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Full text of "Geographical gazetteer of Jefferson county, N.Y., 1685-1890"

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PART FIRST. 



GEOO-KJVI^HIICJ^X. 



GAZETTEER 



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Edited by WILLIAM H. HORTON. 



COMPILED AND PUBLISHED BY 

HAMILTON CHILD, 

"author of gazetteers of WAYNE, ONTARIO, SENECA, CAYUGA, TOMPKINS, 
ONONDAGA, MADISON, CORTLAND, CHEMUNG, SCHUYLER, STEUBEN, OR- 
LEANS, HERKIMER, CHENANGO, NIAGARA, ONEIDA, MONROE, GENESEE, 
SARATOGA, MONTGOMERY AND FULTON, ALBANY AND SCHENEC- 
TADY, RENSSELAER, WASHINGTON, WYOMING. LEWIS, COLUMBIA, 
SULLIVAN, SCHOHARIE, OTSEGO, ULSTER, CHAUTAUQUA., ST. 
LAWRENCE, BROOME AND TIOGA, CATTARAUGUS, ALLE- 
GANY, AND OTHER COUNTIES IN NEW YORK STATE; 
OF ERIE AND CRAWFORD COUNTIES, AND THE BRAD- 
FORE) OIL DISTRICT IN PENNSYLVANIA; OF ALL 
THE COUNTIES IN VERMONT; OF BERKSHIRE 
COUNTY, MASS.; AND OF CHESHIRE AND 
GRAFTON COUNTIES, N. H. 



PERMANENT OFFICE. 



SYRACUSE, N. Y. 



ESTAEI.ISHED 1866. 



" He that hath much to do, will do something wrong, and of that wrong must suffer the 
consequences ; and if it were possible that he should always act rightly, yet when such num- 
bers are to judge of his conduct, the bad u i censure and obstruct him by malevolence, and 
the good sometimes by mistake." — Samuel Johnson. 



SYRACUSE, N. Y.i 

THE SYRACUSE JOURNAL COMPANY, PRINTERS AND BINDERS. 

Julv, 1890. 



INTRODUCTION 



In presenting to the public the Gazetteer and Business Directory of 
Jefferson County we desire to return our sincere thanks to all who have 
kindly aided in obtaining the information it contains. Especially are our 
thanks due the editors and managers of the county papers for the uniform 
kindness they have evinced in calling public attention to our efforts, and for 
essential aid in furnishing material for the work and granting us the use of 
their files ; to various members of the Jefferson County Historical Society for 
aid and encouragement ; to the clergy throughout the county; to the follow- 
ing citizens of Watertown : Luther J. Dorwin, Esq., for his paper on the 
" Bench and Bar " ; Daniel S. Marvin for the papers on " Prehistoric Man " 
and " The Ice Age " ; Moses Eames for various contributions ; Hon. Beman 
Brockway for history of the "Press of Jefferson County"; Andrew W. 
Munk and Mrs. John A. Sherman for valuable contributions on cheesemak- 
ing ; John C. Knowlton for his sketch of the papermaking interests; Col. 
Albert D. Shaw for interesting history connected with the provost-marshal's 
office during the civil war ; Dr. J. Mortimer Crawe for history of the Jeffer- 
son County Medical Society ; T. H. Camp for biographical sketches; Fred 
Seymour for history of the schools of Watertown ; and Prof. R. S. Bosworth 
for biographical work ; to F. E. Wilson, of Rutland, for his article on the 
'•Grange " ; to Leonard G. Peck and the late George Gilbert, of Carthage, for 
various historical papers connected with that village ; to Col. W. B. Camp, of 
Sackets Harbor, for interesting sketches connected with the War of i8r2-i5, 
concerning Madison Barracks, and for several biographical sketches ; to Col. 
Richard I. Dodge and the officers of his staff for courtesies at Madison Bar- 
racks ; to J. M. Cleveland, of Adams, for various papers; to D. A. Dwight, 
of Adams, for history of several churches, and other sketches ; and to many 
others who have rendered valuable assistance. We have also consulted the 
following: Spafford's Gazetteers, published in 1813 and 1824; Hough's 
History of J ejferson Coiintv, 1854; L. H. YjVqxIs &i Co s History of Jefferson 
County, 1878; Report of the Si/perinteiit/ent of Public Instruction, 1889; 
The Thousand Islands of the St. Laiurence, hy Hough, 1880; Geographical 
History of the State of New York, hy Mather and Brockett, 1850; The 
Documentary History of the State of New York; the various government 



INTRODUCTION. 



charts of Lake Ontario and the River St. Lawrence ; the several published 
maps of the county ; the diary of James Mix for historical data of Champion ; 
and various pamphlets and reports of societies, institutions, corporations, 
and villages. 

That errors have occurred in so great a number of names, dates, and state- 
ments is probable, and that names have been omitted which should have 
been inserted is quite certain. We can only say that we have exercised 
more than ordinary diligence and care in this difficult and complicated feature 
of bookmaking. Of such as feel aggrieved in consequence of errors or 
omissions we beg pardon, and ask the indulgence of the reader in noting such 
as have been observed in the subsequent reading of the proofs, and which 
are found corrected in the " Errata" at the close of this volume. 

It was designed to give a brief account of all the churches and other 
societies in the county, but owing in some cases to the negligence of those 
who were able to give the necessary information, and in others to the ina- 
bility of any one to do so, we have been obliged to omit special notices of a 
few. 

We would suggest that our patrons observe and become familiar with the ex- 
planations at the commencement of the Directory, on page 3, Part Second. 
The names it embraces, and the information connected therewith, were ob- 
tained by actual canvass, and are as correct and reliable as the judgment of 
those from whom they were solicited renders possible. Each agent is furnished 
with a map of the town he is expected to canvass, and he is required to pass 
over every road and call at every dwelling and place of business in the town 
in order to obtain the facts from the individuals concerned whenever possible. 
The margins have been left broad to enable any one to note changes 
opposite the names. 

The map inside the back cover will be found, in connection with the 
Directory, very valuable. 

We take this occasion to express the hope that the information found in 
the book will not prove devoid of interest and value, though we are fully con- 
scious that the brief description of the county the scope of the work enables 
lis to give is by no means an exhaustive one, and can only hope that it may 
prove an aid to future historians, who will be better able to do full justice to 
the subject. 

While thanking our patrons and friends generally, for the cordiality with 
whirh our efforts have been seconded, we leave the work to secure that favor 
which earnest endeavor ever wins from a discriminating public, hoping they 
will bear in mind, should errors be noted, that "he who expects a perfect 
work to see, expects what ne'er was, is, nor yet shall be." 



GAZETTEER 



JEFFERSON COUNTY 



JEFFERSON COUNTY once formed a part of the original county of 
Albany, the line of evolution from the latter being as follows : Albany 
County, formed November i, 1683; Tryon, formed from Albany, 
March 12, 1772; Montgomery, changed from Tryon, April 2, 1784; Herki- 
mer, formed from Montgomery, January 16, 1791; Oneida, formed from 
Herkimer, March 15, 1798 ; Jefferson,* formed from Oneida, March 28, 1805. 
A part of the act erecting Jefferson County is as follows: — 

•' Be it enacted by the people of the State of New York, represented in Senate and AsseiiMy, 
That all that part of the county of Oneida, contained within the following bounds, to wit: 
Beginning at the sonthwest corner of the town of EUisbiirgh, on the easterly shore of Lake 
Ontario, and running along the southerly line of said town ; thence along the easterly line 
thereof to the southwest corner of the town of Malta [Lorraine]; tlience along the southerly 
line of the said town of Malta, and continuing the same course to the corner of townships 
number two, three, seven, and eight; thence north along the east line of the town of Malta 
aforesaid to the northeast corner thereof; thence in a dii'ect line to the corner of the towns of 
Butland and Champion ; thence along the line between the said town of Champion and the town 
of Harrisburg to Black River; thence in a direct line to the bounds of the county of St. Law- 
rence, to intersect the same at the corner of townships numbers seven and eleven, in Great 
Tract number three, of Macomb's Purchase; thence along the westerly bounds of the said county 
of St. Lawrence to the north bounds of this state; thence westerly and southerly along said 
liounds, including all the islands in the Eiver St. Lawrence, in Lake Ontario, and in front 
thereof, and within this state to the place of beginning, shall be, and hereby is, erected into a 
separate county, and shall be called and known by the name of Jefferson." 

****** 

'' And be it further enacted, That all that part of township number nine, which is com- 
prised within the bounds of the said countj' of Jefferson, shall be annexed to and become a 
part of the town of Harrison [Rodman], in said county, and that all that part of the said 
township number nine, comprised within the bounds of the said county of Lewis, shall be an- 
nexed to and become a part of the town of Harrisburg, in said county.'" 

Hough's History says: " The relative limits of Jefferson and Lewis counties 
have been three times changed. It will be noticed by reference that the 
present town of Pinckney was then divided by a line that was a continuation 

* Lewis County was formed from Oneida by the same act. 
1* 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



of the west lines of towns 8 and 3, of Boylston's tract ; and that from the line 
between Champion and Denmark, on Black River, the division ran straight 
to St. Lawrence County, where the Une of townships 7 and 11, of tract III., 
touched the county Hne. On February 12, 1808, the whole of No. 9 
(Pinckney) was included in Lewis County. On April 5, 1810, the Hne east 
of the river, beginning as before at the east corner of Champion, ran thence 
to the southwest corner of a lot in 11 west and 21 north ranges, subdivisions 
of No. 5; thence east between 20 and 21 northern ranges, to the southwest 
corner of lot in 10 west, 21 north range ; thence north between 10 and 11, 
to south line of lot No. 4; thence east to lots 808 and 809 ; thence along 
808 and 809 to lot 857 ; thence to southeast corner of 857 and 809, to north- 
east corner of 851; thence west, on line of lots 851 and 850, to the south- 
west corner of 850 ; thence northeast along line of lots to St. Lawrence 
County. The present line between the two counties was established April 2, 
1813, by which this county received considerable accessions from Lewis in the 
town of Wilna." 

Jefferson County is situated in the northern part of the state of New 
York, in an angle formed by the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario, the 
superficial area, according to the latest statistics, being 733,585 acres, equiv- 
alent to 1,146 square miles. It is bounded on the northwest by the St. 
Lawrence River, on the northeast by St. Lawrence County, on the west by 
Lake Ontario, on the south by Oawego County, and on the east by Lewis 
County. The southwest part is marshy, but at a short distance from the 
lake the land rises in gentle undulations, and, farther inland, by abrupt ter- 
races to the highest point, 1,200 feet above the lake, in the town of Worth.* 
A plateau, about 1,000 feet above the lake, spreads out from the summit, 
and extends into Oswego and Lewis counties. An ancient lake beach, 390 
feet above the present level of the lake, may be traced through Ellisburgh, 
Adams, Watertown, and Rutland. North of Black River the surface is gen- 
erally flat or slightly undulating ; in the extreme northeast corner it is broken 
by low ridges parallel to the St. Lawrence. With the exception of a few 
isolated hills no part of the region is as high as the ancient lake ridge men- 
tioned. An isolated hill in Pamelia formerly bore a crop of red cedar ; and, 
as this timber is now only found upon the islands in the lake and in the St. 
Lawrence, it is supposed that the hill was an island at a time when at least 
three-fourths of the country was covered by water. 

* A recent correspondent in the Watertown Times claims the highest point of land in 
Jefferson County to be in the town of Wilna, on the farm of James Harvej', about one 
mile from Carthage village. This peak (which is but a huge rock) is known as Mount 
McQuillan, and is one corner of the Adirondack survey. On the highest portion of the 
rock is a spot chipped out by the surveying party to locate the place. On one side of the 
rock there is a natural well, as round as a barrel and 12 feet deep, which furnishes pure and 
wholesome water. From this well have been taken, in cleaning it, large quantities of small 
stones, such as are found on the lake shores, that had the appearance of having been 
washed by running water for years. 



LAKES AND WATER COURSES. 



The main water features of the county are Ontario Lake and St. Lawrence 
River. The main indentations of the lake are Black River Bay, Chaumont 
Bay, Henderson Bay, and Guffin's Bay. Black River Bay is accounted the 
finest harbor on Lake Ontario, and is surpassed by none on the upper lakes 
for capacity, depth of water, and safety. It is completely land-locked, and, 
including its various ramifications, covers an area of about 60 square miles, 
with depth of water sufficient to float the heaviest vessels. The largest islands 
attached to"Jeffersoa County are Wells, Grindstone, and Carleton in the St. 
Lawrence, and Grenadier, Galloe, and Stony islands in the lake. Besides 
these there are innumerable smaller ones, including several in the mouth of 
Black River, a number in Black River and Chaumont bays, and a portion of 
the archipelago, known as the " Thousand Islands. " Among the most prom- 
inent headlands and capes are Stony Point and Six Town Point, in the town 
of Henderson ; Pillar Point, in Brownville; Point Peninsula and Point Salu- 
brious, in Lyme; and Tibbets Point, in Cape Vincent. 

There are about 20 small lakes in the county, of which 10 are in Theresa 
and Alexandria, two in Henderson, four in EUisburgh, two in Antwerp, and 
one each in Orleans and Pamelia, Champion and Rutland. The largest of 
these is Butterfield Lake, lying between Theresa and Alexandria, which is 
about four miles in length. The other more important ones are Perch Lake 
lying between Orleans and Pamelia, nearly three miles in length, and Pleas- 
ant Lake, in Champion, about two miles long. 

The most important of the interior streams is Black River, which drains 
about one-fourth of the county, passing through a little south of the center. 
Between Carthage, on the east line of the county, and the lake this stream 
falls 480 feet, and is almost a continuous series of rapids, with several cas- 
cades var}ing from two to 15 feet in perpendicular descent. The other prin- 
cipal streams are Indian River, a branch of the Oswegatchie ; Chaumont 
River, flowing into Chaumont Bay ; Perch River, which drains Perch Lake 
and discharges into Black River Bay ; the two branches of Sandy Creek, in 
the south part of the county ; Stony Creek, in Henderson and Adams ; and 
Mill Creek, in Hounsfield, the last four named flowing into Lake Ontario 
south of Black River. These and minor streams will be described more 
fully in the description of towns through which they flow. 

When the settlement of Jefl"erson County began its territory was embraced 
in two towns of Oneida County. All south of Black River was a part of 
Mexico, and all north of the river belonged to I..eyden. The formation of 
Jeff^erson and Lewis counties from Oneida was made necessary by the rapid 
settlement of the country, and the inability of the courts to meet the de- 
mands of justice when their jurisdiction extended over such a vast territory. 
It was at first intended to erect but one new county. Local interests began 
to operate to secure the advantages expected from the location of the public 
buildings. Each section had its advocates. Nathan Sage in Redfield, 
Walter Martin in Martinsburg, Silas Stow and others in Lowville, Moss 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Kent, Noadiah Hubbard, and others in Champion, Henry Coffeen in Wat- 
ertown, and Jacob Brown in Brownville were each intent upon the project 
of a county seat. In case but one county was erected Champion had the 
fairest prospects of success, and indeed such had been the chances, in the 
opinion of several prominent citizens, that they located there. To obtain an 
expression of public opinion on this subject three delegates, chosen at town 
meetings, from each town interested in the question, met at the house of 
Freedom Wright, in Harrisburg (Denmark), November 20, 1804. Many 
went with the intention of voting for one new county only, but strong local 
interests led to the attendance of those who so influenced the voice of the 
delegation that, with but one exception, they decided for t7V0 new counties, 
and the convention united upon recommending the names of the executive 
officers of the federal and state governments, then in office, from whence 
came the names of Jefferson and Lewis from Thomas Jefferson and Morgan 
Lewis, both men of national celebrity. Application was accordingly made to 
the legislature, and on March 4, 1805, Mr. Wright, then in the Assembly, 
from the committee to whom was referred petitions and remonstran- 
ces from the inhabitants of the county of Oneida relative to a division 
thereof, reported " that they had examined the facts stated as to population 
and extent of territory, in said county, and the inconvenience of attending 
county concerns, and find the same to be true." A division was deemed 
necessary, and leave was granted to bring in a bill, which was twice read the 
same day, and passed through the legislature without opposition. * 

Section 5 of the act erecting Jefferson and Lewis counties provided for 
the appointment of three commissioners, " who shall not be resident withm 
the western district of this state, or interested in either of the said counties 
of Jefferson or Lewis, for the purpose of designating the sites for the court- 
houses and gaols, of the said counties respectively, and to that end the said 
commissioners shall as soon as may be, previous to the first day of October 
next, repair to the said counties respectively, and after explormg the same, 
ascertain and designate a fit and proper place in each of the said counties for 
erecting the said buildings." 

The commissioners appointed were Matthew Dorr, David Rogers, and 
John Van Bentheusen. The question of location was not settled without 
the most active efforts being made by Brownville to secure the site ; but the 
balance of settlement was then south of Black River, and the level lands in 
the north part of the county were represented to the commissioners as 
swampy and incapable of settlement. Jacob Brown, finding it impossible to 
secure this advantage to his place, next endeavored to retain it, at least, 
north of Black River, and offered an eligible site in the present town of 
Pamelia; but in this he also failed. The influence of Henry Coffeen is said 
to have been especially strong with the commissioners, although he was 

* Hough's History of Jefferson County. 



PREHISTORIC MAN. 



seconded by others of much ability. The location finally decided upon was 
in Watertown, on the site of the present county jail, then quite a distance 
from the business portion of the village. This, it is said, was to conciliate 
those who had been disappointed in its location. A deed of the premises 
wjs presented by Henry and Amos Cofifeen. 

The first meeting of the board of supervisors of Jefferson County was held 
in the old frame school house, which occupied the site of the present Univer- 
salist Church in Watertown city. The date of this meeting was October i, 
1805, and the following persons constituted the first board: Noadiah Hub- 
bard, of Champion ; Cliff French, of Rutland ; Corlis Hinds, of Watertown ; 
John W. Collins, of Brownville ; Nicholas Salisbury, of Adams ; Thomas 
White, of Harrison (now Rodman); Lyman Ellis, of Ellisburgh; and Asa 
Brown, of Malta (now Lorraine). Noadiah Hubbard was chosen president, 
after which they adjourned the meeting until 3 o'clock p. M., at the house of 
Abijah Putnam. They met according to adjournment and proceeded to 
elect, by ballot, Zelotes Harvey, clerk, and Benjamin Skinner, county treas- 
urer. The latter was required to furnish security in the sum of $5,000 for 
the faithful discharge of his duties, which he did, Jacob Brown becoming his 
bondsman. The session lasted seven days, the entire appropriations amount- 
ing to $723.44- 

The first officers of the county, after its organization, who were appointed 
by the governor and council, were as follows: Henry Coffeen, county clerk ; 
Abel Sherman, sheriff; Benjamin Skinner (appointed by board of super- 
visors), county treasurer; Nathan Williams, district attorney ( 1807) ; Am- 
brose Pease, coroner. 

The following is a full list of members of the board of supervisors of Jef- 
ferson County for i8go, and includes 14 Republicans and 12 Democrats: 
Adams, W. D. Arms ; Alexandria, Fred T. Holmes ; Antwerp, Dr. G. H. 
Wood ; Brownville, Walter Zimmerman ; Cape Vincent, D. L. Fitzgerald ; 
Champion, Wesley Briggs ; Clayton, W. H. Consaul ; Ellisburgh, J. M. 
Thompson; Henderson, A. A.Scott; Hounsfield, J. A. McWayne; Le 
Ray, F. E. Croissant ; Lorraine, C. D. Grimshaw ; Lyme, Eli B. Johnson ; 
Orleans, B. J. Slrough ; Pamelia, E. B. Nicholas ; Philadelphia, R. Oatman ; 
Rodman, W. J. Wyman ; Rutland, Carl H. Frink ; Theresa, George E. Yost ; 
Watertown, B. W. Gifford ; City: ist Ward, R. Holden, Jr. ; 2d Ward, J. 
Atwell, Jr. ; 3d Ward, R. E. Smiley ; 4th Ward, Solon Wilder ; Wilna, 
W. H. Delmore ; Worth, Philip Brennan. 

PREHISTORIC MAN. 

For the following account of the occupancy of this territory, before the 
advent of the white settlers, the publisher is indebted to D. S. Marvin, of 
Watertown, who has devoted much time to the study of aboriginal traces, 
etc., and is probably more competent to deal with the subject than any 
other resident of the county : — 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



During the opening scenes of the historic era the territory of Jefferson 
County was unoccupied by Indians, but held by the Oneidas and Onondagas 
as hunting-grounds ; stealthily visited now and then by the St. Regis, Mas- 
sasauga, and other Canadian tribes for like objects. 

Dr. Hough, in his History published in 1854, mentions and describes some 
20 mostly fortified Indian village sites, situated in all parts of the county. 
Dr. Hough's accounts were mostly taken from Aboriginal Moniuneiits of 
New York, by E. G. Squier, Smithsonian contributions. Record is also made 
in the 3d vol. of Documentary History of New York of others visited and 
described in 1802 by an early itinerant missionary. But our most exact 
knowledge comes from explorations since made of the remains that lie buried 
in the soils of the county. These show that the territory had been occupied 
by Indians for considerable but unknown periods of time, anterior to the 
discovery of America. The territory of the county was ceded in 1788 to the 
state, by the Oneidas, excepting some small individual grants. The document 
was called a treaty, but it was really a deed. One fact in this connection, 
bearing much significance as to Indian polity, has heretofore escaped com- 
ment. It is this: there are the signatures of four women attached to the 
instrument with those of the chiefs of the nation. This makes it evident that 
the Oneidas had already emerged from the stage of savageism and advanced 
to the middle stages of barbarism, for in the former or savage stage inheri- 
tance is entirely in the female line. Here we see the chiefs and females are 
associated to convey the title. Rights of hunting and fishing in the ceded 
territory were reserved by the Oneidas, and this right was maintained until 
the county was settled with whites by the Macomb purchase and its grantees, 
Le Ray de Chaumont, and others. 

The descriptions of Indian remains given by the authors referred to, and 
others, like all accounts of early times, are no doubt in the main founded 
upon facts ; but the immense size of some of the skeletons, the rows of double 
teeth of the warriors, the remains of giants that lie buried in the soils of the 
county, seem more or less mythical; no such remains are now found. Some 
years ago Drs. E. W. and F. G, Trowbridge, of Watertown, exhumed some 
15 or more skeletons near Apling postoffice, on the old Talcott farm in 
Adams, one of the places described by Dr. Hough, and a typical forti- 
fied village site, where the lines of entrenchments made by the Indians 
in defending themselves against their enemies may still be clearly traced. 
These skeletons were the remains of men, women, and children, and instead of 
showing the giants of prehistoric times, they were of less robust habit and 
averaged smaller size than those of the Five Nations, and the generally faintly 
traced muscle attachments show inferior muscular development, and the 
whole osteology people of small stature. Their similar manner of entrench- 
ing for defensive purposes evinces that the other sites were constructed and 
occupied by the same tribe, at the same dates, and under like conditions. 
The considerable amounts of burned corn, both upon the sites occupied 



PREHISTORIC MAN. 



and in some of the graves, show them to have been to some extent an agri- 
cultural tribe. For the purposes of easy tillage all these villages were located 
upon sand-covered moraines, and other easily wrought soils. Considering 
the rude stone tools, with which they were constructed, many years of labor 
must have been expended upon these lines of defense ; much strategical 
skill is displayed in locating the entrenchments, the lay of the ground was 
well studied, and advantage taken of the situation wherever natural defen- 
sive objects could be utilized, such as steep slopes, hills, rocks, and shores of 
streams. The shapes are not regular, but the result of local conditions ; 
some have but one side entrenched, others have double lines, and the one on 
Black River Bay, located upon an open plateau, was round, and had double 
lines of entrenchments, with a lunette towards the water. Access to water was 
never left unstudied. 





Their stone hoes and other agricultural implements evince skill and adap- 
tation^to the wants demanded ; stone gouges for tapping maple trees and 
making sugar were common. This seems to have been quite a feature of 
their domestic economies. Their war-like implements seem to have been 
much less considered and elaborate than among the Iroquois, but the two 
have sometimes been so intermingled that we cannot now always be certain 
of which is local and which Iroquian. Many of their domestic utensils were 
made of pottery, and broken pottery is a distinguishing feature of all these 
village sites. A careful examination shows that this pottery was much used 
for cooking utensils, boiling sap, etc., by throwing in heated stones. The 
blackened inner surfaces still show charred food clinging to the broken frag- 
ments. Some of these vessels seem to have been of considerable size. 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Pipes made of clay, of which figures i, 2, and 3 are typical styles, were a 
distinguishing feature; those of conventionalized animal forms were common. 
A few steatite and slate pipes, of fanciful and massive structure, have been 
found, but their scarcity suggests that they were from other tribes. Tobacco 
v/as much cultivated to fill these numerous pipes. 

The debris accumulating around these ancient encampments has been 
found several feet thick, and there can be distinguished several different 
layers, showing interruptions in their occupation. In the lower layers the 
bones are very rotten ; soon crumbling to pieces upon exposure to the air. 
In the upper layers some of the bone implements, consisting of spear points, 
bodkins, awls, and others of deer's horns, seem as fresh as if made and used 
at the present day. Much more use was made of bone and horn utensils 
and implements than among tribes where chert and flint is more common in 
the rocks. The stone hatchets seem more battered and broken than among 
the Iroquois. 

At Perch Lake, which seems to have been a favorite 
fishing station, there are two kinds of so-called mounds, 
one generally upon the islands, of small size and flat 
top, the other upon the ridges, or lateral moraines of 
the shores, the latter consisting of raised circles with 
dish-shaped centers, from one to two rods across and 
three or four feet high, 
some of the circles over- 
lapping, perhaps hinting 
of the practice of polyg- 
amy; for, beyond a doubt, fig. 3- 

these are the remains of an earlier form of Indian dweUings in use before the 
square house of the Iroquois had been devised. The same form is still in use 
among the Digger Indians of California, and others ofour less advanced tribes. 

The same form and style of houses is hinted by the circles of toad-stools, 
growing from buried organic matter, upon the once strongly fortified mound, 
also spoken of by Squier and Hough, on the Gragg farm near the hamlet of 
Burrville. But it seems probable that this earlier form of dwelling was super- 
seded by the later square house of the Iroquois, built mostly of wood and 
partly above ground, without chimneys, except a hole in the roof for exit of 
smoke, and as many, but partly separated, copartments as there were fam- 
ilies to be accommodated, for there now remains none of the circles around 
the sites of other villages. Chimneys were entirely unknown to the Indians; 
indeed, they did not come into general use in civilized European states until 
the fourteenth century. 

That the square house was a stage of evolutionary progress is made evi- 
dent by a survey of the condition of the Iroquois. Whether the Indians were 
autochthonous or not would carry the discussionjbeyond the scope of the pres- 
ent inquiry. Judging from a careful survey of the facts it is evident that 




GEOLOGY. 



13 



Indians had inhabited the territory under consideration from one to two 
thousand years. There were certainly no so-called mound builders here. 
But the remains show clearly that the tribe inhabiting the county ivas forced 
to defend themselves against some enemy. The local conditions seem to sug- 
gest that the tribe here was the Massasugas, or some contiguous Adirondack 
or Canadian Indians, and were drhen from the county by the more progres- 
sive and powerful Iroquois, who had already advanced so far as to under- 
stand the value of combination and concert of action in war, and this is what 
is termed advancement from savage to barbarian life. Whether the square 
house was used by the tribe probably driven away is a question that cannot 
now be answered; the older round or dirt house, being much more deeply set, 
left a more lasting impression upon the soil. It is a notable fact that Lewis 
and Clark -found the same style of square house in use in 1805 among the 
Oregon Indians, and on the Pacific, showing that the confederated and power- 
ful Iroquois were not the only tribes that had advanced by natural laws from a 
lower to a stage of development before the historic period came in. 

There may have been occasional giants among the Indians, for they ap- 
pear among both ancient and modern nations occasionally, but afe more 
common in modern than ancient times, — a natural result of civilization in 
ameliorating the conditions for development. 

The Oneidas, who sometimes spent their summers here in hunting, were 
perhaps the most friendly to the whites, also the most progressive tribe of 
the Iroquian confederacy. Indeed the whole Six Nations had developed so 
far as to comprehend and adopt the advantages of strong combinations, 
thereby placing themselves upon a higher plane than other tribes outside 
of their confederacy, who showed less capacity for such development and 
combination. This is made evident when we consider the territory and 
tribes they had conquered and made tributary to themselves before the set- 
tlement of the country by white men. Their sway already extended beyond 
the lakes and St. Lawrence, westward to the Mississippi, southward to 
Georgia, eastward to the Hudson and ocean. But unfortunately for the con- 
federation the clash of arms caused by the conquests of the whites resulted 
in arrest of progress, if not in actual revertion, and their tenacious retention 
of the old tribal laws and relations now retards and prevents civilization. 

GEOLOGY. 

Geology is that branch of natural science which treats of the structure of 
the crust of the earth and the mode of formation of its rocks, together with 
the history of physical changes and of life on our planet during the succes- 
sive stages of its history. It depends upon mineralogy for its knowledge of 
the constituent rocks, and upon chemistry and physics for its knowledge of 
the laws of change ; and in its study of fossil remains it is closely connected 
^with the science of zoology and botany. A knowledge of geology lies at the 



14 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



base of physical geography, and is essential to the skillful prosecution of 
mining and other useful arts. 

The geological history of the earth is ascertained by a study of the succes- 
sive beds of rock which have been deposited on its surface, and of the masses- 
which have been forced up in a liquid state from within its crust, together 
with the fossil remains of animals and plants which certain of the beds con- 
tain. As thus established, it is usually divided into four great periods, the 
names of which are taken from the progress of animal life, as this at present 
affords one of the best criteria for geological classification. They are : I., 
the Eozoic, or "period of the dawn of life " ; II., the Paleozoic, or " period 
of ancient life " ; III., the Mesozoic, or " middle period of life " ; and IV., 
the Neozoic, or " recent period of life." 

Each of these admits of subdivisions, which may stand as follows, beginning 
with the oldest: Eozoic — Laurentian and Huronian ; Paleozoic — Cambrian 
or Primodial, Siluro Cambrian, Silurian, Devonian, Carboniferous, and Per- 
mian ; Mesozoic — Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous ; Neozoic — Eocene, 
Miocene, Pliocene, Post-pliocene, and Recent. 

In the oldest condition of the earth, shown by the most ancient of the rock 
formations above referred to, its surface was covered with water more gen- 
erally than at present, and sediments were then, as now, being deposited in 
the waters. The earth must, however, have an earlier history than this,, 
though not represented by distinct geological monuments. This primitive 
condition of the earth is a subject of inference and speculation rather than 
of actual knowledge ; still, we may begin with a consideration of a fact bear- 
ing upon questions which has long excited attention. It is the observed in- 
crease of temperature in descending into deep mines and in the water of 
deep artesian wells — an increase which may be stated in round numbers at 
one degree of heat of the centrigrade scale for every loo feet of depth from 
the surface. These observations apply, of course, to a very considerable 
depth, and we have no certainty that this rate continues for any great 
distance toward the center of the earth. If, however, we regard it as indi- 
cating the actual law of increase of temperature it would result that the 
whole crust of the earth is a mere shell covering a molten mass of rocky 
matter. Thus a very slight exercise of imagination would carry us back to 
a time when this slender crust had not yet been formed, and the earth rolled 
through space an incandescent globe, with all its water and other vaporizable 
matters in a gaseous state. Astronomical calculation has, however, shown 
that the earth, in its relation to other heavenly bodies, obeys the laws of a 
riged ball, and not of a fluid globe. Hence it has been inferred that its 
iactual crust is very thick, perhaps not less than 2,500 miles, and that its fluid 
portion must therefore be of smaller dimensions than has been inferred from 
the observed increase of temperature. Further, it seems to have been 
rendered probable, from the density of rock matter in the solid and liquid 
states, that a molten globe would solidify at the center as well as at the sur- 



GEOLOGY. 15 



face, and consequently that the earth must not only have a solid crust of 
great thickness, but also a solid nucleus, and that any liquid portions must 
be a sheet or detached masses intervening between these. Still this would 
merely go to show that the earth has advanced far toward the entire loss of 
its original heat. Other considerations, based on the form of the earth and 
the distribution of variances, lead to similar conclusions. It must be 
observed, however, that there are good reasons for the belief that the products 
of volcanoes arise chiefly from the fusion of portions of the stratified crusts. 
Such considerations, however, lead to the conclusion that the former watery 
condition of our planet was not its first state, and that we must trace it back 
to a previous reign of fire. The reasons which can be adduced in support of 
this are no doubt somewhat vague, and may in their details be variously in- 
terpreted, but at present we have no other interpretation to give of that chaos, 
formless and-void, that state in which " nor aught nor naught existed," which 
the sacred writings and the traditions of ancient nations concur with modern 
science in indicating as the primitive state of the earth. 

In the Eozoic time we have actual monuments to study. The Laurentian 
rocks, more especially, occupy a very wide space in the northern part of 
America. These rocks stretch along the north side of the St. Lawrence 
River from Labrador to Lake Superior, and thence northwardly to an un- 
known distance. In the Old World the rocks of this age do not appear so ex- 
tensively, although they have been recognized in Norway and Sweden, in the 
Hebrides, and in Bohemia. Geologists long looked in vain for evidences of 
life in the Laurentian period, but its probable existence was inferred from 
such considerations as the abundance of carbon, limestone, iron, etc. — mate- 
rials known to be accumulated in the newer formations by the agency of life. 
In addition to the inferential evidence, however, one well- marked animal 
fossil has been found in the Laurentian of Canada — Eozoon Canadense, a 
gigantic representation of one of the lowest forms of animal life, that of the 
Protozoa, and a type still extant in the ocean, and remarkable for its power 
of collecting and secreting calcareous matter. 

The following pertaining to the geological structure of Jefi"erson County is 
condensed from Dr. Hough's excellent chapter on that subject published in 
his History of Jefferson County, in 1854 : — 

Geologists divide rocks into two great cldisses, />rin/ary and sedimentary or 
secondary ; the first, from their crystalline character and mode of occurrence, 
often exhibit evidences of having been subjected to the agency of heat, 
while the latter appear made up of materials derived from the former, broken 
up and deposited in water, and usually contain fossil remains of animals and 
plants, that lived at the period of their formation. Both primary and second- 
ary rocks occur in Jefferson County; the former of which, with the dividing 
line between them, affords only rational prospects of valuable metallic veins 
and deposits, as well as most of the crystalline minerals. Of the latter we are 
not without localities that vie with the most noted, and the primitive region of 



1 6 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



the county will abundantly repay the labor of nnineral collection. The rock 
constituting the primary is mainly composed of gneiss ; a mixture of quartz, 

feldspar, and mica, which are regarded as elementary or simple minerals, and 
make up by far the largest part of what is known of the earth's surface. In 

_gfieiss these usually occur in irregular strata, often contorted, never horizon- 
tal, and seldom continuing of uniform thickness more than a few feet. It 
forms by far the largest part of the surface rock throughout the great north- 
ern forest of New York, embracing nearly the whole of Hamilton, and a part 
of Lewis, Herkimer, Fulton, Saratoga, Warren, Essex, Clinton, Franklin, and 
St. Lawrence counties, and in Jefferson this rock constitutes the greater part 
of the islands in the St. Lawrence, between French Creek and Morristown, 
and appears in Clayton, Orleans, and Alexandria on the river bank; in the 
latter town it extends back a mile or two from the shore. It forms a strip 
extending up both sides of Indian River to Theresa village, and the shores 
and islands of most of the lakes of that town and Antwerp, and much of the 
country within the node of Indian River, towards the village of Philadel- 
phia, where it forms the surface rock and extends to Antwerp, the greater part 
of which it underlies. From this town it extends along Indian River to the 
village of Natural Bridge, and thence to Carthage, where it forms the islands 
among the rapids of the Long Falls, and thence follows up the river, keeping 
a little west of its channel, through Lewis and Oneida counties. In this area 
there are occasional ledges of white or primary limestone, especially in Ant- 
werp, with limited quantities of serpentine, and superficial patches of sand- 
stone. 

Lying next above the primitive, and forming a considerable amount of sur- 
face rock, in Alexandria, Theresa, Clayton, Orleans, and Antwerp, is the 
Potsdam satidstone, so named from the fine manner in which it is developed 
in that town. It is the oldest of sedimentary rocks, and contains (but rarely) 
the forms of organic bodies that were created at the dawn of the vital prin- 
ciple. Two genera, one a plant, the other a shell, have been found in this 
rock, but so rarely that it may be almost said to be without fossils. Its prin- 
cipal constituent is silex, in the form of sand, firmly consolidated, and form- 
ing, where it can be cleaved into blocks of regular shape and uniform size, 
a most elegant and durable building material. 

In the vicinity of Theresa, Redwood, etc., there occurs in numerous places 
in this rock the cylindrical structure, common at many localities in St. Law- 
rence County, and apparently produced by eddies acting upon the sands at 
the bottom of the shallow water. This formation is generally in thick masses, 
often disturbed by upheavals, almost invariably inclined from the horizontal, 
and seldom in this county so evenly stratified as to admit of that uniformity 
of fracture that gives value to it as a building material at Potsdam, Malone, 
€tc. It is, however, extensively used for this purpose, and forms a cheap and 
durable, but not an elegant, wall. This rock has two applications in the use- 
ful arts, of great importance — the lining of blast furnaces, and the manu- 



GEOLOGY. 1 Y 

facture of glass. The quarry that has been most used for lining stone is in 
Antwerp, where the rock occurs highly inclined, but capable of being divided 
into blocks of uniform texture and any desirable size. The edges of the stone, 
when laid in the furnace, are exposed to the fire, and become slightly fused,^ 
forming a glazing to the surface. For the manufacture of glass the stone is 
calcined in kilns and crushed and sifted, when it affords a sand of much 
whiteness, and eminently suitable for the purpose. 

This rock is generally overlaid by a fertile soil, but this is more due to the 
accidental deposition of drift than the disintegration of the rock itself, for 
such is its permanence that it can scarcely be found to have yielded to the 
destructive agencies that have covered many other rocks with soil. The 
polished and scratched surfaces given by diluvial attrition are almost uni- 
formly preserved, and wherever this formation appears at the surface it pre- 
sents a hardness and sharpness of outline strongly indicative of its capacity 
to resist decay. A very peculiar feature is presented by the margin of this 
rock, which, by the practiced eye, may be detected at a distance, and which 
strongly distinguishes it from all others. The outline is generally an abrupt 
escarpment, sometimes extending with much regularity for miles, occasionally 
broken by broad, ragged ravines, or existing as outstanding insular masses, and 
always presenting, along the foot of the precipice, huge masses of rock that 
have fallen from above. The most remarkable terrace of this kind begins on 
the north shore of Black Lake, in Morristown, and extends through Hammond 
into Alexandria, much of the distance near the line of the Military road, and 
other instances are common throughout the region underlaid by this rock. 

Next in the ascending series is a rock which, in this part of the state, con- 
stitutes a thin but level formation, and from its being a sandy limestone has 
been named a calciferoiis sandstone. This rock appears as the surface rock 
between Antwerp and Carthage; between the Checkered House, in Wilna,. 
and Natural Bridge; between Antwerp and Sterlingville ; and in Theresa,. 
Alexandria, Orleans, and Clayton. In many places it is filled with fossils,, 
and is valueless as a building material. 

Next above this rock is the chazy limestone, that occurs highly developed, 
and abounding in organic remains, but, according to Professor Emmons, does 
not appear in the Black River valley. The next rock there is the Birds-Eye 
limestone, which includes the close-grained, hard, and thick-bedded strata,^ 
in which the layers of water limestone occur in Le Ray, Pamelia, Orleans, 
Brownville, and Clayton. Its color is usually bluish and light gray, weather- 
ing to an ashen gray ; its fracture is more or less flinty, with many crystalline 
points; and its fossils few and seldom obtained except on the weathered sur- 
face. Its characteristic fossil, in the manner in which its verticle stems divide 
and interlace with each other, presents features totally distinct from any 
known analogy, either in marine plants or the zoophiles. These stems are 
filled with crystalline matter and often make up a great part of its 
mass. When polished this rock presents an appearance which has given it 



1 8 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



the name, and in quarrying it readily breaks into regular masses. This forms 
the surface rock over a considerable extent of Cape Vincent, Lyme, Brown- 
ville, Pamelia, Le Ray, and Wilna. The part that overlies the yellowish 
water lime strata abounds in nodules of flint that everywhere stand in relief 
upon the weathered surface. These are thought to be the fossil remains of 
sponges, or other form of animal life, analogous. These masses of flint often 
contain shells, corals, crinoidea, and obscure traces of other organic bodies. 

The Black Eiver limestofie, in the classification of Professor Hall, (the Isle 
La Motte marble of Prof. Emmons,) is interposed between the rock last 
named and the Trentoti limestone. It is a well defined mass of grayish-blue 
limestone, in this county not exceeding lo feet in thickness, but in its fossils 
clearly distinct from the strata above and below it. Five genera and six 
species of corals, and five genera and lo species of cephalopoda, are de- 
scribed in the State Paleontology, as occurring in this rock. It is this forma- 
tion that contains the caverns of Watertown, Pamelia, and Brownville, 
concerning which many fabulous accounts have been told.* 

It is to be observed of the strata that intervene between the water lime 
and the Trenton limesto?ie that from their soluble nature the natural seams 
have generally been widened into open chasms, and that from this cause 
streams of water often find their way under ground in dry seasons. Although 
generally horizontal the strata are occasionally disturbed by upheavals, as is 
seen at several places along the line of the railroad between Chaumont and 
Cape Vincent. 

The next rock above those described is named the Trenton limestone^ 
which mostly constitutes the rock underlying the soil in Champion, Rutland, 
Watertown, Hounsfield, Henderson, Ellisburgh, Adams, and a part of Rod- 
man and Brownville. In extent, thickness, number of fossil remains, and 
economical importance it far surpasses the others. It underlies extensive 
districts in the Western sta,tes, where it is recognized by its characteristic 
fossils. Its color is usually gray, and its fracture more or less crystalline, 
occurring usually m strata nearly or quite horizontal, and often separated by 
thin layers of shale. Many of its fossils are common with the slates above. 

Fossil plants of the lower orders are somewhat common, but are limited 
to a few species. Of corals the number is greater; 20 diff'erent species 
of zoophiles are found in this rock. Of that singular class of animals called 
trilobites, of which there are at present but few living analogies, the Trenton 
limestone furnishes several species. Of shells this rock affords a very great 
variety. Its stratification is generally nearly horizontal, and disturbances, 
when they occur, are usually quite limited. In some places it contains veins 
of calcite, and of heavy spar, the latter, in Adams, being associated with 
fluor-spar. 



* Yor an excellent description of these caverns see Hough's History of Jefferson 
County, pp. 536-538. 



TOPOGRAPHY AND SOIL. 19 



Resting upon the Trenton limestone, with which, in the bed of Sandy Creek, 
in Rodman, it is seen in contact, is a soft black slate, readily crumbling to 
■fragments under the action of frost, and divided by verticle parallel seams 
into regular masses. From its appearance in the hills north of Ulica it has 
been called Utica slate. It has not been found applicable to any useful pur- 
pose, although experiments have been made to test its value as a lithic paint. 
Where sulphuret of iron could be procured the manufacture of alum might 
be attempted with prospect of success. Fossils are common, but less nu- 
merous in this rock than in those below it. Several of these are common in 
the rocks above and below this. Only one species of trilobite is found, 
though they occur both above and below it. 

Sulphur springs are of frequent occurrence in this rock, and native sulphur 
is sometimes noticed incrusting the surfaces in ravines, where waters, charged 
with sulphuretted hydrogen, have been exposed to vegetable action. 

Covering this formation, and constituting the superficial rock of Lorraine. 
Worth, and a part of Rodman, is a series consisting of alternating layers of 
shale and slate, some of which are highly fossiliferous and others entirely des- 
titute of organic remains. From the remarkable development of this rock 
in Lorraine it has received the name of Lorraifie shales. For a similar rea- 
son it is known elsewhere as the Hudson River group, from its forming the 
highly inclined shales that occur, of enormous thickness, in the valley of the 
Hudson. This rock is nearly worthless for any useful purpose, although at 
Pulaski and elsewhere layers are found that are adapted for building. The 
mineral springs of Saratoga arise from this rock. Having thus briefly enu- 
merated the leading geological features of the county some generalizations 
of the several rocky formations may be made. 

TOPOGRAPHY AND SOIL. 

To one accustomed to close and careful observation the features of a 
country and the contour of its hills afford a reliable means of opinion on the 
character of the subjacent rock. There pertains to each of these in this 
■county a pecuHarity of profile, when exposed on the brow of hills, that is as 
constant and as unmistakable as any class of phenomena offered to the ob- 
servation of geologists ; and these distinctive features arise from the greater 
or less facility with which the several rocks yield to disintegrating forces. 
The shales and slates being easily decomposed, and offering little resistance 
to the action of running water, present a rounded outline ; running streams 
have here worn deep, winding gulfs, through which the channels meander, 
washing alternately the right bank and the left, affording a succession of 
crumbling precipices, often of romantic beauty, and spreading over the plains, 
where they issue from the hills, the broken materials brought down from the 
ravines. The rock is everywhere covered with soil, derived from its own dis- 
integration, and is inclined to clay, from which cause, when level, there is a 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



tendency to the formation of swamps, from the impermeable character of this 
material. The soil is generally fertile, and especially adapted to grazing. 
Wherever diluvial action has existed it has worn, with little difficulty, broad 
valleys and removed immense quantities of the detritus to other places. 

These shales form a ridge of highlands, extending from this county, through 
Oswego, Lewis, Oneida, and Herkimer counties, being known in Lewis as 
Tug Hill. The margin of this elevated tract is worn into deep ravines, but 
when the head of these is reached the country becomes level and sometimes 
swampy. 

The limestone occurs in terraces, with steep but not precipitous margins, 
the whole of which is covered with a soil derived from its own decorJ> position 
where not protected by drift. The soil is inclined to be thin, and conse- 
quently liable to be affected with drouth, but is extremely fertile, and alike 
adapted to grass and grain. The richest and best portions of Jefferson 
County, if not in the state, are underlaid by this rock. Running streams, 
when small, do not wear ravines, but fall down the slope of the terraces in 
pretty cascades, broken into foam, and noisy from the numerous points of 
resistance which they meet. The Burrville cascades, in the southwest border 
of the town of Rutland, are among the most romantic and picturesque which 
the county affords. 

The calciferous sandstone presents a flat country, with few valleys, and 
those but a few feet below the level of the adjacent plains. The rock is 
covered with a very thin soil, derived from its own decomposition, but one of 
much richness, from the presence of lime. It seldom descends by a gentle 
slope into the valleys, but presents a shelving ledge, very peculiar to this rock, 
in this section of the state. 

The Potsdam sandstone generally presents a level surface, but more liable 
to upheavals, and is covered with soil entirely brought from other formations, 
and varies in quality with sources from which it has been derived. This rock 
never presents a fertile slope into the valleys, but is bordered with abrupt 
precipices, at the foot of which are piled huge masses that have tumbled from 
the face of the ledge. 

The primitive rocks of the county present a constant succession of abrupt, 
rounded edges, scantily covered in a state of nature with timber, and, when 
cleared, with a thin soil, with intervening valleys of considerable fertility, that 
have received their soil from the wash of the hills. The nature and amount 
of soil varies with the rock, and is abundant and fertile where limestone and 
feldspar abound as its constituents, but much less so where the chief element 
is quartz. The fact is observable that the south slope of the hills is more 
abrupt than the north, as if they had been more upheaved. 

Drift deposits occur promiscuously over rocks of every age, and when oc- 
curring in hills present that rounded and conical outline often seen in snow- 
drifts. These deposits may be distinguished from soil underlaid by rock by 
the endless variety of rounded outline which they present, and are invariably 



MINERAL LOCALITIES. 



covered by vegetation. Several remarkable valleys occur in the county 
that must be attributed to causes that have long since ceased to operate. 
That of Rutland Hollow, parallel with Black River, continues across the towns 
of Watertown, Hounsfield, and Henderson, by way of Smithville, to the lake, 
having both its sides covered with Trenton limestone. It is considered by 
some authorities to be one of the abandoned beds of Black River. Evidences 
of the drift period are prominent in this valley, the surface of the rock often 
presenting a polished and grooved appearance, and at no locaHty is this more 
wonderfully shown than at the railroad bridge below Watertown village. The 
grooves are here widened and deepened into troughs, that obliquely cross 
the bed ^f the river, having their surfaces polished and scratched, showing 
that the rock was then as firm and unyielding as now. 

MINERAL LOCALITIES. 

Anthracite has been observed in minute quantities in the Trenton lime- 
stone at Watertown, and also in the Utica slate in the southwestern border 
of the county. Apatite (phosphate of lime) is found in small crystals near 
Ox Bow, in massive form on Butterfield Lake, and near Grass Lake in 
Theresa. Azurite (blue carb. copper) is found on an island in Muskallonge 
Lake, in Theresa. Calcite (carbonate of lime) occurs at Ox Bow and on the 
banks of Vrooman Lake. Tufa is found in a few limestone springs, and 
agaric mineral abounds in the caves on the north side of the river in Water- 
town. Marl occurs in Pleasant Lake, and satin-spar near Ox Bow, not far 
from Pulpit Rock. Celestine (sulphate of strontia) is said to occur in Trenton 
limestone. C/ialcodite, a very rare mineral, is frequently obtained at the 
Sterling iron mine in Antwerp. Chondrodite has also been observed in Ant- 
werp. Chlorite has been detected in bowlders, but is not common. Copper 
pyrites has been found in Antwerp, adjacent to Vrooman Lake and near the 
Ox Bow, and also about three miles from Natural Bridge, in Wilna. Dolo- 
mite occurs in white limestone. Pearl-spar is found at Ox Bow, coating crys- 
tals of calcite. Epidote is of frequent occurrence in bowlders of greenstone. 
It has not been found in its original situation in this county. Feldspar 
(orthoclase), besides forming a common ingredient in gneiss, often occurs 
highly crystallized, in Antwerp and Theresa, near Grass Lake, etc. Fluor spar 
occurs on the east bank of Muskallonge Lake, in Theresa, and is one of the 
most remarkable localities of this mineral in the state. Graphite (black lead) 
occurs in mmute scales, to a small extent, in the white limestone of Ant- 
werp. Heavy -spar IS found on Pillar Point, in Brownville, on the shore facing 
Chaumont Bay and Cherry Island, in a vein of Trenton limestone, and in 
Antwerp, about a mile east from the Ox Box, in a vein of white limestone. 
It also occurs in Theresa, on the banks of Muskallonge Lake, and in Adams. 

Hornblende, of the tremolite variety, is found in bowlders of white lime- 
stone, and occasionally in small quantities in Antwerp and in Wilna, near 

2* 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Natural Bridge. Amphibole (basoltic hornblende) is found in bowlders in 
crystals, firmly imbedded in trap and greenstone. Dillage is rarely found in 
bowlders of chloritic slate. Pargasite, in beautiful green crystals, occurs in 
white limestone at numerous localities near Ox Bow, and in a neighborhood 
known as New Connecticut, in Antwerp. Amianthos and asbestos are 
found in minute quantities in bowlders of serpentine. The latter also occurs 
near Theresa village. Tdocrase, in small brown crystals, occurs occasionally 
on the banks of Vrooman Lake, near Ox Bow. It has been found in larger 
■crystals in bowlders in Antwerp. Iron pyrites (sulphuret of iron) occurs in 
Antwerp, Wilna, Theresa, and Alexandria. Labradorite (opalescent feldspar) 
is occasionally found in bowlders. Limonite, or bog iron, is common in the 
swamps in Wilna. Ochre occurs in Champion and other towns in small 
quantities. Magnetite, or magnetic iron ore, has been found in Alexandria. 
Malachite (green carbonate of copper) is found investing other minerals at 
Muskallonge Lake, Theresa. Millerite (sulphuret of nickel) occurs at the 
Sterling iron mine, in Antwerp, in delicate needle-shaped prisms, in cavities 
of iron ore, associated with spathic iron, chalcodite, and iron pyrites. Mus- 
covite (mica) occurs rarely in bowlders of granite. 

Phlogopite. — This mica occurs frequently in the white limestone, but not 
in sufficient quantity or in plaits of a size that give it value. It is found on 
an island in Mill Seat Lake, in small quantities, and at a few localities near 
Ox Bow. At Vrooman Lake a highly crystallized variety occurs, in which 
sharply-defined prisms and groupes of crystals are found in great abundance. 
Pyroxene is common in our primitive rocks. On Grass Lake, in Theresa, 
it is found white and crystallized, in groupes. Near Ox Bow it has been 
found in small quantities, and near Natural Bridge in large black crystals, 
with sphene, etc. Coccolite occurs in the same vicinity. Quartz, while form- 
ing the greater portion of primary rock, and almost the sole material of 
sandstone, is rarely found crystallized. On Butterfield Lake, and at several 
localities in Antwerp, it is found in crystals. At Natural Bridge chalcedony 
occurs in nodules in white limestone. Flint is a common associate of the 
Black River limestone. Agate in small quantities is found in Wilna, near 
Natural Bridge. Jasper and basanite are very rarely found as pebbles in 
the drift formations. Scapolite in detached crystals is rarely found, imbed- 
ded in white limestone, in Antwerp. Adjacent to, and perhaps within, the 
town of Wilna, near Natural Bridge, the variety Nuttallite, in fused crystals 
of a pearl gray color, occurs with pyroxene and sphene. It is sometimes 
massive and admits of cleavage. Serpentine is of frequent occurrence in 
nodules, in white limestone, in Antwerp, but it is far less abundant than in 
St. Lawrence County. It is various shades of green, and its weathered sur- 
face becomes white. A mmeral allied to this, and named by Prof. Emmons 
Rensselaerite, but by other authors steatitic pseudomorph, occurs in great 
abundance in Antwerp and Theresa, where it assumes various colors varying 
from white, through gray, to black, and a texture from finely granular to 



THE ICE AGE. 



23 



coarsely crystalline and cleavable. An extensive locality of the jet black and 
fine-grained variety occurs on Butterfield Lake. 

Specular Iron. — The red oxide of iron constitutes the principal ore of this 
metal in Antwerp, Philadelphia, and Theresa, and may be said to be the prin- 
cipal ore of Northern New York. It is invariably associated with brittle, va- 
riegated mineral, which has been named dysyntribiie, but which recent anal- 
yses indicate to be a rock of indefinite composition, closely related to agal- 
raatolite, and varying much in its proportions of alumina, magnesia, lime, 
and the alkalies. In some form or other this mineral is associated with the 
ore in every locality where the latter has been noticed in this county, as if it 
were a necessary associate. Beside this nondescript mineral specular ore is 
associated with calcite, spathic iron, chalcodite, quartz, Millerite, and, more 
rarely, heavy-spar. In Theresa this ore was procured during the working of 
the furnace near Redwood, and has been found on an island in Muskallonge 
Lake. In the edge of Philadelphia, adjoining Theresa, there occurs a body 
of specular iron ore between the gneiss and Potsdam sandstone. When 
wrought alone it makes an iron known to founders as cold short, and from its 
mixture with lime is found to be very useful as a flux in assisting in the 
reduction of other ores. The mines which have been wrought with most 
profit in Northern New York are those in the southwest corner of Gouverneur 
and adjacent in Rossie. In this same range, in Antwerp, a deposit of iron 
ore was discovered in 1837, and was developed and wrought by George Par- 
ish. Adjacent to, and forming a part of this, is the Thompson mine. Ster- 
ling mine, in Antwerp, was discovered in 1836, its location being in the same 
range and geological relation as the last. There are seven or eight mines in 
a range, including those in Philadelphia, apparently coeval in age and pro- 
duced by a common cause. About two miles from Ox Bow, in Antwerp, 
occurs the Weeks ore bed, once owned by George Parish. 

Sphene (scilecio-calcareous oxide of titanium) is found in white limestone 
with pargasite, in Antwerp, near Ox Bow, and near Natural Bridge. Spinel, 
of a pale red color, has been observed in crystals at Vrooman Lake, near 
Ox Bow, and four miles from that place towards Theresa. Talc occurs in 
small quantities in bowlders. Tourmaline is occasionally found in gneiss in 
Antwerp and Theresa. Wad (earthy manganese) has been noticed in 
swamps in Watertown and elsewhere. Wollastonite (tabular spar) occurs 
with augite and coccolite at Natural Bridge. Delicate fibrous varieties have 
been found in bowlders in Wilna. 

THE ICE AGE.* 

It will be seen by an examination of the cut of the stratagraphical geology 
on another page that the strata of the rocks of various ages, from the azoic to 
the Hudson River, inclusive, are found in the county; but of course the cut can- 



* Furnished by D. S. Marvin, of Watertown. 



24 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



not show the fact that the various layers above the archean all thin out before 
reaching the northern limits of the county. This fact is one that has much 
significance in a study of the efifects of the ice age upon denudation. There 
are little or no evidences of intense glaciation previous to the tertiary period ; 
it was not until the quartanary was ushered in that glaciation assumed its 
grand proportions here. The fact that gneissoidal and granitic rocks are the 
surface rocks in the northern portions of the county is evidence that the 
territory was among the earliest portions of the globe to rise above the waters 
of the primeval ocean without subsequent prolonged subsidence. There are 
many theories concerning the causes that have produced and ushered in the 
glacial period, among them the most plausible, changes of level of land sur- 
face. Visitors to all mountain lands observe snow and ice upon each con- 
siderable elevation, and perhaps it is sufficient in this connection to cite the 
fact that glaciation seems to have been one of the finishing processes of world 
making ; fitting the surface and soil conditions for their capabilities to mam- 
tain and sustain the higher and more important forms of animal ex^istences. 
The countries that are the most thickly inhabited are the ones that have been 
submitted to the most intense glaciation. The scenery of lake and forest, the 
formation of hills and valleys, have in most instances been sculptured and 
shaped by glaciation. 

Professor Agassiz was the first to study the glaciation of the Alps; that of 
Greenland, Alaska, and other countries has since been studied by others. It 
has been found that exactly a similar wearing away and scoring of the rocks, 
the transportation of detritus, and other forms of ice action may be observed 
all over the north part of the continent, and this is now the accepted explana- 
tion of the same phenomena and conditions here. They can be accounted 
for in no other rational manner. It has been thought that there has been more 
than one period of glaciation, but a study of the local conditions seem to 
reveal but one period here. The section seems have been in the center and 
track of the most intense denudation. The movement of the ice lobe seems 
to have begun upon the shores of the Atlantic, perhaps as far north as Green- 
land, and slowly crept southward year by year, always most intense upon and 
near the ocean, or other large bodies of water, and to have extended as far 
south as Central New Jersey, then following an irregular line northwestward 
to near the east end of Lake Erie, thence southwestward to Cincinnati, Ohio, 
thence northwestward to Central Iowa, and continuing via Bismarck, Dakota, 
to an unknown distance over the Saskatchewan. There was at the same time 
another lobe m.oving from Alaska on the Pacific, extending as far south as 
Northern California, and another extending from North to Central Europe 
upon the Eastern continent. Ice seems a solid and rigid body, but is really a 
solid with some of the characteristics of a liquid. 

These semi-solid movements have been most carefully studied anet 
measured in Greenland. It has been found that ice moves over that conti- 
nent wherever there is a slope of 40 feet to the mile ; and in the Alps over a 



THE ICE AGE. 25 



like slope the distance of 70 feet a day where there was an ice front of not 
more than a half mile. On steeper slopes and wider fronts the movement is 
several hundred feet a day. The power of ice to tear away and transport 
rock masses from one place to another seems to lie in the fact of congeala- 
tion at night, and thawing during the day time. Ice expands in freezing. This 
is the force that loosens and rends the solid mountains. These detached 
masses, falling upon the ice, are carried to lower levels, or frozen fast to the 
bottom ice and carried onward with the mass, scoring and grinding the 
rocks over which they move with prodigous energy. 

THICKNESS OF THE ICE. 

Glacialists estimate that the lobe of ice upon the shores of the Atlantic, in 
New England, was over 11,000 feet thick. There has been no careful esti- 
mate made for the thickness over Northern New York, but it must have been, 
from like territorial conditions, nearly, or quite, as thick here. The local 
circumdenudation that has taken place is quite as marked as that of most 
other localities. There areno high mountains within the region under consid- 
eration by which to measure the thickness. Dry Hill being the main low 
range within the county, this has certainly been covered by ice, for there 
is observed to be an abundance of bowlders and drumlins upon the highest 
summits. Between the cemetery and the hamlet of Burrville may be seen 
drumlins, lateral and medial moraines, also in the town of Rutland, and all 
over the northern, and western, and central portions of the county. 

GLACIAL STREAMS. 

It was not until the closing scenes of the glacial period, when these great 
masses of ice were thawing and wasting away, the slow accumulations of 
many thousands of years, that the system of glacial rivers, seen all over the 
county, were formed. The more prominent ones came down from the direc- 
tion of Carthage, trending southwestward, and emptying into Lake Ontario. 
What is known as Rutland Hollow, and the swamp in the towns of Rutland, 
Watertown, and Hounsfield, was one of these old glacial river beds, dividing 
just east of the city of Watertown. One branch flowed along its bed through 
the cemetery, the other through the fair ground, thus making the site of 
Watertown an island at that time. Where it crosses the present river, near 
the new engine works, deep stride may be seen in the heavy bedded birds-eye 
limestone. Later on, and nearer the close of glaciation, this channel in Rut- 
land was filled or dammed with ice, and a lower one, the same as the one 
now occupied by the present river, formed. The old geologists, before gla- 
ciation was much studied, believed that the present river channel, from Water- 
town to Dexter, is later and denuded by causes now in action ; but the 
better explanation seems to be that the present river bed is the old channel 



26 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



of preglacial erosion, temporarily dammed with ice during the glacial period^ 
and that, upon the ice thawing, the present channel was again reoccupied. 
It is readily observed and apparent that while the ice sheet overlaid the whole 
country all previously existing streams became filled and dammed with ice,, 
and new ones established, flowing southward, or, as in the case here, more 
to the westward. 

The St. Lawrence was turned back upon itself; the waters of Lake On- 
tario forced to find an outlet into the Hudson through the channel of the 
Mohawk; then the channel of the Mohawk was dammed with ice, and the 
whole watershed reversed and turned westward into the Ohio and the Wabash. 
The old shores of Lake Ontario, 200 feet above their present level, may be 
seen in many places and upon different levels as the successive channels 
were closed and opened. The theory of a molten condition of the earth's 
center obtains some confirmation from these old lake shores occupying ele- 
vations. They suggest that the vast masses of ice temporarily depressed the 
portions of the earth that they covered. 

Local conditions to some extent determined the directions of the streams 
and rivers. The Adirondack Mountains, being a center of local glaciation, 
forced all outflows of water and ice in southwesterly direction. The glacial 
scratches, the sculpturing of the hills, and directions of the valleys show this. 

The Potsdam sandstone, the strata of the birds-eye limestone, and that of 
the Hudson River group probably extended further north than at present; 
but over all the northern and western portions of the county the edges have 
been denuded and carried away. An examination of the sands that now lie 
upon the western slopes of the mountains shows them to have been made up 
from the calciferous and Potsdam sandstone mainly. These same red sands 
now fill the bottoms of the channels of the old glacial streams, and they over- 
lie considerable stretches of the surface of the county. The " pine plains " 
above Great Bend, once densely covered with pine forest, is made up of this 
sand, so little intermixed with sediment and glacial clays, common over 
most other portions of the territory, that there is no fertility in the soil, it 
being almost pure sand. 

The southeastern portions of the county seem not to have been so much 
disturbed by glaciation. The streams are usually old channels of erosion, 
and the general face of the country, though deeply scored in places, appears 
more like unglaqjated regions. There was undoubtedly the same covering 
of ice there, but the land being higher, and a little outside of the center of gla- 
cial activities, the ice melted more slowly. There is a fine natural expos- 
ure of the edge of the Utica slate, where it thins out in the bed of Sandy 
Creek, a short distance from Whitesville, perhaps the only natural thinning 
out exposure left in the county readily found. It was this natural thinning 
out of the strata that presented the opportunity for the great displays of local 
dynamic energy ; the ice, following the harder gneiss and granite, easily dis- 
placed the edges of the stratified rocks, until it met the heavy bedded birds- 



THE ICE AGE. 



27 



eye limestone in the central portions of the county. Genuine " hogs backs" 
are seen at Carthage upon the carved and worn beds of gneiss that form 
the county rock there. 



=5* 



^ < _■§ 







Gray SanistoJie. 






ioxvmxe 



S]iale. 



Uiica Slade. 



Trentou Liniesione. 



BlatkliiverLuneslonc. 
BirJi'Cyo -uuttesione. 

Calciferoiis SaiAdsioiie. 



Potsclavi San3.s\me. 



TxAf. 

Talcos«, 
Sicnite, 
Siarnklcnae, 

Caxt'iis, 

6.va»vdfi, 



aV\ oi)tiipuvx'v\\>\v'v!''j^«voiu 




JICAI. SEtTlUN (IK THIC STRATA OF JEFFERSO.N COUNTY. 



Perch Lake and nearly all the other small lakes in the county are what are 
termed by glacialists kettle holes. They were formed by glacial detritus, being 
dropped at the lower ends of depressions, and there has not yet time inter- 
vened for their filling up, or the wearing down of their outlets. It is in these 
respects that the county has been benefitted by glaciation ; but taking the 
county as a whole there may be doubts of any benefits arising out of former 
glaciation. In too many places the fine preglacial soils have either been 
covered up or removed to Central and Southern New York, Pennsylvania,, 
and Ohio, too little time since intervening for the reformation of fertile 



28 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



soils by natural causes. Judging by the data we have in the wearing away of 
streams it is scarcely ten thousand years since glaciers were floating to Lake 
Ontario from the Adirondack region, past the site of the city of Watertown. 

The heavy bedded clays in the central and western part of the county, under- 
laid by gravel and bowlders, are true glacial clays, deposited while the lake 
was at a higher level. In some beds there are intermixtures of blue clay. 
These have been derived from the denuded Utica slate and Lorraine shale. 

Bowlders of gneiss, hornblende, granite, Labradorite, marble, mica schist, and 
other minerals from the Laurentian rocks of Canada, and the highlands of 
the Adirondack, some of them weighing an hundred tons, are common and 
indiscriminately distributed upon and below the surface in nearly all parts of 
the county. 

AMOUNT OF RAIN-FALL FOR 44 YEARS. 

Below is a carefully prepared table, by Moses Fames, of the amount of 
rain-fall in each month of the years from 1846 to and including the year 1889. 
Of the 44 years there have been 22 years below and 22 years above the 
average. The yearly average for the 44 years has been 32.88 inches. The 
total amount for that time was 120.55 feet. Up to 1861 the observations 
were made in Rutland ; after that date in the city of Watertown. The 
amounts are expressed in inches and hundredths of inches: — 



MONTH 

January 

February . . . 

March , 

April 

May 

June 

July 

August 

September. . . 

October 

November. . . 
December. .. 



1846 \ 1847 1848 1849 i 1850 i 1851 I 1852 1853 1854 1855 1856 



2.72 


3.13 


1.84 


1.30 


2.18 


.87 


1.80 


1.52 


2.61 


1.58 


2.70 


1.69 


2.94 


.63 


3.01 


4.25 


4.14 


1.33 


4.60 


6.12 


4.49 


2.53 


1.36 


1.87 


3.68 


8.06 


3.18 


6.68 


4.32 


4.20 


5.15 


4.54 


2.55 


1.84 


3.67 


3.57 



2.07 
.70 
3.41 
1.75 
4.30 
1.38 
2.79 
1.88 
4.62 
7.06 
3.44 
2.79 



2.50 
2.96 
1.45 
2.20 
3.65 
1.73 
7.63 
3.51 
4.23 
6.82 
3.88 
3.69 



1.71 
2.94 
2.46 
1.46 
2.91 
2.82 
8.03 
3.46 
2.17 
3.04 
4.90 
3.67 



1.68 
1.42 
2.74 
1.79 
2.62 
2.11 
3.59 
1.13 
3.78 
2.95 
3.88 
5.51 



39.07 I 42.37 i 31.21 36.19 : 44.25 38.57 ■ 33.20 33.12 29.46 33.81 27.51 



1.00 
3.52 
3.45 
2.76 
3.59 
1.18 
1.60 
2.70 
5.50 
3.12 
3.42 
1.28 



2.64 

2.72 
221 
4.07 
2.25 
2.82 
.67 
.92 
2.65 
3.87 
3.40 
1.74 



2.91 
1.62 

.80 
1.93 

.93 
4.82 
3.93 
2.73 
3,57 
5.27 
1.82 
3.49 



1.93 
.76 
.76 
2.02 
4.47 
2.12 
2.80 
3.28 
3.49 
1.45 
2.26 
2.17 



MONTH. 


1857 


1858 


1859 


1860 


1861 


1862 


1863 


1864 


1865 


1866 


1867 


January 


1.00 
3.57 
2.15 
5.16 
2.90 
5.64 
2.46 
4.45 
3.73 
5.78 
4.80 
4.97 

46.61 


1.83 
1.39 
.97 
3.16 
3.54 
2.76 
3.14 
2.91 
4.11 
2.25 
1.90 
2.31 

30.27 


1.68 
1.20 
3.40 
3.87 
1.73 
3.50 
1.43 
5.75 
3.20 
2.16 
4.53 
3.80 


1.87 
.97 
1.31 
1.67 
1.57 
4.45 
4.56 
3.55 
5.21 
5.00 
5.10 
2.24 


2.61 
3.27 
3.27 
3.27 
3.52 
2.09 
8.26 
2.47 
4.12 
7.27 
2.26 
1.59 


2.33 
2.30 
2.83 
1.28 
2.33 
1.39 
3.68 
1.25 
2.58 
3.26 
1.85 
3.21 


2.57 
2.92 
2.35 
2.15 
3.12 
3.35 
3.37 
3.60 
2.99 
5.85 
4.57 
3.03 


2.46 
1.33 
2.23 
3.31 
5.92 
.78 
.80 
5.14 
3.74 
4.29 
5.70 
4.23 


2.64 
.58 
4.16 
3.71 
2.60 
4.81 
2.62 
1.43 
3.27 
6.15 
3.21 
2.65 


2.24 
2.64 
2.70 
2.19 
3.17 
6.25 
1.79 
6.52 
6.86 
3.66 
7.30 
4.96 


1.26 


February 

March 


1.70 
.68 


April 


1.96 


May 

June 

July 

August 

September 

October 


5.67 
.71 
2.42 
1.55 
3.21 
1.20 


November 

December 


.90 
.92 




36.25 


37.55 


44.00 


28.29 


39.87 


38.93 


37.83 


50.28 


22.18 



RAIN-FALL FRENCH EXPEDITIONS. 



29 



MONTH. 


1868 


1869 


1870 


1871 


1872 


1873 


1874 


1875 


1876 


1877 


1878 


Januarv 


3.26 


.90 


3.67 


.84 


1.09 


3.29 


6.15 


1.80 


1.71 


2.60 


2.42 


February 


.77 


.94 


2.25 


1.55 


1.15 


.80 


2.14 


1.38 


3.85 


.47 


1.40 




1.52 
.04 


1.85 
.94 


2.11 
.80 


2.74 
2.55 


2.30 
.86 


4.55 
1.90 


2.33 
1.95 


1.60 
1.20 


4.30 
2.12 


2.92 
1.60 


1.82 


April 


1.76 


May 


3.47 


2.96 


1.12 


1.42 


2.35 


1.00 


.82 


2.92 


1.42 


1.86 


1.93 


June 


1.76 
1.93 


2.69 
5.21 


1.73 
1.56 


1.56 

2.74 


2.88 
2,05 


4.03 
2.40 


2.34 
4.37 


1.12 
1.56 


1.91 
2.09 


1.47 
1.64 


1.43 


July 


4.60 


August 


1.16 


.98 


1.46 


6.84 


3.33 


.80 


1.00 


2.29 


.30 


2.27 


8.37 


September 


3.11 


5.17 


4.42 


2.33 


2.74 


1.74 


2.57 


2.46 


2,52 


2.30 


1.53 


October 


2.29 


1.55 


1.66 


1.35 


4.70 


4.50 


4.77 


2.44 


2.41 


.92 


4.15 


November 


5.51 


2.36 


1.26 


2.96 


2.74 


2.58 


2.36 


1.47 


1.22 


2.46 


3.84 


December 


1.19 


2.41 


3.61 


2.22 


2.37 


1.71 


.92 


1.37 


2.09 


1.37 


6.05 




26.61 


27.46 


25.65 


29.10 


28.54 


29.30 


31.72 


21.61 


25.94 


21.88 


39.30 



MONTH. 


1879 


1880 


1881 


1882 


1883 


1884 


1885 


1886 


1887 


1888 


1889 


-January 


1.34 
1.21 


2.64 
2.51 


2.30 
2.52 


1.67 
1.83 


2.95 
3.28 


3.37 
3.06 


4.53 
2.65 


2.96 
2.25 


3.37 
3.66 


1.48 
1.30 


3.87 


February 


2.17 


March 


1.46 

.48 


1.97 
1.78 


2.64 
.40 


2.43 
1.31 


1.70 
1.37 


2.34 
.41 


1.47 
3.58 


4.18 
3.75 


1.51 
1.93 


2.64 
1.14 


1.50 


April 


2.07 


May 


1.67 


2.67 


4.07 


4.13 


5.04 


2.66 


1.77 


2.46 


2.00 


1.23 


1.86 


June 


1.84 


1.88 


2.34 


2.61 


2.22 


.51 


3.70 


2.22 


1.50 


1.69 


5.35 


July 


1.28 


1.70 


1.04 


2.38 


4.57 


3.49 


3.34 


2.49 


1.58 


1.70 


4.20 


August 


1.89 


2.20 


.99 


3.40 


1.95 


4.98 


2.38 


3.05 


.93 


4.81 


1.21 


September 


1.22 


2.71 


1.14 


2.30 


2.70 


3.02 


3.48 


4.91 


1.94 


1.75 


3.93 


October 


.52 


4.27 


2 31 


.62 


2.78 


2.44 


4.15 


1.23 


2.40 


3.14 


3.35 


November 


4.40 


2.39 


2.94 


1.72 


1.84 


3.31 


3.50 


4.34 


2.06 


5.23 


4.89 


December 


2.46 


2.80 


3.88 


2.78 


2.31 


4.50 


4.81 


3.50 


2.78 


3.04 


3 32 




19.77 


29.52 


28.03 


27.20 


32.71 


34.36 


39.40 


37.24 


25.66 


29.05 


37.72 



For the first three months of 1890 the total has been: January, 4.41; Feb- 
ruary, 2.70; March, 2.08. 

FRENCH EXPEDITIONS. 



Although this territory was not actually inhabited at the time it became 
known to Europeans, it is not without incident connected with the wars be- 
tween the French in Canada and Iroquois in New York, who from an early 
period had been under the influence of the English. Within a very few years 
from the time of first occupation the French had penetrated far into the 
interior, explored the great lakes, discovered the Mississippi near its source, 
and established small posts for the double purpose of securing the fur trade 
and converting to their religion the natives. The Dutch had conciliated the 
Iroquois, and their influence had been transferred to the English, who suc- 
ceeded them, which led to a hostile incursion by De Courcelles and De 
Tracy against the Mohawks in 1665-66, resulting in nothing but the murder 
of a few aged warriors, who preferred death to the abandonment of their 
homes, and in exciting to a greater degree of insolence the Indians, who 
sometime after fell upon a party of French hunters, killed several, and car- 
ried others away prisoners. Peace was subsequently gained, during which 
the French got the permission of the natives to erect a fort at Cataroqui 
(Kingston), ostensibly to protect the traders and their merchandise. The 
Jesuits, meanwhile availing themselves of the peace, penetrated the settle- 



30 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



ments of the Five Nations, and acquired to some degree an influence witb 
the Onondagas. The Senecas and Cayugas were still jealous of the French^ 
and continued to annoy their trade, which led to a complaint* from De la 
Barre, governor of Canada, to Governor Dongan, of New York, that these 
savages had plundered seven canoes, and detained 14 French traders; 
to which the principal Seneca sachem returned a spirited reply, and Dongan 
requested the French to keep to their own side of the lake.f This provoked; 
an insolent letter from the French governor, in which he said: — 

* * * " I sent Sieur Bourbon to you to advise you of the vengeance I was about to wreak, 
for the insult inflicted on the Christian name by the Senecas and Cayugas, and you answer me 
about the possessions of lands of which neither you nor I are judges, but our two Kings who 
have sent us, and of which there is no question at present, having no thought of conquering 
countries, but of making the Christian name and the French people to be respected, and in 
which I will spill the last drop of my blood. I have great esteem for your person, and consid- 
erable desire to preserve the honor of his Brittanick Majesty's good graces, as well as those of 
my Lord the Duke of York; and I even believe that they wiU greatly appreciate my chastise- 
ment of those who insult you and capture you every day, as they have done this winter in 
Merilande. But if I was so unfortunate as that you desire to protect robbers, assassins, and 
traitors, I could not distinguish their protector from themselves. I pray you, then, to attacb 
faith to the credit which I give Sieur de Salvaye to explain everything to j'ou; and, if the- 
Senecas and Cayugas wish your services as their intercessor to take security from them, not 
in the Indian, but in the European fashion, without which and the honor of hearing fi-om you, 
I shall attack them towards the 20th of the month of August, New Stile." J 

A plan of operations had been previously arranged under the direction of 
the home government, and a negotiation with the governor of New York 
could have no other object than to keep inactive the English forces by pro- 
fessions of amity, and a declaration that they were only at war with traitors 
and robbers, common enemies of mankind. Preliminaries being settled De 
la Barre, in June, 1684, sent five or six picked soldiers, and as many mechan- 
ics, to Fort Frontenac, to repair that post, and on the 9th of July left Quebec, 
in three divisions, at the head of 300 militia, which was increased to 550 at 
Montreal. The regulars and Indian allies made the entire array about 2,000 
men, a very powerful army for that time. From the difficulty of procuring 
boats and provisions, the obstruction of the rapids, and the prevalence of 
southwest winds the army was delayed till past the middle of August in ar- 
riving at Frontenac. Meanwhile, through the influence of Lamberville, a 
Jesuit, at Onondaga, that village had become anxious that the difficulties 
might be settled by mediation, a course to which De la Barre was the more 
inclined from the shortness of provisions with which he was threatened. He 
had crossed with his army to La Famine, a point favorable for hunting and 
fishing, 24 leagues from Onondaga, to await the result of negotiations. 
Here, exposed to the sultry heats of August, and scantily supplied with pro- 

*noc. Hist, of N. F., Vol. I., p. 99. 

\ Ibid., p. 100. 

X Paris Doc. II.; London Doc. V. (See Doc. Hist, of N. Y.. Vol. i., p. 103.) 



FRENCH EXPEDITIONS. 3 I 



visions, most of his men were attacked with intermittent fevers, which as- 
sumed a malignant type, and destroyed numbers, while it incapacitated the 
remainder from hostile operations. Being thus situated he hastily dispatched 
a Christian savage to La Moine, at Onondaga, to have him hasten the depart- 
ure of those whom the Iroquois had agreed to send to treat with the French 
governor. This was done with promptness, and on the 3d of September 
nine deputies from Onondaga, three from Oneida, and two from Cayuga 
arrived from La Moine, and were courteously received by the governor, who 
deferred the business of the embassy till the morrow. The Senecas, against 
whom the vengeance of the French was to have been directed, did not con- 
descend to send representatives to the treaty, and returned an insolent 
answer to the invitation. They had been privately assured of assistance from 
Dongan, the English governor, in case they were attacked. The inclination 
for peace, which the Onondagas, Oneidas, and Cayugas evinced, may be 
ascribed to the ascendency which the Jesuits residing among them had 
acquired. Upon the convening of the council De la Barre with his 
officers formed a serai-circle on one side, while Garangula, the Onondaga 
orator, with the warriors that accompanied him, completed the circle on the 
other. The French governor made an address to the Indians, in which he 
accused the several tribes of the Five Nations, and especially the Senecas, 
who had no representatives in the council, of interfering with the trade with 
the Illmois and Umamies, and other Indian nations, with whom the French 
were on friendly terms, and demanded satisfaction and a discontinuance of 
hostilities, and warned them that the consequences of a refusal to comply with 
his demand would be a declaration of war. Garangula, in replying to this, 
assured the governor that the Five Nations feared not the result of a war 
with the French, and declared that they had plundered none of the French 
but those that carried guns, powder, and balls to their enemies, the Twigh- 
twies andChictagicks. He also assured De la Barre that he understood the 
object of his journey to the Iroquois country " was to knock them on the 
head, if sickness had not weakened the arms of the French." On the 6th of 
September De la Barre hastily took his departure, having had all the sick 
embarked the day before (so as not to be seen by the Indians), to the num- 
ber of 150 canoes and 12 flat bateaux, and on the evening of the same day 
arrived at Fort Frontenac, where he found that no of the number left there 
had departed, sick, for Montreal, whither the governor followed the next day. 
The Marquis de Denonville succeeded De la Barre the next year, and 
brought from France forces thought sufficient for the reduction of the Sene- 
cas, which was undertaken two years after, with a large force,* but without 
success, further than ravaging their country with fire, and destroying a few 
aged and defenseless men and women. On July 26, 1688, the Iroquois, to 



* Doc. Hist, of N. K, Vol. I., p. 193. 



32 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



the number of 1,200, invaded the island of Montreal without notice, and 
destroyed more than 1,000 French, besides carrying away great numbers of 
prisoners for torture. In these and other expeditions this territory must have 
been the scene of many events of tragic interest, but the history of the de- 
tails has not come down to us. 

During the French and English war, which in 1760 resulted in the com- 
plete subjection of the former, the frontier again became alive with military 
operations, and the principal route between Canada and the Mohawk settle- 
ments passed through this county. On Six Town Point, in the town of 
Henderson, a small stockade was erected during this period. Between the 
bastions, at each angle, the sides were but 48 feet, and the whole affair was 
of slight aad transient character. In a work entitled Memoires sur le Can- 
ada there is mentioned the occupation of a post at the mouth of Sandy 
Creek, of which no trace remains. The most interesting relic of the olden 
time within the county are the ruins of Fort Carleton, on Carleton Island, 
which is described in connection with the sketch of Cape Vincent, page 311. 

LAND TITLES.* 

From time immemorial, down to a few years after the close of the Revo- 
lution, the title of lands in this section of the state was shared in doubtful 
supremacy by savages and other denizens of the forests. At the earliest 
period of authentic history the Iroquois confederacy, and the Oneida nation 
in particular, were acknowledged to be the owners of the greater portion of 
our territory ; which, according to Gautinonty, a chief of the Oswegatchie 
tribe, extended as far north as a line running from the mouth of French 
Creek to Split Rock, on Lake Champlain ; while the Oswegatchies claimed 
the land north, as far down the St. Lawrence as Cat Island (Louisville), where 
a monument had been erected by Sir John Johnson. f The Oneidas, accord- 
ing to a map and survey by Arent Marselis, at the request of John Duncan, 
and by order of the surveyor-general, claimed " from the ' Line of Property ' 
reversed, and continued from the Canada Creek, till it comes to a certain 
mountain called Esoiade, or the Ice mountain, that Canada Creek, opposite 
to the old Fort Hendrick, heads ; from thence running westerly to an old fort 
which stood on the creek, called Wetermghra Gue/itere, and which empties 
into the River St. Lawrence, about 12 miles below Carleton, or Buck Island, 
and which fort the Oneidas took from their enemies a long time ago ; from 
thence running southerly to a rift upon the Onondaga River called Ogoute- 

* Condensed from Hough's History. 

f Special message of Gov. Lewis, Assembly Journal, 1804-05, p. 49. 



LAND TITLES. 



35 



nagea, or Aguegonteneayea (a place remarkable for eels), about five miles from 
where the river empties out of the Oneyda Lake." * 

Marselis was doubtless the first surveyor in the county, and there is pre- 
served a traverse of Hungry Bay made by him, in September, 1789, which 
began "at a monument, or red painted post, setup by the Indians, as a di- 
vision line between the Onendago and Oneida nation " ; from which it would 
seem that the former claimed some right on the eastern shore of Lake On- 
tario. To extinguish these claims a treaty was held at Fort Stanwix, Octo- 
ber 22, 1784, with the Six Nations, by which all the country east of a 
line drawn from Johnson's landing place on Lake Ontario, and keeping four 
miles east of the carrying-path between that lake and Lake Erie, to the 
mouth of Tehoseroron, or Buffalo Creek, and thence south to the north line 
of Pennsylvania, and down the Ohio, was ceded to the United States. The 
Oneidas were represented at this treaty by two chiefs. This tribe, by a defi- 
nite treaty held in September, 1788, conveyed the greater part of their lands 
to the state, by an instrument, the original of which is preserved in the sec- 
retary's office ; it is on a sheet of parchment about two feet square, with 35 
seals of the parties, and appended to it is a string of wampum, made of six 
rows of cylindrical white and blue beads, strung upon deer skin cords. This 
belt is about two inches wide and nearly two feet long. To this treaty, or 
deed, was attached the names of the following Indians, those marked with a * 
being women: Odaghseghte, Kanaghweaga, Peter Utsiquette, Toyohagwe- 
anda, Shonoughlego, alias Anthony, Thaghniyongo, Tekeandyahkon, Olseto- 
gou, Oneyanha, alias Beech Tree, Thaghtaghguisea, Gaghsaweda, Thougwe- 
aghshale, Ojistalale, alias Hanquarry, Thaghneghtolis, alias Hendrick, Kan- 
aghsalilgh, Thaghsweangalolis, alias Paulus, Agwelentongwas, alias Domine 
Peter, Kahiektotan, Teyoughnihalk, Konwagalot*, Jonegh Flishea, alias 
Daniel, Alawistonis, alias Blacksmith, Sagoyontha, Kaskonghguea, Kanaw- 
galet*, Thaniyeandagayon, Keanyoko, alias David, Hannah Sodolk*, Honon- 
wayele*. The commissioners authorized to treat with the Indians, and whose 
names were also attached to the document, in addition to that of Governor 
George Clinton, were Richard Varick, Peter Gansevoort, Jr., William Floyd, 
Samuel Jones, Ezra L. Flommedieu, and Egbert Benson. 

At a treaty held at Kon-on-daigua, N. Y., November 11,1794, the United 
States confirmed this treaty with the Oneidas. 

The office of land commissioners was created in 1786, and they were 
clothed with discretionary powers in selling the unappropriated lands of the 
state. The manner in which they exercised this trust has been made the 
subject of severe censure. June 22, 1791, Alexander Macomb, of New York 
city, acting as land agent of a company said to consist of himself, Daniel 
McCormick, and William Constable, all of New York, applied for the pur- 

* The original survey bill and map are filed in the state engineer's office. 



34 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



chase of a tract of land since known as Macomb's Purchase,* embracing the 
greater part of Franklin, the whole of St. Lawrence, excepting the " ten 
towns " and Massena, the whole of Jefferson (excepting Penet's Square and 
Tibbets's Point), the whole of Lewis, and a part of Oswego counties. This 
proposition included the islands in Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence, front- 
ing the tract, and excepted five per cent, for roads, and all lakes of a greater 
area than i,ooo acres. The proposed price was eight pence per acre. One-sixth 
part was payable in one year, and the residue in five equal annual install- 
ments. If one-sixth were secured by satisfactory bonds, and paid, and an- 
other sixth in like manner secured, Macomb was to receive a patent for a 
sixth part, in a square, in one of the corners of the tract, and the same rule 
was to be observed throughout, until the whole was paid. Carleton or Buck 
Island and the Long Sault Island were expressly reserved to the state. This 
proposition was accepted, and the surveyor general was directed to survey the 
tract at the expense of Macomb. January to, 1792, he reported that the 
conditions had been complied with, and on that day a patent f was issued to 
Macomb, for 1,920,000 acres, reserving 800 acres to be located by the surveyor- 
general.} This included the whole of the tract not in the present counties 
of Franklin and St. Lawrence, an uncertaincy existing in relation to the 
islands in the St. Lawrence ; these were patented after the national boun- 
dary had been determined, and to other parties. The reservation stipulated 
to Penet was confirmed by the following proceedings of the land commis- 
sioners: — 

"At a meeting of the commissioners of the land office of the state of New York, held at 
the secretary's office in the city of New York, on Saturday, the 8th day of August, 1789. Pres- 
ent, His Excellency. George Clinton, Esq., governor; Lewis A. Scott, Esq., secretary; Richard 
Varick. Esq., attorney-general; and Gerardus Bancker, treasurer. 

" Resolved, That the surveyor-general be directed to lay out for Peter Penet, at his ex- 
pense, the lands ceded by the Oneida Nation to the people of this state, by their deed of 
cession dated the 22d day of September last, lying to the northward of Oneida Lake, a tract of 
10 miles square, wherever he shall elect the same, and further, that he lay out for John Francis 
Pearche, and at his expense, a tract of land stipulated by the said deed of cession to be granted 
-to him," etc., i-eferring to a tract two miles sqi;ai-e in Oneida County. § 

On the 19th of November, 1789, the following action was taken : — 

'• Tlie surveyor-general, agreeable to an order of this board, of the 8th of August last, hav- 
ing made a return of survey of Peter Penet, of a tract of 10 miles square, as elected by John 
Duncan, his agent, (of the lands ceded by the Oneida Nation of Indians to the people of this 

* Full details of this purchase, with a copy of his applications, may be found in 
Hough's History of Si. Lawrence and Franklin Counties, p. 252, et seq. 

\ Secretary Office Patents, b. 23, p. 160. 

\ This was selected at Tibbets's Point, in Cape Vincent, at the outlet of the lake, which 
was patented to Capt. John Tibbets, of Troy, and never formed a part of Macomb's Pur- 
chase. It embraced but 600 acres, as surveyed by John Campbell in the fall of 1799. 

% Land Office Minutes, Vol. IL, p. 56. 



LAND TITLES. 35 



-state by their deed of cession, dated the 22d day of September, 1788,) lying to the northward 
of Oneida Lake, as by the said return of survey filed in the secretary's office will more fully 
appear. And the said John Duncan, having, as agent aforesaid, made application to the 
•board for letters patent for the same, 

" Resolved. Therefore, that the secretary do prepare letters patent to the said Peter Penet, 
for the said tract of 10 miles square, accordingh', and lay them before the board for their ap- 
probation." * 

Peter Penet, by an instrument dated January 23, 1789,! made John Dun- 
can his attorney, and the latter received, November 19, 1789, a patent J for 
a tract 10 miles square, wliich, on the 13th of July, 1790, he conveyed § for 
the nominal sum of five shillings to James Watson and James Greenleaf, of 
New York. February 26, 1795, Watson released || to Greenleaf his half of 
the tract for ^^1,000, the latter having, September 4, 1797, conveyed by deed 
the 64,000 acres to Simon DesjardinesTI for ;^i 9,400. 

Desjardines conveyed to Nicholas Olive, of New York, January 29, 1796,** 
and the latter to Herman Le Roy, William Bayard, and James McEvers 
.44,000 acres of this tract, f t i" trust as joint tenants for certain heirs, of 
whom Mallet Prevost was entitled to 8,000 acres; John Lewis Grenus to 
12,000 acres; Henry Finguerlin, Jr., 8,000 acres. At the time of this con- 
veyance Olive held these lands in trust, and 16,000 acres in his own right. 
A deed of partition between the proprietors was executed May 17, i8o2,fJ 
according to a division by ballot, as follows : N. Olive, 16,000; J. L. Grenus, 
1,200 ; H. Finguerlin, Jr., 8,000; A. M. Prevost, 8,000 acres, making 44,000 
acres, which, with 8,000 to Louis Le Guen, and 12,000 to John Wilkes pre- 
viously conveyed by Olive, § § made 64,000 on the whole tract. After the 
deed of partition, and on the rith of June, 1802, the proprietors released to 
one another the quantity allotted to each, as follows : John Wilkes and 
Louis Le Guen, to Le Roy, Bayard, and McEvers, of 44,000 acres ; L. B. 
& M. and Louis Le Guen, to John Wilkes, of 12,000; and L. B. & M. 
and J. Wilkes, to L. Le Guen, of 8,000 acres. || || 

Nicholas Olive, in his will, made his wife and Henry Cheriothis executors, 
and his widow afterwards married Simon Louis Pierre, Marquis de Cubieres, 
of Paris, who with his wife did, May 9, 18 18, appoint L. B. & M. to convey 
to Prevost, Grenus, and Finguerlin their several shares. The latter, May 

* Land Office Minutes, Vol. II.. p. 80. 
f Sec. office deeds, 22, p. 277. 
X Sec. office patents, 21, p. 407. 
§ Not recorded. 
II Sec. office deeds, 38, p. 350. 
\Ibid., 38, p. 344. 
** Ibid., 352. 
tf/-^/^., 33, P- 165. 
:};:}: Jeff. Co. deeds, rec. Dec. 14, 1824. 

§§ Olive conveyed, Oct. 15, 1800, 8,000 acres to Henry Cheriot (sec. deeds, 38, p. 347), 
-and Cheriot to John Wilkes the same, Oct. 16, 1800 (ibid., p. 432). 
yjeff. Co. deeds, rec. June 18, 1825. 



36 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



20, 1817,* directed L. B. & M. to convey to Joseph Russell and John La 
Farge. Le Roy and Bayard deeded to John, Henry, and Edmund Wilkes 
16,000 acres, September 23, 1818, and the latter to John La Farge, April 14, 
1823,1 having received May 9, 18 18, from the Marquis de Cubieres and wife 
a power of attorney:}: for the purpose. Le Roy and Bayard conveyed 12,000 
acres, November 23, 1818, and to Russell and La Farge 8,000 acres, Sep- 
tember 23, 18 18. § Joseph Russell released his half of these 8,000 acres 
December 12, 1818. § John Wilkes to Charles Wilkes, January i, i8i8, || 
sold 8,000 acres, and the latter the same to La Farge, June 3, 1 825. || By these 
conveyances Mr. La Farge became the owner of the greater part of Penet's 
Square; buthe allowed the lands to be sold for taxes, and his claims were 
subsequently confirmed by a comptroller's deed from William L. Marcy, May 
13, 1828. 

On November 23, 1819, Francis Depau bought 15 lots (21 to 25, 41 to 45, 
56 to 60) for $12,000, ^r excepting parts sold to Samuel Ruggles. In our 
account of Orleans will be given a detail of the irregularities growing out of 
occupation without title, and the conflicting claims which continued many 
years and produced much difficulty. 

The whole of Macomb's contract was estimated to contain, after deduct- 
ing five per cent., 3,670,715 acres, and was divided into five tracts. Tract 
No. I contained 821,819 acres. No. 2 embraced 553,020 acres, or the present 
towns of Parishville, Colton, Hopkinton, Lawrence, Brasher, and a small 
part of Massena in St. Lawrence County. No. 3 the remainder of St. Law- 
rence County south and west of the "ten towns," or 458,222 acres. No. 4 
contained 450,950 acres in Jefferson County, it being, with the exception of 
Penet's Square and Tibbets's Point, all of that country north of a line drawn 
from the southwest corner of St. Lawrence County, north 87° west to Lake 
Ontario. No. 5 (26,250 acres) and No. 6 (74,400 acres) formed the rest of 
the purchase ; the division line between which numbers was never surveyed. 
Soon after perfectmg his title to a portion of this tract Macomb employed 
William Constable (who is said to have been, with Daniel McCormick, the 
principal proprietor) as his agent to sell the lands in Europe ; and June 6, 
1792, he released, and October 3, 1792, conveyed to him the whole of tracts 
4, 5, and 6, for ^50,000.** Macomb had become involved in speculations, 
by which he lost his property, and was lodged in jail ; f t ^"^ his name does 
not subsequently appear in the transfers of land. He had been a fur trader 

*Jeff. deeds, N., 477. 

\ Ibid, deeds, rec. June 23, 1S21. 

XIbid.,XQC. Oct. 23, 1818. 

%Ibid., rec. Oct. 5, i8ig. 

II Jeff. Co., rec. June 18, 1825. 

^ Jeff. Co. deeds, N., 605. 

* * Secretary's Office Deeds, 24, pp. 300 and 332, August 2, 1792. 

f f See Hough's Hist, of St. Lawrence and Franklin Counties^ p. 242. 



LAND TITLES. 37 



in Detroit, afterwards became a mercliant and capitalist in New York, and 
was the father of General Macomb of the War of 1812. 

The first direct measure taken for the actual settlement of the section of 
the state embraced in Jefferson County was in 1792. August 31 William 
Constable, then in Europe, executed a deed to Peter Chassanis, of Paris, for 
630,000 acres south of great lot No. 4, which now constitutes a part of Jef- 
ferson and Lewis Counties. A tract in Leyden, previously conveyed to 
Patrick Colquhoun and William Inman, was excepted. Chassanis acted as 
the " agent for the associated purchasers of land in Montgomery County," 
and the lands were to be by him held in trust for the use of the said William 
Constable, and disposed of by sections of 100 acres each, at the rate of eight 
livres Tournois * per acre ; in which said conveyance it is declared that the 
said Chassanis should account for the proceeds of the sales to Constable, 
according to the terms of an agreement between them, excepting one-tenth 
thereof. The state reservation for roads, etc., were stipulated. A deed for 
625,000 acres having been made from Constable to Chassanis, and delivered 
as an escrow to Rene Lambot, to take effect on the payment of ;^5 2,000, it 
was agreed that the price for this land should be one shilling per acre. Con- 
stable bound himself to procure a perfect title to be authenticated and 
deposited with the Consul General of France, in Philadelphia ; and Chassa- 
nis agreed that the moneys received by Lambot should be remitted to Ran- 
som, Moreland, and Hammersley, in London, as received, subject to 
Constable's order, on presentmg the certificate of Charles Texier, consul, of 
his having procured a clear title. If the sales shall not have amounted to 
^62,750 the balance should be paid in six, nine, and twelve months, in bills 
upon London. Constable granted, for one month, the right of preemption 
to tract No. 4, at the rate of one shilling sterling, payable in three, six, and 
nine months from the date of the deed, as above. The plan of association 
contemplated by this company is minutely set forth in an extensive docu- 
ment,! the execution of which was probably prevented by the French revo- 
lution which soon followed. 

The agreement of Constable and Chassanis, of August 31, 1792, was can- 
celed, and the tract reconveyed March 25, 1793, in consequence of the 
amount falling short, upon survey, far beyond the expectation of all parties. 
On April 12, 1793, Constable conveyed 210,000 acres, by deed, for ^25,000, 
to Chassanis, | since known as the Chassanis Tract^ Castor/and, or T/ie 
French Company's Land, bounded north by No. 4 of Macomb's Purchase, 
south and west by Black River, and east by a line running north, nine miles, 
from a point near the High Falls, and thence northeasterly on such a course 
as might include 210,000 acres. 

April II, 1797, Chassanis appointed Rodolph Tillier his attorney "to 

* Equal to $1,50. 

f For the full text of this document see Hough's Hist, of Jeff. Co., p. 45. 
X Oneida deeds, 3, 56. 
3* 



38 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



•direct and administer the properties and affairs concerning Castorland," etc., 
and in case of his death Nicholas Olive was to succeed him. February 18, 
1797, a new agreement was made between Constable and Tillier, conveying 
the Castorland tract to Chassanis, after the survey of William Cockburn & 
Son, of Poughkeepsie, in 1799, and giving with greater detail the bounds of 
the tract. The former conveyances made the north and east bank of the 
river the boundary, but in this the center of the channel was agreed upon. On 
March 6, 1800, Constable deeded to Chassanis, for one dollar, a tract of 
30,000 acres in the eastern corner of tract No. 4, which was afterwards sub- 
divided into 27 lots and conveyed to James Le Ray. Cockburn 's survey 
divided the purchase into six very unequal tracts, formed by the intersection 
of the principal lines and the river. The tract was subdivided by Charles C. 
Brodhead and assistants, in 1794. In dividing the tract the line running 
north from High Falls was assumed as the cardinal line, from which ranges 
were counted east and west. An east and west line, crossing the other nine 
miles from the falls, was fixed as a second cardinal, from which ranges were 
reckoned north and south. The ranges extended from 19 east, 51 west, 27 
north, and about 9 south ; and the lots included 450 acres each, except those 
on the margin. These were again subdivided into nine square lots of 50 
acres each, which were numbered from i to 4,828. This system of numbering 
has since been observed in designating the location of lands. 

The south line of tract No. 4 was run by John Campbell and others, in 
August, 1794. At a very early period a settlement was begun by Tillier and 
others near the High Falls, east of the river, and several families were set- 
tled. Several extensive sales were made by Chassanis and Tillier to French- 
men of the better class, who had held property and titles in France before the 
revolution. Desjardines & Co. bought 3,002 acres on Point Peninsula; Odier 
& Bousquet, 1,500 acres on Pillar Point; Nicholas Olive (December 17, 
1807), a tract of 4,050 acres north of Black River and Ba,y; Henry Boutin, 
1,000 acres around the present village of Carthage; C. C. Brodhead, 400 
acres in the present town of Wilna; and others. Among these was a con- 
veyance dated March 31, 1801, of 1,817 half acres in scattered lots to 20 
or 30 French people, many of them widows of persons who had acquired 
an interest in the New York Company. May i, 1798, James Le Ray pur- 
chased 10,000 acres in Castorland, and February 15, 1801, all his lands not 
previously sold. Chassanis, in his early sales, had reserved about 600 acres 
(R. 26, W. 24, and 25 N.), between the present villages of Brownville and 
Dexter, for the city of Basle. 

March 27, 1800, Tillier was succeeded in the agency by Gouverneur Mor- 
ris, who appointed Richard Coxe, November 13, 1801, his attorney. Febru- 
ary 5, 1802, Chassanis executed a trust conveyance for $1 to James D. Le 
Ray of 220,500 acres as surveyed by William Cockburn & Son, and by 
other instruments for nominal sums.* The lands were mostly sold to actual 



* Oneida deeds, 9, 517 to 525. 



LAND TITLES. 



39 



settlers by Mr. Le Ray, as agent or principal. David B. Ogden, G. Morris,* 
and many others were at an early period concerned in these titles. 

Macomb's tract No. 4 was surveyed by C. C. Brodhead, in 1796, as- 
sisted by Jonas Smith, Timothy Wheeler, Joshua Northrop, Elias Marvin, 
John Young, Isaac Le Fever, Jacob Chambers, Elijah Blake, Samuel Tupper, 
Eliakim Hammond, and Abraham B. Smede, each with a few men as as- 
sistants, and the whole having a general camp or rendezvous at Hungry Bay, 
on the north side of Pillar Point, at a place called Peck's Cove, near where 
the CJiassanis line crosses the bay. The early settlers here found huts stand- 
ing, and the remains of an old oven were visible for many years thereafter. 
The journals of these surveyors show that they suffered much from sickness 
Some of their supplies were derived from Canada, but the most from the Mo- 
hawk settlement?. A few troops were stationed on Carleton Island, and 
thither some of their sick were sent. This tract, excepting the east corner 
conveyed to Chassanis, was divided into 1,000 lots of 440 acres each (ex- 
cepting those around the border), which were numbered continuously. Evert 
Van Allen had been employed, in 1795, in surveying the boundaries of tract 
No. 4. 

A proposition was entertained from Lord Poultney, in 1792, for the pur- 
chase of a million of acres of Black River land, at a quarter of a dollar per 
acre, of which ;^5,ooo were to be paid down, ;^2o,ooo in one, and the same 
in two years, and the remainder as soon as the surveys were made. Con- 
stable was to guaranty against claims from the native Indians, and all other 
parties, and to give immediate possession. The location was to be deter- 
mined by Col. William Stephens Smith, of New York. This bargain failed, 
and Poultney afterwards became largely concerned in lands in the Genesee 
country. October 3, 1792, Jane, the wife of A. Macomb, released her right 
to the lands previously conveyed. On April 12, 1793, Constable sold in 
London, with the consent of Chassanis, who had previously held a preemp- 
tion claim, to Charles Michael De Wolf, of the city of Antwerp, tract No. 4, 
for 300,000 florins, money of exchange,t and in June following, of the same 
year, De Wolf succeeded in negotiating his purchase at a great advance, viz., 
for 680,000 florins, to a company of large and small capitalists, of the city of 
Antwerp, who subscribed to the stock in shares of 1,000 florins each, and 
organized under the name of the Antwerp Covipany. The stock was divided 
into 680 shares. Like most other operations of foreigners in a distant coun- 
try this company eventually proved unsuccessful, and a loss to the stock- 
holders. Gouverneur Morris became their first agent in America, and on 
January 2, 1800, a deed of half the tract, or 220,000 acres, J passed to him 
from Constable, on account of the company, for $48,889, and on the day fol- 



*Jefr. R., 253. 

+ Equal to $125,356. 

X Oneida Office Deeds, 7, p. 612. 



40 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



lowing the other half, of equal extent, for $46,315.12 to James Donatien 
Le Ray de Chaumont. Tract No. 4 was found by Van Allen's survey to con- 
tain 450,000 acres, including the state reservations. A fornner deed from 
Constable to De Wolf was canceled upon the new one being made. 

The division line between Morris's and LeRay's conveyances commenced at 
the northeast corner of Penet's Square, and run on a line, parallel with the county 
line, to the south line of No. 4. Morris took all northeast of this, and Le Ray 
the remainder. August 15, 1802, a new division line was agreed upon, com- 
mencing near the southeast corner of Penet's Square, running thence to the 
south corner of lot 512, thence to the west corner of the present corner of 
Antwerp, and along the southwest line of that town to the south corner of 
lot 337, and thence to the south line of No. 4. A tract of 30,000 acres in 
the east corner of No. 4 was not included in these conveyances, having been 
sold to Chassanis. In i8og Morris retired from the business, his expenses 
and commissions absorbing 26,840 acres of land. December 23, 1804, he 
had sold for $62,000, to Lewis R. Morris, 49,280 acres in the present town 
of Antwerp.* Mr. Morris subsequently conveyed 41 lots to Silvius Hoard 
in the western part of Antwerp, f adjoining Theresa, and since known as the 
Cooper tract. Abraham Cooper, from Trenton, N. Y., became interested 
in this tract in 181 7.:}; The remainder of Antwerp, excepting three ranges 
of lots on the southeast side, was purchased of Morris by David Parish, in 
1808. The tract amounted to 29,033 acres, and was settled under agents of 
the Parish estate. Moss Kent succeeded as agent of the Antwerp Company^ 
and June 15, 1809, the remainder of their unsold lands, 143,440 acres, were 
conveyed to him. He was soon succeeded by Mr. Le Ray, and September 
17, 1 8 10, the company sold to him for 145,000 florins, money of exchange, 
all their interests in lands in America. The lands with Moss Kent were 
reconveyed to Le Ray, June 24, 181 7, § except 3,250 acres sold to William 
H. Harrison and T. L, Ogden, in Lewis County, December 16, 181 1. 

Mr. Le Ray is said to have been the owner of 126 shares in the Antwerp 
Company, and G. Morris of 26. The former having acquired a title to No. 4, 
and the Chassanis tract, removed to Le Raysville, where he opened a land 
office and proceeded to sell land to actual settlers, to a very large extent. 
He also effected with several Europeans sales of considerable tracts, among 
which were to Louis Augustin De Caulincourt, due de Vincence, October 8, 
1805, a tract of 4,840 acres near Millen's Bay, being 1 1 lots which were con- 
veyed January 28, 1825, to Peter Francis Real, known as Count Real, chief 
of police under Napoleon ; to Emanuel Count De Grouchy, to General 
Desfurneaux, and to others, considerable tracts. Several citizens of New 
York became afterwards concerned in these tracts, on their own account, or 



* Jefferson deeds, C, p. 63. 
f Jefferson deeds, L, 153. 
Xlbul., L, 68. 
^Jeff. deeds, rec Aug. 13, 1S17. 



LAND TITLES. 41 



as agents, and extensive conveyances were made; but as many of these were 
trusts not expressed, and referred to considerations not explained in the 
instruments of conveyance, or on record, an intelligent history of them can- 
not be at this time obtained, with sufficient conciseness for publication, 
should they be deemed of sufficient general interest. Among the lands con- 
veyed were the following : — 

To William and Gerardus Tost, June 3, 1825, for $17,000, 11,800 acres (with 3,503 acres 
excepted) in the present towns of Wilna and Diana; 6,500 acres were conveyed by one, and the 
6xecutors of the other of these, to T. S. Hammond, of Carthage, October 2, 1837, by two deeds, 
for $18,000. To Herman Le Roy and William Bayard, for $50,000, February 9, 1820, the interest 
of J. Le Ray in numerous contracts to settlers on great tract No. 4. To Francis Depau for 
f 23,280, and $15,000, by two conveyances, a large tract in Alexandria, adjoining St. Lawrence 
■County. To Cornelia Juhel, October 9, 1821, numerous lots, and to many others. 

In 1 818 Joseph Bonaparte, who in the United States assumed the title of 
Count de Survilliers,* was induced to enter into a bargain with Le Ray, 
by which he agreed to receive in trust, with a warranty, the conveyance of 
150,000 acres of land, including 74,624 acres of the Antwerp Company 
lands, to be taken in the most remote and unsettled portions, and at the same 
time Mr. Le Ray received certain diamonds and real estate, the whole rated 
at $120,000, and to be refunded in 1830, unless he should agree to accept 
before that time the title of a part of these lands. A trust deed, with cove- 
nant and warranty, was accordingly passed, December 21, 18 18, to Peter S. 
Duponceau, the confidential agent of the Count, for 150,260 acres, with the 
exception of such tracts not exceeding 32,260 acres, as might have been con- 
veyed or contracted to actual settlers. This deed included the greater part 
of Diana, two tiers of lots from the southeast side of Antwerp, the whole of 
Wilna and Philadelphia, a small piece south of Black River, where it makes 
a node across the Chassanis line into No. 4, a tract of four lots wide and 
seven long from Le Ray, and nine lots from the easterly range in Theresa. 
It was recorded with a defeasance appended, in which it is declared a secu- 
rity for $120,000 as above stated, and it provided for an auction sale of lands 
to meet this obligation.! Diamonds having fallen to half their former price 
the fact was made the subject of complaint ; and in 1820 the Count agreed 
to accept 26,840 acres for the nominal sum of $40,260. These lands lay in 
the most remote portion of No. 4, and Mr. Le Ray, in a letter to one of the 
Antwerp Company, dated April 9, 182 1, complimented the Count upon his 
taste in selecting a " tract abounding in picturesque landscapes, whose re- 
mote and extensive forests, affording retreat to game, would enable him to es- 
tablish a great hunting ground; qualities of soil and fitness for settlers were 
only secondary considerations. * * * He regrets, notwithstanding, that 

* This personage, who held successively the thrones of Naples and Spain, was born 
in the island of Corsica, in 1768, being the next older brother of Napoleon I. His resi- 
dence in this country was as an exile, and he returned to Europe as soon as political events 
permitted. 

f Lewis County records. 



42 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



thus far he has not been able to find among the 26,000 acres of land a pla- 
teau of 200 acres of land to build his house upon, but he intends keeping up 
his researches this summer." The Count subsequently commenced an estab- 
lishment near the present village of Alpina in Diana, where a small clearing 
was made, but this was soon abandoned. 

October 29, 1823, Le Ray conveyed to William H. Harrison, in trust for 
the Antwerp Company, for $50,000, two ranges of lots in Antwerp, next to 
Lewis County, subject to the mortgage of Duponceau, with a large amount 
of lands in Lewis County. Meanwhile an act was procured, November 27, 
1824, allowing Charles Joseph Xavier Knyfif, Charles Joseph Geelhand Dela- 
faille, Jean Joseph Reinier Osy, Pierre Joseph De Caters, and Jean Joseph 
Pinson, as trustees of the Antwerp Company, to take and hold lands, and to 
them Harrison conveyed the above tracts. Duponceau and Bonaparte sub- 
sequently released a large tract and took a title of 81,180 acres. The his- 
tory of these transactions may be traced in the recorded conveyances. James 
Le Ray, December 31, 1823, conveyed to his son Vincent all his lands in 
Jefferson County, and by a similar conveyance his lands in Lewis County for 
the benefit of his creditors. 

July 16, 1825, Duponceau executed to Joseph Bonaparte (who, by an act 
of March 31, 1825, had been empowered to hold lands) a deed of all the 
rights he had acquired in the above conveyances. Bonaparte, by an instru- 
ment dated July 14, 1832, made Joseph Raphineau his attorney to deed 
lands contracted by Joseph Boyer, his land agent. In June, 1835, he sold 
to John La Farge, for $80,000, all the interest of Count SurviUiers in lands 
in this and Lewis counties. 

In October, 1824, the Antwerp Company appointed J, N. Rottiers their 
agent to receive and convey lands, and he was directed, by parties interested 
in claims, to commence a prosecution against Le Ray, which was done. The 
extreme depression in the price of land and the total stop of sales which fol- 
lowed the completion of the Erie Canal, and the opening of the Western states 
to emigration, operated disastrously to all parties who had based their plans 
upon expectation of receipts from land sales ; and notwithstanding the es- 
tates of Mr. Le Ray were both extensive and valuable, he could not at that 
time encounter the combination of circumstances which bore so heavily upon 
all land-holders throughout the northern counties, and he found himself com- 
pelled to apply for the benefit of the insolvent act, and to surrender his es- 
tates to his son, in trust for his creditors. As a justification of his course he 
published, for distribution among his foreign creditors, a statement in which 
he vindicated in a satisfactory manner the course he had adopted, and set 
forth the kind and quantity of property at his disposal to meet his liabilities. 
He had at that time the following lands in this state : in Franklin County, 
30,758 acres, valued at $22,500; in St. Lawrence County, 73,947 acres, val- 
ued at $106,000; in Jefferson County, 143.500 acres, valued at $574,000; 
in Lewis County, 100,000 acres, valued at $133,000. 



LAND TITLES. 



4S 



Of his Jefferson lands one eighth were subject to contracts of settlers, upon 
which were three gristmills, three saw-mills, and various clearings, with; 
buildings. At Le Raysville were a grist-mill, storehouses, etc., valued at 
$26,000, and in Pennsylvania, Otsego County, and in France other proper- 
ties of large amounts. In closing up his business a large amount of land was 
confirmed to Vincent Le Ray, and the settlement of affairs was so managed. 
as to satisfy in full the claims of American creditors, 

A considerable amount of the Antwerp Company's lands, remaining in 
scattered parcels, was sold in 1828 by the agent to John La Farge, but this 
sale was subsequently set aside by the Court of Chancery, and February 15, 
1836, 24,230 acres, being most of the remaining lands of the company, and 
situated in Theresa, Antwerp, Alexandria, and Orleans, were sold to Samuel 
Stocking, of Utica, and Norris M. Woodruff, of Watertown, for $1 per acre. 
William H. Harrison acted in the latter sale as the agent of the company. 

Mr. La Farge, July 28, 1846, sold to Charles L. Faverger, for $48,513, a 
tract embracing the two eastern ranges of lots in Antwerp, and 122 lots in 
Diana, excepting parts previously conveyed, amounting to 48,513 acres. 
William Constable, December 18, 1792, conveyed to Samuel Ward, for 
j^ 100,000, 1,280,000 acres, it being the whole of Macomb's Purchase in Nos. 
5 and 6, out of which was excepted 25,000 acres sold to William Inman. 
Samuel Ward, December 20, 1792, conveyed to Thomas Boylston (of Boston), 
for ;^2o,ooo, a tract commencing at the extreme southern angle of Lewis 
County as now bounded, running thence to the mouth of Salmon River, and 
along the lake to Black River, and up that stream to the north bounds of the 
present town of Leyden, and thence to the place of beginning. The course 
of Black River was then supposed to be nearly direct from the High Falls to 
the lake, and this tract was believed to contain about 400,000 acres, but 
when surveyed around by William Cockburn & Son, in 1794, it was found to 
include 817,155 acres ! Ward also sold 210,000 acres to John Julius Anger- 
stein, a wealthy merchant of London, which the latter afterwards sold to 
Gov. John Brown, of Providence, R. I., and which has been commonly 
called Brown's tract, and is yet mostly a wilderness. He also sold 50,000 
acres and 25,000 acres to William Inman, who afterwards figured largely in 
the titles of Lewis County; with the exception of the 685,000 acres thus 
conveyed to Boylston, Angerstein, and Inman he reconveyed, February 27, 
1793, the remainder to Constable. 

On May 21, 1794, Boylston gave a deed of trust of 11 townships to 
George Lee, George Irving, and Thomas Latham, assignees of Lane, Son & 
Fraser, of London, and they conveyed them to John Johnson Phyn, of that 
place (June 2, 1794), in whom, by sundry conveyances and assurances in the 
law, the title became vested. April to, 1795, Phyn appointed William 
Constable his attorney to sell and convey any or all of the Boylston tract, 
who accordingly sold, July 15, 1795, (at $1 per acre, one-quarter paid down 
and the balance in five installments, with mortgage,) to Nicholas Low, Will- 



44 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



iam Henderson, Richard Harrison, and Josiah Ogden Hoffman, a tract of 
300,000 acres, since known as the Black River tract. This purchase com- 
prised Hounsfield, Watertown, Rutland, Champion, Denmark, Henderson, 
Adams, Rodman, Pinckney, Harrisburg, and Lowville. April i, 1796, 
Phyn confirmed this title. The tract was found by measurement to contain 
290,376 acres, to make up which deficiency Constable, in 1796. conveyed 
town No. 2 (Worth), excepting 948 acres in the southeast corner, which he 
reserved for himself. On the last mentioned date Phyn conveyed to Con- 
stable 401,000 acres, being the remainder of the Boylston tract. The pres- 
ent town of Lorraine is in this conveyance. 

William Constable gave his brother James a power of attorney to sell lands 
March 16, 1798, and, to secure the confidence of the Europeans, and others, 
in the validity of his title, he procured from Alexander Hamilton, Richard 
Harrison, J. O. Hoffman (attorney-general of the state), Daniel McKinnen, 
and other eminent lawyers a certificate that they had examined his convey- 
ances and believed them perfect. 

March 22, 1797, Constable conveyed to Marvel Ellis, of Troy, the town 
of Ellisburgh, in accordance with an agreement dated April 11, 1796, except 
3,000 acres, conveyed March 17, 1797, to Robert Brown and Thomas Eddy, 
in the southwest corner of the town. This town was long without a resident 
agent, and from being settled by squatters it acquired the name of No 
God. In June, 1804, Brown and Eddy sold half of this tract to General 
Scriba, and the latter to William Bell. The remainder was exchanged for a 
farm in New Jersey by Lord Bollingbroke. Ellis's purchase, according to 
Medad Mitchell's survey of August, 1795, ^^^ 5i>840 acres, but by a sub- 
sequent survey of B. Wright it covered 52,834 acres. A part of No. 10 
(Sandy Creek) was conveyed November 16, 1796, to Mrs. H, M. Colden, 
for the Earl of Selkirk. Ellis, on the day of his purchase, mortgaged it for 
the payment, and in 1801 he became insolvent. In January, 1802, Con- 
stable filed a bill in chancery, against Ellis and his creditors, to foreclose to 
equity of redemption. May 22, 1803, William Constable died, and his exec- 
utors, James Constable, John McVickar, and Hezekiah B. Pierrepont, were 
advised that the title was perfected by the answer to the bill in chancery, but, 
to put all questions forever at rest, they deemed it advisable to proceed to 
foreclose. It was accordingly advertised and sold under the direction of 
Thomas Cooper, master in chancery, at the Tontine Coffee House, New 
York, March i, 1804, to Daniel McCormick. On March 2 the executors of 
Constable conveyed the town to McCormick, and on the 3d the latter recon- 
veyed to the executors. On April 26, 18 19, a deed of release from the heirs 
of William Constable was executed to H. B. Pierrepont, from whom the title 
of the unsold portions passed to his son, William C. Pierrepont, who in like 
manner acquired the title of Lorraine from Constable. 

