Full text of "History of New Bedford and its vicinity, 1620-1892"

974.402

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1136134

GENEALOGY

COLLECTiOK

3 1833 01145 6289

I (f/3A»t^vJZ^ -i

HISTORY

NEW Bedford

AND ITS

VICIN ITY

1602-1892.

>NARD BOLLES ELLIS

SYRACUSE, N. Y.
D. MASON & CO., Publishers.

PREFACE.

1136134

IT has been a pleasure for many years to delve among the arch-
ives of m\' native city, and from its historic treasures to gather
records of incidents and events which occurred in the early j'ears
when it was a part of the ancient township of Dartmouth ; to glean
from rare documents and papers interesting facts that bear upon its
entire history ; and to receive from aged lips, now forever silent,
well authenticated traditions and stories of local interest. With the
kindly assistance of many fellow citizens, this collection of historic
material has been largely extended, and is now presented in this
volume. It has been my endeavor to give a faithful history of
New Bedford and its vicinity.

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I.

FOUNDING AND DESTRUCTION OF DARTMOUTH.

Bartholomew Grosnold'H Voyage — Coming of the Pilgrims — Purchase of the
Territory of Dartmouth from Massasoit and Wamsutta — Copy of the Deed^Allot-
ments of Territory — John Cooke's Settlement — Relations of the Colonists with the
Indians — Outrages upon the Natives — Cause of the Indian Outbreak — Destruction
of the Town —An Early Burial Ground — Location of Block Houses — Thrilling Ex-
periences — Ancient Ruins

CHAPTER n.

THE QUAKERS.

Characteristics of the Quakers — Their Reception in Massachusetts Bay — Trans-
fer of their Peculiarities from England to the Colonies — Reasons for Strife be-
tween Quakers and Colonists — Difference of Attitude in Massachusetts Bay and in
Plymouth Towards the Quakers — Catalogue of Persecutions of Quakers — Appeal
to the Crown — The Trial and its Decision in favor of the Quakers — Loyalty of the
Quakers

CHAPTER HI.

AFTER THE KING THILIP WAR.

Freemen of 1670 — Increase of Population — Early Officials — Town Proceedings
— Early Roadways— Those who took the Freeman's Oath in 1686— The First
Meeting House — Organization of the Monthly Meeting — Early Methods of Punish-
ing Malefactors — Bonnties for Killing Wild Animals — Early Educational Measures
— Building of a Town House— Agitation of Town Division — Records of Soldiers. . . 43

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER IV.

BEDFORD VILLAGE.

Founding of Bedford Village — Joseph Russell's Purchase — John Loudon's
Settlement— Benjamin Taber— Other Early Residents— Beginning of the Whale
Fishery- The Rotch Family— Extracts from Early Dartmouth Records 56

CHAPTER V.

DARTMOUTH IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

The Tea Tax and its Consequences — Opposition of the Colonies to the Mother
Country —Approach of War — Dartmouth Soldiers on the March — Local Naval
Operations — Story from the Pope Manuscript — Exploit of the Sloop i^aZcora —
The Battle in Buzzard's Bay — Bunker Hill — Dartmouth's Records of the Revo-
lution — Town Meeting Proceedings Relating to the War 65

CHAPTER VI.

REVOLUTIONARY HISTORY CONTINUED.

A Celebrated Cipher Letter — Rev. Dr. Samuel West Deciphers it— A Modern
Document — Captain Kempton and His Kindness — Many Quaint and Interesting
Documents — Rolls of Dartmouth Soldiers — Location of Whippmg Posts — Price
of Provision.s, etc 80

CHAPTER VII.

PRIVATEERING IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

Characteristics and Attractions of Privateering — The Extent of this Species of
Warfare — Dartmouth's Part in It — Beginning of the U. S. Navy — Extracts
from the Stoddard Papers — Sir Peter Parker's Fleet — Details of Spirited Con-
tests 97

CHAPTER VIII.

THE BRITISH INVASION.

Dartmouth's Loyalty— Defenceless Condition of the Town — Anticipatory Prepa-
rations — Operations at Newport — The British Fleet and Forces — Terror of the In-
habitants — Authentic Incidents of the Invasion — Burning of the Town — Bloodshed
— Feeble Defence — The Enemy at Fairhaven 109

CONTENTS. 9

CHAPTER IX.

THE BRITISH INVASION CONTINUED.

Further Destruction— The Traitor ;Tupper— A Famous Bible — Suffering and
Want that Followed the Invasion — Wretched Condition of the Township after the
Raid 128

CHAPTER X.

FROM 1779 TO 181O.

Town Proceedings During and After the War — Prices of Provisions — The Qua-
kers in Relation to the War — Incorporation of the Town and First Officers — Divis-
ion of the Town — Opening of Streets— The Small-pox — Measures for its Exter-
mination — The First Newspaper — Early Advertisements — Primitive Modes of
Travel — Difficulties of Early Maritime Operations--Public Events of the Period. . 141

CHAPTER XI.

THE WAR OF l8l2.

England's Disregard of the Rights of the United States — Impressment of Ameri-
can Seamen — The Embargo Act and its Effects- -Opposition to it in New England
— Political Strife between Bedford and Fairhaven — Declaration of War — Its Effect
upon New Bedford— Measures for Defence— The Constitution and Lieutenant Parker
— Two Useless Gunboats — The British Brig Nimrod — The ''Wagon Brigade." .... 158

CHAPTER XII.
WAR OF 1812 CONTINUED.

Privateering — New Bedford Harbor a Haven for Privateers and Prizes — The
Yankee — Resolutions of the People Concerning Privateering — Defenceless Condi-
tion of New Bedford, and the Consequences — Doings of the Nimrod— Xhe Revenge-
Retaliation — Bombardment of Falmouth — Militia Defenders — Attitude of the
Friends — False Alarms — The Attack of June 13, 1 814 — Details of the Affair —
Further Depredations — More of the Nimrod — Opinions of William C. Bryant
— A Sad Incident 178

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER XIII.

DARTMOOR PRISON.

An Interesting Memento — Impressment of American Seanieu — Arrival in New
Bedford Harbor of Cartel Ship — A Fragmentary Account of the Arrival — Charles
Andrevr's Journal — Partial List of SiifTerers — Thrilhng Personal Accounts —
Joseph Bates's Account — • Captain McKenzie's Narrative — Militia Rosters of 1814

— Peace — Enthusiastic Celebration 197

CHAPTER XIV.

AFTER THE WAR OF 1812-I5.

A Restro.spective View — A Lucid Description of the Buildings and Streets —
The Great September Gale — Organization of the Bedford Commercial Bank —
Amusements — The Bible Society — Military Matters — Fourth of July, 1 823

— Temperance — First Great Fire — Merchants of 1820 — Important Occurrences — •
Necrological Record of First Quarter of the Century 231

CHAPTER XV.
1826-30.

"Hard Dig" — A Mysterious Murder — .\Iol> Law — "The Ark' — Origin of the
Name— Story of the First Ark Riot— A Second Ark— The Second Riot— The Mer-
cury's Account of the Affair — Action of the People, in Town Meeting Assembled,
Regarding the Riots— The " Committee of Vigilance "—The Militia 245

CHAPTER XVI.

1830 TO 1840.

Events of Interest — The Cholera — Financial Distress — Disastrous Fire — Mili-
taiy Matters — Disorganization of the Militia — Divers Events — The First Direc-
tory—The Pacific Insurance Company— Notable Deaths 266

CHAPTER XVII.

FROM 1840 TO INCORPORATION OF THE CITY.

Small-pox— The Athenaeum— Notable Events— Death of President Harrison-
Proposal to Change Form of Local Government— The New Bedford Guards—
Their Uniform — Their First Parade — Their Excursions, Receptions, Visits and
Parades — The Old Militia — The Last Parade — A Humorous Incident — Dissolution
of the Guards— The Parker House— Assistance to Fall River Sufferers— Adoption
of City Charter — Necrology — Selectmen 1812-46 — Street Extension 279

CONTENTS. , ,

CHAPTER XVIII.

FROM THE INCORPORATION OF THE CITY TO THE CIVIL WAR.

Adoption of City Charter — First Officers Under the New Government — Inaugu-
ration Ceremonies — Events of Interest — The Dudley Davenport Fire — Summary of
Events— Burning of Liberty Hall— Effects of the Fugitive Slave Law— the How-
land Street Riot— The Water Street Fire— Opening of New Street.^— Necrology . , 300

CHAPTER XIX.

NEW BEDFORD IN THE CIVIL WAR.

Loyalty of New Bedford — Early Response to the Fir.st Call for Troops — De-
parture and Service of the City Guards — The Roster— Harbor Defences — The
Ladies' Relief vSociety — Company D, Twenty-third Regiment — Fifth Battery — The
Stone Fleet— The Thirty-third Regiment— The Thirty-eighth Regiment— The Third
Regiment M. V. M. — The Fifty-fourth Regiment — New Bedford's Maritime
Losses — Company B, Third Heavy ArtiUlery — Company B, Fourth Cavalry — The
Fifty-eighth Regiment — Peace — The Assa.xsination of President Lincoln — The
Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument — New Bedford in the Navy — Lieut. W. P. Ran-
dall and the Cumberland — Thomas Almy of the Wachusett — The Tecumseh Incident
— Naval Officers from New Bedford 31g

CHAPTER XX.

FROM THE CIVIL WAR TO THE PRESENT.

The Two-Hundredth Anniversary and its Celebration— Address sent to Dart-
mouth, England — Establishment of Water Works— Development of Manufactures
— Minor Incidents— Fourth of July Celebration in 1876 — Bstablisbraent of Various
Manufacturing Institutions — Necrology — Statistics of Growth — City Officers from *•

1847 to 1891 366

CHAPTER XXI.

TOWNS ADJOINING NEW BEDFORD.

Original Territory of Dartmouth — The Act of Separation — Fairhaven — West-
port — Dartmouth — Acushnet 391

12 CONTENTS.

CHAPTER XXII.

THE WHALING INDUSTRY.

Beginning of the Industry — Early Whale Fishing in Massachusetts — Orders
and Rules Governing the Fishing — The Industry at Nantucket — The First Sperm
Whale — The Havoc Made by French and Spanish Privateers — Founding of the
Industry at Dartmouth — Log Boak of the fie/sey — Expense of Fitting Out-
Records Previous to the Revolution — Unjust Restrictions — Burke's Defence of
the Whalers — British Invasion — Re-establishment of the Industry by the Rotch
Family — Prosperity — The War of 1812 and its Discouraging Effects — Rapid In-
crease of V^essels and Financial Success of the Industry up to 1858 — Effect of the
California Gold Discovery on Whaling— Petroleum— The War of the Rebellion and
the Losses Occasioned by It — Renewal of Whaling after the War — The Disaster
of 1871— The Calamity of 1876 — The First Steam Whaler— Thrilling Expe-
rience- Hon. Weston Howland's Account — Incidents — Profitable Voyages. 401

CHAPTER XXIII.

MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES.

Character of Early Mechanics — John Loudon's Ship Yard, 1760 — First Me-
chanics — New Bedford as a Cotton Manufacturing City — Population — Capital
Invested — Number of Establishments and Employees — Value of Manfactured
Product — Brief Sketches of Various Industries — The Wamsutta Mills — Their
Growth and Development — The Potomska Mills — The Acushnet Mills — The
Hathaway Manufacturing Company — The City Manufacturing Company — The
New Bedford Manufacturing Company — The Rowland Mill Corporation — The
Bennett Manufacturing Company — The Grinnell Manufacturing Corporation —
The Oneko Woolen Mills — Early Cordage Factory — The New Bedford Cordage
Company — The Manufacture of Oil — First Try Houses — Early Oil and Candle
Factories — Advent of Petroleum — Modern Methods — Present Oil Works —
Manufacture of Glass — Silverware — Toys and Novelties — Art Manufactures —
Early Shoe Factories — Present Boot and Shoe Factories, etc 453

CHAPTER XXIV.

TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES, ETC.

The First Railroad — Particulars of its Construction — Its Opening to the Pub-
lic — The Road to Fall River — Express Business in New Bedford — The First
Telegraph Line — Introduction of the Telephone 495

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER XXV.

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS OF NEW BEDFORD.

New Bedford as a Financial Center — Elements of its Monetary Stability —
The First Banking Institutions — Other State and National Banks — Savings
Institutions — Board of Trade 509

CHAPTER XXVI.

THE PRESS OF NEW BEDFORD.

An Early Field for Journalism — The First Publication in New Bedford —
Extracts from Its Contents — The Second Newspaper — Other Early Journals
— The Newspapers of the Present Day 622

CHAPTER XXVH.

■RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS.

The First Congregational Church of New Bedford — The North Congrega-
tional Church ^ Trinitarian Church — County Street M. E. Church — Fourth
Street M. E. Church— The Pleasant Street M. E. Church— The Allen Street
M. B. Church — The Primitive M. E. Church — Portuguese M. E. Church - Sec-
ond Baptist Church — The Salem Baptist Church — The Bethel African M. E. Zion
Church — The Society of Friends — Grace Episcopal Church — St. James Episco-
pal Church — North Christian Church — Spruce Street Christian Church — Chris-
tian Scientists — Church of the Sacred Heart — St. Hyacinthe Parish- Latter-
Day Saints — St. John Baptist Church (Portuguese) — Ladies' City Mission and
Early Tract and Missionary Societies — Seaman's Bethel and Port Society — First
Presbyterian Church — Rockdale Free Chapel — Cannonville Chapel — Extinct
Churches — Charitable and Benevolent Organizations 532

CHAPTER XXVHI.

THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS OF NEW BEDFORD.

Means for the Maintenance of First Schools — "Pauper" Schools — Final
Adoption of Free Schools — Establishment of the High School — Closing of the
High School — Re-establishment of the High School — Grading of the Schools —
School Visitors — Harrington Training School — Evening Schools — The Sylvia
Ann Howland Educational Fund — Review of Public Education — Cost of Public
Schools — The Swain Free School — The Friend's Academy — The Aimwell
School — The Free Public Library — The New Bedford Lyceum 608

14 CONTENTS.

CHAPTER XXIX.

BENCH AND BAR.

Judicial System of the Early Settlers — Primitive Civil Groveriiment — Recourse
to Courts — First Attorneys — First Mention of Attorneys by the Legislature —
Early Laws Governing Attorneys — Paul Dudley Appointed Chief Justice — Legal
Character of the Early Bench — Bristol County Lawyers in 1767 — Members of
the Bristol Bar in 1779 — The "Old Colony Bar Association" — Members of the
Bar in New Bedford in 1834 — Incorporation of Bristol County — Seth Pope, First
Justice of the Peace — Thomas Taber — Samuel Willis — Sessions of the Early
Courts — New Bedford Established as a Half Shire Town — First Court of Com-
mon Pleas — County Buildings, Court House, Jail, etc. — First Police Court —
Nathaniel S. Spooner — Present Court House — Present Courts — Early Judges —
Edward Pope — -Early Lawyers — Timothy G. Coffin — John S. Russell — Lemuel
Williams — Charles H. Warren — Ezra Bassett — Thomas D. Eliot — Adam Mackie
— H. G. O. Colby — J. H. W. Page — Joshua G. Stone — John H. Williams- Oli-
ver Prescott — George Marston — Lincoln F. Brigham — Robert C. Pitman —
Alanson Borden — Short Sketches of Present Lawyers 6

CHAPTER XXX.

THE MEDICAL PROFESSION.

Formation of Massachusetts Medical Societ}' — Its Membership — District So-
cieties — Incorporation of Southern District Medical Society — Change of Name
to Bristol South District Medical Society — Physicians of New Bedford Members
of State Society Prior to 1839 — First Physicians in the Town — Benjamin Burg
— Daniel Hathaway — Elisha Tobey — Samuel Perry — Samuel Perry, jr. —
Ebenezer Perry — Samuel West — William C. Whitridge — Alexander Reed —
Elijah Colby — Julius S. Mayhew — Paul Spooner — Aaron Cornish — Lyman Bart-
lett — Andrew Mackie — Henry Johnson— ; John H.Jennings — Charles L. Swa.«:ey
— William A. Gordon — .John H. Mackie

CHAPTER XXXI.

THE FIRE DEPARTMENT OF NEW BEDFORD.

The First Fire Engine, Independence No. 1 — Citizen No. 2 —The " Jolly Rope-
maker," Phoenix No. 4 — Oxford No. 2 — Flood No. 1 of Fairhaven — Columbia
No. 3 of Fairhaven — The Bedford Fire Society — Fire Districts and Firewards

CONTENTS.

— Engines Nos. 3 and 4 — Mechanic No. 6 — Battering Rams — Columbian No. 5

— First Engine at the Head-of- the- River — Novelty No. 8 — Failure of Interest
in Fire Matters — Reorganization — Philadelphia No. 7 — Hancock No. 9 and
Franklin No. 10 — Membership of Companies at Organization of City Grovernment

— Demoralization and Reorganization — Disastrous Fires — Ohio No. 3 — Dis-
banding of Columbian No. .5 — Young Mechanic No. 6 — Veteran Association of
Firemen — Palmy Days — Young America No. 8 — Hook and Ladder Companies

— The Introduction of Steam — Onward No. 1 — Disbandment of Hand Engine
Companies — Progress Steamer No. 2 — Excelsior Steamer No. 3 — Cornelius
Howland No. 4— Franklin Hose No. 1 — Frederick Macy No. 6 — The Firemen's
Mutual Aid Society — Firemen's Beneficial Association — The Protecting Society

— Hook and Ladder Truck No. 1 — La France Hook and Ladder Truck — Steamer
No. 7 — Boards of Engineers ^

CHAPTER XXXII.

MUSICAL ORGANIZATIONS OF NEW BEDFORD.

The First Musical Organization — The Philharmonic Society and its Career — -
Introduction of Music in the Public Schools — Organization of the Choral Union
— The Gentlemen's Amateur Glee Club — New Bedford in the Peace Jubilee —
Organization of Choral Association — The World s Peace Festival, etc (

CHAPTER XXXIII.

VARIOUS PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS.

The Police Force — Post-office — City Alms-house — Public Amusements —
Cemeteries — Police Department, Military, etc., etc

PART II.

BIOGRAPHICAL 1

APPENDIX 123

INDEX 139

HISTORY

NEW BEDFORD

CHAPTER I.

FOUNDING AND DESTRUCTION OF DARTMOUTH.

Bartholomew Gosnold's Voyage — Coming of the Pilgrims— Purchase of the Ter-
ritory of Dartmouth from Massasoit and Wamsutta — Copy of the Deed — Allot-
ments of Territory — John Cooke's Settlement — Relations of the Colonists with the
Indians — Outrages upon the Natives — Cause of the Indian Outbreak — Destruction
of the Town — An Early Burial Ground— Location of Block Houses — Thrilling Ex-
periences — Ancient Ruins.

THE history of New Bedford as a definite part of the Commoii-
wealth of Massachusetts, and of the old town of Dartmouth,
would properly begin with the record that, in the year 1765, Joseph
Rotch, who had previously settled on the Island of Nantucket, came
here with his capital, energy, and enterprise to establish himself in the
whaling business. He found here upon his arrival a little hamlet, com-
prising among its inhabitants Joseph Russell, John Loudon, ship build
ers ; Benjamin Taber, block maker and boat builder; Gideon Mosher,
mechanic ; Elnathan Sampson, blacksmith. Under the impulse of these
sturdy pioneers, Bedford village was founded and grew.

But in order that the reader may gain a comprehensive idea of the
immediate locality and of the influences leading to its settlement, it is
important to note briefly the march of events for a considerable period
prior to the date above recorded, some of which were of vital importance.

1 8 HISTOR \ OF XE IF BEDFORD.

not only to the settlement of the locality with which this work is
conceined, but to the early settlement of the Atlantic coast and the
birth of freedom in the New World.

In 1602 Bartholomew Gosnold, with a company of adventurers, sailed
in the ship Concord from Falmouth, England, in quest of a more direct
route to America than had been traversed by the earlier explorers, and
also to establish a plantation on the coast Rounding Cape Cod, which
he named from the abundance of fish he observed near the shores, Gos-
nold landed on the west end of an island which he named Eh'zabeth, in
honor of the English Queen. This island is known to the present genera-
tion as Cuttyhunk. On a little islet in the pond on that island he
built a fort and store-house, and a flat- bottomed boat with v\hicli to
reach them.

While these operations were going on, Gosnold, being desirous of
seeing the main land, took several of his companions with him in his
bark, crossed the " stately sound " and landed on the shore near Round
Hills. They were cordially received by a company of Indians, men,
women, and children, who made them presents of " skins of wild beasts,
tobacco, sassafras root, turtles, hemp, artificial strings colored (wampum),
and such like things." Gosnold found these natives " a fair conditioned
people " and " the main the goodliest continent he had ever seen, prom-
ising more b}' far than we any way did expect, for it is replenished w ith
fair fields and with fragrant flowers, also meadows, and hedged in with
stately groves, being furnished also with pleasant brooks and beautified
with two main rivers."

It was this company of adventurers under the leadership of Gosnold,
"an active, intrepid and experienced seaman from the west of Eng
land," that may be properly deemed the advance guard in the march
of civilization to New England, and their visit to the shores of Dart-
mouth as the beginning of its history.

In 1620 the Mayflotver came to the shores of New England, bring-
ing the colony of sturdy men and women who, for conscience's sake,
had fled from their native land. Amid hardship and suffering, the new
nation was born that now holds dominion from ocean to ocean. Other
vessels, immortalized in history, followed with their companies of people
who shared in the early experiences-and honors of the new Common-

PURCHASE OF DARTMOUTH. ,9

wealth founded at Plymouth. Following these came the colonists who
settled in Salem in 1628, and those of Massachusetts Bay in 1630.

From these and from subsequent settlements went out the bands of
pioneers who penetrated the wilderness and forests of New England,
who pushed their way to the coast of the Narragansett and Buzzard's
Bay, established their homes and farms, and dwelt among the Indians
who for many years were the unswerving friends of the white men, but
who, from varied causes, later on became bitter and relentless fots.
The friendly attitude of the Indian tribes made it possible to establish
centers of civilized communities, and in due time the towns of Duxbury,
Scituate, Middleboro, Taunton, and Dartmouth came into existence.

In 1652 the territory of Dartmouth was purchased of the good Mass-
asoit and his son Wamsutta, and the deed was recorded in 1664. It
reads as follows :

" New Plymouth. November the 29, 1G.=>2.

"Know all men by these presents, that I, Wesamequen and Wamsutta my son have
sold unto Mr. William Bradford, Captain Standish, Thomas Southwonh, John Winslow,
John Cook, and other associates, the purchasers or old-comers, all the tract or tracts of
land lying three miles eastward from a river called Cushenagg, to a certain harbor called
Acoaksett, to a flat rock on the westward side of the said harbor.

" And whereas the said harbor divideth itself into several branches, the westermost
arme to be bound, and all tract, or tracts of land from the said westermost arme of the
said river of Cushenagg, three miles east of the same, with all the protits and benefiis
within the said tract, with all the rivers, creeks, meadows, necks and islands that he in
or before the same, and from the sea upward to go so high tliat the English may not be
annoyed by the hunting of the Indians, in any sort of their cattle. And I, Wesamequen
and Wamsutta do promise to remove all the Indians within a year from the dale hereof
that do live in said tract. And we the said Wesamequen and Wamsutta have fully
bargained and sold to the aforesaid Mr. WilHam Bradford, Captain Standish, Thomas
Southworlh, John Winslow, John Cook, and the rest of their associates or old-comeis
to have and to hold for them and their heirs and assi'j:nees forever.

" And in consideration hereof we the above mentioned are to pay to the said Wesa-
mequen and Wamsutta as followeth :

''Thirty yards of cloth, eight moose skins, fifteen a.xes, tifteen hoes, fifteen pairs of
breeches, eight blankets, two kettles, one cloth, £22 in wampum, eight pairs stockings,
eight pairs of shoes, one iron pot, and ten .shillings in another oommoditie.

"And in witness hereof we have interchangeably set to our hands the day and year
above written. In the presence ot, Jonathan Shaw, Samuel Eddy.

" John Cookk,
John Winslow,
His
Wamsutta M\ N\''

20 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

In this connection is also found the following document in records of
deeds, Plymouth Colony, book 2, page 107.

" The names of those who by order of the purchasers met at Plymouth the seventh
day of March, 1652, who by joint consent and agreement of the said purchasers are to
have their parts, shares or proportions at the place or places commonly called and known
by the names Aoushena, alias Aoquessent. which entereth at the western end of Weeck-
atay and to Coaksett, alias Acoakus, and places adjacent, to extend three miles to the
eastward of the most easterly part of the river or bay called Coaksett, lying on the west
side of Point Pritt ' and to the most westermost side of any branch of the aforesaid
river, and to extend eight miles into the woods, the said tract or tracts of land so
bounded as above said, which is purchased of the Indians, which were the right pro-
prietors thereof, as appears by a deed under their hands, with all marshes, meadows,
rivers, waters, woods, timbers, and other profits, privileges, emunities, commodities and
appurtenances belonging to the said tract or tracts above expressed, or any part or par-
cel thereof to belong unto the parties whose names are underwritten who are in number
thirty-four whole parts or shares, and no more, to them and their heirs and assignees
forever.

" Mr. William Bradford, one whole part or share. Captain Standish, Mr. John Al-
den, Mr. Collier and Sarah Brewster, Mr. Rowland and William Bassett, George Mor-
ton, Mannasses Kempton, James Hurst, John Dunham, sr., John Shaw, sr., Francis
Cooke, John Cooke, Joshua Pratt, George Soule, Constant Southworth, Thomas
Southworth, Miss Jennings, Steven Tracye, John Faunce, Henry Sampson, Philip
Delanoye. Mi.ss Warren, Robert Bartlett, William Palmer, Edward Dotye, Samuel
Hickes, Peter Browu, Francis Sprague, Moses Simons, Samuel Eaton, Thomas Morton,
Samuel Culbert, Edward Holman, Edward Bumpus. in all thirty-four shares."

These were the owners of the whole township of Dartmouth in the
year 1652. There were, however, a number of settlers in the township
prior to that date. The town of Dartmouth was incorporated in 1664,
and sent its first representative, John Russell, to the General Court at
Plymouth.

John Cooke, a prominent figure in the early history of Dartmouth,
was one of the boys of the Pilgrim Colony, and came to this country
with his father, Francis Cooke, in the Mayflower, in 1620. He was a
Baptist preacher and was the only one of the original grantees who
became a resident in the town. He represented the town at Plym-
outh Court for six years, was authorized to make contracts of iPar-
riage, to administer oaths and perform other legal duties, that made
Jiim one of the important men of the town. His home was located in

I Gooseberry Neck (Point Prill.)

DESTRUCTIOX OF DARTMOUTH. 21

Oxford Village, Fairhaven, and its ruins formed the meeting place for
Church's soldiers in the prosecution of King Philip's war. Cooke's
garrison, of which I shall speak later, was named for him. He died in
1694, and was buried on Burial Hill, Oxford Point, Fairhaven.

In 1675 the township of JDartmouth was destroyed by the Indians,
its inhabitants put to merciless torture and many of them slaughtered in
cold blood, while their houses were burned and their farms pillaged.
Those who escaped fled to the garrisons for protection and safety. This
grave condition of affairs was recognized by the Ph-niouth Court, and
the following order was passed October 14, 1675 :

" This Couit taking into their serious consideration the tremendous dispensations of
God toward the people of Dartmouth in sufFering the barbarous heathen to spoil and
destroy most of their habitations, the enemy being greatly advantaged thereunto by the
unsettled way of living, do therefore order that in the rebuilding and resetthng thereof,
tliat they so order it as to live compact together, at least in each village as they may be
in a capacity both to defend themselves from the assault of an enemy, and the better to
attend the public worship of God and the ministry of the word of God, whose careless-
ness to obtain and to attend unto we fear may have been a provocation of God thus to
chastise their contempt of his gospel, which we earnestly desire the people of that place
may seriously consider of, lay to heart, and be humbled for, with a solicitous endeavor
after a reformation thereof, by a vigorous putting forth to obtain an able, faithful dis-
penser of the word of God amongst them, and to encourage them therein, the neglect
whereof this Court, as they may and must, God willing, they will not permit for the
future." — Booh 5t.h, Court Orders, page 102.

The demorahzation of the township was so complete that for a num-
ber of years taxes were suspended and the unfortunate people relieved
of many burdens. With the death of King Philip terminated the diffi-
culties with the Indians in this vicinity, the courage of the people began
to kindle and the town again took new life.

To comprehend the train of events that culminated in such fearful
disasters to the early towns, and especially to Dartmouth, it is impor-
tant to investigate the relations of the colonists with the Indians from the
earliest period. The difficulties that beset the Pilgrims in their earliest
history were manifold in character and perplexing in the highest de-
gree. Fleeing from persecution and outrage in the old world, they met
at the very threshold of the new, experiences fraught with suffering,
privation, want and death. They found themselves in a land not their
'own ; with little or no knowledge of its people ; with no organization

22 HISTORY OF XEW BEDFORD.

save that of the compact made on the Mayflower ; and with tlie broad
ocean between them and the strong arm of civil and judicial govern-
ment. The severity of the climate, the hardness of the soil, and the
terrible uncertainties of the future, the successions of sickness and dis-
aster, the oppression of isolation, and the distance from their former
homes and scenes made the stoutest heart tremble with evil forebod-
ings. To all this was added a problem that required nearlj^ a century
for its solution, and which continues even to the present time in a meas-
ure unsolved — a problem loaded with disgrace and inju.stice meted out
to the native of the forest.

In 1614, six years before the arrival of the Pilgrims, the master of a
ship belonging to Capt. John Smith's expedition had come to " fit for
Spain with the dried fish," and added to the cargo " four and twenty
poore salvages," whom they carried to Malaga, where they undertook to
sell them into slavery. Many of these were rescued from an untimely fate
by Spanish friars, who gave them instruction, treated them as brothers,
and taught them in their religious faith. Again, just before the Pil-
grims set up their colony at Plymouth, an English captain had enticed
a company of Indians on board his vessel and shot them down in cold
blood. Regardless of the fact that the early Jesuits had received from
the Indians only the kindest treatment, and that Hudson and Champlain
were similarly received in the early years of the seventeenth century,
the latter opened fire upon the natives near the lake that bears his name
and was, according to his journal, " highly pleased at the astonishment
and fear created among the few Indians who appeared to him by the
sound of the guns and the sudden death of some of their number."
Similar treatment was accorded the natives in other parts of the New
World ; and the tale might be indefinitely continued.

It is not to be wondered at that three months elapsed after their ar-
rival before the Pilgrims saw the faces of the natives of the soil, and
when the Indians told their stories of outrage the reasons were clearly
apparent why they had delayed so long in communicating with the
whites. " For," says Governor Bradford, " by all which it may appear
how far these people were from peace and with what danger this plan-
tation is begun."

Prejudged from the very beginning, the early settlers were destined

'^-^^l^/^ <^ <^i tr7>-^-~'

CAUSE OF THE INDIA X OUTBREAK. 23

to suffer untold violence and horrible torture from the Indians ; but
their own acts of injustice, their occupation and possession of the land
that had been the home and hunting-ground of the natives, went far to
intensify the troublesome condition of affairs. From 1623 to 1675
there was a succession of disturbances between the colonists and the
Indians. Without doubt the encroachments on their lands, the enmity
springing out of the attempt of the English to settle the disputes of
the Indians, the frequent acts of injustice and wrong by the white men
— all these causes and more, assisted in bringing on the clash of arms.
It must be remembered that while the tomahawk, the scalping-knife,
and the bow and arrow were the cardinal weapons of the Indians, they
had early learned how to use the gun and were well supplied with
firearms at the time.

The immediate cause of the outbreak that brought such disaster to
Dartmouth was the murder of Sassamon, a friendly Indian, who, being
in King Philip's confidence, had visited Plymouth and revealed to the
authorities Philip's hostile intentions. He learned that for a considera-
ble period King Philip had been maturing plans for a general destruc-
tion of the English settlements. His revelations were at first received
with incredulity by the authorities, as matters had for some time been
of a peaceful character. They, however, decided to investigate, and in
a few days sent for King Philip to appear at Plymouth. This summons
not being responded to, it was learned that Sassamon had been mur-
dered and his body thrown under the ice into the pond at Middlebor-
ough. The suspected Indians were arrested, tried before an English
jury and condemned.' Two d lys before their execution, April 8, 1675,
war dances were held by the Indians (Sagonites) ; and the day after,
the squaw sachem, Weetamoo, met Captain Church on Rhode Island
and told him that Philip intended to begin a war on the English settle-
ments, and had already granted authorit)' to his people to kill the cat-
tle of the settlers. -

1 Josiah Winslow states that these Indians acknowledged the fairness of their trial, and one of
them confessed the ctXme.—Mass. Hist, d'li, I, 428.

2 "Philip, better known as Metacomet, was king of the Pokanokets, a tribe occupying that tract
of country about Bristol and Mount Hope, and extending to Little Compton. When our Pilgrim
Fathers landed at Plymouth in 1620 the good Massasoit was king, he who greeted them with a cor-
dial welcome, and with whom friendly relations were maintained during hi.s life. He was sue-

24 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

These events were full of significance, and foreshadowed the attacks
upon the settlements. The soldiery of the Plymouth and Massachu-
seits Hay colonies were being marshaled to resist the savages, but this
could not stay the terrible tragedies that ensued. Philip, with his 500
warriors (Pokanokets) and supported by 800 Narragansett Indians, was
soon on the war path. Hostilities began on the 29th of June, 1675
(N. S.), with the burning of two houses at Swansea, and then followed
in quick succession the attacks upon Middleborough, Taunton, Reho-
both, Dartmouth, and other towns. Many of the inhabitants were put
to death, while others suffered " exquisite torments and inhumane bar-
barities." Farms and plantations were destroyed' and cattle killed or
brutally mutilated. Many of the townships were destroyed and among
them that of Dartmouth. Drake says : " They burnt nearly thirty
houses in Dartmouth (a place in New Plymouth Colony), killing many
people after a most barbarous manner, as skinning them all over alive,
some only their heads, cutting off their hands and feet; but any woman
they took alive they defiled, afterward putting her to death by some of
these or the like waj's."

Increase Mather's account states : " Dartmouth did they burn with
fire and barbarously murdered both men and women ; stripping the
slain, whether men or women, and leaving them in the open field as
naked as in the day wherein they were born. Such, also, is their inhu-
manity as that they flay off the skin from their faces and heads of those
tlie>' get into their hands, and go awa)' with the hairy scalp of their
enemies."

The scattered condition of the inhabitants of Dartmouth made them
an easy prey, and their sufterings were extreme. Those who escaped
the tomahawk and scalping knife fled to the garrisons for safet}- and
protection There were three of these, one on the north bank of the
Apponagansett River, another near the shore just north of the present
site of the Riverside cemetery in Fairhaven, and the tiiird was on

ceeded by Alexander, the eldest of his two sons. Plottings against the English commenced during
his brief reign, and culminated in open war when Philip came into power. The immediate cause
of the outbreak was the hanging of three Indians for the murder of John Sassamon, who had been
secretary and chief counselor of King Philip, and had become a professed convert of the Indian
apostle, John Elliot. Through him the English obtained much information of King Philip's
plots, which so enraged him that he sought Sassamon's death, whom he considered a rebel and
traitor. " — Drake.

LOCATION OF GARRISONS. 25

Palmer's Island. The defemlers of these garrisons were few in number,
but every man was a soldier, and with matchlock, sword, and hatchet,
defended his loved ones from the enemy.

The garrison on the north bank of the Apponagansett was known as
Russell's garrison, and was situated about a mile from the mouth of the
river on the land now (1892) owned by Captain Charles Gifford. The
cellars are still as clearly defined as when visited by JDrake in 1827.
The space indicates that the house was about twenty feet square, with
an ell on the south about ten feet square Years ago there were walls
of rude masonry about four feet high, with an exit on tlie northeast
corner, leading to a brook near by On the opposite side of the river,
and a little to the southward, is Heath's Neck, where were located an
Indian fort and settlement.

The Cooke garrison was situated at Oxford Village in Fairhaven, on
land now owned by John M. Howland. Its exact location is on the
north side of Coggeshall street, six hundred feet from Main street, and
on the northwest corner of what is known to- day as the Garrison Lot.
A short distance to the southwest is a bountiful spring of water that,
no doubt, supplied the inhabitants of the garrison. Thirty years ago
the entire field was graded and the excavation filled up. At that time
the walls were in good preservation, and from the cellar many valuable
relics were taken that are still in possession of the Howland family.
Among them were three pewter spoons with iron handles, a number of
arrow heads, flint stones from which it is evident that arrow heads had
been chipped ; several stone tomahawks, a cylindrical block of stone ten
inches long that was probably used in crushing corn, a small deer horn,
a boar tusk, fish hook, stone chisel, and, what is more curious than all,
an iron key eight inches long, rude in construction and corroded with
rust.

About five hundred feet from this garrison, and near the shore, was an
Indian settlement and burying ground, the latter a mound seventeen feet
high. Forty five years ago a number of skeletons were here unearthed.
Among them was one in sitting posture, with elbows on the knees,
wampum wound about the wrists, and a brass kettle over the head. The
western vieiv from the garrison lot is one of surpassing beauty.

A quarter of a mile northeast of the garrison lot, near the junction

26 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

of Main street and the back road (the original highway leading into the
village of Fairhaven), was located the house of John Cooke, before men-
tioned, one of the original settlers of Dartmouth, and from whom the
garrison or block-house took its name. It was destroyed by the In-
dians, and the " ruins of Cooke's house " are mentioned as the meeting
place for the English soldiers.

Close to the water's edge, on the south side of Oxford Point, is a bury
ing ground that, with the adjoining land, was given by William Wood
for this purpose. Following is an extract from the original will :

"And whereas, the bodies of some persons that were of good account in their day
were buried on the little hummock or island in tlie meadow at the foot of my liome.<tead
commonly called 'Burial Hill' and I, not being willing that their graves be any
way defaced, do therefore in this, my will, hereby give the said hummock or island to or
for a burying place forever, and for no other use to be made of it, for all persons to
bury their dead that have a mind to ; that my two sons, Zeruiah Wood and John Wood
their and their heirs after them, shall think it suitable to be buried there, to whom I leave
the care thereof."

This will was approved and allowed, July 6, 1778. In this burying
ground John Cooke was buried. He was a prominent figure in every-
thing pertaining to the early settlement of Dartmouth, and was himself
the owner of three thirty- fourths of the township. He died in 1695.'

Another and the third garrison was Palmer's Island, its natural ad-
vantages making it a convenient place of refuge. It was to this island
that Captain Benjamin Church sent Little Eyes and his family, who had
deserted their own tribe (the Sagonites), choosing to make friends with
the English. When they came to this vicinity they were met by
Church, who was preparing for an expedition east of the river. " Mov-
ing to the riverside they found an old canoe, with which the captain
ordered Little Eyes and his company to be carried over to an island,
and lest the English should light on them and kill them, he would
leave his cousin Lightfoot (whom the English knew to be their friend)

' " Francis Cooke had expended a considerable estate in promoting the colony. He died in 1663,
aged about eighty-one years. His son John, " a boy in the Mayiflower,'^ was ten times a deputy
from Plymouth and many years a deacon, but in the Quaker troubles was excommunicated. John
was a pioneer in the Lakeville region, and in 1676 joined in resettling Dartmouth. He then con-
nected himself with Obadiah Holmes's Baptist Church in Newport, and is said to have preached
in Dartmouth. He was living in 1694 when he was the only surviving male passenger by the Ma}--
flower."— Co/x/io/n'j Pilgiim Rt/mbtic.

BLOCK-HOUSES. 27

to be his guard. Little E>es expressed liimself very tliankful to the
captain." '

On the west side of the Sconticut Neck road, only a few hundred fcLt
from the Mattapoisett thoroughfare, was a block-house that was used
by the inhabitants in that section during the troubles with the Indians.
Its e.xact location is shown on a map owned by Hon. Thomas M. Stet-
son, a copy of which hangs in our F"ree Public Library. The reader
may find the exact location of this block- house, and also the dotted
line of the " Forest path " from Russell's garrison to the head of Clarke's
Cove and on through New Bedford, clearly establishing the claim that
Captain Church, with his soldiers and Indian captives, marched over this
route (now County street) on his return to Plymouth. It was near this
block-house that Thomas Pope built a log house soon after he came to
this section in 1653. On Sconticut Neck he had a grist-mill and estab-
lished a good trade with the Indians, bringing his goods from Boston.
Grist-mills were built in the colonies as early as 1653, and the miller
was an important man to the natives. Without doubt Mr. Pope caused
this block-house to be built. He established friendly intercourse with
the Indians, but was in constant fear of violence. Many visitors, and
sometimes large parties, came from the north (Middleborough) for fish-
ing or frolic, or perchance a pow-wov/, and when they had " fire-water "
with them, an element of strife was not unfrequently developed. Among
the early Indian visitors was a small boy who was admired and petted
by Mr. Pope's family, and, in return, this boy on three several occasions
came stealthily to inform them of a contemplated pow wow, and told
them to be on their guard against possible danger. On the third visit
he wished to remain. He was suspected of tale-bearing and dared not
return to his people. He was educated by the family and subsequently
became "Justice Obadiah," and the judicial head to whom was referred
for settlement by the Indians all commercial diflerences. "One of
the descendants of this Judge Obadiah, I recollect, was a neatly dressed
and very aged Indian woman who, about 1806-07-08, came annually
for a day's visit to my father's house [Seth Pope]. She was in the
household of a wealthy family of Friends at New Bedford, by the name
of Tallman." -

'Church's History. -Joshua I^. Pope's manuscript.

28 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Connected with the story of the destruction of Dartmoutli by the
Indians, is an event that in the light of modern civilization seems too
shocking to be true ; )et the pages of history record that at the cessa-
tion of hostilities, a company of Indians had surrendered themselves as
prisoners to Captain Eels, of Russell's garrison. He, with Ralph Earl,
had made them promises which the Indians accepted in good faith, and
they were encamped near the garrison when the Plymouth soldiers,
under the cominand of the famous Indian fighter, Captain Benjamin
Church, arrived. The}' had been ordered to the relief of the beleaguered
inhabitants by the Plymouth authorities. In spite of the united pro-
tests of Captain Church and those in authority at the garrison, who felt
bound in honor to keep their promises to their Indian prisoners, the
Indians were carried to Plymouth, and after a so-called trial were con-
demned and sold into slavery. What a strange procession was that
which on that eventful day marched from Russell's garrison through
whit is now our city of New Bedford, on its way to Acushnet, and
thence on to Plymouth. For the forest path from the garrison led to
the head of Clark's Cove, and thence by the line of County street.
One hundred and sixty Indian captives, guarded by Plymouth soldiers,
who were the representatives of those who had fled from British op-
pression to our New England shores, marched through this road into
slavery. A century later, another martial host of 4,000 British soldiers,
armed with all the terrible enginery of war, advanced triumphant
through the helpless township and over the same thoroughfare.

At Plymouth Captain Church gave up his captives to the authorities.
They, with others, and among them King Philip's wife and little son,
178 in all, were sold as slaves and transported to Spain. Says Drake:
" Do we wonder that King Philip was ready to die; that his heart was
ready to break when his wife, Wootonakanuska, and their little son fell
into the hands of the authorities at Plymouth ? They still lived and this
most harrowed his soul. Lived for what? — to serve as slaves in an un-
known land. Could it be otherwise than that madness should seize
upon him and torment him in every place?" In Edward Everett's ad-
dress at Bloody Brook, 1835, he says: " And what was the fate of Phil-
ip's wife and son? This is a tale for husbands and wives, for parents
and children. Young men and women, you cannot understand it.

TREACHERY TO THE INDIANS. 29

What was the fate of PhiUp's wife and child ? She is a woman, he is a
lad. They did not surely hang him. No, that would have been mercy.
The boy is the grandson of good old Massasoit, the first and best friend
the English ever had in New England. Perhaps, now Philip is slain
and his warriors scattered to the four winds, they will allow his wife and
son to go back, the widow and orphan, to finish their days and sorrows
in their native wilderness. They are sold into slavery. West India
slavery! An Indian princess and her child. Sold from the cool
breezes of Mount Hope, from the wild freedom of a New England for-
est, to gasp under the lash, beneath the blazing sun of the tropics.
Bitter as death ; aye, bitter as hell. Is there anything animated that
would not struggle against this?"

According to Belknap, some of those Indians who were thus seized
and sold, afterward made their way home, and found opportunity to
satisfy their revenge during the war with the French and Indians,
known as King William's war.

" After tiii.=, Dartmouth distress required succor, a great part of the town being laid
desolate and many of the inhabitants killed. The most of Plymouth's forces were or-
dered thither, and coming to Russell's garrison they met with a number of the enemy
that had surrendered tlieraselves prisoners on terms promised by Captain Eels of the
garrison, and Ralph Earl, who persuaded them (by a friendly Indian he had employed)
to come ui. And had their promise to the Indians been kept and the Indians fairly
treated, it is probable that most, if not all, the Indians in these parts had followed the
example of those who had now surrendered themselves, which would have been a
good step towards finishing the war. B.it, in spite of all that Captain Eels, Church, or
Earl could say, argue, plead, or beg, somebody else that had more power in their hands
improved it, and without regard to the promise made the Indians on their surrender-
ing themselves, they were carried away to Plymouth, there sold and transported out of
the country, being about eight score persons. An action so hateful to Mr. Church that
he opposed it to the lo.ssof the good will and respect of those that were before his good
friends."— Z)rai-e.

In another foot-note Drake says:

■ I can find no mention of these two gentlemen (Messrs. Eels and Earl) in any of
the histories. But their names are sufficiently immortalized by their conduct in oppos-
ing the diabolical acts of the government for selling prisoners as slaves. It is possible
that they might decline serving any more in the war after being so much abused, and
lience were not noticed by the historians, who also passed over this black page of our
history as lightly as possible."

In a field directly east of the residence of Joseph H. Burgess, in Ox-

30 HISTORY OF XEW BEDFORD.

ford village, are the ruins of an ancient building, the Annis house, that
was built by Thomas Taber, son-inlaw of John Cooke, and dating
back to the period when Dartmouth was restored from its destruction
b\' the Indians.

Dartmouth was not called upon for soldiers by the Plymouth authori-
ties daring King Philip's war, because of the maintenance of the garri-
sons by the settlers, and for several years after peace had been declared
the town was exempted from taxation because of the great sufferings
and loss of property by the inhabitants. The court of Plymouth
passed an order October 14, 1678, commanding the people to build
compactly, especially in each village, for mutual protection and defense
from the attacks of the enemy.

King Philip's war was most disastrous to New England, and the en-
ergies of the colonists were crippled for many years. In Massachusetts
and New Plymouth, thirteen towns were destroyed, 600 houses burned,
and 600 persons killed. It is estimated that $750,000 worth of property
was destroyed. It is not, perhaps, to be wondered at that knowledge of
such horribly savage barbarities as those noted herein, and others that
followed through many long years in the various parts of the New
World, barbarities which have not wholly ceased even at the present
day, should have led later generations of white people not only to regard
their authors as merciless savages without one redeeming trait, but also
to believe that the bloody deeds of the red men were committed with-
out any material provocation. What has been briefly chronicled, it is
believed, will indicate that such is not the case. While it is undeniable
that the march of civilization cannot be stayed, and that the weaker
must give place to the stronger in the world's progress, it is also true
that the natives of the Western world never failed to meet the first
white comers to any particular locality, with open arms and peace in
their hearts. That the contest with all its horrors was inevitable, is un-
doubted ; but in it each side took its share of responsibilty, and the
untutored savages, their brains inflamed by the rum of the white man,
turned upon the latter the very guns for which they were deluded into
giving up their birthrights. In short, it was a struggle for supremacy,
and each side used whatever advantage it possessed to achieve victory,
and met their foes according to their nature and circumstances.

QUAKER SETTLERS.

CHAPTER II.

THE QUAKERS.

Characteristics of the Quakers — Their Reception in Massachusetts Bay — Transfer
of their Peculiarities from England to the Colonies — Reasotis for Strife between Qua-
kers and Colonists — Difference of Attitude in Massachusetts Bay and in Plymouth
Towards the Quakers — Catalogue of Persecutions of Quakers— Appeal to the Crown
— The Trial and its Decision in Favor of the Quakers — Loyalty of the Quakers.

\A ANY of the early settlers of Dartmouth were Quakers, and they
/ \ and their descendants exercised a powerful influence over the
affairs of the township. They were the founders of Bedford village and
established it on a basis of prosperity, the influence of which continues
to the present day. They were lovers of the domestic fireside, the
peaceful arts, and their homes were the abodes of comfort and peace.
Of frugal and industrious habits, the Quakers were prosperous in their
business enterprises, and contributed largely to the substantial char-
acter of the villages belonging to the old township of Dartmouth. The
local history of this people is contemporary with that of the township,
and the early records reveal much that is interesting of their relations
to the Massachusetts Bay and Plymouth colonies. It is not within the
province of this book to discuss the theological events of the colonial
days, but to glean from historical records and to present important
facts, showing how it happened that the earl)- settlers of Dartmouth
were largely Non- Conformists, and helping us to understand the subse-
quent relations of that element with, and its influence upon, the com-
munity.

The advent of the first Quakers, Mary Fisher and Ann Austin, from
England to Massachustts Bay colony in 1656, was signalized by their
prompt arrest and incarceration in the public jail in Boston. Their
trunks were searched by order of Deputy-Governor Bellinghan, a num-
ber of books were taken therefrom and burned in the market-place by
the hangman of the colony. The women were closely imprisoned, and
no communication was allowed with them. History records other facts

HISTORY OF XEW BEDFORD.

regarding their treatment to which it is neither necessary nor proper to
allude in these pages. Such energetic measures administered upon
prisoners who, at least, were entitled to such protection by the author-
ities as the law grants to strangers, suggest a condition of public senti-
ment closely allied to that existing in England at this period. Says
Macaulay : " The history of England during the seventeenth century is
the history of the transformation of a limited monarchy, constituted
after a fashion of the middle ages, into a limited monarchy suited to
that more advanced state of society in which the public charges can no
longer be borne by the estates of the crown, and in which the public
defense can no longer be entrusted to a feudal militia."

Such mighty changes in the history of a great people must necessa-
rily be made through scenes of tyranny and oppression, of persecution
and violence, of the rise and fall of party and sect in the progress of
civilization ; and so the years of the seventeenth century are filled with
events that, for political and religious fanaticism, are almost without
parallel. Its early years witnessed the contest between the Crown and
the Puritans, with accompanying imprisorinients, tortures, and banish-
ments, which led many of this heroic people to leave their homes and
native lands to find freedom for their religious belief elsewhere. It
witnessed the downfall of the English Crown and the Established Church,
and, at the death of Charles the First, the establishment of the Protect-
orate under Cromwell ; and again it saw the restoration of the Crown.
No sooner was Charles the Second secure on the English throne than
there occurred a change in public opinion. In all parts of the kingdom
there arose an outcry against the Puritans, whose reign under Crom-
well had been marked for its severity and oppression. It was in the
atmosphere of the persecutions now meted out in turn to the Puritans
that record is made of the existence of the Quakers and their foremost
representative, George Fox. Says Macaulay: "The peculiarities of the
Puritan, his look, his dress, his dialect, his strange scruples, had been, ever
since the time of Elizabeth, favorite subjects with mockers. But these
peculiarities appeared far more grotesque in a faction which ruled a great
empire, than in obscure and persecuted congregations; the cant which
had moved laughter when it was heard on the stage from Tribulation
Wholesome and Zeal- of- the Land Busy, was still more laughable when

THE QUAKERS. 33

it proceeded from the lips of generals and councilors of state. It
was also to be noticed that during the civil troubles several sects had
sprung into existence whose eccentricities surpassed anything that had
before been seen in England. A mad tailor named Lodowick Muggle-
ton, wandered from pot-house to pot-house, tippling ale and denounc-
ing eternal torments against those who had refused to believe on his
testimony, that the Supreme Being was only si.x feet high, and that the
sun was just four miles from the earth.

" George Fox had raised a tempest of derision by proclaiming that it
was a violation of Christian sincerity to designate a single person by a
plural pronoun, and that it was an idolatrous homage to Janus and
Woden to talk about January and Wednesday. His doctrine, a few
years later, was embraced by some eminent men and rose greatly in the
public estimation. But at the time of the Restoration, the Quakers
were popularly regarded as the most despicable of fanatics By the
Puritans they were treated with severity here and were persecuted to
the death in New England. Nevertheless, the public, which seldom
makes fine distinctions, often confounded the Puritans with the Qua-
kers. Both were schismatics. Both hated Episcopacy and the Lit-
urgy. Both had what seemed extravagant whimsies about dress, diver-
sions and postures. Widely as the two differed in opinion they were
popularly classed together as canting schismatics ; and whatever was
ridiculous or odious in either, increased the scorn and aversion which
the multitude felt for both."

It was but natural that the same spirit existing in England at that
period should prevail in her colonies, and that the political and relig-
ious feuds at home should exercise an influence abroad. Churchmen,
Puritans and Quakers, each at variance with the others, were in their
turn subjected to the natural experience of persecution, imprisonment
and banishment. The advent of the Quakers in the Massachusetts Bay
and Plymouth colonies supplied the opportunity for a new persecution,
and they, with the Baptists and Episcopalians, were subjected to similar
treatment by the governing powers. It is probable that neither party
was free from blame for their acts, but the criticisms of the present gen-
eration should be tempered with charity ; and they will be, if due con-
sideration is made for the crude condition of civilization at that period.

34 HISTORY OF XEW BEDFORD.

The laws adopted and enforced relating to these Non-Conformists
made it impossible for them to live at peace in the colonial settlements,
and their frequent banishment from these centers led them to plant
their homes in the unsettled parts of New England. Thus it happened
that the township of Dartmouth received many of these people within
its sparsely settled borders. In the progress of time they became a
strong element in the community, outweighing in influence and out-
voting that portion of the inhabitants who were in sympathy with the
government at Plymouth. A natural and legitimate result of this con-
dition of affairs was a constant difficulty with regard to the support of
the religious service insisted upon by the Court. Both Quakers and
Baptists resisted the taxes urged by the Plymouth Court for the build-
ing of meeting-houses and for the maintenance of a ministry whose
creed did not appeal to their sense of truth.

The attitude of the Pilgrims at Plymouth toward these people was in
marked contrast to that of the Puritans of Massachusetts Bay. By the
latter the Non- Conformists were treated with great severity ; and the
records reveal a number of cases where Quakers were hung, publicly
whipped, and imprisoned, while some were tied to the tail of a cart and
driven from town to town. Baptists were banished, and Episcopalians
were forced into exile ; while at Plymouth a milder and more generous
spirit prevailed toward these people, and their treatment was corres-
pondingly considerate. It is quite evident, however, that the Quakers
were not a wholly popular element in the domain of Plymouth Colony,
as will be seen by the following extracts taken from Plymouth records.
A number of the cases mentioned occurred within the borders of Plym-
outh Colony :

'■ 16.56. At this court Nicholas Upsiall, Richard Kerbey, and the wife of John Kew-
l.ind and others did frequently meet together at the house of WilHam Allen, in Sand-
wich, on Lord's Day and other times they used to invey against ministers and magis-
trates to dishonor of God and contempt of government, the Court have therefore
directed summons to the constables of Sandwich to require them to appear at next
General Court to answer for said misdemeanor, and the said Nicholas being only
licensed by court to stay in Sandwich till the extreme of winter is past, is now warned
to depart the Government the 1st of March next, and Trustum Hull who brought him
into the Government is, according to order, required to carry him away b}' time before
mentioned." — Book 3, Court orders, page 105.

" Sarah Kerbey, for her disturbance of the public worship of God after admonition

,/^.

6^t^€^

.^^^

PERSECUTION OF THE QUAKERS. 35

and sentence formerly given against her, which was to be publicly wliipt, is novr or-
dered to be performed, and so accordingly was executed." — Booh 3, Court orders, page
109.

" John Copeland, of the sect commonly called Quakers, being summoned appeared
and found guilty of speaking falsely concerning John Alden, as that his head and knees
trembled at such time as that the said Copeland and Christopher Holden were before
the said Alden, sentenced by Court to be whipt if he shall be found in this government
being required to depart in 48 hours." — Book 3, Coiirl orders, page 120.

■' 1657. Arthur Howland for permitting a Quaker meetmg in his house and for in-
viting such as were under government, children and others to come to said meeting,
was sentenced by Court to find sureties for his good behaviour, in case he should refuse
he is fined five pounds." He refused to give bonds and was fined.

" The said Arthur Howland for resisting the constable of MarshBeld in the execution
of his olBce and abusing him in words by threatening speeches is fined five pounds."

" Arthur Howland for presenting a writing in Court which said writing on the read-
ing thereof appeared to be of dangerous consequences, he owning it to be his own and
for making known the said writing to others was sentenced by Court to find sureties
for his good beliavior." — Book 3, Court orders, page 123.

" At this Court Humphrey Norton and John Rouse, two of those called Quakers ap-
peared and presented themselves in town of Plymouth 1st June, 1658, contrary to law
prohibiting any such to come into the colony, they were apprehended and committed
to ward until Thursday 3d June, 1658, at which time they were presented before Court
and examined and behaved themselves (in special Humphrey Norton) turbulently unto
gov'r sundry times saying thou liest and said unto him Thomas thou art a malicious
man. in like manner John Rouse behaved liiraself in his words unto Court unworthy
and were returned unto place from whence they came until Saturday 5th June at
which time the said Norton and Rouse were again sent for into Court where as Chris-
topher Winslow had deposed to a paper containing sundry notorious errors expressed
by said Norton a copy of said paper was delivered to him in Court which he did not
deny and the said Norton again carrying himself very turbulently saying to the Govr
(thy clamorous tongue I regard no more than the dust under my feet) and thou art
like a scolding woman and thou pradest and devidest me and the like effect with other
words of like nature and tendered a desire to read it in Court to which Govr replied if
the paper was directed to him he would see it before it was read said Norton refused
to let him see it, the said Norton and Rouse were required to take an oath fidelity they
said they would take no oath at all, and they were sentenced to be whipt which the
same day was performed and the under marshall requiring his fees they refused to pay
them and they were again returned to prison until they would pay where they remained
until 10 June, 1658, until they settled with marshall." — Book 3, Court orders, page 113.

" The Court have ordered that the treasurer shall require the fines for the breach of
the law prohibiting the frequenting of Quaker meetings and that a fine forty shillings
be required of William Allen of Sandwich for permitting a Quaker meeting in his
house." — Books, Court orders, p&ge 13-4. 1 'I 'iGiS^

'• Whereas it is observed that frequently divers of those called Quakers repaii- to

36 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Sandwieli from other places by sea coming at Monument with a iioat which practices
if continued the Court conceiveth may prove of dangerous consequences. The Court
doth empower and autliorize you George Barlow Marshall of Sandwich that in case you
shall have intelligence of the arrival of any of those called Quakers at Monument or
any place adjacent upon the coast within your jurisdiction that you forthwith repair to
such boats with aid to go with and arrest any such boat or boats, taking their sails
from their masts and securing them until some magistrate be acquainted therewith and
further order given you about the same and likewise that you apprehend the ladies of
all such Quakers as come in boats or all Quakers that you find." — Book 3, Court orders,
page 144.

'• The Court findeth people of Sandwich called Quakers had by them many papers and
writings that are both false and pernicious to the government. These are therefore in
the name of the Slate of England to require George Barlow Marshall of Sandwich to
take with him a man or two to search the houses of Quakers, chests and trunks for
papers." — Book 3, Court orders, page 163.

" 1659. In reference to Captain James Cudworth, the Court taking notice of his
great disaffection in mcouragement of those called Quakers expressed partly in a letter
owned by himself in the manner of sending it and in many other carriages of his
known to us and also in a letter strongly conjectured and suspected to be by him sent
into England the which himself hath not denied, the Court see cause to bind him over
to make a further answer and that he be put in good security to the value of five hun-
dred pounds for the end above said." — Book 3, Court orders, page 134.

" 1660. Daniel Butler for resaving a strange Quaker when apprehended by Marshall
Barlow and for his breaking away when taken prisoner is sentenced to be publicly
whipt." — Book 3, Court orders, page 134.

"Joseph Allen for being at a Quaker meeting fined 10 shillings and for making dis-
turbance in meeting on Lords day atScituate fined 40 shillings." — BookZ, Court orders,
page 194.

" William Parker for entertaining a strange Quaker called Wenlocke into his house
fined five pounds." — Book 3, Court orders, page 194.

"At this Court Wenloek Christopher a Quaker appeared before Court and after
examuiation and much speech they requested him to depart the Government immedi-
ately which he would not do and so was sent back to prison. Soon after Court he en-
gaged to go and was released." Book 3. Court orders, page 203.

"The following per.sons were each fined 10 shillings for attending Quaker meetings:
Robert Harper and wife, Joseph Allen, Benjamin Allen, John Newland and wife, Rich-
ard Kerbey, sen'r., Richard Kerbey.jr., William Allen, William Gifford, Matthew Allen,
wife of Henry Dillingham, William Newland and wife, Jane Swift, John Smith & De-
borah his wife, John Soule, Rodolphos Elmes, Peter Gaunt, D. Butler. Obadiah Butler,
John Jenkins, Lydia Hicks." Book 3, Court orders, page '206.

The following is taken verbatim from the Dartmouth Friends'
Records, Book i, page 46.

" And our Friend Deliverance Smith being one of the selectmen or assessors of the
town was seized by Samuel Gallop, sheriff of Bristol, by an order of the General Court

QUAKER APPEAL TO THE CROWN. 37

at Boston, and committed to the County jail at Bristol, because he could not for con-
science sake, assess the sum of sixty pounds annexed to the Queen's tax, which was
supposed as before mentioned, and now it is evident to be for the maintenance of a
hireling minister — and Friends having unity with him in his sufferings, do appoint Benju.
Howland and Judah Smith to procure a hand to manage the said Deliverance Smith's
business, whilst he is a prisoner, on account of trouble and Friends, and engage him his
wages, and the Monthly Meeting to re-emburse the same. 10 mo. 20, 1708."

1 In 1724 John Tucker and Peleg Slocum, members of the Dartmouth
Monthly Meeting of Friends, refused to pay a tax for building a Pres-
byterian Church at Chilmark. Their property on Elizabeth Islands
\vas seized, and a liorse and heifer belonging to the former, and eighty
sheep belonging to the latter, were sold to pay the rates.

To the Quakers of Dartmouth and Tiverton, aided by the Baptists,
must be given the honor of the first successful appeal for justice to the
English government. In October, 1723, John Akin and Philip Tabor,
of Dartmouth, Joseph Anthony and John Sisson, of Tiverton, were as-
sessors of their respective towns ; and being Quakers and Baptists, they
refused to collect the taxes imposed by the General Court of Massachu-
setts for the maintenance of ministers. At this time the Plymouth Col-
ony and that of Massachusetts Bay had been consolidated under the
new charter (1692) of the Province of Massachusetts. Therefore this
order was from the General Court at Boston. For this they were all
imprisoned in the common jail at New Bristol. The case was success-
fully argued before the King's Privy Council, and it was decreed that
not only must the officials be released but also that the taxes must be re-
mitted. This event was an important one in the history of the society
of Friends or Quakers, for it marked the termination of the persecutions
that had followed this people from the very beginning. A detailed account
of this trial possesses great local value and is therefore entitled to a place
in these pages. It is a forcible presentation of a part of the history of
the conflict, from the standpoint of the Quakers, and sheds some light
upon the experiences of the sect who were inhabitants of this township.
The following is the petition to the King :

" A petition to the King in the cause of some Friends under snQ'erings in New England.

" To George, King of Great Britain, &c.

'■The humble petition of Thomas Richardson and Richard Partridge, on behalf of Jo-
seph Anthony, John Sisson, John Akin, and Philip Tabor, prisoners in the i

1 Dartmouth Monthly MeetingiRecords.

38 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

at New Bristol in the King's province of Massachusetts Bay in Xew England, as also of
their friends (called Quakers) in general, who are frequently under great sufterings for
conscience sake, in that government — sheweth,

" That William and Mary, late King and Queen of England, by their royal charter
bearing date the 7th day of October in the third year of their reign, did for the
greater ease and encoaragement of their loving subjects inhabiting said province, and of
such as should come to inhabit there, grant, establish and ordain that forever thereafter
there should be a liberty of conscience allowed in the worship of God, to all Christians
(except Papists) inhabiting, or which should inhabit or be resident within the said
province, with power also to make laws for the government of the said province, and
support of the same, and to impose taxes for the King's service in the defence and sup-
port of the said government, and protection and preservation of the inhabitants and to
dispose of matters and things whereby the King's subjects there might be religiously,
peaceably and civilly governed, protected and defended.

" And for the better securing and n-.aintaining the liberty of conscience thereby
granted, commanded that all such laws made and published "oy virtue of said charter,
should be made and published under the seal of said province, and should be carefully
and duly observed, kept, performed and put in execution, according to the true intent
and meaning of the said charter.

" That those sects of Protestants called Presbyterians and Independents, being more
numerous in the said country than others (to whom the said charter gives equal rights),
they became makers of the laws, by their superior numbers and votes, and ministers of
the privileges of the said charter, so as in great measure to elude the same, and disap-
point all others of the king's Protestant subjects of the good and just ends of their
transpbrting themselves and families at so great hazard and charge ; one great encour-
agement and inducement thereto being liberty of conscience, and ea.se from priestly
impositions and burthens.

■' That in the year 1692 they made a law in the said province, entitled ' An Act for
the Settlement of and Support of Ministers and Schoolmasters,' wherein it is ordained
that the inhabitants of each town within the said province shall take due care from time
to time to be constantly provided of an able, learned and orthodox minister or ministers
of good conversation, to dispense the word of God to them, which minister or ministers
shall be suitably encouraged and sufficiently supported and maintained by the inhabit-
ants of such towns.

"That the said law was farther enforced by another made in the year 1695, reciting
the like aforesaid, as also by another made in the year 1715, entitled ' An Act for Main-
taining and Propagating Religion,' in which said last act the prevention of the growth
of atheism, irreligion and profaneness is suggested as one great reason of its being en-
acted ; and the power of determining who shall be ministers under the aforesaid qualifi-
cations is by the said law assumed by the General Court of Assembly, with the
recommendation of any three of tlie ministers of the same sect, already in orders, and
settled and supported by virtue of said laws ; though it was not determined (as the said
petitioners humbly presume) either by the said charter, or by an act of Parliament in
Great Britain, or by any express law of the said province, who are orthodox or who are
not, or who sli.ili jud jc uf such ipialificatioiis in such ministers.

QUAKER PETITION. 39

" And in all which said several laws, no caie is had or taken of religion (even in their
own sense) than only to appoint ministers of their own way, and impose their main-
tenance upon the King's subjects, conscientiously dissenting from them, by force of
which said laws, or some of them, several of the townships within the said province
have had Presbyterian and Independent preachers obtruded and imposed upon them
for maintenance without their consent, and which they have not deemed able, learned
and orthodox , and which as such they could not hear or receive.

" That by other laws made in the year 1722 and 1723, it is ordained that the town of
Dartmouth and the town of Tiverton in the said province shall be assessed for the said
years the respective sums of £100 and £72 lis. over and besides the common taxes
for support of the government, which sums are for maintenance of such ministers.

''That the said Joseph Anthony and John Sisson were appointed Assessors of the
taxes for the said town of Tiverton, and the said John Akin and said Philip Tabor for
the town of Dartmouth ; but some of the said Assessors being of the people called
Quakers, and others of them also dissenting from the Presbyterians and Independents,
and greatest part of the inhabitants of the said towns being also Quakers or Anabaptists
or of different sentiment in religion from Independents and Presbyterians, the said
Assessors duly assessed the other taxes upon the people there, relating to the support of
government to the best of their knowledge, yet they could not in conscience assess any
of the inhabitants of the said towns anything for or towards the maintenance of any
ministers.

"Thac the said Joseph Anthony, John Sisson, John Akin and PhiHp Tabor (on pre
tence of their non-compliance with the said law) were on the 25th of the month called
May, 1723, committed to the jail aforesaid, where they still continue prisoners under great
sufferings and hardships both to themselves and families, and where they must remain
and die, if not relieved by the King's royal clemency and favor.

" That the said people called Quakers in the said province are, and generally have been
great sufferers by the said law, in their cattle, horses, sheep, corn, and household goods,
which from time to time have been taken from them by violence of the said laws for
maintenance of the said ministers, who call themselves able, learned and orthodox ;
which said laws, and the execution and consequences thereof, are not only(as the petition-
ers humbly conceive) contiary to the liberty of conscience and security of religion, civil
liberty, property ; and the rights and privileges granted in the said charter to all the
King's protestant subjects there, eluded and made null and precarious; but opposite to
the King's royal and gracious declaration, as thy happy accession to the throne, promis-
ing protection and liberty of conscience to all thy di.-^senting subjects, without excep-
tion to those of the said plantations.

"That after repeated applications made to the government there, for redress in the
premises, and no relief hitherto obtained (the Assembly always opposing whatever the
Governor and Council were at any time disposed to do on that behalf), the King's loyal
suffering and distressed subjects do now throw themselves prostrate at the steps of the
throne, humbly imploring thy royal commiseration, that it may please the King to de-
nounce his negative upon the said laws, or such part or parts of them, or any of them as
directly or consequentially affect the lives, liberties, properties, religion or consciences of

40 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

the Protestant subjects in said province, and their famihes and the i)rivileges granted
and intended in the said charter, or such other relief as thy royal wisdom and goodness
may please to provide; and in the meantime that directions may be given that the said
Joseph Anthony, John Sisson, John Aliin, and Philip Tabor be immediately released
from their imprisonment, on their giving such security in such sums as shall be thought
proper for their being at any time or times hereafter forthcoming when required until
their case be brought to an issue.
■'And the petitioner shall pray."

The report of the action of the privy council is as follows :

"At a Court at St. James, the 2d day of June, 1724.

" Present. — The King's most excellent majesty. His royal highness the Prince of
Wales. Archbishop of Canterbury. Lord Chancellor. Lord President. Lord privy
seal. Lord Carteret. Mr. Vice Chamberlain. William Pultney, Esq., Lord Chamberlain.
Duke' of Roxburgh. Duke of Newcastle. Earl of Westmoreland. Lord Viscount Town-
send. Lord Viscount Torrington. Mr. Speaker of the House of Commons.

" Upon reading this day at the Board a report from the Right Honorable the Lords of
the Committee of Council, upon the petition of Thomas Richardson and Richard Par-
tridge, on behalf of Joseph Anthony, John Si.s.son, John Akin and Philip Tabor, prison-
ers in the common jail at New Bristol, in his Majesty's province of Massachusetts Bay
in New England, -for not assessing the inhabitants of the towns of Dartmouth and Tiv-
erton the additional taxes of £100 and £72, lis. imposed upon them by an act passed
there in the year 1722, by which they appear to be for the maintenance of Presbyter-
ian ministers, who are not of their persuasion, and also in hehalf of their friends called
Quakers in general, who are frequently under sufferings for conscience sake in that gov-
ernment. By which report it appears, their lordships are of opinion that il may be ad-
visable for His Majesty to remit the said additional taxes, so imposed on the said two
towns, and to discharge the said persons from jail.

•' His Majesty in council taking the said report into consideration, is graciously pleased
'o approve thereof, and hereby to remit the said additional taxes of £100 and £72 lis.
which were by ihe said act to have been assessed on the said towns of Dartmouth and
Tiverton. And His Majesty is hereby pleased to order that the said Joseph Anthony,
John Sission, John Akin and Philip Tabor be immediately released from their imprison-
ment, on account thereof which the Governor, Lieutenant-Governor, or Commander-in-
Chief for the time being of His Majesty's said province of Massachusetts Bay, and all
others whom it may concern are to take notice of and yield obedience thereunto.

" Vera Copia. Te.vple Stanvan." i

During the period of the American Revolution and other occasions
of war, the Quakers were uncompromising in their attitude of non-re-
sistance, ever entering their protest against the bearing of arms and the
prosecution of war. It was due to their influence that the township

1 Gojtgk's History of the Quakers^ Vol. iv., pp 219-226.

^^^

PERSECUTION OF THE QUAKERS.

was frequently under the rebuke of the Court for negligence in military
affairs. In a communication written by the chief military officer of the
colony (in 1690) he says of Dartmouth : " They have not a man in the
town that seems in the least to be concerned whether we have any mil-
itary officers or no."

1 In 1709 John Tucker, sr., William Wood, William Soule, John
Lapham, jr., Deliverance Smith and Nathaniel Howland, members of
Dartmouth Monthly Meeting, were impressed for military service in
Canada. They refused to serve and were taken before Governor Dud-
ley at Roxbury, who gave them a hearing and discharge. In 171 1
Nicholas Lapham and John Tucker, jr., members of the same society
for refusing to render military service, were imprisoned four weeks and
two days in the Castle at Boston.

The following, copied from an original pay roll in possession of the
State, indicates the condition in 1757:

" A general return of the arms and ammunition belonging to the several companies in
tlie 2d Regiment of MiUtia in the County of Bristol, commanded by Col. Ezra
Riclimond, 17.57; Capt. Tobey's, Willie's, Crane's, Smith's, four Dartmouth companies, —
Deficient.''

'■ P. S. — The four companies in the town of Dartrnoutli are deficient, and the biggest
part of them are Quaqers."

Their loyalty to religious principles caused the Quakers great distress
and loss of property in the war of the Revolution. Their singular po-
sition was in many instances unjustly construed into dislo)'alty to the
American cause, and much suffering was endured by them because of
the seizure of their goods to pay military taxes. The following docu-
ment illustrates what frequently occurred during those trying times.
It will be noticed that the objection raised was not to the tax itself, but
only to the purpose for which the money was to be used :

"Boston, September 18th, 1781.
■'Then received of Henry Gardner, Esq., Treasurer of this Common Wealth, three
warrants for collecting the Quakers Tax in Dartmouth for the purpose of hiring soldiers
to Complete the Common Wealth preportion of the Continental Army.

.£ s D

To John Chaffee, 747 17 4

" Christopher Almy, 1460 16 6

'■ John Earle, 802 IG 1"

' Dartmouth Monthly Meeting Records. 6

42 HISTORY OF XEW BEDFORD.

The following petition to the General Court is interesting as bearing
upon this subject :

^ ,., ) To the Honorable Senate

Commonwealth

, , ) To the Honorable henat
nmonwealth J ^„j jj^^,^^ ^^ Representative
ot Jia?s. ^ ^^^, jjj^jj^g i„ Boston.

■' The Petition of us, the subscribers, Selectmen for the town of Dartmouth, humbly :

'■That Ijy a clause in the late Militia Act the People called Quakers are exempt from
Personal Military Service, but subject to pay their proportion of the Expenses of rais-
ing the men, with an addition of Ten Per Centum, to be assessed on them k collected
as other Taxes and paid into the Treasury Office, and the money^so raised is solely to
be appropriated to the purpose of raising men. By reason of which appropriation that
denomination of People utterly refuse paying such assessments from mere principal of
Conscience, & their Estate is distrained from them, which greatly distresses them &
is a public detriment to sd town. Humbly pray this Honorable Court to take this
grievance under consideration, and alter that Clause in the Militia act, as far as it re-
spects the appropriation, & order the money so raised to be appropriated to the use of
Government, or any other way they in their wisdom shall think proper, and we as in
duty bound will ever pray.

William Davis, j
Pardon Cook, ;• Selectmen."
Dart. mo. Feb. 21. 1782. Benj. Russell \

It is well established that notwithstanding the attitude of the Quakers
in military affairs, they were as a people loyal in their sympathies to the
cause of freedom ; and there are several instances on record where they
rendered military service. Whatever may be said of this people in re-
gard to their relations to the bearing of arms, it must be admitted that
they exercised a healthy and benign influence in times of peace, and
that their societies, scattered throughout the land, were well-springs of
pure and enlightened thought. They fostered and encouraged educa-
tion and lent their potent influence in modifying many of the cruel pun-
ishments meted out to the criminal classes. Their societies were un-
swerving friends of the slave. The records of the Dartmouth Monthly
Meeting mention a number of cases where some of its members were
rebuked and others disowned for abusing Indians and for beating their
slaves. This Society gave testimony against slavery in the following
action at a quarterly meeting in 17 16:

■'The matter relating to the purchasing of slaves being agitated in the meeting, it is
concluded by ye most of ye meeting that it would be most agreeable to our holy pro-
fession to forbear for time to come, to be in any way concerned in purchasing any
slaves."

QUAKER CHARACTERISTICS. 43

In after years New Bedford established a noble record as a city of
refuge for the runaway slave. Many of these unfortunates found safe
retreats in the homes of the Quakers, and by their safe guidance were
sent by the underground railroad into freedom.

In the very brief space that can here be allotted to this subject, it is
impossible to enter further into the deeply interesting details of the
long contest between the early religious sects in the colonies ; but they
may be found by the interested reader in other volumes. It is per-
haps proper to add that while the Quakers were in very many instances
persecuted, maltreated and despoiled, there must stand against them a
course of action which was intensely provoking to their opponents in
the then existing state of religious affairs. Their public demeanor was
ofter characterized by ridicule of religious observances, obstruction of
the enforcement of ordinances, disturbing of public meetings, and cus-
toms that were then, in the eyes of their opponents, almost an evidence
of religious and social revolution. While this conduct cannot justify
the acts committed upon the Quakers, it must in the light of a broader,
freer and more humane civilization than existed at that period, soften
criticism and stimulate charity toward the perpetrators of such out-
rages as we have chronicled.

CHAPTER III.

AFTER THE KING PHILIP WAR.

Freemen of 1670— Increase of Population— Early Officials— Town Proceedings-
Early Roadways— Those who took the Freeman's Oath in 1686— The First Meeting
House— Organization of the Monthly Meeting— Early Methods of Punishing Malefac-
tors — Bounties for Killing Wild Animals— Early Educational Measures — Building of
a Town House — Agitation of Town Division — Records of Soldiers.

AT the June term of the Plymouth Colony Court in the year 1664,
it was ordered that, " All the land commonly called and known
by the name of Acushena, Ponagansett and Coaksett, is allowed by the
courts to be a township, and the inhabitants thereof have liberty to

44 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

make such orders as may conduce to tlieir common good in town con-
cernments, and that the said town be lienceforth called and known bj-
the name of Dartmouth."

In 1667 Sergeant James Shaw and Arthur Hathaway were appointed
to exercise the men of Dartmouth in the use of arms, and the people
were prepared to intelligently defend their homes from their enemies.

In the same year John Cooke, the boy passenger in the Mayflower,
was authorized by the Plymouth Court to make contracts of marriages,
to administer oaths, issue warrants, and perform other legal duties.

In 1670 there were seven freemen in the township, as follows: John
Cooke, John Russell, James Shaw, Arthur Hathaway, William Spooncr,
Samuel Hicks, William Palmer. The latter name is preserved in Palm-
er's Island.

In 1 67 1 Arthur Hathaway was appointed to administer oaths to wit-
nesses that might appear before the grand inquest. It is evident that
the township was growing more populous yearly; for in 1673 the mi-
litia company was more completely organized by the appointment of
John Smith as lieutenant, and Jacob Mitchell, ensign bearer. Mr.
Mitchell lived in Fairhaven village, and a trustworthy account tells the
story of his tragic death. 1

It is evident that notwithstanding the township dates its corporate
e.xistence from 1664, it began its practical organization in 1674, when
the first town meeting finds record as follows :

■ At a town meeting the 22d of May, in the year 1674, John Cooke was chosen deji-
uty; Arthur Hathaway, grand juryman ; William Earl, constable ; John Russell, James
Shaw and Wilham Palmer and Daniel Willcoks, Peleg Sherman and Samuel Cudbard,
surveyors. James Shaw, clerk."

At a town meeting held on the 22d of Jul}-, of the same )ear, it was
ordered that " All the town meetings do begin at ten of the clock and to
continue until the moderator duly relie\'ed the town, not exceeding four
of the clock."

' Mr. MitcheU and his wife were on the back of their horse and on their way to the block-house or
garrison at Oxford village. Their road led them around the east and north side of ithe tide mill
pond and they had proceeded only a few rods from their house when they were both shot dead.
The bodies were subsequently found and buried where they fell, at the root of a pear tree. The
spot was the land on which now stands the Unitarian Church. The tradition affirms that this was
a hill, and that on the highest elevation stood Mr. Mitchell's house, burned by the Indians in 1673-
— Pope's Manuscript.

A--

OLDEST EXISTING PAGES OF THE DARTMOUTH RECORDS.

From Photographs by Bierstadt Brothers.

PLATE I.

OLDEST EXISTING PAGES OF THE DARTMOUTH RECORDS.

From Fhotogrnfhs by Bietstadt Brolhns.

PLATE 2.

FIRST TOlViV MEETINGS. 45

"That all such persons as do neglect to appear at the town meeting,
shall forfeit to the town i shilling and six pence a piece, and for coming
to the meeting too late, three pence an hour.

" That the town clerk shall judge equal for said fines, and shall have
the one-half of them for his pains, and in case any do refuse to paj'
them, to return the names to the town.

"That by vote that there shall be no alteration in the rule of rating
for the following year, and that Henry Tucker, Josepli Briggs, and
James Shaw are chosen raters for the following year."i

At the town meeting held on the 17th of May, 1675, only a month
previous to the destruction of the town by the Indians, "John Cooke was
chosen deputy for the following year. John Russell, constable ; Joseph
Allinne, grand juryman ; John Cooke, Arthur Hathaway, and James
Shaw, selectmen ; William Earlle, John Havverd, jr., and Thomas
Briggs, surveyors." •

A complaint being presented of the "badness of the fences," "Thomas
Teabor and James Shaw, for Acushnet ; John Smith and Pelige Sher-
man, for Ponagansett; Pelige . Briggs and William Wood for Acock-
sett," were authorized " to view men's fences and to notify them for a
sufficient fence, or condemn them and give men warning when they are
bad to mend them."

From these extracts taken from the original records of the township,
it is clear that the town had begun an organization full of promise and
usefulness. A few days elapsed when the outbreak of the Indians oc-
curred that brought destruction and desolation to Dartmouth and the
other towns, as before described.

So completely was this work of the savages accomplished that for
three years no attempt seems to have been made to reorganize and
establish the government; and so helpless were the inhabitants that
by order of the Plymouth Court they were exempted from taxation.
Slowly but steadily, however, they began to recover, and the meager
record indicates that a new and permanent existence was begun. The
bitter experience of the King Philip war had taught the inhabitants im-
portant lessons, and these were supplemented by wise counsel from the
court at Plymouth.

' Dartmouth Records.

46 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

At a town meeting held June 20, 1678, and the first that finds record
after the Indian attack, Seth Pope was chosen constable, and Arthur
Hatiiaway, grand juryman. It would seem that the term of release
from taxation was limited to three years, for at this meeting John
Smith, John Russell and Peleg Sherman were chosen raters; their spe-
cial duty being to raise money to discharge a debt due Simon Cooper.

The functions of the town government were resumed in 1679, when
a full list of officials was chosen as follows : John Cooke, deputy to the
Court at Plymouth ; John Cooke, Arthur Hathaway and John Russell,
selectmen; John Hathaway, constable; Richard Sison, Henry Tucker,
and Thomas Pope, surveyors ; John Haward, grand juryman ; Thom.as
Taber, clerk; George Sison, Thomas Briggs, and Seth Pope, raters.

The township seemed to have now settled into a permanent organ-
ization, and its steady development is seen from the records. The
majesty of the law was tested in the case of*one John Harmon, who was
probably a troublesome character. At the town meeting in 1682 Seth
Pope and James Samson were chosen to convey the said Harmon from
Dartmouth to Plymouth, and receive " twenty shilling for their pains
with what they have already received, to be paid out of the rate."
John Cooke was authorized to go with this John Harmon to the next
Court and plead for the clearing of the town of the said Harmon, for
which service Mr. Cooke was to receive " two shillings and sixpence
per day for the time he shall spend in the matter." It was agreed that
Cooke should have Harmon in custody in the mean time, and three shil-
lings and sixpence was allowed him for this service.

Roadways received the early attention of the inhabitants, and in 1684
Seth Pope was chosen to acquaint the Court " concerning the manner
of laying out of the roadway." He was also authorized to make
answer to what may be " proposed by the Court concerning the towns
being put under Bristol." At the town meeting of this year (1684) it
was ordered that the Indians be allowed to hunt, provided " that ihej-
do kill three wolves or three bears or pay ten shillings to each village ;
the Indians that belong to Quishnet are to pay ten shillings to John
Spooner, and the Indians belonging to Ponagansett are to pay ten
shillings to Return Badcok, and the Indians of Cocksett are to pay ten
shillings to James Sisson. The aforesaid money is to be recorded for
the towns now and delivered to the towns at their demand."

TOWN MEETING ORDERS. 47

It is recorded that the following persons " have taken the oath of
fidehty : John Cooke, John Russell, sen., John Smith, Arthur Hatha-
way, Samuel Jene, sen., Richard Kirby, sen., Joseph Tripp, Seth Pope,
Jonathan Delino, Thomas Taber, Johnathan Russell, James Samson,
John Shearman, William Wood, Samuel Cornell."

In 1685 the town was summoned to make answer to Plymouth Court
for neglecting to make a rate of twenty pounds, for the encouragement of
a minister to preach the word of God amongst them. John Cooke,
Seth Pope, and Joseph Tripp were chosen agents to represent the town
on this question. The following names are recorded " who have taken
the oath of fidelity, or freeman's oath," May 24, 1686: John Cooke,
John Russell, sen., John Smith, Samuel Jene, sen , Arthur Hathaway,
William Wood, James Sampson, John Shearman, George Cadman,
James Tripp, Samuel Jeney, jr., John Hathaway, Josiah Smith, Joseph
Russell, Hezikiah Smith, Deliverance Smith, Seth Pope, Joseph Trip,
Jonathan Russell, Jonathan Delino, Thomas Taber, Samuel Cornell,
James Sison, John Spooner, Nathaniel Soule, George Soule, John
Jeney, Eliazer Smith, Return Badcock, William Spooner, Lettice Jeney,

Shearman, Howland, Richard Kerb)', sen., Joseph Taber,

John Earl, Ralph Earle, jr., Stephen Peckum, Ralph Earl son of William
Earl, William Macomber, Samuel Willcocks, James Franklin, Samuel
Spooner, William Wood, Anthony Savery.

From the phraseology of the record it is probable that this list em-
braces the names of all of the inhabitants entitled to vote at the annual
meetings of the town.

In 1686 it was ordered by vote of the town that a meeting-house
be built that shall be " 24 feet long, 16 feet wide, 9 feet stud, and to be
covered with long shingles, and to be enclosed with planks and clab-
boards, and to have an under floor laid, and to be benched around, and
to have a table to it suitable to the length of said house. Also for two
light windows." Seth Pope and Thomas Taber were chosen "to agree
with a vvorkman to build said house ; " and it was ordered " that the
workmen shall be paid in the same spase of the County Rate to be
raised by rating all the ratable inhabitance, and gathered by the con-
stable, and paid to the workmen."

At this town meeting it was provided that John Russell, sen., should

48 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

make a pound and a pair of stocks. It is evident that the town liad
use for them, for he was ordered to furnish them " forthwith," and
it was stipulated that " four and twenty shiHings " should be paid him
by the constable.

Meetings of the Society of Friends were estabhshed in the township
about this time, tlieir services being held at a private house. They
built their first meeting-house in 1699, on the same spot now occupied
by the present one at Apponegansett. The land, comprising six acres,
was given them by Peleg Slocum.

The Dartmouth Monthly Meeting was organized during tiiis year
(1699), ^nd the records of the denomination are in existence from the
above date until the present time (1892).!

At the town meeting held February 16, 1703,2 it was voted "that
James Gardner should not be the minister of the town." This item is
a significant one and reveals the strained relations of the people with
the Established Church.

The cause of education was considered at this early period. In
1704-05, Daniel Shepherd was chosen schoolmaster, and "eighteen
pounds and his debt " was voted to him for his service for the year.

It was also ordered " that every householder being a planter shall
kill twelve blackbirds between the first day of January and the middle
of May yearly, on pain of forfeiting three half pence for every bird they
shall neglect killing of said number, said forfeiture to be added to each
defective person's town rate yearly to be paid into the town stock.
And further, it is ordered that for every blackbird that shall be killed
within the time Hmited over the number of twelve, each planter as above
shall be paid one penny out of the town stock, or be abated out of their
rate in the next town rate. It is also ordered that Joseph Tripp, Mat-
thew Wing, Nathan Rowland, John Russell and Isaac Spooner be the
persons to take an account of what birds are killed in the town, and
give an account yearly to the selectmen, so that the penalty may be
laid on such as are negligent and money may be raised to pay them
that kill more than their number. It is also ordered that there shall be

1 The records are in possession of the Dartmouth Monthly Meeting ; and a copy of the same
(from 1699 to 1793) is held by the New Bedford Monthly Meeting, for purpose of reference.

2 From 1686 to 1703 the town records are no

toivjv meeting orders.

a law book bought for the town's use and be paid for out of the town
rates."

In 1705 the town was presented to the Court at Boston for want of
a minister according to law. The matter came up for discussion at the
town meeting and answer was made to the charge, " that we have one
qualified as the law deems, an honest man, fearing God and hating cov-
etousness, and a learned orthodox minister, able to dispense the Word
and Gospel to us."

In 1709 it was agreed with Henry Howland " to make a pair of
stocks and whipping-post."

The wild beasts of the forest were a source of trouble to the inhab-
itants, as indicated in the action of the town in 17 13, when it was voted
" that twenty shillings shall be added to each person that shall kill a
wolf within the township of Dartmouth."

In 1 72 1 it was voted that " all geese running at large from the 1st
day of April to the last day of October without their wings cut and
without a yoke upon them shall be placed in the town pound, and the
owner of such geese shall pay one penny a piece for pounding the
same."

At the town meeting held in October of this year, "John Akin, Philip
Taber, and Thomas Taber, jr., were chosen trustees to receive Dart-
mouth's proportion of the ^50,000 — ;^S8o." It was voted that " no
man shall have more than ^^50, or less than;^25 of said money."

In 1722 the town voted that there shall be "three shillings allowed
for any grown wild cat that shall be killed within our township from
the last day of September to the first day of March yearly to the per-
son or persons that kill them, and six shillings for each wild cat killed
the other part of the year, and that the selectmen are ordered to make
such orders to prevent any fraud on the account, as they may think
proper." The town meetings of this year were frequent, the proceedings
relating largely to taxation, and important action was also taken bear-
ing upon the case of the Quakers in their appeal to the home govern-
ment, related on an earlier page.

The cause of education was advanced in 1728 by vote, "that there
shall be two schoolmasters upon the town charge beside the grammar
schoolmaster,"

50 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

The town engaged the services of two ministers in 1730, who found
favor with the inhabitants, as shown in a vote that PhiUp Taber and
Nicholas Davis be " chosen and approbated as ministers to dispense the
word of God and promote the gospel of Christ." The township placed
itself on record against the sale of ardent spirits by a vote taken at the
town meeting on November 23, 1730, "That Samuel Cornell shall have
the three pounds, six shillings and eight pence which was due by a note
under his hand to John Aikin, for a fine for his wive's selling drinks, the
note bearing date January, 1722-3."

The following record, passed in 1733-34, shows how the schoolmas-
ters of early days were paid and cared for. It was voted that " Will-
iam Lake as grammar schoolmaster, paid forty-five per annum " (prob-
ably forty- five pounds). Voted, " that all people who receive benefit
of the said schoolmasters by sending their children shall frankly give
said master their proportionable part of his diet, washing and lodging
as he shall be removed by order of selectmen."

In 1736 the bounds between Dartmouth and Tiverton were defined
by the selectmen of the two towns. The record quaintly reads : " We
began where the bounds between Little Compton and Dartmouth
ended, and renewed by a range of marked trees until we come to a
tree fallen down near the pond and so to the pond, which pond is the
bounds, and so to the stony brook, which brook is the bounds to Watupa
pond, the west side of said pond to a white oak tree, and from thence
over said pond to a stump of a tree fallen down, and by a range of old
marked trees, and marked them anew with a blaze, with three chops of
an axe over said blaze, until we cqme to the peaked rock, which rock
is by a path that leads from Dartmouth to Plymouth and ended there.
Dated 30th of the tenth month, called December. Joseph Anthony,
Philip Taber, jr., Isaac Wood, Restcom Sanford, Selectmen; and by
order of selectmen of Dartmouth and Tiverton."

In 1739 a new town- house was ordered to be built, and Capt. Sam-
uel Willis, George Lawton and John Howland were chosen a commit-
tee to superintend its erection. They were ordered " to have it finished
as soon as may be done with conveniency, and with convenient glass
windows and shutters." They were also instructed " to make the best
of the old town house either in selling it or in pulling it down and use

TOIFA^ AFFAIRS. 5,

what of it maybe profitable toward finishing oi the said new town-
house, and they which buy the said old house shall convey it oft' tlie
lot where it now stands."

At the town meeting held March 30, 1741, it was put to vote
" whether it be the town's mind to come under the government of
Rhode Island, and it passed in the affirmative by a clear vote."

A workhouse was established in 1742 for " the setting to work of all
idle persons," and William Sanford was placed in charge.

In 1746 the selectmen were instructed to " take charge of the child
of Sarah Manchester who had deceased, to care for her and administer
and recover the estate for the benefit of the said child." These two in-
stances illustrate the humane character of the local government in those
early times.

In 1747 the town clerk was empowered "to draw so much money
out of the treasury as will purchase a book for the town to record mar-
riages and the intention of marriages in."

At a town meeting held June 2d of the same year, Nathaniel Soul
[Soule] was chosen agent to represent the town of Dartmouth "in pre-
ferring a petition to the Great and General Court now assembled at
Boston, with the rest of the neighboring towns, who are for petitioning
for the several Courts to be holden for the county of Bristol to be re-
moved from Taunton to Dighton or elsewhere nearer the center of the
county."

The distance by road from Dartmouth to Taunton at that time was
thirty-five miles, and much inconvenience and hardship was experi-
enced by the inhabitants of this section in reaching the terms of Court.

The following petition was presented to the General Court at Boston
in 1747; it reveals continued division of opinion among the inhabitants
regarding church matters:

"The petition of us, the subscriber,«, inhabitants ot Accn.shnet village in Dartmouth,
in behalf .of ourselves and others humbly showeth that the Presbyterian Chuich anti
congregation in said village being now destitute of a settled mini.ster of the Gospel and
finding ourselves unable to proceed in calling and settling one either as a town precinct
and methods in which we settled in times past novi- failing and being desirou.s of a
speedy settlement, having been without a pastor for more than a year therefore humbly
pray your excellency and honors to consider our case and form us into a precinct by
the known bound.s of Acoushnet village and invest us with the privileges of a precinct.

52 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

or ill any other way cloath us with power regularly to proceed under the protection of
the law to call and settle an orthodox minister among us for which as in duly bound
your petitioners shall ever pray."

At a meeting held September 22, 1747, Capt. Lem'Il Pope and Chris-
topher Turner were chosen agents to show to the General Court on be-
half of the town that the above petition, signed by a small number of
the inhabitants of Acushnet village, should not be granted. It was
voted unanimously that the town was unwilling that " Acushnet village"
should be set off from Dartmouth. The record says that Samuel Willis,
Esq., was present but would not vote, " and declaired himself nuter."

Several ways were laid out in the year 1750 by the selectmen, all of
which were ordered recorded at a town meeting held May 15, 1750.
They are described as follows :

One "that comes from the way that leads from the northeast corner
of Robert Kirby's homestead ; " another, " running from Isaac Spoon-
er's homestead ;" and one " that begins at a stake standing in the dividing
line between Noah Allen's land and the land of the Giffords."

Another description of a way laid out by the selectmen of Dartmouth
on the second day of the third month, 1750, is as follows:

■' An open way of forty foot wide beginning at a stake standing in ye dividing line
lietween Noah Allen's land and ye land of ye Giffords and in the line of the way that
comes by David Giffords, from thence south four degrees and a half west twenty-four
rods to a stake and a heap of stones about it, thence south four degrees and a half east
eighteen rods to a stake and a heap of stones, thence south thirty degrees east thirty-
three rods to a stake and heap of stones which Archepas Hart declared to be ye north-
east corner bounds of John Handy's land, thence south twenty-four degrees and a half
east twenty-three rods to a stake and heap of stones which ye above said Archepas
Hart declared to be ye southeast corner bounds of ye said John Handy's land ; all the
bounds and ranges are on ye westward side of said way, which way Noah Allen prom-
ised to warrant to ye said town in liew of that way that runs through his meadow land
that was formerly there laid out, as witness my hand, Noah Allen.

" Finished by us the subscribers the day and date as above said,

" Humphrey Smith, } o 1 i t
Thomas Hathaway, \ fcelectmfen of
Jedediah Wood, S D^"""""'!'-
At a meeting held September 26, 175 i, Humphrey Smith was chosen
agent to prefer a petition to the General Court for the " setting a juris-
diction line between Dartmouth and Rochester,"

ACTS OF THE TOWN MEETING.

November 9, 1751, voted, " that Henry Howland should have twentj-
four pounds allowed him for his extraordinary services and for collect-
ing all the taxes in said town for the year 1750-1."

December 25, 1751, William Sanford gave the town one-quarter of
an acre of land on which the town- house was to stand forever. (So
reads the deed.)

From the following copy of a certificate found in the town records, it
appears that the authorities in those days were very careful regarding
those who were received as inhabitants of their towns:
" To the honorable the Selectmen of the town of Dartmouth ; —

" Gentlemen — These may certify that Thomas Anthony hath moved out of our town
to the town of Dartmouth, he thinking it being for his advantage, and if you will Re-
ceive him and his family mto your town we will Receive them back again at any time
when they shall become Chargeable, Provided you send them back as soon as they shall
become Chargeable, they being inhabitants here.

" By order of Council I have given forth this certificate.

" Portsmouth, June ye Sth, 1752. Robert Denniss, Con'l Cleik."

" The above said certificate was recorded Ijy order of the selectmen of Dartmouth
by me, Bartholemus Taber, Town Clerk."

The non-combative spirit of the majority of the inhabitants is shown
in their neglect to obey the law requiring each town to have on hand
a stock of powder and bullets. In a warrant issued by the selectmen
February 5, 1756, it is stated :

"Whereas by Law the Selectmen are obliged to Procure a Town Stock of Powder
and Bullets and we have been sent to by the Commission Officers of the Ridgment and
we daily expect to be fined unless we speedily Procure one ; now for the town at said
meeting to Pass a vote that the selectmen shall Draw money out of the Town Treasury
for to Procure a town stock according to law."

At a town meeting held February 17 the voters heeded the warn-
ing and passed the order. In reference to this ammunition the follow-
ing receipt is recorded :

" Dartmouth June ye IS, 17.5G.

"Then received of ye selectmen of ye town of Dartmouth one barrel and three quar-
ters of gunpowder and five hundred two quarters and three pounds of lead it being ye
stock ye selectmen procurred for ye town above sd and I promise to deUver out ye sd
powder and lead again to ye selectmen as they shall order and to their successors in sd

^'^''•'^"'••' A-^"^' Dartmouth,"

' JlRKII SwiKT. )

54 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

In 1758 the township was compelled to furnish its quota of soIcHlms
as follows :

'•Return of the Men inlisted or impressed in Dartmouth for His Majesty's Service,
within the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in the Regiment, whereof Kzra Rich-
mond by — is Col., to be put under the immediate Command of His Excellency, Jeffry
Amherst, Esq., Commander-in-Chief of His Majesty's Forces, in North America,— for
the Invasion of Canada. Samuel Tripp, age 24; James Salter, 17; Georfre Hack, 30 ;
Corn's Spooner, 26; George Jenne, 2-i ; Josiah Warren, 17; Zernal (?) Haskell, 34;
Nathaniel Haskell, 27 ; Thomas Wilwoks (?) 17 ; Gideon Sherman, 16; Joseph Caswell,
19; James Jones (Indian) 2.3.

" P. S. These men marched to Lake George, 1768.

"A Muster Roll of the Company from Dartmouth in His Majesty's Service, Under
the Command of Baeachiah Basset, Capt. 1760 : Samuel Trip, Joseph Caswell, Josiah
Drew, George Hack, Jehazael Jenny, James Jones, Gideon Sherman, Thomas Willcoks,
(all served seven months).

" A Muster Roll of the Company of Foot in His Majesty's Service Under Command
of Capt. James Andross, in a Regiment raised in Dartmouth by the Province of the
Mass. Bay, for the Reduction of CANADA ; whereof Thomas Dotty, Esq., Colonel.
Privates, John Rouse, James Spooner, William Willcocks, Aholiah Washburn, Phillip
Washburn, Isaac Wickom, John Peagon.

"1760— Stephen Bennett Inlisted Mch. 10, Age 22; Benjamin Brownell Inlisted
Mch. 20, Age 27; Gideon Bennit, Inlisted Mch. 17, Age 18; John Tucker, Born at
Dartmouth. Residence at Boston."

In this connection the following further extracts from the military-
records bear an especial interest for this locality :

"Pay Roll of the Company in His Majesty's Service, Under the Command of Capt.
Josiah Dunbar, Esq., 1763: John Tobey, (Father's name Timothy) served from Mch.
20 to Nov. 19, Silvanus Tobey. Bazeliel Wasliburn, Thomas Washburn, Richard Charles
Waist (Probably Waistcoat, as I find that name on the Roll), served from Mch. 24th to
Nov. 19th as Privates; George Hack, served from Mch. 22 to Nov. 19.

"List of OEBcers Commanded for the 2d Regiment of the Militia, First Company in
Dartmouth, in the County of Bristol, July, 1771 : Capt. Elnathan Tobey, First Lieut
Samuel Pope, Second Lieut. Elnathan Sampson, Ensign Chillingsworth Foster (since
made a Lieutenant).

'■ List of Officers Commanded for the Second Regiment of Militia in the County of
Bristol, Zaccheus Tobey, 1st Major, 1762.

" First Company in Dartmouth, Capt. Ebe'r Aken, Lieut. .Jona. Winslow, Ensign,
Blnan. Tobey.

"Second Company in Dartmouth — Capt. Job Almy, Lieut. James Wilkey, Ensign,
Jo.shua Richmond, Ensign, Jerh. Gifibrd.

•■ Third Company in Dartmouth — Capt. Ezek. Cornell, Lieut. William Hix, Ensign,
Samuel Brownell, Lieut. Beni. Davall.

A QUAINT RECORD. 55

" Fourth Company in Dartmouth — Capt. Benjamin Sherman, Lieut. Thomas Dennes,
Ensign, John Babcock.

" Fifth Company in Dartmoutli — Capt. Hezh. Winslow, Lieut. Benj. Terrey, Ensign,
James Clark."

In 1760 James Smith was granted the privilege of living in the work-
house for two years for $5 per annum. This sum he was to expend in
repairs on the house, and he was empowered to " take care of all the
poor and idle persons that shall be sent to him to keep them to labor."
A quaint law was in operation that made it necessary that the select-
men should be apprised of each new inmate of every man's house or the
acquisition of a ntw member in his family. The following is a copy of
a notice in the town records :

"To Humphrey Smith, Walter Spooner, and Ezekell Cornell the present selectmen ot
ye town of Dartmouth Greeting :

" This is to notify you as the law directs that I have taken in ray house a young
woman to dwell in said town named Elizabeth Baggs. daughter of John Baggs, of New-
port in the Colony of Rhode Island, &c., she came to reside with me this day. Given
under my hand this 30th of tlie six month called June 17G2, pr.

'■ William Anthony.

"Received the above July ye 14th, 17C2. ITumprey Smith, one of the selectmen of
Dartmouth.'

The events chronicled in this chapter span a century of time, and
compose quite all of any importance or interest on record that relate to
the early history of the township. It should be borne in mind that the
inhabitants of Dartmouth were not attracted thither because of its fertile
soil, and yet agriculture was their principal employment. Many had
located their homes on this, the border line of Plymouth Colony and far
away from the then centers of civilization, that they inight be free from
religious persecution. The growth of the township was necessarily
slow ; and it is only during the closing decades of the century that any
record is made that refers to industrial or maritime affairs.

HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

CHAPTER IV.

BEDFORD VILLAGE.

Founding of Bedford Village — Joseph Russell's Purchase — John Loudon's Settle-
ment — Benjamin Taber — Other Early Residents — Beginning of the Whale Fishery
— The Rotch Family — Extracts from Early Dartmouth Records.

nAVING in the preceding chapter given the details of early times
in the old town of Dartmouth and its vicinity, and of the strange
and often trying experiences of the pioneers, let us now follow the
founding and settlement of Bedford village. Joseph Rotch, an enter-
prising merchant from Nantucket, moved here in 1765 and established
himself in the whaling business. His first intention was to settle on
the Fairhaven side of the Acushnet River; but not being able to se-
cure satisfactory shore privileges, he made land purchases on the west-
ern slope. He purchased of Joseph Russell ten acres of land ^ in one
lot, besides other smaller tracts in various parts of the town. As the
territory had been held in the Russell family, and as this was the family
name of the Duke of Bedford, Mr. Rotch made use of the name and
Bedford village came into existence. Mr. Rotch found an infant settle-
ment established, composed of a few industrious merchants and artisans.

In 1760 John Loudon had purchased the first land sold from the
homestead farm of the Russells, an acre of ground just south of the
four corners (the intersection of the present Union and Water streets),
on which he built a house in 1 76 1. He was a caulker by trade, and his
intention was to carry on ship-building. The shore line of the land was
eligible for this purpose, the tide then flowing as far west as the present
South Water street. At one time Loudon kept a tavern. His house
was burned by the British, September 5, 1778.

In the spring of the same year (1761), Benjamin Taber purchased
land to the north of the site of Snell's bakery and erected a structure
for boat-building and block-making. He built the first whaleboat in

1 For deed see page 74, " Centennial of New Bedford."

/tpxS

^itno^iA^y O^^f^^^yL

STILES' S MAP.

the village. His home was in the house still standing on the north side
of Union street, the first one below North Water. This house was
built by Gideon Mosher, a mechanic, and was purchased of him by
Benjamin Taber in 1765. This, and other adjoining property, is still
held by the Taber family, and the buildings are used in the art business
of Charles Taber & Co.

John Allen, a house carpenter, was another early resident, and in
1 76 1 built a house on the south side of Union street below South Wa-
ter, in those days called Prospect street. This house he afterward sold
to Barzillai Myrick, a ship carpenter.

In 1762 Elnathan Sampson, a blacksmith from Wareham, purchased
a lot of land south of that owned by John Loudon, and north and east
of " land left for ways or streets." These ways or streets are to-day
known as Union and Water streets. Along the county road (now
County street) were the farm houses of Joseph Russell, Caleb Russell,
Ephraim Kempton and Samuel Willis, while on the river front was a
single wharf and a try-house.

In 1762 Rev. Ezra Stiles, of Newport, visited this locality. Among
his papers and documents, now in possession of Yale University, is a
sketch or map made by him of this territory and river. The drawing is
crude and incorrect in a few particulars, but it serves to lift the veil from
the past, and gives a glimpse of the place as it appeared more than a
century ago. From this map it is easy to understand that the western
shore of the Acushnet River was a broad domain of forest and meadow,
and that the scattered houses of the few inhabitants made no percepti-
ble break in the primeval scene. On the eastern shore is a small clus-
ter of houses at Oxford village, and another near the corner of Bridge
and Main streets. Between this and the " point of rocks," known to
the present generation as Fort Phoenix, there is one solitary house
marked on the map as that of Mr. Allen. A " fort in ruins " is located
about where is now the beacon, but no fort is indicated on the extreme
point where now stands Fort Phoenix. It is, therefore, a fair conclusion
that this structure was a creation of the American Revolution.

The whale fishery was at this period in its infancy, a few small vessels
being employed as early as 175 i. Joseph Russell, the founder of Bed-
ford village, was the pioneer in this industry, which became an impor-

HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

tant factor in the growth and development of the place. The voyages of
these craft of forty or sixty tons were made on the Atlantic coast, and
were from six weeks to two months in duration. The operations of this
business were necessarily limited by want of capital and experience.

71 J.J^Mh ^ 071 ^c^lfrTr^

2Ap

From a sketch made in June, 1762, by Rev. Ezra Stiles, of Newport, R. I., and preserved
among his papers in Yale College Library.

Such was the primitive condition of the settlement when Joseph
Rotch made his permanent residence here in 1765. Under the mighty
impetus given by this energetic business man, with his abundant means

ENTERPRISE OF JOSEPH ROTCH. 59

and skillful methods, the wheels of industry began to move. Houses
and shops multiplied, highways were opened, wharves were built, the
population increased, and the river front became the center of an active
business. Ship-building was vigorously prosecuted, one after anothtr
vessel was launched, and soon a goodly fleet was engaged in the
fishery on the coast, returning with good cargoes that found a ready
market. Other ships were engaged in the merchant service, sailing
over every ocean and bringing home the products of other countries in
exchange for those of our own.' Under a grove of button wood trees
that stood by the river bank, near the spot where now is Hazard's wharf,
the keel of the first ship was laid. This vessel, built and owned by
Francis Rotch, the son of Joseph, was named \h& Dartmouth and placed
in the merchant service. It was not only famous as being the first ves-
sel built on these shores, but it was distinguished in the American Rev-
olution as one of the fleet of tea ships that were boarded by the "Tea
Party" in Boston harbor on a certain evening of December, 177 j.
Other famous ships were the Bedford and the Rebecca, which weie
among the first built here.

Joseph Rotch was born in Salisbury, England, in 1704, and with his
three sons, William,- Joseph and Francis, removed from Nantucket in
1765. His residence was located on the west side of what is now Water
street, just south of William. It was burned by the British during the
invasion in 1778. (See sketch of the Rotch family in later pages of
this work.)

' At this time, and even as late as 1815, the tide flowed close up to Water street, at the foot of
Elm ; southward the shore took an easterly bend, and then swept southwesterly to the very head
of what now is Commercial street, on Water.

- William Rotch, sr., who came to New Bedford in 1795, is thus described by his grand-daughter,
Mrs. John Farrar, in her charming book, published in 1866, " Recollections of Seventy Years :"

" William Rotch was a very handsome man, tall and erect, dressed in a whole suit of light drab
broadcloth, with knee breeches, shoes and buckles. His head was a little bald, with flowing white
locks, while still in the prime of life. His appearance commanded respect, and his manners were
as polite as Quaker sincerity would permit. My earliest recollections date back to the time when
my parents and grand-parents resided in Dunkirk, France, during the latter part of the reign of
Louis XVI. • • • • William Rotch was a native of Nantucket and a member of the Society of
Friends. • • • » The residence in a French town of such an exemplary of Friends was hailed
by the English Quakers as affording an excellent opportunity for promulgating their doctrines,
and a succession of preachers came over to Dunkirk for that purpose, and always staid at our
house. As they spoke no French, my father (Benjamin) used to act as their interpreter. But once,
when he could not attend, a person was employed in his stead. The preacher began his discourse
with these words : ' Job was an upright man,' and they were rendered into a French expression
equivalent to, 'Job was a tall, gentlemanly man,' and the rest of the sermon was probably no
nearer than that to the real meaning."

6o HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Under the skillful and energetic leadership of these pioneers the whal-
ing enterprise rapidly developed to a remarkable degree of success, only
to be as quickly paralyzed by the war with the mother country.

At the town meeting, June 24, 1766, Walter Spooner was chosen to
represent the town in making an alteration in the jurisdiction line be-
tween Dartmouth and Freetown. In 1768 the question was considered
by the citizens relating to " the Incouragingour own Manufactures."

The following extract from the Dartmouth records foreshadows the
events that led up to the American Revolution : At the town meeting
held September 19, 1768, "Walter Spooner was chosen as committeeman
to appear at Funal [Faneuil] Hall in Boston on the 22d instant, Septem-
ber, and joyn the committee in the several Towns in the Government to
Consult on some wise and prudent Measuies to prevent the distress and
misery that is like to come on said Government by reason of a Number
of Troops to be Quartered on said Government."

