HISTORY
OF THE
MARINE SOCIETY
NEWBURYPORT, MASSACHUSETTS,
FROM ITS INCORPORATION IN 1772
TO THE YEAR 1906: TOGETHER WITH
A COMPLETE ROSTER AND A NAR-
RATIVE OF IMPORTANT EVENTS
IN THE LIVES OF ITS MEMBERS.
COMPILED BY
CAPTAIN WILLIAM H. BAYLEY
AN D O
CAPTAIN OLIVER O. JONES
1906.
m
PRESS OF THE DAILY NEWS
{Si
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
Page
Preface . . 3
Records and History ......... 5
By-Laws 305
Incidents in Lives of Members 313
Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . 469
Marine Fire Society 482
Custom Receipts 488
Miscellany — Wreck of Pocahontas 490
French War 491
Pilotage 492
To the Gold Fields 492
Mill Prison 493
The Ship Merrimac ........ 493
Privateering .......... 495
Sea Fencibles ......... 496
Confederate Privateers ........ 497
Privateers Commanded by Members of Marine Society . 498
Index 499
JV1S07901?
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.
Ilsley House (frontispiece) .
Signatures of Charter Members .
View of Reception Room, looking north,
View of Reception Room, looking south,
View of Museum .
View of Museum .
House built by Abraham Wheelwright
Captain William H. Bayley .
Captain Joseph A. Janvrin .
Captain Stephen P. Bray, Jr.,
Captain Richard Newell
Captain Charles W. Brown .
Ship Mary L. Cushing .
Captain Moses Brown .
Captain Abraham Wheelwright
Captain Offin Boardman
Ship Geneva ....
Three oldest members .
Captain Charles E. Coker .
Brig John C. Noyes
Captain John N. Pritchard .
Captain Joseph D. Small
Captain Isaac N. Colby
Captain George P. Spaulding
Captain George L. Bray
Captain Fred A. Kezar .
Captain Charles H. Colby
Captain Oliver O. Jones
Captain John F. Pike .
Captain John T. Howard
facing page 3
before page 5
facing page 49
" 64
" 129
" 161
" " 210
" " 240
" " 242
" 271
" 273
" 285
" 310
" 325
" 342
" 355
" 388
" 394
" 411
" 412
" 427
" 431
" 432
" 441
" 448
" 450
" 454
" 457
" 463
" 467
ERRATA.
In any book of chronicles, errors, both real and seeming,
will appear, but the compilers have resisted the temptation
to over-edit these records, lest the grain markings of the
original material be obscured by a coating of literary varnish.
This is the story of the deeds of men who did, told by them-
selves or their contemporaries, replete with individual pecu-
liarities and sometimes literary imperfections (sans orthogra-
phy, sans syntax and prosody), but having the piquancy,
relish, and charm of the personal narrative. They were men
whose horizon expanded around the world, and their influ-
ence is manifest today in the spirit of liberality of creed,
custom, and opinion, commonly known of Newburyport.
However, it should read :
Page ii, line 24, — James Nicoll instead of Nichols.
' 22, " 13, — Capt. Choate requests by Capt. Newhall.
' 95, " 22, — respectively instead of respectfully.
' 294, " 29,— Nov. 28, 1889.
' 404, " 9, — Richmond. Line 33, — Negesack.
'407, " 9, — clewed up the light sails.
• 413, " 19, — Admiral Dupont.
'429, " 20, — starboard tacks aboard.
'440, " 10,— barque Wade. Lines 24, 26, — brig Eschol.
1 445. " 9.— April 15, 1883.
'468, " 17,— Callao, Peru.
'473. " 1 5 — George Fitz's house.
And the astonishing adventures of Captain Eleazer John-
son [at that time aged 3 years] , related on page 360, can more
truthfully be told of Eleazer Johnson the elder, on page 323.
PREFACE.
In writing a history of the Marine Society of Newburyport, it seems
proper, that we first consider the motive and purpose, which ultimately led
to the founding of a society which has been of so much benefit to our city,
more especially in its earlier day, for we find enrolled upon its records,
the names of men, who after their retirement from the sea, became promi-
nent in the affairs of their town and in offices of the United States.
We learn from their by laws, that the first object of the society was to
aid members who might fall into distress at sea, or meet with the misfor-
tune of sickness, old age, shipwreck, or disaster, causing hardship to their
families.
The Marine Society was founded in 1772.
The idea of the association was borrowed from a similar society in
Boston, chartered by Gov. Shirley, in 1754, and another in Salem, both for
the same general purposes. In Nov. 1772, the following persons viz, Capts.
Thomas Jones, William Wyer, Benjamin Rogers, Samuel Newhall, Mich-
ael Hodge and Edward Wigglesworth, instituted the society in Newbury-
port, each person contributing a guinea to inaugurate a charitable fund for
unfortunate members, and inviting others to join on the same conditions.
The principal aims of the society, which is composed entirely of past or
present ship masters, are two; to improve the knowledge of the coast, by
the several members, upon their arrival from sea, communicating their
observations, inwards and outwards, of the variation of the needle, sound-
ings, courses, distances, and other remarkable things in writing, to be
lodged with the society, for the greater security of navigation, and to raise
a common fund for the relief of the members and their families in poverty,
or other adverse circumstances.
The first meeting of this society was held at an Inn, situated on High
street, opposite the head of Marlborough street, now called the Ilsley
house. It was there agreed to form a society, to be called the Marine So-
ciety in Newburyport, New England, and to open a subscription paper, and
request any respectable persons, who were, or had been masters of vessels,
to join with them.
They again met on November 13th, when thirteen names had been
added to their roll.
Many of the earlier members of this society were attracted to New-
buryport by the large number of vessels doing business in the West Indies,
and other ports. We have been able, by the assistance of history, and the
descendants of our former shipmasters, to ascertain a few facts connected
with them, which may prove of some interest.
It is to be regretted that no record has ever been written or preserved
of the many thrilling incidents which our early members experienced, pass-
ing through the war of the Revolution, in which many of them were en-
gaged, both on the land and on the sea, in command of privateers, and
destroying many of the enemy's vessels, often being taken prisoners, and
confined in the old Mill Prison and in Bermuda, suffering great hardships,
upon their return home, with the characteristic of seafaring men, ready to
again start upon another cruise, to again experience capture and imprison-
ment. In the war of 1812, many of our number commanded privateers,
and letters of marque, and in some cases, were very successful, accumu-
lating large fortunes, which many of their descendants are enjoying at
this present time.
A few incidents connected with the early members of our society have
been gleaned from histories, early newspapers, and through the kindness of
relatives, who have always been willing to assist us. No doubt many more
interesting pages could be written, could the relatives be known.
CAPT. W. H. BAYLEY.
CAPT. OLIVER O. JONES.
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RECORDS AND HISTORY
THE MARINE SOCIETY
NEWBURYPORT. MASS.
On Thursday, the fifth day of November, 1772, the following
ship masters met at the house of Capt. Benjamin Rogers, near the
head of Marlborough street, for the purpose of forming an as-
sociation whereby they might gain knowledge of the various
ports and unknown seas, winds, currents, courses and distances
upon which their duties called them. Also to provide a fund for
the widows and children of those members who might, in the
opinion of the society, be found needy, also to assist their own
members, who might by adverse circumstances be brought to dis-
tress and suffering.
The gentlemen who composed that little party (only six of
them) could not for a moment have realized the important and
honorable position which the society they were about to organize
would occupy in future ages, and the great good it would accom-
plish.
The names of the little party were Capt. Thomas Jones, Capt.
William Wyer, Capt. Benjamin Rogers, Capt. Samuel NewhaJl,
Capt. Michael Hodge, Capt. Edward Wigglesworth, Capt. William
Friend, the latter absent by sickness.
After being called to order they agreed to form themselves
into a society by the name of the MARINE SOCIETY OF
NEWBURYPORT, NEW ENGLAND, and agreed to deposit
in the hands of Capt. Michael Hodge, as temporary treasurer, the
sum of one guinea, of the value of twenty-eight shillings, each
person, for the establishment of a fund for charitable purposes to
6 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
the unfortunate of the society, which was immediately effected,
some one paying for Capt. William Friend, who was detained at
home by sickness.
It was then agreed to open a subscription paper and to offer
it to all respectable persons who were or had been masters of
vessels upon the same conditions of paying in one guinea for the
purpose of increasing the funds and agreeing to form themselves
into a society to be called as aforesaid, also agreeing to observe
and comply with all rules and regulations which might become
necessary to adopt for the well ordering and regulating of the
society.
After choosing a committee to prepare a code of laws for
their government, they adjourned for one week.
Nov. 13, 1772, the society again met in accordance with ad-
journment and we may be assured that the committees appointed
at the last meeting had faithfully attended to the duties assigned
them when the following new names were added to their roll and
a code of rules and laws were accepted and adopted. New mem-
bers, viz : Capt. James Hudson, Capt. Jonathan Parsons, Jr., Capt.
Henry Friend, Capt. David Coats, Capt. Joseph Noyes, Capt.
William Coombs, Capt. Joseph Rowe, Capt. Thomas Thomas,
Capt. Joseph Newman, Capt. William Peirce Johnson, Capt. An-
thony Knap, Capt. Eleaser Johnson, Jr., and Capt. Jeremiah
Pearson, Jr.
The committee on preparing rules submitted the following,
which were signed by all present :
STANDING LAWS OF THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURY-
PORT, COMMENCING THE THIRTEENTH DAY OF
NOVEMBER, 1772.
Firstly: The members of this society shall consist only of such
persons as now are or have been commanders of vessels,
unless upon extraordinary occasions.
Secondly : That the members of this society or so many of them
as shall be at home and not hindered by sickness, shall meet
the first Thursday of every month throughout the year at
such house in Newburyport as the society shall agree on,
at six o'clock in the afternoon, from the twenty-first day of
September until the twenty-first day of March, and at
seven the rest of the year.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 7
Thirdly: That the Master of the society shall be Moderator of
the meetings, in his absence the Deputy Master, the Treas-
urer in the absence of both, and the eldest member present
in the absence of all of them.
Fourthly : That each member shall pay into the box for the use
of the society at the time of his entry, twenty-eight shillings
lawful money, and eight pence monthly during such time
as he shall belong to said society, which payments shall;
not be expended at any time by the society but remain a
stock in the box for the intent and purposes hereinafter
mentioned.
Fifthly : That no member shall be entitled to any relief out of
the box until he has belonged to the society for the space of
six months and paid lawful dues monthly as aforesaid.
Sixthly: That every member who shall become a proper object ,/
to be relieved out of the box, shall apply himself to the so-
ciety at their monthly meeting in writing and set forth the
nature of his case, and the society shall have time until
the next meeting to consider of it, and then if the society
are agreed that he ought to be relieved out of the box, he
shall be immediately paid so much as the society shall vote
him, but in case any three of the members present will de-
clare him a proper object of charity, the society shall imme-
diately proceed to, and consider his case and act as they
shall think fit.
Seventhly : That such member or members as shall go a voyage
to sea and return successful, shall pay eight pence lawful
money into the box for the use of the society, for each and
every month that he hath been absent, but in case any
member of this society shall happen to be taken by the
enemy, cast away, or by any other misfortune impoverished
and reduced, then such member or members shall on his
or their arrival or return, making application to the society,
be excused from paying the said eight pence monthly for
the time he has been absent, and be relieved according to
the nature of his misfortune and the ability of the box.
Eightly : That in case any member of this society being a married
man, shall be totally lost or die on shore, then the society
shall relieve the widow, child or children of such member if
the society think them proper objects according as the box
can afford.
\
8 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Ninthly: If any member of this society meet with any misfor-
tune so as to be reduced on shore by old age or sickness,
or any other misfortune, he shall be entitled to such annual
relief as the society shall think fit, after having been a mem-
ber seven years and paying his dues to the society.
Tenthly: That no monies belonging to the society shall be let
at interest but on bond and collateral security of land under
a good title and without any incumberance on it at cash of
double of the value of the sum set and lying in this Province
in or as near the town of Newburyport as may be.
Eleventhly : That no member of this society at their monthly
meetings play or promote the playing of cards, dice or any
other gaming whatever.
Twelfthly : That the members of this society shall and will avoid
all quarrels, needless contentions and debates that may tend
to create animosity or disturb the good order, peace, friend-
ship and love that each member should or ought to bear to
the other, and in case any one or more of the society shall
happen to quarrel or be in a quarrel, there shall be three at
least, or more of the society to consider of the same, and
lay such fines on him or them that they think guilty, as not
to exceed twenty shillings lawul money, no less than two.
Thirteenthly : If any member of this society shall commit any
notorious crime or be a common drunkard, a quarrelsome
person disturbing the peace and good order of the society,
or be guilty of any other vice, he shall be discharged from the
society by a vote of the major part of the members present
at the annual meeting, and shall be excluded the benefit of
the box unless he be reclaimed, and in such he may be ad-
mitted into the society again.
Fourteenthly : That if any member of this society be guilty of pro-
I fane swearing or cursing, shall pay to the box two shillings
/ lawful, and for non-attendance of the monthly meetings, he
[ shall pay to the box one shilling and four pence lawful.
Fifteenthly : That each and every member of this society (in case
of the decease of any member or members thereof at New-
buryport) shall on timely notice given to each of them from
the clerk by a porter to be employed by said clerk for that
purpose, attend the funeral of such deceased member or
members, and that each and every member neglecting to. at-
tend shall foreit and pay at the succeeding nights meeting
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NBWBURYPORT 9
one shilling and four pence lawful for the use of the box
and the charge of such porter shall be paid by the society.
Sixteenthly : It is recommended to every member of this society
to be careful in his observations, inwards and outwards of
variation of the neeedle, the soundings, courses and dis-
tances and of all remarkable things about this coast and
communicate in writing to this society from time to time,
such things as he shall deem serviceable to the community
to be examined and digested by a committee appointed by
the society for that purpose and lodged with the clerk of
the society in order to be recorded in the records of said
society.
Seventeenthly : That the clerk of the society shall from time to
time keep a fair and just account of all monies paid into
the box and delivered out, and to whom and when, and
shall read over their laws distinctly to every new member
or members that shall be admitted into the society, at their
admission or first appearance in it, and as often at other
times as the society shall think proper.
Then they proceeded to the election of officers, adopting
the titles as used by the Marine Society of Salem, which was
formed a few years previous and with whom the committee had
corresponded.
Capt. Jonathan Parsons, Jr. was elected Master
Capt. Henry Friend, " Deputy Master.
Capt. William Coombs, Treasurer.
Capt. Samuel Newhall, " " Clerk.
Voted, that all expenses accruing at meetings, either monthly
yearly or extra, to be paid out of each private pocket and that no
such expenses shall be drawn from the box.
Voted that the society shall meet at the time mentioned in
the laws and that the society shall break up at nine o'clock in the
winter season, that is from the 21st day of September to the 21st
day of March and at ten o'clock the rest of the year.
Voted, that all members admitted into this society after this
evening shall be by yeas and nays and that the vote shall be unan-
imous, and that each and every member admitted shall pay for
the use of the society three shillings lawful money over and
above the twenty eight shillings mentioned in the laws.
Voted, that the clerk return the thanks of this society to Capt.
IO RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Bartholomew Putnam and the Marine Society at Salem in the
name of the Marine Society of Newburyport.
A committee was appointed to procure a convenient place for
the society to meet in, monthly, consisting of Capt. Jonathan
Parsons, Capt. William Coombs, Capt. Thomas Jones, Capt.
Thomas Thomas and Capt. David Coats.
Capt. Henry Friend, Capt. Joseph Noyes, Capt. Thomas
Thomas, Capt. Benjamin Rogers and Capt. Samuel Newhall
were appointed a committee to assist the treasurer in letting the
money at interest.
Copy of letter sent to Marine Society of Salem :
Newburyport, Nov. 13, 1772.
Capt. Bartholomew Putnam,
Sir: — The Marine Society of Newburyport being assembled together,
voted to return you thanks for your kindness in procuring a copy of the
Marine Laws at Salem and for the Bye Laws in your last letter, and have
Sir, the honor in the name of this society to thank you for your kind-
ness and likewise the society at Salem, for granting a copy of their laws as
it has been a benefit to a young society, which I hope in a short time may
gather a considerable fund which already has amounted to twenty-seven
pounds lawful. Anything can serve yours or any other society for the
benefit of mankind, shall be always at command.
For the Marine Society at Newburyport,
SAMUEL NEWHALL, Clerk.
Nov. 20, 1772. Capt Joseph Choate, Capt. John Barnard,
Capt. Moses Hale, were admitted as members and their money
received and paid to the treasurer.
Voted, that Capt. James Hudson be master of this society,
Capt. Jonathan Parsons having resigned.
Voted, that the next meeting of the society be on Wednesday,
the second day of December next, on account of the public
Thanksgiving in this Province, being on the third day of Decem-
ber.
The following duties were given to the acting clerk :
Sir: — You are desired to record in this book at each meet-
ing, all members' names, present or absent and those at home to be
charged with their fine if not present at the calling of the list.
You are desired to record in this book all votes of the so-
ciety and every other matter of consequence, so as may be trans-
ferred into the society's book of record.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT II
You are to receive the monthly dues, fines and arrears of such
members as are present at the meeting and deliver the money to
the treasurer, or him that is appointed in his absence.
You are to call upon all members going to sea, for their dues
to the society, if their departure is likely to be before another
meeting.
Dec. 2, 1772, voted, the charge of printing the laws of the
society shall be paid by the treasurer and to be repaid by the so-
ciety out of their private pockets at the next yearly meeting, or at
any other meeting as shall be convenient.
Voted, that the society shall meet at Capt. William Daven-
port's or any other public house as shall be thought convenient by
the society, until the twenty-first day of March, next.
Voted, that Captains James Hudson, Jonathan Parsons, Jo-
seph Choate, William Coombs and Thomas Thomas, be a com-
mittee to procure a petition and have it presented to the General
Court of the Massachusetts Bay, for a charter for this Marine
Society of Newburyport, to be forwarded as soon as possible.
Jan. 7, 1773, the following officers were elected:
Capt. James Hudson, Master for the year 1773.
Capt. Henry Friend, Deputy Master.
Capt. William Coombs, Treasurer.
Capt. Samuel Newhall, Clerk.
Capt. William Noyes and Capt. James Nichols were admitted
as members and their money received and paid to the treasurer.
Voted, that Capt. Jonathan Parsons, Jr., Capt. William
Coombs, Capt. Thomas Jones, Capt. James Nicoll and Capt.
William Wyer, be a committee to draw up Bye Laws for this so-
ciety.
Feb. 4, 1773, Capt. William Stickney was accepted as a mem-
ber.
Voted that the Bye Laws presented by the committee chosen
to draw up the same, be accepted and recorded.
The committee appointed Nov. 13, 1772, to assist the treas-
urer in letting out the monies of the society, reported that they
have let to Capt. William Coombs, thirty-seven pounds, and have
taken the security our laws direct, which security is lodged in the
hands of the clerk.
I a RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
By Laws accepted April i, 1773:
BY-LAWS OF THE MARINE SOCIETY.
First. That the Master and other officers be annually
chosen.
Second. That at the time perfixed for the meeting the
Master takes his seat at the head of the table with the deputy
master on his right hand and the clerk on his left and immediately
proceed to business, but in case of the absence of any officers, their
places shall be filled up by the oldest members present that the
dignity of the Master or Moderator for the time being be upheld.
Third. That at the time of doing business there shall be
a profound silence observed in matters, about which we are then
conversant and that order and decorum be strictly observed, but
one member shall speak at a time and he shall address the Master
or Moderator for the time being and shall not be interrupted till he
has offered what he has to say, except he is indecent or disrespect-
ful, and then by the Master or Moderator for the time being only.
Fourth. That dissolving or adjourning any meeting, shall at
all times be done by a major vote of the society, not to inter-
fere with our standing laws in this respect.
Fifth. That any member who shall absent himself from the
society for six months, that could attend, shall be looked upon as
an offender and shall eight days before the next meeting after his
so offending be notified by the Master to appear at said meeting
and give an account of his conduct, and in case of his refusal shall
be esteemed unworthy of any dependance from the society, and ex-
cluded the benefit of the box. But if the said mtember should
desire to be re-admitted, it shall then be put to vote, and then if
he has a majority of votes for his re-admittance, he shall be re-
admitted, paying his dues to the society and twenty shillings to
the box.
Sixth. That if any member be admonished by the society for
any breach of the laws and will not be reclaimed, the society shall
appoint a committee of not more than seven nor less than three
of its members to hear his defence, look into the nature of his
ciime and report at the next meeting, and in case said member
should not pay that deference to the society's judgment, which is
always due in civil matters to the collective body in opposition to
the opinion of a single member, the society shall have a right and
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 3
are hereby impowered to vote him unworthy of said community
and to exclude him the benefit of the box, or to inflict any less
punishment as they shall judge the nature of the crime which its
several aggravations may deserve.
Seventh. That if any member of the society shall tattle or
discover any secrets of the society, he shall be punished agreeable
to the foregoing article.
Eighth. As much money is spent in inveterate enmity and ani-
mosity propagated by litigious law suits, it is recommended to each
member of this community in case of any difficulty or dispute with
a brother that they cannot settle within themselves, to lay the
matter before the society in order that a committee may be ap-
pointed of such members as they shall mutually approve of, to
settle and adjust the same, and in all matters of controversy each
member shall be subject to the cognisance of this society, and in
case he desires their jurisdiction or refuses to comply with their
sentiments, he shall be subject to be dealt with agreeable to the
sixth article of the bye laws.
June 3, 1773, Capt. Nathaniel Nowell and Capt. William Cof-
fin were admitted as members and paid thirty-one shillings.
June 4, 1773, took Capt. William Coombs note for 8L, us, 8p,
it being what money was in the treasurers hands and not upon
interest before.
Oct. 7, 1773, Capt. John Buntin admitted as a member and
paid iL-ns-8p.
Nov. 4, 1773, officers elected.
Capt. James Hudson, Master.
Capt. Henry Friend, Deputy Master.
Capt. William Coombs, Treasurer.
Capt. Samuel Newhall, Clerk.
Voted, that any members of this society shall be liable to the
fine provided in the laws of the society for non attendance if not
present at the usual place of meetiiig to answer to his name when
called when the public clock strikes six in the winter season and
at seven in the summer season, except sickness or being out of
town shall hinder and that the clock be manifestly out of order.
Voted, that the society will meet at the house of Mrs. Daven-
port for the ensuing year.
Nov. 8, 1773, voted, that Captains Henry Friend, Joseph
Noyes, Thomas Thomas, Benjamin Rogers and Samuel Newhall
KECORDS AND HISTORY OF
be a committee to let out the money at present collected, and what
may be collected the ensuing year.
Voted, that the two notes received from Capt. Coombs,
dated in Dec. 1772, and in June, 1773, be given up and a note taken
for the whole sum collected payable to the above committee.
♦The committee reported that the whole sum collected was
53L-8S-3-4P lawful money according to the accounts in the so-
ciety's books, for which sum received Capt. William Coombs note
of hand and gave up the other notes given for monies received in
time past by him.
Voted, that Captains James Hudson, Thomas Jones, Thomas
Thomas.. William Coffin and William Stickney be a committee to
get a petition drawn and presented to the General Court for a
Charter for this Marine Society of Newburyport.
Voted, that no persons or person be admitted as a member of
this society unless ten members are present at his or their admit-
tance.
Voted, that every clerk shall call upon each member when at
home for his balance due the society if likely to be absent before
the next meeting.
Voted, that whereas at a meeting of this society, Nov. 1773, it
was voted that no person be admitted into this society as a mem-
ber or members of this society, unless ten members are present
at his or their admittance, and whereas it often happens that mem-
bers of unblemished character present themselves when there is
not that number in town, we have therefore thought fit to recon-
sider said vote and it is accordingly reconsidered and voted, that
a unanimous vote of the members present shall be sufficient for
the admittance of any member or members.
Voted, that Capt. James Johnson be admitted a member of
this society.
Voted, that Capt. Robert Jenkins be admitted a member of
this society.
Oct. 6, 1774, Capt. Moses Brown to be a member of this soci-
ety to attend the next meeting.
Whereas, Major William Coffin has absented himself from
attending the monthly meetings since November the fourth, 1773
and has been legally notified by the president of this society agree-
•This sum was the net savings of the first year of the organization.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 5
able to the fifth article of our bye laws, to which notification he
has paid no regard, but in his conduct in the matter has treated
this society with contempt, we therefore judge him unworthy ot
this community, and he is accordingly unanimously voted to be
excluded any benefit from said society or any communion with
them in said society.
Nov. 4, 1774, 14 present, 13 absent.
Voted, Capt. Peter Roberts to be a member of this society.
Officers elected.
Capt. James Hudson, Master.
Capt. Joseph Choate, Deputy Master.
Capt. William Coombs, Treasurer.
Capt. Samuel Newhall, Clerk.
Voted that the Marine Society meet at Mrs. Davenport's for
the ensuing year.
Nov. 10, 1774, 15 present. Voted and admitted, Capt.
Moses Brown as a member of this society and received entrance
money 1L-12S.
Whereas, Capt. James Johnson and Capt. Robert Jenkins
were admitted members of this society March 3, 1774 by four mem-
bers present contrary to a vote of the last annual meeting, viz:
that no member be admitted unless ten members are present, it
is now moved and voted that the above two named gentlemen be
and hereby are received as members of this society from said
3rd of March past.
Moved, that whether there shall be less than ten members
present at the admittance of any new member or members during
the ensuing year. Put and voted by a majority in the negative.
Jan. 5, 1775, voted, Capt. Joshua Hill be a member of this
society and received his entrance.
Nov. 2, 1775, officers elected.
Capt. James Hudson, Master.
Capt. William Coombs, Deputy Master.
Capt. William Stickney, Treasurer.
Capt. Samuel Newhall, Clerk.
At this meeting it was proposed that each member shall pay
his monthly dues at every six months, or in other words, that every
member shall be his own treasurer. It was put to the society and
voted in the negative, that is that every member pay his monthly
dues at every meeting. The reason for the above motion is that
l6 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
the distressing times call's every member to be as careful of his
money as possible.
Dec. 7, 1775, voted that the president call upon Capt. John
Buntin to know the reason for his non-attending.
The committee chosen Nov. 2, 1775 for examining the ac-
counts and letting out the money on interest, reported that they
gave up Capt. Hudson's note, dated Nov. 16, 1774 for 15L-12S-8P
and received his note of hand for 33L-14S-IP for interest on the
above note of 15L-12S-8P and money received to Nov. 2, 1775, and
Capt. Coombs security and note remains as before.
Jan. 4, 1776. The president of this society reports that he
waited on Capt. John Buntin at the special desire of the society at
their last monthly meeting, ten days previously to this meeting to
know the reason of his not attending, to which Capt. Buntin de-
clared that he had not money to pay his dues to the society. The
president desired him to attend at this meeting, to which Capt.
Buntin made no answer.
May 2, 1776, voted, that Capt. William Nichols be accepted as
a member of the Marine Society.
June 6, 1776, it was voted that an amendment in the second
article of the laws of the society be made.
Capt. Thomas Thomas left the society without asking leave of
the Master.
Sept. 5, 1776, voted to excuse Capt. Anthony Knap his dues
to the society, being unfortunate in being captured by the enemy.
Nov. 7, 1776, election of officers.
Capt. James Hudson, Master.
Capt. William Coombs, Deputy Master.
Qapt. Thomas Thomas, Treasurer.
Capt. Samuel Newhall, Clerk.
Voted, that Capt. Michael Hodge, Capt. William Coombs,
Capt. David Coats, Capt. Joseph Noyes and Capt. Thomas
Thomas be a committee to examine and settle the accounts of the
society and let the money due to the society that is received to
this day and make their return to the society on Thursday next.
Voted, that the society meet at Mrs. Davenport's the year
ensuing.
Whereas, there was a motion for an amendment to the second
article of the laws of the society, June 6th, it is now put to vote if
there should be an amendment and it was voted in the negative.
Nov. 19, 1776, Adjourned meeting.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 7
Moved that it should be thought on if a member absent and in
town at an adjournment should pay fines to the society.
Jan. 2, 1777, voted, to receive or charge each member 4 pence
for money paid Mr. Parsons, a lawyer for bond and deed for the
society, dated Nov. 14, 1776.
Voted, unanimously, that Capt. Andrew Giddings be admitted
a member of this society. Received from Capt. Giddings 32 shil-
lings for entrance.
Voted, that the fees or entrance money shall be raised to such
sum as the society may agree upon.
Feb. 6, 1777, Capt. Joseph Stanwood was unanimously admit-
ted a member of this society having been previously proposed by
Capt. David Coats.
Delivered 48S-4P to Capt. Thomas also 48s from Capt Stan-
wood.
Moved that every member that shall be admitted into this so-
ciety until November, 1777, shall pay ten dollars entrance money.
Voted in the negative.
Moved, that nine dollars be paid. Voted in the negative.
Moved, that eight dollars be paid for the above purpose.
Voted in the affirmative.
Voted, that Capt. Michael Hodge, Capt. James Hudson and
Capt. William Coombs be a committee to apply to the General
Court of this state for a charter for this society.
Capt. John Barnard was in town and not at the meeting of the
society by information of Capt. Friend.
April 3, 1777, voted, unanimously to admit Capt. John Fletch-
er as a member of the Marine Society, having been previously pro-
posed by Capt. William Wyer.
Voted, unanimously to admit Capt. Nicholas Johnson as a
member of the Marine Society, having been previously proposed
by Capt. Joseph Newman.
May 1, 1777, voted, to adjourn this meeting to tomorrow
evening at 7 o'clock.
May 2, 1777, Capt. James Brown was proposed by Capt. B.
Rogers to be admitted a member of this society.
Voted, to postpone the admittance of Capt. Brown until some
future meeting.
Voted, that the clerk shall hire a person to attend on the so-
ciety at such times as he shall think necessary.
2 .:!»•;.■■'
1 8 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
July 3, 1777, voted, to admit Capt. Amos Tappan a member of
the Marine Society, he having been previously proposed by Capt.
James Hudson.
Aug. 7, 1777, Capt. Moses Hale was excused his fine for July,
his wife being sick.
Oct. 2, 1777, voted unanimously that Capt. James Brown be
admitted a member of the Marine Society.
Nov. 6, 1777, election of officers.
Capt. James Hudson, Master.
Capt. Thomas Jones, Deputy Master.
Capt. Michael Hodge, treasurer.
Capt. Samuel Newhall Clerk.
ACT OF INCORPORATION.
State of Massachusetts-Bay, in the year of our Lord, 1777. An Act to incorpo-
rate James Hudson and others therein named, into a society by the name of
The Marine Society of Neivburypori, in the County of Essex, and State of
Massachusetts, in Ne'k? England. ,
Whereas, a considerable number of persons who are or have been
masters of ships or other vessels, have for several years past associated
themselves in the town of Newburyport; and the principal end of said
Society being to improve the knowledge of this coast, by the several
members upon their arrival from sea communicating their observations,
inwards and outwards, of the variations of the needle, soundings, courses,
distances, and all other remarkable things about it, in writing, to be lodged
with the Society, for making the navigation more safe, and also to re-
lieve one another and their families in poverty, or other adverse accidents
of life which they are more particularly liable to, and have for this end
raised a considerable common stock. And the said persons, associated as
aforesaid, finding themselves under difficulties and discouragements in
carrying on the said designs without an incorporation, and James Hudson
and others of them have petitioned the Great and General Court of this
State, in their present session, to be incorporated for the purposes afore-
said, and their intention appearing laudable, and deserving encouragement.
Be it enacted by the Council and House of Representatives in General
Court assembled, and by the authority of the same —
That James Hudson, Thomas Jones, Jonathan Parsons, William
Friend, Samuel Newhall, Michael Hodge, David Coates, William Stickney,
William Rogers, Joseph Stanwood, Moses Hale, William P. Johnson,
Nathaniel Nowell, Joseph Noyes, Henry Friend, Joseph Newman, Nich-
olas Johnson, Moses Brown, James Johnson, William Wyer, William
Nichols, William Coombs, Joseph Rowe, Thomas Thomas, Benjamin Rog-
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 9
ers, Edward Wigglesworth, Anthony Knap, Eleazer Johnson, Jeremiah
Pearson, Joseph Choate, John Barnard, James Nicoll, Robert Jenkins,
Peter Roberts, Joshua Hills, Andrew Giddings, John Fletcher and Amos
Tappan, the members of said society, be incorporated and made a body
politic, for the purposes aforesaid, by the name of the Marine Society at
Newburyport in New England, and that they and their associates and suc-
cessors, have perpetual succession by said name, and have a power of mak-
ing By-laws for the preservation and advancement of said body, nob repug-
nant to the laws of the Government with penalty either of disfranchise-
ment from said Society, or of a mulct not exceeding twenty shillings, or
without penalties as it shall seem most meet, and have leave likewise, to
make and appoint their common seal, and to be liable to be sued, and en-
abled to sue, and make purchases, and take donations of real and per-
sonal estate, for the purposes aforesaid, provided the rents of the real
estate together the interest of the personal estate shall not ex-
ceed the sum of eight hundred pounds per annum; and to man-
age and dispose of said estate as shall seem fit; and said Society shall
have a Master, Deputy Master, Treasurer, and Clerk and other officers
as shall think proper; and make their Seal, and make By-Laws; and said
officers shall continue until the last Thursday in November, one thousand
seven hundred and seventy-eightk on which day and ever after on the last
Thursday of November annually said Marine Society shall meet at New-
buryport, aforesaid,, to choose a Master, Deputy Master, Treasurer and
Clerk, and other officers as they shall think proper, and for the admission
of new members, which shall be done by a major vote of the members pres-
ent at said annual meeting and to make, alter, and annul their By-Laws; and
if by reason of any emergency the business of said annual meeting cannot
be completed on said day, they may adjourn once to a short day to finish it,
and no more. And said Society shall meet at Newburyport, on the last
Thursday in every month for all other business. And whenever the officers
of said society shall die or be disabled, or remove out of the government,
others shall be appointed or elected in their room, at the next monthly
meeting by a major part of the members present. And all instruments
which said society shall lawfully make, shall, when in the name of said
Society and pursuant to the votes thereof, and signed and delivered by the
Master, and sealed with their common seal, bind said Society and be valid
in law.
In the House of Representatives, October ioth, 1777. — This bill having been
read three several times passed to be engrossed. Sent up for concur-
rence. J. Warren, Speaker.
In Council, October nth, 1777. — This bill having been read a second time
passed a concurrence to be engrossed. John Avery, Dep'y Sec'y.
Consented to by the major part of the Council.
A true copy, — Attest, John Avery, Dep'y Sec'y.
Voted, that the thanks of this society be given to Jonathan
Greenleaf, Esq., for his agency in procuring their charter.
Voted, that Capt. James Hudson, Capt. Thomas Jones and
Capt. Michael Hodge be a committee to wait on Jonathan Green-
30 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
leaf, Esq., and return him the thanks of the society, agreeable to
their vote.
Capt. Thomas Jones presented to the society six shillings to
pay for the charter.
Voted, that Capt. William Coombs, Capt. Michael Hodge,
Capt. Samuel Newhall, Capt. William Wyer, Capt. David Coats,
be a committee to adjust and settle the accounts of the society
and let out their monies at interest.
Voted, to choose a committee to procure a code of laws for
the Marine Society.
Voted, that Capt. Jonathan Parsons, Capt. James Hudson,
Capt. Michael Hodge, Capt. James Johnson and Capt. William
Coombs be the committee for procuring the laws.
Voted, that the device of the common seal of this society be
an anchor, the motto, The Marine Society of Newburyport, 1772.
Voted, that the committee for revising the laws be the com-
mittee to procure the seal for the society.
Voted, to adjourn this meeting to next Wednesday, being the
15th November, at 5 p. m.
Nov. 13, 1777, 12 present.
The committee for adjusting the society's accounts report,
that they have taken Capt. James Hudson's bond for 128L-7S-3-4P
and three state notes of ten pounds each, being all the monies in
the society's hands amounting to 158L-7S-3-4P Voted to accept
the report.
The committee for procuring a code of laws for the society, re-
port that the following be adopted for the standing and bye laws.
That the old standing laws be adopted for our present laws
with the following alterations and additions, viz:
Article second altered to the last Thursday of every month for
the monthly meeting.
Fourth article with this alteration, that each member shall pay
into the box for the use of the society at the time of his entry
such a sum as shall be annualy agreed upon by the society.
That the second article of the bye laws be added to the third
article of the standing laws.
That the fourth article of the bye laws be erased.
Voted, that the treasurer receive the interest on the notes
when due.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 21
Voted, that the expense of 54 shillings for the business for the
annual meeting be paid by the society, that the clerk advance it and
receive his pay as received from the society.
Dec. 25, 1777, 7 present— 15 absent. No business.
Jan. 29, 1778, 12 present — 11 absent.
Two shillings from each member is charged toward payment
of 54 shillings for expenses on settling the annual account.
Feb. 26, 1778, 15 present— 13 absent.
Voted, that Capt. Michael Hodge and Capt. Thomas Jones be
a committee to examine the accounts of Ship Neptune.
May 28, 1778, voted, to excuse Capt. Joseph Rowe his dues
for ten months, having been taken by the enemy, which he did not
avail himself, but paid up his dues.
, Voted, that Capt. James Hudson, Capt. Joseph Stanwood,
Capt. Thomas Jones, Capt. David Coats and Capt. William
Coombs be a committee to make a survey of a ledge or rock called
the breaking rock, lying in the notch of Salisbury Beach near
Newberry bar, and make their report to the society.
July 30, 1778, voted, that the clerk be desired to write to Capt.
Barnard and Capt. Rogers respecting their non-attendance on the
society.
Sept. 24, 1778, whereas, Capt. Joseph Choate, a member of
this society, having been absent from the monthly meetings for ten
months and having been waited upon agreeable to the fifth article
of the bye laws of this society, therefore, voted, that he be es-
teemed unworthy of any dependance from the society and ex-
cluded from any benefit of the box unless he should apply for re-
admittance, and then if he has a majority of votes, he shall be re-
admitted, paying up his dues to the society and twenty shillings to
the box.
Voted, that the clerk send Capt. Choate a copy of the above
vote.
Nov. 26, 1778, election of officers.
Capt. James Hudson, Master.
Capt. Samuel Newhall, Deputy Master.
Capt. William Stickney, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Voted, that Capt. Jonathan Parsons, Capt. James Nicoll and
Capt. David Coats be a committee to settle the accounts of the so-
ciety and let the monies out on interest.
22 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, to admit Capt. Isaac Green Pearson a member of the
Marine Society.
Voted, to admit Capt. Enoch Pike a member of this Marine
Society.
Voted, to admit Capt. James Tileston a member of this Ma-
rine Society.
Voted, to admit Capt. John Calef a member of this Marine
Society.
Voted, that every person made a member of the Marine So-
ciety shall pay twelve pounds on his admittance.
Voted, that the society meet at Mr. Davenport's on their
usual nights of doing business for the ensuing year.
Capt. Joseph Choate requests Capt. Samuel Newhall to be
re-admitted into the Marine Society.
Voted, not to re-admit him.
Voted that every member shall pay six shillings for a fine for
non-attendance, in lieu of one shilling and four pence paid here-
tofore.
Voted, that every member shall pay three shillings for his
monthly dues, in lieu of eight pence as heretofore.
Voted, that this meeting be adjourned to Tuesday evening
next at 6 o'clock p. m.
Dec. 3, 1778.
Received Enoch Pike's entrance Li2-os-op
" " James Tileston's entrance Li2-os-op
" " Isaac Green Pearson's entrance Li2-os-op
L36-OS-OP
From the members L, 3-3s-6p
L39-3s-6p
John Calef, Nov. 26 Li2-os-op
Thomas Thomas, Nov. 26 L i-4s-op
Delivered to treasurer L,52-7s-6p
The committee chosen to settle the society's accounts and let
out the money at interest, report that they have not completed the
business they were chosen for, therefore, request to be dismissed
and another committee appointed.
Voted, that the committee for settling the accounts be dis-
missed.
Voted, that Capt. William Coombs, Capt. John Fletcher and
Capt. James Tileston be the committee for settling the accounts.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 23
Voted, that the thanks of this society be given to Capt. Thomas
Jones, Capt. Samuel Newhall, Capt. James Johnson and Capt.
William Wyer for their generous present of a hard dollar, each, for
a common seal for the society.
Voted, that the common seal be made silver.
Dec. 31, 1778. The committee chosen to settle the society's
accounts, report that they have attended to said business and find
the society to be worth one hundred ninety-two pounds, thirteen
shillings and 8 3-4 pence, including Capt. Hudson's bond of L128-
7S-3-4 p, which they have delivered to the treasurer as per ac-
count settled and on file.
Feb, 25, 1779, voted that the clerk be desired to call upon
Capt. Benjamin Rogers and demand the reason for his non-at-
tendance upon the society for eighteen months past, and call for
his dues.
March 25, 1779, voted, to excuse Capt. Giddings, 12 shillings,
4 pence, having been unsuccessful in his voyage.
Voted, to excuse Capt. Joseph Noyes, his fine, on account of
his father being sick.
June 25, 1779, it being the festival of St. John's, many of the
members are out of town celebrating the feast. No one present.
July 30, 1779, voted, that the expense of making the common
seal be paid by the society amounting to two hundred dollars, and
that the clerk be directed to charge each member his proportion
thereof.
Voted, that the treasurer be, and is hereby ordered to pay the
above sum of two hundred dollars to defray the above said ex-
penses.
Each of the thirteen present at this meeting paid their pro-
portion of this expense, viz : Li-ios, and L19-1OS was collected.
Aug. 26, 1779, voted, to excuse Capt. Enoch Pike his dues to
the society on account of his misfortune in being captured by the
enemy.
Sept. 24, 1779, voted, to excuse Capt. William Friend his dues
for seven months, being in the hands of the enemy.
Voted, to excuse Capt. Eleaser Johnson his dues for three
months, having been taken by the enemy.
Oct. 28, 1779, voted, to excuse Capt. Isaac G. Pearson his
dues for five months, having been captured and in the hands of the
enemy.
Nov. 25, 1779, voted, to excuse Capt. Joseph Rowe his dues,
he having been taken by the enemy.
24 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
The committee who were appointed by the society to take the
bearings, distances, etc., of a certain ledge lying off the notch of
Salisbury Beach, beg leave to report that they find the said ledge
to be about half a mile in extent, parts of which are nearly dry at
low ebb. The fort on Plumb Island from the centre of the ledge
bears S 13 W 1-2 W distance 3 miles. New fish house W 1-2 N.
Old fish house W N W. Great Boars Head N 13 E six miles dis-
tant. Pidgeon Hill S S E, six leagues distant. The distance of
the ledge from the shore, one mile in going to the northward you
may pass it safely by keeping the three houses to the eastward of
Boars Head just open.
Voted, that Capt. E. Wigglesworth and Capt. Michael Hodge
be a committee to make public the foregoing report in the news-
paper.
Voted, that the monthly dues be raised from three to twelve
shillings.
Voted, that the fines for non-attendance on the monthly meet-
ings be raised from six shillings to twenty-four shillings.
Voted, that every person admitted a member of this society
shall pay fifty pounds on his admission.
Voted, that Capt. William K'nap be admitted a member of
the Marine Society.
Officers elected:
Capt. James Hudson, Master.
Capt. William Coombs, Deputy Master.
Capt. Samuel Newhall, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Voted, that a committee be chosen to make an addition to
bye laws.
Voted, that Capt. James Tileston, Col. Edw. Wigglesworth
and Capt. John Fletcher, be a committee to settle the accounts of
the society and let out their monies at interest.
Voted, that the same committee with the addition of the clerk
be the committee on addition to the bye laws.
Voted, to meet at Col. Colman's house the year ensuing.
Voted, to adjourn this meeting to Thursday evening next at 6
o'clock p. m., to Col. Colman's.
Received from Capt. Nathaniel Nowell on account of dues L, 2-17S
Capt. Peter Roberts on account of dues L 4- 7s
Capt. William Knap for entrance and dues L50-12S
L57-i6s
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 25
A severe storm of snow prevented the members from meet-
ing on the adjournment, therefore no business was transacted.
Dec. 30, 1779. The committee appointed to make an addi-
tion to the bye laws beg leave to report the following, viz :
Whereas, there is no provision made in the bye laws of the
Marine Society to oblige the members living without the bounds
of Newburyport to attend on the monthly meeting or pay their
dues:
Therefore, voted, that every member of this society living, not
exceeding fifty miles distant from Newburyport, shall be held to
meet in the society once in every twelve months, and in case of
non-attendance, shall pay a fine of twenty-four dollars. Those
living within twenty-five miles, once in every six months or be
fined twelve dollars. Those living within ten mles, once in every
three months or be fined six dollars, and those living within two
miles to be under the same regulation as those members who live
within the limits of the town, any former law or useage notwith-
standing.
Voted, that if any member of this society shall neglect pay-
ing up his dues to the society for the term of twelve months, he
shall be cited by the president to appear at the next monthly
meeting and pay up his arrears, in case of non-compliance he shall
be liable to disfranchisement or mulct, as the society shall judge fit.
Voted, that the foregoing be adopted by the society and
added to the bye laws.
The committee appointed to settle the society's accounts and
let out their money at interest, report, that they have attended on
said business and find the society to be possessed of three hundred
forty-one pounds, three farthings, in cash, notes and bonds, which
they have delivered to the treasurer as follows :
A bond L128- 7&-3-4P
State notes L105-17S- p
Cash Lio6-i6s- p
L341- OS-3-4P
March 30, 1780, voted, to excuse Capt. Eleaser Johnson, 42
shillings of his dues, having been taken.
Voted, to excuse Capt. Jeremiah Pearson, 57 shillings of
his dues, having been taken.
Voted, to excuse Capt. William Stickney, 24 shillings, being
lame.
26 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, to excuse Capt. David Coats, 42 shillings, being cap-
tured.
Voted, to excuse Capt. Moses Brown, 104 shillings, being
captured.
April 27, 1780, voted that Capt. Newhall, Capt. Hudson and
Capt. Coombs be a committee to provide a place for the Marine
Society to meet in, in case Col. Colman should not be able to en-
tertain the society by reason of his leaving the house he now lives
in.
May 25, 1780, voted, to excuse Col. Wigglesworth, one fine, 24
shillings.
Voted, to excuse Capt. William Stickney, 12 shillings, hav-
ing been captured.
Voted, to excuse Capt. Enoch Pike, 54 shillings, having been
captured.
June 29, 1780, voted, to choose a committee to revise the bye
laws of the society, and to make report as soon as may be.
Voted, that Capt. Michael Hodge, Capt. Samuel Newhall and
Capt. David Coates, Col. Wigglesworth and Capt. William
Coombs be the committee.
July 27, 1780, voted to excuse Capt. Eleaser Johnson, his
dues, being taken.
Voted, to excuse Capt. James Johnson, his dues, being taken.
Voted, to excuse Capt. John Calef, his dues, being taken.
Aug. 31, 1780, collected L48-7S, dues. No other business.
Oct. 26, 1780, collected L23-8S, dues. No other business.
Nov. 30, 1780, collected L144-14S, dues and entrance money.
Voted, that Capt. William Farris be admitted a member.
Voted, that Capt. Ebenezer Stocker be admitted a member.
Voted, that Capt. John Coombs be admitted a member.
„ Voted that Capt. Abraham Toppan be admitted a member.
Officers chosen:
Capt. James Hudson, Master.
Capt. William Coombs, Deputy Master.
Capt. Samuel Newhall, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Voted, to choose a committee of three to settle the accounts
of the society for the year past.
Voted, that Capt. James Tileston, Col. E. Wigglesworth and
Capt. Samuel Newhall be the aforesaid committee.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 27
Voted, that the society will meet at Mr. Anthony Daven-
port's the ensuing year.
Voted, that each member of this society shall pay eight pence
in hard *mOney or eight dollars in paper money for his monthly
dues.
Voted, that each member shall pay one shilling and four pence
tin hard money or sixteen dollars in paper money for each and
every fine, due from any of the members, and those members living
out of town be held to pay in the like proportion as mentioned
in the bye laws.
Voted, that every person admitted a member of this society,
shall pay fifty pounds paper money for their admission.
Voted, that every person admitted a member after this even-
ing, shall pay eight hard dollars or in paper equivalent thereto.
Voted, to adjourn this meeting to Friday, 8th of December
next, to finish the business of the yearly meeting.
Dec. 8, 1780, the committee for settling the society's accounts
for the year past, not being ready to report, therefore, voted, to
adjourn to the next monthly meeting.
Dec. 28, 1780, collected L57-12S, dues.
Jan. 25, 1781, collected L46-4S, dues.
Feb. 22, 1 781, collected L36.
March 29, 1781, collected L143.
Voted that Capt. Thomas Jones, Capt. William1 Stickney and
Capt. James Nicoll be a committee to call upon the clerk for a list
of debts which they are directed to collect as soon as may be.
April 26, 1781, collected L153-16S, dues.
May 31, 1781, collected L192, dues.
June 28, 1781, the Master informs the society that in April
last, he had duly notified Capt. Joseph Stanwood and Capt. Benja-
min Rogers of their breach of the fifth article of the bye laws
agreeable to his duty, as pointed out in a clause of the same.
Voted, that it is the opinion of the members present, that all
the monthly dues and fines now in arrears or to be paid in future,
be received in specie only, unless it should be otherwise determined
at the next annual meeting.
Whereas, Capt. Joseph Stanwood has absented himself from
this society for six months, and has been notified thereof by the
president for the time being, in April last, and required to attend
the next meeting and give his reason therefor, which notification
he has not regarded.
♦Eight pence hard money equal to eight dollars paper money.
28 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Therefore, voted, that he be esteemed unworthy of any de-
pendence from the society and excluded from the benefit of the
box, and not re-admitted again without a strict compliance with
the fifth article of the bye laws.
Capt. Thomas Thomas appeared and gave his reasons for ab-
senting himself from the society for six months past, which was
voted satisfactory.
Voted, that Capt. Benjamin Rogers be mulcted in a fine of
twelve shillings in specie for neglecting a notification from the
president of the society and that he be informed thereof by the
president and to appear at the next meeting under penalty of dis-
franchisement.
July 26, 1 781, voted, that all letters sent by order of the so-
ciety be sealed by the common seal of the society.
Voted, that the officers of the society with Capt. Coats, be
a committee to visit on the president and accept from him a ma-
chine for making an impression with the common seal, which he
has generously offered to the society.
Voted, that Capt. William Coombs-Coats-Fletcher-Wiggles-
worth and Newhall be a committee to adjust and liquidate the
society's accounts and outstanding debts and report what sums
each member shall pay in specie.
Voted, that every member who shall absent himself six
months, be served by the president with the following form of a
letter :
Sir: — You having absented yourself from the society for six months
past, it being a breach of the fifth article of the bye laws of the society, I
am under an obligation to notify you to appear at the next meeting and
give your reason therefor.
Voted, that Capt. William Nichols and Capt. James Tileston
be cited by the president to appear at the next meeting and give
their reasons for absenting themselves for six months past.
Aug. 30, 1781, voted, to excuse Capt. William Knap his dues,
having been captured.
Capt. James Tileston appeared and gave his resaons for ab-
senting himself from the society for six months past, which were
voted to be satisfactory.
Voted, that Capt. Moses Hale be cited by the president to
appear at the next meeting and give his reason for absenting him-
self from the society for six months past.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 29
Sept. 28, 1 78 1, voted, to excuse Capt. Abraham Toppan four
months dues, having been taken.
Voted, to excuse Capt. John Calef six months dues, having
been taken.
Whereas, Capt. Benjamin Rogers has absented himself from
the society for twelve months past, and has been duly notified
thereof and mulcted in a fine for neglect thereof agreeable to a
bye law in that case made and provided for all those members liv-
ing without the bounds of Newburyport, to all which he has paid
no regard. Therefore, voted, that he be deemed unworthy of any
dependence from the society and excluded from the benefit of the
box, and not to be re-admitted again unless he strictly complies
with the fifth article of the bye laws.
Voted, that the thanks of the Marine Society be given to
Capt. Samuel Newhall for his present to the society, of an engine
for making an impression with their common seal.
Nov. 29, 1781, collected for dues Li3-i2s-np.
Voted, to excuse Capt. Nathaniel Newhall four months dues,
having been taken by the enemy.
Voted, unanimously, that the clerk be directed to draw out
the accounts of every person who has been a member of the Ma-
rine Society and discarded the same from whom there is money
due, and that the president be desired to present the name for pay-
ment, and in case of refusal or neglect of payment that the presi-
dent be and is hereby authorized and impowered in the name of
the society to commence a suit for the same in the law.
Voted, unanim-ously to admit Capt. William Armstrong a
member of the Marine Society.
Voted, unanimously to admit Capt. George Rappall a member
of the Marine Society.
Voted, to admit Capt. Benjamin Conner a member of the Ma-
rine Society.
Voted, to admit Capt. Philip Aubin a member of the Ma-
rine Society.
Officers chosen for the ensuing year :
Capt. James Hudson, Master.
Voted, to excuse Capt. Hudson from serving as Master the
ensuing year at his particular desire.
Capt. Samuel Newhall, Master.
Capt. William Coombs, Deputy Master.
Capt. John Fletcher, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
JO RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, that the thanks of this society be and hereby is given
to Capt. James Hudson for his good services as master of the so-
ciety, since its first institution to this time.
Voted, that Capt. Wiliam Wyer, Capt. James Tileston, Capt.
Anthony Knap, Moses Brown and David Coates be a committee
to settle the society's accounts and let out their money at interest.
Voted, that the society will meet at Mr. A. Davenport's the
ensuing year.
Voted, that whereas Capt. Moses Hale has absented himself
from the society for more than six months past and has been no-
tified thereof by the master and required to attend at the next
monthly meeting and give his reasons therefor, to which he
has paid no regard, therefore, that he be deemed unworthy of any
dependance from the society and excluded from the benefit of the
box, and be not re-admitted again without strictly complying with
the fifth article of the bye laws.
Voted to adjourn this meeting to Tuesday evening next.
Dec. 6, 1781, the committee appointed to settle the society's
accounts and let out their money at interest, beg leave to inform
the society that they are not ready to report, by reason of the
absence of the late treasurer and request further time.
Voted, that the committee be granted further time, to report
at the next meeting.
Voted, unanimously to admit Capt. Thomas Tracy a member
of the Marine Society.
Voted, that whereas Capt. John Barnard, a member of the
Marine Society has been present in the society but one evening
since his admission in the year 1772, has not paid his dues regu-
larly, is now greatly in arrears and in our opinion has been guilty
of a breach of the thirteenth article of the standing laws, and sus-
tains a character unworthy of a member of this society and also
has absconded from, and left his native country and taken part
with enemies thereof.
Therefore, that he the said John Barnard be deemed unworthy
of any dependance from the society and excluded from the benefit
of the box. »
Jan. 31, 1782, collected L4-5S-9P.
The committee appointed to settle the society's accounts and
let out their monies at interest, report that they have attended
such business and find the society to be possessed of a bond for
L128-7S-3-4 p cash in paper money, old emission, L516-12S twenty-
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 3 1
three dollars new emission money, two depreciation notes L196-4S-
4p and L207-OS-12P notes amount to L,i 05-1 7s, which are sent to
the treasury to be consolidated and L57-5S-4P in hard cash on Nov.
29, 1781.
A bond L128- 7S-0 3-4P
12 state notes L105-17S- p
Cash in specie L 37- Ss-4 p
Cash in paper, old emission L516-12S- p
Cash in paper, new emission L276-12S- p
Two depreciation notes L403- 4S-4 p
L1467- 5s-8 3-4P
Voted, that the society will sell the twenty-three dollars new
emission to any member present who shall make the highest offer
for it.
Voted, that Capt. Tileston is entitled to receive the twenty-
three dollars, new emission, he paying the clerk 39 shillings in hard
money.
Feb. 28, 1782, voted, to excuse Capt. William P. Johnson four
months dues, being unfortunate.
Capt. Thomas Thomas appeared in the society agreeable to
the summons sent him by the president.
Oct. 31, 1782, voted to excuse Capt. Joseph Newman two
months fine, being taken.
Voted, to excuse Capt. Eleaser Johnson three months fine,
being taken.
Voted, to excuse Capt. Enoch Pike two months fine, being
taken.
Voted, that a supper be provided at the next annual meeting.
Voted, that Col. Wigglesworth be caterer to provide supper at
said meeting.
Ordered, that Capt. Thomas Thomas be summoned.
Nov. 28, 1782, voted, to excuse Capt. Armstrong one months
dues, being taken.
Officers chosen:
Capt. William Coombs, Master.
Capt. David Coates, Deputy Master.
Capt. John Fletcher, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Voted, to choose a committee of seven, who are desired to
frame an article to be added to the bye laws of this society, respect-
ing any member or other person meeting with misfortune at sea
by the loss of their vessel or any other accident happening to him
32
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
or them, which shall make it necessary for the society to inquire
into, and that they be ready to present to the society at the ad-
journmlent for their approbation.
Committee, Messrs. James Hudson, William Coombs, David
Coates, Edward Wigglesworth, John Fletcher, Michael Hodge and
Joseph Noyes.
Voted, that every person who shall be admitted into this so-
ciety as a member, shall pay six pounds into the box for the use
of the society.
Voted, to adjourn this meeting to Thursday next, 6 o'clock
in the afternoon.
Dec. 5, 1782, met according to adjournment.
The committee appointed to let out the Marine Society money
at interest, beg leave to report that they received from the treas-
urer, Capt. John Fletcher, forty-two pounds, sixteen shillings and
nine pence, which they have improved at interest and are now
ready to deliver the treasurer the principle and eleven pounds,
twelve shillings and three pence which they have gained by im-
provement, signed William Wyer, chairman of said committee.
Voted, to accept the report of the committee who were ap-
pointed to let out the society's money at interest.
Voted, that the thanks of this society be and hereby is given
to the committee aforesaid for their particular attention to said
business.
Voted, that Capt. William Coombs, David Coates, Edward
Wigglesworth, William P. Johnson and William Wyer be a com-
mittee to settle the society's accounts and to let out the monies
at interest.
Voted, that the master of this society be and hereby is desired
to give in the accounts of those members who have been dis-
charged the society, to an attorney in order to be recovered
before the next meeting, unless prevented by payment.
Voted, that the society will meet at Mr. Anthony Davenport's
the ensuing year if agreeable to him.
Your committee who were directed to frame an article to be
added to the bye laws of this society respecting any member
thereof, or others meeting with misfortunes at sea, either by cap-
ture, shipwreck or other accidents which may make it necessary
that an enquiry may be had, beg leave to make the following re-
port.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 33
That, whereas many inconveniences have arisen to masters of ships,
and others for the want of proper persons to make enquiry into the con-
duct of said master, when they have been unfortunate at sea by the loss
of their vessels, either by the enemy, the seas, or other accidents,
Therefore resolved, not only for the encouragement and support of
such ship masters, members of this society, but also the masters of ves-
sels belonging to this town that have been so unfortunate as to loose
their ships by the enemy, shipwrecked or other dangers of the seas, that
they have liberty at any time within one month after their arrival home,
to lay the state of their case before the Marine Society, who from their
profession and experience will be undoubtedly the best judges, whether
said master did discharge the trust reposed in him with ability and pro-
priety when such accident took place, or not, to the end that after an im-
partial enquiry into the circumstances of such misfortune, if it should
appear to said society that said master did what an honest experienced
master ought to have done to have prevented the same. In that case such
master whether belonging to the society or not shall have a right to de-
mand a certificate signed by the master of said society and sealed with
their common seal, setting forth that his conduct when such misfortune
took place, has been critically and impartially enquired into, and that they
are of the opinion that his conduct has been that of a faithful and skill-
ful master and seaman.
Also, resolved, that all applications by masters of vessels shall be
lodged with the clerk, who shall lay the same before the society at their
next meeting, when the society shall proceed to elect by ballot a committee
of enquiry consisting of seven persons, who shall diligently and carefully
investigate the time, manner and cause of the loss of any vessel mentioned
in such application, and report the same to the society at their next meet-
ing, in writing, who shall thereupon; determine upon the merrits of the re-
spective persons applying according to the dictates of trutih and justice.
Also resolved, that the following be the form of a certificate to be granted
when demanded, as before mentioned.
To all persons, whom it doth or may concern. The Marine Society
of Newburyport, in the county of Essex and commonwealth of Massachu-
setts, sends greeting.
Whereas, A. B., late master of the ship captured or lost (as
the case may be) on the day of has solicited an enquiry
into his conduct in navigating or fighting (as the case may be) his ship,
we have made a critical and impartial enquiry into his conduct and are of
opinion that he acted as a faithful and skillful master and seaman, or a brave
man (as the case may be) and that the loss of his said vessel ought not at
all to impeach his conduct.
In witness whereof we have caused our seal to be hereunto affixed and
to be signed by the master of our society.
Given at Newburyport, this day 0/ 17 — .
JAMES HUDSON, Chairman of said Committee.
Voted, unanimously to accept the foregoing report and order
that it be added to the bye-laws of this society.
34 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Dec. 26, 1782, whereas, Capt. Benjamin Rogers has made ap-
plication to this society to be re-admitted, manifesting his con-
sent to pay his dues and 20 shillings to the box,
Voted, unanimously to accept of Capt. Benjamin Rogers as a
member of this society, and that his absence heretofore therefrom,
shall in no wise effect him in any privileges he otherwise would
have enjoyed.
Voted, that the society will sell the two depreciating notes to
any member for the most that can be had.
Voted, that Michael Hodge be entitled to receive the above two
notes, he paying into the box fifteen dollars.
Voted, that whereas, Capt. Thomas Thomas has absented
himself from the society, and has been summoned agreeable to the
bye-laws thereof, to which he has paid no defferance, therefore he
be esteemed unworthy of any dependance upon the box and ex-
cluded from the benefit thereof.
Voted, that Capt. James Tileston be summoned agreeable to
the laws of the society for absenting himself six months therefrom.
Voted, to accept of the following report of the committee who
were appointed to settle the society's accounts and let their monies
at interest.
Your committee whom you have appointed and authorized to settle the
society's accounts and to let their monies at interest, beg leave to make the
following report, viz: that they have attended on the business, examined
the clerk's books and find the accounts properly stated, rightly cast and
well avouched, and that the treasurer's accounts do correspond therewith.
They also find that the society has gained by interest for the year past,
nineteen pounds, six shillings, and that the interest on a consolidated State
note of ninety-seven pounds, one-sixth is now due, and they also find that
twenty-eight pounds of the principal of Capt. Hudson's bond has been
paid, therefore they have taken a new bond and security for one hundred
pounds and that the state of the society's funds now stand as follows:
Capt. James Hudson, bond, dated Nov. 14, 1782, Lioo- os-op
One consolidated State note, Dec. 1781, L 97- is-6p
One note of hand L 30- s- p
One note of hand L 60- s- p
Cash in specie in the teasurer's hands L 18-17S-9P
Paper money of the old emission L516-12S-OP
Two depreciating notes L403- 4S-4P
Specie L305-19S-3P
Your committee would likewise beg leave to report to the society that
in their opinion it would be more for the benefit of the funds to sell the
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 35
two depreciating notes for the most they will fetch, and do recommend it
accordingly.
Newburyport, Dec. 26, 1782.
WILLIAM COOMBS,
DAVID COATS,
EDWARD WIGGLESWORTH,
WILLIAM WYER,
Committee.
Jan. 30, 1783, Capt. James Tileston having informed the so-
ciety in a letter to the president that he was indispensibly pre-
vented from obeying their summons, therefore, voted, that he be
excused for this evening.
Whereas, Capt. Benjamin Conner a member of this society is
a prisoner at New York where he has been confined for a long
time and in no prospect of being exchanged, therefore, voted, that
a committee of five persons be chosen who are desired and di-
rected by this society, immediately to adopt the most efficacious
ways and means in order to procure his release and enlargement.
Voted, that Capt. William Coombs, Capt. J. Nichols, Capt.
Hodge, Capt. Fletcher, Captain Coats be the above committee.
Feb. 28, 1783, voted, Capt Joseph RoWe be excused 5 months
dues, being taken.
Voted, Capt. Isaac G. Pearson be excused two fines.
Voted, Capt. George Rapall be excused 3 months dues, being
cast away.
Voted, Capt. William Noyes be excused one fine and 3 months
dues.
Voted, that the committee appointed to let out the monies at
interest, be a committee to distribute a collection made this even-
ing for the purpose of relieving such of the society as may be in
immediate want. The collection amounted to 58 1-2 dollars.
March 28, 1783, whereas, the bye-laws of this society appear
to be inadequate for every purpose conducive to the welfare of
said society, particularly for the recovery of their debts, therefore
Voted, that Capt. William Coombs, Coll. Wigglesworth and
Capt. David Coats be a committee to revise, alter and amend the
bye-laws of the society and to report their doings as soon as may
be.
April 24, 1783, voted, that Capt. Benjamin Conner be excused
8 shillings, being for his dues whilst absent and a prisoner with the
enemy.
36 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Capt. Thomas Thomas appeared and manifested his desire to
be re-admitted into the society, and a careful complyance with the
rules and regulations respecting the same. Therefore, voted, that
Capt. Thomas Thomas be re-admitted into this society and that
he be and is entitled to all the privileges and benefits of the. same.
Aug. 27, 1783, voted, that Capt. Hudson be immediately called
upon by the committee for letting out the society's money, for the
balance now in his hands, and be informed that it is expected by
the society that he does positively pay it into their hands on or
before the next meeting, which will prevent them from being
under the necessity of calling for it in a more disagreeable way.
Sept. 25 ,1783, the committee appointed to wait on Capt. Hud-
son to inform him of a vote passed last evening, report that they
waited upon him with a copy of said vote and that he informed
them that he had a prospect of paying it agreeable to the above-
said vote and should exert himself therefor.
Whereas, Capt. James Hudson has neglected to comply with
the vote of the Marine Society of the last meeting presented to him
by their committee, and has not given any reason that is satisfac-
tory to the society therefor, therefore voted, that it is exceedingly
unsatisfactory to the society and that "the aforesaid committee be
desired to inform him therewith, and that they be and hereby are
impowered and directed to procure the money due from Capt.
Hudson in the most expeditious manner, and also that the master
of the said society be impowered and directed by advice of the said
committee, to take any necessary steps in the name of the society
in a legal way to recover the same.
Voted, that Capt. Fletcher be desired to send a State note of
the society, in his hands down to the State Treasurer, and recover
the interest thereon.
Oct. 30, 1783, whereas, it appears to the Marine Society of
Newburyport, essentially necessary for the preservation and safety
of the navigation into the river Merrimack, that two beacons be
erected on Plumb Island to serve as marks for coming in over the
bar as well as to hoist lights on in the night, and also that it
would be beneficial to have suitable signals provided in order to
hoist on the appearance of any vessel supposed to be bound in
over the bar,
Therefore, resolved, that it be earnestly recommended to the
gentlemen in trade to provide suitable ways and means to have
the above effected and the society will engage to lend their assis-
tance.
Voted, that a committee of five be chosen to carry the above re-
solve in effect.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 37
Voted, that Capt. William Coombs, Col. Wigglesworth, Capt.
Coats, Capt. Brown and Capt William P. Johnson be the com-
mittee.
Nov. 27, 1783, officers elected:
Capt. William Coombs, Master.
Capt. David Coats, Deputy Master.
Capt. John Fletcher, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Voted, that the thanks of the society be given to the com-
mittee appointed to treat with Capt. James Hudson, for the strict
regard they have paid to the dignity of the society in taking a
legal way for the recovery of their just dues.
Voted, that Capt. Stocker, Capt. Tileston and Capt. James
Nicoll be a committee to settle the account of the Marine Society.
Voted, that Capt. William Coombs, Capt Coats and Col.
Wigglesworth be a committee to examine into the merits of
Mr. Tufts' composition and answer that gentleman.
Voted, that Capt. William Russell be admitted as a member
of the Marine Society.
Voted, that the Marine Society meet at the house of Mr.
Anthony Davenport the year ensuing.
The committee appointed to carry a resolve of the Marine Society re-
specting the erecting of beacons, etc., on Plumb Island into execution, beg
leave to report that they have attended on the business assigned them,
have erected two beacons on Plumb Island, which in their opinion will com-
pletely answer to serve as marks for the conducting in any vessel over
the bar by day in safety. They have made provision for a dark night
also, by two lanterns so constructed as with ease to be hoisted at any time
and on any occasion which they have not a doubt will fully answer the no-
ble intention of the society and be productive of the greatest advantages
to the navigation of the river. They have ordered proper signals, which
are to be hoisted on the appearance of any vessel standing into the bay.
They have also appointed a person and committed to him the care of the
signals and lights and agreed with him as to his perquisites and given him
the following directions, viz:
A GOOD LOOKOUT TO BE KEPT.
As soon as a vessel is discovered in the offing so as to distinguish her,
the proper signal is to be hoisted which is to be as follows:
An ensign for a ship.
A jack for a snow.
A pendant for a brig.
A burgee for a topsail schooner or sloop.
The signal is to be kept up until the vessel has passed the fort or an-
chored at the bar.
38 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
If any vessel should be in the bay or at anchor at the bar in the after
part of the day, and the tide not suitable for coming in before night comes
on, the lights are to be hoisted and kept up until one hour ebb, then to
be extinguished. Every vessel on whose account the lights are hoisted
are to be chargeable with the expense thereof. Every vessel other than
coasting vessels is to pay six shillings to the person who shall hoist the
lights for her as a compensation in full for his trouble and coasting ves-
sels are to pay two shillings each, only.
Your committe have also attended to the expense which has accrued
in accomplishing the business, have collected the bills and made an as-
sessment of the sum total upon such persons and in such sums as appeared
to them to be just and equal, the copy thereof we now present for your ap-
probation. All which your committee beg leave to submit to the society's
consideration and should the execution of their trust meet with the concur-
rence of the society, your committee will feel themselves amply compen-
sated for their time and trouble.
Newburyport, Nov. 26, 1783.
WILLIAM COOMBS, Chairman.
Voted, unanimously, that the foregoing report of the com-
mittee appointed to carry into effect the resolves of the last meet-
ing respecting the erecting of beacons, etc., on Plumb Island, be
accepted.
Voted, that the society has a high sense of the exertions and
good conduct of the committee aforesaid in so completely carry-
ing into effect the intentions of the society by their resolves of the
last meeting, and that the thanks of this society be and hereby is
given them therefor.
Voted, that the former committee be continued a committee
to carry into execution the publication of such direction as they
may find necessary for the benefit of the navigation of this river
and the public in general.
Voted, that the meeting be and it is hereby adjourned to
Tuesday, the 9th of December, six o'clock p. m., to finish the bus-
iness of the annual meeting.
Dec. 9, 1783, that the following report of the committee ap-
pointed to settle the society's accounts be accepted, viz :
That they have examined the clerk's books and find the account
properly stated, rightly cast, and well avouched, and that the treasurer's
accounts do correspond therewith. They also find that the society has
added to their stock for the year past sixty-six pounds, three shillings and
eight pence, and that the interest on the consolidated state note of ninety-
seven pounds, 1-16 is now due and that the state of the society's funds now
stand as follows:
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 39
Capt. James Hudson's bond Lioo- os- op
One consolidated note L 97- is- 6p
Hawley's bond L 26- s- p
Cash in treasurer's hands Li55-ns-iip
L378-13S- 5P
Paper money of old emission L516-12S
EBEN STOCKER,
JAMES TILESTON,
JAMES NICHOLL,
Committee.
The committee appointed to inform Mr. John Tufts of the
opinion of the society respecting a composition of his laid before
them, have reported the following draught of a letter which was
read and approved by the society, viz :
Newburyport, 3rd December, 1783.
Sir: — Being a committee appointed by the Marine Society of Newbury-
port to inform you that the society after having duly attended to the ex-
periment which has been made on the composition, which you have the
honor to be the author, are of the opinion that it will answer the salutary
purpose for which it was designed, viz: that of preventing the bottoms of
vessels from being ruined by the eating of worms. They also are of the
opinion that a further tryall in order to reduce it to a certainty is necessary.
They would beg leave to recommend that a number of boards might be
prepared, one-half of each to be payed with the composition, and the other
half left bare, and those sent by different vessels to different ports, which
must of course give it its greatest proof, they are highly pleased with the
genius that is already discovered and can scarce have a doubt, but that it
will be productive of the greatest advantages to the public as well as emol-
uments to the author. The society will ever be ready to give every
encouragement to men of genius, especially in marine matters particularly
to Mr. Tufts in this instance, and are ready to confer with him by their
committee to digest and plan by which they may be useful to him.
We are sir, in behalf of the Marine Society,
Your most obedient servant,
WILLIAM COOMBS,
Committee in behalf of the Marine Society.
Voted, that Capt. Fletcher be a committee to let out the
society's money for the ensuing year.
Voted, that this society shall not consist of more than forty-
five members at one time.
Jan. 29, 1784, voted, that Capt. William Coombs, David
Coates, Edward Wigglesworth, William P. Johnson and Moses
Brown be a committee to devise ways and means to support the
lights on Plumb Island as soon as may be and make report to the
society at their next meeting.
4o
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
March 25, 1784, the committee appointed to devise ways and
means to support the lights on Plumb Island, beg leave to report
that the gentlemen of trade in this town have agreed to take the
lights under their direction and have made provisions therefor.
July 29, 1784, voted, that a committee of inquiry be chosen at
the request of Capt. Thomas Tracey and agreeable to the bye
laws of the society, to examine into the conduct of said Tracey
during his late voyage, and make report thereof in writing at the
next meeting.
Voted, that Capt. William Coombs, Capt. John Fletcher, Col.
Wigglesworth, Capt. Michael Hodge, Capt. James Johnston, Capt.
William P. Johnson and Capt. Nicholas Johnson be the aforesaid
committee.
Aug. 26, 1784, the committee who were appointed to make
inquiry into the conduct of Capt. Thomas Tracey during his late
voyage, beg leave to make the following report, that they find the
several following articles of charge or complaint are made against
him:
1st. That he did run his owner into a very extraordinary ex-
pense at Baltimore (not having any orders therefor) by putting a
new deck to his ship which caused a long detention after peace
and occasioned a train of misfortunes during the voyage.
2nd. His want of proper care and attention to his provisions
and water during his voyage to Europe, his conduct in going to,
and detention whilst at Ireland.
3rd. His disbursements and detention whilst at Gottenburg.
4th. Detention of his letters, fourteen days after his arrival.
Your committee proceeded to examine and inquire of Capt.
Tracey the reasons for his conduct in the several articles of charge
above written, to which he made the following answers :
1st. Capt. Tracey 's reasons for his conduct in laying a deck
upon his ship at Baltimore were, that Mr. Purveyance, the gentle-
man to whom he was addressed to receive his cargo from, and
whom he really considered in the same light with respect to the
direction and management of his vessel there, as he did his owners
in Newburyport, strongly advised him thereto.
2nd. That his going into Ireland was occasioned by the want
of bread and water, which is fully set forth in his protest. Your
committee wjould here beg leave to state some facts, as they ap-
peared by examination of the mate and the log book, that Capt.
Tracy did on the 31st January, 1783, send on board his ship two
thousand and twenty pounds of bread, which in addition to be-
tween three and four hundred weight of bread then on board
amounted to about twenty-four hundred weight. That sixteen men
were victualled upon an average from that time to the first day of
July, the day of his arrival in Ireland, which completed a term of
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 4 1
one hundred and fifty-two days, which on calculation is found to be
short of one pound per man per day, the propriety of which the
society must be judge of.
That his detention in Ireland was occasioned by being obliged
to go as far as Cork for a supply of bread, not any being to be pro-
cured nearer which he says might have been performed in five days,
but being within one day's ride of his parents, from whom he had
been absent seventeen years, he was induced to pay them a visit.
He was absent from his vessel fifteen days.
3rd. Your committee did not take up the third charge, viz:
that of detention and disbursements while at Gottenburg, they
conceived it unnecessary. .
4th. Capt. Tracey says that the detainment of the letters were
owing to their being misplaced through the negligence of his boy,
that he really supposed that he had delivered all he had in possess-
ion when off the bar. The instant he was undeceived he carried
and delivered them himself to the concerned.
By order of the committee,
Signed, WILLIAM COOMBS, Chairman.
Newbury port, Aug. 26, 1784.
' 'Voted, that the discussion of the report of the committee of
inquiry on Capt. Tracey's conduct be deferred to the next meeting.
Sept. 30, 1784, voted, that the committee appointed in Novem-
ber, 1783, to examine into the merits of Mr. Tufts' composition, be
a committee to inform that gentleman, that from some late tryalls
they have had on his composition, they are very diffident of its
fully answering those salutary purposes which was intended, at
present cannot give it that recommendation which Mr. Tufts would
wish for.
Voted, to defer acting on the report of the committee of in-
quiry on Capt. Tracey's conduct during his late voyage, until the
next meeting.
Oct. 28, 1784, voted, that it is the opinion of the society that a
supper be provided for them at the annual meeting.
Voted, that Capt. Russell and Capt. Aubin be caterers for the
purpose above said.
Nov. 25, 1784, officers chosen:
Capt. William Coombs, Master.
Capt. David Coats, Deputy Master.
Capt. John Fletcher, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Voted, that Capt. Ebenezer Stocker, James Nicoll and Wil-
liam Stickney be a committee to settle the society's accounts and
to let out their moneys at interest.
4*
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe and Capt. Peter LeBreton were unan-
imously accepted of as members of this society.
Voted, that seven pounds, four shillings shall be paid by every
person who is admitted a member of this society at the annual
meeting.
Voted, that the society will meet on their monthly meetings
for the ensuing year at Mr. Davenport's.
Ordered, that Capt. Thomas Thorrtas be summoned in the
usual form for absenting himself for six months past.
Voted, to adjourn this meeting to Thursday evening, the 9th
of December next.
Being met according to adjournment.
Capt. Coates, Capt. William Coombs, Col. Wigglesworth,
Capt. James Nicoll, and Capt. William P. Johnson were chosen by
ballot, a committee for the management and disposition of the es-
tate of the society.
Voted, that the above committee be and hereby are directed
to have the new code of laws printed, provided it shall appear to
them to be a necessary measure.
At a meeting of the Marine Society of Newburyport, in New
England, holden at Newburyport, in the county of Essex, on the
ninth day of December A. D., 1784, by adjournment from the last
Thursday in November last agreeably to the powers vested in the
said society by their Charter of Incorporation.
The society taking into consideration their several bye laws
heretofore made and apprehending the inexpediency of some of
them and proposing a general revision of them with a view to ren-
der them more simple and compendious passed the following votes
and enacted the following laws.
Whereas, in and by the charter incorporating this society,
provision is made that they may make bye laws not repugnant to
the laws of the government, for the preservation and advancement
of the said society, with penalty either of disfranchisement from the
said society or of a mulct not exceeding twenty shillings, or without
penalties as shall seem most meet, and that the said society should
meet at said Newburyport on the last Thursday in November, an-
nually, for divers purposes and amongst other things, to elect their
master, deputy master, treasurer and clerk and to make, alter and
annul their bye laws with liberty to adjourn to a short day for com-
pleting the business left unfinished at the annual meeting. This
society, therefore to carry into execution the powers granted
them by their charter and to provide for their preservation and ad-
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 43
vancement, do make and enact the regulations and bye laws here-
after mentioned.
Article ist. It is enacted and ordered by the society that at
all meetings of the society, the master, if present, shall preside, if
he is absent, the deputy master shall preside if present ; in case of
his absence, the treasurer shall preside if present, but if not, the eld-
est member present shall preside, and a meeting of the society
shall be held at Newburyport, aforesaid, at such place as shall from
time to time be agreed upon by the society, on the last Thursday in
every month in each and every year. The meetings to be opened
by the moderator at six o'cock, p. m., from the twenty-first day of
September to the twenty-first day of March, and at all other times
of the year at seven o'clock, p. m.
Article 2nd. And it is further enacted and ordered that every
member who is an inhabitant of the town of Newburyport, or who
lives within two miles of any part thereof, shall attend every
meeting of the society, and be present at the opening of it
by the moderator, and if any such member so inhabiting
the said town, or within two miles thereof, shall neglect or
refuse to attend as aforesaid without reasonable excuse to be al-
lowed by the society, he shall forfeit and pay to the society for
their use, the sum of one shilling and four pence for every such ne-
glect or refusal, and every member who does not live within the
said town, nor within two miles thereof, but lives within fifty miles
of the said town, shall attend a meeting of the society once in every
year at the least, and be present at the opening thereof or forfeit
the like sum for the use of the society, without reasonable excuse
as aforesaid, and every member who does not live in the same town,
nor within two miles thereof, but lives within twenty-five miles
thereof, shall attend a meeting of the said society once in every six
months at the least, and be present at the opening thereof, or for-
feit the like sum for the use of the society without reasonable ex-
cuse as aforesaid ; and every member who does not live in the said
town nor within two miles thereof, but lives within ten miles of
the said town, shall attend a meeting of the society once in every
three months at least, and be present at the opening thereof or for-
feit the like sum to the society for their use, without reasonable
excuse as aforesaid, provide nevertheless, that no excuse shall be
deemed a reasonable one, unless the same be necessary absence,
sickness, or the infirmities of old age.
44
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Article 3rd. And it is further enacted and ordered, that no
person shall be electel a member of this society unless at the time
of his proposed election he is or hath been Commander or Master of
a vessel, nor shall such election be made but at the annual meeting
of the society on the last Thursday of November, provided, not-
withstanding the society may for special and weighty reasons
elect any person not qualified as aforesaid, a member, if the rea-
sons alleged therefor shall be adjudged sufficient by two-thirds of
the members present at the monthly next preceding that in which
such election is proposed to be made.
Article 4th. And it is further enacted and ordered that pre-
vious to the election of any person as a member of this society, he
shall be proposed to the society as a candidate for such election by
one of their members at some one of their monthly meetings, at
least one month before their annual meeting.
Article 5th. That all elections shall be conducted in the man-
ner following : After the candidate is named, the clerk shall write
the word yea on as many slips of paper as there are members pres-
ent, and after rolling them up, give one to each member. The clerk
shall write the word nay on the like number of slips of paper, and
distribute them in like manner, each member shall then declare his
vote by giving to the moderator of the meeting such paper rolled
up as he shall think proper, and the moderator after having collect-
ed all the votes, shall unroll the papers in the presence of the mem-
bers, and the candidate shall be duly elected, provided a major part
of the votes are yea, otherwise not ; and if duly elected, the clerk
shall ex-officio give him notice thereof.
Article 6th. And it is further enacted and ordered that every
member upon his election into the society shall pay to their treas-
uer the sum of seven pounds, four shillings for the use of the so-
ciety: and in case of the refusal of any member, for the term of
one month after his election, he shall be disfranchised and excluded
the society by the major vote of the members present, at any
of their monthly meetings, provided notwithstanding, the society
may increase the said sum to be paid upon admission from time to
time at any of the annual meetings, as the state of their funds shall
require.
Article 7th. And it is further enacted and ordered that every
member of the society shall at every monthly meeting pay the sum
of eight pence to their treasurer for their use, and if any member of
the society neglect or refuse to pay the said sum at any meeting
THB MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 45
aforesaid or within thirty days after, he shall forfeit and pay to the
society for their use, the sum of six shillings for every such neglect
or refusal — provided nevertheless the society may at any of their
monthly meetings remit the said forfeitures to any delinquent mem-
ber, upon his paying to their treasurer all the monthly payments
aforesaid, he shall be in arrear. And provided further, that the
society may at any of their monthly meetings excuse any member
from making the said monthly payments upon his application there-
for, provided the person so applying shall in the opinion of
the society be rendered incapabe through misfortune or losses of
paying the same.
Article 8th. And it is further enacted and ordered, that if any
members shall neglect to make his monthly payment aforesaid, for
the space of six months without being excused therefrom and with-
out paying the several penalties incurred by such neglect, the soci-
ety may at any of their monthly meetings disfranchise him and ex-
clude him their society, but it is nevertheless enacted and ordered
that until such disfranchisement takes place, the delinquent mem-
ber may be prosecuted in the law for the recovery of the penalties
aforesaid.
Article 9th. And it is further enacted and ordered, that if any
members shall refuse to pay any penalties or forfeiture incurred by
him by his breach of any of the bye laws of the society, and the same
shall be recovered of him by prosecution in any of the courts of the
law, the society may at any of their monthly meetings held after
such recovery so had, disfranchise and exclude from the society
such refractory member for his contumacy in refusing to submit to
the bye laws of the society.
Article 10th. And it is further enacted and ordered, that all
penalties and forfeiture incurred by the breach of any bye laws of
the society and all the monthly payments aforesaid shall enure to
the society and become part of their estate, and that the whole es-
tate of the society shall be managed and disposed of for their benefit
by a committee to be chosen by ballot every year at the annual
meeting of the society in November, which committee shall at all
times conform themselves to the direction of the society in the
management and disposition of their estate. Provided nevertheless,
the society may at any of their monthly meetings remove from
office any of the said committee at their pleasure, or except of the
resignation of any of them, at any of their monthly meetings, fill
up all vacancy in the said committee by ballot.
^8 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
court competent therefor, by the treasurer in the name and for the
use of the society.
Article 20th. And it is further enacted and ordered, that
every member present in the town of Newburyport at the time of
the funeral in that town, of any deceased member, shall punctually
and reasonably attend such funeral upon notice given him by order
of the master, if in town, if not, by order of the deputy master, if
in town, and if not, by order of the treasurer, upon pain of for-
feiting to the society for non-attendance the sum of three shillings,
unless such members shall be disabled from attending such fu-
nerals, by ill health or the infirmities of old age, and the charge of
giving such notice shall be defraid by the society.
Article 21st. And whereas many inconveniences may arise
to masters of vessels, who may be charged with cowardice, inca-
pacity or misconduct in conducting the vessels and commerce in-
structed to them for want of an inquiry into their conduct by suit-
able persons, therefore it is further enacted and ordered, that in all
such cases the master so charged, may in writing state the charge
to the society and pray an inquiry into his conduct at any of their
monthly meetings, and the society as soon as conveniently may be,
shall appoint by ballot a committee of five persons to inquire into
the conduct of the person so charged, which committee shall after
a full and proper hearing report to the society all the facts relating
to such charge for their consideration, who shall thereupon deter-
mine the grounds and foundation of such charge, and the propriety
or impropriety of the conduct of the person so applying, and if the
society shall acquit him, he shall have such certificate thereof as
the society shall direct, under their common seal and signed by
their master.
Article 22nd. And it is recommended to every member of this
society to be careful in his observation inwards and outwards of
variations of the needle, the soundings, courses and distances, and
of all remarkable things about this coast and communicate in writ-
ing to this society from time to time such things as he shall judge
serviceable to the community, to be examined and digested by a
committee appointed by the society for that purpose and lodged
with the clerk of the society in order to be recorded in the records
of said society.
Article 23rd. That the clerk of the society shall from time to
time keep a fair and just account of alimonies paid into the treasury
and delivered out, and to whom, and when, and shall read over
° a
O £
* g
2 o
5-> i
fa 3
w o
o o
8 3
M
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NHWBURYPORT 49
these laws distinctly to every new member or members that shall
be admitted into the society at their admission or first appearance
into said society, and as often at other times as the society shall
think proper.
Dec. 30, 1784, voted, that Capt. William Wyer be agent and
attorney of this society for the purpose of receiving any dividends
of Massachusetts bank stock, which now are or may be due to the
society and upon the receipt thereof to give due acquittance there-
of, and also to represent the society at any meeting of the proprie-
tors of said stock and there in the name of this society to vote and
do and transact any business which any proprietor of said stock
can do when personally present.
The said W. Wyer to continue agent and attorney of this
society for the purposes aforesaid, until the society shall order
otherwise.
Jan. 27, 1785, the committee whom you have chosen for the
management and disposition of the society's estate, beg leave to
report a state thereof, viz: that they have examined the clerk's
books and find them properly stated, well avouched and rightly
cast, that the treasurer's accounts are agreeable thereto, and that
the estate consists of a number of securities, together with specie
and paper as follows:
Capt. James Hudson's bond Lioo- s- p
One state bond L 97- is- 6p
Hawley's bond L 26- s- p
One share in Massachusetts bank L150- s p
Cash in specie L 53- 9S- 8p
L426-1IS- 2p
Paid in old emission L516-12S- p
Two years' interest due from Capt. Hudson L12- s- p
One year's interest due on state note L 5_I7s- 51*
WILLIAM COOMBS,
DAVID COATS,
JAMES NICOLL,
WILLIAM P. JOHNSON,
L17-17S- 5P
Committee.
July 24, 1785, voted, that the treasurer be and hereby is direct-
ed to make application to Capt. Thomas Thomas for payment of
the dues and forfeitures, which he is indebted to. the society.
4
5°
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, unanimously, that the members of this society who
may be in town, be notified by the clerk, that a funeral discourse
on the death of Capt. Jonathan Parsons, is to be delivered by the
Rev. Mr. Murray, on the next Sabbath, and every member desir-
ous of paying this last mark of respect to the memory of the de-
ceased, be desired to attend.
Interest money received from Mr. Hawley, by committee L4- s- p
Due from the bank by society's agent Li-i4s-8p
Delivered to treasurer Ls-i4s"8p
March 31, 1785, Capt. Thomas credited by Li, delivered to
treasurer.
Voted, that William Coombs, Capt. Fletcher, Capt. Hodge,
Col. Wigglesworth and Capt. Friend be a committee to wait
upon the Rev. Mr. Murray, and desire of him a copy of the sermon
delivered on the death of Capt. Jonathan Parsons, for the press.
April 28, 1785, voted, to excuse Capt. Hudson, four fines by
reason of the infirmities of old age.
May 26, 1785, voted, that Capt. James Nicoll be a committee
to procure of Mr. Mycall, his lowest terms for printing the bye
laws of this society and make report thereof at the next monthly
meeting.
June 30 1785, voted, that Capt. James Nicoll be a committee
to procure the printing of one hundred and fifty copies of the bye
laws of this society, and that he be, and he hereby is authorized to
draw upon the treasurer for the amount thereof.
Voted, that every member of this society shall be entitled to
receive from the clerk, a printed copy of the bye laws, paying to
him for the use of said society one shilling each, and every mem-
ber shall be held to produce a copy at every yearly meeting.
July 28, 1785, voted, that the thanks of this society be given to
Rev. Mr. Murray for the copy of his sermon on the death of Capt.
Jonathan Parsons, and that he be requested to accept fifty printed
copies thereof.
Voted, that eighteen of the sermons delivered on the death of
Capt. Jonathan Parsons, be presented in the name of the Marine
Society, to Mrs. Hannah Parsons, the widow of said deceased.
Sept. 29, 1785, voted, to excuse Capt. Connors his dues and
fines to this date, on account of adverse accidents of life.
Oct. 27, 1785, Capt. John O'Brien was proposed by the clerk
as a candidate for election as a member of the Marine Societv.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 5 1
Capt. Benjamin Felt Knap was proposed by Capt. Anthony
Knap, as a candidate for election.
Voted, that Capt. Enoch Pike be excused his arrears, having
been unfortunate.
Voted, that Capts. William Coombs, John Fletcher and David
Coats, be a committee to inform Capt. Thomas Thomas that his
repeated absence from the society is a flagrant breach of their
laws, and considered by them highly derogatory, therefore, they be,
and hereby are directed to take suitable measures thereof and re-
port at next meeting.
Voted, that it is the opinion of the members present, that a
supper be provided at the annual meeting.
Voted, that Capts. St. Barbe and Nicholas Johnson be cater-
ers at the annual meeting.
Nov. 24, 1785, officers chosen:
Capt. William Coombs, Master.
Capt. David Coats, Deputy Master.
Capt. John Fletcher, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Voted, that Capt. David Coats, Capt. William Coombs, Capt.
E. Wigglesworth, Capt. William P. Johnson and Capt. James
Nicoll, be a committee to manage and dispose of the society's es-
tate for the ensuing year, agreeable to the tenth article of the bye
laws.
Capt. John O'Brien and Capt. Benjamin Felt Knap were
unanimously elected as members of this society.
Received from Capt. Knap's election L7-4S
Received from Capt. O'Brien's election L7"4s
L14-8S
Voted, that this society will meet at Mr. Davenport's for the
ensuing year.
Voted, that every member of this society shall annually at
every meeting in November produce to the master a copy of the
bye laws of this society, under a penalty of one shilling and four
pence, provided he is in town and not excused by sickness or the
infirmities of old age.
The committee for managing and disposing of the society's
estate, report that they have paid out of said society's estate for
the revision of the laws, four pounds, four shillings, which report
5*
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
was voted satisfactory, also report that they have paid the treas-
urer, six pounds, eight shillings for interest on L,53-6s-8p and
twenty-five shillings cash received from the different members for
the bye laws.
Voted, to adjourn this meeting to Tuesday, the 13th day of
December next at 6 o'clock p. m.
Dec. 13, 1785, voted, that the report of the committee for man-
aging and disposing of the society's estate be accepted and put on
file, viz: . • '
That they have examined the clerk's books and find them
properly stated, well avouched and rightly cast, that the treasurer's
accounts are agreeable thereto, and that the estate consists of a
number of securities, together with specie and paper money, viz :
Capt. James Hudson's bond Lioo- s- p
One state note L 97- is- 6p
Hawley's bond L 26- s- p
One share in Massachusetts bank L150- s- p
Cash loaned by Michael Hodge L 53- 9s- 8p
Cash in treasurer's hands L 40- 4s- 8p
L466-15S-10P
Cash in paper emission L516-12S- p
Three years' interest from ->
Capt. Hudson on his bond L18- s
Two years' interest on state
note L11-14S L 29-14S- p
DAVID COATS,
WILLIAM COOMBS,
EDWARD WIGGLESWORTH,
WILLIAM P. JOHNSON,
JAMES NICOLL,
Committee of Marine Society.
Voted, that Capt. Enoch Pike, Capt. Joseph Stanwood, Capt.
John Somerby, Capt. Joseph Lunt, Capt. Enoch Lunt, and Col.
Jonathan Evans, be certified by the clerk to his Excellency the
Governor, as persons suitable in the opinion of this society for
pilots, into and out of the river Merrimack.
Dec. 29, 1785, voted that Capt. Fletcher, Col. Wiggles worth,
Capt. William Coombs, Capt. Hodge, and Capt. A. Knap, be a
committee to make such further inquiry respecting Capt. Thomas
Tracy's conduct during his late voyage to Baltimore and Europe as
they may think needful, and to report such a draught of a certificate
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NKWBURYPORT 53
as will be consistent with the honor of the society to grant, and re-
port at the next meeting. N
Voted, that Capt. Isaac Randal of Amesbury be certified by
the clerk to his Excellency the Governor, as a person suitable in
the opinion of this society, for a pilot into and out of the harbor of
Newburyport, or river Merrimack.
Voted, that the clerk be and is hereby directed to furnish the
treasurer with an account of the dues and fines, which Capt.
Thomas Thomas is in arrears for to the society, and that the treas-
urer be directed to present it to him for payment.
Jan. 26, 1786, the committee appointed at the last meeting to
make such further inquiry into the conduct of Capt. Thomas Tracy,
during has last voyage to Baltimore and Europe, as they might think
necessary, and to make such a draugh of a certificate as is consist-
ent with the honor of the society to grant, beg leave to make the
following report, viz, that they have paid particular attention to the
business assigned them, have made such further inquiry as to them
appeared needful, and do recommend that the following form of a
certificate be signed by the master and given to Capt. Tracy to
make such use of as he shall see fit.
To all persons whom it doth or may concern. The Marine Society
of Newburyport, in the County of Essex, and Commonwealth
of Massachusetts, Sends Greeting :
Whereas, Capt. Thomas Tracy, late master of the ship Queen 01
France, has been charged by his owners with misconduct,, and breach of
orders, during his late voyage to Baltimore and Europe, and the said
Thomas Tracy, having solicited an inquiry into his conduct during the said
voyage.
The said society have made a critical and impartial inquiry into the
conduct of the said Thomas Tracy during the voyage aforesaid, and are of
opinion tfaat no part of his conduct, which has come to their knowledge,
ought in the least to disqualify him from the command of a vessel. That
all his transactions did appear to be the result of an honest mind, and that
his abilities as a seaman are unquestionable.
For witness whereof, the said society have caused their seal to be
hereunto affixed, and to be signed by the master of their society.
Given at Newburyport, this 26th day of January A. D., 1786.
Voted, that the foregoing report of the committee appointed
to make inquiry into the conduct of Capt. Thomas Tracy, etc., at
the last meeting, be accepted.
The treasurer of this society having reported that he had
waited on Capt. Thomas, agreeable to their directions and present-
54 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
ed him with an account of his arrears due to the society, that he
had refused, by neglecting to make payment, therefore, voted, that
he be fined six shillings.
Voted, that the treasurer be and he hereby is directed to put
Thomas Thomas' account with the society in suit before the next
meeting, unless prevented by payment.
Whereas, Capt. James Hudson, a worthy member of the Ma-
rine Society, who has sustained the office of a master with honor
to himself and satisfaction to the society for a number of years, is
now far advanced in life, and cannot with convenience to himself
by reason of the infirmities of old age, give that constant attend-
ance at the meetings of the society which the laws require, and that
it appears to this society highly requisite that some provision
should be made, therefore,
Voted, unanimously, that it is the opinion of this society, that
from henceforth, no fines or forfeitures be had, demanded or re-
covered from Capt. James Hudson for any breach of the laws aris-
ing for non-attendance on the monthly meetings.
Voted, that this society will always consider themselves as
honored by his company whenever health or convenience will per-
mit him to attend.
March 30, 1786, whereas, Capt. Thomas Thomas, a member of
this society, has neglected to pay up his monthly dues for more
than the space of six months without being excused therefrom, and
to pay the several penalties incurred by such neglect, until the so-
ciety were compelled to make application to an attorney for the
recovery of the same. Therefore,
Voted unanimously, that Capt. Thomas Thomas be and he is
hereby disfranchised and excluded from the Marine Society of
Newburyport.
The treasurer who was appointed as a committee in January
last, to put Capt. Thomas Thomas' account with this society in
suit before the next meeting, unless prevented by payment, report
that Capt. Thomas' neglect of making payment after being duly
notified thereof of the said account, obliged him to apply to an at-
torney, who effected the business and from whom your committee
received Li-ns-4p, which was delivered to the treasurer.
April 27, 1786, voted, to excuse Capt. Philip Aubin his dues
while absent amount to 2J8 having been shipwrecked.
Oct. 26, 1786, voted, to excuse Capt. Joseph Noyes his fine,
being detained by attending the funeral of a grand-child.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 55
Voted, that Capt. Henry Lunt, stand as a candidate for a
member, being proposed agreeable to the laws.
Voted, that Capt. B. Conner be fined i|4 for being absent for
six months past, and living within 25 miles of Newburyport.
Voted, to excuse Capt. Benjamin Rogers a fine for September,
he being unwell.
Voted, that a supper be provided for the society at the annual
meeting and that Capt. William P. Johnson and Capt. Jonathan
Coombs be caterers.
Nov. 30, 1786, officers chosen :
Capt. William Coombs, Master.
Capt. David Coats, Deputy Master.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Capt. Henry Lunt was unanimously elected a member of the
Marine Society.
Voted, that Capts. William Wyer, Joseph Noyes, James Nicoll,
Ebenezer Stocker and Enoch Pike, be a committee to manage and
dispose of the society's estate for the year ensuing.
Voted, that this society will meet at Mr. Davenport's the en-
suing year.
Voted, that the thanks of this society be given to Capt. Jona-
than Fletcher, for his services as treasurer for some years past.
Voted, that it is the opinion of this society that a dinner be
provided at the next annual meeting instead of a supper, as has
been customary.
Voted, to adjourn this meeting to Tuesday evening, the 12th
day of December next.
Dec. 12, 1786, voted, to accept of the following report of the
committee for managing and disposing of the society's estate, viz :
that they have examined the clerk's books, find them properly
stated, well avouched, and rightly cast, that the treasurer's ac-
counts are agreeable thereto, and that the estate consists of a num-
ber of securities, together with specie and old paper money, viz :
A state note L97-IS-6P, Joseph Hawley's bonds 26L, L123- is-6p
Cash in Capt. Hodge's hands L 96- 9s-8p
Thomas Brown's bond, L120-1 bank share L150 L270- s- p
Order on Mark Fitz, viz, Ln-i2s-iop, cash L36-IS-3P L 47-14S-IP
In old emission paper money, cash for interest money L 10-14S-4P
L5i6-i2s-op
56 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, that the chairman of the committee for disposing of
the society's estate be desired to settle with Mr. Hawley for the
moneys due from him to the society, to receive the interest accord-
ing to agreement and to take his bond for the original sum with
sufficient collateral security therefore agreeable to the laws of the
society.
March 27, 1787, voted, that Capt. Eben Stocker and Capt.
James Nicoll be a committee to wait upon Capt. Tileston with a list
of his dues, and to desire payment thereof.
August 30, 1787, Capt. Richard Tappan was proposed by the
clerk as a candidate for the next election. It appearing to this so-
ciety as very necessary to erect on Plumb Island two small wooden
buildings, fit to receive and protect from the inclemencies of the
weather, all distressed mariners who may be so unfortunate as to
be cast ashore on the Island.
Therefore voted, that Capt. William Coombs, Col. Wiggles-
worth, Capt, O'Brien, Capt. William Johnson, and Capt. Hodge, be
a committee to build the houses and place them on the Island as
they shall judge most likely to answer the proposed end, that the
expense thereof, be by them assessed on the members of the Ma-
rine Society.
Sept. 27, 1787, the following report of the committee appointed
to build and place two small houses on Plumb Island be accepted.
The committee appointed to build and place two small houses
on Plumb Island, beg leave to report that they have completed the
business assigned them, by erecting two houses of about feet
by and placing them at such distances and on such situations
as they judged would be most likely to answer the salutary end
proposed by the society.
The expenses which have accrued by building and placing
them, amounted to twenty-three pounds, six shillings, which sum
they have assessed on the several members of the Marine Society
in such proportions as your committee judged the several persons
could best pay, a copy of which they have lodged with the clerk of
the society to be placed on their files.
Voted, that the thanks of this society be given to their commit-
tee for so completely and expeditiously carrying their resolves,
respecting building two small houses on Plumb Island, into execu-
tion.
Capt. Edmund Wingate was proposed by the clerk as a candi-
date for the next election.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 57
Oct. 25, 1787, Capt. William Wyer reports to the society that
he has received from the Massachusetts bank, being the 5th divi-
dend of profits, on a share in said bank, belonging to this society,
declared the 4th July last, seventeen dollars and half.
Voted, that a supper be provided for the approaching annual
meeting, and that Capt. Michael Hodge and Capt. David Coats be
caterers.
Nov. 29, 1787, the following officers were chosen :
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Capt. William Coombs, Master.
Capt. David Coats, Deputy Master.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Treasurer.
Capt. Richard Tappan was unanimously elected a member of
this society.
Capt. Edmund Wingate was unanimously elected a member
of this society.
Voted, to meet at Mr. Davenport's for the ensuing year.
Voted, that the caterers be and hereby are directed to provide
a dinner on the day of the adjournment instead of a supper this
evening, being the day of thanksgiving.
Voted, to adjourn this meeting to Thursday next at 2 o'clock
p. m.
Dec. 6 ,1787, voted, that Capts. Joseph Noyes, James Nicoll,
William P. Johnson, William Stickney, and William Noyes be a
committee to manage and dispose of the societys estate agreeable
to the laws, for the ensuing year.
Voted, that seven pounds, four shillings, be demanded for the
admission of each member.
Voted, that Capt. William Coombs and Capt. Michael Hodge
be a committee to take the houses built on Plumb Island by the
society under their particular care, with full power to appoint a
suitable person to visit them once a month at least, excepting the
summer months, and the committee to report a state of them
monthly. Dinner and the expenses to each person was L3-9S.
Dec. 27, 1787, voted, that the following report of the commit-
tee appointed to settle the society's accounts be accepted.
The committee whom you have chosen for the management
and disposal of the society's estate beg leave to report, viz: that
they have examined the clerk's books, find them properly stated
and rightly cast, that the treasurer's accounts are agreeable there-
58 RECORDS AND HISTORY OP
to, and that the estate consists of a number of securities, together
with specie and old paper money as follows :
One state note L 97-is-6p
Joseph Hawley's bond L 26- s- p
Cash in Capt. Michael Hodge's hands L 37- s- p
Cash in Capt. Michael Hodge's hands L 43- s- p
Thomas Brown's bond L120- s- p
One share in bank stock L150- s- p
Capt. Thomas Jones' bond L 46- s- p
L5i9-is-6p
Capt. Ebenezer Stocker's note L 6-17S-3P
By cash received for interest for 87 L37- 4S-7P
Dues, etc., L23-14S-8P
Principal received in part on Capt. Michael
Hodge's estate Li6-igs-8p
Due from Capt. Richard Tappan for entrance
and book L 7" 5S-4P
L92- is-6p
L611- 3s- p
Old emission money L516-12S- p
JOSEPH NOYES,
WILLIAM STICKNEY,
JAMES NICHOLL,
WILLIAM P. JOHNSON,
WILLIAM NOYES,
Committee.
December 21st, 1787.
Jan. 31, 1788, voted, that in all future processions, where the
deceased person is a member, both of the Marine Society, and free
and accepted Masons, that the precedence shall be given to that
society in which the deceased has been the longest time a member.
Oct. 30, 1788, voted, that Capt. William Coombs, Capt.
Coats, Capt. Fletcher, Capt. William P. Johnson, and Capt.
O'Brien, be a committee to inquire into the circumstances of the
widows and orphans of the deceased members of this society and
make report at next meeting.
Voted, that Capts. St. Barbe and N. Johnson, be caterers to
provide a dinner at the next annual meeting.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 59
Nov. 27, 1788, officers chosen:
Capt. William Coombs, Master.
Capt. David Coats, Deputy Master.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Received from the committee for interest which was received
from Capt. Jones, Li"7s-8p.
Capt. Enoch Knapp was proposed as a candidate for admis-
sion as a member of the Marine Society.
Voted, that the society will meet at Mr. Davenport's for the
ensuing year.
Voted, that the members of this society will dine at Mr. Daven-
port's on the first day of January next, which will be in the year
1789.
Dec. 25, 1788, received from Capt. William Wyer, ten pounds,
ten shillings, being for the two last dividends of interest made by
the bank for one share of stock.
Voted, that Col. Wigglesworth, Capt. Joseph Noyes, Capt.
William P. Johnson, Capt. Jonathan Fletcher, Capt. John O'Brien,
be a committee to manage and dispose of the society's estate agree-
able to the laws for the ensuing year.
Voted, that Capt. Enoch Knapp, be for weighty and special
reasons admitted as a member of this society, his not standing a
proposed candidate two months notwithstanding.
Jan. 29, 1789, voted, that six pounds L. money be paid out of
the box as a temporary relief to the widow Friend, also six pounds
be paid to Mr. Ebenezer March for the temporary relief of his
sister, the widow Johnson, and her children, he to account with the
society's committee of the disposal of the same.
Voted, that the treasurer be and he is hereby directed to pay
the same as above ordered.
Sept. 24, 1789, voted, unanimously, that a sum not exceeding
$20 be granted for the temporary relief of Capt. James Nicoll, a
member of this society who is now in indigence and deprived of his
reason.
Voted, that Capt. William Coombs, Capt. Coats, Capt. Fletch-
er, be a committee to dispose of the above sum or such part thereof,
and in such a way as shall appear to them most conducive for those
benevolent purposes for which this society was instituted, and that
they from time to time assist Mrs. Nicoll with their best advice
on her husband's critical situation, until next meeting.
60 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, that the treasurer be directed to pay into the hands of
the above committee a sum not exceeding $20.
Oct. 29, 1789, voted, that Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe and Capt.
LeBreton, be caterers to provide a supper at Mr. Davenport's on
the adjournment of the annual meeting.
Nov. 26, 1789, officers chosen:
Capt. William Coombs, Master.
Capt. David Coats, Deputy Master.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Voted, that this society will meet at the house of Mr. Daven-
port, to transact their usual business for the ensuing year.
Voted, that this meeting be adjourned to Thursday evening
the tenth of December next, at six o'clock p. m.
Dec. 10, 1789, voted, that Col. Edward Wigglesworth, Capt.
Joseph Noyes, Capt. William Pierce Johnson, Capt. John Fletcher,
and Capt. John O'Brien, be a committee to manage and dispose of
the society's estate for the year ensuing.
Voted, to supply the widow Sarah Nicoll with the sum of
forty-five dollars for the purpose of defraying the expense, by pay-
ing the bills for the funeral charges of her late husband, Capt.
James Nicoll deceased, and also for expenses accrued whilst sick.
Jan. 28, 1790, Capt. William Farris having requested of this
society, by his letter of the 9th of this instant January, to be no
longer considered as a member thereof.
Therefore voted, unanimously, to accept of Capt. William Far-
ris' resignation, and that he is not in future to be considered as a
member of the Marine Society of Newburyport.
Sept. 30, 1790, voted, that Mr. John Somerby, Junior, be cer-
tified by the clerk of this society to his Excellency the Governor, as
a person suitable in the opinion of the society for a pilot into and
out of the river Merrimack.
Oct. 28, 1790, voted, that a supper be provided for the mem-
bers of the society at the adjournment of the annual meeting.
Voted, that Capts. John Coombs and Michael Hodge, be ca-
terers to provide the supper.
Nov. 25, 1790, officers chosen:
Capt. William Coombs, Master.
Capt. David Coats, Deputy Master.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NKWBURYPORT 6l
Voted, that Capt. John O'Brien be agent and attorney of this
society for the purpose of receiving any dividend of Massachusetts
bank stock, which now is or may be due to the society, and upon
receipt thereof to give due acquittances therefor, and also to repre-
sent the society at any meeting of the proprietors of said stock, and
there in the name of this society to vote and do and transact any
business which any proprietor of said stock can do when personally
present, the said John O'Brien to continue agent and attorney of
this society for the purposes aforesaid, until the society shall order
otherwise.
Dec. 8, 1790, voted, that the following report of the committee
chosen to manage and dispose of the society's estate and adjust the
accounts, be accepted : that they have examined the clerk's books
and find them properly stated, well avouched and rightly cast, and
that the treasurer's accounts are agreeable thereto and that their
estate consists of a number of securites, together with specie and
old emission money as follows :
One state note for
L 97- is- 6
P
Joseph Hawley's bond
L 26- s-
P
One share in Massachusetts bank
L150- s-
P
Capt. Thomas Jones
L 46- s-
P
Capt. Michael Hodge
L 40- s-
P
Capt. Ebenezer Stocker
L 6-17S- 3
P
Capt. William Stickney
L 76- 3s- 4
P
Mr. Richard Stickney, deceased
L 36- s-
P
Mr. Edmund Adams
L 32- 8s-
P
Capt. Joseph Noyes
L 50- s-
P
Capt. William P. Johnson
L 50- s-
P
Capt. John Fletcher
L 30- s-
P
Capt. Thomas Brown
L 30- s-
P
Capt. William Wyer
L 19- is- 7
P
Cash on hand
L 56-ns- 2
I-2p
L746- 2S-I0
I-2p
Old emission money
L516-12S
P
Treasurer's orders
L 2-i8s- 2
P
Newburyport, December, 1790.