The II towns were divided by ballot between the company, August 5, 
1796, Harrison and Hoffman receiving numbers i, 4, 5, 8, and 10, or Houns- 



LAND TITLES. 45 



field, Champion, Denmark, Rodman, and Harrisburg, and 1,283 acres of 
Constable's, No. 2 (Worth), which had been added to make up the amount 
purchased, and was used in " making change " ; Low received 2, 7, and 11, 
or Watertown, Adams, and Lowville, with 1,576 acres of the present town of 
Worth ; and Henderson 3, 6, and 9, or Rutland, Henderson, and Pinckney, 
with 649 acres in Worth. 

These proprietors disposed of their towns as follows ; No. i was sold, the 
north half to Henry Champion and Lemuel Storrs, June 30, 1797, and the 
south part (15,913 acres) to Peter Kemble and Ezra Hounsfield, for $4,000, 
March 10, 1801, who sold to actual settlers through the agency of Elisha 
Camp. The sales of the north part will be given in our account of that town. 
Nos. 2, 7, and 11 were sold by S. Stow, M. S. Miller, and 1. W. Bostwick, of 
Lowville, agents for Low. No. 3 was first partly conveyed to actual settlers 
by Asher Miller and Abel French, when the remaining interest of Henderson 
was conveyed to Dr. Isaac Bronson, of Greenfield, Conn., who gave its 
agency to his brother, Ethel Bronson, with whom it continued till death, 
when it was transferred to George White, who completed the settlements 
with settlers. No. 4 was sold to Champion and Storrs (with the north half 
of i), and by N. Hubbard and A. Lathrop, agents, it was sold to settlers. 
No. 6 began to settle under the same agent as No. 3. In 1806 Jesse Hop- 
kins was appointed agent, and continued about 15 years. Certain lots, 
amounting to 5,716 acres, were sold to Isaac Bronson, June 10, 1807, for 
$10,003.44, and settled by the agents of the latter. No. 8 was settled for 
the proprietors by I. W. Bostwick, agent at Lowville. Harrison and Hoff- 
man continued tenants in common of 5, 8, and 10, until May i, 1805. In 
July, i8og, an instrument was executed securing certain interests of Hoff- 
man to Thomas L. Ogden and Abijah Hammond, and on January 5, 1810, 
Hoffman conveyed to Harrison his interest in these towns. 

The greater part of township 2 (Worth) fell to the share of Harrison and 
Hoffman. It was laid out by Medad Mitchell in 1795 ; and December 23, 
1797, these proprietors made a partition, and Harrison conveyed the north 
half to Hoffman, who, July 16, 1798, made a conveyance to Daniel McCor- 
mick and Charles Smith, in trust, to sell and convey and to keep the money 
until certain debts were paid. Several subsequent transfers were made, which 
are not deemed of sufficient public interest to trace. The title to the south 
part remained with Harrison many years. 

The boundaries of the Eleven Towns were surveyed by Benjamin Wright, 
in April and May, 1796, and the notes from his field book* formed the first 
accurate data possessed in relation to the country south of Black River. 

The islands in the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario were included in 
the original contract to Macomb, with the state, of June 22, 1791, but from 
the uncertainty about the boundary they were not patented till long after. 



See HoMgh's History of Jefferson Cotutty, p. 64. 



46 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



The claim of Macomb passed to Daniel McCormick, and was recognized by 
the commissioners of the land office January 28, 1814, when they directed 
the surveyor-general to survey such islands as were clearly within the limits 
of the state, at the expense of the owner, and a release of damage was to be 
granted, should the lands so laid out hereafter be included in Canada, upon 
the running of the boundary. McCormick sold his interest to D. A. and T. L. 
Ogden, which was also sanctioned by the commissioners, May 14, 181 7. For 
running the boundary agreed upon by the treaty of Ghent Gen. Peter B. 
Porter was appointed commissioner and Samuel Hawkins agent for the 
United States, and John Ogilvie commissioner on the part of Great Britain, 
who met at St. Regis, and, after carefully ascertaining the line of 45° north 
latitude, by a series of astronomical observations, proceeded thence in two 
parties, one to Lake Champlain and the other up the river. In 1818 the lat- 
ter had reached Ogden's Island, and in 1819 their labors were completed. 
Patents were issued for the islands as follows : — 

All the islands in the state, between a line drawn at right angles to the 
river, from the village of Morristown, and a meridian drawn through the 
western point of Grindstone Island, to Elisha Camp, February 15, 1823. 
These islands contained 15,402.9 acres, of which Grindstone Island contained 
5,291, Wells or Wellesly Island 8,068, and Indian Hut Island 369 acres, 
with several smaller ones without names. Patents were also issued to Camp 
on the same day to Stony Island, 1,536 acres; Calf Island, 34.8 acres; Little 
Galloe Island, 48.8 acres; the most of Galloe Island, 2,216.2 acres; and 
Willow Island, half an acre. A patent to the United States, for 30.75 and 
five acres on Galloe Island, was issued December 11, 18 19, and to Melanch- 
thon T. Woolsey, November 3, 1823, for Gull Island, 6.5 acres, and Snake 
Island, 1.4 acres. Cherry Island, in Chaumont Bay, 108.4 acres > Grenadier 
Island, 1,290 acres; and Fox Island, 257.5 acres, were patented to Hezekiah 
B. Pierrepont and others October i, 1824. Five hundred acres on the west- 
ern part of Carleton Island weie patented to Charles Smyth, October 2, 1828. 
A partition deed was executed between Pierrepont, and Joshua Waddington 
and Thomas L. Ogden, November 10, 1824, by which the former received 
Grenadier and Cherry islands. They were sold February 19, 1825, for 
$7,000, to William and Gerardus Post, of New York. These islands had 
been occupied many years by squatters, who with great reluctance yielded 
possession. The jurisdiction of a part of Galloe Island was ceded by the 
legislature to the United States for a lighthouse, by an act of April 21, 1818;. 
that of Tibbets Point (about three acres), January 25, 1827 ; that of Horse 
Island, April 26, 1831 ; and a part of Carleton Island, June 21, 1853. In 
these cessions the state retains concurrent civil and criminal jurisdiction. 



BENCH AND BAR. 47 



BENCH AND BAR OF JEFFERSON COUNTY. 

BY LUTHER J. DORWIN. 

A review of the bench and bar of the county of Jefferson would be incom- 
plete without a brief history of the courts as existing at the time of its organ- 
ization, their origin, jurisdiction, their officers, and how they were appointed. 

The tracing back the courts to their origin has required much time and 
patient investigation, and in the space limited for this article but little more 
than a brief synopsis of their history can be given. Reference to the source 
of authority will be given so that the reader whose curiosity may desire the 
details, and who may be interested in the judicial history of the state, can 
obtain the desired information. 

The administration of justice in this county at the time of its organization. 
and thereafter was part of the judicial system of the whole state, differing in 
many essentials from that now in force. It may be stated here that the 
source of information from which the writer has derived most of the facts 
here related is the account of the Judicial Organization of the State, and of 
its tribunals, from the time of its settlement by the Dutch in 1623 until the 
adoption of the state constitution of 1846, written by Hon. Charles P. Daly, 
one of the judges of the Court of Common Pleas of the city of New York,, 
and published introductory in the first volume of E. D. Smith's report of 
cases argued and determined in the Court of Common Pleas of the city of 
New York. 

Courts had existed in the colony of New York prior to 1682, but in that 
year Dongan was appointed governor. In Dongan the power to create courts 
was vested, as also the power to convene a general representative assembly, 
and one was convened to whom Dongan left the matter of creating the courts. 

The Assembly met in 1683, and on October 30th of that year passed " The 
Charter of Liberties and Privileges granted by his Eoyal Highness to the in- 
habitants of New York and its dependences," a copy of which is in the 
appendix No. 2, of 2 Rev. Laws of 18 13. 

They also passed an act dividing the provinces of New York into 12 coun- 
ties, a copy of which is also in the foregoing appendix, marked No. 3. This 
was passed and approved November i, 1683. On October 29, 1683, they 
passed an act to settle courts of justice, a copy of which is in the foregoing 
appendix, marked No. 4. The courts thus established were in operation to 
the year 169 1. In 1688 Dongan was recalled and Lieutenant-Governor 
Nicholson acted as governor until the arrival of Governor Stoughton in 
1691. In the same year he convened a representative assembly, and being 
under the impression that none of the acts of the General Assembly of 1683 
and 1684 had been affirmed by James, and were therefore null and void, they 
passed an act for the general judicial organization of the province. By this 



.48 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



I 



act the present Supreme Court was created; also justices of the peace in 
the several towns in place of town courts, and created a Court of Common 
Pleas for each county except New York and Albany ; and Courts of General 
Sessions of the Peace for each of the counties, and made the same provision 
for a Court of Chancery which had been made by the act of 1683. These 
courts thus organized continued down to the Revolution, and the adoption of 
the constitution of 1777, without material change. In a note to Judge Daly's 
article he says: "This act will be found in the first edition of the colonial 
laws printed by Bradford in 1694, the only perfect copy of which now sup- 
posed to exist is in the library of a private gentleman in New York. It has 
also been reprinted in the appendix to 2 Paine & Duer's Practice, 715." It 
is deemed of sufficient importance to reprint it here as an appendix to this 
article, together with the introductory remarks by Paine and Duer. By this 
act it was provided that there should be one judge with three justices in each 
CQunty, appointed and commissioned to hold the same Court of Pleas, three 
whereof to be a quorum, " and that the several and respective courts hereby 
established shall have jurisdiction to hear, try, and determine all actions, or 
causes of actions, and all matters and things and causes tryable at the com- 
mon law of what nature or kind soever." It also provided that there should 
be appointed and commissioned for that purpose one clerk of the court to 
draw, enter, and keep the records, etc.; one marshal, or crier of the court, to 
call the jurors and proclaim the commands and orders of the court. It also 
established a Supreme Court of Judicature, and "that there be five justices 
at least appointed and commissioned to hold the same court, two whereof, 
together with one chief justice, to be a quorum," which Supreme Court " is 
hereby fully empowered and authorized to have cognizance of all Pleas, 
Civil, criminal, and mixt, as fully and amply to all intents and purposes what- 
soever as the Courts of King's Bench, Common Pleas, and Exchequer within 
their Majesties Kingdom of England have or ought to have." 

And it was further provided "that all and every of the justices or judges 
of the several courts thereby established be and thereby were sufficiently 
empowered to make, order, and establish all such rules and orders for the 
more orderly practicing and proceeding in the said courts as fully and amply, 
to all intents and purposes whatsoever, as all or any of the said judges of the 
several courts of King's Bench, Common Pleas, and Exchequer in England 
legally do." 

By this act a Court of Chancery was established, and it was provided " that 
the Governor and Council be the said High Court of Chancery, and have and 
keep the said court, and that the governor may depute, nominate, and 
appoint in his stead a Chancellor and be assisted with such other persons of 
the council as shall by him be thought fit and convenient, together with all 
necessary officers, clerks, and registers as to the said High Court of Chancery 
are needful." 

These courts remained practically unchanged and constituted the judicial 



BENCH AND BAR. 49 



tribunals of the state down to the adoption of the first constitution of this 
state in 1777. This constitution made no change in the organization or 
jurisdiction of either of these courts. It provided for the appointment of all 
their officers, — that of chancellor, judges of the Supreme Court, and the first 
judge of every County Court by the governor, and to hold their offices during 
good behavior, or until they shall respectively attain the age of 60 years ; 
that sheriffs and coroners be thus annually appointed, but no one person to 
hold either of said offices more than four years successively; that the 
registers and clerks in chancery be appointed by the chancellor, the clerks of 
the Supreme Court by the judges of said court ; all attorneys thereafter to 
be appointed by the court and licensed by the first judge of the court in which 
they shall respectively plead or practice, and be regulated by the rules and 
orders of the said courts. It further provided that new commissions shall be 
issued to judges of the county courts (other than to the first judge) and to 
justices of the peace, one at least in every three years. By this constitution 
a court for the trial of impeachments and the correction of errors was for the 
first time established, — familiarly known as the " Court of Errors," — which 
continued as thus organized until the constitution of 1846. 

The counties of Jefferson and Lewis were organized in one act passed 
March 28, 1805. In this act were the following provisions, viz.: Sec. 4. 
" And be it further enacted, That there shall be held in and for the said 
counties of Jefferson and Lewis, respectively, a Court of Common Pleas and 
General Sessions of the Peace, and that there shall be two terms of the said 
courts in each of the counties respectively in every year, to commence and 
end as follows, that is to say: The first term of the said court in the said 
county of Jefferson shall begin on the second Tuesday of June in every year, 
and may continue to be held until the Saturday following, inclusive, and the 
second term of the said court in the said county of Jefferson shall begin on 
the second Tuesday in December in every year, and may continue to be held 
until the Saturday following, inclusive. Similar provisions as to Lewis 
County. And provided further, That the first of the said courts in each of 
the said counties should be held on the second Tuesday of December next. 
Sec. 9. And be it further enacted. That no Circuit Court, or Court of Oyer 
and Terminer, and General Gaol dehvery shall be held in either of the said 
counties of Jefferson and Lewis until the same shall, in the opinion of the 
justices of the Supreme Court, become necessary." 

The courts as thus organized continued until the adoption of the second 
constitution of this state, which took effect January i, 1823. By this consti- 
tution the Supreme Court consisted of a chief justice and two justices. It 
further provided that the state be divided by law into a convenient number 
of circuits, not less than four nor exceeding eight, subject to alteration by 
the legislature from time to time, as the public good may require ; " for each 
of which a circuit judge shall be appointed in the same manner and hold his 
office by the same tenure as the justices of the Supreme Court, and who shall 



50 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



possess the powers of justices of the Supreme Court at chambers, and in the 
trial of issues joined in the Supreme Court ; and in courts of Oyer and 
Terminer and gaol delivery and such equity powers may be vested in said 
circuit judges, or in the county courts, or in such other subordinant courts 
as the legislature may by law direct, subject to the appellate jurisdiction of 
the chancellor." It further provided that the judges of county courts should 
hold their offices for five years. 

Under this constitution an act was passed by the legislature of this state, 
April 17, 1823, dividing the state into eight circuits, corresponding with the 
then senatorial districts, and providing for the appointment of judges for said 
circuits, and defining their powers and jurisdiction. By this act it was further 
provided that the said circuit judges shall have, within the limits of their re- 
spective circuits, concurrent jurisdictions with the chancellor of this state of 
all matters and causes in equity of every description and character, subject, 
however, in all cases, to the appellate jurisdiction of the chancellor. The 
courts thus organized remained uncharged down to the constitution of 1846. 

On the nth day of December, 1805, the following persons took and filed 
their oaths as attorneys before Henry Coffeen, clerk, viz.: Augustus Sacket, 
Moss Kent, Samuel C. Kannady, Benjamin Skinner, and Egbert Ten Eyck. 
And on the nth day of June, 1806, Elisha Camp took and filed his oath as 
such, and on the loth day of December, 1806, Thomas Y. Howe did the same. 
Augustus Sacket was appointed first judge of the Common Pleas, and on the 
25th day of March, 1807, he qualified as such by taking and filing the follow- 
ing oaths, which, as a specimen of what was required, not only by attorneys, 
but by all office-holders, are given here, viz.: — 

" I, Augustus Sacket, do solemnly and sincerely swear and declai-e that I will support the 
Constitution of the United States. 

"Augustus Sacket. 

"Taken and subscribed this 25 day of March, 1807, before me, Perley Keyes, one of the 
Judges of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Jefferson." 

"I, Aiigustus Sacket, do solemnly, without any mental reservation or equivocation what- 
soever, swear and declare that I renounce and abjure all allegiance and subjection to all and 
every foreign king, prince, potentate, and state in all matters, ecclesiastical as well as civil, and 
that I will bear faith and true allegiance to the State of New York as a free and independent 
State. 

" Augustus Sacket. 

"Taken and subscribed this 25 day of March, 1807, before me, Perley Keyes, one of the 
Judges of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Jefferson." 

"I, Augustus Sacket, do solemnly swear and declare that I will, to the best of my know- 
ledge and ability, execute the office of First Judge of the Court of Common Pleas in and for 
the County of Jefferson, according to the constitution and laws of the State of New York, in 
defence of the freedom and independence thei-eof, and for the maintenance of liberty and the 
distribution of Justice among the citizens of the said state without any fear, favor, partiality, 
affection, or hope of reward. 

" Augustus Sacket. 

"Taken and subscribed this 25 day of March, 1807, before me, Perley Keyes, one of the 
Judges of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Jefferson," 



BENCH AND BAR. 51 



The first term of the County Court, of which there is any record, was held 
on the second Tuesday of May, 1807, at the school-house next south of 
Jonathan Cowan's mill, in the town of Watertown. Present, Augustus 
Sacket, first judge; Joshua Bealls, Perley Keyes, judges ; Thomas White, 
assistant justice. 

Samuel Whittlesey was at this time district attorney. The attorneys who 
appeared in court at this time were Isaac W. Bostwick, Samuel C. Kannady, 
Benjamin Skinner, Elisha Camp, Samuel Whittlesey, and John Kirkland. 
As at this time no judgments were entered on default in vacation the record 
was a very good indication of the business and standing of attorneys. 

The next term of the court was held at the same place on the second 
Tuesday of August, 1807, before the same judges. At this term the name 
of Thomas Y. Howe, Amos Benedict, and Moss Kent appeared as attorneys 
on the record. At this term of the court the gaol liberties were estab- 
lished, and also the following order was entered, viz.: — 

"Ordered that the present rules of the Supreme Court of Judicature of the State of New 
York for the admission of attorneys and counsellors be adopted by this court, except the dis- 
tinction between attorneys and counsellors, and excepting that attorneys and counsellors from 
other states shall not be admitted to practice as attorneys or counsellors of this court unless 
such attorney or attorneys, counsellor or counsellors, shall produce a certificate from a regu- 
larly practicing attorney of this court of having served a regular clerkship for the term of 
three years in the office of said attorney." 

The records of the court were often imperfectly kept. At some of the 
terms there is no record of the judges holding the same; and until about the 
year 18 15 there is no record of any order admitting attorneys to practice. 
Their names have been obtained from their oaths as such, found on file, and, 
in some instances, from their appearing upon the records in the trial of cases 
as such attorneys. In the Supreme Court an attorney was required to prac- 
tice three years before he could be admitted to practice as a counselor. The 
admission as attorney did not entitle him to try or argue causes in court. But 
in the Common Pleas the admission as attorney was also an admission to 
practice as counselor. 

The knowledge of the courts, by whom held, both of the Common Pleas 
and of the Supreme Court, now possessed by the community, is derived 
wholly by tradition, and is very indefinite. As much speculation and curi- 
osity is often manifested as to the same it is deemed proper to give here the 
terms of the courts, and when and by whom held, both of the Common 
Pleas and the Supreme Court, from the organization of the county in 1805 
to the time the constitution of 1846 went into operation; the names of the 
attorneys admitted during that time; and the various officers of the court, so 
far as may be gleaned from the records. The acts of the legislature chang- 
ing the time of holding the terms is not noticed, being essential only as ac- 
counting for the variation from the act of organization of the courts. 

First, to continue the history of the Common Pleas and General Sessions. 



52 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



December Term, 1807. — Joshua Bealls, Parley Keyes, judges ; Thomas 
White, Lyman Ellis, William Hunter, assistant justices. 

May Term, 1808. — Augustus Sacket, first judge; Joseph Clark, Thomas 
White, Lyman Ellis, judges. 

August Term, 1808. — Joshua Bealls, Joseph Clark, Thomas White, 
Lyman Ellis, judges. 

December Term, 1808. — Augustus Sacket, first judge; Joseph Clark, 
Joshua Bealls, Lyman Ellis, Thomas White, judges. 

May Term, 1809. — Same as December term, 1808, at school-house south of 
Jonathan Cowan's mill. 

July Term, 1809. — Court-House. Joseph Clark, Thomas White, Lyman 
Ellis, judges ; Curtis Hinds, William Hunter, assistant justices. 

October Term, 1809. — Joshua Bealls, Thomas White, Lyman Ellis, 
judges. 

March Term, 1810. — Joshua Bealls, Thomas White, Joseph Clark, Lyman 
Ellis, judges. 

July Term, 18 10. — Moss Kent, first judge, appeared and took his seat on 
Thursday. Other judges not named. 

October Term, 1810. — Moss Kent, first judge ; Joshua Bealls, Joseph 
Clark, Thomas White, Lyman Ellis, judges. 

March Term, 1811. — Moss Kent, first judge; Joseph Clark, Thomas 
White, judges. 

July Term, i8ii. — Moss Kent, first judge ; Joseph Clark, Thomas White, 
judges. 

October Term, 1811. — Moss Kent, first judge; Joseph Clark, Joshua 
Bealls, Lyman Ellis, judges. 

March Term, 181 2. — Moss Kent, first judge; Joseph Clark, Thomas White, 
Joshua Bealls, Lyman Ellis, judges. 

July Term, 181 2. — Moss Kent, first judge; Joseph Clark, Thomas White, 
Joshua Bealls, Lyman Ellis, judges. 

October Term, 1812. — Moss Kent, first judge; Joseph Clark, Eliphalet 
Edmonds, judges. 

March Term, 18 13. — Moss Kent, first judge ; Joshua Bealls, Lyman Ellis, 
Abel Cole, judges. 

July Term, 1813. — The only caption to the proceedings at this term is 
simply as July Term, 1813, and no date can be found in any of the proceed- 
ings. But in the records of the General Sessions held at the same time the 
following names appear: Ethel Bronson, John Brown, Noadiah Hubbard, 
Jabez Foster, judges. 

October Term, 1813. — Moss Kent, first judge; Ethel Bronson, Jabez 
Foster, judges. 

March Term, 1814. — Jabez Foster, John Brown, Noadiah Hubbard, judges. 

July Term, 181 4. — Moss Kent, first judge; Jabez Foster, Ethel Bronson,. 
judges. 



BENCH AND BAR. 53 



October Term, 1814. — Jabez Foster, Noadiah Hubbard, Wolcott Hub- 
bell, William Baker, judges. 

March Term, 1815. — Joshua Bealls, Joseph Clark, Lyman Ellis, Abel 
Cole, judges. 

July Term, 1815, — Present, Joshua Bealls, Joseph Clark, Lyman Ellis,. 
Samuel Whittlesey, judges. 

October Term, 1815. — Present, Moss Kent, first judge; Joshua Bealls, 
Joseph Clark, Lyman Ellis, Abel Cole, judges. 

March Term, 18 16. — Present, Joseph Clark, Joshua Bealls, Lyman Ellis, 
Eliphalet Edmonds, judges. 

First Tuesday in July, 1816. — Joseph Clark, Joshua Bealls, Lyman Ellis, 
judges. The attorneys of record at this term were C. E. Clarke, Amos Hol- 
ton, M. Sterling, H. Emerson, T. C. Chittenden, S. Beardsley, J. Butterfield,^ 
Ten Eyck & Channing (admitted March 12, 1812), Ely & Camp, D. W. 
Bucklin, G. Smith, L. Munson. B. Wright, I. W. Bostwick, Bostwick & TaL 
cott, A. Lathrop, Wardwell & Rossiter, Ela Collins, J. P. Rossiter. 

October Term, 1816. — Joshua Bealls, Joseph Clark, Lyman Ellis, Abel 
Cole, judges; Amasa Trowbridge, assistant justice. 

December Term, 1816. — Same judges. 

March Term, 181 7. — Same judges. 

July Term, 1817. — Joseph Clark, Lyman Ellis, judges ; Amasa Trowbridge, 
assistant justice. 

October Term, 1817. — Joseph Clark, Lyman Ellis, Abel Cole, judges. 

December Term, 181 7. — Joseph Clark, Lyman Ellis, Abel Cole, judges. 

March Term, 1818. — Elijah Fields, Lyman Ellis, William Robinson, 
Amasa Trowbridge, judges. 

July, 181 8. — Amasa Trowbridge, Calvin McKnight, Lyman Ellis, judges. 

December Term, 18 18. — Amasa Trowbridge, William Robinson, Lyman 
Ellis, Abel Cole, judges. 

March Term, 18 19. — Abel Cole, Calvin McKnight, Aaron Palmer, judges. 

July, 1819. — Abel Cole, first judge; Calvin McKnight, Aaron Palmer, 
judges. 

October, 1819. — Same judges. 

December, 1819. — Abel Cole, first judge; William Robinson, Elijah Fields, 
judges. 

March Term, 1820. — Abel Cole, first judge; Hart Massey, Elijah Fields, 
judges. 

July Term, 1820. — Abel Cole, William Robinson, Hart Massey, Elijah 
Fields, judges. 

October Term, 1820. — William Robinson, Elijah Fields, S. C. Kannady, 
Hart Massey, judges. 

December Term, 1820. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge ; Elijah Fields, S. C. 
Kannady, Hart Massey, judges. 
4* 



54 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



March Term, 1821. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge; Joseph Hawkins, 
Hiram Steele, judges. 

July Term, 1821. — E. Ten Eyck, first judge; Hiram Steele, Richard 
Goodell, side judges. 

October Term, 1821. — Richard Goodell, Joseph Hawkins, Eliphalet Ed- 
monds, judges. 

December Term, 182 1. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge ; Richard Goodell, 
Hiram Steele, judges. 

March Term, 1822. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge; Hiram Steele, Joseph 
Hawkins, judges. 

July Term, 1822. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge; Richard Goodell, Hiram 
Steele, judges. 

October Term, 1822. — E. Ten Eyck, first judge; Hiram Steele, Richard 
Goodell, Joseph Hawkins, judges. 

December Term, 1822. — E. Ten Eyck, first judge ; Hiram Steele, Joseph 
Hawkins, Eliphalet Edmonds, judges. 

March Term, 1823. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge; Zeno Allen, Joseph 
Hawkins, judges. 

July Term, 1823. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge; Joseph Hawkins, Zeno 
Allen, A. S. Greene, judges. 

October Term, 1823. — E. Ten Eyck, first judge; A. S. Greene, Joseph 
Hawkins, Zeno Allen, judges. 

December Term, 1823. — Zeno Allen, Joseph Hawkins, Eliphalet Ed- 
monds, Alpheus S. Greene, judges. 

March Term, 1824. — Zeno Allen, Alpheus S. Greene, Joseph Hawkins, 
judges. 

July Term, 1824. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge; Alpheus S. Greene, 
Joseph Hawkins, Zeno Allen, judges, 

October Term, 1824. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge ; Zeno Allen, A, S. 
Greene, judges. 

December Term, 1824. — Zeno Allen, Joseph Hawkins, Daniel Wardwell, 
Alpheus S. Greene, judges. 

July Term, 1825. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge; Alpheus S. Greene, 
Daniel Wardwell, judges. 

October Term, 1825. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge ; Zeno Allen, Danie 
Wardwell, A. S. Greene, judges. 

December Term, 1825. — Joseph Hawkins, Zeno Allen, Alpheus S. Greene, 
judges. 

March Term, 1826. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge ; Zeno Allen, Alpheus 
S. Greene, Joseph Hawkins, judges. 

September Term, 1826. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge; Zeno Allen, Dan- 
iel Wardwell, Alpheus S. Greene, Joseph Hawkins, judges. 

December Term, 1826. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge; Daniel Wardwell, 
Alpheus S. Greene, Zeno Allen, judges. 



BENCH AND BAR. 55 



February Term, 1827. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge ; Joseph Hawkins, 
Zeno Allen, judges. 

June Term, 1827. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge; Joseph Hawkins, Zeno 
Allen, A. S. Greene, judges. 

September Term, 1827. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge ; Zeno Allen, Dan- 
iel Wardwell, Joseph Hawkins, judges. 

December Term, 1827. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge ; Daniel Wardwell, 
Zeno Allen, judges. 

February Term, 1828. — Egbert Ten Eyck, first judge ; Zeno Allen, Joseph 
Hawkins, judges ; Josiah Bealls, crier. 

June Term, 1828. — Daniel Wardwell, Zeno Allen, Alpheus S. Greene, 
judges. 

February Term, 1829. — Calvin McKnight, first judge ; George Brown, Jr., 
Zeno Allen, John Macumber, judges. 

June Term, 1829. — Calvin McKnight, first judge; Zeno Allen, George 
Brown, Benjamin Wright, judges. 

September Term, 1829. — Calvin McKnight, first judge; George Brown, 
Benjamin Wright, John Macumber, judges. 

December Term, 1829. — Calvin McKnight, first judge; George Brown, 
John Macumber, Zeno Allen, judges. 

February Term, 1830. — No judges recorded. 

June Term, 1830. — Calvin McKnight, first judge; George Brown, John 
Macumber, Zeno Allen, judges. 

September Term, 1830. — Calvin McKnight, first judge; Benjamin Wright, 
John Macumber, George Brown, Zeno Allen, judges. 

December Term, 1830. — Calvin McKnight, first judge; Benjamin Wright, 
George Brown, Zeno Allen, John Macumber, judges. 

February Term, 1831. — Calvin McKnight, first judge; Benjamin Wright, 
John Macumber, George Brown, Zeno Allen, judges. 

June Term, 1831. — Calvin McKnight, first judge; George Brown, Zeno 
Allen, John Macumber, Benjamin Wright, judges. 

September'Term, 183 1. — Same judges. 

December Term, 1831. — Same judges. 

February Term, 1832. — Same except B. Wright. 

June Term, 1832. — All judges as above. 

September Term, 1832. — All judges as above. 

December Term, 1832. — All judges as above. 

February Term, 1833. — All except B. Wright. 

May Term, 1833. — Present, Calvin McKnight, first judge ; George Brown, 
Zeno^ Allen, John Macumber, Benjamin Wright, judges. 

September Term, 1833. — Present, same judges. 

December Term, 1833. — Present, same judges. 

May Term, 1834. — Present, same judges. 

September Term, 1834. — Present, same judges. 



56 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



December Term, 1834. — Present, same judges. 

February Term, 1835. — Present, same judges. 

May Term, 1835. — Present, same judges. 

September Term, 1835. — Present, same judges. 

December Term, 1835. — Present, same judges. 

February Term, 1836. — Present, same judges. 

May Term, 1836. — Present, same judges. 

September Term,* 1836. — Present, Calvin McKnight, first judge; John> 
Macumber, George Brown, judges. 

December Term, 1836. — Present, all the judges. 

February Term, 1837. — Present, all the judges. 

May Term, 1837. — Present, all the judges. 

September Term, 1837. — Present, all the judges. 

December Term, 1837. — Present, all the judges. 

February Term, 1838. — Present, all the judges. 

May Term, 1838. — No record of judges. 

September Term, 1838. — Present, all the judges. 

December Term, 1838. — Present, all the judges. 

February Term, 1839. — Present, all the judges. 

May Term, 1839. — Present, all the judges. 

September Term, 1839. — Present, all the judges. 

December Term, 1839. — Present, all the judges. 

February Term, 1840. — Present, Calvin McKnight, first judge; Zeno Allen,. 
George Brown, judges. 

May Term, 1840. — Present, Thomas C. Chittenden, first judge; Egbert 
Ten Eyck, Marcellus K. Stowe, Eldridge G. Merrick, judges. 

September Term, 1840. — Present, same judges and Hiram Carpenter, 
judge. 

December Term, 1840. — Present, Egbert Ten Eyck, Marcellus K. Stowe,, 
Eldridge G. Merrick, Hiram Carpenter, judges. 

February Term, 1841. — Present, Egbert Ten Eyck, Hiram Carpenter, 
Marcellus K. Stowe, Eldridge G. Merrick, judges. 

May Term, 1841. — Present, Egbert Ten Eyck, Hiram Carpenter, Hiram 
Dewey, judges. 

September Term, 1841. — Present, Thomas C. Chittenden, first judge; 
Egbert Ten Eyck, John Thurman, Hiram Dewey, Hiram Carpenter, judges. 

December Term, 1841. — Present, Egbert Ten Eyck, Hiram Carpenter,. 
John Thurman, Hiram Dewey, judges. 

February Term, 1842. — Present, Egbert Ten Eyck, John Thurman, Hiram 
Dewey, judges. 

May Term, 1S42. — Present, Hiram Carpenter, John Thurman, Hiram 
Dewey, judges. 

September Term, 1842. — Present, Thomas C. Chittenden, first judge;; 
Hiram Carpenter, John Thurman, Hiram Dewey, judges. 



BENCH AND BAR. 57 



December Term, 1842. — Present, Hiram Carpenter, Hiram Dewey, John 
Thurman, judges. 

February Term, 1843. — Present, John Thurman, Hiram Carpenter, Hiram 
Dewey, judges. 

May Term, 1843. — Present, Thomas C. Chittenden, first judge; Hiram 
Carpenter, Hiram Dewey, George C. Sherman, John Thurman, judges. 

September Term, 1843. — Present, Thomas C. Chittenden, first judge; 
George C. Sherman, John Thurman, Hiram Dewey, judges. 

December Term, 1843. — Present, Thomas C. Chittenden, first judge ; John 
Thurman, George C. Sherman, Hiram Carpenter, judges. 

February Term, 1844. — Present, Thomas C. Chittenden, first judge; 
Hiram Dewey, Hiram Carpenter, John Thurman, judges. 

May Term, 1844. — Present, Thomas C Chittenden, first judge ; Hiram 
Dewey, Hiram Carpenter, John Thurman, judges. 

September Term, 1844. — Present, John Thurman, Hiram Dewey, judges, 

December Term, 1844. — Present, Thomas C. Chittenden, first judge 
Hiram Dewey, John Thurman, judges. 

February Term, 1845. — Present, Thomas C. Chittenden, first judge ; Jason 
Clark, Hiram Dewey, judges. 

May Term, 1845. — Present, Calvin Skinner, first judge; George C. Sher- 
man, Jason Clark, Hiram Dewey, John Thurman, judges. 

September Term, 1845. — Present, Calvin Skinner, first judge; Jason 
Clark, Hiram Dewey, John Thurman, judges. 

December Term, 1845. — Present, George C. Sherman, Jason Clark, 
Hiram Dewey, John Thurman, judges. 

February Term, 1846. — Present, Calvin Skinner, first judge; John Thur- 
man, judge. 

May Term, 1846. — Present, Calvin Skinner, first judge ; George C. Sher- 
man, Jason Clark, Joseph Boyer, judges. 

September Term, 1846. — Present, Calvin Skmner, first judge; George C. 
Sherman, Jason Clark, Joseph Boyer, Thomas Waite, judges. 

December Term, 1846. — Present, Calvin Skinner, first judge; George C. 
Sherman, Jason Clark, Joseph Boyer, Thomas Waite, judges. 

February Term, 1847. — Present, Calvin Skinner, first judge; Jason Clark, 
Joseph Boyer, George C. Sherman, judges. 

May Term, 1847. — Present, Calvin Skinner, first judge ; George C. Sher- 
man, Jason Clark, Joseph Boyer, judges. 

The next term of the court was held under the constitution of 1846, when 
the name was changed from Common Pleas to the Jeff"erson County Court, 
and was held by Robert Lansing, the first judge elected under that constitu- 
tion. 



58 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



SUPREME COURT. 

The first Supreme Court held in Jefferson County was on June 17, 1807, 
at the same place where the Court of Common Pleas was held. Present^ 
Hon. Smith Thompson, justice; ' Augustus Sacket, Joshua Bealls, Perley 
Keyes, judges; Lyman Ellis, assistant justice. 

The second, in June, 1808. — Present, Chief Justice Kent; Joseph Clark,. 
Augustus Sacket, Thomas White, judges; Corhs Hinds, assistant justice. 

The third, in June, 1809. — Present, Hon. Joseph C. Yates, justice ; Joseph 
Clark, Joshua Bealls, Thomas White, judges. 

The fourth, in June, 1810. — Present, Ambrose Spencer, justice; Joseph 
Clark, Joshua Bealls, Lyman Ellis, judges. 

The fifth, in June, 181 1. — Present, William W. Van Ness, justice; Joseph 
Clark, Lyman Ellis, Joshua Bealls, judges. 

The sixth, in June, 181 2. — Present, Smith Thompson, justice. There is 
no record of the attendance of any of the county judges at this term. 

The seventh, in June, 181 3. — Present, Joseph C. Yates, justice; Jabez 
Foster, John Brown, Ethel Bronson, judges. 

The eighth, in June, 1814. — Present, William W. Van Ness, justice; Moss 
Kent, Jabez Foster, judges. 

The ninth, in June, 1815. — Present, Ambrose Spencer, justice; Moss Kent^ 
Joseph Clark, judges. 

The tenth, in June, 1816. — Present, William W. Van Ness, justice; Joseph 
Clark, Moss Kent, judges. 

The eleventh, in June, 1817. — Present, Smith Thompson, justice: Joseph 
Clark, Abel Cole, judges. 

The twelfth, in June, 1818. — Present, Jonas Piatt, justice; Abel Cole, 
Amasa Trowbridge, judges. 

The thirteenth, in June, 18 19. — Present, Joseph C. Yates, justice; Calvin 
McKnight, Aaron Palmer, William Robinson, judges. 

The fourteenth must have been in 1820, but the record is blank; probably 
no record was ever made. 

The fifteenth, in June, 1821. — Present, Jonas Piatt, justice; Egbert Ten 
Eyck, Hiram Steele, judges. 

The sixteenth, in June, 1822. — Present, Ambrose Spencer, chief justice; 
Egbert Ten Eyck, Richard Goodell, Hiram Steele, judges. 

This brings us down to the circuit courts held under the constitution 
which took effect January i, 1823. Under this constitution Nathan Will- 
iams was appointed circuit judge for the fifth judicial district, on April 21, 
1823, and continued to serve as such until the appointment in his place of 
Samuel Beardsley, April 19, 1834. It does not appear from the record that 
he ever officiated as such judge, and is supposed to have resigned or not to 
have accepted the appointment, for, on May 7, 1834, Hiram Denio was ap- 



BENCH AND BAR. 



59 



pointed such judge in his place. He officiated until April, 1838. Isaac H, 
Bronson was appointed in the place of Hiram Denio, who resigned on ac- 
count of ill health. Bronson was then a member of Congress from this 
district, and whose vote was wanted in Congress to sustain the administration 
of Martin Van Buren as President ; and for this reason he decHned to accept 
the appointment. In the fall of 1838 he was a candidate for reelection, and 
was defeated. He was subsequently appointed by Van Buren as judge of the 
United States Circuit Court of Florida. He left Watertown and thereafter 
resided in Florida during the remainder of his life. On July 17, 1838, Philo 
Gridley was appointed circuit judge for this district, and immediately entered 
upon the duties thereof; and continued to act as such circuit judge and 
vice-chancellor until July, 1847, when the constitution of 1846 went into 
effect. 

Nathan Williams, circuit judge, held the June and December circuits in 
each year, commencing in June, 1823, to the June circuit, 1830. 

In March, 1829, Esek Cowan, circuit judge, held a court here, at which was 
tried an indictment against three Gillinghams for a nuisance in obstructing 
Perch River. They were convicted and the sheriff directed to remove the 
obstruction. 

At the June Term of this circuit, in 1828, Henry Evans was tried and con- 
victed of murder, and was sentenced to be, and was, hanged on the 2 2d 
of August : H. H. Coffeen, sheriff, Robert Lansing, district attorney, and 
Charles E. Clark for the people; Sterling & Bronson and Nathan Rathbun 
for the prisoner. This execution was a great event, not only in the county, 
but for hundreds of miles around it. Crowds from every direction came for 
a day or two before hand. On that day the writer accompanied his father 
with a team to Watertown, sympathizing with the general excitement, to witness 
the execution. The nearest to the village he could get with his team was a 
house occupied by Theodore Tuttle, on State street. Every other barn 
and yard between that and the court-house, as well as the side streets, were 
filled with teams and carriages. The streets were crowded with people. We 
worked our way to a position near the jail. A little after 12 o'clock a mili- 
tary company, with a band of martial music and a hearse, appeared before the 
jail. Soon the jail door opened and Henry H. Coffeen, followed by the 
prisoner between several deputies, came out and marched directly behind the 
hearse, surrounded by the military, the band with muffled drum playing a 
solemn death march, so-called. The prisoner was a tall, athletic looking man, 
dressed in a white robe and a white cap on his head, being his grave clothes. 
It was said he preferred to walk than to ride. The procession, so formed, 
marched to and across the lower bridge to the place of execution, followed 
by the immense crowd. The gallows was erected on a high point of ground 
on the other side of the river. At that time there were no buildings there. 
It was an open field, to be plainly seen from the south bank of the river. We 
found a place on this bank, where the gallows and the immense crowd on the 



6o JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Other side of the river were in full view. As the prisoner ascended the scaf- 
fold my father placed me upon his shoulders, where I had a full view of the 
whole scene until the criminal was pronounced dead and cut down. After 
he was suspended there were a few convulsive movements of the body, the 
right arm and leg, and all was over. During this time and until he was taken 
down there was almost breathless silence throughout this vast multitude, and 
as the scene closed they turned, and the movement of this mass of men, 
women, and children from the field was a sight never to be forgotten. The 
writer was then but eight years of age ; but the history of that day is as vivid 
in his memory as if it had occurred within a year last past. It is well that 
such public executions have been abolished. 

The June circuit, and Oyer and Terminer for 1830, was held by Samuel 
Nelson, judge of the 6th circuit. Until June, 1834, the court was held by 
Nathan Williams, except the December circuit of 1833, at which no judge 
attended, and the court was adjourned si?ie die by the sheriff. The June cir- 
cuit of 1834 was held by Hiram Denio, as also the subsequent circuits in 
each year until June, 1837. The June circuit of 1837 was held by Charles 
H. Ruggles, judge of the 2d circuit. The December Term of the same year 
was held by Hiram Denio, the last term of this court he ever held. The 
June Term of 1838 was held by John P. Cushman, of the 3d circuit, and the 
next circuit and all subsequent circuits to July, 1847, were held by Philo 
Gridley. 

The first court was held in the school-house next south of Jonathan Cow- 
an's mills, in the village of Watertown, until the term in 1809. Subsequent 
to that they were held in the new court-house, built upon a lot conveyed to 
the county by Henry Coff"een, for the purposes of a court-house and jail ; 
and so long as they should be used for that purpose. The lot was the same 
as the one on which the present jail is situated. This court-house was burned 
in 1 82 1, and a new court-house, of stone, was erected on the same site, in 
which courts were held until 1858 or 1859. The old stone building became 
so dilapidated that it was totally unsuitable for court purposes, and courts 
were held in Apollo Hall on Court street, and in Washington Hall, until the 
erection of the present court-house in 1862. This house was dedicated Oc- 
tober 7, 1862, at which John Clarke, Esq., delivered an able and very interest- 
ing address on the reminiscences of the bench and bar of this county, after 
which a supper, with toasts and speeches, was had at the Woodruff House. 
The occasion was the sitting of the General Term of this district ; present, 
the following judges : Joseph Mullin, Henry A. Foster, Leroy Morgan, and 
William J. Bacon. 

The following are the first judges of the Common Pleas, district attorneys, 
sheriffs, surrogates, and county clerks from the organization of the county, 
with the dates of their appointment and election down to the present time, 
as taken from the civil list: — 



BENCH AND BAR. 



6i 



JUDGES. 



Augustus Sacket February 26, 1807 

Moss Kent February 26, 1810 

Abel Cole February 26, 1818 

Egbert Ten Eyck January 24, 1820 

■Calvin McKnight January 24, 1829 

Thomas C. Chittenden February 28, 1840 



Calvin Skinner April 1, 1845 

Robert Lansing June, 1847 

William C. Thompson November, 1851 

Charles D. Wright . . .November, 1859 

Azariah H. Sawyer November, 1867 

Charles H. Walts November, 1877 



DISTRICT ATTORNEYS. 



Nathan Williams until 1808 

Samuel Whittlesey until 1813 

Amos Benedict. ..appointed March 18, 1813 

Ela Collins June, 1815 

David W. Bucklin June 12, 1818 

Horatio Shumway February 26, 1820 

David W. BuckUn February 13, 1821 

Robert Lansing June 19, 1826 

George C. Sherman February, 1833 

Dyer N. Burnham February, 1840 

Joseph Mullin February, 1843 

Robert Lansing February, 1845 



Joshua Moore, Jr February, 1846 

Joshua Moore, Jr June, 1847 

James F. Starbuck November, 1850 

Delano C. Calvin November, 1853 

David M. Bennett November, 1856 

Bradley Winslow November, 1859 

Lafayette C. Bigelow November, 1862 

Bradley Winslow November, 1865 

Pardon C. Williams November. 1868 

Watson M. Rogers November, 1874 

Edgar C. Emerson November, 1880 



SHERIFFS. 



Abel Sherman April 3, 1805 

Hugh Henderson February 24, 1808 

Perley Keyes March 15, 1808 

David I. Andrus March 16, 1812 

John Paddock February 24, 1813 

David L Andrus February 16, 1815 

Joseph Clark February 26, 1818 

Amasa Trowbridge March 6. 1819 

Jason Fairbanks February 12, 1821 

Jason Fairbanks November, 1822 

Henry H. Cofifeen. November, 1825 

John Fay November, 1828 

Heman Millard November, 1831 

Chauncey Baker November, 1834 

Abuer Baker November, 1837 

Albert P. Bray ton November, 1840 

Herman Strong November, 1843 



Walter Collins November, 1846 

Rufus Herriek November, 1849 

Daniel C. Rouse November, 1852 

Wells Benton November, 1855 

Abner Baker October 12, 1857 

Tilly R. Pratt November, 1857 

Francis A. Cross November, 1860 

Nathan Strong November, 1863 

James Johnson November, 1866 

Addison W. Wheelock November, 1869 

George Babbitt November, 1872 

Abner W. Peck November, 1875 

Leonard Seaton November, 1878 

G. Harrison Smith November, 1881 

James M. Felt November, 1884 

Wiliard E. Saxe November, 1887 



SURROGATES. 



Benjamin Skinner April 3, 1805 

Amasa Trowbridge February 12, 1811 

John M. Canfield March 15, 1811 

Ehsha Camp February 26, 1813 

David Perry June 27, 1815 

Lyman Munson April 2, 1816 

Benjamin Wright November 26, 1820 

Lyman Munson February 13, 1821 

Benjamin Wright March 27. 1823 



John Clarke February 28, 1840 

Nathaniel P. Wardwell February 28, 1844 

Ly Sander H. Browu June, 1847 

James R. A. Perkins November, 1851 

Milton H. Merwin November, 1859 

David M. Bennett November, 1863 

William W. Taggart November, 1867 

Ross C. Scott November, 1877 



62 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



CLERKS. 



Henry Cofifeen .April 3, 1805 

Egbert Ten Eyck March 5, 1807 

Benjamin Skinner February 12, 1811 

Richard M. Esselstyn February 26, 1813 

Benjamin Skinner February 16, 1815 

George Andrus June 3, 1820 

Henry H. Sherwood February 13, 1821 

Henry H. Sherwood November, 1822 

Peleg Burchard November, 1828 

Daniel Lee November, 1840 

Charles B. Hoard November, 1843 



James G. Lynda November, 184& 

Isaac Munson November, 18^9 

John L. Marsh November, 1852 

Russell B. Biddlecom November, 185& 

Dexter Wilder November, 1861 

Nelson D. Ferguson November, 1867 

Jacob Stears, Jr November, 1870 

George Cole November, 187& 

Fred Waddingham November, 187* 

O. De Grasse Greene November, 1885' 



The effort has been made to ascertain the names of all the attorneys who 
were admitted to practice in the Court of Common Pleas in this county, from 
its organization to July, 1847. Th's has been attended with great difficulty^ 
and much uncertainty. Prior to 18 15 no order of the court admitting at- 
torneys is found upon the record. The information has been derived from 
the oaths as such attorneys found on file, and from their first appearance 
upon the records of the court, and in some cases solely from tradition. From 
1815, thenceforth, orders were entered, and particularly after 1820. It is- 
not claimed that the list is accurate, but it is as much so as can at this day 
be determined from the data at hand. 



ATTORNEYS, ETC. 

May Term, 1807. — The attorneys admitted up to this time ascertained as 
before stated were as follows: Augustus Sacket, Benjamin Skinner, Moss 
Kent, Egbert Ten Eyck, Samuel C. Kannady, Elisha Camp, Thomas Y. 
Howe, Thomas Skinner, Isaac W. Bostwick, John Kirkland. 

At the August Term, 1807, the following additional attorneys appeared: 
Samuel Whittlesey and Amos Benedict. 

At the December Term, 1807. — Lyman Munson. 

May Term, 1808.— Ela Collins. 

August Term, 1808 — Henry R. Storrs, Boswick & Allen. 

December Term, 1808, — Artemus Stoel. 

May Term, i8og. — Skinner & Sterling. 

March Term, i8ro. — Micah Sterling and William Brown. 

March Term, 181 1. — Alfred Lathrop, David W. Bucklin, Popham & Rad- 
cliff, Wright & Camp, William S. Radcliff, David Perry, Canfield & Brown. 

March Term, 181 2. — Ely & Camp. 

July Term, 1812. — H. W. Channing. 

October Term, 1813. — Justin Butterfield, Samuel A. Talcott, Enoch Ely, 
Thomas C. Chittenden. 

1814. — Barnabas Yale, March Term ; Daniel Wardell, July Term. 



BENCH AND BAR. 63 



1815. — Harlow Emerson, Amos Holton, J. Rossiter, March Term; Samuel 
Beardsley, July Term ; George Smith, Charles E. Clarke, October Term. 

18 1 7. — Baron S. Doty, Abel P. Vosburgh, William D. Ford, John Cooke, 
Cornelius Low, July Term ; H. Leavenworth, October Term. 

18 1 8. — David Brooks, Jr. 

18 1 9. — Charles Hayden, E. Smith Lee. 

1820. — Charles Dayan, March Term ; Robert Lansing, July Term ; John 
McCarty, Horatio Shumway, December Term. 

1822. — George P. Bond, March Term ; Dyer Tillinghast, July Term ; 
Benajah B. Phelps, December Term. 

1823. — George C. Sherman, January Term ; Isaac H. Bronson, October 
Term ; John Adams, December Term. 

1824. — Perley G. Keyes, March Term ; Jeduthan Steele. 

1825. — John Clarke, July Term ; Edward Fowler, March Term. 

1826. — Alexander W. Stowe, March Term ; Calvin Skinner, Orson Par- 
ker, Bernard Bagley, June Term. 

1828. — Marenus W. Mathews, June Term, 

1829. — Edwin Dodge, June Term ; Edmund M. Eldridge, Stockwell 
Osgood, February Term. 

1830. — Horace How, William A. Greene, June Term. 

1831. — John W. Tamblin, Alfred D. Rathbun, Edward B. Hawes, William 
Ruger, February Term ; Andrew Z. McCarty, September Term ; William 
H. Shumway, Henderson Spencer, Jason Marsh, Dyer N. Burnhara, Decem- 
ber Term. 

1832. — Albert Richmond, Samuel G. Watson, Sanford M. Green, June 
Term. 

1833. — Peter Yates, February Term; Augustus Ford, September Term ; 
Nathan Rathbun, July Term. 

1834. — John S. Bagg, February Term; Anthony Ten Eyck, George A. 
Benedict, September Term. 

1835. — Ahera G. Eastman, Charles Mason, September Term. 

1836. — Gouverneur M. Bucklin, September Term; Cyrus H. Stone, 
December Term. 

J 837. — Alonzo M. Watson, May Term ; Joseph Mullin, Westel W. Wager, 
December Term. 

1838. — Frederick W. Hubbard, George W. Hungerford, September Term ; 
Wooster Sherman, December Term. 

1839. — George Camp, February Term ; William C. Thompson, Stephen G. 
Dodge, May Term ; Lysander H. Brown, Allen Nims, Randolph Barnes, 
John Henry Dutton, Charles D.Wright, September Terra ; Nathaniel P. Ward- 
well, Joseph Curtis Pattridge, Jasper W. Gilbert, Joshua Moore, John F. 
Hutchinson, December Term. 

1840. — Marcus Bickford, February Term ; William A. Forward, May Term ; 
Lawrence J. Goodale. 



■64 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



1842. — Joseph W. Brackett, George R. Fairbanks, May Term ; David J 
Wager, December Term. 

1843. — Gould T. Curtis, February Term ; Eugene C. Leis, Luther J. Dor- 
win, James F. Starbuck, Wellington W. Butterfield, May Term ; Laban H. 
Ainsworth, Charles W. Rogers, William L. Sherman, Albert A. Hawes, 
September Term. 

1844. — Edwin Clark, February Term ; Richafd S. Hunt, James R. A. Per- 
kins, May Term ; John P. Brown, December Term. 

1845. — Augustus D. B. Goodale, Isaac Van Vleck, December Term. 

1846. — Levi H. Brown, WiUiam A.Gilbert, February Term ; Merritt Andrus, 
Stephen J. Hubbard, May Term ; Richard Ely, September Term ; Silas A. 
Webb, Edmund B. Wynn, William A. Ely, December Term. 

1847. — Samuel B. Starr, Samuel Wardwell, Alexander Wilson, Albert B. 
Gilbert, February Term ; Oliver Robbins, May Term. 

Of the life and character of the judges of the early history of this county 
but little is necessarily known. Many of them were laymen, never having 
been members of the bar, and were appointed for political reasons, as well as 
for their prominent standing in the community. So far as can be ascertained, 
without much time and difficulty at this time, a brief statement of each man, 
not a lawyer, who officiated as a judge is here given, those who were at- 
torneys being mentioned with attorneys hereinafter given. 

Augustus Sacket was a very estimable gentleman, from whom Sackets Har- 
bor took its name. He was part proprietor and agent of the lands comprised 
in that village. It does not appear from the record that he officiated in any of 
the courts of this county in any other capacity than that of first judge. 

Perley Keyes resided in Watertown ; an able but uneducated man. He 
had extraordinary judgment upon all matters — a shrewd politician. Events 
of his life have been repeatedly written. In fact by nature he was a man of 
superior intellect and nerve. He was the father of Perley G. Keyes, known 
in his day as Gardner Keyes, and grandfather of Rev. Richard G. Keyes, 
now living in the old homestead in Watertown. He died May 13, 1834. 

Lyman Ellis was a quiet, unostentatious gentleman of EUisburgh, one of the 
pioneers, and a long time agent for the lands there, and who gave name to 
the town. 

Joseph Clark was a resident of Watertown, and a prominent business man, 
owning and carrying on the milling business below the lower bridge on the 
river, and is said to have mingled quite extensively in politics. He was 
father of the late Charles Clark, who died in 1880. 

Eliphalet Edmonds resided in Adams. It is reported that while he held 
the office of judge he was indicted for blasphemy in his own court. He suc- 
cessfully defended himself on the ground that it was simply a theological dis- 
cussion ; and that such discussions were free under the constitution giving 
liberty of speech. 



BENCH AND BAR. 65. 



Ethel Bronson was one of the early settlers of Rutland, was agent of the 
proprietors, and was the father of Isaac H. Bronson hereafter mentioned. 

John Brown resided at Brownville ; was a brother of General Jacob Brown, 
of the army of 1812, from whose father the town took its name. " But in 
the mutations of life it retains now scarcely anything of this family or its 
fortunes but the distinguished name." 

Noadiah Hubbard was one of the very first settlers of the town of Cham- 
pion, and a resident there until a few years since, when he died nearly 100 
years of age. He was the father of Frederick W. Hubbard, one of the jus- 
tices of the Supreme Court from 1852 to 1858, now deceased, and of Mrs. 
George C. Sherman, who is now living, and of Mrs. Robert Lansing now de- 
ceased. 

Jabez Foster was " one of the early and enterprising merchants of Water- 
town, whose name and widely extended business were coincident with the 
early history and prosperity of the town and county, and who always 
mingled with its industry and enterprise." 

Amasa Trowbridge was a surgeon in the army of 1812, under Maj.- Gen- 
eral Jacob Brown. After the war he settled in Watertown, and continued 
the family physician of Gen. Brown until the latter's death by apoplexy. 
He became one of the most eminent surgeons in the country. He was a 
man of great energy and nerve, lived to an old age, and died in Watertown 
a few years since. 

Samuel Whittlesey. — See among the list of lawyers. 

Elijah Fields resided in the town of Watertown, nearly on the line be- 
tween that town and Hounsfield, known as Fields Settlement, and was 
the owner of considerable land in that vicinity, and a hotel, which was kept 
there, and after was well known for years as the Myrick Brown place. 

Calvin McKnight resided in Watertown, was an amiable and upright gen- 
tleman, not so noted for his legal ability or learning as for his integrity. He 
was the judge who gave the opinion on the office of demurrer. 

Aaron Palmer resided in Champion, was a justice of the peace there, and 
in his own opinion was one of the most important men in the county. He 
kept the hotel in Champion village for years. His strict integrity and court- 
esy to all gained the confidence of his townsmen. He drew most of the 
contracts and conveyances in that section, and his want of knowledge of the 
requirements of such business has rendered the tracing of title through his 
deeds, in many instances, an impossibility at this day. 

Hart Massey was born in Salem, N. H., December 5, 1771 ; came to 
Watertown in 1800; purchased a tract of land on which a portion of the 
city of Watertown is now situated ; moved his family here in 180 1 ; and first re- 
sided in a house where the Paddock Arcade now is, then on the lot now 
owned by E. L. Paddock on Washington street. In 18 12 he built the first 
brick house erected in the county, which is now standing on Massey avenue. 
He was appointed a judge in 1820. He was very efficient in the support of 



66 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



the agricultural interests of the county. His numerous descendants are many 
of them among the prominent business men of the county, and useful mem- 
bers of society. 

Thomas White resided in Rodman at the village called Whitesville, from 
whom the village was named. But little can be learned of his history, except 
that he was a prominent leading man in that community. 

Abel Cole, judge and afterwards first judge of the county, also resided in 
Rodman, where his decendants, many of them, now reside. 

Corlis Hinds resided in the town of Watertown ; was a farmer, living in a 
stone house which is now standing south of the city limits. He was called 
captain, having previously held that rank as a seaman. 

William Hunter resided in Adams. His particular history has not been 
ascertained. 

William Baker resided at Sackets Harbor, and is said to have been the 
father of the late Josiah Baker and Thomas Baker, but this information is 
not very well authenticated. 

Wolcott Hubbell resided in Champion; was a resident there with Egbert 
Ten Eyck at an early day. He was the owner of considerable property in 
what is now called West Carthage. 

William Robinson resided in Brownville. His business has not been ascer- 
tained. Some of his descendants now, or did lately, reside in the village of 
Brownville. 

Samuel C. Kannady was a prominent lawyer, surveyor, and the agent of 
Le Ray, in addition to being judge. Many of the deeds of Le Ray are 
signed by Mr. Kannady as attorney. He is represented as having been an 
able lawyer and business man. 

Joseph Hawkins resided in Henderson. There is no record of his acts, 
except in politics. He is represented to have been the first man that over- 
matched Perley Keyes in political management, having defeated him for 
Congress in 1828. — See Hough's History, page 431. 

Richard Goodell resided in Adams. He is remembered as a large and fine 
looking man, and as having ability and influence, and a strong Keyes man. 

Zeno Allen resided at Sackets Harbor. There are many anecdotes related 
of him during his long period on the bench. His perceptions were slow. 
Sometimes, after others had ceased to laugh at some humorous story, he would 
break out laughing all alone, the gist of the story having just come through 
his mind. Yet he was of sound judgment, and had a good standing as judge. 

Alpheus S. Greene was by profession a physician. He lived for some time 
at a place the other side of the bridge, across Perch River, on the road to 
Gunn's Corners. He moved thence to Watertown, and resided on the corner 
of Washington and Clinton streets until his death. He was reputed a good 
physician ; was influential and active in politics ; was postmaster at Water- 
town, and held other important offices from time to time. 

George Brown resided at Brownville ; was one of the most dignified and 



BENCH AND BAR. 67 



venerable men in the county. He was, during the most of his life, a justice 
■of the peace in that town, before whom many important trials were had, and 
the best lawyers of the county did not hesitate to appear before him. It is 
said his court was, at all times, as dignified and orderly as the Supreme Court. 
He was postmaster for years, and had the utmost confidence of the com- 
munity in his ability and integrity. He was a member of the state Assembly 
in 1819, and secured the passage of the law erecting the town of Pamelia 
from Brownville, giving it the name of the wife of General Brown. He was 
paternal uncle of Lysander H.Brown, mentioned in the sketches of members 
of the bar. 

John Macumber resided at Evans Mills ; was a man of even temper and 
■cool judgment. He was the father-in-law of John VV. Tamblin, an attorney 
■of this court, and they occupied the same office together at Evans Mills for 
many years. He died at a very old age, highly respected by all. 

Eldridge G. Merrick resided at Clayton ; was the most extensive lumber- 
man in the state, and the owner of the greatest fleet of vessels on the lake. 
He was the soul of honor and integrity, and of great financial ability. It is 
impossible to conceive of any motive he had in accepting the office of county 
judge. He held the office only a short time and resigned. Subsequently he 
removed to Detroit, and remained there the rest of his Hfe. 

Hiram Dewey lived in Orleans. He held the office during the latter part 
of the existence of the old Court of Common Pleas. He was a farmer until 
he became a large stockholder and an officer of the Jefferson County Agri- 
cultural Insurance Company, when he removed to Watertown, and resided 
there until his death. 

John Thurman resided at the village of Dexter, in the town of Brownville ; 
was a clear headed man in business and on the bench. He discharged the 
duties of the office with remarkable ability for a layman. 

Jason Clark resided at Plessis, in Alexandria. He was the general land 
agent for Woodruff and Stocking ; had been a surveyor for Le Ray for many 
years ; was repeatedly elected supervisor of his town. He was an intelligent 
and influential man, and well known throughout the county. 

Joseph Boyer resided at Evans Mills, in Le Ray ; was a large land owner, 
and a man of considerable wealth. He died many years since, leaving a, 
highly respected family, most of whom still reside in this county. 

Thomas Waite resided in Rodman. He was the last of the judges ap- 
pointed by the governor. He died during the last year, highly respected by 
the community in which he lived. 

This comprises all those who officiated on the bench during the existence 
of the old Common Pleas ; not lawyers by profession, as appears from the 
record. There are very few persons now living who remember these men or 
their history. What has here been written of them has been obtained mostly 
from the records, and in part from tradition, which is very unreliable as to 
accuracy. There are, doubtless, those now living in the county, if they could 



68 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



be found, who could furnish a more detailed history of their lives. But the pub- 
lisher cannot afford the time or expense of searching them out. The location 
of each has been given, so that those seeking this information may readily find 
out such history. The names of the attorneys who sat upon the bench will 
be found in the list of lawyers. 

To give the history and character of the members of this bar, which is re. 
puted to have, during the whole period, ranked second, if not first, in the 
state, may seem an easy task. But much time has been spent in searching 
records, and inquiring of persons in different localities, without ascertaining 
any thing very definite. Those living during the time, and who personally 
knew the facts, have passed away. What information has been gained is 
from the records, newspapers, and scrap books, and much from the very able 
address of John Clarke, in 1862, delivered at the dedication of the court- 
house. Much has been taken verbatim from these sources, indicated only by 
quotation marks. In confirmation of the difiiculties here stated, and that the 
meagreness of the history is no disparagement of the great ability of the mem- 
bers of this bar, the following, from an eminent jurist, is here copied: — 

" Of lawyers whose Hves are devoted exclusively to their profession but 
little is necessarily known. His life is usually devoted to attaining results 
that cease to be of interest when the end is accomplished, and it matters not 
how great may be his talents, how extensive his learning, or unwearied his 
industry. Unless he has had leisure to compose judicial works he can leave 
little behind him that will interest posterity, or which will serve to show of 
what he was able. A forensic argument or the occasional report of a trial 
may survive; but such fragmentary memorials are not of themselves sufficient 
to prove that a man had attained to commanding eminence in a profession 
where general excellence depends upon the possession and thorough cultiva- 
tion of so many qualities. Eminent professional merit, the fruit of strong nat- 
ural ability, coupled with great industry and experiences, has, during the life- 
time of its possessor, but a few select admirers ; and when he has passed 
away from the stage of Hfe there is nothing but their recollections to float 
him down the stream of time, until he is lost in the mist that finally enshrouds- 
all that is traditional." 

Benjamin Skinner was the first surrogate of the county, and held the office 
until February 12, 181 1. He was then appointed county clerk, and held this 
office till February, 1813. He was succeeded by Richard M. Esselstyn, who 
held the office till February 16, 18 15, when Skinner v/as again appointed 
such clerk, and held the office until June 3, 1820, when he finally retired from 
office. He had some considerable practice as an attorney, and was reputed 
an excellent clerk and a substantial man. He must have employed some sub- 
ordinate to keep the records, not very proficient in the business, as they were 
not very well kept, either in order or penmanship. Mr. Skinner lived the 
remainder of his life and died at the residence of his son-in-law, George 
Webb, between Watertown and Evans Mills. 



BENCH AND BAR. 69 



Moss Kent was a brother of the Chief Justice and Chancellor James Kent, 
and first located in Champion. Soon after he removed to Le Raysville and 
went into the office of Mr. LeRay as land agent, where he remained for 
many years. In 1810 he was appointed first judge of the county, which 
office he held until February 26, 1818. He was also elected to Congress. 
Mr. Clarke's address says of him: " He was a brother of James Kent, with 
very little share of the talent or learning of that great luminary of law and 
equity. In this is exemplified one of the freaks of nature, or else the influ- 
ence of circumstances over the character and fortunes of men. Here the 
one brother, a star of the first magnitude m the constellation of eminent 
jurists ; the other, though educated to the law, a plodding land agent in the 
new county of Jefferson, and judge of its Common Pleas." 

Egbert Ten Eyck " graduated from Williams College in Massachusetts, 
read law in Albany, and moved to Champion soon after 1800. After 
remaining there a few years, and soon after the organization of the county,, 
he removed to Watertown and opened a law office. In 181 2 he was elected 
to the Assembly, and in 1820 was appointed first judge of the county, and 
held the office for nine years. He ran for Congress in 1822, but was defeated 
by Ela Collins, of Lewis County. He ran in 1824 and was elected. He 
was one of the side judges of the Jefferson Common Pleas in 1840. He 
took an active part in the promotion of religious, agricultural, and other inter- 
ests in this county, and for 40 years was a prominent citizen, and was one of 
the most trustworthy and reliable lawyers. He died in Watertown in 1844, 
at the age of 68 years. He was father-in-law of the late Judge Mullin." 
The above Is taken from a scrap book ; the writer is unknown. 

Elisha Camp resided at Sackets Harbor, and the records show that for a 
number of years he did an extensive law business. He was surrogate from 
February 26, 1813, to June 27, 1815. He was a member of the firms of 
Wright & Camp and Ely & Camp. In a few years he went into other busi- 
ness, and gradually abandoned the practice of law. He became one of the 
most prominent men in the county. His history is elsewhere written. 

Thomas Skinner, one of the first attorneys admitted in this county, is said 
to have resided in Adams. He became a partner for a few years with Micah 
Sterling, under the name of Skinner & Sterling ; but soon his name disap- 
pears from the record, and but little of his character or history is known. 

Isaac W. Bostwick resided at Lowville, Lewis County. The record shows 
that he did a large business in this county, in almost every term of the court, 
for a number of years in his own name, and as Bostwick & Allen and Bost- 
wick & Collins. He was land agent for the original proprietors of a large 
tract of land, and finally gradually left the law, and lived the rest of his Hfe 
in the enjoyment of a large estate, and died full of honors. 

John Kirkland, of whom nothing is positively known, appears upon the 

5 * 



^O JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



record but a very few years, but has been supposed to have gone to Oneida 

County. 

Samuel Whittlesey resided in Watertown ; was the first district attorney 
appointed for the county, which office he held from 1808 until 1813; and 
was one of the judges in 1815. He was an able lawyer with an extensive 
practice, and highly respected until the event elsewhere recorded, when he 
sank into obscurity and disgrace. 

Thomas Y. Howe resided in Brownville. He was educated for and 
officiated as an Episcopal minister. He was a man of great learning, 
of commanding presence, and an eloquent speaker. For some cause he 
left that profession and entered upon that of law; but he lacked that 
practical talent so requisite for success in that profession. He was in 
every way qualified to adorn the office of bishop in his church, for 
which office, it is said, he was a candidate before his fall. It has been said 
that the charges agamst him were false, and the moral and religious life led 
by him ever afterwards tends strongly to confirm that opinion. 

Amos Benedict resided at Watertown. " He graduated at Yale College 
in 1800; studied law with Tapan Reeve, of Connecticut, (the noted lawyer, 
and author of Reeve's Domestic Relations,) and settled in Watertown in 
1807. He was among the very first attorneys who located in Watertown, 
and was appointed district attorney in 18 10. He died in 18 14, and before 
the full development of talents and abilities as a lawyer. Yet from a small 
business at court he had before his death as much as any of the other mem- 
bers. He was profound and briUiant ; and although his career was brief, yet 
he left a record behind him which still remains. He resided in a house which 
stood where the mansion of the late Oscar Paddock now stands, and out of 
which it was constructed. His family occupied that house as late as 1840. 
He was the owner of considerable real estate in rear of it, through which 
Benedict street runs, and after whom the street was named. 

Henry R. Storrs first located in Champion, and was one of the original pro- 
prietors of that township. How long he remained there is not ascertained ; 
but he at some early day removed to Whitesborough, Oneida County. But 
he attended almost every court here till after 1823. Mr. Clarke in his address 
says, that at the first Circuit Court held in the new stone court-house, in 1822, 
he first heard the ponderous eloquence of Henry R. Storrs. He subsequently 
removed to Connecticut, and was for many years the chief judge of the 
Supreme Court of that state, and so continued until his death. 

Lyman Munson resided at Adams, and, judging from the record, was an 
attorney of good standing and had a good practice. He was surrogate from 
April 2, 1816, to November 26, 1820. His name is not in the list of attor- 
neys in the state in 182 1. 

Ela Collins resided in Watertown for some time, and removed to Lowville ; 
was a partner of Isaac W. Bostwick ; was elected to Congress ; was a very 



BENCH AND BAR. 



71 



able lawyer. He left an impression upon the community in which he lived, 
which is felt to this day. 

Artemus Stoel. — After much inquiry nothing of him is known. He had 
some business as attorney and some as a party litigant for three or four years, 
and then his name disappears from the record. 

Micah Sterling was born in Lyme, Conn., November 5, 1784 ; entered Yale 
College in 1800, and graduated in 1804. He was a classmate and a great per- 
sonal friend of John C. Calhoun during his life, and corresponded with him 
during the whole period, except during the nullification times. He at- 
tended a course of law lectures in Litchfield, Conn., and afterwards studied 
law with Judge Williams, at Utica. He located in Adams about 1 8og j and it is 
here that he formed a partnership with Thomas Skinner, under the firm name 
of Skinner & Sterling. He was admitted to the Common Pleas in 1811, and 
soon thereafter removed to Watertown. He built the stone hotel called the 
Mansion House, located about where the Iron block now stands, kept by 
Luther Gilson. On this lot was his first oftice. He bought a tract of land 
and built thereon the stone mansion, where his son. Rev. John C. SterHng, 
now resides, and surrounded it with a beautiful park, long known as Sterling's 
Park. He was elected to Congress in 1821, and in 1836 to the state Senate. 
Soon after the admisson of Isaac H. Bronson as an attorney, in 1823, he 
formed a copartnership with him under the name of Sterling & Bronson, and 
so continued till 1840. Mr. Sterling from the beginning of his practice took 
one of the most prominent positions at the bar. He was tall, strongly built, 
and dignified in his deportment. He was a fluent speaker and cogent rea- 
soner ; and during the term of their copartnership the firm of Sterhng & 
Bronson was at the head of the profession in this county. He died April 1 1, 
1844, the same day of Judge Ten Eyck's decease. 

Alfred Lathrop resided in Champion village for many years. He was the 
agent of Champion & Storrs, the original proprietors of that township, until the 
lands were all sold. He removed sometime prior to 1840 to West Carthage, 
and engaged in farming, manufacturing linseed oil, etc., and lived to an old 
age, highly respected and esteemed by the community. He left a large fam- 
ily who left in early life for different parts of the county, one. Dr. Lathrop, 
going to the Sandwich Islands. There is not a representative of the family 
now living in this county. 

Of Popham and Radcliff nothing can be learned. The name of William 
S. Radclifif appears in the list of attorneys for the state of New York in 1821, 
as located in the city of New York, and is supposed to be the same person. 

David W. Bucklin was admitted in 18 ii. He soon attained the first rank 
in the profession. He was district attorney for many years. The description 
of Mr. Bucklin is best given in Mr. Clarke's address before referred to, and is 
here quoted. He says, after speaking of Micah Sterling; "The equally tall 
and more robust form of David W. Bucklin, with his powerful enunciation, 
sometimes withering rebuke and sarcasm, bearing down his adversary by the 



72 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



very force of his presence, and frightening the witness out of his falsehood 
or integrity, no matter which, by, so to speak, the momentum of his appear- 
ance. This gentleman became afterwards involved in politics, went to the leg- 
islature, removed to New York, and died ; and his mantle descended upon 
George C. Sherman, Esq., his partner. The last time I heard him speak 
was in the Court of Sessions in defending a prisoner on a charge of theft ; and 
the question of intent was strictly involved ; in the language of the books the 
animus fur andi, literally translated, 'intent to steal.' In suming up to the 
jury Mr. Bucklin, in his impassioned manner, urged this principle, and, if I 
recollect right, successfully : that the legal term animus furandi signified a 
furious mind, ' a most furious mind, gentlemen of the jury ! ' and that his cli- 
ent's conviction or acquittal depended upon ' whether he, this poor, puny, 
half-starved, misbegotten creature, had a furious mind when he took the prop- 
erty. I tell you, gentlemen, the thing is impossible.' " " I could not deter- 
mine," says Mr. Clarke, " at that time, though Mr. Bucklin had himself been 
district attorney, but was not burdened with classical learning, whether he 
was in earnest or jest in his argument ; but from his manner every one 
would be led to believe that he was in dead earnest." 

John M. Canfield was born in Sharon, Conn., December 22, 1775 ; studied 
law in the office of Judge Ambrose Spencer, at Albany, and completed his 
studies, and was admitted as an attorney in 1796. He then went to Catskill, 
and practiced there till 1810, when he came to this county and located in 
Brownville. He soon formed a copartnership with William Brown, under the 
firm name of Canfield & Brown. In 18 13 he was appointed collector of 
direct taxes by James Madison, then President of the United States, and 
about this time he removed to Watertown ; and from the record it would ap- 
pear that the firm for a short time practiced in Watertown. In 1819 he was 
appointed collector of the port of Sackets Harbor by President James Mon- 
roe, and removed to that place. He continued as such collector till 1828, 
during which time he did very little practice as an attorney, and afterwards 
did very little business of any kind. He died July 9, 1849. He married 
Fanny Harvey, of Stamford, Conn., by whom he had 11 children, of whom 
Theodore Canfield, of Sackets Harbor, is the only survivor. 

Harlow Emerson came originally from Norwich, Conn. He studied law in 
the office of Micah Sterling, and was admitted in 1815. Of him the follow- 
ing from Mr. Clarke's address is quoted: " Mr. Emerson, now deceased, was 
one of the old members of the bar of this county, and somewhat distinguished 
as a special pleader. He was arguing a demurrer to a complaint upon a 
promissory note; a complaint, plain, simple, without fault or blemish. I 
believe the demurrer took umbrage at some ancient formality, as charging 
that the defendant fraudulently intending to injure and had not paid, etc. 
The demurrerjwas obviously interposed for delay, and perhaps for fun, as at 
that period it sometimes occurred. Mr. Emerson, quite unnecessarily, but 
casually, stated to the court the office of a demurrer, and the derivation of the 



BENCH AND BAR. 73 



term, which is from the Latin demorare, or old French demorieji, to wait, 
stay, delay, etc. The presiding judge (McKnight), after the statement of the 
case, and without hearing the other side, after a few moments' consultation 
with his associates, said, ' we think the demurrer well taken.' Mr. Emerson, 
in utter amazement at the absurdity of the thing, and under the impulse 
of the moment, and the influence of a habit contracted in early life when a 
sailor, thrown off after the gown was assumed, but coming strong upon him 
at the time, replied : * The hell you do!' The judge, without taking the least 
umbrage at this very emphatic interjection, set about to vindicate the decision 
upon the very principle and definition stated by the counsel, which the court 
entirely appreciated : that the demurrer being for delay had performed its 
office agreeable to the defendant, and so why not well taken, in the name of 
common sense. This discussion and decision produced such an irresistible 
impulse of laughter that the whole bar was convulsed, and Mr. Bucklin, in 
the utter exhuberance of mirth, arose, clapped his hands, and hurrahed in 
open court. This was said to have been one of the scenes in the old Court 
of Common Pleas in its early history, when the wild woods were bowing 
beneath the sturdy stroke of the stalwart men of the new settlement, and 
ceremonials yielded to the sterner exigency of life." 

Mr. Emerson was a great student of the sciences and general literature ; a 
thorough scholar. His mind was particularly adapted to the science of the 
law, and he was notorious in the special pleadings of the old practice, which 
was the perfection of logic. He was the father of Fred Emerson, now a 
prominent and influential citizen of the city of Watertosvn. Mr. Emerson 
died June 24, 1846. 

H. W. Channing, of whom but little is known, studied law with Judge 
Ten Eyck ; was admitted to practice in July, 1812, and was for several years 
a partner of Ten Eyck under the name of Ten Eyck & Channing; and in 
1 82 1 his name appears among the list of attorneys in the city of New York. 

Samuel A. Talcott was admitted in 18 13, and is said then to have resided 
in Watertown, but soon removed to Lowville. He was the father of the late 
Judge Talcott, of Buffalo. Samuel A. Talcott became attorney-general of 
the state, and was reputed the greatest forensic orator in the state. He died 
at the early age of 36 years, leaving a reputation belonging to the state at 
large rather than to any particular locality. 

Barnabas Yale resided in Martinsburg in 1814, when he was admitted to 
practice, and resided there in 1821. He had but little practice in this 
county. His descendants, it is said, reside there now, and his history belongs 
more properly to Lewis County. Martinsburg was then the county seat of 
that county. 

Thomas C. Chittenden lived at Adams ; was admitted to the bar in 18 13, 
where he did an extensive law business till 1840, He had a fine dignified 
presence, was a good speaker, and always came into court thoroughly pre- 
pared. He was one of the ablest lawyers at the bar. He was elected to 



74 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Congress in 1838 and again in 1840 ; was in that year appointed first judge 
of the county, and removed to Watertown, and lived there the remainder of 
his life. He died full of years and honors. He was a perfect verification of 
the old adage, that lawyers work hard, live well, and die poor. 

John Cook. — Of his history or residence nothing has been ascertained. 

H. Leavenworth. — The same is said of him. 

Cornelius Low resided in Lowville. He was the proprietor of a large tract 
of land in Lewis and Jefferson counties, of whom Isaac W. Bostwick was 
agent. His object in being admitted to this court is not so obvious. His 
name as an attorney appears upon the record a very few times, if any. There 
is no record of his attaining any reputation in this state anywhere as a 
lawyer. 

Samuel Beardsley was admitted to practice in 181 5. He then resided at 
Watertown, but remained here only a short time, when he went to Whites- 
borough, Oneida County, and thence to Utica, where he became one of the 
leading lawyers of the state. He was appointed one of the justices of the 
Supreme Court, and was chief justice when the constitution of 1846 went 
into effect. His history is a part of the judicial history of the state. 

J. Rossiter studied law in the office of Daniel Wardwell at Mannsville ; 
was admitted in 18 15, and was a partner of Daniel Wardwell under the firm 
name of Wardwell & Rossiter for several years, when his name disappears 
from the record. His subsequent history is unknown. 

George Smith, who was admitted in 18 15, resided in Watertown, and was 
a resident there in 1821. From the record it appears he did considerable 
business. Beyond this, strange as it may appear, nothing has been learned 
of the man or his history. 

Baron S. Doty, admitted in 181 7, resided in Martinsburg. What is said 
of Barnabas Yale and of his history is all that can be said of him. His his- 
tory belongs to Lewis County. It would seem that some in the adjoining 
counties, and who never resided in this, were admitted to enable them to 
practice in this court. Others after being admitted, or after practicing here 
for a short time, left to make and leave a reputation and history in some 
other locality, 

Enoch Ely was admitted in 1813; was a partner of Elisha Camp, under 
the firm name of Ely & Camp. Nothing definite as to his character or his- 
tory has been ascertained. It cannot be learned that he was in any way 
related to the other Elys residing in Watertown and Brownville. The record 
shows that he resided in Sackets Harbor and was a partner of Elisha Camp 
in the law practice for a short time, and that is all. 

Amos Holton was admitted in 1815 ; resided in Sackets Harbor, and for 
a number of years did quite a large law business, as we learn from the record. 
Quite an extensive inquiry has been made in that village and elsewhere in 
the county to ascertain more of the history and character of this man, but 
without success. 



BENCH AND BAR. 



75 



Charles Dayan resided in the county of Lewis, and like many other attor- 
neys of that county was admitted to practice as an attorney in the Jefferson 
Common Pleas. He was an able lawyer, and a good and fluent speaker. 
For many years he was known as a member of the firm of Dayan & Parish. 
He for a long time did considerable business in the courts of this county. An 
anecdote is related of him which, as illustrating the character of the man and 
court during those days, is here given: — 

" He was trying a cause in that court, when he anticipated the same degree 
of deference as he was accustomed to from judges of his own county. 
During the progress of the trial he raised some objections to the evidence or 
other questions, which the court seemed inclined to hold against him, despite 
a most earnest argument to the contrary, and at length, as if he thought to 
explode a petard upon them, said : ' May it please your Honors, if it is possi- 
ble, that your Honors shall hold this point against me, I have to say to your 
Honors, with great regret and entire deference to the court, but with a full 
sense of ray own rights and my imperative duty, however disagreeable it may 
be to your Honors, I shall certainly be under the painful necessity of taking 
an exception to your Honors' ruling.' " 

Mr. Dayan was a sociable and very agreeable man, and highly respected by 
all. He died many years since. 

John McCarty resided in Hounsfield ; was admitted in 1820. Thorough 
inquiry in that town has failed to discover anything of his history. The 
records do not show that he did much business in this county. He probably 
soon removed to, and made a history in, some other location. 

Horatio Shumway was admitted in 1820; in February of that year 
was appointed district attorney, and was succeeded by David W. Bucklin in 
February, 1821. Soon thereafter he removed to Buffalo, where he resided 
the remainder of his life. 

George P. Bond was admitted in 1822; is supposed to have resided in 
Adams. Nothing further has been learned of his history. 

Dyer Tillinghast, admitted in 1822, resided at Sackets Harbor. He also 
removed to Buffalo very soon thereafter. 

Benajah B. Phelps, admitted the same year, is also reported to have lived 
in Sackets Harbor. No reliable facts regarding his history have come to 
hand. (In the History of Jeffersoti County, published in 1877, he is recorded 
as living in Rodman.) 

John Adams was admitted in 1823 ; resided in Watertown, and for a time 
was a partner of Harlow Emerson. He then removed to Monroe, Michigan, 
where he died many years since. 

Perley G. Keyes, admitted in 1824, was the only son of Judge Perley 
Keyes, and always resided in Watertown. He was possessed of considerable 
wealth, practiced law but little, was a prominent Abolitionist, and very active 
in that line. He died of apoplexy many years since, leaving Rev. Richard 
G. Keyes, his only heir, surviving him. 



76 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Edward Fowler, admitted in 1825, resided at Ox Bow, in this county, and 
resided there in 1836. He had a limited practice, but is reputed to have 
been a highly respectable citizen and good counselor. 

Alexander W. Stowe, admitted in 1826, came from Lowville, and located 
for a time in Sackets Harbor. He is reputed as having great brilliancy and 
ability as a lawyer, though somewhat eccentric in his character. He remained 
there only a short time, when he left and located in one of the Western states, 
where he became a judge of one of the highest courts, and attained a repu- 
tation as an able jurist. 

Orson Parker was admitted the same year, and of him nothing can be 
learned : whence he came, where he resided, or whither he went. 

Of Marenus W. Matthews, admitfed in 1828, the same must be said. 

Of Stockwell Osgood, admitted in 1829, the same must be said. It is 
quite probable that soon after their admission they left to practice their 
profession, or at least to engage in some business, in some other locality. 
Hough's History gives the name as one of the trustees of Union Library, 
formed August 14, 1824, in Cape Vincent ; and Everts & Go's History the 
name of S. Osgood as attorney in Adams in 1821. 

Edmund M. Eldridge, admitted in 1829, resided in Belleville ; and resided 
there in 1836, and many years later. He had considerable reputation in his 
immediate vicinity, but less reputation as a lawyer in the county at large. He 
finally removed to La Fargeville, and represented the town of Orleans as super- 
visor in the county board of 1843. 

Edwin Dodge studied law in the office of Sterling & Bronson, and was ad- 
mitted in 1829. Sometime prior to 1836 he located in Gouverneur, St. Law- 
rence Gounty. He became one of the most wealthy and influential men of 
that county; was elected to and held the office of county judge for many 
years. His history belongs rather to the bar of that county than to this. 

William A. Green was admitted in 1830; studied law in the office of Jus- 
tin Butterfield, to whom he was in some way related by marriage, and whose 
office was in Sackets Harbor. After Mr. Butterfield moved to Watertown he 
went to Sackets Harbor and took Mr. Butterfield's business, and after about 
two years he went to New York, and resided in Brooklyn until a few years 
since, when physical inability compelled him to abandon the practice of law, 
when he came to and located in Watertown. He was a clear headed, able, 
and learned lawyer, and very successful, both in getting business and in doing 
it. He now boards with Rev. Richard G. Keyes, is a very sociable and 
agreeable gentleman, and is very interesting in his reminiscences of the bar 
of this county and of the character of its members. 

John W. Tamblin was admitted in 183 i. He resided at Evans Mills, and 
married the daughter of Judge John Macumber. He early engaged in poli- 
tics, and never had a very extensive law business. He had great influence 
and strength in the political party to which he belonged. He was elected 
assemblyman several times, and served one term of four years as senator. 



BENCH AND BAR. 77 



Sometime after 1840 he removed to Watertown, and for several years was 
editor of a weekly paper. Mr. Tamblin was a great reader ; but his reading 
was mostly of that kind which stored the mind with scientific facts and theo- 
ries, but added little to his practical knowledge. He died leaving behind him 
no appreciation of his actual knowledge or learning, for the very reason that 
he left no evidence of any application of it of any value or interest what- 
ever. 

Of Alfred D. Rathbun, admitted at the same time, nothing has been 
learned. 

Edward B. Hawes, admitted the same year, resided at Belleville. He was 
for many years engaged almost daily in trying suits in justice's court, at which 
he was an expert. He had good legal ability, but was eccentric in his char- 
acter. No man in the southern portion of the county was better known 
than he. He was generous to a fault. He was alternately very pious and 
very profane ; yet no one had more charity extended to him for his faults 
than he. After a long life of excitement he died, avowedly looking upon the 
grave as a place of rest. 

William Ruger, admitted in 1831, was noted as a great teacher of mathe- 
matics, teaching what was called select schools in various parts of the county, 
and was the author of Ruger s Arithtnetic. About 1836 he formed a copart- 
nership with Charles Mason, who came from Madison County, and who about 
1840 returned there to practice. Ruger then formed a copartnership with 
Joshua Moore, then living in Brownville, under the firm name of Ruger & 
Moore. He was elected state senator about 1838, dying in 1842. He was 
reputed a sound lawyer, but a poor speaker. He was an uncle of the present 
chief justice of the Court of Appeals. 

Andrew Z. McCarty resided in this county when he was admitted in 1831, 
but very soon thereafter moved to Pulaski, where he resided, practicing his 
profession till his death a few years since. His history belongs to Oswego 
County. 

William H. Shumway, admitted this year, was a peculiar character. No 
man was better known throughout the county. He never married, and was 
at times very intemperate, losing all his business, and suddenly reforming 
would regain the confidence of the community and his business. The muta- 
tions often occurred. He finally left Watertown and went to Oswego, into the 
insurance business, where his alternating habits followed him. Thence he 
went to Syracuse, and finally got into the state law library there as assist- 
ant. He died in that capacity. It was said he got nothing for his services, 
except what lawyers paid him for lookmg up books and authorities for them, 
at which, it was universally conceded, he was an expert. 

Of Henderson Spencer, admitted the same year, nothing is known. 

Jason Marsh, admitted this year, lived and practiced the law for several 
years in Adams, where he resided. Nothing has been learned of him except 
what appears upon the record. It appears that for some time he did consid- 



78 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



erable business, and was there in 1836. Probably a more extensive inquiry 
in Adams might discover some one who could give more particulars of his 
life, but they have not been found from the inquires made. 

Of Albert Richmond, admitted in 1832, and of Peter Yates, admitted in 
1833, and Ahera G. Eastman, admitted in 1835, nothing is known. 

Samuel G. Watson studied law in the office of C. E. & J. Clark; was ad- 
mitted in 1832, and located at Sackets Harbor; was there in 1836. He sub- 
sequently located in Pulaski. He was a man of fair ability and industry; 
respected by the community. He was postmaster at Pulaski for a number 
of years. 

Augustus Ford, admitted in 1833, was a son of William D, Ford, and re- 
sided in Sackets Harbor. He was respected for his legal abihty and great 
social qualities. While at Sackets Harbor he was an intimate associate of 
the officers at the garrison there, amone whom was General Grant. For a 
long time many soldiers and officers were stationed at Sackets Harbor, until 
at length nearly all were ordered away; and when this was done the town 
became dull, and the lawyers from time to time left. Mr. Ford went first to 
Buffalo, and, after staying there a short time, he went to New York ; located 
in Brooklyn, where he now resides. 

Nathan Rathbun, admitted in 1833, lived in Brownville ; had a good rep- 
utation and business in his profession. How it happens that he was one of 
the counsel who defended Evans for murder in the Oyer and Terminer, in 
1828, when he was not admitted to the Common Pleas till 1833, five years 
after, can be accounted for only upon the supposition that in 1828 he 
had been admitted to the Supreme Court, and not to the Common Pleas 
till 1833. There is none of his family now remaining in Brownville or in the 
county so far as can be ascertained. 

John S. Bagg resided in Watertown ; was a brother of an eminent physi- 
cian who resided here; and soon after his admission, in 1834, removed to 
Detroit, Michigan. He formed and left behind him no reputation as a 
lawyer. 

Anthony Ten Eyck, admitted this year (1834), was a son of Judge Egbert 
Ten Eyck. He also soon after his admission removed to Detroit, where he 
gained considerable reputation as a lawyer, and died several years ago. 

George A. Benedict, admitted at the same time, was a son of Amos Ben- 
edict, and soon after his admission he removed to Cleveland, Ohio, where 
he?'practiced law for awhile, and at length was part proprietor of a daily^ 
paper in that city, until his death several years since. 

Charles Mason came to this county from Madison County in 1835, and 
was admitted to the Common Pleas. He soon thereafter formed a partner- 
ship with William Ruger, which continued till 1839, when it was dissolved, 
and he returned to Madison County, where he practiced law till he was 
elected judge of the 6th district under the constitution of 1846. He filled 
this office two terms, when he was appointed clerk of the Circuit Court 



BENCH AND BAR. 79 



located at Utica, which office he filled till his death. His reputation belongs 
to the state rather than to this county or this district. 

Charles Hayden, admitted in 1819, lived in Richland, Oswego County. 
His history belongs to that county. 

David Brooks, Jr., was admitted in 1819, and all that is known of him is 
that for awhile he was a partner of Justin Butterfield, under the name of But- 
terfield & Brooks, and resided in Sackets Harbor. 

Of Abel P. Vosburgh nothing can be learned. Whence he came, where he 
resided, and whence he went is unknown. 

Nothing of David Perry has been ascertained. Admitted in 181 1, he did 
considerable business, but his name is not found on the list of attorneys of 
1821. 

Daniel Wardwell, admitted in 1814, then resided in Mannsville. J. Ros- 
siter, probably a student in his office, admitted the year after, became his 
partner. The firm of Wardwell & Rossiter appears upon the record for sev- 
eral years. Mr. Wardwell removed to and practiced in Adams. He was 
appointed judge, and first sat on the bench at the December Term, 1824, 
the last time in December, 1826. He was elected congressman three suc- 
cessive terms, representing Jefferson County six years. He is reputed as a 
man of abiUty and integrity, and has left surviving a highly respectable family. 
One of his sons is now living in Adams, and another in Rome. 

William D. Ford, admitted in 181 7, is recorded as living in Sackets Har- 
bor. There is some evidence that at one time he had an office and practiced 
law in the then village of Watertown. For many years he was a prominent 
member of the bar. He was the father of Augustus Ford hereinbefore men- 
tioned. 

Justin Butterfield was admitted to the bar of Jefferson County Common 
Pleas in 181 3, and had an extensive law business until he went to Chicago 
in 1840. There is evidence that he was located in Watertown most of the 
time, and a part of the time in Sackets Harbor. During the time he had 
severel partners, among whom was David Brooks, Jr. In the opinion of 
many of his cotemporaries he was the ablest lawyer in the county. He left 
behind him a brilliant reputation, which still lingers in the memory of the 
older inhabitants, and has been transmitted to and believed by those who 
never saw or heard him. There are many incidents of his professional life, 
of his genius, tact, and mental acuteness, worth recording, which would be 
appropriate in an extended history of his life, but which the limits of this 
article will not permit. He acquired a good reputation in Chicago. He 
defended the prophet Joseph Smith before Judge Pope, and there were sev- 
eral jurymen by the name of Angel. His opening address to the jury on 
this occasion was, " May it please the court, I arise before the Pope in the 
presence of angels to defend the prophet of the Lord." There are many 
versions of this address, but the above is given as the substance of what he 
actually said. 



8o JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Gouverneur M. Bucklin, admitted in 1836, was a son of David W. Bucklin. 
He inherited from his father his physical development, voice, and " volubility 
of tongue," but not his industry or ambition. He lived in Watertown till 
about 1840. He had no business for the reason he would not do it. He 
married a very estimable lady about this time, a Miss Abbey, and removed to 
Carthage, where he remained several years and did very well. He then 
removed to New York and had an appointment in the custom-house, which 
he held through all administrations until his death. He had most extraor- 
dinary conversational powers, commanding attention in whatever social posi- 
tion, high or low, he was placed. With brilliant talents nothing prevented 
his success but want of application. He died several years since at his resi- 
dence in Jersey City. 

Alonzo M. Watson, admitted in 1837, was a resident of Watertown. In 
1840 he formed a copartnership with John F. Hutchinson in the law busi- 
ness. Though he had ability and integrity he was not successful. He or- 
ganized a Fourier association here, located on Cold Creek some two miles 
east of the village, of which he was president, upon several hundred acres of 
land, and carried on the business until not only the association, but about 
€very one of its members, became insolvent. He left the law practice, and 
finally removed to Rochester, and died there soon after, leaving a widow with a 
large family of enterprising boys. They came back to this county after the 
father's decease, and settled in Redwood, and one of the boys, Don M., became 
for a long time a most efficient commissioner of common schools in the third 
commissioner district of the county. 

Westel W. Wager resided in Brownville, flourished as a lawyer, but mostly 
in the lower courts, for a number of years. He died of consumption many 
years since, leaving a son who is a successful practitioner in the city of New 
York. 

Frederick W. Hubbard, admitted in 1838, was a son of Judge Noadiah 
Hubbard, of Champion, and married a daughter of Peleg Burchard. He 
studied law in the office of Lansing & Sherman, his brothers-in-law, and was 
a man of strict integrity and high moral character. He formed a copartner- 
ship with J. H. Dutton, his cousin, under the name of Hubbard & Dutton, 
for several years, and then with his nephew, Stephen J. Hubbard. He was 
elected a justice of the Supreme Court, and took his seat upon the bench Jan- 
uary I, 1852, for eight years. During these eight years the politics of the 
county changed, and he was succeeded by Hon. Joseph Mullin. He then 
resumed the practice of law, doing an extensive business till his death. Some 
year or two before he died he removed his office to the city of New York. 

Hiram Steele was practicing law and resided in Sackets Harbor prior to 
1819. He was one of the judges of the Court of Common Pleas in this 
■county during the years 1821 and 1822. 

E. Smith Lee was admitted in 18 19, resided in Sackets Harbor, and formed 
a copartnership with Hiram Steele, under the name of Lee & Steele. An amus- 



BENCH AND BAR. 8 1 



ing anecdote is related of this firm, as occurring at one of the circuit courts 
held in this county. At that time a written calendar of cases to be tried was 
made up for the use of the court, on which was one, at least, wherein Lee & 
Steele were the attorneys ; and the clerk, in writing the name of Lee, had neg- 
lected to loop the e in the name of Lee, and some wag, or mischievous mem- 
ber of the bar, found an opportunity to dot the first e and put a loop to the 
second, so as to make the whole list of their causes read " Lie and Steele, attor- 
neys for the," etc. This was not discovered till the judge was calling the calen- 
dar and came upon the names, and, in his embarrassment, the judge, looking 
through the list, called the attention of the clerk to it. This very soon 
caused a breeze of mirth through the bar, and an expression of wrath from 
the attorneys thus libelled, and a continual running fire of interjectional in- 
vective during the term. This firm, however, for a number of years did a 
large business, as appears from the record. Their subsequent history or 
whereabouts is unknown. 

Jeduthan Steele resided in Sackets Harbor. He was admitted in 1824, 
and was a prominent man there as well as in the county. He died in 1838. 
Nothing further of his history could be learned, as none of his relatives are 
now living in the county so far as can be ascertained. 

Horace How came from Vermont to Sackets Harbor about 1830, and was 
admitted that year. He married one of the daughters of John M. Canfield. 
He had good ability, but did not engage extensively in the practice of the law. 
He left there in 1848, and went to Chicago, where he died. 

Lysander H. Brown. — The life, character, and eminent ability of Lysander 
H. Brown, a member of the Jefferson County bar, deserve more than a com- 
monplace tribute. The germ of eloquence seems to have been born in him. 
It is not the eloquence that entertains without instructing, that is lost and 
forgotten as soon as it is uttered ; but the eloquence of manner, thought, and 
diction that leaves a lasting and enobhng impression upon the mind. He is 
the only representative of the bar of this county so largely endowed by nat- 
ure with this great gift, and he has never failed to use it at the call of the 
profession. In \.\\t History of Jefferson County^ published in 1878, by L. H. 
Everts & Co., is a sketch of the principal events of his life; but from that 
sketch but little of the characteristic oratorical ability of Mr. Brown can be 
learned. It will be the effort here to recall the early events of his life, which 
tended to develop his peculiar talent, and the gro^vth and maturity of that 
talent during a long life of exemplary usefulness. He was born in Brown- 
ville, December 20, 1808. The early part of his life was spent upon a farm, 
attending, during the winter, the district school. By this occupation he ob- 
tained vigor of mind and body. In 1828 or 1829 he entered Union Academy 
at Belleville, where he remained two years. It was here that he had the 
opportunity of cultivating his special gift. The late Judge Mullin and 
George F. Comstock, of Syracuse, were students there during the time. The 
Rev. Jedediah Burchard, the eloquent evangelist, was an officiating clergy- 



82 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



man at that place, and taught a class in elocution, of which class Mr. Brown 
was a most attentive and tractable member. Under the most excellent and 
masterly tuition of this celebrated clergyman he laid the foundation of that 
winning and lively oratory for which he was afterwards so distinguished. 
In 1 83 1 he entered Union College, graduating in July, 1834. During this 
time the Rev. Dr. Nott, in the full vigor of his life, was the president, 
and Dr. Alonzo Potter, afterwards bishop of the diocese of Pennsylvania, 
was the vice-president of that institution, with a large faculty possessing as 
high a character, and occupying as high a position in public estimation, as 
any institution of learning in the country. 

The very atmosphere he breathed was full of literature, classical and scien- 
tific; and he was permitted almost daily to listen to the private and public 
talk of two of the highest specimens of oratorical genius. Graduating with 
the highest honors of the college, and with a mind disciplined and exalted 
under these influences, Mr. Brown, in October, 1834, became the principal 
of the Champion Academy. Under his direction that academy at once took 
high standing among the educational institutions of the country. He 
remained in charge of the academy until March, 1838, and during the time 
many of his students received that education and mental discipline which 
afterwards gave them high positions in the business and professional world. 
It was during this period that the public first became acquainted with 
his ability as a captivating public speaker. His able and eloquent addresses 
during this period raised him very high in the estimation of the public. In 
March, 1838, he left the academy and came to Watertown to complete the 
study of the profession, with a reputation unsurpassed by any one in the county. 
It was during this summer that he commenced his political life by public 
speeches in favor of the election of Isaac H. Bronson for Congress. In 
October, 1839, he was admitted to practice in the Supreme Court. In 1840 
he was in the political field in support of Martin Van Buren, but his elo- 
quence made little impression against the senseless excitement of that log- 
cabin campaign. His mind was not adapted and could not bend to the 
details and technicalities of the legal profession ; and yet he has been engaged 
in the courts, and in business connected with the courts, during large portions 
of his time. His familiarity with law and lawyers and judges has been exten- 
sive ifor 50 years ; not only the professional courtesies but the social ameni- 
ties have been cordial between them. In 1842 he was appointed to and 
accepted the office of superintendent of common schools of Jefferson County. 
This employment was more congenial with his tastes. In this avocation he 
excelled. During this time he made to Hon. Samuel Young, state super- 
intendent, the most able report received by him from any of the counties in 
the state. He held this ofiice three years. 

In 1844 occurred the presidential campaign between James K. Polk, the 
Democractic nominee, and Henry Clay, the Whig candidate. During this 
campaign Mr. Brown was nominated for the Assembly. The ablest political 



BENCH AND BAR. 83 



■speeches Mr. Brown ever made were during this campaign for the election 
of the Democratic candidate for President. He was thoroughly posted on 
every issue involved in the canvass, and he handled them with great elo- 
quence and power. During this canvass, in the old Agricultural hall, in the 
rear of the county jail, the Hon. John A. Dix and Mr. Brown, on the same 
occasion, addressed a crowded house. Both seemed to do their utmost. It 
was the universal opinion that Mr. Brown, in the clearness of his statements, 
the logic of his reasoning, and purity of diction, far exceeded that of Mr. Dix. 
In after years Mr. Brown was often called to speak in company with such men as 
John Van Buren, Horatio Seymour, Daniel S. Dickinson, and others of equal 
celebrity, invariably acquitting himself with conspicuous credit. Even as 
late as the Cleveland and Blaine campaign he spoke with Lieut. -Gov. 
Dorsheimer to an audience of over 3,000 at the armory in the city of Water- 
town ; and his speech was considered on all hands the feature of the occa- 
sion. Mr. Brown was elected to the Assembly, and took his seat January 
I, 1845. His acts there are a matter of public record. It was universally 
conceded that he was the best speaker in tbe House. In 1846 he was a can- 
didate for the nomination for Congress, and a majority of the delegates to 
the nominating convention were elected pledged for him. But that majority 
was changed by his opponents nominating one of his supporters for sheriff. 
The result was the defeat of the nominee at the election. All the efforts of 
Mr. Brown to the contrary could not prevent it. In 1847 he was elected 
surrogate, the first under the constitution of 1846, and held the office from 
July I, 1847, to January i, 1852. His prominence as a speaker, and his 
activity in the political field, continued down to 1884. 

During the civil war he was frequently called to the forum for the Union 
-cause. At a celebration of the fall of Atlanta, in the city of Watertown, he 
was the principal speaker. His patriotic sentiments were uttered with that 
fervid eloquence of imagery and diction that a certain Hstener, an able critic, 
remarked that the speech would have been a credit to any of the first ora- 
tors of the country. His ability in this direction was not confined to politi- 
cal subjects. It shone forth equally on every subject, and upon every 
occasion when he was called upon to speak. The farewell address to his 
students and the patrons of the Champion Academy, at the close of his 
labors there, will long be remembered by those who heard him. More than 
50 years have passed since that address was deUvered ; and perhaps a large 
majority of his hearers have passed away; yet it is often referred to by those 
who survive. This is characteristic of his public efforts; they are remem- 
bered. His various addresses before educational institutions are universally 
■commended for their ability and their eloquence, both in matter and diction. 

For nearly half a century he has been an active member of the Masonic 
fraternity, and for a number of years was master of the lodge. In this ca- 
pacity he has officiated at scores of Masonic burials. The reading of the 
service of the grave, a service deeply pathetic in itself, was made doubly so 



84 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



by the manner, the emphasis, and depth of feeling with which he deHvered it. 
It was his custom, at the end of the formal ritual, to address his Masonic 
brethren, and the mourning friends and relatives of the deceased, with senti- 
ments appropriate to the occasion. These sentiments, so sympathetic in 
their nature, clothed in chaste and eloquent language, and delivered as 
though coming from the very depths of his heart, left upon his hearers a pro- 
found and lasting impression. These efforts have seldom been surpassed. 
Among the burial services so conducted by him were those of Noadiah Hub- 
bard, an aged and venerable member of the fraternity, at his grave in Cham- 
pion ; of Joseph Curtis Pattridge, a personal friend ; and of Frank Nimmocks, 
of high standing, not only in the lodge, but in the community at large. 

Mr. Brown for many years, and upon almost all occasions, attended the 
meetings of the Jefferson County bar, and especially those called to pay 
tribute to the memory of its deceased members. These occasions have been 
many during the past 25 years. Among the occasions especially to be noted 
are those of the late Judge Lansing and Judge Mullin. The address on the 
occasion of the death of Judge Lansing was delivered without notes, and it 
is unfortunate that no record of it now remains. That upon the death of 
Justice Mullin, his classmate at the academy and roommate in college, 
and a life-long friend and associate, is yet preserved. The writer sincerely 
and heartily hopes that when his time shall come there may be some one to 
pay an equally just tribute to his merits and memory. The limits of this 
article do not permit a record of his family and social connections, or of his 
editorial life. He has written a great deal. It has been valuable and enter- 
taining^ and much of it profound and bright in thought and classical in 
language. But of this it is not intended to speak in this notice. They may 
be found elsewhere. The effort here has been to write of that great and rare 
gift of oratory for which he is so justly celebrated. The engraving accom- 
panying this sketch was made from a photograph taken after he was 80 years 
of age. His most estimable wife died in 1875. He has three married 
daughters living, whose solicitude for his comfort, and veneration for his pa- 
rental affection, are praiseworthy. He is now Hving with one of them, Mrs. 
George Hall, at Ogdensburg, where he says, in a letter to the writer, " I am 
treated like a Prince here." That is as it should be. The veteran orator, 
writer, and scholar deserves to be treated like a prince during what remains 
of a long life, valuable in worth and achievement to his friends and the com- 
munity. 

Cyrus H. Stone came from Ellisburgh to Sackets Harbor in 1835; was ad- 
mitted in 1836. He married a daughter of John M. Canfield, in March, 
1838, and died in October, 1838. He had fine ability, but poor health. A 
few months before his death he left the law and went into mercantile busi- 
ness. 

Jasper W. Gilbert was a son of Marenus W. Gilbert, who for years was one 
of the most prominent and influential men in the county. After his admis- 



^ 



% 



'Sr'^ 





-2c/ 



BENCH AND BAR. 85 



sion he removed to Rochester, and practiced law there for a number of years. 
Then he removed to Brooklyn, where, after a few years, he was elected a 
judge of the Supreme Court, and was continued in that office until disqual- 
ified by the constitution. 

Joshua Moore came from Plattsburgh, or in that vicinity, and after his ad- 
mission located in Brownville. He took Judge Mason's place as partner of 
Ruger, and for sometime kept his office in Brownville and Ruger's in Water- 
town, and alternated between them. Upon the death of Ruger he removed 
to Watertown, into Ruger's office. For several years he was comparatively un- 
known, and had little business ; and when his ability became known, through 
his management of an important litigation, of which he had charge, his 
business and his reputation suddenly and rapidly increased. He was the first 
district attorney elected under the constitution of 1846. He had previously, 
and in February, 1846, been appointed district attorney. He was succeeded 
by James F. Starbuck, January i, 1851. In 1852 he formed a copartner- 
ship with Levi H. Brown, under the name of Moore & Brown. He died in 
1854. It is doubtful whether a more able young lawyei, one of more influ- 
ence, or who commanded more respect for his legal and social qualities, was 
ever located in Jefferson County. The writer was a coiemporary of his, well 
and intimately acquainted with him, and speaks from personal observation. 

Randolph Barnes was born and studied law in Lewis County. He came 
to Watertown and was admitted in 1839. For a time he was a popular and 
successful lawyer, but he was so constituted that he could not do office work. 
He was at home only in the excitement of a trial. After a few years he 
located some where in the West, in farming and cattle business. Failing in 
this he returned to Watertown for awhile, and then went to New York and 
commenced the practice of law under the most favorable circumstances. 
But it was not many years before, his habits being such, that he lost his 
business, and in abject poverty returned to Watertown, where he soon died. 

John Henry Button was a son of Rev. Nathaniel Dutton, of Champion. 
He studied law in the office of Lansing & Sherman, and remained there after 
his admission until he formed a copartnership with F. W. Hubbard. He 
was elected justice of the peace, and held the office for a number of years, 
which, in connection with the insurance business, gave him a competence. 
He never married. He died finally of consumption, with which he suffered 
for a long time. 

Charles D. Wright was a step-son of Bernard Bagley, and immediately 
after his admission they went into partnership, and so continued till Wright 
was elected judge in November, 1859. The business was all done in the 
name of Charles D. Wright, as attorney. They did a very extensive busi- 
ness, having often a majority of the causes on the calendar. Mr. Bagley 
was the trial lawyer, and Wright took charge of the practice. He was prob- 
ably the best office lawyer and practitioner ever in the county. His industry 
and long experience, and mental adaptation to that branch of business, gave 

6* 



86 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



him that reputation at the bar. He held the office of county judge two 
terms. Since that he has Hved in comparative retirement, and is now hving 
in good health and holding a high position in society, and has the respect 
of the whole community. 

George W. Butterfield, admitted the same year, was born in Rodman, 
studied law in Watertown, and practiced here a short time, and then removed 
to St. Louis, Mo., subsequently locating in New York, where he died. 

Wooster Sherman resided in Watertown, and for years was a successful, 
banker. He studied law and got admitted, it is said for the sole purpose 
of suing his own notes. He never practiced any otherwise. He is now liv- 
ing in Syracuse. 

William C. Thompson was in Judge Chittenden's office at Adams, in 1840. 
He removed to 'Watertown, and did a fair business ; was elected county judge 
in the fall of 1851, and held the office four years from January i, 1852, and 
was reelected for another term of four years. He became interested in a 
purchase of a tract of land in North Watertown, to be laid out for city lots, 
and was principally engaged in that business during the rest of his life. 

George Camp, admitted in 1839, was a son of Elisha Camp, of Sackets 
Harbor. He practiced the profession very little ; was principally engaged in 
the vast business of his father. He married a daughter of the late Wilham 
Smith, of this village, and died, leaving his widow and an interesting family 
surviving him. 

Stephen G. Dodge was a brother of the late Judge Edwin Dodge, of Gouv- 
erneur. He practiced very Uttle in this county. It is said he now resides 
in Utica. 

Allen Nims was a graduate of Union College; was a great student, of ex- 
tensive reading, but had not the practicable knowledge or tact to succeed in 
the legal profession. 

Of Joseph Brackett, admitted in 1842, nothing is known. 

George R. Fairbanks, admitted in 1843, was a son of Jason Fairbanks, of 
Watertown. He graduated at Union College in 1839; studied in the office 
of Joseph MuUin. Soon after he was admitted. He left this county and 
took up his residence in Florida, where he has resided ever since. 

David J. Wager was admitted the same year ; was a son of Joseph Wager, 
brother of W. W. Wager, of Brownville, and Daniel Wager, of Rome. He 
resided and practiced law in the village of Philadelphia, where he died, leav- 
ing a son to take his place in the profession, who is said to be an intelligent 
and promising young man. 

Of Gould T. Curtis, admitted in 1843, nothing has been learned. 

Eugene C. Leis studied in the office of Bagley & Wright. He was a 
Frenchman, and half brother of Edward Leis, who was employed in Le Ray's 
office. He was a bright, intelligent young man. Soon after his admission 
he left the country, and it was said that he went to some of the Southern 



BENCH AND BAR. 87 



States. He remained in this county till after 1845, but did nothing at the 
practice of the law. 

Wellington W. Butterfield was a native of Watertown ; studied law with 
Lansing & Sherman, and after his admission went to Niagara County, where 
he resided the last heard from him. He was accurate and methodical in 
business. George C. Sherman selected him from among his students to take 
charge of his private books and accounts in an office kept separate from his 
law office. 

Tohn F. Hutchinson had, for several years before his admission, taught 
a private school in Watertown. He was a very popular and efficient teacher. 
He was appointed postmaster in 1840, and after the death of Harrison he 
followed the fortunes of John Tyler. He, in fact, was the " John Tyler " of 
this section of country. During the time he formed a copartnership with 
Alonzo M. Watson, which continued three or four years, and until Watson 
became president of a Fourier association, and Hutchinson's term of office ex- 
pired. He was a large, tall, and powerful man physically, and of considera- 
ble ability. But under a terrible domestic calamity he lost his nerve, pined 
away, and died of grief. It is difficult to describe the character of this man. 
He was a great and somewhat boisterous egotist, always talking of himself; 
yet of a kind heart, and charity for all. He will ever be remembered by 
those who knew him. 

Marcus Bickford, admitted in 1840, resided at Carthage. He became a 
partner of Judge Hiram Carpenter, and was an able and successful practi- 
tioner. He continued the practice there until the gold excitement in Cali- 
fornia broke out, when he left, and spent sometime in the gold mines. He 
returned with a full purse, married, and settled down again to the practice. 
He was taken with inflammatory rheumatism, which lasted him through life, 
and interfered with his professional duties. He was justice of the peace for 
many years, and edited a paper for some time. His constitution finally 
yielded to his disease, and after much suffering he died. 

William A. Forward studied in Lansing & Sherman's office, was admitted 
in 1840, and went with Isaac H. Bronson as clerk of his court to Florida, 
and permanently resided there. 

Eleazer W. Lewis studied in the office of F. W. Hubbard, and remained 
there after his admission. He then went to Depauville, or La Fargeville, 
where he had been a merchant, thence to and resided in Sackets Harbor for 
some time, and finally removed to some of the Western states. 

Lawrence J. Goodale, a resident of Watertown, was admitted in 1840. 
In 1847 he became a partner of Hon. Joseph MuUin, under the firm name 
of MuUin & Goodale, and continued five years. On September 20, 1864, he 
became the land agent of Le Ray and removed to Carthage, where he now 
resides. See his history in that of the town of Wilna. 

Lotus Ingalls studied law in the office of Lansing & Sherman, was admit- 
ted in 1846, and practiced law in Watertown until 1850, when he left the 



88 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



profession and went into the newspaper publishing business, which he has 
followed ever since. His history belongs to that of the press. 

Edwin Clark was a nephew of C. E. & John Clarke, and was born in Say- 
brook, Conn. When about seven years of age he came to Watertown, lived 
with his uncle John, and studied in his office. He also attended the law 
school at Albany, and was admitted in 1844. Sometime afterwards he 
removed to Ogdensburg, and opened a law office there. He was bright and 
intelligent, with every prospect of becoming a successful lawyer, but he died 
before arriving at maturity. 

Richard S. Hunt was a native of Watertown, and a printer and editor by 
trade, until rather late in life. He finally studied law in the office of Ran- 
dolph Barnes, and was admitted in 1844. He soon thereafter married and 
removed to Gouverneur, and opened an office there. Not being very success- 
ful he removed to Texas, where he formerly lived. He w::s reported to have 
died many years ago. 

John P. Brown was a native of Brownville, and a cousin of Lysander H. 
Brown, under whom he prepared for college. He graduated at Union Col- 
lege in 1842, studied law in Judge MuUin's office, and after his admission 
became a partner, and remained so till his death. He died of congestive 
fever in February, 1847. He was a young man of more than ordinary ability, 
and possessed those traits to an eminent degree requisite for a successful 
lawyer. 

James R. A. Perkins was a son of Charles Perkins, the well known and 
popular proprietor of Perkins Hotel in Watertown. He was admitted in 
1844, and opened an office at Three Mile Bay, where he practiced law until 
1852. He was elected to the office of surrogate, and removed to Watertown 
and entered upon the duties of that office January i, 1852. He was rte!ected 
in November, 1855, and held the office until January 1, i8f>o. His health 
was poor, and he died of consumption in the summer of 1861. 

Joseph Curtis Pattridge, a resident of Watertown, graduated at Union Col- 
lege, studied law in the office of Sterling & Bronson, was admitted in 1839, 
and practiced law until 1848. He was for several years master in chancery. 
In 1848 he was appointed paymaster in the army that went to Mexico, with 
the rank of major. At tiie close of the war he returned and went into the 
milling business for a few years, during which time he purchased a large tract 
of land in Minnesota, and was about leaving to reside there when he died of 
a fever supposed to have been contracted in Mexico. He was noted for his 
literary attainments and great social qualities. 

Isaac Van Vleek, * admitted in 1845, resided at Sackets Harbor, where, for 
a number of years, he practiced law, and was known throughout the county 
as a prominent Democratic politician, and frequently represented his party 
as a delegate to county conventions. He subsequently left the county, and 
his residence since has not been ascertained. 



* Van Vleek or Van V leek (?). 



BENCH AND BAR. 



Luther J. Dorwin * has been a member of the Jefferson County bar longer 
than any man living except Judge Wright. He has been in constant active 
practice 46 years; and it is no reflection upon the very able men of that bar, 
to say that he has stood in the front rank of the profession among them. 
He is an industrious student, as well as an alert and successful practitioner. 
He loves the law. His trained brain delights to pry into its depths, to cull 
its golden treasures, and unravel its intricacies. If a question of law pre- 
sents itself he applies it to foundation principles for solution. Nothing is 
sound with him till he finds the base on which it rests. 

Mr. Dorwin has a birth-right residence in this county. In mind and body 
he is a sturdy product of the Champion hills, having been born in that town 
May 13, 1S20. Coming through a line of robust, energetic New England ances- 
try he inherits the powerful physical and intellectual qualities of his progenitors. 
His father, Hubby Dorwin, was a native of Vermont, and his mother, whose 
maiden name was Elizabeth Jones, was born in Champion, her parents hav- 
ing removed to that town not long previously from New Hampshire. Dor- 
win has been a prevalent name in Vermont since the early history of the 
state. Two brothers of that name came from England to the Green Mount- 
ain region away back in colonial times. One settled there, and hence the 
name and the race in this country. The other wandered elsewhere, and, it is 
said, never was heard of afterwards. 