March 8, 1769, the highways known at the present time as Union,
North Water and South Water streets were laid out.

In 1770 the town took an advanced step in the education of youth
and voted, " There be one Grammar Schoolmaster Provided for said
Town by the Selectmen and by them placed and replaced as they shall
judge proper."

The following interesting document is found among the Dartmouth
records. It points with no uncertain hand towards the birth of that
Abolition sentiment which subsequently developed to such a degree as
to make New Bedford famous in the great anti- slavery movement :

" Whereas Elnathan Samson of DartniouUi in the county of Bristol and Province of
the Massachusetts Bay, in New England, Blacksmith did on the eighth Day of Novem-
ber, A. D. 1769, at Publick Auction purchase, buy and become possessor of a Negro
Man slave Named Venter aged about Forty six years as may appear by a bill of sale of
said Negro given to the said Elnathan Samson by Job Williams a Deputy Sheriff in said
county of Bristol, who was then Taken and sold by virtue of a Writ of execution where-
in one Daniel Russell was creditor and one Jeremiah Child Debtor, as the proper Estate
of the said Jeremiah Child before the said Sale and the said Elnathan Samson Did after-
wards reconvey one half of said Negro to John Chaffee of said Dartmouth, Spermaceti
Manufacturer. These are therefore to certify whom it may concern, that we the said
Elnathan Samson and John Chaffee for and in consideration of the Sum of Twenty one
pomuls six shillings and five pence Lawful money of .^d Province to us in hand paid by
the said Negro man Venture, the Receipt whereof we hereby Acknowledge have aquit-

THE TOWN FINANCES. 6i

ted and renounced all Right Title or Interest whatever in and to said Negro & Do here-
by set him at full Liberty to act his own will from the day of the Date hereof forever.
In witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands and seals this ninth Day of July in

the Tenth of His Majestys Reign Anno Domini : 177 Signed and

sealed in the presence of Edward Pope.

" Elnathan Sampson,

•'Elisha Tobet, "John Chaffee."

" William Rotch.

" Bristol, s?., July 0th, 1770. Personally appeared Elnathan Samson and John Chafiee
& acknowledged this Instrument to be their act & deed, before me Elisha Tobey, Just,
of the Peace

" Recorded by me this eighteenth Day of July 1770

" Benjamin Aikin, Town Clerk."

Elisha Tobey, Esq., was elected to represent the town ot Dartmouth
in "a Great and General Court appointed to be convened, held and
kept for His Majestys service at Harvard College in Cambridge upon
Wednesday the 29th Day of May Instant."

The importance of regulating the seining of fish near the Dartmouth
shores was recognized by the town, and on May 21, 1 771, it was voted
" to lay a duty of two Shillings Lawful Money per Barrel on all fish
Seigned within the harbors or coves of this Town this present year
and the duty Rased thereby to be paid to the Town Treasurer for.the
use of Said Town."

In 1773 it was voted " that the workhouse in the Town, of Dartmouth
be Properly Endowed with suitable Utensils for said house and to be
regulated according to Law."

It was also voted " to raise by way of tax the sum of Eighty seven
pounds eight shillings and four pence Lawful money to defray the
charges accrued to said town by Building the New Workhouse in
Bedford in Dartmouth." This is the first instance in which Bedford
is mentioned in the Dartmouth records. The building alluded to was
located on the east side of South Sixth street, between Spring and
School.

The following account of the financial condition of the town in 1774
is worthy of preservation here. May I Ith, Thomas Hathaway, William
Wood and John Wady were appointed to receive and examine the
accounts of debts brought against the town. They found the " hole of

62 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

the Demand Brought against said town that are Come to hand Amount

to the sum in Lawful money . . - - $;^ 186^7=0 14!.

We also and by outstanding orders £197=0=0.

£383=7=0i
£1=17=1=^

We also find the bal. due to
the town from John Smith to be '
In Mathew Wings hand, .... £1= 5=5=0

In Thomas Denneys hand, .... 4= 3=6=i

In Isaac Spooners hand, ... .4= 9=0=-i

In Samuel Haws hand, .... 118= 4=0=0

In Prince Aliens hand, ..... 76= 9t— '4=0
In Natha'll Potters hand .... 80= 9=0=0

In WiUiam Tallmans hand, .... 27=11=1=0

£;!14=14=6=A

r4 May 10th Town in Debt, . . . 383= 7=0=i

Towns Credit, .... 314=14=6=i

£68=12=6=0
1773 Terries Account, . . . £30= 0=0=0

Crans oder, ..... 0= 0=0=0

Town of Dartmouth in Debt May the 11th, 1774, £98=12=6

The following article in relation to the first proprietary lines in New
Bedford, was published in the New Bedford Evening Standard, March
26, 1885. It was written by Hon. Thomas M. Stetson, and with his
permission is inserted here :

"On May 31, 1711, a splendid tract was laid out to Manasseth Kimton. It extended
1^ miles west from the river, and was 182^ rods wide. August 25, 1711, the home-
stead of Joseph Russell, jr., was laid out to him 96 rods wide. The two locations by
their terms bound on each other. The exterior line on the north was the Willis line,
and on the south the Allen line. The Willis line is well known. It is still visible from
Cedar street nearly to Rockdale avenue. It was proved in the case of Johnson vs.
Black. It is authenticated also by Mr. William A. Read, the present representative of
the race of Col. Samuel Willis. Mr. Reed still owns lands (which never have bee"!
sold) bounded to that line. It lies 143 feet south of Smith street. The Allen line is
also well known. It is the north side of the ' Common Burial Ground ' ; the south side
of the Fifth street school-house lot, the garden of the late Joseph Grinnell, etc., etc.

" From this Willis line to the Methodist church line is 132 J^ rods. This will not
do at all, for the ' Kimton Lott ' was 182| rods wide. From the Allen line to the
Methodist church line is 158| rods. This will not do either, for the location to Joseph
Russell, jr., was but 96 rods wide, and the liberality of the old surveyors could jiever
ovei-nin so 11111. -h. Wli Tr, then, was the original Kimton line ?

THE "KIMTON LINE:' 67,

" The total width of the two lots (Russell and Kimton) was, by the calls of their loca-
tions of 1711, 278^ rods. "By modern measure it is 290^V rods, that is an excess of 4i
percent., an excess by no means unusual m ancient surveys. The excess is ascertained
here, because the positions of the Allen line and of the Willis line are known. The
same surveyor in the same year surveyed both the Russell lot and the Kimton lot, and
we may presume he used the same method of measure in each, viz. : exceeding our
modern measure by i^ per cent.

'• Applying this rule, we find the original Kimton line. It ran from the river at foot of
Shepard's lane, along the south side of the house of Thomas R. Rodman, esq., and
through a .singular 'jog ' which existed not long since at the south gate of the late
James Arnold on County street. [See city map of 1871]. In this jog stood securely
au oak — not very large — stunted, gnarled, and evidently quite aged. It interfered with
the natural curve of Mr. Arnold's carriage way. Its ugliness was so salient that I once
asked him why he left it in front of his beautiful grounds. He said, ' That oak is a
historic bound.' It is stated by Mr. Edward Russell that a lane formerly ran westward
from this point.

" Another test is useful. The ' Kimton Line ' was only 38 rods from the still existing
'Lowden Wall.' [See location to Jo.seph Russell, jr., of his "addition" May 10, 1712].
This distance, with the excess of 4i per cent, as above, brings us again to the Arnold
oak.

"It is not surprising that the original Kimton line has left few or no traces upon the
ground. It existed only thirty-flve years, and during that period the territory east of
County street was substantially a forest. The first settler m the village of Bedford came
about 1760. West of County street there were a few cleared fields. The ancient wall
which extends westerly by the five trees across Mr. William J. Rotch's field to Cottage
street, may be the sole representative now existing of the Kimton line of 174 years
ago.

" It may be said that the Kimton line left the river near the ' Southward side of a little
run of water,' and that such a run existed formerly at the Hazard's Wharf Dock, which
is in the line of the Methodist Church. This is so, and if there were no other ' little
run ' it would be quite important. But there was another before the gutters and sew-
ers diverted its supply. It originated west of the court-house, where the land (now
owned by Mrs. Eliot) was once, as Mr. Arnold stated, a .cedar swamp. It crept and
wound eastward, keeping the sidewalk south of the court-house quite wet a few years
ago. It next showed its moisture on the sidewalk north of Mrs. Ellis's house on Eighth
street. It next appeared in the three spring-holes of City Hall Square. Passing Cheap-
side it had acquired the character of a ' little spring brook,' and is so described in the
Joseph Rotch purchase of 1765. The southwest corner of Mr. Rotch's purchase just hit
this spring brook. It next gave name to the Fountain Lot (China Hall), and justified
the establishment of the tan yard in Sears Court. Tiien turning southeasterly it cross-ed
Union street at the store of J. & W. R. Wing. Here was a street bridge. It next jus-
tified another tan yard (James Davis's) about where the police court-house stands, and
finally debouched into the propeller dock, eastward of Spring street or Shepherd's lane,
just where it should, to answer the descriptive call of the location to Manasseth
Kimton.

64 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

" If all this is true it may still be asked how did Joseph Russell (son of Joseph Russell,
jr.). become owner of the land between the Arnold oak and the Methodist church line.
He certainly was such owner, and after 1760 was conveying the lots near the four cor-
ners to John Lowden, Benjamin Taber, Blnathan Sampson and others. In 1765 he
conveyed to Joseph Rotch the tract from Rotch's wharf to about Cheapside, and in the
same year the tract on which the city library stands, and part or the whole of city hall,
to David Shepherd. This question can be answered.

'• In 1733 half of Manasseth Kimton's share in the Dartmouth proprietary came to his
nephew Ephraim. This included rights to further locate undivided laud, and also some
land that had been already located in severalty, notably the great tract between the
Willis and Russell lines. This land had been qualified at 2S2i acre.*, but really con-
tained about 500 acres. In the same year Ephraim conveyed 150 of these acres — rather
less than a third — to his brother Samuel. In 173G Ephraim and Samuel made an agree-
ment to divide the whole tract, so that Samuel should have his 150 acres on tlie south
and next to Joseph Russell, jr. In 1742 they carried this into effect. Ephraim con-
veyed all his right in the southern 150 acres to Samuel, and Samuel released to Eph-
raim all his right in the residence on the north and extending to the Willis line. Thus
Samuel's 150 acres became bounded by the Arnold oak on the south and by the Metho-
dist church line on the north. In 1744 Col. Samuel Willis bought all this of Samuel for
£300 and two years later sold it for £500 to Joseph Russell, jr., who thus became sole
owner from the common burial ground to Hazard's dock, and the original Kimton line
became extinct

" Until further information turns up we will conclude that the boundary between
Russell and Kimton passed at or near the Arnold Oak, his ' historic bound.' As the
other line, viz., by the Methodist church to Hazard's dock, has left so many traces it
will doubtless continue to be styled the ' Kempton line.' But it was not the original
line of Manasseth Kimton, the first and largest landholder in the populous part of New
Bedford."

In 1768 there were in the township 772 dwelling houses, 158 tan,
slaughter, and other workhouses, thirty grist, fulling and saw mills,
one iron works, 525 horses, 797 oxen, 1,965 cows and heifers, 7,108
goats and sheep, 383 swine, 10,236^ acres of pasturage land, 2,124
acres of tillage land. There were twenty- one persons between the ages
of fourteen and forty- five years, who were held as slaves, or, as the rec-
ord reads, "servants for life;" 2,933 tons of vessels of every kind, 16,-
400 superficial feet of wharves. The number of rateable polls in 1765,
was 1,033; in 1768,1,148; in 1773, 1,231; and in 1774,1,240. Total
valuation of estates, real and personal: In 1765, £l\,-j\o\ in 1773,
£AA'^7A\ in 1774. £aA,S^O. From these statistics, gleaned from
original docuinents, it would seem that the township of Dartmouth was
in a prosperous condition at the period when the American Revolution
becran.

THE TEA TAX.

CHAPTER V.

DARTMOUTH IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

The Tea Tax and its Consequences — Opposition of the Colonies to the Mother
Country — Approach of War — Dartmouth Soldiers on the March — Local Naval Op-
erations — Story from the Pope Manuscript — ExpJoit of the Sloop Falcon — The Bat-
tle in Buzzard's Bay — Bunker Hill — Dartmouth's Records of the Revolution —Town
Meeting Proceedings Relating to the War.

THE Colonies were now in tlie atmosphere of the mighty struggle
against the tyrannies and oppressions of the mother country.
Events were occurring throughout the land that inspired the spirit of
rebellion and imbued the American patriot with earnest desires to
be free from arbitrary government. Dartmouth had its own peculiar
experiences in the Revolution, and its local history touches many of the
important events, the issues of which brought glory and final success to
the American cause.

One of the most famous incidents of the American' Revolution was
the destruction of large cargoes of tea in Boston harbor on the evening
of December i6, 1773. Since a Dartmouth ship, built by Dartmouth
mechanics and owned by a Dartmouth merchant, was a prominent fig-
ure in this event, it is fitting to briefly sketch the story in these pages.

The tea tax imposed by the British government aroused great indig-
nation in America, and the use of tea was practically discontinued
throughout the land. Patriotic men and women refused to drink it,
merchants would not buy it, and the American market of the East In-
dia Company was well-nigh ruined. On the lOth of May the govern-
ment passed a law authorizing the company to export it on their o\\ n
account, shipping it to consignees who were appointed in the principal
colonies. The Sons of Liberty determined that the tea should not be
landed, for already three loaded ships were on their way to our shores.
The final outcome of this feeling was the casting overboard, by the ex-
cited people, of the first cargo of tea that arrived in Boston harbor. Two
hours' work and the deed was accomplished, and the marauders retired

66 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

in good order. This affair gave wonderful impetus to the American
cause throughout the country. Meetings were held everywhere, at
which resolutions were passed approving this plucky resistance. Even
the women joined the protest by making solemn vows that they would
not drink tea till the act of Parliament was repealed. A meeting was
held in Dartmouth in January, 1774, at which fifty- seven women were
present. Strong patriotic action was taken. They pledged themselves
to abandon " tea drinking" until the unjust act was repealed. Some
of them, hearing that one of the citizens had just purchased some of the
proscribed article, waited upon him and requested that he return it.
This he gallantly did without delay, much to their gratification. They
treated him to a glass of this country's wine. Several gentlemen pres-
ent on this occasion honored him with a round of cheers.'

As a legitimate result of this important event (the Boston tea-party)
the people of the colonies, especially those of New England, grew bold
in their open defiance of the oppressive acts of Parliament. The latent
strength of the coming nation began to assert itself, " committees of
safety " were organized on the recommendation of the Provincial Con-
gress, companies of minute men were formed, military stores collected
in convenient places, all in anticipation of the coming struggle. In
Boston, Prescott, Warren, Revere, Church, Hancock, Adams and others
(in all about thirty, most of them mechanics,) banded themselves to-
gether, and two by two they traversed the city nightly, watching with
jealous eyes every movement of General Gage and the British troops.
Every suspicious act was reported at their midnight meetings. They
were keenly alive to the importance of watchfulness, for they well
knew that General Gage was disturbed by the large amount of military
stoies collected at Concord. Telegraph and telephones were then un-
known, and so the church belfry became the signal station ; the
lighted lantern the flashlight that. was to send out to the watchers the
earliest information. Swift horses were ready to carry intrepid riders
into the surrounding towns with the rallying call to the minute men.
Anxious hours these must have been to the patriotic heart. The crisis

' On the shady side of Fir avenue, in our Rural Cemetery, close to the frontline of the burial lot,
stands a grave-stone, weather beaten and stained. It bears the following inscription : *' Erected
to the memory of Henry Perkins, who died February i8, 1836, aged 87 years, A soldier of the Rev-
olution. He was a participant in the famous Boston tea-party."

Cii^. 4'. (^

DARTMOUTH'S PATRIOTISM. 67

came on the 19th of April, 1775, when the British troops in sohd col-
umns marched out of Boston and made their attack on Lexington and
Concord. Paul Revere mounted his horse and made his famous ride
into the surrounding towns. "The Britishers are coming !" was the
alarm that he sounded. The minute men from Acton, Medford, Sud-
bury and the near villages responded to the call. The war was begun. 1

And what had Dartmouth to do with this mighty event? What part
did its villages of Bedford, Fairhaven, Acushnet, Padanaram and West-
port take in these opening struggles for liberty ? One of these swift
riders sped to this southern shore, giving the alarm to the towns through
which he passed. Down he came, through the road now called Acush-
net avenue, giving the call to Acushnet and Fairhaven. Into Bedford
village he dashed, sounding the call " to arms ! " What excitement
must have followed the arrival of this courier! What painful forebod-
ings must have filled every heart when the drum -beat was heard
through the town I

On the 2 1 St day of April (mark the date, for the attack on Lexington
was on the 19th,) three companies of minute men marched out of Dart-
mouth and went into camp at Roxbury to become a part of that grand
army of twenty thousand men gathered for the defence of American
liberty. The following are the rolls of honor :

A p.iy roll of the minute company which marched from Dartmouth April 21, \~i~h :
Captain, Thomas Kempton ; first lieutenant, AmasaSoper; second lieutenant, Gamaliel
Bryant; sergeants, John Chadwick, John Swift, George Brownell, Ezra Winslow ;
corporals, James Spooner, Elijah Allen, Simson Spoouer, Jeduthan Spooner; drum-
mer, Benjamin Spooner; fifer, Obed Cushman; privates, Eleazer Allen, iSfoah Ball,
David Badcock, Prince Brownell, John Coggshall, Lemuel Hathaway, Thomas Ingra-
ham, Michael Spooner, John Spooner, Joshua Austin, Lettis Washburn, William Wash-
burn, Ward Spooner, John Jenney, Peter Sands, Simeon Fuller, Robert Trightou,

2 "The bad news flew fast. Into the country in all directions men rode, carrying the tearful tid-
ings. There was a shocli of pity and terror which crystallized into a fierce determination to do or
die, and men grasped their muskets. Old Putnam, the boldest of men, unhitched his horse from
the plow, and at the head of his troops marched on to Boston. Arnold started with his men from
New Haven, declaring that none but Almighty God should stop him. Company after company
followed him. So it was m Massachusetts. Hastings and Childs led the men of Greenfield (they
volunteeredtoaman); Stacy, the men of New Salem; Prescott, the men of Groton; John Stark
marched at the head of a crowd of volunteers from New Hampshire. In three days twenty thou-
sand Americans had gathered about Boston eager to fight for liberty. General Ward took com-
mand, and General Gage, who commanded the English troops, was besieged in Boston by a crowd
of exasperated men." — New England History.

68 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Thomas Wrightington, Giles Tallman, Samuel Wait, Thomas Washburn, Samuel Trip,
Thomas West, John Donerson, Robert Stewart, John Miles, Robert Grossman, John Nye,
Benjamin Ellis, Samuel Howland, Jesse Boin, Job Winslow, George Badcock.

A pay roll of militia who marched from Dartmouth for Roxbury April 21, 1775, un-
der the command of Captain Luen Pope: Captain, LuenPope; first lieutenant, Isaac
Drew; second lieutenant, Jacob Pope; sergeants, Isaac Annabel, Alden Spooner ; pri-
vates, Edward Eldredge, David Todd, Jacob Hathaway, Israel Jenney, John Chapman,

Hathaway, Pierce Brownell, John Noells, Joseph Martin, David Kirby, Sam.

Sherman, Edward Stoddard, Cornelius Spooner, Thomas Jenney, Ebnr. Hammond,
lohabod Perkins, Elicher Hathaway, Joseph Chornish, Jona. Jenney, Samuel Joy, Will.
Warren, Benjamin Roach.

Pay roll of the minute company which marched out of Dartmouth under command of
Captain Daniel Egery, April 21, 1775: Captain, Daniel Egery ; first lieutenant, Jno.
Perkins; second lieutenant, Avery Parker ; sergeants, Thomas Marshall, Joseph Pope,
Joshua Loring, James Kempton ; drummer, Ephraim Drew ; corporals, Silas Cross, Jno.
Eastland, Ezra Gauzy ; privates, Daniel Kempton, Thomas Anderson, Thomas Crandon,
Isaac Barrows, Abisha Jenne, Joseph Hinckley, Nathaniel Hammond, Thaddeus Par-
ker, Seth Pope, Josiah Damons, Simeon Clark, Ebenezer Jenne, Ansel Blossom, Sam-
uel Tupper, Jeremiah Stoddard, John Cowan, Samuel Cushman.

According to the pay rolls, this call was for five days' service ; but
these companies were soon after enrolled in Colonel Danielson's regi-
ment of foot of the army of the United Colonies of North America.

" I well remember," says John K. Gushing, grandson of the com-
mander, Capt. Kempton, " hearing my mother tell the story as she heard
it from my grandfather's lips, how, when the news arrived in town, he was
at work upon his new house, situated on what is now Thomas street. He
was at work on the outside of the building when the alarm was brought
to hiin (and it must have been conveyed to him by the swift rider) as
the chief militarj^ man of the village. 'You must take care of every-
thing now, for I am going to camp at Roxbury,' he said to his family,
as he hastened away to muster his company of minute men. One of
the neighbors took grandfather's horse, and away he went carrying the
startling news into Rhode Island." Captain Kempton, in command of
the first company mentioned, was an important man in his day and gen-
eration, for he was soon commissioned colonel and had already held the
office of ensign under George III.

The organization of the Revolutionary army went on rapidly at Bos-
ton ; and on May lo, less than a month after the battle of Lexington,
the Provincial Congress, then in session at Philadelphia, elected George

THE ''FALCON'S" CAPTURES. 69

Washington commander-in-chief; Artemus Ward, Charles Lee, Phih'p
Schuyler and Israel Putnam, major-generals; and Seth Pomeroy, Rich-
ard Montgomery, David Wooster, William Heath, Joseph Spencer,
John Thomas, John Sullivan, and Nathaniel Greene, brigadier-generals.
The organization of the army of the United Colonies was complete with
a force of about thirteen thousand men. General Gage, with his British
troops, was shut up in Boston, and the city was surrounded with a cordon
of colonial troops, who cut off to a serious extent the subsistence for his
army. The naval vessels under his command were sent along the coast,
foraging for supplies ; and it so happened that the sloop of war Fako7i,
Captain Linzee, was dispatched to Martha's Vineyard to obtain cattle and
sheep. Rodolphus W. Crocker states that the house he now owns and
hves in, at Vineyard Haven, was occupied by the officers, and the sitting-
room was their headquarters. At that time it was owned by Tristam
Luce, who was in serious agttation lest his farm stock might be sacri-
ficed. The commander informed him that the soldiers had been so long
without meat that he could not be responsible for their acts. He prom-
ised him, however, that he should retain a milch cow ; and so to make
her safety sure, Mr. Luce kept her at night in the room occupied by
himself and his good wife. The soldiers took from the island many
thousand sheep.

A tradition is given of a Portuguese who resided on Martha's Vine-
yard, and who gained a livelihood in a small vessel by fishing. One day
on the sound he was overhauled by the Falcon and ordered to heave to.
Not understanding the English language very well he did not compre-
hend the order, but supposed the inquiry to be who he was. He
mounted the rail and shouted " Manuel Jo." A second time he was
commanded to heave to, and a second time he shouted back, " Manuel
Jo." Again the order came with a threat, " Heave to or we will fire into
you." "Manuel Jo, fire and pe plowed," was his reply, and he came
about and put for the shore. He was allowed to escape. While the
Falcon was cruising in the sound she captured two sloops, one belong-
ing in Wareham. The crews were put on board under the charge of a
lieutenant. The story of their recapture, on Saturday, May 13, 1775, is
told in the manuscript history of the Pope family, by Joshua L. Pope, who
received it from the lips of his father. Captain Nathaniel Pope, one of

70 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

the heroes of the first naval capture of the American Revolution. He
was acting lieutenant, in charge of the minute company of this famous
exploit:

" On Saturday afternoon of the 13th of May, 1775, twenty-four days after the battle
of Lexington, the two mihtary companies were in a field just out of the village paraded
for drill. While they were engaged in their instructions a rider was seen coming at full
speed from the east, who, on nearing, turned to those in the field, and, leaping from his
panting gelding, informed them that a twenty gun ship of the enemy, having come
into the Vineyard Sound, had captured two sloops, one of which belonged in part to
himself, a resident of Wareham ; that they were in the bay manned and armed as decoy
cruisers, and that the object of his visit was to apprize the ' Committee of Safety ' of
their character. [These committees were appointed in all the colonial towns by recom-
mendation of the Colonial Congress in 1774.]

" With this information it was immediately resolved that the old sloop Success, of 40
tons burden, then lying in the wharf, be put in service to intercept the enemy. It was
deemed that a force of 25 men would be sufficient, and that number would be as many
as could be put out of sight on the Success. These points settled, the companies were
paraded, calls were made for volunteers, and at the tap of drum those ready to
offer would step two paces to the front. At the drum beat of Capt. Glig (a nick-name
given to the drummer, Mr. Spooner,) the whole 50 men stepped forward. As only 25
could be taken, a ballot for chances was taken. At 9 p. m., all being ready and on board,
the Success, with the two commanders, Capts. Nathaniel Pope and Daniel Egery, the
drummer, a boy (in after years a shipmaster of Fairhaven), and the 25 rank and file
put out from the wharf at Fairhaven. There was light air from the southwest with
fog, and as the little wind was adverse the sloop had to be ' swept ' from the river to the
lower harbor, where she was then left to drift. Capt. Pope had the helm and conduct
of the vessel, the programme being that but two men — the two commanders and a boy
— be seen, Capt. Glig (drummer) to remain in the cabin and the 25 men in the hold;
that in event of discovering the cruisers (both or either) a rap of Capt. Pope's foot upon
deck at the helm to bring Capt. Egery to him, if below, for a council of war, when he
returning below, would through the bulkhead partition between the cabin and the hold,
order the men to be ready, and when Capt. Pope should have succeeded in placing his
vessel in a desired position, a second tap of his foot to immediately followed by a tap
by Glig on the drum in the cabin, a signal for the men to leap on deck ready for action.

"The night continued dark and foggy. At early dawn they heard the crowing of
cocks at the east of them on Sconticut Neck, thus defining their position. Jnst as the
gray dawn pierced the fog, a sloop at anchor and but a cable's length from them was dis-
covered directly under their lee in the tide, which would in a few minutes sweep them
upon her. The discovery by the other party soon brought the hail, " Ship, ahoy. Sheer off.
Tou'll be into us I " ''Aye, aye," was the response of Capt. Pope at the helm, while his
rap immediately brought Capt. Egery from below, whose glance at circumstances was suf-
ficient, when he disappeared to apprise his men and await the second rap. Upon the
deck of the vessel at anchor were two men, one a sailor, the other a marine in His Maj-

CAPTAIN POPE'S NARRATIVE. 71

esty's service, who immediately commenced loading his gun. The sailor now again
cried out, " Sheer off, you'll be into us ! " "Aye, aye," again responded Capt. Pope, at
the helm, now endeavoring to lay his vessel aboard. On the next instant the tap of
the drum brought the eyes of both the sailor and marine to the Success, at the moment
the men were tumbling up from the hold.

" The marine immediately dropped his gun and seizing an axe was about to cut the
cable. The sailor ran out upon the bowsprit to loose the jib ties, but both were checked
by the threats of Capt. Pope, who, in the next moment, laid the Success alongside her
victim, when, grappling the two vessels together, the patriots leaped aboard, surprised
the party below with this unceremonious morning call. There were below eleven officers
and men, well armed and prepared for rough work, all of which ample provision was
turned over to their captors. With the rise of the sun the fog disappeared, a gentle
breeze sprang up at the west, the thirteen prisoners were disarmed and placed below,
their position secured by the weight of cable and anchor put over the gangway. Capt.
Pope, with one man and the boy, took charge of the prize and prisoners. Both vessels
then made sail for the light-house about three miles from town. On nearing the point
a consultation was held, and it was decided that the prize be run in and the Success
stand out and look for the second cruiser. In half an hour the prize with the prisoners
was at anchor ofJ' Fairhaven.

"The Success standing out in the bay soon discovered the second vessel at anchor in
a cove to the west, and making sail, ran out for a chase. A near approach evincing
their mutual character, the contest began. The commander of the British cruiser being
dressed in the livery of the king, and evidently deeming discretion the better part of
valor, sought to screen his plumage from the Yankee sharp-shooters by standing within
the gangway, giving his commands from that quarter, seldom exposing his person. This
being perceived by Captain Egery he called Shockley, a minute man, ordered
him to present him with his card when next he should pop out. He did so and the
commander fell, receiving the shot in the head. The enemy soon struck their colors.
One of the facetious Yankees said the Success had but one carriage gun, a swivel, which,
having lost its trunnions, was then loaded, lashed to a timber head, and when chance
brought it in range, fired, but proving yet loyal to the king, it kicked out of the traces
and went overboard at first fire. The prisoners were soon disarmed and the Success,
with her two prizes, was at anchor before 'meeting time.'

" The prisoners were sent ashore to the lock-up and the wounded to the old surgeon,
Dr. Perry. The wounded ofiicer, a lieutenant, took his mishap philosophically, saying
his kin had been characterized as a thick-skulled family, and the truth of it had been
exemplified in his case. He had received a buckshot directly in front, on the retreating
line of his forehead, which, piercing to the bone, slid on its surface, cutting the scalp in
its course, and was found flat, thin and sharp on the back of his head.

" This startling incident produced an immense sensation, and it was unoubtedly true,
so stated by a rather irreverent Fairhavener, that the devotions of the Friends on that
' first day ' was not all in calm silence. This bold stroke seriously alarmed the people of
New Bedford, who had much of their commerce afloat in the port, while the British
sloop-of-war. Falcon, Captain Linzee, then lying in Tarpaulin Cove, twenty miles ofl", pos-

72 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

sessed the power of retaliation for the loss o£ his officers and crew. Acting on the im-
pulse of this feeling a strong delegation from ' men of peace ' came early Monday morn-
ing from New Bedford to Fairhaven, and in the house of Esquire Williams, in conven-
tion resolved to return the men and captured property to Captain Linzee with a proper
and suitable apology. The captains, having early notice of the current feehng of the
convention, ordered Captain Glig to beat to arms, then hastily dividing and distributing
the spoils of victory among themselves. Captain Egery marched off with fifteen prisoners
to Taunton. This number, with the three or four wounded left behind, composed the offi-
cers, marines, fighting men, those who were emphatically the servants of King George.
There were six or eight others, sailors, who, being deemed more cosmopolitan, were
allowed to go. Captain Egery, leaving his prisoners in Taunton jail, reported to the
Provincial Congress in Watertown, then in session. The jiffair occasioned much em-
barrassment, for the same fear that had developed in New Bedford was felt by the au-
thorities, for really at that time a state of war could hardly be said to exist.

" At New Bedford a large majority of its influential citizens were of the Society of
Friends, by principle and profession non-combatant, and as they had large commercial
interests afloat and exposed, it was quite natural that this outcropping of belligerent pa-
triotism with their neighbors across the harbor should excite in them, as it did, an earn-
est feeling of repression. A demonstration of this feeling at once gave rise to, and
fostered passes of, taunt and recrimination, which soon ran to terms void of pleasing
euphony, and under this popular impulse a wag of the period delivered himself of a
specimen in the following doggerel:

" ' It was a goodly town, and busy with the hum of thrift.
Deep laden barques were coming and departing;
The townsmen were men of peace — meek and sleek,
With fair round bodies cased in drab.
Their brows were broadly shadowed from the sun ;
Their speech was bland, and on their
Consciences written — non-resistance.
Another town there was, a little town across the stream ;
Poverty stricken, and to which its fat neighbors gave
A sobriquet of unmentionable euphony ;
It possessed no richly freighted argosies.
And could only boast of here and there a shallop
In the mud. Its men were men of peace, but
Jealous of their rights — strong in faith;
Trusting in God, yet kept their powder dry.'

" Of the sloop-of-war Falcon and Captain Linzee it may be said that the object of the
visit of his vessel to Vineyard Sound was to seize cattle and sheep upon the Vineyard,
and in captured vessels to send them to General Gage, in Boston. We next find the
Falcon before Bunker Hill on the 17th of June, her commander, Linzee, the loyal op-
ponent of the patriot Prescott, commander of the trenches. Two generations later we
find the descendants of those gentlemen in a more peaceful relation, the marriage of
the grand- daughter of Captain Linzee with the grandson of the hero of Bunker Hill ;
and there may be seen the two swords of the once opposing commanders, now crossed
in unity upon the library wall of the historian Prescott at Boston."

BEGINNING OF THE WAR. 73

This naval exploit finds recognition in the best of historic author-
ities. '

Thrilling events followed each other in rapid succession during the
year 1775. The clash of arms at Lexington and Concord in April,
and the first naval battle in Buzzard's Bay in May, were followed in June
by the battle of Bunker Hill. By the ist of June General Ward had
under his command a force of about 16,000 men. This was the army
that participated in, and to whom belonged, the glory and honor of
this famous struggle. Dartmouth was represented in this struggle by
at least two full companies in the Bunker Hill army, both attached to
the Eighteenth Regiment of foot, Colonel Danielson, in Roxbury camp,
that section being under the command of General Thomas. It is pos-
sible that Captain Pope's company also is entitled to this honor, but no
record has been found as yet to justify the claim. Dr. Edward Strong,
in the office of the Secretary of State, Boston, is authority for the state-
ment that every man identified with this army is entitled to a place on
the most distinguished roil of honor of tiie American Revolution.
Though only, about 1,500 men were immediately engaged at Breed's
Hill, all were on duty that eventful day. The following are copies of
the names in the pay rolls of companies under command of Captains
Kempton and Egery, the former in the possession of John K Cusliing
and the latter in the possession of the State. The enlistments were
made in May and were for three months' service :

"A muster roll of the company under the command of Captain Thomas Kempton, in
Colonel Danielson's regiment, to the first of August, 1775: Captain, Thomas Kempton;
first heutenant, Amasa Soper; second lieutenant, John Chadwick ; sergeants, .John

1 The following is an extract from an article on the " Naval History of the American Revolution,"
by Edward E. Hale, D.D., published in the " Narrative and Critical History of America," by Jus-
tin Winsor : " The battles of the revolution were fought on the sea as often as on the land and to
as much purpose. * * * So soon as the outbreak of hostilities began to disturb the natural
course of their commerce, the seamen of the New England coast took up the business of cruising
against their enemies, as if it were quite normal and something to which they had been born and
trained. » » • • * a people thus bred to the sea and able to assertUhemselves upon it lost no
time when they found themselves at war with England in carrying their war upon the element to
which they were born. They won their first naval victory over England on the 5th of May, 1775,
scarcely a fortnight after the battle of Lexington. The Falcon, a British sloop of war, had, under
some pretence, seized one or more prizes from the people of Buzzard's Bay. Inspired probably by
the success at Lexington and Concord, the people of New Bedford and Dartmouth fittedout a ves-
sel with which they attacked and cut out onejof the Falcon's prizes, with fifteen prisoners, from a
harbor in Martha's Vineyard. On the 12th of June the people of Machias, in Maine, seized the
Margaretta, the King's sloop, and two other vessels."
10

74 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Swift, George Brownell, Thomas West, John SulHngs ; corporals, James Spooner,
Roliert Grossman, Ehjah Allen, Paul Weston ; fifer, Obed Cushman ; drummer, Simeon
Fuller ; privates, Benjamin Adamg, Eleazar Allen, Joshua Austin, David Badcock,
Noah Ball, Jazeb Bennet, Thomas Bennet, Jonathan Bradshaw,Prince Brownell, Gam-
aliel Bryant, Jessey Burt, John Coggeshall. William Counts, Robert Grossman, jr., Louis
De Moranville, Thomas Eskridge, John Gammons, Phineas Hammond, Roger Ham-
mond, George Haskins, David Hathaway, John Hathaway, Lemuel Hathaway, Silas
Kirby, David Lewis, Preserved Merrihew, Jacob Mott, John Ormsby, Peter Phillips,
Daniel Sherman, Lemuel Sherman, John Spooner, Joseph Trafl'ord, Nathan Waste,
David Kentch, Robert Knowlton, Humphrey jMaccumber, Jonathan Mosher, Isaac
Noble, Silas Perry, Peter Sand, John Sherman, John Solomon (Indian), Giles Tallman,
Lettice Washburn."

Of these, David Lewis was from Rhode Island, Phineas Hammond
from Rochester, and Lewis De Moranville from Freetown. On this
pay roll Mrs. Hannah Hathaway, widow, is credited with the enlist-
ment of Peter Sand.

In the pay roll of the following company from Fairhaven the officers
are not designated :

" A muster roll of the company under the command of Captain Daniel Egery, in
Colonel Danielson's regiment, to the first of August, 177.T : Daniel Egery, John Pickens,
Avery Parker, Thomas Marshall, Pardon Taber, Joshua Loring, Walker Cathel, Seth
Tobev, Isaac Annable, Thomas Tobey, Jacob Pope, Joshua Randall, Ephraini Drew,
Thomas Anderson, Ansil Blossom, Ephraim Briggs, Gideon Bennet, Isaac Barrows,
Henry Camil, Neil Cushman, Simeon Clark, John Cowing, Lemuel Cu.<hman, Josiah
Damon, John Eastland, Benjamin Ellis, Ephraim Frost, Ezra Geurnsey, Samuel Gibson,
Richard Hammond, Isaac Hathaway, Nathaniel Hammond, John Hich, Jonathan Hast-
ings, Abel House, Joseph Hinckley, Abisha Jenney, Ebenezer Jeune, Edward Jenner,
Daniel Kemptou, David Kirby, William Mingo, John Nancarrow, Seth Pope, Thaddeus
Parker, Thomas Peckham, Jacob Penney, James Pratt, Benjamin Rotch, Samuel Sher-
man, Noah Stoddard, Jeremiah Stoddard, Andrew Southward, Peter Sarsfield, John
Skin: David Todd, Samuel Tupper, William Tab'er, Joseph Tower."

Let us now present an outline of the events leading up to the conflict.
On the 1 2th of June General Gage issued his insulting proclamation
declaring martial law and stigmatizing those in arms as rebels and par-
ricides of the constitution. He offered free pardon to all who would re-
turn to their allegiance, excepting John Hancock and Samuel Adams.
These he declared outlaws and offered a reward for their capture. The
issue of this manifesto only resulted in increasing the hatred of the
Americans and in strengthening their patriotism. The inhabitants of
Boston were held under strictest surveillance by the British. All com-

BUNKER HILL. 75

rminication with the country was cut off, and none were allowed to
leave the city without permission. Even the women and children were
included in this order, and were held as hostages for the good behavior
of the patriots. This action brought great distress and suffering, for
their regular supply of provisions was cut off, and many of the families
were separated from their husbands and brothers on whom they de-
pended for support. The situation was a serious one. The Provincial
Congress had invested the Committee of Safety, whose headquarters
were at Cambridge, with full power to act as circumstances might dic-
tate. It came to their knowledge that General Gage had set the i8th
of June as the date for taking possession of Bunker Hill and Dorchester
Heights.

On the evening of the i6th Colonel Prescott received orders from
the Committee of Safety to fortify Bunker Hill, and with 1,000 men and
a company of artillery he marched to Charlestown Neck. It was de-
cided to build the fortifications on Breed's Hill and to throw up breastworks
on Bunker Hill to cover retreat, if found necessary, across the Neck. All
night they labored with pickaxe and shovel, and when the morning of the
17th dawned the British found to their astonishment that the Yankees
had full possession of this strategic position. The city of Boston was
soon in wild frenzy ; what with the hasty marching of troops, the rum-
ble of artillery, the clanging of bells, the hasty council of war called by
General Gage, there was a condition of affairs little dreamed of by loy-
alist or patriot.

The Tories, who had formed a military company and offered their
services to General Gage, found themselves in a most uncomfortable
position. It is said that many who had been lukewarm suddenly ex-
hibited decided sympathy with the American cause. The audacity and
pluck of the Continentals were as bold and fearless as they were sur-
prising.

At noonday the British army, composed of from four to five thou-
sand well-disciplined soldiers, thoroughly equipped, under experienced
officers, landed at Morton's Point, and, aided by the squadron of war ves-
sels, made their attack on the entrenchments. To add terror to the
scene that followed, Charlestown was set on fire, and four hundred build-
ings were burned to the ground. On that bright June afternoon, mid

76 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

shot and shell and burning town, the battle of Bunker Hill was fought
and lost. The loss of the American army was four hundred and fifty
killed and wounded, while the British lost, according to the best author-
ities, one thousand five hundred. " The battle was lost to the Ameri-
cans," but " the physical defeat was a moral victory." The colonies
took inspiration from the events that led to final triumph. Washing-
ton arrived in Cambridge in July and took full command of the army,
and the loosely-organized and widely-scattered band of patriots was
soon transformed into a compact body of fighting men.

In the collection of documents that belonged to Captain Thomas
Kempton, and which are now in the possession of John K. Cushing,
many interesting facts are to be found. Among them is a record that
contains the monthly payments to the officers and privates of Captain
Kempton's company, as made up to December 22, 1775 : " Captain
£6, first lieutenant £^, second Heutenant ^^3, surgeons £2 8s., corpo-
rals £2 4s., drummer and fife £2 4s., privates £2." It is a fair conclu-
sion that the Continental army was paid at the same rates.

The following letters will explain themselves :

" Cozen Lemuel:

" These lines may inform you that we are all well at present through the goodness of
God and hope you are. So I have sent a man to take your berth, and you may let him
take your blanket and bed sak and your catrig box and the rest of your things you
must bring home."

"Captain Thomas Kimton, Sir:

" Please to pay James Cook eight dollars per month from the time he takes Lemuel
Sherman's berth till the time Lemuel inlisted for. Reduct out what I have let him
James Cook have in the letter above, and when he brings them home I will pay him
for them at the price you let them all, and in so doing you will much oblige.

" Yours to serve, Elihu Sher.man."

" RoxBURY Camp, December 31st, 1775.
" Then received of Thos. Kimpton the sum of six pounds six shillings and ten pence
lawful money, it being in fool for my service in Lemuel Sherman's Room for 2 months
and twenty days. James Cook.''

Here is a little book of twelve pages. On the front cover is written
in a good, legible hand : " December 2d, 1775. Jesse Bush — his hand.
Jesse Bush's Accounts, Roxbury, 1775." On the back cover is the
following:

^-^L-^^^1..

INTERESTING DOCUMENTS. 77

" Jesse Bush, his Book,
God give him grace there in to look.
Not to look, but understand,
That Learning is Better than house or land ;
For when house and land is gone and spent
Learning is most Excellent.
Since I steal not this Book for fear of Shame,
For up a Loft is the oner's name.
And so for the General Orders head Quarters,
Camebridge made Counter same."

Within is a list of articles " Bought in the Continental Armey at
Roxbury Camp in the year of our Lord, 1775. Shoes, Shirts, Hanker-
chif, Hat, Briches, Stockings, Nee Buckles, Gaiters, Cap, Jack Knif,
ribin, trousers," the price for each carried out and the total £a, — 06s.
— 05d.

One page is devoted to the record of money evidently loaned to his
comrades in arms. " Silus Kirby is. — 2d. Isaac Noble 6s. — 4d. David
Lewis 7d. Thomas Exkridge ;^i — 14s."

Here is a petition for wood to one of the selectmen, dated 1775,
suggestive of the privation and suffering incident to the times :

" I am again out of wood and my family sick, and must desire you to let me have a
load to-morrow at all events, which I think is the last time I shall ask you for any
wood. Lemuel Wi

And still another that tells its own tale of woe :

" To the Selectmen of the Town of Dartmouth :

•'Gentlemen — We, your petitioners, being a number of the Inhabitants of Bedford,
beg leave to make application to you in a business that is of the greatest importance to
every one of us, that is by the precaution that has been this day taken to cut off all in-
tercourse from Bedford and the country, and for other reasons, we are but too well sat-
isfied that the inhabitants there are determined generally to innooulate for the small
pox unless timely prevented by the interposition of your authority. We think it quite
needful to point out to your good judgement the very bad consequences to the inhabit-
ants of this Town in General if that practice is suflfered to go on in Bedford, as they
must on reflexion immediately appear to your view.

"Our own situation (being shut up in Dr. Perry's hospital) makes us extremely uneasy
for our famihes'in Bedford, and urges us most earnestly to petition your honours to
make immediate inquiry into the grounds of this information and to use your authority
to suppress a plan big with so many evils, and your petitioners will forever pray. Thomas
Tripp, George Claghorn, Samuel Thrasher, Daniel Smith, John Wanlon, Joshua Doune,
Manasseh Kempton, Thomas Whitridge, Anthony Wilbour, Jabez Hammond, Thomas

78 HISIORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Ingrahara, Gideon ," and four or five others, whose names have been torn from

the paper.

" August 9, 1775. An account of the things received out of the province hou.se of
General Thomas : 1 pair shoes for Giles Tallman ; 1 shirt and 1 pair stockings for David
Lewis ; 1 shirt for Jonathan Mosher : 1 pair breeches and 1 pair of shoes for Humphrey
Maccumber; 1 pair breeches and 1 ])air of shoes for Gobes Bennit ; 1 pair breeches for
John Youmans."

At the very beginning of the war the patriotic spirit of the inhabitants
of Dartmouth was thoroughly aroused. July i8, 1774, a town meeting
was held to decide what steps should be taken in regard to certain op-
pressive restrictions enacted by the British government. The warrant
stated that the majority of the inhabitants were confident that in order
to maintain their liberty and freedom some positive action should be
taken by the town.

Agreeable to the said warrant a town meeting was held on the above-
mentioned date, and the Hon. Walter Spooner, esq., chosen moderator:

" Voted to act on this warrant for calling this meeting.

" Voted that the Honorable Walter Spooner, Esq., Benjamin Aiken, Esq., William
Davis, William Tallman, Maj. Ebeaezer Willis, Jirah Willis, Seth Pope, Seth Hathaway
and Hannaniah Cornish, be a committee to prepare and draw up v\-hat they .shall think
most proper relating to said warrant and make report to this meeting for the towns con-
sideration as soon as they conveniently can. Voted to adjourn to three of the clock
this afternoon.

'■July 18th, three o'clock afternoon. The town meeting according to the adjourn-
ment, the above committee agreeable to order made the following report which was
voted by the town.

" Voted that we are Grieved being necessitated to act a part which at first appears
unfriendly with respect to our manufacturing brethren and friends in Great Britain and
Ireland. But we trust we shall readily be excused by them when they consider that
this part of our conduct is wholly designed and in our judgment will have the greatest
tendency of anything in our power to save both them and us from Bondage and Slav-
ery. For upon mature consideration we judge the several late unconstitutional acts of
the British Parliament have a direct tendency to destroy the harmony which has sub-
sisted among all the British subjects and to entirely abolish the English constitution and
form of Government, and therefore as the most probable means to prevent those De-
structive purposes, we unite with our American Brethren and Resolve that we will not
purchase any goods manufactured in Great Britain and Ireland which shall be imported
from thence after this day ; that we will not purchase any English goods of any hawker
or pedler, that we will not purchase any foreign teas whatever, that we will not ex-
port any flaxseed to any foreign market, that we do acquiesce in the need and necessity
of raising our proportion of moiney to pay the Congress and to raise the sum by sub-

COMMITTEES APPOINTED. 79

soription, and that these resolves do remain in force so long as the present grievous
acts of the British Parliament remain unrepealed, or until this town shall see fit to alter
the said resolves, and that the town clerk transcribe a copy ot these proceedings to the
coramittee of correspondence this day chosen for publication.

" Also voted that Benjamin Akin, Esq., Messrs. Jirah Willis, William Davis, William
Tiillman, Seth Pope, Hannaniah Cornish, Jirah Swift, Jr., be a committee of corres-
pondence with the other committees of correspondence in America.

" Attest Benjamin Russell, Town clerk.

" N. B. Immediately after the above resolves were passed the towns proportion of
the money to pay the committee of Congress was advanced."

At a subsequent meeting Benjamin Akin, William Davis, and Will-
iam Tallman were selected as a committee to attend the County Con-
gress to be held at Taunton, September 28, 1774, and it was voted "that
said Delegates be Impowered only to advise and consult upon such meas-
ures as the magistrate of the county Congress shall judge expedient, and
make report to said town as soon as convenient."

At a town meeting held January 7, 1775, it was voted that a com-
mittee of twenty-one persons be chosen agreeable to the advice of the
Congress held at Taunton. The following is a list of those composing
this committee : " Benjamin Akin, Capt. Philip Taber, Samuel Perry,
James Akin, Nathaniel Richmond, Richard Kerby, George Brownell,
Fortinatus Sherman, Seth Pope, John Perkins, John Smith 3d, Thomas
Crandon, Gamaliel Brient, Abraham Smith, John Chase, Griffith Bar-
ney, John Alden, Daniel Eggey, Nathan Delino, William Wood 2d,
and Philip Sherman."

It was voted that this committee "be continued in said service until
the acts or parts of acts mentioned in the Continental Congress Associ-
ation Agreement be repealed." A committee was also appointed to
"receive all the donations for the poor of Boston and Charlestown now
suffering by reason of the Boston Port Bill, so-called, that may be
offered by the inhabitants of this town, make remittance as soon as may
be to the overseer of the poor of Boston."

HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

CHAPTER VI.

REVOLUTIONARY HISTORY CONTINUED.

A Celebrated Cipher Letter — Rev. Dr. Samuel West deciphers it — A Modern
Document — Captain Kempton and His Kindness — Many Quaint and Interesting
Documents — Rolls of Dartmouth Soldiers — Location of Whipping Posts — Price of
Provisions, etc.

WHEN Washington's headquarters of the armj' were at Cambridge,
in 1775, the movements of tlie troops and much of the secret
action of the Provincial Congress were known by the English admiral,
whose headquarters were at Newport. How this news was obtained
was for some time a mystery. Its solution was accomplished by one of
our distinguished citizens, the Rev. Dr. Samuel West, to whom allusion
has already been made.

Ainong the officers belonging to General Washington's staff was one
named Church, who lived at Cambridge. His mistress had a brother
in Newport ; and, proposing to make him a visit, she was entrusted with
a sealed letter by this officer, with instructions to deliver it to the Eng-
lish admiral, who, it seems, was expected to arrive there with the Eng-
lish fleet. Her visit was concluded before his arrival, and she gave the
letter to her brother to deliver. Suspicious that something was wrong
about it, he spent a sleepless night, and the next morning went to his
neighbor, a Quaker, celebrated for his good judgment and counsel.
Frankly stating the affair to him lie asked his advice. "Thee knows,"
said the Friend, "that I have nothing to do with this war, but if thee
wants advice I can give it to thee. I advise thee to take it to the gov-
ernor; he can open it and if nothing wrong is found in it, it can be sent
to its destination." Acting on this suggestion he himself took it to
Boston. The governor opened it but could not read it, neither could
his secretary, for the letter was written in cipher. The brother was
then sent with an escort to Cambridge, where he delivered the mis-
terious epistle to Washington. He also was unable to read it. A
Frenchman in the camp suggested that there was a chaplain at Dor-

A TREASOiXABLE LETTER. 8i

Chester who could decipher such writing. This proved to be Dr. Sam-
uel West, of Acushnet, then pastor of the Congregational Church of that
village. Washington sent the letter to him, and all night long Dr. West
worked upon it. Captain Kempton, with his company of Dartmouth
soldiers, was on guard duty that night about Dr. West's quarters, and
saw him through the half- opened door, busy at his task. He was at
last successful in deciphering the letter, the contents of which proved to
be of the most treacherous character. Tradition says that the letter
was then given to a clergyman belonging in Northampton, with the
same results, the two versions being alike, with the difference of some
grammatical errors of no great importance. " I am not responsible for
Church's bad grammar," was the reply made by Dr. West, when told
the circumstances. Church was arrested and placed in confinement
during the war.

This was the story as told by Rev. Addison Woodward, an elderly
clergyman of New Bedford, who said that he received it many j'ears
ago from the lips of Thomas Kempton, son of Captain Kempton.

A few weeks after this interview with Mr. Woodward, a similar ac-
count was received from Jireh Swift, jr., whose father, Jireh Swift,
was a Revolutionary soldier. In reply to the question if he had ever
heard the story related above regarding Dr. West, he answered that his
father told the same incidents, the similarity of the traditions from two
separate and distinct sources being of a very striking character. The
following is the translation of the cipher letter:

" I hope this will reach you. Three attempts have I made without success in eflect-
ing. In the last the man was discovered in attempting his escape ; but fortunately my
letter was sewed in the waist iDand of his breeches. He was confined for a few days,
during which you may guess my feelings, but a little art and a Httle money settled the
matter. It is a month since my return from Philadelphia. I went by the way of
Providence to visit my mother. The committee for warlike stores made me a formal
tender of 12 cannon, 18 and 24 pounds, they liaving taken a previous resolution to make
the oflfer to Gen. Ward. To make a merit of ray services, I sent them down ; and
when they received them they sent them to Stoughton to be out of dangei', even though
they had formed the resolution as before hinted of fortifying Bunker's hill which,
together with the cowardice of Clumsy Gerrish and Col. Scammon was the lucky
occasion of their defeat. The affair happened before my return from Philadelphia.
We lost 165 killed there and since dead of their wounds; 120 more lie wounded ; they
will chiefly recover. They boast that you have 1,400 killed and wounded in the action.

82 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

You say the rebles loft 1,500 ; I suppose with equal truth. The people of Connecticut
are raving in the cause of liberty. A number of their colony from the town of Stam-
ford, robbed the King's stores near New York, with some small assistance which the
New Yorkers lent them. These were growing turbulent ; I counted 280 pieces of can-
non, from 13 to 24 pounders, at King's-bridge, which the committee has secured for the
use of the Colonies. The Jerseys are not a whit behind Connecticut in zeal. The Phil-
adelphians exceed them lioth ; I saw 2,000 men reviewed there by Gen. Lee, consisting
of Quakers, and other inhabitants in uniform, with 1,000 riflemen and 40 horses, who
together, made a most warlike appearance. I mingled freely and frequently with the
members of the Continental Congress ; they were united and determined in opposition,
and appeared assured of success. Now to come home, the opposition is become formid-
able. Eighteen thou.sand brave and determined men with Washington and Lee at their
head are no conteniptable enemy. Adjutant-General Gates is indefatigable in arraying
the army. Provisions are very plentiful ; cloaths are manufactured in almost every
town for the soldiers. Twenty tons of gunpowder have lately arrived at Philadelphia,
Connecticut and Providence; and upwards of 20 tons are now in camp. Saltpetre is
made in every colony. Powder-mills have been erected and are consequently employed
at Philadelphia and New York. Volunteers of the first fortunes daily flock to the
camp. One thousand riflemen will arrive in town in a few days. Recruits are now
levying to augment the army to 22,000 men; besides 10,000 militia of this government
are appointed to appear on the first summons.

The bills of all the colonies (probably those issued by the Congress) circulate freely,
and are readily exchanged for cash. Add to this unless some plan of accommodation
takes place immediately their harbours will swarm with privateers. An army will be
raised in the middle colonies to take possession of Canada. For the sake of the miser-
able convulsed empire, solicit peace, repeal the acts or Britain is undone.

This advice is the result of a warm affection for my King and realm. Remember I
never deceived you. Every article here sent you is sacredly true. The papers will ac-
quaint you that I am a member again for Boston. You will there see our motley Coun-
cil. A general arraingement of olScers will take place, except the chief, which will be
suspended but for a little while, to see what part Britain takes in consequence of the
late Continental Tetition. A view to independence appears to be more and more gen-
eral. Should Britain declare war against the Colonies they would be lost forever;
Should Spam declare war against England the Colonies would declare a neutrality,
which would doubtless produce a league oflersive and defensive between them. For
God's Sake prevent it by a .speedy accommodation !

AVriting this has employed me for a day. I have been to Salem to reconnoitre, but
could not escape tht Oeese in the Capital. To-morrow I set out for Newport purposely
to send this. I write you fully, it being scarcely practicable to prevent discovery. I
am out of my place here by choice and therefore out of pay ; and am determined to be
so, unless something be off"ered in my way.

I wish you would contrive to write to me largely in cyphers, by way of Newport,
adressed to Tom Richards, Merchant, inclosed under cover to me, intimating that I am a
perfect stranger to you; but that being recommended to you as a gentleman of honor,

DR. SAMUEL WEST. 83

you took the liberty to inclose it entreating me to deliver it as directed to the person liv-
ing, as you are informed, in Cambridge. Sign some fictitious name and send it to some
confident friend in Newport, to be delivered to me at Watertown. Make use of every
precaution or I perish."

In a sketch of the life and character of the Rev. Dr. Samuel West,
published in 1808, by Rev. John Allen of Duxboro', who was a student
in theology with Dr. West, the following paragraph is found which
will explain Dr. West's relation to this remarkable event:

" In the latter stages of life he is said to have applied himself to chemistry, in which
it is testified by adepts that he v?as a distinguished proficient. The year 1775 awakened
his attention to politics, and he became a Whig partisan, writing many forcible pieces
in the newspaper.?, which animated the confident and revived the spirits of the timid
for the important contest. These speculations gratified his friends, and were highly ap-
plauded by the public. He also brought himself into a considerable degree of notice Ijy
deciphering Dr. Church's letter, which was written at the commencement of the Revo-
lutionary war and exposed to a relation — who had joined the party of the enemy — the
particular state of the army. The alarm which that letter occasioned is still remem-
bered, and it was natural for every one to inquire who the person was that madfe it in-
telligible for the public eye, and it was acknowledged by the writer that it was done
correctly."

It is a singular fact that Samuel West and Dr. Benjamin Church were
both members of the class of 1754 in Harvard. That Dr. West was one
of the distinguished men of his day is shown by the fact that he was
selected to preach a sermon before the Honorable Council and the Hon-
orable House of Representatives of the Colony of the Massachusetts
Bay in New England, May 29, 1776. His text was from Titus iii. 1,
" Put them in mind to be subjects to principalities and powers, to obey
magistrates, and to be ready to do every good work." The sermon is
given in the "Pulpit of the American Revolution, or the Political Ser-
mons of the Period of 1776, by John Wingate Thornton, A.M."

Captain Kempton, in whose company we are specially interested,
possessed a kind, accommodating spirit, which is revealed on nearly
every page of the camp books. It seems as if every soldier looked to
him, not only for his regular supplies, but for every need, real or imagin-
ary. So we find a record of money advanced and clothing furnished.
From the varied character of articles supplied we infer that Captain
Kempton possessed the characteristics of the Quaker who was contin-
ually called upon by a neighbor for the loan of tools and implements

84 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

about his farm. One daj' he returned the wheelbarrow with the remark,
" Here's your blamed old wheelbarrer ; it's broke!" " Well," blandly
remarked the Quaker. " Well," says the neighbor, " I want yer to
have it mended ; I want to borrow it again this arternoon ! " Gazing
serenely at him for a moment, the Quaker replied, " It shall be repaired;
I will send it to thee."

Lieutenant Soper seemed to require frequent accommodations, most
likely on account of the liberal patronage bestowed on the sutler.

" October 18, 1775, Lent him [Soper] 6 shillings.
£2, lOs.^ 6d.
Paid the clarke 12s. for Soper for his horse to ride to Denham."

The lieutenant occasionally furnished money for his family, for the
captain passed over to his son " one month's pay of his for son, ^i, 17s.
4d." \\'ithout doubt, Soper was a good soldier and a jolly fellow, for
we find him commanding a company in 1776. John Sullings was short
of funds in October, so the captain loaned him £\, for which he took
his note. November 25, 177S, John Solomon paid his "loan in phool,"
7s. 6d. Many other accounts of like character are on record, but enough
have been mentioned to illustrate the military banking business of the
period. In May, 1775, Captain Kempton's company was supplied with
" cartouch boxes," and the account gives the list of names. Each man
is charged 3s. 4.

The soldiers were well supplied with milk in August, 1775, for a con-
siderable "quonti" is recorded as being received on September 2.

" Reed, at Barestones, 75 qts., 10s. low money.
'• '■ Mr. Coburns, 179 " £1, 4s.
•' " Mr. Clarks, 208 " £1, 7s, 8d."

August 17, 1,274 feet of "white pein clabbords " at 40s. per
thousand were received from Jonathan Hart Howard. August 18,
Jacob Mott bought 3^ yards of " clorth," for which he paid £},, 3s.
October 12, 1775, "Preserved Merrihew, Roger Hammond, Silas Cidreg,
Jonathan Moshar, Jacob Mott, John Spooner, Obed Cushman, Isaac
Noble, John Coggeshall, Jonathan Bradshaw, receipted for their blanket
money — 12s. low money pr man."

The following charges were also made :

" John Spooner, 1 pare Sheepskin Breeches, l-ts. ; Isaac Xoble, 1 pare Sheepskin
Breeches, 13s. ; Silus Derrey, 1 pare Dearskin, 14s. ; Sergeant John Swift, 1 pair Sheep-

/ \

rrn^y

PAYROLLS AND RECEIPTS. 85

skin Breeches, and Capt. Kempton treated himself to the same, both charged in one
item, £1, 8s.; John Cog<reshall, 1 Pair Sheepskin Breeches, 14s.; James Spooner, 1
Pair Sheepskin Breeches, 14s.; Jonathan Mosher, 1 Pair Sheepskin Breeches, 14s."

In the Pope manuscripts is found a pay-roll that bears the date Sep-
tember 5, 1775. This appears to have been for an expedition from
Dartmouth to the Elizabeth Islands. Most likely this was another at-
tempt to capture some of the enemy's vessels or barges cruising about
the Vineyard. The company was largely composed of seafaring men
of Fairhaven village. The roster is as follows :

" Captain, Nathaniel Pope ; first lieutenant, Edmund Pope; second lieutenant, Elisha
Parker; sergeants, Eleazer Hathaway, James Jenne, William Spooner; drummer, Ben-
jamin Spooner; privates, Seth Grant, John , Hervey Cushman, Jonathan Jenne,

Philip Wing, Aaron Parker, Gideon Delano, Joseph Shocldey, William West, Nathaniel
Church, Timothy Jenne, Jonathan Cushman, Benjamin Spooner, Jr., Elisha Hammond,
Barnabas Hammond, George Shockley, Joseph Langdon, John ."

Mrs. Roland Fish, the granddaughter of Capt. Nathaniel Pope, gave
some interesting facts concerning her grandfather. He was in com-
mand of a merchant vessel in the earliest period of the war, and with
his mate was taken prisoner and confined on board the prison-ship
Belvidere at New York. After a brief confinement he was selected for
e.xchange and was given five minutes in which to get ready to leave the
ship. He pleaded with the officers in behalf of his mate, whose wife was
very sick at home, and was successful in securing his release. He then
demanded his watch which was taken from him when he entered on his
imprisonment. Both departed on their journey homeward, with happy
hearts. This watch is now in the possession of his nephew, Nathaniel
Pope, of New York city. The sword of the English officer, captured
at the first naval battle, is now owned by Mr. Henry D. Pope, of
Boston.

The red letter year of the American nation, 1776, is now reached, and
in the camp books the diligence and patriotism of Dartmouth are mani-
fest. The following receipts for money incident to the first clash of
arms is of interest :

" Reed of Thos. Kempton fifteen shillings & two pence, itt Being my fool Demand
upon him for my travel & Time of Service Larst April att The Lexington Alarum.

John Swift."
" Dartmo', April 16th, 1776.

86 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

" Dartmo', April ye 10, 1776.
" Received of Thos. Kempton the Whole of My Wages Due for my Service for the pro-
vincial and continal service, and Likevrise for my Travel and Time of Service att the
Lexington Alarum. Reed pr. mee, Simeon Fuller."

" Dartrao', April ye 10th, 177G.
" Received of Thos. Kempton Twenty Eight shillings & ten pence on half penney, itt
Being in fool formyself and my brother Ezra Winslow for our Travel and Time of serv-
ice att the Lexington Alarum in April, 177.5.

" Received by me, Job Win?low."

March 13, 1776, another Dartmouth company of soldiers went into
camp at Winter Hill, forming part of Colonel French's regiment, Briga-
dier-General Sullivan's brigade:

"Captain, Benjamin Dillingham; first lieutenant, Amasa Soper; second lieutenant,
Avery Parker; privates, Eleazar Hathaway, James Spooner, Ishmael Tripp, Jonathan
Cushman. John Skiif, Job Tripp, Stephen Martin, Jeremiah Stoddard, Thomas Crandon,
Nicolo Stoddard, Samuel Shookley, Thomas Tripp, Ruben Hathaway, Gardner Spooner,
Ruben Hathaway, John Humphrey, Michael Mosher, Devenpt. Brightman, Prince
Tobey, Joseph Whitefield, William Kempton, Thomas Thomson, NoahTobey, Nathaniel
Ingraham, Benjamin Obediah, Thomas Personlou, David Hathaway, Barzilla Merick,
Joseph Francis, Nathan Wait, David Devoal, Prunli Hall, Daniel Bennet, Elisha Parker,
David Clarke, Elkanah Mitchel, Jonathan Hathaway, Henry Wrightington, Simeon
Fuller, George GifFord, Pomp Peckham, Tisdel Read, Elnathan Jenner, George Hitch,
Robert Grossman, David Pope, David Spooner, Lemuel Cushman, Lewis Gifford, Ben-
jamin Hammond, Thomas Booth, John Hathaway, Jethro Taber, Samuel Hitch, James
Pratt, Joseph Powel, Samuel Howland, Lewis Demeranville, Araeziah Palmer, Benja-
min Willis, Silas Hathaway, Samuel Nash, William Japes, Humph'y Maceumber, Elijah
Maccumber, Samuel Sherman, Jesse Keen, Robert Piggsly, Barnabas Spley."

Acushnet has the credit of this roll of honor. This pay-roll belongs
to the collection of the Kempton papers. At the State House is found
another Dartmouth pay-roll of a company enlisted June 19, 1776:

" Officers and privates of Capt. Amasa Soper's Company in Col. Thomas Marshall's
regiment, June 19, 1776: Captain, Amasa Soper; sergeant. Freeman Taber; corporal
Nathaniel Hathaway ; drummer, Job Tripp ; privates, Thomas Phillips, Ichabod Potter,
Salathiel Handy, David Hathaway, Richard Hathaway, Elnathan Jenne, Gamaliel
Handy, William Willis, Benjamin Willis, Elnathan West, Jacob Anthony, Richard Ma-
son, Reuben Hathaway, Nathan Crossley, Elijah Joket, Cudgjo Burden, Wilham Russell."

At the State House is found another pay-roll of a company under
command of Captain Soper, dated November 17, 1776, which contains
several names not before mentioned, as follows :

MUSTER ROLLS. 87

" Captain, Amasa Soper; first lieutenant, David Snow; second lieutenant, Freeman
Taber; sergeants, Gamaliel Howard, Joshua Larance, John West, Chris. Walliut; cor-
porals, Nathaniel Hathaway, Israel Alger, Benja. Willis, G-ideon Soal; drummer. Job
Tripp; fifer, Josiah Williams; privates, Elnathan West, Ichabod Potter, Thomas Phil-
lips, Richard Hathaway, Elnathan Gennie, Gaml. Hardy, William Willis, Jacob An-
thony, Reuben Hathaway, William Russell, Nathan Crossley, Jason White, Benj. Was-
cot, Robert Piggsly, John Larance, Goanus Crapo, Blisha Zacket, Richard Mason, David
Hawley, Thaddeus Howard, Calvin Keith, John Pool, Joseph Knap, Edward Howard,
John Lathrop, Thaddeus Snell, Daniel Tolman, Josiah Williams, Carey Haywood, Enos
Whitman, Benjamin Alger, Silas French, Joseph Knap, Jr., Cyrus Tabour, Humphrey
Taber, F. Burden, Solm. Handy, Cudgjo Burden, Spencer Larance, Jonathan Porter,
Daniel Thomson, Solomon Bngly, Joseph Whillen, Noah Perre, Abisha Willis, Solomon
Willi.s, Asa Keith, William Leach."

Here is another list of Dartmouth men who enlisted in 1776 for three
years, or during the war:

"Ichabod Gilford, Cuff Whittemore, Gideon Bennit, Samuel Odel, Samuel Trip,
Joshua Austin, Gibs Tolman, Robert Wrightiugton, Salathiel Handy, Gaml. Hardy,
Jeremiah Buck, George Reed, Pleasant Hitch, David West, John Blackman, Simeon
Fuller, John Callendar, Anthony Buffom, James Wright, Manuel Cusen, Jacob Nott."

Still another roll of Dartmouth soldiers, dated December 7, 1777, is
as follows :

'■ Captain, William Hicks ; first lieutenant. Pardon Brownell ; second lieutenant,
Robert Earl ; sergeants, Elisha Potter, Silvester Brownell, George Tyson ; fifer, John
Hicks; drummer, Christopher Earl; corporal, John Sowle; privates, Jonathan Taber,
Constant Macomber, Joseph Devol, Samuel Brownell, Elick Potter, Anthony Shaw,
Abner Brownell, Thomas Brightman, Abraham Gifford, Perserance Sherman, Job Ta-
ber, Benjamin Davis, Benjamin Corey, David Hammond, Nathaniel Brownell, George
Brownell, John Tiltbur, James Manchester. William Willcox, Peleg Taber, Jonathan
Head, Arnold Wood."

Among the treasures of the Kempton papers is a little book of sixteen
pages that gives us the male population in 1777, from sixteen to sixty
years, curiously divided in three classes, Popular, Quakers, and Blacks.
It is a fair conclusion that this census gave the number of men in the
township liable to military duty. The statistics are arranged as if col-
lected by nine different persons, and are as follows:

POPULAR. QUAKERS,

Mr. Tobey 1S5 21 3

Mr. Delano, 47 5 3

Mr. Sherman, 102 31 1

Mr. Coan, 93 5 1

88 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

POPULAR. QUAKERS. BLACKS.

Mr. Tallman, 190 29 5

Capt. Sherman, 109 31 3

Thomas Smith, 103 74 7

PliiHp Shearman, 45 10 1

Jabez Barker, 74 42 6

1,008 248 30

Total 1,286. The entire population in 1776 was 6,773; in 1705 it was 4.506.
The following Dartmouth men were mustered at Taunton, July 14,
1778, for Fishkill, by James Leonard: Jethro Taber, David Spooner,
Benjamin Weston, Leonard Crowell, Peter Sand, Preserved Wilcox.

In 1779 is found an item of cash paid by several companies of militia
to a number of persons as a bounty, to engage said persons in the Con-
tinental service during the war, or for the term of three years, £\,},^(),
9s. id, as follows:

£ S. D.

Capt. Haskins' bounties, 203 17 9

Capt. Hathaway's " 338 12

Capt. Hawfse's, " 113 13 4

Capt. Taber's, " 4i>6 4

Capt. Hixe's " 71 2

Capt. Warren's '' 77

It is a fair inference from the above documents that Dartmouth was
represented in the different regiments of Massachusetts militia in 1778
and 1779 by at least six companies, and that these were largely com-
posed of the soldiers belonging to the companies that have heretofore
been given in the full muster rolls. If this conclusion be a just one,
then it is a fair inference that Dartmouth had a share in the thrilling
events that occurred at Stony Point, July 15, 1779, at West Point in
1780 (when Benedict Arnold made the treacherous attempt to surren-
der that important fortress to the enemy), and at Yorktown in 1781.

A familiar sight to the present generation is the old cannon now
planted in an upright position on the corner of Main and Center streets
in Fairhaven. It has a Revolutionary history, the details of which were
given the writer b)' the venerable Charles Eldredge, who received them
from Mrs. Emily Winsor, the granddaughter of Col. Nathaniel Pope.

On February 11, 1777, the war ship Alfred, 28 guns, under the com-
mand of Ezekiel Hopkins, sailed from Delaware Bay to cruise with a

AN OLD CANNON. 89

squadron of ships on our southern coast in order to intercept and cap-
ture English vessels. It is said that Paul Jones, the bold and saucy
privateer captain, was lieutenant of the ship at this time. The fleet
made sad havoc among the British merchantmen and performed many
daring exploits. The Alfred entered the harbor at Nassau, West In-
dies, March 2, 1777, and took General Brown, the acting governor of
the island, a prisoner. Hopkins captured a large quantity of military
stores and 100 cannon, and on March 13, thirty-four days from the
date of sailing from Delaware Bay, landed his cargo at New London.

A short time after, a number of these cannon were sent to our
harbor, mounted at Fort Phoenix, and put to the excellent service of
protecting the towns from the British cruisers. During the British in-
vasion in 1778 these guns were spiked by the enemy, trunnions knocked
off, and the guns otherwise made useless. This one, now a lone senti-
nel on Phcenix Hall corner, was secured by Capt. Nathaniel Pope, of
naval battle fame, mounted on a carriage, secured with straps of iron,
and was placed on duty again at the corner of Union and Water streets,
to protect the shore from the landing of troops. It remained there till
the Union wharf was built in 1833, and was then placed muzzle down-
ward in its present location. There it was allowed to stand till the
church was remodeled into the present Phoenix Hall, about 1846, when
it was ordered to " move on." It found a resting-place on a public lot
at the foot of Washington street, near the corner of Water, when it \\ as
again moved to the residence of Wilson Pope on Union street, a de-
scendant of Capt. Nathaniel Pope. In 18S3, through the public spirit
and generosity of Capt. Alexander Winsor, the gun was removed once
more to its old location on Phcenix Hall corner, where we trust it may
remain forever, a monument of the early days of Yankee Doodle, and a
visible reminder of the British invasion of September 5, 1778. The
Fairhaven Improvement Association in 1885 placed a brass tablet on
the old cannon that bears the following inscription :

" Taken from the British at Nassau, in 1777, by Colonial Ship of War Alfred. Placed
on Fort Phcenix in 1778. Recaptured by the British and Left on the Fort Spiked and
with Trunnions Knocked off. Afterwards Mounted on Union Street for Village Defen.-^e.
Placed in its Present Position in 188.3."

Many of the old papers contain lists of bounty money paid by the
township, with dates and amounts; but no names are recorded of the

90 HIS70RY OF NEW BEDFORD.

soldiers receiving it. This is proof that men were constantly being en-
listed to fill Dartmouth's quota, and the proof is strengthened by re-
peated records of soldiers' families who were assisted with money,
clothing, and food. A curious record is one. giving an account of the
horses purchased by the town of Dartmouth for army use. The follow-
ing verbatim copies of bills are found among the Kempton papers. The
enormous prices were due to the depreciated currency:

" Town of Dartmouth to Nathan Nye, Dr.:

" July 7, 1778. To one horse, sold to the Selectman of sd town for the use of the State
of Massachusetts Bay, £750.

" To John Smith, town treasurer. Pay to Nathan Nye the above sum of seven hun-
dred and fifty pounds, and charge the same to the town's act.

" William Davis, i r, , ,
RicnARD KiRBY, I Selectmen

" ^"g"^' 22, 1780. Thomas Kempton, / ^^^^^^^^y^y

Benjamin Russell. J

" An account of horses purchased for the Armey. Dollars. £ s. d.

1 of Stephen Taber, 1800 540

1 of Ephraim Kempton 1900 970

1 of John Nie, 200 GOO

To time spent iu purchasing said horses.
To 4 Days myself To Riding my horse 20 miles.
The above are sufficient to show the prevailing prices.
Here is an interesting account of the town of Dartmouth with Capt.
George Claghorn. It is evidently a record of drafted men who paid for
release from military duty, and a list of soldiers who received bounties
as against their names :

1779. Cash reed, of Isaac Ho wland & Son £300

William Russell l.JO

John Williams 150

'■ " Josepn Austin, 150

Seth Russell, 150

" " Jonathan Allen, 150

" " Thomas Kempton by the hand of Charles Church, GOO

£ s.
To Cash paid Jonathan Smith toward his bounty, . . . 150
To Capt. Prince Jenne, as part of his bounty, . 150

To ditto for milige, 7 4

To Cash paid Seth Jenne as part of his bounty, . . 90

To Cash paid Seath Tobey as part of his bounty, . . . 90
To Cash paid Job Tobey as part of his bounty, ... 90

To Cash paid Isaac Tompkins as part of his bounty, . . 120

^^^^ cy yz^ry<c^r

^^^^^- ^ ^

^p^zr^^'z

SOLDIERS' BILLS.

In the following bills may be seen some of the shady sides of the sol-
dier's life :
State of Massachusetts Bay to Thomas Kempton :

July 24, 1779. To supplying Paul Johnson (died), Thomas Francis, Michael Boomer
and John WiUiams, who had been prisoners at New York and were discharged and
brought to Bedford sick and incapable of travelhng home.

To 25 lbs. mutton, delivered at several times,

To 6 feet of wood

To 26 quarts of milk,

To Gideon Rowland's Bill for a Coffin for Paul Johnson,

To Mary Doubleday's Bill for nursing, hording, washing and loging

Robert Curney -15 days, at £3, 135 n

To the amount of William Tallman's Bill, 17 K)

To my time spent a taking the care of the sick and providing nuses

and other supply from the 24th of July to the 17th of August, 45

An account for supplying the families of John Sullen and Phi
Taber :

John SuUen's Family, September the 2Sth, 1779.
£

£.

s. d.

stated price,
stated price,
stated price.

To 15 lbs. of mutton at 4s. per lb.,
To one gallon mo. asses, .

To 2 lbs. sugar, at 14s. per lb., . .18
To 1 Peck Corn, ....126""
To half a Bufhel of Rye, . . . 4 10 stated price,
Philip Tuber's Family, September 23d, 1779 :

To one half Bufhel purtatoes,

To one peck corn, 12(1

To V'l\ lbs. of mutton, 2 in

Account of orders delivered to several persons by the Selectmen for
supplying soldiers' families, 1779:

Rol)erl Bennett, the 2d, for one order to supply, .... £100

William White, to supply the family John Omey, ... 811

Bartholomew Aiken, to supply the family Paul Perry,

Lemuel Pope, to supply the family John Austin,

Benjamin Blossom, to -supply the family Timothy Jenne,

Benjamin Church, to supply the family Cornelius Spooner,

Weston Talman, to supply the family Henry Wrightington,

John Chaftee. to supply the family James Bates,

Edward Thurber, to supply the family Jeremiah Exiene,

Thomas Kempton, to supply the family Samuel Tripp,

Malitiah Hathaway, to supply the family Mical Mosher,

William White, to supply the family John Omey,

200

92 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Here is a petition that will explain itself:

" Dartmouth, February the 20th, 1779.
" Sir, We the subscribers, being the marjor part of the Selectmen of sd Town, Do
tliink it not Safe for this Town nor for the Publick, that any person Should live and
Improve on the Elizabeth Islands at this present time for Divers Reasons. One is that
when the Enemy was there last there was three Refugees Left there, that is to say,
one Eldad Tupper and two more that Compeld two of Said Islanders to Carry them to
Newport, and kept them four Days and Sent them home. Therefore pray your hon-
urs to take our Deplorable Situation under Serious Consideration and Do What you
think Will be most for the Publick Service, and for further Information we Refer you
to Conl. Thomas Kempton, the Bearer.

" From your Esteemed Friends,

" Pgd. Kerby, ) Selectmen
Job Almt, V of

Benj. Russell. ) Dartmouth."
"To Brigdr. Gen. Cornell:

" N. B. There was Eight of the Inhabitants of the island on the Island at that time.
Staid all night. Carried of foreteen Sheep, nine turkeys, one jug."

Another list of men furnished the army is as follows :

" Enlistment of Soldiers 1779. — Worth Bates, David Hammond, Benajah Dunham,
Stephen Potter, William Drafs, Nathan West, Stoghton Booth, Gideon Hathaway,
Cornelius Grinnell, Obed Kempton, Isaac Hathaway, Thomas Smith, Jobe Trip, Elisha
Smith, Thurston Dotter, Jabez Hatliaway, Gideon Woodmane, Samuel Weller, Weston
Bedon, Henry Bedon."

Perhaps'the reader is already weary of these extracts from Revolution-
ary documents ; yet they seem of sufficient importance to warrant
their preservation here. They lift, to a certain degree, the veil covering
a most interesting period of our local history ; and with the light given
by a perusal of this fragmentary account, there comes a better knowledge
of the conditions and circumstances with which our fathers were envi-
roned in the early life of the nation. After a few further extracts from
the records we shall return to the events preceding the British invasion
of 177S. The following document is a novelty in its way, and illustrates
the earl)' methods of disciplining the raw recruit:

ADVERTISEMENT.

" Deserted from the Camp in Roxbury — Giles Talman and Robert Nolton, Soldiers in
C.ipt. Kempton's Company of Col. Danielson's Regiment. Said Tallman is a native of
Dartmouth in the County of Bri.stol — dark coraplexioned, well set and effects to be some-
thing of a bully, about 5 feet 10 inches high. Said Norton is of a light or rather reddish
complexion, a middling well set man about 5 feet 4 inches. They carried of with them

RE VOL UTIONAR Y DOCUMENTS.

all their Cloaths & two large Pistols & 17 cartridges belonging to another man. Whoever
will discover said deserters and secure them so that the subscribers may come at them or
will send them to him at the Camp in Roxbury shall Receive Ten Dollars reward or five
dollars for either of them.

"Roxbury Camp, Nov. Uth, 1775."

The following letter needs no explanation :

•' Watertown, Jan'y 24th, 1776.

'' Sir — It is with pleasure that I have it in my power to informe you that you are ap-
pointed a Lieut Colo, of a Regiment of Men to be raised as temporary reenforcement of
men to continue for the Space of two months or until the first day of April next (if needed
so long.) Jacob French is appointed Chief Colo. 50 men are to be raised in the County of
Bristol, the other part are raised in the County of Cumberland, the Majr of F Regiment
is appointed in the County & the Adjiteut also, the other officers time would fail me to
give you a perticuler account off. Esqr. Baylies is appointed by the Court to come into
the Town of Dartmouth in order to raise men. He will furnish you with more particu-
lar accompts. I also expect to be at home this weak and shall be glad to see you before
I return again. Tho this appointment may be unexpected, yet I hope it will not be dis-
agreeable. I wish your conduct may anser the expectations of your friends, for in
your appointment 1 have taken no small part.

" I with truth subscribe my Selfe

" Vour Friend,

" To Colo. Thos. Kempton. W. Spooner."

The regimental officers with whom Captain Kempton was associated in
his promotion, follow: Colonel Jacob French, Lieutenant- Colonel
Thomas Kempton, Major Nathaniel Jordan, Chaplain Mr. Cambel, Sur-
geon Daniel Hathaway, Mate Surgeon Nathaniel Cook, AdjutantThomas
Beny, Quartermaster Jacob French, and a list of captains : Silus Cobb,
Samuel Tubbs, Paul Elis, Winthrop Baston, Israel Now, Noah Hall,
Matthew Randol.

While some of these documents do not bear directly on the military
history of the township, they are none the less interesting and valuable as
a part of its local history. The following petition for a town meeting
reveals the early movement for the division of the township, though the
town was not divided until 1787 :

" To William Davis, Thomas Kempton, Alden Spooner, Isaac Shearman, Job Almy,
Benjamin Russell and Stephen Peokham, selectmen for the Town of Dartmouth.

" We the Subscribers, Freeholders in Sd Town do hereby request that you grant out
your Warrant for Calling the sd Town together as soon as conveniently may be to act
on the following Particular, viz., to know whether it is not the mind of said Town that

HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

it be divided into two Towns or Tliree, and if so to choose a committee to Point out the

Bounds & Petition the General Court to Establish the Same.
" Dartmouth, Jan. 9th, 1778.

" Daniel Smith, Edw. Pope,

Joseph Austin, Abraham Smith,

TJiomas Tripp, Isaac Shearman,

Patrick Huxfld, Leonard Jacobs,

Ladok Maxfeld, Lemuel Williams,

Joseph Rotch, Samuel Pope,

Lemuel Pope, Jireh Swift, Jur.,

Jethro Jenne, Jaraes Huttlestain,

Clark Hathaway, Joseph Russell, Jun."

The following valuable lists are on record in the State House, and
constitute a part of the history of the period :

"List of men raised in Dartmouth Deo. 2, 1780: Edward Stebbins, Richard Covell,
John Kuolton, Cladne DeBoire, Cornelius Spooner, Levi Caswell, James L Merill,
Thomas Johnson, John Rannolds, Prince Jenne, William Stoodly, Abner Luce, Frans-
wery Parran, Cain Abel, Seth Davol, Levi Tousant, Josiah Haskell, Nathan Claghorn,
Elkanah Hamblin, Robert Grossman, Francis Rayrose, Jesse Richmond, Elijah Blackmer,
Deliverance Bennet,' Zilbah Fuller, Moses Gardner, David Cushman.

'• Pay-roll of six months' men, October 5, 1781: Ebeuezer Chace, David Handy,
Pompey Peckham, Peter Pond, David Cushman, Martin Sekins, Eliphlet Weston, Jo-
seph Shockley, Thomas Tobey, John Tobey, Solomon Deck, Prince Almy, Ebenezer
Paine. Ezekel Tallman, Isiah Smith, Jonathan Smith.

" Dartmouth, January 12, 1782.

" WiLLiA.M Davis, 1 Selectmen
Benj. Russell, K of

" Vol. 4, page G6. Pardon Cook, \ Dartmouth.

"List of soldiers raised on December 2, 1781, from Dartmouth: Richard Covell,
James Merell, John Konnoles, Franswery Parran, Lois Tousaint, Elkannah Hamblen,
John Knolton, Thomas Johnson, William Stoodly, Seth Davel, Josiah Haskell, Nathan
Claghorn."

Here is a letter that will explain itself:

"Dart.mouth March 7th 1781.
"Sr I understand that you have gave obligation to Ebenezer Chace for 15£ in ad-
dition to his Bounty for the Servis Last Six Months in the Continental Armey. Now
I beg that you will postpone the payment of that Obligation[a littel while till Nathaniel

1 Mr Ricketson, in his History o£ New Bedford, tells the " Story of an old pensioner " who
resided in New Bedford, and died in i S36, at the age of 86 years. Mr. Ricketson says : " At the cele-
bration o£ the Fourth of July, 1835, our old friend (Deliverance Bennet] rode in an open carriage in
company with two or three old Revolutionary soldiers in the procession. His appearance on this
occasion was a very dignified one."

THE WHIPPING-POST. 95

Pope corns home which will Bee verry soon. Shiu-e he can give you Satisfaction of
the agreement Between him and Chase you may Depend on it the agreement no Doubt
Can be proved that the hire of the man muft Com out of Chace, which I can be a good
Suoumstance of Pope advanced one hundred paper Dollars which I know to be tor'ds
the additional Bounty that the Town agreed to pay, which Chace Denies ! Chase acts
the grateft viliney that can be acording to his knoledge therefore I hope you will not
settel till Pope corns home then you will have the true light of the whole afair. This
is from your humbl Servt.

" Calvin Delano."

" List of six months' men enlisted 1783 : Eliphas Weston, Martin ,

David , Thomas Tobey, Pompey Peckham, David Handy, Jonathan Smith, John

Taber, Joseph Shockley, Ebenezer Chase, Josiah Smith, Ezekal Tallman, Prince Almy,
Solomon Hioh, Ebenezer Doune, Peter Proud."

In the year 1785 there stood on the Head-of- the- River and Bellville
roads, directly in front of Humphrey Hathaway's residence, a whipping-
post that, up to that time, had been used for tlie punishment of public
offenders.

" My mother," says George H. Taber, " witnessed the last whipping
administered at this place. She, a little girl at the time, went to school
in the school-house located just east of the ' Parting ways ' (the point
of intersection of Fairhaven and Head-of-the-River roads). This
event drew a large crowd of the people, and its importance was signal-
ized by the closing of the school, so the children experienced a thrill
of joy that always comes with the unexpected suspension of school
duties. When the bystanders had grouped themselves about the whip-
ping-post they were entertained with the lashing administered to John
Black, who was punished for stealing." Tradition says tliere was an-
other whipping-post in Fairhaven, on the northwest corner of Center
and Middle streets.

The gradual depreciation of Continental money, its failure as a cir-
culating medium, and its disastrous effect on the country have been
noted. Public credit was entirejy ruined, and to restore it was the
purpose of an important convention held in Concord in 1779.

Many readers remember the days during the civil war, when one
gold dollar was worth nearly three paper dollars, and how the very
foundations of business were unsettled because of the inflated currency.
Can we comprehend the situation of affairs when one silver dollar was
worth sixty paper dollars, as shown by the following document found
among the Kempton papers :

96 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

" Bedford, July 28, 1780.
"We the Subscribers being desired by Col. Thomas Kempton to assemble & give our
candid Judgment how much a silver dollar is worth in paper money, do unanimously
agree that the medium o£ Exchange, as near as it can possibly be ascertained is $60
for one silver dollar. Witness our hands : " John Proud,

A. H. Smith,
Caleb Greene,
Zadok Maxfeld,
James Hatdon,
Moses Grinnell."

What difficulties beset these wise men in their councils when it be-
came necessary to establish an arbitrary list of prices for the very ne-
cessities of life, and that on a basis of forty paper dollars for one Span-
ish mill dollar. It is worth mentioning that the president of this im-
portant gathering was the Dartmouth delegate, Walter Spooner, esq.

The following is an abridged account of their action, taken from a small
pamphlet printed by Benjamin Edes & Sons, State street, Boston:

" Proceedings of the Convention
Begun and held in Concord on the Sixth Day of October 1779— to take in Consid-
eration the Prices of Merchandise and Country Produce and make such Regulations
and Reductions therein as the public Good require.

"The Convention then made Choice of the Honorable Walter Spooner, Esq., of
Dartmouth as President.

" There were 185 delegates from 143 towns."

The following selection is made from a long list of articles, with the
rates as established :

" Prices at the sea ports, free of charge: Indian corn and meal 4 I. 4s. per bushel;
wheat, 91. per bushel; white beans, 61. r2s. per bushel, potatoes, 24s. per bushel;
butter, 12s. per lb.; new milk cheese, 8s. per lb.; new milk, beer measure, 3s.; good
walnut wood, 221.; oak -and other woods, 201.; train oil, £90 per bbl.; blubber, 301.
per blsl.; New England rum, 41. 10s. single gallon; coffee, ISs. per lb.; brown sugar,
13s. per lb.; loaf sugar, 36s. per lb.; cotton wool, 42s. per lb.; good merchantable French
and Spanish Brandy, 71. per Gallon; Bohea tea, 61. per lb.; white pine boards, 351. per
thousand ; mackrell, per bbl. 30 1.; Menhaden, Alewives & Herring, 25 1. per bbl.; mol-
lasses, 41. 14s. per gall; West India Rum, 61. 6s. per gall; rice, 361. per C.

" Whereas, the goods and wares imported from Europe are so various in their kinds
and Qualities as to render it quite impracticable to affix the exact Price at which every
article ought to be sold and as it is necessary the Prices of those goods should be regu-
lated—The average prices by Retail of all kinds of European wares and merchandize
shall not exceed Forty Times what they were sold for in the year 1773

" A long address is made to the People of Massachusetts Bay on the theme of the
Restoration of the Public Credit &c. " Signed by Walter Spooner, President.

"Thomas Llotd Halset, Secy."

FIRST PRIVATEERING EXPLOIT.

CHAPTER VII.

PRIVATEERING IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

Characteristics and Attractions of Privateering — Tlie Extent of tliis Species of
Warfare — Dartmouth's Part in It — Beginning of the U. S. Navy — Extracts from the
Stoddard Papers — Sir Peter Partner's Fleet — Details of Spirited Contests.

THE American privateer was a child of the American Revolution.
Its existence was a cruel necessity. A monster of the sea, it
preyed upon helpless commerce and throve to fatness on its si^oils.
Brave men and good men entered its service. But privateering was a
cruel master. It caused them to commit deeds of violence ; it made the
selfish man more selfish, the brutal man more brutal ; it compelled the
man of honor to wink at dishonorable transactions ; and it forced Chris-
tian men to fight their brethren. On the other hand, privateering made
heroes, prompted men to valiant deeds, to make noble sacrifices, and
court death for love of country ; it was a strange mixture of good and
evil.

The dreadful calamities following in the footsteps of the British sol-
diery that invaded Dartmouth in 1778, were retributions visited upon
the township for her part in the havoc made upon the British commerce
by the privateers that swarmed the ocean during the Revolution. It
is important to glance backward at the principal events which charac-
terized that peculiar and effective feature of warfare.

The very first naval exploit and capture recorded in the annals of the
American Revolution was made by Dartmouth men in this harbor, May
13, 1775. Does not Dartmouth, therefore, occupy the same honored
relation in the naval struggles that Lexington does to the first clash of
arms by the land forces ? Both performed a glorious part in the dawn
of freedom.

The extensive coast line of New England naturally made its people a
maritiine race. Its forests furnished excellent timber, its shores conven-
ient places for the building of ships, its homes a sturdy host of artisans to

98 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

build, and intrepid seaman to man these vessels that became the carriers
of merchandise over the wide seas. When hostihties with the mother
country began, the sea-going traffic of every description was seriously-
crippled, and but a few vessels ventured out of the harbors for fear of the
British cruisers that swarmed our coasts. This was especially true of
Dartmouth. The whaling enterprise, grown to extensive proportions in
1775, was paralyzed the moment war broke out in the colonies. The
whaleships lay idle at the wharves, and a host of energetic, daring men
were without occupation. The development of the naval and privateer-
ing elements was as rapid as it was effective.

In October, 1775, Washington, then with headquarters at Cambridge,
issued the first commissions to six vessels, with authority to capture
only English supply vessels. Their names were the Lynch, Franklin,
Lee, Wasliington, Hari-ison and Warren. The first two named were
commissioned to intercept two English transports bound for Quebec.
This they failed to do, but they captured ten prizes, took a fortification
at St. John, and made prisoners of the governor and many others. On
their return, however, the commanders were reprimanded for exceed-
ing their orders, the prisoners were released, and the prizes given up.
In the following month the Lee captured the ship Nancy, loaded with mili-
tarv stores. This event gave great joy to the Americans and carried
profound consternation to the besieged in Boston. Well it might, for it
provided for the American army 2,000 muskets, 105,000 flints, sixty
reams of cartridge paper, thirty tons of musket shot, 3,000 round shot
for 12- pounders, 4,000 for 6-pounders, etc., — a welcome contribution
at that time.

The importance of this branch of warfare was quickly appreciated by
the Continental Congress, and a fleet of thirteen vessels was built that
may be regarded as the beginning of the United States navy. They
were named Washington, Raleigh, Hancock, Randolph, Warren, Vir-
ginia, Trumbull, Effingham, Congress, Providence, Boston, Delaware,
Montgomery. They were nearly all captured or burned before the close
of the war. In the mean time commissions to privateers were issued by
every State bordering the coast, and prize courts established with au-
thority. to condemn such vessels as were claimed as prizes. In many of
the seaport towns, vessels hitherto employed only in the peaceful pur-

ENGLAND'S LOSSES IN VESSELS.

suits of commerce, were transformed into well-armed privateers, officered
with brave and daring seamen accustomed to life on the ocean. So popu-
lar was privateering among the people that the government found serious
difficulty in obtaining crews for the naval vessels. Patriotism, com-
bined with the free and easy life of the bold privateer, the frequent op-
portunities for personal bravery, and the desire for prize money, were
strong attractions that drew into the service thousands of New Eng-
landers. Reliable authorities state that during the war more than 600
privateer vessels belonged in Massachusetts alone. Boston had a list
of 365 ; Salem nearly 150. Dr. E. E. Hale, in Winsor's "Narrative
and Critical History," says : " If we had lists equally full of the privateers
which sailed from Falmouth (Portland), from Marblehead, Falmouth,
Dartmouth, Plymouth, Barnstable, and the other towns on Cape Cod,
it is probable that we should enlarge the list of Massachusetts privateers
so that it should include more than 600 vessels. It is to be remem-
bered that all the regular operations of the fishing fleets were stopped,
and that therefore in every town on the coast there were vessels and
men ready for service, and very easily commissioned if a spirited com-
mander appeared. . . . We suppose that the average crew of a
Massachusetts privateer when she sailed was about 100 men."

On the authority of Almon's Remembrancer it is stated that in 1776,
342 sail of English vessels were captured by the Americans ; and in
1777 England suffered a loss of 467 sail, though the government kept
seventy cruisers on the American coast alone. In 1780 the Admiralty
Court in Boston had condemned 818 prizes, and in the single montli of
May, 1779, eighteen prizes were brought into New London. A suffi-
cient account of this branch of the warfare has been and will be given,
to show the importance of certain ports on the coast possessing good
harbors, easy of access, and convenient for recruiting and for running in
prizes. Among these were Portland, Portsmouth, Boston, Salem, New-
buryport, Marblehead, Falmouth, Newport, New London, New York,
Philadelphia, Baltimore, Charleston, and not the least important in the
list was Dartmouth. These were the lurking-places for the dashing
privateers which shot in and out of the harbors, threading the coast in
all directions, disappearing at the presence of some English frigate, only
to dash out and pounce on some unsuspicious merchantman, a hail, a

loo HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

shot across the bows, a crowded boat alongside, decks swarming with
men armed to the teeth, a feeble remonstrance, a surrender, and the
combat ends ; the merchantman is a prize and is soon at anchor at
Dartmouth, possibly, or in some more convenient harbor.

A few occurrences and exploits connected with privateering will be
mentioned, to illustrate what has been said regarding it. The most
convincing proof of its magnitude and importance, however, in the ab-
sence of records, is the fact that General Clinton sent such an enormous
army to lay waste the little township of Dartmouth, which at that time
numbered about 7,000 souls. And not only did Dartmouth feel the
revengeful hand of British authority, but towns, villages and hamlets
bordering the entire sea coast received similar visitations, that caused
great suffering and want among the people through the destruction of
property and the desolation of their homes.

In the lack of written history of American privateering, it has been
my good fortune to have access to valuable manuscripts in possession
of the Stoddard family of Fairhaven. Many of the extracts are cred-
ited as being made by Rev. Dr. Robbins of Rochester. These were
taken from the files of the Connecticut Courant from the year 1780 to
1783 inclusive. Others are from English magazines. While the rec-
ord deals with dates as early as 1776, it is evident that the principal
work of the privateering fleet was accomplished from 1778 to the close
of the war.

•■ In June, 1776, brig Adventure. A part}' of American soldiers from Boston cap-
tured a brig off the harbor; beai off the tender to the Kauiihis man-of-war, and carried
their prize into New Bedford.

" Sliip Congress, Capt. Boucher in 177G captured several Jamaica ships in the West
Indies, Lt. Thomas Truxton (afterward Commodore Truxton), brought one of the prizes
into New Bedfoi-d.

■' The fleet under Cora. Sir Peter Parker, with troops under Sir H. Clmton, left Sandy
Hook for Rhode Island, and at Weaver's bay the evening of the 7th, (the Bruno-Mer-
furij. King Fisher, convoying the transports, went through the sound under Com. Hol-
tham. Sir P. P., with the large ships and two transports, went outside.)

" The two fleets joined on the 5th in Black point bay. Capt. Wallace, of the Experi-
ment led the fleet in by the way of Narragansett and tookabrigof IGOtons, loaded with
staves and beeswax. The debarkation took place at daybreak on the 8th. Rhode
Island, with adjacent isle.s, is in possession of the British. Capt. Montague, of the Mer-
cury, was dispatched to England."

PAUL JONES. loi

In the magazine for January, 1777, is a dispatch from Admiral Sir
Peter Parker, acquainting the admiralty of the expedition to Rhode
Island, which closes as follows :

" On the first appearance of the fleet three reliel privateers of 34, 30, and 28 guns
went up from Newport to Providence, where they are now with several others, and I
shall hope to put an eft'eotual stop to any farther mischief from that nest of pirates."

Then followed a list of what they termed " the rebel privateers at
Providence, commonly called the Continental fleet."

The most conspicuous figure in naval history was Paul Jones. He
had no equal as a brave privateer. A Scotchman by birth, he became
a sailor, at twenty-nine was commissioned a lieutenant in the navy, and
was associated with Hopkins in the Alfred in 1776. Jones himself on
this ship unfurled the American flag the first time it was flung to the
breeze. Soon afterward he took command of the Providence, a fast
sailing craft of twelve guns. His first cruise lasted forty-seven days, dur-
ing which he captured sixteen prizes. During his famous career he
swept the British coast, carried terror to the seaport towns, burned
British vessels in their harbors, and actually cleared the British channel
of merchantmen for a time. While in command of the Providcttcc his
cruising ground made him a frequent visitor in Dartmouth harbor, and
his crew was often recruited from Dartmouth men. Among these was
Henry Perkins, of Boston Tea Party fame, who related most interesting
tales of the fierce fights in which he was engaged under Paul Jones,
some of which occurred oft" our coast.

In a terrible encounter with a British brig- of- war of superior strength
it was said that the Providence was covered with cotton bales to pro-
tect her from the large shot ot the enemy, and was provided with a lot
of scrap iron that belonged to a Mr. East, a mason, who built the man-
sion House in New Bedford, then the residence of William Rotch. The
struggle was a terrific one, and after an obstinate contest the enemy
struck his flag. It was quickly flung to the breeze again and hoisted
into position. After a tremendous broadside from the guns of the
Providenee, loaded with old spikes, bolts, and pieces of hoop iron, the
brig finally surrendered. "Why," said Perkins, thumping the floor with
his cane in his enthusiasm, " it took three men to handle each gun when
we went into action, but before the fight was finished one man did the

102 HISTORY OF iNEW BEDFORD.

same service." When the commander was asked why he replaced the
flag, he said, "I couldn't bear the idea of striking to a serving mallet."
Not much wonder that he felt mortified, for he had accosted Capt. Paul

Jones with the hail and command, " Surrender, you d d old serving

mallet " (referring to the Providence as having only one mast). This
battle took place so near this port that Jones brought his prize into
Dartmouth harbor ; and it is said that the blood of the killed and
wounded was running down the sides of the brig when she came into port.

A writer in the New Bedford Mercury years ago, stated that " the
wounded of the crew who died were brought on shore and interred in
a small hillock that rose near the shore a short distance north of the
spot once occupied by the wheel-house of William Rotch's ropewalk.
A carpenter's shop built by William Coffin covers the ground where
those men were buried." ^

Thefollowing extracts are chiefly taken from the English magazines
and, of course, relate to the captures made by the British navy. The
list might be largely extended. The American privateers were also busy
at that time, and, if records existed, it would doubtless appear that they
did equally effective work :

"Admiralty oBSce, June 27, 1777. Capt. Griffith of Her Majesty's ship the Nonsuch
[64] has sent to Plymouth a rebel privateer sloop of 10 carriage guns and 80 men,
called the Charmmg Sally, Francis Brown commander, which he took on the 16th inst.
to the W. of Cape Finistere. She belonged to Dartmouth in Mass. Bay, had been out
about five weeks, and had taken a sch. called the Betsey, William Clarke master, from
Gaspee to Jamaica, and a brig called the Hannah, Henry Beaty master, from New-
foundland to Lisbon, both laden with fish."

"Jan. 29. 1777. The Aurora, John Hutchmson master, late the Oxford of Glasgow,
taken by the rebels with a party of the 71st regiment on board, and carried into
Virginia, is brought mto Liverpool laden with 312 Hhds. on acct. of the Congress
and bound to Nantz. She was navigated by 15 men, S being Englishmen, rose upon
the others and took the ship."

" List of vessels taken by the squadron of Sir P. Parker, Dec. 7, 1770. Ship Polly,
Robert Nelson master, 160 tons, from N. C. to Lisbon ; Dec. 18, the Betsey, James Sut-

1 When Mr. C. built'his shop, in 1830, he levelled this mound, 'unearthed these skeletons, and buried
them a tew feet north of the building. His son Frederick, from whom these facts were obtained
by the writer in 1S89, was present at the time and secured two buttons found in the grave each
bearing the figure 2 and a letter. In 1841 an addition was made to the shop, and the bones were
again resurrected and reburied a short distance still further north. In September, 1889, they were
again dug up in excavating for an addition to Edmund Grinnell's iron foundry. Dr. William H.
Taylor, the medical examiner, emphatically stated that these skeletons were those of white men.
Their present resting place is in Oak Grove Cemetery.

CAPTURES BY THE BRITISH.

103

ton, from Sp. river, Cape Breton, to Lisbon; Dec. 29, the Success, Giles Pierce, from
Cliarleston, S. C, to Providence ; Dec. 30, the Betty, I. Pierce, from Jamaica to Lon-
donderry ; Dec. 30, the Liberty, Solomon Phipps, from N. London to W. Indies.

Signed, P. Parker."

" Feb. 28, 1777. Extract of a letter from Antigua, Jan. 17, 1777 : Last Wednesday
ariived here, brig Peace & Plenty, John Naldur commander, belonging to this island.
The 8th inst. was brought to by an Am. privateer, who put a boat's crew and officer on
board. In gale of wind parted them, when Capt. Nalder and his crew fell upon the
rebels and overpowered them. Secured them under hatches and brot them into this
place. The privateer was Achilles Snow, of 12 car. guns and 16 swivels, commanded
by one Williams, formerly a midshipman in the English navy."

" Admy, Mch 12, 1777. By letter from Admiral Young it appears that he has taken
the Am. Privateer Putnam 12 guns and SO men, beside 12 other rebel vessels between
30th Sept & 6th Dec."

" June 24. Vice Admiral Gayton on the Jamaica Station writes in his letter of 2d
last month that the whole number of rebel vessels which had been taken by the ships
under his command amounted to 124 sail."

"Sept. 3, 1777. Lieut. Jarvis, commanding armed cutter, took the Am. privateer
Liberty, of S. Carolina, Pitney, commander, off" the Berry Head, after a warm engage-
ment of 5 Glasses, [Hours.] She mounted 6 four-pounders and six swivel guns, had
62 men. Five men killed and captain wounded. Hunters had 4 men killed and 3
wounded slightly."

"Admy office, Oct. 6, 1777. Lieut. Bouchier, commanding H. M. sloop Druid, writes
that he had a severe action with a rebel privateer in Co. with H. M. ship the Camel.
The Druid lost her captain, who was named Cartent, and died of a wound reed, the first
broadside, and six killed ; 4 died of wounds received in action and 21 wounded."

" H. M. Ship Centaur at sea, Oct. 16, 1777. Capt. Hughes of the above ship writes
that on the 12th he fell in with and took the Am. schr. Betsey from Nantz, bound to
Edenton, N. C, laden with gunpowder, arms, tents and woolen for the rebel army, all
consigned to Congress."

" Nov. 6, 1777, Vice Adml. Montague writes that Cap. M'Bride of H. M. Ship Bien-
faisant had taken the Am. Privateer Ann Tartar, 24 guns, 200 men."

"July 9, 1778. Universal Magazine. Capt. Bryne of H. M. ship Andromeda writes
to M. Stephens that on his voyage from the Delaware on the 31st of May he fell in
with and took the Angelica, privateer, from Boston, 16 six-pounders, 98 men, set on
fire."

" Aug. 28. 1778. The Swallow, packet, on board which was Marleani, agent of the
Nabob of Arcot, with it is supposed £100,000 of property was carried into Fayal by two
American privateers. They took her off" the Cape of Good Hope, and after disposing
of her property converted her into a privateer and sailed in company on a fresh adven-

■ Jan. 2.5, 1780. Extract from letter from Bergen, Feb. 4. The American priv. Al-
liance, Capt Landers, two days ago sent in her 2 prizes, viz. The Betsey Fi.'her from

I04 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Liverpool to N York, and tlie Union Johnson from London to Quebeck. She has taken
also 3 others which she sent to France she only sailed from L' Orient Aug 14. One of
Paul Jones fleet."

" Boston, Feb. 14. By Capt. Potter who arrived here last night in 20 days from
Charlestown, S. C, we learn that the Boston, Providence, Ranger and Queen of France
which sailed from hence the latter part of November, arrived at that port the 19th
Dec, after a passage of 26 days."

"Took a Brig of 12 Guns from St. Augustine that a Packet boat had decoyed in
there, a Privateer brig called the Lady Crosby of 12 guns and 18 men from N. Y., laden
with cloathing for the new levies there, not knowing but she was going into Georgia
by which they learnt that the fleet from N. Y. bound to Georgia which sailed & the
latter end of Dec. had been separated by the storm that scarcely 2 vessels were to be
seen together. That in consequence the Providence & Ranger in conjunction with 4
French Frigates sailed from there on or about the 23d January in order to pick up some
of the scattered transports."

" Portsmouth, July 20. Last Monday wa,s sent into port by the Rover, privateer, com-
manded by Capt. Bradstreet, a Priv. Brig from Ireland, bound to New Foundland, laden
with the following articles, viz. : 250 barrels pork and beef, 200 firkins butter, 10 tons
flour, 10 tons bread. 50 barrels oatmeal, 500 bushels salt, and a large cable fit for a 70
gun ship and a large quantity of cordage, sails, etc. The Privateer that took her
was a small schooner with 15 or 20 men."

■'Boston. June 8, 1780. Monday last arrived at Dartmouth a brig bound from Cork
to New York, taken by H. M. C. M. Frigate L'Hermione, commanded by the Chevarle
Touche. Cargo 1760 firkins Butter, 150 Boxes Candles, & 150 boxes Soap. The prize
is now commanded by Mons. Louis Daniel Charier volunteer of the Frigate.

"Boston, July 27, 1780. Tuesday arrived at Salem a prize ship with upwards of 1000
bbls. of Beef captured by priv. Fortune of that port. Last week arrived at Cape Ann
the priv. Genl. Stark from a Cruise in which she captured 3 Ships bound to Quebec,
laden witli rum and dry goods, one of which has since arrd."

" Hartford, Jan. 16, 1781. A few days since a Schooner arrd. at Newport in 6 days
from Wilmington, N. C, being manned by several people belonging to Rhode Island,
who had made their escape from a Prison Ship in Charleston, S. C, in the foUowiag
manner : One evening observing a Schooner come to anchor near the prison ship with
several negroes on lioard, they took an opportunity while the .sentry was off his guard
to get from the prison ship on board the Schooner, and immediately making sail they
got out of the Harbor. They afterward put into Wilmington, where they sold the
negroes, and with the money, bought a cargo of Naval Stores, witli which they arrived
safe at Newport."

"New London, Sept. 12, 17S1. Tuesday arrived a small sloop laden with naval
stores, prize to the Hancock. The Br. lleet that left the sound lately were at Martha's
Vineyard last week demanding large supplies from the inhabitants. Since seen
standing S."

"Philadelphia, Sept. 19, 1781. Yesterday came up to town the private armed ship

HON. WESTON HOWLANUS ACCOUNT. 105

Congress, Capt. Gaddis, of this port, from a cruise. About seven days ago ofl' Charles-
town she fell in with the Br. sloop of war Savage, Capt. Stirting, of 20 .guns, with
whom she engaged upwards of six glasses, most of the time yard arm and yard arm,
when the Congress attempting to board her, she struck. We hear that the Savage had
between fifty and sixty men killed and wounded, and the Congress 8 killed and between
20 and 30 wounded, some of whom are now dead. The C. brot in near 100 prison-
ers from the prize, which may be hourly expected."

" C. C. March 5, London Nov. 10. The Iris man-of-war taken in company with the
Richmond and Gaudelope by the Freach is an American built vessel, was called the
Hancock, taken by H. M. ship Rainbow of 44 guns. She is a prime sailer, and since be-
ing in our service has taken so many prizes in America that the oflBcers have all made
fortunes. She was distinguished by the name of the lucky Iris."

" The S. C. Gaz. of Jan. 12 says that Capt. Samuel Spencer in the Brig. Betsey from
Georgia for the port of Charleston with upwards of 100 souls on board was taken by the
Guadelope (Br. Frigate) Captain Robinson, who treated his prisoners with great human-
ity and generosity."

" Capt. Simeon Samson, in the Mercury packet belonging to the U. S., arrived at
Holmes Hole last Tuesday night from Nantz, in France, which he left ISth Nov. with
despatches for Congress. Passr. Elisha Hunt Saybrook."

