Full text of "Historical sketch of Stockton Springs"

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HISTORICAL SKETCH

STOCKTON SPRINGS

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FAUSTINA HIGHBORN

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HERBERT C. LIBBY

ILLUSTRATED

Waterville, Maine
Press of Central Maine Publishing Co.

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EDITORIAL NOTE

lOME three years ago I suggested to
Miss Hichborn that she prepare for
publication a series of articles which later
should comprise a short history of Stockton
Springs. This she undertook to do, and
several chapters of the present Sketch, now
however greatly enlarged upon and made
more completely accurate, were printed in
a county publication. Circumstances pre-
vented the completion of the series at that
time, and it was not until April of the
present year that the matter was again
taken up.

The Sketch which is now being dis-
tributed to subscribers is the result of Miss
Hichborn's patient and painstaking en-
deavor. It seems to me, after carefully
reviewing the contents of the book, that
between its covers she has gathered all
that is worth chronicling for permanent
keeping, while the material of which the
author has made use has been handled
so excellently and the matter arranged so
logically that the Sketch will prove as
interesting as any novel and as valuable as
all carefully written histories are.

To one unfamiliar with the work which
is necessary for the successful production
of even a small volume like this one,
it would perhaps seem inconceivable
that weeks and months should be required
in gathering the facts which make
the contents of value; yet, such is
true. And I believe had Miss Hichborn's
training been different — had she not been
one of a family whose members took
a just pride in the social progress and
commercial up-building of the town, — her
task would have been far more difficult of
accomplishment and less satisfactory in
results. The author has had opportunity
of witnessing the decline as well as the sud-
den growth of her native town, and, being
naturally a student of history and gifted
with an aptitude for gathering and retain-
ing facts, she has written a history
whose valuable contents might otherwise
have remained concealed in dusty-covered
volumes.

This Sketch, I have little doubt, will be
welcomed by the present and former resi-
dents of Stockton Springs; and its" cordial
reception will prove suitable reward to the
one whose faithful work has brought it
into being.

Waterville^ Me.^ September /, igo8.

CONTENTS

Page

Chapter I
Early Settlements - - ^

Chapter II
Shipbuilding and Ships - ^5

Chapter III
Stockton in the Civil War - 43

Chapter IV
Advent of the Railroad - 63

Chapter V
Merchants, Business Men, Lodges

and Clubs - - - 81

Chapter VI
Churches and Schools - io5

Chapter VII
The Present Stockton Springs - 119

EARLY SETTLEMENTS

OME are born great, some
achieve greatness, and some
have greatness thrust upon them."

Stockton, born to the great heritage of
an unexcelled harbor, achieving an enviable
position as a shipbuilding town in the hey-
day of wooden sailing crafts, now apparently
has future greatness thrust upon her by her
selection as a terminus of the great North-
ern Maine Seaport Railroad.

Well may her inhabitants feel grateful to
the astute promoters of that enterprise
whose keen bUvSiness foresight recognized
the unusual possibilities of her location and
harbor facilities. Railroad, piers, ware-
houses, lumber yards, etc., with the local
stations and consequent conveniences,
come as gratuitous blessings to the long
waiting town. The story of her future
awaits the pen of Time; we sketch her past
and present.

Few can realize that less than two hun-
dred years ago the "noble red man" of the
Tarratine tribe (now a mere remnant, liv-
ing as pensioners of the State, at Oldtown)
plyed the paddle of his light canoe along the
grand Penobscot, unvexed and undisturbed

HISTORICAL SKETCH

from source to mouth, making "a carrying
ground" of the narrow neck of land be-
tween what is now called Lowder's brook
and the mill pond, on their journeys to the
territory farther west.

Settlements had been made in this
section of the then almost unknown region;
and to aid General Samuel Waldo in open-
ing his vast land patent (including all ter-
ritory contiguous to the great river flowing
to the ocean,) to settlers, " Thomas Pow-
nal Esq, Captain General, and Governor-
in-Chief, in and over His Majesty's
Province of Massachusetts Bay in New
England, and vice Admiral of the
same etc. By virtue of the Power and
Authority, in and by His Majesty's Royal
Commission vested in Me, " sent a ' 'posse"
of a hundred and fifty persons, under Gen-
eral Waldo, escorted by a sloop-of-war, to
erect a fort on the peninsular, called by the
Indians, Wassaumkeag, at the mouth of
river Penobscot, as named by the Indians.

In 1759 this "posse," comprising the
first white settlers in the valley of the
Penobscot, arrived and began throwing up

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earthworks and felling logs for fort and
blockhouse. Those old embankments
are still in a good state of preservation,
at what is now known as Fort Point,
showing the plan of defense to have been
similar to the French fortress at Metz,
prominent in the Franco-Prussian war.

Fort Pownal being finished — ditches,
banks and block house being quickly com-
pleted by willing hands — General Waldo,
accompanied by a picked few, proceeded
up the river on an exploring expedition,
and when at the Falls above Bangor, as
now known, fell dead from apoplexy, his
remains being interred near Fort Pownal,
at Wassaumkeag, and subsequently carried
to Boston.

The command of Fort Pownal was as-
signed to Col. Goldthw.ait, who remained in
authority until the surrender to a British
fleet during the Revolution, in 1778, when
block houses and barracks were food for
the devouring flames. From prices charged
these first white inhabitants, in an old
"Wast Book," kept at the store within
the fort, now in the possession of the

HISTORICAL SKETCH

family of the late Hon. N. G. Hichborn,
the charge of being extortionate in the ex-
treme, has been made against Col. Goldth-
wait. The cost of living to those hardy
settlers seems enormous as compared with
modern necessities.

Some early historians claimed disloyalty
as the cause of the giving up of Fort Pow-
nal to the English, in the dark days of
the British yoke of taxation and oppression.
This assertion has been refuted — apparently
proven absolutely false — by a descendant,
Capt. Carter, U. S. A., of Washington,
D. C, after much time spent in research,
to remove the obloquy from the name of
his greatgrandfather. History, written by
a personal enemy, seldom deals fairly with
a prominent man.

One daughter of the Goldthwait family,
Mrs. Archibald, a widow, remained here
in the Joseph P. Martin family until her
death, the old "Wast Book" being in her
possession and given to Mr. Martin by
her. Recorded on its pages are the follow-
ing names: Jedidiah Prebble, Joshua
Treat, John Pierce, Isaac Clewly, John and

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Miles Staples, John Buck, Joshua Eustice,
Ebenezar Booden, Thomas Fletcher, Jere-
miah Thompson, Benjamin Shute, Daniel
Goodale, Richard Gary, Joseph Barrett,
Henry Black, Stephen Littlefield, Eldad
Heath, Nathaniel Cussens, Wm. Eaton,
John Avery, Nathan Pendleton, Nathan
Lancaster, Jacob Clifford, John Odam,
Alexander Clark, James Nichols, William
Crawford, Thomas Cooper, John Mitchell,
William Paterson, Daniel Lancaster, Oliver
Crary, Andrew Gillman, Zetham French
and Edward Smith.

These sturdy pioneers whose names ap-
pear upon the various pages of said old
volume (dated "Penobscot New England,
December ist, 1772 to 1777") were the
progenitors of the numerous families
bearing these names in Waldo county
and the State.

Under date of October 29, A. D. 1762,
the "Heirs of General Samuel Waldo, in
consideration of the sum of seven hundred
and twenty pounds by us received of
General Jedidiah Prebble, of Penobscot in
the county of Lincoln — the receipt of which
we hereby acknowledge.— By these Pres-

HISTORICAL SKETCH

entshave granted, bargained, sold, aliened,
released and conveyed to said Jedidiah
Prebble, his Heirs and Assigns, forever
two thousand and seven hundred acres of
land, in the Neck of Land whereon Fort
Pownal stands; in case said Neck itself
shall contain so many Acres; and if it shall
fall short of said Number of Acres, the
said defective Quantity to be laid out in
the Land next adjoining to said Neck, in
one square Body, in a place called Penob-
scot, in the county of Lincoln."

This is a good example of those indefi-
nite boundaries given in old colonial deeds,
which often occasioned long litigation in
subsequent years.

Little if any trouble was experienced by
these first white inhabitants in the Penob-
scot valley, from Indian treachery or cruel-
ty, notwithstanding the rather hair-raising
tales of scalping knives etc., told by some
vividly imaginative writers. The Tarra-
tines were less warlike than tribes in the
western portion of Maine. Baron de Cas-
tine, "the lone and proud" Frenchman,
who married "in Nature's temple green"
6

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the daughter of Madocawando, Chief of the
Tarratine tribe, once incited them to join
the French against the English, during the
great French and Indian war, 1754 to 1763.
At the outbreak of the American Reve-
lution the then Chief— "The blue-eyed
Orono" ^walked to Boston to offer the ser-
vices of his warriors to Gen. Washington,
who, thanking him for his loyalty to the
Continental Congress, declined to accept,
on the ground that Indians ought not to be
employed by either combatant — a decision
worthy the "Father of his Country."

In 1775 — the year pregnant with un-
realized blessings for America— Kben Grif-
fin brought his family from Stonington,
Connecticut, to share the hardships of those
striving to reduce the wilderness to civil-
ization. An unbroken forest, tracked by
wild beasts, with the wilder Indians upon
their trails, presented an uninviting oppor-
tunity for home-making. Yet these pio-
neers were equal to the mighty task.

A son, Nathan Griffin, married in 1790,
Elizabeth Treat, daughter of Lieut. Joshua
Treat, an officer of the expedition sent by

HISTORICAL SKETCH

Gov. Pownal, and from their family of ten
children, united with those of his brothers
living near, have descended those perpetu-
ating the Griffin name in various sections
of the country from Maine to California.

Samuel Stowers came from Chelsea,
Mass., in 1765, he being the ancestor of
the honored sons and daughters bearing
that name in this and other towns, from
Maine to Florida.

In February 1787, Penobscot was incor-
porated as a town; and in June 1789
Frankfort became an independent township,
embracing within its limits the present
towns of Winterport, Frankfort, Prospect,
Stockton Springs and a portion of Sears-
port. Over that large territory the families
scattered from the Fort Pownal settlement,
the tracts purchased, all beginning like
the old deed to John Pierce, (recently seen)
upon the river and running back, general-
ly one hundred and twenty acres, with very
indefinite outlines.

John Pierce purchavSed lot No. 9; Jona-
than Ivowder lots No. 11 and 12; William
Crawford lot No. 13; Jos"hua Kustice lot

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No. lo; Benjamin Shute lot No. 14; and
John Oliver, Henry Black, John Sweetser,
John Odom, Sr., and John Odom, Jr.,
other tracts of land in that vicinity. Joshua
'j^j-eat— the ancestor of all bearing that
name in Waldo County, bought a lot
there also.

When victory over the English caused a
new star— the American Republic— to ap-
pear in the galaxy of Nations, the founders
of the new government, inspired by ardent
hopes and growing national pride of in-
crease, sought broader fields of labor, many
coming from Boston into the Penobscot
region. Among these came Robert Hich-
born, a former officer in the Continental
army, whose commission bears date, "Nov.
25, 1776," as recorded in the "Revolution-
ary War Archives of Massachusetts. ' ' Be-
ing a large land holder in his native city,
Boston, he in 1791, purchased the peninsu-
lar, now known as Cape Jellison, erected a
large dwelling, built a line of packets to run
back and forth to Boston, sending by them
timber, fish and game to the city market.

In 1800 he died and was buried— the
first to sleep there— in the cemetery lot he

HISTORICAL SKETCH

had donated to the growing community
springing up around him.

Three of his sons, Paul Revere, Robert
Jr., and William, remained permanently
on acres belonging to the paternal hold-
ings, when the mother returned with the
other children to Boston. And from this
family nearly all bearing the name of
Hichborn, m Maine and Massachusetts,
are descended. Only one other branch —
cousins of this forefather — is known in
America. Henry Hichborn, the young-
est of the Robert Hichborn children re-
turned from Boston in 1811 and marrying
Desiah Griffin, reared his family near his
father's former home.

In 1792 Robert Hichborn brought from
Boston, Edward Kneeland, (to carry on
his farm upon his great estate) and from
that sturdy English progenitor has des-
cended those bearing that name in Maine.

Eater came the Dickey, Berry and Ellis
families whose progeny have, with contin-
ual additions, populated the town now
called Stockton Springs.

Clearings were made along the water

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frontage. Farms dotted the shore at
lengthened intervals, for several miles from
the parent settlement, at Fort Pownal; and,
in 1794, the southern part of Frankfort was
incorporated as the town of Prospect.

In 1805 James Rendell— spelled now, by
various branches, Randell, Randall, and
Rendall— came from Thomaston (the
settlement established by Gen. Knox, on
that portion of the great Waldo land grant,
inherited by his wife, a grand-daughter of
Gen. Samuel Waldo) the only convenience
of travel being a bridle path, indicated by
spotted trees. Soon his brother, William,
joined him, both making homes on Cape
Jellison, and rearing large families, from
whom have descended all born to that
name in Waldo County.

About the same time Job Small settled
in the Cape neighborhood, he being the
progenitor of all inheriting that family
name, in this vicinity. In 181 7 Josiah
Grant brought his family (then consisting
of wife and young daughter) to a perma-
nent home at the point of the Cape, form-
ing the east side of the harbor mouth.

HISTORICAL SKETCH

Near the same time his brother Samuel,
followed him from Penobscot, making his
home at Sandy Point. From these fore-
fathers the many bearing the Grant name,
in this locality, have descended. Thus
the population increased, farms multiply-
ing as children and grand children went
out to make new homes, until the present
site of the village of Stockton, was divided
into large, partially cleared homesteads.
Privations had been bravely endured; ob-
stacles grandly overcome! The plough of
Civilization had turned deep the furrow,
and the hand of Industry planted well the
seed for future harvest.

The position of Massachusetts, during
the war of 1812, in opposing the measures
of the President and Congress, was highly
displeasing to the patriotic citizens of
Maine, and doubtless influenced the vote
on the question of separation, later. Dur-
ing that conflict, Maine suffered greatly
along her entire seaboard, from pillage and
capture of towns by British cruisers.
The Penobscot river was ascended, cannon
balls thrown hither and yon along the

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banks; and to protect the inhabitants in
case of the landing of troops, the Militia
company, of the then town of Prospect,
under command of Capt. Henry Hichborn,
his commission bearing date, "Common-
wealth of Massachusetts, the fourth day of
May, 1 813," was called into service for
several weeks. Perhaps, owing to that
preparation for ''greeting them warmly"
no British soldiers were landed in the vi-
cinity.

Thoughout all these trials and hardships
Maine remained loyal to the general gov-
ernment, and condemned, in unmistakable
language, "the disloyal and rebellious
acts," of the governor and legislature of
Massachusetts. Thus the breach widened
between the "province of Maine" and the
parent State; and, chiefly through the un-
tiring exertions of Hon. William King of
Bath, the project of separation became an
accomplished fact in 18 19 — the constitu-
tion being adopted, and William King
elected governor the following year.
These proceedings were most gratifying to
the representative men of the large town of
Prospect.