Luther J. Dorwin commenced acquiring the rudiments of education while 
very young at the district school in Champion. In the course of a few 
years he attended a select school in Denmark, and also one in his native 
town, until October, 1834, when he entered the Champion Academy, then 
under charge of Lysander H. Brown as principal. Here his studies were 
principally the languages and mathematics. He pursued them with remark- 
able persistence and earnestness, and mastered them thoroughly. When Mr. 
Brown left the academy, in April, 1838, young Dorwin went to Union Col- 
lege, entering that grand old seat of learning the same month. Here he 
maintamed the highest grade of scholarship throughout. He graduated in 
July, 1840, and immediately entered the law office of Lansing & Sherman, 
in preparation for the practice of the law. In October, however, at the earn- 
est solicitation of the trustees, he became principal of the academy in 
which he prepared for college. He was a comparative youth, and the task 
appeared a severe one; but with that spirit of fearlessness which an un- 
swerving determination to succeed always begets, he took hold of the work, 
and made it an encouraging success — profitable to himself and his patrons. 

In 1842 he returned to his law studies ; and in January, 1844, he was ad- 
mitted to the practice of his profession. He was then ready for his life work; 
and he was not only well read in the law, but he was a most thorough and 

* This sketch of Mr. Dorwin was written by Lysander H. Brown, at the request of 
the publisher. 



go JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



finished scholar in the classical and scientific branches taught in the schools. 
His mental discipUne had been unusually severe ; and mental discipline is 
what makes strong lawyers. In a comparatively short time after his admis- 
sion he was largely occupied in conducting important and complicated 
equity cases. He has also been extensively and successfully engaged 
through all his practice in real estate -contests, being a first-class real estate 
lawyer, a proficient in the settlement of estates, and an expert and skilled 
accountant. For a series of years his principal and most formidable oppo- 
nent in sharp, severe legal contests was the veteran and learned lawyer, John 
Clarke, in his life time. 

Mr. Dorwin's opinions, whether in law or otherwise, are formed after thor- 
ough investigation ; and when formed they are stoutly and courageously 
maintained, apparently without the least regard to popular approval. But 
this notice would not be at all complete without a reference to his peculiar 
forte in preparing causes for argument, and in the argument. His briefs are 
profound expositions of the laws applicable to the cases in hand ; and his 
opponents in the argument are left with no standing in court, unless their po- 
sitions are impregnable to attack. He has had an extensive practice in this 
line in the courts of the state, and he has won many notable and decisive 
triumphs. And in all his work he is a man of dispatch. If he undertakes a 
task it is not allowed to linger after it should be performed. 

Mr. Dorwin is yet industriously engaged in the business of his profession. 
He is in general good health, and in the full vigor of his intellectual faculties. 
Profound learning and ample experience render his legal opinions sound and 
reUable. They are especially so estimated among his professional associates. 

Augustus D. B. Goodale was a native of Watertown, son of Joseph Good- 
ale, a leading druggist of that village, and a brother of Lawrence J. Goodale. 
He was well educated, and was admitted to the Common Pleas in 1845. 
After his admission he left this county, and resided for a number of years in 
some of the Southern states. He finally returned to Watertown, where, with 
the exception of the '' D. B.," he now resides, engaged in his profession, 
advertising as a conveyancer and loaner of money. 

William A. Gilbert resided in Adams; was admitted in 1846. He was 
elected to Congress from Jefferson County in 1854-55, afterwards became a 
banker in the village of Adams, and died some years after. He never prac- 
ticed law to any extent. 

Merritt Andrus studied law in the office of Judge Mullin; was admitted in 
1846, but never opened an office as an attorney. He went into business 
with Walter N. Woodruff, and finally alone, and so continues to this day. 
He is one of the leading merchants and business men of the city of Water- 
town. 

Stephen J. Hubbard, son of Hiram Hubbard, of Champion, studied law 
in the office of Hubbard & Button, and afterwards became a partner of Hon. 
F. W. Hubbard, his uncle, under the firm name of F. W. & S. J. Hubbard. 



BENCH AND BAR. 91 



In a few years thereafter he retired from the practice, and has ever since and 
now resides in Champion. 

Richard Ely was admitted during the same year, but of him nothing has been 
ascertained. 

Silas A. Webb is a native of this county, was admitted in 1846. He 
soon after located in Three Mile Bay, practiced there for several years, 
and became well known as a marine lawyer. He knew every part of a ves- 
sel, and was engaged in the trial of many suits relating to vessels on account 
of his ability to examine witnesses on such trials. He removed to Oswego, 
where he now resides. 

William A. Ely was a son of William Ely, a merchant, of Brownville. He 
was well educated, taught private school in Watertown, was admitted in 1846, 
but never practiced law to much extent. He was afterwards ordained as an 
Episcopal clergyman. His health was poor, and he finally died of consump- 
tion. 

Samuel B. Starr was a native of Jefferson County, studied law in the office 
of John Clark, and upon the death of Harlow Emerson was clerk in the 
office of Nathaniel P. Wardwell, as surrogate ; and after his death was clerk 
for Calvin Skinner, county judge, acting as surrogate until the election of 
Lysander H. Brown to that office, with whom he remained about two years, 
after which he left and resided in some of the Western states. His practice 
of the law in this county was very limited. 

Samuel Wardwell was a son of Daniel Wardwell and resided in Adams. 
He was admitted in 1847, but never practiced law to any amount. He went 
to, and now resides in, Rome, Oneida County, and is a banker. 

Alexander Wilson was for a time a merchant here, as a partner of Roderick 
Chittenden, in the boot and shoe business. He studied law with Linsing & 
Sherman, was admitted in 1847, and for several years remained in their office 
in charge of their business. He left and went into the lumber business in 
Canada, where he still resides so far as known. 

Albert B. Gilbert resided in Watertown for several years ; was admitted in 
1847, but never practiced. He went to Rome and engaged in the ready- 
made clothing business, and has never since resided in Jefferson County. 

Laban H. Ainsworth resided in Cape Vincent. After his admission he 
practiced law there for many year^. He finally removed to Watertown, was 
active in getting up the city charter, and was the first recorder of the city, 
and was reelected several times. After he left that office he was elected a 
justice of the peace, which office he held for several years. During the past 
year he has removed to and now resides in the city of Rochester. 

Charles W. Rogers resided at Adams at the time of his admission to the 
bar. He studied law in Utica, in the office of James Watson Williams, reg- 
ister in chancery. He came thence to Adams, and was admitted in 1848. 
He remained in Adams some eight or nine years, then removed to Cape 
Vincent, in the employ of the Rome «& Watertown Railroad ; thence to 



^2 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Toronto, in the same business, and then removed to and now lives in Con- 
necticut. 

William L. Sherman was distantly related to George C. and Wooster Sher- 
man, and a nephew of John A. Sherman. He had some practice, but was 
unpopular with the profession, and an attempt was made to debar him, as 
appears from the record. He finally disappeared from the records of the 
court. 

Albert B. Hawes resided at Belleville. He was a brother of Edward B. 
Hawes, and was an associate justice of the Sessions, but it is not known of 
his practicing law to any extent. He died several years since. 

Lyman E. Boomer was a graduate of Union College, and a resident and 
native of Ellisburgh. He studied law in Judge Mullin's office. He was a 
man of wealth, and it is not now known of his practicing law to any extent 
in this county. He also died several years since. 

George A. Gates was born in Rodman, graduated at Union College in 
1840, studied law in John Cla!ke's office, and was admitted in 1843. Soon 
after he was admitted he was afflicted with a peculiar disease, and he visited 
many eminent physicians for a remedy, but found none. He quietly settled 
down under his paternal roof, and remained there till he died. 

Charles E. Clarke was a native of Saybrook, Conn., was a graduate of Yale 
College, studied law in Greene County, came to Jefferson County, and was ad- 
mitted as an attorney in 1815, and resided in Watertown. He at once took 
a prominent position at the bar. In 1825 his brother, John Clarke, having 
studied in his office, was admitted, and soon thereafter the two brothers 
formed a copartnership under the name of C. E. & J. Clarke, and continued 
until about the year 1848. About 1830, or a little later, he purchased a 
grist-mill, saw-mill, and distillery at the Great Bend, most, if not all, of which 
was formerly owned by Angel Potter. His time thereafter was mostly spent 
there, except during the terms of the courts, when he came to and assisted 
his brother in the preparation and trial of causes. He took the leading part 
until after 1840, and in important cases till 1848. He was elected to the 
Assembly in 1839 and 1840, and in 1848 was elected to Congress. The 
various attainments of Mr. Clarke, his wit, humor, and eloquence, have left 
an impression upon the judicial history of this county which will long remain- 
He was a genius, and taking him all in all he never had his equal in this 
county, if he had in the state. He died in 1863, at the age of 74 years. His 
humor was probably inherited, for, it is said, that he and his brother John 
visited their aged father in Connecticut. The father was then over 80 
years of age. As they were about leaving Charles E., in a very pathetic 
tone, said to his father that they were all growing old, that he and John lived 
a great way off, and that it was probable they should never meet again. The 
father replied that he had read a good many papers and accounts of deaths — 
that he very seldom saw an account of the death of a man of his age. 



BENCH AND BAR. 93 



Robert Lansing was a son of Sanders and Catharine Lansing, and was 
born at Albany, February 2, 1799. He was a member of Union College, 
but for some reason did not remain there and graduate. In 18 17 he came 
to Watertown and entered the law office of Egbert Ten Eyck, and was ad- 
mitted in 1820. In June, 1826, he was appointed district attorney for the 
county of Jefferson, which office he held until February, 1833, when he was 
succeeded by George C. Sherman. He was elected to the state Senate in 
November, 1831, and held that office four years from January i, 1832. He 
was then succeeded by Micah Sterling. Mr. Lansing was again elected to the 
state Senate. I don't know the precise year, but he was the immediate 
successor of Ashley Davenport. He said he was nominated by the 
Democratic Union. On December 22, 183 1, he married Maria Hub- 
bard, the eldest daughter of Noadiah Hubbard, of Champion. She died 
in the year 1839, leaving one child surviving, now so well and favor- 
ably known in the profession as John Lansing. On February 2, 1841, he 
married Cornelia Hubbard, the second daughter of Noadiah Hubbard. Soon 
after the expiration of his senatorial term he formed a copartnership with 
George C. Sherman, under the name of Lansing & Sherman. In February, 
1845, he was again appointed district attorney, and held the office for one 
year, when he resigned. In June, 1847, he was elected county judge under 
the constitution of 1846, which office he held until January i, 1852. At the 
expiration of this office he practically retired from the profession, except to 
act as referee, which for many years he was afterwards called upon to do. 
He died October 3, 1878, aged nearly 80 years. He was thoroughly imbued 
with the principles of the law, unostentatious of his great legal learning, and 
of scrupulous integrity. He was a fluent speaker, and logical and clear in his 
arguments. After his partnership with Mr. Sherman he seldom took the 
lead in the trial or argument of causes ; but the writer has heard him on sev- 
eral occasions in important cases, and can confirm the traditional reputation 
of his earlier years. 

George C. Sherman was born in Providence, R. I., December 14, 1799, 
and came to this county at an early day. He worked when a boy for David 
W. Bucklin, and developing at an early age uncommon ability, Mr. Bucklin 
took him into his office as a law student. He was admitteil to practice in 
1823, and formed soon thereafter a partnership with Mr. Bucklin, which con- 
tinued until the latter left for New York. On January 3, 1828, he married 
Mary Ann Hubbard, the third daughter of Noadiah Hubbard, of Champion, 
who now survives him. In 1833 he was appointed district attorney, which 
office he held till February, 1840. In 1843 he was appointed one of the 
judges of the Common Pleas, which office he held until July, 1847, when the 
constitution of 1846 went into effect. He was elected to the state Senate in 
the fall of 1843, and held the office for two years from the first day of Jan- 
uary then next. He early speculated in land, buying a large tract at from 
two to three dollars per acre, and commenced selling immediately at $8. 



96 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



of Thomas C. Chittenden, and was admitted in 1826. He was master in 
chancery, and held divers other small offices. In April, 1845, he was 
appointed first judge of the Common Pleas of this county, and held the office 
till July I, 1847. He continued the practice there until he died several years 
since. Mr. Skinner was a sound and learned lawyer. He was not a promi- 
nent jury advocate. His practice, and where he excelled, was in chancery; 
and was somewhat noted for the ingenuity of his questions before an exam- 
iner, all of which were required to be written. It is not known that he left 
any descendants or relatives now residing in this county. 

Joseph Mulhn was born in Ireland in September, 181 1, and came to this 
country with his parents when very young, and resided in Brownville, where 
he attended the common school for awhile. He worked in a printing office 
a short time, setting type, with the view of becoming a printer; but the desire 
for a higher education prevailed. With the assistance of friends he went to 
the Union Academy at Belleville, where he prepared for college. He entered 
the junior class in 183 1, and graduated in 1833. He then taught the 
academy in Belleville and afterwards in Watertown a few years, and studied 
law in the office of SterUng & Bronson, and was admitted in 1837. At this 
time Sterling was in the state Senate, and Bronson in Congress. The whole 
business of the office fell to the charge of Mr. Mullin, the duties of which he 
discharged with ability. He at once took a prominent position at the bar, 
the peer of the older members. N. P. Wardwell having married the daughter 
of Mr. Sterling, the latter took him into partnership and Mr. Mullin opened 
an office by himself. In 1845 he entered into a partnership with John P. 
Brown, who had been a student in his office, and so continued until the 
death of Brown in 1847. In the fall of 1847 he formed a copartnership with 
Lawrence J. Goodale, which continued five years. After that he entered 
into partnership with the present Justice Merwin, and so continued until he 
was elected a justice of the Supreme Court in the fall of 1859. He was 
reelected in the fall of 1867, and again in the fall of 1875. Having arrived 
at the age of 70 years, his office, by the constitutional limitation, expired 
December 31, 1881. He was district attorney for the county from February, 
1843, to February, 1845. He was elected to the Thirtieth Congress in 
1847 and served to 1849, and held several municipal offices during the time 
he was at the bar. He died in June, 1882, while temporarily at Saratoga, 
and his remains were brought to Watertown and interred in Brookside Cem- 
etery. At a meeting of the bar of Jefferson County, held June 14, 1882, 
resolutions were introduced by Lysander H. Brown, his school-mate at the 
district school, his roommate at the academy and in college, accompanied 
with an address, paying a just and eloquent tribute to his memory. The 
resolutions and the address were published in the Watertoum Times of June 
15th, and were ordered to be entered, and are now on record, in the proceed- 
ings of the court which was then in session. The history of Justice 
MuUin is a matter of record. The eminent position he attained in the 




/'' ' ^^^V^Z-^T-^r/ V^y 



BENCH AND BAR. 97 



judiciary sufficiently appears in the state reports, where it will remain for 
generations to come, a fitting monument to his learning and ability. 

James F. Starbuck was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., September 5, 1815, 
and at an early day removed with his parents to Niagara County. In the 
sprmg of 1839 he came to Watertown and entered the law office of Lansing 
& Sherman, where he remained until he was admitted to the Common Pleas 
in 1843, and to the Supreme Court in 1844. In 1845 he opened an office by 
himself in Watertown. In 1846 he was elected a secretary of the convention 
that formed the constitution of that year, and in November, 1850, was elected 
district attorney, and held the office three years from January i, 185 i. He 
married Sarah Burchard, a daughter of Peleg Burchard, in May, 1855, who 
died in 1857, leaving a daughter surviving her — now the wife of E. S. Goodale, 
a merchant in Watertown. In 1861 he married Mrs. B3yer, the widow of 
Judge Joseph Boyer, who now survives. In i860 he was a candidate for 
Congress, but was defeated. In 1876 he was elected to the state Senate, 
from the district comprising Jefferson and Lewis counties. He died Decem- 
ber 20, tS8o. The political history cf Mr. Starbuck may be found in a his- 
tory of New York with an encyclopedia of biography of prominent men in 
the state, published by W. J. Comley, in 1877, which also contains his litho- 
graph. We are here concerned with his professional histoiy, character, and 
standing only. His election to the office of district attorney enabled him to 
develop his great ability in the trial of causes, especially before juries, and he 
at once took a leading position in jury cases in the countv, his main com- 
petitors being John Clarke during his life, and Levi H. Brown thereafter. 
He was from an early day laborious in his profession. In special cases he 
was probably one of if not the most powerful advocates before a jury ever 
in the county. His eff^orts were not uniform. Only in those special cases 
adapted to his temperament and his methods of thought did he excel his 
cotemporaries. His long habit of, and thorough preparation and study in, 
preparing to argue facts before a jury somewhat disqualified him from excell- 
ing in the argument of questions of law before the court. But he excelled 
in that which was the great object and ambition of his early life. 

Levi H. Brown was born in the town of Lorraine, March 25, 18 18. His 
father, Aaron Brown, was a wealthy farmer and a prominent citizen of that 
town. When 19 years of age Levi H. commenced to obtain an education, 
and prepared for college at the Belleville Academy. He entered Union Col- 
lege in 1841, and graduated in 1843; studied law in the office of Judge 
Jones in Schenectady, and in the office of Calvin Skinner at Adams, and was 
admitted in 1846. He practiced in Adams until June i, 1852, when he re- 
moved to Watertown and formed a partnership with Joshua Moore under the 
name of Moore & Brown. This firm, under the lead of Mr. Moore, did a 
large business. Mr. Moore died in April, 1854, when Mr. Brown formed a 
partnership with Allen C. Beach, under the name of Brown & Beach. Upon 
the death of Mr. Moore the responsibility of a large and important business 



98 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



devolved upon Mr. Brown, and he in all respects proved equal for the occa- 
sion. This firm did a large and increasing business until 1871, when Mr. 
Beach was elected lieutenant-governor, and the firm dissolved. Mr. Brown 
has since and now practices alone, except for a short time, when he was in 
company with Mr. Gipsonnow in Minnesota, and S. S. Trowbridge. He held 
many local offices — supervisor, mayor, etc. Here we are to record princi- 
pally his professional life as a prominent member of the bar of Jefferson 
County for more than 40 years. Of the vast business he has done, and the 
intense and untiring labor he has performed, much might be written. 

His cases were thoroughly prepared, and his arrangement and presenta- 
tion of the facts and evidence to the jury were unexcelled. He entered upon 
the trial of case after case at the circuit with strength and vigor. His pre- 
sentation of his case to the jury was clear and logical. He has a smooth and 
pleasant voice, and is a fiuent speaker, and exercised a great influence over 
juries. Mr. Brown has been, not only a good jury lawyer, but is equally able 
in the argument of cases on appeal in the higher courts. After John Clarke 
the writer has never met a more formidable adversary in the appellate court. 
Mr. Brown is now at work with apparently all the mental and physical vigor 
and strength he had 30 years ago, having apparently many years of labor and 
usefulness still before him. He does little in law business as attorney, but 
still retains his practice as counselor. His private business occupies nearly 
all his time and attention. 

Edmund B. Wynn's first appearance in Watertown was as a student in the 
office of James F. Starbuck. He was admitted in 1846, and soon thereafter 
opened an ofKice at Three Mile Bay, and practiced there till about 1852, when 
he removed to Watertown, and established an office here, where he has 
practiced ever since. He very soon became an attorney for the Rome & 
Watertown Railroad, and has continued and is now such attorney. He was 
for sometime a partner of Denis O'Brien, now a judge of the Court of Ap- 
peals, and also of Wilber F. Porter, but for several years last past has been 
alone. He was a candidate for the office of justice of the Supreme Court in 
the 5th district a few years since. He is now possessed of a vigorous con- 
stitution and good health, and is eminent as a railroad attorney. 

Denis O'Brien was born in Ogdensburg, March 13, 1837. The events of 
his life have become a subject of public history. Though the positions he 
has held, and now holds, entitle him to a prominent place in the official 
records of the state, yet in the history of his adopted county, where the germ 
of his future success was developed, it is proper that a brief sketch of his life, 
character, and ability should be recorded. He was favored by nature with a 
strong physical constitution and equable temperament, which properly di- 
rected impart great intellectual strength. Thus endowed he early entered upon 
the realities of life with a determination to succeed. He studied law in the 
office of Messrs. Meyers & Magone, of Ogdensburg ; was admitted to the 
bar in May, i86r ; and in November of that year removed to Watertown to 



BENCH AND BAR. 



99 



reside permanently. From that time his business, and reputation in his pro- 
fession, gradually increased. From 1869 he was an alderman in the city for 
some four years, and afterwards was elected mayor. His judicious man- 
agement of these offices won the respect and confidence of the substantial 
portion of the city's population. His success in his profession gave him a 
high local reputation through the county. In 1880 he succeeded the late 
James F. Starbuck as a member of the State Democratic Committee. This 
gave him an opportunity of extending his reputation for ability and fidelity 
beyond the bounds of his county and generally over the state ; and he im- 
proved it. For four years he held this position. In November, 1883, he 
was elected attorney-general and reelected in November, 1885, his term of 
office terminating January i, 1888. His administration as state's attorney 
for this great commonwealth established confidence in his thorough capabil- 
ity and integrity with all parties throughout the state. In 1889 he remained 
at home, during which time it became evident that public opinion was tend- 
ing towards his nomination by the Democratic party for judge of the Court 
of Appeals. This seems to have been conceded on account of his exalted 
though comparatively brief public service. When the state convention met 
he was nominated with remarkable unanimity. The nomination was ratified 
by the people at the election by a large majority; and he has now entered 
upon the discharge of the duties of his dignified and responsible position. 
It is not only heartily desired, but universally believed, that he will discharge 
his high judicial duties with credit to himself and honor to the already 
exalted standing of the Court of Appeals. 

In concluding this sketch of the bench and bar of Jefferson County the 
writer concedes that there may be therein many errors, both of fact and of 
judgment. Bat the facts have been gathered from the best and most reli- 
able sources in his reach. The character of the judges and members of the 
bar, so far as it has been written, has been derived from tradition, and from 
the record, when the individual was not personally known ; and no exemption 
from error is claimed in the delination of character even where personally 
known. 

The sketch properly ends at the adoption of the constitution of 1846. By 
that instrument the whole organization of our judicial system was changed, 
and from that time a new era in the practice and administration of the law 
commenced. Though over 40 years have passed since that time, yet from 
the records now so v/ell kept, and the printed calendars required at every 
term of the Supreme Court, a history of the bench and bar from that time is 
comparatively an easy task. It is a history that should be written and pre- 
served before many more years pass away. 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



THE PRESS OF JEFFERSON COUNTY. 

WATERTOWN. 

The pioneer newspaper in Jefferson County bore the high-soaring name of 
American Eagle. It was estabhshed in Watertown in 1809, by Henry Cof- 
feen. It was printed by Abram Taylor, Jr., and was RepubUcan in politics, 
supporting the administration of President Madison. Judge Coffeen was one 
of the first settlers of Watertown, and possessed large influence. Where the 
materials on which the Eagle was printed were obtained is unknown, but it 
is not unlikely that they were the same employed in the publication of the 
Black River Gazette, established at Martinsburg, Lewis County, in 1807. 
The journal last named was a short-lived venture ; its publisher, James B. 
Robbins, removed to Watertown, and it is probably fair to presume that the 
press found its way here. The Martinsburg paper, it is believed, was the 
first one in Northern New York west of the Adirondacks. Of the Eagle and 
its conductors nothing more is known than has been stated. In January, 
181 2, Jarius Rich, who had read law in Massachusetts and been admitted to 
practice, but whose license had been revoked in consequence of his partici- 
pation in a broil in a justice's court, purchased the establishment from Cof- 
feen, changed the name of the paper to the Afnerican Advocate, and con- 
tinued in it until 18 17. He appears to have been a man who had the cour- 
age of his convictions, who freed his mind when he had anything to offer, and 
who did not shrink from the consequences of his utterances. He was in the 
Advocate in 1813, when Com. Perry won his brilliant victory on Lake Erie, 
and naturally indulged in words of exultation. Referring to Perry's achieve- 
ments he suggested that the " old cock," as he termed Com. Chauncey, then 
in command of the small fleet on Lake Ontario, ought to follow Perr'ys ex- 
ample. This enraged the Commodore, and he came straightway to Water- 
town. Entering the oftice of the Advocate he inquired for the editor. Rich 
told him he was the man. The Commodore then said he had come all the 
way from Backets Harbor to obtain satisfaction, and proposed to cane him. 
Thereupon Rich seized the Commodore and pitched him headlong to the 
foot of the stairs. This ended the affair. In the spring of 1817 Seth A. 
and Dorephus Abbey came to Watertown from Albany, and finding the 
Advocate advertised for sale, by the sheriff, bought it, and, in connection with 
John H. Lord, a journeyman printer, s\.2i.x\.e<^\.\\Q Jefferson and Lewis Gazette, 
This paper was continued till April, 1819, when Dorephus Abbey and Mr. 
Lord went to Oswego, and S. A. Abbey started the Independent Republican, 
continuing it till February, 1825, when the house and office of the publisher 
were destroyed by fire, and the publication of the paper suspended. Pre- 
vious to this date (January 27, 1824), and perhaps because the paper was 
not sufficiently subservient to the Democratic leaders, the Watertown Free- 
man was started by W. Woodward, who was backed by Perley Keyes. This 



NEWSPAPERS. 



paper continued till 1833, when its name was changed to the Democratic 
Sfa/idard,undeT which cognomen it was continued till July 19, 1835, when it was 
united with the Watertoivn Eagle, which last paper was started September 11, 
1832, by J. Calhoun.* The new paper was called the Eagle and Standard. 
It was in the Eagle that Alvin Hunt made his debut as editor. When the 
two papers were consolidated Mr. Hunt took the interest of Mr. Calhoun, 
when it was conducted by that gentleman and A. L. Smith. In October, 
1836, Mr. Smith withdrew from the cora:ern, and in November, 1837, the 
name of the paper was changed to \.\\q /eff'ersonian, and under that appella- 
tion, and the ]Vaterto2vn Jeffersonian, the paper continued till united with 
the Democratic Union. 

T\\Q Jeffersonian, under date of March 2, 1841, contained the following 
account of a "talking machine," then being used in England. It tends to 
the opinion that the telephone was in use long before the present instrument 
was perfected: — 

RAILWAY TALKING MACHINE. 

"A late English journal, in referring to the Loudon and Blackwell Kailroad, mentions a. 
' talking machine,' constructed with galvanic wires, by means of which conversation could be 
carried on between London and Blackwell with the greatest ease and precision. By way of 
illustrating the efficiency of this talking machine Mr. Stephenson said that he went to the 
station in London one day to enquire for one of the assistants. He was not there, but the 
attendant said that he could enquire if he was at the other end; he did so; in a few seconds 
the answer was that he was not there. But about Ave minutes afterwards the talking machine 
informed him in London that his assistant had arrived at the Blackwell terminus; upon which 
he instructed the attendant to say by the same agency, ' Tell him to come here directly.' In 
10 minutes he arrived, the distance being seven miles. If the distance were 100 miles the con- 
versation could be carried on just as readily, for the conversation traveled at the rate of 20 
miles a second." 

December 5, 185 1, J. W. Tamblin became the associate of Mr. Hunt. 
March 15, 1853, J. C. Hatch purchased Mr. Tamblin's interest, but resold 
the same in the following September. A daily paper was issued from the 
Jeffersonian office from May 10, 1851, till November, 1853. 

August 29, 1846, the first number of the Democratic Union was issued: 
Thomas Andrews and James Swindells, publishers; Lysander H. Brown, 
editor. Swindells was m the paper only one week. April 15, 1847, Stephen 
Martin became an associate publisher. September 2 John A. Haddock 
succeeded Martin. In June, 1848, Mr. Brown withdrew from the paper, 
J. C. Hatch taking his place, when the politics of the paper were changed from 
the support of Cass to that of Van Buren for the presidency. It subsequently 
passed into the hands of Charles A. Stevens and John A. Haddock. In the 
great fire of May 14, 1849, the office was destroyed, but in two weeks the 
publication of the paper was resumed. Septernber 12 Haddock became the 
proprietor and publisher, and October 15, 185 i, Lysander H. Brown again 

* Mr. Calhoun subsequently removed from Watertown, and about 1836 started the 
first newspaper in Chicago, called The Detnocrat. 
7* 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



became connected with the paper, and continued with Haddock till Novem- 
ber, when he became sole publisher. January g, 1853, Messrs. L. H. Brown 
and E. R. Pollard became the publishers. Mr. Brown continued in the con- 
cern till 1854, when Haddock again obtained possession and soon after trans- 
ferred it to Elon Comstock, who consolidated it with the Jeffeisonian, styling 
the combined papers the Jefferson Union. In December, 1855, ^^- Com- 
stock sold i\\e Jefferson Union office to J. W. Tamblin, who, in May, 1856, 
sold two-thirds of the concern to J. A. Haddock and Royal Chamberlain, of 
St. Louis. In the fall of 1856 E. J. Clark purchased this establishment, 
and changed the name \.o Jefferson County Union, associating with him Royal 
Chamberlain. Three years subsequently he purchased Chamberlain's interest 
and was sole proprietor until January i, 1865, when he sold the paper to 
R. A. Oakes. Previous to this time J. M. Sigourney, for a year or more, had 
been employed to edit the paper m Mr. Clark's absence. 

January 16, 186 1, Hall & Bragdon started the Watertown Daily News, 
which was merged in the Daily Reformer, January 20, 1862. At this time 
the Weekly Neivs was purchased and edited by J. W. Tamblin. January 
19, 1865, Stephen Canfield purchased the interest of TambUn in the Neivs, 
and the paper was merged in the Jefferson County Union: S. Canfield & 
Company, publishers; R. A. Oakes, editor. July i, 1865, Mr. Canfield 
bought the interest of Mr. Oakes, who gave place to H. H. Young as editor. 
The name of the paper was changed to The Democrat; and in August 
Henry S. Munson bought the interest of Mr. Canfield and a daily was 
started called the Daily Democrat, with Young and Munson, editors. It 
was issued till February, 1866, when it, with the weekly edition, was 
suspended. This left the Democracy without an organ. In May following, 
however, Anson B. Moore purchased the plant, and, with H. H. Young as 
editor, revived the Democrat. In 1868 A. H. Hall purchased the paper and 
changed the name to the Re- Union, and continued the paper till 1870, when 
he sold to George Moss and Walter A. Boon. In 1872 they started the 
Morning Dispatch (daily), and it was continued by them, C. W. Havens, 

C. J. Hynes, and others until May 7, i88r, when the plant was sold to 

D. Kelley and Charles W. Clare, who run the daily one year, when Kelley 
retired and the daily was discontinued. The Re- Union has since that time 
been under the management of Mr. Clare, who has made it an entire success. 

The Democratic press in this county has received its inspiration from 
Jarius Rich, Alvin Hunt, Lysander H. Brown, E. J. Clark. Royal Chamber- 
lain, and R. A. Oakes. The latter gentleman possesses fine literary talents 
and never writes anything that is not written in the best manner. Mr. Cham- 
berlain was a very fair writer; Mr. Clark is both a ready writer and speaker. 
He has never done much out of the line of purely party politics ; but he has 
labored early and late in the service of the Democratic organization, and I 
judge without much profit to himself. Mr. Hunt was decidedly a strong 
writer, and made himself felt for nearly a quarter of a century ; Lysander H. 



NEWSPAPERS. 



103 



Brown, in his prime, was ready with his pen, and made an excellent speech 
without preparation ; while Mr. Rich, we judge, was one of the "rough and 
ready " sort of men. Only one of these men, E. J. Clark, was a practical 
printer, and it is a noteworthy fact that not one of them ever accumulated 
any great amount of money out of the business, which is an evidence either 
of unselfishness or want of financial tact. Mr. Clare is the first and only 
individual connected with the Democratic press of this county who has made 
anything out of his calling. I have given precedence to the Democratic press 
because it is the oldest. The party has never been without an organ, except 
for a brief time noted above. To-day that organ rests on a more secure 
basis than at any previous period. 

The aiiii-Masonic Press. 

When the Abbeys came into possession of the American Advocate there 
was very little party feeling. Mr. Monroe had been chosen president the 
previous year, receiving 230 out of the 231 electoral votes cast. There was 
little opposition to the Democratic, then styled Republican, party. That 
little was chiefly local. It was therefore up-hill work for a purely party paper, 
as were those which had been published in Watertown. So their paper 
stopped at the end of two years. Another, however, was soon after started 
by one of the firm, Seth A. Abbey, which was called the Independent Repub- 
lican., probably because there were men of adverse political views. This 
paper, I judge, was the first one in Watertown which ventured to avow 
sentiments antagonistic to the Republican organization, though there was 
one at Sackets Harbor, established in 18 17, which was undisguised in its 
opposition to so-called Republicanism. 

The Independent Republican was kept running till February, 1825, when 
the office was burned, a period of nearly six years. The next year, October 
19, 1826, Theron Parsons & Co. established Thursday s Post* and con- 
tinued it until January 17, 1828, when H. L. Harvey purchased the estab- 
lishment and changed the name of the paper to the Register. May i, 1830, 
he took Benjamin Cory into partnership with him. Two weeks later the 
name of the paper was changed to the \Vaterto7vn Register and General Ad- 
vertiser. In May, 1831, Mr. Cory became sole proprietor. Up to this date 
the paper had been neutral in politics, but soon after became the organ of 
the party opposed to President Jackson. In the meantime — May, 1828 — 
a paper was started which was called the 

* It was in the office of the Post that the late Judge Mullin worked as an apprentice 
several years, commencing in 1826. In 1S28 Parsons started the Censoi\ at Adams, the 
publication of which was continued si.\ months at that place and then removed to Water- 
town and the anti-Masonic paper in existence there, and published by Parsons or Harvey, 
was discontinued. 



I04 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Independent Republican and Anti- Masonic Recorder, which lasted until the 
Censor was removed to Watertown from Adams, January, 1830, and was 
called the 

Waierfown Censor, and was published by Abner Morton, was anti-Dem- 
ocratic in politics. It was succeeded by the 

Anti-Masonic Stm, which was pubHshed by Enoch Ely Camp. It was soon 
changed and published 39 weeks, commencing December 19, 1830, by Dr. 
R. Goodale, as 

The Constellation. Subsequently it passed into the hands of Mr. Morton, 
who called it the 

Jefferson Reporter, and published it from September ir, 1832, till January 
21, 1834, when he removed to Monroe, Michigan, taking his press with h;m. 

September 19, 183 1, Mr. Cory dropped the words General Advertiser 
from the title of his paper, and it appeared as the Watertoum Register till 
March 25, 1835, when it was changed to the North American, with John 
Haxton, editor. Under this cognomen the paper continued until September, 
1839, when H. S. Noble became the publisher, and restored the name of 
Watertown Register. Noble kept in the Register \.\\\ March 12, 1842, v;hen 
he sold to William Hough. On the 9th of April Hough sold to William 
Welch, who conducted the paper until May 20, 1843, when he discontinued 
it and started the Black River Journal. Subsequently Joel Greene purchased 
a half interest in the concern, and the paper was continued two years (until 
1845), when Welch sold out and went West. 

In the spring of 1846 Greene commenced the publication of the Daily 
Journal, ran it a short time, then changed it to the Watertown Tri- Weekly 
Jour7ial, and as such it was continued till August 26, 1846, when A. W. 
Clark became the purchaser, and established the Northern State Journal. 
Two years later George W. Smith and H. S. Noble became the publishers, 
the firm being styled Smith & Noble. John Fayel subsequently bought 
into the concern, and was joined by A. W. Clark, Smith & Noble retiring. 
In 1856 Clark & Fayel sold the paper to the " American party," but after a. 
few months it came back into their hands. 

Clark & Fayel continued in the paper until July, 1863, when the partnership 
was dissolved. Indeed Mr. Clark paid Httle attention to the paper after tak- 
ing his seat in Congress in i86r.* When Mr. Fayel retired from the paper 
he took an office in the Postoffice Department at Washington, but failing 
health compelled him to relinquish the same, and he died at Saratoga, where 
he had gone m the hope of obtaining relief, July 12, 1864, at the age of 39 
years, and after a service of 12 years as associate editor of ih^ JournaL 
The paper then passed into the hands of J. Budlong and Orson L. Haddock. 
After a few months, however. Haddock sold his interest to Budlong, and Bud- 



* Just when Clark & Fayel left the Journal \ia.s not been ascertained. They were im 
the paper (at least their names were) December 2, 1S62. 



NEWSPAPERS. 105 



long sold the same to H. H. Smith, September 16, 1865, and under their 
management \.\\q Journal was continued most of the time as a semi-weekly 
until April i, 1867, when it was sold to Solon M. Hazen, and continued by 
him until it was finally disposed of to the proprietors of the Reformer, May 
15, 1868, and the paper discontinued. In August 28, 1850, L. Ingalls, A. H. 
Burdick, and L. M. Stowell started the Neiv York Reforfner, independent in 
politics. Mr. Burdick retired from the paper October 16, 185 1, and Mr. 
Stowell left it March 11, 1858. From this date to August 26, 1858, Mr. In- 
galls had no partner. At that time John A. Haddock was taken into the 
concern. March 22, i860, this notice appeared in the Reformer: — 

"Hon. Beman Brockway, late of Oswego County, will hereafter be associated with the un- 
dersigned in the conduct of this paper Ingalls & Haddock." 

September 27, in the same year, Mr. Haddock retired from the paper, and 
Isaac M. Beebee became interested in the same. He remained in the paper 
until October 10, 1861, when he resigned to go to the war, and Ingalls and 
Brockway became the publishers. December 17, 1863, Lafayette J. Bigelow 
became connected with the paper and continued his interest therein until his 
death, which occurred January 13, 1870. On the ist of June following 
Charles R. Skinner came into the establishment as a partner, the firm name 
being Ingalls, Brockway & Skinner. December j 2, 1873, Mr. Brockway pur- 
chased the interest of Mr, Ingalls at public sale, and at private sale the in- 
terest of Mr. Skinner the ist of August, 1874, since which time he has been 
the editor of the paper, and he and his sons, J. W. and H. A. Brockway, 
the proprietors of the establishment. 

It will be seen that the array of names concerned in bringing into exist- 
ence the Republican press in Watertown, and brmging up what is now the 
Daily Times and Weekly Reformer, is large and respectable, to say the 
least. Benjamin Cory was a solid man, both physically and intellectually. 
H. S. Noble did good work. William Welch, who was the founder of the 
old Black River Journal, is a good deal of a man, and had he remained in 
the paper would without doubt have made his mark here as he has else- 
where. A. W, Clark, though never a strong writer, was a good newspaper 
man, possessing a level head and a good heart. George W. Smith, who is 
still living at his home in Herkimer, m his day excelled both as a speaker 
and writer. John Fayel was one of the cleverest writers and best hearted 
men ever connected with the press in this county. Lotus Ingalls's varied 
talents are too well known to require special mention. Mr. Stowell wrote 
pointedly and well. Mr. Haddock wields a ready pen, and, had he stuck to 
journaHsm, could hardly have failed to achieve credit. Lafayette J. Bigelow 
was the readiest speaker Watertown has ever had, and he wrote well. Charles 
R. Skinner is a rapid and excellent writer, and ought to have continued in 
journalism and let offices alone. But he got into politics, somewhat acci- 
dentally, and does not find it an easy thing to get out. The life-work of the 
writer will be left to speak for itself. 



Io6 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Besides the foregoing there have been numerous newspaper ventures in Wa- 
tertown. Among them may be mentioned the Herald of Salvation, aUniver- 
salist semi-monthly magazine, by Rev. Pitt Morse, commenced November 30, 
1822 ; first year printed by S. A. Abbey; second, by W. Woodward. It was 
then united with a magazine in Philadelphia. 

The Genius of P/ii/antk?'opy, temperance, started by H. L. Harvey, who 
bought Thursday s Post, January 17, 1828, and issued a new paper, called 
the IVatertown Register, and united the Genius of Philanthropy with it. 
Just when the last named publication v/as started is not stated. 

The Monitor, quarterly, started January i, 1830, and designed as a record 

of the benevolent societies of the Presbyterian and Congregational churches. 

The Student, by the students of the Black River Institute, and printed by 

B. Cory, commenced August i, 1837. It lasted one year. 

The Pioneer Phalanx a)id Independent Magazine, edited by A. C. S. Bailey, 
and begun in November, 1843, monthly — only one number issued. It was 
to be the organ of the Fourier Association in Watertown. 

Watertown Spectator, for temperance and no license, by Joel Greene, com- 
menced December 22, 1846, lived two years. 

The Sinai and Calvary Reporter, quarterly, by Rev. Joseph A. Livingston, 
begun October, 1852. Only one number issued in Watertown. 

The Phare des Lacs (Beacon of the Lakes), commenced in May, 1858, by 

C. Petit, editor and proprietor, was published several years in Watertown, 
then removed to Buffalo, and from there to Tol5do, where it was discon- 
tinued. 

At a later date several papers have come into being, to wit: The Water- 
town Post, which was started July 16, 1870, by George C. Bragdon & Co., 
G. C. Bragdon, editor. November 2, 1871, Mr. Bragdon retired and the 
firm name was changed to Hanford, Wood & Plumb, W. C. Plumb, editor. 
In 1872 Mr. Plumb retired from the paper and was succeeded as editor by 
J. H. Treadwell. In June, 1874, R. A. Oakes succeeded Mr. Treadwell, 
and the following September the paper was purchased by L. Ingalls, who has 
since edited it. 

In 1883 the Republican was started by Gen. Bradley Winslow, who edited 
and published it until 1884, when it was merged in the Watertown Post. 

The Sunday Miscellany, started in 1878, by Frank M. Redfield as a Sun- 
day paper, at the end of six months was sold to G. Preston Sikes, who 
changed it to a Saturday publication. It lived a year and three weeks. 

The Watertown Advocate, Prohibition, was started in 1884 by George E. 
Satchwell, and is still in existence. 

The Watertown Herald, Independent, was started July 3, 1886, by Jere. 
Coughlin, assisted by F. D. Rogers, and is still published. 

The Silent Worker, an evangelical newspaper, published semi-monthly, 
and edited by Rev. W. D. Stokes, commenced in Watertown, January i, 



NEWSPAPERS. 



107 



Northern Harvester^ one number issued in the latter part of 1882, then 
changed to the Good Farmer, a quarterly, published by Greaves & Dewey, 
edited by D. S. Marvin, published one year at 25 cents. 

The Poultry Chronicle, only a few numbers issued. 

The Annals of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart (Catholic monthly) was 
started in June, 1887, and still lives. 

The Liar, a monthly devoted to " wit, humor, sports, and satire," made its 
first appearance in September, 1889. It was discontinued after a few num- 
bers, its editor and proprietor, Frank D. Rogers, having been appointed to a 
government position in Washington. 

Daily Papers. 

There has been a great demand for a daily paper in Watertown, as is evi- 
dent from the repeated efforts made to bring one into existence. The first 
was started by Joel Greene, in the spring of 1846 — a short-lived venture. 

The Daily Jeffersonian, issued from the office of the Weekly Jeffersonian^ 
initial number dated May 10, 1851, was published two and a half years. 

A campaign paper, called the Daily Republican, was issued from the office 
of the Reformer, by Ingalls & Stowell, from the first of May, 1856, to the 
close of election in that year. It was devoted to the interests of Col. Fre- 
mont and the RepubHcan organization. 

The Daily Telegraph was started in 1858, after the successful laying of the 
Atlantic cable, by J. D. Huntington, who then had charge of the telegraph 
office in Watertown. The enterprise was aided by John H. Rice, WiUiam 
Farwell, and other stock speculators. It was succeeded by the 

Daily Ne-ius, started by L. M. Stowell, March 13, 1859, published one 
year. It was from this office that A. H. Hall issued his 

Daily N'ews, which was commenced in January, i86t. Most of the orig- 
inal matter was prepared by L. J. Bigelow, until March 16, when G. C. Brag- 
don assumed charge of the editorial department, and continued with the 
paper until January 20, 1862, when the plant was sold to the proprietors of 
the 

Daily Reformer, the publication of which was commenced April 22, 1861, 
and while Ingalls, Brockway & Beebee were the publishers of the Weekly Re- 
former. The name of the daily paper was changed to the 

Watertoivn Times, January 4, 1870. It was then a small sheet with less 
than 1,000 subscribers, but now ranks among the best dailies of the country, 
and has a circulation aggregating 4,000. The present publishers and pro- 
prietors are Beman Brockway, J. W. Brockway, and H. A. Brockway. It is 
edited by B. Brockway, assisted by W. D. McKinstry, Alpha Child, L. L. 
Pratt, Charles E. Cole, Charles S. Adams, Fred Britton, and A. W. Munk. 

The Daily Republican, also a morning paper, was started in July, 1888, by 
Ingalls, Shepard & Dewey, L. Ingalls, C. R. Skinner, and H. E. Knicker- 
bock, editors. It lived six months. 



Io8 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Campaign Papers. 

Campaign papers were issued in the summer and fall of 1828, supporting 
Dewitt Clinton for governor, printed by Harvey & Hewitt, and called the 
Voice of Jefferson ; in 1832, anti-Masonic, called the Veto. 

In 1834, anti-Republican, printed by B. Cory, called the Spirit off yd. 

In 1838, Democratic, supporting Ezekiel Lewis for Congress, and C. Par- 
sons, W. C. George, and S. Robbins for Assembly, printed by Randall D. 
Rice, called the Patriot and Democrat. 

In 1840 a Democratic paper from the office of the /e/fersonian. 

SACKETS HARBOR. 

The first printing office in Sackets Harbor was established by George 
Camp, who, as '' proprietor, publisher, and editor," issued the first number of 
the Sackets Barbor Gazette, March 18, 181 7. The following year the title 
of Advertiser was added, and by that title continued to the close of its third 
volume, 1820. Subsequently Matthew Cole, Elisha Camp, and others became 
owners and changed its name, February 9, 182 1, to Jefferson Republican. 
The Gazette and Advertiser was a 20-column folio sheet, and for the times 
was on a par with the better class of newspapers of the state. 

The firm of Camp, Merrell & Camp, of Utica, had been publishers of 
books of a high order of merit previous to their dissolution in 1816. The 
junior member came to Sackets Harbor in December, 1816. His first issue 
contained 18 columns of solid matter and two of advertisements, and was 
gotten out with the help of one assistant. Before the year expired there 
were eight columns of advertisements and many judicial notices. The 
steamer Ontario appears, with cut, in the first number, announced to sail 
upon the opening of navigation, which was to test the question : " Can boats 
be propelled against waves by steam ? " All the current news, foreign and 
domestic, was carefully collated, bringing the most important events with 
illustrious names in history to the front. The Republican was continued for 
a year or more, when its publication was suspended. In the spring of 1824 
Truman Haskall started the Freeinan s Advocate, which continued to the 
close of 1828. All these papers advocated Federal principles. The last was 
strongly anti-Masonic. 

Between this date and 1837 the Sackets Harbor Courier was conducted 
with considerable credit by James How. 

Edward H. Purdy began the publication of the Jeff'ersoii County Whig in 
September, 1837. This continued only one year, though it is pleasantly re- 
membered by the old inhabitants. In October, 1838, Edmund M. Luff" pub- 
lished the Sackets Harbor Journal, edited by D. N. Burnham for a season, 



NEWSPAPERS. 109 



after which W. Luff conducted the paper, with C. Woodward as printer, to 
the spring of 1841. 

About this latter date, when [General] Grant was stationed here. Lieuten- 
ant Lee gave us that disturbing reflection on Watertown, in his contribution 
to \kit Journal : — 

" South, Adams wears her deacon's face, 
North, Bi"ownville stands with modest pace. 
And Watertown 's a little place, 

Just back of Sackets Harbor." 

On Mr. Luff retiring from the Jourfial Joel Greene became proprietor. 
ThQ /ournal vidiS enlarged under his management. The spirit that had per- 
vaded the previous papers passed away with the new element, and, however 
active, it did not presage success. After his second year as publisher his in- 
terest passed to Calvin Green, who, in the same year, 1843, discontinued 
the paper. Joel Greene now undertook to ride two "mules," by publishing 
the Black River yoiir/ial at Sackets Harbor and Watertown, removing the 
press to Watertown. In 1846 it passed into the hands of A. W. Clark. 

No paper was published in Sackets Harbor thence till O. H. Harris issued 
the first number of the Sackels Harbor Observer, March 20, 1848, and un- 
der that head continued with its Whig proclivities until 1852, when Mr. Har- 
ris and Mr. Huntington then associated in the 'Jefferson Fartner, which was 
published as a neutral sheet. Mr. Harris again restored the former title of 
Sackets Harbor Observer, and with his removal from the village ended the 
newspaper enterprise in this village. 

To the credit of these varied sheets none ever stooped to low partisan or 
vulgar methods, but maintained a high standard as instructors of the people. 
In fact they reflected the sentiment of the citizens and the character of the 
inhabitants, who early gave prominence and a marked individuality to the now 
historic town. 

ADAMS. 

The first paper at Adams was started July i, 1828, by Theron Parsons, 
who had previously lived in Watertown, and as the paper he published, 
which was called the Censor, was removed to Watertown after 26 numbers 
nad been issued perhaps he did not change his residence. The Censor was 
anti-Masonic, and probaby anti-Republican. Abner Morton was the editor. 
A reasonably perfect file of the Censor, from the time it was commenced at 
Adams, July i, 1828, to the time it was sold to Abner Morton, in Watertown, 
January 5, 1830, has been presented to the Jefferson Historical Society, by 
Justus Eddy, of Syracuse, and handsomely bound for its use. The first 
issue of the paper under Mr. Morton's management is " number 70, of vol- 
ume 2," indicating an unusual way of numbering, as in the regular way the 
highest number for a weekly issue would be 52, after which the volume would 
change, and the numbers of the issues would begin at one again. When the 



no JEFFERSON COUNTY, 



Censor was removed to VVatertown the Anti-Masotiic Recorder was discon- 
tinued, the Censor taking its place as the organ of the Anti-Masonic party. 
When Abner Morton announced his connection with the Censor in Water- 
town, January 5, 1830, there were two papers in the village — the Freeman, 
Republican, and the Register, anti-Republican. 

The Censor was published about five months (till June 8, 1830), when 
Enoch Ely Camp was announced as the editor. He is said to have been 
concerned in the paper from the beginning. He changed its name to the 
Anti-Masonic Sun. It was afterwards published 39 weeks by Dr. R.Goodale, 
commencing December 13, 1830, as the Constellation, and subsequently it 
passed into the hands of Mr. Morton, who called it the Jefferson Reporter^ 
and published it from September 11, 1832, till January 21, 1834, when he 
removed to Michigan, taking his press with him. 

There was no other paper at Adams until 1844, when Josephus C. Hatch,, 
a practical printer, and brother-in-law of the late Alvin Hunt, started the 
Jefferson County Democrat, which he continued until 1847, when the paper 
passed into the hands of E. J. Clark. He was with Mr. Hatch about three 
years, or until the first of July, 1847, when he purchased the interest of Hatch, 
and continued the publication of the paper eight years, when he removed 
to Watertown and went into the miUing business with his brother, Samuel 
Clark. The business not being remunerative he quit it, and in the fall of 
1857 purchased the Jefferson County Uniofi, associating with him Royal 
Chamberlain. Three years afterward he purchased Mr. Chamberlain's inter- 
est, and remained sole proprietor until the fall of 1864, when he sold out to 
R. A. Oakes. Since that date, though a writer for various papers, he has had 
no pecuniary interest in any except for a brief term, while a resident of 
Michigan. 

After the removal of Mr. Clark to Watertown the Democrat came into 
the hands of Justus Eddy. Mr. Eddy changed the name of the paper to 
the Jeff'erson County News, and made it independent in politics. It had 
hitherto been Democratic, belonging to the free- soil or barn-burner wing of 
the party. This was in 1855. Mr. Eddy was the publisher of the paper 
about eight years. 

In 1863' D. A. D wight, an Adams bookseller, was associated with Mr. 
Eddy, and the paper was continued by them until April, 1865, when it 
was sold to George C. Bragdon, who changed the name to the Adams 
Visitor, and was burnt out a day or two before his first number was to have 
been printed. He immediately purchased new type and presses, issued 
the following week, thus skipping only one number, and continued to publish 
the paper something over three years, when he sold to Babcock & Delong, 
who conducted it until 1868. 

The next year S. R. Pratt purchased Mr. Babcock's interest, and on the 
15th of April, 1869, the form of the paper was changed to eight pages, and 
the name to N'ortherti Temperance Journal, becoming the organ of the Good 



NEWSPAPERS. 



Templars. It was continued as such until October 20, 1870, when Pratt & 
Delong changed the name to the Jefferson County Journal, and made it an 
independent sheet. 

In 1871 William J.Allen purchased Pratt'sinterest, and four months later 
S. W. Hatch Delong's interest, the new firm being Hatch & Allen. The 
paper was continued by these gentlemen until the health of Mr. Hatch gave 
out, when he sold his interest to Mr. Allen, who has since been its efficient 
conductor. 

The Adams Herald was founded in March, 1876, by H. W. Gunther & 
Co., with C. W. Jennings as editor, and continued one year, when the ma- 
terials were purchased by the Journal. 

CARTHAGE. 

On December 19, 1839, the first paper appeared in Carthage, the most of 
the funds being furnished by H. McCoUom, then the leading business man 
of the place. It was named the Carthagenian, and David Johnson was the 
editor. It was a weekly Whig paper, but principally devoted to the Black 
River Canal. June 18, 1840, William H. Hough became the editor. It was 
a six-column folio. 

In April, 1843, the paper appeared under the name of the Black River 
Times, reduced in size, with the same editor. It was only continued for a 
short time. 

January i, 1847, Myron F. Wilson began the publication of the People s 
Press, a semi-monthly neutral paper. In the third number W. H. Colston 
became associate editor, and in September L. Jones took charge of it. It 
was soon discontinued. 

In January, 1858, W. R. Merrill and E. R. Cole, who were publishing a 
paper in Constableville, were prevailed upon to bring their press and mate- 
rial to Carthage, and A. W. Allen started the Carthage Standard. W. R. 
Merrill became proprietor soon after the paper was started, and in a few 
months it was published by Merrill & Cole, with Charles T. Hammond as 
associate editor. 

The Stajidard was succeeded in December, 1858, by the Black River 
Budget, which was published by Almont Barnes and Alva Wilson. This 
paper was continued for a little over a year. Mr. Barnes became sole pro- 
prietor after it had run about eight, months. 

In the spring of i860 Marcus Bickford commenced the publication of the 
Republican, with O. T. Atwood, associate editor. In September, 1865, 
James H. Wilbur became proprietor, and Mr. Bickford was retained as editor. 
In September, 1866, M. M. WiUiams became a partner, and in 1872 the sole 
proprietor. It was during his administration that the paper was enlarged to 
its present size, the old hand press discarded, and the power press intro- 
duced. In January, 1873, S. R. Pratt became proprietor. Mr. Pratt started, 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



in connection with the Republican^ the Farme?s Journal^ as an organ of 
the State Grange, and sold it to John O'Donnell, of Lowville, in 1876. 

In April, 1875, Durham & Gillett started the Northern New Yorker, and 
in the fall Wesley Barr became proprietor. In the April following Jere. 
Coughlin became editor, and continued so until the paper was consolidated 
with the Republican. 

In August, 1876, Lloyd G. Chase became proprietor of the Republican^ 
with Jere. Coughhn as associate editor. Mr. Chase is the present proprietor- 

In 1879 E. D. Bates moved his press and material from Copenhagen, and 
started the Carthage Democrat. It lasted about three months. 

In March, 1876, B. G. & C. E. Seamans started the Carthage Leader. 
In June of the same year it was purchased by Jere. Coughlin, who combined 
its list with three other papers in starting the Watertonni Herald. 

In October, 1887, the Carthage Tribune was started by a stock company, 
with William B. Kesler as editor and business manager. G. W. Dickinson 
is now the editor. 

THERESA. 

The Theresa Chronicle was started at Theresa, January 14, 1848, and con- 
tinued 28 weeks, published by Elisha Church Burt, brother of Benjamin Burt, 
of Ox Bow. The press was subsequently removed to Madrid, St. Lawrence 
County, whence it was taken to Canton. The Chronicle was to a large ex- 
tent edited by James L. Bufiford and William Fayel. The latter went from 
Theresa to Lockport and was engaged in the conduct of the Lockport Journal 
something like two years. He then removed to St. Louis and took a" posi- 
tion upon the Republican, which he still holds. Mr. Bufiford went to Boston, 
and from there to California, where, it is said, he was killed in a duel. Vic- 
tor Cooper, who still resides in Theresa, worked in the office of the Chronicle 
during the time of its publication, and afterwards with the late Alvin Hunt, of 
Watertown, but ultimately abandoned printing to engage in trade. Mr. Burt 
went west from Theresa, and turned up a soldier in the late war. 

When Major Durham started his paper in Carthage, in 1875, he proposed 
to print an edition for Theresa, to be called the Theresa Journal, and to con- 
tain the local doings of that thrifty village. The enterprise, however, was 
short-lived, and Theresa again found itself without a newspaper of any kind. 

In 1881, or thereabouts, W. S. Saunderson, a practical printer, went to 
Theresa and started a paper, which he called the Theresa Advertiser, and 
which was continuted somewhere about two years. The materials were finally 
brought to Watertown, and were employed in the newspaper commenced 
by Gen. Bradley Winslow, called the Northern Neiv York Republican, and 
Mr. Saunderson ofiicated as foreman in the office. The paper did not last 
a great while, however, and the materials were sold to the proprietors of the 
Post, and are now in" use in that office. 



NEWSPAPERS. 113,-. 



The next effort to give the Theresa people a newspaper was made by Mr. 
Van Slyke, of the Atitwerp Gazette, who dated some copies of his paper at 
Theresa, caUing it the Sentinel. That arrangement is continued by Mr. Van 
Slyke's successors. Mr. Beamen at one time had charge or the Theresa 
branch office ; at another time Robert Jackson was the Theresa editor. 

CAPE VINCENT. 

The Cape Vincent Gazette was started by Paul T. Leach, and the first 
number was dated May 8, 1858. It was succeeded by the Frontier Patriot, 
May 10, 1865, with P. H. Keenan, editor and proprietor. Mr. Keenan 
entered the army the same year, when the name of Robert Mitchell appeared 
as editor, and P. H. Keenan as proprietor. In the fall of 1862 Mitchell 
absented himself to buy a nev/ stock of paper, and did not return. The Cape 

Vincent Eagle appeared on the loth of April, 1872, established by Ames & 
Hunt. Hunt soon after sold out to his partner, who contmued as publisher 
till the spring of 1877, when Mr. Ames disposed of his paper to Charles B. 
Wood, who subsequently changed the name to the Democratic Eagle, and 
has since conducted it with success. It now bears the name of the Cape 

Vincent Eagle. 

CLAYTON. 

The first paper published in the town of Clayton was started in May, 1873,^ 
when two young men, William D. Clark and George Beden, started the Clay- 
ton Independent. It was a seven-column folio, and was printed on a Wash- 
ington hand press. Mr. Beden retired from the partnership after the first 
issue, and Mr. Clark continued the business for two years and then sold out 
to W. H. Rees, a young lawyer, and a native of that place. Mr. Rees ran- 
the paper for about a year, when he sold the plant to Warren W. Ames, of 
De Ruyter. He soon sold out to George A. Lansing, who did not make a 
financial success of the business. Mr. Ames, again having control of the 
paper, sold a half interest to Frank D. Rogers, then of Chaumont. In about 
a year Frank D. Braun purchased the interest of W. W. Ames, and for two 
years the paper was published by Rogers & Braun. During this time the- 
paper was enlarged to a five-column quarto. E. C. Rogers, a younger 
brother of Frank D , purchased the interest of Mr. Braun and a power press 
was added. For three years the business was successfully carried on and a 
large circulation was secured. In the winter of 1882-83, owing to disagree- 
ment in the management, the publication of the paper was suspended. 

June 26, 1883, the first number of the Clayton Standard was issued, with 
C. E. & F. G. Hocknel as editors and proprietors. In November, 1884, C. E. 
Hocknel purchased the interest of the brother, and two months later changed' 
the name of the paper to On the St. Lawrence. A year later Ratchford,. 
Phillips & Slate purchased the paper. 



114 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



In the spring of 1884 the Clayton Independent was again started by 
Frank D. Rogers, but after six months was again discontinued, owing to a 
lack of patronage. 

In the spring of 1885 E. D. & W. M. Vincent began the publication of a 
seven-column folio, called the Free Press, \iw\L failing to secure a fair share of 
the patronage soon suspended. 

In the fall of 1886 W. H. Rees purchased the plant of Ratchford, Phillips 
& Slate. January i, 1888, Phillips & McCarn purchased the paper from 
W. H. Rees. The name of W. B. Phillips now appears as editor and pro- 
prietor. 

ANTWERP. 

The Antwerp Gazette was commenced by James M. Beaman, September 
I, 1873. He sold to James W. Van Slyke, December 24, 1874, who con- 
ducted it till December 12, 1888. He then sold to M. H. Bent. Mr. Van 
Slyke started the Philadelphia Monitor^ May i, 1883, and the Theresa Sen- 
tinel, November i, 1886. Both papers are still published, and issued from 
the office of the Gazette. 

BLACK RIVER. 

The Black River Herald, weekly, formerly the Croghan Nezvs, was estab- 
lished in Black River in May, 1889; proprietor and editor, P. B. Mereness ; 
independent in politics. It suspended publication in April, 1890. 

THE THOUSAND ISLANDS. 

'• The Thousand Isles! The Thousand Isles! 
Dimpled, the wave around them smiles, 
Kissed by a thousand red-lipped tlowei's, 
Gemmed by a thousand emerald bowers; 
A thousand birds their praises wake, 
By rocky glade and plumy brake; 
A thousand cedars' fragrant shade 
Fails where the Indians' children played; 
And Fancy's dream my heart beguiles 
While singing thee, thou Thousand Isles! " 

The Thousand Islands have been the subject of descriptive writers — poets, 
novelists, historians, tourists — since they were first visited by white men, all 
bearing testimony to the wondrous natural beauty and picturesquenessof this 
incomparable region. Long before the advance of civilization had driven the 
aborigines hence the Indians had recognized the beauty and tranquil grand- 
eur of the place, and had designated it Matiatoana, or Garden of the Great 
Spirit. 

For many years before the locality became famous as a summer resort a 
few persons, some of them men of note, made this their favorite fishing-ground 
and summer outing-place. It was not until 1872, however, that the grand 



THE THOUSAND ISLANDS. II5 

rush to the islands commenced. Since that time hundreds of thousands of 
dollars have been expended in the erection of private homes, hotels, and pub- 
lic parks, and in the improvement of the many beautiful islands, of which 
there are, in this famous archipelago, as stated officially in the Treaty of 
Ghent, 1,692. 

This charming locality attracts people from all parts of the United States 
and Canada, and from Europe, who spend a portion of their summers here, 
hundreds, almost thousands, of whom have built for themselves summer 
houses, some modest but comfortable, while others are more pretentious, and 
in many cases grand and palatial. The scene at night during the height of 
the season is gorgeous mdeed. At that time the cottages on the islands are 
mostly illuminated with colored lanterns, and the steam yachts, with, their 
gay parties, go flitting by, the whole scene, like a kaleidoscope, continually 
changing, but ever beautiful and full of surprises. 

Much of historical interest is associated with this region, which has four 
times been the boundary line between contending nations. The first great 
strife was inaugurated before white men were known here, and was car- 
ried on between the two great savage nations, the Algonquins and Iroquois, 
the former dwelling for the most part to the northward and eastward, while 
the latter had their prmcipal homes along the lakes and rivers of Central and 
Western New York. Champlain found this feud in existence in 1608, and 
formed an alliance with the Algonquins againt the Iroquois, which made the 
latter nation the deadly enemy of the French ever after. Following this 
sanguinary period came one not less bloody — the French and Indian war. 
The next period of strife was the Revolutionary war, which was followed by 
ihe War of 181 2, thoroughly establishing the independence of the United 
States. The hostile events of 1837-40, generally denominated as the 
" Patriot war," in which an abortive attempt was made to revolutionize the 
Canadas, also found in this region the theater of operations. 

An extensive sketch of the Thousand Islands should include a particular 
description of the portion owned by private individuals, with their costly 
improvements. This we will not attempt here, but will simply give some 
account of the public parks and hotels, which receive the patronage of thous- 
ands of visitors during the summer season. 

The Thousand Island Park Association was incorporated as '• The Thous- 
and Island Camp-Meeting Association," in December, 1874, with a cap- 
ital stock of $15,000, in shares of $10. Its present name was assumed by 
special act passed January 18, 1879. It was organized as a religious institu- 
tion, and is under the management of the Methodist Episcopal denomination, 
although many persons not of this denomination have residences upon the 
grounds and participate in the proceedings. The park is located upon 
Wells or Wellesley Island, and occupies the point known upon Capt. Owen's 
British chart of 1818 as " Talavera Head." It was, surveyed by Frank A. 
Hinds, of Watertown, in 1875, and originally embraced a tract of about 983 



Il6 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



acres, which has since been curtailed by the sale of about 200 acres. The 
capital stock was, about 1883-84, increased to $50,000, and a large hotel, 
facing upon a fine lawn and overlooking the river, was erected. The park 
contains about 400 cottages, and is supplied with a general store, meat 
market, book store, plumber's shop, and other trade conveniences. A post- 
office is located here, and a deputy customs office is stationed here during 
the season of navigation. 

The tabernacle, erected at the head of St. Lawrence avenue, will seat 3,500 
people, and for a period of about a month, in July and August, interesting 
lectures, meetings, concerts, etc., are held almost daily. A system of sewer- 
age has been inaugurated. Water from the river is forced by a steam pump 
to the reservoir tanks on the mountain, from whence it is very generally dis- 
tributed to cottages about the park. The present officers are George P. 
Folts, president; O. P. Hadcock, treasurer; and W. R. Fitch, secretary. 

The West?ninster Park Association of the Thousand Islands was incorpo- 
rated in 1875 with a capital stock of $50,000, divided into shares of $100 
each. In 1877 the capital stock was reduced to $30,000. The association 
purchased 500 acres on the northwest point of Wells Island, known on Owen's 
chart as Point Victoria, having nearly five miles. of water front in the mean- 
ders of the shore. In addition to this purchase there has also been made 
another, of Isle Mary, or Picnic Point, of 25 acres area, separated from the 
park by a narrow channel a few feet in width, connected with the park by a bridge. 
The enterprise, though inaugurated under the auspices of the Presbyterians, 
is not intended to be strictly denominational. Extensive improvements have 
been made, a good hotel (H. F. Inglehart, prop.) and numerous fine cottages 
erected, and withal the park is, with other resorts upon the river, growing in 
patronage. It is connected by steamer with Alexandria Bay. 

Round Island Park 'f^dA\<c\cox^oxdXQ^\n. 1879 with a capital of $50,000, 
in shares of $100. The island contains about 175 acres, and has been laid 
out into 400 lots, besides avenues, ornamental parks, picnic grounds, etc. 
It is one mile long and from 800 to 1,200 feet wide, and lies about a quarter 
of a mile from the mainland, and a mile and a-half from Clayton village. 
This park was originally under the especial patronage of the Baptists, but its 
management is now non-sectarian. A dock 260 feet long and 14 feet m 
depth was built, and in 1880 an hotel 50 by 200 feet, four stories high, was 
erected. In 1889 the hotel was enlarged and greatly improved, and will now 
accommodate between 400 and 500 guests. 

Central Park is located upon the mainland, about midway between Alex- 
andria Bay and Thousand Island Park. This park was incorporated about 
188 1, with a capital stock of $25,000. A commodious hotel, now under the 
management of H. F. Inglehart, and 12 cottages have been erected, with suf- 
ficient dockage and other improvements, making about $40,000 invested. 
The present officers are Byron B. Taggart, president ; O. G. Staples, vice- 
president ; Joseph Atwell, Jr., secretary ; S. T. Woolworth, treasurer. 



INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS. II7 

Grand View Park was surveyed and laid out as a public park in 1885. 
It is located on the northwestern point of Wells or Wellesley Island, on 
what was given the name of " Oporto Head " on Captain Owen's chart of 
1818, and contains about 25 acres. It is the enterprise of Hamilton Child, of 
Syracuse, who, in 1886, erected a cottage and commenced the extensive im- 
provements which have greatly enhanced the natural beauty of this pictures- 
que spot. Since then the cottage has been enlarged and used as an hotel, and 
numerous private residences have been erected. For so recent a venture its 
growth has been phenomenal, owing largely, no doubt, to its central location 
and contiguity to the best fishing-grounds in the Thousand Island region. 
This park has 22S building lots. It has almost hourly connection by steamer 
with Thousand Island Park. 

Grennell Island Pa?-k is the property of Samuel B. Grennell, who for more 
than 30 years has resided on a small island near that upon which the park is 
located, and with which it is connected by a bridge. This park was started 
about 1882, and is situated upon what is known on the early charts as Stew- 
art or Jeffcrs Island, which lies south of Wells Island, opposite Thousand 
Island Park. A new hotel has been erected on the small island, which is 
owned by J. I. Sayles, of Rome, and will be ready for occupancy during the 
season of 1890. Several private cottages have been erected on the larger 
island. 

Prospect Park occupies a tract of 50 acres upon Bartlett Point, about a 
mile above the depot at Clayton. It has been laid out into lots and streets, 
and a considerable amount of grading and improvement has been dene ; but 
it has not as yet attracted much attention from island visitors. The point 
commands a fine prospect, and was the scene of an engagement in the War 
of 18x2-15. 

Edgeivood Park is located upon the mainland, near the village of Alexan- 
dria Bay. A fine hotel, or club house, and several cottages have been erected 
here. It contains about 30 acres, and has been incorporated by the Edge- 
wood Park Association, composed mostly of gentlemen from Cleveland, Ohio. 

Murray Hill Park. — Hancock or Murray Island will hereafter be known 
as Murray Hill Park. The island has been purchased of Captain J. A. 
Taylor, the former owner, by a syndicate of capitalists, who are now (May, 
1890) surveying and laying it out in lots and avenues. The island is well 
located, and no doubt will, in due time, become a very popular place of 
summer resort. 

INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS. 

The first effort to improve the facilities for travel in this section of the 

state was probably made in 1791, when Arthur Noble and Baron Steuben 

petitioned the legislature of the state of New York for a road " from the 

Little Falls on the Mohawk River to the falls on the Black River which runs 

8» 



Il8 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



into Lake Ontario." The committee in the legislature to whom the petition 
was referred reported in favor of the project, but we have not been able to 
ascertain that anything further was accomplished. The first settlers found 
their way into the country by using the navigable channel of Black River from 
the High Falls to the present village of Carthage., or by the tedious and peril- 
ous navigation of the lake, by way of Oswego. 

The French road. — In anticipation of settlement Rodolph Tillier, agent of 
the French Company, had caused to be opened a route from the High Falls, 
east of Black River, to near the great bend, from which it continued in a line 
nearly direct to the present village of Clayton. A branch from this diverged 
from the head of navigation on Black River Bay, but these roads, though 
cleared and the stumps removed, had no bridges, and consequently were of 
no use to the early settlers. This road fell entirely into disuse, and it is 
doubtful whether a rod of it is now traveled. 

The Osivegatchie road. — The first traveled road in the county north of 
Black River owes its origin to Judge Nathan Ford, of Ogdensburg. The 
road extended from Ogdensburg to Turin, in Lewis County, and thence to 
Albany. It entered Jefferson County at Ox Bow, in the town of Antwerp, 
where it met the Black River road, on the opposite side of the river. Judge 
Ford, in a letter to Samuel Ogden, announced " having finished cutting the 
road, and all the logs turned, excepting about eight miles, and the party goes 
out to-morrow morning to finish that ; after which, I think, the road may be 
said to be passable for sleighs, although there is considerable digging yet to 
be done, as well as crossways," 

The road was first opened by a subscription among the landholders, and its 
continuation through Lewis County was long known as the Oswegatchie road. 
The sums raised by these means proved inadequate to build the road of the 
character which the country demanded, and narrow, sectional, and local jeal- 
ousies were found to embarrass the enterprise. 

It was next attempted, with success, to obtain state patronage for this work; 
and on April 9, 1804, a lottery was created for the purpose of raising the sum 
of $22,000 to construct a road from Troy to Greenwich, and " from or near 
the head of Long Falls, in the county of Oneida, to the mills of Nathan 
Ford, at Oswegatchie, in St. Lawrence County." The latter was to be six 
rods wide, and Nathan Ford, Alexander J. Turner, and Joseph Edsell were 
appointed commissioners for making it. Of the above sum $12,000 was 
appropriated for this road. The summer of 1805 was devoted to the loca- 
tion and opening of the road, and on October 26, 1805, Judge Ford wrote : 
"I have just returned from laying out the State road between Ogdensburg 
and the Long Falls, upon Black River, and I am happy to tell you we have 
made great alterations (from the old road) for the better, also as well as 
shortening the distance." 



INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS. II9 

STATE ROADS. 

An act was passed March 26, 1803, for opening and improving certain 
great roads of the state with the proceeds of a lottery, to be drawn under the 
supervision of Philip Ten Eyck, Thomas Storm, William Henderson, Mat- 
thias B. Tallmadge, and Jacobus Van Shoonhoven. The fund so raised was 
intended to be chiefly applied to the opening of roads in the Black River 
country, and was limited to $41,500. Nathan Sage, Henry Huntington, and 
Jacob Brown were appointed commissioners for opening a road from Salina, 
and thence through Redfield to Champion and St. Lawrence County, and 
th^ese were, by an act passed April 9, 1804, authorized and empowered to 
make such deviations on said route as they deemed proper, nothwithstanding 
the provisions of the original act. 

Jacob Brown, Walter Martin, and Peter Schuyler where appointed under 
the act of March 26, 1803, to locate the road through the Black River valley, 
which, for a long time, was known as the State road, and $30,000 were ex- 
pended under that act. Silas Stow acted a short time as one of the com- 
missioners, both on the Black River and the Johnstown section, with Brown, 
Martin, and Schuyler. By an act of April 8, 1808, Augustus Sacket, David 
I. Andrus, and John Meacham were empowered to lay out a public road four 
rods wide, " commencing at such place in Brownville and Hounsfield as 
shall, in the opinion of the commissioners, best unite with the great road 
leading from Rome to the River St. Lawrence at Putnam's ferry, and pursu- 
ing such route as in their opinion shall best accommodate the public in gen- 
eral, to the village of Salina." 

By an act of April 2, 1813, the surveyor-general was "authorized and re- 
quired to sell and dispose of so much of the unappropriated lands of this 
state, on a credit of 12 months, lying in the county of Oneida, called the 
Fish Creek land, as shall raise the sum of $4,000 ; and the same is hereby 
appropriated for improving the road from Sackets Harbor, on Lake Ontario, 
to the village of Rome, in the county of Oneida, being the road heretofore 
laid out by commissioners appointed by the state, and pay the same over to 
Henry Huntington, Clark Allen, and Dan Taft, who are hereby appointed 
superintendents to take charge of the expenditures of said sum, for the ob- 
jects aforesaid." 

An act was passed April i, 18 14, appointing William Smith, George Bray- 
ton, and Benjamin Wright to lay out a road from Salina to Smith's Mills 
(Adams), to intersect at that place the State road from Rome, through Red- 
field and Lorraine, to Brownville. The road was completed to Adams, and 
was long known as the Salt Point road. In 1816 a State road was directed 
to be laid out from Lowville to Henderson Harbor, which was surveyed, but 
the whole of it was not opened. A road from French Creek to Watertown 
was, by an act of April i, 1824, directed to be made under the supervision of 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



A.mos Stebbins, Azariah Doane, and Henry H. Cofifeen. By an act of April' 
19, 1834, Loren Bailey, Azariah Walton, and E. G. Merrick were appointed 
to lay out a road along the St. Lawrence, from near the line of Lyme and 
Clayton, to Chippewa Bay, in Hammond. The cost, not exceeding $100 per 
mile, was to be taxed to adjacent lands ; and in 1836, 1838, and 1839 the 
act was amended and extended. April 4, 1841, a State road was authorized 
to be laid out from Carthage to Lake Champlain, which was subsequently 
surveyed and opened the whole distance. 

The enterprise of individual proprietors led, at an early day, to the open- 
ing of extended lines of roads, among which were the Morris and Hammond 
road, the Alexandria road, etc. The tour of President Monroe in 181 7 proba- 
bly led to the project of uniting the two prominent miUtary stations of Platts- 
burgh and Sackets Harbor by a military road, which was soon after begun. 
A report of John C. Calhoun, then Secretary of War, dated January 7, 18 19,. 
mentions this among other national works then in progress. The labor was 
done by relief parties of soldiers from these garrisons, who received an extra 
allowance of 15 cents and a gill of whisky daily. The western extremity,, 
from Sackets Harbor, through Brownville, Pamelia Four Corners, and Red- 
wood, to Hammond, and from Plattsburgh to the east line of Franklin County, 
only were completed. The care of the general government ended with the 
opening of these roads, and the portion in this county has been maintained 
as a town road. 

TURNPIKES. 

The Oneida and Jefferson Turnpike Company was incorporated April 8, 
1808, for the purpose of making a road from Rome via Redfield and Malta 
(Lorraine) to Putnam's ferry, on the St. Lawrence. The persons named in 
the act were Nathan Sage, Peter Colt, Augustus Sacket, Jacob Brown, David" 
Smith, and Eliphalet Edmonds ; capital, 4,700 shares of $25 each. A 
company with the same name and a capital of $20,000 was chartered May 3,. 
1834, but never got into efficient operation. The commissioners named 
were Elisha Camp, Thomas C. Chittenden, Clark Allen, Ira Seymour, Nelson 
Darley, and Alanson Bennet. 

The St. Lawrence Tnrfipike Company, formed April 5, 1810, of 29 leading 
landholders of Northern New York, headed by J. Le Ray, built, in 1812-13, 
a turnpike from a point five and a half miles north of Carthage to Bangor, 
Frankhn County. They were, in 1813, released from completing the termini, 
which had originally been intended to be the Long Falls and Malone. The 
road was opened under the supervision of Russell Attwater, and built from 
the proceeds of lands subscribed for its construction along the route. Dur- 
ing the war it was a source of great profit, but afterwards fell into disuse, and 
the company was, by an act of April, 1826, allowed to abandon it to the public. 

The Ogdeiisburg Turnpike Company, formed June 8, 181 2. capital $50,000,. 
and mainly sustained by David Parish, soon after built a turnpike from Car- 



INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS. 



thage to Ogdensburg, by way of Antwerp, Rossie, and Morristown. This 
was also, by act of April, 1826, surrendered to the public. By an act passed 
March 30, 181 1, the governor was to appoint commissioners to lay out two 
turnpikes. One of these was to pass from Lowville, by way of Munger's 
Mills and Watertown, to Brownville; the other from Munger's Mills to Sackets 
Harbor. 

On February 13, 1812,. James Le Ray asked permission of the legislature 
to make a turnpike road from Chaumont, in the town of Brownville, to Cape 
Vincent, and from the Black River, opposite the village of Watertown, to inter- 
sect the St. Lawrence turnpike road at or near where the same crossed the 
Indian River, in the town of Le Ray. The war which soon ensued diverted 
attention for a time from this improvement ; but in March, 1815, an act was 
passed empowering Le Ray to build the Cape Vincent turnpike from that 
place to Perch River. On April 12, 18 16, he was allowed to extend the 
road to Brownville village. By an act of April 21, 1831, this road was 
surrendered to the public, and with it ended the era of turnpikes in the 
•county. 

PLANK ROADS. 

The first plank road in the county was completed in 1848, and extended 
from Watertown to Sackets Harbor. The Lowville and Carthage Plank 
Road was inspected August 4, 1849. The Carthage and Antwerp Plank 
Road was inspected November 13, 1849. Tne Sterling Bush and North 
U'il/ia Plank Road, connecting the last road with the village of Louisburg, 
or Sterling Bush, in Lewis County, was finished about 1854. The Gouverneur, 
Somerville, and Antwerp Plank Road was inspected November 14, 1849. A 
continuous line of plank roads connected this with Ogdensburg, Canton, 
and the depot of Canton and Madrid on the Northern Railroad, and one mile 
from Antwerp village with the Hammond, Rossie, and Antwerp Plank Road, in- 
spected October 24, 1850, 20 miles in length, passing through Rossie valiage, 
and connecting with the village of Morristown. At the village of Ox Bow 
it connected with the Evans Mills and Ox Bow Plank Road, 17 miles long, 
completed in June, 1852. The Patnelia and Evatis Mills Plank Road, con- 
tinuing this route to Watertown, was completed in June, 1850. Antwerp and 
Watertown were connected by the Antwerp, Sterlingrille, and Great Bend 
Plank Road, completed in August, 1849, and the Watertown and Great Bend 
Plank Road, covn'^XQiQiX late in the same year. The latter passed through the 
villages of Black River and Felt's Mills. At the village of Great Bend this 
and the former road connected with the Great Bend and Copenhagen Plank 
Road, completed in November, 1849. This road passed through Champion 
village, and connected with the Rutland and Champion Plank Road, which 
extended from Copenhagen to within three and a half miles of Watertown 
village, and was completed in August, 1849. This line was continued to 



122 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Watertown village by the Waterfozvn Plank and Turnpike Road, which was 
completed in September, 1849. 

The Watertown Central Plank Road, two miles long, completed in August, 
1849, was at first designed to connect with other roads, forming a line of 
plank roads to Syracuse, but the building of the railroad necessitated the 
abandonment of the plan. The Adams and Ellisburgh Plank Road was 
completed in June, 1849, ^"<^ connected with roads to Syracuse, Oswego, etc. 
The Dexter, B?-07vnville, and Pamelia Plank Road, connecting Pamelia vil- 
lage with Dexter, was completed in October, 1850. It was continued by the 
Dexter and Limerick Plank Road to the town line of Lyme, towards Cape 
Vincent, completed in May, 1850. It also connected with the Dexter and 
Hounsfield P lank Road, which ran from Dexter to the Watertotvn and Sackets 
Harbor Road near the latter place. A line of roads from Alexandria Bay to 
Watertown was projected, and mostly finished, consisting of the Theresa and 
Alexandria Bay Plank Road, 12 miles long, completed in December, 1849, 
and the Theresa Plank Road, towards Evans Mills, of which about four miles 
were completed in July, 1852. The Theresa a?id Clayton Plank Road, 
between these places, was completed in June, 1850. This road passed 
through La Fargeville. 

These roads generally contributed much to the prosperity of the country 
for a time, until the railroads were extended through the county, when the 
system was abandoned and the lines transformed into graveled or ordinary 
turnpikes. Nothing now remains to remind the traveler of their existence, 
save here and there a piece of scantling or broken plank. 

RAILROADS. 

The Watertown and Rotne Railroad was incorporated April 17, 1832. 
The company was empowered to build a railroad from Rome to Watertown, 
and thence to St. Lawrence River or Lake Ontario, or both, with a capital 
of $1,000,000, in shares of $100. The charter, which was repeatedly revived 
and amended, was never allowed to expire, and after years of patient and 
preserving effort the road was opened. Work was commenced at Rome in 
November, 1848, and soon after at other important points, and the road was 
so far completed as to allow the passage of trains to Camden in the fall of 
1849. May 28, 185 1, the road was completed to Pierrepont Manor, and a 
large party from Watertown, Rome, and other sections assembled to cele- 
brate the era of the entrance of the first railroad train into Jefferson County. 
The first engine reached Watertown September 5, at 11 o'clock at night, and 
on the 24th of the same month its completion to that place was again cele- 
brated with festivities. On November 20 it was finished to Chaumont and 
in April, 1852, to Cape Vincent. The first officers were Orville Hungerford, 
president ; Clark Rice, secretary ; and Orville V. Brainard, treasurer. Mr. 
Hungerford died before the road was completed, and on April lo, 1851,. 



INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS. 



123 



Hon. William C. Pierrepont was elected president. The total length of the 
line was gj^ miles, and its total cost $1,957,992. 

In January, 1852, a company was organized to construct a road from 
Watertown to Potsdam Junction, a point on the Vermont Central Railroad, 
which latter extends from Ogdensburg to Rouse's Point, at the foot of Lake 
Champlain. The Potsdam branch, 76 miles in length, was completed in 
1854, and up to i860 was called the Potsdam and Watertotvn Railroad^ when 
it came into the possession of the Watertown and Rome Railroad Company. 
In 1861-62 the latter company put down a track from De Kalb Junction, a 
point on the Potsdam and Watertown road, to Ogdensburg, a distance of 19 
miles, and the roads were consolidated and the names changed by the legis- 
lature to the Rotne, Waterfoivn, and Ogdensburg Railroad Company. 

In 1866 the Oswego and Rome Railroad, extending from Oswego 29 miles 
to Richland, was put in operation and leased to the R., W. & O. The Syra- 
cuse Northern Railroad, extending from Syracuse to Sandy Creek Junction 
on the R., W. «Sr O. R. R., was completed in 1870, and in 1875 was consoli- 
dated with the latter. The Lake Ontario Shore Railroad., running from 
Oswego west to Charlotte (Rochester's port of entry), and to its western ter- 
minus at Niagara Falls and Suspension Bridge, ont he Niagara River, 150 
miles, was also merged in the R., W. & O. in January, 1875. 

The Utica and Black Ri7>er Railway was opened from Utica to Boonville, 
Oneida County, a distance of 35 miles, in 1855. In 1868 the line was put 
in operation to Lowville, Lewis County, a further distance of 24 miles. In 
1872 it reached Carthage, 16 miles farther. The original plan to construct 
a line to Clayton, Morristown, and Ogdensburg, on the St. Lawrence River, 
was not immediately carried out. While the division between Lowville and 
Carthage was in course of construction a company was organized in Water- 
town, under the title of Carthage^ Watertown., and Sachets Harbor Railroad 
Company., and a road constructed in 1872, from Watertown to Carthage, 18 
miles, which was completed about the time the Utica and Black River Com- 
pany reached the same point. Upon the completion of the road from Wa- 
tertown to Carthage it was leased to the Utica and Blacic River Company. 

In 1873 the Clayton and Theresa Railroad via.s completed, mainly through 
the efforts of Alden F. Barker and Russell B. Biddlecom, and in 1885 was 
consolidated with the Utica and Black River system. In 1874 the Carthage, 
Watertown, and Sackets Harbor Company completed a road from Watertown 
to Sackets Harbor, which was the same year leased to the Utica and Black 
River line. 

The Black River and Morristown Raihvay filed articles of incorporation 
with the secretary of state March 22, 1870. The capital stock was fixed at 
$600,000, and Philadelphia, in Jefferson County, and Morristown, in St. 
Lawrence County, were made the termini of the road. The length of the 
proposed line was 37 miles. The railroad was opened from Philadelphia to 
Theresa, a distance of eight miles, in December, 1872, and by October, 1873, 



124 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



the work was nearly completed. On October 29, 1873, the company 
contracted with the Utica and Black River Railway Company to complete 
the road, giving that company the use of the road for eight years, and trans- 
ferring to them the unexpended balance of $500,000 in bonds issued by the 
Black River and Morristown Company. Under this contract the road was 
completed and opened to Redwood in November, 1874, and to Morristown 
in November, 1875. Connection was soon after made to Ogdensburg. It 
remained under the control of the U. & B. R. R. R. until the latter was leased 
to the R. W. & O. 

On April 15, 1886, the Rome, VVatertown, and Ogdensburg Railroad leased 
the lines of the Utica and Black River Railroad, and since that time the 
lines have been under one management, the system being known as the 
Rome, Watertown, and Ogdensburg Railroad Company. The general offices 
of the company are located at Oswego, and the following are its present 
officers : Charles Parsons, president, New York ; Charles Parsons, Jr., 
vice-president. New York ; J. A. Lawyer, secretary and treasurer. New 
York ; R. E. Smiley, assistant secretary, Watertown ; E. S. Bowen, general 
manager, Oswego ; Edwin Parsons, assistant general manager and general 
purchasing agent, New York ; M. B. Sloat, auditor, Oswego ; L. A. Emer- 
son, general traffic manager, New York ; F. W. Parsons, general freight 
agent, Oswego ; Theodore Butterfield, general passenger agent, Oswego ; 
H. T. Frary, paymaster and traveling agent, Oswego; G. H. Haseltine, 
superintendent of motive power and machinery, Oswego; W. W. Curries, 
superintendent transportation, Oswego; W. S. Jones, superintendent middle 
and eastern divisions, Watertown ; H. W. Hammond, assistant superintend- 
ent eastern division, Carthage ; J, H. McEwan, assistant superintendent 
western division, Oswego. 

In 1837 the Trenton and Sackets Harbor Railroad was chartered, but no 
work was ever done. In 1850 the Sackets Harbor and Ellisbnrgh Railroad 
Company was organized, and June 1, 1853, was completed to Pierrepont 
Manor and opened for the regular passage of trains. It was run to connect 
with the R., W. & O. Railroad at the Manor, and with the Ontario and St. 
Lawrence Steamboat Company at the Harbor. The road was abandoned 
in 1862. 

A company called the Sackets Harbor and Saratoga Railroad Company was 
incorporated in April, 1848, for the purpose of building a road from the 
first named point via Watertown, Carthage, and Castorville, and through 
the wilderness, to Saratoga, and eventually to Boston, Mass. No part of the 
road in this county was ever built. 

The Carthage ajid Adirondack Railroad. — The building of this road was 
the consummation of a project conceived by George Gilbert, of Carthage, N.Y. 
as early as 1865. At that time very little lumbering had been done in the 
country now tributary to this road. A tannery had then recently been 
erected at Natural Bridge village, and at Harrisville, Lewis County. The 



INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS. 



large lumber interest at Gouverneur, St. Lawrence County, that has now for 
more than 20 years drawn almost entirely from this section for its supply of 
logs, was then in embryo. Little was then known of the large mineral resour- 
ces of this locality ; yet small quantities of very excellent iron ore had been 
mined, and the sanguine predicted its existence in endless quantities. By 
occasional trips through this section Mr. Gilbert had become acquainted with 
the large resources of the locality in its forests, and the great wealth that might 
be derived therefrom if some adequate mode of transportation could be pro- 
vided. The importance of penetrating this country with a railroad, having 
its starting pomt at Carthage, began to be discussed by him, and while every 
one conceded the desirableness of such an enterprise if it could be accom- 
plished, yet the poverty of the country to be directly benefited was so great 
as to lead most people to view it as a quixotic undertaking. Nevertheless 
the project found some friends who thought it worthwhile to try and see how 
much interest could be developed. 

Acting upon this idea Mr. Gilbert prepared a bill and submitted the same 
to the legislature of 1866, providing for the incorporation of a company 
with power to construct a railroad from Carthage, Jefferson County, N. Y., 
to some point on the Oswegatchie River, at or near Harrisville, in Diana 
Lewis County, and to purchase timber lands in unlimited quantities and en- 
gage in the business of lumbering. This bill was amended by the legislature 
by striking out the provision empowering the company to purchase lands, etc., 
and then passed it. It became a law, but without the element that in the 
judgment of its author made it of any particular value. Nevertheless it 
served the purpose of forming a nucleus which was of some service in work- 
ing up the scheme. In the fall of 1866 very thorough preliminary surveys 
were made between Carthage and Harrisville. Statistics were collected, and 
in the following winter a report showing the feasibility of the route and the 
resources of the country was made and published. This report was very 
generally circulated and attracted much attention. Carthage was then a 
village of nearly 2,000 inhabitants, nearly equal to the number of inhabitants 
in all the remaining country along the line of this proposed road. The prop- 
osition was then to build a railroad about 20 miles in length through a sec- 
tion of country containing no men of large means, and where the business 
necessary to its maintenance would have to be created to a very great extent. 
Nevertheless confidence in the scheme began to increase. In the following 
year the Clifton Company began the construction of a railroad from its mines, 
in the town of Clifton, St. Lawrence County, to De Kalb Junction, on the 
Rome, Watertown, and Ogdensburg Railroad, using wood rails instead of iron. 
This was a new idea, and seemed to be a feasible one for a pioneer road in 
a country where timber was abundant. In the fall of this year preliminary 
surveys were made from Harrisville to a point of intersection with the Clif- 
ton road in the town of Russell, St. Lawrence County, and soon after the 
work of securing pledges for a sufficient amount of stock to organize a com- 



126 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



pany under the general law for the incorporation of railroad companies was 
set about in good earnest, and prosecuted with a zeal that seemed to preclude 
all doubt of success. 

In December following the persons pledging subscriptions for stock in the 
company to be organized met at the hotel in Harrisville and selected a 
board of directors ; but the articles of association then adopted were not 
signed, and the lo per cent, was not paid in until the latter part of June, 
1868. It was provided that the company should be known by the name of 
the Black River and St. Lawrence Railway Company. The length of the 
proposed road was to be 38 miles, and was to extend from the Black River 
at Carthage to the point of intersection above named. The amount of 
capital stock as fixed in the articles of association was $380,000. The 
board of directors selected to serve the first year was composed of George 
Gilbert, Hezekiah Dickerman, Richard Gallagher, Jackson Weaver, Samuel H. 
Beach, Joseph Palmer, William Palmer,William Hunt, Silas Bacon, George M. 
Gleason, Henry Rushton, Lucius Carr, and George Smith. Samuel H. Beach 
was made president ; George Gilbert, vice-president and secretary ; and 
Henry Rushton, treasurer. In the winter of 1868 laws were passed author- 
izing the company to use wood rails instead of iron ; also authorizing the sev- 
eral towns along the route of the proposed road to issue bonds, and subscribe 
for and take stock in this company. In pursuance of the provisions of the 
last named law the town of Wilna subscribed for stock to the amount of 
$50,000; the town of Diana, Lewis County, subscribed for alike amount;, 
and both of these towns paid their subscriptions in full. The town of 
Edwards, in St. Lawrence County, subscribed for stock to the amount of 
$35,000, but paid only a small part of its subscription. The work of build- 
ing this road was let to' Row, Fields & Co., of Brockville, Canada, in the 
winter of 1868-69. 

The work of construction was actually commenced on April 29, 1869, and 
prosecuted by the contractors until about the middle of October of the same 
year, when some difficulty arose between the directors of the company and 
the contractors, resulting in the directors assuming the work of construction 
and the discharge of the contractors. Litigation ensued, but was subse- 
quently settled ; work was suspended during the winter, but resumed in the 
spring and prosecuted in a very moderate way until late in the fall, when 
further operations were stopped for the want of funds. The road was oper- 
ated, so far as completed, for a part of one year, when it was practically 
abandoned, and nothing further of any moment was done with it until the or- 
ganization of the Carthage and Adirondack Railway Company in the spring 
of 1883. For sometime previous to tins Byron D. Benson, of Titusville, Pa., 
had been investigating the extent and character of the deposits of iron ore at 
Jayville, Fine, and other points in St. Lawrence County, the title to which 
had been secured by Joseph Palmer, of Harrisville, to be used in aid of the 
completion of this road, Mr. Benson and his associates became satisfied' 



COUNTY CHARITIES. 12/ 



that these ores were of sufficient value to warrant the construction of a rail- 
road from Carthage to Jayville, and a company was organized for that pur- 
pose, as above stated. The property and franchises of the Black River and 
St. Lawrence Railway Company were transferred to the new organization, 
and the work of construction was commenced and prosecuted for a short 
time, and then suspended until 1886, when the road was completed to Jay- 
ville, a distance of about 29 miles. In the summer of 1887 an extension was 
commenced from Jayville to Little River, in the township of Chaumont, St. 
Lawrence County, which was completed in the summer of 1889. 

Although not as much iron ore has been transported over this road as its 
promoters expected, yet in other respects the widsom of its construction has 
been fully demonstrated, and the shipment of ore will undoubtedly be greatly 
augmented at no distant day. The present company is an outgrowth of the 
former one, and it is evident that neither would have been formed and the 
road not constructed but for the untiring efforts of Mr. Gilbert from the first 
conception of the enterprise until the fall of 1869, subsequently reenforced by 
Mr. Palmer's efforts in directing attention to the mineral resources of the 
country penetrated by it. 

The Rotne and Carthage Railroad is a contemplated line, with terminal 
points at the places named. The company has been incorporated, and J. C. 
Smith, of Rome, is president ; Chester Ray, of Martinsburg, vice-president ; 
A. W. Orton, of Rome, secretary and treasurer. 

The Dexter and Ontario Railroad is also a contemplated line to extend 
from Dexter village to connect with the R., W. & O., about two miles from 
Brownville village. James A. Outterson is president of the company. 

COUNTY CHARITIES. 

Those who from age, infirmity, or otherwise become unable to support 
themselves, and are so unfortunate as to be obliged to rely upon public char- 
ity for support, are provided with a comfortable home on the county poor- 
farm, situated in the town of Pamelia, one mile below Watertown city. The 
first county poor-farm was located in the town of Le Ray. The present 
farm was purchased in 1833, and cost, including buildings erected soon after 
the purchase, $6,123.36. In 1855 a lunatic asylum was built of brick, at a 
cost of $4,811.57. In 1870 the poor-house was remodeled and rebuilt at an 
expense of $13,750. In 1887 other improvements and additions were made, 
and it will now accommodate 150 inmates. The present superintendent of 
the poor-farm is John Washburn. 

The Jefferson County Orphan Asylum has served a most useful purpose 
since it was started as the "Watertown Home" in 1859. It is a brick struct- 
ure, and is pleasantly located on Franklin street, surrounded by a beautiful 
grove. The institution is ably managed, and more than maintains itself. 
A. O. Freeman is superintendent ; Mrs. A. O. Freeman^ matron ; G. W. 



T28 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Xnowlton, secretary and treasurer. At the present time about 60 children 
are cared for here. 

STAPLE PRODUCTS, ASSESSED VALUATION, ETC. 

The soil generally of Jefferson County is of average fertility. The districts 
underlaid by limestone and slate are exceedingly fertile, and particularly 
adapted to dairying and the raising of spring grains. The intervales are also 
remarkably fertile, while the ridges are often naked rock. The soil, over a 
part of the sandstone, is too thin for cultivation, but the barren region is 
comparatively limited. Barley, oats, corn, rye, and peas are staple products. 
For many years, from the first settlement of the territory, manufactures have 
received much attention, and employed a large amount of capital. They 
have been principally carried on along the line of Black River, and are quite 
fully described in the sketches of the towns in which they are located. The 
growing of hay for the great markets has become a chief staple, and we are 
told by a New York dealer that Jefferson County grows the best hay that 
comes to that market. Ship-building and lake commerce form prominent 
pursuits at several points along the lake and St. Lawrence River. 

To give the reader an idea of the business of the county in the early days 
we quote the following from Spajford's Gazetteer of 18 13: — 

" Agreeable to the census of 1810, there are in this county 660 looms; 16 tanneries, 16 dis- 
tilleries, two breweries; eight clothiers, five carding machines, and seven or eight large ash- 
eries, which produce large quantities of pot and pearl ashes, and bring much money into the 
county." 

In the same author's Gazetteer, of 1825, the following for 1820-21 is 
quoted: — 

" Statistics. — * * * Postoffices, 20; persons engaged in agriculture, 8,907; in commerce, 134: 
in manufactures, 1,603; slaves, 5; free blacks, 135; school districts, 165, in which schools are kept 
an average of seven months in 12; public money received in 1821, $3,071.77; No. of children 
between five and 15 years of age, 8,000; No. of ijersons taught in the schools, 8,444; electors, 
7,196; taxable property, f2,483,671; acres of improved land, 122,209; neat cattle, 34,896; 
horses, 6,118; sheep, 59,448; j'ards of full cloth made in the household way in 1821, 54,470; 
yards of flannel, 77,082; yards of linen, cotton, and other thin cloths, 144,758=276,310 yards; 
55 grist-mills; 98 saw-mills ; one oil-mill; 27 fulling-mills; 27 carding machines; four cotton and 
woolen manufactories; four forges; one furnace; 10 trip-hammers, 33 distilleries; 139 ash- 
eries; two paper-mills; and two printing offices." 

From the census report of 1880 we find that Jefferson County, in that 
year, had 6,422 farms, representing an area of 594,899 acres of improved 
land, valued at $26,869,176, including fences, buildings, etc. The value of 
farming implements and machinery was $1,009,347 ; value of live stock, 
$3,468,873 ; cost of building and repairing fences (1879), $86,458 ; cost of 
fertihzers purchased in 1879, $9,214; estimated value of all farm produc- 
tions (sold, consumed, or on hand) for 1879, $5,199,352. 

In 1880 the principal vegetable productions of the county were : Barley, 
393,024 bushels ; buckwheat, 33,556 bushels ; Indian corn, 357,964 bushels ; 



1 



STAPLE PRODUCTS, ASSESSED VALUATION, ETC. 



129 



oats, 1,256,468 bushels; rye, 57,312 bushels; wheat, 189,322 bushels; 
orchard products valued at $86,105 ', hay, 236,060 tons ; hops, 135,955 
pounds; Irish potatoes, 460,881 bushels; tobacco, 1,850 pounds. Of live 
stock in the county there were 17,463 horses, ^5 mules and asses, 427 work- 
ing oxen, 61,900 milch cows, 29,280 other cattle, 15,642 swine, and 18,748 
sheep (exclusive of spring lambs), which produced 90,975 pounds of wool. 
Of dairy products there were 13,261,680 gallons of milk, 4,071,740 pounds 
of butter, and 283,990 pounds of cheese. 



ASSESSED VALUATION — 1< 



Real Estate. Personal. 

Adams .f 1,565.905 .*275,799 

AlexaiKlria 1,216,594 51,750 

Antwerp 1,386,240 93,140 

Brownville 1,619.970 177,620 

Cape Vincent 1.787,900 122.260 

Champion 907.120 108,150 

Clayton 1.440,230 77.500 

EUisburgh 2,054,955 163,910 

Henderson 868,100 77,000 

Hounslield 1,038.695 70,400 

LeRay 1,195,220 97,510 

Lorraine 526,580 19,900 

Lyme 1,3.54,875 71,920 

Orjeans 1,239,645 39,270 



Real Estate. Personal. 

Pamelia *754. 169 $22,419 

Philadelphia 895,460 51,810 

Eodman 813,185 122,800 

Rutland 857,260 82,810 

Theresa 945,090 54,630 

Watertown (town) . . 715,474 61,100 

" City, 1st Ward, 1,098,925 90,720 

" " 2d " 1,126,475 187,295 

" " 3d " 1,475,100 602,856 

" " 4th " 1,398,775 200,751 

Wilna 1,072,090 187,080 

Worth . . 238,090 3,500 

Total .f29,592,122 $3,119,900 



CHEESE.MAKING. 



The following account of the first manufacture of cheese for market in Jef- 
ferson County is extracted from an article written by Mrs. John A. Sherman, 
and read before the Historical Society in April, 1887: — 

" My husband and myself were the pioneers in that now vast industry, having commenced 
making clieese for sale in 1834. The causes that led to our starting the business were so in- 
terwoven with the circumstances of Mr. Sherman's family at that date that a brief history of 
his early struggles may not be inappropriate, and may be of interest to the people of the pres- 
ent day. 

" Alfred Sherman, the father of my husband, died in 1827, five years before our marriage, 
leaving a widow and six children to obtain the necessaries of life, on an unproductive farm of 
90 acres. My husband, who was then 17 years of age, and was living with Morris M. Woodrufl', 
of Watertown, was called home to care for the widowed mother and her children, five younger 
than himself. But little change for the better had taken place in the family at the time of 
our marriage, November 17, 1832. It was arranged that we should take the farm and pay 
off the heirs as they became of age. To Mr. Sherman, with all his energy, it looked like an 
endless task, and he was also discouraged by unforeseen and unexpected misfortune. A large 
tlock of sheep had all died, and also a fine colt, and there was a hundred dollars due Adriel 
Ely that he could see no way of paying. At this point in our severe struggles there came a 
ray of light. A young man and his wife from Herkimer County purchased a farm adjoining 
ours, and as soon as convenient I called and made friends of our new neighbors. I found the 
lady in poor health. She said the farmers of Herkimer County had all got rich from cheese- 
making, but it had broken down all the wives and daughters with hard work. Caring little 
for the hardship I immediately resolved that we should have some cows and make cheese. 
Why could not cheese be made in Jefferson as well as in Herkimer County ? I hastened home 



I30 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



with the inspiration of hope, to mature the plan with my husband, which he readily approved, 
and before sleeping that night he had resolved to loan the money of Mr. Woodruff, and go to 
Canada for the cows. 

" As spring was upon us there was no time to lose, and in three days he was in Canada 
buying cows, and one week from that time we were milking many of them. He had driven 
the cows across the St. Lawrence River, with the snow and water nearly knee-deep, and the 
ice dangerously thin in many places. Foot-sore and weary he reached home late in the even- 
ing, to spend a sleepless night of suffering from his blistered feet. We were soon in readiness 
to make our first clieese, and the Herkimer County lady, as she had promised, was ready to 
teach me. As the process was simple I was, in about three days, an independent cheese- 
maker. Our first cheese was a wonderful one, and weighed 40 pounds. We had never seen so 
large a cheese before. Our little hoop would not hold the curd, and the now Kev. Jedediah 
Winslow, who was then a member of our family, a tall, handsome youth of 16 years, was sent 
in great haste to Dr. Kimball's to borrow a hoop. Mr. Sherman told him to run the horse. 
, " Our admiration knew no bounds. This promise of future prosperity — this first cheese — 
was absolutely on the table, and I had made it, and could make any number more. Little did 
I think then that this was the starting point of a great and important business in Jefi'erson 
County. We had improvised rude and inexpensive implements for present use, that would 
look curious to the dairymen in this day of great inventions and labor-saving machinery. I 
distinctly remember the press, a rough plank, and probably a ton or more of stones thereon. 
It was worked by a lever, lifting it off and onto the cheese by main strength. It was a 
terror to me, when I was sometimes left alone, to iise it. But rude as the implements were 
they served our purpose, but Avere not labor-saving. The making of the cheese was but a 
small part of the labor. Order and cleanliness were absolutely necessary, to maintain which 
required plenty of water, which had to be lilted over the top of a cistern and drawn up from 
the well in the old oaken bucket. There was much discussion at the time as to the propriety 
of making cheese on Sunday; but as we must do that, or nearly waste our milk, we continued 
to make it on Sunday with no compunctions of conscience, and we were as early to church as 
our neighbors, riding in the farm wagon. Sometimes, on great occasions. Grandmother Sher- 
man would come and take us in her carriage. 

" We had commenced this new industry in the early spring, and, there being no one to 
purchase the cheese, had continued its manufacture until our temporary rooms and tables 
were full to overflowing. By the advice of Mr. Crosby, our new friend from Herkimer, Mr. 
Sherman sent it to New York to be sold. It took 21 days by lake and canal to reach there. It 
proved to be good, sold readily, and we soon had returns at six cents a pound, sufficient to 
pay for every cow. But this was not all of our product. At the close of the season we had 15 
beautiful calves, one room full of cheese, several tubs of butter, and plenty of everything 
after the summer's product was sold. We cured the late-made cheese with stove-heat, and 
kept it for spring market. 

" There soon joined us on tlie dairy business such men as Isaac Munson, C. P. Kimball, 
Daniel Sherman, Moses Eames, Franklin Hunt, Clift Fames, David Granger, Z. Larned, Henry 
Hopkins, Gardner Town, Jerod Canfield, and a host of others. But these were our immedi- 
ate friends and neighbors. We had manj- visitors to see and many to learn the art of cheese- 
making, and we all had much to learn from experience, and, as in everything in life, we never 
arrived at a state of perfection. Moses Eames, the following year, made a journey to Herki- 
mer County, to learn the best mode of building for the manufacture and cure of cheese, but 
not approving of the Herkimer buildings, he constructed a building after a plan of his own, 
which was eveiy way convenient, with running water and steam. Franklin Hunt's dairy build- 
ings were the first built in the county. Moses Eames's cheese-house, which but recently sur- 
vived the destructive fire which swept away the old home, was one of the finest in this county, 
and recalls recollections of pleasures past. These two buildings were the first, and are stand- 
ing monuments of enterprise in the great business that spread rapidly over the county, re- 
sulting in prosperity to all classes. 

•'The winter was our season of rest and social gatherings, and the few of us who are left 
well remember the joyous festivities of the farmers of that day. There were no factories for 
many years to lighten our labors, but the butter and cheese was all made in our own homes, 
and with our own hands, and the farmers of the present know little of the hardshiiDS of our 



STAPLE PRODUCTS. I3I 

day and perhaps little of our pleasures. The business was new and exciting, and cemented 
us in the bonds of friendship and interest for each other's prosperity. In a very few years 
prosperous results were very perceptible in the farmers of Jefferson County. They could ride 
in tine carriages, dress in rich clothing, furnish their homes pleasantly, send their children to 
the High school, have an instrument of music for their daughters, and good teachers to in- 
struct them. Their daughters were also required to help do the work, and were taught that 
good housekeeping was an accomplishment essential to their educatiou, and we could trust 
them to make good bread and coffee, prepare a farmer's boiled dinner, or anything required 
for the table. The business was very prosperous to us, and Mr. Sherman added farm to farm, 
until we had nearly 400 acres of land, and had also increased the number of cows to, I think, 
about 50—20 being our first number. The large farm and dairy required many laborers, who 
had constant employment, and occupied the different houses belonging to the farm, — three in 
number, besides our own home, — to one of which our dairy was removed, and ever after the 
cheese was made by the laborers, until the dear old home passed into other hands, and we to 
other scenes far less congenial than our quiet rural life." . 

FROM I 86 I TO 1890.* 

The cooperative cheese factory system was first started in Jefferson County 
in 1861. David Hamlin, of Watertown, was the first in this county to 
make the milk of other dairies into cheese. He charged from $1.75 to $2.00 
for every 100 pounds of milk that he manufactured into cheese. They were 
not cheddared as now, and not uniform in size, weighing all the way from 
100 to 300 pounds each. They were sold at anywhere from 20 to 25 cents per 
pound. From 186 1 to 1879 there was a rapid growth in the number of new 
factories erected, and a vast change in the method of its manufacture. At 
present there are 98 factories in Jefferson County, which produce 150,000 
cheese annually, equal to 9,000,000 pounds. Manufacturers do not get on 
an average $1.05 for every 100 pounds of milk manufactured into cheese. 
Most all of these cheese are cheddared, and the average weight is just 60 
pounds each. Three-fourths of the county's cheese is exported to foreign 
countries. The average price for the past 10 years has been just $0.092343, 
nearly 9J cents per pound. 

Since 1888 very little Limburger cheese has been manufactured in Jeffer- 
son County. The cheese factories have taken the place of butter factories 
and creameries, and there are only four in active operation during the sum- 
mer months. 

The cheese of this county are sold principally on the board of trade, which 
was organized in 1874, and known as the " Watertown Board of Trade and 
Jefferson County Dairymen's Association.*' Of the 150,000 cheese manu- 
factured in this county annually, 50,000 of them are sold directly upon this 
board, and the balance at the weekly ruling, average or extreme prices paid 
for the direct purchases. This board holds weekly sales days, beginning the 
first Saturday in May, and continuing until the season's product is all sold, 
when it adjourns to the following May. This organization is sustained by 
the annual dues of factories represented, which was formerly $3 each per 

* Furnished by A. W. Munk, of Watertown. 



132 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



annum, but in 1889 was reduced to $2. Buyers doing business on the board' 
pay the same as is charged the factories. At the annual meeting of the fac- 
tories a patron is chosen to represent the factory at the board, and sell the 
cheese during the season. This board has proved quite a boon to dairymen, 
as it brings buyers together in competition, and often it is the case that prices 
paid in Watertown are relatively higher than those ruling in New York. 

The Jefferson County Butter and Cheese makers' Association was organ- 
ized February 2, 1889. According to article 2 of its constitution the objects 
of this society are to "further promote the interests of the dairymen of Jef- 
ferson County; to advance the standard of their goods; to enforce all laws 
which are now or may hereafter be enacted in their interest ; and by thorough 
organization be prepared by petition or otherwise to further promote the wel- 
fare of this association and the interests of the dairymen at large." 

The officers of the society for 1889 were: E. A. Ayers, of Rice's, presi- 
dent ; D. A. Goodrich, of South Champion, James Purcell, of Sterlingville, 
Anson Miller, of Rodman, vice-presidents ; A. W. Munk, of Watertown, 
secretary; R. H. Bent, of Antwerp, treasurer. 

JEFFERSON COUNTY GRANGE.* 

Previous to 1873 there had been in this county several farmers' clubs, but 
no attempt had ever been made to organize the farmers into one complete 
organization for purposes of protection and cooperation. The town of Ellis- 
burgh had long been noted for the character of its inhabitants. Its early set- 
tlers were mainly from New England, bringing with them habits of thrift and 
frugality. For many years successful township fairs were held in Belleville, 
and a well-attended farmers' club was one of the means whereby the settlers 
were kept posted and in advance of their brethern in other parts of the 
county. It is not strange, then, that when the Patrons of Husbandry, com- 
monly called " The Grange," were beginning to attract attention, that these' 
hardy and wide-awake sons of toil should be the first to investigate its merits. 
At a meeting of the Farmers' Club, held at the residence of H. W. Milliard, 
June 27, 1873, the first Grange in the county, and the fifth in the state, was 
organized, with 30 charter members. Willia?n H. H. Ellsworth was elected 
master, and V. C. Warriner, secretary. A dispensation was granted by the 
National Grange, dated July 22, followed by the charter, dated January 26, 
1874. Thus was set in motion in this county what was destined to be the 
greatest and most complete organization of the farming class the world has 
ever seen. Other towns were quick to begin work in a like manner, and July 
5, at the meeting of the Farmers' Club at Watertown, it was voted to start 
a Grange at the next meeting, which was held July 12, when Watertown 
Grange, No. 7, was started, with 25 charter members, A. H. Hall being its first 
master, and Curtis Terry, secretary. 

* By F. E. Wilson. 



JEFFERSON COUNTY GRANGE. 1 33 

Granges were now rapidly organized in all parts of the county, and it seemed 
as though they would carry everything before them; but with the increased 
membership (and there had not been at this time that close scrutiny as to who 
should be admitted that came with later years) many of the Granges were 
made up of characters something like we used to, in the school days, count 
off buttons on the boys' vests, 

" Rich-man, poor-man, beggar-man, thief, 
Doctor, lawyer, merchant, chief," 

and a few farmers. Many of the broken-down politicians and sore-heads 
were quick to avail themselves of an opportunity to join the Grange, with the 
hope and expectation that in the near future a strong political party would 
grow out of it. This brought into the organization an element that was 
foreign and antagonistic to all its aims and objects ; and as the farmers here- 
tofore had had but limited experience in meetings of this kind, they had but 
little chance to carry cut, compared to the wily politicians, what they would 
like to have accomplished, and what the Grange was originally intended for. 

In the fall of 1874 A. C. Middleton was nominated for state senator 
by the Grangers of Lewis and Jefferson counties, and although the district 
was largely Republican, with the assistance of the Democrats, who made no 
nomination, he was elected by a majority of more than 800. His election so 
elated many of the members that before another election time had come the 
aspirants for office was so numerous that jealousies arose in different locali- 
ties, which caused much dissension in the different Granges. As the discus- 
sion of politics in the meetings was strictly prohibited by the constitution of 
the Grange, those who cared more for the good of the order than the spoils 
of office demanded that all matters of this kind be discontinued in the Grange 
meetings. The politicians, quick to see that only through united strength 
could they achieve success, began to drop out, and in a year or so the mem- 
bership had greatly diminished. Many of the Granges were allowed to die 
out, and others barely existed. 

Not until 1885 did there seem to be much change in the standing of the 
order. The fire insurance, which had been in operation for several years, the 
benefits of which were confined to members in good standing, had so far 
been the means of saving a large amount of money to its patrons. Other 
insurance companies having raised their rates on farm property, and the con- 
tinual depression of farm products, caused many of the leading farmers to look 
around for some way in which they might lessen their expenses. At this time 
the Grange was the only avenue. The public press, instead of ridiculing the 
society as formerly, published extensive articles calling the attention of the 
farmers to the advantages to be derived from a thorough organization. This 
caused a healthy revival in its favor, and many new members were received. 

At the session of Pomona Grange, held in Belleville in June, 1889, a com- 
mittee was appointed to ascertain the advisability of holding a farmers' pic- 

9» 



134 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



nic in August. After quite an animated discussion, as to what the object 
was in calling such a meeting, it was said to be partly for the purpose of get- 
ting together, comparing ideas, and, if thought best, to put in nomination a 
candidate for member of Assembly in the First District, and perhaps a full 
county ticket to be composed of farmers. This was strongly opposed by 
many who favored only making a nomination for member. Before the meet- 
ing closed, however, it was voted to hold the picnic and convention at Hen- 
derson Harbor, August 8 and 9. No vote was taken as to what should be 
done at the picnic, but the impression went forth and gained rapidly that 
nominations would be made, and when the time arrived it was estimated that 
full 3,000 were in attendance. On the second day of this meeting delegates 
were appointed from the different towns in the First Assembly District, and 
called to meet in the village of Adams, August 14, to put in nomination a 
■candidate for member from that district. The delegates met and nominated 
L. D. Olney, of Rutland, and adopted resolutions settmg forth their wants 
and grievances. Later in the canvass Mr. Olney resigned on account of 
business relations, and Floyd C. Overton was nominated in his stead. The 
nomination of the Grangers was indorsed by the Democrats, but the Repub- 
lican majority of i,6co in the district could not be overcome, and Mr. Over- 
ton was defeated by a majority of 172. The result of this so encouraged the 
farmers that in a few weeks five new Granges were started, and the old ones 
nearly doubled in membership. 

The State Grange held its 17th annual session in Watertown, February 4 to 
7, inclusive, the first ever held in the northern part of the state, and was said to 
have been the largest, in point of numbers in attendance, in its history. 

There are now, in the county, about 26 Granges, with a membership of 
more than 1,600. Of these, " Watertown," " Star/' " Indian River," " South 
Rutland," and " Pamelia " Granges own buildings, while the others rent. 

Union Grange, No. 5, of Belleville, has 138 members ; A. A. Scott, W. M.; 
George E. Bull, secretary, 

Watertonui Grange, No. 7, has 365 members; W. H. Vary, W. M. ; 
F. E. Wilson, secretary. 

Star Grange, of Hounsfield, 73 members \ L. F. Allen, W. M.; A. M. Marsh, 
secretary. 

Mannsville Grange, No. 16, A. P. Williams, W. M.; W. A. Schell, secre- 
tary. 

Champion Grange, No. 18, S. Loomis, W. M.; S. J. Hubbard, secretary. 

Indian River Grange, No. 19, of Antwerp, 100 members ; Henry Mason, 
W. M.; Ezra S. Beaman, secretary. 

South Rutland Grange, No. 53, 60 members; C. H. Cramer, W. M.; 
Mrs. Agnes Johnson, secretary. 

Pamelia Grange, No. 68, 130 members; S. N. Gould, W. M.; N. Bur- 
gess, secretary. 



MANUFACTURES. 