Hon. Weston Howland gives the following interesting account relat-
ing to privateering, mentioning many family names that are familiar to
New Bedford citizens :

'• In those days American vessels were manned by Americans, captains, officers and
news. It was customary for the crews to engage their services for so much per month,
With liberty to take a certain amount of cargo on their own account for the purposes of
trade. Quite early in the war (1778 or 79), Captain Daniel Ricketson, grandfather of
our present honored and exemplary citizen and historian, with Cornelius Howland,
grandfather of the present Cornelius Howland, Jr., as mate, Cornehus Grinnell, father of
the late Hon. Joseph Grranell, and Weston Howland (my grandfather), with other
Dartmouth boys in the crew, sailed from Boston with a full cargo for foreign pons.
Each of the above mentioned carried their venture for trade, purchased with the money
saved up from previous voyages. A few days from home they were captured by an
English 74-gun ship, and were taken with the Brig to the Island of Bermuda, and theie
confined as prisoners on board the prison ship. In a short time a Baltimore clipper
schooner as a prize, was brought in, which the Governor of the island had fitted as a
yacht for pleasure sailing about the group of islands. Among those he took for a crew
were Cornelius Howland, Cornelius Grinnell and Weston Howland, and now as yacht-
men they were faring sumptuously. Tet the restless Yankee spirit led them, under the
lead of Cornelius Howland, to conspire and plan on their next excur.siou to capture the
schooner, and brmg the Governor, with his suite, into New York or Boston, and it
would have been successful but for the conscience of one of the Dartmouth boys, who
claimed that they had all been treated so handsomely by the Governor that it would be
wrong to attempt the capture, and to prevent it, he notified the Governor of the yacht.

io6 HISIORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

when they were all taken out of the clipper schooner and kept as close prisoners nntil
exclianged, when they returned to their homes in Dartmouth."

The records reveal abundant illustrations of valor and prowess. In
spite of the sufifering and cruelty involved, there is a charm about those
terrible conflicts on the sea. Think of that great fleet of merchant ves-
sels under the convoy of British frigates that sailed from Torquay on
Ma\' 30, 1780, thirty-eight sail in all, richly laden with ammunition and
military stores, provisions and supplies of every kind, West India goods
for soldier and citizen — all intended for Quebec, the base of supplies
for the English army. What a magnificent sight that fleet must have
been as it swept out into the broad ocean !

Three days out, a French fleet of war vessels swept down upon the
fleet and captured seven of them. A number of American privateers
then took a hand in the affair and captured nineteen. The remainder
of the squadron was nearly all captured by American cruisers at the
mouth of the St. Lawrence. It was a crushing blow to the province of
Canada, and must have caused great suffering to its people and the Brit-
ish army. It was estimated that each prize was worth ^20,000, and the
captured cargoes were well adapted to the wants of the Americans.

A few days after this event is recorded the arrival at Salem of the
ship Brutus, which, in company with the America and the Saucy Jack,
privateers, had captured ten richly laden vessels of the Quebec fleet.

In January, 1782, the brig Marian, Captain Packwood, captured the
British ship St. Lawrence. A prize crew often men, under command
of Lieutenant Cardwile, was put on board, with orders to proceed to
New London, or the first safe port. On the nth of January they sighted
Martha's Vineyard and anchored off" Old Town (Edgartown), and
fired two guns for a pilot. Henry Fish, with five men. came on
board and was given charge of the ship by Cardwile. While getting
under way another pilot, with the same number of men, came on board.
Soon afterward Captain Peter Pease, with five men, put in an appearance.
The presence of so many pilots on one vessel proved an unfortunate
circumstance for the captors; for while the ship was working its way to
the westward under the direction of Fish, Pease was below with Card-
wile (who was sick) and persuaded him to give the charge of the craft
to Pease. On gaining his consent he brought the vessel to anchor off"

CAPTURE OF LUNENBURG. 107

Gayhead about four o'clock in the afternoon, the wind blowing east-
northeast. For three days she lay at this point, until Captain Card-
wile and his people grew weary and insisted that the ship should pro-
ceed, the wind being fair. Pease accordingly made sail and stood be-
tween Gayhead and No-Man's-Land, bringing the ship to anchor at
eight o'clock. This caused great uneasiness among the people and they
soon complained to Captain Cardwile, for the boats crews had refused
duty and the sails remained unfurled. At 12 o'clock the wind suddenly
shifted to west-northwest, blowing a gale, and the ship dragged anchor.
Pease then advised the men to assist in handling the sails, but fhe ship
continued to drag, with every prospect of going ashore unless immedi-
ately put to sea. Captain Cardwile and his men, with Fish, the first-
named pilot, were in favor of this plan, but Pease and two or three of
his men refused to go to sea and raised such a mutiny that the ship
could not be got under way. Suddenly the cable parted and the vessel
was at the mercy of wind and wave. It was too late to get clear of the
land. Pease then ordered the men at the helm to run her ashore, which
was done, and she went crashing into the breakers on the rockbound
shore. The vessel immediately went to pieces, and out of the twenty-
eight persons on board, fifteen perished. Among those who lost their
lives was Captain Cardwile.

Captain Noah Stoddard, of Fairhaven, was a prominent privateer
commander of the Revolution and participated in many spirited con-
flicts. Conspicuous among his exploits was the capture of Lunenburg,
a little town on the shore near Halifax, N. S. An expedition consist-
ing of four privateers, the Scammel, Captain Stoddard ; Hero, Captain
Rabcock; Hope, Captain Woodbury; and the Swallow, Captain Tib-
bets, sailed for that place July 1st, 1782, and landed a force of ninety
men under Lieutenant Barteman, two miles below the town. They
marched rapidly with the intention of surprising the inhabitants, but
were greeted with heavy discharges of musketry as they entered the
town. They quickly burned the commanding officers' headquarters, a
block-house in the northwest part of the town, spiked two 24-pounders
and drove the plucky defenders into the south block-house. Here they
made a stubborn resistance, opened a brisk fire on the invaders, and dis-
closed their purpose to hold out to the last extremity. Their courage

io8 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

forsook them on the receipt of several four-pound shot from the Hero, and
they surrendered themselves prisoners of war. The account says that
" the victorious party, with a natural and pleasing vivacity, fell to plun-
dering the town and quickly emptied the stores of a considerable quan-
tity of dry goods, beef, pork, flour, and twenty puncheons of West India
rum." While this was being accomplished, the combined fleet ap-
proached the town, and two 1 8-pound guns were spiked and dismounted,
the royal magazine captured, and taken on board the Scammel. The
town was ransomed for ;^i,000. Colonel Creighton, with several prom-
inent cftizens, was made prisoner and placed in charge of Captain
Stoddard. The account says " the strictest decorum was observed to-
ward the inhabitants, their wearing apparel and household furniture be-
ing inviolably preserved for their use. On the side of the brave sons
of liberty, three were wounded slightly or dangerously ; on the part of
the abbettors of oppression and despotism the number of slain and
wounded was unknown, only one of the slain being found."

A remarkable capture and recapture occurred on the Massachusetts
coast in the month of April, 1782. A new ship lay at anchor at Cape
Ann, laden with a valuable cargo and ready for a voyage to Carracas.
Early one morning a barge with fifteen men belonging to a British brig
of fourteen guns, swept alongside. This audacious crew took quick
possession of her, hoisted the anchor, shook out the sails, and away she
went on the wings of the wind, a prize to the British crown. The news
of this event reached Salem at 10 o'clock on the same morning. At i
o'clock the privateer ship Marquis de La Fayette and a cutter got under
way and went out in quest of her. On the same day an armed vessel
sailed from Newburyport on the same errand. From Portsmouth the
privateer Revolution, Captain Webb, was likewise sent out. They re-
turned at night unsuccessful.

At Cape Ann there lay a ship at the wharf with neither sails, rigging
or ballast on board, and with topmasts on deck. Between sunrise
and 1 1 o'clock on the morning of the following day, the enterpris-
ing inhabitants of Cape Ann rigged, ballasted, manned and armed
this vessel, bent her sails and got under way in eager pursuit of the
captured ship. The next morning they sighted her, came up with her
at I o'clock, retook her, and that afternoon both vessels were safe at

INVASION OF DARTMOUTH.

log

anchor at Cape Ann. It is an interesting circumstance that both ves-
sels were the property of the same merchant. None but thoroughbred
Yankees could have performed such a daring deed. The privateer es-
caped.

There were no privateers owned and fitted from New Bedford. They
were mostly owned in Boston, Connecticut and Rhode Island, and ren-
dezvoused here. A large sloop called the Broome, twelve guns, com-
manded by Stephen Cahoone, of Rhode Island, and The Black Snake,
a long, low, black schooner, frequently came into this harbor. The latter
was owned in Connecticut and mounted eight carriage guns.

These authentic incidents are sufficient to give a comprehensive idea
of the bold privateer of song and story, his peculiar methods of opera-
tion, and to show that Dartmouth harbor was an important rendezvous
for those engaged in this species of warfare. And herein lies a potent
reason for the punishment administered of September 5, 1778.

CHAPTER VIII.

THE BRITISH INVASION.

Dartmouth's Loyalty — Defenceless Condition of the Town — Anticipatory Prepa-
rations — Operations at Newport — The British Fleet and Forces — Terror of the In-
habitants — Authentic Incidents of the Invasion — Burning of the Town —Bloodshed
— Feeble Defence — The Enemy at Fairhaven.

SATURDAY, September 5, 177S, was a notable day in our local
history. In her devotion to the country's cause, Dartmouth had
sown the wind ; she was to reap the whirlwind. She had proved a
rankling thorn to the enemy, and was now to receive the scourging
lash of the British army. No better proof of Dartmouth's lo3alt)- is
needed.

The people had ample notice that something unusual was to happen.
On August 17 the selectmen and committee of safety posted a notice

1 1 o HIS2 OR Y OF NE IV BEDFORD.

in the public places ordering the inhabitants immediately to cause all
goods, wares, and merchandise, that were private property, and not
necessary for subsistence, to be moved into the country or to some safe
place. They were informed that the selectmen and committee of safety
were authorized and would move all goods, at the owners' expense,
after two days had passed. If necessary they would impress teams or
employ vessels to convey the goods to a place of safety. In this posted
notice all persons having charge of property belonging to the State, or
to the United States, the Continental agents. Board of War, were de-
sired to remove such as soon as might be.

How portentous was the wording of this order, and how defenceless
was the whole township should the enemy come in large numbers !
True, the little fort at Fairhaven (known to the present generation as
Fort PhcEnix) was armed and equipped and might resist any ordinary
attack from the sea. Eleven iron cannon were mounted on platforms,
the magazine was full of ammunition, the fortification was well garri-
soned with a company of thirty-two men under command of Capt.
Timothy Ingraham and Lieut. Foster, and the barracks would accom-
modate 200 men. Moreover, there were two cannon mounted and in
working position on Clark's Point. Surely these defences would be
sufficient to repel an attack from the sea, and would not the companies
of minute men from the surrounding towns respond quickly to the
alarm ? Would they not be a wall of protection from any demonstra-
tion on the land ? Many of the people thought so and gained much
comfort thereby, little dreaming what a mighty host would soon march
through the town. The harbor swarmed with ships, sloops, boats, and
prizes, either at anchor or lying at the wharf For safety many of
these were moved up the river, as if the little distance would place them
beyond the reach of any possible harm.

While the people were waiting in hope and fear there was at anchor
in the harbor of New London a formidable squadron of British war
ships soon to sail for this port. Why they were there, and under what
circumstances, it is important to consider at this point. Philadelphia
was evacuated in the latter part of the month of June, 1778. Lord
Clinton, with the army, departed for New York. Lord Howe, with the
British squadron, sailed from the Delaware on June 28, arrived at

NAVAL MOVEAIENTS. m

Sandy Hook the next day, and worked his way over the bar into the
inner harbor. Count D'Estaing, with his fleet of French frigates, after
a long passage, arrived off the Delaware too late to intercept the British
squadron, and he proceeded to New York, arriving at Sandy Hook
Jul)" II. It was expected that a fight would take place, but the pilots
provided for the French ships declared that the large vessels could not
be safely conducted over the bar, and the project was abandoned. At
the request of Washington, the Count proceeded to Rhode Island, then
in possession of the British. General Greene had been sent there by
Washington to co-operate with General Sullivan in arranging the plans
of the army. Lafayette with 2,ooo French troops was to participate
in this notable event.

Ten thousand troops had been gathered from all parts of New Eng-
land, and when D'Estaing entered Newport harbor joy came to the
hearts of the Americans and dismay to the 6,000 British soldiers who
held the island and its defences. Several British warships were burned
to escape capture by the French. In a few days D'Estaing sailed from
the harbor to meet the British squadron that had followed him from
New York. They had an encounter off Point Judith without any spe-
cial advantage to either party. At this time a fearful gale arose that is
stiil remembered in tradition among the Newport people, when the
windows of the houses inland were incrus'.ed with salt, deposited by the
sea water borne on the wind. The storm continued with great violence
for forty-eight hours. The fleets were scattered and separated, D'Es-
taing's flagship, the Languedoc, ninety guns, losing her rudder and all her
masts. When the gale had subsided, the French fleet sailed for Boston
for repairs, against the earnest protests of Greene and Lafayette. The
American troops that had crossed over to the island retreated and the
siege was raised. The British squadron followed D'Estaing to Boston
harbor, and it was thought that a sea fight would occur at this point.
It was found that the French held a superior position, and it was deemed
unwise to risk an attack. The British squadron left the coast and pro-
ceeded to New London, where it had hoped to capture a number of
privateers. Here Sir Henry Clinton left the fleet. In his dispatches to
Lord Germaine, dated September 15, he says: "I left the fleet, di-
recting Major- General Gray to proceed to Bedford, a noted rendezvous

1 1 2 HISTOR Y OF NE W BEDFORD.

for privateers, etc., and in which there were a number of captured ships
at the time."

And thus it happened through this singular chain of events that the
British had a powerful force to send to this harbor. The detached fleet
consisted of two frigates, one of them the Carysfoot of forty guns, with
Rear Admiral Gambier and Major-General Gray on board, an i8-gun
brig, and thirty-six transports. The troops numbered about 4,000, and
consisted of the following: First Battalion, Light Infantry; First Bat-
talion of Grenadiers; Thirty- third. Forty-second, Forty-sixth, and
Sixty- fourth Regiment of Foot. The Forty-sixth Regiment plays an
important part in this history. It holds in its possession to-day a Bible
that was taken by its soldiers from a house in Dartmouth at the time of
the invasion. The book is carefully preserved in the mess-room of the
regiment, and it has been carried on every campaign and expedition for
more than a hundred years. The history of this remarkable book is of
special interest to the Masonic fraternity. This incident will be devel-
oped in its course.

On the evening of the 4th of September the squadron sailed for Buz-
zard's Bay. A few days before the arrival of the enemy, a company of
artillery had been sent from Boston, consisting of eighty men and four
officers, Capt. James Gushing, and Lieuts. Joseph Bell, William Gordon,
and James Metcalf. The men were entertained at the poor-house, then
situated on Sixth street south of Spring. The garrison at the fort and
the artillery company were the only armed forces stationed in the
town ; and unfortunately the latter was at Stone Bridge, except a de-
tachment with one gun under command of Lieuts. Gordon and Metcalf,
that had returned on the day of the invasion.

There must have been a large number of citizens away from their
homes in the service of the army at this time, as the muster rolls indi-
cate. Then there was a considerable number of Friends, who had
scruples against bearing arms. It was said that aside from the above-
mentioned soldiery there were not fifteen able-bodied men on this side
of the river at the time of the coming of the British army.

The proclamation of the committee of safety was significant enough
to carry terror into every household. From the date of this alarming
document, the families on both sides of the river were transporting their

^yCc:^<^t^^eI^Z^i

^^i^i^

FLIGHT OF THE INHABITANTS. 113

valuables into the woods, secreting them in out-of-the-way places, stor-
ing their food where it could be easily found, and using every expedi-
ent to make bearable their enforced stay in the woods.

The following authentic cases illustrate what probably occurred in
many a household on the Acushnet River. Mrs. Lydia T. Barnard, a
woman of eighty-four years, and a member of the Society of Friends,
gives the following facts : Her grandfather, William Russell, who came
to Bedford with the Rotches from Nantucket in 1765, lived in a house
on the southeast corner of Water and School streets. (This building
was subsequently moved to Front street and is now used as a stable by
A. K. P. Sawin. Denison's flour-mill stands on the old location.) Many
of Mr. Russell's household goods were moved into the woods. Among
the articles which he was obliged to leave in the house was a tall clock
which he prized highly. So he carefully removed the works, and with
grandmother, the baby (Mrs. Barnard's mother), went to Rockdale.
Here he hid the clock works in a stone wall, and leaving his family in
the woods, returned to the house and awaited the enemy. The house
was set on fire by the British soldiers. Mr. Russell succeeded in putting
out the fire after they had left, and so saved his dwelling from destruction.

\Vatson Ellis, jr., now seventy-nine, gives the following inci-
dents related to him by Miss Betsey Tinkham, who lived to the age of
ninety-five, dying in 1842. She lived in a house on the northwest cor-
ner of Union street and Acushnet avenue. This was the ancestral
home of the historian, Daniel Ricketson, and the building is still stand-
ing. Miss Tinkham was attending a wedding at Clark's Cove on the
day of the invasion. Happening to look out of the window she saw
the approaching fleet far down the bay. Miss Tinkham lost her inter-
est in the wedding and wanted to go home. She went up the road with
flying steps, not stopping until she reached the Ricketson house at the
head of the Cove. Here she stopped a few minutes to rest, and then
resuming her flight, she hastened to her home, gathered up what she
could of her household treasures, carried them to the shore and packed
them in a boat, whence they were floated up the river to a place of
supposed safety. Alas, for human calculation ! They were burned,
boat and all, by the enemy during the succeeding night. Miss Tink-
ham, with her neighbors, spent several days in the woods.

1 1 4 HIS! OR Y OF NE W BEDFORD.

Among the many interesting incidents in Mr. Ricketson's history of
New Bedford, is one told of a man named Joe Castle, who was in the
employ of Joseph Russell. He went over to the enemy at the time of
their landing. Deeming a written notice to his master more agreeable
than a verbal one, he wrote with chalk on the barn door the night he
took his departure :

■' I make no more stone wall
For old Joe Russell."

This impolite traitor and Eldad Tupper, a Quaker Tory, were em-
ployed as guides by the British in their work of destruction. Tupper's
name is found in a long list of persons who had left the State and joined
the enemy. These were forbidden to return under penalty of arrest
and heavy fine.'

George H. Taber, of Fairhaven, now eighty-three years of age,
tells a story related to him by his mother, of a woman, who, in her
haste to get to a place of safety, abandoned her household effects, her
wearing apparel, and all the precious articles that comprised her worldly
possessions, and fled with her neighbors to the woods. Abandoned all?
No, not quite all ; one precious thing she could not leave — her warm-
ing-pan. And so, with this useful article swinging to even time with
her fleeting steps, she sped on the wings of the wind. She might as
well have had a copper drum, for it sent out ringing notes on the air as
it received the thumps of nature's drumsticks protruding from tree and
bush. Her companions in terror protested against its being carried
farther on the journey, for fear that the martial tones would reveal their
wheieabouts to the enemy. Their appeals were in vain. Nobly she
struggled against their importunities, and when at last they turned from
her, leaving her alone and unprotected, she bravely held to her warm-
ing-pan and prepared to battle single-handed with the enemy. But
the)' came not in that direction and so happily ends the story.

.Mother Gerrish, a staid and matronly Friend, was busily engaged in
her household duties, and was about to sand her well-swept floors (car-
pets were a rare luxury in colonial days), when her affrighted neigh-
bors appeared and urged her to flee with them. She quietly proceeded
with her work, simply remarking to her anxious friends: "If the enemy
come to m\' house the\' shall find it in good order."

' Allen's Remembrances.

LANDING OF THE INVADERS. 115

Miss Alice Hart, now living on County street (1892), gives the fol-
lowing experiences of her ancestors in those early days of trial. Her
grandfather went to sea and never came back ; vessel and crew were
lost. At the time of the invasion, her grandmother, Mrs. Jerusha
Smith, and two little children were living alone and struggling for ex-
istence. When the panic came a kind neighbor offered to help them
away from their house. "Taking my mother, then two years old, on
his back, my grandmother with the baby in her arms, they traveled
through the woods until they reached a house in which they hoped to
find .shelter. But to their astonishment they were refused admittance,
because the children had whooping-cough. Pursuing their way, they
came to a more hospitable roof, where they were taken in with a hearty
welcome, their kind host remarking, ' we are in fear of enemies more
to be dreaded than the whooping-cough.'"

Worth Baits was a soldier, and his name appears in the Dartmouth
list of Revolutionary patriots. He went down the bay on the morning
of the 5th of September, 1778, and was the first to discover the ap-
proaching fleet. Landing at tiie fort, he communicated this important
intelligence to the garrison. The boom of the signal gun carried the
tidiness to the inhabitants on both sides of the river.

" With a favorable wind," said the dispatches of Sir Henrv Clinton,
the British fleet set sail from New London on the evening of the 4th of
September. A portion of the fleet worked to the eastward, and pass-
ing Egg Island, landed their soldiers on Sconticut Neck, out of range
of the guns of the fort. Most of the vessels however, glided into Clark's
Cove, under the pilotage of a Dartmouth Tory, and reaching the deep
water line about due west of the city farm, landed their contributions
of armed men and military stores. What a host must have crowded
the shore and adjacent fields! Yet without confusion, for everything
was conducted with military discipline. By the time the barges had
landed the last of this formidable foe, the day was far spent and the sun
far on its journey toward the horizon. ^

In the group surrounding the general was a figure, conspicuous for

1 In a letter to Sir Henry Clinton, September i8, 1778, General Grey said : " By five o'clock in the
afternoon of the 5th, the ships were at anchor in Clark's Cove, and the boats having been pre-
viously hoisted out, the debarkation of the troops took place immediately."

ii6 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

his manly beauty and martial bearing, who was to fill a pathetic page
in our national history — Capt. John Andre, bearer of dispatches on
General Grey's stafT, a mere stripling of twenty- seven when he
marched with the British troops through our township. Two years
later he was adjutant-general, with the rank of major, on Sir Henry
Clinton's staff, and purchased his death and fame by one courageous
service for his king.

The lovely Acushnet, now so calm and peaceful, stretching away
among the woody plains, was to be the scene of a conflagration abso-
lutely consuming in its greed the prosperity, and well-nigh the exist-
ence, of the town.

The British army marched up the old middle road, and sweeping
across the head of the Cove, entered the forest path that led to the
town. Over this highway (County street) a century before, and two
centuries before our day and generation, marched Capt. Benjamin Church
and his Plymouth soldiers, guarding their train of Indian captives from
Russell's garrison on their way to Plymouth and to servitude across the
sea.

When the troops reached the intersecting road. Union street (then
called King street), the columns divided, one part marching down to
the river, while the other continued onward to the Head- of- the- River,
and then southward through Fairhaven to Sconticut Neck. The most
important work devolved upon the former party, for to them came the
duty of destroying the business part of the town.

Tradition says that the night was one of surpassing beauty, for the
moon made it as light as day. It is probable that the naval forces co-
operated with the troops, but just what that part was is not clear from
the meager records. In the dispatches sent September 6 to Sir Henry
Clinton is found the following, which certainly shows that they partici-
pated in the work : " I send you an outline sketch of the scene of op-
erations, the plans of execution of the naval part, with the minutes of
the manner in which it was performed."

It should be borne in mind that in 1776 there were but 6,773 inhab-
itants in the entire township, and that that number was probably not
exceeded in 1778 ; that Bedford village was a cluster of houses border-
ing the river front; that three wharves — Rotch's, Russell's and Mc-

THE ENEMY'S WORK. 117

Pherson's at Bellville — were the principal places for the fitting of ships ;
that the warehouses, shops, and stores were largely situated east of
Water street and between Commercial and Middle streets; that the
farms and forests covered the western slopes. All this should be re-
membered in order to comprehend what a disastrous affair this invasion
was.

The evident purpose of the expedition was to cripple the maritime
interests of the town rather than to destroy the homes of the people.
However this may have been, a large number were burned, and with
them much private property and household goods.

With the arrival of troops along the river front commenced the con-
flagration, the distillery and two ropewalks being the first buildings
burned. The exact location of the former was definitely fixed by the
late Thomas Durfee. He said that it stood on the west end of land
now covered by the granite building of Thomas M. Hart at the head
of Commercial street. The tide ebbed and flowed at that time close up
to the distillery. Mr. Durfee said his father used to send him to get
clay that was found in the distillery ruins, and which was used for plas-
tering the chimneys of their blacksmith shop. The ropewalks above
mentioned were undoubtedly situated near the Second street cemetery,
and extended to the river. According to the map of Bedford village
in 1815, made by Gilbert Russell, Butler & Allen's ropewalk was im-
mediately south of Rotch's ropewalk, north of this site. It is a fair in-
ference that those destroyed were located in this section.

Along the lower streets and wharves moved the troops, continuing
their work of destruction — warehouses, shops, and stores were soon en-
veloped in the flames. On the whole river front the fire fiend held high
carnival, embracing everything that had made the people prosperous.

The property destroyed, as reported by the enemy, was as follows :
Eight sail of large vessels from 200 to 300 tons, most of them prizes ;
six armed vessels, carrying from ten to sixteen guns; a number of
sloops and schooners of inferior size, amounting in all to seventy, be-
sides whaleboats and others. Among the prizes were three taken by
Count D'Estaing's fleet. Twenty-six storehouses at Bedford, several
at McPherson's wharf, Craw's Mills and Fairhaven were destroyed.
These were filled with quantities of rum, sugar, molasses, coffee, to-

1 1 8 HISTOR Y OF NE W BEDFORD.

bacco, cotton, tea, medicines, gunpowder, sail-cloth, cordage, etc. Two
ropewalks were also burned.'

The brig No Duty on Tea, enveloped in flames, floated from Mc-
Pherson's wharf and grounded on Marsh island. Other vessels drifted
on the islands and shores as far down as Fort Phoenix. For many
years after, navigation on the river was obstructed by sunken craft.
Charles Eldredge relates that within his memory wrecks were to be
seen near Crow island, on the shore where now is Rodman's wharf, and
east of Rotch's wharf was a sunken vessel that proved a serious obsta-
cle to navigation until it was finally removed by the United States gov-
ernment about fifty years ago.

A little before 9 o'clock, or after some of the vessels which had been
set on fire on the Bedford side had drifted down towards the fort, the
detachment which landed on the east side advanced upon the fort from
the eastward. Two guns were fired at the fleet, and after spiking the
guns the garrison retreated to the north, leaving their colors flying.
The British, supposing the fort to be still garrisoned, opened fire upon
it with their artillery, but soon ceased as the fire was not returned.
The garrison were at this time ranged along a low wall a short distance
to the north of the fort, waiting to discover the exact position of the
enemy in order to make their retreat successfully. They were soon
discovered by the British, who opened fire upon them and wounded a man
by the name of Robert Crossman A ball passed through one wrist
and across the other. A hasty retreat was then commenced, and the
enemy, not knowing the exact position and strength of the Americans,
did not make a vigorous pursuit. The whole garrison, with the e.xcep-
tion of the wounded man and tu o others, John Skiff and his father, who
were taken prisoners, succeeded in making their escape to the woods
at some little distance north of Fairhaven, where they lay concealed
through the night and until the British had passed them from the Head-
of-the River. Before the fort was exacuated a train of powder was
placed from the magazine to the platform. The British upon entering,
after destroying the ramrods, sponges, etc., applied a slow match to the

1 From the records of the Forty-sixth, or South Devonshire Regiment of Foot, is made the fol-
lowing e.xtract : " On the evening of the 5th of September the troops landed, overcame all opposi-
tion, destroyed seventy privateers and other vessels, demolished the fort and artillery, blew up the
magazine, destroying immense quantities of naval stores, etc., and returned on board the trans-
ports at noon the following day."

THE FIRST BLOOD SHED. 119

magazine, which, communicating with the train left by the garrison,
was blown up sooner than was expected One man at least was killed,
for the fragments of his gun, cap, and accoutrements were afterwards
discovered near by. After burning the barracks and guard-house the
detachment moved north, destroying vessels and stores, and formed a
junction with the detachment from the west side somewhere near the
head of the Acushnet, after which they marched down toward the fort.

John Gilbert who was in the employ of Joseph Russell, and who had
been engaged during the day in removing the household goods, was
sent back with a horse to convey Mrs. Russell to a place of safety.
She had gone, leaving orders that he should take Miss Peace Akins, a
relative of the family, and the only person remaining in the house.
Gilbert was at the horse-block, ready to perform his gallant duty, when
the advance soldiers came in sight down County street. He urged her
to hurry; but she had forgotten something (how like a woman !) and
must return to the house. Before she came back the troops were pass-
ing, and while Miss Akins was in the act of getting on the horse, a sol-
dier came up, seized the bridle, and ordered Gilbert to get off. Gilbert
made no reply, but pulling the reins suddenly, the horse knocked the
soldier down, and Gilbert made his escape, leaving Miss Akins on the
horse-block. She was evidently in a favorable position to see the mil-
itary procession ! Several British officers rode up and assured her that
if she would remain quiet she would not be harmed, and so she re-
mained, a calm spectator of the passing pageant. The officers were
courteous enough to stay with her until the review closed. Gilbert re-
ceived no injury and made his escape up the Smith Mills road.

Though in haste, he found time to answer the inquiries of William
Hayden and Oliver Potter, whom he met, regarding the whereabouts
of the British troops, and informed them that they were passing abreast
of them. These citizens, who were armed with muskets, cut across the
fields, secreted themselves under cover of the dense woods bordering
what is now County street, near the head of North street. They chose
their opportunity and fired into the troops, killing two of the soldiers.

This was the first blood shed. It was quickly followed by what was
the most tragic occurrence of the invasion, and which took place but a
few moments after the killing of the soldiers. Three citizens, Abram

120 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Russell, Thomas Cook, and Diah Trafford, were coming up the road we
now call North street, on their way to the woods beyond. They were
fired upon by the British soldiers and advanced upon with the bayonet.
Russell was killed immediately, his head, as one account gives it, " being
entirely cut to pieces." Cook died early in the morning, his bowels
being ripped open with a bayonet. Trafford was wounded in the leg
and died the next day. The three men lay in the road all night, but
were carried into Joseph Russell's barn in the morning. Trafford
was a young man, twenty- one years of age, and in the employ of Jo-
seph Russell. Cook was occasionally employed by him. Russell was
forty years of age. He and Cook were buried in Dartmouth. Traf-
ford's body found a resting-place in the burial-ground on the shore
where the sailors that were killed in the Paul Jones privateer fight were
buried.

Many of our elderly citizens remember the old house that stood near
the corner of County and North streets. It was standing in the days
of the Revolution ; and it was in this vicinity that the tragedies above
spoken of occurred. The inmates of this house had an experience that
must be given at this point. The facts are given the writer by Mr.
David B. Kempton. His grandmother died in 1848, at the age of
ninety- seven, and it was one of the rare pleasures of his childhood to
hear her tell the wonderful tales of the Revolution, and above all the
story of the invasion. She said that when the soldiers were approach-
ing her home she took her children and fled to the woods at the west.
They had to get over the bars of a fence, and in this act they were dis-
covered by the soldiers, who fired upon them without effect. The
fugitives lay flat on the ground for some time, and then ran through the
woods to Smith Mills, passing through the small- pox hospital grounds,
a piece of cleared land formerly a wheat field, and now covered by the
southerly portion of Oak Grove cemetery. When the burial-ground
was graded the cellar of the hospital was to be seen. On, over these
grounds, sped the refugees, hiding themselves as much as possible under
the thick foliage, to Haskin's Corner, now the termination of Rock-
dale avenue on the Hathaway road ; thence they wandered to Smith
Mills. They arrived at the house of a friend, Mrs. Mott, at midnight,
and caused great alarm when they clamored for shelter, the people sup-

AJV INDIAN PUDDING CATASTROPHE. 121

posing they were enemies. " The Regulars are here ! The Regulars
are here ! " was the cry raised by Mrs. Mott to her daughter, who was
in a distant part of the house. With a grim satisfaction the heroic
grandmother shouted in tones that were clearly heard by the inmates,
" We are regular enough after this journey through the woods, and the
distance we have travelled makes us perfectly harmless." Then it was
that they were recognized and received with great jo}'.

The soldiers took possession of the house from which Ihe brave
mother had fled, destroyedthe furniture, beds and bedding, threw the
crockery, glassware and light articles into the well, which was then lo-
cated on the west side of County street.

Mr. Kempton's grandmother related an incident which confirms the
account of the action of Hayden and Potter alluded to above. She said
that two or three men went into the woods north of the old house and
fired into the soldiers as they passed, killing two and wounding others.
These men heard the shout, " Run, soldiers, run, the woods are full of
men ! " and th'ey made double-quick time toward the Head- of- the- River.
The family in a day or two returned to the house.

It has already been said that a company of artillery had been sta-
tioned here for general defence. It consisted of eighty men under the
Ciiarge of Capt. James Gushing and Lieuts. Joseph Bell, William Gor-
don, and James Metcalf. Several days before the invasion they had
been called to Rowland's Ferry, to take part in what is known as the
battle of Rhode Island. It happened that on the very day when the
British made their landing at Glark's Gove, a part of this company, with
one gun, under charge of Lieuts. Gordon and Metcalf, had returned to
the town and were in charge when the alarm was given. There is a
well established tradition that Lieut. Gordon, while on the watch for
the enemy, was attracted into the house of Caleb Russell, below which
he had been reconnoitering. The attraction was a strong one to a hun-
gry soldier; for it was nothing less than a luscious repast of hot Indian
pudding, served in a capacious pewter platter. Now, either he had come
too late or the enemy had appeared too early, for the lieutenant had
no more than made himself comfortable and was in the act of taking a
liberal slice from the platter, when the alarm was sounded. The gal-
lant lieutenant forgot his empty stomach and the delicious feast before

1 2 2 HIS! ORY OF yE W BEDFORD.

him, and quickly took his departure. But misfortunes never come sin-
gly. Gordon found himself a prisoner, the first captured by the British
army. What a thrill of satisfaction must have been felt by the conquer-
ing foe, and what pride must have swelled the breast of General Grey,
to know that his soldiers had at the very outset captured one- half of the
officers of the defensive force ! If such satisfaction was felt by the in-
vaders, it was of short duration, for soon after his capture the brave
lieutenant, accepting his chance and seizing a cape from one of the
guards, lea[)ed a wall, fled to the woods, and soon joined his com-
mand.

As the enemy advanced, this detachment of Yankee soldiers with
their one piece of artillery pluckily did their best as they steadily re-
treated. At the Head- of- the- River Lieutenant Metcalf was mortally
wounded. The artillery officers were quartered with Mrs. Deborah
Doubleday, who kept a hotel in the building now occupied by law offices.
No. 30 North Water street. It was then owned by Seth Russell. John
Gilbert in his account says that after Metcalf was wounded he was
brought to this house, where he saw him the next day. Metcalf died
in three days, and was buried with military honors in the old cemetery
at Acushnet.

Lieutenant Gordon held several commissions in military hfe, and was
appointed b\- John Hancock as commander of a company of maltrosses
(artiller\) that was at other times commanded by Capt. Amos Lincoln,
and by that famous mechanic, Paul Revere. Gordon was a highly re-
spected citizen and lived to an advanced age.

The road to the Head-of-the- River, known to the present generation
as Acushnet avenue, was the way of escape for man\' of the fleeing in-
habitants, and the thickets by the wayside were utilized for secreting
many of their worldly goods. On the east side of this road is the
cottage with its numerous additions, owned b}' Mr. Willard Nye, jr.'

' >Ir. Nye has in his possession probably the most valuable memento of the invasion. It has
been in the Tallman family for several generations, and was given to him by Mrs. Betsey M. Nye,
a relative. It is a belt ornament that undoubtedly belonged to John Dodge, whose name was en-
graved upon it, and who was one of the soldiers who no doubt visited the place on that memorable
Saturday night. It is about eight inches long and consists of a metal circle six inches in diameter,
wiih a half globe in the center. Linked to the surrounding circle on the surface of the ball, in bold
outline, is the figure 17. Attached to the outer circle is the British crown. This ornament was found
in the peach orchard. Mr. Nye, appreciating its possible historic value, sent a photograph of it to
Washington, and the following reply to his communication will explain itself:

A TORY'S FAMILY.

In the days of the Revolution it was the propert}- of Timothy Tailnian,
who lived here with his three brothers, Seth, William and Elkanah.
When the invasion took place these grounds were used by their friends
as a place of deposit for their household treasures ; and so it happened
that the peach orchard then growing at the south of the house, and be-
tween that and the running brook, was covered with a promiscuous
variety of furniture, beds and bedding.

Among the citizens of Bedford who did not sympathize with the
American cause was David Hathaway. Early in the war he espoused the
Tory cause, and in January, 1777, left the States and took up his resi-
dence in Nova Scotia, where he staid six \'ears. Before leaving this
vicinity he placed his family in his country residence, the homestead
just north of Riverview Park, near where is now located the house of
Thomas Nash. This gentleman says that the homestead was purchased
of Thomas Hathaway by his grandfather, Simeon Nash, and stood upon
the spot perhaps a few feet to
the east of his present dwelling.
The old well is still in exist-
ence, under his porch, and fur-
nishes a never-failing supply
of excellent water. Here Mrs.
Hathaway lived and devoted
herself to the instruction of her
children. Thomas, the oldest

<4^

United States National Museum, )
under the Direction of the )■

Smithsonian Institution, Washington,)
April asd, 1887.
Mr. Willard Nye, New Bedford, Mass.

Dear Sir — Prof . Baird has handed me
your letter of April 10, with photograph,
and asked me to give you the information
you desire. I have had the photograph
examined, and it proves to be that of a
plate for belts (and also on cartridge
boxes) worn by the British infantry about
1776, and was generally silver plated.
Should you desire any further informa-
tion, I would refer you to Raike's History
of Honorable Artillery Company of Lon-
don.

Yours Respectfully,
G. Brown Goode,
Assistant Secretary Smithsonian In-
stitution, in charge of the United
States National Museum.

124 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

child, was fourteen years of age when the invasion took place. On that
eventful evening Mrs. Hathaway, with her children, was standing in
the doorway of her house watching the flames that rose from the burn-
ing town. Along the road people were passing to and fro, many of
them with their goods. They cheered her with promises of assistance.
About 8 o'clock three horsemen rode furiously by, warning the dwellers
of the near approach of the enemy. When they appeared, Mrs. Hath-
away sent her boy Thomas, with two other boys, into the woods for
safety. There he climbed a tree and watched the depredations of the
British along the road as they passed. The record says that a British
officer entered the house of Mrs. Hathaway and demanded to know the
whereabouts of her husband. He would not believe her statement of
his being in Nova Scotia, and, taking her by the shoulders, shook her,
giving her a fright from which she never recovered. From that time her
health failed, and she died in 1783, soon after the return of her husband
to his family.

It is not probable that the terror-stricken people were able to save
all their property from destruction. Many were obliged to carry their
goods themselves, while their more fortunate neighbors who owned
horses utilized them in conveying their treasures to the woods. Some
of these, even, failed in getting free from the clutches of the enemy.
History records the fact that William Tobey, afterward postmaster of
the town, was the happy possessor of a yoke of oxen, and was on his
way to the woods when the advancing soldiery came uncomfortably
near — so near as to threaten his capture. Mr. Tobey finally abandoned
his loaded wagon and with his oxen gained the woods, leaving his
worldly possessions an easy prey to the British.

Mrs. Susan Brightman, whose husband was at sea, was compelled to
flee with her family of four children up the country road, and beyond
the village at the Head- of- the -River. She turned into a pasture and
found shelter in a shed used for herding sheep. There she waited with
fear and trembling while the troops passed by on the main road, near
enough for the refugees to hear the strains of music from the regimental
bands. On her way back to her house, located on the west side of
Water street, between Elm and Middle, she met a citizen who wasdeemed

C?C,.yl^TXuAy(>t^C^C^t'i^^C^'

THE MOVEMENT UPON FAIRHAVEN. 125

rich, who said to her, " Mrs. Brightman, my property is all destroyed,
and 1 am now as poor as you are." '

About an eighth of a mile above the Acushnet bridge, and close to
the river, stands to-day a gambrel-roofed house, in fair preservation,
that was the home of one of the chief men of the village in Rev-
olutionary times. Mention has previously been made of the eminent
pastor of Acushnet Church, Dr. Samuel West, and of his distinguished
services to the country. It is a fair presumption that Dr. Tobey, who
lived in the house spoken of, was alike useful in his profession. A tra-
dition is given by G. H. Taber, that a company of British soldiers, on
their way around the river, made a social call at Dr. Tobey's residence.
Not finding the family at home they proceeded to make themselves
comfortable. It happened that the oven in the cellar was piping hot
and doing good service in cooking the bread, and that most famous of all
New England dishes, pork and beans. The soldiers invited themselves
to the banquet in the absence of the host, and " licked the platter clean."
Though the doctor lost his Sunday morning breakfast, he had the good
luck to save many of his valuables and clothing, for they happened to
be in a room at the head of the cellar stairs, and when his uninvited
guests opened the door to go down to the feast the entrance to this
room, where the family treasures were, was completely hidden and the
soldiers departed none the wiser.

It is said that there gathered on Tarkiln hill a large throng of people
who had fled from their homes. When the British troops turned east-
ward at Lund's corner they descried them in the moonlight, and sup-
posing them to be a body of minute men, did not deem it prudent to
send a detachment to attack them.

Having accomplished their dire revenge upon the helpless people of
Acushnet the British proceeded down the road to Fairhaven. The first
house destroyed was that belonging to Col. Edward Pope on the west
side of the road, on the exact spot now occupied by the dwelling once

I One of the Brightman children, Phebe, was twelve years old at the time of the invasion. She
afterwards married Capt. William Header, jr., who was one of the original members of the Star in '
the East Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons. They lived in the house on Acushnet avenue, south
of Spring street, now occupied by Dr. Flagg It was here that Mrs. Telson B. Denham heard Mrs.
Meader relate the above story. One of her grandmothers, Charity Slocum, was a prominent
worker in the relief society that did so much noble service for the boys in blue during the Civil

126 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

owned by David Russell, and now the property of Thomas H. Knowles,
of this city. Colonel and Judge Pope was a prominent citizen, and it
is a fair inference to suppose that it was because of his loyalty to the
cause that his property was destroyed. The enemy were well posted
as to who were fit subjects for their wrath, for they had for guide that
distinguished Quaker Tory and traitor, Eldad Tupper. The next house
that received the attention of the enemy was one on the east side of
the road, the home of Stephen Hathaway. The host and hostess, both
members of the Society of Friends, aware of the approach of the en-
emy, had sent their children into the woods and had deposited their
silver spoons and valuables in the well, which is still in use. The en-
emy must have been informed that Mr. Hathaway was in good circum-
stances, for the advance soldiery made a vigorous demand for money.
Their request not being granted they proceeded without formality to
search the house. Here was an opportunity to carry out again the spirit
of General Grey's orders, and the bayonet came into use. It is not
known whether they obtained the desired treasure, but the old family
desk, now in the possession of Humphrey N. Swift, bears the marks of
the bayonet made when the noble sons of Briton tried to pry it open.
The soldiers carried off a number of things belonging to Mrs. Hatha-
way. While they were engaged in their operations the commander-in-
chief rode into the yard. Mrs. Hathaway complained to the general
that the soldiers were troublesome. He replied that it was not his in-
tention to have any of the Society of Friends disturbed, and at once
ordered a guard for their protection. For this gracious favor she treated
the officers to a liberal lunch of milk, bread, and cheese.

Notwithstanding the assertion made by General Grey that the Friends
were to be free from annoyance, the truth remains that many of them
did receive personal abuse. Among them was Jethro, the father of
Stephen Hathaway. The soldiers removed his broad-brimmed hat and
amused themselves by tossing it in the air. When they had exhausted this
highly dignified sport, they returned it to the old gentleman, probably
in a battered condition.

Moving southward, the troops called at the house of Thomas Hath-
away, now known as the Laura Keen farm, on the west side of the road.
Jonathan Kempton, a nephew and ward, happened to be on Sconticut

DOINGS OF THE INVADERS. 127

Neck when the troops were coming through Acushnet village. He re-
turned in great haste, and had only time to pack the silver plate and
other articles in a small trunk, when he entered into an interesting con-
versation with the advance guard, who met him as he was passing out
of the front door. They kindly relieved him of further care of the
trunk, and invited him to accompany them on board the fleet. Af-
ter setting fire to some bedding in an upper story, and closing the
doors, they departed from the house. Mr. Kempton must have been a
shrewd young man and of an original turn of mind, for among his ex-
pedients to save his clothing he had put on two pairs of trousers. This
proved to be a most fortunate circumstance, for while walking with his
guard down the lane leading to the main road, he made use of his op-
portunity and bribed him to let him go, offering as a reward the extra
pair of trousers. The guard was aware of his having them, for the fact
was revealed when, becoming curious as to the time of night, he had
forcibly relieved Kempton of his watch. The traitor guard consented
to the proposition, took the trousers, and Kempton took to his heels.
It is said that the soldier, in order to deceive his commanding ofificer,
fired a shot at the retreating prisoner. It failed to hit him and lodged
in a cherry tree. Mr. Kempton reached the house in time to extin-
guish the fire and thus saved the homestead.

Richard Delano, who lived a short distance east of the village, re-
moved some of his household effects, at the approach of the enemy.
His loaded wagon, in charge of a lad named Look, was met on the road
to the woods by a British soldier, who, saluting the boy with a blow
mounted the wagon and ordered the lad to drive on. When they
reached the house of Mr. Alden they found it in possession of the en-
emy, and the soldier entered. The lad quickly made his escape, and re-
turning home, told his adventure to Mr. Delano. The family fled, and
on their return, found that their liome had been invaded by the enemy,
and their furniture destroj'ed. The house, built by Mr. Delano in
1773, is still standing ; and over a closet door in the front entry may
be seen the marks made with a bayonet in opening it, — another evi-
dence that General Grey's orders to use the bayonet were well ob-
served.

HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

CHAPTER IX.

THE BRITISH INVASION CONTINUED.

Further Destruction — The Traitor Tupper — A Famous Bible — Suffering and
Want that Followed the Invasion — Wretched Condition of the Township after the
Raid.

AFTER the British troops had visited the house of Thomas Hatha-
way, they proceeded southward and burned a store on the east
side of the road, filled with West India goods, belonging to Obed Hath-
away. Just south of the Woodside Cemetery the main road branches
off to the east and continues down through the village of Fairhaven. In
Revolutionary days this was the only thoroughfare that led to Sconticut
Neck and the southern part of the village. It was on the gentle elevation
at the very entrance of this back road that the house of John Cook was
situated, to which allusion has been made. This historic spot is made
still more interesting by the fact that here, a century later, stood a dwell-
ing house said to have been built upon the same cellar walls as the first.
It was the home of Bartholomew West and his two sons, William and
Edward, the domestic affairs being managed by Hannah Sogg. At the
time of the invasion the old man was feeble and helpless and unable to
leave his bed, and thus the British soldiers found him. His son Will-
iam was at the village with the ox team, and when he returned the
house was in flames. On entering the dwelling the soldiers treated the
inmates with great rudeness, because of the patriotism of the old man,
who was an enthusiastic supporter of the American cause. No doubt
faithful Eldad Tupper had given them correct information as to his
position. While looting the house they informed the Wests that they
intended to burn it and refused the request of Miss Sogg to remove the
old man to a place of safety. She, like a true heroine, carried him out
herself and placed him on a feather bed against a wall in the orchard.
The house was burned to the ground, and the troops departed to new
fields A shed that escaped the flames was used for shelter by the
family and was afterward enlarged and remained the old man's home
until his death.

A FAMOUS BIBLE. 129

Among the many articles carried away from this house by the sol-
diers was a copy of the Bible which was destined to have a history. It
is to this day in possession of the Forty-sixth Regiment, now known
as the Duke of Cornwall's Regiment, Light Infantry, Colonel Grieve
commander, and now stationed at Plymouth, England. When the regi-
ment was stationed at Gibraltar, the chaplain. Rev. Mr. Patterson, cop-
ied the many entries from the book, and from him have been obtained
these facts. One of the entries that bears a special local interest is the
following :

" In the year 1746-47, a hard winter, the horses began to pass over the river the
20th of December, as I was informed by WilHam Peckham and his wife, and to my
knowledge continued to pass with horses and oxen on the river from Joseph Russell's
to the head of Acoshamet River until ye 11th of March, ye snow being then ui ye
woods knee deep upon a level. Adjudged by credible persons further it is credibly
reported by them yt say they keep account yt there was 30 snows this winter and they
continued riding until 23d day of March. Benj. Akin rid over against his father Ta-
bers, viz. Jacob Tabers, and on the 23d day in the morning it began to snow and con-
tinued to snow for forty-eight hours, it wafting as the fall got to a great depth and

they could now journey on the ice from Capt. to Taber's side until ye 27th of

March."

The old Bible also contains several family records and other notes,
among them the following :

"Mother Mercy West, deceased November 21, 1733, in ye 77 year of her age, who
was ye daughter of John Cook, ye first ordained minister of Dartmouth."

This entry is written on the back of the title page. On the back of
the last page of the Apocrypha is the following :

"Stephen West deceast July 7, 1769, in the 7.oth year of his age."
On still another page is the following :

" George Hathaway, son of Jethro Hathaway, deceast on the 7th day of November,
1746, in ye .5th month of his age.

" Mathew West, son of Samuel West, deceast Feb. the 17th, 1753, New Style, in the
24th month of his age."

" Father Samuel Jenney, deceast April ye 3d, 1716, in the 58th year of his age."

"Our mother, Hannah Jenney, deceast September 2d, 1749, 80 years of age."

The family traditions regarding this famous Bible have been well
preserved, for down through the successive generations the story has
been told that the old man Bartholomew held this book in great veii-
17

THE WASHIXi.iTON' .MA-

5LE— ;;ack of Title-?age.

132

HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

eiation, and to his death spoke with regret of its loss. He supposed
that it was burned with the other household goods ; and so during the
long century intervening, the family of Wests have had no knowledge
of its existence until the development of events spoken of in this article.
" The Second Battalion, Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry, which has
so recently left Pembroke Dock, has in its possession a Bible on which
it is stated Washington took one of the degrees of Masonry. This corps
was originally numbered the Fifty-seventh, and was raised in 1741.
Six or seven year's later, by the disbandment of eleven regiments, it
became the Forty-sixth Foot, by which name it was known until 188 1,
when it received its present territorial designation. In 1752, when
quartered in Ireland, a Masonic charter was obtained from the Grand
Lodge of that country. This regimental lodge was numbered ' 227,'
and was also known as the Lodge of Social and Military Virtue, its
motto being ' Libens Solvit Merito Votum.' Both name and motto, it
is to be remarked, have the same initials, ' L. S. M. V.' In 1757 the
regiment embarked for America, where it was quartered for ten years
in Nova Scotia, and in 1767 returned to Ireland. In 1776 the Forty-
sixth again crossed the Atlantic, and was landed on the coast of North
Carolina. In 1778, along with other regiments, it proceeded on an ex-
pedition to Massachusetts, as the privateers belonging to New Bedford
had inflicted much damage on British shipping, and it was resolved to
put a stop to such depredations. On the evening of September 5, 1778,
the British fleet, with the four regiments of infantry on board, appeared
unexpectedly at New Bedford. The force was landed almost without
opposition, and passing through the little town, the troops entirely de-
stroyed it, as well as some seventj' privateers, whalers and other ships.
Amongst the plunder carried off on this occasion was the family Bible
of the Wests, whose descendants are still in the neighborhood of the
now flourishing city of New Bedford. We learn from the title page
that the volume was printed ' in London by the assigns of Thomas
Newcombe and Henry Hills, deceas'd, printers to the Queen's Most
E.xcellent Majesty, in the year 17 12.' The first record is written on
the back of the title page, and contains entries of the deaths of mother
Mercy West, who died November 21, 1733, aged seventy- seven, and of
father Stephen West, aged ninet)'-four, who died August 12, 1748, and

'^aB

Grenadier -iGTH Foot— Temp. George III.

REV. PATTERSON'S RELATION.

133

the births of eight of their descendants between the years 1720 and
1737. The second entry is on the last page of the Prophets, and con-
tains a de. cription of the severe winter weatiier experienced by the
dwellers on the banks of the Acushnet River on which New Bedford is
built, in the year 1746-47.

" This is followed by entries relating to the births of the children of
Reuben Packhom, and Petience Hatherley, between the years 1731—34.
The third entry is on the last page of the Apocrypha, and registers the
death of a Stephen West who died in 1769, aged seventy- five years.
The fourth records the deaths of two Thomas Summertohs who died,
one in 1736, aged twenty-six years, and the other in 1740, aged seven
months. These entries are on a page containing the Thirty- nine Arti-
cles. The last register is on the same page as the ' Table of Kindred,'
and records the deaths of George Hathway, Mathew West, father Sam-
uel Jenney and our mother Hannah Jenney. It is to be noted that the
latest entry appears to be that of the death of Stephen West on July 7,
1769, about eight years before the book fell into the hands of the Brit-
ish. It is stated that the volume was retaken by the Americans, but for
some reason or other was returned to the Forty- sixth before the corps
sailed for England in 1782.

"After having been quartered in Ireland for several years, the Forty-
sixth proceeded to Gibraltar in 1792 ; thence to the West Indies in
1794, and back to England in 1796, where it remained until 1804, when
it proceeded to garrison the Island of Dominica, which was shortlj' after
attacked by an overwhelming French force, under General La Grange.
The British commander, General Prevost, was obliged to evacuate the
city of Rosseau, which fell into the hands of the enemy. The Bible in
question, along with all the furniture and regalia of the lodge, had to be
abandoned, but was afterwards restored to the regiment under a flag of
truce, as is set forth on a silver plate attached to the walnut case, with
glass lid, in which it is kept in the ante-room of the officers' mess, the
inscription on which reads as follows : —

ON THIS SACRED VOLUME
WASHINGTON RECEIVED A DEGREE OF MASONRY

IT WAS TWICE TAKEN BY THE ENEMY

AND BOTH TIMES RETURNED TO THE REGIMENT

V/ITH ALL THE HONORS OP WAR

134 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

" It followed the fortunes of the corps afterwards to England, Jersey,
the Isle of Wight, New South Wales and India.

" Here the Masonic Lodge, which appears to have been all along the
custodian of the sacred volume, ceased working in the year 1827. The
Bible and jewels were brought to England along with the regiment in
1833, when the lodge was revived under the mastership of Colonel W.
Lacy, who was followed in the chair by Colonel Catly.

"About a dozen years ago, when the regiment was quartered in Ber-
muda, the case was opened to display the book to some guests, when
unfortunately a page which contained the signature of General Washing-
ton mysteriously disappeared. Margoliouth, a distinguished Masonic
authority, gives it as his opinion, that although there is no written testi-
mony to the effect that the Father of his Country was obligated on this
book, yet as the statement has been handed down from Mason to Mason,
there is little doubt that such is the case. It may be mentioned that
Lodge No. 4, in Fredericksburgh, is in possession of a Bible on which
Washington is stated to have taken at least one degree, and there is be-
sides this another volume, which was carried in a Masonic procession
in Washington, D. C, on February 22, 1885, which lays claim to a
similar honor.

" The Bible, which is about ten by twelve inches, is handsomely bound
in purplish brown morocco, covers and back, being richly stamped in
gold with Masonic emblems, the title and motto of the lodge, the regi-
mental number, etc., etc. — Yours, etc.,

"December 15, 1891. R. STEWART PATTERSON." 1

1 The task of securing photographs of this Bible has been one of much difficulty ; and only for
the interested co-operation of Rev R. Stewart Patterson could it ever have been accomplished.
My last letter to him, urgently requesting him to make another effort to secure the pictures,
reached him only twenty-four hours before the departure of the regiment for new quarters. But
the Bible was fortunately not yet packed for the journey. Mr. Patterson writes : " The following
morning, immediately on my return to Pembroke Dock, I went to the barracks and saw Captain
Harvey, the mess president. He told me that he had directed that the book should be packed, and
that although several photographers and others had requested that they should be permitted to
take photos of the volume, the colonel and officers had always declined, as they did not wish the
book to be taken out of barracks, for on one occasion, when in Bermuda, about a dozen years ago,
the page containing Washington's signature had been abstracted. However, as a personal favor
they would let me have the photo provided it was done at once and in barracks. I had mj' man
ready with his camera, and the Bible being handed over to the care of a subaltern of the regiment,
it was taken down to the station hospital and photographed." It may be added that branches of
the West family came from Virginia and other points south of New York at an early day. This
fact, together with the signature of Washington in the book, is regarded as evidence that the great
commander received a degree of Masonry over its sacred pages. It is preserved with the most
jealous care by the regiment now possessing it, and accompanies them wherever they may be sent.
It has been a rare privilege to connect it intimately with the history of New Bedford.

THE ENEMY'S EIERY PROGRESS.

135

Still pursuing a southern course through Fairhaven, the invaders next
destroyed a store situated directly across the road from the present resi-
dence of Edward A. Dana. The building was filled with West India
goods. Close by the present residence of George H. Taber was a
school-house that was next burned by the invaders. Mr. Taber states
that his grandfather, Bartholomew Taber, whose house was a short dis-
tance northward, heard an officer give the command, "give me a
match," and in a few minutes the school-house was wrapped in flames.

Down the road (now Adams street) they pushed on, and soon Zeu-
riah Wood's house was set on fire. The family had fled to the woods
for safety, and when they returned their dwelling was in ruins. A one-
story house was afterward erected on the same spot, to which a second
story was added in 1807; and in 1838 an addition was built on the
north side. The house is still standing and is occupied by descendants
of the family.

On the cast side of the Sconticut Neck road, about a mile from the en-
trance of the Mattapoisett thoroughfare, is located one of the most ancient
and interesting houses now standing, and one of the very few that date
back to the times of which we are writing. It is very much dilapidated and
quite dependent for support upon the massive floor timbers and the im-
mense stone chimney that occupies the center of the structure. The
latter is a curious specimen of th6 chimney building of our forefathers^
and stands after all the years as perfect as when first erected. The
shell mortar with which it was cemented holds it with a grip of iron.
The chimney is nine feet square at the base and about five at the top,
which is finished with imposing cap-stones. Spacious fire-places open
on the north and east sides, and the ovens on all sides seem sufficient to
cook provision for a small army. In Revolutionary days this house
was the home of John West, whose son-in-law, Achus Sisson, a rabid
Tory, was obliged to leave here and take up his residence in the Brit-
ish provinces until after the war closed. The elder West provided in
his will an ample maintenance for his daughter, but excluded the Tory
from any benefit under it. Sisson eventually returned to Fairhaven,
and George H. Taber says he remembers him as a gray-haired old man,
who taught school in the academy for a time. The latter building is still
standing and is owned by the heirs of the late John A. Hawes. Mr.

136 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

West left this and other property to the New Bedford Monthly Meet-
ing of Friends for the benefit of the industrious poor of the township.

This ancient house was the last one visited by the British soldiers
during the invasion. They here very properly gave an exhibition of
the bayonet exercise so rigidly insisted upon by Sir Charles Grey — they
killed a pig.

About a mile below, on the western shore, was the place of embark-
ation, on land now owned by Daniel W. Deane. Here the British army
encamped until Monday morning. The official dispatches of General Grey
state that all were re- embarked on Sunday, September 6, but they did not
set sail until Monday, as the wind was southwest and light. Sixteen pris-
oners were taken on board to exchange for the same number of British
soldiers. Among these was one of the Delano family, who was treated
with great kindness. He spoke of General Grey as an old man, but
hale, active, and of engaging manners. The general said in his dis-
patches :

" The wind did not admit of any further movements of the fleet on the 6th and 7th
than VianliiiLj a liltle distance from the shore. Advantage was taken of this circum-
stance to liiini a large privateer ship on the stocks, and to send a small armament of
boats, with two galleys, to destroy two or three vessels, which, being in the stream, the
troops had not been able to set fire to."

This was the expedition that came up the river on Sunday evening,
September 6. The enemy had been keenly watched and their land-
ing north of Fort Phcenix was no surprise, for the minute men had
been gathering from the surrounding towns during the Sabbath, and
there must have been a force of several hundred, judging from pay-
rolls that are in existence. The colonel in command of this force is
described as a feeble old man, unequal to the emergency at hand. He
announced to the militia that it would be useless to make any defence
of the village. This had a paralyzing effect upon the soldiers, and the
whole town of Fairhaven would have been left to the ravages of the
British but for the timely and heroic action of Maj. Israel Fearing, of
VVareham. He gathered around him a large number of volunteers and
placed them in good position to meet the enemy, who were seen ap-
proaching up the bay. The landing was made about 8 o'clock in the
evening, and the militia, whose presence was unknown to the British,

RELIEF FOR SUFFERERS. 137

were secreted in position to do effective service. But the action of
some of their officers and the firing of several buildings by the British
as they advanced towards the point where the militia were posted de-
moralized the latter and they would have fled ignoniiniously but for the
determined action of Major Fearing. He placed himself in the rear
and declared he would shoot every man who attempted to desert.
Making a thrilling appeal to their manhood he changed their fright to
something akin to courage, and under his inspiring command the sol-
diers presented a bold front to the enemy, now at close quarters. At
the signal a tremendous volley was poured into the British ranks. The
tide of victory was turned and the enemy fled in disorder, took to their
boats, and made good time to the ships in the lower harbor. On Mon-
day the British fleet sailed away to Martha's Vineyard and Falmouth',
where many American vessels were destroyed and money and cattle
taken.

Padanaram did not escape the attention of the British, for on Sundaj'
morning barges loaded with soldiers were sent to that village and sev-
eral houses were burned. Most of them belonged to the Aikin family,
who were enthusiastic supporters of the American cause, and had been
instrumental in expelling Richard Shearman, Eldad Tupper, and Will-
iam Castle from the vicinity. Tradition says that it was information
from these men that caused the property of the Aikins to receive the
special attention of the enemy. The first two named are credited with
acting as pilots to the squadron.

The suffering and want that followed in the footsteps of this disas-
trous event are indicated by the action of the General Court in 1780.
An appropriation of ^1,200 was made for the relief of the sufferers.'
Following is a list of persons to whom the selectmen allowed portions
of the i;'i,200, allowed to the sufferers by the enemy September 5,
1778, at Bedford, and paid by Col. Thomas Kempton : Sylvanus Allen,
Sylvanus Allen, jr., Walla Adarns, James Akin, Betsey Cathel, widow ;
Uriah Dunham, John Gerrish, Samuel Hawes, Sarah Kempton, widow ;
Lemuel Mendal, Anna Mot, Stephen Merrihew, Mary Negus, Shoebal
Peas, Joseph Rotch, Abigail Samson, Reliami Summerton, Geoigc
Whippe, Timothy Ingraham, John Wait, Sarah Shearman, Seth Reed,
Oliver Price, Benjamin Taber, Experience Tripp, George Wrightington,

138 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Griffin Barney, Eleazer Hathaway, Micha Hathaway, Gamaliel Briant,
Thomas Boland, Freeman Taber, Ephraim Annibal, Elihu Akin, James
Chandler, Charles Church, Sole Cushman, Venture Child, Joshua
Doune, Martha Hamblin.

One of the most interesting documents found in connection with this
event is the detailed statement of Joseph Tripp, who was evidently a
well-to-do citizen, of articles lost and damaged by the enemy. Besides
its interest in relation to the invasion, it also gives an idea of what con-
stituted the outfit of a household at that time. It is as follows :

"Memorandum of articles lost and damages sustained b}' the enemy on tlieir expedi-
tion to Dartmouth, September, 1778, viz. :.

£ s. D.

• 1 Sillv Damask gound . . . 32

2 Silk Lute String gounds, 58 U

1 pergan do . . 12

1 Chime do. 15

ILinnen do 9

1 Red Bred Cloth Cloak, . ■ . ... 9 10

1 Pair Stays, 6 12

1 Holland Handkerchief, 10

1 Lawn do. 15

1 Barcelona do 18

3 Holland aprons, 6 15

Underlining & 1 pair Silk Mitts, GOO

1 Superfine Broade Cloth Coat, 36

1 Superfine Broade Cloth Jacket, 15

1 Silk Damask Jacket. 15

1 fustin Coat & 1 pair Linning Bretches, .... 280

1 Pair Lether Bretches, 12

1 Great Coat and a par Silk Stockings, 18

1 Par Cotton Stockings & a par Gloves, 4 116

1 Cotton Coverlid, 12

1 Complete Set Dammask Curtins, Except Valants, . . . 00

1 Large Dammask Table Cloth, 9.00

3 Large Dammask Napkings, 4 10

1 Large Diaper Table Cloth, . . . • . . . . 3 12

4 Diaper Napkings, 3

■2 Small Diaper Table Cloths, 4 10

\ yard Spring Satting and 1 yard Tammey, . . . 3 12 6

2^ yards worsted Cloth, 1 10

.3 Bolster Cases, 3 12

18 Table Knives & 12 forks, 6

/^^^ f^

<^-H.iA-(/^4^.y^h^-^^<^ ^^

CRUSHED CONDITION OF THE TOWN. 139

1 Hard Mettle Tea pot & 1 Earthen do., 2 8

18 Delf ware plates, 5 8

1 Coffee Pot & Large China Cream pot, 1 10

2 Earthen Milk pots, 12

2 China Tea Cups & Saucers, ... ... 18

5 Cups & 5 Cancers Yello-sv ware 16

1 Copper Sauce pan & 1 par Snuffers, 110

1 Dubble flint Vinegar Crute 10

5 Wine Glasses, 110

1 Shoe Brush & 1 Buckle, .... . . 15

1 par Wool Cards & 2 yards Check Linning, . . . 3 10

1 Serenet Bunnett, . 100

2 Linning Skirts, 400

1 Tamey Skirt, 400

2 Stripe Cotton Skirts, 2 Check do. 6

1 White Skirt and par Silver Knee Buckles, .... 4100

1 Stone Ring and par Jewil Drops 7 10

1 Small trunk with papers, ....... 250

3 flannel Sheets, 6

3 cotton do., and 5 Pillow cases 18

Damage Red Cedar Desk, 10

1 pistol and a glass tankard, 3 18

Schooner Burnt damage, 100

£589 6
Errors excepted.
A case Razors and papers and sundry other articles, . 10 14

£600
Bristol, ss., Jan. 5th, 1779.

Then personally appeared Joseph Tripp and made oath to the truth of the aliove acct
before me. Edw. Pope, Ju!>t. Peace."

Let US now for a moment contemplate the condition of the township
after the English had left it. Warehouses, shipyards, ropewalks, and
stores, that had given employment to the inhabitants ; dwellings and
barns, the property of loyal citizens who had in their love for liberty
dared to avow themselves open enemies of the British crown ; the fleet
of seventy ships, numbering nearly as many as to-day lie at our
wharves, most of them creations of the skill of Dartmouth citizens, all
these in one single night were offered up in flame and smoke, Dart-
mouth's contribution to the price paid for American independence
What hopeless despair must have taken possession of the people, as

I40 HISTORY OF A'£IV BEDFORD.

they began to understand the extent of the disaster ! When they saw
the wrecks of the splendid fleet that represented the business enterprise
of the town, lining the shores on both side of the river, deep must have
been their sorrow ; for all knew that the community was literally crushed
out, and with it, for a time, the courage and energy of the men who had
been the leaders in its prosperity.

Fort Phcenix, destroyed by the British troops, must have been re-
built soon after the invasion. This is indicated by the following ex-
tract from a letter written by Jabez Delano to William H. Waterman,
April 17, 1874. In response to inquiries regarding the fortification, he
says:

'■ Isaac Drew, the fatlier of the late Joshua Drew, related in my hearing the follow-
ing; ' I had occasion to go to Fort Phcenix on the evening following the dark day,
(which occurred May 19, 1780). The night was as much darker than ordinary as the
day had been. I could not see my hand before me, nor discern anything whatever. I
found the fort through my perfect familiarity with the road. It was then garrisoned
by 100 Continentals.' "

We find in the same letter the following interesting statement :
" Royal Hathaway stated that Benjamin Dellingham was captain and his father,
Elezer Hathaway, was lieutenant of the company that built Fort Pha?nix, and his im-
pressions were that it was begun previous to the battle of Bunker Hill, June 17, 1775,
and that it was about two years in building."

Mr. Hathaway also stated that there were eight companies of sol-
diers from the township of Dartmouth, and that his father succeeded
Captain Dellingham in command of one of them and was stationed at
the lort.

Judging by rolls that are still in existence, it is reasonably sure that
Dartmouth township furnished at least 500 men for the army during
the last great struggle for liberty. She must also have had a large
number of seamen in the naval service. Our township was in the front
rank of the battles fought by the colonies. There were Tories in Dart-
mouth, certainly, and so there were in Boston; indeed the aristocracy
of that town was never in full sympathy with the cause. New York
was a hot bed of Toryism, and the same may be said of Newport, Phil-
adelphia and Baltimore. All over the land there were men who never
lost their love for the home government, and it would have been
strange if Dartmouth did not have her proportion of such. It is a

REVIVAL OF BUSINESS. 141

grievous wrong, however, to class the Society of Friends with the To-
ries. Their non-resistance does not prove them traitors. Just so far
as their religious principles permitted, they were friendly to the Amer-
ican cause. They could not bear arms and at the same time be true to
the principles of their religious faith.

In closing this account of our local Revolutionary history, it is per-
haps proper to state that it has been compiled with all possible care,
from records that were very incomplete, and in many cases from the
reminiscences of aged people who are even now beyond the reach of
the living.

CHAPTER X.

FROM 1779 TO 1810.

Town Proceedings During and After the War — Prices of Provisions — The Qua-
kers in Relation to the War — Incorporation of the Town and First Officers — Divis-
ion of the Town — Opening of Streets — The Small-pox — Measures for Its Exter-
mination — The First Newspaper — Early Advertisements — Primitive Modes of
Travel —Difficulties of Early Maritime Operations — Public Events of the Period.

THERE seems to have been but little public business transacted by
the authorities of Dartmouth between the years 1776 and 1779,
excepting the regular election of officers; and possibly for one or more
years even this may have been omitted. Attached to the warrant call-
ing the town meeting for 1779 are the names of Aulden Spooner,
Thomas Kempton, Benjamin Russell, jr., and Job Almy as selectmen,
and as these were not the ones chosen in 1776, it would seem that there
must have been a town meeting in 1778. In 1779 the town chose Jon-
athan Taber, Nathan Richmond, Robert Earl, Jireh Willis, Gamaliel
Bryant, Obed Ney (Nye), John Taber, Paul Ingraham, Elihu Gififord,
Benjamin Babcock, Elisha Russell, Henry Soul and Stephen Davis a
committee of safety, correspondence and inspection. This committee
was empowered to furnish all the men called from the town for the de-

142 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

fense of the country. In 1777 the General Court passed the monopoly
act, intended to prevent monopoly and oppression. It authorized the
towns to fix certain prices on staple commodities, which prices could
not be exceeded by those having such goods for sale without breaking
the law and thus rendering themselves liable to arrest and their goods
to confiscation. In 1779 the selectmen of Dartmouth prepared such a
list. Some of the prices were as follows :

£ s. D.

Good merchantable imported wheat, per bushel, ... 7 G

Indian corn, per bushel, . . .... 040

Good fresh pork, well fatted, per pound, .... ij

Men's best shoes, made of good neats leather, per pair, . 8

Imported salt, per bushel, 10

Good West India rum, per gallon by the hogshead. . . 6 8

Good New England rum, per gallon, 3 10

Best Muscovado sugar, at the place where it is first landed, per lb. 8

Good English hay, per ton, 4 10

Horse-keeping with good English hay, per night, or 24 hours, 2

The best broadcloth manufactured in this town, per yard, . 14
Mowing and reaping and other labor, from 25th March to last

of September, per day, 3 6

Good coffee, per pound, ....... 014

DIET AT PUBLIC HOUSES.

For a dinner of boiled and roasted meats and sauce, equivalent, 14

A common dinner, ...... 010

A common supper and breakfast, each, . . . . 10

A night's lodging, 004

At the annual meeting in March, 1780, Robert Bennet 2d, William
White, Jirah Swift, jr., Thomas Kempton, and Thomas Crandon were
chosen a committee to supply the soldiers' families during the ensuing
year. It was voted at a town meeting held October 14, of the same year,
that 1,057 pounds and sixteen shillings, silver money, be raised by way
of tax on the inhabitants of the town by the 25th of December of that
year, " to be paid to the committee who shall be chosen for purchasing
the town's proportion of beef, sent for by the General Court to supply
the Continental army," and "the overplus of said sum (if any), when
said beef is paid for, to be paid into the town treasury."

The ship Bedford, Captain Moores, belonging to William Rotch, jr.,
who at this date lived in Nantucket, sailed for London with a car^o of

INCORPORATION OF THE TOWN.

143

oil in February, 1783. She arrived in the Downs on the day of the
signing of the treaty of peace, and was the first to display the Amer-
ican flag.'

At a monthly meeting of the Quakers of Dartmouth, held in 1783,
a petition was prepared and presented to the selectmen and other offi-
cers of Dartmouth, requesting that " no more publications of political
or military matters be set up or posted up on their meeting-houses."
Also that notices of marriages should not be posted upon their meeting-
houses. The petition states at length that the quarterly and yearly
meetings, to which the Quakers were subordinate, recommended that
all such publications were disagreeable to the society, and that all or
many of them were " such as their religious principles enjoin them to
have no concern with," etc.

The town of New Bedford was incorporated in 1787, and at the first
town meeting, held in the Congregational meeting-house, March 21,
completed an organization and elected officers as follows : Selectmen,
John West, Isaac Pope, William Tallman ; clerk and treasurer, John
Pickens ; assessors, Bartholomew Aiken, Joseph Taber, Thomas Kemp-
ton ; surveyors of lumber, Benjamin Taber, Benjamin Dillingham, Bar-
tholomew Aken,2 Jethro Allen; inspector offish, Feleg Huttleston;
constable and collector, northwest district, Gamaliel Bryant ; northeast
district, Samuel Bowerman ; southeast district, Joseph Damon ; south-
west district, Abishar Shearman ; Robert Bennit, sr., Paul Wing, Job
Jenne, Elisha Cushman, northeast district; Barnabas Russell, Caleb
Russell, sr., Jireh Willis, southwest district ; Samuel Hathaway, of Scon-
ticut, William Dexter, Joseph Damon, James Kempton, Benjamin
Church, Bartholomew Aiken, southeast district; John Chaffee, Chris-
topher Hammond, William White, William Andrews, northwest dis-

1 " The ship Bedford, Captain Moores, belonging to Massachusetts, arrived in the Downs on the 3d
of February, passed Gravesend on the 3d, and was reported at the Custom House on the 6th inst.
She was not allowed regular entry until some consultation had taken place between the commis-
sioners of the customs and the Lords of Council, on account of the many acts of Parliament in
force against the rebeh of America. She was loaded with 487 butts of whale oil, is American built,
manned wholly by American seamen, wears the rebel colors, and belongs to the Island of Nan-
tucket, in Massachusetts. This is the first vessel which has displayed the thirteen rebellious stripes,
of America in any British port. The vessel is at Horseledour, a little below the Tower, and is in
tended to return immediately to New-England."— £<2r«<ira"i History of Eng and.

2 The reader will notice that in many cases in this work names are spelled in more than one way.
Such is not the case, however, except in transcriptions from records, which it is considered advisa-
ble to take literally. In some few instances families have changed the spelling of their name.

144 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

trict ; wardens, Maj. George Claghorn, Capt. Benjamin Dillingham,
Isaac Drew, Amos Simmons ; tithingmen, Zadok Maxfield, William
Allen, Pardon Taber ; fence viewers, Samuel West, Silas Sweet, Ste-
phen Taber, Henry Jenne; cullers of staves, Daniel Ricketson, John
Shearman, Benjamin Dillingham ; hog reeves, Sampson Spooner, Sam-
uel Tupper, jr., Gilbert Bennit, Daniel Smith, Seth Hathaway.

The four districts above alluded to, into which the town was divided,
were made up of the sections separated north and south " by the har-
bor and river, and east and west by the highway, beginning in the line
between this town and that of Dartmouth, at the bridge about twenty
rods eastward of the house where James Peckham, deceased, last dwelt,
and leading easterly to the bridge at the Head of said harbor and
thence still easterly by the dwelling house of Hannaniah Cornish to
Rochester line."

In the records of the proceedings of this first town meeting are the
following items which possess some degree of interest: That " there
be one person employed as a town schoolmaster ; " that " the wages
of selectmen, assessors and others employed, shall be four shillings per
day; " that " the Hering Fishery at the head of Acquisnot Harbor be
inspected and see what will be proper to be done in respect to opening
the dams &c., to facilitate the passage of Alewives up the River;"
that "John Pickens (town treasurer), as soon as money sufficient there-
for comes into the town treasury, shall purchase a Rhiem of paper for
the purpose of making Books convenient for the Records and Accompts
of s'd town."

A petition was prepared this year by a large number of inhabitants
of" Acoakset" village in the town of Westport, praying that, as that
portion had been set off from the town of Dartmouth, the residents
therein be excused from paying any of the back taxes, and from work
ing the highways in Dartmouth. On the 15th of September this peti-
tion was granted by Dartmouth.

The town cast its first vote for governor of the State as follows :
James Bowdoin, forty- one ; John Hancock, 171. Three hundred and
twenty pounds were assessed on the " polls and estates for the repair
and amendment of the highways."

In the following year (1788) an additional section of North Water

NEW BEDFORD IN 1795.

THE SMALL- POX SCOURGE.

145

street, the easterly portion of Middle street, from the above highway,
and North Second street from Middle street north, were opened as
highways.

During this year small-pox visited the town, and its ravages were
sufficiently serious to demand public action. At the town meeting held
June 10, it was voted to build a pest house " 26 feet in length, 16 feet
wide, and 7 feet posts, with double floors below and single floor above."
A chimney was placed at one end, with a fire-place, and a room parti-
tioned off from the other end. Two glass windows were provided. The
house was located on Ebenezer Willis's land, and he was allowed six
shillings for every person taken into the house. The question whether
the town should take the matter of inoculation into consideration and
act upon it was decided in the negative.

In 1790, Water, Middle, and a portion of Main streets in Fairhaven
were accepted as highways. In 1791 the road on Clark's Point and in
the following year that on Sconticut Neck, were also accepted.

In the last named year the small- pox again broke out in the village,
with results far more distressing and fatal than those of four years ear-
lier. It was about this time that inoculation was heralded as a remedy
for this pestilence. Its introduction met with violent opposition in
many parts of the country and often with disastrous results. This was
especially true in New Bedford. In response to a petition signed by a
number of citizens, a town meeting was called "to take into considera-
tion the request for establishing an hospital for inoculation of the small-
pox under such rules and regulations as may be thought best, and act
and do at said meeting whatever may be thought proper to prevent
its spreading in a natural or unlawful way." The meeting was held
July 31, 1792, and the vote in favor of the hospital stood eighty- five to
sixty- eight. A series of rules, regulations, and orders recommended by
a committee, of which William Rotch, jr., was chairman, was adopted,
making ample provision for the care of patients and for their isolation
from other persons. Physicians, nurses, and a superintendent for the
hospital were provided for, and apparently every precaution was taken
to check the contagious disease. Following are the names of the com-
mittee : William Rotch, jr., chairman; Thomas Hazard, Lemuel Will-
iams, Robert Bennett, jr., Gamaliel Bryant, John Howland, Alden
Spooner, Eleazer Hathaway, Ebenezer Keen. ^^

146 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

The committee recommended that the hospital be erected on West
Island ; but at a town meeting held October 22, it was voted that four
houses located in different parts of the town should be selected for in-
oculating hospitals. This action seems to have been unwise and disas-
trous Had the plan of the committee been adopted, the disease could
probably have been controlled by isolation and the rigid enforcement of
the regulations. The malady was introduced into the town in the month
of September by the very means that had been chosen to prevent it.
The weather at this season, together with other local causes, was favor-
able to the development of the disease in its most malignant form. It
spread with great rapidity and with alarming results. About 100 per-
sons died from the disease.

It should be remembered that this was before the discovery of vac-
cination, and those who submitted to inoculation were forced to ex-
perience the dread disease with all its attendant suffering and evil efifects.
The only favorable result expected for the inoculated was that the pa-
tient could be better nursed and more humanely cared for in the hos-
pital than elsewhere. In 1796 vaccination robbed this pestilence of
most of its horrors. Among those who died of small pox between Sep-
tember, 1792, and January i, 1793, are the following: Widow Dorothy
Phillips and son John, Nathaniel Farr, Experience Pease, Polly Pease,
Eunice Done, Phebe Jenne and son Silas, Thankful Pope and child
Eunice, Jonathan Delano, Desire Taber and child, Edward Foster,
Anna Russell, Phebe Kempton, Jonathan Smith, Lemuel Hathaway,
Antipas Taber, James Sherman, a child of S. Proctor, jr., a child of
Benjamin Drew, a child of Jonathan Jenne, a child of Abraham
Russell, a child of Col. Edward Pope, a child of Asa Sherman, a child
of Benjamin Howland, and a child of Humphrey Hathaway.

TIic Medley or New Bedford Marine Journal. — The first newspaper
published in the town was issued Tuesday, November 27, 1792. It
was printed and published by John Spooner at his office near Rotch's
wharf. A detailed description of this early paper may be found in the
chapter devoted to the press. The editor announces, "by request of
several gentlemen and for the information of the public," that " the
street beginning at the four corners and running west is distinguished
and known by the name of Union street, the street running north frOm

FIRST NEWSPAPERS— STAGE LINES. 147

said four corners, North street, the street running east, Prospect street,
and that running south. Water street." ^

Advertisements were inserted "not to exceed twelve lines, tliree
weeks for four shillings." Among the advertisers were William
Rotch, jr., sail cloth, cordage, and general merchandise; Caleb Greene,
book binding in its several branches, school and account books, inks,
etc. ; John Spooner, books, including bibles, testaments, hymn books,
poems, histories, etc., any of which would be exchanged for clean cot-
ton and linen rags, old sail cloth or junk ; Joseph Damon offers for sale
a large well-built vessel, just launched, 59^ ft. keel, 22-g- ft. beam, etc. ;
Joseph Ricketson, cutlery, hardware, etc ; Joseph Clement, compass
maker.

In 1798 the Colicmbia Courier was printed and published every Sat-
urday by Abraham Shearman, jr., at the four corners. Among the
business advertisers were Peleg Howland, European and West India
goods ; Caleb Greene & Son, drugs and medicines ; William Ross, dry
goods ; Jeremiah Mayhew, dry goods, carpets, china and crockery- ware;
Howland Hathaway, European dry goods, teas and flour; Henry Dean,
Indian cotton ; Abraham Shearman, jr., books and stationery, school
books and almanacs ; Daniel Ricketson & Son, dry goods, broadcloths,
hardware, etc.

The postal facilities and traveling methods of our forefathers are in-
dicated by the fact that, in 1793, a post route was established by Sam-
uel Sprague from New Bedford to Barnstable, by way of Rochester,
Wareham, and Sandwich, and returning through Plymouth and Mid-
dleboro. Weekly communication with Boston was maintained by Wil-
liam Henshaw's stage, that left New Bedford every Tuesday morning
at 9 o'clock, arriving in Taunton the same evening; leaving the latter
town on Wednesday morning, the traveler arrived in Boston in time to
dine at Colonel Coleman's Bunch of Grapes tavern. Returning, the
stage left Boston every Friday morning at 9 o'clock, and Taunton 011
Saturday, arriving in New Bedford in time for dinner. The fare was
three pence per mile.

1 Union street during the period of the American Revolutipn was kijown as King street. North
street mentioned above is now known as North Water street. Prqspect street '
Union, and Water street isinown as South Water street.

148 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Abraham Russell ran a stage to Boston via Middleboro and Bridge-
water. On account of the advanced price of every article used in the
stage business, Mr. Russell, in 1794, increased the charges to $3 for
each passenger trip to Boston.

The close of the Revolutionary War, in 1783, found the village of
Dartmouth slowly recovering from the terrible scourging administered
by the British army in 1778. The men of enterprise and capital began
to push their business schemes ; shops, warehouses, and wharves be-
came bus)' with the fitting of vessels for merchant and whaling \'oy-
ages, and but a few years elapsed before a goodly fleet was again on the
ocean. But the difficulties that beset the American nation at the be-
ginning of its existence were deeply felt by the towns and cities devoted
to maritime pursuits. Benjamin Franklin said, " That the war that
ended with the surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown was only the war
of the revolution, and that the war of independence was yet to be
fought." Twenty years after the death of this statesman, the struggle
did occur that accomplished the complete recognition of the sovereignty
of the nation. The French Revolution of 1789, the Napoleonic wars in
the early part of the century, and the reluctant recognition of our rights
on the sea, made the intervening years, from the close of the Revolu-
tionary War to the end of the War of 1 8 1 2,'a season of great uncertainty
to the floating commerce of the American nation.

The restrictions placed upon the entry of American ships into foreign
ports, especially those of England and France, led to the seizure of
many of our vessels. This, with the impressment of American seamen,
was the prime cause of the War of 18 12. The confiscations made by
the French government resulted in the French spoliation claims, paid
by France to the United States, but never wholly distributed to the
rightful owners, who lost their vessels and cargoes during these years of
bloody contest in' continental Europe. The final payments are even
now being made. Our township suffered much from this condition of
affairs, and many vessels and much property were lost. One historic
incident will suffice to illustrate the difficulties under which the maritime
business of Bedford village was pursued in those troubled times, and to
shou' the pluck and -daring of the men who conducted these enterprises.

Isaac Howland, who manumitted the last slave held in bondage in

A YANKEE TRICK. 149

the township, was the owner of several merchant ships that sailed from
this harbor. During the closing years of the last century he sent two
vessels loaded with New England products to the West Indies. These he
consigned to his nephew, Weston Rowland (father of Hon. Weston How-
land, who related the incident to the writer), who also commanded the
largest and fastest vessel. The cargoes were disposed of, and the ves-
sels, laden with West India goods, sailed for New Bedford. Two days
out they were overhauled and captured by French war ships. The
mates and part of the crews of the brigs were taken on board the French
vessels. Prize-masters, with a half dozen French soldiers each, were
placed on board the captured ships and ordered to proceed to the near-
est French port. The commander, who was navigator, and therefore in
full charge, was placed on Captain Howland's vessel, and the other brig
was ordered to follow after. The Yankee skipper was not long in dis-
covering that the prize- master was exceedingly fond of gin, with a
special weakness for the old Holland brand ; and when he had partaken
of a liberal supply, he would rest his weary head on the table in the
cabin and sleep off the intoxicating draught. One day when enjoying
this delightful repose, the companion way of the cabin was gently closed
and firmly secured. The half dozen French sailors were made prison-
ers and securely imprisoned in the forecastle. Captain Howland had
worked up the affair with his three Yankee sailors, and soon found him-
self in command of the quarterdeck. Running down within hailing
distance of the other brig, he informed the Dartmouth captain that he
had possession and requested him to follow him into port.

The passage in the summer season was eight days long, during which
time Captain Howland did not go below or allow himself sleep, beyond
what he could get on his feet. The prize-master, who was a powerful,
athletic fellow, did not enjoy the situation of affairs when he had re-
covered from the effects of the old Holland, and made positive objection
to the proceedings. The fact of his being locked up in the cabin proved
to his disadvantage in the discussion, for Captain Howland declined to
make any change. The fractious Frenchman finally subsided under the
promise of Captain Howland that, if he behaved himself, no personal
harm should come to him. The tedious voyage finally came to an end,
the two vessels came up the bay into Acushnet River and were brought

15°

HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

alongside Rotch's south wharf. Considerable excitement was created
when the facts were known, and a large crowd gathered on the wharves
with the evident design of administering punishment to the Frenchmen.
There were securely held in the cabin until after dark, when Captain
Rowland took them on a stage to Sampson's tavern near Middleboro.
Here they were supplied with money and letters to the French consul
in Boston, and on the following morning they proceeded on their jour-
ney to that city.

Among the events of public and personal character that happened
during this period of our local history, the following seem worthy of in-
sertion in these pages :

At a meeting of the Philomathean Society, March ii, 1794, the fol-
lowing officers were elected for the ensuing year : Rev. Dr. West, presi-
dent; Rev. Lemuel Le Baron, vice-president; Mr. Isaac Tompkins,
Dr. Samuel Perry, jr., counselors; John Spooner, secretary; Capt.
Jonathan Swift, treasurer.

The emigration of the French, due to the persecution of the Hugue-
nots under Louis XIV. and his predecessors, contributed to the forma-
tion of the population of New England. A number of families in New
Bedford are descended from these refugees. A curious incident in this
connection is the fact that shortly after the Revocation of the Edict of
Nantes, a French privateer appeared in Buzzard's Bay and was there
wrecked. Those who escaped to the shore were made prisoners of war.
One of them was Dr. Francois Le Baron, the surgeon of the ship, who
was a Huguenot refugee. He afterwards was given his liberty and the
right to a settlement in Plymouth, in gratitude for a very skillful surgi-
cal operation which he there performed. It is from him that the Le
Baron family is descended, many of whose representatives are now liv-
ing in New Bedford and vicinity.

During this year (1794) a public pound and workhouse were erected.
A bounty of thirty- three shillings was offered by the town to soldiers
for frontier service. The street over the milldam in Fairhaven was
opened in 1795. Record is made that at this time Bedford village con-
tained 454 houses and 1,313 inhabitants. In 1796 William, Rotch
deeded the lot of land, on the northwest corner of Purchase and Williarri
streets, to the new Congregational society.

OBSERVATION OF ANNIVERSARIES. 151

The twentieth anniversary of American Independence was this year
celebrated by the town of Bedford with great rejoicings ; and it is re-
corded that the military honors of the day were performed by the artil-
lery under command of Captain Ayers. The festivities included an
instructive oration by Rev. Samuel West, D.D., and a public dinner at
which toasts and speeches were in order, accompanied by the discharge
of cannon. In 1797 the anniversary was celebrated with the usual
parade, the artillerj'- company under Captain Henshaw, performing the
military exercises of the day. The oration was delivered by Mr. Jireh
Willis "before a large and respectable audience." Patriotic- toasts and
speeches were offered, and every sentiment expressed evinced that "New
Bedford would not be the last to espouse the cause of our country
against any encroachments upon her independence, whether from En-
glish or French. To speak in fact, they were Columbians." ^

Washington's birthday, February 22, 1799, was commemorated with
great rejoicings; and "the celebration of the American Cincinnatus's
birth was accompanied with the Federal discharge of artillery. Federal
toasts and Federal harmony ran through the scene, and no misfortune
beclouded the general mirth."

Thursday, January 6, 1800, was set apart as a day of public mourn-
ing in New Bedford, in memory of General Washington, who died at
his country seat in Virginia, December 14, 1799. The news reached
the town via New York, on December 22, and a handbill issued by
the Courier announced the fact and gave every particular of the event
that had been received up to that date. On the day of the ceremonies,
a procession was formed under the direction of Colonels Pope, Kemp-
ton, Claghorn, and Captain Bryant. It consisted of the artiller)' and
militia companies, a body of Free Masons,^ orator, clergy, choir of
singers, civil officers, and the school children each with a black ribbon
on the left arm. While the procession moved, the bells tolled and
minute guns were discharged. The funeral oration was delivered by
Rev. John Briggs, of Tiverton. The flags on vessels were set at half-
mast during the day.

1 Columbian Courier.

« Probably the Washington Remembrance Lodge, F. and A. M., which was in existence about

152 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

The New Bedford Academy, established for the education of both
sexes, was opened May, i, 1800, under the care of Galen Hicks and
Miss Sally Cady. Noah Stoddard and Robert Bennett were the com-
mittee on behalf of the proprietors. In 1796 the New Bedford and
Fairhaven bridge was built. The rates of toll in 1800 were four cents
for each foot passenger, twelve cents for each person and horse, twenty-
five cents for each chaise or sulky, eighteen cents for each sleigh drawn
by one horse, and six cents for each additional horse; thirty-six cents
for each coach, phaeton, curricle, or four-wheel carriage for passengers,
twenty- five cents for each cart, wagon, sled, or other carriage of burthen,
drawn by two beasts ; and for the privilege of rolling a wheelbarrow or
hand-cart over the bridge, six cents were charged ; for the same money,
a dozen sheep, swine, cattle or horses, in droves with one driver, could
cross this private highway.

On the 4th of July, 1801, a unique military display was made in
Fairhaven by the Democrats. It was a reproduction of the assault and
defense of Bunker Hill. A broad field with a high hill, in front of
Joshua L. Pope's house, was selected as the center of operations, and
weeks before the event the people were, busy with the preparations.
The hill was prepared with masked ramparts, built of plank, behind
which the Yankee forces were to resist the attacks of the British. It is
recorded that Capt. Noah S'toddard of privateering fame, and an en-
thusiastic Democrat, loaned his fine horse to the representatives of the
British crown for the occasion. The fact occasioned much amusement
to the populace, and Mr. Stoddard was the recipient of good-natured
chaffing, when his fiery charger appeared on the scene with the attack-
ing party. The British army, not in red coats, but in the homespun of
Yankee yeomanry, filed in through the wall in front of Mr. Pope's
house. The force on the hill gathered noiselessly by a route in the
rear. It was afternoon when, after various marches and counter-
marches, the attack began, and attack and repulse followed repeatedly,
the dead and wounded, in large numbers, lying scattered on the field.
At last the hill was stormed with the bayonet and defended with clubbed
muskets, until at last the flags of the Pine Tree of Massachusetts re-
treated down the hill to the frog pond, and the victors took possession.
The whole affair was well done, the field and its surroundings resembled

EVENTS OF INTEREST.

'53

very well the original, and the hill was ever afterwards called Bunker
Hill.

During the months of September and October, iSoi, a fatal fever
prevailed through the town. It excited much alarm, and caused the
people to stay closely in their homes. The authorities were alive to
the gravity of the situation, and exercised their influence to control the
malignant disease. There were eleven deaths in three weeks ending
October ist, most of them from the fever.

The Bedford Bank was organized under an act of incorporation, April
2, 1803, by Thomas Hazard, jr., Edward Pope, and Seth Russel, jr.,
stockholders. (See later chapter.) The first legal meeting of the Bed-
ford Aqueduct Association, Charles Russell, clerk, was held March 17,
1804. On September 26 of the same year, Joseph Willard, D.D.,
(LL.D.), president of Harvard University, died at the house of Edward
Pope, esq. Belleville road was opened during this year.

An interesting story ' was related by Capt. John Aikin, for many
years an experienced pilot in our harbor, who died in 1885 at the ad-
vanced age of ninety- seven years. It touches one of the greatest of
naval contests, the battle of Trafalgar, fought October 21, 1805, be-
tween the English fleet and the combined fleets of France and Spain.

"I was born in the town of Dartmouth in the year 1788, and was seventeen years
old when I sailed ni the ship Ann Alexander, commanded by Capt. Loum Snow. The
sliip sailed from New Bedford (her port of departure was New Yorlc) for Leghorn, with
a cargo of general merchandise consisting of flour, tobacco, salt fish, and apples. Eight-
een days out, we fell in with the English fleet off Cape Trafalgar. The different ships
were repairmg damages which had occurred during the battle with the combined
French and Spanish fleets only a few days previous. We had on our deck a quantity
of lumber which had been taken on board just before the departure from New York,
and was, I believe, the personal property of Capt. Snow. An English officer boarded
us and informed our captam that Lord Nelson had been shot through tlie shoulder and
spine, and had died on board the Victory a few hours after the battle was over : that
Lord Collingwood was the next senior officer in command. We could readily see the
efTect of the enemy's fire upon the English ships. The men were on the outside of the
different men-of-war, repairing the damages which had been done. The English officer
returned to the Victory, Lord Colliugwood's flagship, and soon afterward came back
with a request that we let him have our lumber, a quantity of flour, and some of the
apples. Our captain agreed, and soon after the boats from the ships came alongside
and were furnished with these difterent articles. The captain was paid for these goods

1 Related by Captain Aikin to Surgeon George F. Winslow, U. S. N.

154 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

in English gold by the fleet paymaster, who came on board and settled the accounts.
We squared away for the Straits of Gibraltar and on the following day came up with
the new 74-gun frigate United States which had recently arrived on this station. They
lowered a boat and came alongside. We gave them the news and sent the commander
two barrels of apples."

The Ann Alexander will live in New Bedford history as the vessel
which was afterwards destro\-ed by an infuriated whale while that ship
was on a vo}'age in the Pacific Ocean, August 20, 1851.

The pubHc spirit and patriotism of the town at this period is revealed
in the demonstrations made on Washington's birthday in 1807, when
the vessels in the harbor and the flagstafifs about the town were deco-
rated in honor of the event, and a public parade of the artillery com-
pany, Capt. John Coggeshall, was made.

The year 1808 seems to have been a patriotic one, for July 4 was
notably observed. A grand procession was formed at Nelson's Hotel
(located where now stands Ricketson's block), and under the escort of
the artillery company, Capt. Coggeshall, and the infantry company,
Capt. Samuel Bonney, marched through the principal streets of the
town. A grand banquet was served at the hotel for 200 people, and
speeches and toasts followed.

A similar celebration was observed in 1809, and a military display
was made under the direction of Col. Benjamin Lincoln. The artillery
company was under the command of Capt. John Coggeshall, and the
infantry under Capt. Thomas Barstow. Fireworks were set off and lan-
terns displayed.

Through the brief notices of these public events is traced the contin-
ued existence of military organizations in the town.

In the 4th of July parade of 18 10 the artillery company was under
command of Capt. Samuel Stall, and the militia company in charge of
Lieut. John Grey. The following, a complete roster of this company,
dated January 25, 1810, was obtained through S. D. Horton, of Dor-
chester, a son of Sergeant Enoch Horton.

JiInsTER Roll of Capt. Thomas Barstow's Compant of Foot, January 27, 1810.

Officers. — Captain, Thomas Barstow ; lieutenant, Job Grey ; sergeants and musicians,
Enoch Horton, Robert Weaver, Alanson Caswell.

RanTi and Fih. — George Bliss, Stephen Wing, Zephaniah Winslow, Benjamin War-
ren, Charles Forbes, Jethro Hillman, William Dalton, Benjamin Simmons, Thomas

SELECTMEN, 16S2-1811.

'S5

Allen, John S. Himes, Samuel Bliss, Jediithan Cadwell, Jonathan Wirt 2d, John Free-
man, Zebedee Booth, Timothy Perry, Charles Allen, Nathaniel Perry, Charles Covell,
Benjamin Kenipton, John lieffards, Richard Hill, Samuel C. Tobey, David Howland,
William Blaokmer, Uriah Head, Elisha Knapp, Charles , William B. Ellis (ap-
pointed quartermaster), John Fuller, Jonathan Howland, jr., Samuel Taber, John Tay-
lor, William Cranston, Nathan Parker, Stephen West, Oliver Crocker, Elijah Wilbour,
Martin Oicut, David Wilcox, Stephen Tripp, Timothy Mosher, Richard Randall, Na-
than Perry, William C. Nye, Mathew Swain, jr., Stephen Potter, Joseph Dunbar,
Thomas Hammond, Jonathan Fuller, David Green, John Sisson, Enoch Butts, Ezra
Hathaway, Henry Place, Josiah L. Bliss, Edward Taber (at B. Hills), (one name illegi-
ble), Simeon Nash, Nye Holmes, Francis Allen, Ralph Cadwell, David Stowell, Allen
Sherman, John Clapp, James Heffards, Thurston Sherman, Nash Decost, Perry Jen-
nings, Francis Smith, Pardon Pierce, William W. Kempton, Thomas Burrill, Smith
Simmons, Soloman Cadwell, Philip White, Latham Cross, Benj. Taber (cooper), David
Sawdy, James Hathaway, Stephen Howland, William Nash, William Tuckerman, Ben-
jamin Hillman, Charles Gilbert, Gilbert Brooks, George Simmons, John Evans, Clem-
ant Covin.

For the sake of convenient reference, there is presented here a list of
the selectmen of Dartmouth and New Bedford, from 1682 to 181 1. The
original spelling of the records is preserved :

16S2, John Rusel, Arthur Hathaway, John Cooke. 1683, John Ru.^el, Arthur Hath-
away, John Cooke. 1684, John Rusel, Arthur Hathaway, John Cooke. 16S5, Seth
Pope, Jonathan Russell, Thomas Taber. 1686, Joseph Tripp, Seth Pope, Jonathan De-
lino. 1687, Joseph Tripp, Seth Pope, Jonathan Delino. 1688, Abraham Tucker, James
Tripp. 1689, Seth Pope, Jonathan Delino, James Sison. 1692, Thomas Taber, Joseph
Tripp, Thomas Brigs. 1693, Thomas Taber, John Akin, George Cadman. 1694, Thomas
Taber, Abraham Tucker, George Cadman. 1695, Jonathan Delino, Recompense Kirby_
William Soal. 1696, Jonathan Delino, Abraham Tucker, George Cadman. 1697, George
Soul, Isaac Pope, Benjamin Howland. 1698, George Cadman, John Tucker, Jonathan
Dilinay. 1699, Thomas Taber, Nathaniel Howland, Joseph Tripp. 1700, EHezer Smith,
Thomas Hadaway, Thomas Rogers. 1701-2, Joseph Tripp, William Soul. James Sam-
son. 1701-2, Jonathan Delano, John Tucker, Phillip Taber. 1704-5, William
Spooner, Thos. Getohel, Joseph Hix. 1706, Joseph Tripp, DiUiverance Smith. 1708,
Joseph Tripp, Deliverance Smith, Thomas Taber, jr. 1709, Joseph Tripp, Deliverance
Smith, Thomas Taber, jr. 1710, Jonathan Delano, Joseph Tripp, John Aken. 1711,
Thomas Taber, James Tripp, Henry Tucker. 1711-12, John Russell, John Taber^
John Tripp. 1713, John Tripp, John Taber, Gersham Smith. 1714, John Tripp,
John Taber, Gersham Smith. 1716, Phillip Taber, John Akin, John Taber. 1717, De-
liverance Smith, Thomas Taber, jr., George Lawton. 1717, Jonathan Deleno, Nathan-
iel Soule, John Tripp. 1719, John Akin, Phillip Taber, Thomas Taber, jr. 1720, John
Akin, Phillip Taber, Thomas Taber, jr. 1721, John Akin, Phillip Taber, Thomas Taber,
jr. 1722, John Akin, Phillip Taber, Thomas Taber, jr. 1723, John Akin, Berriah God-
dard, Jacob Taber. 1725, John Akin, Phillip Taber, Jacob Taber. 1726, John Akm,

iS6 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Phillip Taber, Jacob Taber. 1727, Beriah Goddard, Isaac Howland, Jacob Taber.
1728, Beriah Goddard, Henry Howland, Stephen West, jr. 172'.t, Beriah Goddard,
Henry Howland, Stephen West, jr. 1730, Jacob Taber, Timothy Shearman, Isaac
Wood. (These refused to serve). 1730, John Tripp, Beriah Goddard, James How-
land, Stephan West, jr. 1731, James Howland Stephan West, jr., John Tripp. 1732,
Stephen West, jr., James Howland, John Tripp. 1733, John Tripp, James Howland,
Benjamin Allen. 1734, Jacob Taber, John Tripp, John Akin. 1735, John Tripp, Jo-
seph Tucker, Benjamin Allen. 173G, Benjamin Allen, Joseph Tucker, Isaac Wood.
1737, John Tripp, Holden Slocum, Benjamin Allen. 1737-8, Nathaniel Soul, Holder
Slooum, Benjamin Allen. 1739, Benjamin Allen, Holden Slocutn, Nathaniel Soul.
1740, Capt. Samuel Willis, James Allen, Jonathan Sisson. 1741, John Tripp, Humphry
Smith, Stephen West. 1742, John Tripp, Humphry Smith, Stephen West, jr. 1743,
Jedediah Wood, Jonathan Taber, Humphry Smith. 1744, Moses Mendal, Humphry
Smith, James Tripp. 1745, Jedediah Wood, Humphry Smith, Moses Mendall. 1746,
Humphry Smith, Jedediah Wood, Jonathan Taber. 1747, Humphry Smith, John
Soul, Jonathan Taber. 1748, Capt. Lemuel Pope, Humphry Smith, Jedediah Wood.
1748-9, John Wing, Jedediah Wood, Richard Peirce. 1748-9, Peleg Hudlestone cho-
sen in place of Jedediah Wood, who refused to serve. 1750, Humphry Smith, Jedediah
Wood, Thomas Hathaway. 1751, Thomas Hathaway, Benjamin Akin, Jonathan Sole.
1751, John Shepherd and Jirah Swift were chosen in place of Thomas Hathaway and
Benjamin Akin, who refused to serve. Jedediah Wood was chosen in place of Jona-
than Sole. 1752, Capt. Nathaniel Sole, Pelig Smith, Jirah Swift. 1753, Jethro Delano,
Jirah Swift, Capt. Nathaniel Sowle. James Allen chosen in place of Jethro Delano,
who refused to serve. Peleg Smith was chosen in place of James Allen, refused to
serve. 1754, Richard Cornal, William Hart, Thomas Hathaway. 1755. Jireh Swift,
John Soule, Benjamin Akin. 1757, Jireh Swift, John Soule, Benjamin Akin. 1757,
Jetiiro Hathaway, Christopher Cadman, Holder Slocum. 1758, Humphry Smith, Jireh
Swift, Christopher Cadman. 1759, Humphry Smith, Christopher Cadman, Walter
.Spooner. 1760, Humphry Smith. Christopher Cadman, Walter Spooner. 1761,
Humphry Smith, Walter Spooner, Ezekell Cornell. 1762, Humphry Smith, Walter
■Spooner, Ezekell Cornell. 1763, Humphry Smith, Walter Spooner, Ezekell Cornell.
1764, Humphrey Smith, Walter Spooner, Ezekell Cornell. 1705, Humphry Smith,
Walter Spooner, Daniel Wood. 1766, Walter Spooner, Daniel Wood, Giles Slocum.
1767, Walter Spooner, Daniel Wood, Giles Slocum. 1768, Walter Spooner, Daniel
Wood, Giles Slocum. 1769, Walter Spooner, Daniel Wood, Giles Slocum. 1770, Walter
Spooner, Giles Slocum, William Davis. 1771, Walter Spooner, Giles Slocum, William
Davis. 1772, William Davis, John Wady, Seth Russell. Giles Slocum Chosen in pi. of
John Wady. 1773, Jabez Barker, jr., William Davis, William Tallman. 1774, Jabez Bar-
ker, jr., William Davis, William Tallman. 1775, Jabez Barker, jr., William Davis, Will-
iam Tallman. 1776, Jabez Barker, jr., William Davis, William Tallman. 1777, Jabez
Barker, jr., William Davis, William Taltman. 1778, Aulden Spooner, Thomas Kemp-
ton, Benjamin Russell, jr., Job Almy. 1779, William Davis, Richard Kerby, Benja.
Russell, jr., Maletiah Hathaway, Thomas Kempton, Aulden Spooner, Benjamin Church.
1780, Richard Kerby, Benja. Russell, Alden Spooner, William Davis, Thomas Kemp-

IS8 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

ton, Melatiah Hathaway. 1781, Benjamin Russell, Pardon Cook, William Davis. 1782,
Edward Pope, Jabez Barker, Stephen Peckoom. 1783, Ebenezer Willis, Stephen Peek-
corn, Jabez Barker. 1784, Ebenezer Willis, Stephen Peckcom, Jabez Barker. 1785,
Ebenezer Willis, Stephen Peckcom, Jabez Barker. 1786, Ebenezer Willis, Henry
Smith, William Alray. 1787, John West, Isaac Pope, William Tallman. 1788, Walter
Spooner, William Tallman, Stephan Hathaway. 1789, Walter Spooner, William Tall-
man, Stephen Hathaway. 1790, Walter Spooner, William Tallman, Stephen Hathaway.
1791, Walter Spooner, William Tallman, Stephen Hathaway. 1792, Walter Spooner,
William Tallman, Stephen Hathaway. 1793, William Tallman, Ebenezer Keen, Bar-
tholomew Aikin. 1794, Walter Spooner, William Tallman, Isaac Shearman. 1795,
Walter Spooner, WiUiam Tallman, Isaac Shearman. 1796, Walter Spooner, William
Tallman, Isaac Shearman. 1797, Alden Spooner, William Tallman, Isaac Shearman.
1798, Alden Spooner, William Tallman, Joseph Bennett. 1799, Alden Spooner, Will-
iam Tallman, Joseph Bennett. 1800, William Tallman, Alden Spooner, Killey Eldredge.
1801, William Tallman, Alden Spooner, Kelley Eldredge. 1802, Alden Spooner, Killey
Eldredge, Simpson Hart. 1803, Alden Spooner, Cornelius Grinnell, Joseph Bennet.
1804, Roger Haskell, Bartholomew Aikin, James Taber. 1805, Bartholomew Aikin,
James Taber, Silas Kempton. 1806, James Taber, Roger Haskell, Thomas Nye, jr.
1807, Alden Spooner, Roger Haskell, Thomas Nye, jr. 1808, Alden Spooner, Roger
Haskell, Thomas Nye, jr. 1809, Alden Spooner, Roger Haskell, Thomas Nye, jr.
1810, Alden Spooner, Roger Haskell, Killey Eldredge. 181 1, Alden Spooner, Roger
Haskell, Joseph Church.

CHAPTER XI.

THE WAR OF l8l2.

England's Disregard of the Rights of the United States — Impressment of Ameri-
can Seamen — The Embargo Act and its Effects — Opposition to it in New England

— Political Strife between Bedford and Fairhaven — Declaration of War — Its Effect
upon New Bedford — Measures for Defence — The Constitution and Lieutenant Parker

— Two Useless Gunboats — The British Brig Nimrod— The " Wagon Brigade."

EVENTS were happening during the early years of the century
that had an important bearing on the final issues that resulted in
the declaration of war with England. Many of the stipulations of the
treaty of 1783 had been disregarded. The military posts on the front-
ier that were to be abandoned were still in possession of the English,

PORTENTS OF WAR.

'59

and had become centers of assistance to the Indians in their attacks
upon the American settlements. It was difficult for England to recog-
nize the sovereign rights of the new nation that had once been subject
to the British crown. On the land these rights were ignored, often to
the humiliation of the representatives of the United States, but it was
on the sea where the most flagrant outrages were committed. The
conflict raging between England and France furnished opportunities for
the development of these wrongs. In 1806 the former nation declared
the Continental coast under a strict blockade. In a few months Napo-
leon issued a decree, placing the entire British coast in a similar condi-
tion. These decrees (which practically forbade neutral nations from
entering their ports) were of no serious importance to the nations di-
rectly involved, but they bore heavily upon the floating commerce of
the United States, especially that of New England, where the maritime
interests were dependent upon the markets of the Old World. Many
vessels and cargoes were confiscated by the ships of war of both na-
tions, and the ocean traffic of the new republic was seriously crippled.

Tiiese misfortunes were increased by the claim of right of search by
the English government. British cruisers waylaid American vessels,
and American sailors were forced into their naval service. The press-
ing need of men for the thousand vessels that composed the English
navy at this time made every sailor without protection papers a sure
victim, and even these often failed to secure his sovereign rights. It
was stated b}' Mr. Lyman, United States consul at London, that in 181 1
there were 14,000 Americans serving under compulsion in the British
navy.

In 1807 the United States government issued a proclamation, placing
an embargo on shipping in American ports, thus forbidding all exports
from the country. The evident purpose of this manifesto was to save
men and cargoes from capture. The Federal party vigorously opposed
this action, and New England was especially violent in opposition to
this unwise move, for she was far more seriously affected by it than
other sections of the country. Her spacious harbors had become cen-
ters for a prosperous traffic and her forests furnished the finest lumber
in the world, which found a ready market across the ocean. The ports
of Salem, Newburyport, and New Bedford sent out large fleets of ves-

i6o HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

sels in the whale fishery, and here we find the true reason for the fierce
opposition of New England in general, and New Bedford in particular,
to the declaration of war in 1812. The maritime interests of the
Acushnet River and the capital invested were largely centered in Bed-
ford village, which was therefore more sensitive to the anticipated ca-
lamities of war than Fairhaven, whose attention was given to agricul-
tural pursuits. The business of the whole New England coast was
blighted by the unwise action of the government, unwise, that is to say,
in the eyes of the Federal party of the country.