EDWARD WIGGLESWORTH,
JOSEPH NOYES,
WILLIAM P. JOHNSON,
JOHN FLETCHER,
JOHN O'BRIEN,
Committee.
6l RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Dec. 30, 1790, voted, to excuse Capt. William Noyes, five fines,
being sick, 6|8.
Voted, that Mr. Enoch Lunt, Junior, of Newburyport, be cer-
tified by the clerk of the Marine Society to his Excellency the
Governor, as a person suitable in the opinion of this society for a
pilot into and out of the river Merrimack.
Voted, that Capt. William Coombs, Capt. Coats, Capt. Fletch-
er, Capt. N. Johnson, and Capt. Hodge, be a committee to visit the
widows and orphans of deceased members of this society, to in-
quire into their circumstances and to grant them such immediate
relief as they shall think proper, and make report thereof at the
next meeting, provided such relief shall not exceed ten dollars for
each widow, and that the treasurer be and he hereby is authorized
and directed to answer the demands of said committee for the pur-
poses aforesaid.
Jan. 27, 1 791, voted, to excuse Capt. Stickney's fine 1J4.
The committee appointed to inquire into the circumstances of
the widows and orphans of this society, beg leave to report that
they have paid particular attention to the business assigned them,
that they have granted to the widows Friend, Parsons, Pike, and
widow of James Johnson, ten dollars each, which we have reason to
believe was very acceptable, the whole sum granted is forty dollars,
which is received from the treasurer, agreeable to your vote.
Feb. 24, 1 791, voted, that this society will purchase one other
share in the Massachusetts bank, and that the master be desired to
cause the said share to be procured.
April 28, 1791, voted, that Capts. Fletcher, Wyer and O'Brien,
be a committee to make inquiry what would be the expense of
maintaining James Tileston, the son of James Tileston, late a
member of this society, per year, and to report at their next meet-
ing.
May 26, 1 791, voted that this society will maintain James
Tileston, son of Capt. James Tileston, late a member of this society,
for one year.
Voted, that twelve pounds be allowed out of the funds of this
society for the maintenance of the above named James Tileston,
for one year, beginning from the date of his arrival in the town
from Boston.
Voted, that the above mentioned sum of twelve pounds be al-
lowed to Capt. Benjamin Rogers, he complying with the requisi-
tions of the committee appointed for the aforesaid purpose, it being
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 63
expected by the society, that he be decently clothed, and suitably
victualed and properly schooled, and that his treatment in the fam-
ily be the same as one of his own children.
June 30, 1791, received from Capt. Wyer for monies he re-
ceived as a dividend from Massachusetts bank, upon account of
one share belonging to Marine Society, being number 13 — L9-7S-
6p.
Oct. 27, 1791, voted, that Capt. Wyer and Capt. Enoch Knap
be caterers.
Voted, that the master be desired to give an invitation to six
gentlemen to sup with us at our anniversary.
Capt. Edmund Wingate having made application to this so-
ciety for a dismission therefrom.
Voted, that Capt. Edmund Wingate, agreeable to his desire be
and is hereby dismissed from the Marine Society.
Voted, that in future, twenty dollars only be demanded for ad-
mission of new members. Capt. Charles C. Raboteau and Capt.
Michael Titcomb were proposed as candidates for admission as
members of this society, by Capt. Nicholas Johnson and Sewell
Tappan was proposed by Capt. Enoch Knap.
Voted, that the society will celebrate their anniversary by pro-
viding a supper at their next meeting.
Nov. 24, 1791, officers chosen:
William Coombs, Master.
William Stickney, Deputy Master.
Nicholas Johnson, Treasurer.
Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Edward Wigglesworth, William P. Johnson, John Fletcher,
Joseph Noyes, and Peter LeBreton, were chosen a committee to
manage and dispose of the society's estate, to adjust their accounts
and report a state thereof at the next meeting.
Capt. Charles C. Raboteau, Capt. Michael Titcomb, and Capt.
Sewell Tappan, were admitted as members of this society.
Capt. Benjamin Pearson Ingalls was also admitted as a mem-
ber of this society, it appearing to the society that his not being
proposed at a monthly meeting previously, was a mere mistake
that the members generally were acquainted with his intentions to
be a member, and that he had manifested his desire to some of
them whom he supposed would propose him in season.
Voted, to meet at Mr. Davenport's for the year ensuing.
64 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted to adjourn this meeting to Thursday evening, the eighth
of December next, at six o'clock.
Received from Benjamin P. Ingalls, admission and book L 6-is
Received from Michael Titcomb, admission and book L 6-is
Received from Sewell Tappan, admission and book L 6- s
Received from Charles C. Raboteau, admission and book L 6- s
Delivered to treasurer L24-2S
Dec. 8, 1 79 1, voted, that the following report of the committee,
chosen to manage and dispose of the society's estate and adjust
their accounts, be accepted, viz: that they have examined the
clerk's books and find them properly stated, well avouched and
rightly cast, and that the treasurer's accounts are agreeable there-
to, and that their estate consists of a number of securities, together
with specie, as follows :
One state note of Massachusetts L 97- is-6p
Samuel Hawley's bond L 26- ,s- p
One share in Massachusetts bank L150- s- p
One additional share L165- s- p
Michael Hodge's note L 40- S- p
Ebenezer Stocker's note L 6-17S-3P
William Stickney's note L 76- 3s-4p
Thomas Jones' note L 46- s- p
Estate of Richard Stickney, deceased L 36- s- p
Joseph Noyes L 50- s- p
John Fletcher L 30- s- p
William Wyer L 19- is-7p
Cash on hand L 65- 4S-9P
Treasurer's order L 2-i8s-2p
L810- 6s-7p
Interest on different securities unpaid L 51-14S-3P
EDWARD WIGGLESWORTH,
JOHN FLETCHER,
WILLIAM P. JOHNSON,
PETER LeBRETON,
Committee.
Dec. 29, 1 791, received from Capt. Wyer, twenty-four pounds,
ten shillings L money, being monies received by him from Massa-
chusetts bank for a dividend declared July 1791, being number 14.
Voted, Capts. William Coombs, John Fletcher, William P.
Johnson, E. Wigglesworth, and Nicholas Johnson, be a committee
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 65
to visit the widows and orphans of the deceased members, and such
others of this society as they shall deem to be objects of their char-
ity, to inquire into their circumstances, and to grant them such
immediate relief as they shall think proper, and make report there-
of at the next meeting, provided such relief shall not exceed ten
dollars each, and that the treasurer be and he hereby is authorized
and directed to answer the demands of said committee for the pur-
poses aforesaid.
March 29, 1792, voted, to accept of the following report of the
committee appointed in December last, viz: The committee ap-
pointed to inquire into the circumstances of the widows and
orphans and others of this society, beg leave to report that they
have attended that service and have granted to the widows, Par-
sons, Friend, and Pike, and Mrs. St. Barbe, three pounds each,
which we have reasons to believe was very acceptable, which sum
they have received from the treasurer agreeable to order. Your
committee beg leave further to observe that from the best informa-
tion they have been able to obtain, Mrs. St. Barbe's circumstances
really merit the further assistance of this society.
Newburyport, 29th March, 1792.
WILLIAM COOMBS,
Chairman, per order.
Three pounds was given by the committee towards the sup-
port of the children of James Johnson deceased.
April 26, 1792, voted, to purchase another share in the Massa-
chusetts bank, and that the president be desired to acquaint the
cashier thereof.
June 28, 1792, voted, that the committee for managing the so-
ciety's estate be desired to procure the money and make payment
for one other share in the Massachusetts bank.
Voted, that twelve pounds be paid to Capt. Benjamin Rogers
for boarding and clothing James Tileston for one year.
Aug. 30, 1792, voted, that Capt. William P. Johnson be agent
and attorney of this society for the purpose of receiving any divi-
dends of Massachusetts bank stock, which now are or may be due
to the society and upon the receipt thereof to give due acquittance
therefor, and also to represent the society at any meeting of the
proprietors of said stock, and there in the name of the society to
vote and do and transact any business which any proprietor of said
stock can do when personally present, and the said Johnson to con-
66 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
tinue agent and attorney of this society for the purposes aforesaid,
until the society shall order otherwise.
Gapt. Benjamin Wyatt was proposed by Capt. R. Tappan a
candidate for a member of this society.
Sept. 27, 1792, Capt. Thomas Greenleaf was proposed by Capt.
William Stickney as a candidate for admission into the Marine So-
ciety.
Oct. 25, 1792, Capt. Thomas Adams was proposed by Capt.
Aubin as a candidate for admission into the Marine Society.
Voted, to celebrate the anniversary of the society and that a
supper be provided.
Voted, that Ciapts. Philip Aubin and Wyatt St. Barbe be ca-
terers for the celebration of the anniversary.
Voted, that Capt. Isaac G. Pearson be summoned agreeable to
the laws of the society for having been absent for more than six
months past.
Nov. 29, 1792, officers chosen :
William Coombs, Master.
William Stickney, Deputy Master.
Nicholas Johnson, Treasurer.
Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Capt. Benjamin Wyatt was unanimously voted in as a member
of the Marine Society.
Capt. Thomas Greenleaf was unanimously voted in as a mem-
ber of the Marine Society.
Capt. Thomas Adams was unanimously voted in as a member
of the Marine Society.
Ool. E. Wigglesworth, Capts. William P. Johnson, William
Wyer, Joseph Noyes and Peter Le Breton were chosen a commit-
tee to manage and dispose of the society's estate for the year en-
suing and to adjust their accounts and report a state thereof at
the next meeting.
Voted, to meet the ensuing year at the house of Mr. Moses
Davenport.
Voted, to adjourn this meeting to next Tuesday week to meet
at six o'clock, p. m.
Dec. 11, 1792, voted, that Capts. William Coombs, Joseph
Noyes, Nicholas Johnson, William Russell, Wyatt St. Barbe, be a
committee to visit and inquire into the situation of the widows and
orphans of the deceased members of this society and of all such
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 67
others as they shall deem to be objects of the society's charity, and
that they be directed to make their report at the next meeting.
Dec. 27, 1792, voted, that Capt. Benjamin Rogers be author-
ized (in case he should think best) to put James Tileston under the
care of Mr. Joshua Brown of Newbury, on the same terms and
conditions as he the said Rogers is under obligations to comply
with.
The committee appointed to inquire into the circumstances of
the widows and orphans of the deceased members, made a verbal
report that the widows Friend, Parsons, Pike and Nichols, were in
their opinion entitled to pecuniary assistance from the society.
Whereupon voted, that the treasurer be and he hereby is author-
ized and directed to send fifteen dollars to each of the aforenamed
widows in the name of the society, and this shall be sufficient war-
rant therefor.
Voted, that Capt. Benjamin Rogers, be and he is hereby au-
thorized to receive from the treasury of this society, twelve pounds
for boarding, clothing, etc., James Tileston, an orphan of this so-
ciety, for one year, which ends in June next.
Jan. 31, 1793, voted that Capt. William Wyer be entitled to
twelve pounds from the funds of this society, it being allowed for
the decent support and maintenance of James Johnson, aged eight
years, a son of Capt. James Johnson, deceased, late a member of
this society, for one year, ending on the thirteenth day of December
next, provided that Capt. Wyer shall conform to the expectations
of the society by decently clothing, suitably victualing, and properly
schooling, and humanely treating the said James Johnson for and
during the term aforesaid.
Voted, that the following report of the committee chosen to
manage and dispose of the society's estate and adjust their ac-
counts, be accepted.
One state note for
Samuel Hawley's bond
One share in Massachusetts bank
One additional share in Massachusetts bank
Michael Hodge's bond
Ebenezer Stocker's bond
Richard Stickney's bond
Joseph Noyes' note
William Wyer's bond
Thomas Brown's bond
One double share in Massachusetts bank
L 97-
is-6p
L 26-
s- p
L150-
s- p
L165-
s- p
L 40-
s- P
L 6-]
7S-3P
L 36-
s- p
L 50-
s- p
L 19-
is-7p
L 45-
s- p
L300-
s- p
68 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Treasurer's order L 2-i8s-2p
Cash on hand L 18-12S- p
Newburyport, 4 January, 1793.
E. WIGGLESWORTH,
JOSEPH NOYES,
WILLIAM WYER,
PETER LeBRETON,
L956-10S-6P
Committee.
April 25, 1793, Capt. John Bagley of Amesbury was proposed
a candidate for admission as a member of this Marine Society by
Capt. Moses Brown.
May 30, 1793, Capt. Nicholas Peirce was proposed a candidate
for admission as a member of this Marine Society by Capt. Benja-
min Conner.
Voted, that the treasurer be directed to pay to Capt. Benjamin
Rogers, twelve pounds, ten shillings and two pence, in full for
James Tileston's board for one year.
June 27, 1793, Capt. Abraham Wheelwright was proposed by
Capt. Nicholas Johnson as a member, a candidate for the Marine
Society.
July 25, 1793, whereas it does appear to this society from a
representation of some of the members thereof, who have lately
surveyed the houses which were erected on Plumb Island for the
relief of distressed mariners, that considerable repairs will be want-
ing to put them in a condition to answer the end proposed. There-
fore voted, that each member be assessed three shillings each for
the purposes as aforesaid.
Capt. Offin Boardman was proposed by Capt. M. Hodge as a
candidate for a member of the Marine Society.
Aug. 29, 1793, voted, that Capt. Michael Hodge be a commit-
tee to procure from Mr. Parsons a draught of a law to be presented
to the General Court for their approbation, in order to secure the
houses built by the Marine Society, and all others which may or
are erected for the same humane purposes, from the insults and
depredations to which they are now exposed.
Voted, that six shillings (in lieu of three voted last meeting) -be
assessed upon each member of this society for the purpose of de-
fraying the expense of repairing said houses.
Sept. 26, 1793, voted, that the treasurer be and he hereby is
authorized and directed to pay a bill presented by Capt. William
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 69
Coombs, of eight pounds, one shilling and nine pence, being for
expenses for repairs of houses built on Plumb Island for the relief
of unfortunate shipwreck seamen.
Capt. John Holland was proposed by Capt. Hodge as a can-
didate for admission into the Marine Society.
Nov. 28, 1793, officers chosen:
Capt. William Coombs, Master.
Capt. William Stickney, Deputy Master.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Capt. John Bagley, Capt. Nicholas Peirce, Capt. Abraham
Wheelwright, Capt. Offin Boardman, Capt. John Holland, were
balloted in as members of the Marine Society.
Col. Wigglesworth, Capt. William P. Johnson, William Wyer,
Joseph Noyes, and Peter LeBreton were chosen a committee to
manage and dispose of the society's estate for the year ensuing.
Voted, to meet at Mr. Davenport's the ensuing year.
Voted, to celebrate our anniversary by a supper to be provided
for the adjournment, and that Capt. Moses Brown and Sewell Tap-
pan be the caterers.
Voted, to adjourn this meeting to Thursday evening, the fifth
day of December next at 6 o'clock.
Dec. 5, 1793, voted, that Capts. William Coombs, Sewell Tap-
pan, Philip Aubin, Moses Brown, and Thomas Adams, be a com-
mittee to visit the widows and orphans of the deceased members,
and such others of this society as they shall deem to be objects of
charity, to inquire into their circumstances, and to grant them such
immediate relief as they shall think proper, and make report of
their doings at the next meeting, provided such relief shall not ex-
ceed fifteen dollars to each person, and that the treasurer be and he
hereby is authorized and directed to answer the demands of said
committee for the purposes as aforesaid.
Dec. 26, 1793, a letter from Capt. Benjamin Conner, now in
confinement, requesting the Marine Society to bail him for his ap-
pearance at the Circuit Court in June next was read, and the so-
ciety having duly attended to, and considered of the nature of his
request, were unanimously of opinion, that they in their corporate
capacity had no power to mortgage their funds to bail any person
whatever, and the large amount of the bonds demanded induced
the members present to decline in their separate capacity to be-
70 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
come responsible, however strongly their feelings were touched
by his unhappy situation.
Voted, to accept the following report of the committee ap-
pointed for the purpose of attending to and relieving the necessities
of the widows and orphans of this society, that they had attended
to the business assigned them and drawn on the treasurer for the
sum of twenty-two pounds, ten shillings, which they have disposed
of as follows :
To the widows Parsons, Friend, Pike, Nichols, and Fletcher,
fifteen dollars each, and report that in their opinion Mrs. Nichols
is entitled to further relief from the society.
Voted, that the report of the committee for settling the ac-
counts of the society be accepted, viz : that they have examined the
clerk's books and find them properly stated and well avouched, and
rightly cast, and that the treasurer's accounts are agreeable there-
to, and that their estate consists of a number of securities together
with specie as follows, viz :
One state note of Massachusetts
L 97- is-6
P
One share in Massachusetts
bank
Li 50- s-
P
One additional share, in Massachusetts bank
L165- s-
P
Samuel Hawley's bond
L 26- s-
P
Michael Hodge's note
L 40- s-
P
Ebenezer Stocker's note
L 6-17S-3
P
Joseph Noyes' note
L 27-11S-51
-2p
Richard Stickney's note
L 36- s-
P
William Wyer's note
L 19- is-7
P
Thomas Brown's note
L 45- s-
P
One double share in Massachusetts bank
L300- s-
P
Cash on hand
L 69-HS-71
"2p
Newburyport, December 12, 1793.
L982- 3S-S P
E. WIGGLESWORTH,
W. P. JOHNSON,
JOSEPH NOYES,
PETER LeBRETON,
WILLIAM WYER,
Committee.
Jan. 30, 1794, voted, that the sum of fifteen dollars be sent to
the widow Nichols and that the treasurer be desired to effect it.
A letter from Capt. Benjamin Connor was received this even-
ing and read to the society. Whereupon it was voted, that Capt.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 7 1
William Coombs, Michael Hodge, and Nicholas Johnson, be de-
sired to answer it and inform him that the members present did all
decline to become bound for so large a sum as was required, but
they were ready to assist him in any way in their power to make
his situation comfortable.
Feb. 27, 1794, 11 present, 7 absent. No business.
March 27, 1794, 13 present, 6 absent. No business.
April 24, 1794, 6 present, 15 absent. No business.
May 29, 1794, voted, that the treasurer be authorized and di-
rected to pay Mr. Joseph Brown, twelve pounds, ten shillings, be-
ing his account in full for boarding James Tileston, an orphan for
one year past.
Oct. 30, 1794, voted, to celebrate the anniversary of the Ma-
rine Society at Mr. Moses Davenport's on the 27th of November
next, and that a supper be provided.
Voted, that Capt. Russell and Capt. Wheelwright, be caterers
to provide the supper at the annual meeting.
Voted, that Capt. Russell, Capt. John Coombs, and Capt.
Nicholas Johnson be a committee to review and repair the houses
on Plumb Island.
Capt. Benaiah Titcomb, Jr., was proposed as a candidate for
admission into the Marine Society by Capt. Wyer.
Capt. Israel Young was proposed as a candidate for admission
into the Marine Society, by Capt. Wyer.
Capt. William Pickett and Capt. John March, were proposed
as candidates for admission into the Marine Society, by Capt. Rus-
sell.
Capt. Micajah Ingalls was proposed as a candidate for admis-
sion into the Marine Society by Capt. Stickney.
Nov. 27, 1794, officers chosen :
Capt. William Coombs, Master.
Capt. William Stickney, Deputy Master.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Capts. Benaiah Titcomb, Israel Young, William Pickett, John
March, and Micajah Ingalls were ballotted in members of the Ma-
rine Society of Newburyport.
Col. Wigglesworth, Capts. William P. Johnson, William Wyer,
Peter Le Breton, and Abraham Wheelwright were chosen a com-
mittee to manage and dispose of the society's estate for the year
ensuing.
J2 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, to adjourn this meeting to Thursday evening next, be-
ing the eleventh day of December, at six o'clock.
Dec. II, 1794, voted, that Capts. John Coombs, A. Wheel-
wright, William Knap, Sewall Tappan and Benaiah Titcomb, Jr.,
be a committee to visit the widows and orphans of the deceased
members and such others of this society as they shall deem to be
objects of charity, to inquire into their circumstances, and grant
them such relief as they shall deem proper, provided such relief
shall not exceed twenty dollars to each person, and make their re-
port at the next meeting, and the treasurer is hereby directed and
authorized to answer the demands of said committee for the pur-
poses aforesaid.
Dec. 25, 1794, voted, to accept of the following report of the
committee on donations, viz : that they have attended to the busi-
ness assigned them, and disposed of the following sums as follows :
to the widows Parsons, Friend, Pike, and Nichols, twenty dollars
each, and have drawn on the treasurer therefor. They further re-
ported, that in their opinion, Mrs. Nichols was entitled to further
relief from the society.
Voted, that the committee on donations be empowered to
draw on the treasurer for a further sum of twenty dollars and dis-
pose of it to the widow Nichols at their discretion.
Voted, that the following report of the committee for settling
the accounts of the society, be accepted, viz: that they have ex-
amined the clerk's books and find them properly stated, well
avouched, and rightly cast, and that the teasurer's accounts are
agreeable thereto, and that the estate consists of a number of se-
curities with specie as follows, viz :
One state note of Massachusetts L 97- is-6 p
One share in Massachusetts bank L150- s- p
One additional share in Massachusetts bank L165- s- p
Samuel Hawley's bond L 26- s- p
Michael Hodge's bond L 40- s- p
Ebenezer Stocker's bond L 6-17S-3 p
Richard Stickney's bond L 36- s- p
William Wyer's bond L 19- is-7 p
One double share in Massachusetts bank L300- s- p
Thomas Brown's bond L 45- s- p
William Wyer, Jr.'s bond L120- s- p
Cash on hand L 56-12S-3 l-2p
Newburyport, Dec. 18, 1794. L1016-12S-7 l-2p
EDWARD WIGGLESWORTH, ^
WILLIAM P. JOHNSON, I
PETER LeBRETON, f Committee.
ABRAHAM WHEELWRIGHT, J
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 73
Jan. 29, 1795, voted, the expense of eleven shillings and ten
pence, exhibited by Capt. John Coombs for repairing the houses
erected on Plumb Island, be paid by the treasurer, and that the
clerk be desired to assess it on the several members in equal pro-
portions.
March 26, 1795, Capts. Stephen Holland and Jonathan Moul-
ton were proposed by Capt. John Holland as candidates for mem-
bers.
April 30, 1795, Capt. Joseph Noyes, 4th, was proposed as a
candidate for admission into the Marine Society.
Capt. Daniel Farley was proposed by Capt. Russell as a can-
didate for admission into the Marine Society.
June 25, 1795, Capt. Ebenezer Choate was proposed as a can-
didate for admission into the Marine Society.
Whereas, Capt. Henry Friend, a member of this society, ad-
vanced in life, unable to partake and join in the debates of the
society by deafness, and being infirm by age, petitions the society,
that the fine for non-attendance may be dispensed with in case of
his absence. Therefore voted, that it is the opinion of this society
that from henceforth no fine or forfeiture be had, demanded or re-
covered from Capt. Henry Friend, for any breach of the laws aris-
ing from his non-attendance.
Aug. 2.^, 1795, Capt. Samuel Chandler was proposed as a can-
didate for admission into the Marine Society.
Voted, that Benjamin Rogers be summoned agreeably to the
laws of this society for long absence.
Oct. 28, 1795, voted, to celebrate the anniversary of the Ma-
rine Society at Moses Davenport's, and that a dinner be provided.
Voted, that Capt. Israel Young and Capt. Philip Aubin, be
caterers to provide the dinner on the anniversary.
Nov. 26, 1795, officers chosen :
William Coombs, Master.
William Stickney, Deputy Master.
Nicholas Johnson, Treasurer.
Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Capts. Samuel Chandler, Joseph Noyes 4th, Ebenezer Choate,
Daniel Farley, Stephen Holland, and Capt. Jonathan Moulton,
were balloted in as members of the Marine Society of Newbury-
port.
Voted, that the accounts of this society, shall in future be
kept in dollars and cents, the currency of the United States.
74
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, that twenty-two dollars be paid as entrance by each
person who shall be admitted into this society.
Voted, that ten cents be demanded of each member at every
monthly meeting, if present, in lieu of eight pence heretofore paid,
and twenty-five cents for every member neglecting to attend at
the opening of the monthly meetings in lieu of one shilling and four
pence heretofore paid.
Voted, that this society will meet at Mr. Moses Davenport's
for the ensuing year.
Voted, that whereas Capt. John Bagley was admitted into this
society two years past and since that time has not attended at any
of the monthly meetings of the society, nor made payment for his
admission or of any of his monthly dues, therefore voted, that he
be disfranchised and excluded the benefit of the said society.
Voted, that Capts. William P. Johnson, Abraham Wheelwright
and Ebenezer Stocker, be a committee to manage and dispose of
the society's estate for the ensuing year agreeably to the standing
laws of the society.
Received from Capt. Joseph Noyes, entrance fee and book $22-i6s-6m
Received from Capt. Samuel Chandler, entrance fee and book$22-i6s-6m
Received from Capt Ebenezer Choate, entrance fee and book $22-i6s-6m
Received from Capt William Pickett, for book i6s-6m
$66-66s-4m
Dec. 10, 1795, voted, that Capts. William Noyes, Philip Aubin,
and Ebenezer Choate, be a committee to visit the widows and or-
phans of deceased members and such others of the society as they
shall judge fit objects of charity, to inquire into their circumstances
and grant them such relief as they shall deem proper, provided
such relief shall not exceed twenty-five dollars to each person, and
make their report at the next meeting, and that the treasurer is
hereby directed and authorized to answer the demands of the
committee for the said purposes.
Dec. 31, 1795, voted, that Capt. John O'Brien be summoned
for non-attendance agreeable to the bye laws of the society.
Whereas, Capt. Henry Lunt has absented himself from this
society for more than two years past and has not paid up his dues,
having removed with his family to Baltimore, wherefore voted, that
the clerk be requested to inform Capt. Lunt by letter, that if he
wishes to continue a member of this society, he must pay up his
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 75
dues within twelve months from this day and regularly discharge
them once a year.
Voted, that Capts. William Coombs, E. Stocker and I. Young
be a committee to answer a letter from the Marine Society of Bos-
ton, respecting erecting a light-house upon the highland of Cape
Cod, requesting a copy of their petition with their reasons for fix-
ing upon that spot and the support they expect to have in effecting
the same.
Voted, that Capts. Nicholas Johnson, Joseph Noyes and Israel
Young be a committee to make inquiry into the situation of James
Johnson, a minor and son of the late Capt. James Johnson, and
report at the next meeting the best and most suitable method the
society can adopt for the welfare of the said minor.
Jan. 28, 1796, The committee on donations report that they
have attended to the business assigned them and distributed to
widow Parsons, 25 dollars, widow Nichols, 30 dollars, widow
Friend, 25 dollars, and widow Pike, 20 dollars, and have drawn on
the treasurer for the same.
Feb. 25, 1796, voted, that Capts. A. Wheelwright, William
Noyes, Moses Brown, Israel Young, William Knap, E. Wiggles
worth, and John Coombs, be a committee to take into considera-
tion a book of directions of this coast with the bearings and dis-
tances of the several head-lands and seaports exhibited to this
society by Capt. Furlong for their approbation. The committee
are desired to be very particular in their investigation of its merits
and state its defects if any, and make report at the next monthly
meeting.
Voted, that a petition to Congress be preferred in the name of
the Marine Society of Newburyport, praying a light-house may be
erected upon Cape Cod.
Capt. Moses Brown was excused his dues during his last voy-
age, he having been taken, his vessel and cargo adjudicated by the
Bermudians.
Voted, that the committee appointed in December to write to
the Marine Society of Boston, be the committee to draft a petition
to be preferred to Congress by the representatives of this district
on the subject of a light-house on Cape Cod, and that they forward
the same as soon as may be.
Voted, that in pursuance of the representation of the commit-
tee on donations, Mrs. Rappell be and is entitled to receive by the
76 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
hands of said committee, twenty-five dollars, and that the treasurer
be authorized to pay the same.
The committee for settling the accounts of the Marine Society
beg leave to report, that they have examined the clerk's books and
find them properly stated, well avouched and rightly cast, and that
the treasurer's accounts are agreeable thereto, and that the estate
consists of a number of securities, together with specie as follows,
viz:
One state note of Massachusetts $ 456.24.0m
Four shares in Massachusetts bank $2000.oo.om
Samuel Hawley's bond $ 86.66.7m
Michael Hodge's bond $ 133333m
Ebenezer Stocker's bond $ 22.87.5m
Richard Stickney's bond $ 12o.00.0m
William Wyer's bond $ 63.60.oro
Thomas Brown's bond $ 150.00.0m
William Wyer Jr., bond $ 400.00.0m
Anger March's bond $ 333,33.3m
Cash on hand $ 213.05.0m
Newburyport, 24th December, 1795.
$3979-09-8m
WILLLIAM P. JOHNSON,
ABRAHAM WHEELWRIGHT,
Committee.
March 31, 1796, voted, that the necessary expenses of the
committee while actually employed in the examination of the
courses and distances, etc., in Capt. Furlong's book of directions,
be defrayed by the members of the Marine Society.
June 30, 1796, voted, that Capt. Thompston be informed in
answer to his letter of 28th of June, requesting the approbation of
this society for a branch pilot for the river Merrimack, that is
necessary for him to exhibit to the society, proof that he is quali-
fied to undertake the business, and that the clerk be desired to fur-
nish Capt. Thompston with a copy of the foregoing vote.
Voted, that a committee be chosen to make such extracts from
a letter received from Capt. St. Barbe, and read by the society this
evening, as they shall judge proper, and cause it to be published in
the newspapers.
Voted, that Capts. Stocker, Young and Hodge be the commit-
tee.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT *1>1
Aug. 25, 1796, Capt. Joseph Hills Woodman, and Capt. Paul
Stevens, have been this evening proposed as candidates for admis-
sion into the Marine Society.
Sept. 29, 1796, voted, that Capt. Benjamin Perkins, Jr., be cer-
tified to his Excellency the Governor, as a person suitable in the
opinion of the members present to undertake the duties of a pilot
into and out of the river Merrimack, provided expressly that he
does not enter into any contract or combination with any of the
other pilots of the port.
Voted, to fill up and add two persons to the committee for the
care of James Johnson, and they are requested to adjust the busi-
ness with Capt. William Wyer, respecting him in answer to his let-
ter of this evening, before the next meeting.
Voted, that Capt. Hodge, Capt. Stocker, and Capt. Raboteau,
be a committee to act on Capt. St. Barbe's letter to the society, and
make public such parts of it as they may think best.
Voted, that Capt. Wheelwright, Capt. Wyatt and Capt. Wil-
liam Noyes be added to the above committee.
Oct. 27, 1796, voted unanimously, that Capt. Benjamin Per-
kins, Jr., be certified by the clerk of this society to his Excellency,
the Governor, as a person suitable and capable in the opinion of
this society, for a pilot into and out of the river Merrimack.
Voted, to celebrate the anniversary of the Marine Society at
Mr. Moses Davenport's, and that a dinner be provided.
Voted, that Capt. William Russell and Capt. William Pickett
be caterers, to provide the dinner for the said day.
Voted, that the committee appointed to confer with Capt. Wil-
liam Wyer respecting James Johnson, an orphan son of Capt.
James Johnson, deceased, and late a member of this society, be
and hereby are authorized and impowered by and with the consent
of Capt. Wyer, his guardian, to take into their care and charge the
said James Johnson, to pay off the expense which has accrued since
the time he left Capt. Wyer's family, to place him in any family and
'agree for his board or place him an apprentice as they shall think
best, and also (Capt. Wyer consenting thereto) that any one of the
society who may consent thereto, be impowered to take guardian-
ship of the said James under the immediate direction of the so-
ciety, and that they will indemnify the said guardian from every
expense attending the same, the said expense to be paid out of the
monies voted for his maintenance, until he shall be put to appren-
tice, which sum was voted in December, 1793, and further provided
78 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Capt. Wyer shall make it appear to the said committee that the
said James, has materially injured him in his property by spoil and
waste, the said committee are authorized and impowered in their
discretion to make him recompense.
Capt. Friend Dole, Capt. John Wiley, and Capt. Edmund
Kimball are proposed as candidates for admission into the Marine
Society.
Nov. 24, 1796, officers chosen:
Capt. William Coombs, Master.
Capt. William J. Johnson, Deputy Master.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Capts. Joseph Hills Woodman, Paul Stevens, Friend Dole.
John Wiley, and Capt. Edmund Kimball, were balloted for and
admitted members of the Marine Society of Newburyport.
Capt. Jonathan Young was balloted for and for special reasons
admitted a member of said Marine Society, notwithstanding he
had not been proposed and stood a candidate one month at least
before the annual meeting.
Voted, that each person admitted a member this evening, shall
pay into the hands of the clerk, twenty-five dollars as entrance.
Voted, that Capts. William Noyes,Ebenezer Stocker, Abraham
Wheelwright, Charles C. Raboteau, and Philip Aubin, be a com-
mittee to manage and dispose of the society's estate for the ensuing
year agreeably to the standing laws of the society.
Voted, that this society meet at Mr. Moses Davenport's for
the ensuing year.
Voted, to adjourn this meeting to this night fortnight, to meet
at this place at 6 o'clock, p. m.
Received from Capt.
Wiley
$25.i6.6m
Received from Capt.
Young
$2S.i6.6m
Received from Capt.
Kimball
$25. 1 6. 6m
Received from Capt.
Dole
$2S.oo.om
Received from Capt.
Holland
$ 2.16.6m
$io2.66.om
Dec. 29, 1796, voted, that the treasurer be authorized and di-
rected to return to the widow of Joseph Noyes, the 4th, the monies
which were received from him on his admission into this society, he
not having been a member a sufficient length of time to entitle his
widow or children to relief from the funds of the society.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 79
Voted, that Peter C. Brooks be (at his request) appointed the
substitute and proxy of this society to vote in the Massachusetts
Bank the ensuing election.
That Capts. A. Wheelwright, William P. Johnson, Ebenezer
Choate, Edmund Kimball and Moses Brown, be a committee to
visit the widows and orphans of the deceased members of this so-
ciety, and to grant such relief to those that they shall judge fit sub-
jects of the society's donation as they may think proper, provided
they do not exceed twenty-five dollars to each person.
The committee for settling the accounts of the Marine Society,
beg leave to report, that they have examined the clerk's books, and
find them properly stated, well avouched, and rightly cast, and that
the treasurer's accounts are agreeable thereto, and that their es-
tate consists of a number of securities, together with specie as
follows :
One state note of Massachusetts $ 456.24.0m
Four shares in Massachusetts bank $20oo.oo.om
Samuel Hawley's bond $ 86.66.7m
Michael Hodge's note $ 133. 33. 3m
Ebenezer Stocker's note $ 22.87.5m
Richard Stickney's bond $ 120.00.0m
William Wyer's bond $ 63.60.0m
Thomas Brown's bond $ 150.00.0m
William Wyer, Jr's. bond $ 400.00.0m
Angier March's bond $ 333.33.3m
Cash on hand $ 498.85.0m
Newburyport, Dec. 23, 1796.
$4264.8g.8m
WILLIAM NOYES,
A. WHEELWRIGHT,
CHARLES C. RABOTEAU,
EBENEZER STOCKER,
Committee.
Jan. 26, 1797, voted, that Capt. Moses Brown, and Capt.
Raboteau, be a committee to take under their immediate care and
direction, James Johnson a minor, to place him out to board upon
such terms as they may agree upon, and the treasurer is hereby di-
rected to answer their draft therefor.
Voted, that Capt. Michael Hodge be a committee to procure a
new book for the records of the society, also a book suitable to
transcribe the first records of said society which were kept in a
80 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
marble cover book, is much worn and defaced, and that he be de-
sired to copy the same.
Voted, that Capt. Benjamin Rogers be summoned to attend
the society.
Voted, that Capt. Henry Friend be summoned to attend the
society.
Voted, that Capt. John O'Brien be summoned to attend the
society.
Aug. 31, 1797, voted, that the treasurer be and he hereby is
authorized and directed to pay Capt. Raboteau his bill of four dol-
lars, fifty cents in full, for his bill of sundries, bought for James
Johnson by desire of the Marine Society.
Oct. 26, 1797, voted, that Capts. Moses Brown and William
Russell, be caterers to provide a dinner for the members of the
Marine Society, to celebrate their anniversary on the last Thursday
of next month.
Nov. 30, 1797, officers chosen :
Capt. William Coombs, Master.
Capt. William P. Johnson, Deputy Master.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Voted, that Capts. William Noyes, Ebenezer Stocker, Charles
C. Raboteau, A. Wheelwright, and Philip Aubin, be a committee
to manage and dispose of the society's estate for the ensuing year
agreeably to the standing laws of the society.
Voted, to meet at Mr. Moses Davenport's the ensuing year.
Voted, that Capts. Philip Aubin, Isaac G. Parsons, Joseph
Noyes, Abraham Wheelwright, and Edmund Kimball, be a com-
mittee to visit the widows and orphans of the deceased members
of this society, to inquire into theircircumstances, and grant them
such relief as they shall deem proper, provided such relief shall not
exceed twenty-five dollars to any one person.
Capts. George Jenkins and Samuel Rolfe are proposed as can-
didates for admission into this society at the next yearly meeting.
Jan. 25, 1798, Capt. Benjamin Perkins, a pilot into and out of
the river Merrimack, requests the Marine Society to recommend a
Mr. Joseph Lunt Colby, for a pilot into and out of the river Merri-
mack, as he finds it exceedingly inconvenient to perform the duties
of a pilot alone.
The committee for settling the accounts of the Marine Society,
beg leave to report, that they have examined the clerk's books and
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 8l
find thern properly stated, well avouched, and rightly cast, and that
the treasurer's accounts are agreeable thereto, and that their estate
consists of a number of securities, together with specie, as follows :
One state note of Massachusetts $ 456.24.0m
Four shares in Massachusetts bank $2000.oo.om
Samuel Hawley's bond $ 86.66.7m
Michael Hodge's bond $ 133.33.3m
Richard Stickney's bond $ i20.00.0m
William Wyer Jr's, bond $ 400.00.0m
Angier March's bond $ 333.33.3m
Ebenezer Stocker's bond $ 322.87.3m
Cash in the hands of the treasurer $ 398.64.6m
$425 1. 09.2m
Newburyport, Jan. 24, 1798.
EBENEZER STOCKER,
ABRAHAM WHEELWRIGHT,
CHARLES C. RABOTEAU,
PHILIP AUBIN,
Committee.
Voted, that Capts. Wyer, Russell and Jonathan Young, be a
committee "to take into consideration a letter from Mr. Edmund M.
Blunt to the Marine Society, received this evening, and make re-
port thereof to the society as soon as may be convenient.
Voted, that in case the foregoing committee should report in
favor of Mr. Edmund M. Blunt's chart, this society will write to
the Marine Society at Salem, recommending the same and request
their concurrence therein.
Feb. 22, 1798, voted, that Capts. Hodge, Joseph Noyes, and
Wheelwright be a committee to make answer to a letter from
Martha Howard to Capt. Joseph Noyes, relating to her son, James
Johnson, and take such measures respecting the said lad as they
shall judge fit and proper.
Whereas, application has been made to this society for their
approbation of Joseph Lunt Colby as a suitable person for a pilot
into and out of the river Merrimack, thereupon voted, that it is
considered by the society necessary for him to procure from the
merchants of the town such a recommendation as shall be satisfac-
tory to the society, and in all future applications to this society of
the like kind, such a recommendation will be indispensable.
March 29, 1798, voted, that Mr. Joseph Lunt Colby be recom-
mended to his Excellency, the Governor, as a fit and suitable per-
son for a pilot into and out of the river Merrimack.
82 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
May 31, 1798, voted, that Capt. William Wyer be allowed ten
per centum upon the amount of Mr. Hawley's bond due to this so-
ciety, provided that the said William Wyer shall secure to the
society agreeably to their laws the remainder of the said bond after
the ten per centum is deducted.
Voted, that Capt. Abraham Wheelwright be agent and attor-
ney of this society with power to receive for the use of the said
society any sum or sums of money which may be found due to the
said society from the estate of Richard Stickney, late of Newbury,
yeoman, deceased, with power in the name of the Marine Society of
Newburyport, to commence and prosecute to final judgment and
execution any suits or actions which may be necessary to affect the
premises, and upon receipt of such sum or sums as aforesaid to
give in the name of the said Marine Society due acquittances there-
for, the said society engaging to ratify what their said agent and
attorney may lawfully do or cause to be done on the premises.
June 28, 1798, voted, that Capts. Joseph Noyes, Moses Brown,
William Noyes, Jonathan Young and William Russell, be a com-
mittee to examine at the request of Mr. Edmund Blunt, a new in-
tended publication of his, called The American Coast Pilot, and
make report thereof to this society.
Oct. 25, 1798, voted that the anniversary of this society be
celebrated at Mr. Moses Davenport's, and that a suitable dinner be
provided.
Capt. Eleaser Johnson is proposed a candidate for admission
into the Marine Society, by Capt. Richard Tappan.
Voted, that every member of this society be entitled to invite
his friend to the anniversary, paying his club.
Nov. 29, 1798, whereas, Capt. Ebenezer Hoyt did make ap-
plication to a member of this society one month before the annual
meeting, to be proposed as a candidate for admission, which the
said member through forgetfulness did not do, therefore voted,
that he be entitled to stand as a candidate for admission, his not
being proposed in season, notwithstanding. Officers chosen:
Capt. William Coombs, Master.
Capt. William Peirce Johnson, Deputy Master.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Clerk.
Voted, that the meeting of the society be held at Mr. Moses
Davenport's for the year ensuing.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 83
Capt. George Jenkins was unanimously admitted a member of
this society.
Capt. Samuel Rolfe was unanimously admitted a member of
this society.
Capt. Eleazer Johnson was unanimously admitted a member
of this society.
Capt. Ebenezer Hoyt was unanimously admitted a member of
this society.
Voted, that each person admitted a member of the Marine
Society be held to pay twenty-six dollars to the funds of said so-
ciety upon their admittance.
Voted, that this meeting stand adjourned to Thursday even-
ing next, then to meet at Mr. Davenport's at 6 o'clock.
Dec. 6, 1798, voted that Capt. William Noyes, Ebenezer
Stocker, Charles C. Raboteau, Philip Aubin, and William Russell
be a committee to manage and dispose of the society's estate for
the ensuing year agreeably to the 10th article of the bye-laws.
Voted, that Captains Ebenezer Choate, Jonathan Young,
Jonathan Moulton, Abraham Wheelwright and Joseph Noyes, be a
•committee to visit the widows and orphans of the deceased mem-
bers of this society, to inquire into their circumstances and grant
them such relief as they shall think proper, provided such relief
does not exceed thirty dollars to each person.
Jan. 31, 1799, voted, that Capts. Jonathan Young, William
Russell, and Joseph Noyes be a committee to collect the dates and
time of the decease of the members of the Marine Society and the
places where they so deceased.
Feb. 28, 1799, voted, that Capt. William Wyer be a committee
to call upon Captains Friend and Rogers, and inform them that it
is the opinion, and will be expected by the society that they meet
with them on their next monthly meeting, and they pay up their
dues.
Voted, that the committee for managing the society's estate
be directed to invest the monies now on hand, and also all other
monies that may be collected before the next annual meeting in the
public securities of the United States at the lowest market.
Voted, that Capt. Charles C. Raboteau be agent and attorney
of this society for the purposes of receiving any dividends of Mas-
sachusetts bank stock, which now are or may be due to this society
and upon the receipt thereof to give due acquittance therefor, and
also to represent the society at any meetings of the proprietors of
84 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
said stock, and there in the name of the society to vote, do and
transact any business which any proprietor of said stock can do
when personally present, and the said Raboteau to continue agent
and attorney of this society for the purposes aforesaid until the so-
ciety shall order otherwise.
Voted, that Capt. Conner be summoned agreeably to the bye
laws of the society.
Voted, that Capt. Lunt be summoned agreeably to the bye
laws of the society.
March 28, 1799, Capt. Benjamin Rogers appeared this even-
ing agreeably to the desire of the society.
Capt. Friend did not appear, but sent a message that he would
on the next monthly meeting.
Voted, that Capt. Benjamin Rogers be excused his fines and
dues to this society up to this date.
May 30, 1799, voted, that the committee for managing and
disposing of the society's estate be and hereby are authorized to
loan to Capt. Benjamin Rogers, two hundred and fifty dollars, he
giving such security as the laws of the Marine Society directs, any
former vote of the society respecting the disposal of their monies,
notwithstanding.
Oct. 31, 1799, voted, to excuse Capt. Peter Le Breton from his
attendance on the Marine Society for the months of December,
January, February and March next following, agreeable to the
prayer of his petition on account of infirmities.
Voted, to celebrate the anniversary by a dinner.
Voted, that Capt. Jonathan Young and Capt. Sewell Tappan
be caterers to provide a dinner on the day of the adjournment of
the annual meeting.
Nov. 28, 1799, voted, the terms of Master, deputy master and
clerk used in the society be altered to president, vice president, and
secretary.
Officers chosen :
Capt. William Coombs, President.
Capt. William Peirce Johnson, Vice President.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Secretary.
Voted, that whereas Capt. Jonathan Young declares that he
was to have proposed Capt. Jonathan Dalton as a candidate for a
member of this society, that he mentioned it to the president and
some other members, and as he really supposed that was sufficient
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 85
therefore the said Jonathan Dalton was balloted for and admitted
as a member.
Voted, that Capt. Henry Lunt, a member of this society, hav-
ing long absented himself from this society, and the summons by
the president agreeable to the laws to appear, has paid no atten-
tion, has neglected for years to pay up his dues, and for his other-
wise notorious misbehavior, be disfranchised from the Marine
Society and excluded the benefit of the box.
Voted, to excuse Capt. Nicholas Johnson from serving as
treasurer, at his own request.
Capt. William Russell was chosen treasurer.
Voted, that this society will meet at Mr. Moses Davenport's
house for the year ensuing.
Voted, that Capts. Ebenezer Stocker, Charles C. Raboteau,
Philip Aubin, William Russell and Israel Young, be a committee
to manage and dispose of the society's estate for the ensuing year
agreeably to the ioth article of the bye laws.
Voted, that Captains Jonathan Young, John Coombs, Isaac
G. Pearson, Samuel Rolfe, and William Knap, be a committee to
visit the widows and orphans of the deceased members of this so-
ciety, to inquire into their circumstances, and grant them such
relief as they think proper, provided such relief does not exceed
twenty dollars to each person.
Voted, that twenty-six dollars be demanded of each person ad-
mitted into the society.
Voted, that Capt. Benjamin Conner, a member of this society,
having long absented himself from the society, and the summons
agreeable to the laws to appear, has not paid attention thereto, and
has neglected to pay up his dues for more than two years past, be
ancl he hereby is <' sfranchised from the Marine Society and ex-
cluded from the benefit of the box.
Dec. 12, 1799, voted, that the thanks of this society be and
hereby is given to Capt. Nicholas Johnson for his past services as
their treasurer.
A motion made by Capt. Wyer, that the clergy of the town of
Newburyport be invited to dine with the Marine Society on their
next anniversary.
Dec. 26, 1799, voted, that the members present will pay each
one's proportion of a sum of money, the committee on donations
advanced to Mrs. Wiley under the idea of her being a subject of
their commission.
86 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
The committee for settling the accounts of the Marine Society
beg leave to report that they have examined the clerk's books and
find them properly stated, well avouched and rightly cast, and that
the treasurer's accounts are agreeable thereto, and that their es-
tate consists of securities, together with specie as follows :
One state note of Massachusetts $ 456.24.0m
Four shares in rhe Massachusetts bank $2000.oo.om
William Wyer, Jr's., bond $ 400.00.0m
Angier March's bond $ 333.33.3m
Ebenezer Stocker, bank security $ 700.00.0m
William Wyer, Sr., note $ 93-33-om
Benjamin Rogers' bond $ 250.00.0m
Richard Stickney's bond now in suit under
rhe care of Capt. Abraham Wheelwright $ 120.00.0m
Cash in the hands of the treasurer $ 467.81.0m
Newburyport, Dec. 24, 1799.
$4820.71. 3m
PHILIP AUBIN
ISRAEL YOUNG,
EBENEZER STOCKER,
WILLIAM RUSSELL,
Committee.
Jan. 30, 1800, voted, that the treasurer be and he hereby is spe-
cially directed and authorized to invest the monies that now is or
may be on hand, during the present year, in the stock of the United
States, the Navy, to have the preference, and the committee for
managing and disposing of the society's estate be and they are
hereby directed to call upon all those who are indebted to the said
society, for immediate payment, and that they collect in the monies
as soon as may be.
Voted, that five dollars be given to widow E. Knap.
Capt. William Thomas has been proposed by Capt. Woodman
as a candidate for the Marine Society.
April 24, 1800, voted, that Capt. Israel Young be and he here-
by is invested by this society with full power and authority in
their behalf to convey a tract of land, which was set off to them
by execution against the estate of Richard Stickney, late of New-
bury, deceased, and to sign any instrument necessary for that pur-
pose.
Oct. 30, 1800, Capt. Abel Lunt was nominated as a candidate
for admission into the Marine Society.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 87
Nov. 27, 1800, officers chosen :
Oapt. William Coombs, President.
Capt. William P. Johnson, Vice President.
Capt. William Russell, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Secretary.
Voted, that the society will meet at Mr. Moses Davenport's
for the ensuing year.
Voted, that when this meeting is adjourned it be adjourned to
Thursday, the nth day of December next, and that a public dinner
be provided for said day.
Capt. William Thormas was unanimously admitted a member
of the Marine Society.
Capt. Abel Lunt was unanimously admitted a member of the
Marine Society.
Voted, that Capts. Nicholas Johnson, Benjamin Wyatt, Abra-
ham Wheelwright, Israel Young and William Noyes, be a com-
mittee to manage and dispose of the society's estate for the en-
suing year agreeably to the ioth article of the bye laws.
Voted, that twenty-seven dollars be demanded from each per-
son admitted a member of this society.
Voted, that Capts. Nicholas Johnson and Edmund Kimball be
caterers to provide the public dinner.
Dec. 25, 1800, voted, that Capt. John Coombs, Benjamin
Wyatt, Edmund Kimball, Wyatt St. Barbe and Charles C. Rabo-
teau, be a committee to visit the widows and orphans of deceased
members of this society, inquire into their circumstances, and
grant them such relief as they shall think proper, provided such
relief does not exceed twenty dollars to each person.
Voted, that the treasurer be directed to advance to the afore-
said committee a sum not exceeding twenty dollars to each person,
subject to the society's charity.
The committee for settling the accounts of the society beg
leave to report, that they have examined the secretary's books and
find them properly stated, well avouched and rightly cast, and that
the treasurer's accounts are agreeable thereto, and that the estate
consists of a number of securities, together with specie as follows :
One Massachusetts state note $ 456.24.0m
Navy, six per cent, stock $ 900.00.0m
Four shares in Massachusetts bank $20oo.oo.om
William Wyer, Jr's., bond $ 200.00.0m
Angier March's bond $ 333.33.3m
88 RECORDS AND HISTORY OP
Ebenezer Stocker's bond $ 700.00.0m
William Wyer's bond $ 93.33.0m
Benjamin Rogers' bond $ 250.00.0m
Cash on hand $ 432.37.0m
$556S-27-3m
Newburyport, Dec. 9, 1800
NICHOLAS JOHNSON,
ABRAHAM WHEELWRIGHT,
BENJAMIN WYATT,
ISRAEL YOUNG,
Committee.
Jan. 29, 1 801, voted, that Capts. Stocker, Wheelwright and
William P. Johnson, be a committee to confer with the pilots of
this harbor on the subject matter laid before this society by a large
number of the mercantile interests in this town.
Feb. 26, 1801, the committee appointed by this society on the
representation of a number of the merchants in this town respect-
ing the conduct of the pilots of this harbor, beg leave to report that
they have conferred with the pilots on the subject matter of a com-
plaint against them, and have obtained proposals from the pilots,
which if agreeable to the merchants, will, we think, cure the evils
complained of.
Voted, that the same committee be desired to furnish the mer-
chants with a copy of the pilots proposals and receive from them
their opinion respecting the same.
March 26, 1801, voted, that the treasurer be and he is hereby
authorized to supply Capt. Benjamin Rogers five dollars a month
in such necessaries as he shall judge most expedient, until the next
annual meeting, he being a subject of the society's attention.
Capt. Samuel Chase was proposed a candidate for admis-
sion into the Marine Society.
Voted, that Capts. Michael Hodge, Wyatt St. Barbe, Israel
Young, William Coombs, and Nicholas Johnson, be a committee
to attend to the communications of Capt. James Merrill and Stan-
ton Prentis, respecting their ideas of having discovered a plan by
which longitude may be discovered.
April 30, 1801, voted, that Capts. William Coombs, Israel
Young, and Nicholas Johnson, be a committee to confer with the
merchants in presence of the pilots respecting some amendments
in the agreement with the said pilots, which the society think may
be necessary.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NKWBURYPORT 89
June 25, 1801, Capt. Jacob Stone was proposed by Capt.
Abraham Wheelwright, a candidate for admission as a member
into the Marine Society.
Voted, that Capt. John O'Brien be summoned by the presi-
dent agreeable to the laws of the society for long absence there-
from,
July 30, 1801, Capt. John Sewell Hodge was proposed as a
candidate for admission into the Marine Society.
Sept. 24, 1801, voted, that the treasurer be and he is hereby
directed to advance to the widow Rachel Knap, fifteen dollars as a
temporary relief agreeably to her petition for that purpose.
Oct. 29, 1801, voted, to celebrate the anniversary of the Ma-
rine Society by a public dinner.
Whereas, it has been suggested by some of the members of
the Marine Society, that Capt. Samuel Chase had been mentioned
as a candidate, it was therefore considered that he remain on the
books a candidate notwithstanding no positive recollection from
any member can be had.
Nov. 26, 1 80 1, officers chosen :
Capt. William Coombs, President.
Capt. Willliam P. Johnson, Vice President.
Capt. William Russell, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Secretary.
Capt. Jacob Stone was admitted a member of the Marine So-
cety of Newburyport.
Capt. John Sewell Hodge was admitted a member of the Ma-
rine Society of Newburyport.
Capt. Samuel Chase was admitted a member of the Marine
Society of Newburyport.
Voted, that this society will meet at Mr. Moses Davenport's
for the ensuing year.
Dec. 10, 1801, voted, that Capts. Nicholas Johnson, Benjamin
Wyatt, Abraham Wheelwright, Israel Young, and William Noyes.
be a committee to manage and dispose of the society's estate for
the ensuing year.
Voted, that Capts. John Coombs, Edmund Kimball, Charles
C. Raboteau, Benjamin Wyatt, and Jonathan Moulton, be a com-
mittee to visit the widows and orphans of the deceased members
of this society, to inquire into their circumstances, and grant them
such relief as they shall think proper, provided such relief does
not exceed twenty-five dollars to each person.
90 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, that the treasurer be authorized and directed to ad-
vance to the aforesaid committee a sum not exceeding twenty-five
dollars to each person, subject in the said committee's opinion to
such relief.
Voted, that twenty-seven dollars be demanded for admittance
into the Marine Society.
Dec. 31, 1801, the committee for settling the accounts of the
Marine Society of Newburyport, beg leave to report, that they
have examined the clerk's books and find them properly stated,
well avouched, and rightly cast, and that the treasurer's accounts
are agreeable thereto, and that their estate consists of securities,
together with cash as follows:
One state note of Massachusetts
$ 456.24
Four shares in Massachusetts
bank
$2000.00
Navy, six per cent, stock
$1500.00
One loan office certificate
$ 600.00
William Wyer, Jr., bond
$ 200.00
Ebenezer Stocker's note
$ 700.00
William Wyer, Sr.'s note
$ 93-33
Benjamin Rogers, bond
$ 250.00
Cash on hand
$ 9205
Newburyport, Dec. 17, 1801.
$5891.62
NICHOLAS JOHNSON,
WILLIAM NOYES,
BENJAMIN WYATT,
ISRAEL YOUNG,
A. WHEELWRIGHT,
Committee.
Jan. 28, 1802, voted, that the thanks of this society be given to
Capt. Charles C. Raboteau for his care and attention in receiving
(free of "expense to the society) the interest due on their stock at
Boston, for a long time past.
May 27, 1802, Capt. William Orne was proposed as a can-
didate for admission into the Marine Society, by Capt. Hoyt.
Capt. Isaac Stone was proposed as a candidate for admission
into the Marine Society, by Capt. Toppan.
Capt. Joseph Lunt was proposed as a candidate for admission
into the Marine Society, by Capt. Toppan.
Sept. 30, 1802, Capt. James Myers was proposed as a candi-
date for admission into the Marine Society, by Capt. Kmap.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 9 1
Oct. 28, 1802, Capt. Benjamin Peirce was proposed as a can-
didate for admission into the Marine Society by Capt. Stocker.
In the absence of Capt. Hodge, secretary, it was voted that
Capt. Ebenezer Stocker act as secretary pro tern.
Voted, unanimously, that this society considering the long and
faithful services of Michael Hodge, their secretary, and as a mark
of their gratitude and esteem, direct that a silver tankard to con-
tain a beer quart with a suitable inscription thereon, be presented
to him.
Voted, that Capts. William Coombs, William P. Johnson, and
William Russell, be and hereby are appointed a committee to carry
the foregoing vote into effect, and to draw upon the treasurer for
the amount.
Nov. 25, 1802, officers chosen :
Capt. William Coombs, President.
Capt. William P. Johnson, Vice President.
Capt. William Russell, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Secretary.
Voted, that this society shall not exceed at any one time, 60
members.
Voted, that Capt. Henry Friend and Capt. Benjamin Rogers,
be invited to dine with the society on their anniversary, at the ex-
pense of the members present at said anniversary.
Voted, to meet at Mr. Moses Davenport's for the ensuing
year.
Voted, that Capt. Benjamin Rogers be supplied by the treas-
urer with five dollars a month for the year ensuing.
Capt. William Orne was unanimously elected a member of this
society.
Capt. Isaac Stone was unanimously elected a member of this
society. 1
Capt. Joseph Lunt was unanimously elected a member of this
society.
Capt. James Myers was unanimously elected a member of this
society.
Capt. Benjamin Peirce was unanimously elected a member of
this society.
Voted, that Capts. Nicholas Johnson, Benjamin Wyatt, Abra-
ham Wheelwright, Israel Young, and William Noyes, be a com-
mittee for the disposing and managing of the society's estate for
9a RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
the year ensuing agreeable to the ioth article of the bye-laws of
the said society.
Voted, that Oapts. A. Wheelwright, John Coombs, Joseph H.
Woodman, Israel Young, and Nicholas Johnson, be a committee
to visit the widows and orphans of the deceased members of this
society, to inquire into their circumstances, and grant them such
relief as they shall think proper, provided such relief does not ex-
ceed thirty dollars to each person.
Voted, that Capts. William Russell and Wyatt St. Barbe be
caterers to provide the public dinner.
Voted, that the treasurer of this society be and he hereby is
authorized and directed to answer the drafts made by the com-
mittee for visiting the widows and orphans agreeably to a vote of
the society of this evening, and also to supply Capt. Rogers agree-
ably to the foregoing vote.
Voted, to adjourn this meeting to Thursday evening, the 9th
day of December next ensuing, at six o'clock p. m.
Dec. 9, 1802, voted, that the committee for managing and dis-
posing of the society's estate, be advised to subscribe for ten
shares in the new contemplated bank in this town, in the name of
this society, and that the treasurer be and he is hereby directed to
answer the drafts of the committee for that purpose.
Received from Capt. Isaac Stone
$27.00.0
Book
16.5
Received from Capt. Benjamin Peirce
$27.00.0
Book
16.5
$54-33
Dec. 30, 1802, on the application of Edmund M. Blunt, to this
society by letter requesting a copy of their votes respecting James
Johnson, a minor, it was voted, that the committee who were ap-
pointed to the care of the said James Johnson after he left Capt.
Wyer's family, be requested to confer with Mr. Blunt on the sub-
ject matter of his request, and give him such information of the
doings of the society respecting the said James, as they shall deem
fit and proper.
The committee for settling the society's accounts beg leave to
report as follows:
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 93
One state note, Massachusetts $ 45624
Four shares in Massachusetts bank $2000.00
United States, six per cent, stock $ 600.00
Benjamin Rogers, bond $ 250.00
Six per cent, stock, New Hampshire $1007.92
Navy, six per cent, stock $1500.00
Cash on hand $ 820.53
$6634.69
Newburyport, Dec. 29, 1802.
NICHOLAS JOHNSON,
WILLIAM NOYES,
BENJAMIN WYATT,
ISRAEL YOUNG,
Committee.
We the committee for distributing the donations for the relief
of the indigent widows and orphans of the deceased members of
the Marine Society, do hereby report, that we have received from
the treasurer, eighty dollars and distributed the same as follows:
Widow Friend $20.00
Widow Rapall $20.00
Widow Nichols $20.00
Widow Dole $20.00
NICHOLAS JOHNSON,
A. WHEELWRIGHT,
JOHN COOMBS,
ISRAEL YOUNG,
Committee.
April 28, 1803, voted, that Michael Hodge be and he hereby
is appointed agent and attorney for this society to receive any divi-
dends of the stock of the said society which are due or may here-
after become due, standing in the books of William Gardner, Esq.,
Commissioner of the United States Loan Office, in the state of
New Hampshire, and upon the receipt thereof to give due ac-
quittances therefor, also for any dividends heretofore received by
him for the account of said society, the said Michael Hodge to re-
tain the power and authority above granted him until it shall be
otherwise ordered by the said society, and that Capt. William
Coombs, our president, be and he hereby is authorized and impow-
ered to sign a letter of attorney for the above said purpose.
Sept. 29, 1803, Capt. Jonathan Titcomb was proposed for
membership, by Capt. E. Johnson.
94 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Capt. Peter Le Breton, Jr., was proposed for membership.
Oct. 27, 1803, whereas, Capt. John Somerby, a branch pilot,
has addressed this socety in writing, requesting them to recom-
mend him as superintendent or keeper of the light-houses on
Plumb Island, the present keeper being about to resign, therefore,
it was voted that Capt. John Somerby be recommended by the so-
ciety to be keeper of the lights as aforesaid, provided the several
branch pilots of Newbury and Newburyport be equal sharers in the
profits thereof, and that Capt. Somerby give full satisfaction to the
society of his compliance therewith.
Voted, that Capts. William Coombs, William P. Johnson and
Michael Hodge be a committee to carry the foregoing vote into
effect.
Nov. 24, 1803, officers chosen :
Capt. William Coombs, President.
Capt. William P. Johnson, Vice President.
Capt. William Russell, Treasurer.
Capt. Michael Hodge, Secretary.
Capt. Peter Le Breton, Jr., was elected a member of the so-
ciety.
Capt. Jonathan Titcomjb was elected a member of the so-
ciety.
Voted, that Capts. Nicholas Johnson, Benjamin Wyatt, A.
Wheelwright, Israel Young, and William Noyes, be a committee
for disposing and managing of the society's estate for the ensuing
year.
Voted, that Capts. Wyatt St. Barbe, John Coombs, William
Pickett, George Jenkins, and Sewell Tappan, be a committee to
visit the widows and orphans of the deceased members of this so-
cety, to inquire into their circumstances, and grant them such
relief as they shall judge proper, provided such relief does not ex-
ceed thirty dollars to each person.
Voted, that the treasurer be and he is hereby authorized to
honor the draft of the committee for the above purpose.
Voted, that the treasurer be and he is hereby requested to call
upon Capt. Friend for his dues to the society.
Voted, that Capts. William Wyer, Isaac G. Pearson and Dan-
iel Farley, be cited by the president to appear at the next monthly
meeting, and there inform the society of the reason of their long
absence from the society, and to pay up their dues.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 95
Voted, that the treasurer be and he is hereby authorized to
supply Capt. Benjamin Rogers to the amount of seven dollars
monthly, for the year ensuing in such necessaries for himself and
family as he in his discretion shall judge most suitable.
Voted, that this society will hold their meetings at this house
of Mr. Davenport's for the year ensuing.
Whereas, Capt. Joseph Lunt was admitted a member of this
society in 1802, and since that time has not attended any of their
monthly meetings nor paid in his admisson or any of his monthly
dues, therefore, it was voted that he be and he is hereby disfran-
chised from the said society and excluded from the benefit of the
box.
Voted that Capts. Benjamin Rogers and Edward Wiggles-
worth be excused from paying up the dues now standing against
them in the society's books, and that all future dues to the society
be remitted to them on account of their adverse circumstances in
life.
Voted, that the secretary be a committee to procure to be
printed, a new edition of the laws of this Marine Society, and to
have inserted therein the names of all its members who have been
admitted and the time of their admission against their names, re-
spectfully, and to draw upon the treasurer for the expense thereof,
who is hereby authorized to pay the said draft.
Dec. 29, 1803, whereas Ciapts. William Wyer and Joseph
Noyes hath represented to this society the great inconvenience of
their punctual attendance on the monthly meetings, being far ad-
vanced in life by reason of the infirmities incident to old age, and
request that the society would excuse them from all fines for non-
attendance, which they otherwise would be subject to, therefore,
voted, that Capts. William Wyer and Joseph Noyes be and they
hereby are, for reasons before assigned, excused from henceforth
paying any fines for non-attendance upon the monthly meetings,
any law to the contrary notwithstanding.
Voted, that Capt. Nicholas Johnson be agent and attorney to
this society, to receive all dividends on the stock belonging to this
society standing on the books of Thomas Perkins, Esq., Commis-
sioner of Loans in Boston, also all dividends of bank stock and in-
terest on Massachusetts state notes, and upon receipt thereof to
give due acquittances therefor in the name of the said society.
Voted, at the request of Mr. Blunt, that a committee of seven
be appointed to examine the fourth edition of the American Coast
96 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Pilot, now in the press and to approve or disapprove of the same in
whole or in part as they shall think proper.
Estate of the society:
One Massachusetts state note $ 364.99
Navy, six per cent, stock $1500.00
Four shares Massachusetts bank $2000.00
Certificate in loan office, Mass. $ 600.00
Certificate in loan office, N. H. $1007.92
Benjamin Rogers, bond $ 250.00 ',
Thirteen shares, Newburyport bank $ 975.00
Cash in treasurer's hands $ 211.00
Newburyport, 21 December, 1803.
$6908.91
NICHOLAS JOHNSON,
A. WHEELWRIGHT,
BENJAMIN WYATT,
ISRAEL YOUNG,
Committee.
Feb. 23, 1804, voted, that Mr. Tristram Lunt of Newbury, be
recommended by the Marine Society of Newburyport, to the Gov-
ernor and Council of this Commonwealth, as a fit and suitable per-
son for a pilot into and out of the river Merrimack.
Nov. 29, 1804, officers chosen :
Capt. Michael Hodge, President.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Vice President.
Capt. Benjamin Wyatt, Teasurer.
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, Secretary.
Capt. Moses Brown, Jr., was admitted a member of the Ma-
rine Society. 1
Capt. Charles Hodge was admitted a member of the Marine
Society.
Capt. John N. Cushing was admitted a member of the Marine
Society.
Capt. Joseph Brown, 3rd, was admitted a member of the Ma-
rine Society.
Voted, that Capts. Michael Hodge, Nicholas Johnson, Israel
Young, Edmund Kimball, and Ebenezer Stocker, be a committee
for managing and disposing of the estate of the Marine Society for
the year ensuing agreeably to the 10th article of the bye-laws of the
said society.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 97
Voted, that Capts. Wyatt St. Barbe, Samuel Rolfe, Samuel
Chase, Edmund Kimball, and William Knap, be a committee to
visit the widows and orphans of the deceased members of this so-
ciety, to inquire into their circumstances and grant them such relief
as they shall judge fit and proper, provided such relief shall not ex-
ceed thirty dollars to each person, and that the treasurer be and he
is hereby authorized to answer their draft therefor.
Voted, that William Russell be and he hereby is appointed a
committee to supply Capt. Benjamin Rogers with seven dollars
monthly, during the year, in such a manner as he in his discretion
shall judge most fit and proper, for the relief of him and his family.
Voted, that this society will hold their meetings at this house,
kept by Mr. Perkins, for the year ensuing.
Voted, to celebrate the anniversary of the Marine Society, at
Mr. Perkins' on the 13th of December next, and that a public din-
ner be provided on the occasion.
Voted, that the thanks of this society be given to Capt. Wil-
liam Coombs for his many and eminent services as a member, and
during the long period that he presided over the said society as
their master, he having by letter declined a re-election, and that
from this time henceforth no fines or forfeitures for non-attend-
ance upon the society at their stated meetings be demanded or re-
ceived from him, any law to the contrary notwithstanding.
Voted, that the thanks of this society be given Capt. William
Russell for his services as their treasurer for a number of years
past, he having declined serving as treasurer again.
Voted, that the thanks of this society be given to Capt. Mich-
ael Hodge for his services as their clerk for more than twenty
years past.
Voted, that the sum of twenty-seven dollars be demanded
from every person admitted as a member of the Marine Society.
Dec. 13, 1804, met as per adjournment and partook of a din-
ner.
Jan. 31, 1805, on a written application of Mrs. H. Knap for re-
lief from this society, it was voted that Capt. Benjamin Wyatt, Wil-
liam Russell, and Sewell Toppan, be a committee to inquire into
the circumstances of Mrs. Hannah Knapp, widow of Anthony
Knapp, and if in their judgment her circumstances should require
it, they are impowered to draw on the treasurer for a sum not ex-
ceeding thirty dollars.
98 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, unanimously, that the above committee be empowered
to defray the expenses of repairing the damage done Mrs. Aubin
by the blowing down of her chimney, they are empowered to draw
on the treasurer for the amount.
Funds of the society :
Four shares in Massachusetts bank $2000.00
Thirteen shares in Newburyport bank $1300.00
Navy, six per cent, stock $1500.00
Massachusetts, six per cent, stock $ 600.00
New Hampshire, six per cent, stock $1007.92
One Massachusetts state note $ 291.99
Benjamin Rogers, bond $ 250.00
Cash on hand $ 305.62
$7255-53
December 19, 1804.
Signed, BENJAMIN WYATT.
Feb. 28, 1805, voted, to accept the report of the committee as
follows :
Gentlemen of the Marine Society :
We the subscribers being appointed a committee to make in-
quiry into the particular situation of Mrs. H. Knapp, report that
we find her circumstances require immediate relief, and is an object
of our future attention, we have drawn on the treasurer for the
sum of twenty-five dollars which has been paid her. Likewise we
have drawn on the treasurer for a further sum of twenty dollars,
which has been paid to Mrs. A. Aubin agreeable to the vote of the
society.
BENJAMIN WYATT,
WILLIAM RUSSELL,
SEWELL TOPPAN,
Committee.
March 28, 1805, voted, that Capt. Daniel Farley be dismissed
from the society by his request.
Sept. 26, 1805, voted, that the committee on donations be and
hereby are authorized to draw on the treasurer for sixteen dollars
and pay the same to the widow of William Knapp, deceased, and
the treasurer be directed to pay the same.
Oct. 31, 1805, Capt. Thomas Morrison, (by letter), expressed
his desire to become a member of this society.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 99
Capt. Jeremiah Young was proposed by Capt. Isaac Stone as
a candidate for admission into the Marine Society.
Voted, to celebrate the anniversary of this society at Mr. Per-
kins' by a public dinner on the thirteenth day of December next.
That Capt. William Russell and Capt. Titcomb be caterers for
providing the dinner.
Nov. 28, 1805, officers chosen :
Capt. Michael Hodge, President.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Vice President.
Capt. Benjamin Wyatt, Treasurer.
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, Secretary.
Capt. Thomas Morrison and Capt. Jeremiah Young were
unanimously admitted members of this society.
Voted, that Capts. Michael Hodge, Nicholas Johnson, Israel
Young, Edmund Kimball, and Ebenezer Stocker, be a committee
to manage the funds and estate of the society for the ensuing year.
Voted, that Capts. Wyatt St. Barbe, Michael Titcomb, Sewell
Toppan, Samuel Chase, and Edmund Kimball, be a committee to
supply the widows and orphans of the society the ensuing year, not
to exceed thirty dollars to any person.
Voted, that Capt. William Russell is authorized to supply
Capt. Benjamin Rogers with seven dollars per month for the relief
of himself and family.
Voted, that the sum the new members shall pay on admis-
sion into the society, the ensuing year shall be twenty-seven dol-
lars.
Voted, that the society meet at Mr. Perkins' the year ensuing.
Voted, that this meeting be adjourned to the second Thursday
in December at one-half past one o'clock.
Dec. 26, 1805, Capt. Isaac Adams was proposed as a candidate
for admission into this society by Capt. George Jenkins.
Capt. Joseph Seveir was proposed by Capt. William Russell.
Feb. 27, 1806, voted, that the society will pay Capt. William
Russell, eight dollars and fifty cents, which he expended for linen
for Col. Wigglesworth, and that he is further authorized to supply
him with money necessary for his expenses home not exceeding
twenty dollars, at his discretion.
Sept. 25, 1806, Capt. James Francis has expressed a desire to
become a member of this society.
Oct. 7, 1806, at a special meeting of the Marine Society of
Newburyport, duly warned and notified, met at the house of
IOO RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Thomas Perkins, innholder in said Newburyport on this seventh
day of October, A. D., 1806.
It was voted that Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, secretary of
said society be and he is hereby impowered to sell, assign and
transfer two thousand one hundred dollars of the Navy 6 per cent,
stock of the United States, standing in the name of the Marine So-
ciety of Newburyport on the books of Benjamin Austin, Esq.,
Commissioner of Loans in the state of Massachusetts.
Oct. 30, 1806, voted, to celebrate the anniversary of this so-
ciety by a dinner at Thomas Perkins' on Thursday, December II,
Voted, that William Russell, William Wyer, be caterers to
provide a dinner to be on the table at 2 o'clock.
Nov. 2,7, 1806, officers chosen :
Capt. Michael Hodge, President.
Capt. Israel Young, Vice President.
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, Secretary.
Capt. Benjamin Wyatt, Treasurer.
Voted, that the sum the new members shall pay be thirty dol-
lars.
Voted, that the society meet at Mr. Perkins' the year ensuing.
Capts. Isaac Adams, Capt. Joseph Seveir, and Capt. James
Francis, were unanimously admitted as members of this society.
Voted, that Capts. Michael Hodge, William Russell, Israel
Young, Edmund Kimball and Ebenezer Stocker, be a committee
to manage the funds of the society for the ensuing year.
Voted, that Capts. Wyatt St. Barbe, Michael Titcomb, Sewall
Toppan, Samuel Chase, and Edmund Kimball, be a committee to
supply the widows and orphans of the society the ensuing year,
not to exceed thirty dollars to any one person.
It is the request of the society that the above committee in-
quire into the state of the orphans of our late member, Capt Eben-
ezer Choate, deceased.
Voted, that Capt. William Russell is authorized to supply
Capt. Benjamin Rogers with seven dollars per month for the relief
of himself and family.
Dec. 25, 1806, voted, that seventy-five dollars be deposited in
the hands of the committee for donations to be disposed of in such
portions to Anna, Benjamin and John Choate as they shall judge
proper and those portions paid into the hands of their respective
guardians.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT IOI
Voted, that A. Wheelwright be agent for the society to receive
the income of their funds in Boston.
Capt. Moses Goodrich, and Capt. Nathaniel Fletcher were
proposed as candidates for membership.
March 26, 1807, voted, that Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, sec-
retary of the Marine Society be and hereby is authorized and em-
powered for and in the name of the said society to subscribe for
and procure four additional shares in the Massachusetts bank, also
to hire such sum or sums of money as may be necessary and to
pledge any part of the stock of said society which may be required
for that purpose, and also to receive any dividends that already
have or may become due from the funds belonging to or standing
in the name of the said society, in this state of Massachusetts.
April 30, 1907, it is the request of Capts. Samuel Foster, John
Elliott, David Lufkin, Caleb Lufkin, and Isaac Rand, to become
members of this society.
Voted, that Capt. William Coombs be requested to transfer
the stock in the Massachusetts bank, now standing in his name (in
trust for the society) into said society.
May 28, 1807, Capt. Joseph Tyler was proposed a candidate
for admission into this society, by Capt. Charles Hodge.
Aug. 2.J, 1807, Capt. David Stickney was proposed a candidate
for admission into this society, by Capt. Isaac Stone.
Capt. Paul Simpson, proposes himself as a candidate for ad-
mission into this society.
Oct. 29, 1807, Capt. Thomas Follansbee and Capt. Joseph
Patch were proposed as candidates for admission into this society,
by Capt. William Russell.
Voted, to notify Capt. John O'Brien that he is a delinquent
member.
Voted, to celebrate the anniversary of this society by a dinner
at Prince L. Stetson's, on Thursday, December 10, 1807.
Voted, that Capt. William Russell and Capt. Samuel Chase
be caterers to provide a dinner to be on the table at 2 p. m.
Nov. 26, 1807, officers chosen:
Capt. Michael Hodge, President.
Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe, Vice President.
Capt. Benjamin Wyatt, Treasurer.
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, Secretary.
Voted, to augment the number of the Marine Society to sixty.
102 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, to admit the following persons as members of the so-
ciety :
Capt. Moses Goodrich $30.25 admittance
Capt. Nathaniel Fletcher $30.25 admittance
Capt. Samuel Foster $30.25 admittance
Capt. John Elliott admittance
Capt. David Lufkin $30.25 admittance
Capt. Caleb Lufkin $30.25 admittance
Capt. Isaac Rand $30.25 admittance
Capt. Joseph Tyler $30.25 admittance
Capt. David Stickney $30.25 admittance
Capt. Paul Simpson $30.25 admittance
Capt. Thomas Follansbee $30.25 admittance
Capt. Joseph Patch $30.25 admittance
$33275
Voted, that Oapts. Michael Hodge, William Russell, Sewali
Toppan, Eleazer Johnson and Edmund Kimball be a committee
to manage the society's estate the ensuing year.
Voted, that Capts. Wyatt St. Barbe, Samuel Chase, Sewali
Toppan, Isaac Stone and John March, be a committee to look into
the circumstances, and relieve the widows and orphans of the so-
ciety the ensuing year, not to exceed thirty dollars to any one
person.
Voted, that Capt. William Russell be authorized to supply
Capt. Benjamin Rogers with seven dollars per month for the relief
of himself and family.
Jan. 28, 1808, society's funds:
Eight shares in Massachusetts bank $4000.00
Thirteen shares in Newburyport bank 1300.00
One N. H. loan office certificate 1007.92
One N. H. loan office certificate 1703.86
One N. H. loan office certificate 1240.47
One Mass. loan office certificate 600.00
One Mass. state note 291.99
Benjamin Rogers' note 5th June, 1799 250.00
Cash in hands of the treasurer 185.13
$10,579-37
Note due the Newburyport bank 1,300.00
$ 9,279-37
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT IO3
Unpaid donations to the children of E. Choate 75.00
$ 9,204.37
Jan. 21, 1808.
WILLIAM RUSSELL,
MICHAEL HODGE,
SEWALL TOPPAN,
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
Committee.
There remains due from four members absent, their entrance
money, one hundred and one dollars.
Voted, to grant the prayer of the petition of Benjamin Lunt,
Jr., and that the society recommend him as a proper person for a
pilot for the harbor of Newburyport, to the Governor and Council
of this Commonwealth.
Voted, that Capts. Isaac Stone, Isaac Adams, and Michael
Hodge, be a committee to ascertain for what sum an appropriate
plate for a certificate can be procured and to report at the next
meeting.
Voted, to give twenty-five dollars from the funds of this so-
ciety to Capt. William Pickett for the use of the children of Capt.
William Orne to be distributed by him as he may think proper.
Voted, to accept the following and that the clerk record it in
the books of this society.
Whereas difficulties and disputes have frequently arisen be-
tween the Marine Society and St. Peter's Lodge respecting the
right of precedence at funerals where the deceased had been a
member of each institution, and whereas a solemn agreement was
entered into between the committees of each body chosen for that
purpose on the 31st of January, 1788, and on that same evening en-
tered on record in the books of the said Marine Society, that in all
future processions where the deceased has been a member of both
societies, that body should take the precedence of which the de-
ceased had been the oldest member, notwithstanding which agree-
ment the said lodge did in a recent instance assume the precedence,
though the deceased was not a member of said lodge, nor was it
known by said lodge (it is believed) that he was a Mason until after
his decease, when a certificate from a lodge in France in which he
was initiated was produced by his friends, and whereas the said
lodge did on that occasion declare by their committee that it
would be derogatory to them in any instance to yield the prece-
dence to the marine or any other society, and that they were
104 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
inflexibly determined to maintain it on every occasion, and the
said Marine Society in order to preserve decency and avoid conten-
tion on that solemn occasion, did place themselves in the body of
the procession after the mourners, and not precede the corpse as
had been heretofore their usual practice. Now to prevent in fu-
ture any difficulty with said lodge or any other lodge or body of
Masons, it is hereby resolved and voted that the society will not in
procession attend the funeral of any deceased member who was
also a Mason, unless the widow or friends of the deceased inform
the society that neither St. Peter's Lodge or any other body of
Masons are to attend the funeral, or that if they do attend, they
will comply with the above recited agreement.
Feb. 25, 1808, voted, to accept the report of the committee ap-
pointed to ascertain the expense of a plate for the purpose of fur-
nishing a certificate emblematical of the society for each member.
Voted, that a plate be procured and that each member which
wishes shall be furnished with a certificate for two dollars and that
the committee be authorized to draw on the treasurer for the
amount and that the former committee to ascertain the price be a
comlmittee to carry this vote into effect.
To the President, Directors and Brethren of the Marine Society
of Newburyport :
Gentlemen : Your committee appointed to see what it would
cost for the engraving of a plate emblematical of the institution of
the society with a certificate for the same and furnishing one hun-
dred copies, beg leave to report that they have attended to that
trust and find that they can procure such a one as in their opinion
would be pleasing and satisfactory to the society, for one hundred
and fifty dollars.
ISAAC STONE, Chairman.
Newburyport, Feb. 28, 1808.
March 31, 1808, voted, to choose a committee to confer with
Mr. Jacob Cobourn on the subject of removing to his hotel and
there to hold our meetings in future.
Capts. Nicholas Johnson, Israel Young and William Russell
are chosen.
The committee have waited on Mr. Cobourn and report that
the society in their opinion can be accommodated. The report is
accepted.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT IO5
Voted, that this society meet at Mr. Jacob Cobourn's at their
next monthly meeting, unanimous.
Voted, that the above committee be desired to wait on Mr.
Prince L. Stetson and return him the thanks of the society for
his attention to them and inform him of the above vote..
June 30, 1808, Capt. John Denney is proposed as a candidate
for admittance into the society, by Capt A. Wheelwright.
July 28, 1808, voted, that Capts. Isaac Stone, Charles C, Rabo-
teau and Sewell Toppan, be a committee to confer with a commit-
tee from the merchants respecting the rebuilding the lighthouse on
Plumb Island on an enlarged plan.
Sept. 29, 1808, Capt. Daniel Stone was proposed as a candidate
for admission into this society, by his brother, Capt. Jacob Stone.
Oct. 27, 1808, voted, that Edward St. Lou Livermore, Esq.,
be agent and attorney of this Marine Society to receive all the
dividends which have been transmitted from the loan office in
Boston to the treasury of the United States in Washington, not
having been demanded according to law, and that the president be
requested to sign a power in the name of said society for that pur-
pose.
Voted, to celebrate the anniversary of this Marine Society, by
a dinner at Mr. Jacob Cobourn's on the second Tuesday in Decem-
ber.
Voted, to desire Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe, and William Russell to
serve as caterers to provide the dinner to be on the table at half
past one o'clock.
Nov. 24, 1808, officers chosen :
Capt. Michael Hodge, President.
Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe, Vice President.
(declined to serve.)
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Vice President.
Capt. Benjamin Wyatt, Treasurer.
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, Secretary.
(declined to serve.)
Capt. George Jenkins, Secretary.
Voted, that the numbers of this society be increased to sev-
enty.
Voted, that the committee for managing the society's funds
consist of Capt. Michael Hodge, Capt. William Russell, Capt.
Sewall Toppan, Capt. Eleazer Johnson, and Capt. Edmund Kim-
ball.
106 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, that Capts. Wyatt St. Barbe, Samuel Chase, Sewall
Toppan, John March, and Michael Titcomb, be a committee to
distribute to each widow and orphan of this society, a sum not
exceeding thirty dollars and that at their discretion.
Voted, that Capt. Benjamin Rogers be allowed seven dollars
per month for the year ensuing.
Voted, that Capt. John Denney be admitted a member of this
society.
Voted, that Capt. Joseph Perkins of Ipswich and Capt. Joseph
O'Brien, stand as candidates for members of this society as pro-
posed by Oapts. Abraham Wheelwright and William Russell.
Dec. 29, 1808, Capt. George Jenkins declined standing as sec-
retary of this society and was excused.
Capt. Charles Hodge was chosen secretary pro tern.
Voted that Mr. Joshua Tappan be agent of this society to re-
ceive all monies due this society, or that shall become due as divi-
dends from their stock in Boston and that the president be
authorized to sign a power in the name of the society for that pur-
pose.
Jan. 26, 1809, voted, that Capt. John O'Brien be summoned
agreeable to the bye laws of the society, he being absent more than
six months.
Voted, that the secretary be desired to call upon the members
of the society for their dues that come under the bye laws of the
society.
The committee for settling the accounts of the Marine Society
of Newburyport, beg leave to report that they have examined the
secretary's books and find them properly stated, well avouched,
and rightly cast, and that the treasurer's accounts are agreeable
thereto and that the estate consists of bank stock, securities and
cash.
Eight shares Newburyport bank
Thirteen shares Newburyport bank
One New Hampshire loan certificate
One New Hampshire loan certificate
One New Hampshire loan certificate
One Massachusetts state note
Benjamin Rogers note, June 5, 1799
One Massachusetts loan office certificate
Nominal.
Real.
$4000.00
$4000.00
1300.00
1300.00
1007.42
580.00
1703.86
980.00
1240.47
1091.20
233-59
233 i ?9
250.00
250.00
600.00
345-00
$10,33534 $877979
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 107
Due the Newburyport bank $900.00
Due Capt. Wyatt $150-39
$1050.39
Due from Capt. John Elliot, for admittance
$7729.40
30.00
$775940
Newburyport, Jan. 9, 1809.
MICHAEL HODGE,
WILLIAM RUSSELL,
EDWARD KIMBALL,
SEWELL TOPPAN,
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
Committee.
The President and Members of the Marine Society :
Gentlemen : Your committee have received from the treas-
urer, the sum of $310 for the use of the widows and orphans of the
deceased members of this society and have distributed it in the fol-
lowing order, viz :
Mrs. William Friend $30
Mrs. B. F. Knap 30
Mrs. William Knap 30
Mrs. P. Aubin 20
Orphans of Capt. E. Choate 50
Mrs. William Nicholls 20
Mrs. Joseph Moulton 30
Mrs. I. H. Woodman 30
Mrs. Jonathan Young 20
Orphans of Capt. Orne 50
WYATT ST. BARBE,
SEWELL TOPPAN
SAMUEL CHASE,
$310
Committee.
April 27, 1809, voted, that Capts. William Coombs, Michael
Hodge, Isaac Adams, Nicholas Johnson and Sewell Toppan be a
committee to consult with the trade of this town respecting the re-
building of the lighthouses on Plumb Island, to determine on the
best mode in their opinion to effect the same and to put the same
into execution.
108 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
July 27, 1809, voted, that this society will take eight additional
shares in the Massachusetts bank, being informed by the cashier
the bank have voted to double their stock.
Voted, that the committee for managing the society's estate
be a committee to sell the six per cent stock and state note or hire
the money to pay the first installment for the eight shares in Mas-
sachusetts bank as they shall judge will be most for the interest of
the society.
Voted, that the president of the society be and he hereby is au-
thorized to empower any person or persons to sell and transfer the
six per cent stock and state note standing in the name of the Ma-
rine Society.
Sept. 28, 1809, voted, that Michael Hodge, president of this
Marine Society be and he hereby is authorized to empower in the
name of the said Marine Society, any person whom he shall judge
suitable to sell, assign and transfer, one certificate of the six per
cent stock for two thousand seven hundred eleven dollars and
twenty-eight cents, One certificate of the deferred six per cent
stock for twelve hundred forty dollars and forty-seven cents, which
certificates are now transferred from the loan office in New
Hampshire to the loan office in Massachusetts, also one
certificate of six per cent stock for six hundred dollars,
standing on the books of Benjamin Austin, Esq., Commis-
sioner of the United States Loan Office in Massachusetts, likewise
one state note of Massachusetts for two hundred thirty-three dol-
lars and fifty-nine cents, all standing in the name of the said Marine
Society, and to do and perform in behalf of said society all legal
acts necessary to carry this vote into effect.
Oct. 26, 1809, voted, that Capts. Abraham Wheelwright, and
Stephen Holland, be a committee to answer a letter from Ebenezer
Coffin directed to Edward Little, Esq., to be communicated to the
Marine Society, stating the needy situation of Mrs. Elizabeth
Bailey, a daughter of Capt. Samuel Newhall, deceased, requesting
the assistance of the society, that it is considered by the society,
that Mrs. Bailey cannot be entitled to any assistance from the
funds of the society having by her marriage forfeited that right.
A report of the sales of the loan office certificates and state
note belonging to the Marine Society of Newburyport, and of the
purchase of eight shares in the Massachusetts bank by their com-
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT IO9
mittee agreeably to a vote of the said society of the 27th of July
last, viz:
2 certificates $2711.78
1 certificate 600.00
$3311.78 at 55, 58, 8 is 1840,95.2 at 101 3-4 $1873.16.6
1 deferred " $1240.47 at 79.17.2 is 982.10.5 at 101 3-4 999.29.1
$2872.45.7
1 Massachusetts state note 333.59 at 99 231.25.4
Cash received for interest on state note $ 11.67
Cash received from Massachusetts bank $160.00
$3103.71.1
171.67.
$3275.38.1
Cash had of N. Johnson to pay first installment $1500.00
Cash had of M. Hodge to pay first installment 500.00
$2000.00.0
Cash paid Michael Hodge $500.00.0
Cash paid Michael Hodge, interest 4.08.0
Expense to Portsmouth to transfer stock 5-90-5
Cash paid Nicholas Johnson 759-63-0
Cash paid treasurer 5.76.6
$1275.38.1
$3275.38.i
Paid in the second installment to Massachusetts bank 2000.00.0
Remains due to Capt. Nicholas Johnson to complete the
sum of $4000 paid to Massachusetts bank for 8 shares 740.37.0
Newburyport, 26th Oct. 1809.
M. HODGE,
WILLIAM RUSSELL,
EDMUND KIMBALL,
SEWELL TOPPAN,
Committee.
Nov. 30, 1809, officers chosen :
Capt. M. Hodge, President.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Vice President.
Capt. Benjamin Wyatt, Treasurer.
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, Secretary.
Voted, that Capts. William Pickett, Jacob Stone, John Marsh,
Moses Goodrich and Benjamin Peirce, be a committee to visit the
widows and orphans of the deceased members of this society, to
IIO RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
inquire into their circumstances, and make report at the next meet-
ing of those whom they shall judge to be objects of the society's
relief and the several sums, which in their opinion ought to be dis-
tributed to them.
Voted, that Capts. Michael Hodge, William Russell, Edmund
Kimball, Sewell Toppan and Jacob Stone be a committee to man-
age and dispose for their benefit, the society's estate for the year
ensuing under the direction of the society.
Voted, that Capt. Benjamin Rogers be allowed seven dollars
monthly during the ensuing year, and that Capt. William Russell
be a committee to supply him to that amount in such necessaries
for himself and wife as he in his discretion shall judge most fit
and suitable.
Capt. Joseph Perkins was admitted a member of this society.
Capt. Joseph O'Brien was admitted a member of this society.
Voted, that the members admitted into this society this pres-
ent year pay thirty-five dolars into the funds each on admittance.
Voted, that the Marine Society will hold their meetings at Mr.
Cobourne's for the ensuing year.
Capt. Samuel Hunt and John Dole were proposed for mem-
bership, by Capt. Goodrich.
Dec. 28, 1809, Capt. Robert Follansbee was proposed by Capt.
Fletcher as a candidate for admission into the Marine Society.
Voted, that Capt. Henry Friend be excused from paying the
fines and dues he now stands charged with, to the society and in
future be exempted from any charge of dues or fines by reason of
his age, infirmities and situation in life.
Newburyport, December 27, 1809.
We the committee being appointed by the Marine Society of
this town to acquaint ourselves with the situation and circumstan-
ces of the widows and orphans of the deceased members of this
society, do beg leave to make this our return :
Widow Elizabeth Friend $30
Widow Mrs. B. F. Knap 30
Widow Mrs. William Knap 30
Widow Mrs. Philip Aubin 20
Widow Mrs. Nicholas 20
Widow Mrs. Joseph Woodman 40
Widow Mrs. Jonathan Moulton 40
Two youngest orphans of Capt E. Choate 40
Two youngest orphans of Capt. Wm. Orne 50
$300
THB MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT III
And we have concluded to submit the above statement to your
consideration, earnestly requesting you to be so good as to ac-
cept this our return, and to allow the sums to the persons as above
stated
WILLIAM PICKETT,
BENJAMIN PIERCE,
JACOB STONE,
JOHN MARCH,
MOSES GOODRICH,
Committee on Donations.
Voted, that the above report of the committee be accepted.
Voted, that the committee appointed in Jan. 1808 to procure a
plate emblematical of the society, be desired to confer with Mr.
Hooker and make such arrangement and settlement with him re-
specting the plate he has engraved for the society, as they or the
majority of them may think best.
Voted, that the treasurer be and he hereby is authorized to
procure such sums as may be wanted to meet the demands of this
society upon him not exceeding three hundred dollars.
Voted, that the treasurer be and he hereby is authorized to
hire a sum of money sufficient to take up the society's note at
I\i ewburyport bank, provided the interest shall not exceed six per
cent.
Voted, that Capt. Joseph Perkins be dismissed from this so-
ciety at his request.
Voted, that Capt. Joseph O'Brien be dismissed from this so-
ciety at his request.
(The above two captains were voted in as members Nov. 30,
1809, and dismissed as above, Dec. 27, 1809.)
Jan. 25, 1810, at the commencement of this year, 133 members
had joined this society, of whom
58 were living
48 were dead
10 were disfranchised
2 were expelled
14 fate unknown
1 resigned
133
Your committee appointed at the last monthly meeting to ad-
just and settle with Mr. Hooker for a plate and one hundred copies
of a certificate emblematical of the society, which are ready for
112
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
delivery, ask leave to report that they effected the business as-
signed them by receiving from Mr. Hooker the plate and one hun-
dred copies, that they have paid him by an order on the treasurer
for one hundred and fifty dollars and taken his receipt in full. Your
committee have engaged to Mr. Hooker, that provided Capt. Isaac
Stone on his return from sea shall say that he perfectly recollects
that the bargain made with Mr. Hooker was for a greater sum,
that they will use their influence with the society to make him a
further consideration, but your committee have not pledged them-
selves that the society shall comply with their recommendation.
Voted, to accept the foregoing report of the committee ap-
pointed to settle with Mr. Hooker and Fairman.
Voted, that a certificate emblematical of the society be pre-
sented to the widows of the deceased members.
Feb. 22, 1810, Capt. John Odiorne was proposed for member-
ship by Capt. N. Fletcher.
Funds of the society:
16 shares in Massachusetts bank
13 shares in Newburyport bank
Benjamin Rogers note
Cash due Newburyport bank
Cash due Nicholas Johnson
$620.00
740.37
Due from the treasurer to balance
Newburyport, 20th February, 1810.
M. HODGE,
WILLIAM RUSSELL,
EDMUND KIMBALL,
SEWELL TOPPAN,
JACOB STONE,
$8000.00
1300.00
250.00
$955o.oo
1360.37
$8189.63
1958
$8209.21
Committee.
March 29, 1810, Capt. Joseph Bragdon was proposed by Capt.
Joseph Tyler, as a candidate for admission to the Marine Society.
Voted, that Capts.John March, Paul Simpson and Jacob Stone
be a committee to call upon all the delinquent members for their
fines and dues and report without delay.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT II3
Voted, that whereas Capt. Richard Toppan a member of this
society, has met with a distressing loss by fire, therefore that his
dues amounting to seven dollars and ten cents be remitted to him,
and that the secretary be desired to inform him thereof.
April 26, 1 810, Capt. John O'Brien was excused ten fines on
account of sickness.
Voted, to excuse Capt. John O'Brien from his attendance on
the monthly meetings on account of his infirm state of health, he
paying his regular dues.
Voted, to accept the following report agreeable to the order
of the Marine Society.
We the undersignd ask leave to report, that we have visited
Capt. John O'Brien, who said he would attend the society and set-
tle his fines and dues. Capt. Isaac G. Pearson said he was unable
to attend, but sent money to pay his dues. Capt. Joseph Brown
said he would meet with the society and settle fines and dues.
JOHN MARCH,
JACOB STONE,
Committee.
June 28, 1810, voted, that Capts. David Stickney and Peter
Le Breton, Jr., be a committee to present in the name of the Ma-
rine Society the emblematical certificates of the said society to the
widows of the deceased members of said society.
Aug. 30, 1810, voted, that Capts. John Coombs, Michael Tit-
comb and Nicholas Johnson, be a committee to make inquiry
whether a pilot for this harbor is necessary in the room of one
lately deceased, and if so, whether Benjamin Lunt, Jr., is a proper
person and well qualified for a pilot, he having been recommended
by B. Perkins, pilot.
Voted, that Capts. Nicholas Johnson, Benjamin Wyatt, and
Israel Young, be a committee to make inquiry for the most conve-
nient place for this society to meet at, from and after the meeting
in September next, (Mr. Cobourne having concluded to leave the
house the society now meet in about that time) and make their re-
port at the next monthly meeting.
Sept. 27, 1810, voted, to excuse Capt. Israel Young his dues,
having been unfortunate in being captured during his late voy-
age.
Voted, unanimously, that Benjamin Lunt, Jr., of Newbury is a
person in their opinion, capable and suitable to undertake the busi-
8
114 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
ness of pilotage into and out of the river Merrimack, and that he
be recommended accordingly.
The committee appointed to make inquiry for the most suit-
able place for this society to meet in after Mr. Cobourne's removal
from this house, report that in their opinion the society can be best
accommodated at Mr. Cobourne's, therefore it was voted that in
future the meetings of the Marine Society be held at Mr. Stetson's,
sign of General Wolf in Newburyport.
Nov. 29, 1810, voted, to excuse Capt. Moses Brown, Jr., his
dues during his absence, having been unfortunate in his voyage by
capture.
Officers chosen :
Capt. Michael Hodge, President.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Vice President.
Capt. Benjamin Wyatt, Treasurer.
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, Secretary.
Voted, that Capt. Benjamin Rogers be allowed seven dollars
monthly during the ensuing year, and that Capt. William Russell
be a committee to supply him to that amount in such necessaries
as he shall judge most fit and suitable, and that he draw upon the
treasurer, who is hereby authorized to pay the same.
Voted, that Capts. Abraham Wheelwright, Michael Titcomb
and John Coombs, be a committee to make inquiry whether it is
necessary for another pilot to be appointed for the river Merri-
mack, and in case it should appear necessary, to report a suitable
person at the next meeting.
Voted, that the Marine Society will hold their meetings at Mr.
Stetson's for the ensuing year.
Voted, that the members of the Marine Society have a dinner,
and that the expense be taken from the funds of the society, that
the day be this day two weeks.
Committee to manage the society's funds :
Capt. Michael Hodge,
Capt. William Russell,
Capt. Sewell Toppan,
Capt. Edmund Kimball,
Capt. Jacob Stone.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 115
Committee on relief of the widows and orphans of deceased
members :
Capt. Isaac Adams,
Capt. Stephen Holland,
Capt. Isaac Stone, \
Capt. Benjamin Peirce,
Capt. Paul Simpson.
Capt. Samuel Hunt was admitted a member.
Capt. John Dole was admitted a member.
Capt. Robert Follansbee was admitted a member.
Capt. Joseph Bragdon was admitted a member.
Voted, that the members admitted into this society for the en-
suing year shall pay thirty-five dollars each.
Capt. William Nichols was proposed by Capt. Nicholas Peirce
for admission into the Marine Society.
Dec. 27, 1810.
Received from Capt. Samuel Hunt, entrance and book $35-25
Received from Capt. John Dole, entrance and book 35.25
Received from Capt. Joseph Bragdon, entrance and book 35-25
Received from Capt. R. Follansbee, entrance and book 35-25
Received from Capt. D. Stickney, two certificates 400
$145-00
Dec. 27, 1 810, voted, to accept the report of the committee on
donations, and that the treasurer be authorized to pay to them
three hundred fifty-five dollars for distribution.
Voted, to accept the report of the committee appointed to
make inquiry and ascertain whether another pilot is, or is not
necessary for the trade of the river Merrmack.
To the President of the Newburyport Marine Society :
Sir; — The committee appointed at the last meeting to en-
quire into the situation of such as in their opinion are suitable ob-
jects of the society's charity, have given their particular attention
to that duty and offer thereon the following report, that they con-
sider the persons whose names immediately follow, and who have
heretofore received assistance from the society as entitled respect-
fully to the sums affixed to their names, and recommend that the
same be paid from the funds.
n6
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
To the widow Elizabeth Friend $30
To the widow of B. Felt Knap 30
To the widow of William Knap 30
To the widow of Philip Aubin 20
To the widow of Jonathan Moulton 30
To the widow of William Nichols 20
To the widow of Joseph Woodman 40
Youngest daughter of Ebenezer Choate 25
Two orphan daughters of William Orne 30
In addition to the above the committee have been made ac-
quainted with the circumstances of two others, whom they recom-
mend deserving particular attention and relief from the society,
and request that they be respectfully allowed from its funds as fol-
lows:
To the widow of Samuel Foster
To the widow of Enoch Pike
40
30
Your committee likewise take the liberty of requesting that our an-
cient and worthy brother, Capt. St. Barbe receive from the treasurer, $30.
Total, $355.
ISAAC ADAMS,
STEPHEN HOLLAND,
ISAAC STONE,
PAUL SIMPSON,
Newburyport, Dec. 27, 1810.
Jan. 31, 1811, society's funds:
16 shares in Massachusetts bank
13 shares in Newburyport bank
Benjamin Rogers note
Cash due Capt. Nicholas Johnson
Newburyport 28th January, 1811.
M. HODGE,
WILLIAM RUSSELL,
SEWELL TOPPAN,
EDMUND KIMBALL,
JACOB STONE,
Committee.
$8000.00
1300.00
250.00
$9550.00
1012.62
$8537.38
Committee.
THB MARINE SOCIETY OF NKWBURYPORT 117
July 25, 181 1, voted to excuse Capt James Myer his dues
during his late voyage, $2.50, he having lost his vessel by the
Danes.
Oct. 30, 181 1, Capt. Green Johnson was proposed by Capt.
Sewell Toppan as a candidate for admission into the Marine So-
ciety.
Nov. 28, 181 1, voted, to excuse Capt. Cushing, he having been
taken and lost his vessel in Norway.
Officers elected :
Capt. Michael Hodge, President.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Vice President.
Capt. Sewell Toppan, Treasurer.
Capt. Isaac Stone, Secretary.
Voted, that Capt. Benjamin Rogers be allowed seven dollars
monthly the ensuing year, and that Capt. William Russell be a
committee to supply him to that amount in such necessaries as he
shall judge most fit and suitable, and that he draw on the treasurer
who is hereby authorized to pay the same.
Voted that the society hold their meetings at the house of
Mr. Prince Stetson the ensuing year.
Voted, that the committee to manage the society's estate
consist of Capts. Michael Hodge, Edmund Kimball, Jacob Stone,
George Jenkins and Eleazer Johnson.
Voted, that the committee to enquire into the circumstances
of the widows and orphans of deceased members consist of Capts.
Isaac Adams, Stephen Holland, Isaac Stone, Paul Simpson and
Benjamin Peirce.
Voted, that Captains Green Johnson and William Nichols be
admitted as members of this society and that Capts. Sewell Top-
pan and George Jenkins be a committee to introduce the above
named gentlemen to this society.
Voted, that thirty-five dollars be the sum for admission into
this society the ensuing year.
Voted, that the admittance money paid by Capt. Samuel Hunt,
deceased, be refunded to his widow.
Voted, to reconsider the last vote respecting the widow of
Capt. Samuel Hunt, and that she is entitled to temporary relief.
1 18 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, unanimously, that this society dine together at the
house of Mr. Prince Stetson, on Thursday, the 12th day of Decem-
ber, next ensuing.
Voted, unanimously, that the expenses of the dinner be paid
from the funds of this society.
Voted, that Capts. Michael Titcomb and Peter Le Breton, Jr.,
be caterers to order the dinner, etc.
Dec. 26, 181 1, donation committee report:
Widow of Capt. William Friend $30
Widow of Joseph Woodman 40
Two orphans of Capt. William Orne 30
Widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe 40
Widow of Capt. Benjamin F. Knap 40
Widow of Capt. William Knap 30
Widow of Capt. Jonathan Moulton 40
Widow of Capt. Philip Aubin 40
Capt. Henry Friend 30
$320
ISAAC ADAMS,
STEPHEN HOLLAND,
PAUL SIMPSON,
JACOB STONE,
Committee.
Voted, that Capts. Michael Hodge, Nicholas Johnson, and
Benjamin Wyatt be a committee to enquire into the particular
situation of the orphans of Capt. William Orne (deceased) and
make such provision for their support and relief as they shall judge
proper.
Voted, to order the treasurer to pay the bill for a dinner for
this society on the 12th of December, amounting to $52.
Jan. 30, 181 2, voted, that the committee chosen in December
last to take charge of the orphans of Capt. William Orne, de-
ceased, be requested and authorized to continue the same for this
year, and advise with the Judge of Probate and have the estate of
said deceased properly settled.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 1 9
Funds of the society:
16 shares in Massachusetts bank $8000.00
13 shares in Newburyport bank 1300.00
Benjamin Rogers' note 250.00
$9S50.oo
Deduct the amount of the society's note
given to Capt. Nicholas Johnson,
dated the 15th January, 1812 652.05
$8897-95
Newburyport, 15th January, 1812.
Report of the committee to enquire into the situation of the
orphans of Capt. William Orne, deceased.
Your committee appointed to enquire into the particular sit-
uation of the orphans of Capt. William Orne, deceased, and to
make such provision for their support and relief as they shall judge
proper, beg leave to report that they have attended to the duties
enjoined on them by the society by having had a personal inter-
view with Mrs. Guy, an aged person and grandmother to the said
orphans under whose care they have been since the decease of
their mother. Your committee found them destitute of almost
every necessary of life, and Mrs. Guy so much impaired by age,
and the decay of nature as to be (in our opinion) unsuitable and en-
tirely incapable of continuing the care and charge of those orphans.
We also by inquiry found that the personal estate of the deceased
with the greatest part of the furniture and clothing had been dis-
posed of and gone. We therefore judged it necessary for them to
break up housekeeping. We have taken an inventory of what re-
mained and deposited it with Miss Mary Wessells, and agreed with
her to keep the two orphans for one year, we finding their clothing
and paying her seventy-five cents per week at the expiration of the
year. Miss Wessells will take the eldest as an apprentice, teach
her the millinery trade, and find her clothing, etc. We found the
house of the deceased in tolerable good repair, a part of it is oc-
cupied at present by a family on a rent of sixty dollars a year.
MICHAEL HODGE,
NICHOLAS JOHNSON,
Committee.
120 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Copy of a letter from Capt. Edward Wigglesworth :
Wiscasset, Jan. 1812.
Michael Hodge, Esq. To be laid before the Marine Society of Newbury-
port:
Sir: — It is now six years since I had the pleasure to meet your so-
ciety. I was an early member and a constant attendant, but necessity
forced me to this place, where I now have grown very old and poor, and
work hard. My request is, that if the society's funds are in such a state
as to afford me a small temporary relief at this season of the year, I shall
be glad to be a partaker.
With my best wishes for the prosperity and welfare of the society, I
am, sir Your most obedient
EDWARD WIGGLESWORTH.
Feb. 27, 1812, voted, that the president of the society be au-
thorized to send Capt. Edward Wigglesworth the sum of twenty
dollars as a temporary relief agreeably to his request, and to draw
on the treasurer of this society for the same.
April 30, 1812, voted, to excuse Capts. Nicholas Johnson and
Joseph Seveir their fines of fifty cents each, for non-attendance at
the funeral of our deceased brother, Capt. Benjamin Rogers, on
the 14th inst, they having given satisfactory reasons as being nec-
essarily detained.
To excuse Capt. Daniel Stone his monthly dues amounting to
$2.30 during his absence, he having been captured and lost his ves-
sel.
Voted, that the president of this society and Capt. William
Russell, be a committee to defray the funeral expenses of our de-
ceased brother, Capt. Benjamin Rogers, agreeably to their discre-
tion, and that they be authorized to draw on the treasurer of this
society for the amount of the same.
Voted, that the president of this society and Captains Nicholas
Johnson, and Benjamin Wyatt, be a committee to enquire into the
situation of the orphan children of Capt. William Orne, deceased,
and to pay the necessary expenses for their support for the present
year, and that they be authorized to draw on the treasurer of this
society for the amount thereof.
May 28, 1 81 2, voted, to excuse Capt. William Nichols his
dues, sixty cents, he having been unfortunately captured and lost
his vessel.
July 30, 1812, voted, to excuse Capt. David Stickney his dues,
he having been captured and lost his vessel.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 121
Voted, to excuse Capt. Michael Hodge his fines, he having
been absent through bodily indisposition.
Aug. 27, 1812, voted, to excuse Capt. Jeremy Young his dues,
he having been captured and lost his vessel.
Oct. 29, 1812, voted, that the committee who have the care of
the children of Capt. William Orne, deceased, be authorized to pay
the board of William Orne up to November the 2nd of this year.
Nov. 26, 1812, officers chosen:
Capt. Michael Hodge, President.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Vice President.
Capt. Sewell Toppan, Treasurer.
Capt. Isaac Stone, Secretary.
Committee to manage the society's estate :
Capt. Michael Hodge,
Capt. Jacob Stone,
Capt. Eleazer Johnson,
Capt. Edmund Kimball,
Capt. George Jenkins.