135 



Philadelphia Grange, No. 114, 60 members ; William Whiting, W. M.; 
W. G. Mosher, secretary. 

Lorraine Grange, No. 11/, 40 members; L. B. Bishop, W. M.; L. S. Pit- 
kin, secretary. 

Three Mile Bay Grange, No. 126, 75 members ; J. W. Taft, W. M.; Charles 
Kinsley, secretary. 

Adams Grange, No. 391, 16 members ; A. W. Bartlett, W. M.; J. A. Bemis, 
secretary. 

St. Lmurence Grange, No. 390, 40 members ; D. S. Rees, W. M.; W. D. 
Phillips, secretary. 

Natural Bridge Grange, No. 497, 122 members; F. W. Palmer, W. M.; 
B. B. Smith, secretary. 

Depaiiville Grange, No. 59, 60 members ; E. J. Seeber, W. M., Alonzo 
Cheever, secretary. 

Adams Center Grange, No. 590, 60 members ; M. E. Dealing, W. M.; 
A. M. Thomas, secretary. 

Thousand Island Grange, No. 593, on Wells Island. 22 members; Hiram 
Moore, W. M ; O. T. Greene, secretary. 

Cape Vincent Grange, No. 599, 40 members ; John Armstrong, W. M.; 
William S. Armstrong, secretary. 

Flessis Grange, organized January 29, 1890, has 30 members; D. Snell, 
W. M ; William J. Tilley, secretary. 

Texas Grange, No. 532, of Wilna, E. N. Reynolds, W. M.; P. H. Castle, 
secretary. 

Great Bend Grange was organized in March, 1890; A. J. Shew, W. M.; 
A. J. Wadsworth, secretary. 

Kirkland Grange, of Redwood, was organized in May, 1S90, with 41 
charter members ; O. M. Norton, \V. M.; W. H. Marshall, secretary. 

A Grange was organized in Theresa village in March, 1889, with 40 charter 
members; I. C. Cooper, \V. M.; C. B. Still, secretary. 

The future prospects of the Granges are very flittering, and it is thought 
that in a short time they will embrace in their membership 75 per cent, of 
the farmers of the county. 

MANUFACTURES. 

The manufacturing interests of Jefiferson County have been generally writ- 
ten up in the sketches of the towns and Watertown city, in which the many 
important industries of this character are located. In addition to these we 
are fortunate in being able to give the following history of the paper-mills of 
this county, prepared by John C. Knowlton, of Watertown : — 

SKETCH OF PAPER MANUFACTURE. 

The beginnings of the papermaking industry in Jefferson County are to be 
credited to Gurdon Caswell, who was born in Norwich, Conn., in 1783. He 



136 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



was a tailor by trade, and in 1804 came to Westmoreland, Oneida County. 
At Walesville, Oneida County, about nine miles west from Utica, was, and 
still is, a paper-mill on Oriskany Creek, which, in 1804, was owned by Nathan- 
iel Loomis and his son Erastus. Now Nathaniel had not only a son, but 
also a daughter, Mary, and the young tailor from Connecticut forthwith fell 
in love with and married her, and jomed his fortunes with his father in-law in 
the paper-mill. He must have found papermaking more attractive than the 
tailor's bench, for, in 1808, when the Black River country was the Mecca for 
so many pilgrims from the Mohawk region, Gurdon Caswell came to Water- 
town and built the first paper mill on the south bank of the river opposite 
Beebee's Island, above Cowan's grist mill. This site was about where the 
easterly end of Knowlton Brothers' wood pulp-mill now stands, and may have 
been partly in Mill street, for there was no street or bridge there in 1808. 
The building was a two-story frame structure, 35x50 feet, but a considerable 
part of the second floor was used for a wool-carding machine. The machin- 
ery in this mill consisted of a small rag engine, or Hollander, carrying about 
150 pounds of rags ; two or three potash kettles set rn a brick arch, for boil- 
ing the rags and preparing the sizing ; one vat for making the paper, sheet by 
sheet ; and a rude standing press to squeeze the water out of the pac/c, as the 
pile of alternate felts and wet sheets was called. After pressing the sheets 
were taken from the pack and hung on poles to dry, and, if intended for 
writing purposes, were afterward dipped in sizing, a few sheets at a lime, and 
dried again. There was no steam used in any part of this process ; no 
chlorine for bleaching; no calendering, the substitute for the latter being 
pressing between boards. 

Such a mill costing from $3,000 to $5,000 would employ four or five men 
and as many women, and was capable of turning out r5o pounds of paper 
per day; but there was little of the pushing that to-day crowds every ma- 
chine to its utmost capacity. Rags were scarce, the demand for paper limited, 
and the men had an uncomfortable habit of going on prolonged drunken 
sprees, when all work must come to a stop. Caswell called the mill "The 
Pioneer Mill." William Thornton and Gardner White were interested with 
him in building it. 

It continued to make paper till 1833, when Knowlton & Rice, who had 
bought the mill in 1824, sold the lot and moved the building to their new 
premises, a few rods further up stream. The old building, as removed, still 
stands on Factory street, in front of Knowlton Brothers' mill, and is used by 
them for a storehouse. Caswell's family remained in Oneida County till 
1814, when he bought a farm on State street, know later as the Emerson prop- 
erty, and removed them to Watertown. In 18 19 he built his second mill 
on Factory Square, between N. Wiley's machine shop and Fairbanks's tan- 
nery, a part of the property now owned by the H. H. Babcock Co. This 
mill was soon sold to his brother, Henry Caswell, and brother in law, Erastus 
Loomis, and in 1824 was bought by Knowlton & Rice, who co: tinued to use 



MANUFACTURES. 1 37 



it till February 7, 1 833, when it was burned with Fairbanks's tannery and sev- 
eral other buildings. 

In 1823 Caswell, in company with Ralph Clapp and William K. Asherd, built 
his third mill on Sewall's Island, occupying part of the premises now owned 
by the Bagley & Sewall Co. This mill was torn down about 1830. Gurdon 
Caswell lemoved to Clayton, Jefferson County, in 1832, and died there in 
1862, aged 78 years. 

In 1824 George W. Knowlton and Clark Rice, then living at Brattleboro, 
Vt., bought of Joseph Kessenden, of Brattleboro, the first two mills built by 
Caswell for $7,000. For the next 30 years, till 1854, Knowlton & Rice were, 
with unimportant exceptions, the only paper manufacturers in Jefferson 
County. In 1833 they abandoned both the old mills, and built on the site 
now occupied by the easterly half of Knowlton Brothers' mill a new mill, 
with two rag engines and the first machinery for making a continuous sheet 
of paper (36-inch cylinder). At first the wet web of paper was wound on a 
reel, cut open with a knife, and dried on poles as before; but copper dryers, 
calenders, and a cutter were added, and the mill ran successfully until 1848, 
when it was burned on March 21, in a great fire which swept several manu- 
factories from the south shore of Black River, opposite Beebee's Island. It 
was immediately replaced by a brick mill having three rag engines and im- 
proved machinery. The capacity of this mill was 600 pounds to 700 pounds 
per day. This mill continued to run till 1869, when it was practically rebuilt 
by Knowlton Brothers and equipped with modern machinery. 

In 1854 Knowlton & Rice retired from active business and sold the mill 
to Brown & Chamberlin, of Dalton, Mass., though either Mr. Knowlton or 
Mr. Rice retained an interest in the business most of the time till 1861, when 
Mr. Knowlton 's sons, John C. and George \V., Jr., bought the mill, and un- 
der the name of KnoA.lton Brothers still continue the business, having added 
adjacent j^remises and additional buildings as their business increased. 

Up to 1854 most paper-mills had made a great variety of pipers, partly to 
use up all kinds of stock collected and partly to supply the local demand for 
different kinds of paper. Wrapping paptr, news paper, paper for school 
books and blank books, ruled foolscap, and letter papers were all turned out 
of the same mill with the same machinery, the main difference being in the 
quality of the rags used, for all the stock was rags in those days. But after 
the completion of railroads, and the greatly increased facilities for the ex- 
change of goods with remoter parts of the country, it was found to be more 
economical for each mill to have its specialty and confine itself to one line of 
goods. Thus the Brown & Chamberlin mill — subsequently operated by 
Chamberlin. Farwell & Co. and Knowlton Brothers — was about this time 
devoted entirely to the making of writing papers, and so continued till 1873, 
when its product was changed to colored papers. 

In 1854 I. Remington & Sons, then operating a mill at FayetteviUe, N. Y., 
eased the long-idle Juhelville cotton-mill from P. O'Dougherty, and fitted 



138 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



it up for papermaking, with four rag engines and an 84-inch Fourdrinier 
machine. The mill was run entirely on news paper. It had a capacity of 
one ton per day and was, in those days, considered a large mill. The firm 
was composed of Illustrious Remington and his two sons, Hiram and Al- 
fred D. A. D. Remington removed to Watertown, and to his energy, busi- 
ness ability, and mechanical skill much of the development of the paper- 
making industry in this section is due. In 1863 he became sole proprietor 
of the mill, and in 1865 organized the Remington Paper Co., now operating 
one of the most extensive plants in the country. On the expiration of the 
O'Dougherty lease, in 1867, the mill was removed to Sewall's Island, and in 
1869 the first wood pulp machinery was introduced. From that time there 
has been an almost constant increase of facilities and capacity until now the 
Remington Paper Co. operates two large paper mills, three wood pulp-mills, 
and one sulphite fibre-mill, the daily output of paper being 30 tons, all made 
from spruce logs on its own premises, no rags or other fibre being used. 

In 1862 the mill now owned by the Watertown Paper Co. was built by 
A. D. Remington, at the island end of the upper dam, crossing the south 
channel at Sewall's Island. This mill was for many years operated by Hiram 
Remington and Charles R. Remington, a third son of I. Remington. Since 
1881 it has been owned by H. Remington & Son. 

The mill now owned by the Taggart Bros. Co., on the lower dam in Wa- 
tertown, was formerly a distillery and flouring-mill, built by William H. 
Angel. The buildings were purchased by West, Palmer & Taggart in 1866, 
and paper machinery put in the western part of the buildings. Subsequently 
all the buildings were utilized for papermaking, part of the product being 
paper made from manilla rope, which is made into flour sacks on the prem- 
ises. B. B. Taggart and W. W. Taggart have been identified with this en- 
terprise from the first, and are now largely interested in the Taggarts Paper 
Co., owning a fine new mill at Felt's Mills. 

Charles R. Remington sold his interest in the Watertown Paper Co's 
mill in 1881, and in company with his son Charles H. built a mill three 
miles below Watertown, at Wood's Falls. This mill has a magnificent power, 
3.000 to 4,000 h. p., and is equalled only by the Ontario Paper Co's power 
just below it. C. R. Remington & Son use most of this power in their ex- 
tensive wood pulp mills. 

After the completion of the Sackets Harbor Canal a hand mill was built 
there about 1836, by Elisha Camp, and was burned on May 23, 1838. 

The Great Bend Paper Co's mill, built by George Clark in 1868, was 
at first intended for a straw board-mill, but machinery was soon put in for 
making hanging paper. After Mr. Clark's death (1887) the mill was pur- 
chased by F. A. Fletcher, of Watertown (1888), who associated with himself 
E. H. Thompson, also of Watertown, and made extensive additions to it, 
continuing to operate it under the name of Great Bend Paper Co. 



MANUFACTURES. 



139 



The manufacture of straw boards was begun in Brownville in 1880, by 
Haight & Lane Bros. This mill later developed into the paper-mill of the 
Black River Paper Co., now known as Globe Paper Co. 

The development of the paper industry since 1887 has been so rapid that 
the details must be looked for under the accounts of the several towns. The 
table appended gives a full statement of all mills now in operation in the 
county, with the full daily capacity (not average product) of each, and dates 
of commencement of the business, and also date of organization of present 
company or firm. The 13 companies operate 14 mills, with 19 Fourdrinier 
and two cylinder machines, and have a daily capacity of 140 tons. 



Knowlton Brothers 

a Remington Paper Co 

Taggart Bros. Co 

Watertown Paper Co 

h C. E. Piemington & Son 

b Ontario Paper Co 

c Taggarts Paper Co 

Globe Paper Co 

Outterson Paper Co , 

Brownville Box and Paper Co 

Frontenac Paper Co 

St. Lawrence Paper Co 

Great Bend Paper Co , 










S3 






Watertown. 


1808 


" 


1854 


" 


1866 


" 


1862 


" 


1882 


" 


1888 


" 


1889 


Brownville. 


1880 


" 


1887 


>< 


1888 


Dexter. 


1889 


" 


1889 


Great Bend. 


1868 



a Two mills. 

h Mill in town of Brownville. 

e Mill at Felfs Mills. 



o a 

a '=* 



^ ' .s " 



p4 



861 
865 

887 
864 

882 



887 






°i 



10,000 ■■ Colored 

60,000 I News 

12,000 ! News and Manilla 

26,000 : News 

18,000 I News 

40,000 I News 

36,000 News 

14,000 Manilla 
8,000 I News and Colored 

8,000 ! News 

20,000 I News, etc. 

20,000 j News 
8,000 I Hanging 

280,000 



IVood pulp. — When the Voelter process for grinding wood for paper pulp 
was introduced into this country it was at once adopted by the Remington 
Paper Co., who started their first wood pulp-mill in 1869. 

Owing to our abundant water-power, and our proximity to forests of suit- 
able timber, there has been, in recent years, a rapid increase in the produc- 
tion of this pulp, which is now essential for the making of news paper. 

The table below gives the names of the mills now in operation. Most of 
these, it will be seen, belong to the papermakers, and produce pulp for 
their own consumption. A limited part of the product is shipped to mills 
out of the county. The date given is either organization of the company, 
or, in case of some of the older mills, the date when they began to make 
wood pulp. 



I40 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



a Remington Paper Co Watertown. 

h C. R. Remington & Son i '" 

c H. Remington & Son Pulp and Paper Co " 

Taggart Bros. Co " 

Knowlton Brothers " 

h Ontai-io Paper Co " 

d Taggarts Paper Co ' " 

Ontterson Paper Co Brownville. 

Globe Paper Co " 

Brownville Box and Paper Co 

St. Lawrence Paper Co 

Leonard, Gilmore & Co 

Everitt, Jones & Hunter 

H. Spicer & Sons 

M. R. Diefendorf 

Great Bend Paper Co 

Black River Wood Pnlp Co 

Empire Wood Pulp Co 

Jefferson Paper Co 



Dexter. 



Carthage. 



Great Bend. 
Black River. 



1869 

1882 
1887 
1872 
1884 
1888 
1889 
1887 
1888 
1888 
1888 



1888 
1888 
1888 



1888 
1887 



50,000 

24.000 

12.000 

6,000 

3,000 

25,000 

24.000 

C.OOO 

4,000 

5.000 

10,000 

5.000 

5,000 

5.000 

5.000 

6,000 

6,000 

9.000 

24.000 



234,000 



a Three mills — the largest one in tow-n of Pamelia, below county house. 
I) Mills in town of Brownville. 
c Mills at Black River. 
d Mills at Felt's Mills. 

Sulphite fibre.— ^■^o large mills for the production of this new and im- 
portant addition to our resources for paper stock have recently been com- 
pleted. This fibre, made from wood, is much more costly than the ground 
wood pulp, but in strength and color can be made to equal the best rag 
stock, and is used by all the mills to take the place of rags. 

Dexter Sulphite Pulp and Paper Co., Dexter, i888, daily capacity, 20 
tons; Remington Paper Co., Watertown, 1889, daily capacity, 15 tons. 

WAR OF 1812. 



For 30 years after the independence of the colonies was acknowledged by 
the mother country peace brooded over all the land, and the free American 
states had rapidly advanced in prosperity. The troubles which preceded the 
declaration of war in 18 12 are familiar to all. England, seeming to forget 
that her American offspring had arrived at maturity and was able to protect 
its own institutions, and looking upon herself as mistress of the ocean, dur- 
ing her wars with Napoleon, utterly disregarded the rights of the United 
States as a neutral nation. Her cruisers would stop and search American 
vessels and seize such able-bodied seamen as were needed, on the pretext 
that they were British subjects. An American frigate, not in condition to 
resist, having been subjected to this indignity almost within sight of an 
American port, after receiving several broadsides for denying the right of 
such search, the President issued a proclamation ordering all British ships of 
war to quit the waters of the United States. Congress also laid an embargo 
on American vio'f.els, detaining them at home, but afterwards substituted a 
non-intercourse act, prohibiting tradf^ with Great Britain. Notwithstanding 
all this, Engl .nd i)ersisted in her offensive course. All hopes of obtaining 



PATRIOT WAR WAR FOR THE UNION. I4I 

concessions on the in)pressment question from her were at length abandoned. 
George III., who was still on the throne, had become insane, and the men 
who managed afifairs were as short-sighted as his advisers had been 40 years 
before, whose folly had provoked the Revolution. Longer submission to 
England's arrogant and tyranical treatment was deemed unworihy of a free 
nation, and war was therefore formally declared June 18, 1812. 

Jefferson County early became the theater of active military and naval 
operations. Sackets Harbor was then the most important point on Lake 
Ontario. It was made the headquarters of the northern division of the 
American fleet, and here were fitted out numerous important expeditions 
against the British in Canada. The main incidents of this war, as connected 
with this territory, are generally given in the " Gazetteer of Towns," follow- 
ing the County Chapter. It was the intention of the publisher of this work 
to give a detailed account, under this heading, of all the military and naval 
operations originating and transpiring on the frontier of Jefferson County • 
but the materials at hand, and not previously published, regarding other 
matters of importance, have taken so much space that we deem it advisable 
to curtail this subject here, and refer the reader, for a full account, to 
Hough's History of Jefferson County, published in 1854, and also to Everts's 
History of 187 8. 

PATRIOT WAR. 

Many of the exciting incidents of the Patriot War, 1837-40, are also given 
in the "Gazetteer of Towns.'' For the reasons mentioned above we will 
omit further mention of the subject here, and respectfully refer the reader to 
the histories previously named, in which will be found detailed and interest- 
ing accounts of this foolish and abortive attempt to revolutionize the 
Canadas. 

WAR FOR THE UNION. 

For nearly half a century after the War of 181 2 the angel Peace gave her 
sweetest smiles to the industrious and patriotic inhabitants of the Empire 
state. No affairs of the nation called them from their peaceful avocations, 
and nothing disturbed the tranquil serenity of their busy lives. The sun 
rose each day and smiled on a happy, prosperous, and contented people ; but 
alas ! on the morning of April 21, 1861, it awakened no answering smile in 
their hearts, which were touched with the fire of patriotism and burned with 
martial ardor. The dreams of peace were forgotten ; naught was remem- 
bered but the insulted flag^ — the flag purchased by the blood of their fathers, 
— to which they owed their liberties, homes, and the plenty that surrounded 
them. 

Side by side with her sister states New York endured the weary marches 
and bore the brunt of battles, and side by side their sons sleep the long 



142 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



sleep — some 'neath the sun-kissed plains of the willful South, and some 
rocked in the bosom of the broad Atlantic, "held in the hollow of His hand." 
Others have been borne to rest among their kindred by sympathizing friends, 
who, year by year, to muffled drum-beat, wend their way to their consecrated 
tombs to deck their graves with beautiful spring flowers — a national tribute 
to the gallant dead. Jefferson County gave liberally of her treasure, and 
quite 5, GOO of her sons went forth to battle for the preservation of the na- 
tion's unity, and to free our country from the curse of slavery, so long a foul 
blot upon her fair fame. From the beginning of the war until the close of 
1864 the county had paid, according to the report of the Bureau for 1865, 
bounties to the amount of $333,475.16. 

Following is a brief account of the regiments in which residents of Jeffer- 
son County served, taken from Everts's History of Jefferson County. In part 
II. of this work, in the general directory, will be found the individual record 
of many t)f the soldiers of the war now living in the county. Space will not 
permit of a complete and separate roster of all:— 

TWENTY-FOURTH INFANTRY, 

" Company K of this regiment was organized at Ellisburgh, by Andrew J. Barney, who- 
became its captain. The regiment was organized and numbered by the State Military Board, 
May 16, 1861, and on .July 2 it was mustered into tlie service of the United States, leaving 
Elmira the same day, fully armed and equipped, and proceeding via Harrisburg and Balti- 
more to Washington, where it arrived July 3, and camped on Meridian Hill till July 21, at 
which date it received long Enfield rifled muskets in exchange for the percussion muskets 
with which it had left New York state. During the winter of 1861-62 the regiment was en- 
camped on Upton's Hill. After being bi'igaded differently several times it was, in March, 
1862, assigned to the 1st Brigade, 1st Division, 1st Corps, and in September, 1862, the brigade 
was known as the ' Iron Brigade,' commanded by General Hatch and Colonel Sullivan. Col. 
Phelps, of the 22d Regiment, took command of the brigade September 14, and continued in 
that position until its dissolution by reason of the expiration of the terms of service of the 
22d, 24th, and 30th regiments. 

" After various minor engagements a sharp skii'mish was had in May. 1862, called the bat- 
tle of Falmouth. August 10 they left Falmouth for Cedar Mountain (sometimes called Slaugh- 
ter Mountain), where they stayed four days under artillery fire, the regiment losing one man 
killed in Company D. On August 28 they were under fire at Groveton, but were not engaged. 
On the 30th thej' were sharply engaged at Bull Eun for about an hour and 20 minutes, 
losing several men. Between four and five o'clock on Sunday evening, September 14, 1862, 
they went into the fight at South Mountain, Md., to which point they had been moved ma 
Washington, Eockville, New Market, and Frederick City. After several times changing posi- 
tion, and constantly skirmishing, they forded Antietam Creek on the morning of the 16th and 
moved to the right, abreast of the celebrated cornfield. On the morning of the 17th they 
became hotly engaged, and lost several men, among them Captain J. D. O'Brien, of Company 
A, and Ensign John S. McNair. The regiment next participated in General Burnside's unfort- 
unate Fredericksburg battle, December 13, 1862. In the battle of ChancellorsviUe they were 
also engaged, and about the middle of May, succeeding that engagement, were ordered home, 
and miistered out at Oswego at the expiration of their term of service — two years." 

THIRTY- FIFTH INFANTRY. 

" This organization, known as the ' Jefferson County Regiment,' was organized at Elmira, 
June 3, 1861. The following companies were raised in Jefferson County: — 

" Company A, recruited at Watertown; Capt. Stephen L. Potter; accepted May 9; mustered 
into service at Elmira, July 9, 1861. 



WAR FOR THE UNION. 1 43 



" Company C, Theresa: Capt. George W. Flower; accepted May 15; mustered in at Elmira, 
July 9. 

" Oon\pany E, Watertowii; Capt. John Lacy; recruiting commenced April 15, and ended 
June 11; accepted May 9; mustered in at Elmira, July 10. 

'• Company G, Adams; Capt. Sidney J. Mendal; accepted May 7; mustered in at Elmira, 
.July 10. 

" Coi))pnny I, Kedwood; Capt. Edgar B. Spalsbury; accepted May 20; mustered in at 
Elmira. July 9. 

" Co?n/*a?iy it, Brownville; Capt. Newton B. Lord; acceptedMay 9; mustered in at Elmira, 
July 10. 

" At a meeting of the State Military Board, held May 24, it was, on motion of Lieut. -Gov. 
Campbell, 

" 'Resolved, That the companies commanded by the following named captains, viz. : Capts. 
Lacy, Lord, Potter, Mendell, Angle, Flower, Spalsbury, Todd, Nutting ( Co. D ), and Elwell, be 
organized into a regiment, to be numbered No. 35, and an election for Held officers ordered to 
be held therein.' 

'• Jnne 11 the election of William C. Brown as colonel, Stephen L. Potter as lieutenant- 
colonel, and Newton B. Lord as major, was confirmed, and on the 10th of July the field and 
staff were mustei-ed into the sei-vice of the United States for the term of two years from June 
11, 1861. Flags were presented to the companies as follows: Co. A, by citizens of Watertown; 
Co. E, ditto; Co. K, by citizens of Brownville; and Co. C, by citizens of Theresa. The first 
regimental flag was obtained by subscription among the officers. Subsequently the regiment 
was presented with colors by Hon. A. W. Clark. 

" July 11, 1861. the 35th left Elmira for the seat of war, arriving at Washington on the 
13tb, and encamping on Meridian Hill. It was finally brigaded with the 21st, 23d, and 80th 
(20th militia) N. Y. Vols., the brigade being known as the First Brigade, First Division, First 
Ai-my Corps. 

" The regiment was commanded from June 8 until August 2, 1861, by Col. William C. 
Brown; from August, 1861, to February 10, 1863, by Col. Newton B. Lord; and from February 
10 to June 5, 1863, by Col. John G. Todd. 

" Soon after the arrival of the regiment in Virginia it furnished details to work under 
Lieut. -Col. Alexander, U. S. engineers, in forming abattis. Col. Alexander placed the work in 
charge of Col. Lord, and the regiment felled timber from the forests surrounding the camp, 
and formed abattis several miles in length and 400 feet in width. After this it worked on the 
lunette forts near the Arlington Hotise, and built one seven-gun lunette fort. The forts upon 
which the regiment performed most of its labors were afterwards named Forts Tillinghast and 
Craig. For five and a half months after this the regiment was kept on picket duty, losing in 
the entire time but one man wounded and none killed. It captured two lieutenants and 23 
men, and killed three men. 

"In January, 1862, the muskets supplied the regiment by the state were exchanged for 
Austrian rifles, calibre 54. From March until August the 35th participated in a series of weary 
marches and occasional skirmishes, and became greatly depleted by disease. At Rappahan- 
nock Station, August 30, it was a support for Battery L, of the First New York Artillery, 
which was sharply engaged. At the battle of Warrenton Springs it was exposed to a fire of 
artillery and sharpshooters. At Gainesville but two companies were engaged, and they as 
skirmishers, and after the battle the regiment was placed on picket duty, losing five men capt- 
ured by the enemy the next morning. At the memorable second Bull Run fight, August 29, 
1862, the 35th lost nine men killed and 13 wounded. It was also fired into through mistake by 
tlie 23d, with a loss of five killed and eight wounded. On the second day the 35th lay behind 
a stone wall, near the turnpike, where it lost 72 men in killed and wounded, although it did 
not fire a gun during the day, the position being upon the ground iu front of the artillery. 
When the retreat commenced it was withdrawn, and reached Centerville about 7 in the 
evening. During the battle of Chantilly in lay in the rifle pits on the right of the turnpike, 
and was not under fire. After this battle it marched via Fairfax to Falls Church, arriving on 
the 3d of September, and camping near its camp of the previous winter. On its arrival at 
Falls Church it had for its music two drtmis and one bugle, the regimental band of 24 pieces 
having been discharged, and the drum corps having lost its drums while attending the 



144 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



wounded at Bull Run. It was also without linapsacks, coats, or blankets, these having been 
left at Centerville and destroyed on the retreat. 

" At the battle of South Mountain, September 14, the regiment was deployed as skir- 
mishers, one company being left at the foot of the hill with the colors, while three moved on 
the left and six on the right of the turniDike, under strong support. The three companies on 
the left lost, during the day, 19 men in killed and wounded. After the enemy was driven from 
the hill the regiment was relieved, and reached its colors at the foot about 3 a. m. of the 15th. 
On the 15th the regiment passed through Turner's Gap, and on the morning of the Ifith 
reached the bank of the Antietam, where it was exposed for an hour to artillery fire, and lost 
three or four in wounded. During the forenoon it changed position, and in the evening, while 
moving across an open field to take up its position in a belt of woods, received a fire from a 
battery of the enemy, losing three men killed and five wounded. On the 17th it was marched, 
with the 1st Brigade, to the right, across the turnpike and into the woods in the rear of Bun- 
ker's Church, where it remained about one hour. It was then formed parallel to the turn- 
pike, in the rear of a cliff, for the purpose of attacking the flank of a line of the enemy, which 
had advanced against the 2d and 3d Brigades. Here it lay down behind the fence and ditch 
of the turniJike, and opened fire on the enemy's line, which had been reformed and reenforced, 
and kept it up until the line gave way, after which it moved forward its left wing and capt- 
ured the battle-flag of the 7tli Alabama. Just at this time the enemy formed a line on the 
right and rear, and opened a galling fire, fi rcing our line to fallback to the cliff, where it re- 
turned fire. Ammunition was soon exhausted, and the 35th and 23d were marched by the left 
flank towards the rear of the army. On reaching the hill where the batteries were posted the 
two regiments were halted and faced about in the edge of the woods to give General French 
an opportunity to form his division. The fire from the euemy became intensely severe, and 
French's division was again thrown into confusion. The two regiments then moved back for 
cartridges, and on being supplied were placed in support of two batteries, where they remained 
until the morning of the 18th. In this action the 35th lost 32 killed and 43 wounded. 

'• On the 19th the regiment went into camp a mile and a half from Sharpsburg, near the 
bend in the Potomac, where it remained a month, during which time it sutt'ered much for 
want of clothing and shoes, and from disease occasioned by its occupation of a battle-p round 
and the vicinity of the mounds of the dead. Half its officers and men were unfit for duty. 

''At the battle of Fredericksburg, December 12 and 13, the regiment lost heavily, being 
exposed for six hours on the 13th to a fire from the enemy's artillery without an opportunity 
to retaliate. Not a shot was fired by it until subsequent to this on the 13th and during the 
14th, when it was placed on picket, losing, on the night of the 15th, six men prisoners. The 
duty of the 35th after this was comparatively light. The total number of men on the rolls of 
the regiment was 1,250, of which number 593 were mustered out on the 5th of June, 1863, at 
Elniira, N. Y. For the first time in four months the regiment assembled on dress parade on 
the 19th of May previous, and General Patrick shook hands with each man as an earnest of 
the feeling with which he bade them good-by. The next day they took the cars for Aquia 
Oreek, proceeded thence by transport to Washington, where they were received by Capt. Camp, 
of Co. K (then on detatched duty as aide-de-camp to General Martindale), with a full band. 
The regunent reached Elmira May 22. and, as mentioned, was mustered out June 5. It had 
lost 130 men killed in battle, 70 by deaths from disease, BO discharged tor wounds, and 140 for 
disability." 

NINETY- FOURTH INFANTRY. 

" This regiment was organized at Sachets Harbor to serve three years. The companies 
composing it were raised in the county of Jefferson. It was mustered into the United States 
service on the 10th of March, 1862, and in March, 1863, was consolidated with the 105th In- 
fantry. On the expiration of its term of service the original members (except veterans) were 
mustered out, and the regiment, composed of veterans and recruits, retained in service until 
July 18, 1865, when it was mustered out in accordance with the orders from the War Depart- 
ment. The 94th was actively engaged while in the service, and but little time elapsed between 
the date of its organization and its first engagement. The regiment participated in the battles 
of Cedar Mountain, second Bull Run, Chantilly, Chancellorsville, South Mountain, Antietam, 
Gainesville, Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, Mine Run, Tolopotomy, Bethesda Church, Peters- 



WAR FOR THE UNION. 



145 



burg, and Weldon Railroad, besides many skirmishes of more or less importance, and suffered 
to a considerable extent. The record of this regiment is one of valiant deeds, and its scarred 
battle-flags and maimed and dead soldiers are covered with the praises awarded by a grateful 
people to those who have made themselves famous." 

ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY SIXTH INFANTRY. 

"The 186th Regiment was recruited principally in Jeffeison and Lewis counties, and was 
mustered into service September 8, 1864. It went out 980 strong, lost 130 in killed and 
wounded, 120 by disease and discharge, and returned with 730. It was in the battle of South- 
side Railroad, October 27, 1864; formed part of Warren's command in his raid to Notta- 
way, December 10; was in charge of Fcrt Mahone, in front of Petersburg, April 2, 1865; and 
finally joined in the pursuit and capture of General Lee. It was among the first to enter the 
rebel fortifications at Petersbuig, and was highly complimented by its bi-igade and division 
commanders for the gallantry shown in its chaige on Fort Mahone. It was organized at 
Sackets Harbor for the period of one year, and was mustered out, in accordance with orders 
from the War Department, .June 2. 18G5." 

ONE HUNDRED AND NINETY-THIRD INFANTRY. 

" This regiment v.as raised at .\uburn, N. Y., to serve for one, two, and three years. Jef- 
ferson County furnished a considerable number of men for it, although it was filled up with 
men from the counties of Cayuga, Oswego, Onondaga, Oneida, St. Lawrence, and Franklin 
besides. It was mustered into the service of the United States in the spring of 1865, and 
mustered out of service January 18, 1866, in accordance with orders from the War Depart- 
ment." 

SIXTH CAVALRY — " SECOND IRA HARRIS GUARD," 

" Jefferson County furnished a number of men for this regiment, which was mustered 
into the service of the United States from September 12 to Decamber 19, 1861. The original 
members were mustered out on the expiration of their ter.u of service, and the organization, 
composed of veterans and recruits, retained in service, and on the 17th of June, 1865, consoli- 
dated with the 15th N. Y. Vol. Cavalry, the consolidated force being known as the 2d N. Y. Pro- 
visional Cavalry. Its list of engagements embraces the following: SoTith Mountain, Antietam, 
Fredericksburg, Spottsylvania.Chancellorsville, Bevei'ley Ford, Middleburg, Upperville, Gettys- 
burg, Brandy Station, Rappahannock Station, Mine Run, Mechanicsville, Wilderness, Todd's 
Tavern, Hawe's Shop, Cold Harbor, Deep Bottom, Opequon, Fisher's Hill, Cedar Creek, Ap- 
pomattox Station, siege of Richmond." 

THIRTEENTH CAVALRY. 

"This regiment was organized in New York city to serve three years, and a detachment 
of men from Jefferson County joined it. It was mustered into the United States service from 
February, 1863, to March, 1864. On the 23d of June, 1865, the regiment was consolidated 
with the 16th N. Y. Cavalry, and the consolidated force known as the 3d N. Y. Provisional 
Cavalry. Its principal engagements were at Aldie, Fairfax Station, Centerville, Culpepper, 
and Piedmont, and its loss was comparatively slight. The men from Jefferson Countv be- 
longed in four companies of the regiment." 

EIGHTEENTH CAVALRY. 

"This regiment was organized in New- York city to serve three years. The companies of 
which it was composed were raised in the counties of New York, Albany, Jefferson Lewis 
Franklin, Herkimer, and Erie. It was mustered into the service of the United States fn m 
July 18, 1863, to February 3, 1864. On June 12, 1865, it was consolidated with the 14th N. Y. 
Cavalry, the consolidated force retaining the name — 18th New York Cavalry. This force re- 
mained in service until 3Iay 31, 1866, when it was mustered out in accordance with orders 
from the War Department." 

TWENTIETH CAVALRY. 

" The 20th Cavaliy was oi-ganized at Sackets Harljor, N. Y'., to serve three years. Its men 
were principally from Jeffeison County, although the counties of Lewis St. Lawience. 



146 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Oswego, Onondaga, and Albany were also represented. The regiment was mustered into the 
United States service from September 3 to September 30, 1863. and after a varied experience 
was mustered out July 31, 1865, in accordance with orders from the War Department. It 
was known as the 'McCleUan Cavalry'; went out with 12 companies, and was a line body of 
men." 

TWENTY FOURTH CAVALRY. 

" This regiment was organized at Auburn, N. Y., to serve three years, and contained a 
number of men from Jefferson County. It was mustered into the hervice in January, 1864, 
and on the 17th of Jiine, 1865, was consolidated with the 10th N. Y. Cavalry, the united force 
being called the First New Yoik Provisional Cavalry. Its principal engagements weie the 
battles in the Wilderness. Spottsylvania, Guinea Station, North Anna, Tolopotomy, Bethesda 
Church, Cold Harbor, Petersburg, Cemetery Hill, Weldon Kailroad, Eeams's Station, Peeble's 
Farm Vaughan Road, and Bellelield: and in these the regiment lust to a considerable extent. 
A number of its officers were killed in action and others died of wounds, while the loss among 
the men was pioportionace." 

TWENTY-SIXTH (''FRONTIER*') CAVALRY. 

•' This regiment was organized in the states of New York, Massachusetts, and Vermont, 
under special authority from the Secretary of War, to serve on the fmutier for one year. It 
was principallv engaged in protecting the northern frontier, and looking after suspicious 
characters, " bounty jumpers," rebel sympathizers, etc., one detachment being stationed at 
Sackets Harbor. Five companies were organized in this state, composed of mtn fiom the 
counties of St. Lawrence, Jefierson, Lewis, Franklin, Clinton, Essex, and Eric. The regi- 
ment was mustered in from December 29, 1864, to February 22, 1865, and was mustered out 
by companies from June 29. 1865, to July 7, 1865, in accordance with orders from the War 
Department." 

FIRST REGIMENT " VETERAN " CAVALRY. 

"This was organized at Geneva, N. Y., to serve three years, and mustered into the U. S. 
service fi-om July 25 to November 19, 1863. The 17th N. Y. Cavalry was consolidated with 
it September 17, 1863, and the new organization contained a considerable number of men 
from Jefferson County. The regiment was mustered out July 20, 1865, in accordance with 
orders from the War Department." 

FIRST NEW YORK LIGHT ARTILLERY. 

" (Jompany C, Capt. John W. Tamblin, was organized in Jefferson County, and mustered 
in from September 6 to October 24, 1861. It participated in the battles of Fredericksburg. 
Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Rappahannock Station, Mine Run, Spottsylvania, North Anna, 
Tolopotomy, Bethesda Church, Petersburg, and Weldon Railroad, and was mustered out, in 
accordance with orders from the War Department. June 17, 1835, after nearly four years of 
of active service. 

" Compantj D. Capt. Thomas W. Osborn, was in part from Jefferson County, and was 
mustered in from September 6 to October 25, 1861. Its list of important engagements is a 
long one. and tells a truthful tale of bravery and hard service. It took active part in the bat- 
tles of Yorktown, Williamsburg, Seven Pines, battle of June 25, 1862, Peach Orchard, Savage 
Station, White Oak Swamp, Glendale, Malvern Hill, Frederick sbui-g, Chancellorsville, Gettys- 
burg, Rappahannock Station, Mine Run, Wilderness, Spottsylvania, North Ann, Tolopotomy, 
Bethesda Cliurch, Petersburg, Weldon Railroad, and Chapel House. The battery was mustered 
out of service June 16, 1865. 

" Company H, Capt. Joseph Spratt, was raised principally in Jefferson County, and 
mustered into the service of the United States from the 10th to the 28th of October, 1861. It 
was engaged at Yorktown, Fair Oaks. White Oak Swamp, Malvern Hill. Mine Run, Wilderness, 
Spottsylvania, North Anna, Tolopotomy, Bethesda Church, Petersburg, Weldon Railroad, 
Peeble's Farm, and Hatcher's Run, and was mustered out of service June 19, 1865." 



WAR FOR THE UNION. 1 47 



FIRST REGIMENT (GOV. MORGAN's) U. S. LIGHT ARTILLERY. 

" Company H, of this regiment, Capt. Charles L. Smith, was raised at Watertown and 
Carthage, for the term of three years, and mustered in July 24, 186L This organization be- 
came a part of the 2d N. Y. Lt. Art. On the expiration of its term of service the original 
members were mustered out, and the regiment, composed of veterans and recruits, retained in 
service. It was consolidated into eight companies, and four companies of the 9th N. Y. Artil- 
lery transferred to it June 27, 1865. The regiment was mustered out September 29, 1865, in 
accordance with orders from the War Department. Its battles were: second Bull Run, North 
Anna, Spottsylvania, Tolopotomy, Cold Harbor, Petersburg, Strawberry Plains, Deep Bottom, 
New Market Road, Charles City Cross-Roads, and Reams's Station. The 2d Regiment lost 841 
men in killed, wounded, and missing ." 

FIFTH ARTILLERY. 

"Tlie third battalion of the 'Black River Artillery,' assigned to this regiment, consisted of 
Several companies raised in the counties of Jefferson and Lewis, mustered into the U. S. service 
in September, 1862. They were attached to the 5th Regiment, forming Batteries I, K, L, and 
M, to serve three years. On the expiration of its term of service the original members of the 
regiment (except veterans) were mustered out, and the organization, composed of veterans 
and recruits, i-etained in service until July 19, 1865, when it was mustered out in accordance 
with orders from the War Department. The principal engagements in which the regiment 
participated were at Point of Rocks, Berlin, Sandy Hook, and Harper's Ferry." 

TENTH ARTILLERY. 

"This regiment was composed of the First, Second, and Fourth Battalions of the Black 
River Artillery, raised in the counties of Lewis and Jefferson (Eighteenth Senate District ). 
They were mustered into the service of the United States from September 11 to October 27, 
1862, to serve three years. The original members were mustered out of service June 23, 1865, 
and the recruits consolidated into three companies and transferred to the 6th N. Y. Artillery, 
Jime 27, 1865." 

THIRTEENTH ARTILLERY. 

" Jefferson County furnished a number of men for this regiment, which was organized in 
the city of New York, and composed of men from various parts of the state. It was mustered 
in from August, 1863, to September, 1864. On the 27th of June, 1865, the organization was 
consolidated into a battalion of five companies, and transferred to the 6th N. Y. Artillery." 

FOURTEENTH ARTILLERY. 

"This regiment was organized at Rochester, to serve three years. Jefferson County fur- 
nished a considerable number of men. The regiment was mustered in from August 29 to 
December 17, 1863, and after participating in the battles of Spottsylvania, Petersburg, Weldon 
Railroad, Poplar Spring Church, Cold Harbor, and Hatcher's Run, was mustered out, in 
accordance with orders from the War Department, August 26, 1865." 

SIXTEENTH ARTILLERY. 

" This regiment was mustered into the U. S. service from September 28, 1863, to January 
28, 1864. and contained a small detachment of men from Jefferson County. It was mustered 
out of service August 21, 1865."' 

INDEPENDENT BATTERIES NOS. 20 AND 28. 

"Each contained men from Jefferson County, theiatter having quite a detachment. Tlie 
20th Battery was mustered in December 27, 1862, and mustered out July 31, 1865. The 28th 
Battery was mustered in and out at the same dates as the 20th." 

OTHER REGIMENTS. 

"Aside from those already mentioned the following regiments contained men from Jeft'er- 
8on County:— 



148 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



'' Infantry.— The 3d, 53c1. 57tli, 59th (U. S. Van-Guard), Slst, 93d, 97th, 102d, and 106th. 

" Cavnlry.—lat, 11th (Scott's 900), and 25th. And i^ossiblj' the county was also represented 
in other regiments, of which we find no account. Numerous individuals enlisted and were 
mustered into the service from other states." 

Through the commendable generosity of Mr. and Mrs. George Cook, of 
Watertown, a beautiful memorial is being erected on Public Square, in that 
city, in honor of the soldiers and sailors who fought and the martyrs who fell 
during the late war in the struggle for the freedom of a race and the preser- 
vation of the Union. The corner-stone of this monument was laid on Me- 
morial Day, 1890, with appropriate and impressive ceremonies, participated 
in by veterans of the late war and other citizens. 

The publisher considers himself fortunate in securing the following inter- 
esting paper anent the exciting events connected with the provost-marshal's 
office, from the pen of one of Jefferson County's ablest and most patriotic 
citizens: — 

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE PROVOST- MARSHAL'S OFFICE OF THE 20TH CON- 
GRESSIONAL DISTRICT, COMPOSED OF THE COUNTIES OF JEFFERSON, 
HERKIMER, AND LEWIS, FROM 1863 TO 1865.* 

It is a matter of regret that no careful diary of events centering in the 
provost-marshal's office in Watertown was kept. The stirring and important 
duties that pressed upon the staff of the office were so engrossing, and the 
work so overwhelming, that little heed was paid to the claims of history. Few 
appreciated how great the responsibilities of the position were, or how much 
of care and toil came to those entrusted with the delicate and trying semi- 
military service. That it was highly important is now generally conceded ; 
and it is fitting that an outline of the details of the office should be given in the 
Gazetteer of the county now about to issue. It has been difficult to collect 
data such as one would like to present in this connection, owing to the fact 
that the records were all sent to Washington at the close of the office, and 
these the writer has not been able to consult. In the main, however, it is 
believed that the facts herein stated, and the descriptions of the various 
phases of the work done, cover the most important details, and will, it is 
hoped, convey a fair picture of an unique chapter in the history of Jefferson 
County. 

At the outbreak of the great Rebellion patriotic sentiment ran high, and 
the flower of our youth flocked to enlist in defence of our Union. The grim 
and terrible sacrifices of war were little known to the masses of our people. 
Wise statesmen predicted that the mad folly of secession would soon give 
way before the uprising of a loyal North, and a short war was anticipated. 
For many months volunteers met every demand for fres'i troops, but as the 
conflict widened, and the sad realities of brutal war came to be fully realized 



■•• 15y Colonel Albert D. Shaw. 



WAR FOR THE UNION. 149 



through returning wounded and dead heroes, it became apparent that the 
government could not safely rely for future levies upon volunteers alone. 

To provide recruits for the armies of the Union an enrollment law was 
passed by Congress, and a provost-marshal in each Congressional district in 
the loyal states was appointed. What was done had to be done quickly, 
under the urgent necessity for filling our rapidly organized battalions, and 
making good the waste and ruin of war. The armies at the front were con- 
stantly pressing forward over fields of carnage, and enormous losses through 
wounds, death, and disease resulted. It became vitally necessary to promptly 
fill the vacant places in our ranks, and to this great duty the provost-marshal's 
ofiice in Watertown brought the unselfish and devoted services of competent 
and patriotic citizens. 

The selection of the provost-marshal for the 20th Congressional district, 
composed of the counties of Jefferson, Herkimer, and Lewis, was made by 
the Hon. Ambrose W. Clark, then ably representing the district in Congress. 
His choice of Frederick Emerson, Esq., of Watertown, was specially fort- 
unate. At the time he was appointed few appreciated what a part the 
office would play in the attending incidents of the great war, or how serious 
the service was destined to become. It is only the truth of history to affirm 
that for nearly three years the provost marshal's ofiice was a household word 
in every family in the district. Next to the news from the seat of war the 
provost-marshal's ofiice was a center of deep and solicitous interest. With 
the wild havoc of battlefields spread before the people through the daily 
press the people felt the growing need for fresh troops, and the enrollment 
made record of those who were liable to military duty. At the time the office 
was fully organized in Watertown the stupendous strife had grown to such 
dimensions that it was clear to all how serious the struggle must be before an 
honorable peace could be won. Political excitement naturally ran high, and 
the position of provost-marshal at once became prominent and extremely 
important. 

The appointment of Captain Emerson was most satisfactory from the first. 
He was in the prime of life, of well known ability and integrity, and specially 
fitted by legal and mental attainments for the position. He brought a well 
trained mind and perfect poise of temperament to the discharge of his very 
difficult duties. Few can appreciate how harrassing and wearying and diver- 
sified his responsibilties were. It was one long strain by day and by night, 
in a service where great latitude necessarily had to be exercised, in a round 
of perplexing questions new to all concerned. Few officers at the front had 
greater anxieties, or more delicate duties to perform. In all the wide circle 
of his devoted work as provost-marshal he was a model officer and an honest 
man. In purity of life, in zeal for the efficiency of his official staff, and in 
never failing sweetness of personal intercourse, Captain Emerson was a 
model chief. It was the writer's good fortune to be associated with him for 
over two years, and he owes much to the manly inspirations of these event- 

10* 



150 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



ful times. Nothing appeared to worry him, and his self-command was ad- 
mirable. Courteous, dignified, and firm, every subordinate felt his inspiring 
and commanding presence as specially helpful in every personal and official 
relation. 

Captain Emerson was averse to all ornamental flourishes in penmanship, 
-and nothing stirred up his ire sooner than showy and useless ornamentation. 
A young man from Adams — since a judge in our county — called one day 
-and made application for a clerkship. The Captain handed him a sheet of 
•paper, and pointing to a desk requested him to write a letter to show his 
style. This was done. After some httle time the production was handed 
in. It was profusely ornamented with flowing flourishes, showing the worst 
sort of folly in the useless waste of time in needless curves, etc. The Cap- 
tain gave it one glance and said, " Young man, you had better go back 
home and learn to write quickly a plain, even hand, and leave off all these 
worthless flourishes. We have no time here for such nonsense." Years after- 
wards this applicant called the attention of the ex-provost-marshal to this 
characteristic incident. It was a good practical lesson, kindly administered. 
Besides, it was in keeping with the Captain's well known dislike for all pre- 
tentious display in any direction. 

The provost-marshal met with a serious accident in connection with his 
duties in Watertown. Complaints had been made to him about the accom- 
modations at the government quarters for recruits, then situated on the 
northeast side of the river, at the lower bridge, and while inspecting the 
house the back veranda gave way, precipitating the inspecting party some 
feet to the ground below. Captain Emerson was severely injured, his spine 
receiving a hard blow from the falling ddbris. From the effects of this acci- 
dent he was confined to his home for some time, suffering greatly from his 
wounds. He has never recovered from this hurt, and it eventually caused a 
curvature of the spine, seriously deforming him, and making it necessary for 
him to walk in a half-stooping condition, with the aid of a cane. While shut 
up at home by this accident he continued to give attention to the necessary 
work of the office, and as he was the mustering officer the recruits were 
marched up to his residence to be sworn in, he sitting in a chair at a 
window inside, while the volunteers were formed in line outside. In this 
manner there was no interruption to the regular business of the office, 
although the sufferings of the provost-marshal were at times hard to bear. 

A copy of the commission of Captain Emerson is here given as a matter 
of historic record : — 

" War Department, Washington, April 16, 1863. 
''Sir: — You are hereby informed that the President of the United States has appointed 
you Provost-MarHhal of the 20th Congressional District of the State of New York, with the 
rank of Captain of Cavalry in the service of the United States, to rank as such from the 15th 
day of April, 1863. 

" Immediately on the receipt hereof please communicate to this Department, through the 
Provost-Marshal-General of the United States, your acceptance or non-acceptance; and, with 



WAR FOR THE UNION. 



151 



your letter of acceptance, return the oath herewith enclosed, properly filled uj), subscribed 
and attested, and report your age, birthplace, and the State of which you are a permanent 
resident. You will immediately report by letter to the Provost-Marshal-General, and will 
proceed to establish your Headquarters at Watertown, N. Y., and enter upon your duties in 
accordance with such special instructions as you may receive from the Provost-Marshal- 
General. (Signed) " Edwin M. Stanton. 

" Secretary of War. 
•■To Captain Fi-ederick Emerson, Provost-Marshal, ) 
20th Dist., New York." )" 

Dr. Edward S. Walker, of Herkimer County, was detailed as examining 
surgeon. His position was one of the utmost delicacy — requiring a wide 
range of medical knowledge, as well as great decision of character. Upon 
his examinations largely depended the decision as to who should be ac- 
cepted as recruits, and who were legally entitled to exemption on account of 
physical disabilities. His position was a laborious and irksome one, for the 
reason that the ills of drafted men, and men seeking exemption, were being 
constantly poured into his ears. Through all his valuable service to the close 
of the office Dr. Walker acquitted himself with conspicuous ability, and won 
the well deserved reputation of being one of the best examining surgeons in 
the service. 

Dr. Charles Goodale was appointed assistant surgeon, and was in every 
way equal to the duties that fell to his share of the trying work. 

Arthur W. Pond, of Lewis County, was appointed commissioner — the three 
above named constituting the "examining board." Pond was a capable 
man, and understood perfectly the details of the office. 

James J. Cook, of Herkimer County, and James B. Phillips, of Lewis 
County, were appointed deputy provost-marshals, and both performed their 
duties with marked ability and integrity. They gave their best services in a 
trying round of responsibilities, being faithful in all things. 

Charles H. Van Brakle was appointed chief clerk by Captain Emerson in 
April, 1863, and very efficiently filled the position until September of the same 
year, when he resigned his clerkship to accept the adjutancy of the 14th 
Heavy Artillery N. Y. Vols. John J. Safford became Van Brakle 's suc- 
cessor, and proved himself a capital official. 

Brayton C. Bailey was made enrollment clerk, and he was a model guard- 
ian of the responsible, position in which Captain Emerson's partiality placed 
him. He served with great credit until the office was abolished at the close 
of the war. 

J. Harvey Simmons was appointed quartermaster, and occupied a store on 
Court street. Here all the recruits, substitutes, and drafted men were clothed 
after being mustered into the service. He was a man well qualified for the 
position, and no truer patriot ever served his country in any age. 

David D. Gates was early appointed assistant enrollment clerk, and re- 
mained in the office until failing health forced him to give up work ; but the 
rest did not bring relief, and he died late in 1863, the only one connected 



152 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



with the office who died during its existence. He was a young man of gentle 
life, and beloved by all who knew him well. 

Edward M. Gates was a clerk in the office for some months, and a most 
competent one. He had the honor of turning the wheel for the last draft, 
and as his own name was among the number it is but fair to believe that he 
was happy when the last man was drawn and he was not chosen. 

Louis C. Greenleaf, .on the resignation of Chief Clerk Safford, was ap- 
pointed to his place in 1864. He had been a sergeant in Co. A, 35th N. Y. 
Vols., serving with distinguished zeal and faithfulness, and he performed his 
responsible duties as chief clerk with equal credit. He was occupying this 
position when the office was closed. 

Lieut. L P. Woddell, a veteran and a capital officer, had charge of the 
Veteran Reserve Corps in Watertown for some months. He was a careful 
guardian of the rights and needs of the position he so admirably filled, and 
was an honored and useful aid at the headquarters. He knew his duty and 
always faithfully performed it. 

First Lieut. George McOmber was appointed special agent upon Captain 
Emerson's recommendation in May, 1863. He had served in the 94th N. Y. 
Vols, with distinguished bravery, and was badly wounded at the second bat- 
tle of Bull Run, on August 30, 1862, from the effects of which he was dis- 
charged for disability. Returning home, and partially regaining his health, 
he accepted the position in question, but resigned the following August to 
accept a first lieutenancy in the Veteran Reserve Corps, and was ordered 
on duty in Kentucky. His parchment commission was signed by Abraham 
Lincoln, and will hereafter be regarded with pride by those who bear hi& 
name. Lieut. McOmber was a fine type of the American citizen-soldier, 
and did his whole duty during the four years of the Rebellion. 

James P. Kirby, a veteran of the 94th N. Y. Vols., was also appointed 
special agent by Captain Emerson. He was wounded in the same battle 
that Lieut. McOmber was in 1862. Two special agents were provided for 
at each provost-marshal's headquarters, and their duties were of an exacting 
character. All deliveries of recruits to the various U. S. rendezvouses at 
Elmira, Albany, or New York were under the command of special agents. 
Special investigations, the arrest of deserters, and a general supervision of the 
outside semi-military duties of the headquarters constituted the wide range, 
of their responsibilities. Special Agent Kirby was a very competent, faithful^ 
and honorable officer, and filled his trying position with great credit and 
acceptability up to the close of the office. 

Albert D. Shaw was appointed special agent to fill the vacancy occasioned 
by the resignation of Special Agent McOmber. He had served two years — 
through his term of enlistment — in Co. A, 35th N. Y. Vols., and was barely 
of age when he accepted the position. He served in the capacity of special 
agent until the office was abolished, and received the thanks of Provost- 



WAR FOR THE UNION. 



153 



Marshal Emerson in an order highly commendatory of his record during the 
eventful years passed in this useful public employment. 

The enrollhig officers. — The experiences of the enrolling officers were of a 
varied and interesting character. Often these officials were treated with 
scant courtesy on their rounds, and sometimes they were regarded in the 
light of would-be destroyers of the harmony of households. The visit of an 
enrolling officer was a serious event in many homes. In all it was a severe 
lesson in the line of duty, and taught how powerful a people's government 
really was. The memories of mothers — and fathers as well— were frequently 
at fault as to the date of birth of sons, the tendency sometimes being to rep- 
resent the boys as less than 18 years of age. And there were instances where 
the 45th birthday came swiftly! These two extremes — 18 and 45 years — 
were troublesome to enrolling officers. In these days cosmetics were not used 
to make beards grow on young faces, and hair dyes found few purchasers to 
make people along the 45-year line look younger. It was a happy era when 
slow beards and gray hairs found no tricks played upon them, but were allowed 
to take their growth unvexed with the barbers' art ! 

The enrollment was no joke in any aspect in which the official's visit might 
be regarded. Every name placed upon the rolls was to take its chance in the 
revolving wheel. This fact made the enrollment a serious subject of family 
contemplation. With the terrible havoc of war daily brought home to the 
people through reports of great battles and great losses in killed and wounded, 
in some cases cutting down brave soldiers from localities where the enroll- 
ing officer was going from house to house, it can be realized in part how- 
solemn the questions as to who was liable to the draft really were. To many 
it seemed like a roll-call of death amid the home circle of peace. There was 
brought to the citizen a foretaste of how much the government relied upon 
the whole people for support in the fiery trial of war. Health and age were 
prime factors in the problem of saving the Union through crushing out the 
Rebellion. In this light the enrolling officer was the man who placed on the 
rolls the men v/ho were liable to obey the demands for more soldiers when 
the draft came. It is not strange, under such conditions, that occasionally 
the age of a son was reported less than it really was, or that 46 years were 
reached by some born the same year as a neighbor whose record of life only 
• measured 44 years. Such lapses of memory and faults of family records — 
some on the Bible's record — were found, were even not uncommon. The 
enrolling officers were quick at hunting up facts as to the age of citizens 
where the least question arose about ages, and as the lists were hung up in 
every town few would-be deceivers escaped finally being placed on the rolls. 

The writer had some experience in correcting the enrollment in Water- 
town, and in several instances was met with sharp and angry replies. It was 
quite a common thing to lock the door and pretend that no one was at home 
when the officer called. Curiously enough the enrolling officer was known 
the moment he put in an appearance on a street. The news of his coming 



1^4 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



was swiftly circulated. Twice in the writer's experience the wife and children 
wailed and wept, as though the husband and father had just been killed in battle, 
when his name was placed on the list as liable to a draft. This period was one 
that tested the " girth and groin " of the whole people, and, all in all, the world 
never witnessed a nobler example of national patriotism and individual heroism 
than was exhibited in this stupendous conflict. It is a matter of sincere re- 
gret that the list of enrolling officers is not at hand for insertion in this con- 
nection. A few only are recalled ; one especially, Sidney Cooper, Esq., of 
Le Ray, was regarded as the model official, as his rolls were so neatly and 
accurately prepared. L. D. Morgan was enrolling officer for Watertown. In 
Le Ray a German pleaded with Enrolling Officer Cooper to be left off, for, 
he said, "Some rats dig into my cistern and die in dare, and I drinks the 
water and got some poisoned." He was sure he should not be enrolled. 
Mr. Cooper suggested that a change of air and scenery, in a trip South, 
would do him good. This idea gave no hope to the alarmed neighbor, for 
he thought the remedy very unlikely to do him any good. However he stood 
his draft and got free. 

Special Agent Kirby, in correcting the enrollment for that then portion of 
Watertown called "The Swamp," made his task effective and easy by pre- 
tending to be engaged in making a new directory of Watertown; but after he 
had finished his work, and the truth leaked out, it was not a healthy section 
of the town for this officer to visit. The consternation of the excitable resi- 
dents was indeed great over the situation. There was a lack of words to 
describe their indignant feelmgs. 

The enrollment. — The enrollment of each town in the district called for 
the name of every male citizen, at the first, between the ages of 21 and 45 
years. This was taken by enrolling officers appointed by Captain Emerson 
in every town, and involved a great deal of labor. Three copies of each en- 
rollment had to be made — one for use at Albany, another at Washington, 
and one for the files of the Watertown office. After this was completed these 
enrollments were carefully revised, and every man with a plam disability, 
such as the loss of an eye, an arm, or a leg, or teeth, or with any serious 
chronic complaint, was, upon medical examination in Watertown in person, 
stricken from the rolls. In this way the lists were cleared of men who were 
unfit for miUtary duty.. Some of the incidents attending these examinations 
were both amusing and ludicrous. Wide notice was given of the nature of 
the examinations preparatory to striking off the clearly exempt citizens, but 
great crowds presented themselves before the board, a large majority of whom 
did not come under the operation of the regulations in question. The exam- 
ining board met for convenience m the supervisors' room at the court-house, 
on Arsenal street, and here for many days was witnessed one of the most 
eager and anxious gathering of the " lame, halt, and bUnd," as well as a very 
large number who felt sick, or imagined they did, that ever visited Water- 
town. The crowd was a motley one. Rich and poor met on the same seri- 



WAR FOR THE UNION. 



^55 



ous level. The rigorous law knew no favorites. Each pressed to the front 
prepared to prove that he was not burning or able to go to the war to share 
in the hardships of the camp and the battlefield. The disappointment of 
such as were firmly turned away, for the good reason that their cases did not 
come within the scope of the order, was often painful to witness, for some- 
how a sort of panic fell upon many to have their names stricken from the 
rolls. It was customary for applicants for exemption to bring with them affi- 
davits of family physicians to prove their ills, and if the history of some of 
the prominent practitioners in the district could only be faithfully given, bear- 
ing upon this branch of their then extremely perplexing business, it would be 
rich reading for the student of character. The family physician was over- 
whelmed with sick friends during this trying period. He was called upon to 
remember ills long past, and to make clear weaknesses of uncertain serious- 
ness, in many anxious cases. To the tiexible and accommodating trickster, 
who could see weaknesses for a consideration, — and there were a few such in 
our district truth compels me to admit, — the opportunity was a — greenback 
one ! Such affidavits, as a rule, did more harm than good, for Dr. Walker 
had a keen eye for shams. The delight shown in some instances by persons 
who were exempted upon medical examination was strikingly strange. One 
nervous applicant, far gone with lung disease, came out of the examining 
room and excitedly exclaimed to a friend, " Thank the Lord, the Doctor says 
I won't live six months, and so I 'm exempt." Another came for examina- 
tion, whose case was doubtful, owing to his evident efforts to appear nearly 
helpless from " weak and crooked legs," as he termed his trouble. His anxi- 
ety to create an impression of his great physical infirmity was clear. In a 
mirthful moment the board allowed him to appear before the examining 
surgeon. Waddling about the room, with ill-concealed attempts to show how 
weak his legs were, the picture he presented, as he hobbled along with panta- 
loons rolled up above his knees, was ludicrous in the extreme. The Doctor 
took in the situation at a glance, and, looking serious, he sympathetically 
asked, "Where is the greatest pain when you walk? " "All over, if you 
plase, sir; sore as a bile, all along from me feet to me body, sure." "Try 
and walk quickly across the room," said the Doctor, and Patrick began as 
laughable a march as was ever witnessed. At every step his facial expres- 
sions were so comical, and his bow-legged walk was so clearly a make-up, 
that roars of laughter followed his funny performance. The door being 
reached Patrick was ordered out past the guard, and so into the yard, by the 
" left flank." Turning to the guard he asked, " Am I eximpt ? " " No," was 
the reply, " you will make a good soldier." The vigorous and bad language 
used by the disgusted man proved his ability to roundly abuse every one con- 
nected with the office, and, without turning down his pantaloons, he walked 
away as nimbly as possible. His trick had resulted in an absurd failure, and 
no one knew this better than himself. 



156 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



One pathetic incident in the examination of Rev. E. W. Reynolds, the 
eloquent and patriotic Universalist clergyman in Watertown at the time, is 
worthy of record. He attended the examination, and when Dr. Walker 
sounded his lungs he quickly said, " Mr. Reynolds, you are clearly unfit for 
the duties of a soldier." " I know it only too well," replied the clergyman, 
" for I should have been at the front had I been strong enough. My heart 
is with the army, and how I wish I could be at the seat of war in this trying 
hour." The pathos of his touching words drew tears from those present, as 
he passed out, to die not very long afterwards. These examinations " cleared 
the rolls " of those who could not render military service on account of plain 
and permanent physical disabilities, and thus a sound basis for computing the 
quota of each town was provided. 

Substitutes and recruits. — After it became clear to all that extra induce- 
ments and efforts would be necessary to fill the depleted armies of the Union 
a system of bounties was hit upon in the towns, whereby a sum of money 
was raised to pay for volunteers, as an inducement to enlist. Those who 
were fit for military service were liable to the draft, and many enlisted and 
took the local bounties, and a bounty the general government offered in 
addition. 

Many also, being of sound body, patriotically furnished a substitute so as 
to be free from annoyance from the draft, and to be represented at the front 
by a good soldier, m lieu of personal service. The first bounty generally paid 
by towns was $300 for three years' men. The supervisors of the towns were 
active in securing substitutes, and tried hard to fill their quotas without a 
draft. Canadians came over quite freely, and men were ready to get them a 
chance to go as a substitute. Some amusing cases of disappointments took 
place among those seeking a substitute. One instance was well known — that 
of Elmer Everett, a prominent citizen of Watertown, who, though a staunch 
Democrat, was not averse to having a colored man fill his place in the army. 
Through a broker — one who made it a business to bring principal and sub- 
stitute together — Mr. Everett sent to Montreal and had a colored appli- 
cant come to Watertown to go in as his substitute. The man reached the 
city on a Saturday after the ofl^ce had closed, and Everett secured an order 
from the provost-marshal to have his man kept in the guard-house until Mon- 
day morning, at his own expense. Bright and early on Monday Everett 
brought his man up for medical examination, when, lo, and behold ! it was 
found that he was suffermg from compound hernia. The surprise and dis- 
gust of Everett can well be miagined in view of the expenses he had already 
borne in getting the man to Watertown. The colored brother seemed to enjoy 
the situation immensely, "for," said he, "you knows I's ready to go, boss." 
It was not pleasant afterwards for any one to inquire of Everett how his 
colored substitute was getting along. Among the volunteers from Canada 
were quite a number of deserters from the British force stationed at Kings- 
ton. A well-known Canadian became somewhat famous for his prophetic 



WAR FOR THE UNION. 1 57 



forecast of coming visitors to the provost- marshal's office, who wore the 
scarlet uniform of British soldiers. His horoscope of the stars was so fault- 
less that he frequently foretold to an hour when a squad of deserters would 
make their appearance. There was one thing, at least, to be said in favor of 
this man, and that was his perfect fairness in dealing with the Canadian de- 
serters, who relied upon him for advice. Captain Emerson always made it a 
rule before enlisting a man to explain to him the amount of bounty he was 
entitled to receive, and insisted that the money due him should be paid to the 
recruit in his presence. These deserters made fine soldiers, and as they had 
no sentiment behind their first enlistment in the British army they gladly 
availed themselves of a chance to enlist in our army for better piy. Few or 
none of this class ever deserted from our army and went back to Canada. 
The writer knew one of these men well. His name was Charles Flemming, 
and he was a member of Co. A, 35th N. Y. Vols. At the battle of Fred- 
ericksburg he lost both legs by a cannon shot, and died the next day in hos- 
pital. He had served in India and in the Crimea, and often declared that 
he never had seen hotter fighting than he experienced in our regiment. He 
lies in an unmarked grave within sight of the bloody field on which he re- 
ceived his death wound. How many thousands — foreigners to our soil — died 
like Flemming, on the battlefields of our struggle, in helping tread out the 
heresy of secession amid the horrid havoc of contending armies ! 

Some of the incidents attending the escape of British deserters from the 
47th Regiment of the line at Kingston are worthy of record. The distance 
between the American shore and Kingston is only some 12 miles, but to 
most of the soldiers it was an unknown route. Long Island intervened, and 
guards were thickly stationed on its southern shore to intercept any deserters 
who might be caught making their way to the American side. For many 
months during 1863-64 the 9 o'clock evening gun at Kingston was eagerly 
listened for, as one gun each was fired at that hour for all deserters, in order 
that the guards might keep a keen watch for them. A party of six deserters 
from this regiment seized a boat at Kingston late one evening and rowed 
away around the head of Long Island, intending to land at the light-house 
on Tibbitt's Point, in Cape Vincent. By some mistake, being strangers to 
the route, they kept too far to the westward, and after an exhausting tug at 
the oars, an exercise few of the soldiers were used to, they made land on 
Grenadier Island, near its eastern point. Seeing a light in the early morning 
one of their number cautiously approached it, and this proved to be in the 
house of Abram Cooper, a wealthy farmer, and owner of most of the island. 
The deserter nervously inquired, " What place is this ; is it in Canada or 
the United States?" "The United States, and you are all right," was 
Cooper's cordial greeting, as he took in the situation at a glance. Turning to 
his comrades, who were anxiously awaiting his report, he shouted, " Come 
on, boys, we are all safe ! " Their delight was unbounded, and happier men 
never sat down to an ample breakfast than were these weary and hand-blis- 



158 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



tered deserters. The next day Mr. Cooper accompanied them to Cape Vin- 
cent, where quite an excitement was created by their appearance in bright 
scarlet uniforms. They were splendid fellows, and several ofificers of their 
regihient came over in the afternoon to try and induce them to return to 
their regiment. The citizens made it somewhat uncomfortable for these " 
ofificers, and the soldiers would not go into any private room for consultation, 
making the interview very public, with any amount of advice freely inter- 
spersed by the excited by-standers. The change in the relations between 
these soldiers and the young martinets, who a few hours before were formal 
and indifferent to them, was striking. The deserters appreciated it keenly, 
and curtly refused all the persuasive appeals made to them on the part of the 
ofificers. They all at once enlisted in our army. Another party of 10 de- 
serters crossed over on the ice, following the line of the Long Island Canal. 
Big Bay somehow bewildered them, and two of the party became exhausted 
through the heavy walking in the deep snow, and had to be left behind. The 
others pressed forward, and seeing a light on Carleton Island made for this 
point. The walk was a long and tiresome one, and they soon found that 
they had several miles to tramp before they would reach Cape Vmcent. Few 
can realize how bitter cold a walk in the night on the ice in the River St. 
Lawrence really is, who have had no experience, and when the night is cold, 
and the distance long, the situation is far from being an agreeable one- 
On finally reaching the Cape they struck the shore near the engine house, at 
the railway, and seeing a light, just at the dawn of day, one of them peeped 
in, much to the surprise of the night watchman. " Is this in the United 
States?" was his pathetic query. On being assured that he was on Uncle 
Sam's free soil he called to his half-frozen companions to " Come on," and 
a grateful coal fire never seemed friendlier to these deserters than on this 
occasion. The following day they enlisted at Watertown. 

The case of a Lowville applicant to have his name struck off the enroll- 
ment on account of short sightedness was most amusing. He protested 
stoutly that he could not see 50 yards to distinguish a man from a cow. 
After a severe examination Dr. Walker became satisfied that his eyes were 
good, and that the man was shamming. When told that he must stand his 
chance in the draft he said, " I can't see to fight." '' Oh," said the Doctor, 
"we have had so much running lately in our army that it will be a good 
thing for one like you to be there so as not to see the enemy and hold your 
ground." 

The tricks tried upon the officers to enable men to get " exempt," or to 
secure bounties as substitutes when unfit for mihtary duty, covered a wide 
range of cunning, and it often required the utmost vigilance to detect these 
brazen-faced frauds. A drafted man in our district was exempt on account 
of the total loss of his upper teeth. Months afterwards he presented himself 
as a substitute when the bounties were largest, and, not being recognized in 
the rush of recruits, he was accepted and sent down to Quartermaster Sim- 



WAR FOR THE UNION. 1 59 



inons, on Court street, to be furnished with a suit of Uncle Sam's clothing. 
By some mischance he took out his new set of teeth while being clothed, and 
the quick eye of Special Agent Kirby detected him in the act. After he had 
put on his uniform he was taken before Captain Emerson — who had been 
made aware of the facts — for a short drill. " Take off your cap," ordered 
the captain in a quick, sharp voice. It was promptly done. " Front face !'' 
and he faced to the front looking every inch a soldier. " Take out your 
teeth," came next, and so unexpectedly that, amid a shout of laughter from 
those present, he instantly took them out. The Captain sent him before 
Dr. Walker, with his teeth in his hand, with the request that he be informed 
how a soldier was to eat hard-tack without his upper teeth ! The Doctor, 
who had been shrewdly deceived by the man, was in a furious rage, and made 
it lively for the would-be deceiver. Dr. Walker did not hear the last of this 
ludicrous incident during his service in Watertown. 

Deserters and " boiaify Jui/ipers.'' — There were two classes of deserters 
who became well known along the northern frontier, bordering on Canada, 
during the war days of 1862-65. First, there was the "bounty jumper,' 
who enlisted with the sole intention of securing a large bounty and then 
making his escape to Canada, only to reappear at some distint point in the 
states to repeat the operation. "Jumping the bounty" and "bounty 
jumpers " described this precious class of rascals in the popular speech of the 
time. Second, there came the much smaller class who deserted from the 
front, or while home on furlough, and made their way to Canada, or, as was 
frequently the case, hired out to farmers on the American side near the bor- 
der, so as to easily cross into the Dominion m case of danger. The first 
class named were, as a rule, a bad lot, without patriotism or character, and 
mere robbers of the bounty paid for the purpose of securing recruits for our 
army, while many of the second class, returning to their homes along the 
northern border on furlough, in a moment of weakness, and weary of the 
dangers and hardships of active service, and not unfrequently suffering from 
wounds and ill-health, were tempted to make their way across the St. Law- 
rence into the Queen's dominions. The records of deserters from various 
New York regiments were sent to the provost-marshal-general at Washington, 
and through his office transmitted to the provost-marshal of the section in 
which the original enlistments were made out. It was found that the usual 
course of a deserter finally led him back to his old home haunts, and there 
traces of him were most likely to be found. 

The record of some of the arrests made in this county will be of interest, 
as a part of the stirring events of this exciting period, and a few will be given. 
It may be said in this connection that Jefferson County and the provost- 
marshal's office in Watertown were regarded as poor places for bounty jump- 
ers and deserters to conceal themselves or ply their game of fraud, owing to 
the excellent organization of Captain Emerson's office, and the zeal displayed 
in bringing all delinquents to justice. 



l6o JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Information having reached the provost-marshal that several deserters were 
lurking about in a not distant town. Special Agent Shaw was ordered to 
take a couple of guards and carriages and seek their arrest. It was a beauti- 
ful October morning in 1864, and the drive was delightful. By i o'clock 
p. M. two deserters had been arrested, and a third was known to be in the 
vicinity. The utmost secrecy was necessary, for these men were always on 
the alert, and took to their heels at the first suspicion of any danger. Most 
deserters changed their names, and this deepened the difficulties of finding 
out through inquiries where they were located. In this instance, while a full 
description of a deserter known to be in the immediate vicinity was in the 
officer's possession, no trace of him could be found. At last, well along in 
the afternoon, Officer Shaw sent the guards on to Watertown with the two 
deserters already secured, and set out in a single carriage to make still further 
efiforts to find the person wanted. By diligent inquiries he got trace of his 
man, but failed for some time to find out where he was working. While 
passing a school-house, just as the scholars had been dismissed for the day, 
a bright lad of seven or eight years of age, with ruddy cheeks and neatly 
dressed, was asked by the officer if he would not like to ride. He nimbly 
climbed into the carriage, and was soon on terms of intimacy with the driver. 
The small boy is always one of the detective's best friends, for what he does 
not know about a neighborhood and its current gossip is not worth knowing, 
as a general rule. Under careful questioning the boy was asked if he knew 

a man by the name of , the assumed name of the deserter. " Oh, 

yes," was the prompt reply, " he works for my pa." The officer's horse was 
given a free rein, and the boy was told that he would be driven home. The 
house where he lived was situated off the main road on which he was driving 
about half a mile, and they were soon at the place. Hitching the horse 
the boy led the way, and luckily the farmer was at home. The officer took 
the farmer one side and told him the facts. He knew Captain Emerson 
well, and when assured that his favorite hired man was a deserter his aston- 
ishment was great. "A deserter ! " he repeated, " it cannot be, for he is one 
of the best men I ever have had on my farm. His young wife works for us 
also, and they have been here for some weeks. They are very loving and 
religious people, and there must surely be some mistake about this." He 
was given to understand that there was no doubt about his identity. " Well," 

said he, " is just putting the horses into the stable down under the 

barn there, and you can soon see whether you are right or not." Walking 
quietly down to the stable, under the guidance of the alert small boy, the 

officer had just reached the stable door when stepped out. " How 

are you ? " said the official. The deserter stood bewildered for a moment on 
being called by his real name, but quickly shaking off his embarrassment re- 
plied, "That's not my name." He was told it was one of his names, as he 
edged away in the direction of some straw stacks near at hand. The care- 
less display of a large Colt's revolver by the officer had a magical effect upon 



WAR FOR THE UNION. 161 



him, and he retraced his steps saying, " There is some mistake about all this; 
but what can be done ? " He was informed that he must accompany the 
officer to Watertown, and at this point his face was a picture for an artist. 
The agony of the situation was really painful to witness. " Great Heavens ! " 

he said, " what a mistake you have made. My name is ■, and I know 

nothing about the army. My wife and I work here, and we have been here 
for weeks. What can I do? " It was soon made clear to him that he must 
get ready to go to Watertown, and at once, and placing him in front he was 
marched to the house from the barn. Here a strangely pathetic scene took 
place. The farmer, his wife, and the small boy, with the deserter and his 
wife, met in the dining-room. " What does this mean ? " asked the farmer. 

" Mean ! " bravely answered , " I don't know. This man declares I 

am a deserter, and I am now under arrest and must go with him to Water- 
town. It 's all a big mistake." At this point his really very pretty young wife 
threw her arms about his neck and sobbed as though her heart would break. 
The fanner's family were all in tears, and the officer looked on not unmoved 
by the picture of pain before him. For nearly a minute not a word was 
spoken, and the almost frantic wife clung to her husband as though it was to 
be her last interview with him before he was shot. Finally he was ordered 
to hastily make ready to go to Watertown, when he asked to have an oppor- 
tunity to change his clothes before going away. This request brought its 
embarrassments, for the officer well knew how great the temptation to bolt 
out of a window would be, and frankly told him so. It was arranged that the 
wife should bring his clothing into a closet, with no window, and here, under 
the range of tlje officer's revolver, a fitting change in dress was made. This 
proceedmg called forth angry remonstrances from the deserter, who loudly 
declared that he would " make the officer smart " for such indignities prac- 
ticed upon an innocent man ! 

The farmer and his wife were completely overcome and presented a woe- 
begone appearance. " Why," said the farmer, " has always joined in 

our family prayers, and so has his wife, and nicer Christian people 1 have 
never known, to all appearances." He was told that the man was no doubt 
a deserter, and arrangements were made for the prisoner's wife and their 
eft'ects to come to Watertown the following day, when " all was to be made 
clear," to use the deserter's words. "Dear me," replied the farmer, " how 
unfortunate I am ! This is the second deserter who has worked for me this 
fall." After a leave-taking, mingled with tears and prayers, the officer and 
the deserter drove off. As soon as the carriage was out of hearing the offi- 
cer said to the deserter, " What cheek you have got ! You would make a 
good actor. How could you lie so, looking that good man and his wife 
square in the face ?" " I '11 tell you," was the quick and frank answer ; " the 
truth is that I could not do otherwise after making them believe I was a 
Christian man, and kneeling down every day with them at family prayers. I 
really had not the courage to tell them the truth when you so suddenly 



I 62 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



brought me before them face to face. No, sir, I couldn't do it. I am the 
man you want, and I 'm glad you have got me, for I have lived in a hell 
within myself for months past. Every man I 've seen coming across the lots, 
or down towards the house, has seemed to me to be an officer coming to ar- 
rest me. Twice when plowing recently I have dropped the lines, ready to 
run for the woods, before I found out there was no cause for alarm. I 'm 
glad it is over, for I 've grown poor under the ever present fear, and now I '11 
go back to ray regiment and manfully serve out my time. I was a great fool to 
desert ; but I got married when I came home on furlough, and when they re- 
fused to grant me a longer furlough I very foolishly took one. It was kind 
of hard to leave her and go back, and so I told her I had been discharged, 

for I had been wounded in battle. I went to 's to work, half resolving 

I would give myself up and go back to my regiment again. I 'm glad I am 
going back now, and if I don't redeem myself, as a good soldier, when I 
take my old place, then I don't know myself." The next morning the wife 
and trunk were brought in, and the farmer — a loyal Republican and a good 
citizen — found out that his " hired man " had a previous engagement to keep 

with Uncle Sam. No amount of persuasion, however, would induce to 

see the farmer. He said he " could not bear to have him see what a sneak he 
had been." This deserter, who was at heart a really good fellow, was sent 
back to his regiment along with some new recruits, and proved as good as 
his word in his soldier record. 

A second adventure of the same officer took place about the same time 
on the St. Lawrence, a few miles below Millen's Bay, at Grennell's Island. 
On the Canadian shore opposite this point quite a little colony of deserters 
had found work at small pay on farms about the section, and several were 
in the habit of crossing over the river to pay visits to relatives and friends 
who met them at the shore. Word having been sent to the provost marshal 
Private Payne and Special Agent Shaw were sent to the river to break up 
the practice, and secure the arrest of some of the deserters if possible. Tak- 
ing up quarters with a family named Carter, Hving just across from Gren- 
nell's Island, the detectives had not long to wait before the wife of a deserter 
came down and waved a signal to her husband to come across. The detec- 
tives were concealed in the chamber, and soon saw a small boat put out 
from the other side. It came over, and just as it struck the beach the offi- 
cer, pistol in hand stepped forward and ordered the deserter to surrender. 
He was sitting in his skiff, talking to his wife, so as to be ready for any sur- 
prise, as was his custom, and the moment he was confronted by the officer 
he sprang up, and with an oar quickly pushed his boat out beyond reach. 
Pointing his pistol at the deserter Shaw commanded him to come ashore or 
he would fire. His wife jumped up and down and shouted " Don't you do 
it ; don't you do it ; let him shoot you first." She was no coward, and her 
ringing words had a strange effect upon the now pale-faced deserter — giving 
him courage, the bhnd courage of despair, and his wife's stirring words, 



WAR FOR THE UNION. 163 



shrieked into his ears, spurred him on in his desperate eftort for freedom. 
Shaw shoved off his boat, and, being a good oarsman, soon gained upon the 
retreating deserter. The wife kept up her encouraging appeals, while the 
lady residents of the house on the shore were eager spectators of the comical 
race taking place before them. The deserter had a small sail to his skiff, 
and this began to aid him as he pulled out from under the shore. Shaw found 
that the race was an uneven one under the conditions of oars and sail, and 
in hastily looking over his shoulder to see how the thing was working, an oar 
slipped up on the thole-pin, and it bent down, and over went the officer on his 
back, in the bottom of the boat, with his heels in the air. A shout from the 
jubilant wife on shore did not add to tlie officer's feelings,and regaining his feet, 
in the tottling boat, he shouted that he would shoot if the deserter did not in- 
stantly surrender. No heed was paid to the summons, and fire was opened upon 
him in brisk fashion, at less than loo yards distance. Bullet after bullet, from a 
heavy Colt's revolver, was sent point-blank at the desperate man, who was row- 
ing for dear Hfe to get across the river. Each shot went close to the mark, as 
could be seen as they splashed into the river just beyond him. Six shots 
were fired, when the chase had to be abandoned, and Shaw returned to the 
shore, a disgusted and beaten man. 

The deserter's wife was on the shore and greeted him with jeers, but a 
threat that her own arrest might follow silenced her abuse — which was, per- 
haps, not unnatural under the circumstances. Later in the day a drum and 
fife was heard across the river, and by the aid of a good glass a gathering of 
men could be seen there. Early in the evenmg a neighbor, who had been on 
the other side, came and told us that an attack was contemplated from the de- 
serters, who had sworn vengeance on us for our attempt to arrest one of their 
number. The officer and guard prepared to give them a warm reception in 
case they should come. Bullets were cut up into slugs so as to make a scat- 
tering charge, doors and windows were barricaded, and all was made ready 
for a stubborn defence. The ladies volunteered to go out on picket, but this 
was not permitted. The drum and fife could be heard plainly for more than 
an hour, and when darkness came on a sharp outlook was kept for the threat- 
ened attack. But none came. The night passed with no alarm, and the next 
day the forces of the United States withdrew. 

The deserter, after the war, said that one bullet passed through his hair, 
and several of them whistled so near to him that he feared he had been hit. 
He declared that he was " too scared to surrender," and that he mechanically 
took to the oars, rowing away in vigorous fashion, in sheer desperation from 
the first impulse that came over him. This adventure had a marked effect, 
however, upon the actions of the deserters living across the river. They 
made a great deal of noise and threatened great things because of this at- 
tempt to arrest one of their clan, but they took good care to keep themselves 
safely on the Canadian side of the river. The officer, on returning to Water- 
town, was unmercifully hectored over this failure to arrest the deserter. Even 



164 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



the good Captain Emerson laughed until his sides must have ached as he was 
told the interesting tale of the adventure. This was an instance where the 
force of the United States was baffled by the escape of the enemy. It was 
the only instance in the history of the office where a failure was met with in 
arresting a deserter ; and in this case there was only reason for gratitude on 
the part of the officer afterwards that some of his shots did not hit the un- 
fortunate deserter. 

A third instance of the arrest of a deserter made a good deal of excite- 
ment. A man brought information to the provost-marshal that his youngest 
brother, who had come home from his regiment on furlough, was intending 
to desert, and that he was being harbored and encouraged in this intention 
by a "copperhead" uncle, and he wished him to be arrested before he had 
time to run away to Canada. A zealous Republican himself, in the days when 
patriotic excitement ran high, he was deeply pained at the course of his young 
brother, and so came to have him secured and sent back to duty. Special 
Agent Shaw was ordered to take the case in hand, and went to the elder 
brother's house early the next morning. Together they drove to the uncle's 
place, and the latter's rage on being charged with concealing the deserter 
knew no bounds. Finally the volley of abuse was cut short by the action of 
the officer in pulling out a pair of " handcuffs," and declaring that he would 
clap them on him unless he instantly ceased his tirade and point out where 
the deserter was in hiding. This had the desired effect, and with a crest- 
fallen look he led the way to the horse barn, in the loft of which young 

had a hiding-place. A more woe-begone young man was never seen than 
this one, with his hair and clothes covered with literal " hay seed," and half 
scared out of his wits. He was really a pitiable sight, and cried like a child. 
Taking him into the two-seated carriage he was driven to the elder brother's 
house, so that the prisoner might see his old mother, who lived with him, a 
sweet woman with white hair, and in feeble health. Arriving there the officer 
went in first to comfort the old mother by explaining that the erring son stood 
in no danger from being shot, but that on being returned to his regiment only 
a nominal punishment, such as loss of pay, was likely to be inflicted upon 
him. The prisoner had been left in the kitchen in charge of two of his 
brothers, and presently a great shout was heard there. Shaw rushed out to 
see the three brothers running for dear life across a field at the rear of the 
house. Taking in the situation at a glance he gave chase also, but found him- 
self a bad fourth, with no hope of coming up with the deserter. Calling on 
him to stop, with no eftect upon the lively retreating foe, Shaw fired at him. 
The bullet cut the wind close to his face, and he at once stopped, throwing 
up his hands. For an instant the officer feared that his shot had taken ef- 
fect, but this^ soon proved not to be the case. The two brothers coming up 
seized him by the collar. " O dear ! O dear ! " he cried, gasping for breath, as 
he stood pale, trembling, and hatless ; "I don't know what made me run 
away. I really could n't help it. My legs started off with me before I knew 



WAR FOR THE UNION. 165 



what I was doing. O dear ! O dear ! what shall I do, what shall I do ! " 
The serious side of this scene having happily passed without injury to the de- 
serter, a reaction took place, and the officer and the two brothers laughed 
until the tears ran down their cheeks. The prisoner was duly brought to 
Watertown without further incident, and honorably served out his term of 
enlistment as a good soldier. He lived to return after the close of the war, 
and married a worthy wife, thus wiping out by manly service the weakness 
induced by ill health and bad counsel. 

Special Agent Kirby got upon the track of a deserter who was engaged 
in Watertown in the bounty broker business. OA^ing to a quarrel with his 
partner he was " given away " to the officer as being a deserter from the 
navy. Kirby found him out, but he said he had a discharge up in Rutland 
at his father's, and suggested that he hire a horse and buggy and accompany 
him up there for it. This was done; and on arriving at the house Kirby 
proceeJed to follow him up to his wife's room, but finding the lady unpre- 
pared for their visit he remained outside in the hall. '• Mary," said the de- 
serter, " where is my discharge ? " " In that lower bureau drawer over there," 
was the instant response of his wife. Kirby remained for a few minutes 
awaiting the advent of his prisoner, when, deeming the time sufficient, he 
opened the door only to see an open window and his prisoner exercisingr 
"leg bail" in a brilliant burst of speed for the woods not far off. A glance 
at the situation showed Kirby that the game was up, and he returned to 
Watertown somewhat crestfallen. However, he said nothing, but concluded 
that his deserter would return soon, and in this view he made no mistake. A 
week later he was caught in his boarding place in town, and sent back to his 
ship, serving faithfully, and came back to the county after the war, dying 
here only a couple of years ago. 

On another occasion Special Agent Kirby and Chief Clerk Greenleaf went to 
Le Ray in a buggy to arrest a deserter. Having found him at work in a field 
some miles distant from his home, he said he was not adeserter, but had his per- 
mit to be absent on leave at his house. This seemed possible, and the man said 
he would harness his horse to the wagon and drive with them to show them the 
order. The horse was a poor looking animal, and as the man's brother was 
with him they were allowed to drive ahead and show the way. All went well 
until a turn in the road was reached, when the whip was applied by the de- 
serter to his old horse, with such result as to completely outpace the officer's 
roadster. Amid a cloud of dust the disappearing fugitive reached his home, 
and bolted for the woods, escaping in the deepening darkness. This escape 
was comically described by an eye-witness, and " the race " was long after- 
wards remembered as a decidedly laughable scene. 

This same excellent officer arrested seven deserters on one trip to Hen- 
derson, the largest capture made in the history of the office. 

When the draft for the town of Salisbury took place Deputy Provost-Mar- 
shal Cook was present, this being his residence. He was requested to try 
1 1* 



l66 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



a turn at the wheel, and did so, remarking that " he knew how to shake his 
own name to the bottom." The blindfolded man drew out the card, and a 
shout went up when "James J. Cook" was the name read off. The fre- 
quency of such a coincidence was striking, for it occurred several times during 
the draft in VVatertown. 

One diy a would-be recruit entered a barber shop in Watertown and had 
hair and whiskers neatly dyed. The watchful Kirby spied out his trick and 
advised Dr. Walker of the scheme. When he appeared for the surgeon's 
examination his attempt to appear younger than he was came to grief. He 
acknowledged that he was 55 instead of 45 years of age, but declared he was fit 
to be a soldier. His investment in hair dye was a dead loss on this occasion. 

William Wright, of Watertown, a well known person at the time, was ap- 
pointed janitor at headquarters. Wright was a happy, easy-going man, 
always ready to take it easy when he could. While the officials were all out 
at dinner one day a soldier called to see about securing transportation back to 
his regiment. Wright told him to wait a few minutes until some one who could 
attend to him appeared. A musket of the old pattern, left by one of the 
veterans not then on duty, was in the corner, and the soldier took it up, say- 
ing that he would shoiv him how to handle a gun. Wright was sitting with 
his chair tilted back against the wall of the room, reading a newspaper, and 
the soldier went through the manual of arms with a great deal of vim. Finally 
he shouted, " take aim, fire !" Suiting the action to the word, and to his hor- 
ror, the musket was discharged with a report in the small room like a cannon. 
It was loaded with the old-fashioned " ball and three-buck-shot " cartridge, 
and these crashed through the window, the bullet lodging in the casing of 
the window of the American Hotel opposite, while one of the buck-shot 
swept into the dining-room, where many guests were at dinner, causing no end 
of excitement. Wright, when the gun went off, sprang out of his chair and 
fell sprawling on the floor, half dead with fright, while the soldier ran out and 
down stairs, never appsaring afterwards. This exploit was the talk of the 
town for days, and several persons claimed that the charge just missed them. 
It was the only shot fired at the provost-marshal's office during the war. 
Wright allowed no loaded guns about after this adventure. 

The draft. — After long preparation, calling for severe and continuous hard 
work, the efforts of supervisors failed to furnish men fast enough to fill the 
quotas of the towns, and a draft was ordered, both in 1863 and in 1864, to 
make up the required number of recruits. Great excitement prevailed 
throughout the district. Bitter political opponents of the administration 
uttered dire threats against the provost- marshal and his subordinates, and 
many feared that a riot would take place if the order for a draft was carried 
out. The fact was that the dreaded draft was no joke. The revolving wheel 
knew no law save that of chance. Within its cheerless and capacious circle 
were received the cards copied from the carefully compared rolls containing 
the names of all the men liable in a town to do military duty, and the out- 



WAR FOR THE UNION. 1 67 



come was left to the chances of a blind draw. The revolving wheel — a cir- 
cular box some three feet in diameter by one foot in width, and mounted 
much as a grindstone usually is — used for the draft was designed by E. B. 
Wynn, Esq., at his special request. He did his work very creditably, but the 
fates brought about a strange reward for his kindness, his being one of the 
earliest names drawn from the cylindrical wheel he had so skillfully con- 
structed. This wheel is now in charge of the sheriff of the county, having 
been bought at the sale of the office effects by Captain Emerson, and by him 
loaned to the sheriff for safekeeping, and to be used in the drawing of jurors. 
Captain Emerson has presented it to the Jefferson County Historical Society, 
and it will be given over into their keeping as soon as a suitable building for 
keeping their records is secured. It is one of the most interesting relics of 
the draft in existence. The draft days were busy ones at the provost-mar- 
shal's headquarters, as well as painfully exciting to the residents of towns 
about to undergo its trying ordeal. A full record of the daily incidents of the 
draft would be of intense interest, for many characteristic scenes of the pe- 
riod would be recalled by the record, now lost forever. It being the object 
of the writer to place a fair and full picture of the work of the provost mar- 
shal's office on record, details are given to this end. 

The basis of a draft was determined at the provost-marshal-general's office 
in Washington, and based upon the population of the various states, as shown 
by the last census. The enrollment under this same data came under Cap- 
tain Emerson's jurisdiction in the three counties embraced in the 20th Congres- 
sional district. When a town was to be "drafted," as the phrase went, the 
roll was brought out, the cards copied from it, carefully compared and checked 
off, and the number of men called for to complete the quota was announced. 
Owing to the nervous and suspicious state of public feeling Captain Emerson 
was anxious to have every one satisfied that strict impartiality was observed 
in all the stages leading up to the draft. He believed that patience and care 
in explaining all the details connected with the important event would do 
much to convince all interested that no favoritism whatever was permitted, 
and that all was open for inspection, everythmg being conducted on the fair 
and square principle. 

At this distance of time, when a new generation has grown up in the in- 
terval, it is hard to form any adequate idea of the bitter and malignant preju- 
dices which were aroused by the draft. Anti-war Democrats — as a class of 
grumblers connected with the Democratic party were then generally called — 
openly declared that there would be some sleight of hand used whereby Re- 
publicans would escape and Democrats would be drafted herein Watertown. 
Absurd and senseless rumors flew thick about, deeply stirring up strife and 
creating bad blood. It was a threatening time about the city, and grave 
fears were entertained by good men as to the result of a draft during this 
heated period. The object of the Democratic tactics was to make the en- 
forcement of the law difficult, and with the masses of the people unpopular 



I 68 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



War had become serious by this time. The cruel and bloody record of many 
months of disease and carnage, and the burial-mounds multiplied amid the 
old home scenes, where gallant soldiers were laid away to rest, surrounded' 
with the hallowed associations of peace and youth, had made war a terrible 
alternative. Besides, those who could go readily early volunteered ; later on, 
others followed as duty made the way clear; but when a great additional 
"300,000 more" was needed the solemnity of the situation became deep 
and impressive. The Union rested on the bayonets of our soldiers, and if 
these were allowed to trail in the dust all would be lost. Every man at home 
who gave the government loyal support even in the humblest way was a hero, 
in full measure, for united patriotism at home and the boys in blue at the front 
struck down a false flag and wiped out the dark shadow that had cursed our 
civilization from the first. The pent-up eagerness of the people in the early 
dajsof June was painful. The public pulse was in aflutter. Many believed 
that the draft would be resisted by blind force. Men who nevtr thought of 
going to the fiont to fight the rebels openly swore that they would fight to 
stop the draft I Somehow, and why it is hard to explain, the people had an 
idea that the government would not dare to enforce the proposed drafting of 
men. The morning before the first draft took place in VVatertown a prom- 
inent Democrat stopped Captain Emerson on his way to his oftice early in 
the day, and calling him aside said, "Captain, you must not have the draft 
to morrow, for if you do there will be bloodshed. You and I are old friends, 

and I tell you this in seriousness. It is a dangerous time. Why, even 

swears he will shoulder a musket and help prevent it." " The draft will pro- 
ceed to-morrow as ordered," replied the Captain coolly, " and if it is lesisted 
I will see that my duty is performed as I understand it," and he walked on 
to his ofiice. All through the day leading citizens of both parties called, and 
most of them came to decry allowing the draft to take place until public 
excitement had time to cool off. The Union League of Watertown held a 
meeting the same evening to consider the situation, and Captain Emerson 
was invited before them and earnestly advised to postpone the draft owing 
to the unrest about it. " Gentlemen," was the Captain's dignified answer, 
" I have been ordered by superior officers at Washington to commence the 
draft to-morrow, and it will take place. It is simply my duty as a military 
officer to obey orders, and this is what I propose to do." A leading Repub- 
lican lawyer, John Clark, Esq , patriotic and honored as few of our citizens 
ever were, said to Captain Emerson on this occasion, "You don't seem to 
realize the danger we are in. You don't know what trouble there is brewing. 
You had better order the draft delayed so as to let this intense excitement 
die out. Why, blood will flow in our streets, most likely, if you persist in 
your determination to go on with this draft." " I cannot answer for what may 
occur," slowly and impressively responded the Captain, "beyond the fact 
that I shall go on with the draft in the morning at the appointed hour. My 
duty is to obey orders, and it is also the duty of all good citizens to respect 



WAR FOR THE UNION. 1 69 



and obey the laws. If we are to have bloodshed I shall not commence it ; 
and if riotous proceedings take place 1 shall do my best to enforce order, and 
I believe 1 shall be able to do so. At any rate I will do my part, and if any 
disturbance follows those who incite it must answer for the consequences." 
The situation 7cias critical, and no one knew this better than did Captain Emer- 
son. He had a list of the faultfinders and turbulent " anti-drafters," and knew 
what threats had been made and who made them. But, better than all, he 
had a goodly company of invalid soldiers ready at hand, armed and equipped, 
prepared to compel peace at the point of the bayonet. The cool and digni- 
fied bearing of the provost marshal did much to quiet the anxious and awe the 
■would-be disturbers. The facts were that he did not "scare," as one of the 
Democrats phrased it, "worth a cent." The draft took place as ordered, and 
a quieter town could not be found a.nythere. It was even painfully still, as 
though a funeral was taking place. Captain Emerson had inspired both fear 
and confidence by his tact and courage, and the embers of what at one time 
threatened to burst into a blaze of party fury died out utterly. 

For convenience sake the draft took place in the historic old county clerk's 
■oftice on Court street. It was so small that only a few could be admitted, 
but enough of both parties were called in to examine the cards and rolls to 
insure full and unquestioned evidence of the perfect fairness of the opera- 
tion. The manner of conducting the draft was briefly as follows: After a 
satisfactory comparison of the rolls and cards the latter were placed in the 
" wheel" through a little trap door, and then this was closed. The supervi- 
sor of the town being drafted was generally invited to turn the wheel, thus 
shaking up the cards thoroughly. A blindfolded boy was then allowed to 
open the slot, reach in his hand, and take out one card. This was handed 
to the oiTicial in charge, and the name and number on it was read out aloud at 
the door, for the benefit of the deeply anxious crowd outside. This name 
was put down, the card checked and filed, and thus the operation was re- 
peated until a sufficient number of names had been drafted to fill the quota. 

There never was the slightest ground for any complaint, so far as the draft- 
ing process was concerned, in our district. Some curious results, however, 
came out of the "wheel," as the circular box used for drafting was called. 
At Evans Mills a club of young men was formed for mutual protection in 
case one of their number was drafted. When it took place iicarly eve}-y one 
of them 7vas drafted / In one town in our county, having a Democratic 
supervisor, six veterans, who had reeilisted in the field, sent home to have 
their bounty of $300 paid to them from this town. As they had been 
credited already to the town this supervisor thought he had them sure and 
fast, and refused to pay over their bounty. This caused a row, of course, 
and the outcome of it all was that Captain Emerson got an order to credit 
these six men to a town that stood ready to pay the bounty due, and this was 
done quickly and gladly by the supervisor of Watertown. Word was sent to 
that a draft for six men would take p'.ace the next week. A clap of 



I70 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



thunder from a clear sky could not have mide more commotion than did this 
order. The town was up in arms against their foolish supervisor. Curses 
long and loud fell upon him. The day of the draft nearly every man liable 
to its claims was on hand. These crowded one of our oflPices in the Safford 
block, and after the examination of the rolls, etc., had been satisfactorily 
made the draft commenced. The supervisor was invited inside the railing, 
as were several prominent citizens of the town, to see that all was properly 
done. After three men had been drafted Captain Emerson, noticing the 
pale face of the supervisor, invited him to turn the wheel. He did so, revers- 
ing it twice or three times, and giving it a good shaking up. " Put in your 
hand and take out a card," said the Captain. The supervisor did so, handing 
it to the officer conducting the operations. When the name was read out it 
was the supervisor's. He had drafted himself! A great, angry shout of ap- 
proval went up from his disgusted neighbors and townspeople, as the poor 
man sank back in his chair, pale as though mortally wounded by a shot from 
the enemy in battle. The comments made by those present were far from 
comforting, and he sat half dazed until the draft was over and many had 
gone out of the room. It cost him $1,500 to get a substitute, the unwilling 
price of pig-headed meanness and folly. 

The " draft " was an efficient way to fill quotas, but in our Congressional dis- 
trict only a small percentage were drafted. The able supervisors of the sev- 
eral towns — each being selected for useful service — succeeded in largely mak- 
ing up their quotas through substitutes and volunteers. The bounties raised 
by the various towns amounted to large sums, but these were paid cheerfully. 
The town of Ellisburgh, in JeiTerson County, wiped off its indebtedness in 
one year, the tax rate being seven per cent.-I 

It can be truthfully and deservedly claimed for the officials in the provost- 
marshal's offi :e in Watertown that they very efficiently did their whole duty 
as honest and patriotic men. They were all intensely in earnest in the work 
committed to their hands. In no district was the discipline better or the rep- 
utation superior, in all that contributed to the public confidence in the pro- 
vost-marshal's office. Many of the subordinates had been tried in battle ; 
several were suffering from serious wounds. Lieut. McOmber,Brayton C.Bailey, 
S. Harvey Simmons, Lieut. I. P. Woddell, Louis C. Greenleaf, James P. Kirby, 
and Albert D. Shaw were all veterans, each having volunteered at the com- 
mencement of the war, and either served two years, the term of enlistment, 
or had been discharged on account of wounds or disability. Bailey carried 
a bullet in his head, having received a severe wound at the second battle of 
Bull Run. 

An honorable and highly valuable public service was rendered by Captain 
Emerson and his subordinates in a very trying period of the nation's history^ 
and in a manner reflecting the greatest credit upon them all. They filled the 
measure of a patriotic duty without fear and without favor, and brought no 
reproach upon the fair name and fame of the 20th Congressional district. It 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 171 

is fitting and altogether proper, therefore, that a brief record of this perilous 
era in the history of JetTerson County should have a place in this Gazetteer, 
for the work performed was in every way well done. 

The following communication from the War Department will show that an 
effort to secure a complete list of the enrolling officers from the files of that 
office was unavailing. The records of the provost-marshal's office in Water- 
town were all turned over to the proper authorities at Washington, and no 
duplicates were retained. This will explain the regretted omission in this 
instance : — 

" War Department, Washinoton City, November 21, 1889. 

"Sir: — In reply to your commimieation of the 19tli instant, requesting to be furnished 
the names of the enroUing offtcera of tlie 20th Congressional District of New York, I am di- 
rected by the Secretary of War to state that the Board of Enrollment for the 20th Congres- 
sional District of New York was organized under the enrollment act of March 3, 1863, on the 
19th day of M&y, 1863, headquarters at Watertown, N. Y., with the following members: — 

"Frederick Emerson, captain and provost-marshal; Arthur Pond, commissioner; Dr. Ed- 
ward S. Walker, surgeon. 

" The district embraced the counties of Jefferson, Lewis, and Herkimer, and was sub- 
divided for enrollment and draft purposes into fifty-eight (58) sub-districts, with an enrolhng 
officer for each. R. H. Huntington was enrolling offtcer for Adams, first sub-district (Jeffer- 
son County), and C. Ackerman for Winfield, 58th sub-district (Herkimer County.) 

"The following subordinate offlcers also appear during April, 1865 (latest returns): — 

"James J. Cook, deputy provost-marshal; James B. Phillips, deputy provost-marshal; 
James P. Ivirby, special agent; Albert D. Shaw, special agent; Dr. Charles Goodale, assistant 
surgeon. 

"Enrolling officers were hnt per diem employees, and constantly being changed during the 
period of the war, making it impossible to furnish a complete list from the ofticial records at 
this time. Very respectfull}', 

"F. E. Aixsworth, 
" Captain and Asst. -Surgeon U. S. Army." 

THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 

A history of the medical profession, with a personal sketch of the physicians who be. 

longed to it, and who are now members of the Jefferson County Medical Society, 

or are in sympathy with its Code of Ethics, in so far as can be ascertained. 

BY DR. J. MORTIMER CRAWE. 

In February, 1806, the legislature of this state passed a law to incorporate 
state and county medical societies, and repealing all former acts relating to 
the practice of medicine and surgery in this state. Three months after its 
passage, and pursuant to its provisions, some 20 societies were organized, and 
within two years scarcely a county in the state vvas without a regularly incor- 
porated medical society. Under this act a meeting of the physicians of the 
county was held at Watertown, December 17, 1806, and the Jefferson County 
Medical Society was organized. At this meeting there were present, and 
united with the society, the following physicians: — 



172 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Roster of the founders of the original Jefferson County Medical Society, 
1806: Daniel Barney, John Durkee, Eli Eastman, Benjamin Farlie, Hugh 
Henderson, Jabez Kingsbury, Isaiah Massey, Isaac Magoon, David B. Ripley, 
Ozias H. Rawson, James D. Seisco, E'ias Skinner, H. Wilcox. The follow- 
ing ofificers were elected : John Durkee, president ; Daniel Barney, vice- 
president; Hugh Henderson, secretary ; Isaiah Massey, treasurer; Benjamin 
Farlie, Eli Eastman, and Hugh Henderson, censors; Hugh Henderson, del- 
egate to State Society. 

In February, 1807, a State Society was formed at Albany, consisting of 
delegates from the various county societies. 

Hugh Henderson, the fiist representative of the Jefferson County Medical Society to the 
State Society at Albany, is believed to have been a graduate of the College of Physicians and 
Surgeons, of the "Western District of New York, situated at Fairfield, Herkimer County. He 
located at an early day in Rutland Center. His death, within a very few years, cut short a 
life full of promise for the future. He was one of the founders of the old Jefferson County 
Medical Society in 1806, its first secretary, one of the board of censors, and the first delegate 
to the State Society, and must have beeu one of the foiinders of that society, as its first meet- 
ing was in 1807, and it was composed of delegates from the various county societies. He 
probably died soon afterwards, as the records show that, at the meeting of the County Society, 
in 1808, Dr. Henry H. Sherwood was appointed to fill the vacancy of delegate to the State 
Society, caused by his death. He was the first person buried in the Rutland cemetery (on the 
hill opposite the lake), and years afterwards his remains were removed to Brooksi.ie Cemetery, 
of Watertown. Dr. Henderson was supervisor of Rutland in 1808. 

John Durkee, another of the founders and the first president of the Jefferson County 
Medical Society, lived near Champion village, on the road to Great Bend, across the gulf, next 
lot to the cemetery, and nearly opposite the old Baptist Church. Judge Hubbard credits him 
with coming to this town in 1800. Here he resided for a number of years, having a large and 
extensive practice, and was the physician of that country; "and in his day was the oldest and 
best known in the community." That he was much respected by, and stood well in the opin- 
ion of, his fellow citizens, and had their full confidence, is evident from the fact that, in 1811, 
he was appointed, by the governor, judge under the first constitution, and was sent to the 
Assembly in 1812. In November, 1804, he was chosen one of three delegates to discuss the 
site for a county seat, and represented Champion as the possible place. That he had also the 
confidence of his fellow practitioners is apparent from their conferring upon him, at their first 
meeting as a body politic, the honor of being president of the County Medical Society at its 
inauguration. Shortly after the War of 1812-15 he was a partner of Dr. G. P. Spencer, who 
succeeded him. Becoming imbued with the western fever he removed to Terre Haute, Ind., 
where he died. 

Daniel Barney, another founder of the County Society, and its first vice-president, was 
born in Swansea, Bristol County, Mass.. July 2, 1768. He married Abigail Bucklin, of Kent 
County, R. I., and with his wife and son Lowrey came to Little Falls, Herkimer County, N. Y., 
in 1794. He removed to Rutland, this county, in 1802, and from thence moved to Adams vil- 
lage in March, 1803, and finally settled in Henderson, April 7, 1807, where he died May 19, 
1828. He was a prominent man in his day, well remembered and spoken of by the old inhabi- 
tants, and had a large practice. 

Isaiah Massey was a brother of Hart Massey, who was one of the pioneers that settled 
"Watertown in 1800. He was uncle of Solon Massey, the author of A Link in the Chain, which 
gives a description of the early settlement of Jefferson County; also granduncle of Drs. Will- 
iam Penn and Isaiah Massey. He came here from Vermont some time in the fall of 1801. 
Soon after arriving his services were required to dress the ■\\-ounds of a man who had been 
accidently shot; "the first case of surgery and gun-shot wound in his pioneer practice; and 
he was often heard to say that it was the greatest trial his nerves had ever endured";— on horse- 
back and alone, in the night threading his way through the dark and gloomly woods, to see a 
man, whom, from the description given by the messenger, he expected to find dead, but on his 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 1 73 

arrival, to his great relief and joy, be found alive and able to unbolt the door for him, be, 
like many others of tbe profession, learning that in many cases the anticipation was worse 
than the reality. In 1802 be opened an inn, the first one in Watertown. In 1805 be was one 
of nine i^ersons who deeded to the village land now occupied as a public square. In 1806 be 
was secretary of Eastern Light Lodge, No. 136. He was one of the founders of the County 
Society, and its first treasurer. He was born June 2, 1778, and died at Jerseyville, 111.. August 
20, 1820. 

Benjamin Farlie is reported to have come to this county from Lee, Oneida County, and is 
credited by Judge Noadiah Huljbard with being in Champion in the year 1800. We learn, 
also, from Mrs. John A. Sherman, that he came into Rutland about 1803. and was cotemporary 
with Dr. Abel Sherman. He lived in a house then standing near tbe present site of the 
cheese factory, between it and the residence of George Wafi'el. He is also reported to have 
pi-acticed in Sackets Harbor previous to the War of 1812-15; afterwards as practicing in Water- 
town. He joined the County Society in 1806, was censor that year, and was its secretary in 1813. 
Dr. Farlie was a widower, and bad a son, Ichabod, who piacticed with him in Watertown; and 
although his name does not appear on the County Society rolls it is presumed he was a mem- 
ber during the peiiod he remained in this county. There was also a daughter, Arthesa, who 
married Dr. John M. Burton. After his death she married Mr. Mattison, father of Governor 
Mattison, of Illinois. Dr. Farlie and his son were handsome, noble looking men in stature, 
respectively six feet two inches and six feet. They were always neatly and tastily dressed, 
kept fine horses, had a large practice, and were highly respected. When they left Watertown, 
or where they located, is not known. 

Eli Eastman, one of tbe first board of censors, was born in Guilford, Conn., October 3, 
1777. That he received an academic education was very evident, but where, at this late day, 
it is impossible to determine, nor when or where he graduated, or with whom he read medi- 
cine. Mrs. A. P. Sigourney, his daughter, who resides near Watertown, remembers distinctly 
having seen his diploma. He was married at Wetmore, Oneida County, N. Y., September 16, 
1809, and came directly to Adams, where he practiced until liis death, September 16, 1844. It 
is thought he was the first physician pei'manently settled in that town. Tliere is a tradition 
about a Dr. Green, previous to his time, but how long he stayed, where be came from, or went 
to, is not known. Dr. Eastman was highly esteemed, had an extensive practice, and so much 
were his professional services sought after that for the two or three years previous to bis death, 
after he was unable to drive himself, people from the surrounding country having severe 
cases of sickness in their families came in their carriages and took him to their homes, where 
they kept lum until the result was known. He was at the battle of Sackets Harbor in tbe ca- 
pacity of a surgeon. He was again elected censor of the society in 1826. 

Of the seven remaining members, founders of the County Society in 1806, 
no record can be obtained. 

In 1807 there is no record of officers of the society, but that there was a 
meeting is evident from the following, copied from the remnants of the 
journal and roster of members, preserved from the fire of 1849, and in the 
possession of the late Dr. William R. Trowbridge, the last secretary of the 
old society : "Committee appointed to ascertain whether unauthorized per- 
sons were practicing medicine, and if so to prosecute them." Six persons 
were admitted to membership. A notice of each will be found as follows: — 

William Baker, the first physician who settled in Sackets, went there in 1803. He joined 
the County Society in 1807. 

Joshua Beals, Jr., settled in Adams about 1806, and l)ecame a member of the County So- 
ciety in 1807. 

Daniel Brainard, father of O. V. Brainard. came to Watertown from Whitestown, Oneida 
County, about 1805, and married Miss Lorraine Hungerford, sister of Hon. Orville Hunger- 
ford, in 1806. He practiced medicine in Watertown, joined the society in 1807, and died the 
27th dav of Januarv, 1810. 



174 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Joel Dresser practiced in Ellis village about 1805, and was made a member of the society 
in 1807. 

Joseph Green joined the society in 1807; has no other record. 

Isaac Weston was the first physician to permanently locate in Lorraine, abont the year* 
1806. He joined the County Society in 1807, and was its vice-president in 1825. 

Abel Sherman, born in Brimfield, Mass., came to Clinton, Oneida County, N. Y., where- 
he remained a few years, when he moved to Rutland, Jefferson County, in 1803. Ho was the 
grandfather of John A. Sherman. Mrs. J. A. Sherman has in her possession a dictionary with 
his name and a date — 1782 — and a Bible. An entry, on the page for family record, reads as fol- 
lows: "Abel Sherman and Orinda Bicknal was married June 14, 1784, by Rev. John Willard, 
of Stafford, Connecticut." He settled in Rutland on the north side of the South road, next 
fai-m to where John A. Sherman lived, about three-fourths of a mile above Burrville. He built 
a frame house, which was considered a grand affair at that time, and it still stands there. He- 
bought and cleared 220 acres of timbered land, and was the first sheriff of Jefferson County. 
An active, energetic man, the duties devolving upon him in his official capacity, combined 
with tlie fatigue and hardships of his professional life, broke down a naturally strong consti- 
tution, compelling him, for many years previous to his death, to relinquish active practice. 
He was admitted to membership in the County Society in 1807, and died in the summer of 
1835, aged 72 years. 

Eli West, born in Hampton, Washington County, N. Y., July 26, 1792, came into Car- 
thage, May 15, 1816, and was successful in building up a large practice. He was a man 
greatly respected and had a large influence in the community. A volunteer in the War of 1812- 
15, he did good service, and was present at the battle of Plattsburgh. He was member of 
Assembly in 1834 and 1844, and supervisor in 1823-27, 1830-32, and 1840-41. He held the 
office of justice of the peace for a number of years, being appointed to the first term of office 
by Governor De Witt Clinton. He was school commissioner and town superintendent of com- 
mon schools; was also brigade surgeon in the militia, was a member of the board of village 
trustees eight years, six of these being its president, and was made chairman of the first meet- 
ing held to promote the construction of the Black River Canal, and was one of its incorpora- 
tors, April 17, 1832. In 1822 and '24 he was master of Masonic Lodge, No. 146. At the break- 
ing out of the war of the Rebellion he was made president of the first war meeting held in 
Carthage, May 4, 18G1, and took a very decided stand for the government, giving of his own 
means and successfully urging others to subscribe money to aid in the prosecution of the war, 
by supporting the families of volunteers. He greatly rejoiced that he lived to see the close of 
the war and the government's authority sustained. He died June 28, 1866, after a period of 
compulsory retirement from his labors, made necessary through age and infirmities. His- 
funeral was among the largest ever occurring in Carthage, and bore evid3uce of the high re- 
gard in which he was held in the community. Rev. Mr. Stewart preached the funeral sermon, 
and the Masonic fraternity performed the last service. He joined the society in 1807. 

Horatio Orvis was the first practicing physician who located in Le Ray, about 1807. In 
1816 he was one of the two composing the first graduating class of Fairfield Medical College. 
From 1819 to 1825 he was supervisor of his lown, member of Assembb' in 1818, and was- 
elected delegate to the State Society in 1823, and was president of the society in 1829. 

i8o8. — There are no records for this year of the proceedings of the so- 
ciety, except the following : " New members admitted, Henry H. Sher- 
wood and Elisha Matthews. Henry H. Sherwood was elected delegate to 
State Society, to fill vacancy caused by the death of Dr. Hugh Henderson." 

Henry H. Sherwood lived in Rutland, and was, as I am informed by Mrs. Isaac Munson, 
in partnership in mercantile business with her father, Amos Stebbins, and his family physi- 
cian. He was appointed loan commissioner in 1810 and served to 1829; was associate justice 
in 1818; and was appointed, by the governor, county clerk March 5, 1821. He had, no doubt, 
practiced in Rutland previous to 1808, as the first mention of him is in the records of the- 
County Society as being elected delegate to the State Medical Society to fill vacancy caused 
by the death of Dr. Henderson. It is believed that he moved to Watertown about the date of 
his appointment as county clerk, as he served two terms, or six years, in that office. He built 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 1 75 

the brick house, on Washington street, now occupied by Frank Munson. He is reported to 
have been the original inventor of the electric battery now in use by physicians. Moving to 
New York he made a specialty of it. Ho died in that city. He was president of the society in 
1825, and censor in 1826, '27, and '28. Tlie honorary degree of M. D. was conferred upon him 
in 1829 by the Regents of the University. 

Elisha Matthews. — There has been no history of Dr. Matthews obtained. 

1809. — " Committee of six appointed to report the number of quacks and 
unlicensed physicians in the count/ ; admitted Paul Hutchinson." 

Dr. Hutchinson lived on Court street, Watertown, on the site now occupied by the Kirby 
House. In 1813 he represented, as delegate, the County Society at the State Society. In 1815 
he is mentioned in connection with the Whittlesy affair. 