HISTORICAL SKETCH

In 1827 the present county of Waldo
was organized; and to-day two towns, a
mountain and county perpetuate the name
of Gen. Samuel Waldo, who once owned
thousands and thousands of acres — virgin
forests, unexplored and unknown to white
men — in this section of Maine.

SHIPBUILDING AND SHIPS

(1) View of Penobscot River at Fort Point.

(2) Fort Point Cove.

(3) Penobscot River at Sandy Point.

(4) French's Beach, Sandy Point.

(5) Schooner " Old Polly" (100 years old) in Stockton Harbor.

Photographs by H. D. Hichborn

TATE and county privileges gave
new impetus to the infant shipbuild-
ing industry existing in the southern portion
of Prospect . Undoubtedly the initiative was
the packet building by Robert Hichborn,
between the years 1791 and 1800, — little
vessels whose names are unknown to the
present generation, excepting one, the
"Susan and Eliza," which was lost in a
terrible storm, vvhileon passage to Boston,
all on board — thirty-three persons, includ-
ing the two daughters of the owner, for
whom the schooner was named — perishing
with the sinking vessel. But one vestige
of the craft or passengers, was ever dis-
covered — a large trunk, having the initials,
S. H., in brass headed nails. That sad
memento was found on Cape Ann, by ,the
gentleman who was to have become the
husband of Susan Hichborn, on her arrival
in Boston.

The next attempt at building was a little
eighty-ton coasting sloop, by Wm. Griffin,
just before 1800. Next came the six
schooners built by Crawford Staples, be-
tween the years 1802 and 1819, he being
one of the largest property holders in the

HISTORICAL SKETCH

town, at that time. Then John Clifford,
another large land owner, launched six
small sloops and schooners, at lyowder
Brook, from 1806 to 1820. These were all
very small — rather primitive crafts; but
with the arrival in town of Sebra Crooker,^^
of Deer Isle, many improvements were in-
■ troduced in methods of construction and
beauty of design, he being a thorough me-
chanic and enthusiastic lover of his work.
In the years 1837 ^^ ^^39 ^^^ built three
vessels; but later devoted himself to the
duties of "Master-builder," in one and
another shipyard, reaching the age of
C^^ seventy-one before retiring from active
participation in his chosen employment,
having superintended the construction of
seventy-one vessels. At Sandy Point,
"Stowers and Staples" launched sixteen
medium sized vessels from 1842 to 1868;
and "John and Chas. Staples" built three
brigs, at the Mill Cove, between 1842 and
1846.

Navigation on the Penobscot demanded
some protection for mariners in the passage
around what had been called, from the

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location of old Fort Pownal, Fort Point;
and in response to petitions, the National
Government in 1835 established a light
house, which, having been replaced in
1857 by a 4th class light, the present
structure, still throws a beacon light to the
anxious pilot guiding his vessel into Penob-
scot river on passage to Bangor.

About 1815 Robert McGilvery, a native
of New Hampshire, brought his wife and
young son, William, to the new settlement
in what is now Stockton village. From
this forefather descended the many capable
sea captains sailing from Stockton and
Searsport, who have honored and perpetu-
ated the old Scotch name in Maine.

William French, in i>^i4, came from
New Hampshire to Sandy Point, purchas-
ing .what is called French's point, and
erecting a home, in which some descend-
ant has always lived, until the sale of the
property, in 1905, to Hearsy Retreat. His
progeny is scattered in various States of
our Union.

Col. Joseph Ames settled in town early
in 1800, being one of the board of select-

HISTORICAL SKETCH

men in 1829-1832-3-4-5-8 and 1840. He
was the father of a large progeny, ex-
tending now from Maine to Georgia.

In the spring of 1845 two brothers formed
a co-partnership, "C. S. and O. Fletcher"
for shipbuilding, at the Crooker yard,
(often called Fletcher yard, the property
being owned jointly by the three men) and
launched twenty vessels, including their
last, bark Kremelburg, in 1875.

Early in 1843, N. G. Hichborn erected a
store for general m'erchandise at the junc-
ture of the county roads — one running east
and west, between Belfast and Bucksport,
and the other north to Bangor — the angle
being long designated as "Hichborn's
Corner."

This business venture marks the begin-
ning of the village proper, only scattered
farms occupying the territory previously.

A man of marked energy, decision and
business ability — born upon the soil and
loving his town — Mr. Hichborn struggled
for its upbuilding in commercial, educa-
tional, moral and temperance matters.

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Taking the broad ground that sobriety
forms the bases upon which to rest all
other requisite qualities of good citizenship,
he, teaching by precept and example,
labored strenuously and untiringly, aided
heartily by such staunch advocates of total
abstinence, as S. I. Roberts, Robert Hich-
born, I. H. Griffin, Jerome Harris, John
Griffin and S. A. Rendell, with many
others, to establish a public sentiment,
which would forbid the sale of intoxicants
within the town limits; and Stockton be-
came "the banner temperance town of
Maine" — her citizens respected at home
and abroad, for their capability, alertness
and integrity.

In 1846 Mr. Hichborn added shipbuild-
ing to his mercantile business; and in 1850
associated with himself Giles C. Grant — an
excellent man, suited in all respects to be
a confidential companion — and gradually
relinquished the care of the store, to de-
vote himself to his growing shipping in-
terests and outside matters.

After the irreparable loss oi Mr. Grant,
through death, in the autumn 1853, he en-

HISTORICAL SKETCH

trusted his mercantile management to
Jonathan Clifford, until the latte^r going to
Minnesota to settle, in 1855 he took as a
partner, in trade, B. M. Roberts of Brooks,
remaining alone in his increasing ship-
building industry. Already the southern
portion of Prospect had established a post
office, "South Prospect,", with N. G.
Hichborn as post-master, and developed
radical differences of opinion from those
fostered in the upper section.

In 1852 Henry McGilvery, a successful
master mariner, commenced the building
of vessels in the ravine, just west of the
Crooker yard, launching ten "deep sea
sailers," during the five ensuing years.
In 1853 he resumed sea-going, moving
subsequently to Belfast, and again becom-
ing a builder of ships.

In 1856, chiefly from political antag-
onism — the south part of the town, heartily
espousing the principles of the then new
Republican party — a movement for the
division of Prospect was inaugurated; and,
at the September election, N. G. Hichborn
was selected ' 'to divide the town, ' ' through

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his influence as a member of the legisla-
ture. This was accomplished (in the face
of extreme opposition from the mother
township) in February 1857, the name
"Stockton" being given the newly incor-
porated portion, at the suggestion of Mr.
Hichborn, because of its location being
markedly similar to that of Stockton, Eng-
land — not, as has been said, in honor of
Commodore Stockton.

The following we find, from comparing
several lists, to have comprised the fleet
of merchant vessels, furnished by Stockton
during thirty years of her rapid growth and
commercial activity. Each was owned, in
part, by the builder and captain, almost in-
variably; and many small portions were
held by home people, thus bringing the
pecuniary returns upon the investment,
largely back to the town. Generally one
of the principal owners was some Boston or
New York man, who, not infrequently,
gave the name to the vessel, furnishing
"the colors" (as ships' flags are termed)
for the privilege.

The ship Jacob Badger claims the dis-
23

HISTORICAL SKETCH

tinction of being the largest vessel launched
in Stockton, with the Sontag as a close
second.

The first was sailed by Capt. Everett
Staples, a man of sterling character, rare
energy, foresight and knowledge of human
nature — a typical "Yankee Skipper,"
whom none could circumvent. Beginning
early, as "Master" of a small schooner, he
wrestled with Old Neptune's furies until
1889, when, after commanding the then
largest sailing vessel afloat — the great
four-masted ship, Frederic Billings — he
retired to his Stockton home, overlooking
Penobscot Bay, to spend, what proved to
be the last decade of his strenuous, honor-
able life. He had visited every maritime
country upon the globe; yet loved his own,
America, above all others.

The Sontag was commanded by Capt.
Ferdinand D. Harriman, one of the most
congenial, self made men, who have wrest-
ed success from hard beginnings and ac-
quired a fine position, in the maritime
world, after leaving the sea. His present
residence is in Washington, D. C,
24

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

"Build me straig-ht, O worthy Master,
vStaunch and strong, a goodly vessel,

That shall laugh at all disaster,
And with wave and whirlwind wrestle!"

This, in substance, was the familiar
order, given in Stockton from 1845 to 1875
inclusive — the days when in various ship-
yards,

"Covering- many a rood of ground,
Lay the timber piled around,"

which was to be fashioned into those sail-
ing crafts,

"Built for freight and yet for speed,"

such as the following:

Vessels Captains Year

(Builders— C. S. & O. Fletcher)
Schr. Matilda Peleg Staples 1845

" Madonna Emery Berry 1846

Brig James Crosby Charles Pendelton 1847
Schr. Kidder Wm. Fletcher i

Bark Edgar Peters Ellis i

Brig I. W. Havener Peleg Staples i

" H. P. Cushing John Cody 1850

Schr. Northern

Eagle Joshua Gross 1853

HISTORICAL SKETCH

Vessels Captains Year

Bark Sea Spirit N.G.Clifford 1854

Eventide J. A. Partridge 1854

SebraCrookerD. N. Berry 1855

C. S. Fletcher F. G. Clifford 1856

Nellie Merrill Peleg Staples 1859

McGilvery James Nichols 1863

Brig T. J. McGuire Henry Segar 1865

Schr. Daybreak James Cousens 1865

BarkCarrieE.IvongW. H. Park 1866

Schr. M.L.Crockett George Crockett 1868

Brig Sarah Gilmore Thomas Clifford 1 868

Bark Kremelburg A. Patterson 1875

(Builders — John and Chas. Staples)
Brig John Clifford Everett Staples 1846

(Builder — Amos Dickey)
Schr. Madeira Otis E. Harriman 1847

(Builder— N. G. Hichborn)

Brig California Wilson Hichborn 1846

Schr. Alvarado Isaac Eanpher 1847

Brig W. McGilvery Wm. Hichborn 1847

" P. R. Hichborn W. D. Colcord 1848

'' Sea Maid T. M. Hichborn 1848

" Benguela Robert Hichborn 1849

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

VKSSKI.S
Bark Evelyn

'' N.G.Hichborn

" S. I. Roberts
Brig Ivanzarote
Ship Loch Lama
Bark IClberta
Brig Leonard Berry
Ship Jacob Badger
Brig Crimea
Bark M. J. Colcord

" T. Cushing
Ship E. Sherman
Brig Faustina
Schr. Windward
Bark Garibaldi
Schr. Col. Eddy

" Donna Anna
Bark Sharpsburg
Schr. Dakota
Brig Stockton

" Caprera
Schr. Sylvan
Bark Lorena

" Alcyone

" Dirigo

'' Evanell

Captains Ykar.

J. F. Hichborn 1851

Wm. Rendeil 1852

Robert. Hichborn 1852

Otis L. Harriman 1853

Wilson Hichborn 1853

Wm. Hichborn 1854

Wm. Berry 1854

Everett Staples 1854

Robert Hichborn 1854

Josiah Colcord 1855

W. D. Colcord 1856

J. F. Hichborn 1856

Emery Berry 1857

L. M. Partridge i860

C. S. Rendeil i860

Chas. Blanchard i860

Stephen Ellis 1861

C. S. Rendeil 1862

Edward Clifford 1863

J. F. Hichborn 1863

Wm. Hichborn 1864

S. P. Blanchard 1865

Emery Berry 1865

James Partridge 1865

Wm. Hichborn 1868

W. D. Colcord 1868

HISTORICAL SKETCH

Ve;sse:i.s Captains Year

Brig Sparkling

Water Robert Hichborn

1869

" Salista Henry Partridge

1870

Schr. Selkirk Wm. Fletcher

1871

" J. C. Crafts James Wight

1872

" Lilly B.French Henry Allerton

1873

" Wardwell Arthur Blake

1873

Schr. Brigadier F. J. Norton

1873

" D.H.IngrahamJohn Ingraham

1874

"J. R. Bodwell F. A. Otis

1874

Bark Caprera C. S. Rendell

1874

(Builder — Henry McGilvery)

Brig Manzoni David G. Ames

1852

"J. Harris Emery Berry

1853

" J. W. Treat Hulburt Park

1853

" Joseph Treat W. H.'Park

1853

" AnnieD.Torrey Ralph Morse

1854

" Fannie O. Field Freeman Kelley

1854

' ' Orilla James Blanchard

1855

Bark John Griffin Peleg Griffin

1855

Schr. Daniel Boone John Heagan

1857

(Builder — Jason Harden)

Schr. T. M. Rich-

ardson Zetham Berry

1854

OF STOCKTON SP RINGS

Vessels Captains Year

(Builders— Rendell & Staples)
Bark Industry Paul Conno 1858

(Builder— Daniel Goodell)
Ship Henry B.

Wright Benj amine Park 1858

(Builders— Staples & Mudgett)

Schr. Henry Atkins Wm. Rendell 1847

Brig Monticello Jacob Clifford 1848

" Manzenillo Josiah Colcord 1849

(Builder— Henry S. Staples)

Bark Masonic Isaac I^anpher 1864

Brig Mariposa Crawford Staples 1866

Schr. Joseph Segar Alexander Segar 1866

'' Howard Ezra B. Grifhn 1867

" Eva Adell Wm. Eaton 1867

'' Lillias Joseph Grifhn 1869

" John C.Ivibby William Ubbey 1870

Bark Elmiranda Ciawford Staples 1874

(Builder— Willard Mudgett)
Bark Harvest Moon Wm. Berry 1859

" Harvest Home Andrew Dickey i860

(Builders— Mudgett & Ubbey)
Brig. J. H. Dilling-
ham G.W.Harrington 1861

HISTORICAL SKETCH

VksseIvS Captains Year

(Builders— Mudgett, Libbey & Griffin)

Bark Montana O. L. Harriman 1864

" Arizona Josiah Colcord 1864

" Helen AngierG. W. Staples 1865
Brig Arthur

Kggleso Bdwin Clifford 1865

Bark Henry Flitner Bently Park 1865

" American

Ivloyds Isaac Park 1866

Brig Nellie Clifford Bdwardl^ittlefield 1866

" Abbie Clifford Edwin Clifford 1867

Schr. Minnetta Isaac Dickey 1867

Brig Herman H. A. Hichborn 1868

Ship Sontag F. D. Herriman 1870

Schr. Emma Charles Crockett 1871

" Dione Fred Gilmore 1871

(Builder — Willard Mudgett)
Bark Willard Mud-
gett Isaac Dickey 1874
(Builder — Horace Staples)
Schr. Watler E.