Committee on donations :
Capt. Isaac Adams,
Capt. Paul Simpson,
Capt. Isaac Stone,
Capt. Peter Le Breton, Jr.,
Capt. Stephen Holland.
Two applications for relief were received, one from the widow
of Capt. Enoch Pike, and the other from the widow of Capt. Abel
Lunt, both of which were committed to the committee on dona-
tions.
Voted, that the society do not dine together this year at the
expense of pay for the same from the society's funds.
Voted, that the society hold their periodical meetings the en-
suing year at the house of Mr. Prince Stetson.
Dec. 31, 1812, estate of the society:
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank $8000.00
13 shares in the Newbury port bank 1300.00
Note of Benjamin Rogers (deceased) 250.00
Cash in the hands of the treasurer 1478 1-2
$9564.78 1-3
There has been paid on Capt. Nicholas Johnson's note $290.63
There remains due Capt Nicholas Johnson $404.45
122
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Your committee further state that no dividends have been received
from the Massachusetts or Newburyport banks.
Newburyport, 29th December, 1812.
MICHAEL HODGE,
EDMUND KIMBALL,
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
JACOB STONE,
Committee.
Report of committee on donations :
To the widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe
$40
To the widow of Capt. Joseph Woodman
40
To the widow of Capt. Jonathan Moulton
40
To the widow of Capt. Philip Aubin
20
To the widow of Capt. Enoch Pike
20
To the widow of Capt. John Elliott
25
To the widow of Capt. William Nichols
20
To the widow of Capt. Nicholas Pierce
30
To Capt. Henry Friend
30
For assisting the orphans of Capt. William
Orne to be applied at the discretion of a
committee, a sum not exceeding fifty
dollars
50
$315
To Col. Edward Wigglesworth, no particular sum is affixed,
the committee thinking it most expedient that this case should be
presented for the consideration of the society without any decision
on their part.
Newburyport, 31st December, 1812.
ISAAC ADAMS,
ISAAC STONE,
PAUL SIMPSON,
STEPHEN HOLLAND,
Committee.
Report of the committee who have had the particular care of
the orphan children of Capt. William Orne, deceased.
Gentlemen : —
Your committee appointed to the care of the or-
phans of Capt. William Orne, deceased, beg leave to report that
they have attended to the trust reposed in them by the society,
that they have supplied them with such necessaries as they were
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 23
in absolute want of, and have drawn on the treasurer of this society
to the amount of forty-seven dollars and thirty-five cents for the
use of the two daughters. They have also drawn on the treasurer
for eighteen dollars for the board of William Orne, by a special
vote of the society, and there is now due for William's board four-
teen dollars.
MICHAEL HODGE,
NICHOLAS JOHNSON,
BENJAMIN WYATT,
Committee.
Newburyport, 31st Dec. 1812.
Voted, that the gentlemen committee who have had the care
of the orphans of William Orne, deceased, the last year, have the
thanks of this society for their care and attention to said orphans,
and that they be respectfully requested to continue the said charge
for the year ensuing.
Voted, that the above named committee be authorized to draw
on the treasurer of this society for the board of William Orne, as
also for the expenses for clothing, etc., previous to his last going
to sea.
Voted, that a committee of two be chosen to attend to the
particular situation of Col. Edward Wigglesworth, and afford him
such relief as they shall judge necessary.
Voted, that the sum of thirty dollars be appropriated for the
relief of Col. Edward Wigglesworth, to be left to a committee of
this society to apply the same according to their discretion, as soon
as he shall have made application to the town for relief and receive
such aid from the overseers of the poor as they may be willing to
afford him.
Voted, that the treasurer of this society be authorized to hire
the sum of money which may be necessary to meet the sum appro-
priated for the relief of widows and orphans of deceased members.
Voted, that the secretary of this society be requested to notify
the delinquent members of said society and request the payment of
their respective dues and fines agreeably to the existing bye-laws
of the society.
Captains Enoch Choate and David Patch were proposed by
Captain Thomas Morrison as candidates for admission into the
Marine society.
" >. -.■ »££.
124 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Jan. 28, 181 3, voted, to remit the fines and dues of Capt. Nich-
olas Pierce, deceased.
The committee appointed by the Marine Society to enquire
into the situation of Col. Edward Wigglesworth, beg leave to re-
port that they have attended to that duty, and that we have found
it expedient to allow him $1.25 per week until some cheaper board
can be obtained.
WILLIAM NOYES,
BENJAMIN WYATT,
Committee.
Voted, to accept above report and to allow Col. Wigglesworth
$1.25 per week until the month of May, if he remains in town, and
no longer.
March 25, 181 3, the committee appointed to attend to the sit-
uation and wants of Col. Edward Wigglesworth, report that they
have furnished him with clothing, etc., which with the money paid
for his board amounted to the sum of $33.10, which exceeds the
sum formerly voted $3.60.
Voted, to accept the report of the aforesaid committee, and
they were authorized to draw on the treasurer for the additional
sum of $3.60.
Voted, that the additional sum of fifteen dollars be allowed
Col. Wigglesworth to defray such further necessary relief which
he may require, which sum is to be placed in the hands of the for-
mer committee to be by them disposed of for his relief as they shall
judge necessary.
A letter was received and read, addressed to the president
and members of this society, on the subject of meeting and walking
in procession at the funerals of deceased brethren, requesting the
society to discontinue this practice, as their example in this respect
might have a tendency to prevent much unnecessary parade and
the saving of much trouble and expense to the surviving relatives.
The above letter was signed by
RICHARD PIKE,
BENJAMIN WYATT.
A vote on the above subject was taken and after many perti-
nent remarks by the members present, it was concluded that the
society could not yield to the above request consistently with the
existing bye-laws of the society, and the vote was accordingly
negative.
THB MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 135
April 29, 1813, voted, to excuse Capt. Edmund Kimball two
fines, say for January and February, he having been sick those two
months.
Capt. James Meyers attended the meeting of the society this
evening ; he has been absent with his family on a voyage to Eng-
land.
May 27, 1813, voted, that Capts. Israel Young, Michael Hodge
and Benjamin Wyatt, be a committee to examine the charter and
see if the members have power to alter the terms of meeting, and
that they report at the next monthly meeting, also to instruct said
committee (in case they find it necessary) to petition the legislature
for the above purpose.
June 24, 1813, voted, to excuse Capt. Isaac G. Pearson one-
third part of his fines amounting to three dollars and seventy-four
cents, he having been unable to attend many times through indis-
position, also to excuse him from attending the regular monthly
meetings in future, he having requested the same in consequence
of his advanced age and the distance he lives from our place of
meeting.
July 29, 181 3, voted, that the president be requested to notify
the several delinquent members of this society of their respective
fines and dues and request their attendance at the next monthly
meeting and settle the same, and if they should not attend, or re-
fuse to settle, that the president be authorized to adopt such meas-
ures to effect a settlement thereof as the law point out respecting
them.
Report of committee respecting an abridgment of monthly
meetings, your committee appointed to ascertain whether the so-
ciety could legally abridge their monthly meetings and hold them
quarterly, beg leave to report that they have attended to the busi-
ness and find that in their charter the society has no authority to
limit the monthly meetings, it expressly says "that the society
shall meet at Newburyport on the last Thursday of every month
for all other business."
Newburyport, 29 July, 1813.
M. HODGE,
ISRAEL YOUNG,
BENJAMIN WYATT,
Commitee.
126 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, to accept the report of the above committee.
Report of the committee respecting Col. Edward Wiggles-
worth.
The committee appointed by the Marine Society to supply
Col. Edward Wigglesworth, have attended to their duty and have
paid his board to the amount of fifteen dollars, the amount of the
second sum voted by the society for that purpose, also $1.16 for a
pair of draws.
WILLIAM NOYES,
BENJAMIN WYATT,
Committee.
Voted, that a committee be appointed to make further inquiry
into the situation of Col. Wigglesworth, and afford him such im-
mediate relief as they shall deem necessary and report his situation
at the next meeting of this society, also what permanent relief or
assistance they think he may require.
Capts. John Coombs, Edmund Kimball and Isaac Stone were
appointed for the above purpose.
Aug. 26, 181 3, voted, to excuse Capt. George Jenkins five
fines amounting to $1.25, he having satisfied the society that it was
not in his power to attend at the time for which he had been fined.
Voted, to excuse Capt. John O'Brien $1.90, he also having
been incapable of attending at the times he was charged with fines.
The committee appointed to make further inquiry into the sit -
uation of Col. Edward Wigglesworth, have attended to that duty
by a personal interview with him, and after taking into considera-
tion his past and present situation and prospects, have judged
proper to pay to Mr. Samuel Dole, the sum of four dollars to
be appropriated by him for the relief and support of Col. Wig-
glesworth the present month, which sum they think he will require
and would recommend to be paid by the society monthly for his
constant board, as a permanent support. They would also suggest
to the society the propriety of paying Mr. Dole the sum of four
dollars per month for the several months last past in which he may
have boarded Col. Wigglesworth without any assistance from the
society.
JOHN COOMBS,
EDMUND KIMBALL,
ISAAC STONE,
Committee.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 12*J
Voted, to accept the above report and to authorize the above
committee to draw on the treasurer of this society for the sum of
four dollars per month to be appropriated for the support of Col.
Wigglesworth till the next annual meeting of the society, and to
take his situation into further consideration at said period.
Voted, that Capt. William Russell be a committee to supply
the widow of Capt. Benjamin Rogers to an amount not exceeding
four dollars (at his discretion) and that he be authorized to draw
on the treasurer for the same.
Nov. 25, 1813, received a letter from Capt. Michael Hodge,
president of the society, declining serving any longer as president,
the following is a copy :
Newburyport, 25th November, 1813.
Gentlemen: — The annual meeting of our society this evening being
the constitutional period for a new election, of officers, I beg leave to ap-
prise you of a determination I have made, to be no longer considered as
a candidate for the office, with which I am now honored. Age and its
atttendant infirmities render it not only inconvenient to myself, but detri-
mental to the society, that I should any longer continue as its master and
forcibly reminds me that retirement from public duties is necessary to the
comfort and repose of the remainder of my life.
Strongly attached to an institution of which I have been so long a
member and over which I have several years presided, I trust my reasons
for this determination will not be considered improper. In withdrawing
from your suffrages, you will indulge me in returning my thanks for the
repeated honors you have bestowed upon me, and in expressing my ardent
wishes, that your benevolent efforts in which I will ever most cheerfully as-
sist, may continue tfo meet their due reward.
I am, gentlemen, your obedient servant,
M. HODGE.
Voted unanimously, that the thanks of this society be pre-
sented to Capt. Michael Hodge, their late president, for the many
services which he has rendered the society.
Officers chosen :
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, President.
Capt. John Coombs, Vice President.
Capt. Sewell Toppan, Treasurer.
Capt. Isaac Stone, Secretary.
Voted, that the- society hold their meetings at Mr. Ham-
mond's the ensuing year.
Voted, that this society will not dine together this year at the
expense of the society's funds.
ia8 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, to cause printed forms for notifying the members of
this society to attend the funerals of their deceased brethren, and
that the expenses of such notifications shall be defrayed from the
funds of the society.
Committee to manage the society's funds:
Capt. Michael Hodge,
Capt. Edmund Kimball,
Capt. Jacob Stone,
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Eleazer Johnson.
Committee to visit the widows and orphans :
Capt. Isaac Adams,
Capt. Isaac Stone,
Capt. Paul Simpson,
Capt. Peter Le Breton
Capt. Stephen Holland,
Received a written communication from the widow Elizabeth
Pike, giving thanks for past favors and soliciting future aid, as fol-
lows:
Newburyport, 23 November, 1813.
To the President and Members of the Marine Society:
Gentlemen: — Your petitioner presents her most sincere thanks to you
for your past favors, and regrets very much that she is obliged to trouble
you again, but in consequence of these oppressive times is necessitated
once more to solicit your further aid, should you think proper to bestow
something more it will be received with gratitude.
ELIZABETH PIKE.
Voted, to refer the above communication to the committee for
visiting the widows and orphans.
Voted, to admit Capt. Enoch Choate as a member of this so-
ciety.
Dec. 30, 1813, report of committee of managing the society's
funds :
16 shares in Massachusetts bank $8000
13 shares in Newburyport bank 1300
A note of Benjamin Rogers, deceased 250.00
$9550
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 29
There is due on the society's note to Capt.
Nicholas Johnson $121.18
Sewell Toppan's balance of account .45
$121.63
Newburyport, Dec. 30, 1813.
M. HODGE,
E. KIMBALL,
GEORGE JENKINS,
JACOB STONE,
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
Committee.
Report of the committee appointed to enquire into the situa-
tion of widows and orphans of deceased members of the Marine
Society, is that in order to make report of all who appear to be en-
titled to its assistance, and to propose such relief as in each case
they may think most suitable, have attended to that service and
ask leave to report, that in consideration of the increased number
of cases claiming aid from the society, and the prospect of a still
further increase of such cases as well as the decrease of our means
of affording relief by the failure of that part of our revenue which
accrues from the reception of new members, they have thought ex-
pedient to recommend a reduction of the sums usually allowed to
individuals, that the whole amount may not exceed the sum dis-
tributed the last year, conformably to which they recommend that
three hundred and sixty-seven dollars be appropriated and applied
as follows.
That a sum not exceeding thirty dollars be granted for the re-
lief of the orphans of Capt. William Orne, to be applied by a com-
mittee to be chosen for that purpose according to their discretion,
say $30.
That the sum of fifty-two dollars, or one dollar per week be
granted for the relief of Col. Wiggles worth, to be in the control of
a committee chosen for that purpose, which committee they
recommend to be instructed to furnish him in addition to the above
with such articles of clothing as they may deem expedient.
To the widow of Capt. St. Barbe $35
To the widow of Capt. Jonathan Moulton 35
To the widow of Capt. Abel Lunt 35
To the widow of Capt. Samuel Chase 35
To the widow of Capt. Joseph Woodman 20
To the widow of Capt. Nicholas Pierce 20
9-a
IJO RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
To the widow of Capt. Benaiah Titcomb 20
To the widow of Capt. John Elliot 10
To the widow of Capt. William Nichols 10
To the widow of Capt. Friend Dole 10
Youngest son of Capt. Ebenezer Choate (deceased) 20
Capt. Henry Friend 35
Brought forward 82
$367
The above report was read and accepted with the following
amendments, viz : the cases of Mrs. Dole and Mrs. Titcomb to be
further investigated by the above committee, and that the widow of
Capt. Philip Aubin and widow of Capt. Enoch Pike, be presented
with twenty dollars each, and that the sum of five dollars be deduct-
ed from each of the following persons, viz:
Mrs. St. Barbe $5
Mrs. Moulton 5
Mrs. Lunt 5
Mrs. Chase 5
$20
Newburyport, Dec. 20, 1813.
ISAAC ADAMS,
ISAAC STONE,
STEPHEN HOLLAND,
PAUL SIMPSON,
Committee.
Voted, that the treasurer of this society be authorized to hire
money for the purposes afore mentioned, at a rate not exceeding 6
per cent.
Voted, Capt. William Russell be a committee to attend to the
situation and wants of Col. Edward Wigglesworth, and afford him
such assistance and relief as he may think proper, the present year,
to an amount not exceeding fifty-two dollars.
-Voted, that the treasurer of this society be authorized to take
up the debts which the society owes, if it can be done at 4 1-2 per
cent.
Jan. 27, 1814, voted, that a sum not exceeding twenty dollars
be drawn from the funds of this society for the purpose of clothing
Col. Edward Wigglesworth, and that Capt. Jacob Stone be a com-
mittee for that purpose.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 131
Feb. 24, 1814, Capt. Israel Young offered an excuse for non-
attendance at the funeral of our deceased brother, Capt. Joseph
Seveir, saying he had an engagement on that day at the insurance
office, which excuse the society deemed insufficient, he however de-
clined paying the fine.
March 31, 1814, voted, to excuse Capt. John Dole his fines and
dues amounting to $2.65 up to the present time, on account of pe-
culiar misfortunes.
On account of a representation of the committee who were
further to investigate the cases of the widows Dole and Titcomb,
voted, that the widow of Benaiah Titcomb be presented with the
sum of thirty dollars and the widow of Friend Dole with ten
dollars.
June 30, 1814, voted, to excuse Capt. David Stickney one fine
of fifty cents, he having been sick and incapable of meeting at the
funeral of Capt. William Coombs.
July 28, 1814, voted, to excuse Capt. Abraham Wheelwright
for not attending the funerals of Captains Chase and Seveir (fifty
cents each) he being absent from town at both times.
Voted, to excuse Capt. Le Breton one fine of fifty cents for
not attending the funeral of Capt. Samuel Chase, being absent
from town.
Voted, to excuse Capt. Moses Goodrich one fine of fifty cents
for not attending the funeral of Capt. Joseph Seveir, being out of
town.
Voted, to excuse Capt. Thomas Morrison one fine of fifty
cents for not attending the funeral of Capt. Samuel Chase, he then
being sick.
Voted, to excuse Capt. Michael Hodge one fine of fifty cents
for not attending the funeral of Capt. Joseph Tyler, he being sick.
And whereas difficulties and disagreeables still exist between
the members of this society and those of the Masonic Societies in
this town, respecting the right of precedence at funeral proces-
sions, in cases where the deceased was a member of both societies,
and this society desirous of preserving that order and decorum
which the solemnty of such occasions require, while paying the last
respect to a departed brother.
Therefore voted, to appoint a committee of two to confer with
the lodges in this town as to the right of precedure at funeral pro-
cessions where the deceased has been a member of Marine and
Masonic societies at the next meeting of this society.
13* RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Isaac Stone and Jacob Stone were accordingly chosen for the
above purpose.
Aug. 25, 1814, the committee appointed at the last meeting of
this society to confer with the Masonic societies in this town as to
the right of precedence at funerals where the deceased had been a
member of the Marine and Masonic societies, have attended the
duty assigned them and ask leave to report.
That the committee appointed by St. Peter's Lodge declared
that as the society of Masons is more ancient than any other in
existence, they cannot yield the right of precedure at the funeral
of a deceased brother (if a member of their lodge) to any society
on earth.
St. Mark's Lodge have not had a meeting since ours, but by
inquiry with some individuals, we presume that they will be gov-
erned by the same principle which St. Peter's Lodge declared
should govern them.
ISAAC STONE,
JACOB STONE,
Committee.
Sept. 29, 1814, voted, to excuse Capt. Joseph Brown his dues
amounting to $4.30 during his long absence, he having been un-
fortunately captured by the Danes and lost his vessel.
Whereas the pressure of the times has a peculiar hard bear-
ing on many of our brethren at this season of war and severe dis-
tress, and whereas it is very inconvenient for many of our mem-
bers to attend our regular stated monthly meetings agreeably to
our present charter and bye-laws.
Voted, that this society petition the legislature of this com-
monwealth at their next session, for permission to meet quarterly
(instead of monthly) or to make such alterations as to the time of
our periodical meetings as the society shall deem meet and expe-
dient.
Voted, to choose a committee of three of our number to draft
and present to the legislature at their approaching session, the
petition above stated.
The President of this society, Capt. Michael Hodge, Capt.
Isaac Stone, were chosen for the above purpose.
Voted, to cause inserted in the newspaper of tomorrow an
invitation to all our brethren of this society to volunteer their
services on Saturday next in assisting to complete the Breast
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 33
Works now throwing up on Plumb Island, or on the turnpike
leading to said island, for the safety and defense of this town.
Note. — The above invitation was given and very generally
complied with.
Oct. 27, 1814, voted, to excuse Capt. William Russell one fine
of 50 cents for non-attendance at the funeral of Capt. Joseph
Seveir, Capt. Russell being then sick, also to excuse him one fine
of 25 cents in the month of August for not attending the regular
meeting of the society, he then being past the age of 70 years.
Voted, to remit the fines and dues of the deceased members
of this society, viz :
Capt. Joseph Seveir $ .55
Capt. Peter Le Breton .20
Capt. William Coombs 2.20
Capt. Joseph Tyler 1.55
$4-50
Voted, that the secretary of this society be requested to pro-
cure a copy of the act passed on the 17th of this month by the
legislature of this commonwealth (at the request of this society)
for permission to regulate their meetings in such a way and man-
ner as they shall deem meet and expedient.
The above vote was reconsidered upon the suggestion that
the act would be printed and forwarded as soon as it would be
wanted.
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS.
In the Year of Our Lord 1814.
AN ACT
In addition to the Act establishing a Marine Society at Newburyport.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General
Court assembled and by authority of the same:
That from and after the passing of this Act, the Marine Society at
Newburyport may regulate and determine on their times of meeting, any-
thing in the Act establishing that Society, passed on the eleventh day of
October, one thousand seven hundred and seventy-seven, or in their by-
laws as at present existing, to the contrary notwithstanding.
In the House of Representatives, October 17th, 1814.
This bill, having had three several readings, passed to be enacted.
TIMOTHY BIGELOW, Speaker.
9-b
134 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
In Senate, October 18th, 1814.
This bill, having had two several readings, passed to be enacted.
JOHN PHILLIPS, President.
October i8th, 1814.
Approved.
CALEB STRONG.
A true copy. Attest:
EDWARD D. BANGS,
Secretary of the Commonwealth
Nov. 24, 1814, officers chosen :
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, President.
Oapt. Abraham Wheelwright, Vice President.
Capt. Sewell Toppan, Treasurer.
Capt. Isaac Stone, Secretary.
Committee for managing the society's funds :
Capt. Michael Hodge,
Capt. Peter Le Breton,
Capt. Edmund Kimball,
Capt. Jacob Stone,
Capt. Paul Simpson.
Committee to visit the widows and orphans :
Capt. David Stickney,
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Benjamin Wyatt,
Capt. Thomas Follansbee,
Capt. Thomas Morrison.
Voted, that this society will in future meet quarterly instead
of monthly, and that the times of our regular meetings shall be in
the months of November and February at 7 o'clock p. m., and in
the months of May and August at 6 o'clock p. m., on the last
Thursday in each of the aforesaid months.
Voted, that the secretary of this society be requested to notify
the members who are absent, of the preceding vote.
Voted, to hold our meetings the ensuing year at the house of
Mr. Stephen Hammond.
Voted, that this society will not dine together this year at the
expense of the society's funds.
Voted, to adjourn the present meeting to Thursday the eighth
day of December next, then to meet at this place, Mr. Hammond's
at 6 o'clock p. m.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 35
Dec. 8, 1814, report of the Relief Committee:
To the widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe $30
To the widow of Capt. Abel Lunt 20
To the widow of Capt. Jonathan Moulton 40
To the widow of Capt. Joseph Woodman 20
To the widow of Capt. Nicholas Pierce 30
To the widow of Capt. Benaiah Titcomb 20
To the widow of Capt. William Nichols 10
To the widow of Capt. Philip Aubin 20
To the widow of Capt. Enoch Pike 20
To the widow of Capt. Joseph Tyler 20
To Capt. Henry Friend 20
To youngest son of Capt. Ebenezer Choate (deceased) 8
$258
They further recommend that the situation of the following
persons be taken into consideration by the society, viz :
To the widow of Capt. Friend Dole, and the widow of Capt.
John Elliot, to whom the society voted the sum of twenty dollars
each as temporary relief.
DAVID STICKNEY,
BENJAMIN WYATT,
GEORGE JENKINS,
THOMAS FOLLANSBEE,
THOMAS MORRISON,
Committee.
May 25, 181 5, voted, that the sum of thirteen dollars be appro-
priated to the relief of the widow Mary St. Barbe, she having re-
quested further aid from the society, and that the treasurer be
authorized to pay the same.
A petition was presented the society from Charles Rogers,
requesting a recommendation to His Excellency the Governor, to
enable him to obtain an appointment as a pilot for the river Mer-
rimack, but the rules of the society not being complied with in his
having a certificate from the merchants of Newburyport, the pe-
tition was not acted on.
Aug. 31, 181 5, Mr. Charles Rogers having presented to the
society a certificate from a number of the merchants of the town
of Newburyport, attesting his qualifications as a pilot, his petition
was taken into consideration and voted unanimously, that Mr.
Charles Rogers be recommended to His Excellency the Governor,
I36 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
as a suitable person for a pilot into and out of the river Merri-
mack.
Nov. 30, 181 5, officers chosen:
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, President.
Gapt. Abraham Wheelwright, Vice President.
Capt. Jacob Stone, Treasurer.
Capt. Peter Le Breton, Secretary.
Voted, that the thanks of the society be presented to Capt.
Isaac Stone for his services as secretary, he having resigned.
Voted, that the thanks of the society be presented to Capt.
Sewell Toppan for his services as treasurer, he having resigned.
Committee for managing the society's funds:
Capt. Michael Hodge,
Capt. Edmund Kimball,
Capt. Paul Simpson,
Capt. Benjamin Wyatt,
Capt. Isaac Adams.
Committee to visit the widows and orphans :
Capt. David Stickney,
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Eleazer Johnson,
Capt. Michael Titcomb,
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright.
Voted, that Capt. Jacob Stone be appointed to attend to the
wants and necessities of Col. Edward Wigglesworth, and supply
him with such clothing as may be necessary, to an amount not ex-
ceeding twenty dollars, and pay his board at the rate of one dollar
per week, and that he be authorized to draw on the treasurer for
the amount.
Voted, that the secretary be requested to call in person or by
letter on all delinquent members for what sums they may be in-
debted to the society ,and in case of non-payment at the expiration
of six months, they shall be disfranchised.
Voted, that this society will meet monthly as regulated by the
laws of the society, previous to the act passed by the legislature,
and each member be informed of the same by the secretary.
A letter was received from the widow Elizabeth Pike, request-
ing assistance from the society which was read and referred to the
committee for visiting widows and orphans.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NKWBURYPORT 1 37
Dec. 14, 1815, report of the Relief committee:
To the widow of Capt. Jonathan Moulton $40
To the widow of Capt. Joseph Tyler 40
To the widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe 30
To the widow of Capt. Benaiah Titcomb 30
To the widow of Capt. Benjamin Rogers 20
To the widow of Capt. Abel Lunt 15
To the widow of Capt. Joseph Woodman 15
To the widow of Capt. Philip Aubin 15
To the widow of Capt. Enoch Pike 15
To Capt. Henry Friend 10
DAVID STICKNEY,
GEORGE JENKINS,
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
MICHAEL TITCOMB,
ABRAHAM WHEELWRIGHT,
$230
Committee.
Voted, to accept the report of the visiting committee, except
the sum of twenty dollars for the widow of Capt. Benjamin Rog-
ers, which is to be placed in the hands of Capt. Michael Hodge for
her use and to be applied in such a manner as he may think proper.
Voted, that the treasurer be authorized and empowered to sue
out the mortgage on the estate of the late Capt. Benjamin Rogers.
Voted, that the committee for managing the society's funds
be requested to make such repairs on the house of the late Capt.
Benjamin Rogers as they may think expedient and make the best
improvements of the same.
Dec. 28, 181 5, report of the committee for managing the so-
ciety's funds :
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank $8000.00
18 shares in the Newburyport bank 1080.00
Note of Capt. Benjamin Rogers, deceased 250.00
Cash in the hands of the treasurer 31.33
Newburyport, Dec. 28, 1815.
$9361.33
M. HODGE,
BENJAMIN WYATT,
PAUL SIMPSON,
Committee.
138 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
March 28, 1816, voted, that a committee be chosen to co-
operate with the committee of the Boston Marine Society on the
subject of their letter addressed to this society on the propriety of
petitioning Congress for a new survey of our coast.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Capt. Michael Hodge and Capt.
Abraham Wheelwright, were chosen.
A petition was received from the widow of Capt. Joseph Ty-
ler requesting some relief from the society.
Voted, that the sum of fifteen dollars be appropriated to the
relief of the widow of Capt. Joseph Tyler.
May 30, 1816, voted, that a further time of three months be
given to such members of this society as have not paid their fines
and dues according to a vote of the society passed at the annual
meeting in November last.
June 27, 1816, voted, to excuse Capt. Joseph Noyes his dues,
he being too infirm to meet with the society and unable to pay,
and that he shall likewise be exonerated from any further demands
for dues to the society.
Voted, that the vacancy in the committee for managing the
society's funds, by the death of Capt. Michael Hodge, be filled.
Capt. Hodge died June 24, 1816.
Voted, that Capt. Abraham Wheelwright be on the before
mentioned committee.
Aug. 29, 181 6, voted, that Capt. Israel Young be dismissed
from this society according to his request received this evening,
and the secretary notify him thereof.
Voted, that Capt. Nathaniel Nowell, Capt. Ebenezer Stocker,
Capt. Richard Toppan, and Capt. William Thomas, be disfran-
chised from being members of this society, for non-compliance
with a vote passed at the annual meeting in November last for the
recovery of fines and dues from delinquent members, of which
they were notified by the secretary.
Sept. 26, 1816, voted, that Capt. William Thomas be re-ad-
mitted to this society on a representation from Capt. Sewell Top-
pan, that he was authorized to pay Capt. Thomas' dues by him im-
mediately on his receiving a notification from the secretary, but
was omitted by Capt. Toppan being absent from the society.
Oct. 31, 1816, $18.65 collected in fines this evening, likewise
$240 received from Mr. Adams for dividends at the Massachusetts
bank were paid the treasurer.
THB MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 139
Capt. William Bartlett was proposed as a candidate for ad-
mission into the society, by Capt. John March.
Gapt. Samuel Nichols and Capt. John I. Ross were proposed
for admission into the society.
Nov. 28, 1816, officers chosen :
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, President.
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, Vice President.
Capt. Jacob Stone, Treasurer.
Capt. Peter Le Breton, Secretary.
Committee to manage the society's funds:
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright,
Capt. Isaac Adams,
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Eleazer Johnson,
Capt. John N. Gushing.
Committee to visit the widows and orphans:
Capt. John March,
Capt. Michael Titcomb,
Capt. David Stickney,
Capt. Charles Hodge.
Voted, that Capts. William Bartlett, Samuel Nichols, and
John I. Ross be admitted members of this society.
Voted, that Capt. William H. Mitchell be admitted a member
of this society, his name not being proposed at the last meeting
was in consequence of his being at sea.
Voted, that the sum for admittance into this society be thirty-
five dollars.
Dec. 26, 1816, report of the committee on society's funds:
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank $8000.00
23 shares in the Newburyport bank 1380.00
House and land lately belonging to B. Rogers, deceased 250.00
Cash in hands of treasurer 400.15
$10,030.15
Report of committee for visiting the widows and orphans :
Capt. Henry Friend $10
Widow of Capt. Enoch Pike 15
Widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe 16
Widow of Capt. Benaiah Titcomb 10
Widow of Capt. Jonathan Moulton 30
ifa
Widow of Capt. Joseph H- Wml a»
Widow of Capt Abel Lawt 15
Widow of Capt. John ESott «s
Widow of Capt- Bi nj 1— ■ Rogers 15
Chphaos of Nicholas Pierce m
Capt. Nathamd Fletcher 30
Voted, that die sum of four dollars per month be allowed to
pay the board of CoL Edward Wiggksworth, and die sum of
twenty dollars to find him such necessities as be may lequiie and
the treasurer authorized to attend to and pay the same.
Jan. 30, 1817, Capt. George Campbell, Capt. WHEam Graves,
and Capt. Charles Davenport, were proposed for admission into
die society.
Feb. 27, 1817, voted, that the treasurer be authorized to hire
a sum of money, sufficient with what there is in his hands, to pur-
chase six shares in die Xewburyport bank.
March 27, 1817, voted, that die treasurer be authorized to pay
Capt. Benjamin Wyatt, ten dollars.
Voted, that Capt. E. Johnson and the secretary, call on Capt
Nathaniel Fletcher and pay his fifteen dollars, if his situation re-
quires it.
Voted, that this society will in future meet quarterly, and the
time of meeting shall be in the months of November and Febru-
ary at 7 o'clock p. m., on the last Thursday in each month.
May 29, 1817, voted, that the treasurer be authorized to pay
Capt Michael Thcomb the sum of twenty-five dollars.
Nov. 27, 1817, officers chosen:
Capt. Nicholas Johnson. President.
Capt Abraham Wheelwright, Vice President.
Capt Jacob Stone, Treasurer.
Capt Peter Le Breton, Secretary.
Committee to manage the society's estate:
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright,
Capt. John March,
Capt Eleazer Johnson,
Capt Edmund Kimball,
Capt John N. Cashing.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT I4I
Voted, that Capt. John O'Brien's request, to be dismissed
from this society be complied with and the secretary notify him
thereof.
Voted, that thirty-five dollars be the sum to be paid for ad-
mittance.
Voted, that Capts. George Campbell, William Graves, and
Charles Davenport, be admitted members of this society.
Voted, to adjourn this meeting to Thursday the nth of De-
cember next, and then to meet at Mr. Gilman's Hotel.
Dec. 11, 1817, report of committee on society's estate:
16 shares in Massachusetts bank $8000.00
29 shares in Newburyport bank 1740.00
Daniel Dennis' and Moody Pearson's note 250.00
Cash in treasurer's hands 432.32
$10,422.32
ABRAHAM WHEELWRIGHT,
JOHN MARCH,
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
JOHN N. CUSHING,
Committee.
Report of committee for visiting the widows and orphans:
To the widow of Capt. Jonathan Moulton $25
To the widow of Capt. Enoch Pike 15
To' the widow of Capt. Benaiah Titcomb 15
To the widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe 15
To the widow of Capt. Abel Lunt 15
To the widow of Capt. Green Johnson 25
To the widow of Capt. Joseph Woodman 10
To the orphans of Capt. Nicholas Pierce 10
Capt. Michael Titcomb 35
JOHN MARCH,
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
GEORGE JENKINS,
DAVID STICKNEY,
$165
Committee.
Voted, that the committee for visiting the widows and or-
phans, call on Capt. Caleb Lufkin, and if his situation requires it,
pay him a sum not exceeding twenty dollars.
142 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, that Col. Edward Wigglesworth be allowed one dollar
per week to pay his board, and twenty dollars for clothes, and the
treasurer be authorized to attend his wants and pay the money as
he may judge proper.
May 28, 1818, voted, to excuse Capt. Isaac Adams, one dollar
and twenty-five cents, for fines at Captains March and Russell's
funerals, he being out of town.
Voted, that the sum of twenty-five dollars be payed by the
treasurer to Capt. Michael Titcomb.
Voted, that the sum of twenty dollars be payed the widow of
Capt. Abel Lunt, and the sum of ten dollars to the widow of Capt.
Joseph Woodman.
Voted, that Capt. Joseph Patch be excused paying his dues
and fines in consequence of his having the misfortune to lose his
vessel.
Voted, Capt. William Williams was proposed as a member of
this society.
Aug. 27, 1818, Capt. John Wills, Capt. Charles Cook were
proposed by the secretary as candidates for admission into this so-
ciety.
Nov. 26, 1818, officers elected:
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, President.
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, Vice President.
Capt. Jacob Stone, Treasurer.
Capt. Peter Le Breton, Secretary.
Committee to manage the society's funds :
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright,
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Eleazer Johnson,
Capt. Edmund Kimball,
Oapt. John N. Cushing.
Committee to visit the widows and orphans:
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Eleazer Johnson,
Capt. Edmund Kimball,
Capt. Isaac Adams,
Capt. David Stickney.
Voted, that Capt. William Williams, Capt. John Wills, and
Capt. Charles Cook be admitted members of this society.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 43
Voted, that Capt. Charles Davenport shall not be considered
a member of this society, he not having conformed to the rules of
admission.
Voted, that the sum for admission into this society be thirty-
five dollars for each member.
Voted, to adjourn this meeting till the ioth of December, and
then to meet at Mr. Gilman's Hotel, where they are to be held the
year ensuing.
Dec. 10, 1 818, report of committee for managing the society's
funds :
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank $8000.00
38 shares in the Newburyport bank 2280.00
Daniel Dennis' note 250.00
Balance in treasurer's hands 319-39
$10,849.39
Report of committee for visiting the widows and orphans
To Capt. Henry Friend $48
To Capt Michael Titcomb 48
To the widow of Green Johnson 30
To the widow of Wyatt St. Barbe 20
To the widow of Joseph H. Woodman 20
To the widow of Jonathan Moulton 30
To the widow of Abel Lunt 20
To the widow of Jonathan Titcomb 25
To the widow of David Lufkin 20
To the widow of Benjamin Rogers 20
Orphans of Capt. Nicholas Pierce 4
Orphans of Capt. Joseph Tyler 10
GEORGE JENKINS,
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
ISAAC ADAMS,
DAVID STICKNEY,
EDMUND KIMBALL,
$3iS
Committee.
Feb. 25, 1819, Capt. Richard S. Pickett, Capt. David Haskett
and Capt. Alexander Livingston, were proposed for membership.
Voted, that the sum of $15 be paid to the committee on do-
nations for the use of the widow of Capt. Jonathan Titcomb.
144 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, that the sum of $30 be paid by the treasurer to the
committee on donations for the use of the widow of Capt. Eben-
ezer Hoyt.
Voted, that the sum of $15 be paid by the treasurer to the
committee on donations for the use of the children of Capt. Moses
Brown, and the same sum to be paid for their use quarterly.
May 27, 1819, Capt. Abel Johnson was proposed by the secre-
tary as a candidate for admission into the society.
Nov. 25, 1819, officers elected :
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, President.
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, Vice President.
Capt. Jacob Stone, Treasurer.
Capt. Peter L,e Breton, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright,
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Eleazer Johnson,
Capt. Edmund Kimball,
Capt. John N. Gushing.
Relief committee :
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. David Stickney,
Capt. Isaac Adams,
Capt. Eleazer Johnson,
Capt. Stephen Holland.
Voted unanimously, that Capt. Abel Johnson, Capt. Alexan-
der Livingston, Capt. Richard Picket and Capt. David Haskell be
admitted members of this society.
Voted, that the sum for admittance into this society for the
year ensuing be thirty-five dollars.
Dec. 9, 1819, report of committee for managing the society's
funds :
16 shares in Massachusetts bank $8000.00
43 shares in Newburyport bank 2580.00
Daniel Dennis' and Moody Pearson's note 250.00
Cash in the hands of the treasurer 439-29
$11,269.29
ABRAHAM WHEELWRIGHT,
GEORGE JENKINS,
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
EDMUND KIMBALL,
Committee.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NHWBURYPORT 1 45
Report of committee for visiting the widows and orphans :
Capt. Henry Friend $ 7 per month
Capt. Michael Titcomb 48 per year
Capt. Michael Titcomb 15 to buy a great coat.
To the widow Green Johnson 30
To the widow Jonathan Moulton 30
To the widow Ebenezer Hoyt 30
To the widow Wyatt St. Barbe 25
To the widow Benaiah Titcomb 20
To the widow Joseph Woodman 20
To the widow Abel Lunt 20
To the widow Benjamin Rogers 20
Orphans of Joseph Tyler 15
Orphans of Moses Brown 15 per quarter
Orphans of Nicholas Pierce 5 per quarter
GEORGE JENKINS,
STEPHEN HOLLAND,
DAVID STICKNEY,
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
Committee.
Voted, that the committee on donations be authorized to draw
on the treasurer, the amount of $278, and likewise the sum of $53
quarterly and pay the same in accordance with their report.
Voted, that Capt. William Thomas be disfranchised for not
conforming to the laws of the society.
Voted, that Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Capt. Abraham Wheel-
wright, and Capt. Jacob Stone, be a committee to call on such
members of this society as they may have heard reports respecting
their improper conduct, and acquaint them of it, and if they do
not reform they will be disfranchised.
Feb. 24, 1820, voted, that the members of this society approve
of the manner in which their committee have performed the duty
assigned them in advising with those members whose conduct has
been reprehensible, and likewise that they approve of their advanc-
ing the sum of fifteen dollars to Capt. John Dole, and that they
may advance him any further sum they may think proper, not ex-
ceeding fifty dollars.
Voted, that the committee of donations be authorized to pay
to the daughter of the late Capt. Henry Friend, thirty dollars, in
lieu of the seven dollars per month allowed her father.
May 25, 1820, voted, that the committee for managing the
society's funds are authorized to deposit what money the treasurer
10-a
I46 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
has or may have on hand in the savings bank or any other they
may think proper.
Aug. 31, 1820, voted, seven dollars be loaned to Capt. James
Francis by the society for the relief of his daughter, and that the
treasurer pay the money to the Rev. James Morse, taking his re-
ceipt for the same, and request Mr. Morse to apply it for her use
as he judges proper.
Nov. 30, 1820, officers elected :
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, President.
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, Vice President.
Capt. Jacob Stone, Treasurer.
Capt. Peter Le Breton, Secretary.
Finance committee:
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright,
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Eleazer Johnson,
Capt. John N. Cushing,
Capt. Paul Simpson.
Relief committee :
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Isaac Adams,
Capt. Eleazer Johnson,
Capt. Joseph Patch,
Capt. Daniel Stone.
Voted unanimously, that Capt. Nathaniel Jackson and Capt.
John H. Titcomb be admitted members of this society.
Voted, that the sum for admittance be $35 for the year en-
suing.
Dec. 14, 1820, report of committee for managing the society's
funds :
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank $8000.00
43 shares in the Newburyport bank 2580.00
Daniel Dennis' and Moody Pearson's note 250.00
Deposit in Savings Bank of Newburyport 450.00
In treasurer's hands 242.19 1-2
$11,522.19 1-2
ABRAHAM WHEELWRIGHT,
GEORGE JENKINS,
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
JOHN N. CUSHING,
PAUL SIMPSON, Committee.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NBWBURYPORT 1 47
Report of the committee for visiting the widows and orphans :
Capt. Michael Titcomb $ 5 per mo. paid quarterly.
To the widow Green Johnson 25
To the widow Wyatt St. Barbe 15
To the widow Benaiah Titcomb 20
To the widow Joseph H. Woodman 15
To the widow Jonathan Moulton 20
To the widow Abel Lunt 15
To the widow Jonathan Titcomb 20
To the widow Benjamin Rogers 15
To the widow Ebenezer Hoyt 25
To the widow John March 20
Two orphans of Moses Brown 5 each per quarter
Orphans of Nicholas Pierce 5 each per quarter
$310
GEORGE JENKINS,
ISAAC ADAMS,
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
JOSEPH PATCH,
DANIEL STONE,
Committee.
Voted, that Capt. Eleazer Johnson be authorized to call on
the treasurer for the sum of $20, to be delivered to Rev. J. Morse
for the use of the child of Capt. James Francis.
Voted, that Capt. James Francis be disfranchised from this
society for improper conduct.
Note — Capt. James Francis died Dec. 16, 1820, two days after
being expelled from the society.
Feb. 22, 1821, voted, that the committee for visiting the wid-
ows and orphans be authorized to pay the funeral charges of Capt.
Michael Titcomb, and to draw on the treasurer for the amount.
Voted, that the committee on donations pay the widow of
Capt. Thomas Follansbee, twenty dollars.
May 31, 1821, voted, that the committee on donations pay to
the widow of Capt. Michael Titcomb, twenty dollars.
Nov. 29, 1821, officers elected:
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, President.
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, Vice President.
Capt. Jacob Stone, Treasurer.
Capt. Peter Le Breton, Secretary.
I48 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Finance committee :
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright,
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Eleazer Johnson,
Capt. John N. Gushing,
Capt. Paul Simpson.
Relief committee :
Gapt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Isaac Adams,
Capt. Eleazer Johnson,
Capt. Daniel Stone,
Capt. Joseph Patch.
Voted, that Capt. Dennis Condry be admitted a member of
this society.
Voted, that the sum for admittance into this society for the
ensuing year be thirty-five dollars.
Voted, that Capt. Caleb Lufkin be disfranchised from this so-
ciety.
Voted, Capts. Isaac Adams, Eleazer Johnson and Paul Simp-
son, be a committee to wait on those members of this society who
are irregular in their conduct.
Dec. 13, 1821, report of committee for managing the society's
funds :
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank $4000.00
100 shares in the Newburyport bank 6000.00
Deposit in Savings bank, Newburyport 707.50
Cash in hands of treasurer 1026.97
$11,734.47
ABRAHAM WHEELWRIGHT,
GEORGE JENKINS,
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
JOHN N. CUSHING,
PAUL SIMPSON,
Report of the committee on donations :
Widow of John Dole $30
Widow of Thomas Follansbee 25
Widow of Jonathan Moulton 25
Widow of Michael Titcomb 20
Committee.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 149
Widow of Ebenezer Hoyt 20
Widow of Jonathan Titcomb 20
Widow of Joseph H. Woodman 20
Widow of Green Johnson 20
Widow of Benaiah Titcomb 20
Widow of Wyatt St. Barbe 18
Widow of Abel Lunt 15
Widow of Benjamin Rogers 15
Three orphans of Moses Brown 5 each per quarter.
Orphans of Nicholas Pierce 5 per quarter.
$328
GEORGE JENKINS,
DANIEL STONE,
JOSEPH PATCH,
Committee.
Aug. 29, 1822, voted, that Enoch Lunt, Jr., of Newbury,
be recommended by the president of this society to the Governor
and Council, as a person capable of performing the office of pilot
for the river Merrimack.
Voted, that the committee appointed to examine into the ir-
regular conduct of the members of this society, enquire particu-
larly into that of Capt. William Mitchell, and make their report at
the next meeting.
Nov. 28, 1822, officers elected :
Capt. Nicholas Johnson, President.
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, Vice President.
Oapt. Jacob Stone, Treasurer.
Capt. Peter Le Breton, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright,
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Eleazer Johnson,
Capt. John N. Cushing,
Capt. Paul Simpson.
Relief committee :
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Isaac Adams,
Capt. Eleazer Johnson,
Capt. Charles Cook,
Capt. Isaac Stone.
Admission fee, $35.
10-b
i5o
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, that Capt. William H. Mitchell be disfranchised from
this society.
Report of the finance committee :
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank $4000.00
100 shares in the Newburyport bank 6000.00
Deposit in the Savings bank, Newburyport 776.76
Note of Capt. William Davis, agent for the Fishing
Co., dated April 6, 1822, at 5 per cent, interest 850.00
Amount in the hands of treasurer 39182
$12,018.58
ABRAHAM WHEELWRIGHT,
GEORGE JENKINS,
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
Committee.
Report of relief committee :
Widow of Green Johnson
Widow of Wyatt St. Barbe
Widow of Benaiah Titcomb
Widow of Joseph H. Woodman
Widow of Jonathan Moulton
Widow of Abel Lunt
Widow of Jonathan Titcomb
Widow of Benaiah Rogers
Widow of Eben Hoyt
Widow of Michael Titcomb
Widow of Thomas Follansbee
Widow of John Dole
Widow of Philip Aubin
Three orphans of Moses Brown
One orphan of Nicholas Pierce
$20
18
20
20
18
IS
15
IS
20
20
30
30
20
5 each per quarter
5 per quarter.
$341
GEORGE JENKINS,
ISAAC ADAMS,
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
ISAAC STONE,
CHARLES COOK,
Committee.
Feb. 27, 1823, voted, that Capt. Charles Cook be authorized
to purchase one cord of wood for the orphans of Capt. Joseph Ty-
ler, draw on the treasurer for the amount, and at the same time
inform them that they are to expect no further assistance from this
society.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 151
Voted, that the entrance money paid by Capt. William Mitch-
ell to this society, be refunded to his wife, and that Capt. Eleazer
Johnson be authorized to draw on the treasurer for the amount
and pay it over to her.
May 29, 1823, voted, to approve of the conduct of the finance
committee in loaning money to the Fishing Co. of Newburyport,
though such proceedings be contrary to the regulations of this
society.
Nov. 27, 1823, officers chosen :
Capt. Nicholas 'Johnson, President.
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, Vice President.
Capt. Jacob Stone, Treasurer.
Capt. Peter Le Breton, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright,
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Eleazer Johnson,
Capt. Paul Simpson,
Capt. Charles Cook.
Relief committee :
Capt. Stephen Holland,
Capt. Isaac Stone,
Capt. John Wills, ,
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Joseph Patch.
Admission fee, $35.
Dec. 11, 1823, report of finance committee:
16 shares in Massachusetts bank $4000.00
100 shares in Newburyport bank 6000.00
Note of Capt. William Davis, dated April 6, 1822,
at 5 1-2 per cent, interest 850.00
Note of Capt. William Davis, dated April 21, 1823,
at 5 1-2 per cent, interest 1174.00
Amount in the hands of the treasurer 31344
$12,337.44
CHARLES COOK,
ABRAHAM WHEELWRIGHT,
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
PAUL SIMPSON,
Committee.
152 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Report of relief committee:
Three orphans of Capt. Moses Brown $60
One orphan of Capt. Nicholas Pierce 20
Widow of Capt. John Dole 50
Widow of Capt. Eben Hoyt 20
Widow of Capt. Jonathan Moulton 30
Widow of Capt. Michael Titcomb 30
Widow of Capt. Abel Lunt 18
Widow of Capt. Philip Aubin 20
Widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe 20
Widow of Capt. Joseph Woodman 18
Widow of Capt. Benaiah Titcomb 22
Widow of Green Johnson 20
Widow of Benjamin Rogers 20
Widow of Capt. Thomas Follansbee 30
Widow of Capt. Jonathan Titcomb 15
$343
ISAAC STONE,
STEPHEN HOLLAND,
JOSEPH PATCH,
GEORGE JENKINS,
Committee.
May 2,7, 1824, voted, that the society approve of the proceed-
ings of the committee respecting the loan of $100 to Capt. Stephen
Holland, and that they be authorized to grant him a further loan
of $100.
Nov. 25, 1824, voted, that this society return their thanks to
Capt. Nicholas Johnson for his faithful and honorable discharge
of his duties while their president, and they regret that he feel it
necessary to resign that office.
Admission fee, $35.
Voted, that Capt. Joseph Russell be admitted a member of
this society.
Officers elected:
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, President.
Capt. Jacob Stone, Vice President.
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, Treasurer.
Capt. Peter Le Breton, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Nicholas Johnson,
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Joseph Patch,
Capt. Isaac Stone,
Capt. Paul Simpson.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT
153
Relief committee :
Capt. Jacob Stone,
Capt. John Wills,
Capt. Joseph Patch,
Capt. Charles Hodge,
Capt. Daniel Stone.
Dec. 9, 1824, report of finance committee :
100 shares in the Newburyport bank $6000.00
16 shares in Massachusetts bank 4000.00
Note of William Davis on demand 2200.00
Stephen Holland, balance of note 81.29
Amount in the hands of the treasurer 38970
NICHOLAS JOHNSON,
GEORGE JENKINS,
PAUL SIMPSON,
JOSEPH PATCH,
$12,670.99
Committee.
Report of relief committee:
Orphans of Capt. Moses Brown
Orphans of Capt. Nicholas Pierce
Widow of Capt. John Dole
Widow of Capt. Eben Hoyt
Widow of Capt. Jonathan Moulton
Widow of Capt. Michael Titcomb
Widow of Capt. Abel Lunt
Widow of Capt. Philip Aubin
Widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe
Widow of Capt. Joseph Woodman
Widow of Capt. Benaiah Titcomb
Widow of Capt. Thomas Follansbee
Widow of Green Johnson
Widow of Capt. Jonathan Titcomb
ISAAC STONE,
JOSEPH PATCH,
DANIEL STONE,
CHARLES HODGE,
JOHN WILLS,
$50
IS
50
15
40
40
20
20
20
IS
35
35
IS
15
$385
Committee.
154 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, that Capt. Paul Simpson be authorized to draw on the
treasurer for $90 and pay the same to the widows of Capt. Michael
Titcomb and John Dole, in such manner and way as he shall judge
best.
Voted, that the thanks of this society be given to Mr. Joseph
Adams of Boston, for his politeness in attending to the business
there, free of expense to the society, and that the secretary com-
municate the same to him.
May 26, 1825, voted, that Capts. George Jenkins, Eleazer
Johnson, Isaac Adams, and Joseph Patch, be a committee in ac-
cordance with the request of Capt. Isaac Stone, to investigate the
facts relative to his late unfortunate voyage in the brig Sewell.
Voted, that the president be authorized, either personally or
by agent, to purchase stock to the amount not exceeding three
thousand dollars, in the bank about to be established at or near
Saco, the committee for managing the society's funds concurring
therewith.
Voted, that this meeting stand adjourned till notification be
given by the committee appointed to examine into Capt. Stone's
case, that they are ready to make their report.
June 6, 1825, voted, to accept the report of the committee ap-
pointed to investigate the conduct of Capt. Isaac Stone on his late
voyage in the brig Sewell.
Voted, that Capt. John Wills, Abraham Wheelwright and
Isaac Adams, be a committee to draft a certificate for Capt. Stone,
and to lay it before the society at the adjournment.
June 10, 1825, voted, to adjourn this meeting to Tuesday, the
14th inst, and that each member of the society be notified of the
same in writing.
Voted, that Capt. Charles Stone be requested to perform the
duty of (Hodge) the secretary during his absence.
June 14, 1825, voted, that a certificate be granted to Capt.
Isaac Stone according to the report of their committee, and
agreeable to the twenty-first article of their bye-laws.
Aug. 25, 1825, voted, that the committee for managing the
society's funds be authorized to take such measures as they may
think expedient to procure the money for paying the instalments
on the stock subscribed for in the new bank at Saco.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 55
Nov. 24, 1825, officers elected:
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, President.
Capt. Jacob Stone, Vice President.
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, Treasurer.
Capt. Peter Le Breton, Secretary.
Admission fee, $35.
Finance committee :
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Joseph Patch,
Capt. Isaac Stone,
Capt. Paul Simpson,
Capt. Joseph Russell.
Relief committee :
Capt. Jacob Stone,
Capt. John Wills,
Capt. Joseph Patch,
Capt. William Nichols,
Capt. Joseph Russell.
Voted, that the secretary be requested to call on Capt. Benja-
min Pierce and Capt. William Bartlett, and inform them, that
unless they comply with the bye-laws by visiting the society and
paying their dues, they will be disfranchised.
Report of the finance committee :
100 shares in the Newburyport bank $6000.00
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank 4000.00
30 shares in the Manufacturers bank, Saco 1500.00
Fishing Co. note 1100.00
Capt. Stephen Holland's note 81.29
Cash in the hands of the treasurer 33°79
$13,012.08
GEORGE JENKINS,
ISAAC STONE,
JOSEPH P. RUSSELL,
Committee.
Report of relief committee:
Widow of Capt. John Dole $75
Widow of Capt. Michael Titcomb 50
Widow of Capt. Jonathan Moulton 40
Widow of Capt. Benaiah Titcomb 60
156 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Widow of Capt. Thomas Follansbee 60
Widow of Capt. Philip Aubin 25
Widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe 40
Widow of Capt. Joseph Woodman 20
Widow of Capt. Abel Lunt 40
Widow of Capt. Eben Hoyt 20
Widow of Capt. Green Johnson 20
Orphans of Moses Brown 30
Orphans of Nicholas Pierce 25
JACOB STONE,
WILLIAM NICHOLS,
JOSEPH PATCH,
JOSEPH P. RUSSELL,
JOHN WILLS, JR.,
$505
Committee.
Voted, that Capts. George Jenkins, Isaac Adams, and Jacob
Stone, be a committee to find a suitable place for the society to
meet at in future.
Aug. 31, 1826, voted, that the sum of $25 be appropriated to
the use of the widow of Capt. Alexander Livingston, and that the
visiting committee be authorized to draw on the treasurer for that
amount.
Special meeting, Oct. 4, 1826, voted, that Capts. Eleazer John-
son, Sewell Toppan, Isaac Stone, John Wills, and Joseph Russell,
be a committee to wait on Col. Anderson, the gentleman appoint-
ed by government to survey our harbor, and offer him their assist-
ance with that of the society, to effect his purpose.
Nov. 30, 1826, voted, that the sum for admission into this so-
ciety for the year ensuing be $35.
Officers elected:
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, President.
Capt. Jacob Stone, Vice President.
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, Treasurer.
Capt. Peter Le Breton, Secretary.
Finance committee:
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Joseph Patch,
Capt. John N. Cushing,
Capt. Paul Simpson,
Capt. Joseph P. Russell.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NKWBURYPORT 157
Relief committee :
Capt. George Jenkins,
Capt. Joseph Patch,
Capt. John N. Cushing,
Capt. Paul Simpson,
Capt. Joseph P. Russell.
Voted, that Capt. Benjamin Pierce be disfranchised for not
complying with the bye-laws of this society, and that his dues and
fines be remitted to him.
Voted, to accept the report of the committee chosen at the
special meeting in November, to wait on Col. Anderson, and that
the same committee be requested to give him such further infor-
mation as he has requested, and likewise to our representative in
Congress such directions as are necessary for the furtherance of
the object in view.
Voted, that this society recommend Mr. Joseph Lunt to the
Governor, as a pilot for the harbor of Newburyport, according to
the request of the merchants of this town.
Dec. 14, 1826, report of the finance committee :
100 shares in the Newburyport bank $6000.00
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank 4000.00
30 shares in the Manufacturers bank, Saco 3000.00
Capt. Stephen Holland's note 81.29
Cash in hands of the treasurer 229.28 1-2
GEORGE JENKINS,
JOSEPH PATCH,
JOHN N. CUSHING,
PAUL SIMPSON,
Report of the relief committee :
$13,310.57 1-2
Committee.
Capt. Sewell Toppan $50
Widow of Capt. Michael Titcomb 50
Widow of Capt. John Dole 75
Widow of Capt. Thomas Follansbee 60
Widow of Capt. Alexander Livingston 40
Widow of Capt. Philip Aubin 20
Widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe 35
Widow of Capt. Joseph Woodman 20
Widow of Capt. Abel Lunt 30
Widow of Capt. Eben Hoyt 20
158 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Widow of Capt. Green Johnson 20
Widow of Capt. Jonathan Moulton 40
Widow of Capt. William Nichols 20
Orphans of Capt. Moses Brown 30
$510
GEORGE JENKINS,
JOHN N. CUSHING,
PAUL SIMPSON,
JOSEPH PATCH,
JOSEPH P. RUSSELL,
Committee.
Nov. 29, 1827, officers elected :
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, President.
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, Vice President.
Capt. George Jenkins, Treasurer.
Capt. Joseph Brown, Jr., Secretary.
Voted, that the sum to be paid for admittance into this society
be $35.
Finance committee :
Capt. Paul Simpson,
Capt. John Wills, Jr.,
Capt. George Campbell,
Capt. Isaac Adams,
Capt. William Nichols.
Relief committee :
Capt. Paul Simpson,
Capt. John Wills, Jr.,
Capt. George Campbell,
Capt. Isaac Adams,
Capt. William Nichols.
Voted, that the society meet at Mr. Gilman's hotel the year
ensuing.
Voted unanimously, that the thanks of the society be present-
ed to Capt. Peter Le Breton for the long and faithful services
rendered by him while performing the duties of his office as sec-
retary.
At a special meeting of the Marine Society held at the office
of William Woart, Esq., on Friday evening, Dec. 7, 1827, at 6
o'clock p. m., the subject for consideration before the society be-
ing the obstructions in and at the entrance of the Merrimack river.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NBWBURYPORT 1 59
Voted, that a memorial be drawn and presented to Congress
by the society on the above mentioned subject.
Voted, that a committee of three be chosen to draft said me-
morial.
Voted, that a committee of two be chosen to nominate the
drafting committee.
Voted, that Capt. Abraham Wheelwright and Capt. Eleazer
Johnson, be the nominating committee.
Voted, that Capts. Isaac Adams, Joseph P. Russell, and John
Wills, Jr., be a committee to draft a memorial and report at the
adjournment of the annual meeting, and that said memorial be
signed by every member of the society.
Dec. 13, 1827, voted, to accept the report of the committee to
prepare a memorial to be signed by the members of this society
and that it be presented to Congress.
Voted, that the same committee prepare said memorial.
Report of the finance committee :
100 shares in the Newburyport bank $6000.00
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank 4000.00
30 shares in the Manufacturers bank, Saco 3000.00
Capt. Stephen Holland's note 81.29
Cash in the treasurer's hands 400.53 1-2
$13,481.82 1-2
Dec. 4, 1827.
PAUL SIMPSON,
WILLIAM NICHOLS,
GEORGE CAMPBELL,
JOHN WILLS, JR.,
Committee.
Report of relief committee
Capt. Sewell Toppan $50
Capt. John Dole's children 25
Capt. Moses Brown's children 20
Capt. James Myers 50
Widow of Capt. Thomas Follansbee 45
Widow of Capt. Alexander Livingston 60
Widow of Capt. Philip Aubin 30
Widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe 35
Widow of Capt. Joseph Woodman 20
Widow of Capt. Abel Lunt 25
Widow of Capt. Eben Hoyt 15
Widow of Capt. Green Johnson 20
l6o RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Widow of Capt. Jonathan Moulton 40
Widow of Capt. William Nichols 20
Widow of Capt. W. P. Johnson 20
Widow of Capt. William Pickett 20
Dec. 5, 1827.
$495
PAUL SIMPSON,
ISAAC ADAMS,
WILLIAM NICHOLS,
GEORGE CAMPBELL,
JOHN WILLS, JR.,
Committee.
Voted, that this society dispense with refreshments in future,
and that the expense of room, candles, etc., be paid out of the
funds, and likewise for this evening.
Agreed with John Gilman, to hold the meetings of this society
at his house the year ensuing and pay him $2 per evening for the
room, lights, etc.
Feb. 28 1828, voted, to grant Capt. Joseph Bragdon twenty
dollars.
Voted, that Capt. Paul Simpson draw on the treasurer for the
above sum, and pay it to Capt. Joseph Bragdon.
Wednesday, Sept. 24, 1828, Brother George Campbell depart-
ed this life, aged 45 years, on Friday. He was interred at Old
Town, the following members attending his funeral.
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, Capt. Eleazer Johnson, Capt.
George Jenkins, Capt. Joseph Brown, Jr., Capt. William Noyes,
Capt. John Coombs, Capt. Sewell Toppan, Capt. Samuel Rolfe,
Capt. Paul Simpson, Capt. James Meyer, Capt. William Williams,
Capt. Joseph Patch, Capt. Jacob Stone, Capt, Joseph P. Russell,
Capt. Peter Le Breton, Capt. Daniel Stone, Capt. Thomas Mor-
rison, Capt. Charles Hodge, Capt. David Haskell, Capt. William
Graves, Capt. John Wills, Jr., Capt. Samuel Nichols, Capt. William
Bartlett, Jr., Qapt. William Titcomb. »
Nov. 27, 1828, officers chosen :
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright, President.
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, Vice President.
Capt. George Jenkins, Treasurer.
Capt. Joseph Brown, Jr., Secretary.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT l6l
Voted, to grant Capt. Stephen Holland the sum of forty dol-
lars, and likewise to give him his note of hand for $81.21, which the
society holds against him.
Finance committee :
Capt. Paul Simpson,
Capt. John Wills,
Capt. Joseph P. Russell,
Capt. Isaac Stone,
Capt. Samuel Nichols.
Relief committee :
Capt. John N. Cushing,
Capt. Joseph Patch,
Capt. Mark Symonds,
Capt. Thomas Morrison,
Capt. William Titcomb.
Admission fee, $35.
Voted, that the meetings of the society be held at the Merri-
mack Hotel the year ensuing, and agreed with Mr. Gilman for the
same terms as the past year.
Voted, that all members who are absent from the adjourn-
ment of annual meetings in future, shall pay a fine of twenty-five
cents, unless they be excused by a vote of the society.
Report of the finance committee Dec. II, 1828:
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank $4000.00
106 shares in the Newburyport bank, by 11 certificates 6360.00
30 shares in the Manufacturer* bank, Saco 3000.00
Cash in treasurer's hands 287.67
$13,647.67
PAUL SIMPSON,
JOHN WILLS,
JOSEPH P. RUSSELL,
SAMUEL NICHOLS,
ISAAC STONE,
Committee.
Report of relief committee :
Capt. Sewell Toppan $50
Capt. James Meyers 40
Capt. Joseph Bragdon 40
Widow of Capt. Alexander Livingston 55
11-a
l6l RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Widow of Capt. Jonathan Moulton 35
Widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe 30
Widow of Capt. Thomas Follansbee 20
Widow of Capt. Joseph Woodman 20
Widow of Capt. Abel Lunt 20
Widow of Capt. Eben Hoyt 20
Widow of Capt. W. P. Johnson 20
Widow of Capt. Green Johnson 10
Widow of Capt. William Pickett 10
Child of John Dole 20
$390
Voted, that the committee for managing the society's funds
be hereby authorized to sell and transfer the stock in the Manufac-
turers bank of Saco, with the consent of the president of this so-
ciety, and invest the proceeds thereof in such stock as they may
think expedient, if it should appear to them advisable.
Feb. 26, 1829, meeting held at Merrimack Hotel.
Voted, to grant fifteen dollars to the youngest daughter of
Capt. Moses Brown deceased.
Voted, to grant the widow of Capt. Philip Aubin, twenty dol-
lars.
March 5, 1829, Brother Peter Le Breton departed this life af-
ter lingering some time under a paralytic disorder, aged 58 years.
His body was interred in the New burying ground, March 9, 1829.
Twenty-one members attended his funeral.
Aug. 27, 1829, voted, that Capts. John Wills, Joseph Patch
and Thomas Morrison, be a committee to ascertain the situation
of the light houses on Plumb Island, and to consult with the mer-
cantile gentlemen of the town, and if they think it necessary that
they should be removed, to apply to the proper authorities and
state the cause.
Nov. 26, 1829, meeting held at Merrimack Hotel. Officers
chosen :
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, President.
Capt. George Jenkins, Vice President.
Capt. Paul Simpson, Treasurer.
Capt. Joseph Brown, Jr., Secretary.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 63
Finance committee :
Capt. John Wills,
Capt. Joseph Russell,
Capt. Isaac Stone,
Capt. John N. Cushing,
Capt. Joseph Patch.
Relief committee:
Capt. Thomas Morrison,
Capt. William Graves,
Capt. William Titcomb,
Capt. John H. Titcomb,
Capt. Joseph P. Russell.
Voted, that the thanks of this society be given to Capt.
Abraham Wheewright, unanimously, for his faithful services dur-
ing his presidency.
Voted, that the admission fee be $35.
Voted, to hold the meetings of the society the ensuing year
at the Merrimack Hotel, and agreed with Mr. Gilman for the
room, etc., at $2 per evening.
Voted, that a committee be chosen to revise the bye-laws of
the society and to ascertain the expense of printing them, and to
make their report at the adjournment on the second Thursday in
December next. Capts. Hector Coffin, John Wills and Dennis
Condry, were nominated and chosen as a committee to examine
and revise the bye-laws.
Report of finance committee :
16 shares in Massachusetts bank, Boston $4000.00
106 shares in Newburyport bank, 11 certificates 6360.00
30 shares in Manufacturers bank, Saco 3000.00
Cash in treasurer's hands 546.30
JOHN WILLS,
JOHN N. CUSHING,
JOjSEPH P. RUSSELL,
JOSEPH PATCH,
$13,906.30
Committee.
164 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Report of relief committee :
Widow of Capt. Alexander Livingston $60
Widow of Capt. Jonathan Moulton 40
Widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe 35
Widow of Capt. Thomas Follansbee 15
Widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe 35
Widow of Capt. Joseph H. Woodman 25
Widow of Capt. Abel Lunt 25
Widow of Capt. Eben Hoyt 25
Widow of Capt. William P. Johnson 20
Widow of Capt. William Pickett 10
Widow of Capt. Green Johnson 10
Capt. Sewell Toppan 5°
Capt. James Meyers 5°
Capt. Joseph Bragdon 50
Child of John Dole 25
$440
CAPT. THOMAS MORRISON,
CAPT. JOSEPH P. RUSSELL,.
CAPT. WILLIAM GRAVES,
CAPT. JOHN H. TITCOMB,
Committee.
Voted, that all sums granted over twenty dollars, are to be
paid at two payments, semi-annually, and all sums granted under
twenty dollars are to be paid in one payment.
Voted, the bye-laws as revised by the committee to be read
and voted upon, article by article or singly.
Each article was read separately and accepted.
Voted, that the revising committee have power to alter the
phraseology of the above articles in the bye-laws, not altering the
sense of them.
Voted, that the president be authorized to apply to the legis-
lature for liberty to make such alterations in the bye-laws of this
society as have been presented by the revising committee.
Voted, that the said committee be authorized to get the bye-
laws printed, and that each member be presented with a copy of
them.
Voted, that there be two hundred copies of the bye-laws print-
ed, and that the committee present the bill to the treasurer and he
be authorized to pay the same.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NKWBURYPORT 1 65
Feb. 25, 1830, Merrimack Hotel, voted, to reconsider the vote
(passed at the adjournment in December last) relating to the dis-
tribution of sums granted for relief.
Voted, that the distributing committee use their discretion in
distributing the sums voted for relief in November last at the an-
nual meeting.
Voted, that the president, vice president, and treasurer or
either of them (as may be most convenient to themselves) are
hereby requested to attend the annual or any other meetings of the
banks in which the society is interested, represent the stock of the
society, and vote as they may judge most conducive to our inter-
ests, and to enquire into the state of said banks and report the
same at the next meeting.
Voted, that Capt. Abraham Wheelwright be a committee to
write to his friend in Saco, to obtain information respecting the
state of the Manufacturers bank in Saco.
Voted unanimously, that the thanks of this society be pre-
sented to Capt. William Farris, for his attention in forwarding the
business relating to a petition of the society to the General Court,
for amending their constitution and bye-laws, and that the secre-
tary present him with a copy of the vote.
Voted, that the petition and the two acts be recorded.
Voted, that each member be presented with a diploma and
book of the bye-laws (gratis.)
Candidates now on the book for admission :
Capt. Amos Noyes,
Capt. John C. Hardy,
Capt. Benjamin Harrod,
Capt. Micajah Lunt, Jr.,
Capt. George Lunt.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, in the year of our Lord, one thousand
eight hundred and fourteen.
An Act in addition to an Act establishing a Marine Society at New-
buryport.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General
Court assembled, and by the authority of the same, that from and after
the passing of this Act, the Marine Society at Newburyport may regulate
and determine on their times of meeting, anything in the Act establishing
that Society passed on the eleventh day of October one thousand seven
hundred and seventy-seven, or in their bye-laws as at present existing to
the contrary notwithstanding.
11-b
1 66 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
In the House of Representatives, Oct. 17, 1814, this bill having had
three several readings passed to be enacted.
TIMOTHY BIGELOW, Speaker.
In Senate. This bill having had two several readings, passed to be
enacted.
JOHN PHILLIPS, President.
A true copy.
EDWARD D. BANGS,
Secretary of the Commonwealth.
October 18, 1814.
Approved: CALEB STRONG.
To the Honorable Senate and House of Representatives in Gen-
eral Court assembled :
Your petitioners, a committee of the Marine Society of
Newburyport, humbly represent that in the year one thousand
seven hundred and seventy-seven, a society (then of some years
existence) was incorporated under the style and title of the Marine
Society of Newburyport, with various privileges and powers, that
in said act of incorporation, the four first officers of the society
were entitled, Master, Deputy Master, Treasurer and Clerk, with
permission of levying any penalty under twenty shillings, and to
admit members by a majority of the votes of the members present.
Your petitioners acting under the vote of the members of the
society and by order of the Master, pray in behalf of the society
that the four first officers of the society may be called by the more
republican and appropriate style and title of President, Vice Presi-
dent, Treasurer, and Secretary, the members of said society ac-
knowledging no master, but the Supreme Ruler of the Universe,
to whom they ever bow with humility, awe and reverence.
And that they have power to make laws to inflict penalties in
extreme cases to the amount of ten dollars, and not to admit
members short of two-thirds of the votes of all the members pres-
ent, and your petitioners as in duty bound, shall ever pray.
HECTOR COFFIN,
JOHN WILLS,
Committee of the Marine Society of Newburyport.
A certificate of the clerk to the committee being regularly ap-
pointed and duly authorized for the above purposes and signed,
Jan. 7, 1830.
A true copy. JOSEPH BROWN, JR., Secretary.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 67
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, in the year of our Lord, one thousand
eight hundred and thirty.
An Act in addition to an act, entitled an Act establishing a Marine
Society at Newburyport.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives and in Gen-
eral Court assembled and by authority of the the same, that from and after
the passing of this Act, the Marine Society of Newburyport shall call their
four first officers by the style and title of President, Vice President,
Treasurer and Secretary, and that they shall be empowered to make bye-
laws and to inflict penalties to the amount of ten dollars, and that in the
admission of members, two-thirds of the votes of all the members pres-
ent shall be requisite to admit a candidate to membership, anything in the
Act establishing that society passed on the eleventh day of October, one
thousand seven hundred and seventy-seven, or in their bye-laws as at
present existing, to the contrary notwithstanding.
In the House of Representatives, Jan. 31, 1830.
Passed to be enacted.
WILLIAM B. CALHOUN, Speaker.
In the Senate, Jan 21, 1830.
Passed to be enacted.
SAMUEL LATHROP, President.
Jan. 22, 1830. Approved:
LEVI LINCOLN.
A true copy of the original Act.
EDWARD D. BANGS,
Secretary of the Commonwealth.
May 27, 1830, voted, to excuse Capt. R. Follansbee his dues
during the pleasure of the society.
Voted, that the secretary is authorized and requested to give
each member who is prevented by age and other circumstances
from attending the meetings of the society, a copy of the revised
edition of the bye-laws and a diploma if they wish for one.
Voted, to refund Capt. Isaac Stone his dues paid in this even-
ing, and that he be excused paying any dues in future during the
pleasure of the society.
Candidates for membership:
Capt. Benjamin Pierce,
Capt. Amos Noyes,
Capt. John C. Hardy,
Capt. Benjamin Harrod,
Capt. Micajah Lunt, Jr.,
Capt. George Lunt.
1 68 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Aug. 26, 1830, the president read a letter from Capt. Benja-
min Connor (formerly a member of this society) now at the city
of Washington, after which the president read a copy of his an-
swer to the above letter.
Nov. 25, 1830, officers chosen:
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, President.
Capt. George Jenkins, Vice President.
Capt. Paul Simpson, Treasurer.
Capt. Joseph Brown, Jr., Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. John Wills,
Capt. Joseph P. Russell,
Capt. Isaac Stone,
Capt. John N. Cushing,
Capt. Joseph Patch.
Relief committee :
Capt. Joseph P. Russell,
Capt. Dennis Condry,
Capt. Zebulon Titcomb,
Capt. John T. Ross,
Capt. William Williams.
Admission fee, thirty-five dollars.
Report of finance committee:
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank, Boston, $4000.00
in shares in the Newburyport bank 6660.00
30 shares in the Manufacturers bank, Saco, 3000.00
2 shares in the Mechanics bank, Newburyport, 200.00
Cash in the hands of the treasurer 35860
$14,218.60
JOHN WILLS,
JOHN N. CUSHING,
JOSEPH P. RUSSELL,
Newburyport, Nov. 30, 1830.
Report of the relief committee:
Capt. James Meyer $60
Capt. Sewell Toppan 5°
Capt. Joseph Bragdon 45
Capt. Stephen Holland 30
Committee.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 69
Widow of Capt. Alexander Livingston 70
Widow of Capt. Eben Hoyt 15
Widow of Capt. W. P. Johnson 30
Widow of Capt. Philip Aubin 15
Widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe 40
Widow of Capt. Thomas Follansbee 25
Widow of Capt. Joseph Woodman 20
Widow of Capt. Jonathan Moulton 40
Widow of Capt. Abel Lunt 25
Widow of Capt. Green Johnson 10
Widow of Capt. William Pickett 10
Widow of Capt. Nathaniel Fletcher 15
Daughter of Capt. John Dole 25
$525
Newburyport, Dec. 9, 1830.
JOSEPH P. RUSSELL,
JOHN T. ROSS,
WILLIAM WILLIAMS,
DENNIS CONDRY,
ZEBULON TITCOMB,
Committee.
Dec. 9, 1830, voted, that the committee on finance be em-
powered to sell eleven shares of the Newburyport bank, whenever
they deem it expedient.
Dec. 15, 1830, Brother James Meyer, aged 61, departed this
life Dec. 17. He was interred in the New Burying Ground, the fol-
lowing members attended the funeral.
Captains John Coombs, Sewell Toppan, Abraham Wheel-
wright, George Jenkins, Samuel Rolfe, Eleazer Johnson, Isaac
Stone, Charles Hodge, Thomas Morrison, Paul Simpson, Joseph
Patch, Daniel Stone, Robert Follansbee, John T. Ross, William
Graves, William Williams, Hector Coffin, Joseph P. Russell, Zeb-
ulon Titcomb, David Haskell.
Feb. 24 1831, voted, to pay Mrs. Meyer the remainder of the
yearly sum to be paid her husband before his decease, it was to
have been paid him half yearly.
Voted, that the three first officers of the society, together with
the financial committee, be authorized and empowered to act as
they think most conducive to the interests of the society in respect
to purchasing stock in the new bank (if established).
May 26, 1 83 1, voted, to approve of the president having hired
the money to pay in the first instalment to the new bank.
170 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
The stockholders of the Newburyport bank, having recently
voted to close their charter at the expiration of the same, which
will be in October next, and as the Marine Society of Newburyport
are largely interested in the stock of said bank, the president, vice
president, treasurer and the financial committee of said Marine
Society met this day at the counting room of Capt. John Wills, in
said Newburyport, to consult and adopt such measures touching
their interest in said bank stock as they should think best for the
society. Capt. Eleazer Johnson, their president, was chairman,
and Capt. Isaac Stone was chosen secretary, and the following
votes passed unanimously, viz :
Voted, that the president of the Marine Society be authorized
to subscribe in the name and in the behalf of the Newburyport Ma-
rine Society, to the stock of the Merchants Bank in Newburyport,
one hundred and eleven shares, that being the number of shares
at present owned by said Marine Society in the Newburyport
bank.
Voted, that Capt. Paul Simpson, treasurer of the said Marine
Society, be hereby authorized to receive the dividends which may
be declared of the stock of the Newburyport bank, and to pay the
same to the Merchants bank, taking receipts for the same, and de-
liver up the certificates of the stock of the Newburyport bank, and
receiving the certificates of the Merchants bank whenever the
same may be completed.
Newburyport, 5th March, 1831.
Attest, a true copy, Isaac Stone, Secretary.
CAPT. JOHN WILLS,
Chairman Financial Committee.
Thursday, June 23, 183 1, departed this life, brother Jacob
Stone, aged 66 years. Saturday, June 25, his body was interred in
the Old Town burying ground, 22 members of the society attended
the funeral.
Tuesday, July 5, 1831, departed this life, brother George Jen-
kins, aged 57 years. He died in Salem, and his body was brought
to Newburyport and interred in St. Paul's churchyard. He was
vice president of the society. The society did not attend the fu-
neral.
Saturday, Aug. 20, 183 1, departed this life, brother Robert
Follansbee, aged 61 years. Sunday 21st, his body was interred in
the old burying ground. The funeral services were performed by
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 171
the Rev. Dr. Morse in the St. Paul's church, 18 members of the
society attended the funeral.
Aug. 25, 1831, voted, to relieve the widow of Robert Follans-
bee, by giving her $20.
Monday, Nov. 7, 183 1, departed this life, brother William
Noyes, aged 92 years. His body was interred in the old burying
ground on Wednesday, Nov. 9. Twenty members of the society
attended the funeral.
Nov. 24, 1831, officers elected:
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, President.
Capt. John N. Gushing, Vice President.
Capt. Paul Simpson, Treasurer.
Capt. Joseph Brown, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Micajah Lunt, Jr.,
Capt. John H. Titcomb,
Capt. William Graves,
Capt. Samuel Nichols.
Capt. William Nichols.
Relief committee:
Capt. Joseph P. Russell,
Capt. Joseph Patch,
Capt. Micajah Lunt, Jr.,
Capt. John H. Titcomb,
Capt. Samuel Nichols.
Admission fee, $35.
Voted, that the meetings of this society continue to be held at
the Merrimack Hotel, and agreed with the landlord at the usual
terms of two dollars per evening for the room, etc.
Voted, to have a number of diplomas struck and printed with
the plate of the society.
Voted, that the expediency or propriety of expunging the
20th article of the bye-laws be entered for reconsideration at the
quarterly meeting in February next.
Voted, not to act (as a society) on a letter and petition laid be-
fore the society, respecting the building of a light house or light
houses at the entrance of Ipswich harbor.
Dec. 8, 1831, Capt. John N. Gushing stated to the society that
he declined accepting the office of vice president, to which he was
elected at the annual meeting, and requested to be excused.
172
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, to excuse Capt. John N. Cushing from serving as vice
president the ensuing year.
Capt. Paul Simpson was unanimously chosen as vice presi-
dent for the year ensuing.
Capt. John N. Cushing was unanimously chosen treasurer.
Report of finance committee :
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank, Boston, $4000.00
in shares in the Merchants bank, Newburyport, 5550.00
2 shares in the Mechanics bank 200.00
30 shares in the Manufacturers bank 3000.00
Balance due on 111 shares Newburyport bank 099.00
Cash in the treasurer's hands 312.53
$14,061.53
MICAJAH LUNT, JR.,
WILLIAM NICHOLS,
SAMUEL NICHOLS,
WILLIAM GRAVES,
JOHN H. TITCOMB,
Report of the relief committee :
Capt. Sewell Toppan
Capt. Joseph Bragdon
Widow of Capt. Alexander Livingston
Widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe
Widow of Capt. James Meyer
Thomas Follansbee
Robert Follansbee
Joseph Woodman
Jonathan Moulton
Widow of Capt
Widow of Capt
Widow of Capt
Widow of Capt
Widow of Capt. Abel Lunt
Widow of Capt. Eben Hoyt
Widow of Capt. W. P. Johnson
Widow of Capt. Green Johnson •
Widow of Capt. William Pickett
Widow of Capt. Philip Aubin
Widow of Capt. Nathaniel Fletcher
Child of John Dole
Committee.
$45
45
60
30
35
20
30
25
40
25
20
30
10
20
10
30
20
$495
Voted, that the treasurer may hire what money may be neces-
sary to meet the drafts of the committee of relief.
Voted, that the three first officers of the society, sign (for and
in the behalf of the society) a letter to David Henshaw, collector
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 73
of customs in Boston, requesting that an improvement may be
made in the lights on Plumb Island at the entrance of the Merri-
mack river.
Feb. 23, 1832, voted, that the fine of fifty cents for non-at-
tendance at funerals of deceased members (as in the 20th article
of the bye-laws) be altered to the sum of twenty-five cents.
Candidates for admission:
Capt. Benjamin Harrod,
Capt. Jeremiah P. Wood,
Capt. John Coffin,
Capt. Edmund Pike,
Capt. David Stickney.
April 12, 1832, the following communication from the corpo-
ration of the Plumb Island bridge was read to the society by the
president.
To the President and Members of the Newburyport Marine So-
ciety :
Gentlemen: — The proprietors of the Plumb Island Hotel,
Bridge and Turnpike Corporation have petitioned Congress to
aid them in building up the bridge connecting Plumb Island with
the main land, it being very desirable that the communication
should be kept open for the public good as a national benefit, for
reasons stated in their petition. Should your views accord with
those of the petitioners on the subject, you will oblige us by call-
ing a meeting of your body and confirming as far as you may the
statement made in our petition. The corporation are unable any
longer to support the bridge without help from the government, it
having been so prostrated and injured by the ice during the last
winter, that it cannot be rebuilt by the proprietors, who have al-
ready made large pecuniary sacrifices to sustain the bridge.
Newburyport, April 10th, 1832.
This is to certify that the above is a request of the corpora-
tion at their meeting on the 7th inst.
Attest:— DANIEL BALCH, Clerk.
Voted, to choose a committee of three to examine the afore-
mentioned communication and report thereon to the society.
Voted, that Capts. Eleazer Johnson, John Wills, and Micajah
Lunt, Jr., compose this committee.
Voted, to accept, adopt and record the report of the committee
of which, the following is a copy.
174 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Report.
The committee appoonted to report a statement of the facts
respecting the origin, advantages to the public, and the present
situation of Plumb Island bridge, hereby report that the principal
object of building the same, was for the relief of shipwrecked mar-
iners and to save property that would be lost by being cast on
shore on said island. The advantages and benefits to the public
have been many times witnessed, of vessels and more particularly
their cargoes being saved and prompt relief afforded the crews by
the communication by said bridge which could not have been
rendered in violent storms by water, that the government have
received revenue to a large amount from property saved, and that
it is the only way in tempestuous weather to render assistance (if
required) to the keepers of the lights on the north part of the
island.
The Marine Society have at their own charge caused to be
built and kept in repair, three buildings for the shelter of ship-
wrecked mariners, which since the erection of the bridge and
hotel by the corporation have been suffered to go to decay. The
access by the bridge, the assistance at hand, and the convenience
of the hotel having rendered it unnecessary to repair the same.
The bridge during the past winter having been partly removed and
destroyed by the ice, the proprietors having built and kept the
same in repair for many years, and having received but three-
fourths of one per cent for the same, it is not to be expected (with-
out assistance from the government or other aid from the public)
that the proprietors will rebuild or keep it in repair, but abandon
the same and suffer a total loss, whereby the public will be deprived
of the advantages heretofore received, the shipwrecked mariners of
assistance in time of need, and the government of the revenue on
property rescued from loss.
Respectfully submitted,
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
JOHN WILLS,
MICAJAH LUNT, JR.,
Committee.
Voted, that a copy of the proceedings of this meeting be
signed by the president and secretary with the seal of the society
affixed and presented to the proprietors of the Plumb Island
bridge.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 75
Saturday, May 7, 1832, Brother Joseph Bragdon departed this
life, aged 66 years. His body was interred in the new burying
ground on Monday, the 9th inst. Seventeen members of the so-
ciety attended the funeral.
Capt. Samuel Rolfe departed this life, Saturday, Nov. 10th,
1832, aged 67 years, and was interred the 14th in the Old Town
burying ground. Nineteen members attended the funeral.
Nov. 29, 1832, officers chosen:
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, President.
Capt. Paul Simpson, Vice President.
Capt. John N. Cushing, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles Hodge, Secretary.
Voted unanimously, that Capts. Jeremiah P. Wood, John
Coffin, Edmund Pike, David Stickney, William A. Cheney and
Samuel Boardman, be admitted as members, and that Capt. Fran-
cis B. Todd, Capt. Benjamin Barber and Capt. John N. Wills, be
considered as candidates for admission.
Finance committee :
Capt. William Nichols,
Capt. Hector Coffin,
Capt. Mark Symonds,
Capt. Amos Noyes,
Capt. William Bartlet, 2d.
Relief committee :
Capt. William Titcomb,
Capt. Mark Symonds,
Capt. Amos Noyes,
Capt. Giles P. Stone,
Capt. John T. Ross.
Voted, to remit the dues of Capt. Samuel Rolfe, deceased.
Voted, that the society meet at the Merrimack Hotel for the
year ensuing.
Report of finance committee :
16 shares in Massachusetts bank, Boston $4000.00
30 shares in Manufacturers bank, Saco, 3000.00
in shares in Merchants bank, Newburyport, 5550.00
8 shares in Mechanics bank, Newburyport 800.00
Cash in treasurer's hands 379-88
$13,729.88
176 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Balance due on 11 1 shares, Newburyport bank,
reckoned at par, $6 per share 666.00
$14,395.88
Report of relief committee :
Capt. Sewell Toppan $45
Widow of Capt. Joseph Bragdon 35
Widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe 40
Widow of Capt. Alexander Livingston 60
Widow of Capt. James Meyer 40
Widow of Capt. Thomas Follansbee 10
Widow of Capt. Robert Follansbee 35
Widow of Capt. Joseph Woodman 40
Widow of Capt. Jonathan Moulton 40
Widow of Capt. Abel Lunt 25
Widow of Capt. Eben Hoyt 10
Widow of Capt. W. P. Johnson 40
Widow of Capt. Green Johnson 10
Widow of Capt. William Pickett 30
Widow of Capt. Nathaniel Fletcher 30
Child of John Dole 10
$500
Capt. John Coombs departed this life, Wednesday, February
the 20th, 1833, and was buried the 21st, aged 87. Twenty-two
members of the society attended the funeral.
Feb. 28, 1833, Capts. George Coffin and Capt. Isaac S. Cof-
fin were proposed as candidates by Capt. Micajah Lunt, Jr.
Voted, that the committee on relief enquire into the circum-
stances of Widow Polly Titcomb, and Mrs. Aubin, and grant them
relief if in their opinion it is necessary.
Capt. Daniel Stone departed this life on Saturday, the 12th
day of October, 1833, very suddenly, aged 63 years, and was
buried on Monday, the 14th, in the new burying ground. Sixteen
members attended the funeral from the society.
Nov. 28, 1833, admission fee, $35.
Officers chosen :
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, President.
Capt. Paul Simpson, Vice President.
Capt. John N. Gushing, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles Hodge, Secretary.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NKWBURYPORT 1 77
Finance committee:
Capt. William Bartlet, 2d,
Capt. Isaac Stone,
Capt. William Nichols,
Capt. Samuel Nichols,
Capt. Amos Noyes.
Relief committee :
Capt. Thomas Morrison,
Capt. Amos Noyes,
Capt. John T. Ross,
Capt. Samuel Boardman,
Capt. David Haskell.
Voted, that Capts. Joseph P. Russell, Isaac Stone, Eleazer
Johnson, William Bartlet, 2d, and Paul Simpson, be a committee
to arrange for conducting at funerals.
Voted, to meet at the Merrimack Hotel for the ensuing year.
Report of the finance committee :
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank $4000.00
30 shares in the Manufacturers bank , 3000.00
145 shares in the Merchants bank 7250.00
9 shares in the Mechanics bank 900.00
6 shares in the Ocean bank 600.00
Nominal value due from the Newburyport bank 444.00
Balance in treasurer's hands 92.89
$16,286.89
Note due to Newburyport bank 1,400.00
$14,886.89
Report of relief committee
Widow of Capt. Joseph Bragdon $40
Widow of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe 40
Widow of Capt. Alexander Livingston 50
Widow of Capt. Thomas Follansbee 10
Widow of Capt. Robert Follansbee 35
Widow of Captv Joseph Woodman 40
Widow of Capt. Jonathan Moulton 40
Widow of Capt. Abel Lunt 30
Widow of Capt. Eben Hoyt 40
Widow of Capt. W. P. Johnson 35
Widow of Capt. Green Johnson 10
Widow of Capt. William Pickett 30
12-a
178 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Widow of Capt. Nathaniel Fletcher 30
Widow of Capt. Philip Aubin 20
Widow of Capt. William Nichols 20
Widow of Capt. Jonathan Titcomb 20
$490
The committee chosen by this society at their late annual
meeting for revising the order of procession at funerals of de-
ceased brothers, respectfully recommend that in our proceeding
to the grave yard, the youngest members of the society take the
advance, preceding the bier, and that on our arrival at the grave
yard, we open to the right and left and the procession having
passed between us our order of procession is to be reversed, viz :
the officers and oldest members of the society are to take the lead
and thus follow the procession and when quite out of the grave
yard, each individual member to be at liberty to leave the proces-
sion at his own convenience.
Newburyport, Dec. 12, 1833.
Voted to accept the report of the committee.
Dec. 26, 1833, voted, that a committee of five be chosen to
confer with the merchants committee and select two persons suit-
able for pilots in and out of the river Merrimack, to be recom-
mended to the Governor and Council for branches, likewise to
take into consideration the expediency of recommending an addi-
tion to the present rate of pilotage.
CAPT. ELEAZER JOHNSON,
CAPT. JOHN N. CUSHING,
CAPT. JOHN WILLS,
CAPT. MICAJAH LUNT, JR.,
CAPT. AMOS NOYES,
Committee.
Jan. 13, 1834, special meeting, Merrimack Hotel.
Voted unanimously, that Capt. Mayo Gerrish be recom-
mended to the Governor and Council as a capable and suitable
person to undertake the business of pilotage into and out of the
river Merrimack, in the place of Benjamin Lunt, deceased.
Voted unanimously, that Mr. Jacob K. Lunt be recommended
to the Governor and Council as a capable and suitable person to
undertake the business of pilotage into and out of the river Mer-
rimack, there being in the judgment of said society a necessity for
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 79
the appointment of an additional pilot for the harbor of Newbury-
port.
Voted, that the bonds presented by Capt. M. Gerrish and Mr.
Jacob K. Lunt be approved by this society.
Voted, that the president be a committee to call upon Mr. Jo-
seph L. Colby, and request him to give up his warrant as a pilot,
also to call upon Mr. Enoch Lunt, and in case he holds a warrant
as a pilot, to request him to give it up, and if they decline comply-
ing with the request, that the secretary be directed to certify to
the Governor that they are improper persons to hold a warrant.
May 29, 1834, voted, that Capts. Eleazer Johnson, John N
Cushing and Micajah Lunt, Jr., be a committee to confer with the
merchants, who are ship owners, on the subject of recommending
an increase of the rate of pilotage for the harbor of Newburyport.
and report at the next meeting.
Voted, that Capts. William Bartlett, Micajah Lunt, Jr., and
John T. Ross be a committee to ascertain whether Capt. Moses
Goodrich has forfeited his membership according to the bye-laws
and report at the next meeting.
Aug. 29, 1834, voted, to accept the report of the committee re-
specting pilotage and to have it recorded.
Voted, to accept the report of the committee chosen to ascer-
tain the membership of Capt. Moses Goodrich, wherein they
recommend thirty dollars to be paid him for present relief.
Voted, that the above committee be authorized to draw upon
the treasurer for the above amount and pay it to Capt. M. Good-
rich.
Report respecting pilotage.
We the undersigned, having been appointed by the Marine
Society, a committee to take into consideration the expediency of
increasing the rates of pilotage now allowed by law in and out of
the river Merrimack, beg leave to report.
That we have conferred with the committee appointed by the
merchants for the same purpose, and have unanimously agreed
that the outward rates of pilotage remain as it now is by law
specified.
We also unanimously agree to recommend that an increase of
50 per cent be added to the present rates now allowed by law in-
ward, from the first day of May to the 30th day of October, both
inclusive.
l8o RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
We also unanimously agree to recommend that an increase
of ioo per cent be added to the present rates now allowed
by law inward, from the first day of November to the 30th
day of April, both inclusive, also the pilot shall be allowed to take
charge of all registered vessels employed in the foreign trade
drawing 8 feet or more of water.
We also unanimously agree that it will not be expedient to al-
low day pay in any case and only half pay for the vessels boarded
inside the bar and below Black Rocks, and the master of any vessel
that may pass by Black Rocks inward before the pilot offers him-
self, will not be obliged to receive a pilot or pay any pilotage.
We also unanimously agree, that the above rates (be allowed
to go into effect on the first day of July, 1834.
ELEAZER JOHNSON,
JOHN N. CUSHING,
MICAJAH LUNT, JR.,
Committee.
Nov. 27, 1834, voted, to meet at the Merrimack Hotel for the
ensuing year.
Officers chosen :
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, President.
Gapt. Paul Simpson, Vice President.
Capt. John N. Cushing, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles Hodge, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. William Bartlett, Jr.,
Capt. Isaac Stone,
Capt. William Nichols,
Capt. Samuel Nichols,
Capt. Amos Noyes.
Relief committee:
Capt. William Nichols,
Capt. Richard Pickett,
Capt. Samuel Nichols,
Capt. William Titcomb,
Capt. Thomas Morrison.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT l8l
Voted to appoint a committee of five to take into considera-
tion a letter from the pilots of this harbor, and to report at the
adjourned meeting. The following members were chosen:
Capt. Joseph P. Russell,
Capt. Joseph Patch,
Capt. Amos Noyes,
Capt. William Nichols,
Capt. Samuel Nichols.
Dec. ii, 1834, voted,, to take into consideration at the next
regular meeting of this society, the expediency of altering the
sixth article of the bye-laws.
Report of finance committee :
16 shares in the Massachusets banks @ $250 $4000.00
137 shares in the Merchants bank @ $50 6850.00
6 shares in the Ocean bank @ $100 600.00
9 shares in the Mechanicks bank @ $100 900.00
30 shares in the Manufacturers bank @ $100 3000.00
Cash in treasurer's hands 110.81
$15,460.81
Deduct note 700.00
$14,760.81
Report of relief committee :
Widow of Joseph Bragdon $40
Widow of Wyatt St. Barbe 40
Widow of Alexander Livingston 40
Widow of Robert Follansbee 30
Widow of Thomas Follansbee 10
Widow of Joseph Woodman 40
Widow of Jonathan Moulton 40
Widow of Abel Lunt 30
Widow of Eben Hoyt 40
Widow of W. P. Johnson 30
Widow of Green Johnson 10
. Widow of William Pickett 30
Widow of Nathaniel Fletcher 20
Widow of Philip Aubin 20
Widow of William Nichols 20
Widow of James Meyer 15
Widow of Jonathan Titcomb 15
Capt. Sewell Toppan 20
$400
12-b
1 82 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Capt. John Wills departed this life, Jan. 12, 1835, aged 50
years, and was buried in the family tomb at the old burial place.
Feb. 26, 1835, voted, to appoint a committee of three to revise
the sixth article of the constitution and all others relating to vot-
ing by yea and nay.
Capt. Joseph P. Russell, Capt. Isaac Stone and Capt. William
Bartlett were chosen.
Capt. Benjamin Perkins departed this life on Saturday, May
23, aged 2>7 years, and was buried in his father's family tomb in the
old burying ground Monday, the 25th and 23 members of the so-
ciety attended the funeral.
May 28, 1835, voted that the secretary procure 36 balls and
the same number of cubes for the use of the society, 36 of each.
Voted, that the treasurer be authorized to dispose of 14 shares
in the Merchants bank in Newburyport, at $50 per share and to
take up the said treasurer's note against the society for $700.
Voted, that the entrance money paid by Capt. Benjamin Per-
kins, deceased, be deposited by the treasurer in the Savings bank
of Newburyport for the benefit of his surviving child, Abraham
Charles Perkins, when he arrives at the age of 21 years, and in
case of the decease of the said Abraham Charles Perkins before
he arrives at the age of 21 years, the money to revert to the so-
ciety.
Committee for altering the sixth article of the bye-laws:
We, the committee of the Newburyport Marine Society for
revising the sixth article of the bye-laws, have attended to that
duty and recommend the following in lieu of the sixth article as it
stands now in the bye-laws.
Sixth Article. That all elections for the admission of mem-
bers after the candidate is named the question of yea or nay shall
be determined by the use of balls and cubes, the balls shall desig-
nate yea and the cubes nay, and each member present shall be pro-
vided with one of each and if two-thirds of the votes shall desig-
nate yea the candidate is elected and the secretary shall give him
notice thereof, two-thirds of the votes shall be requisite for a
choice. Signed
JOSEPH P. RUSSELL,
ISAAC STONE,
WILLIAM BARTLETT.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 83
NOTE : Capt. Benjamin Perkins joined the society Nov. 27,
1834, and died May 23, 1835. Six months membership.
Aug. 27, 1835, voted, that Capt. Charles Buntin be expelled
from the society for not fulfilling the seventh article of the bye-
laws.
Nov. 26, 1835, officers elected:
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, President.
Capt. Paul Simpson, Vice President.
Capt. Charles Hodge, Secretary.
Capt. John N. Cushing, Treasurer.
Finance committee :
Capt. William Bartlett, Jr.
Capt. Isaac Stone, ,
Capt. William Nichols,
Capt. Samuel Nichols,
Capt. Amos Noyes.
Relief committee :
Capt. William Nichols,
Capt. Samuel Nichols,
Capt. William Titcomb,
Capt. Richard Pickett,
Capt. William Graves.
Voted, that the society meet at the Merrimack Hotel for the
year ensuing.
Dec 10, 1835, report of the finance committee:
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank @ $25 $4000.00
123 shares in the Merchants bank @ $50 6150.00
30 shares in the Manufacturers bank @ $100 3000.00
9 shares in the Mechanics bank @ $100 900.00
6 shares in the Ocean bank @ $100 600.00
Cash in the treasurer's hands 398.46
$15,048.46
Report of the relief committee:
Widow of Joseph Bragdon $30
Widow of Wyatt St. Barbe 40
Widow of Alexander Livingston 40
Widow of Thomas Follansbee 35
Widow of Robert Follansbee 20
Widow of Joseph Woodman 40
184 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Widow of Jonathan Moulton 40
Widow of Abel Lunt 30
Widow of Eben Hoyt 30
Widow of W. P. Johnson 30
Widow of Green Johnson 10
Widow of William Pickett 30
Widow of Philip Aubin 20
Widow of William Nichols 20
Widow of James Meyers 20
Capt. Moses Goodrich 52
$487
Nov. 24, 1836, officers chosen :
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, President.
Capt. Paul Simpson, Vice President.
Capt. John N. Cushing, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles Hodge, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. William Bartlett, Jr.,
Capt. Isaac Stone,
Capt. William Nichols,
Capt. Samuel Nichols,
Capt. Amos Noyes.
Relief committee :
Capt. Samuel Nichols,
Capt. Dennis Condrey,
Capt. Anthony Knapp,
Capt. Wilfiam A. Cheney,
Capt. Nathaniel Osgood.
Captains Eleazer Johnson, John N. Cushing, William- Nichols,
Paul Simpson and Micajah Lunt, Jr., were chosen a committee to
recommend a petition of Phineus George.
Voted, to meet at the Merrimack Hotel for the ensuing year.
Dec. 8, 1836, voted, to accept of the report of the relief com-
mittee recommending the sum of $515 be paid to the beneficiaries.
Voted, to accept 4he report of the committee on the petition
of Phineus George.
Report of the finance committee :
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank $4000.00
30 shares in the Manufacturers bank 3000.00
123 shares in the Merchants bank 6150.00
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 85
15 shares in the Mechanics bank 1500.00
6 shares in the Ocean bank 600.00
Cash in the hands of the treasurer 287.10
$i5,537io
Feb. 23, 1837, voted, that the president be a committee to
present to Capt. John T. Ross from the funds of the society, what
sum he shall judge proper and to draw upon the treasurer for the
amount.
May 25, 1837, voted, that the society approve of the arrange-
ment made with Capt. J. T. Ross by the president, he has one hun-
dred dollars loaned to him to pay if he is ever able.
Voted, that Capt. Stephen Holland be disfranchised for not
fulfilling the bye-laws of the society.
Aug. 31, 1837, voted, that the secretary for the future, notify
the members of the place and time of meeting of the society.
Voted, that the society associate themselves as a fire society
without the ceremonies.
Nov. 30, 1837, officers chosen:
Capt. Eleazer Johnson President.
Capt. Micajah Lunt, Jr., Vice President.
Capt. John N. Cushing, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles Hodge, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. William Bartlett, Jr.,
Capt. William Nichols,
Capt. Amos Noyes,
Capt. Mark Symonds,
Capt. Samuel Nichols.
Relief committee :
Capt. Mark Symonds,
Capt. John N. Cushing,
Capt. Anthony Knapp,
Capt. William A. Cheney,
Capt. Samuel Nichols.
Voted, to excuse Capt. Thomas Morrison his dues to the pres-
ent time and for the future at the pleasure of the society.
Voted, that the price of admittance into this society for the
ensuing year be $35.
1 86 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, that in case Capt. Isaac Adams does not wish to con-
tinue a member of this society, to refund the dues paid by him this
evening by Capt. Dennis Condry.
Voted, to meet at the Merrimack Hotel for the ensuing year.
Dec. 14, 1837, voted, to reconsider the vote passed at the an-
nual meeting, respecting the price of admission of members, and
that for the future the following sums be paid.
All candidates under 40 years of age $ 35
All candidates over 40 and under 50 years of age 40
All candidates over 50 and under 60 years of age 50
All candidates over 60 years of age 100
Voted, that a committee of three be appointed to report upon
a revision of the third and ninth articles of the bye-laws and to
report at a future meeting.
Capts. John N. Gushing, Mark Symonds and Dennis Condry
were chosen.
Voted, that the secretary receive fifteen dollars for his services
the ensuing year.
Voted, to accept the report of the relief committee recom-
mending the sum of $540 be paid to the beneficiaries.
Report of the finance committee.
123 shares in Merchants bank, Newburyport, $6150.00
30 shares in Manufacturers bank 3000.00
17 shares in Mechanics bank 1700.00
16 shares in Massachusetts bank 4000.00
6 shares in Ocean bank 600.00
$15,450.00
Cash in hands of treasurer 479-45
$15,929.45
May 31, 1838, voted, to excuse the committee from reporting
upon the third and ninth article of the bye-laws.
Voted, to recommend William T. Colby to the Governor and
Council as a suitable and capable person to undertake the business
of pilotage into and out of the river Merrimack according to the
petition of Moody A. Thurlow and others.
June 7, 1838, a motion was made and seconded to reconsider
the vote passed at the regular meeting in May last, respecting
recommending William T. Colby to the Governor and Council as a
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 87
suitable person for a branch pilot in and out of the river Mer-
rimack.
Voted, to amend the vote so far as to restrict his branch to all
vessels drawing ten feet of water and under.
Aug. 30, 1838, Capt. Sewell Toppan departed this life very
suddenly on Sunday, Oct. 28, 1838, and was buried on Tuesday.
Oct. 30, in the old burying ground. Twenty-five members of the
society attended his funeral.
Nov. 29, 1838, voted, to choose a committee of three to take
into consideration the letter from William T. Colby and to report
at the adjournment, when Capts. Paul Simpson, William Nichols,
and Dennis Condry were chosen.
Voted, that at all funerals of deceased members, the president
shall appoint two of the members to act as marshals in the proces-
sion.
Voted, that the secretary receive fifteen dollars for his services
for the ensuing year.
Officers chosen :
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, President.
Capt. Micajah Lunt, Jr., Vice President.
Capt. John N. Cushing, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles Hodge, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. William Nichols,
Capt. Mark Symonds,
Capt. John N. Wills,
Capt. William Bartlett, Jr.,
Capt. Samuel Nichols.
Relief committee :
Capt. Giles P. Stone,
Capt. Mark Symonds,
Capt. Samuel Boardman,
Capt. David Haskell,
Capt. Anthony Knapp.
Dec. 13, 1838, voted, to accept the report of the committee
upon the letter from William Colby and to record it.
Voted, that a copy of the report and the vote passed be pre-
sented to Mr. Colby.
We the subscribers having been appointed by the Marine So-
ciety of Newburyport to make enquiry respecting Mr. W. T.
1 88 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Colby's qualifications to take a full branch for a pilot for our har-
bor, have attended to that duty, from the best information from
those acquainted with Mr. Colby, we have no hesitation in recom-
mending him as in every way qualified to take a full branch.
Signed
PAUL SIMPSON,
WILLIAM NICHOLS,
DENNIS CONDRY.
Voted, to accept the report of the relief committee recom-
mending $575 be paid to the beneficiaries of the society.
Report of finance committee :
123 shares in Merchants bank $6150.00
20 shares in Mechanics bank 2000.00
6 shares in Ocean bank 600.00
30 shares in Manufacturers bank 3000.00
16 shares in Massachusetts bank 4000.00
Cash in hands of treasurer 395-95
$16,145-95
Feb. 28, 1839, voted, that Capt. Anthony Knapp and Capt.
Samuel Boardman, be a committee to assist and advise with Mr.
William T. Colby, respecting procuring his full branch as a pilot
into and out of the river Merrimack.
Voted, to lay the petition of N. Noyes 2nd, and others in case
of recommending Mr. Jere Lunt as a pilot, on the table.
Voted, that the secretary procure sufficient blank notifications
and draw upon the treasurer for the amount.
May 30, 1839, voted, to lay upon the table the report of the
committee chosen at the last meeting to assist Mr. W. T. Colby in
procuring a full branch as pilot in and out of the river Merrimack.
Aug. 29, 1839, voted, that Capt. Isaac Adams be disfranchised
for not fulfilling the bye-laws of the society.
Voted, to appoint a committee of three to address a respectful
letter to the Governor and Council, to be signed by the president
and secretary, requesting the appointment of W. T. Colby as a full
branch pilot for the river Merrimack, who was approbated by the
society, and a copy of this vote transmitted December, 1838.
CAPT. MICAJAH LUNT, JR.,
CAPT. ANTHONY KNAPP,
CAPT. GILES P. STONE,
Committee.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURVPORT 1 89
Voted, to appoint a committee of three of this society to so-
licit the signatures of the merchants and ship owners to a petition
in favor of the appointment of William T. Colby as a full branch
pilot for the river Merrimack, which petition be transmitted with
the letter of the society to the Governor and Council.
CAPT. ANTHONY KNAPP,
CAPT. GILES P. STONE,
CAPT. PAUL SIMPSON,
Committee.
Capt. Isaac Stone departed this life very suddenly on Satur-
day, Nov. 23, 1839, and was buried on Tuesday, Nov. 26, in the old
burying ground. Seventeen members of the society attended his
funeral. Age 71 years.
Nov. 28, 1839, voted, to meet at the Merrimack Hotel the year
ensuing.
Officers chosen :
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, President.
Capt. Micajah Lunt, Jr., Vice President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles Hodge, Secretary.
Finance committee:
Capt. William Nichols,
Capt. Samuel Boardman,
Capt. Dennis Condry,
Capt. William Bartlett, Jr.,
Capt. Samuel Nichols.
Relief committee :
Capt. Anthony Knapp,
Capt. Micajah Lunt, Jr.,
Capt. David Haskell,
Capt. Samuel Nichols,
Capt. Paul Simpson.
Report of finance committee:
123 shares in Merchants bank $6150.00
24 shares in Mechanics bank 2400.00
6 shares in Ocean bank 600.00
30 shares in Manufacturers bank 3000.00
16 shares in Massachusetts bank 4000.00
Balance in hands of treasurer 49I-04
$16,641.04
190 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Report of the relief committee:
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$495 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
Feb. 27, 1840, voted, to choose a committee of three to make
inquiry respecting recommending another pilot, and to make their
report at the adjourned meeting.
CAPT. WILLIAM NICHOLS,
CAPT. WILLIAM GRAVES,
CAPT. SAMUEL NICHOLS,
Committee.
A proposition was handed in from Capt. William Bartlett re-
specting an alteration in the bye-laws.
Voted, to lay it over till the next annual meeting.
March 5, 1840, adjourned meeting.
Voted, to accept the report of the committee appointed at the
last regular meeting, respecting recommending another pilot, to
record it and hand a copy of it to Capt. Jeremiah Lunt.
Voted, that the finance committee be empowered to purchase
stock in the Eastern Railroad as they shall think expedient and the
funds admit.
Committee's report.
We the undersigned, having been appointed by the Marine
Society of Newburyport to make inquiry respecting the ability of
Capt. Jeremiah Lunt, to take a full branch as a pilot in and out of
the river Merrimack, respectfully report that they have attended
to that duty, and from the best information from gentlemen well
acquainted with Capt. Jere Lunt, we have no hesitation in recom-
mending him as a very steady and industrious man and well quali-
fied to take a full branch as a pilot in and out of the river Merri-
mack.