The following significant figures of the presidential election in 18 12,
when the peace majority was 24,000 in a total vote of 74,000, show the
state of public opinion in Massachusetts. New Bedford cast 399 votes
for Clinton, the presidential candidate of the Federal, or peace party,
and thirteen for Madison, who was re-elected by the Republican, or
war party. Dartmouth cast 341 votes for Clinton and twenty- three for
Madison, and Fairhaven 157 for Clinton and 201 for Madison. The
act " Declaring war with England " was passed by Congress with ninety-
eight yeas and sixty- two nays, a plurality of only thirty-six votes. In
18 1 3 Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut refused to give up
the command of their militia to United States officers.

It is difficult to understand why the reasons urged for war with Eng-
land did not apply with equal force to France, for she made wanton
depredations upon our commerce and manifested an equal disregard of
the rights of the American nation. It is evident, however, that the
United States government knew its inability to cope with both powers,
and so joined cause with France against England, hoping by force of
.arms over the one, and by fraternal interest with the other, to secure a
lasting recognition of the rights of an independent nation — and it suc-
ceeded.

In 1809 Congress repealed the Embargo act and substituted a rule of
non-intercourse with England and France until they should remove the
restrictions upon trade. This was done by France in 18 10, but was
not accomplished by the English government till June 22, and before
the news had been received of the declaration of war on June 18, 1812.
It did not modify the action of the United States government, how-
ever, for other existing grievances seemed to justify the pursuance of
the war policy.

POLITICAL DIFFERENCES. i6i

Bedford village at this time was strongly allied to the Federal party,
of which Washington and Adams were exponents, while Fairhaven was
equally pronounced in its loyalty to the Republican, or what would be
termed to-day the Democratic party, whose great leaders were Jefferson
and Madison. The Federal party was opposed to the war, and so was
Bedford village. The Republican party was in favor of the war, and so
was Fairhaven. The result of this marked division of opinion upon
the great issues of the period made lively times at town meetings.
Record and tradition both show that these gatherings were character-
ized by great vigor, and oftentimes with much rancor. The modern
town meeting can not claim originality in this direction.

The town-house was situated near Parting Ways, the intersection ol
the Acushnet and Fairhaven roads, and was the scene of many a con-
test between the two villages. When they were separated into different
townships in 1812 the town-house was moved to the northwest corner
of Second and School streets, and is now standing. It was used as a
house of worship by the Calvinist Baptist Church until the erection of
the present edifice on William street.

At one time an exciting question was under discussion, and the pent
up walls of the town-house could not contain the populace, so an ad-
journment to the open green was made, where the orators continued
the debate. When the vote was taken the house divided, as was then
the custom, on either side of the road, the persuasive tongues of the
leaders still wagging to influence the voters as they took position. On
this occasion Capt. Noah Stoddard, of privateering fame, was much ex-
cited, and as the voters moved to the side of the road where he stood
he pointed with pride to his flock and shouted, " I began alone on this
question, and now, you see, I have a respectable company." At which
Caleb Congdon, of Bedford village, an equally enthusiastic leader on the
other side, retorted, "Yes, and old Cloven- foot commenced his career
alone, and he's got a respectable following, too." The incident has no
value, except that it illustrates the rivalry existing at this time between
the villages, and which was manifested in a marked degree during the
War of 1812.

Many of the RepubHcan party of the time were in sympathy with
France in her contest with England, and so it happened that Fairhaven
21

i62 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

imbibed the same spirit. The Fairhaven youth won the name of " Cor-
sicans," derisively given them by their rivals across the river, whose war
song suggested the character of the relations between the factions :

" Corsica Jigs, put on your wigs.
And over to Bedford come ;
New Bedford boys put on your hats,
And make the Corsicans run !"

The state of public opinion in New Bedford is forcibly illustrated in
the action of a town meeting held in May, 1812, at which resolutions
were adopted declaring that " We view with extreme regret and appre-
hension an impending war with Great Britain, which in our opinion
will be disturbing and ruinous to our country, destructive to our com-
merce, and cause a heavy increase of direct taxes. Ruinous, as it would
lead to an alliance with France, to which no nation has hitherto acceded
without loss of its liberty and independence."

It was resolved that a petition be sent to Congress, expressing the
wishes of the town that a war might be avoided.

A few days after this public meeting in Bedford village, one was
called in Fairhaven, May 15, 1812, to which the citizens were invited
in the following significant advertisement in the New Bedford Gazette:

"The friends of the present administration, the adherents to the good old cause of
Eepubhoanism, vihom British gold can not corrupt, nor oM Tories affright, who are will-
ing to aid the government of their country in a firm and vigorous defence of national
honor and dignity, are requested to give their attendance to-morrow afternoon at 3 of
the clock, at the Academy in Fairhaven, then and there to take into consideration the
present situation of our pubhc affairs, and to adopt measures expressive of their undi-
minished attachment to the cause of their country. P. S. — The Republicans of Fair-
haven and New Bedford and the towns in the vicinity are particularly invited to
attend."

A few days after. May 23, a similar meeting was held at the town-
house, Head-of-the-River, at which Hon. Nathaniel Morton, of Free-
town, presided, and John Hawes was secretary. It was declared that in
their opinion there exists, and has long existed, ample cause of war by
the United States with both France and England, but as a prudent pol-
icy required the selection of our actual enemy, so it clearly pointed to
England as the aggressor.

Such were the varied opinions which served to color the train of

LOSSES OF NEW BEDFORD. 163

events which, with other causes, led to the final separation of the two
towns, February 22, 1812.

On the 1 8th of June, 1812, Congress declared war, and President
Madison made public proclamation on the following day. How the
news was received in New Bedford was expressed in the following edit-
orial in the Mercury :

"The awful calamity is at length oflficially announced. A war which has been so
long predicted by the wise, ridiculed by the weak, deprecated by the honest, and courted
by the wicked is officially announced. Kever have we seen dismay so generally and
forcibly depicted on the features of our fellow citizens as at this portentous moment.
The hand of enterprise is withered, and the heart sickened, the hard-earned treasures of
industry are dissolved, and the business of life seems to pause in awful suspense."

This was without doubt a fair and candid statement of the attitude of
New Bedford at the beginning of the war. If it was conservative, and
even antagonistc, it should be borne in mind that all New England oc-
cupied this position, and that the powerful Federal party of the land
vigorously opposed the war measures of the administration. The war
policy was also opposed by many of the Republican leaders of the day,
notably the eloquent John Randolph, whose fiery speeches brought
down upon him the maledictions of his party and the promise of a coat
of tar and feathers. History records the fact that Madison purchased
his re-election by committing hiinself to war measures against his judg-
ment and convictions. It was claimed by the opponents of the war
that the existing grievances could and would be remedied by milder
measures and that these wrongs did not justify armed resistance.

New Bedford received crushing blows at the very outset of this sec-
ond conflict with England. During the three months following the
declaration of war, made June iS, 18 12, eight vessels belonging to this
port were captured by the enemy, each with valuable cargos :

Ship Sally and cargo, value, |40,U00

Ship Triton " " 16,000

Ship Castor " " . • 20,000

Ship Aral " " . 21,000

Ship Science " " 28,000

Ship ffonestm " " 20,000

Sch. Caroline " " 9,000

Sch. Three Friends and cargo, value, 4,000

Ship Catharine .< u 60,000

Total valuation, $218,00a

i64 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

August 6, 1812, the brig Wasp of Fairhaven, on a voyage to Liver-
pool, was seized by His Majesty's cutter Earl Spciicer, Lieutenant
Bothwell, off Cape Clear. The mate and crew were taken on board the
cutter. The Wasp was carried into Cork, and detained as a prize.
Captain Hitch, the mate, and three of the crew were sent to Plymouth
as prisoners of war.

Preparations for the defence of this harbor were soon manifested on
both sides of the Acushnet. New guns were mounted on Fort Phoenix
and a regular garrison placed on duty. Advertisements appeared in
the newspaper calling for enlistments of able-bodied men from the age
of eighteen to thirty- five years, all such to receive a bounty of $16, and,
after five years' service and an honorable discharge, a further bounty of
three months' pay and 160 acres of land. Recruiting offices were
opened, and recruiting for the United States army began in earnest.
In Fairhaven an office was opened on Water street in the second build-
ing north of the street leading to the old south wharf, owned at the
time by Capt. Harrison G. Church, afterwards commander of a military
company. On Center street, just west of the present Congregational
Church, and directly in front of Whiting's market, was a large rock that
extended across the street. On this rock were mounted two cannon,
and the south entrance of the original Congregational Church, now
Phcenix Hall, was used as a magazine.

In the month of September, 18 12, two companies were formed in
Fairhaven, one of regular militia, with the following officers: Captain,
John Alden, jr.; lieutenant, Barnabas Hammond; clerk, Freeman
Pope. The other company was commanded by Capt. Joseph Bates, sr.,
and was called the "volunteers." Its members were elderly men, whose
age prevented their joining the regular militia. Both companies were
largely composed of adherents to the Republican party.

A mud fort was built on Love Rocks, situated due south of Fort
street. The barracks extended to the cluster of trees directly west.
They were built under the supervision of Capt. William Gordon, and
were garrisoned by the Sea Fencibles. Charles Eldredge, who wit-
nessed the erection of the fort, gathered the names of a few of this

company, which numbered about forty men: Captain, Barker;

first lieutenant, a Frenchman (name unknown) ; second lieutenant,

CLK\zLuh^. ^aht

PREPARATIONS FOR DEFENCE. 165

Bradford ; Hardy Hitch, John Wallace, Nathaniel Snow, Peter

Harvey, Charles Glover, Andrew Pickens, George Alden, Peter Har-
per, Thomas West, Solomon, Barstow, Benjamin Swain,

Waters.

The fort mounted six guns. Another mud fort was built at Smok-
ing Rocks, near the sight of Potomska mills. Thomas Durfee was on
duty when this fort was building and remembered being stationed near
the shore when Captain Gordon was directing operations. Mr. Durfee
was the only surviving New Bedford soldier of the war of 181 2 at the
time of his death and gave the writer many interesting reminiscences of
that struggle. He was a member of Captain Nelson's infantry com-
pany, the roster of which is here given :

Captain, Nathaniel Nelson; lieutenant, Job Grey, jr ; ensign, George Clark; first
sergeant, Benjamin Warren; second sergeant, Gamaliel Hart; third sergeant, Nathan-
iel Perry ; fourth sergeant, Thomas Ridell ; drill sergeant, Charles Hathaway ; coriDorals,
David Howland, Robert Tuokerman, James Proud, Charles Covel ; drummer, Alanson
Caswell; fifer, Charles Pratt; captain's waiter, Abner Soule ; privates, David Allen,
Joseph Wilcox, Josiah L. Bliss, William Tuckerman, Edward Gardner, Willet Seabury,
Joseph Merritt, Nathaniel Bassett, Charles Gilbert, Benjamin Hammond, Nye Holmes,
Jonathan Howland, jr., Elisha Briggs, William W. Kempton, James Babcock, Samuel
Proud, Josiah Winslow, Ivory C. Albert, Uriah Head, Perry Jenkins, Russell Wood,
Thomas Kempton, William Lane, Heman Cushman, Avery Parker 2d, Thomas Durfee,
Elisha Clark, Thomas Burrell, Stanton Buroh, Stephen West, jr., Jonathan Hafiords,
David Wilber, Ezra Hathaway, Noel Taber, Benjamin B. Covell, Michael Randall, Till-
inghast Tompkins, J. Haflfords (armorer), Israel Smith, Hampton Pierce, Benjamin
Douglass, William Cudworth, Oliver Price, jr., John Sisson, Stephen Howland, Moses
Washburn, Charles Wood, Richard Hill, John Wadkins, Benjamin Brownell, Felix Filuel,
Warren Mosher, John Aikin, William Bliss, jr., Elijali Knop, Elihu Mosher 2d, Merril
Hathaway, Henry Frederick, Gardner Chase.

The declaration of war carried consternation and terror into every
town and hamlet on the seacoast, for they were at once exposed to the
ravages of British cruisers and privateers. To illustrate this fact we re-
cord that a few days after war was declared, forty families left the island
of Nantucket; and at Eastport, Me., out of 1,700 inhabitants, only four
or five families remained, the rest having fled inland with their movable
property. It might interest the reader to recount the prominent battles
of the War of 18 12 which took place on the lakes, on the Canadian
border, at the South, and also the wonderful naval engagements which

1 66 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

made the campaign at the very beginning so brilliant and successful.
But these pages must deal only with events that toucli our local history.
One such was the famous contest between the American frigate Consti-
tution (which was built by a New Bedford citizen, Capt. George Clag-
horn), and the British frigate Java, on December 29, 18 12. The fight
occurred off the coast of Brazil and proved to be one of the most terrific
encounters of the war, resulting in a complete victory for Commodore
Bainbridge and the brave crew of Old Ironsides, as she was ever after
called, for she came out of the conflict unscathed. The Java was blown
up, as it was not deemed prudent to carry her prize into a Brazilian
port, for Brazil was friendly to Great Britain. The Constitution re-
turned to Boston, and Commodore Bainbridge, his officers and crew,
were received with wild demonstrations of joy at the signal victory.

The importance of this event to the country was manifested in the
act of Congress which appropriated $50,000 as prize money for the
crew. While Commodore Bainbridge was receiving the ovations of
Boston, Lieut. George Parker, one of his officers, made a visit to his
wife Elizabeth, who was the daughter of Thomas Adams, of Fairhaven.
His sword, worn in the fight, is in the possession of the family. He re-
ceived the marked attention of the citizens on both sides of the river.
On March 2, 1813, he was tendered a public dinner at the Academy
hall, by the people of F"airhaven. This building is still standing on
Main street, just north of the Hawes homestead. On the afternoon of
the 4th, Lieutenant Parker was entertained in New Bedford. A pro-
cession was formed at 2 o'clock at Nelson's Hotel (then located where
now is Ricketson's block), consisting of a large and respectable body of
citizens. Thus reads the account : " Attended by an excellent band of
music from Taunton and escorted by a part of Capt. Stall's artillery
company, the procession marched to the bridge, where they received
the distinguished guest, who was accompanied by Lieut. King, com-
mander of the garrison at Fort Phoenix. He was greeted with repeated
cheers as he came oft" the bridge, and escorted to Nelson's Hotel, where
an excellent repast was furnished by the landlord." Great preparations
had been made for this occasion, and the hall was " decorated with tro-
phies and devices emblematic of the occasion." The record says " the
party was very harmonious, and hilarity and propriety marked the pro-

OVATION TO LIEUTENANT PARKER. 167

ceedings." The following toasts were received with marked applause
and accompanied with appropriate music. The reader will find them
well worth a perusal, for they bristle with allusions to men and events
that are important elements in our nation's history :

" 1. Our naval heroes— Hull, Jones, Decatur and Bainbridge. Their names will
stand inscribed on the roll of fame with Washington, Montgomery, Warren and Greene.

"2. Our gallant tars. It is not superior weight of metal, but better metal that gives
them victory.

" 3. A navy to protect commerce, and commerce to support a navy.

" 4. Commodore Rogers. We ask not Fortune to give him victory, but an opportu-
nity to earn it.

" 5. The memory of Lieutenant Awyer. While others hail the rising sun, we bow
to Iiim whose race is won.

'' 6. The memory of Commodore Preble. We recollect with pride and gratitude the
hero who first caused our name to be respected on a foreign shore.

" 7. Our National and State legislatures. May their wisdom equal the bravery of
our mariners.

" 8. French alliance. Tenfold more dreadful than British war.

" 9. An Algerine war. In times of peace with other nations it would be mere pas-
time to chastise the insolence of these Corsairs.

"10. A brisk exchange of prisoners. Our navy supplies the funds.

" 11. Our Constitution. May it be as well managed on the land as it has been on
the water.

" 12. The memory of Washington.

" 13. The memory of Hamilton and of Franklin. The former the hero of Yorktown,
the latter the friend of morality and science.

" 14. The President of the United States.

" 15. The Governor of Massachusetts.

" 16. The members of Congress who refused a donation to the gallant conquerors of
the Ouerriere. Those who have no gratitude to reward merit, can have no patriotism
to serve their country.

"17. A speedy peace with England on equitable and honorable terms.

'' 18. Russia. Rendered truly great by her successful opposition to the destroyer of
liberty."

After Lieutenant Parker had retired the closing toast was offered :
" Lieut. Parker and his brave associates. May our country reward
their services with something more substantial than praise."

The account says "many excellent volunteer sentiments received the
approbation of the company, but as they are but imperfectly recollected,
it would be but injustice to those who gave them to attempt a mutilated
publication. The committee of arrangements, on behalf of the com-

i68 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

pany, tender their compliments to the gentlemen of the Taunton band,
who politely graced the day by their attendance."

The original letter of reply to the invitation tendered the lieutenant
by the New Bedford committee of arrangements is in possession of Rob-
ert C. Ingraham, librarian of the Free Public Library. It read as follows:

" To L. Williams and David Leslie.

" G-entleraen — With pleasure I accept the polite invitation of dining with you on
Thursday next at the appointed hour. What little service I have been to my country at
present is mere nothing. But I am in hopes that before the war is over to have an
opportunity of doing honor to my country in any situation I may be placed in.
" Very respectfully, gentlemen,

" Tour obt. St., Geo. Parker."

The brilliant services of the lieutenant were recognized by the gov-
ernment, and he was placed in command of the Streti in 1814. He died
on board of this vessel shortly after she went to sea, July 12, 18 14.

The following is the roll of the artillery company that performed
escort duty on the occasion of Lieutenant Parker's reception.
Artillery Company, Second Brigade, Fifth Division, Stationed at New Bedford.

Officers.— Ca^tam, Samuel Stall ; first lieutenant, Frederick Mayhew ; second lieuten-
ant, Hayden Coggeshall; sergeants, Thomas Earl, George S. Dunham, Thomas Martin,
Jesse Haskell; corporals, David Kempton, Thomas Ellis, Peleg Clark, Watson Ellis;
drummer, George Caswell ; fifer, Russell Booth ; matross, John Wrightington.

Privates. — Charles Coggeshall, John Heath, Martin Hathaway, Ira Caswell, Wing
Howland, Thomas Maxfield, Warren Maxfield, Henry Cannon, Henry Place, Avery
Parker, Griffin Barney, jr., Barnabas Smith, James Howland 2d, Edmund Jackson, John
P. West, Lloyd Howland, Nash De Cost, Sylvanus Sowle, Isaac Kempton, Josiah
Smith, Abraham Pierce, James Cannon, Bryant Macoraber, Jonathan Giflbrd, Smith
Stetson, John Reynolds, Ezekel Tripp, Allen Sherman, Joseph L. Jenney, Richard
West, Isaac Smith.

In the month of June, 18 13, two United States gunboats arrived in
our harbor. They were schooner- rigged, were numbered 54 and 56,
and were commanded by two brothers, John and Charles Cousins. The
reader will understand from the following announcement, headed "New
Bedford Safe," in the Merairy of June 18, the estimation in which they
were held by the people :

" On Friday last two of those engines of destruction, commonly called gunboats, ar-
rived at this port. We understand they are to cruise in our harbor for the protection
of this port."

USELESS GUNBOATS. 169

At the commencement of the war the government was in possession
of a very considerable fleet of these vessels, and they performed effect-
ive service in keeping British privateers away from the coast, and
checked somewhat the raids attempted by boats and barges belonging
to British frigates upon the plantations and towns along the extensive
coast line. They were also useful in convoying coasting vessels and
protecting them from the boats of the enemj^'s cruisers, their service in
this direction being specially important in Long Island Sound. The
largest of these gunboats, of about ninety tons, was armed with one or
two long bow chasers. A large proportion were of smaller size and car-
ried a pivot gun of sixteen or twenty-four pound calibre, and were de-
pendent upon oars for motive power. As a means of serious defence
these "engines of destruction" were signal failures. They were useless
in rough weather, for the very weight of the gun caused the vessel to
careen in such a manner as to make effective aim impossible. In fair
weather, the first discharge of the bow chaser was the only effective one,
the recoil throwing the vessel out of position, making it necessary to
use the oars to bring her again into effective relation with the enemy.
In the interim, either the enemy's barges were making an uncomfortably
close acquaintance or were putting themselves into safe positions. It
is not surprising that but little confidence was felt in these gunboats as
a protection to our harbor; nor was this feeling strengthened by their
failure to attack the British brig Ninirod when she got ashore on Great
Ledge. The opportunity was a favorable one to do serious injury to
this craft that had given so much trouble on the coast. The gunboats
lay at anchor up the river, while the people grew sorrowful at the lost
opportunity.

George H. Taber relates that his father rode hastily down Sconticut
Neck, and found a number of people gathered on the shore, who were
watching the stranded vessel and endeavoring to organize an expedi-
tion to attack her. The Niinrod came off safely at high tide, however,
before the plans were completed. Capt. Russell Maxfield remembers
the event, and the expressions of indignation against the gunboats.
Their final departure from the port created no serious apprehensions of
of danger.

The presence of British cruisers on our coast not onl}' checked the

I70 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

ocean traffic, but the coasting vessels found it dangerous to pursue their
ordinary trips to New York, whence a large portion of the supplies for
the daily needs of the people were obtained. This condition became all
the more serious when the British war vessel Nimrod, commanded by
Captain Mitchell, made her cruising ground about our harbor, Martha's
Vine\'ard, Nantucket, and as far west as Newport. Her armament was
formidable for the time, consisting of sixteen 32-pounders, two long 9-
pounders and one i8-pounder. She had ample accommodations for a
large number of soldiers, and barges with which to transport them into
the rivers and inlets of our coast. This war vessel was a constant ter-
ror to the inhabitants, as will be shown in the progress of this story.

The closing of the port against all traffic, in 18 13, caused for a time
much inconvenience and trouble to the people. But it developed a new
mode of transportation that was unique if not original, and which must
have afforded a relief to the pressing wants of the people. This was the
" Wagon Brigade," formally recognized in the Mercury, dated Septem-
ber 24, 18 1 3, by the following article headed " Sailors' Rights and Free
Trade " :

" As it is customary for printers of newspapers in seaport towns to keep a diary of
the arrival and clearance of vessels, it may be thought by some of our readers tliat we
have latterly been inattentive in this respect. But the jugglers who stand at the helm
o£ government have been so successful in establishing the principle of the above motto
as to have driven all our vessels of burthen into dry dock; and the navigation of this
port is almost entirely confined to a few open boats. We, however, propose to keep a
journal of the arrival and departure of such craft as are employed in the transporta-
tion of goods, and any information in the line of this department with which we may
be favored will be duly attended to."

And so radiating from our villages by the sea were constant proces-
sions of loaded wagons, some of them extending their land voyages as
far west as Albany, which was a distant city in those days of the
stage coach. A few extracts taken from these weekly reports will
serve to give an intelligent idea of these operations and reveal the
peculiar character of some of them. Under the caption of "Horse
Marine News," September 12, 181 3, there was spoken a wagon from
Fairhaven standing to the northward with cargo of coffee. On the same
day, lat. 41.49, the same wagon was seen with signals of distress, having
been chased by the enemy and obliged to throw nearly the whole cargo

■HORSE MARINE NEWS:

171

overboard. The enemy was probably a custom-house officer. On the
same day a wagon was spoken bound from Boston to this port, " and
she might be expected in port with first northerly wind." September
17, arrived packet wagon Capt. Cole, from Boston, with cargo of dry
goods, and on the same date three wagons under convoy of Com. Phin-
ney, cleared and sailed with cargoes of brandy.

"A convoy of wagons, with families and household furniture, from
Nantucket, left Falmouth on September 19, 1813, for Ohio. They
were to touch at Sandwich for some others to join the fleet. The farms
of Nantucket men were formerly on the ocean, but Madison's war has
obliged them to take their land tacks on board and pass the mountains.
October 1st, a fleet bound to Ohio was spoken in the longitude of
Taunton." Here is an arrival that reveals how far these lines of trans-
portation extended. "October nth, arrived, a squadron under com-
mand of Admiral Heaton, consisting of seven square-rigged wagon ves-
sels, Capts. J. Bates, D. Bates, Whitcomb, Lyon, Cooledge and Sher-
man, eight days from Albany, with flour. Had good passage, except
Capt. Lyons' wagon springing a wheel spoke. Spoke nearly 100 sail
from this port, all in good health and well provisioned."

The following will be appreciated by nautical readers :

"Port of Boston, October 11, 1813. Arrived, two-horse wagon Teazer, Capt. Hnn-
tington, three days from New Bedford, with cal)le and pig iron to the captain. Spoke
on Saturday last, five leagues from New Bedford, in great distress, the wagon ' Pump,'
Capt. Clark, two days out from Boston, bound for New Bedford. He had experienced
considerable rough weather on the passage ; got on the flats at Bridgewater, and after
laying there, bowsprit under a few minutes, by the timely assistance of Capt. Gibbs,
who was passing in a small craft, was enabled to proceed to Assawamsett Pond, where
he was washing his bowsprit and horses, and repairing injuries done to his wagon. Oct.
10th, arrived, the regular packet wagons, Capts. Cole and Lyon, from Boston, with dry
goods. Spoke several coasters on the road, all singing the popular ditty,
" ' Our march is on the turnpike road,
Our home is at the Inn.' "

" Nov. 4th, 1813. Arrived and came to anchor at the head of Taber's wharf 3 square
rigged JefTersonian ships, (not gunboats) and one cartel lugger navigated by 4 oxen
each ; all from Dartmouth, laden with potatoes for a southern market. P. S. The
cattle were chained to anchor to prevent their running away while the teams were un-
loading."

"Nov. 23d, 1813. Arrived one 3-horse and two 4-horse wagons, 14 days from New
York. Experienced much bad weather and rough roads. About 10 days out was

172 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

boarded liy a snow storm, but after a short detention was permitted to proceed — slowly.
Same date, sailed one 3-horse and one 4-horse wagon, Stevens & Smith commanders,
with cargoes of sperm candles."

The latter item suggests one of the lines of business pursued at this
time. If tobacco, brandy and other articles of French manufacture could
not be claimed as home productions, sperm candles surely could be so
regarded. We fear that during this period there was a large amount of
illegal business done in foreign goods. The Embargo Act, passed by
Congress in December, 1813, placed still further restrictions upon the
already ruined traffic of our port.

The constant presence of British cruisers and privateers along the en-
tire coast had destroyed the ocean commerce and nearly all the coasting
trade. It was left for the Embargo Act to give the finishing touch. Its
enforcement practically closed the harbor to all seagoing craft. How
thoroughly it was carried out is shown by the following incidents:

" A man in an open boat from one of the Elizabeth Islands, coming to market in this
town, brought with him two bushels of corn to be ground, as there was no mill on the isl-
and. The collector by force of the embargo refused to grant him permission to carry
his meal home in his boat. A pergon from Falmouth in an open boat purchased in this
town a small quantity of iron for the tire of a pair of wheels. Having put his iron on
board of his boat, he was refused permission by the collector to proceed home until he
should reland his iron. A person came in here in a boat with .some oysters. Having
sold his oysters, he purchased with the proceeds two slates, a hat and half of a cheese,
but the collector refused to permit him to carry them home in his boat, and he was
X)bliged to deposit them in this town and leave them." — jV. B. Mercury.

THE PRIVATEERING FLEET.

CHAPTER XII.

WAR OF l8l2 CONTINUED.

Privateering — New Bedford Harbor a Haven for Privateers and Prizes — The
Yankee — Resolutions of the People Concerning Privateering — Defenceless Condi-
tion of New Bedford, and the Consequences — Doings of the Nimrod — The Revenge-
Retaliation — Bombardment of Falmouth — Militia Defenders — Attitude of the
Friends — False Alarms — The Attack of June 13, 18 14 — Details of the Affair — Fur-
ther Depredations — More of the Nimrod — Opinions of William C. Bryant — A Sad
Incident.

THAT history repeats itself was demonstrated in the War of 1812,
by the sudden development of that branch of warfare, " priva-
teering," so successfully carried on during the American Revolution.

The English government well understood that privateering would
play an important part in a contest with the United States. This ap-
prehension was expressed in a London journal, the Statesman, before
war was declared. It said : " America can not certainly pretend to
wage a maritime war with us. She has no navy to do it with. But
America has nearly a hundred thousand as good seamen as any in the
world, all of whom would be actively employed against our trade on
every part of the ocean, in their fast- sailing ships of war, many of
which will be able to cope with our small cruisers, and they will be
found to be sweeping the West Indian seas, and even carrying desola-
tion into the chops of the Channel."

A most formidable fleet did plow the seas and captured more than
1,500 vessels during the war. There were 251 regularly commissioned
privateers, beside a large number of private armed vessels, that pursued
this business. Of the former, fifty-eight sailed from Baltimore, fifty-
five from New York, forty from Salem, thirty-one from Boston, eleven
from Portsmouth, N. H., and one from Fairhaven. This was the Gov-
ernor Gerry, Capt. Joshua Hitch, and was owned by Hitch & Bradley.
She was a schooner of sharp model, a fast sailer, and thoroughly
equipped for the business. Her career was, however, of short duration.

174 . HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

After landing a cargo of silks and other valuable goods in some French
port, she came out July 29, 18 13, and ran directly into a fleet of British
men-of-war. She was given chase and only surrendered after she had
carried away all her spars. The favorable situation of our harbor made
it again available as a rendezvous for the privateers, and during the war
it was made a convenient port for recruiting and for running in the cap-
tured prizes. Public auction sales of prize vessels and their cargoes
were of frequent occurrence at the wharves on both sides of the river.

It is recorded that, in September, 18 13, the Shaving Mill, generally
called the Handsaw, had sailed for Boston on a cruise. Why this pri-
vateer was called the Shaving Mill has not been ascertained. Her
name was the Camelion. She was probably nicknamed the Handsaw
from the fact that at a public gathering in Fairhaven one of her owners
offered the following toast : " Our enemies — May they be lathered with
aquafortis and shaved with a handsaw."

This vessel was built on the south shore of Oxford Point, just east of
the present residence of Charles H. Gifford, the marine artist. Charles
Eldredge gave the writer the following facts regarding it : The Shaving
Mill was an open boat about forty feet long, with lateen sails, was a
fast sailer, and was well provided with sweeps for rapid pulling. Water
was carried in tiny casks that could be easily stowed ; strapped together
in pairs, they were conveniently fitted to take ashore to be filled. The
armament was one swivel bow chaser, and the crew were well armed.
Messrs. George Whitfield and Francis Neil were among those who
played the part of " jolly privateers " in this craft. Her operations
were along shore within easy reach of safe harbors. It is said that
when on the coast of Maine she was closely pursued one day by the
enemy, the Shaving Mill was run ashore and the crew stranded in a
cornfield. This story is given on the authority of Capt. George Neil,
whose father was one of the sailors.

Arrivals and departures of privateers were occasional during 1813,
and largely increased in 1814. l^'ebruary 25, 1814, the British brig
Britamtia, Skidmore prize-master, came into the port. She was one of
the nine prizes captured hy the privateer Mars, Captain Ingersoll, of
New York. On March 12, the private armed schooner Viper, Cap-
tain Dethenbade, dropped anchor in our harbor, having captured a few

THE '' YANKEE." 175

days before, February 22, the British ship Victory, of London. On
July 15, 1 8 14, the privateer brig Yankee, Captain Snow, arrived at this
port after a four months' cruise, having captured seven vessels. Among
them was the Portuguese ship St. Jose Iitdiano, which had already come
into our harbor. The Yankee had captured on May 14 the British
ship Hugh Jones, with a valuable cargo of piece-goods and provisions.
Ninety- five cases of articles were taken out and the vessel ordered into
Savannah.

The Yankee was one of the most famous of the privateering fleet.
She belonged in Bristol, R. I., and was owned by a Mr. D'Wolfe. Af-
ter a single cruise of 150 days on the coast of Africa, she came home,
after capturing eight prizes, with thirty-two bales of fine goods, six tons
of ivory and $40,000 in gold dust. The total value of the cargo was
■ $300,000.

The late Thomas Durfee gave the writer an interesting episode con-
nected with this noted craft. He, with other boys, was attracted to the
river front one Sunday morning to see this bold privateer as she lay ofif
Taber's wharf. A tempting invitation to take a sail in the harbor was
made to the boys by Officer Smith, who was in command, as Captain
Snow had gone ashore. As was found out afterward, the crew had
been discharged. Eagerly did the boys accept, Durfee among the rest,
and the Yankee sailed down the bay. The lads gladly made themselves
useful in the many ways suggested by Lieutenant Smith, his orders
being transmitted to the fresh crew through Billy Haffbrds, one of their
number, who had once been on a sea voyage. When off Round Hills,
Lieutenant Smith discovered the British brig Nintrod looming in the
distance, and for most excellent reasons he ordered about ship, and
made a lively trip homeward. As they neared the wharf they were
blandly informed by the lieutenant that but for this occurrence he in-
tended to carry them to Bristol, from which place they would have to
walk home to New Bedford. Mr. Durfee says the Yankee carried a
24- pounder midships and two carriage guns on either side, and was a
formidable craft.

The prosecution of the privateering business and the free-handed use
of this harbor in its interests brought with it a train of evils that created
much alarm among the inhabitants. In September, 18 13, a vessel ar-

176 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

rived in our harbor, was thoroughly recruited, and a crew shipped os-
tensibly for a voyage to New Orleans. She was cleared September
26 and lay at anchor in the lower harbor, when it was ascertained that
she was the French privateer Cleopatra, alias Bellona, with evil inten-
tions toward American as well as towards English vessels. She showed
her teeth by stopping the Rosetta, Captain Gibbs, of this port, as she
came up the river. Pistol shots were fired at Captain Gibbs, and he was
threatened with a broadside. The incident created great commotion in
the town. When the crew had ascertained her real character, they re-
belled and refused duty, and finally it resulted in their being put ashore
at Newport. It is evident that the arrival of the noted privateer Yankee
brought matters to a crisis, and was the immediate cause of the call for
a town meeting that was held July 21, 18 14 The action taken at this
gathering of the people vividly portrays the serious condition of affairs,
and the sentiments of the community regarding it.

" It was voted unanimously, as expressive of the sense of the inhabitants of this town,
that inasmuch as we have uniformly disapproved of the unpolitic, unnecessary and
ruinous war in which the United States are engaged, we have considered it our duty to
abstain, and have scrupulously abstained from all interest and concern in sending out
private armed vessels to harass the commerce of the enemy, and from voluntary acts
which appeared to us to have a tendency to prolong the duration, encourage the pros-
ecution, or increase the ravages of the ' unprofitable contest ' ; that we have seen
with disapprobation several private armed vessels, belonging to other ports taking shel-
ter in our peaceful waters, and regret that we have not the authority of law wholly to
exclude them from our harbor, where they serve to increase our dangers, and to excite
tumult, disorder, riot and confusion.

"Voted, unanimously, as expressive of the sense of the town, that private armed
vessels, while cruising in various climates, and visiting ships and vessels from every
country, are extremely liable to contract and receive on board infectious diseases, and
that in all such cases there is reason to suspect that such vessels and the persons, bag-
gage, clothing and goods on board may be infected with some contagious distemper.

" Voted, unanimously, as expressive of the sense of the inhabitants of this town, that
the safety of the inhabitants thereof requires that any private armed vessel or vessels
which shall arrive or be bound into the harbor of New Bedford, from any port or place,
shall be required to perform quarantine during a term of not less than forty days; and
that the Selectmen and Health Committee of the town be requested to cause all such
vessels to perform quarantine at such places as they shall appoint and under such re-
strictions and regulations as they may judge expedient.

" Voted. That the privateer called the Yankee, now in this port to be ordered by the
Selectmen immediately to quarantine ground, to be designated by them, for forty days.

PERILOUS CONDITION OF NEW ENGLAND. 177

" Voted. That the town will indemnify the Selectmen from all harm which may ac-
crue 10 them in the execution of their duties in enforcing the quarantine laws as well
in regard to the Yankee privateer as all other vessels.

"Voted. That the following persons be a Committee of Safety, whose business it
will be to advise and direct in measures that may best secure the peace and safety of
the town in case of an invasion by an enemy : Roger Haskell, William Hathaway,
Roland R. Crocker, Lemuel Williams, jr., Lewis Ludlam, Samuel Perry, Francis Rotch,
James Washburn, John A Parker, Cornelius Grinnell."

Changes in the condition of affairs in Continental Europe, during the
year 1814, set free a number of naval and other vessels in the English
service, and their attention was quickly turned toward the United
States. Our New England coast swarmed with British frigates, gun
brigs and privateers. The seaboard towns and villages were in a help-
less condition, for the general government had withdrawn all ineans
of defence, the troops being engaged in the invasion of Canada.
What aggravated still more the j^erilous condition of New England was
the fact that the United States authorities had withdrawn all supplies
from the militia, on which she had to depend for her own defence. A
supply of ammunition was refused Fort I'hcenix, July 8. The reader
may judge that these were alarming times for our town, for during the
year 18 14 a thousand troops were stationed along our shores, five hun-
dred arriving on September 25 and 26 from the northern part of the
county. The presence of such an arined force indicated that the serious
apprehensions occasioned by the presence of such a fleet of armed cruis-
ers were wcil founded. How New Bedford was directly affected will
be seen in the many captures made of her vessels.

On July 8 twenty Cape Cod boats, loaded with corn and flour from
New York, sought refuge in our harbor. Jtfly 13 schooner Night Haivk
of Apponagansett was captured by barges from the English frigate
Superb. The American privateer Ultor, Capt. Lane, came into Fair-
haven for repairs ; when she cleared, she took among her crew several
Fairhaven men, among them Mr. Tripp Taber. When off Watch
Hill, July 19, an attempt was made by two barges belonging to the
frigate Superb to board the Ultor. No answer being given to their
hail, the Ultor fired a brisk volley of musketry at them. This reception
seemed to be a surprise, for the larger barge, with thirty men, made a
quick retreat, and the other was captured with ten men. It was found

178 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

that one of their number, a midshipman, had been killed. His body was
taken into Stonington and buried. On July 20 schooner Maria, Capt.
Hillman, was taken by British privateer Saratoga, and released.
August 23 two barges and a launch from the British frigate Poniotia
came up the bay and captured a sloop just out of Dartmouth.

The two gunboats and an armed smack went down to encounter the
enemy, and it is recorded that the gunboats actually fired several shots.
It is the only statement found where they did practical service. It
should be said that they did patrol duty in the night in the harbor, their
barges constantly moving about and boarding any craft that attempted
to come up the river. September 15 sloop Cliauncey, Capt Rowland,
was taken in Long Island Sound. A passenger, Griffith Barney, jr., was
m§de prisoner and sent to Melville prison at Halifax. October i
sloop Rover, Capt. Reynard, was captured by British schooner Whiting.
October 28 she took the sloop Philadelphia ; and on the same day
schooner Fair Trader, Capt. Allen, was captured by British privateers
Liverpool Packet and Rolla, off Narragansett beach. December 28
brig Mary, Capt. George Hitch, was captured four hours after leaving
port. January 6, 181 5, sloop New York, Capt. Clark, of Fairhaven, was
taken oft" Newport by British brig Despatch. March 3 British brig
Flying Fish arrived in our harbor a prize to American privateer David
Porter. She had $100,000 of cargo of dry goods, hardware, and spices.
March 29 the schooner Russell, Capt. Vibbert, arrived ninety-six
days from Canton, with full cargo of teas, silk, etc. March i she was
chased for twelve hours by a frigate and brig, but by throwing over-
board her guns she easily outsailed them. When off Gayhead she spoke
the Spanish brig Virgin Mary, thirteen days from Matanzas, and was
informed that peace was declared. Her safe arrival caused much rejoic-
ing in the town, for the Russell was built here, and this was her first
voyage. Her cargo was of great value, and her capture would have
been a serious loss.

While the English naval and privateering vessels inflicted serious
damage on our coasting trade, as has been illustrated by the accounts
given of captures of vessels coming and going from this port (and the
list is not by any means complete), it remained for the British hngNim-
rod. Captain Mitchell, to be the reigning terror to New Bedford and the

DEPREDATIONS OF THE '• NIMROD:' 179

whole southeastern coast. So connected were her operations with
neighboring harbors, that it is necessary to include in this account much
that is not local in character. The Ninircd mounted sixteen 34-pound-
ers, two long nines, and one iS-pounder, and was a most formidable
vessel for her day.

The Niinrod made her appearance oft' our coast in 1S13. The first
record we find of her work is December 6, when the schooner Hitta
Franklin arrived in this harbor. On the Sunday night previous, at
two o'clock, she was captured ofif Tarpaulin Cove by the Ninirod. Her
commander. Captain Mitchell, proposed a ransom, which Captain
Kelley assured him was out of his power. The schooner was delayed
for some time and finally released with the loss of her anchor, cable,
and other articles. Captain Kelley and his crew were treated with
great kindness by Captain Mitchell. At this time the Nimrod had in
her toils the ship Chili of Nantucket, from the South Sea, with 1,240
barrels of oil. On Sunday evening, while off Gayhead, five boats full of
men undertook to recapture her, but a fire of musketry from the ship
led them to abandon this plucky attempt. April 5, 1814, sloop Sally
Hallet was captured by the Ninirod. June 3 a Swedish brig, the Caro-
lus Magnus, sailed from this port, was boarded in the bay by the Nini-
rod and ordered back. The 74- gun frigate Superb and the gun brig
Recruit were, in connection with the Nimrod, making things lively all
along the coast.

Saturday, June 6, several gentlemen belonging to this town made
an excursion to the islands in Pilot boat No. i. If the day's outing had
proved to be one of great enjoyment to this company of pleasure-seek-
ers, and it is fair to suppose it had, their fun soon ended, for on their re-
turn they were captured by a barge from the Ninirod, carrying twenty-
two men and propelled by eighteen oars. After being detained some
time, they all, with the exception of Captains Simeon Price and Ste-
phen Potter, were released and probably put ashore at Woods Hole, for
the pilot boat was seen there at anchor several days after the capture.
She was finally given up to Captains Price and Potter, and they brought
into our port the crew of a Spanish brig that had been seized by the
Nimrod for attempting to enter Newport harbor after being warned off
by the blockading squadron. August 5 the Nimrod captured sloop

i8o HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Eagle, Captain Stowell, off Point Juditli, and on tlie 6th took five open
boats off Watch Hill. One of these belonged to Jonathan Card, of Fair-
haven. September 4 she captured schooner Maria, with a cargo of salt
fish; and September 10, off Point Judith, she took four boats, all belong-
ing to this port.

The ship Harmony, an East Indiaman of Philadelphia, cleared from
this port some time in 18 14. On one of her voyages she was hotly
chased by the Ninirod into the bay. Hugging the shore closely, care-
fully directed by the pilot, William Slocum, of Nashawena, the Harmony
was brought safely along and succeeded in deceiving the Ninirod, which
went ashore high and dry on the rocks off Round Hills. Hon. Weston
Howland says that this exciting affair was witnessed by his brother,
Hon. Abraham H. Howland, the first mayor of our city, then a mere
lad. He and the others were in the observatory on School street at the
time, eagerlj'^ watching the race, and when the Ninirod grounded, the
glad -news was greeted with a round of cheers. " I saw the Harmony,"
said Thomas Durfee, " when she sailed up to Rotch's wharf, and her
sails were perforated with cannon shot. She* was taken above the bridge
and moored in the stream. Among the articles in her cargo was a lot
of skins, which were taken to Boston in the sloop Boston, Capt. Philip
Mosher; and I remember that when she cleared it was in a driving
snow storm."

Another capture made by the Ninirod, January 3, 181 5, of the
schooner Horizon, Captain Potter, is on record. George H. Taber re
lates an interesting fact in the Nimrod's history. In 1840 he was mate
of ship Samuel Robertson of this port, and when in Mobile Bay he saw
this famous vessel taking in a cargo of cotton. She was still under the
British flag.

Among the privateers that played an important part on our coast
during these troublesome times was one that originally sailed from Sa-
lem under the Yankee flag. The Revenge (for that was her name) was
captured and turned into a British privateer under the significant name
of Retaliation. Her cruising ground was along Cape Cod, Martha's
Vineyard, and Long Island. Early in October, 18 13, she captured seven
or eight boats belonging to Cape Cod. The owners of these craft or-
ganized an expedition consisting of three boats and twenty armed men,

';^^^^^

THE '^ RETALIATION" AFFAIR. i8i

and went in search. On the afternoon of October i6 they discovered
two of their boats and twelve or fourteen men on the shore at Naushon,
who were making preparations to spend the night. On the approach
of the Cape Cod boats the privateersnien took to the woods. Two of
them were captured, however, and also some loaded muskets, pistols,
and swords, which had been left in the boats. The prisogjers were taken
to Falmouth and thence to Boston. The Retaliation soon came to grief
as a Britisher and again sailed the ocean under American colors. This
is how it came about.

On the evening of October 22 the schooner Clementine, from Den-
nis, arrived in this harbor. The day before, when near Woods Hole,
she was boarded by a boat with five armed men from the Retaliation,
who ordered the captain and his crew of five sailors to "pickup their
duds and go ashore." While pretending to obey this command they
were watching their chances, and when the favorable moment arrived
they each seized a man and in a twinkle the confident victors found
themselves prisoners. The next day the Clementine came up the bay
and delivered the prisoners to the commandant at Fort Phoenix. These
events did not escape the attention of the people along the Falmouth
shore, and it soon came to their knowledge that the Retaliation
was lying at Tarpaulin Cove with but twelve men on board. This
was an opportunity not to be disregarded, and no time was lost
in organizing an expedition to capture her. A force of fifty
men from Falmouth, under the command of Capt. Weston Jenkins,
soon sailed for Tarpaulin Cove, where they found the privateer Retalia-
tion at anchor. Placing his volunteers below decks, out of sight, and
with but one man and himself on deck, Captain Jenkins approached the
enemy and dropped anchor some distance from her. A boat with the
captain and six men soon put off" from the Retaliation. In answer to
inquiries made, Captain Jenkins replied that he was from Nantucket.
They came quickly alongside, calculating that the vessel would be an
easy capture. At the signal given by Captain Jenkins the men tum-
bled up from below and made prisoners of the astonished privateers-
men. Taking possession of the Retaliation, they sailed for Falmouth.

The year 1 8 14 was filled with exciting events. Not only the villages
in our own harbor, but the towns and hamlets of the neighboring coast

i82 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

felt the keen sufferings of relentless war and the terrors incident to in-
vasion and pillage. Individuals may have prospered on the spoils of
this needless war, but the burdens and cruelties imposed on the people
were grievous to bear. Such were the sad experiences of Falmouth.

January 28, 18 14, the town of Falmouth was bombarded by the
British gun brig, Nimrod. The particular cause for this severe chas-
tisement was her sturdy resistance to the devastating operations of the
English vessels. Early in the morning the Nimrod came out of Tar-
paulin Cove, and at ten o'clock anchored abreast of the town. Captain
Mitchell sent ashore, under a flag of truce, an imperative demand for
the surrender of the two field pieces that had served to protect the vil-
lage from the enemy. At the same time he demanded that the Nan-
tucket mail sloop, then lying at the wharf, should be surrendered. The
authorities of the town firmly refused to accede to these demands.
They were then notified that two hours would be granted for the re-
moval of women and children, at the expiration of which Captain
Mitchell promised that the bombardment would begin.

At once the village was in the wildest excitement. The hastily sum-
moned militia, as they came into the town to assist in its defence, were
met by processions of women, children and the sick, who were all seek-
ing refuge. During these hours the meager preparations for security
were being completed. An entrenchment was thrown up, behind which
many of the inhabitants retreated during the bombardment. The flag
of truce passed to and fro, but without results, for the people were firm
and would not submit. At noonday the Nimrod unmasked her bat-
teries and the cannonade of the town was opened. All the afternoon
shot and shell were thrown into the village, damaging many of the
houses and destroying much property. Nor did the firing cease till
some time after sunset. The next morning the Nimrod took her de-
parture westward probably to join a man-of-war then lying at Tarpaulin
Cove. Among the residences that were injured were those of Capt. John
Crocker, Elijah Swift, Silas James, Thomas Brown, Ichabod Hatch,
Shubael Hatch, jr., and Rev. Henry Lincoln. The salt works, located
along the shore, received the especial attention of the batteries, and
were much damaged.

Captain Crocker evidently was a leading spirit of the town, for his

DEFENDERS OF NEW BEDFORD. 1S3

house was complimented with no less than eight 32-pound shot that
were sent crashing through tlie building, destroying a large part of the
furniture. It is said that when the first of these made entrance, Captain
Crocker, who did not desert his castle during the siege, coolly took a
chair and seated himself at the aperture, expressing his belief in the
safety of his action by saying that shot wouldn't strike twice in the
same place. For most convincing reasons, Captain Crocker changed
his mind in regard to this generally accepted theory. Having occasion
to go to another part of the house, he and his chair had but parted
company, when crash came another 32-pounder through the same hole.

About thirty houses were injured during the bombardment. It is a
remarkable fact that not a single life was lost, though several had nar-
row escapes. More than 250 round shot were picked up that had been
thrown into the village by the Nimrod.

The troops stationed in New Bedford for the town's defense during
the year 18 14 have been mentioned. The were commanded by Lieut-
Col. Benjamin Lincoln. Among his staff officers who were residents of
the town were Maj. Edward Pope, Major of Artillery John Cogge-
shall, Surgeon Samuel Perry, and Quartermasters William Kempton
and Elijah Wilbour. The regimental records of Lieutenant- Colonel
Lincoln (afterwards major-general) are in the possession of our Free Pub-
lic Library, and were presented to this institution by Mrs. Caroline Whit-
ridge, daughter of Major- General Lincoln.

The Head-of-the-River company (Acushnet), commanded by Cap-
tain Reuben Swift, was stationed at Clark's Cove and along the shores
of Clark's Point, the lines extending to the Smoking Rocks on the east
side.

The following is the roster of tl'.e company taken from an original
pay-roll in possession of Jireh Swift, jr.:

Captain, Reuben Switt; lieutenant, .Job Millard; ensign, Seth Bumpus; sergeants,
William Swift, James Ripner, Allen Bourne, Allen Chase, Zenas Cowen, Nathaniel
Spooner, Thomas Hathawa_v, Thomas Collins; musicians, Joseph Purrington, Noah
Waste, fiters; Thomas B. Smith, drummer; privates, Elijah Parker, James Omans,
William Hathaway, Joseph H. Jenne, Oliver Walcott, Peter Taber, Elias Hoard, Cor-
nelius Pope, Phillip Reynolds, John Hunter, Russell Pierce, Lemuel B. Ormsby, Paul
Gifford, Silas Pettis, Samuel Hammond, Samuel J. Tobey, John Freeman, James
Davis, jr., Timothy Howland, Enoch Weston, John Williams, Nathan Brightman, Asa

1 84 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Crapo, John Myrick, Humphrey Russell, Henry Rider, Joshua Winslow, Ahel Snell,
John Allen, Stephen Samson, James Upham, Israel Chase, Abiel Crapo, Benjamin Rey-
nolds, John Andrews, Benjamin S. Hathaway, Gardner Allen, Abraham Allen, Richard
Winslow, Leonard Snell, Arnold Thomas, John Curamings, Jonathan Gifford, Calvin
Wheeler, Joseph Chase, Stephen Winj^, Lot Strange, Jonathan Hipgins, William K.
Greene, George Douglass, Alden Gilford, Edmund Jackson, David Weaden, John Eddy,
Holder Mosher, Lemuel P. Reed, Major Pool, Stephen Sherman, John Edminster,
William Tobey, James Wood, Stephen Wing 2d, Jos'hua Spooner, Stillman Washburn,
Mioah Spooner, Geurdon Demmings, Abraham Reynolds, Abiel Jones, jr., Ira Phillips,
William Cowen, Isaac Babcock, Nathaniel Woddell, Isaac Case, jr., Jonathan Whalen,
Uriah Sherman, James Burden, Sylvester Burt, Job White, Abiathar Pool, Ebenezer
Tripp, Noah Reynolds, Alden Reed, Richard Mosher, Daniel Whalen, jr., William Rey-
nolds, jr., Samuel Reed, jr., Simeon Burt, Holder Burden, Rufus Tripp, Gideon Mosher.

The monthly pay for service was as follows: Captain, $40; lieuten-
ant, $30; ensign, $20; sergeant, $ii; private, $8; musician, $9.

Capt. Rodolphus N. Swift relates a camp incident that he heard his
father, who commanded the company, tell with great glee. His friend,
Thomas Riddell, a sergeant of Captain Nelson's infantry company, and
a well-known citizen, resolved to make a visit to him while in camp at
Clark's Point. On his way down he was given a sheep by a generous-
hearted farmer to present to the company mess. Cheerfully accepting
the mission, and feeling that his visit would be doubly welcome, he
shouldered the mutton and resumed his journey. It was night when he
reached the lines. Trudging down the road, no doubt contemplating
with satisfaction the pleasure he was to give his fellow soldiers, he was
suddenly halted by a vigilant sentinel, made prisoner, and marched into
the presence of Captain Swift as a "sheep- stealer." Explanations were
followed by roars of laughter, and the closely-guarded prisoner was set
free A royal feast was enjoyed by the company mess. It is not stated
whether Mr. Riddell joined the banqueters, but it was many a year be-
fore he heard the last of this episode in which he figured so promi-
nently. Capt. Reuben Swift's sword is now in possession of his son,
Mr. William C N. S .i.!:

The position of the Society of F'riends, " Resistance to taxes for war
purposes," maintained during the American Revolution, was continued
during the War of 1812. New Bedford capitalists were very largely of
this faith, and the demands of the collectors were persistently refused.
It was no enviable position for these representatives of the United

REFUSAL OF QUAKERS TO PAY TAXES. 185

States government, and their experience must have been of a disagree-
able character. Abraham Barl<er used to express his views upon the
subject by relating the following story: " He said that during the War
of 18 1 2, his father and another person were appointed to collect the
taxes in this town. Every Quaker whom they called on refused to pay,
on conscientious grounds. On their rounds of duty, the collectors
came upon one man to whom the\' prefaced their application by stating
that they supposed he would refuse to pa\' as all other Friends had
done, but they nevertheless deemed it their duty to call upon him.
After considering the matter for a little time, he astonished them with
the reply that he should not decline to pay the tax. The spokesman
was led to inquire how it happened that he could conscientiously pay
when the others had refused. He answered, 'The fact is that the money
has got to go through so many hands like thine and Stephen Barker's,
I have no fears that any of it will ever be used for war expenses.' "

New Bedford, like all New England, paid reluctantly what was con-
tributed towards sustaining this war with the British Crown.

The sad experiences of Bedford village and Fairhaven during the
British invasion of September 5, 1778, had left a powerful impression
on their inhabitants. Many were still living and participating in the
active affairs of the War of 1812 who suffered the sad experiences of
that day. The younger generation must have been imbued with mem-
ories of these events, transmitted through the traditions told at the fire-
sides. That this was true is illustrated by the manifestations of fear
frequently exhibited during the eventful months of 1814. Reports of
the presence of war vessels in the vicinity were brought in by arriving
craft, and kept the communities in a constant state of agitation.

In the middle of April tjie British war vessels. Victorious, Emiyviioit
and Peacock made their appearance in Vineyard Sound. On wings of
the wind the fact was brought to our community, and with it the report
that the fleet was to operate against New Bedford. Though the report
proved to be without foundation, for the fleet left the sound April 20,
its effect was fruitful in thoroughly alarming the people on both sides
of the river. Many families packed their household goods and con-
veyed them to places of safety. Ships and other sailing craft were
moved up the river, and every precaution taken to place them beyond
24

i86 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

the range of the guns of the enemy. The garrison at Fort Phcenix
was alive with activity in putting the fort in trim, while the militia were
busy in completing their preparations for the defence of the town.

The throngs of people who yearly picnic at the fort in the lovely
summer days can little appreciate how important was their rock of de-
fence to the villagers on either side of the river at this period. At the
present day this little redoubt, with its battery of small guns, may seem
to have been of puny strength. But let our readers remember, when
they shall be tempted to look with ridicule upon this fortification, that
in the times of the American Revolution and the War of 1812, it was
in reality a tower of defence to our harbor, and was justly looked upon
as being equal to any emergency that might arise. There can be no
question but that Fort Phcenix, with its garrison, was an effective men-
ace to the fleets of war vessels hovering in our bay during the times of
which we write. But the enemy came not ; in a few days peace and
quiet were restored, and the affairs of the towns moved on as before.
This peaceful condition was of limited duration, for the advent of the
State troops weekly arriving in the town served to keep matters in com-
motion and prepared the people for the ruder shock that occurred a few
weeks later on.

On Monday morning, June 13, 1814, the guns at Fort Phcenix
sounded an alarm, announcing the approach of seven or eight barges
from the British brig, Nimrod. The weather being hazy the boats were
not discovered till they were close in to the fort. The towns on both
sides of the river were at once in wild commotion, and preparations
were made to receive the enemy. The militia gathered in force, and
had the enemy attempted to land he would have met with a warm
reception. Tt is evident that the enemy was aware of this, for the
flotilla of barges soon withdrew from the river and proceeded eastward
to effect (it is supposed) a landing at Mattapoisett. The sudden ap-
pearance of the loaded barges caused intense excitement among the
people. The defenceless portion of the community was taken into the
suburbs, the roads leading out of the town were alive with wagons
loaded with women, children, the sick, and household goods, and eve-
rywhere was panic and confusion. Charles Eldredge said : " I was
seven years old when this event took place, and I well remember the

CONSTERNATION OF THE PEOPLE. 187

consternation that prevailed among the families on the other side of the
river. I was taken in the arms of my father's housekeeper and carried
toEphraim Pope's house at Naskatucket, where our famil)' remained until
the excitement over the event had subsided."

Capt. Warren Delano, with his three sons, Warren, Frederick and
Franklin, called at the house of Silas Allen, and taking his daughter
Rebecca with him in his chaise, drove to Long Plain.' Here he left the
four children in charge of a friendly farmer and awaited the anticipated
attack on the village. That night all four of the little ones slept in the
same bed with the good woman of the house. The farmhouses scat-
tered along the frontier of the towns were objective points to the refu-
gees, and proved to be asylums of rest for the weary and helpless. Sa)s
our friend, George H. Taber: "Our house" (the same in which he
now resides at Oxford village) "was filled all day long with neighbors
from the village, who had fled from their homes." The venerable Mrs.
Rachel Samson says that she was at the little school-house, then located
on the corner of North and Main streets, in Oxford village, when the
guns at Fort Phoenix sounded this alarm. The session came to a
speedy close, and the children, filled with frantic fear, sped to their
homes. When Mrs. Sampson arrived at her father's (Richard Wood's)
house, she found it filled with people from the lower village. Some of
them stayed all night ; and she remembers that the front hall stairs were
occupied by a number of children, who slept through the weary hours,
with their little heads pillowed on the stairs above them. Her father
was making preparations to shave, and was in the act of warming water
in a skillet by the fire when the guns boomed their notes of warning.
He sensibly postponed the completion of his toilet, and buckling on his
regimentals, hied away to the village to join his milita company. These
incidents may not be of much value, perhaps, but they serve to show

■ This young miss was the late Mrs. Thomas C. Stoddard, of Fairhaven, who died in 1890 at the
age of eighty-two. She related a story of Capt. Noah Stoddard, who one day visited Fort Phoenix
in an official capacity. As he approached the officers' quarters he saw a man apparently transact-
ing some business with an officer in charge. Looking through a window, he saw them secrete a
paper lin the table drawer, upon hearing his approach. Entering the room Captain Stoddard de-
manded the paper, which«proved to be a pass granted by the fort officer to a New Bedford mer-
chant, allowmg passage for his vessel to the lower harbor for the purpose of supplying the en-
emy's war vessel with fresh provisions. The sequel was the marching of the fort officer through
the town on the following day, on his way to Boston for trial.

1 88 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

the terrified condition of the people during these days of anticipated in-
vasion by the enemy.

A party of mihtia marched to the assistance of the people at Matta-
poisett, but the barges passed that place, the enemy showing no dispo-
sition to land. On the afternoon of June 13, a meeting of the citizens
of Bedford village was held to consult upon the grave condition of af-
fairs and to adopt additional means for the defence of the town. Guards
were stationed at different points, who were charged with the duty of
giving prompt alarm on the approach of the enemy during the night.
We may well suppose that little sleep came to the disturbed house-
holds during these weary hours, for at night the signal guns from the
fort sent out again their notes of alarm, and once more were renewed
the scenes of terror, intensified by the blackness of night. " They are
vividly before me now," said Thomas Durfee. " My father then
lived on Johnny Cake hill (Bethel street), and my room was on the
south side of the house and overlooked the river. At the boom of the
first gun I leaped from my bed, and saw the flash of the second as I
stood at the window. Hastily dressing, I rushed down stairs, where I
found the household in the most intense fright, my mother walking the
floor and wringing her hands in terror. I made good time in reaching
Captain Nelson's, where I obtained my order for arms and ammunition,
and joining the military company, marched to the river and waited
in vain for the enemy to land." The cause of this second alarm was
the report brought in by a man from the Vineyard who said he saw
two barges a mile or two this side of Black Rock. A statement was
made by the captain of a Swedish vessel, who boarded the Ninirod a
few days after to obtain permission to clear his vessel from this port,
that they had come for the express purpose of capturing the fort and to
burn and destroy the shipping in the harbor, but not being able to ar-
rive before daylight they suspended operations till a more favorable
occasion.

After the British barges had left the harbor they proceeded up the
bay, and under a flag of truce effected a landing at Wareham Narrows
at 1 1 o'clock A. M. The invading force consisted o( 225 armed men in
six barges. Their coming was not unexpected, for information of it
had reached the town early in the morning. The surrender of the pub-

INCIDENTS OF THE INVASION. 189

lie buildings was peremptoril)' demanded, and the threat made that
should the troops be in any manner interfered with, every house within
reach should be burned. The demands of the enemy were acceded to,
for the town was unable to make any resistance. To make their posi-
tion doubly secure, the British seized several men and boys who were
detained as prisoners, and the enemy declared that they should be put
to death if the promises were violated. After stationing sentinels back
of the village, the soldiers proceeded with their work of destruction.
Twelve vessels were set on fire, five of which were totally consumed.
The torch was applied to the cotton factory, but the flames were extin-
guished soon after the enemy's departure. It was estimated that $25,-
000 damage was done to the property in the town. These facts were
gathered from accounts of the affair that bear the date of June 17,
1 8 14, and over the signatures of the selectmen of the town, Benjamin
Bourne and Benjamin Fearing.

The story is told of Billy Freeman, a character of this town, that,
observing a squad of soldiers in Squire Fearing's cornfield, he mounted
a fence and shouted to the representatives of the British crown, " Say
now, you'd better get out of that lively, for if Squire Fearing catches yer
he'll give yer h — 1." This threat did not seem to alarm the soldiers,
for they continued in their work of destruction. When the enemy had
departed, some one told Billy that the invaders were English soldiers.
This information fairly paralyzed the fellow for a time, and when he had
sufficiently recovered, he put straight for the adjoining woods and was
not seen again for several days. Billy was well known all about the
neighboring towns for his wit and humor. One day he called at Hum-
phrey Taber's store, at Long Plain, to get his mug of cider from the
barrel that in the season was always kept on free tap. Mr. Taber drew
a large pitcher full and from it poured a glass for him. Disposing of
this, Billy took up the pitcher and drained it to the bottom. The pro-
prietor gazed at him with a look of indignation and remarked, " I didn't
mean all that for you ! " "I didn't mean to drink it all," said Billy,
"but the cider was so hard that I couldn't bite it off."

The passage up the bay of this flotilla of armed British barges carried
terror to the inhabitants along shore, and every little community was
thrown into the wildest excitement. The arrival of the militia from the

190

HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

inland towns added to the confusion that reigned everywhere ; and tlie
inspiring strains of drum and fife, heard along the roads leading to the
coast, made the day one long to be remembered. It happened on this
very eventful morning that a happy thought came to the young wife of
Tilson Denham, then a resident of Rochester town, and for many years
afterward a citizen of New Bedford. It was a lovely day to visit her
mother at Great Neck, Sippican, the good old name of Marion. It was
not long before she was mounted on her saddle-horse, and with her
babe in her arms was cantering off through the woods, joyous in the an-
ticipation of her visit to the old homestead. As she emerged from the
woods and was entering the village, she found the terror-stricken people
packing their household treasures, for the Nimrod panic had struck the
town, and the same scenes of fright were being enacted that had taken
place at Bedford and Fairhaven. Seeing this, Mrs. Denham was soon
galloping homeward, making as good time as her horse was capable
of doing. When half way home she was suddenly brought to a halt by
the sound of martial music and the tread of advancing soldiery. Pa-
tiently she waited, and soon there came down the road to the swinging
music of fife and drum the Rochester militia company, Capt. Micah H.
Ruggles commanding, then on their way to the defence of the seacoast.
Urgent as seemed their country's call, the courtesies due to the fair sex
were not overlooked, for at the gallant captain's command the soldiers
halted, opened ranks, presented arms, and, at Captain Ruggles's request,
Corporal Denham left the ranks and escorted his wife and baby through
the lines, amid the plaudits of his fellow soldiers. As the company
continued their march toward the sea, Mrs. Denham and her baby pro-
ceeded on their homeward journey. It is proper to mention the fact
that that baby was our well-known and honored citizen, Tilson B. Den-
ham.

The weeks that followed the visit oi \.\\e. Nimrod' s barges to our har-
bor, and their subsequent attack on Wareham, resulted in awakening
the inhabitants to a keen appreciation of the serious character of the
situation. The Nimrod still hovered in the bay and was liable at any
moment to make an assault on the town. Charles Eldredge said
that, with other boys, he often climbed to the belfry of the church, now
Phoenix Hall, and watched with eager interest the movements of this

THE HAUNTING ■'■NIMROD:

191

brig in the bay. Troops from the interior were constantly arriving. On
Monday, June 21, fifty muskets were received from Boston for the use
of the Fairhaven militia, and quantities of ammunition were promised
in a few days. Let the reader keep in mind that the sole means of pro-
tection in these hours of peril was furnished by the State of Massachu-
setts, the only visible force of the United States government being the
two gunboats. These, after an absence of several weeks, returned to the
harbor after the alarm of June 13 had passed. Tlieir arrival was sarcas-
tically announced in the words, " No fear of an attack now," and they
were spoken of as a species of defence that would make John Bull's
dogs laugh.

A number of citizens who were exempt by law from military duty, or-
ganized themselves into an independent company, under the command
of Capt. Robert Taber and Lieutenant Haskell. June 20 two young
men were arrested and examined on a charge of treason, for assisting
the enemy in their attempt to enter the harbor and in their attack on
Wareham. The evidence was conclusive that both these men were on
the enemy's barges, and strong evidence was presented that they had
received money for their services. In their defence they stated that they
were compelled to take the part they did. They were committed for
trial at the Circuit Court in Boston.

July 15, 1 8 14, we find the citizens still active in their preparations for
defence. The volunteer company, organized under Captain Taber, had
passed to the command of Capt. John Avery Parker (the first president
of the Merchants' National Bank). As this company was to meet that
evening for military exercise, the editor of the Merairy urged "that the
numbers of this association be increased to 100 men, and then it would
be an efficient force, in conjunction with the militia and artillery, for the
defence of the town and shipping. In the hour of peril, when we are
deserted by our own pusillanimous national administration, let every
true American deem it his indispensable duty to add his exertions in
conjunction with our excellent and magnanimous Governor [Strong] to
defend the soil and independence of Massachusetts."

The Nimrod continued to be a constant menace during the summer
of 1 8 14. A short respite from her mischievous work occurred when she
left the coast August 5, only to return again after a few weeks' absence.

192 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Traces of her work still exist in many of the old residences. Shot are
frequently taken from the roofs of shingled houses in Falmouth. Charles
H. Nye says that forty years ago there was a pile of these shot about
the base of the sign post of the Lewis tavern in Falmouth. l\Irs. A. C.
Jennings, daughter of Capt. John Crocker, whose house received such
marked attention from the Nimrod's guns, says her father fished up
from the mill-pond back of the house one of the shot that had passed
through the building. Having fitted the shot with a chain he hung it
upon the front gate as a weight to keep it closed, and also as a memento
of the bombardment. '

The Nimrod was a great annoyance to the fishermen along the coast,
who were frequently captured and set free after their catch of fresh fish
had been transferred to the larder of the brig. Records show instances
where hundreds of pounds were taken ; and so it happened that every-
body stood in constant fear of losing his catch. Early one morning a
company of Newport boys went down the bay on a fishing excursion,
and though a thick fog prevailed, they reached the fishing ground and
soon secured a good haul. Their sport was suddenly terminated by the
ominous rattle of the morning reveille and the tramp of hurrying feet
on board the Nimrod, which lay close to their boat, but invisible to the
boys because of the fog. They lost no time in raising anchor, and in
starting for home.

Early on the morning of July 24 a barge from the Nimrod landed at
Holmes Hole. The crew proceeded to the house of Capt. William
Daggett, took him from bed and carried him off, probably to perform
some compulsory service as a pilot. The very boat they came in they
had only a few days before captured from Mr. Are}', of that village.
But the Nimrod was not always successful in her raids. One day she
went into Holmes Hole, minus a spar. A boat's crew was sent ashore
who took possession of a flag- staff from which floated the stars and
stripes. They cut it down and made it ready for transportation to the
brig the ne.xt day. During the night two plucky Vineyard girls bored
a hole in the center of the staff, plugged it with powder, and blew it up.
When the British came after the spar the next morning they found it in
better condition for kindling wood than for the purpose desired. One
of these patriotic girls, Mrs. Harding, died in Vineyard Haven in 1878
at the advanced age of ninety-four years.

A PERTURBED PEOPLE. 193

July 29 a man was arrested in New Bedford by the deputy marshal,
who professed to be a deserter from the British frigate Endymion. He
stated that he held the position of poulterer and butcher on the vessel
He was suspected of being a spy. Miss Charlotte Nelson told the
writer the story of his arrest, as she heard her mother relate it, for it
occurred at her father's hotel. " A squad of soldiers came down Union
street, filed into the dining-room, and seized him as he was sitting at
the table. They carried him to an upper room and stationed sentinels
at his door and on the street. After a brief detention, the Frenchman
(for such he claimed to be) was set free, only to be rearrested after he
had mounted the stage coach to take his departure. He was finally
allowed to go." Several years after he returned to New Bedford and
resided here for some time, teaching French for a livelihood. He often
expressed his gratitude to the Nelsons for their care in providing for his
comfort while a prisoner at the hotel.

The agitated condition of affairs remained unchanged as the season
advanced. Rumors of approaches of the enemy were set afloat that
seemed to have foundation, for the New England coast was closely be-
sieged with British war vessels, and they were passing and repassing
through Vineyard Sound. This gave good ground for the fears that
steadily oppressed the people. A significant item we found in the
record book of the Oxford Village Fire Engine Company dated Sep-
tember, 1814 :

"At a special meeting of the proprietors of O.xford Engine, hold at Nicholas T.nber'.s
house, it was voted that the engine be removed to Capt. John Howland's for ' .safety,'
and it was done without delay."

And so the machine was carried up North street into the back road,
passing Master George H. Taber, then six years old, as he stood in
front of the house and saw the engine on its way to neighbor How-
land's.

September 27 and 28 must have been eventful days for our little
town. Five hundred soldiers marched into the village from the towns
in the northern part of the county. They passed down the roads to the
music of fifes and drums and with ensigns waving, and took their as-
signed stations along the seacoast line. That there was need of a
strong coast guard is apparent, for on October 6, a fleet of six war ves-

194

HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

sels came down Vineyard Sound and anchored at Tarpaulin Cove.
There were three 74-gun frigates, the Superb, Pactolus and Arniidi ;
gun brigs Forth and Narcissus, and a store brig. With such a formid-
able fleet in the adjacent waters, we are not surprised at the perturbed
state of the community.

A sad accident occurred on Friday morning, October 7, 18 14, at
Fort Phoenix. A soldier in the barracks was fixing his gun, which
happened to be loaded with ball and buckshot. It went off accidentally,
the ball passing through two wooden partitions and striking John
Dunham, of Attleborough. He expired about four hours after the ac-
cident. The victim was twenty-eight years old and left a family con-
sisting of a wife and two children.

In Godwin's life of William Cullen Bryant, who in his early career as
a lawyer seriously contemplated settling in New Bedford, are mentioned
several events relating to the condition of affairs in our vicinity during
the fall months of 18 14. In August Mr. Bryant went to Plymouth and
received his certificate of recommendation for admission to the bar at
the August term, 1815, he in the mean time to continue his studies. In
a letter to his father, written October 15, from Plymouth, he makes refer-
ence to a portion of the same troops that marched into New Bedford
September 25 and 26. He says: " The militia, which were ordered to
Plymouth and New Bedford, upon permission obtained by General
Goodwin, after he had made a terrible representation to the Governor
(Strong) of the dangers which threatened the former of these places,

are now about to return Two hundred are, however, to

be left at New Bedford." Here is an extract that sheds a little light
upon the experiences of the people and soldiery, at this time: " Our
people here grumbled very considerably at being thus destitute of hands
to get in their corn and potatoes, but it was observed, however, that
those who remained at home were the most disconcerted. The soldiers
enjoyed themselves soundly and were attentively supplied with every
comfort and convenience which their situation could admit of" A
glance through the letters of this afterwards distinguished poet and
journalist reveals many surprising statements that evidently express the
state of public opinion at the close of the year 18 14. To his father he
writes, October 15, showing why he ought to enter the army of the

SHOOTING OF CHARLES GILBERT.

'95

State, be it remembered, not for the service of the United States : " If
I should enter the service of the State, I should procure the means of
present support, and perhaps, with prudence, might enable myself to
complete my studies without further assistance. I should then come
into the world with my excessive bashfulness and rusticity rubbed off
by a military life, which polishes and improves the manners more than
any other method in the world. It is not probable that the struggle in
which we are to be engaged will be a long one, the war with Britain
certainly will not. The people cannot exist under it, and if the govern-
ment will not make peace, Massachusetts must."

It is a matter of record that the legislatures of several Eastern States
not only condemned the war with England as " unpatriotic, impractica-
ble and unjust," but took measures of protection against the " violence
and tyranny of the United States government." Out of this widespread
feeling of discontent grew the celebrated Hartford convention, composed
of delegates from Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and New
Hampshire. It met December 15, 1814, and passed resolutions phrased
in severest terms, condemning the United States government for this
needless war. Whatever praise or condemnation be meted out to New
England for its bitter opposition to this conflict with Great Britain
must be shared by New Bedford, which was in close sympathy with its
neighbors. It is a fact that not a single object for which the war was
instituted was obtained. The victory achieved at the battle of New
Orleans, January 8, furnished 'the administration with a brilliant set-
ting to the closing scenes of the war.

On Friday night, August 12, 18 14, Charles Gilbert was shot dead by
a sentry on duty near the gun-house, which was located near the south-
east corner of South Sixth and Spring streets. He had been on duty
and was on his return from a visit to the stationed sentries in company
with a fellow soldier who was on horseback. As they approached the
gun-house the sentinel on duty at this point, Nathan Buck, of Easton,
hailed the latter and allowed him to pass. He then ordered Gilbert to
advance and give the countersign. It is evident from the limited ac-
counts of the affair that he was slow in obeying the command. This
hesitancy cost him his life, for the sentinel discharged his musket, the
ball entering Gilbert's breast. He fell and immediately expired. The

196 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

tragedv created a profound 'sensation in the town and the sentinel was
placed under arrest. A coroner's jury rendered a verdict of willful mur-
der against the prisoner, who was placed in the county jail to await his
trial. Nothing was done about it, however, the general conviction
being that the soldier had simply done his dut}', and he was finally dis-
charged.

Thomas Durfee said that he with his companj', Captain Nelson's,
was on duty at the time of this unfortunate affair, their barracks being
located on South Second street near Walnut. A few nights before he
was on duty near the barracks when the grand rounds were made. The
sergeant undertook to pass him without giving the countersign and also
tried to persuade him to let him have his musket. Instead of comply-
ing with this request, he leveled it at him and brought him to a halt.
While this parley was going on Mr. Gilbert came to the door of the
barracks and Ordered Durfee to let the sergeant pass, which of course
he did. He heard the sergeant say to Gilbert as he passed into the
quarters, "I meant to get that fellow's gun from him if I could." " I
would have shot him sure had he attempted it," said Mr. Durfee.
These attempts to disarm the sentinels and otherwise bother them were
no doubt but tests of their responsibilities. The results were some-
what unfortunate, as in the case of Gilbert, who, it seems, was in charge
of the grand rounds.

Mr. Durfee also related an incident of Drill-Sergeant Hathaway who
was on the grand rounds, when Captain Nelson's company was on duty.
He was halted by the sentry, and the hail "Who comes here ? " was
answered, "A friend." "Advance and give the countersign." But Mr.
Drill-Sergeant was for some reason unable to give it. The sentry cov-
ered him with his gun and kept him prisoner until the change of guard.
The weather was bitter cold and Sergeant Hathaway did not find the
situation one of great enjoyment. He pleaded to be let go, saying
"You know me perfectly well." " I know no one without the counter-
sign," was the reply of the faithful soldier.

Mrs. Gideon P. Sawyer remembered the sad occurrence at the gun-
house and saw the dead body of Charles Gilbert as it was carried into
his home on North street just below Purchase. Mr. Durfee remarked
that Sentry Buck was a disconsolate individual as he saw him in the gun-

A RELIC OF PRISON LIFE.

197

house on the morning after the tragedy. Mr. Gilbert was spoken of as
an industrious and worthy citizen, on whom a wife and family de-
pended for subsistence. The editor of the Mercury closed an account of
the affair in these words : " O war ! thy cup is a cup of bitterness.
Widows and orphans are multiplied, and millions mourn thy cruel dev-
astations."

CHAPTER XIII.

DARTMOOR PRISON.

An Interesting Memento — Impressment of American Seaman — Arrival in New
Bedford Harbor of Cartel Ship — A Fragmentary Account of the Arrival— Charles
Andrews's Journal — Partial List of Sufferers — Thrilling Personal Accounts — Joseph
Bates's Account — Captain McKenzie's Narrative — Militia Rosters of 1814 — Peace
— Enthusiastic Celebration.

□ MONG the valuable reHcs owned by Willard Nye, jr., is one that
/ \ has interest in connection with the Dartmoor Prison. Stand-
ing in his museum is a box case with glass front, containing a full-rigged
model of a 74-gun frigate. Masts, rigging, shrouds, running gear, flags,
are all in place, and correctly arranged. The decks are supplied with
everything that belongs to a well-furnished ship. Seventy-four guns
may be counted at the portholes and in other parts of the vessel. Boats
complete with oars, hooks, and coils of rope hang on the cranes that
vi'ill swing and allow them to be lowered into the painted sea on which
this beautiful craft gracefully floats. The hull shines like polished
ivory and looks staunch and strong. This model has an interesting
history, and it seems proper to make mention of it at this time. It was
made in Dartmoor Prison by Cape Cod sailors who were impressed
during the War of 18 12. But what gives this craft peculiar interest is
the fact that it is constructed of " beef bones " that were served out in
the rations. Sheets of bone cover the vessel's sides, and this material
enters into almost everything in its construction. It is a fine piece of

igS HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

mechanism, such as only New England Yankees could construct. When
the prisoners were released they brought home the model and presented
it to Col. Obed B. Nye, of Sandwich, grandfather of the present owner.

Allusion has before been made to the impressment of 14,000 Ameri-
cans into the British navy during the Napoleonic wars. This forced
service was grievous to render when directed against other nations ; but
when English guns were directed against their own beloved country,
thousands of patriotic Americans refused obedience, and so the prisons
and prison ships along the English coast were filled with these
brave fellows, many of whom were incarcerated till the end of the war.

It was Saturday, the 25th of September, 18 13, when a strange-ap-
pearing vessel came into Buzzard's Bay, sailed up the Acushnet river,
and dropped anchor in our harbor. She was a large craft of peculiar
model and revealed her nationality by the Russian flag floating at the
masthead. Her decks swarmed with men, and but for the emblem that
betokens a friendly visitor, she might have been taken for an evil pres-
ence ; and such a company of ill-conditioned, ill-dressed and rough-
appearing men might naturally have caused a panic among the peace-
loving people of our towns. The absence of arms in the hands of this
company, and the shouts and huzzas that floated over the water, indi-
cated that they were friends at least. Prisoners from Dartmoor ! Here
is the exact entry :

" Marine Diary, New Bedford Mercury :

" Arrived — September 25th, 18 13. Cartel Russian ship Hoffming,
Harms, 47 days from Plymouth, England, with 402 prisoners."

Says a writer, a fragment of whose manuscript letter is in the archives
of our Free Public Library : " I well remember the arrival of the big
cartel ship with the flag of the northern bear at the masthead. Al-
though but a youngster of half a score, that event, like most others
which during the war for ' free trade and sailors' rights,' occurred in our
then little community, made a strong impression upon my memory.
The ship was a large one, one of the largest I had ever seen, and com-
ing to our port with over 400 of our gallant sailors, who had been the
victims of English cruelty and neglect in Dartmoor Prison, she was an
object of special interest. The two-headed eagle of the Russian Czar
came to us freighed with a multitude of our countrymen who had lost

DARTMOOR PRISON.

'99

the protection of our own noble land, and had been suffering wrong and
outrage in that dreadful house of bondage, the prison at Dartmoor ; a
place of confinement which never had but one rival in enormity, and
that the Jersey prison ship of Revolutionary memory. The Sun-
day following the arrival of the ship (she arrived on Saturday) was a
bright September day, and the poor fellows with their feet once more
upon their native soil, with the buoyancy of spirits so characteristic of
the sailor," * * * Here this interesting account abruptly ends. As
there will be much to relate of this place, it is important that the reader
should have an idea of this noted English prison. The following de-
scription is taken from a rare book called " The Prisoner's Memoirs,
or Dartmoor Prison," compiled from a journal of Charles Andrews, a
prisoner from the commencement of the war until the release of all the
prisoners, published in 1815 :

He says : " The prison at Dartmoor (seventeen miles from Plym-
outh) is situated on the east side of one of the highest and most barren
mountains in England, and is surrounded on all sides as far as the eye
can see by the gloomy features of a black moor, uncultivated and unin-
habited except by one or two miserable cottages, the tenants of which
live by cutting turf on the moor and selling it at the prison. The
place is deprived of everything that is pleasant or agreeable, and is pro-
ductive of nothing but woe and misery. . . . On entering this
depot of living death we first passed through the gates and found our-
selves surrounded by two circular walls, the outer one of which is a
mile in circumference and sixteen feet high. The inner wall is distant
from the outer thirty feet, around which is a chain of bells suspended
by a wire, so that the least touch sets every bell in motion, and alarms
the garrison. On the top of the inner wall is placed a guard at the dis-
tance of every twenty feet, which frustrates every attempt to escape,
and instantly quells every disorderly motion of the prisoners.
Inside of the walls are erected large barracks capacious enough to contain
1,000 soldiers, and a hospital for the sick. This much for the court-
yard of this seminary of misery; we shall next give a description of the
gloomy prison itself. On entering we find seven prisons . . sit-

uated quite within the walls before mentioned. Prisons I, 2, and
3 are built of rough, unhewn stone, three stories high, 180 feet long

200 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

and forty broad, each of the prisons to contain 1,500 prisoners. There
is attached to the yard" of these prisons a house of correction, called a
cacliot. This is built of large stone, arched above, and floored with the
same. Into this cold, dark and damp cell, the unhappy prisoner is cast
if he offends the rules of the prison, and remains days and

often weeks, on two- thirds his usual allowance of food, without ham-
mock or bed, and nothing but a stone pavement for his chair or bed.
These three prisons are situated on the north side. Number 4 is
next to these, but separated from all the others by walls on each side.
Numbers 5, 6 and 7 are along the south side of the circular wall.
To each prison is attached a small yard with a constant stream of
water passing through it."

The writer speaks of the weather as constantly wet and foggy, on
account of the situation of the prison, which was on a mountain, 2,000
feet above the level of the sea. It was in the midst of clouds during a
storm, and hence these fogs and torrents of rain. In the winter it was
much colder than the country below.

Mr. Andrews says: "We entered the prison; but here the heart of
every American was appalled. Amazement struck the unhappy victim ;
for as he cast his hopeless eyes around the prison he saw the water con-
stantly dropping from the cold stone walls on every side, which kept
the floor (made of stone) constantly wet and cold as ice. All the prison
floors were either stone or cement, and each story contained one apart-
ment, and resembled long, vacant horse stables. There were in each
story six tiers of joists for the prisoners to fasten their hammocks to.
The hammocks ^ave a stick at each end to spread them out, and are
hung in the manner of cots, four or five deep, or one above the other.
On each side of the prison is left a vacancj' for a passage from one end
of it to the other. We were informed that the prisoners must be counted
out and messed, six together, every morning by the guards and turn-
keys."

These extracts are sufficient to give the reader an intelligent idea of
this prison, in which were thousands of American citizens ; among them
were many who belonged to our own and in neighboring towns.

The opportunity has long since passed for a complete record to be
made of the prisoners of Dartmoor and of other English prisons. These

Sn^ftyT.<i}aTrua\.V^

fy(Li^/^/^i^ t-'^'i^ ^

PARTIAL RECORD OF PRISONERS. 201

men have all passed away, and with them much that would be of uiter-
est to their descendants. Scores of sailors belonging to New Bedford
and to our neighboring towns were taken from merchant ships sailing
from our harbor, and were either forced into the English service or in-
carcerated in English prisons for refusing to fight against their own
flag. From the limited resources now available the following facts have
been gathered :

New Bedford men who were prisoners in Dartmoor : Daniel Mc-
Kenzie, Edmond Allen, Clement P. Covell, John Underwood, Captain
Sawdey, Jacob Taber, James Rider, HupiTJhre ^ Maxfield, Elijah Tobey,
William Dunham, David Shepherd, James Tilton, Richard Luscunib,
Martin Sutten, Enos Chandler.

Amasa Delano died at Dartmoor, November 18, 18 13.

John Montgomery died at Dartmoor, February 25, 1814.

Matthew Stetson died at Dartmoor, February 22, 181 5.

Martin Sutten died at Dartmoor, February 22, 18 15.

Captain Swain escaped from Dartmoor, October, 18 14.

Mr. Russell escaped from Dartmoor, December, 18 14.

The Fairhaven men were : Joseph Bates, James O'Neil, Lemuel C.
Wood, Charles Proctor.

Acushnet. — Samuel Parker.

Holmes Hole. — Peter Amos died at Dartmoor, February 18.

Westport. — Henry Alden.

Tiverton, R. I. — Samuel Cook.

Gayhead. �� John Jennings died at Dartmoor, February 22, 181 5 ;
Joseph Williams also died there.

Nantucket. — William Davis, Caleb Coffin, Shuba;! Folger.

New Bedford men who were confined in prison ships at Chatham,
England : John Brown, Asa Bumpus, John Fitz, John Barks, William
Denning, John Jackson.

Nantucket. — Benjamin Melvin, Ebenezer Skinner, David Pinkham,
Reuben Moslard.

Holmes Hole. — Henry Dison.

In prison at Cork, Ireland. — John James, of New Bedford.

Isaac Bly and Peter Amy suffered imprisonment during the War of
18 12 in prison ships.

2 o 2 HISTOR \ ' OF NE W BEDFORD.

The following Dartmouth men were confined in the Mill Prison, at
Plymouth, England, during the Revolutionary War : William Cuff, Henry
Wrightington, Samuel Knast, John Hathaway, James Rounds, Silas
Hathaway, Prince Hart, Humphrey Potter, Ebenezer Willis, Absolam
Nero, Thomas Brightman. They were captured in sloop Charfuing
Sally, January i6, 1777.

Daniel Ricketson and son, grandfather and father of our historian,
Daniel Ricketson, merchants in Bedford village in the early years of
the century, sent a ship to London laden with a cargo of oil. Thence
she went to Bremen and took on board a cargo of iron. While in the
North Sea she sprang aleak and went into Greenock, Scotland, for re-
pairs While these operations were in progress, war was declared be-
tween the United States and England. The vessel was seized by the
British government, and the crew sent to Dartmoor Prison. When the
ship lay in London docks, the captain (Sawdey by name) purchased, at
the request of the junior member of the firm, a gold watch with an old
fashioned double case, which cost at the time twenty or thirty pounds
sterling, regarded a great price in those days. This watch the captain
kept during his imprisonment and on his return brought it to our his-
torian's father, Joseph Ricketson, which was all that was ever received
from ship or cargo. The matter was twice brought before the English
admiralty court for adjustment, but without success. One of the crew
was Samuel Parker, of Acushnet, who died twenty years ago at an ad-
vanced age.

Among the vessels captured during the War of 18 12 was the ship
William Rotch, of this port. Among her crew were two New Bedford
men who were thrust into Dartmoor, James Tilton and Richard Lus-
cumb, both of whom will be remembered by many of our citizens.
Tliey lived to the advanced age of eighty- three and eighty- six years
respectively. Mr. Tilton brought home as mementoes of his prison
life a large pitcher and two bowls. These he probably purchased of the
peddlers who, as Mr. Andrews, in his book, says, " to the number of
twenty or thirty, were allowed to daily hold market in front of each
prison," and who supplied the prisoners with such provisions, clothing
and other articles as their limited means would admit of their pur-
■chasing. The pitcher, now owned by his son, Edward M. Tilton, is of

IMPRESSMENT OF JOSEPH BATES. 203

white ware and highly decorated witli patriotic emblems. It bears on
one side the picture of a full- rigged American whale ship that Mr. Til-
ton thinks is a representation of the ship William Rotch, from which
his father was taken. It is a valuable and interesting relic, and highly-
prized Jay the present owner.

A list has already been given of New Bedford ships captured during
the first three months of the war. Among these was the ship Catha-
rine, valued with cargo at $60,000. John James and John Underwood
belonged to her crew. They were both made prisoners ; the former
was put in a prison at Cork, Ireland, and the latter at Dartmoor.

Among the names in the list of Dartmoor prisoners is that of Joseph
Bates, of Fairhaven. In his autobiography, published in 1859, are
found many thrilling incidents that are connected with his experience
as an impressed seaman in the English navy, and as a prisoner at Dart-
moor. At the early age of fifteen he went to sea as cabin boy in the
ship Fanny, Capt. Elias Terry, which sailed from this port in June, 1807.
After an experience full of exciting adventure he found himself, with a
number of fellow sailors, in Liverpool, April, 1810. . He says: "A few
days after our arrival a press-gang (an officer and twelve men) entered
our boarding-house in the evening and asked us to what country we be-
longed. We produced our American protections, which proved us to
be citizens of the United States. Protections and arguments would not
satisfy them. They seized and dragged us to the ' rendezvous,' a place
of close confinement. In the morning we were examined before a
naval lieutenant, and ordered to join the British navy. To prevent our
escape four stout men seized us, and the lieutenant, with his sword
drawn, going before, we were conducted through the middle of one of
the principal streets of Liverpool like condemned criminals ordered to
the galleys. When we reached the riverside a boat well manned with
men was in readiness, and conveyed us on board the Princess, of the
royal navy. After a rigid scrutiny we were confined in the prison room
on the lower deck with about sixty others who claimed to be Amer-
icans, and impressed like ourselves. This eventful epoch occurred April
27, 1810."

An attempt to regain their liberty by breaking the bars of the port-
holes and thus to escape by swimming ashore was met with severe pun-

204 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

isliment, the Americans being taken one after another and whipped on
their naked backs in a most inhuman manner. In a few days he and
others, pronounced in good condition, were transferred to the stationary
or receiving ship, Saint Salvador Del Mondo, at Plymouth, where he
found about 1,500 other victims like himself. In three days Jie was
drafted, with 150 others, and sent on board His Majesty's 74-gun frig-
ate, Rodney, Commodore Bolton.

During the weary months following, earnest effort was made by Mr.
Bates's father to get his release from the English navy, but without suc-
cess. Then came the declaration of war. In the squadron of ships in
which he was a sailor there were more than 200 Americans. They re-
belled against their position. A committee of six, of which Mr. Bates
was one, walked to the quarterdeck and addressed the commanding
officer as follows : " We understand, sir, that war has commenced be-
tween Great Britain and the United States, and we do not wish to be
found fighting against our own country; therefore it is our wish to be-
come prisoners of war ! " Their patriotic request was rewarded by an
(?rder to go below, and they were then placed at the pumps for exercise.
Their scanty allowance was cut down one-third, and the men otherwise
ill-treated. They soon, however, were recognized prisoners of war and
relieved of the routine work of an English sailor.

Passing over chapters full of exciting scenes we find Mr. Bates at last
a prisoner at Dartmoor in the summer of 1814. His description of the
prison harmonizes with that of Mr. Andrews, which has been given.
At the time he entered Dartmoor there were 6,000 Americans confined
there. He says: " We were guarded by a barrack of 600 soldiers, were
counted out in the morning and driven in at sunset. It was quite a
sight when the sun shone to see those who desired to keep themselves
decent seated in groups about the yard cleaning their blankets and beds
from vermin." Sorrowful, indeed, are the tales Mr. Bates tells in his
littlebook of his sufferings during these weary months, and it is a fair
conclusion that his experience was typical of that of the great army of
men who were his fellow prisoners. When the glad news of peace
reached "them in February, 1815, Mr. Bates says: "Shouts of raptur-
ous jo\- rang through our gloomy dungeons such as most likely will
never be heard there again. What ! about to be liberated ; go to our

CAPTAIN McKENZIE. 205

native country and gather around the paternal fireside once more ! Yes,
this hope was in us, and it seemed sometimes as though we were almost
there." At this time the prisoners were engaged in the herculean task
of opening a subterranean passage to the outside of the prison walls,
and Mr. Bates makes mention of Capt. Lemuel C. Wood, of Fairhaven,
who lived in the prison, and with whom he had friendly intercourse.
Captain Wood informed him of the difficulties encountered in working
in this stifling hole after they had made considerable progress. The
men, returning from their task with a small bag of dirt, would be black
in the face and nearly exhausted for want of breath. Their great hope
was to get to the seacoast and, by seizing a vessel or boats, to reach the
coast of France. Their well-nigh successful plans were defeated by the
treachery of one of the prisoners, who was liberated as a reward for his
base betrayal.

Mr. Bates was a witness of the massacre that occurred in the prison
April 6, 1 8 1 5, when seven prisoners were killed and sixty wounded. Mr.
Bates was liberated April 27, 1815, after two and a half years' service in
the British navy and two and a half years as a prisoner of war. With
300 other liberated Americans, he embarked in the cartel ship Mary Ann,
Capt. Carr, for the United States. When a few days out they discovered
that the plan was to land them at James river, Virginia. As the greater
part of the prisoners were New England men, they revolted, took pos-
session of the ship, rounded Block Island and anchored off New London.
Here a company of Massachusetts prisoners chartered a fishing smack,
and twenty-two of them were carried around Cape Cod into Boston.
Here Mr. Bates met a friend and townsman of his father's, Capt.
Thomas Nye, who lent him twenty dollars with which to buy decent
clothing. "The next evening, June 14, 181 5," Mr. Bates says, " I had
the Indescribable pleasure of being at my parental home in Fairhaven,
surrounded by mother, brothers, sisters and friends, all overjoyed to see
me once more in the family circle, after six years and three months ab-
sence from them. '

Among the best known of New Bedford citizens who were prisoners
at Dartmoor was Capt Daniel McKenzie. He was a man of fine pres-
ence and genial disposition, and occupied a prominent position in the
local affairs of the town. We find in the Mercury a paragraph alluding

2o6 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

in complimentary manner to a public address he made, in which he told
the story of his prison life at Cape Town and Dartmoor during the war
of 1812. That was a half century ago. About twenty years later, his
son, Alexander McKenzie, D.D., of Cambridge, wrote the following
narrative from notes and papers of his father, and called it "An Old
Sailor's True Story." It is in reality a vivid portrayal of Capt. McKen-
zie's actual experiences. He was nineteen years old when taken pris-
oner and died in 1854, sixty years of age. He lies buried on Maple
avenue in Rural Cemetery. By special permission of Dr. McKenzie, the
narrative is given in this history.

Dr. McKenzie visited the Dartmoor Prison in 1887. He says:
" It is now greatly enlarged to a common prison. Building No. 5 in
which the Americans were, is now used as a tailors' and shoemakers' shop.
In a field near by is a monument in memory of the American prison-
ers who died between the years 1809 and 1814, and lie buried there."

" On the old gate is the inscription : ' Parcere subjectis.' A Wesleyan
chapel is on the spot where was the market-house where the prisoners
exchanged for meat the trinkets they made from bones. The whole
place is very high and very dreary. The prisoners must have had a
dismal time there. The ' true story ' which follows was written from
my father's account, and is substantially as he wrote it. I see that it is
substantiated in some points by other narratives."

CAPTAIN MC KENZIE'S NARRATIVE.

I will tell you something of my experience during our late war with
England. When the declaration of war was made I was boatsteerer on
board an American whaleship, cruising in the Pacific Ocean for the
spermaceti whale. In 18 13, on our homeward passage, we were inter-
cepted off the island of Trinidad in the South Atlantic by a British ship
of war, on her eastward voyage to China. The process of capture at sea
when belligerent parties meet, and only one is armed, is very simple. In
our case we had approached our enemy in "a dark and foggy night,
and when daylight appeared were very near him. A shot was thrown
across our bows, and the English colors hoisted. We hove to and set
the stars and stripes. An officer was sent on board, who inquired the

Mckenzie arrives at cape town. 207

name of our ship and to what nation we belonged. Our captain in-
formed him that our ship was owned in the United States and we were
Americans. The officer then informed us of the existence of war, and
that we were prisoners to His Majesty's ship of war, the Acorn ; he
ordered us and our baggage into his boat, and in half an hour we were
on board the Acorn. Our ship was manned by Englishmen, and we
were in the enemy's, on our way to the Cape of Good Hope, bewailing our
unfortunate condition, while John Bull rejoiced in his success. In this
ship we suffered exceedingly from a short allowance of provisions and
water. Many offers were made to us Americans to enlist in the Eng-
lish service, to all of which we replied with indignation. After a tedious
passage of forty days, we arrived with both ships at Cape Town, a Brit-
ish colonial settlement at Cape of Good Hope. The day after our ar-
rival we were put with our baggage into a launch, and to the exceeding
mortification of our captain, who was a very gentlemanly man, he was
ordered into the same boat, and we were towed to shore by another boat
about half manned. This I noticed afterward was a common specimen
of British courtesy toward Americans when in their power. On land-
ing we were drawn up in line, counted several times, and, after our
marks, description, and age had been taken, marched under a guard of
soldiers to prison, where, as misery likes company, we were happy to
find about two hundred of our countrymen. Our ship and cargo was
sold at auction, and the proceeds swelled the British treasury ; my share
I have not received back and rather think I never shall. During my
seven months' stay at the Cape prison, we were kindly and indulgently
treated ; we could obtain leave of absence from ^prison on parole, in or-
der to work in the town or country — our employers giving a small bond
for our appearance when the officers should call us in.

I will describe the prison and prison life as I found them. Our loca-
tion was a little back of the town, and at the base of the famous Table
Mountain. The prisons were built of stone, flat on the top, and twelve
feet high and encircled by a high wall. We were guarded by soldiers,
and sentinels were posted at the gate and in front of each prison. We
obtained water from a clear brook that passed a few yards from our
gate ; we had access to this brook through the day, guarded by a senti-
nel, whose duty it was to count us out and in. We used not unfre-

2o8 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

quently to confuse him by rushing out in a crowd for water ; this was
done when a party wished for a cruise to the town. As the sentinel
could not leave his post, the rogues would crawl along the brook pro-
tected by the bank until out of sight. On their return they would
mingle again with their companies, and, in another crowd, regain the
prison and escape detection. Sometimes they were caught by the senti-
nel when returning, or were missed by the turnkey when he called the
roll, our companions to whom was intrusted the duty of answering to
our names, failing to imitate our voices. In this event, the runaways
were punished with forty- eight hours of solitary confinement, sleeping
on stones, and living on bread and water. To escape from the prison was
never thought of; indeed, it seemed impossible, as the colony was sur-
rounded by savage African tribes. As I have said, we were kindly
treated, better even than we deserved ; for we were mischievous and
troublesome, and lost many indulgences through our own recklessness.
We were first allowed a daily walk, under guard, around the town, but
the liberty party one day, in a drunken frolic, having broken a resident's
fence, we lost this pleasant recreation. I often heard the English say,
not only at this prison, but on board prison ships, and subsequently at
Dartmoor, that Americans were the most difficult to govern of all the
nations they had held prisoners. Their zeal in hatching up plans to an-
noy their keepers ; their bold and indomitable spirit, leading them to
break down all order and discipline ; their astonishing tact in meeting
and overcoming all obstacles ; their coolness and readiness in emergen-
cies — all these qualities made them captives hard to hold. The secret
was and is, that Americans are free, and feel it everywhere and always.
To illustrate what I have said I must give you a few incidents. We
were allowed lights in the prison until 8 o'clock. At that hour the sentinel
would order them out, not unfrequently, however, if he happened to be
a clever fellow, and an old acquaintance, he would manage to forget the
order, and the lights would burn till 9 or 10. A frequent repetition of
this indulgence nearly ren'dered it a custom. Our evening employments
were various; some mended their clothes, some plaited the palm leaf
into hats, some played cards, checkers, and other games. One evening
a party of us were playing cards ; a Scotch guard was on, always more
precise in enforcing orders than the English. At 8 o'clock the sentinel

YANKEE MISCHIEF.

-°9

ordered us to put out the lights. We replied that the game was nearly
ended and then we would do so. The sentinel again harshly called out,
" Put out the lights." We laughed and replied we would when we
were ready ; the sentinel's frenzy put us in a mood for fun. He gave
the alarm and soon the sergeant and all the guard were at the door.
While they were forming outside we within took our hammock lashings,
tied them together, and fastened one end to a ring in the door which
opened outward. Having no place to which to fasten the other end we
all sat down, and, bracing against one another, held the door fast. The
sergeant ordered out the lights. After calling him sundry hard names
we peremptorily replied that we would not put them out, all the while
holding the door while the soldiers outside tried to get it open and
threatened to fire in if we did not put out the lights or open the door.
We called them cowards and fools, and told them they did not dare to
fire. As there was nothing by which they could open the door, they
took hold of the bottom and sprung it till we could see the ends of their
fingers. At length one of us said : " Let us slacken the rope a little
and pinch their fingers." We slackened it, and instantly the ends of
three or four dozen fingers came in sight around the edge of the door,
when the word was given, " Pull!" and pull we did, while they shrieked
in their agony and we mingled our wild laughter with their cries. Poor
fellows! they had to extricate themselves, or their companions for them,
by prying off the edge of the door with the points of their bayonets.
When they were liberated, they retired to the guard-honse, probably to
poultice their fingers. We fastened our door to a stake and retired
from the scene, leaving the lights to extinguish themselves. The ser-
geant was ashamed to report his defeat, and so the affair ended.

Soon after this the crew of a captured French frigate arrived, and
they, about 500 in number, were marched into prison — a filthy and dis-
gusting set of men. After a short consultation among ourselves we
concluded not to admit them, as there were other buildings in the yard
unoccupied. We called accordingly on the agent of the prison. Lieu-
tenant Mears, a crusty and superannuated naval officer, and remon-
strated against living with Frenchmen. He replied that no more prisons
would be opened until these already open were filled. We retired to
our apartments and resolved ourselves into a committee of the whole on

210 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.^

ways and means to keep out the Frenchmen. We concluded under the
circumstances we had better fight it out. We knew the guards would
not dare to fire on us, and that we could easily enough beat the French-
men. We organized for the combat, placing the strongest in front and
others in reserve. All this was done very quietly, while without was a
great noise — a confusion of tongues and no interpreters. We remained
sullen and still, " nursing our wrath to keep it warm." When thej' had
finished counting, examining and numbering the poor foreigners, they
ordered them to take their traps and move on. Poor Johnny Crapaud
was at a loss what to do ; but as the guards pressed the hardest he
marched to the door. Then came the tug of war. After a short battle
the French retreated and we were masters of the field. We thought
we had finished the business of the morning very comfortably. The
lieutenant called us scoundrels and rebels, told us if we were in any
other than English hands we would be shot, and then ordered other
prisons opened for his new captives.

I have one other story to tell on this point. Complaint was made by
the turnkey of the prison that the Americans, notwithstanding the most
vigilant watch, would escape from the prison and roam about the town
for days together, often committing depredations. The commander in-
ciiief, General Beard, a fractious old soldier, who, we were told, fought
against Washington in the Revolution, and who had been defeated, in-
quired why the prisoners were not missed when the roll was called.
The turnkey replied that every man, so fai- as he knew, answered to
his name morning and evening'; at least every name was answered to.
The general inquired if we were drawn up in columns at the roll-call.
■" No,'" replied the turnkey, " they will not form a line ; they say sail-
ors are not soldiers, and were never intended to be." We had an object
in this refusal ; for if drawn up in line we should be unable to answer
for one another in case of any absence. The general said he would
come in person, with a hundred men, the next morning and try his
skill at drilling us. We had timely information of his intention.

It may be well for me to describe the way in which our old French
friends were daily drilled. The first two men out would stand one on
each side of the door ; the next two b)- their sides, and so on till all
were arranged far enough apart to allow the turnkey to pass between

.J LUDICROUS DRILL. 211

the lines. This, by the way, was very amusing to us; for, since the
poor man had unfortunately lost one eye, he had to count up one side
and down the other; and when he came to the head of the column,
some Yankee would call out " About face, backward march," greatly to
the annoyance of the turnkey.

Now for the only military drill of my life. At the time appointed,
General Beard with his officers and men, arrived. The prison yard was
capacious and level, and he easily arranged his troops with sound of
bugles and trumpets. The Americans were then ordered in front of the
military, when the general addressed us in a short but commanding
speech. He told us we were prisoners of war — it so happened we had
found that out before ; that he knew much of our country and its his-
tory, and that we were fortunate in falling into so good hands; that it
was a happy circumstance we were of the same origin, and spoke the
same language with themselves ; that the object of his visit was for our
good, and if we would attend to a few simple regulations, it would be
for the advantage of all concerned. After this address he ordered a
half-dozen lieutenants, sergeants and corporals to form us in line. I
was the first man placed. I was directed to turn my feet out, keep my
arms down and rny head up. One after another some forty or fifty
were placed on the same line, when we began to nestle and get out of
position, and the general to scold, while the other officers were doing
their best to remedy matters. We laughed at them long and loudly.
The general rode up and down the line, complaining that it was not
straight, and we meant it never should be. We were ordered to " dress
front." We had arranged beforehand not to understand the order, and
all was confusion, when all at once our well-known bugle sounded. We
had a large crooked- necked cow's horn which we called a bugle, and
used to call all hands to dinner. One of our comrades, a queer fellow
named Smith, had concealed this under his jacket with the end near his
mouth, and now gave the dinner call. We turned and simultaneously
set up a roar of laughter. The general was amazed ; the horses neighed
and reared, and a more ludicrous scene I never beheld. Smith was
taken away, and the brave general rallied and tried twice more to ar-
range us ; but an evil spirit seemed to have taken possession of us, and
arranged we would not be. No words of .mine are sufficient to express

2 12 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

the wrath of tlie disappointed general, and I do not beheve that all the
generals in Great Britain could have formed us in a line after our horn
sounded. The general called us stubborn, stupid, rebellious scoundrels;
then turned to leave us. We bade him good-bye, reminding him that
this was not the first time he had been beaten by Americans. No other
attempt to drill us was made at this depot.

But after all, as I have before said, probably never were prisoners
more comfortably situated. The climate was mild and beautiful, the
soil rich and generous, and the market loaded the year round with the
products of the country, and the shores were visited by a great variety
of the finest fish in the world, and a sad mistake we made by asking to
be removed to England, thinking there to be more in the way of an ex-
change ; for before we reached England the exchange had stopped, and
we were compelled to drag out a miserable existence in a loathsome
prison till the war should terminate. But of this by and by.

In July, 1 8 14, the returned East India convoy arrived at the Cape
under the protection of the Denmark, ship-of-the-line, and the Stag,
frigate. These ships had lost many men by sickness, and we Americans
were asked to join them, as seamen for the passage to England. Twelve
of our number, including myself, accordingly joined the Marchioness of
Exeter, Captain Baines. This was the largest of these fine ships, all of
which were in reality ships of war, having batteries of heavy cannon
and a marine guard of musketry, with uniformed officers and regular
gradations of rank and promotion. Besides our. officers, we had 100
English sailors, fifty Lascars and Chinamen and 300 company's troops,
which were quartered at the guns in time of action. This was the most
remarkable voyage of my life, and I must describe it somewhat in detail.
We had never before sailed in an_ English merchant ship and could but
notice a great difference in the usage and fare here, and on board one of
our own ships. Our daily rations were a scanty supply of half- cleaned
Bengal rice, a pint and a half of water, and a good allowance of salt
meat, much of which we could not eat on account of our limited supply
of water. We had no bread, flour, peas, beans, tea or coffee, which
made a good variety in an American ship. Now an American sailor is
very jealous of the rights of his stomach ; and to avoid any future
trouble we made an agreement previous to enlisting that bread should

AN INCIPIENT MUTINY. 213

be daily given us, but for thirty days after we sailed only the rations just
mentioned were received.

We were badly treated and worked hard and we decided that some-
thing must be done. After consultation we decided we could get on
very well if bread was allowed us, and remembering our agreement,
we unanimously resolved to do no more duty without bread, but how to
get it was the question. I was appointed to lead, and the rest were to
follow to the quarter-deck to lay before the proud and lace-bound cap-
tain our complaint and our determination, and it was agreed that all
would consent to any arrangement I should make. To the quarter deck
we went ; the captain sent the second officer to inquire our business. I
replied that we wished to speak to the captain. Accordingly he ap-
proached and asked what we wanted. I answered we had come to re-
mind him of a contract he had made when we joined his ship, that bread
should be daily served to us, which contract had not been kept, though
we understood there was bread on board. The captain replied angrily
there was bread on board and that at a proper time we should have it.
I replied that he would, of course, manage the economy of his ship in his
own way ; but that, so far as we were concerned, we should discontinue
work till we had the bread. This he did not much seem to like, and he
asked me if Americans could not subsist on the same food as English-
men. I answered that I had no doubt Americans could do all that Eng-
lishmen could, but whether they would or not was another matter. The
result was, we were ordered under arrest and a guard placed over us.
Soon after, the cutter was manned and I, with a companion, one Frank
Rich, was ordered into it, and our captain followed. We pulled to the
flagship, where our captain had an interview with Commodore Baker,
after which I was ordered to the quarter-deck where stood the commo-
dore and Captain Raines, with a dozen ofificers in a semi-circle, a very
imposing spectacle — at least, considering the occasion. The commo-
dore asked me my name, which I gave him, reminding him at the same
time that I was born in the United States. "Are you sick?" he then
asked. "I am not well," I replied. " You are not sick, but discon-
tented," he continued. " I understand from Captain Baines that until
you twelve Americans came on board his ship he had a very orderly
and faithful crew, but since then vour influence has created a disaffec-

214 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

tion among the Englishmen, and your conduct to-day, in demanding a
change in your rations, was mutinous; but, in consequence of your be-
ing prisoners of war, he has referred your case to me. Now, what have
you to say ? " " Well, sir," I replied, " I think I have something to say,
not only for myself, but for my countrymen also, and I thank you for
the privilege of speaking. You say, sir, that I am not sick, but discon-
tented. I can give you a reason for it. I am discontented at being a
prisoner of war by the enemies and oppressors of my country, and at be-
ing treated in a manner so different from the usage on board American
ships; but, perhaps, with regard to my health I may be as good a judge
as any one. Sir, in the United States we are all corn fed, and I have
no doubt a change from English to American diet would improve the
health of all of us. I deny the charge of creating disturbance among
the English sailors — it would be hard work to contaminate you. I have
never seen dogs used as the men are in this ship." I reminded him of
our "bread contract," and that we only were parties to it, and of our
contention with Captain Baines, in consequence of which we were be-
fore him. To all this the commodore replied, " I have heard your com-
plaint; now do you return and bid your companions from me to return
to duty, and tell them if you will be satisfied with the same treatment
the English sailors have, I will think no more of your hasty conduct ;
but if you fail to do this, you shall all be brought to this ship, put in
irons, and confined in the fore lazarette, where j'ou shall be fed on rice
and water, with two hours' fresh air, one in the morning and one in the
evening." I bowed, thanked the commodore, and asked him if this was
a fair specimen of British magnanimity toward defenseless prisoners of
war. He made no reply, and beckoned me forward. As I left him I
said I had no idea my companions would comply with his directions
until our demand was granted, that Americans did not settle affairs in
this way. Frank, my companion, was told very much the same. When
we returned to our own ship I reported progress to my associates, who
were still under arrest, and we agreed to hold out, consoling ourselves
with the thought that at some day we might be able to pay them off in
their own coin. Soon after this the chief officer came to us with a mes-
sage from the captain requesting our return to duty, and promising his
influence on our arrival in England to obtaining our liberty. We an-

DESPERATE STRAITS.