Palmer Albert Staples 1873

(Builders — Stowers & Staples)

Schr. Diadem Jacob Black 1846

" Eliza Ann E. Kneeland i

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

Vessels Captains Year

Schr. Cardenas James Crocker 1848

" Milwaukee John Cousens 1849
Brig Forest State C. L. Stowers 1851

" George Harris William Porter 1852
Schr. Golden Eagle Josiah Staples 1852
Brig N. Stowers Samuel Stowers 1854

" Loch Lamond Alexander Black 1855

'• James Davis James Staples, Jr. 1855
Schr. Empress Frank French 1856

Bark Lizzie Rice B. F. Rice 1862

Brig Nigrita B. F. Rice 1863

" L. Staples C. L. Stowers 1865

Schr. Fannie Hall Elbridge Ginn 1867
Brig David Bugbee James Staples, Jr. 1868

(Builder — Robert French)
Schr. Coquimbo R. French 1852

(Builder — Thomas Runnells)
Schr. Lucy Ann T. Runnells 1854

(Builders— Colcord, Mudgett & Co )
Schr. Canema AlexanderErskinei857

Bark L.Willis Rich John L- Panno 1865
Schr. Magellan Robert Small 1866

Brig. E. H. Rich J. S. Hopkins 1868
Bark Lelia M.Long David G. Ames 1866

HISTORICAL SKETCH

Vessels Captains Year

Schr. David Bab-
cock Melvin E . Colcord 1 867

" Clara William Pierce 1867

Brig EmmaL. Hall W. T. Blanchard 1868

" Walter Smith Walter Smith 1868

(Builders — Colcord, Berry & Co.)
Brig Florence L.

Henderson A. Henderson 1869

Schr. Belle Crowell James Crowell 1869
Bark Isaac Hall Melvin E. Colcord 1869

" Bark Caribou 1870

Brig Hattie May James Nickerson 1870

(Builder — Alexander Black)
Brig Houston J. A. French 1865

" Brig Liberty Ralph Devereaux 1868

(Builder— H. V. J. French)
Schr. Lena Joel French 1865

(Builder— B. F. Rice)
Schr. Gen. Connor Willard Cousens 1866
" Guiding Star CharlesBlanchard 1867
" Clara E.

McCornville Delmont Fletcher 1868
" Sandy Point S.M.Grant 1868

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

Vessels Captain Year

Bark Sarah William Dennison 1870

(Builder— J. H. Sliute)
Schr. Almeda Isaac H. Shute 1867

In 1 86 1 "Mudgett and Libby" opened a
yard at Fort Point cove, near Lowder
Brook, launching two vessels before 1864,
when, the senior member retiring in favor
of his only son, the firm became "Mudgett,
Ubby and Grifhn," two of the latter name,
having associated themselves in the busi-
ness. This company carried on an exten-
sive mercantile and shipbuilding partner-
ship, sending out twelve large vessels, be-
fore the close of 1 87 1, their yard having
been transferred, several years previous to
the dissolution of the co-partnership, to
Mill Cove, where they erected a large lum-
ber mill, equipped with all modern ma-
chinery.

"Colcord, Mudgett & Co.," built at
their yard, established at Sandy Point,
(three miles from the village) in 1857, nine
vessels previous to 1868, when, on retire-
ment of the second member, the firm be-

HISTORICAL SKETCH

came "Colcord, Berry & Co." in 1869, and
launched five vessels, the last in 1870.

In 1864 another ship yard was opened at
the village by Henry Staples. He built
seven vessels — the last in 1870.

Capt. B. F. Rice built at Sandy Point,
five vessels, between 1866 and 1870.

In 1865 the shipbuilding interests of N.
G. Hichborn were placed in the hands of
"Master" John lyittlefield, who conducted
them during the four years that Mr. Hich-
born held the position of "State Treasur-
er," four vessels being sent from the ways,
within that time.

In many respects, the growth of Stock-
ton was unusual; no foreign element en-
tered into its composition. Shipbuilders
and owners, merchants, mechanics, sea
captains and sailors (those aspiring to pos-
itions on the "quarter deck") were from the
good American population of the district.
All were friends, neighbors and, largely,
relatives — an ideal sea-coast communit}^.

There the clip of axe and adz, and blow
upon blow of hammer and maul, year after

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

year, fashioned those staunch sea boats
(modeled by such "Master-builders" as
Sebra Crooker, John lyittlefield, Dayid
Wardwell, Albion Goodhue and Hiram
Crooker) which carried the Stars and
Stripes to all the commercial cities of the
world, bringing plenty, and European lux-
uries with Oriental curiosities, to the homes
of the rapidly growing town. Money was
freely distributed. All were busy, cheer-
ful and content.

Stockton's Master MAfeiNKRS
Captains David G.Ames, Joseph B.Ames,
Kdlon Ames, Charles W. Ames, John
Berry, lyconard Berry, Josiah Berry, Wil-
liam Berry, David N. Berry, Mossman Berry,
Emery Berry, Charles Berry, Daniel Berry,
Sewell Berry, Zethum Berry, James Berry,
Nicholas Berry, James Blanchard, A. Par-
ker Blanchard, S. Park Blanchard, Charles
Blanchard, Ezra Blanchard, Alexander
Black, Jacob Black, Sumner Black, Alfred
Black, Robert Clewley, William Clewley,
Elden Cheney, Hosea B. Costigan,
Thomas Clifford, Nathaniel G. Clifford,
Jackson A. Clifford, Frederic O. Clifford,

HISTORICAL SKETCH

Samuel Clifford, Jacob R. Clifford,
George Clifford, Edwin Clifford, Horace A.
Clifford, Fred B. Clifford, Wilbert S.
Clifford, Josiah Colcord, William D. Col-
cord, Melvin K. Colcord, Emery B. Col-
cord, Albert C. Colcord, Thomas Crockett,
Charles Crockett, George Crockett, Orrin
Crocker, Frank H. Cleaves, John Cousens,
Willard Cousens, James Cousens, Alden
Cousens, James Crocker, K. Walde-
mar Dahl, Albert Devereaux, Charles
Devereaux, Andrew Dickey, William
Dickey, Edward Dickey, Isaac Dickey,
Stephen Ellis, Peters Ellis, Beals Ellis,
Oscar Ellis, Alexander Erskins, William
Fletcher, Simeon Fletcher, George U.
Fletcher, Delmont Fletcher, William
French, Hartwell French, Josiah French,
John French, James Alfred French, Joseph
French, Everett French, Samuel French,
Robert French, Frank French, Joel French,
Peleg Griffin, Levi Griffin, Andrew D.
Griffin, Jesse Griffin, Warren F. Griffin,
Isaac H. Griffin, Horace M. Griffin, How-
ard Griffin, Brainard Griffin, Ezra B. Grif-
fin, Joseph Griffin, Alexander Griffin,
Alfred Gilmore, Frederic Gilmore, Jere-

A GROUP OF STOCKTON SPRINGS SEA CAPTAINS.
(1) Capt. F. A. Patterson. (4) The late Capt. Isaac Lanpher. (7) Capt. .T. F. Hichborn

(2) Capt. H. M. Griffin.

(3) The late Capt. Everett Staples.

(5) Capt. .Albert C. Colcord.

(6) Capt. L. M. Partridge.

(8) The latp Capt.C. S. Rendell

(9) Capt. Ralph Morse.

OF STOCKTON SPR INGS

miah Grant, Samuel M. Grant, Manley
Grant, Elbridge Ginn, Willard Ginn,
Robert Hanson, Loren Hanson, Robert
Hichborn, T. Merrill Hichborn, Wilson
Hicliborn, J. French Hichborn, Henry A.
Hichborn, William Hichborn, William D.
Hichborn, Adelbert Hichborn, George W.
Hichborn, Edmund Hichborn, John
Heagan, Otis ly. Harriman, Joseph Harri-
man, Rufus Harriman, Rufus N. Harri-
man, Hezekiah Harriman, Ferdinand D.
Harriman, Albert Harriman, Cyrus Harri-
man, Harry Harriman, Charles Harriman,
Joseph Harriman, 2nd, Albert Harriman,
2nd, George W. Harrington, Freeman
Kelley, William Kneeland, Wilson Knee-
land, Isaac Eanpher, Kdgar M. Eanpher,
John lyibbey, William Eibbey, Manley
Lancaster, Frank Marden, Truman Mar-
den, Jason Marden, Ralph Morse, Henry
McGilvery, William McDonald, Charles
C. Park, John L,. Panno, Daniel Panno,
Henry Albert Patterson, Klias Patterson,
Frank A. Patterson, Augustus Patterson,
Charles Parsons, John Partridge, Eewis
M. Partridge, James A. Partridge,
Benjamin Partridge, Reuben Partridge,

HISTORICAL SKETCH

Albert Partridge, Henry R. Partridge,
William H. Rogers, William Ren-
dell, Merrill Rendell, Benjamin Rendell,
Leonard Rendell, Charles S. Rendell,
Freeman McG. Rendell, John Rendell,
Wilton T. Rendell, Everett Staples, Hor-
ace Staples, Albert Staples, Josiah Staples,
I^eonord Staples, George W. Staples, Ira
B. Staples, Peleg Staples, Crawford
Staples, Willard Staples, Miles Staples,
Charles Staples, James Staples, Jr.,
lyoring Small, Robert Small, Alexander
Segar, Henry S. Segar, Samuel A. Stow-
ers, Clifford I^. Stowers, Brainard Stowers,
James P. Stowers, Klden Shute, Charles
Shute, Henry B. Shute, Isaac H. Shute,
Thomas P. Shute, Calvin W. Sprague
and Wilbert West.

During the fifties and sixties the pros-
perity continued; and many beautiful sou-
venirs, of long foreign voyages, rest to-day
in the homes of Stockton's deceased or
retired master mariners.

Through the gradual monopoly of the
European carrying trade by steamers, and
the failure of Congress to enact proper

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

maratime laws — the Western Congressmen
knowing nothing (perhaps caring less)
about such matters as interesting none of
their constituents — the financial aspect of
the handsome sailing ships after 1870 be-
came less and less attractive. Freights
were greatly reduced — owners and naviga-
tors finding small compensation, compara-
tively, in sailing the hitherto profitable
ships, barques, brigs and schooners.

In the autumn of 1874, Hon. N. G.
Hichborn, prominent as a shipbuilder,
(president of "The Maine Shipbuilding
Association" at the time of his decease) an
educator, (trustee of Westbrook Seminary,
Portland, and of the Universalist Publish-
ing House, Boston,) a temperance advocate
and an active Republican, succumbed to a
short, severe illness, leaving upon the
stocks a large vessel — number forty-three
upon his list of "deep-sea sailers" — to be
launched under another's supervision.
His death at fifty-six seemed most untime-
ly. "An irreparable loss to his town and
State," said a Searsport neighbor, at his
funeral, which was attended by a large
concourse of people.

HISTORICAL SKETCH

In the succeeding summer, 1875, the
last of Stockton's one hundred and eighty-
vessels (great and small) slipped from the
ways, "into Old Ocean's arms," and "a
quiet settled on all around, in the place of
the olden din."

Homes have been well kept up, and a
general air of sturdj^ New England thrift,
impresses the visitor; but many energetic
sons and daughters have wandered from
the hearthsides, to struggle amid the surg-
ing waves of commercial activity, for busi-
ness position and a competency. Thus the
town was being depopulated.

Few of the rising generation can remem-
ber the days when the elder Hichborns,
(seven of that name have sailed Stockton
ships) the older Staples captains, (seven of
these are upon the list) the Rendells, (five
of these are found) the Colcords. (two of
them) the Griffins, (six of the name) the
Pattersons, (three from one family) the
Herrimans, (four in number) tlie Berrys,
(four of them) the Cliffords, (three mem-
bers) the Ames brothers, (two of them)
Stephen Ellis, Elden Cheney, K. W.

(1) S. A. Rendell, Prominent Citizen, Retired

(2) Light Station at Fort Station

OF ST OCKTON SPRINGS

Dahl, W. H. Rogers, and the Par-
tridges (four of the latter name) command-
ed Stockton built and (largely owned) ves-
sels! Many of their erstwhile homes are
in the town; but, with rare exceptions,
they are sleeping

"Beneath the low, green tent,

Whose curtains never outward swing."

Others — younger in years — Captains
J. French Hichborn, Ralph Morse, Charles
C. Park, Horace Staples and Frank A.
Patterson remain to relate those experi-
ences, upon land and sea, known only to
those "who go down to the sea in ships."

A small number from the village, Cap-
tains M. E. Colcord, Edmund Hichborn,
Albert Colcord and Elden Shute still
"sail the seas over;" but their vessels are
not Stockton productions.

Tht sole representative today of those
once eagerly sought for Master workmen,
whose well supervised and faithfully' con-
structed vessels have resisted well the fierce
assaults of storm-lashed seas, is Master Al-
bion P. Goodhue, upon whom the weight
of four-score years rests lightly.

STOCKTON
CIVIL

IN THE
WAR

4| N the dark days of America's terrible
^U Civil War, Stockton gave ready sym-
pathy and aid to the cause of "Liberty and
Union." Each call from President Lin-
coln, found willing, brave souls to respond,
who "taking their lives in their hands"
went nobly forth to do and, if necessary,
die, "that this Government of the people,
by the people and for the people" might
not be disrupted. The towai's roll of honor
is large in proportion to the population.
The I. H. Griffin family furnished three
"brave boys in blue," two of whom now
"sleep the sleep that kno-ws no waking;"
and the same number-Vent out from the
Sebra Crooker home, two to give their
lives for the cause of "Truth and Free-
dom." The Lewis Mudgett family circle
sent two unfaltering sons to do battle
through the entire four years, one, Major
L. P. Mud^tt, being shot fatally, while
leading a charge at Mobile, after the sur-
render of Lee, news of which had not
reached that locality. The following are
the names of those patriotic volunteers, who
carried the name of Stockton to the fore-

HISTORICAL SKETCH

front of battle, and helped to win the glori-
ous victory of Appomatox: Simeon F.
Barrett, Riley W. Barrett, James F. Bar-
rett, Andrew D. Black, Franklin Berry,
James H. Berry, Nathan M. Berry,
Thomas S. Blanchard, Albert Crockett,
Leander Crockett, Orrin B. Crocker, Joel.. ^^ y t

Conno, Andrew J. Crooker, James S. ^^^^^^4 ^,
Crooker, Johnly. Crooker, FredO. Clifford,
Oscar Colson, William A. Carter, Daniel
L. Dickey, Dorendo Dickey, Adelbert
Dickey, Almond Dickey, Manley ly.
Dickey, Adelbert H. Dickey, Waldemar
Dahl, Enoch C. Dow, Samuel H. Fames,
Crawford Ellis, William F. Ellis, Mathew
W. Ellis, William W. Eaton, James C.
Frasier, Hiram Grant, Christopher C.
Grey, Hiram J. Grant, Clarandon W.
Grey, Sewall M. Grey, Elewellyn Good-
win, William Grifhn, Benjamin F. Griffin,
Frederick Griffin, Warren F. Griffin, Aus-
tin P. Griffin, Benjamin N. Griffin, James
S. Green, Charles A. Gilman, William
Gipson, Freeman Goodhue, Hiram C.
Harriman, Sewall B. Harriman, Philip S.
Holmes, Edmund Hudson, James Knee-
land, John F. Keen, Charles B. Libbey,

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

Blias D. Libbey, Robert Lambert, Daniel
R. Lamphier, Langworthy Lamphier,
Frank G. Lancaster, Lewis Parker Mud-
gett, William S. Mudgett, Joseph P. Mar-
tin, Whitefield Mills, Henry S. Moulton,
John Miller, Charles H. Morin, Charles
Mitchell, Jason W. Marden, Ezra B. Mar-
den, James E. Nickerson, Henry S. Over-
lock, Frank A. Patterson, Augustus Pat-
terson, James A. Philbrook, Levi A. Pen-
dleton, Charles H. Philbrook, Thomas F.
Phinney, John C. Phinney, Alvah Part-
ridge, William H. Rogers, Henry W.
Rendell, Freeman Rendell, John Reed,
Cassius C. Roberts, Edwin L. Roberts,
Orpheus Roberts, Christopher Rowe, Al-
bert Richardson, Joseph S. Staples, Robert
F. Staples, Peleg S. Staples, Andrew W.
Staples, Newton F. Staples, Merrill H.
Staples, Francis M. Staples, Edwin N.
Stowers, Henry Sparrow, Almore Stevens,
Charles M. Smith, William Seavey, Joel
L. Thomas, James M. Treat, Chandler
Webb, Chandler J. Webb, Charles C.
Ward, John A. Whitney.