Amasa Trowbridge was born in Pomfret, Windham County, Conn., May 17, 1779. He worked 
on his father's farm in the summer, attending the common schools in the winter season, until 
14 years old. After that he acquired an academic education. At the age of 17 he commenced 
the study of medicine with Dr. Avery Downer, of Preston City, New London County, Conn. 
When 20 years old he was admitted to practice, receiving a diploma from the State Medical 
Society of Connecticut. He then spent a year with Dr. Thomas Hubbard; then moved to 
Lanesboro, Mass., and practiced in company with Dr. Jarvis. He came into this state and 
settled in Trenton, Oneida County, in 1805, entering into company with Dr. Luther Guiteau. 
In 1809 he came to Watertown and was a partner of Dr. Paul Hutchinson. War breaking out 
in 1812 he was commissioned surgeon in the militia of Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence 
counties. Under orders from Gen. Brown he organized hospitals at Sackets Harbor, Cape 
Vincent, and Ogdensburg. and was stationed at Sackets Harbor during the winters of 1812 
and '13. On returning to civil life he was appointed assistant justice, under the first constitu- 
tion, serving from 1815 to 1818, in which last year he was appointed judge. In 1819 he was 
made sheriff. In 1834 he was appointed professor of surgery and medical jurisprudence in 
the Willoughby University, Ohio, where he gave annual lectures of eight weeks. In 1838, 
giving up his practice to his son Amasa. he moved to Paiuesville, Ohio. In 1841 he returned 
to and again settled in Watertown, where he remained until his death, April 11, 1859. He had 
a large and extensive practice, ai-d was known as a bold and skillful surgeon. 

1810. — "Committee reported 19 names of unlicensed physicians; admitted 
as members Isaac S. Wood, Nathan Cheever, Russell Steele, Joshua Barrett, 
Jr., and John M. Henderson." 

Dr. Wood was born in Wilbraham, Mass., January 15, 1779. He is supposed to have 
graduated from Williams College, Mass. He came to Eodman in 1805, where he remained 
until his death in ihe summer of 1849. No record can be found of the others who joined in 
this year. 

181 1. — "New members admitted, Noah Tubbs, Joseph Clary, John Spaf- 
ford, and John Cowen." 

Noah Tubbs practiced in the town of Henderson, residing in the village of Henderson. 
He was a genial man, successful in his practice, and very popular with the community. 
Many stories are related as having their origin with him, both humoi-ous and pithy- 
John Spaft'ord was born at Weatherstield, Vt., February 22, 1786, married February 7, 
1813, at Adams, Jefferson County, N. Y., read medicine at Woodstock, Vt., and is thought to 
have attended lectures there. He came to Adams and commenced practice about 1810. He 
joined the society in 1811, was its president in 1813, and was elected delegate to the State 
Society in 1819 and censor in 1820. He died June 20, 1828. 

John Cowen lived, practiced, and died at Rice's Corners, N. Y. 
Of Joseph Clary we have no record. 

1812. — Isaac Olney, of Brownville, joined the society. 

William Robinson, born at Bennington, Vt., within one and one-half miles of the battle- 
lield, October 23, 1785, studied with Dr, Swift, of Bennington. Of his early education little 
is known. He came to Brownville in 1810, and practiced there until his death, December 1. 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



1826, aged 41 years. He was a surgeon in the War of 1812-15, was associate judge, and justice 
of the peace. He joined the society in 1812, was its president in 1820, and censor in 1826, and 
was the first physician wlio permanently settled in Brownville. Gen. Jacob Brown gave him 
a deed of three acres of land, on tlie corner above the Episcopal Church, as an inducement for 
him to settle there. Dr. Robinson built a house, at present standing on the lot, in which lie 
lived at the date of his death. He had one older brother and three nephews who were 
physicians. 

i8r3 — "John Spafford, president ; Benjamin Farlie, secretary ; and Paul 
Hutchinson, delegate ; admitted, Reuben Goodale." 

Reuben Goodale Mas born in the town of Temple, N. H., April 9, 1783. He attended Ap- 
pleton's School, in his native place, and Oneida Academy, Clinton, N. Y., and commenced the 
study of medicine in 1807 with Dr. White, of Cherry Valley, N. Y. He practiced over 50 years 
in Watertown. In 1819 he was treasurer of the societv, secretarj' and censor in 1820. and was 
elected delegate to the State Society to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Dr. Spaf- 
ford. In 1825 and '26, and from 1840 to 1844, he served again as treasurer, in 1834, '36. '37, 
'39, and '40 he was elected again censor, and in 1840 he was again elected delegate. One of 
his sons, Charles, was a physician. In connection with his practice he, for a time, carried on 
a farm situated on the State road, and was in partnership with Dr. Henry H. Sherwood in the 
drug business. He published the Constellation from December 13, 1830, about nine months. 
This paper, before coming into his possession, was known as the Anti-Masonic Sun. In 
physique Dr. Goodale was tall and spare, active and energetic, pronounced in his opinions, and 
always ready to defend them. He was public spirited, and a friend of education, the standard 
of which he aimed to advance. He died in Watertown, January 26, 1871, 73 years of age. He 
was made a permanent member of the State Society in 1845. 

1814. — Frederick P. Markham (no record) and Crafts P. Kimball ad- 
mitted. 

Crafts P. Kimball, born in Cherry Valley, N. Y., February 14, 1788, attended school at the 
Fairfield Academj', and began the study of medicine in 1802 with Dr. Joseph White. He at- 
tended lectures at Fairfield. He held a license from the Otsego County Medical Society, signed 
by Joseph White, M. D., president, and bearing date January 9, 1810. He came to Rutland in 
1808, and settled on a farm situated on the South road, half a mile above Burr's Mills. He 
built the stone house now occupied by his son, Henry Kimball, where he lived until his death, 
November 7, 1872, aged 84. He was surgeon in Col. Tuttle's regiment and participated in the 
battle of Sackets Harbor. He was president of the society in 1819 and again in 1838. Dr. 
Kimball was of medium height, broad shouldered and portly, high, broad forehead, and deter- 
mination marked his features. He was a good physician, having a sound judgment as evinced 
by his success as a farmer and' jihysician. He was held in high I'espect and looked up to by 
the community, and had a large and extensive practice until within about 10 years of his death, 
when, by reason of taking a severe cold, resulting in chronic bronchitis, he retired from active 
practice. 

1815.—" Admitted E. Dunton." 

Dr. Dunton lived at Plessis, where he practiced for a number of years. He went from 
there to Oswego. He was a very smart and well posted physician and surgeon, and jcJined the 
society in 1815, and was censor in 1819. 

1816. — "Admitted). Marsh and Sydney Houghton; Dr. Amasa Trow- 
bridge elected delegate." There can be found no record of J. Marsh. 

Sidney Houghton moved into Belleville from Marlborough, Vt.. in 1812. He practiced in 
that locality until his death, which occurred in 1840, being about 74 years old. He had a large 
practice, and was greatly respected by those who knew him. 

1817. — "Admitted Samuel Randall and Alpheus S. Green.'' 

Samuel Randall, the first physician in the town and village of Antwerp, came there in 
1808. In 1809 he received the appointment as the first postmastei', which position he held for 
a number of years. 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. I77- 

Alpheus S. Green was a native of Ehode Island, and moved into Perch River in 1812, 
where he practiced 18 years. During this time, in 1826 and '28, he was a member of the As- 
sembly, and in 1823 he was county judge. In 1829 he was appointed postmaster of Watertown, 
and held that olBce 11 years. He was chosen a delegate to the constitutional convention iu 
1846. Dr. Green was elected censor in 1820, '27, and "29, in 1835. '36, "38, and '39, and in 1840, 
and was a delegate to the State Society in 1827 and '36, treasurer in 1829 and '30, and president 
in 1839. He died at Utica in 1851, aged B4. In 1832 the Regents of the University conferred 
upon him the honorary degree of M. D. 

1 8 18. — There were admitted John M. Burton, Alpheus Morse, W. H. Bu- 
chanan, Alfred Ely, Jonathan Sherwood, and Benjamin Cushman. Alpheus 
Morse and Alfred Ely have no record. 

W. H. Buchanan was surgeon in tlie U. S. navy during the War of 1812-15, and was sta- 
tioned duiing this period at tlie naval station at Saekets Harbor. He remained there after the 
close of the war. practicing his profession, and was Ixrgely identified in the improvements being 
made in that village. 

J. B. Burton practiced ia Watertown at an early day. There is no data as to when he 
came here, or where he received his education. He married the daughter of Dr. Benjamin 
Farlie. He built and lived in, until his death, the stenie house No. 134 Main street. Dr. Bur- 
ton was considered a bright man, a gool practitioner, was full of fun, and an inveterate prac- 
tical joker. He was vice-presidmt of the society in 1819. and treasurer in 1820. 

Benjamin Cushman practiced at Rodman, an 1 moved to Fort Wayne. Indiana. 

Jonathan Sherwood was born in Willia nstown, Mass., in 1780. He studied his profession 
under Dr. Willonghby, of Newport, and became the partner of his preceptor, continuing with 
him 11 years at Fairfield. He moved to Champion, where he practiced several years. He then 
went to Turin, where he died April 15, 1829. The following extract is made from Lis obituaiy 
by Dr. Willoughby, president of Fairfield Medical College; — 

" For nearly 30 years Dr. Sherwood pursued the objects of his important calling; priva- 
tions, ordinary ill health or fatigue never kept him from visiting the sick when necessity re- 
quired. Benevolence formed one of the distinguishing tiaits of liis character. His liberality 
was as extensive as his means; his friciidshijis warm and abiding; his piety to God, his useful- 
uess as a citizen and physician, his resitrnatidn to the Divine will, his perfect disinteiestedness, 
and his anient love of truth liave been rarely equalled."' 

1819. — "C. P. Kimball, president; J. B. Burton, vice-president; L. M. 

Davis, secretary ; R. Goodale, treasurer; and H. H. Sherwood, J. B. Burton, 

L. M. Davis, E. Dunton, J. N. Clark, censors, were elected at this meeting. 

Drs. Burton and Davis were directed to address the annual meeting, or be 

fined two dollars. A tax of one dollar was imposed on each member. All 

periodicals, property of the society, directed sold. Semi-annual meeting 

ordered. Admitted Joseph N. Clark, Dr. Nelson, L. M. Davis, and Ambrose 

B. Page." Of Joseph FL Claik and L. M. Davis there is no record, except 

their be'ng elected censors this year. Of Ambrose B. Page we have obtained 

no record, but think he practiced a number of years at the Great Bend. 

David Nelson was born in Philadelphia, Pa., and was a surgeon's mate in the U. S. navy in 
tlie War of 1812-15. He came into Brownville about 1814, and was married to Sophia Patrick,. 
December 16, 1816. He lived there until his death in 1830. In his day he was considered the 
leading physician in that section. 

1820. — " Dr. Spafiford resigned as delegate ; Ira A. Smith, Rufus S. VVaite, 
Ralph Rogers, and Oliver Brewster admitted as members. Dr. J. Spafford 
to give dissertation at a future rneeting, or pay two dollars fine ; this meeting 
to be held at the house of Isaac Lee, Watertown, the last Tuesday in Feb- 
ruary. The following officers were elected : William Robinson, president;. 



178 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



H. H. Sherwood, vice-president; Reuben Goodale, secretary; J. B. Burton, 
treasurer ; J. B. Burton, Reuben Goodale, H. H. Sherwood, John Spafford, 
and A. S. Green, censors ; Reuben Goodale, delegate." Rufus S. Waite has 
no record. 

Ealph Rogers, born at Acwortli, N. H., December 25, 1792, attended lectures at Fairfield, 
and graduated from that college. He practiced 12 years in Antwerp and 38 years in Water- 
town, and died February 21, 1872, aged 79 years. He was a genial, pleasant man, kind and 
benevolent to the poor, and exhibited the spirit of his Master more by deeds than words; a 
good friend and kind neighbor. He was censor from 1839 to 1841, and supervisor of Antwerp 
in 1828. 

Oliver Brewster came into Theresa from Fowler, St. Lawrence County, about 1841, and 
practiced in that village until prostrated with illness, which terminated his life about 1853. 

Ira A. Smith studied medicine with his brother, Calvin L. Smith, at Little Falls, N. Y., at- 
tended lectures at Fairfield, and graduated from Fairfield College. For a time he was engaged 
in mercantile pursuits in connection with his profession. He died at Evans Mills in 1863. He 
was treasurer of the County Society in 1828, and supervisor of Le Eay in 1836, and was one of 
the trustees of the First Associate Congregational Society, organized March 3, 1823. He had 
a son, Sidney A., who studied medicine with him, who was also a merchant and physician, and 
who died January 1, 1864. Dr. Smith was a very cordial, pleasant man, fond of telling stories, 
and full of jokes; never refused a sick call, and was a poor collector, but a man of wonderful 
tact and discrimination. He died of cancer of the stomach. The whole community attended 
his funeral, the greater part of whom were in tears. 

1821. — Fifteen members answered to their names. " Admitted James A. 
Wells," no record. "Joseph H. Bagg " lived at Rodman, and was one of 
the censors in 1828 and '30. 

1822. — Admitted James Brooks, "the first physician in Theresa, who 
came there in 1822, practiced about one year, and died in 1823." 

Ithemer B. Crawe, a native of Connecticut, was born at Enfield, Hartford County, in that 
state, June 11, 1792. In 1802, when he was nine y^ars old, the family moved to Hamilton, 
Madison County, N. Y. He worked on his father's farm siuiimers and went to the district 
school winters until be was 19. In August, 1811, he injured himself by overwork in the wheat- 
field. From this time until 1813 he was under medical treatment. Being able to walk and 
ride about he turned his attention to botanical pursuits, and so great an enthusiast did he be- 
come that he has been known to ride long distances in pursuit of some particular plant. From 
his youth he was noted for the interest he took in anything belonging to the animal or veg- 
etable kingdom. During this time he made a large collection, arranging and classifying them, 
laying the foundation for that acknowledged proficiency in botanical research he afterwards 
attained. His physicians advising him to visit the seashore he went to Block Island, in Rhode 
Island, and returning taught school four months in Earlville, Madison County, N. Y. In 
April, 1815, he went to Augusta, Oneida County, where he taught a district school three terms, 
in all 17 months, and from November, 1816, to April, 1817, he had charge of a school at Clin- 
ton, in the same county. His health again faihng he went to New Bedford, Mass., and sailed 
from there, about the first of May, for the Grand Banks of New Foundland, on a fishing voy- 
age. After making two voyages, his health being restored, in October he started for home, 
and on his way stopped at Albany, where he engaged to teach a select school. Here he stayed 
two terms of 12 weeks each, and returning home in March, 1818, he entered the office of Dr. 
Hastings, where he remained, pursuing his medical studies, about two years. Through the 
kindness of his preceptor he was enabled to indulge in his favorite pursuit, having the use of 
a plot of ground, where he raised many rare plants, among them being a bed of poppies, from 
which he obtained a quantity of opium. He next studied and worked in the laboratory with 
Dr. Noyes, professor of chemistry in Hamilton College. Connected with the college was a 
large cabinet of minerals, to which he had free access, and here, no doubt, his love of research 
in this branch of the natural sciences received additional stimulus, which never abated; for at 
his death his cabinet of minerals attained such size that it weighed eight tons. During the 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 1 79 



session of 1821 and '22 he continued his studies at the College of Physicians and Surgeons of 
New York city. Coming home in the spring of 1822 he entered into partnership with Dr. 
Bissel, of Clinton, with whom lie remained some six months, when he moved to Watertown, 
N. Y., where he married Charlotte F. Mortimer. After practicing here a number of years he 
■was invited by some of the prominent citizens of Ogdensburg to locate there. Accordingly 
he went there, remaining about three years, and left to take charge of some lead mining op- 
erations at Lubec, Maine. This proved a failure, and he returned home and moved to Poutiac, 
Mich., where he resided some three years. 

Sickness of himself and family obliged him to return to Watertown, where he continued 
to reside until his death. He discovered and described a number of new plants, one of which 
bears his name, Carex Crawei. or Crawe's Sddge. His friend Prof. Grey, of Cambridge, Mass., 
requested him to procure for him some rare plants which are found on the marsh at Perch 
Lake, and are in their greatest perfection about the first of June. Having patients on the 
oppoi<ite side of the lake he went there to see them June 3, 1847. After visiting them he 
crossed the lake in a leaky boat, the only one obtainable at that time, taking a small pan to 
bail with, and accompanied by Enoch Eddy, a large fleshy man, and William C. Gould, a 
young man, the son of one of his patients. They crossed the lake safely, and he made a large 
collection of the desirofl specimens, which he arranged in a large book, with heavy, strapped 
covers. About 5 p. m. they started to return. The wind having freshened since morning the 
waves were rolling, causing the boat to strain and leak badly. When about 20 rods from 
shore it became evident that the boat must sink. The Doctor, rising in the boat, threw his 
book as far towards the shore as possible, and, taking out his watch, said, '"It is just 6 o'clock; 
this boat will sink in a few minutes. Mr. Eddy, you stick to the boat; Gould and I can swim." 
When the boat sunk he caught and held up Mr. Eddy, turned over the boat, and helped him 
onto it, and he soon floated near the shore. With Mr. Gould he started for land. The 
former was ahead and reached the shore with difficulty, and turning to look back he saw the Doc- 
tor's feet sticking out of the water. He was an exceedingly fine, powerful swimmer, and must 
have had cramps in his shoulders caused by the extra exertion he was obliged to make, en- 
cumbered as he was with clothing and long, heavy boots made to wade through wet, marshy 
grounds. When the news reached his home some of his Masonic friends started out that 
night and began dragging the lake early the next morning. His body was found some six 
rods from shore, in about seven feet of water. Thus was he cut down in the vigor of his 
manhood. 

Dr. Crawe was widely known among men of science, both in this country and in Europe, as 
was evinced by his extensive correspondence and exchanges of specimens, by the notices of liis 
death that appeared in scientific journals, and by the resolutions of respect and condolence 
offered and passed by the Count}' and State Medical societies, and by the Masonic order. He 
enjoyed a large practice, was well and favorably known, and his lohs at the time, and in the 
manner it happened, was a great shock to his family, and deeply felt by the community in which 
he lived. He was a prominent Mason, which fraternity attended his funeral in a body, and 
with the rest of his friends and neighbors testified their respect for his memory, sympathizing 
with his family in their great afdiction, and manifested their own sorrow and regret at his 
loss. He became a member of the County Society in 1822; was its secretary in 1825; censor in 
1826, '28, '29, '30, '34, and '41; president in 1827 and 1842; and delegate to the State Society in 
1834 and 1844. In 1846 the honorary degree of Doctor of Medicine was conferred upon him 
by the Regents of the University on the recommendation of the State Society. 

1823. — " Horatio Orvis, delegate; Walter Webb and E. Mayhew Adams 
admitted." 

Walter Webb was born in Hoosick, Piensselaer County, N. Y., in 1795. The family moved 
to Lee Center, Oneida County, and thence to Perch River, near the old stone Baptist Church. 
He was educated in the common schools of Brownville, and taught school at Moscolonge. 
While teaching he studied medicine with Dr. Alpheus S. Green, who then resided at Perch 
River, and whose sister Sabina he afterwards married. He later studied with Dr. Amasa 
Trowbridge, of Watertown. Dr. Webb then went to Fairfield and studied in the office of Dr. 
Willoughby, who afterwards became his uncle by mai'iiage. Dr. Willoughby's sister was 
Dr. Green's mother, and Dr. Webb married her daughter. He graduated at Fairfield Medical 



l8o JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



College in 1823. and settled in Adams, where he ppent nearlj- all his life. lu 1868 he went to 
live with his son Edward 8., and moved with him to Washington. N. J., where he died at the 
age of 93. He always refused all public trusts, saying his own business demanded all his 
attention. In connection with his practice he carried on an extensive drug business. He was 
naturally poetical and composed many pieces; and although fond of jokes and stoaes lie was 
a devout member of the Presbyterian Church, whose pulpit he often supplied. He was a fine 
temperance lecturer and a strong Abolitionist at an early period. Dr. Webb was president 
and censor in 1827. 

E. Mayhew Adams is thought to have come from Massachusetts, and located in Smithville 
about 1825. He joined the County Society in 1828, was elected vice-president in 1834, censor in 
1835 and '36, and moved to Cazenovia, and from there to Chicago, 111., where he died. He was 
a man of fine address, and a religious, cultivated, and educated gentleman. 

1824. — "Admitted William S. Bates. ' 

William S. Bates was born May 22, 1793, a native of Massachusetts, and moved with 
his fathtr's family to Lowville, Lewis County, N. Y., about 1803. Besides the common schools 
he attended the Lowville Academy, studied medicine under the supervision of Drs. S. Miller 
and Perry at that place, and afterwards with Dr. Charles Squires, of Denmark. His license to 
practice was granted by the censors of the Lewis County Medical Society, September 12, 1821. 
After practicing a year or two at Denmark he moved, in 1823, to Pamelia Four Corners, and 
remained there until 1831, when he went to Lowville, where he practiced until April, 1836, 
when he went to Copenhagen, remaining at that place until September 22, 1845, at which time 
he came to South Rutland (Tylerville), Jeff^rson County, where he remained until he died, 
June 19, 1859. He has a son, N. W. Bates, M. D., practicing in Central Square, Oswego 
County. 

1825. — "There were elected H. H. Sherwood, president; I. Weston, 
vice-president ; I. B. Crawe, secretary ; R. Goodale, treasurer. Seven mem- 
bers answered to their names; tax ordered to be collected from each practic- 
ing physician, not members, in six months ; committee appointed to draft 
new by-laws, consisting of Drs. A. Trowbridge, E. Adams, and I. B. Crawe." 

1826. — "There were elected Alfred Ely, president ; A. B. Page, vice-pres- 
ident ; A. Trowbridge, secretary ; R. Goodale, treasurer ; A. Trowbridge, 
H. H. Sherwood, William Robinson, Eli Eastmxn, and I. B. Crawe, censors. 
Fifteen members answered to their names ; collected from members and' 
non-members 25 dollars and 75 cents; William I. Fisk, Charles Orvis, and 
Caleb Woodard admitted." There is no record given of Drs. Orvis and 
Woodard, except that Dr. Orvis was in the Assembly in 1830. Dr. Fisk was 
treasurer in 1835-36. " Hiram Mills and Lowry Barney were also admit- 
ted. Dr. Trowbridge gave a dissertation on remittent fever. A prize of 
$10 for best essay on hemorrhage in all its forms, medically and surgically, 
with the treatment." 

Lowry Birney was born in Rhode Island in 1793. His preceptor was his father, Dr. 
Daniel Barney, with whom he practiced in Henderson, and resided in that village. He was 
graduated in 1820 or '22 from Fairfield Medical College. He was a member of the State Medi- 
cal Societv, and was president of Fairfield Medical College. Dr. Birney was a member of the 
legislature and served as justice of the peace in the town of Henderson. He was vice-presi- 
dent of the County Society in 1842. 

Hiram Mills, born at Ransom, N. Y., July 25, 1797, married September 6, 1825. He was 
educated at the common and select schools, and is supposed to have graduated at Fairfield. He 
first settled at Plessis, in the town of Alexandria, about 1826, where he remained two years, 
when he moved to Brownville, where he stayed some four years, a portion of the time being in 
partnership with Dr. A. VV. Gray. From here he went to Granville, Ohio, and practiced there- 
a number of years, when he went to St. Louis, Mo. He died May 3, 1881, at Montreal, Canada., 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 



1827. — "Elected Walter Webb, president; I. B. Crawe, vice-president; 
H. Mills, secretary; Ira A. Smith, treasurer ; A. S. Green, A. Trowbridge, 
I. B. Crawe, H. H. Sherwood, and Walter Webb, censors ; Alpheus S. Green, 
delegate. Dr. I. B. Crawe, A. Trowbridge, and R. Goodale to investigate 
state of finances ; no essay offered on hemorrhage ; same prize offered. Com- 
mittee of award : Drs. Sherwood, Crawe, Trowbridge, R. Goodale, and A. S. 
Green." 

182S. — "There were elected A. Trowbridge, president; Samuel Tucker, 
vice-president ; Hiram Mills, secretary ; Ira A. Smith, treasurer; I. B. Crawe, 
P. Maxwell, J. H. Bagg, H. H. Sherwood, A. W. Gray, censors. Admitted 
G. S. Sackett, Peletiah Dwight, H. W. Bushnell, Philip Maxwell, John D. 
Davison, Almon Pitcher, E. M. Adams, A. W. Gray, William J. Sikes, Isaac 
Jenks, Samuel Wetmore, Foster Dexter, John P. Johnson, Converse J. John- 
son, Caleb Preston, O. W. Cushman, H. H. Hills, Elkanna French, Abner 
Benton, D. S. Kimball, Ira Wright, Samuel Tucker, David Dickison, Caleb 
Corp, Gordon P. Spencer, and Azariah Jones. Total present, 37. The old 
committee on by-laws was discharged, and Drs. Goodale, Trowbridge, and 
Crawe appointed." No records are found of Drs. Corp, Sackett, Maxwell, 
Almon Pitcher, E. M. Adams, Preston, French, and Jenks. 

Samuel Wetmore gracluatecl at Fairfield in 1826, Joined the County Society in 1828, prac- 
ticed at Adams, and moved West in 1875. 

A. W. Gray lived at Brownville, and was a f)artner of Dr. Hiram Mills in 1828. He was 
censor in 1829 and 1830. 

Orlando W. Cushman, who was born in Rutland County, Vt.. September 7, 1794, graduated 
at Castleton, Vt., about 1815, and came into this county in 1816. It is thought that he first 
settled in Rodman, where his Virother Benjamin, a physician, resided. He moved to Log 
Mills, now La Fargeville, where he built the first log house. He practiced there until his death, 
February 5, 1860. 

Gordon P. Spencer was born at Salisbury, Litchfield County, Conn. He was educated under 
the supervision of Rev. Joseph Grossman, of his native town, and Ammi L. Robbins, of Nor- 
folk. He entered Williams College in 1807, graduating from that institution with honorB, and 
began the study of medicine with Dr. North, of Goshen, concluding with the celebrated Dr. Lee, 
of New London, and obtaining his diploma from the Medical Society of New London in 1812. 
War with Great Britain having been declared, he sought and obtained a commission as surgeon 
from the Secretary of War, General Armstrong, and was orderedto report for duty to the colonel 
of the 11th Inf. Regt., and served with them until the close of the war. He was actively engaged 
in 1814, during the campaign in Canada, was present at and participated in the bloody battles 
of Lundy's Lane, Chippewa, and the blowing up of Fort Erie. Soon after this latter catastrophe 
the army retired to winter quarters and he was detailed to the hospital at Sackets Harbor. 
Peace having been declared, and his services being no longer required. Dr. Spencer, on his 
way home, passing through Champion, was called in by Dr. Durkee to assist in dressing the leg 
of a man which had been crushed. He arranged with the Doctor for a partnership, and began 
practice with him. He had an iron constitution, indefatigable in the pursuit of his pi'ofes- 
sional duties, and rode on horseback by day and by night, fording streams, with his clothes 
strapped to his horse's head, as I have heard him relate it. In pursuing his extensive and ex- 
tending practice, as long as his health would permit, he was called to visit patients ajid in 
council, in both medical and surgical cases, into Lewis, Oneida, Oswego, and St. Lawrence 
counties, and Canada, riding one horse over 20 years. In 1854 he was attacked bj' a malignant 
congestive fever, and it was about four months before he could resume his practice. Finding 
his health was so much impaired as to prevent his attending upon his numerous professional 
engagements, he concluded to change his residence, and moved into Watertown in ihe summer 
12* 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



of 1857, and here he continued to reside until his death, from heart disease, March 25, 1859. 
He was elected vice-president of the society in 1830. I knew him well, and can testify to his 
urbanity, kindness of heart, skill, hoiiesty of purpose, and devotion to his professional duties; 
never halting or faltering until all who suffered and called upon him for aid had received his 
ministering care. 

Converse J. Johnson, born in Ellington, Conn., January 26, 1764, moved from tliat state 
to Enfield, N. H., where lie practiced medicine several years. He then went to Charlestowu, 
N. Y., remaining there about one year, when he moved to Champion in 1807. In 1808, havmg 
purchased 244 acres of land near Champion Peak, he built a log house and moved his family 
into it. Part of this tract is still owned by his son, Orin O. Johnson. Dr. Johnson had a large 
and extensive practice, which he maintained for about 30 years. He was prominent in town 
and county affairs. 

John P. Johnson, son of Dr. Converse J. Johnson, was born at Enfield, N. H.. March 27, 
1794. He studied medicine with his father, and practiced with him a few years, when he 
moved into Champion village, where he resided until his death, March 14, 1857. 

Henry H. Hills formerly practiced at Chauniont. His iiealth failing he went to live in 
Champion with his brother-in-law. Dr. J. P. Johnson, where he died of consumption about 
July, 1854 or '55. 

Peletiah Dwighff was born in Somers, Conn., January 14, 1785. His education was 
acquired in the common schools of Vermont, and in 1814 he began reading medicine with Dr. 
Converse Johnson, of Champion. He received a diploma from the Madison County Medical 
Society, dated at Eaton, March 11, 1821, which is now in the possession of his son, D. A. 
Dwight, of Adams. For 60 years he practiced medicine in Henderson, and died of old age, at 
Adams, December 12, 1882, after an illness of only 17 hours. Well and faithfully had he per- 
formed his alloted task, almost to the last being called on in important cases, at the age of 
over 90. He united with the County Medical Society in 1828, and was commissioner and in- 
spector of common schools over 14 years. 

D. S. Kimball practiced at Sackets Harbor for a number of years, after the war, and was 
for a time examining surgeon for pensions. He embraced homeopathy in his latter days, and 
died at Sackets Harbor some few years ago. 

Azariah Jones came from the Eastern states about 1830, and settled in Ellisburgh, where he 
practiced until about 1860, when he moved to Rochester, where he died. 

Abuer Benton, born May 16, 1786, began the study of medicine under Dr. Anable, of 
Cayuga County, N. Y. He first located at Fabius, Onondaga County, where he practiced 10 
years, when he moved to the Ox Bow, and in 1819 was the first postmaster in that place. 
Some years afterwards he is said to have attended lectures in Philadelphia, Pa. He joined the 
Jefferson County Medical Society in 1828, and was also a member of the Masonic fraternity. 

William J. Sikes was born December 30, 1799, it is thought at Fairfield, Herkimer County, 
N. Y. He attended Fairfield Academy, studied with Dr. Reuben Goodale, and joined tlia 
County Society in 1828. He was secretary in 1834, censor in 1836, and again secretary in 1837, 
'39, and '40. He died September 27, 1872, on Franklin street, Watertown, aged 72 years and i 
nine months. He was much respected as an honest, upright man, a good physician, and 
kind and attentive to his patients. 

Foster Dexter, about 1825, was one of the teachers in the old academy which stood back 
of, and a little to the north of, the First Presbyterian Church. He also gave lectures on chem- 
istry in the hall of the IMansion House, also known as Gilson's tavern. Here, among other 
experiments, he administered nitrus oxide, commonly called laughing gas, to the boys, much 
to the edification of the audience. He was one of the first vestrymen of Trinity Church, 
of Watertown, being elected May 31, 1828, at its legal organization. While here he studied 
medicine with Dr. Amasa Trowbridge, and probably settled at Adams, as he was one of the in- 
corporators of the Adams Libraiy, May 31, 1831. 

John D. Davison, born in one of the central counties of this state in June, 1793, read 
medicine with Dr. Holmes, at Little Falls, N. Y., and was licensed by the Herkimer County 
Society, May 23, 1822. He first practiced in Pamelia, coming to Theresa in 1823, where he con- 
tinued to practice until his death, September 22, 1865, aged 72 years. His death was the re- t 
suit of apoplexy, with which he was stricken while returning from visiting a patient. He was i'| 
supervisor of Theresa in 1829 and in 1836, and belonged to the Masonic order. . I! 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 1 83 

David B. Dickerson, father of Hannibal S. Dickerson, practiced for some years at Sackets 
Harbor, and moved to Adams Center, wbei-e he was doing a lai'ge business at the time of bis 
death, in 1848, aged 69 years. 

Samuel Tucker practiced medicine and kept the hotel at Rutland Center. He was a good 
and successful physician. 

H. W. Busbnell, born at Fairfield, Herkimer County, N. Y., in 1799, began the study of 
medicine in 1818. and graduated from Fairfield Medical College about 1821. He practiced in 
his native place for some years, and at La Fargeville until 1850, then at Cape Vincent for 15 
years, and died there in 1856. He joined the County Medical Society in 1828, and turned 
homeopathist in 1854. 

Ira Wright, it is thought, came from Waterford, Rensselaer County, N. Y., and settled in 
Watertown about 1834. He lived on Stone street, in the stone house now occupied as an office 
by Dr. llexford. 

1829. — " At this meeting there were elected Horatio Orvis, president ; 
R. Kinney, vice president; Richard Clark, secretary; Alpheus S. Green, treas- 
urer; A. Trowbridge, I. B. Crawe, A. S. Green, C. Burge, and A. W. Gray, 
censors. The Code of Medical Ethics and by-laws reported and adopted. 
Admitted as members Drs. La Mont Bagg, Caleb Burge, Jesse Ayers, James 
K. Bates, Richard Clark, Henry J. Munson, and Alva Murdock." Of La 
Mont Bagg nothing can be learned. 

R. Kinney, elected vice-president this year, appears for the first time in the records of the 
society. He lived and practiced at Mannsville, and died about 1870, some 75 years old. 

Caleb Burge, a physician and clergyman, lived for some years in Rutland, and died at 
"Warsaw, N. Y., in 1838. 

Jesse Ayers, born in Bndgewater, Vt., November 19, 1801. attended the common schools 
at Watertown, N. Y., and began the study of medicine about 1826 or '27 with Drs. Mills and 
Gray, of Brownville. He attended lectures at Fairfield in 1828 and '29, graduating in the lat- 
ter year. Locating in Brownville he practiced there over 29 years, and was supervisor of that 
-town when he died, October 24, 1858. He was elected one of the censors in 1837 and '38, and 
trustee of the village in 1838, '48, and '53. 

James K. Bates. — The following is taken from a sketch of Dr. Bates, written by his brother- 
in-law, Dr. Massey, of Brownville: — 

" The late Dr. James K. Bates was born in Killingly, Conn., on the 24th day of June, 1806, 
and died in Watertown. N. Y., June 30, 1872, in the 66th year of his age. His mother was a 
sister of Jason Fairbanks, Esq., of this city. His earlv life was sjjent on a rough, stony Con- 
necticut farm till he was nearly 18 years old. He bad the advantage of a good common school, 
in the district in which his father resided, and made the most of his opportunities. He de- 
veloped such proficiency in his studies that his father decided to give him a collegiate educa- 
tion; with this in view he was sent to a preparatory academy at Monson, Mass. During his 
first year at Monson his father died. This made it necessary for him to go home. Not long 
after the death of his father his uncle, Jason Fairbanks, of this city, went to Connecticut to 
look after the afl'airs of his family, and while there had some intimations that James would 
like to be a physician. Just as his Uncle Fairbanks was about to start for home again he said 
to James: ' So you want to be a doctor, do you? ' ' I have sometimes thought I would,' he re- 
plied. ' Well, go home with me,' his uncle said, 'and I will see what I can do for you.' Ac- 
cordingly he came to Watertown. and entered his name as a student of medicine in the office 
■of the late Amasa Trowbridge. 

" The next winter he taught school at the center of the town. He soon went to Fairfield, 
Herkimer County, and continued his studies in the office of Dr. Sherwood, paying his way by 
taking charge of the postoffice. In 1830 he attended medical lectures at the Fairfield Medical 
College. He, with three others, took a room, boarding tliemselves, doing their own cooking, 
etc.. at an expense of six shillings a week each, all told. One of this number was Jesse Ayers, 
of Brownville; another Dr. K. Hannahs, of Watertown. His economical mode of living gave 
him obstinate dyspepsia, and before the close of his second course he left, sick, poor, and dis- 
couraged, and came back to Watertown. Regaining his health somewhat he took the village 
school at Brownville, and began practice with Dr. Gray.. He was soon after licensed to practice 
medicine by the County Medical Society, and practiced under this license until 1840, when he 
received an honorary degree of M. D. from the Medical College of Castleton, Vt. In February, 
1831, he married Miss Serena L. Massey, of Watertown, and for 20 years practiced in Brown- 
ville. Early in his business life he took great pains to help young men who wished to study 
medicine. Among his students were William A. Wood, now of Wisconsin; David Hunter, of 



184 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Sackets Harbor; Levi Jerome, of Wisconsin; George Brown, Jr., of New Jersey: I. B. Massey,. 
of Sandusky, Ohio; Oscar Earl; E. Sill, of Watertown; Dr. Sloat; Dr. Bingham, of Rome; A. M. 
Shew, of the Insane Asylum of Middleton, Mass.; and many others. His house was my home 
from the time I was nine years old until I commenced business for myself, as his junior pai-t- 
ner. He boarded many of his students, doing them many kindnesses. He never took, to my 
knowledge, a dollar for board or tuition, except that while in Brownville he was postmaster, 
and his students would assist in taking charge of the ofdce. He assisted several of his students- 
through their lectures, and helped them to horse and equipage after graduating, taking his. 
pay in small sinns as they could earn it. 

"Dr. Bates was a man of no ordinary mind and faculties, and wherever he sought to make 
his influence felt he was a recognized leader. He was a man of flue presence and good address,, 
quiet and reserved in his manners, but dignified and always the gentleman ; scrupulously neat 
in his person and dress, and as pure in his mind and manners. In 1818 he moved to Water- 
town, where he took a good pos'tion. very soon working intf) a large and lucrative practice. 
To this his best energies were given for 10 or 12 years. He was an active politician, and in 
1861 was elected inspector of state prisons, which position he held for six years. On retiring 
from this office he accepted an appointment as medical director of the Empire State Life 
Insurance Co., and continued in it until his death. He was also for many years a director and 
vice-president of the National Union Bank. Dr, Bates was a good financier and business man,. 
without being hard or exacting to the poor. He was a good collector and accumulated a 
handsome property. He was an active, earnest Christian, and a liberal supporter of every 
enterprise looking to the good of others; was president of the Medical Society in 1837, vice- 
president in 1836, and censor in 1842-44."' 

Henry J. Munson, a brother of Dr. Isaac Munson, practiced some years at Evans Mills, 
when he sold out to his brother and moved to Texas, and died there. 

Richard Clark, born at Mauheim, Herkimer County, N. Y., December 3, 1805, was edu- 
cated at the common schools at Watertown and at Lowville Academy. He graduated at Fair- 
field, February 3, 1829, and settled in Watertown, where he practiced about four years, and 
was a partner of Dr.Amasa Trowbridge, April 1, 1833, he received a commission as assistant 
surgeon in the U. S. ai'my. He died at Tallahassee, Florida, Januaiy 29, 1839. 

Alva Murdock, born at Townshend, Vt., May 21, 1803, began the study of medicine about 
1825. and attended lectures at Pittsfield, Mass., between 1825 and '30, in which latter year he 
graduated. He practiced in Philadelphia, N. Y., for 40 years, at Rensselaer Falls, N. Y., five- 
years, and died at the latter place October 7, 1875. 

1830. — "P. Maxwell, president ; G. P. Spencer, vice-president ; Richard 
Clark, secretary; Alpheus S. Green, treasurer; censors: I. B. Crawe, C. 
Burge, A. VV. Gray, and Ira Wright. New members admitted : George 
Green and Stephen Seymour. A central committee of five, and one from 
each town in the county, was appointed to take a topographical survey of 
the county. Appropriated $5 to the State Society, and $26 for 400 copies 
of the by-laws, etc. The central committee above mentioned to consist of 
Drs. Trowbridge, Crawe, Goodale, Wright, and Green ; committee at large: 
Drs. Maxwell, Bushnell, Gray, Bales, Orvis, Burge, West, Bagg, Kimball,. 
Carrier, Davison, Rogers, Adams, Dexter, Kinney, and Murdock." 

Of James Green there is no record. 

Stephen Seymour was a brother-in-law of Dr. E. M. Adams, and his successor at Smith- 
ville, where he practiced a few years, when he moved to Rome, N. Y., and thence to Chicago, 
111., where he died. 

183 1. — There is no list of officers this year, except Richard Clark, delegate; 
Soranus W. Hunt, Aaron Sumner, Samuel J. Gaines, and Jonathan Ellis, 
admitted. 

Of Drs. Hunt and Sumner we have no record. 

Samuel J. Gaines came to Jefferson County from Connecticut, and first settled at Theresa 

about 1823, where he remained a short time, and some time about 1825 or '26 he moved to I 

Sackets Harbor. He practiced there until 1848, and after that date in the towns of Hendersoik p|j 

and Ellisburgh. i 

Jonathan Ellis, born in Rhode Island in 1806, studied medicine with Dr. Alpheus S. Green. •I 

at Perch River, and practiced some years in Clayton, when he went West. ' 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 185 

1832. — There is no record of a meeting this year. 

1833. — Record of officers wanting. Admitted as member, W. H. Wiser, 
of whom we have no record. "A prize of $io was offered for an essay on 
ophthalmia and gastro enteritis following confinement." 

1834. — "A. Trowbridge, president ; E. M. Adams, vice-president ; William 
J. Sikes, secretary; Ira Wright, treasurer; censors: Ira Wright, A. Trow- 
bridge, R. Goodale, I. B. Crawe, and Eli West ; Ithemer B. Crawe, delegate 
to State Medical Society. Admitted^ Isaac Munson. A committee consist- 
ing of Dr. Crawe, chairman, and Drs. Goodale and Dexter, to memorialize 
the legislature on the subject of conferring degree of M. D. by medical 
colleges." 

"Isaac Munson was liorn in the town of Salisbury, Herkimer Coimty, N. Y., March 4. 1812. 
His youth was spent working on bis father's farm vacations, and in attending the district 
school when in session, until he was 19, when be left home to become a student at Fairfield 
Academy. After completing bis academic course be entered the College of Physicians and 
Surgeons at that place, graduating therefrom in January, 1834. Soon after graduating, hav- 
ing purchased the interest of his brother, Henry J. Munson, he located at Evans Mills as the 
partner of Dr. Ira Smith, where he remained three years. May 24, 1836, be was married to 
Miss Cornelia Stebbins. of Rutland, and in the following year be located in that town. In the 
winter of 1839 be attended another course of lectures at Geneva Medical College, N. Y. He 
continued active practice until November, 1849, when, as the Democratic candidate, he was 
elected county clerk. This making a change of residence necessary he moved to Water- 
town, January 1, 1850. In March, 1853, the organization of the Agricultural Insurance Co. 
was perfected, and be was chosen one of its directors and its vice-president. It was then lo- 
cated at Evans Mills, Ijut was soon moved to Watertown, and Dr. Munson was made its secre- 
tary and manager. For a number of years be continued the practice of his profession in 
connection with bis duties to the company, but in course of time it became evident that his 
whole energies must be engrossed in looking afier the interests of the company, and be re- 
luctantly gave up bis practice. It may be truly said of Dr. Munson that by his genial and 
courteous manners, bis sound common sense, and bis intelligent and ready reasoning powers, 
he commanded the respect and esteem of his cotemporaries. Broad and Catholic in sprit, 
generous and confiding in bis friendships, be will long be remembered by a large circle of 
companions and friends."' 

1835. — "S. Houghton, president ; J. P. Johnson, vice-president; Azariah 
Jones, secretary ; William J. Fisk, treasurer ; censors : A. S. Green, A. B. 
Page, Azariah Jones, E. M. Adams, and Samuel Gaines. Twenty-six mem- 
bers answered to their names. Admitted to membership Charles W. East- 
man, William A. Wood, and Abraham Hawn." 

Charles W. Eastman, a son of Eli Eastman, was born in Adams, April 21, 1811, and re- 
ceived his education at the common schools of that town and at Belleville Academy. He 
studied with his father and graduated at Fairfield in 1835. He then settled at Medina, Ohio, 
and married there. His wife dying in 1837 be came to Belleville and was a partner of Dr. 
Houghton. Here be remained a few years, and in 1843 married Dr. Fisk's daughter, of Ellis 
village. He moved there and practiced in that place a number of years, when he went West, 
and ultimately joined the army. After the war he came to Watertown, where he died Janu- 
ary 9, 1879, aged 68 years. 

William A. Wood, born in Vermont in 1805, was a student of Dr. Bates, at Brown- 
ville, about 1830. In 1835 he settled at Cbaumont, where he stayed about one year, and 
moved to Dexter, where he practiced until 1844. He then moved to Emerald Grove. Eock 
County, Wis., and thence to Sauk Countj', where he now resides. 

Abraham Hawn practiced in Hodman from 1834 to 1840, and moved to Syracuse. He was 
a man much respected. 

1836. — "Foster Dexter, president ; J. K. Bates, vice-president; Azariah 
Jones, secretary ; William J. Fisk, treasurer ; Ira Wright, William J. Sikes, 
E. M. Adams, R. Goodale, and H. S. Dickerson, censors. Twelve members 
answered to their names. Admitted as member Hannibal S. Dickerson." 



1 86 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Hannibal S., sou of David S. Dickerson, and father of DeEsting, was boi-n in January, 
1808. He was granted a diploma by the Medical Society of the College of Physicians and 
Surgeons at Fairfield, December 25, 1826, and July 26, 182S, he received a license to practice 
medicine and surgery from the Herkimer County Medical Society. He located at Rice's Cor- 
ners, and died there August 19, 1845. His death was the result of an operation performed 
upon himself for the cure of stricture of the urethra, caused by an injury received in the sad- 
dle. By his early death the community was deprived of a bright, conscieutious, and ener- 
getic citizen and physician. The profession lost from its ranks one to whose example and 
career they could point with honest pride. 

1837. — "James K. Bates, president; Azariah Jones, vice-president; William 
J. Sikes, secretary; Kilborn Hannahs, treasurer; Amasa Trowbridge, Jesse 
Ayers, A. S. Green, Reuben G jodale, and H. S. Dickerson, censors. Admitted 
Kilborn Hannahs. Dissertation by the president ; subject. Puerperal Aptha." 

Kilborn Hannahs was born in Richfield, Otsego County, N. Y., in 1808. When a child his 
father moved his family to the town of Columbia, Herkimer County. From his 15th to his 
19th year he was a clerk in a dry goods store. He then began the study of medicine with his 
father, Abel Hannahs, and graduated from Fairfield in 1832. In May, 1832, he married Eliza- 
beth Fuller, and moved to Watertowu in December, 1835. He bought out Joseph Goodale, 
who was in the drug business, and in this he continued until 1840, when he sold out to T. H. 
Camp. He then engaged in the practice of his profession until his health failed, when he re- 
tired from active practice in 1876. He joined the County Medical Society in 1837, and was 
elected its treasurer, which office he held in 1838 and '39; censor from 1838 to 1843; and presi- 
dent in 1840. and in 1875 he joined the reorganized society. He died October 30, 1884, aged 
76 years, three months, and 15 days. He was village trustee in 1842, '51, and '52. He had 
been health officer a number of years, and was at his death one of the vestry of Trinity Church, 
which latter office he had acceptably filled for a number of years. He was a man of firm con- 
victions, a vigorous, terse writer, and fond of appearing in the public press. 

ig^8, — C. P. Kimball, president; H. S. Dickerson, vice-president; Will- 
iam J. Sikes, secretary; Kilborn Hannahs, treasurer; censors: K. Hannahs, 
A. Trowbridge, A. S. Green, F. Dexter, and J. Ayers. Admitted Walter 
Dewey. 

Walter Dewey, born in Boonville, Oneida County, N. Y., in 1812, received his preliminary 
education at Lowville Academy, studied medicine with Dr. Dwight Dewey, of Turin, and 
graduated at Fairfield. He located at Antwerp in 1824, where he practiced until his death, 
December 4, 1845. He was held in high esteem by the people of Antwerp. 

1839. — A. S. Green, president; Foster Dexter, vice-president; William J. 
Sikes, secretary; K. Hannahs, treasurer; Ralph Rogers, A. S. Green, K. 
Hannahs, Foster Dexter, and R. Goodale, censors. Admitted to member- 
ship Drs. Amasa Trowbridge, Jr., and Amos Ellis. 

Amasa Trowbridge. Jr., born August 21, 1813, studied with his father, Amasa Trowbridge, 
of Watertown, and was a graduate of Fairfield Medical College. The following sketch is taken 
from his obituary: — 

"Dr. Amasa Trowbridge, Jr., was accidently killed in the following manner: He was re- 
turning on horseback from a professional visit to the upper part of the village, and when 
directly opposite the Catholic Church, on Factory street, was overtaken by a pair of horses, 
attached to a lumber wagon, on the full run. The pole of the wagon was driven into the 
Doctor's horse, throwing both horse and rider to the ground, crushing the skull of the latter 
in a most frightful manner. On raising the Doctor to a sitting posture the blood gushed from 
his eyes, ears, mouth, and nose. He died in about 45 minutes from the time of the acci- 
dentj^ and, as may be supposed, was insensible during the whole time. Dr. Crawe and sev- 
eral other physicians were called, but he was beyond earthly help. He was a bold, skillful, 
and successful operator, and at the time of his death was 28 years and some months old. He 
had attained a high professional reputation. Cut off in the morning of his usefulness, his 
death is regarded as a public calamity, and has diffused a general gloom over our village and 
vicinity." 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 1 87 

Amos Ellis, born at Brownville in 1810, studied medicine with Dr. Walter Webb, of Ad- 
ams. He located at Clayton in 1835, where he practiced all his life, and died May 22, 1879, 
aged 69 years. About 1850 he connected the drug business with his practice. He was post- 
master in 1845, justice of the peace about 1872, and joined the old County Society in 1839, and 
the new or rechganized society in 1871. • 

1840. — Kilborn Hannahs, president; A. Seymour, vice-president ; William 
J. Sikes, secretary ; R. Goodale, treasurer; J. K. Bates, A. Trowbridge, Jr., 
R. Rogers, A. Seymour, and R. Goodale, censors; R. Goodale, delegate to 
the State Society. The thanks of the society were extended to the president 
for his address. 

184 1. — " H. S. Dickerson, president; I. B. Crawe, vice-president; Charles 
Goodale, secretary; R. Goodale, treasurer; William H. H. Davis, K. Han- 
nahs, R. Rogers, I. B. Crawe, and A. Trowbridge, censors. Admitted as 
members Drs. Charles Goodale, William H. H. Davis, and S. N. Soule. 
Passed resolutions of condolence on the death of Dr. A. Trowbridge, Jr.; 
thanks of society extended to Drs. Hannahs, Bates, and Kimball for disser- 
tations." 

Charles Goodale, born in Watertown, May 18, 1817, studied medicine with his father. Dr. 
E. Goodale, and graduated at Fairlield. He afterwards went to Paris, attended lectures, and 
visited the various hospitals in that city. Returning to Watertown he was for some time with 
Dr. Trowbridge, and was elected secretary of the County Society in 18-13. which office lie held 
until 18-17. During the war of the Rebellion he was surgeon of the 94th N. Y. Vol. Inf. He 
died January 2G. 1876. 

William H. H. Davis was born in Paris, Oneida County, N. ¥., April 28, 1813. He gradu- 
ated at Geneva in 1838, and first settled at Cassville, in his native county, whence he removed 
to Camp's Mills, thence to Sackets Harbor, where be practiced a number of years. He then 
moved to Smithville, where he had a large practice. He died at Smithville, July 26, 1846. Dr. 
Davis was one of the best educated physicians in the county, and at the time of his death pos- 
sessed one of the, if not the, best medical libraries in this section. 

1842. — " Ithemer B. Crawe, president ; L. Barney, vice-president ; Charles 
Goodale, secretary; R. Goodale, treasurer; Amasa Trowbridge, A. S.Green, 
K. Hannahs, William H. H. Davis, and J. K. Bates, censors. Received as a 
member Benjamin Tractor. By invitation Dr. A. Trowbridge addressed the 
societv; subject, ' Fevers of this county.' " Of Benjamin Tractor we have no 
record. 

1843 — "Eli West, president; William H. H. Davis, vice-president; 
Charles Goodale, secretary ; R. Goodale, treasurer ; Amasa Trowbridge, 
Benjamin Tractor, James K. Bates, K. Hannahs, and William H. H. Davis, 
censors ; William V. V. Rosa, A. M. Van Ostrand, Leonard Powers, William 
E. Tyler, and William G. Comstock admitted as members. Address by the 
retiring president. Dr. I. B. Crawe ; subject, ' Dysentery.' Thanks of the 
society extended to the Doctor for his very able address ; also to Dr. H. H. 
Davis for his essay on ' Iodide of arsenic' " 

W. V. V. Rosa was born in Herkimer County, N. Y., October 24, 1819. His father moved 
to Adams, October 20, 1824. " He received his preliminary education in the schools of Adams 
village, and was then sent to Union College, Schenectady, where he graduated at an early age 
with high honors." Having embraced the medical profession as his future calling, after grad- 
uating from a medical college at Philadelphia, Penn., (believed to be the University of Penn- 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



sylvania,) he spent two years in Paris, adding to and perfecting his knowledge of medicine 
and snrgery. Returning to Adams he practiced there some time, and moved to Watertown. 
Here he practiced a number of years, when he retired from active practice. His father, a man 
of large means, enfeebled from age and debility, uaable to attend to his affairs, required his 
assistance, necessitating the Doctor's reluctantly taking this step, though he still evinced his 
love for, and interest in, all new developments and discoveries in medicine, and its collateral 
sciences. Modest and retiring, averse to show or display, he was not understood by the masses, 
but by his friends he was fully appreciated. His private charities were large, and some young 
men are indebted to him for the means which enabled them to educate themselves for future 
usefulness. With a mind well stored, to which he was daily adding by constant reading, and 
a deep thinker, he was a pleasant and instructive companion; one who freely and wiUiugly im- 
parted it to the young men who took an interest in and were anxious of adding to their store 
of knowledge in the arts and sciences. 

Alonzo M. Van Ostrand, born in Watertown, April 4, 1818, studied medicine with Drs. 
Smith and Comstock, of Evans Mills, N. Y., and graduated from the Geneva Medical College in 
1842. He first settled in Philadelphia, where he remained two years, when he moved to Evans 
Mills, where he practiced about 20 years. He joined the County Medical Society in 1843> 
and was supervisor of the town of Le Ray in 1842 and '43. He is highly spoken of as a 
physician. 

Leonard Powers, born in Denmark, Lewis County, N. Y., in October, 1816, was educated at 
Brown's Academy, in that village, studied medicine with Dr. French, of Denmark, and 
Dr. Eli West, of Carthage, and attended lectures at Fairfield, where he graduated about 1840. 
He located at Depauville, and practiced with Dr. William Frame about two years, and moved 
to Stone Mills, where he died May 8, 1844. 

William E. Tyler was born in the town of Hounsfield. His early education was acquired 
at the common schools, and at Belleville Academy and the Black River Literary- and Religious 
Institute at Watertown. He attended two courses of lectures at Geneva, and graduated there- 
from in 1843. He settled at Sackets Harbor, where he has continued to reside. Dr. Tyler has 
served as supervisor of the town of Hounsfield from 1873 to 1875. He became a member of the 
County Society in 1843, and joined the reorganized society April 3, 1877. He has enjoyed the 
confidence and respect of the community in which he resided, as a physician, as a man of 
business, and as a good citizen. 

"William G. Comstock was born at Norway, Herkimer County, N. Y., in October, 1809. 
His parents moved to the town of Salisbury, in the same county, where nearly all his early life 
was spent. After leaving the district school he took a course at Fairfield Academy, studied med- 
icine with Dr. Brown, of Salisbury, and Dr. Calvin Smith, of Little Falls, and entered the 
Fairfield Medical College, graduating from there in 1830. He spent a short time at Ox Bow, 
Jefferson County, but located at Auriesville, Montgomery County. He was married the same 
year to Miss Jane Muuson. of Salisbury, cousin of Dr. Isaac Munson, of Watertown. Dr. 
Comstock remained at Auriesville about five years, but becoming impressed with the idea that 
there was a good opening in the South he spent a few months there during the winter of 
1837 and '38. His expectations, however, were not realized. At this time a desirable oppor- 
tunity presented itself of forming a partnership with Dr. Ira A. Smith, of Evans Mills, Jef- 
ferson County. He went to Evans Mills in the- spring of 1838, and the partnership formed 
remained in force a number of years, but was finally dissolved by mutual consent. He was 
faithful and conscientious, both as a physician and as a man, and these qualities soon won for 
him the confidence and esteem of all with whom he came in contact. He was very successful, 
but it was a success won by hard work and loss of health. He died at Evans Mills on the 3d 
of June, 1851, from consumption, superinduced by overwork and exposure. His colleagues 
at Evans Mills were Drs. Ira A. Smith and Alonzo M. Van Ostrand." 

1844.— " Isaac Munson, president; J. Ellis, vice-president; Charles 
Goodale, secretary; R. Goodale, treasurer; A. S. Green, A. Trowbridge, 
I. B. Crawe, J. K. Bates, and H. S. Dickerson, censors; I. B. Crawe, dele- ■ 
gate to State Medical Society. Dissertation by the vice-president ; subject, 
• Too frequent use of mercurials in supposed biliary diseases.' " 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 1 89 

1845. — There is no record of the officers of the society for this year. 
■^'President 'Munson delivertd an address; subject, ' Scarlet fever.' Thanks 
of the society extended for the same. A fine for non-attendance of members 
imposed. Dr. I. B. Crawe made a verbal report as delegate of the transac- 
tions of the State Society, and offered a series of resolutions defining the 
probable result to the people of the action of the legislature removing the 
restrictions of the law licensing practitioners of medicine and surgery." 

1846. — The following is the only record of officers: Charles Goodale, sec- 
retary ; admitted as a member, E. S. Maxon. 

E. S. Maxon, born in Petersburg, Rensselaer County, N. Y., received the benefits of the 
schools and academies where he resided. Subsequently he took a college course, and had the 
degrees of A. M. and LL. D. conferred on him in Philadelphia, Pa. He began the study of 
medicine in 18il with Drs. Walter Webb and W. V. V. Kosa.of Adams, and graduated from the 
Jefferson Medical College, of Philadelphia, Pa., in 1845. He practiced at Adams one year, 
Adams Center 10 years, Geneva 10 years, Philadelphia. Pa., three, and Syracuse 17. Dr. 
Maxon is the author of Maxon's Practice of Medicine, published in Philadelphia in 1861, and 
Hospitals: British, French, and American, in 1867. He was a delegate to the International 
"Congress at Paris in 1867. 

1847. — There is no record for this year. 

1848. — The record shows that William R. Trowbridge was secretary, and 
that Simon Goodie and M. J. Hutchins were admitted as members. The 
admission of Dr, Hutchins does not appear on the original record obtained 
by me, but I have added his name to the list. He personally stated that he 
was made a member this year, which statement proves there was a meeting. 
Of Simon Goodie we have no record 

Martin J. Hutchins was born November 7, 1825, at Schuyler, Herkimer County, N. Y. He 
was educated at the common and select schools of the town, and studied medicine and surgery 
•with Drs. Davison and Brewster, of Theresa, with whom he continued three years. He at- 
tended lectures for six months at Castleton Medical College, of Vermont. lu 1845 he com- 
menced the practice of his profession atPlessis, in Alexandria, and remained thereuntil June, 
1853. In May, 1846, he was granted a license to practice from the Jefferson Medical Society, 
and in 1852 he received an honorary diploma from the Burlington (Vt.) Medical College. Be- 
ing a pronounced Democrat, and one of the party leaders, he received the appointment of 
custom-house inspector in June, 1853, and moved to Alexandria Bay, where he assumed the 
responsibilities of that position, the duties of which he continued to exercise with satisfaction 
to the powers that be, as he held the office under both the administrations of Pierce and 
Bachanan, until June, 1861, in all eight years. He then settled at Redwood, and resumed the 
active practice of his profession, where he has continued up to the present time, having prac- 
ticed 44 years in the town of Alexandria. He is still hale and hearty, and we trust he may be 
spared for many years to come: that he may continue his long, active, and successful career, 
an example to the younger members of the profession; of one who has lived and toiled to ele- 
vate the standard of his profession, and on any and every occasion, at all times and in all 
places, opposing quackery and empiricism in all their various forms. He has always been con- 
sidered as one of the active members of the society, and has contributed some eight papers to 
its archives on various medical subjects. He was elected county superintendent of the poor 
and served three years, was twice elected town superintendent of common schools, and was 
the treasurer of the board of pension examiners from November. 1885, to August, 1889. Dr. 
Hutchins joined the reorganized society June 7, 1870, was its president in 1873, and was one 
of the board of censors in 1877 and '79. 

That this was the last regular meeting of the society there can be 
no doubt. One or two of the older members of the profession, Drs. Will- 



190 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



iam R. Trowbridge and Isaac Munson, think a call was issued for a meeting 
at North Adams in 1849, and one in 1850 at Sackets Harbor; but there was 
not the necessary quorum present to transact business. The question 
naturally arises as to the causes which operated to suspend the meetings. 
Members from distant parts of the county, who had to travel long distances 
by stage or in their own conveyances, found it difificult and inconvenient, 
and were offended because the meetings were not held in different parts of 
the county. Many became disheartened and disgusted when the restrictions 
and protection thrown around the practice of medicine were rescinded by the 
legislature, and, as they thought, placed quacks and charlatans on an equal 
footing with the regular practitioner. Not considering that, as they were 
thrown upon their own resources, it became their duty, and would have been 
more praiseworthy in them, as members of an ancient, learned, and honor- 
able profession, to have girded up their loins anew, determining that by 
united, harmonious action, looking towards mutual improvement and greater 
professional attainments, they would gain the confidence of the public and 
out-distance their opponents. Twenty years elapsed without the opera- 
tions of a medical society in this county. 

During this time the fallowing physicians have resided in this county, and 
though some of them practiced medicine during the existence of the old 
society there is no record of their having joined it: — 

Ainsworth, Avery, Cape Vincent, deceased. 

Breed, , Smithville, unknown. 

Buckley, William J., Clayton, (now in Prescott, Canada). 

Carlisle, William, Three Mile Bay. deceased. 

Christie, William, Rodman, died March 29, 1881. 

Conkey, Jonas S., Antwerp, died May 16, 1883. 

Cushman, Darwin, La Fargeville, died in December, (888. 

Dickerson, De Esting, Rice's Corners, (now in Kansas City). 

Fairburn, , Cape Vincent, (now in Canada). 

Frame, William, Depauville, died in September, 1848. 

Goodwin, William W., Brownville, deceased. 

Guthrie, Samuel, Sackets Harbor, died October 19, 1848. 

Hannahs, Lucian, Theresa, died May 8, 1876. 

King, or Koneg, H. W. F., Stone Mills, died August 14, 1855. 

L'Mare, E., Watertown, died November 17, 1875. 

Massey, I. B., Rutland, (now in Sandusky, Ohio). 

Oliver, Vietus, Woodville, died in 1870. 

Parsons, Albert, Black River, died March 24, 1887. 

Robinson, William H., Antwerp, died at Cedar Falls, Iowa. 

Sacket, , Cape Vincent, deceased. 

Sherman, R. R., Antwerp, died May 2, 1880. 

Sloat, , Clayton, went West. 



i 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 19I 

Wheeler, T. B., Watertown, (now in Montreal). 

Winslow, M. A., Clayton, went West. 

Woodman, Joseph, Whitesville. 

The following named gentleman, though his name does not appear on the 
rolls of the society, is eminently worthy to be selected from the above list, 
and some notice taken of him, as one who, by his inventions and discover- 
ies, has shed a lustre on the town and county in which he lived: — 

Samuel Guthrie was born in Brimfield, Hampden County, Mass. Here he studied medi- 
cine with his father, Samuel Guthrie, Sr., practiced medicine a few years at Smyrna, Chen- 
ango County, N. Y., and moved to Sackets Harbor. He is known as a chemist, whose reputa- 
tion is world wide, as being one of the three discoverers of chloroform. Soubeiran in France 
and Liebig in Germany were the others, and they appear to have made the discovery inde- 
pendently and simultaneously. He was the first inventor and manufacturer of percussion 
pills. He died at Sackets Harbor, October 9, 1848. 

In 1868 Dr. F. B. A. Lewis called upon Dr. H. G. P. Spencer and intro- 
duced the subject of reorganizing the Medical Society. This interview re- 
sulted in a call dated August 15. 1868, for a meeting of the physicians of the 
county, to be held at the American Hotel in Watertown, September i, 1868. 
This call was headed by Dr. Spencer, and signed by 15 other physicians, 10 
of whom ultimately became members, and which call was duly published in 
the Watertown Daily Reformer. Pursuant to this call the following gentle- 
men assembled: — 

Drs. H. G. P. Spencer, William R. Trowbridge, James K. Bates, J. Mor- 
timer Crawe, and F. B. A. Lewis, of Watertown; H. S. Hendee, James 
T. Peeden, and George N. Hubbard, of Carthage; Truman Tuttle, of Rod- 
man ; and E. G. Derby, of Antwerp. Dr. Peeden was called to the chair 
and F. B. A. Lewis appointed secretary //v tern. After some preliminary busi- 
ness the meeting proceeded to the election of permanent officers, as follows: 
H. G. P. Spencer, president; H. S. Hendee, vice-president; F. B. A. 
Lewis, secretary; William R. Trowbridge, treasurer. A committee was ap- 
pointed to draft a constitution and by-laws, composed of the following gen- 
tlemen: Drs. William R. Trowbridge, James K. Bates, and J. Mortimer Crawe, 
of Watertown. A committee was also appointed to prepare a fee-bill, com- 
posed of Drs. Truman Tuttle, of Rodman ; E. G. Derby, of Antwerp; George 
N. Hubbard, of Carthage ; James K. Bates, WiUiam R. Trowbridge, and 
J. Mortimer Crawe, of Watertown ; L. E. Frame, of Depauville ; William 
P. Massey, of Brownville; W. E. Tyler, of Sackets Harbor, and Dr. Piersons^ 
of Adams. After some other business of minor importance the society ad- 
journed to meet in annual session at the American Hotel in Watertown, 
January 12, 1869. By this action the Jefferson County Medical Society was 
reorganized. 

1869.—" Jefferson County Medical Society, first annual meeting, American 
Hotel, Watertown, January, 12. 1869. Meeting called to order by the 
president [Dr. H. G. P. Spencer], and the minutes of the last meeting 
read by the secretary and approved. The committee on constitution 



192 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



and by-laws presented and read the same. The by-laws, as framed 
by the committee and amended by the members present, were then 
adopted. Drs. H. M. Stevens, of Watertown, Frederick Bott, of La Farge- 
viUe, H. W. Jewett, of Chaumont, E. A. Chapman, of Belleville, and Ira H. ■ 
Abell, of Antwerp, were then duly elected members of the society. On mo- ^ 
tion of Dr. Chapman the time for the semi-annual meeting was fixed for the 
second Tuesday in June, 1869, to be held at Watertown." Drs. H. G. P. 
Spencer, of Watertown, and H. S. Hendee, of Carthage, were appointed 
delegates to the State Medical Society. ^ 

At the semi-annual meeting, June 8, 1869, the ordinary rules of pro-^ 
ceeding were suspended in order to allow the admission of new members, as 
follows: Drs. Charles Parker, of Three Mile Bay; L. E. Frame, of Depau- 
ville ; A. H. Gordinier and L. F. Mason, of Evans Mills; Charles M. John- 
son, of Watertown ; and Robert Clink, of Redwood. 

Henry G. P. Spencer, M. D., son of Gordon P. Spencer, was born in Champion, Jefferson 
County, N. Y., August 23, 1821. His education was acquired at the Champion Academy and 
the Black River Literary and Religious Institute of Watertown. He studied medicine with 
his father and attended lectures at tlie Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, Pa., sessions 
of 1844, '45, and '46, receiving the diploma of this institution in March, 1846. Returning to 
Champion he entered into partnership with his father. His health failing him he came to 
Watertown in 1849, where he now resides. He was one of the main founders of the reorgan- 
ized County Medical Society in 1868, was its first president, and was also delegate to the State 
Medical Society and censor in 1872, '73, and '83. He was also vice-president of the State Med- 
ical Society in 1884. Dr. Spencer is conspicuous for his kindness of heart and unwearied 
attention to his brother physicians and their families whenever it has been their misfortune 
to be afflicted with sickness. He has enjoyed a large and lucrative private and consultation 
practice, and devoting himself as he has to general practice he has made surgery a specialty. 
He is a bold and skillful operator, has performed many of the major operations, and it has 
been his aim and ambition to keep pace with the rapid strides and extensive improvements 
made in modern surgery. 

Horatio S. Hendee was born in Greig, Lewis County, N. Y., November 11, 1827. His 
father died when he was six years old, and at the age of 10 years he was compelled to care for 
himself and earn his support. His mother, having only good common sense advice to give 
him, counseled him to get an education. He obtained a fair common school education at the 
Denmark and Lowville academies and Clinton Liberal Institute. In 1847 he commenced the 
study of medicine and surgery in the office of Dr. Amasa Trowbridge, at Watertown, and after 
a year and a half he attended his first course of lectures at Pittsfield (Mass.) Medical College. 
On his return from Pittsfield he obtained a situation in the drug department at the State 
Asylum, Utica, which claimed his attention about one hour morning, noon, and night, the 
compensation being board and $12 a month. The balance of his time he had for study and 
reading from a fine litei-ary and medical library belonging to the asylum. From this institu- 
tion he went to his last course of lectures at Castleton (Vt.) Medical College, where he gradu- 
ated in June, 1851. Soon after he opened an office in Rome, N. Y., and in the spring of 1854 
he removed to Deer River, N. Y. In 1860 he went abroad, spending some time in the hospi- 
tals of London, Edinburgh, and Paris, and in the summer of 1862 he was assistant surgeon 
with Dr. William Trowbridge in examining the 2,500 men enlisted and mustered into the ser- 
vice at Sackets Harbor, N. Y. Soon after he went to the front with 1,500 of these men, and 
was commissioned surgeon of the 153d N. Y. V. August 25, 1862. He served with the regiment 
until February 18, 1864, when he resigned and resumed practice at Deer River. March 1, 1868, 
he removed to Carthage, and in 1872 was nominated for member of Assembly for the second 
district of Jefferson County, and was elected. In 1873 he went to Lo\\-ville, where he has since 
practiced his profession. He was another of the original founders of the County Medical 
Society, was its first vice-president, and was one of the delegates to the State Medical Society. 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 193; 

F. B. A. Lewis, M. D., was born in Little Falls, Herkimer County, N. Y., March 12, 1839. 
His literary etlueation was acquired at the Watertown High School, Lawrence Academy, and 
Groton (Mass.) Normal School. He began the study of medicine in 1856, and was afterwards 
in the office of Dr. H. G. P. Spencer, of Watertown. He attended lectures at McGill Univer- 
sity, Montreal, Can., and Harvard University, Cambridge, Mass., and graduated from the 
latter institution in 1860. He first located at Adams, Jefferson County, where he was for a 
short time, when he entered the regular navy as assistant surgeon and served until the close 
of the war, when he settled in Watertown for the practice of his profession. Dr. Lewis was 
one of the founders of the reorganized Medical Society, was its first secretary, which office he 
held from 1868 to 1872, and was its delegate to tl.e State Medical Society from 1872 to 1876. 
He was coroner of Jefl'erson County eight or nine years, and health officer of Watertown city 
for some years. He is also a Fellow of the Massachusetts State Medical Society. Dr. Lewis 
decided to enter the ministry, and has been an Episcopal clergyman for the past 13 years. He 
now resides at San Jose, Cai. 

H. M. Stevens, M. D., was born at Pulaski, Oswego County, N. Y., October 25, 1826, and 
was educated at the common schools. He began the study of medicine in 1849 with Dr. H. F. 
Noyes, of that village, and attended lectures at the Albany Medical College and the University 
of New York, graduating from the latter institution in 1852. He practiced at La Fargevillo 18 
years, and in 1870 moved to Watertown, where he was appointed assistant secretary of the Agri- 
cultural Insurance Co., and upon the death of Dr. Isaac Munson he was elected secretary, which 
office he tills at the present time. Dr. Stevens is a pleasant, genial man, much respected and 
esteemed by a large circle of friends, and when he relinquished his practice it was much to 
the regret of his numerous patrons. He became a member of the County Medical Society at 
its first annual meeting, and was elected a member of its first board of censors. 

1870. — 'At the second annual meeting, January ir, 1870, the following 
officers were elected: Dr. Peaden, preside it ; L E. Frame, vice-president ; 
F. B. A. Liwis, pe-maie.it secretiry ; Dr. Trowbridge, treasurer; Drs. 
Crawe, Abell, Hubbard, Massey, and Stevens, censors. Admitted new mem- 
bers: Drs. N. M. Davidson, Theresa; George G. Sabin, Carthage, now of 
Black River ; Parley H. Johnson, Carthage, now of Adams ; Anson S. 
Thompson, Ellis village ; Ezra R. Pratt, Chaumont, afterwards of Brown- 
ville ; Eben S. Carlisle, Plessis; Solomon V. Frame, Clayton; Henry VV. 
Streeter, Watertown, now of Rochester; VVilliam P. Massey, Brownville 
(deceased). 

At the semi-annual meeting, June 7, 1870, Dr. Sabin offered a 
resolution, which was carried, changing the meeting from the second to the 
first Tuesday in January and June. New members: Drs. William C. Bailey, 
Adams Center; Martin J. Hutchins and Charles A. Catlin, Redwood; 
James D. Spencer, Watertown ; and Emmerson SaymDur, Natural Bridge. 
Members present, 23 ; absent, 13. 

James T. Peeden was born in Philadelphia, Pa., in 1820. He graduated from the Albany 
Medical College, and settled at Martinsburg. Lewis County, N. Y., where he was located a 
number of years, and in 1860 he moved to Carthage, Jefferson County, where he practiced 
until his death in 1882. He was one of the founders of the reorganized Jefferson County 
Medical Society in 1868, was its president in 1870, and at the end of his official year he delivered 
a very able address— subject: "The example set before us by the members of the profession 
who preceded us." He was tendered a vote of thanks and tlie address was published by the 
society. Dr. Peeden was a man of more than ordinary ability, and would attract attention and 
command respect in any society. 

187 1. — The third annual meeting held January 3, 187 1, at the court-house, 
was " called to order by the president, J. T. Peeden. Roll-call by the secre- 



194 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



tary; members present, 17; absent, 19. Officers elected : Drs. Ira H. Abell, 
president ; William C. Bailey, vice-presideat ; F. B. A. Lewis, secretary ; 
William R. Trowbridge, treasurer ; Drs. Satin, Hutchins, Crawe, Clink, and 
Hubbard, censors." 

The semi annual meeting, June 6, 187 1, was called to order by the presi- 
dent, Ira H. Abell. Present at roll-call, 23 ; absent, 13. New members, 
Lewis C. Watson, of Alexandria Bay, and Amos Ellis, of Clayton. 

Ira H. Abell was born in Fairfield, Franklin County, Vt., January 1, 1823. He studied 
medicine with Dr. J. L. Chandler, of St. Albans, and attended lectures at Vermont Medical 
College, Woodstock, during the sessions of 1842, '43, and '44. He went to Buffalo, where he 
practiced about one year, when he moved to East Berkshire, Vt., and December 25, 1853, he 
located in Antwerp, N. Y., where he has continued practice to the present time. Dr. Abell 
joined the County Medical Society January 12, 1869, and was it president in 1871. In 1876 he 
was honored by the society as one of their delegates to the State Society, and served from 1876 
to 1880. He was made a permanent member of the New York State Medical Society in 1881. 
Trouble and dissensions having arisen in the Slate Society, connected with alterations made in 
regard to its Code of Ethics and by-laws. Dr. Abell was one of those who felt it incumbent 
upon him, in connection with others, to withdraw and form a new society, which is now known 
as the New York Medical Association, of which he was one of the founders, and for five years 
a member of the executive committee. Dr. Abell has from the first been an active member of 
of the County Society, expressing his views candidly, openly, and forcibly, on all subjects 
brought before it for consideration, and on all occasions, when called upon to contribute a 
paper on any medical subject, he has responded promptly, 

Robert Clink, a native of Scotland, practiced tor a number of years at Redwood, Jeffer- 
son County, wtiere he died March 5, 1889, aged 72 years. He joined the society June 8, 1869, 
and was elected censor in 1871. 

1872. — The fourth annual meeting was held January 2, 1872, and was 
called to order by the president, Ira H. Abell ; members present at roll-call, 
18; absent, 20. The officers elected were: Drs. H. W. Jewett, president; 
G. N. Hubbard, vice-president; C. M. Johnson, secretary; J. D. Spencer, 
treasurer; Drs. Massey, Thompson, Hendee, H. G. P. Spencer, and Streeter, 
censors. 

The semi-annual meeting, June 4, 1872, was held at Carthage, and was 
called to order by the president, H. W. Jewett ; members present, 14, absent, 
24; members admitted: A. A. Getman, Chaumont, and J. H. Miller, Car- 
thage. 

H. W. Jewett, M. D., was born at Rome, Oneida County, N. Y., March 24, 1823, was 
■educated at the district and private schools of that place, and began to study medicine when 
he was 17 years of age, with Drs. H. H. & G. W. Pope, of Rome. He attended lectures at 
Geneva in 1843, '44, and '45, graduating in the latter year. He located at Depauville, where 
he remained seven years, when he moved to Chaiimont, where he is in practice at the present 
time. Dr. Jewett is well and favorably know in and about the locality where he practices as 
& physician, one who is pronounced in his opinions, and prompt and energetic in carrying out 
his diagnosis. He became a member of the County Society June 12, 1869, and was elected 
president in 1872. 

Anson S. Thompson was born in Harrisburg, Lewis County, N. Y., March 21, 1828. His 
early education was acquired at the district schools of Denmark and at Homer Academy. He 
attended lectures in New York in 1855 and at the Cincinnati Medical College in 1856, graduat- 
ing from the latter institution May 18, 1856. He located in Ellisburgh, Jefferson County, the 
same year, where he has practiced to the present time. Dr. Thompson served as coroner for 
three years, and has been elected to the Assembly twice, from 1886 to 1888. He joined the 
•County Society in 1870, and was elected censor in 1872, '73, '83, and '85. 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 1 95 

1873.— The fifth annual meeting was held January 7, 1873, at the court- 
house ; members present, 13; absent, 25 ; new member, E. G. Howland, of 
Watertown. The officers elected were Drs. M. J. Hutchins, president ; Tru- 
man Tuttle, vice-president; C. M. Johnson, secretary; J. M. Crawe, treas- 
oirer; Drs. Howland, Catlin, Thompson, P. H. Johnson, and Bailey, censors. 
The semi-annual meeting was held June 3, 1873, at the court-house, " the 
president being absent, and the vice-presidency vacant, by the decease of Dr. 
Tuttle. The meeting was called to order by the secretary. Upon motion of 
Dr. Bailey Dr. H. G. P. Spencer was elected chairman pro tern." Membeis 
present, 13; absent, 25; new members, Drs. James Kelsey, Theresa; N. O. 
Bemis, Adams; and George G. Whitaker, Rodman. 

M. J. Hutebins.— See sketch in the old society, page 18i'. 

Trumau Tuttle, M. D., was born at Amboy, Ouondaga County, N. Y., February 20, 1820. 
He studied medicine and surgery for three years with Dr. David V. Jones, of Baldwinsville, 
and attended lectures at Geneva Medical College in 1841, '42, and '43. He practiced in Lor- 
raine one year, and moved to Rodman in 1845. June 9, 1847, he married Marcia Wood, grand- 
daughter of Dr. Isaac S. Wood, of Rodman. He was one of the original founders of the 
reorganized County Medical Society in 1868, and was elected vice-president in 1873. Dr. 
Tuttle died April 19, 1873. aged 53 years. He was a quiet, gentlemanly, and well informed 
man, an honor to his family and the community in which he lived. 

Charles A. Catlin, born in Litchfield, Herkimer County, N. Y., February 29, 1836, was ed- 
ucated at the common schools and the academy of that village. He began the study of medi- 
cine at Rossie, St. Lawrence County, with Drs. D. McFalls and Seth French, and attended 
lectures at Albany in 1858, '59, and "61, graduating December 23, 1861. Dr. Catlin settled at 
Hedwood, Jefferson County, where he has resided to the present time, practicing his profes- 
sion and conducting a drug store, except the time he was in the army. He was assistant sur- 
geon of the 10th N. Y. Cav., and was appainted one of the board of pension examiners Janu- 
ary 15, 1889. June 7, 1870, he joined the County Medical Society, and was elected censor in 
1873. 

1874. — The sixth annual meeting was held January 6, 1874, at the court- 
house. The president being temporarily absent, on motion of Dr. H. G. P. 
Spencer Dr. W. C. Bailey was elected chairman/;-/? tern. Members present, 
20 ; absent, 22 ; new members, J. R. Sturtevant, Theresa ; D. E. Pierce, St. 
Lawrence ; John Grafton, Watertown ; and E. Sill, Dexter, now of Water- 
town. Election of officers: William C. Bailey, president; J. M. Crawe, vice, 
president; C. M. Johnson, secretary; E. B. Pratt, treasurer; Drs. H. G. P. 
Spencer, E. Sill, F. Bott, N. O. Bemis, and J. H. Miller, censors. 

At the semi-annual meeting, held June 2, 1874, at the court-house, the 
society was called to order by the president, W. C. Bailey. Members pres- 
ent, 21 ; absent, 21 ; new members, Drs. J. Aldrich Wood, Plessis; D. A. 
Gleason, Henderson ; George Seymour, Mannsville ; A. B. Stevens, Black 
River ; M. L. Overton, Lorraine ; and J. T. Millard, Pamelia, late of Albion. 

William C. Bailey, son of Dr. Eh S. Bailey, of Brookfield, Madison County, N. Y., was 
born January 3. 1826. His education was obtained in the common schools and at De Ruyter 
Institute, in Madison County. He studied medicine with his father, and in 1845, '46, and '47 
he attended lectures at the University of New York and the Geneva Bledical College, and in 
1848 graduated from the Berkshire Medical College, at Pittsfield, Mass. He first located in 
Genesee, Allegany County, N. Y., in 1849, and moved to Adams Center in 1855, where he is 
now located. In 1863 he was assistant surgeon of the 179th Regt. N. Y. Vol. Inf., and in 1864 



196 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



received the appointment of surgeon of the 186th Regt. N. Y. Vol. Inf. He was elected a- 
member of the County Medical Society June 7, 1870, and was its vice-president in 1871, presi- 
dent in 1874, censor in 1873 and '77, and delegate to the State Medical Society from 1880 to 
1884. In 1889 be received the appointment as one of the board of j^ension surgeons for Jeffer- 
son County, which position he now holds. 

Frederick Bott, M. D..wa8 born in Bruchsal, Baden, Germany, May 11, 1824, and was edu- 
cated at Bruchsal, Heidelberg, and Zurich. He began to study medicine in 1848, and attended 
lectures at the universities of Heidelberg and Zurich, graduating from the latter institutiorr 
in 1855. He settled in Zurich, where he practiced about two and one-half years, when he 
came to the United States and located at Stone Mills, jefiferson County, N. Y., where he re- 
mained until 1861, when he moved to La Fargeville, where he contiiiued to reside until he 
died, June 27, 1878, aged 66 years. He joined the Medical Society January 12, 1869, and was 
elected censor in 1874 and '75. In September, 1862, lie was appointed assistant surgeon of the- 
54th Regt. N. Y. Vol. Inf., and was mustered out of the service in the fall of 1864. 

1875. — The seventh annual meeting was held January 5, 1875, at the court- 
house in Watertown. "The meeting was called to order by the president^ 
W. C. Bailey.'* Members present, 27 ; absent, 23 ; new members, Drs. C. W. 
Burdick, Watertown ; Z. R. Babcock, Lorraine; L. E. Jones, Evans Mills ; 
and H. S. Lane, Philadelphia. "By Dr. Le(vis, 

'^Resolved, That the Society meet quarterly in the future, on the first Tuesdays in January, 
April, July, and October; the said meetings to be held at Watertown. But upon a two-thirds 
vote the April and October meetings may be held at other places." 

This motion was carried. Officers elected : Drs. J. M. Crawe, president ; 
George Seymour, vice-president; C. M. Johnson, secretary; E. B. Pratt, 
treasurer; Drs. H. G. P. Spencer, E. Sill, F. Bott, J. H. Miller, and H. O. 
Bemis, censors. 

Quarterly session, April 6, 1875: "The society convened at the rooms of 
the Y. M. C. A. pursuant to adjournment. The meeting was called to order 
by the president. Dr. J. M. Crawe " ; members present, 24 ; absent, 30. " Drs. 
Williams, Lemire, Hannahs, and Black were invited to sit with the society." 
New members, Drs. William T. Burdick and K. Hannahs, of Watertown. 

At the seini-annual meeting, held July 6, 1875, the society met at the 
court-house. "The meeting was called to order by the president, Dr. J. M. 
Crawe"; present, 24; absent, 31; new member, Dr. A. K. Hale, Adams. 
"Semi-annual address by the vice-president, Dr. George Seymour, of Manns- 
ville." 

Quarterly meeting, October 5, 1875, at the Y. M. C. A. rooms : " Meeting 
called to order by the president, Dr. J. M. Crawe. Dr. F. B. A. Lewis was 
appointed secretary //y? tern. Members admitted, Charles Douglass, of Dex- 
ter, and A. R. Rudd, of Watertown; members present, 28." 

1876. — " Eighth annual meeting, January 6, 1876: Society met in the rooms 
of the Y. M. C. A., at 10:30 a. m., pursuant to adjournment. The meeting 
was called to order by the president, Dr. J. M. Crawe." Members present,. 
31 ; members admitted, S. L. Merrill, Carthage, and John Pearce, Adams. 
" The president read his annual address ; subject, ' History of Jefferson Med- 
ical Society: its Objects and its Aims.' Upon motion the thanks of the 
society were tendered the president for his very able and interesting address, 



4 





'tn/llyll^ S'lGUM^'-^^'^ , 





THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 1 97 

and a copy of the same was requested for publication. Committee on pub- 
lication, Drs. Johnson, Streeter, and Lewis. Thanks of the society and do- 
nation of $5 were tendered to the Y. M. C. A. for the use of their rooms. The 
following officers were elected for the ensuing year : Drs. K. Hannahs, 
president; William P. Massey, vice-president; H. W. Streeter, secretary; 

E. B. Pratt, treasurer; Drs. Lewis, Peeden, Hale, Parker, and Clink, censors . 
delegates to the New York State Medical Society^ Drs. Crawe and Abell." 

Quarterly meeting, April 4, 1876: "The society met pursuant to 
adjournment in VVatertown at the rooms of the Y. M. C. A., at 10:30 a. m. 
The meeting was called to order by the president, Dr. K.. Hannahs." Mem- 
bers present, 25. "The name of Dr. Goodwin, of Brownville, was proposed 
for membership, and the application placed on file, the candidate not being 
present." The name of Dr. Masson, of Cape Vincent, was proposed by Dr. 
Streeter, was reported favorably upon by the censors, and the candidate was 
admitted to membership. 

At the " semiannual meeting held July 4, 1876, the society met at the court- 
house, in the city of VVatertown, at 10 a. .m."; members present, 7. " The so- 
ciety was called to order by the president. Dr. K. Hannahs, and Dr. C. W. 
Burdick was appointed secretary pro tern. The society then adjourned to 
meet at the Woodruff Huuse the first Tuesday in October. The appoint- 
ments for the present meeting were continued for the next." 

Quarterly meeting, October 3, 1876: ''The society met at the Woodruff 
House. The president, Dr. K. Hannahs, presided"; members present, 27. 
" Drs. S. L. Parmelee, of Watertown, N. D. Furguson, of Carthage, S. W. 
Frame, of Belleville, and N. G. Terrv, of Henderson, were admitted to 
membership." Mrs. Mansfield was proposed and admitted, subject to the 
action of the State Society, as regards her diploma. 
Kilborn Hannahs. — See sketch in the old society, page 197. 

Heni-y W. Streeter, M. D., was born in Watertown, May 31, 184.5, attended seliool at the 
Jetrerson County Institute, and began tlie study of medicine in 18G5, liis preceptor being Dr. 

F. F. Maury, of Philadelphia, Pa. He attended lectures at the Jefferson Medical College, Phil- 
adelphia, Pa., and graduated therefrom in 1868. He commenced the practice of his profession 
in his native city, where he resided 153^ yeai-s, when he moved to Rochester. N. Y., where he 
has been located for the last tix years. Dr. Streeter joined the County Medical Society Janu- 
ary 11, 1870, of which he was secretary in 1876, and censor in 1872. He is also a member of 
the Monroe County Medical Society and Rochester Pathological Society. 

diaries Parker, M. D., Ijorn in the town of Watertown, on the south side of the river, two 
miles from the city, on the road to Brownville, received his early education in the common and 
select schools of Watertown, and began the study of his profession with Dr. Jesse Ayers, of 
Brownville. He attended lectures at Castletoji, Vt., from 18-14 to 1847, graduating from there 
June 16, 1847. He practiced at Little York during the intervals of lectures, and after obtain- 
ing his diploma he located at Tliree Mile Bay, where he now resides. Dr. Parker was school 
commissioner about six years, auri justice of the peace eight or nine years. He joined the 
County Society June 8, 18C9, and was electt d cen.sor in 1876. 

A. Kent Hale, M. D., was born at Adams Center, Jefferson County. N. Y., May 23, 1850, 

and was educated at Falley Seminary, Fairfield Seminary, Union School of Ann Arbor, Mich., 

and Hungerford Collegiate Institute of Adams, N. Y. He began the study of medicine with 

his father, A. P. Hale, of Adams, and attended lectures at the University of Michigan, gradu- 

13* 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



ating therefrom March 25, 1874. He then returned to Adams, where he has pi-aeticed for the 
past 16 years. Dr. Hale was elected a member of the County Medical Society July 6, 1875, and 
■was one of the board of censord in 1876. 

1877. — At the ninth annual meeting held January 2, 1877, the " society met 
at the Woodruff House at 11 a. m. The meeting was called to order by the 
president, Dr. K. Hannahs''; present, 21. " President reported withdrawal from 
the society of Drs. Streeter and Lewis." New member. Dr. G. A. Wood, of 
Ox Bow. " Mrs. Mansfield was admitted to full membership. Dr. Binsse was 
cordially invited to meet with the society at all times. The following officers 
were elected for the ensuing year: President, W. P. Massey ; vice president, 
C. M. Johnson; secretary, W. T. Burdick ; treasurer, E. B. Pratt; Drs. 
Hutchins, Sill, Bailey, C. M. Burdick, and S. L. Parmelee, censors." 

Quarterly meeting, Watertown, April 3, 1877: " Meeting called to order by 
the president, William P. Massey, Brownville"; number present, 33; new 
members, Drs. William E: Tyler, Sackets Harbor; J. H. Tamblin, Tjler- 
ville, now of Copenhagen, Lewis County; H. H. Deane, Watertown ; and 
H. M. Mcllmoyl, Clayton. 

Semi-annual meeting July 3, 1877: " Meeting called to order by Dr. Will- 
iam P. Massey, of Brownville, president "; present, 34. " The following phy- 
sicians were admitted to membership in the society: Drs. C. D. Potter, of 
Adams Center; A. J. Benedict, of Sackets Harbor; and Dr. Barney was 
made an honorary member." 

The quarterly meeting of October 2, 1877, was held at the rooms of the 
Y. M. C. A. The "society was called to order at 11 a. m. by Dr. Q. M. 
Johnson, vice-president, who said he had received a line from President 
Massey, saying that continued ill-health would prevent his meeting with the 
society." Members present, 24. Dr. Bemis wished to withdraw, which re- 
quest was granted New members, Drs. Jacob Daab, La Fargeville, and 
Charles Wright, Adams. " Dr. Parmelee offered the following preamble and 
resolution, which was unanimously adopted: — 

" WhebK-VS, This society, having learned of the serious illness atid feeble health of their 
present worthy President, William P. Massey, would present the following resolution to be 
sent to the Doctor by the Secretary, and also to be placed upon the minutes of the meeting: — 

'• Besolved, That in the illness of Dr. William P. Massey, present president of this society, 
bis fellows desire to tender their warmest sympathies and earnest desires for his speedy re- 
covery, and his return to the active duties of his profession." 

1878. — The tenth annual meeting was held January i, 1878, at the Y. M. 
C. A. rooms in Watertown. "Society called to order at 1 1 a. m. by Presi- 
dent William P. Massey "; members present, 31; absent, 38. The following 
officers were elected: President, Dr. L. E. Frame, Depauville ; vice-president, 
E. G. Derby, Antwerp ; secretary, W. T. Burdick, Pamelia Four Corners ; 
treasurer, E. B. Pratt, Brownville ; censors, Drs. William R. Trowbridge, 
J. M. Crawe, E. Sill, S. L. Parmelee, of Watertown, and E. B. Pratt, of 
Brownville. 

The quarterly meeting of April 2, 1878, was held at the rooms of the Jef- 
ferson County Medical Society, Paddock arcade, Watertown. " Meeting called 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 199 

to order by the president, L. E. Frame"; members present, 27 ; absent, 40 ; 
new member, Dr. George M. McCombs, Clayton. The resignation of Dr. 
Charles Wright, of Adams, was accepted. The committee appointed to 
designate the day and place for a medical excursion named the 20th of June; 
headquarters, Crossraon House, Alexandria Bay. 

The semi-annual meeting was held in the rooms of the Jefferson County 
Medical Society, Paddock arcade, Watertown, July 2, 1878. " Society called 
to order by Dr. E. L. Frame, president "; members present, 20. " Dr. Hutch- 
ins, one of the committee of arrangements on excursion, said although there 
were but few excursionists a very pleasant time was experienced." The sec- 
retary, Dr. W. T. Burdick, tendered his resignation. On motion of Dr. 
Hutchins it was accepted, and a vote of thanks was tendered, and he said 
the best wishes of the society would follow him to his new home. Dr. 
H. H. Deane was made secretary to fill vacancy. The president then an- 
nounced the death of Dr. Frederick Bott, of La Fargeville, and appropriate 
resolutions of respect were passed. Dr. Abell announced the death of Mrs. 
Dr. Derby, and resolutions of condolence were passed. 

Quarterly meeting, October i, 1878: "In absence of the president and 
vice-president the society was called to order by the secretary, and on motion 
of Dr. Grafton Dr. J. M. Crawe was elected chairmm//'^ tern." j members 
present, 23. 

Luke E. Frame, M. D., son of Dr. William Frame, was born in Russia, Herkimer County, 
N. Y., and began the study of medicine in 1840 with his father. He attended lectures at 
■Geneva Medical Colle^je, and graduated from there in 184:4. He located at Depauville, N. Y., 
where he died March 20, 1883, aged 71 years. Dr. Frame practiced there 37 years. He was 
supervisor of the town, postmaster at Depauville, and during the Patriot war in 1838 was 
adjutant of the 2'25th Eegt. state militia. He bi came a member of the Jefferson Ctmnty 
Medical Society June 8, 1869, was its vice-president in 1870, and its president in 1878. He has 
two sons, Silas Wright Frame, of Belleville, and Solomou V. Frame, of Clayton, both of whom 
are physicians. 

E. G. Derby formerly practiced at BrownvUle about six months, and later at Pameliai'our 
Corners, wlience he removed to Antwerp, N. Y., and is now in Denver, Col. 

Henry H. Deane, M. D., is a native of Swanton, Vt., and was born in 1850. He was edu- 
cated in Burlington, Vt., and studied medicine with the late Dr. Samuel W. Thayer, professor 
of suigery and anatomy in the University of Vermont. From this institution he graduated 
in 1876. and was immediately elected demonstrator of anatomy for the university. In 1877 he 
came to Watertown, N Y.. and began practice, and here we find him in 1890. Dr. Deane has 
served as secretary of the County Medical Society eight years, and in 1878 was elected delegate 
to the State Medical Society. He held the office of reporter of the national board of health of 
Washington previous to tlie organization of the state board. Dr. Deane is an enthusiast upon 
sanitary laws, and has served as city liealth officer for many years, which office he still con- 
tinues to administer. He has also served as city physician three years, and was secretary of 
the board of pension examiners from 1885 to 1889. Dr. Deane is an advanced Mason, and will 
soon hold all of the degrees in that fraternity. 

1879 — The eleventh annual meeting was held at Watertown, January 7, 

1879. " The roll being called 19 members answered to their names. The 

death of Dr. Binsse being announced resolutions of respect and condolence 

were passed; ordered to be entered on the minutes of the society, and a 

■copy ordered sent to the family." Officers elected: President, William R. 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Trowbridge; vice-president, E. B. Pratt; secretary, H. H. Deane; treasurer, 
E. Sill; censors, Drs. Grafton, Massey, Hutchins, Parmelee, and C. M. 
Johnson. 

At the quarterly meeting, held April i, 1879, the society was called to 
order by the president, Dr. William R. Trowbridge ; members present, 30 ; 
admitted S. E. Ballard, Natural Bridge, now of Oswego Falls, Oswego County, 
and Edward W. Trowbridge, of VVatertown. 

At the semi-annual meetmg, held July x, 1879, the society met at their 
rooms in Paddock arcade, in Watertown. The meeting was called to 
order by the president, Dr. William R. Trowbridge ; members present, 26 - 
admitted Dr Russell Finney, Rodman. Dr. H. S. Lane was brought before 
the society for manufacturing patent medicines. A committee, consisting of 
Drs. Grafton, Massey, and L. E. Frame, were appointed to investigate the 
matter, and they reported that in their opinion he should be expelled from 
the society. The death of Dr. Amos Ellis being announced resolutions of 
respect were passed, ordered placed on the records of the society, and a copy 
transmitted to the family. 

At the quarterly meeting, held October 7, 1879, the society met at their 
rooms, and was called to order by the president, Dr. William R. Trowbridge. 
Members present, 28 ; new members admitted, Drs. J. B. Ammon, Pamelia 
Four Corners; De Witt C. Rodenhurst, Philadelphia; William H. Forsyth, 
Watertown ; and Mills K. Church, Pierrepont Manor. 

iggo. — The twelfth annual meeting was held at its rooms, in Paddock 
arcade, January 6, 1880. The society was called to order by the president. 
Dr. William R. Trowbridge. At roll-call there were present 3 i members. " The 
retirincr president. Dr. William R. Trowbridge, read a very interesting address 
on the Adirondacks as a resort for consumptives, for which he was tendered 
a vote of thanks. Election of officers being next in order the following 
gentlemen were elected for the ensuing year: President, L. E. Jones, Evans 
Mills • vice-president, P. H.Johnson, Adams; secretary, H. H. Deane, VVater- 
town ; treasurer, J. H. Tamblin, Tylerville ; censors : Drs. S. L. Parmelee 
and E. Sill, of Watertown ; E. B. Pratt, of Brownville ; J. R. Sturtevant, of 
Theresa; and H. A. Mcllmoyl, of Clayton." 

At the quarterly meeting of April 6, 1880, the society met at its rooms in 
Paddock arcade, and was called to order by the president, L. E. Jones. 
Members present, 23. The following new members were admitted: B. C. 
Cheeseman, Depauville; A. H. Allen, Heeneville ; and Allen S. Smith, Water- 
town. " Miscellaneous business being in order Dr. VV. P. Massey offered 
the following preamble and resolutions : — 

" 'Whereas, Death lias entered our ranks since we last met, and has removed two of our 
number, viz.: Dr. C. W. Biirdick and Dr. William H. Forsyth, we would place on record the 
testimony of our appreciation of these brethren when livintr, and of our loss in their death. 
" ' Dr. Burdiclv has long lived within the bounds of the society, and had won the respect 
and contidence of all his brethren of the profession, as well as his acquaintances and friends. 
We tender our sympathy to his family in this their bereavement. 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 



" ' Dr. Forsyth was cut off before he fnlly entered upon the practice of his chosen jDrofes- 
sion, but in every position to which he has been called he has given proof of a good mind, a 
kind heart, and the ability to succeed. We tender our sympathy to his family and friends. 

" • Jiesolved, That these expressions of onr appreciation of these brethren be placed on the 
records of this society, and a copy be sent to the families of Dr. Burdick and Dr. Forsyth. 

" ' Watertown, April 6, 1880.' " 

At the semi-annual meeting, July 6, i88o. the society met at its rooms in 
the Paddock arcade, and was called to order by the president, Dr. L. E. 
Jones. Members present, 23. '"The secretary read the new law rcquirirg 
all persons practicing physic and surgery to register his authority for so prac- 
ticing. Society then listened to the semi-annual address by the vice-president, 
Dr. P. H. Johnson." 

At the quarterly meeting of October 5, 1880, the society was called to 
order by the president, Dr. L. E. Jones, at its ro(jms in the Paddock arcade. 
Members present, 30. 'Dr. Sturtevant presented the following preamble 
and resolution: — 

"Whereas, Since our last meeting the messenger of death having entered the family of 
Dr. J. B. .\mmann and removed the beloved companion of his bosom, be it therefore 

'' Resolved, That the sympathy of the society be extended to our brother in his severe 
affliction." 

"Special meeting, October 12, 18S0: Meeting called for the purpose of 
attending the funeral of the late Dr. John Grafton. Meeting called to order 
by the president, Dr. L. E. Jones. On loll-call the following members were 
present: Drs. William R. Trowbridge, J. Mortimer Crawe, George N. Hubbard, 
Ira H. Abell, E. A. Chapman, C. M. Johnson, E. Sill, A. R. Rudd, N. D. 
Furguson, H. H. Deane, J. E. Kelsey, L. E. Jones, S. L. Parmelee, and 
K. Hannahs. Reading of minutes dispensed with. On motion president 
appointed Drs. Abell, Furgusun, and Parmelee a committee on resolutions, 
who reported the following preamble and resolutions: — 

'• Whkkeas, Death has entered the circle of physicians and surgeons of Jefferson County 
and snatched one who has been widely known for many years, not only in this but in adjoin- 
ing counties and in all Northern New York, as a prominent physician and surgeon, whose skill 
has 'been acknowledged by hundreds to whom he has administered; therefore, 

^'Besolved, That in the death of Dr. John Grafton this society and the profession at large 
have lost one who stood in the front ranks for scholarly attainments and practical skill; one 
who was devotedly attached to its progress, both as a scientist and as a benefactor to his race; 
one who, by uniting energy never excelled, did all in his power for its promotion. 

"Eesolved, That our loss is deeply felt, and that we would unitedly in a body in this 
public manner express our sorrow and drop upon his bier our parting tears; also, 

" Resolved, That we desire to express to the family of the deceased our entire sympathies 
in their great bereavement, and they may receive the comforts of Him who wept at the grave 
of the mourners in Galilee. 

'^Resolved, That these resolutions be published in the city papers, also a copy be pre- 
sented to the bereaved family, and a copy be placed upon the files of this society. 

"Iea H. Abell. ) 
" S. L. Parmelee, > Committee." 
'• N. D. FuRCiUsoN, j 

" On motion adjourned till 3 p. m. and proceed in a body to the residence 
of the deceased, where the funeral services are to be held, and also to 
Brownville by special train, where the remains are to be interred." At 3 p. m. 



202 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



the society reassembled and carried out the above program, and then ad- 
journed to next regular meeting, first Tuesday in January, 1881. 

1881. — Thirteenth annual meeting, January 4, 1881 : Meeting called to 
order by the president, Dr. L. R. Jones, at their rooms in Paddock arcade. 
The number of members present were 20. The following officers were 
elected : President, E. B. Pratt ; vice-president, E. G. Howland ; secretary, 
H. H. Deane ; treasurer, J. H. Tamblin ; censors, S. L. Parmelee, J. Mor- 
timer Crawe, J. R. Sturtevant, H. A. Mcllmoyl, and E. Sill. 

At the quarterly meeting, April 5, i88r, the society was called to order by 
the president, E. B. Pratt; present at roll-call, 25 ; new members, Drs. E. E. 
Ward, Pamelia Four Corners, and Charles M. Rcxford, Watertown, " On 
motion the society adjourned to meet at the court-house." " Meeting called 
to order by the secretary, who informed the society that it was necessary, in 
order that the society be legally constituted, to meet in the room where the 
last session of the County Court was held, and elect officers, and for that 
purpose the society has adjourned to this room. On motion Dr. J. Morti- 
mer Crawe was made chairman, and H. H. Deane, secretary, and on roll call 
the following gentlemen were present : K. Hannahs, N. D. Furguson, 
J. Mortimer Crawe, E. B. Pratt, E. E. Ward, J. H. Tamblin, J. D. Spencer, 
J. B. Ammann, and H. H. Deane. N. D. Furguson and J. B. Ammann were 
appointed tellers, and upon ballot E. B. Pratt was elected president ; E. G. 
Howland, vice-president; H. H. Deane, secretary ; J. H Tamblin, treasurer ; 
J, D. Spencer and William C. Bailey, delegates to the State Medical Society. 
Drs. L. S. Parmelee, J. Mortimer Crawe, E. Sill, H. M. Mcllmoyl, and J. R. 
Sturtevant were elected censors. A motion was made and carried that the 
by-laws now governing the society remain in force till revised by the com- 
mittee. On motion adjourned to the rooms of the society at 2 p. m." 

Afternoon session. — " Society met pursuant to adjournment at 2 p. m.. 
President E. B. Pratt in the chair. The society listened to a very interesting 
report on surgery by Dr. N. D. Furguson, of Carthage, for which the Doc- 
tor was tendered a vote of thanks, and requested to continue the subject at 
the next meeting. Dr. Douglass read a very interesting essay on peritonitis, 
for which he was tendered a vote of thanks." 

Special meeting, Tuesday, April 14, 1881 : " Society met pursuant to call 
by the president, to take action in regard to the decease of the late Drs. 
Peeden and Parmelee. Meeting called to order by the president. Dr. E. B. 
Pratt." Members present, t6. "On motion Drs. Hannahs, C. M. John- 
son, and C. M. Rexford were appointed a committee to draft appropriate 
resolutions in the case of Dr. Parmelee, and report at once ; and Drs. H. G. P. 
Spencer, William R. Trowbridge, and E. G. Howland in the case of Dr. 
Peeden, and report at the next meeting. On motion Drs. Hannahs, William 
R. Trowbridge, WilHam P. Massey, Ira H. Abel), E. G. Howland, and C. M. 
Rexford, with the president and secretary, were appointed to accompany the 
remains of Dr. Parmelee to Gouverneur. On motion Dr. H. G. P. Spencer 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 203 

was appointed to write a memoir of Dr. Peeden, deceased, and Dr. Abell to 
write a memoir of Dr. Parmelee, deceased. On motion the secretary was 
authorized to procure a floral tribute to the deceased Dr. Parmelee by the 
society. The "committee in the case of Dr. Parmelee reported the following 
resolutions, which, on motion, were adopted : — 

"Wheuea.s, It has pleased Almighty God, in His Divine Wisdom, to again enter the ranks 
of the Jett'ersou Countj' Medical Society and i-emove by sudden and unexpected death our 
beloved brother. Dr. 8. L. Parmelee, and thus remind us anew of the uncertainty of this life, 
and of the certainty and solemnity of death; but that the solemnity is increased by the prom- 
inence of the individual, and the suddenness of its occurrence. It is seldom that a case 
occurs that enlists the sympathies of a community more than the death of Dr. Parmelee. 
Therefore, be it 

" Resolved, That, in the sudden and unexpected death of Dr. Parmelee, the Jeti'erson 
County Medical Society desires to express its sorrow at the decease of one of its most honor- 
able and distinguished members; its regret at the loss of a Christian physician, of a l)rother 
of sterling integrity, and of urbane manners, whose scholarly attainments have enabled him 
to be of great usefulness in professional and social life; and to record our admiration of these 
ipialities which, united in him, form the Christian gentleman and successful physician. 

" Besolced, That the society feels that not only its members, but that the community at 
large, have lost in the death of Dr. Parmelee th€ fellowship of a Christian gentleman, and one 
of its most liberal members; and it is further 

" Eesiilved, That the sympathies of the society are offered, not only to its individual mem- 
bers, but to the public in general, l)y whom he was so highly esteemed as a Christian and a 
gentleman, and that, above all, the heart-felt sympathies of this society are extended and es- 
pecially expressed to his bereaved widow and family; and it is, lastly, 

" Resolved, That these resolutions be entered upon the minutes of the society, and a copy, 
signed by the president and secretary, be presented to the widow of the deceased, and that a 
copy be presented to the daily press for publication. 

" On motion society adjourned to the house of the deceasetl in a body to 
escort the remains to the depot." 

Semi-annual meeting, July 5, 1881 : " Society met at its rooms in the Pad- 
dock arcade, and was called to order by the president. Dr. E. B. Pratt." 
Members present, 22; new member. Miss F. C. Willard, of Watertown. 

At the quarterly meeting of October 4, 1881, the society met at its rooms 
in the Paddock arcade, and was called to order by the president, Dr. E. B. 
Pratt. Members present, 23 ; new member, Dr. M. L. Smith, of Watertown. 
E. B. Pratt, M. D., was born in Durham. Greene County, N. Y., October 14, 1846. Edu- 
cated at the district and select schools of that village, he began the study of medicine about 
186.3 with Dr. Elias Whittlesey, of that place. He attended one course of lectures at Geneva 
Bledical College in 1863, and two at the University of New York, medical department, gradu- 
ating from the latter in 1869. Locating in Chaumont, Jefferson County, he remained there 
four years, when he. removed to Browuville, where he practiced about 10 years, and then 
moved to the western part of the State. He joined the County Medical Society January 11. 
1870, was elected president in 1881, vice-president in 1879, treasurer from 1874 to '79, and 
censor in 1878 and 1880. 

E. G. Howland, M. D., was born in the town of Rutland, in June, 1822. He was educated 
at the common schools, and was a teacher a number of years. He studied medicine with Dr. 
Otis Shaw, of Copenhagen, Lewis County, N. Y., and is said to have graduated from a medi- 
cal college in Vermont. Dr. Howland settled at Martinsburg, Lewis County, and later removed 
to Florence, and thence to Knoxboro, Oneida County, where he practiced many years, and 
moved to Watertown in 1871, where he practiced and carried on a drug store to the time of 
his death, May 16, 1882, aged 59 years. He joined the County Medical Society January 7, 
1873, and was elected censor the same year and vice-president in 1881. 



204 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



1882 — Fourteenth annual meeting, January 3, 1882: The society was 
called to order at 10:30 a. m. by the president, Dr. E. B. Pratt, at its rooms 
in the Paddock arcade. Members present, 27 ; new member. Dr. T. E. 
Maine, of Philadelphia. The officers elected were: President, Dr. J. R. 
Sturtevant; vice-president, Dr. A. B. Stevens; secretary, " Dr. H. H. Deane; 
treasurer, J. H. Tambhn ; censors, Drs. J- Mortimer Crawe, William R. 
Trowbridge, L. E. Jones, Robert Clink, and Jacob Daab. 

At the quarterly meeting held April 11, 1882, the society met at the Eagle 
Hotel, Philadelphia, and was called to order by the president. Dr. J. R. Sturte- 
vant. Members present, 20; new. members admitted : Drs. S. Corbin Clark, 
Clayton ; G. A. R. Blake, Watertown ; J. C. Graham, Philadelphia ; C. E. 
Jones, La Fargeville; and Frank G. Clink, Redwood. " On motion a com- 
mittee was appointed to procure a place to hold the next meeting of the 
society, and to give up the rooms of the society in Watertown and dispose 
of the furniture." 

The semi-annual meeting, July 11, 1882, was held at the Kirby House in 
Watertown. The meeting was called to order by the president. Dr. J. R. Stur- 
tevant. Members present, 30; new members admitted, Drs. W. A. Vincent , 
and A. S. Low. "On motion of Dr. K. Hannahs the action taken by the 
State Medical Society in reference to the code of ethics was repudiated, and 
the action of the National Medical Association approved, and the society 
reaffirm its allegiance to the code of ethics adopted in its by-laws. On 
motion Carthage was chosen as the next place of meeting of the society. 
Drs. Hubbard and Miller were appointed a committee of arrangement. Dr. 
H. G. P. Spencer announced the death of Dr. E. G. Howland since our last 
meeting, and on motion Drs. Spencer, Streeter, and Deane were appointed 
to write a proper memoir and resolutions." 

Quarterly meeting, Carthage, October 10, 18S2: The society met at the 
Levis House at 10:30 a. m.. and was called to order by the president, Dr. 
J. R. Sturtevant. Members present, 17; new members admitted, Drs. C. S. 
Drury, of Natural Bridge, and H. D. Ringle, of Carthage. " Dr. H. G. P. 
Spencer announced the sudden death of Dr. A. R. Rudd, of Watertown, and 
on motion the following resolutions were adopted: — 

"Resolved, That in the sudden death of Dr. A. R. Rudd the Jeflferson County Medical 
Society has lost one of its most genial and respected members, the profession an untiring and 
devoted student, and especially the poor a kind hearted and sympathizing friend; and be it 
further 

'•Resolved, That the sympathies of the society be extended, not only to his immediate 
neighbors, but to the public in general for the loss of so valuable a member; but especially to 
his bereaved wife in her great affliction are the heart-felt sympathies of the society tenderly 
entertained and respectfully expressed, for the great loss she has sustained in the death of her 
devoted husband. 

"Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be presented to the widow and furnished 
the press for publication, and that the secretary be instructed to incorporate them in the 
minutes of the society." 

J. R. Sturtevant, M. D., was born at Sandy Hill, N. Y., May 1, 1847. He was educated at 
the common schools and at St. Lawrence Academy, and began the study of medicine at Can- 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 205 

ton, N. Y., in 1868, with Dr. J. C, Preston. He afterwards studied with Trof. H. R. Haskins, 
of Albany, and attended lectures at the Albany Medical College in 1870 and 1872, graduating 
from there in December of the latter year. He settled at Theresa, N. Y., February 3, 1872. 
and has continued to practice there to the present time. Dr. Sturtevant has been health 
officer for many years. He was elected a member of the County Society January 6, 1874, was 
president in 1882, and censor in 1880. 

Jacob Daab, a native of Germany, was born at Hopatine, September 19, 1854. He came 
to this country when he was 14, and landed in New York, where for some time he was a clerk 
in a drug store. He then studied medicine and graduated there. Dr. Daab settled at Kod- 
nian and remained there about one and half years, when he moved to La Fargeville, N. Y., 
where he died December 26, 1883, from scarlet fever contracted while in attendance on a case 
of this disease some miles from that village. Sick himself, he was called out in the night to 
visit his patient, who was taken worse. He caught cold, which developed into the disease. He 
never left the house to which he was called — another victim to overzeal in pursuit of his pro- 
fessional duties. Dr. Daab joined the ('ounty Society October 2, 1877, and was elected censor 
in 1882 and '83. 

1883. — Fifteenth annual meeting, January 9, 1883: The society met at 
the Kirby House, and was called to order by the president, Dr. J. R. Stur- 
tevant. Members present, 30 ; member admitted, Dr. F. M. Shepard. Drs. 
Pratt and McCombs each read an essay on the necessity of changing the old 
code of medicil ethics, which was followed by a general discussion and the 
adoption of the following resolution : — 

" lie^olved. That we rescind the action taken at the semi-annual meeting of the society in 
regard to the code of ethics, and that Sec. 1, Article viii., be stricken from the l)y-laws." 

The following officers were elected : President, Dr. C. M. Johnson ; vice- 
president, George M. McCombs ; secretary, Henry H. Deane ; treasurer, J. M. 
Taniblin ; censors, Drs. J. Mortimer Crawe, William R. Trowbridge, L. E. 
Jones, Jacob Daab, and A. S. Thompson. 

At the quarterly meeting held April 10, 1883, the society met at the Kirby 
House, and was called to order by the vice-president, George M. McCombs. 
Members present, 14. Dr. Streeter announced the death of ex-President 
L. E. Frame. Drs. Streeter, Low, and J. D. Spencer were appointed to pre- 
pare a memoir of Dr. L. E. Frame. 

At the semi-annual meet'ng, July 10, 1883, the society met at the Kirby 
House, and was called to order by the president. Dr. Charles M. Johnson. 
Members present, 35; new members, Dr. William N. Rand, Spragueville, 
and Dr. Caroline R. Conkey. " Dr. M. J. Hutchins, by request, read a 
memoir of the late ex-President L. E. Frame, which, upon motion, was re- 
ferred to the secretary for filing amongst the records." 

The quarterly meeting, October 9, 1883, was held at the Kirby House, 
Watertown, and was called to order by the secretary. In the absence of the 
president and vice-president Dr. H. W. Streeter was called to the chair. 
Members present, 23 ; new members admitted: Drs. Hiram A. Stearnes, Ant- 
werp ; E. H. Taft, Sackets Harbor; and R. J. F. Burton, La Fargeville. 

Charles M. Johnson, M. D., was born in Depauville, Jefferson County, June 10, 1839. He 
was educated at the public and private schools, and at the academy at La Fargeville and the 
Jefferson County Institute of Watertown. He began the study of his profession in 1860 with 
Dr. J. W. McDonald, and afterwards with Dr. H. G. P. Spencer, of Watertown. He attended 



206 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



lectures at the Jefferson Medical College, of Philadelphia, Pa., graduating therefrom March 
10, 1863, and began practice at Cape Vincent, N. Y. He remained here five years, and moved 
to Watertown, where he practiced 18 years, and then settled at San Diego, Cal. Dr. Johnson 
was assistant surgeon of the 99th N. Y. Inf. Vols, during the war of the Rebellion, and was- 
U. S. pension siirgeon nine years, during which time he was secretary of the board of pension 
examiners. He joined the Jetterson County Medical Society June 8, 1869, was its secretary 
from 1872 to 1876, vice-president in 1877, president in 1883, delegate to the State Medical 
Society from 1884 to 1888, and was censor in 1879. He is also a member of the New York State 
Medical Association, the San Diego County Medical Society, and the California State Medical 
Society. 

George M. McCombs. born in the town of Lyme, Jefferson County, in December, 1854,. 
received his early education in Fulton and Falley seminaries, and in Ives Seminary, Antwerp, 
N. Y. He began the study of medicine with Dr. Pierce, of St. Lawrence, in 1873. In 1874 he- 
entered Dr. H. G. P. Spencer's office, where he remained until 1877. He attended lectures at 
the Albany Medical College in 1875 and '76, and Bellevue Hospital Medical College, of New 
York city, in 1876 and "77. Returning he located at St. Lawrence, town of Cape Vincent, 
where he remained until 1879, when he moved to the village of Clayton, and has resided there 
to the present time, except two years he practiced at Auburn, N. Y. He joined the County 
Medical Society April 2, 1878, and was its vice-president in 1883. 

1884. — Sixteenth annual meeting, January 8, 1884: The society met at 
the Kirby House, and was called to order by the secretary at 10:30 a. m. 
Dr. L. E. Jones was elected chairman //(? tern. Members present, 31 ; new 
membpr admitted, Dr. D. L. H ibbard. "' Dr. Sabm announced the death of 
Dr. Jacob Diab, of La Fargeville, and the president appointed Dr. Hutchins, 
of Redwood, to write a memorial and present it at the next regular meeting." 

After)ioon session. — " Meeting called to order by the president. Dr. Charles 
M. Johnson, at 1:30 p. m. He read a very interesting address on Lower 
California as a health resort, for which he received a vote of thanks by the 
society." Officers elected: President, Dr. A. B.Stevens; vice-president, 
George N. Hubbard ; secretary, Dr. H. H. Deane ; treasurer, J. H. Tamblin ; 
censors, Dis. William P. Massey, George G. Sabin, A. S. Thompson, J. Mor- 
timer Crawe, and William R. Trowbridge. 