May 28, 1840, voted, to lay on the table, the recommendation
of Robert Bayley and others in favor of Tristram Lunt as a pilot.
Aug. 27, 1840, voted, that the proposition handed by Capt.
Anthoney Knapp, respecting article eighth, lay over until the next
meeting.
Capt. Isaac G. Toppan departed this life on Thursday, Sept.
17, 1840, aged 34, and was buried on Saturday, Sept. 19, in the new
burying ground. Twenty-three members of the society attended
the funeral.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 191
Nov. 26, 1840, voted, that the secretary receive fifteen dollars
for his services for the year ensuing.
Voted, that article eighth be so far amended that the quarterly
dues from this date be twenty-five cents.
Voted, that article eighth be so far amended that all members
of twenty years standing and upwards, be excused from payment
of his quarterly dues.
Officers chosen:
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, President.
Capt. Micajah Lunt, Vice President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles Hodge, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. William Nichols,
Capt. Samuel Boardman,
Capt. Dennis Condry,
Capt. William Bartlett, Jr.,
Capt. Samuel Nichols.
Relief committee :
Capt. Anthony Knapp,
Capt. William Graves,
Capt. Samuel Boardman,
Capt. George Coffin,
Capt. William Williams.
Voted, to meet at the Merrimack Hotel the year ensuing.
Voted, that the secretary write to Capt. David Stickney and
to Capt. Benjamin Wyatt, informing them of the amount of their
dues and the amendment of the bye-laws.
Report of the finance committee :
123 shares in the Merchants bank $6150.00
25 shares in the Mechanics bank 2500.00
8 shares in the Ocean bank 800.00
30 shares in the Manufacturers bank 3000.00
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank 4000.00
2 shares in the Eastern railroad 200.00
Cash in hands of treasurer 401.51
$17,051.51
192 RECORDS AND HISTORY OP
Report of the relief committee:
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$550 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
Feb. 25, 1841, voted, to remit the dues of Capt. Benjamin
Wyatt and of all other members in the same situation, and that
the secretary inform them of the same and of the amendment to
article eighth.
Aug. 26, 1841, voted, to remit the fines from Capt. Thomas
Morrison and that he be excused in the future from paying any.
Voted, to postpone the consideration of the petition of Robert
Bayley and others in favor of recommending Charles Lunt of
Newbury as a pilot for a branch.
Capt. William Williams departed this life on Thursday morn-
ing, Sept. 2, 1841, aged 75 years, and was buried on Friday the
3rd, in the new burying ground, when 21 members of the society
attended the funeral.
Nov. 25 1841, voted, that Capt. Mark Symonds, William
Plummer, and George Lunt, be a committee to report at the ad-
journed meeting, a person to recommend as a pilot in and out of
the river Merrimack.
Officers chosen :
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, President.
Capt. Micajah Lunt, Vice President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles Hodge, Secretary.
Finance committee:
Capt. William Nichols,
Capt. Samuel Boardman,
Capt. Dennis Condry,
Capt. William Bartlett,
Capt. Samuel Nichols.
Relief committee:
Capt. Anthony Knapp,
Capt. George Coffin,
Capt. William Plummer,
Capt. Mark Symonds,
Capt. David Haskell,
Dec. 9, 1841, voted, to accept the report of the committee
recommending pilots.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 93
Voted, that the society approbate the petition of the pilots and
others to the legislature of Massachusetts asking the passing of a
law, which shall remedy the evils therein set forth.
Report of the finance committee:
123 shares in the Merchants bank @ 5 1-2 per cent $6150.00
25 shares in the Mechanics bank @ 5 per cent 2500.00
8 shares in the Ocean bank @ 5 per cent 800.00
30 shares in the Manufacturers bank @ 6 per cent 3000.00
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank @ 6 per cent 4000.00
5 shares in the Eastern Railroad @ 6 per cent 500.00
$17,469.41
Report of the relief committee.
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$550 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
Committee report recommending pilots:
To the President, Officers and Members of the Newburyport Ma-
rine Society:
Gentlemen : —
Your committee appointed to investigate the
claims of Messrs. Charles Lunt and George W. Knight, for recom-
mendation as pilots for this harbor, having attended to that duty,
beg leave to submit the following report.
After duly consulting the several merchants of this place re-
garding the qualifications and character of the petitioners, we
deem it advisable to approbate both candidates as there exists not
a doubt of their eligibility to fill the situation.
Respectfully yours,
MARK SYMONDS, '
GEORGE LUNT,
WILLIAM PLUMMER,
Committee.
June 21, 1842, special meeting.
Voted, to choose a committee of three to draw up a memorial
to Congress respecting the piers in Newburyport harbor, when the
following members were chosen: Captains Micajah Lunt, Mark
Symonds, and John Coffin.
Also voted, that the same committee be authorized to advise
with the Collector of Customs of this port respecting removing
and altering the light houses under the direction of the Collector
of Customs in Boston. >
13-a . . .....
i94
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
April 25, 1842, voted, that a letter from Sarah Holland be re-
ferred to a committee of three, Capts. Paul Simpson, Mark Svm-
onds, and John Coffin, to report at the next meeting.
Sept. 27, 1842, voted, to reconsider the vote disfranchising
Capt. Stephen Holland, and that he be reinstated to all the privi-
leges of a member.
Voted, to make a donation to Capt. Stephen Holland of forty
dollars, and that Capts. Paul Simpson, Mark Symonds and John
Coffin, be a committee to draw upon the treasurer for the amount
and pay it to Capt. Stephen Holland.
Nov. 24, 1842, voted, that the thanks of this society be given
to Capt. Eleazer Johnson, for the faithful services he has rendered
the society as their president, the office of which he now resigns.
Officers chosen:
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. William Nichols, Vice President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles Hodge, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Samuel Nichols,
Capt. William Bartlett,
Capt. Nathaniel Osgood,
Capt. Dennis Condry,
Capt. Mark Symonds,
Relief committee:
Capt. George Coffin,
Capt. John N. Wills,
Capt. Anthony Knapp,
Capt. Enoch Gerrish,
Capt. John Coffin.
Voted, that the treasurer be authorized to hire money suffi-
cient to meet the payments of donations.
Voted, that the finance committee be our proxy to attend the
meeting of the stockholders of the Ocean and Merchants bank,
and vote according to their discretion.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURVPORT 195
Report of the finance committee :
123 shares in the Merchants bank $6150.00
25 shares in the Mechanics bank 2500.00
8 shares in the Ocean bank 800.00
30 shares in the Manufacturers bank 3000.00
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank 4000.00
9 shares in the Eastern railroad 000.00
Cash in hands of treasurer 216.36
$17,566.36
Report of the relief committee :
Voted, that the report of the relief committee recommending
the sum of $500 be paid to the beneficiaries, be accepted.
May 25, 1843, Capts. Dennis Condry, William Nichols, and
William Le Craw, were chosen a committee to visit and examine
the life boat of Michael Pearson and to report at the next meeting.
Aug. 31, 1843, voted, that a copy of the report of the com-
mittee appointed to examine the life boat of Mr. Michael Pearson
be furnished him and recorded.
Newburyport, July 17, 1843.
We the undesigned, having been appointed a committee to
examine Mr. Michael Pearson's Life Boat, have attended to that
duty and beg leave to make the following report. The dimensions
of the boat exhibited to us was fifteen feet long, five feet wide, and
two feet deep, and when in the shape of a boat fit for use, occupy-
ing a space of one hundred and fifty square feet and capable of
carrying with apparent safety, four tons weight, and the experi-
ment satisfied your committee that it would be very difficult if not
impracticable to capsize her while in the water, and your commit-
tee are further of opinion that this boat is peculiarly adapted to
cases of emergency such as frequently happen to steamboat navi-
tion, and had that ill-fated boat, The Lexington, been provided
with five or six such boats, which would occupy no more space
than one of Francis' Life Boats, most if not all the passengers and
crew of that boat would have been saved. Your committee find
it difficult to convey an idea of this boat in language. Diagrams
or a model are necessary to a just conception of this novel inven-
tion. Your committee would add in conclusion that in recommend-
ing this boat to the notice of the society that she may be put into
I96 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
the water in two minutes in a proper condition for use by two able
bodied men.
Signed.
DENNIS CONDRY,
WILLIAM NICHOLS,
WILLIAM LE CRAW,
Committee.
Nov. 30, 1843, voted, that the sum of $20 be placed in the
hands of Mr. Jonathan Boardman by the relief committee, to be
appropriated to the funeral charges of Capt. Moses Goodrich, the
balance (if any) to be paid to his widow.
Officers chosen:
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. William Nichols, Vice President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles Hodge, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Samuel Nichols,
Capt. Dennis Condry,
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood,
Capt. Mark Symonds,
Capt. William Bartlett.
Relief committee:
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood,
Capt. John Coffin,
Capt. William Plummer,
Capt. Anthony Knapp,
Capt. Giles P. Stone.
Capt. Moses Goodrich departed this life on Wednesday, Nov.
29, 1843, aged 77 years, and was buried on Friday, Dec. I, 1843, m
the new burying ground, 21 members of the society attending the
funeral.
Dec. 7, 1843, voted, that Capts. N. S. Osgood, Giles P. Stone
and John N. Wills, be a committee to ascertain the time and place
of the death of deceased members.
Voted, that the thanks of the society be given to Capt. N. S.
Osgood for his examination of the books of record and informa-
tion communicated.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 97
Report of the finance committee:
123 shares in the Merchants bank $6150.00
25 shares in the Mechanics bank 2500.00
8 shares in the Ocean bank 800.00
30 shares in the Manufacturers bank 3000.00
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank 4000.00
9 shares in the Eastern railroad 900.00
Cash in hands of treasurer 236.41
$17,586.41
Report of the relief committee :
The committee on relief of the beneficiaries of the society
recommend that the sum of $485 be distributed.
The report of the committee was accepted.
Feb. 29, 1844, voted, that the secretary have the society's chest
painted and lettered and draw upon the treasurer for the amount.
Voted, that Capt. Enoch Gerrish be a committee to wait upon
the widow of the late Isaac G. Tappan respecting refunding her
husband's entrance money and to report at our next meeting.
Capt. Jeremiah Young departed this life on Thursday, April
18, 1844, and was buried on Saturday, April 20, in the new burying
ground, aged 74 years, 16 members of the society attending the
funeral.
May 30, 1844, Capt. Enoch Gerrish made a verbal report re-
specting the widow of Capt. Isaac G. Tappan. Voted to refer it
to the financial committee.
On motion made by William Bartlett and seconded by Giles P.
Stone, voted, that the last clause of the 12th article of the bye-laws
which reads "first consulting the society at one of their regular
meetings and acting under these directions" be and is hereby re-
pealed.
Voted, that the secretary get fifty copies of the diplomas
struck off and draw upon the treasurer for the expense.
Capt. William Titcomb departed this life on Thursday, Aug. I.
1844, aged 52 years, and was buried on Friday the 2nd of August,
in the new burying ground, 22 members of the society attending
the funeral.
Aug. 29, 1844, voted to choose a committee of two to investi-
gate and inquire into the character and capacity of Capt. Mayo
Gerrish, as a pilot, and to report at the next meeting. Captains N.
S. Osgood and Mark Symonds were chosen.
13-b
198 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, that the relief committee be authorized to pay or with-
hold the pension of the late Mrs. St. Barbe, for the quarter ending
this date, as circumstances may appear upon investigation.
Voted, that the money paid by the relief committee to the
widow of the late Capt. William Titcomb, be charged to the so-
ciety, and his dues unpaid be remitted.
Nov. 28, 1844, voted, that the 12th article of the bye-laws be
so far altered that the financial committee have power to invest
the funds of the society in any way that they see proper, with-
out first consulting the society.
Voted, that the report of the committee appointed at the last
meeting to make enquiries respecting Mayo Gerrish, a pilot, be
taken up at the adjourned meeting.
Officers chosen:
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. William Nichols, Vice President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles Hodge, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Mark Symonds,
Capt. Samuel Nichols,
Capt. William Bartlett,
Capt. John N. Wills ,
Capt. Eleazer Johnson.
Relief committee :
Capt. William Plummer,
Capt. Anthony Knapp,
Capt. Giles P. Stone,
Capt. John N. Wills,
Capt. George Lunt.
Dec. 12, 1844, voted, that the consideration of the report of
the committee respecting Mayo Gerrish, the pilot, be deferred to
the next quarterly meeting, and that the secretary give him notice
thereof.
Voted, that the vote on the 12th article taken on the 28th of
November last, be and is hereby annulled.
Voted, that the vote taken May 30th, 1844, to repeal the last
clause of the 12th article of the bye-laws, be and is hereby re-
pealed.
100
2500.00
400.00
@ $100
3000.00
000.00
1845.00
4000.00
807.32
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 1 99
Dec. 4, 1844, report of the finance committee :
123 shares in Merchants bank @ $35 $4305.00
25 shares in Mechanics bank (
8 shares in Ocean bank @ 50
30 shares in Manufacturers bank
9 shares Eastern railroad @ $100
Town of Newburyport, note
16 shares Massachusetts bank
Cash in hands of treasurer
$17,757-32
Report of relief committee :
The committee on relief recommend the sum of $500 be paid
to the beneficiaries. The report and recommendations were ac-
cepted.
Feb. 27, 1845, voted, that the relief committee make enquiries
respecting the funeral expenses of the late Mrs. Charles Goodrich
and pay them if they find it expedient.
Voted, that the report of the committee on the case of Capt.
Mayhew Gerrish, be laid over until the next regular meeting, and
that Capt. Gerrish be requested to make a statement in writing of
his case to the society at the next regular meeting, and that the
secretary inform Capt. Gerrish of the foregoing vote.
Voted, that a committee of two be chosen to enquire into the
conduct of the pilots of this port, with regard to their leaving the
pilot ground for other purposes than exercising their calling.
Capts. Ambrose H. White and George Lunt were chosen.
Capt. William Plummer departed this life on Wednesday,
April 9, 1845, aged 41 years, and was buried on Thursday, April
10, in the Cemetery, 18 members of the society attending the fu-
neral.
May 29, 1845, voted, that the report of the committee on pilots
be accepted. Capt. Mayo Gerrish's letter to the society was read
and it was voted that the documents in the case be filed for future
reference.
Aug. 28, 1845, voted, that the financial committee be requested
to call on the selectmen to see if they will allow the society 5 per
cent, on the money in their hands, and if not, the committee are
requested to take up the money and invest it in railroad stock or
some other good security.
200 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, to accept the petition of Robert Bayley and others, ap-
probating William James Lunt to the Governor and Council as a
branch pilot in and out of the river Merrimack.
Voted, that at the time of approbating William James Lunt as
a pilot to the executive, a representation be made to the executive,
that Charles Lunt and George W. Knight have left the business
of piloting and request that their commissions be revoked.
Copy of a petition to His Excellency the Governor and Coun-
cil respecting pilots:
The Marine Society of Newburyport respectfully represents
that at one of their regular meetings held in Newburyport on the
28th of August, 1845, upon the petition of Robert Bayley and
otner merchants, setting forth that another branch pilot was neces-
sary, and recommending William James Lunt as well qualified to
receive a branch, having served six years with one of the branch
pilots of this port, it was voted to recommend and approbate said
William James Lunt to the Executive and Honorable Council, and
request that he be commissioned as a full branch pilot for this port
and harbor. It was also voted, that inasmuch as Messrs. Charles
Lunt and George W. Knight, branch pilots of this port, have for
more than six months absented themselves from their duty with-
out having surrendered their commissions, both being employed
on foreign voyages as ship masters, having voluntarily relinquished
the business and expressed when called upon by a committee of
this society no intention of returning to their duty, the Executive
and Honorable Council be requested to revoke their commissions.
Signed.
MICAJAH LUNT, President,
CHARLES HODGE, Secretary.
Nov. 27, 1845, officers chosen:
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. William Nichols, Vice President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles Hodge, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Mark Symonds,
Capt. Samuel Nichols,
Capt. William Bartlett,
Capt. John N. Wills,
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 201
Relief committee :
Capt. Anthony Knapp,
Capt. William Le Craw,
Capt. John N. Wills,
Capt Isaac S. Coffin,
Capt. Daniel Knight.
Voted, that this society approbate Joseph A. Somerby as a
branch pilot for this port upon the petition of William Davis and
others.
Voted, that Captains Mark Symonds and Nathaniel S. Os-
good, be a committee to wait upon Capt. Jere Lunt and request
him to surrender his branch as pilot, he having taken command of
steamer Decature.
Voted, that Captains Micajah Lunt, Mark Symonds and
Charles Hodge be a committee to revise the bye-laws and get ioo
books printed.
Voted, to meet at the Merrimack Hotel the year ensuing.
Dec. ii, 1845, voted, to accept the report of the committee
of relief with the addition of $10 to the widow Bragdon and $15 to
the widow of William Titcomb.
Voted, that all donations of $20 and under be paid immedi-
ately ; over $20 and not exceeding $50, semi-annual ; over $50
quarterly.
Voted, that the vote respecting Capt. Jere Lunt be laid over
till the next regular meeting.
Report of the finance committee :
123 shares in Merchants bank $4305.00
25 shares in Mechanics bank 2500.00
8 shares in Ocean bank 400.00
30 shares in Manufacturers bank 3000.00
16 shares in Massachusetts bank 4000.00
11 shares in Eastern railroad 1 100.00
6 shares in Portsmouth, Saco and Portland railroad 600.00
Note of town of Newburyport 1800.00
Interest on note, Sept. 3 to Dec. 3 at 5 per cent 22.50
Cash in hands of treasurer 618.27
$18,34577
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$750 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
202 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Capt. Hector Coffin departed this life on Monday, Jan. 5,
1846, aged 63 years, and was buried on Thursday, Jan. 8, at the
Oldtown burying ground, 22 members of the society attending the
funeral.
Feb. 26, 1846, voted, that the business relating to Jere Lunt.
the pilot, be postponed until the next meeting.
Capt. William Bartlett proposed to the society the following
motion, viz: that the annual meeting of the society be changed
from the last Thursday evening in November to the first Thursday
evening in November, and that the meetings in February, May
and August be altered from the last to the first Thursday evenings
in those months.
Voted, that the above lay on file till the next annual meeting.
May 28, 1846, voted, that Benjamin Lunt be approbated by
this society as a full branch pilot for this port, recommended by
Charles J. Brockway and others.
Voted, that the secretary notify Jeremiah Lunt to surrender
his branch as pilot of this port within 15 days and if not done within
that time, then the Governor and Council to be requested to can-
cel said branch, according to the usual mode in such cases.
Newburyport, May 29, 1846.
To His Excellency Governor Briggs and the Honorable Council
of the State of Massachusetts :
Greeting :
The Marine Society of Newburyport respectfully
represents, that at a regular meeting held in Newburyport, on the
28th of May, 1846, upon the petition of Charles J. Brockway and
others, merchants of Newburyport and vicinity, asking the appro-
bation of Mr. Benjamin Lunt as a full branch pilot for this port,
after some discussion of the merits of the candidate, it was unani-
mously voted, to recommend and approbate said Benjamin Lunt
to the Executive and Honorable Council, and request that he be
commissioned as a full branch pilot for this port and harbor.
Signed.
MICAJAH LUNT, President.
CHARLES HODGE, Secretary.
Aug. 27, 1846, voted, that the secretary inform Capt. Nathan-
iel Nowell by letter, the amount of his dues, etc.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 203
Capt. Jeremiah L,unt has surrendered his branch as pilot to
the secretary, according to a vote passed at the last meeting of
this society.
Nov. 26, 1846, a motion was made that the hour of the meet-
ing of the society be altered to 7 o'clock the year round.
Voted, that the above lay on file till the next annual meeting.
Voted, that the meeting of the members of this society be al-
tered from the last to the first Thursday of February, May,
August and November.
Voted, that the secretary receive $15 for his services the en-
suing year.
Officers elected:
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Vice President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles Hodge, Secretary.
Finance committee:
Capt. Samuel Nichols,
Capt. William Bartlet,
Capt. John N. Wills,
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood,
Capt. William Graves.
Relief committee :
Capt. Henry Shoof,
Capt. John N. Wills,
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood,
Capt. Edmund Pike,
Capt. Benjamin Peirce.
Membership fee, $35.
Dec. 10, 1846, the motion of Capt. William Bartlet submitted
to the society Feb. 26, 1846, to alter the days of the meeting of the
members, not receiving two-thirds of the votes of the members
present agreeable to the bye-laws, did not prevail and the vote re-
corded as passed at the annual meeting was therefore illegal.
Voted, that the 13th and 14th articles of the bye-laws be re-
ferred to a committee to examine if they conflict with each other
and to report at the quarterly meeting, previous to the next annual
J04 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
meeting, what alterations or amendments may be made to carry
out the objects of the society.
CAPT. WILLIAM BARTLET,
CAPT. NATHANIEL S. OSGOOD,
CAPT. WILLIAM LE CRAW,
Committee.
Report of the finance committee :
123 shares in Merchants bank $4305.00
25 shares in Mechanics bank 2500.00
8 shares in Ocean bank 400.00
30 shares in Manufacturers bank 3000.00
16 shares in Massachusetts bank 4000.00
11 shares in Eastern railroad 1100.00
6 shares in Portsmouth, Saco and Portland railroad 600.00
Note of town of Newburyport 1800.00
2 receipts for instalments paid on Eastern railroad stock 200.00
Cash in hands of treasurer 660.27
$18,565.27
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$795 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
Capt. Richard Pickett departed this life on Friday, Jan 1,
1847, aged 59 years, and was buried on Monday, Jan. 4, at the new
burial ground, 18 members of the society attending the funeral.
Feb. 25, 1847, voted, that the relief committee be requested to
enquire into the circumstances of the late Capt. Richard Pickett
and ascertain if he has left sufficient property to pay his funeral
expenses and report to the society at their next meeting.
May 27, 1847, Capt. Henry Shoof of the relief committee re-
ported that he had called on Miss Picket in accordance with the
vote at the last meeting, who stated that the funeral expenses
were paid and that she needed no further assistance.
A letter was received by the president from Mrs. T. L. Picket,
requesting relief as widow of the late Capt. Richard Picket.
Voted, to lay it on the table.
Capt., Eleazer Johnson departed this life on Monday, June 7,
1847, aged 74 years, and was buried on Wednesday, June 9, at the
old burying ground, 21 members of the society attending the
funeral.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 205
June 15, 1847, voted, that the financial committee have full
power to dispose of the 30 shares in the Manufacturers bank at
Saco, or any part thereof if they should deem it for the interest of
the society.
Voted, that the proper officers of the society be authorized to
make the transfer of said stock in case of sale, under the authority
of the preceding vote.
Aug. 26, 1847, voted, that the financial committee be author-
ized to attend (by deputy) at the annual meeting or special meet-
ing of any corporation in which the Marine Society is interested,
and they have full power to represent said stock.
Voted, that the report of the committee respecting the 13th
and 14th articles of the bye-laws be laid over to the annual meet-
ing.
On motion of Capt. William Bartlet, that the bye-laws be al-
tered so far, that the regular meetings of the society be changed
from the third to the first Thursday in the month. Referred to the
annual meeting.
Capt. William H. Hunt departed this life on Monday, Sept. 13,
1847, aged 45 years, and was buried on Tuesday, Sept. 14, at the
Old Burying Ground, 17 members of the society attending the
funeral.
Nov. 25, 1847, officers chosen :
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Vice President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles Hodge, Secretary.
Finance committee:
Capt. William Bartlet,
Capt. William Graves,
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood,
Capt. Henry Shoof,
Capt. Edmund Pike.
Relief committee:
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood,
Capt. John N. Wills,
Capt. Robert H. Pearson,
Capt. Isaac N. Knap,
Capt. William Graves, Jr.
206 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, that the fee for membership be $35.
Voted, that the secretary receive $15 for his services.
Voted unanimously, to admit Capt. Alexander Graves, Joshua
Hale and Moses Brown, as members of this society.
Dec. 9, 1847, voted, to take from the table the application of
the widow of Capt. Richard Picket.
Voted, to refer said application to the relief committee with
liberty to assist her to an amount not exceeding $50 if they deem
it necessary.
Voted, that the relief committee be authorized to grant tem-
porary relief not exceeding $25 in any one case, having previously
obtained the sanction of the president of the society.
On motion of Capt. William Bartlet to alter the days of meet-
ing, it was voted not to alter.
Voted, that the finance committee be authorized to sell one-
half of the stock in the Massachusetts bank of Boston, and one-
half of the stock in the Merchants bank of Newburyport, when-
ever an opportunity offers of doing so to advantage, and reinvest-
ing in public securities, say United States, Massachusetts or Bos-
ton City stocks, and in case of sale of either of the above named
bank stocks, the proper officers of this society are hereby author-
ized and instructed to make the transfer required.
Report of the finance committee :
123 shares in the Merchants bank $4305.00
25 shares in the Mechanics bank 2500.00
8 shares in the Ocean bank 400.00
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank 4000.00
22 shares in Eastern railroad 2200.00
6 shares in the Portsmouth, Saco & Portland railroad 600.00
9 shares m the Boston & Worcester railroad 000.00
2 shares in the Boston & Lowell railroad @ $500 1000.00
Note of the town of Newburyport 1800.00
Cash in hands of treasurer 656.75
$18,361.75
Voted, that the report of the relief committee recommending
the sum of $604 be paid to the beneficiaries be accepted.
May 25, 1848, voted, on motion of Capt. William Bartlet, that
the bye-laws respecting the meetings of the society be altered, re-
ferred to the next annual meeting.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 207
Nov. 30, 1848, officers chosen :
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Vice President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Treasurer.
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood, Secretary.
Voted, that the thanks of this society be presented to Capt.
Charles Hodge, for sixteen years faithful service as secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. William Bartlett,
Capt. William Graves,
Capt. Edmund Pike,
Capt. Joshua Hale,
Capt. Robert H. Pearson.
Relief committee :
Capt. John N. Wills,
Capt. William Graves, Jr.,
Capt. Moses Brown,
Capt. John Simpson,
Capt. Timothy Young.
Voted, that we approbate the payment of $27.75 by the com-
mittee of relief, to the widow of Capt. Robert Follansbee, during
her last sickness.
Voted, that $35 be paid for the nursing of Mrs. Follansbee
during her last sickness.
A communication from Robert Bayley & Sons in reference to
the pilots in the case of Bark Panchita, was referred to a commit-
tee consisting of Captains E. Pike, Mark Symonds and William
Graves, to report at an adjourned meeting.
Dec. 14, 1848, report of the finance committee :
108 shares in Merchants bank stock $3780.00
25 shares in Mechanics bank stock 2500.00
8 shares in Ocean bank stock 400.00
16 shares in Massachusetts bank stock 4000.00
22 shares in Eastern railroad stock 2200.00
6 shares in Portland, Saco & Portsmouth railroad 600.00
15 shares in Boston & Worcester railroad 1500.00
2 shares in Boston & Lowell railroad 1000.00
Note of the town of Newburyport 1800.00
1 certificate of Boston City stock 500.00
Cash in hands of treasurer 574-38
$18,554.38
208 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, that the report of the finance committee be accepted.
Report of the relief committee. Voted, that the report of the
relief committee recommending that the sum of $718 be paid to
the beneficiaries, was accepted.
The motion of Capt. William Bartlett that the bye-laws re-
specting the time of meeting, be altered from the last to the first
Thursday of the month was now put, and it was voted not to make
the alteration by a vote of 12 to 5.
Voted, to accept the report of the committee to whom was
referred the communication of Robert Bayley & Son, respecting
the pilots of this harbor.
Voted, that provided the pilots make the arrangement imme-
diately as stated in their letter, such arrangement will meet the ap-
probation of this society, otherwise the society will deem it neces-
sary to take some further action in the matter.
Voted, that the secretary send the pilots a copy of the above
vote and report the doings of the society to Capt. Bayley.
Capt. John N. Cushing departed this life on Friday, Jan. 5,
1849, at 4 o'clock a. m., aged 69 years, 8 months, and was buried
on Saturday, Jan. 6, in the New Burial Ground, 17 members of the
society attending his funeral.
Extract from the Newburyport Herald, Jan. II, 1849:
Died: In St. Louis County, Missouri, Oct. 31, 1848, Capt.
John T. Ross, formerly of Newburyport, aged 74 years.
Capt. David Stickney departed this life at New Orleans, Fri-
day Jan. 5, 1849, aged 50 years.
Voted, that Capt. Robert Bayley, Capt. Charles M. Bayley,
Capt. Henry Cook, stand as candidates for admission into this
society.
On motion of Capt. William Bartlett, it was voted, that the
President, Vice President and Treasurer, together with the financial
committee be a committee to look out for the purchase of a build-
ing suitable for the society to hold their meetings in, and if such
suitable building can be found, and the society decide to purchase,
that the 12th article of the bye-laws be so altered at the annual
meeting as to allow such a part of the funds to be withdrawn from
the public funds as will be sufficient to purchase and fit up the same
in a suitable manner.
Newburyport, Feb. 22, 1849.
NATHANIEL S. OSGOOD, Secretary.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 209
The secretary has deposited the society's records in the vault
of the Merchants bank for safe keeping, said records are en-
veloped in paper and waxed cloth, sealed and marked, "Marine
Society Records. Special Deposit."
May 31, 1849, Capt. William Bartlett gave notice of his in-
tention to move for an alteration of the bye-laws at the annual
meeting.
"Moved that the bye-laws be so altered that the meetings of
the Newburyport Marine Society be changed from the last Thurs-
day evenings of November, February, May, and August, to the
first Thursday evenings of November, May, February, and
August, and that the hours of meeting be 7 o'clock instead of 6
o'clock on the evenings of November and February, and 8 instead
of 7 o'clock on the evenings of May and August."
Capt. Jeremiah N. Jaques was accidentally killed by the East-
ern railroad cars at 6 o'clock in the morning of July 30, 1849, an<^
was buried from St. Paul's church at 5 p. m., on the same day in
the old burial ground. Born Jan. 22, 1799, aged 50 years, 2^
members of the society attending his funeral.
Aug. 30, 1849, Merrimack Hotel.
A petition for the removal of Joseph Lunt, pilot, signed by
sundry individual merchants and others, was read by the president.
No specific charge being made in the petition, Capt. N. S. Osgood
made direct charges and the whole subject was then referred to a
committee of three, viz: Capt. Isaac S. Coffin, Capt. William
. Le Craw and Capt. William Graves, to report at a special meeting
if they deem it expedient.
Nov. 29, 1849, Merrimack Hotel, officers chosen :
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Vice President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Treasurer.
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood, Secretary.
Finance committee:
Capt. William Bartlett,
Capt. William Graves,
Capt. Joshua Hale,
Capt. John N. Wills,
Capt. William Graves, Jr.
14-a
2IO RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Relief committee :
Capt. Dennis Condry,
Capt. Anthony Knapp,
Capt. George Lunt,
Capt. William Graves, Jr.,
Cap. William A. Cheney.
Captains Robert Bayley, Jr., Charles M. Bayley and Henry
Cook were admitted as members.
Voted that the admittance fee be $35 for the ensuing year.
The motion of Capt. William Bartlett made May 31st, 1849,
respecting an alteration in the bye-laws, was now taken up and
divided, the first clause recommending an alteration in the day of
meeting was rejected by a vote of 17 to 2. The second part recom-
mending an alteration in the hour of meeting was also rejected 10
to 9.
The report of the committee on pilots was taken up and after
being read was laid on the table for action at the adjourned meet-
ing.
Dec. 13, 1849, the report of the finance committee that the
stocks and notes of the society amounted to $19,311.15.
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$844 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
The report of the committee on pilots was taken from the
table and it was voted to accept the report, and any further action
on the subject be indefinitely postponed.
May 30, 1850, Capt. William Bartlett moved for an alteration
in the bye laws respecting the time and hour of meeting, which
was laid on the table to be taken up at the annual meeting.
Aug. 29, 1850, a petition from the merchants was read re-
questing the society to recommend Capt. Ebenezer Ames to the
Governor and Council as a pilot, which was referred to a commit-
tee of three, viz: Captains Isaac S. Coffin, Samuel Knapp and
William Graves, Jr.
Capt. Abraham Wheelwright departed this life Oct. 14, 1850,
aged 93 years, and was buried Oct. 16th, at Oak Hill cemetery, 17
members of the society attending his funeral.
Capt. Zebulon Titcomb departed this life Nov. 12, 1850, aged
62 years, and was buried Nov. 14, in the new burial ground, 18
members of the society attending his funeral.
I t t 1 t I
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 211
Nov. 28, 1850, Merrimack Hotel, officers chosen:
Caot Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Vice President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Treasurer.
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood, Secretary.
Voted, that the admittance fee for the ensuing year be $35.
Finance committee:
Capt. William Bartlett,
Capt. William Graves,
Capt. Joshua Hale,
Capt. William Graves, Jr.,
Capt. Edmund Pike.
Relief committee :
Capt. William Graves, Jr.,
Capt. Charles M. Bayley,
Capt. Robert Bayley, Jr.,
Capt. Joshua Hale,
Capt. Stephen P. Bray.
Voted, that the 12th article of the bye-laws be so altered as
to allow the finance committee to invest in real estate, a sum suffi-
cient to purchase and fit up a building suitable for the society to
hold their meetings in.
On inquiry of the treasurer "what shall be done with the note
of the town of Newburyport now due," he was instructed by vote
of the society to collect the same unless the town agrees to renew
at 6 per cent interest, and the finance committee to invest the
amount in public stocks and securities.
The motion of Capt. William Bartlett of May 30, was taken
from the table and that part referring to the day of meeting was
withdrawn by Capt. Bartlett, the question of altering the hour be-
ing considered, was put and decided in the negative, 6 to II.
The report of the committee on the petition of the merchants
and others recommending Ebenezer Ames as a pilot, was read, ac-
cepted and placed on file.
Dec. 12, 1850, on motion of Capt. Osgood, it was voted that
all members of this society of twenty years standing, who are 70
years of age and upwards, be excused from all fines now due and
21 a RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
from all fines in future for non-attendance at meetings or funerals.
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$752 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
The widow of Capt. Jonathan Titcomb being entitled to tem-
porary relief only, your committee have assigned her the same
amount as was paid last year, but would recommend an especial
appropriation in her behalf of a sum not exceeding the highest
paid, say $80. She is 84 years of age, has lost her mind entirely
and is almost helpless and dependent entirely upon her daughter
who takes care of her, their only pecuniary means beside the sum
allowed them by the society as far as your committee have been
able to learn, is some trifling assistance from her son.
WILLIAM GRAVES, JR.,
JOSHUA HALE,
ROBERT BAYLEY, JR.,
CHARLES M. BAYLEY,
STEPHEN P. BRAY.
Report of the finance committee :
108 shares Merchants bank par $3780.00
25 shares Mechanics bank 2500.00
8 shares Ocean bank 400.00
16 shares Massachusetts bank 4000.00
22 shares Eastern railroad 2200.00
6 shares P. S. & P. railroad " 600.00
16 shares Boston & Worcester railroad 1600.00
2 shares Boston & Lowell railroad 1000.00
6 shares Boston & Maine railroad 600.00
1 certificate city stock 500.00
1 note town of Newburyport " 1800.00
Cash in hands of treasurer " 831.40
$19,811-40
Voted, that the report of the finance committee be accepted.
Capt. Benjamin Wyatt departed this life March 31, 1851, at
Cambridge, Mass., aged 89.
Capt. Enoch Gerrish departed this life, April 3, 1851, at his
residence, Kent street, Newburyport, and was buried May 10th,
ground at Oldtown, aged 64, 16 members of this society attending
the funeral.
Capt. Thomas Morrison departed this life May 8, 1851, at his
residence, Kent street, Newburyport, and was buried May 10th,
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 213
in the new burying ground, aged 80 years, 4 months, 17 members
of this society attending the funeral.
Capt. William Graves died suddenly between 8 and 9 Tuesday
evening of disease of the heart, and was buried in the Cemetery
Thursday, May 29, 1851, aged 66 years, 20 members of the so-
ciety attending his funeral.
May 29, 1 85 1, the committee who were instructed at the an-
nual meeting to look out for and purchase a building suitable for
the society to hold its meetings in, reported that they had pur-
chased a three story store on State street belonging to the estate
of Abraham Wheelwright, for which they had paid $3000 and that
the lower part of the said building was leased for $185 per year.
Voted, that the society approve of the doings of the commit-
tee and ratify the purchase.
The same committee report also that measures have been
taken to repair and fix up the second and third stories of said
building for the meetings of the society.
Upon the motion of Capt. Isaac Coffin, it was voted that the
committee aforementioned, be and hereby are authorized, to fit up
and furnish the second and third stories and complete the whole in
such manner and style as they may deem expedient.
The secretary by a vote was authorized to procure 500 or 1000
cards and envelopes for notices of funerals.
The secretary reported the non-payment of the dues of Capt.
Isaac N. Knapp, and it was voted that the secretary notify Capt.
Knapp to pay up his dues.
It was also reported by the committee on buildings that the
following named stocks had been sold to pay for the store afore-
mentioned, viz:
12 shares Portland & Saco railroad @ $100 $1200.00
8 shares Ocean bank @ 65 1-2 524-00
3 shares Mechanics bank @ 94.50 283.50
4 shares Mechanics bank @ 94.25 377-0°
8 shares Merchants bank @ 37.37 299.00
$2683.50
Charges 9-88
$2673.62
Balance paid by treasurer 326.38
Newburyport, May 29, 1851. $3000.00
14-b
214 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Aug. 28, 185 1, the secretary reported that in accordance with
his instructions he had notified Capt. Knapp, and that he had re-
ceived an answer from him requesting leave to withdraw from the
society
Capt. Knapp's letter being read, it was voted that Capt. Isaac
N. Knapp's connection with this society be dissolved according to
his request, and that his unpaid dues be remitted up to this date.
A motion was read by Capt. William Bartlett for an alteration
of the bye-laws in regard to the hour of meeting, and it was voted
to lay the same on the table for consideration at the annual meet-
ing.
Captains Andrew Miltimore and Moses J. Mulliken were
nominated by Capt. Micajah Lunt as candidates for membership
into the society.
It was moved for consideration at the annual meeting by
Capt. Isaac S. Coffin, that the bye-laws be so altered as to allow
supercargoes to be members of this society.
It was voted that the finance committee be authorized to sell
such a part of the stocks of this society as will be necessary to pay
the expenses of fitting up the rooms of the society, and that from
the proceeds the treasurer be authorized to pay such bills as may
be approved by the committee on building and repairs.
Voted, that the secretary be requested to notify the members
to meet at their rooms when completed for the purpose of dedica-
tion.
Voted, that the relief committee be justified in paying the May
quarterly pension of Capt. Enoch Gerrish (deceased) to his widow,
and they be authorized to pay the August quarterly pension to the
widow Gerrish, if they may think it expedient.
Capt. Nathaniel Nowell departed this life at San Francisco,
California, on the 27th day of July, 1851, aged 53 years and 6
months.
Nov. 27, 185 1, annual meeting held in their new hall, 25 mem-
bers present. Officers chosen:
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Vice President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Treasurer.
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood, Secretary.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 215
Finance committee :
Capt. William Bartlett,
Capt. Dennis Condry,
Capt. Charles M. Bayley,
Capt. William Le Craw,
Capt. Timothy Young.
Relief committee :
Capt. William Graves,
Capt. William A. Cheney,
Capt. Henry Shoof,
Capt. Robert Bayley, Jr.,
Capt. David Haskell.
Voted, unanimously, to admit Captains Andrew Miltimore
and Moses J. Mulliken as members of this society.
Voted, that the admission fee be $35 for the year ensuing.
The motion of Capt. William Bartlett in August last, for an
alteration of the bye-laws respecting the hour of meeting was
taken up, 23 persons being present and 12 only in favor, the mo-
tion was lost.
Capt. William Bartlett moved a reconsideration on the
ground that the motion was not fully understood on the second
trial, 23 persons being present, 15 voted in favor, the motion was
lost. Capt. Bayley moved a reconsideration on the ground that
one person had inadvertently voted on the wrong side.
The question was again tried, the president having requested
every gentleman to vote, and it was found that 17 were in favor,
that number being two-thirds of the members present, it was de-
cided therefore that so much of the second article of the bye-laws
as directs that "the meetings are to be opened by the presiding
officer at 6 o'cock p. m., from the 21st day of September to the
2 1st day of March and at all other times of the year at 7 o'clock
p. m., precisely," be amended by substituting the words 7 o'clock
p. m., from the 21st of September to the 21st of March, and 8
o'clock p. m., at all other times of the year.
On motion of Capt. Isaac Coffin in August last for an altera-
tion of the bye-laws, so that supercargoes may be admitted
members of this society, was taken up and on the ballot being
counted 23 persons being present, it was found that three had
2l6 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
voted in favor of the motion and twenty against it, and the motion
was lost.
Voted, that either of the officers of the society be authorized
to purchase a suitable safe whenever they can do so at a moderate
price.
Voted, that the secretary be authorized to employ some per-
son to clean and light the hall as may be required.
Capt. Thomas A. Smith departed this life Dec. 10, 185 1, aged
56 years, at his residence, High street, and was buried Dec. II, in
the tomb at the Old Burial Ground, 24 members of the society at-
tending his funeral.
Dec. 11, 1851, report of the finance committee:
100 shares in the Merchants bank $3500.00
18 shares in the Mechanics bank 1800.00
16 shares in the Massachusetts bank 4000.00
22 shares in the Eastern railroad 2200.00
20 shares in the P. S. P. railroad 2000.00
16 shares in the Boston & Worcester railroad 1600.00
6 shares in the Boston & Maine railroad 600.00
2 shares in the Boston & Lowell railroad 1000.00
1 certificate City of Boston stock 500.00
$17,200.00
One brick store on State street.
WILLIAM BARTLETT,
CHARLES M. BAYLEY,
TIMOTHY YOUNG,
Committee.
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$724 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
Voted, that the treasurer be authorized to hire such sums as
may be necessary to meet the quarterly payments.
Voted, that the officers of this society be a committee to take
into consideration the inefficiency of the lights at the entrance of
this harbor as a guide over the bar, and report the same to Mr.
Greeley, collector of Boston.
A communication from Mrs. Hoyt in behalf of her sister, Mrs.
Thomas Smith, was read and it was moved by Capt. Le Craw and
voted unanimously that the committee of relief be authorized to
pay to the widow of Capt. Smith a sum not exceeding $50 at such
times as they may think proper previous to the next annual meet-
ing.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT
217
Capt. Joseph P. Russell departed this life April 26, 1852 at his
residence on Lime street, aged 83 years, and was buried April 28,
on top of the Old Burial Ground, 20 members of the society at-
tending his funeral.
May 27, 1852, voted, that from the bequest of Capt. Russell,
the society pay their note at the Savings bank.
Voted, that a record of the munificent bequest of Capt. Joseph
P. Russell be recorded in the books, and a committee be chosen to
have a record handsomely prepared to hang in the hall and Capt's.
Osgood, Lunt and Graves were appointed.
Copy of framed record in the hall.
CT^
=DQ=
^
Bequest.
Capt. Joseph P. Russell,
for 28 years
a member of the Marine Society,
died April 26th, 1852, aged 83 years,
bequeathed to the Funds of the
Society
the sum of 2000 dollars.
XL*
XXT
^3
On motion of Capt. William Bartlett it was voted unanimously
that the balance of the pension to the widow of Jonathan Titcomb
(deceased) be paid to her daughter as a token of respect for filial
care of her aged mother.
The subject of the Piers was discussed and Capt. Charles M.
Bayley consented to get up a petition to Congress on the subject.
The secretary was directed to procure a suitable covering for
the chandelier, and draw upon the treasurer for the expense.
21 8 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Aug. 26, 1852, on the subject of introducing gas into the so-
ciety's store, it was voted to adopt the same plan as the other
owners of stores in the block, and that Capt. Micajah Lunt be a
committee to attend to the same and also to close up the large
door belonging and owned jointly with Mr. Kimball, and he is au-
thorized to draw on the treasurer for a sum sufficient to pay the
expense.
Voted, that the doings of the relief committee in the matter
of employing a person to take care of the widow of William Pickett
be approved, and they are authorized to draw from the treasury a
sum sufficient to pay the expenses and continue the same till the
next meeting of the society if found expedient, say $1.00 per week.
Voted, that Capt. Micajah Lunt and William Graves be a
committee to take into consideration the propriety of introducing
gas into this hall and to take such action on the subject as they
may deem expedient.
Voted, that the thanks of this society be presented to the
Hon. H. W. Kingsman for a present of charts, and also to the
Hon. James W. Duncan for procuring for the use of the society
such other charts as were necessary to make a full set of the coast
survey.
Voted, that the thanks of this society be presented to Messrs.
John N. and William Cushing, for a present of the charts published
by the U. S. Exploring Expedition.
Voted, that the secretary be instructed to procure a portfolio
for preserving said charts.
Capt. Robert Couch was proposed for membership.
Capt. J. F. Coffin died at New Orleans, midnight of Sept. 15th,
1852, aged 38. His body was brought to this city and deposited
in the family tomb at the Old Burial Ground, Oct. 27, 1852.
Capt. Oliver D. Pillsbury died at Charlestown, Oct. 4th, 1852,
aged 34 years.
Capt. Isaac Green Johnson died at his residence, East Cam-
bridge, Oct. 29, 1852, aged 43 years, and was buried at Oak Hill
Cemetery, Sunday, Oct. 31, 1852, 17 members of the society at-
tending his funeral.
THB MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 2 1 9
Nov. 25, 1852, officers chosen :
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Vice President.
' Capt. Mark Symonds, Treasurer.
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood, Secretary.
Capt. Thomas C. Page, Capt. Charles Marsh, and Capt. Rob-
ert Couch were admitted as members.
Finance committee:
Capt. William Graves,
Capt. Joshua Hale,
Capt. Edmund Pike,
Capt. Robert Bayley, Jr.
Capt. William A. Cheney.
Relief committee:
Capt. Mark Symonds,
Capt. Charles M. Bayley,
Capt. William Graves,
Capt. George Coffin,
Capt. Andrew W. Miltimore.
Voted, that the thanks of the society are due to James Adams,
Esq., American Consul at Singapore, for a present of a pair of
those rare birds, the "Argus Eyed Pheasants," and that the presi-
dent of the society be a committee to forward the same to Mr.
Adams.
Voted, that the thanks of the society are also due to Capt.
Isaac A. Bray for many specimens of models from the East Indies,
Model of Chinese Junk.
Model of Malay Proa.
Model of Malay passage boat.
Model of Coral in fine order.
Model of Gutta Percha.
Model of Bill of the Touchland.
Model of Sword of the Saw Fish.
Model of Antelopes Horns.
Voted, that the same gentleman be a committee to convey our
thanks to Capt. Bray.
220 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Dec. 9, 1852, report of the finance committee :
100 shares Merchants bank, par $3500.00
18 shares Mechanics bank 1800.00
16 shares Massachusetts bank 4000.00
22 shares Eastern railroad 2200.00
20 shares P. S. & P. railroad 2000.00
16 shares Boston & Worcester railroad 1600.00
6 shares Boston & Maine railroad 600.00
2 shares Boston & Lowell railroad 1000.00
1 certificate City of Boston scrip 500.00
4 bonds Newburyport railroad 800.00
Building and furniture 4500.00
Cash in hands of treasurer 516.06
$23,016.06
Report of relief committee:
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$800 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted and the recom-
mendations adopted.
The subject of admission fee was considered, and it was voted,
that the admission fee be $35 for all applicants not over 30 years
of age at the time of making application, and that one dollar be
added to the above for every year of the applicant's age, over 30
years.,
Voted, that $100 be appropriated for the purpose of furnishing
and fitting the upper room, and that a committee of three be
chosen to carry the above vote into effect.
Capts. N. S. Osgood, Mark Symonds and William Graves
were chosen.
'".' Voted, that the committee on relief be authorized to pay $14
how due the nurse for the care of Mrs. Pickett, and that they be
allowed to continue the weekly payments at their discretion.
Capt. William Bartlett died at his residence, Water street,
Dec. 28, 1852, aged 70 years, and was buried at Oak Hill cemetery,
Dec. 30, 18 members of the society attending his funeral.
February 24, 1853, the secretary reported that the printed
notifications were expended, and it was voted, that in future the
members be notified of the regular meetings through the New-
fcuryport Herald.
The following resolution was offered by Capt. Mark Symonds
and accepted:
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 221
"Whenever a fire occurs in the city, by which the property of
a member of this society, or that of the widow of a deceased mem-
ber shall be jeopardized or in peril, we resolve to do all in our
power to aid and assist in preserving the same."
Capt. Thomas C. Page, admitted as a member of this society,
Nov. 25, 1852, died at Porto Cabello, Feb. 14, 1853, of yellow
fever, aged 41 years.
May 26, 1853, voted, that the secretary be authorized to notify
all persons whose dues have been standing a year, and who have
been at home during that period, that the ninth article of the bye-
laws must be complied with.
Aug. 25, 1853, voted, that the thanks of this society are due to
Capt. Robert H. Pearson, for his very liberal donation of curiosi-
ties from Bengal to the society's cabinet.
Nov. 24, 1853, annual meeting. Election of officers:
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Vice President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Treasurer.
Capt. N. S. Osgood, Secretary.
The following were admitted for membership :
Captains Stephen G. Haskell, Samuel Walton, Samuel W.
Pike, Henry M. Graves, Moses Pike, John H. Spring, Samuel W.
Chase, John T. Bayley.
Finance committee :
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood,
Capt. William Graves,
Capt. Edmund Pike,
Capt. Joshua Hale,
Capt. Charles M. Bayley.
Relief committee :
Capt. Mark Symonds,
Capt. Dennis Condry,
Capt. William Graves,
Capt. Robert Bayley, Jr.,
Capt. Edmund Pike.
The report of the finance committee that the par value of the
society's funds was $23,372.44, was accepted.
222 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$772 be paid to the beneficiaries of the society, was accepted and
adopted.
Feb. 24, 1854, the petition of Michael Stevens to be recom-
mended to the Governor as a suitable person to be commissioned
as a branch pilot for this harbor, was presented by Capt. Pierce.
After considerable discussion it was voted 10 to 4 that it would be
inexpedient to create any more branch pilots for this harbor.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Paul Simpson, who had been_a member of the Marine
Society forty-seven years, died on the nth of February, 1854, at
the age of 80 years, and was buried at Oak Hill cemetery, at noon,
on the 14th of February, 14 members of the society attending his
funeral.
OBITUARY.
Capt. John N. Wills, a member of this society for twenty years
died at his residence in Cambridge, March 9, 1854, at the age of
44 years. His remains were brought to this city and deposited in
his tomb at Oak Hill cemetery on the 13th inst., 14 members of the
society attending his funeral.
OBITUARY.
Capt. John H. Titcomb died in Boston, June 14, aged 65
years, 10 months. His remains were brought to this city and bur-
ied on the 15th inst.
May 25, 1854, voted, that the invitation of the Mayor, for the
society to take a part in the celebration of the 4th of July, be most
respectfully declined.
The application of Michael Stevens for a recommendation as
a branch pilot was taken up, seven members voting in favor and
this number being a majority of those present, he was accordingly
approbated.
Nov. 30, 1854, officers elected:
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Vice President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Treasurer.
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood, Secretary.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 2^3
Finance committee :
Capt. Giles P. Stone,
Capt. Joshua Hale,
Capt. Andrew W. Miltimore,
Capt. Hlenry Cook,
Capt. George Lunt.
Relief committee :
Capt. William Graves,
Capt. Robert Couch,
Capt. Henry Shoof,
Capt. William A. Cheney,
Capt. Oliver O. Jones.
Capt. Nicholas Varina was proposed by Capt. Mark Symonds
as a candidate for admission into this society.
Capt. Micajah Lunt, Jr., was proposed by the president as a
candidate for admission to this society.
Capt. John M. Boyson was proposed by Capt. Moses Brown
as a candidate for admission to this society.
It appears that Capt. Thomas C. Page was not a member a
sufficient time to entitle his widow aid from the society, and on mo-
tion of Capt. R. Bayley, Jr., it was voted that the treasurer be
authorized to pay over to his widow the amount of his entrance
fees.
Voted, that the admission fees be the same as last year, viz :
$35 for candidates not exceeding 30 years of age and one dollar
additional for every year over 30.
Dec. 14, 1854, Capt. Abraham Somerby was proposed for
membership by Capt. Andrew Miltimore.
Report of the finance committee :
The finance committee reported that the funds of the society
amounted to $24,334.17.
The report of the relief committee recommending that the
sum of $800 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
Capt. Isaac S. Coffin died at New Orleans, Jan. 24, 1855, aged
56 years.
Feb. 22, 1855, voted, that the treasurer be authorized with
the approval of the president, to rent the store on the best terms
and to shut up the passage way to the store above, or not, as may
be found expedient.
224 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
The treasurer is also authorized to repair the roof as may be
needed.
May 31, 1855, Capt. William Le Craw gave notice that he
should at the next annual meeting move an amendment of the bye-
laws "that so much of the 20th article be annulled as makes the
omission to attend the funeral of a deceased member subject to a
fine of twenty-five cents."
Aug. 30, 1855, on motion of Capt. Le Craw, six dollars was
collected among the members for procuring a practical navigation
scale, rule, and dividers for the use of the members.
On motion of Capt. Robert Bayley, Jr., it was voted that the
treasurer be authorized to pay for the improvements made by the
erection of a brick addition to the store.
Nov. 29, 1855, officers elected:
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Vice President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Treasurer.
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood, Secretary.
Finance committee:
Capt. William Graves,
Capt. Robert Bayley, Jr.,
Capt. Andrew W. Miltimore,
Capt. Joshua Hale,
Capt. William Le Craw.
Relief committee:
Capt. William A. Cheney,
Capt. Samuel Knapp,
Capt. John H. Spring,
Capt. Charles M. Bayley,
Capt. Edmund Pike.
Capt. LeCraw moved that the bye-laws relating to funerals
be amended by striking out the penalty of twenty-five cents for
non-attendance, and it was voted so to amend by a two-tKirds vote.
A motion to reconsider, by Capt. Edmund Pike on the ground
of misunderstanding, was carried, and on the question being again
put, it was not a vote.
Capt. Le Craw gave notice, that at the next annual meeting
he should if present, renew the motion.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 325
Capt. Mark Symonds presented the journal of Capt. Ruben
Jones of the ship Minerva of 1802.
Dec. 13, 1855, the finance committee reported that the funds
of the society amounted to $24,077.67.
The relief committee recommending the sum of $800 be paid
to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Charles Hodge, for 51 years a worthy member of the
Marine Society, died Dec. 27, 1855, and was buried at the new bur-
ial ground the 31st day of December 1855, aged jy years. Seven-
teen members of the society attended his funeral.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Oliver O. Jones died at home on Wednesday morning,
Feb. 9, 1856, at the age of 47 years, and was buried at the Oak
Hill cemetery. It being a private funeral, the society did not at-
tend.
Feb. 25, 1856, Capt. William Graves stated that application
had been made to him for aid in paying the funeral expenses of
Mrs. John H. Titcomb, and it was voted to pay over the balance
of Widow Titcomb's pension, twenty dollars.
Capt. Charles Smith was proposed for membership by Capt.
Charles M. Bayley.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Samuel Chase, master of the schooner Alfaretta of this
city, while on his passage from Attakappas for Portsmouth, was
knocked overboard by the main boom and lost April 24, 1856.
Charlestown, May 10, 1856, the sloop Cinderella, Capt. Smith,
which arrived here last night from Cape Romain, brought as pas-
sengers Thomas Royal, late mate and five seamen lately attached
to the schooner Alfaretta of Newburyport, Mass. The Alfaretta
Capt. Samuel W. Chase, was on her passage from Attakappas, La.,
for Portsmouth, N. H., with a cargo of live oak timber, when on
the 24th ult., Lat. 28, Long. during a squall Capt. Chase was
knocked overboard by the boom and lost. After this accident, the
mate not being a good navigator, the vessel drifted about for sev-
eral days, when on the 27th ult., being as was supposed about 120
miles N. E. of Charleston fell in with barque Hamilton of Salem
15-a
226 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
for Doboy Island, Ga., the captain of which supplied the Alfaretta
with provisions and persuaded the commander of the schooner to
follow the barque and endeavor to reach Charleston. On Friday
last at 2 a. m., lost sight of the barque's light, when a short time
after made a light, which was thought might be the barque's and
stood for it, but unfortunately it proved to be Cape Romain light
and the schooner was consequently run ashore on the beach be-
fore daylight, near the light house. Mrs. Chase, the captain's wife,
and child, who were on board of the Alfaretta, have been left with
the keeper of the light house at Cape Romain, but will no doubt
reach this city in a few days.
May 29, 1856, the application of Capt. Moses Brown for aid
was read, and it was voted that he receive $20 per quarter during
the remainder of the year.
Voted, that a donation of $20 be paid to Mrs. Timothy
Young to aid her in getting to New York, and in addition to her
pension.
Aug. 28, 1856, Capt. Henry Shoof proposed the name of his
son, Capt. William H. Shoof, for membership.
Capt. Joshua Hale proposed the name of Capt. Edwin J.
Colby for membership.
Capt. William A. Cheney proposed the name of Capt. Na-
thaniel Hale for membership.
Nov. 27, 1856, election of officers :
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Vice President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Treasurer.
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood, Secretary.
The following were admitted to membership :
Capt. Albert Cheever,
Capt. Nehemiah A. Bray,
Capt. Charles Smith,
Capt. William H. Shoof,
Capt. Edwin J. Colby,
Capt. Nathaniel Hale.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 227
Finance committee:
Capt. Robert Bayley, Jr.,
Capt. Edmund Pike,
Capt. John H. Spring,
Capt. Joshua Hale,
Capt. Andrew W. Miltimore.
Relief committee :
Capt. William A. Cheney,
Capt. Henry Shoof,
Capt. Charles M. Bayley,
Capt. William H. Lunt,
Capt. Moses Pike.
Capt. William Graves proposed the name of his brother, Capt.
Edward Graves, for membership.
Dec. 2, 1856, the report of the finance committee that the
funds of the society amounted to $23,105.80, was accepted.
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$940 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
Feb. 26, 1857, voted, that the resolution offered by Capt.
Mark Symonds, Feb. 24, 1853, an^ adopted (relating to assistance
to each other when their property is in danger by fire) be printed
and a copy placed in the book of each member of the society.
OBITUARY.
Capt. David Haskell, a member of this society for 38 years,
died April 17, 1857, aged 81 years and 5 months, and was buried
on the easterly side of the burial grounds, 14 members of the so-
ciety attending his funeral.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Samuel Boardman died June 2, 1857, aged 86 years, and
was buried June 4th at the Oak Hill cemetery, 15 members of the
society attending his funeral.
Capt. Mark Symonds reported the death of widow Timothy
Young, and that her daughter had asked if the society would as-
sist in paying the funeral expenses.
Voted, that the quarterly pension which would be due this
day, be paid to Mrs. Young's 'daughter, for the purpose above
named.
2*8 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Aug. 28, 1857, Capt. Thomas Pritchard proposed the name of
Capt. Elbridge G. Colby for membership.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Joseph Patch died Aug. 31, 1857, aged 88 years, and
was buried in the New Burial Ground Sept. 2, 1857, I2 members of
the society attending the funeral.
Nov. 26, 1857, election of officers:
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Vice President
Capt. Mark Symonds, Treasurer.
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood, Secretary.
Captains Edward Graves and Elbridge G. Colby were elected
to membership.
Finance committee :
Capt. Joshua Hale,
Capt. Henry Shoof,
Capt. Charles M. Bayley,
Capt. Alexander Graves,
Capt. John Simpson.
Relief committee:
Capt. W. A. Cheney,
Capt. John H. Spring,
Capt. Charles Marsh,
Capt. Andrew W. Miltimore,
Capt. William H. Shoof.
Voted, that the thanks of the society are due to Capt. John
Simpson and to Capt. Thomas Pritchard for their contributions
to the society's museum.
Dec. 10, 1857, the finance committee reported that the funds
of the society amounted to $23,730.17.
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum
of $990 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
Capt. Osgood gave notice that at the next annual meeting he
should move for an amendment to the 13th article of the bye-laws
by erasing the word charity so that the three first lines shall read
"who shall in the opinion of the society be proper objects for their
relief, support, or maintenance."
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 329
OBITUARY.
Capt. Samuel Knapp died suddenly, Jan. 21, 1858, aged 54
years, and was buried at Oak Hill cemetery Jan. 22, 1858, 17 mem-
bers of the society were present at the funeral.
May 27, 1858, a letter from Mr. Allen Brewster, stating the
condition of Mrs. Ross' family, was read.
Aug. 26, 1858, Capt. David Le Craw was proposed for mem-
bership.
Voted, that the quarterly payment due Mrs. Titcomb (de-
ceased) be subject to the order of the chairman of the relief com-
mittee for the purpose of paying the funeral expenses of Mrs. Tit-
comb.
Nov. 25, 1858, officers elected :
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Vice President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Treasurer.
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood, Secretary.
Finance committee:
Capt. John H. Spring,
Capt. Nicholas Varina,
Capt. Isaac A. Bray,
Capt. Stephen P. Bray,
Capt. William H. Shoof.
Relief committee :
Capt. William A. Cheney,
Capt. John M. Boyson,
Capt. John Simpson,
Capt. Charles M. Bayley,
Capt. Joshua Hale.
Captains George W. Knight, Charles Hale, George E. Balch,
David R. LeCraw, were admitted as members of the society.
Voted, that we take up the subject of altering the bye-laws as
proposed by Capt. N. S. Osgood at the last annual meeting. After
some little discussion, it was voted unanimously that the words
"and charity" be expunged from the 13th article of the bye-laws.
On motion of Capt. Miltimore, it was voted that the secretary
write to Capt. Nehemiah A. Bray and ask if he intends to comply
with the usages of this society, or withdraw from the same.
15-fo
23O RECORDS AND HISTORY OP
Dec. 9, 1858, the finance committee reported that the funds of
the society amounted to $24,003.21, which was accepted.
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$970 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
Feb. 24, 1859, tne president proposed the name of Capt. Ben-
jamin P. Dow for membership.
Capt. Edmund Pike proposed the name of Capt. Thomas Mc-
Kenney for membership.
Capt. Charles M. Bayley proposed the name of his son, Capt.
Charles E. Bayley, for membership.
Voted, that the secretary be a committee to have a fixed shelf
or table placed between the front windows, also to have the carpet
varnished.
May 26, 1859, tne subject of Capt. N. A. Bray's neglect to pay
his admission fee was discussed, and in consequence of his peculiar
position, it was voted that the matter lay on the table until the an-
nual meeting.
Voted, that the secretary be required to call the attention of
Capt. George E. Balch to his neglect in the matter of admission
fee and request him to comply with the bye-laws or resign.
Aug. 25, Capt. Jeremiah Lunt was proposed for membership.
Voted, that the treasurer be authorized to pay the expense
of getting the model of the ship Washington into the hall. In or-
der to accomplish this vote the front of the building was removed
and afterwards replaced.
Voted, that the thanks of this society be presented to James
L. Townsend and the other proprietors for the valuable present of
the highly finished model ship Washington.
Nov. 24, officers elected:
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Vice President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Treasurer.
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood, Secretary.
The following were admitted to membership : Captains Ben-
jamin P. Dow, Thomas McKenney, Charles E. Bayley, Jeremiah
Lunt.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 23 1
Finance committee:
Capt. Charles M. Bayley,
Capt. Joshua Hale,
Capt. Andrew W. Miltimore,
Capt. E. G. Colby,
Capt. M. Lunt, Jr.
Relief committee :
Capt. W. A. Cheney,
Capt. Henry Cook,
Capt. M. Lunt, Jr.,
Capt. Isaac A. Bray,
Capt. William H. Shoof.
The subject of Capt. Bray's non-compliance with the bye-laws
in neglecting to pay his entrance fee was taken up, and the motion
to expel him did not prevail and no other action was taken.
The motion that Capt. George E. Balch be expelled for ne-
glecting to pay his entrance fee, was passed unanimously.
Capt. Joseph Hoyt was proposed by the secretary as a can-
didate for membership.
Capt. Charles E. Coker was proposed by Capt. Charles M.
Bayley for membership.
Dec. 8, 1859, the finance committee reported that the funds
of the society amounted to $24,504.27 and the report was accepted.
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$820 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
A letter from Capt. George Coffin was read in which he re-
quests the influence and aid of the society in his application for the
office of master of the "Reform School Ship."
Capt. Edmund S. Raynes was proposed by Capt. Charles M.
Bayley for membership in the society.
Feb. 23, i860, voted unanimously, that Capt. N. A. Bray be
disfranchised, he having neglected to pay his matriculation fees.
May 31, i860, Capt. Eliphalet Emery Hale was proposed for
membership into the society.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Samuel Walton died of fever at Antwerp, Aug. 23, 1859,
aged 58 years and 6 months. His remains were committed to the
232 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
deep, Oct. 6th from the ship Josephus, of which he had been
master.
Capt. Edwin J. Colby died at Bremen, Dec. 19, 1859, aged 47
years.
Capt. Benjamin Pierce died at home, Aug. 29, i860, aged 67
years and 10 months, and was buried at Oldtown cemetery, 15
members of the society attending his funeral.
Nov. 29, i860, election of officers:
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Vice President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Treasurer.
Capt. N. S. Osgood, Secretary.
The following were admitted as members of the society:
Captains Joseph Hoyt, Charles E. Coker, Edmund S. Raynes,
Eliphalet Emery Hale.
Finance committee:
Capt. Henry Shoof,
Capt. John H. Spring,
Capt. Isaac A. Bray,
Capt. Jere Lunt,
Capt. Thomas McKenney.
Relief committee:
Capt. Robert Couch,
Capt. W. A. Cheney,
Capt. Nicholas Varina,
Capt. Alexander Graves,
Capt. Moses J. Mulliken.
Capt. Benjamin C. Emerton was proposed by the secretary
for membership into the society.
Dec. 13, i860, the report of the relief committee recommend-
ing the sum of $1045 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
The finance committee reported the funds of the society
amounted to $26,358.55, which was accepted.
Feb. 28, 1861, Capt. Jacob B. Brown was proposed as a candi-
date for admission into the society by Capt. Isaac A. Bray.
Capt. Henry W. Lunt was proposed by Capt. Thomas C.
Simpson.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT
233
Voted, that Capt. N. S. Osgood be a committee to have the
window frames and sashes painted, varnished and repaired.
Voted, that Capt. W. A. Cheney, (on account of the failure of
his sight,) be excused from all fines hereafter for non-attendance
at meetings.
Voted, that the finance committee be authorized to confer with
Mr. Lake on the subject of altering the front of the store and
making other improvements, and they have power to act in such
manner as they may deem for the interest of the society.
May 30, 1861, Capt. Robert Nowell was proposed as a can-
didate by Capt. Henry Cook.
Nov. 28, 1861, officers elected:
Capt. Micajah Lunt, President.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, Vice President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Treasurer.
Capt. N. S. Osgood, Secretary.
Captains Benjamin C. Emerton, Samuel B. Pike, Jacob B.
Brown, Robert T. Nowell, were admitted as members of this so-
ciety by unanimous vote.
Finance committee :
Capt. John H. Spring,
Capt. Isaac A. Bray,
Capt. Nicholas Varina,
Capt. Thomas Pritchard,
Capt. George W. Knight.
Relief committee:
Capt. Robert Couch,
Capt. Joseph Hoyt,
Capt. George W. Hale,
Capt. Henry Cook,
Capt. Daniel Knight.
A letter from Capt. Abram Somerby was read requesting the
loan of $50, and it was voted to remit to Capt. Somerby $50 on
condition of his resigning all claims on the society hereafter.
The finance committee reported that the funds of the society
amounted to $26,302.19.
Dec. 12, 1861, the report of the relief committee recommend-
ing that the sum of $1155 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accept-
ed.
334 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Feb. 27, 1862, Capt. Samuel G. P. Mulliken was proposed for
membership by Capt. Gyles P. Stone.
May 29, 1862, Capt. David P. Page was proposed for mem-
bership by Capt. Micajah Lunt.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Moses Brown died at home Aug. 27, 1862, aged 53
years, and was buried in the New Burial Ground, Aug. 29, 22
members of the society attending the funeral.
Capt. Henry M. Spring was proposed for membership by his
father, Capt. John H. Spring.
Capt. George L. Woods was proposed for membership by
Capt. Isaac A. Bray.
Capt. Rafael A. Bayley was proposed for membership by his
father, Capt. Robert Bayley, Jr.
Capt. Osgood gave notice that he should at the annual meet-
ing move that the bye laws be so far amended as to make some
provision for calling special meetings.
Nov. 27. 1862. After the roll call, the president remarked that
this was the fullest meeting he had presided over in 25 years (38
being present), that the society was in a very prosperous condition
and that having served them for 25 years as president and vice
president, he declined the honor of a re-election.
Officers elected:
Capt. Giles P. Stone, President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Vice President.
Capt. William Graves, Treasurer.
Capt. N. S. Osgood, Secretary.
Captains Samuel G. P. Mulliken, David P. Page, Henry M.
Spring, George L. Woods, Rafael A. Bayley, were admitted to
membership.
Finance committee:
Capt. Isaac A. Bray,
Capt. Nicholas Varina,
Capt. Robert T. Nowell,
Capt. George Lunt,
Capt. Charles B. Stevens.
THE MARINK SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 235
Relief committee :
Capt. Robert Couch,
Capt. Henry Cook,
Capt. Frederick Moore,
Capt. Stephen P. Bray,
Capt. Edmund S. Raynes.
Capt. Osgood moved that his motion at the last meeting
calling for a bye-law that should define in what manner a special
meeting should be called, should now be taken up, and a motion
was made "that the president should call a special meeting on the
petition of ten members," giving the usual notice, number of votes
in favor of this motion being 17. As it required a two-thirds vote
the motion was lost.
Capt. George Rogers was proposed for membership by Capt.
Mark Symonds.
The following remarks were made by Capt. Lunt on resigning
the office of president:
Gentlemen :
This evening, the return of our annual meeting,
completes twenty-five full years, that by your unanimous choice, I
have filled the office of vice president and president of the New-
buryport Marine Society, having been elected to the office of vice
president on the 30th of November, 1837, which I held till the 24th
of November, 1842, when on the retirement of the late Capt.
Eleazer Johnson, I became its presiding officer. During this long
period of twenty-five years nothing has occurred to mar our pleas-
ant intercourse, and while I feel extremely grateful for
the confidence you have so long reposed in me and for your cheer-
ful aid and co-operation in the discharge of my duties, I would
take the opportunity to state that I am not a candidate for re-
election. I joined the society in November, 1830, then consisting
of 43 living members of the 164 on record, of whom 38 are dead,
leaving but five now living of those with whom I then united. Of
these, two are octogenarians. There are now 73 living members
of the 268 on record, ofwhich two have resigned, one disfranchised,
and one expelled, leaving 191 as passed away from earth. The
funds of the society have increased from a little rising fourteen
thousand dollars in 1830, to more than $26,000 at the present time.
236 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Dec. 11, 1862, Capt. Joseph D. Small was proposed for mem-
bership by Capt. Charles M. Bayley.
The petition of Mr. Warner to be recommended as an assist-
ant pilot from this port to Haverhill was read and laid on the table,
Mr. Warner being unknown to the members.
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$1125 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
The report of the finance committee that the funds of the so-
ciety amounted to $27,476.72.
The following resolution was adopted.
Resolved, that the thanks of this society be tendered by the
secretary to Capt. Micajah Lunt our late president, for the able,
courteous, and impartial manner in which for a long period of
years he has presided over the meetings of the society.
OBITUARY.
Capt. William Nichols, the oldest member of this society, de-
parted this life on the 12th of February, at the age of 82 years. He
was born July 1, 1781, admitted a member Nov. 28, 181 1. He
was buried on the south west side of the city burial grounds, 23
members of the society attending his funeral.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Charles Hale died in London, Jan. 20, 1862, aged 36
years.
Capt. Nathaniel Hale, his brother, died in London, Jan. 6,
1863, aged 40.
Feb. 26, 1863, voted, that we recommend the finance commit-
tee to sell the Eastern railroad stock now owned by the society,
if in their opinion the proceeds can be re-invested to the advantage
of the society.
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown was proposed for membership by
Capt. Jere Lunt.
Capt. James K. Pritchard was proposed for membership by
Capt. Charles B. Stevens.
Voted, that the secretary be authorized to expend a sum not
exceeding fifteen dollars, in improvements in the upper hall.
May 28, 1863, the question of selling the Eastern railroad
stock belonging to the society being under discussion, Capt. Spring
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 237
moved that the stock be sold at auction and the proceeds invested
in what are termed U. S. 5-20S.
Capt. Osgood moved a division of the question. The motion
of Capt. Osgood's was lost, 13 members being opposed to a di-
vision.
It was then voted, that the Eastern railroad stock be sold by
the finance committee and the proceeds be invested in the govern-
ment bonds termed the five twenty bonds.
Capt. Richard Pettingell was proposed for membership by
Capt. George Lunt.
Capt. William Reed was proposed by Capt. Charles M. Bayley.
Capt. William H. Swap was proposed by Capt. Stephen P.
Bray.
Capt. John E. Brown was proposed for membership by Capt.
Charles B. Stevens.
Capt. William Le Craw gave notice that he should move an
amendment of the bye-laws at the annual meeting so that members
shall be excused from fines for non-attendance at funerals.
Aug. 27, 1863, Capt. James W. Elliott was proposed for mem-
bership by Capt. B. C. Emerton.
Nov. 26, 1863, officers elected :
Capt. Giles P. Stone, President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Vice President.
Capt. William Graves, Treasurer.
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood, Secretary.
The following were admitted as members :
Captains George L. Rogers, Lawrence W. Brown, James K.
Pritchard, Richard Pettingell, William Reed, W. H. Swap, John E.
Brown, James W. Elliott.
Finance committee:
Capt. Isaac A. Bray,
Capt. Robert T. Nowell,
Capt. D. R. Le Craw,
Capt. Nicholas Varina,
Capt. George Lunt.
Relief committee :
Capt. Robert Couch,
Capt. Henry Cook,
Capt. Frederick Moore,
Capt. Stephen P. Bray,
Capt. George W. Hale.
238 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Capt. William Le Craw made a motion to alter the bye-laws
so that no person shall be liable for a fine for non-attendance at
funerals. Twenty-eight members being present, 19 were opposed
to the alteration and nine in favor.
Capt. Le Craw then gave notice that he should renew his mo-
tion at the next annual meeting.
The following persons were chosen a committee to take into
consideration the propriety of increasing the admission fee and to
report at the next meeting, Capts. Micajah Lunt, John H. Spring,
W. H. Lunt, Alexander Graves, E. E. Hale.
Dec. 10, 1863, the finance committee reported that the funds
of the society amounted to $28,638.52.
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$1130 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
The committee to whom was referred the question of increas-
ing the admission fee, respectfully report, that in their opinion it
should remain as heretofore, $35. But inasmuch as the value of
our currency is fluctuating and for the purpose of equalization, we
recommend that the admission fee be required in gold or silver
coin or its equivalent, and so with the sliding scale increasing the
amount in case of members over 30 years of age as it now stands.
For the committee,
MICAJAH LUNT.
Capt. William Le Craw gave notice that at the next annual
meeting he should move for expunging the last clause of the 13th
article of the bye-laws, which reads as follows : "And no member,
nor the widow or children of any deceased member shall be entitled
to any annual pension unless such member has belonged to the
society seven years at least, and during that time has complied with
all the bye-laws and has not been disfranchised."
Aug. 25, 1864, a petition to the Governor and Council was
read and also a letter from the pilots asking the society to recom-
mend an increase of the pilotage at this port, and on motion of
Capt. Charles M. Bayley, it was voted unanimously to recommend
an increase of 30 per cent on the present rates.
The petition of Graten Martin to be recommended as a branch
, pilot was laid on the table.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 239
Nov. 24, 1864, officers elected:
Capt. Giles P. Stone, President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Vice President.
Capt. William Graves, Treasurer.
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Isaac A. Bray,
Capt. Nicholas Varina,
Capt. George Lunt,
Capt. Edmund Pike,
Capt. Robert Bayley.
Relief committee :
Capt. Henry Cook,
Capt. Fred Moore,
Capt. George W. Hale,
Capt. Moses J. Mulliken,
Capt. Joseph Hoyt.
Capt. Edmund J. Pike was admitted a member.
Capt. Osgood (in accordance with notice previously given)
called for a vote on the question of a supplementary by-law defin-
ing the manner in which a special meeting may be called, and the
following by-law was passed by a vote of 29 to 6 in the negative.
"The president is authorized to call a special meeting on the
petition of 10 members, giving three days notice in the Newbury-
port Herald, and the same fines and penalties shall be collected on
all absentees from said meeting as at other meetings."
Capt. John N. Pritchard was proposed for membership by
Capt. Edmund S. Raynes.
The finance committee reported that the funds of the society
amounted to $30,262.91.
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$1617 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
OBITUARY.
Capt. John T. Bayley died at home at 10 p. m., Dec. 20, 1864,
and was buried at Oak Hill cemetery on the 23 inst. Twenty-five
members of the society attended his funeral.
Capt. Andrew W. Miltimore died Jan. 16, 1865, and was buried
24O RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
in the Belleville cemetery, Jan. 18, aged 7$ years, 6 months. Twelve
members of the society attended his funeral.
Capt. Micajah Lunt, Jr., departed this life Jan. 18, 1865, aged
32 years, and was buried at Oak Hill cemetery.
Feb. 23, 1865, it was voted that the thanks of this society be
presented to Capt. John Simpson, and to Capt. Thomas Mackinney
for valuable contributions to the society's collection of curiosities
Aug. 31, 1865, Capt. William H. Bayley was proposed foi
membership, by his father, Capt. Robert Bayley.
OBITUARY.
On Thursday, the 22nd of December, 1864, Capt. James K
Pritchard was washed overboard from the decks of the ship Elcanc
on her passage from Boston to Calcutta.
Capt. William Le Craw died Sept. 26, 1865, aged 69 years, c
months, 3 days, and was buried at Oak Hill cemetery.
Capt. Thomas Pritchard died Nov. 2, 1865, aged 54 years, ic
months, and was buried at Oak Hill cemetery Nov. 6. Twenty-si>
members of the society attended his funeral.
Nov. 30, 1865, annual meeting. Election of officers :
Capt. Giles P. Stone, President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Vice President.
Capt. Wlliam Graves, Treasurer.
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Isaac A. Bray,
Capt. Nicholas Varina,
Capt. Edmund Pike,
Capt. Robert Bayley,
Capt. John H. Spring.
Relief committee:
Capt. Frederick Moore,
Capt. Moses J. Mulliken,
Capt. Joseph Hoyt,
Capt. David P. Page,
Capt. Samuel W. Pike.
Voted, that Capt. William H. Bayley and Capt. John N
Pritchard be admitted as members.
CAPT. WILLIAM H. BAYLEY,
SECRETARY.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 24I
Dec. 14, 1865, the finance committee reported that the funds
of the society amounted to $31,754.15.
The report of the relief committee recommending that the sum
of $1533 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
On motion of Capt. Isaac Bray, it was voted to reconsider the
vote by which the admission fee was fixed at $35.
Capt. Bray then moved that the admission fee be $40.
Capt. M. Lunt moved an amendment, making it $50, which did
not prevail.
It was then voted that the three last members admitted be re-
quired to pay $40 admission fee with the sliding scale.
Capt. Joseph A. Janvrin was proposed for membership by
Capt. George W. Hale.
Feb. 22, 1866, voted, that the president and secretary be a
committee to petition the next legislature for an amendment of the
charter so far as relates to the income on personal or real estate,
it being now limited to £800, that it may read $10,000.
Jan 13, 1866, Capt. W. H. Bayley paid his admission fee, $40.
May 31, 1866, Capt. John N. Pritchard paid his admission fee,
$40.
Aug. 30, 1866, Capt. Mark Symonds gave notice that he
should at the annual meeting move for an amendment of the by-
laws, that all regular meetings of the society be called to order at
7 o'clock, except that of May.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Samuel Goodhue fell overboard in the night from the
Fall River steamer in Long Island Sound, Oct. 10, 1866, and was
drowned.
Nov. 29, 1866, annual meeting. Officers elected:
Capt. Giles P. Stone, President.
Capt. Mark Symonds, Vice President.
Capt. William Graves, Treasurer.
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. John H. Spring,
Capt. Robert Bayley,
Capt. Edmund Pike,
Capt. Nicholas Varina,
Capt. Benjamin P. Dow.
16-a
242 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Relief committee :
Capt. Joseph C. Hoyt,
Capt. Moses J. Mulliken,
Capt. Charles E. Bayley,
Capt. Henry M. Spring,
Capt. Alexander Graves.
Voted, that the admission fee be $40 currency with the sliding
scale of one dollar for every year over thirty in the age of the can-
didate.
Capt. Joseph A. Janvrin was admitted a member.
The motion of Capt. Mark Symonds was called up by Capt.
Spring, and it was voted to pass it over to the next annual meet-
ing.
Voted, that Capt. Micajah Lunt be requested to restore to
Capt. Jere Lunt his warrant as a branch pilot, and that Capt. Jere
Lunt resume his duties as a pilot with the full approbation of this
society.
Voted, that Capt. N. S. Osgood and Capt. C. M. Bayley be a
committee to draw up a petition to the lighthouse board, praying
for an alteration of the lights so that they may be a better guide to
vessels running for this harbor in the night.
Dec. 13, 1866, voted, that this society recommend and appro-
bate Capt. Jere Lunt to the Governor and the Honorable Council
of the state of Massachusetts, and request them to commission
him as a full branch pilot for this port, and we also approve of
Capt. Henry Cook and Edward W. Lunt as his bondsmen or
sureties.
The finance committee reported that the funds of the society
amounted to $32,921.06.
The report of the relief committee recommending that the
sum of $1095 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
Capt. Joseph D. Small was proposed for membership by Capt.
Charles M. Bayley.
Whereas a petition of the principal merchants of this city call-
ing the attention of the light house board to the improvement of
the lights at the entrance of this harbor having been read, it was
unanimously resolved, that we approve of the same and recom-
mend it to the special notice of the lighthouse board at Washing-
ton.
CAPT. JOSEPH A. JANVRIN.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURVPORT 243
OBITUARY.
Capt. Mark Symonds, vice president of the society, born Dec.
6, 1790, died Jan. 4, 1867, aged 76 years, and was buried Jan. 8, at
Oak Hill Cemetery, 20 members of this society attending his
funeral.
Feb. 28, 1867, the committee appointed to procure an act of
the legislature authorizing this society to hold larger funds, made
their report and read the act of the legislature empowering the so-
ciety to hold real and personal estate to the amount of one hundred
thousand dollars as follows:
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
In the Year 1867.
An Act concerning the Marine Society at Newburyport.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General
Court assembled, and by authority of the same, as follows:
Section 1. The Marine Society at Newburyport is hereby authorized
to hold real and personal estate to an amount not exceeding one hundred
thousand dollars.
Section 2. So much of the act incorporating said Society, being
Chapter VIII of the Acts of the year 1777, as authorized said Society to
hold real and personal estate, the rents and interests of which shall not
exceed eight hundred pounds per annum, is hereby repealed.
House of Representatives, Jan. 28, 1867.
Passed to be enacted.
JAMES M. STONE. Speaker.
In Senate, Jan. 30, 1867.
Passed to be enacted.
JOSEPH A. POND, President.
February 1, 1867. Approved:
ALEX. H. BULLOCK.
Secretary's Department, Boston, Feb. 23, 1867.
A true copy. Attest:
OLIVER WARNER,
Secretary of the Commonwealth.
May 30, 1867, the president read the following letters from John
N. Pike, trustee :
Newburyport, April 1, 1867.
In the will of Capt. Mark Symonds is the following legacy.
And at her decease (i. e. Miss Charlotte W. Symonds) to pay two
thousand dollars to the Marine Society of Newburyport.
Very truly yours,
JOHN N. PIKE, Trustee.
To the Marine Society of Newburyport.
244 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
To the Officers and Members of the Marine Society of Newburyport:
Gentlemen: —
The legacy tax on the legacy left you by the will of Capt. Mark
Symonds is $33.72. This is the only tax on the same, so that at the decease
of Miss Charlotte W. Symonds, the amount of $2000 becomes yours with-
out any conditions or further limitation.
Yours truly, JOHN N. PIKE, Executor.
On motion it was voted that the treasurer pay the above sum
$33.72, from the funds in his hands.
The president read a letter addressed to the Governor of the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts signed by Charles S. Lunt, and
a petition to the Governor of the Commonwealth, signed by 27
merchants and citizens of Newburyport, praying that said Charles
S. Lunt may be appointed a pilot for the port of Newburyport.
The president stated that these documents had been handed
to him with a request that they should be endorsed with the ap-
probation of the Marine Society.
On motion of Capt. Osgood, it was voted that the papers be
laid on the table for action at the next meeting in August.
Aug. 29, 1867, the subject of appointing Charles S. Lunt as a
branch pilot was taken from the table, and on motion of Capt.
Osgood the matter was indefinitely postponed.
The secretary stated that he had called on Capt. John E.
Brown to pay his entrance fees and that Capt. Brown informed
him that he had never authorized any one to propose him as a can-
didate, and if he was a member he would ask the society to allow
him to resign. On motion the society voted to accept the resigna-
tion of Capt. Brown.
Capt. Charles Marsh died July 18, 1867, aged 67 years, and
was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery. The weathr being very stormy,
the society did not attend his funeral.
Capt. George Coffin died at Jamaica Plains, March, 1867.
Nov. 28, 1867, annual meeting. Officers elected:
Capt. N. S. Osgood, by the president, tendered his resignation
as secretary on account of ill health, and on so doing he desired to
thank the members for their uniform kindness and forbearance
towards him during the term he had served them as secretary.
The president called for a nomination for secretary pro tern
and Capt. Charles E. Bayley was nominated and chosen.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 245
Officers elected :
Capt. Giles P. Stone, President.
Capt. William Graves, Vice President.
Capt. George Lunt, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles E. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. John H. Spring,
Capt. Robert Bayley,
Capt. Edmund Pike,
Capt. Nicholas Varina,
Capt. Stephen P. Bray.
Relief committee ;
Capt. Joseph Hoyt,
Capt. M. J. Mulliken,
Capt. S. W. Pike,
Capt. D. P. Page,
Capt. George W. Hale.
Capt. George Lunt made the following motion, which was sec-
onded by several members, viz : that a vote of thanks be tendered
to Capt. N. S. Osgood for the able, prompt and courteous manner
in which he has discharged the duties of secretary of the society
for a period of nearly 20 years. That in accepting his resignation
as secretary, we deeply regret to learn of his severe illness, and
tender him our heartfelt sympathy and sincere desire for his speedy
recovery, that we may again enjoy his genial presence and pleas-
ant intercourse in our midst. That his motion may be recorded in
the records of the society, and that the secretary be instructed to
furnish Capt. Osgood with a copy of the same. Passed by a unani-
mous vote.
Voted, that the chair appoint a committee whose duty it shall
be to attend to the Museum of the society. The chair appointed
Captains John Simpson, Alexander Graves, Nicholas Varina, Jo-
seph Hoyt.
Capt. Joseph D. Small was admitted a member.
Dec. 12, 1867, the finance committee reported that the funds
of the society amounted to $34,170.60.
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$1652 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
16-b
246 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
It was moved by Capt. C. M. Bayley, that the society have a
library built in a suitable place to hold the books and charts be-
longing to the society, and the chair appointed Captains William
Graves, John Simpson, Charles M. Bayley.
Feb. 27, 1868, Capt. Thomas McKenney made the following
motion, seconded by Capt. George W. Hale. "This room to be
used as a reading room for the members of this society for a term
of three months, all the expenses to be borne by those members
who habitually use the room for that purpose. The room not to
be kept open after 6 o'clock p. m."
This motion caused some discussion which was entered into
by Capt. McKenney and Capt. Varina in its favor and Capt. Os-
good and Capt. C. M. Bayley against it.
Capt. Jacob B. Brown moved an amendment to have the sub-
ject postponed until the next annual meeting, which was lost by a
yea and nay vote, there being 21 nays to 4 yeas. The original
motion was finally carried by a vote of 12 in the affirmative to 8 in
the negative.
OBITUARY.
Capt. William H. Shoof died at home Aug. 28, 1868, after a
very long and painful illness, and was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery.
Seventeen members of the society attended his funeral.
Capt. Henry M. Graves died in Calcutta, Aug. 27, 1868, aged
50 years.
Nov. 26, 1868, annual meeting. Officers chosen:
Capt. Giles P. Stone, President.
Capt. William Graves, Vice President.
Capt. George Lunt, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles E. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. John H. Spring,
Capt. Robert Bayley,
Capt. Edmund Pike,
Capt. Nicholas Varina,
Capt. S. P. Bray.
Relief committee :
Capt. Joseph C. Hoyt,
Capt. M. J. Mulliken,
Capt. S. B. Pike,
Capt. W. H. Lunt,
Capt. Edward Graves.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 247
On motion, it was voted, that the committee appointed to look
after the Museum be discharged from any further duty.
On motion of Capt. Thomas C. Simpson, seconded by Capt.
Robert Couch, that Capt. John Simpson be appointed superintend-
ent of the building, rooms and contents belonging to this society.
Voted unanimously in the affirmative.
It was moved by Capt. William Graves that a committee be
appointed to fix the duties and salary of the superintendent, and
the Chair appointed Capts. William Graves, C. M. Bayley, T. C.
Simpson, W. H. Lunt
Dec. 10, 1868, the finance committee reported that the funds
of the society amounted to $35,239.62.
The report of the relief committee recommending that the
sum of $1270 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
Report of committee on duties and salary of superintendent:
Hall of the Marine Society, Dec. 10, 1868.
The undersigned appointed a committee to consider and re-
port upon the duties and salary of the superintendent, appointed at
the annual meeting, have given the subject their attention and
submit the following report.
The duty of the superintendent in the judgment of your com-
mittee, should be to have a general care and oversight of the rooms
of the society, to keep the same at all times neat and in order, and
to build fires when required for the meetings of the members. To
see that the Museum is kept from dust, and that the articles there-
in are suitably arranged and properly labeled, and that the books,
charts, etc., of the society are kept in place, and generally to do
all the duties of a janitor.
Your committee recommend that the salary of the super-
intendent for the current year be fixed at $200.
Respectfully submitted,
WILLIAM GRAVES,
CHARLES M. BAYLEY,
T. C. SIMPSON,
W. H. LUNT,
Committee.
The report of the committee was unanimously accepted and
adopted.
248 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Feb. 25, 1869, a petition signed by merchants and citizens of
Newburyport was read, praying that Charles S. Lunt be appointed
a branch pilot for the port of Newburyport, also a remonstrance
signed by five of the present pilots in opposition to said petition.
After some discussion, a committee was chosen consisting of
Capt. William Graves, Robert Couch, Thomas McKinney, to en-
quire into the necessity or expediency of appointing further pilots,
and to this committee was referred the petition of Charles S. Lunt
and the remonstrance of the present pilots, to be reported on in
four weeks from this evening at a special meeting to be called for
that purpose.
A communication was read from Mr. S. W. Haynes, request-
ing the endorsement of this society to his petition for the office of
light keeper, which was laid on the table.
Capt. Robert Pendar was proposed for membership by Capt.
Charles M. Bayley.
Capt. N. S. Osgood moved that a committee be appointed to
procure a new stamp or seal for the society, and he was appointed
a committee with full powers.
It was voted on motion of Capt. William Graves, that the
superintendent have discretionary power in the matter of arrang-
ing articles, etc., in the Museum, subject to the approval of the
president and secretary.
March 25, 1869, the report of the committee appointed to
consider the matter of the necessity or expediency of appointing
further pilots, was read, and on motion of Capt. N. S. Osgood,
seconded by Capt. George Lunt, was unanimously accepted and
adopted.
Voted, on motion of Capt. N. S. Osgood, that it is inexpedient
for the society to take any action upon the petition of I. H. Board-
man and others asking the approbation of Capt. Charles S. Lunt
as a branch pilot for the port of Newburyport.
A petition signed by five of the branch pilots of Newburyport
was read by the treasurer, asking that a committee be appointed
from this society who shall have an oversight of the business of the
pilots and to whom shall be referred all matters of disputes or dif-
ferences.
After some remarks by Capt. N. S. Osgood, Capt. C. M. Bay-
ley, Capt. N. Varina, Capt. William Graves,, on motion of Capt.
N. Varina, seconded by Capt. McKinney, it was voted unanimous-
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 249
ly that a committee of five be chosen in accordance with the re-
quest of the pilots, and that an obligation be drawn up by them
to be signed by all the pilots.
Captains George Lunt, N. S. Osgood, S. P. Bray, T. C. Simp-
son, Thomas McKinney were unanimously chosen as that com-
mittee.
Capt. Isaac N. Colby was proposed for membership by Capt.
Albert Cheever.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Benjamin P. Dow died in San Francisco, Cal., April 17,
1869, aged 58 years.
Capt. Alexander Graves died at home, May 17, 1869, aged 46
years and was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery. Twenty-two mem-
bers of the society attended his funeral.
May 27, 1869, Capt. N. S. Osgood for the pilots committee
submitted a verbal report of their doings since the last meeting,
and read the correspondence passed between them and the pilots,
interspercing the reading with pointed and characteristic remarks.
Voted unanimously, on motion of Capt. Varina, seconded by
Capt. William Graves, that the society accept and approve the do-
ings of the pilots committee so far as they have gone.
Capt. Eben Bradbury was proposed for membership by Capt.
S. P. Bray.
Aug. 26, 1869, it was voted on motion of Capt. Varina, that
the matter of recommending Capt. Robinson of the tug boat
"Thurlow Weed" to be appointed an up river pilot be referred to
the committee on pilots to be reported upon at the next regular
meeting.
Capt. James Frank Tilton was proposed for membership by
Capt. S. P. Bray.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Samuel Nichols, at the time of his death, the oldest
member of this society, both in points of years and time of mem-
bership, departed this life the 4th day of Oct. 1869, aged 86 years,
and was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery.
Nov. 25, 1869, annual meeting. Officers elected:
Capt. Giles P. Stone, President.
Capt. William Graves, Vice President.
Capt. George Lunt, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles E. Bayley, Secretary.
25O RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Finance committee :
Capt. Robert Bayley,
Capt. Edmund Pike,
Capt. Nicholas Varina,
Capt. S. P. Bray,
Capt. Joseph C. Hoyt.
Relief committee :
Capt. Samuel B. Pike,
Capt. George Pierce,
Capt. David P. Page,
Capt. George W. Hale,
Capt. Jere Lunt.
Capt. John Simpson was re-elected for superintendent for the
year ensuing with the same compensation and duties as last year.
On motion afterwards of Capt. McKinney, it was voted, that the
salary of superintendent be increased $50, thereby making his sal-
ary $250. The vote was unanimous.
A communication was read from Mr. N. B. Lake claiming
damages for goods injured in his store by leakage of the back part
of the building, which was referred to the finance committee to
be reported upon at the adjourned meeting.
Capt. George T. Avery was proposed for membership by
Capt. Charles T. Smith.
Committee on affairs of pilots :
Capt. George Lunt,
Capt. N. S. Osgood,
Capt. S. P. Bray,
Capt. T. C. Simpson,
Capt. Thomas McKinney.
Voted, that the rooms of the society be kept open and warmed
at the expense of the society, every day, except Sunday, during
the coming winter.
Dec. 9, 1869, the finance committee reported that the funds of
the society amounted to $36,189.11.
The report of the relief committee recommending that the
sum of $1778 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
Voted, that the secretary prepare and have printed a paper
blank on which the society can return its thanks for articles con-
tributed to the Museum, the blank to be signed by the president
and secretary, and sealed with the seal of the society.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 251
Capt. Jere Lunt, in behalf of the pilots of Newburyport, re-
turned their thanks for the able and impartial manner in which the
affairs of the pilots have been conducted by the committee appoint-
ed for that purpose by this society.
Feb. 24, 1870, a petition from the merchants of this city in fa-
vor of the recommendation of E. Thurlow to be a branch pilot for
this port was presented, and after discussion it was voted to in-
definitely postpone the matter.
A remonstrance from the pilots was received and placed on
file.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Isaac N. Bray died April 16, 1870, and was buried at
Oak Hill Cemetery, April 20, aged 60 years. Twenty-nine mem-
bers of the society attended his funeral.
Capt. Robert Nowell died in Liverpool, May 14, 1870, aged
51 years.
May 26, 1870, in the absence of the chairman of the finance
committee, Capt. Varina of that committee submitted a majority
report on the matter of damage to be allowed to Mr. N. B. Lake to
the following effect viz : that Mr. Lake be allowed $50 as compen-
sation for damage to goods.
Capt. McKinney asked if the committee was pledged to Mr.
Lake in any sum, and moved and seconded by Capt. Osgood that
the amount be reduced to $25. Motion lost. After discussion by
several members the report of the committee was accepted and
adopted, 13 yeas, 5 nays.
Capt. George L. Rogers called the attention of the society to
the condition of a worthy member, Capt. Charles B. Stevens, he
being in very poor condition of health and needing the assistance
of the society.
Capt. Varina moved that he be placed upon the list of annual
pensioners and to receive pro rata the sum now paid to them from
this date to the time of the next annual meeting.
An amendment was offered by Capt. Couch that he should
receive a sum equal in amount to the largest now on the pension
list.
Capt. Rogers offered a further amendment, that the sum of
$50 be added to the previous amount making it equal to $176,
which amendment he afterwards withdrew, and the motion of Capt.
t$2 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Varina that he receive $90 with the added 40 per cent was carried
by an unanimous vote.
A petition from the merchants and others of this city was pre-
sented by Capt. Osgood in favor of the recommendation of E.
Thurlow to the Governor and Council as a suitable person to hold
a commission as a branch pilot for this port.
On motion of Capt. Varina, seconded by Capt. Osgood it was
voted that Capt. Edward Thurlow be recommended by this society
to the Governor and Council as a person in every way qualified
to hold a commission as a branch pilot for the port of Newbury-
port, 10 to 6.
Capt. Charles M. Bayley moved that the name of Capt. Wil-
liam Reed be before the society as a candidate for recommendation
for a commission as a branch pilot, to be acted upon at the next
annual meeting.
Capt. William Graves presented a loaf of cake won by the Ma-
rine Society at the "Old Ladies" fair.
It was voted that the society fully appreciate the compliment
paid to it by those wfhose votes secured for it the loaf of cake pre-
sented this evening by Capt. Graves.
Voted, that Capt. John Simpson cut that cake up tomorrow
morning and distribute it to the members present at this meeting.
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown proposed the name of Capt.
George P. Spalding for membership.
Aug. 25, 1870, the president called the attention of the meet-
ing to the condition of the sidewalk in front of the society's build-
ing, stating that the owners of the neighboring property were
about substituting bricks for the flags now in use, which have be-
come much broken, and asking what action the society will take in
the matter.
Voted, that we concur with our neighbors in the matter of
substituting bricks for the flags now in use in front of the hall, and
that the supervision of the work be entrusted to the finance com-
mittee.
Capt. Charles E. Bayley proposed the name of Capt. Asa
Pearl as a candidate for membership.
Nov. 24, 1870, annual meeting. Officers elected:
Capt. Giles P. Stone, President.
Capt. William Graves, Vice President.
Capt. George Lunt, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles E. Bayley, Secretary.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 253
Finance committee :
Capt. Robert Bayley,
Capt. Edmund Pike,
Capt. N. Varina,
Capt. S. P. Bray
Capt. Joseph C. Hoyt.
Relief committee :
Capt. S. B. Pike,
Capt. George Pierce,
Capt. D. P. Page,
Capt. Jere Lunt,
Capt. Edward Graves.
Capt. William Graves in behalf of the pilots of this port, ten-
dered their thanks to the gentlemen composing the committee on
"Affairs of Pilots," with the request from them that the same per-
sons be appointed to serve as that committee, and the following
were appointed:
Affairs of Pilots :
Capt. George Lunt,
Capt. N. S. Osgood,
Capt. S. P. Bray,
Capt. T. C. Simpson,
Capt. Thomas McKinney.
Capt. John Simpson was elected superintendent with a salary
of $300.
Voted, that Captains George F. Avery, George P. Spalding,
Asa Pearl, be recorded as members of this society.
Dec. 8, 1870, the finance committee reported that the funds
of the society amounted to $37,406.70.
The report of the relief committee recommending that the
sum of $1778 be paid to the beneficiaries, be accepted.
The matter of Capt. William Reed, brought up from the May
meeting, on motion of Capt. Osgood, was laid upon the table.
March 4, 1871, special meeting.
The president stated the object of calling the meeting which
was to give the president and treasurer the power to exchange
quit claim deeds with the owners of the property next above to a
portion of the entry way between the two properties, which is now
held in common as no such power is vested according to the by-
254 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
laws in any of the officers or committees, and a vote of the society
was necessary to legalize the transaction. The deed was then
read and on motion of Capt. C. M. Bayley, seconded by several, it
was voted that the quit claim deed just read by the president, be
exchanged with the owners of the property next above for a sim-
ilar one from them, and that the president and treasurer be em-
powered to sign it in behalf of the society.
A letter was read from Mrs. M. B. Macy, and it was voted
that it be laid over until the regular meeting.
May 25, 1871, the communication from Mrs. Mary B. Macy,
which was laid over from the special meeting, was read by the
president and laid before the society for action.
Voted, that the sum of $35 with the addition of 40 per cent be
appropriated for the assistance of the children of the late Capt.
Charles Hale. Vote was unanimous.
Nov. 30, 1871, annual meeting. Election of officers:
Capt. Giles P. Stone, President.
Capt. William Graves, Vice President.
Capt. George Lunt, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles E. Bayley, Secretary.
Fianance committee:
Capt. Robert Bayley,
Capt. N. Varina,
Capt. S. P. Bray,
Capt. Joseph Hoyt,
Capt. N. S. Osgood.
Relief committee :
Capt. George Pierce,
Capt. Charles T. Smith,
Capt. E. E. Hale,
Capt. R. Pettingell,
Capt. W. H. Bayley.
Capt. John Simpson was elected superintendent of the hall
with a salary of $300.
On motion of Capt. Osgood, it was voted that the superin-
tendent be instructed to have a new covering put upon the table
in the hall and the treasurer be authorized to pay the bill.
Dec. 14, 1871, the finance committee reported that the funds
of the society amounted to $38,068.93.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 255
The relief committee report recommending that the sum of
$1804 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
Voted, that Capt. Charles B. Stevens be remitted all fines and
dues now charged against him, and that he be excused from pay-
ing any in the future.
Capt. N. S. Osgood offered some highly interesting and in-
structing remarks upon the report of the finance committee calling
the attention of the younger members to the largeness of the
amount of the fund of the society in comparison with what it was
when he became a member some forty-two years ago, and that
this increase was in a great measure due to the financial ability
and good judgment of the gentlemen who have at various times
served the society as members of the financial committee.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Frederick W. Carter died at .Bordeau, France, Oct. 6,
1871, aged 59 years.
Feb. 29, 1872, in consequence of some remarks by Capt. N. S.
Osgood in regard to the law whereby charitable institutions are
taxed, on motion of Capt. N. Varina, seconded by others, it was
voted that the secretary be instructed to draw up a petition to the
legislature asking for a repeal of or modification in the law where-
by charitable institutions are taxed, and that the petition be signed
by all the members of the society and presented to the legislature
by our representative, Hon. William Cushing.
May 30, 1872, on motion of Capt. Varina, the following gen-
tlemen were appointed a committee to report at the next meeting
upon the matter of a celebration of the forthcoming centennial of
the society, viz: Captains N. Varina, S. P. Bray, N. S. Osgood,
Albert Cheever, David P. Page.
On motion of Capt. Varina, a committee consisting of Capt.
George Pierce, Capt. William H. Bayley, Capt. Charles T. Smith,
Capt. Richard Pettingell, and Capt. J. C. Hoyt, were appointed to
attend to the subject of procuring the photographs of all the past
and present members of the society and report at the next meet-
ing.
Capt. Charles A. Chase and Capt. Willam I. Burnham were
proposed for membership by Capt. Jere Lunt.
256 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
OBITUARY.
Capt. George L. Rogers died at home, March 28, 1872, aged
65 years, and was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery, 22 members of the
society attending his funeral.
Aug. 29, 1872, the report of the committee on the celebration
of the coming centennial was read and accepted, afterwards
amended and adopted as amended .
It was voted that the committee of managements consist of
the same committee chosen at the last meeting, with the addition
of the secretary and treasurer and that Capt. N. S. Osgood be the
chairman of the committee.
On motion of Capt. Varina, seconded by Capt. McKinney, it
was voted that the funds necessary to carry into effect the report
of the committee on the celebration of the centennial be drawn
from the treasury of the society.
Report of the committee on Centennial Celebration:
Newbury port, Aug. 29, 1872.
The committee chosen at the last meeting, May 30th, to con-
sider the propriety of celebrating the one hundredth anniversary
of the Newburyport Marine Society, would recommend that the
members and their wives and children be invited to a dinner and
an evening entertainment to come off on the 5th of November next
ensuing. The committee suppose the number of members that
will attend will be 50, the wives of members and past members 50,
and the children of present and past members 50, making a total
of 150 persons.
Respectfully submitted,
N. VARINA,
ALBERT CHEEVER,
S. P. BRAY,
DAVID P. PAGE,
N. S. OSGOOD,
Committee.
Amended on motion of Capt. N. S. Osgood by omitting the
children from the dinner and inviting them to an entertainment in
the evening.
The committee chosen at the last meeting to enquire into the
matter of procuring the photographs of the past and present
members of the society, made a verbal report which was accepted
and adopted to the effect, that about 48 pictures of past members
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 257
and about 78 of present members could be procured and that they
could be furnished, framed and completed for about $125.
It was voted on motion of Capt. Varina, that the same com-
mittee be empowered to carry the report into effect, the necessary
funds to do so to be drawn from the treasury of the society. The
chairman of the committee, Capt. George Pierce declined serving
further on the committee and Capt. Thomas McKinney was
chosen in his stead. Capt. John Simpson was also added to the
committee.
A petition addressed to the committee on pilots signed by va-
rious citizens and approbated by three of said committee asking
for the recommendation to the Governor and Council of William
Reed, Samuel S. Short, J. R. Thurlow, Benjamin Pettingell, Wil-
liam Perkins and S. S. Short, Jr., as suitable persons to hold com-
missions as branch pilots for this port was read.
On motion of Capt. C. M. Bayley, it was voted that the pilot
committee retire and select three names from those mentioned in
the petition, and they selected William Reed, J. R. Thurlow and
Benjamin Pettingell to be recommended to the Governor and
Council, which selection was approved by a unanimous vote.
Capt. C. M. Bayley proposed as a candidate, Capt. J. N.
Hughes.
Capt. S. P. Bray proposed as a candidate, Capt. George L.
Bray.
Capt. Jere Lunt proposed as a candidate, Capt. George W.
Knight.
During a discussion of the question whether or not a person
not a resident of Newburyport or vicinity was eligible for mem-
bership, the president ruled that according to the bye-laws of the
society it was not necessary for a candidate to be a resident of
Newburyport or vicinity.
Exceptions being taken to the ruling on motion of Capt. Os-
good, a vote was taken upon the subject and the ruling of the pres-
ident was sustained by a unanimous vote.
Oct. 10, 1872, on motion of Capt. Varina, seconded by several
other members, it was voted that the votes passed at the last meet-
ing in relation to the celebration of the coming centennial be re-
considered, 18 yeas 6 nays.
It was voted on motion of Capt. Couch, seconded by others
that a dinner be provided for the members only, and an evening
17-a
258 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
entertainment for the members with their wives and children over
ten years of age, also the widows and children of deceased mem-
bers, and that no invitation be extended to any person not included
in those specified above, 14 yeas, 4 nays.
Voted, that the centennial committee have full powers to pro-
vide the dinner and the evening entertainment.
Voted unanimously, that the celebration be held on the 13th
of November, proximo.
Captains George Lunt and S. P. Bray were excused at their
own request from serving any further on the celebration commit-
tee, and Capt. Robert Couch and Capt. Joseph C. Hoyt were elect-
ed in their stead.
Voted, that the centennial committee be authorized to draw
upon the treasurer for the funds required to defray the expenses of
the celebration, 20 yeas, o nays.
Centennial Celebration, November 13, 1872.
In accordance with a vote of the society passed at the quart-
erly meeting in May and August and also the special meeting in
October, the one hundredth anniversary of the institution of this
society was celebrated in the following manner, Captains N. S.
Osgood, N. Varina, Albert Cheever, Robert Couch, Joseph C.
Hoyt, and Charles E. Bayley, constituting the committee of ar-
rangements.
The society met at the Merrimac House in Newburyport at 3
o'clock p. m., and partook of a dinner at which were present the
Hon. Caleb Gushing as invited guest and the following named
members.
Capts. N. S. Osgood, Micajah Lunt, George Lunt, Giles P.
Stone, John Simpson, Robert Bayley, C. M. Bayley, A. Knapp,
William Graves, S. P. Bray, T. C. Simpson, Fred Moore, Robert
Couch, N. Varina, George Pierce, Thomas McKinney, Charles E.
Bayley, E. E. Hale, J. B. Brown, D. P. Page, R. Pettingell, Wil-
liam Reed, William H. Bayley, Joseph A. Janvrin, J. F. Tilton
George W. Hale, Albert Cheever, Charles T. Smith, George W.
Knight, Jere Lunt, Joseph C. Hoyt, Charles E. Coker, E. J. Pike
J. N. Pritchard, R. B. Pender.
The blessing being invoked by the chaplain, Capt. Robert
Bayley, the president read an address containing a concise history
of the society commencing at its foundation and tracing its prog-
ress to the present time (a copy of which is filed with other docu-
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 259
ments and papers pertaining to the celebration) after which the
company proceeded to the discussion of the "wants of the inner
man," the materials for which were provided in ample abundance
and were done full justice to. The time was interspersed with
toasts and remarks by the Hon. Caleb Cushing, N. S. Osgood, and
other members until 5 o'clock, when the company broke up to
meet again in the City Hall at 7.30 o'clock in the evening, where an
entertainment was provided for the members with their families
and the widows and children of deceased members.
The evening entertainment was quite fully attended and the
time passed very pleasantly in social intercourse, dancing, and a
visit to the refreshment room, which was kept up into the small
hours when all separated with hearty good wishes for the welfare
of the society, and trusting that its record for the next century will
be in every way worthy of that which it has exhibited in the one
just completed.
Nov. 28, 1872, annual meeting. Election of officers:
Capt. Giles P. Stone, President.
Capt. William Graves, Vice President.
