A REPORT
RECORD COMMISSIONERS
CITY OF BOSTON,
CONTAINING THE
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1778 TO 1783.
BOSTON:
ROCKWELL AND CHURCHILL, CITY PRINTERSc
1895.
[DOCUMENT 80 — 1895.]
A REPORT
RECORD COMMISSIONERS.
The Twenty-sixth Report of the Record Commissioners is
a continuation of the Eighteenth, and contains the proceed-
ings of the Town from 1778 through 1783, concluding the
period of the Revolution.
WM. H. WHITMORE,
Gity Registrar.
OLD COURT HOUSE, BOSTON.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS.
[SIXTH BOOK, CONTINUED.]
[151.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston, duely qualified & legally warned, in public
Town Meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall, the 5th. Day of March
Anno Domini 1778.
Warrant for calling the Meeting read —
The Honble. John Hancock Esq. was unanimously chosen
Moderator of this Meeting.
The Comittee appointed by the Town the 5th. of March last,
to apply to a proper Gentleman to deliver an Oration the 5th. of
March instant, to perpetuate the Memory of the horrid Massacre
perpetrated on the Evening of the 5th. of March 1770, by a Party
of Soldiers under the Command of Capt. Thomas Preston of the
29th Regiment — Reported —
That having met together several Times for the Purpose
mentioned in the Town Vote, they had unanimously made Choice
of Jonathan William Austin Esq to deliver an Oration on the 5th.
of March instant ; who had accordingly accepted of that Service.
The above Report having been made by the Chairman of the
Comittee, the Question was put — Whether the same shall be
accepted — Passed in the Affirmative.
Upon a Motion made the Town took into Consideration, what
would be the best Time to have the Oration pronounced ; as also
what Place would be most suitable for the Purpose-1— Whereupon
Voted, That the Oration be delivered at \ past 12 O'Clock, at
the Old Brick Meeting House, the Hall not being capacious
enough to receive the Inhabitants that attend on the Occasion —
The Committee of that Society having before consented, that the
Meeting House should be made Use of for this Purpose.
Voted that Joseph Greenleaff Esq.
The Honble. John Pitts Esq.
Ellis Gray Esq.
[152,] Be a Comittee to wait on Jonathan William Austin
Esq. & acquaint him that it is the Desire of the Town, that the
Oration may be delivered at the Old Brick Meeting House, at £
past Twelve O'Clock this Day.
Voted, that this Meeting be adjourned to the Old Brick Meeting
House, \ past 12 O'Clock.
2 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
The Town met according to Adjournment | past 12 O'Clock at
the Old Brick Meeting House —
The Committee appointed to wait on Jonathan William Austin
Esq. to acquaint him with the Vote of the Town, respecting the
Time & Place for the Delivery of an Oration — Reported —
That said Gentleman was ready to comply with the Orders of
the Town.
An Oration to commemorate the horrid Massacre of the Fifth of
March 1770, & to impress upon the Minds of the Citizens the
ruinous Tendency of standing Armies, being placed in free &
populous Cities &c. was delivered by Jonathan William Austin
Esq to a large & crowded Audience and received by them with
great Applause
Upon a Motion made & seconded
Voted that the Honble. Samuel Adams Esq.
Mr. Joseph Barrel
Ellis Gray Esq.
Samuel Barrel Esq.
Honble. John Pitts Esq.
Mr. Elias Parkman
Joseph Greenleaff, Esq.
be, & hereby are appointed a Coiiiittee to wait upon Jonathan
William Austin Esq. & in the Name of the Town to thank him for
the spirited & elegant Oration delivered by him at their Request,
in Commemoration of the horrid Massacre [153.] Perpetrated
on the Evening of the Fifth of March 1770, by a Party of Soldiers
of the 29th. Regiment, under the Command of Captain Thomas
Preston, & to request of him a Copy thereof for the Press.
On a Motion made & seconded
Voted that
The Honble. Samuel Adams
Nathaniel Barber Esq.
William Cooper Esq.
John Pitts Esq.
John Scollay Esq.
Jonathan William Austin Esq.
Perez Morton Esq.
be, & hereby are appointed a Committee, to apply to a proper
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the 5th. of March next, to
perpetuate the Memory of the horrid Massacre perpetrated on the
Evening of the 5th. of March 1770, by a Party of Soldiers of the
29th. Regiment, under the Command of Capt. Thomas Preston ; &
to impress on our Minds the ruinous Tendency of standing Armies
being placed in free & populous Cities, in a Time of Peace ; &
the Necessity of such Noble Exertions, in all future Times, as the
Inhabitants of the Town then made, whereby the Designs of the
Conspirators against the public Peace, may be still frustrated.
A small Collection was made at this Meeting for Mr. Christopher
Monk, a young Man now languishing under a Wound he received
in his Lungs, by a Shot from Preston's bloody Party of Soldiers
on the 5th. of March 1770.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
BOSTON TOWN EECORDS, 1778. 3
[154.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston duely qualified & legally warned, in public
Town Meeting assembled at Faueuil Hall on Monday the 9th Day
of March Anno Domini 1778.
Prayer was made by the Revd. Dr. Cooper.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read.
Sundry Laws enjoined to be read at this Meeting were accord-
ingly read
The Honble. John Hancock Esq was chosen Moderator of this
Meeting by a Majority of Votes, & took his Seat accordingly.
Mr. William Cooper was chosen Town Clerk for the Year en-
suing, by a Majority of Votes, & took the Oath of Office for the
faithful Discharge of his Duty, which Oath was administred by
Joseph Greenleaff Esq.
The Town proceeded to the Choice of nine Selectmen, & the
Votes being brought in & sorted, it appeared, that
John Scollay Esq.
Samuel Austin Esq.
Oliver Wendeell Esq.
John Pitts Esq.
Capt Gustavus Fellows
Mr. Harbottle Dorr
Thomas Greenough
Jonathan Williams Esq.
Capt John Preston
were chose Selectmen for the Year ensuing.
The Inhabitants bro't in their Votes for Twelve Overseers of
the Poor & upon sorting them it appear'd that
The Honble. William Phillips Esq.
Issac Smith Esq.
[155.] Mr. Jonathan Mason
Capt Samuel Partridge
Mr. Samuel Whitwell
Mr. John White
Edward Procter Esq.
William Powell Esq.
Mr. John Sweetser junr.
Samuel Barret Esq.
Mr. Samuel Hewes
Mr. Nicholas Bowes
were chosen Overseers of the Poor for the year ensuing.
Adjourned to 3 O'Clock P.M.
3 'Clock P.M. met according to Adjournment
Upon a Motion made & seconded, the Question was put,
Whether Collectors of Taxes shall be chose seperate from Con-
stables — Passed in the Affirmative.
On a Motion made the Question was put — Whether the sum of
Five Pounds shall be remitted out of the Ten Pounds Fine to such
Persons as shall be chose into the Office of Constable for the Year
ensuing — Passed in the Negative.
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for twelve Wardens, &
upon sorting them it appeared, that
4 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Mr. Henderson Inches ... excused
Mr. Nathan Frazier
Mr. Harbottle Dorr
Mr. William Bant 1)°.
Mr. William McNiel
Mr. Nathaniel Barret
Capt Isaac Phillips
Mr. Edward Grant - - - - D°.
Mr. Samuel Dyer
[156.] Mr. Joseph Callender
Mr. John May
Capt Jacob Williams
were chosen Wardens for the Year ensuing.
The Inhabitants brought in their votes for a CoiTiittee of Corre-
spondence, Inspection & Safety, & upon Sorting them it appeared
that
Capt Nathaniel Barber
Mr. William Davis ----- excused
Perez Morton Esq.
Mr. Ebenezer Dorr D°.
John Winthrop Esq. D°.
Capt John Simkins
Mr. Moses Grant
Dr. Peter Roberts
Capt Amassa Davis - - - - - " - D°.
Mr. Edward Green
Mr. John Lowell
were chose a Comittee of Correspondence, Inspection and Safety
for the Year ensuing
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for Sixteen Fire Wards,
& upon sorting them it appear'd, that
John Scollay Esq.
Newman Greenough Esq. - - excused
William Cooper Esq.
Edward Proctor Esq.
Francis Shaw Esq.
Capt John Pulling
Ebenezer Hancock Esq.
Paul Reviere Esq.
Major Andrew Symmes
Thomas Crafts Esq.
[157.] Capt Joseph Webb
John Winthrop Esq.
Mr. Thomas Tileston
Capt Gustavus Fellows
Capt John Ballard
Caleb Davis Esq.
were chose Fire Wards for the Year ensuing.
The Inhabitants, brought in their Votes for a Town Treasurer,
& upon sorting them it appeared, that
David Jeffries Esq.
was chosen Town Treasurer for the Year ensuing.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1778. 5
Mess". William Crafts
John Lambert junr.
Nathaniel Wales
Moses Ayres
Samuel Dyer
were chose Fence Viewers for the Year ensuing.
Mess8. John Champney
John Page
Edward Ranger
Joseph Ballard
Benjamin Page
William Ellison
Joseph Butler
Nathan Bradley
Elisha Byles
William Moor
Andrew Symmes
Thomas Uran
John Neal
Nathan Hancock
Benjamin Eustis
William Todd
Henry Blaisdel
[158.] Were chose Surveyors of Boards for the Year ensuing.
Capt Edward Games
was chosen a Surveyor of Hemp for the Year ensuing
Mess9. William Andrews
Joseph Clark
Nathan Green
Samuel Bangs
were chose Sealers of Leather for the Year ensuing.
Mr. Adam Colson
was chose an Informer of Deer for the Year ensuing.
Mess8. Manasseh Masters
Joseph Dyer
John Owen
Joshua Pico
Benjamin Bernard
Samuel Haley
Job Wheelwright
Paul Baxter
Nathan Spear
Edward Cowell
Ebenezer Woodward
were chose Cullers of Staves for the Year ensuing.
Mess9. Charles Simpson
Nathan Cobbet
Benjamin Wheeler
were chose Hogreeves for the Year ensuing.
Mr. William Mc.Fadden was chosen a Hayward for the Year
ensuing.
6 CITY DOCUMENT No. )SO,
Mess8. John Sigorney ------ Wards N°.l.
John Lambert- ------ -2.
John Cumberfoot --._--.. 3.
John Coggshell --------- 4.
[159.] "Mess". Thomas Baley Ward N°. 5.
Moses Bradley --------- 6.
Elijah Campbell ------ - - 7.
Edward Gray ---------- 8.
Daniel Parks ---------- 9.
John Ballard - - 10.
Stephen Cleverly -- n.
John Lucas ------_-.- 12.
were chose Scavingers for the Year ensuing
On a Motion made, Voted, that the Choice of Constables be re-
ferred to the Adjournment.
Votes for a County Treasurer being brought in, & sealed up in
Town Meeting, were delivered to Mr. Constable Thomas, to be by
him returned to the Court of General Sessions of the Peace at
their next Meeting
The Inhabitants bro't in their Votes for Twelve Assessors, &
upon sorting them it appeared, that —
Deacon Jonathan Brown
Gyles Harris Esq.
Mr. William Lowder
Mr. George B. Gidney
Deacon Thomas Foster
John R. Sigorney
Edward Green
Samuel Dyer
Capt William Fleet
Capt Samuel Dogget
were chosen Assessors for the Year ensuing.
The Selectmen were chose Surveyors of High Ways for the
Year ensuing. —
Mess". John Lucas
John White
were chose Surveyors of Wheat for the Year ensuing.
[16O.J Jonathan Williams Esq.
Mr John Sweetser
Mr. Timothy Newell
were chose Purchasers of Grain for the Year ensuing ; & they are
desired & impower'd to give all needful Direction to the Keeper
of the Granary ; respecting the Quantity of Grain to be soid &
affixing the Price thereof from time to time, as Occasion shall re-
quire : And the said Comittee are desired & directed to cause all
the Grain belonging to the Town, to be ground at the New Mills
near the Mill-Bridge
Mess8. Thomas Green
John Skinner
were chose Assay Masters for the Year ensuing
. Voted, that
Mr. Thomas Walley
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1778. 7
Mr. Ezekiel Price
Thomas Daws Esq.
Ebenezer Storer Esq.
Mr. Edward Green
be & they hereby are appointed a Comittee to audit the Accounts
of David Jeffries Esq. Treasurer, & also the Accounts of the
Overseers of the Poor ; & the said Comittee are impowered, when
they shall audit said Accounts, to allow such of the Overseers,
as shall advance Money for the Relief of the poor, Interest on all
such Sums from the time so advanced, until they shall have au-
dited ; & they are also desired to report from time to Time, a State
of the Treasury respecting Debts and Credits, & on any Matters
that they may think proper.
Voted that this Meeting be adjourned to Wednesday next, 10
O'Clock Forenoon.
Wednesday 11th. of March, 10 O'Clock Forenoon, Met accord-
ing to Adjournment.
The Town brought in their Votes for two Assessors, & on
sorting them it appear'd that Mr. Joseph Henderson & Mr. Benja-
min Edes were chose Assessors for the Year ensuing.
[161.] On a Motion made Voted, that this Meeting be ad-
journed to 3 O'Clock P.M.
3 O'Clock, P.M. met according to Adjournment.
The Honble. John Hancock Esq. the Moderator of this Meeting
being obliged to attend the House of Representatives, Mr. Ezekiel
Price was chosen a Moderator Pro. Temp, by a hand Vote.
The Inhabitants bro't in their Votes for a Warden & upon
sorting them it appeared, that Capt. Gustavus Fellows was chosen
a Warden for the Year ensuing.
Mr. Benjamin Wheeler chosen One of the Hogreeves was
excused by the Town from serving in that Office.
Mr. Thomas Hitchburne was chosen a Hogreeve for the Year
ensuing.
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for four Collectors of
Taxes, & upon sorting them it appeared, that
Mess8. Josiah Torry
Francis Shaw
Benjamin Cudworth
Benjamin Sumner
were chose Collectors of Taxes for the Year ensuing.
Voted, That the Assessors be, & hereby are impowered &
directed to set for Abatement of such Taxes, as they shall judge
reasonable, on every clay of the Month following the Delivery of
the Tax Books to the Collectors, Lord's Days excepted, & no
longer, saving that they be allowed to set the two last Weeks
in November, for the Abatement of the Taxes of such Persons, as
had not an Opportunity of applying in the above limited Time, by
reason of their being out of the State ; at which time they are also
allowed [162.] And impowered to abate the Taxes of such Persons
as may have died insolvent before the last Day of November.
8 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Voted, that the Consideration of Schoolmasters Salaries, & all
other Salaries & Grants, be referred over to the next May Meet-
ing.
On a Motion made,
Voted, that the Consideration of Collectors Premiums be re-
ferred to next May Meeting.
On a Motion made,
Voted, that Mr. Ezekiel Price
Mr. Thomas Walley
Thomas Daws Esq.
Mr. John Sweetser
Mr. Joseph Henderson
Samuel Barret Esq.
Mr. Gibbins Sharp
be a Committee to consider & report at the Adjournment, what
Sum of Money it will be necessary to raise by a Tax to defray
the Expences of the Year ensuing.
The Article in the Warrant, Viz: "To consider — Whether,
agreeable to an Application of the House of Representatives,
some more effectual Measures inaj' be taken for the immediate
Collecting the State Tax " — was read.
Whereupon, the Collectors were called upon, when they made it
appear to the Town, that they had paid in to the State Treasury,
the whole of the State Tax, which had been committed to them to
collect of the Inhabitants of this Town.
The Article in the Warrant, Viz : " To consider whether, agree-
able to a late Act of the General Court, a Comittee shall not
now be chosen to make Provision for the Families of such non-
commissioned Officers & Soldiers, as have engaged in the Con-
tinental Service" —was read & Considered, whereupon
[163.] Voted, that
Nathaniel Appleton Esq.
Mr. Henderson Inches
Thomas Daws Esq.
Mr. John Sweetser
Mr. Ebenezer Dorr
Mr. Nathan Frazier
be a Comittee to consider & report on this Matter at the Ad-
journment.
The Article in the Warrant, Viz : " What Method shall be taken
to obtain Relief, in regard to the present extraordinary high Price
of Provisions, & other necessary Articles of Life?" was read —
Whereupon,
Voted, that Mr. Samuel Whitwell
Mr. Ezekiel Price
Samuel Barret Esq.
Mr. Joseph Barret
Mr. Thomas Walley
be a Committee to consider & report at the Adjournment what
they judge best to be done.
Voted, that this Meeting be adjourned to Monday next, the
16th. of March instant, 10 O'Clock Forenoon.
BOSTOX TOWN RECORDS, 1778. 9
March 16th. 10 O'Clock A.M. Town met according to Adjourn-
ment.
On a Motion made Voted, that the Choice of Clerks of the Mar-
ket be referred over to the Adjournment.
The Selectmen acquainted the Town, that they had met the
Physicians, who declared their Readiness to Innoculate the poor
Inhabitants, & attend them Gratis, but expected that the neces-
sary Medicines should be found them.
Voted, that the Town will pay the Expence that may arise by
the Poor Inhabitants, who shall be inuoculated, being supplied
with Medicines, to carry them through the Small Pox.
[164.] The Committee appointed to consider what Method
shall be taken to obtain Relief in regard to the present extraordi-
nary high Price of Provisions, & other necessary Articles of Life "
— Report
That it is their opinion, that One Great Reason of the present
Excessive Price of Provisions in this Town arises from the
Averice Injustice & Inhumanity of certain Persons within Twenty
Miles of it, who purchase great Part of the same of Farmers living
at a greater Distance, & put an exorbitant Advance upon it,
which our Necessities oblige us to give ; while they, having mon-
opolized it, deal it out to us in such Quantities as they please, at
a Time when the necessary Provision making for the Army, & the
Consumption by so large a Body of the Enemies Troops in the
Vicinity deprive us of the natural Relief we should otherwise have
received from the uncommon Plenty, with which Heaven has
crowned the Year.
That to remedy so great an Evil & to save the Town from utter
Destruction, they are of Opinion that the following things ought
to be attempted, & if attended with Success would prove effectual.
First — That a decent, yet spirited Memorial be presented to the
General Assembly, setting forth the unexampled Cruelty &
Oppression, under which the Town labours from certain Persons
in the Country, in Addition to their other Distresses, praying their
Interposition, & humbly proposing as (in the Opinion of the
Town) the most efficacious Remedy, that as severe a Law, in
Addition to those already in Being, as can be framed, may be en-
acted against the inhuman & unrighteous Practice of monopolizing
the Necessaries of Life, & forestalling this Market. —
Secondly — That an Agreement be earnestly recommended to
the more opulent Inhabitants of the Town, to be entered into by
Subscription, for the Relief of the more indigent, that in order to
reduce the Price, so far as lessing the Demand will do it, they will
on no Occasion whatever, have more than Two Dishes of Meat on
the same Day on their Table — and that they will avoid the Use
of Poultry, & every other Superfluity as much as possible.
[165.] Thirdly — That the Inhabitants agree universally to
make two Dinners p Week on Fish, if to be had.
The foregoing Report having been read & considered — the
Question was put — "Whether the same shall be accepted —
Passed in the Affirmative — Also
Voted, that Mess*. Joseph Barrel
10 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Thomas Walley
Edward Carnes
John Reed
Major Samuel White
Capt John Byles
Ebenezer Hancock Esq.
be a Committee to draw up an Agreement conformable to the
foregoing Report, & that they endeavour to procure Subscriptions
to the same.
Voted, that the foregoing Committee be desired to prepare a
Petition to the General Court, relative to Forestallers of the
Market, & that they report the same at the Adjournment.
The Committee appointed " to consider & report at the Ad-
journment, what Sums of Money it may be necessary to grant for
the Payment of the Schoolmasters, for the relief of the Poor, and
defraying other necessary Charges " — Report,
That in a Review of the Charges of Supplies to the Aims-
House, & to the poor of the Town in the several Wards, for the
Six preceding Months, & on the most reasonable Estimate of the
Sums necessary (considering the great Decline of Trade) to the
Continuance of said Supplies for the Year ensuing, as well as to
the Carding great Numbers of the Poor wholly, & others partly,
through the Expences of the Small Pox — as also from a View of
furnishing the Assessors with a sufficient Fund for making Abate-
ments in Taxes, pursuant to a Vote of the Town for that purpose,
to such Persons as shall make it appear that they have been
aggrieved in the same ; and of making provision for the Payment
of Schoolmasters, & for other [166.]' Necessary Charges ; they
are of Opinion, that the Sum of Ten Thousand Pounds will be
necessary for said Purposes ; & that it is on every Account most
eligible that the same be granted, assessed & collected as speedily
as possible.
The foregoing Report being read & considered — the Question
was put — Whether the same shall be accepted — Passed in the
Affirmative.
Voted, that the Sum of Ten thousand Pounds be raised by a
Tax upon Polls & Estates within this Town for the Relief of the
Poor & defraying other necessary Charges arising within the
Town the ensuing Year.
The Committee appointed " To consider what is necessary to be
done respecting the Families of the Non-commissioned Officers &
Soldiers, who have engaged in the Continental Army, in Con-
formity to a Resolve of the General Court, passed September the
29th. — " Report,
That a Commissary be immediately appointed, whose Business
shall be to provide a Quantity of Indian Meal, Rye Meal, Beef,
Pork, Rice & Wood, & dispose of the same to the Families of the
Non-commissioned Officers & Soldiers in Town, who have in-
listed into the Continental Army, agreeable to the aforesaid Re-
solve ; — and that the Sum of four thousand Pounds be assessed
immediately for that Purpose upon the Inhabitants in Addition to
the Ten thousand Pounds, already Voted to defray the Common
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1778. 11
Expences of the Town, the ensuing Year; & that the Town
Treasurer be directed & impowered, to pay the same unto the
Commissary that shall be chosen, as the said Monies are paid into
the Treasury.
The foregoing Report having been read, it was moved, & the
Question accordingly put — Whether the farther Consideration
thereof shall be referred to the Adjournment — which passed in
the Affirmative.
[167.] On a Motion made, Voted, that this Meeting be Ad-
journed to Tuesday next, being the 17th. instant, 10 O'Clock
Forenoon.
Tuesday the 17th. Day of March, 10 O'Clock Forenoon, Town
met according to Adjournment.
The Report of the Committee appointed to consider what is
necessary to be djone by the Town respecting the Families of- the
Non-commissioned Officers & Soldiers, who have engaged in the
Continental army &c — was again read & considered, & the
Question being put — Whether the same shall be accepted —
Passed in the Affirmative. — Also
Voted, that Mess". John Sigorney - - - - Wards N°. 1 ,
John Bullard 2.
Nathaniel Hitchburne ------ 3.
Gibbins Sharp - - - - - - 4.
Thomas Hitchburne 5.
Joseph Hall - 6.
Nathan Frazier 7.
Benjamin Jepson ,---8.
Jeremiah Belknap -------9.
Thomas Daws Esq. 10.
Hermon Brimmer 11.
Thomas Baley 12.
be a Committee, with such Persons as they shall -think proper to
invite, to take a Memorandum of the Names of the Non-comis-
sioned Officers & Soldiers, who went from Boston into the Con-
tinental Army ; the Town for which they went, &, when it can be
ascertained, the Company & Regiment into which they enlisted ;
what Family they now have in Boston to be provided for, agrea-
ble to an Act of the General Court, passed 1777
Mess3. Abraham Hayward
Clement Collins junr.
were chosen Surveyors of Boards for the Year ensuing.
[168.] The Article in the Warrant Viz: "To consider &
determine what is proper to be done relative to the Proceeds of
the damaged Fire Arms, that were put into the Hands of a Com-
mittee for purchasing new Arms for the Use of the Militia " — was
read, whereupon
Voted, that the Selectmen be a Committee to make Inquiry, &
report at the Adjournment.
The Committee who received two hundred and fifty one Pounds
seven Shillings & Two pence from the General Court, for the de-
fective Fire Arms, belonging to the Inhabitants of the Town of
12 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Boston, for the Purpose of purchasing Arms — Report the follow-
ing Account, Viz.
To Cash paid for 28 Fire Arms Dr. £122 - 4 —
Ballance due to the Town 256 - 3 - 2
£378 -7-2
By Cash received for Fire Arms sold - - - - Cr. 127
By Cash from the Town Treasurer - - - - 251 - 7 - 2
£378 - 7 - 2
Boston March 9th. 1778
Errors excepted
JOHN MARSTON, Chairman
The foregoing Report having been read.
Voted, that Mess8. John Marston
Joseph Barrel
Capt Jacob Williams
Mr. Martin Brimmer
Capt Joseph Webb
be a Committee to lay out the foregoing Ballance of £256 - 3 - 2
in Capt Marston's Hands, of the Produce of damaged Arms sold,
in good Fire Arms, to supply such of the Militia in this Town, as
are without them, they paying for the same ; & to continue pur-
chasing with the Money received for what they sell.
Voted, that this Meeting be adjourned to Monday next 22d. of
March instant, 3'Clock P.M.
[169.] Monday 22d. March 1778, 3 O'Clock Afternoon, met
according to Adjournment
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for four Members of the
Committee of Correspondence &c, & upon sorting them it appeared,
that
Mess3. Joseph Henderson
Joseph Hall
Capt William Brown
Mr. Foster Condy
were chosen Members of the Committee of Correspondence, In-
spection & Safety for the Year ensuing.
Mess8. Samuel Greenleaff
George Hamlin
were chose Hogreeves for the Year ensuing.
Newman Greenough having on Account of his Age desired to
be excused from serving as a Fire Ward, he was accordingly ex-
cused from serving.
On a Motion made, Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be &
hereby are given to Newman Greenough Esq. for his long & faith-
ful Services, as a Fire Ward.
The Inhabitants having brought in their Votes for a Fire Ward
it appeared that
Mr. John Lowell
was chosen a Fire Ward for the Year ensuing.
BOSTOX Towx RECORDS, 1778. 13
The Committee appointed to prepare a Draught of a Petition to
the General Court, relative to Forestallers of the Market &c —
Reported the following Draught, Viz.
To the Honble. the Council & House of Representatives of the
State of Massachusetts Bay,
The Memorial of the Town of Boston humbly sheweth,
That their Distresses are great on Account [17O.] Of
the very extraordinary Price of every Necessary of Life from
the Country, that although the Charge of raising the Produce
of the Land is but little greater on any Account than hereto-
fore, nor so great, if we advert to the general Custom, with
respect to the principal Article Labour, the Farmer has been in
of paying One Bushel of Corn for a Days Work, whereas the
Nominal Sum is Eighteen Shillings lawful Money, yet three Pecks
of Corn will pay it; and altho' the Blessing of Heaven has
produced an unusual abundance, yet they are pained to observe,
they are obliged to give eight times as much for their Provisions
as they formerly gave ; and considering the Sacrifice they have
made of their Trade & Substance to the General Good, which can
easily be proved to have operated hitherto entirely for the Good
of the Landholder, they are constrained to say this cruel Con-
duct is without a Paralel in the History of Mankind ! — Your
Memorialists would by no Means extend this to the Country
indiscriminately, as there are some Instances of Brotherly Kind-
ness, happy for this Town were they more common.
Your Memorialists are sure their uncommon Sufferings are
greatly encreased by the more than Brutish Conduct of those
Wretches within a few Miles of this Capital known in the odious
Character of Forestallers, who, lost to the Feelings of Humanity,
purchase from those at a Distance, & retail it out to these un-
happy distressed Inhabitants, at a Price suited to their unfeel-
ing Hearts, & many of them add Insult to their Extortion.
Your Memorialists apprehensive it will be impossible for them
to subsist, unless a Stop is put to so merciless and distinctive a
Practice, pray your Honors, that an effectual Law may be enacted
against this Species of Wretches, & the Town thereby receive
some Alleviation to this particular Distress.
[171.] ' The foregoing . Memorial being read & considered the
same was accepted by the Town, & the Selectmen directed to sign
the same, & present it to the General Court
Mr. Edward Grant & Mr. William Bant having desired to be
excused from serving as Wardens, for Reasons offered to the
Town — they were accordingly excused.
On a Motion made, Voted, that this Meeting be adjourned to
Fryday next, 3 O'Clock P.M.
Fryday March 27th. 3 O'Clock afternoon, Town met according
to Adjournment.
The Honble. John Hancock Esq. the Moderator of this Meeting
being absent, the Town made Choice of Mr. Ezekiel Price as
Moderator Pro Temp, by a Hand Vote — Mr. Price not being
able to attend.
14 CITY DOCUMENT No- 80.
Benjamin Kent Esq. was chosen Moderator of this Meeting Pro
Temp, by a Hand Vote.
The Report of the Committee appointed to consider what is
necessary to be done by the Town, respecting the Families of the
Non-commissioned Officers & Soldiers, who have engaged in the
Continental Army in Conformity to a Resolve of the General
Court, passed September the 29th — was again read, & being
duely considered, the Question was put — Whether the same shall
be accepted? — Passed in the Affirmative. — Also,
Voted, that the Sum of four thousand Pounds be raised, by a
Tax upon Polls & Estates within this Town for the Supply of the
Families of the Non-commissioned Officers & Soldiers in the Con-
tinental Army, in Addition to the Ten thousand pounds already
Voted for the other Services of the Town, agreeable to the Report
of the Committee.
The Town bro't in their Votes for a Commissary to supply
the Families of the Soldiers enlisted into the Continental Army
agreable to the Report of the Committee, & upon sorting them it
appeared, that
[172.] Capt. John Simkins
was chosen Commissary for the Purpose aforesaid.
Voted, that David Jeffries Esq. Town Treasurer be, & he hereby
is impowered & directed to borrow upon interest on the Credit of
the Town, four thousand Pounds Voted to be assessed on the In-
habitants, for the purpose of supplying Soldiers Families, & that
he pay the same, as it shall be borrowed to Capt. John Simkins
chosen a Commissiary to supply the Families of the Continental
Soldiers in this Town.
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for two Wardens, &
upon sorting them it appeared, that
Mr. Benjamin Jepson
Capt. William Brown
were chosen Wardens for the Year ensuing.
Voted, that all Matters & Things which remain unfinished be
referred over to the General Town Meeting in May next, then to
be considered & acted upon.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duely qualified & legally warned in public Town
Meeting assembled, at Faneuil Hall, on Saturday the 14th. of
March Anno Domini 1778 — 10 O'Clock A.M.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read.
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw & bring in their
Votes for a Moderator, and the same being bro't in and sorted it
appeared that,
The Honble. Samuel Adams Esq.
was chosen, who took his place accordingly.
The Article in the Warrant Viz. "To consider and determine
what is proper to be done with respect to the Small Pox, [173.]
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1778. 15
Which, in the Righteous Providence of God, appears likely to take
a sudden Spread in this Town " — was read.
The Selectmen laid before the Town a State of the Small Pox,
by which it appeared, that, besides those who had been removed
to the Hospitals there were about fifteen Families now visited
with that Distemper — and from the Accounts given by others,
there was reason to conclude that, a greater Number of Houses
-was infected.
It being suggested that D'. Danforth a Physician of this Town
had inoculated a Number of the Inhabitants
Voted that Col : Daws
Mr. Joseph Barrel
Ellis Gray Esq.
be a Committee to confer with Dr. Danforth relative to said Sug-
gestion.
The forenamed Committee having conferred with Dr. Danforth,
Reported, that the Doctor had assured them, that there was no
foundation for the Report — that he had not inoculated any One
himself, & knew of no One that had been inoculated by any other
Physician.
Voted, that this Meeting be adjourned to 4 O'Clock in the
Afternoon.
4 O'Clock P.M. Town met according to Adjournment
It having been suggested, that an Order had passed the Honble.
Board, or General Court, permitting a Number of Col: Crafts
Regiment of the Train to be inoculated in this Town, the Deputy
Secretary Mr. Avery was desired to attend the Meeting.
The Deputy Secretary attended, & laid the following Resolve,
which passed the General Assembly the 12th. Instant, before the
Town, Viz.
Resolved, that Dr. Joseph Gardner, be, & hereby is impowered
to improve the Hospital at West Boston for the [174.] Sole
purpose of innoculating such of the Soldiers in Col. Crafts Regi-
ment, as may be willing to receive the Small Pox under the
Direction of the Selectmen of the Town of Boston, who are hereby
directed to put said Hospital under such Regulation, as has by
them been heretofore established, & to continue their Vigilance to
prevent the spreading of said Distemper ; & Col. Tho9. Crafts is
hereby directed to afford said Selectmen such Guards & other
Assistance is his power ; as said Selectmen shall require.
The Town having duel}' considered what had been laid -before
them relative to the Small Pox, it was moved that the Sense of
the Town be taken theron, by the following Question being put,
Viz. " Whether there is, in their Opinion, a rational Probability
that, under present Circumstances, the Spread of the Small Pox
may be prevented," & the same being put, it appeared to be the
Sense of the Town, that it could not.
It was then moved, & the Question accordingly put, —
" Whether such Persons, Inhabitants of this Town, who have not
had the Small Pox, may be permitted immediately to innoculate"
— Passed in the Affirmative.
16 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
It was also moved & accordingly Voted, that the Physicians of
this Town be desired, that they do not innoculate any Persons for
the Small Pox after the 24th. of March instant.
Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to acquaint the Physicians
of the Town with the preceeding Vote, & that a strict Compliance
with the same is expected from them.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders, & other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duely qualified & legally warned, in public Town
Meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 4th. day of May
Anno Domini 1778.
[175.] Warrant for calling the Meeting .... read —
The Inhabitants were desired to withdraw and bring in their
Votes, for a Moderator of this Meeting, & the same being bro't
in & sorted, it appeared, that,
The Honble. John Hancock Esq was unanimously chosen Mod-
erator.
Several Resolves of the General Assembly of this State, rela-
tive to new Draughts of Men, — were laid before the Town by
Col: Hatch, & read by their Orders.
The Article in the Warrant Viz. " To consider & determine
upon a Method for raising in the most expeditious & least burden-
some Way, the Eighty Six Men ordered by the General Assembly
of this State, to be draughted from the Boston Regiment, to serve
in the Continental Army, or otherwise to act therein as they may
judge best," — was read, & after some Consideration had thereon —
It was moved & carried, that a Committee be appointed to take
this Matter into Consideration, & to report what they shall judge
to be best for the Town to do thereon, at the Adjournment of this
Meeting
Voted, that Caleb Davis Esq.
Mr. Joseph Barrel
Thomas Daws Esq
Col: John Hatch
Mr. Henderson Inches
Mr. Ebenezer Dorr
Col: Thomas Tyng
Major Edward Procter
. Mr. Hermon Brimmer
Mr. Ezekiel Price
Major Joseph Webb
Mr. John Reed
Mr. Thomas Walley
[176.] Be a Committee for the Purpose aforesaid
A Letter from General Heath urging the immediate Cleansing
of the Town from the Small Pox &c was read — and the Inhabi-
tants afterwards desired to proceed in cleansing their Houses, with
all possible Dispatch.
On a Motion made Voted, that this Meeting be adjourned to
Tuesday the 6th: instant, 10 O'Clock in the Forenoon.
BOSTON TOWN EECORDS, 17780 17
Tuesday May 6th. 10 O'Clock Forenoon met according to Ad-
journment
The Committee appointed by the Town to consider at large the
State of the Town ; their Proportion of the Army, & the easiest &
most expeditious Manner to raise the Eighty Six Men now ordered
by the General Court, without adverting (at this time) to the
Propriety or Impropriety of the Measui-e, with respect to this
Town, — Report
That the easiest way will be by giving them a handsome
Bounty.
They therefore propose to the Town, that a Bounty of Sixty
pounds lawful Money, including the State Bounty — mentioned in
the Resolve, be given to every person inlisting to make up the
Number of Fifty men, ordered to join General Washington for
Nine Months ; & a Bounty of Thirty Pounds to every Person in-
listing to make up the Number Thirty Six men, ordered to the
North River for Eight Mouths, who are considered as a Detach-
ment from the Militia.
These Bounties will amount to four thousand & Eighty pounds,
to raise which the Committee adv.ise, that about Six hundred
pounds now in the hands of the Town Treasurer for this purpose,
& also the Sum of about four hundred pounds, generously
raised by the Independent Company on this Occasion, be immedi-
ately delivered to Col: Hatch, & that the remaining [177.]
Sum of about three thousand & Eighty pounds, be borrowed by
Subscription, which Sum shall be added to the next Town Tax &
for the Repayment thereof the Town Treasurer be directed to give
his Notes accordingly.
That Col: Hatch be desired to appoint some proper Persons to
beat up for Voluntiers until next Tuesday, on which Day the several
Companies to be raised, & the Deficiency (if any at that time) be
then draughted from the Companies : The Committee think it of
very great Consequence, that the several Companies be enjoined,
on no Terms, & in no way, to encrease the Bounty above men-
tioned, as now the Men will be all on the same footing, & knowing
the Extent of the Bounty, those who intend to enlist will do it
immediately.
The Committee would farther advise (should the Col: be re-
duced to the disagreeable Necessity of draughting men, and any
persons so draughted should pay their Fines) that the Fines
so raised should be put into the Treasury, in order to make up
the Sum now promised by the Town, & not as heretofore has
been the Custom, divide it among those who should afterwards
inlist.
The Committee think it highly expedient, that due Care should
be now taken to ascertain the Men raised, that they are for this
Town. Had this been done in the late Levies, this Town had
been delivered from this oppressive Draught, & saved a very large
Sum of Money.
The Town will do well to consider, that by the present Resolve
of the General Court, no man from this Town, or any other, is
allowed to inlist for any Town, but that they belong to ; so that
18 CITY DOCUMENT No. 8U.
those who may expect larger Advantages, will assuredly be
disappointed.
The foregoing Report having been read & considered, it was
Voted, that the same be accepted — & that the Committee be
desired to sit again & report further at the next Meeting. — Also
[178.] Voted, thatMr. William Davis
Dr. John Loriug
Mr. Nicholas Bowes
Mr. Daniel Parker
Mr. William Gooch
be a Comittee to procure Subscriptions agreable to the foregoing
Report.
On a Motion made Voted, that the Town will repay to Col:
Hatch, whatever Sum it may be necessary for him to pay, as
Charges incurred by raising of the Men.
Voted, that David Jeffries Esq. Town Treasurer be, & he
hereby is empowered & directed to borrow on the Credit of the
next Tax upon Polls & Estates within this Town, a Sum, not
exceeding thirty three hundred Pounds, for the purpose mentioned
in the foregoing Report, for the Repayment of which he is to give
his negotiable Notes.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duely qualified and legally warned, in public
Town Meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall, on Wednesday the 13
day of May Anno Domini 1778.
Prayer was made by the Reverend Mr. Wight.
The Precept & Warrant for calling the Meeting - - - read
Sundry Laws -------------- read
The Town having determined to chuse Seven Persons to repre-
sent them in the Great & General Court or Assembly, to be
held at the Town House in Boston, upon Wednesday the 27th. Day
current — the Inhabitants were accordingly directed to withdraw,
& bring in their Votes for Seven Representatives, & then it was
[179.] Declared by the Selectmen, that no Votes will be received
but such as are unfolded, & that they propose the Poll shall be
closed at 12 O'Clock.
The Votes being brought in for Seven Representatives the
Number of the same was found to be three hundred & forty-
five — & upon sorting them it appeared that the following Persons
were Chose, Viz.
The Honble. John Hancock Esq. ' 33 j.
The Honble. William Phillips Esq. 227.
The Honble. John Pitts Esq. , - - 342.
Oliver Wendell Esq. 337.
Caleb Davis Esq. 334.
Ellis Gray Esq. 329.
John Lowell Esq. -- -221.
The Choice of Representatives being over, & declared by the
Selectmen, the Inhabitants were directed to withdraw & bring in
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1778. 19
their Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting, in order that the
Town may proceed in transacting the other Affairs mentioned in
the Warrant ; accordingly the Inhabitants withdrew, & bro't in
their Votes, & upon sorting them it appeared, that
The Houble. John Hancock Esq.
was chosen.
Adjourned to 3 O'Clock in the Afternoon.
3 O'Clock in the Afternoon, met according to Adjournment.
The Article in the Warrant Viz. "To consider what Regula-
tions are necessary to be made respecting Faneuil Hall Market " —
was read, & after some Debate, it was
Voted, that the Selectmen give Orders that the Doors of the
several Arches in Faneuil Hall Market, be taken off the Hinges,
& that the Market House be kept open & free from Incumbrances,
till the farther Orders of the Town.
[18O.] The Article in the Warrant Viz. " To consider
whether Instructions shall be given to the Representatives that
may be chosen " — was read, & the Question being accordinly put
— Passed in the Negative.
The Committee appointed to consider what is proper to be done
by the Town, on their Voting to furnish the eighty Six Men
ordered to be draughted, as their Proportion of the Continental
Army — Reported the following Draught of a Memorial to the
General Assembly — Viz.
To the Honble. the Council & House of Representatives of the
State of Massachusetts' Bay in General Court assembled.
May it please your Honors.
The Inhabitants of the Town of Boston beg leave to state to
your Honors their Situation with Regard to the Continental Army.
The Quota assigned this Town for the fifteen Battalions for the
State, was one Seventh of the Inhabitants the Return made &
sworn to by the Selectmen was 2852 including 188 Molattoes &
Negroes; since which our Numbers are so decreased, that the
Training Bands & Alarm Lists, by a Return from Col: Hatch
taken last Winter, was only 1423.
We have in the Continental Army 527, Rank & File (all of
those who have Families are now supplied by the Town at the reg-
ulated Price 85 Officers, 106 Artificers, 14 Quarter Masters, &
other Officers in the Continental Department (exclusive of near
300 in the Continental Navy) these we can prove by an exact
Return, now in the Possession of Col: Hatch, and a Number of
others, whose Regiment & Company cannot be ascertained at
present, those together make the Number above [181.] 1000
Men, without the 87 now ordered, or any regard had to Col:
Craft's Regiment, many of which belong to this Town — Besides,
such have been the frequent Draughts from the Militia for short
Terms of Duty, that almost every Man has served Twice.
We trust the Court will not take Advantage of the Omission of
the Place of Abode, & other Requisites in the Return of such Men
belonging to this Town, as are inlisted into the Continental Army,
for this Omission cannot in Justice be charged on this Town ; for,
20 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
the Misting, the mustering, & the returning Officers, are all ap-
pointed by the Court ; in one of those, or in the Designation of
their Duty, must the Error lye ; & we are peculiarly affected, when
we are told, that as the Return was not made according to the
Mode prescribed, the Town is called upon, as delinquent, upon the
Score of Omissions, though a very considerable Creditor upon
that of Justice. — We hoped, & we will still hope, the Honble. Court
will be governed more by the latter, Consideration than the former,
especially as they may remember, that, the Mode now prescribed,
never made its Appearance, till after a great Number of our Men
were mustered, Col: Bromfield made a Return according to the
then Mode, which we suppose was agreable, as far as it went.
We have exerted ourselves to supply the 87 Men now ordered,
altho' we are convinced that we have,done more than our Duty, & we
find the main Difficulty is a Consciousness in the Breast of almost
every Individual, that we are greatly, very greatly oppressed in this
particular, tho' we are determined to a man not to be out done by
any Town in the State, & we trust it will appear, we have more in
proportion in actual Service than any other, notwithstanding the
many Draughts from this Sea Port, by Men of War & Privateers,
without whose Assistance [18£.] We had long before this been
reduced to the most wretched Situation.
We submit these Matters to your Honor, & we pray for such
Redress, as Justice demands, we do not petition for favor, we ask
not the least Alleviation in any necessary proportioned Difficulty,
but we do expect, & have a Right to demand Justice; & when
these Matters are equitably adjusted, if we then are delinquent,
we are ready at all Events to supply the Deficiency, but if we
have a Surplusage we expect to remain Creditors therefor.
The foregoing Draught of a Memorial being read & considered
paragraph by paragraph, the same was accepted by the Town,
& the Selectmen are directed to sign the same, & present it to the
General Court.
Adjourned to Monday the 25th. of Mav, instant 9 O'Clock
A.M.
Monday the 25th. of May, 9 O'Clock, met according to
Adjournment.
The Honbl*. John Hancock Esq. Moderator of this Meeting
having signified to the Town that he was unable to attend — the
Inhabitants were desired to withdraw & bring in their Votes for a
Moderator Pro Temp, the Votes being collected and sorted, it
appeared that
The Honble. Thomas Gushing Esq. was chosen.
The Draught of a Petition to the General Court relative to the
Men raised for the Continental Army, was again read, & after
some Debate, Voted, that the same be recommitted.
On a Motion made the Question was put Whether the Town
will reconsider the Vote passed at the last Meeting not to give
Instructions to their Representatives — Passed in the Affirmative.
[183.] Voted, that Nathaniel Appleton
Joseph Barrel
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1778. 21
Ezekiel Price
Samuel Barret
Col: Thomas Daws
be a Committee to prepare Instructions for the Gentlemen who
represent this Town in the General Assembly — to report the same
at the Adjournment.
Voted, that this Meeting be adjourned to To-morrow 10
O'Clock to meet at the Old Brick Meeting House.
Tuesday May 26th. 10 O'Clock A.M. met according to
Adjournment.
The Committee to whom was recomitted the Draught of a
Memorial to the General Court — Reported, as entered Page 165 —
which Report was accepted, & the Selectmen were directed to
sign the same, & handed to our Representatives, to be by them
presented to the General Assembly.
The Committee appointed to prepare Instructions for our
Representatives, Reported a Draught, which was read, & after
considerable Debate, it was moved, & the Question accordingly
put — That the Matter of Instructions subside, which passed in
the Affirmative.
Voted, that this Meeting be adjourned to Monday next, 4
O'Clock P.M. to meet at Faneuil Hall.
Monday June I1. 1778, 4 O'Clock P.M. Met according to
, Adjournment.
The Honble. Thomas Gushing Esq. Moderator of this Meeting
being absent thro' Sickness.
Jonathan Williams Esq.
was chosen Moderator Pro. Temp, by a Hand Vote.
[184.] On a Motion made,
Voted, that Mr. Ezekiel Price
Mr. Peter Boyer
Mr. Thomas Walley
Samuel Barrett Esq.
Deacon Tim0. Newell
Be a Committee to consider & report, what Grants may be nec-
essary to make the several Schoolmasters for their Support the
present Year.
Voted, that all Matters & Things, which remain unfinished at
this Meeting, be referred over to the Town Meeting on Wednes-
day next for the Choice of two Selectmen
Then the Meeting be dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Inhabitants of the Town of Boston, being
free, & Twenty One Years of age, duely qualified & legally warned,
in public Town Meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall, on Monday
25th. Day of May Anno Domini 1778.
Warrant for Calling the Meeting --- read
The Honble. Thomas Gushing Esq. was chosen Moderator of this
Meeting by a Hand Vote.
22 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
A Motion being made for an Adjournment on Account of the
Small Number of Inhabitants at this Meeting, when Business of
so much Moment, as the accepting or rejecting of the Form of
Government agreed on by the late Convention, was to be trans-
acted — It was previously Voted, that at the Adjournment moved
for, all the Bells be rung for ^ an hour, before the time of Meet-
ing, & that the Constables be desired to go through their several
Wards & desire the Inhabitants to shut up their Shops, that all
qualified might attend the Meeting.
[185.] Voted, that this Meeting be adjourned to ^ past
3 O'Clock in the Afternoon, then to attend at the old Brick Meet-
ing House.
3 O'Clock Afternoon, met according to Adjournment
A Constitution & Form of Government for the State of Mas-
sachusetts Bay, as agreed on by the Convention of said State
February 28th. 1778, to be laid before the several Towns & Plan-
tations, in said State, for their Approbation or Disapprobation, was
distinctly read & duely considered — And the Question being put,
Viz : — Whether the Inhabitants do approve, or disapprove of said
Form of Government, Nine hundred & Sixty eight Persons being
present, & voting on the Question.
On a Motion Voted, that
Mr. John Winthrop
Mr. Joseph Barrel
Perez Morton Esq.
Mr. Ezekiel Price
Mr. Nathaniel Appleton
Be a Committee to draw up Instructions relative to a Form of
Government for this State, to report at the Adjournment.
Voted, that this Meeting be adjourned to Monday next, 3
O'Clock P.M. to meet at Faneuil Hall.
June 1*. 1778, 3 O'Clock P.M. next according to Adjournment.
The Honble. Thomas Gushing Esq. Moderator of this Meeting
being absent, occasioned by Sickness,
Jonathan Williams Esq.
was chosen Moderator Pro Temp, by a Hand Vote.
The Committee appointed to draw up Instructions for our
Representatives, relative to a Constitution or Form of Government
— Reported the following Draught, Viz.
To the Representatives of the Town of Boston — [186.]
Gentlemen,
You are hereby instructed by the Town of Boston to inform
the Honble. General Court, that after mature Deliberation, in a
very full Meeting, consisting of Nine hundred & Sixty eight, we
Voted unanimously, to Reject the Form sent out by the Conven-
tion, & proposed by them for the Government of this State in
future, & to assure them, that a full Conviction of the Impropriety
of this Matter's Originating with the General Court, was the
Reason which induced us, the last Year, to instruct our Repre-
sentatives, on no Terms to consent to any Proposals for this Pur-
BOSTON TOWN EECORDS, 1778. 23
pose; & we are free to declare, the Specimen we now have, in the
Form proposed, has confirmed us fully, even to Demonstration,
that we were right iu our Conjectures of that Honble. Body's being
improper for this Business : — A Convention for this, & ihis alone,
whose Existence is known No Longer than the Constitution is
forming, can have no Prepossessions in their own Favor, while it
is hard for the General Court, upon a Matter of this Kind, to
divest themselves of the Idea of their being Members; & the
probability that they may continue such, may induce them to
form the Government with peculiar Reference to themselves : —
To this we suppose it is owing, that the Legislative & Executive
Branches are so blended, & that nothing appears, but that the
Members of the Court may monopolize to themselves a Variety of
Offices, which we are fully persuaded, the best Form of Govern-
ment will ever keep these Branches intirely distinct, & the Mem-
bers confined to their particular Duties, without Incumbrance.
'Tis needless to particularize the many Objections which we
could offer to the Form — It is defective in its Foundation ; for it's
surely of Importance, that all Forms of Government should be
prefaced by a Bill of Rights ; in this we find no Mention of any :
— But, was it unexceptionable in all its Parts, except that of
Representation, that alone would be [187.] Sufficient with every
one possessed of the least Idea of Justice, or the smallest Knowl-
edge of the Rights of Human Nature, to reject with Disdain, a
Proposal so diametrically opposite to both. — Representation ought
to be conformable to some Rule, either Property or Numbers, or
both; but in the Present no Regard is had to either, and Reason,
Justice, & common Sense, must be tortured to a great Degree, to
accept that Representation, as equal, which may be as Ten or
Twenty to One: "For every incorporated Town, without ascer-
taining the Number of Voters, may send one Member, while no
Town, having any Number under three hundred, shall send more."
If this is equal, if this is just, all the Rules of Arithmetic, which
have been in use since the Formation of Figures, must be done
away ; but until this new Rule of Calculation receives the Stamp
of Authority, we cannot Consent to it; for we are possessed of
that antiquated Notion, that two & two are always equal to four,
& it appears to us absolutely impossible to prove the contrary.
We were, & still are of Opinion, that a time of War is not the
time to form Constitutions ; we feel the ill Consequence of this
Matter, having taken up the time of the General Court, while the
Army was neglected — We wish the present may profit by the
Errors of the last. — Should it be declared, that this Form is
adopted by two thirds of the State, you will be careful that exact
Scrutiny be made, as to the Numbers, & at all Events enter your
solemn Protest against the Glaring Injustice of Representation ; but
should it meet the Fate we hope & expect, of a total Rejection, &
a new one is proposed, you are by no Means -to give your Consent,
but protest against & oppose it in every Stage of its Progress, &
thereby do what is in j-our power, to prevent unnecessary Expences
of public Money.
The present Form of Government we look upon equal to the
24 . CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Exigencies of the Times, & hold ourselves bound to support it
with our Lives & Fortunes.
[188.] At a proper Time your Constituents wish ardently a
new form, & perhaps in a Day of Tranquility, such an One may be
adopted as shall please all good Men, & save us from the Dissen-
tious which we find attending the present Time.
The foregoing Draught of Instructions to our Representatives
having been read & considered, the Question was put — Whether
the same shall be accepted, & given to our Representatives as their
Instructions — Passed in the Affirmative.
On a Motion Voted, that those Instructions be printed in the
News Papers.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duely qualified & legally warned, in public Town
Meeting assembled at Faueuil Hall, on Wednesday the 3d. Day of
June, Anno Domini 1778.
The Precept and Warrant for calling the Meeting read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw & bring in their
Votes for Two Representatives, in the Room of the Honble. Oliver
Wendell & John Pitts Esqr8., elected Counsellors ; & then it was
proposed that the Poll should be closed at 12 O'Clock.
The Votes being bro't in for two Representatives, the Number
of the same was found to be 250 — &- upon sorting them, it
appeared, that
Mr. Joseph Barrel was chosen - 189.
The Votes being bro't in for One Representative, the Number of
tone same was found to be 218 — & upon Sorting them it appeared
that
Thomas Daws Esq. was chosen - 128.
[189.] The Choice of Representatives being over & declared
— by the Selectmen, the Inhabitants were directed to withdraw &
bring in their Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting, in order that
the Town may proceed in transacting the other Affairs mentioned
in the Warrant & those which were referred over at the May
Meeting — accordingly the Inhabitants withdrew, and brought in
their Votes, & upon sorting them it appeared, that
The Honble. James Otis Esq.
was chosen.
Adjourned to 3 O'Clock in the Afternoon.
3 O'Clock P.M. met according to Adjournment
The Town proceeded to the Choice of two Selectmen, and upon
sorting the Votes bro't in, it appeared, that
Mr. Nathan Frazier
was chosen a Selectman for the year ensuing.
The Town again bro't in their Votes for one Selectman & upon
sorting them, it appeared, that
Mr. Ezekiel Price
was chosen a Selectman for the Year ensuing.
BOSTOX TOWN RECORDS, 1778. 25
The Committee appointed to consider and report, what Grants
it may be necessary to make to the several Schoolmasters, for their
Salaries & Support the present year — Reported as on File, & the
Question being put — Whether the same shall be accepted?
Passed in Affirmative
Voted, that the Sum of One hundred & Twenty Pounds be
allowed & paid unto Mr. Samuel Hunt for his Salary, as Master of
the South Grammar School, for the Year ensuing, the same to be
paid him quarterly, as it shall become due, and to commence from
the Expiration of the last Quarter.
Voted, that the additional Sum of One hundred & Eighty
Pounds, for Six Months, commencing the lf. of March last, [19O.]
Be allowed & paid unto Mr. Samuel Hunt, on Account of the
present high Price of Provisions &c.
Voted, that the Sum of One Hundred Pounds be allowed &
paid unto Mr. Samuel Holbrook for his Salary, as Master of the
Writing School in the Common, the Year ensuing, the same to be
paid him quarterly, as it shall become due, & to commence from
the Expiration of the last Quarter.
Voted, that the farther Sum of one hundred pounds for Six
Months, be allowed & paid unto Mr. Samuel Holbrook on Account
of the present high Price of Provisions &c.
Voted, that the Sum of One hundred pounds be allowed & paid
unto Mr. James Tileston for his Salary, as a Master of the North
Writing School, the same to be paid him quarterly as it shall
become due, & to commence from the Expiration of the last
Quarter.
Voted, that the farther Sum of one hundred pounds be allowed
& paid unto Mr. James Tileston, for six Months, on Account of
the present high Price of Provisions &c.
Voted, that the Sum of one hundred pounds be allowed & paid
unto Mr. James Carter, for his Salary, as Master of the writing
School in Queen Street, for the Year ensuing, the same to be paid
him quarterly as it shall become due, & to commence from the
Expiration of the last Quarter.
Voted, that the farther Sum of one hundred pounds for Six
Months, be allowed & paid unto Mr. James Carter, on Account
of the present high Price of Provisions &c.
Voted, that the Sum of Sixty pounds be allowed & paid unto
Mr. William Bently, for his Salary as Usher of the South Gram-
mar School, the Year ensuing, the same to be paid him quarterly
as it shall become due, & to commence from the Expiration of
the last Quarter. Voted, that the farther Sum of eighty pounds,
for Six Months, be allowed & paid unto Mr. William Beutly, on
Account of the present high Price of Provisions &c.
[191.] Voted, that the Sum of one hundred & thirty pounds
be allowed & paid out of the Town Treasury, unto David Jeffries
Esq. for his services, as Treasurer of the Town the Year past, &
for all his Expences in that Office.
Voted, that the Sum of one hundred and eighty pounds, be
allowed & paid out of the Town Treasury unto David Jeffries
Esq. in Consideration of the high Price of Provisions &c.
26 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
The Committee appointed to examine the Accounts of David
Jeffries Esq. Town Treasurer, have attended that Service, &
find the same from March 1775, to March 1778 right cast and
well vouched, in which he charges himself with sundry Rents &
other Incomes of the Town, amounting to £10612 - 9 - 11.
And the said Treasurer discharges himself by Abatements made
the Collectors amounting £967 — 18-8 — by draughts made by
the Selectmen amounting to £4178 - 3 — 3 of which he has paid
£3922-12 - 3 — by Draughts made by the Overseers of the
poor, amounting to £5615 - 6 - If — of which he has paid
£4991 - 10 - If — & also by sundry Sums paid for Interest &c
— amounting to £150 - 3 - 5 — The Debt of Account of Town
Treasurer, in the Treasurers Books amount to Sixteen thousand
two hundred & five Pounds 14 f 5d. £
The Committee have inspected said Draughts in a very particu-
lar manner, & every other Branch of public Charge, amounting
in the whole to above £16205 — 14 — 5^ as by Account of Town
Treasurer in Town Treasurer's Books Ballance where of being five
thousand five hundred and ninety three pounds 4/6£, is carried to
the Debet of a new Account.
Which Report & Account being read, Voted, that the same be,
& hereby is accepted.
[192.] Voted, that the Selectmen be, & they hereby are ap-
pointed to act upon the List of Jurors.
Voted, that the Sum of Thirty three hundred Pounds be raised
by a Tax upon Polls & Estates within this Town, for the Repay-
ment of the Sums borrowed by Subscription for the Bounty Voted
the 6th. of May last, to be given the 86 Men, raised by a late
Order of the General Court, as this Towns Proportion of the Con-
tinental Army, in Addition to the Ten thousand & four thousand
pounds, already Voted for the other Services of the Town the
present Year.
Then the Meeting: was dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duely qualified & legally warned, in public Town
Meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall, on Wednesday the 24th. Day
of June Anno Domini 1778.
Warrant for calling the Meeting read
The Inhabitants bro't in their Votes for a Moderator of this
Meeting, & the same being sorted it appeared, that
Mr. William Davis
was chosen.
The Town took into Consideration the Resolve of the General
Assembly of this State passed June 10th. 1778 — the Selectmen of
each Town in this State, are directed to pay out of the Treasury
of their respective Towns, the Sum of fourteen pounds, to each
Non-Commissioned Officer & Private, that shall be detached &
Mustered, agreable to said Resolve, to serve in the Army, for the
Defence of Rhode Island &c.
BOSTOX TOWN RECORDS, 1778. 27
[193.] Also Six pence p Mile for Mileage to said Men " —
Whereupon
Voted, that David Jeffries Esq. Town Treasurer be, & he hereby
is impowered & directed to borrow on the Credit of the next Tax
upon Polls and Estates within this Town, the Sum of Seven hun-
dred & fifty Pounds for the purpose mentioned in a Resolve of the
General Court passed the 10th. of June 1778, for the Repayment
of which he is to give his negotiable Notes on Interest — Also
Voted, that Mess8. Daniel Bell
Capt Jonathan Stoddard
be a Committee to procure Subscriptions agreable to the foregoing
Vote.
Voted, that the Sum of Seven hundred & fifty pounds be raised
by a Tax upon Polls & Estates within this Town, for the Repay-
ment of the Sums to be borrowed by the Town Treasurer for the
Bount3r & Mileage, allowed by the General Assembly in their Re-
solve, passed the 10th. Day of June Current, to be given this
Town's Proportion of the eighteen hundred Men, ordered to be
raised by Draughts on several Regiments in this State to serve in
the Army for the Defence of Rhode Island &c the same to be
added to the next Assessment
Then the Meeting: was dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duely qualified & legally warned, in public Town
Meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall, on Thursday the 6th. Day of
August A.D. 1778
[194.] Warrant for Calling the Meeting read.
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting, & the same being brought
in and sorted, it appeared, that
The. Honble. John Hancock
was chosen unanimously Moderator of this Meeting, and took his
Seat accordingly.