Those enlisting in the U.S. Navy were
as follows: Samuel Clifford, Orrin Crook-

HISTORICAL SKETCH

er, Richard C. Dow, Mathew W. BHis,
Wilbert M. Ellis, Joseph Griffin, Charles
Johnson, Horace Littlefield, Edwin L.
Roberts, Sumner Sanborn, Robert Turner
and Simon Littlefield. All these gallant
defenders of the Nation's honor, enlisted
as privates and many poured out their life-
blood upon the battle field. Others
languished in Rebel prisons — starved and
ill-treated — until, when exchanged, they
were mere skeletons, unfit for military
service. Warren F. Griffin, captured at
I St Bull Run, was in Libby prison at Rich-
mond, Va., and in Gouldsboro, N. C,
''detension pen" for ten months, coming
home a wreck of his former self, and
l)eing always a sufferer from scurv^ey, con-
tracted in those vile places, a disease
which eventually caused his death.
Another Stockton man, Wilbert M. Ellis,
knew, from awful experience, the weight
of the iron heel of those cruel prison- keep-
ers of the Confederacy. He was confined
in Andersonville "Hell," where men were
systematically killed by starvation, abuse
and exposure to a broiling sun. His re-
citals of torture were shocking in the ex-

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

treme. They broke the strength of a
wonderfully strong physical organization,
and planted the seeds of the disease which
proved fatal eventually.

Many succumbed to fatal illnesses dur-
ing those long sieges, or fell exhausted on
the weary marches; but none murmured.
Some were promoted, after a time of faithful
service and evidence of adaptability to mil-
itary requirements. William S. Mudgett
passed though the several grades, until he
wore the shoulder-straps of a Colonel, and
was, at the close of the War, made military
Governor of Louisianna, and given a
brevet rank of General . His brother, lycwis
Parker Mudgett, after commanding a com-
pany, was promoted to Major and died from
a "sharp-shooter's" bulletin the forehead,
as he fearlessly led his regiment (the Col.
and Lt.Col. being unfit for duty )in a charge
upon the forts at Mobile. William Grifhn
for meritorious conduct and bravery, was
promoted to Capt. of his compan}^. Wil-
liam H. Rogers, after Bull Run, (the ist)
was transferred to the 6th Battery, Maine
Mounted Artillery, and commissioned
junior 2nd lyieut. That was in Jan. 1862;

HISTORICAL SKETCH

and with that "fighting Battery" he re-
mained until mustered out (after the close
of the war) in July 1865, having by suc-
cessive promotions become Capt. of that
"six-gun Battery of light artillery." "A
born soldier! ready for any emergency,"
his superior officer, Col. McGilvery, said
of him, when he posted the 6th Maine
Battery, under his (then ist lyieut.
Rogers) command, upon little Round Top,
to repell, at a most dangerous point, the
assaults of the infuriated Southern hosts.
All through those three eventful days
those Maine men stood undaunted, hurl-
ing continual leaden hail into those on-
rushing columns, until Victory waved the
glorious Star Spangled Banner over that
bloody battlefield of Gettysburg; and the
turning point in our Civil War was reached.
After this experience, Lieut. Rogers was
created Capt., "he having been in com-
mand, whenever a battle has been imminent,
owing to sickfiess of Capt. Dow," said the
petition of his men, and of Col. McGilvery,
to the Governor of Maine.

Hlias D. lyibby, a member of this 6th
Maine Battery, was several times promoted,

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

being ist lyieut. when mustered out at the
end of the conflict. Daniel I^. Dickey was
elected Capt. of his company, soon after
he joined the army. Robert H. Grey was
made ist Lieut, and Freeman Goodhue
held the same rank, at the end of his term
of enlistment. Cassius C. Roberts had a
Captain's commission; and many had been
made either Sergt. or Corpl., during their
years of service.

All honor to the soldiers, living or dead!

In those days of terrible suspense — when
the arrival of the mails was awaited with
trembling anxiety, lest a battle be reported,
with its consequent list of "killed, wound-
ed and taken prisoners" — the public-spirit-
ed ladies of Stockton organized themselves
into a "Soldiers' Aid Society," February
5, 1863.

From the record book of the secretary,
Mrs. N. G. Hichborn, we copy the follow-
ing:

Constitution.

"Act I — This organization shall be known

as the Stockton Branch, of the New Kng-

HISTORICAL SKETCH

land Women's Auxiliary Association, an
adjunct of the U. S. Sanitary Commission,
for the relief of the sick and wounded
soldiers in camp and hospital.

Act 2 — The officers of this society shall
consist of a President, Secretary, Treasur-
er, Soliciting and Purchasing Committee
and Committee of Managers.

Act 3 — The duty of the President shall
be to preserve order and preside at all bus-
iness meetings of the society.

The duty of the Secretary shall be to
keep a strict account of all doings of the
society, all funds received, all purchases
made, the contents of each box sent, and
to report quarterly to the N. B. Womans'
Auxiliary Association.

Act 4 — The duty of the Treasurer
shall be to receive and hold all mone^^ of
the society, pay all bills of the Purchasing
Committee — all settlements to be made
monthly — and report regularly to the Sec-
retary to be copied into the records.

Art 5 — The duty of the Soliciting and
Purchasing Committee shall be to solicit

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

funds, etc., and purchase all materials for
work.

The duty of the Committee of Managers
shall be to arrange for all special meetings,
levees, ect., and have a general super-
vision of all work.

Act 6 — This society shall hold its meet-
ings regularly, every Thursday afternoon,
in Cleaves Hall, kindly offered by Mr.
and Mrs. Stephen Cleaves.

Act 7 — It shall be the duty of all mem-
bers of this society to sign the Constitu-
tion, attend all meetings, and aid the work
in every possible way.

Names of members follow:

Mesdames Alexander Grifhn, Henry
McGilvery, Nancy Morton, James Part-
ridge, Ralph Morse, B. S. Berry, Peleg
Staples, Freeman Kelley, George B. Bates,
N. G. Hichborn, Bmery Berry, B. F.
Mcintosh, Mary A. Griffin, John Libbey,
David G. Ames, William Hichborn,
Samuel A. Rendell, Stephen Cleaves,
Warren F. Griffin, P. S. Haskell, Horace
Staples, Blias Patterson, C. S. Blanchard^

HISTORICAL SKETCH

Albion P. Goodhue, B. S. Crockett, Joseph
W. Thompson, Octavia Cheney, Henry A.
Hichborn, B. M. Roberts, Henry S.
Staples, Maria S. Farnham, I^ewis M.
Partridge, Richard Crocker, Lorena B.
Patterson, Charles S. Rendell, Isaac
lyanpher, Jane lyambert, DesiahG. Harris,
J. French Hichborn, Wilson Hichborn,
William D. Colcord, Everett Staples,
lycwis Snell, Josiah Colcord, Sulivan Pat-
terson, John lyibbey, Robert Hichborn,
G. M. Simmons, Jesse Griffin, I. H.
Griffin, T. M. Hichborn, Edward Lafolley;
Misses Susan Hichborn, Angie M. Rendell,
Kate Giltnan, Carrie Pattee, Sarah A.
Blanchard, Marietta Mudgett, Angeline T.
Griffin, Alina M. Staples, Faustina Hich-
born, Roxanna Cleaves, Almira Harriman,
Olivia McGilvery, Emma Hichborn, Mar-
tha E. Brown, Julia Staples, Mary Abbie
Farnham, Maria Griffin, lyizzie Staples,
Mary E. Grant.

At the first meeting of the society
the following officers were elected:

Mrs. Alexander Griffin, President; Mrs.
N. G. Hichborn, Secretary; Mrs. Henry

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

McGilvery and Mrs. Mary A. Griffin,
Purchasing and Soliciting Committee; Mrs.
Ralph Morse, Treasurer; Mrs. Freeman
Kelly, Mrs. Peleg Staples, Mrs. Everett
Staples, Mrs. Emery Berry, Mrs. Henry
McGilvery, Mrs. B. M. Roberts, Mrs.
Isaac lyanpher, Mrs. David G. Ames and
Mrs. James Partridge, Committee of Man-
agers.

"Feb. 12, 1862 — first regular meeting —
Commenced dressing-sacques, slippers,
drawers, shirts, etc. Thirty members
present."

Thus the record goes on. The making
of quilts, stockings, hospital slippers,
sheets and pillow slips being continued un-
til a sufficient quantity had been prepared
to fill a large dry-goods box, when it was
forwarded to the N. E. A. A., 22 Summer
St., Boston, Mass., from whence it was
sent, free of charge, to the Sanitary Com-
mission Rooms in Washington, D. C.

The first box left Stockton May i, 1863
and contained, as per the record book, the
following articles: "Ouilts 7, sheets 6,
shirts (flannel) 4, undershirts 4, drawers

HISTORICAL SKETCH

(pairs) 6, stockings (pairs) 20, towels 10,
handkerchiefs 24, dressing-gowns 4,
crackers (dozs.) 15, cornstarch (papers) 6,
preserved ginger (jars) 2, dried apples
(lbs.) 12, rice (lbs.) 12, irish moss (lbs.)
3, tea (lbs.) 3, sugar (lbs.) 16, honey
(jars) 3, condensed milk (cans) 4, guava
jelly (boxes) 4, cayenne pepper (boxes) 3,
ginger (lbs.) 2, composim (papers) 2, tam-
arinds (jars) 2, preserves (jars) 2, sardines
(boxes) 4, strawberry jelly (jars) 2, apple
jelly (glasses) 3, currant jelly (glass) i,
green apples (dozs.) 4, and 3 pairs hospital
slippers."

The acknowledgement of said box from
the N. K. Woman's Auxiliary Association
bears date May 4, 1863, and reads as fol-
lows:

"Mrs. Highborn,

Dear Madam: —
We have received a large box of most
acceptable articles from the Stockton
Branch, sent May ist. The contents are
admirably selected; and come most oppor-
tunely, when the need of such is likely to
be so great. Please present our cordial

(1) Middle Church Street.

(2) North Side Main Street.

(3) South Side Main Street.

(4) West Main Street.
Photographs by H. D. Hiehhorii

(5) Lower Church Street.

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

thanks to the ladies associated with you,
for their active benevolence, in co-operat-
ing with us, and assure them that the
goods sent by them., will be promptly for-
warded to Washington, and from there
sent where most needed.
Respectfully,
S. WiiviviAMS, Agent,

N. K. W. A. A."

The record shows that another box con-
taining similar articles, was forwarded
May 15th, and another July 8th, and a
fourth on July 29th. Another was sent
forward Nov. 21st, and the last for 1863,
was sent December 9th.

On Feb. 2, 1864, this ladies' association
sent to U. S. Sanitary Commission for the
relief of our sick or wounded soldiers,
$50.00, by hand of B. M. Roberts."

This receipt is pasted into the book of
records:

"B. M. RoBKRTvS, Esq.,
Dear Sir:—
Your letter and donation of fifty dollars,
from the Sanitary Society of Stockton, is
just received. Thanks to your liberal cit-

HISTORICAL SKETCH

izens for this substantial expression of pa-
triotism and humanity. May the "bless-
ing of him, who is ready to die, if neces-
sary," be upon the heads of the Stockton
donors.

Yours very truly,
W. H. HadIvKy, Agent,

U. S. Sanitary Commission."

Other boxes were sent to the front on
April 1 8, 1864, May 21st, Sept. 20th, and
on Oct. ist, a box was forwarded to the U.
S. A. Gen. Hospital at Augusta, Maine,
for which the following acknowledgement
is in the records:

"Madam: —

In behalf of the inmates of this U. S.
Hospital I gratefully thank you for the
box of necessary articles sent_to relief of
the "boys in blue."

Very respectfully,

J. S. TURNKR."

We find recorded the following:
"April 7, 1865. Sent to Maine Military
State Agency, vSoldiers' Relief Association,
through N. G. Hichborn, $100 for assist-

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

ing in relieving our brave soldiers." And
this acknowledgement is below.

"Mrs. Highborn,

Sec. I^adies' Aid Association,
Madam: —
We have Justin hand, April lo, 1865,
the sum of $100, forwarded by the hand of
Hon. N. G. Hichborn, for the benefit of
our suffering, noble soldiers.

It has been given to the agent who will
apply it to the most urgent needs, accord-
ing to his best judgment. Many thanks
for this generous gift, from the Stockton
Sanitary Aid Association.
Very respectfully,

ly. WaTvSon, Agent."

On April 29th, 1865, the last box of sup-
plies was sent to Washington.

A grand work had been done by the
women of this small town. $675.36 had
been received in cash, from personal con-
tributions, levees, lectures, etc. 25 quilts,
20 pillows, 99 sheets, 113 pillow cases, 72
shirts, 20 undershirts, 126 flannel under-
shirts, 25 pairs drawers, 90 pairs hose, 159

HISTORICAL SKETCH

towels, 227 handkerchiefs, 10 dressing
gowns, 2 linen coats, 40 pairs slippers, 70
enameled cushions, 14 bed sacks, 40 arm
slings, 232 bandages, 15 boxes lint, 86
pin balls, 35 lbs. crackers, 20 papers corn
starch, 28 lbs. dried apples, 40 lbs. rice,
5 lbs. Irish moss, 6 boxes figs, 35 lbs.
sugar, 3 jars honey, 5 cans condensed
milk, I barrel green apples, 15 jars apple
jelly, 10 jars current jelly, 5 boxes guava
jelly and 4 jars quince jelly had been sent
to the U. S. Sanitary Commission. Two
hundred dollars had been sent in money.
All had been recorded and acknowledged.