The quarterly meeting held April 8, 1S84, was called to order by the presi- 
dent, Dr. A B. Stevens, at the Kirby House. Members present, 21. Dr. 
M. J. Hutchins read a memoir of Dr. Jacob Daab. 

The semiannual meeting of July 8, 1884, was called to order by the presi- 
dent, Dr. A. B. Stevens. Members present, 20; new member admitted, Dr. 
F. W. H. Massey, of Brownville. 

The quarterly meeting held October 14, 1884, was called to order by the 

president, Dr. A. B. Stevens, at the Kirby House. Members present, 22. 

Andrew B. Stevens, M. D., was born in Canada, in May, 1841. His early education was 
acquired at the common schools. He commenced the study of medicine in Iowa in 1862, and 
in 1865 entered the office of Dr. A. H. Crosby, of Lowville, Lewis County. He attended lect- 
ures at the University of Buffalo, graduating from there in 1872, and commenced practice at 
Eiack River, where he continued until 1886, when he moved to Watertown, where he is now 
engaged in active practice. He joined the County Society June 2, 1874, was its president in 
1884, and its vice-president in 1882. 

1885. — Seventeenth annual meeting, June 13, 1885 : The society met at the 

Kirby House, and was called to order by the vice-president, Dr. George N. 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 20/ 

Hubbard. Members present, 13. " Dr. Crawe announced the death of Dr. 
K. Hannahs, and the chair appointed Dr. WilHam R. Trowbridge to write a 
memoir and present it at the next meeting." 

The quarterly meeting of April 14, 1885, was called to order by the presi- 
dent, Dr. George N. Hubbard. Members present, 16. 

At the semi-annual meeting, held July 14, 1885, the society met at the 
Kirby House, and was called to order by the vice president. Dr. George G. 
Sabin. Members present, 18. "The vice-president called the attention of 
the society to the death of Dr. William P. Massey, of Brownville, since the 
last meeting. On motion the vice-president appointed Drs. Crawe, Johnson, 
and Hutchins to draft appropriate resolutions and present them to the meet- 
ing." They presented the following resolutions : — 

'•Whereas, On the 22d of May, 1885. Dr. William P. Massey. late of Brownville, and a 
former president of this society, in the midst of his professional duties, was suddenly called 
from this life, 

" Resolved, That through this mysterious dispensation our association has lost one of its 
brightest and most useful membeis; society a genial and polished gentleman; and the church 
one of its most useful servants — one who, in his daily life, in all ways, followed closely in the 
foot-steps of Him whom he delighted to call master. 

" Resolved, That we extend to his afHicted family our most hearty and sincere sympathy in 
their great bereavement and irreparable loss; can only point to Him for healing and comfort,^ 
'Who doeth all things well and afiiieteth none willingly.' 

' ' J. MoRTiMEE Crawe, 1 

" M. J. Hutchins, y Committee." 

•'Chas. M. Johnson, \ 

The quarterly meeting of October 13, 1885, was called to order by the 

president, Dr. George N. Hubbard. Members present, g. 

George N. Hubbard, M. D., was born near Saratoga Springs, N. Y. He studied medicine 
with Dr. Conkey, of Antwerp, and attended lectures at Burlington, Vt., and at Albany Medi- 
cal College, where he graduated. He settled at Natural Bridge, where he remained 10 years, 
and then moved to Carthage, N. Y., where he practiced 25 years. He was coroner six years. 
Dr. Hubbard became a member of the Jeil'erson County Medical Society September 1, 1868- 
was one of its most earnest supporters, one of its originators, a member of the board of 
censors in 1870-71, vice-president in 1872, and president in 1885. He was a modest, retiring 
man, a well informed, careful, and conscientious physician, and an earnest Christian gentle- 
man, one who was deeply mourned by the church to which he belonged and by the community 
at large. When he died, November 26, 1886, it could justly and truly be said, "Well done, 
good and faithful servant." 

Charles M. Rexford, M. D., A. B., was born in the town of Watertowu, on the road to 
Burr's Mills, near Sawyer's Corners, April 23, 1855. He graduated from the Watertown High 
School, and entered Cornell University and graduated in the department of art, class of 
1878. Previous to graduation he had commenced the study of his profession with Dr. B. O. 
Wilder, of Cornell University. After graduation he returned to Watertown, where he con- 
tinued his studies with Dr. S. L. Parmelee, and attended lectures during 1880 and 1881 at the 
University Medical College of New York city, from which he received his diploma in 1881. 
He located in Watertown, where he has continued in practice to the present time. Dr. Res- 
ford was elected and served as coroner from 1883 to 1889, most acceptably to the community 
at large and honorably to himself. He has been a member of the Jefferson County Medical 
Society since April 5, 1881, and has acted as treasurer of the society to the present time. At 
its last annual meeting, June 11, 1890, he was elected delegate to the State Medical Society. 

1886. — The eighteenth annual meeting was held at the Kirby House^ 
January 12, 1886. "Meeting called to order by the vice-president, Dr. 



2o8 JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



George G. Sabin. In the absence of Dr. H. H. Deane Dr. F. M. Shepard 
was made secretary /;-<? tern." Members present, i6. Officers elected : Presi- 
dent, Dr. George G. Sabin ; vice-president, Dr. H. A. Mcllm^yl ; secre- 
tary, F. M. Shepard ; treasurer. Dr. C. M. Rexford ; censors. Drs. J. Morti- 
mer Crawe, WilHani R. Trowbridge, A. S, Thompson, J. H. Millrr, and D. C. 
Rodenhurst. "A motion was made and carried that the thanks of the society 
be extended to Dr. Deane for his faithful services as secretary." 

The quarterly meeting of April 13, 1886, was called to order by the presi- 
dent, Dr. George G. Sabin, at the Kirb^ House. Members present, 16 ; new 
member admitted, Dr. VV. H. H. Sias. 

Semi-annual meeting. July 13, 1886: "Meeting called to order at 1:30 
p. M. by the president. Dr. George G. Sabin." Members present, 20. 

" Special meeting, August 23, 1886, at the secretary's office : In the absence 
of the president Dr. Abell was made chairman, who appointed, as a committee 
to draft resolutions on the death of Dr. William R. Trowbridge, Drs. M. J. 
Hutchins. L. E. Jones, and Charles Parker. The committee reported the 
following resolution, which was unanimously adopted ; — 

" Whereas, It has pleased an Allwise Providence to remove from life and its cares and com- 
forts our eminently social and fraternal friend, Dr. William R. Trowbridge, and 

"Whereas, The said Dr. Trowbridge, during his more than 40 years of active practice of 
medicine and surgery in Jefferson County, has been an honor to the profession, and to our 
County Medical Society, of which he was a conservative, efficient, and active member; there- 
fore, 

"Resolved, That we attend his funeral in a bodj*, and extend our heart-felt sympathies to 
his afflicted family. 

" M. J. Hutchins. ) 

" L. E. Frame. >• Committee." 

" Charles Parker, ) 

The quarterly meeting of October 12, 1886, "was called to order by the 

president, Dr. George G. Sabin, about 1:30 p. m." Members present, 20. 

George G. Sabin, M. D., born in Ontario, Wayne County, N. Y., November 28, 1838, ob- 
tained his early education at the common and Palmyra Union schools and Macedon Academy. 
He studied medicine with his uncle, S. C. Sabin, of Palmyra, N. Y., attended lectures at the 
University of Michigan, and graduated therefrom March 25, 1868. He located at Denmark, 
Lewis County, where he I'emained one year, when he went to Carthage, where he was two 
years. He spent about four years in Iowa, and returned and settled at Woodville, this county, 
where he continued two years, and went from there to Stone Mills, where he stayed five years. 
He then removed to Black River in April, 1885, where he has practiced to the present time. 
Dr. Sabin joined the Jefferson County Medical Society January 11, 1870, became its vice- 
president in 1885, president in 1886, and was its censor in 1870, '84, '88, and '90. He has been 
health ofScer for the town of Rutland three years, is a Mason, and belongs to the I. O. of O. F. 

Frederick M. Shepard, M. D., born in the town of Denmark, Lewis County, N. Y., March 
3, 1858, attended the district, piivate, and select schools at Tylerville, the Watertown High 
School, and for some time taught in the town of Adams. He commenced the study of medi- 
cine with Dr. A. R. Rudd, of Watertown, in September, 1879, and entered the University 
Medical College of New York city in 1880, graduating in 1882. Since then he practiced in 
Watertown until failing health obliged him to relinquish his practice, and he is now at Den- 
ver, Col. He served two years as city physician, has been a member of the County Society 
since January 9, 1883, and has been its secretary from 1886 until he went West in 1888. 

De Witt C. Rodenhurst, M. D.,was born at Lowell, Oneida County, N. Y., January 26, 1885. 
He was educated at the district schools of Potsdam, the Normal School, and at Whitestown 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 2o8^' 



Seminary. His preceptors were Dr. J. R. Sturtevant and James E. Kelsey, of Theresa. He 
attended Ipctures at the University of New York in 1886, '87, and '88, and at the Long Island 
College of Brooklyn, N. Y., from the latter of which he graduated June 24, 1879. His first 
practice was at the Ox Bow, N. Y., where he remained two and one-half years, when he moved 
to Philadelphia, N. Y., where he now resides, engaged in the active practice of his profession. 
Dr. Rodenhurst became a member of the County Medical Society October 7, 1879, and was 
elected censor in 1886, '87, '88, and '90. He has been health officer, and is coroner at the pres- 
ent time. 

1887. — "Nineteenth annual meeting, January 11, 1887, at the Kirby 
House: The meeting was called to order by the president, Dr. George G.. 
Sabin, at 1:30 p M." Members present, 14. Ofificers elected: President, 
Dr. H. A. Mcllmoyl ; vice-president, James D. Spencer; secretary, F. M. 
Sliepard ; treasurer, Charles M. Rexford ; censorf, Drs. H. G. P. Spencer,. 
J. Mortimer Crawe, M. L. Smith, D. C. Rodenhurst, and George G. Sabin ; 
delegate to the State Medical Society, A. S. Smith in place of Dr. Charles 
M. Johnson. 

The quarterly meeting held at the Kirby Hcuse, April 12, 1887, "was 
called to order by the pres.dent, Dr. II. A. Mcllmoyl, at 1:30 p. m." Mem- 
bers present at roll-call, 14. 

The semi-annual meeting was held at the Woodruff House, Watertown 
July 13, 1887. The meeting was called to order by the president, Dr. H. A. 
Mcllmoyl, at 11 o'clock a. m. Members present, 18; new members ad- 
mitted: Drs. George H. Davis, Black River; J. Mortimer Crawe, Jr., and 
Gordon P. Spencer, Watertown ; L. G. Gifford, Rodman ; and Edward F. 
Johnson, Champion. 

"Quarterly meeting at Woodruff House, October 11, 1887: The meeting 
was called to order by the vice-president, Dr. J. D. Spencer, at about 1:30 
P.M." Members present, 16. "A communication from Dr. George M. 
McCombs, requesting to be restored to membership in this society, was read 
by the secretary. A motion was made by Dr. Vincent, and seconded by Dr. 
Hutchins, that Dr. McCombs be received into the society as a new member 
upon his surrendering his old certificate of membership. Carried. A com- 
munication from the secretary of the State Medical Society, requesting this 
society to hold its annual meetings in May or June instead of January, was 
also read." 

Henry A. Mcllmoyl, M. D., a native of Canada, was born April 5, 18.53, at Cardinal, Pro- 
vince of Ontario. He I'eceived his early education at the Iroquois High School, and entered 
the office of Dr. I. E. Morden, of Brockville, January 1, 1873. He attended lectures atMcGill 
Medical College, Montreal, from 1872 to 1876, and graduated in March, 1876. Dr. Mcllmoyl 
removed to Clayton, Jefferson County, in 1876. wliere he still resides, engaged in the active 
practice of his profession. He became a member of Jefferson County Medical Society April 3, 
1877, and was elected vice-president in 1886, president in 1887, and censor in 1880. 

Mason Lee Smith. M. D., born at Munnsville, Madison County, N. Y., Octobers. 1859, 
came with his parents to this county in 1866. His early education was obtained at the public 
scliools of Watertown, and he graduated from the High School June 20, 1877. He began the 
study of medicine with Dr. A. R. Rudd, in January, 1877, attended lectures in 1877, '78. '80, 
and '81 at tiie University Medical College of New York city, and graduated therefrom March 
8, 1881. Dr. Smith has always practiced in the city of Watertown. He joined the County 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



1 



Medical Society October 4, 1881, and was one of its censors in 1888, '89. and '90. He was 
elected coroner of Jefferson County in November, 1888. '89, and '90, and holds a commission 
as first lieutenant and assistant surgeon in the 39th Separate Co. N. Y. Inf. 

i888. — Annual meeting at Woodruff House, January lo, i888: "The 
meeting was called to order by the president, Dr. H. A. Mcllmoyl, at 1:45 
p. M." Members present, 22. " A communication from Dr. Jesse B. Low, 
making application for membership in the society, was read by the secretary. 
On motion the matter was referred to the board of censors to report at the 
next meeting." The following officers were duly elected ; President, J. D. 
Spencer; vice-president, Charles Douglas; secretary, F. M. Shepard ; 
treasurer, Charles M. Rexford ; censors, Drs. H. G. P. Spencer, J. Morti- 
mer Crawe, M. L. Smith, D. C. Rodenhurst, and George G. Sabm ; delegate 
to State Medical Society, Dr. H. H. Deane. " By request of the secretary 
of the State Medical Society, and upon motion of Dr. Jones, it was decided 
to hold the annual meetings of this society the second Tuesday in July, and 
the semi annual meetings the second Tuesday in January. A motion was 
made and carried that the question of medical ethics be laid on the table 
until the next annual meeting." 

The quarterly meeting was held at the Woodruff House, April 10, 1888, 
and was called to order by the piesident, Dr. J. D. Spencer. Members pres- 
ent, 18; new member admitted. Dr. Jesse B. Low. 

" Annual meeting at the Woodruff House, July 10, 1888: The meeting 
was called to order by the president, Dr. J. D. Spencer, at 10:15 a. m." 
Members present, 41 ; new members admitted. Dr. Kite Parker and Dr. 
O. C. Eastman, of Watertown ; Drs. W. O. Forrester, of Black Rivtr ; Frank 
R. Porter, of Sackets Harbor ; Fred C. Bailey, of Adams Center ; and J. W. 
Thompson, of Fisher's Landing. "The president appointed Drs. Sabin 
and Gifford as tellers, and on motion the secretary was instructed to cast a 
ballot for the present officers for the year ending June, i88g. On invitation 
of Drs. McCombs and Mcllmoyl, and on motion of Dr. Rodenhurst to ac- 
cept the invitation, the society adjourned to meet at Clayton the second 
Tuesday in September." 

" The quarterly meeting, held at the Walton House, Clayton, September 1 1, 
1888, was called to order by the president, Dr. J. D. Spencer, at 1 1 :^o a. m." 
Members present, 19; new member admitted. Dr. F. T. Dale, of La Farge- 
ville. "A motion was made by Dr. Deane that Dr. A. S. Low be rt e acted to 
membership in this society. A vote of thanks was given Drs. McCombs 
and Mcllmoyl as committee on arrangements." The society then adjourned 
for an excursion on the river. 

"Semi-annual meeting, held at the Woodruff House, Watertown, Decem- 
ber II, 1888, was called to order by the president, Dr. J. D. Spencer, at 
10:40 A. M." Members present, 29 ; new member admitted, Dr. T. C. 
Baker, of Watertown. 

"The quarterly meeting held at the Woodruff House, March 12, 1889, was 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 



called to order by the president, Dr. J. D. Spencer, at i r a. u." Members 
present, 31. 

James D. Spencer, M. D., son of H. G. P. Spencer and grandson of Gordon P. Spencer, 
was born in Denmark, Lewis County, N. Y., April 14, 18-19. He received his literary education 
at the Jefferson County Institute, Watertown, Eegiopolis College, Kingston, Ont., and Phillips 
Exeter Academy, Exeter, N. H. He studied with his father and attended lectures at Bellevue 
Hospital Medical College of New York city, from which he graduated in February, 1870. Since 
then he has practiced in partnership with his father in Watertown. Dr. Spencer joined the 
County Medical Society July 7, 1870, was its president in 1888, vice-president in 1887, treas- 
urer in 1872, and delegate to the State Medical Society from 1880 to 1884. He was also sur- 
geon witli the rank of major in the 35th Regt. N. Y. state militia. 

1889 — The annual meeting held at the VVoodrufif House, June 11, 1889, 
"was called to order by the president. Dr. J. D. Spencer, at 10:45 ^- ^^•" 
Members present, 31 ; new members admitted: Drs. A. J. Boyd, of Water- 
town, now (1890) at Sackets Harbor; A. K. Hale, of Adams; and George E. 
Sylvester, of Black River. "A motion was made and carried that Dr. Hale 
be reinstated upon his signing the constitution. Dr. McCombs moved that 
the next quarterly meeting of this society be held at Clayton. Carried. Drs. 
McCombs and Mcllmoyl were appointed a committee on arrangements." 
The following officers were elected: President, Dr. Charles Douglas; vice- 
president. Dr. C. G. Stevens; secretary, F. M. Shepard ; treasurer, C. M. 
Rexford ; censors, L. G. Gifford, J. Mortimer Crawe, Sr., M. L. Smith, D. C. 
Rodenhurst, and George G Sabin. "A motion was made and seconded that 
Dr. Low be reinstated and his dues remitted to date." 

"The quarterly meeting held at Clayton, September 10, 1889, was called 
to order by the president, Dr. Charles Douglas, at 11:45 ^- ^i-. O" board of 
the steamer Jessie Bain. Dr. M. L. Smith was made secretary /n? /<?;//.'' 
Members present, 17. " President appointed a committee, consisting of Drs. 
H. G. P. Spencer, I. H. Abell, and H. H. Deane, to draw up resolutions 
expressing the regrets of the society at the loss of our able secretary, Dr. 
F. M. Shepard, who has recently located in Denver, Col. A motion was 
made and carried that all further business be dispensed with, and that the 
society adjourn to meet at Watertown the second Tuesday in December." 

"Semi-annual meeting held at the Woodruff House, Watertown, Decem- 
ber 12, 1889, was called to order by the president, Dr. Charles Douglas." 
Members present, 24; new members admitted: Dr. H. H. Smith and Dr. 
Charles Rice, of Watertown. "The resignation of Dr. J. B. Low was re- 
ceived and accepted." 

The quarterly meeting was held at the Woodruff House, Watertown, Tues- 
day, March 11, 1890, and was called to order at 1:30 p. m. by the vice-pres- 
ident, C. G. Stevens, the president being absent, and he appointed Dr. H. H. 
Smith to act as secretary pro fern, in the absence of the secretary. New 
member admitted. Dr. J. Monroe Smith. 

Charles Douglas was born at Evans Mills, April 2, 1842. He was educated at the common 
and select schools of that village, studied medicine with Dr. L. E. Jones, of that place, and 
attended lectur3s at Ann Arbor (Mich.) University, the University of Buffalo, and Bellevue 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



Hospital Medical College of New York, from which latter institution he graduated in 1875. 
He began his practice at Rodman, Jefferson County, where he remained one and one-half 
years, when he moved to Dexter, where he has since been engaged in active practice. He be- 
came a member of the County Society October 5, 1875, was vice-president in 1888, and presi- 
dent in 1889. 

LaDette G. Gifford was born in the town of Brownville, one mile north from the village. 
His father moved to Watertown in 1863, when he was about five years old. His early educa- 
tion was obtained in the graded schools and in the Watertown High School. From 1875 ta 
1881 he attended school winters and acted as clerk in the hotel kept by his uncle, Charles^ 
Fenton, at No. 4, in the Adirondack region, Lewis County. He began the study of medicine 
in 1881 with Dr. L. M. Smith, of Watertown, with whom he remained a year, and con- 
tinued his studies with Dr. C. M. Johnson, of the same place. He attended lectures at the 
University Medical College during the sessions of 1882, '83, and '84, graduating in the latter 
year. Dr. Gifford began the practice of his profession at Rodman, where he was located five 
and a half years, and in October, 1889, moved to Watertown, where he now resides. He be- 
came a member of the County Society July 12, 1887. 

1890. — The annual meeting held at the Woodruff House, Tuesday, June i r, 
1 890, was called to order by the vice-president, C. G. Stevens. Dr. Charles Rice 
was appointed secretary />r^ /<;'/« New member admitted, Dr. G. H.Wood. 
The secretary was instructed to draw up resolutions i especting the illness of the 
president, Dr. Douglas:. Officers elected : President, C. G. Stevens : vice- 
president, E. A. Chapman ; secretary, Charles O. Rice ; treasurer, C. M. 
Rexford ; censors, L. G. Gifford, P. H. Johnson, M. L. Smith, D. C. Roden- 
hurst, and George G. Sabin. On motion of Dr. Hutchins the next session 
was to be held at the Crossmon House, Alexandria Bay, and the society ad- 
journed to meet there the second Tuesday m September. 

Calvin G. Stevens, M. D , is a native of Onondaga County, N. Y.. and was born at Fair- 
mount, March 31, 1862. He attended the Syracuse High School in 1879, and for two years was^ 
a student at the Syracuse Liberal Art College. In October, 1881, he began the study of his 
profession with Dr. O. D. Totniau, and was also a student of Dr. U. H. Brown. From October, 
1881, to 1884 he was studying and attending lectures at the Syracuse Medical College, wliere 
he graduated in 1884. He then visited England and attended the clinical lectures at St- 
Thomas's Hospital, London. Returning to Syracuse he was appointed house physician to St. 
Joseph's Hospital, and remained in practice in that city until December, 1886, when he moved 
to Watei-town, whei-e he has been located for the past four years, making diseases of the eye 
and ear a specialty. He became a member of the County Medical Society January 11, 1887. 
He is also an active member of the 37th Separate Co. N. Y. Inf. 

Eugene A. Chapman, M. D., was born at Belleville, N. Y., December 9, 1839. While still 
a boy his parents moved to Henderson, where he received a common school fducation. From 
1857 to 1859 he was a student at the Union Acadeii.y of Belleville, and began the study of 
medicine in 1859 with Dr. Daniel Nugent, of Henderson. He attended medical lectures at the 
University of Michigan, sessions of 1860-61, and the University of Buffalo, sessions of 1861- 
62, and graduated at the last named institution in February, 1862. Dr. Chapman com- 
menced the practice of medicine at Clayton in March following, and in June entered the mili- 
tary service as a first lieutenant of artillery. He was mustered into the United States service 
September 11, 1862, and was first lieutenant and adjutant of the 10th N. Y. H. A. until July, 
1863, when he was promoted to captain. In August, 1864, while stationed near Washington, 
D. C, he was examined before an array medical board, and on returning from the Slienaudoah 
Valley campaign found, at Winchester, Va., a commission as assistant surgeon, with orders to 
report to General Butler, at Fortress Monroe. He was assigned to the 127th U. S. C. I. in 
November, 1864. From January 1 to April 2, 1865, he was on duty at Point of Rocks Hospital, 
Virginia, and was with his regiment from Petersburg to Appomattox. After 30 days leave of 
absence, in June, he rejoined his regiment at Brazos Santiago, Texas, of which port he was 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 2o8' 

quarantine officer during the summer, and was mustered out of service in November, 1865. He 
began tlie practice of medicine at Henderson in 1866, and remained there until the sirring of 
1873, when, his health being poor, from overwork, he moved to Salamanca, N. Y., and worked 
for the Erie and Atlantic and Great Western railroads for one j'ear. His health improving he 
resumed the practice of medicine, at Salamanca, in the spring of 1874. In January, 1875, on 
account of the death of his wife, he returned to this county and began practicing at Belleville, 
where he has remained since, except for a short intei'val of three or four months in 1877, 
when he was at Little Falls, N. Y. He has been four times elected coroner of Jefferson 
County, for several years has been health officer of the town of Ellisburgh, and has, for the 
last four or five years, been president of the board of trustees of Union Academy of Belleville. 
He l)ecame a member of the County Society January 12, 1869, and was elected vice-president 
in 1890. 

Charles Orrin Rice, M. D., was born in the town of Cape Vincent, January 8, 1868. He at- 
tended the district schools and Ives Seminary at Antwerp. Jefferson County, and commenced 
the study of medicine with Dr. James D. Spencer, of Watertown, February 6, 1886. He at- 
tended lectui'es at the College of Physicians and Surgeons, of New York city, during the ses- 
sions of 1887, '88, and '89. and graduated therefrom June 13, 1889. Dr. Rice has practiced in 
Watertown since the latter date. He is a member of the Jefferson County Bledical Society, and 
belongs to the Masonic fraternity. 

The author deems it necessary, in justice to himself, to append some ex- 
planatory remarks in regard to the plan of his work. It has been my aim, 
and one of the main inducements that prompted me to engage in this work, 
to rescue from the oblivion that was about to surround them the members of 
the medical profession practicing in this county at an early day, belonging to 
the regular school, and especially those who, by their action in joining the 
old County Medical Society, manifested their interest in their work, and their 
desire to elevate the standard of their profession. The reorganized society's 
members are nearly all alive, and, before the public, can, as individuals and 
collectively as a society, by their conduct and their work, speak for them- 
selves. I have merely noted the time and place of their meeting, the number 
present, and enough of their transactions to show when and why the time of 
said meetings were changed ; the names of the new members, and their places 
of residence at the time they were enrolled ; resolutions of respect in cases 
of deceased members, and a short sketch of the officers of the society for 
each year. Thus I have shortened my task, and left a foundation on which 
others with more time and space can build. If any have been omitted it was 
not intentional, nor for want of zeal. This work, to be complete and 
accurate, should have years instead of months devoted to its preparation. 
I have been obliged from the limited space allowed me, for the large amount 
of work to be accomplished, to curtail my original plan as carried out in 
relation to the old society, and instead of giving a sketch of each member, to 
give sketches only of the officers of the society. By this plan, and much to 
my regret, I am obliged to leave out individual notices of many personal and 
highly esteemed friends, and many other very worthy members of the profes- 
sion. By request of the publisher an appendix has been added containing 
sketches of the physicians of the city of Watertown, who, from not having 
been officers of the society, were left out of the main body of the work. The 
publisher thought that the book would require about 8oo pages with about 

14* 



2o8° JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



lo devoted to the medical profession. Instead the work has grown until it 
requires about 1,250 pages to complete it and the medical department four or 
five times the origmal estimate. The number of physicians who have and 
are now practicing in the county were so much in excess of all our calcula- 
tions that a longer time and more space were required than was at first 
thought necessary, in order that I might do myself and the profession justice. 
All the members of the old society are dead with the exception of Drs. 
William E. Tyler, of Sackets Harbor, and M. J. Hutchins, of Redwood. 
Appended will be found a hst of the deceased members of the reorganized 
society: — 

N. O. Bemis, Adams. E. G. Rowland, Watertown. 

J. K. Bates, Watertown. G. N. Hubbard, Carthage. 

Charles W. Burdick, Watertown. William P. Massey, Brownville. 

Frederick Bott, La Fargeville. S. L. Parmelee, Watertown. 

Jacob Daab, La Fargeville. J. T. Peeden, Carthage. 

N. M. Davidson, Theresa. A. R. Rudd, Watertown. 

Amos Ellis, Clayton. D. E. Pierce, St. Lawrence, 

William H. Forsyth, Watertown. Truman Tuttle, Rodman. 

L. E. Frame, Depauville. WiUiam R. Trowbridge, Watertown. 

John Grafton, Watertown. Fanny G. Willard, Watertown. 

K. Hannahs, Watertown. 



J. MORTIMER CRAWE, M. D. 



J. Mortimer Crawe, M. D., son of Ithemer B. Crawe, M. D., was born in 
Watertown, May 2^, 1831. He was educated at private schools and the 
Jefferson County Literary and Religious Institute, studied medicine with Dr. 
H. G. P. Spencer, and attended lectures at Jefferson Medical College, Phil- 
adelphia, sessions of 1856, '57, '58, and '59. He first settled in Hamilton, 
Madison County, N. Y., in September, 1859. His health failing it was 
thought a change would benefit him, and he moved to Champion, Jefferson 
County, the following May, and in July, 1 861, he returned to Madison County 
on a visit. There were a number of cases of diphtheria in the village, and 
being solicited by some of his old patients, whose families were afflicted, he 

Note. — I am under many obligations for valuable information to Mrs. Hiram Hubbard, 
of Champion ; Mrs. William P. Massey and Mr. and Mrs. George Plumb, of Brownville; 
Mrs. I. Munson, Mrs. A. P. Sigourney, Mrs. E. A. Mattison, Miss Mary Zimmerman, 
Messrs. George Smith, C. William Clark, H. S. Munson, C. G. Comstock, and O. 
Hungerford, of Watertown; William H. Clark and W. B. Camp, of Sackets Harbor; 
and to Drs. Abell, Hutchins, Sabin, Sill, Ward, Willard, and Merrill. — J. Mortimer 
Crawe, M. D. 

* This and the following sketches were received too late to be printed in the places 
assigned in the respective years in which the several subjects held office in the Jefferson 
County Medical Society. — Editor. 



THE JEFFERSON COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 2o8^ 

consented to take charge of them, and finally concluded to remain permanently. 
In September, 1862, he went to the front as assistant surgeon of the 157th 
Regt. N. Y. Vol. Inf., raised in Cortland and Madison counties. When 
the army advanced that fall on Thoroughfare Gap he was placed in charge 
of one of the reserve hospitals at Fairfax Court House. Here he remained 
until March, when, his health having failed, he was ordered to Washingtgn, 
where he was ordered to report to Dr. Climer, in charge of sick and disabled 
officers, and by him was sent home on sick leave. He remained at home 
two months and rejoined his regiment at Aquia Creek, below Washington, 
on the eve of the march for Chancellorsville. Here with his wounded he was 
made a prisoner, remaining with them on the field for three weeks, when, an 
exchange being eftected, he returned to his regiment. His health having 
been affected by the anxiety and exposure he had endured he was sent home 
on sick leave. After a short time, learning that the army was about to move, 
he rejoined his regiment, and with them participated in the march to and the 
battle at Gettysburg. Having, by order of the medical director, been de- 
tailed both at Chancellorsville and Gettysburg as an operating surgeon he was 
detained here in charge of the sick and as recording officer of the nth Corps 
Hospital for about a month, when he was ordered to report to Gen. Hallack 
at Washington. He found his regiment had been ordered to Charleston, S. C. 
He served in this department until February, 1864, when he was promoted to 
the rank of surgeon and sent to the 128th Regt. N. Y. Vol. Inf., in Gen. 
Sherman's command at Savannah. Dr. Crawe served with his regiment as 
medical inspector and brigade surgeon until August, 1865, when they were 
mustered out of the sercice at Albany, N. Y. 

He was one of the founders of the reorganized Jefferson County Medical 
Society; was elected in 1868 and served as censor from its organization to 
1872 and from 1880 to 1886; was treasurer in 1873, vice-president in 1874, 
president in 18S5, and was delegate to the State Medical Society from 1886- 
to 1880. Dr. Crawe was made permanent member of the State Medical 
Society in 1879, ^"^d was one of its delegates to the American Medical Asso- 
ciation in 1878, of which he was made a member. In 1884, becoming dis- 
gusted and dissatisfied with the action of the State Society in regard to its 
Code of Ethics, he, with Dr. C. M. Johnson, of Watertown, then delegate 
from Jefferson County, and Dr. Ira H. Abell, of Antwerp, ex-delegate, in 
connection with many others, withdrew from the State Society and founded 
the New York State Medical Association. Dr. Crawe was its first vice-pres- 
ident. He was appointed pension surgeon about i86g, served some years, 
and resigned. When b'^ards for the examination of pensioners were formed,^ 
in 1 88 1, he was solicited, and accepted an appointment on the board for 
Jefferson County, and was its president for four years. He still continues in 
active practice in partnership with his son, Dr. J. M. Crawe, Jr. 

N. O. Bemis, M. D., a native of Massachusetts and a graduate of Berkshire Medical Col- 
lege, Mass., practiced many years at Adams, Jefferson County, where he died August 21, 1883,. 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 



aged 63 years. His death was caused by his horse running away, throwing him out of his 
carriage. He lived only a few days after the accident. Dr. Bemis became a member of the 
County Medical Society June 3, 1873, and was elected censor in 1875. 

J. H. Miller was born in the town of Hammond, St. Lawrence Coiinty, N. Y., February 12, 
1830 or '35. He was educated at the common and High schools of Theresa, and for some 
years he was a teacher. He studied medicine with the elder Dr. Davison, attended lectures at 
Geneva, N. Y., and Castleton, Vt., and was a graduate of the latter institution. Dr. Miller 
practiced at Hermon, St. Lawrence County, and Chaumont, Champion, and Carthage in Jef- 
ferson County. He became a member of the County Medical Society June 4, 1872, and was 
censor in 1875. He now resides at Glendora, Cal, 

William P. Massey was born near Watertown, September 23, 1824. His younger days were 
occupied with his studies and his diities as a clerk to his uncle. Dr. James K. Bates, who car- 
ried on a drug store and was postmaster at Brownville from 1840 to 1848, and he was his chief 
clerk most of that time. His character was the result of hard study and close appUcation at 
the select schools of Brownville, and as a student of the Black River Literary and Religious 
Institute of Watertown. During the winter of 1843-44 he taught school near Cape Vincent. 
He then regularly commenced the study of medicine with Dr. Bates, attended lectures at the 
University of New York during the sessions 1846-47 and 1847-48, and graduated in 1848. Re- 
turning to Brownville he was taken into partnership by Dr. Bates. In a short time Dr. Bates 
decided to move to Watertown, and Dr. Massey bought his business and property. He suc- 
ceeded beyond his expectations in building up a large practice, and in gaining to the utter- 
most the confidence, respect, and esteem of the community in which he lived. In August, 
1855 while returning from Pei'ch River, he was thrown from his carriage. When found he 
was lying in the road unconscious, his shoulder broken, his spine injured, and his limbs 
paralyzed. This so disabled him that he could not attend to his business until the next 
November, and then he had not fully recovered, as any overexertion or anxiety would pros- 
trate him, and on three or four occasions these attacks were of so grave a nature that his life 
was considered in great danger. This accident, by prostrating his nervous system, greatly 
interfered with his usefulness by limiting his powers of endurance, and was the main factor 
in shortening his life. He was naturally an energetic, ambitious man, and in spite of the 
incubus of his bodily ills he led an active life. The winter of 1860-61, with a view of increas- 
ing his medical knowledge, and to acquaint himself with all the new discoveries and additions 
to medical science, he spent in New York attending the lectures and visiting the various hos- 
pitals of that city. Coming home he again entered actively the ranks of the profession. In 
1881 he received the appointment of examining surgeon for pensions, and witli Drs. C. M. 
Johnson and J. Mortimer Crawe constituted the board of pension surgeons for Jefferson 
County, of which he was the treasurer. Dr. Massey was ever conscientious, painstaking, and 
courteous. In him the government found a good, faithful servant, and the pensioner a kind, 
sympathizing friend. May 22, 1885, he died while dressing the foot of a patient who had just 
been injured. He gave a groan, fell over, and lived only a few moments. Thus peacefully 
passed away the good physician, the kind friend; for in him was combined all that goes to 
make up the character of the good citizen and a Christian gentleman. 

William T. Burdick, M. D., son of Dr. Charles W. Burdick, is a graduate of Syi-acuse Uni- 
versity, class of 1875. He came to Watertown and entered into partnership with his father, 
remaining two or three years, when he went to Pamelia Four Corners, and practiced there a 
few years and moved to Fullerville, Lewis County, Ky., where he now resides. He became a 
member of the County Medical Society April 6, 1875, and was elected secretary and served 
from 1877 to 1888. 

S. L. Parmelee, M. D., was born at Stockholm, N. Y., February 21, 1829. He was educated 
at the schools of Jericho, Vt., until he was 18, when he went to Coburg, Ontario, and taught 
school three years. He began the study of his profession in 1850 with Dr. Baxter, of High- 
gate, Vt., and also with Dr. Day, of St. Albans Bay, Vt. He attended lectures in the winter 
of 1851-52 at Castleton, Vt., and was two years at Woodstock, Vt., graduating from the latter 
place in 1853. Dr. Parmelee settled at Gouverneur, St. Lawrence County, where he practiced 
23 years, and in 1876 moved to Watertown, where he practiced until his death, April 17, 1881, 
aged 52 years. His sudden death was a shock and surprise to the community, and he was 
mourned by a large number of friends and patients, to whom he had endeared himself by his 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS. 



ADAMS. 



ADAMS is situated in the southern part of the county, and is bounded 
on the north by Hounsfield and Watertovvn, east by Rodman, south 
by Lorraine and EUisburgh, and west by Henderson. It is watered 
by the north branch of Sandy Creek and many tributary brooks in the south, 
and by Stony Creek, with numerous small branches, in the northern part. 
Both streams are fed by springs and afford permanent water-power, which 
has been utilized. The surface of the town is generally level, except in the 
northwestern part, which is somewhat broken by the lake ridge which here 
traverses the town. The territory was originally timbered with maple, beech, 
birch, elm, and butternut, a considerable area of which yet remains. Cedar 
and pine also prevailed, and contributed largely to the early wealth of the 
town. The soil is generally fertile — a black mold, sandy loam, or a loam 
somewhat mixed with clay, underlaid by limestone, with outcroppings of this 
rock on high ground. There is very little waste land in the town, a portion 
of the most elevated being susceptible of cultivation. That which seems 
most sterile affords excellent grazing. 

This town was formed from Mexico, April i, 1802. It received its name 
in honor of President John Adams, and included No. 7, or Aleppo, and No. 
8, or Orpheus, of the " Eleven Towns," or the "Black River Tract." This 
area was maintained until No. 8 became a separate town, with the name of 
Rodman, March 24, 1804. 

Adams, or No. 7, fell to the lot of Nicholas Low, in the subdivision of the 
eleven towns, by ballot, and was surveyed by Benjamin Wright in 1796, into 
fifty-six lots, numbered from west to east and from north to south, commenc- 
ing near Henderson Bay and extending on the line of Lorraine. Mr. Wright 
complained of local attractions, that rendered it impossible to run straight 
lines. The lots varied in contents from 240 acres to 676 acres, and the 
whole made an aggregate of 26,505 acres. The town is nearly square, its 
sides measuring about six miles from east to west, and not quite seven from 

14* 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 



north to south. This tract of land had been mortgaged to William Constable, 
June 15, 1796, by Henderson, Low, Harrison, and Hoffman. It was assigned 
to the Bank of New York, but Low succeeded in getting a release, June 16, 

1804. 

The first town meeting was held at the house of E'iphalet Edmonds, March 
I, 1803, when the following officers were chosen : Nicholas Salisbury, super- 
visor ; Phineas Keith, clerk; D'Estaing Salisbury, John W. Smith, David 
Grommon, Jr., Thomas White, assessors ; Isaac Biker, collector; Thomas 
White, David Comstock, overseers of the poor; Paul Stickney, Jacob Kel- 
logg, Simeon Hunt, comn;iissioners of highways; Isaac Baker and Anson 
Moody, constables ; Daniel Comstock, David Smith, George H. Thomas, 
George Cooper, fence viewers; Jacob Kellogg, Benjamin Thomas, pound 
keepers ; Abraham Ri[)ley, James Perry, Enan Salisbury. John Cowles, Con- 
sider Law, Solomon Robbins, Hezekiah Tiffany, Thomas White, Daniel 
Mansfield, Asa Davis, Squire Read, Abel Palmer, overseers of highways; 
David Comstock, Simeon Hunt, deer reeves. 

At a special town meeting, held November 10, 1803, a remonstrance was 
voted against taking three ranajes of lots from the north side of the town to 
annex to the contemplated town of Newport ; also to agree to the division 
of the town on the line between towns Nos. 7 and 8. Wolf bounties of $5 
were offered in 1803 ; of $10 from 1804 to 181 5 ; and of $ 1 5 in 18 15. 

In 1880 Adams had a population of 3,302. The town is located in the 
first school distiict of Jefferson Courty, and in 1888 had 14 school districts, 
in which 19 t'=:achers were employed 28 weeks or more. The whole number 
of scholars attending school was 682, while the aggregate days attendance 
during the year was 68,234. The total value of school buildings and sites 
was $13,690, and the assessed valuation of all the districts was $1,870,305. 
The whole amount raiseil during the year for school purposes was $6,817.30, 
$4,352.94 of which was received by local tax. S. Whitford Maxson was 
school commissioner. 

Adams is a large and thriving post village located on the north branch of 
Sandy Creek, and is a station on the R., W. & O. R. R. 13 miles from 
Watertown, 169 miles from Albany, and 31 1 miles from New York. It con- 
tains two national banks, is the seat of Adams Collegiate Institute, has four 
churches (Methodist, Presbyterian, Baptist, and Episcopal), two hotels, a 
weekly newspaper, express, telegraph, and telephone accommodations, and 
the requisite number of shops and stores necessary to supply its 1,500 inhab- 
itants and the surrounding country. A daily stage runs to Belleville, Hen- 
derson, and Worth. The village was incorporated under the general act, by 
the Court of Sessions, November 11, 1851, and confirmed by a vote of 79 
to 51 on the 19th of December of the same year. The village plat includes 
812 acres. In 1823 an unsuccessful attempt had been made to obtain 
an act of incorporation, the notice of application being signed by Elihu 
Morton, David Smith, Benjamin Wright, and John Burch. The first trustees 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 



■of the village were John H. Whipple, Samuel Bond, Calvin Skinner, Calvin 
R. Totman, and Wells Benton. May 27, 1852, the village was divided into 
five wards, and a code ot by-laws adopted. The Rural Cemetery Associa- 
tion was formed January \j, 1848, of 33 citizens, who 1 lid out a neat and 
•quiet lot for the purpose in the eastern part of the village. Maple Wood 
Cemetery, in the northwestern part of the village, is one of the finest rural 
cemeteries in the county. A fire company was formed in Adams about 
1836, and a small crank engine purchased by voluntary subscriptions. Since 
its organization the village has made ample provision for protection against 
the destructive element. April 23. 1852, an appropriation of $650 was voted 
to purchase a fire engine and its necessary apparatus. May 24, 1853. the 
'•Tempest Fire Company "was formed with 44 men. The new water works 
have added largely to the protection against fire. 

Smithville is a post village on Stony Creek, on the west line of the town, 
lying partly in the town of Henderson. It is t2 miles from Watertown, five 
miles from Adams Center, five from Sackets Harbor, and six from Hender- 
son Harbor. It has telegraph, telephone, and express accommodations, and 
a stage line to Sackets Harbor. It has one church (Baptist), two stores, two 
truss factories, a grist and saw-mill, two blacksmith shoj)s, a cheese factory, 
and about 200 inhabitants. It was named in honor of Jesse Smith, one of 
the early settlers and a prominent business man. Settlement was begun here 
in 1804 by Daniel Hardy, who kept the first hotel here. Brooks Harring- 
ton was the first postmaster. 

Adams Center is a very pleasant post village of about 500 inhabitants, 
located about three and a half miles north of Adams village. It contains 
three churches (Baptist, Seventh-Day Biptist, and Seventh-Day Advents), a 
grocery store, boot and shoe store, drug store, hardware store, four general 
stores, a clothing store, two hotels, three blacksmith shops, three millinery 
shops, a grist-mill, sash and blind factory, a manufacturer of handy package 
dyes, two livery stables, a dealer in sewing machines and musical instruments, 
a lawyer, two physicians, a printing office, and a furniture dealer and under- 
taker. Settlement in this locality was first made in 18 r6, by Luman and 
Hiram Arms, on a farm just north of the village site. The first house where 
the village stands was built by a man named Priest, who sold out to Luman 
Arms before it was entirely completed. Jonathan Davis built the first store 
about 1830. 

Adams ColIe_^iate Institute was incorporated by the Regents, April 22, 
1855, but not tuUy organized when a proposition was received from General 
Solon D. Hungerford, of Adams, for a substantial endowment. The name 
was changed to " Hungerford Collegiate Institute," March 24, 1864. Under 
this name an academic school was opened in the S J. Mendell building, — 
known as the " Bisswood Hotel," located neir the sulphur springs and a few 
rods east of the present railroad depot, — with Rev. J. Dunbar Houghton as 
principal. About this time a very valuable mineralogical cabinet was pre- 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 



sented to the institute by Mr. J. G. Webb, which was nearly destroyed by 
the burning of the school building some years later. During the second' 
year Prof. David Holbrook, a former tutor of Hamilton College, became as- 
sociated with Prof. Houghton as vice-principal. During the administration 
of Prof. Houghton the school was noted for its thorough scholarship and ex- 
cellent discipline. Col. E. S. Salisbury and others maintained military drill,, 
materially aiding in the discipline of the school. January 29, 1868, the 
building was consumed by fire, and about $13,400 was paid by the insurance 
companies to the trustees. February 3, five days after the fire, a meeting of 
the trustees was held, when it was resolved to erect another building imme- 




ADA.MS COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE. 



diately. At this meeting the question of a change of site was introduced, 
and the site upon which the building now stands was selected. Gen. S. D. 
Hungerford donated the new site, and also made a very liberal cash dona- 
tion. The trustees had at their disposal about $16,000, and they were au-^ 
thorized to expend $20,000 in the erection of a suitable building for an acad- 
emy and boarding hall, that should accommodate at least as many students 
as the former building. About June i work on the new building was begun. 
The plans were by Prof. J. D. Houghton and Mr. White, of Syracuse. The- 
mason work was under the direction of Asa Lyons, of Adams. The carpen- 
ter work was done by William H. Wheeler, with David Gaylord as architect 
in charge. Both these latter gentlemen were of Adams. The building is of 
brick, 97 by 129 feet, four stories high, and is heated by steam and thor- 
oughly ventilated. The building was completed in August, 1870, and on the 
28th of that month school was opened with the following corps of teachers :. 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 



213 



Albert B. Watkins, A. M., principal; Orlo B. Rhodes, A. M., vice-principal ; 
Mrs. H. N. Butterworth, preceptress; Mrs. L. B. VVoodwarJ, teacher com- 
inon English; Miss L. Chatfield, oil painting and drawing ; Mr. W. H. H. 
Taylor, natural sciences and commercial ; Mr. Gustave Gunther, music ; 
Mrs. H. B. Watkins, Spanish and English. There are six courses of study : 
I, classical ; 2, English ; 3, college preparatory ; 4, scientific or engineering ; 
5, commercial ; 6, music. There are two literary societies connected with 
the school — Caiisop/iiand.nd Noiisas-Kean. The library contains about 650 
carefully selected volumes. The chemical and philosophical apparatus is 
full and complete, and there is also a first-class mineralogical cabinet, mainly 
the gift of WiUiam Rosa, M. D., of Watertown, and J. G. Webb. 

The building will accommodate sixty boarders and 200 day pupils. The 
school had its home in this building from 1870 to 1882, when the same was 
sold for debt, and the school was removed to a block in the business part of 
the village. The name " Adams Collegiate Institute " was restored by the 
Regents, November 16, 1883. August 28, 1884, the block in whicli the 
school was held was burned. Mr. and Mrs. D. A. Dwight, of Adams, in co- 
■operation with the trustees and citizens, purchased the Hungerford Collegiate 
building, $6,500, the insurance from the building burned, being applied 
toward the payment of the same. Mr. and Mrs. Dwight have conveyed this 
building by lease, subject to certain conditions, to the present board of trus- 
tees, one of the provisions of the present charter being that no person or 
persons shall have the power to encumber the institution with a debt of more 
than $100. This makes it impossible to again put out its light with the snuffles 
of the law. Since 1882 the institute has been under the management of 
Principal Orlo B. Rhodes, A. M., an alumnus of Brown University, a fine 
scholar and a cultured gentleman. During the years 1S84-85 119 students 
were in attendance. The grade of scholarship is high, and the faculty com- 
petent and faithful. The following corps of teachers constitute the faculty of 
the institution: Orlo B. Rhodes, A. M., principal, Latin, Greek, English litera- 
ture ; Mrs. A. H. Coughlan, preceptress, French and mathematics ; Mrs. L. B. 
Woodward, English department; Prof Herm Haydn, music; Lincoln 
B. Irvin, commercial, chemistry, and physics ; Mrs. W, D. Arms, painting 
and drawing; Miss Clara M. Cooper, elocution; Prof. R. S. Bjsworth, lec- 
turer on natural science. 

Students who complete the college preparatory course are admitted on the 
certificate of the principal to Hamilton, Williams, Dartmouth, Hobart, and 
Vassar colleges, and the universities of Madison, Rochester, and Vermont. 
The institute has cost the community, of which Adams is the center, more 
than $80,000. The situation of the buiUling is commanding; the prospect 
from its windows is wide and beautiful. Mr. and Mrs. Dwight have in their 
generosity off"ered the building to the Presbyterian denomination of Adams, 
free from debt, upon the condition of their giving it a perpetual endowment, 
the same to be used for school purposes forever. The citizens again contrib- 



214 TOWN OF ADAMS. 



uted to the repairs and the building was entirely refurnished at an expense of 
$5 ooo. The ladies of the town assumed the debt of $800 to put the chapel 
in repair. 

The Farmers National Bank, of Adams village, successor to the Adams 
National Bank, was organized May 29, 1889. with a capital of $65,000. The 
ofificers are: C. D. Potter, president; I. P. VVodell, vice-president; and 
G. W. Hannahs, cashier. The Adams National Bank was organized January 
2, 1883, with a capital of $50,000. VV. A. Waite was president and G. \V". 
Hannahs, cashier. 

The Citizens National Bank of Adams was organized August 7, 1889,. 
under the " National Bank Act," with a paid in capital of $50,000, and with 
the following directors : George Mather, Abel Bickford, Joshua W. Over- 
ton, Newton M. Wardwell, Lafayette Caulkins, William Mather, Talcott H. 
Camp, Willis A. Waite, Lucy J. Bullock, Anson S. Thompson, Charles A. 
Eastman, De Alton Rich, William H. Hathway. The ofificers are : George 
Mather, president; Lafayette Caulkins, vice-president; William H. Hath- 
way, cashier. The bank was opened for business September 9, 1889. 

Elunvood Cemetery is governed by an association bearing its name, formed 
in 1867, with James M. Cleveland as president and superintendent, who has 
had entire charge and control until the present time. The association was 
reorganized April 26, 1876, with the following board of trustees: B. Ran- 
dall, A. Maxon, W. M. Johnson, R. P. White, W. E. Overton, G. W. Will- 
iams, N. Vickery, S. D. Hungerford, J. M. Cleveland, W. A. Gilbert, H. 
Green, G. W. Bond. The cemetery contains about 20 acres of ground finely 
laid out and kept with conscientious care and taste. The title is perfect and 
the association is entirely free of debt. It contains two miles of beautiful 
drives, shaded by trees, through a little valley lymg between two ridges of 
land. In natural and acquired beauty it is a gem, and by common consent 
is regarded as the finest rural cemetery in Northern New York. It is ap- 
proached by Elmwood avenue, a third of a mile in length, shaded by rows of 
stately elms set by Mr. Cleveland personally. They now form a beautiful 
and complete arch over the entire avenue. The cemetery is entered through 
a handsome gateway. At the left as you enter is a fine Doric chapel and 
receiving vault, with excellent pieces of statuary presented by Mr. Cleveland. 
Passing along over a rustic bridge that spans a clear, winding brook you come 
to the family lot of Mr. Cleveland, in the ceriter of the cemetery, where his 
ancestors as far back as 1722 are buried, representing five generations. Some 
of these remains were sought out at great expense from obscure places in 
New England. This lot is adorned by a very fine monument surmounted by 
a life size figure of Memory, beautifully wrought in the attitude of casting a 
wreath of flowers upon the graves below. From this point a!l the beauties of 
Elmwood may be seen at a glance. Lots carefully laid out and made beau- 
tiful with fine monuments in memory of the beloved dead fill the valley and 
cover the ridges. Space forbids special descriptions, but the eye is satisfied 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 2 1 5; 



with seeing, and the better sentiments of the heart are gratified with the good 
taste and spirit everywhere displayed in this charming httle city of the dead. 
Here, if anywhere, one is reminded of the beauty of hfe and the blessedness 
of death. To have so fair a home to sleep in for ages steals away unawares 
the fears of dissolution, and makes one '" half in love with easeful death." 
The charming drives, the green grass, the shrubbery, the fragrant flowers, the 
bursting buds on hundreds of trees, the gleaming monuments, the air vocal 
with the songs of birds and the babbling of the brook, — all combine to make 
one say, " How lovely is this place !" Elmwood is the just pride of Adams, 
and the pet child of Mr. Cleveland's heart. Everywhere its beauty is his 
handiwork, its charm the product of his skill and faultless taste. It has been 
his care by day and his dream by night to beautify and adorn it. It repre- 
sents 20 years of almost constant labor and superintendence, and a per- 
sonal expenditure of $10,000. What has been the patient, unremitting care 
of his life is still the pride and pleasure of his old age, and the results are 
more than an adequate compensation in the assured prospect that Elmwood 
Cemetery will be to Adams, not only a thing of beauty and a source of joy for 
the present, but " a possession forever." It will be a monument to his devo- 
tion more enduring than the stately shaft which adorns the graves of his an- 
cestors. 

Adams Water Works was organized as a stock company by Muffett, 
Hodgkins & Clarke, now of Syracuse, in 1885, and were built the same year. 
They are located on the north side of Sprmg street, have a 30-horse-power 
engine, with an H. R. Worthington high-pressure pump — capacity 400 to 
600 gallons per minute. The water-tower on Doxtater hill is 15 feet in diam- 
eter and 40 feet high. Height of water above Main street, 120 feet. The 
main pipes are of cast iron, six and eight inches, and will stand a pressure of 
300 pounds to the inch. The village of Adams pays $1,000 yearly for fire 
purposes. Isaac W. Payne is superintendent. 

The Adams Electric Light and Pozver Company {Limited) was organized 
March 28, 1889, with D. A. Dwight, president; C. H. Wardwell, vice-presi- 
dent ; VV. H. Gillman, managing director ; Dr. W. H. Nickelson, secretary ; 
and W. J. Allen, treasurer. 

Maple Grove Place and Stock Farm, located in the southerly part of 
Adams village, on Grove street, was established by the present proprietor, 
R. P. White, in 1859. Among the most celebrated horses raised and owned 
by him the following are particularly worthy of mention : " Capt. Emons," 
with a record of 2:19^, sold for $5,500; " Wizz," 2:23^; "Buzz," 2:28; 
" Rufus," 2:29 ; '' Venus," 2:31, who sold for $3,500 ; four mares — " Floss," 
"Silk," "Satin," and "Velvet," three of whom were valued at more than 
$6,000. " Whitewood," raised by Mr. White, when less than three years old 
trotted a mile in 2:24. Mr. White is one of the most noted horsemen in the 
state. 



2l6 TOWN OF ADAMS. 



Adams flouring mill was built by Willard Smith, on the site of the old 
David Smith mill, about 1825. In i860 it was purchased by George Frasier, 
and in the spring of 1863 S. H. Pitcher became half owner. In 1879 Mr. 
Pitcher became sole proprietor. The mill has four runs of stones and grinds 
60,000 bushels of grain annually. 

O. De Grasse Greene s sash, door, and blind manufactory is located at 
Adams Center, and is run by water-power furnished by springs situated within 
100 rods of his mills, which give an adequate and unfailing power. Mr. 
Greene manufactures doors, sash, blinds, and house builders' materials, and 
does all kinds of custom planing and matching, furnishing employment to 
from two to 20 men. 

F. L. Webster s canning factory, in Adams village, on Railroad street, was 
established in July, 1889, and has a capacity of turning out 250,000 cans of 
goods annually. Mr. Webster makes a specialty of canning dandelion and 
spinach, and employs 60 hands. 

The Adams foundry and machine shop was first started in 1863 or 1864 by 
T. P. Saunders and D. O. Holman. After several changes in proprietorship 
the property, in 1881, passed into the possession of the first named gentle- 
man, who has since been its sole proprietor. The machine shop is 72 by 24 
feet in size and the foundry 72 by 32. Mr. Saunders employs about five 
hands in general job and repair work. 

The Adams Lumber Company. — Mills were established by Julius Fox 
about i860 for dressing lumber and manufacturing doors, blinds, moldings, 
and builders' supplies. In 1864 the works were purchased by William H. 
Wheeler, who subsequently (in 1865 or 1866) bought the old woolen factory 
by the bridge and converted the building into an addition to his works. Mr. 
Wheeler continued the business until April, 1889, when it was purchased by 
W. H. Proctor, of Ogdensburg, who immediately formed the Adams Lumber 
Company, with W. H. Pioctor, J. G. Idler, Thomas F, Strong, and George 
L. Ryan, of Ogdensburg, and J. A. Cameron and W. L. Pratt, of Adams, as 
partners. The company manufactures and deals at wholesale and retail in 
lumber, and as contractors are prepared to erect buildings of any kind. The 
works are located on Factory street, Adams village. 

Adams Fiirnittire and Manufacturing Company {Limited) was organized 
September 22, 1888; capital, $20,000. D. A, Dwight is president; A. W. 
Ingraham, vice-president ; John St. Clair, secretary ; G. W. Hannahs, treas- 
urer ; Edwin Gregory, superintendent ; and Dr. A. K. Hale and Harrison 
Fuller, with the officers of the company, trustees. The company occupies 
buildings 50 by 100 feet, three stories high, and 50 by 100 feet, two stories. 
In their engine room, 20 by 30 feet, is an 8o-horse power engine. They 
have a dry kiln 17 by 44 feet. 

Handy Package Dye Co., C. D. Potter, proprietor, is located on Church 
street, at Adams Center. The company manufactures handy package dyes, 




(X^n7 (ti^^.^. 




TOWN OF ADAMS. 217 



Excelsior bluing fluid, inks, and black walnut, mahogany, and cherry stains, 
and their goods find a market far and near. 

James H. AIoulfo?i s grist-mill, on Stony Creek, was built by Hiram Cook 
about 1807. Mr. James Moulton, Sr., bought the mill about 1835, and it is 
now run by J. H. Moulton. It has three runs of stones. 

SnelVs grist and feed-mill, at Adams Center, was built by W. D. & M. D. 
Snell in 1884. It is operated by steam. 

Muzzy cheese factory, two miles south of Smithville, was established by 
F. M. & J. B. Muzzy in 1864. It has a patronage of 250 cows. 

W. A. &^ E. J. JVaite's malting establis/iment was started by Rufus P. 
White, and was purchased by the present proprietors in 1876. It has a 
capacity of 40,000 bushels of malt annually. 

Although in the fall of 1799 many parties were looking for lands in the 
vicinity of Adams, yet no settlement was made until April 16, 1800, when 
Nicholas Salisbury, from Western New York, found his way into town through 
Lowville, by a tedious journey of 26 days, bringing with him an ox team and 
sled, his family and goods, fording the streams with great peril, and camping 
at night wherever necessity compelled them. Samuel and David Fox and 
Solomon Smith and son accompanied as hired men. John Smith, Francis 
McKee, Consider Law, David Smith, Peter Doxtater, and others, several 
with families, came into town and began small clearings, mostly in the valley 
of Sandy Creek. The terms of purchase were $3 per acre, and an obliga- 
tion to clear two acres and build a house within a certain time. In the spring 
of 1800 David Smith came in, taking up 500 acres of land including the site 
of the present village, where he built and operated a saw-mill. The same 
season witnessed the arrival of numerous settlers, mostly from Oneida County. 
Those on foot came by way of Redfield, but this route was then impassable 
for teams. The first acre of clearing was cut in May and June, 1800, by 
Samuel Fox,* three miles above the village. In 1801 or 1802 David Smith 
got in operation a very small grist-mill that superseded the stump mortars of 
the first season, and relieved the settlers from the long and tedious journeys 
to Cofifeen's mill in Rutland, or voyages in open boats from the mouth of 
Sandy Creek to Kingston. In 1801 Jacob Kellogg, John Cole, and many 
others moved in, and in the second or third following years a flood of immi- 
gration soon filled up the town, which everywhere presented small patches of 
clearing, rude huts, blind paths through the forest, destined to become roads, 
and from every side echoed the woodman's axe, that gradually prepared the 
way for cultivation. 

The first deeds of land to actual settlers were given August 20, 1802, to 
George Houseman, Peter Doxtater, Francis McKee, Robert Myrick, and 
David Smith. The first death in town was that of Alexander Salisbury, who 

* Mr. Fox, with his wife, remained upon this farm about 50 years and reared a family of 
12 children. 



2l8 TOWN OF ADAMS. 



was drowned March 21, 1801, while attempting to cross the creek above the 
dam in a scow. The first marriage is said to have been his widow to Daniel 
Ellis, June 8, 1802. In 1803 schools were begun at Smith's Mills. The first 
innkeeper in town was Abel Hart ; the first merchant Jesse Hale. Dr. 
Green is said to have been the first physician to settle in town. 
From Spaffoj'd' s Gazetteer (181 2) we quote : — 

" On the N. branch of Sandy Cieek in the S. part of this town is situated a flourishing 
village * * * by the name of Smith s Mills [now Adams village]. * * * Here are 2 
saw-mills, 1 grist-mill, 1 fulling-mill, a small air-furnace, 2 distilleries for grain spirits, a card- 
ing-machine, and a convenient variety of artificers, tradesmen, Ac. In the north part of the 
town are 2 saw-mills, 1 grist-mill, and a distillery." 

From the same author's Gazetteer of 1824 we learn that in 1821-23 ^^e 
village contained the postoftice, 45 dwellings, a church, school-house, several 
stores, and about 400 inhabitants. There were then in the town three grist- 
mills, five saw-mills, two fulling-mills, one carding mach'ne. four distilleries,* 
and 1 3 asheries. Tnere were, according to the census of 1820, 2,314 cattle, 447 
horses, 4,136 sheep, and there were woven, in families, 18,959 yards of cloth. 

CHURCHES. 

The Presbyterian Church of Adams village was organized as the " First Con- 
greguional Church of Adams," by Rev. Ebenezer Lazell, in July, 1804, with 
the following six members : Joshua Beals, Jacob Kellogg, Abram Griswold, 
David Comstock, Betsey Griswold, and Asenath Cooper. Religious meet- 
ings had been held on the Sabbath, in 1801, at the house of Jacob Kellogg, 
and in 1802 the first sermon was preached by Mr. Woodward, a missionary. 
From the time of the organization of the church until 1 82 i the church services 
were conducted according to the ordinances of the Congregational Church. 
January 29, 1821, while the Rev. George W. Gale was pastor, the Presby- 
terian form of government was adopted, and has prevailed ever since. The 
membership increased gradually, and in 1811, while Rev. Chauncy Cook was 
pastor, at a meeting held September 9, it was "voted that a meeting-house,. 
45 '^y 55 f^^^ the body to be painted white and the roof red, be built the 
ensumg season." Jacob Kellogg, Joseph Stirling, and Simeon Whitcomb 
were appointed to serve as a committee to superintend the building. This 
committee was inactive, however, and in 1814 Morris Homan, Joseph Stirling, 
and Jacob Kellogg were appointed to superintend the building of a church 28 
or 34 by 45 feet in size. It appears from the records that this building was 
commenced after some delay, and left m an unfinished state. July 5, 18(7, 
Joseph R. Rossiter, William Benton, and Elijah Wright were appointed a 

* Whiskey in those days was believed by many to be a necessary adjunct to the success- 
ful harvestinaf of the crops, the raising oi buildings, or the satisfactory issue of any " bee"^ 
and so, as the means of transportation was limited, local distilleries seemed to be as nec- 
essary as the blacksmith shop or the school-house. The county contained 33 distilleries. 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 219 



committee to draft plans and ascertain expense and devise means for finishing 
the meeting-house. The committee reported July 14, 18 17, and their plans 
and estimates were adopted. John Cowles, William Doxtater, and Elijah 
Wright were appointed a committee to superintend and receive proposals for 
building. It was also voted the pew ground be sold July 21st. Terms of 
sale, one-fourth cash in two months, one- fourth in four months, one-fourth 
in six months, and one-fourth in eight months. The house contained 42 
pews, and 36 of them sold for $2,300. The building was completed in 1818, 
and at the annual meeting August 25, that year, William Benton was chosen 
sexton. In a few years this church proved to be too small to accommodate 
the fast growing settlement, and in 1824, August 30, it was voted that a new 
meeting-house be built " if a sufficient sum can be raised." Francis McKee, 
M. V. V. Rosa, P. D. Stone, J. H. Whipple, and Rev. G. W. Gale (then 
pastor) were appointed a committee to procure a plan with expense of the 
same, and it was voted that the owners of pews in the old house receive 40 
per cent, on their stock in exchange for stock in the new house. In 1825 
the old church was moved off to make room for a new building. Worship 
was continued in the old church until 1827, when it was sold to William 
Grei ell for $102. November 25, 1825, the building committee (William 
Grenell, P. D. Stone, and Seth Gaylord) reported the house enclosed and 
ready for glazing and painting at an expense of $2,057. January 3, 1826, 
the society met and more than $5,700 was realized from the sale of pews. 
In 1858, at an expense of about $2,000, the church was thoroughly repaired 
and an organ put in. In 1850 the society purchased of R. B. Doxtater and 
S. D. Hungerford the Adams Seminary for a chapel, and it was used for that 
purpose until 1881, when a new chapel was built upon the church lot. In 
1866 the society purchased the parsonage on Park street for $3,300, and held 
it until 1883, when it was sold, and from the avails a new parsonage was 
erected on the church lot. In 1881 extensive repairs were made to the out- 
side of the church. These repairs included a new roof, a new tower, a new 
cut-stone foundation, a new chapel with kitchen attached, and new stained 
glass windows in both church and chapel, a new furnace put in, the total 
expense being $5,940. In 1884 the church was refurnished, carpeted, and 
decorated, and a new window put in the south end, the whole at an expense 
of $1,100, making in all for repairs of the whole church the sum of $7,040. 
The church was dedicated and reconsecrated by the pastor. Rev. James I. 
Root, December i, 1884. In 181 8 this church established the first Sunday- 
school in Adams, which is also said to have been the first Sunday-school in 
Jefferson County. Deacon Stone was its first superintendent. 

Adatns Village Baptist Church —On October 22, 1846, a number of per- 
sons holding membership in several Baptist churches in the neighborhood 
met in the " old school-house " for the purpose of prayer and conference, and 
exchanging views with reference to forming themselves into a Baptist church. 
It was resolved at this meeting that the several persons present should procure 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 



letters from the churches of which they were members with this end in view. 
The services of Rev. Charles Clark, of Denmark, who had been laboring in 
the vicinity, were secured, and at a meeting held November 14, 1846, articles 
of Faith and Covenant were adopted and resolutions passed to organize a 
Baptist Church. At a meeting held December 4, 1846, the following Baptist 
churches were invited to send their pastors and one delegate each to sit in 
council to consider the propriety of recognizing the newly-organized church : 
First Adams, Lorraine, Belleville, Henderson, and Smithville. The council 
met at the old '* engine-house," where the meetings were held from this time, 
December 17, 1846, and the church was duly recognized and the hand of 
fellowship was given. The sermon on this occasion was preached by Rev. 
E. Sawyer, the charge to the church was given by Rev. Thomas Bright, and 
the hand of fellowship was given by Rev. A. Webb. 

At a meeting held March i, 1847, a subscription was circulated for "the 
purpose of purchasing a site and building a meeting-house," and the amount 
raised at this time was $1,125. -^^ ^ meeting held March 9 it was resolved 
to build, and the following persons were appointed a building committee: 
Rev. Charles Clark, W. Warriner, Spencer Woodward, Jesse Wright, and 
Hannibal Miller. The house stood on the siteof thepresent church, and was 
built of wood at a cost of $2,000. It was dedicated October 9, 1847. The 
dedicatory sermon was preached by Rev. J. Freeman. 

In March, 1849, the church denounced secret societies and put itself on 
record as regarding "connection with such societies as inconsistent and sin- 
ful to all professing godliness." It is difficult to say, after a lapse of so many 
years, whether under all circumstances this was wise or otherwise. But it is 
clear that this movement greatly hindered the church in its work by causing 
dissension, discord, and even bitter enmity among the members for many 
years, and more than once threatened its destruction. The church grew and 
prospered until 1870, when the old building proved too small and inconven- 
ient for the growing congregation, and a movement was commenced for the 
erection of the present church edifice. On January i, 1870, the following 
were appointed a building committee: Rev. S. P. Merrill, Judge A. J. Brown, 
H. O. Kenyon, J. S. Brown, and A. W. Ingraham. The church was built by 
H. A. Wheeler and Asa Lyons, of this village. The total cost of the building 
and furnishing was $30,000, and $12,000 of this amount was paid by the 
Kenyon family. The church has had 13 pastors, their names and terms of 
service being as follows: Rev. Charles Clark, November 14, 1846, to Octo- 
ber 6, 1850; Rev. C. M. Manning, October 12, 1850, to March 26, 1854; 
Rev. A. Cleghorn, July i, 1854, to February 28, 1857 ; Rev. H. C. Beals, 
July II, 1857, to November i, 1858; Rev. William Garnett, January i, 
i860, to January r, 1861; Rev. I. N. Hobart, March i, 1861, to March i, 
1866; Rev. Thomas Cull, September i, 1866, to September i, 1868; Rev. 
S. P. Merrill, December i, 1868, to December i, 1873 ; Rev. William Ost- 
ler, April 1, 1874, to October i, 1875; Rev. W. H. Hawley, January i, 1876, 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 



to May 23, 1880 j Rev. A. M. Hopper, D. D., October 24, 1880, to April r. 
1882 ; Rev. G. E. Farr, October i, 1882, to August i, 1885. The present 
pastor, Rev. Thomas Simpkins, commenced his labors January i, 1886. 

The following persons have served the church as deacons, and dates whei't 
they were elected: Jesse Wright, 1847; Samuel Harmon, 1848; James 
Wheeler, 1850; William Wooltvorth, 1855; Horace Brown, 1866; Henry F. 
Overton, 1874; Henry J. Brimmer, 1874; William H. King, 1878; Albert 
Washburn, 1878. The present deacons are Samuel Harmon, William Wool- 
worth, Horace Brown, Albert Washburn, and H. F. Overton. The rest have 
died or moved away. The following have been the Sunday-school superin- 
tendents: Hannibal Miller, Libbeus Andrus, W. D. Cook, E.ev. I. N. Hobart, 
A. J. Brown, J. O. Brown, and H. F. Overton. The present superintendent 
is Prof. O. B. Rhodes. The present membership of the church is 290, and 
that of the Sunday-school 225. 

Emanuel Protestant Episcopal Church, of Adams, was organized in 1849^ 
with 10 members, the Rev. J. M. Bartlett being rector. October 9, 1849, ^^^ 
corner-stone of a church was laid, and it was completed at a cost of $2,000. 
Henry B. Whipple and William M, Johnson were chosen wardens ; and John 
McCarty, David Gaylord, Hiram Salisbury, Philip R. Ward, John VVright, 
Justus Eddy, Charles W. Rogers, and Thomas Dobson, vestrymen. Rev. T. 
F. Wardwell succeeded the Rev. Mr. Bartlett as rector, and remained a year. 
The other rectors of the church have been the Revs. O. E. Herrick ; William 
Paret, 1861-63 ; J- H. Bowling, 1865 ; L. Weaver, 1866; Jedediah Winslow, 
1866; E. DoUoway, 1867 ; VV. H. Lord, 1867-69; D. E. Leveridge, 1870- 
71; George Hepburn, 1871; A. H. Ormsbee, 1872-76; F. B. A. Lewis, 
1877-7S; George Bowen, Jr., 1879-83; E. Moyses, 1883-86; William 
Cooke, 1886, the present rector. April 28, 1875, a rectory was purchased 
on Main street for $2,300. The present membership of the church is 142,. 
and the church property is valued at $3,500. In connection with the church 
is a flourishing Sabbath-school, of which the rector is superintendent, and 
W. G. Bentley is assistant superintendent. 

Adams Center Baptist Church. — About 50 members having withdrawn 
from the old Adams church, for the purpose of forming themselves into a 
church at the Center, on December 17, 1852, they were organized with the 
above name. Abram Sheldon, J. W. Horton, and L. Allen were elected 
deacons. In March, 1853, the " Adams Center Baptist Society " was formed^ 
with 32 members, and Oliver McKee, Ezra Hull, and Silas Glasier, trustees. 
The following summer a fine frame church, 44 by 60 feet, with a tower in 
front, was erected on the principal street of the village, at a cost of $3,500. 
It will comfortably seat 400 persons. J. F. Nelson is the present pastor. 
Dea. Edward Dillon is superintendent of the Sunday-school, wliich is in a 
flourishing condition. 

Adams First Baptist Church, located at State Road, was organized in. 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 



1805.* and Timothy Heath was the first pastor. In 1825 their first church 
builHing, a wood structure, was built, one mile east from Adams Center, on 
the State road, and in 1838 their present house of worship, also of wood, was 
erected at a cost of about $6 000. The present value of church property, 
including buildmgs and grounds, is $8,000. William Gussman is the present 
pastor. The Sunday-school has a membership of iio, with V. W. Heath, 
superintendent. 

The Seventh Day Advent Church, of Adams Center, was organized in 
1863, by J. N. Andrews, with about 17 members. Their first house of wor- 
ship was erected of wood in 1852, at a cost of about $2,000, and will com- 
fortably seat 350 persons. The present number of members is 44. Mrs. 
C. VV. Wright is superintendent of the Sunday-school. 

The First Methodist Episcopal Church, of Adams village, was organized 
in 1827, by Rev. Elisha Wheeler. The trustees elected were Laban Ross, 
Philip Younge, Divid Wright, Z^ephaniah Jacker, Chester McKee, Daniel 
Dikeman, and John Adams. Rev. William W. Ninds was the first pastor. 
Their first house of worship, a wooden structure, was erected in 1831. 
Their present edifice, also of wood, was built in 1852, at a cost of $10 oco, 
will comfortably seat 400 persons, and is now valued, including grounds and 
other church property, at $13,000. The present membership is 285, under 
the pastoral charge of Rev. I. D. Peasley. The Sunday-school has a mem- 
bership of 300, with Hon. I. L. Hunt, superintendent. Hon. James G. 
Kellogg is president of the board of trustees. 

JAMES M. CLEVELAND. 

The history of the town of Adams and of Jefferson County would not be 
complete, nor should it be written, without prominent mention of James M. 
Cleveland, an old and nearly life-long resident of Adams. Mr. Cleveland 
was born in 1820, from a family early identified in the history of New Er.g- 
land, and is a direct descendant of Moses Cleveland, who came from Suffolk 
County, England, in 1635, and settled in \Voburn, Mass., as appears by the 
custom house lists and militia rolls at that date ; and from said Moses Cleve- 
land can be directly traced, as descendants, all persons bearing the Cleveland 
name in the Northern states. Mr. Cleveland was educated for and com- 
menced life as a farmer, and up to 1851 was successful in his vocation, and 
by industry and foresight paying for and owning a fine property in the 
town of Adams. He was always a thinking man, not only devising schemes 
for his own advancement, but for the benefit of the agricultural community 
in which he lived. He was a prominent and valuable member of the agri- 
cultural societies of Jeff.irson County, and was always looked up to as a 
man of excellent judgment. In 1851 he conceived the idea and established 

* Mrs. E. J Clark, in Transactions of Jefferson County Historical Society, published in 
1887, gives this date as 1804. 



i 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 



223 



at Adims the business of growing peas, beans, and other seeds for seed pur- 
poses for the donnestic and foreign markets. This was the first business of 
the kind ever estabhshed in Northern New York, and proved of incalculable 
value to the farmers of his town and of Jefferson County, whose lands were 
so well adapted to the cultivation of such products, and furnished them a fine 
income from their farms, as hundreds can testify who have paid for homes 
out of this industry alone. Mr. Cleveland conducted this busmt-ss from 1851 
to 1877, when the business was removed to Cape Vincent, and subsequently 
to New York city. As long as Mr. Cleveland was interested in the business 
it was one of the finest enterprises in the state, and from which he retired 
with a competency. The farmers of this county will for years to come grate- 
fully remember Mr. Cleveland for the advantages he furnished them, and the 
fair dealing which characterized his transactions with them. Few men, and 
■certainly no other rnan in this section of the country, have been endowed 
with the love of the beautiful and taste for adornment of nature in an equal 
degree with Mr. Cleveland. His house and grounds where he resides are 
arranged with the finest idea of symmetry, aid a veritable paradise of fl )wers 
greets the eye of the visitor in their season, and his neighbors and friends 
delight in viewing his collections and asking his advice in laying out and 
beautifying their homes. The people of the village of Adams have fully ap- 
preciated this quality on the streets and improvements of different kinds 
affecting the public. 

Mr. Cleveland has always borne an enviable reputation for honesty, integrity, 
and charity. He has been foremost in the advancement of all the interests 
whicli pertain to the best advantage of his village and the community in which 
he lives. All of the religious societies of Adams have in time of need met 
with liberal donations from him, and the cause of education has received sub- 
stantial tokens of his liberality from the competence which he enjoys. The 
poor and needy have cause in every instance to thank him for kindly re- 
membrance in their adversity, and on all occasions sjjeak of him in terms of 
praise. In rounding out a life full of business activity Mr. Cleveland can rest 
assured that he is and will be gratefully remembered by his fellow citizens. 

In politics Mr. Cleveland has always been a Democrat, and though not in 
any sense a politician, has always stood well in the councils of his party. In 
1880 he was nominated for member of Assembly for the First Assembly 
District of Jefferson County ; and though the district was hopel.ssly Repub- 
lican, he made a very successful canvass and lead his ticket throughout the 
district, showing in an etninent degree his personal popularity. Though the 
general public attest to his worth, yet it is in his own village that he is most 
appreciated.. Eight times have the citizens of Adams elected him to the 
presidency of the village, and each time by majorities that have made his 
election almost unanimous ; showing their appreciation of his judgment and 
conservative actions in controlling their municipal affairs. 

Mr. Cleveland is a man of culture and information, which has been acquired 



224 TOWN OF ADAMS. 



by contact with men and affairs, augmented by wide experience in travel and 
research. At various times in his life, on business and pleasure, he has 
visited nearly all the cities of note in his own country, and traveled through 
the South and on the Pacific coast, visiting all the places of interest, thus 
acquiring an inexhaustible store of knowledge upon topics connected with 
his country which it is a pleasure to hear him recount, enjoyed by his neigh- 
bors and friends. 

DE ALTON DWIGHT. 

De Alton Dwight was born in Henderson, Jefferson County, September 25, 
1825. He was the son of Dr. Pelatiah Dwight, who was born in Somers, 
Conn., January 14, 1785, and died in Adams, N, Y., December 12, 1882, 
aged nearly 98 years. His genealogy is traceable directly back through seven 
generations to John Dwight, the -settler who came over from England in 1634 
or 1635 and settled in Dedham, Mass. From him it is believed sprung all 
who bear that honored name in this country, — a name traceable far back in 
English history. His mother, Azubah (Redway) Dwight, daughter of Pre- 
served and Azubah Redway, was born in Galway, N. Y., August 25, 1792, 
was married in Adams, N. Y., July 9, 1822, and died in Henderson, April 6, 
1871, aged 78 years. The family records show his ancestors to have been 
very long-lived ; his father, Pelatiah, attaining the age of 98, his grandfather, 
Alpheus Dwight, 85, his grandmother, Phanna (Prentice) Dwight, 97, and his 
great-grandmother, Dorothy (Sexton) Prentice, 99. 

The subject of this sketch engaged in his first business enterprise in 1847, 
with his brother-in-law, Dea. Horace Brown, in Henderson, where they car- 
ried on a lumbering business successfully together for five years. He then 
purchased a farm in the same town, upon which he lived two years. Having 
sold this he purchased another, in 1857, in Belleville, where he lived four 
years. He then moved to Adams, in 1861, and purchased a book store, just 
five days before the firing upon Fort Sumter. There was also connected with 
the store a news agency, where were sold, during the excitement of the 
war, as many as 200 daily papers to this small village of 1,400 inhabitants, 
and the surrounding country, an evidence that Adams was not behind in 
eagerness for news from the front in those perilous times. Mr. Dwight still 
continues the same business. In 1882 he purchased a part of his grandfather 
Redway's farm, which he still continues to own. In 1887 and 1888 he 
took a deep interest, in common with many others, in the material interests 
of the village of Adams, and gave liberally to various measures for their ad- 
vancement. With others he formed the Adams Furniture and Manufacturing 
Company (limited), and was one of its first directors and president of the 
board. He also, with others, upon its completion, purchased the plant of the 
Adams Electric Light and Power Company (limited), and was the first presi- 
dent of the company. He was an incorporator of the Adams National Bank,. 




■k9 '.^. =^^^.■ 




TOWN OF ADAMS. 



225 



and one of the directors during its existence, from January i, 1883, until its 
dissolution, in 1889. He was also one of the founders of the Farmers Na- 
tional Bank of Adams, which commenced business July 8, 1889, and is now 
one of its directors. 

Mr. Dwight's connections with the educational interests of the county 
began in 1852, as a teacher of common schools, an occupation which he con- 
tinued for four successive winters, during which time he was elected commis- 
sioner of the common schools of the town of Henderson. During his term 
of office he assisted in establishing the first teachers' institute in the county, 
which was held at Watertown, October 9, 1854. In 1882, when the Hunger- 
ford Collegiate Institute of Adams was discontinued, he, with his devoted 
wife, purchased the Cooper House, and rented it to the newly-incorporated 
Adams Collegiate Institute, which organization afterwards bought the build- 
ing. He was one of its first trustees, and after the removal to Albany of Dr. 
A. B. Watkins, the first president of its board of trustees, Mr. Dwight v/as 
elected to that honorable position, which he has held to the present time 
(1890). 

The institute to which Gen. S. D. Hungerford gave so liberally of his time 
and money, and which, passing through various misfortunes, had finally been 
sold, was bought back m 1884 by Mr. and Mrs. Dwight, m cooperation with 
the trustees and citizens, and was offered to the Presbyterian denomination 
upon their giving it a suitable endowment to insure its becoming a permanent 
Christian school. This noble object has been the desire of their lives, and 
they fondly hope to see it accomplished. 

When the Washingtonian temperance movement first swept over this countv, 
in 1842 and '43, Mr. Dwight became one of its ardent supporters, and has ever 
since been a persistent temperance worker. In Henderson he was secretary c f 
the temperance society during its existence. In the spring of i856 he was a 
charter member of the Good Templars Lodge in Adams, and one of its lead- 
ing officers during its entire existence. He was also one of the founders of 
the Jefferson County Lodge of Good Templars, and held his full share of the 
offices, both as secretary and chief templar. During the " Reform Club '' 
effort he was also fully identified with the cause. In the endeavor to carry 
and enforce the local option law he has been among its best supporters in the 
town, having lectured in nearly every school-house and church in Adams, and 
in many of the adjoining towns, laboring side by side with that devoted 
apostle of temperance. Rev. Silas W. Hatch. 

June 4, 1854, Mr. Dwight was married to Catherine S., daughter of Dea. 
Amasa and Sarah (Hopkins) Brown, (daughter of Judge Jesse Hopkins, 
of Henderson,) who has since been the sharer of his toils and the comfort of 
his life. She united with the Congregational Church at Smithville at the 
early age of 1 1 years. During her married life siie has been connected with 
the same church with her husband, to which it has been her chief delight to 
give her best services and liberal gifts. The devotion and generosity extended 

15* 



^26 TOWN OF ADAMS. 



to the institute in its time of need saved it and enabled it to maintain its 
high rank, and gave it its present sound financial standing free from debt. 
Mr. and Mrs. D wight's daughter, Ella M., married Charles H. Ward well, an 
estimable young man of Adams, who carries on a successful business in grow- 
ing seeds. They have two little sons, their eldest son, D^-ight, having died 
during the summer of i8Sg. 

Mr. D vight united with the Odd Fellows Lodge in its early history, filling 
all its offices and sharing all its honors. But to the church of God his greatest 
efforts have been put forth. He indulged a hope in the Saviour at the 
early age of 17, and being of Puritan stock naturally gravitated to the 
Presbyterian Church. There being no such church in his native town he 
united with the one in Adams, and has since remained a member thereof 
except during his stay in Belleville, where he united with the Presbyterian 
Church and was elected a ruling elder, which office he has continued to fill in 
the church in Adams since May, 1867. The Sabbath-school has also received 
a large share of his attention, having filled the offices of teacher and super- 
intendent during the most of the time since his connection with the church. 

Mr. and Mrs. Dwight have always been earnest and active promoters of the 
religious, educational, and social interests of the community, and now in the 
maturity of their lives their woiks do follow them. Their hearts are still 
■warm with sympathy, and their purses open for every good cause. 

FAMILY SKETCHES. 

William Thomas, one of the early pioneers of Adams, left Halifax, Vt., in March, 1801, 
with his wife, seven sons, and two daughters, traveling with an ox team and sled, to seek a 
home in the then "far west." They came via Baonville and Lowville, the jom'uey, a portion 
of which was thronarh the tracldess wilderness, occupying 25 days. Tlieir children were Ben- 
jamin, who died in Orleans County; Ira A., who died in Adams in 1859; Luciuda (Mrs. Sam- 
uel Hubbard), who died in Clayton; Joel, who died at the age of 90 years; James, Polly (Mrs. 
Elihu Putnam), Ezra, and William, who died in this town. Ira A. Thomas, born in 1779, 
married Lucy Allen, of Vermont, in 1799, and their children were Eimice (Mrs. D. Walker), 
Lois (Mrs. Ezra Putnam), Piuth, Lucy (Mrs. Rev. David Walker), Ira A., Jr., and Capt. 
Lewis N. The latter was born on the homestead in this town in 1818, and was educated at 
Cazenuvia Academy. He married Abbie, daughter of James and Abbie (Thurston) Searles, 
in 1838, by whom he had two sous, Sanford S. and William H. S. Capt. Thomas was acci- 
<Ientally killed by the cross-bar of his barn door being blown against his he«d, August 24, 
1863. William H. S. Thomas, born in 1840, married, tirst, Fanny J., daughter of John M. 
and Philamelia (Stoddard) Seails, in 1868, who died in 1876. In 1880 he married Mary 
A., daughter of James and Ann (Erwin) Gregg, by whom he has two sons and one daughter, 
viz.: Lewis N., Ira A., and Cynthia G. Mr. Tl.omas is a dairyman and farmer, and owns 
and occupies the homestead farm of 425 acres, on road 61, which has never been owned out 
of the Thomas family. 

Sanford S. Thomas, son of L. Newell and Abbie (Searles) Thomas, was born in Adams in 
1838, and was reared upon a farm. He married Pliila M., daughter of Irving and Phila 
(Whetter) Spencer, of Eliisburgh, in 1860, by whom he has had live sons and three daughters, 
viz.: Jennie E., Newel S.. Bernard 8., George C, Frank B., Fannie A. (deceased), James C, 
and Ruth A. Mr. Thomas is a wholesale seed grower and resides on road 62. 

Peter Doxtater, Sr., son of George, was born in 1750. He came from German Flats, Her- 
kimer County, with his wife and six children, about 1802, and located where Howard Brainard 
now lives. He married Elizabeth Cunningham, and their children were George, William, 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 



227 



Jdhn, Peter, Betsey, und Elijah. Tliev came up the Moliawk Kiver in a flat-boat, purchased 
supplies ill Utica, then proceeded to Oneida Laue. thence through tlie Os\vej;o Eiver to Lake 
Ontario, along the shore of which they slowly worked their way to Big Sandy Creek. There 
were only a few families in Adams at this time, and Mr. Doxtater's was the tirst deed given in 
the town. In liis youth Mr. Doxtater was captured, with three brothers and sisters, and taken 
to Canada, where he remained three years. He died in Adams in 1842, aged 92 years. Peter, 
Jr., born in 1792, married Lorauy, daughter of Ebenezer and Innocent (Hnlburt) Blackstone, 
of New Hartford, Oneida County, in 1816, and they reared three daughters, viz.: Delia A. 
(Mrs James G. P< ase), Sopluonia (Mrs. R E. Smiley), of Watertown, and Elizabeth C. (Mrs. 
S. N. Bond), of Adams. Mr. Doxtater died in 1875. Mr. and Mrs. J. G. Pease were married 
in 1841. They had tliree sons and one daughter, viz.: De Alton J., who died in Minnesota in 
1885: Brayton E., who died in Peru, S. A., in 1868, aged 20 years; Enoch, who died in 1853, 
aged two years; and Li/zie E. Mrs. Peter Doxtater, Jr.. at the age of 88 years, resides with 
her daughter, Mrs. Pease, on North Main street. 

George Doxtater, son of Peter and Elizabeth (Cunningham) Doxtater, born in 1780, came 
to Adams in 1802. He married Mary Biodoch, in 1809, by whom he had three sons and hve 
daughters, viz.: Polly, Betsey, Sally, Nancy, Chauncey, Roxiana, George W., and Peter B. 

Westwood, Carmi, Moses, and Jonathan Wright, sons of Joseph, who died at Deerfield. 
Mass., in 1793, came to Adams about 1802. Westwood located where his grandson, Edwin S. 
Wright, now resides; Cainii where Austin Sischo resides; and Moses on tne Barret place, now 
owtied by E. S. Wright. Westwood married Sarah Billings, by whom he had live sons and two 
daughters, of whom Cynthia married Ebenezer Blackstone; Elijah, Henry, and Stephen died 
in Adams; David died in Watertown; Sally married Joseph Woodman and died in Michigan; 
Stephen B.. born in 1789, married Hannah, daughter of Jacob Kt Hogg, in 1814, and tlieir chil- 
di-en were Deborah, who married L. Patrick, of New York; Charles B., who died in Illinois; 
Harriet, who died in x\ilams in 1880; Louise, who married David De Wolf, of Sackets Harbor: 
and Edrt'in S., who was born on the homestead iii 1828. The latter married Louise, daughter 
of J. K. and Mary Pierce Bartlett, in 1865, and they have two children, Ella W. (Mrs. Charles 
F. Lawrence), of Illinois, and Wilbur B. The latter, born in I860, married Lena E., daughter 
■of Loren and Mary (Curtis) Lawrence, December 15, 1886, and is now a dairyman and farmer 
and resides with his father on tlie homestead, which has always been owned bj^ some member 
of the Wright family. The old house, built in 1803, is still standing, and some of the original 
shingles are still upon the roof. 

Lemuel Arms and wife, Mary Anderson, came from Deerfield, Mass., about 1802, with their 
three sons, Richard, Luman, and Hiram, and located at Adams Center, en the place now occu- 
pied by George L. Fox. After locating here tin ir children, John and Sarah (Mrs. James 
Plato), were boi-n. Tlie brothers Luman and Hiram purchased a large tract of land at Adams 
Center and built the first hotel there, and which is still standing and kept as a hotel. They 
also engaged in the manufacture of wagons and sleighs. Hiram married Famzin E. Paddock, 
in 1823, and their children were Foster A., Vvho died in this town in 1853; John Q., who re- 
sides in Adams Center; and Emeline E. (Mrs. S. D. Hunt), who died in 1860. John Q. Arms, 
born in 1828, was educated in the schools of his native town, and was engaged in mercantile 
business here about 14 years. He was also in business in New York city about 10 years. He 
married Hulda A., daughter of Riifiis and Hulda (Kellogg) Sawyer, in 1878, and now resides 
in Adams Cf nter village, on Rodman street. 

Luman Arms, born in 1796, married, first, Caroline, daughter of Eufus Arms, by whom 
he had five children, viz.: Louisa (Mrs. Albert Yandes). who died in Michigan in 1888; Julia 
(Mrs. Merrick Needham), who died in 1843; William D., of Adams; Heiiiy. of Michigan; 
and Caroline (Mrs. H. D. Bartlett), of Collingwood, Ohio. His first wife died in 1834, and in 
1835 he married Elizabeth Pierce, by whom he had three children, viz.: Harrison, of Chicago, 
111.; Foster M., of Adams; and Gertrude (Mrs. Charles M. Heath), of Adams Center. Mr. 
Arms's second wife died in 1882, and in 1883 he married Olive, daughter of Samuel Ward. 
Mrs. Arms died in 1884. William D. Aims, born February 14, 1829, was reared on his father's 
farm. He engaged in mercantile busin:iss with O. R. Davis, at Adams Center, for several 
years, and then removed to New York and was a jobber in woolen goods for some time. In 
1875 he formed a co-partnership with J. M. Hungerford, in the sale of dry goods and carpets, 
at Adams, in which business he still continues. He laariied Amanda C, daughter of J. W. and 



2 28 TOWN OF ADAMS. 



Candace L. (Fox) Horton, in 1855, by whom he had two daiighte>-s — Minuie L.. who died in 
1885. aged 25 years, and Carrie E., who resides at home. His wife died in 1872, and in 1877 
he married Carrie, daughter of Heman and Caroline (Pierce) Grinnell. Mr. Ai-ms lias been 
supervisor of the town eight terms and chairman of the board five years. He is a generous 
supporter of the Baptist Church, and resides on North Main street. 

Miles Cooper, with his wife, Asenath Cowles, came from Durham, Conn., to this town in 
1803, and located in the village, where he took up 100 hundred acres of land and built a log 
house on the site of S. D. Hungerford's house. Here they resided until 1811, when he built 
the first frame house in the village. They had three sons and six daughters, of whom Lodema 
(Mrs. Chauncey P.edway) died in Ellisbnrgh; Ira died in Adams; Polly (Mrs. Appleton H. 
McKee) died in Sackets Harbor in 1832 ; John C. died in Adams in 1877 ; Sarah (Mrs. George 
Hollister) died in Eochester ; Eliza and Nancy died in childhood ; George resides in Adams : 
Nancy is the widow of Eben Cowles. George Cooper was born in 1811, in the log hoU!>e built 
by his father. He married Koxiana, daughter of George and Polly (Brodock) Doxtater, in 
1835, and they have had three sons and three daughters, viz.: Mariette (Mrs. J. J Stillman) 
and George D., of Adams; Antoinette (Mrs. D. P. Fairbanks), of Oswego; Emmett B., of 
Nebraska; Charles C, of Adams; and Elizabeth, who died in infancy. Mr. Cooper was a 
prosperous farmer and once owned 640 acres of land, 100 cows, and 1,200 sheep. He built the 
Cooper House block. Charles C. Coojjer, born August 12, 1848, lived in this town and kept the 
Cooper House. He married Henriette S., daughter of Nathaniel and Juliette (Schuyler) Louis, 
in 1873, and they have two daughters — Clara E., born December 7, 1874, and Florence E.,. 
boi-n December 2, 1876. Mr. Charles C. Cooper and his father reside in this town on road 64. 

Saunders B. Chapman was born in Westerly, E. T., in 1804. When three months old his 
parents brought him to Northern New York. He married Elizabeth Lanphire in 1834, and 
they had three daughters, viz.: Mary E. (Mrs. John Williams), of Adams ; Susan M., who died 
at the age of 23 years ; and Elvira M., who died at the age of nine years. Mr. Chapman is a 
farmer, and resides on road 26 in this town. 

Titus Bassett was born in New Haven, Conn., in 1781, and in 1804 removed to Adams, where 
he died in 1867. He married Sarah, daughter of Nathaniel Wairiner, and their children were 
Harvey. Marvin, Marvin, 2d, of Oswego, and Laura, of Adams. Harvey Bassett was born in Adams 
in 1819, and here learned the hatters' trade. He married Jane, daughter of Abram and Leah 
fVan Buskirk) Ouderkirk, in 1843, by whom he had a daughter, Sarah Jane, who was born in 
1842 and died in 1864, and a son, Daniel D., who was born in 1844. He died in 1856. Daniel 
D.,who learned the printers' trade, served in the First N. Y. Yet. Cav. until the close of the war. 
He married Angerase, daughter of John and Mary (McGovern) Foley, of Ellisbnrgh, in 1866,. 
by whom he has had a son and a daughter, viz.: Lena E., who died February 14, 1883, aged 
15 years, and Floyd H., born May 4, 1873. Mr. Bassett is foreman of the Journal printing 
office in Adams village, and resides on Clay street. 

Heman Colton, son of John, was born in Otsego County in 1787. At the age of 19 years 
he came to Adams and worked at clearing land, and soon saved enough from his earnings to 
purchase a farm of 163 acres, which is now a j^art of the present Colton farm in the nortln rn 
part of the town. He married Lucina, daughter of Lsrael and Mary (Calkins) Warriner, by 
whom he had two sons and six daughters, viz.: Emily, Heman, Child, Chauncey, Mary, Julia 
Ann, Marie A , and Emily M. Chauncey Colton was born in this town in 1817, and was reared 
ui^on a farm. He married Angeline E., daughter of Eoger and Lydia (Perry i Eead, in 1838, 
and they had a son and two daughters, viz. : Emily L. (Mrs. Edward Eounds ), Julia E. (Mi's. J.. 
O. Brown), and Willis T. The latter was born January 1, 1855, and was educated at Hunger- 
ford Collegiate Institute. He married Martha, only daughter of Isaac Kellogg, September 18, 
1878, and they have one son, Clifford, born June 30, 1884. Mr. Colton occujiies the old home- 
stead of 500 acres. 

O. De Grasse Greene, the present county clerk, is a native of the town of Adams, where he 
was born in 1831. His parents, Thomas H. and Ann M. (Sweet) Greene, were married in 
Jefferson County and subsequently removed to Oswego County, and finally to Illinois. His 
father was a lawyer, and died in 1876, in Peoria, 111. The subject of this sketch is a contrac- 
tor and builder by trade, and has always resided in the town of Adams. He is a resident of 
Adams Center, where he still continues his business. Mr. Greene has served his town as 
supervisor for nine years. He was elected clei'k of the county in 1885, and is now serving his- 
second term. 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 



229 



Perley D. Stone, son of Jacob, married Harriet Kellogg, and in 1814 came to Adams and 
■engaged in the manufacture of furniture. He also engaged in undertaking, in which business 
he continued for more than 50 years. He had born to him two sons and one daughter, viz.: 
Artimesia (Mrs. S. A. Mariam), of Eochester; Cyrus K., of Adams; and George B., of Win- 
chendon, Mass, Cyrus K. Stone was born in Adams, May 13, 1825. When 14 years of age he 
engaged as clerk in a dry goods store at Oswego, and there remained several years. About 
1850 he removed to Philadelphia and did an extensive business. in publishing county, state, 
and city maps, and atlases. In 1864 he published a geographical atlas of Jefferson County. He 
subsequently returned to Adams and engaged as a dealer in coal, seeds, and produce. He 
married Susan, daughter of Capt. Eichard Phillips, and they had three children, viz.: Eliza- 
beth B. (Mrs. Dr. William H. Nickelson), of Adams ; Mary C. (Mrs. William H. Gillman), also 
of Adams; and George P. Mr. Stone resides on Eailroad street. 

Fayette Stanley, born in 1816, was reared upon his father's farm. He married Caroline 
Sophia, daughter of Michael and Lucy (Beal) Huntington, September 6, 1849. by whom he had 
three daughters, viz.: Lucy Evangeline, born August 18, 1852, married Albert A. Bobbins, 
September 21, 1873; Kate Esther, born August 9, 1854, married Dow B. York, in 1878; and 
Mary Elizabeth, born April 13. 1856, resides with her parents. Mr. Stanley is proprietor of 
the Smithville cheese factory, and resides on Maple street, in Smithville. 

Herman Keep, with his wife, Dorotha Kent, and their children, Mary, Martha, and Henry, 
came to Adams about 1817, and located near the Center. After their removal to this town 
there was born to Mr. and Mrs. Keep one son, Bissell. Their daughter Mary married Wanton 
Kenyon and died in 1883. Martha married William Fuller and died in 1884. Henry married 
Emma A., daughter of Norris M. Woodruff, by whom he had a daughter, Emma G. (Mrs. 
Halsey), of New York city. Henry Keep died in 1869. His widow is Mrs. Judge Sly, of New- 
York city. 

Samuel Bond was born in Watertown, Mass.. in 1793. At the age of 18 years he removed 
to Keene, N. H., and learned the cabinetmakers' trade, and there remained five years. He 
then removed to Whitestown, N. Y., and two years later located in Adams, where he went into 
IDartnership with Perley D. Stone in the cabinetraaking business. Having experienced relig- 
ion in early life he labored faithfully in his Master's vineyard, and was familiarly known as 
"Father Bond." He was for 49 years elder of the Presbyterian Church in Adams, and died in 
February, 1870. He married Rosaline Fisher, of Keene, N. H.. and thej' reared three sons and 
two daughters, viz.: Samuel Newel, of Adams; Geoi-ge W., of Syracuse; Ellen (Mrs. Benjamin 
Eandall), of Chicago ; David, who became a minister of the gospel and settled in Peekskill, 
where he died after one month's service ; and Mary (Mrs. M. C. Potter), of Lyle, Minn. 
Samuel N. Bond was born in Adams in 1820. He became a clerk with J. H. Whii^ple, and 
subsequently engaged in mercantile business. He married Elizabeth C, daughter of Peter 
and Lorany (Blackstone) Doxtater, in 1847, by whom he has one daughter, Lillian D. (Mrs. 
Joseph AtwellJ, of Watertown. Mr. Bond has been an active member of the Presbyterian 
•Church and an elder for 30 years. He is a now a general merchant in Adams and resides on 
■Church street. 

Joseph Eipley, son of Abram and Eoxey Ann (Webb) Eipley, was born in Blassachusetts 
and located in Adams early in the present century, and engaged in farming. Of his seven 
children, Eunice married Eaton North, of Eodman; Onin resides in Adams: Eachel married 
Asa Knight, of Sandy Creek; Laura married David Duncan, of Adams; William and Rufus 
died in this town; Pamclia married Ephraim Kendall and also died here. Eufus Eii^ley was 
born in Adams in 1817, and was reared upon a farm. He was educated at Hungei-ford (now 
Adams) Collegiate Institute, and subsequently was engaged in the grocery and bakery business 
in Michigan, until 1840, when he returned to this town. He married Vermelia E., daughter 
of Samuel and Elizabeth (Gordon) Wells, November 14, 1840, and they had a son and two 
daughters, namely: Adelbert D., of Adams; Alice Jane, who died in infancy; and Ennna E., 
born May 29. 1845, who died April 3, 1882. Mr. Eipley was at different times a farmer, a l)oot 
and shoe dealer, and a furniture dealer. He died June 25, 1883, respected by all. Adelbert 
D. Eipley was born November 25, 1841, and engaged in business with his father. He married 
Clara Amanda, daugliter of William H. and Clarissa (Averil) Gray, July 8, 1867, and they had 
a son and three daughters, namely: Mary E., born December 5, 1870; Nellie G., born Decem- 
ber 23, 1874: Alice M., l)orn November 25, 1876: and Eufus W., born February 5, 1879. His 



230 TOWN OF ADAMS. 



wife died suddenly, of heart disease, June 2, 1887. In 1866 Mr. Ripley engaged in the boot, 
and shoe trade, and in 1884 built the Ripley block. He resides in Adams village on North Main 
street. 

Daniel Stanley, son of Jonathan, was born in Rutland, Vt., in 1775, and about 1804 removed 
to Rutland, in this county. He married, first, Rebecca Taylor, in 1799, and their children 
were Sally (Mrs. Evelyn Williams), who died in Ohio in 1887, and Harriet (Mrs. Russell Phillips), 
who died in 1837. Mrs. Stanley died in 1805, and in 1809 he mairied Esther Scott, by whom he 
had five sons and three daughters, viz.: John M., of Adams; Rebecca A. (Mrs. F. B. Hollet), 
deceased; Fayette, also of Adams; Alexander D., who died in 1885; Orestes M., Viola O. 
(Mrs. Asa Lyon), and RoUin S., also of Adams; and Ellen A., whodied young. Daniel Stanley 
located in this town where Orestes M. now resides. Alexander D. Stanley, born in 1819, mar- 
ried Mary Benjamin, by whom he had three sons, viz.: De Forest, born in 1847; Charles B.,^ 
born in 1852; and Homer D., born in 1859. De Forest, who was reared on a farm, married 
Florence A., daughter of Percival and Catharine (Walrath) BuUard, of Theresa, in 1871, by 
whom he has one son and two daughters, viz.: Frank B., born in 1875; Lillian P., born in 
1879; and Mary C, born in 1886. Charles B. Stanley married Jennie, daughter of H. S. and 
Betsey (Snell) Howard, in 1885, and they have a daughter, Blanche, born in 1886. He is a 
hop grower and proprietor of the Valley Stock Farm, on road 20, where he breeds fine trotting" 
horses. 

Joseph Green, 2d, or " Dry Hill Joseph," as he was designated, was born in Berlin, Rens- 
selaer County, February 26, 1785. He was a farmer by occupation. He married Elizabeth, 
daughter of Rev. Wells Kenyon, a Seventh Day Baptist, in 1803, and aboxit 1806 located in 
Pinckney, Lewis County. His children were Wells K., born in 1807, died in Minnesota in 1887; 
Mary, who died young; Matthew S., who died in Lewis County in 1843; Eliza (Mrs. W. G. 
Quibell), born in 1815, now a resident of Adams Center; and Naomi (widow of James Witter), 
born in 1817, and Leonard R. , who also reside in Adams Center. Joseph Green located in 
Rodman in 1814, and in 1818 came to this town. Leonard R. Green was born July 22, 1820. 
He married, first. Mary B. Potter, and second, Pearlie C, daughter of Albert G. and Euctia Y. 
(Wheeler) Bnrdick, of De Ruyter, N. Y., in 1867, by whom he had children as follows; Mary 
E., born June 16, 1868, died April 3, 1872; Francis L., born August 18, 1869, now a student at 
Alfred University, class of '91; Bessie P., born December 29, 1875; and Sarah L., born 
November 4, 1881. Mr. Green is a farmer and resides on Railroad street, Adams Center. 

Calvin Warriner, with his wife, Abiah, daughter of Roger and Lydia (Perry) Reed, came 
from Massachusetts and located in Adams about 1820. His children were Parley E. and Mary 
E. (Mis. Eber L. Mansfield), of Iowa. Parley E., born on the homestead in 1827, was educated 
in the common schools and Jefferson County Institute. He married Sarah E., daughter of 
Moses L. and Demedicy (Scott) Ward, in 1861, by whom he has had one son and three daugh- 
ters, viz. : Jennie M., Thomas R., Fiances S. (deceased), and Sarah A. Mr. Warriner is a farmer 
and resides on road 8, corner of 9. 

John C. Fox, son of Samiiel and Lucy (Williams) Fox, was born in Adams in 1821, and 
was educated at Adams Academy. He married Annis, daughter of Lorenzo and Virtue 
(Sheldon) Rhodes, September 6, 1846, by whom he had two sons, viz.: John J., who was born 
June 17, 1860, and died January 13, 1867; and William E., born November 29, 1864. The 
latter was educated at Adams Collegiate Institute, graduating with the class of 1882. He 
engaged as a clerk in the drug store of W. H. Withmgton, of Adams, and in January, 1888j 
purchased the business, which he still continues. John C. Fox died February 15, 1872. His 
widow and son William E. reside in Adams, on Factory street. 

Robert Muzzy, son of Captain Robert Muzzj', removed with his father from Dublin, N. •"•^ 
when a boy, first locating in Richland, N. Y., and subsequently in Adams. He married Hen- 
riette Boyden, of Guilford, in 1827, and they had four sons, Alman, born in 1828, now a resident 
of Illinois; Francis BI. and Joseph B., of Adams; and Lester, of Henderson. Joseph B. , 
born in 1832, married, first, Henriette L., daughter of Harry and Luciuda (Close) Coon, in 
1859, by whom he had children as follows: Robert H., of Kansas, Byron J., John B., and 
Henriette L. His first wife died in 1875 and in 1876 he married Sophia E., daughter of 
Ambrose and Eveline Hall, by whom he has two children, Rolla J. and Elvan B. Mr. Muzzy 
is a cheesemaker and farmer, and resides in this town on road 43. 

Henry B. Whipple, Protestant Episcopal bishop of Minnesota, is a native of Adams, M'here- 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 



he was born Febrnaiy 15, 1822. The eldest son of John H. Whipple, an early merchant here. 
Henry B. was also in early life a merchant and a politician; but loving the church and believing 
his duty laj' in the ministry, he gave up a business life and began preparation for his life 
work. In 1847 he became a candidate for holy orders, and after pursuing a course of theo- 
logical studies was ordained a deacon on August 17, 1849, in Trinity Church, Geneva, by Rt. 
Rev. W. H. De Lancey, D. D. His tirst chaige was Zion Episcopal Church in Rome, N. Y., in 
1849. On July 15, 1850, Rev. Mr. Whipple was ordained prit st in Sackets Harbor by Bishop 
De Lancey. In 1857 he left Rome to assume the rectorship of the Church of the Holy Com- 
munion in Chicago. He was chosen bishop of Minnesota on June 30, 1859, and was conse- 
crated in St. James's Church, Richmond. Va., October 13, 1859. 

Newton M. Wardwell, son of Daniel and Hetty (Mann) Wardwell, was born in 1821. He 
clerked in his father's store for many years, and for several years was engaged in the hardware 
business in Rome, N. Y. At the breaking out of the civil war he enlisted in the Union army as 
commissary, with the rank of captain, and was subsequently brevetted major, serving two 
years. After his leturn from the war he engaged in the malt business in Adams. He mar- 
ried Elizabeth R., daughter of Frederick W. Jones and granddaughter of David Smith, in 
1843, and they had six children, namely: Julia E. (Mrs. Clark Kellogg), of Adams; Frederick 
W , who died in Utica in 1881; Emma, who married W. H. Kimball, of Canton, N. Y. ; Charles 
H., of Adims; Henry D., who died in 1885; and Robert D., of Chicago. Mrs. Wardwell died 
in 18S7. N. M. Wardwell & Son are now extensively engaged in the malting business in 
Adams. Charles H. Wardwell, born in 1855, married Ella M. Dwight, and they had three sons, 
C. Dwighl, Frederick N., and Arthur K. C. Dwight died June 9. 1889, aged nine years. Mr. 
Wardwell is a wholesale seed grower and maltster, and resides on Spring street in Adams 
village. 

Albert Rice, son of Jason, was born in 1806, and when quite young locatr d in Watcrtown. 
In early manhood he became interested in military affairs, and passed through the different 
ranks to that of g( neral, which office he filled with honor and ability. He was a worthj* citizen, 
a loving husband and father, and a faithful friend. He married, first, Rebecca, daughter of 
Dea. Jonathan Davis, by whom he had two sous, Jason and George. His second wife was 
a sister of his first wife and they had six daughters, namely: May E., Jennette E., Alice A., 
Carrie R., ELa A., and Mary E. The latter married Alton M. Sanford and occupies the old 
homestead on road G, corner 25. 

Samuel Fuller, with his wife, Ann Phillips, came to Adams in 1830and located on the farm 
now occupied by Harrison Fuller. William, son of Samuel, was born in 1813, and died in 
Adams in 1885. He married Martha, daughter of Heman and Dorotha (Kent) Keep, of this 
town. September 10. 1837, who died in 1884. Their children were one sou and three daughters. 
viz.: Mai-y (Mrs. John Snell) and Harrison, of this town; Diana L., who died in 1863. aged 12 
years; and Annettie, who died ni 1862, aged four years. Harrison Fuller, born in 1845, was 
educated at Union Academy. He married Ella, daughter of David F. and Mary A. (Eygabroad) 
Snell, of Watertown, in 1865, and they have one daughter, Mattie Naomi, born February 26, 
1881. Mr. Fuller is an extensive farmer and resides on road 34. 

Jesse Maxsou, son of Paul and Susan (Stillman) Maxson, was born in Westerly, R. I., in 
1791. At the age of 15 years he removed to Berlin, N. Y., whei'e he married Betsey, daughter 
of Christopher and Tabitha (Arnold) Brown, by whom he had two sons and five daughters, 
viz.: Britta L., Esther (Mrs. George Millard), Chiistouher B., Paul S., and Angenette (Mrs. 
Isaac Kellogg), of Adams, and Alma and Louisa (Mrs. L. D. Grem), deceased. Paul S. Maxson 
born in Adams, was reared upon a farm and educated in the common schools. He learned the 
carpenters' trade, at w-hich he worked for 12 years. He married AmyL., daughter of Oraand 
Sophrouia (Le Valley) Gould, in 1854, by whom he has one son, Edgar C. Mr. Maxson is pro- 
prietor of Maxson cheese factory, and is also a farmtr on road 29. His son Edgar C. married 
Nellie White and they have one son, Henry P., born in 1880. 

Calvin C. Totman, son of Thomas and Rachel (Rice) Totman, was born in Massachusetts- 
in 1793, and when quite young removed with his parents to Washington County, N. Y. He 
was active and abitious, and early turned his attention to farming. He married Charlotte,, 
daughter of Isaac and Sarah (Eggleston) Washburn, in 1817, and she died in 1874. Soon after 
his marriage his house was burned and he lost all his household goods. He then removed to 
Lorraine, in 1818, and located on a farm of 300 acres known as the "Totman Gulf." His 



232 TOWN OF ADAMS. 



children were Belief (Mrs. Isaac Washburn); Eliza (Mrs. John Traf ton), of Ontario County, 
N. Y.; Lottie (Mrs. Parley Brovm), of Minnesota; Sarah E. (Mrs. Joseph Heath), of ElUsburgh; 
Calvin Munroe and Laura J. (Mrs. A. B. Gilbert), of this town. Mr. Totman bought the 
hotel in Adams, and his hospitality became known in all the country round about. He con- 
ducted the hotel for more than 20 years, when failing health necessitated his retirement. 
He died September 4, 1864. Ciilvin Munroe, born in 1830, spent his early life in Adams. He 
married L'rsula, daughter of Dea. Clark and Peda (Bobbins) Wilder, in 1854, by whom he 
had a son, Freddie M., who died in 1862, and three daughters, viz.: Ivittie Adelle Hill, Caddie 
Estelle Wilder, and Birdie Belle Roljbins. Isaac Washburn, father of Mrs. Calvin C. Totman, 
born in 1809, was reared upon a farm in Exeter, Otsego County. He married Relief M. 
Totman. widow of Thomas Eurguerson, in 1852, who survives him, and resides on Church 
street, in Adams village. 

Jacob Brimmer, son of Jacob and Sarah Brimmer, was born in Petersburg, N. Y., in 
1804, and was reared Uf)ou a farm. He married Matilda, daughter of Peleg and Hannah 
( Peckham) Saunders, in 1831, and in 1834 located in Adams, in the Thomas settlement. He 
had four sons and four daughters, viz. : Jacob, who resides in Illinois ; Dennis, who died 
young; Nathan, who also resides in Illinois; Electa D., who mai-ried Lewis D. Green, who 
died in Berlin, N. Y., in 1883; Mary (Mrs. George Bull), who resides in Rural Hill, in the town 
of EUisburgh; Matilda (Mrs. Porter J. Green), of Illinois; Ambrose, who resides in Belleville, 
N. Y. ; Sarah E. (Mrs. James E. Packer), who died in Missouri in 1885. Mr. Brimmer died in 
Adams, February 4, 1887. His widow and daughter, Electa D. (Mrs. L. D. Green), reside on 
Prospect Hill, North Main street, in Adams village. 

Giles Parker, son of Cratus and Olive (Fuller) Parkei', was born in Watertown in 1812, 
and about 1835 came to Adams and located on the farm now occupied by Royal Fuller. He 
married Rhoda, daughter of Samuel Fuller, February 7, 1836, by whom he had three sons and 
three danghters, viz.: Maryette, born in 1838, died in 1844; Frances, born in 1843, died in 
1845; Livingstone, born in 1845, who resides in Wisconsin; Newton M., who was born August 
15, 1847; Diana C, born in 1850, died in 1851; and Samuel F., born in 1853, who resides in 
Rodman. 

Isaac Rogers, with his wife, Rhoda Chase, came from Hoosick, N. Y., to Adams, about 1835> 
and located on the farm now occupied by Elisha Rogers. Of his children, Elisha, born in 1797, 
married, first, Eunice Nichols, and second, Hanuah, daughter of Blenerhas'-ett and Nancy 
(Robinson ) Cronk. His children were Elisha and Eunice (Mrs. Fred Hodges), of Adams; Libbie, 
who died at the age of six years; and David, who died in infancy. Elisha Rogers, 1st, died in 
1883. Elisha, Jr., born in 1860, married Cornelia, daughter of William and Amelia (Allen) 
Spink, in 1879, by whom he has four children, viz.: Isaac, Maud, Edward, and Roger. Mr. 
Rogers is a farmer, and resides on the homestead on road 47 in this town. 

Samuel Davis was born in New Haven, Conn., in 1769, and about 1808 located in Redfleld, 
Oswego County, N. Y. He married Eunice Hinman, by whom he had one son and five daugh- 
ters, viz. : Eliza A. (Mrs. Nathan Cook); Sarah A. (Mrs. Archibald Barrett); Eunice (Mrs. 
G. W. Clark), of Wisconsin; Emily D. (Mrs. David Malloy), of Adams; Lucy Ann (Mrs. Rufus 
Petrie), also of Adams; and Samuel. The latter, born in 1821, came to Adams in 1835. He 
married, first, Lucinda Harrington, in 1847, and second, Emma P., daughter of Hamilton and 
Malvina (Richards) Dickinson, by whom he had two children, viz.; Grant W., born in 1868, 
and Viola Aaelia, born in 1870. His wife died in 1875, and for his third wife he married Lucy 
M., daughter of Alva and Olive (Taylor) Stevens, November 18, 1875. Mr. Davis is a farmer 
on road 37, near Adams Center. 

Thomas P. Saunders was born in Petersburg, N. Y., in 1821, and in 1836 came to Adams. 
He was educated at Belleville, N. Y., studied law with Judge William C. Thompson, and was 
admitted to the bar in 1851. He has been extensively engaged in building in Adams, and also 
in lumbering and farming. He married Lorana D., daughter of Andrew and Sally (Crane) 
Blackstone, in 1850, and they have an adopted daughter, Rena L. Mr. Saunders resides on 
Church street, in Adams. 

Charles H. Babcock, son of Russell and Lucinda (Maxon) Babcock, was bom in Scott, 
N. Y., in 1832. At the age of 18 years he was apprenticed to the trade of carpenter and joiner. 
In May, 1861, he enUsted in Co. C, 67th Regt. N. Y. Vols., and subsequently reenlisted in Co. 
H, 13th Vet. Vols, of Wisconsin. He participated in the battle of Fair Oaks and many others, 



4 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 233 



and served to the close of the war. He married Caroline C, daughter of Benjamin T. and 
Polly (Sweet) Lee, in 1865, and soon after engaged in the flouring business in Allegany 
County. In 1870 he located in Adams, where he has since worked at his trade. He has one 
son and one daughter, viz.: Benjamin C, born in 1866, now a resident of Hounsfield, and 
Dora Mabel, born in 1869. Mr. Babcock resides on School street, in Adams Center. 