The Article in the Warrant Viz. " To consider and determine,
what Steps are proper to be taken, with respect to a Number of
Persons, late" Inhabitants of this Metropolis, who have sought &
received Protection from the British King, and, as it is reportd, are
about returning to this Town " — was read & also the Application
to the Selectmen for Calling the Meeting — After very warm De-
bates upon the Subject
It was moved that the Sense of the Town may be taken,
Whether they will now proceed to take any Steps in this Matter —
And the Question being accordingly put — It passed in the Affirm-
ative Unanimously
It was then Voted, unanimously, that it is the Opinion of this
Town, that no one of those Persons, that have left this Town, &
have sought & Received Protection from the British King, can
return to it again, ivithout greatly endangering its Peace & Safety.
Upon a Motion made, it was Voted, that
28 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
The Houble. John Hancock Esq.
Nathaniel Appleton Esq.
Mr. Thomas Walley
Mr. Commissary Devens
Ellis Gray Esq.
Mr. Ezekiel Price
[195.] Mr. William Cooper
Mr. Joseph Henderson
Mr. John Winthrop
Be a Committee to consider and report, at the Adjournment,
what they judge' may be farther necessary to be done, respecting
the Subject-Matter of the Warrant.
On a Motion made, it was Voted, that this Meeting stand ad-
journed to the first Monday in September next, 3 O'Clock P.M.
And the Meeting was accordingly adjourned,
Monday the 7th. of September 3 O. Clock P: M: Met according
to Adjournment
The Committee appointed to consider and Report what may
further done to prevent those Persons that have left the Town and
have sought and received protection from the British King. — Re-
ported, which Report being read and considered, was amended by
the Town, and is as follows, Viz'.
The Committee appointed to consider what may be further done
to prevent these Persons that have left the Town, and have
sought and received protection from the British King, Reported
the following Vote. Viz' .
Voted, that the Representatives of the Town be and they
hereby are Instructed and directed to use their best endeavors in
the Great and General Court at their next Sessions to have such
Laws enacted as may effectually prevent a return, to the Town, or
any part of the State, any Person whatever who has left this
Country when in Distress, and has Saught and received protec-
tion from the King & Government of Britain
[196.] The Question being put, Whether the foregoing Report
shall be excepted — passed in the Affirmative, unanimously also
Voted that the Town Clerk furnish the Gentlemen who Repre-
sent this Town with an Attested Copy of the foregoing Vote.
On a Motion made by a late Speach of the Patribtick Gover-
nour Livingston, relative to the inexpediency of the absent Torys,
being suffered to return to these States, was read
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston, duely qualified and legally warned in publick
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Tuesday the 29th.
Day of September Anno Domini 1778.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read.
The Inhabitants were directed to bring in their Votes for a
Moderator of this Town Meeting and the same having been brought
in and sorted, it appeared that The Honourable John Hancock
Esqr. was chosen Moderator unanimously.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1778. 29
[197.] The Town being informed by General Hancock, that
a Lameness prevented his Accepting the Honor done to him by
the appointment, proceeded to the choice of another Person, and
the Votes being brought in and sorted it appear' d that The
Honble. Thomas Gushing Esqr. was chosen Moderator of this
Meeting unanimously.
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. — To consider of the request
of the Overseers of the Poor, that the Town would take Measures
for the immediate raising a sum of Money in order to procure
Provisions, and other Necessaries of Life, for the present Supply
of the Poor in the Almshouse, and to carry them through the
Winter" — was read and after debate had thereon, it was moved
and Voted, that upon account of the thinness of this Meeting, it
be Adjourned to Wednesday next 10 O'Clock in the Forenoon,
also
Voted that the Bell Ringers be directed by the Selectmen, to
ring the last Bells for the Adjournment of this Meeting half an
Hour before the time of Meeting
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned.
Wednesday September 30th. 1778 — 10 O'Clock Forenoon -
Met according to Adjournment.
The Article in the Warant relative to the request of the Over-
seers, of the Poor, for the Supply of the Alms House, again read
& after considerable debate
[198.] Voted, that a Petition be preferred to the General
Assembly of this State, that a Quantity of Corn now in the
Hands, of the Honble. Board of War, may be disposed of to the
Town, for the use of the State and Town Poor now in the Alms
House ; as also for a Quantity of Wood, if it should appear,
that considerable of that Article has been procured by the Board
of War for the use of the State ; and that the Selectmen be a
committee to prepare and Present said Petition — also —
Whereas it has been represented to this Town by the overseers
of the Poor, that they stand in present and absolute need of a con-
siderable Sum of Money to procure Supplies for the Support of the
Poor in the Alms House this Fall and the ensuing Winter.
Voted, that it be and hereby is earnestly recommended to the
Inhabitants of the Town to pay their Town Taxes to the Collectors
immediately, in order that the Overseers may be furnished with a
sufficient sum of Money for the purpose aforesaid and the Col-
lectors are hereby directed to pay in the Money they may receive
in consequence of this Vote to the Town Treasurer immediately,
and the Town Treasurer is directed to supply the Overseers, of the
Poor with a Sum not exceeding Five Thousand, five hundred
Pounds, accordingly also.
Voted, that the Committee appointed to assist the Town Treas-
urer in borrowing Moneys for the service of the Town be desired
to proceed in said business, till the several Votes of Credit are
Compleated.
[199.] The Article in the Warrant, Viz1. What steps shall
be taken in regard to a late Resolve of the General Assembly of
30 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
this State, directing the Selectmen of this Town to procure four
hundred and Seven Shirts, and the same number of pairs of Shoes
and Stockings for the use of the Continental Army " — was read
— and after some debate had thereon, it was moved, and Voted,
that the further consideration of this Article be referred to the
Adjournment
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. — "To consider the request of
the Assessors, that, an, adequate Allowance may be made them
on Account of the extraordinary duty which now lays upon them,
and in consideration of the high price of the necessaries of Life "
was read, and after considerable debate, it was moved, that the
further consideration thereof be referred to the Adjournment of
this Meeting.
The Article in the Warrant relative to procuring Shoes and
Stockings &c for the Continental Army was again read and con-
sidered, whereupon, it was Voted, the former Vote be reconsid-
ered, for referring the further consideration of this Article to the
Adjournment, and that the Selectmen be and hereby are directed
and impowered to procure the Shirts, Shoes, and Stockings wanted
for the Continental Army, Agreable to a Resolve of the General
Assembly of this State for that purpose.
[2OO.] Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to Wednesday
the 11th. Day of November 10. O. Clock. A: M:
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned.
Wednesday the 11th. Day of November 10. O. Clock Forenoon
— Met according to Adjournment.
The Article in the Warrant — Viz'. — "To consider of the
request of the Overseers of the Poor, that the Town would take
measures for the immediate raising a Sum of Money in Order to
procure Provisions, and other Necessaries of Life, for the present
supply of the Poor in the Alms House, and to carry them through
the Winter " — was read —
The Collectors of Taxes were then called upon, to acquaint the
Town, with the success they had met with in Collecting Money,
from their respective Wards.
The Collectors having Reported, agreeable to requirement ; the
Town were thereby led to apprehend, that the Overseers of the
Poor, were like soon to receive sufficient Moneys for the present
supply of the Alms House — whereupon it was Voted, that the
further consideration of that Article in the Warrant respecting
the Alms House was become needless.
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. — To consider the request
of the Assessors, that an adequate Allowance may be made them
on Account [2O1.] of the extraordinary Duty which now lays
upon them, and in consideration of the High price of the neces-
saries of Life" — was again read, and considered — Whereupon
it was moved and Voted, that the further consideration of this
Matter be referred over to the Adjournment of this Meeting —
also
Voted, that Mr. Ezekiel Price
Mr. Peter Boyer
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1778. 31
Mr. Thomas Walley
Samuel Barret Esqr.
Mr. Timothy Newell
A Committee appointed at a former Meeting " to consider and
Report what grants may be necessary to make the several School
Masters for their Support the present year," — be desir'd to take
the request of the Assessors into consideration, and Report what
they Judge proper to be done thereon at the Adjournment of this
Meeting
It was then moved, and Voted that this Meeting be Adjourned
to Tuesday the 17th. Day of November 10. O'Clock Forenoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Tuesday the 17th. Day of November 10. OClock Forenoon —
Met according to Adjournment
The Honble. Thomas Gushing Esqr. [2O2.] Moderator of this
Meeting, having Signified that he was unable to attend, by reason
of Sickness Votes, by Order of the Selectmen were brought in for
a Moderator Pro Tern0, and upon sorting them it appeared that
The Horible. John Hancock Esqr. was chosen
The Committee appointed, " to consider what Grants may be
necessary to make the several Schoolmasters, for their support the
present year" — -Reported as follows Viz*.
That a further additional allowance on Account of the present
high price of Provisions &c. be made — Viz'.
To Mr. Samuel Hunt - - - of £250 — for ye. other 6 Months
To Mr. Samuel Holbrook - - of 140 — for - - d°. - -
To Mr. James Carter - - - of 140— for - - d°. - -
To Mr. James Tileston - - of 140 — for - - d°. - -
To Mr. James Bently Usher to Mr. Hunt of £125-- d°. - -
and for omission the last 6 Months, — - 10 £135
The Committee appointed "• to consider of an adequate Allow-
ance to the Assessors on Account of their extraordinary duty and
in consideration of the High price of the Necessaries of Life —
having attended the Assessors, examined their Business the
present Year; Viued their method of doing the same, with the
great number of Books, and Papers, they have wrote and gone
through for that Purpose ; do find that by means of the repealed
Assessments, they have been obliged to make, and the regular
Method they have pursued [2O3.] In making those Assess-
ments, and the General Valuation of the Ratable Estates, of the
Inhabitants agreeable to a late Law of this State ; great Labour
and much time have been Spent therein ; and that their whole
number might be employ'd in the Service.
We are therefor of Opinion That they ought to receive thirty
Shillings per Day, each, during the time of their being employed
in the Business of their Office, to commence from the Settlement
of their last Account.
The foregoing Report having been read, and duly considered —
the Question was put — Whether the same shall be accented —
Passed in the Affermative
The Report of the Committee to consider proper allowances to
32 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
the Schoolmasters, having been duly considered, the Question was
put — Whether the same shall be accepted — Passed in the Affer-
mative
A Motion was made and passed that this Meeting be dissolved
— And the Meeting was accordingly dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in Publick Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall, on Tuesday the 17th. Day of
November Anno Domini 1778. 11. O. Clock. Forenoon
[2O4.] Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
The Votes for a Moderator, of this Meeting having been brought
in and sorted, it appeard, that
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr. was chosen.
The Warrant for calling the Meeting-" to make enquirey why
some obnoxious Persons that have returned are permitted to
reside here contrary to a Law of this State ; and to receive from
the Committee of Correspondence an account of their proceeding
in the execution of said Laws and to adopt some spirited Resolves,
whereby the Town may further testify to the World their deter-
mination that those sworn Enemies to our rights and Liberties,
who have fled their Country and engaged as volunteers, in the
cause of Tyranny and 'shall never return to enjoy within the Walls
of liberty and independence " — was again read.
The Committee of Correspondence &c being called upon for an
Account of their proceedings reported see particulars as entered
at large in the fair Quarto Minnet Book of Town Meeting trans-
acted from Page 110 to 125
On a Motion made Voted, that
Mr. Thomas W alley
Caleb Davis Esqr.
Perez Morton Esqr.
be a Committee to wait upon the Board of War, and to request
their Reason for Suspending the opperation of the [2O5,] Law,
so far as it respects the sending Mr. Johonnot out of this State
The Meeting was then Adjourned to three O'Clock P: M:
Three O'Clock Afternoon, met according to Adjournment.
The Committee appointed in the Forenoon, Reported that they
]iad waited on the Board of War, who were pleased to hand
them an order to be laid before the Town, a Resolve of Council
and the Board of Wars, replys, and a second Resolve of Council,
which are as follows Viz'.
State of Massachusetts Bay Council Chamber October 16.
1778.
Whereas it appears to this Board, that Francis Johonnot's case,
now confined in the Common Goal in Boston, as appears included
in the exclusion Act, passed the last Session of the General
Court, is attended with sundry circumstances peculiarly favorable
to him, And such as would have a great tendency to induce the
Legislative Authority of this State to order his Liberation from
Prison and exemption from banishment : therefore
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1778. 33
Order that it be and hereby is recommended to the Board of
War, not to send off Francis Johonnott who is now confined
in Goal, in consequence of a Law that passed the last Session
of the General Court, agreable [2O6.] To the direction of
said Law, untill he can have opportunity to lay the State x>f
his case before the General Court, and obtain their determination
thereon —
True Copy
Att8. JOHN AVERT Dep^ Secy.
To the Honble. the Council —
We the underwritten, Members of the Board of War, have
received your Honours, recommendation, respecting Francis Jo-
honnot now confined in Boston Goal on the exclusion Act, on
which we beg leave to observe — that however favourable
any circumstances may appear in that Gentlemans Case, they
apprehend the Law the common rule of all our conduct, has
nothing discretionary with us, therefore to Suspend the opperation
of so positive a State, on a recommendation only, we confess we
are awfully afraid
Samuel P. Savage
John Brown
War Office October Thomas Walker
27. 1 778. Eleazer Johnson
Isaac Phillips
State of the Massachusetts Bay
Council Chamber October 28th. 1778.
On the Petition of Francis Johonnot
Whereas. Mr. Francis Johonnott has lately been confined to the
common Goal in Boston as a Person included in the Act intitled.
" An Act to prevent the return to this State of certain Persons
[2O7.] Therein named, and others, who have left the State, or
other of the United States, and Joined the Enemies thereof"
And in persuance of said Act, is to be transported by the Board
of War, to some port or place, within the Dominions or in the
possession of the Forces of the King of Great Britain ; and
whereas it appears to this Board, that the case of said Francis
Johonott is attended with many circumstances peculiarly favour-
able to him, and which might induce the Legislative Authority of
this State (if they were convened) to liberate him from Goal, and
exempt him from banishment ; and his conduct during his Ab-
sence, and since he fled from Great Britain has been such as that
in case he should be sent out of this State, as is by said Act
directed, he would be exposed to immediate distraction, liable to
be apprehended as a Traitor to the King of Great Britain, arid to
suffer the punishment Persons of such a character are by their
laws exposed to : the sending him off therefore under such circum-
stances would be looked upon by every considerate and Candid
Man as a Species of cruelty, unworthy of Americans : therefore
Ordered, That the Prayer of this Petition be so far granted, the
Board of War be and hereby are directed and required, to sus-
pending sending of the said Francis Johonnot, in pursuance of the
Act aforesaid untill he can have an Opportunity to lay the State
34 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
of case before the General Court, and obtain their determination
thereon
True Copy
Att8. JOHN AVERY Depy. Sec7.
[2O8.] On a Motion made — Voted, that
Caleb Davis Esqr.
William Cooper
Mr. Thomas Walley
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Mr. Harbottle Dorr
Dr. Nathaniel Noyes
Col°. Edward Proctor
be a Committee to consider at large the Subject matter of the
Notification, for the Meeting, and to Report at the Adjournment,
what they shall Judge necessary for the Town to do thereon.
It was then moved, that there might be an Adjournment to
Monday next 3. O. Clock Afternoon ; And the Meeting was
accordingly Adjourned
Monday the 23d, of November 3 O'Clock P: M: Met according
to Adjournment
The Committee appointed to consider at large the subject Mat-
ter of the Notification and Reported the following Resolves &c
which with some amendments, were passed by a very great
majority. Viz1.
The Town having examined ^nto the Case and Circumstances
of Cap*. Samuel Pepper, and Mr. Francis Johoiinot, came into the
following Resolves. Yrizl.
[2O9.] Resolved, that it appears to this Town that the
Board of War have not proceeded with Mr. Francis Johouuot, as is
injourned them by the late Law of this State, having suspended
the Operation of said Law so far as it respects the said Johonnot,
untill the next Meeting of the General Court, by the order and
requirement of the Houble. Council of this State ; for reasons set
forth in said Order
Resolved, as the Sense of this Town that the Oath of Fidelity,
being administred to Cap'. Samuel Pepper by Mr. Justice Green-
leaf, is indirect violation of a law of this State, prescribing the
form of said Oath, and said Pepper still remaining among us, is
dangerous to the peace and Safety of this and the United States
Whereas this Town have divers times testified their indignation
at those Practices, who have imbrued their hands in the Blood of
their fellow Countrymen, and their determined resolution to do
all in their Power to prevent their return, and at a late full Meet-
ing of the Inhabitants, solemnly Voted. — "That it is the opinion
of the Town, that no one of those Persons who have left this
Town and have sought and received protection from the British
King, can return to it again without greatly endangering its peace
and safety, ' And the Gentlemen who Represent this Town in
General Assembly, having agreeable to their Instruction, Moved
for, and obtained a Law to be enacted, prohibiting a return to
this Town, or any part of this State, any such Persons whatso-
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1778. 35
ever ; and it appearing [31O.] To this Town, that said Law and
others, in force are well calculated to preserve the Peace and
Safety of this and the United States at a time of common danger,
provided the same are carried into execution
Resolved, That the Inhabitants of this Town will exert them-
selves to the utmost in Supporting the Civil Magistrate in the
execution of this Law, that those, professed Enemies to our Rights
and Liberties, the first fomenters of our present Troubles, who
have left this Country and aided the British Tyrant in his worse
than Savage measures, to deprive Americans of ever thing that
ought to be held dear and sacred by any People, may not return
and enjoy in common, the fruits of what our immortal Patriots,
have toil'd and bled to procure us, and in some future time to be
again the base and cursed Instruments of British Seducers, in in-
volving a happy People in confusion and bloodshed, in order to
realise the reward, and private advantages held out to such
Traitors by the Enemies of America —
And it is further Resolved, That our Representatives be and
they are hereby are Instructed, to use Their influence in the Gen-
eral Assembly, that the Laws now in being, relative to our
implacable Enemies be not only preserved in their full force and
vigor, but strengthened if there should be occasion ; this Town
being of opinion, that no relaxation, can at this time be permitted
without great hazard, not only to our peace but to the glorious
Cause in which America is engaged
[311.] The Committee of Correspondence Inspection and
Safety, having agreeable to requirement Reported to the Town their
proceedings in the execution of the late Law of this State prohib-
iting the return of inimical Persons ; and it appearing to the Town
that they have diligently and faithfully performed the duties
enjoined them by the Laws of this State
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be and hereby are given
them therefore ; and that they be desired to proceed with vigilance
and activity in the further discharge of the Duties of their Important
trust ; the Town being determined to afford them their countenance
and support, while they continue to make the Laws of this State,
the rule of their Conduct.
On a Motion made and Voted, That the sum of Three hundred
and fifty Pounds be added to Mr. Hunts Salary for the Year end-
ing the first of March next. Nine hundred pounds in considera-
tion of the high price of the necessaries of Life —
On a Motion made, Voted, that the Sum of One hundred
seventy five Pounds be granted to Mr. William Bently, Usher to
the South Grammar School, in addition to the Salary already
granted him ending the first of March next, in consideration of
the high price of Necessaries, which will make one half the Sum
which has been granted Mr. Hunt
[313.] On a Motion, Voted, That all the proceedings of this
Meeting be Published.
It was then moved, that this Meeting be dissolved
And it was accordingly dissolved
36 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in publick Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 13th. Day
of January Anno Domini 1779. 10. OClock Forenoon
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
The Inhabitants were directed to bring their Votes for a Moder-
ator of this Meeting and the same having been brought in and
sorted, it appeared, that
John Brown Esqr.
was chosen unanimously.
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. " To consider what measures
are proper to be taken by the Town, respecting the present
scarcit}7 of Bread Corn and to prevent the further monopoly
and exorbitant prices of the Necessaries of Life " — was read —
and after some consideration thereon — On a Motion made Voted,
that the Bakers in the Town be desired to give their Attendance
and inform the Town [213.] of the quantity of Flour and Grain,,
which they, and others, may now have by them —
Several of the Town Baker's, attend'd accordingly, and in-
formed of what they knew relative to the quantity of Flour and
Grain, now in the hands of the Bakers &c
On a Motion made Voted, that a Committee of thirty Six
Persons, three for each Ward, be now chosen, to make thorough
inquiry in their respective Wards as to the quantity of Flour and
the other Necessaries of Life, now in Town — and to Report in
writing at the Adjournment —
Voted the following Persons be and hereby are appointed a
Committee for the Purpose aforesaid — Viz1. Ward
Cap1. William Brown N°. 1
Mr. John Sigorney
Cap1. Silas Atkins
Mess". John Lambert N°. 2
Nathaniel Barber
Richard Flood
Cap'. John Ballard N°. 3
Cap1. Elias Parkman
James Sherman
Col°. Edward Proctor N°. 4
Francis Shaw Esqr.
Edward Edes
[214.] Cap'. William Craft N°. 5
Mr. Daniel Parker
Cap1. William Bell
Cap'. John Hinckley
Mr. Joseph Hall N°. 6
Mr. Benjamin Sumner
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 37
Mr. Benjamin Edes
Mr. Robert Wier N°. 7
Mr. Joseph Levering
Mr. William Scollay
Cap'. Winthrop Gray N°. 8
Col°. Jonathan Pollard
Mr. Adam Colson
Mr. Thomas Walley N°. 9
Mr. Joseph Shed
Major Joseph Webb
Deacon Robert Gardner N°. 10
Mr. William McNiel
Mr. Samuel Ruggles
Mr. Thomas Tileston N°. 11
Mr. John McLane
Deacon Gibbins Sharp
Cap'. Robert Davis N°. 12
Mr. Ebenezer Dorr
[215.] On a Motion made — Voted, that a Committee of
Nine Persons be appointed to take up the several matters, in the
Warrant for calling the Meeting, and to report at Large what
Measures they apprehend it will be expedient for the Town to
adopt, in order to relieve the Inhabitants under their great and
growing difficulties
Voted, that John Brown Esqr.
John Rowe Esqr.
William Cooper
Samuel Barret Esqr.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Mr. William Foster
Cap'. Amasa Davis
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
Mr. Nathaniel Noyes
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
On a Motion made Voted, that the several Wharfingers be
desired to attend the foregoing Committee, and acquaint them
with the present quantity of Wood on their respective Wharfs
Voted, that the Meeting be Adjourned to Fryday next 10.
O'Clock Forenoon and the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned.
Fryday the 15th. of January 10. O'Clock Forenoon, met accord-
ing to Adjournment.
The Committee of thirty Six appointed to make inquery in the
several Wards, as to the quantity of Flour and other Articles,
made Report in Writing [216.] Of the quantities of Flour and
other necessaries of Life, which upon enquiry were found in the
respective Wards
38 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
The Committee of Nine made a Report as follows — Viz1.
The Committee appointed to take up the Several Matters
contained in the Warrant, beg leave to Report, in part
That they have conversed with the several Wood Wharfingers,
and find that the Wood now on hand is sold to the Continent
and State ; that the Coasters now demand twenty Six dollars
for Wood, and that considering the high price of Hay &c. they
cannot deliver their Wood under thirty six Dollars, but to prevent
any further rise of that Article, for the present they have
engaged to supply the Inhabitants with two hundred and fifty
Cord at thirty Six Dollars in small Quantities not exceeding Six
feet —
Your Committee by conferring with the Chairman of the
Committee of Enquirey are informed that the present supply of
Flour and Bread Corn is very scanty, therefore are of opinion
that some measures must be adopted immediately to purchase a
quantity of Flour and Grain for which purpose they recomend
to the Town to appoint a Committee to Collect Subscriptions for
Money to be advanced immediately and put into some trusty hands,
to buy up a quantity of Grain and Flour, and [217.] have The
same housed in the Granary, and sold to the Inhabitants at the
discretion of the Selectmen or a Committee for that purpose, at the
cost and charges, and as it may be necessary for the purchasers
to go into the States of Connecticut and New York, your Commit-
tee recomend, that an application be made immediately to the
General Assembly requesting a recommendation to those States for
permission to transport the same into this State.
As there is now depending in the General Court a Bill to prevent
forestalling and monopoly, your Committee have suspended the
consideration of that Article till they can obtain further informa-
tion respecting said Bill, but recomend it to the Inhabitants, not'
to purchase any more of the Necessaries of Life, then they have
immediate occasion for in their Families ; and that the present
Possessors of Sugar, Molasses, Grain, Flour, Tea, Coffee, Choco-
lat and Rice, be desired to retail the Same in small quantities
untill the Town shall take further order thereon
The foregoing Report having been considered, paragraph by
paragraph, the question was put — whether the same shall be
accepted — pass'd in the aff ermative
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be directed and impowered
to -receive all the Moneys which shall be borrowed by the Com-
mittee to be appointed to Collect Subscriptions, agreeable to the
Report of the foregoing Committee also
[218.] Voted, that the Town Treasurer be and he hereby is
directed artd impowered to give his negotiable Notes carrying
Interest, and payable from three to Six Months, to such Persons
as shall lend the Town Moneys for the purpose of purchasing
Flour. &c agreeable to the foregoing Report
On a Motion made. Voted, that the Committee to be chosen for
the purpose of borrowing Moneys and purchasing Flour, and con-
sist of Twelve Persons to be chosen by Ballot, in the Afternoon
Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourn'd to 3. O. Clock. P: M:
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 39
3 0. Clock P. M. Met according to Adjournment
The Votes for a Committee of Twelve Persons, for the Purpose
of borrowing Moneys purchasing Flour &c were brought in, and
being sorted, it appeared, that
John Rowe Esqr.
Mr. John White
Mr. William Bant
Mr. Gibbius Sharp excused
Samuel Barret Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Wally
Mr. Samuel Hendly Esqr.
Mr. Isaac Pierce excused
Mr. John Lucas
Mr. Thomas Russell
[219.] Cap1. Amasa Davis
Mr. Daniel Hubbard
were chosen.
Voted that this Meeting be Adjourned to the 16th. Day of Jan-
uary Ins', and the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Saturday 16th. January. 10. O: Clock Forenoon — met according
to Adjournment
On a Motion made and carried the Inhabitants were directed to
withdraw and bring in their Votes for six Persons in addition to
the Committee for borrowing Money and purchasing Flour &° —
the Votes being brought in and sorted, it appeared that
Mr. John Sweetser
Mr. William Foster
Major Joseph Webb
Cap*. Gustavus Fellows
Mr. Samuel Breck
Mr. Henderson Inches
were chosen
The following Memorial and Address to Major General Gates,
was laid before the Town, agreeable to a Motion made for that
Purpose at the last Meeting — Viz1. —
To the Honble. Horatio Gates Esqr. Major General and Com-
mander of the Army of the United States in the Eastern Depart-
ment—
The Memorial and Address of the Inhabitants of the Town of
Boston
[22O.] The Inhabitants of the Town of Boston beg leave to
represent to you Sir, that from their distresses occasioned by the
present scarcity of Flour and Bread Corn, owing in a great Meas-
ure to the Embargo laid thereon in the Southern States, a large
S«m of Money has been subscribed for procuring a quantit}-
thereof, for the more immediate relief of the Poor ; and not know-
ing but that some Flour might be spared from the Continental
Stores, which have been augmented from the Magazines of this
State ; we pray you Sir, that you would be plcasejd either to give
directions or recommend to the Commissary General of Supplies,
the favouring us with the loan of such a quantity thereof, to be
40 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
replac'd in a short Time, as you shall Judge may be spared
without prejudice to the Publick Service, to which we are sensible
every private or partial Interest ought to give place
The Town take this opportunity in Publick Town Meeting
Assembled, to express their high satisfaction in seeing this
Military . Department filled by a Gentleman who thr°. the favour-
er Providence has acquired such uncommon Glory in the Field, and
whose Services has been so happily important to the General In-
terest of the United States and particularly to the present security
of the Northern Quarter, and in whom as well as in your worthy
Predecessor in this Department, we experience the amiable
qualities of a good Citizen, combined with the accomplishments of
the Soldier ; from whence we derive the most pleasing Assurances
that nothing [221.] on your part will be ommitted, which may
conduce to the relief, the peace and good order, as well as the
defence of the Town
Voted, unanimously, the foregoing Memorial and Address, be
attested by the Town Clerk, and that
John Brown Esqr. the Moderator of this Meeting together with
John Scollay Esqr. Samuel Austin Esqr. Jonathan Williams Esqr.
Mr. Harbottle Dorr. Cap'. Gustavus Fellows, Cap'. John Preston
Deacon Thomas Grenough, Mr. Nathan Frazier and Ezekiel Price
Esqr. Selectmen and William Cooper Town Clerk be a Committee
to present the same in behalf of the Town
On a Motion made, that the Inhabitants might be directed to
bring in their Votes for four Persons, to be added to the Com-
mittee for borrowing Moneys and purchasing Flour &c — the
Votes for four Persons were accordingly brought in and sorted
when it appeared, that
Isaac Smith Esqr.
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
James Bowdoin Junr. Esqr.
Mr. John Barret Jur.
were chosen
On a Motion, Voted, that a Committee be appointed, for the
special business of making enquirey, with respect to some Persons,
who lost to the feelings of Humanity are at this Season of dis-
tress, endeavouring to enrich their little Selves by Monopolizing
and forestalling the Necessaries of Life and that they Report at
the Adjournment such Facts as they can ascertain
[222.] Voted, that Cap1. John Ballard
Mr. John Kennedy
Mr. Adam Colson
Mr. Moses Grant
Mr. Thomas Uran
Mr. Joseph Lovering
Mr. Ebenezer Edes
be and hereby are appointed a Committee for the purpose afore-
said
On a Motion. Voted, that the Committee of Nine, chosen to
consider what is proper to be done &c. be directed to prepare a
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 41
Vote defining the power and duty of the Committee appointed to
borrow Money and purchase Flour &c — also
Voted, that said Committee of Nineteen be desired to proceed
immediately in procuring Subscriptions, and purchasing such
Articles as they may Judge for the Interest of the Town
Adjourne'd to Wednesday next 10. O: Clock Forenoon — Met
according to Adjournment
The Committee of( Nine, appointed to consider and Report the
Steps proper to be taken under the present alarming — scarcity of
Bread Corn and to prevent the further progress of Monopoly and
Forestalling having Reported in part, and the Town having
accepted said partial, Report, and in consequence thereof chosen a
Committee of Nineteen to receive Subscriptions of Monies to be paid
into the hands, of [223.] The Town Treasurer, for the Purpose of
purchasing Hour and Grain — and the Town havhig referred to
this Committee to consider of proper Powers and Instructions to
be given to the Committee aforesaid, in order to their adopting
the line of Conduct intended by the Town in their appointment ;
having attended that service beg leave to Report the following
Commission
To the Committee for receiving Subscriptions, and purchasing
Flour and Grain &c —
Gentlemen
Taking into our Serious consideration the present very partial
Supply of Flour, Grain, and other Necessaries of Life, and deeply
affected with the Melancholy prospect of these Misiries, which
threaten us Unless, some speedy and effectual Measures are
Adopted to ward them off, The Inhabitants of the Town of Boston,
in legal Town Meeting Assembled, reposing special Confidence iu
your Integrity, Prudence, and Humanity, have made chose of you
as their Committee for the sole purpose of making as early Provi-
sion as possible of the aforementioned Articles of Subsistence, and
selling the same to the Inhabitants
But in order to facilitate your Proceedings in said concern, and
to prevent the Artifices of Monopolizers and forestallers from
counteracting your salutary purposes and Measures, we have
thought proper to give and do hereby give you the following
Powers and Instructions, Viz1.
[224.] You are in the first place impowered and directed to
open a Subscription for raising by Loan a Sum of Money adequate
to the design ; the same to be paid into the hands of the Town
Treasurer, who is already impowered, and is hereby ordered to give
his Recepts to the Subscribers for the same, payable with Interest
in Six Months or a shorter term, not less than three Months, as
may be by them limitted.
And you are further impowered to draw upon said Treasurer
for any Sum or Sums so deposited with him, who is ordered to pay
the same on demand ; which sum or Suras, you are to lay out by
your selves or agents in Flour and Grain, as you shall Judge most
conducive to the Relief of the Inhabitants ; under their present
or future distresses, said Flour and Grain to be brought as soon as
possible into the Town, and deposited in the Granary or such
42 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
other Store, as you shall Judge most convenient under the
care and Conduct of Such Person, or Persons, as you shall
appoint — said Flour and Grain to be delivered out to the Inhab-
itants, and to them only under your directions at the Cost and
Charges —
The Money arising from the Sale thereof you are to deposit
again in the hand of the Treasurer, aforesaid, Subject to your
occasional drafts, who is hereby ordered to receive and pay the
Same as aforesaid. — and you are impower'd and directed to lay
said Moneys, out and repay them to the Treasurer, as they shall
arise from [225.] The Sale, in the manner prescribed, as often
as the time limitted for the repayment of them to the Subscribers
will admit, and the Necessities of the Inhabitants shall in your
Judgement require —
The Charge1 of Agents Commissaries Storekeepers and Clerks,
of Storage, Expresses, Transportation, and other necessary costs
attending your purchases and Sales, are to be included in the
price at which you shall direct the Provisions aforesaid to be
sold.
You are further directed to keep proper Records of your pro-
ceedings under this Commission, and fair accounts of the Monies
received and paid, and of the Provisions, purchased and delivered,
and to lay the same before the Town, when called for.
And as occasion may require the interposition and assistance of
the General Assembly, of tins State, you are impowered and
direct'd to make such application for such purposes as to you may
seem proper and necessary — And finally to do all such matters
and things and in such sort respecting the Premisses and the
mode and Medium of purchases not heretofore dischribed and
limitted, as your discretion, or that of any Seven of you which
shall be a Quorum for all purposes, shall dictate
Your Committee further Report that [226.] They have been
favioured with a true Copy of the Bill now pending in the Great
and General Court for preventing Monopolies, Forestalling &c.
and flatter themselves, that if compleated according to its design
and intended improvements it will answer the salutary purposes of
such a Bill and render any proceedings, of this Town, except such
as may be had in legal Acts of its Execution when promulgated
unnecessary, and they therefor recomend a Recommitment of that
Article of the Warrant calling this Meeting on which this Clause
of their Report is grouuded untill the Adjournment
The foregoing Report having been duly considered, it was
Voted, that the same be accepted, and that a fair Copy of the
Commission to the Committee, for borrowing and purchasing at-
tested by the Town Clerk be delivered the Chairman of said Com-
mittee
The Committee appointed to present the Memorial and Address
of this Town to the Honble. Horatio Gates Esqr. Major General
and Commander of the Army of the United States in the Eastern
Department — Reported that they had presented said Memorial
and Address, and received the following Reply which they now
lay before the Town Viz1.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 43
Gentlemen
The Provision which has been made for the Relief
of the Poor of Boston is a testimoney [227.] That watchfull
Beneficence, which has characterised its Inhabitants — To be de-
prived of the Measures of Immediately forwarding the execution
of their generious Designs, is a most painfull Situation, which
affects me to a Degree, which their own Feelings will make them
Conceive better than I can describe ; but the present State of the
publick Stores disables me from indulging the Pleasure, which the
full gratification of their Request would afford me — I shall do
every thing in my Power, as soon as the expected Supplies arrives,
to Wince [sic ? evince] the Sincerity of this Declaration.
The Politeness with which in Town Meeting they have expressed
their Satisfaction in seeing me at the Head of the Eastern De-
partment, is to me an additional Motive for not being remiss in
my Attention to prove my Self, on all Occasions a Citizen, as well
as a Soldier.
Providence having been pleased to f aviour that Part of the Army
which the Command of which I was interested, against our En-
emies, I never can forget how much I am indebted to the Intripid-
ity and Fortitude of the Officers and Soldiers of this State, for
the little Reputation I may have acquired. Gratitude and Human-
ity will urge me to neglect no Opportunity for relieving their dis-
tressed Bretheren, whenever it shall be compatible, with the good
of the Service
HORATIO GATES
[228.] The Committee of Nineteen for borrowing Moneys,
purchasing Flour &c. having acquainted the Town that they were
like to meet with difficulties, on account of the late Resolve of
Congress respecting certain Emissions, of Money whereupon
agreeable to a Motion
Voted, that the consideration of this Matter be referred to the
Adjournment of this Meeting, and that said Committee be desired
to proceed in procuring Subscriptions, and to report the State
thereof at the Adjournment.
On a Motion, Voted, the North Doors and Windows of the
Market, be put up by the Selectmen.
On a Motion made Voted, that the Committee who presented
the Towns Memorial and Address to General Gates, be desired to
waite upon him and appoligize for the purporting [s/c ? postponing]
the Printing said Address, and the Generals Reply, for a short
time, that our Enemies might [? not] take the advantage of being
acquainted with our present Necessities.
Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to Wednesday Next the
27 Instant. 10. O. Clock Forenoon
Wednesday Jany. 27. 10. O. Clock A: M: Met according to
Adjournment
The Committee of Nine appointed to consider of the proper
Steps to be taken, relative to the Present scarcity of Flour &c.
acquainted the Inhabitants, that the Bill relative, to Monopolizers,
and [229.] Fores tallers, was still pending in the General As-
44 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
sembly, which prevents their making Report on Matter at this
Adjournment but they hoped they might be able to do it ut the
next Adjournment
The Committee of Nineteen appointed to borrow Moneys, and
purchase Flour, &c Reported Verbeally — That they had constantly
attended to the business of their appointment ; and have already
made sum Contracts for Flour in the Country, and are like soon
to have a Supply for the Inhabitants — that they had received such
assistance from General Gates as will greatly facilitate the entra-
ducing into this State the Flour wanted — that they had already
procured, Subscriptions for about Twenty thousand Pounds, Cur-
rent Monies, which is to be paid immediately
The Committee of Seven appointed to make enquirey relative —
to Monopolizers, and — Acquaint the Town that they were not
able to make Report at this Adjournment, agi'eeable to the Injunc-
tions of the Town, though they have carefully attended to the
buisiness assigned them, but expect they shall be ready to make
Report at the Next Meeting
On a Motion made, Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to
Tuesday next the 2d. of February 10. OClock Forenoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned.
February 2d. Tuesday 10. O. Clock Forenoon Met according to
Adjournment
[23O.] The Committee of Nine appointed to consider of the
proper Steps to be taken relative to the present scarciety of Flour
&c Reported — That amendments had been made in the Monopoly
Bill now pending in the General Assembly ; but as it was still
under the Revision of the Court, they were not now able to give
their Sentiments thereon to the Town Meeting
The Committee of Nineteen appointed for the purpose of bor-
rowing Moneys by Subscription and purchasing Flour &c ac-
quainted the Town that they were now only able to inform hem
that a Person had been already dispatched to the Northward to
secure some Flour, in that quarter
The Committee of seven appointed, to Enquire into the Con-
duct of Forestallers Engrossers and Monopolizers, and to ascer-
tain Facts — Reported in part
That on or about the fourteenth of January last, Matthew Fair-
service purchased a quantity of Rum and Sugar at Salem and
Marblehead that he gave forty Pounds for the Sugar p Hundred,
and thirteen Dollars p Gallon for the Rum
That about the same time John Fairservice purchased a large
quantity of Sugar, for which he says he gave £45. — and £47.
10/ p hundred, and sold them for £58. — p hundred which gave
him an extravagant Profit of £10: 10/ and £13. — p hundr'd ;
which obliges the Poor Consumer to pay a still [231.] Greater
price to the Retailer, by means of which engrossing your Com-
mittee look upon the Town greatly injured
That one Sampson Reed a Stranger is suspected of Engrossing
and Forestalling the Necessaries of Life — that iti a particular
Manner he has monopolized a great quantity of Glass, for a Con-
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 45
siderable quantity of which he did not give £30. — p Box and
sold it for £100 — p Box — that he has had twenty four Boxes of
Window Glass in halves, some of which he has sold for ten Shil-
lings a Square, to the great determent of the Community
That your Committee are seeking proof against Sundry others,
and shall be ready to Report at an Adjournment or some future
Meeting
JOHN BALLARD
The foregoing Report having been read and Considered, it was
Voted, that the same be accepted, and that the»said Committee of
Seven be desired to proceed in the Business assigned them by the
Town and that they do Report at the next Meeting what Steps
they may Judge it will be best for the Town to take with such
Persons as are found guilty of Monopolizing &c. on a Motion,
Voted that all matters and things which remaine unfinished at this
Meeting be referred over to the next Town Meeting, then to be
acted upon
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duely qualified and legally Warned,
in Publick Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Fryday
the 19th Day of February Anno Domini 1779 — 3. O'Clock P.M.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes, for a Moderator of this Meeting, and the same being
brought and sorted, it Appear'd that
John Brown Esqr
was chosen unanimously
The Committee of Seven appointed to make enquirey relative to
Fore Stallers and Monopolizers — Report further — That Two of
the Committee Viz1. Lovering and Edes, hearing that Mr. William
Foster, had purchased, among other Articles, eight Barrels of
Flour for the benefit of the Town, as he said at £15 — p and
that after the Teamster had sold it to him, the said Teamster, after-
wards, sold it again to a Person not an Inhabitant of this Town,
for twenty two Pounds p hundred ; the above Lovering, and Edes,
enquiring into the case found it to be true whereupon they ad-
vised and directed the Teamster; to carry it from along side the
Vessel, on board of which it was going to Mr. Fosters, Store
which was accordingly done February 5th. 1779
[233.] The Committee hearing of One Williams, who had
been an Engrosser and that a Deposition had been taken relative
to the same, obtained the sight thereof which is as follows Viz'.
BOSTON Decemr. 29th. 1778.
I Joshua Hubbard Peruke Maker testify and declare that on
Saturday last the 26 Day of December Currant, I was employed
by Samuel Williams, of Roxbury, as an Assistant in disposing of
his Meat in Boston Market, and was with him from the beginning
of the Sale, untill he sold the whole of his Marketting, and was
present when he counted the Money over in order to determine
what profits he made in the Course of the Day, and heard him
46 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
say, that out of four hundred and fifty Dollars, he was then pos-
sessed of, he on that Day cleared two hundred Dollars his Load
that he brought with him, having cost him but one hundred and
fifty Dollars, and added I have -got a damned sight of Money
On the ninth of February the Committee had information, that
one Dowse, and one Daniel Cane Bakers, had purchased some
Flour and sold it again to other Baker's for an advanced price, to
the detriment of the Poor of the Town, the Committee required
their Attendance the Same Day and they accordingly come, when
they weare asked the following Questions Viz'.
Q — Mr. Dowse have you bought any Flour lately
A: Yess I have bought some Rye and Wheat [234.] Flour,
for which I gave £17. 10/ and £18- p hundred and sold it to Mr.
Hart Baker for £20 p cwt.
Q. Have you now practized giving a higher price for Flour than
other Bakers
A. No
Mr. Dowse then said that Mr. Henry Bass come to him and
offered him Flour for £20 — p cwt. for Money out of Circulation,
that he purchased 3 Bills : for that Sum, and Sold it for the Same
price for good Money — He further said that Mr. Bass asked him
but £14 — p cwt. a few days before.
Q. Mr. Daniel Cane have you bought any Flour lately —
A. Yess. I bought of Mr. Henry Bass Eight Barrels of Flour
for £18 —p cwt and sold it to Mr. Hart for £20 — p cwt.
They were then both asked why they did not Bake it, their
Answer was because they got a higher Profit for selling it — The
Committee then desired they would refrain from such practices,
and they promised they Would —
The Committee have observed the extravagant price of Fish,
asked by the Fishermen at the Town Dock ; and would recommend
that some Step's may be taken by the Town for regulating the
price of that necessary Article of Life ; especially as Fishermen
from the Neighbouring Towns, who have come in with their Fish
and sold them at a moderate rate have had their Riggen &c cut to
pieces in the Night time, and their Fish thrown into the Docks by
some evil minded Persons — Upon the whole the Committee beg
[235.] to Report, that it was their Opinion, that the Names of
all who are found guilty of Monopolising the Necessaries of Life,
should be held up to publick View but since the Monopolizing Act
is now in force, the Committee humbly submit their Opinion to the
Consideration of the Town.
JOHN BALLARD Chairman
The foregoing Report having been received and considered,
Voted, that the same be accepted — also
Voted that the thanks of the Town be and are hereby given to
the Committee aforesaid for their diligent and faithfull discharge
of their duty
The Article in the Warrant Viz*. " To make choice if the Town
shall Judge proper of a Number of Persons, not exceeding Twelve
to be inspectors of the Market &c agreeable to a late Act of the
General Assembly of this State, Entitl'd an Act against Monopoly
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 47
and Forestalling was read and considered — as also the Act afore
raention'd
In a Motion made Voted, that the Town hereby express their
higest disapprobation of the Conduct of the Persons Reported by
the Committee of seven as Monopolizers and Forestallers, and that
they will proceed with after Offenders of this kind as their Offen-
cies may deserve, and the Laws will Justify
Voted, to proceed to the choice of a Committee of Inspection,
agreeable, to the Allowance of a late Act of the General Assem-
bly and that the Committee Consist of twelve Persons
'[236.] Voted, that Cap1. John Ballard
Mr. John Kennedy
Mr. Adam Colson
Mr. Moses Grant
Mr. Thomas Uran
Mr. Joseph Levering
Mr. Benjamin Edes
Mr. Samuel Ruggles
Mr. Richard Hunnewell
Mr. Joseph Shed
Mr. Jacob Roads
Cap'. Alexander Willson
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Voted, that the thanks of the Town be givdn to John Brown
Esqr. Moderator of this Town Meeting for his good Services
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in publick
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Fryday the 5th. Day
of March Anno Domini 1779
Warrant for calling the Meeting read
The Honble: John Hancock Esqr. was chosen Moderator of this
Meeting by a unanimous Vote
[337.] The Committee appointed by the Town the 5 of
March last to apply to a proper Gentleman to deliver an Oration
the 5th. of March Instant, to perpetuate the memory of the horred
Massacre, perpetrated on the Evening of the 5th. of March 1770
by a Party of Soldiers under the Command of Cap'. Thomas
Preston of the 29th. Regiment Reported
That having met together for the purposes mentioned in the
Towns Votes they had unanimously made choice of Col°. "William
Tuder to deliver an Oration on the 5th. of March Inst1: who had
according accepted of that service
The foregoing Report having been read by the Town Clerk one
of the Committees the Question was put — Whether the same shall
be accepted — Passed in the Affermative
Upon a Motion made the Town took into consideration, what
would be the best time to have the Oration pronounced ; as also
what place would be most suitable for the purpose — whereupon
Voted, that the Oration be delivered at 12 O'Clock at the Old
Brick Meeting House, the Hall not being Capacious enough to re-
48 CITY DOCUMENT Xo. *0i
ceive the Inhabitants that Attended upon the Occasion — the
Committee of that Society having before consented that the Meet-
ing House, should be made use of, for said purpose
[338.] Voted, that John Lowell Esqr.
Col°. Nathan1. Barber
Cap1. John Ballard
be a Committee to waite on Col°. William Tuder Esqr. and ac-
quaint him that it is the desire of the Town, that the Oration may
be delivered at the Old Brick Meeting House. 12 O'Clock this Day
Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to order the several Bells
in the Town to be tolled for half an Hour, beginning at one quar-
ter of an Hour after 9. O'Clock
Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to the Old Brick Meet-
ing House — at 12 O'Clock Forenoon
The Town met according to Adjournment 12. O. 'Clock, at the
Old Brick Meeting House
The Committee appointed to waite upon William Tuder Esqr. to
acquaint him with the Vote of the Town respecting the time and
place for the delivery of an Oration — Reported — That said
Gentleman was ready to comply with the Orders of the Town
An Oration to commemorate the horred Massacre of the Fifth
of March 1770 — and to impress upon the Minds of the Citizens,
the ruinous tendency of Standing Armes, being placed, in Free
and Populous Cities &c. was deliver'd by William Tuder Esqr. to
a Large and Crouded Audience, and received by them with great
Applause
[239.] On a Motion made and Seconded
Voted, that the Honble. John Hancock Esqr.
William Cooper
Mr. Barth0. Kneeland
Perez Morton Esqr.
John Lowell Esqr.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
John Scollay Esqr.
William Tuder Esqr. [sic]
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to Waite upon William
Tudor Esqr. and in the Name of the Town to thank him for the
Spirited and elegant Oration deliver'd by him at their request, in
oommemoration of the horred Massacre perpetrated on the Even-
ing of the 5th. of March 1770. by a party of Soldiers, of the 29*.
Regiment under the Command of Cap'. Thomas Preston, and to
request of him a Copy thereof for the Press.
On a Motion made and Seconded
Voted, that the Honble. John Hancock Esqr.
William Cooper
Mr. Barth0. Kneeland
Perez Morton Jisqr.
John Lowell Esqr.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
John Scollay Esqr.
William Tudor Esqr.
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to apply to a proper
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 49
Gentleman, to deliver an Oration on the 5th. of March next to per-
petuate the Memory of the horred Massacre perpetrated on the
Evening of the 5th. of March 1770 by a party of Soldiers of the
2!)"'. Regiment [24O.] Under the Command of Cap1. Thomas
Preston ; and to impress upon our Minds, the ruinous tendency of
Standing Armies, being placed, in Free and populous Cities in a
time of peace ; and the Necessety of such noble Exertions, in all
future times ; as the Inhabitants of the Town then made, whereby
the Designs of the^Consperators against the Publick Peace, maybe
still frustrated
Then the Meeting was dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in publickTown
Meeting Assembled at Farieuil Hall on Monday the 8th. Day of
March Anno, Domini 1779
Prayer was made by the Revd: Mr. Clark
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
Sundry Laws enjoined to be read at this Meeting were accord-
ingly read
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr, was chosen Moderator of this
Meeting by a unanimous Vote, and took his Seat accordingly
Mr. William Cooper was cliosen Town Clerk for the Year en-
suing, and took the Oath of Office for the faithfull discharge of
his duty, which Oath was administr'd by Mr. Justice Greenleaf
[/J41.] The Town proceeded to the choice of Nine Selectmen,
and the Votes being brought in and sorted, it appeared that
John Scollay Esqr.
Mr. Samuel Austin
Cap1. Gustavus Fellows
Mr. Harbottle Dorr
Deacon Thomas Greenough
Jonathan Williams Esqr.
Cap1. John Preston
Mr. Nathan Frazier
Ezckiel Price Esqr.
were chosen Selectmen for the Year ensuing
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for a Committee of Cor-
respondence, Inspection and Safety and upon sorting them it
appeared that
Nathaniel Barber Esqr.
Mr. Ebenezer Dorr
Cap'. Gustavus Fellows
Mr. John Winthrop
Cap'. Amasa Davis
Mr. John Lowell
Cap'. John Simpkins
Joseph Webb Esqr.
Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
Andrew Symms Esqr.
Mr. Samuel Ruggles
Mr. Sarson Belcher
50 CITY DOCUMENT No. SO.
where chose a Committee of Correspondence, Inspection, and
Safety for the Year ensuing
[242.] The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for Twelve
Overseers of the Poor, and upon sorting them it appeared, that
The Honble. William Phillips Esqr.
Isaac Smith Esqr.
Mr. Jonathan Mason
Cap1. Samuel Partridge
Mr. Samuel Whitwell
Mr. John White
Edward Proctor Esqr.
William Powell Esqr.
Mr. John Sweetser Junr.
Samuel Barret Esqr.
Mr. Samuel Hews
Mr. Nicholas Bowes
were chosen Overseers of the Poor for the year ensuing.
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for twelve Wardens, and
upon sorting them it appeared that
Cap'. Amasa Davis
Mr. John Lucas
Majr. Thomas Melvil — excused
Mr. John liigersol
Mr. Simeon Eliot
Mr. Cornelius Thayer
Mr. Joseph Kettle
Mr. John R. Sigourney
Mr. John Jenkins
Mr. Samuel Conaut
Mr. Joseph Ford
Cap*. Nath1. Fellows
were chose Wardens for the Year ensuing
[243.] The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for Sixteen
Fire Wards, and upon sorting them it appeared that
John Scollay Esqr.
William Cooper
Edward Proctor Esqr.
Francis Shaw Esqr.
Cap1. John Pulling
Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
Paul Reviere Esqr.
Andrew Syms Esqr.
Majr. Joseph Webb
Mr. John Winthrop
Mr. Thomas Tileston
Cap1. Gustavus Fellows
Cap1. John Ballard
Caleb Davis Esqr.
Mr. John Lowell
Mr. Thomas Melvil
were chosen fire Wards for the Year ensuing.
BOSTON TOAVX RECORDS, 1779. 51
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for a Town Treasurer,
and upon sorting them it appeared that
David Jeffries Esqr.
was chosen Town Treasurer for the Year ensuing.
Votes fpr a County Treasurer brought in, and being sealed up in
Town Meeting were delivered to Mr. Constable Bennet to' be by
him returned to the Court of General Sessions of the Peace at
their Next Meeting
[244.] Adjourned to 3. O. Clock in the Afternoon
3 O'Clock P: M: Met according to Adjournment
Major Edward Carnes
was chosen a Surveyor of Hemp : for the Year ensuing
Mess". John Bulfinch
Edward Ranger
Benjamin White
• James Blake
John Minzey
James Rogers
Uriah Norcross
William Moor
Joseph Ballard
John Champney
John Bell
Moses May
William Todd
Nathaniel Jenkins
Joseph Butler
Thomas Uran
Abraham Howard
Moses Ayres
Henry Blaisdel
Clement Collins Junr.
where chosen Surveyors of Boards for the Year ensuing
Messrs. Uriah Norcross
Joseph Daniels
Samuel Dyer
William Clough
Nathaniel Wales
were chose Fence Viewers for the Year ensuing
[245.] Mess". John Gray
Samuel Bangs
* Isaac Bird
Moses Bradley
where chose Sealers of Leather for the Year ensuing
Mr. Adam Colson
was chosen an Informer of Deer for ye. Year ensuing
Mess". Joshua Pico
Job Wheelwright
Benjamin Barnard
John Owen
Samuel Heyley
52 CITY DOCUMENT No. SO.
Joseph Dyer
William Oorbit
Israel Cook
Nathan Spear
Menassah Masters
Joseph Hammat
where chosen Cullars of Staves for the Year ensuing
Mess". Samuel Curtis «
Charles Simpson
Benjamin Wheeler
were chose Hogreeves for the Year ensuing
Mess™. George Hamlin
Isaack Tuckerman
were chose Haywards for the Year ensuing
Ward
Mess™. John Clough 1
Nathaniel Baker • 2
Nath1. Hitchburne 3
[246.] Freeman Pulsipher 4
James Adams 5
Moses Bradley 6
Daniel Perry 7
Jeremiah Webb 8
Daniel Parks 9
Thomas Green 10
Thomas Wheeler 1 1
Ebenezer Perry 12
were chose [Scavingers] for the Year ensuing
The Selectmen
were chose Surveyors of high Wayes for the Year ensuing
Jonathan Williams Esqr.
Mr. John Sweetser
Mr. John White
were chose Purchasers of Grain for the Year ensuing, and they
are desired and impowered to give all needfull direction to the
Keeper of the Granary, respecting the quantity of Grain to be
sold, and affixing the prices thereof from time to time as occa-
sion shall require, and the said Committee are desired and directed
to cause all the Grain belonging to the Town to be ground at the
New Mills near the Millbridgc
Mess". John Lucas
Edward Edes
were chose Surveyors of Wheat for the Year ensuing
[247.] Mess". Thomas Green
John Skiner
were chosen Assay Masters for the Year ensuing
Messrs. Thomas Walley
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
Thomas Dawes Esqr.
Ebenezer Storer Esqr.
be and they hereby are appointed a Committee to Audit the
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 177S). 53
Accompts of David Jeffries Esqr. Treasurer, and also the Ac-
compts of the Overseers of the Poor and the said Committee are
impowered when they shall Audit said Accompts to allow such of
the Overseers as shall Advance Money, for the Relief of the Poor,
Interest on all such Sums from the Time so advanced, untill they
shall have Audited said Accompts ; and they are also desired to
Report from time to time a State of the Treasurer, respecting
Debts and Credit, and on any matters, that they may think
proper —
Upon a Motion made the Question was put Whether Collectors
of Taxes shall be chose seperate from Constables — Passed in
the Affermative
On a Motion Voted, that
Caleb Davis Esqr.
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Mr. John Lowell
be a Committee to enquire respecting the payments made by the
Collectors, into the State, County, and Town Treasurers, and to
make Report as soon as may be
[248.] The Town brought in their Votes for twelve Con-
stables, the following Persons were chosen Viz'.
Messrs. John Bennet
Benjamin Clark
Daniel Parks
John Lambert excused
Samuel Sumner excused
Oliver Wiswell excused
John Jepsou
Pool Spear
Thomas Allen
Thomas Green
Francis Bigelow
John Daverson
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for Seven Assessors,
and upon sorting them it appear'd that,
Deacon Jonathan Brown
Gyles Harris Esqr.
Deacon Thomas Foster
Mr. George B. Gedney
Mr. Samuel Dyer
Mr. Samuel Ruggles declines
Mr. John Pulling
Mr. Moses May
were chose Assessors for the Year ensuing
Voted that the Assessors be and hereby are impowered, and
directed to set for Abatement of such Taxes, as they shall Judge
reasonable on every Day of the [249.] Month following the
delivery of the Tax Books, to the Collectors, Lords Days ex-
cepted, and no longer, saving that they be allowed to set the two
last Weeks in November for the Abatement of the Taxes of such
Persons as had not an opportunity of applying in the above lim-
ited time, by reason of their being out of the State ; at which time
54 CITV DOCUMKNT No. 80.
they are also allowed and impowered to abate the Taxes of such
Persons as may have died Insolvent before the last day of No-
vember
On a Motion Voted, that
John Lowell Esqr.
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Caleb Davis Esqr.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Samuel Barrett Esqr.
be a Committee to devise some way, whereby the Assessors may
be enabled to levey the Taxes in a more equitable manner
The Article in the Warrant Viz1.
To consider the request of the Overseers of the Poor, that some
effectual Measures may be taken for the immediate supply of the
Alms House with such Articles as are absolute!}" necessary to Sup-
port the Poor, of which they are at present almost totally desti-
tute", was read — whereupon
Voted, that David Jeffries Esqr.
Cap1. Gustavus Fellows
Cap'. Amasa Davis-
Caleb Davis Esqr.
Mr. Joseph BarreL
[25O.] Be a Committee to take this Matter into considera-
tion, and Report as soon as may be, what is best to be done
therein
Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourn'd to Wednesday next 9.
O'Clock, in the Forenoon
Wednesday the 10th. Day of March 9. O. Clock. Forenoon. Met
according to Adjournment
-The Town brought in their Votes for the following Persons were
chose Clarks of the Market for the Year ensuing — Viz'.
Mess™. Luke Baker
William Prentice
Robinson Crocker
Oliver Brewster
John Bright
Elisha Siaoney
John Coolidge
out of Town Daniel Sears
d°. Cap'. Gowen Brown
d°. William Knox
John Procter
William Scollay
The Town brought in their Votes for one Warden in the room
of one who had declined serving, when it appeared
Mr. Benjamin Sumner Jur. was chosen a Warden for the Year
ensuing
The Article in the Warrant Viz*. To consider of the Petition of
the Masters of the Writing Schools, that they may be further
considered with respect [251.] To their past Services", was
read, whereupon
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. .55
Voted, that Mr. Joseph Barrel
Perez Morton P^sqr.
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Cap1. Amasa Davis
Mr. Thomas Walley
be a Committee to take up the Schoolmaster's Petitions, and Report
at the Adjournment, what allowancies they shall Judge to be Ade-
quate for their past services
The Committee appointed to enquire respecting the Payments
made by the Collectors into the Town County, and State Treasu-
ries— Report — the State of their several payments into the re-
spective Treasuries out of the Sums they had committed to them
to Collect the past Year — as the Report on the file will more
fully appear
On a Motion made Voted that
Mr. Joseph Barrel
Perez Morton Esqr.
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Cap'. Amasa Davis
Mr. Thomas Walley
a Committee to whom the Writing Masters Petitions, — be also
desired to Report what they shall Judge to be a suitable Premium
for Collecting the Taxes the ensuing Year
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for four Collectors of
Taxes and upon sorting them it appeared that —
[J252.] Messts. Josiah Torrey
Francis Law Esqr.
Benjamin Surnner Jif.
James Thompson
were chose Collectors of Taxes for the Year ensuing.
The Article in the Warrant Viz'.
To consider the request of a number of the Inhabitants, that
the North part of the Town, may be put under the same advan-
tages as the South with respect to a Lattin Schoolmaster — was
read and after debate had thereon — a Motion wa.s made and the
Question accordingly put — Whether the Town will direct the
North Lattin School to be opened, and a Master appointed for
the said School — Passed in the Affermative
Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to appoint a Master for
the North Grammar School
The Committee appointed to consider what measures are proper
to be taken for the immediate Supply of- the Alms house with
Necessaries, — Report'd and the same having been read, and
large debate had thereon — it was moved and Voted, that the Re-
port be recommitted
The Article in the Warrant Viz'.