The present generation can gaze with
honorable pride upon this work of their
mothers and grandmothers.

The curse of the Confederate privateer
fell heavily upon the Stockton shipping.
Several captains lost their vessels; one,
Capt. Everett Staples, being compelled to
witness the sinking of a fine new barque,
(going down "with all sails set") scuttled
by rebel hands! A man of great force of
character, executive ability and unswerv-
ing loyalty, it is not to be supposed that
60

OF STOCKTO N SPRINGS

Capt. S. prayed for the success of the
Southern Confederacy, when the "Alina"
disappeared beneath the waves of the At-
lantic. By heredity he detested treason:
from environment, he then despised trait-
ors! Notwithstanding these drawbacks,
ship building increased in Stockton.

THE ADVENT OF THE
RAILROAD

(1) The late C. S. Fletcher, Ship Builder and Merchant. (5) The late Hon. N. 0. Hichborn, Ship Builder and

(2) The late Capt. Henry McGilvery. Ship Builder, G,^^];^^;,TinLtt,l^^hey &Gr\ffin

1^^"-^^- (7) Willard M. Griffin, Mudgett, Libbey & Griffin.

(3) The late Henry S. Staples, Merchant and Ship (g) Albion P. Goodhue, Retired Master Builder.

Builder. (9) Capt. A. D. Griffin, of Mudgett, Libbey & Griffin.

(4) The late Alvah Mudgett, Mudgett, Libbey & Griffin, (10) The late John Litchfield, Master Builder, 1860-72.

Ship Builders and Merchants. (11) Alexander Staples, Retired Citizen.

^ i' / ^ I HK fates lead the willing and
^^ drag the unwilling!" Thus in-
deed, it seems with Stocktonites.

With the grass and thistles growing in
her once humming shipyards, a gradual
realization of the full import to the town,
of the absolute extinction of shipbuilding
within her borders, forced itself upon her
inhabitants, as from deterioration, one after
another of her vessels were sold, to be con-
verted into barge or river coaster, and cap-
tains retired, engaged in less remunerative
business, moved away or assumed com-
mand of some of the new large ships (built
and owned elsewhere) engaged in the Pa-
cific or Indian Ocean carrying trade; her
mechanics found employment and subse-
quently settled in other towns or states,
followed by many young men, who had as-
pired to "quarter-deck" positions, in the
prosperous days of the sailing ship. Thus
much of the town's legitimate energy and
wealth-producing element drifted into other
communities, scattered from Maine to Cal-
ifornia. Slowly she lost prestige; yet her
citizens struggled onward — the pessimist

HISTORICAL SKETCH

(such always exist in limited numbers) in
desperation, the optimist in expectation of
better times coming.

The town's imperishable gems — the
wondrous beauty of her location, and un-
usual capacity of her easily accessible har-
bor — remained to enchant the visitor; and
year by year her transient population —
summer guests and boarders — increased;
but the three months of influx and renewed
activity, were soon followed by the lately
habitual quiet and well nigh hibernation
of her residents.

There seemed little hope of revivifica-
tion from incoming business investments,
since capitalists shun those localities desti-
tute of railroad conveniences.

Realizing the town's necessity for rail
communication with the outside centres of
business, Hon. N. G. Hichborn, after
strenuous efforts, (encountering persistent
opposition from the Maine Central railroad,
which determined to frustrate any plans
looking toward any competing line, in the
eastern section of the State) secured a
charter for the Penobscot Bay and River

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

railroad in 1869 and after actively opposing
the efforts of the Maine Central railroad to
obtain a charter for a so-called Webb's
Ledge railroad, for four years, before the
Legislature, (a mere dodge, on the part of
the Maine Central road, to prevent capital-
ists from investing in the already chartered
Penobscot Bay and River line) he saw the
organization of the railroad company, and
was himself unanimously elected President
of the fairly launched Penobscot Bay and
River Railroad Co., — the line to extend
from Bangor to Rockland, sixty miles,
and form the connecting link with the
Knox and Lincoln road, between the
European and North American, and the
Boston and Maine lines. In 1873 the
route was surveyed; and in the early
autumn of 1874, (the towns along the pro-
posed line having voted to take stock, and
various individuals having offered contri-
butions) the building was put under con-
tract, with New York capitalists, who
wrote Mr. Hichborn under the date of
November 21st, 1874, "We shall break
ground on the railroad before the New
Year." Alas! The day that Mr. Hich-
67

HISTORICAL SKETCH

born received that letter, he was seized
with the fatal illness, which robbed this
project of its moving force, in its Presi-
dent's death, November 30. Capt. William
McGilvery of Searsport was elected his
successor: but he died in March 1876.
P.J. Carleton of Rockport was elected by
the "Directors," as next President; but
nothing was attempted toward carrying to
completion the early plans; and eventually
the charter lapsed. Stockton mourned
this bitter disappointment, long and sin-
cerely, particularly after the absolute de-
cadence of ship building within her bound-
aries.

The expended money of prosperous years,
held some within established or inherited
homes, and in local trade; but the outlook
for future increase, either numerically or
financially, was not encouraging. Many
of the older citizens shook their heads and
prophesied a deserted village in the future,
while the younger looked about for new
fields of action.

In 1889 through the efforts of a summer
resident, who predicted great growth for
68

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

Stockton as a sanatarium and summer re-
sort, the name of the town was changed by
the lyCgislature to Stockton Springs — a
misnomer, as it then seemed to many, and
now appears to nearly the entire popula-
tion. The boom came not as promised,
the mineral spring water proving non-pay-
ing in the market and the bottling enter-
prise, consequently, short lived, to the dis-
appointment of some financially interested
citizens.

"Things at the worst will cease, or else
climb upward to what they were before."

In December of 1903, a Boston man,
John P. Reynolds, appeared in Stockton
(no native inhabitant uses "Springs" in
conversation) and quietly inspected the
situation of the scenery, — "the rising world
of waters dark and deep" — as viewed from
the eminence, Fletcher Hill, in the rear of the
village, ascertained approximate prices of
shore frontage lots, vaguely hinted at possi-
ble future purchase and returned to his
home. Soon his agents in Stockton —
Messrs. Ames and Merrithew — were, as si-
lently as possible, bonding all the small farms

HISTORICAL SKETCH

upon the harbor side of Cape Jellison and
upon the Park shore, for excellent prices,
the bonds holding until April. This ac-
complished, the Boston gentleman re-ap-
peared in town, offering immediate
purchase and payment of all bonded prop-
erty; but requesting local reporters not to
mention his transactions.

When all had been sold to John P. Rey-
nolds, and cash payment made in every
instance, (the sum expended reaching one
hundred and twenty thousand dollars)
people began to wonder at the large sale,
and speculate as to the reasons for such an
outlay.

All the Yankee propensity for "guess-
ing" was exercised to the fullest extent;
and various rumors — rendezvous for New
York yacht club, big summer colony, etc.
— filled the ears of the rather astonished
dwellers upon the territory.

Gradually the idea of an establishment
of a second Bar Harbor, upon the site,
crystalized into a general belief, the vivid-
ly imaginative, beholding in mental pic-
70

OF S TOCKTON SPRINGS

tures, the elegant cottages of the million-
aires adorning the shore lines of the
beautiful land sheltered harbor.

Such a transformation was not a pleasing
contemplation to a large majority of Stock-
tonites.

The independence of the dauntless sail-
or, the suggestiveness of the able business
man and the accuracy of the efficient
mechanic mingle in the blood of these
people. They bend no servile knee. They
face the world bravely, feeling equal to the
mighty task of living — acting well their
separate parts in the great drama of hu-
man existence; but desire no plutocratic
neighbors.

Cicero said: 'T shall always consider
the best guesser the best prophet:" he
would have found but false prophets in
Stockton that year.

Suddenly it was announced that John P.
Reynolds was an agent for a Maine corpor-
ation, in the buying of lands in town; that
a railroad, a continuation of the remark-
ably profitable Bangor & Aroostook line,

HISTORICAL SKETCH

was the object in view, in the purchase of
Stockton and Searsport real estate; that a
charter was to be asked for at once, and
Stockton made a large terminal, with great
piers for the accommodation of incoming
and outgoing foreign and domestic trade.
This was a surprise indeed! None could
fully comprehend the gigantic scheme.
"Ye immortal gods! where in the world
are we?" was the unexpressed feeling of
men, women and children. All this with-
out any expense to town or individual!
Where could similar good fortune be
found?

In the summer, a delay in obtaining the
charter prevented any forward movement
in the promised survey: and the doubting
said: "I told you so! There will never
be a railroad through this town in our
time." But, happily for vStockton, almost
as soon as these opinions were ventilated,
came the message from headquarters, that
the hearing of the petition from the B. &
A. for a charter to build a railroad from
LfO. Grange to Stockton Springs would
take place Nov. 9th, 1904, at Bangor,
72

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

The railroad commissioners voted unani-
mously in favor of granting said petition;
and Dec. 15th, the chief engineer of the
B. & A., Mr. Moses Burpee, arrived in
town to inspect the harbor facilities and
select pier sites.

In January, President Cram of the B. &
A., with twenty associates, bought Sears
Island; and the report circulated that all
works, intended for Cape Jellison, would
be located on the Island instead. How-
ever, on January 30th, actual labor began
on the wharf on the Cape, the first crew of
workmen being augmented as fast as
boarding houses could be supplied. Feb-
ruary 1 2th, an ice breaker arrived
(the winter being exceptionally cold) to
cut the passage necessary to land-
ing materials needed in the construc-
tion of the piers. On February 23rd, 1905,
the first pile was driven into the mud bot-
tom of the waters, washing the west side of
Cape Jellison, and the future assured!

Soon the Italian gangs began to work
on the road-bed, blasting the frozen earth
with dynamite, day after day. With ad-

HISTORICAL SKETCH

vancing spring, more and more of the
little dark-skinned laborers arrived in
town, their chattering about^ the village
streets and at Sandy Point, sounding odd
enough to young American ears, although
familiar to our older generation of sea
captains.

The last of February, the second floor of
Capt. M. H. Colcord's building, on East
Main street, was leased by Chief Engineer,
Moses Burpee, and early in March his corps
of assistants arrived to commence the sum-
mer's work of draughting, formulating de-
signs, etc.

Eate in the same month the big steam
shovel was beginning operations on Cape
Jellison; and, on the historic April 19th,
the first locomotive to stand on Stockton
soil, was run from the deck of the steamer
Reliance, under its own steam, onto the
section of the wharf, alread}^ completed.
Eater another engine arrived to haul the
construction train along the advancing
track.

May 3d, the first cargo of heavy steel
rails arrived at the "railroad wharf."

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

All the summer and autumn work was
pushed rapidly forward. In November,
1905, the Northern Maine Seaport R. R.
opened for passenger traffic and general
business; and Mr. G. M. Houghton of
Bangor was located in town, as the General
Manager of the railroad and its manifold
interests. He remained until December
31st, 1906, when he was called to become
the General Passenger Traffic Manager of
the Bangor & Aroostook railroad with
office in Bangor; and was succeeded, in
Stockton, by Mr. Charles Calkin of Port-
land, wdio still conducts the business affairs
of the various railroad matters.

Cape Jellison has mammoth piers.
The long sixteen-hundred foot wharf and
another fifteen hundred, and a third eleven
hundred feet in length are completed. An
artesian well (one hundred and fifty-eight
feet in depth) furnishing all needed water
for engines, etc., has been drilled, aside
from cutting through Speed's point, level-
ing road bed to Bran's point, and to the
mill pond, on the Cape side.

On the village side of the mill bridge
75

HISTORICAL SKETCH

work in grading the track bed went stead-
ily forward. The "Y" is in the Panno
field. An artesian well has been bored,
north of the Panno residence, for providing
water for filling the big tank constructed
there.

In the Denslow (formerly Dickey) field,
thirty acres have been purchased by the
railroad corporation, and there a yard,
containing six sidetracks, has been com-
pleted.

In the village a cut, twelve feet deep,
across Middle street, and into the adjac-
ent banks, has been made; and the em-
bankment, through and over shipyard hol-
low, has changed the appearance of that
locality greatl}^. Beyond School street
the Gilmore guUeys have been partially
filled and the balance bridged.

The question of the locality of the depot
— long undecided — was settled June 14,
by the announcement that this village con-
venience would be upon the land of Capt.
Melvin K. Colcord, to be accommodated
by a road which said gentleman had re-
cently had surveyed through to the shore

(1) Piers No. 1 and 2. KiOO and 1500 feet long.
(3) Potato Wharf and Conveyor, Cape Jellison.
Wharf 1100 feet long.

(2) Showing Lumber Business on Cape Jellison Piers.
(!) Sb.ipi>ing in the Docks at Stockton, Cape Jellison.
(5) Paper House, Cape Jellison Pier.

Photographs by H. D. Hichborn

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

— a continuation of the short street, ex-
tending from East Main street only to the
S. H. West place. That street has
been named Railroad Avenue. Cutting
that new street at right angles, another
runs through to Mill street, from
the station site. Two others have been
opened through from School street to Rail-
road Ave . This energetic and public-spirit-
ed citizen, Capt. Colcord, being determined
to help the good work along, and provide
available house lots and easy access to all
localities. A broad street, Wellsley Ave-
nue, has been opened from East Main
street, running north, through the former
field of Mr. Edward N. Harriman, slant-
ing enough to enter Church street above
the so-called Stephen Ellis place.

The solidity and great size of the piers
at Cape Jellison indicated the vast expect-
ed traffic of the future. The construction
of the entire road is of the heaviest and
most modern type — the rails weighing
much above the ordinary steel rail — the
trains, loaded to the limit, passing over
without a tremor.

HISTORICAL SKETCH

A trip over this railroad — through La-
grange, Bradford, Hudson, Glenburg,
North Bangor, Northern Maine Junction,
Hampden, Winterport, Frankfort, Pros-
pect, Sandy Point and Stockton — furnishes
a grand variety of scenery — mountains,
plain, civilization^ wilderness, lake and
sea — and gives unequaled conveniences to
all the inhabitants of the above towns.
The distance is one hundred and fifty-six
miles of new trackage. The connection
with the Bangor & Aroostook carries pas-
sengers through Northern Maine and into
the Canadian territory, by transferring to
the Canadian Pacific Railroad. At the
Northern Maine Junction close connection
with the Maine Central Railroad takes all
travelers to Portland and Boston without
delay.

The great exportation from the famous
Aroostook county — the so-called "garden
of Maine," — will keep many trains busy,
that output increasing steadily; and, if to
this, the convenience, of an all-the-year-
round open port and a shorter haul, to the
Atlantic ocean, induces the Canadian Pa-
cific railroad to send its large quantities of

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

freight to this seaport, Stockton, for ship-
ment, the business at this terminus will be
enormous. Time will publish the statis-
tics.