Henry H. Comins, son of James and Alletta (Munn) Comins, was born in Jefferson 
County in 1814, and was reared upon a farm. He married Nancy, daughter of John and Grata 
(Ashley) Merriam, of Adams, in 1810, by whom he had three son-i and one daughter, viz.: 
Francis M., born in 18il, who resides in Adams; George H., also of Adams; Wright N., of 
Illinois; and Caroline M., who died young. Mr. Comins located in Adams in 1837, and engaged 
in staging and fanning. George H., born in 1843, was reared upon a farm and subsequently 
learned the carpenters' trade. He married Sarah, daughter of L. J. and Sarah (Dudley) Burr, 
of Watertown, in 1881, by whom he has a son, Carltcm B., born in 1885. George H. and his 
father reside in Adams on Cemetery street. 

Sylvanus Lockwood was born in Vermont in 1796, whence he removed to Rural Hill, in 
Ellisburgh, in 1823. He married Martha, daughter of Caleb and Azuba (Cooley) Lyman, of 
Lorraine, in 1823. He was a farmer and died in 1841. They had two sons and one daughter, 
viz.: Abigail (Mrs. Albert Ingalls), who died in Wisconsin in 1878; Daniel B., who resides in 
Adams; and Sylvanus L., of Maine. Daniel B. Lockwood was born September 9, 1828, and 
spent his ea^'ly life upon a faim. He married Annette, daughter of Edmund and Charlotte 
(Dickinson) Ingalls, May 21, 1848, by whom he has two daughters, viz.: Ella L. (Mrs. Orlando 
Wright) and Martha A. (Mrs. Arthur B. Husou), of Adams. Mr. Lockwood is a farmer and 
liveryman, and resides on South Main street. 

Austin Pratt Hale, son of Stephen and Sally (Maynard ) Hale, was born in Coleraiii, Frank- 
lin County, Mass., Api'il 27, 1812. He studied medicine with Dr. Ash, of Frankfort, I^. Y., 
was associated with Dr. Samuel Douglass and jjracticed at Sandy Creek, N. Y., and in 1840 
located at Adams Center. He married Hannah K., daughter of Dea. Amos and Hannah 
(Hinman-Griswold) Kent, of Redtield, Oswego County, December 5, 1843, by whom he had 
one son, Austin K. Dr. Hale practiced his profession at Adams Center until 1863, when he re- 
moved to Adams village. He possessed a genial disposition, and died December 2, 1878, re- 
spected by all who knew- him. His widow resides on Park street, in Adams village. Austin 
K. Hale was born in 1850. He studied medicine with his father and graduated from the uni- 
versity at Ann Arbor, Mich., in 1874. He married Eudora, daughter of Andrew and Angeiine 
(Morrell) De Forest, in 1874, and they have one daughter, Mary L., born in 1875. Dr. Hale 
has an extensive practice, and is located on Park street, in Adams village. 

Isaac Saunders, son of Isaac, married Watie, daughter of William and Penelopie (Gardner) 
Hiscock. Their son Isaac was born in Petersburg, N. Y.. September 9, 1812, and was reared 
upon a farm. He married Martha A., daughter of Ezra S. and Sarah (Maxon) Holmes, of 
Petersburg, in 1835, and soon after removed to Troy, N. Y., and engaged in the grocery 
business. In 1841 he came to this town and built a flax-mill on the creek about two and one- 
half miles below Adams village. In 1850 he went to California, and in 1851 returned and en- 
gaged in tishing on the lake, in which business he continued 28 years. In 1864, after the death 
of his father, he bought the homestead on which he now resides, on road 52. He had born to 
him five sons, viz.: Charles H., of Grand Piapids, Mich.; Isaac, who resides in Adams village; 
Ezra S. H., who lives with his father on the homestead; and Alfred F. and Thomas F. (twins), 
who were born May 4, 1853, and were educated at Hungerford Collegiate Institute. They 
studied law, and were admitted to the bar, Albert F. at Buffalo, June 13, 1879, and Thomas F. 
at Syracuse, in January, 1880. They are partners in the practice of law, and are located on 
Church street, in Adams village. 

William L. Hunt removed from Massachusetts to Westmoreland, N. Y., in 1813. He mar- 
ried Betsey Calkins, and they had ten children, viz.: William, Polly, Betsey, Elijah, Hattie, 
Almira, Isaac L., Jacob (now a physician in Utica), Lather, and Ward W. He was a tanner 
and cuirier and farmer, and died in 1843. His son Ward W., born in 1817, graduated from 
Hamilton College in 1843, taught school several terms, and entered the ministry of the Metho- 
dist Episcojial Church in 1848, in which profession he did efficient service for more than 30 
years, when failing health compelled him to retire. He married, first, Clarissa, daughter of 
David and Betsey (Adams) Smith, of Adams, in 1845, who bore him a son, William, now a 



234 TOWN OF ADAMS. 



Methodist Episcopal clergyman, and a daughter, Clarissa, who died young. Mrs. Hunt died 
in 1848, and for his second wife he married, in 1850, Elizabeth A. Smitli, a sister of his first 
wife, by whom he had four sons and one daughter, of whom Frances A., Frederick, and' 
Arthur died young, and Frances E. and Edward S. reside in this town. Mr. Hunt died iu 
Adams, September 7, 1889. aged 72 years, six months, and 28 days. Edward S., born in 1860, 
attended Hungerford Collegiate Institute in 1876, '77, and '78, and Syracuse University from 
1879 to 1883. He studied law with L. E. Pruyne, of Adams, in 1883, and with C. J). Adams, 
of (Jtica, in 1881-85, was admitted to the bar in November. 1885, and is now practicing his; 
profession iu Adams village. 

Isaac L. Hunt, son of William L. and Betsey (Calkins) Hunt, was born in Hillsdale, 
Columbia Couutj-, N. Y., December 5, 1808. In 1813 he removed to Westmoreland with his 
parents. He was educated at Clinton and Cazenovia academies, and taught in the last men- 
tioned school, including the divinity department, in 1832, '33, and '34, and in the last named 
year entered the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal Church, at Lowell, N. Y., in which pro- 
fession he has siiree done faithful work. In 1846 he became presiding elder, which position, 
he filled for eight years. He also held that oftice in 1862, '63. and '64. July 31, 1839, he mar- 
ried Mary, daughter of David and Betsey (Adams) Smith, who bore him one son and two 
daughters, viz.: Mary, born August 2, 1840, Isaac W., and Almira L., who died young. Hig 
wife died in 1843, and in 1844 he married, for his second wife, Judith, daughter of Cornelius 
and Hannah (^ Coons) Lamberson, of Salisbury, Herkimer County, by whom he had two sons 
and three daughters, viz.: Cornelius W., who died in infancy; Harriet K.. who married Eev. 
Wells E. Reynolds; Hon. Isaac L., of Adams; Helen Octavia; and Ida J., who died young. 
Some years ago Mr. Hunt located permanently iu Adams. He possessed a strong physical 
organization and great mental vitjor, which enabled him to perform an immense amount of 
labor in his Master's vineyard. No matter how inclement the weather, he was always at his 
post. There are probably few ministers living who have traveled more miles or preached 
more sermons than "Father" Hunt. 

Abram Green, from Connecticut, married Anna Bass, in 1793, and they had nine children, 
viz.: Stephen, who died in Ohio in 1833; Isaac; Cyrena (Mrs. Asa Copeland). who also died in 
Ohio; Zeruali (Mrs. Samuel Putnam), who died in Clayton; Servalla (Mrs. Able Tucker), who 
died in the town of Orleans; Abram, who died in Piodman; Ej)hraim, who died in Salt Lake 
City, Utah; Winslow, who died in Adams in 1881; and Nancy, who married William Rosa, of 
Watertown. Abram Green, born iu 1804, located in Rodman with his parents when two years 
of age. H ■ married Lucy, daughter of Charles and Cynthia (Pease) Cook, in 1833, by whom 
he had two children, viz.: Alma A. (Mrs. A. R. Cornwell), of Lorraine, and Charles A. The 
latter was born January 22, 1837, was reared upon his father's farm, and was educated at 
Union Academy, at Belleville. He married Matilda Elizabeth, daughter of Lorenzo and 
Aurilla (Jones) Green, January 17, 1866, by whom he has two daughters, viz.: Grace Lucy, 
born March 20, 1869, a student at Adams Collegiate Institute, and Nora H., also a student in 
the same school. Abram Green died August 3, 1876. Charles A. owns the homestead in Rod- 
man, but has retired from farm life and resides on Church street, in Adams village. 

T. V. Maxon, son of Joseph S. and Elizabeth (Vars) Maxon was born in Petersburg, N.Y., 
March 26, 1823, and was reared upon a farm. He married Alma A., daughter of Benjamin 
and Maria (Jones) Hull, in 1849, and soon after moved to this town and located on road 59. 
He had born to him two daiighoers, viz : Maria E. (Mrs. W. S. Tifft), of Baa'alo,and Helen 
H. (Mrs. William W. Hart). Mrs. Maxon died in 1869. Mr. Maxon is a wholesale seed grower 
and breeder of Percheron horses and Jersey cattle. 

Albert G. Thomas, son of John, was born in Vermont in 1819, and about 1850 came to 
Adams and located on the farm now occupied by his son Eli S. He married Nancy Shelding, 
by whom he had four sons and one daughter, of whom Albert M. and Eli S. reside in this town, 
and Eddie P. in Kansas. Eli S., born in 1860, married Anna, daughter of Garret and Josephine 
(Simmons) Palmeter, in 1880, and they have one daughter, Maude Lillian, born in 1883. 

John J. Stillman, son of John and Mary (Enos) Stillman, was born in Unadilla Forks, N.Y., 
in 1836. He became a clerk and subsequently engaged in business for himself in Rome,^ 
N. Y. About 1850 he came to Adams and was employed as clerk in J. H. Whipple's store. He 
married Mariette, daughter of George and Roxiana (Doxtater) Cooper, in 1868, and they have 
two daughters, viz.: Henrietta, a student iu Adams Collegiate Institute, class of 1889, and 
Grace C, who resides at home. 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 235 



Martin E. Dealing, son of Benjamin D. and Sarah S. fCireen) Dealing, was born iu 1847, 
and in 1851 came with his parents to Adams. August 15, 1864, when only 17 years of age, he 
enUsted iu Co. C, 186th Eegt. N. Y. Vols., and served to the close of the war. He returned to 
Adams and engaged in the grocery business, and also worked at the carpenters' trade. Iu 1882, 
with his father, he built the mills now occupied as grist, turning, and cider-mills. Mr. 
Dealing married Charlotte E., daughter of Moses and Sarah E. (Munson) Keller, in 1866, by 
whom he has five children, viz.: Lulu, a school teacher, Lillian L., Clinton, Ina E., and Alice 
Belle. 

Alfred H. York, son of Stephen and Artimesia (Fletcher) Y''ork, born in Adams, followed 
the dual occupation of cai'penter and farmer. He married Betsey T., daughter of Elijah and 
Mabel (Thomson) Harrington, by whom he had three sons and two daughters, of whom two 
died in infancy; Stephen H. was born August 24, 1851, graduated from the New York Medical 
University, and now resides in California; Dow B. resides in Smithville; Hattie married, first, 
George Cooley, by whom she had two daughters, Mabel and Alice, and second, John Hock, and 
now resides in Colorado. Dow B. York, born October 17, 1853, was reared upon a farm, and 
was educated in Union Academy, at Belleville. He married Katie S., daughter of La Fayette 
and Caroline (Hunting) Stanley, November 2, 1873, and they have two daughters, Florence 
Stanley, born October 16, 1874, and Marion Fay, born October 20, 1881. Mr. York is postmaster 
at Smithville and resides on Maple street. 

Lemuel Wheeler, who served his country faithfully during the whole of the Eevoluiionary 
war, was born in Concord, Mass., in 1755. He reared a family of 12 children, most of whom 
came to Jefferson Countj^ and located in the town of Lorraine, about 1816. and together took up 
a large tract of land. Eli died at Port Ontario; James died in Adams in 1863; Charlotte died in 
Adams in 1880; David died on the homestead at the age of 32 years; Mary (Mrs. Willard Wilder) 
died in Sandy Creek; Nancy died soon after attaining maturity. Deacon James Wheeler, born 
in 1800, located in Lorraine, and about 1852 removed to Adams, where he was engaged in the boot 
and shoe trade until his death, in 1863. He married Celinda, daughter of Nehemiah and Sarah 
(Henry) Tucker, born in 1822, by whom he had seven children, viz. : Samatha S., deceased; Will- 
iam H., who resides in Adams; Ashley H. and Freeman, who reside in Illinois; Catharine S., who 
died in Minnesota; Daniel, who served in the late war and was killed in the battle of Lookout 
Mountain, in 1863; and Celinda (Mrs. Foster Thomson ), who resides in Adams. Mrs. Wheeler, 
who was a lineal descendant of Patrick Henry, died in 1879. William H. Wheeler, mentioned 
above, was born in Lorraine, August 17, 1824. He was reared upon a farm, and at the age of 
22 years went west and taught school. In 1849 he came to Adams and engaged in the trade of 
carpenter and builder and dealer in lumber. He married, first, Sarah E. Wright in 1849. 
Their two children are deceased, and his wife died in 1853. For his second wife he married, 
in 1856, Innocent, daughter of Manning Blackstone, by whom he had a daughter, Clara Black- 
stone Wheeler, born in 1863. The latter was educated at Hungerford Collegiate Institute and 
in the art school in Syracuse. She was also a student in the Art League, in New York city, 
and became quite proficient in water colors, oil portraits, and crayons. She died September 
9, 1886, just as her hopes were brightest. Mr. Wheeler's second wife died in 1864. and for his 
third wife he married, in 1868, Annie, daughter of Nelson Green. He has been president of 
Adams village, and has been extensively engaged in building m Watertown, Adams, and in other 
villages. Daniel Wheelei', who was born in Lorraine, married Maria Gould, by whom he had 
six children. His son Judson was born in Lorraine, and at the age of 19 years went to 
California, where he amassed a large fortune, and where he now resides, in Placer County. 
Arvilla Wheeler married G. E. Penney and they have one son and two daughters, and reside 
at Ottawa, 111. 

Captain W. A. Collins, son of John and Elizabeth (^Mumery ) Collins, was born in the 
parish of Saltwood, Keut, England, in 1814. In youth he was apprenticed; but not liking 
the situation he ran away when 14 years old and went to sea, and for 20 years followed 
a seafaring life. He then came to America and was a sailor on the great lakes till near the 
close of his life. In 1853 he married Almira W. Wiles, and located in the village of Smith- 
ville. He invented the Collins elastic truss, and also a medical compound, which his widow is 
still engaged in manufacturing, at Smithville. Mr. Collins died January 9, 1886. 

James Hammond, son of Elnathan and Clarissa (Perrigo) Hammond, was born in Ver- 
mont, whence he removed to Adams when a young man, and learned the coopers' trade.. 



236 TOWN OF ADAMS. 



He married Lois, daughter of John Sargent, and six children were born to them, namely; 
Edwin M., of Adams Center; Sarah E. (Mrs. Solomon Sidmore), of Rodman; Clark and Lin- 
coln, who died in infancy; and Willis H. and Lewis G., of Syracuse. Edwin M. Hammond 
was born in Adams Center in 1850, and when 20 years of age engaged in railroading. He 
married Nellie H., daughter of Leonard and Lydia (Dual) Smith, in 1875, by whom he had a 
daughter, Lois Blanche, born September 19, 1878. His wife died in April, 1879. For his 
second wife he married, November IG, 1887, Nettie R., daughter of Stephen and Sarah Jane 
(Grummons) Irons, of Adams. 

Gardner Towle, son of Perlej', was born in Vermont, and when a young man located in 
the town of Ellisburgh and learned the masons' trade. About 1830 he took up a large tract of 
land in Lorraine and there built a saw-mill. He married Desire Spink, of Ellisburgh, and 
they had four children, of whom Ira N. and Gardner, Jr., reside in Lorraine. The latter 
married Electa, daughter of William MoAuley, in 1852, and they reared four sons and four 
daughters, of whom Ernest E., Nathaniel, and Perley reside in this town. Ernest E. Towle 
was born November 2, 1853. November 24, 1886, he married Eda P., daughter of Frank and 
Polly (Turney) Fellows. He learned the marble and granite business in New York city, and 
is now engaged in that business in Adams village. 

Charles H. Andrus, son of Ira and Melinda (^Taft) Andrus, was born in 1830, and was 
reared upon a farm. He married Theresa I., daughter of Archibald and Sarah A. (Davis) 
Barritt, in 1859, and they had one son and thiee daughters, namely: Frances E., who married 
William H. Potter, in 1879, and has three daughters, Cora M., Minnie A., and Frances T.; 
Edelie H., who died young; and Nellie L., who married Jay S. Armstrong and has a son, 
Frank G. Mr. Andrus is proprietor of a livery stable, and owns the Andrus block in Adams 
village. 

George Potter, son of George and Mary (Stillman) Potter, was born in Hopkinton, R. I., 
in 1799. He followed the occupations of carpenter and joiner, carriagemaker, and farmer. 
About 1818 he emigrated to Brookfield, Madison County, N. Y. He married Eliza, daughter 
of Deacon Samuel P. and Polly (Stillman) Burdick, in 1823, by whom he had children as 
follows: Charles, of Plainfield, N. J.; Mary B. (Mrs. L. R. Green), who died in Adams Center; 
Dr. Correll D., who resides in Adams Center; Delia (Mrs. George W. Gardner), also of Adams 
Center; and Emeline (Mrs. N. L. Burdick), who died in West Edmeston, Otsego County. 
Correll D. Potter was born in West Edmeston in 1827. He was educated at Adams and 
Rodman Academy, and in 1849 graduated from the medical department of the University of 
New York. He practiced in the villages of East Rodman, South Rutland, and Adams, and in 
1853 locatad in Adams Centc r, where he still resides. He married Electra, daughter of David 
and Sally (Sedgewick) Ayres, in 1855, and they have adopted three children, viz.: Susie, 
Evahne, and William D. Ajros, children of Daniel and grandchildren of David Ayres. Dr. 
Potter was appointed postmaster in 1861, and continued in office fourteen years He also 
conducted a drug store. In 1871 he originated the idea and commenced the manufacture of 
handy package dyes. In 1882 he became associate editor of Outlook, Sabbath Quarterly, and 
Light of Borne. 

Mark Marriott, son of John, was born in England in 1801. He married Ann Nunn, 
Immigrated to America in 1830, and in 1831 located in Rome, N. Y. Of his seven sons and four 
daughters, one son, Morris, was born in 1830, and at the age of 19 years was apprenticed to 
the blacksmiths' trade. He settled in Adams, and in 1854 married Harriet Grover, who bore 
him four children— Leola, Charles A., Ada G., and Alice I. His wife died in 1862, and for his 
second wife he married, in 1864, Elizabeth Ann, daughter of EUas and Betsey {^ Clark) Jen- 
nings, by whom he has four sons and two daughters, viz.: Eugene A., born in 1867; Brayton 
L., born in 1867; Mary L.. born in 1869; Harriet A., born in 1871; George M., born in 1874; 
and Fred B., born in 1877. 

Matthew White and wife, Elizabeth (Given), emigrated to America from County 
Tyrone, Ireland, in 1801, and their son, John G. White, was born on board the ship Fair 
America, on the passage over. John G. was left an orphan at the age of 13 years, and was 
apprenticed out to learn the printers' trade, at Albany. In 1823 he engaged in mercantile 
business, and became interested in the West India Mercantile Co. In 1825 he engaged in the 
malting business at Albany, in which he continued the remainder of his life. He was a 
successful business man and acquired a large fortune. He died April 16, 1889, in his 88th year. 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 237- 



In 1825 lie married Hannah J., daughter of EHsha and Esther (Johnson) Putnam, and they had 
born to them 11 children — seveji sons and four daughters. Kufus P. White, son of John G., 
was born in Albany, December 28, 1827. In his early years he assisted his father in the malt- 
ing business, and with his brother Matthew established a line of trading vessels between 
Albany and Philadelphia. In 1855 he came to Adams and engaged in the malting business, 
and built the malt-house at the depot, where he did an extensive business until 1876. In 1859 
he bought Maple Grove Place, and engaged in breeding fine trotting horses. He married 
Caroline, daughter of Frederick and Mary (Blesick) Van Wormer, of Albany, in 1848, and 
they had two sons and four daughters, namely: John G., who died young; Kate B., who mar- 
ried S. A. Potter in 1877, and has a son, Rufus P.; Carrie, who married A. C. Northrup, and 
has three children; Sybelia L. (Mrs. R. B. Hungerford), of New York; Hannah J. and 
Florence A., who died in infanc.y; and Frank P., born m 1860, who married Lucinda Bennett 
in 1887. Mrs. White died in 1885, and for his second wife he married. May 21, 1889, Anna S., 
daughter of Henry W. North, and widow of Dr. W. C. Tracy, of Brooklyn, N. Y. 

Jonathan Lamson, with his family of six son? and four daughters, located in the town of 
LoxTaine in 1804, where he died in 1806. Job, son of Jonathan, was l)orn in 1792 and died in 

1868. He was reared upon a farm, became prominent in town affairs, and was a member of 
the legislature in 1843. He married Amanda Steadman, of Lorraine. Of theirseveu children, 
only two, Malvina (Mrs. A. F. Thornton), of Columbus, Ohio, and Daniel W., who was born 
in Lorraine in 1836, are living. The latter was reared upon a farm, and in 1860 married' 
Frances C, daughter of Thomas and Esther (Green) Wood, by whom he has one daughter, 
Jennie L., who married P. D. Aldrich, a professor of music in the University of Boston. Mr. 
Lamson came to Adams in in 1858, and was engaged in the boot and shoe biisiness for 13 years. 
He now conducts a meat market. 

George Frasier and wife, Caroline, of Scotch descent, located in Hounstield about 1815. 
He was a seafaring man, and for many years a captain on the great lakes, where he lost his life. 
Of his children, William V., a ship carpenter, died in Sacramento, Cal. George, born in 
Hounstield, November 16, 1818, was reared upon a fai m, learned the milling business, and in 
1842 purchased a grist-mill in the town of Philadelphia, in this county, and tliere remained 
in the milling and mercantile business about 18 years. He came to Adams in 1860 and purchased 
a grist and saw-mill, which Imsiness he conducted until about 1878. In 1879 he bought the 
flouring-mill at Brownville, and in 1883 purchased the woolen factory property at the same 
place, both of which he has since disposed of. He owns farms aggregating 840 acres. He 
married, firdt, in 1840, Sophia R., daughter of David and Relief (Root) Wilder, who died in 

1869. For his second wife he married Cinderella, daughter of Truman and Eunice (Wittei), 
Root, May 21, 1872. by whom he has a son, George H. H., born December 19, 1873. Mr. Frasic r 
resides on Spring street, Adams village. 

Austin H. Coughlan. son of George L. and Sarah ( Waite) Coughlan, was born in Champion, 
N. Y., in 1817. In 1843 he marricvl Jane Henry, who died in 1849. In 1852 he married Marion 
Sherwin, of Brattleboro, Vt., and soon after engaged in mercantile business in New York city.. 
In 1860 he located in Adams, but continued his business in New York until 1874. His wife 
died in 1875, and the same year he married Helen N., daughter of Thomas A. and Vienna 
(Carr) Rice, and widow of H. H. Biitlerworth, by whom he has a son, George R., born in 1877. 
By his second wife he has a daughter, Mrs. W. R. Brown, of Adams. Mr. Coughlan has been 
an active member, trustee, and elder of the Presyterian Church, and a generous supporter of 
benevolent enterprises. His third wife, Helen, was born in Fairfield, Herkimer County, 
graduated from the academy in 1860, and became preceptress of Pulaski Academy, under the 
principalship of Harvey H. Butterworth, a graduate of Hamilton College, wlioni she married 
August 28, 1864. Mr. Butterworth died October 16th following. Mrs. Butterworth remained 
in Pulaski Academy two years, was preceptress of Hungerford Collegiate Institute in 1866-67, 
was in Fairfield from 1867 to 1870, when she again became preceptress of Hungerford Col- 
legiate Institute, with Prof. Watkins as principal, which position she now occupies with Orlo 
B. Rhodes as i^rincipal. 

Alfred A. Hodges, a native of Rodman, married Betsey Ann Freeman, by whom he had 
children as follows: Joshua F.,who resides in Chicago; A. De Alton, who was drowned in tl e 
lake in 1879; Calvin A., of Adams Center; Mary J., who died at the age of nine years; Ben- 
jamin F., of Frankfort; Willie M., of Florida; Charles E., of Chicago; and Clark A. and 



238 TOWN OF ADAMS. 



Alva A., of Adams. Clark A. Hodges, born iu 1862, married Eunice, daughter of L. H. and 
Hannah (Cronk) Perkins, in 1879, and their children are Libbie May, Amos. De Alton, Don- 
ald F., and Anna JI. Mr. Hodges is a farmer in this town. 

Joseph Bullock, a native of Guilford, Vt., married Abigail Avery, who bore him eight chil- 
dren, of whom Joseph, Jr., who was boin in 1787, died in Ellisburgh, where he located in 1806. 
He married Nanny, daiTgiiter of Francis Furgerson, and they had eight daughters, viz.: Mary C, 
who married, first, Alfred Stearns, second. Darwin Sherwood, and tliid, John Briggs. and is 
now a widow and resides in this town; Eliza Ann, of Ellisburgh; Abbie A., who died in Ohio 
in 1836, aged eighteen years; Emma A. (Mrs. Samuel Stearns), of Medina, N. Y. ; Julia (Mrs. 
H. Twadell). of Indiana ; Lucy J. and Frances E., of Adams; and Sarah M., of Ellisburgh. 
Mr. Bullock was a carpenter and joiner by trade. He served in the War of 1812, participated 
in the battle of Sackets Harbor, and received a tract of land as a bounty. Lucy J. Bullock 
l(;cated in Adams Center in 1862, and engaged in the millinery and fancy goods business. In 
1866 she removed to Adams village and engaged in the same business, which she still con- 
tinues. 

Seymour H. Pitcher, son of Daniel and Rebecca (Rice) Pitcher, was born April 18, 1826. 
He was reared upon a farm, and was educated at Lowvi'le Academy. At the age of seventeen 
vears he engaged as clerk with Baldwin & Wood, and at the age of 23 went to Illinois 
and engaged in farming, which he continued until 1863, when he came to Adams and 
bought a half interest in the Adams tlouring-mill, of which he became sole owner in 1877. He 
married Clarinda, daughter of Levi and Martha (Gleason) Butterfleld, w^ho bore him a dauuhter, 
Carrie A. (Mrs. F. A. Brandt), and died in 1863. For his second wife he married Delia M., 
tlaughter of Whitfield Crane, who died in 1874. He married for his third wife Arvilla M., 
daughter of Truman and Eunice (Witter) Root, in 1875, by whom he has a son, H. Earl, born 
in 1883. Mr. Pitcher has been president of Adams village and trustee of the public schools. 
He is now doing an extensive milling business. 

George D. Sullivan was born in Waddington, St. Lawrence County, in 1841. He learned 
the wagonmakers' trade, and in 1859 came to Adams Center. He enlisted in Co. C, 186th Eegt. 
N. Y. Vols., and was in Hatch's Run, Petersburg, and other battles. He married Diadama 
E., daughter of Frank C. and Mary Ann (Moulton) Wilder, in 1862, and their children were 
Anna G., who died in 1877, aged fourteen years; George A., who died in infancy; Georgia 
A., born in 1875; and Wilhe A., born in 1877. 

Myron D. Bunce, son of Henry and Olivia (Kellogg) Bunce, located upon a farm in Adams 
when a young man, and taught school in the town several terms. He married Snlly, daughter 
of Walter and Miranda (Harrington) Blazier, of Adams, and they had two children, Frank 
H., of Rjdinin, and Walttsr G., of this town. The latter was born in Adams, July 3, 1866, and 
was educated at Adams Collegiate Institute. He engaged as clerk with W. C. & F. C. Bailey, 
and subsequently with H. C & A. J. Greeti, and with C. E. Glazier, when he bought an interest 
in tlie business. He married Emma M., daughter of Chauncey L. and Emeline M. (Bates) 
Reed, November 29, 1888. G. L. Reed's family were Ida M. (Mrs. Charles Stoodly ). George P., 
of Minnesota, Nellie C. (Mrs. B. A. Smith), Bert W., of California, Nellie A., who died in in- 
fancy, and Emma May (Mrs. Walter G. Bunce). 

Gilbert C. Pryoi-, son of Chauncey and Amanda (Bassett) Pryor, was born in Watertown 
in 1829, and was reared upon a farm. He married Margaret C, daughter of LodwicK Salis- 
bury, of Theresa, and located in Adams. Mrs. Pryor died in April, 1885. 

James E. Cook, son of James and Millie (Dickey) Cook, was born in Ellisburgh in 1830. 
He traveled and sold jewelry for three years, and for a like number of years was engaged in 
the grocery trade in Henderson. In 1865 he came to Adams, and with J. 0. Brown engaged in 
the grocery trade, which was continued until 1873, when Mr. Cook withdrew and opened a 
grocery and crockery stoi-e, which business was sold to Babcock & Wright in 1889. In 1863 he 
married Mary Grant, by whom he has one daughter, Florella W. (Mrs. Dr. C. W. Howard), of 
Watertown. 

Hinckley J. Page, son of Luther and Sally (Jones) Page, was born in Fenner, Madison 
County, in 1823. At the age of eight years he removed with his parents to Florence, N. Y., 
and in 1833 located in Ellisburgh. He married Mary Frances Grifling, daughter of Ebenezer 
L. and Emily A. (Kelloug) Grifling, by whom he has a daughter, Fanny Georgiana, and a son, 



Charles H. Mr. Page is a farmer. 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 



239 



George Carpenter, son of George and Nancy (Dean) Carpenter, was born in SHiidv Creek, 
N. Y., in 1838. He was reared upon a farm and subsequently learned the painters' trade, at 
wliich he worked in Belleville and Theresa, and in 1865 located in Adams. He married Lucia 
C, diughterof Ambrose and Narcissa A. (Burr) Potter, of this town, in 186fi, by whom he has 
a daui^hter, Mary L., b )rn in 1S6S. a studeut of music, and i son, Frank P., born iu 1875. 

Daniel Fawdry was born in Oxfordshire, England, in 1810. He married Susannah Fox, in 
1834, and the same year immigrated to America. He had born to him four sons and three 
■daughters, viz.: Henry, of Albany, N. Y.; John, of Houinfield; David, a phvsician, of Barnes 
Corners; Elizabeth (Mrs. Jackson Squires), of Adams; Jamc, of Hounstield; Mary Ann, of 
Adams; and Carrie. The latter married Walter B. Kenyon, in 1874, by whom she has had two 
sons, viz.: Frank H., who was born in 1875 and died May 4, 1883. and David D., born in 18S0. 
Mr. Kenyon was born in 1852, and is a farmer in this town. Daniel Fawdry died in January, 
1880, and his wife in December of the same year. 

William H. Coon, of this town, son of William and Roxana (Wilcox) Coon, was born iu 
the town of Henderson in 1846, and was reared upon a farm. He married Rosetta 0., daugh- 
ter of Paul and Hannah (Jones) Greene, in 1867, and they have a son, Clifford H., boin July 
2, 1872. 

John Waite, a native of England, married Sarah Masters, by whom he had children as fol- 
lows: WiUiam, Charlotte, George W., Sarah (Mrs. Philoren Jennings), Eliza (rieceased), licvi, 
of Belleville, and Joseph, of Adams. George W. Waite, who was born in 1837, learned the 
tinsmiths' trade and engaged in the hardware business in Adams village, where he died in 
1879. He ftiarried Anna, daughter of J. D. and Maria (Keller) Beyerlc, by whom he had a son, 
Fred B., born in 1868, and a daughter. Flora M., born in 1874. Fred B. passed the Regmts' 
examination when 12 years of age, graduated from Adams Collegiate Institute at the age of 15, 
and was a stndent in Hamilton College in the class of '88. January 28, 1888, Frtd B. married 
Dora, daughter of John E. and Hairiet H. (Daniels) Wilson. 

Marquis D. Manville, born m this county in 1833, was educated in the district schools, and 
•commenced the study of dcntistiy in 1860. He enlisted in Co. I, 10th N. Y. H. A., as a musi- 
cian, December 25, 1863, and served to the close of the war. After the war he established a 
dental business in Adams village, which he still contimies. He married, first, Sarah M., 
daughter of Russell M. and Olivia (Smith) Jones, and after her decease Elizabeth M.. daughter 
of J. L. Hall, who bore him two sons and one daughter, of whom George P.. born in 1863, 
graduated from the New York College of Dentistry in 1886, and now lesides in Camden, N. Y. 

William Barney was a native of Guilford, Vt., whence he removed to Eliisburgh about 1806. 
His children wcie William, Osborn, Norman, Jared, Calvin, Gracia, and Ruth Ann. Osborn 
was born in 1810, and was reared upon a faim. He married Lucy, daughter of Samuel Fish, 
who bore him four sons and two daughters, viz.: Bradley 0., who resides in Belleville; Sewell 
A., of Adams; Emory 0. and Lurissa, who died in Sandy Creek; William, who resides in 
Sandy Creek; and Angeline, who married William D. Sanfoid and dii d in 1864. Sewell A. 
Barney was born July 6, 1834. At the age of 10 years he commenced work tV)r Norman Barney, 
at Belleville, finishing cabinet ware, where he remained about four years. Hh worked at 
farming several years, and later with his father at watch repairing. He had special in- 
struction with H. K. Newcomb in watchmaking and engraving, and at the age of 21 years, 
in 1855, engaged in business for himself, in Sackets Harbor. He lield the office of town cleik, 
in 1861, was appointed postmaster and held the oitice until 1866, when he removed to Adams. 
His wife, Harriet C, whom hemariied in 1858, bore him one son and three daughters, viz.: 
Alice Cornelia, who resides with her parents; Jennie Geraldine (Mis J. Herbert Van Slylie), 
who has a daughter. Bertha Marion, and resides in Adams; Louis S. ,born August 20, 1871; 
and Hairiet E , born July 12, 1875. 

Albert G. G'ass, son of Lorenzo and Sophia (Greenley) Glass, was born in Watertown in 
1840. and was reared upon a farm. He married Alzina K., daughter of Samuel and Lucretia 
(Green) Crosby, in 1861, by whom he has had children as follows: Virgil A., boru in 1867, 
died in 1872; Rosa E. ; Henry C, born in 1873; and Rena A., born in 1880. Mr. Glass came to 
this town in the spiing of 1866, and engj^ged in mercantile pursuits at Adams Center in the 
spring of 1884. He enlisted in Co. B, 10th N. Y. Vols., and served to the close of the war. 

Luftus J. Landon, son of Luflus S. and Charlotte (Smith) Landon, was born in Ellisbui'gh. 
He learned the wool-carding and clolh-dressing trades, at which he worked several years. He 



240 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 



kept hotel five years, then learned the blacksmiths' trade, and in 1867 removed to Adams and 
engaged in that business, which he continiies. He also kept the institute boarding-house two 
years. He married Hannah, daugliter of William and Eliza Koach, in 1867, by whom he has 
thi-ee children, viz.: Charlotte A., William S., and Bessie A. Mr. Landon is foreman of the 
Star Hose Company. 

Lorenzo Green, son of Ethan and Mary (Chase) Green, was born in Brookfield, Madison 
County, in 1805. He was reared upon a farm, and when young removed to Pinckney, Lewis 
County, and about 1847 located in Adams. He married Ai;rilla, daughter of William and 
Betsey (Randall) Jones, by whom he had nine children, viz.: Coralin (Mrs. Heman White), of 
Adams; Eleanor, of Adams Center; Matilda E. (Mrs. Charles A. Green), of Adams; Homer, 
who died in Adams Center in 1884; Lucy, who married Elijah Crandall, of Nebraska; Philo, 
who resides in Nebraska; Jason, who died young; Celcstine, of Adams Center; and Denio, of 
Watertown . 

Elihu Allen, son of Joseph, was born in Pierrepont Manor, N. Y., in 1806. He was a 
blacksmith by trade. He married Almira, daughter of Geoige and Angehne (Betts) Andrus, 
by whom he had three sons, viz.: George, of Buffalo, N. Y. ; William J., of Adams; and 
Edward B., who was born in 1849 and died in 1884. WiUiam J., born October 16, 1845, 
learned the printers' trade with Dwight & Eddy, publishers of the Jeferson County News, of 
Adams. He worked on the Waiertoion Reformer for a while, and in 1868 in the office of the 
Xorihern Temperance Journal, where he remained about two years. In 1870 he purchased a 
half interest in the business and entered into partnership with A. B. Delong, and subsequently 
with S. W. Hatch. In 1879 he became sole owner and has since i^ublished the Jefferson County 
Journal. He married Alice Dee, daughter of A. D. and Rhoda (Warner) Killy, February 4, 
1874, and they have three daughters, viz.: Dora May, born September 29, 1879; Edna Frances, 
born January 16, 1880; and Mabel Alice, born March 7, 1886. 

Asa B. Prentice, son of Allen and Elvira (Babcock) Prentice, was born in Cattaraugus 
Conntj', N. Y., July 29, 1838. He was reared upon a farm and graduated from Albion (Wis.) 
Academy in 1861. He taught in this academy several yeai-s and served as superintendent of 
schools in Dane County, Wis., in 1862-63. He engaged in ministerial work and was ordained 
as a Seventh Day Baptist clergyman in 1864. He married Marion W., daughter of George S. 
Green, in 1865, and in 1868 became pastor of the Seventh Day Baptist Church at Adams Center,, 
where he has continued his labors. He has had two sons and two daughteis, viz.: Lucy A. 
(Mrs. A. T. Stillman), of Scott, N. Y.; Mary L., who died in childhood: Henry W., who was 
born in 1873; and Alfred C, born in 1875. Mr. Prentice married for his second wife Mary A., 
daughter of Ira and Nancy (Periy) Green, of Verona, in 1877. 

Abner L. Ramsdell, son of Moses and Maria (Lapham) Ramsdell, was born in Oneida 
County in 1805. He followed the occupation of blacksmith. He married Lucinda, daughter of 
Ezra and Nancy (Ballon) Healy, in 1828. and they had six sons and two daughters, of whom 
Erwin F. was born in Ellisburgh in 1840, and was educated in the schools of this town. He 
studied law with A. Maxon, was admitted to the bar in 1870, and in 1871 entered into partner- 
ship with Paul C. Maxon. He was special county judge from 1878 to 1887, and is now (1889) 
secretary of the local board of health, and resides on Grove stieet in Adams village. Mr. 
Ramsdell married Anna, dau^^hter of Dr. Lyman and Julia (Arthur) Buckley, in 1864, by 
whom he has a daughter, Mary, born August 29, 1866, who graduated from Adams Collegiate 
Institute, and is now a landscape painter and teacher. 

Hiram Taylor, from Galway, N. Y., was one of the early settlers of Ellisburgh, where he 
took up lands at Taylor Settlement and engaged in farming. He married Jerusha Hinman, 
and they had five sons and four daughters, of whom Newton, Albert, and Cyrus are deceased; 
Joseph resides in Adams; Frederick in California; Adaline married F. Ransom, of Colorado 
Springs; Mary A. married William Grout, of Fort Wayne, Ind.; Corneha married A. G. Place 
and lives in Oswego County; Fanny married Hiram Allen, of Pierrepont Manor. Cyrus Taylor 
was born in Ellisburgh in 1815. He was an exemplary Christian, a member of the Presbyterian 
Church, and died in Adams in 1875. He was a tanner by trade. He married Amanda, daughter 
of Nathaniel Atridge, and they had five children, namely: Helen M. (widow of M. V. Barney),, 
of Colorado; Don G., of Vermont; Angle Rose (Mrs. Hiram Lanphere), of Valley Falls; De 
Elbert, of Adams; and Emma, who married Albert Frith and died at the age of 21 years. De 
Elbert Taylor was born October 26, 1816, was reared upon a farm, attended Belleville Union 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 24 r 



Academy, and subsequently taught school. He married Medora A., daughter of Daniel and 
Elvira (Loomis) Boomer, October 13, 1869, and they have a son, Herbert, born September 4, 
1870. Mr. Taylor located in Adams in 1872. 

Alvin Parmlee was born in 1804, and when 'young removed to Springfield. N. Y. He 
studied for the ministry and in 1833 began his labors as a Presbyterian clergyman. In 1851 
he came to Jefferson County, where he died in 1869. He married Violetta, daughter of 
William and Jemsha (Parmlee) Hamilton, in 1826, who bore him three sons and nine daughters, 
of whom there are now living Anna E. (Mrs. L. B. Woodward), of Adams, and Sarah H. 
(Mrs. De Voe), Alviu H., and Alice C. (Mrs. H. Reynolds), of New York. Anna E. was educated 
at Springlield Female Seminary. She engaged in teaching in Middlefield, Otsego County, in 
1842, and there remained 10 years. She was preceptress at Jefferson County Institute, at 
Watertown, four years, and at ATirora four years. She then taught in Mannsville, and in 1870 
became a teacher in Hungerford Collegiate Institute, where she has since been engaged. She 
married L. B. Woodward, in 1859, by whom she had two sons and two daughters, viz.: William 
H., of New Y'ork, and Hattie E., Alice V., and Willard, of whom the last two named reside in 
Adams with their mother. 

Orlo B. Rhodes, son of Schuyler and Amanda M. (^Sherman) Rhodes, was born in Scriba, 
Oswego County, January 14, 1849. He was reared upon a farm, prepared for college in the 
Oswego High school, and graduated from Brown University in the class of 1870, and the same 
year became vice-principal of Hungerfiu-d Collegiate Institute, with Prof. A. B. Watkins. princi- 
pal. He continued in this capacity until 1876, when he became joint principal, which position he 
held until 1878. He then engaged in teaching in Morgan Park, 111., and in the fall of 1882 
returned to Adams and became princij)al of Adams Collegiate Institute, which position he 
now holds. He married iVlice G., daughter of Simeon and Mary O. (Rice) Osborne, in 1873, 
and she died June 5, 1884. He has a daughter, Alice Bertha, born in 1884. Mr. Rhodes 
resides at the institute. 

Christopher Huson, son of John and Sibyl (Weatherbee) Huson, was born in Oriskany 
N. Y., in 1801. He married Sarah, daughter of Jonathan Waldo, by whom he had four sons 
and six daughters, of whom there are now living Isaiah A. , of Jersey City, N. J. ; Arthur B. and 
J. Burt, of Adams; and Emma C. (Mrs. Atwood W. Ecla), of Michigan. Mr. Huson located 
in the town of Lorraine in 182G. Arthur B. Huson was born in 1835, and was reared iipon a 
farm. He married Martha A., daughter of DanielB. and Annette (Ingalls) Lockwood, in 1872. 
Their son Dan B. was born in 1874, and a daughter, Laura A., in 1879. Mi-. Huson purchased 
the Lockwood (formerly Totnian) House, in Adams, in 1872, and kept the same until 1877, 
when he bought the brick hotel, now the Husou House, corner Main and Railroad streets, 
which he now occupies. Mrs. Huson died in 1889. 

Palmer Hodge was born in Schenectady, N. Y., in 1776, and at an early da.y located in 
Denmark, Lewis County. He married Sarah Wilson, by whom he had four sons and six 
daughters, of whom Martin L. Hodge was born in 1841, and in 1875 came to Adams and en- 
gaged in harnessmaking and carriage trimming, which business he still follows. He married 
Josephine, daughter of William and Amelia (Allen) Spink, and they have had two children, 
viz.: Robbie M., born in 1878, and Laura L., who died February 8, 1878, aged five years. 

Sylvester G. Nott, son of Reuben, was born in Somerville, St. Lawrence County, in 1836, 
was reared upon a farm, and was educated in Fairfield Academy. He located in Watertown, 
and with his brother kept the American Hotel for several years. He married Emma P., 
daughter of James M. and Leviiia (Bates) Cleveland, October 11. 1864, by whom he had two 
sons and three daughters, viz.: Carlyle C, born in 1866, now a resident of Columbus, Ohio; 
Carrie Adel, Olive Levina, Bennet C, and Hattie Cornelia. Mr. Nott removed with his family 
to Colorado in 1869, where he conducted a cattle ranch for seven years, when he returned to 
Adams and is now engaged as a commercial traveler. 

Rufus D. Gardner, son of Peleg W. and Julia (Wait) Gardner, was born in Rodman in 
1848, and was reared upon a farm. He married Ophelia J., daughter of Henry and Caroline 
(Dodge) Lewis, in 1871, by whom he has a son, Lewis L., born in 1875. Mr. Gardner came to 
Adams in 1877, and in 1882 built the Gardner block. He is a dealer in musical instruments 
and sewing machines. 

Waterman Horth, son of Francis and Lucy (Dixon) Horth, was born in Washington 
County, N. Y'., in 1795. The elder Horth did service in the Revolutionary war. Waterman 
IG* 



242 TOWN OF ADAMS. 



learned the saddlery and truDkmaking business. He married Lucy Foster, by whom he bad 
nine children, of whom La Fayette resides in Watertown, and Geoige W. and Charles in Adams. 
George W. Horth was born in Henderson in 1828, and eaily in life learned the shoemakers' 
trade. He married Lucy A., daughter of Archibald and Fanny (Horth) Brown, in 1849, and 
they have a son, Eddie C, born in 1852. Eddie C. married Amelia Jennings, and they have a 
daughter, Nellie G.. born in 1877, and a son, Leon A., born in 1879. August 11, 1862, George 
W. Horth enlisted in Co. B, lOtli N. Y. H. A., participated in the battle before Petersburg, was 
wounded in the left hand by a minie-ball, and served to the close of the war. He came to 
Adams in 1877, and engaged in the boot and shoe business. 

G. W. Hannahs, son of William and Elizabeth (Avery) Hannahs, was born in Watertown 
in 1852. In early manhood he engaged as book-keeper in Woster Sherman's bank, worked in 
Dunkirk for a short time, in 1872 was in the Merchants Bank in Watertown, where he remained 
several years, and subsequently became cashier of Adams National Bank and is now cashier of 
the Farmers National Bank. He married Helen, daughter of John Watt, in 1876, and they 
have two sons, Harry W., born in 1877, and Raymond C. born In April, 1884. 

John Ivory came from Vermont and located in Henderson at an early day. He reared a 
large family of children, of whom Theophilus, born in 1807, was reared upon a farm. The- 
ophilus married Julia, daughter of Henry Knapp, by whom he had six sons and one daughter, 
viz.: Emeline (Mrs. Christopher Wilder), of Henderson; Stratton, who also resides in Hen- 
derson; Frank, of Michigan; John W., of Adams; Theodore, of Hendeison; De Witt C, of 
Adams; and Harrison, of Smithville. John W. Ivory was b(irn June 7, 1842, and was reared 
upon a farm. In Apvil, 1861, he enlisted in Co. C, 24th Regt. N. Y. Inf., and in the fall of 
1863 reenlisted in Co. H. 18th N. Y. Cav. He was promoted to corporal and then to sergeant, 
and served to the close of the war. After the war he continued farming, until 1880, when 
he engaged in mercantile business, in which he still contiiiUes in Adams. Mr. Ivory is also 
engaged in breeding tine road and trotting horses. He married Amy, daughter of Benjamin 
S. and Mabel (Palmer) Gibbs, in 1873, and they have a son, Critt C, born February 14, 1874. 

Simon Wakefield, a native of Vermont, married Miitie Howard, and about 1810 located 
in Jefferson County. He served in the War of 1812 and participated in the battle of Sackets 
Harbor. He had born to him three sons and five daughters, of whom Emory, Ann (Mrs. Lj'- 
man Mills), and Alpheus reside in this town. Alpheus, born September 9, 1828, was reared 
ripon a farm and learned the wagonmakers' trade. In the fall of 1864 he enlisted in Co. M, 
20th N. Y. Cav., and served to the close of the war. He married, first, Ann Eliza, daughter of 
Benjamin Bliss, in 1855, by whom he had a son. Bliss C, born in 1856. For his second wife 
he married Clara Eliza, daughter of George and Adaline (Rogers) Whiting, in 1877. Mr. 
Wakefield is a millwright. 

Jolm J. Gilbert, sou of Moses and Sarah (Perry) Gilbert, was born in Watertown in 1859, 
and was reared upon a farm. He was educated in the schools of his native town. In 1882 he 
married Rose Ann, daughter of Henry and Hannah Lyons, by whom he has two children, 
Willie R. and Lena May. Mr. Gilbert is a farmer in this town. 

Charlns C. Case was born in Ellisburgh in 1831, and at the age of 16 years became a mem- 
Ijer of the Methodist Church. He became a conductor on the Rcmie. Watertown it Ogdens- 
Taurg railroad and removed to Watertown. In I860 he became general freight agent, and in 
1865 assistant superintendent of the road. He married Esther A., daughter of Winslow and 
Marina S. ( Stiiekland) Green, in 1859, by whom he had two sons, William C. and H. Alton. 
AVilliam C. married Mary Eldred and lives in Adams. Charles C. Case died in 1878. His widow 
resides in Adams village. 

John H. Dryden was born in Liverpool, England, whence he immigrated to America when 
a boy, and located in Watertown and engaged in farming. He married Lydia M. Clark, by 
whom he had five sons and two daughters. His son George H.. born in 1846, at the age of 15 
years enlisted in Co. K, 94th N. Y. Vols., in November, 1861, and participated in the battles of 
Bull Run, South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, and 
others, and served to the close of the war. He married Salina, daughter of Henry White, in 
1867, and they have had children as follows: Ella L., Burt J., Jennie M. (deceased). Pearly G., 
and Lewis G. Mr. Dryden is a barber and resides in Adams Center village. 

John Williams, son of Joseph and Margaret (Saunders) Williams, born in Verona, Oneida 
County, in 1827, was reared upon a farm and learned the carpenters' trade. He married, first, 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 



243 



"Wealthy Clark, by whom he had' two children— Emma (Mrs. W. It. Agaiis) and Jay, of Water- 
town. Mrs. Williams died in 1859, and for liis second wife he married Mary E., daughter oif 
S. B. and Betsey (Lanpliire) Chapman, in 1860, who has borne him children as follows: Sam- 
ual C, born in 1861, who was drowned May 30, 1881 ; Wealthy E. (Mrs. A. Overton ), of Hender- 
son; Susie A.: JessieL.; Chester, born in 1872: and Alice, born in 1875. Mr. Williams located 
in Adams in 1879, and is a farmer. 

Simeon Heath, who was born in Somers, Conn., in 1763, married Elizabeth Harrington in 
1782. Of their 10 children, Morrison was born in Salem, N. Y., in 1789. He married Sally 
Smith, in ISU, an 1 their children were Ellas, Louisa, Lucy, and Levi. Elias was born in 
1811 and died in 1887. He married Ann, daughter of Charles and Amy (Sheldon) Green, in 
1837. and their children were Charles M. and Andrew S., of Adams. Charles M. was born 
September 17, 1838, and was educated in tlie schools of his native town. He married Gertrude 
E., daughter of Luman and Elizabeth (Pierce) Arms, February 2, 1865, by whom he has two 
daughters, Lucy M. and Lena J. August 21, 1862, Mr. Heath enlisted in Co. H, 10th N. Y. 
H. A. Ho is now a dealer in musical instruments. 

David F. Snell, son of Frederick, was born in Manheim, Herkinier County, in 1812, and 
was reared upon a farm. He married Mary Ann, daughter of John audBarbara Eggabroad, in 
1832, by whom he had children as follows: Sylvester, of Watertown; John A. D., of Adams; 
Julia A. (Mrs. A. M. Gillett), of Watertown; Barbara M. (Mrs. Stephen Shaw), of Adams 
Center; Mary C. (Mrs. Ira Fish), of Watertown; Elvira (Mrs. Joshua Sni 11), of Little Falls, 
N. Y.; Ellen (Mrs. Harrison Fuller), of Adams; David M., of Watertown; Emma A., who died 
in 1863, aged 10 years; and Clara M. (Mrs. Seward Hoklen), of Waiertown. John A. D. Snell 
was born in 1835. He married Mary Dorotha, daughter of William and Martha (Keep) Fuller, 
in 1858, who bore him a son and three daughters, of whom Diana Annette died in 1878, aged 
15 years; Martha Keep (Mrs. Rolla B. Heath) resides in Adams Center; and Ella Fuller died 
in infancy. J. A. D. Snell capae to Jefferson County when two years of age and has since 
resided here. Wiiliam D. Snell. born in 1860, married Julia, daughter of George and Eliza 
(Peck) Hawes, of Adams Center, in 1877, and their children are Nettie May, John H., Helen 
Grade, Mattie K., Willie D., and Bertha Eliza. Mr. Snell resides in Adams Center. 

Edward D. Spicer, son of Joseph and Content (Potter) Spicer, was born in Hopkinton, 
R. L, in 1828. His mother was a daughter of George and Mary (Stillman) Potter. Mr. Spicer 
was reared upon a farm, and was educated in De Ruyter, N. Y. He married, first, Eliza W., 
daughter of George and Sophia (Stillman) Wells, in 1853, who Ijore him three sons and three 
daughters, viz.: Ella M. (Mrs. George F. Conant), of Camden, N. Y. ; William D., who died in 
1879, aged 23 years; Charles E., born in 1861, who resides in Adams; Emma and Emeline 
(twins\ who died in infancy; and George T , born in 1868. His wife died in 1878, and for his 
second wife Mr. Spicer married Harriet, daughter of Luman and Esther (Free) Nichols, and 
widow of Jacob Bellinger, in 1879, by whom he has a son, Ealph Harold, born in 1886. Mrs. 
Spicer had a daughter, Nettie, by her fiist husband. Mr. Spicer is a farmer and gardener. 

Newton M. Parker, born in 1847, was reared upon a farm, and taught school several terms. 
He married Sarah E., daughter of Nathan R. and Percy (Fuller) Talcott, bj' whom he has two 
sons, viz.: Giles F., born March 20, 1878, and George F., born January 16, 1887. Mr. Parker 
is a farmer and occupies the homestead in this town. 

Stephen Shaw was born in Canada in 1833, and was reared upon a farm. He removed to 
Watertown and was employed by N. M. Woodrutf, and afterwards became a farmer. He mar- 
ried Barbara M., daughter of David and Mary (Eggabroad) Snell, in 1857, by whom he had 
three sons, viz.: George G., who died at the age of three years; David S.. born in 1861; and 
Fred S., born in 1866. Mr. Shaw died in 1881. 

Clarendon Phillips, son of Silas and Lucretia (Scott) Phillips, was born in Massachusetts 
in 1797, and about 1805 removed with his parents to the town of Rutland, in this county 
where he was reared upon a farm. He married Barbara A., daughter of Peter Wilcox, by 
whom he had three sons and four daughters, viz.: Lucretia, Hiram, Elizabeth, David, Nelson, 
Katie, and Sarah. Nelson Phillips of this town was born in Wilna in 1843, and was reared upon 
a farm in Le Ray. He married Phebe, daughter of Benjamin F. and Polly (Sweet) Lee, widow 
of Homer Green. Clarendon Phillips died in 1856. 

Rev. John F. Nelson, son of Benjamin F. and Emily (Clark) Nelson, was born in Marshall 
County, Virginia, in 1850, and spent his early life upon a farm. His education was com- 



2 44 TOWN OF ADAMS. 



menced in the common schools, and in 1883 he graduated from Dennison University of Ohio^ 
and the same year became pastor of the Baptist Church at Adams Center, being ordained July 
26. In 1875 he married Carrie A., daughter of Rev. Jordan and Blary S. (Morris) Hall, of 
West Virginia, by whom he had two sons and one daughter, viz.: Herbert H., born in 1870; 
Alma Gertrude, born in 1879; and Howard O., born in 1883. 

Giles A. Hall, son of Calvin and Cynthia S. (Whitney ) Hall, was born in Belleville, in the 
town of EUisburgh, in 1842. At the age of 20 years he enlisted in Co. L, 10th N. Y. H. A., and 
served to the close of the war. He married Maria H., daughter of William C. and Caroline 
(Morgan) Woodhouse, in 1863, and their children are Jennie A. (Mrs. Nelson D. Shaw), of 
Rome, N. Y., Lulu B., and Beula M. Mr. Hall is a painter and resides in Adams Center. 

H. K. Eggleston, son of Hector and Isabell (Lee) Eggleston, was born in Henderson. He 
married Nettie R., daughter of Oren and Maria (Dewey) Read, in 1874, and they have a son, 
Cadvvell R., born February 16, 1877. Mr. Eggleston is a carpenter and farmer, and resides in- 
Adams Center. 

William H. Nickelson, son of Charles and Martha (Smith) Nickelson, was born in Lowville,. 
Lewis County, in 1858. He was educated at Canton Union School, and the degree of A. M. 
was conferred upon him at St. Lawrence University. He studied medicine with Drs. Hoag 
and Cole, of Canton, St. Lawrence County, and graduatetl from the Hahnemann Medical Col- 
lege of Chicago, 111., in 1881, and commenced practice in Adams in the spring of the same 
year. He married Lizzie B., daughter of C. K. and Susan (Phillips) Stone, and tliey have a 
daughter, Mai-y Elizabeth, born August 28, 1884. 

James E. Bentley removed from Johnstown, N. Y., to Antwerp early in the present 
century. He married Prudence Coats, by whom he had four sons and live daughters. David,. 
son of James E., was born in 1828 and was reared upon a farm. He miarried Caroline, 
daughter of Turner E. and Amanda (Cleveland) Howard, who bore him two sons and one 
daughter, viz.: W. Gordon, Mary, who died young, and George A., of Rutland. David Bent- 
ley died in 1883. W. Gordon Bentley, born in 1853, graduated from Adams Collegiate Institute 
in 1883, and has been engaged in teaching in the institute since the fall of 1882. 

Captain Pardon Payne, born in Rhode Island in 1788, was a captain in the War of 1812,, 
and commanded at Sackets Harbor. He was a farmer and about 1806 located in Gouverneur, 
N. Y. He married Betsey, daughter of Kendall and Betsey (Hale) Boutwell, in 1826, who bore 
him eight sons anctfour daughters, of whom Isaac W. Payne was born in 1838. He was reared 
upon a farm, and learned the coopers', carpenters', and plumbers' trades. He married Ethe- 
laide V., daughter of Henry and Maria (Mitchel) Miles, in 1860, by whom he has a daughter. 
Amy M.. and a son, Seymour H. Mr. Payne located in Adams in 1883, and is now superinten- 
dent of Adams water works. 

John Monroe, son of Archibald and Mary (Whitten) Munroe, was born in Whitestown. 
Oneida County, N. Y., August 2. 1829. He worked in the cotton-mills a number of years and 
learned the machinists' trade. He married Cornelia, daughter of Stephen and Fanny (Miller)- 
Renne, of East Durham, N. Y., May 7, 1855, who bore him two sons and two daughters. The 
only one living, Julia Antoinette^ was born July 18, 1863. She graduated from Adams Colle- 
giate Institute in the class of '86. Mr. Monroe located in EUisburgh in 1867, and engaged in 
farming, and in 1883 came to Adams village, where he is a machinist. 

Michael Schrodt, a native of Germany, married Mary Eckert and came to America about 
1835. He had born to him children as follows: John, who resides in Brownville: Philip, who 
died at the age of 18 years; Mary (Mrs. Walter Scott), of Sanford's Corners; Martin, of Brown- 
ville; Michael, Jr., of Adams Center; George, of Rutland;. and Hattie, who died at the age of 
13 years. Michael, Jr., was born in 1854, and at the age of 16 years was apprenticed to the 
blacksmiths' trade. In 1884 he located at Adams Center, where he works at his trade. He 
married Adelaide, daughter of Joseph and Jennie (Cross) Lehan, of Watertown, nnd they have 
a son, Herman H., born August 2, 1886. 

Rev. William Cooke, son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Davies) Cooke, was born in Shrews- 
bury, Shropshire, Eng., in 1853, and was educated in the free grammar schools. He came 
to America in 1870. studied theology at St. Andrew's Divinity School, at Syracuse, N. Y., 
and began ministerial work as rector of the Protestant Epi^cof>al Church at Oriskany Fal^s, 
N. Y., in 18!-0, where he lemained till 1886, when he located in Adams and became rector of 
Emauitel Church, which position he still retains. In 1881 he mai-ried Mary Alice, daughter of 



TOWN OF ADAMS. 



245 



Charles and Nancy (Dickenson ) Wicks, of Paris, Oneida County, by whom he has a sou and 
two daughters, viz.: William W., Mary Elizabeth, and Bessie Lincoln. 

Rev. Thomas Simpkins was born in Bedfordshire, Eng., March 14, 1843, and was educated 
and entered the ministry in his native country. August 12, 1867, he united in marriage with 
Susan Whitfield, of Bedfordshire, and in 1870 came to this country with his wife and two 
children- George W. and Charles W. In August of the same year he became pastor of the 
Baptist Church at Mount Bethel, N. J., and has held pastorates in Liberty and Great Bend, 
Pa., and Worcester and Johnstown, N. Y., and in January, 1886, became pastor of the church 
in Adams. He has had born to him four children, viz.: George W., at Sandy, Bedfordshire, 
Eng., May 11, 1868: Edith 11., who was born in Worcester, N. Y., July 28, 1878; Henry L., 
born July 19, 1880; and Charles \f., who was drowned in Cayadutta Creek, Johnstown, N. Y., 
July 10, 1882, aged 12 years. Mr. Simpkins is pastor of the Baptist Church in Adams. 

William Gussman, son of Frederick, was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, in 1849, and 
in 1853 emigrated to America and located at Britton, Conn. He was educated in New Haven, 
•Conn., at Yale Theological Seminary, and began ministerial work at the age of 19 years. No- 
vember 13, 1873, he was ordained pastor of Essex Baptist Church, where he remained three 
years, and afterwai-ds did missionary work in Michigan. In 1878 he became pastor of North 
Haven Baptist Church, and subsecpiently was located in Ticonderoga, N. Y.. Essex, Vt., and 
Brooklyn, Conn., until 1887, when he became pastor of the First Baj^tist Church in Adams 
■Center. In 1876 he married Florence N., daughter of A. J. and Mary (Frisbie) Hay ward, of 
Essex, N. Y., by whom he has a son and two daughters, viz.: Mary Hayward, born in 1877; E. 
Dryden, born in 1882; and Grace Florence, born in 1885. Mr. Gussman resides on road 36, in 
this town. 

Alfred Lord, son of Truraan and Betsey (Randall) Lord, was born in Hounsfield in 1828, 
and was reared upon a farm. He married Emma Jane, daiighter of Harr.y and Amanda (Ives) 
White, of Watertown, in 1856, and their children are Seth J., born in 1859; Fred H., born in 
1865; Minnie Adel; and Fanny Emma, Mr. Lord is proprietor of the hotel and livery at the 
•depot, in Adams Center, where he located in 1887. 

Rev. Junius J. Cowles, son of Junius A. and Elizabeth (Gardner) Cowles, was born in 
Florence, Oneida County, N. Y., in 1851, and was educated in Rome High school and Whites- 
town Seminary, graduating from the latter school in 1871, and in 1875 from Hamilton College. 
In 1879 he graduated from the Union Theological Seminary, and in the fall of the same year 
located in Huntington Valley, Pa. In 1884 he located in Fair Haven, N. Y'., and in 1886 came 
to Adams, where he is now pastor of the Presbyterian Church. He married Mary Elmina, 
daughter of Almon and Frances E. (Wetmore) Wellman, in 1878, and they have three sons and 
two daughters, viz.: J. Atwood, born July 10, 1880; E. Haviland, born April 21, 1882; Francis 
W., born March 15, 1884; Pansy Elizabeth Gardner, born July 1, 1885; and IMary Marguerite, 
born April 8, 1887. 

John S. Archer, son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Snyder) Archer, was born in Ulster County, 
N. Y'., in 1813, and learned the carpenters' trade. He married Harriet E. Baylis, in 1835, 
resided in New Yoik city for a time, and in 1852 located in Jefferson County. Of his five 
children, |John H. and William M. reside in this town. John H. Archer was born September 9, 
1843. In 1862 he enlisted in Co. H, 94th N. Y. Inf., and participated in the battles of second 
Bull Run, Antietam, and others. In 1864 he reenlisted in Co. L, 18th Cav., and served to the 
close of the war. After the war he was employed in mills and as a clerk in stores, kept hotel 
in Delta, Oneida County, and the Frontier House at Sackets Harbor. In the spring of 1888 he 
purchased the hotel at Adams. He married Libbj^ daughter of George W. and Catharine 
{Miller) Neiss, September 6, 1868, by whom he has had four children, viz.: Charles R., who 
died in infancy; George B., born March 27, 1871; Nellie May, born March 31, 1873; and Flora 
I., who died in 1881. Mr. Archer is owner and proi^rietor of the Archer House, at Adams. 

Richard A. Dennis, son of Thomas Z. and Harriet (Phillips) Dennis, was born in Cicero, 
Onondaga County, in 1868. He learned the barbers' trade, and in 1888 located in Adams, where, 
in 1889, lie bought the Horth block, on South Main street, where his business is now located. 
January 29, 1889, he married Mary Lucinda, daughter of George L. and Lucinda (Potter) 
Carpenter, and they reside on Spring street. 

Sylvester J. Taylor, son of Jeremiah and Amanda (Presley) Taylor, was a native of Sandy 
Creek. He married Eliza, daughter of Hiram and Anna (Ouderkirk) Moore, by whom he had 



246 TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA. 



one Bou and two daughters, namely: Monford H., of Adams; Ida (Mrs. James Martin), of 
Oswego; andLeona 8 , of Albion. Mr. Taylor served in the late war as second lieutenant of Co- 
E, li7th Regt. Vol. Inf., and was killed in the battle of Gettysburg. Monford H. Taylor was 
born in Sandy Creek, October 8. 1858. He married Nellie, daughter of John and Dora C. 
(Vaughn) Hitter, April 8, 1888, and is now engaged in the marble and granite business with 
Isaac G. Pnft'er, at Adams. 



ALEXANDRIA. 



ALEXANDRIA occupies the northern extremity of Jefiferson County- 
opposite the Thousand Islands, of which a number are included within 
the limits of the town, the principal one being a portion of Wells 
Island. This town is bounded on the northwest by the St. Lawrence River^ 
on the northeast by St. Lawrence County, on the southeast by Theresa, and 
on the south and west by Orleans. The surface of the town is generally 
rough and rocky, but that portion underlaid by sandstone is level, with a thin 
clayey and sandy soil. It may be pertinent here to add that the Potsdam 
sandstone substratum generally prevents a level su'"face, but more liable to 
upheavals, and is covered with soil entirely brought from other formations, 
and various in quality with the sources from which it has been derived. 
Where not covered with drift, as occurs near Plessis, it is a barren rock, which, 
although exposed from time immemorial to the action of the elements, still 
preserves the traces of deluvial abrasion. This rock never presents a fertile 
slope into the valley, but is bordered with abrupt precipices, at the foot of 
which oftentimes are piled huge masses that have tumbled from the face of 
the ledge. 

Besides the grand St. Lawrence River, which forms its northwestern 
boundary, this town is watered by numerous small streams, which have their 
source in the southern part of the town. Butterfield Lake, Mud Lake, and 
Clear Lake are in the southeastern part, and the first two mentioned lie partly 
in the town of Theresa. It is claimed time has changed the appellation of 
these lakes. That now known as Butterfield Lake was once Grand Lake ; 
Clear Lake was Crown's Lake ; and Mud Lake was Edmond's Lake. 

This town was erected from Brownville and Le Ray, April 3, 1821, by the 
same act that formed Philadelphia and Orleans, the first town meeting being 
held at the house of William Merrill. By the first act its limits included 
Theresa. An act of February 6, 1840, restored to the town of Orleans a 
small part that had been annexed to the latter. The town derives its name 
from Alexander, son of J. D. Le Ray, who obtained a colonel's commission 
in the Texan revolution, and was killed in a duel in 1836. The early records 
of the town are lost, and hence it is impossible to give a full account of the 



TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA. 247 



early organization. James Shurtleff was the first supervisor ; Nathaniel 
Goodell the first clerk ; Ashley Tanner, assessor ; and Allen Cole and Joel 
Porter, inspectors of election. 

In 1880 Alexandria had a population of 3,135. The town is located in the 
third school district of Jefferson County, and in 1888 had 22 school districts, 
one of which was joint, in which 28 teachers were employed the same number 
of weeks or more. The whole number of scholars attending school was 931, 
while the aggregate days attendance during the year was 78,606. The total 
value of school buildings and sites was $17,400, and the assessed valuation of 
all the districts was $1,275,061. The whole amount raised during the year 
for school purposes was $8,602.05, $5'299.ii of which was received by local 
tax. Charles E. Whitney was school commissioner. 

Alexandria Bay, the most populous and most important village in the 
town, was selected by Cadwallader Child, in 1804, while surveying a road (the 
Alexandria road) from the Friends' settlement to the St. Lawrence, as an 
eligible place for a port, and accordingly a reservation of a mile square was- 
made by Mr. Le Ray for a village, which was surveyed out for that purpose 
by Edmund Tucker about 18 18. Mr. Le Ray erected a tavern and ware- 
house, and for many years a thriving lumber trade was carried on, which con- 
tinued as long as the supply lasted. The port has always been a landing- 
place for the American and more recently for the Canadian steamers. A 
custom house was established here in 1828, subordinate to the Cape Vincent 
district. The first log house was erected by John W. Fuller, in 18 18, and the 
first frame house by Dr. Jerre Carrier, in 1820. The latter occupied the 
present site of the St. Lawrence Hotel, of which, in fact, it forms a part. 
The first store was erected by Messrs. Jerre Carrier and John W. Fuller, and 
stood on the '' Point." Prominent among the business men of the place have 
been Jerre Carrier, Azariah Walton and his sons, John W. Fuller, Andrew 
Cornwall and his sons, Humphrey Sisson, and O. G. Staples. The business 
men of the present time are represented in the directory of the town. The 
first school-house was a primitive log structure, erected in 1821. It stood on 
the lot now occupied by the Reformed Church. The first church was that 
of the Reformed Protestant Dutch Church Society, erected in 1848, and 
opened for public religious worship in 185 i. 

A fine graded school building was erected in 1884, and in 1885 it was first 
opened for classes. It has five departments under the instruction of compe- 
tent teachers, and John O'Leary is the principal. 

For more than a quarter of a century Alexandria Bay has been visited as 
a summer resort. Its location in the immediate vicinity of the most numer- 
ous cluster of the Thousand Islands, and its beautiful situation on the St. 
Lawrence, constitute the salient characteristics of its popularity. In 1848 Mr. 
C. Crossmon began keeping hotel at the Bay, but it was not until 1872 that the 
rush commenced, although a few persons, some of them men of note, had 
made it their summer vacation place for years. Among these early visitors 



248 TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA. 



were Governor Seward, Martin and John Van Buren, Silas Wright, Frank 
Blair, Preston King, General Dick Taylor, and Rev. George Bethune. In 
1872 President Grant and family and a party of their friends accepted an 
invitation from George W. Pullman, of palace-car notoriety, to visit his island 
cottage. In 1872-73 the present magnificent "Thousand Island House'' 
and the equally fine " Crossmon House" were erected and thrown open to 
the public, since which time no watering-place has received a better or more 
elegant patronage. 

Alexandria Bay has never been noted for its manufactories, except perhaps 
for the superior class of small skiffs and steam yachts built here. It con- 
tains two steam saw and lumber-dressmg mills, and a goodly number of stores 
and mechanic shops, including the machine shop of Louis Tassey, where the 
repairing of marine machinery is made a specialty. A. C. Mclntyre's photo- 
graphic studio supplies a great number of Thousand Island views, and the 
variety is constantly increasing. Indian baskets, bead work, and other curios 
here find a ready market during the summer season. The village is provided 
with a steam fire engine and other adequate fire apparatus. 

The Alexandria Bay Sfeamboat Co., organized in 1887, built the steamer 
JVetv Island Wanderer, which took the place of the Island Wanderer, and 
has for two years made the famous route inaugurated by Capt. E. W. Visger, 
under whose management the new boat has been run. A. C. Cornwall, of 
Alexandria Bay, is treasurer of the company. The boat is one of the fastest 
on the river and is very popular with summer visitors. 

Redwood (p. o.), a thriving village near the line of Theresa, owes its ori- 
gin to a glass factory established by John S. Foster, who for several years had 
been engaged in this business, as agent, in various localities. In April, 1833, 
he visited this county, examined several localities, and finally selected this, 
which is on the stream connecting Mud and Butterfield lakes, the former of 
which is about 94 feet above the latter, affording a limited water-power, that 
had several years previous been improved by the erection of a saw and grist- 
mill by David Smith, of Adams. Foster contracted with Francis Depau for 
a tract of 10,000 acres, as agent, borrowed several thousand dollars of Depau, 
and the same summer erected a glass factory, and on September 30, 1833, 
the first glass was made. The village was surveyed by Thomas Clark, and 
named Jamesville, but Mr. Foster gave the place the present name, from its 
similarity to " Redford/' his late residence, in hopes of thus being able to 
compete in the sale of glass with an establishment from which he claimed to 
have been unjustly discharged. The glass factory has at times been con- 
ducted by the following : Schmauss & Co., Gerlach & Son, Ingleson, 
Forbes & Co., and H. S. White, and from 1844 by Dezeng & Co. from the 
Clyde glass factory. In 1853 a joint stock company, with a capital of $12,- 
000, was formed, entitled the " Redwood Glass Manufacturing Companv." 
In 1859 W. W. Butterfield became connected with the concern as its presi- 
dent, and subsequently purchased all the stock. The works are not now in. 



1 



TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA. 249 



•operation. A wool-carding and cloth-dressing factory was built here in 1846, 
hy William Page. Cook & Smith manufacture sash, doors, blinds, and 
■moldings, and Daniel Springer has a steam saw-mill at Redwood. 

Plessis (p. o.) is situated midway on the old Alexandria and Theresa 
plank-road, three miles from Redwood. It derived its name from a place 
in France. It is familiarly known as " Flat Rock," from the prevalence of 
the Potsdam sandstone formation in the vicinity, which presents a consider- 
able portion of naked rock. In 1817 Mr. Le Ray erected a grist-mill here on 
Plessis Creek, which was purchased by Jason Clark and William Shurtleff and 
rebuilt in 1830. The first store was opened by Lull & Walton, in 1820. 
The first log house was erected by William Merrill in 181S, and was after- 
wards by him converted into an inn. Here, in 1826, he was murdered by 
one John Powell, who was sentenced to 14 years imprisonment for the crime. 
The first frame house was erected by William Tanner, and was used by him 
as a dwelling and a store. The first church edifice was the Union building 
erected in 1833. A tannery was erected near the village on Plessis Creek in 
1821, by James Carter. A school-house was built in 1826, after the forma- 
tion of the districts. The chief manufactories in the vicinity of Plessis are 
the grist, saw, and shingle-mills of John H. Cline, and the saw-mill of Horace 
P. Hoyt. 

Spaff'ord vfroie in 1823 of Alexandria in 1821, when it was erected as a 
township : Alexandiia Bay had several houses, a tavern, store, and forward- 
ing house. On Mullet Creek there was a saw-mill, and on Plessis Creek a 
saw-mill and a grist-mill. The population was estimated 2^1 150 families, the 
■census being included in that of Le Ray and Brownville. 

The first improvement in this town was made about i8ri, by Mr. Le Ray, 
who caused a clearing to be made at Alexandria Center, to aff"ord facilities to 
first settlers by supplying them with grain until it could be raised by them- 
selves. He paid %\2 per acre with the ashes, and half the first crop, for 
these jobs, and built a log barn. In 181 1 the proprietors made the Morris 
and Hammond road, extending from Hammond village to the Red Tavern, 
near Theresa, where it intersected another road, from the river to Philadelphia. 
The former was cleared four rods wide, bridged and seeded with grass, but 
had become nearly closed up when it was opened as a part of the Military 
road, in 1820-23. 

Cranberry Creek, about three miles from its mouth, was, during the War 
of 181 2, the scene of an engagement that is detailed in the County Chapter 
under the heading " War of 181 2." Sales of land commenced in this town 
in 1816. The first contracts were made payable in seven years, and required 
the settlers, within one year, to build a house, equal to a log house 18 feet 
square, and to clear one twenty-fifth part of the land contracted in a farmer- 
like manner. Prices began at $3 per acre, and after 1820 mineral reserva- 
tions were inserted in contracts and deeds. James Carnagie, Samuel Youngs, 
William Martin, Moses George, Leicester Hoadley, Root, John W. 



250 TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA. 



Fuller, Jerre Carrier were early settlers. The town continued to increase in 
population rapidly until 1828, when a sickly season checked its growth, and 
gave it a reputation for unhealthfulness from which it was slow in recovering. 

CHURCHES. 

The Reformed Church of the Thousand Isles, located at Alexandria Bay, 
was organized August i, 1851, with five male and eight female members. 
Rev. Anson Dubois was ths first pastor. The church building, a stone struc- 
ture, 35 by 55 feet, was begun in 1848, and was opened for worship May 25, 
185 1. It has a seating capacity for 300 persons, cost $2,822, and is now 
valued, includmg grounds and other church property, at $10,000. Tne 
present membership is 1 10, under the pastoral charge of Rev. C. Parks Evans. 
The Sunday-school has 150 scholars and 10 teachers. 

The First Methodist Episcopal Church of Alexandria Bay had, for its 
first pastor, Rev. William M. Holbrook. The church buildmg, a wooden 
structure, cost $6,500, and is now valued, including grounds and other church 
property, at $10,000. It has a seating capacity for 280 persons. The present 
membership is 134, and Rev. Earl H. Kenyon is pastor. It supports a 
Sunday-school of 14 officers and teachers, and 95 scholars. 

The First Methodist Episcopal Church of Redwood was organized July 
8, 1889, by Rev. C. Phelps, the first pastor, who continues in that capacity, 
and at its organization consisted of 10 members. Their house of worship, in 
course of construction, will, when finished, seat about 300 persons. The 
present membership is 20. 

St. Peter s Church (Protestant Episcopal), of Redwood, was organized 
August 12, 1850, and the house of worship was erected in 1851. It will 
comfortably seat 175 persons, and is valued, including grounds and other 
property, at $3,200. The present membership is 75, of whom 25 are com- 
municants. Rev. George G. Perrine, of Theresa, is rector. The Sunday- 
school has a membership of 35 scholars and si.x; teachers. 

The Church of St. Lawrence (Protestant Episcopal), at Alexandria Bay, 
was begun as a mission in 1880, with Rev. F. B. A. Lewis, M. D., as rector, 
and has not yet been organized as a separate parish church. Their house of 
worship, now in process of erection, of Laurentian stone, will comfortably 
seat 250 persons, and has already cost $1,800. The present rector is Rev. 
G. G. Perrine, of St. James's Church, Theresa. 



TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA. 25 1 



ANDREW CORNWALL. 

Andrew Cornwall, the ancestor of Andrew Cornwall, of Alexandria Bay, 
emigrated to this country from England, with his family, some where about 
1 710, and settled in Old Chatham, Conn, (now Portland), where three 
generations of the same name lived and died. The third Andrew Cornwall, 
grandfather of our subject, was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, and died 
after the close of that war from a wound received in the battle of Bennington. 

Andrew Cornwall, 4tb, father of our subject, with two brothers, William and 
Ancil, left Connecticut about 1800, and came to what was at that time called 
the far West, or Genesee country. Their first stop was at what is now the city 
of Rochester, then a wilderness, where there was a small settlement; but think- 
ing it was a swamp country, and not a good place to locate, they went to what 
is now Pultneyville, Wayne County, N. Y., where there was another small set- 
tlement with a saw-mill and grist mill. Here they located and married, and 
here our subject was born March 25, 18 14. After attending the district 
school winters, and working on the farm summers, until 13 years old, he 
entered the country store of John Reynolds, and continued in his employ for 
13 years as clerk and book keeper. His health failing him, from close appli- 
cation to business, he purchased a small vessel and went on the lakes as a 
sailor. After three years of this business, his health being fully restored, he 
sold his vessel and left the water. In January, 1843, he was married to Mary 
C. Cathoun, who is still living. In July, 1844, he moved to Redwood, Jef- 
ferson County, N. Y., and entered the employ of De Zang & Burlingame, 
manufacturers of glass. He was in charge of their store for two and a half 
years. In November, 1846, at the solicitation of Azariah Walton, he moved 
to Alexandria Bay, and took an interest in the firm of L. A. Walton & Co., 
then organized, which continued until 1853, when L. A. Walton died. A new 
firm was then organized, under the name of Cornwall & Walton. John F. Wal- 
ton being the junior partner, which partnership contmued until April i, 1877, 
when Cornwall and Walton both retired from business, and the firm of Corn- 
wall Brothers was formed, consisting of the four sons of Andrew Cornwall, 
viz.: Andrew C, Charles W., John I., and Harvey A. This firm is still in 
business. 



251 TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA. 



Andrew Cornwall was supervisor of his town from 1852 to 1856, and again 
from 1S61 to 1865. Being what was then called a war Democrat he was 
made a member of the war committee of the county, though the board of 
supervisors was largely Republican. He served the committee faithfully in 
recruiting and filling the quotas of his own town and the county, often to 
the serious detriment of his own private business. In 1867 he was nominated 
by his party for member of Assembly, and, although his competitor was elected 
the year previous by a large majority, Mr. Cornwall was successful. While in 
the Legislature of 1868 he was a member of the Committee of Ways and 
Means, cf the manufacture of salt, and of the sub committee of the 
whole. He was, in the fall of 1868, candidate for Congress against Hon. 
A. H. Lafiin, and as his party was largely in the minority he was defeated by 1 
very small majority. 

In 1845 Azariah Walton bought of Henry Yates the north half of Wells 
Island, and all the small islands in the River St. Lawrence, in American 
waters, from Round Island, in Clayton, to the village of Morristown, St. I 
Lawrence County. At his death the firm of Cornwall & Walton bought 
them from his estate, for the timber, and for many years they cut steamboat 
wood from them, some years getting as high as 12,000 cords. After the wood 
was mostly cut off the larger ones were sold for fatms. About i860 wood 
began to give way to coal, and they determined to sell them at a nominal 
price to induce people to build on them summer homes, thereby making the 
St. Lawrence River a famous watering-place, cf which there can be no doubt 
they have succeeded. 

Mr. Cornwall commenced his business career with very limited means, but 
with a determination to succeed. With close attention to every detail, and a 
constant care that no debt should be made that could not be met when due, 
and no unnecessary expense incurred, he has succeeded in his determination 
to attain to a reasonable competency. 

Mr. Cornwall has never been an ostentatious man, though in business mat- 
ters he has alsvays been energetic and prompt, exacting from others only 
what he would himself do if in their places. The example of such a life as 
Mr. Cornwall's is a benefit in any community. Any young man, if he pur- || 
sue a persistent course towards a desirable and honorable end, may succeed, 
if he will, in this favored land of ours. 



TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA. 251 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 

Azariah Walton, born In Chesterfield, N. H., August 20, 178-1, was of English descent. He 
emigrated to Jefterson County previous to the War of 1812, and sn])erintended the construc- 
tion of the cotton-mills at Brownville as an expert mechanic. In 1824 he removed from 
Brownville to Theresa, where he was a merchant until 1828, when he received the appoint- 
ment of deputy collector of customs for the port of Alexandria Bay, which office he held for 
nearly 19 years, and lived here until his death. June 10, 185.5. Mr. Walton became owner of a 
large portion of the American islands in the St. Lawrence Kiver, and through life was a prom- 
inent man of the town and county. 

Andrew Cornwall was born in Pultneyville, N. Y., March 25, 1814. He is of English 
descent, and the name Andrew has desc-nded through seven generations. His grandfather 
Andrew served in the Revolutionary war under General Washington and was wounded in 
action. Mr. Cornwall attended the common schools until he attained the age of 13 years, when 
he engaged as clerk in the general store of a Mr. Reynolds, where lie remained 13 years. His 
health not permitting a continuance of mercantile pursuits, he engaged in sailing on the lakes 
for three and a half years. In 1844 he came to Redwood and was employed by the Redwood 
Glass Company for two years. In 1846 he located in Alexandria Bay and formed a partnership 
^ith L. A. Walton,* which continued until Mr. Walton's death in 1853. He then formed a 
partnership with the Walton Brothers, which was continued until 1877, since which time the 
business has been conducted under the firm name of Cornwall Brothers. In 1842 Mr. Corn- 
wall married Mary Calhoon, of WiUiamson, N. Y., and they have had live sons, four of whom 
survive, namely: Andiew C, Charles W., John I., and Harvey A., who are members of the 
firm of Cornwall Brothers. Mr. Cornwall was a member of the Assembly in 1868. 

Jacob H. Sprinu;er, a native of Herkimer County, came to Alexandria in 1834. Daniel, son 
of Jacob H., was one year old when he came to this town with his parents. He was educated 
in the common schools, and February 25, 1859, married Martha, eldest daughter of Benjamin 
Fox, of this town, and they have a son, George B., who married Mattie Pierce and has two 
sons. Earl and Jay. Martin Springer, son of Jacob H., was born in Alexandria about 1837. 
He received a liberal education, and January 31, 1865, he married Eliza A. Russell, of this, 
town, and they have had four sons, three of whom survive, namely: Neau, Mark, and Fred. 
Mr. Springer is a farmer and town assessor. 

Abel Bigelow, a native of Massachusetts, came to Alexandria about 1834 and settled in 
Redwood, where he engaged in farming. He married Amelia Tilton and they had ten children, 
live of whom are living, three in this county, namely: Juliet (Mrs. Benjamin Whitney), Sarah 
(Mrs. A. L. White), and Alzina L. (Mrs. Alonzo Kring), of Champion. 

Rush R. Cline, a farmer, was born at Three Mile Bay, in the town of Lyme, July 8, 1845. 
He was reared upon a farm and attended the common schools. He has been twice married. 
January 15, 1872, he wedded with Hannah Fenton, of Lyme, who bore him a son, Mark D., 
and died July 30, 1876. January 3, 1877, he married Mrs. Rena (Way) Wells, of Lyme, and 
they have a daughter, Mary W., who was born April C, 1878. By her first marriage Mrs. Cline 
had a daughter, Maud H. Way. 

Joseph Houghton was born in Fairlee, Vt.. January 24, 1820. When he was 11 years old 
his parents removed to Watertown, and two years later located in the town of Orleans. He 
located in Alexandria about 1835, when there were few roads in the town. January 1, 1846, 
he married Jane, daughter of Daniel Clark, a native of Thetford, Vt., and they have had nine 
children, five of whom attained adult age, namely: Almon H., Albert D., Martha, Jennett S., 
and Elvia C. Martha married Allen Russell and died leaving six children. Jennett S mar- 
ried William Kepler, of Wells Island, and died leaving a son. Mr. and Mrs. Houghton occupy 
the homestead where they have resided 43 years. Almon H. was born in Alexandria and wa» 
educated in the common schools. At the age of 23 years he married Candace L., daughter of 
Abram Raught, of Orleans, and they have had four children, three of whom survive, namely: 
Norris A., Lillian J., and Linnie M. 

Ebenezer D. Smith, a native of Dutchess County, N. Y., married Phebe Cough, of Johns- 

* The firm of Cornwall & Walton for many years were heavy contractors in wood for 
steamboats, and by the employment of the citizens in its production and delivery aided 
materially in the development of the town. 



252 TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA. 



town, N. Y., and tliey had three sous and seven daughters, namely: Caroline, Amy E., Har- 
riet M., Margaret A., George H.. William D., Francis M., Stephen A., Joanna A., and Les- 
tina. George H. Smith was born in St. Lawrence Country, whence lie removed to Jeft'erson 
County in 1846. He received a good common school education and followed farming the 
greater part of his life. In 1858, at the age of 27 years, he married Mary Jane, daughter of 
Solomon Makepeace, of Alexandria, and they have two sons and one daughter, namely : Ar- 
thur J., Carrie J., and George E. Arthur J. Smith is a cheesemaker and resides at home with 
his father. Canie J. married John Cook, of Redwood. George E. is an oarsman and guide, 
and resides with his father. 

David Parker was born inVermont in 1809. He married, first, Persis Hill, and they had three 
sons, Edson D., Marijuis W., and Byron. He married, second, Persis Kimball, of Rutland, and 
they had a son. Loren M. In 1837 Mr. Parker located on road 22. in Antwerp, where he re- 
sided until his death, aged 50 years. Loren M. Parker received a common school edu.catiou and 
is now engaged in farming. September 15, 1870, he married Sarah S. Merrill and they have one 
son, Frank L. They reside near the village of Redwood. 

Mosps C. Jewett was born in Windsor. Vt., February 11, 1815. About 1845 hemarriedMary 
A. Wakefield, of Reading, Vt., and in 1846 they removed to this town and located at what is 
now known as Jewett's Corners. They had two sons and four daughters, namely : Laura A., 
Henrietta A., Emma, Marcus J., Marion I., and Charles C. Marcus J. Jewett received a lib- 
eral education. September 10, 1879, he married Libbie M. Marklie, and they have four chil- 
dren, namely : Frank G., Morris H., Ina C, and John C. He now occupies the homestead 
settled by his father 43 years ago. Moses C. Jewett was a member of the Assembly in 1859-60. 

John Rudes was born in Saratoga County, N. Y., in 1815. He removed to the town of Phil- 
adelphia, and when 20 years of age married Pamelia Stevens, of Plessis, by whom he had eight 
children, four of whom are living, namely: EarlS., Lorenzo 0., Rufus S., and Amelia. Rufus 
S. Rudes was born in Alexandria, October 30, 1847. September 16, 1869, when 22 years of age, 
he married Cora C. Duclon, of Antwerp, by whom he has had six children, five of whom sur- 
vive, namely: Warren J., Bertha P., Minnie P., Rufus E., and George E. 

John Moore was born in Kings County, Ireland, about 1819, and in 1840 he emigrated to this 
country and located in Watertown, where he resided about seven years. April 2, 1849, he mar- 
ried Mary, only daughter of Thomas McCartin, of Redwood, and they had ten children, — two 
sons and eight daughters, ^of whom eight survive, namelj' : Ellen, Alice, John H., Catherine 
F., Elizabeth C, Agues L., Emma L., and Emmet J. John H. Aloore was born on the home- 
stead on road 23, November 14, 1857. He received a liberal education, having attended the 
High school in Watertown several terms. He married Elsie Bauder, of this town, and thej- 
have two sons and a daughter, namely : Francis S., Maurice E., and Mary Catherine. 

Erastus Hardy was born in the town of Sandy Creek, Oswego County, October 31, 1815. 
In 1820 his parents located in Pamelia, subsequently removing to Le Ray, and flnallj' locating 
in Alexandria, where his son Charles J. is now engaged in farming. His first wife, Jane Wiley, 
of Hounsfield, whom he married November 15, 1838, bore him two children, Sylvester and 
Susan. His second wife, Catherine (Sheely) Van Brocklin, bore him three children, Jane, 
Valeria, and Charles J. 

David Countryman was born in Herkimer County, December 23, 1815. He married Laviiia 
Shoemaker, and they have had eight children, namely : Joseph, George, Hannah C, Reu- 
ben, Charles H., Orvice, Mary A., and Martha. Joseph Countryman was born in Herkimer 
County, September 30, 1842, and when one year old removed with his parents to Pamelia. He 
located in Alexandria when nine years of age. When 20 years of age he enlisted in the late 
war. October 30, 1866, he married Mary, adopted daughter of John Roof, and they have two 
children, Arthur R. and May E. 

Claudius Duclon, father of Andrew C, was born on the eastern part of Wells Island in 
1807. When 38 years of age he married Sophia Curler, of Chaumont Bay, by whom he had six 
children, of whom Annie died at the age of 10 years, Charles at the age of 19, and four survive, 
namely : William, Mary, Daniel, and Andrew C. The latter was born in Alexandria Bay, No- 
vember 27, 1852. Juno 15, 1872, he married Adelia, daughter of Thomas Comstock, of Alex- 
andria Bay, and they have two sons, Charles E. and Arthur H. 

Daniel Rappole was born January 14, 1802, and came to Jefferson County from Oneida in 
1828. February 11, 1823, he married Blary Billington, by whom he had three sons, namely: 
Benjamin F., John G., and James M. December 13, 1829, he married for his second wife 



TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA. 253; 



Emily Cole, and they had four children, namely: Mary M.. Harriet E., Emily, and Frank. The 
latter was born in the town of Pamelia, where he attended the common schools until he was 
18 years of age. October 7, 1870, at the a^e of 32 years, he married Addie Nash, of Orleans, and 
they have four children, namely: Kate M., Jessie E., Lewis D., and F. Lcroy. He is a farmer 
in this town, and was a soldier in the lOtli N. Y. H. A. 

Frederick Snell, son of Frederick who served in the War of 1812 at Plattsbnrgh, was born 
in Herkimer County, October 2, 1801. When he was ijuite young his parents located in Low- 
ville, N. Y., where he married, March 11, 1828, Mary A., daughter of Abijah Crabb, by whom 
he had eight children, five of whom survive, namely: Marella, Lucy A., Amelia, Denacious, 
and Emily. Denacious Snell was born iu Theresa, May 15, 1840, and attended the public 
schools until he attained the age of 19 years. March 8, 1862, he married Maria, daughter of 
Joseph Petrie, and they have four children, viz.: Elmer F., Goidence A., Clarence 11., and 
Gertie A. Mr. Snell is a farmer and resides in Alexandria. 

Allen Cole located in this town in 1853. Napoleon B. Cole, son of Allen, was born in 
Theresa, August 12, 1848, and came to Alexandria with his father, where he received a common 
school education and is now engaged in farming. May 21, 1871, he mariied Elizabeth, young-- 
est daughter of Hiram Clark, of Elizabethtown, Canada, and they have three sons and three 
daughters, viz.: Gordon, Carrie M., Allie E., Dexter A., Ethel M., and Linn B. 

Peter Loucks was born near Montreal, Canada, and when about 21 a ears of age located in 
Montgomery County. He married Sarah Kelly, of Fort Plain, N. Y. Of their 14 children, 
Alexander was born at Fort Plain in 1831, and in 1848 he located in St. Lawrence County. In 
1857 he married Augusta Ellsworth, in the village of Redwood, and they have had 10 children, 
eight of whom survive, namely : Ardell, Aniina, Eva, Ida, Addie, Verna, Ernest, and Arthur. 
Ardell married Alfred Woodard and now resides in Chautauqua County. Eva married Horace 
Cole, of Redwood. Mr. and Mrs. Loucks reside iu Redwood. Mr. Loucks served in the late 
war and was honorably dischaiged in 1865. 

George Djbbins came from County Kildare, Ireland, and located in Andover, N. J., in 1807. 
He served in the War of 1812. Andrew C, son of George, was born in Ireland in 1804. He 
was educated in the common schools and for 15 years was a sailor. When 36 years of age he 
married Eliza Warren, in Canada, where he then resided, and they had three sons and seven 
daughters who attained adult age. George B. Dobbins, one of the sons, was born in Le Ray, 
March 4, 1854. When he was live years of age his parents located in this town near Alexan- 
dria Bay. April 23, 1874, he married Phebe A. Hawkins, who was born iu Canada and came to 
Alexandria when she was three years old. They have two sons and three daughters, namely: 
Abbie M., Lswis G., Mary L., George B., and Margaret. Mr. Dobbins resides at Dobbins's 
Point, in this town. 

Jay H. Van Dresar was born in Clayton, March 30, 1832. November 22, 1857, he married 
Maria Dobbins, of Alexandria, by whom he had three children, two of whom, Milton B. and 
William R., survive. Milton B. Van Dresar was born June 8, 1861, and is now a captain and 
pilot on the St. Lawrence River. When IS years old he married Percy A. Helmer, of Redwood, 
December 25, 1879, and they have a daughter, Ula M., and reside in the village of Alexandria 
Bay. 

Henry W. Westcott was born in Onondaga Coirnty in 1832, and when he was a year old his 
parents removed to Jefferson County. In 1853 he married Jane, daughter of Francis Thom- 
son, of Alexandria Bay, and they had four children, only one of whom, William T., survives. 
He married, second, Isabella Thomson, of Canada, by whom he had two children, one of whom, 
Allen F., survives. William T. Westcott was born in Alexandria Bay, Apiil 28, 1859. He at- 
tended the graded scliool until he attained the age of 17 years. September 29, 1887, he mar- 
ried Jane A. Crabb, and they reside in Alexandria Bay. Mr. Westcjtt is owner and captain of 
the steamer Minide. 

Edward Bartram was born in Oakley, England, March 3, 1809. About 50 years ago he 
came to this country and located in the town of Le Ray, whence he subsequently removed to 
Theresa. He married Mary Ford, also a native of England, and they have liad 12 children, 
seven of whom survive, namely: Abraham, Eliza, Rosella, Edward. Henry, George, and Will- 
iam. George Bartram was born in Theresa, where he received a good practical education. He 
was reared upon a farm, and when 20 years of age married Ellen Price, of Theresa, by whom 
he had one child, who died in infancy. His wife died one year after their marriage. For his 
second wife he married Almira Burnham, of Rossie, N. Y., by whom he has two daughters,. 



2 54 TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA. 



Inez E. <aiid Nellie B. He resides with his family on road 55, in this town. Edward D. Bar- 
tram, son of Edward, was born in Theresa in 1849. He married, in 1876, Alice A. Pierce, of 
Alexandria, and they have a son and a daughter, Adrah A. and Frank L. They reside on 
road 2. 

John Bellinger was born in Boonville, N. Y., December 13, 1820. In 1848 he married 
Lydia Anthony, of Shufty Corners, town of Theresa, and about five years later removed with 
his wife to Vicivsbui'g, Miss., where he resided a year and a half, when he returned to New 
York and located in the town of Ohio. Their children were Luther, Sarah J., Mary E., Nancy, 
Jolni H., and Frederick. Lutlier Bellinger was born in Boonville, May 2, 1849. He was edu- 
cated in the district schools and did pioneer work on his father's farm. November 11, 1877, 
when 28 years of age, he married Emily, daughter of Horace Barrows, of Orleans, and they 
have two children, Frank E. and Tcnne C. They were married in tlieir ijresent home on Wall 
street, in Plessis village. 

George Waggoner, a native of Wurtemberg, Germany, came to the United States in 1848 
and located in Utica, N. Y. He married Anna Sayer and they had 12 children, namely: John, 
George, William, Alfred, Rosa, Mary, Anna, Helen, Ettie, Lilly, Alice, and Joseph. John 
Waggoner received a common school education. He has been married three times, first, to 
Frances Crockei-, of Orwell, N. Y., by whom he had three childien, Ettie, Edith, and Edwin; 
second, to Mary Avery, also of Orwell; and third, December 6, 1884, to Mrs. Mary Timmer- 
nian, of Plessis. Mrs. Waggoner has also been married three times. Her first husband was 
Joseph Potrie, of Alexandria, and her second, Ezra Timmerman, of Plessis. Mr. and Mrs. 
Waggoner reside on road 52, near Plessis village. 

George Place was born in Rhode Island, where he married Lydia Kenyon, by whom he had 
11 children. In 1828 Geori;e, Jr., when 17 years of age, located with his brother Horace 
in the town of Wilna. At the age of 21 years he married Amanda, daughter of Horace T(joley, 
of Wilna, and they have had 11 children, one of whom died in infancy, and 10 survive, 
namely: Lewis, who married Melissa Walradt, of Plessis; Lorinda, who married Harvey 
Meyers, of Plessis; Abigail, who married Daniel White, of FuUerville; Lydia, who married 
Lemiiel Hubbard, of Wilna; Horace, who married Jennie Foster, of Theresa; Isaiah, who mar- 
ried Ardelle Meyers, of Sterlingville; Mary J., who married Levi Holcomb, of Plessis; Eliza, 
who married Orson Dye, of Hodman; Chester, who married Mina Hosmer, of Pitcairn; and 
Franklin, who married Alice Phillips, of Theresa. Mr. Place served in Co. E, 186tli Regt. 
N. Y. Vols. , until the close of the war. He has been married 56 years and resides with his wife 
•on road 56. 

Aslier Lewis was born in Petersburg, N. Y., February 28, 1792. His education was limited 
to the common schools, and he assisted his father in the pioneer work on the farm. At the 
iige of 25 years he married Nancy M., daughter of Enos Biiggs, of Pownal, Vt., by whom he 
had seven children. He settled in the town of Antwerp. One son, Royal S., died September 
8, 1888. Elias D. Lewis was born in the town of Antwerp, where he received a common school 
education. In 1863 he married Jane, daughter of Francis C. Lawton, of Antwerp. Their 
adopted daughter, Theresa C, a young lady of rare accomplishments and lovable disposition, 
died September 10, 1888. 

Albert McCallops was born September 23, 1850. October 23, 1872, he married Jane Heath, 
who bore him three daughters — Elsie A.. Nellie A., and Emma M. Mr. McCallops died August 
13, 1883. His widow survives and is caring for her fatherless children in a commendable 
manner. 

Anna Bailey, the mother of John Bailey, has been twice married, first, to John Jerad, of 
Theresa, by whom she had two children, John C. and Clark W., and second, to John Bailey, 
of Redwood, April 21, 1866. by whom she also had two sons, George and James. John Bailey 
<lied November 26, 1881. Her son George is a harnessmaker and resides in the village of Red- 
wood. John C. Jerad is an engineer and resides in Syracuse. Clark W. is a marine engineer 
on the St. Lawrence River. Mrs. Bailey resides on Church street in Redwood. 

Daniel Shannon was born in Cnunty Cork, Ireland, in 1827. and in 1847 he emigrated to 
the United States and located in the town of Theresa, subsequently removing to Alexandria. 
October 19, 1848, he married Ruth, daughter of Daniel Simpson, and they have a son, Austin 
W., who resides in the town of Theresa. Mr. Shannon served in the late war in Co. F, 10th 
N. Y. H. A. He is a farmer in this town. 

Alexander C. Pierce, a native of Massachusetts, married Cynthia Frink, of Cortland 



TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA. 255 



<]ounty, N. Y., by wliom he had five sons and two daughters, namely: James A., WiUiam C, 
Levi W., Laura A., Mary C, Clark F., and Benjamin F. The latter died while serving his 
country in the late war, as did also his brother Clark F. Levi W. was educated in the common 
schools of his native town. He has been three times married, first, to Josephine Priest, who 
bore liim two childi-en, Cynthia 11. and Oscar L.; second, to Betsey Walts, of Orleans, by 
whom he had three children, Delia A., Candice C, and Clark F. ; and third, to Marj' Boman, 
by whom he lias two children, Clinton L. and Anna E. His second wife died January 17, 1879. 

Amos Wheeler came from Massachusetts and located in the town of liodmau. He was 
twice married. His first wife bore him s^ix children, Angeline, Milton E., Lucy, Philander, 
Maryette, and Amos. His second wife, Abigail Kising, of Worth, bore him five children, three 
■of whom are now living, viz.: Marritta, Matilda, and Gilbert. Members of this family served 
their country in the Revolutionary war. War of 1812, and in the late civil war. Hiram Wheeler, 
son of Amos, was a member of the 35th N. Y. Vols, and died of a fever August 2, 1862. Gilbert 
Wheeler served three years in Co. F, 10th N. Y. H. A. January 19, 1868, he married Jane H., 
daughter of Alonson and Lucy (Makepeace) Cole, of Theresa, by whom he has had three sons 
and one daughter, of whom Jennie M., Earl C, and Alonsou survive. Mrs. Lucy Cole was a 
sister of the late Elliot Makepeace. 

George Hutchinson was born in County Armagh. Ireland, in 1808, and in 1834 he emigrated 
to Canada. He married Jane Henry, also a native of County Armagh, and they had nine chil- 
dren, namely : Mary, Ann, William H., Thomas, George, Jr., Sarah, Eliza, Samuel, and Amanda. 
George Hutchinson, Jr., was born on Wolf Island, near Kingston, Canada, January 9, 1852. 
He was reared upon a farm and educated in the common schools. January 28, 1877, when 24 
years of age. he married, at Cape Vincent, Maggie A., daughter of James C. Kemp, of Wolf 
Island, by whom he has had four children, one of whom died in infancy and three survive, 
namely : Margaret L. M., Jam^s H. S., and George A. A. Mr. Hutchinson resides on Wells 
Island, near Brown's Bay. 

JerredDingmau and his wife, Sarah, had eight children who attained maturity, seven of whom 
are hving, viz.: John H., William, Catherine, Elsie, Jason, Helen, and Robert. John H. Ding- 
man was born in Rome, N. Y., and in 1846, when three years of age. removed with his parents 
to Jetterson County. Wlien 19 years of age Mr. Dingman married Mary J., daughter of 
Charles Porter, of Alexandria Bay, and they have had 14 children, 11 of whom survive, namely : 
Eabert E.,Fred E., Jerred H., El>vin. Hjlen I., Catherine; P., Hatde E.. Georgiaiina, Frank, 
Myrtle, and Mary. Robert E. mirried Dorothy Gladd, of Alexandria Biy. Mr. Dingman re- 
sides on Holland street, in the village of Alexaiidiia Bay. 

Thomas Trickey was born in Mallorytown, Canada, in 1813. When 19 years old he married 
Emeliue Wells, who resided on Wells Island, in this town, and they had five sons and si.x diiu"'li 
ters, eight of whom survive, namely: Liicinda, Miller, Lewis, Alzina, Sophronia, Mary, Shel- 
don, and Peter. Sheldon Trickey was born in the village of Escott, Canada, July 10, 1850. 
When 23 years of age he married Elizabeth, eldest daughter of Augustus Landou, of Well-i 
Island, and they have two sous and one daughter, namely : Rosey M., Charles, and Bertie E. 
Mr. Ti ickey resides in Alexandria Bay. 

Merchant Carter, a native of Rhode Island, married Betsey Taylor, of Brownville, and thev 
had nine children who attained maturity, viz.: Clarissa, Taylor, Hiram. Elisha. Emeliue, Bet- 
sey, Ameha, Byron, and John D. John D. Carter was born in Orleans, Fv,bruary 14, 1844. 
December 10, 1878, he married Sarah Peabody, of Fisher's Lauding, and thej- have one son 
Harry. 

Irvin Calkins was born in Montreal, Canada, July 16, 1803. His parents had removed to 
Canada from the United States. In 1812 Irvin return 3d to the United States, and at the a^e 
of 25 years married Mary McCombs, of Paoaelia, and located in Perch River village in the 
town of Brownville. They had born to them niiiB children, five of whom survive, namelv: 
Mary, Walter, John, Edmund, and Taylo ■. Irvin Calkins died in 1888. John Calkins was born 
at Perch River, May 10, 1845. He was educated in the common schools, and attended Gouver- 
neur Seminary one term. March 11, 1863, he married Juliana, youngest daughter of Cyrus 
Allen, of Perch River, and they have one son and two daughters, namely: Lucv A., Jesse 
T. P., and Mary L. Lucy A. married T. H. Nanii, of Orleans, and they have one daughter, 
Nellie. Mr. and Mrs. Cilkius reside on road 41>^, on Wells Island. He is a school teacher 
and f aimer. 



256 TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA. 



Jerome B. Estes was born in North Adams, Mass., February 11.1818. In 1836 he located ia- 
Sanford's Corners, in the town of Le Ray, where he married, about 18i3, Rachel Boardman, 
and kept the hotel there for 14 years. He had born to him eight children, six of whom at- 
tained adult age, namely : Mary F., George W., John W., Byron J., Julia E., and AVilliani J. 
John W. Estes. of this town, was born at Sanford's Corners, July 2, 1848, and attended the 
conmion schools until he was 19 years of age. October 24, 1871, he raariued Emeline F. Joyner, 
and they have three children, Byron J., Lewis J., and Jesse G. 

Joseph Lashbrook was born in Gouverneur, N. Y., in 1823. He was reared upon a farm and 
educated in the common schools. In 1853 he married Angeline Warner, of Chaumont. and 
they had six children, five of whom survive, viz.: William E., Elbridge C, Charles L., PittW., 
and Olga G. William E. Lashbrook married Esther L. Plimpton, of Alexandria Baj% Febru- 
ary 15, 1877, and they have four daughters, namely : Amy E., Ida W., Eva L., and Kittle. 
They reside on Anthony street, in the village of Alexandria Bay. 

Charles De Young was born in Montreal, Canada, and when he was 12 years of age his pa- 
rents removed to Brockville. When 21 years of age he married Catherine Jeru, of Brock- 
ville, and they had born to them six sons and four daughters, namely : Jennie P., Charles J., 
William, Clarissa B., Catherine, Lucy, Clarence R., V/alter T., Ernest R., and Albert T. Cath- 
erine married William Getman and they have a son, William G. Charles De Young died Msy 
28, 1883. Mrs. De Young keeps a boarding-house on Church street, Alexandria Bay. 

Edward Herrick, a native of Massachusetts, married Almira Thurston, of Brownville, and 
they had eight children, viz.: Delos, Reuben, Angeline R., Hannah, Mary, Josephine, William, 
and Emogene. Delos Herrick was born in Brownville, April 23, 1838. April 9, 1861, he mar- 
ried Sophronia Curtis, of Theresa, and they have three children, namely : Edward, Cheeseman 
A., and Mina. Mr. Herrick served two years in the late war in Co. K, 14th N. Y. H. A. 

Martin Reester was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany. He married Barbara Betz, and 
they had one son and three daughters, namely : Catherine, Victoria, Cornelia, and Matthias, 
The latter was born in his father's native town, October 5, 1835, and when he was 12 years of age 
his parents emigrated to this country and located in the town of Orleans. October 10, 1865, 
Mr. Reester married Elizabeth Gillett, of Alesairdria, by whom he had a son, Charles G. Jan- 
uary 7, 1871, he married for his second wife Elizabeth Salisbury, of Alexandria, and they have 
three i?ons and two daughters, namely : Martin S., Curtis B., Ella G., Marion C, and Herman 
L. Mr. Reester served tliree years in the late war as sergeant in the 10th N. Y. H. A. 

Samuel Miller served in the War of 1812 and was killed in the battle of Plattsburgh. Ben- 
jamin C, soir of Samuel, was born in Connecticut, January 28, 1811, whence he removed to- 
New York state. September 10, 1834, he married Sarah Bogert, of Alexandria, who bore him 
six children, — three sons and three daughters, — four of whom survive, namely: Samuel B., 
Lyman E., William F., and Nancy C. Samuel B. Miller was born in Canton, N. Y., June 22, 
1835. He attended the common schools until 18 years of age, and at the age of 22 married 
Elizabeth, daughter of Jacob King, January 14, 1857, by whom he has had seven children, 
three of whom survive, namely: William E., who is a student in a medical college in New- 
York city; Hattie E., who married Durward B. Arnold, of Watertown, now a merchant in 
Alexandria Bay; and Carrie E., who married Captain Walter L. Visger, of Alexandria Bay. 
Mr. aird Mrs. Miller reside on Walton street, in Alexandria Bay. 

Truman S. Rowell, Sr., was bo)n in Oswego County, May 16, 1811. He was married three 
times, first, to Mary Rusco, March 31, 1833, who bore him seven children, namely: Almerin S., 
Syrena E., Caleb, Adelbert, Roderic B., Hosea F., and Sarah D. He married, second, Sophia 
White, who bore him one child, Herbert T., and died September 26, 1855. His third wife, 
Mrs. Sabra A. (McMullen) Hutchinson, bore him three children, namely: Truman S., Jr., E. 
Eugene, and Arthur H. Truman S. Rowell, Jr., was born in Alexandria. December 23, 1882, 
he married Emma S. Hunneyman, of this town, and they have two sons, Ernest G. and Harry 
Mr. RowcU's grandfather served in the War of 1812. 

William Tilley was born in Bristol, England, in 1825. In 1850 he married Matilda T. 
Dingley. also a native of Bristol, and they had five sons and two daughters. William J., their 
eldest son, was born in Swansea, Wales, September 28, 1851. Previous to his coming to Amer- 
ica he served three years and three months in the British navy under Captain Burgoyne in 
West Indian and Canadian waters. He attended the High school at Theresa, the commercial 
school at Watertown, and the Normal school at Potsdam. November 12, 1878, he married 



TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA. 257 



Alvira Wilson, of Theresa, and they have a son, Walter W., and reside in Alexandria on roat? 
49, corner 50. 

James Hosner was born in the town of Theresa, January 24, 1834. November 25, 1861, he 
married Lucy C, daughter of Levi Comstock, of Theresa, and the marriage ceremony wa» 
performed by Rev. Charles W. Treadwell. They have one son, Charles C, who received a 
liberal education and is now a justice of the peace. Charles C. was born in the town of 
Orleans, April 23, 1865. and now resides with his parents in the village of Plessis. He con- 
templates the study of law. 

Willard Williams was bora in Jefferson County in November, 1827. July 4, 1850. he mar- 
ried Caroline Rhines, of Orleaus, and they had three sons and two daughters, namely: Adel- 
bert D., Jeanett, Albert J., Adelaide M., and Emma E. Adelbert D. attended the common 
schools until he attained his majority. November 1, 1875, he married Elida A. Hunneyman, 
of Alexandria, and they have had four children, three of whom survive, viz.: Foster E., 
Adelphia W., and Clark A. 

Edwin D. Spalsbury was born at Sandy Creek, N. Y., December 15, 1829. His parents re- 
moved to Jefferson County, where he was educated in the common schools of Alexandria. He 
served in the late war in Co. B, 94th N. Y. Inf. December 10, 1863. he married Emeline Van 
Brockhn, by whom he had a daughter, Ella L., who married Melvin E. Timmerman, of Orleans, 
October 10, 1888. Mr. Spalsbury died August 26, 1887. His widow survives and resides in the 
village of Plessis. 

Peter D. Putnam was born in Florida. He married Hannah Adams, also a native of 
Florida, and they had 11 children, 10 of whom sitrvive, viz.: David P.. Eliza A., Nancy, Maria,. 
John A., Clarissa, Roxiana, Margaret, Mary M.,and Hannah. John A. removed with his parents- 
to New York. He married, first, Mariett Keecli, January 15, 1840, and they had four children,. 
Minerva C, Lucy M., Squire U., and Esther J. For his second wife he married, in Chicago,. 
111., Pauline Jewett, of Sanfoid's Corners, and they now reside in the village of Plessis, in 
this town. 

William Shannou was born in this town about 1831. He married Ann Dayton, of Vermont, 
and they had a son and a daughter, Derinda and Gilljert. The latter was born April 24, 1851, 
and has been twice married. His first wife, Jennett Williams, of Alexandria, bore him a son 
and a daughter, and the son, William W., survives. October 7, 1884, he married Jennie E. 
Pierce, of Alexandria Bay, and they have a son, Gilbert C, and occupy the homestead on 
road 61. 

Joseph Hind was born in Barnaby, England, in 1808. He married, first, Eunice South- 
worth, by whom he had four children, George, Jane, Nanc}', and Morris. He married, second.. 
Janett Shields, a native of Scotland, by whom he had one son, Norman S. The latter received 
a common school education and is now engaged in farming on road 53. June 19. 1881, he 
married Florence E. Tahash, of this town. 

Hironemus Bicklehaupt was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, in 1806, and died in this 
country July 14, 1875, aged 69 years and five months. He married Margai-et Hartman, also a 
native of Hesse-Darmstadt, and they had two children, only one of whom, Adam, survives. 
Adam Bicklehaupt was born in his father's native town, March 10, 1848, and in 1853 emigrated 
with his parents to this country, where he attended the common schools. July 14, 1874, he 
married Mina, youngest daughter of Seth Olney, by whom he has two sons and one daughter, 
viz.: Miles H., Carl O.. and Calla A. Mr. Bicklehaupt is a general merchant in the village of 
Redwood. 

Asa Arnold, a native of Vermont, married Percy Atwood, also a native of that state, and 
they had seven children, four of whom survive, namely: Daniel, Rhodelia, Philo, and Juliet. 
Daniel Arnold, of this town, was born in the town of Rodman, June 8, 1825. He married Lois 
Halt, of Oswego County, who died February 11, 1887. They had three children, Watson E., 
Wilford, and Emma M. 

Jacob Hatt"ord was born in New Bedford, Mass.. about 1783, whence he removed to this 
county and located in Brownville. whore his son Henry was born November 11, 1824. Febru- 
ary 11, 1854, Henry Haftbrd married Elmerva C. Wakefield, who was born in Windsor, Vt. They 
have had three sons and two daughters, namely : Alice and Nellie, who died young, and Hiram 
W., Edgar W., and Henry J., who survive. Hiram W. is mining in New Mexico; Edgar W. 
is a book-keeper in Utica ; and Henry J. is a farmer and resides with his father in this town. 
17* 



258 TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA. 



John A. Davis was born in Brockvi21e, Canada, March 12, 1848. He attended school nntil he 
attained the a^e of 16, and for many years was an oarsman on the St. Lawrence River. 
November 3, 1871, he married Kattie E. Fox, of Alexandria Bay, and thej' have one daughter, 
Luella M. For the past 14 years Mr. Davis has been in the employ of H. H. Warner, of Roch- 
ester, as captain of his steam yacht and overseer of Warner Island. He resides in Alexandria 
Bay. His father, Alvin H. Davis, who was born July 13, 1813, married Dina I. Butler, a na- 
tive of Vermont, and they had eight children. John A. Davis and his sister Jane were twins. 

Josepli Petrie was born in Herkimer County in 1811, and when five years of age removed 
with his parents to Le Ray. He was married three times. His tirst wife, Pamelia Storing, 
bore him six children, namely: Martin, Betsey, Maria, Benjamin, Amelia, and J. Fianldin, 
His second wife, Elizabeth R. McMullen, of Alexandria, bore him one daughter, Emma V. For 
his tliird wife he married Olive Parsons, of Rodman. Bnjamin Petrif, of this town, was born 
in Le Ray, April 24, 1845, and November 26, 1867, he married Eiiiora F., daughter of Edmund 
Seargent, of Orleans. 

Abram Weller was born in Rutland in 1815. He married Martha A. Stores, of Escott, 
Canada, and they had eight children, five of whom survive, namely : Amos, Thursa A.. Wilson 
W., Maryette, and George W. The latter married Margaret Shepard, of Alexandria Bay, and 
they have two children, Mary M. and Walter. William Wellei-, son of Abram, died December 
22, 1888. Charles F.,soa of William, was born in Alexandria Bay, April 10, 1861. He attended 
the common schools until 18 years of age, and on the 20th of December, 1882, when 21 years 
of age, married Elizabeth Gorman, of New Boyne, Canada, by whom he has two sons, Lewis 
A. and Harold Bootli. Abram Weller resides on Bethune street. 

Henry Knell was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, October 21, 1845. January 8, 1866, 
he immigrated to the United States and fiist located in the town of Theiesa. In 1868 he re- 
moved to Watertown. May 9, 1870, he married Rosan Graham, of Cape Vincent, and they have 
had eight children, seven of whom survive, namely: Hattie J., William H., Dorcas, Mary, 
Rhoda, Bessie, and Minnie. He resides on Church street, Alexandria Bay. 

Calviu Heath, a native of Vermont, removed to Georgeville, Canada, where he married 
Catherine Reddicar, by whom he had 13 children, six of whom died in infancy and seven sur- 
vive, namely: Martha, Ellen, Elizabeth, Climena, Carrie, Lester, and Charles. Cliarles Heath 
was born June 5, 1841, aud in 1851 came to the United States. In 1861 he enlisted in the late 
war. June 15, 1864, he married Olive Demora, of Alexandria, and they have had five children, 
of whom four sons survive, namely: Abnir L., Horatio, De Elton, and Charles. A daughter, 
Martha V., died at the age of 19 years. 