Whether the Town will make Sale of any part of their Land, on
the Neck and Else where, or otherwise improve the same " — was
read whereupon
[253.] Voted that David Jeffries Esqr.
Cap'. Gustavus Fellows
Cap'. Amasa Davis
56 CITY DOCUMENT Xo. 80.
Caleb Davis Esqr.
Mr. Joseph Barrel
be a Committee to consider said Article and Report at the Ad-
journment; what they Judge best for the Town to do thereon
On a Motion made Voted, that a Committee be appointed to
enquire into the expenditures of the Moneys which have been
granted by the Town, and what sum may be proper to be Voted
for defraying the necessary Expences of the Town the ensuing
Year- and that they also Report the Debts that are yet outstanding
Voted, that
Thomas Dawes Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley
Ellis Gray Esq.
Mr. Jonathan Mason
Mr. Samuel Ruggles
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Adjourned to 3 O :Clock in the Afternoon
3. O: Clock P.M. met according to Adjournment
The Committee relative to the Supply of the Almshouse, and
whether it would be best to make Sale of the Towns Land on the
Neck &c. Reported and the same being read —
[254.] Voted, that the Consideration of the Sale of Land, be
referred to the Adjournment, and that the Selectmen be directed,
to Notify the Inhabitants of the same — also —
Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to make enquiry rela-
tive to the Towns Title to their Real Estate —
Voted, that the further consideration of the best and most ex-
peditious Method of Supplying the Almshouse, be referred to the
Adjournment
The Committee appointed to devise some ways whereby the
Assessors may be enabled to levey the Taxes on the Inhabitants
in a more equitable way — Reported, that they had not as yet
been able to devise any method for that purpose
On a Motion Voted, that a Committee of twelve Persons be
appointed to aid the Assessors with their advice relative, to an
equal levying of the Taxes, and that the choice of a Committee
be referred to the Adjournment
The Committee of Nineteen for the borrowing Money and pur-
chasing Flour «fec — acquainted the Town with their proceedings
On a Motion, Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to confer
with the Selectmen of the Town of Roxbury respecting the Assise
of Bread &c
[255.] Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourn'd to Fryday the
twelfth Day of March Current 10. O. Clock Forenoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned —
Fryday the 12th Day of March 1779 10. O :Clock Forenoon -
Met according to Adjournment
The Article in the Warrant Viz4. To consider what regulations
may be necessary relative to Faneuil Hall and the Fish Markets
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 57
— was read — whereupon Voted, that this Buissiness of regulat-
ing said Markets, be left with the Gentlemen the Selectmen
The Selectmen appointed a Committee to confer with the
Selectmen of the Town of Roxbury. relative to the Assise of
Bread — Reported that they had a Conferrance with the Select-
men of that Town, who assured them of their readiness to co-
operate with us with respect to the Assise of Bread
The Committee " to consider the expediency of making sale of
Towns Land on the Neck and "elsewere — Reported again, and
the same having been considered, and debated, paragraph by Par-
agraph— the Question was put — Whether the Town will accept
of said Report — passed in the Negative
Adjourned to Three. O. Clock in the Afternoon
3. O. Clock P: M: Met according to Adjournment
That Clause in the Warrant — Viz'. To consider what Means
shall be used for the preservation of Beacon Hill &c read, whereupon
[256.] Voted, that this Matter be left to the Selectmen, and
that they be hereby authorised and directed, to persecute in Law
any Person, who shall have trespassed upon said Hill
Voted, that the sum of Thirty Thousand Pounds be raised by a
Tax, upon Polls and Estates within this Town for the Relief of
the Poor and defreying other necessary Charges arising within the
Town the ensuing year
The Article in the Warrant. Viz1. To consider the request of the
Overseers of the Poor, that some effectual Measures may be taken
for the immediate Supply of the Almshouse &c — was again read
and considered — whereupon
Voted, that the Sum of Six Thousand Pounds, out of the Tax
of Thirty Thousand Pounds already Voted to defray the Charges
of the Town the Year ensuing, be appropriated for the Sole use of
the Alms house —
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be and he hereby is directed
and impowered to borrow in Current Money a Sum not exceeding
Six thousand Pounds, to be paid to the Order of the Overseers of
the Poor, in the Alms House, for which he is to issue his negoti-
able Notes, payable to the Lenders, on Interest in currant Money
out of the present Tax, no part of said Sum to be made use of for
any other purpose — also
[257.] Voted, that the Gentlemen the Overseers of the Poor
be a Committee to procure Subscriptions for the Six thousand
Pounds, to be appropriated out of the present Tax for the use of
the Alms House, for which the Treasurer is to Issue his negoti-
able Notes, carrying Interest, payable to the Lenders in Current
Money out of the present Tax
The Committee appointed to consider the Petitions of the School-
masters and Report Meet Sums for their past Services up to the
first of this present Month March the following Sums Viz*.
To Mr. Samuel Holbrook, a Sum which with what has been
already granted the past year will make up Six hundred Pounds
for himself, One hundred Pounds for his Usher, and thirty Pounds
in consideration of his House Rent
58 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
To Mr. John Tileston the Same Sums
To Mr. James Carter, the same Sum except the thirty Pounds,
his House being found by the Town
The Committee are sorrey to observe the Just complaints of the
Schoolmasters, on account of their not receiving in season the
sums which are granted them, and recommend it to the Town,
that Some method may be taken, that they be timely paid in future
or at least Interest may be allowed them for any difficiency to
enable them to pay on Interest for what they are Obliged to bor-
row for their dayley Support
J. BARREL p order
[258.] Adjourned to uext Monday Week 10 O,Clock —
Monday 22d. March. 10. O. Clock Forenoon, met according to
Adjournment
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr. Moderator of this Meeting
having acquainted the Town, that he was prevented by Sickness
from Attending his duty
The Inhabitants were thereupon directed to withdraw and bring
in their Votes for a Moderator, during the absence of Col°. Han-
cock— and the Votes being accordingly brought in and sorted, it
appeared that
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
was chosen Moderator of this Meeting Pro. Tern :
Voted that the consideration of Schoolmasters, Salaries, and
all other Salaries and Grants, be referred over to next May
Meeting
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. " To consider what further
Method can be taken for our Relief under the present extravagant
prices of the Necessaries of Life " — was read — whereupon
Voted that the further consideration of this Article be reierred
to the Ajournment
The Article in the Warrant — Viz*. — To consider whether
Measures may not be adopted to furnish the Inhabitants with
Vcgitables the ensuing Year, at a Much less expence then there
being supplied therewith by the Neighbouring Towns — was read
whereupon
[259.] Voted, that Mr. Isaac Pierce
Mr. Enoch Brown
Mr. Samuel Brick
Cap'. Job Prince
Mr. John Lowell
Mr. Cornelius Thayer
Mr. Andrew Oliver
be a Committee to take this matter into consideration, and to Re-
port at the Adjournment what they Judge best for the Town to
do thereon — Mr. Benjamin Sumner, Mr. Oliver Wiswell and Mr.
John Lambert Jur. having requested the Town that they might be
excused from serving as Constables, inio which Office they had
been chosen — they were accordingly excus'd
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for four Constables, and
upon sorting them it appeared that
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 59
Messrs. John Kennedy excused
Benjamin Cudworth
Robert Wier
John Fullerton
were chose Constables for the Year ensuing
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for one Constable,
wherein it appeared that
Mr. John Wells
was chosen Constable for the Year ensuing
Col°. Proctor having requested the Town to be excused from
the Committee appointed to Aid the Assessors — he was accord-
ingly excused.
[26O.] The Article in the Warrant — Viz'. To consider
whether any Measures shall be taken to prevent Horses going at
Large on the Common " — was read — Whereupon
Voted, Cap*. Samuel Partridge
Edward Procter Esqr.
Mr. John Lowell
Mr. Moses Grant
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid, to Report at the
Adjournment
The Article in the Warrant — Viz'. Whether the Town will di-
rect the Selectmen to receive the portion of Fire Arms assigned
the Town, and now lying in the hands of the Honble. Board of
War — was read — whereupon Voted, that the Town Treasurer be
directed to call upon the Committee for purchasing Arms, for the
Moneys left in their hands
On a Motion Voted, that the aforegoing Vote, be reconsidered,
and that
•John Marston
Joseph Barrel
Cap'. Jacob Williams
Mr. Martain Brimmer
Cap1. Joseph Webb
a Committee appointed Last Year for the purchase of Small Arms,
be desired to apply to the Board of War for the purchase of so
many of the Towns proportion of small Arms Assigned by the
General Assembly, as they have Money in their Hands, and may
arise by the further sale of Small Arms to the Inhabitants of this
Town and them only — also
[261.] Voted, that Edward Procter Esqr.
Col°. Jabez Hatch
be added to the Committee
Adjourned to Wednesday 31 Day of March Currant 3. O :Clock,
P. M:
Wednesday 31st. of March 1779. 3. O : Clock P: M: Met ac-
cording to Adjournment
General Hancock in the Chair
The Committee appointed to consider what was proper to be
done to prevent Horses going at large on the Common — Reported
That it is their Opinion the Fine for Horses going at large be
60 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
aughmented to forty shillings which they think will be sufficient to
prevent such practises in future, and that application be made to
proper Authority for the above purpose all which is humbly Sub-
mitted
SAM: PARTRIDGE Chairman
The foregoing Report being read, after some debate had
thereon, a Motion was made, that the further consideration of
this Report be referred
The Committee appointed to take into consideration whether
Measures may not be adopted to furnish the Inhabitants with
Vegitables the ensuing Year at a much less expence than there
being supplied therewith by the Neighbouring Towns — beg leave
to Report, that it is their Opinion, it will be much for the Interest
of the Town, to have as much of the Waste "Land in this Town as
may be [262.] Improved for raising Vegitables for the Inhabi-
tants more especially a certain Tract of Land at West Boston con-
taining Twenty Acres or upward belonging to the following
Proprietors, who have consented the same shall be improved for
the above purpose free of Rent Viz'. Cap*. Job Prince. Mr. Heze-
kiah Blanchard, the Heirs of James Allen, the Heirs of John and
Thomas Leaverett. Mr. Andrew Symms, Mr. Clough, Mr. Harris,
Dr. Sprague. Mr. Edward Carnes, and Mr. Sumner ; the Com-
mittee are therefore of Opinion that the Town be at the expence
of inclosing said Lauds, and that some suitable Person or Persons
be appointed to carry the same into execution, and also to Lease
out the same to such Persons as will cultivate the said Land,
agreeable to his or their contract
JOB PRINCE Chairman
The foregoing Report being read and considered
Voted, that the same be accepted and that the Committee be
requested and impowered to carry their said Report into execution
The Town took into consideration the Vote of the Town passed
the 12 Ins*, appointing a Committee of twelve Persons to aid the
Assessors with their advice relative to an equal levying of the
Taxes, whereupon
Voted, that Mr. Samuel Breck, and the other Gentlemen, chosen
be excused from that service ; and that the Town Clerk be directed
to erase the Minutes of that Appointment, from the Minute Book
[263.] The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for one Con-
stable, and upon sorting them it appeared that
Mr. John Kennedy
was chosen a Constable for the year ensuing
The Article in the Warrant — Viz'. To consider whether there
shall be a Provision of the By Laws of the Town, and such others
agreed upon as shall be thought Necessary," was read — where-
upon
Voted, that Ezekiel Price Esqr.
William Tudor Esqr.
John Lowell Esqr.
Joseph Greenleaf Esqr.
Perez Morton Esqr.
be and hereby are appointed a Committee for that purpose aforesaid
BOSTON TOWN KECORDS, 1779. 61
On a Motion Voted, that the Report of the Committee, relative
to Horses going at Large, on Common, be referred to the foregoing
Committee
The Committee appointed to consider and Report, what they
apprehend would be a suitable Premium to be allowed the Col-
lectors for gathering in the Taxes, Reported, that in their Opinion
Nine pence on the Pound, on the whole sum, they may Collect,
will be an allowance adequate for their Services — whereupon,
after some debate, it was moved and Voted, that the further con-
sideration of this matter be referred to May Meeting
[264.] Voted, that the Sum of Two thousand Pounds out of
the Tax of thirty Thousand Pounds already Voted, to defrey the
Charges, of the Town the Year ensuing, be appropriated, for the
Supply of the Families of the Non Commissioned Officers and
Soldiers in the Continental Army ,
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be and he hereby is directed
and impowered to borrow in Current Money a Sum not exceeding
two Thousand Pounds, to be paid to Cap'. John Simpkins the
Commissary to supply the Families of the Continental Soldiers in
this Town for which he is to issue his Negotiable Notes Payable
to the Lenders on Interest in Current Money out of the present
Tax, no part of said sums to be made use of, for any other pur-
pose — also
Voted, that Cap'. John Simpkins be a Committee, to procure Sub-
scriptions for the loan of two thousand Pounds to be appropriated
out of the present Tax, for the Supplies of the Families of the
Continental Soldiers, for which the Treasurer is to issue his
Negotiable Notes, carrying Interest payable to the Lenders in
Current Money out of the present Tax
Voted, that all Matters and Things which remain unfinished be
referred over to the General Town Meeting in May next, then to
be considered and acted upon
Then the Meeting was dissolved
[265.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and Other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in
publick Town Meeting the 5th. Day of May Anno Domini 1779
Prayer was made by the Revd. Dr. Mather
The Precipt and Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
Sundry Laws read —
The Town having determined to choose Seven Persons to
Represent them in the Great and General Court or Assembly
to be held at the Town House in Boston upon Wednesday the
26 Day of May Current — The Inhabitants were accordingly
directed to withdraw and bring in their — Votes, for Seven Rep-
resentatives and then it was declared by the Selectmen that no
Votes will be received, but such as are unfolded, and that they
propose the Poll shall be closed at 12 O. Clock
The Votes, being brought in for Seven Representatives, the
Number of the same were found to be four hundred, thirty one ; —
and upon sorting them it appeared that the following Persons
only were chose — Viz'.
62 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. — 383
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr. — 431
Caleb Davis Esqr. — 431
[266.] resigned Gustavus Fellows — 335
Mr. Thomas Walley — 241
William Tudor Esqr. — 372
A Motion made that this Meeting be Adjourned to three.
O. Clock P: M: for the choice of one Representative — and the
•Question being put in the Affermative ; and the Meeting was
accordingly Adjourned
3. O. Clock: Met according to Adjournment —
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw, and bring in their
Votes, for one Representative, and that the Poll be closed at
4. O. Clock
The Votes being brought in and sorted it appeared, that the
Number of Votes were three hundr'd twenty Eight, and that
Thomas Daws Esqr.
was chosen
Seven Representatives having been chosen as, Voted, by the
Town ; a motion was made and after some debate carried, that
a Moderator be now chosen, that the Town may proceed in a
legal way, to consider and determine upon that Article in the
Warrant which relates to the Constitution
The Inhabitants having withdrawn and brought in their Votes,
for a Moderator
It Appeared that
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr.
was chosen
[267.] The Article in the Warrant relative to a new Consti-
tution and Form of Government having been read a Motion was
made, that this matter be considered at the Adjournment, and
that the Selectmen, be directed to send out printed Notifications
to the Inhabitants of said Adjournment and the buissiness to be
transacted — and the Question being accordingly put — Passed
in the Affirmative
Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to Monday next. 11.
O'Clock Forenoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned, the Town having
first chosen General Hancock, as Moderator to provide, when the
other buissiuess of the Warrant is to be transacted, which, was
Adjourned to 3. 0. Clock of said Day
Monday the 10th. Day of May, 11 O :Clock Forenoon, Met ac-
cording to Adjournment
Cap*. Gustavus Fellows chosen one of the Representatives, on
Wednesday last having sent in writing his resignation, which was
read to the Town — a Motion was made, that Mr. Hancock should
leave the Chair, that the Selectmen proceed to the Choice of one
Representative in the room of Mr. Fellows — and the same being
Voted, another Motion was made and carried. Viz1. That the
Choice of Representative be referred to 3 O'Clock Afternoon
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 63
It was then declared by the Selectmen that no Votes will be
then received, but such as are unfolded, and that they propose
[268.] The Poll should be closed at 4. O. Clock
General Hancock having again taken the Chair, the Article in
the Warrant relative to a new Constitution or form of Govern-
ment was read and considered whereupon
Voted, that a Committee of five Persons be appointed to consider
and Report to the Town their Opinion on the Second Question pro-
posed in the Resolve of the General Court, and inserted in the
Warrant
Voted, that John Lowell Esqr.
Perez Morton Esqr.
Joseph Barrel Esqr.
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Samuel Barrett Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
The Votes on the First Question in the Resolve having been
brought in and counted, the Number was found to be Three
hundred fifty one, and upon examining them it appeared that they
were all Yeas
The Town having been unanimous in answering the first Ques-
tion in the Affermative the Committee on the second Question,
were called upon for their Report, and the same" being given in,
and read — it was moved and Voted, that the further Considera-
tion of this Question be referred to 3. O: Clock P.M.
Adjourned to Three O O. Clock, in the Afternoon
[269.] 3. 0. Clock Afternoon met according to Adjournment
The Votes being brought in for one Representative, and sorted,
the numbers was found to be one hundred ninety two, and that
Mr. Samuel Austin
was chosen by a very great majority
The choice of Representatives being over General Hancock took
the Chair
The Committee appointed to consider and Report to the Town
their Opinion on the second Question in the Resolve of the General
Court, respecting a Constitution — Report that the following Vote,
be passed if agreeable to the Town Viz'.
That We will impower our Representatives to Vote for the call-
ing a State Convention, provided it shall appear to them on exam-
ination, that a Major part of the People present and Voting at
the Meeting called in the manner and for the purposes aforesaid
shall have answered the first Question in the Afferraative ; under
the Restrictions following — Viz'. — That the Convention be so
formed as to contain an equal Representation of the Several parts
[ of the State, and that our Representatives be impowerecl to agree
to a Constitution on no other Terms
The foregoing Report having been read and considered, the
Question was put — Whether the same shall be accepted — Passed
in the Affermative
[27O.] The Article in the Warrant which respects a new
Constitution or form of Government having been acted upon ; the
64 CITY DOCUMENT No. 8(X
Town proceed to the Considerations of the other matters mintained
in the Warrant
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr. Moderator
The Article in the Warrant. Viz'. To consider what method
shall be takep for the immediate raising a sufficient Sum of Money
for the Commissary appointed to supply the Families of the non
Commissioned Officers and Soldiers, who have engaged in the
Continental Army, in conformity to a Resolve of the General
Court — was read and considered, whereupon
Voted, that the Sum of Four Thousand in addition to the two
thousand Pounds, already granted, out of the Tax of thirty thou-
sand Pounds already Voted, to defray the Charges of the Town
the ensuing year be appropriated for the Supply of the Families of
the non Commissioned Officers and Soldiers in the Continental
Army, also
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be and he hereby is directed
and impowered to borrow in Current Money a Sum not exceeding
four Thousand Pounds in Addition to the two thousand already
granted, to be paid to Cap*. John Simpkins appointed Commissary
to Supply the Families of the Continental Soldiers in this Town,
for which he is to issue his negotiable Notes payable — to the
lenders on Interest in Current Money out of the present Tax
[271.] Or the fund provided by the General Court for the pur-
pose aforesaid, no part of said Sum to be made use of for any
other occasion — ^
Samuel Brick
Henderson Inches
William Powell
Edward Payne
Stephen Higginson
William Foster
Thomas Hitchburne
be a Committee to procure Subscriptions for the two thousand and
four thousand Pounds to be appropriated out of the present Tax,
for the supply of the Families of the Continental Soldiers for which
the Treasurer is to issue his Negotiable Notes, carrying Interest,
payable to the Lenders in Current Money out of the present Tax,
or the fund provided by the General Court for the purpose afore-
said
The Article in the Warrant Viz*. — To consider, whether In-
structions shall be given to the Representatives that may be chosen
— was read — whereupon
Voted, that John Lowell Esqr.
Nathaniel Appleton
William Cooper
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
be a Committee to draught Instructions for the Gentlemen chosen
to Represent this Town in the next General Court and that they
Report the same at the Adjournment of this Meeting
On. a Motion made Voted, that this Meeting be Ad-
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 65
journed to Monday next being the Seventeenth Day of May Inst
10. OClock in the Forenoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Monday the 17 Day of May 10. OClock Forenoon, met according
to Adjournment
The Honble. John Haucock Esqr. Moderator of this Meeting,
having acquainted the Town that he could not attend by reason of
indisposition of Body ; a Motion was made and carried that a
Moderator Pro. Tern0, be now chosen by a Hand Vote —
Colo. Thomas Dawes
was chosen Moderator Pro. Tern0, and took his Seat Accordingly
A Motion was made, that the Report of the Committee to Audit
the Accompts of Mr. Treasurer Jeffries, be now_read and acted
upon ; but it being objected to on account of so few of the Inhab-
itants being present, the Motion was passed over
A Motion was made, that this Meeting for the foregoing reason,
be Adjourned to Tuesday the 18 Day of May, Three O.Clock in
the Afternoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
[273.] Tuesday May 18th. 3. O.Clock Afternoon, met accord-
ing to Adjournment
The Committee to prepare a Draught of Instructions were
called upon to make report — whereupon a Motion was made that
the Committee may be filled up
Voted that David Jeffries Esqr. be one of the Committee to
prepare a Draught of Instructions for the Representatives of this
Town in General Assembly
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. — To consider what regula-
tions are necessary to be made respecting Fanueil Hall Market,
was read, and after debate had thereon
Voted, that the Gentlemen Selectmen be directed to give Orders
that the Doors of Fanueil Hall Market, be hung as usual — also
Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to see that the terms upon
which the Butchers hold and improve the Stalls in Fanueil Hall
Market, are fully complied with
The Committee appointed to Draught Instructions for the
Gentlemen chosen to Represent this Town in General Assembly
the ensuing Year — Reported, a Draught which having been
amended is as follows — Viz1.
[274.] To the Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr.
Honble. John Hancock Esqr.
Caleb Davis Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley
William Tudor Esqr.
Thomas Dawes Esqr.
Samuel Austin Esqr.
Gentlemen
Notwithstanding the Evidence of the Town have given of their
confidence in your integritys and abilities by choosing you to rep-
resent them in the General Assembly, at this critical and important
66 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
conjuncture, they mean however to exercise a right of giving you
such Instructions from time to time as they shall Judge the exi-
gence of affairs may require
We trust that the Independance of this and our Sister States of
America is under Providence secure from the force and insidious
designs of our Enemies, yet we are still engaged in a War with
great Britain, whose malice hightned by shagrin will we doubt not
prompt them to contrive and make use of every Method to dis-
tress us, we Instruct you to use your early efforts to procure and
keep in the field, our full proportion of the Continental Army,
that a speedy and honourable end may be put to this bloody and
distructive th6. Just and necessary War, and that you do not
suffer yourselves to be diverted from this object on any Account
whatsoever
[275.] Being also sensible that man}' secret Enemies still
lurking among us, and are plotting our ruin, we expect you will
with the uttermost vigilance guard us against their base and
treachourous designs, and in order to effect this that you use all
your influence in the General Assembly, that the Resolves of Con-
gress, and the Law of this State provided for our securiety be
carried into full execution, and such other Laws, enacted as may
appear necessary to ensure this end
At a legal Town Meeting Convened for the Purpose of con-
sidering and determining upon the Questions proposed in a Resolve
of the late General Assembly, we have by a Vote impowered you
to agree to the calling a State Convention for the sole purpose of
framing a new Constitution or form of Government ; upon this
express condition that the Convention so called be upon some
equal plan, and althd. in our opinion, as many Persons will have a
Voice in this Matter as would were the War at an end, we cannot
however but express our wishes, that if it should be found practi-
cable, our Bretheren in the Army may also have a voice in approv-
ing or disapproving any Constitution that may be formed before
the same be finally established
With respect to the best method of calling this Convention, it is
our sentement that equality of Representation is an indispensaible
requiset, and that in order to avoid so numerious an Assembly as
will take place if each [276.] Town and District send Delagates
in proportion to their numbers ; we would therefore recomend that
the General Assembly fix upon a Compotant number, and call
upon the Several Counties to send Delagates to form this Conven-
tion in proportion to their respective numbers, and that the several
parts of the Counties may be equally and fairly represented, that
the Countys be divided for this purpose into Districts out of each
of which the Delagates shall be chose in proportion to the num-
bers in each District
And you are to move for an Act of the General Assembly, to
vacate the Seat of such Members of either House of Assembly, as
may be Elected Members of the Convention for forming a Consti-
tution
We would further recommend that such Grants and allowances
be made the Officers and Servants of this State as may be ade-
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 67
quate to their respective servicies, taking due care that no partial
iniquality should take place with respect to such Grants
We readily Submitt all other matters of publick moment which
may come before you. and require your Consideration, to your own
fairness and discretion, and trust that your exertions will be
such as shall give the approbation of your Fellow Citizens
JOHN LOWELL,
p Order
[£77.] The foregoing Draught as amended having been read
and considered, the Question was put — Whether the same shall
be axcepted as Instructions for our Representatives — passed in
the Afferraative
Adjourned to Thursday next 3. O. Clock. P: M
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in publick
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Tuesday the 18th
Day of May. 3. O. Clock P: M.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
The Town having Voted, to choose a Moderator, to manage the
buisiness of this Meeting by a Hand Vote
Samuel Austin Esqr. was chosen but declined serving after
which Mr. Thomas Walley was chosen, but also declining, a num-
ber of other Gentlemen were chosen, and declined serving, after
which
Thomas Daws Esqr. was chosen and took his Seat as Moder-
ator
The Article in the Warrant — Viz*. To consider of some Method
to insure the Collectors to receive the Moneys out of Circulation
in discharge of the State Tax lately Assessed, as the Rate Bills
are not [378.] Like to be delivered to the Inhabitants before the
expiration of the time liruitted by Law for the receiving said
Moneys by the State Treasurer — was read and duly considered
— Whereupon the following Vote passed — Viz*.
Whereas it appears to this Town, that their is no probability of
the Rate Bill being deliver'd to the Inhabitants, before the time
by Law expires for receiving the two Emissions of Continental
Money out of Circulation into the State Treasury ; and whereas
many of the Inhabitants have reserved Moneys of said Emissions
for the payment of their Taxes, it is therefore
Voted, that the several Collectors in this Town be and they
hereby are directed and impowered immediately after given Bonds
to the approbation of the Selectmen to proceed and apply to the
Inhabitants who are Taxable in their respective Wards, and re-
ceive from them such Sums of Money as they may choose to
pay, giving them Receits for the same to be deducted from their
future Taxes ; and the said Collectors are further directed to pay
into the State Treasurey all the Moneys they may so receive be-
fore the 28 Day of May Ins1, out on account of the late State
Tax-
That Article in the Warrant — Viz'. To consider what disposi-
tion shall be made of the Money arising from the Sale of damaged
68 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Fire Arms [279.] Now in the Hands of the Committee for pur-
chasing Arms for the Militia of this Town " — was read — where-
upon
Voted, that this Money be paid by said Committee into the
Treasury ; and that David Jeffries Esqr. the Town Treasurer be
directed to pay the same to Cap'. John Simpkins Commissary to
enable him to provide for Soldiers Families agreeable to the re-
quirement of the General Assembly by a late Resolve
Voted, that the thanks of the Town be and hereby are given to
Thomas Daws Esqr. for his good servicies as Moderator of this
Meeting
Then the Meeting was dissolved
Thursday 3. O. Clock P.M Met according to Adjournment of
May Meeting
The Report of the Committee relative to the Collectors of
Taxes Premium, or allowance of Collecting the Taxes, was again
read and taken up after some debate, a Motion was made that
said Report be recommitted — and the Question being put passed
in the Affermative — also ,
Voted, that Mr. Samuel Ruggles be added to said Committee in
the Room of Mr. Ellis Gray who is absent
The Committee appointed to consider of a Meet allowance to
the Collectors of Taxes for their trouble in Collecting — Reported
the following Vote, which was accepted by the Town — Viz1.
[28O.] Voted, that the Sum of One Shilling on the Pound,
be and hereby is allowed to the Persons chose Collectors of Taxes
the Year ensuing, for all which Sums they shall Collect ; provided
they pay the same into the severell Treasuries within four Months,
and nine pence on the Pound on all such other Sums as they shall
have so paid into the Treasurer on or before the second Monday
in March 1780 — This Premium as above expressd, appears to be
Just and equitable and an ample allowance to the Collectors to
encourage them to discharge their Duty with dilligence and Fidelity
provided also that each of said Collectors give Bond with sufficient
Sureties to the Satisfaction of the Selectmen for the faithfull dis-
charge of their Duty in said Office, and complying with this Vote
The Committee appointed to examine the Accounts of David
Jeffries Esqr. Town Treasurer have attended that service and find
the same right Cast and well vouched, in which he chargeth him-
self with the Sundry Rents and other Incomes of the Town,
Amounting to Twenty five thousand five hundred and Seventy
Pounds, eight Shillings and Six pence half penny
And the Said Treasurer discharges himself by Abatements made
the Collectors amounting to Two Thousand eight hundred and
Forty four Pounds one Shilling and ten Pence — by Draughts
made by the Selectmen amounting to eleven thousand nine
hundred and seven Pounds sixteen shillings and ten Pence, of
which he has paid eight thousand one hundred and Eighty Seven
pounds thirteen Shillings and ten Pence — [281.] By Draughts
made by the Overseers of the Poor, amounting to nine Thousand
Six hundred and Seventy Seven Pounds four Shillings and Six
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 69
pence of which he has paid Seven thousand nine hundred and
thirty five Pounds nineteen Shillings and eleven Pence — Also by
sundry Sums paid for Interest amounting. to Four thousand and
twenty eight Pounds, Seventeen Shillings and Six Pence — The
Debit of Town Treasury in the Treasurers Books Amounts to
thirty Thousand four hundred and fifty one Pounds five Shillings
and two Pence half Penny
The Committee have inspected said Draught in every particular
manner, and every other branch of Publick charge, amounting in
the whole as above to thirty Thousand four hundred and fifty one
Pounds five Shillings and two Pence half Penny as by Account of
Town Treasury in the Treasurers Books, ballance whereof being
four thousand eight hundred and eighty Pounds sixteen Shillings
and eight Pence is carred to the Debit of new Account
Which Report being read — Voted, that the same be and hereby
is accepted
A Letter of the Barrack Master General to the Selectmen of the
Town, praying leave to erect some Barracks, on such part of the
Towns Land, as shall be thought most suitable and Convenient,
was laid before the Town, when it appeared to be the sense of
the Town that the Selectmen confir with General Heath, and pur-
pose a Slip of Ground on Fort Hill for the purpose aforesaid
[282.] The Town took up the consideration of a proper allow-
ance to the Several Schoolmasters whereupon a Motion was
made and carried that a Committee 'be now chosen to hear the
Several Schoolmasters, and Ushers, and the Town Treasurer, and to
Report, what Sum they may Judge to be adequate to their servicies
for the present Year, at the Adjournment of this Meeting, if theire
should be one ; or at the next Town Meeting
Voted, that Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley
Mr. Joseph Barrel
Samuel Barret Esqr.
Mr. Nicholas Bowes
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
on a Motion made
Voted, that all matters, and Things which remain unfinished be
referred over to the next Town Meeting that may be called and
acted upon —
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to Thomas Daws
Esqr.the Moderator of this Meeting for dispatching the buissi-
ness thereof
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
[283.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and' Other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in
publick Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Fryday the
9th. Day of July Anno Domini 1779 10. O. Clock — Forenoon
Warrant for calling the Meeting read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Moderator ; and the same having been brought in and
sorted, it Appeared that
70 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. was chosen Moderator of the
Meeting
The Article in the Warrant Viz'.
To impower the Committee of Correspondence Inspection and
Safety aud such other Persons as the Town may think proper to
be Joined with them, to meet the Convention at Concord on the
14 Instant for the purpose of carrying into effect, the Measures
Congress have recommended in their late Address " — was read ;
and after large debate had thereon the Question was put — Viz1.
— Whether the Town will now proceed to the choice of a Com-
mittee to meet in Convention at Concord on the 14th. of July
Currant, with such Committies as may be sent by other Towns,
for the purpose of carrying into effect such Measures, as have been
recommended by Congress in their late Address ; and the Resolu-
tions and proceedings of the People of this Town in consequence
of said Address at their Meeting on the 17th. of June last —
Passed in the Affermative
[284.] Voted, that this Committee consist of Seven Per-
sons
Voted that this Committee be chosen by Ballot
The Inhabitants having brought in their Votes for a Committee,
and the same being sorted, it appeared that
Mr. Samuel Ruggles
Cap*. Amasa Davis
Mr. Thomas Walley
Ellis Gray Esq1.
Mr. Stephen Higginson
Samuel Barret Esqr.
Cap1. John Ballard
were chose -by a great Majority
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. " What — Measures are
proper to be taken by the Town for the Security of the Same
when so many Prisoners of War are going at large — was read —
whereupon
Voted, that Mr. Joseph Barrel, & General Hancock be a Com-
mittee to take this Matter into Consideration, and Report what
they may Judge most expedient to be done thereon
Adjourned to 3 O. Clock in the Afternoon
3. O. Clock P: M: Met according to Adjournment
The Committee appointed to consider what Measures are most
expedient relative to Prisoners going at large in this Town — Re-
ported verbally — And the Town having considered of the same
came into the following Votes — Viz'.
[285.] Voted, the Committee of Correspondence Inspection
and Safety be requested, instantly to apprehend and secure every
Prisoner who has not the benefit of a Parole in this Town ; and to
make early and suitable representation to the Honble. the Council
of this State ; representing the inexpediency and danger of Pris-
oners being at large in this Metropolis at any time, during the
continuance of this War, but more particular at the present
Voted, that every Inhabitant of this Town be and hereby is
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 71
earnestly called upon to Report to the Committee of Correspond-
ence Inspection and Safety, the Names of any Persons whose
Characters are Suspicious ; that a Matter of so much consequence
to the Safety of this Town, may be properly and effectually
attended lo
Mr. Ruggles chosen a Member of the Committee of Convention
having desired to be excused by the Town from serving on that
Committee — the Question was put — Whether the Town will
excuse him — passed in the Negative
The Committee chosen to hear the Several Schoolmasters, and
Ushers, as also the Town Treasurer and Report at this Meeting
what Sums they Judge to be adequate to their services for the
present Year ; having heard the said Schoolmasters, Ushers and
Treasurer & considered what Sums may be adequate to their
Servicies — Report that by the high price of Provisions and all the
necessary Articles of Life, the Schoolmasters, Ushers and the
Town Treasurer, for Six months only, to commence in March last
receive the Sums following — Viz1.
[286.] Mr. Samuel Hunt £1000
Mr. William Bentley 650
Mr. Samuel Holbrook 640
Including House Rent Mr. John Tileston ------ 700
Including d°. - Mr. James Carter 600
Mr. Holbrook the Usher - - - - 300
And that the Town Treasurer receive for six Months ) ^^
to commence in March last --/
The foregoing Report having been considered, and amended,
the Question was put — Viz'. — whether the same shall be ac-
cepted— Passed in the Affermative
On a Motion, Voted, that the aforenamed Committee on Grants,
be desired to make enquiry into the past Servicies of the Town
Treasurer, and make Report at the Adjournment what Sum they
shall Judge to be adequate thereto
The following Persons were chose Clerks of the Market for
the ensuing Year in the Room of Cap*. Gowen Brown, William
Prentice, William Knox and Daniel Sears who are out of Town
Messrs. Benjamin Austin Jur.
William Ball Juur.
William Denuison
John Joy
On a Motion Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to publish
an Extract from the Law relative to Strangers ; and that they
use their utmost endeavors, that an Act of such consequence to
this Town, be most strictly observed
[287.] Voted, that the foregoing Vote calling upon the
Inhabitants to give in the Names of Persons suspected to be
inimical to the Cause of America to the Committee of Corre-
spondence Inspection and Safety be also published in the News
Papers
Adjourned to Monday the 26th. Day of July Instant 10:
O: Clock before Noon
And the Meeting was accordingly adjourned
72 Crrr DOCUMENT No. 80.
Monday 10. 0: Clock Forenoon met according to Adjourn-
ment
The Article in the Warrant. Viz'. u To consider what is proper
to be done in order to have the Ways at Winuisimit Ferry put in
proper repair" — was read and considered — whereupon
Voted, that the Selectmen be and hereby are directed and
impowered to treat with, and Lease to any Person or Persons,
who may appear to hire the same ; Winnisimit Kerrey, for a term
not exceeding fifteen years, upon such Terms and Conditions as
to the Selectmen shall appear for the Interest of the Town —
or to repair the said Ferry Ways in such manner as they may
Judge most advautageious, and then to let the same upon such
conditions, as they may Judge best, not exceeding the term of
time before mentioned
A Motion was made by General Hancock relative to Beacon
Hill, but not Acted upon as the same was not inserted in the
Warrant for calling a Meeting, and the Town were of opinion,
that this matter would come with propriety before the Selectmen
[288.] The Committee of Correspondence Inspection and
Safety Reported to the Town verbally, their doings in Compliance
with late Vote respecting Prissfoners going at Large and also laid
before the Town the representation they had Made to the Honble.
the Council of this State relative to this Matter — whereupon
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be and hereby are given to
the Committee of Correspondence &c for their special Vigilance
on so important an occasion
The Committee appointed to attend the Convention at Concord,
were desired to Report their doings in Convention, at the Adjourn-
ment of this Meeting
Voted, that when this Meeting shall be Adjourned, it be to
Wednesday next 9. O. Clock A: M: for the special purposes of re-
ceiving the Report of said Committee, and that the Selectmen be
directed to Notifj" the 'Inhabitants of the Buissiuess of said Ad-
journment
The Article in the Warrant — Viz1. "To consider what allow-
ance shall be made the Assessors, for their past servicies," was
read and considered whereupon the Question was put. Viz'.
whether the Selectmen shall be Authorised to allowe to each of the
Assessors for their past Servicies, twelve Dollars p day — passed
in the Affermative unanimously
Adjourned to Wednesday next the 28 Ins'. 9. O. Clock
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
ToAvn of Boston duley qualified & Legally warned in publick
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday ye. 26th.
Day of July Anno Dom. 1779.
[289.] Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
The Inhabitants were directed to bring in their Votes for a
Moderator of this Meeting and the same having been brought in
and sorted it appeared that
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr.
was chosen
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 73
The Article in the Warrant — Viz'. — "To consider and grant
suc\\ further Sums of Money, and in such manner as may be
Judged needfull for defreying the necessary Charges of the Town
the present Year " — was read, and after due consideration
Voted, that the further Sum of Thirty thousand in addition to
the £30,000. granted the twelfth of March last, be raised by a Tax
upon Polls, and Estates within this Town for the Relief of the
Poor, and defreying other necesssary Charges arising within this
Town the ensuing Year
Then the Meeting was dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders &c bv Adjournment, from the
9th. and 26th. Instant, 9. O. Clock A: M: "
The Constables made Return on the Warrant for notefyiug the
Inhabitants of this Adjournment
The Committee appointed to Represent this Town in the Conven-
tion begun and held, [29O.] at Concord on the 14th. day of July
Instant for the purpose of carrying into effect the Measures rec-
ommended by Congress to the Inhabitants of the United States in
their late wise seasonable and animating Address — Reported as
follows, See particulars as entered at Large in the fair Quarto
Book of Town Meeting from Page 95 to 114
The Report having been read, after due consideration of the Same
the Question was put — Viz'. — Whether the Town will receive and
adopt the Resolutions and proceedings, aforesaid, and so far as is
in their Power will take ever}7 effectual Measure to carrey them
into execution — Passed in the Affermative — unanimously — also
Voted, that
Nath1. Applelon Esqr.
Edward Green
Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
Ellis Gray— Esqr.
Mr. Joseph Russell
Mr. Henry Prentice
Mr. John Sweetser
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to consider and Report
the most speedy and effectual Measures for carrying the Proceed-
ings of Convention into effect — further
Voted,
Isaac Smith Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley
Mr. Leonard Jarvis
Cap1. Isaac Sears
Mr. Higgerson
Mr. William Foster
Mr. Joseph Barrel
[291.] Cap1. John Ballard
Col°. Andrew Symms
Cap1. Gibbins Sharp
Cap'. Robert Davis
Mr. John Fenno
Mr. Nathaniel Baker
74 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
be and hereby are appointed and irapowered to affix pricies on the
Several Articles mentioned in the 4th. & 5th. Resolutions of Jhe
Convention
Voted, that when this Meeting be Adjourned, it shall be to
"Wednesday next 9. O. Clock in the Forenoon to meet at this place
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Wednesday the 4th. Day of August 9. O: Clock. Forenoon, Met
according to Adjournment
The Committee to take into consideration the most effectual and
speedy means to carry the proceedings and Resolutions of the Con-
vention at Concord into effect — Reported in part as their Opin-
ion," that whereas it is necessary that further Reduction of Prices,
should take place, and it cannot be reasonably expected, unless
the Method of Loring — [stc lowering] recommended by the Con-
vention of Concord, be fully adopted, That a Committee be ap-
pointed to apply to the Inhabitants, of this Town and earnestly,
request them, voluntarley to Subscribe as much Money as they can
possibly spare or Loan to Government, that the Necessity of fur-
ther Emissions may be prevented
[292.] The foregoing Report being read and considered the
Question was put — Viz*. — Whether the same shall be accepted
— • passed in the Affermative — also
Voted, that the Committee be directed to Report again at the
Adjournment and that Samuel Barret Esqr. be added to the Com-
mittee
Voted, that a Committee be now appoint'd to procure Subscrip-
tions for a Loan of Money to Congress, agreeable to the preceding
Vote ; and that the Substance of said Vote, be taken as the pre-
amble to the Subscription Paper
Voted, that the Committee appointed at a Body Meeting, for
the purpose of procuring Subscriptions to fortify the Harbour &c
exclusive of the Cap', of each Ward — Viz1.
Mess". John R. Sigorney } Ward
William Clough ) N°. 1
Cap'. John Lambert ) ~
Ebenezer Hancock E-qr. }
Nathaniel Fellows 1 „
Samuel Eliot j
John Cogswell ] .
Daniel Parker [ -
Thomas Hitchburne
John Pulling
Cap1. Samuel Barret
John Barret Jur.
Cap'. Job Prince Senr. ") -
M'. William Davis j
M'. Samuel Eliot j g
Cap'. Jones }
[293.] Cap*. David Spear 1 Ward
Mr. William Suttrn J N°. 9
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 75
Major John Read ) 1 ~
Col°. Thomas Dawes j
Col°. Thomas Crafts
Henry Hill Esqr. j
Cap'. Amasa Davis } 1 9
Mr. William Gooch j
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to procure Subscriptions
for a Loan to Congress agreeable to the preceeding Report and
Vote thereon
The Resolutions of the Town of Milton relative to the Proceed-
ings of the Convention at Concord, were laid before the Town,
and being read, were much approved of by the Inhabitants
The Committee appointed to affix the prises of the .several Arti-
cles mentioned in the fourth and Fifth Resolutions of the Conven-
tion of Concord, being called upon to make Report informed the
Town ; that they were not as yet able to do it, but that they had
so attended to the Buissiness Assigned them, and had made such
enquires, and taken such previous Measures for information, as
lead them to apprehend, they might be ready to Report by Tues-
day next
It being represented in this Meeting, that two Prisoners, not
upon Parole had taken their Residence at a House in ye. South
Part of the Town
Voted, that the Committee of Correspondence Inspection and
Safety be acquainted therewith, and [294.] Desired to take such
Measures as they may Judge expedient for the Security of the
Town
On a Motion made
Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to Monday next being
the 9th. Instant. 3. O: Clock Afternoon — also
Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to cause written Notifica-
tions of the Adjournment and the buissiness to be then transacted,
to be sent to the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the Town
And the Meeting was then accordingly Adjourned
Monday the 9th. of August 3. O. Clock Afternoon — met accord-
ing to Adjournment
The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. the Moderator of this Meeting,
informing the Town that he was going on a Journey and desires a
Moderator might be chosen in his room
Voted, that a Moderator Pro Tempory be now chosen by a
Hand Vote
John Scollay Esqr. was then chosen, but not being found, the
Town to prevent loss of time, proceeded to another chose, when
John Rowe Esqr. was chosen in the room of John Scollay Esqr.
Moderator Pro. Tern0.
[295.] The Committee chosen by the Town to affix pricieson
European Goods &c — Reported verbally —
That they had continued their Attention to the buissiness
assigned them, but should not be able to Report fully before —
"Wednesday next
76 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80:
The Committee appointed by the Town to consider and devise
the most effectual Measures to "carry the Resolutions of the late
Convention at Concord into effect — Reported — -which Report
being read, after some debate thereon, on a Motion made
Voted, that the forementioned Report be recommitted, and the
said Committee are desired to Report again at the Adjournment
On a Motion made — Voted, that a Committee be now chosen
to make enquirey and consider and Report to the Town at the
Adjournment of this Meeting, what they shall Judge may be best
or further necessary for the Town to do, for their security in case
of an Invasion from the Enemy
Voted, that Samuel Barret Esq1".
Col°. Thomas Dawes
Col°. Jabez Hatch
Col°. Thomas Crafts
Majr. Thomas Melvin [Melville?]
Dr. Charles Jarvis
Cap*. Amasa Davis
be a Committee for the Purpose aforesaid
On a Motion, made, Voted that this Meeting be Adjo'urned to
Thursday next 12 Ins4 . — 12. O. Clock at noon
[296.] And the Meeting was according!}' Adjourned
Thursday August 12th. — meet according to Adjournment
The Committee appointed by the Town to affix the pricies of
European Goods &c — Reported and it was Voted, that the same
should be taken up and considered, Paragraph by Paragraph —
After some debate on said Report a Motion was made and car-
ried that the Meeting be Adjourned to 3. O. Clock Afternoon
3. O. Clock, Afternoon, meet according to Adjournment
The Report of the Committee for affixing prices of European
Goods, &c was again read, and after some debate had thereon —
a Motion was made that the further consideration of the said Re-
port be referred to the Adjournment of this Meeting, which it was
proposed should be next Monday 10. O. Clock in the Forenoon —
And the Question being accordingly put — Passed in the Afferma-
tive
The Petition of a number of the Inhabitants of this Town,
Butchers, Tanners, Leather Dressers, Tallow Chandlers and Soap
Boilers, praying that the Town would enter upon some speedy
Measures for the introduction of live Stock, so that the Butch-
ering business may be again carried on in this Town as also
the other branches of Manufacturers [297.] Which have been
driven from us to the Neighbouring Towns, to their no small
benefit, and the great loss and damage of the Inhabitants of this
Town, and offering their service, in going into the Country for
Cattle & — was read, and after some debate and consideration
Voted, that the further consideration of this Petition be refferred
to a Committee, who are desired to make Report at the Adjourn-
ment of this Meeting
BOSTON Towx RECORDS, 1779. 11
Voted, that Thomas Crafts Esqr.
Caleb Davis Esqr.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Mr. William Davis
Cap'. John Ballard
Mr. Leouard Jarvis
Mr. Shubael Hews
be a Committee for the purpose
The confession of one Everet of Roxbury who had violated the
late Regulations of the Convention, in this Town, by bringing un-
merchantable Meat into the Town and with a Letter from the
Selectmen of Roxbury, transmitting the same were read
The Committee appointed "• to devise means for the further se-
curiety and defence of the Town, in case of an Invasion" — Re-
ported and the same having been read, a Motion was made and
carried that said Report be recommitted
[298.] Adjourned to Monday next being the 16th. of August
Ins'. 9. O. Clock in the Forenoon
Monday 9. O. Clock in the Forenoon meet according to Adjourn-
ment
The Committee appointed to enquire what is further necessary
to be done by the Town for, their security in case of Invasion have
attended that service and beg leave — To Report — That great
part of the Arms quoted in the .Schedule delivered to the Com-
mittee as put into the Hands of the Melitia Officers of the Town,
were delivered to several Persons who from time to time went
into the Publick service, as the Town quota or Draught of Men
for one Department and another and are not returned and in gen-
eral they were very bad Arms and many of them burst in the
Try all, they therefore recomend to the Town to direct the Select-
men to make immediate Application to the Honblc. Council of the
State for a Loan of Such Arms as Col°. Hatch shall report are
Still defflcient the same to be put into his Hands to be delivered
from time to time as there ,may be occasion for the immediate de-
fence of this Town, to his Officers for the use of such Persons in
their respective Companies as are not able to procure Arras for
themselves to be returned in the Fall
That Col°. Hatch is of Opinion that the fixed amunition men-
tioned in the aforesaid Schedule is in possession of his several
Officers [299.] That He has taken a List of it and will ascertain
the Quantity and where deposited
Your Committee are of Opinion that it would be enestimable
service in case of Invasion and therefore wish to have it recom-
mended by the Town to a number of Gentlemen who have been in
the Continental and State Artillery Service to form themselves
into an Association or Independant Corps for the purpose of tak-
ing such command rendering such service as may be Assigned
them, and also that one or more Companies of Artillery be raised
from among the Masters of Vessells, and other Inhabitants for
the defence of the Town, and put under immediate Discipline
They further Reported that it be Recomended to give Orders
78 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
for presenting all Persons who shall neglect to Equip themselves,
or to attend the Millitary Musters to the utmost extent of the
Law
They also earnestly recommend to such Gentelmen who have
hitherto Neglected Military Duty to turn out in their Several
Wards that all Companies may equal those whose accomplish-
ments in the Military Art while they reflect the highest Honour on
them must be productive of the most Assential Service in time of
Danger
All which is humbly Submitted
SAMUEL BARRETT Chairman
[3OO.] The foregoing Report having been read and con-
sidered Paragraph by Paragraph, the Question was put u Whether
the Report as it now stands amended be accepted — passed in the
Affermative — also
Voted, that Cap'. Gustavus Fellows
Col°. Thomas Dawes
Col°. Thomas Crafts
Col°. Nathaniel Barber
Cap*. Diamond Moreton
Cap1. Job Prince
Cap'. Daniel Martin
be ana hereby are appointed a Committee to endeavour the
obtaining such Associations as are reff erred to in the two foregoing
Articles, and also the carrying the other Articles of said Report
into effect
On a Motion
Voted, that the Selectmen be requested to make further enquiry
into the disposal of eighty Fire Arms delivered by them to the
Militia Officers of this Town, and five hundred eighty seven
delivered to Col°. Edward Procter by order from the Selectmen
aforesaid on the Board of War, sometime in May 1777 which
667 Arms were delivered by the said Board of War, pursuant to
a Resolve of the General Court of May 6th. 1777 — the Selectmen
to Report how many of the said Arms are now in the Town, and
where deposited ; and how the others were disposed of ; also to
make an enquirey relative to a Number of Cartridges delivered
to the Militia Officers being part of the Town Stock
[3O1.] The Committee appointed to affix the Pricies of the
Several Articles mentioned in the 4th. and 5th. Resolves of the
Convention held at Concord July 14th. 1779 Reported
Whereas the Goods and wares imported from Europe are so
various in their kinds and qualities as to render it quite impracti-
cable to determine the exact Price at which every Article ought
to sold and it is necessary the Pricies of those kinds of Goods,
should be reduced in the same proportion as the West India
Imports
Therefore Resolved that all Holders and Retailers of Europian
Wares and Merchandize shall from time to time forward sell all
such Articles at twenty pC'. or one fifth part less than the Prices
at which the same Articles were sold in the Month of July last,
that being the avarige deduction in the Prices of West India Goods
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 79
And in Order that the aforegoing Resolve may be more
effectually com ply ed with, and that all those who wish to enrich
themselves at the Expence of their Neighbours, and who on all
Occasions are disposed to take Advantage of our Friends in
the Country may be prevented in future from Preying upon their
more worthy fellow citizens and Country Bretheren
Be it Resolved, that William Cooper Esqr. Mr. Gibbens Sharp,
Cap'. Isaac Phillips, Col°. Edward Procter, Cap*. Gustavus Fellows
Major Thomas Melvill, Mr. Henrv Prentice, Mr. William Hoskins
[3O2.] Cap1. Alexr. Willson Dr.*Nath'. Noyes Mr. Saimiel Rug-
gles, Mr. Joshua Pulling and Dr. Charles Jarvis, be a CommitU-e
with whom may be lodg'd Complaints of all Violations and eva-
sions of the above Resolve, who are hereby impowered and directed
to enquire into all Such complaints and to Publish the Names of
those who upon good and Satisfactory Evidence may be convicted
of Violating or evading said Resolves, as Enemies to their Country
as they ma}- be delt with according to their Demerit and all Per-
sons whether from the Town or Country, who may think themselves
imposed upon by any Person in the Town in not Complying with
the aforegoing Resolve are hereby desired to lodge a Complaint
with aforementioned Committee that the Matter may be enquired
into
Resolved that the. following Prices for Labourers and Manu-
factures &c. be the highest that shall be demanded or given for
the future Labourers 60/ p Day they finding themselves Ship-
Carpenters, Carpenters, caulkers, Riggers Ship Joiners House-
wrights and Masens 78/ p Day they finding themselves — Black-
smiths Block makers, Carvers, Cabinet makers Peiwtarers shall
reduce their Prices at Least 10 p C'. from the Preasent Prices —
Printers Ropemakers Boat Builders Coopers Cordwainers and Tin-
men shall reduce their Prices at least twenty pc from the Present
Prices — Saillmakers shall not have more than £l .8/ p Bolt for work-
ing New Canvas and for old Work in Proportion [3O3.] Tanners
18/ p Pound for Sole Leather and other Leather in proportion —
Leather Dressers for a pr. Dearskin Breeches of the very best sort
— £35 and other Articles in proportion — Hatters for best Beaver
Halts £35. beaveretts £24 and felt Hatts£4 each, Barbers and hair
Dressers shall reduce their Prices from the present rates at least
15/ Tailors shall not have more than £18 p Suit for plain Cloaths
£22. 10/ for half trimed, and other Work in proportion —
Painters shall reduce their Prices from the present rate 15 p C'.
Ship Chandlers shall reduce their prices from the present Rate
20 p C'. execept Pitch which shall not exceed £35 p Barrell and
Tar and Turpentine £30. each Truckman for truckage of a Large
Hogshead of Sugar 18/ Molasses Rurn &c 15/ tierces 9/ Barrel 4/
by the Load and Other Work in proportion — Wharfingers for
Wharfage, Cording, Sealing and carrying off Wood £3. 12/ p Cord
Farriers for Shoeing a Horse all round £6 and for shifting a set of
Shoes 48/ — Refined Iron £37. 10/ p C'. Card makers £36 p doz".
for Cards and G6/ a single pair. Glaziers for setting Glass and
finding the putty shall not have more than 4/ 6 p square, Inholders
and Victuallers shall reduce their Prices of Victualling and Horse
80 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Keeping in proportion to the Reduction of the Prices of Provisions
and Hay — Hucksters shall not take more than Six-pence advance
upon the shilling — Fishmongers shall not take more than 12d. p
pound for Cod, 3d. for Haddock and I/ 3 for Hallybut, without
entrails, Goldsmiths shall not demand of the Purchaser no more
than the weight of the Plate they Manufacture and twenty Times
what they had for their Labour in Manufacturing before the year
1775 [3O4.J All Other Tradesmen not mentioned shall reduce
their Prices in an Average proportion with those of their Bretheren,
and the Article of Consumption
ISAAC SMITH p Order
Which Report having been read and taken up, Paragraph by
Paragraph the Question was put Viz'. Whether such Report as
amended by the said Town be accepted passed in the Affermative
and so far as relates to regulating prices of Goods unanimously
Adjourned to 5. O. Clock P.M.
5. OClock Met according to Adjournment A Committee Ap-
pointed to consider and report the most effectual and Speedy
Measures for carrying the Resolves of the Convention and of the
Town into Effect reported as follows
Whereas the carrying into effect the Resolutions of the Conven-
tion at Concord and the subsequent Resolves of this Town in Con-
formity thereto is of the last importance to the Community and
the Violation of them in the present scituation of Publick Affairs a
crime of the deepest dye
Voted, that any Person directly or indirectly either b}- himself
or any Person for and under him who shall buy or sell, or Offer to
give or take an higher price at publick Market or private Sale or
who may withhold any Article except from Persons who may be
Inhabitants of such places as have not Adopted simaler measures
or in any [3O5.] Other Way whatever Violate the said Resolu-
tions shall have his or her Names Published by the Committee
hereafter Appointed in the News Papers in this Town that the
Publick knowing may Abstain from all Trade And Conversation
with them and the People at Large inflict upon them that Punish-
ment which such Wretches deserve to trade or hold any intercourse
or conversation with such Persons
Voted, that it is the duty of every Citizen to keep a Vigilant
Eye upon his Neighbour that Any inf rindgemeuts upon the Resolu-
tions aforesaid may be prevented and where it may unhappely
take place to give immediate information to the Committee,
Appointed to receive such Complaints
Voted, that William Cooper Esqr. Deacon Gibbens Sharp,
Cap1. Isaac Phillips, Col°. Edwd. Procter, Cap'. Gustavus Fellows,
Majr. Thomas Melvill, Mr. Henry Prentice, Mr. William Hoskins,
Cap'. Alexr. Wilson Docf. Nath1. Noyes, Mr. Sam1. Ruggles,
Cap'. John Pulling and Docf. Charles Jarvis, be a Committee for
the purpose aforesaid, In as much as sending Servants to the
Market Ferries to the Neck, and to the Neighbouring Towns with
discretionary Orders has a direct tendency to counteract the
Resolves of the Convention and of this Town
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 81
Therefore it is repeatedly and especially Resolved that if any
Person who shall by his Servant or any Person under him presume
either directly or indirectly to Offer or give either in Town [3O6.]
Or out of it for any Article of Consumption an higher Price than
is Stipulated therefore in the Resolves aforesaid incure the higest
Resentment of the People and be proceeded against as in the first
preceeding Resolves, And the Committee of Twelve Appointed to
Aid the Civil Magistrate in the Execution of the Monopoly Act,
are hereby appointed a Committee to Advance and Assist the
Committee of thirteen aforesaid in carrying this Resolve into the
fullest Execution
The Committee further Report that the Inhabitants in all their
Purchases of Meat, buy by the Pound and not by the quarter as
the latter Mode is an Inlet to great evasions and may elude the
salutary Purpose in View
That it be earnestly recommended to the Committee of the
Neighbouring Towns to Meet together as Speedialy as possible at
any Town which they may think proper to fix the Prices which
Vegetables and other Articles not already regulated as usually
brought to this Market shall be sold and delivered in -this Town
and make returne to the Committee of the State Convention in
order that the same may be Published for the Goverment of its
Inhabitants
NATHANIEL APPLETON p Order
The foregoing Report having been considered and amended, it
was Voted unanimously that the Town do accept the same
On a Motion Voted, that the foregoing Report and the preceed-
ing Report relative to affixing [3O7.] Prices be printed in the
Thursdays Papers ; and that the same be also printed in hand
Bills as also the Prices of Articles affexed by the Convention, and
disposed among the Inhabitants of this Town.
Voted, that the Town Clerk be requested to print the foregoing
Votes in the Thursdays Papers
The Committee appointed on the Petition of severell Butchers
and others. Reported and agreeable to said Report
Voted, that Shops or Stalls be opened in the Severell parts of
the Town for supplying the Inhabitants with Butchers Meat
Voted, that part of the Stalls in Faneuil Hall Market be alloted
to the Butchers of the Town under such regulations as the Select-
men shall direct
Voted, that all the Hides and Tallow belonging to the Creatures
slaughtered in the Town be disposed of to the Inhabitants who
manufactur'd the same for sale
To prevent Slaughter Houses being set up in such Places as may
be a Neusence to the Inhabitants — Voted, that no such Houses
be improved untill approbation is obtained therefor from the
Selectmen
Voted, that for the encouragement of any Person or Persons
who will undertake the Butchers buissiness and open a Shop or
Stall in this [3O8.] Town for the selling of Beef Mutton or
Lamb ; the Inhabitants engage to give the preference to such
Butchers in their purchasing of Meat ; also that those Butchers
82 CITY DOCUMENT ]STo. 80.
shall have every other encouragement Aid an Assistance from the
Inhabitants which is in their Power to afford them.