:iS

svvered that Captain Baines had once deceived us, but would not again ;
that our motto was "Bread or the Denmark's lazarette." He left soon,
but returned, saying: "Well, my brave fellows, go to your duty, and to-
morrow you and all hands shall have bread served out to you," and so
it was.

Nothing more of interest occurred till we reached the Bay of Biscay.
Our passage was, however, so protracted that for several days before
reaching England we were reduced to half allowance of provisions. In
the Bay of Biscay, in October, we were visited by a most violent gale ;
for three days and nights it raged with unremitted fury. We lost sev-
eral spars and sails and a heavy sea broke our rudder. The ship labored
excessively ; and her seams opening, the water poured in, and six
pumps were in constant use in keeping her from sinking. The heavens
were as black as pitch, the storm howled through the rigging, the sea
piled up like mountains around us. Thus we were lying deluged,
wrecked, affrighted, for seventy- two hours, wrestling with the storm
and struggling with the waves. At this frightful juncture we were in-
formed by the captain that we had but two days' provision on board,
even at half allowance, and that if the storm should continue many
days, as very likely it might, we should be driven to an execution in the
ship. I never can forget the horrors of that hour. My first thought
was that if we were in such an exigency that the American would be
the first sacrificed. Amid my musings an old gray-headed Irish sailor
who stood near me said, " Well, if we come to that we'll eat the soldiers
first." But thanks be to Him who rules the whirlwind and the storm,
the wind fell before our provisions were exhausted, the violence of the
storm was stayed, and through a broken cloud appeared the sun to
lighten, and warm, and cheer the weary mariner. A strange sail had
been driven near us by the storm, which proved to be an English trans-
port laden with provisions, and our whole fleet, with the,^exception of a
brig that had foundered, replenished its stock. A cheering hope of
surviving the voyage beamed in every countenance ; a fair wind sprang
up, we repaired our damages, bent new sails, and in a few days reached
our desired haven.

On the third day after our arrival at Blackwell, a king's cutter came
for us, and took us to the provision ships at Chatham. Again and

2i6 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

again did we beg to be paid our wages before leaving our ship. Cap-
tain Baines acknowledged he owed us %lO each, and promised to send
us the money. So great was our surprise and indignation at this foul
treachery, that as we left we poured forth our imprecations upon the
captain, his country and his king. After all our sufterings we were
robbed at last. My wages I have never received, though I understand
a part was sent to Dartmoor Prison after we left. As night approached,
and we were sailing down the Thames, my fellow prisoners suggested
a plan to rise, take the cutter, throw the guard into the river, and run
to France. They fixed on me to command and navigate the vessel.
I replied to them that to capture the cutter by surprise would be very
easy ; but to sail in the night time clear of the rocks and shoals, with-
out chart or pilot, was quite another affair, and to run the gauntlet
through the channel fleet in the daytime would be quite impossible.
As our chance of success was quite small, I advised that we should not
attempt it. Most bitterly did we all afterwards regret our decision, when
we learned, by our own sad experience, that the time to escape from an
inland English prison is before you get in.

The next day we reached Chatham, where were lying several old line-
of battle ships, which had for many years been used as depots for pris-
oners of war, but now were entirely deserted, as the American prison-
ers had been removed to Dartmoor. When the inhabitants learned of
our arrival, they prayed the authorities not to allow our remaining, say-
ing that while the last American prisoners were there, they had been in
constant fear, sleeping with their swords by their sides, and their pis-
tols under their heads ; and that they had rather have i,ooo French-
men than lOO Americans. When the captain told us this we
felt highly flattered. It was pleasant to think we were still of some
consequence, and though prisoners, were able to annoy the enemies of
our country. We were ordered to Gilliganreach, and put on board the
frigate Quebec, a receiving ship. We were greatly amused and inter-
ested at finding Englishmen with feelings like our own, and also suffer-
ing ; for there were lOO freshly- pressed men, who never before had
been on ship-board. Thej' were farmers, tradesmen and mechanics,
and told us they had been kidnapped by press gangs and brought there.
They had been taken from their workshops and their farms, and with

INCIDENTS OF PRISON LIFE. 217

no preparation, hurried on board ship, whence they were destined for
ships of war. Strange questions they asked in relation to the treat-
ment and usage on board ships of war ; and their dresses of velvet and
corduroy, with knee- buckles and shoe- buckles seemed a new rig for
sailors.

After a short stay here we were removed to the frigate Cloyyeud at
Spithead. Here we were abused for another month. We were
crowded between two guns, and though the weather was intensely cold,
the ports near us were keptopen, while all others were shut; and every
morning as the decks were washed, water was maliciously thrown on
us. We almost thought they intended to freeze us. In this frigate we
were taken to Portsmouth and put on board the Puissant, an old French
frigate. Here we found some 500 of our countrymen, and among them
many old friends from the Cape Prison; and many hours we passed in
the narration of what we had seen and suffered since we parted. We
remained here some six weeks and were kindly treated, with a plenty
of room and of food. Our wash day, or rather washing night, was a
sportive time for us. Before night we started some 400 or 500 gallons
of water in the cook's coppers. At 4 o'clock in the morning we were
turned out to wash our clothes, and the scramble for a tub, a piece of
candle or soap, gave us much fun. This ship had been at her present
moorings for nineteen years, and several whole families had long been on
board. One woman showed me her daughter, a girl of thirteen, who
had never been out of the ship. She also told me that she was on board
the ship during the great mutiny in the navy, headed by Parker. Ports-
mouth was a great naval depot, and for several days, during the trial
of the mutineers, the court was held in this ship. I remember one part
of her narrative she always gave with great feeling. She said the trials
were very short, and many were hung on the smallest evidence of guilt.
One day there came on board for trial a crew against whom the only evi-
dence was the boatswain's wife, and as fast as she pointed out those impli-
cated they were executed. In the crowd and hurry she accused a man who
had at hand evidence which proved he had never been on board tlie
ship in question. The woman was charged with perjury, the noose
slipped over her head, as she stood on the deck, and she was run ^p to
the yardarm, and then the court adjourned. Such at least was the
story. 28

2i8 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

One da\' there came on board our ship a party of American mihtia-
men, Vermonters, taken in Canada, and a motley set of fellows they
were, with their high, pointed, woolen caps and their pepper-and-salt
clothes. The English made sport of them, and we ourselves were really
ashamed of their appearance. Almost daily new recruits joined us,
some of recent capture, others brought from other depots. We remained
peaceably until the arrival of 150 Americans taken on the lakes. They
were said to be sailors, but we could not tell why, as they were very
much different from old salts. These fellows were anxious to get on
shore or to some inland prison. We remonstrated against being moved,
having passed through changes enough to make us contented with our
present situation. Several unsuccessful attempts were made to escape
by swimming in the night. This led to the removal of some 300 to
Plymouth, the nearest seaport to Dartmoor.

On our way to Plymouth an incident occurred which I cannot pass over
in silence. It happened one night that a party of Americans, who had
been drinking, got into a quarrel ; the sentinel interfered, who was
knocked down, and the alarm flew that the Americans were going to
take the ship. The guard of the ship was called and marched against
us to the berth deck, where we had a pitched battle, though at great
odds, as we had no arms but those nature had given us, or which chance
had thrown in our way. The result was that one American was killed,
several badly wounded, who were sent to the hospital, and some five or
six pushed into the hold and confined. These prisoners we could com-
municate with, and they requested me to procure their release (one of
them, by the way, was Frank Rich, my colleague in enforcing the corn
law, or bread rather). The officer declined, saying he should transcend
his powers in releasing those the captain had confined, and they must
wait till he returned. They swore if they were not released to blow up
the ship. Soon after, when all was quiet, one of them, greatly excited,
came to the hatchway, calling out that the fellows were in the magazine.
Great was the alarm ; down went the captain of the marines, and fol-
lowed aft the passage the prisoners had made through several plank
bulkheads to the magazine. There sat a drunken fellow, with one hand
taking the head from a keg of powder, and holding in the other a lighted
candle ; the powder was already in sight and in a moment more the flame

IXTRODUCTIOX TO DARTMOOR. 219

would have reached it. The man- was dragged on deck, where the first
thing he said was, if he had been left alone he would have given us a
merry Christmas, for it was Christmas morning. We were told these
men were doomed to solitary confinement during the war.

On landing at Plymouth, we were marched a distance of twenty miles,
through a deep, melting snow, without food. At nine in the evening
the heavy gates were opened, and tired and hungry and disconsolate we
were in Dartmoor Prison. We were kept in an open prison through
the night ; and the next morning after undergoing an examination,
were permitted to take up our abode at either of the buildings within
the prison walls. I found several relatives among the old prisoners, and
joined their mess in prison number five. I was informed there were five
thousand prisoners here, many of the most daring and reckless charac-
ter ; a dangerous set of men to live with. There were in our prison
twelve hundred ; we were arranged in messes of six, and each mess
numbered. Our rations were on five days of the week beef soup ; one,
salt fish and potatoes ; and one, smoked herring and bread. All these
were good in quality, but poor in quantity. The wholesale manner of
making the soup is worth describing ; it was all made at one time and in
one boiler. First were put in about four hundred gallons of water, then
eight or ten quarters of beef, chopped, which was thrown in with large
pitchforks ; then a wagon load of turnips ; then barley, and a few shovel-
fuls of salt. At noon they blew the horn for dinner, and one from each
mess went for the allowance of ail. Our employments were various.
I attended three schools, one for navigation, one dancing, and one box-
ing. There were Frenchmen, Germans, and Italians who gave lessons
in music. We had a prison crier, who proclaimed any news that ar-
rived, anything that was lost or stolen, or, for a penny, he would show
up to ridicule any person — then go to the abused and receive another
penny for disclosing the name of his first employer. We suffered so
much for want of food that every means was resorted to for money to buy
bread of the country people who came to our gate to trade. I have seen
men work for hours scouring and coloring an old button to make it
pass for sixpence, and at first with good success.

On my arrival the prisoners were digging a passage under the wall,
and had made a considerable advance when the news of peace raised

220 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

hopes of an easier escape. Our keeper, Captain Shortland, a past cap-
tain of the navy, was unequivocally a bad man. I never knew or heard
of any redeeming trait in his character. He examined all the letters we
wrote, and would erase whatever he pleased, and so mutilated those we
received we could scarcely read what was left. We had a code of laws
in prison for our own government and a president, with a committee of
six, to enforce them, as there was no protection of individual rights to
be found outside.

In March, 1815,^ was negotiated the treaty of peace. Great was the
joy when the tidings reached the prison ; but still we lingered on in
suspense till the intelligence was communicated to us, in hand-bills, that
the war was terminated. We learned this in the evening, and never
have I witnessed such a universal jubilee ; one simultaneous expression
of jo)' went up from all hearts in the loud exclamation, " Thank God ! "
Cheers upon cheers resounded for " Liberty, Free Trade, and Sailors'
Rights." Cheers, wild laughter, silence, and tears marked the various
emotions. One man, who had long bewailed a captivity which sepa-
rated him from a family he had been forced to leave destitute, fell dead
upon the floor. Through the livelong night these expressions contin-
ued. The morning dawned, and we prepared to honor the day as best
we could. We had no cannon ; but we had powder, with which we
made ropeyarn guns, by binding the powder in a large ball of the yarn ;
and when the word was given, on each prison were hoisted the stars and
stripes, and the pealing of the guns, mingled with our loud cheers, rent
the air. We remembered our absent friends, the perils we had encoun-
tered, the abuse we had suffered ; to be delivered from these and per-
mitted again to meet those, oh, it was a fit cause for joy ! Even Short-
land affected pleasure, and was seen to smile a devil's smile. We were
now hourh' expecting to be released, but were doomed, through the
heartless delay of the authorities, to six weeks more of captivity and
trouble. We had, in this time, another bread revolt, for Shortland at-
tempted to feed us on bread he had kept for years, and which was alive
witii vermin ; we said we would have fresh bread or the walls should
come down. Five hundred men were not to be trifled with, and the
bread was forthcoming. But I must tell you a bread speculation I had
on my own responsibility. I have already alluded to our financial em-

A BARBAROUS ATTACK. 221

barrassments (our government only allowing us six shillings and eight
pence per month) ; and, on one occasion, I was driven into bankruptcy,
and it happened in this way : At various places in the prison were small
gaming tables, on which, beside money, were cards and bread. Now,
I had an English shilling with which I had for several days bought my
bread, and never did I esteem a piece of money more ; it was with me
day and night, lest some one should steal it. But one morning I was
unlucky, and, after three trials, had lost my shilling, four pence at a
time. But bread I must have, so I seized a loaf and the keeper seized
me. We had a short encounter ; I dropped the loaf; he fell upon it,
then surrendered at discretion ; picked himself up, while I picked up
not exactly the loaf but a pancake, which I bore away in triumph.
These little incidents slightly relieved the dull monotony of a life now
rendered more miserable by the suspense we were in regarding our de-
liverance.

But I must come to the saddest scene of all, one which will forever
stamp the name of its chief actor, Thomas George Shortland, with cow-
ardice, barbarity, infamy, and disgrace; never can his name be men-
tioned by a single American prisoner but with detestation and contempt.
Before the time of which I speak, he ordered his soldiers to fire into
our prisons because a light was seen. It was because his inhuman plans
were thwarted that we were not murdered in our hammocks. On the
6th of April, 18 15, as a small party were playing ball in the yard, some
one, striking the ball with too much force, sent it over the wall in front
of the prison. The sentinel there was requested to throw it back, but
refused. Upon this the party threatened to break out and get it them-
selves, and immediately began to put their threat into execution. A
hole was made in the wall sufficiently large to admit of a man's passing
through, but no one attempted it. The alarm bells were now rung and
the military called to arms. The prisoners, surprised at hearing the
alarm, ran into the passage fronting the market, where appeared Short-
land at the head of some 500 men of the military department. He had
been heard to say after the hole had been picked, and before the bells
rung, " I will fix the rascals directly," and the soldiers on the walls,
about the same time, informed the prisoners they would be charged
upon directly ; and now, while drunk, the brave captain ordered the

222 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD,

front ranks to fire, and, when they hesitated, he seized a musket, fired
the first shot, and the bloody drama commenced.

The rear ranks fired with considerable execution and chased the
prisoners to the yard. The brutal scenes of this day I shrink from nar-
rating ; nine men were killed and thirty-eight wounded. A man
named John Washington, having been wounded, was overtaken by the
soldiers and begged for his life, but the ruffians standing before him
shot him dead. A boy of fourteen was run through by an officer, and
many similar scenes were witnessed — all this while scarcely any one
knew the cause of the attack. Captain Shortland attempted to justify
his conduct by saying the prisoners were trying to break out. So far
from any such intention, they were in momentary expectation of being
sent home, and had the gates been thrown open they would not have
gone out. The secret was Shortland hated the prisoners, and took this
mode to get his revenge. One instance more should not be passed
over. In the midst of the slaughter and confusion an English lamp-
lighter, who had come in a few moments previous, ran into prison No.
3 to escape his own countrymen. He was recognized by the Ameri-
cans and a rope fixed for hanging him, nor at such a time was this
strange ; but some one representing the cowardice of such an act and
the disgrace it would inflict on the American name, the poor wretch
was released. "No," said they, " we scorn to copy after your coun-
trymen and murder you at this advantage. Go, and we will seek a
nobler revenge."

Soon after the massacre, cartels arrived at Plymouth ; these were
English ships, destined under charter for Norfolk for tobacco. From
300 to 400 were now put on board and I was among them. I had been
a prisoner for twenty-three months, and weary months they had been,
and I now heartily rejoiced at the prospect of release. On board this
ship, as usual, you will say, we had another rebellion in the matter of
provisions, with as usual a satisfactory result. The stores had been
prepared by the American agent, Mr. Beasley. Only one meal was
cooked for us each day ; the others we must get for ourselves, and great
excitement always attended the operation, as so many wished to be
served at the same time. We had one law for all cases, one almost as
old as man himself, and that was, " might makes right."

A PARDONABLE MUTINY. 223

I have but one more incident of our voyage to give you, and that is
its termination. It so happened that nearly all of the passengers — had
not our captivity ceased ? — belonged in New England, and as we ap-
proached the land, it seemed very hard and unreasonable that we should
be landed in a southern State in our destitute circumstances. So we
held a meeting and sent a letter to the captain on the subject. He re-
plied in writing that he was chartered for Norfolk and there he was
going ; this ended negotiations. But to land at New York we were
determined ; peaceably if we could, but forcibly if we must. We there-
fore resolved to take the ship out of the ofificers' hands and selected a
captain, O'Conner of Philadelphia, to take command. He was to pre-
tend ignorance of the whole plot, and, when publicly called upon, to re-
fuse, on the ground that he was a southern man, when we were to force
him to the post on peril of his life. This would clear him if any trouble
should arise afterward. In a body we marched aft and again requested
the captain to change the destination of the ship ; again he refused ;
upon which we informed him the ship was ours, and bound to New
York, and he might consider himself prisoner or passenger. He was
wise enough to see that resistance was useless, and said he should con-
sider himself a passenger. We then called aloud for O'Connor, who
was below. He came slowly up, greatly surprised at the appearance
of affairs. We informed him of what had been done, and that we
wished him now to assume command. He said he should do no such
thing, as he would rather go south than north. We told him he was
the best navigator we had ; and unless he complied with our wishes we
should throw him overboard. He paused a moment and then replied,
" Overboard let it be then ; I will never lead a band of mutineers." He
was seized, making what resistance he could, and begging for mercy,
but was tumbled over the side of the ship, where he was held a moment,
and the alternative again laid before him. He cried out, " Take me in
and I will command," and he came, walked to the quarter-deck, and in
a manly voice ordered the reefs out of the top sails, the studding-sails
and royals set, and the course changed, John Bull meanwhile looking
on in astonishment. We soon made Long Island, and as the wind was
unfavorable for our going in by Sandy Hook, we ran for Montauk, with
the view of going to New York through the sound ; but, when ofif New

2 24 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

London, the wind headed us, and we concluded to stop where we were.
We ran the ship on the shore, landed in the boats, taking the ensign
with us, and bade our English friends good-bye, suggesting at the same
time that they could get off at high tide. We were once more in our
native land — penniless, but free !

Among the cases of military discipline that occurred in Bedford vil-
lage during the eventful summer of 1814 was that of a soldier belonging
to the Raynham company, who was tried by a court-martial and con-
victed of desertion. He was sentenced to close confinement and de-
prived of his whisky rations during his term of enlistment. In October
Benjamin Seaver, who was in command of a guardboat in Clark's Cove,
was subjected to a court-martial for abusing his men, and for showing
disrespect to his superior officer by making wry faces at the clerk at
roll-call. He defended himself from the latter serious charge by saying
that he was chewing tobacco at the time his name was called. It is
probable that his defence was well taken, for no record was made of his
conviction or sentence.'

The following are full rosters of militia companies belonging in Fair-
haven, Dartmouth, and Westport, which rendered service in the defence
of our seacoast during the summer of 18 14.

Fairhaven Company of Infantrt.

Captain, William Nye : lieutenant, Jeduthan Taber ; ensign, Phineas White ; lifer,
Silas Stetson ; drummer, Charles Keen ; sergeants, R. P. Pratt, Thomas Adams, Joseph
Keen, Ezra White, Alden D. Stoddard, Isaac S. Church, William Taber, Cornelius Drew ;
corporals, Stephen ilerrihew, Ebenezer Keen, Jonathan Spooner, William White, Mi-
chael Bennett, Richard Delano, Joshua Morse, Lemuel Dillingham, Samuel Jenne, Robert
Cook ; privates, Pardon Taber, Luther Pratt, Millburn Omey, W. M. Gammons, Samuel
Pierce, Luther Parker, Thomas Omans, Edmund Merrihew, Nathan Parker, A-lanson
Woodcock, Phineas Jenne, Jno. Parker, Reuben Giftbrd, Ansel White, Ezekiel Clark,

James Shin, Abm. Ashley,* Thomas Spooner, Loum Snow, James Taber, Pratt,

M. Bourne, Elias Terry, James Randall, Thomas Wood, John , Nathaniel Hath-
away, Lemuel Fish, William Staples, Seth Sampson, Timo. Tripp, Alden Allen, Caleb
Proctor, Daniel Hammond, Seth Alden. Jonathan Wilcox, Isaac Cushman, Pardon Nye,
Silas Perry, Josh. Bennett, Alfred Vincent, B. Bryant, Edward B. West, Gilbert Tripp,
Richard Wood, Noah Kerapton, Jacob Kenney, Ebenezer Merrick, Mallboro' Bradford,
Jeduthan Jenne, Ebenezer Tinkham, Caleb Hammond, Humphrey Whitefield, Thomas
Rowland, William Wood, Joseph Jenney, Micah Hathaway, Francis M. Neele, Benja-
min Spooner, Edward Jenney, Elihew Hammond, Isaac Vincent, Shubel Gifford, Levi

PEACE. 225

Wilbur, William Tripp, Joshua Doane, Zacheus M. Allen, William Ashley, Jno. Weadon.
Sanford Terry.

Dartmouth Company of Infantry.
Captain, Bradford Howland ; lieutenant, Joseph Seagraves ; sergeant, Joshua Sherman ;
musicians, Russell Booth, Samuel Hull ; privates, Samuel Barker, William Hull, Alden
Macomber, John Allen, Freeman Lawrence, John Gidley, John White, Eason Howland,
Walter Howland, Parden Howland, Gideon Devall, Joseph Tripp, Robert C. Hall, Lilly
Haflbrd, jr., Thomas Weaver, William B. Marvin, Stephen Butts, Edward Sisson, Jere-
miah Brightman, Abner Cornell, Abner Wilcox, Stephen Head, James Tripp, Major
Allen, Abra. Butts, Perry Brownell, Henry Wilcox, Samuel Gidley, jr., Pardon Pierce,
Charles Shearman, Henry Brightman, Robert Lawrence, Giles Slocum 2d, Joshua How-
'and, jr., Henry Wilcox, Frederick Slocum, David Devall, jr., David Howland, jr., Noah
Kirby, Weston Bud, David Wing, jr., Benijah Tripp, Reuben Mosher, Charle.s Allen.
Elisha Gifford, Benjamin Gidley, jr., Stephen Tallman, William Shearman.

Wbstport Company.
Captain, Jonathan Davis; lieutenant, George Wood ; ensign, William Wing ; privates.
Job Gifford, John Snell. Phinehas Perry, Isaac Gifford, Philip Petty, Pe'eg Wardle;
George VVardle, Perry Wardle, Thomas Borden, Warren Dwelly, Lothrop Bessey, How-
ard Tripp, John Wardle, Job Tripp 2d, Dauiel Sisson, George W. Brown, Mason Butf-
ington, Elisha Tripp, George Sisson, Benjamin Sisson, Restcomb Tripp, Solomon Coiuell,
Mons Petty, Philip Peckham, Wesson Tripp 2d, George Potter, James H. Handy,
Philip Tripp, Stephen Tripp, Zebedee Danes, Asa Petty, George Wliite, Thomas T. Cor-
nell, Pardon Petty, William Evens, Zacheus Gifford, Alfred White, Levi Chace, Eph'm
Macomber, Jacob Allen, David Deval, Warren Gifford, William Case, Stephen Kirby,
William Tripp, Peter Devoll, William Smith, Stephen Tripp 3d, Benjamin Tripp, James
Cornell, William Kirby, George Gifford, Daniel Gifford, Garshum Wordle, Carcon
Crocker, Reuben Crapo, Ebenezer Hayden, Durfy Tripp, George Brownell, Pardon
Gifford, Reuben Wait, Nathaniel Tripp, Luther White, Stephen Tripp, Restcora Bordon,
Elisha Francis, Nathan Petty, Stephen Petty, Benjamin Petty, Thad's Reynold.^, Ben-
jamin Devall, Elias Petty, Henry Snell, Philip Potter, Joshua Potter, William How-
land, Allen Devall, Samuel Grey, Joseph Strange, James Reed, Nathan Lincoln, Simeon
Burt, Adam Gifford, Chris'r Cornell, Thomas Petty, Thomas Sanford, Peleg Dennis,
Daniel Brownell, James Snell, Peleg Gifford.

The struggle between the United States and England at last came to
an end and the treaty of peace was signed at Ghent on the 24th of De-
cember, 18 14. . This document was greeted with criticism and ridicule,
for by its provision absolutely nothing had been gained by the two and
a half years' war, that had cost 30,000 lives and a $100,000,000. Even
the protest of the United States against the impressment of seamen was
waived in the final settlement of the treaty, and but little remained for

2 26 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

the glory of the country but the memory of the victorious naval con-
tests and the closing drama of the war, the battle at New Orleans. But
peace came, alike welcome to Republican and Federalist, and the nation
rejoiced in the glad tidings when they reached our shores. These were
not the days of the telegraph, the swift trans- Atlantic steamer and the
lightning express train, and so many weeks went by before the news
reached our country. It was greeted with the wildest demonstration of
joy all over the land.

It was II o'clock on Monday night, February 21, 181 5, when Alex-
ander Townsend, of Boston, rode into Bedford village and communi-
cated the wc'lcome tidings. In a few moments the clanging of bells was
heard from the church towers, and the people rushed from their houses
in terror, expecting to see a conflagration in progress. The news
spread like wildfire, and the whole town was alive with demonstrations
of joy. " The rapture was as instantaneous as the alarm, and the reflex
of feeling almost overpowering. Sleep was no longer desirable and the
weariness of nature no longer felt."

Mrs. Lydia T. Barnard says that she has vivid recollections of that
night ; and though but seven years old at the time, she remembers that
the whole household was awakened, and that her father, Francis Taber,
took his fire buckets from their place in the front halt and rushed out to
do his duty as a good fireman. Proceeding up Water street, he met
Allerton Delano, of whom he inquired, " Where is the fire, Aller-
ton ?" and received the answer "There is no fire. Friend Taber, it's
peace ! " Returning quickly to his home (which was in the Benjamin
Taber house, now standing on the north side of Union street, next east
of the corner of Water), he proceeded to the back stoop and knocked
on the window of the adjoining tenement, occupied by his brother Bar-
nabas. "Yes, Francis, I'm getting up to the fire," was the response from
within. " It isn't fire, it's peace," he shouted in thunder tones. " Tues-
da}' was ironing- day," says Mrs. Barnard, "but the work was done be-
fore sunrise, and all employment in our household was then suspended."

George H. Taber remembers the night when peace was declared.
The ringing of the bells and the booming of the cannon naturally
created great terror. His father, John Taber, went out and soon re-
turned with joyful intelligence. There was great rejoicing in the house

ENTHUSIASTIC CELEBRATION. 227

and neighborhood, and his father, though a strict Quaker, joined
heartily in the festivities. Master George begged earnestly to be al-
lowed to dress and come down stairs, but the favor was denied him.

The villagers at Oxford made merry during the morning hours of
Washington's birthday with demonstrations of wild enthusiasm. It was
a happy circumstance that the day for celebrating the advent of peace
should be Washington's birthday ; and though the weather was stormy,
the people gave themselves up to the full enjoyment of the occasion.
All day long the bells rang out their peals of thanksgiving, intermingled
with the roar of cannon and the shouts of the people — an impressive
contrast to the months of gloom and sorrow that had preceded. Says
the Mercury :

" So sudden and total was the revolution of feeling that age forgets
its gravity and poverty its sorrows. A despondency awoke to joy and
resignation kindled into rapture. So powerfully were the animal spirits
agitated that a stranger to our sober lives and steady habits and unac-
quainted with the cause of mirth, would have supposed that we were
celebrating a feast of Bacchus, and could not easily have been persuaded
to believe that all this apparent intoxication was merely a spontaneous
revel of delightful feelings."

Bedford village was in a sad condition when the second war with
England was brought to a close. The wheels of industry had long since
ceased to move, and her fleet of vessels that had brought wealth and
prosperity had been driven from the ocean. Her shops and shipyards
were closed, the wharves were lined with dismasted vessels, the port
was shut against every enterprise by the close blockade of the enemy,
and the citizens wandered about the streets in enforced idleness.

This state of affairs that had existed for many weary months, brought
the natural results of suffering and despair. Provisions were high and
difficult to get, and but little money was in circulation. The Mercury
of January 15, 1813, gives the following prices current at Boston, Janu-
ary 4: Flour $12.50 per barrel, sugar 18 to 24 cents a potmd, butter
15 and 16 cents per pound, corn $1.20 per bushel, pork $17 per barrel,
mess beef $9.50 per barrel, molasses -jo cents per gallon, sperm oil
$1.40 per gallon, whale oil 70 cents per gallon, sole leather 22 cents per
pound, rye $1.50 per bushel, Virginia coal $18 per ton. Hyson tea

228 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

$1 45 per pound, Jamaica rum $1.45 per gallon, Holland gin $2.50 per
gallon.

We cannot wonder at the tumultuous joy of the people when the mid-
night bells rang out their tidings of peace. Everywhere throughout
the town, and on the other side of the river, were manifestations of wild
enthusiasm. The cannon at Fort Phcenix and at the forts on our own
shore boomed out their sounds of joy, and these, intermingled with the
tones of the clanging bells, inspired the people with enthusiasm and
gladness. If our readers will listen for a moment to the Phcenix Hall
bell, they will hear the same strains of sound that greeted the inhabit-
ants of Fairhaven on that night when peace was proclaimed ; for this
building in 1815 was then the Congregational Church, and the bell did
good service in rousing the enthusiasm of the villagers. Bell-ringers
were in abundance, and much of the energy of Fairhaven centered on
the bell-rope and made matters lively during the early morning hours.
"Where is the fire?" inquired an affrighted neighbor at his open win-
dow. Bell and ringers answered his question in emphatic tones, "There
is no fire; but peace."

The celebration of peace and the birthday of Washington were events
that made the 22d of February, 1815, a notable day in the history of
Bedford village. The flags of the United States, England, France,
Spain, Portugal, Denmark and Sweden were flung to the breeze through-
out the town and decorated the vessels lying at the wharves and in the
harbor. The bells continued their peals of thanksgiving. Salutes were
fired and the "friends of peace and the disciples of Washington min-
gled their congratulations " throughout the day. In spite of the stormy
weather, the people gave themselves up to the full enjoyment of the
festive occasion. The celebration culminated in the evening with a
grand display of fireworks, rockets, transparencies, and the illumination
■of the houses. The first mentioned were executed under the charge of
Messrs. Timothy Delano and Benjamin Hill, jr. A beautiful arch was
erected on the corner of Union and Water streets, spanning these thor-
oughfares from the northwest to the southeast corner. This was de-
signed by S. Kempton, and was decorated with devices and inscriptions
representing the union of the States. These were the handiwork of
Messrs. John Harrisson and Charles Grinnell. " The illuminated pil-

A DUAL CELEBRATJON.';^ 229

lars which supported the arch were emblematical of commerce and ag-
riculture. On the keystone of the arch was the figure of the spread
eagle, with the motto E Pliiribiis Uuitm, and the initials G. W., born
1732. The remainder of the arch was formed by transparencies, on
which were represented the arms of the several States, properly arranged.
In raising the arch the pillar representing commerce unfortunately took
fire and was consumed, but by the exertions of the gentlemen con-
cerned its place was soon supplied with a new one." " Thus also," says
the account, " we hope the ruined commerce of our country will again
be restored by the enterprise of our citizens, and arise Phoenix-like with
renovated vigor from the ashes of its former existence." Our venera-
ble townsman, Capt. Russell Maxfield, remembers the fireworks that
were set off that night. He was most impressed with the shooting-
pigeons, so called, which flew to and fro upon long lines of ropes
stretched up Union street.

Mrs. Lydia T. Barnard, whose home was close by, says: " We chil-
dren wanted very much to go out and see the preparations that were
being made for raising the wonderful arch, but the weather was cold,
and mother said, ' If you will be good children, I will let you see it
when all is fixed.' And so, when evening came on, she went with us
to the open doorway, and we gazed with admiration upon the beautiful
structure, brilliant with flags and streamers, and studded with lighted
lanterns. It was a marvelous sight, such as I had never seen before,
and in my timidity I held on to mother's dress, as we stood in the dark-
ness witnessing the beautiful scene." " I will tell thee," says Mrs. Bar-
nard, " how those lanterns were made. Strips of tin were bent into
globular forms, then covered with oiled paper and tallow candles placed
within. They looked like shining stars to our wondering eyes."

The houses throughout Bedford village and Fairhaven were brilliant
with lighted candles in the windows. 'Mid the roar of cannon and peal
of bells and brilliant discharge of fireworks the celebration, such as our*
little Quaker town had never witnessed before, came to an end and the
people retired to their homes, conscious that an era of prosperity had
dawned upon the country. That such a glorious day had come was
manifested in the quick recovery of the paralyzed industries of the
town. Shops, ropewalks; riggers' lofts and shipyards soon resounded

230

HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

with the busy hum of workmen, and the wharves were ahve with the
fitting of ships that had long lain in idleness. The Mercury, that for
many months had been barren of maritime news, soon recorded the de-
parture and arrival of a goodly fleet of vessels. Dread war, with its
train of evils, was banished from our borders, and prosperity followed in
the path of peace.

CUSTOM HOUSE CORNER.-

^q^^^^^jL^^c

THE CITY AT THE CLOSE OF THE WAR.

CHAPTER XIV.

AFTER THE WAR OF 1812-15.

A Restrospective View — A Lucid Description of the Buildings and Streets — The
Great September Gale — Organization of the Bedford Commercial Bank — Amuse-
ments—The Bible Society — Military Matters — Fourth of July, 1823 — Temperance-
First Great Fire — Merchants of 1820 — Important Occurrences — Necrological Record
of First Quarter of the Century.

IT will be interesting to take a retrospective glance at New Bedford
as it appeared at the close of the War of 1812. For a moment the
reader must forget the solid city of to-day, with its compact streets and
its population of 45,000 people, its mammoth cotton-mills and factories,
and the multitude of industries that have changed the city from a whal-
ing port to a progressive manufacturing center. Where are now thor-
oughfares lined with substantial dwellings and business houses, were
fields and meadows, and thickly- wooded forests that supplied the tim-
ber for many staunch ships built upon our shores.

Seventy- five years have made wonderful changes on the western
slope of the Acushnet, as may be seen by the accompanying map made
by Miss Lydia T. Russell in 18 15.1

Let us take a view of the water front as it appeared from the bridge,
which, by the way, was built in 1796, washed away in 1807, rebuilt and
again destroyed in the great September gale, 1815, and again rebuilt in
1819. To-day the abutment of Wilcox's wharf, just north, marks the
water line, only a few feet from the west channel of the drawbridge. In
18 1 5 the shore where the tide ebbed and flowed was up High street,
formerly known as Ark lane, some hundred feet west of North Water
street. An imaginary line drawn from this point (which was a sort of
cove in which floated the arks destroyed by mobs in 1826 and 1829) to
the center of the mill of the New Bedford Manufacturing Company be-

1 The original map was presented to the Public Library in 1SS9 by Francis Hathaway. Miss Rus-
sell was the daughter of Gilbert Russell, and afterwards the wife of William W, Swain.

232 HISTOR y OF NE W BEDFORD.

low North Second street, will give just the water front of the Acushnet
River at that period ; and so it continued its northerly course towards
Willis's point. Only three short wharves broke this shore line. To-
day, east of this imaginary line is the present North Water street, with
its mills, shops, lumber yards, and storehouses; the Old Colony Rail-
road, with its triple tracks, sends its trains in endless succession over
the section where large ships once anchored in security. A view south-
ward reveals Parker's and J. & J. Rowland's wharves very much as they
appear to- day; but beyond this point the shore line took a sharp turn
westward, and the tide flowed close up to Water street. On this shore,
near the foot of Elm street, was built the good ship Dartmouth, of Bos-
ton tea-party fame. From this point to the foot of Commercial street
the outline of the wharves of to-day is much the same as in 1815. But
here the similarity ends, for the river then took a turn westward and
again lapped the shore at Water street. From this point southward,
the shore was as unbroken as when the Indians launched their canoes
from it during the time of King Philip's war. I said unbroken ; not
quite so, for close by the river bank, where now is the foot of Griffin
street, was the Friend's burial ground, the resting-place of many of the
Quakers of early New Bedford.

The bridge toll-house stood where now is Anthony & Swift's meat
depot. Just opposite, facing the open square, was a two-story building
in which was a store kept by the Russells. On Bridge street (that was
what Middle street was called at this time), a small house occupied the
land where now is Parker's block ; opposite was J. & J. Rowland's office
and warehouse, the same building now used as CoflSn's paper box man-
ufactory. The second building on the north side was the post-office
and custom-house. It is still standing, the east end being occupied by
Sturtevant & Parker as a paint shop. Here was transacted the busi-
ness of the United States government, when Asa Smith was postmaster
and John Hawes collector of the port. Many of our elderly people
remember the latter, and the bellows- top chaise in which he rode to
town. The following story is told of him. One day Jehaziel Jenney,
who ran a coasting vessel (the Mary Ann) to New York in the summer
season, landed a lot of barrels, each marked in bold letters " Cheese,"
and which he seemed very anxious the collector should not investigate.

234

HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

This naturally aroused suspicion, and in answer to the question, "What
have you there, Jehaziel ? " he replied, " Nothing but cheese, sir; noth-
ing but cheese. Don't you see it plainly marked? " " Yes, I see," says
the collector, " but I guess we'll open the packages." After a stout
wordy resistance, the barrels were opened and lo ! round, fat cheeses
were found fiUing each one. The collector did not enjoy the chaffing
he received from Jehaziel, a rollicking joker, whose wit and pleasantries
were features in his day. Soon afterward Captain Jenney arrived with
another cargo, and he made an official visit to the custom house.
"Well, Mr. Collector," said he, "I've got on board a lot of smuggled
coffee, and I want you to come down and attend to it." The cheese
episode led the official to decline this request, and he told his visitor to
go away, which he did with alacrity. He proceeded to land his cargo
of coffee and put it in a place of safety. If good Rio wasn't cheaper for
a time in the community, it was not because of a government tax.

West of this building was the dwelling of Asa Smith, the postmaster ;
and just where North Water street opens stood the house of General
Lincoln, who commanded a regiment during the War of 1812. His
official records are now in possession of the Free Public Library. This
same house now stands on High street. The building now standing on
the northwest corner of Middle and Water streets was in those early
da\'s the residence of Samuel Rodman, jr. It should be remembered
that in that part now embraced by Union, Second, and Middle streets
were located the homes of many of the well-to-do citizens. There
were 106 dwellings, stores, and shops in the northeasterly section
bounded by Purchase and Middle streets. To-day this same territory
is filled with cotton- mills, factory villages, railroad buildings; its spa-
cious streets are lined with residences, and the border line of the shore
is pushed well out into the Acushnet River. If the reader is surprised
by the fact that this region was sparsely settled, what will he think
when from the same standpoint we take a northwesterly view ? For
only twenty-six buildings stood in all that section, and a majority of
these were on the borders of Purchase and Middle streets.

Retracing our steps, we will walk through W^ater street. The granite
building on the southeast corner of Middle was the candle-works of
John Howland in i8i5,and the dwelling-house opposite was once the

TOPOGRAPHICAL FEATURES.

235

residence of Capt. Reuben Swift, a commander of a militia company in
i8i2. His son, Capt. Rodolphus N. Swift, of Acushnet, says that the
magnificent elm tree on Water street, just north of Elm, was planted by
Capt. Latham Cross in 1804.

The large building owned by F. A. Sowle on the southwest corner of
Elm and Water streets was the substantial residence of Thomas Hazard,
a prominent merchant in his day, and his garden extended westward
to Second street.

The building on the northwest corner of William and Water streets,
now Snell's bakery, was in the early days of the century the residence
of Samuel Rodman, sr., and his grounds extended to where now stands
the Institution for Savings.

Now that we are on William street, we will journey westward, and
note the location of the buildings in this part of the town in 1 8 1 5. Tlie
watch-house, the house of correction of the period, stood near the
northwest corner of William and North Second streets ; and on the lat-
ter street, half way to Elm street, was located the new Congregational
meeting-house. Here worshiped the society gathered by Rev. Sylves-
ter Holmes, now the North Congregational Church. A dwelling stood
next north, on the corner of Elm street, that was set on fire during the
British invasion in 1778; the charred timbers may still be seen in the
cellar of the house on Elm street, just west of its former location. Only
three other small buildings stood on this section bounded by North
Second, Elm, Purchase and William streets.

To the north stood the house of John Avery Parker, now a part of
the Parker House. Spacious gardens were on the south and east of
this, the house of one of the most successful merchants of his day.
There were nine houses in this section bounded by North Second, IMid-
dld. Purchase and Elm streets.

Where now stands the North Christian Church was the house of
Thomas Swain, a brother of William W. Swain. Elm street contained
but two houses, and in those early days extended a few hundred feet
west of Sixth street. The broad section west of Purchase and between
Middle and Union streets was open field and bush pasture, except the
land occupied by the houses immediately facing the latter thoroughfare
and Purchase street. There are a number of our elderly citizens who

236 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

in olden times picked huckleberries where now stands City Hall.
Much of this land was owned by William Rotch, and portions of it
were under cultivation. It was a patch of ground where City Hall now
stands that Jehaziel Jenney proposed to plant " on halves," and the
proposition was accepted by the proprietor. The harvest season came
and went, and as winter approached Mr. Rotch concluded that it was
time a settlement of accounts was made. Meeting Jehaziel one day, he
made inquiries about the matter. " Why, haven't you got your half,
Mr. Rotch ? I got mine long ago," was the bland reply he received.
On further investigation it was found that Jahaziel had sublet the con-
tract to another party on the same terms. He had taken good care to
receive his half and left the landed proprietor to look out for his own in-
terests. Mr. Rotch accepted the situation good naturedly and quietl}'
remarked as the interview closed, " Thee can have the land on the same
terms next year, Jehaziel."

Where now stands Liberty Hall was the First Congregational Church,
the parent society of the Unitarian denomination in our city.

We will now go down to Water street and commence our observa-
tionssouth of William. On the cornerwhere now are thestores of Messrs.
Wood, Brightman & Co., stood the imposing residence of William
Rotch, jr., his gardens extending to North Second street. This build-
ing is now the Mariners' Home, and stands on the hill north of the Sea-
men's Bethel — a gift to the New Bedford Port Society from Mrs. James
Arnold, a daughter of Mr. Rotch. Center street was lined with build-
ings on both sides to the river, and many of them are still standing.
The district north of this to Middle street was unoccupied, save three
small buildings at the foot of Elm. Along the wharves south were
scattered the warehouses, shops, and stores connected with the mari-
time business of the port. " Four Corners " (the intersection of Water
and Union streets) was the stock exchange of the day ; and about this
localit}' the business men congregated for political and social gossip.
On the southeast corner was the Bristol County-House, and south of it
was the warehouse and office of Isaac Howland. Next to these was the
building in which was published the morning Mercury. All these build-
ings are in existence to- day. The district north of Union and east of
Water is interesting, and we cannot afford to leave it without a glance at

TOPOGRAPHICAL FEATURES. 237

some of the buildings. Those incorporated in the art estabhsliment of
Charles Taber & Co. are all of historic interest. The house on Union
street ne.xt to the corner was the home of Benjamin Taber, the ancestor
of the family which has held this property through successive genera-
tions. Rose alley, a narrow lane still in existence, south of S. A. Tripp's
tin shop, furnished a well of delicious water to the neighborhood. Deb-
orah Doubleday kept a tavern in the building now occupied by the
Western Union Telegraph Co. This building has before been mentioned
in connection with the American Revolution. During the War of 18 12
military officers made it headquarters. East of this section there were
a number of warehouses and shops. It is evident that this part of the
river front was the busy center for the fitting of ships. Union street
was the main thoroughfare of the town, both sides being well occupied
with residences of prominent citizens, the principal one being that of
William Rotch, now the Mansion House. Poplar trees stood along the
front, and his garden occupied well nigh the whole square bounded
by Purchase and William streets. Among other residents on Union
street (which then terminated at County) were Dr. Frederick Reed, Col.
John Coggeshall, Mr. Tobey, Benoni Aldrich, Mr. Mayhew, Isaac How-
land, Dr. Spooner, Edward Pope, Caleb Greene, Roger Haskell, Dr.
Perry, and J. Ricketson. These lived on the north side ; while on the
south lived Capt. Samuel Stall, commander of the artillery company.
Mr. Russell, and Golden Howland, whose house was recently removed
to make place for the Winslow building on the corner of Sixth street.
On the southeast corner of Fourth and Union streets was located the
Nelson Hotel, kept by Capt. Nathaniel Nelson, commander of the in-
fantry company. This tavern was the scene of many p^iblic festivities,
and formed the headquarters for Fourth of July parades. East of the
hotel was the home of William Russell, and below it was the home-
stead of Joseph Ricketson. The gardens of Messrs. Russell and Rick-
etson occupied the whole square bounded by Acushnet avenue', Spring-
and Fourth streets. The buildings are still standing.

The most thickly settled portion of the town was south of Union, yet
Madison street was the actual limit, there being but few houses beyond.
Among these were the homes of Job Eddy, James Arnold, Sands Wing,
B. Howland, F. Howland, and Cornelius Grinnell — familiar names to

238 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

many of our readers. On the west side of Water street, south of Union,
we find the residences of Messrs. Hill, Blackmer, Shepherd, J. Howland,
Whippy, Fitch, Pardon Howland, Tuckerman, and James Allen ; on
First street, those of Parker, Howland, and Card ; on Second street, J.
DaVis, Caleb Congdon, and Mr. Barstow, and on Third street — now
known as Acushnet avenue — lived William Meader, Mr. Gardner, Allen
Case, Benjamin Taber, J. Barker, Caleb Jenney, and Job Otis.

Fourth and Fifth streets ended at School street, and the area south
of Union between Seventh and Third consisted of open fields. The
gun-house stood on the square southeast of the Friends' meeting-house
on Spring street. On Seventh lived the Thorntons, Congdons, and
Nortons; on W^alnut, Lemuel Williams and C. Howland.

All the section west of County street was a forest, the only buildings
being Gilbert Russell's residence at the head of Walnut street, Abraham
Russell's at the head of Union, the Friends' Academy (where now
stands the County Street Methodist Episcopal Church), and the Kemp-
ton House at the head of North street.

The whole town contained 506 houses in 1S15. Walnut street was
the southern border of the village — beyond it dense woods, only broken
by the county road that led to Clark's Cove.

On Saturday morning, September 29, 1815, New Bedford was visited
by a tremendous gale, that for violence and disaster has never been
equaled in the history of the town. The gale began early in the day
and continued with great violence till midday. The tide rose ten feet
above high water mark, and four feet higher than ever was reached be-
fore. So rapid was its rise that the occupants of the stores and ware-
houses situatec^ along the river front were compelled to leave them
hurriedly, abandoning their goods and merchandise. Several merchants
lost their account books and papers. The destruction of property was
very serious, and was accompanied by the loss of several lives. In New
Bedford the salt-works belonging to Caleb Russell, situated in the south
part of the town, were carried away, and the ropewalks of Griffin Bar-
ney, William Rotch, jr., and Butler & Allen (see map) were partially
destroyed. Jonathan Card's turning-mill, William Coffin, jr.'s, boat-
builder shop, Mr. Wilcox's blacksmith shop. Cannon's tallow chandlery,
a range of stores on Rotch's wharf, and other business houses were

THE SEPTEMBER GALE. 239

wholly or partially destroyed. Several dwelling-houses were blown
down, all the wharves injured, and some of them ruined. The Bedford
and Fairhaven bridge and the one at Head -of the- River were carried
away, and also the salt-works belonging to Dr. S. Perry. Sixteen ves-
sels that were moored at the wharves were blown adrift and thrown
ashore at different points on the shore and islands. At Fairhaven much
damage was done along the river front, several stores, warehouses, a
ropewalk, and salt-works being destroyed.

A distressing occurrence during this tornado was the drowning of a
woman named Temperance Perry. She was on board a vessel from
Sandwich, bound for Newport, that put in for a harbor in the gale.
During the gale this woman fell overboard and was drowned in spite of
the exertions made to save her. William Macy, in his noble eftbrts to
save a citizen in a dangerous position, fell from a boat and sacrificed his
life. Marmaduke Tinkham, his son, and two nephews, were all drowned
at Fairhaven.

When the ship Augustus parted her moorings at Rotch's wharf, a
young man named Haskins was left on a pile that stood detached from
the ruins of the wharf His perilous position was seen from the shore
and every exertion was made to relieve him, but without avail. The
wind and waves beat upon him and the floating wreckage endangered
his life, while it hindered his rescue ; but he remained till wind and tide
abated, and then was brought safely to the shore.

The rapid recovery of the town from its business depression is plainly
indicated in the establishment of the Bedford Commercial Bank, suc-
cessor of the Bedford Bank, whose charter expired in 18 12. The char-
ter was renewed, but on account of the war with England, it was not
renewed and its affairs closed. There was no bank in operation in New
Bedford from 18 12 to 18 16. '

The Bedford Commercial Bank was organized May 31, 1816, with
George Howland as president. The directors were Joseph Ricketson,
Gideon Howland, jr., Seth Russell, jr., James Arnold, and George
Howland.

The inhabitants were not without entertainment, both amusing and
instructive, at this period. At Nelson's Hotel, July i, 18 16, Mr. Wood
had a museum, in which were exhibited " six wax figures. Name's new

240 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

invented patent electrical machine," and a " faithful and elegant repre-
sentation of the American Navy."

The Bible Society, John Hawes, president, was organized June 27,
l8j7. It continues to this day, a power for good in the community.

The decade following the close of the War of 1812 had but little of
interest in military affairs. The experiences of the town during the
year 18 14, and the presence of a thousand soldiers quartered within our
borders for the protection of the seacoast had satisfied the most ardent
advocates of war; and the peace principles of the Society of Friends,
which dominated in Bedford village, served to confine military affairs
to the simplest requirement of law. An artillery and infantry company
were maintained. The former, under the command of Lieutenant Dun-
ham, rendered patriotic service on the Fourth of July, 18 16. In 18 18
the Second Regiment, Second Brigade, Fifth Division, to which our
local organizations belonged, consisted of fifteen companies and held its
annual muster in Dartmouth. In 18 19 Benjamin Lincoln of this town
was elected Major- General in command of the Fifth Division; Col.
Nathaniel Nelson was also in command of the Second Regiment ; Capt.
Reuben Swift commanded the infantry company, and Captain Dunham
the artillery company. The annual muster was held in Dartmouth,
with headquarters at Hallet Gifford's inn. The following is the roll of
the Fairhaven company, as returned at this muster :

Field inspection roll of Capt. Harrison G. Church's company of foot, Tuesday, Octo-
ber 12, 1819: Captain, Harrison G. Church; lieutenants, WiUiatn S. West, John
Weeden ; sergeants, Henry Akin, Wilson Hammond, John A. Hawes, Wilson Pope ;
Asa F. Taber, Alfred Blankenship, Isaac Sanford, Ebenezer Tomson, Benjamin Wilson,
Jerard Taber, John A. Hawkes, John Tomson, Jethro Taber, Samuel Hathaway, jr.,
W. M. Hit'ch, ^oble Gelatt, Abraham Shaw, Wilson Pope, Henry Aikins, James Mar-
\'el, Richard Shaw, John Delano, Rufus Allen, jr., Silas Allen, Isaac 3teven.s, Henry
Delano, Levi Blossom, William Shaw, jr., Thoma's Shaw, Joseph Blossom, jr., George
Shaw, Ansel Stetson, Silas Pope, Luke Tobey, Elisha Tobey, Holden Jelatt, Ebenezer
Delano, Joseph Delano. Antony Allen, Wilson Hammond, Nathan Kempton, Ansel
Brigs, Lemuel Tripp, jr. Ebenezer Tripp, Alden Allen, Reuben Delano.

In 1822 a regulation uniform for the State militia was adopted, and
we take the following description of it from the official order. It will
be interesting, for we can understand how grandly the citizen soldiery
appeared on celebration days. The artillery companies were attired in

^^^^(^^TM^^i^^

FIRST GREAT FIRE. 241

coatees, with scarlet collars, scarlet vests, dark blue trousers with broad
scarlet stripes, edged with gold or yellow worsted lace, and plumes or
pompons, black tipped with red. The drivers wore white frocks and
trousers, black round hats with a pompon, and a yellow- metal plate in
front, and black leather sword belts. The infantry companies wore
coatees, with white underclothes, the trousers over the boots. The
non-commissioned officers and privates wore metal plates and pompons
in front, white tipped with black. It was probably in this uniform that
the infantry company, under command of Capt. Reuben Swift, marched
to Fairhaven on the Fourth of July, 1823, and did escort duty in the
procession on that day.

Among the exercises on this occasion was a sermon in the church,
preached by Rev. Mr. Gould. A public dinner was served to nearly
200 people in a tent erected on the green (an open lot immediately
south of Union street and between Main and Middle streets). For the
convenience of the public, dinner tickets were placed on sale in the bar-
room of Mr. Dabney's hotel. It is evident that the committee of arrange-
ments provided a programme to suit the diversified tastes of all. The
officers of the Fairhaven company, -which probably paraded on this
occasion, were : Captain, John A. Hawes ; lieutenant, W. I. Jenney ;
ensign, Jeremiah Taber 2d.

A vigorous temperance movement was inaugurated in the town in
1S19, and public action was taken. May 26, to suppress the "sale of
cider and other intoxicating liquors to minors, so that their morals
may not be corrupted, and their future prospect blasted, by habits they
may have acquired in their youth."

The account of the first great fire is thus described in the Mercury ot
September 8, 1820: " On Wednesday mornmg, about half-past four^ .
the inhabitants of this town were alarmed by the cry of fire, which orig-
inated in the extensive bakehouse of Mr. Enoch Horton, situated on
the street leading from the Commercial Bank to William Rotch's (for-
merly Gilbert Russell's) wharf. In a few minutes the whole building
was involved in flames which spread to an adjoining wood-house, con-
taining a large quantity of dry pine wood, and in spite of the exertions
of the citizens, aided by seven engines [these without doubt included
the two across the river], which were constantly playing on the deso-

242 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

lating element, it spread in almost every direction, consuming in its
progress the buildings on the east, west and north of it, until by great
exertions it was finally subdued, just as it was communicating to the
store of Peter Barney, on the southeast and the dwelling-house owned
by Gilbert Russell on the west. Had either of these buildings been
permanently on fire, no human exertions could have arrested its prog-
ress until a large part of the town had been laid in ashes ; and had there
not, fortunately, been an entire calm at the time, we should, in all prob-
ability, have had to record a calamity scarcely inferior to those of Wil-
mington and Savannah. The buildings destroyed were a bakehouse,
owned and occupied by Mr. Enoch Horton ; a large three-story build-
ing, owned and occupied by Mr. John Perkins, as a store and paper-
staining manufactory ; a store, owned and occupied by Mr. John Har-
rison as a paint store, etc. ; a store, owned by Mr. Gilbert Russell and
partly occupied by William Card, block-maker ; a store, owned by Mr.
William Tallman, and occupied by Mr. Churchill, grocer; two cooper
shops, one owned by Mr. Reuben Russell, and the other by Mr. AUer-
ton Delano ; a shoe-shop, occupied by Mr. James Bosworth ; a black-
smith shop, occupied by Mr. Nathan Durfee, and a barn owned by Mr.
G. Russell. We understand that Mr. Perkins and Mr. Harrison are the
greatest sufferers ; the loss of the former is estimated at about $4,000 ;
the latter, upwards of $3,000 ; that of Mr. Horton, about $1,500 ; and
the total at about $12,000."

On September 22, 1820, the inhabitants were privileged, for twelve
and one-half cents, to see two camels that, it was said, " were imported
direct from Africa." They were on exhibition at Ivory H. Bartlett's
stable.

A stage route to Newport and Providence, via Stone Bridge, was
established November 9, 1820.

Among the merchants doing business in New Bedford in 1820 were
Isaac Howland, jr., & Company, flour, iron hoops, etc.; William James,
ship stores ; H. Taylor, shoes and dry goods ; Oliver Swain, boots and
shoes ; George Sisson, crockery and glassware ; Jonathan Ellis, plows ;
Caleb Green, drugs ; T. T. Churchill, W. & G. Allen, J. R. Shiverick,
Perry & Tobey, Joseph Bourne, Henry Tucker & Son, dealers in dry
goods ; Nye & Grinnell, groceries and provisions ; Hussey & Allen,

VARIOUS EVENTS. 243

leather, flour, etc.; Seth Russell & Son, iron ; Samuel Rodman, jr.,
cordage, duck, and oil ; John A. Parker, iron ; Thomas S. & N. Hath-
away, hemp, duck, iron ; Gorham & Parker, groceries and provisions ;
A. Sherman, books, stationery, bindery, etc.; Harvey SuUings, hard-
ware ; Samuel W. Heath, crockery ; Isaac Manchester, leather and
shoes; Job Baker, groceries; Green & Tillinghast, dry goods; Randall
& Haskell, grocers and ship chandlers ; Barney Cory kept a tavern at
" Sign of the Swan ; " Benjamin Pitman opened a silver manufactory,
June 2, 1821.

Friday, June 19, 1821, was the coldest day for many a year; the
thermometer stood at twelve degrees below zero at sunrise. On Thurs-
day following, the bay, except a small rip south of Naushon, was en-
tirely frozen over.

Daniel K. Whitaker opened a classical school in New Bedford, April
22, 1821. An exhibition was given at Mr. Cory's coffee-house in April
of that year by J. Filley, a fancy glass-blower, from London. In Octo-
ber Mr. Nichols, the American ventriloquist, gave a performance at
Colonel Nelson's hotel.

Fourth of July, 1821, was celebrated with a procession, fireworks,
speeches and toasts.

A Roman Catholic church was announced to be dedicated by the
Rt. Rev. Bishop Cheverus, of Boston, on Sunday, July 29, 1821, but
for some reason this was indefinitely postponed.

A meeting of the Dialectic Society was held in September, 1821.
This society was formed in 181 1, and its object was " intellectual cul-
ture and social intercourse." The exercises were mostly debates upon
questions previously agreed upon. Several formal addresses were de-
livered before the society, and many papers of great ability were writ-
ten by the members and read at its meetings. One by John Mason
Williams, then a resident of New Bedford, delivered September i, 18 17,
was of singular ability and beauty. William Sawyer Wall, Abraham
Shearman, jr., John Howland, jr., Jeremiah Winslow, Samuel Rodman,
jr., Thomas Rotch, John Summers Russell, James Arnold, Thomas A.
Greene, Lemuel Williams, jr., John Mason Williams, and William Ba-
ker were among its early members.

December 14, 1822, the market and town-house was opened to tiie

244 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

public. It is the same building now used for the Central Police Sta-
tion on South Second street. The New Bedford Reading-Room was
in existence in 1823, and James Coggeshall was secretary.

An extraordinary gale and snow-storm began on Sunday, March 30,
1823, and for a week there was no communication with the outer
world. On the 23d of December, of the same year, there occurred a
remarkable rain-storm. It continued for twenty hours, and four or five
inches of rain fell. The record says " the oldest peopled© not recollect
such a rain."

Monday, July 4, 1823, was celebrated with great spirit. Tlie Light
Infantry, Captain Washburn, went through evolutions, and the \\^ash-
ington Artillery, Lieutenant Sylvester, " displayed wonderful skill and
discipline." There was an exhibition of fireworks in the evening

The Mozart Society, an organization for the practice of sacred music,
was organized in 1824, and gave a public performance in Rev. William
Dewey's meeting-house, December 2, 1824. This society, the first of
the kind in the town, will be further mentioned in the chapter on mu-
sical societies. The free use of the town-hall for rehearsals was granted
the society by the town authorities.

June 6, 1825, Benjamin Lindsey opened a reading and news-room,
that for si.xty years continued to be the headquarters for the business
men of the town.

The ordination of Elder Harve\- Sullings, as a preacher of the gospel,
among the people " usually denominated Christians," took place in the
North Baptist Church, June 26, 1825. The introductory prayer was
offered by Elder Charles Morgridge.

Among the deaths that occurred in the town in the first quarter of
the century were the following :

InlSO'2, June 9, Col. Seth Pope, aged eighty-three, a prominent figure in our local
history during the American Revolution; 1S03, April 3, Hon. Walter Spooner, aged
eighty-one; 1804, October 16, Joseph Russell, aged eighty-six; 1805, April 15, Dr.
Samuel Perry, aged seventy-five ; 1807, September 24, Rev. Samuel West, aged seventy-
eight; 1809, November 7, Maj. Ebenezer Willis, aged eighty-three; 1814, July 22,
Gamaliel Bryant, aged — ; 1816, November 13, William Sawyer Wall, aged forty-
eight ; 1816, December 31, Elisha Thornton, aged seventy ; 1817, July 17, Capt. Nathan-
iel Pope, aged seventy ; 1820, October 26, Dr. Samuel Perry, aged fifty-six; 1820, De-
cember 31, Deacon Jabez Hammond, aged fifty-one; 1822, September 11, Hannah An-

A MYSTERIOUS MURDER.

245

drews, aged 101 years and six months; 1823, January 20, Capt. Benjamin Hill, aged
sixty-eight; 1823, February 20, Capt. Silas Parker, aged eighty; 1823, April 4, Capt.
George Whippey, aged seventy-eight; 1823, May 5, Mrs. Susannah Maxfield, aged
seventy; 1823, September 21, Jeremiah Mayhew, aged seventy-nine; 1824, August 11,
Daniel Ricketson, aged seventy-nine ; 1824, August 11, Zaohariah Hillman, aged sixty-
six; 1825, February 25, James Davis, aged eighty-one; 1825, John Hawes, aged — ;
1825, January 30, Thomas Taber, aged seventy-nine; 1825, AugustSl, John Pickens,
aged eighty-three; 1825, August 12, Abraham Ricketson, aged seventy-eight; 1825,
September 5, Capt. Thomas Cook, aged eighty-five; 1826, March 18; Abraham Smith,
postmaster for twenty years, aged seventy-seven.

CHAPTER XV.

1S26-30.

"Hard Dig" — A Mysterious Murder — Mob Law — "The Ark" — Origin of the
Name — Story of the First Ark Riot — A Second Ark— The Second Riot— The Mer-
cury's Account of the Affair — Action of the People, in Town Meeting Assembled,
Regarding the Riots — The " Committee of Vigilance " — The Militia.

IN 1826, one August day, our village was greatly agitated by the ru-
mor that the dead body of a man had been found in the woods, near
a notorious neighborhood called " Hard Dig," on Kempton street, just
west of what is now the base ball park. A company of boys, who were
picking huckleberries, made the ghastly discovery and hastened into
the town with the report. Several citizens went out taking the lads
with them for guides. When they reached the spot the body had been
removed, though they discovered unmistakable evidence that the story
of the boys was true. The fact of the mysterious disappearance of a
ship carpenter at this time (from whom no tidings were ever received)
gave color to the report of murder. " Hard Dig " was occupied by the
dangerous and vicious classes, and was a constant menace to good or-
der. It was unsafe to travel in that vicinity after dark.

The report of this murder soon came to the knowledge of the whole
town and caused great excitement among the people. While the law-

246 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

abiding citizens would have had this iniquity crushed out by legal
measures, others concluded to take the law in their own hands. A mob
was organized that evening at Kempton street corner, and, after matur-
ing plans, it proceeded in full force to its work. The first house pulled
down was that of Jake Peterson, a leader of the place. Then other
buildings were quickly demolished and set on fire. In two hours' time
the mob had effectually cleaned out the whole nuisance.

David B. Kempton lived at that time on County street ; and stand-
ing in his yard that evening, he distinctly heard the shouts of the mob
and the blows of the axes. Wild with their success, the proposition to
raid the Ark was received with enthusiasm by the mob. It was agreed,
however, to postpone it till the next night. To more clearly under-
stand the Ark riots, our readers must understand that the river front at
the foot of High street, at this period, was about 200 feet east of North
Second street, where there was a sort of cove, the south side of which
ran due east to the bridge. The Ark stood upon the shore as far as the
high tide would permit, and was blocked under the keel to keep it in a
firm position. The exact position was just where Charles S. Paisler's
brick building on Water street is now located. The Ark was the hull
of the old whaler Camillus, with a house built on and entirely covering
the deck. A portico or walk about four feet wide was built outside,
running the entire length on both sides of the vessel, and was reached
by steps from the shore.

It may be interesting to mention how the name " The Ark " came to
be given to this infamous vessel. A whaler named The Ark was
owned in and sailed from Nantucket in 18 19. She made several voy-
ages and was finally brought to this port to be broken up. Joseph
Wilcox, jr., remembers when she arrived here, and that she was taken
to Rotch's wharf, where she lay for some before being demolished. The
stern board with this name The Ark was secured and mounted on the
upper deck of the Camillus in a conspicuous place, and so this bark was
called " The Ark." The craft was at first occupied by respectable fami-
lies in moderate circumstances, but soon came to a baser use, and finally
was a brothel of the worst character. Its existence was a moral offence
to the community, and its removal was earnestly desired by good citi-
zens. It must not be understood that they encouraged riotous proceed-

248 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

ings, however much satisfaction they may have felt at the resuhs. And
now for the story of the first Ark riot.

The inmates had learned during the day of the proposed raid and,
with their sympathizers, had gathered before night a plentiful supply of
stones and other missiles, including bottles of scalding hot water. After
dark the crowds began to gather and matters looked ominous. Soon
Timothy G. Coffin appeared and attempted to read the riot act, and
probably did so, though it is said he was marched off the ground. Men
appeared with hooks and ladders, and the attack commenced in good
earnest. Stones f^ew in all directions, and so did bottles of hot water ;
but the besieged still held the fort till a ship's gun had been brought
into position, loaded — all made ready to fire. Then they succumbed
and offered to march out. They were allowed to do so. Then the Ark
was torn to pieces with axe and crowbar, and was then burned. Now
this formidable gun was in fact a "Quaker." When found on an adjoin-
ing wharf, it was actually filled with mud. Its use never was seriously
contemplated. After being drawn in position before the Ark, an imag-
inary cartridge was rammed home with a stick and the match was about
to be applied, when the surrender was made. The fire of course called
out the engines, but their work principally was to protect the surround-
ing buildings.

The above facts have been given me by Capt. Joseph Wilcox, jr.,
who was present, but not a rioter, and who remembers very clearly the
whole proceedings. Possibly a deeper impression was made on him,
because he was hit on the shin with a large stone thrown from the Ark.
Some fifty citizens were afterward subpoenaed before the court at Taun-
ton, to give testimony of the riot, but they all proved genuine Know
Nothings, and so the matter was dropped.

A second Ark soon appeared that became a terror indeed. The hull
of this craft was the ship Indian Chief ; and it was located farther west
than the first, and about fifty feet southwest of the red house on the
south side of Ark lane. It was occupied by the worst classes and was
the abode of debauchery and evil doing. Citizens were in daily fear,
not only of their property but of their lives. Any attempt to banish
the scourge failed, and it soon became apparant that law was held in
effectual defiance.

THE SECOND ARK RIOT. 249

In the spring of 1829 the Elm Street Methodist Episcopal Church
was set on fire, on a Saturday evening. The lower story of the build-
ing was stored full of casks of oil. The fire was discovered about 1 1
o'clock, just in time to prevent a serious conflagration ; for it was
thought that had the great quantity of oil taken fire, it would have de-
stroyed all the buildings east to the river, as the running oil must have
spread quickly down the steep hill, carrying destruction in its path.
The audience room was uninjured ; and the pastor. Rev. Timothy Mer-
ritt, preached a sermon on Sunday morning from the text, " Except the
Lord keep the city, the watchmen waketh in vain." The general feel-
ing in the community was that some of the desperate characters from
the Ark set the church on fire. For this incident I am indebted to
Mrs. Josiah Richmond.

The reign of terror continued till August 29, when the second Ark
riot occurred. I am indebted to James Durfee, Henry R. Wilcox, Ro-
dolphus Beetle, David B. Kempton, Joseph Wilcox, jr., and others, for
valuable material concerning this incident.

The Ark was kept by a notoriously bad character named Titus Peck,
a bully and desperado. He and his associates were a menace to the
whole town. So strong was their power it was said the selectmen were
afraid to interfere with their riotings. For days before the outbreak in
the streets and work-shops were heard the mysterious words " Jerry,"
" Jerry, keep dark north end," " Keep dark south end," " Jerry is in
town." What did all this mean ? was the inquiry on every lip. Ru-
mor followed rumor in quick succession; then it became vaguely un-
derstood that there was to be a meeting of citizens in the town hall
(now (Central Police Station) on the following Saturday evening. To
the surprise of everybody, everybody else was there. The hall was
packed full, more than 200 men being in and about the building. \\'hile
there seemed to be no organization, it was evident that well developed
plans were laid. The respectable and influential citizens, among whom
were Gideon Howland, Samuel Rodman, Thomas Mandell, J. A. Par-
ker, Jethro Hillman, Zachariah Hillman, Francis Taber, and Barney
Taber, used their utmost influence to prevent an outbreak. The riot
act was read by Timothy G. Coffin, but when the 9 o'clock bell on Dr.
Dewey's church rang out, a shout from many throats went up "Jerry

250 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

is in town. Hurrah for the Ark ! " and pell-mell went everybody to
the vicinity of Ark lane. Here was found the hook and ladder truck,
brought there by unknown hands. Then suddenly appeared a company
of masked men, dressed in coats turned inside out, trousers covered with
white canvass at the knees, and slouch hats. There were twenty- five
of these uniformed rioters. The truck was rapidly stripped of its lad-
ders and hooks, and the destruction of the Ark commenced. Mr. Cof-
fin, with a lighted lantern in his hand, appeared in the dense crowd
gathered near the corner of Middle and Second streets. Somebody
paid his respects to the lantern, and darkness came suddenly on. He
was good-naturedly hustled about, and it is said to be a fact that he
was passed over the heads of the crowd and safely landed where he had
more room. The work of destruction completed, most of the people
went home at midnight, but soon were called out by flames streaming
from the ill-fated craft, for the torch was not applied till 12 o'clock.
The Ark was burned to the water's edge, and when morning broke
naught was left of it but smoking timbers. Several small houses were
burned in the conflagration. The fire department was on hand, but ac-
complished little. The Mechanic, No. 6, took water at the foot of
Middle street, but the leading hose did not reach the fire by fifty feet.
After long delay, the position of the engine was changed to Beetle's spar-
yard. I give now the account published in the New Bedford Mercury,
August 28, 1829: "What happened three years ago has within the last
week been re-enacted, with little variation of mode or circumstance.
From the ashes of the old Ark, demolished and burned in August, 1826,
has arisen Phcenix-Iike, it would seem. Ark the second, transcending
as a den of abominations anything that tradition has to relate of Ark
the first. On Saturday night last, it met the doom of its ill-omened
progenitor, was razed to the ground, and consumed by fire. We would
not be understood as favoring or advocating in the slightest degree the
adoption of forcible measures by lawless assemblages. It is altogether
a thing to be deprecated and discountenanced ; but there certainly is a
difference between the riotous outbreakings of a turbulent spirit, impell-
ing to promiscuous outrage, and violence, and operations, although un-
sanctioned by law, which tend to a specific purpose at least imagined
good, and are characterized in the process by as much order and regard

M. :#

< V^

Z^o^

tiniciul. /lZ

TOJVJV ACT/ON AG A/A' ST RIOTERS. 251

for decorum as marked those of Saturday evening. We think that in
justice to the character of our town this destruction in the case before
us ought to be made. The wanton recklessness and profligacy which
gives to a riotous mob its most hideous features was not discernible on
this occasion. Still it does not do to say in such an affair that the end
can justify the means, as who can predict of lawless measures what the
end may be? And in this very instance, whether the fire was applied
to the materials of which the Ark was composed by the hand that de-
molished it or not, it was a direct and immediate consequence of the
act of demolition, and came near spreading the calamity to an extent
truly appalling. Nothing but the lavorable state of the wind and the
admirable management of the firemen prevented a conflagration which
might very speedily have extended itself over a good part of the vil-
lage. As it was, houses owned and occupied by quiet, peaceful citi-
zens, who could ill afford to sustain the loss, were most unfortunately
included in its ravages. Here, then, is a solemn warning against all
attempts at correcting abuses by violent and lawless means ; and as
such it ought to be seriously regarded. The truth undoubtedly is that
the early and efficacious application of the civil authority to abate the
nuisance would have obviated all the evils of which it has been so fruit-
ful a source. We are glad to learn that energetic meas.ures are now in
train for the suppression of other establishments of a like odious and
demoralizing description. As with other maritime places, there is a
degraded class of population brought within our borders, which can
only be kept within the bounds of decency by vigorous police regula-
tions. As the navigation of the port increases, the necessity for such
regulations becomes the more apparent, and we have not the least doubt
but that, perceiving the need, there will be found both the disposition
and ability in those unto whom it legally appertains to second the gen-
eral wish by adopting adequate measures of prevention in a matter of
such growing importance to the communit}'."

The Howard House, on North Second street, was soon marked as a
victim by the riotous elements. It bore a reputation similar to that of
the Arks. Benjamin Rodman, one of the selectmen, hearing of the pro-
posed raid, notified the people, and when the mob came to do their
work they were informed in a speech made by Mr. Rodman that the

252 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

house was vacated. They saluted him with three hearty cheers.
"There are eleven of us," they said as they vanished in the darkness.
What the significance of this saying was is unknown. I am indebted
to Thomas R. Rodman for this incident.

On June 30, 1 830, a town meeting was held to " see if the town will
take into consideration the expediency of adopting measures to prevent
the further destruction of property by riotous assemblages, and also to
see if the town will think it proper to take any further measures to se-
cure the safety of the town, in consequence of the recent burnings of
dwelling-houses in the vicinit)-, agreeable to petition of J. A. Parker and
ten others." Samuel Rodman, Jos. Ricketson, D. Davenport, John
Howland, jr., Nathan Hathaway, James B. Congdon, Timothy I. Dyer,
Benjamin Rodman, and Seth Russell, were appointed a committee
to take into consideration the subject proposed. The committee
made report : " Your committee are of the opinion that it is highly
necessary that measures should be taken by the town in its cor-
porate capacity to indicate its deep reprobation and abhorrence of
the riotous proceedings and their attendant crimes, which have recentlj'
taken place in this vicinity. Your committee believe that a direct par-
ticipation in said unlawful acts was confined to a comparatively small
number of persons, but that these were countenanced and encouraged
by a much greater number of the young, ignorant, and the thoughtless
who were present, and who perhaps supposed they had an apology for
their unwarrantable forbearance in omitting to suppress the disturb-
ance in the degraded character of its victims, which cut them off from
general sympath}-. These and all others ought to know that the insti-
tution of civil government is designed to protect every individual in his
rights, and especially to guard the weak and defenceless against the
aggressions of the unprincipled and the strong. To the culprit even it
guarantees by scrupulous formalities an impartial investigation of the
charges alleged against him before it visits upon him the penalty affixed
to his crime. Subversive then of all order, of all safety of property and
life, not only to the class which have now been the sufferers, but to all,
in the spirit of aggression and crime, which marks the late proceedings;
and while they stamp the perpetrators as criminals of a flagrant charac-
ter, on whom if convicted the law would visit its heaviest penalties, all

VIGILANCE COMMITTEE CHOSEN. 253

who encourage tliem by their presence or otherwise are guilty of a mis-
demeanor against the peace and good order of society, which admits of
but sHght extenuation from the plea of ignorance or levity. To guard
the future against a repetition of such atrocious scenes as have on this
and other occasions disgraced our town and vicinity, the resolution ap-
pended to this report is herewith respectfully submitted to the con-
sideration of the town."

" Yottd, To accept said report with the resolution appended: to wit:
" Voted, That a large committee be appointed, to consist of persons resident in the
different sections of the town, which committee shall be called ' The Committee of Vigi-
lance ; ' and it shall be the duty of the committee to communicate to the selectmen any
information which may come to their knowledge of any design on the part of any evil-
disposed persons to injure or destroy the property of any citizen, and be in readiness
promptly to act, under tne direction of the municipal authorities, to prevent any threat-
ened outrage ; and it shall be the further duty of the committee to communicate to the
selectmen any information of which they may become possessed, which may render in-
creased vigilance necessary in order to secure the safety of the town,"'

The following were chosen a committee of vigilance :
William H. Allen, James Arnold, Ivory H. Bartlett, Joseph Brovi'nell, Paul Barney,
Joshua Barker. Thomas B. Bush, John Coggeshall, E. N. Chaddock, Oliver Crocker,
T, G, Coffin, Peleg Clarke, Ichabod Clapp, Zacheus Cushman, Thomas Cook, James B,
Congdon, Latham Cross, Charles Grinnell, Edmund Gardner, Benj. Gage, Cornelius
Grinnell, jr,, Moses Gibbs, Hallett Gifford, William Gordon, jr., Ephraim Kempton,
Manasseh Kempton, Robt, Luscomb, E. S. Kempton, Warren Maxfield, Stephen Merri-
hew, Chas. AV, Morgan, Howard Nichols, Thos, Pope, J, A, Parker, Nat, Perry, C. M,
Pierce, David Pierce, Joseph Ricketson. Thomas Riddle, Jireh Perry, Anthony B, Rich-
mond, Mark B. Palmer, George Randall, Samuel Rodman, W, T. Russell, William Reed,
Wing Russell, Billings Corey. Robt. HiUman, Zach. Hillman, Isaac Hathaway, Nathan-
iel Hathaway, Jas. H. Hovvland '2d, Eli Haskell, Cornelius S. Howland, George How-
land, Ichabod Handy, T. I. Dyer, Elisha Dunbar, D. Davenport. Paul Ewer, Alfred
Gibbs, Allerton Delano, Abraham Giftord, Alfred Woddell, Robert S. Smith, Pardon
Tillinghast, James D. Thompson, Charles H. Warren, George Tyson, Phineas Burgess,
Gamaliel Taber, Richard Williams, John P. West, Lemuel Williams, Jonathan R. Ward,
Leonard Macomber, Bezaleel Wa-;hburn, Comfort Whiting, Bethuel Penniman, John
Woddell, Dennis Wood, David R. Greene, Seth Russell, Marshall Waldron, James
Wheaton, James Moores, Martin Pierce, Allen Potter, William P. Grinnell, Frederick
Reed, Andrew Robeson, William PliiUip^, Frederick Parker. Richard Luscomb, Gideon
T. Sawyer, Warren Mosher, VVilhmn W. Swain, Wiliiam R. We>t, .\lex, H. Campbell,
Benjamin Rodm.in, 110 men.

" Voted, That it shall be considered by said committee as a special part of their duty
to detect anv individuals who have been connected, direotlv or indirectlv, with the late

2 54 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

outrages, and if such disgraceful scenes shall be repeated, that the committee shall leave
no means untried to enforce upon the criminals the penalty of the law.
" A reward of §500 was offered for conviction.

"KiLLEY Eldredge, Town Clerk.''

This vigilance committee, organized for the specific object of protect-
ing the town from mob violence, was the parent organization of our
present efficient Protecting Society, which has had an uninterrupted
career of sixty-three years, and is the oldest part of the Fire Depart-
ment.

The prevailing sentiment in New Bedford regarding military affairs
was such as to discourage the maintenance of military companies, and
only so far as the law compelled their existence were they tolerated.
Nevertheless, the light infantry and artillery companies were fre-
quently called upon on public occasions; and national holidays de-
pended upon these organizations for public parades. It was the annual
musters of the State militia that kept them in existence, and much that
is interesting may be recorded of their experiences on the tented field.
Rosters of either of the local companies at this period are not to be
found ; but our venerable townsmen, Gideon T. Sawyer, has given the
following list of persons who were members of the Light Infantry Com-
pany :

Lysander Washburn, William H. Topham, Johnf Chapman, Isaac Hathaway, James
Durfee, James Drew, James B. Coggeshall, Henry P. Willis, Joseph Webb, Pardon
Potter, Luther G. Hewins, Uriah Allen, Paul Ewer, Merrit Bates.

In 1823 the annual muster was held at Assonet. In 1S24 the com-
panies attended muster at Smith Mills. Capt. Lysander Washburn was
elected lieutenant-colonel of the regiment.

In 1825 the Fourth of July celebration was distinguished by its mil-
itary character. " The Light Infantry Company, under the command
of Zachariah Hillman, and the Artillery Company, Lieut. Comfort
Whiting, had an imposing parade, and passed through a variety of evo-
lutions and manoeuvres creditable to the soldiers and gratifying to the
spectators." The festivities closed in the evening with a grand ball,
and the band that had rendered service during the day serenaded the
citizens until early dawn. It was about this time that the first boys'
military company of Bedford village was formed. Rodolphus N. Swift,
now of Acushnet, was captain, and among its members who shouldered

777^ ARTILLERY AT NANTUCKET. 255

the musket or pike were James H. Rowland, Alexander Allen, Gideon
Randall, John Stall, Rufus Rowland and Fred. Stall. Master George
Randall tuned the fife as they marched with flying colors through the
town.

In October, 1826, the New Bedford Washington Artillery, Capt. John
Harrisson, made an excursion to Nantucket. The event was one of
great enjoyment to the soldiers, who evidently had a most delightful
trip, judging from the account. A most important fact regarding the
aftair was, that this company was the first uniformed military organiza-
tion that ever marched through the streets of Nantucket. The follow-
ing courteous note was addressed to Captain Harrisson previous to his

departure from the island :

" Nantucket Oct. 5tb, 1S26.
■ ' Capt. J. Harrisson :

" The committee of arrangements on liehalt of tlie citizens of Nantucket can not on
this occasion permit you to depart without ofTering some testimonial of their great grat-
ification at this voluntary visit of the New Bedford Washington Artillery, the first reg-
ularly uniformed military corps ever seen in this place, now containing a population of
nearly 8,000. The committee can not but regret that untoward circumstances have con-
tributed to prevent a reception more adequate to this occasion. But the very soldier-
like appearance of your company, the superior skill of your band, and the gentlemanly
deportment of your officers, all evincing a high state of discipline, and reflecting honor
on yourself and them, have laid the people of this place under obligations never to be
forgotten.

" May you return in safety to your homes and families, and may this tour prove a
source of pleasure to all parties engaged in it. We have the honor to subscribe our-
selves, dear sir, your obedient servants, on behalf of the citizens,

■' S. H. Jenks,
Robert W. Jenks,
George W. Ewer, ,
A. Mellen,
Robert F. Parker,
Henry M. Pinkham,
Committee of Arrangements.''

To the above letter Captain Harrisson made the following reply :
'•in acknowledging the receipt of the polite note witli which I have been honored,
permit me in behalf of the New Bedford Washington Artillery to express the lively
sense that is entertained of the ho>pitable urbanity which on the part of the committee
of arrangements and the citizens of Nantucket generally conduced to render the recent
visit of the military company to your island peculiarly pleasant and gratifying. In
communicating to you their grateful acknowledgments, I can not forbear to remark that

256 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

the obliging terms in wliioh the committee have thought proper to refer to the occasion
which inspires them, adds additional weight to an already awakened sentiment of obli-
gation ; and I beg to be permitted at the same time to tender you the assurance of my
personal consideration and respect.

"John Harrisson.
"To the Committee of Arrangements."

The military companies played an important part in the Fourth of
July celebration in 1827. The Light Infantry Company, Capt. Zacha-
riah Hillman, and the Washington Artillery Company, Capt. David
Sylvester, escorted the procession, which is spoken of as making a
splendid appearance. The oration was delivered by J. H. VV. Paige,
esq On September 7, 1827, the artillery company " left town " on an
excursion to Clark's Cove, and spent the day in target shooting and
camp duty. The reader may judge from the above item what a wilder-
ness the south part of the town was at this time. The military events
of this period are closely associated witlx the names of several citizens
well known to the present generation. Among the living representa-
tives is our venerable townsman, James D. Thompson, who still walks
our streets with vigorous step, although eighty- five years of age. Gen-
eral Thompson came to New Bedford in 1827 at the age of nineteen,
and at once became interested in the military affairs of the town. He
rose rapidly to a high rank, and when but twenty-seven years of age
was elected major-general of the Fifth Division of Massachusetts militia.

July 4, 1828, the Light Infantry Company, Capt. Luther T. Wilson,
marched to Fairhaven and performed escort duty for the procession, and
their services were spoken of as giving brilliancy and effect to the
occasion.

The muster this year was held at Berkley, and on their way the in-
fantry company encamped a day or two in Fall River, pitching their
tents on the hill in the south part of the town. On Sunday morning
they accepted an invitation to attend services in the Baptist Church,
appearing, by request of the pastor, without music or arms. At noon
Rev. Mr. Taylor, afterward the famous Father Taylor of Boston, well
known as the " sailor preacher," visited the camp and invited the com-
pany to an afternoon service in the Methodist Church. " How shall we
come ? " inquired Lieutenant Thompson, who happened to receive the
invitation. " Come ? " said the clergyman, " why, come like soldiers

AXOTHER EXCURSION TO XANTUCKET. 257

with music playing, and don't forget your muskets." And so they
marched in true mihtaryform to the church and listened to a character-
istic sermon from the text : " Wherefore take unto you the whole armor
of God."

Nantucket seemed to have wonderful attractions for the soldiers in
those days of peace. In July, 1829, the Light Infantry, under the com-
mand of Capt. James D. Thompson, made an excursion to that place.
The following men participated :

Captain, James D. Thompson ; lieutenant. Phineas Burgess; ensign, James B. Cogge-
shall; privates, Isaac Kempton, Pardon Potter, Rowland Rogers, Thomas Avery. Jona.
Hart, Edmund V. French, Horatio Bly, Davis Sherman, Robert H. Giflbrd, Benjamin S.
Burgess, William G. White, William E. Brown, Adonijah Chase, Merrit Bates, Silas
Richards, Charles Tanner, Benjamin Chase, Charles F. Wilcox, David Weaver, Leonard
Ellis, Abner W. Brownell, James A. Wilbor, James R. Lawrence, John Sanford.

The above names are copied from the original morning report, made
by James B. Coggeshall, officer t)f the day, to James D. Thompson,
commanding the New Bedford Light Infantry Company, on camp duty
at Nantucket, Saturday morning, July 4, 1829. It was countersigned
" All quiet." The company attended by the Middleborough Band, left
the harbor at 7 o'clock in the morning in the staunch (if not fast) steamer
Hamilton, arriving in Nantucket at 4 P. M., " where," says Captain
Thompson, "we received a hearty welcome. As we entered the harbor,
the vessels at the wharves and the shore were crowded with people, and
it seemed as if the whole town had turned out to greet us. As we
passed up the wharf our band played vigorously, and a right royal wel-
come was extended to us from the crowds that lined the streets. Our
tents were erected on the hill, and our encampment was, for a da}', an
objective point of interest. A furious gale on the second night of our
visit blew our tents flat to the ground, and there was fun in the camp
till daylight broke. Early in the morning a committee of citizens oft'ered
the use of Lyceum Hall for our headquarters, which we gratefully ac-
cepted. Our company received marked attention during our stay, and
had the honor of leading the procession. The company were on their
best behavior, for they not only formally accepted an invitation but
actually attended church on Sunday morning. A rule of the company
forbade the use of intoxicating liquors on all public occasions, and
though the unbounded hospitality of the Nantucket people put them to

2s8 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

a severe test, its members strictly adhered to this provision. In response
to an invitation of Aaron Mitchell, the infantry company visited his
residence, and after performing a series of military evolutions in front of
the house for the edification of their host and his friends, they partook
of a sumptuous banquet that was spread in the dining hall. Mr.
Mitchell had provided a number of well-filled decanters, but they were
cheerfully removed when the above fact was made known to him. A
refreshing supply of lemonade of a strictly temperance character was
furnished the company by Samuel Tuck at his store." Captain Thomp-
son speaks of this visit to Nantucket as one of the most enjoyable in his
military career, and though sixty years have passed since the event, its
memories are pleasant and gratifying. The infantry company left the
island early in the morning and arrived in New Bedford at 9 o'clock in
the evening.

The Fourth of July celebration in 1833 was an event in the history of
the town. The day was ushered in with ringing of bells and salutes by
the Washington Artillery, Captain Taber. At 10 o'clock there was a
grand procession escorted by the Light Infantry Company, Capt. Phine-
has Burgess, and the artillery company. The procession consisted of
the town officers, Mechanics' Association, officers and soldiers of the
Revolution, the Franklin Blues (a boys' military company of Fairha-
ven), societies, and citizens, under the marshalship of Col. James D.
Thompson. An oration was delivered by Rev. W. Mudge, an original
poem was read by Thomas P. Rodman, and the Declaration of Independ-
ence was read by Jeremiah R. Harris. At 2 o'clock there was a grand
parade of Sunday-school children, and an address was delivered be-
fore them in the North Church by Thomas D. Eliot. The town was
gaily decorated with flags, as were also the vessels in the harbor. The
Mercury of July 12, 1833, in its description of the festivities of the
Fourth, says of the Franklin Blues of Fairhaven : "We should not omit
to mention that some of the youth and chivalry of Fairhaven, in the
shape of a very neat and orderly military company of boys, paraded in
our streets, and were noticed, as we can assure them, with much com-
mendation by the elder, and much envy by the younger part of our citi-
zens." The Franklin Blues numbered about thirty members. They
wore blue jackets, white trousers, belts, and white caps, with black cord

JUVENILE SOLDIERS. 259

running from back to front and from side to side. The lads were armed
with spears with a six-inch gilded blade. The following was the list of
its officers: Captain, Ezekel R. Sawin ; lieutenant, George Shaw; en-
sign and clerk, Tucker Damon ; drummer, Asa F. Taber ; fifer, James
Wilson. Among the privates were Andrew Swift, Ansel Tripp, Moses
H. Delano and George Stevens.

The appearance of this company of " Corsican " soldiers in our streets
fired the jealousy of the Bedford boys, and originated the Jackson
Blues, the most celebrated of all boys' military companies in the history
of our town. I am indebted to Elisha C. Leonard, who was orderly ser-
geant, for the facts regarding this organization. But few days elapsed
after the above event before generous contributions of money were
secured, a uniform decided upon, and the spears were being made by
Mr. Coleman, the carver, at his shop on First street. Cyrus W. Chap-
man, then on North Water street^ was engaged to furnish the jackets,

caps, and belts. The company was organized at once, with captain, ,

lieutenant, Elisha C. Leonard, ensign, Tillinghast Bailey, jr. The sail-
loft in the old meeting-house on Elm street, east of North Second, was
secured, and under the instruction of Gen. James D. Thompson, the reg-
ular military drill commenced. The young men soon acquired a knowl-
edge of tactics and became exact and expert. Their movements were
marked with the time and precision of veterans. Before the uniforms
were completed. Master Cyrus Washburn, a son of Col. Lysander Wash-
burn, came to the town to reside. He was received with great enthu-
siasm by the boys who were very desirous that he should command the
Blues. A change was accordingly made, the captain first chosen (whose
name seems to have escaped every one now living who belonged to
the company) was made lieutenant, and E. C. Leonard went in as or-
derly sergeant. Mr. Bailey, who is described as being a handsome red-
cheeked boy, carried the colors. A very elegant white silk standard
was subscribed for by the merchants and painted by Joseph R. Rumrill,
who lived in the Daniel Waterman house on Middle street.

It was a great day when the Jackson Blues made their first parai^^le.
They met under the old oak tree in front of James Arnold's mansion
on County street, promptly at i o'clock on Saturday. Their uniforms
consisted of a blue jacket, with gold lace around the collar, and gilt bell

26o HISTOR y OF NE W BEDFORD.

buttons ; white trousers ; a real morocco belt, with a spread eagle
upon the breast-plate; a green velvet cap that stood up some four
inches and turned over, coming to a point over the left ear and termi-
nating with a handsome gold tassel. A spear with black shaft and gilt
head was carried by each of the lads ; and their beautiful banner of
snow white silk, edged with gold cord and tassels, gracefully floated
from the banner pole that was crowned with a golden battle- ax.

They showed a becoming pride as they marched down Union street
to the inspiring music of Dunham's fife and Chadwick's big drum. As
most of the merchants and traders had contributed for their equipments,
the)' were personally interested in the display, and a general satisfaction
was expressed at their martial appearance. The Blues were frequently
entertained during their parades, and many invitations were received
by the company to visit various residences, where they rested from their
marches and partook of the delicacies provided. The muster that fall
was held upon the old windmill lot in Fairhaven. The line was formed
on County street, in front of Mr. Arnold's residence, headed by the
Norton Artillery. Immediately in the rear came the Jackson Blues, by
courtesy of the regiment. After the regular inspection of the regiment
on the muster field, the Jackson Blues were ordered out in front of the
line and were put through various infantry evolutions. This was fol-
lowed by a similar exhibition by the Franklin Blues of Fairhaven. The
military season thus closed in a blaze of glory. In the spring of 1834
most of the members of the Jackson Blues met for the election of offi-
cers and to make preparations for the coming season. But alas for their
enthusiasm and anticipated fun ! A most serious difficulty presented
itself. Not that their military ardor had been lessened, or their organi-
zation weakened by internal dissensions; indeed the circumstances were
favorable for a successful season. It was the unexpected that happened.
The boys couldn't button their jackets, or clasp their belts, and their
trousers were altogether too short. And so it came to pass that the
Jackson Blues died from natural development. This famous organiza-
tion only lives in the memories of the old gray- headed members, who
hobble along our streets, and, when they pass the old general with his
still martial step, remember when he put them through the military ex-
ercises in the old sail-loft. No roster of the Jackson Blues can be found,

'trs^^^T^^^^ ^^^^^-^^^

NOTABLE EVENTS— THE SECOND GREAT FIRE. 261

but Orderly Sergeant Leonard furnishes a list of names of some who
belonged to the organization :

Captain, Cyrus Washburn: lieutenant, ; ensign, Tillinghast Bailey, jr.; or-
derly sergeant, Elisha C. Leonard; privates, Charles P. Seabury. James H. Richmond,
Frank Dillingham, James Haffords, Charles Heath, James D. Parker, Thomas Allen,
Charles Tarr, Peregrine White, William Luce, Davenport, Benjamin Hill, Charles H.
Sylvester, Seth McFarlie, Lorenzo Dillingham, Roderick Harrison, Elisha D. Howland,
Jacob S. Parker, Thomas Peaks, James Bates, William H. Doane, John Wood, Seth
Sampson, John Nash.

Mr. Leonard says it is possible there are errors in this list, for it is
now sixty years since the last parade. James R. Denham has in his pos-
session one of the original spears carried by the Jackson Blues, and also
exhibits the sword of Capt. John Harrison when he commanded the
Washington Artillery.

Ensign Charles Eldredge gives the following list of boys who com-
posed a juvenile military company in Fairhaven about 1820:

Captain, Edward Marchant; lieutenant, Isaiah F. Terry; ensign, Charles Eldredge;
drummer, Samuel H. Eldredge ; tifer, Joseph Stetson ; privates, John Terry, Alexander
Swift, John Church, Elery T. Taber, Daniel Talier, Nathaniel Stott, William Stetson,
Joseph B. Merrihevv, Joseph Taber, Josiah Taber, Henry Dabney, Ansel Gibbs, Bar-
nard Damon, Nathan Delano, Gideon Alden.

January 6, 1826, the New Bedford Mercury was enlarged to a six-
column sheet. It was published by B. Lindsey & Co., the firm consist-
ing of B. Lindsey, B. T. Congdon, and B. Lindsey, jr.

June 12, 1827, the first number of the New Bedford (7i9<'/;7>r appeared,
published by Benjamin T. Congdon. A circus was advertised Novem-
ber 14, 1828, to appear every evening except Sundays, on County
street, opposite the academy, with the best equestrian company in
America. The circus house, or amphitheater, as it was sometimes
called, was located on the northwest corner of County and Elm streets,
just north of the County street M. E. Church.

The Lyceum Society was organized December 8, 1828. Tiie officers
elected were: Stephen Merrihew, president; Abner Bourne, Benjamin
Rodman, vice-presidents; curators, Charles W. Morgan, Thomas A.
Greene, Joseph Congdon; committee of arrangements, Orville Dewey,
J. H. W. Page; corresponding secretary, Francis Rotch; recording sec-
retary, William T. Hawes; treasurer, W. C. Taber.

262 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

The Mansion House, formerly the residence of Wilh'am Rotch, cor-
ner of Union and North Second streets, was opened as a hotel by J.
Webster, December 19, 1828.

On July 25, 1830, occurred what may properly be termed the second
great fire. I present the account as vividly portrayed in the Neiv Bed-
ford Mercury :

" On Sunday morning last the inhabitants of this town were alarmed
by the cry of fire, which proved to be the dwelling-house of William
H. Allen (now southeast corner of School and Seventh streets) and ow-
ing to the combustible material, after a long spell of dry weather, and
the citizens being collected in the several churches at distant points,
before efifective aid could be obtained the whole building was enveloped
in flames. The dwelling-house of Gideon Allen adjoining was almost
immediately on fire and entirely consumed. As the wind was strong
from the west and the position elevated, cinders were wafted from the
burning mass in great quantities, threatening destruction to all within
their range. Tlie large carpenter's shop of Dudley Davenport, as also
a boat-builder's shop belonging to Jethro Coffin, both considerably re-
moved from where the fire originated, the latter three-quarters of a mile
at least, were set on fire by these floating flakes of fire and consumed
to the earth with the rapidity of magic.

" For a time the aspect of afifairs was truly appalling. Several build-
ings narrowly escaped, which in their destruction would necessarily
have involved a widely-spread conflagration. But through the untiring
and judicious efforts of the fire department and the citizens generally,
the further progress of the devouring element was happily arrested.
The loss of property is very considerable, and it has fallen upon citizens
eminently distinguished for worth and enterprise. Besides the above
enumerated, a barn belonging to Tilson B. Denham, and a quantity of
oil owned by Abraham Barker, esq., in the cellar of Mr. Davenport's
shop, were consumed, the latter insured. Mr. Davenport's loss is esti-
mated at not less than $10,000, being perhaps one-half of the whole
amount sustained.

"The efficacy of the newly organized Protecting Society was very
strikingly shown on this occasion. Much property was rescued from
destruction, and much preserved from injury through the well-directed

ANOTHER FIRE — NECROLOGY. 263

exertions of this association. It was an occasion which loudly called
for the best efforts of every one ; and to the backward in exertion, if
such there were, the conduct of the softer sex (ladies were actually seen
passing water and furnishing refreshments to the exhausted firemen)
must have proved an effectual monition.

" There is no doubt that this fire was occasioned by a lad's inadver-
tently dropping coals from a shovel. This should be a caution to
every one to provide themselves with a covered shovel made for the
purpose of carrying fire, which may be had at a small expense, and is
perfectly secure.

" We have heard the interminable ringing of bells in cases of fire
justly complained of. After the alarm is effectually given, surely no
possible advantage can result from keeping up a ringing for hours, and
it may be seriously injurious to the sick as well as annoying to the near
dwellers."

This criticism recalls a story of a gentleman visiting this town, who,
hearing the fierce ringing of the bells, rushed into the street, and see-
ing the people running in one direction (for it was the prevailing cus-
tom to depend on the clanging bells, rather than on the boisterous cry
of fire), was led to inquire of a passer-by what was the matter. "A
fire," was the response. " A fire ? A fire ? My dear sir, do they have
private fires in this town ? " The fact that he heard no voices crying
fire led the stranger to ask this question.

In 1833 Perry Russell's prussian-blue works, then located on the
northwest corner of William and Sixth, street took fire in the night and
burned to the ground. The house recently torn down by the Y. M. C. A.
was in great danger and would have been consumed but for the vigor-
ous efforts of the firemen. One of these, Capt. Humphrey W. Seabury,
helped drag an engine into the yard, and finding the well had given out,
took the contents of one of the vats to supply the engine. The owner
of the house had the satisfaction next morning of seeing his house saved
from the flames, and of finding it painted a new color, a beautiful blue.

Among the deaths occurring in the town at this period were: 1826,
March 18, Abraham Smith, for twenty years postmaster of the town,
aged seventy-seven ; 1826, September 29, Capt. John Howland, aged
eighty-five ; 1826, October 5, William B. Rotch. son of Benjamin Rotch

264 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

of England, aged twenty-three; 1826, December 21, Deborah, widow
of Capt. Philip Rowland, aged seventy-two; 1827, January 30, Eliza-
beth, wife of William Rotch, a worthy member of the Society of Friends;
1827, July 18, William West, aged seventy-four; 1827, July 28, Syl-
vester Greene, aged ninety; 1828, May 16, William Rotch, aged ninety-
four; 1829, March 3, Capt. William Meader, aged seventy- eight ; 1829,
June 16, Joseph Bourne, for many years chairman of the Board of
Selectmen, aged forty-one; 1829, August 22, Gilbert Russell, aged
sixty-nine.

As late as 1S24, cows were allowed to run at large, except at night.

The community was again alarmed with regard to the small -pox in
1824. A committee consisting of the selectmen, William Whitridge,
Gideon Randall, Paul Spooner, and Alexander Reed was authorized to
raise money for the purpose of preventing the spread of the disease.

At a town meeting held December 20, 1824, the selectmen were au-
thorized to employ " four good and sufficient persons to keep a night
watch for four months from the present time, and two men during the
remainder of the season."

A town clock was purchased in May, 1825.

At a special meeting. May 23, 1826, the town voted to petition the
legislature that a " public gaol " for the county of Bristol be erected
within the limits of New Bedford.

The high school was discontinued in 1S29, under an act of the legis-
lature.

The number of watchmen was increased in 1829. This, without
doubt, was deemed necessary on account of the Ark riot.

Among the business men of New Bedford in 1S30 were the following:

William C. Maxfield, tailor ; John Bailey, britannia ware ; Mr. Negus,
lessons in penmanship ; Brightman & Barstow, spars, planks, ship tim-
bers, etc.; Wing Russell, fresh northern honey in pots, worm lozenges
and medicine ; E. W. Greene & Co., dye stuffs, logwood, vitrol, etc.; Oli-
ver Swain, boots and shoes ; Macomber & Sullings, dry goods ; S. &
C. S. Tobey, dry goods ; Philip Anthony, dry goods ; William Swain,
portrait painter; Jacob Parker, chains, anchors, gunpowder; William
Eddy, groceries and general goods; Francis Taber, jr. & Co., hardware,
stoves; Ivory H. Bartlett, southern corn, salt; Coggeshall, Richmond &

ACCEPTATION OF HIGHWAYS.

265

Vose, dry goods and notions; F. S. Alden, flannels, woolens, and yarns;
Oliver Crocker, general merchandise; John P. West, lime and bricks;
Frederick Bryant, hardware and looking glasses; Elisha Thornton, fresh
figs from Turkey; Watson Ellis, cabinetmaker; Paul Ewer, boots and
shoes; Isaac Howland, jr. & Co., patent cordage, hawsers and rigging;
Benjamin Hill, groceries, West India goods; Dyre & Richmond, copper-
smiths; Edward Stetson, quadrants, compasses; A. Gerrish, jr., agent
Delaware and Hudson Coal Company.

At the annual town meeting in 1830, the boundaries of streets and
roads were fixed, and monuments placed in proper positions. Each
monument was a block of granite, with the top squared. The upper
end was placed nearly even with the surface of the ground, and a cross-
cut, or a drill hole, marked the precise line of intersection.

The following table gives the dates, previous to 1830, when many of
the streets were accepted as public highways :

Union Street April 20, 1769.

Spring street, first part March 22, 1 800.

second " May 8, 1824.

School street, first part March 22, 1800.

second " May 14, 1807.

third " May 10, 1809.

Walnut street March 14, 1796.

Bush street May 14, 1807.

Water street, first part March 8, 1709.

second " ... .March 13, 1788.

First street March 10, 1796.

Second street, first part. . .March 22, 1800.

second '" . April 22, 1823.

Third street, first part March 14, 1796.

second " May 8, 1797.

third " May 14, 1807.

fourth " ...March 20, 1804.
Fourth street, first part . March 22, 1800.

second " .. ..May 14, 1807.

third " April 13, 1829.

Fifth street, first part March 22, 1800.

second " April 6, 1829.

Sixth street, first part. . . .March 22, 1800.

second " May 9,1806.

third " May 2, 1818.

fourth " March 29, 1821.

Seventh street May 14, 1807.

Russell street March 21, 1821.

[At an earlier period this

was called Halifax street.]

Wing street March 29, 1821.

South street March 20, 1808.

NorthSecondst., Cist part. .May 13, 1784.

second " May 3, 1794.

third '• May 4, 1795.

fourth " March 22, 1796.

Purchase St., first part May 4, 1795.

second " Aug. 24, 1802.

Ray street May 14, ) 798.

William street May 4, 1795.

Elm street, first part April 6, 1800.

isecond " April 5, 1819.

third " May 13, 1808.

fourth " March28, 1831.

Middle street, first part May 13, 1788.

second " Jan. 30, 1796.

third " ... .May— ,1798.

fourth " Aprils, 1813.

Middle street, first part May 13, 1788.

.second " Jan. 30. 1796.

third " May-, 1798.

fourth " . . .Aprils, 1813.

High street May 8, 1800.

Charles street May 15, 1807.

Mill street March 30, 1806.

Pleasant street March 30, 1806.

North street Sept. 8, 1 787.

Hillman street April 26. 1808.

Maxfield St., first part. . . . March 22, 1796.

second " .. ..April 26, 1808.
Willis street, first part. . . .Aug. 24, 1802.

second " , . ..May 14, 1812.

HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

CHAPTER XVI.

1830 to 1840.

Events of Interest — The Cholera — Financial Distress — Disastrous Fire — Mili-
tary Matters — Disorganization of the Militia — Divers Events — The First Directory
— The Pacific Insurance Company — Notable Deaths.

VIGOROUS action was taken by the town in 1830 to restrict the
sale of liquor At the town meeting in April resolutions were
passed recommending the selectmen to limit the number of retail dealers
to five, and " that they be qualified by their character for integrity,
discretion, and firmness, faithfully to fulfill the important obligations
which the law enjoins."

The school appropriation for 1830 was $4,225, and was distributed
through the six districts into which the town was divided, with a special
sum of $300 for a school for colored children.

A stage route between New Bedford and Padanaram village was
established June i, 1830.

The New England Caravan gave an exhibition in New Bedford Oc-
tober 28, 29, 1830. Ninepence was charged for admission. The
Siamese twins were first .exhibited in New Bedford at the Mansion
House, October 24, 1831. They remained in town for a week on ac-
count of the detention of the boat for Nantucket.

The Mechanics' Insurance Company was chartered June 9, 1831,
with a capital of $100,000, for marine risks only. A subscription was
opened October 28, 183 i, to procure funds for erecting an observatory
on Prospect Hill, to be attached to the Mariners' Church, then building.
This observatory was built on the tower of the church and was seventy
feet in height from the level of the street.

Ill 183 I the streets were lighted with " lanthorns," and $1,250 were
appropriated for their provision and maintenance. In 1832 special at-
tention was given to the improvement of the streets and highways.
The first flagged sidewalks were laid this year, and several reservoirs
were built.

FINANCIAL EMBARRASSMENT. 267

Penny-post delivery for letters was first inaugurated in New Bedford,
February 2, 1832, when Richard Williams was postmaster. Two cents
were charged for local mail.

In 1832 the Asiatic cholera, that had devastated many cities in the
old world, made its appearance on this continent. It created great con-
sternation throughout the land, and every precaution was taken to pre-
vent the spread of the pestilence. At a special town meeting held June
23, 1832, action was taken by the appointment of a vigilance committee.
It was given extraordinary powers ; and the town treasurer was author-
ized to borrow such moneys as were necessary to carry into effect such
sanitary measures as the committee should adopt. Samuel Rodman, jr.,
was the chairman of this committee, which was composed of thirty of
the most prominent citizens. The dreaded scourge did not gain a foot-
hold in New Bedford, but was very fatal in the West and South.

The Courier oi August 17, 1832, says the Christian church (the North
Christian) was raised in three days by twenty men under the direction
of the Messrs. Davenport. It was probably the largest place of public
worship in the county — 90 feet in length, "JoYz feet in breadth, and 145
feet to the top of the spire. No ardent spirits were used during its
erection.

June 4, 1833, the town passed a vote, inviting President Jackson,
who was making a tour through several Northern cities, to visit New
Bedford. The committee of citizens, Rowland R. Crocker, Robert S.
Smith, Lemuel Williams, John H. Clifford, Charles W. Morgan, Joseph
Grinnell, and William T. Russell, received the following reply to the
invitation :

'■New York, June VA, 18a:j.

" Gentlemen : I have received your communication inviting me in behalf of the citizens
of New Bedford to take that place in my tour to the North. It would give me pleasure
to exchange friendly greetings in that quarter, but finding that it i.>! some distance from
the route which I propose to travel, I must beg leave to decline the invitation and rely
upon your kindness in making acceptable to my friends at New Bedford this assurance
of my respect and gratitude to them. Your obedient servant.

" .\ndrew J,\ckson."

The years 1833-34 were seasons of great distress and financial em-
barrassment in New Bedford, as elsewhere. A public meeting was held
January 16, 1834, to take into consideration the deranged state of the

268 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

money market. James Arnold presided, with John Perkins and Joseph
Ricketson, secretaries. The meeting was largely attended, and many
citizens were unable to gain entrance to the hall. A committee con-
sisting of James Howland 2d, Alfred Gibbs, Charles W. Morgan, James
B. Congdon, John H. Clifford, and William VV. Swain, was appointed
to prepare resolutions, which were adopted by the meeting. Their case
was presented to the House of Representatives in Washington, Febru-
ary 5. Hon. John Reed, who presented it, said that New Bedford
had been highly distinguished for its enterprise, and that its prosperity
had been almost unexampled in the country. But three cities in the
country had more vessels than New Bedford, and in none had they
been more successfully or usefully employed. He stated " that while
in the full tide of success, suddenly and unexpectedly they have been
plunged into almost overuhelmed distress; that trade and confidence
are in a great measure destroyed and business stopped ; that they can-
not fulfill their engagements, because they cannot sell their property for
cash, or obtain any loan of money ; many worthy and hitherto prosper-
ous men have been ruined, and the future presents prospects awfully
alarming and distressing. They believe the present calamity and dis-
tress are mainly owing to removing the deposits and the measures re-
sulting from the removal. They earnestly intreat Congress to restore
the deposits, because they see no other mode of obtaining relief; but,
at all events, to unite in affording speedy and effectual relief in such
manner as their wisdom may direct."

On February 22, 1834, a memorial adopted at a meeting of the citi-
zens was forwarded to Mr. Reed. It was signed by 832 citizens of New
Bedford, 219 of Dartmouth, 417 of Fairhaven, 287 of Wareham, 175 of
Rochester, and 136 of Westport, in all 2,058. Only twenty individuals
in New Bedford declined to sign the document. This memorial was
addressed to the Senate and House of Representatives of the United
States of America It set forth the deep distress and calamity befalling
the people of New Bedford and vicinity and pra) ed for speedy relief.
It urged the establishment of a national bank, claiming that such an in-
stitution would again restore credit, security, and prosperity to the
whole countrj'.