Capt. George Lunt, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles E. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Robert Bayley,
Capt. N. Varina,
Capt. S. P. Bray,
Capt. Joseph C. Hoyt,
Capt. N. S. Osgood.
Relief committee :
Capt. Fred Moore,
Capt. Charles T. Smith,
Capt. E. E. Hale,
Capt. R. Pettingell,
Capt. W. H. Bayley.
Capt. John Simpson was unanimously elected superintendent
of rooms with a salary of $300.
Voted, the admission fee be the same as last year, viz: forty
dollars in currency with the addition of one dollar for every year
over thirty in the age of the candidate, age to be reckoned at the
time of application.
2DO RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
The centennial committee made a verbal report that the cost
of the celebration was $439.
The president read a communication from Capt. William H.
Brown of New York in answer to an invitation to attend the cen-
tennial celebration, and it was voted that the thanks of this society
be tendered to Capt. W. H. Brown for his generous donation of
$50 to cheer the Thanksgiving dinner of the widows and orphans
of this society.
Voted, that Capt. William I. Burnham be admitted a member.
Voted, that Capt. Charles A. Chase be admitted a member.
Voted, that Capt. Joseph W. Hughes be admitted a member
Voted, that Capt. George L. Bray be admitted a member.
Voted, that Capt. George W. Knight be admitted a member.
Voted, that the chair appoint a committee to obtain the print-
ing of 125 copies of the Acts of incorporation and by-laws with
marginal references and to contain all the amendments made since
the last issue, and the chair appointed the secretary, Capt. S. P.
Bray and Capt. Robert Couch.
Capt. Robert Bayley presented to the society in behalf of Capt.
R. A. Bayley of Washington, D. C, an elaborate and costly roll of
members, executed solely with the pen and containing the names
of every member since the institution of the society, which was
unanimously accepted, and it was voted that the thanks of the so-
ciety be tendered to Capt. R. A. Bayley for the donation of a mag-
nificent roll of membership, also that the vote be recorded upon
the books of the society and a copy sent to Capt. Bayley.
A vote of thanks was tendered to the committee of arrange-
ments for celebrating the centennial and the satisfactory manner
in which the affair was conducted.
Capt. T. H. Boardman was proposed by Capt. T. C. Simpson.
Capt. Charles W. Reed was proposed by Capt. T. Mackinney.
Dec. 12, 1872, voted, that an additional insurance of $1500 be
effected upon the building of the society and $1000 additional upon
the furniture and other contents.
The finance committee reported that the funds of the society
amounted to $38,553.56.
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$1685 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 261
Pilot committee chosen :
Capt. N. Varina,
Capt. Thomas Mackinney,
Capt. Fred Moore,
Capt. R. Pettingell,
Capt. Joseph C. Hoyt.
Voted, that the sureties on the bonds of William Reed, Joseph
R. Thurlow and Benjamin Pettingell, lately commissioned as
branch pilots for this port, be approved by the signatures of the
president and secretary.
IRewburigport IKeralft,
THURSDAY MORNING, NOVEMBER 14, 1872.
ANNIVERSARY OF THE MARINE SOCIETY.
Wednesday was the one hundredth anniversary of the forma-
tion of the Newburyport Marine Society, and was celebrated by the
members with a dinner at the Merrimac House and a ball in the
evening at City Hall. On the 5th of November, 1772, Capts.
Thomas Jones, William Wyer, Benjamin Rogers, Samuel Newhall,
Michael Hodge and Edward Wigglesworth, met at the house of
Capt. Rogers, where it was decided to form the society under the
name of the "Marine Society of Newburyport." Accordingly the
society was formally inaugurated on the 13th of the same month
with 19 members at the first meeting.
Captains Thomas Jones, William Wyer, Benjamin Rogers,
Samuel Newhall, Michael Hodge, Edward Wigglesworth, James
Hudson, Jonathan Parsons, Jr., Henry Friend, David Coats, Jo-
seph Noyes, William Coombs, Joseph Rowe, Thomas Thomas,
William Friend, Joseph Newman, William P. Johnson, Anthony
Knapp, Eleazer Johnson, Jr.
The first officers were :
Capt. James Hudson, Master.
Capt. Henry Friend, Deputy Master.
Capt. William Coombs, Treasurer.
Capt. Samuel Newhall, Clerk.
The society has increased and prospered ever since its forma-
tion and now numbers 74 members and has on its roll of members
during its entire history the names of many honored citizens of
17-b
262 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Newburyport and there is hardly a family of long standing here
but is represented on the list.
Many of the sea captains have become merchants and settling
here, have in a large measure made the prosperity of the city. The
society has always been an influential body from the respectability
of its members, their wealth and intelligence. The act of incorpo-
ration was granted in 1777 by the Legislature of Massachusetts,
and in the preamble is expressed the objects for which the society
exists, these are to improve the knowledge of this coast, by the
several members upon their arrival from sea, communicating their
observations, inwards and outwards, of the variation of the needle,
soundings, courses, distances, and all other remarkable things
about it in writing, to be lodged with the society for making the
navigation more safe, and also to relieve one another and their
families in poverty or other adverse accidents of life which they are
more particularly liable to. These objects are important and the
society has been useful both in the improvement of the knowledge
of members and in the assistance of those who have fallen into dis-
tress.
Since its inauguration there have been 293 members, of whom
74 still survive. The names of all the members from the beginning
to the present time with the data of their election are given in the
roll book.
At the society's rooms on Wednesday, the centennial, the por-
traits of all the living members and as many of those who have
passed away as could be obtained, were hung in a magnificent
frame, six feet and four inches, by five feet, eight inches and cost-
ing upwards of two hundred dollars. There are 150 portraits all
taken by Mr. Hiram P. Macintosh, photographer, many of them
from life and others from paintings, and all highly creditable to
the skill and taste of Mr. Macintosh.
The portraits are shown upon one piece of paper of the entire
size of the frame, manufactured expressly for this purpose. In the
four corners are the four present officers of the society, Giles P.
Stone, President, William Graves, Vice President, Charles E. Bay-
ley, Secretary, George Lunt, Treasurer. The glass plate covering
the portraits cost upwards of $50 and the whole forms a handsome
ornament to the rooms and a fine memorial of those members
Whose portraits are there. The two members of longest standing
are Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood and Capt. Dennis Condry. The
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 263
dinner at the Merrimac House was the most exclusive public affair
that ever took place in this city, 40 members sat down to dinner,
viz:
Capts. Giles P. Stone, William Graves, George Lunt, Charles
E. Bayley, N. S. Osgood, Micajah Lunt, Anthony Knapp, S. P.
Bray, T. C. Simpson, John Simpson, Robert Bayley, Charles M>
Bayley, Fred Moore, Robert Couch, N. Varina, George Pierce,
George W. Hale, Albert Cheever, C. T. Smith, George W. Knight,
Thomas Mackinney, Jere Lunt, Joseph C. Hoyt, Charles E. Coker.
E. E. Hale, J. B. Brown, D. P. Page, R. Pettingell, William Reed;
E. J. Pike, W. H. Bayley, John N. Pritchard, Joseph A. Janvrin,
R. B. Pender, James F. Tilton and one guest only was invited,
Hon. Caleb Cushing. Capt. Robert Bayley acted as chaplain. The
President, Giles P. Stone, made a brief address. Hon. Caleb
Cushing also spoke a few words. Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood made
the following historical address after the dinner :
Gentlemen: — The social gathering of tonight is to celebrate
the one hundredth anniversary of the founding of the Marine So-
ciety of Newburyport and to promote by social intercourse the
good feeling that has always existed among us. The organiza-
tion of the society was no doubt prompted by the founding of a
similar one in Salem the year previous, and their code of by-laws
was in the main adopted by this society. As there are, no doubt,
many members present who are not conversant with the early rec-
ords, I have made a few extracts which with your permission I will
read.
The main object of the society was to relieve one another and
their families in poverty or other adverse accidents of life, which
they are more particularly liable to. Although the charter says
the principal end of said society being to improve the knowledge
of this coast and for making the navigation more safe, I do not
find by the records that they accomplished much. A committee
was appointed to ascertain the exact position of Breaking Rock
near the entrance of the harbor. In 1796 a committee was ap-
pointed to be very particular in the examination of a book of sail-
ing directions by Capt. Furlong. It is not, I believe, generally
known, that Capt. Furlong sold his book to Edmund M. Blunt.
This was the original of what is now styled the "American Coast
Pilot," by Edmund M. Blunt.
One hundred years ago 19 shipmasters paid a guinea each into
264 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
the box, signed by-laws, agreed to observe and maintain the same.
The original by-laws have been several times amended or ex-
punged to suit the spirit of the times. At first the expenses were
to be paid out of the pockets of the members. They were required
to break up at nine o'clock in winter and to meet monthly. If they
made a successful voyage they were to put into the box 8 pence
per month for the time absent. One of the by-laws forbids the play-
ing of cards, dice or any other gaming, and to avoid all quarrels or
needless debates that may tend to create animosity or disturb the
good order, friendship and love that each member should bear to
each other.
Article 13th says if any member should be a common drunk-
ard, quarrelsome, or disturber of the peace and good order of the
society, or be guilty of any other vice, a majority of the society
may discharge him at their annual meeting and he shall be ex-
cluded from the benefit of the box unless he be reclaimed and
again admitted to the society. If any member shall be guilty of
profane swearing or cursing he shall pay into the box two shillings.
Article 3rd says that profound silence, order and decorum
shall be strictly observed at the meetings, and but one member
shall speak at a time.
In 1780 it was found necessary to revise the whole code of by-
laws, and it was voted to pay eight pence hard money or eight dol-
lars paper money monthly dues, thus a penny silver was equal to a
dollar paper.
In the early years of the society the penalties for non-observ-
ance of the by-laws appear to have been vigorously exacted and
the names of those marked expelled or disfranchised were mostly
thus marked for non-observance or neglect of the same. I find
that as late as 1830 the society petitions the legislature stating that
originally the names of the first four officers of the society were
entitled Master, Deputy Master, Treasurer and Clerk, and praying
that the first four officers of the society may be called by the more
republican and appropriate style and title of President, Vice Presi-
dent, Treasurer and Secretary, the members of the society ac-
knowledging no master but the Supreme Ruler of the universe, to
whom they bow with humility and reverence.
In the last century disputes often arose as to which society,
the Marine Society or the Masons, were entitled to the right in
funeral processions. It was compromised for awhile by granting
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 265
the right to that society of which the deceased had been longest
a member.
Twenty gentlemen organized this society one hundred years
ago tonight, and I am proud to say that their successors have been
true to the trust bequeathed them in promoting the advancement
and preservation of the society. The society seems to have abjured
all aid from show, banners, music or regalia. We have never re-
ceived a dollar from parties outside of the society with the excep-
tion of a bequest of Capt. Joseph P. Russell, a member of the
society, of two thousand dollars. We have not, like kindred so-
cieties, a long record of donors to our funds, but all things consid-
ered, I think we have done well to have accumulated a fund as
charged on our books of $38,000, the market value is much more,
and now gentlemen, what have been the results of this organiza-
tion.
In the first place there can be no doubt that the influence of
the society has operated for the individual good of the members,
and from the commencement to this day every call for aid from
the society has been considered and many a heart made glad by
contributions from the box. Upwards of $40,000 have been dis-
tributed, we are now distributing from $1800 to $2000 annually,
and I will here remark (with a view to show the importance of ship
masters becoming members) that one widow has received more
than $3000. Outside of their aid to one another and their families,
the doings of the society have not been unimportant. In the early
years of the society they no doubt felt the importance of mutual
aid in case of fire, and in 1775 they organized themselves into a
fire company, an entire separate and distinct company from the
Marine Society. The fire company existed for sixty-three years
and was dissolved in 1837. I well remember their ladders and fire
hooks, buckets and bags, paid for by themselves. Their ladders
were distributed in different places and kept in order.
In 1783 the society erected two beacons on Plumb Island as a
guide by day and employed persons to hoist lanterns as a guide by
night, and a code of signals to indicate vessels standing into the
bay.
In 1774 the merchants agreed to take the lights under their
direction and made provision therefor by assessing light money on
the vessel arriving. In 1787 they voted to build two huts on Plum
Island for the protection of shipwrecked mariners. The expense
266 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
L22-6-S was assessed on the members. They have often
been called upon to give their opinion on various subjects relating
to their profession. Of the 293 members whose names are on rec-
ord, 70 still survive. The average age of the deceased so far as
known is within a very small fraction of 60 years.
Such, my friends, is a brief history of the Marine Society of
Newburyport, and so long as it exists in its present integrity, may
God bless it.
For the ball in the evening, City Hall was very tastefully
decorated with flags and streamers of every nation, arranged by
the members. Upon the rostrum was an arch twelve feet high, il-
luminated with gas jets, surmounted by an anchor and pendant,
from the key of the arch in illuminated letters was "Marine Society
1772," the whole formed by 1500 gas jets arranged by Mr. Charles
R. Sargent. Beneath the arch upon the platform, enclosed in an
elegant frame 41-2 feet by 3 Was the roll of the members, date of
its organization and the date of its centennial celebration neatly
executed by a pen and as beautiful as steel plate engraving. At
either side of the door were signal lights burning and the entire
arrangements at the hall were handsome and appropriate to the
occasion.' The ball was attended by members and their families
and the children of deceased members and their families. It was
considered the most elegant public ball ever given in this city. The
music was by Hook & Payson's Quadrille Band of Haverhill, and a
fine collation was served under the charge of George W. Austin.
Feb. 27, 1873, the committee to whom was referred the matter
of procuring a new edition of the book of by-laws, reported that it
would not be practicable to print one containing marginal refer-
ences without enlarging it so as to make it cumbersome, and on
motion, it was voted that so much of the vote passed at the annual
meeting as refers to marginal references be abolished.
April 10, 1873, special meeting.
Before proceeding to the business for which the meeting was
called, the president read a communication from Mrs. John Mussey
of Portland, Me., donating $500 to the funds of the society. It was
unanimously voted that the donation be accepted by the society
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT
267
and the following named members were appointed to draw up
suitable resolutions in reference to said communication, viz:
Capt. N. S. Osgood,
Capt. Charles M. Bayley,
Capt. William Graves,
and after retiring they made the following report, which was unani-
mously accepted and adopted :
JX±=
^
Donation.
Mrs. John Mussey,
of Portland, Maine,
on the 10th of April, 1873,
presented this Society
500 dollars.
t^
xxs
^3
Whereas, Mrs. John Mussey, of Portland, Me., formerly of
this city, in a letter to a member of this society expresses the high
opinion she entertains of the usefulness of the institution by for-
warding her check for $500 as a contribution to its funds to aid in
a small degree its efforts to relieve the unfortunate.
It is therefore resolved, that this society accept the liberal do-
nation of Mrs. Mussey with gratitude, and the secretary is direct-
ed to express our thanks with the assurance that we shall consider
the gift a sacred trust for the purpose above mentioned.
Resolved, that the above resolutions be entered on the records
and a copy forwarded to the donor.
The society then proceeded to the business for which the
meeting was called.
Capt. N. Varina, chairman of the committee on affairs of
pilots, read a petition from three of the pilots addressed to that
268 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
committee, and also the report of the committee, which report was
not satisfactory to the opposite party of pilots, and they with the
sanction of the committee referred the decision of the point in dis-
pute to a full meeting of the members of the society, the committee
decided that in accordance with their interpretation of the law, the
pilot who first boards the vessel is the one to whom the charge is
to be given and to whom the pilotage is to be paid. The remon-
strants contended that the pilot who first speaks a vessel is the
one to whom the charge and pilotage is due.
After a lengthy discussion entered into by Capt. Varina,
Capt. Simpson, Capt. Bray, Capt. Bayley, Capt. Couch, Capt.
Brown, during which Capt. S. P. Bray read a deposition from Pi-
lots Edward Thurlow and Jacob B. Chase ; on motion of Capt.
Couch, seconded by Capt. S. P. Bray, it was voted that the pilot,
Edward Thurlow, who first spoke the schooner Burdett Hart, be
entitled to the pilotage; yeas 17, nays 8. Capt. Varina stated that
in a similar case he should always decide as he had decided in this
which decision was not sustained by the society, he felt called upon
to resign his position upon the pilot committee, which he accord-
ingly did. His resignation was accepted by the society, as also
that of the other members of the committee, Capts. Moore, Pettin-
gell and Hoyt, who also resigned.
It was voted that Messrs. R. Bayley & Sons, with whom was
deposited the amount of pilotage of schooner Burdett Hart be au-
thorized to pay the same to Edward Thurlow, who brought her in.
Capt. Robert Bayley gave notice that as the meeting has de-
cided, that in all matters relating to pilots' affairs, merchants and
captains are bound to comply with the letter of the law, the firm
of which he was the head would after this time pay for pilotage
and fees only such rates as the law has prescribed without regard
to the additional 30 per cent recommended by this society by a
vote passed Aug. 25, 1864 as per record.
Capt. Couch stated that at the next annual meeting he should
move that no members of this society be made a pilot through the
recommendation of the society.
Capt. Varina stated that at the next meeting he should move
to separate pilot matters from the business of the society.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Samuel B. Pike died at home, May 21, 1873, aged 51
years, and was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery, 23 members of the
society attending his funeral.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 269
OBITUARY.
Capt. Charles B. Stevens died at home, July 9, 1873, aged 45
years, 1 1-2 months, and was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery, 16
members of the society attending his funeral.
May 29, 1873, voted, that the thanks of the society be ten-
dered to the committee who had charge of the matter of printing
a new edition of the by-laws.
Voted, that the widows of deceased members who may so de-
sire, be supplied with a copy of the new book.
Voted, that in all cases where petitions are presented to the
society for approbating pilots for this port, that the same shall be
laid upon the table for three months.
June 26, 1873, special meeting.
The call for the meeting was read by the president, also an
affidavit signed by the Captain and Mate of the schooner Mary
Means was handed in by Capt. Mackinney in behalf of the pilots
attached to pilot boat number 2.
After some discussion, on motion of Capt. Osgood, it was
voted that the pilot who first spoke the schooner Mary Means is
entitled to the pilotage, yea 9, nay o, not voting 7.
The president read a letter from Capt. Jere Lunt which con-
tained the pilotage fees in dispute, and according to the above
vote, the money was directed to be paid over to Capt. J. R. Thur-
low, he being the pilot who first spoke the vessel.
Aug. 28, 1873, Capt. S. P. Bray, Jr., was proposed for mem-
bership by Capt. S. P. Bray.
Capt. Fred A. Kezer was proposed for membership by Capt.
S. P. Bray.
Capt. Henry W. Lunt was proposed for membership by Capt.
George W. Knight.
On motion of Capt. Osgood, a committee of three was ap-
pointed by the chair to prepare a device to be placed in front of
the society's building and to report at the annual meeting. Capts.
N. S. Osgood, Robert Couch, and J. C. Hoyt were appointed as
that committee.
OBITUARY.
Capt. John H. Spring died at home, Nov. 14, 1873, aged J2>
years, and was buried at Belleville Cemetery. The society did not
attend the funeral.
270
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
OBITUARY.
Capt. Edward Graves was lost at sea in ship Tennyson, Feb.
23, 1873, Lat. 26° S., Long. 230 E., on the passage from Calcutta
to Boston, aged 42 years.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Asa Pearl died at Para, S. A., Nov. 14, 1873, aged 53
years.
Nov. 27, 1873, annual meeting. Officers elected:
Capt. Giles P. Stone, President.
Capt. William Graves, Vice President.
Capt. George Lunt, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles E. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Robert Bayley,
Capt. N. Varina,
Capt. S. P. Bray,
Capt. J. C. Hoyt,
Capt. N. S. Osgood.
Relief committee :
Capt. Fred Moore,
Capt. Charles T. Smith,
Capt. E. E. Hale,
Capt. Richard Pettingell,
Capt. W. H. Bayley.
r^
JXL
^d
Bequest.
$L*
Miss Lucy M. Follansbee,
daughter of
Captain Thomas M. Follansbee,
died Nov. 8th, 1873, and
bequeathed to the Society
2000 dollars.
\X3
^3
CAPT. STEPHEN P. BRAY.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT
271
Capt. John Simpson was unanimously elected as superintend-
ent, salary $300.
Captains Thomas H. Boardman, Charles W. Reed, Stephen
P. Bray, Jr., Frederick A. Kezar, Henry W. Lunt were recorded
as members.
The committee to whom was referred the matter of placing a
device on the front of the society's buildings, submitted a draft of
what they thought would be suitable, the merits of which were dis-
cussed and the whole matter was referred to the committee, giving
them full power to act according to their best judgment.
Dec. 11, 1873, the finance committee reported that the funds
of the society amounted to $40,018.23.
The report of the relief committee recommending that the
sum of $1510 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Micajah Lunt, one of the oldest members, and for
twenty years, 1842 to 1862, the president of this society, died at
home, Jan. 8, 1874, aged jy years, 8 months, 14 days, and was bur-
ied at Oak Hill Cemetery. The society did not attend the funeral.
IXL
Bequest.
"3
Hon. Micajah Lunt,
a member of the
Marine Society
Forty-three years, twenty of which
he was president,
died Jan. 8th, 1874, aged yy,
bequeathed to the Society
2000 dollars.
TXJ
^3
27* RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
OBITUARY.
Capt. David P. Page died at home, Jan. 23, 1874, aged 37
years, 6 months, and was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery. The so-
ciety did not attend the funeral.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Jeremiah Lunt died at home, Feb. 16, 1874, aged 63
years and was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery, 19 members of the so-
ciety attending the funeral.
Feb. 26, 1874, on motion of T. C. Simpson, seconded by oth-
ers, it was voted that the finance committee be empowered and in-
structed to have prepared and hung in the hall of the society, me-
morial tablets identical with the one now hanging there, dedicated
to Capt. Joseph P. Russell, in honor to all persons making dona-
tions to the funds of this society.
May 28, 1874, a communication from Capt. H. B. Lake of
schooner Isaac L. Clark was read, and it was voted that it be laid
on the table.
Aug. 27, 1874, it was voted that when the petition of W. H.
Jewett of Ipswich for an appointment as a branch pilot for the port
of Ipswich is properly addressed to the society, the secretary is
authorized to approbate him to the Governor and Council in behalf
of the society.
Capt. J. H. Stanley was proposed for membership by Capt.
Fred Moore.
Capt. Richard Newhall was proposed for membership by
Capt. S. P. Bray.
Nov. 26, 1874, election of officers :
Capt. Giles P. Stone, President.
Capt. William Graves, Vice President.
Capt. George Lunt, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles E. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee:
Capt. Robert Bayley,
Capt. N. Varina,
Capt. S. P. Bray,
Capt. Joseph C. Hoyt,
Capt. N. S. Osgood.
CAPT. RICHARD NEWELL.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 273
Relief committee :
Capt. Fred Moore,
Capt. Charles T. Smith,
Capt. R. Pettingell,
Capt. W. H. Bayley,
Capt. W. H. Lunt.
Capt. John Simpson was elected superintendent.
Captains Charles H. Colby, James H. Stanley and Richard
Newell were admitted as members.
Dec. 10, 1874, the finance committee reported that the funds
of the society amounted to $45,918.68 par value, market value
$51,711.68.
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$1900 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
Feb. 25, 1875, the president read the petition of George F.
Woodman for approbation as a branch pilot for the harbor of
Newburyport. The petition was laid on the table in accordance
v/ith a vote passed at a meeting held May 29, 1873.
May 27, 1875, voted, that the petition of George F. Woodman
be taken from the table and that the petitioner have leave to with-
draw.
Aug. 26, 1875, voted, that the president be authorized to sign
in behalf of the society, a petition to the light house board for hav-
ing a bell placed upon the outer buoy at the entrance of the New-
buryport harbor.
Capt. N. S. Osgood was requested to draw up the above
mentioned petition.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Edmund Pike died at home, Oct. 9, 1875, aged 82 years,
and was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery, 20 members of the society
attending the funeral.
Nov. 25, 1875, annual meeting. Election of officers :
Capt. Giles P. Stone, President.
Capt. William Graves, Vice President.
Capt. George Lunt, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles E. Bayley, Secretary.
18-a
*74 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Finance committee :
Capt Robert Bayley,
Capt. N. Varina,
Capt. S. P. Bray,
Capt. Joseph C. Hoyt,
Capt. N. S. Osgood.
Relief committee :
Capt. Fred Moore,
Capt. Richard Pettingell,
Capt. Edmund S. Raynes,
Capt. Ebenezer Bradbury,
Capt. J. R.Tilton.
Capt. John Simpson was elected superintendent.
Voted, that the vote passed at the last meeting in relation to
placing a bell upon the buoy outside of Newburyport bar, be re-
considered.
Voted, that the president be authorized to sign in behalf of
the society a petition addressed to the proper authorities request-
ing to have a bell buoy substituted for the one now in use outside
of Newburyport bar, and that the secretary draw up the petition.
Dec. 9, 1875, the committee reported that the funds of the so-
ciety amounted to $47,199.91. Accepted.
The report of the relief committee recommending that the sum
of $2400 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
Capt. N. S. Osgood delivered some interesting remarks in re-
gard to the financial condition of the society and stated that the
finance committee had ordered the treasurer to notify the tenant of
the store below that his rent would be $400 per annum in lieu of
$350 per annum, which he now pays, upon giving the customary
three months' notice, which action of the finance committee was
endorsed by a unanimous vote of the meeting.
Feb. 24, 1876, voted, that the president be authorized to sign
in behalf of the society, a petition to have a light ship, with steam
for whistle, placed on the Stellwagens Bank in Massachusetts Bay.
May 25, 1876, the president read petitions from Messrs. W. H.
Jewett and E. J. Grant, both of Ipswich, requesting the society to
approbate them as suitable persons to hold commissions as branch
pilots for the port of Ipswich, Mass. After some discussion of the
point as to whether or not the society was required or competent
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 275
to act upon the subject, the matter was referred to a committee of
three, viz: Captains N. S. Osgood, N. Varina and Thomas Mac-
kinney, with full powers to act if the sanction of the society was
found necessary.
The following resolutions upon the death of Capt. Giles P.
Stone, late president of the society, were then read and unanimous-
ly adopted.
Whereas, in the Providence of God, our worthy president has
been removed from us by death since our last meeting ;
Therefore be it resolved, that in the death of our friend and
associate, Capt. Giles P. Stone, our society has lost a valued mem-
ber and an efficient and courteous presiding officer.
Resolved, that while in common with our fellow citizens we
shall always remember the admirable qualities that distinguished
him as a citizen and a man, we wish here especially to express
our high appreciation of him as a member .of this society and for
many years its presiding officer.
Resolved, that these resolutions be entered upon our records
and a copy thereof forwarded to the family of the deceased as a
token of our sympathy with them in their affliction.
Capt. William Graves was appointed to act as president until
the annual meeting.
Capt. Nathaniel Osgood was appointed to act as vice presi-
dent until the annual meeting.
On motion of Capt. Thomas Mackinney, it was voted that a
flag staff be erected upon the society's building, and Capts. Mac-
kinney and Moore were appointed a committee to carry the vote
into effect.
The president stated that he had signed in behalf of the society
a petition addressed to the chief signal officer of the United States
in relation to storm signals, which action of the president was
unanimously endorsed by the meeting.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Giles P. Stone, one of the oldest members of the society,
and at the time of his decease, its presiding officer, died April 29,
1876, aged yy years, 9 months, and was buried at Oak Hill Ceme-
tery. The funeral services were strictly private and the society as
a body did not attend.
276 RECORDS AND HISTORY OP
OBITUARY.
Capt. William A. Cheney died at home, Aug. 17, 1876, aged 79
years, 1 month, 20 days. The funeral services were private and the
society did not attend as a body.
Aug. 31, 1876, the committee to whom was referred the pe-
tition of W. H. Jewett and E. J. Grant of Ipswich, reported that
it was inexpedient for the society to take any action in the matter,
which report was accepted by the meeting.
Capt. Frank W. Brown was proposed for membership by
Capt. S. P. Bray.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Dennis Condry, who at the time of his death was the
oldest member of the society, died at Somerville, Mass., Nov. 25,
1876, aged 82 years. His remains were brought to Newburyport
and interred in the family tomb at Oldtown Burying Ground. The
society as a body did not attend.
Nov. 30, 1876, annual meeting. Officers elected:
Capt. William Graves, President.
Capt. N. S. Osgood, Vice President.
Capt. George Lunt, Treasurer.
Capt. C. E. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. N- Varina,
Capt. S. P. Bray,
Capt. Joseph C. Hoyt,
Capt. N. S. Osgood,
Capt. Henry Cook.
Relief committee:
Capt. Fred Moore,
Capt. Richard Pettingell,
Capt. E. S. Raynes,
Capt. Eben Bradbury,
Capt. Moses Pike.
Capt. John Simpson was elected superintendent.
Voted, that Capt. Frank W. Brown be recorded as a member.
Dec. 14, 1876, the finance committee reported that the funds
of the society amounted to $47,330.07, which report was accepted.
The relief committee recommended that the sum of $1960 be
paid to the beneficiaries, and the recommendation was adopted.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 277
Feb. 22, 1877, Capt. Osgood, in behalf of a committee ap-
pointed at a previous meeting for the purpose of purchasing a safe
in which to keep the books and papers of the society, reported that
he had knowledge of a suitable one which he thought could be pur-
chased for $50, and it was voted that the committee be empowered
to purchase a safe at a cost not to exceed $40, and that Capt. T. H.
Boardman be added to the committee.
Capt. Oliver O. Jones was proposed for membership by Capt.
Stephen P. Bray.
Aug. 30, 1877, voted that the thanks of the society be tender-
ed to Capt. E. P. Dorr of Buffalo, N. Y., for his donation of
charts and surveys of the Great Lakes and pictures of lake craft
and grain elevator to the collection of the society.
Capt. S. P. Bray proposed Capt. J. J. Taylor for membership.
Capt. N. S. Osgood proposed Capts. John F. Pike, Moses
Pike, Jr., and John R. Howard for membership.
A petition was read from George F. Woodman asking that the
society recommend him as a suitable person to hold a commission
as a branch pilot for the port of Newburyport and it was unani-
mously voted that the petitioner have leave to withdraw.
OBITUARY.
Capt. William Graves, the eleventh president of this society,
died in office, Sept. 1, 1877, aged 66 years, 5 months, and was
buried at Oak Hill Cemetery, 31 members of the society attending
the funeral.
Nov. 29, 1877, annual meeting. Election of officers:
Capt. N. S. Osgood, President.
Capt. George Lunt, Vice President.
Capt. S. P. Bray, Treasurer.
Capt. Charles E. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. N. Varina,
Capt. J. C. Hoyt,
Capt. Henry Cook,
Capt. A. Cheever,
Capt. Fred Moore.
18-b
278 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Relief committee :
Capt. E. S. Raynes,
Capt. Eben Bradbury,
Capt. Moses Pike,
Capt. C. M. Bayley,
Capt. J. B. Brown.
Capt. John Simpson was elected superintendent.
Capts. Oliver O. Jones, Joseph J. Taylor, John F. Pike, Moses
Pike, Jr., and John R. Howard were recorder as members.
On motion of Capt. T. C. Simpson, it was voted that a com-
mittee to be composed of the President, Capt. Henry Cook, and
Capt. S. P. Bray, be chosen to draw up a series of resolutions
which shall be signed by all the officers of the society, recorded
upon the books of the society and a copy forwarded to the family
of our late deceased president, Capt. William Graves.
On motion of Capt. Mackinney, seconded by others, it was
voted that the secretary communicate with the proper authorities
for the purpose of having the Bell Buoy located at Newburyport
bar removed and one substituted in its place which will answer
the purpose for which it is designed.
RESOLUTIONS.,
Hall of the Marine Society, Nov. 29, 1877.
At the annual meeting of this society held this evening, on
motion of Capt. T. C. Simpson, it was voted that Capt. N. S. Os-
good, Capt. S. P. Bray and Capt. Henry Cook be a committee to
offer resolutions of sympathy for the family of our late president,
Capt. William Graves.
Whereas, in the Providence of God, our worthy and esteemed
president has been removed from us by death, therefore be it
Resolved, that in the death of our friend and associate Capt.
William Graves, this society has lost a valued member and an effi-
cient and courteous presiding officer.
Resolved, that while in common with our fellow citizens, we
shall always remember the admirable qualities that distinguished
him as a citizen and man, we have especially to express our high
appreciation of him as member of this society for the past 40 years.
Resolved, that these resolutions be entered upon the records
of the society and a copy of them forwarded to the family of our
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 279
deceased friend as a token of our sympathy with them in their af-
fliction.
N. S. OSGOOD, President.
GEORGE LUNT, Vice President.
S. P. BRAY, Treasurer.
CHARLES E. BAYLEY, Secretary.
Dec. 13, 1877, the finance committee reported that the funds
of the society amounted to $48,006.87.
The report of the relief committee recommending that the
sum of $2060 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
Feb. 28, 1878, Capt. John Hubbard was proposed for member-
ship by Capt. Charles E. Coker.
A photographic picture of the interior of a life saving station
house, which was presented to the society by Capt. R. A. Bayley,
was handed around to the members for their inspection and it was
voted that when Capt. Simpson's health will permit he shall put it
into a suitable frame.
Aug. 29, 1878, Capt. N. S. Osgood presented the resignation
of Capt. Charles E. Bayley as secretary, and on motion of Capt. T.
C. Simpson, seconded by others, the resignation was accepted.
On motion of Capt. T. C. Simpson, seconded by others, the
president appointed Capt. Lawrence W. Brown, Capt. Thomas
Mackinney, and Capt. Albert Cheever, a committee to prepare,*
sort, and count the votes for secretary.
The committee reported whole number of votes cast 19, all of
which were for Capt. William H. Bayley as secretary.
A letter was read by the president from Mrs. Allen Haskell,
relating to the will of Capt. Mark Symonds, informing the society
that the trustee of the estate, John N. Pike, Esq., was without a
bondsman, they being dead. On motion of Capt. T. C. Simpson,
seconded by Capt. Mackinney and others, it was voted that the
treasurer take such steps in the matter as he might think best.
Capt. Varina, as chairman of the finance committee, informed
the society that Mr. N. B. Lake had called upon the committee and
they had agreed to discount his rent $25 per year. On motion it
was voted to sustain the action of the finance committee.
The president informed the society that Capt. Joseph Taylor,
who was admitted to the society at the last annual meeting, had
neglected to pay his admittance fee, which in accordance with the
280 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
by-laws, must be paid in three months under the penalty of expul-
sion. On motion of Capt. Mackinney, seconded by Capt. Simpson,
it was voted that the by-laws be adhered to, and Capt. Joseph Tay-
lor be expelled for non-payment of admittance fee.
The president offered the following resolutions, which were
unanimously adopted.
Resolved, that in accepting the resignation of Capt. Charles
E. Bayley, we are desirous of expressing our approbation of the
able and courteous manner in which he has discharged his duties
as secretary for eleven years. We regret the necessity which com-
pels him to take up his old profession as ship master, and tender
him our best wishes for his health and prosperity.
Resolved, that these resolutions be placed upon the records of
the society and a copy sent to Capt. Charles E. Bayley.
Attest, WILLIAM H. BAYLEY, Secretary.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Amos Noyes, a member of this society, died at San
Francisco, Cal., Oct. 19, 1878, aged 79 years, and was buried at
that place.
Nov. 29, 1878, annual meeting. Election of officers :
Capt. N. S. Osgood, President.
Capt. S. P. Bray, Vice President.
Capt. T. C. Simpson, Treasurer.
Capt. W. H. Bayley, Secretary.
Capt. T. C. Simpson resigned the office of treasurer to which
he had been elected, on account of ill health, which was accepted,
and Capt. Henry Cook was elected as treasurer.
Finance committee :
Capt. N. Varina,
Capt. T. Mackinney,
Capt. A. Cheever,
Capt. F. Moore,
Capt. R. Pettingell.
Relief committee :
Capt. E. S. Raynes,
Capt. Eben Bradbury,
Capt. Moses Pike,
Capt. C. M. Bayley,
Capt. William Reed.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT z8l
Voted, that the office of janitor be abolished.
On motion of Capt. Mackinney, seconded by others, the sec-
retary was instructed to notify the light house board of this dis-
trict regarding the lights at the entrance of our harbor.
Dec. 12, 1878, the report of the finance committee that the
funds of the society amounted to $48,781.12 was accepted.
The report of the relief committee recommending that the
sum of $2360 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
May 29, 1879. After remarks had been made by several mem-
bers present regarding the size of the society's flag, it being con-
sidered too large to hoist in all weathers, it was voted to purchase
a new flag about 13 feet long, and Capt. Thomas Mackinney was
chosen to purchase it.
OBITUARY.
Capt. John Hubbard, a member of this society since Nov. 28,
1878, was drowned at Brunswick, Ga., May 29, 1879, aged 51
years. His remains were brought to Newburyport and interred at
the Oldtown Burying Ground, March 17, 1880, the society as a
body attending.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Charles Tyng, a member of this society, died at Provi-
dence, R. I., June 20, 1879, and was buried there, aged 78 years.
Nov. 27, 1879, annual meeting. Election of officers :
Capt. Stephen P. Bray, President.
Capt. Thomas C. Simpson, Vice President.
Capt. Henry Cook, Treasurer.
Capt. W. H. Bayley, Secretary.
Previous to the election of officers, the vice president, Capt.
Stephen P. Bray, acting president, read a letter from Capt. N. S.
Osgood, declining to serve as president the ensuing year.
Capt. Robert Bayley, Jr., was unanimously elected a member
of this society.
Finance committee :
Capt. Thomas Mackinney,
Capt. Albert Cheever,
Capt. Richard Pettingell,
Capt. Robert Couch,
Capt. Edmund S. Raynes.
282 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Relief committee :
Capt. Eben Bradbury,
Capt. Moses Pike,
Capt. William Reed,
Capt. Moses Pike, Jr.,
Capt. Thomas H. Boardman.
On motion, a committee consisting of Capts. T. C. Simpson,
Thomas Mackinney and Albert Cheever were appointed a com-
mittee to draw up a letter of thanks to Capt. N. S. Osgood for his
valuable services to the society in the many situations he has filled.
On motion of Capt. Mackinney, seconded by others, Capt.
George L. Woods was appointed janitor of the building to look
after the museum and meeting room for one year.
To the Members of the Marine Society of Newburyport:
Gentlemen: —
I find on looking over our records that I am probably the
oldest member that ever served you as president, and am cautioned thereby
that age, together with its attendant infirmities, prompts me to decline a
renomination, and at the same time to thank you for the honor you have
done me in appointing me to fill the various offices in your society. With
my cordial wishes for its prosperity and influence for all time, I am with
respect,
Your obedient servant,
NATHANIEL S. OSGOOD.
Dec. 12, 1879, tne report of the finance committee that the
funds of the society amounted to $49,443.18 was accepted.
The report of the relief committee recommending that the
sum of $2420 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
Report of the special committee to consider the resignation
of Capt. N. S. Osgood from the presidency of the society.
Mr. President and Gentlemen: —
Your committee take this occasion of expressing their regret at the
resignation of Capt. Osgood. He has served us long and efficiently for fifty
years and his name has stood upon the records of our society as an asso-
ciate member for that whole period of time. He has been identified in all
our affairs, guided us by his advice, assisted us by his services and we have
always found him willing and earnest to promote by all honorable means
the welfare of this society. He has filled our offices of trust with efficiency
and zeal, contributed much towards establishing the success of our organi-
zation and in strengthening its moral force and influence in the commu-
nity. Our appreciation of his merits has in times past always found a
prompt though often inadequate expression of our willingness to elect him
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 283
successively to all the positions of responsibility and trust within our
power.
Your committee, while regretting the necessity which compels him to
decline a re-election to the office which he has occupied for the two pre-
ceding years, would respectfully submit the following resolutions:
Resolved, that in the retirement of Capt. N. S. Osgood from active
participation in our official affairs we lose the experience of one long
identified with us, and one whose active and efficient services have always
been directed towards our highest good.
Resolved, that we hereby recognize our obligation for the same, tender
to him our thanks for his past services, express our confidence in his fidel-
ity to our interests as a brother member.
Resolved, that these resolutions be placed upon our records, and our
secretary be instructed to forward a copy thereof to Capt. Osgood at his
earliest convenience.
Respectfully submitted,
T. C. SIMPSON, Chairman.
Voted, on motion of Capt. Brown, seconded by others, that
the death of Capt. John Hubbard, at Brunswick, Ga., be recorded
on records as occurring between the 25th and 29th of May, 1879.
A letter was read from George Lunt, Esq., by the president,
relating to the improvements in the harbor of Scituate, which on
motion was laid upon the table. Capt. Robert Bayley, Jr., was
admitted a member of this society.
Feb. 26, 1880, on motion of Capt. Couch, the communication
received from Hon. George Lunt relating to the improvement
at Scituate harbor was taken from the table for action.
A letter from Hon. John James Currier, mayor of the city,
was read by the president upon the subject presented by Hon.
George Lunt, and on motion of Capt. Jacob B. Brown, the officers
of this society were instructed to sign the memorial to Congress in
behalf of the society and attach the seal thereto.
Capt. Jacob B. Brown proposed the name of Capt. Charles W.
Brown for membership.
On motion of Capt. Thomas Mackinney, the secretary was in-
structed to request the light house board to place an automatic
buoy on Newburyport bar.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Charles E. Bayley, a member of this society, died of yel-
low fever at Jacmel, Island of Hayti, July 15, 1879, and was there
interred, aged 43 years.
284 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
OBITUARY.
Capt. George Lunt, Jr., a member of this society, died at
home, Sept. 4, 1879, aged 74 years, 6 months, and was buried in the
family lot at Oak Hill Cemetery, Sept. 6, 1879. The society attend-
ed the funeral.
Capt. Anthony Knapp, Jr., a member of this society, died at
home, Sept. 6, 1879, aged 80 years, 11 months, 9 days, and was
buried in the family lot at Oak Hill Cemetery., Sept. 8, 1879.
May 27, 1880, Capt. Couch presented the name of Capt. Frank
A. Janvrin for membership.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Joseph Hoyt, a member of this society since Nov. 29,
i860, died at home, June 5, 1880, aged 68 years, 9 months, 2 days.
The society attended the funeral.
Capt. James Cook, a member of this society since Nov. 28,
1850, died at Trenton, N. J., Aug. 9, 1880, and was buried there.
Age 71 years, 4 months.
Aug. 26, 1880, the president informed the society that a pic-
ture of Ship Geneva passing Elsinore Light, had been presented
to the society by Joseph Rooney, Esq., of New York.
Voted, to accept the picture and a letter of thanks be sent to
Mr. Rooney.
The president in behalf of Capt. Osgood, presented the society
the certificate of membership of Capt. Philip Aubin, who joined the
society in 1781.
Voted to accept the certificate and a letter of thanks be sent
to Capt. Osgood.
Nov. 25, 1880, annual meeting. Officers elected:
Capt. Stephen P. Bray, President.
Capt. Thomas C. Simpson, Vice President.
Capt. Henry Cook, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Thomas Mackinney,
Capt. Richard Pettingell,
Capt. Robert Couch,
Capt. Edmund S. Raynes,
Capt. Thomas H. Boardman.
CAPT. CHARLES W. BROWN.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 28^
Relief committee :
Capt. Ebenezer Bradbury,
Capt. Moses Pike,
Capt. Moses Pike, Jr.,
Capt. J. Frank Tilton,
Capt. George L. Bray.
Capt. Charles W. Brown and Capt. Frank A. Janvrin were ad-
mitted as members.
Capt. George L. Woods was elected superintendent.
Dec. 9, 1880, the finance committee reported that the funds of
the society amounted to $49,865.38.
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$2495 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
The president informed the society that a donation of shells
and minerals had been made from the estate of the late Hon. Caleb
Cushing, and on motion of Capt. Couch, the donation was accept-
ed and the secretary was instructed to return to the family of the
donor the thanks of the society.
Feb. 24, 1 88 1, voted, that the thanks of the society be tendered
to Capt. Henry Cook for the records of American and foreign
shipping for the years 1879-1880, presented by him.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Jacob B. Brown, a member of this society since Nov.
28, 1861, died at home, Feb. 13, 1881, aged 46 years, 6 months, and
was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery in this city. The members of the
society attended the funeral in a body.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Thomas C. Simpson, a member of this society since Nov.
30, 1843, died at home, Feb. 18, 1881, at the age of 61 years, 6
months. He was buried in the family lot at Oak Hill Cemetery, but
the funeral being strictly private none of the members of the so-
ciety attended.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Henry Shoof, a member of this society since Nov. 28,
1839 died at his home in this city April 4, 1881, aged 78 years, 9
months, 13 days, and was buried in the family lot at Oak Hill
Cemetery, Newburyport, the members of the society attending in
a body.
286 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
OBITUARY.
Capt. Nathaniel S. Osgood, a member of this society since
Nov. 26, 1829, who had filled various offices, and who at the time
of his death was the oldest member of the organization, died at
his home in this city, May 2, 1881, aged 80 years, 9 days, and was
buried in the family lot at Oak Hill Cemetery, the members of the
society attending in a body.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Ambrose H. White, a member of this society, died at
Boston, June 3, 1881, aged 80 years, and was buried in Boston.
OBITUARY.
Capt. George L. Woods, a member of this society since Nov.
27, 1862, died at his home in this city, June 7, 1881, aged 47 years,
10 months, and was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery, the members of
the society attending the funeral in a body.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Nicholas Varina, a member of this society since Nov.
29, 1855, died at his home in this city, October 25, 1881, aged 66
years, 10 months, and was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery, the mem-
bers of the society attending his funeral in a body.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Henry W. Lunt, a member of this society since Nov. 2J^
1873, died at his home in Newburyport, on the 30th day of Oc-
tober, 1881, aged 46 years, 11 months, 27 days, and was buried at
Oak Hill Cemetery, the members of the society attending the
funeral in a body.
Nov. 24, 1 88 1, annual meeting. Election of officers:
Capt. Stephen P. Bray, President.
Capt. Henry Cook, Vice President.
Capt. William H. Lunt, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Thomas Mackinney,
Capt. Robert Couch,
Capt. Edmund S. Raynes,
Capt. Isaac H. Boardman,
Capt. George Pierce.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 287
Relief committee :
Capt. Ebenezer Bradbury,
Capt. Moses Pike,
Capt. E. E. Hale,
Capt. Moses J. Mulliken,
Capt. Frank W. Brown.
Capt. Moses Mulliken was elected superintendent.
A bill of $3.27 was presented for draping the outside of the
Marine building on the funeral day of our late president of the
United States, Hon. James A. Garfield.
OBITUARY.
Capt. William H. Swap, a member of this society since Nov.
26, 1863, died at Manila, on the 25th day of October, 1882, aged
50 years.
Dec. 8, 1881, the finance committee reported the funds of the
society. Amount, $50,289.11.
The report of the relief committee recommending that the
sum of $2700 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
Capt. George Warren Knight, a member of this society since
November 28, 1872, died at his home in Camden, N. J., aged 40
years, 10 months, 24 days, on October 24, 1882. His remains
were brought to Newburyport and interred at Oak Hill Cemetery,
October 27, 1882, the members of the society attending the fu-
neral.
Nov. 30, 1882, annual meeting. Election of officers:
Capt. Stephen P. Bray, President.
Capt. Henry Cook, Vice President.
Capt. William H. Lunt, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Thomas Mackinney,
Capt. Robert Couch,
Capt. Edmund S. Raynes,
Capt. Thomas H. Boardman,
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown.
288 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Relief committee:
Capt. Ebenezer Bradbury,
Capt. Moses Pike,
Capt. Moses J. Mulliken,
Capt. Frank W. Brown,
Capt. Charles E. Coker.
Capt. Moses J. Mulliken was elected superintendent.
A letter from Capt. David R. Le Craw relating to the collect-
ing information relative to shipping interests in the various ports
of the world, was read by the secretary, received and ordered to be
placed on file.
Dec. 14, 1882, the report of the finance committee that the
funds of the society amounted to $50,238.61 was accepted.
The report of the relief committee recommending the sum of
$2713 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Moses Pike, Jr., a member of this society since Nov. 29,
1877, died at home, Dec. 18, 1882, and was buried at Oak Hill
Cemetery, aged 35 years. The members of the society did not at-
tend the funeral.
Nov. 29, 1883, annual meeting. Election of officers :
Capt. Henry Cook, President.
Capt. Robert Couch, Vice President.
Capt. William H. Lunt, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Thomas Mackinney,
Capt. George Pierce,
Capt. Edmund S. Raynes,
Capt. Thomas H. Boardman,
Capt. Albert Cheever.
Relief committee:
Capt. Ebenezer Bradbury,
Capt. Moses Pike,
Capt. Moses J. Mulliken,
Capt. F. W. Brown,
Capt. Richard Pettingell.
Capt. Moses J. Mulliken was elected superintendent.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 289
OBITUARY.
Capt. Stephen P. Bray, president of the Marine Society since
1879, and a member since Nov. 30, 1843, died at his home, June 10,
1883, aged 71 years, 16 days. The members of the society attended
his funeral.
On motion, it was voted that the officers of the society be a
committee to prepare and present at the next meeting suitable
resolutions upon the death of our late president, Capt. Stephen P.
Bray.
Dec. 14, 1883, the finance committee reported that the funds
of the society amounted to $50,782.25.
The report of the relief committee recommending that the
sum of $2484 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
Hall of the Marine Society, Dec. 14, 1883.
At the annual meeting of the Marine Society, held on Thurs-
day evening, November 29, on motion of Capt. Thomas Mackin-
ney, the officers of the society consisting of Capt. Henry Cook,
president, Capt. Robert Couch, vice president, Capt. William H.
Lunt, treasurer, and Capt. William H. Bayley, secretary, were
chosen a committee to draft resolutions of sympathy to the family
ot our late president, Capt. Stephen P. Bray. The committee hav-
ing attended to their duty reported as follows :
That whereas in the Providence of God our worthy and es-
teemed president has been removed from us by death,
Therefore, resolved, that in the death of our friend and asso-
ciate, Capt. Stephen P. Bray, this society has lost a valuable mem-
ber and an efficient, courteous presiding officer.
Resolved, that while in common with our fellow citizens we
shall remember his admirable qualities as a citizen and man, we
have especially to express our high appreciation of him as a mem-
ber of this society for the past forty years.
Resolved, that these resolutions be placed upon the records
of the society and a copy of them forwarded to the family of our
deceased friend as a token of our sympathy with them in their af-
fliction.
HENRY COOK,
ROBERT COUCH,
WILLIAM H. LUNT,
WILLIAM H. BAYLEY,
Aug. 28, 1884. Committee.
19-a.
29O RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
OBITUARY.
Capt. Daniel Knight, a member of this society since Nov, 30,
1843, died at Danvers, Mass., Feb. 2, 1883, aged 76 years, 4
months. His body was brought to this city and buried from the
Brown Square house. The society did not attend.
Capt. Robert Bayley, a member of this society since Nov. 29,
1849, died at home, Nov. 11, 1883, aged 75 years, 4 months, and
was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery. The society did not attend the
funeral.
Capt. R. A. Bayley, a member of the Marine Society since Nov.
2j, 1862, died at his home in Washington, D. C, Nov. 26, 1883.
His body was brought to Newburyport and buried at Oak Hill
Cemetery, the members of the society attending the funeral.
Capt. Edmund S. Raynes, a member of the Marine Society
since Nov. 29, i860, died at home, Dec. 24, 1883, aged 72 years.
Nov. 27, 1884, annual meeting. Election of officers:
Capt. Robert Couch, President.
Capt. Albert Cheever, Vice President.
Capt. William H. Lunt, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Thomas Mackinney,
Capt. Thomas H. Boardman,
Capt. Albert Cheever,
Capt. J. Frank Tilton,
Capt. David R. Le Craw.
Relief committee :
Capt. Richard Pettingell,
Capt. F. W. Brown,
Capt. Moses J. Mulliken,
Capt. Robert Bayley, Jr.,
Capt. William Reed.
Capt. Moses Mulliken was elected superintendent.
The secretary read a letter from Capt. Henry Cook declining
on account of ill health the use of his name as president for the
ensuing year.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 29 1
Dec. 11, 1884, the finance committee reported that the funds
of the society amounted to $51,040.42.
The report of the relief committee recommending that the
sum of $2345 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
On motion of Capt. Thomas Mackinney, it was voted that a
new carpet be furnished for the room, and the finance committee
were instructed to purchase the same.
On motion it was voted to have new books printed, and Capt.
Albert Cheever and the secretary were appointed a committee to
carry out the vote.
Feb. 26, 1885, Capt. Stephen P. Bray proposed Capt. John T.
Howard for membership.
May 28, 1885, Mr. Ebenezer Rolfe presented to the society a
framed picture of a "Naval Engagement" at Sea, Sept. 30, 1762,
between a Brig in command of Capt. Moses Rolfe and a Spanish
Privateer.
Dec. 10, 1885, the report of the relief committee recommend-
ing the sum of $2233 be appropriated for relief, was accepted.
Voted, that the finance committee provide an electric clock.
Voted that the finance committee purchase 16 stuffed hair
cloth chairs for the room.
Feb. 26, 1886, an application signed by numerous merchants
of the city was received from William J. Pettingell requesting the
recommendation of the society to the Governor and Council of the
state for an appointment as pilot for the port of Newburyport.
Voted, that the prayer of the petitioner be granted.
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown presented to the society a framed
picture of the ship Mary L. Cushing.
May 27, 1886, Capt. Albert Cheever, in behalf of John W.
Sargent, presented to the society a framed picture of the flags of
all nations executed by hand.
Nov. 25, 1886, officers elected :
Capt. Robert Couch, President.
Capt. Albert Cheever, Vice President.
Capt. William H. Lunt, Treasurer.
Capt William H. Bayley, Secretary.
292 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Finance committee:
Capt. Thomas Mackinney,
Capt. Thomas H. Boardman,
Capt. Albert Cheever,
Capt. J. Frank Tilton,
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown.
Relief committee :
Capt. Richard Pettingell,
Capt. Frank W. Brown,
Capt. Moses J. Mulliken,
Capt. Robert Bayley,
Capt. William Reed.
Superintendent, Capt. Moses J. Mulliken.
Dec. 9, 1886, the report of the relief committee recommending
the sum of $1969 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
Feb. 24, 1887, a donation to the Museum of the society of
two charts of the city of London as it appeared two hundred years
ago, was contributed by Lawrence B. Cushing; also a piece of
copal and beach nut was donated by Capt. William H. Lunt.
May 26, 1887, donations to the Museum were received from
Miss Emily A. and Miss Ellen P. Getchell, great-grand-daughters
of Capt. Samuel Rolfe, consisting of two charts of St. George's
Channel, 1 Port Warden's certificate of the year 1803, and one pro-
tection paper of 1796. Capt. J. Frank Tilton presented one por-
cupine fish.
Nov. 24, 1887, election of officers. k
Capt. Robert Couch, President.
Capt. Albert Cheever, Vice President.
Capt. Thomas H. Boardman, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Albert Cheever,
Capt. J. Frank Tilton,
Capt. Fred A. Kezar,
Capt. James W. Elliot,
Capt. John N. Pritchard.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 293
Relief committee :
Capt. Richard Pettingell,
Capt. Frank W. Brown,
Capt. Moses J. Mulliken,
Capt. William Reed,
Capt. Oliver O. Jones.
Superintendent of rooms, Capt. Moses J. Mulliken.
Voted, that the secretary be instructed to provide carriages
for the members when attending the funeral of a deceased mem-
ber, the expense to be paid from the society's fund.
Dec. 8, 1887, the report of the relief committee recommending
the sum of $2056 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
A petition was presented, signed by numerous business men
to the Light House Board asking that a light be placed on Kettle
Rock, so called, and also requesting that the Merrimac river from
Newburyport to Haverhill be buoyed out.
A petition to the committee on Rivers and Harbors, to re-
move the obstructions in the Merrimac river between Newbury-
port and Haverhill was presented.
Aug. 30, 1888, a petition was received from George F. Wood-
man, John H. Kenney, and Henry T. Thurlow, requesting the
approbation of this society in order that they might be appointed
as commissioned pilots for the harbor of Newburyport.
Nov. 29, 1888, election of officers:
Capt. Robert Couch, President.
Capt. Albert Cheever, Vice President.
Capt. Thomas H. Boardman, Treasurer.
Capt. William H, Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Albert Cheever,
Capt. J. Frank Tilton,
Capt. Fred A. Kezar,
Capt. J. W. Elliot,
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown.
Relief committee :
Capt. Richard Pettingell,
Capt. Oliver O. Jones,
Capt. Frank W. Brown,
Capt. Moses J. Mulliken,
Capt. William Reed.
Superintendent, Capt. Moses J. Mulliken.
19-b.
294 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown proposed the name of Capt. Henry
O. Marshall for membership.
The secretary reported the receipt of eight volumes of the
Life Saving Service from the government at Washington.
Dec. 13, 1888, the report of the relief committee, that $2244
be paid to the beneficiaries the ensuing year, was accepted.
A small full rigged schooner was presented to the society from
the late Capt. William Collins, which was accepted with thanks.
Voted, that the finance committee be instructed to have new
windows put into the front of the building in conformity with those
on each side, regrain the front door, and make such other repairs
as may be needed.
Oct. 14, 1889, a special meeting was held to consider a re-
quest from the Board of Trade, that the Marine Society appoint a
committee to confer with a committee from the Board of Trade,
and a committee from the City Council in relation to the Maritime
Congress to be held in Boston, from Nov. 4, 1889, to Jan. 4, 1890.
Mr. Fred E. Smith, secretary of the Board of Trade, having
been invited to be present, stated the object of the Congress and
what the Board of Trade was desirous of doing.
Capt. Fred A. Kezar, Capt. William H. Bayley and Capt.
Lawrence W. Brown were chosen a committee in behalf of the
Marine Society.
Oct. 22, 1889, Capt. Fred A. Kezar made a report of the sev-
eral meetings of the committees, and Capt. Lawrence W. Brown
was authorized to select such articles from the Museum of the so-
ciety and allow them to be exhibited in the Maritime Congress in
October, all expenses to be paid by the society.
Nov. 28, 1899, election of officers:
Capt. Couch, President.
Capt. Albert Cheever, Vice President.
Capt. Thomas H. Boardman, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Albert Cheever,
Capt. J. Frank Tilton,
Capt. Fred A. Kezar,
Capt. J. W. Elliot,
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 295
Relief committee :
Capt. Richard Pettingell,
Capt. Oliver O. Jones,
Capt. Frank A. Janvrin,
Capt. Moses J. Mulliken,
Capt. William Reed.
Superintendent of rooms, Capt. Moses J. Mulliken.
Capt. Henry Marshall was elected as a member.
Capt. Benjamin C. Emerton presented to the society's Mu-
seum one copy of the Newburyport Herald of the year 1806.
Mr. Henry Currier donated one powder horn about one hun-
dred years old.
Mrs. Charles E. Bayley donated one stuffed bird in a glass
case.
Dec. 12, 1889, the report of the relief committee recommend-
ing the sum of $2256 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
A picture of a boat was donated to the Museum by Mr. Eben
P. Goodwin.
May 29, 1890, upon request of Capt. William Reed and Capt.
James W. Elliot, the secretary was instructed to write the Light
House Board in relation to the buoys at the entrance of the harbor
and request them to place the lights and buoys in such a position
as would best conduce to the safety of vessels entering the har-
bor.
Nov. 27, 1890, election of officers:
Capt. Robert Couch, President.
Capt. Albert Cheever, Vice President.
Capt. Thomas H. Boardman, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Albert Cheever,
Capt. J. F. Tilton,
Capt. Charles E. Coker,
Capt.
J. W. Elliot,
Capt.
L. W. Brown.
Relief committee :
Capt.
Richard Pettingell,
Capt.
Oliver O. Jones,
Capt.
Frank A. Janvrin,
Capt.
Moses J. Mulliken,
Capt.
William Reed.
Superintendent of
rooms, Capt. Moses J. Mulliken,
296 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Dec. 11, 1890, the report of the relief committee recommend-
ing the sum of $2704 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
May 28, 1891, Capt. J. Frank Tilton presented the society
with a log book of 1804, also a log book of the U. S. Ship War-
ren, kept in 1880.
Capt. Stephen P. Bray presented to the society an Epitome,
dated 1794, also a book containing a code of signals.
Finance committee :
Capt. J. F. Tilton,
Capt. C. E. Coker,
Capt. J. W. Elliot,
Capt. L. W. Brown,
Capt. S. P. Bray.
Relief committee :
Capt. Richard Pettingell,
Capt. Oliver O. Jones,
Capt. Frank A. Janvrin,
Capt. William Reed,
Capt. Charles W. Reed.
Superintendent of rooms, Moses J. Mulliken.
Dec. 10, 1891, the report of the relief committee recommend-
ing the sum of $2504 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
Nov. 24, 1892, officers elected:
Capt. Albert Cheever, President.
Capt. Charles E. Coker, Vice President.
Capt. Thomas H. Boardman, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. J. F. Tilton,
Capt. Charles E. Coker,
Capt. J. W. Elliot,
Capt. L. W. Brown,
Capt. S. P. Bray.
Relief committee :
Capt. Richard Pettingell,
Capt. Oliver O. Jones,
Capt. Frank A. Janvrin,
Capt. William Reed,
Capt. Charles W. Reed.
Superintendent of rooms, Moses J. Mulliken.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 297
Mrs. Williams presented an oil painting of her father, Capt.
John C. Hoyt.
Capt. Charles E. Coker presented an "American Coast Pilot"
by Edmund M. Blunt, printed in 1800.
Mr. John L. Tobin, Esq., presented an oil painting of the
steamship "President," lost at sea in 1841.
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown presented three copies of a Cal-
cutta paper called "The Phenix," printed in 1857.
One copy of the New Orleans price current of i860.
One copy of the Commercial Gazette of Port Luis, Mauritius,
of 1858 ; also a paper called the "Friend of India," printed in Sin-
gapore, in July, 1857.
Alfred Lord, Esq., presented a cannon ball dug from the
ground in the rear of Lord Brothers' store in 1874, probably a
Revolutionary relic.
Dec. 8, 1892, the report of the relief committee recommending
the sum of $2504 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
Nov. 30, 1893, election of officers :
Capt. Albert Cheever, President.
Capt. Charles E. Coker, Vice President.
Capt. Thomas H. Boardman, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. J. F. Tilton,
Capt. L. W. Brown,
Capt. J. W. Elliot,
Capt. S. P. Bray,
Capt. J. N. Pritchard.
Relief committee :
Capt. Richard Pettingell,
Capt. Oliver O. Jones,
Capt. Frank A. Janvrin,
Capt. William Reed,
Capt. Charles W. Reed.
Superintendent of rooms, Capt. Moses J. Mulliken.
Dec. 14, 1893, the report of the relief committee recommend-
ing the sum of $2255 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
Voted, that the vote passed at the last meeting, making five
members on the finance and relief committees, be reconsidered.
298 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Voted, that the finance and relief committees now consist of
three instead of five members each.
Voted, that Capt. Charles E. Coker, Capt. Lawrence W.
Brown, and Capt. Stephen P. Bray constitute the finance commit-
tee.
Voted, that Capt. Richard Pettingell, Capt. Oliver O. Jones,
and Capt. Frank A. Janvrin constitute the relief committee.
Nov. 29, 1894, election of officers :
Capt. Albert Cheever, President.
Capt. Charles E. Coker, Vice President.
Capt. Thomas H. Boardman, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee:
Capt. Charles E. Coker,
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown,
Capt. Stephen P. Bray.
Relief committee :
Capt. Richard Pettingell,
Capt. Oliver O. Jones,
Capt. Frank A. Janvrin.
Superintendent of rooms, Capt. Moses J. Mulliken.
A memorial printed service upon the death of our late associ-
ate, Capt. Joshua Hale, was received from Mrs. Hale and a vote
of thanks sent her for the gift.
Dec. 13, 1894, the report of the relief committee recommend-
ing the sum of $2395 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
Nov. 28, 1895, election of officers :
Capt. Charles E. Coker, President.
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown, Vice President.
Capt. Thomas H. Boardman, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown,
Capt. Stephen P. Bray,
Capt. John N. Pritchard.
Relief committee :
Capt. Oliver O. Jones,
Capt. George L. Bray,
Capt. Benjamin C. Emerton.
Superintendent of rooms, Capt. Moses J. Mulliken.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 299
Remarks were made by the president and several of the
members present regarding the custody of the trunk containing
the stocks, bonds and important papers belonging to the society,
and it was voted that when the box containing the securities and
property of the society be again returned to the bank for deposit,
it be done in the joint name of the finance committee and treas-
urer. The treasurer with one member of the committee being re-
quired to take the box from the bank, or in the absence from
town or sickness of treasurer, two members of the committee be so
required.
The president read a letter from John C. Noyes of New York,
presenting a photograph of the Brig John C. Noyes to the society,
which was received with thanks.
Capt. William Reed presented a model of an old style pink
stern schooner, which was accepted with thanks.
Dec. 12, 1895, the report of the relief committee recommend-
ing the sum of $1605 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
Capt. Thomas H. Boardman resigned his office of treasurer,
and Capt. Stephen P. Bray was unanimously elected to fill the of-
fice of treasurer.
Feb. 13, 1896, a special meeting of the society was held to
take action upon a petition to the United States Government that
a life saving station may be at once established, properly manned
and equipped, at Salisbury Beach.
Voted, to send the following letter to Hon. W. H. Moody, rep-
resentative to Congress from this district.
Newburyport, February 13, 1896.
To the General Superintendent of the Life Saving Service, Washington,
D. C:
Dear Sir: —
In view of the great loss of life by shipwreck on Salisbury
Beach during the storm of the 9th inst., owing to the great distance to
the nearest relief station on Plum Island, some thirteen miles by land
over which the apparatus had to be conveyed, thereby losing much val-
uable time, we the undersigned members of the Marine Society of New-
buryport would earnestly request that a life saving station be established
and maintained at Salisbury Beach as soon as practicable.
Yours respectfully,
LAWRENCE W. BROWN, Vice President.
WILLIAM H. BAYLEY, Secretary.
3°°
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
May 28, 1896, Capt. George L. Bray made a few remarks in
relation to the loss of sight affecting Capt. William H. Lunt, and
that there was good reason that a cure could be effected, and it
was voted that the relief committee be empowered to expend $50
and more if necessary to effect a cure.
Aug. 27, 1896, the relief committee reported that Capt. Wil-
liam H. Lunt had been a patient at the hospital, the sight of one
eye having been restored, and the expense had been %J2.
Voted, that the expense incurred by the relief committee be
approved.
Nov. 26, 1896, election of officers:
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown, President.
Capt. George L. Bray,, Vice President.
Capt. Stephen P. Bray, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. George L. Bray,
Capt. Richard Newell,
Capt. J. F. Tilton.
Relief committee :
Capt. Oliver O. Jones,
Capt. Benjamin C. Emerton,
Capt. Isaac N. Colby.
Superintendent of rooms, Capt. Moses J. Mulliken.
Dec. 10, 1896, the report of the relief committee recommend-
ing the sum of $1995 be paid to the beneficiaries the ensuing year
was accepted.
Voted, to amend article 2 so as to read "The annual meeting
to be opened at 4 o'clock p. m. ; all other meetings at 7.30 o'clock
p. m." To amend article 3 by changing the word ten to five.
Some remarks were made regarding the original signatures of
the charter members of the society now on the roll book, and Capt.
Oliver O. Jones was appointed as a committee to ascertain the
cost of photographing the names.
Feb. 27, 1897, Capt. Jones reported that it would cost $5 to
have the names of the charter members photographed, and he was
requested to ascertain the cost of the plate, to become the prop-
erty of the society.
THB MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 3OI
Capt. Jones, in behalf of Mr. and Mrs. John Winder, presented
a framed picture of the interior of the Old South church as the
pulpit appeared on April 19, 1896, on the occasion of the Rev. H.
C. Hovey's sermon upon the death of Capt. Jonathan Parsons, one
of the founders of the Marine Society in 1772.
Nov. 25, 1897, election of officers :
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown, President.
Capt. George L. Bray, Vice President.
Capt. Oliver O. Jones, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. George L. Bray,
Capt. Richard Newell,
Capt. J. F. Tilton.
Relief committee :
Capt. Benjamin C. Emerton,
Capt. Isaac N. Colby,
Capt. J. F. Tilton.
Superintendent of rooms, Capt. Moses J. Mulliken.
Dec. 9, 1897, the report of the relief committee recommending
the sum of $1850 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
Nov. 24, 1898, election of officers :
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown, President.
Capt. George L. Bray, Vice President.
Capt. Oliver O. Jones, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. George L. Bray,
Capt. Richard Newell,
Capt. J. F. Tilton.
Relief committee :
Capt. Benjamin C. Emerton,
Capt. Isaac N. Colby,
Capt. Charles W. Reed.
Superintendent of rooms, Capt. Moses J. Mulliken.
Dec. 8, 1898, the report of the relief committee recommending
the sum of $1735 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
302 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Nov. 30, 1899, officers elected:
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown, President.
Capt. George L. Bray, Vice President.
Capt. Oliver O. Jones, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. George L. Bray,
Capt. Richard Newell,
Capt. J. F. Tilton.
Relief committee :
Capt. Benjamin C. Emerton,
Capt. Isaac N. Colby,
Capt. Charles W. Reed.
Mr. Lawrence Cushing presented an old compass to the Mu-
seum, which was accepted with thanks.
Dec. 14, 1899, the report of the relief committee recommend-
ing the sum of $1387 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
Nov. 29, 1900, officers elected:
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown, President.
Capt. John N. Pritchard, Vice President.
Capt. Oliver O. Jones, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown,
Capt. Richard Newell,
Capt. George P. Spalding.
Relief committee :
Capt. Benjamin C. Emerton,
Capt. Isaac N. Colby,
Capt. William H. Bayley.
Superintendent of rooms, Capt. Moses J. Mulliken.
Dec. 12, 1900, the report of the relief committee recommend-
ing the sum of $1300 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
Capt. Richard Newell stated that the society had been accus-
tomed for many years to hold their annual meeting on the last
Thursday evening in November of each year, and as the last Thurs-
day in November had been selected as a national Thanksgiving
day, he would move that the annual meeting of the society be held
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 303
on the third Thursday in November, the meeting to be called to
order at 3 o'clock p. m.
Upon the motion being put it was passed unanimously.
Feb. 28, 1901, a letter was read by the president from the city
government requesting the Marine Society to appoint two mem-
bers as a committee to meet with other committees to make ar-
rangements for the observance of the fiftieth anniversary of the
city.
On motion it was voted that the president and secretary repre-
sent the society.
On motion it was voted that the sum of $200 be appropriated
for the celebration.
Nov. 21, 1901, officers elected:
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown, President.
Capt. John N. Pritchard, Vice President.
Capt. Oliver O. Jones, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown,
Capt. Richard Newell,
Capt. George P. Spalding.
Relief committee :
Capt. Benjamin C. Emerton,
Capt. Isaac N. Colby,
Capt. William H. Bayley.
Superintendent of rooms, Capt. Moses J. Mulliken.
Dec. 5, 1901, the report of the relief committee recommending
the sum of $1505 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
Nov. 20, 1902, election of officers :
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown, President.
Capt. John N. Pritchard, Vice President.
Capt. Oliver O. Jones, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown,
Capt. Richard Newell,
Capt. George P. Spalding.
304 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Relief committee :
Capt. Benjamin C. Emerton,
Capt. Isaac N. Colby,
Capt. William H. Bayley.
Superintendent of rooms, Capt. Moses J. Mulliken.
Dec. 4, 1902, the report of the relief committee recommending
the sum of $1650 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
Feb. 26, 1903, Capt. William H. Bayley and Capt. Oliver O.
Jones were appointed as a committee to revise the by-laws.
Aug. 27, 1903, the committee on new by-laws and the several
amendments, having submitted the new book, requested to be dis-
charged, which on motion being made was granted.
A log book of the Brig Alert was presented by Miss Stickney,
which was accepted with thanks.
Nov. 19, 1903, officers elected:
Capt. John N. Pritchard, President.
Capt. Isaac N. Colby, Vice President.
Capt. Oliver O. Jones, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Richard Newell.
Capt. George P. Spalding,
Capt. William H. Bayley.
Relief committee :
Capt. Benjamin C. Emerton,
Capt. Isaac N. Colby,
Capt. Charles W. Reed.
Superintendent of rooms, Capt. Moses J. Mulliken.
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown was unanimously elected as presi-
dent but declined serving on account of his health.
Dec. 3, 1903, the report of the relief committee recommend-
ing the sum of $1630 be paid to the beneficiaries was accepted.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 305
BY-LAWS
OF
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT
WITH AMENDMENTS AND ADDITIONS
AS REVISED BY A COMMITTEE
TO NOVEMBER, 1903.
Article I. It is enacted and ordered, that on the third Thurs-
day in November in each and every year the Society shall meet for
the purposes of choosing by written ballot, a President, Vice Presi-
dent, Treasurer and Secretary, who shall, if present, be immedi-
ately inducted into office, but if not present the duties shall con-
tinue to be executed by the officers of the last year ; and in case of
their absence by others to be elected pro tern. After such installa-
tion of the officers, the Society shall proceed to the regular annual
business of admission of members, choosing the committee of
Finance and Relief by written ballot and attending to any other
business which may regularly come before them, adjourning for
two weeks to hear and act on the reports of the commitees and to
complete all unfinished and important business.
Article 2. That at all meetings of the society, the president,
if present, shall preside ; in his absence the vice president shall pre-
side ; if both are absent the treasurer shall preside ; and in case of
his absence the presiding officer shall be elected pro tern, as in
Article 1, and all meetings of the society shall be held at Newbury -
port aforesaid, on the third Thursday in the months of November,
February, May and August in every year, and as much oftener as
necessary, all meetings to be opened by the presiding officer at 3
p. m., at which time the roll shall be called by the secretary.
Article 3. The president is authorized to call a special meet-
ing on the petition of five members, giving five days notice in some
daily paper published in Newburyport, and the same fines and pen-
alties shall be collected on all absentees from said meeting as at
other meetings.
Article 4. That every member who is an inhabitant of New-
buryport, or who lives within one mile of any part thereof, shall
attend every meeting of the society, and be present at the opening
of it ; and if such member so inhabiting said city, or within one
mile thereof, shall neglect to attend as aforesaid, he shall forfeit
and pay to the society for their use the sum of twenty-five cents for
ao-a
306 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
each and every such neglect ; and every member who does not live
in said city nor within one mile thereof, but lives within ten miles
of the same, shall attend a meeting of the society once in every
year, at least, and be present at the opening of it or forfeit and pay
the like sum for the use of the society. And every member who
does not live in said city nor within ten miles of the same, shall be
exempt from attending the regular meetings in person, but shall
attend once annually, at least, or shall forfeit and pay the like sum
to the society for their use, without in each of the above cases the
excuse of necessary absence, sickness or the infirmties of old age ;
and the same fines and penalties shall be levied upon all absentees
from the adjourned annual meeting from the third Thursday in
November in each and every year; and the secretary shall notify
each member of all meetings.
Article 5. That no person shall be elected a member of this
society unless at the time of his proposed election he is or has been
a commander or master of a vessel, nor shall such election be
made but at the annual meeting of the society on the third Thurs-
day in November or the adjourned meeting of that day.
Article 6. That previous to the election of any person as a
member of this society, he shall be proposed by one of the mem-
bers and stand a candidate at least three months before the annual
meeting in November.
Article 7. That at all elections for the admission of members,
after the candidate is named, the question of yea or nay shall be
determined by the use of balls and cubes, the balls shall designate
yea, and the cubes nay, and each member present shall be provided
with one of each. If two-thirds of the votes are yea the candidate
is elected, and the secretary shall give him notice thereof. Two-
tnirds of the votes shall be requisite for a choice.
Article 8. That every member upon his election into the so-
ciety shall pay to the secretary forty dollars for the use of the
society ; and in case of refusal after three months to pay the same,
he shall be expelled from the society ; and the society may increase
the sum to be paid on admission from year to year at any of their
annual meetings as the state of their funds shall require, or they
shall think expedient.
Article 9. That every member of the society shall, at every
quarterly meeting pay the sum of twenty-five cents to the secre-
tary for the use of the society ; and if any member shall refuse to
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 307
pay the same he shall be fined one dollar on refusing to pay which
he shall be disfranchised. The society shall have the power to re-
mit the quarterly dues of any member who shall make application
for the same, and who shall be unable to pay through misfortunes
or losses. All members of twenty years standing and upwards shall
be excused from paying quarterly dues.
Article 10. That if any member shall neglect to make his
quarterly payments when at home, for the space of six months
without being excused therefrom, the society may at any of their
meetings disfranchise him.
Article 1 1 . That if any member shall refuse to pay any pen-
alty, forfeiture or quarterly dues, incurred or due from him to the
society and the same shall be recovered from him in any court of
law, the society may after such recovery so had, disfranchise and
expel such refractory member for his contumacy.
Article 12. That all penalties and forfeitures incurred by the
breach of any by-law of this society, and all the quarterly payments
aforesaid shall accrue to the society and become part of their es-
tate and the whole estate shall be managed and disposed of for the
benefit of the society by the committee of finance chosen by written
ballot at the annual meeting in November in each year ; which com-
mittee shall at all times conform themselves to the directions of
the society in the management and disposition of their estate ; and
the society may at any of their meetings remove from office any of
said committee at their pleasure and fill up all vacancies by written
vote.
Article 13. That the committee of finance shall have the
power to invest the funds of this society in the funded debt of the
United States, bank stock or other public stocks and securities.
Article 14. That the whole estate of the society shall be ap-
propriated to defray the charges and expenses of their preserva-
tion and advancement, and for carrying into execution their sev-
eral orders, regulations and by-laws and for the relief of such in-
digent members and the widows of deceased members, who shall,
in the opinion of the society be proper objects for their relief ; such
relief to be applied by granting temporary assistance or annual
stated pensions as the society shall think proper. Such temporary
relief may be granted at any of their meetings, but an annual pen-
sion shall be granted only at the yearly meeting of the society in
November ; and no temporary relief shall be allowed to any mem-
308 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
ber of the society nor to the widow of any deceased member un-
less such member has belonged to the society six months at the
least, and during that time has complied with all the by-laws and
has not been disfranchised ; and no member, nor the widow of any
deceased member, shall be entitled to any annual pension unless
such member has belonged to the society seven years at least, and
during that time has complied with all the by-laws and has not
been disfranchised.
Article 15. That all applications to the society for an annual
pension shall be made at a meeting held three months at least be-
fore their annual meeting in November. All applications for tem-
porary relief may be made at any of their meetings for the con-
sideration of the society, who may, if they think proper, immedi-
ately proceed to consider such application and allow such relief as
they shall judge necessary. All applications for annual pensions
particularly, or temporary relief, shall be made in writing.
Article 16. That each member at the annual meeting in No-
vember, shall, when called on by the president, produce his book
of by-laws, with his name written on the cover and first blank page,
under a penalty of twenty-five cents for such neglect, to be paid
the secretary for the use of the society.
Article 17. That if any member at any meeting of the society
shall excite any quarrel or disturbance, by which the good order,
harmony and regularity of the meeting shall be interrupted, and
being judged guilty thereof by the society, he shall forfeit and pay
to the society five dollars for every time he shall so offend, and
make acknowledgment of his fault by a sufficient apology.
Article 18. That if any member shall at any meeting of the
society profanely swear or curse, and be adjudged guilty thereof,
he shall forfeit and pay the society one dollar for every profane
oath or curse he shall be guilty of uttering.
Article 19. That if any member shall in the opinion of the so-
ciety be guilty of any notorious crime, or be a common drunkard,
or be otherwise notoriously scandalous in his life and conversation,
the society may at any of their meetings disfranchise him and ex-
pel him from the society.
Article 20. That any member disfranchised by the society may
be proposed again in the lawful manner as a candidate, and may
be re-elected into the society upon such terms and conditions as
the society may think proper to impose, he acknowledging and
making sufficient apology for his errors before being proposed as
a candidate, through and by the member proposing him.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 309
Article 21. That every member present in the city of New-
buryport at the time of the funeral in that city of any deceased
member shall punctually and seasonably attend agreeably to the
notice transmitted him by the secretary, per order of the President,
Vice President or Treasurer, or forfeit to the use of the society for
ncn-attendance, twenty-five cents, unless disabled by ill health or
the infirmities of old age, and the expense of giving such notice
shall be" defrayed by the society.
Article 22. That the secretary shall demand and receive all
fines, quarterly dues and entrance fees, and pay them over to the
treasurer who shall keep a just and fair account of all monies paid
in and out of the treasury, to whom and when, and no payments
shall be made by him but by vote of the society, and order of the
president or vice president.
Article 23. That any of the by-laws may be altered, amended
or repealed at any annual meeting in November by its being sub-
mitted to the society in writing three months at least previous, and
provided two-thirds of the members present shall be in favor of
such alterations, amendment or repeal.
Article 24. That one of the finance committee or treasurer
are authorized to attend at the annual meetings or special meet-
ings of any corporation in which the Marine Society is interested,
and that they have full power to represent the stock.
Article 25. That the relief committee be authorized to grant
temporary relief not exceeding twenty dollars in any one case.
Feb. 18, 1904, the office of superintendent of rooms being va-
cant on account of the death of Capt. Moses J. Mulliken, Capt.
Charles W. Reed was nominated and elected as superintendent of
rooms.
Voted, that Capt. William H. Bayley and Capt. Oliver O.
Jones write the history of the society.
Nov. 17, 1904, officers elected:
Capt. John N. Prit chard, President.
Capt. Isaac N. Colby, Vice President.
Capt. Oliver O. Jones, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary.
Finance committee :
Capt. Richard Newell,
Capt. George P. Spalding,
Capt. William H. Bayley.
20-b
3IO RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Relief committee :
Capt. Benjamin C. Emerton,
Capt. Isaac N. Colby,
Capt. Charles W. Reed.
Superintendent of rooms, Capt. Charles W. Reed.
Voted, that the thanks of the society be sent to Mrs. John C.
Kimball for the gift of an oil painting of a ship under full sail.
Dec. i, 1904, the report of the relief committee recommending
the sum of $1175 be paid to the beneficiaries, was accepted.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Benjamin C. Emerton died at home, Dec. 22, 1904, and
was buried in the Highland Cemetery, Dec. 24, aged 82 years, 11
months. Nine members of the society attended the funeral.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Charles W. Reed died at home, March 2, 1905, aged 60
years, and was buried in the Cemetery at Amesbury, March 5,
1905. Nine members of the society attended the funeral.
The president stated that on account of the death of Capt.
Emerton, a vacancy had occurred on the relief committee, and
Capt. William H. Bayley was elected to serve out the unexpired
term.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown, president of the Marine Society
from November 26, 1896 to November 19, 1903, died December
10, 1903, aged 72 years, 9 months, 19 days, and was buried at Oak
Hill Cemetery, the members of the society attending the funeral.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Moses J. Mulliken, superintendent of the rooms of the
society for years, died December 23, 1903, aged 87 years, 2 months.
19 days, and was buried at Oldtown Cemetery, the members of the
society attending the funeral.
OBITUARY.
Capt. John R. Howard joined the Marine Society Nov. 29,
1877, died at Deer Isle, Me., July 1, 1904, aged 60 years, 2 months.
The society did not attend the funeral.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 3II
OBITUARY.
Capt. John F. Pike joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1877,
died at Worcester, Sept. 15, 1904, aged 59 years, 5 months. His
remains were brought to Newburyport and interred at Oak Hill
Cemetery, the members of the society attending the funeral.
OBITUARY.
Capt. William Reed joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1863,
died Oct. 11, 1904, aged 82 years, and was buried at Oldtown
Cemetery, the members of the society attending the funeral.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Frank A. Janvrin joined the Marine Society Nov. 25,
1880, died Nov. 5, 1904, aged 70 years, 2 months, 19 days, and was
buried at Oldtown Cemetery, the members of the society attend-
ing the funeral.
OBITUARY.
Capt. James Frank Tilton joined the Marine Society Nov. 25,
1869, died at Portsmouth, N. H., Dec. 22, 1904, aged 67 years.
His remains were brought to Amesbury and buried in Mount Pros-
pect Cemetery, the members of the society attending the funeral.
OBITUARY.
Capt. Edmund J. Pike joined the Marine Society Nov. 24,
1864, died in Philadelphia, Oct. 19, 1905, aged 67 years. His re-
mains were brought to Newburyport and buried at Oak Hill
Cemetery, the members of the society attending the funeral.
A copy of the will of Capt. Mark Symonds bequeathing the
sum of two thousand dollars upon the death of his daughter, was
presented by Capt. Newell, and it was voted to place it in the trunk
in the bank.
There being no superintendent of the rooms on account of the
death of Capt. Charles W. Reed, Capt. Charles H.Colby was elected
for the remainder of the year.
Nov. 16, 1905, officers elected:
Capt. Isaac N. Colby, President.
Capt. George P. Spalding, Vice President.
Capt. Oliver O. Jones, Treasurer.
Capt. William H. Bayley, Secretary
312 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Finance committee :
Capt. Richard Newell,
Capt. William H. Bayley,
Capt. George P. Spalding.
Relief committee :
Capt. Isaac N. Colby,
Capt. William H. Bayley,
Capt. Fred A. Kezar.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 313
INCIDENTS IN THE LIVES OF THE MEMBERS OF THE
MARINE SOCIETY
AS THEY APPEAR UPON THE ROEE.
Note. We are indebted to the Newburyport Herald of the early days ;
the History of Newburyport, by Mrs. E. Vale Smith ; History of Newbury,
by Hon. J. J. Currier ; History of Essex County ; and the use of books in
the public libraries of Newburyport and Boston ; to Hon. Moses Brown, Mr.
John W. Sargent, Miss Edith R. Wills, Captain James Knapp, of Newbury-
port ; Mr. Edmund Wheelwright, of Boston ; and Mr. John F. Johnson, of
Amesbury ; and to many relatives of our deceased members ; for much
interesting data.
CAPT. THOMAS JONES,
Joined the Marine Society, Nov. 5, 1772.
Died May 2, 1794, aged 68 years.
He was deputy master from Nov. 6, 1777 to Nov. 29, 1778.
Capt. Jones was one of the six ship masters who met at the
home of Capt. Benjamin Rogers and formed the Marine Society.
His sea life was in trading to the West Indies in small vessels. He
was in command of the sloop Washington in 1785, of 67 tons ; later
of ship Minerva. Upon the records at Salem, we find "May i,
1773, Thomas Jones sold to Daniel Lunt, mariner, half the house
lot in Newburyport which was formerly Moses Cross' lot, with
half the buildings."
"Capt. Thomas Jones gave a mortgage deed to Capt. William
P. Johnson for a loan of $4300 of a farm in Newbury, being all of
that farm bequeathed to him by Mrs. Hannah Dummer, deceased."
Later this mortgage was discharged.
CAPT. WILLIAM WYER,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 5, 1772,
Died Aug. 14, 1810, aged 75 years.
Capt. William Wyer was one of the six to form the Marine
Society in 1772. He was in command of the brig Two Brothers
and brig Essex, schooner Sally and schooner Polly, collector of
314 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
customs in 1798, part owner of ship Moses Brown in 1805, and
was awarded by England the sum of 3179 pounds, 16 shillings for
the loss of the ship Lucy.
CAPT. BENJAMIN ROGERS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 5, 1772.
Died April 10, 1812.
Capt. Benjamin Rogers, one of the founders of the Marine
Society, was engaged in the "West India trade, and in command of
schooner Dolphin, sloop Nancy and the brig Polly. In 1799 he was
called an Inn holder, residing in what is now called the Ilsley
house, then called the Pine Tree Tavern, opposite the head of
Marlboro street, and it was in this house where the charter mem-
bers of the Marine Society met and laid the foundation of a society
which has done so much good since that time. We find in the rec-
ords at Salem, June 5, 1799, "Benjamin Rogers, Inn holder, bought
for $250, (paid by the Marine Society), land in Newburyport, with
the buildings thereon on Ash Lane, twelve rods and 15-100 of a
rod. Dec. 12, 1820, Capt. Nicholas Johnson took up this mort-
gage, and for $250 from Moody Pearson, Merchant, gave a war-
ranty deed to a lot of land with the buildings on Ash Lane 12 and
15-100 rods, with 1-3 part of a wall, signed Nicholas Johnson,
master of Marine Society, John Fitz, justice of the peace."
CAPT. SAMUEL NEWHALL,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 5, 1772,
Died, 1782.
Clerk of the society from Nov. 13, 1772 to Nov. 26, 1778.
Deputy Master from Nov. 26, 1778 to Nov. 25, 1779.
Treasurer from Nov. 25, 1779 to Nov. 29, 1781.
Capt. Newhall was in command of brig John in 1774, and of
ship Vengeance July 5, 1779. He took an active part in the affairs
of the town. During the stirring time of the Revolution, he was
second lieutenant in Capt. Thomas' company in the expedition to
Rhode Island in 1777. Was one of the committee of safety in 1776.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 315
CAPT. MICHAEL HODGE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 5, 1772,
Died June 24, 1816, aged 73 years.
Treasurer of the society from Nov. 6, 1777 to Nov. 26, 1778.
Clerk from Nov. 26, 1778 to Nov. 29, 1804.
Master from Nov. 29, 1804 to Nov. 25, 1813.
From a journal kept by Michael Hodge, (mate) we learn that
on Feb. 25, 1768, he left Newburyport in the schooner Defiance,
Jonathan Boardman, master, bound to Point Petre in Guadaloupe.
They sailed from Newburyport in company with several vessels
bound to the West Indies. One of these vessels (name unknown),
was commanded by Capt. Jonathan Parsons, one by Capt. Thomas
Jones, and another by Capt. William Noyes.
Mr. Hodge arrived at Point Petre on March 27, and on July
13, arrived home, voyage 3 months, 18 days. His next voyage as
mate was in the schooner Polly, Jonathan Boardman, master, leav-
ing Newburyport, Aug. 21, 1768, for Dominico, arrived Sept. 18,
after visiting several small islands, trading off their cargo. At one
of the islands they fell in with Capt. Enoch Pike, a member of
the Marine Society, who was also trading. They sailed for New-
buryport on Oct. 8, arrived home Nov. 9.
His next voyage was master of the schooner Sally, sailing for
Dominico March 23, 1769, arrived out April 29, and found there
many ship masters from Newburyport, Capts. William Friend,
William Stickney, Joseph Rowe, James Brown, all members of the
Marine Society.
June 20, Capt. Joseph Newman arrived July 28, at St. Lucia,
there were ten ship masters, all members of the Marine Society.
On Aug. 8, sailed in company with Capt. Thomas, Cape. Titcomb
and Capt Lunt from Eustatia for Newburyport. Arrived home
Aug. 30, 5 months, 7 days voyage. After making a few more voy-
ages in the schooner Sally, brig Essex and schooner Defiance he
retired from the sea about 1770. There is no doubt that many of
our early shipmasters were engaged in the West India trade and
in very small vessels. It is difficult to conceive how such voyages
could be made remunerative. The cargo of the schooner Sally of
106 tons, of which Capt. Hodge was master, consisted of dried fish,
lumber, staves, and shingles, and the crew were versed in making
their own casks in which to bring home molasses, which they re-
316 RKCORDS AND HISTORY OF
ceived in trade for their outward cargo, going around among the
islands which were scarcely populated, and picking up a little at
each port. Capt. Hodge after retiring from the sea became inter-
ested in town affairs, foremost in energy and public spirit, he read
the declaration of independence from the window of the meeting
house in Market Square to a crowd who received it with cheers.
He held various offices in the town, among them the office of town
clerk from 1780 to 1789, on the board of selectmen in 1784, 1785.
With his associates Captains Coats, Newhall, Coombs, Thomas
and Wigglesworth, all members of the Marine Society, were
among the most active in sinking piers in the river and erecting
fortifications about its mouth.
When the military forces of the town were organized in 1775,
six captains of guns were appointed, viz: Captains William
Coombs, David Coats, William Friend, Michael Hodge and
Thomas Thomas with six to eight men attached to each gun.
Capt. Hodge was first lieutenant of the Newburyport Artillery Co.
in 1778 afterwards the Cushing Guards. In 1776 an act was passed
by the general assembly of the state of Massachusetts entitled an
"act for establishing a naval office and for ascertaining the fees"
which provided that in the several sea ports of Boston, Salem,
Marblehead, Gloucester, Newburyport, York, Pepperelborough,
Falmouth on Casco Bay, Townsend, Penobscot, Goldsboro, Ma-
chias, Plymouth, Barnstable, Dartmouth and Nantucket, within
this state there to be an office kept to be called and known by the
name of the Naval office, and Capt. Michael Hodge, a charter
member of the Marine Society, was appointed as naval officer Nov.
22, 1776, the fees of his office were :
L. P.
For entering any ship or vessel from any part of the state 2
For clearing any ship or vessel to any part of the state 2
For entering any ship or vessel from any other part of the U. S. 6
For clearing any ship or vessel to any other part of the U. S. 6
For entering any ship or vessel from a foreign voyage 6
For clearing any ship or vessel for a foreign voyage 6
For a register 6
For indorsing a register I
For recording indorsement I 6
For any bond 2
For a certificate to cancel bond I
For a bill of health 2
For a permit to unload I
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 317
Capt. Hodge continued as naval officer until 1798, when New-
buryport was made a port of entry. Capt. Hodge was made sur-
veyor which office he held until his death, June 24, 1816. He was
the son of Charles and Elizabeth Titcomb Hodge and was married
to Sarah Sewell.
CAPT. EDWARD WIGGLESWORTH,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 5, 1772.
Died Dec. 8, 1826, aged 84 years.
Capt. Edward Wigglesworth was born in Ipswich in 1742, and
after graduating at Harvard in 1761 removed to Newburyport and
entered the employ of Nathaniel Tracy and Jonathan Jackson as
supercargo and shipmaster. In 1776 as colonel he commanded a
regiment raised in Essex, York and Cumberland Counties under
General Gates. Under instructions from General Gates he went
on board the fleet on Lake Champlain, the third in command in
1779, being in feeble health he resigned his commission and re-
tired to private life. In accepting his resignation the following
certificate was forwarded to him by the commander-in-chief:
"I certify that Edward Wigglesworth, Esq., hath served in the
army of the United States of America with the rank of Colonel,
commanding a regiment belonging to the state of Massachusetts
Bay, and that he uniformly supported the character of an atten-
tive, brave and patriotic officer."
Given under my hand at headquarters, Middlebrook, this
nineteenth day of March, 1779.
GEORGE WASHINGTON.
Capt. Wigglesworth having lost all his property in the service
of his country, was appointed collector of the port in 1792 by Gen-
eral Washington, which office he held until 1795. He was pen-
sioned by President Munroe in his old age as a full colonel.
CAPT. WILLIAM FRIEND,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 5, 1772.
Died Jan. 1, 1781, aged 52 years, 8 months, 4 days.
Coffin's history informs us "Aug. 21, 1777 Capt. William
Friend in a sixteen gunship called the Neptune, built in Mr. Cross'
yard, sailed, and when about a league from the bar overset and
3l8 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
sunk in sixteen fathoms of water, having on board sixty hands,
only one drowned."
Jan. i, 1 781, Capt. Friend was cast away on Boon Island and
drowned. March 9, 1776, was appointed one of the committee on
safety.
CAPT. JAMES HUDSON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 13, 1772.
Died Nov. 29, 1792 aged 73 years.
Master from Nov. 20, 1772 to Nov. 28, 1781.
Capt. James Hudson was born in 1719. Of his life at sea we
find no record. He became a member of the Marine Society when
53 years of age. He was of much assistance to the town during
the Revolutionary war, was one of the committee of safety ap-
pointed by the town to execute the resolve of Congress, respecting
the militia in 1774 and authorized to incur any expense which the
safety of the town required. Among the independent companies
formed was one by the Marine Society of Newburyport. James
Hudson was captain, Thomas Thomas, David Coats, Michael
Hodge and Samuel Newhall were the officers. They were called
the Independent Marine Company, composed of 76 persons. Their
colors were expressive not only of their profession, but combined
the insignia of the state, and their sentiment in regard to war the
standard being a blue anchor on a red field supported by a pine
tree and olive branch. One rule they adopted was that every ne-
glect of duty by an officer should be subject to double the penalty
imposed on a private.
Capt. Hudson was for many years engaged in the manufac-
ture of salt. The works were erected by him on the Salisbury
shore in 1767. On June 18, 1777, the general court granted him
the sum of 200 pounds to enable him to enlarge his works, and in-
crease the production of salt.
CAPT. JONATHAN PARSONS, JR.,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 13, 1772.
Died Dec. 29, 1784, aged 49 years.
First Master from Nov. 13, 1772 to Nov. 20, 1772.
Capt. Jonathan Parsons, Jr., was born at Lyme, Conn., April
25» l735- During his life he was considered one of the most hon-
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 319
est and faithful shipmasters of his day, so strict was his known ad-
herence to honesty and truth that it was frequently found that the
West India merchants could trust to his report of his cargo with-
out examination. On one of his voyages to Point Petre, a malig-
nant fever seized upon an Americion captain there whom he attend-
ed and cared for some time after. On the passage from St. Martins
to Turks Island, Capt. Parsons was taken sick with the same fever,
and carried ashore at Turks Island, but not being able to have the
care and nursing which his sickness required, he left there on Dec.
29, and went to sea, immediately grew worse and died the same
day he left port. Capt. Parsons was one of the committee of safe-
ty in 1776. His funeral sermon was preached in the First Pres-
byterian church in Newburyport, Feb. 27, 1785, by Rev. John
Murray.
CAPT. HENRY FRIEND,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 13, 1772.
Died Jan. 10, 1820, aged 89 years.
Deputy Master from Nov. 13, 1772 to Nov. 4, 1774.
CAPT. DAVID COATS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 13, 1772.
Died June, 1791, aged 54 years, 7 months, 25 days.
Deputy Master from Nov. 28, 1782 to Nov. 24, 1791.
Capt. David Coats was a native of Gloucester, and before the
war sailed as master in the employ of Nathaniel Tracy and Jona-
than Jackson. Capt. Coats served in the legislature in 1783, 1784,
1785, and was one of the selectmen of the town. He commanded
one of the four vessels which were sent from Newburyport by the
merchants to drive the British out of Penobscot Bay, and in 1786
he commanded the brig Beaver, brig Hannah, and brig Mehitable
in the West India trade.
CAPT. JOSEPH NOYES,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 13, 1772.
Died Jan. 5, 1828, aged 89 years, 6 months, 1 day.
Capt. Noyes commanded the brig Lively.
320 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
CAPT. WILLIAM COOMBS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 13, 1772.
Died May 2y, 1814.
Treasurer from Nov. 13, 1772 to Nov. 2, 1775.
Deputy Master from Nov. 2, 1775 to Nov. 6, 1777.
Master from Nov. 28, 1782 to Nov. 29, 1804.
Capt. William Coombs was born in 1736 and followed the sea
in his early life, sailing in the sloop Three Friends, brig Peace,
sloop Stork, brig Bee, brig Stork, schooner Fame, schooner Fox,
schooner Port Packet. He was very prominent in town affairs
after he retired from sea, being representative to the General Court
in 1778, 1779, 1801, 1802. Trustee of Dummer Academy, founder
of the Massachusetts society for promoting Christian knowledge.
His last voyage at sea was in 1775 and was undertaken just before
hostilities commenced, for the purpose of obtaining from Guada-
loupe arms and ammunition such as he knew would be needed in
the coming conflict. On his return he surrendered his cargo to
the town authorities without any stipulated recompense. Capt.
William Coombs was one of the incorporators of the Merrimac
Humane Society and one of its vice presidents. He was awarded
a gold medal by the trustees for his heroic act in saving a child of
Mr. Paul Plumer, who had fallen from a raft into deep water be-
tween 6 and 7 feet of water, off Coombs' wharf, Capt. Coombs be-
ing then over 76 years of age.
CAPT. JOSEPH ROWE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 13, 1772.
Died Nov. 27, 1797.
Capt. Joseph Rowe while in command of the ship Franklin,
was captured by the British frigate Albion, sent to Plymouth and
confined until March 18, 1777, when he was released. In Dec. 30,
1776, he was in command of ship Montgomery.
CAPT. THOMAS THOMAS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 13, 1772.
Disfranchised March 30, 1786.
Treasurer Nov. 7, 1776 to Nov. 6, 1777.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 32 1
Capt. Thomas Thomas was born in Yales, Eng., in 1737. Be-
fore the war of 1775 he was in the employ of Michael Dalton,
father of Hon. Tristram Dalton, U. S. Senator.
Capt. Thomas assisted in the formation of the company now
known as the Newburyport Veteran Artillery Company, and was
its first commander, with Capt. David Coats as captain lieutenant.
Capt. Michael Hodge as first lieutenant, Capt. Samuel Newnall as
second lieutenant, the company was formed in the winter of 1777
and its four principal officers were members of the Marine Society.
In July, 1778, they marched as volunteers in the expedition to
Rhode Island. In 1785, Michael Hodge, also a member of the
Marine Society, was elected as captain of the company.
Capt. Thomas was one of the nine merchants to furnish four
vessels of war for the disastrous expedition to Penobscot, viz :
Ship Sky Rocket, Capt. Burke.
Ship Monmouth, Capt. Alexander Ross.
Ship Vengeance, Capt. Thomas Thomas.
Brigatine Pallas, Capt. James Johnson.
In this expedition he was driven up the river by the British
fleet, his ship was burned by order of the commodore to prevent
her falling into the hands of the British and the crew took to the
woods and on foot found their way back to Newburyport.
While in command of the "Yankee Hero" on March 1, 1776,
Capt. Thomas captured the British brig Nelly, Capt. Robinson,
bound from Whitehaven to Boston, her cargo consisted of 200
tons of coal and 10 tons of potatoes. Up to 1810 only two vessels
had been built on the Merrimac exceeding 350 tons, these were the
ship Caledonia, 357 tons, built at Amesbury in 1805, and the ship
Maryland, built at Newbury, in 1807, both of these vessels were
built for Capt. Thomas. In 1810 he built the ship Fingal, 382 tons,
brig Gossamer, 224 tons. May 2.y, 1795 Capt. Thomas bought the
house now known as the Dexter house for L2000. He died Aug.
2, 1796. His children sold the house to Timothy Dexter, Aug. 15.
1798, for $6360.
CAPT. JOSEPH NEWMAN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 13, 1772.
Died at Gloucester, Jan. 11, 1788.
Capt. Joseph Newman in his will, probated Aug. 25, 1778,
left his house, barn, notes of hand and a quarter part of the
21-a
322 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
schooner Sally, and a quarter part of her cargo, his store and forty
rods of land, situated in New Lane, to his wife Sarah. He was
master of the brig Industry.
CAPT. WILLIAM P. JOHNSON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 13, 1772.
Died June 4, 18904.
Deputy Master from Nov. 24, 1796 to Nov. 29, 1804.
Capt. Johnson was in command of the brig American Hero in
1776, brig William in 1783, brig Sally in 1785, brig Industry in
1789, brig Henry in 1781. Capt. Johnson after retiring from the
sea became a successful merchant and importer of foreign goods.
At his decease the inventory of his estate amounted to more than
$116,000, including the brigantine Elizabeth Coates and her cargo
consisting of 88 hhds. sugar, 6182 gallons of molasses, one-half of
invoice of schooner Polly and Sally, $3800 freight money of brigan-
tine Ann from Trieste, $300 real estate, dwelling house and barn
on Federal street valued at $8000, wharf and three stores on Water
street $12,000, old house and land on Water street $2000, farm
and buildings thereon at Byfield, $10,000.
CAPT. ANTHONY KNAP,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 13, 1772.
Died at Demarara, Sept. 25, 1792, aged 50 years.
Capt. Knap was born in Newbury, Jan. 29, 1743, and was the
son of Nathaniel and Sarah Hart Knap, was first lieutenant of the
privateer brig Dalton of Newburyport and was captured by the
English Man of War Raisonable, Dec. 24, 1776 and carried to
England and confined in the old mill prison at Plymouth. After a
confinement of sixteen months, he escaped. A clergyman, Rev.
Robert Heath, was very kind to him while in prison and on his
return home he named his first child Robert Heath Knap in
grateful remembrance of his friend.
CAPT. ELEAZER JOHNSON, JR.,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 13, 1772.
Died June 22, 1788.
. THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 333
Capt. Eleazer Johnson, Jr., sailed from Newburyport Nov. 15,
1776, in command of privateer brig Dalton mounting 18 carriage
guns and 16 swivels with 120 men. From a journal kept by Mr.
Samuel Cutter, clerk to Capt. Johnson, we glean the following in-
cidents of his cruise. "Dec. 24, 1776, Latt. 44N. Long, 14W., we
were captured by the English ship Raisonable, 64 guns, they
boarded us sword in hand and .sent us all on board their ship with-
out suffering us to take our clothes. Upon our arrival into Plym-
outh harbor we were transferred to the ship Bellilse. Feb. 7, 1777
we were again transferred to the ship Torbay, 74 guns, where we
were confined between decks in a pen built forward much like a
sheep pen, so small we could not all lie down at the same time.
Feb. 13, we were again transferred to the frigate Burford, 70 guns,
George Bowger commander, a man of humanity, tenderness and
compassion. May 7 we were again transferred to the ship Blen-
heim, 90 guns, Capt. Hartwell. June 2, 1777 Capt. Johnson and
seven others belonging to the Dalton were sent on shore and con-
fined in the Mill prison. Among the prisoners confined were An-
thony Knap, Henry Lunt, Offin Boardman, all of whom later in
life became members of the Marine Society.
We were all committed to the largest prison, 132 feet by 23
feet, without any distinction, officers, people and negroes all in the
same room. We were treated worse than the French were last
fall in this same prison. Pens, paper, ink, candles, rope, etc., were
debarred us and no person was allowed to come into the outer yard
to speak to us. Our food consisted of 3-4 pound beef, one pound
bread, and 1 quart ordinary beer for 24 hours. Oct. 26, 1777,
many of them escaped and arrived home in December."
CAPT. JEREMIAH PEARSON, JR.,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 13, 1772.
Died at sea, July 25, 1800.
CAPT. JOSEPH CHOATE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 20, 1772,
Disfranchised Sept. 24, 1778.
Deputy Master Nov. 4, 1774 to Nov. 2, 1775.
CAPT. JOHN BARNARD,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 20, 1772.
Expelled Nov. 29, 1781.
324 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
CAPT. MOSES HALE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 20, 1772.
Disfranchised Nov. 29, 1781.
CAPT. WILLIAM NOYES,
Joined the Marine Society Jan. 7, 1773.
Died Nov. 7, 1831, aged 92 years.
Capt. Noyes sailed in the brig Betsey, brig Lively, schooners
William, Sally and Amazon. He was captured during the war by
a British cruiser and himself and crew confined in Dartmouth
prison, England.
.' CAPT. JAMES NICOLL,
Joined the Marine Society Jan. 7, 1773.
Died Oct. 20, 1789.
CAPT. WILLIAM STICKNEY,
Joined the Marine Society Feb. 4, 1773.
Died July 30, 1800.
Treasurer Nov. 2, 1775 to Nov. 7, 1776.
CAPT. NATHANIEL NOWELL,
Joined the Marine Society May 6, 1773.
Disfranchised Aug. 29, 1816.
Capt. Nowell sailed in schooners Atlantic, Hazard, and brig
Hope, and schooner Dolphin. While in command of brig Betsy
was captured by the British and taken to Port Dolphin.
CAPT. WILLIAM COFFIN,
Joined the Marine Society June 3, 1773.
Expelled Oct. 6, 1774.
CAPT. JOHN BUNTIN,
Joined the Marine Society Oct. 7, 1773.
Died 1787, aged 57 years.
Capt. Buntin commanded the brig America.
CAPT. MOSES BROWN.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NKWBURYPORT 325
CAPT. JAMES JOHNSON,
Joined the Marine Society March 3, 1774.
Died at sea, Dec. 25, 1784.
CAPT. ROBERT JENKINS,
Joined the Marine Society March 3, 1774.
Dec. 1821, Capt. Jenkins was presented with two goblets by
the Merrimac Humane Society for saving two young lads from
drowning.
CAPT. MOSES BROWN,
Joined the Marine Society Oct. 6, 1774.
Died at sea, Jan. 1, 1804, aged 61 years, 11 months, 8 days.
The following narrative of Capt. Moses Brown was written
by his great-grandson, Hon. Moses Brown, mayor of the city of
Newburyport in 1901.
Capt. Moses Brown, born Jan. 23, 1742. He was fourth in de-
scent from Nicholas Brown, who came from Warwickshire and
settled in Lynn in 1630.
Capt. Brown was the son of Edward Brown of Salisbury,
(Ring's Island), who was captain of a company during the old
French war, 1759-60.
In the year 1757, Moses Brown, being then 15 years of age,
was apprenticed to Capt. William Coffin to go to sea, and at once
sailed on his first voyage, which was to Halifax. During his ap-
prenticeship he was employed in many small vessels on voyages
to the West Indies and to ports upon our own coast.
In 1 761 he was one of the crew of schooner Phebe, James
Robinson, master. The schooner was employed by the British
government as a transport for stores and troops between New
York and Louisburg, and it was in that vessel that Brown had the
first of his many experiences in naval warfare. On a passage from
New York to the West Indies, the Phebe having on board a com-
pany of Highland soldiers, became parted from her convoy and
fell in with two French privateers. She engaged them both, the
captain was wounded, the lieutenant killed with seven others.
Among the wounded was young Brown, then 19 years of age and
still apprentice to Capt. Coffin. The schooner after the action
made her way to Guadaloupe, where Brown remained in the hos-
21-b
326 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
pital two months. He reached home in due time and was employed
in short voyages until the end of his apprenticeship in 1763. Sep-
tember 6th, 1764, he was married to Sarah Coffin of Newburyport.
and on the 14th day of the same month he sailed away for the West
Indies.
During the years 1763-64-65-66-67 he was constantly em-
ployed at sea. In 1767 his old master, Capt. Coffin, gave him com-
mand of the sloop Susannah in which vessel, and others he contin-
ued as master until 1772. During one of his voyages in 1765, he
had the small pox severely, was supposed to be dead, was wrapped
in canvas and was about to be launched into the deep, when the
captain thought that he saw some slight movement. He ordered the
lashings to be cut, the supposed corpse was taken below and after-
ward recovered.
In 1772 Capt. Brown took command of the brig Martha, and
in 1774 made a voyage in the brig Betsey, visiting Cadiz and Bar-
celona in Spain, Venice in Italy, thence to England, thence to the
Mediterranean, returning to London in 1776. He had previously
sold his vessel and he records in his journal that he remained in
England two months "seeing the fashions of London. He arrived
at his home in Newburyport Dec. 1, 1776.
To use his own expression, he found the country all in arms.