Voted, that upon application of any Person or Persons who are
or may become Inhabitants, who shall undertake the Butchers
Buissiness in the Town, for a recommendation to the Farmers to
purchase live Stock, the Selectmen approving of them are desired
to give recommendations accordingly
Adjourned to Tuesday next being the 17th. Inst. 11. O. Clock
Forenoon
Tuesday 11. O. Clock Forenoon Met according to Adjournment
Whereas Col°. Thomas Chase D Quarter Masr. General has repre-
smted to this Meeting, that he had agreed with a Number of
Teamsters for the Publick service, at the rate of eighteen shil-
lings a Mile; and that several Persons had offered to the same
Teamstears a much higher price, which is not only to the great
damage and Detrement of the service, but has a direct tendency
to counteract the Measures taken for establishing the Currency
— whereupon
Voted, that Col°. Chase be desired to make thorough inquirey
respecting this Matter and [3O9.] Give information of the facts
and Persons to the Committee of Thirteen that those Offenders
may be proceeded with agreeable to the Resolves of the Town
Voted, that it be earnestly recommended to the publick Spirited
Merchants of this Town, that they continue their utmost exertions,
to procure as great a Sum to be loned to Government, as can
possibly be obtained, considering how much depends upon the
success of this measure
On a Motion made, Voted, that the last paragraph, in the Re-
port of the Committee for affexing prices as it respects Lumber
and Wood be not printed
Voted, that the Committee Appointed to procure Loans in the
several Wards who have not made their Reports be desired to do
it immediately
On a Motion
Voted, That this Town in conformity to the recommendation of
the late Convention at Concord, will appoint Delagates for the
Purposed Convention to meet at Concord in October next ; and
the Selectmen are directed to call a Meeting in Season for this
Purpose
Then the Meeting was dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston who1 are Free and twenty one years of age at
Faneuil Hall the 12th. Day of August Anno Domini 1779
[31O.] Warrant for calling Meeting — read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw, and bring in their
Votes for a Moderator and the same being brought in and sorted,
it appeared, that
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr.
was chosen Moderator of this Meeting unanimously
The Resolve of the General Court relative to the forming a new
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 83
Constitution or Form of Government for the People of this
State — was read
A Motion made that the consideration of the number of Dela-
gates to be chosen for the Convention to set at Cambridge for the
Sole purpose of framing a New Constitution, be referred over to
the Adjournment of this Meeting — And the Question being ac-
cordingly put — Passed in the Aff ermative
It was then moved and carried that this Meeting be Adjourned
to Monday next being the 16th. Day of August 3. O. Clock in the
Afternoon then to meet in this Place
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Monday August 16th. 1779 — 3. O. Clock P: M:
Met according to Adjournment
[311.] General Hancock the Moderator of this Meeting
having acquainted the Town that he was by sickness prevented
from giving his attendance ; the Inhabitants were directed to
withdraw and bring in their Votes for a Moderator Pro. Tern0,
and the same having been brought in and sorted, it appeared that
Isaac Smith Esqr.
was chosen
The Town having taken into consideration what number of Del-
agates shall be chosen for the Convention at Cambridge, it was
Voted, that twelve Persons be chosen to Represent this Town in
said Convention
On a Motion made
Voted, that the Poll for the advice of Delagates, be closed at
6. O.CIock
The Vote being brought in for twelve Delagates, and counted,
it appeared that only Ten were chosen Viz1.
The Honble. James Bowdoin Esqr. 187
The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. 192
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr. 185
The Honble. Oliver Wendell Esqr. 189
Nath1. Appleton Esqr. .165
Thomas Daws Esqr. 137
Ellis Gray Esqr. 148
John Lowell Esqr. 141
Samuel A. Otis Esqr. 119
Dr. Charles Jarvis 133
[312.] The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring
in their Votes for two more Delagates and the same being brought
in and sorted, it appeared that only one was chosen Viz'.
Ebenezer Storer Esqr.
Adjourned to to Morrow Morning 10. O.CIock A: M:
Tuesday the 17th. Day of August 10. O.CIock Forenoon — Met
according to Adjournment
Mr. Storer chosen yesterday one of the Delagates having de-
sired, that he might be excused from serving in that place — the
Question was accordingly put — which passed in the Negative
The Inhabitants having been desired to withdraw and bring in
84 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
their Votes for one other Delagate, and the same having been
brought in and sorted, it appeared, that
Samuel Barret Esqr.
was chosen
Voted, that the Delagates aforementioned, be and hereby are
Instructed to Cause a printed Copy of the Form of a Constitution,
they may agree upon in Convention, to be transmitted to the Se-
lectmen of each Town ; and the Committee of each Plantation ; to
be by them laid before their Respective Towns and Plantations
for their Consideration, in order to its being approved or dis-
proved, and other wise acted upon pursuant to a late Resolve of
the General Court of this State
[313.] Then the Meeting was dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in publick Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall Sepr. 3d. 1779. 10. O.Clock A.M.
Warrant for calling Meeting — read
On a Motion, Voted, that a Moderator of this Meeting be chosen
by a Hand Vote"
John Rowe Esqr.
was accordingly chosen Moderator of this Meeting
The Committee of Thirteen appointed by the Town to inforce
the Regulations of the late Convention &c — having acquainted
the Inhabitants of their proceedings with respect to Cap*. Alex-
ander Mackay as a Violater of said Resolutions ; and also laid
before them his late Publication, which greatly reflects on said
Committee — A Motion was made that the said Alexander Mackay
be required to give his attendance at this Meeting which passed in
the Affermative
The Article in the Warrant. Viz'. — To consider of the Petition
of a number of the Inhabitants setting forth, that they are appre-
hensive that the greatest, distress imaginable must soon take place
from the scarciety of Fire Wood ; and therefore [314.] Request-
ing, that application may be made as soon as possible to the
Honble. the Council of this State, that Convoys may be appointed
for the encouragement and securitey of the Coasters and others
who bring that Article to this Market ; or to take such other
measures therein as may be Judged proper — was read, and after
some debate, it was moved, and
Voted, that a Committee be appointed to take this matter into
consideration, and Report to the Town what they apprehend best
to be done thereon
Voted, that Col°. Sears
Joseph Barrel
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
• Mr. John Sweetser
Cap1. John Ballard
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
On a Motion made
Voted, that the Committee for stating the prices of Merchandize
&c be desired to Report their doings at the Adjournment
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 85
Alexander Mackay appeared ; and the Committee of Thirteen,
and said Mackay having been fully heard — the Question was put
Viz'. — Whether it appears to this Town that the Committee in
publishing the Name of Alexander. Mackay as an Enemy to his
Country, were well founded with respect to facts ; and that they
have acted therein with fidelity and a due concern for the Publick
interest — Passed in the Affermative
[315.] The Committee relative to Fire Wood laid their Re-
port on the Table — On a Motion Adjourned to 3. O. Clock - - -
Afternoon
3. O: Clock P. M. met according to Adjournment
The Publication of Alexander Mackey being again taken up
Voted, Nem°. Coue. That it is the Opinion, of the Town that
the Peice Signed Alexander Mackay and Published in Willis's
Paper of last Thursday, is a false infamous and Malicious Libel
on a respectable Committee of this Town, and this Town resent
the Writing and Publishing of said Libel as affrontive to them —
also
Voted, Nem°. Conde. that this and the proceeding Vote respect-
ing Alexander Mackay be published in the several News Papers,
that the good People of this State may consider the said Mackay
as deserving the full punishment Assign'd such Offenders in their
late Resolves
The Report of the Committee relative to Fire-Wood was again
read, and considered Paragraph by Paragraph — and after longe
debate
Voted, that the Inhabitants and Wharfingers be desired, not to
give more than sixty Dollars p Cord for Wood brought to this
Market, and that the Wharfingers who have Wood, be desired not
to dispose of more than two loads to one Person at a time
[316.] Voted, that the Distillers be earnestl}' requested im-
mediately to distill ye. Cisterns they now have working, and are
no longer to distill any more untill the Town is supplied with that
very Article and that a Committee be appointed to see what
quantity of Wood is now in the hands of the Distillers, and
Report immediately
On a Motion the further consideration of the forementioned
Report was referred to the Adjournment
Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourn'd to Tuesday next 9.
O: Clock. Forenoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Thursday the 9th. Day of September 9. O: Clock. Forenoon met
according to Adjournment but no Bells having been rung, and but
few Inhabitants attending the Meeting was further Adjourned to
3. O. Clock Afternoon
3. O: Clock Afternoon the Town met according to Adjournment
John Rowe Esq. in the Chair
The Inhabitants being Informed that the Town Clerk was by
Sickness prevented from giving his Attendance
86 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Mr. Samuel Ruggles
was appointed Town Clerk Pro. Tern0.
The Committee at this Meeting Reported the quantity of Wood
in the hands of the Distillers .
[317.] The Town entered on a further consideration of the
Report of the Committee i-elative to Fire- Wood, whereupon
Voted, that the Selectmen be desired to appoint two or more
Persons to Measure all the Wood carreying into this Town by
Land, who shall give to every Teamster a Ticket as has been
usual heretofore ; — the Purchaser to pay for measuring
Voted, that the Distillers be permitted to import what Wood
they may have occasion for provided they do not interfere with
the common course of supply by Coasters who usually supply this
Market, nor purchase of the Country People bringing in their
Wood by Land — also
Voted, That Wood from the Eastward should not be at a higher
price then sixty Dollars a Cord — but in as much as our Bretheren
who supply us by Water from that Quarter, run great hazard it
was further
Voted, that twelve hundred Dollars be paid to the Persons, that
shall bring into this Town the greatest quantity of Cord Wood,
from this Time to the First Day of April next — And one Thou-
sand Dollars to the next largest Importer — to be paid them by the
Town Treasurer, upon Certificate being produced, from the Select-
men of this Town — And that it be recommended to the Wharfin-
gers that they supply BO single Familey with more than two Cord
at a time untill the Town is better supplied
[318.] It was then moved that a Large Committee be ap-
pointed to prevent Wood, Meat &c &c from being ingrossed,
before it entered the Town, but it being dark the consideration
thereof, and some other Affairs of importance mentioned by the
Moderator, which comes under the Article in the Warrant — Viz1.
— To consider whether any further steps shall be taken for the
better supply of this Market with the Necessaries of Life, was
refferred over to the next Town Meeting then to be acted upon if
the Town should Judge proper
Then the Meeting was Dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in publick Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneauiel Hall on Thursday the 14th. Day
of September 1779 — 9. O. Clock A: M
The Precept and Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
The Question was then put Viz1. Whether the Town will now
proceed, agreeable to the Precept read, to Elect and Depute one
Person to Represent them in the Great and General Court or
Assembly now convened at the State House in Boston in the Room
of the Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. who has been Elected, to and
taken a Seat at the Honble. Board " — and the same passed in the
Negative
[319.] The Town having Voted, not to come to the choice
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 87
of a Representative in the room of Mr. Adams — A Motion was
then made that a Moderator be now chosen that the Town may
proceed to consider and determine upon the other Articles in the
Warrant
The Inhabitants having withdrawn and brought in their Votes
for a Moderator
It Appeared that
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
was chosen unanimously
The Town Clerk being detained at home by sickness
Mr. Elisha Avery
was chosen Clerk Pro. Tern".
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. " To take into consideration
a Representation of the Hattmakers of the Town, setting forth
the difficulties they Labour under on Account of the price fixed
to Beaver Hatts, and the reasonableness of an alteration in that
Article" — was read, and after some debate had thereon — a
Motion was made that the Hattmakers have leave to withdraw
their Petition — and the Question being put — Passed in the
Affermative
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. — To consider and determine
upon some effectual Measures to prevent the pernicious practice
of Persons going on the Neck and at the Ferry and [32O.]
There purchasing Provisions by means whereof the Inhabitants
in general are prevented being supplied therewith — was read,
whereupon
Voted, that Cap*. Samuel Hendley
Cap1. Amasa Davis
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
be a Committee to take said Articles into Consideration and
Report thereon
The Article in the Warrant relative to the choice of Delagates
for the Convention to be held at Concord, being read — it was
determined by the Town, that Seven Persons shall be chose to
Represent them in said Convention
Adjourned to 3. 0: Clock Afternoon
3. 0. Clock Afternoon Met according to Adjournment
The Committee appointed to consider of some Method to
prevent Persons going on the Neck and over the Ferry, to
purchase Provisions Report
That two Persons be stationed at the Fortification near the
Neck, and two Persons at Charlestown Ferrey, who will be
directed to use every proper Method to prevent Persons going
over the Neck and passing Charlestown Ferrey in Order to
purchase Provisions, bringing to Market which Persons to
continue on said Duty Untill the Selectmen shall Judge it
unnecessary
SAM : HENLEY p Order
[321.] The Foregoing Report having been read and con-
sidered— the Question was put — Whether the same be accepted
— Passed in the Affermative
88 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Voted, that Mr. Benja. EUes
Mr. William Hoskins
Cap1. John Ballard
be a Committee to prepare a List of twenty Persons to be Stationed
at the Fortification and Charlestown Ferry in Rotation to prevent
Persons going out of Boston to purchase Provisions
The Town having brought in their Votes for Seven Delagates,
it appeared that
John Howe Esqr.
Isaac Sears Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
Cap'. Amasa Davis —
Samuel Barrel Esqr.
Cap1. John Ballard
were chose Mr. Leonard Jarvis
Ezekiel Price Esqr. (excused
Isaac Smith Esqr.
were chosen Delagates to Represent the Town at the Convention
to be held at Concord on Wednesday the (>th. of October next,
then and there with such Committies as may be sent by Other
Towns, to take into consideration the Prices of Merchandize and
Country Produce and to do those things that may be necessary for
carrying into effect such measures as have been recommended by
Congress in their late Address and [322.] The Resolutions and
Proceedings of the People of this Town in consequence of said
Address at their several Meetings
On a Motion made
Voted, that a Committee be chosen to go into the Country to
consult within the several Towns upon some Measures for the
better supplying the Town with Provisions
Voted, that Col°. Isaac Seers
Mr. Ebenezer Dorr
, Mr. Samuel Breck
Mr. Enoch Brown
Cap'. Alexander Willson
Mr. Leonard Jarvis
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Voted, that the following Persons he the Committee to attend
at the Fortification and Charlestown Ferry in Rotation, two at
each place dayly, for the purposes of preventing People going out
of Town to purchase Provisions Viz'.
North End
Cap'. John Pulling
Mr. Nathaniel Hitchburne
Cap'. John Ballard
Mr. John Richardson
Deacon Sharp
John R. Sigorney
Francis Shaw Esqr.
John Kennedy
John Kneeland
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779.
[323.] Moses Grant
Ephraim Copeland
Foster Condy
South End
Benjamin Edes
Norton Brailsford
Adam Colsou
Joseph Shed
Joseph Levering
Thomas Uran
Majr. Thomas Melvil
Cap'. Nath1 Curtis
Christ0. Clarke
William Fallas
Thomas Thompson
Isaac Pierce
Then the Meeting was Dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in publick Town
Meeting atFaneiuel Hall Tuesday the 21'. Day of September 1779
3. O: Clock Afternoon
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
The Inhabitants having brought in their Votes for a Moderator
of this Meeting and the same being sorted, it appeared, that
[324.] The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr.
was chosen unanimously
The Committee appointed to go into the Country, Reported partly
in Writing b}- Col°. Sears and Mr. Dorr, and partly verbally by
Cap'. Willson, and Mr. Edes, whereby it appeared that the Town
may expect a Good supply of Provisions from the Country Towns,
and that it would be well they should have Sugar and Rum as
wanted — that the Country People Apprehend that some Mer-
chants and Shopkeepers in the dry Goods way, have withheld or
raised the prices of those Articles of Merchandize, and that they
are also under apprehensions with respect to the consequencies
from such Quantities of Goods, being sent to Connecticut or sold
to the Freeholders of that State
< The Question was then put ' ' Whether these Reports be accepted
— Passed in the Affermative unanimously
Voted, that a Committee be appointed "to take the afore-
mentioned Report into consideration, and Report at the Adjourn-
ment, what they apprehend are the proper steps to be taken, in
order to support the Regulations : and that
Mr. Thomas Walley
Ellis Gray Esqr-
Richard Devens Esqr.
James Bowdoin Junr. Esqr.
Cap'. Amasa Davis
Mr. John Lucas
Mr. Leonard Jarvis
be a Committee for that purpose
90 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
[325.] On a Motion
Voted, that a Committee be appointed to apply to such Mer-
chants Shopkeepers, Distillers, and others as withhold their Goods
from Sale, as also to such Merchants as Ask for or sell their
Wares at more than the regulated prices, and to inform them,
that they must strictly comply with the Regulations or have their
Names returned to the Town or the Committee of Thirteen
Voted, that
Col°. Isaac Sears
Cap1. Willson
Mr. Leonard Jarvis
Cap'. John Ballard
Mr. Enoch Brown
Mr. Benjamin Edes
Mr. William Hoskins
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
be a Committee for the Purpose aforesaid
And said Committee are also directed to waite upon the Conti-
nental Agents, and all the whole Sale Merchants and Trader's
together with the Distillers, and request of them an1 Account of
the Goods and Merchandize they have sold since the Regulations
were come into, the Names of the Purchasers, and the Quantities
sold them with the prices, and also that they do not make Sale of
more than on hhd of Sugar to any one Person, and such only as
usually sell those Articles in this Town or State, except to Sugar
Bakers, who shall bona fide declare, that what they purchased is
for boiling only and not for Sale
[326.] The Town being acquainted that some Persons of
Bilrica had sold Rye Bread in Boston at a higher rate than the
regulated price and White Esqr. of Bilrica being in this
Meeting
Voted, that the said Mr. White be desired to use his Influence
with the Committee of his Town, that instead of Bread the People
of that Town would send their Grain or Meal to this Market for
the .supply of the Inhabitants at this time of scarcity
On a Motion Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to publish
and Advertizernent acquainting the Publick that Slaughter Houses
are provided by the Town for the accommodation of the People in
the Country who may send their Creatures to this Market for the
Supply of the Inhabitants
On a Motion Voted, that the Town will countenance and sup-
port all those who shall give information to the Committee of thir-
teen of any Violations of the Regulations
Adjourned to Thursday next being the 23d. Day of September
Ins*. 3. O.Clock Afternoon
Thursday the 23d. Day of September 3. O.Clock Afternoon met
according to Adjournment
The Honourable Samuel Adams Esqr. the Moderator of this
Meeting, having acquainted the Town that he was prevented from
giving his Attendance — the Inhabitants were directed to bring in
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 91
their Votes for a Moderator Pro. Tern0, and the same being
brought in & sorted it appeared that
[327.] Ezekiel Price Esqr.
was chosen
Col°. Sears Chairman of the Committee appointed to waite upon
the Merchants, Traders and Distillers, and Cap'. Willson another
of the Committee being at the Meeting Reported in part ; and
were desired to Report again at the Adjournment of the Meeting
— Ezekiel Price Esqr. having desired to be excused from serving
on the foreraentioned Committee, he was accordingly excused, and
it was
Voted, that Deacon Freeman
Mr. Isaac Pierce
Mr. John Kneeland
Mr. Joseph Shed
John Lucas Esqr.
be added to the Committee
Voted, that the above Committee make inquirey who have got
Salt, and New England Rum, and not only as to what the Dis-
tillers, have by them, but also for whom they distilled Rum, and
the quantity distilled
The Report of the Committee to inforce the Regulations &c was
laid before the Town
On a Motion — Voted, that
Mr. Enoch Brown
Mr. Samuel Brick
Mr. Thomas Dennie -
be a Committee to confer with Mnjr. Ruggles and Others with re-
spect to what may be the best Method [328.] To be taken with
the Cattle and Sheep which are coming into this Town upon the
Hoof, for the supply of the Inhabitants — and Report their
opinion at the Adjournment
On a Motion made Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to
Monday next the 27th. Day of Septemr. 3. O. Clock Afternoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Monday the 27th. Day of September 3. O. Clock Afternoon —
Met according to Adjournment
The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. the Moderator of this Meeting
and Ezekiel Price Esqr. chosen Moderator Pro. Tern6, being en-
gaged in such buissiness as prevents the Attendance of either of
them — the Inhabitants were therefore directed to withdraw and
bring m their Votes for a Moderator Pro. Tern*, and the same
being brought in and sorted, it appear'd that
John Rowe Esqr.
was chosen
The Committee to wait upon the Merchants, Traders, Distillers
&c — Report
That the}' have waited upon several Merchants and as many
Shopkeepers as the time Assigned them would admit — that
Mess". Bruce Pierce Somes, Fellows, Prentice &c. will strictly
adhere to the Regulating Act — Mr. John Mollineux told us that
92 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
he was obliged to consult his Brother William, whome we met soon
after, & were treated by him with indelicate Language the effect
of high passion
[329.] Deacon Mason and Mr. Joseph Barrel will retail their
Goods as regulated, but are not disposed to sell by whole Sale —
Jonathan Amory will do the same, but us to rendering an Account
of Goods sold by whole sale he must think of it
Missrs. Whitwell Biggelow, Winslow, the said Barrel Kneelaud
Prentice Joseph Pierce, Davis. J Coolidge and Mr. Cams Baker,
Houghton, Brown, Ford, Jonsey are Shopkeepers who have con-
formed and mean to continue selling — M™. Molly Williams
replys, she cannot determin whether she will conform, as the
Merch'8. have raised their Goods, — M". Curies answered, that
she did not know, whether she should sell at the regulated prices
or no — many Stores were called upon the Owners not within —
waited upon the Agents, Viz1. Cap1. Bradford Mess". Brown and
Varnum — Messrs. Clark and Nightingale, from whom we have
received Account of Sales — Called upon the Distillers with the
Town Resolves — Messrs. Barret and Hall, Johonnot, Hill,
Perkins, Hoskins, Amory, Fellows, Bryant, Porter, Cable —
Joseph Pierce, Senr. & Junr. Scollay, Wells, Rand, Bradsliaw
and Parker, Hall Larkin, Hendley Clark & Sloon from some of
whom we have returns made of Stock on hand
Mr. James Perkins not in Town, the Foreman says he has on
hand 21 hhds Molasses 4 — or 500 Gall0. Rum and 10 Cisterns set
We find after strict inquirey and candid answers from the
Distillers, there is not that quantity of Rum and Molasses the
Town might have [33O.] Supposed — With regard to Salt — cm
Bells Wharf, at Robins Store are 12 Casks said to be the property
of Mr. King
Mess". Hubbards and Green will supply the Town with 150
bushels Salt. Mess". Wheelwright and Barnard with 23 Bushels
Salt Cap1. Ketchum with 200 Bush8., Pitts and Call — with 2
hhds., D°. Isaac Smith Esqr. with 10 or 15 bush1, occaisonly —
Mr. Thomas Russell will supply 500 Gall8. Rum
The Article of Cotton Wool is explained by the Naval Officer
Majr. Barber
The Committee agreed with Cap*. Law of Brigg*. Neassity
September 24th. for 700 bush8. Turk3. Island and 1300 bushels
Caidz Salt at nine pounds to be delivered the 27th. Upon applica-
tion for delivery of some — Cap'. Law replied he had Sold it, to
Cap'. Ketchup and Mr. Cook
The foregoing Report having been read, after some considera-
tion the Question was put — Viz1. Whether the Town approve of
this Report so far as the Committee have proceeded — Passed in
the Affermative
On a Motion the — Question was put — "Whether the Report
be recommitted — Passed in the Negative
On a Motion made Voted that it is the Sense of the Town that
no Salt, Flour & Grain shall be sold, unless by retail, untill,
it shall be Offered to the Town Committee for purchasing said
Articles
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 93
[331.] On a Motion Voted, that Mr. Love and Cap'. Kitchen,
be desired -to Attend the Town Meeting at the Adjournment
Voted, that the Meeting be Adjourned to to Morrow Morning —
'and the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
September 28. 9. OClock Forenoon Met according to Adjourn-
ment
Mr. Brown and Mr. Sumner being in the Meeting were desired
to inform the Town respecting the Salt on board Cap': Loves
Vessel — they according gave information, that Six hhds : of the
Salt of Nineteen hhds : on the Wharff last Evening, were removed
from the Wharff last Night
Mr. Cook being in the Meeting acquainted the Inhabitants, that
the Six hhds : of Salt said to be taken from the Wharff, were
rolled into a Store, and would be forth coming
Cap4. Kitchen being in the Meeting was asked whether he would
Sell his Salt to the Town whether in Store or without only reserv-
ing 100 hhds for his own use — on which he gave his Answer in
the Afferniative
Resolved, that the Town accept of the thirteen hundred hhds of
Salt offered by Mr. Cook at the regulated price
On a Motion. Voted, that
Cap1. Alexander Willson
Cap'. Elias Parkman
Cap'. John Williams
Cap'. John Matchet
Majr. James Melvil
[332.] Col°. Edward Procter
Cap'. Gilbert Speekman
be a Committee to go on board every Vessel 1 in this Harbour, and
examin what is a board and Report to the Town
Voted, that Col°. Barber the Navil Officer for this Port, be de-
sired to accompaney the Committee in this Search
On a Motion the Question was put Viz'. — Whether A publick
Store shall be opendin this Town, for the Supply of the Inhabi-
tants of this Town and State " — which passed in the Affermative
— also
Voted that a Committee be appointed to devise ways and means
for procuring the Articles wanted and Report the same as also
what Regulations they may Judge necessary for carrying the
Measures into execution
Voted, that Col°. Sears
Samuel Barret Esqr.
Mr. William Foster
Cap'. Amasa Davis
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Leonard Jarvis
John Rowe Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Voted, that the Selectmen be a Committee to confer with a
Committee from the Town of Weymouth relative to Supplying the
Town with Fire Wood to Report at the Adjournment
94 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
The Selectmen soon Reported Whereupon
[333.] Voted, that the Consideration of said Report be re-
ferred to to Morrow Morning 9. O. Clock, and that the Committee
of Weymouth be informed thereof by the Selectmen
Adjourned to to Morrow Morning 9. 0. Clock Forenoon
Wednesday September 29th. — 9. O Clock Forenoon met accord-
ing to Adjournment
The Report of the Committee relative to Fire Wood again read
and is as follows Viz1.
The Selectmen a Committee to confer with Cap'. White and Mr.
Bales, a Committee from Weymouth relative to supplying this
Town with Wood — Report That the Price of Wood landed at
Boston be as follows — Viz'.
Oake Wood from Weymouth, Braintree Hingham &c. by
Water £20 p. Cord
Walnut Wood 23 p. d°.
Pine Wood 13. 10/ p. d°.
p order J. SCOLLAY
The foregoing Report having been considered — the Question
was put — Whether the Report be accepted — passed in the
Affermative
On a Motion made Voted, that forty Shillings p Cord be added
to the foregoing prices of Wood, for all such Wood as shall be
brought into this Town by Land and delivered at the Doors of the
Purchasers — also
Voted, that four Persons be appointed Sealers of all Wood
brought in by Laud to this Town
[334.] The Town having Voted, that a Publick Magazine be
opened for the Reception and delivery of Freight Articles, of con-
sumption for the supply of the Inhabitants of this Town and
State — The Committee appointed to devise ways and means for
carrying said Vote into effect beg leave to Report
That a Sum not less than sixty thousand Pounds, be raised for
this Purpose by Subscription of Money and Stock as may be most
agreeable to the Subscriber the same to be vested in the following
Articles Viz1. Tea Sugar Rum Molosses Coffee Chocolat Salt
Gotten
That the Buisiness be conducted by such Persons as the Sub-
scribers shall appoint,. and on such terms as they shall agree upon
the prices not to exceed those Stated by the Convention at Con-
cord ; the profits if any to be to the Subscribers in proportion to
the Sum Subscribed by each, they take upon themselves all
Riskes —
That in order to the full Supply of the Magazine aforesaid the
Several Persons known to be possesed of the Articles above spece-
fied be requested to attend the Meeting of the Town and enquired
of whether they will Subscribe for this purpose and to what
amount and whether in Money or in Stock — After which the
Subscription to be circulated among the Merchants, and Traders
at large
Your Committee are of Opinion that the equity of this Mode of
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 95
supply and its being every Subscribers Interest to ingage in it
Will insure it general Support — all in & order
ISAAC SEARS Chairman
The foregoing Report having been read and considered —
[335.] The Question was put Whether the same shall be ex-
cepted — Passed in the Affermative, unanimously
The Committee to go on board Vessells and make search —
Reported —
On a Motion, Voted, that
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley
Mr. Bowdoin
Mr. Nathan Fraizer
Mr. Edward Edes
Col°. Thomas Crafts
Cap1. Henley
be a Committee to waite upon the Merchants &c and to request
their Attendance at the Meeting this Afternoon, in order to ac-
quaint the Town, whether they will subscribe — towards the fur-
nishing a Publick Store with Articles for the supply of the
Inhabitants
Adjourned to 3 O. Clock Afternoon
3 O. Clock P. M. Met according to Adjournment
Mr. Rowe the Moderator Pro. Tern0, not being able to attend,
the Town made choice of
Mr. Leonard Jarvis
as a Moderator Pro. Tern0.
A Pamphlet lately published by Congress respecting our Cur-
rency &c — was read to the Inhibitants by the Town Clark
Voted, that Mr. Enoch Brown
Mr. John Kneeland
Cap'. Alexander Willson
Mr. William Hoskins
[336.] Be a Committee to receive and Store the Salt that has
been purchased
On a Motion made Voted, that
Mr. Leonard Jarvis
James Bowdoin Junr. Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley
be a Committee to procure Subscription for the Magazine
Adjourned to Thursday next. 9. O. Clock Forenoon
Thursday September 30th. 9: O rClock Before Noon, Met ac-
cording to Adjournment
On a Motion made Voted, that
Cap'. John Ballard
Mr. Jeremiah Belknap
Mr. Joseph Shed
be a Committee to call upon such Persons as have Salt and to in-
form them that the Town have occasion for it, for the supply of
the Inhabitants
I
96 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
It was motioned that the Vote passed by the Town Yesterday
respecting appointing four Measurers of Wood, be reconsidered,
and that the Selectmen appoint but one Measurer for the Wood
brought in by Land
On a Motion Voted, that the Subscribers for a Publick Magazine
be authorized and impowered to make use of the Granary as a
Publick Store if they should have occasion
[337.] On a Motion Voted, that
Cap1. Matchet
Col°. Jabez Hatch
Cap'. Job Prince
be a Committee to go round to the Owners of Vessels and solist
their sending them to the Eastward for Wood, their
On a Motion Voted, that the stated price of Flour brought into
this Market be Thirty Pounds p hundred which is conformable to
the price of Wheat affixed by the Convention
A Motion made and carried that the Vote directing the Select-
men to appoint a Sealer of Wood be reconsidered, and that the
Town now proceed to appoint a Sealer
Deacon Thomas Bayle}^
was accordingly appointed a Sealer of Wood brought into this
Town by Land
Voted, that the Sealer of Wood receive of the Purchaser, two
Shillings p Load for the Trouble of Measuring and the Charge of
a Certificate to be delivered him
Whereas it is the wish and expectation of the Town that the
Convention to meet at Concord the first Wednesday of October
for the purpose of affixing prices upon Merchandize and Country
produce should as soon as possible after their Meeting, State the
price of Wood brought into this Town by Land and Water, to be
Landed at the Wharffs or [338.] Brought to the Doors of the
Purchasers ; and Whereas some Persons from the Price of Wood
not being as yet stated are shamfully taken advantage of the
distress of the Inhabitants for want of Fuel by asking enormous
prices for their Wood — therefore Voted, that such Persons as
shall hereafter sell or give more than twenty two pounds p Cord
for Wood brought in by Laud to the Door of the Purchaser their
Names shall be returned to the Committee of Thirteen, that they
may be published as Violaters of the Regulations of the Convention
and this Town, and the Names of the Sellers sent to the Commit-
tee of their respective Towns to be dealt with as they shall Judge
proper.
Voted, that no one presume to purchase a Load of Wood with-
out taking a Certificate certifying the Quantity contained in the
load purchased
Voted, that the Town Clerk cause One hundred and fifty of the
proceeding Votes respecting Wood to be printed, and pasted up at
different parts of the Town
The Article in the Warrant Viz*. To determine what shall be
done with the Towns share of the produce of the Land at New
Boston " — read whereupon
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 97
Voted, that this matter be left to the Selectmen to do thereon
as they may Judge to be for the Interest of the Town
[339.] On a Motion Voted, that the Constables of the Town
be directed to require the attendance of the Hatters who had signed
a publication relative to Sarson Belcher, at the Adjournment of
this Meeting
Adjourned to Fry day next 3. O. 'Clock Afternoon —
Fryday October 1. 3. O. Clock P: M: Met according to Adjourn-
ment
The Moderator Pro. Tern0, being absent the Town made choice
of another by written Votes, when it appeared that
Isaac Sears Esqr.
was chosen unanimously
Col°. Brown having acquainted the Town, that a quantity of
Wood might be had at Reading, and brought to the Landing at
Maiden — it was
Voted, that Cap'. Ballard
Col°. Barber
be a Committee to confer with said Brown in that Matter
The Hatters who had signed a publication in support of Sarson
Belcher who had been published as a Violator of the Regulations,
being required to attend instead of attending, they appointed a
Committee of their Body, who appeared in Town Meeting
The Town declining to hear the Committee, the Hatters were
again required to give their Attendance
[34O.] On a Motion made Voted, that the Selectmen be
directed to waite upon the Board of War. and, that the Stores
they have in the Granary may be immediately removed
Benjamin Clark Constable was turned out of Meeting by the
order of the Moderator for disorderly behaviour
Voted, that the Names of all those Hatters who have vindi-
cated Sarson Belcher in a late publication, except such as shall
retract their doings before the Committee of Thirteen, by Monday
next, shall be published by said Committee in the. next Thursdays
Papers, as Violators of the Regulations, and deserving the resent-
ment of the People
Voted, that a simular'Vote with what was published respecting
Cap'. Alexander Mackay be published in the several News Papers
respecting Sarson Belcher
Then the Meeting was dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned, in publick
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall Tuesday the 19 Day
of October 9. O. Clock Forenoon
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
[341.] The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring
in their Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting and the same being
brought in and sorted, it appeared that
The Hon1"16. Samuel Adams Esqr.
was chosen unanimously
98 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. To consider the request of the
Overseers of the Poor, that further provision may be made for
the supply of the Almshouse" — was read and considered where-
upon
Voted, the Sum of Ten thousand Pounds be granted in Addition
to the £6000. granted the 12th. of March last out of the Tax
already Voted to defray the charges of the Town be appropriated
for sole use of the Almshouse
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be and he hereby is directed
and impowered to borrow a Sum of Money not exceeding Ten
thousand Pounds to be paid to the orders of the Overseers of the
Poor for the support of the Poor in the Almshouse for which he
is to issue his negotiable Notes on Interest payable to the Lenders
out of the present Tax ; no part of said Sum to be made use of
for any Other purpose — also
Voted, that the Overseers of the Poor with such Persons as
they may choose, be a Committee to procure Subscriptions for the
ten Thousand Pounds, to be appropriated out of the present Tax
for the Use of the Almshouse, for which the Treasurer is to issue
his Negotiable Notes carrying Interest payable to the Lenders in
Current Money out of the present Tax
[342.] The Articles in the Warrant Viz*. — To consider the
expediency of opening a Fish Market on Dock Square," was read
whereupon a Motion was made and carried that the consideration
thereof shall be referred till after the Report of the Committee at
Concord shall be acted upon
The Committee of Convention having Reported Agreeable, to a
Motion made — the Meeting was Adjourned to 3. O. Clock After-
noon
The foregoing Report having been read after some due consider-
ation of the same the Question was put Viz1, whether the Town
will receive and adopt the Resolutions and proceedings Aforesaid
and so far as in their Power will take every effectual Measure
to carry them into execution — Passed in the Affermative — but
one dissentient previous to putting the Question a Motion was
made that the further consideration of the Report be refferred for
a fortnight which passed in the Negative almost unanimously —
See particulars as entered at large in the Fair Quarto Book of
Town Meetings from Page 199. to 220
On a Motion, Voted, that a Committee of Merchants be ap*
pointed to affix the prices of European Goods, Wine &c Agree-
able to the Resolves of the Convention
John Rowe Esqr.
Mr. Leonard Jarvis
Honble. William Phillips Esqr.
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
Mr. Nathan Frazier
Ellis Gray Esqr.
[343.] Mr. Hammond Brimmer
Samuel Austin Esqr.
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 99
Voted, that the Committee of Thirteen appointed to see the
Resolves of the former Convention and this Town carried into
execution be the Committee for carrying the Resolves of the late
Convention into effect
Moved and Voted, that the Selectmen be requested to appoint a
Measurer of Wood brought into this Town by Land
On a Motion Voted, that the several Committees which were
Appointed, to procure Subscriptions for the Loan Office, be de-
sired to call upon the respective Subscribers, receive their Money,
and lodge the same in the Loan Office there to take Loan Office
Certifficates and return them to the respective Subscribers ; and
said Committee are requested to procure further Subscriptions for
the Loan Office, there to t;ike Loan Office Certificates, and return
them to the respective Subscribers ; and said Commee. are re-
quested to use their utmost influence to procure further Subscrip-
tions, being in the Opinion of this Town a Matter -of the last
consequence
Voted, that the Town Clerk serve the Chairman of the several
Committees with a Copy of the proceeding Vote
Majr. Melvill b}- his desire was excused from serving any longer
as one of the Committee of Thirteen and Cap1. John Ballard was
chosen in his room
[344.] Col°. Daws excused by his desire from the Committee
to procure Subscriptions and Mr. John Tileston was appointed in
his room
The Article in the Warrant relative to a Fish Market read,
whereupon Voted, that the Consideration thereof be referred to
the Adjournment
Voted, that it be earnestly recommended to the Merchants,
Shopkeepers and Traders of this Town to open their Stores and
Shops for the supply of our Bretheren in the Country and the In-
habitants of this Town and that they shall at least by Retail
Voted, that the Clerk be directed to publish in the several Papers
the foregoing Votes relative to the Report of the Committee ap-
pointed to attend the late Convention at Concord
Moved nnd carried that in order to give the Committee to affix
prices time to Report that this Meeting be Adjourned to Tuesday
next 10. O. Clock. A : M : and this Meeting was accordingly
Adjourned
Tuesday, October 26th. 10. O. Clock Forenoon, met according to
Adjournment
The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. the Moderator of the Meeting
Unable to attend ; the Inhabitants withdrew and brought in their
Votes for a Moderator Pro. Tern0, and the same being brought in
and sorted it appeared that
[345.] Stephen Higgicson Esqr.
was chosen Moderator Pro. Tern0, and took the Seat accordingly
Several of the Committee of Thirteen, appointed to see the
Resolves of the Convention &c executed, being out of Town, or
unable to attend
100 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Mess". Isaac Peirce
Edward Green
Christop1". Clark
Benjamin Edes
Adams Colson
were chosen in the room of Cap'. Phillips, Col". Edward Proctor,
Henry Prentice, Samuel Ruggles and Dr. Charles Jarvis
The Committee to affix Prices on European Merchandise Wine
&c Reported, and after the same was read — a Motion was made
and passed, that the said Report be Recommitted
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. " To consider the expediency
of erecting a Fish Market in Dock Square was again read, and
the same having been duly considered, it was Voted, that it be
left to the Selectmen to build or permit to be built as many Fish
Stalls over the Water near Dock Square, as they shall Judge
necessary, and to affix such prices on Fish, or make such Agree-
ments with those who may be ready to supply this Market with
Fish till Spring, as they shall Judge reasonable, and for the benefit
of the Inhabitants
On a Motion made Voted, that a Committee be now appointed
to obtain Supplies of the Gentlemen [346.] In Trade, for the
supply of the Publick Store — and that
Mr. Thomas Walley
Caleb Davis Esqr.
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
Henry Hill Esqr.
Col°. Thomas Crafts
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid — And the Committee
are desired, earnestly to request of those Persons who. have the
Necessaries of Life, that they will freely supply the Inhabitants at
least by Retail with such Necessaries
On a Motion made Voted, that when this Meeting shall be
Adjourned, it shall be to this Day fortnight being the 9th. Day of
November next 10. OClock Forenoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Tuesday November 9. 10 O. Clock Forenoon Met according to
Adjournment
Samuel Adams Esqr. the Moderator and Stephen Higginson
Esqr. Moderator Pro Tern0:
The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. the Moderator and Mr. Hig-
ginson the Moderator Pro Tern0, being out of Town the Inhabitants
were directed to withdraw and bring in their Votes, for a Mod-
erator Pro Tern0, and the same being brought in and sorted it
appeared that
John Tudor Esqr.
was chosen Moderator of the Meeting Pro Tern0.
[347.] The Committee appointed to affix the prices of
European Merchandize &c &c
Reported verbally — That they had spent considerable time in
considering the Buisiness Assigned them by the Town, and found
it to be impracticable to affix particular prices to the various
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 101
Articles of European Merchandize, or to do any thing more than
the Late Convention at Concord had done in that matter
On a Motion made Voted, that the Honble. Thomas Gushing
Esqr. and James Gorham Esqr. who were of the Number of Com-
missioners from the New England Colonies who lately met at
Hartford in order to consider the expediency of Stating Prices
&c — be desired to Attend this Meeting, and that a Committee be
now chosen to wait upon them for that purpose
Voted, that Mr. Christophef Clark be a Committee to waite
upon those Gentleman
Mr. Gushing and Mr. Gorham at the disire of the Town attended
accordingly, and at the request of the Inhabitants acquainted
them with the Proceedings of the Convention at Hartford relative
to the consideration of the expediency of stating prices &c
On a Motion made Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned
to Wednesday the 10 Ins1. — 3. O.Clock P:M: and it was accord-
ingly Adjourned
Wednesday the 10 Day of November 3. O.Clock Afternoon —
met according to Adjournment
[348.] The Committee appointed to procure Subscriptions
for the purpose of furnishing the Town, Magazine with Grain,
West India Goods, being called upon to Report the Sums that had
been Subscribed. Mr. Walley one of the Committee laid the
Subscription Paper on the Table, which was read and there
delivered back to Mr. Walley
John Rowe Esqr. and Mr. Walley two of the Committee chosen
by the Subscriber for supplying in a Publick Store — Reported,
That there had been receiv'd into the Publick Store since the 6th.
Day of October last
906 Bushels of Indian Corn
207 Ditto of Rye
88 Ditto of Indian Meal
15 Ditto of Rye Meal
60 Ditto of Wheat
2 Tons of Flour
That besides the above, the Store Keeper Col°. Hurd has en-
gaged upward of 300 Bushels of Indian Corn to be brought in
very soon — that the greatest part of the above mentioned Grain
has been delivered out again in small parcells to at least 1500
— different Persons in the Town of Boston — that had there been
a sufficiency of Salt and other Merchandize turned into the Pub-
lick Store as was expected, the Granary might have been filled with
Provisions before this some very considerable quantities of Grain
and Flour, having been brought into Town, and offered at the
Publick Store, which was afterwards purchased by other Per-
sons who could pay a Larger proportion of Salt, Sugar, Tea, and
Rum than could be supplied from the Publick Store [349.] That
what Money now remains in the hands of the Store Keeper aris-
ing from the Sale of Salt Sugar, Grain &c cannot be invested in
any sort of Merchandize, without giving 50 p C'. differauce in
price — that a Large quantity of Salt, Sugar Tea and Rum had
102 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
been sold from the Publick Store, besides, what has been supplied
the Country People for Grain, and to others who have brought
to this Market Beef, Mutton &c &c as can be attested by Messrs.
Ballard Hews &c
A Motion was made, " that the sense of the Town be taken
whether the Publick Store shall be kept open " — and the Ques-
tion being accordingly put — Passed in the Aff ermative
On a Motion — Voted, that the Committee appointed to procure
Subscriptions for the Publick Store, be desired to call upon all
those Subscribers who have not fulfilled their engagements, and to
require that they do it immediately — also
Voted, that they use their endaviours to procure further Sub-
scriptions for the supply of the said Store
Moved that this Meeting be desolved
And the Meeting was accordingly dessolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders, & other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned, in publick Town
Meeting Assembled at Fanuiel Hall November the 24th. 1779
Three O. Clock Afternoon
[35O.] The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring
in their Votes for a Moderator of the Meeting and the same being
brought in and Sorted it appeared that
John Tudor Esqr.
was chosen
The Article in the Warrant Viz'.
To consider and determine upon Measures for procuring the
Town proportion of Clothing for the Contenental Army Agreeable
to a late Resolve of the General Assembly" — was read — «• where-
upon
Voted, that John Rowe Esqr.
Col°. Thomas Crafts
Jonathan Williams Esqr.
Mr. Samuel Eleot Junr.
Mr. Nathan Frazier
be a Committee for that Purpose, and to Report at the Adjourn-
ment
The Petition of Mr. Samuel Hunt Master of the South Grammer
School, that he may be allowed for his services since August last,
and that it may be determined what Sum shall be granted for an
Assistant to said School " — was read, whereupon
Voted, that a Committee be appointed to consider said Petition
and what may be proper Allowance for the other School Masters,
and to Report at the Adjournment
Voted, that John Lowell Esqr.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Thomas Crafts Esqr.
Kllis Gray Esqr.
Mr. Nicholas Bowes
be a Committee for that purpose
[351.] The Article in the Warrant Viz'. " To consider what
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1779. 103
Measures shall be taken for the repairing the Mill & Draw Bridges
now became dangerious, the Proprietors of the Mills, having de-
clined doing it " — was read, whereupon
Voted, that the Selectmen be and hereby are appointed a Com-
mittee to take this Article into Consideration & Report at the
Adjournment, what they Judge best to be done thereon
Adjourned to Tuesday next 10. OClock Forenoon
Tuesday November 30th. — 10. 0. Clock, Beforenoon — Met
according to Adjournment
Deacon Tudor in the Chair
The Selectmen a Committee appointed by the Town, to confer
with the Mill Owners relative to the Repairs of the Mill Bridges
beg leave to Report
That they have met with the Proprietors of the Mills, and have
obtained their Assurance, that those Bridges shall be immediately
so repared as to prevent danger to Carriages &c. passing over
them, and that as soon as the Season will permit they purpose to
give them a more thorough Repair
J. SCOLLAY, Chairman p Order
The foregoing Report having been read, it was Voted that the
same be accepted
The Committee appointed to consider Mr. Hunts Request, and
what may be proper Allowances for the other School Masters, have
considered these [352.] Matters, and Report as their Opinion —
That there be allowed to the several School Masters for Six
Months service commencing on the first Day of September last the
following Sums respectively Viz'.
To Mr. Hunt £1800
To Mr. Holbrook 1500
To Mr. Tileston 1500
To Mr. Carter - 1500
ToMr. Bently 1500
J. LOWELL p Order
The foregoing Report having been read and considered — the
Question was put Viz'. — Whether the same shall be accepted —
Passed in the Affermative
On a Motion, Voted, that a Committee be appointed to consider
& Report what they Judge may be a suitable allowance for an
Usher for the South Grammar School
, On a Motion, Voted, that the Committee appointed the 24l.
Ins', to consider proper allowances for the School Masters, be the
Committee 'for the purpose aforesaid
The Committee appointed by the Town to consider the Article
in the Warrant relative to procuring Clothing for the Continental
Army Report as follows
That part of the Clothing can be procured, but your Committee
after the utmost enquirey find it at present impracticable to pro-
cure the whole, and what can be procured cannot be obtained,
without the Cash being paid immediately and those Articles will
be very dear
JOHN ROWE p Order
104 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
[353.] The above Report having been read, it was Voted,
that the same be accepted
On a Motion Voted, that a Committee be now appointed to
procure Subscriptions for a Sum not exceeding £30,000 for the
purpose of procuring the Towns proportion of Clothing for the
Continental Army, and the Town Treasurer is hereby directed and
impowered to Give his Negotiable Notes on Interest to the re-
spective Lenders for the Sum Subscribed — also
Voted, that Col°. Thomas Crafts
Mj. Thomas Hitchborne
M . Henry Hill
Ebeuezer Hancock Esqr.
Mr. John Kneeland
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
It was moved & Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned,
it shall to Monday next 3. O. Clock P: M: being the 6th. of
December
Voted, that the Town Meeting Adjournment be published in ye.
News Papers
Then the Meeting was Adjourned
Monday December 6th. — 3 O. Clock Afternoon — Met accord-
ing to Adjournment
Deacon Tudor in the Chair
The Committee appointed to Consider and Report a suitable
allowance to Mr. Hunts present Assistant as also what mayebe
proper allowance for an Usher to the South Grammer School
[354.] Report that Mr. Hunts be allowed and paid out of
the Town Treasurery the Sum of four hundred & Seventy Five
pounds in full for an Assistant for the Nine Months past —
And the future Allowance for the Usher of the South Grammer
School, be one half of the Sum allowed the Master
EZKEL. PRICE p Order
The foregoing Report having been read and considered, the
Question was put Viz'. Whether the Report shall be accepted
Passed in the Affermative
The Committee appointed to procure Subscriptions for a Sum
not exceeding £30,000 for the purpose of obtaining the Towns
proportion of [Clothing] for the Continental Army — Reported,
That they had as yet obtained but £500 — and should not be
able to procure the Sum intended
On a Motion Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to, to
Morrow 3. O. Clock Afternoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Tuesday the 7th. Day of December 3. O. Clock Afternoon, Met
according to Adjournment
The Article in the Warrant relative to procuring Clothing &c —
was again taken up and considered whereupon Voted that
Col°. Thomas Crafts
Mr. Thomas Hitchborne
Mr. Henry Hill
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 105
[355.] Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
Mr. John Kneeland
the Committee appointed at a late Meeting to procure Subscrip-
tions for a Sum not exceeding £30,000 for the purpose of pro-
curing the Towns proportion of Clothing for the Continental Army,
be and hereby are desired to proceed in that buissiness, untill a
Sum sufficient for the purpose is Subscribed ; said Lenders to be
repaid the respective Sums by them advanced, by a discount out
of their present Tax — also
Voted, that David Jeffries Esqr. the Town Treasurer, be and he
hereby is impower'd and directed, to give his negotiable Notes to
the respective Subscribers, for the sum by them so Advanced for
the purpose aforesaid payable out of the present Tax
On a Motion Voted, that the thanks of the Town be and hereby
are given to John Tudor Esqr. the Moderator of this Meeting for
dispatching the Buissness thereof
A Motion made and carried that this Meeting be dessolved
And the Meeting was accordingly Dissolved
[356.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston at Faneuil Hall on Tuesday the 1'. Day
of February Anno Domini 1780
Warrant for calling the Meeting read when it appeared by the
Return made by the Constables on said Warrant, that they had
neglected to Warn one of the Wards
A Motion was then made, and it was accordingly Voted, that
the Selectmen be desired to issue a warrant, on Thursday next 3.
O. Clock Afternoon, And that the Constables be directed to Notify
the Inhabitants without leaving printed Notifications
Then the Meeting was dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned in publick
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the 3d.
Day of February 1780
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw, and bring in their
Votes for a Moderator, and the same having been brought in and
sorted, it appeared, that
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr. was chosen
[357.] General Hancock having desired to be excused from
serving as Moderator on account of his health — he was excused,
and the Votes, for another Person as Moderator being brought
in and sorted, it appeared that
John Tudor Esqr.
was chosen Moderator of this Meeting
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. — To consider what Sum of
Money shall be raised to defray, the necessary Charges and
Expences of the Town " — was read, and considered whereupon
Voted, that the further Sum of Seventy thousand Pounds, in
addition to the Sums already granted, be raised by* a Tax upon
Polls and Estates within this Town, for the relief of the Poor,
106 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
and defrying other necessary Charges arising within this Town the
ensuing Year
The Article of the Warrant Viz'. " Of the request of the Assess-
ors, that the Town would determine what they shall be paid a
Day for their services to this time." — was read, whereupon
Voted, that the Assessors have Nine pounds, p Day for their
services to this time
The Article in the Warrant Viz1: — "To consider and determine
whether the Watch at New Boston shall be reistablished " — was
read and considered, whereupon
[358.] Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to Reinstate the
Watch at West Boston
The Article in the Warrant Viz4. " To consider the Request of
the Town Treasurer that it may be determined, what Allowance
may be proper to make him for past services " — was read, where-
upon
Voted, that John Lowell Esqr.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Thomas Crafts Esqr.
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Mr. Nicholas Bowes
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid to make Report as soon
as may be
Then the Meeting was dessolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified & legally warned in publick Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 6th. Day of
March 1780
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr. was chosen Moderator of this
Meeting by a unanimous Vote
The Committee appointed by the Town the 5th. of March last
to apply to a proper Gentleman to [359.] Deliver an Oration the
5th. of March Ins1, to perpetuate the memory of the horred Mas-
sacre perpetrated on the Evening of the 5th. of March 1770 by a
Party of Soldiers under the Command of Cap'. Thomas Preston of
the 29th. Regiment — Reported
That having met together several times for the purposes men-
tioned in the Town Vote, they had unanimously made choice of
Mr. Jonathan Mason Junr. to deliver an Oration on the 5th. of
March Ins', who had accordingly accepted of that service
The foregoing Report having been made, the Question was
put — Whether the same shall be accepted — Passed in the Affer-
mative
Upon a Motion the Town took into consideration? what would
be the best time to have the Oration pronounced ; as also what
place would be most suitable for the Purpose — whereupon
Voted, that the Oration be delivered at the Old Brick Meeting
House, the Hall not being capacious enough to receive to the
Inhabitants that attended upon the occasion
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 107
Voted, that Col". Tudor
Col°. Palfrey
Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
be a Committee to wait upon Jonathan Mason, and acquaint him
that it is the desire of the Town that the Oration may be delivered
at the Old Brick Meeting [36O.J House. 12. O. Clock this Day —
as also to ask leave of the Committee of said Church for the use
of that Building
On a Motion made
Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to order the several
Bells in the Town to be tolled from one quarter of an Hour after
9. untill 10. O.Clock
Adjourned to the Old Brick Meeting House 12. O.Clock
The Town met at the Old Brick Meeting House 12. O.Clock
according to Adjournment
The Cojnmittee appointed to wait upon Mr. Jonathan Mason
Junr. to acquaint him with the Vote of the Town respecting the
time and Place for the delivery of an Oration — Reported
An Oration to commemorate the horred Massacre of the Fifth
of March 1770 and to impress upon the Minds of the Citizens, the
ruinous tendency of standing Armies, being placed in Free and
Populous Cities. &c. was delivered by Mr. Jonathan Mason Junr.
to a large and crowded Audience and received by them with great
Applause
On a Motion Voted, that
The Honble. John Hancock Esqf.
William Cooper
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Mr. Barth0. Kneeland
William Tudor Esqr.
[361.] John Lowell Esqr.
Ellis Gray Esqr.
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to wait upon Mr. 'Jona-
than Mason Junr. to thank him for the spirited and elegant Oration
delivered by Him at their request, in commemoration of the horred
Massacre perpetrated on the Evening of the 5th. of March 1770.
by a Party of Soldiers of the 29th. Regiment under the Command
of Cap4. Thomas Preston, and to request of him a Copy thereof
for the Press.
On a Motion made
Voted, that The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr.
The Honble. John Pitts Esqr.
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr.
John Lowell Esqr.
Mr. Jonathan Mason Junr.
Mr. Barth0. Kneeland
Harbottle Dorr Esqr.
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to apply to a proper
Gentleman, to deliver an Oration on the 5th. of March next to per-
petuate th-e memory of the horred Massacre perpetrated on the
Evening of the 5th. of March 1770. by a Party of Soldiers of the
108 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
29th. Regiment, under the Command of Cap*. Thomas Preston, and
to impress upon our Minds the ruinous tendency of Standing Ar-
mies being plac'd in Free and populous Cities in a time of Peace ;
and the necessity of such noble Exertions in all future times as
the Inhabitants of the Town then made, whereby the designs of the
Conspirators against the Publick Peace may be still frustrated
A Collection made for Mr. Monk who still languishes under the
wounds received on 5th. March 1770 of £329 .. 8.. 1.
[362.] Then the Meeting was dessolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in Publick Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 13th. Day of
March Anno Domini — 1780 — 9 O. Clock Before Noon
Prayer was made by the Revd. Dr. Cooper
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
Sundry Laws enjoined to be read at this Meeting were accord-
ingly — read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting, and the same being
brought in and sorted it appeared that
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr
was chosen unanimously
Mr. William Cooper was chosen Town Clerk for the Year
ensuing, and took the Oath of Office for the faithf ull discharge
of his Duty which Oath was administred by Mr. Justice Green-
leaf
The Town having Determined by a Vote to choose Seven Select-
men, the Inhabitants were [363.] Then directed to withdraw and
bring in their Votes for that Number ; and the same being brought
in and sorted, it appeared that only the following Six Gentlemen
Viz1.
John Scollay Esqr.
Cap1. Gustavus Fellows
Harbottle Dorr Esqr.
Mr. Nathan Frazier
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Mr. John Sweetser excused
were chosen Selectmen for the Year ensuing
The Votes being brought in for one Selectman and sorted it
appeared that
Cap'. William Mackay
was chosen
On a Motion made the Question was put Viz1. Whether the
Town will now make choice of Nine Persons, as a Committee of
Correspondence, Inspection and Safety for the Year ensuing " —
Passed in the Affermative
The Votes being brought in and sorted, it appeared that
Mr. Ebenezer Dorr - - - excused
Mr. John Lowell - - - d°.
Majr. Thomas Melvill - - d°.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 109
Mr. Henry Prentice - - d°.
John Lucas Esqr. - - - d°.
Col°. Josiah Waters - - d°.
Cap'. John Simkins - - d°.
Mr. Jonathan Mason Jur.
Mr. Samuel Brick - - - d°.
[364.] Were chosen a Committee of Correspondence In-
spection and Safet}- for the Year ensuing
Mr. John Lowell having desired that he may be excused from
serving on the Committee of Correspondence &c — he was accord-
ingly excused
Adjourned to 3 O.Clock P.M.
3 O. Clock. P: M: Met according to Adjournment
The Votes being brought in and sorted it appeared that
Nathaniel Barber Esqr. (excused) was chosen one of the Com-
mittee of Correspondence Inspection and Safety for the Year
ensuing
Col°. Waters one of the Gentleman chosen a Committee of
Correspondence &c having desired to be excused from serving on
that Committee he was accordingly excused
Nathaniel Barber Esqr. another of the Gentlemen chosen to
compose that Committee having desired to be excused from serv-
ing, for reasons given by him, he was accordingly excused
Mr. Henry Prentice of the same Committee was also by his
desire excused from serving on the Committee
Majr. Thomas Melville another of the Committee having desired
to be excused from serving, he was accordingly excused
[365.] The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for twelve
Wardens, and upon sorting them it appeared that
Cap'. Jonathan Davis
Col°. Josiah Waters Jur.
Mr. William Brick excused
Capt. Nathaniel Curtis
Mr. Joshua Farrington
Mr. James Boyce
Cap'. John Newell
Mr. William White
Mr. Joseph Pico
Alexander Edwards Esqr.
Mr. Jacob Rhodes
Mr. John Boyls
were chosen Wardens for the Year ensuing
Mr. Samuel Brick one of the Gentleman chosen a Committee of
Correspondence &c having as by his Letter on file, desired to be
excused from serving on that Committee he was accordingly ex-
cused
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for sixteen Fire Wards,
and upon sorting them it appeared that
John Scollay Esqr
William Cooper
Francis Shaw Esqr.
110 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Edward Procter Esqr.
Cap'. John Pulling
Caleb Davis Esqr.
Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Tileston
[366.] Andrew Syms Esqr.
Cap'. Gustavus Fellows
Joseph Webb Esqr.
Cap'.' John Ballard
Mr. John Ballard
Mr. John Lowell
Majr. Thomas Melvill
Jabez Hatch Esqr.
were chosen Fire Wards for the Year ensuing
Mr. John Sweetser chosen Selectman having desired thai he
might be excused from serving in that Office, as it must prevent
his discharging the trust of an Overseer of the Poor : he was
accordingly excused
Votes, for a County Treasurer, brought in, and being sealed up
in Town Meeting were delivered to Mr. Constable Parks to be by
him returned to the Court of General Sessions of the Peace at their
next Meeting
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for one Selectman in the
room of Mr. John Sweetser, who was excused from serving, it ap-
peared that
Mr. Tuttle Hubbard
was chosen a Selectman for the Year ensuing
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for one Fire Ward, and
upon sorting them it appeared that Mr. John Wintherop was chosen
a Fire Ward for the Year ensuing
[367.] The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for twelve
Overseers of the Poor, and upon sorting them it appeared that
The Honble. William Phillips Esqr.
Isaac Smith Esqr.
Mr. Jonathan Mason
Cap'. Samuel Partridge
Mr. Samuel Whitwell
Mr. John White
Edward Procter Esqr.
William Powell Esqr.
Mr. John Sweetser Jimr.
Samuel Barret Esqr.