270 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

On Tuesday, November 1 8, 1834, there occurred a destructive fire,
an account of which I take from the Merairy :

" Yestenlay morning at an early hour fire broke out in the building on Water street
partly owned and occupied on the lower floor by James Wady as a bnot and shoe store.
The fire had previously made such progress that the building was almost immediately
enveloped in flames, and notwithstanding that our firemen and citizens repaired to the
shop with accustomed alacrity, their efforts to subdue it proved unavailing until after
several buildings in the vicinity were entirely consumed. A violent gale from the east
prevailed at the time, and such was the power to accelerate and extend the flames that
the scene presented at one time was truly appalling. Fortunately a rain during the night
assisted to prevent the destruction which would otherwise have inevitably ensued.

" The following is an enumeration of the buildings destroyed : On Water street (west
side) a valuable dwelling-house, owned and occupied by Captain William Blackmer ;
a two-story building adjoining, on the south, also owned by Captain Blackmer, and oc-
cupied as a milliner's shop on the lower floor, and by a family in the chambers ; a three-
story building, also adjoining on the north, owned by Captain Isaac Vincent, and occu-
pied as a dwelling by several familie.s, and in the basement as a victualing establish-
ment by James Carver; on the east side, a shop of James Wady, with a stock in trade
valued at about $7,000 and heavy outstanding accounts; a building owned by J. & J.
Howland, and occupied as a bakery by Messrs. Sayre & Denham ; a building owned
by John Easton, and occupied by him as a store-house for casks, etc.; a building owned
by Mr. Thomas Howland, and improved as a dwelling-house; on First street (in the
rear of Mr. Vincent's building) dwelling-house owned and occupied by Captain Ephraim
Hathaway; two small tenements owned by Mr. Richard Johnson, and occupied by
families; and also another building occupied as a dwelling-house.

■■ VVe have not been able to ascertain with correctness the amount of property de-
stroyed. It cannot, however, be estimated at less than $20,000. Insurance on part of the
property had been effected as follows: At the Bristol County Mutual Insurance Co.'s
oflBce, by Captain Blackmer on dwelling-house, $2,700; Jas. Wady. on building, f!l,IOO;
J. & J. Howland, on bake-house, |2,100; at the Manufacturers' office, Bosion, by James
Wady, on stock, $2,000 ; Isaac Vincent, on building, $2,000 ; W. Blackmer, on furniture,
$1,000; Thomas Howland, on building, $600. None of the property was fully insured
and the l ss by several of the sufferers will be felt with much seveiity. To such we
hope the benevolence of our citizens will be cheerfully extended."

Some difficulty was experienced in removing a piano from one of the
burning houses. The problem was solved by sawing off the legs in or-
der to more easily get the piano through the doorway and down the
staircase. It did not occur to these enthusiastic firemen that the legs
could be unscrewed.

At the regimental muster, held at Smith Mills in 1832 an episode oc-
curred that without doubt resulted in the final disbandment of the Light

DISSOLUTION OF THE LIGHT INFANTRY. iti

Infantry Company of New Bedford. The corps came on the field under
command of Lieut. John H. Chapman ; and, as the other companies of
the regiment were all commanded by captains, the Light Infantry Com-
pany by strict military rule was assigned the left of the line. They had
long occupied the post of honor, the right of the line, and were highly
indignant when they found themselves displaced. When the regiment
was drawn up in line and the places of each company definitely fixed,
the Light Infantry Company under the command of a non-commis-
sioned officer, Paul Ewer, marched ofi" the field and encamped in an ad-
joining meadow. Lieutenant Chapman retained his position in the line
and thus escaped court-martial, though he was undoubtedly in sympa-
thy with the action of his company. The incident created great excite-
ment, for it was unprecedented in the history of the regiment. Such a
violation of military law could not be overlooked ; each member was
fined $12, and an apology from the company was demanded from head-
quarters.

The Light Infantry Company held several meetings to consider the
situation, but refused to apologize, and were therefore disbanded. Their
last meeting^and parade was held December 17, 1833, at 12:30 P.M. Af-
ter a business meeting, the company formed in line and marched up
Union street, bearing a banner with the inscription, " United we stand,
divided we fall." When the band struck up the tune, " O dear! what
can the matter be?", the steps of the soldiers were animated to a re-
markable degree, and the parade assumed somewhat of a grotesque
character. So says one of the lads who stood on the sidewalk as the
procession passed by. The company marched into the dining hall of
the Eagle Hotel, where they partook of a sumptuous banquet. Thus
closed the career of the Light Infantry Company, an organization that
had its origin far back in the days of the American Revolution.

The New Bedford Mechanics' Rifle Company was the legitimate suc-
cessor of the Light Infantry Company, and was organized in 1834, with
the following officers: Captain, Jeremiah G. Harris, commissioned Janu-
ary 28, 1834; lieutenant, Benjamin F. Shattuck, commissioned Febru-
ary 28, 1834; ensign, Eliphalet Cushman, commissioned February 8,
1834; clerk, Charles O. Boutelle. The company consi.^ted of four ser-
geants, four corporals, and sixty-three privates. Among the latter

272 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

were : Caleb Maxfield, E. L. Foster, James Foster, C. B. Lucas, Dexter

Jenney, Horatio Bly, Stephen Curtis, Joslyn, Charles Tanner, and

William B. Doty. July i8, 1836, Captain Harris was elected major of
the battalion of light infantry and continued in that office till March i,
1838. Stephen Curtis succeeded him in command of the Rifle Com-
pany and was commissioned April 28, 1836. The other officers at this
time were : Lieutenant, Seth H. Ingalls, commissioned September 26,
1836; ensign, Thomas Bailey, commissioned September 26, 1836. The
company wore a rich uniform that consisted of a short frock coat and
trousers of gray cloth, trimmed with black cord, the uniforms of the
officers being decorated with gold cord. The imposing feature of the
uniform was the leather cap, crowned with a plume of silver-gray hair,

The first public parade took place on Friday, June 20. 1834. The
Rifle Company was accompanied by the Boston Brigade Band. After
marching through the streets they gave an exhibition of military move-
ments, " performing a few evolutions which, for precision and accuracy,
could hardly have been exceeded by practiced veterans." They then
proceeded to the residence of Ensign Timothy Ingraham, on North
Second street, where an elegant standard was presented them by Mrs.
Ingraham, in a graceful and becoming manner.

At the conclusion of these ceremonies, the Rifle Company returned
to their armory in Mechanics' Hall and partook of a collation, served by
Mr. Blake, of the Commercial Coffee House. Then over the bridge
they went and exhibited themselves to the admiring gaze of the Fair-
haven people, performing their military evolutions to the evident satis-
faction of the crowds that lined the streets of the village. On their
return they escorted Brigadier- General Thompson and staff and Lieut.-
Col. Henry H. Crapo and staff to Mechanics' Hall and there partook of
a banquet. The hall was elegantly decorated in honor of the occasion.
The festivities of the day were suddenly transformed into scenes of
mourning by the receipt of the news of the death of Lafayette. While
minute guns were being fired, the corps marched again through the
streets to the solemn strains of a dirge, bearing badges of crape, with
arms reversed, and with other demonstrations of sorrow.

The Mechanics' Rifle Company was highly honored during its brief
existence, being frequently called upon for escort duty on public occa-

THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY.

= 73

sions. In 1836 Edward L. White composed the New Bedford Me-
chanics' Riflemen's march and dedicated it to Major-General Thompson.
A copy of this music is in the Pubhc Library. The company was dis-
banded December 27, 1837.

The Washington Artillery, whose existence dates back to the Amer-
ican Revolution, was disbanded in 1836. It is impossible to give a
complete roster of the company. Through the kindly aid of our ven-
erable townsmen, Gideon T. Sawyer, the following list is presented of
persons who were members of the organization at different times :

James D. Proud, Stephen Daggett, Timothy Western, Gideon T. Sawyer, Joseph Chase,
Isaac Maxfield, Caleb Hathaway, WiUiam Little, Samuel Little, George P. Dmiliam,
Spooner Babcock, Lewis Thra,<!her, Philip Allen, Joseph Cromwell, Edward H. Wilkie,
Thomas West, Simmons, David E. Chase, William Phillips, Thomas Booth, Spen-
cer Pollard, James Davenport, Alden Braley, Reed Haskin.*, Ebenezer Parlow, Hartley
H. Sparrow, Darius Davis, Thonuis Jenney, James H. Collins, Charles Tobey, Eli.sha
Everett, Stackpole, Benjamm F. Lewis, Thomas Peckhaui.

Among the captains who served this company were George Dunham,
John Harrisson, David Sylvester and Stephen W. Taber.

John K. Gushing has given some boyhood reminiscences of the artillery
company. He says that the gun-house stood in the line of State street
and very near the big tree in the center of the Common. The " target-
shoots " were great occasions for the Bedford youth, who were sure to
be present. They were held on the lot on County street immediately
south of the Bullock residence, the target being placed near the Cove
shore. On returning to town the riddled target was elevated on the
gun carriage, and displayed to the admiring crowds as the company
passed through Purchase street on their way to the gun-house. At
the time the artillery company disbanded they had an elegant blue
uniform, consisting of a double-breasted swallow-tail coat with heavy
gilt buttons, and trousers decorated w ith heavy gold stripes. The head
covering was a black chapeau, surmounted with a plume of brilliant
red feathers.

Major-General Thompson has kindly given free access to his military
records, from which has been gleaned much valuable and interesting in-
formation. The following correspondence contains important facts rela-
tive to the closing career of the Washington Artillery. Major-General

274 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Thompson, in his report to Adjutant-General Dearbon, August 31,
1837, said :

"Having occasion a few days since to visit the gun-house [then situated where is
now the Common], I found the guns in a shocking condition, having been injuied very
much from the recent damp weather and from other causes. They have been without
a company for more than a year. Liberty was granted about ten months since to form
a company here, and at that time there was a prospect of raising one ; but it failed alto-
gether, and I now see no prospect whatever of a company being formed to take charge
of them. I have endeavored to raise a volunteer company" mostly for the purpose of
taking care of the guns (wishing to retain them with us), but that I find to be impos-
sible. The gun-house is situated some distance from the village, and is very much out
of repair, and I found on my recent visit that it had been broken open and the imiile-
ments were scattered all over the building and a part of the harness missing. I shall
therefore recommend the removal of the guns, etc., to Boston, as I am satisfied that
nothing can be done toward raising a company here."

In October, 1838, the guns were sent to Boston, the house sold, and
thus closed the career of the Washington Artillery.

Bedford village was now without a uniformed military company, and
the regular militia was in a deplorable condition. The annual musters
were but burlesques, and every man who could escape service did soon
the mpst trivial excuse. Indeed, the constant changes in the State laws
which enlarged the class of "exempts" formed the chief cause of the
demoralized condition throughout the State, and served to bring the
whole service into contempt.

In response to inquiries made in August, 1834, the following opinion
was expressed and a prediction made by General Thompson that found
its fulfillment within three years :

" As my opinion as to the future prospects of the volunteer companies in this brig-
ade is requested, I will only state that I consider the law of March 29, 1834. directly
calculated to destroy one of the most valuable of our republican institutions, viz.: the
organization of our mihtia. Under this law our volunteer companies can not long ex-
ist, and the cause I beheve must be apparent to all who investigate the subject.

" Very respectfully yours, James D. Thompson,

" Brig.-Gen. 2d Brigade, 5th Division.

"Adjt.-Gen. W. A. Sumner, Boston."

It was about this period (1837) that the militia system of the State
went to pieces. From its ruins arose the present organizations of vol-
unteer companies.

The training days and annual muster had become scenes of drunken-

Stx^

DECLINE OF THE MJLITIA. 275

ness, gambling and riot. Tiiere is a record of a muster in this vicinity
where there were eight or ten open groggeries on the field. So dis-
graceful were the scenes enacted that they called forth the sevei est con-
demnation from the newspapers of the day. At a muster held in
Fairhaven four or five members of a militia company came to the field
each with a codfish strapped to his back in place of the regulation knap-
sack. Their grotesque appearance made fun for the crowd, and for a
time the performers in their novel armor absorbed the attention of the
whole field. They continued to do so throughout the day, but under
a change of circumstances, Colonel Crape put them under arrest, sta-
tioned a guard over them, had them fed at noonday on crackers and
water, and kept them in confinement till the regiment was dismissed.

The most attractive company of that time was the Washington Ar-
tillery with its nearl)' new Continental uniform. Ensign Tuckerman
carried a rich blue flag with the arms of the State upon it. The music
of the fife, kettle and bass drums answered for ordinary occasions, but
on extra days a full band was employed. At the May training in 1836
a militia company paraded in front of the court house on County street.
At this time the whole militia system was in disrepute, and several of
the company dressed in caricature. One represented the then renowned
Jack Downing, and another the Indian chief, Black Hawk. Both were
tall men, and they marched side by side for greater effect. Another
soldier had a salt codfish strung over his back. It was a cold, bluster-
ing day and the captain, to keep up the dignity of his office, marched
and counter-marched his company up and down the principal streets,
much to their disgust, as the dust was blowing fiercely in their e\es.

About the year 1835 there was formed a juvenile military company,
consisting of twenty-five or thirtj' lads, many of whom lived on or
about Johnny Cake Hill. They drilled in one of the rooms of the
Dudley Davenport house, now standing on the southwest corner of
Walnut and South Water streets. The company wore the inherited
uniforms of the Jackson Blues, so far as boy soldiers could be found to
fit them. The life of this organization was very brief, else it might have
met the same fate as did the company whose members were once occu-
pants of these same uniforms. The company was officered as follows :
Captain, Charles C. Case; lieutenant, Thomas L. Allen ; drill sergeant.

276 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Dudley Davenport. Among the privates were James Chase, Nathaniel
Lucas, Joseph Dodge, and Charles G. Davenport. The most important
feat of this corps of youthful soldiers was to march around the Head-
of-the-River, which meant a tramp of seven miles for the lads. An in-
vitation to partake of a collation by a resident on the route caused a
full attendance, and as they marched over the bridge on their way to
Acushnet, visions of sandwiches, jelly cakes, pies and tarts arose before
them. " Blessings on the man who gives to youth a genuine pleasure,"
so thought these juvenile soldiers as they proudly marched to the res-
idence of their host and grounded their arms under the sheltering oaks.
Their thirst was assuaged at the open well with cool, sparkling water,
and a liberal supply of apples was what they got for refreshments. The
march homeward was in marked contrast to that of the morning. The
company never survived this disappointing seven- mile march, and so it
died.

An Anti-Slavery Society was formed at Lyceum Hall June 25, 1S34.
A constitution was adopted and the following ofificers elected: Presi-
dent, William Rotch, jr.; vice-presidents, Joseph Ricketson, John O.
Choules, Andrew Robeson, Joseph Congdon ; corresponding secretary,
John Burrage ; recording secretary, James B. Congdon ; treasurer, John
F. Emerson.

The subject of temperance was at this period in constant agitation.
The following theme was discussed before the New Bedford L)ceum,
October 28, 1834: " Would it be justifiable to make the subject of tem-
perance a political question ? " The Mercnry says : " The favorable
state of affairs in New Bedford to-day, as concerns the scarcity of the
grog-shops and liquor elements, is undeniably due to the earnest efforts
of the citizens a generation or two ago, to suppress intemperance and
the sale of ardent spirits."

On June 15, 1835, the Mercnry office was removed from the Macom-
ber building to the brick building on Water street occupied by the Bed-
ford Commercial Bank.

It appears that in 1835, and for several years prior to that date, the
sentiment in New Bedford against the circus and other traveling shows
was expressed by the refusal of the selectmen to grant licenses. Circus
managers escaped the effects of this edict by holding tlieir exhibitions

NOTABLE EVENTS. 277

in Dartmouth just across the line. The matter was discussed at two
town meetings, and it was decided by a majority vote to instruct the
selectmen to grant licenses for such entertainments. So it happened
that the citizens were privileged for the two weeks following December
23, 1835, to attend Buckley, Weeks & Co.'s circus at the Amphitheater,
corner of County and Elm streets.

The Fourth of July, 1836, was observed with unusual ceremonies. The
vessels in the harbor made a brilliant display with bunting and flags ;
the revenue cutter McLane fired a salute early in the morning; at 10.30
o'clock a procession was formed in front of the court house, under the
direction of Lieutenant Sturges, and marched through several streets ;
an oration was delivered by Wendell Phillips. In the evening the cut-
ter McLane, anchored in the harbor just abreast of Union street, was
brilliantly illuminated.

The Young Men's Anti-Slavery Society was .organized in 1836, and
held its first annual meeting January 2, 1837, in the building formerly
known as the Elm Street Academy. I. C. Taber was elected secretary.

The first directory of the town of New Bedford was published this
year by J. C. Parmenter. It was edited by Henry H. Crapo. It con-
tained the names of the inhabitants, their occupations, places of busi-
ness, and dwelling-houses ; the town register, with list of streets,
wharves, town officers, banks, churches, fire department, etc. It con-
tained also the by-laws and ordinances of the town. The subscription
price was fifty cents ; extra binding, seventy-five cents.

The subscription books for the building of the first railroad from New
Bedford, were opened April 30, 1838.

The Unitarian Church, corner of Union and Eighth streets, was dedi-
cated May 23, 1S38. An account of the services will be found in the
chapter on churches.

The Young Men's Anti- Slavery Society commemorated the abolition
of slavery in the British West Indies by appropriate exercises, in the
Elm street Methodist Episcopal Church, August 12, 1838. Rev. Orange
Scott made the address.

In 1838 a short section ol South Water stree;t south of Union was
paved as an experiment to test this method of improving the highways.
It proved successful and received the approbation of the citizens.

278 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

In 1839 the work was extended, and South Water street to School
street, and Purchase street from Union to WiUiam, were paved.

The record says : " The work stands well, and it is believed that this
mode of repairs for our streets will prove more economical than any
heretofore adopted. It is the only remedy that can be applied to those
streets so situated as to be impassable with mud at certain seasons of
the year."

The Pacific Insurance Company was organized February 9, 1839.
A meeting of the stockholders was held February 8, 1839, at the office
of the Institution for Savings and the following board of directors was
chosen: Elisha Dunbar, Abraham H. Howland, Thomas Nye, jr., Mat-
thew Luce, Abraham Gifford, William C. Taber, Richard A. Palmer,
Stephen N. Potter, Caleb S. Tobey, Jireh Perry, Frederick Parker,
Isaiah Burgess, William H. Stowell. Elisha Dunbar was afterwards
chosen president and Samuel Lumbard, secretary. The capital was
$100,000, of which $50,000 was paid up and invested. The company
took marine risks only.

Among the deaths which occurred at this period were the following :

1830, February 24, Achus Sisson, aged eighty- two years; April 17,
Ezekiel Chandler, aged ninety six ; July 19, Maj. John Coggeshall,
aged seventy-three, an officer in Revolution ; August 30, David Kemp-
ton, aged fifty two ; December 16, Timothy Howland, aged seventy-
eight.

1831, November 10, Benjamin Lindsey, aged fifty- four, original pro-
prietor of the Mercury ; May 19, Ephraim Taber, aged eighty.

1833, January 25, Isaac T. Hathaway, aged thirty six, killed by a fall
from a staging on the brig Hope ; December 25, Paul Hathaway, aged
seventy- eight.

1834, January 16. Isaac Howland, aged sevent)-eight, an eminent
and successful merchant.

•83s, January 1, David Kempton, a worth}' member of the Society
of Friends ; January 6, Cornelius Howland; January 26, William Gor-
don, aged eighty-one, an officer of the Revolution; August 24, Philip
Cannon, aged seventy-nine, a wealthy citizen and a Revolutionarj- sol-
dier ; September 5, Thaddeus Swain, aged eighty- three.

1836, January 22, Samuel Tupper, aged seventy-eight, a hero of the

NECROLOG Y— SMALL-FOX. 279

Revolution; December 24, Samuel Rodman, aged eighty three, a
prominent and successful merchant and esteemed citizen; February 17,
Allen Russell, of Fairhaven, aged ninety- one; February 21, Capt.
Ephraim Simmons, aged ninety-seven, an officer in the American Rev-
olution, a beloved citizen and patriot ; August 26, Deliverance Bennett,
aged eighty, a hero of the Revolution ; December 9, Humphrey Rus-
sell, aged ninety- nine, and esteemed member of the Society of Friends.

1837, February 6, Silas Swift, aged ninety- two; January 22, Robert
Wilson, aged ninety five ; January 29, Desire Hathaway, aged loi
years, 10 months, and 14 days, relict of the late Obed Hathaway; Au-
gust 29, Maria Jenney, aged sixty-six, wife of Jehaziel Jenney.

1838, July 21, Daniel Taber, aged seventy-four years. He was the
first male child born in this village.

1839, July 10, Capt. Joseph Howland, of South Dartmouth, aged
sevent3--eight.

CHAPTER XVII.

FROM 1840 TO INCORPORATION OF THE CITY.

Small-pox — The Athenaeum — Notable Events — Death of President Harrison —
Proposal to Change Form of Local Government —The New Bedford Guards — Their
Uniform — Their First Parade — Their Excursions, Receptions, Visits and Parades —
The Old Militia — The Last Parade — A Humorous Incident — Dissolution of the
Guards — The Parker House — Assistance to Fall River Sufferers — Adoption of City
Charter — Necrology ^ Selectmen 1812-1846 — Street Extension.

r^HE small-pox again made its appearance in New Bedford in 1S39
and 1840. Prompt measures were instituted to control the dis-
ease. Each house containing a case was constituted a hospital and its
occupants subjected to rigid rules. One of the regulations reads :
" Every person, without any exception, who shall leave your premises,
shall be thoroughly smoked by jou, before so doing." General \ac-
cination was enforced.

The annual meeting of the New Bedford Atheiia;tiin was held Jan-

28o HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

uary 15, 1840. The report of the trustees was presented by Rev. John
H. Morrison. It showed the receipts for the year to be $1,264. 1°. and
expenditures $1,147. 14. The trustees made an urgent appeal to the
young men to more liberally patronize the Athenaeum, and to " take ad-
vantage of the books and collections in the natural history cabinets,
thereby developing their minds and preparing themselves for a thor-
ough knowledge of those things most useful in a business life."

The New Bedford and Taunton Railroad was completed in 1840, and
opened to the public July r. An account of the opening ceremonies
is given in the chapter on railroads.

The question of granting licenses for theatrical exhibitions, which
was a vexed topic for several years, again came up at a special town
meeting held September 14, 1840, and by a decisive vote of 566 to
twelve the selectmen were instructed to grant such licenses. A license
had been granted I. P. Adams for a concert and exhibition of comic
songs and narrations at Mechanic's Hall, September i. It would seem
that this fact had prompted the action of the town.

The Whaling Insurance Company of New Bedford was organized
under the State laws in 1840. Its marine risks were limited to $5,000
on each policy issued. George Howland, jr., president; J. H. How-
land, secretary; Thamas S. Hathaway, Gideon Richmond, Edwaid L.
Baker, Oliver C Swift, B. S. Rotch, Wilson Barstow, Abraham H. How-
land, Joseph C. Delano, Barton Ricketson, Jonathan Bourne, jr., Ed-
ward W. Howland, S. W. Rodman, B. B. Howard, Clement P. Covell,
directors.

The market and town hall building was finished and occupied early
in 1840.

At a special town meeting held April lO, 1841, Joseph Grinnell pre-
sided and Henry H. Crapo acted as secretary. Appropriate resolu-
tions were presented and adopted, " lamenting the untimely death of
William Henry Harrison, president of the United States, only one
month from the date of his inauguration." April 27, 1840, was desig-
nated for a memorial ceremony, and it was observed with great solemnity.
A procession was formed at the town hall. Gen. James D. Thomson
acting as marshal. It comprised military and artillery companies, rev-
enue officers, congressmen, postmasters and civil officers, judges of the

AGITATION FOR CITY GOVERNMENT. 281

court, school committee, town officers, and citizens. The procession,
numbering 1,000 persons, marched to solemn music b}' the bands
through the principal streets to the North Baptist (White) Church, where
impressive services were held.

In 1 84 1 the town -house on South Second street was fitted up as an
armory for the city guards, and for police court rooms.

During the year 1841 the agitation of the question of changing the
form of local government was begun. A series of articles appeared in
the Mercury, written by a citizen under the nom de. plume of "Romulus,"
earnestly advocating the change. He favored it in point of economy
and set forth at length and in detail the plans of a complete municipal
government. He described the benefits to be derived by the people
therefrom, and endeavored to show that the size and business impor-
tance of New Bedford had become too great for town government.
The articles, which exhibited much erudition, were responded to and
commented upon by other contributors. Among these were "Remus,"
" North End," and " Interrogation." The substance of these articles
plainly indicated that the subject of a city government had taken a
firm hold on the public mind. This was revealed at the town meeting
February 5, 1842, when the subject came up for general discussion.
A test vote was taken upon the following resolution offered by Benja-
min T. Congdon :

'•Resolved, That in the opinion of the citizens of New Bedford the time
has not yet come, when the convenience of the citizens, or the public
necessities call for an act incorporating this town into a city ; therefore,

" Resolved, That the future consideration of the application for a city
charter for New Bedford be indefinitely postponed."

The vote on these resolutions was 373 in favor af their adoption, and
320 against, showing the wide-spread feeling in favor of a city govern-
ment five years before it was actually established.

A volunteer light infantry company under the name of the New Bed-
ford Guards was organized January 25, 1841, with the following officers:
Captain, Harrison G. O. Colby; lieutenants, James H. Collins. Samuel
Watson, James H. Crocker ; sergeants, Henry P. Willis, James B.
Congdon, David Silvester, John H. Chapman, William Howe ; corpo-
rals, Cyrus W. Chapman, Josiah B. King, Nathaniel R. Childs, Robert

282 HISTOR } OF NE W BEDFORD.

K. Eastman; surgeons, William R. Wells, R. S. S. Andros; treasurer,
James B. Congdon ; armorers, Nicholas T. Brownell, William Brovvnell.
The membership roll comprised about lOO citizens, many of them occu-
pying positions of prominence in the community. i

The Guards wore a blue uniform, swallow- tail coats and trousers,
both trimmed with white, the former with shoulder knots ; black leather
belts, with priming wire and brush attached (for these were the days of
the flint lock gun) ; cartridge boxes, held in position by broad white
cross-belts over the shoulders; regulation caps, the form of which was
unpopular, so they were called "coal hods." This dress was worn at
stated drills and musters prescribed by the State. On festive occasions
and public parades the Guards wore white trousers and Polish hats of
unique design. The hat was of black leather, closely fitting the crown
of the head, and rose in the form of an inverted bell, finished with a
square fiat top. From this floated a tall plume of white and red feath-
ers: a braided loop of white cording from the sides across the front, and
over the silver plated visor was a fiuted metal plate called the ray, with
a gold spread eagle, both brilliantly polished.

The Guards numbered loo men, and formed one of the largest com-
panies in New England. Henry C. Kelley, who happened to be the last
one who signed the roll at its organization, was ever after known in the
corps as " Old Hundred." The corps had a brass band well trained in
martial music under the leadership of Sihon Packard.

The first parade of the New Bedford Guards was on Tuesday,
April 27, 1841, on the commemoration of the death of the President of
the United States, William H. Harrison. They performed escort duty
on this occasion, aided by the Cohannet Rifle Company of Taunton
and the Norton Artillery. After the exercises in the Norton Christian
Church, the soldiers partock of a collation in the town hall. The chief
marshal, Gen. J. D. Thompson, and Maj. J. H. W. Page made speeches
in which the military organizations were highly complimented for the
prompt and soldier-like manner in which they had performed their du-
ties of the day.

The death of one of the members, John Houland Allen, was recog-
nized with appropriate resolutions, and the corps attended his funeral.

THE NEW BEDFORD GUARDS. 283

vvliich was held in the Fourth Street Methodist Episcopal Church May
27, 1841. It was a singular fact that the first two parades of the Bed-
ford Guards were to perform escort duty for funeral processions.

The first training day was observed June 8, 1841, and the company
was exercised in military tactics under the command of Captain Colby.
On the 5th of July, 1841, the Guards opened the festivities of the day
by escorting a procession of Sunday-school children to the church
where public exercises were held. They then proceeded to Taunton in
response to a courteous invitation from the Cohannet Rifle Company,
Captain Hall. They received the most cordial welcome and were the
lions of the day. They were met by the Rifle Company and a large
concourse of people, and escorted to the Green, where they were
greeted with appropriate words of welcome by Hon. Francis Baylies in
behalf of the citizens of Taunton. In the afternoon a banquet was
given, at which speeches and toasts were made, highly complimentary
to the New Bedford Guards.

After the banquet, another parade through the town took place, and
at 6 o'clock the Guards took their departure for home. The day's
pleasure closed with a levee given by the officers. On July 29, 1841,
Third Lieutenant James B. Congdon (who had been elected to that office
June 7) presented his resignation and a request for discharge from the
company. The high esteem in which he was held by his comrades is
shown in the following resolutions which were adopted:

" New Bedford, July 29, 1841.
" Hesolved, That the New Bedfoi'd Guards have received the resignation of their
friend and comrade, Lieut. J. B. Congdon, as an officer and mennber of the corps with
profound regret ; but from the character of the reasons set forth in his letter of resigna-
tion, they feel obliged reluctantly to yield to his request."

Mr. Congdon was a member of the Society of Friends, and it was in
deference to its peace principles that he withdrew from this military or-
ganization. On August 4 the Guards were again marching. They spent
the day in Fairhaven, where they were greeted with a hearty speech of
welcome by E. Sawin, esq., and were provided with a collation. The
corps then made a parade about town, and after performing a number
of evolutions returned home.

August 25, 1841, was a gala day in New Bedford, the event being
the arrival of the Providence Light Infantry, Captain Brown, that was

284 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

to hold an encampment for several days in our town. The occasion
had been looked forward to with great interest in military circles, and
liberal preparations were made by the residents to give the visitors a
royal welcome. They were met at the station by the New Bedford
Guards and a large cavalcade of citizens under the command of Col.
John H. Clifford, who, after a parade through the principal streets, es-
corted the visitors to their encampment on County street, near the
residence of John A. Parker. At 3 o'clock the two military companies
proceeded to the town hall, where a sumptuous dinner had been pre-
pared for them by Mr Horton of the Mansion House. After dinner
speeches by Captain Colby, Colonel Clifford, and Captain Brown were
followed by volunteer toasts and sentiments, intermingled with songs
by Mr. Warner of Providence. The occasion was one of keen pleasure
and it was half-past five when the visitors were escorted to their tented
field.

The next day, Thursday, the ladies of New Bedford complimented
the soldiers with an entertainment, an account of which is taken from
the records of the Guards : " The ladies of New Bedford have been long
distinguished for their elegance and taste, but in the beautiful arrange-
ments for the picnic at Blackmer's Grove they certainly exceeded them-
selves. The tables extended nearly the entire length of the grove, and
with the snowy drapery, the festoons and wreaths, the flowers, cakes and
luscious fruits, formed the most elegant display ever witnessed. It is
not enough to say that the affair was beautifully arranged, it was more;
it was beauty's battle-field." Friday, the 27th, had been set by the Prov-
idence Infantry for a reception of their friends in camp, but the weather
was stormy, and this feature was abandoned. The disappointment was
more than met b\' a ball given in the evening at the armory, now the
Central Police Station. More rain and more disappointment followed
on Saturday, and the anticipated drill was given up. The tents were
struck in the forenoon, and under the escort of the Guaids the Provi-
dence Light Infantry marched to the station and departed for home.
Notwithstanding the stormy weather the occasion wa.s conceded to have
been one of the pleasantest of the season.

A few weeks passed, and again the Guards in full uniform are on
their way to the station to receive the Norfolk Guards, Captain Spoontr,

THE NEW BEDFORD GUARDS. 285

of Roxbury, who had selected the day — October 1 1, 1841 — for a visit
to the prosperous whaling city. These two companies are said to have
been the largest in New England, and they made a fine appearance as
they marched down town. At i o'clock they sat down to a public din-
ner provided by the citizens, after which both companies ijave an exhi-
bition of their proficiency in drill. In the evening the Norfolk Guards
were entertained with dancing in the armorj^ hall, and returned on the
following day to their homes, well pleased with New Bedford hospi-
tality.

In October the ante-rooms of the armory were elegantly furnished
with carpets, mirrors and tables, the whole expense being borne by vol-
untary contributions of the members. The Guards were now estab-
lished in most comfortable quarters, and the close of the first year of
their existence found them in a well- organized condition.

June 21, 1842, the New Bedford Guards made an excursion to Nan-
tucket in the steamer Telegraph, Captain Phinney. The hospitality of
the islanders was unbounded and served to make the visit of the corps
an occasion of the highest enjoyment. The event is spoken of with en-
thusiasm by the few surviving veterans of to-day. The discipline and
military accomplishments of the Guards at this time were in marked
contrast to the rude methods of the militia that preceded them. The
weekl)' drills were schools of learning in military tactics, and rapid ad-
vancement was made in true soldierly graces that made the corps fa-
mous in its day.

The New Bedford Guards had barely recovered from the festivities
at Nantucket before a committee was appointed to make arrangements
for an excursion to Roxbury to visit their old friends, the Norfolk
Guards, and on August 26, 1842, they spent the day in that city, re-
ceiving a royal welcome from the citizens and military. On Septem-
ber 21 the sad news of the death of their comrade, Alexander B.
Dunbar, at Bremen, Germany, was received. Appropriate resolutions
were passed, and the company marched to the residence of Mrs. Dun-
bar and presented her an engrossed copy. The season of 1842 closed on
October 10 with the annual target-shoot. The season of 1843 opened
with a parade on Washington's Birthday. On election da)- in Rhode
Island, May 2, the New Bedford Guards went on an excursion to New-

286 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

port in the steamer Massachusetts, where they were received by the
Newport Artillery, Captain Swan, and the Rhode Island Horse Guards.
In the afternoon the guards had dress parade in front of the State House
and returned home the next morning. May training was observed on
the 31st by a visit to Fairhaven.

A rest of less than three weeks, and again the Guards are on the
march, this time to take part in that great event, the celebration of the
completion of Bunker Hill monument, June 17, 1843. They assembled
at the armory at 3 o'clock Saturday morning, and marching to the sta-
tion took the 4 o'clock train, arriving on Boston Common at 7.15.
Here they joined the other military companies (fifty- eight organizations
in all), and at 12 o'clock wheeled into the line of procession for Bunker
Hill. It was fitting that New Bedford should be represented on this
occasion, for the old township of Dartmouth had two militia companies
in the army about Boston when the battle of Bunker Hill was fought,
June 17, 1775. The Guards were entertained with abountiful collation
by their old friends, the Norfolk Guards. It was their privilege to listen
to the famous oration by Daniel Webster.

Our own city had a part in the patriotic enterprise of building
Bunker Hill monument. In 1836 $642 were contributed for this ob-
ject. ^

In speaking of the old militia times the opportunity must not be lost
for recording some reminiscences of those days, furnished by Elisha C.
Leonard.

The old militia system gradually fell into contempt ; and as wealth
increased, those who had military aspirations and could stand the ex-
pense went into the uniformed companies. The uniforms, precise evo-
lutions, and martial music served to render the parades and half-yearly
exercises of the militia ridiculous ; and the continued peace of the na-
tion had allowed the active generation to come forward without knowl-
edge of the art of war except that obtained from the traditions of the
Revolution and the War of 18 12. The State laws, however, were in
force, and all citizens between twenty and sixty years of age were sub-
ject to a warning to perform military duty at May trainings and at yearly
musters.

' A list of the subscribers will be found in the appendix.

CAPTAIN JACK'S LAST PARADE. 287

The afternoons of the training days were generally devoted to filing
exercise. The companies fired by platoons on the march, divided and
filed off to the right and left, and loaded muskets while the other pla-
toons advanced and performed the same exercise. Sometimes the
companies were drawn up in line and the firing was simultaneous; then
again a fusillade was discharged down the line from right to left. Re-
freshments were deemed absolutely necessary in those days before the
advent of temperance societies, and many an officer obtained his com-
mission through his liberality in Santa Cruz, lemons and sugar. By the
time the afternoon exercises were in operation the refreshments had
begun to tell, and in the roar of the discharges one could not always be
sure that his musket went off It was no unusual thing to see a soldier
knocked head over heels by the explosion of a double charge in his
musket. The effect was all the more terrific if the gun happened to be
an old king's arm that was rusty and considerably breech-burned.

The very last parade in this town was notable. There were three
companies called the North Enders, Middle Company, and South End-
ers. The latter company had elected a fine looking fellow as captain,
who entered upon his duties full of enthusiasm. He determined that
every man in his district should obey the laws of the State. " Train or
pay " was his watchword, and he sent out his warning to every one
liable to do military duty. There was a man boarding with this cap-
tain's father who was rather feeble, and whom the old man requested
his son, Captain Jack, to leave off the list and not to warn him, as he
could ill afibrd to pay the fine. The noble commander said he should
be warned, and then ensued a contention that culminated in a fight in
which the old man was soundly thrashed. The story soon became
known by everybody about the town. On the day of inspection and
parade Captain Jack appeared with a full company of one hundred men.
His persistent energy, combined with the fear of being fined, had
brought satisfactory results. The inspection and drill were as thorough
as possible, and the enthusiasm of the commander permeated the whole
force. A good dinner and plenty of refieshments followed, and in the
afternoon the company was exercised in marching.

At about 3 o'clock they paraded down Union street. Captain Jack at
the head of the column, resplendent in a blue coat trimmed with lace,

288 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

epaulets, white trousers, red belt, sword, a bell-topped enamel hat, sur-
mounted by a tall plume of red and white feathers; in fact he was ar-
rayed in the full uniform of an infantry officer. There was unusual
order and compactness along the line save a little unsteadiness now and
then, that betrayed the working of the punch. John Perry, of ' Dog
Corner " fame, was in his place next to the second sergeant. His mus-
ket was properly shouldered, and in his right hand he carried a long
switch stick. He was constantly saluting and pointing to persons he
knew among the spectators. The company passed down Union street,
and Captain Jack wheeled his command into North Water street, which
was crowded with people. Merchants, lawyers, traders, bank and in-
surance officers and mechanics were there gazing upon the pageant as
it marched along. No commander ever carried himself better than did
Captain Jack, his form perpendicular and his step as measured and true
as the most rigid disciplinarian could have desired. His lofty plume
nod4ed gracefully in the air, and there was a manifest haughtiness and
pride in his bearing that showed his appreciation of the dignity of his
office. As the second section wheeled around the corner of North
Water street, John Perry, with a broad smile on his countenance, and
pointing forward with his stick, with stentorian voice that rang out above
the music, shouted " That's the boy that whipped his daddy." The
effect was electric, the crowd burst into one uproarious shriek of laugh-
ter, and poor Captain Jack collapsed. In a meek and despondent spirit
he marched his company home and dismissed it, never again to be as-
sembled. Captain Jack's military days were ended.

At six o'clock on the morning of August 2, 1843, the New Bedford
Guards marched to the Pearl street station, and received the Boston
Light Infantry, Captain Andrews, who, accompanied by the famous
Boston Brigade Band, were to hold a three days' encampment in the
town. After exchanging military courtesies, the two corps paraded
through the principal streets. The encampment was held on the County
street lot near the John Avery Parker residence, corner of Willis street.
Late in the afternoon the soldiers partook of a banquet in the armorj' ;
and in the evening there was a grand parade, the brilliancy of the oc-
casion being enhanced by torchlights carried by the Philadelphia En-
gine Company No. 7. On Saturday, the last day of the encampment,

THE NEW BEDFORD GUARDS. 289

high carnival pervaded the town, and the festivities closed with anrther
parade through the streets.

The annual muster was held in South Bridgewater, September 25, 1843,
and the New Bedford Guards were honored by being sekcted as escort
for the governor and his staff. It is apparant from a glance through
the financial records that at this time the Guards were feeling the force
of the saying that " if you dance, you must pay the fiddler." Never-
theless, they held their annual target shoot, May 29, 1844, at Benjamin
Rodman's farm. The honors and a gold medal were won by John N.
Barrows

The morning of August 22, 1844, found the Guards in marching
order on their way to Providence, where they were to hold a three
days' encampment for improvement in military tactics and other con-
siderations. They were met by the First Light Infantry, Captain
Brown, who provided them with an excellent breakfast at the railroad
station. They were then escorted to the City Hotel and made "wel-
come with a speech from the mayor of the city. Their tents were
pitched at the head of the cove, a convenient location, with beautiful
surroundings. In the afternoon, a banquet provided by the Light In-
fantry Company was enjoyed at the Franklin House.

It is presumed that the next day, August 22, was devoted in part to
military exercises, the only event that hindered the whole time being
used for that purpose being a clam bake at Medbury's grove. The
reader may judge for himself as to the proportion of time given to
each.

The 23d had been set down for a grand parade in the city, but the
stormy weather made it impossible ; so the day was spent in camp pleas-
ures peculiar to such conditions. Dress parade was observed late in
the afternoon, during which time guard duty was performed by the
Rhode Island Horse Guards. In tl>e evening the corps attended the
theater, and on the next day, after visiting the several armories of the
city, the New Bedford Guards were escorted to the station and pro-
ceeded homeward. A pleasant surprise was in store for them on their
arrival, for they were met at the station by a large body of cavalry and
infantry under the command of their late sergeant, Henry P. Willis,
who escorted them to the armory, where a second surprise greeted them

ago HISTOR\ OF NEW BEDFORD.

in the sliape of a bounteously spread table of refreshments. Thus ended
one of tlie most enjoyable excursions in the history of the New Bedford
Guards.

Washington's birthday in 1845 was recognized by the Guards with a
street parade and an entertainment in the town hall that was attended
by military men from Boston, Providence and elsewhere.

May training was held on May 28, 1845. The Guards pitched their
tents at Fort Phoenix, making the voyage across the river in the ferry
boat Union, or the Crab, as she was called in our boyhood days. The
best shot d\iring the target practice was made by Mr. Tilson Wood,
and he was awarded the silver medal.

The Guards then embarked for home, and after a short parade re-
turned to the armory, where they closed the festivities by assessing
themselves 62^ cents each to pay for the day's sport.

It was about this time that the minds of some of the Guards began
to be stirred with pleasant memories of the past. Visions of Nantucket,
with hospitable people, their lavish entertainment in 1842, the genuine
heartiness of the reception accorded the Guards, all these and more,
came before them with such fascination that it required but little argu-
ment to convince them that another excursion was indispensable. And
so it came about, that on Tuesday, July 31, 1845, i"ider the command
of Lieut. Lincoln F. Brigham, they were again on their way to the
island.

The visit of the New Bedford Guards had long been anticipated by
Nantucket people; and when the steamer Massachusetts hove in sight,
large crowds wended their way to the various localities by which the
Guards were to march. The windows and doorways along the route
were filled with women and children, and the sidewalks were lined with
men and boys. The American flag was flung to the breeze at the Whig
reading-room, and salvos of artillery were fired as the steamer rounded
up at Commercial wharf. The Guards were received b)' a cavalcade of
seventy citizens, under command of Matthew Starbuck, esq., assisted by
William Summerhaj's, Barker Brownell, John Cook, ir., and Henry H.
Jones. The escort was accompanied by the Nantucket band. As the
procession marched through the principal streets, the visitors weie
greeted with shouts of welcome, the waving of handkerchiefs and other

THE NEW BEDFORD GUARDS.

291

demonstrations of joy. The encampment of sixteen tents was pitched
on a charming location, and the Guards went into camp fully prepared
to enjoy themselves to their heart's content. Their own band was sup-
plemented with several members of the Boston Brigade Band, and the
citizens were daily entertained with music.

The Guards were complimented for their manly and soldier- like ap-
pearance and were considered good specimens of New Bedford citizen-
ship. On Sunday they attended church and listened to a sermon by
Rev. Mr. Knapp The service was an interesting one, the excellent
singing by the choir and the fine organ music by Prof. Tmvnley adding
much to its impressive character. The festivities were continued on
Monday with an excursion in the steamer Telegraph to Tucl-jernuck,
and a ball in the evening in Washington Hall. The Guards returned
home from the week's outing on Wednesday, August 6. They were
met at the wharf and escorted to the armory by a detachment of the
Willis Guards, Henry P. Willis, commander This company was com-
posed of former members of the New Bedford Guards.

When, a few days afterwards, the Guards met and assessed themselves
$20 apiece to pay the bills, the occasion was marked by its solemnity,
quite in contrast to the target shoot when 62j/( cents was all that was
required from each to settle accounts. The following item in the rec-
ords, written with pencil, is significant: "Excursion to Nantucket on
camp duty for one week, August I, 1845," of which there seems to be
no record. The fact was that the Guards, having in remembrance the
unprecedented generosity of the Nantucket people on their former trip
in 1842, made no special provision for the expenses.

The New Bedford Guards paraded on the afternoon of September 1 r,
1845, and visited by invitation the residence of their commander, Capt.
H. G. O. Colby, where they were treated to a collation. This enter-
tainment seems to have been given to mark the close of Captain Colby's
career as commander of the corps, for the annual muster that immedi-
ately followed was the last public appearance of the New Bedford Guards
in 1845. January 29, 1846, Lincoln F. Brigham was unanimously
chosen captain, and on May 27 the list of officers was completed by
the election of the following: First lieutenant, Seth Russell; second
lieutenant, Ferdinand Vassault ; third lieutenant (not mentioned), prob-
ably A. B. Cory; fourth lieutenant, Barnabas Ewer, jr.

292 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

It being the regular May training, the company marched to Clark's
Point, armed and equipped as the law directed, pitched their tents and
proceeded to the duty of target- shooting Stephen A. Tripp distin-
guished himself on this occasion bj' making the best shot, and he was
accorded the honors of the day. The Guards then struck their tents
and proceeded to New Bedford, where they paraded through the princi-
pal streets.

Fourth of Jul\^ was celebrated in an unusually patriotic manner It
would surely interest our readers if we gave a detailed description of
the procession, for which the New Bedford Guards acted as escort.
Among the many organizations in line were the Masons, Odd Fellows,
temperance societies and eleven fire engine companies, including one
from Fairhaven. This company bore a beautiful banner, presented by
ladies of that town. An oration was delivered by George Lunt. esq.,
of Newburyport, in the South Congregational Church (Trinitarian). In
the evening there was a grand display of fireworks and a torchlight pro-
cession of firemen with 400 flashing torches in the line. In the after-
noon the Guards partook of a dinner at the Parker House, as guests of
Philadelphia Engine Company No. 7. The occasion was enlivened with
speeches and toasts, by Judge Colby, J. A. Kasson, and others. After
their return to the armory their hearts were made glad by the receipt
of a check for $50, the gift of J. H. W. Page, esq. Judging from the
liberal expenditures made by the corps at this time, they had good
reason to rejoice ovt-r the generous donation.

The following list of officers of the New Bedford Guards appears in
the city directory for 1845: Captain, Lincoln F". Brigham ; first lieu-
tenant, James H. Crocker; second lieutenant, William Howe; third
lieutenant, George A. Bourne; fourth lieutenant, John H. Chapman;
quartermaster, David Baker; paymaster, Seth Russell; commissary,
J. B. King; surgeon, Ebenezer Plant; treasurer, George A. Bourne;
clerk, Thomas Bailey; sergeants, H. F. Clark, B. Ewer, jr., F. W.
Hatch, J. P. Merrick, Thomas Bailey; corpopals, E. T. Taber, S. A.
Tripp, I. F. Parsons, Benjamin Hill; armorer, Benjamin Hill ; assistant
armorer. S A. Tripp. According to the records Captain Brigham was
not fully commissioned till Januar\' 29, 1S46.

The sound of martial music on July 21, 1S46, announced to the citi-

THE NEW BEDFORD GUARDS.

293

zens that the New Bedford Guards were again on the march, this time
to receive the Union Rifle Company of New York, who arrived in the
schooner Ellen Rodman, Captain Sherman. Artillery salutes were fired
by Captain Dunham, a veteran of 1 812, as the vessel rounded up to the
wharf The Guards escorted their guests to the Parker House, after a
street parade, where a collation was served ; thence to their encamp-
ment on Kempton street. The Riflemen were a fine looking body, in
excellent discipline, and in their Highland uniforms made a splendid
appearance. An excursion to Woods Hole, in steamers Massachusetts
and Naiislwn, and a grand ball were included in the festivities of the
occasion.

At 5 o'clock in the morning of September 29, 1846, the New Bedford
Guards took the train for the muster field at Abington. On their re-
turn they went to Boston, where they paraded and were entertained
with a collation at the Exchange.

The opening months of 1847 found the New Bedford Guards wrest-
ling with the financial problem that seemed to constantly harass their
existence. By April they had recovered sufficiently to hold a grand
ball on the 2d, that was not only attended by prominent nlen from out
the city, but "the beauty and elite of this city were present, and a mer-
rier conipan)' probably were never congregated together on any similar
occasion in this place." The annual inspection and target-shoot took
place on the Nash farm May 26, 1847, when Stephen Wing won the
prize. It will interest many readers if we give the list of officers elected
at the annual meeting : Captain, Seth Russell, vice L. F. Brigham, re-
signed ; first lieutenant, Ferdinand Vassault ; second lieutenant, Barna-
bas Ewer, jr.; third lieutenant, John A. Hawes; fourth lieutenant, Francis
W. ffatch In the evening, by invitation, the Guards attended the
theater in Liberty Hall.

April 29, 1 847, the town of New Bedford became a city. The Guards
recognized the event by calling upon His Honor, Abraham H. How-
land, the first mayor, on the evening of June 8. The brass band vol-
unteered their services for the occasion, and the evening proved to be
highly enjoy, ible to all concerned. A fine collation was served. From
the mayor's residence they proceeded to the home of their former com-
mander. Judge H. G. O. Colb)-, where a joily hour was passed.

2 94 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

At 7.30 o'clock on the morning of June 28, the Guards embarked on
steamer Nauslion for an excursion to Woodville. Some 500 citizens
joined them, and a good time was enjoyed by all.

It was the intention of the Guards to spend the Fourth of July, 1847,
in Edgartown, but they consented to postpone this excursion so as to
perform escort duty at home. The day was observed with unusual
enthusiasm, the festivities including a procession, an oration by J. A.
Kasson, esq., a dinner in City Hall and fireworks. Among the visitors
were two fire companies from Nantucket. The postponed excursion to
Edgartown was made July 14, and while it proved to be a very pleasant
affair it involved a pecuniary loss of over $300. It was confidently ex-
pected that hundreds of people would accompany them on the trip, but
only seventy-five went. It was an unfortunate affair, for it involved a
heavy assessment to pay the bills. A brave attempt was made to rise
above the existing difficulties, and with apparent success. A new uni-
form was purchased in August, and the Guards went to muster at
Abington, September 21, in fine style and with a goodly number in the
ranks.

The financiial affairs of the company at the opening of the year 1848
were in a healthy condition, and the treasurer's account showed that all
bills were paid and a small balance in the treasury. It was manifest
that there was a steady decline of interest in military affairs, and it was
with difficulty that the rolls could be kept full.

The annual target-shoot was held at Clark's Cove, May 31, when
Amos Chase was the winner of the medal. An invitation to visit Wash-
ington to participate in the laying of the corner-stone of the Washing-
ton monument July 4, 1848, was declined, and so was the request of
the city authorities for escort duty. A desperate attempt was made in
the fall to recruit the ranks, and some fifteen men were elected. The
Guards were able to make a good appearance when, on October 3,
1848, they marched to the station on their way to the annual muster at
Middleborough. On their return they were escorted to their armory
by engine companies Philadelphia No. 7 and Hancock No. 9, and the
parade was made brilliant with many lighted torches. The discourage-
ments that presented themselves at this period, however, called for de-
cisive action; and at a meeting held December i, 1848, the committee
appointed to consider the situation made the following report:

/Z(5^2^^i^<^ /c! , iy?

DISMEMBERMENT OF THE GUARDS.

29s

" Whereas, The New Bedford Guards for a series of years, by tlieir discipline, soldier-
like deportment, numerical strength and martial bearing have elicited the warmest en-
comiums of applause from those whose province it was to review and inspect, and

" Whereas, From cause for the last two years, that military ardor which, for the pre-
vious years of the existence of said corps, characterized its rise and progress, has almost
nnperceptibly vanished, and

^^ Whereas, In our judgment every tangible argument, every honorable concession, and
ever_Y patriotic feeling has been appealed to unsuccessfully to restore to its original stand-
ing the reputation of the corps ; and finally, where every effort compatible with the dig-
nity of the citizen soldiery has been exhausted to accomplish a result so much to be
desired and coveted, and all these without the most remote prospect of success, there-
fore

"Resolved, That, in consideration of all these discouragements, we see no other alter-
native than a dissolution of the corps ; and although many of your committee have passed
through many or all the vicissitudes before enumerated, they can, nevertheless, but feel
that this anticipated dismemberment, though more sudden in its effects, is preferable to
a lingering disease, a recovery from which can not for a moment be cherished.
" Which is respectfully submitted by your committee.

" Henry F. Thomas, E. T. Taber,
IsRAKL T. Bryant, Levi Nye,

F. W. Uatch, George G. Nye,

A. G. Corey, James H. Tallman,

H. F. Clark."

Committees were appointed to wind up affairs, and a nominal exist-
ence was maintained for several months Weekly drill and business
meetings were held until the month of June, 1849, when tlie New Bed-
ford Guards, one of the best organized and most thoroughly equipped
military organizations the city ever had, closed its career.

The Parker House was opened and dedicated on Thursday, February
10, 1842, by a sumptuous dinner given by the hosts, Messrs. Horton &
Son. There were about 200 citizens and strangers who sat down and
partook of the good things spread before them. Among those present
were Col. John H. Clifford, Messrs. R. R. Crocker, W. T. Hawes,
J. H. \V Page, and T D. Eliot, of this city ; Messrs. Baylies and Holmes,
of Taunton ; Weeks, of Boston, and Thomas, of Worcester. Grace
was pronounced by Rev. Sylvester Holmes, and at the close of the re-
past Rev. Thomas M. Smith returned thanks in a brief and appropriate
manner. Many brilliant speeches were made, and toasts suited to the
occasion were tendered. Among the latter were, "The Parker House,"
responded to by John Avery Parker, esq. The building thus opened

296 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

as a public hotel was built and occupied for many years by this gentle-
man as his private residence. It was named in liis honor. The toast,
" The Homes of New Bedford," was responded to by Colonel Clifford ;
"The Health of the Hostess of the Parker House," drunk standing, by
W. T. Hawes; "The Nestor of the Ocean, Commodore Crocker," by
the president; " Our Host," by William Eddy.

A public meeting was held in the town hall July 8, 1843, to take
steps to raise funds for the relief of the sufferers at Fall River, from a
disastrous fire in that town on the afternoon of July 2. Stephen Mer-
rihew presided. A committee was appointed and the result of their
work was submitted for publication July 2 :

Cash contributions of citizens, . '. . . $ 1,3-17 89

Proceeds of Mr. Russell's concert 222 00

Proceeds of Mr. Harrington's diorama, .... 12 00

Total. . . S 1,581 8!J

In addition to this generous sum there were sent six wagon loads of
household furniture, provisions and clothing. Collections were taken
for this object in the William street Baptist Church, amounting to
$36.75, and in the North Christian Church, $70.

On the evening of September 27, 1843, ex- President John Quincy
Adams visited New Bedford as the guest of Hon. Joseph Grinnell. He
was escorted from the depot by a cavalcade of fort)' young men bear-
ing torches under the command of George A. Brown. The ne.xt day
a public reception was given to the distinguished visitor in the town
hall. An address of welcome was delivered by James B. Congdon,
chairman of selectmen. Mr. Adams made a twenty-minute speech to
the audience that crowded the hall. At the close of the exercises hun-
dreds of citizens availed themselves of the privilege of shaking hands
with the honored statesman.

His first visit to New Bedford was on Saturday, September 19, 1835,
when with his son and several gentlemen he arrived from Nantucket in
the Steamer Telegraph. The party was quartered at the Mansion
House, and on Sunday attended rehgious worship at Rev. Mr. Angler's
church.

The first negro minstrel concert ever given in New Bedford was in
Mechanics' Hall, February 18 and 19, 1845, by the " Sable Sisters and
Ethiopian Minstrels."

ACCEPTANCE OF THE CITY CHARTER. 297

In 1843 Daniel Webster was in New Bedford. His presence here
was as counsel in a will case, then being tried in the court-house.
His address to the jury was of thrilling interest to an immense audience
that crowded the court- room.

The Pacific Congregational Church, located on the corner of Foster
and Kempton streets, was dedicated Wednesday afternoon, November
S. 1845.

Almost every year a committee was appointed to suppress the sale
of intoxicating liquors. In 1S46 the committee was instructed to call
on every family in town and ascertain if they were for, or against, the
temperance movement, and whether they would adopt the teetotal
pledge.

The question of accepting a cit)- charter came up for discussion early
in the year of 1847. -^t a special town meeting held January 23, the
matter was referred to a committee of twenty citizens : J. H. \V. Page,
George Howland, jr., Sampson Perkins, John Baylies, Horatio A. Kemp-
ton, Thomas Mandeli, George Hussey, Henrj' H. Crapo, Abraham
Barker, John H. Clifford, William H. Taylor, Henry Taber, James H.
Collins, Edward W. Green, I. D. Hall, E. M. Robinson, Ward M. Par-
ker, Thomas A. Greene, Ephraim Kempton, Seth Russell. At a meet-
ing held February 6, the committee reported a form of charter. Sev-
eral amendments were made, and after a vigorous discussion the com-
mittee was instructed to petition the General Court for the passage of
an act granting the town a city charter.

Another town meeting was held March 8 for further consideration of
the subject, but it adjourned without action by a vote of 398 to 273.
On March 18 the citizens voted upon the acceptance of an " Act to
establish the city of New Bedford." It was carried by a vote of 1,150
to 814 against.

Among the deaths occuring at this period were the following :

1840, May 4, William Howland, aged eighty-four; November 2 T,
Nathaniel Rogers, an influential citizen of the town, aged fifty-six.

1 841, July 20, Captain Joseph Dunbar, a successful and retired ship-
master, aged fifty-four; August 6, Weston Howland, a respected mem-
ber of the Society of Friends, aged seventy- eight ; October 9, Joseph
Ricketson, an eminent citizen, distinguished for his unblemished char-

298 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

acter and usefulness, cashier of the New Bedford Commercial Rank, aged
seventy- one.

1842, January 16, John Hathaway, a pensioner of the American Rev-
olution, the oldest citizen at date of his death, aged eighty seven.

1844, June 16, Thurston Potter, aged eighty-si.x ; Jul)' 24, Elihu Rus-
sell, aged eighty ; August 8, Deacon James Tripp, one of the original
members of William Street Baptist Church, aged sixty-five.

1847, March 18, Benjamin Drew, soldier of the Revolution, aged
eighty; June 15, Capt. Stephen Merrihew, a prominent and much re-
spected citizen.

List of Seleiimitn : 1812 and 181.3, Roger Haskell, Samuel Perry. Manasseh Kenipton ;
1814, Roger Haskell, Samuel Perry, Capt. William Hathaway ; 181-5, Samuel Perry,
Manasseh Kemptoii, Joseph Ricketson ; 181G, Joseph Ricketson, Jonathan Swift, James
Howland 2d; 1817, James Howland 2d, William Hathaway, Manasseh Kempton ;
1818 and 1819, Manasseh Kempton, William Hathaway, Dudley Davenport; 1820,
Roger Haskell, William Hathaway, Eli Haskell ; 1821, Eli Haskell, Gideon Howland,
jr., William Hathaway; 1822, Eli Haskell, Gideon Howland, jr., Killey Eldredge; 1823,
William Hathaway, Elkanah Tallman, Ephraim Kempton; 1824, Ephraim Kemplon,
William Hathaway, Joseph Bourne ; 182.5 and 1826, William Hathaway, .Joseph
Bourne, Ephraim Kempton; 1827 and 1828, Joseph Bourne, William Hathaway, Eph-
raim Kempton; 1829, Joseph Bourne, William C. Nye, Thomas Mandell ; 1830, Will-
iam C. Nye. Thomas Mandell, Joseph R. Shiverick; 1831, Thomas Mandell, William C.
Nye, Joseph R, Shiverick ; 1832, Alfred Gibbs, Eli Haskell, Ephraim Kempton ; 1833,
Charles W. Morgan, James B. Congdon, Samuel Little; 1834, Charles W. Morgan,
.lames B. Congdon, Thomas Nickerson ; 1835, James B. Congdon, Thomas Nickerson,
Joseph R. Shiverick; 1836, James B. Congdon, Samuel Tobey, E. N. Chaddock ; 1837,
James B. Congdon, Thomas B. Bush, Ephraim Kempton; 1838 and 1839, James B.
Congdon, Thomas B. BubIi, John P. West; 1S40, James B. Congdon, Ephraim Kemp-
ton, John P. AVest; 1841, Samson Perkins, Edward W. Greene, Rodney French ; 1842,
1843, 1844, and 1845, Ephraim Kempton, James B. Congdon, George Howland, jr. ;
1846, George Howland, jr., John Baylies, Horatio A. Kempton.

STREET EXTENSION.

1831, March 28, First street extended from Walnut to Bush street.
Fifth street from School to Walnut street. Elm street from Purchase to
County street.

1832, road accepted from Ricketson house, near Clark's Cove, east-
erly and southerly, to road leading to Clark's Point.

1833, Sixth street accepted from Elm to Middle streets, Maxfield
street from Purchase to County road. Mill street from Purchase to Ray

EXTENSION OF STREETS.

299

street, Fourth street from Francis Taber's house to Bedford street, Rus-
sell street from Sixth to Third street, Bedford street from County street
to Third street.

1834, Fifth street accepted from Walnut to Bedford street, Walden
street from Maxfield to Hillman street, Water street from Bush to Grif-
fin street.

1835, Eighth street accepted from Spring to William street, Kempton
street from County to contemplated Foster street. Mill street from Mill

street to , Center street from Water to Orange street. Bush street

from County to contemplated Seventh street.

1836, Pleasant street accepted from North to Willis street, Campbell
street from Purchase to Pleasant street, Ray street to Pearl street. Pearl
street from Ray to Purchase street. Sixth street from Union to William
street. Sixth street from Russell to Bedford street.

1837, Foster street accepted from Maxfield to Hillman street, Foste''
street from North to Middle street, Sixth street from William to Elm
street, Cannon street from Second to Third street, Middle street from
County street to African church. Summer street from Middle to Kemp-
ton street.

1838, Seventh street accepted to Bush street, Grinnell street from
Third to Water street. Pleasant street from North to Maxfield street.

1839, Walnut street accepted from Water street to River, First street
from Grinnell to South street. First street to School street, South Water
street from Griffin to Clark's Neck, North Water street from Middle to
North street. Market street from Sixth to Cheapside.

1840, Purchase street widened and laid out anew from Maxfield street
to junction of County road, Hill street accepted from Kempton to North
street.

1 84 1, Pleasant street accepted from Maxfield to Willis street, Ark
lane from North Second to North Water street, Thomas street from
Hillman to Maxfield street. Bush street from Sixth to Seventh street,
Rodman street from North Water to Orange street.

1842, Sixth street accepted from Wing to Grinnell street, Bedford
street from County street to Dartmouth lane. Union street from County
to contemplated Orchard street. North Orchard street from contem-
plated Union to contemplated Morgan street. Smith street from County
to Albro lot. Eighth street from William to Elm street.

300 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

1843, Oichard street accepted from Hawthorn to Bedford street,
Foster street from North to Hillman street, Elm street from County to
C. W. Morgan's land.

1844, Grinnell street accepted from Third to County street. State
street from Campbell to Willis street, Campbell street from Pleasant to
State street, Hill street from North to Hillman street.

1845, Russell street accepted from South Second to South Water
street, South Second street from Grinnell to South street, Hawthorn
street from County to contemplated Cottage street, North street from
Ray to Water street, Pleasant street from Willis to Pearl street.

1846, Cedar street accepted from North to Kempton street, Grinnell
street from South Water to South Orange street, Grinnell street from
County to contemplated Orchard street, Washington street from County

to Dartmouth street, North Water street from Hillman street to ,

State street from Willis to contemplated Franklin street. South street
from Third to contemplated Orange street, Summer street from Elm
to Middle street, Bellville Road from McPherson's wharf to Head-of-
the- River.

CHAPTER XVIII.

FROM THE INCORPORATION OF THE CITY TO THE CIVIL WAR.

Adoption of City Charter — First Olficers under the New Government — Inaugu-
ration Ceremonies — Events of Interest — The Dudley Davenport Fire —Summary of
Events — Burning of Liberty Hall — Effects of the Fugitive Slave Law — The Howland
Street Riot — The Water Street Fire — Opening of New Streets — Necrology.

THE city charter was adopted March 18, 1847, ^"'^ the city govern-
ment was organized April 28, with the following officers :
Mayor — Abraham H. Howland.

Aldermen — Ward one, John Avery Parker ; ward two, Thomas B.
White ; ward three, Ivory H. Bartlett ; ward four, William H. Taylor ;
ward five, James B. Wood ; ward six, Edward W. Howland.

Councilmen — Ward one, Abraham Gardner, Joseph Clarke, Clem-
ent Covell, Jere. Greenman ; ward two. Perry G. Macomber, Isaac M.

INAUGURATION OF THE CITY GOVERNMENT. 301

West, Pardon Potter, jr., Abraham Delano; ward three, Peleg Butts, jr.,
Isaac Brownell, James Durfee, jr., Bennett Wilcox ; ward four, L. Ma-
comber, Caleb L. Ellis, William H. Allen, Daniel McKenzie ; ward five,
James B. Congdon, Lemuel Kollock, Francis Baker, Charles R. Tucker ;
ward six, B. F. Rowland, James L. Pierce, Josiah S. Bonney, Nathan-
iel Gilbert.

Overseers of the Poor — Ward one, Obed Nye ; ward two, Horatio
A. Kempton ; ward three, Robert Ingraham ; ward four, William A.
Gordon ; ward five, David Brayton ; ward si.\', P^dvvard W. Howland.

Assessors — Ward one, George A. Bourne ; ward two, I. M. Rich-
ardson ; ward three, Ichabod Chase ; ward four, John R. Thornton ;
ward five, Barnabas S. Perkins; ward six, Benjamin R. Sayer.

School Committee — Ward one, George A. Bourne, Linneas Wood,
Daniel C. Burt ; ward two, Sylvester Holmes, Horatio A. Kempton,
Luther G. Hewins ; ward three, William H. Stowell, Thomas Davis,
William W. Sweet; ward four, Rufus Babcock, Charles Hafifards,
Thomas D. Elliot; ward five, Thomas A. Greene, George Howland, jr.,
William Howe; ward six, Henry H. Crapo, William P. Howland, Fran-
cis Post.

The inauguration ceremonies took place in the Common Council
chamber on Wednesday afternoon, April 28. George Howland, jr.,
made declaration of the election of mayor, aldermen, and councilmen.
The oath of office was administered by Hon. Oliver Prescott, and prayer
was offered by Rev. Moses Howe. The mayor delivered his inaugural
address, in which he described the many advantages to be attained by
the new order of government. He said : "It must be obvious to every
person of experience that the great interests of a population of 16,000,
including the management of public property, the instruction of chil-
dren, the support of the poor, the maintenance and control of the fire
department, the raising of taxation and proper annual appropriations of
from $70,000 to $80,000 cannot be either judiciously or satisfactorily
managed in a town meeting, in which not more than one-fifth of the
legal voters can be present, composed, as it is liable to be, of a large
number of temporary residents, and comprehending a small portion of
those who have the largest interest in the affairs of the community. A
city government with two council boards, each having the power to nega-

302 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

tive the proceedings of the other, and consisting of a limited number of
persons in whom the electors have reposed confidence, affords the surest
guarantee that important measures will receive mature deliberation, and
be satisfactorily administered, while it secures greater accountability in
the expenditure of the public money."

At the conclusion of the lengthy address, the government completed
its organization by the election of James B. Congdon, president of the
common council; Henry H. Crapo, city treasurer and collector; Isaac
M. Richardson, city clerk. The school committee organized with
Thomas A. Greene as chairman, and William Howe secretary.

The event of the birth of the new city was signalized by expressions
of rejoicing from the citizens. The bells were rimg, salutes were fired,
the Citizens' liand performed martial music, and all the demonstrations
were of a very enthusiastic character. The city at this time had a pop-
lation of 16,000 and was enjoying a tide of prosperity. The whaling
industry, which had been to a large extent the source of the wealth and
growth of the place, had about reached its climax of importance, and
the new city entered upon its municipal existence under the most en-
couraging prospects.

The months succeeding the inauguration were busy ones to the city
officials in adapting public affairs to the new order of things. Ordi-
nances were passed to regulate and govern matters relating to finance,
accounts, public buildings, public instruction, roads, bridges and sewers,
fire department, police department, burial grounds, alms houses, etc.

The following citizens were elected to fill the positions named : City
marshal, Timothy Ingraham ; assistant marshals, Shubael G. Edwards,
William O Russell ; policemen, Thomas Davis, George W. Shearman,
Daniel Ripley, Lewis G. Allen. Marshall B. Bird, Joshua P. Dunbar;
watchmen, Otis H. Horton, captain ; Calvin Harvey, Ichabod Cogge-
shall, James N. Sampson, Thomas Albert, John C. Banker, John Allen,
Winthrop Adams.

The establishment of the city charter evidently gave great satisfaction
to a majority of the people. Their sentiments were voiced in an edi-
torial in the Mercury which closed with the following: "Success to the
city of New Bedford I may she ever be foremost in good works, ever
be eminent as the friend of freedom, liberality, good will, education, and

SUMAIARY OR EVENTS. 303

Christianity ! To the latest generation may she be a burning and a
shining light ! May she be illuminated with the oil of gladness and
blessed with plenty and prosperity ! "

The magnetic telegraph was exhibited January 17, 1847, by Dr. Bur-
bank to the citizens of the town.

The new alms-house on Clark's Point, built by James Wheaton and
Wright Brownell, at a cost of $17,000, was completed and opened with
a public service and addresses on January 10, 1847.

The making of daguerreotypes was commenced by C. E. Hawes &
Brothers, at their rooms in Liberty Hail. Their productions were of
great merit and beauty.

The New Bedford J/i;-rf«rj' announced in strong head lines the re-
ception of news "twenty-eight days later from Europe."

Independence Day of this year (1847) was observed with great pomp
and parade, as it was the first city celebration. The day opened with
the usual round of salutes and ringing of bells. The public buildings
were decorated with flags and bunting. Excursion boats brought 1,700
visitors from Edgartown and Nantucket, and hundreds of others came
from surrounding towns. At 10 o'clock a procession was formed at the
City Hall under the marshalship of Gen. James D. Thompson. The
New Bedford Guards, Capt. Seth Russell, performed escort duty. In
line were the entire city government, civil officers, Masons and Odd
Fellows, Sons of Temperance, fire departments of New Bedford, Fair-
haven, and Nantucket, and a cavalcade of citizens. The Citizens' Band
furnished music. An oration was delivered by J. A. Kasson, in the
North Christian Church. The festivities closed with a brilliant display
of fireworks, attended by 10,000 people.

On May 18, 184S, occurred the Dudley Davenport fire, so-called,
which destroyed about $30,000 worth of property. The fire com-
menced at 10 o'clock in the evening, and was one of the fiercest ever ex-
perienced in our history.

At this period there were thirty miles of streets in the settled portion
of the city, twenty of which were graded, curbed and flagged. It is a
fact worthy of record that but few cities in New England to-day are
better provided with flagged sidewalks than New Bedford, and the atten-
tion by the government to this feature in the early city life, did much

304 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

to accomplish this result. TJie important matter of sewerage also com-
manded the attention of the officials at this time. Public sewers w ere
constructed through portions of Union and Middle streets, in 1852 ;
through School, Kempton and Spring streets, in 1853; William and
Maxfield, in 1854; Hillman and Bush, in 1S55 ; Merrimac, Kempton,
Bedford, Third, and Sycamore, in 1857.

The Fourth of July, 1849, was celebrated with a grand procession,
Timothy Ingraham, marshal. There was an oration by H. G. O. Colby,
fireworks, and a torchlight procession of firemen.

The city was honored by the presence of Father Matthew, the great
apostle of temperance, in September, 1849. Several hundred signers to
the pledge were secured.

In the summer of 1849, the Asiatic cholera, that had been prevalent
throughout the country, made its appearance in New Bedford. Several
citizens died from the disease.

The New Bedford Horticultural Society, which was in a very flourish-
ing condition, held an exhibition in the City Hall in September. James
Arnold was president; Henry H. Crapo, chairman of committee on
fruits; Thomas A. Greene, chairman of committee on flowers.

Tuesday, August 6, 1850, was solemnized by funeral services in
memory of Zachary Taylor, late president of the United States. A
salute was fired by Boston artillery near the court- house, and an im-
pressive service was held in the North Christian Church. A long and
representative procession was formed at the City Hall at midday,
under the direction of Gen. James. D. Thompson, Maj. George A.
Bourne and Col. James H. Collins, acting as aids. These were assisted
by Col. David Baker and twenty-one other citizens. The militarj', fire
department. Masonic and civil societies took part. While the proces-
sion was moved, minute guns were fired, and the bells sent out their
solemn peals.

On the evening of July 21, 1852, a grand ratification meeting was
held in the William Street Baptist Church, in celebration of a new liquor
law. The edifice was crowded with the friends of temperance. Will-
liam J. Rotch, mayor of the city, presided and made an impressive
speech. The meeting was characterized by great enthusiasm, and reso-
lutions were adopted.

^^^/^zJ^-i^C^^^^^^y-J^ ,

BURNING OF LIBERTY HALL.

30s

March 3, 1853, the Free PubUc Library, located at 139 Union street,
was thrown open to the public. An exhaustive account of this institu-
tion will be found in a later chapter.

In 1854, on petition of 1,200 citizens, the " Point Road " was laid out
and graded eighty feet wide, at a cost of about $50,000. It was subse-
quently named French avenue, in honor of Rodnej- French, under whose
administration this important pleasure drive was opened to the public.
During the administration of Hon. George Howland, jr., in 1855, the
approaches to this popular highway were much improved.

Horatio A Kempton's lumber yard fire occurred on the night of Oc-
tober 18, 1854 November 9 the famous Liberty Hall building was
entirely destroyed. The Evening Standard of November 9, 1854,
contained the following :

•' At five o'clock this morning Liberty Hall building was discovered to be on fire. The
fire department was immediately on the spot, but their efforts were unavailing to save
the far-famed 'temple of liberty,' within whose hallowed walls freedom for all men has
so frequently been proclaimed, and from who.se tower the note of warning to the poor,
trerabhng fugitive from oppression has so often sounded. At about seven o'clock the
structure was destroyed. It had fretted away its short term of existence and witnessed
its last exhibition of impressive tragedy and mirth-provoking farce. The actors have
positively made their last appearance. The fire caught from a lamp in a transparency
in front of the restaurant, in the lower part of the building, that had been left burning
all night. From thence the flames were communicated to the building, and thence
ascended to the upper portion, between the wall and ceiling, and were consequently in-
viiible for some length of time. Being out of reach of water until it had gained strong
headway, it was impossible, from the combustible character of the building and the
scenery attached to the theater, to stay the progress of the flames. The occupants of
the building were as follows : B. C. Leonard, carpet store ; Bourne & Perry, shoe store ;.
City liquor store ; Davis & Allen, merchant tailoring establishment ; Isaac Quinnell.
restaurant ; Uncle Tom's Cabin, a restaurant of long standing, owned by Thomas T.
Allen ; Charles B. Hawes, daguerrean rooms ; Mechanic, No. 6, club room ; telegraph
office, Bennett R. Paine, operator. The Grotto restaurant, west of the building, and
Eli Haskell's house, on the north, were repeatedly on fiie, badly charred and scathed
by the fiery element and drenched with water."

I have gathered from various sources some facts about this building
which will prove interesting to the reader. The tract of land on which
it was located (northwest corner of Purchase and William streets), was
given by William Rotch, in 1795, to the First Congregational Church,
and a building was erected during the years 1795-97 by Manasseh

3o6 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Kempton, jr., and Eastland Babcock. It was occupied by the society
for public worship some time before its completion. It is said that one
of the pew-holders was so anxious to occupy his pew on the following
Sunday that he gave a carpenter a quart of brandy to saw open the pew
door. This was, however, long before the Maine law was projected and
while temperance movements were in their infancy.

The famous bell was purchased Feb. i8, 1796, of Capt Silas Jones,
of Nantucket. The money, $255, was raised by subscription, the largest
amount, $10, being given b\' Thomas Pope, and the next largest, $6,
by a colored man named Aaron Childs. It was a bell of remarkable
tone and clearness. In the November fire it was melted in the flames.
The metal was gathered from the ruins, and several of our townsmen
had tea bells and articles of ornament made from it, which are still held
as valuable relics of the old liberty bell.

During the excitement that thrilled the nation following the passage
of the infamous fugitive slave law, in 1851, and at the time Thomas
Simms was arrested and sent back into slavery from Boston, a rumor
became current in that city that the United States marshals were plan-
ning to visit our little Quaker city by the sea in J. H. Pearson's brig
Acorn, accompanied by United States Marines, to recover certain fugi-
tive slaves that were supposed to be in hiding, awaiting transit to Can-
ada by the underground railroad. The news was brought into town by
S. P. Hanscom, the New Bedford express rider, who rode all night,
arriving Sunday morning with the startling intelligence. It was not
long before the warning notes of the Liberty Hall bell rang out and
said in thunder tones to the affrighted colored people that their enemy
was near. The immediate cause for the alarm was that a strange ves-
sel was reported to be in the bay, and on this account Rodney
French 1 ordered the bell to be rung. Some of our citizens will vividly
remember the excitement that followed, for every one, especially the
colored people, felt that real danger was at hand. No officers, however,
made themselves known, and it is not certain whether they entered the
city or not. One thing is sure, that the reported presence of the vessel
was a mistake. The marshals would have assuredly met with a warm
reception had they put in an appearance. This is but one of many in-
teresting episodes that occurred during those days when it cost some-

1 Mr, French was an unswerving friend to the colored people.

THE HOWLAXD STREET RIOT. 307

thing to be an anti-slavery man. To illustrate the work going on in
the interest of the slave during that eventful period, I quote the follow-
ing from the Mercury, April 21, 185 i :

"Extradition ExTRAORniNARY. — We are pleased to announce that a very large num-
ber of fugitive slaves, aided by many of our most wealthy and respectable citizens,
have left for Canada and parts unknown, and that more are in the way of departure.
The utmost sympathy and UberaHty prevails toward this class of our inhabitants.' '

At the completion of the elegant stone church, corner of Union and
Eighth streets, in 1838, the old building was sold and became "Liberty
Hall," and was used for lectures, political meetings and entertainments.
From time to time several additions were made to the building on the
west end, and about 1846—47 stage and scenic properties were added,
and the hall became the principal place for theatrical representations.
It became chiefly noted as the place for lyceum lectures and for lectures
by the distinguished advocates of the cause of the slave. The mere
mention of the names of William Lloyd Garrison, Wendell Phillips,
Frederick Douglass, Stephen Foster, Theodore Parker, Parker Pills-
bury, and Henry Ward Beecher will call up the recollection of an era in
our history that was pregnant with the results aftecting the extinction
of slavery in the United States ; and it was in this hall that these ora-
tors poured forth their torrents of eloquence, argument, and invective.

On the evening of April 19, 1856, occurred the celebrated How-
land street riot, an event that must carry us back to the years 1826 and
1829, to find any parallel occurrence. It is somewhat remarkable that
the conditions that brought about the riot were kindred to those of the
two riots above mentioned. Our readers will remember in the descrip-
tion of those events that we found certain sections of our town infested
with a dangerous class of citizens, occupying dwellings that were moral
pest-houses, and with surroundings that were detrimental to the dig-
nity and good order of our community. In each case a murder had
been the prime cause that brought into existence the organized mob
In the riot we are now discussing we find a simple repetition of the
same condition of things. So that we may have an intelligent knowl-
edge of this affair, let us take a general survey of the place and the pe-
culiar circumstances of the event.

Howland street is a short street in the south part of the city, run -
ning east and west, parallel to and situated between Grinnell and Griffin

3o8 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

street, beginning at Acushnet avenue and running east to the river
front. In the years gone by, and especially at the time of the riot, the
eastern section was a noted resort for drunken sailors and evil-disposed
persons. Nor was this confined to Howland street, for South Water
and other intersecting streets partook of the generally bad reputation
They abounded in dance- halls, saloons, gambling dens, and brothels
When our ships came in from their long voyages, these abodes of in
iquity were in high carnival, fights and brawls were of frequent occur
rcnce, and it was dangerous to pass through this section after nightfall
It was no uncommon circumstance for persons to be knocked down and
robbed. Matters grew steadily worse and more uncontrollable, when
the climax was reached in a murder.

Early on a Sunday morning a man coming out of Benjamin Baker's
fish market, then located at the foot of Howland street, discovered the
the body of a man close to the water's edge. Supposing that he was
drunk, he called the attention of the bystanders to the danger from the
coming tide. What was their horror, on approaching the spot, to find
the man dead ; an ugly wound on his head showed with certainty that
he had been foully dealt with. The investigation that immediately fol-
lowed, under the direction of William O. Russell, coroner, revealed
several startling facts : that the man had been murdered ; that a
crushing blow on the top of the head was the immediate cause of death ;
that the man had been seen in the house No. 17 Howland street the
night before ; that the track of blood from the spot on the shore where
the victim was found was traced in direct and unbroken line to this
same house. All this was brought out clearly and positively ; but who
did the deed, and under what circumstances, was never found out, at
least by any official investigation. The name of the unfortunate man
•was Rogers, and he was a resident of the northwest section of the city.

Not long'after this event, another body of a dead man was found in
the " Long House," and though no bruises were found showing violence,
it was deemed necessary to have an inquest. The body was removed
to the boat builder's shop of R. C. Topham, where an investigation was
held, but without any satisfactory results. My readers can easily un-
derstand how intense the feeling became after two such tragedies.

A thrill of terror went through the community as these dreadful oc-
currences became known, and they became the all-absorbing topic of

PURCHASE STREET IN 1856.

YOUNG MECHANIC NO. 6 RETl

THE HOWLAND STREET RIOT.

309

conversation. But few days elapsed after the fruitless investigations,
when the preliminary arrangements were commenced which ended iw
a most complete organized mob. Several meetings were held in which
the plans were matured. Triangular pieces of white paper pasted about
the city gave the call to these gatherings. Whenever a red paper was
posted it signified danger. The date selected for the demonstration
was April 5, but the afifair was postponed because of the delay of the en-
gineers in moving the old hook and ladder truck to the Second street
house. The new truck, built by Joseph Brownell & Co., was to be
placed in the engine-house on Market street.

Let it be understood that the municipal authorities, with his honor,
George Howland, jr., at the head, were not lax in their efforts to main-
tain order; indeed his administration was conspicuous for the vigorous
enforcement of law

Just east of the house on the northeast corner of Howland and Second
streets, was a small, two-story house. No. 17. It was here that the
murdered man, Rogers, was last seen alive. The occupants of the house
were of the worst class, and the place was noted for being one of the
vilest on the street. Through an alleyway on the east of the house
and in the rear directly northeast stood what was known as the
Long House, a large building occupied by similar characters and used
for kindred purposes. On these two houses centered the demonstra-
tions of the mob.

Several weeks before the riot the streets were filled with rumors in
regard to something that was going to happen. At first it was not even
hinted where or when. Not many days elapsed, however, before
"Jerry" was announced as having arri\'ed in town. My information
regading him and the organization of which he was the acknowledged
head is one of the most reliable character, and the facts relating to the
finding of the murdered man on the shore were told me by the very
man who made the discovery.

One morning our citizens were greeted with bits of red paper, posted
everywhere through the city, bearing the significant words: "Fire!
Fire ! On Howland street ! Paint }'Our faces and look oiit for the police."
This was an appeal to more than 300 members of the organization that
the attack was to take place on the following Saturday night, April 19.

3(0 HISTORY OF XEW BEDFORD.

They met that evening on City Hall square, and, at an early hour, a
party of rioters took the old truck from the Second street house, pro-
ceeded to Howland street, and undertook to pull down the house, No.
17. Their efforts were unsuccessful, until about 9 o'clock, when a false
alarm of fire was raised and brought the whole force and an immense
crowd of people to the scene. The rioters now were in their greatest
strength. They proceeded to the vicinity of the house, quickly stripped
the carriage of the long hooks, and the work of demolition commenced.
One of these hooks was thrust into the front window, another to the
roof, and the house began to come down. The Long House in the
rear was the first to be set on fire, though both were soon in flames and
burning fiercely, while dense volumes of smoke filled the heavens.
Jerry mounted the ridgepole of No. 17 and directed the operations.

A thrilling episode occurred when this building was entirely wrapped
in smoke and flame. The roof fell in with a tremendous crash, carry-
ing Jerry with it, and it was for some time supposed he had perished in
the seething furnace. But he soon put in an appearance and continued
to direct operations. The fire soon spread to the next building east,
called the Block, but the damage here was slight. Any attempt on the
part of the engines to play on either of the first two buildings was de-
feated by cutting the leading hose. The fire department was promptly
on hand, but its operations were distinguished by apparent stupidity and
want of efficiency.

The Franklin, No. 10, was the first to arrive. Singular as it may
seem, the engine stopped directly over the reservoir cover and not a
man could find it. Nos. 5 and 6 came tearing through the streets, anx-
ious, of course, each to beat the other in getting first water, shoved their
suctions under No. lo, got water and played on — no, they didn't play
on the fire, for the reason above stated. All the engines of the depart-
ment were hindered from doing any service. The only instance where
they were at all effective was in putting out the fire in the Block. The
crowds of people were great, for the papers of the day mention the
number as at least 3,000. The police were present, but were helpless
in preventing the work of the rr^ob ; indeed the mischief had been ac-
complished before they were present in any force.

The City Guards, Capt. Timothy Ingraham, were ordered out by the
mayor, and marched to the scene, fully armed and equipped for serious

THE WATER STREET FIRE. 311

work. They halted on Second street, near Howland, and awaited or-
ders. By this time the rioters had dispersed, evidently satisfied with
the work accomplished, and the Guards were not called upon for service.
At midnight the crowds of people retired, and thus ended the famous
Howland street riot. Several persons were arrested, but their cases
never came to trial. The citizens of other notorious sections of the
city were badly frightened, and during the night outposts were sta-
tioned to give the alarm should the mob be seen approaching. The
city government took vigorous action to prevent further demonstrations
of this character. The military were underarms for several weeks, and
many of the engine companies were sworn in for special duty, but for-
tunately their services were not required.

At noonday on August 24, 1859, the greatest fire in our local history,
involving an immense amount of property, occurred on Water street,
north of Middle. It was past twelve, an hour when the shops and streets
were deserted, and the workmen were at dinner, when fire broke out
suddenly in the engine room of William Wilcox's planing-mill, on the
east side of Water street, on the same spot where now stands Tilling-
hast's mill. The structure was of wood and, in an instant, was envel-
oped in flames. A strong southeast wind was blowing at the time, and
the fire spread with great rapidity to the buildings north, leaped across
the street, even before the alarm was given, taking all the shops on the
west side of Water street clear to North street, and worked its way
steadily westward to Second street.

Meanwhile along the wharves the flames made steady progress, tak-
ing in their path all the buildings and their contents. Wilcox's lumber
yard was now one dense mass of flame, and the condition of things at
this time was appalling. But when the cargoes of oil stored in the
vicinity of Richmond & Wilcox's wharf took fire, and the ship John &
Edivard, lying at the head of the dock, was absorbed in the destruction,
the flames enveloping the entire vessel, and leaping upward to the top
of the masts, the scene was one of great impressiveness. The oil, at
this point, as it ran from the wharf into the dock, took fire, and at one
time the water for some distance out into the dock was covered with
burning oil, forming literally a sea of fire. Several ships in this dock
tied to the wharf had to be pushed out into the river in order to save
them from destruction.

312 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

The spectacle now presented was one of sublime grandeur. At the
north, mountains of black smoke were rising, tinged at the lower edges
with the forked flames that rose from the burning oil, while in the fore-
ground was the burning ship — at this moment in the last stage of de-
struction. At the south the burning lumber had reached its intensest
heat, and solid masses of flame shot high into the heavens. In the inter-
vening space were the standing chimneys, grim monuments of the fright-
ful disaster, and the burning ruins of what but a few hours before had
been hives of industry. Here and there might be seen groups of fire-
men at their work, defying the danger that beset them on every hand.

The houses on Second street were now in flames and the fire was
spreading with fearful certainty to the north, promising to cut a path
through the northwest section of the city ; and without doubt it would
have done so but for the decision of the authorities to blow up the
building on the northeast corner of Second and North streets. This
was quickly accomplished, and the stunning explosion that was heard in
every part of the city was the announcement to the affrighted citizens
that danger from that section was over. On the northwest corner of
North Water and North streets were stored under seaweed 14,000 bar-
rels of oil, valued at $200,000. To save this from destruction a num-
ber of citizens armed with big brooms made of brush, thrashed out the
burning cinders as they fell in great clouds. The fearful heat made
this task almost unbearable, and yet pluckily they stood to the work
and saved this large property. They were aided by the fire depart-
ment who kept the seaweed wet.

The bursting of so many oil casks sent rivulets of oil in all direc-
tions, much of it into the river, much into every sunken spot, and ponds
of pure spermaceti were formed in many directions. When the confla-
gration was under control the gathering of this oil became a lively busi-
ness. Empty oil casks were at a premium and every sort of vessel that
would hold liquid was brought into requisition. " Dipping ile" was a
very profitable business and was followed for a time, some persons get-
ting as much as forty barrels. It was subsequently bought by the oil
refining factories at about twenty-five cents a gallon.

At nightfall the fire had spent its fury and apprehensions of any fur-
ther disaster were allayed. Several engines were at work all night

THE WATER STREET FIRE.

313

playing upon the ru'ns. Ships Illinois, Coiigaree and Cozvper, lying in
the dock, were slightly damaged by fire, but were towed out of danger
by tugboat Spray The occasional explosion of the bomb-lances was
terrific and the reports were like those of artillery on the battle field.

The following buildings were destroyed : William Wilcox's steam
planing-mill, loss $14,000, no insurance ; Thomas Booth's sash, door,
and blind manufactory, upper story, loss $1,500, no insurance ; Ryder
& Smith's building and spar yard, totally destroyed, loss $3,000, no
insurance; Thomas Booth's carpenter shop, loss $1,000 ; all these were
on the east side of Water street. The flames now crossed the street
and burned Hayes & Co.'s mill for dressing staves, loss $2,500, no in-
surance; the second story was occupied by Charles and Edward Bier-
stadt, turning and sawing shop, loss $1,000, no insurance; the building
next north was Warren Hathaway & Son's, manufacturers of whaling
apparatus, mincing machines, etc., loss $7,000, insurance $2,600; in
the rear was a blacksmith shop, entirely destroyed. In these buildings
was a large lot of bomb- lances that exploded during the progress of
the fire, creating much alarm among the people; next north, building
occupied by Howland & Coggeshall, storage of casks ; second story, car-
penter's shop, G. & C. Brownell, loss $400 The flames then attacked
the lumber yard, sheds and buildings belonging to Thomas Booth, loss
$8,000, no insurance; John D Hursell, paint shop, in upper story of
building, loss $1,200, no insurance. Next in order came the three-
story building on the corner of North and Water streets, occupied by
Nathaniel H. Nye, ship chandler; second story, counting-rooms of
Messrs. Wilcox & Richmond, B. B. Howard, Edmund Maxfield, Rus-
sell Maxfield and David B. Kempton ; third story occupied by Charles
Searell, rigger; loss on building $3,000, Mr. Searell$500, no insurance.
To the west of the machine shop of Messrs. Hathaway was the cooper-
age of Howland & Coggeshall. Their entire loss was $3,000, no insur-
surance. Near this were two small dwellings that were destroyed.

The fire continued to spread to the west. The engineers blew up
the building on Second street at 1.30 o'clock belonging to Dennis Daly.
This effectually stopped the fire from going south. The next building
destroyed north of Daly's was the house belonging to Stephen N. Pot
ter, loss $3,000, no insurance. Then came the large cooperage of

314 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Hayes & Co. It was entirely destroyed, loss $8,000, no -insurance.
Following this a dwelling house owned by Wilcox & Richmond, loss
$1,200, no Insurance. Next, southeast corner of Second and North
streets, fish market of Gardner & Estes, loss $400, insured. The fire
then extended to the west side of Second street and destroyed a duel-
ling owned by Mrs. Ezra Smith, loss $3,000. Next, on the same side,
a house on the southwest corner of North and Second streets, owned
by D. R. Greene, loss $4,000, insurance $2,200. At 2 o'clock the en-
gineers blew up the dwelling house of Mrs. Joseph Maxfield on north-
west corner of North and Second streets, loss $1,500.

The above, embracing about twenty buildings, were destro\'ed, and
a large number of sheds, and 8,000 barrels of oil. The entire loss, as
recorded in the books of the Board of Engineers was $254,575 with
but $6,975 insurance.

This was the most disastrous conflagration our city ever experienced ;
and what made it especially sad was that the loss fell with such terrible
force upon a class of our most industrious and worthy citizens, many of
whom saw all the hard earnings of years in a few hours entirely obliter-
ated. Some not only lost their business, but their homes even were
sacrificed in the great disaster.

Hardly had the embers died out before there came an imperative de-
mand by the citizens for a more adequate protection of our city. The
newspapers took up the appeal, and " steam" became the popular cry.
The hand engine service fought the battle for all it was worth, but with-
out avail ; the beginning of the end had come. The scoffs and jeers of
the multitude of friends of the fire department under the old regime could
not stay the tide of progress. The steam fire engine rolled into town
one day, only a few months later. In less than a year following its ad-
vent, the hand engines began, one after another, to go out of service,
and the number of steam fire engines increased.

Thj following list shows the names and dates of the opening of a
large portion of the prominent streets of the city:

1847 — Walden, from Maxfield to Sycamore; Sycamore from Wal-
de 1 to County; Franklin, from County to Purchase ; Orchard, from
Hawthorn to Arnold.

1848 — Walnut, from Water to tlie river; Mill, from Hill to County ;
Arnold, from County to Orciiard ; Grinnell, from Counts- to contemp-

NE IV S TR EE TS — yECROLOG V.

315

lated Roniiey street; Pleasant, from Franklin to Pope street; Hatha-
way road, from Perry's Neck road to Smith Mills road; Nash road,
from Acushnet avenue to Perry's Neck road ; School, from Seventh to
County ; South Second to Griffin street ; Bonney,from Allen to Wash-
ington ; Hillman, from North Second to North Water.

1849 — Hillman, from Summer to Chestnut ; Cedar, from North to
Smith ; Elm, from Summer to Ash.

1850 — Pope, from County to Purchase ; Parker street, from County
to wood land of Dr. A. Reed; Bush, from County to Orchard; Sum-
mer, from Kempton to Hillman ; Charles, from Kempton to County ;
Ray, from Pearl to County ; Merrimac, from Ray to Purchase ; Mill,
from Cedar to County ; North, from Cedar to County ; Hillman, from
Chestnut to Cedar; Cypress, from Kempton to Hillman ; First, from
Union to William; Chestnut, from Hillman to Smith; Fourth, from
Bedford to A. Gififord's land ; Union,, from Orchard to Cottage.

1852 — Parker street, from terminus to Oak Grove Cemetery; Crapo
street, Grinnell to South ; Sycamore street, from Chestnut to County ;
Sycamore street, from Pleasant to Walden ; Sycamore street, from
Chestnut to Cedar ; Pearl street, from Purchase to Pleasant ; Orange
street, from Grinnell to South ; Cottage street, from Hawthorn to Bed-
ford ; Pleasant street, from Franklin to Merrimac ; State street, from
Willis to Franklin ; Forest street, from County to Bonney.

1847 — October 19, John Taber, aged 75 years, a citizen of Fair-
haven ; December 26, Abraham Shearman, a distinguished Friend.

1 849*r— January 8, Ephraim Delano, aged 79 years, a citizen of Fair-
haven ; February 6, Mannasseh Kempton, aged 83 years; April 30,
Robert Wait, aged 73 years; November 9, Capt. John Howiand, aged
73 years; November 10, Capt. David Jenney, aged 82 years.

1850 — January 23, Capt. David Brayton, aged 66 \'ears ; January
29, Capt Noah Stoddard, aged 95 years, a citizen of Fairhaven, a
soldier of the American Revolution who rendered distinguished service
to his country ; April 19, Cornelius Grinnell, aged 92 years, an eminent

3i6 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

citizen; June 28, Desire Howland, aged 81 years; October 22, James
Hathaway, aged 60 jears

1852 — October 10, John Howland, aged 70 years.

1853 — April 19, William Tallman, aged 92 years; December 30,
John Avery Parker, aged 84 years, one of the most influential citizens
of his day.

CHAPTER XIX.

NEW BEDFORD IN THE CIVIL WAR.

Loyalty of New Bedford — Early Response to the First Call for Troops — Depart-
ure and Service of the City Guards — The Roster — Harbor Defences — The Ladies'
Relief Society — Company D, Twenty-third Regiment — Fifth Battery — The Stone
Fleet — The Thirty-third Regiment — The Thirty-eighth Regiment — The Third Regi-
ment M. V. M. — The Fifty-fourth Regiment — New Bedford's Maritime Losses-
Company B, Third Heavy Artillery — Company B, Fourth Cavalry — The Fifty-eighth
Regiment — Peace — The Assassination of President Lincoln — The Soldiers' and
Sailors' Monument — New Bedford in the Navy — Lieut. VV. P. Randall and the Cuin-
herlatid — Thomas Almy of the Wacluisett — The Tccumseh Incident — Naval Officers
from New Bedford.

IT is not within the scope of this book- to discuss the causes that led
to the civil war, nor to record the national events that characterized
the four years' conflict. The story has probably been written more
thoroughly and exhaustively than that of any war in the world's his-
tory. Every State in the Union has in its archives complete records
concerning every regiment, company, and soldier. They contain relia-
ble information relating to all matters regarding the army and navy.
The innumerable military organizations throughout the country have
preserved the experiences of their members, and the thrilling stories of
camp and field. These, with the official documents and records in the
possession of the national government, form a vast treasure house of
historic material relating to the civil war.

It remains for this work to briefly enumerate the organizations from
New Bedford that one after another responded to the nation's call for
defenders, and to note the more prominent local events that relate to

THE DEPARTURE OF THE GUARDS. 317

the great rebellion. The echoes of the enemy's guns fired against Fort
Sumter were heard all over the land and roused the patriotism of every
loyal heart. The call to arms was promptly responded to by thou-
sands of citizens who were ready and anxious to render service to their
country. The old Bay State, true to her record in the past, stood in
the front rank with the loyal States in furnishing her quota of the
75,000 volunteers first called for by Abraham Lincoln. New Bedford
acted promptly ; and on the morning of April 16, 1861, four days after
the attack on Fort Sumter, the New Bedford Guards, Company L, Third
Regiment Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, stood in line in front of City
Hall, to receive the tributes of praise from eloquent speakers, and an ova-
tion from an immense throng of citizens, who crowded the square and
adjoining streets. Ex -Gov. John H. Clifford made a touching and elo-
quent address to the soldiers. His words were full of lofty patriotism, and
they stirred the loyalty and enthusiasm of soldier and citizen. His
closing words to the company were :

" Go in peace about your families ; your fellow citizens will see to it
that those you leave behind shall want for nothing while you are gone.
We shall hear from you on the field of duty, and that not one has failed,
wherever he may be. God keep you safe under His care, and bring
you back with untarnished glory, to be received by your fellow citi-
zens with hearty joy and honor."

The solemn and impressive exercises closed with a fervent prayer by
Rev. John Girwood.

At the invitation of Govenor Clifford, a large numberof citizens formed
in line, and, to the inspiring music of "Yankee Doodle" by the band,
escorted to the station the New Bedford City Guards, every man of
them a volunteer. Thus went the first of the thirty-two hundred men
furnished by the city of New Bedford during the war, a surplus of
eleven hundred and ten men over and above all demands from the
United States government. The patriotism of the community was
thoroughly aroused and found expression in fiag raisings and in similar
demonstrations. Physicians offered their gratuitous services to the
families represented in the membership of the City Guards, and the
warmest sympathies of the community were supplemented by practical
action. The Guards arrived in Boston at niidda\' in a drenching rain.

3i8 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

and were escorted to the United States Hotel, where they were enter-
tained by Horace Scott and other New Bedford friends. On the 17th
they joined their regiment and passed in review at the State House, re-
ceiving the ovations of an immense crowd of citizens gathered to do
honor to the departing soldiers. They took their departure for Fort-
ress Monroe the next morning in the steamer 5. R. Spaitlding, where
they arrived on the 20th, and marched into the fort at 11.30 o'clock,
A. M. After a few hours' rest, and a oollation of crackers and cheese,
the regiment at 3 o'clock marched on board the steam frigate Pawnee
and were conveyed to Norfolk that evening, where the men took an ac-
tive part in destroying the navy yard, to prevent it falling into the
hands of the enemy. Ten thousand sixty-four pound balls were thrown
into the river, guns were spiked, and many buildings destroyed. On
the 24th the regiment was mustered into the United States service, and
entered with enthusiasm upon the routine life at the fort.

The New Bedford soldiers were made happy on May i by the arrival
of Stephen A. Tripp, State agent, with letters, clothing, and gifts from
home. On the 8th, $600 from Edward C. Jones and $80 from the
ladies were distributed to the Guards. The three months' service of the
City Guards was confined to duties in the fort, and to picket duty in
its vicinity.

The records reveal many interesting events that took place in the
fort during their short term of service. On the first Sunday the Guards
voted to hold weekly religious services, and they were inaugurated at
once. For want of a regular chaplain, Lieut. A. S. Cushman officiated
" in the capacity of presiding elder." Runaway slaves daily came into
the fort, seeking and obtaining protection. On May 27 thirty-three of
these people were embarked for Newport News. July 4 was recognized
by a flag-raising, and the stars and stripes were flung to the breeze
amid the cheers of the soldiers and the booming of artillery.

July 8 a detachment of New Bedford soldiers under Sergeant Samuel
C. Hart was detailed to throw up breastworks, and the sergeant found
himself in the novel position of a slave overseer. Sixty runaway slaves
were sent him to assist in the work. The thermometer stood at 1 10°.
Many of the Guards were overcome with the heat and returned to quar-
ters. Thursday, July 23, was the last day of enlistment, and the regi-

RETURN OF THE GUARDS. 319

ment embarked in the steamer Fanny for home. Their departure was
signaHzed by the hearty good wishes of their companions in arms.
The steamer passed Minot's Ledge at 5.30 o'clock on the morning of
the 19th, and the troops landed at the wharf in Boston at 7. The reg-
iment went into camp at Long Island, Boston Harbor, and was mus-
tered out of service on Monday, July 22. On the 23d, under the escort
of the Second Battalion of Rifles, Major Newton, the regiment pro-
ceeded to Boston Common, where it passed in review and was dis-
missed. The City Guards returned to New Bedford on the evening
train and were greeted with salvos of artillery, and with the warm wel-
come of friends who met them at the station. Escorted by companies

A, B, C, and D, Home and Coast Guards, they marched to City Hall,
where they were addressed in complimentary speeches by Mayor Isaac
C. Tabor and Hon. John H. Clifford. At the close of these, they pro-
ceeded to the armory, where the company in line received a few words
of commendation from its commander With rounds of cheers for
Captain Ingraham, First Lieut. James Barton, Second Lieut. A. S.
Cushman, and for the Home and Coast Guards, the New Bedford City
Guards were dismissed. This ended the service of the first company of
volunteers from New Bedford.

Among the field and staff officers of the Third Regiment of Infantry
M. V. M., belonging in New Bedford when mustered into service April
23, 1861, were David W. Wardrop, colonel; John H. Jennings, major ;
Alexander S. Holmes, surgeon ; Johnson Clark, assistant surgeon ;
Austin S. Cushman, adjutant; Albert C. Maggi, sergeant-major ; Fred-
erick S. Gifford, quartermaster-sergeant.

Line officers. Company L, New Bedford Guards: Timothy Ingra-
ham, captain; James Barton, first lieutenant; Austin S. Cushman,
second lieutenant ; Samuel C Hart, first sergeant ; William M Bates,
Elislia Doane, Thomas S. Palmer, sergeants ; Nathan B. Mayhew,
Walter D. Keith, Timothy D. Cook, jr., Anthony D. Lang, corporals.

Privates, William M. Bates, Daniel A Butler, Frederick S. Gifford,
Walter D. Keith, George Barrows, John E. Henshaw, James H. Hath-
away, Thomas Martin, A. C. Maggi, John H. Babcock, Joseph E Nye,
Augustus Arnaud, William E. Manchester, Charles B, Walker. Nathan

B. Mayhew, Aaron Upjohn, jr., Eliphalet H. Robbins, Sanford M.

320 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Robinson, William H. Sisson, Frank Herley, Isaac C. Hart, George H.
Freeman, Franklin S. Herley, Hosea C. Clay, Edward R. Richards,
Daniel W. Hall, Ingersoll B. Endicot, Edward L.Pierce, Timothy D.
Cook, jr., Jonathan W. Davis, Warren Moore, Charles West, Thomas C,
Allen, jr., Ezra K Bly, William G. Davis, Peleg W. Blake. George T.
Sears, Charles H. Tobey, John P. Hood, Ira S. Negus, Timothy W.
Terry, Franklin Tobey, jr.. Edward Hicks, William H. Allen, George
H. Chase (drummer), William H. Taylor, jr., Henry A. Wilcox, Isaac
H. Barrows, Roland L. Hillman, Charles Grand, Josiah B. Hamblin,
James Skinner, Rollins H. W. Carnes, George P. Sisson, William H.
Salisbury, Charles N. Avery, Charles H. Nevins, Owen P. Conley, Eli-
sha Doane, Anthony Lang, Charles M. Collins, Thomas S. Palmer, Seth
A. Wilcox, Andrew W. Russell, Owen Brady, Jonathan M. Rix, A. W.
Young, George P. Lee, Harrison O. Thomas, Pardon A. Davis, Anson
E. Ferris, George W. Hunt, H. Nye, Frank Staples, George S. Palmer.

April 17, the day following the departure of the City Guards, a pat-
riotic meeting was held in City Hall, Col. C. B. H. Fessenden pre-
siding, and the immense throng of citizens was addressed by Hon.
Thomas D. Elliot, Hon. John H. Clifford, Hon. Rodney French and
others April 19 the city council, in response to the action of this
meeting, appropriated $5,000 for the benefit of the soldiers who had
already departed for the South.

The menacing character of the rebel cruisers that already were upon
the ocean occasioned much uneasiness, and it was feared that New
Bedford would receive a visit from them. Means for defense were at
once begun. A sand battery on Clark's Point was thrown up April 27,
and three twenty four pounders were mounted. Fort Phcenix was put
in good condition and the barracks renovated. While these operations
were in progress, companies of home and coast guards were being or-
ganized. May 4 Company A, Capt, Henry F. Thomas; Company B,
Capt. William S. Cobb ; Company C, Capt. George A. Bourne ; Com-
pany D, Capt. B. Ewer, and an artillery company, Capt. JohnB. Hyde,
were organized under the command of Gen. James D. Thompson.
Company D belonged to Fairhaven. The duty of this corps was to
guard the coast and garrison the forts. A detachment from one of the
New Bedford companies was placed in Fort Phcenix May 4, and one at

LADIES' RELIEF SOCIETIES. 321

Fort Taber (for that was the name given the sand battery on Clark's
Point, in honor of Mayor Isaac C. Taber) on May 11. A vigilant watch
was maintained day and night of vessels approaching the harbor. An
appropriation of $5,000 was made by the cit\' government on July 29
for the maintenance of the home and coast guard.

The Ladies' Soldiers' Relief Society was formed soon after the de-
parture of the City Guards, and their beneficent work was at once
directed to the immediate wants of this company, Quantities of cloth-
ing and hospital stores were sent to them. This was but tlie beginning
of the patriotic work of this society, and its record during the war re-
dounds to the honor of the city. The official statement says it donated
for the relief of the soldiers upwards of $20,000 in money ; in cotton
cloth and flannel, $4,000, and in hospital stores to the amount of $6,000.
The following are some of the articles contributed : Condensed milk,
preserved fruits, jellies, pickles, farina, maizena, tamarinds, lemons, dried
apples, tea, coffee, cocoa, 1,116 bottles of wine, 423 bottles of brandy,
1,130 bottles of blackberry brandy and syrups, 345 bottles of port wine^
large contributions for the Thanksgiving dinner and Christmas trees at
Portsmouth Grove Hospital, besides bushels of lint and bandages. The
Society for the Comfort and Relief of Our Soldiers in Hospitals furnished
among other things, 5,904 flannel shirts, 3887 pairs of drawers, 4,573
pairs of woolen socks, 1,790 towels, 94 coats, "]€) waistcoats, I20 collars,
1,000 handkerchiefs, 368 cravats, 314 dressing-gowns, 1,837 pocket
handkerchiefs, 300 pairs of trousers, 148 napkins, 679 pairs of slippers,
265 pairs of woolen mittens, 524 blankets, 515 sheets, 673 pillows, 750
quilts, 988 canes, and 1,280 woolen undershirts. The ladies of New
Bedford began this work early in the war. They held a meeting for
organization on the iith of April, 1861. Mrs. Joseph C. Delano was
chosen president, Mrs. Lawrence Grinnell, vice-president, and Mrs.
William Eddy, secretary and treasurer. In addition to the above con-
tributions, $500 were given by a lady to pay soldiers' wives for sewing.
Contributions were also sent to the St. Louis and Baltimore Soldiers'
Fairs, and tables were furnished at the New York and Boston Fairs.

The city authorities were active in giving all possible aid in the en-
listments for the army, and were lavish in their financial support of all
war measures. On September 5 Mayor Isaac C. Taber was authorized

32 2 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

to organize companies for the national army with bounties for each
member of $15. November 20 $1,500 were appropriated for State aid
to soldiers' families, and December 15 $5,000 for tlie payment of sol-
diers' bounties.

In October, 1861, Company D, Twenty-third Massachusetts Infantry
was raised in this city for three years' service. It was largely composed
of New Bedford n)en. The following officers were in command when
the company departed for service : Captain, Cornelius Howland, jr.;
first lieutenant, Samuel C. Hart ; second lieutenant, Anthony Lang.
The regiment left Lynnfield, November 11, 1861, and embarked in
steamers State of Maine and Metropolis for New York. They arrived
and went into camp at Annapolis, November 16, 1861. On January 9,
1862, the regiment embarked onboard the gunboat //?/.s-xr«;- and schooner
Highlander for Fortress Monroe. A violent gale on January 12 sepa-
rated the vessels, and with much difficulty and danger the regiment
reached Pamlico Sound, where the vessels remained at anchor nearly
two weeks. The furious winds made it unsafe to send boats to the shore,
and the men were placed on short allowance of both food and water.
They joined the fleet of sixty vessels to accomplish the reduction of
Roanoke Island. On the 7th the gunboats began their attack on the
rebel fleet and on the forts of Roanoke Island. Later in the day the
Union forces commenced landing, the Twenty-third Regiment being
the first to reach the shore. The engagement lasted several hours, when
the enemy capitulated at 4 o'clock. Three thousand persons, 2,000
stand of arms, and three shore batteries with forty guns were captured.
General Burnside, in his order issued February 14, thanked the Massa-
chusetts troops for their gallant conduct and " Roanoke, February 8,"
was authorized to be inscribed on their banners. Thus early in the war
did the New Bedford soldiers of this regiment receive their first baptism
of fire.