MERCHANTS, BUSINESS MEN,
LODGES AND CLUBS

^"?r HE first to engage in trade within
^^ the present limits of Stockton Springs
were N. G. Hichborn, J. H. Griffin, Giles
C. Grant, Zytham Shute, John Griffin,
Amos Dickey and C. S. &. O. Fletcher.

I^ater Mr. Shute gave up business, Mr.
Dickey moved to California, Mr. Griffin
became associated with N. G. Hichborn,
and soon died.

In the palmy days of shipbuilding the
mercantile affairs of the village were con-
ducted by such prominent citizens as John
Griffin & Son, Willard M. Griffin, Roberts
& Hichborn, (B. M. Roberts and N. G.
Hichborn,) C. S. & Oliver Fletcher,
Henry McGilvery, Henry S. Staples,
Mudgett, Libbey & Griffin, (Alvah Mud-
gett, George W. Libbey, Andrew D.
Griffin and Willard M. Griffin — the senior
members, Messrs. John Griffin and Willard
Mudgett, having retired,) Colcord &
Mudgett (Messrs. Josiah Colcord and John
Mudgett) and later (at Sandy Point) by
Colcord, Berry & Co. (Mr. Mudgett with-
drew from the firm, and Messrs. Nicholas
Berry, Cassius C. Roberts and Fred Fow-

HISTORICAL SKETCH

ler joined the co-partnership), Alonzo D.
Ames, Blias D. Libbey, John M. Ames,
Mrs. Jane lyambert & Son, (J. G. lyam-
bert) Tlie Misses Griffin (Adella and Liz-
zie), Mrs. Klmira Harriman; and Stowers
& Staples (Messrs. Nathaniel Stowers and
Levi Staples,) the latter at Sandy Point.

Only J. G. Lambert is to-day at the old
stand. In i860 S. A. RendeJl bought the
"Hardware, Tin and Stove" business of
Alonzo D. Ames (the latter going to Water-
ville) and has increased and continued
that, until in 1906 (deciding to retire) he
disposed of the business to his successors,
tw^o young men, Albion Goodhue of Boston
and L. Albert Gardner, lately of Newton-
ville, Mass.

The fev^ younger members of those firms
of other days, who survive, are scattered
far beyond the territory of Maine. Andrew
D. Griffin resides at La Jola, California;
Willard M. Griffin has become a success-
ful "Raisin and Fruif'dealer, in San Fran-
cisco, George W. Libbey has a large con-
tracting and house-building business in

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

Minneapolis, Minn.; Cassius C. Roberts is
connected with the Chicago, 111., post
ofhce, and Klias D. Libbey has revived his
military knowledge in his adopted State,
being Adj. Gen. of Minnesota.

The merchants of the present day are
J. G. Lambert — Dry and Fancy Goods; W.
J. Creamer — Dry Goods, Millinery and
Ladies' Suits; J. M. Ames Co. — Groceries,
Provisions and Crockery; Goodhue & Co.
— Hardware, Stoves, Tinware and Furni-
ture; M. R. LaFurley — Groceries and Pro-
Visions; B. B. Sanborn — Clothing, Gents'
Furnishing Goods, Boots and Shoes; Frank
Young — Meat Market and Vegetables;
Walter F. Trundy — Fancy Goods and No-
tions; and B. F. Cox, Jeweller.

At Sandy Point Frank S. Harriman has
a general store, and Melvin H. Grant is
also in trade there.

Mr. Herbert L. Hopkins is a hustling,
general-business man at the village, deal-
ing in hay, wood, coal and various other
things. In 1906 he built a large block
near the foot of Church street, which con-

HISTORICAL SKETCH

tains the present post office, (the finest in
Waldo county, it is claimed,) the Stock-
ton Springs Trust Co., many offices, in-
cluding the Telephone rooms, and two
living tenements, the last on the third floor.
Town water, steam heat and fire escapes
render this a desirable building in which
to locate, either for business or a home.

One young townsman, very active in
mercantile pursuits, Mr. Hlvin F. Staples,
died in the height of his business career in
1905 — a loss to the community of workers.
Messrs. Willard M. Berry and Edward H.
Doyle conduct a large "Livery Stable" at
the stable connected with the hotel, "The
Stockton."

Mr. John K. Lancaster is proprietor of
an abundantly equipped "Livery Stable,"
on his own grounds — Hast Main street.

Mr. John McLaughlin runs two com-
fortable carriages, as "ten-cent" teams —
public conveyances for the accommodation
of the village people.

K. M: Lancaster & Sons (Josiah L. and
Pierce D.) are "Contracting House Build-
86

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

ers and Architects" in town, who are
usually busy.

George Weymouth is a "Contractor and
Builder," located on Depot Ave.

Mr. A. A. Beaton is the only attorney
in town. He came from Rockland in
1907. His office is in Hopkins' Block,
Church street.

For all telephone conveniences outside
the homes — long or short distance — the
citizens go to the main office in Hopkins
Block, managed by H. I^. Hopkins and
H. R. Hichborn.

The Telegraph Office is conducted by
Mrs. Addie S. Dickey, who has long
served most acceptably at that post.

In March, 1905, the Stockton Springs
Trust Co. was incorporated. In the spring
of 1907 it was organized, with the follow-
ing officers: H. R. Hichborn, President;
ly. P. Lawton, Cashier. Executive Board:
H. R. Hichborn, A. M. Ames, S. B.
Merrithew, H. L. Hopkins and Edwin G.
Merrill. Here complete facilities are of-

HISTORICAL SKETCH

fered for handling all banking business.
In the Savings Bank department it paj^s
four per cent, interest. This is the first in-
stitution of its kind in town. A Savings
Bank was established in the olden days of
prosperity (in 1868) but the charter was
relinquished in 1876. This was located
in one portion of the office of Hon. N. G.
Hichborn — there being no other available
room. Capt. Alexander Black was Presi-
dent, with Capt. lycwis M. Partridge as
Treasurer.

Mr. J. H. Ward well is the village news
dealer. His rooms are in a section of B.
B. Sanborn's building, on Bast Main street.
He supplies all leading daily papers, peri-
odicals and books, ordering whatever may
be wanted outside his stock.

The only hotel in town was opened in
1849, by Stephen Cleaves, who was for
many years the proprietor of the "Cleaves
House" and livery stable. A frugal, hon-
est and obliging landlord, a good citizen
and neighbor, he accumulated a competen-
cy, in a strictly temperance "public
house." The same hostelry, remodeled

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

and owned by a recent purchaser, F. W.
Collins, still serves the traveler, being ac-
ceptably managed by the present leasees,
Worcester Bros.

Pownal Lodge, F. & A. M., has been in
a flourishing condition for many years,
having been established in 1863. The
present Worthy Master, Albert M. Ames,
is a 32-degree Mason.

This lyodge was named in honor of the
Colonial Governor, Thomas Pownal, of
Massachusetts Bay Colony, under whose
auspices the first settlement was made in the
Penobscot valley — at Fort Point. He was
a person of marked literary ability — the
author of many books, several pertaining
to Colonial Institutions — and the first
Englishman to announce, in 1777,
"England's sovereignty over America is
gone forever." He was the first member of
Parliament to bring in a bill for "Peace
with the Colonies." He had opposed par-
liamentary taxation of the Colonies, from
the beginning of the discussion of the pro-
ject. He contended that Americans had
equal constitutional rights with the Eng-
lish, in England, while Colonists. "He is

HISTORICAL SKETCH

renowned for being the first Englishman, of
education and influence, who devoted his
entire life to the amelioration of American
political conditions. ' ' He was a close friend
of Benjamin Franklin. By some, Pownal
is thought to have been "Junius."

Thus Stockton's Masonic Lodge perpet-
uates the name of one of the staunchest
friends of America, in those early days,
when such unflinching support caused al-
most ostracism in England.

The auxiliary Masonic body, Bethany
Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, was
constituted in 1901, and has been very
prosperous. The present Worthy Matron
is Mrs. Marietta D. Fletcher, and Mr. A.
A. Beaton — a 32-degree Mason, — holds
the present post of Worthy Patron.

The Current Events Club— a ladies' lit-
erary association — was organized in 1895.
This belongs to the "State Federation of
Women's Clubs;" and, though not large,
has continued in active operation, holding
its meetings fortnightly through nine
months of the year. The President is now
90

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

Mrs. Kstelle B. Crosby; Vice President,
Miss Leora Partridge; and Secretary, Miss
Mary Hichborn.

The Ladies' x\id Society, instituted in
connection with the Universalist Church,
in 1904, holds regular sewing circles each
fortnight; arranges a series of socials, en-
tertainments and suppers each winter; and
has a "Sale" of fancy-work, aprons, etc.,
during each summer. The ladies are en-
thusiastic, untiring workers.

In 1905 the Young Ladies' Guild was
organized among the unmarried portion of
the parish of the Universalist church; and
earnestly and assiduously those willing
workers have arranged "Sales^ ' ' "Socials' '
and other means of raising money, for
various parish purposes. ,

The commission of Justice of the Peace
has long been held by S. A. Rendell and
J. G. Lambert, and recently F. L. Mars-
ton and S. B. Merrithew have been added
to that number, with the latter's partner,
A. M. Ames, as a Notary Public.

Capt. Lewis M. Partridge for years acted
91

HISTORICAL SKETCH

as a legal advisor, after retiring from sea-
going; but has given up active business
because of ill health.

In March, 1905, a charter was obtained
for a Water Supply Company for the town.
Various sources were examined — water an-
alyzed, distances calculated, etc. — and a
decision reached in favor of Boyd's Pond,
(sometimes called Half Moon Pond) situ-
ated in Frankfort and North Searsport,
which was promptly secured, the water
being pure (furnished from springs in the
bottom) and the elevation sufficient to
bring the water, by force of gravity, into the
buildings of the whole town, excepting
upon the very high hills.

In 1906 the company was organized and
C. N. Taylor of Wellesley, Mass., employ-
ed to furnish all necessary equipments.
Soon various Italian bands were digging
trenches and laying big ''mains" to the
town line, and the reservoir, located on
Church street, near the John Merrithew
house. lyater "mains'' were carried
through each village street and on to Cape
Jellison, to the big piers of the N. M.
S. R. R. Then came the putting in of
92

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

pipes to the residences and stores — the
water being abundant, clear and entirely
soft — until nearly all the houses are sup-
plied — in 1908 — with "town water," at
reasonable rates. Mr, Frank H. Jackson
is the agent for the Company and also the
Chief of the town "Fire Department." A
fine hose carriage, fitted with excellent
linen hose has been purchased and a
new building, for housing these fire fight-
ing apparatus, erected on the back of the
Universalist Church lot, on Church street.

Insurance rates have dropped very
appreciably, since the providing of many
hydrants along the streets, brings rushing
water — sufficient to tear shingles from
the roofs, when given full headway
— when the hose is coupled to the open-
ings. This protection creates a feeling of
security among property holders. In each
trial, the means have proved adequate to
the demand.

Early in 1905, Mr. Frank L. Marston —
a competent Civil Engineer and Surveyor
— came from Bangor and opened an office
in town. He has been generally busy.

HISTORICAL SKETCH

He is now occupying rooms in the Sprague
Block, corner Main and Church streets.

In 1907, a Gentleman's Club — The
Wassaumkeag — was organized, with agood-
sized membership, including many leading
citizens of the village. This association
leases rooms — a pool, reading, and general
assembly, with coat room — in Sprague
Block; and, through the winter, fortnight-
ly "I^adies' Nights" have been observed,
forming a pleasing social feature in the
village life. Dr. C. E. Britto is President.
No gambling, liquor drinking or profanity
is permitted within the rooms.

Capt. Charles E. Park has well appoint-
ed undertaking rooms, furnishing all mod-
ern necessities, embalming included, for
such occasions.

Dr. G. A. Stevens is proprietor of the
drug store — the only one in town — situated
on the ground floor of Masonic Block
— a large building erected in 1884 by the
Masonic fraternity. The third floor is the
Lodge room — with ante-rooms — and half
the second floor is used as a banquet
hall and necessary small kitchen. Dr.

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

Baker — a dentist from Winterport, who is
in town each Tuesday — occupies two
rooms on the front of the second floor in
this building.

Mr. Levi S. Grifhn has a "barber shop"
in a corner room on the first floor in Ma-
sonic Block. Others have come and gone,
but none have supplanted him in that line.

Messrs. Frank H. Cousens, Frank V.
Davis and Simeon F. Ellis are the success-
ors of Messrs. John Davis, Nathan N.
Martin and Freeman F. Goodhue in the
general painting and paper hanging busi-
ness; and their services are in great de-
mand through the summer months.

The first post-office, within the present
limits of Stockton Springs, was established
at Sandy Point in 1795, with Benjamin
Shute as Post Master. He was followed
by Samuel Shute, Zetham Shute, Nathan-
iel vStowers, John C. Stowers, James P.
Stowers, Alexander Black, Orrin Ward-
well, Miss Emma J. Black, Orrin Ward-
well (a second term), Charles Snow and
the present incumbent, Mr. Frank S. Har-
riman, who has acceptably served the citi-

HISTORICAL SKETCH

zens for eleven years. Mr. Nathaniel
Stowers was the post-master when Stock-
ton was incorporated, and for many years
after.

Among Stockton's residents, who were
"Town OfBcials" — Treasurer and Select-
men — previous to the separation from Pros-
pect, we find the following names: James
Blanchard, Paul R. Hichborn, Nathaniel
Stowers, Ira Blanchard, John Griffin, Ze-
tham F. Shute, Willard Mudgett, Jere-
miah Grant, John W. Mudgett, Benjamin
Shute, Zetham French, Joseph P. Martin,
Henry Black, Samuel Shute, James Black,
Jonathan Dow, Ezra Treat, William
French, Thomas Partridge, Henry Hich-
born, Joseph Ames, Giles C. Grant,
S. I. Roberts, Alexander Staples, Thomas
Blanchard. Many of these served several
years, in one or the other capacity, some
being the older men in active life when the
division was made.

In 1857, Mr. J.B. Frye moved his family

from Belfast to Stockton, and was for

years the principal contracting mason and

brick-layer in town. This family (three

PROMINENT BUSINESS MEN OF STOCKTON SPRINGS.
1) Albion Goodhue. (4) L. A. Gardner. (7) Herbert L.Hopkins. (10) R. L^Mudgett

(2) G. A. Stevens, M. D. (5) J. G. Lambert.

(3) Bion B. Sanborn. ((5) W. J. Creamer.

(13) H. R. Hichborn, Post Master.

(8) J. H. WardweH. (11) W. F. Trundy.

(9) C. Edward Britto, M.D, (12) Albert M. Ames.

(14) J. A. Peirce. M. D.

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

sons and a daughter) was the only one of
that name within the limits of Stockton
Springs. But one member, Mrs. S.
Frances Bridges, is now a resident of the
village.