Mr. Nicholas Bowes
Joseph Webb Esqr.
were chose Overseers of the Poor for the Year ensuing
Majr. Edward Carnes
was chosen a Surveyor of Hemp, for the Year ensuing
Messrs. John Bui finch
Joseph Ballard
Uriah Norcross
Benjamin White
Joseph Butler
BOSTON Towx RECORDS, 1780. Ill
Samuel Fenno
Henry Blaisdel
John Charupney
Thomas Bayley
Edward Ranger
John Bell
Abraham Howard
James Rogers
Phillip Eckert
[368.] Benjamin Howard
Abijah Crane
Samuel Dellaway
Jonathan Stoddard
Thomas Uran
were chose — Surveyors of Boards, for the Year ensuing
Mess". William Clough
Joseph Daniels
Samuel Dyer
Nathaniel Wales
William Brown
were chose Fence Viewers for the Year ensumg
Mess". Daniel Parks
John Child excused
Samuel Curtis
Nathan Green
Samuel Bangs
were chosen Sealers of Leather for the Year ensuing
Mr. Adam Colson
was chosen Informer of Deer for the Year ensuing
Mess". Peter Cotta
Manassah Masters
William Corbit
Joshua Pico
William Raynard
John Owen
Samuel Hayley
William Parkman
Caleb Hayden
[369.] Samuel Bernard
William Freeland
were chosen Cullers of Staves for the Year ensuing
Mess™. Samuel Curtis
Jonathan Farnam
John Cade
were chose Hogreeves for the Year ensuing
Mess". George Hamling
Isaac Tuckerman
were chose Haywards for the Year ensuing
Adjourned to Tuesday next 10. O'Clock Before Noon
Tuesday the 14 Day of March 10. O'Clock Before Xoon — Met
according to Adjournment
112 CITY DOCUMENT No. -SO.
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr. the Moderator of this Meeting,
having desired to be excused from further service as a Moderator,
his duty requiring his attendance at the General Court he was
accordingly excused for the present, and the Inhabitants were
directed to bring in their Votes for a Moderator Pro Tein°. and the
same being brought in and sorted ft appeared that
John Tudor Esqr.
was chosen Moderator Pro Tern0.
Mr. Dorr having desired to be excused by the Town from serv-
ing on the Committee of Correspondence &c. — he was accord-
ingly excused
[37O.J The Selectmen having requested an augmentation of
their Number — the Question was put — Viz*. Whether the Vote
for choosing only seven Persons as Selectmen the present year,
shall be reconsidered, which passed in the Affermative
A debate having arisen, relative to a time being assigned, for
the choice of two Selectmen — a Motion was made " that the Vote
for an Augmentation of that Body may be reconsidered " and the
Question being put passed in the Affermative
Cap1. John Simkins chosen on the Committee of Correspondence
& having desired to be excused from serving — he was accord-
ingly excused —
John Lucas Esqr. having desired to be excused from serving on
the Committee of Correspondence the year ensuing he was accord-
ingly excused
On a Motion made Voted, that the choice of a Committee of
Correspondence be referred to the Adjournment of this Meeting
A motion was made for reconsidering the Vote Affixing the
number of the Committee of Correspondence at nine, and that
thirteen be chosen at the Adjournment — a debate arising on the
Motion, the Question was withdrawn
The Inhabitants having brought in their Votes, for a Town
Treasurer it appeared that
[371.] David Jeffries Esqr.
was chosen Town Treasurer for the Year ensuing unanimously
On a Motion made — the Question was put — Whether Collec-
tors of Taxes shall be chose seperate from Constables — Passed
in the Affermative
On a Motion made Voted, that the choice of Constables be re-
ferred over to the Adjournment of this Meeting
The Selectmen
were chosen Surveyors of High Ways for the Year ensuing
Jonathan Williams Esqr.
Mr. John Sweetser Jur.
Mr. John White
were chosen Purchasers of Grain for the Year ensuing, and they
are desired and impowered to give all needfull directions to the
Keeper of the Granary, respecting the quantity of Grain to be
sold, and affixing the prices thereof from time to time as occaison
shall require ; and the said Committee are desired and directed to
•cause all the Grain belonging to the Town to be ground at the
new Mills near the Mill Bridge
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 113
John Tudor Esqr.
John Lucas Esqr.
Mr. John White
Mr. James Thwing
Mr. John Sweetser
were chosen Survevers of Wheat for the Year ensuing
[372.] Mess". Thomas Green
John Skinner
were chose Assay Masters for the year ensuing
Messrs. Samuel Clough for Ward N°. 1.
Cap'. John Lambert - - - 2.
James Sherman - - 3
John Cogswell ----- 4
John Dinsdel ----- 5
John Welch ----- 6
William Peke 7
David Burrel 8
Daniel Parks 9
William Rogers - - - - 10
Ebenezer Hinkley - - - - 11
Charles Simpson - - - - 12
were chosen Scavingers for the Year ensuing
On a Motion, Voted, that
Mr. Jonathan Mason
Mr. John Sweetser
Samuel Barret Esqr.
be a Committee to enquire respecting the payments made by the
Collectors, into the State, County and Town Treasuries ; and to
make Report as soon as may be
On a Motion Voted, that the choice of Collectors be referred
over to the Adjournment of this Meeting
Adjourned to 3. O'Clock P: M:
3 O. Clock P: M: met according to Adjournment
[373,] The following Persons were chose Clerks of the
Market for the Year ensuing Viz'.
Mess". Benjamin Coolidge
Isaijah Doan
Samuel Fen no
Henry Newman
Thomas Gushing Junr.
Abraham Eustis
John Reed Junr.
John Codman Junr.
John Jackson
Thomas Lovel
John Carnes Junr.
On a Motion, Voted, that
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Col°. Josiah Waters
Col°. Thomas Daws
114 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Samuel Barret Esqr.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
John Lucas Esqr.
be a Committee to consider the time aud manner in which the
Assessors should set for abatements of Taxes ; and to Report at
the Adjournment
On a Motion Voted, that
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Col°. Josiah "Waters Jur.
Col°. Thomas Daws
Samuel Barret Esqr.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
John Lucas Esqr.
be a Committee to take into consideration the number of Assessors
uecesary to be chosen, aud the manner in which they shall be
paid
[374.] Moved and Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to
lay before the Town at the next Town Meeting, the Sums they
have drawn for on the Town Treasurer the last Year, distinguish-
ing the Several services
On a Motion, Voted, that a Committee be appointed to make
full inquirey into the Affairs of the Town, respecting its Debts,
and Credits, and Report the same, as soon as ma}1 be, with the
Names of the Persons to and from whom the several Sums are
respectively due — also
Voted, that Thomas Dawes Esqr.
Col°. Josiah Waters
Mr. Herman Brimmer
Mr. Joseph Pierce
Ellis Gray Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Ebenezer Storer Esqr.
Mr. Samuel Brick
Mr. John Lowell
Honble. Benjamin Austin Esqr.
Mr. John Andrews
be and they hereby are appointed a Committee to Audit the Ac-
counts of David Jeffries Esqr. Treasurer, and also the Accompts
of the Overseers of the Poor ; and the said Committee are im-
powered when they shall Audit said Accompts to allow such of
the Overseers as shall advance Money for the Relief of the Poor,
Interest on all such Sums from the time so Advanced, untill they
shall have Audited [375.] Said Accompts, and they are also
desired to Report from time to time a State of the Treasurey re*
specting its Debts and Credits, and on any Matter that they may
think proper
The article in the Warrant Viz1. — To determin what Land
shall be improved by the Town for the raising of Vegitables the
present Year, was read, whereupon
Voted, that Cap*. Job Prince
Mr. Isaac Pierce
Mr. Enoch Brown
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 115
Mr. Samuel Breck
Mr. John Lowell
Mr. Cornelius Tbayer
Mr. Andrew Oliver
be a Committee to consider this Article, and Report at the
Adjournment
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. — To consider what Measures
shall be taken relating to the Manure in the Street " — was read,
whereupon
Voted, that Cap'. Job Prince
Mr. Isaac Pierce
Mr. Enoch Brown
M1. Samuel Breck
Mr. John Lowell
Mr. Cornelius Thayer
Mr. Andrew Oliver
be a Committee to consider this Matter and Report at the Adjourn-
ment
[376.] The Article relative to a School house was read,
whereupon it was moved and Voted, to refer the Consideration
thereof to the Adjournment
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. — "To consider what further
provision is necessary for the Work House " — was read where-
upon Voted, that
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
M.r. John Andrews
Mr. Edward Payne
William Cooper
be a Committee to consider this Matter and Report as soon as
may bu
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. — "To consider what is
further necessary to be done relative to supplying the Families of
such Non Commissioned Officers and Soldiers as have engaged
in the Continental Service, conformable to a late Act of the
General Court, was read, whereupon, it was moved and Voted,
that the further consideration of this Matter be referred over to
the Adjournment of this Meeting
The Article in the Warrant — Viz'. "To consider whether any
further Measures can be taken to promote Virtue, and good order
in the Town " — was read, whereupon — Voted, that
The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr.
Revd. Doctr. Cooper
Revd. Mr. Lotherop
Revd. Mr. Howard
Mr. Joseph Peirce
[377.] John Tudor Esqr.
Caleb Davis Esqr.
be a Committee for the Purpose aforesaid to Report as soon as
may be
Adjourned to Tuesday next being the 21 Ins'. 10. OClock Fore-
Noon
116 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
March 21st. 10. O. Clock. Met according to Adjournment
John Tudor in the Chair
On a Motion Voted, that the Town come to the choice of Con-
stables at 12 O. Clock
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for Eight or Nine Persons to serve on a Committee of Cor-
respondence Inspection & Safety in the Room of Eight who have
resigned ; and the Votes having been brought in and sorted it
appeared that
Nathaniel Barber Esqr.
Edward Procter Esqr.
Cap'. John Pulling
Mr. Foster Conday
Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
Samuel Ruggles Esqr.
Andrew Symms Esqr.
Thomas Melvill Esqr.
were Chosen a Committee of Correspondence, Inspection and
Safety, for the Year ensuing
Col°. Waters, having desired that he might be excused serving
as a Warden the Question was put and passed in the negative
[378.] The Committee who were appointed to consider the
Number of the Assessors, and the Manner in which they are to be
paid — Report as their Opinion
That in consideration of the impoverished State of the Town,
there should be five Assessors and no more to be paid out of
the Town Treasurey
The foregoing Report having been read and considered — the
Question was put — Whether the Report be accepted — Passed in
the Negative
On a Motion Voted, that the Town will make choice of Seven
Assessors for the Year ensuing
The Committee appointed to enquire respecting the payments
made by the Collectors into the State, County and Town Treas-
uries— Report
That it appears by the Treasurers Books &c That there is a
ballance due from Frances Shaw Esqr.
March 20th. to the State Treasurer £5222.19. 7£
To the Town Treasurer 14798.11.11
20020.11. 6
Ballance due from Benjamin Sumner
Junr. March 20th. To the State Treasurer £1091.5. 4
To the Town Treasurer 7267.2.10
18358.8.2.
Ballance due from Josiah Torry March 20th.
To the State Treasurer 4963.7-
To the Town Treasurer - - - - - 3055.4.10
8018.11.10
[379.] 46397. 11.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 117
Ballance due from Mr. James Thompson
March 20th.
To State Treasurer £9934.14.7.
To the Town Treasurer ----- 5074. 6.2
15009.0.9.
Due from Mr. Benjamin Cudworth 61406. 12. 3|
To Town Tren surer £1180.5.5.
Due from Mr. Benjamin Cudworth to
- - the State Treasury on Execution
- - returned not satisfied and one re-
- - turned satisfied in part for 1778
- - Tax 3647.16 —
The Committee to consider the time and manner in which the
Assessors shall set for Abatements Reported
That the Assessors shall sit one Month after the essuing each
Tax for the Abatements thereon "
The foregoing Report having been read, and considered — the
Question was put Viz'. — Whether the Report shall be accepted —
Passed in the Affermative
Voted, that the Assessors be and hereby are impowered and
directed to sit for such Abatements of Taxes, as they shall Judge
reasonable, on every Day of the Month following the delivery of
the Tax Books to the Collectors, Lords Days excepted, and no
longer, saving that they be allowed to sit the two last Weeks in
November for the Abatement of the Taxes of such Persons as had
not an oppertunity of applying in the above Limitted time by
reason of their being out of the State ; at which time they are also
allowed and impowered to Abate the Taxes of such Persons as
may have died Insolvent before the last Day of November
[38O.] The Town brought in their Votes for Seven Assess-
ors, and upon sorting them it appeared that
Deacon Jonathan Brown
Gyles Harris Esqr.
Mr. Samuel Dyer
Cap'. John Pulling
Mr. William Lowder
Mr. John R. Sigorney
Mr. Moses May
were chose Assessors for the Year ensuing
On a Motion, Voted to reconsider the Vote for the choice of Con-
stables at 12. O. Clock Afternoon be the time Assigned for that
purpose
Moved, that a Committee be appointed to examine the Collect-
ors Books and make Report as soon as may be with respect to the
Sums they have Collected and paid into the several Treasuries —
and the Question being accordingly p'^t — Passed in the Afferma-
tive — also^
Voted, that Mr. Jonathan Mason
Mr. John Sweetser
Samuel Barret Esqr.
118 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
i
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid and said Committee are
also directed to make particular inquiry respecting the Moneys re-
ceived, and paid into the several Treasuries by Mr. Benjamin Cud-
worth a late Collector
Adjourned to 3. O. Clock P: M:
[381.] 3. O Clock P: M: Met according to Adjournment
Mr. Isaac Pierce one of the Committee appointed to consider
what Land shall be improved by the Town the present Year for
the raising of Vegitables Reported verbal!}'
That the Committee are of opinion it will be for the Interest of
the Town again to improve the Land at West Boston for raising
Vegitables and as much more as can be obtained
The Town having considered of the foregoing Report, it was
Voted, that a Committee be now appointed to improve the Lands
at West Boston for the raising of Vegitables, which were improved
for that purpose the last Year, and so much more Land as can be
obtained on the same conditions with the last, as the Committee
may Judge to be for the interest ami benefit of the Town — and
that the Committee consist of Seven Persons
Voted, that Mr. Samuel Brick
Mr. Isaack Pierce
Mr. Daniel Bell
/ Mr. Benjamin Edes
Mr. William Hoskius
Mr. William Frobisher
Cap'. Nathanel Patten
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
On a Motion made Voted, that there be remitted out of the
Fine laid upon such Persons as shall be chose into the Office of
Constables the present Year and declines serving the Sum of
Eighty Pounds
[382.] The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for Twelve
Constables, and upon sorting them it appeared, that
Mess". John Bryant excused
Sampson [Read] not sworn
Stephen Cook excused
Edward Wentworth not sworn
Daniel Parks
Jonathan Houghton - - excused
David Brewer d°.
Pool Spear
Jonah Knap ... excused
William Stagpole - - - - d°.
Benjamin Brown Jur. - - - d°.
Francis Biggelow - - - d°.
were chosen
Voted, that the Sum of one Shilling on the Pound, be and
hereby is allowed to the Persons who shall be chose Collectors of
Taxes the Year ensuing, for all such Sums as they shall Collect ;
provided they pay the same into the several Treasuries within
four Months, and nine Pence on the Pound on all such other
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 119
Sums as they shall have so paid into the Treasury on or before
the second Monday in March 1781 which Premium as above
expressed appears to be Just and equitable and an ample allow-
ance to the Collectors to encourage them to discharge their Duty
with diligence and fidelity ; provided also that each of said
Collectors give Bond with sufficient Sureties to the Satisfaction of
the Selectmen for the faithfull discharge of their duty in said
Office and Compyling with this Vote
[383.] The Committee appointed to consider the request of the
Town Treasurer and determin what allowances ought to be made
for past services Report
That they find the Treasurer, has not been paid for his Services
in the year 1775 and 1778. and for the Last Six Months — they
are of Opinion that eighty Pounds was due to him at the end
of the Year 1775 — for his services the preceeding Year — that
the allowance from the Town supposing Money had been Good in
1778 as formerly would probably have been £130 — and if the
same had been settled at the end of that Year the allowance for
depreciation ought to have been settled at the same rate with the
allowances made to other Officers of the Town but as by some
accident it was not done, the Committee are at a loss, and submit
to the consideration of the Town how much the Treasurer ought to
receive instead of the Sum of two hundred and ten Pounds due
to him for his said Services 1775. and 1778 — they are of Opinion
that he ought to receive for his services for Six Months ending
the first day of this Month — the Sum of nineteen hundred & fifty
Pounds
J LOWELL p Order
The foregoing Report having been read and considered — the
Question was put — Viz'. Whether this Report shall be accepted —
Passed in the Afferniative
The Committee appointed "to consider what further provision
is necessar}- for the Work House" — Report it as their Opinion,
that it is expedient to open the Work House under the direction
of the Overseers of the Poor — and that the said Overseers be re-
quested [384.] To lay before the Town an Estimate of the Sum
necessary for the purpose, that the Town may make a Grant ac-
cordingly
The foregoing Report having been read and considered, the
Question was put Viz'. — Whether the same shall be accepted —
Passed in the Affermative
On a Motion, Voted, that a Petition be preferred by ye. Town
to the General Assembly of the State now setting, that some
effectual Measures may be taken for the Protection of the Sea
Coasts
Voted, that Ellis Gray Esqr.
John Lowell Esqr.
Samuel Barret Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
On a Motion Voted, to reconsider the Vote passed relative to
raising Vegitables so far, as that the Seven Gentelmen chose a
Committee be excused from serving, and that two be now chosen
120 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Voted, that Cap'. Job Prince
Mr. Isaac Pierce
be a Committee instead of the seven chosen to carry the proceed-
ing Vote into execution
The Article in the Warrant. Viz', to consider what is necessary
to be done to accomodate the Youth of the South part of the
Town with a School House was read and Considered, whereupon
Voted, that Col°. Josiah Waters
Deacon John Preston
[385.] Mr. Joseph Barrel
Mr. Ebenezer Dorr
Deacon Samuel Dyer
be a Committee to consider further on this Matter and Request as
soon as may be
The Committee to draught a Petition to the General Assembly
relative to the Protection of the Sea Coast — Reported a draught,
and after some debate a Motion was made and carried, that the
Report be recomitted
Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to Fryday next 3.
O. Clock P: M
Tuesday March 24 : P: M: Met according to Adjournment
The Committee appointed to consider what steps it is necessary
for the Town to take relative to the Manure in the Streets — Re-
ported that it would be for the Advantage of the Town, to ap-
point a Committee to imploy Persons to rake up and collect all the
Manure and that said Committee be directed to dispose of it to
the best advantage keeping an account of all the Charges arising,
and to account with the Selectmen for the same on or before the
last of March 1781, giving the preferrence to the Inhabitants of
this Town in the disposal thereof
The foregoing Report having been read and considered, the
Question was put Viz4. — Whether the same shall be accepted —
Passed in the Negative
The Committee appointed to consider what is necessary to be
done for accomodation of the Youth of the South part of the
Town with a School house — Reported, and the same having been
read, after some debate it was
[386.] Voted, that said Report be Recommitted
The Overseers of the Poor who were directed to Report what
Sum would be necessary for the Work House, Reported as their
Opinion that a Sum not less than Twenty Thousand Pounds would
be Necessary to carry the design into effect
The foregoing Report having been considered, it was Voted,
that the same be accepted, and that the Sum of Twenty Thousand
Pounds mentioned in said Report be raised by a Tax upon Polls
and Estates within this Town, for the purpose aforesaid
Mr. Bigelow, Mr. Cook, Mr. Stagpoole — Col°. Brewer, Mr.
Knap, Mr. Houghton, Mr. Bryant — Mr. Brown, all of whom had
'been chose Constables for the Year ensuing, having desired
the Town to excuse them from serving in that Office for rea-
BOSTON TOAVN RECORDS, 1780.
121
sons by them respectively offered — they were, each of them
excused by the Town
The Committee appointed to examine into the State of the ac-
counts of the several! Collectors of Taxes, have attended that
service and Report as follows
That on examining Mr. Sumners Accounts find that he has
paid into the several Treasuries the -five first Taxes committed to
him to Collect amounting to - - £45338 -1-7
for which he has their Receipts
Out of which there should be to his Cr.
for Abatements £1827 14 10
for Commissions - - -•- '2 4 44 14 6
£4272 9 4
bro*. over
[387.] Since which he has paid on 6 Tax f
which was £40053 14 (
On which the Commissions, to be allowed
him is the balance thereof due to all the j"
Treasuries and on the 6th. Tax only will .be - (
£4272 9
24558 13
1227 18
9994 12
£40053 14
That there Appears to be outstanding
- - - by his Books on the first five Tax's
On the 6 '• Tax
£1015
12421
2 —
4 8
£13436 6 8 of
which it appears to the Satisfaction of the Committee that there
are several very considerable Sums which it was not in his power
to collect on Account of peculiar circumstances attending them —
On examination of Mr. Thompsons Account it appears that the
Severel Taxes committed to him to Collect being the 5th. & 6th.
only amounted to £65852 13 5
Of which he has paid into the Sev-
eral Treasuries the Sum of - -
The Commissions on which are -
there remains a ballance due
from him ------
£50852 13 4
2540 12 1
12459 7 8
£65852 13 4
To pay which Balance there are in Debts outstand-
ing the Sum of £9319 6 6
In which Mr. Thompson has recd. within a few [
Days \ 3573 6 -
And a Receipt of the Assessors for 355 10 -
Among the Debts there are four only amount6, in the whole to the
sum of £4704 — which' he has not been able to Collect
On examination of Mr. Shaws Acco1. that he stands indebted to
the State only the Sum of £5223 7 2
[388.] Has in outstanding debts £11481 9 —
122 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
On examining Mr. Torreys Acco1. it appears that
there is due to the State Treasurer - - - - £10131 6 11
To the Town Treasurer -- - 3055
13186 6 11
That there is due to him say for
Commissions £3761
Abatements 474 2 6
4235 2 6
Ballance due from him - - - 8951 4 o
15186 6 11
To pay which Ballauce there are in outstanding
Debts the sum of 14371 18 1
of which there are several Sums that Mr. Torrey cannot Collect
on Account of particular Circumstances
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for Four Collectors of
Taxes and upon sorting them it appeared that
Francis Shaw Esqr.
Mr. Benjamin Sumner Jur.
Mr. John Torrey
Mr. James Thompson
were chose Collectors for the year
The Committee to draught a, Petition to the General Court, Re-
ported verbally, that they had received such information as in
their opinion makes a Petition to be now needless
Which Report being put
Passed in the Affermative
[389.] Adjourned to Tuesday the 4th. Day of April next 3.
O: Clock P: M:
Tuesday April 4th. — 1 780 — 3. O: Clock P: M: met according
to Adjournment
Deacon Tudor in the Chair.
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. " To consider whether any
thing can be clone for the Relief of the Inhabitants greatly dis-
tressed by the Exorbitant Prices of the Necessaries of Life " —
was read, and after some consideration had thereon, it was moved
that the further consideration of this Article be referred over to
the next Town Meeting — and the Question being accordingly
put Passed in the Affermative
Mr. William Brick having in writing requested that he might be
excused from serving as a Warden into which Office he had been
chosen — he was accordingly excused by the Town
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for a Warden in the
room of Mr. Brick, and the same being Sorted it appeared that
Mr. Bossinger Foster
was chosen a Warden for the ensuing Year
The Committee appointed to examine the Accounts of Mr. Ben-
jamin Cudworth a late Collector of Taxes have attended that
Service and beg leave to Report
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 123
That it appears that the sum committed to him to Collect
Amounts by the Assessors Books to £23132.7.7
[39O'.] That he has paid into the several Treasuries as by
his Receipts for the same £17766.13.4
That the Abatements Amount
to £1060 6 2
His Commissions to - - 1000
2060 16 2
That the ballance clue from him ) QQA- ~ -,
•11 ^ a r ooOo t 1
will therefore Amount to \
£23.132.7.7
To pay which ballance of three thousand three hundred and five
Pounds seven Shillings and one penny, he has in out standing
Debts, about One thousand one hundred Pounds, a very incon-
siderable part of which only there is in the Opinion of the Com-
mittee any the least probability of his ever Collecting
Voted that the consideration of School Masters Salaries and
Grants be referred over to May Meeting
On a Motion made — Voted, that a Committee be now chosen
to take into consideration and Report as soon as may be what
they shall Judge to be adequate Grants to the Schoolmasters
Voted, that Ellis Gray Esqr.
Samuel Barret Esqr.
Ebenezer Storer Esqr.
Nathan1. Appleton Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
It not appearing to this Town that by a Certificate [391.]
From a Justice that any of the Constables chose at this Meeting
had been sworn into that Office within the time prescribed by Law,
though Notifications had been issued for that purpose by the
Town Clerk — The Inhabitants were therefore directed to with-
draw and bring in their Votes for twelve Constables, and the same
having been brought in and sorted it appeared, that the following
Persons were chose Constables for the Year ensuing — Viz'.
Messrs. Benjamin Edes
Adam Colson
John Fullerton
Thomas Green
Robert Wyer
John Kennedy
Pool Spear
John Jepson
Henry Davidson
Daniel Parks
Benjamin Homans
Benjamin White excused
The Committee appointed to consider what is necessary to be
done for the accommodation of the youth of the South part of the
Town with a School House — Reported verbally — That upon
enquirey they had found that the Widow Holbrook had a Room
which would accomodate about Seventy or Eighty Scholars, and
124 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
i
that they were of Opinion that if this Room could be obtained it
would be best to hire it for a School
Voted, that this Report be accepted, and that the Selectmen be
directed to agree with Mrs. Hoi brook for said Room as they shall
Judge for the Interest of the Town
[392.] The Article in the Warrant Viz'. "To consider what
is further necessary to be done relative to supplying the Families
of such Non Commissioned Officers-, and Soldiers as have engaged
in the Continental Service, conformable to a late Act of the Gen-
eral Court — was read and considered, whereupon it was moved
and Voted, that a Committee be appointed to take this matter
into consideration and Report at the Adjournment of this Meeting
— Also
Voted, that Mr. John Sweetser
Mr. Jonathan Mason
Jonathan Williams Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Adjourned to Tuesday next being the eleventh Day of April
Inst' : 3. O. Clock Afternoon
Tuesday the Eleventh Day of April 3. O. Clock in the After-
noon, Met according to Adjournment
Deacon Tudor in the Chair
The Committee relative to supplying the Families of such Non
Commissioned Officers and Soldiers, as have engaged in the Con-
tinental Service, and now reside in this Town, not being able to
Report, one of the Committee informed that the Honble. Thomas
Gushing Esqr. can put the Town into the method of drawing fur-
ther Provisions
The consideration of the Article in the Warrant relative to
the above mentioned Families, was again brought on and after
some debate, it was moved and
[393.] Voted, that the Sum of Twenty Thousand Pounds be
raised by a Tax upon Polls and Estates within this Town to be
carried into the Treasury, and appropriated for the supply of the
Families of the Non Commissioned Officers and Soldiers of the
Continental Army, who reside in this Town, the same to be paid
out by the Town Treasurer, unto Cap*. John Simkins the Com-
missary as there may be occasion, he to be accountable for the
same
Mr. Sampson Read chosen one of the Constables for the present
year, not having given in a Certificate of his being sworn before at
the last Adjournment,' another was then chosen in his Room ; not-
withstanding which the said Read appeared this afternoon in
Meeting and produced a Certificate from Mr. Justice 'Avery that
he had administred to him the Oath of a Constable, but he was
acquainted by the Moderator, that it was the sense of the Town,
that he could not be considered as a legal Constable
Voted that all Matters and things, which remain, unfinished at
this Meeting be referred over to the General Town Meeting in May
Next then to be considered, and acted upon
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be and hereby are given to
BOSTOX TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 125
John Tudor Esqr. Moderator Pro. Tern0, for his good Servicies iu
dispatching the Buissiness of the Meeting
Then the Meeting was dissolved
[394.] At a legal Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston being twenty one years of age and upwards, at
Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 3 Day of May Anno Domini 1780
- 10. O. Clock Forenoon
The Meeting was opened with Prayer by the Revd. Dr. Cooper
Warrant for calling the Meeting read
The Inhabitants were directed by the Selectmen to withdraw and
bring in their Votes for a Moderator of that Meeting, and the same
having been brought in and sorted it appeared that
The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. was chosen
The Address of the Convention for framing a new Constitution
of Government for the State of Massachusetts Bay to their Con-
stituents ; together with a Constitution or Fram of Goverment.
agreed upon by the Delagates of the People of this State in Con-
vention begun and held at Cambridge on the first of September
1779 and submitted to the Revision of their Constituents — were
distinctly read to the Inhabitants by the Moderator excepting the
Clause relative to Oaths &c. which was omitted, in consequence of
a Motion for that purpose
On a Motion. Voted, that the Resolves of the Convention passed
the second of May 1780 as in Page 53 [395.] Shall be the first
matter to be taken into consideration and acted upon at the
Adjournment
It was moved and Voted, that the Town Clerk signify to the
Delagates who Represent this Town in the Convention ; that their
attendance is requested during this Meeting
Adjourned to 3. O'Clock in the Afternoou
3. O'Clock afternoon met according to Adjournment
The Article in the 6th. Chapter relative to Oaths and Subscrip-
tions was read
The Resolve of the Convention passed the Second March 1780
as Page 53 — was again read, and after debate had thereon it was
moved and Voted, that the further consideration of this Matter be
postponed untill it is determined to what Place this Meeting shall
be Adjourned
On a Motion Voted, that a Committee be now appointed to pro-
vide a place for the Town to Meet at, when the Meeting shall be
Adjourned
Voted, that Mr. Jeremiah Belknap
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
Thomas Daws Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
[396.] Moved and Voted, that the preceeding Vote for tak-
ing up the Resolves of the Convention in the first place be recon-
sidered, and that the Article relative to Oaths and Subscriptions
be now considered
126 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
The Town however proceeded to the consideration of the Fram
of Goverment as Page 15 — and after debate had thereon a
Motion was made, and passed, that when this Meeting shall be
Adjourned, it shall be to the old Brick Meeting house the Place
provided for the Town by the Committee chosen in the Forenoon
It was then moved, ,and Voted, that the 2d. Chapter relative to
the Executive Power Section the first — be now taken up, a former
Vote, notwithstanding
The forementioned Article, having been some time under con-
sideration it was moved and Voted, that this Meeting be Ad-
journed, to to Morrow Afternoon. 3 O. Clock, then to Meet at the
old Brick Meeting House
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Thursday the 4th. day of May 1780. 3. O.Clock P: M: Met Ac-
cording to Adjournment
The Town having Voted to proceed to the consideration of the
Fram of Goverment Paragraph by Paragraph
[397.] The consideration of the first Chapter the Legislative
Power, Section 1st. The General Court Page 15 was taken up Arti-
cle by Article and the whole of said Section accepted, Nem. Cond.
The consideration of Section 2d. Page 18 — Senate — was taken
up Article by Article, and after considerable Debate was accepted
Nem: Cond: excepting the 3d Article, to which there was one Dis-
sentient
The consideration of Section 3d. Page 24 — House of Represent-
atives was taken up Article by Article. & the whole Accepted
Nem°. Con
The consideration of the 2d. Chapter Viz'. Executive Power, Sec-
tion 3d. Page 27 — Governor was taken up Article by Article, and
the whole of said Section accepted by the Town Neme. Con.
The consideration of the 2d. Section Page 35 — Lieutenant Gov-
ernor, was taken up Article by Article, and the whole of said
Section passed — Nem Con0.
The consideration of the 3d. Section Page 36 — Viz'. Council
and the Manner of settling Elections by the Legislature was
taken up, Article by Article — and the whole of said Section
passed Nem Cond.
The consideration of the 4th Section Page 38 — Viz'. — Secre-
tary, Treasurer, Commissary &c was taken up Article by Article,
and the whole of said Section passed Neme. Cond. — also
[398.] Voted, that it be and hereby is Recommended to the
Delagates who Represent this Town in the Convention, that a
Clause be inserted under the foregoing Section for limiting the
Time of Service of the Commissary General, in like manner as the
Time of Service of the Treasurer & Receiver General has been
Limited
The consideration of the 3d. Chapter — Viz'. Judiciary Power
as Page 39 — was taken up Article by Article — and the whole of
the Chapter accepted N C
The consideration of the 4th. Chapter Viz'. Page 40 — Viz'.
Delagates to Congress, was taken up and accepted Nerae. Cond.
BOSTOX TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 127
The consideration of the 5th Chapter Page 41 — Viz'. — The Uni-
versity at Cambridge, and Encouragement of Literature &c Section
the 1'. was taken up Article by Article, and the whole of said
Section Accepted Nem Con
The consideration of the 2d Section in Chapter 5 Page 43 Viz'.
— The encouragement of Literature was taken up, and accepted
Neme. Contd.
The consideration of the 6th. Chapter Page 44 — Viz'. Oaths
and Subscriptions, Incompatability of and exclusion from Offices ;
Pecuniary Qualifications; of Laws. Commissions, Writes ; Con-
firmations of Laws ; Habeas Corpus ; The Enacting Continuance
of Officers 1 Provision for a Future Revisal of the Constitution
&c — was taken up Article by Article and all accepted N. C sav-
ing the 7th. Article Page 49 — relative to the [399.] Write of
Habeas Corpus, and upon a Motion
Voted that John Lowell Esqr.
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Nath1. Appleton Esqr.
be a Committee to consider the same and Report at the Adjourn-
ment
On a Motion Voted, that the consideration of the Preamble to
the Declaration of Rights, be postponed and that the 3d. Article
in said Declarating Preamble thereto excepted shall be the last
Article to be acted upon at this Meeting — also
Voted, that the Declaration of Rights be now considered •
The Several Articles in the Declaration of Rights excepting as
aforesaid was Accordingly taken up and being duly considered,
were excepted, Article by Article Nem Con Saving the 16 Article,
and on a Motion Made
Voted, that John Lowell Esqr.
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Nath1. Appleton Esqr.
be a Committee to consider the propriety of Adding a Clause to
said Article for Securing freedom of Speach
Moved and Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned it shall
be to Monday Morning 9 O. Clock
[4OO.] On a Motion made Voted that it be recommended to
the Inhabitants of this Town to attend the Town Meeting at the
Adjournment next Monday Morning 9. O. Clock, and as matters
of the greatest consequence, respecting the Establishment of a
Constitution of Civil Goverment for this State, Will then be
Acted upon, it is most earnestly recommended that all Buissiness
be suspended by the shutting up of Stores, Shops &c that there
may be a full Attendance, and it is further
Voted, that the Ministers of the Gospel be requested to remind
their respective Congregations the next Lords day, of this Adjourn-
ment, and of the importance of universally withdrawing them
selves for a few hours from their ordinary Engagements, and
devoting their Attention to a Matter so deeply interesting to
themselves and their Posterity
Voted, that a Copy of this Vote be sent to the Ministers of
every Denomination
Then the Meeting was Adjourned to next Monday 9. O. Clock
128 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Monday the 8th. Day of May. 9. 6. Clock Forenoon — Met
according to Adjournment
The left Quarter of the upper Galary was Assigned by the
Moderator for Strangers, and Persons under twenty One years
of Age
On a Motion made Voted, that twelve Persons be appointed
Monitors and Cap1. Newell
[4O1.] Col°. Procter
Cap'. Parkman
James Brewer
John Lowel
John Lucas
John R. Sigorney
Cap'. John Simpkins
Adam Colson
Dr. Nath1. Noyes
Mr. Conent
Cap'. Stanton
were accordingly chosen
The Committee appointed to Consider and Report relative to the
Seventh and Sixteenth Articles, of the Bill of Rights Report —
That instead of the 16th. Article of the Bill of Rights, The same
should Stand as follows — Viz'. The Liberty of Speach and of the
Press with respect to publick men and their Publick Conduct and
Publick Measures, is essential to the Security of Freedom in a
State and shall not therefore be restrained in their Common
Wealth "
That instead of the 7th. Article of the 6th. Chapter it should
Stand as follows — Viz'. — "The Priviledge & Benefit oi the
"Write of Habeas Corpus shall be enjoyed in this Common
"Wealth, in the most free, easey, cheap, expeditious and ample
manner — and shah1, not be suspended except in time of War,
Invasion or a Time of Rebellion declared by the Legislature to
exist, nor for a longer Time than Six Months
[4O2.] The foregoing Report having been read and considered
— the Question was put. Viz1. Whether the Same, shall be ac-
cepted — Passed in the Affermative Neme. Cond. — It was Also
Voted, Neme. Cond. That the Delegates who Represent this
Town in the Convention be and hereby are Instructed to move to
the Convention at their Next Meeting that these alterations may
be come into
The Article the 7. relative to the Execluesive Power as Page 31.
being under consideration it was moved & Voted,
That the Delegates who Represent this Town in Convention be
and hereby are Instructed to Move to the Convention that the
following Clauses may be Added to the said 7th. Article Viz'. —
Or for the Defence of a Neighbouring State invaded or
threatend with immediate Invasion, and their Power to be granted
only in the Recess of the G-eneral Court
The Several Articles in the Constitution or Fram of Groverment
— agreed on by the Convention and by them proposed to the people
for their Approbation, rejection or Amendment (except the 3d.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780.
Article in the Bill of Rights and the 2d. Article of the le. Chapter
relative to the Mode of Electing Senators) having been consid-
ered, paragraph by Paragraph and accepted, as the several Arti-
cles stand amended, Article by Article — The whole was put, wlien
it was unanimously Voted, to accept the Same ; the Meeting then
consisting of Eight Hundred & Eighty Seven Voters
[4O3.] The 2d. Article of the I1. Chapter relative to the Mode
of Electing Senators — was then put — when it appeared that
Eight hundred Eighty Six were for accepting the said Article and
but one who was for rejecting it
A Motion was made to reconsider the preceeding Vote — but the
Motion did not obtain
It was moved and Voted that the consideration of the 3d. Article
in the Declaration of Rights, be referred to 3. OClock Afternoon
Adjourned to 3. O. Clock in the Afternoon
3 O. Clock P: M: Met according to Adjournment
The 3d. Article of the Bill of Rights was again taken into con-
sideration, and the debates continuing till it was dark — it was
moved, that the Meeting be Adjourned to to Morrow Morning 9.
OClock in the Forenoon and that the consideration of said Article
be then taken up. Paragraph by Paragraph
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Tuesday May 9th. — 9. O. Clock Forenoon — Met according to
Adjournment
Moved that the Consideration of the 3d. Article in the Declara-
tion of Rights, be taken up at large and that the Vote of the last
Evening for considering the Same Paragraph by Paragraph be
now reconsidered — and the Question being accordingly put —
Passed in the Affermative
[4O4.] The foregoing Article having been debated at large
it was Moved and Voted, that the same be now taken up Para-
graph by Paragraph
The Article being again considered in distinct Paragraphs, after
by debates it was moved, and Voted, that the further considera-
tion of this whole Article be referred to a Committee to Report
such alterations as they may Judge most convenient to the Sense
of the Town as discovered in the present debate
Voted, that John Lowell Ksqr.
Revd. Mr. Sillman
Revd. Docf. Cooper
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Perez Morton Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Adjourned to Wednesday next 9. O. Clock Forenoon
Wednesday May 10th. 9. O. Clock Forenoon — Met according to
Adjournment
The Committee to whom was referred the consideration of the
third Article in the Declaration of Rights — Reported the same
130 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
with such alterations as they Judged most consonant to the Sense
of the Town and is as follows — Viz'.
As the Happiness of a People and the Good Order ; and
[4O5.] Preservation of civil Goverment essentially depends upon
Piety, religion and morality ; and as these cannot be generally
deffusecl through a Community, but by the Publick Worship of
God, and Publick Instructions in Piety religion and morality,
Therefore to promote their happiness and to secure the good order
and preservation of their Goverment the People of this Common-
wealth have a right to invest their Legislative with Power ; to
Authorize and require all the Inhabitants of this Commonwealth
to make provision at their own expeuce for the Publick Worship
of God und for the support and maintainance of Publick Protest-
ant teachers of Piety, Religion and Morality who have not made
such provision voluntary, or who have not made voluntary pro-
vision for some other Publick religious Teacher or for the support
of some other Publick Worship within their commonwealth — And
the several Towns Parishes Precincts and other Bodies politick or
religious societies shall at all times have the exclusive right of
electing their Publick teachers and of contracting with them for
their support and maintaiuance ; provided nevertheless that the
minority of such Towns, Parishes Precincts and other Bodies
Politick or religious Societies shall not be bound by the voice of
the Majority in their electing their Publick Teachers or con-
tracting with them for their support, but such Minority may if
they see fit elect some other publick religious Teacher and Support
him And all Monies Assessed upon the Subject for the support
[4O6.] Of Publick Worship and of Publick religious Teachers
shall if he requires it be uniformely Applied to the support of the
Publick Worship which he may chuse to support: provided how-
ever that such Teachers shall bona " fide receive the same to his
own Use Otherwise such sum shall be appropriated to the use of
the Poor of any Parish or religious society that such Subject shall
chuse if he makes his Election within twelve Months, and if not
it shall be applied to the support of the Poor of the Parish or Pre-
cinct in which said Moneys were raised. And all Religious Sects
and Denominations Whatsoever, demeaning themselves Peaceably
and as good Subjects of the Commonwealth shall be equally under
the Protection of Law — And no Subordination of any one
Sect or denomination to another shall ever be established by
Law
The foregoing Report having been read, it was moved, and
Voted that a Question previous to the Report, being Acted upon.
Viz'. Whether there shall be anything further Added to the 2d.
Article in the Declaration of Rights, which relates to Religion —
And the Question being accordingly put — Passed in the Afferma-
tive, by a great Majority
The said Report being again taken up Paragraph by Paragraph —
and amended the same was Accepted by the Town
It was moved and Voted that when this Meeting shall be
Adjourned it be to 4. O.Clock P: M:
[4O7.] Moved that a Committee be appointed to bring in an
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 131
Article ill addition to the Article in the 43 Page — but the Motion
was withdrawn
Adjourned to 4: O. Clock F: M:
4: O: Clock : P: M: Met according to Adjournment
It was moved and carried that the foregoing Clauses be added
to the Report of the Committee on the 3d Article in the Declara-
tion of Rights Viz'. — " The foregoing however is not to be so
construed as to Nullify or iufring any express voluntary Contract
that hath been entered into between any Person or Persons, or
any Town Parish, Precinct or Body of Men on the one Part and
any Teacher or Minister of Religion on the other
The aforegoing Report of the Committee of the Committee on
the 3d. Article, which had been accepted paragraph by paragraph —
was put in the whole as amended — when it appeared that Four
hundred and twenty were for accepting the Report — and one
hundred and Forty against Receiving it
A Motion was then made that if the amendments proposed by
the Town cannot be obtained by their 'Delagates, that they then
shall be and hereby are Instructed to Vote for the 3d. Article in
the Declaration of Rights, as it stands in the Form laid before
the People — rather than the Article, should be lost at the next
Meeting of the [4O8.] Convention — And the Question being
put — it appeared that two hundred and seventy seven were in
faviour of the Motion, and one hundred and forty against it
On a Motion, Voted, to appoint a Committee to draw up the
reasons for the proposed Alterations in some Articles of the
Frame of a Constitution presented by the Convention ; and to
draught Instructions to our Delagates in the said Convention
Voted, that Perez Morton Esqr.
Mr. Samuel Eliot
William Tudor Esqr.
Mr. John Sweetser
Mr. Thomas Walley
be a Committee for the Purpose aforesaid
Adjourned to Fryday next. 3 O Clock P: M:
Fryday May 12. 3 O. Clock P: M met according to Adjournment
Mr. Morton had leave to withdraw his dissent to the passing the
Article which relates to the mode of electing Senators
The Preamble to the Constitution or Form of Goverment for
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, again read — whereupon
the Question was put — Viz*. Whether the Town do approve and
accept of the Same — passed in the Affermative
[4O9.J The Committee appointed to draw up reasons for
the proposed alterations in some Articles of the Constitution or
Form of Goverment laid before the Town, and also to draught
Instruction to our Delagates in the Convention — Report as fol-
lows — Viz1.
Gentlemen
The Town of Boston have Convened in a legal Meeting to
consider the Constitution or Forms of Goverment agreed on by the
132 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Convention, & by them proposed to the People for .their Approba-
tion, rejection, or amendment, having had the same repeatedly
read proposed to a discussion of the Several Articles theircin
contained and having recommended amendments in the 16th.
Article of the Declaration of Rights, in the 7th. Article of the 2d.
Chapter in the 4th. Section of the 2d. Chapter & in the 7th. Article
of the 6th. Chapter unanimously voted to accept said Constitution
or Form of Groverment with the Amendments, the third Article
in the Declaration of Rights excepted, provided by the most
Strenious endeavours of their Delegates the said Amendments can
be procured, otherwise to accept the said Articles as they were
agreed to by the Convention, But the 3d . Article in the Declaration
of Rights was refered to futer consideration ; the meeting then
consisting of eight hundred and eighty seven Voters — The Town
then proceeded to consider the 3d. Article ; which having been
largely debated, was amended and Voted, 420 for & 51 against
it. It was then moved and seconded, that if you could not
obtain this Article as amended, you should be impowered to
Vote for [41O.] The 3d. Article as it originally stood rather
than the Amendment should be the Means of postponing the
establishment of the Constitution at the next Meeting of the Con-
vention ; as some Form was necessary to give Stability and force
to Goverment. The Question being put the numbers were 277 for
and 140 against it. Your utmost exertions are nevertheless ear-
nestly enjoined to obtain the Amendments A principle of respect
to a Body of Men of such distinguished rank and Ability as the
Convention would not assuredly have led the Town to Assign the
reasons for any alterations they might make in a system they had
formed and recommended. But as the Convention have requested
the doing it, it is now to be performed on a higher Principle. In
general it may be Observed that the Amendments proposed were
made upon the idea that they would more effectually subserve the
excuse of Civil and Religious Liberty, that great object of our
endeavours, and the point to which all our efforts ought to tend,
The Amendment of 16th. April of the Declerations of Rights, was
made upon the strongest persuation, that Liberty of Speech, as it
respected publick Men in their publick Conduct, was an essential and
darling right of every member of a free State upon which in a very
emenent Degree the preservation of their other reights depends ;
that nothing spoken with design to give information of the State
of the Publick should be ever subject to the smalest restraint ;
and that any Attempt to oppose such restraint ought to excite an
alarm in the People as it inf ered a consciousness of dement on the
part of those Attempting [411.] That such restraint was
more degrading and more Strongly marked the Slaves than ever
the privation of the Liberty of the Press ; and that the latter, so
absolutely necessary, and therefore so justly dear to every free
State could not be maintained in its full force and vigour without
the foi'mer. But while we hold up the Liberty of the Press, as
essentially necessary to general Freedom, as it respects publick
Men and Measures we reject with Abhorrence the idea of its abuse
to the injury of private Characters. — The next amendment gives
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. ' 133
Power to the Governor, in the recess of the General Court, to
march or transport, the Inhabitants of this State for the relief of
a Neighbouring State invaded or threatened with immediate in-
vation. This was judged incumbent on the general Principles
of humanity, and absolutely necessary upon the Principles of
Policy, A threatn'd invastion may be wholly prevented by the
early appearance -of a respectable Military force and Invation
actually begun may be easally repeled, in many Instances by an
immediate Opposition. In the former case, the Lives & Property
of our Friends & Neighbours may be entirely saved & Secured ;
and in the Latter case fewer lives may be lost In all Probability,
and less Property Destroyed, Besides delay may give oppertunity
to an Enemy (so disposed) to take Post, and establish himself in
such a manner as would require a very great force to remove him
while an early force might be adequate to his immediate ex-
pulsion. Further the withholding immediate aid, may open
a passage into our own State, and to bring the War to our own
doors. — It was also suggested, that the Article, of Confedera-
tion bound us to grant immediate relief, which can only be
Obtained by [4:12.] Vesting the Governor with such power,
and was therefore Voted, — The next amendements respects
the time of service of the Commissary General which is pro-
posed to be limited to the Term of Five years. This was done
because it was apprehended that a change or relation of Officers
was necessary, in general to the preservation of Freedom.
Persons longe in Office are apt to lose that sence of Dependance
upon the People, which is essential to keep them within the Line
of duty to the Publick. And especially may the good of the
Community be promoted by the retirements of such Persons from
Office at certain fixed periods, who have been largely intrusted
with Publick Money or Stores — The next Article respects that
important Write of Habeas Corpus. Many Reasons might be
given for the Alterations made. It was judged best to confir the
Suspension of this security of personal Liberty or freedom from
Imprisonments to times of War, invation and rebellion, the terms
urgent and pressing occations, being too indefinite and giving
scope to the most powerfull Engine of Despotism, and Slavery.
It was not conceived that any cause could possibly exist in time
of peace, that could justify imprisonments without allegation or
charge ; and the granting a Power in a season of tranquility liable
to such gross abuse, and which might be attend with consequences
destructive of the dearest priviledges and best interest of the Sub-
ject was deemed incompatable with every Principle of Liberty.
Nay it was apprehended that it might Opperate as an incentive to
Despotism ; and to hold up a temtation [413.] to Tyranny while
human Nature is constituted as we find it was judged to be wholly
inexpedient. Confineing the suspencion won in time of War, in-
vation and rebellion, to Six Months, was supposed a proper
Limetation, as every purpose of an honest Government might be
fully answered, in that period. A larger pereod might lead to
a State of forgetfullness of the unhappy Subject of Suspission,
and he might Drag on a Wretched being in the Dark abode of a
134 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Dungion, or within the gloomy walls of a Prison, without a Single
Ray of hope to enlighten his cell or a single Friend to chear his
Desponding spirit. Thus may his dreadfull Confinement when
the Reason that operated to his Commitment have been long done
away. Can a Power pregrant with such mighty Evils be too
Strongly guarded ; Or can we be too solicetious to confine it within
the narrow limits that will comport with the Publick safety ? —
The only Article now to be attended to is the third in the Decele-
ration of Rights, which Asserts that Piety, Religion and morality
are essential to the happiness, Peace and Good order of a People
and that these Principles are diffused by the Publick Worship of
God, and by Publick Instructions &c — and in Consequence makes
provision for their support. The alterations proposed here which
3'ou will Lay before the Convention were designed to Secure the
Reights of Consience and to give the fullest Scope to religious
Liberty In support of the proposition it urged that if Publick
Worship and Publick teaching, did certainly (as was allowed)
defuse a general Sence of Duty & moral Obligations, and, so
secured the safety of our [414.] Persons and Properties, we
ought chearfully to pay those from whose agency we derived such
Advantages. But we are Attempting to support (it is said) the
Kingdom of Christ ; It may as well be said we are supporting the
Kingdom of God, by institution of a Civil Goverment, which De-
clared to be an Ordinance to the Deity, and so refuse to pay the
civil magistrate. What will be the consequence of such refusal —
The greatest disorders, if not a Dissolution of Society. Suspend
all provision for the inculation of Morality, religion and Piety, and
confusion & every evil work may be justly dreaded; for it is
found that with all the Restraints of religion induced by the
Preaching of Ministers, and with all the Restraints of Goverment
inforced by civil Law, the World is far from being as quiet an
abode as might be wished. Remove the former by ceasing to
support Morality, religion and Piety and it will be soon felt that
human Laws were f eble barriers opposed to the uninformed lusts of
Passions of Mankind. But though we are not supporting the
kingdom of Christ may we not be permitted to Assist civil society
by an addoption, and by the teaching of the best set of Morals
that were ever offered to the World. To Object to these Morrals,
or even to the Piety and Religion we aim to inculcate, because
they are drawn from the Gospel, must appear very singular to an
Assembly generally professing themselves Christians. Were
tliis really our intention, no Objection ought to be made to it
provided, as in fact the case that equal Liberty is granted to,
every religious Sect and Denomination [415.] Whatever, and
it is only required that every Man should pay to the support of
Publick Worship In his own way. But should any be so Consci-
entious that they cannot pay to the support of any of the various
denominations among us they may then alott their Money to the
support of the Poor — It remains only to fix the time when this
Form of Goverment shall take place ; But having had large expe-
rience of your Ability and Zeal in the course of the very lengthy
Session of Convention, the last Winter we very Chearfully leave
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 135
the Determination of this point to that prudence, Judgement and
Integrity, which have so strongly marked your conduct in this
Department and to the united Wisdom of the whole Body.
The foregoing Report of the Committee having been read and
considered — the Question was put — Viz1. "Whether the same
shall be accepted, by the Town " — Passed in the Affermative,
almost unanimously
The Resolves of the Convention, passed the 2d. March having
been read and considered — whereupon
Voted, almost unanimously that the Selectmen of this Town be
directed to transmit to the Secretary of the Convention the doings
of this Town relative to the Form of Goverment agreeable to the
Resolves of Convention ; in order, to the Secretary of Convention
laying the same before a Committee to be appointed for the pur-
pose of examining and [4:16.] Arranging them for the Rivision
and consideration of the Convention at the Adjournment ; with
the Number of Voters on each side of every Question, in order
that the said Convention at the Adjournment may Collect the gen-
eral sense of their Constituents on the several parts of the pro-
posed Constitution ; and if it do not appear to be two thirds* of
their Constituents in faviour thereof, that the Convention may
alter it in such a manner as that it may be Agreeable to the sen-
timents of two thirds of the Voters throughout the State, also
Voted, almost unanimousley the Delegates of this Town be and
hereby are impowered at the next Session of the Convention ; to
agree upon a time when this Form of Goverment shall take Place
without returning the same again to the People : Provided that
two thirds of the Male Inhabitants of the Age of twenty one
years and upwards, Voting in the Several Towns and Plantations
Meeting, shall agree to the Same, or the Convention shall conform
it to the Sentements of two thirds of the People as aforesaid
A Motion made, that this Meeting be now dessolved
And the Meeting was accordingly dissolved.
[417.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned, in Pub-
lick Town Meeting Assembled at Faneiuel Hall on Tuesday the
16th. Day of May Anno Domini 1780. 10. 0. Clock Forenoon
Prayer was made by the Revd. Mr. Eliot
The Precept and Warrant for calling the Meeting - -
read
Sundry Laws read
The Town having determined to choose seven Persons to Repre-
sent them in the Great and General Court or Assembly to be held
at the Town House in Boston upon Wednesday the 3le. Day of
May Current — The Inhabitants were accordingly directed to
withdraw and bring in their Votes for Seven Representatives, and
then it was declared by the Selectmen, that no Votes would be
received, but such as are unfolded, and that they Propose the
Poll shall be closed at 12 O. Clock
The Votes being brought in for Seven Representatives, the
136 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Number of the same were found to be three hundred and Sixty
Six, and upon sorting them it appeared that the following Persons
were chose — Viz'.
The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. 388 Excus'd
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr. - 355
[418.] Caleb Davis Esqr. - - 365
Thomas Daws Esqr. 357
Ellis Gray Esqr. 192 Excus'd
John Lowell Esqr. 361
Thomas Walley 202
The choice of Representatives, being over and declared by the
Selectmen the Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in
their Votes for a Moderator of. this Meeting in order that the
Town may proceed in transacting the Other Affairs mentioned in
the Warrant ; accordingly the Inhabitants withdrew and brought
in their Votes, and upon sorting them it Appeared that
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr. was chosen
Adjourned to 3. O. Clock in the Afternoon
3. O'Clock Afternoon met according to Adjournment
Mr. Clement Collins Junr. was chose a Measurer of Boards for
the Year ensuing
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for one Constable in the
room of Mr. Benjamin White who declines serving, and upon sort-
ing them it appeared that Mr. Jonathan Loring was Chosen
Ellis Gray having sent in his excuse in writing for not serving
the Town as one of their Representatives in the General Assembly,
it was moved and Voted, that the Choice of a Representative in
his room be postponed till the Adjournment
[419.] The Clause in the Warrant Viz1. — To consider
whether Instructions shall be given to the Representatives, that
may be chosen — was read and after some debate thereon it was
moved, and Voted, that the further consideration of this matter
be referred to the Adjournment of this Meeting
The Clause in the Warrant. Viz*. — "To determin what is
proper to be done with respect to the North Battery" — was
read whereupon, it was moved and carried that a Committee be
now chosen to consider this Article, and Report as soon as may be
what they Judge best for the Town to do thereon
Voted, that Col°. Barber
Mr. Nathan Frazier
Mr. John Ballard
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid also
Voted, that said Committee be directed to make enquirey and
search into the Town Title to the Land at and near North Battery
On a motion made Voted, that the Town Clerk issue a Warrant
to the Constables, for notifying again such persons as have been
chosen into Office, and have neglected to qualify themselves as
the Law directs by taking the Oath of Office
The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. came into Meeting and Ac-
quainted the Town that he had Just been regularly notified of the
Honour they had done him in [42O.] Electing him one of their
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 137
Representatives in the General Assembly ; that as he could not
suppose them to be unacquainted with his intention to repair to
Philadelphia to attend his duty as a Member of Congress, he
could not but feel very sensibly the Particular mark of respect
with which the Town had honoured him in this Election : that he
had always served them to the utmost of his capasity with the
greatest alacrity and should be happy in still considering himself
tho. at Congress as not altogether out of the service of a Town
that makes so respectable a part of the State of Massachusetts,
he concluded that as it was probable he should be Absent from
this State the greatest part of the Year it was therefore his desire
that another Representative might be Elected in his room where-
upon it was
Voted, that Mr. Adams be excused from serving as a Represent-
ative
Voted, that the choice of a Representative in the room of Mr.
Adams for serving be referred to the Adjournment
The Committee appointed to consider of proper and adequate
Grants to the Schoolmasters, Report as their Opinion — That they
ought to receive the same Sum in Specie as was allowed them in
the Year 1774 — or a Sum in Paper Money equal to the Exchange
said Exchange to be settled by the Selectmen at the date of these
Draughts for payments according to the rate of Gold and
Silver — and that the Master of the North Writing School have
an additional allowance of fourteen Pounds p Annum for House
[421.] Rent or the Exchange as aforesaid
After some debate on the foregoing Report it was moved and
Voted, that the consideration of this Report be referred to the
Adjourment
Adjournment to Tuesday the 23d. Day of May Instant 10.
O'Clock Beforeuoou
Tuesday the 23d. Day of May 10. OClock Forenoon, met ac-
cording to adjournment
The Meeting for the choice of two Representatives in the room
of Mr. Adams and Mr. Gray who had declined serving, being Ad-
journed to this time — Mr. Scollay Chairman of the Selectmen in
their Name directed the Inhabitants to withdraw and bring in
their Votes for two Representatives, and their it was declared that
no Votes would be received, but such as are unfolded
The Votes being accordingly brought in the number of the same
were found to be two hundred, and upon sorting them it appeared,
that the two following Persons were chose — Viz'.
Mr. Samuel Austin ------ 101
Ezekiel Price Esqr. 180 (excused)
The choice of two Persons as Representatives being over and
declared by the Selectmen
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr. the Moderator of the Meeting
for transacting the other Affairs mentioned in the Warrant, again
took the Chair
[422.] The Article in the Warrant Viz*. "To consider
whether Instructions shall be given to the Representatives that
138 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
may be chosen, was read and after some debate had thereon it
was
Voted, that a Committee shall now be chosen to draw up In-
structions for the Gentelmen chosen to represent this Town in the
General Assembly to Report a Draught tit the Adjournment of this
Meeting —
Voted, that Ellis Gray Esqr.
Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr.
Mr. Leonard Jarvis
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Voted, this Meeting be Adjourned to Wednesday 9. OClock
Forenoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Wednesday 9. O. Clock Beforenoon — Met according to Ad-
journment
Ezekiel Price Esqr. one of the Gentelmen chosen to Represent
this Town having by his desire been excused from serving — Mr.