The regiment took part in the capture of Newbern, March 16, 1862,
in which it lost seven men killed in action and forty-seven wounded.
October 30, 1862, Company D, the New Bedford company, with four
others of the regiment, took part in a raid up the Neuse River. At
Swift's River, the cavalry, artillery and baggage trains, the whole force
under the command of A'lajor- General Foster, marched' through a sec-
tion of North Carolina, embracing Washington, Rawles Mills, Williams-

TWENTY-THIRD REGIMENT. 323

ton, Hamilton, Tarboro, and Plymouth. The expedition was gone thir-
teen days and captured fifty prisoners, four hundred horses and mules,
and a hundred wagons. November 14, 1862, the regiment participated
in the battle of Kinston, in which it took sixty prisoners belonging
to the Twenty-third South Carolina Volunteers. November 16 it en-
countered the enemy at Whitehall. This proved a serious affair, for,
says the account, " the enemy poured the lead and iron into us like rain."
The regiment was under steady fire for two hours and lost thirteen killed
and fifty-four wounded. On the march back to Newbern, " owing to
the bad quality of shoes, a great many marched part of the time bare-
footed over the frozen and icy roads." During the year 1863 the
Twenty-third Regiment was doing loyal service, frequently changing
camp, and participating in occasional expeditions. June 26 the New
Bedford company was sent to F"ort Spinola, near Newbern, for garrison
duty. The regiment did service in defending Wilcox Bridge, and en-
countered the brisk fire of the enemy at this point. In the latter part
of October the regiment left Newbern and sailed for Fortress Monroe,
where it went into camp and spent the early winter months.

In 1864 the Twenty- third Regiment took part in the battle of Arrow-
field Church, and in the ill-fated movement towards Richmond that
ended so disastrously at Drury's Bluff. It suffered severely in this en-
gagement, having thirteen killed, twenty six wounded, and fifty-one
made prisoners, thirty- seven of whom died in prison. In 1865 it partic-
ipated in several engagements before Richmond. The full time of serv-
ice expired June 15, and the Twenty-third Regiment was mustered out
of service at Readville, July 12, 1865. Colonel Raymond, who com-
manded the regiment, said of the men : " Their excellent conduct while
in camp or garrison, their coolness and bravery under fire, their vigilance
and fidelity at all times displayed, entitle them to the highest praise."
Inscribed on their regimental flag are the battles of Roanoke, Newbern,
Rawles Mills, Kinston, Goldsboro, Wilcox Bridge, Winton, Smithfield,
Heckman's Farm, Arrowfield Church, Drury's Bluff, and Cold Harbor.

FIFTH BATTERY.

The artillery company organized for coast defense at New Bed-
ford in the summer of 186 1 was the nucleus of this battery. A large

32+ HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

proportion of its officers and members were New Bedford citizens. At
the time when it left Camp Massasoit, Readville, December 25, 1861,
its officers were : Captain, Max Eppendorf New Bedford ; first lieuten-
ants, George D. Allen, Maiden, John B. Hyde, New Bedford ; second
lieutenants, Robert A. Dillingham, New Bedford, Charles A, Phillips,
Salem; quartermaster- sergeant, Timothy W. Terry, New Bedford. Its
armament consisted of four rifled six-pounders and two twelve-pounder
howitzers. These were exchanged for three inch guns during the win-
ter of 1862.

The battery went into Camp Duncan, Washington, December 27. In
January, 1862, many changes were made in its officers. Captain Eppen-
dorf resigned. Lieutenant Allen took command, and the other officers
were promoted in succession. Sergt. Henry D. Scott was advanced to
second lieutenant.

In February the battery marched to Hall's Hill, Va., and was as-
signed to Gen. Fitz John Porter's division. In March it went into camp
near Fortress Monroe, where it awaited the movement of the army
against Richmond. In April it took part with Gen. Fitz John Porter's
division in the advance on Yorktown. It performed picket duty on the
Chickahomin}- during the month of June, and took part in the battle of
Gaines's Mills June 27. In this battle the Fifth Battery was attached to
General Butterfield's Brigade. James T. Bowen, author of " Massachu-
setts in the War," says : " About the middle of the afternoon it took
position on a hill, where it assisted in repulsing several advances of the
enemy, and then changed location to serve with the brigade in covering
the retreat of the Union army across the Chickahominy. This it did
faithfully, checking the pursuit with discharges of canister, but in with-
drawing could only bring off two guns, the horses of the others being
killed. The loss in men was two killed and three wounded. With the
two guns the battery was engaged in the battle of Malvern Hill, July i,
being placed first at the left, arrd afterwards on the right. The effect-
iveness of the battery in this engagement may be estimated from the
fact that with these two pieces 250 rounds were fired."

In July the battery was temporarily dissolved, and the men were dis
tributed among other organizations. In October, 1862, it was re-or-
ganized, under the command of the following officers: Captain, Charles

THE FIFTH BATTERY.

32s

A. Phillips ; first lieutenants, Henry D. Scott, New Bedford, Frederick
A. Hull, Cambridge; second lieutenants, Peleg W. Blake, New Bed-
ford, Joseph E. Spear, Quincy. In was attached to the Fifth Corps,
and in December participated in the unsuccessful attack on Fredricks-
burg. It shared in the " mud march " in January, 1863, and in the bat-
tle at Chancellorsville in May. With the artillery reserve, it was sum-
moned to Gettysburg in July, and assisted in repulsing the great attack
of the Confederate forces. During the two days' fight it lost seven men
killed (or died from wounds), and thirteen were wounded, including
Lieut. H. D. Scott, who was shot through the face while directing the
removal of a gun from the field. He was again wounded in the Mine
Run campaign in November.

The battery went into winterquarters at Rappahannock Station, where
it remained till the opening of the spring of 1864. It took part in the
battle of the Wilderness on May 5, in the battle of Bethesda Church,
June 3, and in an attack on Petersburg, June 18. In the last engage-
ment Lieutenant Blake was killed. In August this battery took part in
repulsing the enemy in their attempt to regain the Weldon Railroad.
At the final assault on Petersburg, the Fifth Battery, under command
of Captain Phillips, had a part in the fiercest of the battle. Lieutenant
Page was detailed to take possession of the guns of Battery B, Sumter
Artillery, of Georgia, consisting of six twelve-pounders. The record
says: "These were worked by the brave men under Lieutenant Page
all day, though exposed to a fire of artillery and musketry, by which
Page and three of his little band were wounded." That day saw the
last shots fired by the Fifth Battery. It was mustered out of service
June 12, 1865. By orders from headquarters of the Army of the Poto-
mac, the battery was authorized to emblazon on its flag : Yorktown,
Hanover Court House, Mechanicsville, Gaines's Mills, Malvern Hill,
Second Bull Run, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Rappa-
hannock Station, Mine Run, Wilderness, Spottsylvania, North Anna,
Bethesda Church, Petersburg, Weldon Railroad, and Hatcher's Run.

THE STONE FLEET.

In the fall of 1 861 the United States Government purchased a large
number of old vessels, principally whalers, loaded them with stone, and

326 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

sank them in the channels of Charleston and Savannah, important ports
of the Southern Confederacy on the Atlantic coast. Many of the inlets
on the coast of North Carolina were closed to ocean traffic by this novel
method. Twenty-one Baltimore schooners were used in this case. The
principal operations of this so-called "Rat- hole Squadron" were, how-
ever, directed to the harbors of Charleston and Savannah. This work
supplemented that of the blockade squadron, and resulted, for a time, in
the practical closing of the southern coast against blockade-running.

The whaling vessel, from its peculiar model, seemed well adapted for
this enterprise, and so it happened that twenty-four of the forty-five
vessels of the fleet were bought and fitted at this port. The prepara-
tion of the ships was under the supervision of Messrs. Ivory H. Bartlett
& Sons. Capt. Rodolphus N. Swift was the general agent, and Capts.
James B. Wood and Fred A. Stall assistant agents.

The first fleet consisted of the following vessels : Barks Garland,
Commodore Rodney French, 243 tons ; Harvest, Capt. W. W. Taylor,
400 tons; Leonidas, Capt. Joseph W. Rowland, 200 tons; Amazon,
Capt. J. S. Tripp, 336 tons; Cossack, Capt. John D. Childs, 350 tons;
Frances Henrietta, Capt. Michael Cumisky, 381 tons, and the Herald,
Capt. A. H. Gifford, 346 tons. Ships Maria Theresa, Capt. T. S. Bailey,
425 tons; Archer, Captain Worth, 380 tons; South America, Capt.
David G. Chadwick, 550 tons; Courier, Capt. Shubael F. Brayton, 350
tons; Kensington, Capt. B. F. Tilton, 350 tons; Potomac, Capt. Thomas
Brown, 350 tons ; L. C. Richmond, Capi. Martin Mallory, 306 tons;
Rebecca Simms, Capt. J. M. Wells, 425 tons; and American, Capt. W.
A. Beard.

The wharves were alive with gangs of workmen engaged in fitting the
vessels for their southern voyage. As about 7,500 tons of stone were
required, for which a price of fifty cents a ton was paid, the farmers in
the suburbs found a profitable use for their stone walls, and many were
pulled down and sold for this purpose. The highways were gleaned of
cobble stones and refuse granite ; and constant processions of loaded
carts found their way to the river front with their contributions toward
paving the channel of Charleston harbor. Loads of provisions were
stowed in the ships, and everything hastened to completion, so that the

THE STONE FLEET. 327

fleet might be in readiness to sail when orders were received from the
Navy Department. By November 15, 1861, the "Stone Fleet" was
at anchor in the lower harbor, with crews on board. The captains of
the vessels reported every morning to the agent, and the expedition
was fully ready to sail for Dixie Land. Plump Thanksgiving turkeys
had been sent aboard for the officers of each vessel, a generous donation
from Messrs. Bartlett & Sons.

At 7 o'clock on Wednesday morning, November 20,sealed instructions
were received by Commodore French, with orders to proceed to sea.

Agents and Capt-ilns of the Stone Fleet that Sailed November 20, 1S61.

The signal gun was fired, anchors weighed, and the fleet passed down
into the bay. The garrison at FortTaber saluted with thirty- four guns,
and the fleet replied gun for gun. Clark's Point was crowded with citi-
zens, who sped the parting fleet with cheers and waving handkerchiefs.
The patriotic keeper of the lighthouse on Dumpling Rock fired a signal
gun. The revenue cutter Varina, with a large company on board,
escorted the fleet out of the bay. At 10 o'clock Pilot William O. Rus-
sell was discharged, and the vessels, under full sail, headed for the south.

328 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

The sealed instructions were opened on the 2ist, and it was found that
the fleet was ordered to Savannah, and to report to the commodore of
the blockade squadron.

Space forbids a detailed account of the voyage, which was favored
with good weather, except a lively gale on December 2 and 3. The
wind being from a favorable quarter, its violence only sent the vessels
at a booming pace toward their destination. The crews evidently en-
joyed the greatest liberty, and were free from the usual discipline which
characterizes government vessels. There were, however, one or two
exceptions. One captain insisted that the daily "washing decks"
should be observed, and so the crew was obliged to perform this duty,
much against their will. There being no sand on board, the captain
had blocks of granite brought on deck and pulverized into powder, for
a substitute. Another captain put his crew on limited rations, and
though an abundant supply was provided by the government, the jolly
sailors were put on regulation diet. Quantities of potatoes and other
vegetables were thrown overboard at the end of the voyage. Commo-
dore French, to give an appearance of dignity to flagship Garland,
mounted a formidable " Quaker " gun. It was made of a section of a
spar, painted black, and mounted 'midships. Just how much the
presence of this gun served to protect the fleet from attack is not re-
corded but the following significant memorandum was found in the
commodore's diary: "December 7, 1861. Passed a schooner which
eyed our big gun attentively, and kept ofif."

On the arrival of the fleet at Port Royal, December 1 1, it was found
that the authorities had changed their plans somewhat, and it was neces-
sary to alter the instructions. The vessels lay at anchor for nearly a
week, the crews spending their leisure time visiting one another and
making excursions on shore. Commodore Dupont, U. S. S. WasJibiirny
received the officers with great courtesy and showed them marked
attention.

The second fleet of New Bedford vessels sailed December 9. The
following is the list: Ships America, Capt. Henry B. Chase; William
Lee, Capt. Horace A. Lake ; barks India, Capt. Avery F. Parker ; Me-
chanic, Capt. Archibald Baker, jr.; Valparaiso, Capt. William Wood ;
Margaret Scott, Capt. Henry F. Tobey ; Majestic, Capt. Joseph Dim-

THE STONE FLEET. 329

mick. The}' arrived at Port Royal in due season, and joined the first
squadron.

The ships Harvest and Valparaiso were retained at Port Royal as
store ships. Most of the vessels found their way to Charleston harbor.
On Friday morning, December 20, the ships were towed to their various
stations by steamers Ottaiva and Pocahontas.

" The sinking of tiie fleet was entrusted to Capt. Charles H. Davis,
U. S N., whose plan for closing the harbor was to place the obstructions
on both sides of the crest of the bar, so that the same forces which cre-
ated the bar might be relied upon to keep them in their places ; also, to
place the vessels checkerwise, and at some distance from each other, so
s to create an artificial unevenness of bottom, resembling Wood's Holl.
This unevenness would give rise to eddies, counter currents and wliirl-
pools, thus making navigation extremely dangerous. The placing of
the vessels in the desired position proved a difficult undertaking. Many
of them sat very deep in the water, and much skill was required to keep
them from swinging away while being sunk. By ten o'clock the plugs
were all drawn, and every ship had sunk or was sinking. None disap-
peared wholly from sight, and the scene is described as a novel one
when the work was finished. Some were on their beam ends, some
down by the head, others by the stern, and masts, spars and rigging of
the thickly crowded ships were mingled and tangled in the greatest con-
fusion. Tliey did not long remain so. The boats which had been
swarming about the wrecks, picking up stores, sails, and whatever was
to be got, returning heavily laden, were ordered back to cut away
the masts. As they fell, the sound of heavy cannon echoed down
the bay, and for the next two hours the crash of falling masts was
accompanied by the same salute. The guns of Sumter were the requiem
of the fleet. I have frequently heard of masts going by the board on
ships at sea in a gale of wind, but never saw the deed performed till to-
day. It is certainly worth witnessing, where you have not the accom-
paniments of a howling gale, a wild mountainous sea, and a groaning
ship, leaking at every point beneath you. Under the circumstances
the cutting away of masts may afford a sense of relief, but none of grati-
fication or pleasure. But with a fleet of ships sunk across and block-
ading an important channel, leading to what was once a thriving city,.

330 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

but what is now the seat of the rebellion, and an object of just revenge,
the dismantling of the hulks, within sight of rebel flags and rebel guns,
is really an unalloyed pleasure. One feels that at least one cursed rat-
hole has been closed, and one avenue of supplies cut off by the hulks,
and anything that adds to efficiency of the work affords additional
pleasure.

" Most of the ships in sinking had listed to one side, and the masts,
of course, stood at an angle over their sides. The braces and shrouds
on the weather side were cut by the sharp axes of the whalemen, and
the tall masts, swaying for an instant, fell together with a loud crash,
the sticks snapping like brittle pipe-stems, close to the decks, and strik-
ing the water like an avalanche, beat it into a foam, throwing the spray
high into the air. For an hour or two this crashing, smashing sound
was heard on every side, and one after another the ships became mere
hulks upon the water.

" The scene presented in the harbor, when the work was done,
was novel and interesting. Here were sixteen dismasted hulks in
every position, lying across the channel — some on the port, others on
their starboard sides. Some were under water forward, others aft.
The sea swept over some of them, others stood upright on their keels
and spouted water from their sides, as the heavy swells raised them and
dropped them heavily down upon the sands again." i The work was
finally accomplished, and the sixteen vessels formed, at least for a
while, an impassable barrier to navigation. Here is the list ; Amazon,
America, American, Archer, Courier, Herald, Kensington, Leonidas,
Maria Theresa, Potomac, Rebecca Simms, L. C. Richmond, and Will-
iam Lee, all belonging to New Bedford, and the Fortune and Leonidas,
of New London. The remaining vessels from New Bedford were dis-
posed of at various points, a number of them being used for store ships
and temporary wharves. On January 8, 1862, the officers and crews of
the New Bedford ships were taken on board the Ocean Queen and sailed
for home.

The city government was constantly active in rendering all possible
aid to the prosecution of the war. July 10, 1862, it appropriated $7,500
10 establish a general hospital for sick and wounded soldiers, provided

■ Correspondent Xew York Tribune.

^^Jc^cA^-tr-t^i C (y(j:£l/(7u^>c^c?'-^-Y

THJRTY.TBIRD REGIMENT.

zz-^

the general government should " decide to locate one in the city." It
voted a bounty of $iOO to each volunteer for three years' military ser-
vice, and appropriated $26,000 for this purpose. The city alms house
was offered to the government for a hospital, and was considered capable
of accommodating 350 patients. This offer was not accepted. August
1 5 the bounty money for volunteers was increased to $250, and $20,000
was set apart for its payment. August 29, $200 bounty money was
offered to all volunteers for nine months' service. Twenty-five thou-
sand dollars was appropriated for this work. October 21 it made
further appropriations of $5,000 for the continued maintenance of the
home and coast guard and $20,000 for military bounties, which amount
was increased to $26,000, December 13.

THE THIRTY-THIRD REGIMENT M. V.

The Thirty- third regiment Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry was
mustered into service August 5, 1862. It had several commissioned
officers and one company (I) from New Bedford. Col. A. G. Maggi, in
command, was from New Bedford. The officers of Company I, at the
time when it left the State for the seat of war, were : Captain, Elisha
Doane ; first lieutenant, Jas. F. Chapman ; second lieutenant, Charles
H. Nye.

The regimental band attached to the Thirty-third was under the
leadership of Israel Smith, of New Bedford. It had attained a national
reputation for its excellent music, and was frequently called upon to per-
form on state occasions. The band was composed entirely of enlisted
men of the regiment, and so the members received no special remunera-
tion for their services.

The regiment left the State August 14, 1862, marched through Bal-
timore on the i6th and reached Washington the same day. It was
joined to General Siegel's Corps, and went into camp at Alexandria.
It shared in the weary march in November to Thoroughfare Gap. A
heavy snow storm prevailed, and the men were thoroughly exhausted
when the regiment returned to camp. November 22 .Siegel's Corps
marched toward Fredericksburg, over roads that were in wretched con-
dition, and aside from being poorly supplied with provisions, the men
were exhausted and worn out. These troops did not reach, the vicinity

33 2 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

of the engagement until after the unfortunate attack on Fredericksburg.
The wearing and exhaustive service required of the Twenty-third at so
early a stage in their military life was severe, but it was bravely en-
dured and served to prepare the men for their widely extended cam-
paigns. In February, 1863, the regiment moved to Brooks Station and
went into more permanent quarters.

The first battle of this regiment was at Chancellorsville, where the
casualties were five men wounded and two missing. The Thirty third
was honored in being one of the Massachusetts regiments selected to
support General Pleasanton's cavalry at the battle of Beverly Ford on
June 9, 1863. It shared in the Gettysburg campaign in July, and sup-
ported the Union batteries on Cemetery Hill. During July 2 and 3 it
was constantly under heavy artillery fire, and suffered the loss of seven
men killed and thirty- eight wounded. It gained praise from regular
army ofificers for the " unflinching steadiness with which it maintained
its position. Through the remainder of the fight it was constantl}' in
the front, and took a prominent part in repulsing ihe rebel attack on
the center." It took part in storming the rifle pits on Lookout Moun-
tain, October 28. The account says : "For this desperate work, the
brigade commander selected his own regiment and the Twenty- third
Massachusetts, the two numbering altogether but some 400 effective
men. At the word of command, the lines, in the best order possible
under the circumstances, clambered up the steep slope, through and
over the obstructions, until finally they stood facing the hostile works.
' Don't fire on your friends,' said some one through the darkness, and
the men of the Thirty- third, deceived, were led to give their regimental
number. The response was a terrible volley, delivered almost in their
faces, which killed and wounded nearly one- half their number. Tem-
porarily stunned and shocked, they retreated to the foot of the hill.
Adjutant Mudge fell dead at the first fire. Col. Underwood, with a
terribly shattered thigh, had fallen fatally wounded, it was supposed,
close to the hostile works, and among the dead lay many of the regi-
ment's bravest and best ; but the survivors were only momentarily re-
pulsed. As soon as possible the shattered line was re-formed, and
then, knowing what was before them, the undaunted men climbed once
more the deadly steep. This time it was the silent bayonet which did

THIRTY-EIGHTH REGIMENT.

333

the work. Up to, over, and into the entrenchments, the boys in blue
went resistlessly; the enemy was driven from his works, broken and
demoralized, and the stars and stripes waved in triumph. The civil war
saw no more heroic charge than this. The men of the Thirty- third had
captured a position defended by a superior force, which, according to
all military science, should have been impregnable against manj- times
the number of the defenders. The Thirty- third had twenty-four men
killed and fifty-three wounded in this engagement."

The regiment took part in the battle of Missionary Ridge, November
2 5, and formed a part of General Sherman's expedition in the battle of Re-
saca. The severity of this work may be judged from the fact that this
regiment lost two officers and seventeen men killed, and sixty-three
wounded. During the spring and summer the regiment was engaged
in several skirmishes and engagements, notably those of Cassville and
Dallas.

In September, 1864, the regiment was ordered to Atlanta, and was
detailed to guard the Confederate prisoners at the military prison on
Peach Tree street. While at this place Major Elisha Doane was pro-
moted to lieutenant- colonel, and had command of the regiment. The
regimental band, under Israel Smith, gave a number of concerts while
in the city that gave great pleasure to large audiences. In November
the regiment joined its brigade in Milledgeville and proceeded to camp
near Savannah. It participated in the battles of General Sherman's
army, and was mustered out of service June 11, 1865. The regiment
was accorded a most enthusiastic reception on its arrival in Boston, and
was served with a collation in Faneuil Hall.

THE THIRTY- EIGHTH REGIMENT INFANTRY

Was mustered in August 12, 1862, for three years' service; colonel,
Timothy I n graham ; lieutenant-colonel, William L. Rodman. The
line officers of Company H, when they left the State for the front were :
Captain, Thomas R. Rodman, of New Bedford ; first lieutenant, Julius
M. Lathrop, ofDedham; second lieutenant, Charles C. Howland, of
New Bedford. Subsequent officers of this company were : Timothy
Ingraham, jr., and Charles F. Shaw as first lieutenants.

334 ' HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

This regiment, to which were attached many New Bedford soldiers
(Company H was raised in this city), left Lynnfield for the seat of war
August 26, 1862, and went into camp at Baltimore, where it remained
until November 10. It sailed for New Orleans, via Fortress Monroe,
December 8, arriving off Ship Island December 13, and on January i,
1863, it was ordered into camp at Carrollton, four miles from New Or-
leans. April 9, with the rest of the Nineteenth Army Corps, under
Major General Banks, it started on the Western Louisiana campaign.
The Thirty-eighth was in the Third Brigade, Third Division, and was
under the command of Lieutenant- Colonel Rodman, Colonel Ingraham
being in command of the First Brigade, Third Division. The following
is an authentic account of the experience of the regiment, its hard
marches and continuous fighting, leading to the siege of Port Hudson,
in which one of the noblest of our citizens was killed :

"We came upon the enemy, strongly entrenched, at Bisland, on the
Bayou Teche, on the afternoon of April 12, when a lively artillery duel
commenced, which was kept up until dark. The next morning (13th) our
brigade crossed the bayou, and after a day's fight compelled the enemy
to evacuate the works, which were taken possession of next morning;
and then the pursuit commenced. We had six killed and twenty-nine
wounded on the 13th. Among the former was Captain Gault, Company
A. We pursued the enemy so closely that we were frequently enabled
to prevent the destruction of the bridges, which span the almost innu-
merable bayous of this section of the country We arrived at Vermilion
Bayou on the 17th and rested one day, during the rebuilding of the bridge
across it, and on the 19th we continued our forced march. On the 20th we
arrived at Opelousas, where we encamped until May 4, when we started
for Alexandria, arriving the evening of the 7th, and remaining there until
the iSth; then we started for Semmesport on the Atchafalaya, where we
encamped on the 19th. At 10 o'clock on the morning of the 2ist we took
up our line of march for Port Hudson. We reached the town of Mor-
ganza on the afternoon of the 22d, where we immediately embarked on
the river steamer Empire Parish for Bayou Sara. Here we landed, and
the same afternoon, amid a terrible storm, started for Port Hudson. On
the 2Sth and 26th we supported the Eighteenth New York Battery, and
protected the bridge builders at Sandy Creek, a few hundred yards from

THIR T\ --EIGHTH REGIMENT.

335

the extreme right of the enemy's w orks, when we were reh'eved by the
Third and Fourth Louisiana (colored) and were ordered to rejoin our
brigade, preparatory to the grand assault of the 27th.

" In this connection let me remark that the Thirty-eighth had the
pleasure of witnessing the admirable behavior of the first colored troops
under fire in this war, namely, the Third and Fourth Louisiana, May 26.
On the 27th we were ordered to support Duryea's Battery F, First
United States, which we did till about 10 o'clock A. M. when we volun-
teered in a charge with a few regiments of Grover's Division. VVe
charged over ravines and an abattis of felled timber to within about
150 yards of the works, when the severity of the enemy's fire compelled
us to seek such cover as we could find. Lieutenant-Colonel Rodman
was instantly killed by a sharpshooter, while in the act of giving a
command. On the 30th Major Richardson rejoined us and took com-
mand, although still unwell. There being some fear of an attack in our
rear, the Thirty- eighth, with other troops of our division, were marched
out to Clinton, starting on the morning of June 5 and arriving at Clinton
the 7th. The heat was so intense that many officers and men were sun-
struck, and for that reason the rest of the marching was done by night.
The enemy having left, we returned to Fort Hudson, arriving on the
9th. On the 14th of June another assault was ordered The Thirty-
eighth and Fifty- third Massachusetts were deployed as skirmishers,
and had the advance. We skirmished up into the ditch around
the works, and waited for the column of assault, but waited in vain ;
and we were obliged to remain there all day under a boiling sun.
Our loss was : Commissioned officers, one killed and five wounded ;
enlisted men, seven killed and seventy- seven wounded. Upon the
surrender of Port Hudson, July 8, two regiments from each
division were ordered to march in and take possession. The Thirty-
eighth was selected to represent the Third Division, but during the night
the Third Brigade was ordered to Plain's Store, about four miles in the
rear of Port Hudson, and we were ordered to go to them, where we re-
mained on picket until the afternoon of the I Ith, when we started for Baton
Rouge in charge of artillery and baggage. We arrived there early on
the morning of the 12th and remained in camp until the afternoon of the
1 5th, when we embarked on board the steamer St. Charles for Donaldson-
ville, where we remained in camp until the 31st. August i we moved

336 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

back to Baton Rouge, to the old camp of the Forty-ninth Massachusetts,
which was called Camp VV. L. Rodman, where we remained until
December 9, 1863."

From Lieut. Chas. F. Shaw the following account is obtained :
"Marsh 23, 1864, the regiment broke camp and left the city of Baton
Rouge, and was transported by boat to Alexandria. Here for a time
it was kept busy in drilling, unloading steamers, and on fatigue duty.
April 1 1 the regiment embarked on the Mittie Stephens and started on
the disastrous Red River expedition. While on this trip the boat was
fired on by guerrillas and one man was killed, and Lieut. T. Ingraham,
jr., and two soldiers were wounded. The regiment went into camp at
Grand Ecore, but remained only a few days, as General Banks's army had
met the foe, but the battle had resulted in favor of the Confederates.
So, on the 21st of April, preparations were made to evacuate our camps
and retreat to Alexandria. April 23 the regiment was fired into by the
rebel artillery in crossing Cane River, and later in the day a sharp bat-
tle took place while our troops were charging across a field, and in this
engagement the regiment lost two killed and eight wounded, among the
latter being Thomas E. Bliffins, now residing at Smith Mills. The reg-
iment arrived at Alexandriaagain on the 26th, and immediately went to
work with other regiments in constructing a dam, planned by Lieuten-
ant-Colonel Bailey of the Fourth Wisconsin regiment.

" The water in Red River was at a very low point, and most of our
gunboats were hard aground ; but by Bailey's fine engineering all our
boats were successfully extricated. May 1 1 we bade farewell to Alex-
andria and commenced our march toward the Mississippi river. The
enemy kept at our heels continually, and another engagement was pre-
cipitated at Mausura on the i6th. Thisbattle was essentially an artillery
duel, and proved to be the finest military spectacle seen in the Depart-
ment of the Gulf during the war. May 20 the regiment marched to
Semmesport, and for nearly two months suffered the intense heat of a
Louisiana summer in camp, near Morganza. July 3 the regiment em-
barked on board the steamer City of Memphis, and the next day, July
4, landed at Algiers (opposite New Orleans), went into camp and re-
mained until the 20th. On that day it embarked and steamed out of the
Mississippi into the Gulf of Mexico. July 28 the steamer arrived at

RETURN OF THE THIRTY-EIGHTH. 337

Fortress Monroe and, a few days after, the troops were transported to
Washington and thence went by rail to Harper's Ferry. During the
autumn of 1864 ths regiment participated in all the engagements in the
Shenandoah Valley under the leadership of that intrepid general, Sher-
idan, and in this campaign saw more real fighting than ever before On
the 19th of October, made memorable by Sheridan's ride, the regiment
lost heavily, and performed its share in turning a rout in the morning
to a decided victory in the afternoon. During the campaign in the
Shenandoah Valley the regiment suffered a loss of 120 men. In Jan-
uary, 1865, the regiment embarked on a transport, the destination of
which proved to be Savannah. During the balance of the service it
performed garrison and fatigue duty at Newbern, Morehead Cit)', and
Goldsboro, N. C."

The Thirty eighth Regiment was engaged in the following battles :
Bisland, Port Hudson, Cane River, Mausura, Opequan, Fisher's Hill,
and Cedar Creek.

May 4, 1865, the Thirty eighth went into camp again at Savannah.
Here it remained until June 30, and, the war being over, it embarked on
the steamship Fairbanks for home, arriving at Boston July 6. It went
into barracks on Gallup's Island, and on the 13th was paid off and dis-
charged from the service. By invitation of the cit\' of Cambridge,
where companies A, B, and F belonged, the regiment visited that
place and received a most gratifying reception and ovation.

Reception of Veterans} — " The returned members of Company H,
Thirty -eighth Massachusetts Regiment, whose names we give below, re-
ceived a hearty welcome upon their arrival home last evening. They
were escorted from the north depot by the City Guards, preceded by
the New Bedford Massachusetts band, with members of the celebrated
band of the Thirty third Regiment resident here, and these, preceded by
a cavalcade of citizens, marched to City Hall square Here were collected
the children of the public schools, with their several drum corps, their
pretty banners, and a liberal supply of bouquets. Clustered u]Don the
steps and in the space in front of the hall, with their neat uniforms and
show\- banners, the gilded mottoes upon which glistened in the setting
sun, they formed a most pleasing spectacle. As t-lie veterans approached.

338 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

handkerchiefs were waved by the children, and when the former halted
in front of the hall, they were greeted with hearty cheers and a shower of
bouquets from the little ones, who then sang, to the grand " Old John
Brown " tune, the song of welcome composed by James B. Congdon, esq.,
for the celebration on the 4th. Cheers followed from the children and
from the throngs of citizens with which the entire square was packed,
when the soldiers retired to the Guards' armory, laid aside their arms,
and then partook of a collation at the dining rooms of Messrs. Wing &
Brockway They subsequently assembled in the armory, and after
hearty cheers for Lieutenant Shaw and their old commander, Captain
Rodman, they retired to their homes."

The following are the names of the returned veterans :

New Bedford. — Lieut. Charles F. Shaw, commanding ; Sergeants
Benjamin Hillman, Henry Hillman ; Corporals John P. Brenning, Gil-
bert M. Jennings ; Privates Thomas Lapham, James F. Edgerton,
George S. Howard, Matthias H. Johnson.

Acushnet. — Sergeant George D. Bisbee ; Privates A. E. H. Brooks,
Orrin D. Perry.

Westport. — Peleg S. Borden.

Sandwich. — Corporal N. H. Dillingham.

Falmouth. — Sergeant George W. Swift; Corporal Reuben E. Phin-
ney ; Privates John B. Crocker, Henry O. Davis, Leonard Doty, Perry
W. Fisher.

F"airhaven. — Private Thomas Nye.

Middleboro. — Private James C. Reed.

Capt. Albert F. BuUard, of Company E, of New Bedford, returned
with Company H.

The following members of Company H were wounded during their
term of service : George F. Lincoln, Luther P. Williams, Albert F.
Ballard, T. Ingraham, jr., Isaiah B. Bullock, Thomas E. Blififins, James
N. Parker, George D. Bisbee, Benjamin Hillman, Perry W. Fisher, Will-
iam Phillips. Killed in action or died of wounds : Lieutenant Colo-
nel Wm Logan Rodman, Joseph H. Bly, Alonzo W. Leach, Augustus
E. Foster, Silas C. Kenney, J. M Lathrop. Taken prisoners: Henry
Hillman, also wounded ; Otis B. Phinney, Matthias H.Johnson, George
W. Swift, also wounded ; Peleg S. Borden, Arthur E. H. Brooks,

THIRD REGIMENT MIIITIA.

339

George Crabtree, Levi Pittsley, Edwin R. Pool, died in hands of the
enemy, and Patrick Honan, all captured October 19, 1864, except the
last. Deaths from disease : Leander A. Tripp, Peter C. Brooks,
George E. Hawes, Bartholomew Aiken, William Bentley, Hiram B.
Bonney, Samuel E. Dean, Timothy F. Doty, John Duiilap, George W.
Fish, Jehiel Fish, James Holmes, Benjamin Jenks, Ezra S. Jones, Shu-
bael Eldridge, jr., Charles G. Kempton, Horace E. Lewis, Walter T.
Nye, Jason S. Peckham, William Pittsley, Joshua Roach, James Ryan,
John W. Phipps. Received commissions : J. M. Lawton, jr., Edward
J. Anthony, as lieutenants in the colored troops ; Edward Bealy, as
captain in Louisiana Cavalry ; Albert F. BuUard, as captain Company

E, Thirty-eighth Massachusetts ; Elijah Swift, as quartermaster of reg-
iment; George A. Fletcher, as lieutenant in another regiment; Charles

F. Shaw, as first lieutenant in Company H, Thirty- eighth Regiment.

THIRD REGIMENT INFANTRY M. V. M.

Of this regiment. Companies E, F, and G were from New Bedford.
This regiment, which had rendered three months' service at the begin-
ning of the war, under Colonel Wardrop, was again recruited for nine
months, in October, 1862, under Col. S. P. Richmond.

The following New Bedford men were attached to his staff: Lieut. -
Col. James Barton, Quartermaster Bethuel Penniman, jr., Sergt.- Ma-
jor, Joseph E. Nye, Quartermaster- Sergt. Theodore A. Barton.

Company E — Captain, John A. Hawes ; first lieutenant, Wm. E.
Mason ; second lieutenant, James L. Sharp ; sergeants, Daniel A.
Butler, Joseph E. Nye, Charles H. Tobey, James C. Hitch, Isaac A.
Jennings ; corporals, John H. M. Babcock, Francis Herley, George R.
Paddock, Alexander M. Brownell, Frank H. Kempton, Henry H. Pot-
ter, Franklin K. S. Nye, Sylvester C. Spooner.

Company F. — Captain, George R. Hurlburt; first lieutenant, William
H. Allen 3d; second lieutenant, Jonathan W. Davis; sergeants, Pat-
rick Canavan, James H. Williams (Dartmouth), Frederick A. Plummer,
Joseph C. Brotherson, Charles H. W^ker ; corporals, Charles A. Gould,
James Smith (Edgirtown), Zacheus H. Wright (Acushnet), Andrew
Dexter, John H. Ricketson (Dartmouth), Frederick Hofifman, C. W.
Cleaveland (Edgartown), Henry Kohn.

340 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Company D. — Captain, William S. Cobb ; first lieutenant, Henry W.
Briggs ; second lieutenant, James L. Wilbur ; sergeants, Charles West,
William H. Chase, John W. Look, Abel Soule.|Roland W. Snow ; cor-
porals, Simeon Webb, Thomas H. Hammond, William G. Hammond,
Andrew Potter, William Eldredge, John L. Flynn, George W. Perry,
Ira P. Tripp.

The organization of the regiment was completed at Camp Joe Hooker,
Lakeville, and it left for Boston October 22, 1862, where it embarked
on transports Merrimac and Mississippi for Newbern, N. C, October
29. The men were supplied with Austrian rifled muskets. These arms
were of poor quality, and much dissatisfaction was felt because of it.
The regiment was at once put to drilling, and entered upon its nine
months' service. It performed picket duty at Newport barracks and at
Batchelor's Creek No. i. in November, and December 11 it joined the
expedition for Goldsboro, N. C. The troops were gone eleven days and
marched a hundred and fifty miles. They participated in the battles of
Kinston, Whitehall and Goldsboro, and were authorized by General Fos-
ter to inscribe these names and dates of the battles on their banner.

They performed efficient service in the last-named battle, and received
compliments from their brigade commander "for their bravery in tear-
ing up the railroad track while under fire, and their steadiness in sup-
porting Belger's and Morrison's batteries while repelling the brilliant
charge of the rebels under General Pettigrew, and also for its coolness
while re-crossing the creek, which had been flooded by the rebels."
Although the regiment was under fire for several hours during the day,
yet it was miraculously fortunate, its loss being but six men killed.

January 14, 1863, the Third Regiment M. V. M. was attached to
Col J. Jourdan's brigade, with which it continued during its term of en-
listment. It gained a high reputation for excellence in discipline and
drill, and received the compliments of its division and corps command-
ers. General Foster says: "The Third Massachusetts Regiment al-
ways obeys orders, and performs all its duties promptly and without
grumbling." Camp Jourdan was located near Newbern, and it was, by
reason of the diligence and persistence of this regiment, pronounced by
the medical director " one of the cleanest, prettiest and most hcelthy
camps near Neu bern, although formerly considered a very unhealthy

FORTY-FIRST REGIMENT. 341

locality." This regiment was engaged constantly in reconnoissances,
expeditions and marches, and the names of Deep Gully, Fort Ander-
son, Neuse River, Washington, N. C, and Blount's Creek represent some
of the places at which they did excellent service.

When the term of enlistment expired the regiment was escorted to
the station at Newbcrn by the One Hundred and Fifty- eighth New
York Volunteers, preceded by the band of the Forty-sixth Massachu-
setts. General Foster and Colonel Jourdan honored the column by a
standing review.

In Boston the regiment received a most cordial reception, and was
welcomed at the State House by Adjutant- General Schouler. June 22,
1863, it was mustered out of service at Camp Joe Hooker. The official
record says : " During the campaign the regiment was transported by
steamers and railroad more than 2,000 miles, and marched more than
400 miles over the swampy roads of North Carolina, most of it being
done during the most inclement season. It bivouacked upon the
ground, without shelter, when the water froze in canteens, and also
marched when the thermometer averaged 107 degrees in the shade.
During a portion of the time more than 200 men were furnished for
extra duty as mechanics, and a number were detailed as overseers of
'contrabands' and others."

FORTY-FIRST REGIMENT MASSACHUSEITS VOLUNTEERS.

The organization of the Forty-first Regiment of Massachusetts Vol-
unteers, of which Company A was raised in New Bedford, in August,
1862, was completed November 1, 1862, and the regiment was that
day mustered into the service of the United States for three years or
for the war. Company A was largely composed of New Bedford
men, and was officered as follows when it left the State : Captain, John
F. Vinal ; first-lieutenant, James W. Hervey; second lieutenant, Eliphalet
H. Robbins. The regiment went into camp at Lynnfield, Mass., until,
August 27, when it moved to camp E. M. Stanton, at Boxford, Mass.
It remained there until November 4, 1862, when it proceeded to New
York City, with orders to report to Major-General Banks; and it ihen
'went into quarters at Park Barracks, located on the site of the present

342 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

post-office. November 13 the regiment was transferred to Camp
Banks, on the Union Race Course, Jamaica, Long Island, and remained
there until December 3. December 4, 1862, it embarked on the
steamer North Star, having on board General Banks and staff, and after
a pleasant voyage arrived at New Orleans December 15. The next day
it proceeded up the river, arriving at Baton Rouge on the 17th, fol-
lowed by seven other ocean steamers, transports for the expedition, and
six gunboats. After a few shells had been thrown from the iron-clad
Essex, the rebels fled and the various regiments landed, under com-
mand of General Grover (General Banks having remained at New Or-
leans), and occupied the city. February i Captain Vinal was pro-
moted to major, and First Lieutanant Hervey was placed in command
of Company A. The regiment, besides garrison and picket duty,
made several excursions into the rebel lines, destroying bridges and
meeting with stubborn resistance from the enemy. On the 28th'of
March Grover's Division, to which the Forty- first was attached, pro-
ceeded by steamer to Donaldsonville, and from there marched through
the La Fourche country via Thibedeaux, Terre Bonne and Bayou Boeuf
to Brashear. After remaining here from April 4 to April 9, the regi-
ment went by steamer Arizona across Grand Lake, and reached the
bay of Indian Bend at noon of the 13th. The Forty-first was soon en-
gaged with the enemy's pickets, and the firing lasted until dark. On
the 14th it was engaged in battle at Irish Bend. It participated in the
raid on Avery's Island, Bayou Petit Anse, and assisted in the destruc-
tion of the saltworks and in corralling a large number of horses from
the enemy.

On April 20 Grover's Division reached Opelousas, having marched
from Baton Rouge, 300 miles. Here it performed provost duty, and
confiscated a sufficient number of horses from the residents of that territory
to mount the entire regiment. When it moved, May 11, to Barre's Land-
ing, horse equipments were furnished, and the command was thence-
forth known as the Forty- first Mounted Rifles. The official record
says : " During the month it was on duty at Opelousas and Barre's
Landing, it collected and sent to New Orleans via Brashear upwards
of 6,000 bales of cotton, large quantities of sugar, molasses, and other
products of the country, and at least 10,000 contrabands (men, women.

FORTY-FIRST REGIMENT.

343

and children), to work tlie government plantations in the La Fourche
country. This regiment set all tlie corn-mills in operation, thus fur-
nishing large quantities of meal to the troops and inhabitants, and feed-
ing the contrabands. It establisiied a free market for the benefit of the
poorer inhabitants, reopened the printing-office, and issued a daily-
paper. The regiment left Barrc's Landing May 21, in advance of a
wagon-train five miles long, and an immense number of contrabands.
The flanks and rear were covered by seven regiments of infantry and a
section of artillery, Colonel Chickering commanding the column.
About 7 o'clock P. M., I\Iay 25, near Franklin, the rear guard with the
train was attacked by about 2,500 Texas cavalry and 2,000 infantry.
Two or three companies of the Forty- first, including Company A, with
a section of Nimm's Battery, were sent to assist the rear guard. After
a struggle of about two hours, the rebels were repulsed.

The march to Berwick City occupied five days. Thence the regi-
ments were forwarded to General Banks "at Port Hudson, early in June.
Here the Forty-first was transformed into a permanent mounted regi-
ment, June 17, by special order No. 144, and for the rest of its service
was known as the Third Massachusetts Cavalry. The regiment was re-
tained at Port Hudson for the remainder of the year 1863 and was en-
gaged in collecting forage and in such service as belonged to a force of
cavalry. On the 7th of January, 1864, the Third went to New Or-
leans and remained there until about March I, when it left the city to
participate in the Red River expedition, and was assigned to the Fourth
Cavalry Brigade, Colonel Dudley commanding. The regiment reached
Brashear on March 18, and on the 2 1st engaged the enemy at Hender-
son's Hill. The month of A^ril brought vigorous work, frequent en-
counters, and severe fighting with the enemy. The official account
says that on the 12th it escorted a flag of truce with three wagons
loaded with supplies for the Federal wounded within the Confederate
hues ; that after the Union army had fallen back to Grand Ecore,
where it remained till the 2 1st, the regiment, for several days follow-
ing, skirmished and fought, driving the enemy before it, and clearing
the way for the general column. After the battle the Third took post
on Henderson Hill, which was held till the Union arm\' had passed.
On the 29th it crossed the Red River, and after a march of twenty

344 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

miles to tlie north, it had a sharp engagement with Ouantrell's soldiers.
In May, after the conflicts at Semmesport and Calhoun Station, it re-
tired with the army of General Banks to Morganza, on the Mississippi.

June 25 the Third Cavalry was again transformed into a regiment of
infantry for temporary ser\ice, and on July 15 sailed for Fortress Mon-
roe. On July 28 the regiment reported at Chain Bridge and went into
camp at Monocacy. September 2, 1864, Maj. John F. Vinal was pro-
moted to lieutenant- colonel. It was on continuous service in the
movements of the army of the Shenandoah Valley, and took an impor-
tant part in the battle of Opequan on September 19. It was part of the
front line in the charge that at first pressed back the enemy's forces.
Of the 600 men the regiment carried into this battle, it lost 104 officers
and men, eighteen of whom were killed. It participated in the final
charge on the 22d, that drove General Early from his position at Fisher's
Hill. With the rest of the Union army, it pursued the retreating force
until Harrisonburg was reachedon the 26th, where the regiment went into
camp. It assisted in the destruction of Confederate supplies at Mount
Crawford on September 29, and took part in the battle at Cedar Creek
on October 19, where it lost seventy- seven men killed and wounded. De-
cember 26 this regiment went by train to Harper's Ferry, and thence it
escorted a quantity of artillery to Remount Camp in Pleasant Valley,
Md. The march was made through deep snow that filled the roads,
and in weather of intense cold. The regiment went into winter quarters
till February 18, 1865, when it was again remounted, resuming its char-
acter as a cavalry organization. It had continuous duty to perform dur-
ing the spring campaign at Deerfield Station, Winchester, Jeffersonville,
Harper's Ferry and Frederick City. In May the original members of
the Forty- first Regiment were mustered out and left for home. The
regiment took part in the general review at Washington May 23, and
performed further service at Fort Leavenworth, Kan., and Fort Kear-
ney, Neb.

It was mustered out of service in Boston, October 8, 1865, after a con-
tinuous service of thirty- five months. The official record says, that "the
regiment marched 15,000 miles, and had been in more than thirty en-
gagements". On its regimental flag were inscribed the battles of Irish
Bend, Henderson Hill, Cane River, Port Hudson, Sabine Cross Roads,

FORTY- SEVENTH REGIMENT.

345

Muddy Bayou, Piny Woods, Snag Point, Bayou de Glaize, Yellow
Bayou, Opequan Creek, Fisher's Hill, and Cedar Creek. In the course
of its long and arduous service it had received high commendation for
good discipline and gallantry inaction from many eminent commanders,
under whom it had the honor to serve. Among these may be mentioned
Major-General Banks, Sheridan, A. T. Lee, Grover, and Emory.

THE FORTY- SEVENTH REGIMENT,

Company D of which was largely composed of New Bedford men, was
recruited for nine months' service through the efforts of Lucius B.
Marsh, a well-known citizen of Boston, in the fall of 1862. In Novem-
ber it went into camp at Readville, and on the 29th was ordered to join
the Banks expedition, then being organized in New York. It went into
camp on Long Island, and December 21 sailed in the steamer Missis-
sippi for New Orleans At this time Austin S. Cushman was major of
the regiment, and the following were the officers of Company D :
Captain, Joseph Burt, jr. ; first lieutenant, William H. Topham ; second
lieutenant, Samuel G. Blaine.

On its arrival the regiment reported to General Banks, January I,
1865, at New Orleans; thence to Carrollton, where it reported to Gen.
W. T. Sherman On January 1 1 it was ordered to proceed to the
United States barracks at New Orleans. The companies of this regi-
ment were occupied in special guard duty, being detailed to various
points during the term of service. In March, 1863, the detached com-
panies were united again, and were ordered to the Metaire Race-course.
Colonel Marsh commanded the post. While at this point the New Bed-
ford company, together with that belonging in South Boston, crossed
Lake Ponchartrain and captured a steamer, a schooner, and other prop-
erty, including a quantity of cotton. May 19 the regiment was sent to
Camp Parapet, and was occupied in the long line of defenses. A com-
pany of negroes was recruited, which was the nucleus of the Second
Louisiana Regiment, and which was soon filled. Its. officers were drawn
from the Forty-seventh, the enlisted men being furnished from the con-
traband camp. The Forty-seventh Regiment was on duty at Camp
Parapet during the famous siege of Port Hudson. Its term of service

346 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

having expired, it came home by way of Cairo, 111., reaching Boston
August 1 8, 1863. It was accorded a generous welcome, and went into
camp at Readville. The men were furloughed till September 1, when
they were mustered out of service.

FIFTY-FOURTH REGIMENT INF. M. V.

Of this regiment Robert G. Shaw was colonel, and one of its com-
panies, C, was raised in New Bedford. This regiment was the first com-
posed of colored soldiers which was raised in the State. ' It left for the
seat of war May 28, 1863. It made a famous record ; and its regimental
banner is emblazoned with the follwing named engagements : Fort Wag-
ner, and the several engagements before Charleston, Olustee, James
Island, Honey Hill, and Boykin's Mills. Company C was recruited in
New Bedford with the following officers : Captain, James W. Grace ;
sergeants, WilHam H. W. Gray, Wesley Furlong, William H. Carney,
Warton A. Williams, George H. Lee ; corporals, James H. Buchanan,
George Delevan, David S. Fletcher, James H. Gooding, William D.
Kelly. The regiment continued in faithful service to the government
till it was mustered out and disbanded on Boston Common, September
I, 1865. It was at the siege of Fort Wagner, July 17, that these col-
ored troops made a noble reputation for bravery and sacrifice, forever
silencing the prediction that the negro would not fight. It was at this
assault that Color- Sergeant William H. Carney, of New Bedford, per-
formed a brave deed in holding aloft the flag in the fiercest of the fight,
and bringing it into camp, proudly saying, " The old flag never touched
the ground, boys." This act, acknowledged to be one of the most heroic
deeds of the civil war, is recorded in the State documents. In 1889, at
the urgent request of the writer. Color- Sergeant Carney wrote a detailed
account of the affair. It seems proper that it should appear in this
chapter. He has added so much interesting material regarding the
formations of Company C and of the regiment, that the entire article is
herewith presented.

" Early in 1863 there was a strong movement on the part of the gov-
ernor of Massachusetts, John A. Andrews, to raise a regiment of colored
soldiers. The citizens of New Bedford, both white and colored, were

FIFTY-FOURTH REGIMENT. 347

glad of the opportunity, and went earnestly to work in order to aid the
governor in accomplishing his object. Before he had been officially
authorized by the United States government to raise the regiment, New
Bedford was actively at work to do her part by organizing a company.
A meeting having been held by the citizens, and the subject thoroughly
discussed, a soldier. Colonel Maggi, by his stirring speech, roused us to
a sense of duty and patrotism. Only a few weeks passed, when a public
meeting was called in Liberty Hall. This meeting was to see E. M.
Hallowell, who came fresh from the field, with his arm in a sling from a
wound received in battle. As he came with authority and information
from the State Department in regard to recruiting, he was listened to
with intense interest. From that meeting the spirit of enlisting was im-
bibed, and in a few days recruiting was commenced. Down on William
street, in the building that was for many )ears occupied by Tobe)' &
Coggeshall, and which is now on Second street, was where the recruit-
ing was begun, with James W. Grace as recruiting officer, and Dr. John
H. Mackie as examining surgeon. Everything being ready the enlist-
ment commenced, and forty- six men were enlisted in New Bedford. I
will give the names of these as far as I can : William H. W. Gray,
Joseph H. Campbell, George Delevan, Abram Terrants, Joseph Hall,
Treadwell Turner, James H. Buchanan, James N. Gooding, Cornelius
Heuson, Lewis Fleetwood, George H. Lee, Samuel Layton, Wesley
Furlong, John L. Wright, Charles H. Harrison, John Harrison, Nathan
Young, Richard Nelson, Abram Conkling, Wanton A. Williams, John
Atkins, Alexander H. Johnson, Henry A. Monroe, Charles Guinn,
Richard Foster, William H. Carney. March 4 we marched to the
station and took the train for Readville, where, with Gen. R. A. Pierce
as commander, we were received and quartered. Now we began to
realize we were enlisted men, and about to become soldiers. You can
imagine a roll of raw recruits, standing guard on a cold March night for
the first time, those who were not on duty going to bed in a bunk filled
with straw, shivering under one blanket in an unlined barrack. We
were extremely susceptible to the change from March 3 to March 4,
but March 5 came and found us no longer in citizen's clothe^ but in
the blue trousers and coats, with fatigue caps. For the reveille, roll
eall, breakfast, for all these things we had to fall in and out. In this

348 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

way we passed the time at Readville until May, interspersed with squad,
company, and battalion drill; then we were ordered to Boston to em-
bark for South Carolina. Having arrived at Hilton Head, we were
ordered up the river to Beaufort, S. C. We were here only a few days,
however, before we were ordered to St. Simon's Island Upon arriv-
ing there we found it deserted by all but one man, and we took charge of
him. From here we made a successful raid to Darien, capturing a lot
of supplies — vessels loaded with cotton and cattle — and the city itself.
Thence we proceeded to James Island, S. C, staying only four days,
during which time we were engaged with the rebels and successfully re-
pulsed them. Thence to the charge and attack on Fort Wagner. On
the 1 8th of July, 1863, about noon, we commenced to draw near this
great fort, under a tremendous cannonading from the fleet, directed upon
the fort. When we were within probably a thousand yards of the fort,
we halted and laj' flat upon the ground, waiting for the order to charge.
The brave Colonel Shaw and his adjutant, in company with General
Strong, came forward and addressed the regiment with encouraging
words. General Strong said to the regiment : ' Men ot Massachusetts,
are you ready to take that fort to night?' And the regiment spon-
taneously answered in the affirmative. Then followed three cheers,
proposed by General Strong, for the regiment ; three cheers for Colonel
Shaw ; three cheers for Governor Andrew and Massachusetts, and three
cheers for General Strong. We were all ready for the charge, and the
regiment started to its feet, the charge being fairly commenced. We
had got but a short distance when we were opened upon with musketry,
shell, grape and canister, which mowed down our men right and left.
As the color-bearer became disabled, I threw away my gun and seized
the colors, making my way to the head of the column ; but before I
reached there the line had descended the embankment into the ditch,
and was making its way upon Wagner itself. While going down the
embankment our column was staunch and full. As we ascended the
breastworks, the volleys of grapeshot which came from right and left
and of musketry in front, mowed the men down as a scythe would do.
In less than twenty minutes I found myself alone, struggling upon the
ramparts, while all around me were the dead and wounded, lying one
upon another. Here I said, ' I cannot go into the fort alone,' and so I

FIFTY-FOURTH REGIMENT.

349

halted and knelt down, holding the flag in my hand. While there, the
musket-balls and grapeshot were flying all around me, and as they
struck, the sand would fly in my face. I knew my position was a criti-
cal one, and I began to watch to see if I would be let alone. Discover-
ing that the forces had renewed their attack farther to the right, and the
enemy's attention being drawn thither, I turned and discovered a bat-
talion of men coming towards me on the ramparts of Wagner. They
proceeded until they were in front of me, and I raised my flag and started
to join them, when, from the light of the cannon discharged on the fort,
I saw that they were enemies. I wound the colors round the staff and
made my way down the parapet into the ditch, which was without water
when I crossed it before, but was now filled with water that came up to
my waist. Out of the number that came up with me there was now no
man moving erect, save myself although they were not all dead, but
wounded. In rising to see if I could determine my course to the rear,
the bullet I now carry in my body came whizzing like a mosquito, and
I was shot. Not being prostrated by the shot, I continued my course,
yet had not gone far before I was struck by a second shot. Soon after
I saw a man coming towards me, and when within halting distance I
asked him who he was. He replied, ' I belong to the One Hundredth
New York,' and then inquired if I were wounded. Upon my replying
in the affirmative, he came to my assistance and helped me to the rear.
'Now then,' said he, 'let me take the colors and carry them for you.'
My reply was that I would not give them to any man unless he belonged
to the Fifty- fourth Regiment. So we pressed on, but did not go far be-
fore I was wounded in the head. We came at length within hailing dis-
tance of the rear guard, who caused us to halt, and upon asking who we
were, and finding I was wounded, took us to the rear and through the
guard. An officer came, and after taking my name and regiment, put
us in charge of the hospital corps, telling them to find my regiment.
When we finally reached the latter the men cheered me and the flag.
My reply was, 'Boys, the old flag never touched the ground.' I de-
livered it from my own hands to the officer in charge. The limits pre-
scribed for this paper would be exceeded if any account of the remain-
ing forty-eight days of the heroic strife on Morris Island were attempted.
The truest courage and determination were manifested on both sides on

350 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

that day at Fort Wagner. There was no longer a question as to the valor
of northern negroes. The assault on Fort Wagner completely removed
all prejudices in the department. General Gillmore issued an order for-
bidding all distinction to be made among the troops in his command, so
that, while we lost hundreds of our numbers, we nevertheless were equal
in all things save the pay. However, while the government refused to
pay us equally, we continued to fight for the freedom of the enslaved,
and for the restoration of our country. We did this, not only at Wag-
ner, as has been seen, but also in the battles on James Island, Honey
Hill, Olustee, and at Boykin's Mill."

February 26, 1863, New Bedford was honored with the presence of
the war governor, John A. Andrew, and General Wool. A public re-
ception was given the distinguished guests in the City Hall, and hun-
dreds of citizens paid their respects.

In March State aid was directed to be paid to the families of colored
citizens who should be mustered into the service of the United States.
This act of justice brought assistance to many families in the city which
were represented in a number of companies of colored soldiers in the
army.

In May $1,000 was authorized to be expended in raising a company
of heavy artillery.

Among the local events that are recorded during 1863 was the dis-
charge of a watchman, July 15, "for using seditious language." State
aid was ordered to be paid to the families of all drafted men. Bells
were rung and artillery salutes fired on the day of public thanksgiving,
August 6.

New Bedford suffered great losses in her maritime pursuits in the
American Revolution and in the war with England in 1812, as has been
shown in previous pages. She again, and for the third time, had her
whaling fleet swept from the seas and the pursuit of this industry seri-
ously checked by the rebel, cruisers. The Alabama in particular made
sad havoc in our fleet, and many of our best ships were destroyed. Just
how serious this was may be judged from the fact that, of the forty- six
vessels destroyed, twenty-five of them belonged in this port, and two in
Fairhaven ; that the estimated value of the whale ships destroyed by
rebel cruisers was $1,150,000, and of the oil $500,000, making a total

LOSSES OF THE WHALING FLEET. 351

of $1,650,000. The following is the list.of ships destroyed, belonging
in New Bedford, and the amounts of the cargoes :

1862. — Ship Benjamin Tucker, 350 barrels of sperm oil ; bark Eben
Dodge, bark Elisha Dunbar, ship Levi Starbnck, bark Virginia.

1863. — Bark Lafayette, 750 barrels of sperm oil; bark Nye, 350 bar-
rels of sperm and 150 barrels of whale oil.

1864. — Bark Edward, 100 barrels of whale oil; bark Golconda, 103
barrels of sperm and 659 barrels of whale oil.

1865. — Bark ^^z^^azY, 30 barrels of sperm oil; bark Brunswick, 200
barrels of whale oil ; bark Congress, 360 barrels of whale oil ; ship Eu-
phrates, 200 barrels of whale oil; bark Gypsy, 320 barrels of sperm
and 50 barrels of whale oil; ship Hector, 275 barrels of sperm oil ; ship
Hilhnan, 200 barrels of whale oil ; ship Isaac Howland, 160 barrels of
sperm and 480 barrels of whale oil ; bark Isabella, 300 barrels of whale
oil ; bark Jirch Swift, 400 barrels of whale oil ; bark Martha 2d, 200
barrels of whale oil ; ship Nassau, 100 barrels of whale oil ; bark Nim-
rod, 1 10 barrels of whale oil; ship Sophia Thornton ; bark Waverly, 50
barrels of sperm and 400 barrels of whale oil ; ship William Tliomp-
son, 250 barrels of whale oil, making a total of twenty-five vessels be-
longing to New Bedford, and 2,742 barrels of sperm and 4,150 barrels
of whale oil.

An indication of the damage inflicted on New Bedford by the civil
war may be seen in tlie statistics given: -Valuation in i860, $24,196,-
138; in 1865, $20,525,790. This diminution was largely due to the
effect of the war upon the whaling industry.

Company B of the Third Regiment of Heavy Artillery was raised in
New Bedford in the spring of 1863, and with eight other companies
was mustered into service for garrisoning the forts on the coast of Mas-
sachusetts. This company (Sixth unattached) was officered as follows:
Captain, John A. P. Allen ; first lieutenants, T. Washburn Cook, Will-
iam Cook ; second lieutenants, Edwin Dews, Frederick S. Gifford.
With other unattached companies in Massachusetts, it was given a reg-
imental organization under the name of the Thiid Regiment of Heavy
Artillery, and in the fall of 1864 was ordered to report at Washington
for duty in that city's defenses. Captain Allen was promoted to major,
and later to lieutenant- colonel, October 13, 1864. The command of

352 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Company B was then given to Edwin Dews, who had been promoted
to captain. It did faithful service in garrison duty in the various forts
surrounding the capital city, and as the record reads, "executed well the
duties which came to it." Captain Dews commanded the company
until it left the service. T. Washburn Cook was commissioned captain
and assigned to another company.

New Bedford was well represented in the Fourth Cavalry, organized
February 12, 1864. Company B was largely composed of New Bed-
ford men. Its officers, when the regiment left the State, were : Cap-
tain, George R. Hurlburt ; first lieutenant, Joseph C. Brotherson ; second
lieutenant, James E. Mulligan. Several members of Company K were
from New Bedford. Company M was in command of Capt. Lucius H.
Morrill, of New Bedford, and William T. Soule was second lieutenant.
The regiment sailed in March on the steamer Western Metropolis for
Hilton Head, S. C, and in May returned to Fortress Monroe and re-
ported to General Butler. It entered upon service in the Army of the
James, participating in the unfortunate battle of Drury's Bluff, May 9
to 16. In June it took part in the operations of the cavalry against
Petersburg and Richmond.

During the year 1865 the companies of this regiment were widely
scattered. Captain Hurlburt's company was in the Department of the
South, with headquarters at Vienna, Va. It was in several engagements
in Picolata Road, Fla., in February, and at Manning, Quigley's Mills,
Swift Creek, Camden, Waterbury and Deep Creek in the month of
April.

In the spring. Company M, Captain Morrill, with Companies I and L,
under the command of Colonel Washburn, was stationed with General
Ord at the headquarters of the Army of the James, and it fell to their
honor to participate in one of the most important achievements of the
war. April 6th this force, numbering thirteen officers and sixty-seven
men, was sent to the support of two regiments in holding High Bridge,
eighteen miles from headquarters at Burkesville. It was of the greatest
importance that this point should be held, for it was feared that the
enemy would cross the Appomattox. The following account is given
of this affair: " The expedition was commanded by Brevet-Brigadier
General Theodore Read, of General Ord's staff. Leaving the infantry

FIFTY-EIGHTH REGIMENT

353

at the bridge, which was reached about noon, the cavalry pusiied on
some two miles further, till they met a superior force of Confederate
cavalry with artillery. Falling back to the bridge. Colonel Washburn
found the infantry there already attacked by the cavalry advance of
Lee's army, under Generals Rosser and Fitz Hugh Lee, and, with a
bravery worthy of all renown, the gallant band delivered battle against
the overwhelming odds. Twice did the cavalry cut its way through the
surrounding hosts, but the infantry could not escape, and the third time
did Colonel Washburn hurl his handful against the enveloping lines.
During the struggle that ensued that noble ofificer was mortally wounded.
General Read had been killed, and eight of the twelve officers of the
Fourth engaged, were killed or wounded."

But the importance of the delay which the heroic sacrifice had se-
cured can scarcely be over-estimated; it had enabled General Sheridan
and the Sixth Corps to fall on the Confederates' rear guard and to prac-
tically destroy it at Sailor's Creek ; and General Ord to have his bat-
talions within striking distance of the escaping army. The little band
of the Fourth Cavalry had been almost annihilated. Captains Hodges
and Goddard and Lieutenant Davis were killed outright, but the sur-
vivors knew that their daring had much to do with the final surrender of
Lee's entire army, less than three days after.

The various detachments of the regiment were gathered at Richmond
at the close of hostilities, where they remained during the summer and
autumn. They were mustered out of service November 14, 1865.

FIFTY-EIGHTH REGIMENT OF INFANTRY, M. V.

The organization of this regiment was completed in April, 1864, and
it was the last infantry regiment mustered into the national service for
three years. It was largely composed of men who had already seen
service during the civil war.' Company E was raised in New Bedford,
and the following were its officers when it left the State for the front.
Captain, William E. Mason ; first lieutenant, Charles A. Tobey ; second
lieutenant. Allen Almy. The regiment was under the command of
Lieut. -Col. John C. Whitton. The major was Barnabas Ewer, jr., and
the quartermaster, Theodore A. Barton. It left Readville April 28, and
4^

354

HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

reached Alexandria, Va., two days later. On May 2, having dispensed
with surplus baggage, the regiment took the cars for Bristow Station,
whereitwas assigned to the First Brigade, Second Division, Ninth Corps,
under Gen. A. E. Burnside. On May 4 the forward movement was
begun ; the troops marched twenty miles and were much exhausted.
The next day Rappahannock and Rapidan Rivers were crossed, and a
much longer distance was covered, though many of the men fell out by
the way.

On May 6 the command reached Wilderness Tavern, joined with the
Third Division under General Wilcox, and moved forward to fill the
gap between the right and left wings of the Union army. An engage-
ment ensued with the enemy, entrenched on the opposite side of a
swampy ravine. The Fifty-eighth lost seven killed and twenty- three
wounded.

This regiment took part in many severe engagements in the battles
of Spottsylvania and North Anna, and lost many men. On June 3 the
Fifty- eighth moved forward and joined the assault on the Confederate
lines at Cold Harbor. The account says: " Through a deadly fire it
advanced to within fifty yards of the hostile works, where the men with
bayonets and tin cups threw up slight defenses of earth, being ordered
to maintain the position at all hazards. They did this during the day,
though at a heavy loss, eighteen being killed and sixty-seven wounded."
Among those killed was Maj. Barnabas Ewer, of Fairhaven. The regi-
ment was continually on duty and in action till the close of operations
before Cold Harbor, June 12.

In the Battle of the Crater, July 30, the Fifty-eighth was assigned to
assist in the charge on the exploded fort and the capture of a battery.
The attempt proved disastrous ; many of the Union troops were made
prisoners. The Fifty- eighth alone lost five killed, thirty wounded and
eighty-four captured. In September it crossed the Weldon Railroad,
and joined in the battle of Poplar Spring Church, in which nearly the
entire regiment was captured by the enemy. It was recruited and ren-
dered still further service at Forts Mahone and Sedgwick. It took
part in the grand review. May 23, 1865, in Washington, and was mus-
tered out of service at Readville, July 26.

Few regiments of the Union army did more loyal service, or lost
more severely than did the Fifty- eighth. It bears on the regimental

THE ASSASSINATION OF LINCOLN. 355

colors the names of Wilderness, Spottsylvania, North Anna, Cold Har-
bor, Petersburg, Weldon Railroad, Poplar Spring Church, Fort Sedg-
wick, Fort Mahone.

The Fifteenth unattached company of infantry was raised in New
Bedford and mustered in for 100 days' service July, 29, 1864. Its offi-
cers were: Captain, Isaac C. Jennings; first lieutenant, Henry H.
Potter; second lieutenant, Thomas J. Gifford. It served in the forts
along the coast of the State and at other points where needed in its
defense. The company was mustered out of service November 15,
1864.

The news of the signing of the emancipation proclamation by Abra-
ham Lincoln was received in New Bedford with manifestations of great
joy. The church bells were rung and a hundred guns fired in honor of
this event. A public meeting was held in Liberty Hall on the after-
noon of February 22, 1865, James B. Congdon presiding, and congratu-
latory speeches were made by Rev. Messrs. Gotidwodd, Quint and
Thomas, Hon. Rodney French, of this city, and Rev. J. Stella Martin,
of New York. The surrender of General Lee and the downfall of the
Southern Confederacy was announced to this community by the clang-
ing bells and the roar of artillery at 5 o'clock on the morning of April
10. The unusual hour led many of the citizens to suppose that a fire
was in progress, and, like their ancestors in the War of 18 12, they were
anxious in their inquiries as to its location. Their fears were soon
turned into jo)-, and the city was wild with excitement at the glad
tidings. Business was suspended, schools closed, public and private
dwellings and the shipping in the harbor were decorated with flags and
bunting. All day long the bells were rung, and the artillery discharged
its booming notes of thanksgiving. The New Bedford Band was
stationed at an early hour on City Hall square and for hours enter-
tained the citizens with national airs. Throughout the day and evening
the city was alive with demonstrations of satisfaction and delight;
because of the victory of our arms and the approach of peace.

A few short days and the city was turned from its condition of
ecstatic joy to that of deepest sorrow. The tolling bells that awoke
the people from their slumbers on the morning of April 15 heralded
the mournful news of the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln.

3S6 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

The City Council passed a series of resolutions in regard to this sad
event, which, it is believed, were the first adopted by any municipal or-
ganization. They were as follows :

April 15, 18G5.

WiiKREAS, It has l)een permitted in the workings of a mysterious Providence, that
Abraham Linoohi, the President of the United States, should fall by the hand of an
assassin, and

Whereas, The murderer's dagger has struck down Will-am H. Seward, the Secretary
of State, next to the President the most exalted and important officer of the govern-
ment, and we are prepared at any moment to hear that he is no more ; therefore,

Resolved, That an agony of sorrow that finds no relief but in the deep conviction
that the Lord God Almighty liveth and reigneth, and that He is still the refuge and
support of His people, has taken possession of our souls and bows us down to the dust
with its awful and overwhelming reality.

Resolved, That in view of the exalted virtues and eminent public services of Abra-
ham Lincoln, his wisdom, his firmness, his unassuming piety, and unswerving adherence
to the great principles of universal liberty ; the masterly statesmanship and inspiring
confidence which he has exhibited during the fearful struggle in which our country has
been engaged, and which, with the help of God and a devoted people, he had brought
•so near to a triumphant termination; we deplore, with intensity of emotion wliieh
finds no language for its adequate expression, the loss of this great and good man, of
this faithful and devoted pubhc servant.

Resolved, That while we bow submissively before the Sovereign Disposer of events,
and seek, with this great calamity upon us, for the consolation which flows from the
conviction ''that He doeth all things well;" while we weep manly tears at the loss
of our greatest pubhc benefactor, of our dearly beloved and venerated Chief Magis-
trate, and are deeply apprehensive that soon the tidings will reach us that the gifted
and faithful Seward has shared his fate, we will nerve our hearts and our hands to
meet the crisis this awful event has brought upon our country, and the performance of
the high and solemn duties which as men and as citizens of the United States now
devolve upon us.

At noonday, April 15, a religious service was held in the North Con-
gregational Chapel. Appropriate addresses were made by Rev.
Messrs. A. H. Quint, William J. Potter, Thomas Skinner, and other
speakers. The service was one of deep interest and solemnity, and
was a fitting expression of grief at this national calamity.

Among the New Bedford men who served in an official capacity in
the military service during the civil war were :

Brig.-Gen. Richard A. Pierce, Governor Andrew's staff.

Eighteenth Regiment — Lieut-Col. Timothy Ingraham, First Lieut.

THE SOLDIERS' AND SAILORS' MONUMENT.

357

Sanford Almy, Com.-Sergt. William M. Ingrahani, Principal Musician
Cyrus A. Vaughan.

Twenty-first Regiment — Lieut. -Col. Albert C. Maggi.

Thirty-third Regiment— Col. Albert C. Maggi, Capt. Peleg C. Sears.

Twenty-ninth Regiment, Co. G — First Lieut. Freeman A. Taber.

Forty-fourth Regiment — Q.-M.-Sergt. Frederick S. Gififord.

Fifty- fifth Regiment — Chaplain William Jackson.

Fifty-eighth Regiment — O.-M. Theodore A. Barton, First Lieut. Free-
man C. Luce, First Lieut. William H. Caldwell ; Co. E — William E.
Mason.

Sixtieth Regiment — Sergt.-Maj. W. H. Caldwell.

Second Heavy Artillery, Co. F — Lieut. Roland L. Hillman.

Fourth Heavy Artillery — Lieut.-Col. Samuel C. Hart, Chaplain Isaac
H. Coe.

Thirteenth Battery — First Lieut. Timothy W. Terry.

Fourteenth Battery — Capt. E. P. Nye.

Sixteenth Battery — Capt. Henry D. Scott.

U. S. Cavalry — Capt Isaac C. Hart.

The city of New Bedford furnished 3,200 men for the war, a surplus
of 1,100 over and above all demands. It expended during the four
years $125,495.85 for the families of volunteers. It expended on ac-
count of the war $177,000 beside the above.

The Soldiers' and Sailors' monument, erected. by the city in memory
of the citizens who died in the service of their country during the
Southern Rebellion was dedicated July 4, 1866. It is located on a
commanding site within the city common. The monument was designed
by George F. Meacham, of Boston, and is an artistic and beautiful
structure. The stone is of Concord granite of superior quality. The
inscriptions upon it are as follows :

[North side.J
Navy.

Erected by the City of New Bedford as a Tribute of Gratitude to Her Sons Who Fell De-
fending Their Country in Its Struggle with Slavery and Treason.
[South side]

Army.

[West side.J

Dedicated July 4th, 1866.

358 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

In the corner-stone were deposited a roll containing, as far as could
be gathered, the names of the patriot dead, photographs of distinguished
generals, city documents, newspapers, etc. The cost of the monument,
fencing and grading the grounds, was $13,300.

The corner-stone was laid with imposing ceremonies on July 4, 1866.
A grand procession was formed on City Hall square, Brig.-Gen. Tim-
othy Ingraham, marshal, assisted by Col. Samuel C. Hart, Majs. W. E.
Mason and Edwin Dews, Capts. George R. Hurlburt and Frank L.
Oilman, assistant marshals. The procession included soldiers, children
of the public schools, temperance societies, city officials and a cavalcade
of citizens. At the Common the exercises included singing by children,
music by New Bedford Brass Band, prayer by Rev. T. C. Moulton,
reading of the Declaration of Independence by Master I. C. Cornish,
laying of the corner-stone by His Honor, John H. Perry, reading of a
poem by James B. Congdon, and an oration by Rev. A. H. Quint, D. D.
The eloquent speaker closed his oration with the following words :

" Here, on this sunrise slope, and looking to the free waters, let this
column rise. Here, where old men come to rest, let them dwell on the
memories of the dead sons. Here, where young men and maidens lin-
ger in the evening air, let them remember the heroic men who did their
duty and did it well. Here, where the children play on the grassy sod,
let them reverently drink in the inspiration of this silent stone, and know
that they owe to their, country their hearts and their hands. Here,
where the children and the widow come to weep, let them feel that their
heroes did not die in vain. Here, where the orphan stays to look at the
memorial of his father, let him learn to be as heroic, as noble, and as
true."

The interesting exercises were closed by the singing of " America"
by the audience, and a salute of thirty-six guns by the artillery com-
pany. The committee of arrangements for erecting the monument was
composed of Aldermen Joseph Knowles and George G. Gifford, Coun-
cilmen Austin S. Cushman, William C. Taber, jr. and William T. Smith.

NEW BEDFORD IN THE NAV'V.

Glorious were the achievements of the Northern armies in the four
years' struggle that resulted in the perpetuation of the unity of the

NEW BEDFORD IN THE NAVY.

359

American States. They have been recorded upon the pages of history
that will preserve for future generations their deeds of valor and of suf-
fering in camp and field. The means afforded for the preservation of a
record of these events have been so many and so complete that every
incident of any importance has been chronicled. The telegraph, sup-
plemented by the accounts daily given by the newspaper correspondents,
furnished the latest news of army movements and operations. The
newspaper, finding its way into every city, town and hamlet, became
the medium that supplied information to the people regarding the boys
in blue who represented those communities in the grand armies of the
nation.

The very nature of the naval operations during the great struggle
rendered it impossible that such frequent and full information concern-
ing them could be obtained. Guarding a coast line of three thousand
miles, operating in the gulf and in rivers, the vessels of the United States
navy rendered a service that can never, perhaps, be justly appreciated,
for the reason that the daily occurrences did not come under the regular
surveillance of the telegraph. Because of these conditions the navy has
not yet had full credit for its noble part in crushing out the southern re-
bellion. Time is developing a more just appreciation of, and history
may yet record, the fact that the navy deserves to share equally in the
glory and success of the nation's preservation.

Let the reader contemplate for a moment the important service ren-
dered by the blockading squadron. At the very beginning of the war
blockade-running was for a time a holiday affair ; but when the navy
department had completed the line of armed vessels that threaded the
southern and gulf coasts, this enterprise soon became hazardous and
costly to those engaged in it. The operations of the blockade- runners
were soon crippled and towards the end of the vi'ar were confined to one
or two ports. The efficiency of the blockading squadron is seen in the
fact, that during the war there were 1,119 prizes captured, including 350
steamers, their estimated value being $30,000,000. A large number of
these captured steam vessels were very fast and had been built for the
special purpose of running the blockade. They were utilized, when
captured, by the government and when armed and equipped were added
to the blockading fleet.

36o HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Of vastly greater importance to the Union than the captures made by
the blockading squadron, was the fact that, by its prompt and efficient
formation and operations, it compelled the respect of European powers
and thereby defeated the recognition of the Southern Confederacy. Its
vigilance deprived the rebels of munitions of war, provisions, clothing,
and other necessities from abroad. General Porter says : " It may be
well said that without the close blockade which was kept up by the
navy, the war might have been carried on indefinitely, while the battles
would have been far more bitter and bloody than they were.
As long as the Confederacy could be furnished with provisions, cloth-
ing, arms, and munitions of war, they could fight on even in a desperate
cause, but when the sinews of war were taken from them, they col-
lasped." Who can comprehend the disasters to the cause of the Union
that would surely have followed the appearance of the ironclad Aierri-
mac in Chesapeake Bay in March, 1862, had it not been providentially
met by Ericsson's nondescript Monitor ? Did not the death throes of
the rebellion begin when Farragut, with his fleet, passed the forts in Mo-
bile Bay, thus closing the last and most important base of supplies for
the Confederate cause ? Pages might be filled with accounts of what
the navy did in the civil war, but enough has already been mentioned
to indicate the importance of this arm of the service. It remains to show
that while New Bedford made a noble and praiseworthy record in the
army, she has an equally creditable one in her relations with the navy.

In earlier pages of this work allusion has been made to New Bedford's
contributions to the naval service in the American Revolution, and in
the War of 181 2. True to her loyalty in those national contests, she
continued her noble history in the civil war.

New Bedford furnished about 2,000 men for the Union armies,
and 1,336 for navy. A large portion of the former went forth from
the city in organized companies, and it has been a comparatively easy
task to arrange their departures in chronological order. Such is not
the case with the sailors who entered the naval service. The records
show that enlistments began here with the very commencement of the
war. They show that New Bedford men found positions either as offi-
cers, engineers, or seamen, in almost every vessel attached to the naval
squadron. The names are here given of a few of the many war vessels

MERRIMAC AND MONITOR. 361

on which New Bedford men did service in the civil war : Cinnbcrland,
Mississippi, Genesee, Sabine, Conemaugh, Shenandoah, Portsmouth, St.
Lawrence, Black Hawk, Mifinesota, Mohawk, Bainbridge, North Car-
olina, Marion, Vincennes, Dale, Montgomery, Cambridge, Preble, Colo-
rado, Congress, King Fisher, Mohican, Sagamore, Kensington, Kearsarge,
Vermont, Aroostook, R. R. Cuyler, Tioga, Sonora, Albatross, Santee,
Niphon, Ethan Allen, Pequoit, Susquehanna, Curfezv, Hartford, Huron,
Nantucket, Kennebec, Canandaigua, and San Jacinto.. Scores of New
Bedford seamen are mentioned as serving in the Atlantic, Gulf, Du-
pont's, Farragut's, Lardner's and other squadrons. Many names ap-
pear of officers and seamen who rendered service in the flotillas tliat
operated on the western and southern rivers.

The pages of history are full of stories of brave action and fearless
fighting in the navy. The capture of Roanoke Island ; the fight be-
tween the Monitor and the Merrimac ; the sinking of the Congress and
the Cumberland : the capture of Fort Henry and Fort Doneison ; the
capture of New Orleans; the battles of Mobile Bay and Fort Fisher —
these and many other events during the civil war, were characterized
by bravery and heroism worthy of any age.

It seems proper to mention one or two prominent events in which the
New Bedford men bore a creditable part. In the famous fight between
the Merrimac and the Monitor, on March 8, 1862, it will be remembered
that when the first named vessel made her appearance in Hampton
Roads, off Fortress Monroe, there lay at anchor a fleet of wooden ves-
sels of war. Among these were the Congress and the Cumberland.
An authentic account says : " It was a beautiful day, following a storm.
The water was smooth and the vessels in the roads swung lazily at
their anchors. Boats hung to the swinging booms, washed clothes on
the lines ; nothing indicated that an enemy was expected, and no one had,
apparently, the least idea that the Merrimac was ready for service.
The utmost ignorance seems to have prevailed in our squadron with
regard to her capacity to do harm. ... As the squadron lay
quiet, little dreaming of the danger that was so near, " three small
steamers' were reported to the senior officer at 12.45 P- M. coming
around Sewell's Point. It was soon ascertained by her large smoke
stack, that one of these vessels was the Merimac, and great excitement

362 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

prevailed. . . The Merrimac stood straight for \.hs Congress 2ind

Cumberland, and when she was within three-quarters of a mile, the lat-
ter vessel opened on her with heavy port guns, closely followed by the
Congress. Paymaster McKean Buchanan, a brother of the Confederate
commander of the Merrimac, was an officer of the Congress ; passing that
vessel the Merrimac steered direct for the Cumberland, the Confederate
flag-officer hoping that the Congress would surrender on seeing the fate
of her consort and that his brother would escape. In passing the Con-
gress, the Merrhnac delivered her starboard broadside, which was
quickly returned, and a rapid fire from both vessels was maintained on
the ironclad. The Merrimac, continuing her course, struck the Cum-
berland at right angles under the fore channels on the starboard side,
and the blow, though hardly perceptible on the ironclad, seemed to
those on board the Cumberland as if the whole ship's side had been
smashed in. Backing out, the Merrimac put her helm hard-a- starboard
and turned slowly while the two Union ships poured in a continuous
fire, which apparently fell harmless on the iron plating of the enemy.
On the other hand, as the ironclad swung round from the Cumberland,
the Congress lay with her stern to the enemy, which raked her three
times fore and aft. In fact, the Congress was a mere target for the ene-
iny'.s shot and shell, with little danger of the latter being injured in re-
turn. In the mean time the Cuinberland was settling in the water from
the effects of the great opening in her side, and although it was evident
to all on board that the day was lost, and tliat the ship must inevitably
go to the bottom, these brave fellows kept up a rapid fire until driven
by the water from the lower deck, when they retreated to the upper
deck and continued to fight the pivot guns till the Cumberland went
down with her colors still flying."^ " During the whole war," says Ad-
miral Porter, " there was no finer incident than this, and the bravery of
the officers and men of the Cumberland even won the applause of the
enemy." Among the casualties in this contest was the drowning of the
following seamen from New Bedford : Michal Milan, James Fuller,
John A. Pierce.

One of the officers in charge of those pivot guns was Lieut. William
P. Randall, of New Bedford. The account says of the closing moments

1 Admiral Porter's Naval History.

DEATH OF ALMY. 363

of this sanguinary conflict : "Of course as long as the Cumberland
kept up her fire, the enemy returned it, tlieir shells inflicting death on
all sides. Those who had escaped from below were decimated by the
merciless shot and shell poured into them by the enemy as they stood
crowded together on the spar deck. There is little generosity or sen-
timentality in war; the object is to kill or wound, and this was too fav-
orable an opportunity to be neglected. In the absence of Commodore
Radford, Lieut. George N. Morris was in command of the Cumberland,
and his heroism inspired his crew to the deeds which they performed
on that eventful day. Oi \hc Cumberland crew 121 were either killed
outright, or drowned, while of those saved, a large portion were
wounded."

" We reached the deck. There Randall stood :

" Another turn, men — so,"
Calmly he aimed his pivot gun :

'■ Now, Tenny, let her go."
Brave Randall leaped upon the gun,

And waved his cap in sport ;
" Well done. Well aimed. I saw that shell

Go through the open port."

It was our last, our deadliest shot ;

The deck was overflown,
The poor ship staggered, lurched to port,

And gave a living groan." '

The Norfolk Daybook, a rebel paper, in speaking of the fight, said :
"The last shot came from her after pivot gun. She sank with her
colors flying, a monument to the gallant men who fotight her. Would
to God they had died in a better cause ! "

Thomas Almy, of New Bedford, was acting master's mate on steamer
Wackusett, and met his death under the following circumstances : The
steamer laid off City Point, James River, May 20, 1862. At the time
there were no Confederate soldiers in the city. A lady came on board
and solicited the services of the ship's surgeon for her mother, who was
critically ill. The surgeon responded to the call of humanity, and went
ashore accompanied by the paymaster. The boat was in charge of
young Almy and awaited the arrival of the surgeon at the wharf. A

1 By George H. Boker,

364 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

company of Confederate soldiers came into the city at this moment, and
probably not knowing the circumstances that called them ashore, killed
Almy, made the surgeon and paymaster prisoners and sent them to
Richmond. They were promptly released by the authorities when
made acquainted with the facts.

A thrilling incident connected with the battle of Mobile Bay, April
5, 1864, was the sinking of the monitor Tecumseh. She was struck by
a torpedo and went down almost instantly, carrying with her the larger
portion of her officers and crew. In the account given by Acting-
Masters Langley and Cottrell, they report that the Tecumseh was nearly
abreast of Fort Morgan and about 150 yards from the beach, when it
was reported to Commander Craven that there was a row of buoys,
stretching from the shore a distance of from one to two hundred yards.
He immediately ordered full speed and attempted to pass between two
of the buoys. When in their range a torpedo was exploded directly
under their turret, blowing a large hole in the bottom of the vessel,
through which the water rushed with great rapidity. Finding that the
vessel was sinking, the order was given to leave quarters and from that
moment every one used the utmost exertions to clear himself from the
wreck. After being carried down a number of times, they were picked
up in a drowning condition. Only ten men were saved, 120 being
killed or drowned, and among the latter was the brave Commander
Craven. Among the survivors was Acting-Ensign John P. Zettick, of
New Bedford. He gives the following account of his experience in this
disaster: " All hands were called at 3 o'clock on the morning of the
5th to clear the ship for action. We were informed by Commander
Craven that his orders from Commodore Farragut were to engage the
rebel ram Tennessee, single-handed, and that he hoped to have the
hearty co operation of all hands in the work. At 5 o'clock the Tecum-
seh got under way and proceeded toward Fort Morgan. We fired the
first shell that opened the general attack on the forts. The guns were
then loaded with solid shot and forty-five pounds of powder, prepara-
tory to our anticipated engagment with the Tennessee." Mr. Zettick
says that he was in charge of the powder division under the turret. The
Tecumseh had proceeded but a short distance when Mr. Zettick saw a
great rush of water approaching. He gave the alarm, for he knew the

ZETTICK'S NARRATIVE. 365

significance of the advancing monster. The executive officer ordered
all hands to remain at their stations, and the chief engineer, who sat be-
side Mr. Zettick, arose and stood as motionless as a statue. Making
his way to the guns and finding that their crews had gone through the
port holes when the torpedo exploded and that the fate of the vessel was
sealed, Mr. Zettick went up to the turret and took shelter under the lee
of the pilothouse. A shell from Fort Morgan struck it and he leaped
into the sea, as the vessel sank beneath the waves. Mr. Zettick says he
was drawn down into the vortex, and but for his being an expert swim-
mer he would have been drowned. When he came to the surface the
Tecnviseh's boat was five rods away. His shouts were not heard and
the crew pulled away, leaving him in the water. He was finally picked
up by a boat from the U. S. S. Metacomet, under command of Acting-
Ensign Henry C. Neilds, whose bravery exhibited under a raking fire
from Fort Morgan, while engaged in rescuing ten seamen, received
honorable mention from Admiral Farragut. Mr. Zettick was placed
on board the monitor Wiiniebago, and had the satisfaction of participat-
ing in the capture of the ram Tennessee. One hundred and twenty offi-
cers and nien were killed or drowned in this tragic occurrence.

Many other similar incidents might appropriately find a place in these
pages, could space be spared, but these will suffice to show that New Bed-
ford, true to her record in the past, was honorably represented in the
naval operations of the civil war.'

Among the officers in the U. S. Navy belonging in New Bedford
who did service during the civil war were :

Lieut. -Commander William P. Randall.

Paymaster Gilbert E. Thornton.

Acting Assistant Paymaster James H. Hathaway.

Assistant Surgeon George F. Winslow.

Acting Volunteer Lieutenants William H. Wood.s, Henry Arey, I. H.
Eldredge.

Gunner Felix Cassidy.

Acting Masters Charles M. Anthony, Ezra S. Goodwin, Prince S.
Borden, George P. Lee, Joseph A. Bullard, Henry R. Baker, Henry K.

' For " Roll of Honor," comprising a list of soldiers of New Bedford who lost their lives tnrough
the war, see appendix.

366 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Lapham, Charles A. Crooker, Frederick Reed, James B. Wood, jr., W. K.
Tallman, jr., Ira B. Studley, I. H. Ferney, Henry Arey, Henry D.
Edwards.

Acting Master's Mates, George P. Giftbrd, Henry Few, C. P. Purring-
ton.

Acting Ensigns Henry Hathaway, John J. P. Zettick, James H.
Barry, William Jenney, Jere. H. Bennett, Charles W. Cleveland, Samuel
H. Damon, Edward N. Rider, William H. Jennings, Stephen E. Merri-
hew, Timothy Delano, Samuel G. Swain, James D. Babcock, James E.
Carr, Ansel S. Hitch, Oscar F. Wixon, James B. Russell, George H.
Drew, Calvin S. Wilcox, William C. Borden, John H. Chapman, Will-
iam Ottawell.

CHAPTER XX.

FROM THE CIVIL WAR TO THE PRESENT.

The Two-Hundredth Anniversary and its Celebration — Address Sent to Dart-
mouth, England — Establishment of Water Works — Development of Manufactures
— Minor Incidents — Fourth of July Celebration in 1876 — Establishment of Various
Manufacturing Institutions — Necrology — Statistics of Growth — City Officers from
1847 to 1891.

WHILE the great Rebellion was drawing to a close, an event oc-
curred in New Bedford, the details of which it is a pleasure to
record. This was the celebration of the two hundredth anniversary of
the incorporation of the town of Dartmouth, on Wednesday, September
14, 1864. The exercises were under the direction of a committee of
arrangements representing the towns of Dartmouth, Westport, Fair-
haven, and Acushnet, and the city of New Bedford. Invitations had
been extended to the sons and daughters of Old Dartmouth abroad
and a cordial greeting to all who by birth, descent, marriage, or former
residence, were interested in the celebration.

A procession was formed on City Hall square at ten o'clock, under
the marshalship of Henry J. Taylor, assisted by Andrew G. Pierce,

nVO HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY. 367

Lemuel M. Kollock, Cornelius Davenport, John W. Macomber, William
C. Taber, jr., and Charles H. Gifford. It was arranged in the following
order :

New Bedford Brass Band ; Marshal ; Common Council of New Bed-
ford ; Clerk of the Common Council ; Board of Aldermen ; City Clerk;
Selectmen of Dartmouth, Fairhaven, Acushnet ; Town clerks ; Rhode
Island and Massachusetts Christian Conference; Invited guests ; Mayor
of New Bedford ; Orator, poet, and officiating clergymen. The pro-
cession marched through several streets and then proceeded to the
North Christian Church, where the following exercises took place :
Music by the New Bedford Brass Band ; Singing by the choir of an
original hymn, by James B. Congdon ; Prayer by the Rev. William J.
Potter; Address by His Honor, George Howland, jr.. Mayor of New
Bedford ; Singing by the choir — The Battle Hymn of the Republic, by
Julia Ward Howe; Historical address by Hon. William W. Crapo ;
Music by the band ; Reading of an original poem by its author, James
B. Congdon ; Music by the band ; Benediction by Rev. Tyler C.
Moulton.

The e.xercises were of a highly interesting character and engaged the
close attention of an audience that completely filled the church. The
eloquent address of Hon. William Wallace Crapo was replete with valu-
able information relating to the early history of the township. At the
conclusion of the exercises, which for two hours afforded much pleasure
and profit to all who attended, the procession was again formed and
marched to City Hall. At 2 o'clock P. M. a banquet was served to a
large company of citizens and invited guests. Mayor Howland presided
at the post-prandial exercises, and Col. C. B. H. Fessenden officiated as
toast-master. The following toasts were offered :

"The President of the United States — honest and faithful Abraham
Lincoln." Hon. Thomas Dawes Eliot

" The Governor of Massachusetts — sound in head and heart; true to
the State, careful of its interests, jealous of its honor, tender of its citi-
zens, and true to the nation, the sovereign and safeguard of the State."
Hon. Robert C. Pitman.

"The Army and Navy — more than sympathy, all honor to the brave
and gallant soldiers and sailors, the true peacemakers, who, by their

368 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

heroism in suffering and exploit, have added to the nation's glory, and
through whose noble deeds we have the assurance of the nation's safety."
Rev. William J. Potter, late chaplain U. S. army. Mr. Potter closed
his address with the following sentiment: "The free church, the free
school and the free ballot, we would defend and spread throughout the
land, and open to all the inhabitants thereof."

An interesting letter was read from Hon. Robert C. Winthrop, presi-
dent of the Massachusetts Historical Society, stating his inability to be
present, and requesting ex-Governor Clifford to respond for him and for
the society. Governor Clifford made an eloquent speech and closed
amid great applause with the sentiment : " The old town of Dartmouth
— its founders were among the first to form a union to secure religious
liberty for the individual : May their descendants be as steadfast and
uncompromising in maintaining the ' Liberty and Union, now and for-
ever,' of their common country."

The toast to the clergy was as follows : " They owe much to those
sturdy men of Old Dartmouth, who, though they refused to pay church
rates, never failed to support honest and God-fearing ministers ; and
who, in a tolerant and catholic spirit, chose in 1730 as their religious
teachers, Nicholas Howland, a Friend, and Philip Taber, a Baptist."

Rev. Dr. Babcock, of Poughkeepsie, a former pastor of the William
Street Baptist Church, responded in a pleasant speech, and offered the
following: "The absent sons of Dartmouth — wlierever they are, they
remember their mother with undying affection."

The toast-master read several letters from the following named gen-
tlemen who had been invited but could not be present: His Excellency
Gov. John A. Andrew, Hon. Henry H. Crapo, Rev. Orville Dewey,
Hon. Alexander H. Bullock, Hon. J. H. W. Page, Martin L. Eldridge,
Thomas Almy, Hon. Robert C. Winthrop, Rev. Charles Ray Palmer,
Hon. Lemuel Williams, Rev. William S. Studley, Daniel Ricketson, and
Hon. Stephen Salisbury, president of the American Antiquarian So-
ciety.

The following lines were read by Colonel Fessenden in response to
the question : " What is there of interesting incident connected with the
history of Dartmouth ?"

TIVO HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY. 369

" A Dartmouth' ship to Dartmouth" shore,
The bold adventurous Gosnold bore ;
'Twas Dartmouth's' wide, historic strand.
Sheltered tlie storm-tossed Pilgrim Band ;
Against the wrong of British greed,
Hear Dartmouth's peer for justice plead ;
A Dartmoth ship'' with Dartmouth" crew.
With Dartmouth's name" and owner' too.
Had lading of th' historic tea.
Which found its steeping in the sea —
Wave-offering to Liberty."

James B. Congdon then read an address that he had prepared to be
sent to the mayor and aldermen of the city of Dartmouth, county of
Devon, England, as follows :

"To the Mayor, Recorder, and Aldermen of the city of Dartmouth, coimty of Devon,
England :

" Gentlemen : — On this day of our solemn festivities, while we are assembled to com-
memorate the incorporation, two hundred years ago, of the town called by a name which
your historic city has borne for nearly a thousand, we, the people of the city of New Bed-
ford, and of the towns of Dartmouth, Westport, Fairhaven and Acushnet, municipalities
into which the territory of the mother town has been separated, would to you and
through you to the inhabitants you repre.sent, send a greeting of remembrance and re-
gard.

" Forcibly and pleasantly have we at this time been reminded of the many interest-
ing circumstances which connect your ancient borough with the town whose corp-
orate birthday we now commemorate. We call to mind the fact, that it was from
Dartmouth and in a Dartmouth ship, bearing a name significant of that feeling of Con-
cord which will, we trust, forever characterize the intercourse between the nations to
which we respectfully belong, that Bartholomew Gosnold, in 1602, put forth upon his
voyage to America, lauded upon our shores, and upon an island often called by his
name, in sight from the spot where we are now assembled, erected the first white man's
dwelling upon the soil of New England.

" Deeper still have been our recollective associations as we have remembered, that it
was in your noble harbor, and in the nobler hearts and homes of the then inhabitants of
your city, that our Pilgrim Fathers found a shelter, when the perils of the storm drove
them from their course across the ocean to found an empire in the A'ew World. It was
the memory of that providential preservation, and of the hospitality extended to them
in that hour of despondency and weakness, that prompted them, when they went forth
from Plymouth Rock, to subdue the forest and extend the borders of their common-
wealth, to bestow upon this portion of their goodly heritage the name of that cit^Jby

and. ' Dartmouth in New England. ' The owner was Francis Rotch, of

37°

HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

the mouth of the Dart, from which they had taken their last departure for the new
home amid the wilds of America.

" The occasion demanded of those who had been selected to address us a brief recital
of that conflict which led to that separation of the United States of America from the
land our people have ever loved to call the Mother Country. And while we have been
moved and saddened Ijy the recital, we have with deep and grateful feelings remem-
bered that it was WilHam Legge, Earl of Dartmouth, Secretary of the colonies under
George III, and who derived his title from your ancient city, who gave the force of his
character and his commanding talents in opposition to the Grenville administration, for
conciliation and peace. For the memory of this friend of Franklin, the friend of justice,
the friend of peace, this high-minded Christian gentleman and peer of England, we shall
ever cherish the sentiments of profound respect.

" Such are some of the links of the golden chain of associations which at this moment
stretches across the ocean, and binds together the city whose harbor sheltered the ciu-
sadin^ fleet of the Lion Hearted Richard, with the family of communities which are rest-
ing near the waters of Gosnold's Hope. We would add, as a circumstance calculated to
strengthen the force of the historic reminiscences to which we have alluded, that we
too, are to a great extent a family of fishermen. At a period not remote, a whaling
fleet of nearly four hundred ships belonging to the communities we represent, manned
by more than ten thousand seamen, was afloat upon the ocean.

" We would assure you, gentlemen, that in sending you this greeting, which finds its
justification in, and depends for its interest upon, the incidents and circumstances we have
recited, we have a purpose deeper than the extension of a compliment, or the indulgence
of pleasant and interesting associations.

" We wish not to withhold the expression of the fact, that in the civil strife which is
now raging in our land, its loyal people would fain have extended to them that moral
encouragement and support that attends upon the favorable testimony of enlightened
Englishmen. They feel that they are doing battle for principles which they have de-
rived from their Saxon ancestry, and dear to the heart of every Briton.

'' Allow us, therefore, to express the hope that the reception of our earnest and af-
fectionate greeting will give such a direction to your feelings and lead to such an ex-
amination of the questions at issue between us and our infatuated southern fellow-
countrymen, as shall result in your giving the weight of your enlightened minds and
the testimony of your Christian character to the cause of universal freedom. We
address you amid the smoke and the roar of conflict; but we hope and believe that the
end is near — and when peace shall be restored and the flag of our country shall again
wave over an undivided soil and a united people, we feel assured that such will be then
our condition, that closer than it has ever been before will be the union between us
and our Mother Country.

•'New Bedford, September 14, 1864."

This address was beautifully engrossed by George B. Hathaway, and
after being signed by the mayor, aldermen, common councilmen, and
clerk of the city, and by the selectmen and town clerks of the towns
uniting in the celebration, it was forwarded to its destination.

THE WATER WORKS. 371

The exercises closed with the singing of an original hymn written for
the occasion by William G. Baker. The celebration was highly suc-
cessful in every particular and gave great pleasure to the citizens and
their invited guests. The addresses at the City Hall were of high char-
acter and supplied important additions to the history of the early days
of the township of Dartmouth.'

The civil war not only checked business enterprise in the community,
but it also stayed public improvement ; and during its continuance little
was accomplished in this direction. It was during this period, however,
that one of the most important improvements in the history of the city
had its birth — the introduction of water into New Bedford. The proj-
ect first demanded the attention of the government on March 8, i860,
when Frederick S. Allen introduced into the Common Council an order
for the appointment of a committee to " consider the practicability and
expediency of introducing a permanent supply of fresh water into the
city, and to report some plan, with the probable cost of doing so."
Messrs. Hunt, Lewis, and Reynard, on the part of the mayor and al-
dermen, and Messrs. Allen, E. Perry, Anthony, and Hammett, of the
Common Council, were selected as the committee. By a vote on July
26, i860, an expenditure of $300 was authorized to be made by the
committee, and with their succeeding investigations began the work on
this great undertaking.

The subject came before the city government many times for discus-
sion ; and it met with vigorous opposition from the very beginning, not
only from a portion of the city government, but from many of the citi-
zens. The advocates of the measure, however, were enthusiastic and
persistent in their cause ; and as the benefits and advantages that would
follow the introduction of water began to be understood and appre-
ciated, the proposed measure grew rapidly in public favor.

The services of Capt. Charles H. Biglow, an experienced engineer in
the service of the United States, and who had charge of the construc-
tion of the fort upon Clark's Point, were engaged in making the first
surveys and measurements. He was assisted in the work by George
A. Briags, then city surveyor, and by William F. Durfee. The first
report of the committee was made December 21, 1 86 1. It clearly set

1 For description and text of reply to the greeting sent to England, see Appendix.

372 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

forth the practicability of the enterprise, its importance to the future
welfare and prosperity of the city, and the necessity of prompt legisla-
tion in the matter. It showed that the Acushnet River was the only
reliable source of supply, and that this source was abundant for all de-
mands. It urged that, as a mechanical auxiliary, the introduction of
water was an imperative necessity, and that " it was a part of wise
statesmanship to look at the future, to anticipate its wants and guard
against its casualties. Cities, like men, flourish and prosper only by
their own exertions, and it becomes those whom the people have placed
in power and trust, to be equal to the present emergency. We know
its wants and necessities, and can comprehend the present crisis in our
afifairs. Shall we grasp and control that crisis, turn it with a steady
hand to our interests and prosperity, or allow it silently and timidly to
pass by and float beyond our reach ? Shall we legislate only for to-
day, and shrink from looking the great future in the face ? or, shall we,
knowing the necessity and perceiving the remed)% fearlesslj- perform
our duty ?"

Constant agitation of the subject in the city government and by the
public press awakened a thoughtful and progressive sentiment in the
community. It was seen that there was great force in the arguments
presented from time to time in the various official reports ; that pure
drinking water, an improved sanitary condition, an unfailing supply of
water for the fire department, the opening of hydrants and fountains,
all would conduce to the health, safety, and happiness of the people.
Public sentiment in favor of the enterprise grew fast ; and an act for
supplying the city of New Bedford with pure water was passed by the
General Court, April i8, 1863. It provided for the appointment of
commissioners ; gave power to take land, water, and water-rights for
the purposes of the works ; authorized the issue of water bonds to an
amount not exceeding $500,000, and also the passage of such ordinances
and by-laws as might be deemed necessary to govern and control the
enterprise. The act, in short, provided for all contingencies that seemed
important to its prosecution. On the I4tli of April, 1864, the act was
accepted by the city. The whole number of votes cast was 1,375, of
which 782 were in favor and 594 against the acceptance.

The serious and uncertain condition of national afifairs at this time
delayed the progress of the work, and little was done until the follow-

THE WATER WORKS. 373

ing year, when the great rebellion had received its doom and peace was
estabhshed. The first board of commissioners was organized Decem-
ber 13, 1865 ; William W. Crapo, chairman; Warren Ladd, and David
B. Kempton ; James B. Congdon, clerk. With the appropriation of
$100,000 made December 14, the great undertaking was fairly begun.

The reader who is sufficiently interested to follow in detail the con-
struction of this great improvement to its final completion, can do so
by consulting the minute reports that have found their proper place in
the city documents, and for which space cannot be spared here. They
enable one to fully appreciate the difficulties that beset the work and
which followed it to the close. The great undertaking was finished
during the closing weeks of 1869; and the water flowed through the
miles of pipes in the main streets of the city. Since that time great
extensions have been made, until now there are nearly sixty miles of
pipes in the streets. In addition to the first supply obtained by a dam
across the valley of the Acushnet, seven miles north of the city, a con-
duit has been opened to Little Quittacas Pond, two miles farther distant.
The whole cost of the works has been over $1,300,000. The great ex-
pense of the undertaking was somewhat lightened by the generous be-
quest of $100,000 for this object, from Sylvia Ann Howland.

The marvelous growth of the mechanical and industrial interests of
the city since the completion of the water-works forcibly illustrates the
wisdom of the men who inaugurated and encouraged the undertaking.
The subsequent history of the city shows that its prosperity is largely
due to its abundant and cheap water supply. The multitude of cotton
mills and various other factories that border our river front and lower
streets have sought this city largely because of the water supply.

The superintendents of the works have been as follows: To 1871,
George A. Briggs ; 1871-72, Israel C.Cornish; 1872-77, George B.
Wheeler; 1877-81, William B. Sherman; 1882, to the present time,
Robert C. P. Coggeshall. The Board of Commissioners of 1891, are
Mayor C. S. Ashley and Joseph Dawson, both ex officio ; Henry How-
ard, David B. Kempton, and William N. Church.

The history of New Bedford since the close of the civil war, so far as
it relates to this part of the volume, can only be a brief record of the
principal features of its steady growth and development, and of con-

374 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

spicuous incidents that have taken place in that period. During this
quarter of a century, the city has been changing from a port in which
the whaHng business was the chief source of wealth. This industry had
given the city a world-wide reputation through the numberless vessels
that for nearly two centuries had visited every ocean and clime. The
transition was fraught with anxiety and forlorn hope. For a time it
seemed as if the city was to experience the fate of Nantucket and be-
come an abandoned seaport. Its capitalists sought investment for their
accumulated wealth in the West and in enterprises that had no direct
influence in maintaining local business. Our idle wharves were fringed
with dismantled ships. Cargoes of oil covered with seaweed were
stowed in the sheds and along the river front, waiting for a satisfactory
market that never came. Every returning whaler increased the de-
pression. Voyages that in former times would have netted handsome
returns to owner and crews resulted only in loss to the one and meager
returns to the hardy mariners. Such was the condition of affairs in
New Bedford when peace came in 1865. Not long, however, did this
feeling of apatliy and discouragement exist. The forces of energy and
shrewdness that for a time were latent and inactive, were roused, and it
was clearly seen that something must be done to save the city from a per-
manent decline. The natural advantages of climate and situation for
the development of cotton manufacture, and of kindred industrial oper-
ations, were seen ; and capital, of which the city had an abundance,
was soon finding rapid and profitable investment in home industries.
The following brief notes of many of these industries and of other feat-
ures of the city's rapid growth during the period in question, will give
the reader an outline, which he can fill up from the later chapters of
this volume devoted to such topics.

On the 17th of January, 1867, occurred the heaviest snow-storm since
1857. Travel was generally suspended, and no railroad trains arrived
or departed during the day. Tlie business of the c\\.y was extended
this year by the establishment of the New Bedford Glass Works in the
winter. The first stone-crusher was put in operation by the city on the
lOth of April.

In March, 1868, Charles Dickens visited the city and gave a public
reading of the "Trial of Bardell vs. Pickwick." The hall was crowded,

IMPORTANT EVENTS.

375

and the reading of the distinguished author gave great delight to the
large audience.

The Fourth of July, 1868, was celebrated with unusual demonstra-
tions, the sum of $2,000 having been appropriated by the city for that
object. The day was ushered in by the customary clanging of bells,
and artillery salutes. Public and private buildings and the vessels in
the harbor were profusely decorated with flags and bunting, and the
entire city presented a holiday appearance. A procession composed
chiefly of the Grand Army men and city officials paraded the streets in
the morning. A patriotic service was held at the Soldier's Monument
on the Common. Eloquent addresses were made by Rev. Alonzo H.
Quint and Rev. William J. Potter. Music was supplied by the New
Bedford and Taunton brass bands. The pleasures of the day were
marred by an unfortunate occurrence. A balloon ascension took place
in the 'afternoon from the eastern part of the Common, and an immense
crowd of people filled the space near the inflated balloon. As the bal-
loon, in charge of George Collard, began its ascent, the anchor fell from
the aeronaut's basket, when about thirty feet from the ground, and
struck upon the head of William Mottram, of Taunton, and then caught
in the clothing of two boys, Charles Jones and J. C. Borneau. They
were quickly carried upward in the air. Mr. Collard promptly cut the
line and the boys fell into a tree from a height of about seventy-five
feet. Strange as it may appear, neither of the lads was seriously in-
jured. The festivities of the day were closed by a brilliant display of
fireworks on the Common.

At an election held July 18, 1868, the acceptance of a revised city
charter was decided unfavorably by the large majority of 381 against
61 votes. The objectionable features seemed to be the increased salary
and power that would be given the mayor.

In April, 1869, the New Bedford Choral Association was organized,
and began rehearsals in City Hall in preparation for the great Peace
Jubilee held in Boston in the following June.

On the 8th of September, 1869, a destructive southeast gale swept
over the city and vicinity. It began about 4 o'clock in the afternoon,
increasing rapidly in force, and continued until about 7 o'clock. Por-
tions of the County Street M. E. Church, and the balustrade on the roof

376 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

of the E%>ening Standard hnWi^w^ were blown down; several buildings
were unroofed, trees were uprooted, and general havoc wrought with
fences throughout the city. In Fairhaven, the spire of the Congrega-
tional Church was blown down. The most serious disasters, however,
occurred on the river. The tide rose to. the level of the wharves, and
huge waves swept over them, carrying valuable merchandise into the
water. Many of the vessels lying at the wharves were badly injured.
The ship Syren broke from her moorings, went through the bridge-
draw stern foremost, and was driven against Wilcox & Richmond's
wharf. Brig Eliza Stevens ran afoul the revenue cutter and a schooner,
both of which were badly damaged. Several other vessels were driven
in collision with one another, resulting in considerable damage. A
costly result of the gale was the destruction of the New Bedford and
Fairhaven bridge. The whole force of the storm was spent upon it,
and nearly all of the wood-work was soon floating up the river. The
scene presented when the gale subsided was, in spite of the damage
done, an interesting one. Many of the main avenues of the city were
blockaded with fallen trees and broken fences, and were strewn with
limbs and leaves. Chimneys were blown down from many of the
buildings, and the debris deposited in the yards and on the sidewalks.
On both sides of the river and on the island shores were the tempest-
tossed ships, schooners, yachts, and boats, all more or less damaged
and some of them dismasted.

One of the beneficent results of this September gale was the purchase
of the franchise of the bridge corporation at a cost of $20,970,31, and
the building of the new structure which, when finished in the fol-
lowing June, was made a free bridge. A vigorous movement to have
the draw widened was defeated. The entire cost of the bridge was
about $45,000 Bridge square, formed by the continuation of Front
street, was macadamized at a cost, including curbing and crossings, of
$1,107,00.

It was in the winter of 1869 that the velocipede mania, which swept
over the country, made its appearance in New Bedford.

One of the prominent features of the growth of manufactures in 1870
was the building of a new mill by the Wamsutta corporation, and the in-
stallation of a Corliss engine, which was then the largest stationary engine

IMPORTANT EVENTS. 377

in the world. This was among the earliest manifestations of the growing
interest by our capitalists in the cotton manufacture. On September
13 the New Bedford flour-mills were burned, with a loss of $100,000.
They were rebuilt at once.