Mr. G. M. Simmons moved to South
Prospect (as what is now Stockton Springs
was then called) in 1850 and was the propri-
etor of the only Tailoring Establishment
in the villao:e for many years. His highly
respected family is the only one bearing
that name in town. Only his widow and
three daughters survive him — a man al-
ways ready, by vote and act, to uphold
temperance, church, schools and Republi-
can principles, in his adopted town.

Messrs. Charles. H. Gilman and Wil-
liam Staples were the village expressmen
for man}^ 5'ears; and almost every active
adult of to-day, remembers the frequent
"rides" in childhood's daj^s, upon "Uncle
Billy's" cart. A lover of children, he was
beloved by them. The expressmen of the
present day are C. N. Fletcher, William
Smith and Fred Grant.

In 1852, Ralph Morse came from
97

HISTORICAL SKETCH

lyincolnville and became a permanent
resident, marrying a daughter of Sewall
Gilmore, and being, to-day, one of the few
retired sea-captains, among the Stockton
inhabitants, who, after sailing "big ships"
to all maritime cities of the Globe, lives to
see the evidences of future growth in his
adopted home, carried forward by younger
hands aided by his suggestions and assist-
ance. His help is never withheld from
any good cause or public work.

Mr. Joseph W. Thompson came to make
his home permanentl}^ in town in 1848,
marrying a daughter of Mr. A. J. Biather.
He was born in Boothbay, but gave the
attachment of a genial nature, devotedly to
his manhood's home, becoming one of its
prominent citizens. He was a contractor
and house builder, doing much work in
Portland and St. John's, N. B., as well as
within the town, particularly in erecting
"cottages" for siunmer guests, at Fort
Point, — quite a resort for visitors since
1870. He was many years a Justice of the
Peace, marr3dng numerous couples, during
the sixties. His family alone bears that
98

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

name in town to-day. Children and grand-
children are in Massachusetts.

Among those who have represented
Waldo County in the State Senate, we
find the following Stockton residents:
Hons. N. G. Hichborn, Henry McGilvery,
B. M. Roberts^ C. S. Fletcher and C. C.
Roberts. And among the members of the
House of Representatives are Henry Hich-
born, Nathaniel Stowers, S. I. Roberts,
Henry McGilvery, C. S. Fletcher, B. M.
Roberts, S. A. Rendeli, J. W. Thompson,
N. G. Hichborn, William Smith, Alexan-
der Black, Ezra B. Marden, Everett S.
Grant, J. French Hichborn and Alfred
Black.

"The Village Blacksmiths" have been,
beginning with the first upon the territory,
Messrs. Robert McGilvery, John Farnham,
Isaac Pliinney, Samuel H. West, Frank E.
West, Silas Trundy and Adiran Trundy,
with James Bunker. Charles Bridges,
William Westcott, David Chase and Liv-
ingston Hall as "ship's blacksmiths," in
the various shipyards throughout the town.

HISTORICAL SKETCH

Dr. D. S. Woodman of Gardiner came
from what is now Prospect, to reside in the
then growing village of South Prospect,
remaining the only resident physician in
town, from 1845 to 1859, when he moved
to Boston and engaged in the drug
business.

Dr. P. S. Haskell of St. Albans pur-
chased his practice, remaining here from
1859 to 1879, when, because of failing
health, he sold his business to Dr. A. S.
Bird, and moved to St. Paul, Minn.

Dr. Bird of Portland was in town from
1879 to 1888, when he — a graduate of
Harvard College, and of Columbia College,
Medical School of New York City —
removed to New York, where he is now a
distinguished surgeon and specialist.

Dr. J. A. Pierce of Winthrop located in
town in 1875, and is still here; but living
at Sandy Point village since 1907, attend-
ing his old patients from there.

Dr. G. A. Stevens of Troy took the
patients of Dr. Bird, settling here in 1888,
and being still the trusted medical adviser
of many of the town's citizens. He

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

occasionally spends a winter in Florida,
where he owns a fine place.

Dr. J. S. Cole moved here from Swanville
in 1895 and still resides at "lyowder Brook"
— himself an invalid, at present.

Dr. C. E. Britto, the first homeopathic
physician to locate here, came from Rock-
land in 1906 and has a good practice
throughout the town.

Dr. Boyde of Monroe settled in the
village in 1885 and died here in about
three years — a young man much liked by
his patients.

Dr. P. G. Henderson located in town
in 1867 and in 1872 moved to California.

Two Revolutionary soldiers sleep within
Stockton soil: One, Robert Hichborn, a
member of the Boston Tea Party, The
Sons of Liberty, of Boston, and a ist
Lieut, in the Continental Army — and an-
other, Joseph P. Martin, who came to
Maine (then a province of Mass.) soon
after the end of that great conflict. He was
for twelve years one of the Selectmen of the
oldlown of Prospect, and town clerk for
many years. His grave is in the Sandy

lOI

HISTORICAL SKETCH

Point cemetery. Robert Hichborn is bur-
ied in the Cape Jellison yard — Mount Re-
cluse.

As "Town Clerks," we find from the
town records the following: C. S. Fletcher,
1857-58; S. A. Rendell, 1859; C. S.
Fletcher, i860; Henry S. Staples, 1861-
63; George W. Libbey, 1864-66; Freeman
Goodhue, 1867; F. W. Fowler, 1868-69;
Edward ly. Segar, 1870-71; J. G. Lambert,
1872-73; John W. Mudgett, 1874; J. M.
Lafolley, 1875-78; John W. Mudgett,
1879-82; J. G. Lambert, 1883-84; A. S.
Bird, 1885-87; S. B. Merrithew, 1888-95;
W.M. Berry, 1896-99; Fred B. Clifford,
1 900- 1 905; Walter F. Trundy, 1906- 1908
and still holding the office.

The "Town Treasurers" have been
Messrs. Ira Blanchard, True Green, Sebra
Crooker, Ezra B. Marden, Stephen Cleaves,
Joseph Segar, Otis Harriman. Warren F.
Griffin, Charles S. Rendell, J.G. Lambert,
Albert C. Colcord and Ralph Morse.

The "Selectmen and Assessors" have

been Messrs. Nathaniel Stowers, S. I.

Roberts, Oliver Fletcher, C. S. Fletcher,

Otis Harriman, James L. Griffin, J. W.

102

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

Thompson, J. M. Grant, Levi Staples,
Nathaniel Clifford, Alexander Staples, Jr.;
James Crocker, Alexander Black, J. G.
Ivambert, AlvahMudgett, J.H. Whitmore,
Harry Harriman, E. H. Crocker, James A.
French, S. B. Littlefield, James B. French,
Isaac H. Griffin, Robert S. Small, H. E.
Shute, Cassius C. Roberts, F. J. Harden,
Levi Staples, J. W. Staples, F. S. Harri-
man, W. Partridge, C. W. Parsons, W. L.
Staples, William Smith, F. L. Blanchard,
H. M. Griffin, O. C. Wardwell, T. P.
Clifford, J.French Hichborn, Edwin Berry,
Albert M. Ames, E. A. Partridge, John E.
Lancaster, F. F. Crockett, E. C. Berry,
Maitland R. LaFurley, Simeon B. Merri-
thew, I. R. Harris, E. G. Clifford, E. F.
Murray, H. M. Clifford, Charles Kneeland,
A. A. Beaton.

Those who have acceptably served
''Uncle Sam" and the Stockton public as
post-masters are — beginning with the first
in this section (South Prospect then) — N.
G. Hichborn, C. S.Fletcher, John Griffin,
Willard M. Griffin, J. F. Frye, John M.
Ames, Lewis Snell, B.M.Roberts, Rufus L.
Mudgett, and the present incumbent of the

103

HISTORICAL SKETCH

responsible position, H. R. Hichborn. In
July 1907 the post-office became a Presi-
dential office, paying a salary of $1,200
annually. Two R. F. D. routes run from
this office, the "Carriers" being Capt.
Horace M. Griffin and Mr. Leroy Nicker-
son. This has been a "Money Order
Post Office" since 1880.

104

CHURCHES AND SCHOOLS

flllT ROM an c.ld record we exactly copy
,21' the following: "The First Baptist
Church constituted on Prospect" (now
Stockton Springs) "territory, August 1817,
which consisted of nine members, viz. Rev.
Thomas Merrill and wife, Barroch Ellis
and wife, William Rendell and wife, Mrs.
Desiah Hichborn, widow, Huldah Crock-
ett and Mrs. Mary Staples." This old
parish record continues: "In 1818 Sally
Staples was added by letter and Lucia
Rendell by letter. In 1819 Nancy Rendell
by baptism, Mark Dwolly by baptism and
John Day by letter.

"July 1820 excluded Barroch Ellis for
difficulties between him and Sister Huldah
Crockett and for reporting false stories
about the church. Saying he neither
would acknowledge nor receive any dicta-
tion from the church. In September 1820
received Daniel Putman and wife by letter.

"In July 1 82 1, chose William Rendell
and Daniel Putman as Deacons.

"In August 1 82 1, excluded Charity Ellis
from the church for upholding her husband
in reproaching the church and making
hard speeches about it herself, and forsak-

HISTORICAL SKETCH

ing the church and neglecting to meet with
the members on Conference or Lord's
Day.

"In 1822, chose William Rendell," (the
father of Samuel A. Rendell, prominent in
our village life,) "church treasurer.

"November 10, 1824, Rev. Thomas
Merrill deceased.

"In January 1826, chose William Ren-
dell church clerk. March 11, 1826, re-
ceived Silas Putman and wife by letter.
May 7, 1826, received Henry Hichborn by
baptism and Sisters McGilvery and Mary
Kneeland by baptism. July 22, 1826, re-
ceived Charles Bickmore by letter. July
23, 1826, received Sisters Betsey Grant,
Betsey Mossman and Eunice Herriman by
baptism. In July 1826, received Mary
Sargent, who withdrew from the Methodist
church on account of principles she could
not be in unison with. July 30, 1826, re-
ceived Mary Spencer and Betsey Lancaster
by baptism.

"In September 1857, met in church
meeting to settle difficulties with Deacon
Putman for tattling and back biting.
108

(I) Masonic Block, Main, corner of Svlvan Street. (2) Universalist Church, Stockton Springs Village

(3) Congregational Church, Sandy Point Village. (4) Hopkins Block, Church Street.

Photographs by H. D. Hichborn

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

Deacon Putman acknowledged he had
talked reproachfully about Elder Samuel
Allen; but justified himself.

*'Oct. 14, met in church meeting accord-
ing to appointment. Deacon Putman was
not present, adjourned to Nov. 11. Met
according to our appointment, Nov. 11,
Deacon Putman not present. Passed a
vote to disapprove of Deacon Putman 's
conduct and chose Brother Henry Hich-
born to go and talk wdth him, and ad-
journed to Dec. 9.

"In Jan. 1827, selected Brother Henry
Hichborn to be Deacon, for his high char-
acter, and disciplined our Deacon Putman
for reproachful talk and action."

This bears evidence to the strict disci-
pline maintained in this first church upon
Stockton soil.

Soon after the organization of this Cal-
vinistic Baptist church, a Free Baptist so-
ciety was established in the neighborhood,
the discussions of the relative merits of
"foreordination" and "free will," running
high between the respective holders of the
109

HISTORICAL SKETCH

two creeds. A union church was built at
the corner of the present Bast Main and
Mill streets, in which itinerant preachers
of both denominations ministered at inter-
vals to the inhabitants.

In 1839, a Congregational church was
dedicated at Sandy Point, with Rev. James
P. Stone as resident pastor, and Nathaniel
Stowers and Samuel Blanchard as deacons.

The following ministers have served this
parish: Revs. Samuel Bowker, Joseph
Freeman, Samuel Hopley, James R.French,
Thomas L. BHis, Hiram Houston, Joseph
Kyte, Herbert R. .Howes, Benjamin B.
Merrill, Arthur W. Main, D. W. Hardy,
William H. McBride and Thomas H. Der-
rick. The Bangor Theological Seminary
furnishes many students who fill this pul-
pit to-day, in the absence of a settled pas-
tor.

In 1840 the first Universalist church in
town, was erected at Sandy Point, on a lot
adjoining that of the Congregational par-
ish, this contiguity of location in no
degree softening the asperity of feeling
harbored by the respective members of
these houses, dedicated to God. In those

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

days of stern creeds and intolerant preju-
dices, the Evangelical society termed the
Liberal church "The D— I's home."
Seventy years has changed all that! — As a
pastor for the Universalist band of wor-
shipers, Rev. Jerome Harris of I^owell,
Mass., came from Edington in 1843, re-
maining until called to the village church
in 1846. Revs. Mr. Chandler, Hodgeson,
Gibson Smith and Byram succeeded Mr.
Harris at Sandy Point, until, many of
those deeply interested in the cause, either
moved to the growing village or connected
themselves with the flourishing parish es-
tablished there; and in 1868, services were
discontinued, and, later, the church edifice
was sold and converted into a dwelling
house.

The two Baptist church members, in
what is now Stockton Springs village, fol-
lowed Rev. James McFarland, when, he
"having been converted" to Universalism,
preached his new faith to them, in clear,
powerful sentences, answering carefully
every question raised and expounding the
scripture to their satisfaction, so that,
gradually, all became believers in the ulti-

HISTORICAL SKETCH

mate salvation of all mankind; and called
Rev. Jerome Harris from Sandy Point, as
before mentioned. A man of rugged char-
acter, strong intellectual capacity, fine
education and thorough knowledge of all
denominational matters, he impressed his
unfaltering faith, in the "Fatherland of
God and and Brotherhood of Man," upon
the community almost to a man.

During his long pastorate in town —
twenty-five years — a large church was
built — in 1853 — of which Alfred Biather
of Boston was the- architect, and S. A.
Rendell, of this town, the builder. This
house of worship was eventually supplied
with a large pipe organ, a fine furnace and
a suitable chandelier, the latter a gift from
Walsh and Carver of New York, — a firm
doing a large amount of business with our
maratime people.

In 1869 Mr. Harris resigned and was
succeeded by Rev. Wellington Sisson, of
Friendship, N. Y., who, after a three
years' pastorate, returned to his native
town — forced to relinquish preaching, be-
cause of ill health — and soon died of pul-

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

monary consumption. After that the vil-
lage pastors were the resident Universal ist
ministers of Belfast — Revs. S. Goodenough,
F. W. Payson, Miss Myra Kingsbury, C.
H. Wells and A. A. Smith, with H. W.
Blackford, a student of Tufts Divinity
School, for two summers, and H. A.
Markley, from the same college, for one
season— until Rev. H. E. Rouillard was
settled, as a permanent pastor, Dec. i, 1906,
and is still among the citizens.

In 1906 a Congregational church was
organized in the village; and Rev. M. G.
Mann, general missionary of the Maine
Congregational Missionary Society, was
sent to forward the interests of the new
church. After a year he was followed by
Miss Wherrett, who now ministered to the
parishioners, holding regular services in
Hichborn Hall.