George W. Willix was born in Alexandria, April 27, 1852. At the age of 22 years he mar- 
ried Matilda P., daughter of Isaac and Cynthia Griffin, of Cri'sby, Canada, and they have one 
son and two daughters, namely: Cora M., born August 9, 1875; Lillie M., born March 9, 1879: 
and Gordon W., b irn June 30, 1884. Mr. Willix resides on Anthony street, Alexandria Buy. 

Peter Van Allen was born in Herkimer County, N. Y., where he married Olive Forbes, by 
whom he hal 11 children, six of whom survive, viz.: Jacob, James, Abraham, Benjamin, Eliza, 
and Lucinda. Mr. Van Allen was one of the ^Dioneer settlers of the town of Orleans. Benjamin 
Tan Allen, son of Peter, was educated in the common schools of his native town. He married, 
August 18, 1841, Mary A. Anthony, of Lyme, who bore him eight children, four of whom are 
living, namiily: Cynthia A., Margaret, Jason, and Lovina. Mr.s. Van Allen died in 1866. 
April 19, 1868, he marrie I for his second wife Eilen Brovvn, of Alexandria, and they have three 
children, namely: Ada M., Mary E., and Peter. Mary E. married William F. Duffney, April 
30, 1888. 

Henry Yerden was born in the Mohawk valley, whence he removed to Fowler, St. Law- 
rence County. He married Polly Klauss, and they had 10 children, four of whom survive, 
namf^ly: Miria, Rsbecca, William H., and Alexander D. The latter was born in the town of 
Fowler, October 30, 1839. Februaiy 19, 1866, be married Fidelia, daughter of Thomas Hazel- 
ton, of Hammond, N. Y., who was born March 13, 1850. They have had three sons and three 
daughters, namely: Carrie A., who was born November 12, 1867; Charles D., who was born 
February 23, 1871; Mary M., who was bom September 29, 1873; William H., who was born 
Mirch 30. 1876; Martha E., who was boin September 24, 1878; and Thomas E., who was born 
May 15, 1881. In 1885 Mr. Yerden removed with his family to this county, and now resides in 
Alexandria Bay. He served nearly three years in the late war, was in 15 general engagements, 
and was wounded at the battle of Cold Harbor, June 4, 1864. 



TOWN OF ANTWERP. 



259 



Delos Van Scoy was born in Penn Yan, N. Y., in 1823. When 19 years of age he married 
Mary A. Blann. of Ira, N. Y., who bore him eight children, six of wliom died in infancy and 
two survive, viz.: Simeon A. and Corneiiiis F. In 1882 Cornelius F. Van Scoy located in the 
town of Oilcans, and iii 1887 he removed to Alexandria. July 3, 1879, he mariied Hattie L. 
Page, of Cape Vincent, and they have two sons and one daughter, Charles R., Mary L. and 
Delos A. 

Alansou Cole was born in West Theresa, May 1, 1822. His sister Fanny was the first 
female child born in the town of Theresa. Mr. Cole was educated in the common schools and 
Ijecame an enterprising farmer. He is now retired and resides in Theresa village. About 
1845 he married Lucy Makepeace, of Alexendria, by whom he had 11 children, — seven sons and 
four daughters, — eight of whom survive, namely: Martin V. B., June, Fanny, Lydia, Julia, 
John D., Philista, and Ida A. Dr. John D. Cole was boin in Theresa, March 28, 1857. He 
was educated in the graded schools and when 21 years of age began the study of medicine in 
the office of Dr. Santaway. He attended the Hahneniiinn Medical College, of Chicago, two 
terms, from which he graduated in February, 1882. In March of the same year he located in 
the village of Clayton, and in 1884 removed to Alexandria Bay. May 13, 1885, he mariied 
Adda E. Garrison, of Napanee, Ontario, and they have a daughter, Lottie Grace, who was 
born May 20, 1886. In 1887 Dr. Cole erected a fine residence on Church street, in Alexandria 
Bay, where he now resides. 



ANTY/ERP. 



ANTWERP lies in the northeastern part of the county, in the form of a 
parallelogram, of which the longer lines run about northwest and 
southeast. It is bounded on the northeast by St. Lawrence County, 
on the southeast by Lewis County, on the southwest by VVilna, Philadelphia, 
and Theresa, and on the northwest by Theresa. The surface of the town, 
which cannot properly be termed hilly, is yet rolling and uneven, and in many 
parts rough, broken, and seamed by rocky ridges; notwithstanding which 
blemish the soil is strong and productive. 

Its principal stream is Indian River, which enters from VVilna, and. after 
making a bold sweep towards the northeast, and passing through the princi- 
pal village, fljws back across the southwest line into Philadelphia. There is 
also the Oswegatchie River, which enters the town from the northeast, and, 
making a short and abrupt bend, known as the " Ox Bow," passing the village 
of the same name, turns sharply back into St. Lawrence County, after having 
received Antwerp's tribute, a small stream flowing out from her three lakes, 
which are Sherman's, Vrooman's, and Moon — 'the last named lying on the 
northwestern boundary, and partly in Theresa. 

This town was formed from Le Ray, with its present limits, April 5, 1810. 
A part of Lewis County was annexed to Jefferson by the same act. Its name 
was given in honor of the Antwerp Company, who owned large tracts of land 
in this and in the neighboring townships, and whose seat was in Antwerp, Bel- 
gium. 



26o TOWN OF ANTWERP. 



The organization went into effect January i, 1811, and the first annual 
meeting of the new town was held on the 5th of the following March, " at 
the house of Francis McAUaster, occupied by William Fletcher, inn-keeper 
in said Town." Daniel Sterling was chosen moderator, and the following 
persons were elected to the town offices: Daniel Heald, supervisor; Samuel 
Randall, clerk ; John Jennison, Zopher Holden, and Silas Ward, assessors ; 
Francis McAUaster, Oliver Stowell, and Elkanah Pattridge, commissioners of 
highways; WiUiam Fletcher and John C. Foster, overseers of the poor; 
Daniel Sterling, Jeduthan Kingsbury, Salmon White, Matthew Brooks, and 
Samuel Hendrix, overseers of highways ; Elkanah Pattridge, constable and 
collector. 

In 1880 Antwerp had a population of 3,414- The town is located in the 
second school district of Jefferson County, and in 1888 had 25 school dis- 
tricts, three of which were joint, in which 27 teachers were employed 28 
weeks or more. There were 530 scholars attending school, and the aggre- 
gate days attendance during the year was 57,902. The total value of school 
buildings and sites was $9,500, while the assessed valuation of all the dis- 
tricts was $1,477,525. The whole amount raised for school purposes was 
$5,260.47, of which $2,374.59 was received by local tax. Truman C. Gray 
was school commissioner. 

Antwerp village is situated on Indian River at the point where it is 
crossed by the " old state road," and on the R., W. & O. Railroad, 24 miles 
northeast from the city of Watertown, and 12 miles southeast from the 
village of Gouverneur. The corporate limits, as recently surveyed and 
indicated by stone monuments, is a square of one mile. Its first building 
was a saw-mill built by General Lewis Robert Morris, in 1806, upon the site of 
the one now owned by A. H. Monro, which was erected by Ezra Church in 
1816. In the same year (1806) a small frame hotel (kept by Gershom Ma- 
toon) was erected on the site now occupied by the Proctor House, and the 
settlement thus begun became known as " Indian River." 

In J 808 the first physican ever located in the town made his appearance in 
the person of Dr. Samuel Randall, who erected himself a dwelling upon the 
site of the present Congregational Church, and the following year was ap- 
pointed postmaster and established the first postoffice in the town in a 
room of his house. 

In 1810 a grist-mill, with one run of stones, quarried from a neighboring 
ledge, was erected upon the site of the present structure by Ezra Church. 
This property was owned by David Parish until 1839, when it was sold to 
Isaiah Bailey. It was destroyed by fire in 1841 and rebuilt the following 
year. Is is now a prosperous fluuring-mill of a capacity of six sets of rolls, 
and is owned and managed by Morgan Augsbury and sons. 

In the year 181 2 Mr. Church built a clothing-mill near the site of the 
present J. G. Bethel planing-mill, and the same year Isaac L. Hitchcock- 
built a tannery on the lands now occupied by the store and office of the Jef- 



TOWN OP^ ANTWERP. 261 



ferson Iron Co. Both of these buildings long since disappeared, but the new 
cloth-mill building, built in 1828 by Thompson and Wait, still stands and is 
known locally as the " Red shop," the subject of a hot contest between the 
town and village several years ago, the question being " aye " or " nay" to an 
appropriation of several hundred dollars for the purpose of moving it out of 
the highway to its present location. The villagers carried the day. The 
pioneer merchants of the village were Zebulon H. Cooper, 18 lo; Dr. Ran- 
dall and Orin E. Bush, 1 8 1 2 ; the first distillers were Emmons & Bissell, 1820; 
and the first wagonmaker was Henry Welch about the same year. 

In 1 8 16 David Parish built a church and school-house for the benefit of 
the people at his own expense, with brick made near the spot, which struc- 
tures, as late as 1879, were still standing. In that year the school-house was 
torn down and the present wood structure erected in its place. The church 
was built with its front and rear walls on the line of the meridian, at a cost of 
$10,000, and for many years was free to all denominations, but finally fell 
into the hands of the Roman Catholics, who now own and occupy it. It 
was the second church edifice built in the county of Jefferson. The second 
hotel was built on the west side of Main street, and was first run by Reuben 
Nott. John P. Hind, of eccentric notoriety, was its second landlord, and 
John C. Foster its last. The building was destroyed by fire. The Foster 
House, now owned and conducted by Tilly M. Foster, was built and opened 
by Gen. T. R. Pratt, and the Proctor House, on the corner of Main and 
Van Buren streets, now conducted by H. W. and E. E. Proctor, was opened 
by Smith Copeland. He was succeeded by his son Clewley, and he by a 
line of proprietors, including such well-known names as African Gates, Martin 
Hamlin, Parwin Bates, John N. Green, E. L. Proctor, and Capt. J. B. 
Proctor. 

In 1853 the village was incorporated under the Revised Statute, by a vote 
of 53 to three, and a board of officers elected, consisting of five trustees and 
a clerk, as follows: clerk, Publius D. Foster; trustees, Jonas S. Conkey, 
Solomon J. Childs, Edward L. Proctor, William Carpenter, and George 
Brown. Mr. Conkey was chosen president of the board. The following 
year a bill drawn by Foster and passed by the legislature made the village a 
separate highway district, and somewhat modified the powers and duties of 
the trustees. March 7, 1871, H. W. Moore, G. N. Crosby, H. D. Hatha- 
way, and S. W. Somes being the trustees, and John F. Cook the clerk of 
the village, the people, by a vote of 94 to 22, adopted the general law of 
1870 as their charter, and this with its amendments is the present law of the 
village. The present board is made up as follows : Edward B. Perley, pres- 
ident; Charles W. Mofifett. George H. Lathan, and O. G. Devendorf, trus- 
tees. At the date of its first incorporation the village is said to have con- 
tained about 500 inhabitants; it now has i.ioo.* 

* February i, 1890, by a vote of gi to 15, the citizens of Antwerp village decided to 
adopt electric lights. 



262 TOWN OF ANTWERP. 



In 1854 the people, feeling deeply the necessity of enlarged educational 
facilities, an effort was commenced, the purpose of which was the founding of 
an institution of learning in the village, the result of which was the Antwerp 
Liberal Literary Institute. The buildings are two large imposing sandstone 
structures of similar architecture, four stories in height, standing at nearly 
right angles to each other, on an eminence overlooking the village. One of 
these is the boarding hall ; the other contains the chapel, laboratory, library, 
and class rooms, the buildings together having a capacity of about 200 board- 
ing pupils. 

From Spafford's Gazetteer of 18 12 we quote : — 

" This town was first settled about 1807 by people from the Eastern states. The post-road' 
from Utica to St. Lawrence [affording a weekly mail] lies through this town about nine or ten 
miles, along which are the settlements. A saw-mill, a grain-mill, and a ii^hisky-mill, or distil- 
lery, and one store mark the present extent of those improvements." 

From the same author, in 1820, we learn that the town contained 4,784 
acres of improved land, 1.456 cattle, 157 horses, 1,588 sheep; also one grist- 
mill, four saw-mills, one fulling-mill, one carding machine, iron works, one 
trip-hammer, one distillery, two asheries, and a scythe factory. There were 
12 school districts, at which school kept five months in the 12. The public 
money received was $47. 

Ox Bow (p. o.) village, near the northeast line of the town, is pleasantly 
situated on a remarkable bend of the Oswegatchie River, which gives name 
to the place. It contains two churches (Presbyterian and Methodist), one 
hotel, a sash and blind factory, wag )n shop, three blacksmith shops, one har- 
ness shop, five stores, and about 300 inhabitants. 

Gen. G. R. Morris, the first proprietor, sold a tract of about 18,000 acres 
of land, including the site of the village, to Silvius Hoard and others. About 
1817 Abraham Cooper, of Trenton, N. Y., purchased the tract which thence- 
forth took his name, and he may be properly called the founder of the village. 
In the spring of 1818 he moved here and established the first store in this 
part of the town, in the " old yellow store." Dr. Abner Benton, for many years 
a prominent citizen, was the first physician. He came in 18 18. In 18 19 
Abraham Cooper built the stone store, afterwards the Methodist Church. 
The public house at Ox Bow, a part of the present hotel, was built by Abra- 
ham Cooper in i8ig, and Solomon Loomis was the first landlord. The post- 
office at Ox B.jw was established in 181 9, and Dr. Abner Benton was the 
first postmaster. 

Pulpit rock, on the road from Ox Bow to Evans Mills, is an object of 
interest to all who pass that way. By a fracture in the ledge by the roadside 
a huge pot-hole is opened to view, which in its fancied resemblance to a 
pulpit has gained the name it bears, and it is said that a sermon was preached 
from it many years ago. 

Sterlingburg, a mile above Antwerp village, on the southerly bank of 
Indian River, is a hamlet now mainly the property of Alexander Copley. It 



TOWN OF ANTWKRP. 263 



was named from James Sterling, who was its proprietor for many years, and 
who formerly had located here one of his several furnaces for the manufacture 
of pig iron. At an early day a distillery was operated here by William Mc- 
Allaster, as agent for Mr Parish. A saw-mill and grist-mill, owned by Mr. 
Copley, are now the chief business interests. 

Spragueville (p. o.), St. Lawrence County, is a small village, the main 
street being on the county line. It is a station on the R., VV. & O. Railroad, 
and from here large quantities of iron ore have been shipped from the Keene 
ore beds, which are located just over the line, in St. Lawrence County. The 
business of the place is mostly in that county. 

Bentley's Corners, Steele's Corners, and Nauvoo are hamlets. 

Ives Seminary^ located in Antwerp village, is an outgrowth of two previ- 
ously-existing educational enterprises, — the Antwerp Liberal Literary Institute 
and the Gouverneur Wesleyan Seminary. The last named institution was 
incorporated April 5, 1828, and was successfully conducted as a grammar 
school until 1837, when it was placed under the patronage of the Black 
River Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and became their con- 
ference seminary, with Rev. Jesse T. Peck as principal. It remained under 
the patronage of this church until 1869, when, as the buildings and facilities 
had become inadequate to the needs of the institution, it was transferred to 
Antwerp. The Antwerp Liberal Literary Institute furnished the beginning 
of the educational facilities, buildings, etc., which are now in use by the Ives 
Seminary. The institute received a provisional charter in 1856, which was 
afterwards extended to February i, i860, and in 1861 it was made absolute. 
The erection of a stone building, three stories in height, 105 feet long and 
50 feet wide, was commenced during the summer of 1857, but was not 
finished until May 9, 1861, at which date it was dedicated. The value of 
buildings, grounds, library, and apparatus at that time was $13,000. Of this 
sum about $7,000 had been raised by subscription and $3,000 by bonding 
the town, having an indebtedness of $3,000, which amount was loaned to the 
institution by the state and subsequently made a free gift. The institute was 
opened May 20, 1861, withj. M. Manning and two assistants in charge. Dur- 
ing the following year three teachers were added and the number of students 
was about 120. In 1863 it was proposed to transfer the property to (he 
state for use as a Normal school, but this was not accomplished. In 1865 
an unsuccessful attempt was made to change the institute to a graded school. 
In 1868 a proposition was made to lease the property to the Protestant Epis- 
copal Society, but the parties interested could not agree on conditions. About 
this time the Black River Conference leased the buildings, and the legisla- 
ture changed the name of the institute to Black River Conference Seminary. 
In 1870 the erection of a boarding and ladies' hall, of stone, 72 by 43 feet and 
four stories high, was commenced. It was finished two years afterwards and 
cost $16,000. In 1873 it was resolved by the trustees to place the mstitu- 
tion forever beyond the possibility of failure by raising a fund of at least 



264 TOWN OF ANTWERP. 

$30,000. Hon. Willard Ives, of Watertown, immediately headed the subscrip- 
tion with $8,000, and two years later the conference had succeeded in rais- 
ing about $26,000. The entire wealth of the institution, including buildings, 
etc., is more than $50,000. April 21, 1874, the name was changed to " Ives 
Seminary," at the suggestion of Dr. E. O. Haven, and at about the same 
time an arrangement was made by which the seminary was adopted as Gym- 
nasium C of Syracuse University, students graduating from it being admit- 
ted there without re-examination. The school is in a prosperous condition, 
sustained by the following faculty : Rev. E. M. Wheeler, A. M., principal, 
mental, moral, and political science; Miss Alice Morris, preceptress, English 
literature, ancient and modern history, French, at^d German ; Miss Lydia F. 
Root, Latin and Greek ; Prof. C. H. Murray, natural science and mathemat- 
ics ; Prof. W. L. Wheeler, commercial and common English, normal course, 
higher English ; Miss Mina Monroe, music; Miss Florence Kinney, drawing 
and painting and elocution ; Miss Jennie Wait, preparatory. 

Iron Mitics. — In the town of Antwerp there is a range of ore deposits 
owned by the Jefferson Iron Company. They are, beginning at the southwest, 
Colbi/m, Ward, Dickson, White, and Old Sterling mines. The Dickson 
mine was first opened in 1858. It is 120 feet deep, and worked wholly as an 
underground mine. The geological relation of the ore is much the same as 
in the Old Sterling mine. The White mine is a small pit on the White farm, 
between the Dickson and Old Sterling. The Old Sterling mine is one mile 
northeast of the Dickson mine, and three miles from Antwerp. First opened 
by George Parish, in 1836, it has been in operation ever since. For years it 
was in the possession of the Sterling family, who used the ore in their furnace, 
and refused to sell any of it. In 1869 it became the property of the Jeffer- 
son Iron Company, which was organized in that year. The open pit at the 
northeast is 115 feet deep, and approximately 500 by 175 feet. The under- 
ground workings are south and southwest of it, and the ore has been followed 
for a distance of goo feet, and to a depth of 185 feet. This deposit lies be- 
tween the gneissic rocks on the southeast, 400 feet distant, and the sandstone 
(Potsdam) on the west side of the mine, but no walls have as yet been reached 
in the mine. A serpentine rock occurs with the ore, apparently without any 
order in its relations to it. The ore varies from a specular ore of metallic 
lustre and steel-gray shade of color to amorphous, compact masses of deep 
red. The crushed powder answers well as a paint, and stains deeply all with 
which it comes in contact. The chemical composition is shown by the follow- 
ing analysis : — 

Sesquioxide of iron 79-52 

Oxide of manganese 0.07 

Alumina 1.12 

Lime 2.49 

Magnesia 1.07 



TOWN OF ANTWERP. 265 



Phosphoric acid ... 0.263 

Sulphur 0.08 

Silica 9 80 

Water 0.68 

Metallic iron 55-66 

Phosphorus .... o- 1 1 5 

The ore stands up well, and, by leaving pillars, with arched roof in the gal- 
leries and drifts, no timbering is necessary. There is comparatively little 
water in the mine. The serpentine is not so firm as the ore, and is full of 
slickensides surfaces. Small mine cars are used on the narrow gauge tram- 
ways in the mine drifts. A skip track runs to the bottom of the open pit. 
A branch railroad three miles long connects this mine and the Dickson with 
the main line of the R., W. & O. Railroad near Antwerp, although in a due 
east course the latter is less than a mile away. 

The Dickson and Old Sterling ores are sold to furnaces on the Hudson 
River, and in eastern Pennsylvania, and some in Ohio. The ease with which 
the old Sterling ore is smelted, being almost self-fluxing, creates a demand for 
it in mixtures with other more refractory ores, and even where the freights 
make it expensive. Tha total output of these mines is estimated by Mr. 
E. B. Bulkley, president of the company, at 750,000 tons. 

C. IV. Hall Q^Co^s furniture manufactory, located on Indian River, at Ant- 
werp village, was established in 1870. It employs five men, and does a busi- 
ness amounting to about $5,000 per year. 

William Monro's saia-mill, on Indian River, at Antwerp village, employs 
two men, and cuts 5,000 feet of lumber per day. 

y. G. Bethel's sash, door, and blind factory, located on Indian River, at 
Antwerp village, was established by the present owner, who is also a contractor 
and builder. The factory furnishes employment for 20 men. 

Antwerp foundry was started by Joseph Newton, in 1857 or '58. About 
1873 it was purchased by D. & \V. Hogan, the present proprietors, who em- 
ploy two men in the manufacture of stoves, plows, etc., doing an annual busi- 
ness of $3,000. 

Antiverp roller flouring- mill, located on Indian River, at Antwerp village, 
was built in 1840, by I. Bailey. It has passed through several hands, and in 
1868 was purchased by Morgan Augsbury, who in 1884 changed it to the Hun- 
garian roller process. It is run by water-power, and its capacity is 80 barrels 
per day. 

The honor of having made the first settlement in the territory now com- 
prising the town of Antwerp lies between Captain William Lee and Peter 
Vrooman. It appears evident that both settled the same year, 1803, though 
both were then but squatters on land which they afterwards purchased. Lee 
located on the State road on lot 657, and Vrooman built his log house at 



266 TOWN OF ANTWERP. 



ihe great bend of the Oswegatchie, at a point near the lower end of the pres- 
ent village of Ox Bow. Both these settlers opened their log dwellings as 
public houses for the accommodation of the travelers and explorers who had 
already commenced to journey through that new country. Mention of both 
these establishments as early as 1804 is found in the diary of James Constable, 
who, during the summers of 1803. '04, '05, and '06, made extended tours 
through Jefferson and adjoining counties on business, as executor of the 
estate of his deceased brother William, who had been an extensive land- 
owner in this region. Under date of August 25, 1804, he says: — 

*' Pass on through No. 4 * * * 10 (ten) miles to the Long Falls (Carthage) where we break- 
fasted at a middling good tavern. * * * Proceed on 4 miles from the river to a log hnt, then 
6 miles to another, then 12 to a third, there being but three settlers on the Great Tract No. 4, 
unless there are some on Pennet's Square. * * * This tract belongs to, or is under the man- 
agement of, Mr. Le Ray and Mr. G. Morris, and nothing has yet been done towards settling it. 
The three people now on it have a verbal promise that they shall have the land at a fair price 
as first settlers, but they are veiy anxious in their enquiries after General Lewis R. Morris, 
who, it is understood, has undertaken the selling of 100,000 acres. * * * Sleep at Lee's tavern 
22 miles from the falls, with hard fare and poor lodgings." 

It is apparent from this that Mr. Constable's journey was northward from 
Carthage, through the present towns of Antwerp and Wilna, and that he 
found a cabm at the end of the first four miles, then another six miles fur- 
ther O'l, then nothing but wilderness for a distance of 12 miles, including the 
present site of the village of Antwerp, until he reached Captain Lee's log 
tavern, north of Antwerp village. He then proceeded, according to the con- 
tinuation of his diary, " five miles to the Ox Bow, a remarkable bend in the 
Oswegatchie River," where he breakfasted in a log hut (evidently Vrooman's), 
with another in sight. After a journey through St. Lawrence and Franklin 
counties he returned over the same route, and under date of September 9 
says: — 

" Set off from Lee's after breakfast and stop at Steam's, on No. IV., at twelve miles distance, 
then ten miles more to the Black River at Long Falls." 

In his tour of the next year (1805) he again traversed the same route, and 
thus recorded his journey from Carthage to the Ox Bow under date of 
August 16: — 

" Proceeded through'the Great Tract No. IV., and stopped at Steam's, ten miles, where we 
dined, and arrived at Lee's, twenty miles from the falls, where we passed the night, and, as 
the house was completely full, an uncomfortable one it was. I see no alteration in this part of 
the country since last year; the road at least as bad, and no more settlers. We were told General 
Lewis R. Morris has been through it, and has now gone to Vermont, intending shortly to 
return, perhaps with his family. He has quieted Lee and other squatters, who seem well satis- 
fied. He is expected to build at the Ox Bow." 

The next day (August 17) Mr. Constable left Lee's and journeyed to Ox 
Bow, " five miles of as bad road as we have yet traveled." 

In the spring of 1806 Silas Ward commenced the erection of a saw-mill at 
the present village for Mr. Morris, the proprietor of the town, which was the 
first improvement here, and the place acquired and long maintained the name 



TOWN OF ANTWERP. 267- 



of " Indian River." It being at the point where the State road crossed the 
river, and affording a good water-power, the place was naturally destined to 
become the center of business for the surrounding country. In the winter 
of 1805 a road was opened from Philadelphia to this place and Ox Bow, and 
the next year to Gouverneur, which began to settle at about this time. 
Gershom Matoon kept the first inn at the village. In January, 1807, John 
Jennison was appointed a local agent, under whose direction a grist-mill was 
built. The land books show the following names of settlers, with the dates 
of their purchase: 1805, William Lee. 1806, John Bethel, John Robinson, 
Peter Vrooman, Edward Foster, Jr., Mary Sterling, Benajah Randall, John 
Jennison, Peter Raven, Hopestill Foster, and John C. Foster. 1807, Zebulon 
Rockwell, Samuel Griswold, David Coffeen, Zopher Holden. 1808, Samuel 
Randall, Zebina Bishop, Mary Bishop, Alfred Walker, Daniel Gill, William 
Fletcher. 1809, Richard McAllaster, Dexter Gibbs, Sherebiah Gibbs, 
Jonathan Marbles, Isaac L. Hitchcock, Timothy Ruggles, Jesse Jackson, 
Danield Heald, John Pease. 1810, Amasa Sartwell, Almond Beecher, 
William Fletcher, Duthan Kingsbury, Harrison Moseley. 181 1, Oliver 
Howell, Lemuel Hubbard, Anson Cummings, John White, Levi Wheelock. 
181 2, William Harris, William McAllaster, Daniel Sterling, Salmon White, 
Warren Streeter, William Randall, Elkanah Pattridge, Ira Ward, Asher Sey- 
mour, Roswell Wilder, Benjamin Goodwin, Elliott Lynde, Daniel Gill, Caleb 
Cheney, Henry C. Baldwin, James Briggs, Silas Brooks, Shailer Beckwilh, 
Silas Ward, Ezra Church. In 1808 David Parish, an eminent banker of 
Hamburg, made extensive purchases in Northern New York, includmg 
29,033 acres in this town. 

Soon after this purchase great alarm was spread throughout the settlement 
by the misrepresentations of a vicious-minded person who had previously 
been employed as a land agent in St. Lawrence County. With no apparent 
motive but a morbid love of mischief, he visited some of the settlers and 
announced t/iat they had noiv changed masters, and would soon know what it 
was to be in the hands of a tyrant ; that their dues would be exacted 7vith 
vigor a.m\forth7vith, or they would be stripped of their property and turned 
off destitute from their homes. This announcement, coming from one of 
supposed knowledge of such affairs, created consternation throughout the 
settlement, and when they were shortly after visited by Mr. Joseph Rosseel, 
agent of the new purchaser, the excitement was intense. He soon succeeded 
in restoring confidence, which was firmly established on the arrival of Mr. 
Parish, wlio visited every family and assured them that they might depend 
upon any indulgence that might be reasonably asked. The sincerity of this 
promise they never had reason to distrust. 

In 1808 a party of militia under Captain Timothy Tamblin was stationed 
near the intersection of the two great roads leading into St. Lawrence County, 
a mile north of Antwerp village, to prevent smuggling under the embargo 
law. During the War of 181 2 a company of regular troops was stationed 



268 TOWN OF ANTWERP. 



near the same place, and also for the purpose of preventing smuggling into 
the country from Canada. Much ingenuity was exercised in evading the 
vigilance of sentinels, and sometimes with great success. 

At a special town meeting held July 2, 181 2, to take measures considered 
necessary in consequence of the war, it was " Resolved, That Samuel Ran- 
dall, town clerk, shall be made moderator. Resolved, That there be built 
a fort 36 by 20, the lower story, and upper 40 by 22, for the security of 
the inhabitants of said town. Resolved, That it be set north of Indian 
River 30 rods, in front of Sylvius Hoard's house." John Howe, Silas Ward, 
and Oliver Hoard were appointed a building committee; 50 cents were 
to be allowed for a day's work, to be paid by tax. July 17 another 
special meeting was held for the purpose of devising " a proper method 
for our defense, through a tragedy of war which is now beginning action be- 
tween the United States and Great Britain," and according to law notice 
was given to the inhabitants for the said meeting, to be held at the house 
of Francis McAllaster, inn-keeper. A similar series of resolutions were 
passed, with the additional clause requiring the laborers on the fort to work 
for 50 cents a day and board themselves. 

In the spring of 1867 a large part of the business portion of the village 
was destroyed by fire, a circumstance which resulted in greatly improving the 
appearance of the place, as the buildings, which had been only an inferior 
class of wood structures, were replaced with brick and stone blocks of good 
style. 

On February 3, 1889, the village was again visited by a disastrous confla- 
gration, which destroyed the business portion of the town, leaving only two 
buildings which could be used for offices and stores. About 1 1 o'clock 
Sunday night, the thermometer registering 22 degrees below zero, fire was 
discovered in the basement of Fred Spears's drug store, and before the 
flames could be got under control over $50,000 worth of property had been 
destroyed. The village had no facilities for fighting fire, as it owned neither 
engine nor hose. The tannery in the village was run by an engine which 
had a force pump attached. There was also about 200 feet of hose belong- 
ing to the tannery which could be used, and this was brought into play, but 
it was not sufficient to reach all the burning buildings. About two hours 
after the fire started word was telephoned to Watertown for help. An engine 
and hose-cart were loaded on a special train and immediately dispatched, 
arriving at the scene about 3:30 a. m. By the breaking of a cog-wheel the 
engine was rendered useless a few minutes after starting. The hose brought 
by the Watertown firemen proved to be a valuable acquisition, for by attach- 
ing it to the tannery pump the burning property was reached and several 
buildings saved that otherwise would have burned. When the fire was dis- 
covered in the basement of Spears's drug store it had made such progress 
that nothing could be done to save either the store or the Antwerp bank. 
From these two buildings the flames communicated to Fuller's restaurant, 



TOWN OF ANTWERP. 269 



E. B. Perley's drug store, and Miss A. Beaman'sdry and fancy goods store in 
quick succession. As the fire devoured the latter place the wind changed 
and drove the flames back along their course, which had so far been through 
wooden structures, to the brick block in which John Burtis kept a restaurant, 
William Bentley's dry goods store followed ; then J. Winkler's boot and 
shoe store, the Antwerp Gazette office, W. S. Smith's grocery, and C. B. 
Hall's undertaking rooms. 

Over the stores were the offices of Dr. Abell, Dr. Wood, George H. Lathan, 
dentist, and that of Attorney J. C. Trolan. Mr. Burtis made his home over 
the restaurant, and Mrs. Johnson had a dressmaking establishment on the 
second floor. The office of Dr. W. L. Hartman was situated in the block. 
John C. Trolan 's valuable law library was completely destroyed, and the 
medical works, comprising libraries of the physicians who were located in 
the building, were burned. The Masonic hall, W. R. Smith's block and 
stock of groceries, Miss Pauline Mcintosh's stock of millinery, Hall Broth- 
ers' stock of furniture, and the goods in the store of the Jefi"erson Iron Com- 
pany were more or less damaged by water and smoke and haste in removal. 
The total insurance on the property destroyed was about $31,500. The 
young lady who telephoned the Watertown office for help stuck to the tele- 
phone until her face was scorched by the heat, but she got her message 
through and received an answer before she left her post. 

At this writing (October, 1889) these buildings are all replaced with nearly 
completed and much better stone and brick buildings than those destroyed. 
In addition to those there is also in process of construction a brick block 
93 by 65 feet. It is located on the corner of Main and Van Buren streets, 
and contains four stores and a large public hall. It is the property of Fred 
Y. Spears, Charles L. Dillenbeck, George and Daniel Alton, and William T. 
Bentley, and is known as the Opera House block.* The new block by E, B. 
Perley and Cassius Marsh is of brick, ornamented with Gouverneur marble 
and Potsdam sandstone. It is in three stories, and will contain the Perley 
drug store and the Marsh shoe store, the Odd Fellows hall, the office of Dr. 
I. H. Abell, and the dental office of G. H. Lathan. 

In 1880 the board of town officers, then consisting of H. H. Bent, super- 
visor ; John F. Cook, William N. Johnson, M. M. Gillett, and Daniel W. 
Sprague, justices of the peace ; and James W. Van Slyke, town clerk, de 
cided to build a stone bridge across Indian River on Main street, and 
appropriated $6,000 for that purpose. The bridge was built by Howard 
Sterling, who was then highway commissioner of the town of Antwerp. It is 
a massive double arch of heavy blocks of limestone laid in Rosendale cement. 

Martin L. Willard, the postmaster at Antwerp, possesses an interesting old 
document. It is the commission of an ancestor as captain in the colonial 
troops of King George II., and is highly prized by the family. It reads: — 

* On February 14, 1890, this opera house was formally opened by a grand ball. 



.270 TOWN OF ANTWERP. 



Pkovince of the I WILLIAM SHIRLEY Efq. Captain-General and GOVEENOUR in 
Massachusetts-Bay, \ Chief, in and over His Majesty's Province of the Maffachufetta-Bay in 
Neio England, &c. 
To Joseph Willard, Gent., Greeting. 

BY virtue of the Power and Aufchoi-ity, in and by His Majefty's Royal Commiffion to me 
granted, to be Captain-General. &c. over this His Majefty's Province of the Mnffachufetts 
Bay, aforefaid; I do (by thefe Prefents) repofing efpecial Truft and Confidence in your 
Loyalty, Courage and good Conduct, conftitute and appoint You the faid Joseph Willard to be 
Captain of the Foot Company in Grafton in the Tiiird Regiment of Militia in the County of 
Worcefter and Middlefex, whereof Nahum Ward, Efq., is Colonel. 

You are therefore carefully and diligently to dif charge the Duty of a Captain in leading, 
ordering and exercifing faid Company in Arms, both inferiour Officers and Soldiers, and to 
keep them in good Order and Discipline; hereby commanding them to obey you as their Cap- 
tain and your felf to oljferve and follow such Orders and Inftructions, as you fhall from time 
to time receive fi'om Me, or the Commander in Chief for the Time being, or other your fupe- 
rior Officers for His Majefty's Service, according to military Rules and Difcipline, purfiiant to 
the Truft repofed in you. 

Given under My Hand & Seal at Arms, at Grafton, the Thirteenth Lay of September, 
In the Seventeenth Year of the Reign of His Majefty King Geokge the Second, 
Annoq; Domini, 1742. 
By His Excellency's 

Command, W. Shirley. 

G. Willard, Sec'y. 

Major Simon Willard was born in the parish of Horsmonden, Kent, Eng- 
land, in 1605. He embarked from England in April, 1634, and arrived in 
Boston about the middle of the month, or May. He first established himself 
in Cambridge, Mass , where were born eight daughters and nine sons. Capt. 
Benjamin Willard, the eighth son of Major Simon, was the ancestor of Post- 
master Willard, whose granddaughter is in the tenth generation in direct 
descent of the family in the United States. The record is as follows : Maj. 
Simon Wdlard, born in England, 1605 ; Capt. Benjamin Willard, born in 
Lancaster, Mass., 1665 ; Maj. Joseph Willard, born in Sudbury, Mass., 
1693; Lieut. Isaac Willard, born in Grafton, Mass., 1716; Solomon Willard, 
born in Worcester, Mass., 1750; Solomon Willard, born in Sterling, Mass., 
1784; Otis Willard, born in Rutland, N. Y., 1807 ; Martin L. Willard, born 
in Antwerp in 1843 ; Charles O. Willard, born in Rives, Mich., 1869; infant 
daughter of Charles O. Willard, born in Antwerp, March 15, 1889. 

CHURCHES. 

Sf. PauVs Church (Protestant Episcopal), located on Mechanic street, in 
Antwerp village, was organized in 1866, by Rev. J. \\ inslow, who was the 
first rector. Their house uf worship, the present wooden structure, was 
built in 1871-72, at a cost of $5,500, will comfortably seat 200 persons, and 
is valued, including grounds and other church property, at $6,800. The 
church now has 35 communicants, and at this writing (February, 1890) is 
without a rect T, the Rev. William Bours Clark, until recently in charge, 
having resigned to accept a call to Cortland, N. Y. The Sunday-school has 
a membership of 45 scholars and six teachers. 



TOWN OF ANTWERP. 27 1 



The Congregational Chwch of Antwerp^ located in Antwerp village, was 
organized in 1819, by Rev. Isaac Clinton, then principal of the academy at 
Lowville. The first house of worship was built of wood in 1833. The pres- 
ent structure, which is one of the finest church buildings in this section of 
the state, was built of stone in 1876, at a cost of $20,000. It will comfort- 
ably seat 400 persons, and is now valued, includmg grounds and other prop- 
erty, at $21,000. The present number of members is 188, under the pas- 
toral charge of Rev. C. M. Westlake. The Sunday school has a member- 
ship of 120, and an average attendance of 90 scholars and teachers. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church, located in Antwerp village, was organ- 
ized in July, 1863, by Rev. Darius Simons, the first pastor, with about 20 
members. The first house of worship, a brick structure, was dedicated Feb- 
ruary I, 1872, and was destroyed by fire January 5, 1877. The present 
building, also of brick, was dedicated December 4, 1877. It has a seating 
capacity for 375 persons, cost $12,000, and is now valued, including grounds, 
at $8,000. The present membership is 100, and Rev. Charles W. Brooks is 
their pastor. The Sunday-school has a membership of about 100. 

The Ox Boiv Presbyterian Church, located at Ox Bow village, was organ- 
ized May 15, 1820, wuh Abraham Cooper, Abraham Lewis, Reuben Streeter, 
James Ormiston, James Douglass, Oren Matthews, Percival Hawley, and 
Abner Benton, trustees. At its organization it had about 40 members, and 
Rev. James Sanford was installed pistor September 5, 1820. The people 
worshiped in a brick school-house, on the lot where the present church now 
stands, until 1839, when the present building was erected, of stone, 40 by 50 
feet, and originally cost about $2,200. In 1861 it was enlarged and remod- 
elled, 25 feet being added to the length, the whole costing about $3,000. It 
has a seating capacity of about 400, and is valued, including grounds and 
other property, at about $5,000. The church is now without a pastor, and 
the present membership is 124. 

The First Methodist Episcopal Church of Ox Bow was organized in 1S72, 
by Rev. Samuel Clark, the first pastor, with 12 members. The house of 
worship was formerly an old store, and was remodelled into a church in 1873. 
It is of stone, will comfortably seat 200 persons, and cost $4,100. Tlie pres- 
ent value of the church property, including buildings and grounds, is $6,000. 
The church now has 60 members, and Rev. W. Merrifield is pastor. 

The Rotnan Catholic Church. — The Roman Catholic form of worship was 
commenced in Antwerp in March, 1849, at which time that denomination 
purchased of Mr. Parish the brick church which he had built in 1816 for 
the use of the town. The building, which had cost nearly $i 0,000, was sold 
to them for $600. 

A Baptist Society was organized in Antwerp in 1824, and continued to 
worship here until 1865. Their house of worship was afterwards occupied 
by the Methodist Protestant Society of Antwerp. 



272 TOWN OF ANTWERP. 



WILLIAM MCALLASTER. 

William McAllaster was bom in Antrim, N. H., March 6, 1792. His 
father, Richard McAllaster, was an Irishman; his mother, Susan, Scotch. 
They were highly respected in the community, and until William was 13 
years of age in easy circumstances. Then misfortune came and swept away 
the results of years of industry and frugality. The times were hard and the 
exigencies of the case demanded vigorous action on the part of Richard, and 
one of the measures he took to relieve himself and family from the pressure 
of want was to bind William under the apprentice laws, then existing in that 
state, to a neighboring farmer for a term of years. At the age of 18, finding 
himself at liberty and on the world, with only a small amount of money in 
his pocket, William packed his scanty wardrobe in a bundle, and taking it 
upon his back set out upon a long march through the wilderness, hardly 
knowing whither he was going, but carrying in his breast a stout heart and 
in his vigorous frame the health and strength requisite to a successful encoun- 
ter with fate however obstinate she might prove. Of the length of time con- 
sumed or the hardships and privations endured upon this journey we can say 
nothing ; but we know that upon reaching Antwerp he found little or nothing to 
do, and so continued his journey to Ogdensburg. Here he obtained employ- 
ment of Mr. Ford, the builder of the State road, one season. Returning to 
New Hampshire he came again to Antwerp, bringing with him his parents and 
one brother and five sisters. The journey was performed with a yoke of cattle 
and a two-wheeled cart. On arriving at Antwerp village Richard immediately 
set about the erection of a house on a site now within the limits of Hoyt street, 
just in the rear of the new Congregational Church. Richard and Susan died 
in 1813, their graves being among the first dug in the old burying-ground on 
the hill. In the meantime William was laboring hard at small wages on the 
turnpike, which was then being built from Antwerp village to the Ox Bow, 
Subsequently he was elected constable and collector. As collector he com- 
pelled Parish to pay his taxes in Antvrerp instead of Albany, somewhat against 
the gentleman's inclination, but William's energy and promptness in the mat- 
ter pleased the wealthy land-owner and he subsequently made the young man 
his agent. In 1828 he married Nancy Stowell, a lady who came to Antwerp 
in 1809 from New Hampshire, and who was born January 6, 1804. Of this 
marriage were born four children, WiUiam P., George D., Oliver R., and 
Major. Of these only George D. is now living. Major died while young, 
and William P. and Oliver while engaged in the service of the United States 
in the war of 1861-65. The Grand Army Post at Antwerp bears the name of 
Oliver. Hon. George D. McAllaster has served one term in the legislature,, 
and has been several times supervisor of his town. 

WiUiam McAllaster continued as Parish's agent until his land was all sold' 
and he ceased to do business in the town. For many years he managed the 
whole of that gentleman's business in this section with satisfaction to his em- 




/^y-^ ..y^y/tiZc^i 



I 



i 



TOWN OF ANTWERP. 



273 



ployer. In 1828 he purchased 550 acres of Parish, and this he kept until 
his death. He was elected to the Assembly in 1840, and for one year was 
supervisor of his town. During the latter part of his life he dealt in real 
estate and personal property. He died May 5, 1870. 

FAMILY SKETCHES. 

John E. Stcrliiig, son of Daniel, was born in Connecticut, May 20, 1802, and when five 
years of age came witli his parents to Antwerp and located at Sterling Corners, corner of roads 
31 and 41. The land npon which Daniel Steiiing settled has ever since been owned by some 
member of the family. John R. Sterling married Roxana S., daughter of Ezra Church, Janu- 
ary 27, 1828, and they had children as follows: Howard, Bradford, James L., Jennie S., Ella 
T , and Julia A. Bradfoid Sterling is a farmer, owns the old homestead, and is as happy 
as a bachelor can be. Frances E. died at the age of nine years. Mr. Sterling died May 2, 
1867. His wife survives at the age of 79 years and resides with her son Bradford. Jennie S. 
and Ella T. also reside on the homestead. This family are descendants of Governor Bradford 
of colonial fame. 

Watson T. Seaver was born in Moretown, Vt., in 1802, and in 1818 came with his parents 
to Antwerp. December 26, 1822, he married Almira, daughter of Thomas Wait, formerly of 
Waitsfield, Vt., and they have had seven children, four of whom survive, namely: Luana, 
Freeman W., John W., and Maria N. Luana married, lirst, Seott S. Clark, by whom she had 
a daughter, and second, John M. Eggleston, by whom she had a son, Richmond H. Almira 
Seaver, widow of Watson T., is living with her son John W., aged 83 years. Maria N. married 
Victor Kitts. Lovina A. Keith has lived with her grandmother, Mrs. W. T. Seaver, since she 
was foiir years of age. 

Oliver Webster, a native of Vermont, married Sally, daughter of Abel and Lovis Phelps, 
and aUout 1812 they came by wagon to the town of Pinclaiej', Lewis County. They were on 
the road 17 days, and it rained every day of their journey but two. A part of the way they 
followed the ai-my on its m irch to Sackets Harbor. Tliey remained in Lewis County live or 
six years, when they settled in Antwerp and took up 170 acres in the northern part of the 
town, and built a log house. Mr. Webster died hei-e in 1822, aged 43 years, leaving a widow 
and six children. Their daughter Polly died a few days after her father. Sally married Na- 
thaniel Redfield and resides in Lisbon, 111. Gardner occupied the homestead with his mother 
until a few years before his death. He married Miranda Wood, by whom he had eight chil- 
dren, five of whom re^ide in this town. He died in Ox Bow village. Eli married Ann Barstow 
and removed to Illinois. He is now living with his second wife in Eagle Grove, Iowa, and has 
three childien. Lois married Dan Forward, of Le Ray, and they had two children, Byron 
and Euiiitia. Lucy, born December 27. 1821, married Charles, son of Philemon and Lovina 
(Hunt) Wicks, who was born December 27, 1821. March 9, 1846, Mr. and Mrs. Wicks located 
on the old homestead where his grandfather, Benjamin, and father were the first settleis. He 
died in Champion village, August 4. 1865, leaving two daughters, viz.: Emma L. (Jlrs. Amos 
J. Colvin) and A<Ia D. (Mrs. W. V. Graves), both of Champion. For her second husband 
Mrs. Wicks married Nelson Brooks, April 22, 1869, who died January 18, 1875. His widow 
now lives in Champion village. Sally Webster, widow of Oliver, died June 1, 1871, aged 91 
years. 

Joseph and Isaac Hinsdale, brothers, came from England to America as early as 1724. 
Ira Hinsdale, a descendant of one of the brothers, and grandfather of Ira C, was born in 
Pompey, M. Y. George, son of Ira, and father of Tra C, was born in Antwerp, November 11, 
1819. He married Harriet A. Hamhn. of Ox Bow village, and they had three children, namely: 
Ira C, Florence L., and George J. Ira C. was born in Antwerp, Decembi r 26, 1844. When 
be was 13 years of age his father died, and his early life was occupied with w.uk upon the 
farm summers and attendance at the district scliool winters. September 4, 1862, he enlisted 
in the Union army and was discharged as second lieutenant at the close of the war. February 
15, 1870, he married Margaret F. Seymour, of Antwerp, and they have a con, Roy S. Mr. 
Hinsdale is a successful general merchant at Antwerp village. He was formerly located at 
Ox Bow. His sister Florence H. married Alexander B. Clark, of Ox Bow village. 
18* 



2 74 TOWN OF ANTWERP. 



Elliott Lynde, grandfather of Arthur L., was born October 28, 1772. Lincoln D., son of 
Elliott, was born in Antwerp, July 14. 1819. He married, first, in 1864, Lydia Marsh, of this 
town, and they had two sons and two daughters, namely: Alice, Ella E. and Eugene A. 
(twins), and Arthur L. For his second wife he married, in 1876, Esther T., widow of Thomas- 
Arlow. He died June 20, 1887. Arthur L. Lynde was born April 14, 1863. He received a 
liberal education and was a student in the agricultural department of Cornell University for 
two years and a half. April 13, 1885, he married Ardell E., eldest daughter of Abram G. 
Schemerhorn, of West Union, Iowa, and they have had two sons, Harold Adolphus and Harry 
E. D. The former was born June 14, 1887, and died September 30, 1888. Harry E. D. was 
born February 4, 1889. 

Benjamin Payne was born in Cranston, R. I., in 1791, and in 1800 his parents removed to 
Herkimer County. April 12, 1816, he married Patty Dickson, of Fairfield, N. Y., and soon 
after removed to Grouverneur, St. Lawrence County. They had seven children, namely: Eos- 
seel, Sally, Edwin, Angeline, Mary, Amy, and Jane. Rosseel Payne was born January 20, 
1817, and was educated in the common schools. December 28, 1843, he married Cynthia Gil- 
lett, of Antwerp, and they have had three children, namely: Charles E., who married Mon- 
telia Hunt, of Theresa; Addison L., who married Alice Henderson, of Gouverneur; and Byron 
E., who died April 15, 1886. 

Alonzo H. Taylor was born ijear Hartford, Conn., January 2, 1816, and came with his 
parents to this town, locating at Ox Bow, when four years old. In 1855 he married Maiy A. 
Laidlow, of this town, and they had five children, namely: Nancy B., Andrew S., David J., 
Elizabeth A., and Jane. David J. received a common school education and is now engaged iu 
farming. December 3, 1885, he married Lizzie M., daughter of George P. Coolidge, of Ant- 
werp, and they have two children, Mable E. and Florence M. 

James Whitmore was born in Connecticut, April 6, 1795, and when two years of age his 
parents removed to Windsor, Vt. He located in Antwerp when about 25 years of age. October 
22, 1829, he married Thankful Gates, of this town, and they had three children, namely: 
James D., Mercy A., and Thankful R. James D. Whitmore was born October 1, 1830. March. 
22, 1855, he married Helen M. Wait, a native of Vermont, then residing in AntweriJ, and they 
have had six children, four of whom survive, namely: Julia, Roque, Arthur J., and Hattie. 

Eoswell Gleason was born in Antwerp in 1831. He married, first, Berthena Lewis, of this 
town, and they had four children, of wiiom Wallace E. and Chai-les W. survive. His second 
wife. Sarah Fleming, of St. Lawrence County, bore him five children. Charles W. Gleason 
was born in Theiesa, April 5, 1863. November 9, 1887, he married Nettie, daughter of the 
late Marcus M. Gillett by his second wife, and they have a son, Claude, and reside on Park 
street, in Ox Bow village. 

Marcus M. Gillett was born in Halifax, Vt., in 1816, and in 1820 he removed with his 
parents to this town and located near the Ox Bow. He married, first, Eliza Colony, of Ox Bow 
village, by whom he had two children, Frank W. and Maria. His second wife, Ohve, a sister 
of his first wife, bore him one daughter, Nettie. Frank W. Gillett, the subject of this sketch, 
was born May 13. 1845. He attended the public schools until he attained the age of 17 years, 
when he enlisted and served in the civil war. January 20, 1868, he married Sarah E., young- 
est daughter of Samuel liidsdale, and they have three children, namely: William M., Sarah E., 
and Ida C. Mr. Gillett's father was a justice of the peace 28 years, His grandfather, Lucius, 
served in the War of 1812. 

Samuel B. Hopper was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. Alonzo B., his son, was born 
in Watertown, August 13, 1822. He was married twice, first to Sally, daughter of Peter C. 
Miller, of Herkimer County, who bore him three children, namely: Edgar A., Eugene L., and 
Cornelia A. Eugene L. HojDper was born January 30, 1854. He was educated in the common 
schools and Ives Seminary. September 18, 1879, he married Letta. second daughter of Edward 
Westwood, of Wegatchie, and they have three children, — two sons'and a daughter, — namely: 
Perley A., Harley E., and Adell. 

Ansel Clark, Sr., was born in Rutland, Vt., January 13, 1800, and when quite young came 
with his father to Rutland, N. Y., where he married Ella Pierce, by whom he had seven sons, 
six of whom survive, namely: Ansel, Preserved, Clement, Lansing, Almtr, and VYilber. Ansel 
Clark, Jr., was born in Rutland, January 14, 1822, and when six weeks old came with his 
father to Antwerp. September 5, 1842, he married Hannah Otis, of Antwerp, and they have 



TOWN OF ANTWERP. 275 



had live children, two of -whom, Linda A. and Jerome, 2d, are living. The latter married 
Cora I., daughter of Amos Fuller, of Onondaga County, and they have two children, Lindoii 
Logan and Edith May. 

Nathan Lamb was born in Massachusetts, January 18, 1816, and when 12 years of age 
came with his parents to Antwerp. He was married three times, first to Patty Ann Cleghorn, 
of St. Lawrence County, by whom he had five cliildren, viz.: Jarvis C, Celia, Aveline, Lionel, 
and Gilbert. His second wife was Eliza, widow of Thomas Kattigan, and his third wife was 
Abigail Jones, of Gouverneur. Jarvis G. Lamb was born February 5, 1857, and was educated 
in the public schools. February 15, 1882, he married Mary Davis, of Fowler, St. Lawrence 
County, and they have a son, Morrison L.. and reside in this town near the village of Sprague- 
ville. 

Samuel Kidsdale, a native of Yorkshire, Eng., married Sarah Spirit, and in the spring of 
1833 they came to this country and located in Ogdensburg, N. Y. They had six children, 
namely: Mary A., George, James, William, Samuel, and Sarah E. William Kidsdale was born 
in Oswegatchie, N. Y., October 26, 1841. He attended the public schools until 15 years of age, 
and then learned the car]3enters' trade. October 26, 1871, he married Jane, eldest daughter of 
William Camedge, of Sterling Bush. N. Y., and they have five children, namely: Elizabeth J., 
William W., Mary A., Frances F., and George G. 

James Eidsdale was born in St. Lawrence County. He married Sarah J. Aminary, of 
Maitland, Canada, and they have had two children, Berdie A. and Bertha A., both of whom 
are deceased. George Eidsdale was also born in St. Lawrence County. He married Angeline 
Corbett, of Antwerp, and they have live children, namely: George, Jr., Charle.s, Albert, 
Cassius, and Anna. April 5, 1885, George, Jr., married Anna M. Gettenby, and thej' have a 
son, Clinton T. 

John Rogers came to Antwerp from Hebron, Washington County, in May, 1828, locating 
ixpon the farm now owned by his son, A. P. Eogers, where he resided until his death, October 
10. 1870, aged 77 years. He married Mary Eggleston, of Hebron, and their children were 
L. S., Mary J. (Mrs. Dr. E. G. Derby), Emily (Mrs. P. W. Davenport), D. J., and A. P. Mrs. 
Rogers died in 1853, aged 62 years. L. S. Rogers was born September 16, 1819. September 
29, 1846, he married Permelia M., daughter of Darius Burtch, of Antwerp, and they have had 
five children, viz.: Emogene P. (Mrs. E. P. Perley); Maryette T., who died in 1865; Allen L., 
of Pamelia; Wm. J., of this town; and George P., a druggist in Hermon, St. Lawrence County. 
After his marriage Mr. Rogers settled on the farm now occupied by his son William J. In 1876 
he removed to Antwerp village, where he now resides, and has served as assessor 12 years. 
In politics he aftiliates with the Republican party. William J. Rogers was educated in the 
common schools and Ives Seminary. September 4, 1883, he married Maud L., daughter of 
Hiram Mix, of St. Lawi-ence County, and they have had three children, two of whom survive, 
namely: Maud E. and Helen M. Blr. Rogers is a fa-rmer and resides in this town. 

Asa L. Eggleston was born in Champion, September 7, 1823, and at the age of three years 
removed with his parents to Antwerp. December 26, 1844, he married Grace, second daughter 
of John Robinson, of this town, and they had six children, two of whom. Albert E. and Eva 
G., survive. Asa L. Eggleston, Jr., served in the late war and died at Warrington Junction, 
Va. The family reside in this town near the Ox Bow. 

Ira Beaman was born in Westminster, Mass., June 27, 1800. May 17, 1831, he married Ke- 
ziah Coburn, of Hollis, N. H., and in 1832 came to Antwerp. They had three sons and one 
daughter, namely : Francis, Joseph M., Ezra S., and Mary E. Ezra S. Beaman was born Feb- 
ruary 23, 1845. He received an academic education and is a graduate of the Poughkeepsie 
Commercial College. He married, first, December 30, 1867, Maggie Farley, of Wilna, who 
died January 1, 1875. February 23, 1886, he married Elizabeth A., widow of Oliver Mack, 
who had a son, Luther A., by her first husband. 

William Wilson, a native Yorkshire, Eng., came to America about 1831 or '32, and settled 
in the town of Antwerp, at the locality known as Scott settlement, where he built a log house, 
into which he moved with his wife and nine children. He engaged in farming, subsequently- 
removing to Morristown, N. Y., and later to Michigan, where he died. Grace, daughter of 
William, married George W. Smith, of Rossie, St. Lawrence County, where they resided for a 
number of years, finally locating in Antwerp, where Mr. Smith died in 1879. Mrs. Smith re- 
sides with her sou Duaue in Theresa. A daughter, Mary, lives in Watertown. 



276 TOWN OF ANTWERP. 



Samuel H. Harris was born in Exeter, N. H., March 2, 1839, and in 1856 located in North- 
ern New York. He was educated in the common schools, and August 9, 1862, enlisted in the 
Union army. He married, first, in October, 1866, Sylvia M. Benson, of Alexandri:i, and they 
had two children. May L. and Jay S. She died in February, 1871, and May 29, 1873, he mar- 
ried Jennie Webster, of Antwerp. He is a farmer. 

James Scott was born in Roxburghsliire, Scotland, about 1800. He married Helen, daugh- 
ter of Henry Johnson, also of Roxburghshire, and in 1833 they emigrated to the United States 
and located in Antwerp. They had four sons and four daughters, namely: John, Henry, Rob- 
ert, Helen, Jeanett, William, Jane, and Betsey. Henry Scott, the subject of this sketch, 
attended the common schools until he attained the age of 19 years. November 19, 1863, he mar- 
ried Hannah, eldest daughter of Dr. Rowland Briggs, of Antwerp, by whom he has had one 
son and two daughters. The daughters, Ivia A. and Helen Olivia, survive. 

Richard Hochiug was born in Cornwall, England. December 4, 1848, he married Mary, 
daughter of Samuel Tuckfield. and in 1867 they emigrated to the United States. They have 
two children, Richard and Mary Ann. Richard, Jr., married Catherine Goldsworthy, of Corn- 
wall, England, and they now reside in Park City, Utah. Mary Ann married Charles Pregema, 
also of Cornwall. 

Joseph P. Lawton was born in Antwerp, May 22, 1833. He received a liberal education 
and taught school several years. October 29, 1856, he married Jane, eldest daughter of James 
Wilson, of Philadelphia, and they have had 11 children. Jay P. Lawton, the eldest son of Jo- 
seph P., was born in the town of Philadelphia, October 17, 1860, and attended the common 
schools until he was 16 years old. June 4, 1882, he married Sarah E., second daughter of Sim- 
eon P. Chapman, of Theresa, and they have two children. Add. E., and Perley W. F. 

Augustus Fairbanks was born in Maine in 1803. Ezra, his only surviving son was born 
in Deerfleld, N. Y., where he attended the common schools until he attained the age of 16 
years. January 1, 1857, he married Emily M. Bacon, of Antwerp, and they have had four 
children. — three sons and a daughter,— of whom the sons survive, namely: Silas A., Arthur 
B., and Earl. Arthur B. Fairbanks married Minnie, daughter of John P. Cranktr, of Ox Bow 
village, where he now resides. His father also resides here. 

John Johnson, born in Moffatt. Dumfrieshire, Scotland, was twice marrif d. His first wife, 
Joanna Tate, resided near Edinburgh, Scotland, where Mr. Johnson located after his marriage, 
and they had four children, three of whom survive, namely: Ann, Edward, and William. Mr. 
Johnson came to this country in 1834 and located in Antwerp. He married, second, Janett 
(Johnson) Tate, and they had one daughter, Mary E. Edward Johnson was born in Scotland 
and was seven years of age when his father removed to this country. March 13, 1851, he 
married Betsey Johnson, also a native of Scotland, and they have had nine children, namely: 
Nettie, Joanna, Nellie, John, and Eddie, who are dead, and James W., Charles C, Julia A., 
and Clark E., who survive. The family occupy the old homestead on road 50, where they have 
resided 34 years. 

Reuben Kelsey was born in Saybrook, Conn.. September 7, 1787. About 1813 he married 
Bebecca Bushnall, also of Saybrook, and they had 12 children, 11 of whom attained maturity, 
namely: Azubah, Daniel B., Frederick VV., Louisa E., Samuel S., Merritt, Rhoda M., Alida A., 
Sally, Harriet A., and Charles. They located in Faiitield, N. Y., about 1814. Merritt, the 
fourth son, was born in Fairfield, April 4, 1823, and in 1835 came to Antwerp, where he married 
March 12, 1856, Mary Weston, by whom he has had four children, two of whom, Delancy M. 
and Jeremy W., survive. 

Levi Chase was born in Portland, Maine, February 22, 1808, and when 14 years of age 
came to this county. In 1838 he married Harriet Shurtleff, of Le Ray, and they had three 
sons and two daughters. Clinton A., the subject of this sketch, is an adopted son, and was 
born March 26, 1863. He received a common school educaticm and is now engaged in farm- 
ing. November 15, 1888, he married May M., only daughter of John G. Miller, of Theresa, 
and now resides in Antwerp. 

George H. Wood was born in Lansdown, County Leeds, Canada, March 12, 1861, and came 
to the United States in 1885. December 15, 1886, he married Lellah S., daughter of Elijah 
and Sophronia Graves, of Antwerp, and they have a son, who was born November 6, 1888. Mr. 
Wood IB a farmer. 

Clark Willard was born in the town of Rutland, December 25, 1809, and was educated in the 



TOWN OF ANTWERP. 



277 



common schools. October 30, 1838, he married MaryD. Ellis, and soon after located iu Ant- 
werp. They had four children, namely: Lois A., Charles E., Elbert C, and Henry E. Elbert 
C. Willard was born in Antwerp, October 11, 1843. He received a good education, and is now 
engaged in farming and breeding horses. March 11, 1865, he married Anna, daughter of 
George Cornwell, ajid they have two sons and two daughters, namely: Charks H., Minnie A.. 
John C. and Eleanor E. September 25, 1872, Henry E. Willard married Eleanor, fourth daugh- 
ter of George Cornwell. 

Daniel R. Hall was born in Antwerp in 184(5. In 1865 he married Mrs. Miles, of Le Ray, and 
they have three children, George W., Clara L., and Erwin G. The latter was born October 15, 
1866. February 3, 1886, he married Rose V., daughter of Joseph L. Frost, of Philadelphia, 
and they have a son, Egbert K. 

Samuel Markwick, born in Sussex, England, in 1809, married Mary Shadwell, also of Sussex, 
March 25, 1827, and in 183G they came to this country and located in Rossie, St. Lawrence 
County. They have had nine children, eight of whom survive, viz. : Stephen, Matilda, John, 
■WiUiam, Benjamin, Mary, Sarah J., and Henry. October 23, 1879, Sarah J. married Darius 
J. H. Lee. Mis. Markwick died May 15, 1882. Mr. Markwick has resided in Antwerp since 1838. 

Robert Dickson came to this country from Scotland in 1835. He married Ann Wilson, of 
Roxboroughshire, Scotland, and they have two sons and two daughters, namely: Alexander W., 
Nellie, Jennett, and John S. The latter was educated in the public schools and Ives Seminary. 
He married Sophia Lewis, of Wilna, and they have three children, viz.: Sylveuus R., Ora F., 
and Walter E.. Mrs. Dickson's maternal ancestors were French. Mr. Dickson resides on 
road 68. 

Allen Woodward was born in Buckland, Mass., December 4, 1798, and early in life came to 
this town and located near Spragueville. He married, first, Olive Ellis, who bore him a daugh- 
ter, Olive. His second wife, Susan Blodgett, of Antwerp, bore him six sons and two daughters. 
James S. Woodward, sou of Allen, was born in Spragueville, July 15, 1839. He was reared 
upon a farm and attended the common schools until he was 17 years old. In 1861 he enlisted 
and served in the Union army. He married Tinnie L., second daughter of Silas Bacon, and 
they have two children, Anna E. and Claud S. 

Hartwell H. Bent was born in the town of Philadelphia, May 9, 1837, and when four years of 
age removed with his parents to Denmark, Lewis County. When 15 years of age he located 
in Antwerp. Mr. Bent was a prominent citizen and served as supervisor several terms. He 
was prominently identified with the manufacture of cheese in this town, and owned several 
factories. July 12, 1852, he married Fanny, youngest daughter of Henry C. Baldwin, of Ant- 
werp, formerly of Vermont, and they had two sons, viz.: Roy H. and Winn C. Roy H. is a 
cheesemaker, and resides on Main street in the village of Antwerp. Winn C. is attending 
school. Hartwell H. Bent's widow resides on Main street. 

Rufus L. Maxon was born in Hounsfield about 1829, where he married Azelia Warren, who 
bore him five children, three of whom survive, namely: Frank E., Minnie L., and Bennie M. 
Frank E. Maxon was born in Hounsfield, January 20, 1863. He received a common school edu- 
cation with two years at Potsdam Normal School. In March, 1887, he married Anna M., daugh- 
ter of John Graham, of Sackets Harbor, and is now station agent for the R., W. & O. Rail- 
road at Antwerp. 

James Hunt was born in Salisbury, Herkimer County, June 16, 1802, and when 14 years of 
age came to Jeft'erson County with his father. He was reared upon a farm and attended the 
common schools. He married, first, Asa Congdin, and they had three children, two of whom, 
Emeline and Charles, survive. He married, second, Phama C. Blair, of Chenango Coiinty, by 
whom he had two children, namely: Helen A. and James, Jr. The latter was bom March 28, 
1832. Charles Hunt was born in the town of Antwerp, February 1, 1855. He married Clarissa, 
youngest daughter of Solomon Pool, of Theresa, and they have five children, namel}': James C, 
Elbert C, Jennie Z., Burton T., and Harvey, Mr. Hunt served in the late war. 

John Broad came to this town from Washington County about 30 years ago. He had two 
sons and one daughter, viz.: John, William, and Mary. Mary Broad was born in Washington 
County, November 11, 1852, and came to Jeflerson County with her father. She is now keeping 
house for her brother William, on road 57. 

John SncU, a native of Lowville, N. Y., married Blary Pomeroy, of Denmark, and their sons 
were John D. and Charles C. John D. Siiell was born in the town of Antwerp, December 4, 



278 TOWN OF ANTWERP. 

1839. He was reared upon a farm and attended the common schools until he attained the age 
of 18 years. December 31, 1862, he married Amelia Shampine, of La Fargeville, and they 
have four children, namely: Frederick D., Jennie M., Ora D., and John C. Mr. Snell served 
in the Union army until the close of the late war. Charles C. Snell married Leonora Ormsby, 
of Sarauac, N. Y., and they have five children, namely: Geneva M., Edna L., Carrol J., Mary 
J., and Georgianna. 

Jacob W. Cole was born in Otsego County, September 17, 1809. September 11, 1833, he 
married Catherine McFee, of Cherry Valley, and they had four sons and four daughters, namely: 
Elizabeth, Ezra, Margaret, David, Jacob S., Judson, Catherine, and Frances. Jacob S. Cole was 
born in this county, where he attended the common schools until he attained the age of 15 years. 
He married, in 1875, Ellen F., daughter of Peter A. Nellis, of Otsego County, and they have a son, 
Fred S. In 1862 Mr. Cole enlisted in the Union army and served to the close of the war. His 
great-grandfather, Henry Lj'on (or Lines), was a Revolutionary soldier. Andrew McFee, 
father of Mrs. Jacob W. Cole, was captured by the Indians and taken to Canada, was adopted 
by a chief of the tribe and remained two years. 

Eli Stewart, born in Massachusetts, came to Herkimer County as early as 1812. He served 
in the War of 1812 and was in the battle of Sackets Harbor. He married Elsie Fanning and 
they had seven children, three of whom died in infancy, and a son, Gilbert, was killed in the 
ate Rebellion. William, Lucinda, and James survive. The latter was educated in the com- 
mon schools and is a farmer by occupation. March 27, 1856, he married Fanny, eldest daughter 
of Frederick Stype, of Antwerp, and they have had three children, namely: Joseph Lester, 
who died at the age of two years, Frederick Eli and Elsie Elizabeth, who survive. Mr. and 
Mrs. Stewart adopted a son from the Watertown Orphan Home, whose name was Adelbert 
Budlong. 

Hiram Nichols was born in Verona, N. Y., August 15,'1816. January 25, 1843, he married 
Phebe E. Duell. of Palermo, by whom he had six children, threu of whom survive, namely: 
Charles E., Emma J., and George W. Mr. Nichols served in the Union army during the late 
war. He died February 3, 1884. His widow resides in Antwerp. 

Peter Kitts, a native of Herkimer County, located in Lowville, Lewis Coi;nty, in 1839. 
He married, first, a Miss Barnes, of Lowville, by whom he had one son and three daughters, 
namely: Catharine, Polly Ann, Aaron, and Alice. He married, second, Susan Ward, bv whom 
he has had seven children, four of whom survive, namely: Harriet, Sarah, Fanny, and Benja- 
min F. The latter was born in Lowville. October 16, 1860, he married Lucinda Van Hussen, 
of Champion, and they have four children, namely: George Eugene, Hattie A., Merton W,, 
and Earl M. 

David Graham came with his father from England when he was eight years of age. He lo- 
cated in the town of Wilna. In 1836 he married Mary Rice, of Champion, and they had six 
children. John W., son of David, was born in Wilna. June 19, 1852. and attended the common 
schools of that town until he was 14 years of age. Jamiary 1, 1878, he married Nellie, eldest 
daughter of Robert Dickson, of Antwerp, and they have two children, Thomas H. and Ethel B. 
Peter Worney was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, August 1, 1830. In 1857 he emigrated 
to the United States, and located in New Bremen, N. Y., subsequently removing to Antwerp. 
Mr. Worney has been married three times. His first wife was Catherine Snyder, of New 
Bremen. His second wife, Armena Bacon, of Antwerp, bore him two children, both of whom 
are deceased. By his third wife, Mis. H. Porter, of Sterlingville, he has a daughter, Lucy M. 
Mr. Worney served in the Union array in the late war. 

Ira Wiser was born in Deerfield, Oneida County, September 15, 1808, and when 15 years of 
age removed to Frankfort. March 30, 1832, he married Rebecca, fourth daughter of Christo- 
pher Joslin, of Frankfort, Herkimer County. Mr. Wiser died January 7, 1884. Mrs. Wiser 
survives, and resides in the village of Antwerp. 

Richmond Howland was born in the town of Rutland, September 10, 1803. In 1847 he mar- 
ried Harriet M. Eggleston, of Hebron, N. Y., and they now reside in the village of Antwerp, 
on W^ashington street. Alice Gordon, who resides with Mr. and Mrs. Howland. was born in 
Jackson, Mich. 

John Martin came from Ireland and located in Wilna, near Carthage. His wife, Helen Car- 
roll, bore him seven children — three sons and four daughters. James F., son of John, was 
born in Wilna, January 6, 1859. He married Helen Savage, of Rossie, N. Y., and they have 



TOWN OF ANTWERP. 279 



five sons and four daugliters, namely: Minnie E., Helen C, Susan J., James F., Jr., John S., 
Albert, Annie, Charles, and Emmit. Mr. Martin has been in the employ of A. & E. Copley for 
18 years. 

Ezra Hicks was born in Saratoga County, N. Y., in 1814, and when a youth came with his 
father to Jefferson County. He married, first, Clarissa Parks, of Evans Mills, who bore him 
five children, and second, Mrs. Canfleld, widow of Warner. He has been chiefly engaged in the 
manufacture of lumber. William Hicks was the second child born to Ezra by his first mar- 
riage. He was educated in the common schools, and when 26 years of age married Hester 
Goodenough, of Wilna, June 12, 1866, and they have five children, viz.: Clarissa M., Clarence 
E., Dennis F., Lucy A., and Fred W. Both Ezra and William Hicks served in the late war. 
William was wounded in the battle of South Mountain, September 14, 1862. 

Marcus B. Cheeseman was born in Theresa in 1837. He married Ann Farrell, of Kedwood, 
and they had five children. William E. Cheeseman, son of Marcus B., was born in Theresa, 
September 19, 1861, and attended the public schools until he was 18 years of age. September 
29, 1883, he married Helen R. McDaniel, of Le Ray, and they have a son, Harrison M., and re- 
side in the village of Antwerp. 

Samuel Burtis was born July 4, 1800. He married Polly Oliver, of Orleans, and they had 
four sons and five daughters. William Burtis, son of Samuel, was born in Pamelia, November 
17, 1825, and attended the public schools of that town until he attained the age of 13 years. 
He married, first, Julia Murphy, of Philadelphia, N. Y., by whom he had a son, James E. Mrs. 
Burtis died in May, 1851. In 1857 he married Harriet L. Allen, of Antwerp, by whom he has 
two sons and a daughter, namely: Carrie A., William S., and Charles T. 

Samiiel Martin was born November 25, 1817. He married Mary, daughter of Calvin Rider, 
of Antwerp, and thej' had two children, Helen M. and Henry C. The latter was educated in 
the common schools. November 25, 1869, he married Amanda L., daughter of Daniel Cotton, 
of Edwards, N. Y., and they have four children, namely : Helen E., Willie H., Albert K., and 
Georgia M. He resides in this town on road 68. 

Timothy Bacon, a native of Princetown, N. Y., married Lucy Morton, of Hatfield, N. Y., 
and they had 10 children, of whom Morton T., when 21 years of age, married Lovina Wooley, 
of Le Ray, and they have had nine children, eight of whom survive, namely: Eliza, William, 
Rasselus, 2d, Harley M., Millard, Viola, Leona, and Jessie. Susan, the eldest, died at the age 
of 19 years. Rasselus married Cora Hall, of Philadelphia, this count.y, October 9, 1881, and 
they have a daughter, Bernice, and reside in the town of Wilua. Morton T. Bacon served in 
the late war, and now resides on Washington street, in the village of Antwerp. 

Alexander Hall was born in the Mohawk valley in 1810, and when young removed with his 
parents to Lewis County. In 1835 he married Jane Murphy, of Lowville, by whom he had 
nine children, seven of whom survive, namely: Elisha B., Stephen L., Lewis F., Walton E., 
Mary E.. Florine A., and Theodocia. Stephen L. was born in Lowville, June 30, 1839. April 
26, 1864, he married Louise Kappler, of BiitTalo, and they have six children, namely: Walton 
L., Jennie, George H., Alfred S., Kattie L., and Charles A. 

William Hall was born in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1815, and when 19 years of age came with 
his parents to the United States and located in the town of Antwerp. December 27, 1858, he 
married Elizabeth, eldest daughter of John Dickson, of this town. Their son Frederick D. is a 
farmer on road 68. 

John Moak, Sr., grandfather of Di-. Sheldon R., was born in New Scotland, N. Y. John, 
Jr., was also born in New Scotland, in April, 1800, and was educated in the common schools. 
In 1823 he married Nancy Davison, of Minden, N. Y., and they had four children, namely: 
Sheldon R., Charlotte, Jesse D., and Warren H. Sheldon R. Moak was born in Danube, N. Y., 
and received an academic education. He also graduated from the Castleton (Vt.) Medi- 
cal College. September 1, 1852, he married Martha Jane, second daughter of Isaac and 
Belinda Thompson, of Theresa, and they have had three children, all of whom are deceased, 
namely: Frank W., Miriam E., and Edith M. Their adopted daughter, Mattie, died July 4, 
1884. Dr. and Mrs. Moak reside in the village of Ox Bow, in this town. 

Joel Peeler was born in Palestine, N. Y., in 1785, and in 1801 became one of the pioneers 
of Jefferson County. He married Olive Wood, of Broome County, and they had seven 
children, two of whom, Alonzo D. and Syhnis, survive. Sylvus Peeler was born August 25. 
1821, and is a farmer by occupation. In 1844 he married Margaret, daughter of Christopher 



TOWN OF ANTWERP. 



Closs. of Pamelia, and they have had 14 children. 10 of whom surviye, namely: Mary D., Isaae 
D., Alma J., Frank H., Helen C, Annis I., Hiram E., George S., William, and Lydia. Mr. 
and Mrs. Peeler reside in this town on road 32. 

Eichard Bellinger was born in Little Falls, N. Y., in 1795. He married Elizabeth Sharp, 
a native of that town, and they had 10 children, six of whom are living, namely: John R., 
Lucinda A., Peter J., Eichard A., William, and James. Peter J. Bellinger was born in Ogdeus- 
burg, N. Y., September 20, 1832, and soon afterwards located with his parents in Morristown. 
Decembei- 14, 1854, he married Jennett, eldest daughter of Peter and Eliza (Davis) McLarren, 
of Morristown. They have an adopted son, Lewis, and reside in this town on road 41. 

James Dickson was born in Eoxbnrghshire. Scotland. August 22, 1809. In 1831 he located 
in Brockville, Canada, where he worked at the carpenters' trade for a short time, when he 
removed to Eossie, St. Lawrence County. March 5, 1836, he married Betsey Laidlow, of St. 
Lawrence County, and they had seven children, namely: Euphamia M., John, 2d, Alexander 
L., Eiibert, 2d, James C, Jennie, and Betsey Helena. Eobert, 2d, is a farmer by occupation^ 
November 6, 1867, he married Adelia E., daughter of James C. Lynde, and they have three 
children. James E., Anna E., and Milton L. John Dickson, 2d, is also a farmer, and is located 
on road 32, in this town. March 4, 1879, he married Lucy A., third daughter of George 
Ormistou, of Ox Bow village, and they have two children, John C. and Helen E. 

William Eentler married Hannah Spirit, in Yorkshire, Eng., and in 1833 came to this 
country. He arrived at Ogdensburg with a sick wife, four small children, and one English 
sovereign. They had born to them 14 children, 12 of whom are living, namely: Eobert, George, 
Mary. James, Eichard, Betsey, Wilham I., Jonathan, Joseph, Charles, Maria, and Jane, 
Eobert Eender came with his parents to this country when he was four years old. He rtceived 
a good ^ducation and taught school seven terms. December 31, 1859, he married Annice C, 
only daughter of Tomkins Jenne, and they have had four children, of whom one died in 
infancy. William T. died at the age of 21 years, and George H. and Mary E. survive. George 
H. is engaged in farming with his father, and Mary E. is teaching school and also music and 
painting. 

Setli Sprague was born in Washington County, N. Y., November 26, 1807. He marriedl 
Cynthia Bowen, of that county, and they had nine children, namely: Aurilla, Daniel W.,. 
Cordelia, Chester, Samuel B., Leonora J., Mary J., Phebe L., and Charles D. Daniel W. 
Sprague was born in Pitcairn, N. Y., June 27, 1839. He received a liberal education, is a gen- 
eral merchant, and has served his townsmen as supervisor and justice of the peace. He has 
been married three times. January 1, 1854, he married Mary Clark, of St. Lawrence County, 
who died February 17, 1865. August 4, 1868, he married Maria Chapiu, of Eusseh, N. Y., wha 
died August 4, 1872, October 17, 1873, he married Sarah E. Peneman, of Watertown, and 
they have two sons, Charles S. and Fred A. 

Joseph Scurrah was born in Yorksliire, Eng., in 1797, where he married Hannah Ogden,. 
and they had 12 children, eight of whom survive, namely: Charles, Joseph, Thomas, 
George, Fred W., Hannah, Mary, and Fannie. Thomas Scurrah came to the United States 
with his parents when two years of age, and first located in the city of Eochester. June 17, 
1868, he married Mary S., eldest daughter of Hugh Ormistou, and they have had eight 
children, six of whom survive, namely: Frank H., Gertrude A., Joseph T., Fred O., Charles 
C, and Florence M. Mr. Scurrah resides with his family in the village of Ox Bow. 

Levi Baldwin was born in Goshen, Conn., March 10, 1819. His father, Silas, died in 1824. 
Levi has been twice married. His first wife was Eliza Pooler, of Goshen, Conn., whom he 
married February 27, 1847. They had two children, both of whom are dead. In 1863 he mar- 
ried Frances A., second daughter of E. C. Church, of Antwerp, and they have had six chil- 
dren, five of whom survive, namely: John L., William C, Lyman H., Orvis C, and Francis E. 
Mr. Baldwin is a Ciittle dealer and farmer. His sou William C. is also a farmer, and resides in 
this town on road 6. Mrs. Baldwin's father, E. C. Church, formerly resided in Berkshire 
County, Mass. Her brother is a county official, and resides in Canandaigua, Ontario County. 
Sterhng and Elijah Graves, brothers, of Enghsh descent, at an early day located in Con- 
necticut. About 1825 Elijah settled in Eutland, this county, where he married, in 1825, Sarah 
Wicks, who bore him five children, three of whom, Joseph F., Julia E., and Elijah B., survive. 
He married, second, Marinda Clark, of Eutland, and they had four children. Mr. Graves died 
in 1884. Joseph F. Graves was born in Pamelia, July 26, 1827. In 1851 he married Lydia L.^ 



TOWN OF ANTWERP. 201 



second daughter of Thomas W. Bent, of Croghan, Lewis County, and they have live children, 
namely: George D., Erwin R., Adelaide A., Fred E., and Ernest C. Adelaide A. married Sam- 
uel G. Eggleston, of Antwerp, and they have had six cliildren, namely: Joseph F., Marcia L., 
Everett H., Fred S., Herbeit L.. and Bertha A. The latter died at the age of seven years. 
Erwin 11. married Lydia A., daughter of Sylvus Peeler, of Antwerp, and they have three chil- 
dren, Eftie F., Joseph F., and Eugene. Joseph F. Graves, first named in this sketcli, is the 
architect of his own fortune, and wishes to be known as a Jackson Democrat. 

George W. Cornwell was born in Brownville, September 11. 1805. In 1830 he married Polly, 
third daughter of James Shurtlcff, of Theresa, and was one of the pioneers of that town. 
They had five sons and five daughters, namely: Melvin E., Philinda, George, John F., Mary, 
James S., Isaac, Anna, Eleanor, and Sarah L. Isaac died in 1865, while serving in the navy 
during the late war. Mary married James Cassey, of Theresa, and died in 1886. John F. 
Cornwell was born in Theresa, February 22, 1837. He was educated in the common schools 
and an academy, and is now engaged in farming and horse breeding. In 1863 he married Lois 
A., only daughter of Clark Willard, and they have a daughter, Mary E., who married Fiank O. 
Eddy, of Theresa, by whom she has a daughter, Marion Ellis. 

Samuel Barr was born in Salem, Mass., March 1, 1791, and when 12 years of age came with 
his parents to Champion, in this county. He was reared upon a farm, and attended the com- 
mon schools until he attained the age of 15 years. In 1821 be married Polly Cleghorn, of 
Gouverneur. N Y., and four of their children are living, namely: Dexter M., Olivia, Diantha, 
and William Z. The latter was born in the town of Champion, July 31, 1827, and received an 
academic education. In 1851 he married Lydia C, second daughter of Dean Burt, formerly of 
Windsor, Vt., and they have four children, namely: Selecta J., Mary A., Benjamin F., and 
William Z., Jr. In 1888 William Z., Jr., married Nettie M., fourth daughter of Edward West- 
wood, of Antwerp, and they have a son, William Z., 3d, who was born March 16, 1889. 

John R. Rutherford was born in Northumberland, Eng., in 1800. About 1829 he married 
Agnes Scott, a native of Scotland, and about 1831 they emigrated to the United States. They 
had eight children,— seven sons and one daughter, — five of whom survive, namely: James S., 
Thomas T., George, Robert, and Margaret. Thomas T. Rutherford was born in Potsdam, 
N. Y., in 1835, and was educated in the common schools. In 1871 he married Emogene, only 
daughter of William Bishop, and they have a son, William J., and reside in this town on road 
12, where four generations of the family are living. 

John T. Hopper, son of Samuel, was born in Antwerp, February 27, 1841, and attended 
the common schools and an academy until he attained the age of 22 years. In 1866 he mar- 
ried Emeline, only daughter of William Whitfield, and they have had six children, two of 
whom survive, namely: Jeau Paul and Beatrice. Mr. Hopper resides in the village of Ant- 
werp, on Mechanic street. 

Elijah Houghton, Sr., father of William and grandfather of William A., was born in the 
town of Harvard, Mass., June 12, 1800, whence he removed with his parents to the town of 
Le Ray when eight years of age. He married Harriet Dopking, of Oneida County, and they 
had 10 children, of whom William, who resides with his father on the homestead, married 
Harriet C, daughter of Rodney Simmons, of Theresa, and they had eight children. William 
A., son of William, was born on the homestead November 12, 1863. He received a common 
school and academic education, and graduated from Eastman's Commercial College, at Pough- 
keepsie. He taught school several terms, and is now a book-keeper and clerk for Ira C. Hins- 
dale, of Antwerp village. In 1888 he married Alice, eldest daughter of Samuel E. Wicks, of 
this town, and they have a son, Charles W., who was born April 2, 1889. Mr. Houghton re- 
sides on Mechanic street, in Antwerp village. 

Giles Hogan was born in Cumberland County, N. J., in 1804. In 1824 he married Eliza- 
beth Remer, also of Cumberland County, and they had six sons, namely: Thomas P., Harmon, 
John F., David H., William R., and Abraham R. Thomas P. Hogan was born December 13, 
1823. March 10, 1850, he married Eveline L. Kinsman, and they have eight children, namely: 
Elizabeth, Josephine, Annice, Randolph, WiUiani H., George C, Theodore, and Hattie M. 
^Ii-. Hogan resides on Main street, in Antwerp village. 



282 TOWN OF BROWNVILLE. 



BR0Y7NVILLK 



BROWNVILLE was formed from Leyden, April i, 1802, and was named 
in honor of its founder and first settler, Jacob Brown, who afterwards 
became major-general in the United States army. The town origi- 
nally embraced all that portion north of Black River from a line running from 
the northwest corner of Champion, north 45 degrees east to the southwesterly 
bounds of the county of St. Lawrence. Le Ray was taken off in 1806; Lyme in 
1818; Pamelia in 1819; and Orleans and a part of Alexandria in 1821. It is 
situated on the north side of Black River and Black River Bay, which separate 
it from Hounsfield and Watertown, is bounded on the north by Clayton and 
Orleans, on the east by Pamelia, on the west by Lake Ontario, and on the 
northwest by Guffin's Bay (an arm of Chaumont Bay) and the town of Lyme. 
The present limits of the town include 33,994 acres. Railroad facilities are 
afforded by the R., VV. & O. Railroad, which passes through the town, with 
•stations at Brownville village and Limerick. 

The first town meeting was held at the house of Samuel and Jacob Brown, 
and adjourned to Brownville Hotel, March i, 1803, at which the following 
town officers were elected: Jacob Brown, supervisor ; Isaac Collins, clerk; 
John VV. Collins, Richard Smith, and Peter Pratt, assessors; J. W. Collins, 
Ozias Preston, Samuel Starr, commissioners of highways ; O. Preston, Rich- 
ardson Avery, Henry A. Delamater, Samuel Brown, Benjamin Brown, Will- 
iam Rogers, Abijah Putnam, fence viewers; S. Brown, S. Starr, overseers of 
the poor; S. Brown, Sanford Langworthy, Caleb J. Bates, Sylvanus Fish, 
H. A. Delamater, Frederick Sprague, George Waffle, Ethni Evans, pathmas- 
ters ; J. W. Collins, H. A. Delamater, and S. Brown, poundmasters. 

Prior to 1788 these lands were in the possession of the Oneida Indians of 
the Iroquois Confederacy. In September of that year the Oneidas, by treaty, 
conveyed, for a consideration, the greater part of their lands to the state. 
The United States confirmed this treaty November 11, 1794. In 1791 Alex- 
ander Macomb bargained for a large tract embracing this section, and in 
1792 employed William Constable to sell lands in Europe. April 12, 1793, 
Constable effected a sale of 210,000 acres of this land to Peter Chassanis, of 
Paris ; and Chassanis appointed Rodolph Tillier, of New York, to manage and 
sell this property. 

Macomb's tract No. 4 was surveyed in 1796 by C. C. Broadhead, assisted 
by Jonas Smith, Timothy Wheeler, Joshua Northrup, Elias Marvin, John 
Young, Isaac Le Fevre, Elijah Blake, Samuel Tupper, Eliakim Hammond, 
and Abraham B. Smede, each with a corps of assistants, and the whole hav- 



TOWN OF BROWNVILLE. 283 



ing a general camp or rendezvous at Pillar Point, at a place called Peck's 
Cove, near where the Chassanis line crosses the bay. 

When Chassanis first arranged for this tract of land it was proposed to 
divide it into lots of 50 acres each, giving title and possession of one lot to 
each purchaser, and reserving for each purchaser another lot of 50 acres, 
of which he was not to come into possession until a future period. Provision 
was also made for two cities, one of whicli was to be located between Brown- 
ville and Dexter ; 600 acres were set aside for that purpose, to be called the 
"city of Basle." 

The surface of Brownville is level or gently undulating. The soil is sandy 
or clayey loam. Sulphate of barytes is found on Pillar Point, and the vein 
has been worked to some extent for lithic paint. Upon the west bank of 
Perch River, a few rods below Limerick, is a cave extending 150 yards into 
the bank and 30 feet below the surface. Perch River enters the town in the 
northeast corner, and taking a southwesterly direction empties into Black River 
Bay. It is a dull, sluggish stream, and the lay of the land along its course 
is flat and in many places marshy. A dam was built at Limerick at an 
early day, but it was found to overflow the fiats above and render them un- 
healthful, when it was removed by order of the court, and afterwards built be- 
low. 

Brownville, in 1812, was about 24 miles north and south, and nearly the 
same in breadth. The village contained at that time about 20 houses, sev- 
eral stores, a school-house, a grain and a saw-mill, and a distillery. 

In 1820 the village contained about 60 dwellings, a stone church, school- 
house, two grist-mills, three saw-mills, one fulling-mill, one carding machine, 
a woolen factory, a cotton factory with 1,000 spindles, a rolling and slitting- 
mill, a trip-hammer and nail factory, and a number of stores ; and there were 
besides these in the town five grist-mills, seven saw-mills, one fulling-mill, 
two distilleries, and ^;^ asheries. There were 15 school districts. 

In 1880 Brownville had a population of 2,624. The town is located in the 
first school district of Jefferson County, and in 1888 had 20 school districts, 
in which 24 teachers were employed 28 weeks or more. There were 632 
scholars attending school, and the aggregate days attendance during the year 
was 57,589. The total value of school buildings and sites was $16,600, 
while the assessed valuation of all the districts was $1,654,733. The whole 
amount raised for school purposes was $5,913.19, $3,194.39 of which was 
received by local tax. S. Whitford Maxson was school commissioner. 

Brownville vilfage, a station on the R., W. & O. Railroad, was incorpo- 
rated April 5, 1828. It is located on Black River, four miles from Watertown, 
has telephone, telegraph, and American Express offices, one hotel, several 
churches, three or four paper and pulp-mills, a foundry and machine shop, 
two blacksmith shops, shoe shops, harnessmaker, livery stable, a general 
store, two groceries, a dry goods store, and a population of about 600. Many 



TOWN OF BROWNVILLE. 



of the residences and other buildings are constructed of stone, which give 
the village an ancient appearance. 

Dexter is an incorporated village and postoffice, situated at the mouth of 
Black River, from which it derives a valuable water-power, and one and a half 
miles from the station on the R., W. & O. Railroad at Limerick. It has 
telegraph, telephone, and express offices, four churches, three pulp-mills, two 
paper-mills, a sash, door, and blind factory, two grist-mills, saw mill, wool- 
carding-mill, three general stores, drug store, several groceries, meat markets, 
restaurants, dressmakers, wheelwrights, blacksmiths, etc., and about 700 
inhabitants. The postoffice was established here in 1836, and the village 
was incorporated May 8, 1855, under general law, and amended by special 
act April 15, 1857, and January 28, 1865. It is one of the most enterpris- 
ing villages in the county, and will doubtless grow in importance. Steps 
have been taken towards erecting a large summer hotel here, which the 
healthful and desirable location of the village warrants. 

Limerick is a postoffice and station on the R , W. & O. Railroad, eight 
miles from Watertown. It is located on Perch River, has telephone, tele- 
graph, and American Express offices, a hoi el, store, a few shops, and about 
75 inhabitants. 

Perch River (p. o.) is a small hamlet on the river of the same name, and- 
is located in the northern part of the town. At an early day it was known 
as Mofifattville. It has telephone and express offices, a church, a few shops, 
and about a dozen dwellings. 

Pillar Point (p. o.) is located in the southern part of the town on Black 
River Bay, opposite Sackets Harbor. It owes its name to the appearance 
of certain rocks along the shore in this part of the town, which the action of 
the water has left standing, partly supported. A church, a few shops, and 
about two dozen dwellings are located here. 

Ontario Paper Co., G. W. Knowlton, president ; S. F. Bagg, vice-presi- 
dent ; E. B. Sterling, secretary and treasurer, manufactures news paper 
and wood pulp. Employment is furnished to 100 persons at this mill, which 
is one of the largest and best equipped paper mills in the state. It is situated 
on Black River, three and a half miles from Watertown, in the town of Brown- 
ville. The mill has an excellent water-power, and uses ten six-feet water- 
wheels and two 1,500-lb. and six i,ooo-lb. engines to furnish motive power.' 
The mill has in successful operation one 86-inch and one 96-inch paper machine, 
on which is manufactured 20 tons of news paper every 24 hours ; also eight pulp' 
and six wet machines, which turn out 16 tons of wood pulp in the same time. 

C. R. Remhigton &= Sou's paper and pulp-mill. — This mill is located on 
Black River, three miles below Watertown, in the town of Brownville, and 
gives employment to 75 men. Remington & Son have the whole of Black 
River for a water-power, with a good fall, which furnishes a good head. 
Eight six- foot wheels are used for a motive power, together with one Jordan 
and four' 700-lb. engines. The mill has one 86-inch Fourdrinier paper 



TOWN OF BROWNVILLE. 285 



■machine, which makes eight tons of news paper every 24 hours; also eight 
pulp and four wet machines, from which is manuiactured 15 tons of wood 
pulp every 24 hours. 

The Dexter Sulphite Pulp and Paper Co. — The Ontario woolen-mills 
were built in 1838 at a cost of $150,000. In 1868 the mills were closed, and 
in 1887 were purchased by the Dexter Sulphite Pulp and Paper Co., and 
•converted into a wood-pulp and paper-mill. The officers of the company 
are C. E. Campbell, president ; E. F. Bermingham, secretary and treasurer; 
James A Outterson, superinten lent. 

The Outterson Paper Company is located at Brownville village. J. T. Out- 
terson, president; C. E. Outterson, first vice-president; J. A. Outterson, 
second vice-president ; J. T. Waller, secretary and treasurer. 

The Frontenxc Paper Company is located in the village of Dexter. C. E. 
Cimpbell, president ; J. A. Oatterson, vice-president ; F. W. Spicer, secre- 
tary and treasurer; H. S. Rice, superintendent. 

The St. Laiurence Paper Company is located at Dexter with a capital stock 
of $60,000. The officers are Hon. Henry Binninger, of Dexter, president ; 
Charles M. Otis, of Watertown, vice-president ; Joseph Green, of Water- 
town, secretary and treasurer. 

The Dexter Jlouritic^-j/iill was built of wood in 1875. by Whitney & Fran- 
<;is, at a cost of $t 0,000, and was conducted by them for seven years, when 
it was purchased by Dodge & Osborn, who ran it two years. The present 
proprietors are Osborn & Cook. It has a turbine wheel, and is the only cus- 
tom fl )uring-mill in the town of Brownville. 

Binninger &^ Strainge's planing mill and sash and blind factory, located at 
Dexter village, was built by Henry Binninger, who is now one of the proprie- 
tors. 

Leonard, Gibnore &' Co's sash and blirid factory, located at Dexter, was 
built by Edgar Leonard in 1862. The machinery is run by water-power and 
a prosperous business is done. 

Reeves &> Taylor s cheese factory, located near Pillar Point, was built in 
1885, by James k. Reeves and Andrew Taylor. It has an annual capacity 
■of 50 tons of cheese. 

This town was first explored, with a view of settlement, by Jacob Brown,* 

* Jacob Brown was born in Pennsylvania in May, 1775, of Quaker parentage. He died 
in the city of Wasliineton, in February, 1828. He was first a sctiool teacher, then a land 
surveyor, and finally became a lawyer. While General Hamilton was acting chief com- 
mander of the army intended to fight the French in 1798, Brown was his secretary. He 
■settled upon lands he had purchased upon the Black River, and was the founder of Brown- 
ville. He became a county judge, a militia general, and was placed in command of the 
northern frontier of New York in 1S12. He performed eminent service during the war, 
and received the thanks of Congress and a gold medal. He was made general-in-chief of 
the army in 1821. At his death his remains were buried in Congressional burying-ground. 
— Los sing . 



286 TOWN OF BROWN VILLE. 



afterwards a distinguished citizen, who, while teaching school in New York, 
had met with Rodolph TiUier, the general agent for the Chassanis lands, and 
was induced to purchase a large tract and become the agent for commenc- 
ing a settlement, at a time when the difficulties attending such an enterprise 
were very great. Having engaged in this business he repaired, in 1799, to 
the location of the French company, at the High Falls, and made several 
journeys to Utica, when, having completed his arrangements, and collected 
provisions at the Long Falls, he, in March, 1799, passed down the old French 
roadj in company of three or four hired men, and happening to reach the 
river at the mouth of Philomel Creek, he was charmed at the prospect of a 
water-power, apparently perennial, and at once decided upon stopping here. 
He commenced clearing land, having sent for his father's family, who started 
on the 2 2d of April, from Bucks County, Pa., and after stopping a few days 
at New York and Schenectady, and hiring at Utica an extra boat, at length 
arrived at the location on May 17, 1799, having been nearly three weeks on 
the road. George Brown, a relative, came on in the same company, with a 
part of his family, making, with the boatmen, a parly of nearly 20. The 
boatmen soon returned, leaving one boat that served the means of communi- 
cation with Kingston, whence they derived most of their provisions, the stock 
left at Long Falls having been sold. When this company had arrived the 
first had cleared a small piece and got up the body of a log house, 20 feet 
square, which occupied a site in the village. The same season a log house 
was erected, 25 by 30 feet, and two stories high. This was not completed 
for occupation, however,- till the spring of 180 1. In the fall of 1800 a saw- 
mill was built at the mouth of Philomel Creek, the millwrights being Noah 
Durrin and Ebenezer Hills, and late in the fall a grist-mill was built for Mr. 
Brown by Ethni Evans, afterwards the pioneer of Evans Mills. In 1799 a 
great number came in to look for lands, many of whom selected farms on 
Perch River, and between that place and Brownville. Among these were 
John W. Collins, Richardson Avery, Nathan Parish, Horace Mathers, and 
others. In the summer of 1800 a great number settled, and the clearmgs 
had extended from the bank of the river nearly half a mile. The first settlers 
on Perch River incurred an obligation to clear a certain amount of land and 
erect a cabin. 

About 1800 Jacob Brown brought to his new home a bride. Her maiden 
name was Pamelia Williams, daughter of Captain Judge Williams, of Williams- 
town, a lady who proved herself in every way worthy of her distinguished hus- 
band. During the same year Charles Welch and Otis Britton, from Remsen, 
settled here. They took a job of chopping out a road from a point on the 
river, at Brownville, to the ferry at Chaumont, a distance of 10 miles. They 
began their job in November, but before it was completed a heavy fall of 
snow came; their shoes were worn out. They could get no others, and were 
obliged to finish their work and travel to Herkimer County, a distance of 
more than 80 miles, in their bare feet. Before leaving, however, they assisted. 



TOWN OF BROWNVILLE. 287 



Samuel Britton, an uncle of Otis, to put up the body of a log house. By 
some mishap Otis had his leg broken, and was drawn on an ox sled to Floyd, 
Charles preceding the team with his axe to clear the road. The following 
fall Charles Welch married Eunice, daughter of Moses Cole, of Newport, 
and they settled in this town and commenced house-keeping in the little log 
cabin built by the Browns and used for a smoke-house. Nathan, twin 
brother of Charles, came in with him. and they took up a farm in the Parish 
neighborhood, where a son was born to Charles and Eunice, the first white 
child born in the new town north of Black River, and named Charles. 
Charles Welch afterwards settled on Prospect hill. 

The first bridge at Brcwnville was built by Oliver Bartholomew, at the 
mouth of Philomel Creek, in the summer of 1802, and the price, $1,000, 
was raised by subscription. This bridge was carried off by the great flood in 
the spring of 1806, and was rebuilt by Mr. Bartholomew and his sons in 1807, 
on the site of the present bridge. 

The first public house in Brown ville was built by Jeremiah Phelps, in 1805, 
on the site of the present stone hotel. The latter was built about 1820, by 
Henry Caswell and a Mr. Emerson, who soon afterward sold it to a company 
made up of William Lord, H. Lawrence, W. S. Ely, E. Kirby, I. Shields, 
and John E. Brown. In 1805 John Brown (afterwards Judge Brown) bought 
the lands on the south side of the river and built the mills there; and in 1806 
the first dam was thrown across the river at that place. In 1805 Samuel 
Starr built a log distillery down by the brook near his house, where'was made 
the first whisky in town. Nathaniel Peck married a daughter of Mr. Starr 
and was in company with him in the manufacture of whisky; he afterwards 
removed the distillery to what was known as the Nathaniel Peck farm. 

Alexander Moffatt, or "Conkey," as he was called, was the first settlsr in 
the vicinity of Limerick, about 1805. A Mr. Smith, Samuel Shelley, and 
Isaac Day were also early settlers here. Mr. Shelley once owned a mill at 
Limerick. 

Among the early settlers in the neighborhood of Pillar Point were Horatio 
Sprague, Eleazar Ball, Peter and Solomon Ingalls, Mr. Sherwin, Eliphalet Peck, 
Isaac Luther, Mr. Burlingame, Daniel Ackerman, Jere. Carpenter, Jesse 
Stone, George Rounds, James Douglass, Henry Adams, Samuel Reed, Mr. 
Fulsom, Luther Reed, and Henry Ward. Samuel Knap bought and cleared 
up 150 acres of land on the road to Limerick. Jere. Phelps, David Lyttle, 
and Solomon Stone located at Dexter, and later Mr. Willis and Jere. Wine- 
gar, and still later Kendall Hursley, Joshua Eaton, Jesse Babcock, Sylvanus 
Pool, John T.Wood, James A. Bell, Solomon Moyer, John P. Shelley, and 
others. 

After the erection of Jefferson County a strenuous effort was made by Mr. 
Brown and others to have the county buildings located here ; but a greater 
influence was brought to bear in favor of Watertown, and that village was se- 



TOWN OF BROWNVILLE. 



lected as the county seat, greatly to the disappointment of the settlers in 
Brown ville. 

In 1802 there were six frame and four log houses in the village of Brown- 
ville. In 1807 there were in the town 81 legal voters, with proper qualifications. 
The bounties on wolves ranged between $5 and $25 between 1806 and 1821. 
During the same years fox bounties were from 50 cents to $2.50. In 
1806 a bounty of $10, and in 1807 of $5, was offered for panthers. 

The navigation of the mouth of Black River, up as far as Br.^wnville, was a 
subject of much importance in the early days. It was thought that by mak- 
ing the river navigable to Brownville it would be made a port of entry for the 
commerce of the lakes, and a shipping port for the produce of the country. 
In 1810 the legislature passed an act to improve the navigation of the mouth 
of the river up to Brownville. With so good a harbor and port as w as af- 
forded by the bay at Sackets Harbor the project failed. June 5, 1810, the 
Black River Navigation Company was formed. The object of the company 
was the construction of locks at the rapids in the river at Fish Island (now 
Dexter). In 18 [5 wooden locks were built of capacity sufficient to allow 
the passage of Durham boats. About 1828, these wooden locks having de- 
cayed, they were replaced by stone ones. 

April 10, 1810, a post route was established from Utica, by Whitestown, 
Rome, Camden, Adams, and S ickets Harbor, to Brownville; and another 
from Harrisburg, by Champion, VVatertown, and Brownville, to Port Putnam; 
Aoril 30, 1816, from Brownville to Cape Vincent; June 15, 1832, from 
Wdtertown, by Brownville and La Fargeville, to Cornelia, at the mouth of 
the French Creek, thence by Depauville to Brownville. April 12, 1816, an 
act was passed allowing Mr. L-i Ray to extend the Cape Vincent turnpike 
road to Brownville village. By an act of April 21, 1831, this road was sur- 
rendered to the public. In 1817 a military road was projected to unite the 
two prominent stations of Plattsburgh and Sackets Harbor, which was com- 
menced, but only a portion completed. The wt stern extremity from Sack- 
ets Harbor passes through this town to Pamelia Four Corners. After being 
opened by the government it passed into the hands of the town. 

On the announcement of the declaration of war Brownville became the 
seat of much activity and excitement, from its being the headquarters of 
General Brown, who had the personal direction of military operations on this 
frontier during most of the first season. A hospital was established here, 
and troops were stationed in the village and vicinity at various times during 
that period. The greatest alarm prevailed throughout the country upon the 
arrival of the first tidings of war, but this soon wore away. 

The inhabitants living on Perch River on receiving the news were greatly 
alarmed, from their supposed exposure on the frontier, and some of the 
timid ones resolved to leave the country. To dissuade them from this it was 
proposed to build a block-house, which was forthwith done by voluntary 
labor, but when completed only served as a storehouse for the wheat of a 



TOWN OF BROWNVILLE. 289 



neighbor. The apprehensions soon subsided, however, and men resumed 
their customary pursuits, except when occasional drafts, or general alarms, 
called out the militia, or the emergencies of the service required the assem- 
bhng of teams for the transportation of the munitions of war. Prices of 
produce were, of course, extremely high, and from the large amount of gov- 
ernment money expended here the basis of many fortunes in the county 
were laid at that period. 

Samuel Brown, the father of Jacob Brown, resided in Bucks County, Pa., 
on the banks of the Delaware River. He was a man of wealth, and Jacob, 
with an older brother, was being educated at an academy in Trenton when 
his father, through unfortunate speculation, sustained financial reverses, and 
Jacob, at the age of i6, was obliged to leave school and become the teacher 
of his younger brothers and sisters. He afterwards taught a large school at 
Crosswicks, N. J., in the meantime preparing himself for his chosen profes- 
sion of land surveyor. He spent a year as surveyor in the Miami country,. 
Ohio, thus early developing those sterling qualities of energy and self-reliance 
that fitted him for pioneer life, as well as the arduous duties of his brilliant 
military career. 

The Brown family was now casting about to retrieve their fortunes, and 
Jacob, as well as his father, had strong proclivities towards a home in Ohio, 
and, with that in view, had entered into some negotiations for a tract of land 
now the site of the city of Cincinnati. These plans were not matured, and 
Jacob returned to New York in 1798 and took charge of a Quaker school; 
and while thus engaged formed the acquaintance of Tillier, the agent of 
Chassanis, and the prospect of coming into the Black River country was dis- 
cussed. Tillier accompanied him on a visit to his father's house, and a writ- 
ten agreement was entered into by which Tillier agreed to pay all the expense 
of a prospecting trip, whether he purchased or not. In February, 1799, hav- 
ing closed his school in New York, he proceeded to the French settlement 
at the High Falls, finding his way from Utica by marked trees. Here he 
remained to complete his plans, making several journeys to Utica, and return- 
ing with such supplies as would be needed in his projected trip. 

In March he launched his boat upon the swollen waters of Black River 
and floated down to Long Falls (Carthage), and thence, in company with two 
men by the name of Chambers and Samuel Ward, and a few hired men, he 
took the route of the " French road," so-called, which Tillier had caused to 
be opened at the expense of the French company from the High Falls on 
Black River to Great Bend, thence nearly direct to Clayton or French Creek. 
Traveling this road until they thought they had gone far enough, he struck 
off towards the river, which he reached at the Basin, one and a half m.iles be- 
low the present village of Brownville, Here he heard the sound of a waterfall 
and followed the river up till he came to a point where a creek,* swollen by 

* Philomel Creek, so named by Mr. Brown from hearing the song of a bird resembling 
the nightingale, or philomela, among the trees that skirted its banks. 
19* 



ago 



TOWN OF BROWNVILLE. 



the spring freshet, poured its torrent of waters into Black River. This creek 
did not then run in its present channel, but at a point near the present rail- 
road bridge it made an angle, and found a channel down through Scrabble 
Hollow into the river. A straight channel was afterwards cut through the 
rocks to the river, as at the present day. 

It was the intention of Jacob Brown to establish himself at the head of 
navigation, and believing this creek would afford water sufficient for mills 
and all manufacturing purposes, and the river below need but little im- 
provement to make it navigable for boats, he determined to locate here, and 
thus began the settlement of Brownvillc. 

He first set about clearing land, and built a log cabin. In the meantime 
he sent for his father's family, who arrived May 27, 1799, having found their 
way by the tedious navigation of the Mohawk, Oneida Lake, and Lake On- 
tario, pitching their tent at night on the shore and resuming their way by 
day. When the family arrived the log house had neither roof nor floor, door 
or window. It was built of pine logs, and a sail cloth taken from the boat 
and stretched across the upper timbers served as a roof. The openings for 
doors and windows were closed as well as possible by quilts and blankets. 
In this rude domicile, 20 feet square, were gathered the 20 persons, male and 
female, old and young, who composed this little colony. 

At this time there were not more than three families within 45 miles, and 
nothing like a settlement for 24 miles, all north of Black River being a dense 
wilderness. The Brown family at this time consisted of Samuel Brown and 
wife, Christopher, Jacob, John (afterwards Judge Brown), Joseph, Mary, Ben- 
jamin, Samuel, Hannah, VVdliam (who was drowned in Lake Erie while act- 
ing as aid to his brother, Major General Brown, during the War of 181 2), 
Abi, and Joseph. With them had come George Brown, a relative, with his 
two sons, Henry and Thomas, aged respectively 14 and eight years. These 
hardy pioneers endured hardships and overcame obstacles which would now 
be considered almost impossible even to those enured to the hardest kind of 
manual labor. Do we who are now enjoying the fruits of their toil ever stop 
to consider how fortunate we are that we were not men and women here 100 
years ago ? 

Thomas Y. How, from Trenton, N. J., a graduate of Princeton College, 
was one of the pioneers in this town, and brought with him his patrimony of 
$10,000. He loaned large sums to the Browns to aid them in carrying on 
their enterprises. He took up 100 acres of land on Perch River flats, 
which Jacob Brown engaged to clear for him. Mr. How was an agreeable 
companion and valuable acquisition to the colony, but as a business man he 
was not successful. 

Edmund Kirby,* son of Ephraim, was an officer in the Revolution, a 
member of the Order of Cincinnati, and afterwards judge of the Supreme 



* From Hough's History of Jefferson County. 



TOWN OF BROWNVILLE. 



291 



*Court of Connecticut. He was born at Litchfield, Conn., April 18, 1794, 
and entered the arinv in 18 12, as lieutenant, and served during the war upon 
the Northern and Western frontiers. From 1815 to 1820 he was stationed at 
Detroit, and in the latter year he j )ined Mijor-Gen. Jacob Brown at B'^o^vn- 
'ville, as an aid decamp. From 1821 to 1823 he discharged the duties of 
adjutant-general at Washington, and in 1824 was appointed to the pay depart- 
ment, and again took post at Brownville. From 1832 to 1840 he was engaged 
in the Black Hawk Creek and Seminole vvars, in which he was actively em- 
ployed, as well in the fulfillment of his duty as the exercise of humanity to 
the sick and wounded, for whom he voluntarily encountered many dangers. 
During the Mexican war he was chief of the pay department, and disbursed 
many millions of dollars. A volunteer aid to General Taylor at the storming 
of Monterey, and in like capacity to General Scott at Vera Cruz, Cerro 
Gordo, Contreras, Cherubusco, Chepultepec, and the Mexican capital, he 
was ever distinguished for courage, bravery, and devotion to his country's 
•cause. He died at Avon Springs, N. Y., August 20, 1849, and was buried 
in Brownville cemetery with military honors, where a granite monument has 
been erected to his memory. Major Kirby married a daughter of General 
Brown, and subsequently purchased his family estate in the village of Brown- 
ville. 

CHURCHES. 

The First Presbyterian Church, located at Brownville village, was organized 
March 18, 1818, with eight members, and Rev. Noah M. VVells wis the first 
pastor. Their church edifice is a wooden building, cost $2,000, and will 
comfortably seat 300 persons. The present value of church property is 
$2,000, including grounds, etc. Tne present membership is 56, and Rev. 
Alfred S. Vail is the pastor. The Sunday-school has a membership of six 
teachers and 60 scholars. 

St. Paul's Episcopal C/////r/; at Brownville was organized October 13, 1826. 
The first rector was William Linn Keese ; the first wardens were Thomas 
Y. How and Thomas Loomis. Asa Whitney, Tracy S. Knapp, Sylvester 
Reed, S. Brown, William S. Ely, Peleg Barchard, Edmund Kirby, and Hoel 
Lawrence were the first vestrymen. We have not the data for giving its 
present condition and officers. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church at Brownville village was organized 
August 3, 1S29, by Jijshua Heminway, H. W. Chapman, S. Knap, Isaac 
Meecham, Daniel Case, and William Lord, trustees, and at its organization 
"had a membership of 20. Rev. B. Phillips was the first settled pastor. Their 
house cf worship, a wooden structure, was built in 183 r, at a cost of $3,000. 
It will comfortably seat 300 persons, and is now valued, including grounds 
and other property, at $3,000. Rev. Charles E. Beebee is the present pas- 
tor. The Sunday-school has a membership of nine teachers and 50 scholars. 



292 TOWN OF BROWNVILLE. 



The Universalist Church at Brown ville village was organized in 1847, b)r 
Luther Rice, its first pastor. A church building was erected in 1847, costing 
about $2,000, with a seating capacity of 250. It has no present organiza- 
tion. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church, located at Dexter village, was organized in 
1847, with 50 members, and Rev. S. F. Danforth was the first pastor. Their 
first house of worship, a wooden structure, was built in 1874, at a cost of 
$2,000. It will seat 200 persons and is valued at $2,500. The present 
number of members is 60, under the pastoral charge of Rev. Mr. Beebee, of 
Brownville. The Sunday-school has six teachers and 50 scholars. 

The First Presbyterian Church of Dexter^ located at Dexter village, was 
organized July 2, 1839, at a public meeting held in a school-house, after a 
sermon by Rev. Marcus Smith, pastor of the Second Presbyterian Church in 
Watertown. At its organization it consisted of 18 members, and Rev. Dex- 
ter Clary was the first pastor. The house of worship, a brick structure, was 
built in 1S49, ^i^l comfortably seat 300 persons, and is valued, including 
grounds, at $3,000. The society is one of the strongest in the village of 
Dexter, and has 63 members. There are at present no regular services. The 
Sunday-school has a membership of 300. 

All Saints Protestant Episcopal Church, at Dexter village, was organized 
with 100 members by Rev. F. Rogers, the first rector, in 1839. The present 
house of worship, a wood structure, was built in 1839, at a cost of $2,000, 
about its present value. It will seat 250 persons. It has a congregation of 
about 400, and Rev. J. Winslow is the rector. 

The First Universalist Society, located at Dexter village, was organized by 
T. Broadbent, J. Maynard, Solon Stone, David Baker, Eleazer Parker, and 
F. W. Winn, the trustees of the society, September 5, 1841, and Rev. H. L. 
Hayward was the first pastor. Rev. Dr. Richard Fisk, of Watertown, now 
holds services on alternate Sundays. Their church edifice, a wooden struc- 
ture, was built in 1841, at an original cost of $1,500. It was repaired and 
painted in 1887, and is now valued at about $2,000. It will comfortably 
seat about 250 persons. The Sunday-school has a membership of 10 teach- 
ers and 40 scholars. 

The First Methodist Episcopal Church, of Pillar Point, was organized Jan- 
uary 9, 1836, the first trustees being Isaac Luther, John D. Ingerson, Smith 
Luther, Lyman Ackerman, and Stephen P. Brackett. It has been once or 
twice reorganized. Their house of worship will seat 250 persons and cost 
$2,000, about its present value. The present membership is 95, and Clem- 
ent E. Hoag is pastor. The Sunday-school has a membership of 25 teach- 
ers and 135 scholars. 

The Brownville Baptist Church* (at Perch River) was organized Septem- 
ber 7, 1806, and at an ecclesiastical council, held at the house of John W. 



Hough's History of Jefferson County. 



TOWN OF BROWNVILLE, 



293 



Collins, October 10, they were fellowshipped by delegates from Champion, 
Rutland, and Adams. It at first numbered 10 members. Elder Sardis Lit- 
tle was ordained over this church January 10, 1816, and preached many 
years. A society was legally organized April 25, 1825, at which Melvin Mof- 
fatt, Walter Cole, George Brown, Nathaniel Peck, and William Webb were 
chosen trustees. It was reorganized February 11, 1833. I" 1827 they 
erected a stone church at a cost of $2,800. Previous to 1812 they had built 
a log church, and in the war enclosed it with pickets, but the defense was 
never completed. Here the timid ones of the settlement were accustomed, in 
the early days of the war, to spend the night, enhancing each other's fears by 
relating tales of massacre, but these apprehensions were ridiculed by the more 
reflective, and were soon laid aside. A Baptist church was formed on Pillar 
Point in 1838, and the next year reported 30 members. 

A Union church building was built at Perch River in 185 1, at a cost of 
$800. It comfortably seats 400 persons, and is now valued, including grounds 
and other property, at $1,000. Elder Zimmerman was the first pastor. It 
is principally used by the Methodists, who have a society of 25 members un- 
der the pastoral charge of R. F. Whipple. The Sunday-school organization 
consists of six teachers and 40 scholars. 

FAMILY SKETCHES. 

Samuel Plumb, born in 1722, was a native of Stonington, Conn., where he died. He mar- 
ried Grace Babcock, also of Stoninpfton. Of their children, Nathaniel Plumb was born April 
4, 1760, and in 1802 emigrated to Brownville. where he remained until his death, in 1841, aged 
81 j'ears. He married Annie, da^ighter of Sanford and Anna (Babcock) Langworthy, of Con- 
necticut, and their children were 12, of whom George C. Plumb was born in Oneida County, 
whence he removed to this town in 1803, where he now resides, at the advanced age of 85 
years. He married, first, Betsey A. Moffitt, daughter of Melvin; and second, Mary, daughter 
of William and Persis (Moffitt) Robinson, with whom he is still living at Brownville village. 
Charles P. Plumb, son of Nathaniel, was born in Brownville, in 1811. He was married three 
times. His first wife was Levina S., daughter of Fleury Keith, who was at one time a mem- 
ber of the state legislature; his second marriage was with Elmira, daughter of Joel G. 
Stacey; and his third with Sarah, daughter of Waters Allen, of Martinsburg, Lewis County, 
N. Y. He had two children, viz.: Sanford, who served in Co. I, llOth N. ¥. Vols., and died at 
New Orleans in February, 1863, aged 23 years; and Pamelia A. (Mrs. J. P. Trapett), of San 
Francisco, Cal. 

John Cole, a native of