As has been shown in former pages, the temperance question has ever
had a place in the local politics of the village, town, and city of New Bed-
ford. It was at this period (1871) that the topic again entered into the
discussions of the day, and the political contests resulting therefrom were
distinguished for their energetic character.

In October, 1871, a meeting was held in aid of the sufferers from the
great Chicago fire. In two weeks, $20,000 in money and clothing were
sent to the devastated city.

Another step in the advance of cotton manufacture was taken in
1 87 1, by the erection of the Potomska Mills.

The year 1872 saw the inauguration of horse railwaj's in New Bed-
ford. Since this time, as explained in later pages, the system has been
greatly extended.

In 1873 the subject of a railroad to Fall River was agitated. An ex-
cursion was made by a party of New Bedford capitalists on the 15th of
May, to look over the ground and consider the feasibility of the enter-
prise. In the same year the New Bedford and Taunton Railroad passed
into the hands of the Boston, Clinton and Fitchburg Company.

The small-pox, which has periodically visited this vicinit\-, made its
appearance in South Dartmouth in November, 1873, and about fifty
cases and several deaths followed.

On the 31st of August, 1874, the city was honored by the presence
of Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, who came from a visit to Cottage City and
Nantucket. The party came up the bay on the steamer Monohansett,
Capt. Charles H. Smith. This steamer had been Grant's dispatch boat
on the Potomac during the civil war, and it was a happy circumstance
that it could be used in conveying the distinguished general and his
party in their excursions on this coast. The shipping in the harbor,
many of the public buildings and private residences, and the main
thoroughfares of the city were profusely decorated with flags. As the
steamer came up the harbor and entered the river, the scene presented
to the coming guests was one of rare beauty. It was a bright, sunny

378 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

day, and the river was filled with gaily decorated vessels, yachts, and
boats ; indeed, every kind of craft that would float seemed to have been'
brought out to do honor to the occasion. Peals from the signal guns
of the yachts and salvos of artillery from the wharves greeted the Mono-
hansett as she approached the wharf. Immense crowds of people filled
the adjoining wharves and streets and lined the sidewalks. The New
Bedford City Guards and the Schouler Guards performed escort duty
for the procession to City Hall. Here Mayor Richmond made a speech
of welcome that was briefly responded to by General Grant. A recep-
tion was then held, during which hundreds of citizens were introduced.
A dinner was served to the visitors at the Parker House.

The subject of annexing the town of Fairhaven was considered in
Februarj', 1874, a petition of the citizens of that town being presented
to the city government. It was deemed inexpedient to take any action,
as strong opposition to the project was developed. In June of this year
the opening of the new steamship line to New York was celebrated by
excursions down the bay in the new steamers, City of New Bedford
and City of Fitclibtirg.

December 31, 1874, His Majesty Kalakua, king of Hawaian Islands,
and his staff" visited New Bedford. They were given a cordial recep-
tion by the city authorities and citizens. The visitors were entertained
at the Parker House. The following day the guests were -shown about
the city, visiting the cotton-mills and other points of interest. At noon
Mayor Richmond gave a reception at his home, and about a hundred
shipmasters paid their respects to the royal party. At its close the
visitors were escorted b}' the military to the City Hall where a public
reception and banquet was given. Mayor Richmond welcomed the
king and his suite in a cordial manner. The king bowed his acknowledg-
ments and fitting responses were made in behalf of the king by Chief
Justice Allen, and Governor Kapena of his staff.

Very important changes in the city charter were proposed in 1875,
and several were adopted. The steady development of business and
manufactures is indicated by the building of Waniusutta Mill No. 5,
and the incorporation of the Citizens' National Bank. The Fall River
Railroad was opened to travel December 15, of this year, and the event
was celebrated by a banquet at tiie Parker House. There were pres-

FOURTH OF JULY, 1876. 379

ent many prominent people from Fall River. The New Bedford Rail-
road extended its tracks and began running trains to the steamboat
wharf in the spring of 1876. Several meetings were held during the
year in the interest of a railroad to Middleboro.

The Fourth of July, 1876, was observed in this city with unusual cere-
monies. March 13 Congress passed a resolution recommending "the
people of the several States to assemble in their counties and towns on
the approaching centennial anniversary of our national independence
and that they cause to have delivered on that day an historic sketch of
said county or town, from the date of its formation, and that copies of
said sketch be filed in the clerk's office of said county and in the office
of the librarian of Congress " In accordance with this suggestion the
City Council appointed on April 6 a committee of arrangements and
made an appropriation of $4,000. The elaborate plans were executed
in a very satisfactory manner, and the celebration proved to be the most
complete and enjoyable in the history of the city. The procession was
made up in three divisions and included fine displays by the military
and fire department. Grand Army posts, disabled veterans in carriages,
cavalcade of truckmen, civil government, U. S. officers and invited
guests. An interesting feature was the Centennial Battalion, consist-
ing of the Centennial Guards and the Yankee Volunteers. The old-
fashioned uniforms worn by this body mingled in pleasant contrast with
those of the modern military organizations. The parade was one of the
finest features of the day and was fully worthy of the occasion. Base
ball games, a regatta, a balloon ascension, and the fireworks were all
successful and gave great pleasure to the multitude. The exercises in
Liberty Hall at midday were of a very interesting character. The
preliminary services consisted of a prayer by Rev. O. A. Roberts, the
singing by a quartette (Messrs. Wood, Littlefield, Tinkham, and Mor
ton) of a patriotic hymn, " The flag that's waved an hundred years,"
and an original hymn composed by James B. Congdon. The historical
address was delivered by Hon. William W. Crapo. It covered the entire
period of time from the settlement of the township of Dartmouth, in
1664, and vividly portrayed the leading events that characterized our
local history. The address closed with the following eloquent pas-
sages :

38o HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

"•Beautiful, indeed, for situation, is this city of New Bedford. Few places are there
on this continent, or elsewhere, which so well unite the institutions, benefits and ad-
vantages of the city with the freshness and simplicity of rural life. Lying between
green pastures, on the one hand, and the still waters of the river on the other, fronting
upon this bay which is as charming as the Bay of Naples, and rising with the elevation
of conscious pride from its shores, its physical condition and position are delightful be-
yond exception. We rejoice to observe and remember that those who have shaped its
outward fortunes have been studious to make it attractive and healthful, as the home
of a cultured and enlightened people. Its well-made and well-kept avenues and streets,
shaded by long lines of trees which our fathers have planted; its complete and cleanly
drainage, which the incoming and outgoing tides make perfect and efficient; its abund-
ant and pure water distributed and available for all the purposes of domestic, mechanical,
and protecting use; itstramed, alert, and electric fire department; its well diB'used sys-
tem for gas lighting; its schools, its churches and chapels, and bethel; its hospital, its
home for orphans, its many union of hearts and hands for good works; its comfortable
and pleasant homes after the bestmethods of New England life, combine to make this
municipality worthy our best affections, and of our constant effort for its prosperity
and peace.

" We celebrate to-day the centennial birthday of our indejiendent national existence.
'I'he republic was born amid the smoke and fire of battle, and at the cost of the blood of
patriots. It achieved its place among the nations of the earth through the grim desola-
tion and prolonged sacrifices of war, and, ordained of God, it entered upon its destiny
as a government of liberty and free institutions. It has survived the perils of outward
violence, and the wild storms and bloody conflict of internal strife. It has grown from
three millions of people to forty-four millions ; from a few scattered colonies it has be-
come an empire reaching from ocean to ocean, and bounded on the one hand by perpet-
ual snows, and on the other by perpetual verdure.

'' We remember with pride the sacrifices and the self-denial of the men of Bedford in
1776, and the losses sustained and grevious burdens borne by them in the War of the Rev-
olution. A feeling of deep sadness mingles with the pride with which we recall the
noble army which New Bedfoad sent to the War of the Rebellion, and many of us will
carry to our graves a heavy sense of loss and grief for those who never came back to us.

" The son of New Bedford who one hundred years hence may review the history of
his city, will with proud satisfaction dwell upon the loyalty of this people and the con-
tributions made by them in men and money for the preservation of the Union. The
Roll of Honor bears the names of 3,200 men furnished by New Bedford to the army and
navy, tjeing 1,110 more than her quota under all the calls made upon her. Some of
those names will never disappear from our history, for they gave their lives in patriotic
devotion to their country. Rodman, Howland, Brown, Almy, and many others, born
and reared upon our soil, are enrolled among the martyrs who died that our flag might
still wave a symbol of freedom and the equal rights of all mankind.

" Tlie memory of the heroism and the patriotic devotion of those who struggled for
our independence, and of those who gallantly contended for the preservation of the na-
tional union stirs our blood and arouses our emulation. We remember the brave men

INCIDENTS OF INTEREST. 381

•who would not be trampled on by tyranny, and the loyal men whosufi'ered to perpetu-
ate free institutions. We cannot forget the record, and we ought not to forget it. It
inspires us with faithfulness and determination to meet the needs and requirements of
the coming age ; it stimulates us to labor strenuously for the highest welfare of our
country, believing that America holds in trust the destinies of the world. We are de-
scended from a noble ancestry. We are proud of their achievements, and their history
incites us to effort. Our birthright, this inheritance of the principles and sentiments
which have made the republic great, imposes upon us grave responsibilities."

In October, 1876, the whaling industry sustained a severe blow in the
loss of twelve ships in the Arctic Ocean. The details of this unfortu-
nate affair are given in the chapter on the whale fishery.

The years 1876 and 1877 were notable in the growth and develop-
ment of the city. A large number of streets were opened, many new
buildings were erected, and general prosperity characterized all business
enterprise. The only exception to this tide of progress was a strike of
the employees of the Wamsutta Mills. The differences were at last re-
moved, and work was resumed May i, 1877. The strike proved to be
a disastrous one to all concerned; but its lessons of bitter experience
afforded some compensation, for no strike of equal magnitude has since
occurred in this community. Potomska Mill No. 2 was built in 1877,
and local prosperity continued in spite of the general financial depression
of this period.

On the 1 2th of October, 1878, a severe gale blew down several sheds
and many trees and fences, and a number of boats in the harbor were
destroyed. It was the most severe gale since that of 1869. The bark
Sarah sailed that morning on a whaling voyage and when about forty
miles off Block Island, she was carried down in the gale and was lost.

On the 17th of December, a public meeting was held, at which the
project of erecting a new opera house was for the first time considered.

Early in Januar)-, 1879, the railroad passed under the control of the
Old Colony corporation.

Of the history of New Bedford during the last decade there is noth-
ing to record but a few features and incidents, all of which indicate the
most encouraging prospect of future growth and prosperit}-. These
may be summarized as follows :

The Pairpoint Manufacturing Company began business in 1880, and
the following year added a second building to their plant.

382 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

In 1 88 1 the Southern Massachusetts Telephone Company was organ-
ized, and the telephone was introduced into the city. In July, the New
Bedford Co-operative Bank was organized.

In 1882 the Acushnet Mills Corporation was organized, and a mill
was built in the following year. The Grinnell Manufacturing Company
and the Oneko wdolen-mills were incorporated. The city made many
important street extensions during this year.

The year 1884 saw the organization of the New Bedford Manufactur-
ing Company, and their mill was erected in the same year. The New
Bedford Board of Trade was organized in March.

In 1885 the city made extensive street improvements and new sewers,
the most important of the latter being that in North street west of
Cedar, which abated a long-existing nuisance in that part of the city.
A special appropriation was made also for the further improvement of
the Point road.

The Edison Illuminating Company located a plant here in 1886, and
began supplying light and power in July of the same year.

In 1887 the New Bedford Safe Deposit and Trust Companj' was in-
corporated. The city purchased a tract of land and erected city stables,
and the Oak Grove Cemetery was enlarged, in this year.

In 1888 the Hathaway Manufacturing Company was organized (in
December), and their mill was erected in 1889. In April, 1888, the
City Manufacturing Company was organized, and a mill was begun in
December. The Rowland Mills were also established in this year.
The New Bedford Clearing House was established on the ist of Sep-
tember.

The year 1889 saw the organization of the Bennett Manufacturing
Company, and the beginning of the erection of the first mill; the sec-
ond followed soon afterwards. The Acushnet Co-operative Bank was
organized on the 15th of November. All the foregoing institutions are
described in detail in subsequent chapters of this work.

The foregoing pages of this chapter, giving brief annals of the more
important events and proceedings in the city's growth during the past
twenty- five years, show that it has been a period of rapid transition
from its former conditions to the formation of one of the important
manufacturing centers of the Commonwealth. This period has wit-

NECROLOGY. 383

nessed, as has been observed, the introduction of modern ideas into the
city government; modern methods of transportation; improved con-
struction of streets ; modern facilities for Hghting ; and many other
improvements that go to. constitute a progressive American city. New
Bedford is becoming important also as a summer resort and especially
as a gateway to several beautiful and popular seaside homes. The
Mattapoisett shores, Onset and its beautiful bay, the Buzzards Bay
shores, Wood's Holl, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket are attracting
every year larger numbers of those who are learning the value and profit
of leaving their cares for a time; and many of these people visit New
Bedford. The resident of the New Bedford of modern days is in all re-
spects to be congratulated on the bright prospects of his home.

In continuation of lists in preceding pages, the following is a partial
record of names of prominent citizens, with the years of their death.
Many names that would otherwise appear herein, are included in the
succeeding chapters on various topics, and in the later biographical de-
partment of the work :

1841. — Joseph Dunbar.

1849. — Jireh Perry.

1850. — Cornelius Grinnell.

1851. — Benjamin Congdon.

1852. — Roland R. Crocker, Dudley Davenport, George Howland.

1853 — John Coggeshall, Job Eddy, John A. Parker, Mark B. Palmer.

1854. — Jethro Hillman.

1855. — Charles Grinnell.

1857. — Joseph Congdon, John C. Haskell, Jireh Swift, Frederick
Parker.

1858.— Asa R. Nye, Paul Kempton.

1859. — Robert Ingraham, William Hussey, Charles Haftbrds, Hervey
Sulllngs, John Perkins.

i860. — Ezra S. Kempton, Joseph Davis, Rev. Asa Kent, Humphrey
Nye, Leonard Macomber, Calvin Staples.

1 86 1 — Charles W. Morgan, PZlisha W. Kempton, Benjamin Tucker,
Hayden Coggeshall, James Howland 2d, Benjamin R. Almy.

1862, — Andrew Robeson. Job Shaw, Franklin Tobey, Stephen Taber,
Isaac C. Taber, Stephen N. Potter, Henry C. Kelley, John Hunt.

384 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

1863. — Rev. Nathan Paine, Bethuel Penniman, Ephraim Kempton,
George M. Eddy, Henry Cannon, Benjamin Cummings.

1864. — Capt. Latham Cross, J. B. King, Robert Bennett, Nathaniel
Perry, Clothier Pierce, Dr. Aaron Cornish, Tucker Damon, A. Sydney
Rowland.

1865. — Cornelius Howland, George G. Chase, Philip Cannon, Edward
Mott Robinson, Willard Nye, Southward Potter, J. H. W. Page, Dr.
Lyman Bartlett, Thomas Bennett.

1866. — James Cannon, Warren Delano, William Gifford, Eli Haskell,
Rev. Sylvester Holmes, Timothy R. Cushman, Rev. Timothy Stowe,
William Whippey, Joseph R. Shiverick.

1867. — Zachariah Hillman, Rev. Benjamin K. Sayer, Capt. Barton
Ricketson, Paul Ewer, William G. Gordon, Ale.x. Gibbs, Thomas A.
Green, Rev. John Girdwood, Benjamin B. Howard, Abraham H. How-
land, Obed Sherman.

1868. — Henry P. Willis, Joseph Wilcox, Andreas Thorup, Samuel
Leonard, Rev. Wheelock Craig, Kelley S. Eldridge, George Hussy,
Capt. Arthur Cox, Philip Menage, James H. Mendall.

1869. — Jacob L. Porter, Nathaniel Nye, Nehemiah Leonard, Lemuel
Williams, Joshua C. Stone, Capt. Abraham Gardner, Francis S. Hath-
away.

1870 — Cephas Cobb, Rodman Howland, Borden Wood, Ezekiel
Sawin.

1 87 1. — Jacob Parker, Gideon Richmond, Loum Snow, Pardon Til-
linghast, William A. Dana, Isaac Case, John Goodspeed, William
Cranston, Abraham Barker, Ivory H. Bartlett.

1872. — William Cummings, Nathan Durfee, George Hussey, jr.,
John M. Hathaway, William Beetle, William T. Russell, James A.
Tripp, William A. Robinson, Martin Pierce, Allen Lucas, Zenas Whitte-
more, James B. Wood, Benj. Rider, Tilson Wood, William Penn How-
land.

1873. — Thomas B. Wiiite, Daniel Wood, Benjamin Rider, Pardon
Potter, James Harper, Sherman White, Abraham Delano, Joseph C.
Grinnell, Isaac D. Hall, John Briggs.

1874. — Jabez Delano, Elijah H. Chisholm, Jonathan P. Lund, James
Rider, Andrew Robeson, jr., Caleb T. Sullivan, Capt. F. A. Stall.

NECROLOGY. 385

1875. — Gideon Nye, Cuftee Lawton, Caleb Anthony, James H. Col-
lins, Edmund Gardner.

1876. — Joseph Knowles, Marsena Washburn, Robert Earle, William

C. Taber, Benjamin Rodman, Samuel Rodman, Joseph S. Tillinghast,
Edmund Maxfield, Simpson Hart.

1877. — Rufus Sherman, Thomas Knowles.

1878. — Thomas S. Hathaway, Gideon Allen, David Wood, Dennis
Wood, Obed Nye, Edward L. Baker, Charles Hitch.

1879. — H. G. Ricketson, W. H. Reynard, Elias Sampson, Hiram
Webb, Elisha Thornton, jr., Samuel Watson, Edward W. Howland,
Henry T. Leonard, Samuel Watson, Joseph Brownell, David R. Greene.

1880. — Nathan Johnson, Walter Spooner, Elisha Haskell, Charles M.
Pierce, William H. Taylor, James B. Congdon, William G. Blackler,
Edward C. Jones, Wright Brownell, Otis Seabury, Henry F. Thomas.

1881.— C. L. Wood, Rev. Moses How, W. H. Jenney, Ward M. Parker.

1882. — Andrew Craigie, Thomas Nye, jr., Jonathan Howland,
Stephen G. Driscoll, Joseph Tabor, Caleb Kempton.

1883. — Henry T. Wood, Daniel Thornton, Joshua Richmond, John
A. Hawes, William H. Allen, Frederick P. Shaw, John H. Perry.

1884. — Matthew Howland, James Howland, Edward Merrill, Amasa
Whitney.

1885. — Horatio A. Kempton, Abraham Russell, Benjamin Russell,
W. A. Wall, Joseph Grinnell, William Hathaway, Alfred Kempton.

1886.— Joseph C. Delano, William Phillips, W. C. Tobin, Oliver
Swain, Benjamin Pitman.

1887.— William Tallman, jr., A. H. Howland, jr., Charles Taber.

1888.— Seth K. Aikin, William Ingalls, Henry R. Wilcox, Ambrose
Vincent, Cyrus W. Chapman, Alanson Williston, Niles Tilden, Lemuel
Kollock, Dr. Charles Swasey, Timothy D. Cook, Benjamin F. Howland.

1889. — R. C. Topham, Rev. James D. Butler, Joseph W. Cornell,
Elisha Dunbar, Joseph Tillinghast, David B. Wilcox, Thomas Cogge-
shall, Henry J. Taylor.

1890. — Thomas Cook, Nathaniel Gilbert, Josiah Holmes, jr.. Col. A.

D. Hatch, Charles P. Seabury, Charles Tucker, B. F. H. Reed, Oliver
Prescott.

1891. — Thomas Durfee, Thomas M. James, Robert C. Pitman.

386 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

The following table shows the growth of population in New Bedford
and its vicinity, from the year 1790 to the present time :

New Bedford.

Fairhaven.

New Bedford.

Fairhaven.

Acushnet.

1790

3,313

1860 22,300

3,118

1,387

1800

4,361

1865 20,853

2,547

1,251

1810 . . . .

5,651

1870 21,320

2,626

1,132

1820

3,947

2,733
3,034

1875 25,895

1880... . 26,845

2,768
2,875

1,059

1830

7,592

1,105

1840. ...

12,087

3,951

1885 33,393

2,880

1,071

1850

lfi,443

4,304

1890 40.733

1855

20,389

4,693

Probable population of New Bedford in 1891, 45,000.
CITY OFFICERS — 1847-189I.

1S47. — Mayor, Abraham H. Howland. Aldermen, John Avery
Parker, Thomas B. White, Ivory H. Bartlett, William H. Taylor, James

B. Wood, Edward W. Howland.

1848. — Mayor, Abraham H. Howland. Aldermen, Thomas Nye, jr.,
Thomas B. White, Ivory H. Bartlett, William H. Taylor, Jonathan
Bourne, jr., Edward W. Howland.

1849. — Mayor, Abraham H. Howland. Aldermen, Joseph Clark,
William F. Dow, Jonathan R. Ward, Ivory H. Bartlett, Jonathan
Bourne, jr., Edward W. Howland.

1850. — Mayor. Abraham H. Howland. Aldermen, Joseph Clark,
William F. Dow, Jonathan R. Ward, Ivory H. Bartlett, Jonathan
Bourne, jr., Edward W. Howland.

185 1. — Mayor, Abraham H. Howland. Aldermen, Joseph Clark,
Isaac M. West, Jonathan R. Ward, Mark B. Palmer, Jonathan Bourne,
jr., Henry H. Crapo.

1852. — Mayor, William J. Rotch. Aldermen, Thomas Nye, jr.,
Isaac M. West, Wilmot Luce, Mark B. Palmer, Jonathan Bourne, jr.,
Henr)' H. Crapo.

1853. — Mayor, Rodney French. Aldermen, James Beetle, Aaron

C. Cushman, Isaac C. Taber, John A. P. Allen. Jireh L. Ferguson,
Marshall G. Sears.

1854. — Mayor, Rodney French. Aldermen, James Beetle, Aaron
C. Cushman, Thomas N. Allen, Joseph Brownell, Isaac C. Taber, Mar-
shall G. Sears.

CITY OFFICERS. 387

1855. — Mayor, George Howland, jr. Aldermen, Edward Milliken,
James Wheaton, Asa R. Nye, Jacob L. Porter, Oliver Swain, Cranston
Willcox.

1856. — Mayor, George Howland, jr. Aldermen, Charles Almy,
James H. Mendall, Thomas Willcox, Jacob L. Porter, Simpson Hart,
Alanson Williston.

1857. — Mayor, George H. Dunbar. Aldermen, Sherman White,
Hiram Van Campen, Thomas Willcox, John A. P. Allen, Elisha Thorn-
ton, jr., Henry T. Wood.

1858, — Mayor, George H. Dunbar. Aldermen, Sherman White,
Calvin Staples, Thomas N. Allen, Joseph Brownell, John Hicks, Henry
T. Wood.

1859. — Mayor, Willard Nye. Aldermen, Sherman White, Calvin
Staples, Cyrus W. Chapman, John Hastings, John Hunt, Henry T.
Wood.

i860. — Mayor, Isaac C. Taber. Aldermen, Joseph W. Cornell,
James L Humphrey, Nathan Lewis, John Hastings, John Hunt, Will-
iam H. Reynard.

1 86 1. — Mayor, Isaac C. Taber. Aldermen, Warren Ladd, James L.
Humphrey, Nathan Lewis, John P. Barker, Matthew Howland, Will-
iam H. Reynard.

1862. — Mayor, Isaac C. Taber. Aldermen, Warren Ladd, Bethuel
Penniman, jr., Nathan Lewis, John P. Barker, Matthew Howland, Will-
iam H. Reynard.

1863. — Mayor, George Howland, jr. Aldermen, Warren Ladd,
George G. Gifibrd, Ambrose Vincent, John P. Barker, Matthew How-
land, John H. Perry.

1864. — Mayor, George Howland, jr. Aldermen, Warren Ladd,
George G. Gifford, Ambrose Vincent, John P. Barker, Matthew How-
land, John H. Perry.

1865. — Mayor, George Howland, jr. Aldermen, Warren Ladd,
Goorge G. Gifford, Joseph Knowles, Geo. F. Kingman, Matthew How-
land, John H. Perry.

1866. — Mayor, John H.Perry. Aldermen, Caleb Hammond, Geo.
G. Gifford, Joseph Knowles, George F. Kingman, John B. Baylies,
Weston Howland.

388 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

1867. — Mayor, John H. Perry. Aldermen, Caleb Hammond, Joseph
Buckminster, George G. Gifford, George F. Kingman, John B. Baylies,
Samuel Leonard, jr.

1 868. — Mayor, Andrew G. Pierce. Aldermen, Joseph H. Cornell,
Ellis Perry, Elijah H. Chisholm, George H. Dunbar, John B. Baylies,
Samuel Leonard, jr.

1869. — Mayor, Andrew G. Pierce. Aldermen, Joseph H. Cornell, Ellis
Perry, Charles H. Taber, Elijah H. Chisholm, William H. Sherman,
Isaac C. Sherman.

1870. — Mayor, George B. Richmond. Aldermen, Joshua W. Frost,
Joseph Buckminster, George G. Gifford, Caleb L. Ellis, Humphrey W.
Seabury, Isaac C. Sherman.

1 87 1. — Mayor, George B. Richmond. Aldermen, Joshua W. Frost,
Joseph Buckminster, George G. Gifford, Caleb L. Ellis, George Wilson,
Samuel C. Hart.

1872. — Mayor, George B. Richmond. Aldermen, William Bosworth,
Joseph Buckminster, Joseph Knowles, Caleb L. Ellis, Augustus H.
Greene, Samuel C. Hart.

1873. — Mayor, George H. Dunbar. Aldermen, Joseph H. Cornell,
Edward R. Milliken, Henry H. Fisher, Andrew G. Pierce, Frederick S.
Allen, Thomas B. Tripp.

1874. — Mayor, George B. Richmond. Aldermen, William J. Kil-
burn, Joseph Buckminster, Joseph Knowles, Joseph R. Read, Augustus
A. Greene, Soloman Chadwick.

1875. — Mayor, Abraham H. Howland, jr. Aldermen, William J.
Norton, William T. Soule, J. Augustus Brownell, James D. Thompson,
John B. Baylies, George R. Stetson.

1876. — Mayor, Abraham H. Howland, jr. Aldermen, Jonathan C.
Hawes, William T. Soule, William G. Taber, J. Augustus Brownell,
John B. Baylies, George R. Stetson.

1877. — Mayor, Alanson Borden. Aldermen, James E. .Stanton, Sa-
vory C. Hathaway, James C. Stafford, John Hastings, George How-
land, jr., Henry T. Wood.

1878. — Mayor, George B. Richmond. Aldermen, James E. Stanton,
Savory C. Hathawa)', Isaac W. Benjamin, John Hastings, Augustus H.
Greene, Shearjashub T. Viall.

CITY OFFICERS. 389

1879. — Mayor, William T. Soule. Aldermen, Otis A. Sisson, Eben
C. Milliken, Isaac W. Benjamin, Andrew R. Palmer, William H. Sher-
man, Shearjashub T. Viall.

1880. — Mayor, William T. Soule. Aldermen, John Wing, John
McCullough, Caleb Hammond, Thomas W. Cook, William H. Sherman,
John P. Taylor.

1 88 1. — Mayor, George Wilson. Aldermen, James E. Stanton, Isaac
N. Marshall, James C Stafford, Thomas H. Knowles, Samuel C. Hart,
William H. Besse.

1882. — Mayor, George Wilson. Aldermen, John Wing, John Mc-
Cullough, James C. Stafford, Atwood Holmes, Dana B. Humphrey,
Thomas Donaghy.

1883. — Mayor, George Wilson. Aldermen, Andrew B. Hathaway,
John McCullough, James C. Stafford, Stephen W. Hayes, Robert W.
Taber, Thomas Donaghy.

i884.^Mayor, George Wilson. Aldermen, Andrew B. Hathaway,
Benjamin F. Hathaway, jr., James C. Stafford, Stephen W. Hayes, Rob-
ert W. Taber, John P. Taylor.

1885. — Mayor, Morgan Rotch. Aldermen, Benjamin Dawson, Chas.
W. Coggeshall, Benjamin F. Brownell, Edward T. Pierce, Wendell H.
Cobb, Edwin Dews.

t886. — Mayor, Morgan Rotch. Aldermen, Benjamin Dawson, Chas.
W. Coggeshall, Benjamin F. Brownell, Edward T. Pierce, Wendell H.
Cobb, Edwin Dews.

1887. — Mayor, Morgan Rotch. Aldermen, Simeon Hawes, Charles
W. Coggeshall, Charles S. Ashley, Edward T. Pierce, Wendell H. Cobb,
Monroe Holcomb.

1888. — Mayor, Morgan Rotch. Aldermen, James E. Stanton,
Charles W. Coggeshall, Charles S. Ashley, Stephen A. Brownell, Wen-
dell H. Cobb, Monroe Holcomb.

1889.— Mayor, Walter Clifford. Aldermen, Luther G. Hewins, jr.,
Charles F. Shaw, Benjamin V . Brownell, Edward T. Pierce, James De-
lano, John Welch.

1890. — Mayor, Walter Clifford. Aldermen, Luther G. Hewins, jr.,
Charles F. Shaw, Benjamin F. Brownell, Stephen A. Brownell, James
Delano, Ezekiel C. Gardiner.

HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

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DIVISION OF DARTMOUTH. 391

1 891. — Mayor, Charles S. Ashley. Aldermen, John Wing, Henry
C. Hathaway, Wendell H. Cobb, Stephen A. Brownell, James Delano,
Ezekiel C. Gardiner.

1892. — Mayor, Charles S. Ashley. Aldermen, Allen Russell, jr.,
Henry C. Hathaway, Charles H. Brownell, Stephen A. Brownell, Will-
iam H. Sherman, William H. Rankin.

CHAPTER XXI.

TOWNS ADJOINING NEW BEDFORD.

Original Territory of Dartmoutli — The Act of Separation — Fairhaven — West-
port — Dartmouth — Acushnet.

THE history of the towns which were originally a part of the town-
ship of Dartmouth is necessarily interwoven with that of the city
of New Bedford. The foregoing pages of this work have dealt, there-
fore, with the history in which all these towns have shared. It remains
to briefly chronicle the important events which have occurred during
the years subsequent to the separation of these towns from the old
township.

In 1787 Dartmouth, which then included the present territory of
Acushnet, Dartmouth, Westport, Fairhaven, and New Bedford, was
divided into three town organizations, namely, Dartmouth, Westport,
and New Bedford. The domain now included in the town of Fairhaven
was a part of New Bedford. It is not necessary to rehearse the causes
that led to their separation from each other, as these causes have been
dwelt upon in former pages, and the reader is already familiar with the
political and local events indicating the existence of a strife that began
in the period of the Revolution, and which continued to the commence-
ment of the second war with England. It was the violent political agi-
tation incident to the latter contest that precipitated the separation into
distinct townships. The act of separation was passed by the General
Court, February 22, 1812, a few months prior to the declaration of war.

392 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

The early records of the town of Fairhaven were destroyed in tlie
great gale of 1815 ; and not until the year 18 16 can there be found any
list of town officers. The board of selectmen for that year consisted of
Bartholomew Aiken, James Taber, and Joseph Wheeden. A complete
list of the selectmen who have served the town down to the present
time will be found in the appendix. Like New Bedford, Fairhaven was
devoted to the prosecution of the whale fishery, and the town grew and
prospered during the palmy days of the enterprise. Its wharves were
centers of activity in fitting out the fleet of whaling vessels, and the
people found profitable employment in the ship-yards, shops, and ware-
houses. Scores of its citizens became officers and seamen, and their
ships brought home profitable returns. The little village grew apace ;
and the comfortable homes now scattered throughout the town are the
visible results of the labors of the people upon the ocean. The im-
portance of the whaling industry is seen in the fact that in 1S37 there
were thirty-seven vessels belonging to Fairhaven, employing a capital
of $950,000, and nearly one thousand men. In 1858 the fleet num-
bered forty-eight vessels, and their voyages were very profitable. The
succession of returning vessels and the refitting of them for new voyages
made the village teem with enterprise and thrift. Statistics show that
from 1832 to 1 86 1 there were from eight to sixteen vessels which re-
turned to Fairhaven each year from whaling voyages. The success of
this industry was contemporary with that of New Bedford, and so was
its decline and final abandonment.

While Fairhaven has not introduced manufacturing industries to a
very large extent, yet many of its later enterprises have prospered, and
the town has grown in population. It is to-day one of the most beauti-
ful and picturesque in New England. There is little to record in its
history during the years that followed its incorporation. Its develop-
ment has been similar to that of many of the seaport towns of this
section of the country — a gradual and steady growth in which has been
developed all that makes them delightful abodes of comfort and refine-
ment. It is only necessary to note some of the more interesting and
important events that belong to Fairhaven's later history.

In the great gale of 181 5 the village suffered much. The tide rose
to a great height, inundating the lower part of the town. Several store-

FAIR HA VEN. 393

houses on the wharves were carried awa)-, and many bouses were
injured.

The town meetings were held at tlie Ilead-of-the-River during the
early years of the village ; but about 1832 they began to be held in the
Academy building which is still standing. Its distance from the north-
ern part of the town, however, made it inconvenient for many voters ;
and so a new town-house was erected in 1843, on land near the Wood-
side Cemetery. This town-house was destroyed b}' fire in 1848.

The decade following the year 1832 was marked by an increase in
the number of streets opened and of buildings erected — a legitimate re-
sult of the prosperity that attended the whaling industry. Many high-
ways were improved, sidewalks laid and curbed, and other public
improvements carried out. In 1850 the Riverside Cemeter)-, one of the
most beautiful for location and natural scenery in this vicinity, was pre-
sented to the town by Warren Delano, an honored descendant of one of
the old families of the town.

In 1854 the Fairhaven Branch Railroad was opened, connecting with
the Cape Cod Railroad, thus giving a direct route to Boston. Previous
to this date passengers were carried by coach to the New Bedford and
Taunton Railroad. A steam ferry plied for many years between Fair-
haven and New Bedford, and continued until the street railway was put
in operation in 1872.

The civil war brought to Fairhaven its legacy of depression, disaster,
and mourning. The decrease of the whale fishery at that time added
to the general discouragement, and the condition of affairs was almost
hopeless. The calls for defenders of the American Union found a re-
sponse in the hearts of the people, and an honorable list of names is
recorded in the annals of the civil war belonging to the town. In the
Riverside Cemetery stands a monument in granite, erected to the mem-
ory of the loyal dead of Fairhaven.

In spite of all discouragements the town has not only held its own,
but it has continued to grow in proportions and in beauty. The in-
creased facilities for travel have brought employment near at hand ; and
its sightly places have been secured by many well-to-do citizens and
former dwellers. The Fairhaven Improvement Society, organized in
1885, has done effective work in beautifying the village and in saving

394 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

many of its attractive natural features, and has made them seductive
spots to the many visitors who frequent the locality in summer. Tiie
good offices of the society continue in a vigorous life whicli is sure to
produce further beneficent results.

The town has received many aids from its sons who gratefully remem-
ber their place of birth, and who hold in precious regard the memories
that cluster about the town. Among those is one whose benefactions
are deserving of the broadest recognition, and whose generous gifts to
his native town will ever remain fruitful sources of instruction and help
to the present and to coming generations.

Henry Huddleston Rogers was born in Fairhaven, January 29, 1840.
His early education was obtained in the public schools of the town, and
he was graduated from the High School April 11, 1856. In 1861 he
removed to the oil regions of Pennsylvania, where for several years he
was occupied with pursuits incident to the development of that remark-
able industry. It is an interesting fact that his subsequent good fortune
came from the very enterprise that had, to a large degree, served to
destroy the great industry of his native town. He removed to New
York city in 1868 and was further engaged in the petroleum business
with the late Charles Pratt, under the name of Charles Pratt & Co. A
few years later the affairs of the firm were associated with those of the
Standard Oil Company, of Ohio. In 1882 the combined business of
the two concerns, with that of others of a kindred character, was united
by an agreement which placed the properties of the whole under con-
trol of a board of trustees. This was known as the Standard Oil Trust,
and Mr. Rogers was one of the board of trustees. He now occupies
numerous positions of honor and trust connected with financial insti-
tutions, banks, and railroads. His permanent home is in New York
citv, but he has a sunmier residence on Fort street, in Fairhaven village.

Mr. Rogers has alvva\'s maintained a deep and abiding interest in his
native town, and has made and continues to make practical demonstra-
tions of his sincere regard for the place. In 1885 he presented to the
town the Rogers School building, which is thoroughly equipped with
all modern appliances for educational purposes. His children are erect-
ing the Millicent Library building, as a memorial of their deceased sister,
Millicent Gifford Rogers. The structure is now approaching comple-

'^^l^

^-2^£^/ U-'?^

FAIRHA VEN. 395

tion and when finished will be a beautiful as well a most useful addition
to Fairhaven. A town hall is also in progress of erection, which is to
be the gift of Mrs. Rogers. These benefactions demonstrate the regard
felt by Mr. Rogers for the town, as well as his practical sagacity in do-
ing that which is certain to bring the greatest possible good in tlie future.

While occupying a position in the foremost rank of financial men of
the country, Mr. Rogers retains and exhibits his inborn democratic
nature in all his intercourse with his friends and neighbors in Fairhaven.
He is genial and approachable at all proper times and commands the
utmost good will and respect of all intelligent citizens of the town.

The ecclesiastical history of Fairhaven dates back to the earliest years
of the Dartmouth township, and many interesting events relative to the
church detailed in former pages are connected with families whose de-
scendants are prominently associated with present church organizations.
The First Congregational Church was organized about 1794, and its
first meeting-house was erected on the site now occupied by the Phoenix
building, on the northeast corner of Main and Centre streets. The belfry
and some other portions of the present building were part of the origi-
nal edifice. In 1844-45 tl^s society erected the brick edifice which is
now occupied by them. Rev. Harvey B. Greene is the present pastor.

The Washington Street Christian (Unitarian) Church was organized
in 1832, and the present edifice was dedicated in the same year. The
society was in existence several years prior to this date and worshiped
in the Academy Hall. Rev. Don C. Stevens is the pastor.

The Methodist Episcopal Church began its existence when its first
meeting-house was erected and dedicated in 1830. A permanent or-
ganization was effected in 1832. In 1849 the society purcliased the
edifice left vacant by the Centre Congregational societ}-. (The latter
organization consisted of a irumber of persons who in 1841 withdrew
from the First Congregational Church, and erected this building.) The
original building owned by the Methodists still stands. It has for many
years been owned by the town and is used for the High School. Rev.
N. C. Alger is now the pastor.

The Second Advent Society was the outgrowth of a series of meet-
ings held in 1842, by adherents of that faith. The meetings were held
in private houses and in Fountain Hall. About 1866 the society was

396 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

permanently organized, and the present house of worship, formerly
Sawin's Hall, was purchased.

The Friends' meeting-house, built in 1849, is situated on Bridge
street. The Society of Friends never had a strong foothold in the town,
and but few families have been connected with this meeting Occa-
sional services are held in the hall.

The financial interests of Fairhaven are well cared for by the Fair-
haven National Bank, incorporated in 1831, and reorganized in 1864.
Its capital is $120,000 and its present ofificers are Chas. H. Morton, pres-
ident ; Reuben Nye, cashier. The Fairhaven Institution for Savings
was incorporated in 1832. George H. Taber is now president and
Chas. H. Morton treasurer,

The American Tack Company, which has been a flourishing organi-
zation since its incorporation in 1867, has been merged with other kin-
dred industries, located in other cities, into the Atlas Tack Corporation.
It continues to do a thriving business, and is now the most important
manufacturing industry in the town.

The Fairhaven Star, a weekly newspaper published by C. D. Wal-
drom, was established in 1879, and is a sprightly sheet and ably con-
ducted.

The fire department is well organized and has one steam fire engine
and other modern apparatus.

The marine railway is an important factor in the maritime affairs of
the town. Its convenient facilities are in constant use in the season by
the scores of vessels and yachts that visit the harbor.

Boat building is carried on to a limited degree.

The public schools of Fairhaven are sufficient in number, and are well
conducted. The addition of the Rogers School gives the town advant-
ages for tlie instruction of youth that are unsurpassed by those of many
New England towns.

WEST PORT.

The territory of this town, once a part of the township of Dartmouth,
was separated into a distinct township in 1787. Its previous history is
substantially told in the early chapters of this book, as it was a part of

-4/^^ :4ya^

€/}^

WESTPORT.

397

old Dartmouth. The first town meeting of Westport was held August
20, 1787, when William Almy, Richard Kirby, and Edward Borden
were chosen selectmen, and Abner Brownell, town clerk. Other offi-
cers were chosen, and the machinery of local government was put in
operation, which has continued without change for more than a century.
The Indian name of this town was Acoaxet. Its early people were of
the true New England type who made Dartmouth famous in the early
days for its sturdy character and rigid adherence to the principles of true
liberty and of religious freedom.

The boundary lines of Westport bear such relations to the other parts
of the county as to preclude its growth into a manufacturing center. At
one time the town was engaged somewhat in maritime pursuits. It was
from an early date interested in the whaling industry, grew and pros-
pered with its development, and with its decline settled down into one
of the most delightful villages in southern Massachusetts. Its people
are well-to-do, its farms broad in extent and productive, and its shores
afford good harbors. Its natural advantages as a summer resort have
found a just appreciation, and its sea clifis are dotted uith cottages and
summer homes.

The principal villages of the town of Westport are Westport Factory,
Head of- Westport, and Westport Point. At the first named place is
situated the Westport Manufacturing Company, the only important
manufacturing plant in the town. It has been in operation many years
and has given employment to a large number of persons. Its products
are carpet- warp, twine, cotton- batting, wicking, etc.

Head- of- Westport is situated at the head of the east branch of West-
port River and is largely devoted to agriculture.

Westport Point is situated in the southern part of the town between
the east and west branches of the river. It was at one time engaged in
the whaling industry, and many vessels were owned there and sailed
from the port.

The church organizations of the town are as follows: The First
Christian Church at Westport, organized about 1 823- 5; the Second
Christian Church, at South Westport, organized in 1838; the Third
Christian Church, at Westport, organized in 1839; and the Third
Christian Church, at Brownell's Corner, organized in 1843. The his-

398 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

tory of the Society of Friends dates back to the middle of the last cent-
ury (1766), when it was set apart from the Dartmouth Monthly Meet-
ing under the name of Acoaxet Monthly Meeting. Its present meet-
ing-house was built in 1814. The Pacific Union Church was organized
in 1858.

In the civil war the town of Westport responded to the calls for de-
fenders of the Union and sent 250 of its citizens into the service.

DARTMOUTH.

In the division of the township of Dartmouth in 1787, the present
town of Dartmouth inherited the name and retained the largest section
of the original territory. The Pascamanset River, which rises in the
extreme northern part of New Bedford, winds through the entire length
of Dartmouth and empties into Buzzards Bay. The principal villages
of the town are Smith Mills, Russell's Mills, Padanaram, and the sum-
mer resort at Nonquitt.

Like its sister towns, Dartmouth is largely devoted to agriculture, and
valuable farms are scattered throughout its territory. In former days
the whaling industry was prosecuted to a considerable extent, and, when
the business was in its most vigorous condition, Dartmouth had a fleet
of about a dozen vessels engaged in it. Its interest in the industry was
not confined to these, as its capital was largely employed in New Bed-
ford ships, and many of its citizens were officers and seamen connected
with them.

The first manufacturing industry was established in the original
township, at Russell's Mills, by Ralph Russell, one of the earliest set-
tlers. He came from England and erected an iron forge at that point,
which received its name from him. The village is situated on the
east side of Slocum's River, and its vicinity is noted for the beauty of
the scenery.

Among the historic spots within the town limits is Russell's Garrison,
which has been described in earlier pages. There John Russell was
born during the early trouble with the Indians, the inhabitants having
fled to the shelter of the garrison for safety.

The first meeting-house of the Society of Friends was built in 1699,
on the same site now occupied by the one at Apponagansett. The First

DARTMOUTH— ACUSHNET.

399

Christian Church, at Hixville, was organized in 1780, by Elder Jacob
Hix, of Rehoboth, and his brother, Daniel Hix, was installed as the first
pastor in 1781. The Congregational Church at Padanaram village was
organized in 1807. Its first pastor was Rev. Daniel Emerson, who died
soon after his installation. The South Dartmouth Baptist Church was
organized in 183 1, but the meeting-house has now been closed for
several years. The Second Christian Church in the town is located at
Russell's Mills and was organized in 1836. The Methodist Episcopal
Church at the head of Apponagansett River, was organized in 1838.
Rev. James D. Butler was the first pastor. The church is now under
the care of the Allen Street M. E. Church in New Bedford. Smith
Mills Christian Church was organized in 1838; and the Christian Church
at Bakerville was organized in 1865.

A beautiful library building, the gift of the late John H. Southworth,
was erected in South Dartmouth village and dedicated February i, 1890.
It is furnished with a creditable library and is destined to be of perma-
nent value to the town.

The shores of Dartmouth are dotted with cottages, which are the
summer homes of many who find health and pleasure in ocean breezes
and in the fishing and bathing facilities which have given the locality a
wide reputation.

ACUSHNET.

When the town of Fairhaven was set off from New Bedford in 181 2,
the territory now included in Acushnet was a part of its domain. It so
remained until the year i860, when, after several years of agitation, a
division of the town was finally made, and an act incorporating the town
of Acushnet was passed by the General Court February 13, i860. The
first town meeting was held March 14, when Cyrus E. Clark, Benjamin
Wilson, and Benjamin White were chosen selectmen, assessors, and
overseers of the' poor. Like the other towns that were once a part of
ancient Dartmouth, the early history of Acushnet has already been given
in preceding chapters of this volume. The business of the town is
largely agricultural, though there are several saw-mills that turn out
large quantities of box boards and shingles. The stream that enters
the Acushnet River supplies power for a number of these mills. In early

400 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

years of the town's history there was a factory on this stream, in which
Joseph Rotch and Job Eddy made the first bed-ticking manufactured by
water-power in this country.

In the prosperous days of the whale fishery, the manufacture of whale
boats was carried on here by Ebenezer Leonard. Hundreds of these
boats were brought on trucks, six miles, to New Bedford.

The pleasant Acushnet village has steadily enlarged its borders, new
highways and residences have multiplied, and it would seem that with
the steady growth of New Bedford to the northward, not many years
will elapse before both will be united in one compact city. The Acush-
net of the past is rich in historic associations; and the town will ever
hold in memory its important relations' to the romantic traditions of the
township of Dartmouth. It was Acushnet village that gave Dr. Samuel
West to the country in the American Revolution, one of the greatest
men of the times; and many other historic names are found in the lists
of Revolutionary soldiers from Dartmouth. One of the most ancient
and interesting burial grounds in this section is the Acushnet Cemetery.
It is the resting place not only of the early settlers of Dartmouth, but
of some of those of the Plymouth Colony. This cemetery has within
a few years been cleared up, avenues and foot-paths have been opened,
and trees and shrubbery trimmed. From the cemetery is afforded a
fine prospect of the beautiful scenery that borders the banks of the
Acushnet River.

The churches in Acushnet are as follows: The Congregational, Rev.
E. C. Fellows, pastor; the Methodist Episcopal, Rev. E. D. Gurney,
pastor; a second Methodist Episcopal, at Long Plain, Rev. A. S. Weeks,
pastor; and the Friends' Meeting, also at Long Plain. There are also
places of worship at " Perry Hill," known as Chfford Chapel and Whel-
den Chapel.

FIRST WHALERS.

CHAPTER XXII.

THE WHALING INDUSTRY.

Beginnings of the Industry — Early Whale Fishing in Massachusetts — Orders
and Rules Governing the Fishing — The Industry at Nantucket — The First Sperm
Whale — The Havoc Made by French and Spanish Privateers — Founding of the In-
dustry at Dartmouth — Log Book of the Betsey — Expenses of Fitting Out — Records
Previous to the Revolution — Unjust Restrictions — Burke's Defence of the Whalers
— The British Invasion — Re-establishment of the Industry by the Rotch Family —
Prosperity — The War of 1812 and its Discouraging Effects — Rapid Increase of Ves-
sels and Financial Success of the Industry up to 1858 — Effect of the California Gold
Discovery on Whaling — Petroleum — The War of the Rebellion and the Losses Oc-
casioned by it — Renewal of Whaling after the War — The Disaster of 1871 — The
Calamity of 1876 — The First Steam Whaler — Thrilling Experiences — Hon. Weston
Rowland's Account — Incidents — Profitable Voyages.

IT is recorded that the Biscayaiis pursued whale fishing durhig the
fifteenth century, and that towards its close they employed a fleet of
fifty or sixty vessels. At the period when Columbus discovered Amer-
ica the English and Dutch were engaged in the fruitless attempt to
reach India by a northeast passage. These bold navigators "in here-
tofore penetrating the icy regions met with vast numbers of whales, un-
disturbed for centuries in the peculiar and exclusive seas, tame, sluggish,
and disposed to yield as ready captives to the intruder. The navigators
determined to unite profit with pleasure, and although they inight fail
in obtaining, by their imagined passage, the spices of India, to bring
home, at least, in their vessels the products of the bear, the walrus, the
seal, and the whale. From being only the incidental, these soon be-
came the principal objects of these hazardous voyages, and the high
hopes of men, panting for the lofty names of discoverers, were merged
in the arduous toils of catching whales for profit." ^

In 1610 the English sent out their first vessel specially devoted to
the whale fishery. This was soon followed by fleets of vessels from
London and Amsterdam. Then the Spanish and French became in-

1 William Scoresby, jr., 1S20, American Review.

402 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

terested in the enterprise, and the industry grew and developed. Long
before the settlement of Plymouth Colony, in 1620, the whale fishery
was pursued by the Indians along the coast of New England. They
ventured from its shores in their frail canoes, and with their rude har-
poons captured these monsters of the deep. Among the Montauk In-
dians the most toothsome offering to their deity was the fin or the tail
of the whale ; and the Greenlander's idea of heaven, according to
Father Hennepin, was a " place where there would be an immense cal-
dron continually boiling, and each could take as much seal blubber,
ready cooked, as he wanted." It is recorded that Capt. John Smith in
1614 found whales so plenty along the coast, that he abandoned for a
time his intended enterprise of discovery, and for a time pursued the
whales. In the journal of Richard Mather, who came to Massachusetts
Bay in 1635, he says that when near New England he saw " mighty
whales spewing up water in the air, like the smoke of a chimney, and
making the sea about them white and hoary, as is said in Job, of such
incredible bigness that I will never wonder that the body of Jonah could
be in the belly of a whale." In the settlement of the colonies in Mas-
sachusetts, it was one of the important considerations that a convenient
place was afforded for the pursuit of fisheries. The charter of Massa-
chusetts made grants to certain persons, authorizing them to catch "all
fishes, royal fishes, whales, balan, sturgeon, and other fishes of what
kinde or nature soever that shall at any time hereafter be taken in or
within the saide seas or waters," etc'

Among the early questions that arose in both the Plymouth and
Massachusetts Baj' colonies was that in regard to the drift whales that
frequently came ashore. The colonial government claimed a portion,

' Another ancient prerequisite belonging to the Queen Consort, mentioned by all old writers,
and therefore only worthy of notice, is this ; that on the taking of a whale on the coasts, which is
a royal fish, it shall be divided between the King and Queen, the head only being the King's por-
tion, and the tail of it the Queen's. The reason of this whimsical division, as assigned by our an-
cient records, was to furnish the Queen's wardrobe with whalebone. — i Biackstone^s Com, Bk i, Ch,

X. A tenth branch of the King's ordinary revenue, said to be grounded on the consideration of
his guarding and protecting the seas from pirates and robbers, is the right to i-oyal Jisk, which are
whale and sturgeon ; and these, when either thrown ashore or caught near the coast, are the prop-
erty of the King, on account of their superior excellence Indeed, our ancestors seem to have en-
tertained a very high notion of the importance of this right, it being the prerogative of the Kings
of Denmark and the Dukes of Normandy, and from one of these it was probably derived to our
Princes — i Biackstoite's Com. Bk. i Ch. i^fage 290.

WHALING AT NANTUCKET. 403

and divided with the town and the finder of the whale. This matter
produced much dissatisfaction among the early settlers, especially in
the towns on Cape Cod. The troubles were brought to an end by an
agreement that the finders should " pay to the country 2 bbls. of oyle"
from each whale.

In 1662 the town of Eastham voted a portion of stranded whales on
their shore for the support of the ministry. It is certain that the col-
ony at New Plymouth found the whaling industry a source of profit,
and the business assumed such importance as to demand the appoint-
ment of inspectors of whales in 1690. The rules adopted provided
"that all whales killed or wounded, and left at sea, should be reported
to the inspectors, giving marks, time, place, etc.; all whales brought or
cast ashore, were to be viewed by them, and all questions or dispute were
decided by them." From the best authority (Starbuck), it is safe to
assert that the first organized whaling prosecution of the American
whale fishing was made along the coast of Long Island. In 1644 the
town of Southampton was divided into four wards, and eleven persons
in each were assigned the duty of attending to the drift whales cast
ashore. Two persons, who received a double share, were employed to
cut up the whale; and every inhabitant, with his child or servant, who
was above sixteen years of age, shared in the division. A new feature
of the prosecution of whale fishing was developed a few years later ;
expeditions were formed of several boats that went together for a few
weeks' voyage, sharing in the labors, dangers, and profit. An inter-
esting record is found in the archives of Massachusetts that alludes to
the sperm whale. It is a petition dated August, 1688, from Timotheus
Vanderuin, commander of the brigantine //«/// Return, of New York,
to Governor Andros, praying for " License and Permission, with one
Equipage Consisting in twelve marines, twelve whalemen, and six Din
ers — from this port, upon a fishing design about the Bohames Islands
And Cap florida for sperma Coeti whales and Racks: And so to return
for this Port." This we believe, is the first historic allusion to this par-
ticular specie ofthewhale.

Macy, in his history of Nantucket, says that the first whaling expedi-
tion from that island, was underkaken by some of the original purchas-
ers. A whale came into the harbor and continued there for three days.

404 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

The event caused great excitement among the people, who devised
means for its capture. They caused a harpoon to be made, and with it
they attacked the monster and killed it. This success gave them en-
couragement, and led to the permanent establishment of the business on
the island. Anxious to become efficient, they sent to Cape Cod for
one Ichabod Paddock, to instruct them in the best methods of killing
whales and obtaining oil. Many interesting records have been collected
concerning the whale fishing at Martha's Vineyard. ^

The methods of catching whales were the same that were employed
in the other places mentioned. This is indicated from a record of No-
vember, 1652, when Thomas Daggett and William Weeks were chosen
" whale cutters for this year." The following year " it was ordered by
the town that the whale is to be cut out freely, four men at one time and
four at another, and so every whale beginning at the east end of the
town." In 1690 Mr. Sarson and William Vinson were selected by
those entitled to shares in the whales that were cast on the shores of
Edgartown " to oversee the cutting and sharing, they to have as much
for their care, as one cutter."

At the beginningoftheeighteenth century the inhabitants of Nantucket
gave this industry such attention as to rapidly devolop a lucrative busi-
ness. The situation of the island was favorable to the enterprise, whales
being abundant in the vicinity, and it was not often that the fishermen
were obliged to go out of sight of the island. The south shore was dis-
tricted, and companies of six patrolled it, while from a mast erected on
a high point, a lookout station was maintained for observing the spout-
ing of whales. When one was captured, it was towed ashore, and after
the blubber was cut and sliced, it was tried out in try-houses located
on the beach. The first sperm whale caught by Nantucket whalemen
was in 17 1 2, when Christopher Hussey, cruising for right whales near
the land, was blown offshore, and fell in with a school of this species of
whale. He killed one of them and brought it home. This event was
an important one in the prosecution of the whale fishery. Larger ves-
sels were built and deep sea whaling was commenced. Voyages were
made of from four to six weeks, and after filling a few hogsheads with
blubber, the product of one whale, perhaps, the vessels returned home.

* Richard L. Pease, of Edgartown.

n}> oc-o^ti^/Clp^ ^jV^c,

WHALING AT DARTMOUTH. 405

The owners would take charge of the cargo, and at once send out the
vessel on another voyage. In 1 730 Nantucket had about twenty- five
vessels of from thirty- eight to fifty tons burden, engaged in the fishery.
At this period whaling was prosecuted, with varying success, at Province-
town, Sandwich, Eastman, and other towns on Cape Cod. The sea-
sons from 1737 to 1740 were unfortunate ones, but few wliales being
captured, and the people were, in consequence, placed in straitened
circumstances, many of them being without mone}' or provisions. In
1 741 the Provincetown fishermen were encouraged by the appearance
of large numbers of blackfish and porpoises in the bay. They killed
150 porpoises and over 1,000 blackfish, yielding about 1,500 barrels of
oil, which found a ready sale. At this time the French and Spanish
privateers began depredations on English commerce. This checked the
operations of whaling vessels, and many of them were captured.

Deep sea whaling at Martha's Vineyard commenced about 1738,
continued for a few years without success, and was for a while aban-
doned. In 1748 the English parliament encouraged the American
whale fishery by the passage 'jf an act remitting duties on many articles
necessary for its prosecution, and granting bounties. The enterprise,
however, was pursued under great difficulties and dangers, for the pri-
vateers made sad havoc with the fleet. Their operations extended even
into Long Island Sound, and several Nantucket whalers were captured.
The continuation of foreign wars occasioned much distress among the
people of New England, for the demands of England upon her colonies
were many and hard to fulfill. It was the intolerant measures enforced
at this period that gave birth to the spirit of resistance which culmi-
nated in the American Revolution.

Joseph Russell was the founder of the whaling industry in Dart-
mouth. From authentic sources it has been well established that as
early as 1750 shore whaling was carried on here. It is evident that the
modes used were like those in vogue on Cape Cod and Nantucket.
Vessels were fitted out for voyages of a few weeks and returned with
the blubber, which was tried out on the shore. If the reader will refer
to the map, page 58, made by Rev. Ezra Stiles in 1762, he will notice
that on the western shore of the Acushnet but one building is marked
on the entire river front. Unquestionably this was the location of the

4o6 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

try- house of the Russells. It is certain that at this period several ves-
sels were fitted from the harbors of Dartmouth. Ricketson's liistory of
New Bedford contains an interesting account of a voyage of ihe sloop
Betsey, of Dartmouth, in 1761. These extracts from the log book re-
veal much that is valuable relating to the early methods used.

" Aug. 2d, 1761. Lat. 45° 54', Ion. 53° 57', saw two sperm whales ;
killed one. Aug. 4th, lat. 44" 27', ion. 51° 36', sounded on the Grand
Bank in 45 fathoms. Saw humpbacks. Aug. 6th, spoke with John
Clasbury. He had got 105 bbls. Spoke with two Nantucket men.
They had got one whale between them ; they told us that Jenkins and
Dunham had got four whales between them, and Allen and Pease had
got two whales between them. Lat. 42° 57'. Sunday, Aug. 9th. Saw
sperm whales. Struck two and killed them between us (naming their
consort). August lOth. Cut up blubber into casks, filled 35 hhds. ;
our partner filled 33 hhds. Judged ourselves to be not far from the
Banks. Finished stowing the hold. August 14th. Sounded. Got 45
fathoms Tried for codfish, but got none. August 20th, lat. 42° 2'.
This morning spoke with Thomas Gibbs. Had got 1 10 bbls. Told us
he had spoke with John Aiken and Ephraim Delano and Thomas Nye.
They had got no oil at all. Sounded. Got no bottom. Thomas
Gibbs told us we were but two leagues off the Bank. August 22. This
morning saw a spermaceti and killed her. Saw a whale to leeward
standing westward. August 23. Went to work on the head. Filled
six hhds. Went on board Capt. Shearman and rafted blubber. Aug-
ust 28th. This morning saw a sloop. Spoke with her. It was Wil-
mot West. Had got 65 bbls. Saw a spermaceti. It set in foggy.
Lost sight of him. Lat. 43° 22'. August 30. Saw a spermaceti, but
could not strike her. Lat. 43° 14'. Aug. 31. Squally. Thunder and
licihtning. Saw spermaceti, plenty. Sept. 2. Saw a spermaceti spout.
It set in thick and foggy. Sept. 3. This morning at 8 saw a sperma-
ceti Got into her two short warps and the tow iron. She drawed the
short waips and the tow iron and ran away. In the afternoon came
across her. Got another iron in, but she went away. Judged ourst<ives
to be nigh the Banks. Sept. 5th, saw spermaceties ; chased, but could
not strike. Sept. 6th. Yesterday afternoon saw whales ; struck one,
but never saw her again. Sept. 7th, saw a school of spermaceties.

EXPENSE OF FITTING OUT.

407

Capt. Shearman struck one out of the vessel and killed her. Brought
her alongside of our vessel. Cut in her body. Lat. 43°."

September 17, they made the land and are supposed to have ended
the voyage. The rest of the log is missing. The captain's name of the
sloop Betsey does not appear, and no estimate is given of the oil taken.

This journal shows that sperm whales were taken near the Newfound-
land Banks, and that several vessels cruised about that ground as earlj'
as 1761. The following extracts are from the journal ofa whaling voy-
age dated 1762, in the same handwriting as that of the preceding jour-
nal. The journal of the commencement of the voyage, and while they
were on the cruising grounds for whales, is missing. The first date of
the journal is September 2, 1762. At this date it appears they had
sailed for home. The amount of oil obtained is not stated.

"Sept. 2, 1762. This day judged ourselves to be abreast of Cape
Race. Spoke with Shubel Bunker and Benjamin Paddock. They told
us that we were 1 5 leagues to the westward of the Bank. Sept. 3.
Kept her W. by N. yi N. Wind east; moderate, but a bad sea.
Knocked down try works. Sept. 15. Spoke Henry Folger and Nathan
Cofifin ; they judge they came off of Brown's Bank yesterday, and off
George's this morning. Sept. 17. Alade land, the highlands of Cape
Cod." Here the journal ends.

The following is illustrative of what would be called a poor voyage
in these days :

Settlement of Sloop Betsey's whale voyage, 1767.

Tuns. Bhls. Gal. £ s. p.

8 6 2i Body oil at £150 per tun 1,313 17 G

1 7 Head matter at £200 per tun, 375

1,688 17 6
Sundry charges for settling the voyage 50 19 ft

1,631 17 10
Men's shares, 709 19

921 IS 10

Sundry bills against the ship for outfits 1.140 12 1

Leaving a loss to the owners of 218 13 3

4o8 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Upon the back of the log we find some figures headed " What we owe
Joseph Rotch & Sons for sloop Betsey" which throw some hght upon
the cost of fitting a whaler at that time :

£ J. /.

Before we began to fit for whaling, 45 00

4 bbls. pork, 103 10

60 lbs. tallow, 15 00

60 lbs. butter, 20 10

1 towline, 53 00

45 bushels of corn, 50 12 6

3 cwt. of bread, 14 00

66 qr. of flour, 17 10

Leather and sundries, 15 00

CofiFee, 1 cheese, 18 00

2 bushels of beans, 4 00

1 cwt. of cordage, 34 00

2 lbs. of twine and breeks, 11 18

402 00 6
We then have the following additional memoranda of expenses :

£.. s. d.

Tallman & Russell to 5 lbs. tea 10 12 6

Two pails, and 1 shovel and boards 9 10

Tabour, for mending boats 12 00

Richard Dilno and Abisha Dilno 22 10

Jonathan Smith and Sampson, blacksmith 35 00

Louden & Hudson 10 00

William Claghorn, sundries 134 00

David Shepherd, new cask 150 00

Sundries put in 40 00

John Slocum, sundries 238 00

Cheese 23 00

Jethro Hathaway, beef 166 lbs 14 00

£1,100 13
In 1 759 the sloop Industry, Isaiah Eldredge, master, probably of
Dartmouth, was captured by a French privateer.

It is evident that the whaling industry was prosecuted from Fairha-
ven prior to 1760, for it is recorded that in that year William Wood
sold to Elnathan Eldredge, of the same town, a certain tract of land
located within the present town of Fairhaven,' and within three-quarters

■ Starbuck's History o£ Whale Fishery.

GROWTH OF WHALING.

409

of a mile of the center of the town, on the banks of the Acushnet
River, " always excepting and reserving . . . that part of the
same where the Try house and oyl shed now stands."

In 1765 four sloops, the Nancy, Polly, Greyhound and Hannah,
owned by Joseph Russell and William Tallman, were engaged in whale
fishing. During this year a new whaling sloop from Dartmouth was
run down and sunk by another whaleman from the same port. At this
period most of the vessels fished in the Gulf of St Lawrence and Straits
of Belle Isle.

In spite of the depredations of the French and Spanish privateers, the
heavy claims made by the English government, and the disasters of the
ocean, the whaling industry in Bedford increased. Whaling vessels be-
longing in Dartmouth in 1768 were commanded by Joseph Tripp,
Benjamin Jenney, Salathiel Eldredge, Isaiah Eldredge and Fortunatus

Sherman ; in 1769, by Isaiah Eldredge, Delano, Joseph Tripp,

James Coffin, Melatiah Pease, Lemuel Jenkins, Benjamin Dillingham,
Fortunatus Sherman and Thomas Marshall ; in 1770, by Isaiah El-
dredge (in sloop Tryall), Delano, Seth Hamblin, Lazarus Spooner,

Fortunatus Slierman, Dillingham and Joseph Tripp.

It is recorded that in 1770 the sloop Deliverance, Marchant, of Dart-
mouth, in two voyages this year took 360 barrels. John Claghorn,
mate of a Dartmouth brig, was taken out of his boat by a foul line and
drowned, the fourth brother in a family of si.x to lose his life in this
way. The importance of the whale fishery during the years prior to
the American Revolution is forcibly indicated in the statistics given —
that there were annually fitted during the years 1770 to 1775 for the
northern fishery about 200 vessels of 16, I20 tonnage; for the southern
fishery, about 146 vessels of 16,320 tonnage, employing 4,500 men ;
45,890 barrels of sperm oil and 8,850 barrels of whale oil taken annu-
ally. This fleet was composed of whaling vessels that sailed from
Nantucket, Wellfleet, Dartmouth, Lynn, Martha's Vineyard, Barnstable,
Boston, Falmouth, Cape Cod, Swansea, Providence, Newport, Warren,
Sag Harbor, New London and New York. From Dartmouth there
were annually fitted, 1770-1775, eighty vessels of 6,500 tonnage ; total
number of seamen employed, 1,040; 7,200 barrels of sperm oil and
1,400 barrels of whale oil taken annually.

410 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

From these statistics it is plainly indicated that the whale fishery at
Dartmouth was in a most flourishing condition. Such a thriving and
growing business carried with it prosperity to the inhabitants. Every
branch of mechanical art connected with the fitting of ships was in full
operation. Vessels were built on the Acushnet and Apponegansett
Rivers, and sail lofts, ropewalks, cooper-shops and wharves came into
existence Houses were erected to accommodate the scores of work-
men employed. Streets were opened on which to locate these homes,
and on the western slope of the Acushnet River, that had been com-
paratively an unbroken forest, arose the prosperous village of Bedford.

Mr. Ricketson says that " previous to the Revolutionary War a can-
dle-house, the first in the place, was built by Joseph Russell ; and Cap-
tain Chaffee, who had been engaged in manufacturing spermaceti in
Lisbon, was employed by Mr. Russell at the then large salary of $500
per year This building stood near the corner of Centre and Front
streets, and was burnt by the British during the general conflagration
of the place."

In 1775 there were forty or fifty vessels employed in the whale fish-
ery that belonged to Dartmouth. They were about forty tons burden,
and made two or more voyages in a year.

But this tide of prosperity was of short duration, and the fleet of
whaling vessels was eventually destroyed or driven from the sea. In a
former chapter I have spoken of the events of local interest that clus-
ter about the battles of Lexington and Bunker Hill. Some of the deeds
performed by Dartmouth, even before these notable events took place,
have been recorded. With the advent of the American Revolution
came the death of the whaling industry, not only in Dartmouth, but in
all the New England towns that had been engaged in it. One of the
main causes that led to the conflict with the mother country was the
heartless cruelties inflicted upon those engaged in the whale fisheries of
New England. The Boston port bill, the stamp act, tea tax and the
other tyrannical measures, severe and outrageous as they were, were not
more so than those imposed on the fishermen of the Atlantic coast. It
is proper at this point to briefly notice a few of these.

The difficulties commenced as early as 1765, when a large portion of
the whaling fleet operated in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Straits

■en^-^tyAH^BUCi^

^^^^J^^^ ^. ^V^W^

UNJUST EES TRICTIONS. 4 1 1

of Belle Isle. The News Letter, a paper printed in Boston, of date
August 8, 1765, says that " the vessels employed in the Whale Fishery
from this and the neighboring maritime Towns, aniQunting to near 100
sail, have been very successful this season in the Gulf of St. Lawrence
and Straits of Belle Isle, having 'tis said, already made upwards of
9,000 barrels of Oil." This encouraging report was followed in the
issue of the Nezvs Letter of August 22, by one that contained the orders
of the governor of Labrador that placed restrictions upon the fishery.
He ordered that useless parts of the whales captured be carried away
three leagues from the shore, forbade the carrying of passengers from
Newfoundland or the Labrador coast to any part of the Plantations, or-
dered the whaling vessels to leave the coast by November 1st and not
to fish in any of the ports or coasts of Newfoundlannd between Point
Rechi and Cape Bonavista. The order forbade any trade or intercourse
with the French, and also prohibited all fishing on the coast except for
whales. The latter order was a severe one, for it had been the custom
of the whalemen to fish for cod when the caich of whales proved a fail-
ure. The result of these measures was that several vessels returned not
only with no success, but reported that they had been ill-treated by
some of the cruisers on the Labrador coast. An additional decree was
issued in 1766 that vessels from the Plantations found to have any fish
but the whale on board, would be seized and confiscated. This action
drove the fleet from these seas, and they pursued their calling along the
edge of the Gulf Stream, Western Islands, Cape de Verds and Brazil
Banks. From time to time the new decrees were issued that hindered
the whalemen in the prosecution of the fishing on the North American
coast. In February, 1775, Parliament passed a bill restricting the trade
and commerce of Massachusetts Bay, Connecticut, New Hampshire and
Rhode Island to England, Ireland and British West Indies, and pro-
hibiting the colonies from carrying on any fishing on the bank? of
Newfoundland, or on any other part of the North American coast. The
bill was resisted by a minority of the House of Lords and Commons.
It was during this debate that Burke made his eloquent defense of the
colonies — an address worthy to be enshrined in the memory of every
New Englander. Such praise from our ancestors is indeed a noble in-
heritance. " For some time past, Mr. Speaker," said Burke, " has the

412 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Old World been fed from the New. The scarcity you have felt would
have been a desolating famine if this child of your old age — if America
— with a true filial piety, with a Roman charity had not put the full
breast of its youthful exuberance to the mouth of its exhausted parent.
Turning from the agricultural resources of the colonies, consider the
wealth which they have drawn from the sea by their fisheries. The
spirit in which that enterprising spirit has been exercised ought to cause
"your esteem and admiration. Pray, sir, what in the world is equal to
it ? Pass by the other parts and look at the manner in which the
people of New England have of late carried on the whale fishing.
Whilst we follow them among the tumbling mountains of ice and be-
hold them penetrating into the deepest frozen resources of Hudson's
Bay and Davis Straits ; whilst we are looking for them beneath the
arctic circle we hear that they have pierced into the opposite regions
of polar cold ; that they are at the Antipodes, and engaged under the
frozen serpent of the South Falkland Island, which seems too remote and
romantic an object for the grasp of national ambition. Nor is the equi-
noctial heat more discouraging to them than the accumulated winter of
both the Poles. We know that whilst some of them draw the line and
strike the harpoon on the coast of Africa, others run the longitude and
pursue the gigantic game along the coast of Brazil. No sea but what
is vexed by their fisheries. No climate that is not a witness to their
toils. Neither the perseverance of Holland, nor the activity of France,
nor the dexterous and firm sagacity of English enterprise ever carried
this most perilous mode of hardy industry to the extent to which it has
been pursued by this People, a People who are still, as it were, in the
gristle and not yet hardened into the bone of manhood. When I con-
template these things, which I know that the colonies in general owe
little or nothing to any care of theirs, and they are not squeezed into
this happy form by a watchful and suspicious Government, but that,
through a wise and salutary neglect of generous nature, has been suf-
fered to take her own way to perfection — when I reflect upon these
effects, when I see how profitable they have been to us, I ft-el all the
pride of power sink and all presumption in the wisdom of human con-
trivances melt and die away within me. My rigor relents. I pardon
something to the spirit of liberty."

WHALING DURING THE REVOLUTION. 413

In spite of the vigorous protests against this unjust bill it became a
law. Not satisfied with this iniquitous action Parliament passed another
measure none the less barbarous and inhuman. It enacted that all per-
sons taken from American vessels should serve as common sailors on
British ships of war. This was denounced by the opponents of the bill
as " the refinement of tyranny, which, in a sentence worse than death,
obliges the unhappy men who shall be made captives in this predatory
war, to bear arms against families, kindred, and friends, and country,
and after being plundered themselves, to become accomplices in plun-
dering their brethren."

In 1799, when John Adams resided in Paris, he discovered that
when an English man of-war had taken an American vessel, the
whalemen among the crew had been given, by order of the government,
their choice either to go on board of a man- of war and fight for their
country, or to go into the whale fishery. By this means, many crews
of English whalers were composed of American whalemen. Adams
urged the Continental Congress to send an armed vessel and relieve
these captive seamen, but nothing was done. Many of them remained
in the English service, and served to strengthen the attempt to wrest
the fisheries from the Americans. From this train of events the reader
will see the causes that led to the destruction of the whaling industry,
not only of Dartmouth, but of that of the entire New England coast.
Joseph Rotch abandoned the enterprise he had begun at Bedford vil-
lage and returned to Nantucket.

In former pages have been recited the events that took place in
Dartmouth during the dark days of the Revolution. From August,
1775, to January, 1776, bonds were filed with the State treasurer by
Francis Rotch and Leonard Jarvis of Dartmouth for brigantines Falk-
land, William Covell, master; Fox, Silas Butler, master; George, Thomas
Banning, master; Enterprise, James Whippey, master; Ami, Simeon
Coffin, master; and brig Royal Charlotte, William Roberts, master.
By Aaron Lopez, of Newport, and Leonard Jarvis, of Dartmouth, ship
Africa, Joseph Ripley, master; and brig Minerva, John Locke, master.
By Joseph Russell, Isaac Hovvland, Barnabas Russell, and Caleb Greene,
of Dartmouth, schooner Jnuo, George Shockley, master. By David
Sheppard, Seth Russell, David Sowle, and Abraham Smith, brigantine

414 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Kesia, David Sowle, master. By John Alden and Walter Spooner, of
Dartmouth, schooner Grampus, Job Springer, master. By Lemuel
Williams and William Tallman, of Dartmouth, sloop Neptune, Luther
Burgess, master. No other vessels appear to be recorded during the
Revolutionary war. It is a fair supposition that these vessels were the
last in the Dartmouth fleet that made whaling voyages.

The chapter on the British invasion tells the story of the destruc-
tion of seventy vessels in the harbor, September 5, 1778. This blow
to the maritime affairs completely annihilated the hopes of Dartmouth,
and for several years nothing was done toward the restoration of the
whale fishery. In 1785 the sloop Hero, Capt. Joshua Delano, made
a whaling voyage. This is the first indication of a renewal of the
whale fishing in Dartmouth. Again, in 1787 Captain Delano made a
voyage in the sloop Rainbotv. It is quite likely that other Dartmouth
vessels were engaged, but these two voyages are the only ones recorded.

It is evident that after the return of the Rotch family to Nantucket
they attempted to establish the whale fishery at Edgartown. The basis
of this supposition is that there is a deed on record in that town, dated
August 8, 1777, from Thomas Arey to William Rotch, of Sherburn,
county of Nantucket, of about six acres of land bounded easterly by
the harbor of Edgartown, and otherwise by the cartway leading to
Starbuck's Neck, and otherwise bounded so as to be easily identified.
The consideration named is ^180, lawful money.

January 3, 1796, James Tupper and Deborah, his wife, deeded to
William Rotch, of New Bedford, merchant, for ^600, about three acres
of land adjoining the above described premises. This tract also was on
the shore, and there was a dwelling-house standing on this lot, which
doubtless accounts in part for the amount of the consideration. May
21, 1829, William Rotch, jr., merchant of New Bedford, Lydia Scot
Rotch, Mary Rotch, single woman, Samuel Rodman, and Elizabeth
his wife, and Benjamin Rotch, of Harrow in the Kingdom of Great
Baitain, by their attorney, Francis Rotch, sold both of the above de-
scended tracts to John O. Morse, of Edgartown for ;,{;i,200. There is a
tradition among the people of Edgartown that William Rotch desired
to leave Nantucket and locate at Edgartown, but not being able to ob-
tain sufficient land except at extravagant prices, was virtually driven

FROM THE REVOLUTIOM- TO i?,ii. 415

from Edgartown. It would seem as tliough he never abandoned the
idea until after the second purchase in 1796. At any rate the old peo-
ple of Edgartown for many years have looked back upon this refusal of
theirs as a neglected opportunity.

The ship Rebecca made, it is claimed, the first whaling voyage on the
Pacific Ocean. She sailed from Dartmouth September 21, 1793, return-
ing with a cargo of 750 bbls. sperm oil, and 180 bbls. whale oil. This
ship was built by George Claghorn, the famous builder of the U. S.
frigate Constitution. The Rebecca was launched from the shore near
the foot of North Street. Mr. Ricketson, in his history of New Bed-
ford, says: "A handsome figurehead had been made in Philadelphia
for the Rebecca and was placed upon her previous to launching, but
there being considerable objection made to it, on the part of members
of the Society of Friends, of which the owners were members, it was
removed. A mock funeral was held over it by a few ga)' young men,
one or more of them sons of Joseph Russell, when it was buried in the
sand, upon the shore. Although the Rebecca was only 175 tons, she
was considered a very large vessel, and was visited as an object of
wonder. It was no small matter to obtain a captain sufficiently expe-
rienced to take charge. At length Captain Hayden, who had made
several foreign voyages, was engaged, and Capt. Cornelius Grinnell was
her first mate. The ship proceeded to Philadelphia, and thence took a
cargo to Liverpool. The captain on her return passage was taken ill
and rendered incapable of continuing the command, which devolved
upon the first mate, who conducted the voyage so much to the satisfac-
tion of the owners that the command was given to him on the next
voyage. Captain Grinnell was one of our most successful shipmasters,
a .gentleman of the old school, and one of that class of worthies with
which the rise and progress of New Bedford is, inseparably connected.
The Rebecca was finally lost on her homeward passage from Liverpool,
in the winter of 1 803-4. The Rebecca was so named from the eldest
daughter of Joseph Russell, wife of Daniel Ricketson."

In 1792 the following vessels returned to Dartmouth from voyages:
The ships Columbia, and Eliza ; schooners Lively, Polly and Betsey ;
^oo'^i, Betsey, Tryall, and the brigs Polly Sind Union. 1793, ship i?f/;^c-
ca, brigs Atlantic, Beaver, Keziah, Mary, Nancy, Russell, and schooners

4i6 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Swan, and Friendship. 1794, the sloops Hero and Industry, and
schooner Sally. 1795, ships Ann, Berkeley, Commerce, Delaware, James,
Lydia, Suzy, Union. 1797, ships Barclay, Bedford, Juno, Warren,
Wareham, Maria, Nancy, President, and Fox. 1799, ships Edward,
Franklin. 1 800, ship Dolphin. 1 80 1 , ships Diana, Exchange, Herald,
Hunter, Hannah, and Eliza ; schooner Eliza, and sloop Oxford.
1802, sloop Susan ; ships Winslow and Merchant.

This list indicates that the whaling and merchant fleet numbered
about fifty vessels at the beginning of the century. The whaling in-
dustry had been conducted during these years under circumstances that
were discouraging. The depredations on the whaling fleet by the
French and Spanish cruisers have been alluded to in a former chapter.
They were of a most serious character, many vessels being captured or
destroyed. These cases gave rise to the French spoliation claims. In
spite of these difficulties, the whaling business prospered, and every
year witnessed additions to the fleet. In 1805 there were belonging to
this port seventy- three ships and thirty- nine brigs.^

Such was the prosperous condition of the whaling business at the
period when the difficulties with England began that resulted in the War
of 1 8 12. The embargo act of 1807 materially diminished the already
demoralized commerce, and but one vessel arrived at this port from a
whaling voyage. The business improved somewhat during the few
years until the advent of the war, when it received crushing blows that
practically closed operations till peace was declared in 18 15. In 18 16
seven vessels arrived from voyages, with cargoes of 1,350 bbls. sperm
oil, market price $1.12^, and 1,500 bbls. whale oil, market value sixty-
five cents. Total valuation, $458,700. In 18 17 thirteen vessels ar-
rived, with 7,499 bbls. sperm oil, market price seventy-two cents, and
7,800 bbls. whale oil, market price sixty cents. Total valuation $1,
091.576.

The steady and somewhat remarkable development of the whale fish-
ery may be seen in the tables given at the close of this chapter. It will
be interesting to note the ever- changing values of the product and the

1 " 1807, in New Bedford, there were seven wharves, between ninety and a hundred ships and
brigs, and betA'een twenty and thirty smaller vessels."— /oc/ Note Mass. Hist. CM. Abraham Shear-

AFTER THE WAR OF 1&12. 417

increase of total valuations, till the highest point was reached iu 1857,
$10,802,594.

From the close of the war of 1 812 the whale fishery increased in
extent, and the industry was carried on in the North and South Atlan-
tic, the Indian, and Pacific Oceans. New Bedford shared in the gen-
eral prosperity, and its energetic citizens reaped fortunes from its pros-
ecution. So rapid was its increase that it soon outstripped Nantucket
in number of vessels and in capital employed. In 1820 many of the
ships found good whaling ground on the " off-shore grounds," where
whales were found in almost countless numbers. Other fields were dis-
covered as the years passed by, and whales where discovered in the
Japan Sea, off the Sandwich Islands, and the coast of Zanzibar. In
1835 the industry was in full tide of success and for several years con-
tinued to grow and increase. In 1843 the first bowhead whales taken
in the Northern Pacific were captured on the coast of Kamschatka, by
New Bedford ships, the Hcraiks, Captain Ricketscn, and the James,
Captain Turner. It is recorded that the value of the bow head whale
was discovered by Capt. George A. Covell, of New Bedford, while fish-
ing for sperm whales in the Ochotsk Sea. He struck one of this species
and killed him with but little difficulty. "Before cutting him in they
judged he would make seventy bbls., but to their surprise he turned
out 150, with bone in proportion." ^

This discovery was an important one, and the pursuit of ihe bowhead
whale became an important factor in tlie whale industrj-. In 1848 the
first whale ship, the Superior, of Sag Haibor, passed throu<.;h Bthring's
Straits and obtained a good catch. This was the beginning of arctic
whaling, and soon scores of vessels from New Bedfoid found their way
thitlier, returning with full cargoes. For forty years whaling has been
continued in the arctic with varying success. In later pages it will be
seen how important the product of whalebone is to even the limited
prosecution of the fishery at the present time.

Among local matters of interest at this period relating to the whale
fishery, that have been gleaned from many sources, are the following :
The names of the pilots who resided in New Bedford in 1844 were Z.
Allen, Benjamin Aiken, Peleg Crowell, Caleb Church, John Aiken, D.

4i8 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Deinoranville. May 31, Captain Hiller, of Fairhaven, was lost from
ship Sarah Frances, a whale upsetting the boats. In 18/I3 fifty-six
ships arrived. September 21, brig Two Sisters, Captain Maxfield, was
lost, crew saved.

Among the business houses in New Bedford at this time, whose ad-
vertisements appear in the Shipping List, are William C. Taber, 40
Union street, instruments, charts, books, etc.; N. B. Cordage Co.,
K. S. & W. J. Rotcli and Jacob Ricketson ; Jacob Parker, cables, an-
chors, etc , 15 Centre street; Bedford Commercial Insurance Co., James
Howland 2d, secretary; Whaling Insurance Co., George Howland, jr.,
president ; J. Dunbar & Co., dealers in duck ; John Kehew, instrument
maker, 69 North Water street ; Swift & Allen, Middle street ; Bedford
Mutual Marine Insurance Co., James Howland 2d, president ; Mutual
Marine Insurance Co, S. Merrihew, president; William P. Grinnell,
duck, copper and cordage ; Ebenezer Rider, spars, masts, etc., Leon-
ard's wharf; Thomas H. Howland, oil and bone broker; Pope & Mor-
gan, oil, Rotch's wharf.

The whaling industry in New Bedford in 1847 "'^^ in a most flour-
ishing condition, and the editor of the Shipping List asks the people
who are accustomed to sneer at New Bedford and Nantucket and the
whaling business, to look at the list of whalers belonging to New Bed-
ford. He says they number 254, worth $6,350,600. The crews aver-
age twenty-five men, and the fleet employs 6,350 seamen. He speaks
in high terms of the character of the captains and challenges the world
to produce an equal number of ships of better quality or in better con-
dition.

March 22, 1848, bark Pacific 2d, Captain Little, was wrecked on a
reef at Pernambuco. April 30, ship Hope, Captain Tucker, was wrecked
near Cape Brett. She was owned by George Howland. January 28,
1849, bark London Packet, Captain Howland, was lost at Cape de Verd
Islands, and five or six of the crew were drowned. In March, 1649,
bark Emigrant, Capt. Bartholomew West, was lost, and the crew of
nineteen seamen was never heard from.

The discovery of the gold mines in California at this period was pro-
ductive of serious results to the whale fishery in the North Pacific

EFFECTS OF THE CALIFORNIA GOLD FEVER. 4.9

and Arctic Oceans. Starbuck says : " Immediately after the discovery
of the gold mines of California, desertions from tlie ships were numer-
ous and often causeless, generally in such number as to seriousl)' crip-
ple the efficiency of the ship. In this way large numbers of voyages
were broken up and thousands of dollars were sunk by the owners.
During a portion of the time many ships were fired b)- their refractory
and mutinous crews, some of them completely destroyed, others dam-
aged in amounts varying from a few hundred to several thousand dd-
lars. Crews would apparently ship simply as a cheap manner of
reaching the gold mines, and a ship's company often embraced among
its number desperadoes from various nations, fit for any rascality which
might best serve them to attain their end. They took no interest in the
voyage, nor cared aught for the profit or loss that might accrue to the
owners. In order to recruit, it became necessary, particularly during the
next ten years succeeding the opening of the gold mines, to offer hea\y
advance wages, and too often these were paid to bounty jumpers, who
only waited the time when the ship made another port, to clandestinely
dissolve connection with her and hold themselve= in readiness for the
next ship. There were times, when the California fever was at its high-
est, that the desertions did not stop with the men, but officers and even
captains seemed to vie with the crew in defrauding the men from
whose hands they had received the property to hold in charge and in-
crease in value."

About 1S59 the v\'haling gun was invented and introduced into the
market. An advertisement appears in the Shipping List for that year
in which this new instrument was recommended for its superior power
in killing whales.

One of the legitimate results of the success of whaling at this time
was the increased activity in every branch of mechanical industry.
Especially was this true of ship-building in 1850. In 1851 forty eight
ships were added to the New Bedford fleet, and nearly one-half of the
entire oil importation of the country came to this port. The ship yards
on both sides of the Acushnet River, those at Mattapoisett, Dartmouth,
and Westport, were centers of activity, and from the shores of these
places were launched many vessels that were added to the fleet. In
December, 1852, there were six new ships being built or contracted for

420 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

in New Bedford. Many of these vessels were splendid specimens of the
naval architecture of the period. The fame of these ships still remains
in the community, and those that still exist are pleasant reminders of
the golden age of the whale fishery.

In 1851 the first experiments in killing whales by electricity were
made. Camphene, for lighting purposes, came into use at this time, and
was naturally condemned in this community.

March 22, 1852, Lawrence Grinnell made a contract to supply the
United States Government with 75,000 gallons of sperm oil at $i.l8|
per gallon. This item is a significant one, as it shows what quantities
of this product were used in the lighthouses on the coast. For many
years the oil was carried to the different stations by Capt. Joseph How-
land, in the schooner Gazelle, and by Capt. Jonathan Howland, in the
schooner Eliza. They were succeeded by Capt. Cornelius Springer, in
the schooner Pharos, and by Capt. A. S. Hussey and Capt. J. Wash-
ington Perry in the schooner Guthrie. The schooner Pharos was sub-
sequently commanded by Capts. Jonathan Howland, jr., Jonathan A.
Fuller, and John G. Ellis.

In 1852 there were 311 vessels of all kinds employed in the whale
fishery from New Bedford, tonnage 104,005. In 1853, 318 vessels, with
107,512 tonnage. The business for the year 1854 was considered as pros-
perous as that of 185 i, which was greater than that of any year since 1847.
At this time the merchant service was an important factor, there being in
1854, twenty- seven merchant vessels owned in New Bedford, and two
in Fairhaven. In 1855 there were 319 ves.sels in the New Bedford fleet
of whalers, tonnage 107.702. The prosecution of the whaling industry
in New Bedford reached its highest point at this period, and the years
1856-58 witnessed the most flourishing events that characterized its
history. The accession of new ships to the fleet, the increased expense
of fitting them for sea, and the high premiums paid to officers dis-
tinguished as successful whalemen seemed to be warranted by the steady
demand for the product. The wharves on both sides of the Acushnet
were teeming with life, and mechanics of every kind of industrial art
that had any relation to the fitting of ships found ample employment at
good wages. The returning ships, laden with full cargoes, kept them
busy in refitting for new voyages. The streets were alive with sailors,

^K^.^^^.

BEGINNING OF THE DECLINE. 421

their purses filled with ready money that was soon expended. Officers
of ships, who had husbanded their hard-earned gains, bought or built
homes, in which to enjoy their rest after long service on the seas. Pros-
perity reigned triumphant for a time, the rich agents and owners grew
more wealthy, and even those in humble station shared in the general
good fortune. The high prices of oil were maintained, and it seemed
as if there could be no limit to the onward progress of the whaling
business.

But the enormous quantities of oil and whalebone that were landed
on the wharves by the returning ships soon overstocked the market;
prices fell, voyages that had formerly yielded great profits were settled
at a loss, disaster came to many firms, and the condition of prosperity
was changed to one of serious anxiety. Of sixty-eight whalers that
arrived at New Bedford and Fairhaven in 1858, forty-four made losing
voyages. The average price of sperm oil in 1855 was $1.77-1^-; in
1858, it was $1.21 ; whale oil in 1855 was 79^^ cents; in 1858, 54
cents. It is a singular fact that whalebone in 1855 "'^s quoted at 45^
cents, and in 1858 at 96^ cents, a rise of more than 100 per cent. It
was a gleam of light from out of the darkness of the time. It would
seem as though it pointed with no uncertain significance to the fact that
this product of the whale fishery was to assume greater importance in
the market. Who could have predicted that whalebone would be the
chief article sought from the fisheries, and that it would be quoted in
1891 at $6.50 a pound? The reader may judge of the great business
incident to the whaling industry at this period, by the following list of
articles used in fitting out the sixty-five whale ships that sailed from
New Bedford in 1858, the gross value of which was $1,950,000; 13,-
650 barrels of flour, 260 of meal, 10,400 of beef, 7,150 of pork, 19,500
bushels of salt, 97,500 gallons of molasses, 39,000 pounds of rice,
1,300 bushels of beans, 39,000 pounds of dried apples, 78,000 pounds of
sugar, 78,000 pounds of butter, 19,500 pounds of cheese, 16,300 pounds
of ham, 32,500 pounds of codfish, 18,000 pounds of coffee, 14,300 pounds
of tea, 13,300 pounds of raisins, 1,950 bushels of corn, 2,600 bushels of
potatoes, 1,300 bushels of onions, 400 barrels of vinegar, 2,000 pounds
of sperm candles, 32,500 barrels of fresh water, 1,200 cords of wood, 260
cords of pine, 1,000,000 staves, 260,000 feet heading, 1,000 tons of iron

42 2 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

hoops, 33,000 pounds iron rivets, 520,000 pounds sheatliing copper and
yellow metal, 15,000 pounds of sheathing nails, 52,000 pounds of cop-
pering nails, 400 barrels of tar, 759,000 pounds of cordage, 450 whale
boats, 32,500 boat boards, 65,000 feet pine boards, 36,000 feet oars,
8,500 iron poles, 22,500 pounds flags, 23,000 bricks, 200 casks of lime,
205,000 yards of canvas, 13,000 pounds of cotton twine, 234,000 yards
assorted cotton cloth, 130,000 pounds of tobacco, 39,000 pounds white
lead, 5,200 gallons linseed oil, 400 gallons turpentine, 13,000 pounds
paints, 2,600 gallons of new rum, I ,ooo gallons of other liquors, 120
casks of powder, besides clothing, etc. The advance wages alone
amounted to $130,000.

The causes are manifold that led to the decline of the whale fishery.
While the whale fishery furnished the lighting power for the world, it
seemed as if whale oil were the only thing that would answer this pur-
pose. But the high prices of this oil forced the introduction of substi-
tutes, and the first was lard oil. While this did nof fully take the place,
it became a serious factor in the market. But the discovery of the oil
wells of Pennsylvania was the important blow to the whale fishery , and
though its introduction was resisted and impeded, the improved product
was soon freed from its dangerous character, and petroleum came to
stay. Not a long time elapsed before factories for the refining of crude
petroleum were established in this city, the home of the whale fishery.

Kerosene was first distilled in New Bedford in 1858. Abraham H.
Rowland, William C. Taber, Joseph C. Delano, John Hicks, William
Penn Howland, Henry T. Wood, and Weston Howland erected a factory
at the foot of South street. They commenced operations with a cargo
of bog- head coal from Scotland. The oil was distilled from retorts, and
a successful business was at once established. The petroleum fields of
Pennsylvania were discovered in 1859, and the refining of this product
engaged the attention of Weston Howland, who, after repeated ex-
periments, discovered a process by which burning oil was successfully
distilled and refined. August i, i860, Mr. Howland purchased Fish
Island, erected a factory thereon, equipped it with stills and machinery,
and placed on the market the first refined burning oil distilled from the
products of the oil fields of Pennsylvania. The works were destroyed
by an explosion in 1 861, in which disaster two of the employees lost

EFFECTS OF THE CIVIL WAR. 423

their lives. The factory was immediately rebuilt, and a profitable busi-
ness was continued for several years.

Cotton-seed oil also came into the market as a strong rival of whale
oil, and is extensively used even at the present time.

Other causes were operating to reduce and weaken the enterprise
that, from the beginning of its history, had been the chief source of the
prosperity of New Bedford.

The War of the Rebellion, like all other wars in the country's his-
tory, was felt at once by the whale fishery. No commercial interest of
the North, perhaps, was in a more unfortunate condition at the time
when Sumter was fired upon. The financial distress that had fallen
upon the business in 1857 was still having its demoralizing effect, and
the merchants were bravely struggling with the adverse condition of
affairs. The large fleet of whalers was scattered over the Atlantic and
Pacific Oceans, and they proved easy victims to the rebel privateers,
which soon began their depredations on the maritime commerce of the
North. In the chapter on the civil war, there has already been given a
list of the New Bedford vessels destroyed. Those cruising in the At-
lantic Ocean were the first to receive attention from the noted Alabama,
and some twenty vessels were captured or destroyed during the early
part of the war. When a vessel had been captured, the rebels would
wait till night had fallen, then set fire to her, and pounce upon the ves-
sels that quickly came to the aid of the unfortunate craft. Among
those captured and burned by the Alabama were the ships Benjamin
Tucker, Osceola, Virginia, and Elisha Dunbar, of New Bedford. In
1865 the privateer steamer Shenandoah entered the Pacific Ocean and
began its raid on the whale ships in Behring Straits. In June there
were captured and burned five ships, the Isabella, Gypsey, Catharine,
General Williams, and W. C. Nye. On the 27th the ship Brunswick, of
New Bedford, was in a dangerous position, being badly jammed in the
ice. The vessels near her went to her relief, and while engaged in this
humane undertaking, the Shenandoah put in an appearance and de-
stroyed nine of them, Hillman, Isaac Howland, Nassau, Brunswick,
Waverly, Martha 2d, Congress, Favorite, and Covington. "Capt. Thomas
G. Young, of the Favorite, a Fairhaven ship, was determined not to sur-
render his ship without an effort at resistance, and although a man of

424 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

seventy years of age, he exhibited a brave and determined spirit,
worthy of a Yankee captain. He loaded all his bomb-guns and fire-
arms, and calling his crew to the defence, took position on the cabin roof
and awaited the approach of the Shenandoah's boat. He ordered the of-
ficer to ' keep off,' which he prudently complied with, for the determined
attitude of the captain was suggestive, and he returned to the Shenan-
doah to report. The privateer trained a gun on the Favorite, and the af-
fair now assumed a serious condition. Captain Young's officers, con-
vinced that resistance was useless, argued in vain with the sturdy old
man, assuring him that it would result in a needless sacrifice of life. He
was not to be changed in his attitude, for he said he would gladly die if
he could but shoot Waddell, the commander of the Shenandoah. Find-
ing their remonstrance of no avail, they secretly removed the caps from
the loaded guns, and taking to the boats, left him to defend alone his
vessel, in which he had all his fortune invested. Waddell sent another
boat, with orders to capture the plucky captain. Its officers ordered
Young to haul down his flag, to which request he forcibly replied that

he would ' see him d d first.' ' If you don't, I'll shoot you,' said the

officer. ' Shoot, and be d d,' was the sturdy reply from the brave

old man. The boat's crew then boarded the Favorite and Captain
Young proceeded to attempt the discharge of his guns. Imagine his
feelings when he discovered the fact that the caps had been removed,
and his guns were useless. One would suppose that such a display of
pluck and energy would have been generously recognized, but such was
not the fact in this case. His captors robbed him of his money, watch,
and even took his shirt-studs, and placing him in irons, put him in con-
finement." 1

Capt. Ebenezer F. Nye, of the ship Abigail, of New Bedford, per-
formed a noble service, manning two of his boats, and sending them to
notify other vessels of the fieet that the Shenandoah was upon them,
thus giving many a chance to escape its clutches. Captain Nye's ship
was destroyed by the privateer, but his brave act will be long remem-
bered in this community. The Shenandoah captured and burned thirty-
four whale ships and bonded four others, the Afi/o, General Pike, and
James Maury, of New Bedford, and the Nile, of New London.

THE DISASTER OF 1871. 425

Many interesting experiences of our seamen that relate to the oper-
ations of the rebel privateers could be related in this chapter, but space
forbids any enlargement on this topic. Enough has been given to show
ho uch the whahng industrj- had been crippled by the destruction
of so many vessels belonging to the New Bedford fleet. At the very
beginning of the war the wharves were lined with ships, that were v\ith-
drawn from the service. The fear of capture, and the enormous rates
of war risk demanded by the insurance companies, served to materially
reduce the number of vessels engaged in whaling. These idle vessels
soon found novel employment in the stone fleet, sunk in the harbor of
Charleston. By this loyal service the New Bedford fleet lo.st twenty-
five vessels.

At the close of the War of the Rebellion in 1865 the whaling enter-
prise was renewed with vigor. The development of the petroleum
fields, however, and the increased demand for this new lighting oil,
made the merchants wary and considerate in these operations. Vessels
that had been idle at the wharves were fitted and sent on their mission.
New ships were built and added to the fleet, and prosperity again
dawned upon the city. The comparative relation of tlie arctic fleet in
1858 to that of 1871 is significant and somewhat startling, for it reveals
the rapid shrinkage of the business during these years. In 1858 the
number of vessels in the North Pacific was 196; in 1871 there were
forty. It is fair to presume that this proportion would hold regarding
the number of vessels on other fishing grounds. Such was the condi-
tion of affairs when the appalling disaster of 1871 occurred to the arc-
tic fleet, and thirty-four vessels lay wrecked in the ice.

The following vivid description of this awful affair is taken from Har-
per's Weekly, December, 1871.

"Early in May, 1871, the fleet arrived south of Cape Thaddeus,
where they found the ice closely packed, and the wind blowing strong
from the northeast. This state of affairs continued during the most of
the month. June came in with light and variable winds, and foggy
weather, but the ice opening somewhat the ships pushed through in
sight of Cape Vavarine, where they took five or six whales, and for a
short time heard many more spouting among the ice. About the mid-
dle of June the ice opened still more, and the fleet passed on through

426 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

Anadir Sea, taking a few whales as they went. By the 30th of June
the vessels had passed through Behring's Straits, preceded by the
whales. Awaiting the further breaking up of the ice, they commenced
catching walruses, but with comparatively poor success. During the
latter part of July the ice disappeared from the east shore, south of Cape
Lisburne, and the fleet pushed on to the eastward, following the ice, the
principal portion of which was in latitude 69° 10'. A clear strip of
water appearing on the east shore leading along the land to the north-
east, they worked along through it to within a few miles of Icy Cape.
Here some of the vessels anchored, unable to proceed farther on account
of the ice lying on Blossom Shoals. About the 6th of August the ice on
the shoals started, and several ships got under way. In a few days most
of the fleet was north of the shoals, and, aided by favorable weather,
they worked to the northeast as far as Wainwright's Inlet, eight vessels
reaching there on the 7th. Here the ships anchored or made fast to the
ice, which was very heavy, and densely packed, and whaling was carried
on briskly for several days, and every encouragement given for a favor-
able catch. On the iith of August a sudden change of wind set the
ice in shore, catching a large number of boats, which were cruising for
whales in the open sea, and forcing the ships to get under way to avoid
being crushed The vessels worked in shore under the lee of the ground
ice, and succeeded, despite the difficulties of the situation, in saving their
boats, by hauling them for a long distance over the ice, some of them,
however, being badly stoven. On the 13th the ice grounded, leaving a
narrow strip of water along the land up to Point Belcher. In this open
water lay the fleet, anchored or fast to the ice, waiting for the expected
northeast wind, that was to relieve them of their icy barrier, whaling
being constantl}- carried on by the boats, though necessarily under many
adversities. On the 15th of August the wind came around to the west-
ward, driving the ice still closer to the shore, and compelling the vessels
to work close in to the land. The drift of the ice inland was so rapid
that some of the vessels were compelled to slip their cables, there being
no time to weigh anchor. By this event the fleet was driven into a
narrow strip of water, not over half a mile in width at its widest part.
Here, scattering along the coast for twenty miles thej- lay, the water
from fourteen to twenty-four feet deep, and ice as far as the lookouts

THE DISASTER OF 1871. 427

at the mastheads could see. Whaling was still carried on with the boats
off Sea Horse Island and Point Franklin, although the men were obliged
to cut up the whales on the ice, and tow the blubber to the ships. On
the 25th a strong northeast gale set in, and drove the ice to a distance
of from four to eight miles off shore, and renewed attention was given
to the pursuit of the whale. Up to this time no immediate danger had
been anticipated by the captains beyond that incidental to their usual
sojourn in these seas. The Esquimaux, nevertheless, with the utmost
friendliness advised them to get away with all possible speed, as the sea
would not open again. Rut this was contrary to the arctic experience
of the whalemen, and they resolved to hold their position. On the 29th
began the series of conflicting circumstances which resulted in the de-
struction of the fleet. A southwest wind sprang up, light in the morn-
ing, but freshening so towards evening that the ice returned in shore
with such rapidity as to catch some of the ships in the pack. The rest
of the fleet retreated ahead of the ice, and anchored in from three to four
fathoms of water, the ice still coming in, and small ice packing around
them. The heavy floe-ice grounded in shoal water, and between it
and the shore lay the ships, with scarcely room to swing at their anchors.
On the 2d of September the brig Comet was caught by the heavy ice
and completely crushed, her crew barely making their escape to the
other vessels. She was pinched until her timbers snapped and the
stern was forced out, and hung suspended for three or four days, being
in the mean time thoroughly wrecked by the other vessels ; then the ice
relaxed its iron grip, and she sank. Still our hardy whalemen hoped
that the looked-for northeast gale would come, and felt greater uneasi-
ness on account of the loss of time, than because of the present peril.
Their experience could not point to the time when the favoring gale had
failed to assurt their egress. Nothing but ice was visible off shore,
however, the only clear water being where they lay, and that narrowed
to a strip from 200 yards to half a mile in width, and extending from
Point Belcher to two or three miles south of Wainwright's Inlet. The
southeast and southwest winds still continued light from the former and
fresh from the latter direction, and every day the ice packed more and
more closely around the doomed vessels. Early in September the
bark Roman, while cutting in a whale, was caught between two im-

428 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

mense floes of ice off Sea Horse Island, whence she had helplessly
drifted, and was crushed to atoms. The officers and crew escaped over
the ice, saving scarcely anything but their lives. The next day the bark
Aw.xshonks met a similar fate, and a third fugitive crew was distributed
among the remaining ships The peril was now apparent to all. The
season was rapidly approaching the end, the ice showed no signs of
starting, but, on the contrary, the little clear water that remained was
rapidly filling with ice, and closing around them. Frequent and serious
were the consultations held by the captains of the beleaguered vessels.
One thing, at least, was evident without discussion: if the vessels could
not be extracted, the crews must be got away before winter set in, or
the scanty stock of provisions they had could only postpone an inevit-
able starvation. As a precautionary measure, pending a decision on
the best course to adopt, men were set to work to build up the boats,
that is, raise the gunwales so as to enable them the better to surmount
the waves. Shoes (a copper sheathing being used) were put on them, to
prevent, as far as possible, injury from the ice. The brig Kohola was
lightened in order to get her over the bar at VVainwright's Inlet, upon
which there were only five or six feet of water. Her oil and stores were
transferred to the deck of the Charlotte, of San Francisco, but when dis
charged, it was found that she still drew nine feet of water, and the at-
tempt to get her over the shoal water was abandoned. An expedition
of three boats, under the command of Capt. D. R. Frazier, was now
sent down the coast to ascertain hou' far the ice extended ; what chances
there were of getting through the barrier ; what vessels, if any, were
outside ; and what relief could be relied on. Captain Frazier returned
on the 1 2th, and reported that it was utterly impracticable to get any
of the main body of the fleet out ; that the Arctic and another vessel
were in clear water below the field, which extended to the south of
Blossom Shoals, eighty miles from the imprisoned crafts, and that five
more vessels, then fast in the lower edge of tiie ice, were likel}' to get
out soon. He also reported, what every man then took for granted,
that these free vessels would lay by to aid their distressed comrades.
It is a part of the whaleman's creed to stand by his mates. On hearing
this reported it was decided to abandon the fleet, and make the best of
their way, while they could, to the rescuing vessels. It was merely a

THE DISASTER OF y%ix. 429

question whether they should leave their ships and save their lives, or
stand by their ships and perish with them. The morning of the 14th
of September came, and a sad day it was for the crews of the ice-bound
crafts. At noon the signals, flags at the mastheads, union down, were
set, which told them that the time had come when they must sever
themselves from their vessels. As a stricken family feels when the de-
vouring flames destroy the home which was their shelter, and with it
the little souvenirs, the priceless memorials which had been so carefully
collected and so earnestly treasured, so feels the mariner when com-
pelled to tear himself from the ship, which seems to him at once parent,
friend and shelter. In these vessels lay the result of all the toil and
danger encountered by them since leaving home. Their chests con-
tained those little tokens received from or reserved for friends thousands
of miles away, and nothing could be taken with them save certain pre-
scribed and indespensable articles. With heavy hearts they entered
their boats and pulled awa}', a mournful, almost funeral flotilla, towards
where the vessels lay that were to prove their salvation. Tender women
and children were there, who, by their presence, sought to relieve the
tedium of a long voyage to their husbands and fathers, and the cold
north wind blew piteously over the frozen sea, chilling to the marrow
the unfortunate fugitives. The first night out the wanderers camped
on the beach behind the sand hills. A scanty supply of fire- wood they
had with them, and such drift-wood as they could collect, sufficed to
make a fire to protect them somewhat from the chilling frost. The
sailors dragged boats over the hills, and by turning them bottom up-
wards and covering them with sails, made quite comfortable habitations
for the women and children. The rest made themselves comfortable as
best they could. ' On the second day out,' says Captain Preble, ' the
boats reached Blossom Shoals and then spied the refuge vessels lying
five miles out from shore, and behind a tongue of ice that stretched like
a great peninsula ten miles farther down the coast, and around the point
of which they were obliged to pull before they could get aboard. The
weather here was very bad, the wind blowing fresh from the southwest,
causing a sea that threatened the little craft with annihilation. Still the
hazardous journey had to be performed, and there was no time to be
lost in setting about it. All submitted to this new danger with becom-

430 HISTORY OF NEW BEDFORD.

ing cheerfulness, and the little boats started on their almost hopeless
voyage, even the women and children smothering their apprehensions
as best they could. On the voyage along the inside of the icy point of
the peninsula everything went moderately well, but on rounding it they
encountered the full force of a tremendous southwest gale, and a sea
that would have made the stoutest ship tremble. In this fearful sea the
whale boats were tossed about like pieces of cork. They shipped quan-
titles of water from every wave which struck them, requiring the utmost
diligence of all hands at bailing, to keep them afloat. Everybody's
clothing was thoroughly saturated with the freezing brine, while all the
bread and flour in the boats was completely spoiled. The strength of
the gale was such that the Arctic, after getting her portion of the refu-
gees on board, parted her chain cable and lost her port anchor, but
brought up again with her starboard anchor, which held until the little
fleet was ready to sail. By about four o'clock in the afternoon of the
second day all were distributed among the seven vessels that formed the
remnant of the fleet that sailed for the Arctic Ocean the previous spring.
Not a person was lost to add to the grief already felt, or to increase the
gloom of the situation. To the Eiiropa were assigned 280 ; to the
Arctic, 250; to the Progress, 221 ; to the Lagoda, 195; to the Daniel
Webster, 113; to the Midas, lOO; and to the Chance, 60. In all 1,219
souls, in addition to the regular crews. On the 24th of October the
larger portion of these vessels reached Honolulu and the remaining ones
of the seven speedily followed."

The names of the New Bedford vessels that were abandoned in this
disaster were : Barks Awaslionks, v^Xwt. %<^'&,ooo; Concordia, %'ji,ooo\
Contest, $4,000 ; Elizabeth Swift, $60,000 ; Emily Morgan, $60,000 ;
Eugenia, $56,000; Fanny, $58,000; Gayhead, $40,000; George, $40-
000; Henry Taber, $52,000 ; John Wells, $40,000; Massachusetts, $46,-
000; Minerva, $50,000; Navy, $48,000; Oliver Crocker, $48,000;
Seneca, $70,000; William Rotch, $43,000; ships George Howland,
$43,000 ; Reindeer, $40,000 ; Roman, $60,000 ; Thomas Dickinson,
$50,000.

The vessels in the abandoned fleet belonging to New London were :
Barky. D. Thompson, value $45,000; ship Monticello $45,000. From
Edgartown, ships Champion, $40,000, and Mary, $57,000. From

//^T^/^:/

(j/f n^^u-'^r'c^

THE DISASTER OF 1876. 431

Honolulu, Sandwich Islands, barks Paira Ko/iola, value $20,000 ;
Comet, $20,000 ; Victoria 2d, and ship Julian, $40,000.

The receipt of the news of this terrible disaster created intense ex-
citement in New Bedford, as well it might, for it involved a loss of a
million of dollars to the merchants who had bravely undertaken to re-
store the whaling industry from the evil effects of the war. For a time
the courage of the bravest merchants was paralyzed, and it seemed as
if the results of this great misfortune would be the final abandonment of
arctic whaling. This state of affairs continued but a short time, and
in 1872 there were twenty- seven ships in the Arctic, and in 1873
twenty- nine ships. The business was seriously handicapped, for the
rates of insurance were so greatly increased as to make the prosecution
of the industry a doubtful investment. This and the increased use of
petroleum oil hindered very materially a recovery from this blighting
misfortune. The increased value of whalebone was a powerful incentive
to continue the business, and for a few years it gradually recovered its
activity in a moderate degree. To every one, however, at all con-