Scollay Chairman of the Selectmen in their Name directed the In-
habitants to withdraw, and bring in their Votes for one Repre-
sentative, and that it was declared that no Votes will be received
but such as are unfolded
The Votes being accordingly brought in and [423.] Sorted, it
appeared that the Number of Votes were one hundred and fifty
Three, and that John Rowe Esqr. - - - 144 was chosen
The choice of a Representative in the Room of Ezekiel Price
Esqr. who had declined serving, being over and delivered by the
Selectmen
The Honble. John Hancock Esqr. the Moderator of the Meeting
for transacting the Other affairs mentioned in the Warrant, again
took the Chair
The Committee to consider what is proper to be done on the
Article in the Warrant which respects the North Battery, Reported
verbally
That it appeared to the Committee to be for the Interest of the
Town, that the Battery Estate should be Leased or otherwise im-
proved for the benefit of the Town, and the Committee asked
leave to Report further — whereupon
Voted, that the Committee aforesaid be desired to Report fur-
ther, as soon as may be
The Selectmen a Committee to procure a Room for the accom-
modation of the Youth of the South part of The Town, in the
room of the School House lately consumed by Fire — Reported
That they could not obtain a proper Building for a School, and
that they had therefore — caused a plan to be drawn for a suitable
Building for that purpose which with an Estimate of the charge
thereof, they beg'd leave t6 lay before the Town for their con-
sideration whereupon
[42-4.] Voted, that the consideration of this Report and what
is proper to be done thereon, be referred over to the Adjourn-
ment of this Meeting
BOSTOX TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 139
The Committee of Eighteen relative to purchasing of Grain &c
Reported verbally
That they are not at present ready for closing their Accounts
with Mr. Van Ranselier of N York, who had been employed by
them in purchasing Grain, but that they hoped they should be able
to Report and lay their Doings before the Town at the Adjourn-
ment — on a Motion
Voted, that when this Meeting be Adjourned it be to Wednes-
day the 14 Day of June next. 10. O'Clock Forenoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned
in publick Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuiel Hall the 9th. Day
of June 1780. 3 O. Clock. P: M:
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw, and bring in their
Votes for a Moderator, and the same having been brought in and
sorted, it appeared that
John Tudor Esqr.
was chosen, unanimously
[425.] The Article in the Warrant Viz'. — "To consider
and determine upon the most expeditious, and equal way of rais-
ing this Towns proportion of Men for the Continental Army as
required by a Resolve of the General Court" —was read, as also
the Resolve of the General Court passed the 5th. Day of June
Current" — was read, as also the Resolve of the General Court
mentioned above — whereupon it was moved, and
Voted, that whatever charge may arise on raising the Towns
proportion of Men, over and above the encouragement given by
Goverment, shall be defreyed by a Town Tax
Voted, that the Sum of One hundred Thousand Pounds, be
raised by a Tax upon Polls and Estates within this Town for the
sole purpose of carrying on the War, the same to be added to the
next Tax — also
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be and he hereby is impowered
to borrow a Sum of Money not exceeding One hundred thousand
Pounds to be appropriated for the purpose of carrying on the
War, and that he give his Negotiable Note to the respective
Lenders on Interest for the Sums by them advanced the same to
be paid out of the aforesaid Tax as it shall be brought into the
Treasury
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be and he hereby is directed to
pay unto Edward Proctor Esqr. Col°. of the Boston Regiment,
such sums as may be Necessary to defray the Bounty that may be
given the [426.] Men which shall be Inlisted, as also, the
Selectmen of the Town, what may be Sufficient to pay the Men
that shall be raised their Mileage
The Article in the Warrant Viz*. — "To consider and determin
upon the most expeditious and equal way of Providing the Towns
proportion of Shirts, Shoes, Stockings and Blankets for the
140 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Army agroable to a Resolve of the General Court passed the
21st. of April last — was read — whereupon
Voted, that Isaac Smith Esqr.
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
John Tudor Esqr.
Samuel Brick Esqr.
Herman Brimmer
be a Committee to consider and Report thereon at the Adjournment
Adjourned to Wednesday next beiug the 14th. of June Ins', at
3 OClock Afternoon
Wednesday the 14th. of June — 3 O. Clock P: M: Met accord-
ing to Adjournment
The Committee appointed to consider and determin on the most
expeditious and equal way of providing the Towns proportion of
Shirts Shoes Stockings and Blankets for the Arm}' beg leave to
Report, that they are of opinion that the best & most expeditious.
Method is to desire the Selectmen to purchase said Articles, on
the best terms and as soon [427.] as possible, the Selectmen to
be furnished with Money for that purpose out of the Town Treas-
urey and in case there should not be Money Sufficient in the
Treasurey, to choose a Committee of three in each Ward to waite
on Gentelmen of Property desiring them to Advance the Town
what Money they can possibly spare the Money so advanced to be
discounted out of the Tax now issuing — ISAAC SMITH p Order
The foregoing Report having been read and considered, the
Question was put Whether the same shall be accepted — Passed in
the Affermative — also
Voted, that the Sum of One hundred Thousand Pounds be
raised by a Tax on Polls & Estates within this Town for the Sole
purpose of carrying on the War, the same to be added to the Tax
of £100,000 — already granted — also
Voted, that Committees be appointed in each Ward for procur-
ing Subscriptions for Loaning and immediatley paying into the
Treasurey the two Hundred Thousand Pounds, for the purposes
mentioned in the foregoing Votes
Voted, that the several Companies of the Boston Militia be de-
sired, to appoint at their respective Meetings to be on Thursday
next, three Persons out of each Company to procure the Subscrip-
tions aforesaid
Voted, that the following be the head of a Subscription Paper
for each Company of the Militia — Viz'.
[428.] The Town of Boston having by a Late Vote deter-
mined that the Charge of raising their proportion of Men for the
Continental Army over and above the encouragement given by
Goverment shall be defreyed by a Town Tax — and having also
Voted to borrow a Sum of Money not exceeding two hundred
Thousand Pounds, for the purpose of paying the Men to be raised
their Bounty and Miladge, and also for procuring Shirts, Blankets,
Shoes & Stockings as required of the Town by a late Resolve of
the General Assembly ; which Money as borrowed is to be paid
into the Town Treasurer for which the Treasurer is to give negoti-
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 141
able Notes to the respective Lenders on Interest, which Notes are
to be discharged out of the aforesaid Tax as it shall be brought
into the Treasury — therefore
We the Subscribers apprehending it to be of the last importance,
at the present Crisis that our proportion of Men be immediately
raised and the proper Supplies forwarded — hereby chearfully en-
gage to furnish the respective Sums set against our Names
Voted, that Edward Procter Esqr. Colonel of the Boston Regi-
ment be furnished with one fair Copy for each Company in said
Regement
Moved that Col°. Procter be desired not to exceed £1000 — in
the offer of a Town Bounty to the Men that are to be raised " —
and the Question was put — Passed in the Negative
[439.] Voted, that it be Left to Col°. Proctor to procure this
Towns proportion of Men to reinforce the Continental Army, on
the best terms he is able
Voted, that this Meeting when Adjourned, be to Fryday next
3. O: Clock P:M:
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Fryday June 16th. — 3. O. Clock Afternoon — Met according to
Adjournment
On a Motion made — Voted, that when this Meeting is Ad-
journed it shall be to Monday next being the 19th Instant — 3
O: Clock Afternoon
On a Motion made, Voted, that the several Captains of the
Boston Militia be desired to Notify their respective Companies,
that the Meeting relative to raising our proportion of Men for the
Continental Army, Stand Adjourned to Monday Next — when it
is hoped, that they will give a very general Attendance
Then the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Monday the 19th of June. 3. O. Clock P: M: Met according to
Adjournment
Deacon Tudor in the Chair
There being but very few of the Inhabitants at this Meeting —
A Motion was made — :That the [43O.] Sense of the Town
or Inhabitants, be taken as to the expedienc}' of proceeding to
Buissiness — after some debate — the Motion was withdrawn
Cap'. Hodson of the Militia moved, that a Committee be now
appointed for the purpose of raising.the Towns proportion of Men
for the Continental Army, and that the Committee set at Fanuiel
Hall so long as Col°. Proctor shall think it expedient — and that
no higher sum than the £1000 — be Offered as a bound}' — the
Motion being Seconded — after some Debates had thereon — the
same was withdrawn
It was then moved and Voted, that it be recommended to Col°.
Proctor not to go beyond One Thousand Pounds p Man as a
Boundy to such Persons as shall Inlist — also
Voted, that Col°. Proctor be desired to Collect of the Committee
of the several Militia Companies appointed to procure Subscrip-
tions the Amount of those Subscriptions and lodge the same with
142 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
the Town Clerk a Day before the Adjournment of this Meeting
in order to their being then laid before the Town
Adjourned to Fry clay next 3. O. Clock Afternoon
Fryday the 23d. Day of June 3. OClock Afternoon met accord-
ing to Adjournment
[431.] Deacon Tudor in the Chair
Col0. Procter agreeable to the request of the Town, laid before
the Meeting the Subscriptions for raising Men, amounting as bv
Copy on file £140.500
Moved and Voted, that a Committee be now appointed to wait
upon the Gentelmen of the Town, in order to procure Subscrip-
tions to the Amount of One hundred fifty nine thousand five hun-
dred Pounds, in Addition to the Sum of £140,500 — already
Subscribed for the Sole purpose of carrying on the War
Voted, that Mr. Nathan Frazier
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
Samuel Broom Esqr.
be a Committee for the the Purpose aforesaid
Voted, that the further Sum off One hundred Thousand Pounds
be raised by a Tax upon Polls and Estates within this Town in
Addition to the Sum of £200,000 already granted for the Sole
purpose of carrying on the War
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be and he hereby is impowered
to borrow on Interest a Sum of Money not exceeding two hun-
dred thousand Pounds in addition to the £100,000 — already Voted
to be borrowed, for the purpose of carrying on the War, and that
he give his Negotiable Notes to the respective Lenders on Interest
for the Sum by them Advanced, the same to be paid out of the
aforesaid Tax as it shall be brought into the Treasurey
[432.] On a Motion made. Voted, that
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
Mr. Joseph Barrel
Mr. Leonard Jams
be added to the Committee appointed to procure Subscriptions for
the Sole purpose of carrying on the Wai-
Adjourned to Wednesday next 3 OClock Afternoon
Wednesday June 28th. — 3 0. Clock Afternoon Met according to
Adjournment
A number of Jurymen, were chosen, and drawn for the next
Inferior Court, as will appeared entered in the Jury Book
The Committee appointed to procure Subscriptions agreeable to
a Vote of the late Meeting — Reported verbally — That they
had Collected of the Inhabitants for the Sole purpose of carrying
on the War twenty six thousand Pounds, since the former Sub-
scription — They also acquainted the Town that there had
been Collected of the Inhabitants by a Committee of the General
Court for the use of this State, One hundred and forty thousand
four hundred and Seventy Pounds
It Was moved that That the severall Collectors of this Town
.lay before the Inhabitants, at the Adjourment of this Meeting a
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 143
List of such Taxes as has not yet been paid the Persons from whom
they were [433.] coming having been called upon for the same
In the Course of the debate such Objections were stated as in-
fluensed to the Motions being withdrawn
On a Motion Voted that when tbis Meeting is Adjourned it shall
be to Thursday Morning 10. O. Clock
Voted, that directions be given for ringing all the Bells in Town
from one quarter of an Houre before 10. O. Clock the Hour of the
Adjournment
Voted, that the Coostables of the Town be directed, by the
Town Clerk to Notify the Inhabitants of the Adjournment, and to
press their attendance
Then the Meeting was Adjourned
Thursday the 29th. Day of June 10. O. Clock Forenoon — Met ac-
cording to Adjournment
On a Motion a Paper called the Crisis N°. 9 was read to the In-
habitants
The Committee appointed to procure Subscriptions agreeable to
a Vote at the late Meeting Reported
That the Subscription List for anticipating the Tax for the
State laid on this Town to be called in by the 15th. of July next
amounts to £145,320 — the Sum Subscribed in the Several Wards,
for paying Bounties & Amounts to £150,000 and the Sum Sub-
scribed to the Committee of which Mr. Appleton is Chairman for
the same use amount to £27,400
[434.] That there remains to be Subscribed for the State
£161,680 - - - for the Town £123,000 in the whole £284,680
That the Committee are of Opinion that it will be eligible that
the Subscription List be kept open till Saturday next 10. O. Clock in
the Hands of Mr. Walley for the State, and Mr. Appleton for the
Town ; and it cannot be thought that the Inhabitants are so desti-
tute of all regard to their Country, their Brethren in Arms, or to
their own Safety as to withold their support on this Interesting
occasion — The Committee beg leave to set till said time to com-
pleat their Report
Moved and Voted, that a Committee be appointed to Collect
from the Several Captains and the Collectors the Sums Subscribed
in the several Wards, and to lay a List of the Subscribers before
a Committee of the Town, to be appointed to receive the Same
Ward.
Voted, that Nath1. Barber N°. 1
Jedediah Parker - 2
Cap1. John Ballard - .... 3
John Cogswell -- 4
Cap'. William Mackay 5
John Lowell --------- 6
Nathan Frazier -------- 7
Cap1. Kneeland 8
Mr. Clark 9
Cap*. Boyls - 10
Cap4. Cook 11
Henry Bass --------- 12
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
144 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
[435.] On a Motion Voted that the Collectors of Taxes be
desired to attend with their Tax Books at the Adjournment
A Motion made and carried that a Committee be appointed to
receive the Reports of the forenamed Committee of Twelve, and
also to devise Ways and Means for immediately compleating the
Recruits and Supplies for the Array
Voted, -that Sam1. Allen Otis Esqr.
Samuel Barret Esqr.
Nath1. Appleton Esqr.
Mr. Leonard Jarvis
Col°. Waters
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Voted that when this Meeting is Adjourned, it be to 4. OClock
Afternoon
Voted that the Town Cryer be employed to inform the Inhabi-
tants of the Adjournment, and the Important Business then to
come before the Town
Adjourned to 4. O: Clock Afternoon
3. OClock P: M: Met according to Adjournment
The Committee appointed in the Forenoon to devise ways and
means for the immediate compleatiug of the Recruits and Sup-
plies— Reported as entered Page 122 in the Quarto-Book —
which Report having been read and considered — the Question
was put — [436.] AVhether the same shall be accepted — Passed
in the Affermative
Moved and Voted, that the Committee appointed to procure
Subscriptions &c be desired to go into the Selectmen's Chamber,
that such Persons as have not Subscribed might now have an
oppertunity of doing it, as well as those who incline to enlarge their
Subscriptions on so interesting an Occasion
Voted, that Col°. Johonuot
Col°. Waters
be added to said Committee
Adjourned to Saturday the 1 Day of July 10. O. Clock Forenoon
Saturday the 1'. Day of July 10 O'Clock Forenoon— Met
according to Adjournment
Deacon Tudor in the Chair
On a Motion — Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned it
shall be to Thursday the 6th. Day of July, 3. O. Clock Afternoon
Voted, that the Town Clerk Issue a Warrant to the Constables,
to Notify the Inhabitants of this Adjournment, and the importance
of a general attendance also
Voted, that the Town Clerk publish in the several News Papers
that this Meeting stands Adjourned to Thursday the 6 Day of
July Ins1. 3. O. Clock [437.] Afternoon — princepally for the
Purpose of receiving the Subscriptions of the Inhabitants for the
Advance of their Taxes, which they will be oblidged to pay by
the thirteenth of July Current, and that such of the Inhabitants
as have not Subscribed for the purpose aforesaid and shall absent
BOSTOX Towx RECORDS, 1780. 145
themselves from said Adjournment, will be considered as declin-
ing any exertions to assist the Publick — also that is earnestly
desired, of the Subscribers and Inhabitants to give a General and
punctual Attendance — also the Subscription Papers will lay open
with Mr. Walley and Mr. Appleton
Then the Meeting was Adjourned to the said 6th. Day of July,
3. O. Clock P: M
Thursday the 6th. Day of July 3 O.Clock Afternoon — Met ac-
cording to Adjournment
Deacon Tudor in the Chair
The Committee appointed to procure Subscriptions, Reported to
the Town that the Subscriptions amount to £31,850 - - -
Moved and Voted, that the Assessors be desired to Attend and
inform the Town When they shall be able to deliver the Tax Books
to the Collectors
The Assessors agreeable to requirement attended and informed
the Town that they hoped to compleat that Buissiuess in about ten
Days
Moved and Voted, that the Committee relative to Subscriptions
of which Mr. Frazier is [438.] Chairman, be desired to proceed
in Order to Compleat the Subscriptions
On a Motion Voted, that an Addition of the Persons be now
made to said Committee
Voted that Ellis Gray Esqr.
Allen Otis Esqr.
Ehenezer Hancock Esqr.
be added to the Committee aforesaid for procuring Subscriptions
Adjourned to Tuesday next being the 11th. Day of July Ins'. 3.
O: Clock Afternoon
Tuesday the 11th. Day of July. 3. O: Clock Afternoon — Met ac-
cording to Adjournment
The Committee appointed to borrow Moneys for carrying on the
War, being called upon to make Report, acqu:dnted the Town,
that they had, Suspended offering the Subscription Papers to the
Inhabitants, as they understood the Militia Companies of the sev-
eral Wards, were assisting said Companies for the purpose of
paying the Bounty &c to the Men that are Inlisted. &c. as a Rein-
forcement to the Continental Army
On a Motion. Voted, that Col° Proctor be directed to pay to
one Major two Captains and four Subaltron officers appointed for
me Towns proportion of the Militia to be inlisted or draughted
[439.] Agreeable to a Resolve of the General Court lately
Passed, Six hundred Pounds, each out of the Monies to be raised
for paying the Bounties &c to the Men who are to reinforce the
Continental Army
A Motion was made, that an Additional Grant of £100,000 —
be now made for the sole purpose of carrying on the War. — the
Motion was withdrawn, on account of another Motion made, for
an Adjournment [the Meeting bein thire illegible.^
146 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned it shall be to Mon-
day next the 17th. Day of July Ins'. 3. O. Clock Afternoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Monday the 17th. Day of July 3. OClock, Afternoon — Met
according to Adjournment
On a Motion made Voted, that Col°. Proctor be directed, to pay
to one Major, two Captains and four Subaltron Officers appointed
over the Towns proportion of the Militia raised by a Resolve of
the General Assembly lately Passed ; Six hundred Pounds each, in
addition to the former Grants of Six hundred Pounds, made the
seventh of July, and this out of the Moneys to be raised for pay-
ing the Bounties of the Men raised to reinforce the Continental
Army
Voted, that the sum of Two hundred ,and Fifty thousand
Pounds, be raised by a Tax upon [44O.] Polls, and Estates, within
this Town, in addition to the Sum of three hundred Thousand
Pounds already granted by the Town for the sole purpose of car-
rying on the War the same to be added to the next Tax, — also
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be and he hereby is impowered
and directed to borrow a Sum of Money, not exceeding Two hun-
dred and Fifty Thousand Pounds in addition to the Three hundred
Thousand Pounds already Voted, by the Town for the Sole pur-
pose of carrying on the War, and that said Treasurer give his
negotiable Notes to the respective Lenders on Interest for the
Sums by them advanced, the Same to be paid out of the Tax,
already Issued
It was then Moved, that this Meeting be dessolved
And the Meeting was accordingly dessolved
[Several entries follow out of chronological order, but as they
appear in original. — W. H. W.]
At the Adjournment of the May Meeting, Wednesday the 14th
Day of June 10. O. Clock Forenoon
General Hancock the Moderator of the Meeting, and Deacon
Tudor ihe Moderator Pro. Tern0, not attending the former being
Oblidged to attend the General Assembly
David Jeffries Esqr. was chosen Moderator during the absence
of General Hancock and Deacon Tudor
[441.] On a Motion made Voted, that this Meeting be Ad-
journed to the Afternoon 4. 0. Clock, in hopes of .a more general
attendance of the Inhabitants
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
4. O'Clock Afternoon — Met according to Adjournment.
As very few of the Inhabitants Attended, a Motion was made
and obtained, that when this Meeting is Adjourned, it shall be to
Fryday the 16th of June 4. O'. Clock Afternoon.
A Motion was then made but did not obtain, that the Town
now proceed to the consideration of proper Allowances to the
Schoolmasters, &c.
Adjourned to Fryday next 4. OClock Afternoon
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 147
Fryday June 16th. 4. O. Clock Afternoon — Met according to
Adjournment
David Jeffries Esqr. Moderator Pro: Tern0, not attending
Deacon Tudor took the Chair
On a Motion, Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned, it
shall be to Monday next. 4. O. Clock in the Afternoon
On a Motion, Voted, that the Town Clerk advertize in the
several News Papers, the time to which Meeting stands Adjourned
also that grants of Money are then to be made for the School-
masters, for their Salaries &c. and other important business to be
Transacted
[44SJ.] Adjourned to Monday next being being the 19th. of
Juue Ins4. 4. O. Clock : P: M: in the Afternoon
Monday June 19th. 4. O. Clock P: M: Met according to Adjourn-
ment
The Committee appointed to consider of proper and Adequate
Grants to the School Masters — Reported — whereupon a Motion
was made that said Report be now taken up and acted upon —
and the Question being accordingly put Passed in the Negative
The Town Treasurer having requested that he might be im-
powered to procure at the Towns Expence printed Blanks, that
greater dispatch may be made, in giving Notes to the respective
Subscribers for the Sums by them Loaned and paid into the
Town Treasurey for the purpose of paying the Men to be raised
as a reinforcement to the Continental Army, their Bounty, Mileage
&c as also for procuring Shoes, Stockings, Shirts and Blankets —
the Question was accordingly put — and Passed in the Affirmative
Adjourned to Fryday next being the 23d. of June Ins'. 3.
O. Clock in the Afternoon
Fryday June 23d. 3 OClock in the Afternoon — Met according
to Adjournment
The Report of the Committee relative to the Schoolmasters
Salaries being again read ; the same as Amended by the Town is
as follows — Viz'.
[443.] The Committee appointed to consider and Report
proper and adequate Grants to the Schoolmasters, are of opinion
— that Mr. Samuel Hunt Master of the South Grainer School, be
allowed in Specie the Sum of Ninety Pounds, for Six Mouths
Salary, the same to commence the first of March, last, or a Sum
in paper Money equal to the Exchange, said Exchange to be set-
tled by the Selectmen at the date of their Draughts for payment
according to the rate of Gold and Silver among the Merchants —
and that the Master of the North Writing School have an Addi-
tional allowance of fourteen pounds p Annum for House Rent, or
the Exchange as aforesaid — And that all the Towns School-
masters, and Ushers receive an addition to their Salaries in the
same proportion and manner
NATHANIEL APPLETON p Order.
The foregoing Report amended having been again read — the
148 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Question was pat, Whether the same shall be accepted — Passed
in the Affermative
On a Motion made Voted, that the Town will support the Col-
lectors of Taxes in any Advice or legal Prosecutions relative to
Collecting of Taxes which the Selectmen shall Judge to be neces-
sary ; and the Selectmen are directed to give their Draughts on
the Town Treasurer for any charge that may arise thereon
On a Motion made. Voted that a Committee be appointed to
consider and Report at the Adjournment of this Meeting, what
Sum it rs necessary for the Town to raise in order to defra}' the
Charges & Expencies of the Current year ; as also what will be a
proper and [444.] Adequate Allowance to the Assessors for
their services
Voted that Ebenezer Storer Esqr.
William Cooper
Thomas Daws Esqr.
Mr. Joseph Barrel
Mr. Samuel Eliot
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Adjourned to Wednesday next the 23d. [sic'] Ins'. 4 O. Clock in
the Afternoon
Wednesday June 28th. [sic] 4. O. Clock. Afternoon — Met accord-
ing to Adjournment
Deacon Tudor in the Chair
The Committee appointed to consider what' Sums may be neces-
sary for the Town to raise to defray the Charges of the present
Year, as also what "will be a proper Allowance to the Assessors
for their servicies — Reported whereupon it was moved and Voted,
that the consideration of this Report be referred to the Adjourn-
ment of this Meeting
Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned, it shall be to Mor-
mow. 12. O. Clock Forenoon
Then the Meeting was Adjourned
Wednesday the 29th. [sic] Day of June 12. O. Clock Forenoon —
Met according to Adjournment
Deacon Tudor
in the Chair
[445.] The several Committees chosen by the Town not
being able to Report this Forenoon it was motioned that this
Meeting, be Adjourned to 5. O. Clock Afternoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
5 O'Clock Afternoon — Met according to Adjournment
The Report of the Committee relative to allowance to the As-
sessors &c was again read, and being amended by the Town is as
follows — Viz'.
The Committee appointed to consider what Sums maybe neces-
sary for the Town to raise to defrey the Charges of the Present
year, as also what will be a proper allowance to the Assessors for
their Services — beg leave to Report
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 149
That they have attended the Business and on due consideration
find themselves so intirely unacquainted with the affairs of the
Town and the usual Charges especially in the present time, as to
be utterly incompitent to Judge of the Sura necessary to be raised,
and would therefore humbly suggest that it be referred to the
Gentelmen Selectmen and Overseers of the Poor, who are much
better acquainted with the State of the Town, and consequently
better able to Judge of the Sum wanted
The Committee further Report, That in their Opinion there
ought to be allowed to the Assessors from the 2d. of February last
Six Shillings p Day in Silver Mone}-, or Paper at the Rate of
Silver and Gold, among the Merchants, the Exchange to be
[446.] The same as was the Schoolmasters ; and that a further
allowance of Two Thousand Pounds, at least ought to be made
them for being kept out of the Sum due to them for past Services
'The foregoing Report as amended having been again read —
the Question was put — Whether the same shall be accepted —
Passed in the Affermative
Voted, that the Sum of Three hundred thousand Pounds be
raised by a Tax upon Polls and Estates within this Town for the
Relief of the Poor and defraying other necessary Charges ; Fifty
Thousand Pounds thereof to be appropriated for the support of
the Almshouse — the same to be added to the next Tax
On a Motion made Voted, that the Town Treasurer be paid his
Salary quarterly as the Schoolmasters are drawn for
On a Motion Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned it
shall be to the First Tuesday in August next 10. O. Clock P: M:
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
August 1. Tuesdays. O. Clock P: M: Met according to Adjourn-
ment
Deacon Tudor and Treasurer Jeffries the Moderators Pro Tern0,
being absent
[447.] Honble. Oliver Wendell Esqr. was chosen Moderator
Pro Tern0.
Cap'. Ballard one of the Committee relative to the North
Battery Reported Verbally, whereby it appeared that the Title of
the Towns Lands at the North Battery was clear — on which a
Motion was made and carried
That the Selectmen be desired and impowered to make such
an improvement of the Towns Estate at the North Battery as to
them shall appear most for the Interest of the Town
On a Motion made Voted, that the Selectmen draw for the Sum
of Twenty five hundred Pounds, in faviour of the Town Treasurer
on Account of his Salary the Current Year
On a Motion Voted, that the Draught now issued by the Select-
men in faviour of the Assessors for £20.700 to be paid out of
the first Moneys that shall be received into the Treasury, or that
the Treasurer be impowered to give his Negotiable Notes on
Interest for said Sum
On a Motion made by Mr. Gray
Voted, that the Selectmen give the Town Clerk a draught on the
150 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Treasurer for three thousand Pounds on Account of his Salary for
the present Year, and that the Treasurer be impowered to give his
Negotiable Notes for the Same on Interest if desired
Voted, that all Matters and things unfinished be referred to the
Next General Town Meeting
Then the Meeting was dissolved
[448.] At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town
of Boston of Twenty one Years of Age and upwards, qualified as
the Constitution prescribes and legally warned in Publick Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneieul Hall on Monday the 4th. Day of
September A.D. 1780 — 9 O. Clock A: M
Prayer was made by the Kevd. Mr. Lotherop
Warrant for calling the Meeting read
A Resolve of the Convention passed the 16th. Day of June 1780
relative to the choice of a Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and
Six Senators for the County of Suffolk — read
Persons Voted, for as Governor with the Number of Votes, for
each Person — Viz'.
Vote*.
Honble. James Bowdoin Esqr. 64
Houble. Samuel Adams Esqr. 1
Honble. John Hancock Esqr. - - 858
923
On a Motion, Voted, that the Town will now come to the choice
of a Lieutenant Governor
It was then declared by the Selectmen, that no Votes, will be
received, but such as are unfolded, and that they purpose the Poll
be closed at One O. Clock
Persons Voted, for as Lieutenant Governor, with the Number
of Votes for each Person Viz'.
Votes.
[449.] Honble. James Bowdoin Esqr. 30
Honblc. Samuel Adams Esqr. 9
Honble. Jeremiah Powell Esqr. ----- 1 167
Honble. Benjamin Greanleaff Esqr. 2
Houblc. Walter Spooner -- - 8
Honble. Artemas Ward 14
Honble. William Sever Esqr. 4
Honble. Thomas Cushing Esqr. 49
Honble. John Hancock Esqr. 2
Honble. Oliver Wendell Esqr. - 3
Honble. James Warren Esqr. 1
Honble. John Pitts Esq. 1
William Heath Esqr. • - .- - 1
Jonathan Jackson Esqr.
John Lowell Esqr. ------- 15
Azor Orn Esqr. 20
Caleb Davis Esqr. - - 4
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 151
Votes
Mr. Edward Green 1
James Sylliman Esqr. ------ 2
Mr. William Dennie 1
Mr. Peter Edes 2
339
Adjourned to 4 O'Clock P; M:
4 O. Clock P: M: Met according to Adjournment
On a Motion made Voted, to close the Poll for Senators, at 6
O'Clock
On a Motion made Voted, to reconsider the foregoing Vote,
and that the Poll for Senators be closed at half past Five O'Clock
[45O.] Persons Voted, for as Senators for the County of
Suffolk with the Number of Votes, for each Person — Viz1.
Votes.
Honble. Thomas Gushing Esqr. 234
Honble. Jeremiah Powell Esqr. 214
Honble. John Pitts Esqr. 250
Honblc. Jabez Fisher Esqr. 275
Honble. Samuel Nyles Esqr. ------- 259
Increase Sumner Esqr. ------ 259
John Lowell Esqr. -- 73
Honble. Benjamin White Esqr. 6
^ Honble. James Bowdoin Esqr. ------ 31
Houble. Oliver Wendell Esqr. - - - - 30
Cotton Tuffts Esqr. 7
Richard Cranch Esqr. ------ 9
Honble. Benjamin Austin Esqr. 11
Caleb Davis Esqr. -.---.. 4
Mr. Joseph Barrel - 1
Ellis Gray Esqr. 4
William Tudor Esqr. - 1
Honble. Henry Gardner Esqr. 2
Mr. Edward Payne ._._ i
Honble. William Phillips Esqr. - - - 2
Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. 1
Samuel Broom Esqr. 1
Mr. Samuel Demiug -------- l
Thomas Daws Esqr. 1
Attested, Copies of the Persons Voted for as Governor Leu*.
Governor, and Senators for the County of Suffolk, were trans-
mitted to the Secretary of this State and the Inclosed sealed
up in Town Meeting, Superscribed as follows — Viz1.
For
[451.] The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr.
Secretary
of the Commonwealth
of Massachusetts
The number of Votes, of the Town of Boston for a Governor,
152 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Lieutenant Governor, and Six Senators for the County of Suffolk,
certified within and Sealed up in Town Meeting
Then the Meeting was dissolved
- At a Meeting of the Freeholders an Other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in publick
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 11th.
Day of October Anno Domini 1780 — 10 O'Clock Forenoon
Prayer was made by the Revd. Mr. Howard
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
A Resolve of the Convention passed the 16th. Day of June
1780 — relative to the Choice of Governor, Lieu'. Governor
Senators and Representatives — read
The Town having determined to choose Seven Persons to
Represent them in the Great and General Court, or Assembly to
be held at the State House in Boston upon Wednesday the 25th.
Day of October Current.
[452.] Agreeable to a Resolve of Convention passed the 16th.
Day of June last — The Inhabitants were accordingly directed, to
withdraw, and bring in their Votes for Seven Representatives, and
then it was Declared by the Selectmen that no Votes will be re-
ceived, but such as are unfolded ; and that they propose the Poll
shall be closed at 12. O. Clock
The Votes being brought in for Seven Representatives, the
number of the same were found to be One hundred Eighty five and
upon sorting them it appeared, that the following Persons, were
chose Viz'.
Votes
Caleb Davis Esqr. -------- 181
Thomas Daws Esqr. -- - - - - - 178
John Lowell Esqr. 181
Thomas Walley Esqr. 172
Samuel Austin Esqr. ------- 157
John Rowe Esqr. -179
Samuel Barrett Esgr. -------- 150
The choice of Representatives being over, and declared by the
Selectmen ; the Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring
in their Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting in order that the
Town may proceed in transacting the Other Affairs Mentioned in
the Warrant; accordingly the Inhabitants withdrew and brought
in their Votes, and upon sorting them it appeared that
John Lowell Esqr.
was chosen Moderator, unanimously
[453.] The Article in the Warrant Viz1. — " To consider of
the Measures that shall be taken for procuring Beef for the Army
in conformity to a Resolve of the General Assembly passed the
25th. of September last " — was read — whereupon it was moved
and Voted, that a Committee be now appointed to take this Mat-
ter into consideration and Report at the Adjournment of this Meet-
ing what they shall Judge best to be done thereon — also
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 153
Voted, that Caleb Davis Esqr.
Thomas Daws Esqr.
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley
Stephen Higgiuson Ksqr.
Mr. Samuel Brick
Samuel Ruggles Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. " To consider whether Instruc-
tions shall be given to the Representatives, that shall be chosen "
— was read, and after some debate it was moved, and carried,
that the further consideration thereof be referred to the Ad-
journment
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. u To consider whether any
Measures shall be taken relative to the Towns, Interest at South
Battery." — was read — whereupon
Voted, that the Selectmen be a Committee for the consideration
of this Matter and to Report at the Adjournment
[454.] Voted, that when this Meeting be Adjourn'd it be to
Monday next. 10. O. Clock Forenoon
On a Motion, Voted, that the Town Clerk be directed to Notify
the Inhabitants, in the Thursdays and Mondays Papers of the Time
to which this Meeting may be Adjourned, and that business which
felates to the Supply of the Army and other important matters are
then to be acted upon — also
Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to Monday next being
the 16th. Instant. 10. OClock
Monday October 16th. 10. O. Clock Forenoon — Met according to
Adjournment
On a Motion, Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to enjoin
the Attendance of four Constables at least with the Badge of their
Office at all Town Meetings, and the Adjournment of such
Meetings.
The Committee appointed to consider and Report some Method
to be Adopted by the Town to enable them to comply with a Req-
uisition of the General Court of the 25th. of September last for
supplying the Army with Beef have attended that service, and
Reported accordingly — the following Votes, in conformity to said
Report were passed by the Town Viz'.
Whereas an immediate complyance with the Requisition of the
25th. of September last for supplying the Army with Beef is abso-
lutely necessary & essential [455.] to the Safety of this and the
United States, a consideration which has always raised and ani-
mated the Inhabitants of this Town to the most Manly and Spirited
exertions, and as the Money cannot be Collected by Taxes in
season to make the necessary purchases — therefore
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be and he hereby is impowered
and directed to borrow a Sum not exceeding Six Thousand two
hundred and Fifty pounds of the new Emission — and to induce
Gentelmen of Property the more readily and Speedily to advance
their Moneys, and as an allowance for any inconvenience the Per-
154 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
soas lending may sustain by hastely raising the Same — The
Treasurer is hereby directed to give his Notes upon Interest pay-
able in three Months with an allowance of five p C*. on the same,
on or before the Thirteenth Day of October Ins'. ; said Money to
be appropriated solely for the complying with the Requisition
aforesaid, and for carrying on the War
And the more effectually to prevent any Injustice being done
either to the Town or the Lender
Voted, that the Notes given by the Treasurer shall be in the
form following — Viz1.
Boston — 1780.
In pursuance of a Vote of the Town passed the 16th. of October,
1780. Borrowed and received of: A: B. the sum of the new
Emission to enable the Town to comply with a Requisition of the
General Court of the 25th. of September last to procure Beef for
the Army ; which Sum I promise to repay said A: B. [456.] Or
Bearer in Three Months from the above date, with Lawfull Interest
for the Same till paid, the sum so repaid to be equal in value to
the sum received, in the Judgement of the Committee appointed l>y
the Town to determine the same
Voted, that John Scollay Esqr.
Mr. Edward Payne
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
And whereas Strict Justice as well as the strictest policy dictates
that the Treasurer should be enabled punctually to discharge said
Notes at the time limetted for Payment
Voted, that the Sum of Two hundred and Fifty thousand Pounds
in Continental Bills of Credit equal to the sum of Six Thousand two
hundred and Fifty Pounds of the new Emission be immediately
Assessed on the Polls, and Estates of the Inhabitants of this Town
which Sums the Assessors are hereby directed to add to the Town
Tax they are now making to be appropriated soley for the purpose
aforesaid
And whereas it is absolutely necessary that the Moneys should
be immediately Collected, to prevent the Town being subjected to
pay a large fine ia case of delay, and that the business may be ex-
pidited as much as possible
Voted, that Stephen Higginson
Samuel Breck
Ellis Gray
[457.] Samuel Broom
Leonard Jams
Isaac Smith
Josiah Waters Esqr.
be a Committee to apply to the Inhabitants for an Immediate loan
of Money to the Town for the purposes and on the Conditions as
aforesaid as the Treasurer is directed to employ one or more trusty
Person or Persons to Collect the Money that may be Subscribed
— also
Voted, that John Lucas Esqr.
Cap1. Amasa Davis
Mr. Ebenezer Dorr
BOSTON Towx RECORDS, 1780. 155
be a Committee to receive the Money of the Town Treasurer or
such part of it as shall be necessary to enable the Town to com-
ply with the Requisition aforesaid and pay the same to the Com-
mittee appointed by the General Court to purchase Supplies for
the Army or to their Order taking duplicate' Receipts therefor
Agreeable to the directions given in said Resolve of the General
Court — also
Voted, that the Collectors of Taxes be and they hereby are
directed to take the Notes given by' the Treasurer for the above
purpose in payment for the Tax levied to Redeem said Notes,
Allowing the Interest that may be due thereon, and the Treasurer
is directed to receive them of the Collectors, accordingly in pay-
ment of said Tax
The Committee appointed to consider whether any Measures
shall be taken relative to the Towns Interest at the South Battery
— Reported that they were not as yet able to Report these Matters
at large
[458.] Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to lay before
the Town at the next General Town Meeting a State of the Towns
Real Estate, and to insert in the Warrant of said Meeting a
Clause for considering the expediency of disposing of any part of
the Towns Lauds on the Neck or elsewhere
Voted, that Richard Devens Esqr.
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
William Cooper Esqr.
be a Committee to prepare Instructions for our Representatives,
and Report the same at the next Meeting
Voted, that all Matters unfinished at this Meeting be referred
over to the next
On a Motion, Voted, that the Thanks of this Town be and
hereby are given to the Honblc. John Hancock Esqr. for his ser-
vices as a Representative a Number of years past — The Town at
the same Time cannot but express their high Satisfaction of the
present of his being Seen in a Department of this Commonwealth,
where his Ability and disinterested Zeal for the Securiety and
wellfare of this, and the other United States may be more con-
spicuously displayed, than in any Office that is within the power
of this Town alone to bestow — also Voted that the Town Clerk
present him with an attested Copy of this Vote
[459.] Then the Meeting was dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and Other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston at Faneuil Hall Monday the 30th. Day of October
1780
The Inhabitants met, and it appearing that there had been an
omission of the Constables in not warning Ward N°. 1. the Meet-
ing was consequently set aside
156 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned, in publick
Town Meeting, Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the 2d.
Day of November Anno Domini 1780
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting, and the same bei-ug
brought in and- Sorted, it appeared that
Ellis Gray Esqr. was chosen Moderator
The Committee appointed at a late Meeting to prepare a
Draught of Instructions for our ' Representatives in General As-
sembly Reported the following Draught — Viz'.
[46O.] To Caleb Davis Esqr.
John Lowell Esqr.
Thomas Dawes Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley
Mr. Samuel Austin
John Rowe Esqr. and
Samuel Barrett Esqr.
Gentlemen
Your Appointment at this important Crisis is a high Testimoney
of the Publick Affection, to you, and of their confidence in your
abilities and integrity : But as we judge you wish to feel your-
selves supported by your constituents in the Discharge of your
Duty, we have seen fit to give you the following Instructions;
And we Depend upon the utmost exertion of your influence to
carry them into effect. We are now entered upon a new form of
Government, and from the excellency of its constitution, if rightly
administred, we might promise ourselves much Publick felicity.
— But our existence under any forms of freedom or happiness,
depending upon our success against that Power whose yoke we
have shaken Off, we consider an Attention to the Army as a
Matter of the highest importance to us, and what ought to be the
first Object of your regards : — We therefore, most solemly
enjoin it upon you to take immediate steps for filling up our
quota during the War ; and to provide for the Supply of every
thing necessary for the comfort & Convenience of both Officers
and Men ; — and we conceive that it is highly expedient that their
pay henceforth be made in Gold or Silver [461.] And all prom-
ises to them punctually Complied with ; — even a Momentary in-
attention to their wants we consider as highly criminal
At a Time when our resources, our Alliances and abilities are
greater than ever, we behold the independance of our country
wounded and strugling under the loss of Publick Faith, without
enquiring into the Policy of former Administrations, or crimi-
nating them or ourselves for mistaken ideas of finance, — we con-
ceive that Publick, and Private credit rests upon the same basis
of integrity and honour, of ecconimy and punctuality : — and we
instruct you to revise all the Laws now existing with Respect to
our paper currency, and to use your influence to Obtain a Repeal
of any part of them which may appear inconsistent with these
principles.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 157
Taught by experience, that all land embargoes, all commercial
restrictions between the several States, are contrary of Sound
policy and those social, and Friendly principles which unite our
common Interest, we direct you by no means to consent to them
— On the Other hand, we have Seen with concern, an ellicit
Trade carrying on with our inveterate Enemies, this we conceive
to be highly opposed to all the Principles of Policy and Wisdom,
inconsistant with our Pretentious, injurious to our generious Allies,
and what ought to be prohibited under the severiest penalties.
The frequent escape of Prisoners of War is so alarming — in it-
self, and so dishonourable to our police, as to require an imme-
diate Remedy — we Object not to their enjoying all the Priviledges
of humanity which their Situation and ours will Admit of ; [462.]
But surely these ought not to operate as a facility of escaping so
injurious and disreputable to us
The protection of our two long neglected sea coasts, is so
important, and what comes so Naturally under the concern of the
Representatives of a commercial City, that we think it needless to
Instruct you upon it. An enquirey into the State of the Treasury,
and a frequent Adjustment of that and all other Publick Accounts.
A knowlidge of the Publick debts, and the provissions, made for
the Discharge of them, are certainly within the Line of your Duty.
Cultivate a frequent correspondence with our Sister States,
acquaint yourselves with theif Wants and resources, by a reciproc-
ity of Good Offices, Mutual Affection will be encreased, and by
a union of force the Designes of our enemies will be Defeated.
In a Word, make our most excellent Constitution the Rule of
your Conduct ; be governed by its principles, and permit no law
contrary to them to take place ; cherish the Interest of literature
and the sciences, of Virtue and piety ; and you cannot fail of
that highest reward in a republick, the approbation of your Fellow
Citizens
The foregoing Report having been read & considered ; the
Question was put — Viz1. — Whether the Same shall be accepted —
Passed in the Affermative
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. — To receive the Report of the
Committee appointed to obtain Subscriptions for procuring Beef
for the Army" was read, and the Committee having Reported
verbally ; were enjoined [463.] To proceed, in filling up the
Subscription Paper [duplicate entry in original. — W. H. W.]
The Article in the Warrant. Viz'. — To receive the Report of
the Committee appointed to Obtain — Subscriptions for procuring
Beef for the Army." was read, and the Committee having Re-
ported verbally : were enjoined to proceed, in filling up the
Subscription Paper. ,
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. To consider what Measures
shall be taken with respect to several Persons who are taxed in
this town while Resident in other Towns " — was read — where-
upon— Voted, that the Selectmen, be and hereby are Authorized,
and impowered, to settle these disputes b}- referrence or other-
ways
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. " To consider, the Petition of
158 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Cap1. Gustavers Fellows, that he may be paid what is clue to him
from the Town in Moneys equal in value to the Money he has
advanced " — was read, whereupon — Voted, that
John Scollay Esqr.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Mr. Edward Payne
be a Committee to examine his Account, and determine what
Money is due to him in equity
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. — To consider of the ex-
pediency of disposing of any, part of the Towns Lands on the
Neck or elsewhere — read — whereupon after some debate, it was
moved and carried, that the further consideration of this Matter
be referred to the Annual Town Meeting in March next
[464.] On a Motion Voted, that a Committee be appointed
to prepare an Address to his Excellency John Hancock Esqr. con-
gratulating him on his late appointment to the Chief Seat of
Goverment in this Commonwealth — &c.
Voted, that Ellis Gray Esqr. the Moderator
William Cooper
John Brown
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Mr. Tuttle Hubbard
David Jeffries Esqr.
William Tudor Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Adjourned to Saturday next. 11. O'Clock
Saturday Noyember 4th. Met According to Adjournment
The Committee appointed to draught an Address to His Excel-
lency Governor Hancock, on his advancement to the chief Seat of
Government in this Commonwealth Reported as follows Viz1.
May it please your Excellency
The Freeholders & Inhabitants of the Town of Boston, in Town
Meeting Assembled with great respect and Sincere pleasure take
this early apportunity to congratulate your P^xcellency on your
Appointment as first Governor of the Commonwealth of Massa-
chusetts, by the almost unanimous Sufferages of the People —
[465.] The early and decisive part taken by your Excellency
at the commencement of the present contest — the warmth of your
patriotick Affection evinced in the sacrifises you have made, and
the great Assiduity with which you have discharged the various
Trusts, reposed in you, affords the brightest prospect, that your
Talents will still be employed, with honor & Success, in promoting
the security and Wellfare of this & the Other United States.
That generous concern you have always expressed for the In-
terest of this Metropolis, is a pleasing pledge that the Interest
with which the general Good is so nearly connected, will now be
more peculiarly taken under your Excellencies, patronage and
protection
Your Excellency may rely upon our contributing every thing in
our power to promote the ease & happiness of your Administra-
tion
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 159
The foregoing Report having been read and considered — the
Question was put — Viz'. — Whether the Town will accept the
Same — passed in the Affermative, unanimously — also —
Vroted, that the Town Clerk prepare a fair draught of this
Address & that
Ellis Gray Esqr. Moderator
William Cooper
John Brown
Ezekiel Price
Tuttle Hubbard
David Jeffries
William Tudor Esqr.
[466.] Be and hereby are appointed a Committee to wait
upon his Excellency, and in the name of the Town, to present him
with said Address
On a Motion made — Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to
the 14th Day of November next — 3. O. Clock Afternoon
Tuesday November 14th. 1780. 3. O.Clock P: M: Met accord-
ing to Adjournment
Mr. Gray the Moderator of this Meeting having, acquainted the
Town that he was so unwell as not to be able to give his attendance
at this Meeting
The Inhabitants were then directed to withdraw and bring in
their Votes, fora Moderator Pro Tern0, and the same being brought
in and sorted, it appeared that
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
was chosen Moderator Pro : Tern0.
The Committee appointed to present the Address of the Town
to his Excellency the Governer reported, that his Excellency was
pleased to Return the following Answer — Viz'.
Mr. Moderator and Gentlemen
The high esteem in which I have always held the respectable In-
habitants of the Town of Boston, hightens the pleasure with which
I receive their kind and Affectionate Address. — To their cander
[467.] and good Will I am indebted for my first appearance
in publick Character, and this debt is greatley enlarged by their
kind acceptance of my feeble efforts, to promote the securiety and
wellfare of this and the Other United States — The assurance of
their support in the discharge of the important trust now reposed
in me by the People of this Commonwealth, is greatly animating
and demands my gi'atitude — It must ever be my inclination and
study, as it is my indisputable duty, to promote as far as I am
able, the prosperity of this Metropolis, with which the general
Good is so nearly connected ; and the Success of every Measure
for this purpose, will Add to my happiness
Boston November 6th. 1 780.
JOHN HANCOCK
The Committee appointed to consider the Petition of Cap'. Gus-
tavus Fellows that he may be paid what is due to him from the
Town, in Monies equal in value to the Money he has Advanced "
— Reported and after some debate had thereon, it was Moved and
160 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Voted, that the consideration of this Petition be referred over to
the Adjournment
The Meeting was then Adjourned to Fryday next — 3. O. Clock
in the Afternoon
Fryday the 17th. Day of November 1780. 3. O.Clock P:M:
Met according to Adjournment —
Mr. Gray in the Chair
The Committee appointed to examine the demands of Cap'.
Gustavus Fellows, and determine [468.] what Moneys is due to
him in equity, the Sum of Twenty one Thousand one hundred and
forty eight Pounds nine Shillings and two pence Money of the Old
Emission for Moneys by him Advanced for the Town — Also that
there is due to him the Sum of twelve Thousand eight hundred and
Ninety five pounds, nine Shillings and two pence, being the real
depreciation of Currant Money — between October 1778. when
Cap1. Fellows lent the Town — Fourteen hundred and Five pounds
Ten Shillings, the 25th. June 1779 — the time he received it
JOHN SCOLLAY. EZEKIEL PRICE
The foregoing Report having been read, and considered — the
Question was put Viz*. Whether the same shall be accepted —
Passed in the Affermative
On a Motion Voted, that all Matters and things unfinished at
this Meeting be referred over to the next General Town Meeting
Then the Meeting was dessolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders an Other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legaley warned ; in publick
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Tuesday the 12th.
Day of December A: D: 1780
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
[469.] The Inhabitants having given their Votes for a
Moderator, and the same being sorted &c — it appeared, that
John Lowell Esqr.
was chosen Moderator of this Meeting
Resolve of the General Assembly relative to raising Recruits for
the Continental Army — read
The Article in the Warrant. Viz1. — " To agree and determine
upon the best and most efficatious Means for the speedy raising
this Towns proportion of effective Men for the Continental Army
as pointed out and recommended, by the Resolve aforesaid " —
was read, and after considerable debate, it was Moved and Voted,
that a Committee be appointed to take the Resolve of the General
Court for raising this Towns proportion of Men for the Continental
Army into Consideration, and Report what Measures they shall
Judge best to be adopted by the Town for carrying the same into
speedy execution — also
Voted, that John Lowell Esqr.
Col°. Proctor
Ellis Gray EsqT.
Cap*. Sarson Belcher
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 161
Col°. Daws
Dr. Jarvis
Col°. Joseph Webb
Cap'. Amasa Davis
John Greenough Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
[47O.] On a Motion Voted, that when this Meeting is
Adjourned, it be Adjourned to to Morrow Afternoon, 3. O'Clock
then to meet at the Representatives Chamber
Then the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Wednesday December the 13th. 3. O. Clock P: M: met at the
Representatives Chamber according to Adjournment
The Committee appointed to prepare a plan for raising this
Towns proportion of Men for the Continental Army, Agreeable to
the Resolve of the General Court of the 2d. Day of December
Instant Report as their Opinion, that the same be raised in the
following Manner — Viz*.
That the one hundred and Eighty one Men required be appor-
tioned on the several Wards of the Town in the proportion here-
after stated — Viz'.
Ward ------- N°. 1 - - - - 3 Men
Ward 2 - - - - 5
Ward,- - - 3 - - - 6
Ward - - - 4 .... 8
Ward ----- 5 .... 8
Ward - - 6 - 17
Ward - - - 7 -12
Ward - - 8 - 19
Ward - - 9 - - - 28
Ward - - 10 - 26
Ward 11 - -. - - 26
Ward ---,--- 12 - - - .- 23
[471.] And that a Committee be chosen of two Persons in
each Ward, and another at Large for each Ward to Class the
several Inhabitants in the respective Wards, into as many Classes,
as there are Soldiers to be raised in each Ward, and to form their
Classes in such manner as to make the Several Classes as nearly
equal in property and in number of Polls, as, may be with conven-
ience and that the business be immediately done & Report made
to the Town for their acceptance at a very short Adjournment
JOHN LOWELL p Order
The foregoing Report having been read — after longe debate
had thereon the Question was put — Viz'. " Whether this Report
shall be accepted — Passed in the Afferrnative — also
Ward
Voted, that John R. Sigoney ----------1.
Cap'. Silas Atkins
Col°. Proctor
162 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Ward
Capt Elias Parknian --------- 2.
Mr. Henn- Robe}'
Col°. Symms
Cap'. John Wells 3.
Cap'. Nath1. Fellows
Mr. Daniel Parker
Mr. Samuel Parkraan -- ......4.
Col°. Francis Shaw
Cap1. John Ballard
Cap'. William Mackey 5.
Cap'. John Pulling
Col°. Nathaniel Barber
Ward
[472.] Deacon Samuel Barret 6.
Mr. Moses Grant
Cap'. Alexander Hodgden
Mr. Nathan Frazier -------- .7
Cap'. Job Prince Seur.
Eliis Gray Esqr.
Cap'. John Langdon ---------8
Stephen Higgiuson Esqr. --------
Joseph Bai-rell Esqr.
Mr. Earth0. Kneeland - - - 9.
Mr. Leonard J arris
Cap*. Sarson Belcher
Thomas Walley 10.
Col°. Joseph Webb
Col°. Thomas Daws
Mr. John Tileston 11
Mr. Joseph Peirce
Deacon John Preston
John Lucas Esqr. 12
Mr. Harman Brimmer
Col°. Josiah Waters
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to Class, the several
Wards, as permitted by a late Resolve of the General Assembly of
this Commonwealth relative to raising Men for the Continental
Army passed the 29th. of November last
[473.] On a Motion Voted, that a Committtee be now appointed
to consider and Report, the best plan for inlisting this Towns pro-
portion of the Continental Army
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 163
Voted, that Col°. Proctor
Col°. Joseph Webb
Nath1. Appleton Esqr.
Cap*. Gowan Brown
Major Melville
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid to Report as Soon as may
be
On a Motion Voted, that the Constables of the Town, be di-
rected to Notify the foregoing Committee to meet at the Select- '
mens Chamber to Morrow Morning 9. O. Clock. Forenoon
On a Motion Voted, that the Assessors and Collectors of Taxes,
be desired to let the Committee for Classing the Inhabitants have
the use of their Books, as they may have occasion
Adjourned to Fry day next 3. O. Clock Afternoon then to meet
at the Representatives Chamber
Fryday the 15th. Day of December 3. O. Clock Afternoon, Met
according to Adjournment
The Committee of Five appointed to devise a plan for the Rais-
ing this Towns Proportion of Men for the Continental Army —
Reported and the same being read, and debate had thereon, it was
motioned and carried that the further Consideration of the [474.]
Report, be referred, till the Committee for Classing have made
Report
The Reports of the 12 Committees appointed for Classing the
Inhabitants in the several Wards was laid before the Town by the
respective Committees, and the same having been read and Con-
sidered— whereupon Voted, that the Several Reports, be accepted,
saving those of the Committees for Wards N°. 8. 9. & 10 which
were amended ; and the Question being put Viz4. Whether the said
Reports as amended be accepted — Passed in the Afferrnative
The Report of the Committee of Five relative to the best method
of Inlisting this Towns proportion of Men for the Continental
Army again taken up and after considerable debate had thereon —
it was
Voted, that this Report be Committed to a Committee now to be
chosen, who are desired to take it into a new draught and Report
to the Town as soon as may be also
Voted, that Stephen Higginson Esqr.
Ellis Gray Esqr.
Mr. Joseph Peirce
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
The foregoing Committee having Reported, and the Same being
read and considered, after some Amendments, &c agreeable to
said Report, — it was
Voted, that Col°. Josiah Waters
John Lucas Esqr.
[475.] Leonard Jarvis Esqr.
Major Thomas Melville
Cap'. Alexander Hodgden
be a Superintending Committee for the Purpose of Inlisting Men
for such Classes as may be delinquent, or such Classes as may de-
sire the same ; and that the said Committee shall have Power to
164 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
discharge any Class upon tbe Receipt of a Man who has passed
Muster, or the payment of such Sums of Money as in the Estima-
tion of said Committee shall be sufficient to procure a Man for said
Class ; and also to discharge any Person belonging to any Class
who shall pay his proportionable part of such Sums as the said
Committee shall determin to be sufficient to procure a Man for
said Class.
Voted, that the said Committee shall have power to give such
encouragement as they shall see necessary either of Monie or
Clothes or both, by appointing a Rendezvous or Recruting Officer
or any other wa}r their Judgement shall direct
Voted, that said Committee open the Enlistment on Reciet of
any Soldier from any Class shall deliver him over to the Superin-
tendent of the County, and take his Receipt for the same — also
Voted, that this Committee be generously rewarded for their
Servicies
Adjourned to Monday next being the 18th. Ins'. 3. O. Clock in
the Afternoon
[476.] Monday 3. Clock Afternoon met according to Ad-
journment
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. " To take into consideration
the Request of the Town Schoolmasters, that the Town will deter-
mine the Sum the}7 are to receive for their services from the first
of September last to the First of March next " — was read, where-
upon
Voted, that Ellis Gray Esqr.
Nath1. Appleton Esqr.
Mr. John Lowell
be a Committee to take this Matter into Consideration, and Report
as soon as may be
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. — "To consider what is
proper to be done for the accommodating of the Youth of the
South part of the Town with a School House in the Room of one
lately consumed by Fire " — was read, and considered whereupon
Voted that the Selectmen be directed to Apply to William Den-
nie for the hire of the Large Room in the Manufactory House
lately purchased by him, for the accommodation of the Youth of
the South part of the Town with a School House
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. " To consider what steps are
necessary for procuring Blankets Shirts, Shoes, and Stockings,
for the Army," — whereupon
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be directed to issue his Execu-
tion against the Collectors of Taxes [477.] before the 1'. of
January next for all such Sums as remaine due of tbe Taxes com-
mitted to them to Collect, previous to the last Silver Money Tax
— also
Voted, that a Committee be appointed to make enquirey of the
Treasurer and Collectors of Taxes, what Sums are now due as
outstanding Taxes, that are likely to be received — also
Voted, that Isaac Smith Esqr.
Samuel Henclley EsqT.
Mr. John Lowell
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 165
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid to make Report as soon
as may be
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. "To consider of the Request
of Messrs. Farrington and Davis, that Part of the Brick Wall of
what is called the Fortification, may be taken down for their
accomodatiou " was read — whereupon
Voted, that a Committee be appointed to consider the expe-
diency of this proposal ; first consulting his Excellency thereon,
and to make Report as soon as may be — also
Voted, that the Selectmen be a Committee for the purpose
aforesaid
On a Motion Voted, that the Selectmen be desired to procure
Blankets, Shirts, Shoes and Stockings for the Army, as soon as
may be — also
Voted, that the Treasurer give his notes therefor, payable in
Silver and Gold or Paper at the Current Exchange out of the next
Tax if there is not a sufficiently [478.] Of the present for that
purpose, said notes to carry an Interest
On a Motion Voted, that any Ward which is called upon for a
greater number of Men than is Agreeable to theire proportion of
the Publick Taxes, shall be allowed out of the Town Treasurey
the cost of every Man so levied
Voted, that the Deliquent Classes or Individuals in a Class
shall be Taxed fifty p cent over and above the charge of procuring
their proportion of Men
Voted, that all Matters and Things which remaine unfinished
at this Meeting be refferred over to the next Town Meeting then to
be acted upon
Then the Meeting was dessolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders, and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legaly Warned in publick Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Fryday the 22d. Day of
December Anno Domini 1780. 3. O. Clock Afternoon
Warrant for calling the Meeting, read
The Town having determined to choose a Moderator by a hand
Vote a Nomination was called for — and it Appeared that Thomas
Dawes Esqr. — was chosen Moderator of the Meeting
[479.] Thomas Dawes Esqr. in the Chair
The Article in the Warrant. Viz'. u To consider and determine
upon the best and most expeditious Measures for procuring this
Towns proportion of Beef for the Continental Army as required
by a Resolve of the General Court passed, the 4th. December
Instant — was read — also the Resolve of the General Court,
aforementioned — whereupon
Voted, that Caleb Davis Esqr.
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
Mr. Samuel Brick
166 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Samuel Ruggles Esqr.
Mr. Joseph Barrel
be a Committee to take this Matter into consideration, and Report
what they apprehend is the best Measures to be taken as soon as
may be
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. To Grant such further Sums
of Money for the purpose of carrying on the Wars " as may
be Judged necessary — was read
The Committee appointed the 18 Instant " to make enquirey of
the Town Treasurer and Collectors of Taxes, what Sums are due
for outstanding Taxes, that are likely to be received " — having
attended that service beg leave to Report
That they find due to the Several Collectors in this Town, about
two hundred and forty Thousand Pounds, out of which Sum Mr.
Thompson supposes thirty Thousand Pounds may be soon Col-
lected by him — Mr. Simmer about ten Thousand Pounds — Mr.
Torrey [48O.] Twenty five Thousand Pounds, and Mr. Shaw
Twenty Thousand Pounds — All which is Humbly Submitted
ISAAC SMITH p Order
On a Motion, Voted, that the Town Treasurer be impowered to
imploy an Assistant at the Charge of the Town, to assist in taking
out a true State of the Treasury to make Report at the Adjourn-
ment as soon as may be
Moved and Voted, that the Collectors be directed to exhibit to
the Committee to enquire of them &c the amount of the Notes
they have on hand, and what others they are to receive in the Sev-
eral Wards
The Committee relative to Persons who are Taxed in other
Towns as well as this Town Reported Verbally, with respect to
Col°. Sears Tax, whereby it appeared that Col°. Sears had paid
his Taxes both for his Real Estate and Faculty to the Town of
Roxbury
Adjourned to the 26th. of December 3. O. Clock — Afternoon
Tuesday the 26th of December 3. O. Clock — Afternoon — met
according to Adjournment
Col°. Daws in the Chair
The Committee relative to Beef, being called upon to Report,
they Acquainted the Town, that they were not able to Report, at
this Meeting — whereupon the Town came into the following Vote
— Viz'.