Early in 1777 he took command of the brig Hannah and sailed for
the West Indies, but in 48 hours was captured by the British frigate
Diamond and was sent to a prison ship at Rhode Island.
In July Capt. Brown reached his home once more, and took
command of the privateer ship Gen. Arnold of 18 guns. He com-
manded the Arnold during three cruises, fighting many warm bat-
tles and taking various prizes. During the third cruise, however,
he was captured by the 50 gun ship Experiment, and was for some
time again a prisoner of war.
In November Capt. Brown was exchanged and after 14
months' absence arrived at his home, as he says "without money
or goods, only one poor heart and that almost broken with hard-
ship."
During the years from 1780 and to the end of the war in 1783
Capt. Brown made voyages to Europe in command of armed ves-
sels, among others the brig Mercury, and the ships Minerva and
Intrepid. The Intrepid mounted 20 12-pounders, and her cargo on
one voyage was said to be worth $436,000.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 327
After the peace from 1783 until 1798, Capt. Brown was almost
constantly employed in various voyages, visiting ports in Ireland
and in England, the West Indies and South America.
On Saturday, Jan. 23, 1790, at Paramaibo, Capt. Brown re-
cords in his journal, that it being the 48th anniversary of his birth,
Capts. Wheelwright, Wills and Holland, all of Newburyport, dined
with him.
In 1798 during the quasi war with France, the merchants of
Newburyport built and loaned to the government, the armed ship
Merrimac. She was rated as a sloop of war, was 467 tons burthen
mounted 28 guns and had a force of 350 men. Capt. Brown in 1798
received his commission as captain in the navy and was appointed
to the command of the Merrimack. The other officers were : Mich-
ael Titcomb, first lieutenant ; Samuel Chase, second lieutenant ;
Jonathan Titcomb, sailing master ; Joseph Brown, 3rd, first mid-
shipman ; Nathan Fletcher, second midshipman ; Benjamin Whit-
more, third midshipman ; Nathaniel Bradstreet, surgeon.
The Merrimack made three cruises to the West Indies of
about six months each. She made a fine record, taking some
French vessels of war and fighting numerous actions. She acted
as a convoy for fleets of merchant vessels, retaking a number of
prizes from the French.
In 1800 the war ended and the Merrimack, with most ships of
her class, was sold by the government, and the captains and other
officers were generally dismissed.
After 1800 Capt. Brown resumed the practice of his profession
in the merchant service, and on Jan. 1, 1804 being homeward bound
from Guadaloupe he was seized with apoplexy, dying at the age
of 62 years, in sight of Long Island, where he was buried in the
sea.
[NEWBURYPORT HERALD, SEPTEMBER I, 1 7 99-]
Navy Department, Sept.. 7, 1799.
Extract from a letter from Capt. Moses Brown, U. S. ship
Merrimack, to the secretary of the navy, dated at sea, August 10.
I captured last Tuesday the Letters of Marque Bonaparte from
St. Bartholomew, with a cargo of beef, pork and dry goods, and
carried her safe into St. Christopher, worth about $20,000.
3*8 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
CAPT. PETER ROBERTS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 4, 1774.
Capt. Roberts was master of the brig Lark.
CAPT. JOSHUA HILLS,
Joined the Marine Society Jan. 5, 1775.
Died Oct. 18, 1780, aged 40 years.
CAPT. WILLIAM NICHOLS,
Joined the Marine Society May 2, 1776.
Died April 20, 1784, aged 33 years.
Capt. William Nichols was born in 175 1. In his early life he
followed the sea, serving during the Revolutionary war in 1776,
both on land and sea. He was in command of the ship Monmouth
in the Penobscot expedition in 1779, which ship was burnt with
the fleet in that river by orders of the commodore to prevent their
falling into the hands of the enemy, and he with his crew were
forced to travel on foot through, what was then an unbroken
wilderness, to his home. Afterwards he was a merchant doing
business on Ferry wharf, while his residence was on Middle street
where his son William was born in 1781, who afterwards became a
member of the Marine Society in 181 1.
CAPT. ANDREW GIDDINGS,
Joined the Marine Society Jan. 2, 1777.
Died 1779.
Capt. Giddings was master of brig Sukey in 1776.
CAPT. JOSEPH STANWOOD,
Joined the Marine Society Feb. 6, 1777.
Disfranchised June 28, 1781.
Capt. Stanwood during the war of 1812 was in command of
the privateer schooner Yankee, which was captured on her second
cruise and sent to Barbadoes, and put on board the prison ship,
where 600 prisoners were confined. They were well supplied with
food, having an allowance of one-half pound good bread, one-half
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 329
pound of good salt beef, one pound of sweet potatoes and all the
water they desired. The Yankee's crew were released in 1813.
CAPT. JOHN FLETCHER,
Joined the Marine Society April 3, 1777.
Died Aug. 8, 1792, aged 50 years.
Treasurer from Nov. 29, 1781 to Nov. 30, 1786.
Capt. Fletcher was commander of brig Eliza.
CAPT. NICHOLAS JOHNSON,
Joined the Marine Society April 3, 1777.
Died Oct. 30, 1825, aged 73 years.
Treasurer from Nov. 30/1786 to Nov. 27 1800.
Deputy Master from Nov. 29, 1804 to Nov. 27, 1806.
Master from Nov. 25, 1813 to Nov. 25, 1824.
Capt. Johnson was appointed by the Navy department at
Trenton, N. J., in 1798, as agent to purchase all the supplies needed
for the ship Merrimack, being built in Newburyport, as a gift to
the government.
Capt. Johnson commanded the ship Count DeGrasse and was
the first ship to hoist the American flag in the river Thames, Lon-
don after the close of the war. He was one of the founders of the
Merrimac Humane Society in March, 1804, vice president in 1807.
The society erected huts on Plum Island and published directions
how to find them if cast ashore. These huts were furnished with
all life saving apparatus and restoratives. Capt. Johnson was one
of the selectmen in 1790, 1791, 1802. Representative to the Gen-
eral Court in 1803.
[THROUGH THE KINDNESS OF MISS EDITH WILLS.]
Navy Department, Trenton, Sept. I, 1708.
Sir: — It being necessary that a person of character and judgment
should be appointed to act as the agent of the public in superintending the
equipment of the ship building at Newburyport by the patriotic subscrip-
tions of your citizens, and as you have already had an agency as I am
informed with respect to her, and are mentioned in favorable terms
by Mr. Bartlett, I request that you will undertake to act for the public
also. I enclose for your government a list of the articles considered as
' necessary for a ship of that force and it will be desirable that the whole
330 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
of them should be supplied from there. If, however, you should find that
there are any other of the articles contained in the enclosed list that you
cannot furnish, please to send to me an exact list of them that they may
be sent to you in time. The customary commission allowed to the navy
agents in other ports is 2 per cent, on the amount of expenditures and you
will charge the same, with which I hope you will be content, as you will
also possess the gratification of rendering service to your country at this
important period. It is more desirable that you should furnish the whole
of the supplies, as the situation of Philadelphia and New York in conse-
quence of the prevailing fever will render very uncertain the obtaining
them from either of these places.
In order that you may commence your purchases, I have directed a
remittance of two thousand dollars to be sent you, and when you require
further sums you will please to advise me and they shall be forwarded.
I have the honor to be sir,
Your most obedient servant,
BENJAMIN STODDARD,
Secretary of Navy.
To Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Newburyport.
Capt. Nicholas Johnson was also agent for the U. S. ship War-
ren and Connecticut.
CAPT. AMOS TAPPAN,
Joined the Marine Society July 3, 1777.
Died 1777.
CAPT. JAMES BROWN,
Joined the Marine Society Oct. 2, 1777.
Died .
CAPT. ISAAC GREEN PEARSON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1778.
Died at Dorchester, April 24, 1821, aged 74 years.
CAPT. ENOCH PIKE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1778.
Died in the West Indies, Dec. 13, 1789.
Capt. Pike in command of the ship Count DeGrasse, arrived
into Newburyport, Sept. 6, 1784, with the small pox among the
crew.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NKWBURYPORT 33 1
CAPT. JAMES TILESTON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1778.
Died at Plymouth, England, June 5, 1788.
Jan. 20, 1777, the English Frigate Thetis, 32 guns, arrived into
Plymouth, England, with the brig Triton, Capt. James Tileston,
master, which they had captured. The Triton was on her passage
from Newburyport to Bilboa. Capt. Tileston made his escape in
two days.
CAPT. JOHN CALEF,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1778.
Died at sea, Feb. 9, 1782, aged 28 years.
Capt. Calef was lost on Plumb Island, being one of ten in a
Newburyport vessel which was cast ashore. Seven of the crew at-
tempted to reach the beach in their boat and were all lost. The
three who remained on board were saved.
CAPT. WILLIAM KNAP,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1779.
Died July 28, 1805.
Capt. William Knap, son of Samuel and Mary Robinson
Knap, was born in Newburyport, Nov. 24, 1742. He commanded
the armed brig Pallas during the Revolutionary war, and in Nov.
1779 he captured a large British ship bound from Newfoundland to
Lisbon. After the war he commanded the sloop Sally, brig Peggy,
Peace and Plenty in the West Indies trade.
CAPT. WILLIAM FARRIS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1780.
Resigned Jan. 9, 1790.
Died Nov. 26, 1837, aged 84 years.
Capt. Farris was born in Belfast, Ireland, in 1750. He came
to Newburyport when 12 years of age, entering the navy when
quite a young man as a midshipman in the frigate Boston, and
afterward as lieutenant and commander in the privateer service.
After the close of the war he formed the banking house of Farris &
Stocker, doing business with the French refugees. For some years
332 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
he was president of the Marine Insurance Company, a member of
the legislature for several years, and held various officer in the af-
fairs of the town. On one of his voyages while in the ship Ariadne
as supercargo from Alexandria bound to Cadiz with a cargo of
5000 barrels of flour, was captured by the U. S. brig of war Argus,
the cargo being Spanish property, she was carried into Philadel-
phia.
CAPT. EBENEZER STOCKER,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1780.
Disfranchised Aug. 29, 1816 .
Capt. Stocker was associated with Capt. William Farris in the
banking business. Was president of the Marine Insurance Com-
pany from 1799 to 1819, one of the founders of the Merrimac Hu-
mane Society in 1803, and treasurer Sept. 6, 1803. He held the
office of selectman of the town in 1796- 1797.
CAPT. JOHN COOMBS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1780.
Died Feb. 20, 1833, aged 87 years.
Deputy Master from Nov. 25, 1813 to Nov. 24, 1814.
Capt. Coombs commanded the following vessels in the West
Indies trade, viz : Schooners Polly, Blossom, Lydia, Hannah, Ann
and Betsey.
CAPT. ABRAHAM TOPPAN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1780.
Died at sea, April 1782, aged 40 years.
Capt. Toppan was engaged in the West Indies trade on May
15, 1781. He arrived into Newburyport in the brig Vulture with
the small pox on board and was quarantined at Plumb Island. Capt.
Toppan was born at Newbury, in 1774, son of Edward and Sarah
Bailey Toppan, he served in the Revolutionary war with his uncle,
Col. Moses Little, at Bunker Hill, was master of ship Ruby, dying
on board ship of yellow fever and was buried at sea.
CAPT. WILLIAM ARMSTRONG,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1781.
Died July 6, 1797.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 333
CAPT. GEORGE RAPALL,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1781.
Died Dec. 1783.
CAPT. BENJAMIN CONNOR,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 9, 1781.
Disfranchised Nov. 28, 1799.
CAPT. PHILIP AUBIN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1781.
Died at Guadaloupe, Aug. 25, 1801, aged 51 years.
Capt. Aubin commanded the brigs Active, Robert, Peggy,
Betsey, Hannah and Vulture and bark Ossipee.
CAPT. THOMAS TRACY,
Joined the Marine Society Dec. 6, 1781.
CAPT. WILLIAM RUSSELL,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1783.
Died March 9, 1818.
Deputy Master from Nov. 27, 1800 to Nov. 29, 1804.
Capt. Russell was in command of a small vessel called the Gen.
Ward, and fitted out as a privateer, carrying only twelve men. Her
armament consisted of one musket for each man and one small
swivel gun. Notwithstanding this small force they captured two
British brigs. , |
Capt. Russell kept store on Market Square and gave out pro-
visions to the sufferers by the great fire of 181 1. He commanded
the schooner Rising Sun and the ship William.
CAPT. WYATT ST. BARBE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1784.
Died Nov. 14, 181 1.
Deputy Master Nov. 26, 1807 to Nov. 24, 1808.
The following letter sent first to the Department of State and
forwarded by him to Capt. William Coombs, president of the Ma-
rine Society of Newburyport, contains a narrative of the bitter
experiences of Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe :
334 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Department of State, June 3, 1796.
Sir: — The enclosed letter addressed to you and the members of the
Marine Society of Newburyport from Capt. Wyatt St. Barbe, came to me
unsealed, under cover from Mr. Culsam, the counsel of the United States
at Teneriff. Presuming it was left open for the information of this de-
partment, I have taken a copy of it to add to the mass of evidence of in-
quiries received from British armed vessels. I am sir,
Your most obedient servant,
TIMOTHY PICKERING.
To Capt. William Coombs, President of the Marine Society, Newbury-
port, Massachusetts.
Teneriff, 22nd March, 1796.
Capt. William Coombs, President, and the Members of the Marine So-
ciety of Newburyport, Mass.
Gentlemen: — I have wrote you this epistle for the information of my
brethren of the society and all others whom it may concern, as a caution
to them to avoid erring as I have done. I chartered my ship to Mr. John
Soren of the house of Holiske and Soren of Boston for a voyage from
Harmon Hamburg, to Surinam, and back to Hamburg, and left the river
Elbe on the 5th of January last and on the 25th following, being in the
Latt. 44-1 N., Long. 18-13 W., and at 2 p. m., I saw a large ship in the S.
W. quarter apparently in distress and made immediately for her, and at
4 o'clock spoke her. She proved to be a British transport with troops on
board from Cork, bound to the West Indies, in very leaky and distressed
situation, both pumps constantly going, called the Isabella, belonging to
Liverpool, and commanded by a Charles Potter. Capt. Potter then came
on board my ship and informed me of his destination and desired I would
see him into Coruna or Lisbon. I told him my ship was chartered at a
very high freight and that it would ruin my voyage by going back to
either of those places, but that I was willing to see him safe to the West-
ern Islands, Maderia or the Canaries, and render him every other ser-
vice in my power, that I was willing to accommodate as many of the gen-
tleman officers as I conveniently could and land them in any of the afore-
said islands. With this, Potter seemed satisfied and said he believed it
would do, that he would send to the commodore of the troops for his ap-
probation, but in lieu of this he sent an information that I and vmy ship
were French, the cargo was French or Dutch property, and of course a
good and legal prize.
Receiving immediate assistance was soon supplied with an armed
party, who then drove Mr. Sorens, my supercargo, and my chief mate
with eight of my sailors into his boat at the point of the bayonet and sent
them on board the Isabella, prisoners. All this was done before Mr. Pot-
ter had seen a single scrip of my papers. My ship then being manned
from the Isabella, with an addition of fourteen soldiers, two officers and
doctor, (I think I was well guarded, don't you gentlemen?) On the next
day Mr. Potter thought it proper to inform me that the ship Enterprise
was his, and that he should after arriving off Lisbon (which we could not
fetch) would despatch us on for Barbadoes, for he was positive sure the
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 335
ship had double setts of papers, and the cargo French and Dutch prop-
erty. After examining all my papers, both private and public, taking from
me my invoice, bills of lading, shipping papers, Hamburg clearance and
several others, which he thought proper to keep from me, then went and
rummaged the hole, breaking open several cases and boxes, taking from
each what he thought proper and carried it off with him, and all this is
done in retaliation for my benevolence and hospitality, endeavoring to ren-
der every service in my power. This is certainly a very great warning
to me how I relieve another ship in distress. After our arrival here in
this port, Potter detained Mr. Soren and my chief mate two days, prison-
ers on board the Isabella, and also endeavored to detain me on board the
En'terprise until the British Consul (who was then at the Grand Cana-
ries) should arrive. Potter taking it upon himself to load the Enter-
prise with baggage and soldier's stores from his old ship Isabella, (which
is now condemned for only being rotten and in danger of sinking in this
road) and is determined to take us to Barbadoes and their condemned
ship and cargo, also taken every means to corrupt my sailors in order to
make them swear the ship is either Dutch or French property, no
matter which, and for which reason he has kept them on short allowance
of bread and water, and has kept my carpenter several days in irons. I
have had the pleasing satisfaction since our arrival here to be in com-
pany with every one of the British officers, who have declared not only
to me, but to most of the principal merchants in this place, that when
Potter boarded my ship he sent his boat back and demanded immediate as-
sistance as my ship and cargo was a lawful prize, when, as I said before,
he had not seen a scrip of my papers. I cannot say too much in praise of
the commander of the British troops and all his officers for their kind, po-
lite and genteel behavior to Mr. Soren and Mr. Harlow, my chief mate,
both of whom speak very highly of the civilities received from those gen-
tlemen during their stay on board the Isabella. Mr. Potter told Mr. Soren
that I was positively a Frenchman and the cargo was also French prop-
erty, that I was one of the greatest rascals on earth, and that he had suf-
ficient papers to hang me in England, (great encouragement for me to be
sure of saving the lives of 300 of his Britanick Majesty's subjects), at the
same time telling Mr. Soren that he did not think he could condemn the
property, only a part of the cheese as being Dutch. The ship Enterprise
is now destined to carry 150 of those troops with their stores, provisions
and water with a part of the Isabella's crew. I think we shall be very well
stowed with the cargo which was brought from Hamburg. Mr. Soren
quits me here and intends for England, by whom I shall send my protest
against Mr. Potter and his owners at Liverpool, and now gentlemen, I am
confident that if justice takes place on my arrival at Barbadoes, I shall be
acquitted with honor, being conscious of not having a single scrip of
paper nor anything else, except the cargo which was all taken on board
at Hamburg, that can lay any claim to our being anything more than what
I always profess to be, and you have always known me a true and law-
ful citizen of the United States of America, what ever be the decision of
the Court of Admiralty at Barbadoes. As soon as decided I propose to
336 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
proceed for England, and if they give me up my ship again, I will pro-
ceed immediately to Liverpool and there deliver her up to Mr. Potter's
owners as I have no power to act without Mr. Soren, and what is still
more aggravating, most of the cargo will be ruined. I will thank you to
make as much of this public as will be sufficient to warn all Americans
how they relieve a British vessel in distress. I shall write you from the
Barbadoes as soon as I know my fate. You will please to let Mrs. St.
Barbe see this letter, as I only write her a few lines. In hope of being
out of my difficulty in a few months, I remain, gentlemen of the Marine
Society, your brother and very humble servant,
WYATT ST. BARBE.
N. B. We expect to leave this place in three or four days at farthest.
Mr. Potter's owners of the Isabella are Messrs. Tarlton and Backhouse
Liverpool.
Barbadoes, Aug. 27, 1796.
Capt. William Coombs, President and Members of the Marine Society of
Newburyport:
Gentlemen: — I wrote you a letter from Teneriff, dated sometime about
the 25th of March last, giving you a just and true account of the proceed-
ings and treatment I met with from Charles Potter, commander of the Brit-
ish transport, called the Isabella (condemned at that island) from the
time of my being captured until the date of that letter, which I hope you
received, as I sent a duplicate by way of England.
On our arrival at this island, which was about the 16th of April, Pot-
ter told me I had run my rigs long enough and that I had noth-
ing now to do with either ship or cargo, that both was his property and
gave his officer particular orders not to suffer me to go on shore on any
pretence whatever. However, by the assistance of the British officers (who
are gentlemen in the true sense of the word) I got on shore in spite of all
Potter's malice, who declared the ship and cargo to be already condemned
as French and Dutch property and fourteen days before the libel was filed
in the Court of admiralty against the ship, during which time Potter did
his utmost to endeavor to get all my people impressed with the British
service, except two whom he had corrupted and concealed in the country
for his own evidence, and to deprive me of mine and on filing my claim in
the Court of Admiralty for the benefit of the owners of the ship and the
cargo. I really did expect to have had the whole condemned as I had not
a single acquaintance in this island that I could apply to for my security
for costs of court in case of condemnation, neither had sufficient money to
pay my law charges, when to my agreeable surprise, two gentlemen entire
strangers to me, by name Waldron and Evans, came forward and offered
and did give the security demanded by the court for costs in case of con-
demnation. I was then advised by my proctor and counsel to file a peti-
tion to oblige Potter to give security for the like sum (which was L500
sterling) in case the ship and cargo should not be condemned, as good and
lawful prize.
Fourteen days was allowed him to procure that security, which he
either would not or could not procure, but made his escape and run off.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 337
Of course the libel was thrown out of court and the ship was delivered up
to me and the remains of the cargo (for a great part of it was plundered
by Potter and his prize master), to be delivered to the martial, to be
sold and the net proceeds to be delivered to me for the benefit of those
concerned. I then thought my troubles at this island nearly at an end. I
was then advised by my proctor and counsel to file a petition for damages,
which I did, and then commenced putting the ship in repair again in order
to be ready to sail immediately after judgment was given, when to my
utmost surprise and mortification an old villain of a Prussian doctor, that
was passenger with me from Hamburg to Surinam, had got himself great-
ly in debt here, and in order to extricate himself and in hopes of getting
something handsome for his treachery, which he will be very much mis-
taken in, came forward in the court and declared that he always under-
stood the ship was French and the cargo Dutch property, upon which the
Advocate General filed a libel against the ship in behalf of Charles Potter,
which was immediately thrown out of court, whereupon the Advocate Gen-
eral immediately replied that as Charles Potter's commission did not ex-
tend to the making reprisals on Dutch property, that he himself would
file a libel in behalf of the King as a Droit of the Admiralty, and imme-
diately attached what property was ordered to be delivered to me by the
martial in the martial's hands, and insisted on my giving good security for
what I had already received, and even went so far as to say that I ought
to be imprisoned until I had given the security. But the judge would not
admit of no such thing as I had paid my former court charges and it was
impossible for them to be refunded, and thus I stand, not knowing how it
will end as nothing yet has been done. It is almost five weeks since I
had my sails unbent and taken on shore, and I hope and pray the Lord in
his infinite goodness will send the devil running a hunting with the Ad-
vocate General of this island, the King of Great Britain, and the whole of
the parliament and all their junts, and whenever I step aside to the assist-
ance of another British vessel in distress, I hope to sink along side of her,
and I sincerely wish and hope it may be the fate of every true American
that ever presumes to give assistance to any of the ships belonging to this
imperious nation. I am, gentlemen, your obedient servant and brother of
the Marine Society of Newburyport,
WYATT ST. BARBE.
CAPT. PETER LE BRETON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1784.
Died Feb. 24, 1813.
Clerk from Nov. 30, 181 5 to Nov. 29, 1827.
Capt. Le Breton commanded brig Peter and ship William
Johnson.
CAPT. JOHN O'BRIEN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1785.
Resigned Nov. 27, 181 7.
22-a
33^ RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Capt. O'Brien sailed from Newburyport June 9, 1779, in the
armed schooner Hibernia. On June 21st he captured an English
brig and sent her in. July 7 took an English schooner and sent
her to Newburyport. July 10 took a ship carrying thirteen four
pounders, the same day took a brig and a schooner loaded with
molasses and sent them to Newburyport. July 11 took a brig in
ballast and sent her in. He later attacked the British cruiser Gen-
eral Pattison, but after two hours battle, was compelled to with-
draw being somewhat shorthanded, having but sixty men, when he
left on June 9 and had taken three brigs, two schooners and one
ship in three weeks.
CAPT. BENJAMIN FELT KNAP,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1785.
Died at Martha's Vineyard April 28, 1803, aged 49 years.
Capt. Benjamin Felt Knap was the son of Nathaniel and Sarah
H. Knap. He was born in Newbury, Mass., March 23, 1754. In
1795 he was taken by an English frigate and robbed of $15,000..
$5,000 belonging to himself, and the remainder to his owners. In
1798 he commanded the ship John and Martha, owned by Capt.
John Wills and was destroyed by the French government. He died
at Martha's Vineyard on his passage home in the schooner Polly
from Havana.
CAPT. HENRY LUNT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1786.
Expelled Nov. 28, 1799.
Capt. Henry Lunt was with Capt. Eleazer Johnson in the pri-
vateer Dalton when she was captured by a British man of war and
confined in the Mill prison for over two years. He was subjected
to rigorous treatment on account of his twice attempting to es-
cape. On one of these efforts he received a severe wound in his
thigh in trying to force himself through the grating of the prison
sewer. Being caught, he was put into the "Black Hole," where
his wounds receiving no attention, the flesh mortified, and was
obliged to be cut away and the bone scraped. He was finally re-
leased through the intervention of Benjamin Franklin. He then
went to France and shipped as midshipman on board the "Bon
Homme Richard," under command of Paul Jones. After destroy-
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 339
ing many vessels, he arrived in Philadelphia in 1781. He then
joined the new ship Intreped as first lieutenant, fitted out by Na-
thaniel Tracy, and commanded by Moses Brown. On a voyage of
one year and a half he had one-half million dollars to her credit.
Mr. Lunt's prize money amounted to 4098 francs. Afterwards he
entered the employ of Tracy & Stocker in the merchant service
makng twenty-five voyages. He died in 1805, and his widow was
pensioned by the government.
CAPT. RICHARD TAPPAN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1787.
Disfranchised Aug. 29, 1816.
Capt. Tappan was master of the brig Olive Branch and brig
Vulture in the West India trade.
CAPT. EDMUND WINGATE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1787.
Resigned Oct. 27, 1791.
Capt. Wingate commanded schooners Hope, Tom, brigs Alex-
ander, Sally, Catherine, and ships Mary and Essex.
CAPT. ENOCH KNAP,
Joined the Marine Society Dec. 25, 1788.
Died in 1791.
Capt. Enoch Knap was in command of ship Dolphin when
confiscated by the British in 1794.
CAPT. CHARLES C. RABOTEAU,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 1 791.
Capt. Raboteau was in command of the ship Yorrick in 1807,
also brigs William and Henry. Nov. 19, 1808, was wrecked in the
ship Amsterdam on the coast of Holland.
CAPT. MICHAEL TITCOMB,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1791.
Died Jan. 21, 1821, aged 65 years.
34<> RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Capt. Michael Titcomb, born in 1750, who served for three
years in the commander-in-chief's guard, died in Newburyport,
Jan. 21, 1821.
Capt. Michael Titcomb was appointed by the town in 1776
to assist the selectmen in devising and preparing for attack and
defense. He was in command of brig Success.
From Newburyport Herald, Jan. 23, 182 1 :
OBITUARY NOTICE.
In this town on Sunday last, Capt. Michael Titcomb, aged 65
years. At the time of our Revolutionary struggle he entered the
service of his country and was selected as one of General Wash-
ington's body guard, in which service he had several narrow es-
capes. In 1798 he was appointed as first lieutenant on board the
United States ship Merrimack, built in this town. Since he left
the United States service he has been in the merchant service from
this port, to the full acceptance of his employers.
CAPT. SEWALL TOPPAN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1791.
Died Oct. 28, 1838, aged 75 years.
Treasurer from Nov. 28, 181 1 to Nov. 30, 1815.
Capt. Toppan commanded brigs Lucy, Betsy, Carthage, Snow.
America and Nancy. Aug. 9, 181 3 while on a trip from Boston to
Newburyport with a valuable cargo, he was chased into Squam by
the English privateer Dart, of five guns, a 4-pound shot having
been fired between her masts.
CAPT. BENJAMIN PEARSON INGALLS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1791.
CAPT. BENJAMIN WYATT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1792.
Died March 31, 185 1, aged 89 years.
Treasurer from Nov. 29, 1804 to Nov. 28, 181 1.
Capt. Wyatt was chosen by the town to consider its defenses,
in 1814. He was in command of brigs Olive Branch and Dove,
schooners Sally and Essex.
THE MAKDRK SOCXETT OP MWHItnOKT |||
CAPT. THOMAS GREEXLEAF,
Joined the Marine Society Not. 29, 1792.
l«st at sea Jan. 9, 1733.
Capt. Greenkaf was in command of brig Elizabeth Coates.
CAPT. THOMAS ADAMS,
Joined the Marine Society Nor. 29, 1792.
Lost at sea, 1795.
While in command of the schooner Fox in 1779 his vessel was
confiscated by the British. He also commanded the brigs Stork
and Nancy. April 7, 1795 at Port De Patx, he was fined 3000 fivres
for landing a cask of wine in his boat, which he had disposed of to
an individual on shore.
CAPT. JOHN BAGLEY,
Joined the Marine Society Not. 28 1793.
Disfranchised Nor. 26, 1705.
Capt. Bagley sailed in the employ of William Wyer in the
West Indies trade. We append an invoke Capt. Bagley carried to
a market in the West Indies in the schooner Regulator, with the
invoice cost:
33400 feet board plank and joist at $12
$39600
1 3-4 m hoops at $23
4375
100 shaken hhds.
=0 .V
40 molasses hhds.
4000
6 barrels mackerel at $10
Gi x>
45 kegs hating at 3 shillings
33-75
44 1-2 m shingles at 2 shillings
>: n
9 barrels N. E. rum, 203 gallons at 4 shillings, 6 pence
$219.75
24 barrels flour at $14
33600
54 hhds. codfish at $6
2758.50
22 hhds. scale fish at $4
-2 X
$409875
■vt
CAPT. NICHOLAS PIERCE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1793.
Died Dec 19, 1812, aged 50 years.
342 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Gapt. Pierce in January 1779, while in command of the
schooner Thankful was captured by a French privateer and carried
to Cayenne.
CAPT. ABRAHAM WHEELWRIGHT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1793.
Died Oct. 14, 1850, aged 93 years.
Secretary from Nov. 29, 1804 to Nov. 24, 1808.
Vice President from Nov. 24, 1814 to Nov. 25, 1824.
President from Nov. 25, 1824 to Nov. 26, 1829.
Capt. Wheelwright was born July 26, 1757. His life both as
sailor and soldier will be found in a narrative written by himself.
Abraham Wheelwright, born July 26, 1757, died Oct. 14, 1850, age
93 years. The account of his services and adventures as
soldier and sailor in the Revolutionary war, written by his
own hand when eighty years old, at Newburyport, Mass.
1775, sailed in brig Dolfin, Anthony Knapp, master, for Bar-
badoes.
1776, entered as a soldier for one year and served 13 1-2
months.
1777, sailed with Capt. Isaac Elwell in a sloop for Demerara.
1778, next voyage with Capt. Moses Hale, Martineco, was in
the October gale, when the French fleet was on this coast.
1779, sailed mate of a schooner, John Holms master, for
Guadaloupe, was taken bound home by a Liverpool letter of
marque, taken to Ireland — absent from home 11 months, arrived
at Philadelphia, on my return home entered on board a prize ship
Uriah commanded by Isaac G. Pearson, was captured by two Liv-
erpool letters of marque and taken to Antigua, treated well, en-
tered on board a Dragon at St. Eustatia 1777.
1780 came home in the brig Ruby, John Babson, sailed in brig
with Capt. Benjamin Wilber, 2 mate, sailed from St. Eustatia May
19, 1780. Dark day, sailed mate of the brig Marquis D. Leafutt,
Seth Thomas master, Guadaloups, returned safe in September
1780, was married and made a second voyage in the same brig and
returned safe.
Sailed mate of brig Cormorant, John Perkins, master, was
taken homeward bound and sent to Bermuda, sailed in brig Swan,
CAPT. ABRAHAM WHEELWRIGHT.
Loaned by Edwin Wheelwright of Boston.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 343
r, H. Goodhue master, was at Martineco when the English engaged
the French fleet near the straits and took the Ville de Harve.
- Sailed in brig Stork, Capt. E. Johnson to St. a Cruse, second voy-
age in brig Stork to the same island, was taken homeward bound
; and sent to Bermuda and sailed in brig Swan, B. Lunt master, ar-
, rived safe from Port au Prince 1783, after this went master and
part owner, first in brig Active for J. Marquand, then purchased
part of a vessel with J. Marquand. She was a small prize brig. I
went one voyage to Port au Prince in her.
(In the account of his services in the records of the pension
bureau at Washington, it is stated that he served about three years
in all on board the brig Spy, six guns, Capt. Lane.)
/ SOLDIER.
Narrative of the adventures of a sailor and soldier in the American
Revolution from January, 1776, to February, 177. Now in
my 80th year, the following is from recollection.
I joined the army on Winter Hill, January, 1776, in Com.
Israel Hutchinsons regiment, Cap't. Putnam's company, quartered
in the colleges when the British left Boston. In March entered
Boston over the Charlestown ferry, was stationed there for a short
time, but soon removed to Dorchester and assisted in fortifying
that place, was on cemetery and in plain sight of the engagement
between an American armed schooner lying at Walling Point, near
Deer Island, commanded by Capt. Mumford and a number of Brit-
ish barges from a fleet lying at Nantasket road. The latter was
compleately beat, one or more boats taken and many lives lost.
From thence the regiment marched to New London and embarked
to New York andwere stationed at the north end of that island, and
there commenced and compleated a strong fortifycation which was
named Fort Washington, from thence the remotion or a call for
more artillery men, I voluntered in an experdition for Long Island,
the British having landed a strong force on that island, soon they
brough the American army to action, which were defeated with
great loss which made a retreat necessary. Our commander took
the advantage of a thick fog and brought all the remains of his
army without being discovered by the enemy. Being now under
General Nox, I was on sentry in the ship yard waiting when a
venture frigate passed up the east river opposite S. Hook, after a
short time proceeded again to Fort Washington. The British took
possession of New York and proceeded up to Harlem, Aug. 27,
344 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
1776. General Putnam with a party from Fort Washington met
and defeated the enemy by driving them into their intrenchment
after a short contest there left them and returned to Fort Wash-
ington.
On being pressed by a superior force soon marched for White
Plains. Here the British overtooked and attacked the rear of our
army, but did not come to a general engagement here. General
Lee commanded. Fort Washington was strongly garrisoned but
was besieged and taken by the enemy. We proceeded to King's
Ferry and there crossed the N. river and proceeded from the
Delaware, but on our march, Lee was surprised (at a farm house
to which he went to pass the night) by a party of the British cav-
alary and taken to the enemy. The Am. army still proceeded
through snow, sleet and ice until you might track them in blood,
for many of the soldiers had no shoes to their feet. This division
of the army, however, notwithstanding they had been 30 days
without shelter, crossed the Delaware at Carttown, say 70 to 80
miles north of Philadelphia, passed through Bethlehem or Mora-
vian Town and marched on west side the Delaware to the ferry at
Trenton. Here we joined General Washington, been retreating
through the gorges before the British, here also a part of the
northern army joined the commander-in-chief. December, placed
20 pieces of artillery on the west bank of the Delaware near the di-
visions one above and one below the ferry. On Christmas eve
march, both destined to meet at one point and take by surprise a
Hessian regiment with five officers then stationed at Trenton. This
was accomplished by the upper division the other prevented by
the ice from gaining their point; 1100 Hessians were made prison-
ers and brought safe over the Delaware and marched back in the
country.
Here the years mens time expired, but the officers made an
effort to retain all they could for six weeks, until the new recruits
could be brought in. A plan was now concocted to get into the
rear of the enemy Jan. 1, 1777, or on the evening previous. The
British had approached as near Trenton as was prudent, made their
fires around the encampment. The Americans kindled fires along
the edge of a wood, sat a guard to keep them burning through the
night to deceive the enemy as they would naturally suppose it to
be our encampment, but not so. As soon as it grew dark, General
Washington marched with 2500 men and made a sweap round the
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 345
left flank of the enemy undiscoverd by them and at or rather be-
fore daylight halted just behind the cottages at Princetown just at
daylight. Firing commenced at Princetown and at Trenton. The
econtinentals at Trenton left their fires and retreated over the
bridge, cut it down as ordered. B force 11,000, 5,000.
At hearing by the firing that they had an enemy in their rear,
the British forced their army about and returned to Princetown
but they had lost their rear guard of 1 1 men. At daylight they met
us just behind the cottages into which they had retreated for
shelter, but with two brass peaces we soon drove them out and a
flank guard made them prisoners. In front of the cottages one of
our peaces was left on the field, having been so hot by firing, the
keys being jarred out she jumped from the carriage on the ground
and was left to the enemy but before night we had her again. On
our left the action was sharp, General Mercer and many others fell,
say 75. When the rear of our army left town the front of the Brit-
ish entered town, their loss, say 100. Unknown 200. The flight
of those that escaped was so hastened that wagons and clothing
were left in the street with the harness cut from them. Here I got
some plunder. The American army took a left hand road for Mor-
ristown, the British marched straight on for Brunswick, where each
army took up winter quarters. Some scurmergers by foreign
partys many were taken and brought in here. I was discharged in
Feb. 17, 1777, and returned home with Capt. Winthrop Sargent,
Gloucester, and Capt. Brown of Cambridge.
SAILOR.
In February, 1779, I entered as mate on board an armed
schooner commanded by John Holms of Ipswich and sayled for
Guadaloupe, arrived at St. Anns, discharged and loaded for New-
bury Port. On our way home near Bermuda, discovered a sail in
north east, the wind being light did not come very near to her.
neither had we any suspicion or any visit from her. We altered
our course at night to give her a good berth. She in the afternoon
man'd her boat with nine men intending to know who we were
and about 10 in the evening we discovered a boat near us. The
first impretion was it must be a boat in distress. On hailing we
had no answer. We were armed but no preparation being made
for defence. It being my watch on deck I first discovered the boat
and was prepared to give her a shot, but the captain from the first
impretion did not permit me to fire, but receiving no answer on
346 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
the second hale I fired a musket. The reply was fire and be dam'd.
They puled device under our bow, discharged a blunder-
bus and jumped on board. I think only four of our men were on
deck. Then we were given up without resistance and I received a
stroke on my head with a cutlass, the scar now visible, from the
first stroke, with the cry who are you ? answer from America ; this
with two more strokes at the same instant brought me to the deck,
was taken up and thrown down the gangway bleeding freely. At
this the captain stepped on the ladder and said for God's sake if
we are prisoners use us as such and discharged a pistol at his head,
which just took off the skin — both his and my wound was slight
The next morning we found ourselves along a Liverpool letter of
mark bound home. The wounded were dressed by their surgeon
and all settled and we proceed on in company for our destined
port, but contrary winds caused us to put into Cork haven, Ireland.
Here I concocted a plan to get away from our captors. I found
if I could get to Cork I might find my way homeward. To effect
this I communicated my wish to the prize master for I remained
in the prize. He rather favored my plan and I supposed mentioned
it to his captain. I found a turf boat bound to Cork and engaged
a passage for myself and five more. I had disposed of my quadrant
to the P master, but on reflection requested him to return it to me
as I might find it difercult to obtain another, for at this time
they were not easy to be had. I returnd him the price and he read-
ily gave it up. Ifound a turf boat. We soon left for Cork intend-
ing if the way was clear to take the poor Irishman to Usant in
France, but finally gave that up for two reasons ; one was two
elderly people had taken passage with us, one male and one fe-
male which would have been made prisoners by us. The other
was we did not judge the coast was clear for it was guarded by
small armed vessels for that purpose, so we arrived at the cove of
Cork the next day after we started. As soon as we anchored we
were hailed by a press gang to know if any men were on board,
the answer was no, for we had agreed to give the skipper five guin-
eas to save us from being prevented as far as was in his power. As
soon as it grew dark the skipper went on shore and found an officer
of a ship which wanted men and was to sail in the next fleet for
West Indies. He came in the eveneing with his boat for us. We de-
sired to take our chests, etc., with us, but were told they would
be safe and he would send for them in the morning, nothing of our
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 347
clothes and bedding was taken from us, our beds were filled with,
cotton wool. In the morning all were brought safe to us, but in
the evening when told to follow the officer up the side of the ship
I obeyed and when we arrived on the gang board he turned round.
I then said to him, Sir, we were looking for an honest Merchant-
man, but I find we have got a Kings ship of our money; the re-
ply she is a Kings ship, but nevertheless she is an honest Merchant-
man. She proved to be an armed recruiting ship of 700 tons, 20
guns, 120 men. Walk aft was the next request. When introduced
into the great cabin the articles for shipping were produced and
all requested to come forward and sign. To do this, being for-
eigners, but five of us declined when we found it would bind us for
a long voyage. I then came forward and told the officer that we
were Americans, had been taken by a Liverpool letter of marque
which he had left in Cork Haven with the intent to find passage to
the West Indies and we requested the privilege of working our
passage thither. That he said could not be granted, as the captain
was then at the city of Cork. I requested the liberty to wait until
I could see him. That he said he would grant, but we knew that
the captain could not consistently release us in the West Indies,
but we might wait and see him.
The next day a fleet of light ships arrived from N. York
The press gang boarded them and took what of them they chose
to man the outward bound fleet. One armed ship resisted, would
not suffer them to board, came to her anchorage and was furling
her sails, and ordered her to pull down her coulors. They boarded
and took all they couud catch, placed them with the others on
board a guard ship to man the convoy for the outer bound fleet
say 100 part, one-half to Quebeck and the other half for the West
Indies. All this time we were safe from the press gang, for the
Active was exempted from impressment.
The next morning Capt. English came on board from Cork
and the next morning after breakfast sent for the Americans, urged
us to sign his articles, promised good usage and hoped the un-
happy contest would soon be over. I wished it might but that was
uncertain. I told him as his ship was armed if we fell in with our
countrymen armed we must fight them, that I could not do vol-
untarily. Perhaps he said we might go to New York, and if peace
took place we should be at home. Further he said, I understand
you were mait of the vessel in which you were taken. I replyed I
348 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
was. Well, sir, I want a third mate, and the berth is at your ser-
vice. My reply was that I was young, had very little experience
in seamanship, and should by accepting his offer expose myself to
abuse. None of that sir. One thing more I have to say. If I ac-
cept the appointment you offer me you may send me on duty in
your boat, if so and if in my power at the hazard of my life I shall
attempt my escape. You are an honest fellow and no further at-
tempt was made to persuaid or force a complyance. We were
all entered by the clerk on the articles and our wages according to
our ability to perform the duty required and each had his station
allotted, mine on the forecastle, which when at sea brought me to
stear the ship in my turn in our watch. Here I was a grean hand
never having before placed at a wheel to stear, but still I ventured
to take the weather wheel, or to the weather side, for two men
were always kept at it with the officer of the watch watching by it
and cursing the ship, ordering the coars steared when the wind
was in our favor. Soon after the fleet got to sea the captain
wished to have a stay sail made from another sail, having under-
stood that I knew something of the business, he told me what he
wanted and then asked me if I could do it. I replied that I thought
I could. I undertook it and suited him so well that while at work
with an apis taut he sent each day a large mug of spirit and water
and ever after treated me more like a father than a stranger. After
passing the western islands the part of the fleet bound to Quebeck
separated from us and what remained, say 50 sail, steered to the
south west for the trade winds, and in moving down fell in with a
Spanish ship from the River plate, bound to Spain. War being
declared by Greate Briton against Spain just before the fleet sailed
the Spanyards would not know of it. Our ship ran alongside of her
and gave the unpleasant information and ordered her coulars
down. They obeyed and was immediately boarded. The boarding
boats even plundered many things of clothing from the officers
and passengers, some of which I afterwards purchased of them, as
some fine shirts and silk stockings. She was man'ed and sent
home. The fleet steared on for the island of Barbadoes and to
windward of that island before we saw land, fell in with a British
squadron cruising for the fleet. Here again was a hot press but
none taken from our ship. So providentially we were protected
from what we most dreaded a man of war. Soon we saw the land
and were in the harbour of Bridgtown. The town and ships in the
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 349
harbor that evening were eluminated. The occasion I have for-
got. Here while lying off and on I applied by the clerk to Capt.
English for liberty to go in a schooner then near to us bound to
St. Eustatia, but the reply was tell the lads to make themselves
easy, he was going down to Antege, which was much nearer to St.
Eustatia. Some days after we arrived and anchored in the outer
harbour. I applyed as before. The answer was tell the lads I am
not ready to settle with them, but as soon as I get paid for the
butter I have landed I will settle with them. Tell the lads that a
little money will be their best friend when they get to St. Eustatia.
As soon as the money was received our accounts were all
made out and the ballance paid and liberty given to me to go on
shore to seek a passage which I did. I found a gentleman who
had a vessel bound to St. Eustatia. I applyed to him for a pas-
sage for five Americans and asked him his price. The reply was
eight dollars each but could not concent to take more than three
for fear of having his vessel ran away with by them. I told them
if he had any such fears we would concent to go down in irons but
no he could not concent. I went directly to Capt. English, who
was on shore at a coffee hous and told what I had done and the
price demanded. He said to me go to the Gen'n and give my com-
plements to him and request him to come here. I did so, he came.
Capt. English told him what he wished him to do and asked him
pence to you for provisions. I will furnish what is necessary. He
replyed $8. Half that sir I think enough for they shall be no ex-
pence to you for provisions. I will furnish what is necessary. He
concented. While on shore I visited my countrymen (that had
been taken) in the Gaol. I then went on board the vessel in which
we ware to go to see the captain and saw him, found when he ex-
pected to get under way but here we had to decide who should go.
I proposed to decide by lot, we did so, it fell to myne to remain
behind. To this the others objected saying I must go. I told them
that the owner would not concent to our all going for fear we
should take the vessel. I then asked him if he had any such fear.
He replyed no, not if there ware twice as many. Well, sir, will you
concent if I can get on board after you get under way ? Will you
concent to take the seven? He concented. We repaired to the
ship and took what things belong to those who ware selected by
lot, (then got permission of the captain as above) returned to the
Active, told the Mate that we had all agreed to go together, our
350 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
things and provision being put into the boat. The Capt. said to
me as he was going from long side, well you have got the gauntlet
to run again, but I wish you safe home to your friends. Here we
parted, but my heart has been ever with this noble Scotchman.
Soon the vessel was under way came out Cr. arangement, loofed
(under) the stern of the Active we shoved off (with two men to re-
turn to the bot) and ware soon under the hatches for then we had
to pass a 64 man of war lying without us and ware liable to a visit
from him, which we fortunately escaped and proceeded on to St.
Eustatia without molestation. Here we found but three American
vessels, one for Salem, Capt. Ingersoll, one for Baltimore, and one
tor Philadelphia, Capt. Joseph Waters of Salem. The latter re-
quested me after remaining on shore some days to go with him to
Philadelphia on wages. I told him if I could take a young man
what I could nott leave behind I would go. To this he consented,
thow he was not wanted. I sent some things hime by Capt. Inger-
soll, who declined taking me, having no room. The others went to
Baltimore and got home before me after an absence of 1 1 months.
I arrived safe in Philadelphia, received my wages, was taken
to the mate's house without charge untill I could find a passage
home which I soon found for Boston, to sail in two or three weeks.
Capt. Waters found that the schooner in which I was to take
would not go emeately. Invited to take lodgings with him I
did so, and when he left by land for home he left his chest, quad-
rant, etc., with me to take home, but he took care to pay my board
as long as he thought I might stay after him. This I found when
I asked for my bill. The schooner on board of which I took pas-
sage sailed for Boston ladend with bread stores, and bar iron -for
the board of war. On our way between the Capes of Delaware
and the Vineyard we fell in with two stout ship under English
coulars which soon came within hale. We were all prepared to go
to N. York, but to our great joy when they boarded the schooner
we found they were tow privateers from Salem. We soon pressed
on and arrived safe in Old Town harbor in Martha's Vineyard,
took a pilot and started for our destination on a fine clear night,
but before daylight we were run plump on a shole called Hors
Shoe. At daylight we found our situation, our boat was maned to
go to Old Town for assistance but had not reached more than half
way before the wind blew so strong from the N. W. that we
couldn't sure make any head way and our boat was leaky. In this
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 35 1
situation we seen tow whale boats well manned coming out from
land, we soon spoke the head mate of them who offered to take
us intow for the land. This offer we declined and urged them to
go to the schooner which they did. We made for the other boat
and was glad to be taken in tow by her, but had to let our leaky
boat go and make the best of our way for the shore which we
found it hard to gain, but having landed and procured some re-
freshments at the furst house we came to hailed the whale boat
achost the beach into a lagoon and hastened to Old Town for as-
sistance, found a sloop in a light set of ballast which we engaged
to go to the schooner, got a good crew of fresh men, took double
reefs in the sails and started for the schooner. Before we had got
fairly outside the harbor a squall struck her and came near upset-
ting her, but the man at helm seeing it coming put to the helm and
she came before the wind got her in trim and stood in from
whence we came. It continued to blow and increased to a gale
that night, what we almost dispaired seeing any more of the vessel
or those we left behind. In the morning we got in more ballust
and started again for the schooner, soon discovered her masts
standing which gave us fresh courage to proceed on, but soon we
discover the Whail boat from her, the one we passed the day be-
fore, with all the crew and passengers. We took them into the
sloop and landed them on the Island much frost bitten for the
spray that flew froze on them. The sloop proceaded, but I landed
with the rest and with them sought repose. The sloop came near
to the schooner but we could not bord her that night, but went to
Hianis, the nearest harbor. The next day being more moderate
we went alongside and took out a load from her. Two deck boats
went also from Old Town and farther lighted the schooner then
they hove her off and got her into Old Town half full of water.
Before this I have been only a passenger, but one of the crew get-
ting sick of his voyage gave me what wages he had due to take
his place. The Capt. accepted of me and sent me to Boston with
a letter to the Board of war for instructions. This was in Decem-
ber 1779. It was so extreme cold but no snow on the ground. I
delivered my letter and was desired to call the next day for an
answer, which I did. They gave me a letter to a gentleman in
Cape Cod which I delivered and the next day started with him for
the Vineyard, returned my horse and with the gentleman crossed
the sound, repaired to the vessel, commenced getting the iron
352 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
from the schooners hatch by getting a small boat into the hole and
graphling up the iron, everything being striped from her and
landed and all ac. settled by the agent, we started for Boston.
Crossed the sound with Capt. Lothrop and the crew landed at Fal-
mouth, traveled in the afternoon in a gentle fall of snow (for before
this we had no snow on the ground) as far as Sandwich con-
tinewing to snow, falling very fast for three days and nights. This
detained us at Sandwich. When the weather cleared off we all
made for Sandwich beach to avoid the snow, then four feet deep on
a level. Judge what the traveling must be, no road or track ex-
cept through some settlement. We proceeded slowly on taking
turns to go ahead, paying little or no regard to the main road. We
reached Boston in six days, found that we were entirely blocked
up. No market men had as yet visited the town, fresh provisions
were not to be had. I met a friend who knew directly, enquired
where from and was I in want of any assistance. I replyed not.
He says come to my hous for breakfast in the morning and I will
get you a hors to take you home. A member of the General Cort
had one at board on the other side of the ferry. I accepted his
kind offer and he got me an order for the hors, and I started, but
found it very difficult to get along with him the drifts of snow were
so deep, got to the tavern in Lin, there found a number collected
together striving to get through, some with shovels to level the
drifts for as we proceaded we found it more and more drifted. A
party of us determined to drive through and get to Salem that
night. Here I found my friend that left me in Philadelphia. I
found also my leter that I had written to my mother with money
in it and a bundle of articles sent from St. Eustatia by Capt. Inger-
soll's mate. My friend's things were left with mine at the Vine-
yard to be sent to Boston by the opportunity. I left after spending
the night with my friend and started for home, got to Hamilton
and the next day got home to my friends after an absence of
months.
[RECORDS OF PENSION BUREAU, WASHINGTON, D. C.]
ABRAHAM WHEELWRIGHT.
He was born 1757, in Gloucester, Essex County, Mass., where
he continued to reside until he moved to Newburyport, Mass., at
or near the close of the Revolutionary war (1783) in which latter
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 353
place he was living when he applied for a pension in September,
1832.
He enlisted at Gloucester, Cape Ann, in the latter part of
December, 1775, for one year, which was extended six weeks
longer, at the request of his officer, as the new recruits had not ar-
rived. Under Capt. Enoch Putnam, in the Massachusetts regiment
commanded by Col. Israel Hitchcock, marched to Winter Hill for
the siege of Boston, Mass. ; then afterwards stationed at Dor-
chester. After the British had evacuated the city (March 17, 1776)
he was ordered to march to Norwich, Conn., to embark on board
of vessel for New York City, in which vicinity he was employed
in building Fort Washington. Then in July or August, the British
having occupied Staten Island and preparation to land on Long
Island was made, and he volunteered to join Capt. Foster's com-
pany of Artillery in the Massachusetts Regiment, commanded by
the Col. (but soon afterward made General) Knox and ordered
into New York City, where he remained until the city was occu-
pied by the enemy, when he retreated with the army from Fort
Washington to Harlem Heights, where he was in engagement
(Sept. 16, 1776), and continued in the retreat toWhite Plains, West
Chester County, N. Y., where a battle occurred (Oct. 28, 1776).
In consequence of important information communicated by a
deserter, Fort Washington was captured with all the garrison
(Nov. 16, 1776), which compelled the evacuation of Fort Lee on
the opposite shore of the Hudson river (Nov. 18, 1776), and he ac-
companied the army in its retreat through New Jersey to and
crossing the Delaware river into Pennsylvania. Preparation was
soon made to recross the river to surprise the enemy occupying
Trenton, N. J., and he was one of the force which crossed the
Delaware in the night amid the floating ice, facing a driving storm
of snow, sleet, and captured over 900. Hessians in the early morn-
ing of Dec. 26, 1776. He was also in the successful attack on
Princeton, N. J., Jan. 3, 1777. He then made cruise at sea as first
officer on board of several vessels commissioned as letters of
marque, among which was a schooner commanded by Capt.
Holmes in 1779; then in 1780 he served 31-2 months on board brig
De La Fayette, six guns, Capt. Seth Thomas, which sailed in com-
pany with another armed ship, Capt. Nicholas Johnson, belonging
to the same private owner, during which voyage they had a "small
engagement" with a British armed vessel which escaped. In the
23— a
354 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
same armed vessel he made another cruise of 4 months, and also on
board the brig Stork, Capt. Johnson. During this last voyage the
vessel was captured and he was carried prisoner to Bermuda
Island. He made a cruise on the brig Swan, 4 guns, Capt Good-
hue, and he served about 3 years in all on board the brig Spy, 6
guns, Capt. Lane. Dates and details of his voyage at sea are
omitted except what he has given above, nor did he give any par-
ticulars of what occurred while a prisoner or when released or ex-
changed.
On July, 1775, on a voyage from N. P. to Barbadoes in brig
Dolphin, discharged in Barbadoes and loaded for Newfoundland.
On voyage to Newfoundland, off Halifax, spoke a vessel that
informed us of the battle of Lexington (first news of war). Pro-
ceeded to St. John's in Newfoundland, thence to Machias and took
a load of lumber, then left the vessel and came to N. P. (war ex-
pected, not surprised, felt attached to the country.)
January, 1776, Winter Hill, near Cambridge, drilled, exer-
cised. Tents on top of the hill, surrounded by a fort of turf, 10 feet
bottom, 6 feet top, 7 feet high, seritinals placed on top of the fort,
each man walked about 4 rods, guards relieved every 4 hours, sen-
tinels placed in hailing distance. Each man that passes first gives
an account of himself, a watch word ; call him into stand, if he starts
fire upon him. A trench on the outside of the fort 5 feet deep, 7
feet wide ; embrasure 2 feet inside, 8 feet outside ; cannons stand
on a platform 30 feet apart. Pickets stuck in the ground about 30
feet from the trench and fort, 3 feet high, 4 feet wide. Fort cov-
ered a quarter of an acre; about 13,000 men scattered in Boston,
Dorchester, Cambridge, etc. ; great object to fortify the region to
drive enemy out of Boston. Stayed about a month and went down
and made entrenchment at Lechnerz's Point with Gen. Putnam
to annoy the enemy at Boston. Saw the enemy walking on the
Common, exercising, etc. In cold weather encamped in the Col-
leges at Cambridge till March. While here shells were thrown
frequently from Boston. This month British evacuated the city,
when we marched from Cambridge to Charlestown and encamped
over night, the town having been burned, and for want of a better
took shelter in a baker's oven. Soldiers laying all around, some
in houses and some in the open air. Marched into Boston next day
and were quartered in a meeting house. Most had fled, some re-
mained, city not burned, plundered and left a great deal of mo-
CAPT. OFFIN BOARDMAN.
Reproduced from "Old Newbury."
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 355
lasses, sugar, tea. No wood to be found. After quartered on the
wharf. Stayed in Boston three weeks, then were ordered to Dor-
chester to fortify the place to prevent the enemy's landing.
(Engagement on other paper). Remained in Dorchester until
May, employed all the time in fortifying, until British left- Nantas-
ket Roads for New York. Then nearly all the fortifications aban-
doned because the whole force marched to New York. Three bar-
rels of sand prepared to roll down upon the enemy if they came
up the hill. Then marched to Norwich, Conn., (marches, night
camps in houses or tents, guards before). Rested at Norwich, re-
freshed and then to New London and embarked then for New
York in transports (any kind of vessels) about three days on the
voyage, landed in the city and immediately marched to the east
end of the island, and there built a strong fort called Fort Wash-
ington and got it completed in June. At this time British land on
Long Island. I went as a volunteer and was stationed at Brook-
lyn. While there the enemy fired upon us. Musket balls came
thick upon us. (Refer to history for the account of the engage-
ment at Long Island. History of American Revolution, Wash-
ington's life, etc., etc. History for engagement at Harlem.) Salt
very scarce, sold for $7 a pint. (Anecdote).
Crossed North river in flat bottomed boats, built rough and
light (at White Plains 10). Object of going to Philadelphia to
prevent British from going to Philadelphia.
(Anecdote of tumbling on the people in the house).
CAPT. OFFIN BOARDMAN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1793.
Died in August, 181 1, aged 64 years.
On Jan. 20, 1776, Capt. Boardman, seeing a vessel off New-
bury bar who evidently was in need of a pilot, took sixteen men
in a whale boat and went to her assistance. He found her to be
the British ship Friends, bound from London to Boston with a
valuable cargo of provisions for the British army. He immedi-
ately went on board as a pilot, and while in conversation with the
commander of the ship, his boat's crew went on board and ranged
themselves together, when Capt. Boardman informed the British
commander that the ship was his prize and ordered him to surren-
der, which the commander decided to do. The English colors were
356 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
hauled down and she was taken in to the wharf and her valuable
cargo, within six hours of starting the venture and not a man in-
jured.
Capt. Boardman was captured on one of his voyages and con-
fined in Mill Prison in 1776 and 1779, when he escaped to France.
Sept. 2, 1807, he built the ship Edward Prebble.
CAPT. JOHN HOLLAND,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1793.
Died at Boston, Jan. 8, 1796.
Capt. Holland, while in command of the sloop Port Packet,
was boarded by a Spanish privateer, who robbed him of a part of
his cargo. He was also in command of brigs Margaret, Sally and
Columbia, schooners Friend and May, sloop Mary and ship James.
He died in Boston, Jan. 8, 1796. His remains were brought to
Newburyport and he was buried by the Marine Society, attended
by a large number of our citizens. The flags of the shipping in
the harbor and about the town were displayed at half mast.
CAPT. BENIAH TITCOMB,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1794.
Died Oct. 8, 1804.
CAPT. ISRAEL YOUNG.
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1794.
Resigned Aug. 29, 1816.
Vice President Nov. 27, 1806 to Nov. 26, 1807.
Capt. Young, while in command of the ship Hibernia on his
passage from Naples, was captured by a French privateer and
taken to Algiers.
Capt. Young, with Capt. Nicholas Johnson and Capt. William
Farris, were chosen a committee to locate the court house now at
the head of Green street, Oct. 2, 1814.
CAPT. WILLIAM PICKETT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1794.
Died in Boston, Dec. 22, 1822.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 357
Capt. Pickett, while in command of the brig Alexander on the
passage from Naples to Boston, was captured by an English frig-
ate and carried to Malta. He also commanded the ship William.
CAPT. JOHN MARCH,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1794.
Died Feb. 17, 1818.
CAPT. MICAJAH INGALLS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 2.7, 1794.
Died at sea, Jan. 20, 1796.
Capt. Ingalls commanded the schooner Joanna.
CAPT. SAMUEL CHANDLER,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1795.
CAPT. JOSEPH NOYES, 4th,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1795.
Lost at sea, 1796.
Capt. Noyes commanded the sloop Nancy.
CAPT. EBENEZER CHOATE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1795.
Died at Guadaloupe, Nov. 2, 1801.
Capt. Choate was in command of brig Sally.
CAPT. DANIEL FARLEY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1795.
Resigned Feb. 28, 1805.
Capt. Farley was quite unfortunate as master of the schooner
Hope. His vessel was confiscated by the British ship David
Green, captured by English cruisers, carried to St. Jago, Cuba, and
vessel sold. Schooner Sally was taken three days out from An-
tigua and carried to St. Martins, Oct. 26, 1797. He was also in
command of brigs Tyzer, Peggy, schooners Malvina and Argus.
23— b
35^ RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
CAPT. STEPHEN HOLLAND,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1795.
Died at Bangor, October, 1842.
Capt. Holland was in command of brigs Four Sisters and Co-
lumbia, and ship Rising Empire.
CAPT. JONATHAN MOULTON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1795.
Died Feb. 25, 1807.
Capt. Moulton commanded the brig Mary and ship James.
CAPT. JOSEPH H. WOODMAN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1796.
Lost at sea, January, 1804.
Capt. Woodman commanded the brig Lively.
CAPT. PAUL STEVENS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1796.
Died Dec. 16, 1797.
CAPT. FRIEND DOLE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1796.
Died Oct. 27, 1801.
May 29, 1800, at Newburyport, arrived brig Dove, Capt.
Friend Dole ; sailed from St. Thomas May 8, in company with the
brig Swan of Newburyport, Capt. Lunt. May 10th, in Lat. 29.20.
Long. 66.40, was brought to by a- French privateer of six guns
who came on board, made search, took what money they could find
and a number of other articles, putting four men on board be-
longing to the schooner Neptune, Capt. Bushner, of Philadelphia,
which they had captured the day before, and sent to Porto Rico.
After leaving us they gave chase to other vessels in sight, Capt.
Lunt being in sight astern. On May 14th,, Lat. 27.0, Long. 67.45,
we were again boarded by the same privateer and plundered of
ten packages of woolen goods, one case of linen, one bag of cof-
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT
359
fee, five cases of soap, and other articles. Capt. Dole also com-
manded the brig Emily and schooner Hannah. Capt. Friend Dole
was killed by the fall of a spar on board the ship Ocean.
CAPT. JOHN WILEY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1796.
Died November, 1800.
CAPT. EDMUND KIMBALL,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1796.
Died Dec. 6, 1847, aged 85 years.
Capt. Kimball commanded the brigs Speedwell, Polly and
Betsey.
CAPT. JONATHAN YOUNG,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1796.
Lost at sea, March, 1803.
Capt. Young commanded the brigs Sally and Elizabeth
CAPT. GEORGE JENKINS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1789.
Died July 5, 183 1, aged 57 years.
Capt. Jenkins was master of the schooner Neutrality.
CAPT. SAMUEL ROLFE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1798.
Died Nov. 10, 1832, aged 67 years.
Capt. Rolfe commanded the brig Edward.
CAPT. ELEAZER JOHNSON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1798.
Died March 7, 1847, aged 74 years, 1 month.
Secretary from Nov. 30, 1809 to Nov. 28, 181 1.
Treasurer from Nov. 25, 1825 to Nov. 29, 1827.
Vice President from Nov. 29, 1827 to Nov. 26, 1829.
President from Nov. 26, 1829 to Nov. 24, 1842.
360 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Dec. 24, 1776, Capt. Johnson, while master of the brigantine
Dalton, was captured and carried into Plymouth. The crew of 124
men were confined in the Mill Prison ; 54 of the number belonged
to Newbury and Newburyport, among whom were Captains An-
thony Knap, Henry Lunt and Offin Boardman. Sept. 9, 1799,
Capt. Johnson arrived into Newburyport in the schooner Dolphin,
11 days from Savannah. Capt. Johnson was bound from Havana
to New Orleans, and when off the mouth of the Mississippi he
was captured by a British privateer brig, who took out all hands
except Capt. Johnson and his boy and put on board a privateer
master and five men and ordered the vessel to Jamaica. Soon
after Capt. Johnson represented the shortness of water and pro-
visions and three of the prize crew went ashore at one of the Keyes
for a supply. During their absence, Capt. Johnson and the boy
secured the rest of the prize crew and made their escape.
CAPT. EBENEZER HOYT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1798.
Died Nov. 30, 1808, aged 41 years.
CAPT. JONATHAN DALTON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1799.
Died at sea, Aug. 8, 1802.
Capt. Dalton, while in command of the brig Margaret, was
confiscated by the British. Capt. Dalton arrived into Newbury-
port Jan. 13, 1799, master of brig Atlantic, 78 days from Hamburg,
repored Dec. It, 1798, Mr. Richard Pierce, mate, and William
Eady were washed overboard and lost.
CAPT. WILLIAM THOMAS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1800.
Disfranchised Dec. 9, 1819.
CAPT. ABEL LUNT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1800.
Died in Senegal, in 1807.
Capt. Lunt commanded the brigs Union and William.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 36 1
CAPT. JACOB STONE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1801.
Died Jan. 23, 183 1, aged 66 years.
Secretary from Nov. 30, 181 5 to Nov. 25, 1825.
Vice President from Nov. 25, 1825 to Nov. 29, 1827.
Capt. Stone made the first entry in the Newburyport Custom
House, with a cargo from the East Indies in the brig Industry,
March, 1805.
Sept. 9, 1814, he was chosen among others to consider the
defense of the town.
CAPT. JOHN S. HODGE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1801.
Lost at sea, January, 1804, aged 28 years.
CAPT. SAMUEL CHASE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1801.
Died Sept. 13, 1813, aged 47 years.
Capt. Moses Brown, in a letter to Mr. Willam , Bartlet, bear-
ing date of Aug. 20, 1799, writes: "I suppose you have heard of
the fate of your ship Rosa, but perhaps not the particulars. Capt.
Samuel Chase behaved with the greatest bravery and conduct, but
at last was overpowered and boarded. The Rosa was taken, the
beginning of the present month (August), by the privateer "La
Egypt Conquise," and after a brave defense of one hour and a
half, was obliged to submit to superior force, the mate and two
men being killed and Capt. Chase and 15 others wounded. The
privateer was hulled very dangerously before Capt. Chase was
wounded. This ship and cargo was one of the most valuable that
ever sailed out of Newburyport for the West Indies." Capt. Chase
also commanded brigs Commerce, Diligence, Betsy, Minerva,
schooner Peggy and ship Hercules. Capt. Samuel Chase was a
member of St. Peter's Lodge of Masons, and they with the Marine
Society attended his funeral from his residence on Harris street,
Sept. 14, 1813.
CAPT. WILLIAM ORNE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1802.
Died Nov. 8, 1803.
$62 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Capt. Orne commanded brigs Hannah, Hiram, Minerva, Me-
hitable, and schooner Two Friends and sloop Nancy.
CAPT. ISAAC STONE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1802.
Died Nov. 23, 1839, aged 71 years.
Secretary from Nov. 28, 181 1 to Nov. 30, 181 5.
Capt. Stone in command of ship America, was taken by a
Danish privateer Aug. 16, 1809, and carried into Christiansand,
Norway. He was elected as representative to the general court in
1814.
CAPT. JOSEPH LUNT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1802.
Disfranchised Nov. 24, 1803.
CAPT. JAMES MYER,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1802.
Died Dec. 15, 1830, aged 61 years.
CAPT. BENJAMIN PIERCE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1802.
Disfranchised Nov. 30, 1826.
CAPT. PETER LE BRETON, JR.,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1803.
Died March 5, 1829, aged 50 years.
Secretary from Nov. 30, 181 5 to Nov. 29, 1827.
Capt. Le Breton was awarded L8382 6 shillings for the loss
of the ship Betsey in 1803.
CAPT. JONATHAN TITCOMB, JR.,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1803.
Died Sept. 11, 1807, aged 38 years.
Capt. Titcomb died at Marseilles of yellow fever. His funeral
was attended by all American shipmasters and mates lying in port.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 363
CAPT. MOSES BROWN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1804.
Lost at sea, 1819, aged 35 years.
Capt. Moses Brown was the son of Moses Brown, commander
of the naval ship Merrimack, and like his father experienced some
of the hardships endured by our early ship masters. Capt. Brown
when in command of the schooner Venda was captured by the
English privateer Wolferine and taken to Halifax, Nov. 13, 181 3.
CAPT. CHARLES HODGE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1804.
Died Dec. 27, 1855, aged JJ years.
Secretary from Nov. 29, 1832 to Nov. 30, 1842.
Capt. Hodge sailed for Amsterdam in the brig Unity and was
captured by a French privateer Nov. 20, 1807. During another
voyage, he was chased by four French privateers, but succeeded in
eluding them.
CAPT. JOHN N. CUSHING,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1804.
Died Jan. 5, 1849, aged 69 years.
Capt. Cushing, while in command of the brig Polly, was cap-
tured by the British and taken into the harbor of Cape Francois,
an armed guard placed on board, the crew sent ashore and the ves-
sel confiscated. In 181 1 while in command of ship Hesper on a
voyage from Russia, loaded with hemp and iron for Newburyport,
was captured by a British privateer. His vessel and cargo was
valued at $78,000 and was owned by William Bartlet, and con-
demned by the high court at Copenhagen. While in command of
brig Minerva from Virginia to France, he was taken by the Brit-
ish frigate La Isabella and sent to England.
Capt. John Newmarch Cushing was born in Salisbury, May 8,
1779, his parents being in very moderate circumstances; his edu-
cation was confined to the common school of Salisbury. At the
age of 11 he commenced his sea life, and at the age of 21 took
charge of the ship Hesper, 303 tons, built at Amesbury, of which
he was part owner. In 1814 having retired from the sea, he built
364 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
the brig Hesper of 187 tons. In 181 5 he built the schooner Suc-
cess of 75 tons, in 1823 the brig Rapid of 223 tons, Mr. Nicholas
Johnson, Jr., being part owner. His sea trade extended to Rus-
sia, Holland and other north of Europe countries. In 1828 he
built the brig Cyarina, 218 tons, 1830 brig Pocahontas, 1832 brig
Palos, 227 tons, the same year he built the brig James Caskie, 283
tons, 1833, brig Carthage, 296 tons, and brig Ark of 298 tons, 1834
brig Corinth, 414 tons, 1837 brig Pallas, 102 tons, 1840 brig Essex,
273 tons, 1841 brig Athens, 300 tons, brig Massachusetts, 308 tons,
and the brig Chenamus, 202 tons, 1842 brig James Gray, 300
tons, 1844 brig" Salisbury, 296 tons, 1845 brig Keying, 300
tons. In connection with the large number of vessels built by
Capt. Cushing, it might be interesting to name those built and
owned by his son, Mr. John N. Cushing, who, although not a
member of the Marine Society, inherited his father's business
and built the brig Hesper in 1851, 392 tons, 1853 ship John N.
Cushing of 633 tons, 1854 ship Sonora, 708 tons, 1855 ship Law-
rence Brown, 795 tons, the same year he built ship Lyra, 812 tons,
1857 ship Elizabeth Cushing, 888 tons, 1864 ship Elcano, 1210 tons,
1869 ship Whittier, 1295 tons, 1872 ship Nearchus, 1288 tons, 1883
ship Mary L. Cushing, 1658 tons. The two men adding in 69
years 29 vessels and 14,634 tons to the commerce of Newbury-
port.
CAPT. JOSEPH BROWN, 3rd.
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1804.
Died at Bangor, Oct. 10, 1845, aged 71.
Secretary from Nov. 29, 1827 to Nov. 29, 1832.
Capt. Brown was born Nov. 17, 1774, was a midshipman in
the Merrimack in 1799, was in command of the brig Experiment in
1807. In 1812, while in command of the brig Washington, his ves-
sel was seized by the Danish authorities at Copenhagen, and after
examination he was released by the following decree: "April 15,
1812, brig Washington, Joseph Brown, and her cargo are cleared
by the High Court at Copenhagen, the vessel having been proved
to the satisfaction of the court to have been American."
"Decree, the ship Washington, together with her cargo are
hereby restored, yet so, that Capt. Joseph Brown shall pay to
Privateer Capt. Rome as a compensation for the expenses
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NKWBURYPORT 365
caused to the latter for bringing in said vessel two thousand Rix
dollars, Danish currency, and pay the court charges."
Capt. Brown writes his whole expense will be 2000 Spanish
dollars. After retiring from the sea he became master of the
school at the east end of the Mall. As a schoolmaster, one of his
methods of punishment was to place the tongue of boys who lied,
swore or used other bad language in a cleft stick, which he kept
soaking in a bottle of pepper sauce on his desk.
CAPT. THOMAS MORRISON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1805.
Died May 8, 185 1, aged 80 years.
Capt. Morrison was in command of the brig Elizabeth in
181 7, 1 818, 1819, 1820, 1 82 1, sailing between Newburyport and the
West Indies.
CAPT. JEREMIAH YOUNG,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1805.
Died April 18, 1844, aged 74 years.
Boston, July 16, 1812, arrived Mr. Yaulding, mate of Brig
Start, Capt. Jeremiah Young, who reported that the brig was cap-
tured by the British brig Plumber, Capt. Young and the crew
taken out, a prize crew put on board and the brig ordered to Hali-
fax.
CAPT. ISAAC ADAMS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1806.
Disfranchised 1839.
Feb. 13, 1813, Capt. Adams in command of ship Ocean from
Richmond for Lisbon, was captured by the French privateer brig
Diligent and ordered to France, recaptured by the British frigate
Survillante, 38 guns. Arriving at Plymouth, England, Capt. Adams
and crew except three men were taken on board the French pri-
vateer and carried to France. Capt. Adams was elected represen-
tative to the General Court in June, 1814.
CAPT. JOSEPH SEVIER,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1806.
Died Nov. 14, 1813.
366 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
CAPT. JAMES FRANCIS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1806.
Expelled Dec. 14, 1820.
CAPT. MOSES GOODRICH,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1807.
Died Nov. 29, 1843, aged yy years.
Capt. Goodrich was in command of ship Newburyport and
ship Merrimack.
CAPT. NATHANIEL FLETCHER,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1807.
Capt. Fletcher was in command of ship Arrow, was cap-
tured and carried into France in 1812.
CAPT. SAMUEL FOSTER,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1807.
Died at sea, 1810.
CAPT. JOHN ELLIOT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1807.
Capt. Elliot commanded the ship Edward.
CAPT. DAVID LUFKIN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1807.
Died on the coast of Africa, 181 7, aged 51 years.
Dec. 5, 1813, Capt. Lufkin, five days from Georgetown, loaded
with rice, was captured by the British frigate Romulus, 64 guns,
and sent to Bermuda.
CAPT. CALEB LUFKIN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1807.
Expelled Nov. 29, 1821.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 367
CAPT. ISAAC RAND.
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1807.
Died at Andover, July 14, 1818, aged 34 years.
CAPT. JOSEPH TYLER,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1807.
Died July 12, 1814, aged 42 years.
CAPT. DAVID STICKNEY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1807.
Died Nov. 9, 1820.
Capt. Stickney commanded ships Minerva, Fortune, New-
buryport. July 24, 181 2, Capt. David Stickney arrived home, late
of ship Fortune ; was taken by the frigate Belvidere on Georges
Bank in 25 fathoms of water, a prize crew put on board and taken
to Halifax.
CAPT. PAUL SIMPSON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1807.
Died Feb. 11, 1854, aged 80 years.
Treasurer from Nov. 26, 1829 to Nov. 24, 1831.
Vice President from Nov. 24, 183 1 to Nov. 30, 1837.
CAPT. THOMAS M. FOLLANSBEE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1807.
Died Jan. 9, 182 1.
Jan. 8, 1799, Capt. Follansbee while in command of ship Two
Sisters, five days out from St. Bartholomew, was captured by a
French privateer. Capt. Follansbee was taken out and the ship
sent, he knows not where, and that day fell in with a cartel bound
to Cape Francois, and Capt. Follansbee was transferred to her.
CAPT. JOSEPH PATCH,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1807.
Died Aug. 31, 1857, aged 88 years.
368 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Capt. Patch was in command of the brig Joseph, lost near
Taxel, Feb. 16, 1818. Crew saved.
CAPT. JOHN DENNY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1808.
Died 1817, aged 41 years.
CAPT. DANIEL STONE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1808.
Died Oct. 12, 1833, aged 63 years.
CAPT. SAMUEL HUNT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1810.
Died at sea, 181 1.
CAPT. JOHN DOLE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 10, 1810.
Died at sea, Sept. 12, 1821, aged 55 years.
Capt. Dole was born in 1766, made many voyages to Russia
and retired early in life, but through misfortune in his investments,
he sailed again in the employ of Ropes & Co., of Salem, and was
lost on his voyage home from Russia.
CAPT. ROBERT FOLLANSBEE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1810.
Died Aug. 30, 1831, aged 61 years.
CAPT. JOSEPH BRAGDON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1810.
Died May 7, 1832, aged 66 years.
CAPT. GREEN JOHNSON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 181 1.
Died Aug. 5, 1817.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 369
Capt. Johnson while in command of the ship Abigail was
captured by an English privateer, May 28, 1807, and carried into
Malta and there condemned.
CAPT. WILLIAM NICHOLS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 181 1.
Died Feb. 12, 1863, aged 81 years, 7 months, 11 days.
Vice President from Nov. 24, 1842 to Nov. 26, 1846.
[FROM NEWBURYPORT HERALD, FEBRUARY IO, 1815.]
Capt. William Nichols was born in 1781. He was just old
enough to go to sea as a boy when the aggressions upon our
rights and property led to resistance upon the ocean twice before
he was twenty years old. He was captured by the French and
several times in boyhood he participated in naval warfare. First
he was taken in the ship Fox in 1798, when he was but 17 years
old, next in 1799 in the ship Rose owned by Mr. William Bart-
let. This was a valuable ship; with her cargo she was valued at
$100,000. They fought a French privateer one hour and a half.
The mate who conducted the battle was a brave man and refused
to yield until he was literally cut to pieces, several of the crew
were killed or wounded, but young Nichols unhurt, was carried
to Guadaloupe from whence he escaped. In 181 1 before the war
was declared, he was placed in command of the brig Alert and ran
the English blockade at Bordeau with a cargo of brandy, wines
and silks, but the next day he was captured by an English frigate
which took all his men but the mate and two boys and put a prize
crew on board, the vessel being ordered to Plymouth, England.
The same day he was taken, he retook the vessel by his own in-
dividual efforts, surprising the watch on deck, the officers in the
cabin, and the sailors in the forecastle. Having secured the offi-
cers and men he put most of them into a boat with means for
reaching the coast of France and left them to their fate. A week
afterward he was again captured by the British frigate Vestal. He
attempted to escape her by saying that he had already been
boarded and examined by the Semiramis, the ship which had pre-
viously taken him, but the Englishmen were not to be put off and
the vessel was taken to Portsmouth and he was put on board a
prison ship. From the prison ship, Capt. Nichols was sent ashore
for examination, but before the court opened he escaped his guard
24-a
37° RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
and went to London. There he was met in the streets by the offi-
cer, who was sent up to London from Plymouth in pursuit of him.
He handed the officer 3 guineas, telling him : "You can take these
but never me alive." The officer took the hint and at once Capt.
Nichols was on his way to Liverpool, whence he came to Boston
in a ship, a fellow passenger with the infamous Aaron Burr, under
the assumed name of Adolphus R. Arnot. Immediately the war
followed, and Capt. Nichols was put in command of the fast sail-
ing privateer Decatur; which sailed from Newburyport, Aug. 4,
1812, carrying 14 guns and 150 men, chiefly belonging to New-
buryport and Marblehead. The Decatur had been at sea but four
days when she was chased by a frigate ; the wind blowing very
hard she lost some of her spars and was forced to throw overboard
most of her guns to lighten ship. The vessel proved to be the
Constitution, Commander Hull and to him Capt. Nichols gave such
information as led to the capture of the Guerriere. For a time the
cruise was unsuccessful, and in the disabled state of his vessel and
without guns the crew mutinied and refused to do duty and it was
only by personal combat with the leader, who was not subjected
till Capt. Nichols had felled him to the deck, that disorder was
suppressed, but the wheel of fortune soon turned, however, and
the next few weeks he abounded in prizes. On Aug. 22nd he cap-
tured the barque Duke of Savoy, the 23rd the brig Ponoma, the
25th the brig Elizabeth, the 26th the brigs Concord,, Hope and
Devonshire, the 30th the barque William & Charlotte, carrying 4
guns, Sept. 1st the ship Diana of 10 guns and a cargo valued at
$400,000. On the same day cut off the brig Fame from a fleet un-
der convoy. The prizes had taken most of his men, when on the
6th of September he fell in with the ship Commerce with 14 guns
and 57 men and 30 passengers. He sent a boat on board which
was taken with its crew, when he had but 20 men left and ten of
them were required to guard his prisoners, among whom were
five British officers, still he bravely pushed alongside the enemy
of 400 tons and attempted to board her, the rough sea alone pre-
venting and the fight was continued for three-quarters of an hour,
Capt. Nichols serving his own guns and directing his own vessel in
this engagement ; in order to disconcert his enemy, shooting four
men at the wheel one after the other as fast as they took the
wheel ; a final broadside disabled the ship and wounded the cap-
tain, who soon after died and she surrendered. The Decatur did
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 37 1
not lose a man, but so small was his force that he was obliged to
keep his prisoners in irons to prevent their rising. In a cruise of
50 days in which the Decatur sailed to the English channel, he
took nine prizes and landed 54 prisoners, besides liberating others
in vessel used for that purpose. The Decatur made a second
cruise in which she took several prizes and at last was herself taken
by the frigate Surprise of 38 guns. The enemy lost in killed and
wounded several men as did the Decatur. The shot of the enemy
was so effective, that it is said that not one whole plank remained
in the quarter-deck, where Capt. Nichols stood. He was taken to
Bordeau, where the commander of the Vestal then in port, from
whom Capt. Nichols had escaped, and whose prize crew he had
set adrift in a boat, had him arrested. Capt. Nichols had become
a terror to the enemy, and lest he should again escape, they con-
fined him in a wooden cage 5 feet by 7 feet, where they kept him
chained for 34 days like a Hon, allowing not a person to converse
with him during the whole time. The English threatened to hang
him, but our government held two English officers as hostages,
and he was not injured, though he was kept as a criminal, sen-
tenced to death. Capt. Nichols was soon exchanged, when he re-
turned to Boston and in six weeks was again at sea in the brig
Harpey, belonging to Baltimore, in which he took ten prizes, one
of 20 guns and one of 10 guns. From her he landed property to
the value of $300,000 and 65 prisoners, several of them officers, and
one a major general. During the war he captured 28 prizes,
tnough more than one-third of his time he was in prison. He was
called the "Holy Terror." After the war, Capt. Nichols followed
the sea for a few years and then engaged in business as a mer-
chant, highly esteemed by his friends and respected by all. He
was frequently elected to town offices. He was appointed as col-
lector of Customs by President Polk, serving four years. Capt.
Nichols, although with a rough exterior as master of a privateer,
was of tender sensibilities, always exhibiting the greatest affection
for his mother and his family.
From the vessels Capt. Nichols took a large amount of mer-
chandise, described as follows : One hundred and eighteen boxes
and trunks, 116 hogsheads and casks of dry goods, jewelry, plate,
women's silk dresses, navy trimmings, fine clothing, etc., 330 boxes
of fresh Malaga raisins, 66 frails Turkey figs, 158 pieces of British
manufactured goods, 29 bolts of canvas, a quantity of cordage, ten
372 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
pipes of sherry wine, 3 barrels of gunpowder, cannonades, musk-
ets, pistols, cutlasses, sails, signal flags, lamps, paint oil, white
and patent sheet lead, nautical instruments, cut glass, medicines,
and upward of 100,000 pounds sterling in British treasury notes
ana bills of exchange.
CAPT. WILLIAM BARTLET,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1816.
Died Dec. 28, 1852, aged 70 years.
Capt. Bartlet was in command of brig Arrow. The New-
buryport bank was chartered May 8, 1803, and Capt. William
Bartlet was its first president. In 183 1 the name was changed to
Merchants bank and among the incorporators we find the names
of Capt. William Bartlet, Capt. John N. Cushing, Capt. Amos
Noyes, Capt. Samuel Nichols, Capt. Eleazer Johnson, Capt. John
Wills. Capt. John Wills was elected president and Capt. Samuel
Mulliken cashier, all members of the Marine Society.
CAPT. SAMUEL NICHOLS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1816.
Died Oct. 4, 1869, aged 86 years.
Capt. Nichols while in command of brig Enos in 181 3, was
captured and taken to England. He was also in command of the
ship Abbie M., and ship Caravan.
CAPT. JOHN T. ROSS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1816.
Died at St. Louis, Oct. 31, 1848, aged 74 years.
CAPT. WILLIAM H. MITCHELL,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1816.
Expelled Nov. 28, 1822.
CAPT. GEORGE CAMPBELL,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1817.
Died Sept. 24, 1828, aged 45 years.
Capt. Campbell was master of brigs Ann, Packet and schooner
John.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 373
CAPT. WILLIAM GRAVES,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 181 7.
Died May 27, 1851, aged 66 years.
Capt. Graves commanded brig Abigail, ship Thomas Perkins,
Guinare, Eliza Dennison, Bark Cynthia. While in command of
bark Cynthia in Canton, he hoisted the first Bethel flag in a for-
eign port.
CAPT. CHARLES DAVENPORT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1817.
Expelled Nov. 26, 1818.
Capt. Davenport died at sea, master of schooner Sarah,
March 22, 1821.
CAPT. WILLIAM WILLIAMS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1819.
Died Sept. 2, 1841, aged 75 years.
CAPT. JOHN WILLS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1819.
Died Jan. 12, 1835, aged 50 years.
Capt. John Wills, son of Capt. John and Martha Smith Wills,
was born in Newburyport, Dec. 18, 1784. While in command of
the brig Leader in 1812, on a voyage from Boston for Bordeau, he
was captured by the British frigate Andromache and sent to Eng-
land. Capt. Wills was one of the most prominent shipmasters and
merchants in Newburyport, being one of the founders of the Mer-
chants bank and became its first president in 183 1. Was first
president of the Ocean bank in 1833, and also one of the founders
of the Salisbury Woolen Mills in 1823, said to be the first incorpo-
rated woolen mill in Massachusetts. Capt. Wills, with other of
our merchants, built a large number of vessels between 1824 and
1833 ; among them was the schooners Hoogley, 72 tons, in 1824,
Actor, 103 tons, in 1824, ship Golconda, 359 tons, in 1825, brig
Paris, 270 tons, in 1830, brig Angila, 137 tons in 1831 ship Surat,
346 tons, in 1833.
24-b
374 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
CAPT. CHARLES COOK,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1818.
Died April 1, 1824, aged 48 years.
Capt. Charles Cook commanded the brig Syrene. Oct. 18,
1816, sailed from Newburyport for New Orleans. July 29, 1818,
sailed for the East Indies from Newburyport in the same vessel.
Was at Mocha, Jan. 22, 1819, with three other American vessels.
when a privateer vessel from the Gulf of Persia appeared and the
Governor of Mocha called upon the masters of the American ves-
sels to defend the town, but the fort was not strong enough and
the pirates came in and took two vessels belonging to the town,
one of which was valued at $100,000, and were towing them out of
the harbor, when the Americans opened fire upon them, each ves-
sel having a few guns. They sank one of the prizes and captured the
other, and the pirate vessel was captured in a sinking condition.
The pirate vessel mounted 22 guns and 150 men, all of whom were
shackled together with irons and marched into town and delivered
by the Americans to the Governor. Before this the Americans
were treated with disdain and contempt and had dirt thrown upon
them as they passed in the streets, but since were treated with
great civility and respect.
CAPT. ABEL JOHNSON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1819.
Died at Cape Henry, Hayti, 1826, aged 33 years.
CAPT. ALEXANDER LIVINGSTON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1819.
Died Aug. 27, 1826, aged 43 years.
'Capt. Livingston commanded schooners Lydia, Peace and
Plenty, Ames.
CAPT. RICHARD PICKETT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1819.
Died Jan. 1, 1847, aged 59 years.
Capt. Pickett while in command of the brig Alexander, Aug.
31, 1812, was captured by the sloop or war Curlew and ordered to
England. He also was master of the ship Caravan and brig An-
gola.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 375
CAPT. DAVID HASKELL,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1819.
Died April 17, 1857, aged 81 years, 5 months.
CAPT. JOHN H. TITCOMB,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1820.
Died June 14, 1854, aged 65 years, 10 months.
Capt. Titcomb commanded brig Scia and ship Parachute.
CAPT. DENNIS CONDRY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1821.
Died at Somerville, Nov. 26, 1876, aged 82 years.
Capt. Condry commanded many vessels ; among them we find
ships Russell, Epomands, Potomac, Kasso, Florida, Moses Daven-
port, Merrimack, Delia Walker and others. He was appointed
lieutenant commander in the U. S. Navy Oct. 5, 1861.
CAPT. HECTOR COFFIN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1822.
Died Jan. 5, 1846, aged 63 years.
Capt. Coffin commanded the brig Huntress, ship Ontario, and
ship Franklin.
CAPT. JOSEPH P. RUSSELL,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1824.
Died April 26, 1852, aged 83 years.
Capt. Russell was master of ship Sarah.
CAPT. MARK SYMONDS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1825.
Died Jan. 4, 1876, aged 76 years.
Treasurer from Nov. 26, 1846 to Nov. 27, 1862.
Capt. Symonds commanded brigs George, Leo, ship Iliad,
Golconda and Yaide. Capt. Symonds was one of the founders of
37^ RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
the James steam mills, January, 1842, also one of the founders of
the Globe mills 1845. He was a member of the city council in
1852, 1863, school committee in 1851, 1852, r853.
CAPT. ABEL COFFIN,
Joined the Marine Society, Nov. 24, 1825.
Died at St. Helena, in 1837, aged 45 years.
Capt. Coffin commanded brig Elizabeth, ships Telegraph,
Rebecca Coffin, Monsoon, Gentoo and Sachem. Arriving into
Boston, Aug. 16, 1829, he had as passengers the famous Siamese
Twins, from Tringana, Siam. The twins resided at Capt. Coffin's
residence on Washington street ; the wives of the twins were
mulatoes and twin sisters. They died at Greensborough, N. C,
in 1874, aged 63.
CAPT. WILLIAM TITCOMB,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1826.
Died Aug. 1, 1844, aged 52 years.
Capt. William Titcomb commanded brigs Atlas, Liberty and
Leader.
CAPT. ZEBULON TITCOMB,
j • Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1826.
Died Nov. 12, 1850, aged 62 years.
CAPT. CALEB W. NORRIS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1827.
Died at Canton, Dec. 13, 1833, aged 41 years.
Capt. Norris commanded brig Crusader, ships Merrimack,.
Charles Carroll, Golgonda and Potomac.
CAPT. THOMAS A. SMITH,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1827.
Died Dec. 10, 185 1, aged 56 years.
Capt. Smith commanded the brig Pocahontas and brig Mars.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 377
CAPT. NATHANIEL S. OSGOOD,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1829.
Died May 2, 1881, aged 80 years.
Secretary from Nov. 30, 1848 to Nov. 28, 1867.
Vice President from Nov. 30, 1876 to Nov. 29, 1877.
President from Nov. 29, 1877 to Nov. 27, 1879.
Capt. Osgood was born April 23, 1801. His first voyage to
sea was as supercargo of the brig Herod, John Wills, master,
bound to Calcutta ; next on the ship Potomac, Caleb Norris
master, making 13 voyages to Batavia and Ceylon. He made three
voyages carrying provisions in the Greek war covering two years
each. He gave up his sea life in 1844 and was appointed to a sit-
uation in the Custom House at Newburyport and was always
greatly interested in the Marine Society and always worked for its
interest.
CAPT. AMOS NOYES,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1830.
Died at San Francisco'' Oct. 19, 1878, aged 79 years.
Capt. Noyes commanded brig Arcturus and ship Henry.
CAPT. JOHN C. HARDY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1830.
Lost at sea, Jan. 25, 1845.
Capt. Hardy commanded schooner Harkarin, which was lost
at Key West, Nov. 25, 1833 ; also brig Souther from which vessel
he was washed overboard and drowned, Jan. 25, 1845.
CAPT. MICAJAH LUNT, JR.,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1830.
Died Jan. 8, 1874, aged 77 years, 8 months.
Vice President from Nov. 30, 1837 to Nov. 24, 1842.
President from' Nov. 24, 1842 to Nov. 27, 1862.
Capt. Micajah Lunt, Jr., was born in 1796. In 1813, when but
17 years old, he shipped on board the Argus, Capt. Parsons, the
378 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
first letter of marque from Newburyport in the war of 1812, which
took three prizes. Capt. Lunt was on board the brig Essex, com-
manded by Capt. William Nichols, when she captured the British
letter of marque "Carrisbrook Castle" of 16 guns, a prize of great
value. At the age of 19 he took command of the brig Olive, 157
tons and made his first voyage as master to Nantz, France. After
retiring from the sea he entered into the mercantile business. He
was president of the Bartlet Steam Mills for a quarter of a cen-
tury, for 20 years president of the Merchants bank, and for some
10 years president of the Institution for Savings. In 1848 he was
treasurer of the fund for the relief of the Irish sufferers ; the
churches and people united and $2002.07 was raised and food and
clothing sent to them.
CAPT. GEORGE LUNT, JR.,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1830.
Died Sept. 4, 1879, aged 74 years, 6 months.
Treasurer from Nov. 28, 1867 to Nov. 29, 1877.
Vice President from Nov. 29, 1877 to Nov. 28, 1817.
Capt. Lunt commanded many fine ships, among which we find
ships Josiah L. Hale, Fanchon, (which was burned at sea Dec. 2.7,
1850), Franchise, Thalia, Gulnare, Franconia, Fredonia, George
West, Winona, Blondel, Inez, George Griswold. A public recep-
tion was tendered Capt. Lunt upon his arrival into Liverpool, Feb.
16, 1863, in the ship George Griswold with food for the distressed
Irish. Speeches were made by members of the House of Lords
and Commons and by the President of the Chamber of Commerce,
praising the generosity of the American people. In replying to the
many kind words said to him, Capt. Lunt expressed the wish that
this proof of mutual good feeling might strengthen the tie that
binds both England and America together. Upon leaving Capt.
Lunt was presented with an elegant telescope.
CAPT. BENJAMIN PIERCE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1830.
Died Aug. 29, i860, aged 67 years, 10 months.
Capt. Pierce commanded the brig Dove in 1820, brig Syrene
in 1822, 1823. In 1844 he commanded Ship Hannah Sprague and
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 379
while at anchor outside the bar discharging salt from Cadiz, the
ship began to drag her anchors on account of the heavy sea. On
Monday, Oct. 28, 1844, she was obliged to cut away her masts to
prevent her going ashore on Plum Island.
CAPT. GILES P. STONE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 183 1.
Died April 29, 1876, aged 77 years, 9 months.
Treasurer from Nov. 28, 1839 to Nov. 26, 1846.
Vice President from Nov. 26, 1846 to Nov. 27, 1862.
President from Nov. 27, 1862 to his death, April 29, 1876.
Capt. Stone was born Sept. 19, 1798. His first voyage was
taken when he was 18 years old. Became master of the brig Leo
when he was 21. Feb. 24, 1823, while lying in the harbor at Porto
Rico, he was boarded by prirates who tied the captain's and mates'
hands behind their backs and threatened to kill them if they did
not give up their money, breaking open the trunks and taking
$700. They then went forward and wounded two of the crew, who
made so much noise that the pirates fled, taking with money all the
captain's and mates' clothing. Capt. Stone's last voyage was in
the ship Alciope in 1836 to St. Petersburg, where he attended the
festival celebrated in honor of the birthday of the empress. His
grandfather, Capt. Jonathan Persons, was the first president of
the Marine Society.
CAPT. ANTHONY KNAPP, JR.,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1831.
Died Sept. 6, 1879, aged 80 years, 11 months.
Capt. Knapp was born in Newburyport, Sept. 27, 1798. He
first went to sea at the age of 13. In July 1812 he joined the pri-
vateer brig Decatur, then fitting out for sea at Newburyport as a
seaman, but his father objected as he was not quite 14 years of
age. The Decatur sailed away without him, but Anthony knowing
that the brig was to touch at Salem, Mass., stole from home in
the night and walked all the way to Salem and rejoined the De-
catur there and went to sea in her. They were very successful and
captured many prizes. The first one was the bark Duke of Savoy,
380 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
then brig Elizabeth, armed brig Thomas, brig Devonshire, brig
Concord, brig Hope, armed brig William and Charlotte, armed
ship Diana, armed brig Fame and ship Commerce, carrying 14, 9
and 6 pounders. Then the Decatur sailed for home and arrived at
Newburyport Sept. 23, 1812. When not quite 21 years of age, An-
thony was mate of a brig lying at Martinique, W. I. The captain
dying there, Anthony brought the vessel home to Boston in the
middle of winter and received a handsome present from the own-
ers ; was made captain the next voyage. When master of the brig
Two Brothers of Newburyport, he was taken by pirates on the
south side of San Domingo, Dec. 1, 1822. He was bound from
San Domingo to Jacqumel. Captain and crew were set adrift in
a boat. They coasted along the shore and arrived at Jacqumel
Dec. 28 1822. The pirates sank their own vessel and retained
the Two Brothers and used her as a pirate brig. Capt. Knapp had
$3000 in cash when captured, as he was to purchase a cargo at
Jacqumel. When the pirates ordered them into the boat (his
brother Sam being mate) Capt. Knapp tossed an old pair of boots
into the boat, saying : "Here, Sam, is an old pair of boots, you may
need them." In these boots were concealed the $3000 which the
pirates did not get.
CAPT. JEREMIAH P. WOOD,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1832.
Died in Boston, September 1837, aged 35 years.
CAPT. JOHN COFFIN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1832.
Died April, 1845.
Capt. Coffin commanded the ship Franklin.
CAPT. EDMUND PIKE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1832.
Died Oct. 9, 1875, aged 82 years.
Capt. Pike commanded ships Amity, Medora, Thomas Per-
kins, Stirling, Inez, Merrimack and Fanchon.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 38 1
CAPT. DAVID STICKNEY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1832.
Died at New Orleans, Jan. 5, 1849, aged 50 years.
Capt. Stickney commanded brigs Nikolai, Oak and brig Ark.
CAPT. WILLIAM A. CHENEY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1832.
Died Aug. 17, 1876, aged 79 years, 1 month.
Capt. Cheney was in command of schooner Mayflower, brigs
Fame and Jubilee.
CAPT. SAMUEL BOARDMAN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1832.
Died June 2, 1857, aged 86 .years.
CAPT. FRANCIS B. TODD,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1833.
Died at Havana May 7, 1841, aged 35 years.
Capt. Todd was master of ships Allioth and Emerald.
CAPT. BENJAMIN BARBER,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1833.
Died at Mayaguez, P. R., June 9, 1834, aged 54 years.
Capt. Barber was master of schooners Farmer, Caleb, Gov-
ernor, Susan, Arethusa, Essex, Mary C. Ames, brigs Sally and
Montserat.
CAPT. JOHN N. WILLS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1833.
Died March 9, 1854, aged 44 years, 9 months.
Capt. Wills was master of ships Rolla and Agawam.
CAPT. GEORGE COFFIN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1833.
Died at Boston, March, 1867.
38a RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Capt. Coffin was master of a number of ships; among them
we find Aristotle, Flavio, Republic, Franklin, Amazon, President,
Alhambra, Oregon, Shawmut, Carolus, Magnus, Ocean Queen.
• i
CAPT. ISAAC S. COFFIN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1833.
Died at New Orleans, Jan. 24, 1855, aged 56 years.
Capt. Coffin was master of the ships Science, Xylon and Co-
lumbia. Durng his sea life he never called upon the underwriters
in any way.
CAPT. CHARLES TYNG,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1834.
Died at Providence, R. L, June 20, 1879, aged 78 years.
Capt. Tyng was master of the ship Bashaw.
CAPT. SAMUEL M. JOHNSON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1834.
Died at sea, Sept. 5, 1835, aged 36 years.
Capt. Johnson was master of ship Plutarch.
CAPT. BENJAMIN PERKINS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1834.
Died May 23, 1835, aged 37 years.
CAPT. CHARLES BUNTIN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1834.
Expelled Aug. 27, 1835.
Capt. Buntin was master of the ship Spartan.
CAPT. NATHANIEL NOWELL,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1834.
Died at San Francisco, July 27, 185 1, aged 53 years, 6 months.
Capt. Nowell was master of ship Navy and Henry.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 383
CAPT. FRANCIS D. HARDY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1834.
Died in Cambridge, October 1884, aged 80 years.
Capt. Hardy commanded the schooner Mayflower, brigs Scio,
Salamus and Argyle.
CAPT. SAMUEL BUTMAN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1835.
Died at sea, Sept. 25, 1838, aged 37 years.
Capt. Butman was master of brigs America and Otter.
CAPT. WILLIAM LE CRAW,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1835.
Died Sept. 26, 1865, aged 69 years, 9 months.
Capt. Le Craw commanded many vessels. Among them we
find ships Copia, Palmyra, Brutus, Advance, Copal, Gen. Har-
rison, Concord, Cuba, Fair Trader, Monterey, Delia Walker and
East Indian. Capt. Le Craw and other ship masters spent their
leisure hours around the stove in Davenport's store at the head
of Ferry wharf.
CAPT. WILLIAM PLUMMER,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1836.
Died April 10, 1845, aged 41 years.
Capt. Plummer commanded ships Germany, Tacitus, Arbur-
ton and bark Argosa.
CAPT. ENOCH GERRISH,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1836.
Died April 10, 1851, aged 64 years, 2 months, 15 days.
Capt. Gerrish commanded the brig Syrene of Newburyport,
cleared for New Orleans March 3, 1824, sailed for Rio de Janeiro
left Rio for Boston, June 12, 1825, put into Portsmouth, N. H.,
Aug. 12, 1825, 61 days from Rio. August 2, experienced a severe
gale which split the forsail and while laying to under bare poles,
was struck by a heavy sea on the starboard quarter which threw
384 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
the brig on her beam ends, carried away sails, waist and quarter
boards, shifted ballast and stove her water casks. She righted by
cutting away her main mast which took with it her fore-topmast,
trysail boom and gaft, having three and a half feet of water in her
hold.
CAPT. JEREMIAH N. JAQUES,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1836.
Died July 30, 1849, aged 50 years.
Capt. Jaques commanded ships Angelo, Vesper, Inez, and
bark Wessacumcon.
CAPT. WILLIAM GRAVES, JR.,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30. 1837.
Died Sept. 1, 1877, aged 66 years, 5 months.
Treasurer from Nov. 27, 1862 to Nov. 28, 1867.
Vice President from Nov. 28, 1867 to Nov. 30, 1876.
President from Nov. 30, 1876, to his death, Sept. 1, 1877.
Capt. Graves was born in 181 1. He became master of a ship
in early life, having command of bark Cynthia, ships Leodese,
Angelo, Thomas Perkins. For many years he was treasurer of
the Bartlet Mills. In 1866 he was elected mayor of the city of
Newburyport; alderman 1854 to 1858, and in 1863; school com-
mitee, 1851, 1852.
CAPT. ROBERT H. PEARSON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1838.
Died in Shanghai, April 15, 1854, aged 46 years.
Capt. Pearson commanded barks Vixon, Byron, Rose Stand-
ish, Paris, ships Golgonda and Nes,torian.
CAPT. WILLIAM H. HUNT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1838.
Died Sept. 13, 1847, aged 45 years.
Capt. Hunt commanded bark Apollo and ship Vesper.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 385
CAPT. AMBROSE H. WHITE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1838.
Died at Boston, June 3, 1881, aged 80 years.
Capt. White was born in Marblehead, Dec. 17, 1800, and com-
menced his sea life at the age of 13. At the age of 21 he was
supercargo. At age of 23 he was master and continued for 30
consecutive years, 12 years of which was in Batavia and China
trade. In 1824 he took up his residence in Newburyport and be-
came a Calcutta merchant until near his death, a man of sterling
integrity and very religious. Capt. White commanded ships Vir-
ginia, Potomac, Ashtabula, Argonaut, Ashburton, Alciope, Fran-
chise and Moses Brown.
CAPT. ISAAC G. TAPPAN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1838.
Died Sept. 17, 1840, aged 34 years.
Capt. Tappan was master of brig Carthage.
CAPT. ISAAC A. BRAY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1839.
Died April 16, 1870, aged 60 years.
Capt. Bray was born in Newburyport in 1810, and command-
ed the brigs Mary, Caravan, ships Leonore, Inez, Franchise. In
1846 he left the sea, moved to Portland, Maine, and went into
business with his brother-in-law. After a few years he returned to
Newburyport, took command of the ship Bengal owned by J. J.
Knapp and others and, accompanied by his wife, made voyages to
Russia, and in the early days of the gold discovery to San Fran-
cisco. Not long after he was wrecked at St. Michaels, Western
Islands. Soon after the ship Merrimack, of which he was part
owner, was built by John Currier. While superintending the con-
struction of this ship, Capt. Bray contracted a severe cold, of
which during his life he was a great sufferer, it having resulted in
rheumatism. He made many voyages afterwards ; was in Calcutta
at the time of the Sepoy rebellion. Among other Newburyport
shipmasters in Calcutta at that time was Capt. George Lunt and
family, Capt. Edward Graves. At this time there was great excite-
25-a
386 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
ment among the Europeans fearing an insurrection by the native
population. At the hotel which was kept by James S. Tappan, a
native of Newburyport, preparation was made for defence in case
of attack. Arms of all kinds were kept in abundance in the rooms,
loaded and ready for use, a constant watch kept day and night, all
taking turns, but the disturbance passed over, no uprising taking
place. This was Capt. Bray's last voyage. He retired from the
sea and was a member of the school committee in 1862, 1863, 1864.
CAPT. HENRY SHOOF,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1839.
Died April 4, 1881, aged 78 years, 9 months.
Capt. Shoof commanded brig Rapid, bark Sirabo, ships Fla-
vio, Medora, Ocean Queen, Black Hawk, Glendower, Jacob Per-
kins and Parthenia.
CAPT. TIMOTHY YOUNG,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1842.
Lost at sea.
Capt. Young commanded ship Plymouth, brigs James Caskie,
Salisbury, Creole, John Caskie and ship Huguenot.
CAPT. DANIEL KNIGHT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1843.
Died at Danvers, Feb. 2, 1883, aged 76 years, 4 months.
Capt. Knight commanded barks Sagamore, Oberlin, ships
Masconomo, Navigator, Spartan (lost at Nassau, Nov. 22, 1840),
ship Ariadne.
CAPT. STEPHEN P. BRAY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1843.
Died June 10, 1883, aged 71 years.
Treasurer from Nov. 29, 1877 to Nov. 28, 1878.
Vice President from Nov. 28, 1878 to Nov. 2J, 1879.
President from Nov. 27, 1879, until his death, June 10, 1883.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURVPORT 387
Capt. Bray was in command of ships Edward, Inez, Winona,
Persia, Medora and Volant. He was always greatly interested in
the affairs of the Marine Society and was highly respected by all
his associates.
CAPT. FREDERICK W. CARTER,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1843.
Died at Bordeaux, Oct. 6, 1871, aged 59 years.
Capt. Carter commanded ships Whampoa, Switzerland and
Aristides.
CAPT. THOMAS C. SIMPSON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1843.
Died Feb. 18, 1881, aged 61 years, 6 months.
Vice President from Nov. 27, 1879, till his death, Feb. 18, 1881.
Capt. Simpson commanded the ship Saladin. During the lat-
ter part of his life, for many years, he lost his eyesight, but bore it
with courage and fortitude, was always present at the meetings of
the society and was highly respected and beloved by all and was
always accompanied to his home after the close of our meetings
by some one of the society to protect him from accident or falling.
CAPT. JOHN SIMPSON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1843.
Died Sept. 7, 1887, aged 84 years, 11 months.
Superintendent of rooms from Nov. 26, 1868 to Nov. 1877.
Capt. John Simpson commanded ships Moses Wheeler, Sa-
ladin, Alkmar, Gen. Harrison, Astrea, barks Allioth and Statira.
CAPT. SAMUEL KNAPP,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1843.
Died Jan. 21, 1858, aged 54 years.
Capt. Knapp commanded brigs Sea Island, Lady Washington.
Carthage, ships John Currier, Gen. Harrison, Ferax, Clarisa
Currier, bark John Caskie.
388 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
CAPT. SAMUEL GOODHUE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1844.
Lost on Long Island Sound, Oct. 10, 1866, aged 61 years, 5
months, 26 days.
Capt. Goodhue was in command of ships Franklin, Pacific,
Talbot, Nestoria and Geneva.
CAPT. OLIVER O. JONES,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1844.
Died Feb. 9, 1856, aged 47 years.
Capt. Jones was in command of brig Athens, bark Hesper,
brig James Caskie, bark Antwerp, brig Essex.
Oct. 18, 1849, brig James Caskie, Oliver O. Jones, master,
sailed for San Francisco. Passengers, Mrs. Jones and child, Gor-
ham Currier, Charles H. Currier, Charles H. Hale, all of New-
buryport.
[EXPERIENCE IN THE LIFE OF CAPT. JONES IN CALIFORNIA, 1849-50.]
October 20, 1850.
Today I heard that the brig James Caskie, Capt. O. O. Jones, was
boarded last night by a band of robbers, and Capt. Jones severely wound-
ed, and I immediately took our small boat and went off to see him. I
found him in his cabin, lying on a cot, his face covered with wounds and
his shirt with blood. He had been suffering from absence of mind, pre-
vious to. my going off, but during the time I was with him, he was quite
rational, and tfalked freely of last night's doings. I found his wife in a
high state of excitement also. Poor woman, she had suffered everything
during the last night's affray. It appears that the Captain and his wife
and little boy, and a young man about eighteen years of age, were the only
persons on board. The Captain and his wife retired early in the evening,
and in the dead hours of night they heard a noise and some one coming
down into the cabin. The Captain said he thought some of us had been
out in the harbor in a boat, and had come on board to frighten him, but
presently the individuals came into the cabin with a dark lantern, and
made for his stateroom door; he immediately got up and placed himself
in a state of defence, but he had no weapons that he could get hold of.