At Cape Jellison, Rev. Mr. Corson, for
years in the employ of the Maine Bible
Society, has carried on religious work for
three years. A tent was used the first
summer; but in 1906 Bethel Chapel was
erected, in which Y. M. C. A. work is at-

113

HISTORICAL SKETCH

tempted; and Sunday and week-night ser-
vices, of an Evangelical type, held regu-
larly.

Those early settlers, like all pioneers,
gave what attention was possible to edu-
cation; but, amid the often cruel necessities
of struggling for daily food, but small bums
could be devoted to hiring teachers. As
late as 1824 we find the following receipt
and bill given:

"Prospect, Aug. 17, 1824. Received of
Samuel Shute, thirteen dollars and fifty
cents, for teaching school twelve weeks, in
District No. 6.

Mary Y. Clifford."

And another reads:

"School District No. 3, Dr., To
Nathaniel Stowers, for teaching school
three months, at fourteen dollars per
month — $42.00. Prospect, March 1824.
School Agent, Alexander Staples."

The compensation seems ridiculously
inadequate, in comparison with present
salaries, paid instructors. Among the
earlier teachers, we find Samuel Heagan,
Nathaniel Stowers, Truman Merrill, James

J 14

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

French, John Fayles, N. G. Hichborn,
Giles C. Grant, B. M. Roberts and
Nathan Martin.

In 1855 a comodious school house^ con-
taining three well furnished and equipped
school rooms, was erected at the village;
and excellent teachers — among them
Stephen Littlefield, Cyrus Warren, Charles
Growe, Edward Simonton, Benjamin S.
Grant , John W . Freese , M . P . Frank , J . M .
Payson, Ralph Bragg, J. F. Frye, and A.
A.Jackson in the "higher school;" and
the Misses Easther Fletcher, Lizzie S.
Pitcher, Sarah Staples, Mary Stowers,
Wealthy Dow, Nellie Stevens, Mary
Eufkin, Marie Friend, EiHian A. Simmons,
Hattie M. Cole and many others, in the
"summer terms" — trained the youths and
maidens of the growing village.

A little later, a good sized school house
was built at the smaller village of Sandy
Point, having a school room on the first
floor and hall above.

In the several smaller "districts" com-
fortable quarters for all scholars were
provided; and for years the merry children
of the thriving town filled every seat.

115

HISTORICAL SKETCH

After the decline of shipbuilding — the
town's only industry — the consequent
decrease in population, reduced the num-
ber of children year by year.

The scholars in the village alone, fell
from two hundred to fifty, with a growing
evidence of farther diminution rather than
an increase. Several schools in town had
been discontinued, the number of pupils
falling below statutory requirements. Thus
the educational possibilities of the town
became less and less, the taxable property
decreasing in valuation and the State "mill
tax" becoming annually a smaller sum.

The various School Superintendents —
among them, Rev. Jerome Harris, Mr.
Nathaniel Stowers, Mr. N. G. Hichborn,
Mr. Nathan Martin, Mr. Watts, Mr.
Blanchard, Mrs. ]\Ierrill Hichborn, Mrs.
Alvah Clifford and Miss Harriet D. Hich-
born — in conjunction with their advisory
committees, have labored untiringly
(following in the steps of their earnest
predecessors) for the maintenance of the
best grade of school work attainable, under
existing circumstances.

With the influx of residents, after the
ii6

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

opening of the railroad — the Northern
Maine Seaport — the increase of scholars
was soon apparent. The Cape school
house was repaired and the discontinued
school reopened; and it is hoped the farther
additions, to the population, may render
modern improvements continually practi-
cal.

The village now has three schools — a
primary, intermediate and grammar — with
a graded course of study. A regular High
school is the next thing needed in this line.
At Sandy Point village a good ungraded
school is in session through the school
year. Another is maintained at lyowder
Brook, at Cape Jellison, at the Narrows
and at the "Roberts district." The pres-
ent Superintendent of public schools is
Rev. H. K. Rouillard, with K. D. Bick-
more, I^. F. Murray and F. L. Marston as
the school committee. All are intent on
the gradual betterment of the town's
educational advantages.

117

THE PRESENT STOCKTON
SPRINGS

^^/"fPlNE 'take this' is better than two
'thou shalt have.' "

Stockton rejoices in having a fine
railroad! The future prospects, for in-
creasing business, she views hopefully,
realizing that new conditions and facilities
require time for the adjustment and estab-
lishment of new industries.

In 1906 the anticipations of the most
sanguine were verified — often a score of
vessels docked together at the Cape Jellison
piers, making it lively indeed, in that
vicinity and throughout the southern por-
tion of the town.

Strangers of all kinds and conditions
filled the streets and business places,
bringing the customary attending circum-
stances, of good, bad and indifferent
influences. Yet all were jubilant over the
town's wave of prosperity.

Land valuations jumped to a surprising-
ly high figure — the standard being the
price paid by the railroad company, at
first; but increasing, as outside persons
became more and more eager to invest in
Stockton real estate. Many lots were sold

HISTORICAL SKETCH

at what, two years before, would have
been considered a lunatic's idea of price.

Several real estate brokers settled in the
village; and were apparently busy for two
years.

Mr. Charles Emery has now moved to
Boston. Mr. W. J. Creamer continues
his transactions, in that line, in connection
with his mercantile business, at his store
on Main St.

Many new buildings were erected in
1905-6 and 1907, the demand creating an
incentive, as reiits were exceedingly high
in the village and at Cape Jellison. At
the latter, three good sized "hotels" and
a score of dwelling houses were made
ready for occupants, previous to the close
of 1906; and many others the early part of
the following year.

In 1906 an immense "Potatoe House"
(for the accommodation of which, the third
pier, at Cape Jellison was built) was
erected, having all modern conveniences
for storing, sorting and handling the
tubers, with a long "conveyor" (covered

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

passage) along the wharf, through which
the potatoes were to be carried to the
vessels for shipment.

Many men found employment there;
and, in the autumn of 1907, it was
expected that more than one hundred
persons would be kept busy; but the
(previously unheard-of) failure of the
pototoe crop in Aroostook county caused
financial embarassment to the proprietors
of the enterprise — Messrs. Carter and
Corey — compelling them to close their
business, at least until the maturing of
another year's vegetables — a grave dis-
appointment to many.

The monetary stringency, (seemingly
unnecessary in a country full of means)
which nearly paralyzed all American
business interests last year, made no
exception in the case of the new railroad's
matters here. Like all such companies
throughout the land, a depression was
evident in all divisions of the industries.
Stockton has suffered, in company with
other localities, from temporary stagnation
of business; but, since the Presidential
123

HISTORICAL SKETCH

nominations, there has been an indication
of a returning activity. More lumber is
being shipped; several foreign vessels have
taken shooks and spool-wood to Italy and
Scotland, since the opening of the summer.
Others are expected to arrive soon for
cargoes.

The optimist will eventually win in his
contentions. We trust the future.

Stockton has certainly enjoyed an
unlooked-for boom.

Did she fully, realize what thanks she
owed to the astute promoters of the great
railroad enterprize? This has brought the
town much: it will bring it more!

Two passenger trains daily run from
and into the town — an inestimable blessing
and convenience — giving the citizens close
connection with all points in every direc-
tion; and bringing the mails, express
packages, etc., while innumerable long
lines of freight and flat cars rush over the
track day after day — from early till late —
hauling coal, phosphate, cement and
sulphur into Aroostook Co., brought to
the piers by steamers and vessels, and
bringing down lumber, for shipment.

124

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

The "coal pockets" are located at
Mack's Point, about two miles west from
Stockton, in Searsport.

Another large wharf, equipped with all
modern conveniences for passenger service,
has been completed at Kidder's Point,
about one mile from the Stockton line, in
Searsport. There the railroad's large
electric-light plant is established, which
illuminates all their system in this locality,
many arc lights being placed on the
mammoth piers at Cape Jellison, with
scores of incandescent burners, along the
line of the various piers and stations.

Tons of earth have been moved — trans-
ferred to points needing filling, from the
small elevations — until the contour of the
harbor side of "the Cape" is so physically
changed as to be unrecognizable, to those
not familiar with the alterations.

The elevation of the southern end of the
"mill bridge," with the placing of the
railroad bridge across the mill pond, give
an odd appearance to that region. Bran's
point is now leveled for a track yard, and
the curve in its shore filled for track
space.

125

HISTORICAL SKETCH

In the village the cut twelve feet deep,
through which the trains run across
Middle St., and the embankment across
* 'ship-yard hollow," change the whole
aspect of that once busy locality. This
indication of activity is preferable to the
crumbling reminders of that long vanished
prosperity, however picturesque ruined
wharves, decaying logs and tumbled-down
steam boxes may appear to the artistic
eye.

The incoming and outgoing trains are
the greatest changes apparent to the re-
turning sons and daughters of the town.
To the welcome sound of the rumbling
roar and shrill whistle of the locomotives^
the community easily and rapidly ac-
customed itself. None now think the
town could give up the every-day con-
veniences of the Northern Maine Seaport
Railroad.

Fort Point has its usual colony of sum-
mer cottagers. Several families from New
York and New Jersey own large residences
(cottages, so-called) and others from
Massachusetts have similar hot-weather
homes at that ''always cool" location.
126

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

Bangor people have several cottages at
that conveniently situated summer resort,
although not as many from that city are
there, since the burning of the large hotel
several years ago.

The "Keeper of the Light Station," at
Fort Point is Mr. J. B. Thurston, who has
most acceptably filled the post for the past
five years. His predecessors (beginning
with the earliest) have been Capt. William
Clevvley, Capt. John Odam, Mr. Henry
Stowell, Mr. Hiram Grant and Mr.
Webster.

A new industry is just starting in town
— a Sardine Factory and general Canning
Business — in which many have great hopes,
and which all desire to see succeed.
Already — July, 1908 — the wharf, running
from the John Marden shore, near
lyowder's Brook, is partially completed
and the large building nearly finished,
upon a lot given by Mr. George Lanpher,
to insure the location of the business in
that neighborhood. The J. D. Young
Canning Co. is the firm name of this new
business association.

127

HISTORICAL SKETCH

Such as that, and every kind of employ-
ment, is the needed element to-day in
town. It has been wisely said by the
French: "I^abor rids us of three great
evils — tediousness, vice and poverty."

It is confidently hoped that some of the
various enterprizes, contem,plating estab-
lishing plants here, may become realities.

A United States flag floats from the
window of the Deputy Col. of Customs,
Mr. Albert M. Ames, at the John M. Ames
Co.'s building, Main Street.

Stockton has awakened from her long
dreaming. The bow of promise hangs
over her.

Other men stand in the arena — business
and social — other times and other problems
confront them; but we look for the town's
prosperity to equal — yes, exceed — the
olden days of ship building plants and sea-
going. What have the years in store?
None can answer.

"For optics sharp it needs, I wean,
To see what is not to be seen!"

Between Stockton and Searsport there
should be concert of action, in promoting
128

OF ST OCKTON SPRINGS

commercial relations and business har-
mony. The contiguous territory must be
benefited, almost equally, by whatever is
located in either township. "A long pull,
a strong pull and a pull all together" is
what is needed to bring full prosperity to
these sister towns, after the great advan-
tages accorded them, by the absolute gift,
of railroad privileges, from the far-seeing
managers of the Bangor and Aroostook
Railroads.

Deep water, safe anchorage and an open
winter-port were what those efficient busi-
ness men sought: the accident of location
gave those inestimable blessings to
Stockton. May she in all things act pru-
dently.

"The imagination gallops: judgment
only goes a foot-pace."

ADDENDA.

The name Eben Griffin, on page 7,

should be Samuel Griffin. He settled (in

1775) in the eastern part of Searsport,

(now Park) his children being Samuel,

129

HISTORICAL SKETCH

Eliza, Eben, William, Nathan, Peleg,
Desiah, Isaac and Jesse.

Eben settled in what is now Park; and
Nathan in the present town of Stockton
Springs, his family being Peleg, John,
Nahum, Nathan, Jesse, Katharine, Desiah,
James and Isaac. All resided within their
native town, Katharine (Mrs. Joseph Park)
being in Searsport, after the division of the
original town of Prospect.

Mr. Sew^all Gilmore came from Belfast
in 1830; married a daughter of Mr. Craw^-
ford Staples and was the father of the only
family bearing that name within the town.

Mr. Sullivan Patterson came from his
native town of Belfast in 1831. He
married a daughter of Mr. Paul Revere
Hichborn, being the father of the well-
known family of sea captains of that
name, in Stockton village.

Mr. Albion P. Goodhue moved from
Albion, to what is now Stockton Springs,
in 1840. He married a daughter of
"Master-builder" Sebra Crooker, and
eventually became a skillful master builder
himself.

130

OF STOCKTON SPRINGS

Ivater his brother, Mr. Joseph Goodhue,
and his nephew, Mr. Freeman Goodhue,
settled in town. Both married and raised
families in Stockton, these three house-
holds constituting all of that name wdthin
the towmship.

The name of Staples has been the most
frequently heard of any in the village sec-
tion of the towm, the progeny of the tw^o
original settlers, John and Miles, being
numerous. Mr. Crawford Staples — a son
of Miles — being the first white child born
wathin the limits of Stockton, was one of
the most prominent citizens of the town,
in the early part of the last century.
Messrs. Alexander and Henry Staples
(tw^o brothers) were prominent residents
of the village previous to i860, children
and grandchildren, of the former, being
still influential citizens of the village.

Mr. William Dickey and wife — Eleanor
(Wilson) Dickey — moved here, from
Londonderry or Windham, N. H., in 1785,
settling at Lowder's Brook, on the neck
of Cape Jellison. Their many children,
grandchildren and great grandchildren

HISTORICAL SKETCH

have carried their name from the Atlantic
to the Pacific oceans.

In that family connection, one daughter
by marriage, Mrs. Polly (Lancaster)
Dickey reached the advanced age of one
hundred and three years, retaining her
faculties wonderfully, until very nearly
the end of her peaceful, quiet life. She
had lived in two states, three counties and
five towns, without once moving.

Hersey Retreat (the property of the
Universalist Sunday School of Bangor,
bequeathed to that body, with a sufficient
sum to support it, as a regular summer
resort for the children by the late Gen.
S. F. Hersey, of that city) and Alumni
Camp (owned by the Alumni Association
of the Eastern State Normal School, situ-
ated in Castine,) are both located at Sandy
Point, on the point long owned by Mr.
Robert French — a charming spot.

ERRATA. ^

On page 22, line 17, read 1858 for 1853.
On page 37, line 21, insert among the

132

OF ST OCKTON SPRINGS

"Stockton's Master Mariners,'' Jeremiah
Mudgett.

On page 39, line 3, read interested for
interesting.

On page 83, line 7, substitute Grant for
Griffin.

133