[481.] Whereas there is still a difficulty in the Monies Voted
to he raised for paying this Towns proportion of Beef for the Con-
tinental Army — therefore
Voted that the Collectors be enjoined to Collect the first Beef
Tax immediately, and to pay the same into the Treasurery, for
the sole purpose for procuring said Beef, also
Voted, that Deacon John Simkins
Mr. Isaac Peirce
Mr. James Bridgham
be a Committee to waite upon the several Collectors with a Copy
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1780. 167
of this Vote, and that they Press upon them, the necessity of their
immediately proceeding in this business
Moved and Voted, that the Assessors be directed to Attend at
the Adjournment of this Meeting
Caleb Davis Esqr. one of the Committee relative to Beef having
for Reasons which he offered, been excused, from serving further
on that Committee
Samuel Barret Esqr.
was appointed in his room —
Samuel Barrett Esqr. being excused from serving on the Com-
mittee aforesaid —
Col°. Tudor
was appointed in his room —
On a Motion Voted, that the Town Clerk cause the several
Committees to be Notified of this intended Adjournment of this
Meeting
[482.] Adjourned to Fryday next 3. O'Clock Afternoon
Fryday December 29th. 3. O'Clock P: M: Met according to Ad-
journment
Col°. Dawes, the Moderator being absent and having acquainted
the Town that he was not able to attend
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
was chosen Moderator
The Committee Appointed to consider and Report what steps
are necessary to be taken by the Town, to enable them to comply
with a Requisition of the General Court of the 4th. Instant, for
supplying the Army with 'Beef — Reported — and in conformity
to said Report, the following Votes were passed by the Town —
Viz4.
Whereas it is of the utmost importance that the Town should
forthwith comply with the Requisition of the General Court of the
4th. Instant for procuring Beef for the Army and whereas the
Money cannot be Collected by Taxes in Season to make the neces-
sary purchases — therefore
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be and he is hereby impowered
and directed to borrow a Sum not exceeding Nine thousand Pounds
lawful Money of the New Emission ; and that Gentelmen of
Property may be induced more redily and Speedily to advance
[483.] their Monies, and as an allowance for any inconvenience
the Person lending may sustain, by hastily raising the same
Voted, " that the Treasurer be and he hereby is directed to give
notes upon Interest payable in three Mouths, with an allowance of
ten per Cent or the Sum lent to be included in the Note, to any
Person who shall lend the same before the First Day of February
1781. — Said Money to be appropriated soleey for the purpose of
complying with the requisition of the General Court aforesaid, and
to prevent any injustice being done, either to the Town or the
lender
Voted; that the Notes given by the Town Treasurer, shall be in
the form following — Viz'.
168 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
\
Boston the 1781
In pursuance of a vote of the Town Passed the 29th. December
1780 — Borrowed and Received of the Sum of of the New
Emission, to enable the Town to comply with a Requisition of the
General Court of the Fourth of December last to procure Beef for
the Army, which Sum I Promise in behalf of Myself and Succes-
sors in the Office of Treasurer to repay said or Bearer in three
Months from the above date, with Lawfull Interest for the same
till paid to be made equal in value to the Sum received, in the
Judgement of the Committee appointed by the Town to determine
the same also
Voted, that John Scollay Esqr.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Mr. Edward Payne
be a Committee for the Purpose aforesaid
[484.] And whereas it is of the utmost importance both for
the Credit of the Town, and for the Security and Satisfaction of
the Lender, that the Treasurer should be enabled punctually to
discharge said notes, at the time affixed for payment
Voted, that the Sum of Nine Thousand pounds lawfull Money
of the New Emission be immediately Assessed on the Polls and
Estates of the Inhabitants of this Town, which Sum the Assessors
are hereby directed to Add to the Tax they are now making
And whereas it is absolutely necessary that the Money should
be immediately Collected, to prevent the Town being Subjected
to a large fine, in case of failure, and that the business may be
expidited as much as possible
Voted, that Stephen Higginson Esqr.
Mr. Daniel Bell
Mr. Samuel Brick
Mr. John Coffin Jones
Mr. Edward Payne
Mr. Stephen Bruce
Mr. Herman Brimmer
be a Committee to apply to the Inhabitants for an immediate
Loan of Money to the Town for the purposes and on the Condi-
tions aforesaid also
Voted, that Cap'. Amasa Davis
Mr. Ebenezer Dorr
Majr. John May
[485.] be a Committee to receive the Monies of the Town Treas-
urer or such part of it as shall be necessary to enable the Town to
comply with the requisition aforesaid, and pay the Same to the
Committee appointed by the General Court to procure supplys for
the Army, or to their Order, taking duplicate Receipts therefor,
agreeable to the directions given in said Resolve of the General
Court — also
Voted, that the Collectors of Taxes be and they hereby are
directed to receive the Notes given by the Treasurer for the above
purpose in payment for the Taxes levied to redeem said Notes,
allowino- the Interest that may be due thereon, and that the Treas-
urer be and he hereby is directed to receive them of the Collectors
accordingly in payment for said Tax
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 169
The Committee relative to Schoolmasters Reported, — That their
Allowances be drawn for by the Selectmen at the same rate for
the last Six Months, as the preceeding, and that the Committee
have leave to set again and Report at next March Meeting
On a Motion Voted, that all Matters unfinished at this Town
Meeting be referred to the next General Town Meeting
Moved and Voted, that the Gentelmen the Selectmen be desired
to apply to the General Court for an explanation of the Act
relative to Taxes, there being Persons who are Taxed for their
Faculty in Towns where they reside but do no business
[486.] Moved that this Meeting be Adjourned to Tuesday
next being the Ninth Day of January next, 3. O'Clock Afternoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Tuesday the Ninth Day of January 1781 — 3. O'Clock After-
noon — Met According to Adjournment
The Moderators of this Meeting not being able to give their
attendance at this Adjournment it was moved and Voted, that
the Town proceed to the choice of a Moderator Pro. Tern0.
Har bottle Dorr Esqr.
was accordingly chosen Moderator of this Meeting Pro. Tern0, and
took his Seat
The Committee appointed to procure Subscriptions for the pur-
chase of Beef for the Army were called upon to make Report, but
the Town being acquainted, that said .Committee were not able to
make Report at this Meeting — it was moved, and
Voted, that this Meeting be now dissolved
And the Meeting was accordingly dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned, in Publick
[487.] Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuiel Hall on Monday
the 22 Day of January Anno Domini 1781
Warrant for calling the Meeting read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw, and bring in their
Votes, for a Moderator, and the same having been brought in and
counted, it appeared that
Stephen Higgiuson Esqr.
was chosen Moderator, unanimously
The Committee appointed to procure Subscriptions for the pro-
curing Beef for the Army, Reported, whereby it appeared that
Three Persons only had as yet Subscribed, for the Purpose afore-
said
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. — " To consider and determine
upon Measures for the immediate obtaining the Towns proportion
of Beef for the Continental Army to avoid the penalty which will
otherwise be incurred " — was read — and after debate had there-
on, it was moved and
Voted, that the Report of the Committee be Recommitted, and
that the Gentelmen of the Committee be desired to Apply to the
170 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
several Inhabitants of the Town in order to procure such Sums as
they are disposed to Lend, the Same to be deducted out of their
respective Taxes for Beef
Voted, that Cap . William Mackay
Cap'. Nathaniel Fellows
be added to the Committee on Subscriptions
[488.] The A-rticle in the Warrant Viz1. " To Grant such
Sums of Money as may be Judged necessary" — was read and
the further consideration thereof referred
The Article in the Warrant — Viz1. " To consider what is proper
to be done to secure the Town from Fires, to which it is greatly
exposed at the present season by the want of suitable Chimney
Sweepers under proper Regulations was read — whereupon
Voted, that the Selectmen be and they hereby are Authorised
and impowered to appoint One or more Suitable Persons for
Sweeping Chimneys upon such terms and under Such regulations,
as they shall Judge most for the Interest of the Town and Safety
of the Inhabitants, the charge of sweeping to be defryed by those
who shall employ them
The Committee appointed for Inlisting this Towns proportion
of Men for the Continental Army Reported Verbally — and it Ap-
peared to be the sense of the Town, that the Committee proceed in
that business
Then the Meeting was dessolved
[489.] At a, Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned, in
Publick Town Meeting Assembled at Fanueil Hall on Monday the
5th. Day of March Anno Domini 1781
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
John Brown Esqr.
was chosen Moderator of this Meeting unanimously
The Committee appointed by the Town the 6th. of March Last
to apply to a proper Gentelman to deliver an Oration the 5th. of
March Ins', to perpetuate the Memory of the horred Massacre
perpetrated on the Evening of the 5th March 1770 — by a Party
of Soldiers under the Command of Cap'. Thomas Preston of the
29th. Regiment — Reported
That having met several times for the purposes mentioned in the
Town Vote, that they had unanimously made choice of Mr. Thomas
Daws Junr. to deliver an Oration on the 5th. of March Instant who
had accordingly accepted of that Service
The foregoing Report having been made, the Question was put
— Whether the same shall be accepted — Passed in the Afferma-
tive
Upon a Motion — the Town took into consideration, what would
be the best time to have the Oration pronounced, as also what
place would be most suitable for the purpose — whereupon
[49O.] Voted, that the Oration be delivered at the Old Brick
Meeting House, the Hall not being capatious enough to receive
the Inhabitants that attended upon the occasion
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 171
Voted that Ebenr. Hancock Esqr.
Mr. Jouathn. Mason Jur.
Mr. Samuel Ruggles Esqr.
be a Committee to wait upon Mr. Thomas Dawes and acquaint him
that it is the desire of the Town, that the Oration may be delivered
at the Old Brick meeting House 12. O: Clock this Day — as also
to ask leave of the Committee of said Church for the use of that
Building
On a Motion — Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to Order
the Several Bells in the Town to be tolled from one quarter of an
Hour after 9. O. Clock this Evening untill 10. O. Clock
Adjourned to the Old Brick Meeting House 12. O. Clock
The Town met at the Old Brick Meeting House 12 O. Clock ac-
cording to Adjournment
The Committee appointed to wait upon Mr. Thomas Daws Jur.
to acquaint him with the Votes, of the Town, respecting the time
and Place for the delivery of an Oration — Reported
That said Gentelman was ready to Comply with the Order of
the Town
[491.] An Oration, to commemorate the horred Massacre of
the Fifth of March 1770 — and to impress upon the Minds of the
Citizens, the ruinous tendency of Standing Armies being placed in
Free and Populous Cities &c. was delivered by Mr. Thomas Daws
Junr. to a large and crowded Assembly, and received by them
with great Applause
On a Motion made Voted, that
John Brown Esqr.
John Scollay Esqr.
Mr. Nathan Frazier
Mr. Barret
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
Mr. Tuttle Hubbard
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to wait upon Mr.
Thomas Daws Junr. and in the name of the Town to thank him
for the Spirited and elegant Oration delivered by him at their
request, in commemoration of the horred Massacre perpetrated on
the Evening of the 5 of March 1770, by a Party of Soldiers, of the
29th. Regiment under the Command of Cap'. Thomas Preston, and
to request of him a Copy thereof, for the Press sent
On a Motion made, Voted, that
John Brown Esqr. Moderator
Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr.
Harbottle Dorr P^sqr.
Mr. Thomas Daws Jur.
Mr. Jonathan Mason Jur.
Ellis Gray Esqr,
[492.] John Lowell Esqr.
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to Apply to a proper
Gentelman to deliver an Oration on the 5th. of March next, to
perpetuate the Memory of the horred Massacre perpetrated on the
172 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Evening of the 5th. of March 1770, by a Party of Soldiers of the
29th. Regiment, under the Command of Cap'. Thomas Preston ;
and to impress upon our Minds the runious tendincy of Standing
Armies being placed in Free and Populas Cities in a time of Peace ;
and the necessity of such noble Exertions in all future times, as
the Inhabitants of the Town then made, whereby the Designs of
the Conspirators against the publick peace, may be still frustrated
— sent
A Petition of Mr. Robert Patterson setting forth "that he re-
ceived a Wound in his right Ann the 5 March 1770 by a Shot
from Prestons Party whereby he has entirely lost the use of it ;
and that Since the Death of Mr. Monk he is the only one of the
unhappy number then badly wounded, that survives," and there-
fore praying the charity of the Town — was read — Whereupon
Voted, that a Collection be made at the close of this Meeting
for the said unhappy Sufferer ; and Boxes were placed at each
Door to receive the Collections
The Collection made for the said Mr. Patterson, Amounted to
the Sum of
Then the Meeting was dessolved
[493.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and Other Inhab-
itants of the Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned,
in Publick Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuiel Hall on Monday
the 12th. Day of March Anno Domini 1781 — 9. OClock Fore-
noon
Prayer was made by the Revd. Mr. Eckley
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
Sundry Laws enjoined to be read at this Meeting, were accord-
ingly — read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting, and the same being brought
in and Sorted it appeared, that
John Brown Esqr.
was chosen Moderator
Mr. William Cooper was chosen Town Clerk for the year ensu-
ing, and took the Oath of Office for the faithfull discharge of his
Duty, which Oath was administred by Mr. Justice Price
The Town having determined by a Vote to choose Seven Select-
men ; the Inhabitants, were then directed to withdraw and bring
in their Votes for that Number, and the same being brought in
and Sorted, it appeared that the following Gentelmen Viz1.
[494.] John Scollay Esqr.
Cap'. Gustavus Fellows
Harbottle Dorr Esqr.
Mr. Nathan Frazier
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Cap1. William Mackay
Mr. Tuttle Hubbard
were chosen Selectmen for the Year ensuing
BOSTOX TOWN EECORDS, 1781. 173
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for Nine Persons as a
Committee of Correspondence Inspection and Safety, and upon
sorting them it appeared that
Nathaniel Barber Esqr.
Edward Proctor Esqr.
Cap1. John Pulling
Ebenezer Hancock Esqr
Cap'. Isaac Phillips
Samuel Ruggles Esqr.
Majr. Thomas Melville
Jonathan Mason Jur.
Mr. Christopher Clark
were chose a Committee of Correspondence &c for the year ensu-
ing
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for twelve Overseers of
the Poor, and upon sorting them it appeared that
The Honble. William Phillips Esqr.
Isaac Smith Esqr.
Mr. Jonathan Mason
Cap'. Samuel Partridge
Mr. Samuel Whitwell
[495.] Mr. John White
Edward Proctor Esqr.
William Powell Esqr.
Mr. Jonathan Sweetser Jur.
Samuel Barret Esqr.
Mr. Nicholas Bowes
Joseph Webb Esqr.
were chosen Overseers of the Poor for the Year ensuing
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for twelve Wardens,
and upon sorting them it appeared, that
Mess™. Robert Davis
Stephen Gore
Major Thomas Bumstead
John Champney
Samuel Wallis
Habijah Savage
John Wait
Nathaniel Barret
Edward Wild
Samuel Eliot Junr.
Edward Edes
Jncob Holland
were chosen Wardens for the Year ensuing
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for Sixteen Fire Wards,
and upon sorting them it appeared, that
John Scollay Esqr.
William Cooper
Francis Shaw Esqr.
Edward Procter Esqr.
[496.] Cap1. John Pulling
Caleb Davis Esqr.
174 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Tileston
Andrew Syniras Esqr.
Cap'. Gustavus Fellows
Joseph Webb Esqr.
Cap'. John Ballard
Mr. John Winthrop
Mr. John Lowell
Majr. Thomas Melville
Jabez Hatch Esqr.
were chose Fire Wards for the Year ensuing
On a Motion — Voted, that the Choice of a County Treasurer
and a County Register, be Assigned to 4. O. Clock Afternoon
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for a Town Treasurer
aud upon sorting them it appeared that David Jeffries was chosen,
Town Treasurer for the Year ensuing, unanimously
On a Motion, Voted, that the Question Whether Collectors of
Taxes shall be chosen Seperate from Constables — be considered
at £ past 4. OClock in the Afternoon
Voted, that the Constables of the Town be desired to enform
the Town at £ past 4 OClock Afternoon, what they apprehend to
be the Towns proportion of Fines, which are due from the several
Justices
[497.] On a Motion — Voted, that the Question Whether
Collectors of Taxes shall be chosen seperate from Constables —
be considered at /
Moved and Voted that the choice of Assessors be postponed to
5. 0. Clock — Afternoon —
Adjourned to 3. O. Clock in the Afternoon • —
3 O'Clock. P: M: Met according to Adjournm*.
Majr. Edward Carnes
was chosen a Surveyer of Hemp for the Year ensuing
Mess™. Benjamin Page
John Stutson
Moses May
John Lambert
Joseph Ballard
Uriah Norcross
Benjamin White
Joseph Butler
Samuel Fenno
Henry Blaisdel
John Champney
Thomas Bayley
Edward Ranger
John Bell
Abraham Howard
Samuel Dellaway
Jonathan Stoddard
Thomas Uran
were chose Surveyors of Boards for the year ensuing
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 175
Mess". William Clough
Joseph Daniels
Samuel Dyer
[498.] Nathaniel Wales
William Brown
were chose Fence Viewers for the Year ensuing
Mess". Samuel Bangs
Nathan Green
Samuel Curtis
Isaac Bird
were chose Sealers of Leather for the ensuing Year
Mr. Adam Colson
was chosen an Informer of Deer for the Year ensuing
Mess". David Spear
Manassah Masters
Joseph Spear
John Williston
Joshua Pico
Samuel Heyley
William Raynard
John Owen
Samuel Avis
Caleb Hayden
Israel Cook
were chose Cullers of Staves for the Year ensuing
Messra. George Hamlin
Samuel Curtis
Joseph Snelling
were chose Hogreeves for the ensuing Year —
Mess". George Hamlin
Isaac Tuckerman
were chose Haywards for the ensuing Year
Ward.
[499.] Mess". Samuel Clough N°. 1
John Lambert 2
James Sherman 3
John Cogswell 4
John Dinsdell ------ 5
John Welch - 6
William Peake ------ 7
David Burrel 8
Elisha Sigorney ;.»•• -•-. - - - 9
Andrew Oliver 10
William Fallass ----- n
Charles Simpson ----- 12
were chose Scavingers for the ensuing Year
Votes, for a County Treasurer, brought in and being sealed up
in Town Meeting were delivered to Mr. Constable Colson to be by
him returned to the Court of General Sessions of the Peace, at
tlieir next Meeting
Votes, for a County Register, brought in and being sealed up
in Town Meeting were delivered to Mr. Constable Colson, to be by
176 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
him returned to the Court of General Sessions of the Peace at
their next Meeting
On a Motion Voted, that the Town Treasurer be and he hereby
is impowered and directed to allow the Overseers of the Poor
Interest as, usual on all Suras that have or may be Advanced by
them, for the Support of the Almshouse
Moved, that a Committee be appointed to consider the present
Condition of the Almshouse — to enquire what part of the Monies
appropriated for the [5OO.] Support of the Almshouse has been
received, and to devise tlie best means, for a timely and regular
supply, and to Report at the Adjournment — the Question being
accordingly put — Passed in the Affermative
Voted, that Ellis Gray Esqr.
Mr. Joseph Barrel
Mr. Joseph Russel
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
This being the time Assigned for taking up the Question —
Viz'. Whether Collectors shall be chosen seperate from Constables
— after debate had thereon — It was moved and carried that the
further consideration of this matter subside for the present
On a Motion of Mr. Grays, Voted, that a Committee of Ways
and Means be appointed, who shall take into consideration the
State of the Towns Finances, the present mode of Assessing and
Collecting their Taxes, and to Report as soon as may be such
alterations as they Judge expedient
Voted, that Ellis Gray Esqr.
John Lowell Esqr
John Brown Esqr.
Mr. Leonard Jarvis
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
Mr. Edward Payne
Nathaniel Barret
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
On a Motion, the Question was put Viz'. Whether the present
mode of Assessing be agreeable — [5O1.] passed in the Nega-
tive — also on a Motion — the Question was put. Viz'. Whether
the present mode of Collecting the Taxes, Assessed, be Agreea-
ble— Passed in the Negative
Cap1. Fellows one of the Selectmen chosen at this Meeting hav-
ing in Writing prayed that he might be excused from serving in
that Office, the Present year it was moved and carried, that the
consideration of this request be referred to the Adjournment
This being the time Assigned for making enquirey of the Con-
stables, with respect to the Towns proportion of Fines which the
Justices received and are accountable for — this matter was taken
up — whereupon a Motion, was made, and carried *'that a Com-
mittee be now appointed, to make enquirey what Monies may be
due to the Town from the Justices, as the Towns proportion of
Fines and Forfitures — also
Voted, that Mr. Joseph Barrel
Dr. Charles Jarvis
Mr. Joseph Russell
be a Committee for said purpose to Report as soon as may be
BOSTON TOWN KECOKDS, 1781. 177
It was moved, that this Meeting he Adjourned to to Morrow
Morning 10. O'Clock
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Tuesday March 13th. 10. O'Clock Before noon — Met according
to Adjournment
[5O2.] Information having been been given to this Meeting
that two Persons were got to Town from Philadelphia with large
quantities of Paper Moneys which they had offered to exchange
for Silver at upwards of one hundred for one, when the common
exchange is but Seventy five for one — whereupon it was moved
and Voted,
That the Committee of Correspondence Inspection and Safety
for the Town of Boston be directed to send for those Persons, and
have them under examination, in order to their being dealt with
as the Safety of this and the other United States require
A Letter from the Committee of the Town of Stoughton to the
Selectmen of Boston relative to meeting in a proposed Convention,
with respect to the Tender Act so called, lately repealed was laid
before the Town by the Selectmen
The following Persons were chose Clerks of the Market for the
Year ensuing — Viz1.
Mess™ : Joseph Roby
Thomas Clark
James Morrel
Nathaniel Fosdick
Thomas Newell
James Carrew
William Smith
William Gooch
Pepperal Tyler
Joseph Winthrop
[5O3.] Nathan Bond
Thomas Coverly Vei non
Voted, that Ellis Gray Esqr.
Honble. Caleb Davis Esqr.
Ebenezer Storer Esqr.
Mr. Herman Brimmer
Mr. Joseph Barrel
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to Audit the Accompts
of David Jeffries Esqr. Treasurer and also the Accompts of the
Overseers of the Poor ; and the said Committee are impowered
when they shall Audit said Accounts to allow such of the Over-
seers as have Advanced Monies for the relief of the Poor,
Interest on all such Sums from the time so Advanced, untill they
shall have Audited said Accounts ; and they are also desired to
Report from Time to time a State of the Treasurey respecting its
debts and credits, and on any Matters they may think proper
And the Committee are also directed to examine the Draughts
of the Selectmen
Mr. Wallis chosen one of the Wardens for the Year ensuing
178 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
having desired the Town to excuse him from serving in that
Office — he was accordingly excused
On a Motion made, it was Voted that the further consideration of
the Excuses made for not serving as Wardens be referred to the
Adjournment
The Selectmen
were chose Surveyors of High Ways for the Year ensuing
[5O4.] Jonathan Williams Esqr.
Mr. John Sweetser Junr.
MJ. John White
were chose Purchasers of Grain for the Year ensuing, and they
are desired and impowered to give aU needfull directions to the
Keeper of the Granary respecting the quantity of Grain to be sold,
and affixing the prices thereof from time to time as occasion shall
require ; and the said Committee are directed to cause all the
Grain belonging to the Town to be ground at the new Mills near
the Mill Bridge
John Tudor Esqr.
John Lucas Esqr.
Mr. John White
Mr. James Thwing
Mr. John Sweetser
were chose Surveyors of Wheat for the Year ensuing
Messre. Thomas Green
Benjamin Thompson
•were chose Assay Masters for the Year ensuing
Voted, that the consideration of Sch.oolmasters Salaries and
Grants, be referred over to May Meeting
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. What Lands shall be improved
by the Town the present Year for the raising of Vegitables — was
read, whereupon
Voted, John Lucas Esqr.
Cap1. Job Prince. Sen1.
Mr. John Lowell
[5O5.] be a Committee to take this Article into considera-
tion, and Report at the Adjournment of this Meeting
It was moved that this Meeting be Adjourned to Tuesday next,
the 20th of March Ins1. 9. OClock Before Noon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Tuesday March 20th. 9. OClock Forenoon — Met according to
Adjournment
Mess". John Bulfinch
Clement Collins Junr.
were chose Surveyors of Boards for the year ensuing
The Address of the General Assembly of this Commonwealth
to the Inhabitants of the Same relative to Money Matters &c. was
distinctly read in this Meeting
The Article in the Warrant — Viz1. To consider what is neces-
sary to be done for the accommodation of the Youth of the South
part of the Town with a Schoolhouse in the room of one consumed
by Fire — was read and considered — whereupon, it was Voted,
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 179
that the Selectmen be directed and impowered to apply to the
General Assembly of this Commonwealth at their next Sessions,
for the use of a Room in the Manufactory House so called, for
the accomodation of the Youth of the South part of the Town
with a School in the room of one lately consumed by Fire
The Comittee appointed by the Town to [5O6.J consider
of the present method of Assessing and Collecting Taxes &c have
attended that Service and Report that upon enquiring they find
the Expence of Assessing and Collecting the State, County and
Town Taxes for the last Year was nearly equal to all the Other
Town Charges put together — that in order to ease the Inhabitants
who are necessarily burthened with heavy Taxes to carry on the
War they propose a new mode comprised in the following Votes
for the consideration of the Town
Voted that there be two discreat men in each Military ward
chosen to Assess, such State County and Town'Taxes as may be
ordered the ensuing Year, on the Inhabitants that live in those
Wards respectively and one other Person in each Ward to Collect
the Same
Voted, that neither the Assessors nor Collectors shall receive
any pay for their Servicies save the thanks and Gratitude of their
fellow Citizens
Voted, that in all cases where the Assessors for want of Valua-
tions are Oblidged to Doom, they shall have a right to advise with
those whom they think Proper, as to the Circumstances of the
Persons to be doomed
Voted, That when the Assessors have compleated the Estima-
tions for their Respective Wards, it shall be their duty to convene
and go over the several Estimations in order to rectify any Errors
that may appear in them and to see that they have [5O7.] all
adopted the same Standard in forming their Estimates — and hav-
ing done this to see how much in the pound, the Tax to be As-
sessed turns out upon the whole Capital of the Town, and by that
Rule to Assess the Inhabitants in their Respective Wards
Voted, That the Books of the Assessors shall be open to the
Inspection of any Person who wants to see the amount of An-
others Tax or the principales on which the Assesment is founded
Voted, that as soon as the Assessors for anv Ward have Com-
pleated their Assesment they shall send Tax Bills printed in the
usual Form to the Inhabitants of that Ward, and the Collectors
shall within days after the delivery of said Tax Bills, de-
liver to the Constables, an attested List of all those Persons,
who have not paid their Taxes or any Part thereof — and it shall
be the duty of the said Constables, or Collectors, immediately to
Collect the same by Distraint or otherwise as may be necessary,
for which purpose they shall have a Warrant from the Assessors,
and be allowed a premium of 5 p Cent on all Sums which they
shall so collect — And whereas great Advantages, will arise to the
Publick from the Taxes being early and punctually paid in
Voted, That the Collectors be and they hereby are directed
and impowered to deduct 5 p Cent from the Amount of the Tax
Bills of all those Persons who shall within Forty Days after the
Date of the same pay in their Taxes to the Constables
180 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
[5O8.] And the Committee prayed leave to Report further
The foregoing Report having been read after some debate, it
was Voted, that said Report be taken up by paragraphs
The Paragraph's of said Report having been distinctly read and
considered the Five First of the same were Accepted
Adjourned to 3 O. Clock in the Afternoon
3 O. Clock P: M: met according to Adjournment
Mess". John Gammel — sworn
James Rogers
were chose Surveyors of Boards, for the Year ensuing
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. " To consider the request of
Nathan Frazier, that the Monies he has Advanced for the Town,
for severall years past may be repaid him " — was read, whereupon
Voted, that Mr. Joseph Russell
Ezekiel Price
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
be a Committee to consider this request and Report the Sum that
may be due to him at the Adjournment
The Report of the Committee on Ways and Means again taken
up, and after considerable debate had thereon it was moved and
carried that the Report be recommitted at large, notwithstanding
five paragraphs thereof have been Accepted — the Committee to
Report at the Adjournment of this Meeting
[5O9.] On a Motion. Voted, that
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Col°. Tudor
be added to said Committee
On a Motion, Voted, that a Commitee be now appointed to Join
the Assessors in preparing an Abstract that may serve for taking
the Valuation in this Town, to lay before the General Court
Voted, that Col°. Dawes
Mr. Joseph Barrel
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
Mr. Leonard Jarvis
Isaac Smith Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid — sent
The Committee relative to the Fees due from some Justices, to
this Town as its part of Fines by them received — Reported ver-
bally, whereupon it was moved and Voted, that The Town
Treasurer be directed to wait upon the several Justices and ac-
quaint them that it is the expectation of the Town that they
immediatley settle with him for the Towns proportion of Fines re-
ceived by them
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
Added to the Committee on Ways and Means in the room of Mr.
Gray, who is prevented by Sickness from attending the Committee
The Committee to consider the expediency of improving Land
in this Town for the raising Vegitables the present Year. — Re-
ported, that in their [51O.] Opinion ; it would be for the Advan-
tage of the Town to improve the Land at West Boston for the
raising: Vegetables
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 181
Adjourned to Monday next being the 22 Day of March Instant,
9. O'Clock Forenoon —
Monday the 26. Day of March 9. O. Clock Forenoon — Met ac-
cording to Adjournment
Voted, that
Cap'. Job Prince Senr.
Mr. Isaac Pierce
Mr Rouse
Mr. Jeremiah Belknap
be a Committee to improve the Land, at West Boston for the
raising of Vegitables, which were improved for that Purpose the
last year, and so much more land as can be obtained on the same
conditions with last as the Committee may Judge to be for the
Interest and benefit of the Town
The Article in the Warrant. Viz*. " To consider whether the
Town will Lease or make sale of any part of their Lands on the
Neck agreeable to the request of several of the Inhabitants " —
whereupon it was moved and Voted, that the consideration of this
Article be referred to 4. O. Clock. Afternoon
On a Motion, Voted, the consideration of Cap'. Bradfords Peti-
tion come on, immediately after the consideration of the forego-
ing Article
[511.] The Article in the Warrant Viz1. "To consider
whether the Town will allow the same premium to those who have
advanced Monies for the Purchase of Cloathing for the Army as
they have to such as have done it for the procuring of Buef " —
was read and considered whereupon
Voted, that the. same Premium of ten per Cent be allowed those
Persons who have advanced Monies for the Town for the procur-
ing Cloathing for the' Continental Army as was allowed those who
lent their Monies for the procuring Beef
The Town Treasurer, Reported to the Town that Agreeable to
their directions he had applied to the Justices for a settlement of
the Towns part of the Fi-nes which they had received — that Mr.
Justice Gardner haid paid Eight hundred Dollars on Account of
said, Fines and that when their Accounts against the Town were
allowed by the Selectmen, they would settle with him for the
Fines they had received — Whereupon it was moved and Voted,
that the Town Treasurer should again apply to the Justices, and
demand a particular account of the Towns part of the Fines by
them received
The Committee appointed to make full enquirey into the Affairs
of the Town respecting debts and Credits have attended that ser-
vice and according to information of the Town Treasurer find the
Town indebted to sundry Persons as p List herewith rendered
from the year 1762— to 1776 including - - - 8083 5 Of
Ballances due in - - - 1777 - - - - 2980 - 10
ditto in 1778 - - - - 3678 7 10
[512.] Ballance due in 1779 - ... 13299 19 3
Ballance due to May 20th. 1780 - - - - 33335 11 3
the whole exclusive of Interest Amounting to £61,377. 4. 2f
182 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
The Committee have also received from the Treasurer a List of
Debts due from sundry Persons to the Town which together with
a List of expenditures, as aiso a List of Rents from the Selectmen
are herewith respectfully Submitted
JOSIAH WATERS JuNr. p order
The foregoing Report having been read together with the
Lists referred to in the Report, it was moved and Voted, that a
Committee to assist and advise the Town Treasurer in settling
Accompts and Collecting the debts due to the Town as by a List
on file, and that the Treasurer be and hereby is impowered to
hire a suitable Person as a Clerk for so long a time as he and the
Committee may Judge to be necessary also
Voted, that Col°. Waters
Mr. Joseph Russell
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
The Committee relative to ways and Means, Reported, where-
upon it was moved and Voted, that the Report be taken up at
3. O.'Clock Afternoon
Adjourned to 3. O'Clock in the Afternoon
3 O'Clock, Afternoon — Met according to Adjournment
[513.] The Report of the Committee relative to Ways and
Means, again taken up at large, and after considerable debate
had thereon, it was moved and carried, that the same be further
considered paragraph by paragraph
The foregoing Report having been considered by paragraphs
and amended by the Town, the same was reduced to the follow-
ing Votes, which were passed bv a Majority of the Inhabitants.
Viz'.
Voted, that there be twentj' four discreat Men, two out of each
Military Ward, chosen as Assessors the ensuing Year to levy
and Assess upon the Polls and Estates of the Inhabitants of
the Town and other Persons, doing business therein all such
Commonwealth County and Town Taxes as may be ordered, said
Assessors to be under oath as the Law directs
Voted, that it is the undoubted right of every Inhabitant to
inspect the Books of the Assessors, and be informed of the
principles upon which any Assessments are made, and the Assess-
ors are directed to conform accordingly
Voted, that the Assessors aforesaid shall be entitled to no
pecuniary reward for the services aforesaid
Voted, that in all cases where the Assessors for want of
Valuations are oblidged to doom, they shall have a right to advise
with those whom they think proper as to the circumstances of the
Persons to be so doomed
[514.] Voted, that where the Assessors have compleated the
estimations for their respective Wards, it shall be their duty to
convene and go over the several estimations in order to rectify
any Errors that may happen in them, and to see that they have all
adopted the same standard in forming their Estimates, and having
done this to see how much in the pound the Tax to be Assessed
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 183
turns out, upon the whole Capital of the Town, and by that rule
to Assess the Inhabitants in their respective Wards
Several of the foregoing Votes or parts of the Report of the
Committee reconsidered
Voted, that the Assessors be and hereby are impowered and
directed to set for such Abatement of Taxes, as they shall Judge
reasonable, ten days next following the date and delivery of the
Tax Bills, Lords Days excepted, and no longer, saving that they
be allowed to set two Days the last Week in February for the
Abatement of the Taxes of such Persons as had not an opper-
tunity of applying in the above limitted time, by reason of their
being out of the Commonwealth, or any other unavoidable hin-
drance ; at which time the}' are also allowed and impowered to
abate the Taxes of such Persons as may have died Insolvent
before the said time
Adjourned to Thursday next 10. O'Clock Before Noon
Thursday the 29th. of March 10. O'Clock P: M: Met according
to Adjournment
[515.] On a Motion made — the Question was put Viz*. —
Whether Collectors of Taxes shall be chose seperate from Con-
stables — Passed in the Affermative
The Petition of Cap'. John Bradford for an abatement of his
Taxes, was read, and considered, whereupon it was moved and
carried, that the said Petitioner have leave to withdraw his
Petition
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. — To consider whether the
Town will Lease or make Sale of any part of their Land on the
Neck, Agreeable to the request of several of the Inhabitants." —
was again read, and after some debate bad thereon — It was
moved and Seconded, that a Committee be now appointed to take
this matter into further consideration ; and to Report their
Opinion to the Town as soon as may be — And the Question
being accordingly put — Passed in the Affermative
It was moved and passed that this Committee consist of Nine
Persons
Voted that Deacon Sharp
Harbottle Dorr Esqr.
Col°. Andrew Symms
Thomas Dawes Esqr.
Cap'. John Ballard
John Lucas Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Parker
Col°. Barbei-
William Story Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid to Report to the Town as
soon as may be
Adjourned to Fryday next 10. O'Clock Beforenoon
[516.] Fryday March 30th. 10 O. 'Clock Forenoon — Met ac-
cording to Adjournment
John Brown Esqr. the Moderator of this Meeting acquainted
184 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
the Town that his health would not allow him to attend his duty
this Day as Moderator
The Inhabitants were therefore directed to withdraw and bring
in their Votes for a Moderator of the Meeting Pro. Tern0. — And
the Votes being accordingly brought in and sorted, it appeared
that
John Tudor Esqr.
was chosen Moderator Pro. Tern0.
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for four Wardens.
The Bells ringing for Fire, before the Votes were brought in, a
Motion was made that the Meeting be Adjourned to 3. O. Clock
Afternoon — and the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
3 O'Clock Afternoon, Met according to Adjournment
The Inhabitants were again directed to withdraw and bring in
their Votes for four Wardens ; and the same having been brought
in and sorted it appeared, that
Mess™. Elisha Sigorney excused
Joseph Prince
Israiel Loring
G. W. Speakman excused
were chosen Wardens for the ensuing Year
[517.] It was moved and Voted, that when this Meeting is
Adjourned; it shall be to toMorrow. 9. OClock Forenoon — also
Voted, that the Cryer be directed to inform the Inhabitants of
the Adjournment and that he be furnished by the Town Clerk with
a written Notification — also that the several Sextons be directed
to ring the Bells of the Several Churches at the intended Adjourn-
ment
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for twelve Constables, and the same being brought in and
sorted, it appeared that
Mess™. Edward Tuckerman excused
Jonathan Amory d°.
John Read d°.
Benjamin Clark d°.
Joseph Barrel d°.
John Welch d°.
"William Clark d°.
Mungo Mackay d°.
Ellis Gray d°.
Samuel Eliot d°.
Daniel Parker d°.
Thomas Adams d°.
were chosen Constables for the Year ensuing
Cap'. Robert Davis having desired the Town to excuse him_
from serving as a Warden the ensuing Year — he was accordingly
excused
Mr. Stephen Gore chosen one of the Wardens for the Year
ensuing having desired to be excused from serving [518.] in that
Office — he was accordingly excused by the Town
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 185
Voted, that this Meeting be now Adjourned according to the
Vote already passed ; — and it was accordingly Adjourned
Saturday the 31 Day of March, 9. O'Clock Forenoon met
according to Adjournment
The Article in the Warrant Viz' : To consider whether the
Town will Lease the North Battery for a long term " — was read,
and after some debate, it was moved and carried, that the further
consideration of this Article be referred
The Inhabitants were then directed to withdraw, and bring iii
their Votes for four Wardens — and the same having been
brought in and sorted it appeared that
Messr8. John Larkin
Samuel Avis
Hopestill Foster
Nath1. Sheppard
were chose Wardens for the ensuing Year
Mess™ : Edward Tuckerman Jonathan Amory, John Read,
Beuja. Clark, Joseph Barrell, John Welch, Mungo Mackay,
Ellis Gra}r, Samuel Eliot, Daniel Parker and Thomas Adams,
chosen Constables for the ensuing Year, having desired the Town
to excuse them from serving in that Office — they were accordingly
excused
[519.] It being moved that the 1st. Vote of the Report of
the Committee on Ways and Means for choosing twenty four
Assessors, be now reconsidered, and that Seven Assessors only
be now chosen, the Question was accordingly put, and passed in
the Affermative
It was also moved that the 3d. Vote, in said Report, relative to
the Assessors not being allowed a precuniary reward for their Ser-
vicies in that Office be now reconsidered and set aside — and the
Question being accordingly put — Passed in the Affermative
The Inhabitants were then directed to bring in their Votes for
seven Assessors, and the same being brought in and sorted, it
appeared that only four were chosen — Viz4.
Mess™. William Lowder
Samuel Downe
Samuel Ruggles Esq
Bartholomew Kneeland
The Inhabitants as directed, brought in their Votes for three
Assessors and the same toeing sorted it appeared, that
Gyles Harris Esqr. — excused.
Moses May
Samuel Dyer
were chosen Assessors for the Year ensuing
Adjourned to 3. O'Clock in the Afternoon
3. O'Clock P: M: met according to Adjournment
On a Motion made — Voted, that the last Vote in the Report of
the Committee on Ways and Means be reconsidered and set aside
[52O.] Voted, that two and one half p Cent, be and hereby
is allowed to the Persons that shall be chose Collectors of Taxes for
the year ensuing, on all such Sums of Money as they shall Collect,
186 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
provided they pay the same into the Several Treasuries before the
second Monday in March 1782 — which Premium appears to be a
Just and equitable and an ample allowance to the Collectors, to
encourage them to discharge their duty with diligence and fidelity ;
provided also that each of said Collectors give Bond with Suffi-
cient Sureties to the Satisfaction of the Selectmen for the faithfull
discharge of their duty in said Office, and complying with this
Vote
Voted, that the Collectors of Taxes be and they hereby arc
directed and impowered to deduct five p cent from the Amount of
the Town Tax, on the Tax Bills of all those Persons who shall
within forty Days after the date of the same pay in their Town
Taxes to said Collectors, and that this be noted on the Tax Bill
— also
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be directed and impowered to
allow the deduction of the Five p. Cent aforesaid made by the
Collectors as aforesaid provided they pay the same within five
Days after the expiration of the forty
The Town having determined to Choose four Collectors of
Taxes for the year ensuing ; the Inhabitants were desired to
withdraw and bring in their Votes accordingly, and the same
having been brought in and sorted, it appeared, that
[521.] Francis Shaw Esqr.
Mr. Benjamin Sumner Juur.
Mr. Thomas Bayley
Mr. James Thompson
were chosen Collectors of Taxes for the Year ensuing
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for 12 Constables, in the room of those who were chosen in
the Forenoon & declined, serving — and the same having been
brought in and sorted, it appeared, that
Mess™. Samuel Whitney (sworn)
John Ballard ----- excused
William Fallass d°.
John Cogswell ----- d°.
Jacob Edes d°.
John Woart d°.
Nathaniel Cobbit d°.
Benjamin Clarke d°.
John Rice - d°.
Jeremiah Belknap - - - - d°.
Shubaiel Hews d°.
Elijah Marsh d°.
were chosen
Adjourned to Monday next being the 2d. Day of April.
3. O.Clock Afternoon
Monday the 2d. Day of April. 3. O.Clock Afternoon — Met
according to Adjournment —
Mr. Jeremiah Belknap
Mr. John Rice
Cap'. John Ballard
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 187
Mr. John Cogswell
[522.] Mr. Jacob Edes
Mr. John Woart
Mr. Elijah Marsh
Mr. Shubael Hewes
Mr. William Fallass
Mr. Benjamin Clark
having desired the Town to excuse them from serving in the
Office of Constables to which they had been chosen at the last
Meeting — they were accordingly excused
Upon, the Inhabitants being directed to withdraw and bring in
their Votes for ten Constables in the room of those which have
been excused — a Motion was made and carried, that the choice
of Constables be referred to the Adjournment
Gyles Harris Esqr, having in writing excused himself from
serving as an Assessor, it was Moved &
Voted, that the choice of an Assessor in the room of Mr. Harris
who has resigned, be referred over to the Adjournment of this
Meeting
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. Whether the Town will Lease
the North Battery for a long term " — was read whereupon it was
moved and Voted that a Committee be now appointed to consider
this Article and to confer with any Person disposed to purchase or
Lease the Estate, and to Report at the Adjournment what they
Apprehend will be for the Interest of the Town to be done
thereon — also
Voted, that Deacon Sharp
Mr. Ebenezer Dorr
Col°. Symms
[523.] Thomas Dawes Esqr.
Cap1. John Ballard
John Lucas Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Parker
Col°. Nathaniel Barber
William Storey Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid sent
The Article in the Warrent. Viz4.
To consider of the Petition of a Number of the Inhabitants,
that such Measures may be taken as may most effectually dis-
countenance an illicit & Careful trade with the Enemies of the
United States " — -was read, whereupon it was Moved, and Voted,
that a Committee be now appointed to take this Matter into con-
sideration, and Report at the Adjournment of this Meeting, what
they apprehend may be best to be done thereon — also
Voted, that the Committee of Correspondence & Inspection &
Safety, be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid.
Moved, that the foregoing Votes for choosing a Committee, to
consider the Article in the Warrant relative to an illicit trade, be
reconsidered, and that the consideration of this matter be referred
to the Adjournment
The Question being accordingly put — Passed in the Affirmative
On a Motion. Voted, that the Town Treasurer be directed to ac-
188 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
quaint the Justices, that a particular Account of the Towns pro-
portion of Fines, [524.] Received by them, will be expected
from them by the Adjournment
Moved & Voted, that the late Constables be desired to con-
tinue their good services in that Office, till other Constables are
chosen and Sworn into that Office ; and that the}- be desired to favor
the Town, with a List of such suitable Persons as they apprehend
would willingly Serve the Town as Constables the Year ensuing ;
at the Adjournment of this Meeting
It was moved that this Meeting be now Adjourned to Wednes-
day the 11th Day of April, 10. O'Clock & Before Noon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Wednesday the 11th. Day of April 10. O'Clock Forenoon —
Met according to Adjournment
Mr. Nathaniel Cobbit appeared and having desired the Town
to excuse him from serving as a Constable into which Office he
was lately chosen — he was accordingly excused
The Inhabitants were directed to bring in their Votes for
eleven Constables ; and the same being brought in and sorted, it
appeared that
Messrs, John Doake ----- excused
Josiah Simpson (sworn)
John Hewes excused
Alexander Me. Cloud. (sworn)
[525.] ElkanahHayden - - - - (sworn)
John Mc.Fadden - - - - excused
Benjamin Vezie ------ d°.
William Baxter
William Rogers (sworn)
William Ballard excused
Edward Jones d°.
were chose Constables for the ensuing Year
The Committee relative to Leasing the North Battery — Report
as follows Viz'.
That they have Attended the service, and having fully viewed
the North Battery are fully of Opinion that it will be for the
interest of the Town to sell the same for the Most it will fetch —
that to form some estimate of the value they are of Opinion, that
some suitable Persons, who are proper Judges should make an
estimate thereof to enable the Persons appointed to sell the same
to form some Judgement of the value, the Committee beg leave to
purpose to the Town whether it would not be best to give the pur-
chaser liberty to pay for the same in three payments — they have
conversed with Mr. Jones who seems inclined to purchase
GIBBINS SHARP p order
The foregoing Report having been read and considered, where-
upon the Question was put Viz'. — "Whether the same shall be
accepted — Passed in the Affermative
[526.] Voted, that the Selectmen be served with a Copy of
the foregoing Vote, and that they be and hereby are Authorised
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 189
and impowered to make Sale of said Estate in such manner as
they shall Judge most for the interest of the Town
sent
The Committee appointed to consider the expediency of
Leasing or making Sale of any part of the Towns Land on the
Neck — Reported, — and After considerable debate had thereon it
was moved and Voted, that the same be recommitted, and that the
Committee take into consideration the terms of the late Mr. Sutten
Byles Lease of part of those Lands, as also the best method to
di-fend the Neck from the incroachments of the Sea, and to
Report to the Town as soon as may be
The Town Treasurer laid before the Town a Letter from Mr.
Justice Gardner acquainting them with the State of the Fines he
had received from Mr. Justice Greenleaff
The Overseers of the Poor, having represented to the Town that
they were in such want of Money, that unless they are furnished
with some immediatley they must open the Almshouse Doors to
let the Poor out — whereupon
Voted, that Samuel Ruggles Esqr, be a Committee to enquire of
the Treasurer what immediate provision it is in his power to make
for the supply of the Almshouse
[527.] Adjourned to 3. O'Clock in the Afternoon
3 O. Clock Afternoon — met according to Adjournment
Mr. John Hews desired to be excused from serving as a Consta-
ble the present Year — and he was accordingly excused by the
Town
Mr. Benjamin Vezie desires to be excused from serving as a
Constable the present year — and he was accordingly excused
The Letter of Mr. Justice Greenleaf and the Account of Mr.
Justice Greenleaf laid before the Town by the Treasurer were
both read — whereupon
Voted, that said Letter & Account be referred to the Committee
appointed to make enquiry, and that said Committee appointed be
desired to call upon the Executor's of the Will of the late Justice
Pemberton deceased for the Towns proportion of Fines which had
been received by said Justice
The Committee appointed to enquire of the Town Treasurer
what Sums he could furnish for the supply of the Almshouse —
Reported, that having made the enquirey directed, they were in-
formed by the Treasurer, that he had not any Monies in his hands,
& therefore should not be Able to supply any Monies, except the
Collectors should bring in of what they have to Collect — that of
the five hundred thousand pounds granted [528. J in November
last, no more than fifty two thousand had as yet been received
by him into the Treasurey
The Gentlemen the Overseers of the Poor having represented
in a Most affecting Manner, the present suffering and almost
perishing circumstances of the Poor in the Almshouse, and the
Necessity of an immediate and Adequate supply of Money to
enable them to provide for their support and to prevent what
must Otherwise unadvoidably take place — Viz*. The opening the
190 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
doors of the Almshouse, that such of those unhappy Sufferers as
are able to walk out may from door to door seek such relief of
their compassionate and Christian Townsmen as might save them
from perishing ; and the Town having taken this representation
into their Serious consideration •
Voted, that a Committee be appointed in each Ward to raise
by Subscription of the several Inhabitants, a sum not exceed-
ing two thousand Pounds in Silver or Current Money equivilent
for the immediate supply of the Almshouse, and that the Chair-
man of the respective Wards, shall receive the Subscriptions and
return the Money subscribed together with the Subscription paper
to the Town Treasurer who shall furnish the respective Collectors
of Taxes with Attested Copies of the Same in order to their de-
ducting said Sums out of the [529.] Taxes of the respective
Lenders from the next tax that shall be issued, & that the head
of a Subscription Paper be drawn up by the Town Clerk, and
delivered to the Chairman of each Ward
Voted, that Mess". Silas Atkins
Nathaniel Barber Jur.
John R. Sigourney
be a Committee for Ward N°. 1 to answer the purpose afore-
said.
Mess™. Jedediah Parker
Thomas Coverly Vernon
Foster Cruft
a Committee for Ward - - N°. 2.
John Tudor Esqr.
Cap'. John Ballard
Jonathan Mountford Jr.
a Committee for Ward - - N°. 3.
Mess™. Daniel Parker
John Larking
Col°. Syms
a Committee for Ward - - - N°. 4.
Dr. William Clark
Cap*. John Pulling
Mr. Thomas Hitchburne
a Committee for Ward N°. 5.
Mess™. Joseph Hall
Samuel Barret
Mr. Stephen Amory
a Committee for Ward - - N°. 6.
Mess™. Timothy Newell
Richard Salter
Joseph Callender
[53O.] a Committee for Ward N°. 7.
Cap1. John Simpkins
Jeremiah Belknap
Samuel Eleot
a Committee for Ward ----- N°. 8.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 191
Mess". Elisha Sigorney
Luke Baker
Zephion Thayer
a Committee for Ward N°. 9.
Charles Miller Esqr.
Adam Colson
Stephen Hall
a Committee for Ward N°. 10
Cap4. Nehemiah Somes
Joseph Barrel
Thomas Tileston
a Committee for Ward N°. 11
Deacon Thomas Bayley
Deacon John Procter
Mr. William Marshall
a Committee for Ward N°. 12
The following is the Head of a Subscription Paper delivered to
the Chairman of each Ward — Viz*.
We the Subscribers most sensibly effected with the foregoing
Representation of the present condition of the aged decriped &
other suffering Poor in the Almshouse', some of whom have lived
well and contributed their share towards the Publick expence ;
and fully apprehensive [531.] not only of the many and great
inconveniences that must take place upon those Poor being thrown
upon the Charity of Private Families, but of the great reproach it
would Justly bring upon the Inhabitants of this Town, both as
Men and as Christians, for so cruel and unpresidented a Neglect
— do therefore hereby chearfully engage to pay the respective
Sums affixed to our Names, to the Chairmen of the Above Com-
mittee, upon the condition and for the purposes expressed in the
aforegoing Vote
The Committee appointed for inlisting this Towns proportion
of Men for the Continental Army — Acquainted the Town how
far they had proceeded in the service Assigned them
Moved that this Meeting be Adjourned to Fryday next being
the 13th of April— 3 O.Clock Afternoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Fryday April 13th. 3. O'Clock Afternoon met according to Ad-
journment
Mr. Benjamin Vezie and Mr. William Ballard, who have been
chosen Constables for the -ensuing Year, appeared, and having
desired the Town to excuse them from serving in that Office, they
were accordingly excused
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for two Constables, and the same having been brought in
and Sorted, it appeared that
[532.] Mess". John Hunt sworn
Rufus Bent - - d°.
were chose Constables for the ensuing Year
Mr. John Doak & Mr. Edward Jones, who have been chosen
192 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Constables for the Year, ensuing, having desired to be excused
from serving in that Office they
were accordingly excused from serving by the Town
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for two Constables, and the same being brought in and
sorted, it appeared that
Mess". Elijah Searl sworn
Spencer Walker - ... excused
were chosen Constables for the ensuing Year —
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for one Assessor, and the same having been brought in
and sorted, it appeared that
George B. Gedney
was chosen an Assessor for the ensuing Year —
Mr. John Hews chosen into the Office of Constable for the
Year ensuing having prayed that he might be excused from
serving in that Office, he was accordingly excused by the Town
The Town brought in their Votes as directed, for one Consta-
ble, and upon sorting them it appeared that Mr. Foster Cruft
was chosen a Constable for the ensuing Year ' excused
[533.] Mr. John McFadden chosen into the Office of Con-
stable, for the ensuing Year, having desired to be excused by
the Town from serving, he was accordingly excused
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for one Constable, and the same being brought in and sorted,
it appeared that
Mr. William Clough sworn
was chosen a Constable for the ensuing Year
Mr. Clough attended & desired to be excused serving as a
Constable & the Question was put, but did not obtain
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for one Constable, and the same having been brought in
and sorted, it appeared that
Mr. Samuel Smith
was chosen a Constable for the Year ensuing
On a Motion Voted, that
Mr. Joseph Russell
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
the Committee on Mr. Fraziers Petition make up the depreciation
on his debt according to Continental Scale of depreciation
On a Motion Voted, that all Matters and Things which remaine
unfinish'd at this Meeting be referred over to May Meeting
[534.] On a Motion — Voted, that the Thanks of the Town
be and hereb}" are given to John Brown Esqr. Moderator Pro.
Tern0, for the good services, in dispatching the business of the
Meeting
Then the Meeting; was dissolved
At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town of Boston
of Twenty One Years of Age and Upwards, qualified as the Con-
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 193
stitution prescribes and legally warned in publick Town Meeting,
Assembled at Fanuiel Hall on Monday the 2d. Day of April A.D.
1781-
Prayer was made by the Revd. Mr. Clark
Warrant for calling the Meeting read
Paragraphs of the Constitution or Form of Government, rela-
tive to the choice of Governor, Lievetinant Governor, and six
Senators for the County of Suffolk
It was then declared by the Selectmen that no Votes would be
received but such as are unfolded, and that they purpose that
the Poll shall be closed at half an hour past Twelve O'Clock
It was moved and Voted, that the Bells be rupg at a quarter
past 12. O'Clock
[535.] Persons Voted, for as Governor, with the number of
Votes for each Person — Viz1.
His Excellency John Hancock Esqr.
Five hundred & thirteen Votes
Persons Voted, for as Luiev1. Governor with the Number of
Votes for each Person — Viz*.
Votes
His Honer Thomas Gushing Esqr. - - 480
Houble. Samuel Adams Esqr. - - - 12
Honble. Azor Orne Esqr. ----- 2
Mr. Elias Parkman ------- 2
Mr. Nathaniel Tracy 1
Thomas Esqr. - - - - 1
Persons Voted, for as Senators for the County of Suffolk with
the Number of Votes for each Person Viz'.
Votes
Ellis Gray Esqr. 4
Houble. Jeremiah Powell Esqr. - 508
Samuel Adams Esqr. - - - - 479
John Pitts Esqr.' ------ 505
Jabez Fisher ------- 510
Increase Sumuer ------ 512
Samuel Niles --------20
Cotton Tuffts ------- 476
Mr. Leonard Jarvis ------ 4
Honble. Benjamin White - - - - 6
Honblc. Thomas Cushing Esqr. - - 9
John Rowe Esqr. -------11
Honble. Caleb Davis Esqr. - - - - 1
John Lowell Esqr. 2
Honble. William Phillips Esqr. - - - 1
[536.] Attested Copies of the Persons Voted for as Gover-
nor Leivetenant Governor and Senators for the County of Suffolk
were committed to the Secretary of this Commonwealth, and the
Inclosure sealed up in Town Meeting — Superscribed as follows —
Viz1.
194 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
For
John Avery Juur. Esqr.
Secretary of the Commonwealth
of Massachusetts
The Number of Votes of the Town of Boston for a Governor
Leivetanant Governor and Six Senators for the County of Suffolk,
Certified within and Sealed up in Town Meeting
Then the Meeting was dessolved
At a legal Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of
the Town of Boston atFaneiuel Hall April 27 — 1781 — 3. O'Clock
Afternoon
Warrant for calling ye. Meeting — read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Moderator, and the same being brought in and sorted,
it appeared that
John Tudor Esqr.
was chosen
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. "To consider and determine
upon the most expeditious [537.] measures for making up the
Towns defflciency of Men for the Continental Army, Occasioned
by the neglect or refusal of some Classes and Individuals in
Classes to procure them ; as also to give in to the Assessors the
Names of every such Delinquent that they may be Assessed as the
Law directs the full value of the same which shall be expended
in procuring their Men together with the 50 pC4. the Town have
Voted shall be laid upon the respective Delinquents in Addition
to the charge aforesaid" — was read — whereupon the Committee
for Inlisting Men were called upon to inform the Town what Classes
were defficient, who Reported — That 36 men the Committee
have receipted for from the Classes — 1 Man inlisted by a Class
for which the Committee did not Receipt — making 37 Men
from the Classes — 81 Inlisted by the Committee — the whole
118 Men — 63 Men wanting
65 Classes have paid £36 — & each have a Man Assigned. 60
ditto have paid in part £36 — 125 Classes have paid in full and
in part of £36 — 37 Classes have got their Men
Classes
themselves making -------------- 162
Classes Delinquent --------------19
181
37 from Classes
65 Assigned
102
16 Men to Assign'
On a Motion, Voted, that at the Adjournment of this Meeting,
the Committee for Inlisting Men be desired to make Report of
their doings, and [538.] The Names of all the Persons who are
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 195
Delinquents, with respect to paying their respective Assessments
for procuring the Men ; and the Town will then take immediate
Measures to procure the Men ; and return the Names of such
Delinquents to the Assessors
On a Motion — Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned it
shall be to next Monday Seven night — 3. O. Clock. Afternoon
On a Motion — Voted, that the Committee for Inlisting Men be
desired to make enquirey with respect to such Persons as are car-
rying out and Inlistiug Men for Other Towns, and to lay the proofs
with the Names of such Persons ; before the Town at the Adjourn-
ment of this Meeting, that they may be dealt with according to
their deserts
Adjournment to the 7th. Day of May next being Monday. 3.
OClock in the Afternoon
Monday the 7 Day of May. 3. O'Clock Afternoon — Met ac-
cording to Adjournment
The Committee for Inlisting the Towns proportion of Men for
the Continental Army, being called upon to Report their doings to
the Town — they accordingly Reported that they had inlisted —
One hundred and twenty 1 Men
The Chairman of the Committee appointed to make enquiry
what Sums remained due from the several Justice of the Peace
for the Towns proportion [539.] of the Fines by them received
from time to time
Reported, that they had discoursed with Mr. Justice Gardner
relative to those fines, and also had read his Letter to the Town
respecting those Fines and what he had paid in and done for the
Town, and upon the whole they think what he has paid and done,
may be looked upon as Satisfactory for what is past, but that a
regular Account ought to be kept by the Justices in future ; and
that they be duly called upon by the Town Treasurer, for the
Towns proportion of such Fines as they may have received —
the Letter from Mr. Justice Gardner to the Town, was again read
— And the Question being then put — Viz'. "Whether the same
shall be accepted as Satisfactory to the Town — Passed in the
Affermative
It was moved & Voted, that Mr. Justice Greenleaf be desired
lo lay before the Selectmen by next Wednesday all his returned
Warrants since the Town was opened, or an Account of the Towns
proportion of fines, making Oath that he Apprehends the same to
be the full amount of what has been received by him in that time
for the Towns proportion of Fines
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be directed to call upon the
several Justices for a particular Account of the Towns proportion
of Fines received by them, every Six Months, and also for the
Sums which those Fines may severally Amount to within that time,
and in case of refusal or neglect, to prosecute them for the Same,
Agreeable to the Law of this Commonwealth
[54O.] The Committee for Inlisting the Towns proportion of
Men for the Continental Army Reported the Names of Deliquents
Persons in the several Classes — Whereupon
196 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Voted, that said Committee be desired to Report at the Next
Town Meeting, what they shall apprehend will be the best method
for raising the Money necessary to procure the Men wanted for the
Delinquent Class and Individuals
On a Motion — Voted, that the further acting upon the Article
of the Warrant, be referred over to the General Town Meeting in
May
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be and hereby are given to
John Tudor Esqr. for his good services as Moderator of this
Meeting
Then the Meeting was dessolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned in publick
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 16th
Day of May Anno Domini 1781. 10 O'Clock Forenoon
Prayer made by the Revd. Mr. Wight
Warrant for calling the Meeting, read
That part of the Constitution or Form of Goverment which
relates to the choice of Representatives annually read
[541.] Sundry Laws ----- read
The Town having determined to choose seven Persons to repre-
sent them in the General Assembly of Massachusetts to be held at
the State House in Boston upon the last Wednesday of May Cur-
rent, agreeable to the Constitution or Form of Goverment for the
Massachusetts. — The Inhabitants were accordingly directed to
withdraw, and bring in their Votes for seven Representatives, and
then it was declared by the Selectmen, that no Votes will be re-
ceived, but such as are unfolded, and that they purpose the Poll
shall be closed at 12. O.Clock
The Votes being brought in for seven Representatives, the
number of the same were found to be four hundred thirty eight,
and upon sorting them it Appeared, that the following Persons
were chose — Viz'.