They cried out, "Kill him!" and fired their revolvers at him, but by some
means not a ball struck him, but lodged in different places in the sides of
the cabin. One of the robbers got a broad sword that was on board of
the vessel, and attacked the Captain with thai). He left several marks
with this instrument on the sides of the door where he had aimed his
blows at the Captain, which were evaded by him. After they had fired
their pistols, and the dark lantern had been put out, they had some hard
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 389
fighting, Mrs. Jones begging all the time for the life of her husband and
offering them anything on board if they would only spare his life, but
they cried out: "Kill him! Damn him, how strong he is!" etc. One man
finally got the Captain's head under his arm, and then held it, telling one
of the others to stab him under his ear, and as he struck at him with a
dirk, Capt. Jones snatched it out of his hand and thrust it down on the
floor, where the man could not find it again. I saw the dirk. It was very
much bent by the grip of the Captain in getting it from the robber. They
then struck him several blows with a slung shot, which prostrated him,
and after leaving him, they demanded of Mrs. Jones the money. She gave
them a box of silver, $900, and after searching the cabin and taking what
they wanted, they left him tied, and shut the door and placed her in an
apartment outside the cabin, and told her not to go in and release him
under half an hour, or both of their lives would be in danger. They then
went on deck and hauled a slide over the stairway, and put two bundles of
shingles over it. After she had stood in her allotted place, trembling, for
half an hour, she ventured to open the door and go into the room where
her husband was tied. She asked him if he wished to be untied (appar-
ently to ascertain if he had returned to consciousness), when he replied in
the affirmative. When she got a light, and looked upon him, such a sight
she never beheld. His face, head and shirt were covered with blood, and
flesh from head hanging in shreds; also his hands all torn to pieces. Mrs.
Jones (from necessity), collected her thoughts, and got the Captain to
swallow strong doses of brandy, and took water and partially cleansed the
face and hands, bound up the hanging flesh the best she could. In about
one hour's time the Captain, with the stimulants and partial dressing of
wounds, came to himself, so as to be able to get on deck, with the help
of the young man, who had been tied up and locked in a room, the first
thing the robbers did when they came on board. After the Captain re-
gained the deck, all came up, Mrs. Jones and son, with the young man.
The first help that came was the steamer Tehama, just coming to her
berth at San Francisco from up river. Capt. Jones hailed her as she
passed, and like true men, she came to us. They got a cot put up, placed
tne Captain on it, and did lots of kindly service, and sent a physician on
board, who dressed his wounds, and said they were not necessarily incur-
able.
The Captain fought desperately till they used the slung shot, and
struck him over the head and made several holes in his skull. How he
escaped with his life is a miracle.
Mrs. Jones' system was in such a state of excitement that at times
she was wandering in her mind, and imagined she saw the robbers as on
that eventful night.
Capt. Robert Pearson, of Newburyport, came after her in his boat.
She went on board some nights with Capt. Pearson and wife, but re-
turned to the brig in day times,
Long months after, Capt. Jones recovered sufficiently of his wounds
to leave San Francisco in the brig for Callao and home, having seen four
of the robbers hung, after confessing, by the Vigilance Committee of San
Francisco. J. F. STUART, of Newburyport.
25-b
390 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
CAPT. JOHN C. HOYT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1844.
Died March 28, 1862, aged 58 years.
Capt. Hoyt commanded bark Oberlin, ships Dolphin, Gen.
Parkhill, ship East Indian.
CAPT. ISAAC N. KNAPP,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1844.
Resigned Aug. 28, 185 1.
Capt. Knapp was born in Newburyport, June 1, 1814. He
made his first voyage when 13 years old in the schooner Mary
Jane of Newburyport ; continuing his sea life in various capacities,
he took command of the brig Carthage of Newburyport in 1840,
and had command of her until 1847. After this he sailed as master
in many vessels. Brig Ann, Barks Park, Little Lizzie, ships
Lanerk, Mayflower, Commonwealth, Kentucky, William Chamber-
lain, Crown Point, Don Quixote, Cultivator, barks Elizabeth
Leavett, Helen Marr, Edwin and others.
CAPT. THOMAS PRITCHARD, JR.,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1845.
Died Nov. 2, 1865, aged 54 years, 10 months.
Capt. Pritchard was master of brig Massachusetts, bark Na-
bob, ships Whampoa, Lilla Mansfield, Navigator, Hesper, Prince
Imperial and Sonora.
CAPT. ISAAC GREEN JOHNSON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1845.
Died Oct. 29, 1852, aged 43 years.
Capt. Johnson was in command of brig Ark and ship Persia.
CAPT. ALEXANDER GRAVES,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1845.
Died May 17, 1869, aged 46 years.
Capt. Graves commanded ships Castilian, Kennmore and
Tennyson.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 39I
CAPT. JOSHUA HALE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1845.
Died April 18, 1894, aged 81 years, 4 months.
In a letter written to the secretary of the Marine Society
March 4, 1891, Capt. Hale says "I was born in Newburyport in
December 181 2, and went to New York in 1829, was clerk in an
insurance office agency of Washington Marine Insurance Com-
pany of Boston. By a law of the state of New York, agencies
from other states were prohibited from insuring in New York and
the Atlantic Marine Insurance Company of New York was formed
and organized in November 1829, and I was chosen secretary.
My health failed me and I went to sea in the brig America in 1830
on leave of absence and at the end of my voyage returned to the
office. I soon found that I could not confine myself to office work,
suffering very much from severe headaches. In 1831 I resigned
my position as secretary and concluded to change my business and
went to sea in brig Alice and was in her as mate and captain,
taking command in May, 1833, in Savannah, and remained in her
till taking charge of the ship Persia in 1835, in New Orleans. The
ship was sold in 1836, and again I tried to live on shore and was
chosen vice president and inspector of the Union Marine Insur-
ance Company of New York, and held the position only six months
before I was again compelled on account of health to leave the
office work and have more out door employment. As health was
now the main business, and being at sea suited me, I took com-
mand of the ship John Barring of New York and went to New
Orleans and Liverpool and into the Baltic to Gothland to bring
home the cargo of the ship Milo (wrecked there) to Boston. The
ship Geneva was built in 1837 and I took charge of her and was
in her until 1843, when we built the Pacific, and in 1844 I took
command of her and was in her until 1846; then took the new
ship Huguenot and was in her only one year, when my family was
sick and I gave up going to sea, for the time, which
proved to be all time. Since then I have lived in this "our good
city by the sea" in the house in which I was born. My health
since 1870 has not been strong and I have had several cases of
very severe sickness and been confined to my house over a year
at a time, in consequence of which I resigned all positions of trust
in which my friends had placed me, in Mechanicks bank, Institu-
392 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
tion for Savings, Bartlett Mills, etc., and now am trying to live
quietly and do what good I can while here and await the call we
all must hear and be ready when the summons shall come, with I
hope, a perfect trust in Him, whose I am. With my ardent wish
and prayer for the welfare of each and every member of our so-
ciety. Your respectfully. JOSHUA HALE."
OAPT. MOSES BROWN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1847.
Died Aug. 27, 1862, aged 53 years.
CAPT. OLIVER D. PILLSBURY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1848.
Died at Chariest own, Oct. 4, 1852, aged 34 years.
Capt. Pillsbury was born in Byfield, Newbury, Dec. 30, 1816,
He was the son of Paul Pillsbury, who was among the first to
enlist as a soldier in the war of 1812. He was a stern parent and
his boys left home as soon as possible. One of them, Oliver D. (our
subject) put on two suits of clothes one Sunday morning and left
the house under the pretext of doing some household chores and
went to sea, where he rose to be master, and did not return for
nine years. He was master of bark Hesper, brigs James Caskie,
Salisbury and James Gray.
CAPT. ROBERT BAYLEY, JR.,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1849.
Died Nov. II, 1883, aged 75 years, 4 months.
Capt. Bayley was born in Newbury in 1808. He became a
master very early in life, trading to the West Indies, sailing in the
brig Cedric, barks Panchinta, Ann and William Schroder. In 1830,
in connection with his father, he founded the house of Robert
Bayley & Sons and continued in the West India trade until Jan.
I, 1879. For many years the firm paid custom duties from $50,000
to $100,000 a year, and built several vessels, viz: Brig Almira, 176
tons, bark Edward Kopisch, 250 tons, bark William Schroder,
schooner Amelia, 129 tons, schooner Edward Lameyer, 164 tons,
brig Tula, 181 tons.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 393
CAPT. CHARLES M. BAYLEY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1849.
Died March 13, 1892, aged 78 years.
Capt. Bayley commanded brig Cedric, brig Barcley, barks
Panchita and William Schroder. July 20, 1840, in coming into
Newburyport in the bark Panchita, the mate, Mr. Abram Lunt, in
firing a salute, the second charge exploded and Mr. Lunt's hand
was taken off at the wrist and had to be amputated. Upon retir-
ing from the sea, Capt. Bayley united with the house of Robert
Bayley & Sons and continued with them through life.
CAPT. HENRY COOK,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1849.
Died Nov. 23, 1886, aged 70 years, 9 days.
Treasurer from Nov. 28, 1878 to Nov. 24, 1881.
Vice President from Nov. 24, 1881 to Nov. 29, 1883.
President from Nov. 29, 1883, to his resignation, Nov. 27, 1884.
Capt. Cook commanded ships Bengal, Crown Point, Jacob
Horton, Hannah Sprague, Isaac H. Boardman and North Atlan-
tic. He was a member of the city council in 1864.
CAPT. JOHN M. COFFIN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1850.
Died at New Orleans, Sept. 15, 1852. aged 38 years.
Capt. Coffin commanded ships Lowell, Albatross, Ocean
Queen, and Susan.
CAPT. JAMES COOK,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1850.
Died at Trenton, N. J., Aug. 9, 1880, aged 71 years.
Capt. Cook commanded brig Keying, barks Hesper, Waiter-
mata, ships Hannah Sprague and Bengal.
CAPT. WILLIAM H. LUNT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1850.
Died Sept. 28, 1900, aged 81 years, 4 months, 10 days.
Treasurer from Nov. 24, 1881 to Nov. 24, 1887.
394 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Capt. Lunt commanded many ships, viz: Hannah Sprague,
Caroline Tucker, Bell Wood, Atmosphere, Prima Donna, Cyno-
sure, Humbolt, Medora, Calumet, Palos, Helen McGraw, Lenora,
Longwood and Inez.
CAPT. FREDERICK MOORE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1850.
Died Dec. 27, 1887, aged 76 years, 1 month.
Capt. Moore commanded a large number of vessels, viz:
Brigs Nectar, Alpine, Ann, Lady Washington, bark William
Schroder, ships Winchester, Charles H. Lunt, North Atlantic
Montana, Copia, Caravan, Tacitus, Gen. Harrison, Amity, Jacob
Perkins, Nonamtum, Stanley and Cayzike.
CAPT. ANDREW J. MILTIMORE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1851.
Died Jan. 16, 1865, aged 93 years, 6 months.
Capt. Miltimore commanded ship Jane, brigs Alice and
American. On the voyage of the brig American, having sprung
aleak and abandoned at sea, crew saved by British bark Nana,
who afterwards became disabled and was also abandoned, both
crews saved by ship Nimrod and taken to St. John's, N. B.
CAPT. MOSES J. MULLIKEN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1851.
Died Dec. 23, 1903, aged 87 years, 2 months, 19 days.
Superintendent of rooms from 1881 to his death.
[the following account of his life was written by his son.]
• : Moses J. Mulliken, son of Samuel and Phebe Parsons Mul-
liken, was born the 4th of October, 1816, in Newburyport, Mass.
An upright character, inherited from his Puritan ancestors, united
with a disposition of rare sweetness, made him beloved and re-
spected by all who knew him.
After, graduating from the High school, he began his sea-
faring life as a boy of sixteen on board the Medora, a ship just
built in Newbury. Capt. William Graves was master, James
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 395
Clarkson mate, and nearly all the crew were from Newburyport.
They sailed from Newburyport, bound to Havre, and from there
went to Smyrna. Young Mulliken thus visited Asia before he had
seen Boston, the capital of his own state.
His second voyage was on board the bark Thalia, Capt. Lunt
master, and it was on this bark that he experienced his first and
only shipwreck. The vessel was lost at the head of the Baltic, off
the Isle of Dago. She ran on a reef, in the daytime, with a pilot
on board. The crew were picked up by a Russian man-of-war, and
Capt. Mulliken was fond of telling, in after days, how they break-
fasted that morning from mush in a huge iron kettle hung from the
middle of the forecastle. Each man was given a spoon, and pitched
in with all his might. Landing at Cronstadt, the American consul
found means of sending the sailors home. Capt. Mulliken saved
only the clothes he wore at the time, and a little box he was
bringing home to his sisters.
When second mate of the brig Corsica, Capt. Mulliken
visited England. It was an unusually cold winter, and the Mersey
was frozen over, which was a great novelty to the Englishmen.
Everyone was out on the river trying to skate. Capt. Mulliken,
like all Newburyport boys, was an adept at the art, and as soon as
he could leave, started out to see the fun. He hired a pair of
skates, and circled about the river in a way which made the John
Bulls stand in a ring around him, and clap their hands. In the
crowd was Capt. Isaac Bray, of Newburyport, and Mrs. Bray.
As a mate on the Corsica, Capt. Devereux master, bound to
Boston, Capt. Mulliken saw another cold winter. The rigging was
covered with ice, and what was worse, the provisions began to
give out before the voyage was ended. Finally one pilot bread a
day was the allowance. One stormy morning after the mate had
been on deck all night, Mrs. Devereux tried to make him share
her biscuit. Anyone who ever knew Capt. Mulliken can readily
imagine how quickly and determinedly he refused. When they
reached Boston, the harbor was frozen over, but fortunately a
steamer had just cut her way out to sea, and the Corsica sailed in
through this pathway.
The first vessel Capt. Mulliken commanded was the bark
John. It was on board of her that he had the yellow fever so se-
verely that it was feared he would not recover. Hailing a vessel
fresh from port he was given chicken and other food that strength-
396 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
ened him and very likely saved his life. Arriving in New York,
he was just able to file his papers and go through the necessary
business formalities. When he reached home, he was sick for six
months.
Perhaps one of his most interesting voyages was around Cape
Horn to California, in 1849. He was captain of the brig Mary
Wilder, hailing from Bath, carrying passengers from Boston to
San Francisco. They were a wild set of men, eager for adventure
and not averse to a quarrel. The long voyage was trying, and the
sight of another ship was welcomed as a great treat. If she were
homeward bound, letters would be thrown to her, tied to a piece
of hard coal. Sime times these landed on board the vessel, but
more often floated away on the waves. On the 17th of April there
is this entry in the log book :
"Spoke the ship Sutton, of and from New York, 105 days out.
Reported 25 days from Rio Janeiro, bound to California with pas-
sengers. We gave him three cheers, which were answered by
three cheers from the Sutton in return. We parted company after
playing the tune 'Yankee Doodle' by Mr. Goff on the fife."
The passengers occasionally caught an albatros. Once they
tried to make a pie from the bird, and another time a stew, but
neither was very palatable. Stopping at Talcahuano for water,
they found there the brig Charlotte, of Newburyport. They ar-
rived at San Francisco Aug. 7, 1849, after a voyage of 189 days.
When Capt. Mulliken went on shore for his mail, he found a long
line of people at the shanty, which answered as a postoffice, and
gold dust was circulating freely in exchange for positions in the
procession. In November, he sold the brig, and returned over the
Isthmus, on a donkey's back, sailed to New York on the steamer
Crescent City, and arrived home just before Christmas.
The following year he made another voyage to California,
this time master of the brig Rachel Stevens. From San Francisco
he went to Humboldt Bay for a cargo of lumber. The Bay was
not then surveyed by the government, and in the log book is the
map he made, showing the depth of water, shoals, creeks, and
different kinds of timber on the banks, as well as two houses.
In May, 1852, he sailed from New York in the bark Mary
and Jane for a voyage around the world. He left San Francisco
the 3rd of February, 1853, and on March 27th of the same year,
he wrote as follows in his log book :
THK MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 397
"It is now 52 days since we left' San Francisco, and we are
now at the entrance of the China Sea. A kind Providence has
watched us and protected us in safety thus far across the broad
Pacific, we having sailed about eight thousand miles without see-
ing a vessel, until this morning, which proved to be a bark bound
to the eastward through the Passage."
Arriving at Singapore, April 14th, 1853, they took about one
hundred tons of tea, and then proceeded to Penang, where they
finished loading with pepper. That pepper made itself known in
the captain's clothing long after the voyage was finished. They
arrived home in October, 1853.
The ship Anna F. Schmidt, of which he was part owner, was
launched at Kennebunk, Maine, in 1854. Taking command of her
at once, he carried passengers between New York and Antwerp,
and afterwards was in the cotton trade between New Orleans and
the northern ports of Europe. In this ship he made sixteen trips
across the Atlantic. During his last voyage in her he took off the
crew from an English vessel, sinking during a severe storm in mid
ocean. The Schmidt was burned by the Alabama, but Capt. Mul-
liken was then in command of another vessel.
During the war Capt. Mulliken was master of the Blondel,
an American ship, flying the stars and stripes, with a spread eagle
painted on her prow. He sailed from, Baltimore in the last of i860
before Fort Sumter was fired upon, and went to Rotterdam. He
then went to Sunderland and loaded with a cargo of coal for Sin-
gapore. From Singapore he sailed to Mauritius, where the cholera
was raging.
In 1863 Capt. Mulliken was again in Calcutta on the Blondel,
and as it happened, an English ship by the name of Blonden, was
also in port. On account of the rebel privateer, Capt. Mulliken did
not advertise in the papers, as did the Blonden. The English cap-
tain told Capt. Mulliken of the mischief the Alabama was doing in
the immediate neighborhood, but Capt. Mulliken, nevertheless,
sailed for Philadelphia the last of September. A few days pre-
vious the Blonden left for Liverpool. Capt. Mulliken had been
at sea but a short time, when one dark night he was awakened by
his mate, and told that a long, black bark, lit with lanterns, a pro-
peller under canvas, was overtaking them. Capt. Mulliken hur-
ried on deck and the strange vessel was near enough to hail the
Blondel, asking her name, wherefrom and where bound. Capt.
398 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Mulliken, with quick presence of mind, remembering the English
Blonden, advertised in the papers, answered Blonden, from Cal-
cutta, bound to Liverpool. The steamer at once changed her
course, and sailed away. The wheelsman spoke to the captain,
and said : "Sir, did you know that was the Alabama ? I have seen
her before." And the captain answered that he did. Capt. Mulli-
ken always questioned whether he did right in not telling the truth
that night, but probably he would have done the same thing a sec-
ond time, had the circumstances been the same.
In 1869 he carried a cargo of locomotives and railroad iron
from New York to Molendo, in the ship City of Brooklyn. It was
a very heavy cargo and difficult to unload in the heavy surf, but
was successfully landed.
Capt. Mulliken's last voyages were to the iWest Indies. In all
he made sixty-three trips across the Atlantic ocean, visited nearly
all the sea coast countries of Europe, Brazil, Argentine Republic,
Peru and Chili in South America, made at least four trips around
Cape Horn, was well acquainted with Asia, and had sailed around
the world.
The remainder of his life he spent at his home in Newbury-
port, and almost every day saw him at his duties as superintendent
of the Marine rooms. He married March 14th, i860, Miss Sarah
D. Gibbs, of Sandwich, Mass., and four children were born to
them. Capt. Mulliken died December 23rd, 1903.
The following vessels are those on board of which he served
in the capacity of boy, seaman, first and second officer and as
master: Ship Medora, Capt. Graves, master, Newburyport to
Smyrna ; bark Thalia, 1833, Newburyport to Liverpool ; bark Tha-
lia, Capt. George Lunt master, New York via Matanza, to St.
Petersburg; Alpine, brig Carrier, ship Angelo, Capt. Jaques ;
Georges, Capt. Colt ; ship Inez, Capt. Henry Cook ; bark 'Wolga,
Capt. George Turner, 1840, Boston to Havana, Cowes, Amster-
dam, Venice, Smyrna, and back to Boston, 1842; bark Cooper,
Capt. Huffington; ship Olofwyk, Capt. Meacom ; ship Corsica,
Capt. Devereux; schooner John, Capt. Mulliken; brig Albion
Cooper, Capt. Mulliken ; ship Mary Wilder, 1849, Boston to San
Francisco, passengers; brig Rachel Stevens, 1850, Boston to San
Francisco; Mary and Jane, 1852, New York to San Francisco,
Singapore, and back to New York; bark Lion, Eureka, Anna F.
Schmidt, 1854 to i860, New York and Antwerp, with passengers,
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 399
New Orleans to Havre and various ports in northern Europe, 16
voyages at least ; bark Blondel, Dec. i860 to 1864, Baltimore to
Rotterdam, England to Calcutta ad East Indian ports, two voy-
ages; ship City of Brooklyn, 1867-1870, New York to Molendo,
Peru, Callao and return, railroad iron and locomotives; schooner
Edward Lamyer, 1872- 1876, Newburyport to West Indies;
schooner Lizzie Kimball, 1874, Newburyport to West Indies.
CAPT. THOMAS C. PAGE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1852.
Died at Port Cabello, Feb. 14, 1853, aged 41 years.
Capt. Page was master of schooner Amelia when he died.
CAPT. CHARLES MARSH,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1852.
Died July 18, 1867, aged 67 years.
Capt. Marsh commanded brigs Ark, Importer and Nancy,
bark Wesacumcon, schooners Louisiana, Glide, Leader, and ship
Anna Kimball.
, CAPT. ROBERT COUCH,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1852.
Died May 17, 1896, aged 78 years, 10 months, 19 days.
Vice President from Nov. 29, 1883 to Nov. 27, 1884.
President from Nov. 27, 1884, to Nov. 24, 1892.
Capt. Couch was master of brig Aeolus, bark Madonna, bark
Flora, brig Chemanus, ships Brutus, Guiding Star, George West.
Capt. Couch was representative to the General Court in 1872,
mayor of the city of Newburyport 1870 and 1881, school commit-
tee 1866.
CAPT. STEPHEN G. HASKELL,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1853.
Died Sept. 23, aged 40 years.
Capt. Haskell was in command of bark Marseilles.
400 RBCORDS AND HISTORY OF
CAPT. SAMUEL WALTON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1853.
Died Aug. 23, 1859, aged 58 years.
Capt. Walton was master of bark Kedar, ship Dolphin, J. N.
Walton and Josephus. From letters received in Newburyport in
1859, we learn that Capt. Walton and wife died at Antwerp. The
bodies were prepared to be brought to this country in the ship
Josephus, on board of which he died. The vessel was afterwards
driven into Fayal, but a week before reaching that port on Oct. 19,
1859 the bodies were consigned to the deep. Lat. 31-36, Long.
38-38, to rest until the ocean shall give up its dead.
CAPT. SAMUEL W. PIKE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1853.
Died Jan. 31, 1885, aged 64 years, 11 months.
Capt. Pike commanded ships Meteor, Leopold, Medera, Sea
Serpent, Calumet, Favorite, Naples, Winfield Scott, Marma-
luke. March 12, 1861 Capt. Pike was presented a beautiful chro-
nometer by the Insurance Company of Boston and New York for
their appreciation of his skill, perseverance and energy in bringing
the ship Marmaluke into port in a leaky condition from Baker's
Island, New York.
CAPT. HENRY M. GRAVES,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1853.
Died at Calcutta, Aug. 27, 1868, aged 50 years.
Capt. Graves commanded ships Cygnet, Leopard, Parthenia,
Inez, North Atlantic and Pocahontas.
CAPT. MOSES PIKE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1853.
Died Jan. 27, 1890, aged 78 years.
Capt. Pike commanded brig Sterling, bark Chesapeake, ships
Planet, Plutarch, Medora, Rapid, St. Albans and Archer.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 4OI
CAPT. JOHN H. SPRING,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1853.
Died Nov. 14, 1873, aged 73 years.
Capt. Spring at the age of 19 was captain's clerk on a voyage
to the East Indies and soon afterwards he was master in the Pacific
trade. On one voyage, March 11, 1842, he took 14 missionaries to
the Sandwich Islands. He commanded brig Citizen, ships Sea,
Victoria, Huntress and brig Mass. He was killed by an accident,
being thrown from his carriage, breaking his neck.
CAPT. SAMUEL W. CHASE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1853.
Drowned April 24 ,1856.
Capt. Chase commanded bark Allioth, ship Saladin.
CAPT. JOHN T. BAYLEY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1853.
Died Dec. 20, 1864, aged 38 years.
Capt. Bayley commanded the bark Panchita.
CAPT. CHARLES B. STEVENS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1854.
Died July 9, 1873, aged 45 years, 1 month.
Capt. Stevens commanded brig Choctow, bark Hesper and
S. W. Porter, ships Rio Del Oceana, John Porter, Hamlet, Star of
Peace, Martha Washington and steamer C. B. Stevens.
CAPT. NICHOLAS VARINA,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1855.
Died Oct. 25, 1881, aged 66 years, 10 months.
Capt. Varina was master of schooners Vulture, Hoogly, Mer-
riden, brigs Pandora, Forest, bark John W. Coffin, ships Key-
stone, Gen. Cushing, Shooza and steamer C. B. Stevens. Capt.
Varina was a member of the city council in 1863 and 1870.
26-a
402 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
CAPT. MICAJAH LUNT, JR.,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1855.
Died Jan. 18, 1867, aged 32 years.
Capt. Lunt in 1850, when 18 years old, was second mate of
the ship Fanchon, George Lunt, master. The ship was loaded at
Baltimore with bituminous coal for San Francisco and was burnt
at sea on the coast of Peru, S. A. On account of there being no
way of information, the owners did not know of their loss until
the captain and second mate arrived in Newburyport. Capt. Lunt
was master afterwards of ships Gleaner, Winona, Volant and Gul-
nare.
CAPT. JOHN M. BOYSON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1855.
Died at Danvers Jan. 1, 1883, aged 71 years.
Capt. Boyson commanded ships Uncle Joe and Consignment.
CAPT. ABRAM SOMERBY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1855.
Resigned.
CAPT. GEORGE PIERCE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1855.
Died Oct. 8, 1884, aged 67 years.
Capt. Pierce was master of brig Anna A. Tyng, bark Hannah
Sprague, ships Ladozo, Lawrence Brown, Nearchus and Elcano.
CAPT. GEORGE W. HALE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1855.
Died June 24, 2891, aged 67 years.
Capt. Hale commanded ships Ocean Queen, Mariposa,
Charles H. Lunt, Don Quixote, Pacific, Lebanon, Guiding Star,
Sancho Panza, Albert Edward.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 403
CAPT. ALBERT CHEEVER,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1856.
Died Jan. 15, 1898, aged 80 years.
Vice President from Nov. 27, 1884 to Nov. 24, 1892.
President from Nov. 24, 1892 to Nov. 28, 1895.
Capt. Albert Cheever was born in Castine, Me. His first trip
to sea was in a new Pinky schooner. His first deep sea voyage
was in the brig Pocahontas, Capt. James Cook, as able seaman.
The brig was loaded in Antwerp with arms and ammunition for
Russian ports. His first command was in the brig James Caskie,
bound for Bordeau with tobacco and made 13 voyages in her. Next
in ship Lyra to India, China and other ports. In 1865 took the
ship Elcano. His last ship, the Calumet, from 1868 until she was
lost on Bermuda in 1873, having made 56 foreign voyages. He
was alderman of the city in 1880.
CAPT. NEHEMIAH A. BRAY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1856.
Disfranchised.
CAPT. CHARLES T. SMITH,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1856.
Died at Chelsea, March 30, 1889.
Capt. Smith commanded brigs J. W. Havenor, and Corinth,
bark Signal and ships Euphrasia and Oliver Putnam.
CAPT. WILLIAM H. SHOOF,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1856.
Died Aug. 28, 1868, aged 35 years.
Capt. Shoof commanded Bark Strabo, ships Black Hawk, Par-
thenia and Ocean Queen.
CAPT. EDWIN J. COLBY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1856.
Died at Bremen, Dec. 19, 1859, aged 47 years.
404 RECORDS AND HISTORY OP
The following was written by his daughter, Mrs. J. T. Wil-
liams, Salisbury Point:
Capt. Edwin J. Colby was born at Salisbury Point, Mass.,
July 31, 1812, and was the son of John and Dolly Bagley Colby,
being the oldest of nine children. As a boy he evinced a taste for
the sea, and at the early age of 17 years he commenced his sea-
faring life with Capt. 'William Morrill of Salisbury, in the ship Vir-
ginia of Alexandria, in August, 1829, going to different southern
ports, Richmand, Jamestown, Norfolk and Hampton Roads. In a
few years he sailed with the same Capt. Morrill on the Maryland,
and at the age of 21 he was second mate of that ship and went to
Liverpool. Not long after he was advanced to the position of first
mate of the brig Vesta, Capt. Knapp, and visited Havana and
other places in the West Indies, also foreign ports. In 1839 he
was made a captain of the Jeannette, and in 1841 he commanded
the brig Alice of New York, owned by Thomas and Eben Hale
(perhaps others). The names of other vessels that afterwards he
was master of were the brig Salisbury of Newburyport, bark Tar-
tar, the ships Arno, Edward and the Atlanta, which was owned
by Theodore Chase & Co., of Boston.
His voyages were usually long, covering a period of nearly
two years, and while in the earlier part of his life he went to the
southern ports, the later trips were made to the ports in South
America, Valpariso, Callao, Chincha Islands, to Melbourne, Aus-
tralia, St. Helena, to Cadiz, through the Mediterranean to Paler-
mo, Sicily, and up the Adriatic Sea to Trieste. He visited Havre
and Bordeaux, Falmouth and Liverpool, London, Isle of Cowes,
Elsinore in Denmark, Amsterdam in Holland, and Cronstadt in
Russia, Bremen in Germany, Calcutta, Singapore and Aykab,
China and Japan. On the 10th of March, 1858, he sailed on the
Atlantic from Boston for Calcutta, Melbourne and Bremen, reach-
ing the latter place about December 1859. Here he was taken sick
and went to the home of his friend, Henri Wehmann of Vegesack,
in order to have proper care and physician's services, but in spite
of the constant attention of his friends and the physician's skill, he
grew rapidly worse and on the 19th of December, 1859, ne passed
away in the 48th year of his age.
He was buried in the family lot of the Wehmann's at Nege-
sack with Masonic honors, be being a member of Warren Lodge
of Amesbury, of Washington Lodge of Charleston S. C, and was
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 405
made honorary member of Industry and Perseverance Lodge of
England at Calcutta, on Sept. II, 1857, and was presented with a
gold badge by that lodge.
He joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1856, and was a mem-
ber in good standing at" the time of his death. He was a noble
character, and his kind and genial nature made him many friends
who respected and esteemed him. He had the confidence and re-
gard of his employers, and was a valued citizen of his native place.
His devotion to his family was constant and he was well worthy
of their affection. He left a wife who survived him only two years.
CAPT. CALEB W. NORRIS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1827.
Died at Canton, Dec. 13, 1833, aged 41 years.
Capt. Norris commanded the brig Crusader, ships Merrimack,
Charles Carroll, Golgonda and Potomac.
CAPT. THOMAS A. SMITH,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1827.
Died Dec. 10, 185 1, aged 56 years.
Capt. Smith commanded the brig Pocahontas and brig Mars.
CAPT. NATHANIEL HALE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1856.
Died at London, Jan. 6, 1863, aged 40 years.
Capt. Hale commanded brig Salisbury, ships Pacific, Argo-
naut, Sancho Panza, Don Quixote, Ocean Express and Josiah L.
Hale.
CAPT. EDWARD GRAVES,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1856.
Lost at sea, Feb. 23, 1873, aged 42 years.
Capt. Graves commenced his sea life when 16 years old. He
commanded bark Washington Allstone, ships Josiah L. Hale,
Kennimore, Tennyson. He was lost in the Tennyson, Feb. 22,
1873, socth of Mauritius.
2<5-b
406 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
CAPT. ELBRIDGE G. COLBY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1856.
Died Jan. 31, 1866, aged 50 years.
[NARRATIVE OF HIS LIFE, WRITTEN BY JOHN F. JOHNSON, OF AMESBURYJ
Capt. Elbridge Gerry Colby, son of Mr. John and Dolly Bag-
ley Colby, born at Salisbury, Mass., on the banks of the Merrimac
river, May 10, 181 5, and died at Amesbury, Mass., Jan. 31, 1866.
In early life he acquired his love of the sea and knowledge of
the duties of a seaman by taking frequent trips along the coast in
the schooner of his uncle, Capt. Abraham Colby.
In his 17th year he shipped as a sailor with Capt. Ebenezer
Thompson of Portsmouth, N. H., in the ship Walter Scott, built
by his father, (of the firm of Keniston & Colby), which was
launched on the day of the death of Sir Walter Scott, in memory
of whom she was named, at Salisbury Point, Mass. He became
second mate on the Walter Scott, and later in 1836, was mate of
the ship Clarissa Andrews, Capt. Todd. He passed through all
grades of promotion, until his prompt business qualities and thor-
ough knowledge of the duties of seamanship secured for him in
1839 the command of a merchant ship, in which capacity he served
for 20 years, and most of that time in the employ of the late
Theodore Chase of Boston. He was captain and part owner of
the ship Atlantic in 1850, built at Amesbury. In 1859 Capt. Colby
abandoned his profession and was elected to represent his town in
the Legislature.
The death of his brother, Capt. Edwin J. Colby, while in com-
mand of a ship in Bremen, Germany, compelled him to resign his
seat, and at the solicitation of the owners, he went to Europe, to
take charge of the ship and complete the voyage.
After his return he made a voyage to California as captain of
the ship Eagle Wing, in 1861, and came home with impaired health,
but recovered so far as to be able to engage in trade in Amesbury.
His active mind would not allow him to retire from business, and
although the ocean had been almost as a home, he continued to be
successful in trade until disease compelled him to relinquish it.
His death was a loss to the community. He was most highly
esteemed as one who was ever active in promoting the true inter-
ests of the town and state, and was ever ready to respond to the
calls of charity.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT /\Oj
A BRAVE DEED BY A SALISBURY SAILOR.
It was towards the last of December, 1854, that the good ship
Atlanta, of 700 tons burden, commanded by Capt. Elbridge Gerry
Colby of Salisbury, was bound from New Orleans to Liverpool,
loaded with cotton. She was in mid ocean about half passage over.
It happened in the middle watch about 2 o'clock in the morning.
Capt. Colby was standing the second mate's (Mr. William Mer-
rill's) watch for him — he being sick below with fever.
The night was squally, with rain ; they had cleared up the light
sail and sent men aloft to furl them. When the men came down
from the foretop gallant yard, they reported the foretop gallant
mast sprung. Capt. Colby started aloft to see for himself the ex-
tent of the damage. Finding the mast would have to be sent down
he gave the orders to have the foretop gallant stay and the back
stays come up with. Meanwhile he was getting the foretop gallant
yard ready to be sent down. When the stay was let go it caused
the mast to jerk back aft with such quick force as to throw Capt.
Colby off. He fell abaft the top sail yard, struck on the fore yard
down forward the foresail, overboard, into the sea on the lee side.
He told me every act of his life passed through his brain in that
moment of time, which people who have been in imminent peril
will appreciate.
He remembered also in falling that there was no officer on
deck ; he went down, down, apparently to a great depth, but not so
far as he thought, for when he turned and came to the surface he
was right under the lee quarters of the ship and going rapidly
astern. He had all his senses about him, although badly injured,
and with the quick, intuitive perception of an experienced sea-
man, he called out with all his powers to the man at the wheel
"Hard down your helm, throw the buoy overboard." The life
buoy, a Liverpool one, was a circle of canvas, double and filled
with cork, it hung behind the man at the wheel on the round house
ready for use.
The man, a quick-wtted and quick-motioned one, put the
ship's helm hard down, as ordered from the water, and quickly
caught the life buoy from its place and threw it with all his force
to his captain, then out of sight astern.
Who that does not believe in the care and Providence of God
watching over all, let him explain this fact.
408 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
The light in the binnacle that lights the compass hung high
enough to throw its halo astern, lighting a small space with its
dim light in the ship's wake.
Into this magic circle of not more than two feet in circumfer-
ence, the life buoy struck. Capt. Colby was a good swimmer ; he
watched with such intense interest (as only a man could whose life
hung on so small a chance) the receding ship, and tried to see the
buoy strike the water.
He saw it in that ray of light that alone shone upon the water,
and he determined to make all possible effort to reach it. Divest-
ing himself of his overcoat, boots and heavy clothing, he swam in
the direction he saw the buoy strike. Three times the seas broke
over him, the last one overwhelming him, almost strangling
him. Injured as he was, and struggling almost against hope in his
apparently lost condition, he was almost giving up, but the
thought of the dear wife in the cabin and loved ones at home
nerved him to a further and prolonged effort, and God granted
him the boon he asked for, the life buoy. He came within its reach,
and was for the time being saved. Putting it over his head and
extending his arms above it, his first act was to return thanks
to God for his mercy, and he floated upon the waters in utter dark-
ness, waiting for what might come to save him.
He told us he never doubted being saved and standing on the
deck of his ship again. He said: "I knew I had men there who
would do and dare all that men could to save me." Tears filled his
eyes and his utterance was choked at the remembrance of the ex-
citing scene. After results showed that his faith in his fellow men
was well placed, and nobly was it answered.
Turn we now to the Atlanta. Let us disgress a moment to
say that years before when Capt. Colby was second officer of the
ship Walter Scott, commanded by Capt. Thompson, of Ports-
mouth, she was struck by lightning in the Gulf Stream, loaded
with cotton. While under close reefed topsails, blowing a gale, the
ship was quickly enveloped in flames, driving the crew and one
lady passenger to the boats, which were lowered in safety, provis-
ions and wlater put in them, which were all ready, for Capt.
Thompson having had a similar experience before, had his boats
always ready for an emergency, and so the crew were saved.
This lesson was not lost on Capt. Colby ; his boats were al-
ways ready for immediate use, and to that fact he was probably
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 409
indebted for his life on this occasion. He had some preparation
of his own for the instantaneous lowering of a boat. When the
captain's fall from aloft occurred the steward shouted down into
the cabin, "The captain's overboard." Capt. William H. Merrill,
then the sick second mate below, whose watch Capt Colby had
been standing, sprang upon deck, sick as he was, with no clothing
but his shirt, jumped into a quarter boat, calling for volunteers.
Ordering the boat instantly lowered, he went out into the
darkness, to find, if possible, his lost captain, one of the most dan-
gerous things a seaman may be called upon to do, for those who
go to sea know how soon an object, even a large ship with all
sail set, may be lost to sight.
This gallant man, standing on a thwart, or seat, to be high
above the water, to see as far as possible, looking and listening
intently for his voice with all his powers, and once when the boat's
crew feeling their own lives in peril from being separated so far
from their ship, insisted on turning back and leaving the captain
to his sad fate, Mr. Miller unshipped the tiller, threatening to
brain the first man who flinched or mentioned such a thing again.
Unnaturally nerved by his noble impulse and rising above the
prostration of sickness, God crowned his efforts — his captain was
saved. Taken on board his ship again he soon recovered to make
glad the heart of his wife who feared he was gone from her for-
ever.
CAPT. GEORGE W. KNIGHT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1858.
Died Jan. 14, 1886, aged 74 years, 10 months.
Capt. Knight in his early life was engaged in fishing vessels,
viz: Schooners Independence, Herald and Pilot, brig L. Orient,
bark Copia, ships Crown Point, New World, Keystone and
Simoda.
CAPT. CHARLES HALE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1858.
Died at London, Jan. 20, 1862, aged 36 years.
Capt. Hale commanded bark Alice Tarlton, ships Ocean Ex-
press and Charles Hill.
4*0 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
CAPT. GEORGE E. BALCH,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1858.
Disfranchised.
Capt. Balch commanded ships Kearsarge, Columbus and bark
Good Return.
CAPT. DAVID R. LECRAW,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1858.
Died at Marblehead, Dec. 21, 1885, aged 72 years, 4 months,
16 days.
He was master of the brig Rapid, ships Empress, Cuba, Oliver
Putnam, Hamlet, Charles Hill, Cygnet. His last ship was the
Dashing Wave, making several voyages in her to California and
East Indies.
CAPT. BENJAMIN P. DOW,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1859.
Died at San Francisco, April 17, 1869, aged 59 years.
Capt. Dow commanded brig Crimea, ships General Cushing
and Albert Edward.
CAPT. THOMAS MACKINNEY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1859.
Died Sept. 15, 1887, aged 68 years, 5 months.
Capt. Mackinney commanded bark Byron, ships Northern
Eagle, Albert Edward, Sarah Chase. He was alderman of the
city in 1879.
CAPT. CHARLES E. BAYLEY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1859.
Died at Jacamel, July 15, 1879, aged 42 years.
Secretary from Nov. 28, 1867 to his death, Aug. 29, 1878.
Capt. Bayley commanded schooners Julia A. Hallock, Charles
H. Rogers, Life Boat and Edward Lameyer, making many voy-
ages to the West Indies.
CAPT. CHARLES E. COKER.
PAST PRESIDENT.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 4II
CAPT. JEREMIAH LUNT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1859.
Died Feb. 18, 1874, aged 63 years.
Capt. Lunt commanded schooner Louisa, brigs Eschol,
Charlotte, schooners Ruby, Ellen, steamer Decatur, ships Josiah
L. Hale, Onward, Blondel, and was branch pilot for many years.
Brig Scio, Capt. Lunt, May 13, 1838, from Bangor to St.
Peters with lime (cargo) in Gulf St. Lawrence, 15th inst., thick
fog and south west gale of wind. Ice loomed up, hauled to north-
west sharp trying to make a passage between land and ice, failed,
then tried head to southward running along edge of ice pack, again
failed to find open space. Run about five miles and another field
closed in around us, the ice completely hemmed us in and began
crushing against the brig's sides with tremendous violence. Sound-
ed the pumps, 4 feet of water in hold, tried to keep her free and
launch boats, water gained, then tried to get lime out before water
got to it, but on opening hatches was all on fire. Took to small
boats with scant food and lantern, gained open sea after eight
hours work with oars. As we left brig, rails even with water.
Schooner George picked us up and put us on board a French
coaster, who landed us at this port (Magdalene Islands). Ameri-
can consul sent us home. *CAPT. JERRY LUNT.
CAPT. JOSEPH HOYT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, i860.
Died June 5, 1880, aged 68 years, 9 months.
Capt. Hoyt commanded barks Warren Ordway and Oberlin,
ships East Indies and Copia.
CAPT. CHARLES E. COKER,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, i860.
Vice President from Nov. 24, 1892 to Nov. 28, 1895.
President from Nov. 28, 1895 to Nov. 26, 1896-
*From his diary.
412 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
[from the diary of captain coker.]
Capt. Charles Coker commenced his sea life in the employ of
the late Robert Bayley & Sons of Newburyport and later in life
commanded three vessels owned by them. During the civil war he
was employed by the U. S. government in transporting war ma-
terials to the department of the south, on one trip was fired upon
by the fleet blockading Charlestown, S. C, supposing his vessel to
be a blockade runner. While the U. S. troops occupied St. Helena
Island, S. C, Capt. Coker was appointed harbor master. He was
present with his vessel at the capture of Fort Pulaski by U. S.
troops and assisted with his boats crew in saving the wounded.
After the attack on Dafuskie Islands, for some months, Capt.
Coker was engaged in carrying supplies to General McClellan's
army on the York and James rivers, Va. Coming north after the
war he built the brig Isis in Newburyport, in 1865, making many
voyages in her to different ports. Capt. Coker was the first to
move in petitioning the government for a light ship at Cape Hat-
teras shoals, and was at the entire expense in printing blanks,
traveling in many places in New England and as far south as
Texas. The petition was presented to Congress in January, 1883,
at the forty-seventh Congress in both houses, but the appropria-
tion was not immediately made, but was abundant when available
by the lighthouse department, and for years navigation has been
benefitted by the establishing of the light shp at that most danger-
ous point where formerly many lives and much valuable property
have been lost. In 1875 Capt. Coker built and commanded brig
John C. Noyes. In 1879 he carried a cargo of army wagons and
supplies to the scene of conflict during the Zulu war in South
Africa. (After several voyages to various ports, he retired from the
sea in 1887.
CAPT. EDMUND S. RAYNES,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, i860.
Died Dec. 24, 1883, aged 72 years.
Capt. Raynes commanded a large number of vessels, viz:
Schooners Halo, Armo, Tremont, Spy, Lizzie Williams, Edward
Lameyer, brigs Palos, Essex, barks Alice, Tarlton, John Caskie,
William Schroder, ships Lucretia, Charles H. Lunt, Vistula
Winged Hunter, Longwood, Albert Currier, Augusta. "While in
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 413
command of ship Augusta, Nov. 2, 1869, he rescued 50 persons
from a trading vessel (to Maulmain) ship was totally wrecked in a
typhoon. They had been four days without food or water. This
makes 73 persons Capt. Raynes has rescued the past two years.
The English government gave Capt. Raynes an elegant gold watch
and chain." (Newburyport Herald.)
CAPT. ELIPHALET E. HALE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, i860.
Died in Chicago, Dec. 28, 1901, aged 71 years.
Capt. Hale was in command of ships Epaminondas, Guiding
Star, Ocean Queen, Star of Peace, Charles H. Lunt, Charles Hill
and Albert Edward.
CAPT. BENJAMIN C. EMERTON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1861.
Died Dec. 22, 1904, aged 82 years, 11 months.
Capt. Emerton sailed in 55 vessels as boy, seaman, second and
first mates, and master, going into all parts of the world, and al-
most into every port. He was master of the following vessels,
ships George Peabody, Glendower, steamer Admiral Dupon, barks
Lemuel, Aurora, Sterling and brig John C. Noyes.
CAPT. SAMUEL B. PIKE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1861.
Died May 21, 1873, aged 50 years.
Capt. Pike commanded ships Octavius, Robert Hooper,
Oriental, Fanchon, Annie Kimball, (Newburyport Herald), bark
Martaban, flying English colors (name changed from Texan
Star), Capt. Samuel B. Pike of Newburyport with a cargo of rice
for Singapore was captured and burned by the confederate
steamer Alabama near Malacca. Dec. 24, 1863, Capt. Pike, Capt.
George L. Rogers and Mr. Samuel Stevens of Newburyport were
part owners ; they filed their claim for $52,992.25.
414 RHCORDS AND HISTORY OF
CAPT. JACOB B. BROWN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1861.
Died Feb. 13, 1881, aged 46 years, 6 months.
Capt. Brown was bora in Newburyport in 1834. When 23
years of age was in command of ship Hydra of Boston. After-
wards built bark A. W. Stevens and commanded her many years.
In 1868 built bark Agate and remained in charge until 1876, when
he retired from the sea and engaged in the insurance business in
Boston.
CAPT. ROBERT NOWELL
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1861.
Died at Liverpool, May 14, 1870, aged 51 years.
Capt. Nowell commanded ships General Nowell, Josiah L.
Hale, Anna M. Schmidt.
CAPT. SAMUEL G. P. MULLIKEN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1862.
Lost at sea. Age 46 years.
Capt. Mulliken commanded ships Blondel, Anna M. Schmidt,
General Nowell. He was lost and all hands in the China seas dur-
ing a typhoon, in 1867.
CAPT. DAVID P. PAGE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1862.
Died Jan. 23, 1874, aged 37 years, 6 months.
Capt. Page was acting master of the gunboat Wateree during
the war of the Rebellion, afterward in command of ship Sacra-
mento in East India trade, ship Josiah L. Hale and Inez in Cal-
cutta trade. He retired from the sea in 1869 and commenced busi-
ness with Charles H. Coffin as a ship broker.
/
CAPT. HENRY M. SPRING,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1862.
Died Aug. 10, 1902, aged 68 years, 7 months, 11 days.
Capt. Spring commanded barks Patmos, General Taylor, Liz-
zie H., and Annie Buck, ships Exporter and Reporter.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 415
CAPT. GEORGE L. WOODS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1862.
Died June 7, ic8i, aged 47 years, 10 months.
Superintendent of rooms 1881.
Capt. Woods commanded barks Helen Marr, Washington
Allston, ships Ceylon, Merrimac, Leonidas, Pactola, Polynasia.
CAPT. RAPHAEL A. BAYLEY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1862.
Died at Washington, D. C, Nov. 26, 1883, aged 52 years,
7 months.
Capt. Bayley commenced his sea life with Capt. Coffin in the
ship Flavio and made several voyages to the West Indies in com-
mand of schooners William L. Richardson and Grand Island. He
left the sea early in life and in 1868 obtained a situation in the
Treasury department at Washington and retained it until he died.
CAPT. GEORGE L. ROGERS,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1863.
Died March 28, 1872, aged 65 years.
Capt. Rogers commanded ships Beatrice, Taglion, Inez and
Rubicon.
CAPT. LAWRENCE W. BROWN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1863.
Died Dec. 10, 1903, aged 72 years, 9 months, 19 days.
Vice President from Nov. 28, 1895 to Nov. 26, 1896.
President from Nov. 26, 1896 to Nov. 19, 1903.
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown was born in Newburyport, Feb.
21, 1831. He was the son of John Pike and Mary Long Brown.
While yet a lad his father, who was master of a ship, sailed from
this port and neither he or the ship were heard from after. The
story of the life of Lawrence Brown is best told by himself in
sketches written during the later years of his life :
After finishing the course at the high school with Roger S.
Howard at the helm, I packed up by books and slate and found
41 6 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
employment in a bookstore on Market Square, but in a couple of
weeks gave up the book business and became a clerk in a ladies'
shoe store on Pleasant street. A short time there and I changed
into the dry goods trade, being employed by Eliphalet Griffin, and
afterwards by Moses Davenport on State street in the Phoenix
building. These clerkships bringing me an income of one dollar a
week and no more, a spirit within me was stirred up to try the sea,
a wish I always had from the time I was a small boy, and why
should I not ? My father and his six brothers all being ship masters
would naturally cause me to have a longing for the sea life
with its adventure and peril. Mr. Davenport and others built the
ship Ocean Queen at this time, and now was my opportunity.
Tired of measuring tape and calico, tired of handling silks and
muslins, it seemed to me my hands were more fitted to measure
tar and to handle ropes and sails. I wanted to get from the con-
fined shops into the fresh open air, and to sail over the seas that
the rest of the Browns had sailed, so mustering courage one day
I applied to my employer for a berth on board the Ocean Queen,
then about ready for sea. The place being refused me, I sought
an interview with our next door neighbor, Mr. Samuel Stevens,
part owner of the ship John Currier, then in Boston, ready for
sea. I was assigned a place on board this ship and on Nov. 27,
1848, we sailed away from Battery wharf in Boston, for New
Orleans, and on that date my seafaring life begun. The ship was
in ballast, and at this season of the year the weather was stormy
and the seas run high. One day the ship was on her beam ends.
Capt. Knapp called me to him and said, "This is just the way your
father was lost in his brig, the Harriet, with all hands."
I was so awfully seasick at the time that I did not care how
quickly we went, too, and leave me in the grave with my father.
We were 18 days on the passage and were moored at New Orleans
about five weeks, loading cotton for Liverpool. From Liverpool
we took 290 Irish passengers to Boston, and we had 20 days' pas-
sage. How that ship rolled, for she had railroad iron in the lower
hold. I made three voyages with Capt. Knapp in the John Cur-
rier and my desire to keep on with the profession I had chosen was
strengthened and increased.
In 1852 I went to San Francisco in the ship Meteor, with
Capt. Samuel Pike. I left the ship there and after some queer ad-
ventures in that port and varied occupations on shore there, I
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 417
took command of a government three-masted schooner and made
trips from San Francisco to the Penal Station at Corte Medara,
transporting prisoners. At this place there were from 350 to 600
prisoners, all wearing chains, usually with a ball attached. These
people were at evening marched on board of hulks, roused at 5
a. m., worked hard until sunset, making bricks, which we took to
San Francisco on our return trips. Our wages on the schooner
were seven dollars a day. We were never underway at night, and
always in the bay, so, on the whole, it was an easy way of going
to sea. The lives of many of the prisoners as related to me by
many of them were quite interesting. Among these men were
murderers, bank robbers, burglars, thieves of all kinds, many dif-
ferent countrymen, but not one Jew ; a hard lot, but each at some
time had been an "innocent little fellow."
After this experience I joined the ship Othello, but she was
taken from sea service and made a store ship, and I was placed in
charge of her. Trunks, chests, bags, boxes of every kind and de-
scription were on board, in keeping, while the owners fled to the
mines to dig for gold and to scatter all over the country, and in
every conceivable way to make a living and earn good wages. My
service on board this store ship was very comfortable and remun-
erative, but the climate disagreed with me, and the sea called me,
so I shipped with Capt. George Rogers and went to Callao, seven-
teen years later I returned to San Francisco to find the Othello
buried under what is now Market street. In making the streets
many vessels were left at their moorings and were filled in and
over. I made a number of voyages from the Chincha Islands to
Boston, or Hamburg, or Liverpool, returning to these islands for
more nirate. Freights were high and there was a steady demand
for ships to transport the fertilizer. At Mexlionnes we found but
three white people. Nitrate brought down from the Andes by
mules and donkeys, in sacks, each animal bringing 75 pounds. The
lofty mountain sides were covered with blooming cactus and they
sloped to the beach.
I came home in 1856 and worked in the shipyard all summer,
on the Free Trade and the Driver, and learned where the bolts are
driven and many things relating to the construction of a ship,
which proved very valuable knowledge to me in the years to come.
I shipped on the new ship Indes as chief officer with Capt.
Knapp in command. When she was ready for sea she was sold to
27-a
41 8 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
a Spanish Company and delivered at New Orleans. Capt. Knapp
gave up the ship there and I was promoted to the command of her
for a passage to Barcelona with Spanish passengers. The officers
and crew were made up from Spaniards, Italians, Greeks and
Frenchmen. The vessel was a good sailer and in 31 days we were
in Quarantine at Barcelona. The American flag was hauled down,
the name changed from Indies to Valparaiso, a Spanish flag floated
at the peak, a Spanish gentleman took command and with an ex-
ceedingly satisfactory settlement with the owners I left the city by
way of Marseilles and Paris and went to London and Liverpool,
where I joined the I. H. Boardman. In 1861 I took command of
the ship Sonora and made voyages in her to the Far East until
Christmas, 1863, when she was burned by Semmes of the privateer
Alabama out in the China Sea, and I and all my officers and men
were set adrift in open boats without food or water, compass or
chart. How we were rescued and taken to Calcutta is too long a
tale to be told here. My brother John was in Calcutta and my
credit was good, so I was able to take passage in steamer to
Southampton, touching at Malta and Gibralter and arriving in
England just in time to step on board a Hamburg steamer for
New York and I reached my home in Newburyport, on March 17,
1864, about cleaned out financially, having lost, when the ship was
burned, about all of my belongings. I took my wife and two
daughters and we boarded on a farm in Hampton Falls until the
last of August, when I went to New York and took steamer to
Antwerp, where I took command of the ship Elizabeth Cushing
and sailed for Akyab. I made three East India voyages in her,
and in 1868 I went across from New York in steamer to London
and took charge of the Elcano. I remained in command of this
ship until 1882, and made prosperous and interesting voyages to
Melbourne, Calcutta, China, San Francisco and ports in England,
and on the continent of Europe. The Elcano made several remark-
ably quick passages and carried valuable cargoes, and usually
would get a high freight. In July, 1879, while off the coast
of Africa, homeward bound with a load of cotton from Bombay to
Havre, one of her Majesty's troop ships came into collision with
her and she narrowly escaped being cut in two. The troop ship,
Euphrates, towed us 168 miles to Simon's Bay, where there was
a government station, and we were repaired in good shape, and, it
being the height of the Zulu war, we spent several days pleasantly
and profitably.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 419
We arrived in Havre in good time and left there in ballast
for New York. We had heavy easterly gales, so it was impossible
to discharge our pilot and we took him to New York, being only
16 1-2 days on the passage. We sent him back by steamer from
New York, and he arrived at his home just 24 days from the time
he left there. The Elcano was sold in 1882 and put under the
North German flag.
The Mary L. Cushing was launched in April, 1883, and went
to Japan and Calcutta on her first voyage. The last trip I made
in her Was from New York to Hongkong and back in 1887 and
1888. Since that time I have been a lon-shore-man.
By taking a chart and measuring it off, I have sailed in a
straight track nine hundred and fifty thousand miles, but reckon-
ing our courses taken during head winds and other adverse condi-
tions, it is nearer one million three hundred thousand miles. I
have crossed the equator seventy-nine times. Besides carrying
Irish, or Spanish, or Chinese passengers I have taken cargoes of
various kinds ; cocoa-nuts, coffee, cotton, coal, chalk, cows, sheep
and horses, fire crackers from China, sugar, salt, sulphur, linseed,
jute and jute butts and hides and castor oil from Calcutta, tin from
Singapore, old bones and rags from Bombay, indigo and spices,
tobacco and wines from Havre to New York, nitrate from Chincha
Islands, rice, deals, pianos, parlor organs, sewing machines tand
Yankee notions in variety from New York to Australia, and kero-
sene to India, China, Japan and Java.
I give a list of the vessels I have been connected with, their
rig and the names of the men who commanded them: 1848, ship
John Currier, Capt. Samuel Knapp ; 1850, ship Brutus, Capt. Rob-
ert Couch; 1850, ship W. A. Lincoln, Capt. W. Lincoln; 1850,
ship Napoleon, Capt. Hunt; 1851, barque, Hesper, Capt. O. Pills-
bury; 185 1, ship Switzerland, Capt. F. W. Carter; 1852, barque
Massachusetts, Capt. George Hansen; 1852, ship Meteor, Capt.
G. W. Pike; 1853, schooner Maripsa, Capt. Bennett; 1853, ship
Othello, Capt. L. W. Brown ; 1853, ship Beatrice, Capt. G. L. Rog-
ers ; 1854, ship Pauline, Capt. Colburn ; 1854, ship Victory, Capt.
R. G. Lane; 1855, ship Arab, Capt. Crosby; 1856, ship Muscon-
gus, Capt. F. W. Carter; 1857, ship Indus, Capt. L. W. Brown;
1857, ship I. H. Boardman, Capt. H. Cook; 1857, barque Oasis,
Capt. Leach; 1858, ship Caroline Tucker, Capt. Congdon; 1859,
ship Elizabeth Cushing, Capt. Pritchard; 1861, ship Sonora, Capt.
420 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
L. W. Brown ; 1864, ship Elizabeth dishing, Capt. L. W. Brown ;
1868 to 1882, ship Elcano, Capt. L. W. Brown ; 1884 to 1888, ship
Mary L. Gushing, Capt. L. W. Brown ; nineteen ships, three
barques, one three masted schooner.
A seafaring man has an attachment for his ship, if it is a fa-
vorite one, and especially if it has carried him safely through peril
and uncommon adventures, and the Elcano had certainly obeyed
her helm and carried us through many storms and contrary con-
ditions, so that I had an affection for her and was filled with a
melancholy sorrow when we left her decks for the last time, when
she passed into other hands, and when the German flag floated
from the peak.
The Mary L. Gushing was the last ship built by Mr. John Cur-
rier. She was very beautiful, as many can testify who went on
board of her before she went to sea, while she lay at Cushing
wharf. In every port she was the pride of the fleet.
I had made twenty-eight voyages during the years between
1848 and 1888, voyages full of interest and adventure, in storm
and sunshine, and the memory of the life is pleasant indeed, so
much so that I would willingly live it all over again.
"They that do down to the sea in ships and do business on
the great waters, these see the works of the Lord, His wonders
in the deep."
Capt. Brown soon after his retirement from the sea in 1888,
was chosen secretary and treasurer of the Newburyport Mutual
Fire Insurance Company, and he held the office until a few months
before he died, when his failing health compelled him to resign the
position. He was an overseer of the poor for several years, secre-
tary of the Oak Hill Cemetery Corporation, president of the Ma-
rine Society, and he held many positions of trust. He was a vigor-
ous, active, honorable man, much valued and respected in the com-
munity, and beloved by family and friends. His career had been
varied in incident, and he had a rare faculty of graphic description,
and many times his narratives were listened to with rapt attention
by members of clubs and societies in other cities, as well as in his
own dearly loved Newburyport.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 42I
DESCRIPTION BY CAPTAIN LAWRENCE W. BROWN OF THE
CAPTURE OF THE SHIP SONORA BY THE ALABAMA.
In March, 1863, we were on the berth in New York with the
ship Sonora of Newburyport, loading for Melbourne with a gen-
eral cargo ; finished loading and sailed ; had forty-five passengers.
On third day at sea, when about six hundred miles from New York,
discovered four stowaways, all soldiers, deserters from some regi-
ment or regiments that had been on the way "to the front," but
changed their minds and became tolerable good sailors. We ar-
rived in good time at our destined port. After a time there, we
took some cargo and two hundred and ninety Chinese passengers
on board and sailed for Hongkong ; made the passage in forty-six
days, and landed all hands in good order. On arriving we found
about twenty-five American ships at anchor, all snug with light
masts and yards sent down, crews discharged, and having the ap-
pearance of a siege. On making inquiries we found that a strange
steamer had put in her appearance in the China Seas, and the ship
Contest, laden with a valuable cargo, had been captured, plundered
and burned, said steamer being the Alabama, and said to be a Con-
federate States privateer ; therefore there had not been an Ameri-
can ship sail from Hongkong for several weeks, and ours the first
arrival for some time. As we were not on a voyage of discovery,
looking for privateers, and had a charter to proceed to Akyab,
British India, and load rice for Europe, we remained in port ten
days, and sailed for Aykab, touched at Singapore, and landed one
hundred Chinese passengers, among which were twenty girls. At
Singapore we fell in with a fleet of fifteen to twenty American
ships, all in the same predicament as the Hongkong fleet, paid off
white crew, and shipped colored men ; these men were part of the
cre.w of ship Contest, who were landed at Batavia, and sent up to
Singapore care of U. S. consul. In five or six days we were up
and at it again, sailed on through Malacca Straits toward Akyab.
On the 26th of December, in 3 degrees N. Lat. 103 degrees E.
Long., at 6 a. m., a steamer was in sight, coming up astern, steer-
ing for us. After a short time I saw she was flying a blue British
ensign, and had a large number of men on board, and I was quite
satisfied she was the Alabama, and we were to have a morning call
from the great brave (?) "Semmes," and expected a great circus
was to be our day's entertainment, — and it certainly was so.
27-b
422 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
When the steamer arrived quite near on our starboard beam,
some three or four boats were launched, filled with men and offi-
cers, and came alongside. We had made all preparations to re-
ceive them. An officer came up, and addressed me from the rail,, —
I was on the house, — asked me ship's name, where from, where
bound, and where she belonged. In a certain way he was an-
swered. He said we were a prize to the confederate steamer Ala-
bama, pointing to her, and he was the prize master. I asked for
his name, and he followed me. We had quite an interview, and a
goodly time was passed, he all of the time advising me to go at
once to "the steamer with my papers," etc.
In the meantime a gang were loading their boats with pro-
visions, with which we were well supplied, and best quality, a great
haul for them. Fourteen colored men and ten white boys were
placed in one of our boats, and set adrift, with notice or orders, to
keep away from the steamer. Two colored men and my two offi-
cers, Isaac N. Colby, first officer, and Bradford Swap, second offi-
cer, both Newburyport men, were then ordered into our quarter-
boat and told to pull to the steamer, which they did. A lot of
these steamer people were preparing to set fire to the ship ; others,
officers included, were plundering the ship's cabin, and with dis-
putes among these fellows, as to whom such and such a thing be-
longed, each one having claimed they saw it first, the whole affair
was of rather a ridiculous, undignified nature, it seeming to me
that they could not have any discipline on board the steamer from
which they pounced down upon us, and had we been captured in
the China Seas, or up through the Malacca Straits, by Chinese or
Malay pirates, we might have expected about the same treatment
as we were getting from these representatives of the Southern
Confederacy.
I had been told by this fellow Armstrong, the prize officer,
that the ship would be burned, and more than three times did he
tell me that I was getting myself in trouble by not going to the
steamer at once. However, after all of our people had gone, and
the torch all ready to apply to the kindlings, of tar, oil, etc., and
the officer told me to go with him in his boat to the steamer, which
I did. We were but a few moments in the boat before arriving at
the port side of the steamer, outside of three or four boats which
were being discharged of the spoils which the crowd of two hun-
dred and twenty-eight people had scooped so early in the morning.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 423
After getting on deck I noticed this chap had hauled down the
British ensign and hoisted what they called the Confederate naval
colors. To me the conditions of my surroundings looked like poor
discipline and an awful dirty vessel. Some ten or fifteen tons
of coal were lying on deck amidships, men standing about in
groups, and some lying about the decks. I did not walk aft, al-
though I saw and recognized the bold (?) navigator Semmes near
the m'izzen rigging, but passed forward on port side, looked at the
guns, bow-chaser, etc., thence aft on starboard side, no one having
spoken to me, only when a tall, shabbily dressed fellow spoke as
we were coming alongside, and said, "Captain, you can come up."
I merely answered by saying, "That is what I came here to do."
My boat was then with the two white and two black men towing
at his stern. Crossing the deck to port side well aft, a lanky, tall
cheaply dressed individual approached me, with an extended hand,
and said "Good morning, Captain Brown." I did not give him my
hand, "the hand of Douglas is his own." He looked at me, prob-
ably feeling insulted, and asked me if I would go down in his cabin.
I said I would be pleased to do so. He went below, I followed,
had a fine chance to kick him down stairs — but didn't. I was not
invited to be seated. He asked my ships's name. I threw my pa-
pers on the table, abaft of which he stood, while I stood facing him;
He gazed at me, put his glasses on, picked up the big envelope,
which contained register and crew list, opened the register, looked
at me, sort of sizing me up, and said "Sonora, she belongs to our
enemy. I'll burn her !" I answered, "I don't care if you do. She
is well insured in London." "Where are you from?" "New York."
"Where?" "New York, via Melbourne and Hongkong." "Where
are you bound?" "That is just what I would like to know. You
say you will burn her, and she was already to be set fire to when
I left her. How do you know what comes next ?" The fellow be-
came a little enraged, took a good view of me, and then asked
"Where I was bound?" "To Akyab." Other such questions just
as foolish were put to me, all answered in a most pleasing and
polite manner. "Of what does your cargo consist?" I could only
laugh at him, and answer, "Sand!" He moved from his position,
and yelled, "I want no comments, sir! what is your cargo?" I tried
to bristle up a little on a different tack, and not as pleasantly told
him "I was master of a ship myself an hour since, and always knew
how to treat my callers and my passengers," no comments had
424 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
been made but by myself, etc. He asked, "if I had any money
about me?" I then made up my mind he was either a confounded
fool or a consummate scoundrel. We were all young fellows, and
not easily scared. An officer, his clerk, was all this time sitting at
a table, no others in sight of us. I had a little more to say and
then awaited the result. He handed my papers to the clerk, and
left the cabin. Then this Semmes said to me, "Now, sir," — I took
a seat expecting my sentence, — "I'll give you your choice. You
may remain with me eight or ten days and at the end of that time
I will set you down wherever I happen to be, or you may go in
your boat." '*What about my crew?" "Those niggers are going
in their boat !" "My officers ?" "Are going with your niggers."
I said, "If those men and officers, that belong to me, and I to them,
are to be set adrift here in those boats, your ship is no place for
me, my duty is not here. I will go with them, and whatever they
may have to go through, I willingly will share it with them. They
have served me faithfully, and I will never desert from them." He
said, "You will have no charts." I answered, "I do not want any."
"No books or nautical instruments of any kind." I again said, "I
do not want them, they will be of no use to me here in an open
boat, and I will not leave my people under any circumstances. I
know my duty."
He left the cabin and went on deck. I looked about me, then
went on deck, and made remarks with two different officers. They
seemed to think they had conquered a fleet of men-of-war instead
of one poor innocent merchant ship. It seemed to me like an eagle
swooping down on a humming bird. My boat was searched, and a
quadrant belonging to the mate and other articles were passed up
on deck of this bold cruiser. I asked him if we could go now, as
it was not safe towing alongside his craft. He said, "You have no
water in your boat." I said, "Only that which leaked in." "Well,"
he said, "you hang on me, and I'll tow you towards your ship and
you can get some." She was then one mass of flames. I looked
at him and said, "I never sent a man where I could not go myself,
and that is no place for me." He then said, "You can clear out !
You are the most impertinent man I have dealt with." We cut his
line, and dropped away from him. There we were, five in the boat,
and it did seem to me as though I never was so far from home and
friends.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 425
We landed on the Island of Penang, on the afternoon of Dec.
31st. I gave the mates each one-third of the money I managed to
save, about $100. Then it was each for himself. The consul pro-
vided for the two sailors. The first mate got down to Singapore,
and home from there in a Boston bark, Pearl. Second mate went
to Rangood in a British ship, left her, and became a pilot, died
there some three years afterward, aged twenty-four, and weighed
three hundred and fifteen pounds, "the biggest man in Burmah."
Consuls have no authority to assist captains, they do not come
under the head of seamen. I proceeded in steamer Chabuda, Brit-
ish, to Maulmain, then Rangoon, and thence to Calcutta, where I
felt at home. The first white man I met was my brother ; we had
not met for seven years. 1 left Calcutta on the 22nd day of Janu-
ary, 1864, by way of Madras, Point de Galle, Suez, across to
Alexandria ; at Cairo called out and inspected the Pyramids ;
Malta, Gibraltar, and Southampton, only three hours at
Southampton, and then in the North German steamship Cimbria
to New York ; arrived in Newburyport on the afternoon of March
17th, 1864, having experienced a beautiful voyage, and met with
some peculiar people.
.CAPT. JAMES K. PRITCHARD,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1863.
Lost overboard Dec. 22, 1864, aged 31 years.
Capt. Pritchard was in command of ship Elcano when lost
overboard.
CAPT. RICHARD PETTINGELL,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1863.
Died June 23, 1903, aged 75 years, 11 months, 10 days.
Capt. Pettingell commanded ships George West, Panama,
Josiah L. Hale, George Griswold. "Ship George Griswold of New
York, commanded by Capt. Richard Pettingell (George L. Bray,
3rd officer), bound from Cardiff to Rio DeJanero, was captured
about 15 miles from Cape Frio by the privateer Georgie, June 8,
1863 ; the cargo belonging to neutrals, she was released on a ran-
som bond of $100,000."
426 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
CAPT. WILLIAM REED,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1863.
Died Oct. II, 1904, aged 82 years.
Capt. Reed sailed in 60 different vessels, 24 of which he was
master He made 100 voyages to the West Indies.
CAPT. WILLIAM H. SWAP,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1863.
Died at Manila, Oct. 25, 1882, aged 47 years, 6 months.
Capt. Swap commanded brig Athens, ships John N. Cushing
and Whittier.
CAPT. JAMES W. ELLIOTT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1863.
Died Nov. 3, 1894, aged 70 years.
Capt. Elliott was 40 years in his sea life, in many different
vessels, among them we find barks Panchita, Wessacumcon, Alli-
ote, Domingo, John W. Coffin, Masaral, Southerner, Arrow, S.
W. Porter, Tangier, brigs Carthage, General Worth, Palestine,
James Gray, Afton, ships Neptune, Euphrasia, Henry, Arab,
Augustin Heard, Pleides, Samasset, many of which he command-
ed. In 1879 he took command of the Life Saving Station on Plum
Island and retained his office until his death.
CAPT. EDMUND J. PIKE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1864.
Died at Philadelphia, Oct. 19, 1905, aged 67 years.
Capt. Pike was master of ships Castilian and Josiah L. Hale.
CAPT. WILLIAM H. BAYLEY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1865.
Secretary from Aug. 29, 1878.
Capt. Bayley commenced his sea life in ships Castilian
Switzerland, Volant, Gem of the Ocean, brig James Gray, the lat-
ter part was in trading to the West Indies, making many voyages.
CAPT. JOHN N. PRITCHARD,
PAST PRESIDENT.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 427
In his journal we find, while mate of the schooner Amelia
bound to Porto Rico, Thomas Pierce, master, March 28, 1858, ves-
sel scudding under double reef foresail, was boarded by a heavy
sea which took the captain overboard, impossible to save him, Lat.
40-05 N. Long. 56-10.
Friday, Oct. 20, 1865, arrived schooner Edward Lameyer,
Bayley, master, from Porto Rico. Sept. 23 to Sept. 26, Lat. 24,
Long. 67, experienced a hurricane that lasted three days, lost all
her sails and sprung both masts. Sept. 27, the first mate, Mr. Jo-
seph Pearson was killed, his body was brought home and buried
at Old Town Cemetery. After the hurricane was over, sails were
made of awnings, bed quilts, coffee bags and hammocks. Arrived
into tne bay on Friday and towed into the wharf by steamer. "In
1866 Capt. Bayley retired from the sea and in 1878 was elected
clerk of the overseers of the poor of Newburyport, and still re-
tains his office." — Newburyport Herald.
CAPT. JOHN N. PRITCHARD,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1865.
Vice President from Nov. 29, 1900 to Nov. 19, 1903.
President Nov. 29, 1903 to Nov. 16, 1905.
Capt. Pritchard commenced his sea life as a boy on board the
brig Massachusetts, ships Versailles, Scotland and Emerald, as
seaman on board ships Celestial, Contest, Carrington, as chief offi-
cer on board ships Volant, Josiah L. Hale, Keystone, Elizabeth
Cushing, master of brig Trinton, ships Gem of the Ocean, Mon-
tana, Lucy S., Wills, bark B. F. Hunt.
CAPT. JOSEPH A. JANVRIN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1866.
Capt. Janvrin was born in Newbury, Oct. 18, 1835. The fol-
lowing narrative was written by himself:
I made my first voyage from London to Calcutta in 1856. On
arriving at the pilot ground, a full rigged brig ran down towards
us, this proved to be a pilot boat, and in a short time the Cal-
cutta pilot came on board. He had with him two Saratoga trunks,
a native servant, and a leads man. He was a man of considerable
428 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
importance in those early days. He had an assured position and a
standing invitation to all social occasions in government circles.
He was affable, well informed, and a courteous genteman. We
were seven days getting to Garden Reach, and every morning he
would take his bath, his servant occupying the most of the time
in scrubbing him and giving him good massage treatment, getting
him ready for his clothes, which were immaculate, and which were
changed throughout twice a day. He did not pretend to do the
slightest thing, and he would not reach out three feet to get his
spyglass, but call for his servant to hand it to him ; even though he
was "laziness personified" still he must be an able man to hold a
pilot's certificate. The mud pilot took charge at Garden Reach and
we were shortly in the moorings. The spring tide came on the next
day, and the first Bore that struck our ship nearly sunk the ship
lying in the next mooring. She was loaded and ready to go into
the stream, and the rise was so great and sudden that it broke her
hauser pipes and several planks under it. In those days before
the East India Company took possession it was a common thing
to see a dozen dead bodies of both sexes, old and young, tangled
in the moorings, and it became such a nuisance that the authorities
ordered them all sunk with a heavy weight. The sacredness of the
Ganges is very dear to the natives, and if they are buried in its
waters they have obtained a passport to heaven. How often have
I seen the women who have lost their caste, come to its banks to
bathe and mark their faces with the mud as a protection from evil.
When we were in the stream read for sea, with two men at the
wheel on account of the strong current, we parted our chain, and
brought her up with the second anchor. We had placed the spare
iron stock anchor on the forecastle, and the ball on the end of the
stock was just caught on the rail. I stood with one foot on the
rail under the shank and the other on the cathead. The second
time I struck the ring of the anchor to bend the chain, the ball
slipped, and the anchor fell on my foot, breaking my instep, and
flattened my foot bursting my big toe in three places. They took
me into the cabin and laid me on the sofa and tied my foot up and
left me to attend to the anchor. They had just got' the anchor in
place ready to let go if needed, when the current caught her on the
bow, that knocked away the second anchor, and when the strain
came upon them, she parted both chains and we went down nearly
to Garden Reach and brought up side by side with a bark who
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 429
had parted from her anchors, and when we struck it seemed as
though she was all to pieces. Two doctors came on board and the
younger one wanted to amputate the foot, but my friend, as I call
him, Dr. Ferris, said no; I will save it, and as we were several
days making repairs and getting down to the place of leaving the
pilot, I had so far gained strength that I stood my watch with my
foot in a sling, and I was not off duty for a single watch. A boat-
swain had been appointed from among the crew to carry out my
orders. In January, 1858, I was promoted to the position of chief
mate of the ship Lyra, at the age of 22 years.
After three months at home I sailed for Melbourne with 46
steerage and nine cabin passengers. We had a man among
the crew, named Tom Connor. He was a villain, and Mr. Colby
and I had one of the worst of scraps with him off the Cape of
Good Hope, carried him to port in irons, thence to Callao and Rot-
terdam, thence to London and Hong Kong. When near the
equator saw two ships on fire and a steamer between them, and
just as night was coming on she began to fire up and shaped a
course for us. We had taken a strong south east trade wind. We
stood to the eastward with starboard tacks abroad, and we es-
caped him. This was without doubt the confederate steamer
Florida. Thence from Hong Kong to Singapore. We had not
been there long before the Alabama came in, received water and
coal in a neutral port, learned the news of the departure of Ameri-
can ships, and steamed down to the Strait of Malacca, and burned
three Amercan ships all lying to an anchor.
In February, 1870, I sailed from Boston in command of the
ship Lawrence Brown. On the 27th day (Sunday) we were run-
ning before a heavy northwest gale. After taking my bath I went
on deck with my dressing gown and slippers on (as the decks were
quite dry) and stood back to the wind with folded arms enjoying
the breeze I had been wishing for, and she was ploughng through
the water in fine style, with two men at the wheel. (Just a few
words about our wheelhouse to convey the proper idea of the force
of the sea that struck me. It was about 9 feet long 10 feet wide
and 7 feet high, and built of very heavy timber. It was fastened
to the deck with four heavy lashings through corresponding eye
bolts in the house and deck, through the center and over the rud-
der head and back to the taftrail and through fastened with four
strong brass screws, was the spindle of the wheel, about 4 inches
43°
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
in diameter). When suddenly the ship's stern settled down in the
trough of the sea, which to an experienced man is a sure indication
of danger. I turned, and at an angle of about 45 degrees, I saw
the sea ready to break, and in that sea I saw my death ; everything
I ever did passed before me like a panorama and instantaneous.
I was only about 15 feet from it, and it was comng a perfect del-
uge with all its force. I shouted to the men at the wheel to look
out for themselves and I made a jump for the life saving straps
near the bitts and on the deck. I felt them in my hands when
the sea struck me. That was the last I knew until later, when the
wheelhouse struck the after house, it stove it considerable, win-
dows were broken, devastation and wreckage reigned supreme.
The sea had broken away the steering apparatus and left the ship
unmanageable and she was rolling only as a ship can under such
circumstances. The decks were full of water. The second mate
had his jaw broken, The men at the wheel were washed over the
after house, and down on the main deck, badly bruised, but no
bones broken. I was missing and they found me hanging over
starboard side just forward of the mizzen rigging with my left foot
tangled in the small gear, the calf of my leg resting on the rail, my
body hanging head down and my broken leg and foot hanging be-
side my body. They pulled me in and when they sat me down on
deck the ship rolled to the windward, and the water washed around
the after house and into the gangway. It struck my leg and my
foot struck me in the face. This was the first I knew after the
sea struck me. They took me into the cabin, wading through a
foot of water, and put me into my wet berth, at 9 a. m. I laid there
in my wet clothes until about noon, at which time the ship had
been taken care of and they were ready to give me some attention.
The mate and steward took me out of my berth and put in a dry
mattrass, cut off my wet clothes and put on dry ones. After being
placed in my berth again, I took 120 drops of laudanum in two
does. My leg was swollen three times its natural size. As soon
as I felt the effect of the laudanum, the surgical operation of set-
ting the bone was performed according to the best knowledge and
skill known to the profession at that time and place, I being the
dictator in the case. The break, being a compound fracture of
the knee pan and thigh bone. As the mate would pull my leg out
I put the bones in place, and with the help of the steward arranged
the splints and bandages. I was placed in a box made for my con-
CAl'T. JOSEPH D. SMALL.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 43 1
venience and lashed to the cabin floor. The motion of the ship
would work the splints and bandages loose and a readjusting of
them was pecessary every day. After a few days my heel began
to pain me, and it resulted in a running sore that caused me most
excruciating pain, until we made a little place in the mattrass for
my heel to rest in. When I have heard of any one having a broken
leg, I always caution them to look after the heel. After steering
with relieving tackles for 21 days we arrived at Port Prayer, St.
Jago, Cape De Verdes. The acting vice American consul Anto-
nio Fortes, a highly educated Portuguese, and very dark, came on
board and made himself known to me as a master Mason. He
took me to his house, and words fail to describe the gentleness,
kindness and affection of that brother Mason towards me. He
slept by my side every night. He had two slaves in the room sub-
ject to my call, and it was his chief delight to watch me as a mother
would watch a child. When I came away I asked him for his bill.
He said he had no bill against me, and wished me Godspeed. This
was just like a Mason.
May 30, 1870, I sailed for Boston, arrived July 4th. After all
these years of privation and misfortune I decided to remain at
home. My lameness of tpday is the result of this accident. In
September, 1870, I moved to Lowell with my family, where I am
still residing.
CAPT. JOSEPH D. SMALL,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1867.
[SEA LIFE OF JOSEPH D. SMALL, WRITTEN BY HIMSELF.]
My first foreign voyage was in the brig Palestine of Salisbury,
in 1857, of which vessel my father was master. The voyage was
from Machias to Neuvitas, Cuba and back to New York. In No-
vember following I joined the new ship Elizabeth Cushing, sailing
Nov. 11, for Charlestown, S. C.,from there to .Liverpool, Eng., from
Liverpool to Calcutta and back to Boston, then to Mobile, Ala., to
Liverpool to Calcutta and back to Boston,, then in ship Crown
Point, bark Theodore Curtis, bark Ernestine Giddings of New
York as chief officers, then in bark International as master, be-
tween New York and Curacoa, W. I. Next in ship Winged
Hunter and brig Julia, which was wreck on Cape Lookout shoals,
N. C, the first and second mate and two seamen having died from
432 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
yellow fever, contracted while at Matansas, where we loaded part
of our cargo of sugar for New York at $9 per Hhd. I spent
nearly two years in St. Thomas, employed in a shipping house as
port captain. During my stay in St. Thomas I run the blockade
twice with cargoes of salt from Curacoa, in 1863. In 1868 I came
to Baltimore and entered the ship brokerage business and now
reside there.
CAPT. ROBERT B. PENDER,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1869.
Died at Baracoa, Nov. 1, 1890.
Capt. Pender commanded schooners Cecil, Victor, Emma V.,
Angelia, Samuel E. Fabins, John Gerard, Edward Burnett, Mary
Burnett and Mary Cleveland.
CAPT. ISAAC N. COLBY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1869.
Vice President Nov. 19, 1903 td Nov. 16, 1905.
President from Nov. 16, 1905.
Capt. Colby was born at Newburyport, Feb. 28, 1838, edu-
cated in the public schools of Newburyport, and at the age of 16
commenced his sea life in the bark General Taylor, Capt. Francis
A. Burton. After three voyages to Europe in her, joined the new
ship Blandina Dudley, Capt. Horace Atwood for a voyage to Cal-
cutta. Upon the completion of this voyage, shipped as second mate
of the ship Tamerlane of Wiscasset, then as chief mate of the bark
John Howe of Belfast. At the age of 20 joined the ship Lyra of
Newburyport as second mate and for 18 years was in the employ
of the Messrs. Gushing of Newburyport. Was mate of the ship
Sonora when she was captured by the confederate steamer Ala-
bama. (See narrative). After landing at Singapore, came home to
Boston in the bark Pearl, from thence to London in the ship
Magnolia and joined the ship Elizabeth Cushing at Antwerp. The
Sonora and Elizabeth Cushing were commanded by Capt. Law-
rence W. Brown. I succeeded Capt. Brown in command of the
Elizabeth Cushing in 1868 and in 1876 sold the ship in London to
German owners and came home to Newburyport. After a short
stay at home, contracted with George E. Currier, ship builder, to
CAPT. ISAAC N. COLBY,
PRESIDENT.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 433
build a bark of noo tons and named her H. G. Johnson, and fin-
ished my sea life in her, selling her in 1898 to Boston parties.
Since then I have resided in East Weymouth.
In March, 1863, the writer was chief mate of the American
ship Sonora. The Sonora was at Pier 10, East river, New York,
loading in the berths for Melbourne, Australia. At this time
the confederate cruiser Alabama was the terror of the seas, burn-
ing and bonding many fine ships. Just before sailing we heard of
the destruction of the clipper ship Jacob Bell, one of the superb tea
fleet of the Messrs Low. Her cargo was valued at a half a mil-
lion dollars. The loss of this fine ship made a great sensation, and
great efforts were made by our cruisers to find and capture her,
that is, the rebel cruiser, who did the mischief.
Our cargo was what we call general, consisting of a miscel-
laneous assortment of Yankee notions. We were in good sailing
trim as we had space reserved in the "between decks" for steerage
passengers, of whom we carried forty, we also had four cabin pas-
sengers. Most of these were leaving the country for fear of being
drafted into the army. They also were attracted by the prospect
of getting gold in the mines of Australia. We set sail March
27th. Our captain was a seaman and a gentleman, we were well
manned and well found in everything necessary for the voyage.
Nothing of particular interest occurred during the passage and
we arrived at Melbourne, July 2nd, all on board well, having seen
nothing of any confederate cruisers.
After discharging our cargo the ship was advertised to take
Chinese passengers for Hong Kong and was fitted up to accom-
modate 212. We carried no cargo, only ballast, wood, water and
provisions. The "between decks," the entire length of the ship,
was devoted to the passengers and several brick fire places with
huge iron pots set in masonry were built on deck for their use in
cooking. The passengers were divided into messes of eight. The
ship found wood and water, which was served out to them daily
by the third mate, and they furnished and cooked their own pro-
visions. They were a quiet, contented lot of men, being mostly
miners, who had been successful in their search for gold, and were
returning to their homes in China, rich enough for their simple
wants. With fair winds and pleasant weather we made rapid prog-
ress. Through Basses Straits, then up past the numerous island
groups in the South Pacific, we had only one day of calms. Just
28-a
434
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
previous to taking the N. E. trade winds. During the day we
caught a huge shark. The Chinamen were delighted at the pros-
pect of a feast, and as none of the ship's company cared to eat
shark, they divided it among themselves and left nothing but the
bones. In the afternoon they burnt josh sticks and prayer paper,
soliciting "Josh" for a breeze. Shortly after sunset a breeze
sprung up from the N. E., which freshened and continued the re-
mainder of the passage, the ship arriving at Hong Kong Nov. 8th.
1803. Before any of our passengers would go on shore they sent
for several pigs and fowl, roasted whole, which they offered to
"Josh" for a sacrifice in payment of their vows made during the
calm.
They were so well pleased with the ship and their treatment
that we found no difficulty in securing passengers and freight for
Singapore, while other vessels were lying in port, unable to se-
cure business, or afraid to venture out for fear of the Alabama,
who we heard, was somewhere in the China Seas pursuing her
burning and plundering career. We had a fair monsoon down
the China Sea and arrived at Singapore Dec. II. Here we heard
more of the Alabama and learned that another of Low's Clippers,
the Contest, had fallen a victim after a long chase, during which
the sailing ship held her own until the wind dying away, left her
an easy prey. The crew (colored men) had been brought to Singa-
pore, and as our crew left us here, and we were bound to Akyab,
in the Bay of Bengal, after a load of rice, we supplied their places
from the ex-crew of the Contest. The American ship Highlander
sailed in company bound for the same port. Quite a fleet of ships
remained, fearing capture and destruction.
For nine days we battled with head winds, working through
the Straits of Malacca, anchoring when the tide was against us.
It was hard work and we did not pass a particularly jolly Christ-
mas, but when he let go our anchor at night we little realized that
it was for the last time. The next morning we made ready at day-
light to get underway, heaving short and setting all square sail,
but the courses, it was calm and we waited for a breeze and for the
tide to turn. Far astern we could see a dark blue line which indi-
cated a change, there were several vessels moving in our direction
and among them a steamer. The Highlander was anchored not
far from us. The calm still continued, we could do nothing but
wait.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 435
I was standing on the forecastle with the crew, ready to lift
our anchor as soon as the breeze came near, when the boatswain,
a stalwart negro said excitedly "Good Lord ! That is the Ala-
bama !" The steamer had now approached us, so that we could
see her flag, her boats and other distinguishing marks. I walked
aft to the quarter deck and told Capt. Brown what the boatswain
had said. Taking his spy glass, after a long look, he remarked,
"I don't think it can be the Alabama, for she flies the English en-
sign and has white boats, and I have heard that the boats of the
rebel cruiser were painted black."
I called the boatswain and he said that the Alabama after the
capture of the Contest had taken her boats for her own use and
that these boats were white. But our doubts were soon set at
rest as the steamer ranged up alongside and stopped about fifty
yards off. We heard a whistle and down came the English flag,
and up went the stars and bars of the confederacy. At the same
time a boat was lowered and an officer with a crew of armed men
got into her and came alongside. The rope accommodation lad-
der was lowered and the officer came to the gangway. Before
stepping on board he said "What ship is this?" Right in front of
him in large gilt letters was our name. "Can't you read?" says
Capt. Brown. "Ahem ! yes, I see, the Sonora. Well, captain, you
are a prize to the confederate states steamer Alabama."
"Fortune of war ! Come on board," was the reply. We were
helpless to resist, and we could not run away, so we had to recon-
cile ourselves to the idea of leaving our beautiful ship, that had
been our home for nine months. What made the situation more
grievous was that the boarding officer and the entire boats crew
were Englishmen. We were at war with the Confederacy and
were prepared to accept the fortune of war, but it was a bitter pill
to swallow, when it was offered by British hands, manning a Brit-
ish ship armed by British guns. Turning to me he told me to let
go the anchor ! "We are at anchor !"
"Well, clew up the sails !" To this I made no reply. He
told me that it would be necessary to lower our two quarter boats,
and for all the crew to proceed alongside the Alabama, we could
each take a bag of clothing, but no trunks, no nautical instru-
ments, books or charts.
The officer remained on board. The captain went away in
the steamer's boat. I took the second mate and three men in the
436 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
small boat, and the remainder of the crew took the other boat,
and we all pulled to the steamer. The captain only was allowed
on board. Shortly afterwards he came to the side near the mizzen
rigging, where my boat was lying. He was accompanied by Capt.
Semmes and some officers. The boatswain was sent to overhaul
the captain's luggage which was under my care. The boatswain
was looking at some papers, when I heard Semmes say in a gruff
tone, "Never mind the papers ! see if there is any money there,"
but he found no money, for all the money the captain had, he had
intrusted to me and it was rolled up in my stockings and in the
bottom of my bag. Semmes then gave Capt. Brown his choice to
stay on board the Alabama and be landed when and where most
convenient, or to be set adrift with his men in the boats. He chose
the latter and coming into my boat, the painter was cast off and
we were left to ourselves, with no water or food of any kind. We
were ten miles from an inhospitable coast covered with jungle and
infested with tigers. We were eighty miles from the nearest port,
Malacca. The tide had turned and we were quite a distance from
the ship. The Alabama steamed off to the Highlander and same
result followed, that is the capture and the forced removal of the
crew. After a while we were joined by the boats of the Highlander,
one of our boats being still retained by the steamer. The tide
was running strong and we were getting farther and farther away
from the ships, still at anchor. Soon we saw the flames and smoke
arise and envelope the hulls, the sails and spars. It was a sad
sight, for we had got to love our ships, they were our homes, and
furnished us employment, and many were dependent on what we
could earn and save. All these thoughts and many more passed
through our minds while we were holding a council and deciding
what it was best to do. The two boats from the Highlander had food
and water. We dispatched two boats, with a little more than half
our number with orders to follow the coast until they reached the
Port of Malacca, and then to report to the U. S. consul. The re-
mainder, all white men, in the other boat, resolved to apply for
relief to one of the vessels in sight. The first we boarded was an
Arab bark, with no accommodations and bound to some small out
of the way port. The next was the French ship Puget, Capt.
Adam. There we were made welcome and our boat was hoisted
on board and every attention paid to our comfort.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 437
The Puget was bound to Madras. Capt. Adam said he would
take us there, or he would leave us near to Penang, one of the
Straits Settlements (so-called) under English rule. As the latter
was much the nearer, and a port at which steamers bound in each
direction always stopped for freight and passengers, we chose to
stop there. We passed several days on board the Puget, and one
morning we overtook a bark bound into Penang. The captain
having consented to take us as passengers, our boat was put into
the water, and we gave the Frenchmen three hearty cheers as we
pulled away for the bark. She was hove to, about three miles off,
we having made our communications with our signal flags. When
within a mile of her, to our surprise she filled away and with all
sail set, proceeded on her course. We could not overtake her in
spite of our utmost exertions, but after a while she again was hove
to, and we succeeded in getting alongside and on board. Then we
found that she was a native vessel owned by Chinamen at Singa-
pore and manned by Malay seamen with a half breed for a captain,
who spoke good English and who was a good fellow. He it was
who had consented to take us against the wishes of the Chinese
supercargo, and while we were on the way from the French ship,
he went to his room for something and the supercargo locked his
state room door and gave orders to the crew to fill the main top-
sail and proceed. The captain after a while broke out of the cabin
and caused the vessel to be hove to that we might get on board.
We made our boat fast astern, and seeing that there was a
great strain on the single rope which held her, the third mate of
Highlander attempted to make all safe by fastening to her another
and a larger rope. He swung himself off the taffrail to slide down
the boat's painter, and slid directly into the water. He sank at
once and we saw him no more. Five of us immediately lowered
the bark's quarter boat and searched for him in vain. He was a
young man, an American from the state of Maine.
We passed an uncomfortable night, and in the morning found
ourselves about fifteen miles from Penang. It was calm and the
sea breeze would not probably set in much before noon. The
captains were anxious to get in, and four of us volunteered to take
the small boat belonging to the bark and pull on shore. We did
so, getting to the wharf at n a. m., the bark coming in at 4 p.
m., with the remainder of our company. The American consul
now took charge of us, sending us to the hotel, and the next day
28-b
438 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
dispatching all but myself to Calcutta in the mail steamer. I
thought I would go back to Singapore, when the next steamer
left, hoping to get employment in one of the American ships which
I knew were in port. The merchants of Penang were very kind
to me during the three days I remained there. I received several
invitations to dine, one of which I accepted, and the hotel keeper
was told to furnish me with anything I required and they would
pay the bills. Every afternoon I was taken to drive about the
town and the suburbs. The horses, carriages and roads were all
good and I enjoyed myself very much, still it was not business and
I was glad to accept the offer of the captain of the British steamer
Aratoon Apcar, to take passage with him for Singapore. On our
way we passed over or near the spot where the Sonora burnt to the
water's edge and sunk at her anchors, and no doubt still remained.
We could not see her, of course, but I thought of the charred
wreck of the once lofty and proud ship that had carried the flag
over so many seas.
In a few days we arrived at Singapore, where I found the
portion of our crew that were in the first boat from the Sonora,
and whom we left alongside the Alabama. From one of them I
obtained the following statement :
Statement of Charles S., ordinary seaman of the ship Sonora.
After the boat containing the captain and officers was cast
adrift by the Alabama, we that were in the other boat were turned
back to the ship and then told to go on board for provisions and
water enough to last us to Singapore, or whatever port we chose
to enter. We were accompanied by two of the steamer's boats,
one carrying the officer who was to set the ship on fire, and the
other was to take off the officer who had first boarded us and who
had remained on board alone. The boats were filled with what
they chose to take of the ship's stores, and the contents of the
cabin, including the chronometers, all nautical instruments, clocks
and firearms. The two officers nearly came to blows in a dispute
over the captain's cane.
As our boat was small to hold so many, we were permitted to
launch the long boat and take the sail. We took beef, bread and
water and a compass, and were hurried away from the ship. The
Alabama's men took all the hams and preserved meats, and some
of them prepared the ship for burning by emptying the bed sacks
in the cabin and under the hatches, and saturating with oil, the
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 439
piles of combustibles. They all left shortly after we were sent
away, and immediately smoke and flames issued from the hatches.
In half an hour the ship was completely enveloped in flames, the
after part seeming to burn the fiercest. We remained quite near
the vessel until the masts fell, and during the day and until mid-
night we saw the light from the fire.
Whether she then sank or the fire was extinguished by the
heavy showers we had, I could not say, as we were then a long
way off, and at daylight nothing could be seen of the ship. Our
boats followed along the land until we reached Malacca, we hav-
ing fallen in with the other two boats from the Highlander and
Sonora, and kept in company with them. At Malacca we sold
the boats and with the money paid our passage to Singapore,
where the U. S. consul took charge of us and sent us to the Sail-
ors' Home.
It was here that I found all the late crew of the Sonora with
the exception of Capt. Brown and the second mate, who had gone
to Calcutta. The consul would have cared for me also, but my old
captain and friend, with whom I had sailed for the five previous
years, was there in the same old ship and he offered me a home
with him until I could do better. I remained there until the nth
of February, 1864, when I took passage for Boston in the Ameri-
can bark Pearl, arriving there the 20th of June, nearly 15 months
after leaving New York.
While at home I heard of the destruction of the Alabama by
the U. S. S. Kearsarge. There was every indication that the war
would soon be over and I gave up the purpose I had formed, to
enter the navy, and shortly afterwards went to sea with Capt.
Brown, who had obtained command of the fine ship Elizabeth
Cushing, of the same employ as the Sonora. Once again we sailed
over the well known track to the East Indies and back, but at this
time without the fear of the Alabama, and on our passage home
we spoke an American brig and learned that the war was over, and
that Lincoln had been assassinated. Good news and bad news;
never shall I forget the sensations I experienced at that time.
That was in 1865, now in 1891 I am still ploughing the old
ocean, off Capt Horn as I pen these lines.
440 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
CAPT. EBENEZER BRADBURY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1869.
Died March 13, 1885, aged 68 years.
[narrative written by his son.]
Ebenezer Bradbury was born Dec. 10, 1816. When 16 years
of age he shipped for five years on a whaling voyage, and was
gone about three years. He sailed from New Bedford most of his
service. May 6, 1841, he sailed from New Bedford in ship Susan,
Willard Howland, Jr., master, he being first mate.
His first voyage as master was in the barque Nade, which
sailed from New Bedford, Aug. 12, 1846, for a voyage to the
Indian Ocean. On her return when off Bermuda, Jan. 3, 1851,
she encountered a gale which caused her to leak so badly that
both pumps would not free her. She was towed in Bermuda, sank
and was condemned. His next command was a new ship the
Antarctic of New Bedford, which sailed from there May 3, 1852,
for Pacific Ocean. The first mate, Mr. Howland, was lost over-
board on the voyage out the same year, and another a Mr. Macy,
who joined the ship later, was lost when the ship was wrecked at
Chatham Islands, in March, 1853.
In 1862 he was cruising in the Atlantic looking for whales and
dodging confederate privateers. He was fortunate to escape cap-
ture, as many whalers were taken and burned. His vessel, the
brig Eshere, of Beverly, left Fayal, in company of another whaler,
the latter going one side of an island, was captured and burned,
while the Eshere going the other side of the island, escaped. His
last voyage was in the schooner Georgia of Newburyport, which
arrived home Sept. 28, 1869, after a cruise of ten months.
CAPT. JAMES F. TILTON,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1869.
Died at Portsmouth, N. H., Dec. 22, 1904, aged 66 years.
Capt. Tilton commanded ships Ceylon, Blandina Dudley,
Fearless, steamer Mattie Sargent and steamer Alice Howard.
CAPT. GEORGE T. AVERY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1870.
Died Sept. 20, 1884, aged 59 years, 7 months.
CAPT. GEORGE P. SPAULDING,
VICE PRESIDENT.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 44I
Capt. Avery was born in Castine, Me., in 1825 and in 1849
commanded schooner Eglantine in the West India trade between
Boston and Gonives, bark Springbok on ths coast of Africa,bark
Jupiter, ship Jamestown and ship Adams in the southern cotton
trade to Europe, afterwards in ship J. P. Whitney, which was
wrecked in a typhoon in the Indian Ocean, in ships Castine, Im-
porter, and Daniel I. Tenney in East India trade. In 1874 he re-
tired from the sea.
CAPT. GEORGE P. SPALDING,
; Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1870.
At the request of the Secretary of the Newburyport Marine
Society to give the history of my seafaring life for the benefit of
the society, I will do the best I can from memory.
In June, 1857, I shipped in the schooner Ellen Risper, Capt.
Chase, of Seabrook, for confish on the coast of Labrador, re-
turing in October of the same year.
On March 21st, 1858, started on my first voyage in the full-
rigged ship Clarissa Currier, 1100 tons burden, Capt. William
Bunting, bound for Melbourne, Australia. Arrived at Melbourne
about the middle of July, and on August 20th, sailed for Calcutta.
Arrived there about the tenth of October.
Sailed for Boston, Dec. 3rd. December 7th, in a heavy cy-
clone, carried away fore and main topmasts. Arrived in Boston,
March 1, 1859.
On December 3rd sailed from Newburyport in ship Glen-
dower, Capt. Ben. Emerton, for New York. Arrived there about
December 15th.
January 28, i860, sailed in ship Herald of the Morning, Capt.
Otis Baker, from New York to San Francisco, arriving there
about May 15. On June 21, sailed for Calleo and Chincha Islands,
arriving at Baltimore about the first of December, i860.
Jan. 4, 1861, sailed in ship Thatcher Magoune, Capt. Otis
Baker, from Boston to Frisco. Arrived about May 10th.
Sailed May 15th in ship Hare, Capt. Holmes, for New York,
arriving August 20th.
On October 2nd, sailed in same ship for Frisco, arriving Feb.
20th, 1861.
443 RBCORDS AND HISTORY OF
Went up into the country and worked in a saw mill until Jan-
uary, 1862.
February 2nd, 1862, sailed for Boston in ship Gleaner, Capt.
David Page. Arrived at Boston, May 20th.
On July 7th, 1862, sailed as second mate of bark A. W. Stev-
ens of Newburyport, Capt. Jacob Brown, for Cape Town and
Sydney, Australia. Arrived at Sydney about Dec. 2, 1862. There
we went in the coal trade from Newcastle, Australia to New Zea-
land ports until February, 1866, when we sailed for London, ar-
riving there in May. Arrived at Boston, Aug. 26th, 1866.
On November 20th sailed as second mate of ship Sacramento
of Boston, Capt. David Page.
Arrived March 2, 1867. Sailed for Liverpool, arrived about
the middle of July. Arrived at Boston, Nov. 10th.
On December 1, sailed for New York in ballast as first mate.
Captain Isaac Jackson. On December 2, off Cape Cod in a heavy
N. Y., gale shifted ballast. Ship on beam ends, cut away main
and mizzen masts. Taking foretop mast with the wreck off Fire
Island light. Cunard steamer Hecla from Liverpool coming
along ; blowing a hard gale from the N. W. She laid by us for five
days trying to tow us, but after using up all of the hawsers both
of us had, she was forced to leave us as she had 700 passengers
and her coal growing short. On the night of December 26, let go
both anchors in nine fathoms of water off Jersey shore, five miles
to the northward of Shark river. Blowing heavy gale from E. N.
E. with thick snow and very cold. On December 31, was taken
in tow. by the wrecking steamer. After slipping chains arrived
at New York on Jan. 1, 1868.
On Feb. 10, 1868, sailed as first mate of new ship Annahuac
of Boston, 1284 ton, Capt. Isaac Jackson. Bound to Frisco, ar-
riving there on June 15. Sailed on August 5 for Liverpool, ar-
rived there Nov. 15. Sailed for Boston on Jan. 5, 1869. Arrived
Feb 2.
Sailed as first mate of same ship, Capt. Lombard Cook for
Frisco on April 10. Arrived August 15.
Sailed about October 1, for Liverpool, arrived there on Jan.
15, 1870.
April 15, took command of ship Annahuac, Capt. Cook, going
home. Sailed for Calcutta, April 1st. Arrived July 5th. Sailed for
Boston Oct. 1st. Arrived June 25th.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 443
July 20th 1871, sailed for Penang. Arrived August 1st. August
1 2th sailed for Singapore. Arrived August 25th.
Sept. nth, sailed for Hong Kong. Arrived Sept. 22.
Nov. 28th, sailed for Manila in ballast. Arrived Nov. 13th.
Feb. 19th, 1872, sailed for New York. Arrived May 22nd.
July 29th, sailed for San Francisco. Arrived Dec. 4th.
Feb. 1st, 1873, sailed for Liverpool with a cargo of wheat.
On May nth 400 miles W. N. W. of Fayal in whirlwind carried
away foremast in eyes of the rigging. Main topmast in Cap.
Mizzen topmast and jib boom. Carried away all stanchions be-
tween decks. Sprung all three lower masts. Rigged jury masts
and arrived at Queenstown, May 23rd, for orders.
On May 26th sailed in tow for Liverpool. Arrived May 28th,
1873-
July 10th, gave up command of the ship Annahuac and re-
turned to Boston in the Cunard steamer Tarifia. Arrived in Bos-
ton August 2nd.
April, 1875, went to San Francisco by rail. Took command
of the ship Bridgewater, 1924 tons. Went to Puget Sound, loaded
cargo of spars. Falmouth for orders. Arrived at Falmouth
Feb. 4th, 1876.
Ordered to Port Glasgow on the Clyde, Scotland.
On June 15th, 1876, sailed with cargo of coal for Callao, Peru.
Made the run from 50 S. in the Atlantic to 50 S. in! the Pacific lit
8 days and 12 hours, with main royal set all the time.
Arrived at Callao, 82 days from Port Glasgow.
Went to Southern guano deposit, loaded. Falmouth for or-
ders.
In latitude 50 S. sprang aleak ; returned to Valparaiso for re-
pairs.
Sailed in July for Falmouth.
Dec. 8th, 1877, ordered to Hull, England. There the ship
was sold and I returned to New York on the White Star steamer
Adriatic. Arrived in New York, March, 1878.
In April, 1879, took command of the bark Lizzie H., from
Newburyport, 984 tons. Sailed with cargo of oil to Angiers for
orders.
Ordered to Surabuay, Java. Loaded sugar at a small place
called Cracksam for Boston. Arrived Jan. 10th, 1880.
Feb. 10th sailed for New York in tow, being n days on the
passage.
444 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
April 1 2th, 1880, sailed to Angier for orders with a cargo of
case oil at 42 cents per cast. Ordered to Singapore.
Chartered to New York L3660 lump sum. Sailed Sept. 25th.
Arrived at New York Dec. 7th, 1880, making the voyage in 8
months and 16 days.
Feb. 1 2th, 1 88 1, sailed with cargo of case oil to Angiers for
orders. On the third day out, while running in heavy N. W. gale,
was thrown on beam ends with lee rail under water. Was forced
to cut up cabin floor, and throw overboard cargo. After work-
ing for eleven hours succeeded in getting the bark before the
wind, and trimmed her up as far as we could. Arrived at Angier
and ordered to Surabuay, Java.
Arrived on May 14th, 92 days from New York. Sailed in
ballast for Singapore. Arrived July 2nd. Loaded for Boston ;
sailed July 28th, arrived on Oct. 28th, 90 days from Singapore.
Although the bark Lizzie H. was considered one of the slow-
est vessels out of Newburyport, I was never 100 days on the pas-
sage out or home. On the three voyages I made in her, we crossed
the equator on the outward passage in 26.25 an<^ 27 days from
port.
Nov. 12th, 1881 left Boston in the Cunard steamer Pavonia,
bound to Liverpool. There took command of the ship Reporter
of Newburyport, 1484 tons. Sailed Dec. nth, for Bombay with
cargo of coal. Jan. 1st, crossed the equator, twenty days from
port. Arrived at Bombay, April 14th, 1882. Loaded cargo of lin-
seed ; on May 16th sailed for New York. Off Cape of Good Hope,
had heavy gales from the westward for ten days ; disabled the star-
board pump. August 9th crossed the equator in Long. 41.52 W.,
75 days from Bombay. On August 22nd, Lat. 18 N. encountered
a fearful hurricane, with tremendous cross-sea. Ship sprung a
bad leak, and having but one pump, was forced to run the ship
under two lower topsails and reefed foresail. The donkey engine
working the one pump to full extent, and the water slowly gain-
ing. The strength of the gale lasting for four days, with very
heavy sea, washed everything movable from the deck, the ship
at one time having seven feet of water in the hold. On August
28th, took towboat off the Delaware, and towed to New York,
twenty days from the equator and ninety-six from Bombay;
eight months and seventeen days on the voyage.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 445
Oct. 28th, 1882, sailed for Shanghai, China, with case oil. On
Jan. 31, 1883, made Sandelwood Island, at the western entrance
of the Bombay passage. On Feb. 22, after a tedious time, passed
out into the Pacific ocean, between the Aion Islands and the north
coast of New Guinea. March 14th arrived at Shanghai, one hun-
dred and thirty seven days from New York.
The ship Gardner Colby sailed the same day from New York
with 253 days to Shanghai.
On April 15, 1882. sailed in ballast for Nagasakie, Japan. Ar-
rived April 22nd, loaded coal for Hong Kong. Arrived May 17th;
discharged cargo of coal. Took in 500 tons paving stone for bal-
last, and sailed on June 16th for Manila, arrving June 20th ; there
loaded cargo of sugar and hemp.
Sailed Aug. 27th for Liverpool, England. We had light airs
and calms for three days from the N. E., then took monsoons
strong and squally from W. S. W. Made Cape Dato on the north
coast of Borneo; from there to Angier light baffling N. W. and
northerly winds.
Sept. 29th, anchored at Angier to take in water, shortly after
the terrible erupton of Kratow, which destroyed the whole coast
from Java Head to Batavia. October 22nd, got under way on our
passage to Liverpool. Oct. 28th sighted the Island of Maritus.
Nov. 2nd, sighted Cape Recife, south coast of Africa. Nov. 14th,
made the Island of St. Helena ; went on shore ; posted letters, and
Nov. 24th crossed the equator, Long. 23.40 W.
Light baffling trades. On Dec. 16th made the Island of Flores.
From there to Fastnet Light, strong N. E. winds. December 31st,
made Tusker Light at 5 a. m., blowing hard gale from the S. W.
Ship under two lower topsails and foresails. At 4 p. m., made
Holly Head Light. Off Point Linas got pilot and tow boat, towed
to Liverpool. Arrived Jan. 1st, 1884, 122 days from Manila. On
Jan. 24th. 1884, I had the great misfortune to lose my dear wife,
who died of consumption, after being with me for four years at
sea, leaving me with one daughter 4 years of age. Wrote to my
owners to send master to relieve me, the ship being chartered to
Cardiff to load coal for Hong Kong. Capt. Robert Bailey was
sent to take the ship for the voyage.
On March 2nd, took passage on the Cunard streamer Ore-
gon to New York. Arrived on March 10th.
446 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
On March 26, 1886, sailed from New York in the ship Report-
er for Calcutta, India. May 18th made the Island of Tristan De
Cuna, ran down Eastern in 43 degrees south. Crossed the
equator 81.42 W. 90 days' out.
July 3rd took pilot as Eastern Light Ship, where we arrived
99 days from New York. Discharged cargo. Loaded for New
York.
Sept. 13, sailed for New York. Strong monsoons with heavy
squall from the S. W.
Sept. 17th, went through Duncan's Pass between the great
and little Andaman Islands.
Sept. 27th. crossed the equator in 92.24 E. 14 days from port.
Good S. E. trades in Indian ocean ; for 12 consecutive days
the ship averaged 228 1-2 miles per day.
Passed Cape Good Hope Nov. 2, 50 days out. On Nov. 23rd
stopped at St. Helena.
Arrived at New York Dec. 28. We were 91 days from Cal-
cutta, 39 days from Cape Good Hope.
On Feb. 23, 1887, sailed from New York, bound to Chitta-
gong, in the Bay of Bengal. Had light N. E. trades. Long. 25.20
W., 2j days from port.
On April 14th sighted the Island of Tristian De Cuna.
April 24th, passed the meridian of Cape Good Hope in Lat.
39.50 S., 57 days out.
A flying fish 18 1-2 inches long, was washed on board by a
heavy sea.
June 2nd, arrived at Chittagong, 99 days from New York.
On Nov. 13, 1887, sailed for New York on Dec. 30th. 47 days
out, spoke British ship Royal Sovereign, 76 days from Chittagong.
Jan. 2, 1888. made Tahe Mountain Cape Good Hope.
Jan. 13th, stopped at St. Helena and went ashore.
Crossed the equator, Long. 31.24 W., 74 days out.
On Feb. 14th, Lat. 29.39, North Long. 72.57 W., a little
daughter was born, to be named Ella Reporter Spalding.
Arrived at New York, Feb. 20, 99 days from Chittagong,
India.
April 9th, 1888, sailed from New York for Madras, India.
May 4th, crossed the equator 27.36 W., 25 days from port.
May 29th, running under short sail, shipped heavy sea,
washed man overboard, and smashed boats.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 447
In ten days the ship ran 2143 miles, average 213.3 per day.
June 20th, sighted Great Basses Light. Arrived at Madras June
2nd, 84 days from New York. July 28th, sailed for Colombo,
Island of Ceylon, in ballast, to load for New York, arriving at
Colomba after a long and tedious passage of 21 days. Sept. 15th,
sailed fof Point De Galle, to finish loading. Arrived Sept. 18th.
On Sept. 29th, sailed for New York. On Oct. 20th, sighted Island
Muhitus. Oct. 21, sighted Island of Reunion. Oct. 29th, Lat.
27.16 S., Long. 42.47 E., caught seventeen fine large mackerel. On
Nov. 1 2th, Cape Angullus lighthouse bore north, distance five
miles. Nov. 23rd, sighted the Island of St. Helena. Posted let-
ters and got fresh provisions. Had light S. E. trades. Dec. 6th,
crossed the equator in Long. 34.55 W. On Dec. 9th, took in our
studding sails for the first time since crossing 30 S. Had fresh N.
E. trades. Dec. 28th, arrived at New York, 90 days from Point De
Galle, making the voyage from New York to Madras, Colombo
and Point De Galle to New York in eight months and 19 days.
Monday, January 28th, 1889, sailed from New York bound to
Melbourne, Australia. Very light N. E. trades and well to the
southward. Crossed trie equator in Long. 37.30 W., 31 days from
port. Crossed the meridian of Greenwich in 44.30 S., 59 days from
port. Arrived at Melborune, April 25th, 87 days from New York,
having the run from the meridian of Greenwich to port in 28 days.
June 10th, sailed for Newcastle, New South Wales. Arrived
June 14th.
Sailed July 12th for Hong Kong, China. Arrived at Hong
Kong, August 28th, 48 days out.
Wednesday, November 20th, 1899, sailed for New York. On
Dec. 4th, at 7 p. m., struck on small coral patch, 17 feet of water
under the bow and 14 fathoms under main rigging. At 10 p. m.,
water was over the main hatch, the west coast of Borneo being
about eight miles distant. December 12th, were taken off
the wreck by a small English steamer from Batavia bound to
Singapore, where wte arrived on December 18th, and where we
landed crew. On January 2nd, 1890, took passage with wife and
child on White Star steamer Arabic for London by way of Suez
Canal, and arrived at London, Feb. 6th, 1890.
On February 8th, took passage on board Cunard steamer
Galya at Liverpool, bound to New York, where we arrived Feb.
1 8th, which ended my seafaring life of many years.
448 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
CAPT. ASA PEARL,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 24, 1870.
Died at Para, Nov. 14, 1873, aged 53 years.
Capt. Pearl commanded schooners Young American, Ellen,
Golden West, Ocean Pearl, Envoy, and John W. Dodge.
CAPT. WILLIAM I. BURNHAM,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1872.
Died Nov. 13, 1889, aged 55 years.
Capt. Burnham commanded ships Hellispont and Keystone.
CAPT. CHARLES A. CHASE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1872.
Lost at sea, February 1876.
Capt. Chase commanded ships Radient and Voyager.
CAPT. JOSEPH W. HUGHES,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1872.
Died Nov. II, 1899.
Capt. Hughes commanded schooners Race Horse, Peter
Mitchell and Edith L. Steere.
CAPT. GEORGE L. BRAY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1872.
Died Aug. 28, 1900, aged 56 years.
Vice President Nov. 26, 1896, to his death.
Capt. Bray was engaged for many years in ships Winona,
Volant, Eagle Wing, Josiah L. Hale, Ceylon and commanded
ships Nonantum, W. J. Rotch, Francis and W. A. Farnsworth.
CAPT. GEORGE W. KNIGHT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1872.
Died at Philadelphia, Oct. 25, 1882, aged 40 years, 10 months.
CAPT. GEORGE Iv. BRAY.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 449
Capt. Knight commanded schooner Lath Rich during the
war of 1862, carrying supplies on government account. Later
he commanded bark Lizzie H. Kimball, ships Keystone and
Simoda.
CAPT. THOMAS H. BOARDMAN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1873.
Resigned March 22, 1900.
Treasurer Nov. 24, 1887 to Nov. 28, 1895.
CAPT. CHARLES W. REED,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1873.
Died March 2, 1905, aged 60 years.
Superintendent of rooms 1904.
Capt. Reed commanded schooners Native American, Mary
Clark, Jordan L. Mott, Annie Bell, brigs Daniel Trowbridge and
Tula.
CAPT. STEPHEN P. BRAY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1873.
Died Nov. 17, 1897, aged 54 years, 6 months.
Treasurer Nov. 28, 1895 until his death.
Capt. Stephen P. Bray began his sea life as boy in ship Vo-
lant, Nov. 9, i860. December, 1862, in ship Winona as second
mate to Callao and Havre, May, 1864, to 1868, ship Pocahontas.
To East Indies home via Mauritus, Boston. 1868 to 1869 ship
Naples chief mate, To Java and back to Boston Nov. 1869, ship
Mindora, as chief mate to 1873, when he took command of same
ship till 1877, trading in this ship to the eastern ports. Ship Panay,
new, Sept. 1877, as master, nine full voyages. The tenth voyage
the ship was stranded on the Island of Simara, Philippine group,
and was condemned and sold. These ten voyages were to the
Eastern seas, China, Japan, and sugar and Wemp ports of the
Philippines. General cargoes outward, largely kerosene oil on
owner's account.
On retiring from sea 1890, he established himself in the coal
business in Newburyport, which business is now, 1906, carried on
by his widow and her son.
- 29-a
450 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
CAPT. FRED A. KEZAR,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1873.
[narrative written by himself.]
I commenced my sea life Dec. 13, 1856, on board ship Crown
Point of Newburyport, Capt. Henry Cook, sailing first to New
Orleans as boy. Then in ships T. B. Wales, Fear Not, Merrimack
and Castillian, as able seaman, sailing several times to Liverpool,
once to Melbourne, Australia, Manila, Batavia, New York and
London.
September, 1861, I sailed as second officer of the full rigged
brig Keying, Capt. Ladd of Newburyport, from London to New-
port, Wales, thence to St. Thomas, D. W. I., to Aux Cayes, St.
Domingo to Falmouth, Eng., Elsinore and Cronstadt. I then
came to Liverpool and sailed in the ship John H. Elliott for New
York. I then joined the bark Venice, as chief officer, Capt. Henry
Leman. We sailed from New London to Philadelphia, thence to
London, Eng., and Newport, Wales. When the vessel was load-
ed I was taken sick and was taken an shore, where I remained 18
weeks. I then came to New York as second officer of ship Eliza
McLaughlin, and joined bark Lenington as chief officer, and sailed
for Montevidio, Buenos Ayres, and New York. I then joined the
bark Good Return in Boston, Capt. George Balch of Newbury-
port, and sailed for Philadelphia and London, where she was sold.
I then joined the ship Benj. Bangs, of Boston, Capt. James Nor-
cross, and sailed for Akyab and Bremen. I then went by steamer
to London and Quebec and Boston. Then to Bermuda, Hundreds
and joined the ship St. Louis, as chief officer, Capt. Otis Ballard.
The ship belonged to Samuel Stevens, who also owned the Venice
and Good Return.
We loaded at different places on the James river, the first
cargo of tobacco shipped after the war. We made a very quick
passage, 17 days to Liverpool. After discharging our cargo we
stripped the ship of all her hemp rigging and fitted a full gang of
wire rigging on our own deck.
We then loaded a cargo of coal for Calcutta. I then left the
St. Louis and came home in the steamship City of Baltimore, and
joined the ship Kearsarge, belonging to Samuel Stevens. Loaded
and sailed for Melbourne, Australia. We arrived safe, discharged
our cargo, took on board 105 horses and sailed for Calcutta. We
CAPT. FRED A. KEZER.
THB MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 45 1
arrived safe, discharged our horses, (the whole number, 105, which
was never known before). Went into dry dock, stripped, caulked
and coppered. Then loaded a cargo of gunny cloth for New
Orleans. The bark Oriental, belonging to Mr. Stevens, was here
loading for Boston, and as Capt. Bartlett Pike, her master, health
was very poor, I came home in her to assist him. We arrived safe
in Boston, May 4, 1867, and after remaining at home a short time
sailed first officer of ship Elcano, Capt. Albert Cheever, of New-
buryport. We sailed from New York June 25th, for Liverpool,
with a general cargo. After discharging we put the ship into dry
dock, stripped, caulked and coppered. We then loaded a cargo of
salt and sailed for Calcutta, arriving Jan. 3, 1868. Discharged our
cargo and loaded a cargo of linseed, jute, hides and gunnies.
We had a very bad crew, only one American among them. May
3rd our Malay cook run amuck in the night, stabbing the second
officer on deck, and left him for dead, then came into my room
while I was asleep, stabbed me three times, killed the steward,
then stabbed Capt. Cheever twice. I then secured him in irons.
Six days after I put into Port Louis, Mauritius, for medical ad-
vice, and while there Nicholas Pike of Newburyport, our Ameri-
can consul, tried the Malay and found him guilty of murder, and
gave me orders to keep him confined as he then was, and if alive
on the arrival of the ship at London, to deliver him to the Ameri-
can consul, to be sent to the United States for a final trial. The
aoctors said Capt. Cheever could not live. We sailed again and
after a hard time off the Cape of Good Hope arrived at St. Helena.
Doctors from the flagship Hartford came on board and examined
Capt. Cheever, and they said we were doing all we could for him ;
that he could not live long, that the best thing for me to give him
was cod liver oil and brandy. We sailed again. The Malay died
and was buried at sea. Our American sailor, Charles Tillinghast,
of Providence, also died, and was buried at sea. At last, Sept. 8th
we arrived in London. I was fairly U9ed up, having been the only
officer on duty for four months. We took Capt. Cheever on shore.
Capt. Lawrence W. Brown came on and took charge.
After discharging we took out all of our lower masts, put in
new ones, put on a new suit of wire rigging, and sailed for
Cardiff, Wales. My wife went with me. When the ship was all
loaded with coals for Hong Kong, I left the ship, went to Liver-
pool and sailed first officer of ship Southern Eagle, for Boston,
arriving June 14th, 1869.
452 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
After remaining at home until November, Capt. Cheever hav-
ing partially recovered, he bought a part of the ship Calumet, and
I went his chief officer. We loaded in Boston, a general cargo for
Valparaiso, thence to Callao, Guanapee Islands for guano, then to
Callao, Hampton Roads and Baltimore, thence to Liverpool and
Boston. June 14th, 1871 we sailed for St. Johns, N. B., loaded a
cargo of deals for King Roads, Bristol Channel, for orders. July
8, 1871 Capt. Cheever gave up command to me and I sailed and
arrived safe in King Roads and was ordered to Sharpness Point.
After discharging went to Cardiff, Singapore, Calcutta, Mauritius,
Batavia, Passaroung, Java and Boston, arriving Jan. 19th, 1873.
After discharging we loaded a cargo for Calcutta and Capt.
Cheever wishing to make another voyage, I remained at home.
August 1st I went overland to San Francisco and awaited the
arrival of the bark Vesuvius, owned by T. J. Southard & Son, of
Richmond. Me. October 25th she arrived and I took charge,
discharged, chartered and loaded her and sailed Dec. 18th for
Liverpool. After a fine passage we arrived safe, discharged and
loaded a cargo of salt for Calcutta, April 30, 1874, my wife and
two sons joining me. A fine passage out, arriving safe, discharged
and loaded a general cargo for Boston. Sailing Oct. 5th, we had
a fearful cyclone in the Bay of Bengal and of five vessels leaving
Sand Heads together the Vesuvius was the only one to arrive at
her destination. We arrived in Boston, Feb. 22, 1875, discharged,
stripped, caulked, coppered, put in two new lower masts, chartered
and loaded her and gave up command and went to Richmond,
Me., to superintend building a new ship for Messrs. T. J. Southard
& Son.
May 17th we launched and christened the ship Charles Dennis
1 7 10 tons register. We rigged and fitted her out, and June 17th
towed her to St. Johns, N. B., loaded 666 standard of deals and
sailed July 12th for Liverpool, Cardiff, Callao and Lobos De Tier-
ra, loading 231 1 tons of guano, and sailing Aug. 30 for Antwerp,
Belgium. We arrived after losing an anchor and 90 fathom
chain in the Downs. Discharged, took in ballast, and sailed
March 8, 1877, for Baltimore. Off the coast we took the captain,
officers and crew from barkentne Annie H. Elliot, just as she was
sinking, and landed them in Baltimore.
We loaded a cargo of coals and sailed May 4, 1877 for San
Francisco. Arrived there safe, discharged, and loaded a full cargo
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 453
of wheat for Liverpool, arriving there safe. After discharging
went into dry dock, stripped, caulked, coppered, then ballasted and
sailed for New York, where we arrived June 26, 1878. I then left
the Charles Dennis and bought a master's interest in the bark
Lizzie H, of Newburyport. We sailed from New York, Sept. 1,
1879, with a cargo of wheat for Bordeaux, France. Arrived safe,
discharged, took in ballast, and sailed for New York, arriving
safe, Nov. 24th. I then sold my part of Lizzie H. to Capt. George
P. Spaulding and bought Capt. Brook's interest in ship Exporter.
December 1, 1879 chartered and loaded her with case oil, sheet-
ings, shirtings and shooks. Took my two daughters and sailed
Jan. 4, 1880 for Zanzibar, E. C. A., Bombay and Rotterdam. Lost
my second officer and two men overboard. Thence to Cardiff,
Bombay and Havre, New York. Thence to Calcutta, my cousin
fell from aloft and was killed, and New York. Then to Bombay,
Calcutta, New York. Then to Calcutta and New York. Then to
Rangoon, Calcutta and New York. Then to Batavia, Sourabaya,
Calcutta and New York.
I then remained at home from Nov. 8, 1887, until April, 1890,
Capt. John T.Howard making two voyages to Calcutta and return.
April 26, 1890, I sailed for Sydney, Australia, my son Charles go-
ing with me. We arrived safe, but were held up by a strike. After
a while we discharged, towed to New Castle, then were held up
again, losing five months in all. In December we loaded for
Honolulu, and when ready to sail were run into by a large steamer
losing our bowsprit and all attached. This meant another delay.
At last we sailed, arriving safe at Honolulu, discharged cargo,
took in ballast and sailed March 31, 1891, for Port Townsend, ar-
riving safe April 19th, chartered and towed to Vancouver, B. C,
to load a cargo of lumber for Melbourne. When loaded we sailed
June 7th. Everything went well until the night of August 20th,
when my son Charlie was killed and washed overboard, with
everything moveable. We also lost our bowsprit and all attached,
the ironwork giving away. We were obliged to go to Sydney for
repairs. After repairing we sailed and arrived safe in Melbourne,
discharged, chartered and loaded one of the largest cargoes of
wool ever carried to Boston, where we arrived safe, April, 1892.
Discharged, went into dry dock, stripped, caulked, coppered, and
loaded half a cargo of lumber, then towed to Portland, Me., where
we finished loading. Total cargo 1,040,000 feet. We sailed the
29-b
454 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
last of June for Buenos Ayres. After discharging our cargo we
laid up for a while hoping to get a cargo home, but none offered,
so we sailed for New York in ballast. Arriving safe after a very
hard passage.
As business was very dull we laid the ship up for a while and
tried very hard to sell her. April I, 1893, as we could not sell, I
chartered with Messrs. Arkell & Co., general cargo for Melbourne,
Australia. After loading we sailed April 26th and after a fine pas-
sage of 93 days, we arrived safe in Melbourne. After discharging,
business was very dull, every bank but one was in trouble, hun-
dreds of ships were laid up, so I towed the Exporter out into the
bay until there was a chance. After waiting nearly three months,
I laid the ship on the berth for London. We astonished every-
body. Tallow, hides and wool came forward, and in 20 days we
had a full cargo engaged. When loaded we sailed Dec. 18th, and
after a very fine passage arrived safe in London, April 19, 1894.
After discharging cargo, no business offered, so I paid everybody
off, put a ship keeper aboard and offered her for sale. People
came from all parts of the continent to look at her and made of-
fers for her. At last I accepted a Norwegian's offer, and sold the
good ship for the small sum of L1600. When she was built in
Newburyport she cost $96,000. When sold the Exporter was the
last full rigged ship owned in Newburyport.
CAPT. HENRY T. LUNT,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 27, 1873.
Died Oct. 30, 1881, aged 46 years, 11 months.
Capt. Lunt commanded schooners W. I. Eddie, Kossuth,
brigs Fanny, Lizzie H. Kimball, barks Paloma, Powhattan and
Neshutan.
CAPT. CHARLES H. COLBY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1874.
Superintendent of rooms 1905.
Capt. Colby sailed in the following list of vessels : Ship, North
Atlantic, O. R. ; bark A. W. Stevens, A. B. ; bark Roena, second
officer; bark Helen Mar, second officer; ship Nightingale, chief
officer ; ship Grace Darling, chief officer ; bark Celestia, chief offi-
CAPT. CHARLES H. COI.BY.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 455
cer; ship Castine, chief officer; bark Floris, chief officer; bark
Heroine, chief officer; bark Edwin, master; ship Prima Donna,
chief officer ; bark H. G. Johnson, chief officer ; bark Obed Baxter,
master, ship Agenon, master.
CAPT. JAMES H. STANLEY,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1874.
Lost at sea, Nov. 29, 1894, aged 51 years, 3 months.
Capt. Stanley commanded ships Winono, Big Bonanza, from
which ship he was washed overboard and lost, Nov. 29, 1894.
CAPT. RICHARD NEWELL,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1874.
[narrative written by himself.]
Capt. Newell was born in West Newbury, Mass., April 17,
1839, attended town schools till 1854, entered Putnam Free School
1854, graduated 1856. Shipped on ship Merrimack, Capt. Isaac
Bray, in June, 1856, sailed from Boston for St. Johns N. B., in
ballast, loaded there for Liverpool, England, thence for Calcutta,
with railroad material. Met heavy weather in Bay of Biscay,
sprung aleak and put back to Plymouth, England, where we dis-
charged cargo and went into dry dock, refitted and sailed again
for Calcutta on Feb. 22, 1857. Arrived at Calcutta after a 120
days passage without special incident. Found India in a state of
great excitement on account of the mutiny. After 5 months' delay
we sailed for Boston, where we arrived in February, 1858.
SaiPed from Boston for Melbourne, Australia, in March, un-
der Capt. Charles Thurston, shipping as third mate. Sailed in
ballast from Melbourne to Manila, thence to Batavia, where we
finished loading and sailed for New York. Loaded for Liverpool,
shipped as second officer. Arrived at Liverpool after a good pas-
sage and chartered for Calcutta. From Calcutta returned to Lon-
don, when I was promoted to first officer. Resigned position and
came home, passenger on the Allan Line steamship Anglo Saxon,
to Quebec, Canada.
After being at home some months shipped in ship Albert Ed-
ward, Capt. T. Mackinney, as first officer, but resigned before
456 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
she went to sea. Next shipped in the ship North Atlantic as sec-
ond officer, with Capt. George Grover. Went to Melbourne,
thence to Calcutta, and loaded for Boston. When off Cape Good
Hope bound home, we lost rudder and were 59 days drifting about
before we made Port Natal, when we secured a new rudder and
proceeded towards home, arriving in Boston, in December, 1862,
barely escaping capture by the confederate cruisers.
Next shipped in the new bark Albert Stevens, first officer
with Capt. J. B. Brown. Sailed from Boston in June 1863, for
Cape Town and Sydney, where we just escaped capture by the
confederate Shenandoah. Remained on the Australian coast in
the coal trade until 1865, when we loaded with wool for London,
thence to Boston.
Next I entered the P. M. steamship service as second officer,
joining the steamship Costa Rica, then fitting out for China, to
carry United States mails between Yokohama and Shanghai.
Transferred to steamship New York in same line as first officer.
Thence to command of S. S. Herman. Thence transferred to S.
S. New York. Appli'ed for leave of absence, which was granted,
and I came home for a few months. Returned and ordered to S.
S. Golden Age on the Shanghai line, as first officer, next trans-
ferred to command S. S. Ariel, where I remained until December,
1873, when I resigned and returned home, and ended my sea ser-
vice, since which time I have made my home in West Newbury,
on the old home farm.
CAPT. FRANK W. BROWN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 30, 1876.
Died July 6, 1894, aged 45 years, 11 months.
Capt. Brown was born in Newburyport, Aug. 4, 1848, and
made his first voyage to sea in 1864, when 16 years of age, in ship
Winged Hunter, Capt. Hinkley, to San Francisco and other ports
and returned to Boston after an absence of 19 months. He then
sailed with Capt. Joseph Janvrin in the ship Lawrence Brown,
absent 12 months. Capt. George Pierce then took the ship and
young Brown went in her to Australia and other ports, next
voyage with Capt. Titcomb in ship Mt. Washington, next as mate
of the ship America, 2100 tons, Capt. Chatfield, then in command
CAPT. OLIVER O. JONES.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 457
of bark Eva H. Fisk, visiting many ports. In 1878 went to Liver-
pool and took command of ship Eldorado and was absent 23
months. In 1880 Capt. Brown being out of health, remained at
home for two years. In 1882 he took command of the bark James
McCarthy, C. P. Knapp of Portland, owner, then laying in Phila-
delphia. On the passage from Philadelphia to Boston the bark
sprung aleak and unable to keep her free, they abandoned her and
the crew were taken off by a foreign vessel bound to a foreign
port. In one-half hour after they had left the bark, she sunk.
After several weeks they were transferred to a homeward bound
vessel, who landed them in New York. Capt. Brown having lost
everything when he abandoned the bark, and being out of health,
he retired from the sea.
CAPT. OLIVER O. JONES,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1877.
Treasurer Nov. 25, 1897.
Capt. Jones began his sea life 1849, in brig James Caskie of
Newburyport, his father in command, sailing from Boston with a
cargo of house frames, lumber, coal and bricks, was 190 days on
the passage. Touched at the Island of Juan Fernandez for water
and fresh vegetables one day and one night only. Arriving at San
Francisco found a dull market, as great crowds of people arriving
went for the mines, the only goal in those early days. The brig
was laid up and cargo peddled out, as space was made took in
storage, all sorts of merchandise, and continued as a "store ship"
till all cargo was disposed of at remunerative rate. Early in 1853
fitted out for Chincha Islands. Guano charters then just coming
to the front, the route to Callao then was not so well understood
as later. We were 139 days getting there, beating down in shore,
instead of going way out into the Pacific, through and across the
trade winds. Arrived at the islands safe and laid our chartered
time, 90 days. The trick of "buying time" of the island officials
was not in vogue at so early a date. Arrived at Norfolk, Va., 136
days from Callao, being obliged to go back to Callao from island
to get final clearance. In 1855 with many other Newburyport
boys joined the new ship George West, Capt. Robert Couch, fit-
ting out in Newburyport for New Orleans. Were a long time
waiting at New Orleans for cargo. Cotton speculation amongst
458 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
ship masters was very active. We boys who remained on the ship
had hard times rolling (in cotton and out of ship's hold) after
working hours. Finally we chartered full cargo for Liverpool,
shipped our drunken crew and went to sea. Arrived safe at Liver-
pool, then loaded part cargo of railroad iron and passengers for
Philadelphia. This ending of a hard voyage and poor food caused
me to "Kill the sailor" in 1856. But after being at home a while,
in 1857 I joined the new ship Blandina Dudley, Capt. Horace
Atwood, E. S. Moseley owner. Several Newburyport boys were
with me in ship, all of whom became masters and were members
of the Marine Society. We loaded ice and apples in Boston for
Calcutta. The crews worked discharging the cargo in Calcutta,
so we had ice and apples galore while there, apples being worth
25 cents apiece. Took a full East India cargo on board for Bos-
ton, where we arrived safe, 125 days on voyage home. Off Cape
Good Hope in a heavy westerly gale, at relief of midnight watch,
I was washed overboard by a heavy sea that rilled the ship's decks,
and was finally hauled on board by coils of rope thrown over my
head, the successful coil was thrown by Colby who soon after be-
came Capt. I. N. Colby; 1858 joined ship Tamerlain, Capt.
Holmes, at Wiscassett, Me., for Savannah, in ballast and hay.
Left ship there and came to Portsmouth in barque John Howe,
in mid-winter same year.
Early in 1859 joined the new ship just launched in Newbury-
port, Josiah L. Hale, Capt. Edward Graves, as seaman, voyage
New York, St. Johns, deals to Liverpool, thence with coal and
passengers (Frazier river boom) to San Francisco, where I was
promoted to third officer. Sailed from there to Honolulu, Hong
Kong, Manila and New York, promoted to second officer , sailed
again, St. Johns, Liverpool, Calcutta, to Mauritas, with cargo,
25,000 bags rice and doll Chinese account. While at Mauritas
rode out a cyclone next day after arrival. Sent down all spars to
bare lower masts and reinforced ground tackle all we could do,
the barometer being our sure guide. The gale lasted 24 hours,
then suddenly abated. A landsman cannot conceive the fury and
power of the winds of a cyclone, lifting the waters of the harbors
in great blocks, and blowing the waters for miles away. After the
storm a calm and fine weather, yet for all this, we landed all the
above cargo. Took in our ballast, rerigged our ship, and were on
our way back to Calcutta on the 21st day. The C. H. Lunt, an
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 459
American ship, was beside us under same kind of charter. Rivalry
was out motto. We both had Lascar crews. We arrived at moor-
ings in Calcutta, ballast out, ready for cargo three days before
the Charles H. Lunt. Arrived at Sangor, having been only three
months absent from Calcutta with a cash freight in gold $25,000,
then we loaded for New York, regular East India selections, at
lap rates, 1861. Again in same ship, second mate, to Liverpool,
San Francisco, Chincha Islands, Queenstown and Leith, with
guano, 1862, where I left the Josiah L. Hale, having passed many
happy hours, but with many hard day's work and very scanty food
supplies. Early in 1863 went to Bremenhaven and joined as mate
the Charles H. Lunt, Capt. F. Moore. Went to London for a
market, but ship was sold and I was adrift. Went to Liverpool
and took passage in Newburyport ship Merrimack, Capt. George
L. Woods, ready to sail for Boston.
As soon as we got out of the channel the ship began to leak
so badly that Capt. Woods had consultation with officers and crew,
deciding to put into Fayal, Western Islands. There we landed the
cargo, housed the passengers, some 200, on shore, and "hove the
ship down," caulked her all over, loaded cargo again and brought
the old copper home in ship, arriving in Boston, winter of 1863,
very severe cold, ice and snow.
While we were in Fayal the confederate privateer Shenandoah
came in, coaled and bought supplies. There were three other
American vessels (whalers) in port at the time, and the officers
and crew of the privateer being on shore threatened to burn us all
and would hover round outside till we came out, but we escaped.
My opinion of the entire crew from captain down was anything
but favorable, great for spirits, and they all were loaded during
their stay of some five or six days. They put to sea once for 24
hours, then came back again. The island is a delightful summer
resort, climate fine and the European residents very kind. The
Messrs. Dabney's American consul and merchants did all in their
power to make our enforced stay pleasant, and the passengers had
about the nicest and easiest time of their life.
In 1864 I joined the brig Fannie, Capt. Henry Lunt, as mate,
coasting trade, made several trips to the coal ports and New
Orleans, but found out I was not built to be a coaster, too hard
work and long hours. In early 1865 I joined as mate English
barque Waitemata, then building in Newburyport, Capt. James
460 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Cook. I was working in the Pritchard rigging gang at the time,
and is the only time in my sea life when I was earning two salaries,
$60 per month gold, as mate, and $2 per day in rigging gang. This
gang was one of the institutions of Newburyport, who rigged all
the vessels that were built here from the launching of ship to the
final departure to some port, every detail was intrusted to their
care and at times they furnished the men to take the ship round to
Boston or New York for loading. The business was handed down
in the family from grandfather to son and grandson till shipbuild-
ing received its final blow by the civil war. Nearly all of our New-
buryport ship masters, in early days have worked in their gang
while at home between voyages.
The Waitemata loaded in Boston, general cargo, for London.
During my stay in London of many months, I passed the English
board of trade and obtained a certificate enabling me to go as
chief officer in any English ship and to any part of the world. I
saw all kinds of life while there from the highest royal family to
the lowest, also got a great deal of real experience, which in later
life was very useful, but sight seeing had to end. My funds were
very low, so in 1865 joined the English ship Morning Glory, as
chief officer, Capt. R. Gilkey, owned by Messrs. George Croshaw &
Co., bankers, loading in London dock for Australia. From there
we went in ballast to Valparaiso seeking Chincha Islands guano,
to Falmouth, Hamburg and Birkinhead, where in 1866 I left the
ship. Then another long stay in London, during which time I
passed the board of trade, and obtained a master's certificate, sail
and steam, fitting me to command any English ship or steamer to
any part of the world. In those days it was a great feat for an
American seaman, with no money and but little influence to pass
such an ordeal. During my study days at Westminster Hall, Lon-
don, I saw and noted the many scions of England's "upper crust"
striving for certificates from third mates to masters, and 1 do not
wonder American ship masters stand on the top for all that adds
honor and ability to the calling. All I saw, some hundreds of them,
of all ages, were far from being trustworthy or capable. In my
class of 64 only three of us received the "G. G.," go and get it!
Yet titles were tacked on many of the men and money galore.
Sight seeing, rambles, making of friends used up most of my
time till the money problem again crept up against me and I was
forced to seek employment. In 1867 I joined as chief officer the
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 461
English ship Agra, Capt. Richard Evans, loading for New York,
general cargo of railroad iron, rags and chemicals. On passage
down the English channel we were run into by English bark
Elizabeth Jenkins right off Isle of Wight, dark stormy night. She
came into us head on and cut us down to the water's edge. We
managed to get into harbor at Isle of Wight and were patched up
and towed back to London. The other barque sank and only five
or six of her crew were saved on our decks. We lay in dry dock
several months repairing. The law suit in Admiralty Court lasted
over two years, finally our owners were successful. Mr. G. L. Bray
was in London at the time in a Newburyport ship near us, so we
had many pleasant hours and outings together as mates and
"tourists." Finally we arrived in New York in 1868. I sailed
again in same ship, Oswald Miller master, London, Cardiff.
Yokohoma, Hioya, Hong Kong, Manila to New York. Going
to Japan we took the untried route "Eastern Passage," and were
195 days to Yokohama. Again in Agra to Melbourne, Batavia,
Samarang, Somerbaya, Batavia, Niew Dippe, Amsterdam,
Falmouth to New York, where I left the ship in the latter part of
1870.
In 1871 I joined as mate the American ship Elizabeth Cush-
ing, Capt. I. N. Colby, and remained in her in same capacity till
late in 1876, during which time we visited nearly every port on
the globe. I passed the happiest hours of my sea life in the "dear
old ship" as such we held her in our hearts. I received may kind-
nesses and favors and had many pleasant outings in foreign ports.
I shall long remember my outing at the port of Mollendo, the sea-
port of Arequipa, where we carried coal and rails for the new
railroad then building in South America. I rode on the engine up
to Arequipa some sixty miles and some 2000 feet above the coast
line and spent the day and night there, the quaint old Spanish city,
with its churches, squares and funny people was a new phase of
life for me and such beautiful scenery, too. Then the coming
down the hill, so novel and to me so risky. I think few mates had
more good times than Capt. Colby gave me. The ship also was a
home for us all, but he also was a strict disciplinarian and busi-
ness was always before pleasure. Up to the city one day with him in
London v/e went on board the Ellen Munroe, 1500 tons new Amer-
ican ship, to call on the captain. Spent half hour there and when we
left her I was master of this fine vessel. Loaded for San Francisco,
462 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
v
where we arrived, 125 days passage. Loaded at Oakland with
wheat for Falmouth and Dublin. On passage to Europe we
touched at Pitcairn Island, to land some stores and other goods
for the islands, gifts from Californians to these most worthy peo-
ple. Had a very pleasant day with them. They came off in large
whaleboats before the ship was near the island. We found the
boats filled with intelligent looking men under orders of the gov-
ernor, whose only distinguishing article of dress was a pair of
American shoes on his feet. They furnished us with all kinds of
fruit and fowl in abundance, and the oranges were the finest I
ever saw.
The islanders have no police, jails, courts or judges, all diffi-
culties being adjusted on the "Golden Rule" plan, and very few
cases ever arise where law is administered. Governor chosen each
year. Their town is very clean and houses comfortable, a model
quiet community. A number of the people have been to west coast
of America and San Francisco. Trading vessels come to them
once a year from west coast for their produce and furnish them
with lumber, boats and our 19th century needfuls. They are per-
fectly satisfied with their lot, very religious and fairly good look-
ing, a great improvement on all sides from the "Bounty Muti-
neers" years and years ago. Nearly all are married. They in the
boats followed the ship as we left till dark, and their island home
was but a speck when we bid them good bye. I left the ship at
Dublin and came to New York in steamer City of Berlin.
In 1878 took command of ship Sarah Hignett, George H.
Warren & Co., owners, New York to Calcutta and back. New
York to San Francisco, where I bought a cargo of grain on own-
er's account, making on delivery at Liverpool, a freight of L5 4d
a ton. On passage towards Cape Horn, made another call at Pit-
cairn Island, a few hours only, and delivered them stores and
goods. A nice interview I had with former friends, they were pros-
pering finely. English nobility had sent them out a fine fully
equipped boat, very large and a new American organ had just been
sent to their church. Rounding Cape Horn I carried away my
rudder, so we improvised one on board and came to Liverpool
with it. Off the Western Islands had some terrific westerly gales,
which sadly tried my patent rudder. We came into Queenstown
all safe, where I took steam tow to Liverpool, with channel pilot.
In 1879 repaired rudder and took cargo of salt to Calcutta
CAPT. JOHN P. PIKE.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 463
and general India cargo back to New York, where ship was sold.
In 1880 went to Liverpool and took command of ship Big Bonan-
za, went to Hull, Eng., loaded railroad iron for San Francisco.
Loaded at Benecia wheat for Liverpool direct, 1881, loaded salt in
Binkenhead for Calcutta, back to New York, general cargo, where
I left the ship, latter port, 1882; 1883, bought with Kilby Page
the ship Samar, made several East India voyages and to Java
Islands, and in 1885 left sea life.
Took up the stevedore business on Lewis wharf, Boston, H.
W. Peabody & Co., line for Australia, for three years. Sold out
in 1889 and gave up ships for good and all. Was member of
common council 1890-1891.
CAPT. JOSEPH J. TAYLOR,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1877.
Disfranchised August 29, 1878.
CAPT. JOHN F. PIKE,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1877.
Died at Worcester, Sept. 15, 1904, aged 59 years, 5 months.
[history written by his widow.]
John Fellows, son of Susannah (Fellows) and Capt. Moses
Pike, was born on Ring's Island, Salisbury, Mass. The family
moved to Newburyport, Mass., in 1852, and he attended the public
schools of Newburyport.
To the boy in whose veins flowed the blood of generations of
seafaring ancestors, and who doubtless inherited from them an
imaginative and adventurous spirit, a sailor's life was the only at-
tractive calling.
He made his first voyage to California, around Cape Horn,
when about 16 years of age, with Capt. Samuel W. Pike, in the
ship Favorita, shipping as "boy." On this voyage the captain was
stricken with paralysis and many unusual duties devolved upon
the boy, who became nurse and companion to the captain.
He later served as third, second and first officer with his
father, Capt. Moses Pike, in the ship Saint Albans, and afterwards
as first officer with his father in the ship Archer. In 1876 he com-
464 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
manded the ship Majestic, owned by Thayer & Lincoln of Boston,
on a voyage from Liverpool to Calcutta. In 1878 he sailed as
master of the ship Hamilton to Australia. April, 1879, he com-
manded the barque John Shepard, owned by Shepard & Nor-
well of Boston, sailing from New York to Saigon Bangkok and
Singapore.
When in Calcutta at one time he contracted dysentery from
which he suffered several years, remaining ashore for long periods
on account of ill health.
Like most mariners, Capt. Pike witnessed strange scenes on
land and sea and passed through many experiences. While an
officer with Capt. Moses Pike he assisted under the captain's order
in the rescue of the crew of the Ramsgate life boat adrift and
disabled in the English channel. This rescue was accomplished
with great difficulty under most trying circumstances. His adven-
tures which he often reviewed, included the subjection of mutinous
crews, the perils of hurricanes and cyclones in port and on the
deep, and in the year 1880 the successful navigating of his ship,
disabled by a broken rudder from the Cape of Good Hope to her
pier in New York.
While ?:; command of the Majestic he encountered in the Bay
of Bengal a terrific hurricane, recorded as one of the most severe
of tropical storms, in which the loss of life and shipping was ap-
palling. While at anchor in Calcutta he passed through the awful
experience of the cyclone of 1876, described by the Encyclopedia
Britanica as a storm ot terrific violence, the wind attaining a
velocity which destroyed the anometers.
As a man Capt. Pike was of sterling character and genial na-
ture, winning many friends, to whom he was always loyal. He
was of a poetic temperament and delighted in the songs of the
sea. He had an intense love for the ocean and all that pertained
to it, and during his twenty or more years' residence inland, lost
not a bit of his passion for the sea.
His dignified and courtly bearing together with his benevo-
lent countenance, as his friends described it, led him often to be
mistaken for a clergyman. The reverent salutation of street ur-
chins, the apologetic confidence of a drunken sailor, mistaking
him for a "Holy Joe," the officious deference of an usher who in-
vited him to a seat on the platform, the chiding voice of one law-
less sinner to another for unbecoming conduct in the presence of
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 465
the "Parson," were experiences he keenly relished and often re-
lated for the amusement of his friends.
At the time of his death, which occurred at his home in Wor-
cester, Mass., Sept. 15th, 1904, many tributes were paid both in
public and in private, to his kindness of heart, his loyal friendship,
and his integrity.
CAPT. MOSES PIKE, JR.,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1877.
Died Dec. 18, 1882, aged 35 years.
Capt. Pike commanded ships Detroit, Archer, Favorite, and
St. Albans.
CAPT. JOHN R. HOWARD,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 29, 1877.
Died at Deer Isle, Me., July 1, 1904, aged 60 years, 2 months.
Capt. Howard's sea faring life commenced as a seaman in
schooners Mary Clark Lola Montez, Angelia, Edward Lee, Cata-
lia, Hannah Grant, and Grand Island; mate, schooners Huntress,
Halo, Pilot's Bride, Commerce, Arctic and Aurora; master
schooners Catalina, Eastern Light, Martha T. Pike, George W.
Brown, S. C. Noyes, Cecil, Ocean Bird, Roxanna; mate, barken-
tine Portland and Oregonia, ships Saphire, War Hawk, James
Cheston, John Currier; master, bark Skaget, Daniel Hadley,
Midas, Will W. Chase, Olden Besse, Farris S Thompson, steamers
Tocantines, Torpajos, General Padillo, General Bartlett, Caran-
ado, Katie and Humbolt.
Capt. Howard visited the ports in North and South America,
West Indies, East Indies, Alaska, Europe, Siberia, Japan, China
and Sandwich Islands. The latter part of his life he lost the full
use of his eyes and retired to the old homestead at Deer Isle, Me.
CAPT. JOHN HUBBARD,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1878.
Drowned at Brunswick, Ga., May 25, 1879, aged 42.
Capt. Hubbard was master of ships Mercury and Sonora. In
going ashore in Brunswick from the Roads his boat was capsized
and he was drowned. His body was recovered and brought to
30-a
466 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Newburyport, and his funeral services were held in the Old Town
church. His remains were laid away in the Old Town Cemetery,
the Marine Society attending his funeral.
CAPT. ROBERT BAYLEY, JR.,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 2j, 1879.
Died at Maiden, May 12, 1901, aged 51 years.
Capt. Bayley commanded ship Victoria, which was lost off
Cape Horn and ship Montana, which was burnt off the Islands of
St. Paul, with a cargo of ice for Calcutta.
CAPT. CHARLES W. BROWN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1880.
Capt. Brown commenced his sea life in the barque Agate in
1875, took command of her in 1879 and remained master of her
until 1885, when he retired from the sea and engaged in the manu-
facture of glass and now occupies the office of vice president of
the Pittsburg Plate Glass Co., of Pittsburg, President of the Mich-
igan Chemical Co., Bay City, Michigan, and secretary Columbia
Chemical Co., Barberton, Ohio.
CAPT. FRANK A. JANVRIN,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 25, 1880.
Died Nov. 5, 1904, aged 70 years, 2 months, 19 days.
Capt. Janvrin was born in Newburyport, August, 1834. He
descended from a family who had passed most of their life upon
the sea and at the early age of 12 he commenced his sea life and
was considered one of the smartest fishermen from the port of
Newburyport. In 1857 he went as master in schooner Elcano, and
was master of the following schooners, Hannah Grant, Fannie,
Susan West, Ella Johnson, Lottie E. Cook, G. W. Brown, Mary
Ellen, Harp, Edmund Burke, Ellen, Crownpoint, Hiawatha, Com-
merce, Theresa, Brigantine, and Norah. He retired from the sea,
being out of health in 1885. For 26 years he sailed as master in
the employ of D. & I. Hale, Isaac H. Boardman, and Edward Bur-
rell, merchants of Newburyport.
CAPT. JOHN T. HOWARD.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OK NEWBURYPORT 467
CAPT. JOHN T. HOWARD,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 26, 1885.
[narrative written by himself.]
I commenced my sea life in the summer of 1861, on board
of the pilot boats America and Sea Ranger.
1862, shipped as cook on board the schooner Mary Clark,
Capt. Thomas Howard, coasting.
1863, 1864, went coasting in the schooners Hannah Grant,
Capt. George Howard of Newburyport; Hiawatha, Capt. George
Dinsey of Newburyport ; Mary Ella, of York, Capt. Tapley ; brig
Daniel Boon, of Portland, Capt. Tucker ; and the schooner Ed-
ward Lameyer of Newburyport, Capt. William Bayley.
In the year 1865 I sailed in the ship Tennyson, Capt. Alexan-
der Graves, we went to Bangor and from there to Liverpool, Eng.
In Liverpool Capt. Edward Graves took command. From Liver-
pool we sailed for Calcutta, Bombay, Point DeGall, Penang, Sin-
gapore, Hong Kong and from there we went to San Francisco,
with 565 Chinese passengers. From San Francisco we went to
Liverpool, from there to Calcutta and back again to Liverpool.
Left the Tennyson in Liverpool and came home in the Allan Line
steamer Hibernian.
In January, 1868, shipped on board of the new ship Anahnac,
Capt. Jackson, for San Francisco, in San Francisco, Capt. Jackson
left and Capt. Pennell took command; we went to Liverpool and
back to Boston. There we loaded for San Francisco, this time
Capt. Cook, I was second mate. From San Francisco, we went to
Liverpool ; Capt. Cook was taken sick in Liverpool and left. Capt.
Spaulding took command and I was made mate. We went to
Calcutta, and back to Boston. In Boston we loaded for Bombay
with ice, from there to Penang, Singapore, Hong Kong and down
to Manila and loaded for New York.
We loaded in New York for San Francisco again and went
to Liverpool, Capt. Spaulding left, and Capt. Matthews took com-
mand. From Liverpool, we sailed for Boston. That was the last
of 1873.
Early in 1874, sailed as mate of the ship Fearless, from New
York to China, Japan and down to Hollo, and back to New York,
Capt. Andrew Smith in command.
468 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
From 1875 to 1880, was mate of the ship Winona, Capt.
George Bray, from Boston to St. John, N. B., then to Liverpool.
From there we made several voyages to the East Indies and
China, and back to ports in Europe and the United States.
1880, I took command of the brig John C. Noyes, was in her
two years, from Boston to several ports in South America, South
Africa and the West Indies, back to the United States.
1883, I took command of the bark Lizzie H., continued until
1889, went several voyages to Calcutta, Madras, Singapore, Zan-
zibar and to the Island of Madagascar.
In the year 1889, 1890 was master of the ship Exporter, in the
Calcutta trade.
1890 to 1893, was master of the bark Benjamin F. Hunt.
Went from Boston to San Francisco overland to join her. From
San Francisco we went to Melbourne, Australia, then back to
Boston with wool. From Boston to New York. From New York
to Hong Kong, thence to Calais, Peru, back across the Pacific to
Manila and loaded for Boston.
CAPT. HENRY MARSHALL,
Joined the Marine Society Nov. 28, 1889.
Lost at sea, 1890.
Capt. Marshall was lost on his first voyage as master. Ship
and crew were never heard from after leaving New York. Capt.
Marshall was the last ship master to join the Marine Society.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 469
MUSEUM,
Previous to 185 1, the time when the Marine Society purchased
the building which they now own, and occupy, the society had no
home, or place in which to care for any papers or gifts, which
might be donated to them, meeting, as they did, in a room, hired
for the simple purpose of holding their meetings.
In 1851 a room was fitted up for the purpose of a museum,
and gifts from various sources, most of which have been brought
from foreign lands by the members, and gifts from friends have
been received, until at the present time, the room is packed full
of curiosities and ancient articles, among which may be found the
following :
By Hon. H. W. Kinsman:
65 sheets of charts of U. S. coast survey.
By Hon. James H. Duncan :
1 volume, reports on coast survey ; 1 volume, reports on light
houses ; 1 volume, map, showing progress in coast survey.
By Mr. Merrill:
1 old Arithmetic, 1654.
By Capt. Giles P. Stone:
1 map of Merrimac river copied from the original.
By James Adams, Esq., consul at Singapore:
Pair of argus eyed Pheasants.
By Capt. Isaac A. Bray:
Model of Chinese junks; model of Malay passe boat; bill of
Tonchon; specimen of Gutta Percha; Antelope horns.
By Capt. R. H. Pearson:
12 varieties of Coral, India seas ; 60 figures, illustrating walks
and costumes of Bengalese; 2 heathen Gods or idols, taken
30-b
470 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
by the British army at Rangoon; bottle containing Sucker
fish; bottle containing Centipedes; bottle containing large
specimen of Terredo, or ship worm.
By Capt. Isaac A. Bray :
i saw of Saw fish.
By Capt. Benjamin Pierce :
Sword of Sword fish, and jaws of Porpoise.
By Lewis Johnson :
Fancy battle axe, from South Sea Islands.
By Capt. Thomas Pritchard :
Lot of coins ; specimens of copper ore ; fancy specimens of
French pottery.
By Capt. Micajah Lunt :
Specimen of Tappa, or Sandwich Island cloth ; Indian spear ;
Indian paddle.
By Capt. Oliver O. Jones :
Bottle of ammonia as found in Guano ; specimen of California
Cinnabar ; specimen of California ore.
By Capt. George Coffin :
Specimen of scarfs, made by natives in Pacific ocean.
By M. D. Randall :
Specimen of Oriental slippers.
By Capt. N. S. Osgood :
Case containing ioo varieties of shells.
By Capt. William Graves :
Case containing 90 shells.
By Rufus Wills:
Buffalo horns.
By Capt. James Cook :
Blossom of sugar cane.
By N. S. Osgood :
Specimens of native fish hooks from Pacific ocean.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 47 1
By J- J- Johnson:
Native sword from Columbia river.
By Capt. N. S. Osgood :
Indian paddle.
By George Noyes:
Specimen of gold bearing quartz from Sonora, taken from
a mine 80 feet below the surface.
By Capt. Shoof:
1 short sword from Mediterranean; fish head; South side of
St. Domingo.
By Capt. Henry Cook:
Hindoo Gods.
By Capt. Henry Cook.
Cane made from Betel Nut.
/
By Capt. John Simpson:
Walrus teeth.
By Capt. George Lunt:
Specimen of eggs found in Guiana.
By James Adams :
Chinese war junk.
By Philip Johnson :
Shot and shell; revolutionary relics.
By Capt. C. B. Stevens :
Pair of African sandals.
By Capt. Isaac Bray:
Basket bird's nest ; East India Oriole nest ; umbrella, sandals.
By W. H. Ladd:
Saw fish from Gulf of Mexico.
By Capt. C. B. Stevens :
Sandals from Africa.
By Capt. Oliver O. Jones :
Specimens of red Hematite; nucasions oxide of iron.
ifl2 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
By Capt. John Simpson:
2 Walrus teeth.
By Capt. George Lunt:
Hubble bubble ; Pelican's bill and pouch.
By Capt. Micajah Lunt Jr. :
Penguin's skin.
By W. H. Osgood:
Rattle snake's skin taken at Baton Rouge.
By Capt. C. B. Stevens:
i Pair Horns.
By Capt. Pritchard:
2 Coral vases; edible bird's nest; stones from Elephanta Cave,
Bombay ; copper ore from Japan ; copper ore from Borneo.
By Capt. John Simpson :
Elephant's teeth; Porpoise jaw; stem of kelp, 55 feet long.
By Capt. Pritchard:
Specimen Barnacle, from coast of Chilla; specimen nut-
megs and pepper.
By Capt. Simpson :
Pair of Whale's ear bones.
By William Cushing:
War club, South Sea Islands ; 2 Skin dresses, N. W. coast
Russian possessions; 1 Petticoat of the Chinook Indians,
Columbia river ; Hammock from" Guayaquil ; Gourd from
Sandwich Islands.
By Capt. Joseph Hoyt :
32 sea shells ; 4 pieces of roots of trees grown in China ; 2
specimens of Coral, red and white; 1 specimen of vegetable
tallow from trees in China; 1 spontoon ; 2 cases, specimens
• of insects; 1 Scorpion and 1 Centipede from the jungle of
India.
By Capt. George Lunt :
3 prints of bridges in England and Wales ; 1 cane, made of
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 473
white whale bone ; i picture, home of Washington ; i picture,
tomb of Washington; I picture of 200 captains in the Chin-
cha Islands, 1864; 2 Chinese palm leaf fans; 2 pair Chinese
shoes; sundry Chinese coins; 1 Japanese compass.
By Howard P. Currier :
2 Landscape views.
By Peter Walch:
2 oil paintings, view of Mt. Vesuvius, night and day; 1 ship
wreck.
By Charles F. Horton :
6 views of Calcutta; 1 geneological tree of British poets; 1
large pitcher, 1804; 18 picture plates of North American In-
dian warriors ; 1 picture Mt. Washington ; 1 picture Har-
vesting ; 1 picture of the dream of Arcadia ; 1 carved figure of
female, formerly over the door of George Ficke's house, cor-
ner of Market and Washington streets ; 1 model of Indian
birch bark canoe; 1 Confederate bond, $100; 1 $10 bill; 1 $5
bill; 1 $2 bill; 1 English Coast Pilot, 1854; 1 picture of the
ocean regatta, from New York to England; 1 agricultural
thermometer ; 1 pair of bellows ; 1 pair of old pocket pistols.
By Hon. George W. Jackman :
1 picture of the Double Ender.
By Rufus Wills :
1 oil painting of frigate Constitution ; 1 oil painting of frigate
Washington.
By Benjamin C. Currier :
1 picture of Lord Timothy Dexter's house.
By Micajah Lunt :
7 models of Ships built in Newburyport and Haverhill ; 1 pic-
ture of Ship Inez, off Havre ; 1 picture of Ship Castilian, off
Liverpool.
By Capt. Oliver O. Jones :
1 coral Sponge; 1 specimen gold ore from the Peak of Pico;
1 book of Japanese pictures.
474 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
By Capt. James Cook :
i Tea Caddy, 80 years old; 1 cocoanut from Porto Rico.
By Richard Fowler:
1 specimen of Chinese steelyards ; 1 small ship, made and
rigged by Capt. E. J. Colby, in 1835.
By Capt. Samuel B. Pike :
3 pair Chinese shoes ; 1 fancy Chinese box.
By George L. Bray:
1 specimen of black jack from Australia ; 1 walrus tusk ; 1
whale's tooth.
By Capt. George L. Rogers:
3 Australian spears ; 3 Australian bows and arrows ; 1 Austra-
lian paddle ; 1 Australian war club ; 1 Australian boomerang.
By Capt. Stephen P. Bray :
2 Malay spears ; 2 Malay poisoned cresses or daggers ; 1 pic-
ture of Malay comic actors ; 1 picture of Malay dancing girl ;
1 Box fish; 1 Porcupine fish; 1 Mindano sword, 2 stingaree
tails, from Philippine Islands.
By Capt. George Pierce:
1 Chinese opium pipe and lamp ; 1 specimen of first Atlantic
cable ; 1 Indian stone chisel ; 1 machine for making pipe
lighters.
By Capt. William Reed:
1 specimen of Locust.
By Oliver Townsend :
2 specimens of marble ; 1 humming bird's nest ; 1 specimen
of Sea Shell.
By John N. Pike, Esq. :
1 oil painting of Brutus ; 2 views of the principal buildings in
Calcutta ; 1 map of Calcutta ; 1 map of Madras ; 1 Madras
surf boat.
By Capt. Nicholas Varina:
4 models of Ships built in Newburyport.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 475
By Edward S. Moseley :
2 models of Ships built in Newburyport.
By Capt. E. E. Hale :
1 specimen of Barnacle, taken from the bottom of the ship
Guiding Star ; I Siamese umbrella ; sundry pictures of Madras.
By William Davis :
1 model of English man-of-war, built about 1669; 1 sounding
buoy of olden times.
By Curtis French:
1 stuffed Weasel.
By John Hansen of Bradford :
1 spotted Lizard, found on the camp ground at Georgetown,
1861.
By Capt. Elliott:
2 Queen Conch Shells.
By Capt. John Thompson :
1 large specimen of Brain Coral from Bermuda ; 2 anchors
and chains, whittled out of a piece of pine wood, and sundry
wooden brackets and pictures; 2 endless chains, cut from a
solid piece of pine wood; specimens of serpentine stone from
Devil's Den.
By Capt. Jerry Lunt :
1 Alligator car ; 1 piece stone of the first house in America ; 1
Porpoise jaw bone.
By Nathaniel Hills:
1 hand bill, first notice of peace between England and United
States, 1815.
By Capt. Edward Graves :
1 pair Bull's horns; 1 Toad fish; 2 saws of the Saw fish; 1
Crocodile's head and jaws from river Ganges.
By Dr. H. G. Leslie :
1 piece of wood taken from the U. S. frigate Constitution.
476 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Capt. S.W.Pike:
2 pictures of the Chincha Islands; 1 Chinese painting of the
ship Marmaluke ; 1 picture of the ship New Era.
By Capt. Frank Tilton :
1 specimen of lava and sulphur from a volcano in Sandwich
Islands ; 2 Walrus teeth, weighing 10 pounds each ; 1 saw fish
and 1 Saw fish sword ; 1 Garfish head ; 1 war club from the N.
W1. coast ; 1 bird spear from the N. W. coast.
By Capt. George L. Woods:
1 head and tusks of a Walrus ; 2 Sandwich Island spears ; 1
Sandwich Island sword ; 1 Japanese broom ; 3 pieces of lava
from the Sandwich Islands ; 1 Sandwich Island boat hook ; 2
slabs of whale bone ; 1 curious bone, from the Walrus ; 1 Jap-
anese pillow ; 1 Ocean Island war weapon ; 1 Albatross head ;
1 ocean Island fish hook ; 2 sea feathers from Sandwich
Islands ; 2 pieces coral, white and red, from Sandwich Islands ;
1 Chinese compass ; tail feathers from the Tropic bird, better
known among sailors as the boatswain.
By Mr. Dudley Hall :
1 Australian war instrument; 1 Boomerang; 2 old Masonic
aprons.
By Mr. Alfred Lord :
1 old continental sword buckle; 1 old map of London; 1
bronze eagle.
By Capt. Thomas Mackinney:
1 saw of the Saw fish from the Red Sea; 1 Ostrich Qgg; 1
native Australian cap, made from the fibres of the cocoanut
tree ; 1 saw of the Saw fish, 4 feet, 6 iches long, from the Red
Sea; 1 piece of the first bomb shell fired into Fort Sumter,
1861 ; 1 piece of red granite from the great monument of St.
Petersburg, Russia, which is 80 feet high, 10 feet in diameter,
round and polished, standing on a pedestal 14 feet square.
By Capt. David Le Craw:
Sundry pieces of silver ornaments taken in the Abyssinian war
presumed to be the house trappings of the King of Abys-
sinia.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 477
By Capt. Fred Moore :
i old nautical instrument for taking altitudes.
By Capt. Robert Bayley:
i large pearl Cockle shell, highly polished by himself.
By Miss Elizabeth Shaw:
i large native snake. ,
By Mrs. Isanna Dodge of Beverly:
i bone of horse's neck, painted to represent Benjamin Butler,
dressed up as a priest ; 3 specimens of Indian stone tools,
adze, hatchet and gouge.
By David Tucker, Gloucester:
1 sword of Sword fish; 1 joint of a Sea Serpent's back bone.
By Charles L. Kidder :
1 Porpoise jaw bone ; 1 bill of the Albatros ; 1 foot of the
Altbaross ; 1 Box fish from Japan.
By Thomas Lewis:
1 pair Chinese slippers ; 1 whalebone cane.
By Enoch Haskell:
1 cork wood cane.
By Hayden Brown :
1 pair native ox horns.
By Capt. Charles Stephens :
1 pair African sandals ; 1 pair of horns of the Gnu or horned
horse ; 1 hunting pouch ; 1 model of Ship Red Jacket in glass
case ; the Lord's prayer in Arabic.
By Hon. William Cushng:
2 dresses made from the entrails of the Walrus, N. W. coast ;
1 dress of a Chinook Indian woman, Columbia river; 1 ham-
mock from Juaquil; 1 gourd from Sandwich Islands.
By Mrs. Elizabeth Bray:
2 pieces of African cloth, made by natives of Sierro Leon;
fine specimens of Coral.
478 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
By Mrs. Cyrus Wakefield, Jr. :
i bird of Paradise.
By Charles Knapp:
i ostrich egg, from Cape Town, Cape Good Hope.
By Hiram P. Macintosh:
1 picture, photograph ship Tennyson ; i picture, photograph
of the battle between the Kearsarge and Alabama ; I picture,
photograph Schooner Eustice.
By Capt. Moses Mulliken:
2 stuffed Albatross ; I Davis quadrant used by Capt. Jonathan
Parsons; I English Coast Pilot of 1776; 1 Seaman's Assistant
of 1768.
By Capt. Isaac N. Colby:
1 whalebone cane.
By Capt. Albert Cheever:
2 orioles nests from the East Indies ; 1 picture of the Bluff,
west end of Plum Island; 1 ground cocoanut from the Nico-
bar Islands, Bay of Bengal.
By William P. Creasey:
2 Indian war clubs ; 1 Indian bow and arrow ; 3 fish hooks,
one line, 2 Indian fans ; 1 neck ornament ; 1 string wampum ; 1
Australian cap; 1 piece of platted line, 7 1-2 fathoms long,
made by Indians ; 1 Indian mat, worn by women.
By Luther Carter :
1 piece of the back bone of a Cow fish.
By Dr. Lloyd W. Hixon :
Specimens of copper ore.
By Waterman Reed:
Indian arrow heads ; relics of stone and pottery ; 4 pieces of
ancient coin.
By Capt. Giles P. Stone:
Sumner's Method of Finding Altitudes at Sea.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 479
By Capt. George Upton of Salem :
i copy of the by-laws of the Marine Society of Salem.
By George Hill, Esq. :
i volume of Lectures on St. Paul's Epistle, 1630.
By David Noyes :
1 lot of files, melted together in the great fire, Boston, 1872.
By Anthony Davenport :
Bayonet found on the Heights of Abraham, used in Gen.
Wolf's time.
By Washington Adams:
Sign of second house of entertainment at Newbury, Old
Town, kept by Jonathan Poor, in 1776, house built in 1664.
By Mrs. Susan Whitney :
60 photographs of the principal officers of the U. S. army
and navy.
By Jacob I. Danforth:
Key of the first prison or jail established in Newbury port;
6 pound cannon ball, found 3 feet under ground, when he dug
the cellar of his present house, supposed to be a relic of the
Revolution ; 1 copy of the Boston News Letter of 1704.
By Alfred Osgood :
Specimens of minerals from the Devil's Den ; an Indian spear
head ; specimens of lead ore, from Newbury mines.
By Miss Florence L. Johnson :
A piece of the melted bell of a church burnt in Farmington,
N. H. in 1875.
By Melvin Pillsbury :
1 piece Coral ; 1 Indian stone axe.
By Capt. George M. Graves:
1 pair polished Bullock's Horns from Africa ; 1 war club from
Africa.
By Henry Stover :
1 old fashioned Chinese mug.
480 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
By Oliver Townsend:
2 dozen native bird's eggs.
By Charles H. Pearl :
18 native bird's eggs.
By Edward H. Little :
1 rusty hatchet, picked up on Plumb Island beach, supposed
to have come from the brig Pocahontas, lost in 1839.
By George Curtis:
Model of the Newburyport Chain bridge, made in 1827, by
Humphrey Curtis.
By J. J. Currier:
Historical sketch of ship building on the Merrimac river,
written by himself.
By George Curtis :
1 Massanger snake and 1 Blue Racer snake, from Ohio.
By W. H. Johnson :
Pad used by Jacob Perkins, in the printing of bank bills.
By Mrs. Butman :
1 glass ship in glass case.
By Capt. Lawrence W. Brown :
Framed picture of ship Mary L. Cushing.
By John W. Sargent:
Framed picture of the flags of all nations.
By Lawrence B. Cushing:
2 charts of the City of London as it appeared 200 years ago ;
1 old compass.
By Capt. W. H. Lunt :
Piece of Coral and Beach Nut.
By the Misses Getchell:
2 charts of St. George's channel ; 1 port warden's certificate
of 1803; I Protection paper of 1796.
THB MARINE SOCIETY OF NKWBURYPORT 48 1
By Capt. J. F. Tilton:
1 Porcupine fish.
By United States Government :
8 volumes of the life saving service.
By Capt. Emerton:
1 copy Newburyport Herald, 1806.
By Henry Currier :
1 powder horn, 100 years old.
By Mrs. Charles E. Bayley:
1 stuffed bird, in glass case.
By E. P. Goodwin:
1 picture of a boat.
By Capt. J. F. Tilton :
1 log book of 1804; 1 log book of U. S. Ship Warren, kept
in 1800.
By Capt. S. P. Bray :
Epitome, printed in 1794; book of signals.
By Mrs. Williams:
1 oil painting of Capt. John C. Hoyt.
By Capt. C. E. Coker:
American Coast Pilot, printed in 1800.
By John L. Tobin :
Oil painting of steamship President, lost in 1841.
By Capt. L. W. Brown :
3 Calcutta newspapers of 1857.
By Alfred Lord:
Cannon ball, dug from the ground in the rear of Lord
Brothers' store, in 1874, probably a Revolutionary relic.
By Mrs. John Winder :
Framed picture of the interior of the Old South church, as it
appeared April 19, 1896, the occasion being a sermon
preached by Dr. H. C. Hovey, to the Marine Society.
31-a
482 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
AN ANCIENT FIRE COMPANY.
MARINE FIRE SOCIETY FLOURISHED IN REVOLUTION-
ARY TIMES.
SHIPMATES WHO ORGANIZED FOR MUTUAL PROTECTION
AND CARRIED BUCKETS AND BAGS.
It is not known to people of the present day that one of
Newburyport's fire companies dates back to the revolutionary
period, a time when the inhabitants of the town were filled with
independence and war was brewing.
In December, 1775, the Marine Fire Society of Newburyport
was organized, and none were identified with it but the master
mariners of the old Marine Society, whose history reaches back
to 1772 — 130 odd years ago.
We are not going to maintain that this was the original fire
company of Newburyport, there may have been some organized
fire-fighters before that, but of the one we refer to very little has
been heard and its existence is well nigh forgotten, and may after
all be the original fire company of Newburyport.
The company was composed of masters of the Newburvport
vessels and the ledger account with each member which the writer
has examined with rare interest, shows that in every instance the
member was a "captain." From the fly leaf the reader may learn
that the ancient book is a record of the "Transactions of the Ma-
rine Fire Society of Newburyport" and on the first page appears
a "copy of an instrument signed by sundry members of the Marine
Society of Newburyport to form themselves into a fire society by
the name of Marine Fire Society." Then the projectors set forth
that "we agree to keep ourselves equipped with buckets and bags
and all other necessary utensils for the purpose of assisting our
dwellings, etc., and releasing the family or families distressed by
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 483
fire ; belonging to this society first, and agree to follow such di-
rections as shall be appointed by members of the society and that
no person be a member of this Marine Fire Society unless he be
a member of the Marine Society of Newburyport."
Signed :
David Coats, William Friend,
Joseph Noyes, Thomas Jones,
William Coombs, Henry Friend,
William Noyes, Moses Hale,
William P. Johnson, Edward Wigglesworth,
Michael Hodge Jeremiah Pearson,
Samuel Newhall, Thomas Thomas,
Eleazer Johnson, Jr., William Stickney,
Joshua Hills, Nathaniel Nowell.
Capt. Edward Wigglesworth, Samuel Newhall and Michael
Hodge were appointed to report by-laws and Capt. William
Coombs and Capt. Moses Hale were afterward added to the com-
mittee.
The laws adopted by the society, which went into operation
in December, 1775, had for a preamble, the following: We the
subscribers for the more speedy and effectual assistance of each
other in securing our substance when in danger of fire do form
ourselves into a society under the nomination of the Marine So-
ciety, and agree to the following articles, viz :
The first article relates to the name and provides that each
shall be a member of the Marine Society. Then "secondly" it is
provided that "each of us will also keep in good order, hanging
up in some convenient place in our respective dwellings, two
leather buckets, in which shall be two bags, each bag measuring
one yard and half in length, and three-quarters of a yard in
breadth, being hemmed at the mouths and having strong string
to draw them close ; the buckets and bags shall be marked with
the first letter of the owner's Christian name and with his surname
at length, under a penalty of three shillings for each deficiency.
At short notice of the fire we will immediately repair with our
buckets and bags to the dwelling house, warehouse, shop or ves-
sel of any member of the society which we apprehend most in
484 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
danger, and use our best endeavor, by his direction, and secure
all his goods and effects and properly dispose ourselves to pre-
vent embezzlement and will see them returned to him again after
the fire is over, under penalty of what the society may think to
determine.
The fourth article provides for constant attendance at the
meetings "if in town, and not sick or lame," under a penalty of
one shilling and four pence for not being present at each meet-
ing and six pence for not being punctual.
The fifth article provides for a moderator and clerk and it
was made a part of the clerk's duty to "visit the dwellings and
stores of each member at least every quarter and observe whether
his buckitts and bags are in good order or not, and make report
of the same."
Then again the members were required to become acquainted
with each other's dwelling, stores and "passages thereunto," the
clerk, it was required, shall take with him on each visitation one
quarter of the society and each member neglecting to attend on a
reasonable summons by the clerk, was required to pay a fine of
two shillings.
The neglect to notify the clerk of a removal from one dwell-
ing, store or shop to another, meant a fine of one shilling.
The organization became in character a semi-secret society,
for it was provided as follows : "We will have a watch word
whereby to know each other which shall continue until the so-
ciety shall see cause to change it, and every member shall whisper
the same to the moderator upon his first entrance at every meet-
ing, and to any other member when challenged under the penalty
of eight pence, and if he divulge it to any other person not a
member he shall be fined six shillings."
Each member was required to report the loss of his bucket
or bag at a fire to the clerk, and was also expected to keep a
printed copy of these articles by him ("for which he shall pay")
containing names of members, their dwellings and stores and
produce them at every quarterly meeting. And every member
violating these articles or refusing to pay the penalties or absent
from four successive meetings, (being in town) ceased to be
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT
485
members and could only be readmitted by the unanimous consent
of the society.
Affixed to these articles appear the signatures of the mem-
bers:
M. Brown,
Jonathan Parsons,
Peter L,e Breton,
William Farris,
Benjamin Rogers,
Benjamin O'Brien,
William Armstrong,
Henry Lunt,
Thomas Jones,
William Stickney,
Henry Friend,
David Coats,
Joseph Noyes,
William Coombs,
William Friend,
Joseph Newman,
Samuel Newhall,
Nicholas Johnson,
Benjamin Wyatt,
Sewell Toppan,
Abraham Wheelwright,
Israel Young,
George Jenkins,
Peter Le Breton, Jr.,
Charles Hodge,
Isaac Stone,
Samuel Chase,
Jacob Stone,
Stephen Holland,
Thomas M. Follansbee,
Nathaniel Fletcher,
Joseph Bragdon,
Joseph Tyler,
David Stickney,
Jere Young,
Robert Follansbee,
Paul Simpson,
John Dole,
Samuel Nichols,
William H. Mitchell,
Michael Hodge,
William Pierce Johnson,
Nathaniel Nowell,
Edward Wiggles worth,
Moses Hale,
Anthony Knapp,
John Coombs,
James Tilestone,
James Nicoll,
George Rapall,
Joseph Rowe,
Philip Aubin,
Ebenezer Stocker,
James Johnston,
John Fletcher,
Isaac Adams,
John N. Oushing,
William Nichols,
William Bartlet, Jr.,
Charles Cook, Jr.,
Richard Picket,
John H. Titcomb,
Dennis Condre,
Amos Noyes,
Nestor Coffin,
Zebulon Titcomb.
31-b
486 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
The records began May 2, 1776, Capt. David Coats was
moderator, and Capt. Edward Wigglesworth, clerk. Then Aug.
1, 1776, Capt. Samuel Newhall became clerk.
The record, for the first years were mainly regarding the in-
spection of buckets and bags, and" the election of officers. In 1778
the moderator began to be called the president and then it ap-
peared that the record of the meetings was begun to be kept in
another book. Ledger accounts appear in the other end of the
same book.
While these names appear as subscribing to the "articles"
there are others who joined whose names appear in the ledger
account. The book shows that the members paid their fines, if
not cheerfully, they certainly did loyally.
Capt. Jonathan Parsons was fined a dozen times for not hav-
ing bags as required, costing him three shillings each time.
Strange to say, from August, 1777, to May, 1784, Capt. Jonathan
failed to get his bags with "puckering strings" and how much
longer we cannot tell for the record closed.
Nearly every member appears to have been fined for one
thing or another. Capt. Joshua Hills never provided himself with
bags. Capt. Ebenezer Johnson was caught on inspection with but
one bag in his bucket and another time he didn't have the pass-
word. Capt. John O'Brien paid numerous fines for non-attend-
ance.
Many of them did not have their by-laws at the meetings and
probably inwardly railed at the wretched memories they had.
Some were late at arriving at meetings, probably stopping for a
bit of gossip on the way to the place of meeting. Capt. Anthony
Knapp failed to notify the clerk of his removal.
Nicholas Johnson served as clerk in 1796, Abraham Wheel-
wright in 1798. It is noted that "Pounds, shillings and pence" was
dropped in the book and the accounts begun in dollars and cents
in 1798. This must have caused unlimited trouble in the mental
arithmetic of the ancient accountants in "figuring out" the equiva-
lent of one to the other.
The book is full of old Newburyport names, an interesting
journal to the descendants of these old worthy ship masters. Some
of the entries in the book are up to 1829 and new names con-
stantly occur — but all were captains.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 487
It is indeed to be regretted that the record shows none of the
valiant and heroic deeds of the ancient fire-fighters, but it must
be presumed they did brave things, especially as the company was
in existence when the great fire of 1811 occurred. Forming as
it does, part of the history of the old Marine society, the ancient
volume is a valuable record of the past.
488 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
CUSTOM RECEIPTS.
REPORTS MADE BY LOCAL SURVEYOR IOO YEARS AGO-
MOLASSES AND SUGAR IMPORTANT ITEMS OF IM-
PORTATION— SOME OF THE PECULIARITIES
OF THE TRADE THEN CARRIED ON.
The record of the Custom House Surveyor, Michael Hodge,
for this port in 1790-92, gives some idea of the commerce of
Newburyport in those days — days when this town was one of im-
portance in foreign importations. At that time Stephen Cross,
Thomas Cross, William Titcomb, Michael Little and Nicholas
Hodge and William Stickney were custom inspectors.
Many of the vessels, according to the ancient record we have
at hand, were from Guadaloupe with molasses, sugar and coffee,
Madeira with wines, Cape Breton with mackerel, England with
merchandise and salmon, Turk Island and Cape Francois with
salt, molasses, coffee, cocoa and tobacco, from Bilboa with silk
handkerchiefs and silk goods, from St. John's with grindstones,
from Rotterdam with liquors and gunpowder; vessels arrived
from Liverpool, Vigo and Cadiz, Spain, Port au Prince, Dunkirk,
Gibraltar, etc.
The importation of molasses and sugar from Guadaloupe
principally was an important trade, but most everything of for-
eign production came to this port.
The journal of arrivals as kept by the port surveyor showed
the date of arrival, name of vessel and master, where from and
number of day's passage, her cargo, name of inspector assigned
to the vessel, date of entry at custom house and date of discharge
of cargo.
Trading vessels did not always meet with good fortune, for
schooner Hancock brought home from Newfoundland one bar-
rel of tar, 6000 bricks, 8000 shingles and two desks for want of a
market. Sometimes "a little out of the ordinary" would occur,
which would call for some bit of comment on the part of the sur-
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 489
veyor to be written. The ship William came in Oct. 30, 1790,
from Petersbourgh and Boston ; William Titcomb went on board
as inspector. Thomas Thistle was found on board as inspector,
being ordered on board by the inspector of Boston, and to tarry
and to account of her cargo until she was discharged, and to make
his report to said collector of Boston, he saying he was not ac-
countable to any officer in this district," says the record. To this
the surveyor adds, "Very extraordinary, I think."
Next day the shallop Betsy, Joseph Aubin, master, arrived
from Gaberaris Island, Cape Breton, after six weeks' passage.
She had on board household furniture, dried fish and oil, which
were designed for the use of himself and his family, having come
here with the intention of becoming a citizen of the United States.
His shallop of 30 tons was hauled up until a representation could
be made to the secretary or Congress regarding his intentions.
July 6, 1 781, the record shows that the schooner Polly, Capt.
Ezra Towne, B. Maly, formerly master, had 10 hogsheads of mo-
lasses less than the entry at the custom house. The report is that
"it does not appear to be a fraud, but a mistake, the captain being
killed on the way home."
August 22 and 23 ship William and brig Three Friends came
in from Amsterdam with 299 cases of gin, boxes of glass, quantity
of steel, and a lot of looking glasses ; thus the ladies could admire
themselves in the looking glasses, and the men get a taste of
"Schnapps" that would make their eyes sparkle no doubt.
The surveyor said, in reference to the cargo of the ship Eliza,
there being three hogsheads of molasses short and the salt falling
very much short, is as (in my opinion) to give suspicion of some
indiscreet practices made use of in discharging this cargo.
Whether this was an ancient case of "graft" or not, does not
appear to be written.
It was, however, not unusual to have the cargoes fall short,
but as a general thing the claim of error was accepted and so re-
corded.
The record of which we have made reference is from, Aug.
12, 1790, to Dec. 29, 1792, and is now the property of the Marine
Society.
490 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
MISCELLANY.
WRECK OF THE POCAHONTAS.
[FROM THE HISTORY OF NEWBURYPORT BY J. J. CURRIER.]
Dec. 15th, 1839, most destructive gale E. S. E., ever occurred
on our coast, all along New England coast ; it was terrific, 40 ves-
sels in Gloucester alone, lost.
Monday, Dec. 23, 1839. Soon after daylight, Capt. Brown of
the Hotel discovered the wreck of a vessel, dismantled, on a reef
which lies about 150 yards from the beach and nearly one-half a
mile east of the hotel. From the papers, trunks and fragments of
the vessel, strewed on the beach, she was known to be the brig
Pocahontas, Capt. James G. Cook, which sailed from Cadiz the
latter part of October for this port. When first discovered only
three men were seen, one lashed to the taffrail, nearly or quite
naked, and apparently dead, and two clinging to the bowsprit. In
a short time, and before the intelligence had reached town, the
weather being so thick that no signals from the island could
be seen, only one man and he clinging to the bowsprit, remained.
The tremendous sea running, rendered it impossible to get any
assistance to the only survivor of this ill-fated crew, who main-
tained his position for several hours (having lost it once and re-
gained it) in sight of many people on the beach, who had no power
to relieve him, until he was swept into the surf the second time
and was seen no more. The place where the brig struck is the
most dangerous spot on the island, as between it and the shore is
a wide space of water deep enough to float the largest vessels. Had
she been a quarter of a mile either side she would have run on a
dry and smooth beach.
It appears that she must have anchored in the course of the
night, and being too near the shore for good holding ground,
dragged from her anchors and went stern on to the reef, where
she thumped until her stern was stove in, and the fearful breach
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 49 1
which the sea made, continued to tear her in pieces, until nothing
but the skeleton of what was once a noble vessel, remained.
When she came into the bay, and whether those on board
knew her position during the gale, whether the majority of them
were swept off together, or one by one, being overpowered by the
intensity of the cold and violence of the sea, — will never be known
— as not one of the 12 or 13 souls on board is left to tell the sad
tale. It is heart-rending, indeed, that the toil worn mariner, after
beating about on a stormy coast for many days, should be wrecked
and perish within sight of the smoke ascending from his own
hearth.
The Pocahontas sailed from Cadiz in September, was run into
by a Spanish ship and compelled to put back, discharge and repair.
She sailed again in the latter part of October. As most, if not
all, of the original crew left her during this time, and no list of the
crew is found among the papers which have come on shore, the
names only of the captain, James G. Cook, and chief mate, Albert
Cook, son of Mr. Elias Cook of this town, are known. She had at
least nine hands before the mast. She was 271 tons burthen, built
in 1830, was owned by Capt. John N. Cushing, and the vessel was
insured in' Boston. The cargo was not insured.
The disasters by this gale were tremendous from all our coast
as far north as the Penobscot to south of New York.
FRENCH WAR.
Previous to Sept. 2, 1794, the following named vessels, com-
manded by members of the Marine Society, were captured and a
large amount of valuable property confiscated :
Ship Russell, Capt. Jonathan Young.
Brig Betsey, Capt. John Wiley.
Brig Margaret, Capt. Jonathan Dalton.
Brig Stark, Capt. John Holland.
Schooner Fox, Capt. Thomas Adams.
Schooner Flora, Capt. Thomas Follansbee.
Schooner Hope, Capt. Daniel Farley.
492
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
PILOTAGE.
In 1789 Newburyport was made a port of entry. Newbury-
port was made a district to which was annexed Salisbury, Ames-
bury and Haverhill, as ports of delivery.
In 1790, an act was passed by the General Court regulating
pilotage for Newburyport, under the following provisions, that
no person should take any vessel in or out of the Merrimac river,
drawing nine or more feet of water, (except coasters and fisher-
men), without obtaining a commission or branch as a pilot, the
branch or commission was to be granted by the Governor and
Council, only on the applicant producing a certificate of capacity,
signed by the clerk of the Marine Society of Newburyport, in be-
half of a majority of its members.
The pilot was obliged to deposit with the treasurer of the
commonwealth, £100 as security that he would give up his branch
when required to do so by the Governor, upon the representation
by the Marine Society, that he had become disqualified. The pilots
were confined to prescribed limits, outside of which no ship
master was obliged to take a pilot. The limits were from New-
bury bar to Jebacca, from Jebacca to Halibut point, from Halibut
point to the Isle of Shoals, from the Isle of Shoals to Rye beach.
This caused a great deal of trouble, ship masters having their
favorite pilots would lay outside the limits until their favorite
pilot came along, and the Marine Society had a law passed oblig-
ing any ship or vessel requiring the services of a pilot, to receive
the first person offering his services, and holding a branch for the
port to which the vessel was bound. This law was passed in 1847.
TO THE GOLD FIELDS.
List of passengers, residence Newburyport, brig Ark, Nov. 1,
1849, to California, Capt. Charles Marsh, furnished by John W.
Sargent :
George Brown, N. D. Plummer,
Richard Caldwell, Paul Plummer,
William N. Ellsworth, Daniel H. Smith,
William E. Ellsworth, William W. Stickney,
William J. Griffin, James H. Small,
Joseph Hunt, Richard Lambert,
C. B. Ingraham, Albert Patten,
John Marsh, Henry Patten,
William Marsh.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 493
MILL PRISON.
[FROM HISTORY OF NEWBURYPORT - CURRIER.]
Mill Prison was a massive stone building, in the centre of an
extensive court. The court was surrounded by a high wall, and 20
feet beyond there was another wall parallel to the first, completely
surrounding it.
The only apertures in these walls were a gate in each, the in-
ner one being formed with massive iron bars, eight feet high.
The outer gate during the day usually was left open, so as to
allow free communication between the keepers and their dwellings,
which were placed just outside the outer wall. Between 8 o'clock
in the morning and sunset the prisoners were allowed the privilege
of the inner court, but at night they were securely locked in the
prison house. Many sentinels were stationed among the prison-
ers in the inner court, and in the prison itself, besides the regular
patrols in the two encircling walls and at the gates.
THE SHIP MERRIMACK.
[THROUGH THE KINDNESS OF MISS EDITH WILLS.]
The following letter to the President of the United States,
explains the views of the patriotic citizens of Newburyport :
Newburyport, June 1, 1798.
Sir: — A number of the inhabitants of this town have agreed to build
and equip a ship of three hundred and fifty-five tons burthen, to be
mounted with twenty 6-pound cannon, and to offer her tio the govern-
ment of the United States for their use, requiring no other compensation
than 6 per cent on the net cost of ship and equipments, and a final reim-
bursement at the convenience of the government of net cost.
This offer was signed by nine merchants, among whom we find the
names of Capt. William Coombs, Capt. Moses Brown, Capt. William P.
Johnson, Capt. Nicholas Johnson, Capt. William Faris, Capt. Ebenezer
Stocker, all members of the Marine Society.
The offer was accepted, the ship was built in seventy-five working
days. The keel was laid on July 9, and she was launched on Oct. 12, 1798.
She was named the Merrimack, was immediately fitted out and sent to sea
under command of Capt. Moses Brown. Her cost was $46,170, and at the
end of five years she was sold in Boston for $21,154, her name changed to
Monticello. She was soon after wrecked and lost on Cape Cod.
494
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
CONTRACT TO BUILD THE SHIP MERRIMACK.
This agreement made and concluded upon at Newburyport, in the
County of Essex, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, this thirteenth
day of June, 1798, between William Cross, shipwright, and Thomas Clark,
merchant, on the one part, and William Bartlet, William Coombs, Nicho-
las Johnson, Ebenezer Stocker and Abraham Wheelwright, merchants, on
the other part. Witnesseth,
That the said William Cross and Thomas Clark doth agree to build
and finish in a workmanlike manner, the hull of a ship, of the following
dimensions, viz: Ninety-two feet keel, thirty feet beam and fifteen feet
hold to the Gun Deck, the scantling to be white oak above the navel tim-
bers, and to be of the size directed by William Hackett, the superintend-
ent; the running plank on the bottom to be three inches thick, and to have
thick streaks at the floor Heads; to have four wales and two black streaks,
with a four-inch streak under the wale; the ceiling and upper works to be
two and half inches thick of white oak; the beams and knees to be white
oak and sufficiently stanchioned to built a waist, and pierce it for twenty
guns, exclusive of the bridle posts; a quarter deck and forecastle to take
in the main and foremasts; to lay gang boards to unite them; to fit in with
pine or cedar the quarters and ceil up the same; to put a rail round the
forecastle; the plank of the gun deck to be three inches thick with a suf-
ficient number of oak streaks for the guns; the quarter deck and fore-
castle two and half inches, and all free from sap or shakes; to have a grub,
and beam, and hollowed water ways; to build a double capstan, windlass
and bell bits, gratings, skids, side ladders and boat chalks; to lay on her
top deck, the beams of which are to be dovetailed into a sufficiently
thick clamp, and on the beams to fay on a thick water way, the whole
to be bolted together; to caulk and pay the bottom sides and decks suffi-
ciently; to find the timber for the head and galleries; to butt and bilge bolt,
stop worm holes, clear chips, and water, and do and complete everything
which a carpenter ought to do for a ship capable of carrying twenty guns,
(except building the head and galleries), and deliver her afloat at New-
buryport by the last day of September next, free from every expense ex-
cept what is specified in this agreement, the whole work in matter and
manner to be superintended by William Hackett, and to be agreeable to
the said William Bartlet, William Coombs, Nicholas Johnson, Ebenezer
Stocker, and Abraham Wheelwright.
In consideration whereof, the said William Bartlet, William Coombs,
Nicholas Johnson, Ebenezer Stocker and Abraham Wheelwright doth
agree to pay, or cause to be paid, to the said William Cross and Thomas
M. Clark, twenty-two and one-half dollars per ton for every ton and parts
of a ton that the said dimensions of ninety-two feet keel, thirty feet beam,
and fifteen feet hold shall measure, carpenter's tonnage, in manner follow-
ing, viz: One-third part down, one-third part when the ship is shut in un-
der wale, and the remaining third part when the ship is completed and
delivered.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 495
Furthermore, the said William Bartlet, William Coombs,, Nicholas
Johnson, Ebenezer Stocker and Abraham Wheelwright doth agree to
furnish all the iron and iron work, copper and copper work, joiners' work,
pitch, tar, oakum and nails, when called for, and to the true performance
of which we bind ourselves in the sum of two thousand dollars.
Signed, sealed and delivered in presence of
GREENLEAF CLARK,
RICHARD BARTLET, JR.,
WILLIAM BARTLET,
WILLIAM COOMBS,
NICHOLAS JOHNSON,
EBENEZER STOCKER,
ABRAHAM WHEELWRIGHT.
PRIVATEERING.
During the Revolutionary war privateering was very exten-
sively engaged in by merchants of Newburyport, and the most
brave and daring deeds were performed, striking terror to the
hearts of the British seamen, by men whose names are recorded
upon the roll of the Marine Society, they acting under the act of
the Provincinal Legislature, "an act for encouraging the fitting
out of armed vessls to defend the sea coast of America,, passed
November, 1775."
Among the list we find:
Capt. William Russell of the General Ward,
" John O'Brien " " Hibernia,
" William Knapp " " Palos,
" Eleazer Johnson " " Dalton,
" Moses Brown " " General Arnold,
" Moses Brown " " Merrimac,
" Andrew Giddings " " Civil Usage,
" W. P. Johnson " " Independence,
" Peter Roberts " " Ranger,
" Joseph Rowe " " Washington,
" Israel Young " " ship Russell,
" Israel Young " " brig Beaver,
" John Wiley " " " Betsey,
" Enoch Knapp " " " Dolphin,
" Jonathan Dalton " " " Margaret,
" John Holland " " " Stork,
496 RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Capt.
Thomas Adams
of the Schr Fox,
<<
Thomas M. Follansbee
" " " Flora,
<<
Daniel Farley
" " " Hope,
tt
William Noyes
" " «' Sally,
a
Moses Brown
" " " Hannah,
tt
Moses Brown
" " " Dolphin.
In
the War of 1812.
tt
William Stickney
in the ship Moriarty,
<<
William Stickney
" " brig Jordan,
<<
William Stickney
" " " Eos,
tt
John Wills
" a " Leader,
tt
Joseph Brown, 3rd
" " ship Washington
The following members of the Marine Society were captured
in the brig Dalton, in June, 1777, commanded by Capt. Eleazer
Johnson, viz : Anthony Knapp, John Buntin, Offin Boardman and
Henry Lunt.
The first privateer fitted out within the limits of the original
thirteen colonies, sailed from Newburyport, in August, 1775, and
was owned by Nathaniel Tracy.
Monday, Jan. 15, 1776, the ship Friends, of London, com-
manded by Capt. Archible Bowie, was captured just outside New-
buryport bar, and brought into the harbor by a crew of seventeen
men, in three whale boats, under the charge of Capt. Offin Board-
man.
SEA FENCIBLES.
In 1814 a company was formed to guard and protect the
coast at Plum Island, at the mouth of the Merrimac river, against
the landing of the British, who might destroy the town, should
they succeed in landing their troops. The complete roll of this
company is now in the library of the Marine Society. Upon the
roll we find the following members of the Marine Society :
David Lufkin, First Lieutenant.
Hector Coffin, Second Lieutenant.
Charles Hodge, Third Lieutenant.
William Bartlet, Jr., Orderly Sergeant.
Green Johnson, Third Sergeant.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 497
James Francis, Corporal.
John H. Titcomb, Privates.
Thomas Adams, "
Jonathan Titcomb, Jr., "
James Meyer, "
John T. Ross,
Alexander Livingston, "
John Dole,
Charles Cook,
Moses Brown, Jr., "
William Friend, "
David Haskell,
CONFEDERATE PRIVATEERS.
List of ships commanded by members of the Marine Society,
destroyed during the war by Confederate privateers.
Ship Crown Point, built at Newburyport, by John Ourrier,
Jr., 1098 tons register, owned by Isaac H. Boardman, Capt. Henry
Cook, Albert Currier, Joseph B. Morss, William H. Brewster,
and John Currier, Jr., was captured and burnt May 13, 1863, while
on her way from San Francisco to New York, with an assorted
cargo, by the privateer Florida, claim filed $417,912.99.
Ship George Griswold, of New York, commanded by Capt.
Richard Pettingell, having as third officer George L. Bray, both
of Newburyport, bound from Cardiff to Rio de Janeiro, was cap-
tured about 15 miles from Cape Frio by the privateer Georgia,
June 8th, 1863. The cargo belonged to neutrals. She was re-
leased under a ransom bond for $100,000.
Ship Sonora of Newburyport, 708 tons, built by John Currier,
Jr., and owned in Newburyport by William Cushing, John N.
Cushing, Nicholas Johnson, Mary A. Johnson, E. L. B. Wills,
William Pritchard and Thomas Pritchard, commanded by Capt.
Lawrence W. Brown, with Isaac N. Colby and Bradford Swap of
this city as officers, bound from Hong Kong to Akyab, British In-
dia, with a cargo of rice, was captured Nov. 26, 1863, in Lat. 3
N. Longitude 103 E. by the Alabama, Capt. Semmes, and burned.
Claim filed against the Alabama, award $94,514.44.
32-a
498
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Bark Martaban, flying British colors, name changed from
Texan Star. Capt. Samuel B. Pike of Newburyport, master, with
a cargo of rice for Singapore, captured and burned by the Alabama
near Malacca, Dec. 24, 1863. Capt. Pike, Capt. George L. Rogers
and Samuel Stevens of this city part owners. Claim filed $52,-
922.25. ,
Ship Anna F. Schmidt of Maine, bound from Boston to San
Francisco, via St. Thomas, (whither she had put in in distress),
with an assorted cargo, captured and burned, July 2, 1863, by the
Alabama. Capt. Moses J. Mulliken of Newburyport, part owner.
[FROM HISTORY OF NEWBURYPORT, BY J.J. CURRIER.]
PRIVATEERS COMMANDED BY MEMBERS OF THE
MARINE SOCIETY.
Sloop Game Cock,
Schooner Washington,
Washington,
" „ Hawke,
Brigantine Civil Usage,
Schooner Independence,
Brigantine Dalton,
Pallas,
" Wayford,
Ship General Arnold,
Brig Hope,
" Thorn,
" Thorn,
" Defiance,
" Adventure,
" Virgin,
Ship Unity,
Schooner Hibernia,
" Friendship,
Ship Vengeance,
Brig Jupiter,
" Charming Nancy,
" Massachusetts,
Ship Beaver,
" Minerva,
Brig Little Porga,
" Mercury.
Ship William,
" Lyon,
Brigantine Vengeance,
DATK OF
COMMISSION.
Dec. 11. 1775
Dec. 11
10
20 tons, Captain Peter Roberts,
50 " " Offiu Boardman,
50 " " Joseph Row, Oct
80 " " John Calef, Nov. 13
90 " " , Andrew Giddings, Sept. 19
50 " " Wm. P. Johnson, Nov. 25
160 " " Eleazer Johnson, Oct. 7
120 " " James Johnson, Nov. 11
ISO " " John Fletcher, Jan. 2
250 " " Moses Brown, April 16
110 " " William Friend, Sept. 16
95 " " John Coombs, Oct. 22
100 " " William Russell, Dec. 7
150 " " Jonathan Parsons, Jan. 4
120 " " John O'Brien, Jan. 5
130 " " Isaac Green Pearson, Jan. 28
150 " " Jeremiah Pearson. Mar. 19
70 " " John O'Brien, May 17
60 " " Edw.Wigglesworth, June 3
350 '• " Thomas Thomas, June 30
100 " " Peter Roberts, Nov. 20
120 " " William Farris, Nov. 23
130 " " John Calef, Nov. 29
150 " " William Russell, Feb. 5
220 " " Moses Brown, Feb. 24
100 " " Wm. Armstrong, April 30
100 » " Wm. Farris June 26
200 " " Joseph Rowe, June 26
250 " " Wingate Newman, July 14
350 " " Wingate Newman, Aug. 16
1775
1776
1778
1776
1777
1776
1777
1778
1778
1778
1778
1779
1779
1779
1779
1779
1779
1779
1779
1779
1779
1780
1781
1781
1781
1781
1781
1781
1778
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT
499
INDEX.
PAGE
Alabama, 397, 413, 421, 435, 49$
"Arkonaughts," 492
By-Laws, 305
Amendments, 11, 12, 25, 33, 42, 164, 182, 197, 198, 203, 211, 215,
229, 239, 300
Breaking Rock, 21, 24
Building for Society, 213
Centennial Celebration, 258
Custom Receipts — peculiarities of trade, 488
Charter — Act of Incorporation, 18
Amendments, 133, 165, 243
Dartmouth prison, 324
Decatur, privateer, 370, . . 379
Elcano, ship, 240, 418, 425
Fire Society, 185, 221, 227, 265, 482
Florida, rebel privateer, 429, 497
French war, . 491
Georgia, rebel privateer, 425, ........ 497
Harbor Signals, 36, 37, 39, 105, 107, 162, 173, 216, 242, 265, 273, 278,
283, 295
Huts on Plum Island, 56, 68, 71, 73, 265
Historical Address, .......... 263
Museum, 247, 248, 250, 469
Members and Incidents ......... 313
Mill Prison, 323, 493
Ship Merrimac, 327, 329, 340, 493
Pilotage, 492
Privateering, 498, . . . 495
Sea Fencibles, . 496
Shenandoah, rebel privateer, 459
Tennyson, ship, . . . . . . . . . . 270
MEMBERS.
Adams, Isaac, 100, 188, 485, 365
Adams, Thomas, 66, 491, 496, 497, 341
Armstrong, William, 29, 31, 485, 498, 332
Aubin, Philip, 29, 54, 284, 485, 333
Avery, George T., 253, .440
32-b
5<x>
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Balch, George E., 229, 231,
Bagley, John, 69, 74,
Bartlet, William, 139, 220, 485, 496,
Bayley, Charles E., 230, 283,
Bayley, Charles M., 210, .
Bayley, John T., 239,
Bayley, Raphael A., 234, 260, 290,
Bayley, Robert, 210, 290, .
Bayley, Robert, 281, 283, .
Bayley, William H., 240, .
Barber, Benjamin,
Bernard, John, 10, 30,
Boardman, Offin, 69, 323, 360, 496, 498,
Boardman, Samuel, 175, 227,
Boardman, Thomas H., 271,
Boyson, John M.,
Bradbury, Ebenezer,
Bragdon, Joseph, 115, 175, 485
Bray, George L., 260, 425, 497,
Bray, Isaac A., 251, .
Bray, Nehemiah A., 230, 231,
Bray, Stephen P., 289,
Bray, Stephen P., 271,
Brown, Charles W., 285, .
Brown, Frank W., 276,
Brown, Jacob B., 236, 285,
Brown, James, 18,
*Brown, John E., 237, 244.
Brown, Joseph, 96, 132, 327, 496,
Brown, Lawrence W., 237, 310, 421, 435,
Brown, Moses, 14, 15, 26, 75, 485. 493, 495,
Brown, Moses, 96, 114, 497,
Brown, Moses, 206, 234, .
Buntin, Charles, 183,
Buntin, John, 13, 496,
Burnham, William I., 260,
Butman, Samuel,
Calef, John, 22, 26, 29, 498,
Campbell, George, 141, 160,
Carter, Frederick W., 255,
Chandler, Samuel, 73,
Chase, Charles A., 260,
Chase, Samuel, 89, 327, 485,
Chase, Samuel W., 225,
Cheever, Albert, 451,
Cheney, William A., 175, 276,
498,
PAGE
410
341
372
410
393
401
415
392
466
426
38l
323
355
38i
449
402
440
368
448
385
403
386
449
466
456
414
330
364
415
325
363
392
382
324
448
383
331
372
387
357
448
361
401
403
381
*Was not enrolled.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 501
PAGE
*Choate, Enoch, 128, . * .
Choate, Joseph, 10, 21, 22, * 323
Choate, Ebenezer, 73, ioo, 357
Coats, David, 6, 26, 483, 319
Coffin, Abel, 376
Coffin, George, 231, 244, .381
Coffin, Hector, 163, 202, 496, 375
Coffin, Isaac S., 223, 382
Coffin, John, 175, * . 380
Coffin, John M., 218, 393
♦Coffin, Nestor, 485, . .
Coffin, William, 13, 14, 324
Coker, Charles E., 232, 4"
Colby, Charles H., 273, . 454
Colby, Edwin J., 232, 403
Colby, Elbridge G., 228, 406
Colby, Isaac N., 421, 429, 458, 432
Condry, Dennis, 148, 276, 375
Connor, Benjamin, 29, 35, 69, 85, . . . . j * . 333
Cook, Charles, 142, 485, 497, ........ 374
Cook, James, 284, 393
Cook, Henry, 210, .......... 393
Coombs, John, 26, 176, 485, 498, 332
Coombs, William, 6, 483, 493, . 320
Couch, Robert, 219, 399
Cushing, John N., 96, 117, 208, 485, 363
Dalton, Jonathan, 85, 491, 495, 360
Davenport, Charles, 141, 143, ..*..... 373
Denney, John, 106, .......... 368
Dole, Friend, 78, 358
Dole, John, 115, 485, 497, 368
Dow, Benjamin P., 230, 249, ........ 410
Elliott, James W., 237, 426
Elliott, John, 102, 366
Emerton, Benjamin C, 223, 310, ....... 413
Farley, Daniel, 73, 98, 491, 496, 357
Farris, William, 26, 60, 485, 493, 498, 331
Fletcher, John, 17, 485, 498, 329
Fletcher, Nathaniel, 102, 485, 366
Follansbee, Robert, 115, 170, 485, 368
Follansbee, Thomas, 102, 485, 491, 496, 367
Foster, Samuel, 102, 366
Frances, James, 100, 147, 497, 366
Friend, Henry, 6, 483, 319
Friend, William, 5, 23, 483, 497, 498, 317
Gerrish, Enoch, 212, 383
* Was not enrolled.
502
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
277,
Giddings, Andrew, 17, 495, 498,
Goodhue, Samuel, 241,
Goodrich, Moses, 102, 196,
Graves, Alexander, 206, 249,
Graves, Edward, 228, 270,
Graves, Henry M., 246,
Graves, William, 141, 213,
Graves, William,
Greenleaf, Thomas, 66,
Hale, Charles, 229, 236,
Hale, Eliphalet Emery, 232,
Hale, George W.,
Hale, Joshua, 206,
Hale, Moses, 10, 30, 483,
Hale, Nathaniel, 236,
Hardy, Francis D.,
Hardy, John G,
Haskell, David, 144, 227, 497,
Haskell, Stephen G.,
Hills, Joshua, 15, 483,
Hodge, Charles, 96, 225, 485, 496,
Hodge, John Sewall, 89,
Hodge, Michael, 5, 91, 138,
Holland, John, 69, 491, 495
Holland, Stephen, 73, 185
Howard, John R., 278, 310
Howard, John T.,
Hoyt, Ebenezer, 83, .
Hoyt, John C,
Hoyt, Joseph, 232, 284,
Hubbard, John, 281, 283,
Hudson, James, 6, 10.
Hughes, Joseph W., 260,
Hunt, Samuel, 115, .
Hunt, William H., 205,
Ingalls, Benjamin Pearson, 63
Ingalls, Micajah, 71,
*Jackson, Nathaniel, 146,
Janvrin, Frank A., 285, 311
Janvrin, Jos«ph A., 242,
Jaques, Jeremiah N., 209
Jenkins, George, 83, 170, 485,
Jenkins, Robert, 14, 15,
Johnson, Abel, 144, .
Johnson, Eleazer, 6, 23, 31
Johnson, Eleazer, 83, 204,
278,
483
194
485,
36o, 483, 495, 496,
PAGE
328
388
366
390
405
400
373
384
34i
409
413
402
39i
324
405
383
377
375
399
328
363
361
315
356
358
465
467
360
390
411
46S
3i8
448
368
384
340
357
466
427
384
359
325
374
322
359
♦Was not enrolled.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT 503
PAGE
Johnson, Green, 117, 496, 368
Johnson, Isaac Green, 218, 39°
Johnson, James, 14, IS. 26, 485, 498, 325
Johnson, Nicholas, 17, 485, 493, 329
Johnson, Samuel M., 382
Johnson, William Pierce, 6, 483, 493, 495, .322
Jones, Oliver O., 225, 388
Jones, Oliver O., 278, 457
Jones, Thomas, 3, 5, 483, 3*3
Kezar, Frederick A., 271, 450
Kimball, Edmund, 78, . . 359
Knap, Anthony, 6, 16, 323, 360, 485, 496, . . . . . . 322
Knap, Anthony, 284, . . . 379
Knap, Benjamin Felt, 51, 338
Knapp, Enoch, 59, 495, . . 339
Knapp, Isaac N., 214 . . 39°
Knapp, Samuel, 229, 387
Knap, William, 24, 28, 495, 33*
Knight, Daniel, 290, 386
Knight, George W., 229, 409
Knight, George Warren, 260, 287, 448
Le Breton, Peter, 42, 337
Le Breton, Peter, 94, 162, 485, 362
Le Craw, David R., 229, 410
Le Craw, William, 240, 383
Livingston, Alexander, 144, 497, 374
Lufkin, Caleb, 102, 148, 366
Lufkin, David, 102, 496, 366
Lunt, Abel, 87, 360
Lunt, George, 284, 395, 378
Lunt, Jeremiah, 230, 272, 411
Lunt, Joseph, 91, 95, 362
Lunt, Henry, 55, 85, 323, 360, 485, 496, 338
Lunt, Henry W., 271, 286, 454
Lunt, Micajah, 235, 271, 377
Lunt, Micajah, 240, 402
Lunt, William H., 393
Mackinney, Thomas, 230, ........ 410
March, John, 71, . ' . . 357
Marsh, Charles, 219, 244, 492, 399
Marshall, Henry, 295, 468
Miltimore, Andrew J., 215, 239, 394
Mitchell, William H., 139, 150, 485, 372
Moore, Frederick, , . 394
Morrison, Thomas, 99, 212, 365
Moulton, Jonathan, 73, 358
Mulliken, Moses J., 215, 310, 394
504
RECORDS AND HISTORY OF
Mulliken, Samuel G. P., 234,
Myer, James, 9\t 117, 169, 497
Newell, Richard, 273,
Newhall, Samuel, 5, 9, 483,
Newman, Joseph, 6, 31, 485
♦Newman, Wingate, 498, .
Nichols, William, 16,
Nichols, William, 117, 120, 236, 485,
Nichols, Samuel, 139, 249, 485,
Nicoll, James, 11, 6o„ 485,
Norris, Caleb W., 405,
Nowell, Nathaniel, 13, 29, 138, 483,
Nowell, Nathaniel, 214,
Nowefl, Robert, 233, 251, .
Noyes, Amos, 280, 485, ,•
Noyes, Joseph, 6, 483,
Noyes, Joseph, 73, 78,
Noyes, William, is, 171, 483, 496,
♦O'Brien, Benjamin, 485,
O'Brien, John, 51, 141 495, 498
♦O'Brien, Joseph, no, inr
Orne, William, 91,
Osgood, Nathaniel S„ 245, 286
Page David P., 234, 272,
Page, Thomas C, 219, 221, 223
Parsons, Jonathan, 6, 9, 485, 498,
Patch, Joseph, 102, 142, 228,
Pearl, Asa, 253, 270,. ..
Pearson, Isaac Green, 22, 23, 498,
Pearson, Jeremiah, 6, 25, 483, 498,
Pearson, Robert H., ,
Pender^ Robert B., . *
Perkins, Benjamin, 182, 183,
♦Perkins, Joseph, no, in,
Pettingell, Richard, 237, 497,
Picket, Richard, 144, 204, 485,
Pickett, William, 71,
Pierce, Benjamin, 91, 157
Pierce, Benjamin, 232,
Pierce, George,
Pierce, Nicholas, 69, 124,
Pike, Edmund, 175, .
Pike, Edmund J., 239, 273, 311
Pike, Enoch, 22, 23, 31,
Pike, John F., 278, 311,
Pike, Moses, 464,
♦Was not enrolled.
THE MARINE SOCIETY OF NEWBURYPORT
505
Pike, Moses, 278, 288,
Pike, Samuel Bartlett, 233, 268,
Pike, Samuel W., , , t
Pillsbury, Oliver D., 218, ,
Plummer, William, 199,
Pritchard, James K,, 237, 240, ,
Pritchard, John N., 240, .
Pritchard, Thomas, 240, , ,
Raboteau, Charles C, 63, ,
Rand, Isaac, 102, . , t
Rappall, George, 29, 35, 485, ,
Raynes, Edmund S., 232, 290, .
Reed, Charles W., 271, 310, ,
Reed, William, 237, 311, . ,
Roberts, Peter, 15, 495, 498,
Rogers, Benjamin, 5, 29, 34, 485,
Rogers, George L., 237, 256,
Rolfe, Samuel, 83, 175,
Ross, John T., 139, 208, 497,
Rowe, Joseph, 6, 21, 23, 35, 485, 495
Russell, Joseph P., 152, 217,
Russell, William, 37, 495, 498,
Sevier, Joseph, 100, .
Shoof, Henry, 285, .
Shoof, William H., 246, .
Simpson, John,
Simpson, Thomas C, 285,
Simpson, Paul, 102, 222, 485,
Small, Joseph D., 245,
Smith, Charles T., .
Smith, Thomas A., 216, 405,
Somerby, Abram,
Spaulding, George P., 253,
Spring, Henry M., 234,
Spring, John H., 269,
St. Barbe, Wyatt, 42,
Stanley, James H., 273,
Stanwood, Joseph, 17, 27,.
Stevens, Charles B., 269, .
Stevens, Paul, 78,
Stickney, David, 102, 120, .
Stickney, David, 175, 208, 485,
Stickney, William, 11, 26, 483, 496,
Stocker, Ebenezer, 26, 138, 485, 493
Stone, Daniel, 120, 176, .
Stone, Giles P., 275, .
Stone, Isaac, 91, 154, 189, 485, .
PAGE
46S
413
400
392
383
425
427
390
339
367
333
412
449
426
328
314
415
359
372
320
375
333
365
386
403
387
387
367
43i
403
376
402
441
414
401
333
455
328
401
358
367
381
324
332
368
379
362
506 records and history
PAGB
Stone, Jacob, 89, 170, 485, 361
Swap, William H., 237, 287, ........ 426
Symonds, Mark, 243, ......... 375
Tappan, Amos, 18, ... * 330
Tappan, Isaac G., 190, ......... 385
Tappan, Richard, 57, 138, 339
Toppan, Abraham, 26, 29, 332
Toppan, Sewall, 63, 187, 485, 340
Taylor, Joseph J., 278, 280, 463
Thomas, Thomas, 6, 34, 36, 54, 483, 498, 320
Thomas, William, 87, 138, 145, 360
Tileston, James, 22, 485, . . 331
Tilton, James Frank, 311, . . . . ' . . . . 440
Titcomb, Benaiah, 71, 356
Titcomb, John H., 146, 222, 485, 497, 375
Titcomb, Jonathan, 94, 327, 497, 362
Titcomb, Michael, 63, 327, 339
Titcomb, William, 197, . . . . . . . . . 376
Titcomb, Zebulon, 210, 485, 376
Todd, Francis B., 381
Tracy, Thomas, 30, 40, 53, 333
Tyler, Joseph, 102, 485, 367
Tyng, Charles, 281, 382
Varina, Nicholas, 286, - 401
Walton, Samuel, 231, ......... 400
Wheelwright, Abraham, 69, 210, 485, 495, 342
White, Ambrose H., 286, 385
Wigglesworth, Edward, 3, 5, 483, 498, 317
Wiley, John, 78, 491, 495, 359
Williams, William, 142, 192, . . . • 373
Wills, John, 142, 182, 496, 373
Wills, John N., 222, 381
Wingate, Edmund, 57, 63, 339
Wood, Jeremiah P., 175, 380
Woodman, Joseph Hills, 78, 358
Woods, George L., 234, 286, ' . . 415
Wyatt, Benjamin, 66, 212, 485, 340
Wyer, William, 3, 5, 313
Young, Israel, 71, 113, 138, 485, 495, 356
Young, Jeremiah, 99, 121, 197, 485, 365
Young, Jonathan, 78, 491, 359
Young, Timothy, . . . . 386
yrr
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