The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. - - - - 415
The Honble. Caleb Davis Esqr. 273
Thomas Daws Esqr. --------421
John Lowell Esqr. 421
Samuel A. Otis Esqr. - - - 260
Leonard Jarvis ---------- 237
Stephen Higginson Esqr. ------- 408
The choice of Representatives being over and declared by the
Selectmen, the Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring
in their Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting, in order that the
Town may proceed in transacting the Other Affairs mentioned in
the Warrant ; accordingly the Inhabitants withdrew and Brought
in their Votes, and upon sorting them it appeared that
[542.] John Brown Esqr.
was chosen
Mr. Brown not being in the Meeting, or to be found, it was
moved that a Moderator Pro. Tern0: be now chosen
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 197
The Inhabitants were accordingly directed to withdraw and
bring in their Votes for a Moderator Pro Tern0. — and the saine
being brought in and sorted, it appeared, that
John Scollay Esqr.
was chosen
Adjourned to 3. O'Clock in the Afternoon
3 O. Clock Afternoon met according to Adjournment
Mr. Brown the Moderator of the Meeting, & Mr. Scollay
chosen Moderator Pro. Tern0, being both Absent, it was moved,
& Voted that the Town proceed to the Choice of another
The Inhabitants were accordingly directed to withdraw and
bring in their Votes for a Moderator and the same having been
brought in and sorted, it appeared that
Samuel Allen Otis Esqr.
was chosen
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. " To consider whether
Instruction shall be given the Representatives [543.] that may
be chosen" — was read and after debate had thereon, it was
moved, and the Question accordingly put — Viz1. Whether the Town
will now Instruct the Representatives that have been chosen —
passed in the Negative
The Petition of the Collectors of Taxes, " that the Town will
reconsider the Vote lately passed respecting the Premium to be
allowed for collecting the Taxes ; and also determine with respect
to the Abatement of certain Taxes to them committed " was read
whereupon it was moved and carried that a Committee be ap-
pointed to consider said Petition, and Report at the Adjournment
of this Meeting
Voted, that Mr.Joseph Barrel
Mr. Herman Brimmer
Cap'. William Mackey excus'd
Mr. John White
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Moved, that an Application be made to the General Court
relative to the Old Monies — depreciating — after some debate it
was moved, and carried that the Matter subside for the present
Voted, that Mr. Samuel Hunt Master of the South Grammer
School be allowed and paid the Sum of Ninety Pounds in Gold &
Silver or current Money equivilent thereto at the time he shall
receive the same out of the Treasuery, for Six Months Salary as
Master of said School, the same to commence the 1st. of March last
[544.] Voted, that the Sum of Ninety Pounds be. allowed
and paid unto Mr. Aaron Smith Master of the North Grammer
School, in Gold & Silver or Current Money equivilent thereto at
the time he shall receive the same out of the Treasury, for Six
Months Salary as Master of said School, the same to commence
the first of March last
Voted, that the Sum of Seventy five pounds be allowed and
paid unto Mr. John Tileston Master of the North Writing School,
in Gold & Silver or current Money equivilent thereto at the
Time he shall receive the Same out of the Treasury for Six
198 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Months Salary as Master of said School, the same to commence
the first of March last — also
Voted, that the said Mr. Tileston have an Additional allowance
of Eighteen Pounds p Annum for House Rent or the Exchange as
aforesaid,
Voted, that the Sum of Seventy five Pounds be allowed and
paid unto Mr. James Carter Master of the Writing School in
Queen Street, in Gold & Silver or current Money equivilent thereto
at the time he shall receive the same out of the Treasurey for
Six Months Salary as Master of said School, the same to com-
mence the first of March last
[545.] Voted, that the Sum of Forty five Pounds be Allowed,
and paid unto Mr. William Croswell Usher of the South Grammer
School, in Gold & Silver or Current Money equivelent thereto at
the time he shall receive the same out of the Treasury for Six
Months Salary as Usher of eaid School the same to commence the
first of March last
The Committee for Inlisting the Towns proportion of Men for
the Continental Army — Reported there proceedings, Verbally —
Adjourned to Fryday next being the 22d Day of May Ins'. 3.
O'Clock
Fryday May 22d. 3. O. Clock in the Afternoon. Met according
to Adjournment
Voted, that the Selectmen be a Committee to Act upon the List
of Jurors
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for three Constables, — and the same being brought in and
sorted it Appeared that
Mess™. Benajah Davenport sworn
Samuel Sprague
Joshua Beal excused
were chosen Constables for the ensuing year
The Committee appointed to consider the Petition of the Col-
lectors of Taxes, having Attended that service are of Opinion
with respect to the [546.] Abatement of the Taxes, that the As-
sessors are the proper Judges, and therefore advise that they be
directed to Abate all those Persons their Taxes, that by Law are
exempted from payment and all those which cannot be Collected
which they are convinced were not lost by the Omission of the
Collectors, but if any are become bad by their carelessness or un-
due lenity, in that case the Committee are of Opinion that those
sums so lost be not abated, but that the Collectors make them
good — and the Selectmen be desired to liquidate and settle their
accounts as soon as may be
The Committee beg leave to sugest that Application be made
to the General Court by our Representatives that a law may be
made, expressly and explicitly to enalle the Assessors to tax such
Persons, as do not reside in Town but do their business here, altho
they are Taxed elsewhere, as nothing can appear more unreasona-
ble than the Determination of a late Court of Sessions, that a
Man shall pay his whole Taxes to a Town, where he does not ac-
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 199
quire a farthing, but only spend, the property which he acquires in
this Town while this Town reaps no benefit although the business
would otherwise be done by Persons residing here
The Committee are of Opinion that the Premium of two and
half p Cent allowed the Collectors for Collecting the Taxes, is
sufficient for that service and that they be enjoined to pay in from
time to time, to the Town Treasurer at the [547.] same time
they pay into the State Treasurer, the full proportion of the Towns
Taxes, and that the Treasurer of the Town make it a standing
Rule whenever the State Treasurer Issues his Executions, that he
does the same, without further Order from the Town
JOSEPH BAKRELL p Order
The foregoing Report having been read and considered, the
Question was put Viz'. — Whether the same shall be accepted
Passed in the Aff ermative — also
Voted, that the Town Clerk furnish the Assessors, the respec-
tive Collectors and the Town Treasurer with attested Copies of the
aforegoing Vote
The Committee appointed to liquidate the Account of Nathan
Frazier Esqr. for Monies lent the Town at several Times — Re-
port
That they find the Sum of £601 .. 19 .. 8 Silver Money due to
him as appears by the within State — that the Town Treasurer
take his Notes given to Mr. Frazier, and grant him a New Note
for the above sum payable in Silver Money or an equivilant
thereto in Current Money when paid — this new Note to bear this
date and carry Interest
JOSEPH RUSSELL JLNF
EZEKIEL PRICE
STEPHEN HIGGINSON
[*547.] The foregoing Report having been read and con-
sidered — the Question was put. Viz'. Whether the same shall be
accepted Passed in the Affermative
On a Motion — Voted, that a Committee be appointed to give
in an Estimate of the Sum necessary to be raised for defraying
the Expencies of the Current Year, and that they detei'miue upon
such Appropriations of the Same as they shall Judge to be expe-
dient
Voted, that Mr. Joseph Barrel
Mr. Edward Payne
Mr. Jonathan Mason
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
The Honble. William Phillips Esqr
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid — to Report at the Ad-
journment of this Meeting
Adjourned to next Fryday seven Night being the 1'. of June 3.
O'Clock in the Afternoon
Fryday the 1st. Day of June 3. OClock in the Afternoon —
Met according to Adjournment
Mr. Samuel Allyne Otis Esqr. the Moderator of this Meeting
not being able to give his attendance — The Inhabitants were
200 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
directed to withdraw and bring in Votes for a Moderator Pro
Tern0. — And the same having been brought in and sorted, it
appeared that
John Rowe Esqr.
was chosen Moderator of the Meeting
[548.] Mr. Benjamin Sumner, Mr. James Thompson, &
Mr. Thomas Bayley three of the Persons chosen Collectors of
Taxes for the ensuing Year, being in the Meeting, were called
upon to inform the Town, whether they accepted of the choice
made of them for Collectors of Taxes — when they answered in
the Affermative
The Committee appointed to give in an Estimate of the Sum
necessary to be raised for defraying the Expencies of the Current
year & to determine how it should be appropriated, being in the
Meeting were called upon for their Report — whereupon said
Committee Acquainted the Town, that they were not as yet able
to make Report, and desired further time for that purpose which
was granted them
On a Motion — Voted, that all Matters, and Things, which
remain unfinished at this Meeting be referred over to the next
General Town Meeting which may be called
Then the Meeting was dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualilied and legally warned in a pnblick
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Tuesday the 12th.
Day of June Anno Domini 1781. 3. O'Clock. Afternoon —
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
[549.] Precept for the choice of one Representative - - -
read
The Town having determined to choose a Person to Represent
them in the General Assembly of this Commonwealth in the room
of the Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr, chosen a Senator agreable to
a Precipt received for that purpose — The Inhabitants were
accordingly directed to withdraw and bring in their Votes, for one
Representative, and then it was declared by the Selectmen that no
Votes will be received by the Selectmen but such as are unfolded,
and from Persons who enter the Hall after they have Voted and
remain untill the Poll is closed which they propose shall be at
5 O'Clock.
The Votes being brought in for one Representative, the number
of the same were found to be ----- 394 and upon sort-
ing them it appeared that
John Rowe Eso/. 300
was chosen
The choice of Representative being over and declared by the
Selectmen the Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in
their Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting in Order that the
Town may proceed in transacting the Other Affairs mentioned in
the Warrant ; accordingly the Inhabitants withdrew and brought
in their Votes, and upon sorting them it appeared that
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 201
[55O.] The Honble. Benjamin Austin Esqr.
was chosen
The Committee appointed to consider what Monies are necessary
to defray the Charges of the Current Year, and in what manner the
same shall be appropriated — being ready to Report — the Ques-
tion was put Viz'. — Whether the same shall now be taken up and
Acted upon — passed in the Affermative
The Committee appointed to form an Estimate of the Sum neces-
sary for the Currant Expencies of the Year, and to appropriate
it Report
That they find the Sum expended last Year for the expences of
the Town amounted in Specie to about five thousand pounds law-
full Money, as appears by the Selectmen and Overseers draughts
which Sum the Committee are of Opinion will be sufficient for the
present Year
That they find the debts due from the Town as by List taken in
May 1780 — Amounted to about twelve thousand pounds lavvfull,
Money in Specie exclusive of Interest., but what proportion of
these debts are paid cannot be assertained uutill the Treasurer
liquidate and settle his Accounts, with the Collectors and Others,
which the Treasu. says is impossible to be done without a Suffi-
cient Assistant ; if the Tax now proposed is put into his hands
That the Sum of Nine Thousand Pounds be raised, the Tax to
be made in Gold or Silver, [551.] and paid in Specie or an
equivalent in the new Emissions at the rates affixed by the
Judges Scale of Depretiation at the time the Tax is essued, and
appropriated as follows — One third to discharge the Overseers
Draughts, one third to discharge what remains of the Selectmen
and Overseers Draughts for 1779 & 1780 — (if there is not suffi-
cient in the Treasury for the purpose) — the Residue with what
may remain of the two Other, appropriations towards, discharging
the Interest and part of the principal of the debts now due from
the Town, and that the Treasurer be enjoined to pay to each De-
partment (if applied for) in Just proportion and time as the Money
comes into his hands
That the Collectors settle their former Accounts immediately
or their Bonds put in Suite, and that they Collect the present Tax
as soon as may be ; and pay it into the Treasurer as soon as same
is Collected ; and if a New Scale of Depretiation is made, before
the whole Tax is collected, the Delinquents to pay according to
the New Scale ; and no depretiation to be allowed the Collec-
tors, but agreeably to the Scale at the time they make their
payments to the Treasurer
That the Treasurer be Directed to liquidate the debts and give
new Notes (to those that choose it) including the Interest for all
Sums prior to 1776 to be paid in Specie, and for all [552.]
Sums after that date, in Specie or an equivalent in Currency
That the Treasurer immediately open a New set of Books to be
kept in Specie, the New Notes when liquidated, numbered &
transferred into these Books, where the Tax now proposed, and
the Appropriations are to be entered
That the Monthly Draughts of the Selectmen and Overseers be
202 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
paid in course as they are drawn and no part of the second
Month untill the first (if applied for) are discharged ; except only
such Drafts from the Overseer's as may be in faviour of Persons
from the Country
That a List be taken by the Treasurer of those that are in want
of the Monies borrowed, and if they exceed the Sum appropriated
for the purpose, he proportion it in as equitable a Manner as may be
That Mr. Edward Payne
Col°, Josiah Waters
Mr. Herman Brimmer
be a Committee, and upon the publication of every new scale,
the Treasurer immediatlej' Apply to this Committee with an
Account of what Money he has on hand, and this Committee shall
examine the Money, and Affix what depredation there is upon it
and Charge it to the Town, but [553.] if the Treasurer shall
omit to apply as aforesaid he shall have no allowance for any
depretiation whatever.
That a Copy of this Report be delivered to each of this Com-
mittee who are desired to see the aforegoing regulations are put
in Execution at the Treasury
JOSEPH BARREL p Order
The foregoing Report having been taken up and considered,
paragraph by Paragraph — the Question was put — Viz1. — Whether
the same shall be accepted — Passed in the Affermative
Whereas great inconveniences and embarrassments have arisen
in the Treasurers Accounts from the Collectors of Taxes not set-
tling their Accounts and paying the Sums committed to them to
Collect in the course of the Year therefor Voted, that no Person
who has heretofore been a Collector of Taxes shall be hereafter
chosen into that Office untill he has settled his Accounts and paid
into the Treasurey the whole Sum committed to him to Collect —
his Commissions and any Abatement the Assessors may make him
being deducted
Moved, that a Committee be now appointed to agree with one
or more suitable Person or Persons to Assist Mr. Treasurer
Jeffries — and the Question being put — Passed in the Affermative
Voted, that Mr. Edward Payne
Col°. Josiah Waters
Mr. Herman Brimmer
Mr. Alexr. Hodsdon
be a Committee for that purpose
BOSTON TOWN KECORDS, 1781. 203
BOSTON TOWN RECOBDS.
[SEVENTH BOOK.]
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. — To consider the Petition of
Jonas Welch, that he may be permitted to take in a Small Strip
of the Street leading to the North Mills, for the purpose Mentioned
in said Petition — was read, and considered — Whereupon
Voted, that the Selectmen be and hereby are appointed and im-
powered to make Sale of the Land prayed for by Mr. Welch, on
such terms as they shall Judge proper
Voted, that the Meeting be Adjourned to Thursday the 21st. of
June. 3. O Clock in the Afternoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Thursday the 21st. Day of June 3. O'Clock Afternoon — Met
according to Adjournment
Benjamin Austin Esqr. in the Chair
Mr. Joshua Beal chosen one of the Constables, in March last,
having desired to be excused from searving in that Office, he was
accordingly excused by the Town
The Committee Appointed to consider & devise ways, to pre-
vent the incroachment of the Sea upon the Neck, as also to en-
quire into the terms of Mr. Sutton Byles's Lease from the Town
of Land on the Neck
[2.] Report, That they have examined into the conditions Mr.
Byles hired that part of the Neck he improved, and find he was to
pay one Shilling a Year for the Rent, which he paid to the Year
1774 and has a Receipt in full to that time — they also find there
was no penalty to the Lease, that he was only to re-deliver the
possession thereof when the Town required it
Your Committee cannot devise any ways for the Town to pre-
vent the incroachment of the Sea, but building a Stone Wall which
they apprehend the Town in their present circumstances are not
able to do, Unless they should think proper to make application to
the General Court for a Lottery to raise a sum of Money Sufficient
for that purpose
GIBBINS SHARP p Order
The foregoing Report having been read and considered, the
Question was put — Viz1. Whether the same shall be accepted —
Passed in the Affermative
204 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
The Committee for Inlistiug the Towns Quota for Men for the
Continental Army — Reported verbally
That they had still Money on hand for the purpose of hiring
Men having been greatly disappointed by the Obstructions thrown
in their way, by a Mr. Griffis & Others and that it is the Opinion
of the Committee that unless some Method can be devised to re-
move those difficulties [3.] there is but little probability the
Number to be raised by the Town will be compleated as there is
still wanting — 45 — or 46 Men, & they only expect to procure a
few Others — that they have now in hand of the Money Collected
of the several Classes, about Six hundred & fifty pounds Specie
The foregoing Report having been considered by the Town, it
was thereupon Moved and Voted, that the Committee be desired
to continue their good services untill tlie 30th Day of June next
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for two Constables, and the same being brought in and
sorted, it Appeared that
Mess™. George Thomas
John Cook
were chosen Constables for the Year ensuing
Moved and Voted, that all Matters, & things which remain un-
finished at this Meeting be referred to the next General Town
Meeting
On a Motion Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be and here-
by are given to Benjamin Austin Esqr. for his good services as
Moderator of this Meeting
Then the Meeting was dissolved
[4.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and Other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in pub-
lick Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the
28th. Day of June Anno Domini 1781 — 3. O. Clock P: M:
Warrant for calling the Meeting read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Moderator, and the Votes being brought in and
sorted, it appeared that
Mr. Thomas Walley
was chosen Moderator of this Meeting
The Article in the Warrant — Viz'.
" To consider what proper Measures may be immediately pur-
sued for carrying into full effect the Resolves of the General
Assembly of the 22d. of June Ins1, for procuring the Towns
proportion of the Beef, for the Continental Army " was read
The foregoing Vote of the General Court relative to the pro-
curing live Beef, was also read — and after the same had been
considered, it was moved and, Voted, that, a Committee be ap-
pointed to consider what may be the most speedy and effectual
Measures for procuring the Towns proportion of live Beef [5.]
for the Continental Arm}r agreeable to the Resolve of the General
Court passed the 22 Inst — is also to confer with any Person or
Persons, who may appear willing to furnish said Beef ; and to
devise ways and means for procuring the Money necessary for the
purpose aforesaid and Report thereon at the Adjournment
BOSTON Towx RECORDS, 1781. 205
Voted, that Allen Otis, Esqr.
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley
Charles Miller Esqr.
John Rowe Esq'.
be and hereby are appointed a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
The Article in the Warrant — Viz' — To consider and determine
upon the Most speedy and effectual Measures for raising the Towns
Quota of Men, according to a Resolution of the General Assembly
in their Sessions — was read — Whereupon, it was moved &
Voted, that the consideration of this Article be referred to the
Adjournment of this Meeting
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. " To consider what is neces-
sary to be done for the immediate Relief and support of the Poor in
the Alms house " — was read, and considered — whereupon a Mo-
tion was Made, that application be made to the Revd. Ministers
that a Collection be made for the purpose aforesaid in their Re-
spective Congregations — considerable Objections being made
to this proposal the Motion was withdrawn
[6.] And another Motion made, it was,
Voted, that the Gentelmen the Overseer's of the Poor be desired
to prepare a State of the destresses of the Poor in the Almshouse,
and furnish a Copy thereof to the Ministers of the Gospel of all
Denominations through the Town, requesting them to communi-
cate the same to their respective Congregations the next Lords
Day, and before the Congregations are dismissed, enforced with
such Arguments, as to them shall Appear, most conducive to en-
gage the Attention of the People to the same — also to inform
them that a Committee of the Town will wait on them for Sub-
scriptions in the Several Wards, on the next Tuesday the Amount
of which will be discounted out of the Tax now laid, and that the
Overseer's be furnished with attested Copies of this Vote for the
Minister's also,
Voted, that the Committee of the Several Wards for procuring
Subscriptions for the Almshouse, be desired to renew their appli-
cations, for that purpose, more particularly on Tuesday next, re-
ceiving the Subscriptions in Specie only, — And that the Town
Clerk furnish the respective Chairmen with a Copy of this Vote*
Adjourned to Thursday next being the 5th Day of July, 3.
O. Clock in the Afternoon
[7.] Thursday the 5th of July, 3. O'Clock — Afternoon, Met
according to Adjournment
The Committee appointed to consider of Ways and Means for
procuring the Towns quota of Beef for the Supply of the Army,
Agreeable to the Monthly Assessments by Order of the General
Court, having made the necessary enquiry, find, that Mr. Phelps
Superintendent of Purchases, will procure the whole quantity
wanted by the Town upon the most Advantageous Terms, expect-
ing only a small consideration for his trouble, and that lie will
engage that the Beef for the first Month shall not exceed forty
Shillings Specie p hundred
206 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Your Committee represent that Contracts might have been made
for two three or Six Months, but as the Season Advances they
think it probable Beef will become cheaper and preferable to
employ Mr. Phelps to make the Monthly purchases upon the lowest
possible terms, one great Advantage of this Mode, is Mr. Phelps
can give the Town a few Weeks to Collect the Money, besides
which no difficulty can arise as to the quantity none can be turn'd
in that Mr. Phelps can make an Objection to, himself being the
purchaser
The means of payment your Committee suppose can only be
dirived from a hard Money Tax, which they recommend should be
added to the tax now essuing — the whole Sum Necessary [8.]
to be raised is about £2400 — in Specie — Six hundred Pounds of
which to be collected in ten Days after the delivery of the Tickets,
and then paid immediately into the hands of the Treasurer or a
Committee for the special purpose ; said Money to be paid to Mr.
Phelps or his order to enable hhn to go on with his purchases ;
the other Eighteen hundred pounds to be Collected and paid into
the Hands of the Treasurer or said Committee on or before the
first Day of October next for the purpose all which is submitted
THOMAS WALLEY p Order
The foregoing Report having been read and considered — the
Question was put Viz'. — Whether the same shall be accepted —
Passed in the Affermative also
Voted, that the Sum of Twenty four hundred pounds in Specie
be immediately raised by a tax on the Polls and rateable Estates
of the Inhabitants of this Towns, Tax Six hundred pounds part
thereof to be paid into the Treasurey, within ten Days after the
delivery of the Tickets and the I'emaining Eighteen hundred
pounds to be Collected and paid into the Treasurey by the first
Day of October next, the whole of said Monies, to be Appropri-
ated for procuring the Town Quota of Beef for the Use of the Con-
tinental Army
[9.] Voted, that Allen Otis Esqr.
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley
Charles Miller Esqr.
John Rowe Esqr.
be and they hereby are appointed a Committee to Contract with
Oliver Phelps Esqr. for the live Beef wanted by the Town Agrea-
ble to the Report of the Committee relative to procuring Beef
On a Motion Voted, that the consideration of the Article in the
Warrant relative to raising Men be referred to the Adjournment
The Committee for raising the Towns proportion of Men for
the Continental Army. — -Reported verbally. That they had pro-
ceeded, so far in raising Men as that but forty One Men are now
wanting to compleat this Towns Quota — whereupon
Voted, that said Committee be desired to continue their good
services, till the further Orders of the Town
Moved and Voted, that, the Town Clerk Advertize the business
of the intended — Adjournment
Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to Monday next. 3.
O'Clock Afternoon
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 207
[1O.] July 9th. 3. O Clock Afternoon Met according to
Adjournment
The Assessors having been desired to give their Attendance at
this Meeting, they Attended accordingly
The Moderator then acquainted them that the Town would
wish to be informed how soon the Tax Bills for the present Tax,
were like to come out
The Assessors having taken some time to consider the Matter,
acquainted the Town, that it would not be much short of Six
Weeks
On a Motion Voted, that the Vote passed the 5th. of July
Instant, laying a Tax of Twenty four hundred pounds Specie be
reconsidered and set Aside — And that the Sum of Three thousand
Pounds in Specie be immediately raised by a Tax on the Polls and
rateable Estates of the Inhabitants of this Town, Seven hundred
and fifty Pounds part thereof to be paid into the Treasurey
within Ten Days After the Delivery of the Tickets, and the re-
maining twenty two hundred and fifty Pounds to be Collected and
paid into the Treasurey by the first Day of October next, the
whole of said Monies to be appropriated for procuring the Towns
Quota of Beef for the use of the Continental Army — And that no
Person [11.] shall be entitled to the five per cent Allowed by the
Vote Passed the 31st of March last who does not pay the first
part of the above Tax in the Time limitted in this Vote ; and that
this Sum be Added to the Tax now issuing, and that the same be
placed in distinct Columns on the Tickets to be delivered to the
Inhabitants
Whereas by a Report of a Committee appointed to form an
Estimate of the Sum necessary for the Expencies of the Current
Year, it was Voted June 12th. that the Sum of Nine Thousand
Pounds should be raised, the Tax to be made in Gold and Silver
and paid in Specie or an equivalent in Bills of the new Emission at
the rate of depreciation affixed by Judges Scale at the time of the
Tax being issued
And whereas by a late Act of the General Assembly of this
Commonwealth, the former Act impowering the Judges of the
Supreme Judicial Court to regulate the depreciation of the Paper
Currency is repealed, and no such Scale of Depreciation is likely
to take place — therefore
Voted, that the several paragraphs, in the said Report relating
to the Sum to be raised, and the Scale of depreciation by which
the same was to be paid, be and hereby are repealed and made
Void
[12.'] Voted, that the Sum of Twelve Thousand Pounds be
raised by a Tax on the Polls, and rateable Estates of the Inhab-
itants of this Town, for defreying the necessary Expences for the
Year ensuing — And that the Tax be made in Gold or Silver, and
paid in Specie or Bills of this State of the new Emission at the
rate of one and seven Eighths of the new Emission for one hard
Dollar, and that the same be appropriated as mentioned in the
Report of said Committee
The Committee Appointed to Contract with Mr. Phelps for live
208 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Beef Reported a Letter they bad wrote to him a Copy of which is
on file
Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned, it shall be to next
Monday being the 16th of July Ins': 3 O'Clock Afternoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned to that time
Monday the 16th. Day of July 3. O'Clock, Afternoon — Met
according to Adjournment
Mr. Treasurer Jeffries appeard, and desired the Town would
give him their Opinion with respect to these two Questions Viz1.
I8t. Is the Town Treasurer to receive of the Old Continental
Bills, of the Collectors for payment of Taxes yet remaining due of
the Two £250,000, [13.] — or £500,000 — Voted, to be raised
July and October 1780
2d. Is the Town Treasurer to receive of the Collectors any
Other than Bills of the New Emission for what is due from them
of the £9000 — Tax of said new Emission, Voted, December last
for payment of the 2d. Quota of Beef — After some debate the
Question was put. Viz*. — Whether it be the Sense of the Town
that the Town Treasurer should take the Act of the General
Assembly passed the 6. of July Inst for his rule of Conduct
relative to the Questions proposed — Passed in the Afferma-
tive
On a Motion Voted, that a Committee be now appointed, to
consider and Report what they shall Judge to be a suitable allow-
ance to the Town Treasurer for past services
Voted, that the Committee last appointed to consider a suitable
allowance to the School Masters Viz'.
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
Mr. John Lowell
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
On a Motion Voted, that the Town do now reconsider and set
aside the Vote passed giving the Town Treasurer their Opinion on
the Questions proposed by him at this Meeting
On a Motion, Voted, that all matters and things which remain
unfinished at this Meeting be referred for consideration to the next
Town Meeting
[14.] Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be and hereby are
given to Mr. Thomas Walley for his good services as Moderator
of this Meeting —
Then the Meeting was dessolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston, duly qualified, and legally warned in public k
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the 10
Day of August Anno Domini 1781 3. OClock. P.M.
Warrant for calling the Meeting read
The Inhabitants were desired to withdraw, and bring in their
Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting and the same being brought
in and sorted, it appeared, that
Thomas Dawes Esqr.
was chosen
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 20i)
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. " Then and there agreable to
the request of a Number of the Inhabitants, to devise some ef-
fectual and speedy method of raising Money for the payment of
the four Months Quota of Beef for the Continental Army, already
become due — was read, and after some debate had thereon — It
was moved, that the Assessors be desired to attend at this Meet-
ing, they accordingly Attended, and being Asked [15.] Whether
the Tax Books were ready to be delivered the Collectors of Taxes
— Answered — " That by the latter end of the next Week, the
Tax Books will be compleated "
It was then moved and Voted, that a Committee be now Ap-
pointed, to hire One hundred Pounds, which is now wanted to
discharge a draught of Mr. Phelps, for Beef purchased to that
Amount
It was moved and Voted, the foregoing Vote, be reconsidered,
and that the Collectors of Taxes be desired to apply immediately
to the Inhabitants, and urge their advancing their Beef Tax ii
order to discharge Mr. Phelps draught for the Beef he has pro
cured for the Town, for which they are by a Vote passed the ninth
Day of July last, to have five per cent deducted from their respec-
tive Taxes for the Sum so advanced — the Collectors to give
Receipts accordingly and the Money received by them to be paid
into the Town Treasury
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. " To consider what is neces-
sary to be done for procuring the Towns proportion of Clothing
for the Continental Army " — was read whereupon it was moved
and carried, that a Committee be now Appointed to take this
Article into consideration, and Report their Opinion thereon at
the Adjournment of this Meeting
[16.] Voted, that The Moderator ,
Samuel Allen Otis Esqr.
Samuel Barret Esqr.
Mr. Nathaniel Barret
Mr. Daniel Bell
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
The Article in the Warrant. Viz'. To determine what Allowances
shall be made the School Masters " — was read, whereupon
Voted, that Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
Mr. John Lowell be
a Committee before appointed to consider what may be adequate
Grants to the School Masters, be desired to make Report at the
Adjournment
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. — " To consider what steps
shall be taken for the better security of the Town in the Night
Season" was read, whereupon
Voted, that the consideration of this Matter be referred to the
Adjournment — reconsidered
The Moderator Col°. Daws having informed the Town " that he
had obtained a Return of the Men now in the Continental Army"
it was moved and Voted, that the Selectmen be desired to imploy
a Suitable Person to arange, said Returns, that it may clearly
appear, and be determined what proportion of Men this Town has
procured for the Continental Army
210 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80. '.
[17.] The Committee Appointed to consider and Report an
allowance to be made the Town Treasurer for his Services for the
Year 1780 — Reported the following Vote which was accepted l\v
the Town — Viz1.
Voted, that David Jeffries Esqr. be allowed in consideration of
extra services, and high prices of the Necessaries of Life Two
hundred and twenty pounds Specie for his Services as Treasurer
of this City [stc] for the Year 1780
It was moved & Voted, that the aforegoing Vote respecting the
"Watchmen be reconsidered, and that a Committee be now ap-
pointed to take this matter into consideration, and Report thereon
at the Adjournment of this Meeting
Voted, that the Gentelmen the Selectmen be a Committee for
the purpose aforesaid
It was moved, that when this Meeting is Adjourned it shall be
to Wednesday next being the 22d. of August Instant at 3. O'Clock
Afternoon then to meet at this place
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Wednesday August 22d 3. O Clock Afternoon — Met according
to Adjournment
[18.] Col°. Daws in the Chair — The Selectmen being a Com-
mittee to take up the Matter in the Notification relating to the
Town Watch do Report.
That the State of the Town Treasurey being at present such that
Money cannot be Obtained for paying the AVatchmen, therefore in
order to preserve the safety of the Town in the Night, that the
Captain of each Military Company be desired to select out of each
Military Ward two discreat Persons to do duty for one Night,
and so on every Night in rotation, that one third of the Company
so appointed take care of the South part of the Town, one third
the Middle part of the Town, and the Other third, the North part
of the Town, this to continue till the Treasury is in a better State
or untill the Town or the Selectmen shall otherwise Order p John
Scollay Chairman
The foregoing Report having been read & debate had thereon,
it was moved & Voted, that the further consideration of this mat-
ter subside for the present
The Towns Committee to devise means for procuring the Quota
of Shirts Shoes, &c for the Army — Report
That there is plenty of Material for that purpose in Town which
may probably be had upon a credet, And that some suitable Per-
son be appointed to purchase the Articles [19.] upon the longest
Credit and best terms possible ; and that a hard Money Tax be
laid to fulfill the Contracts as Soon as may be
SAMUEL OTIS
p Order
The foregoing Report having been read, and considered, the
Question was put Viz4 : — Whether the same shall be accepted —
Passed in the Affermative, whereupon, Voted, that
Samuel Allen Otis Esqr.
Mr. Nathaniel Barret
Mr. Daniel Bell
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 211
be a Committee to procure those Articles Agreeable to the fore-
going Reports, and when done to lay their Accounts before the
Selectmen in order to obtain their Draughts upon the Treasury,
for Payment — also
Voted, that the Sum of One Thousand Pounds, in Gold or
Silver be raised by a Tax upon the Polls & Rateable Estates of
the Inhabitants of this Town, and that the same be paid into the
Town Treasurey, and Appropriated for discharging the Accounts
of the Several Articles of Clothing procured as aforesaid
The Report of the Committee relative to the Town Watch again
taken up, and after considerable debate had thereon, it was
Moved &
Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to proceed in the Old way
of hiring suitable Persons to compose the Town Watch, the Town
not accepting the said Report
[2O.J The Committee Appointed to consider and Report what
Allowances should be made the School Masters are of Opinion
That considering the high prices of Provisions, Fuel &c — They
be allowed for the next three Months, commencing from the last
Grant made them, to the first Day of September next, double the
Sum in Specie granted them respectively in the Year 1774.
The foregoing Report having been read, and considered. —
Question was put — Viz' : Whether the same shall be accepted —
Passed in the Affermative
Voted, that all Matters & things which remain unfinished at
this Meeting be referred over to the next General Town Meeting,
then to be acted upon
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be and hereby are given to
Thomas Daws Esqr. for his good services as Moderator of this
Meeting
Then the Meeting was dessolved*
•At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other
Inhabitants of the Town of Boston in
publick Town Meeting Assembled at
Faneuil Hall being duly qualified
& legally warned; December [7.] 1781
Warrant for calling Meeting — read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting and the same being brought
in and sorted, it appeared that
The Honble : Samuel Adams Esqr. was chosen
The Article in the Warrant. Viz' : " To consider the Applica-
tion of a Sister Town relative to the Fishery " — was read —
whereupon Moved & Voted, that the Letter from the Town of
Marblehead, be read, & it was accordingly read
It was then Moved, that a time be now Assigned for the consid-
eration of said Letter from Marblehead, but another Motion being
made and seconded, that the consideration of this matter subside
for the present & that the Article relative to Grants be now taken
up — the Question was put, & passed in the Affermative
The Article in the Warrant Viz' : " To consider and arrant such
212 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Sums of Money, and in such manner as may be Judged needfull
for the payment of the School Masters, for the Relief, of the
Poor, and for defraying other necessary Charges ; the Tax laid in
March last, for said purposes having been collected almost wholy
in Monies of the New Emmission, now out of circulation" was
read — [22.] Whereupon it was moved & Voted, that a Committee
be now appointed to take this Article into consideration, and to
Report at the Adjournment of this Meeting : the Sum necessary to
be raised for the purpose aforesaid.
Voted, that Edward Payne Esqr.
Mr. Joseph Barrel
Mr. Jonathan Mason Senr.
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
William Phillips Esqr.
bo a Committee for said purpose, and that this Committee be In-
structed to lay before the Town a List of the necessary charges of
the Town
Moved & Voted, that the Letter from Marblehead, be again
read — and the Letter being read accordingly
Voted, that a Committee be now appointed to take the Subject
matter of this Letter into consideration, and Report at the
Adjournment
Voted, that the Honble : Samuel Adams Esqr.
Perez Morton Esqr.
Samuel A. Otis Esqr.
Isaac Smith Esqr.
Joseph Barrel Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
The Article in the Warrant. Viz'. — "To consider and Act upon
the Memorial of the Assessors, relative to Delinquent Classes and
Individuals of each of those Classes — was read [23.] And
Voted, that a Committee be now appointed to take the Memorial
of the Assessors and the Papers accompanying the same into con-
sideration, and Report at the Adjournment of this Meeting.
Voted, that Majr : Melville
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
Mr. Thomas W alley — excused
John Lucas Esqr.
to be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Moved and Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned, it shall
be to the Representatives Chamber — provided leave can be ob-
tained for that purpose
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned to Tuesday the
11th Day of December Instant. 3. O'Clock in the Afternoon, then
to meet at the Representatives Chamber
Tuesday the 11th Day of December 3. O Clock Afternoon, Met
according to Adjournment
The Committee appointed to take the following Article 4n the
Warrant into consideration — Viz': "To consider and grant such
Sums of Monies and in such manner as may be Judged needfull
for the payment of the School Masters, for the relief of the Poor,
and for defreying other necessary charges, the Tax laid in March
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 213
last for said purpose, having been Collected almost wholly in
Monies of the New Emission now out of Circulation " — Report
[24.] That having examined the Estimate on which they
formed their Report in May last, and finding the Tax granted at
that time, was to be paid in Bills of the New Emission which were
soon after out of Circulation, and consequently no part of the
Selectmens Draughts for the payment of Schoolmasters, and
Other Servants of the Town, nor those of the Overseer's for the
support of the Poor have been paid
The Committee are of Opinion that the Sum of Twelve Thou-
sand Pounds lawfull Monie, or £22,500 in Bills of the new Emis-
sion, was Voted in May last to be raised by a Tax, and one third
of said Sum to be appropriated to discharge part of the Debts due
from the Town for Monies borrowed, which Tax being to be paid
in Bills of the New Emission, and when received, the Whole will
remain useless in the Treasurey Unless the Creditors of the Town
will consent to receive their pay in those Bills at some rate that
may be agreed on by a Committee appointed for that purpose
The Committee therefore propose to the consideration of the
Town, whether they Will, at present raise a further Sum by a Tax
to be appropriated towards the payment of part of those Debts,
and let those Bills remain in the Treasury, untill Government
shall make provision for their Redemption — or whether they will
appoint a Committee to dispose of said Bills on the best terms
that can be Obtained
[25.] The foregoing Report having been read and ; after some
debate had thereon (it was moved that a Committee be now ap-
pointed agreeable to said Report, to dispose of the Bills, of the
New Emission Money, now in the Treasurey, for the most they can
obtain — and the Question being Accordingly put — Passed in
the Negative
It was then Moved, that the Monies above mentioned be dis-
posed of for the payment of the Towns Debts — the Question
being put — Passed in the Negative
It was also moved, that the first Vote negativing the disposing
of said Monies as Reported by the Committee be reconsidered,
and the Question being put — passed in the Negative
It was then
Voted, that the Sum of Six thousand Pounds, be
raised by a Tax on the Polls and ratable Estates of the Inhabitants
of this Town, for defreying the necessary Expences of the present
Year
On a Motion, Voted, that a Committee be now Appointed, to
waite upon his Excellency the Governor, to Acquaint him with the
Apprehensions of the Inhabitants, of dangers from a Vessels lay-
ing near the Town, said to have several thousand barrels of
Powder on board and praying his Excellency to take such Meas-
ures thereon, as he may apprehend the safety of the Town requires
— also
Voted, that the Gentlemen the Selectmen be a Committee for
that purpose
The Committee Appointed to take the Matter of the
214 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Letter from the Town of Marblehead relative to the Fisher}', into
consideration Reported a set of Instructions to be given the Gen-
telmen who Represent this Town in the General Court — as also a
sircular Letter to be forwarded by the Selectmen — And the Same
having been read — the Question was put. Viz'. Whether the
Town will now Instruct their Representatives relative to the Fish-
ery, as recommended by the Committee, which passed in the
Affermative
The Instructions Reported by the Committee being read and
considered, the Question was put — Whether said Instructions be
given to the Gentlemen who Represent the Town in the General
Court — passed in the Affermative — The Instructions are as
follows — Viz'.
Gentlemen,
The brilliant successes which have attended the Allied Arms
through the course of the proceeding Campaign, afords us the
most flattering prospects that our Enemies (though hitherto Obste-
nate to a degree of infatuation) will soon sue for Peace. — In the
conditions of that Peace, Your constituants feel themselves as
deeply and immediately interested as any Part of the Powers at
War ; but from an equal desire to promote the general welfare of
the Federal Republick, and the Safety & [27.] Happiness of this
Commonwealth, they think it their duty to Open to you their Sen-
tements on the importance of that Principle Branch of the Eastern
Trade, the Fishery, and the Necessaty of confirming a rite to it by
an express Article of the Treat}' of Peace The present De-
cayed State of a Number of our Maritime Towns contrasted with
their flourishing Situation previous to the present Contest, is a
striking proof, not only of the Advantages of the Fishery to the
commercial part of the Commonwealth, but the immediate ruin
that follows the want of it ; and if any of their Sister Towns can
boast more eligible circumstances, their riches are derived from a
source which is but temporary and will last only with the War
The stagnation of the Fishery furnished us with means, for Cr
using against the Enemy's property, and its to the astonishing
Successes that have hitherto Attended that kind of enterprize that
we owe the principle part of our present Trade — And though the
Merchants of some of our Seaports have lately made considerable
importations from the differant European Markets, yet 'tis from a
Source not more lasting than the Other, that they derive their
Ability to do it. The introduction of Foreign Armies an Navies
amougest us, has created great demands for our internal Supplies
those Supplies have furnished our Merchants with exchange, and
enabled them to make large remittances.
[28.] In Addition to which the Exportation of Gold and
Silver, during the Paper currency, has constituted no inconsid-
erable part of the Ballance of our Trade. — But if it is Obvious to
the Eye of every One, that these resources of our Wealth must
inevitably fail with the War — And in a Time of Peace, like all
Other Nations, we must depend only upon the Staple Commodities
of our own Country, for the Support of our commerce — These
commodities exclusive of the Fishery, will consist only of Lumber,
BOSTOX TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 215
and a small quantity of Inland Provisions. These Articles were
never supposed more than Sufficient to ballauce our West India
Importations ; for every European Article of consumption there-
fore (which was formerly paid for by our Fish and Oyl) the Trade
must be in debt. How fast that debt will accumilate, & how
long it will take to ruin the Trade, & impoverish the Country,
may be seen by the calculations of the Merchants of this Town in
the year 1769, by which it appears that upwards of Four hundred
Vessells were constantly employed in the Fishery, and the Annual
Profits of their Labour amounted to upwards of £160,000 Sterling ;
the whole of this was remitted to Great Britain for payment of the
Merchandizes, Annually imported from that Island : — It therefore
follows that without this Staple, we must either Content ourselves
to forego the Use of all European commodities, or become meer
carriers [29.] to the rest of the World ; the former from habit
is become impracticable ; and the latter is too Mortifying to sub-
mit to, and to inconsiderable in its prospects to be considered as
an Equivalent.
It is hence also easey to conceive (though we Apprehend need-
less to urge) of how vast an importance the preservation of this
Trade is to every Other part of the Commonwealth — The various
Mechanicks, necessarily employed in the building, rigging and
fitting out such a Number of Vessels, must without it be destitute
of Subsistance ; And the great quantities of provisions, expended
by our Fishermen, and the Timber made use of in Building the
Vessells, together with the Staves, Hoops, &c. made use of in
the exportation of the Fish & Oyl, will convince us, that the loss
of the Fishery must essentially affect our inland Brethren; And
without urging the more remote Argument, that the wealth &
Strength of every Nation depends on the prosperity, and increase
of its commerce it is evident, that the vast debt we have found
it necessary to contract in the present War, together with all the
publick Taxes we may hereafter be Oblidged to raise, on the fail-
ure of the Trade, or in proportion to its dimenution, must In-
evitably fall on the Landed Interest — And when they consider,
what a great Part of the Publick Taxes is paid by the Mercantile
Towns, and that the Country are in a great Measure enabled to
pay their proportion of them by vending their produce in the Sea
Ports, it is clear, that upon the depopulation of the Maritime, and
the additional [3O.] Weight of Taxes on the Country Towns,
which must follow the loss of our Trade, the Burthen will be to
them Intolerable — But the reasons need not be local For though
the Inhabitants of the other States are not so immediately af-
fected by the loss of the Fishery, yet we conceive it not less im-
portant to the whole Confederacey, than to us, in its political
Consequences. — Their future rank among the Nations of the
Earth will depend on their Naval Strength ; & if they mean to
be a Commercial People, it behoves them to be Able at all times
to protect their Commerce ; — The means by which they can pro-
cure that protection & Naval Strength, is to give incouragemeut
to that kind of Trade among themselves, which will best serve as
a Nursery for Seamen.
216 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
The importance of the Fishery in this view is obvious from the
valuable acquisitions made in the beginning of the War by our
Privateers, seven eighths of which where manned from this source :
— And though from this circumstance our Enemies, Open and
Secreat, have endeavoured to allarm the Other States of the Union
with an Idea, that the possession of the Fishery will give a
dangerous Supperiority of Strength -to the Eastern States, & so
have Attempted to disunit us in the claim of it ; yet we are con-
fident, their wicked designs must prove abortive, when 'tis con-
sidered that (if we were disposed to be a faithless and a treacherous
People) [31.] Our Necessities for the Use of the Southern com-
modities, and the Advantages we shall derive thereby a Circuitous
Trade from Their Ports to Foreign Markets, will forever make it
the Interest of Eastern States to preserve the Confederation per-
petual ; and will always be a Security to the Southern States
against the abuse of any Superiority of Strength which the Fishery
may be supposed to give us. — Should it be said, that the Right
we claim, is a Right Common to all Nations, and that we shall
therefore be intitled to the use of it, whether it is made an express
Article of Treaty or not : — We answer, that it can injure no
Power to confirm our Natural rights by express Acknowledge-
ment, if they honestly intend we shall enjoy them ; and if they
decline making this Acknowledgment, it is a just cause of sus-
picion that their intentions are not honest. — But we know the
Haughty Kingdom with whome we are at War ; and her annalls
furnish us with instances of her Sovereigns claiming by solemn
Acts the Empire of the Seas, and setting bounds to Other In-
de pendant Nations in the Use of that element, to which by the
Laws of Nature, they had an equal Title. And France herself
(now the greatest Naval Power upon Earth) has found it necessary
to be admitted by Treaty to the participation of that very right
for which we now contend. — And why should we imagine That
Great Britain will be more tender of the Natural rights of the
United States, than she has been of those of Other Nations, who
were [32.] Infinately better Able to resist her unlawfull Claims
upon the Ocean. — On the contrary, have we not every reason to
expect, that her Resentment, heightened by disappointment will
induse her to revenge her Self on the States, as soon as a Con-
venient Opportunity presents its self ; & unless this Rite is guar-
anteed to us by the Negotiating Powers she will undoubtedly
make this the Cause of her Quarrel : and the Instant she Attacks
on this Pretence, the whole Confederacy must be involved in a
War; — For the Fishery having been uninteruptedly enjoyed by
our Ancestors from Time immemorial & secured to them by
Charter, in an Ancient Priviledge, & one of those Liberties, for
the security of which, that firm league of Friendship was enter'd
into by the Thirteen States, so clearly Stipulated in the Third
Article of their Confederation. — It is therefore the duty, Seconded
by the clearest interest of every State within the Federal Union,
to have this right explicitly Acknowledged in the Treaty of Peace,
as the only means of securing to themselves a lasting & a Happy
one — From these Considerations, Gentleman, we instruct &
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. , 217
direct you, in the Approaching Sessions of the Legislature of this
Commonwealth to move for & to use your innuance to procure an
Application to Congress, that they would give positive Instructions
to their Commissioners for negotiating a Peace, to [33.] make
the right of the United States to the Fishery an Indispensible
Article of the Treaty.
The Town took into consideration the Circular Letter Reported
by the foregoing Committee, whereupon
Voted, that a Circular Letter be sent by the Town as recom-
mended by said Committee — also
Voted, that the Selectmen be requested to transmit the Letter
that shall be agreed on, to the Maritime Towns in this Common-
wealth also
Voted, that the Circular Letter Reported by the Committee
aforesaid be recommitted, said Committee to make Report again
at the Adjournment
The Committee to consider the Memorial of the Assessors,
relative to Deliuquint Classes Reported verbally — That in their
Judgement it would not be expedient for the Town to take any
measures respecting this Matter
The Question was put. Whether the foregoing Report be agree-
able to the Town — passed in the affermative.
A Letter from John Bradford Esqr. relative to the Men he had
procured for the Continental Army, and praying relief of the
Town, from part of the burden he has born in consequence of his
lill [sic] State of Health — was read — whereupon
[34.] Voted, that a Committee be appointed to consider said
Letter, and Report what they apprehend proper to be done thereon
Voted, that Col°. Davis [Daws?]
Caleb Davis Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley
be a Committee for that purpose
on a Motion Voted, that a Committee be appointed to prepare and
present a Complimentary Address to the Honblc: Major General
the Marquis De la Favette — in the Name of the Town
Voted, that the Honble : Samuel Adams Esqr. Modr.
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
Samuel Barret Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Adjourned to Fryday next 3. O'Clock Afternoon, to meet at
Representatives Chamber
Fryday the 14th Day of December 3 O'Clock. P.M: met Accord-
ing to Adjournment
The Committee appointed to prepare and present an Address to
the Honble: Major General the Marquis de la Favette to express
the most cordial esteem and affection of the Inhabitants for the
Marquis — Reported that they had presented to him the following
Address Viz1.
To the Honourable Major General the Marquis de la Fayette
[35.] Sir
We have the honor of waiting upon you in the Name & by the
218 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Directions of the Inhabitants of Boston in Town Meeting Assem-
bled in Faneiul Hall to express their Sentiments of Joy on your
safe return to this Metropolis
\Ve Assure you from them, that they Still bear in their Minds a
great-full Remembrance of the early disinterested and decided Part
you took with Americans while they were resisting a/one, the Hand
of British Tyrany
Your Sacrifice of dornestick Enjoyment to the Cause of God &
Humanity — Your generous Exertions in a foreign Country, in
Support of that Cause ; & the Success which has crowned those
exertions, so dangerous to your own Person, have in the Opinion
of the Town, added a Lustur to your exalted Rank, and give you a
Name and a Place in the first Lists of American Patriots & Heroes
It is with Regret that they have been made acquainted that
your Present Viset must be short : But though your Residence in
the Town, would have afforded them an unspeakable Satisfaction,
they will acquiesce in your Departure, from the Regard that they
owe to their Country ; being fully persuaded that your presence
in Europe at a critical Conjecture, will give you the Opportunity
of rendering most substantial Service to the joint interest of
France & the United States
[36.] The Inhabitants most fervently pray the Almighty God
to take you under His Protection — to guard you from Danger in
your Voyage, and to give you an happy Meeting with your Family,
your private Conections and your Native Country : Assuring
themselves that you will there be embraced with every Sentiment
of Gratitude and Affection, and receive the approbation of the
King your Sovereign — Boston December 14th 1781
To which the Marquis returned the following Answer
Gentlemen
The past Obligations I have been under to the In-
habitants of this Capital, and the New Favour they now confer
upon me, have impressed my Heart with the most lively Sense of
Attachment and Gratitude.
To have been Admitted among you from an early Period, in the
Defence of the Cause of Liberty will forever be the happiest Cir-
cumstance in my Life. But it becomes more particularly so, when
it is so kindly remembered by those who first began the Noble
Contest, and who have ever since been so conspicuous in its
Support
Nothing could induce me to leave this Continent even for a short
Period, before I had the Satisfaction to see my Friends in this
Town — Be pleased Gentelmen to Accept my most respectfull
Acknowledgements to your [37.] good Wishes. The Height of
my Ambition would be, and particularly to gratify those Affection-
ate Sentiments which forever devote me to this Metropolis.
LA FAYETTE
On a Motion, Voted, that the Town Clerk be directed to pub-
lish the aforegoing Address & Reply in the several News Papers
The Committee to prepare a Circular Letter Reported a draught
of one, which was considered paragraph by paragraph, and the
Question was then put Viz. — Whether this Letter shall be
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1781. 219
adopted by the Town as a Circular Letter to the Maritime Towns
in this Commonwealth — Passed in the Affermative
Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to procure printed Copies
of said Letters, & forward the same to the Maritime Towns,
Agreeable to a former Vote.
The following is the Circular Letter Reported by the Committee
— Viz1.
Gentlemen
The Inhabitants of the Town of Boston^ legally As-
sembled, have taken into consideration a matter which they con-
ceive all the other Maritime Towns, in this & the Neighbouring
States are equalley, and some of them more nearly interested then
thay. It is the Subject of the [38.] Fishery, and the great im-
portance of a Common right therein being secured to the United
States, whenever a Treaty of Peace shall be concluded. To flatter
ourselves with so happy a Prospect, so far as to neglect the neces-
sary preperations for another vigorous campaign, would indeed be
unbecoming the Wisdom of Americans ; & yet so important has
been the Success of the Allied Arms, the last year, that it would
Seem to be madness in extreem for Britain any longer to persist in
her unrighteous claims. But Wisdom has forsakin her Counsels
We ought to presume, that the Supreme Representatives of these
States will have an equal regard in so momentous a Crisis to the
rights of each individual. We would not Suggest the contrary.
But may it not be supposed, that Persons whose situation is
remote from the Fisher}', & who derive Advantages from it in its
more distant effects and not directly perceivable, are probably not
so attentive to its unspeakable importswice, as others who are im-
mediately concerned, & depend upon it as the only Source of their
Commerce and even their Subsistence, If this Should be the fact,
would not States so immediately interested in the Fishery as ours,
be justly criminated by the Others, if we should neglect Seasonably
to lay before them our own sense of the necessaty of an express
Article in a Treaty of Peace for its security ; Should we not be
wanting to ourselves [39.] in a most essential Point, and be
chargeable by all Posterity, with the Sacrifising our & their in-
valuable Rights, by unpardonable carelessness ; Such is the Senti-
ment of this Town. And though we would be far from obtruding
this or any Sentiment of Ours upon Others, we cannot but think
Ourselves justifiable in candidly recommending it to their Serious
deliberation
This Town have judged it necessary to instruct their- Represen-
tatives in the General Court on the Subject, the Instructions are
inclosed. Many other & cogent reasons might have been urged,
and will undoubtedly be made use of by you, if you Should think
it proper to take the matter into your Consideration. Should we be
so fortunate as to have your full concurrance in Opinion ^with us,
we assure ourselves that we shall be equally fortunate in the Aid
we shall receive from your concurrent exertions. -
In the Name and by Order of the Town of Boston in Meeting
legally Assembled December the 14th. 1781
WILLIAM COOPER Town Clerk
220 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
A Letter from Mr. Hunt Master of the South Grammer School,
relative to the pay he had received as Schoolmaster was read,
whereupon
Voted, that a Committee be Appointed to take this Letter into
consideration [4:0.] Also the sirurlar circumstances of the Other
School Masters, and to Report thereon at the Adjournment
Voted, that Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
John Lucas
be a Committee for that purpose
Moved & Voted, that an Additional Instruction be given the
Above named Committee ; to take into consideration the similar
Circumstances of other Servants of the Town who have Salaries
Assigned them
On a Motion Voted, that a Committee be appointed to take into
consideration the present arangement of the publick Schools in
the Town ; and to Report what further improvements — may be
made thereon, as soon as may be — also.
Voted, that the Honble. Samuel Adams EsqJ. (
John Lowell Esqr.
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
Samuel Barret Esqr.
Robert T. Payne Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
The Petition of the Assessors, " that the Town would Vote
them such pay, for their services as may appear fitt — was read —
whereupon
Voted, that Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
Nathaniel Appleton P2sqr.
John Lucas Esqr.
be a Committee to take this Petition into consideration [41.] and
Report thereon as soon as may be
The Committee relative to North Battery, Reported, the
Appraisement that had been made of said Estate in August last
pursuant to the order of the Town, whereupon
Voted, that the Selectmen be and hereby are directed & im-
powered to proceed in disposing of the Estate called North Bat-
tery, for such a Sum as may appear to them to be for the interest
of the Town, and if Money is not to be obtained, then upon a Credit
not exceeding twelve months with good security and Interest, and
the said Selectmen are im powered to give a Deed of Bargain &
Sale to the Purchaser or Purchasers in the Name of the Town.
Moved & Voted, that a Committee be appointed to consult with
Mr. Hodgden the Commissary of Military Stores as to the best
place to remove the Powder Ship to, and to request his doing it as
soon as may be — also
Voted, that John Brown Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
Honble: Caleb Davis Esqr.
Mr. Samuel Whitwell
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
BOSTON Towx RECORDS, 1781. 221
The Article iu the Warfaut Viz'.
"• To consider what steps Shall be taken to prevent damage to
the Common by the passing of Carriages " — was read whereupon
[42.] Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to make the
usual Repairs as Soon as may be
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. " To consider what Repairs
shall be given those Streets, where the Pavements are much dam-
aged"— was read — whereupon — Voted, that a Committee be
appointed to take these Articles into consideration, and to Report
at March Meeting and that this Committee be desired and im-
powered to make Application to the General Court, for their help
& Assistance in giving necessary Repairs to said Streets — also
Voted, that John Lowell Esqr.
Col°. Daws
Robert Treat Payne Esqr.
Col°. Hitchbourne Esq'.
Caleb Davis Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. '• To consider what further
Steps shall be taken relative to the Town Watch, was read —
whereupon
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be directed to answer the Se-
lecttnens Draughts for Such an amount of the Bills of the New
Emission Money, as may be sufficient for the Support of the
Watch, and that the Money thus draughted, be appropriated for
that purpose.
[43.] On a Motion Voted, that when this Meeting be
Adjourned, it shall be to Monday the 24th Instant 3. 0. Clock
P: M: to meet in this Place
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Monday December 24th. 3. O. 'Clock Afternoon — Met according
to Adjournment
Mr . Adams in the Chair
The Committee appointed to consider the request of the School-
masters, Assessors and other Servants of the Town at their
Meeting the 14th December 1781
Report, That the Treasurer settle with the Assessors, School-
masters, and also with the Other Servants of the Town who have
Salaries Assigned them by the Town, giving them credit for the
Specie value of their several payments made them according to the
Scale of Depreciation, and Report their several Balances to the
Town as Soon as may be
EBENEZER HANCOCK p Order
The foregoing Report having been read and considered ; on a
Motion made
Voted, that the Report of the Committee be reconsidered, and
that the Committee be instructed to enquire and Ascertain what
losses the Schoolmasters may have sustained by the depreciation
of the Paper Money [44.] comparing the Salaries received from
222 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
year to year, with the Grants made them in 1774 — the Committee
to have no respect to any Sums granted to the Schoolmasters on
Account of the high prices of the Necessaries of Life.
On a Motion, Voted, that
Mr. John Sweetser
Mr. John Lowell
be added to the Committee relative to School-Masters.
The Committee appointed to take into consideration the Repre-
sentation of John Bradford Esqr., Report as follows
Whereas it appears that John Bradford Esqr. was included in
Six Classes for furnishing Six Me.n for the Continental Army, for
three years, or during the War, and by his lill State of health was
necessarily prevented from attending so closely to the buissness as
otherwise he would in consequence of which he was a Second Time
Classed in nine Classes, and thereby has received great loss aud
damage, however he has now perfected the Business, and the Nine
Men are procured by him and gone forward. Therefore in order
to releive Mr. Bradford from part of the burden he has been in
consequence of his lill State of health aforesaid, aud as he has
fully complied with the Requisition, it is unanimously the Opinion
of the Committee that John Bradford Esqr. [45.] have a Grant
made him upon the Town Treasurey for the Sum of Sixty Pounds
Specie
THOMAS DAWS p Order
The foregoing Report having been read and considered. — the
Question was put Viz*. Whether the same shall be accepted —
Passed in the negative
Moved and Voted, that the Selectmen draw on the Town Treas-
urer for the Services of the Assessors in 1781 — at nine Shillings,
p Day, for every Day they shall attend
On a Motion, Voted, that a Committee be appointed to consider
of proper and suitable Allowances to the Publick Schoolmasters
for Six Months, commencing from the first of September last
Voted, that Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
John Lucas Esqr.
Mr. John Sweetser
Mr. John Lowell
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid.
On a Motion, Voted, that the Vote which passed at a late Town
Meeting respecting the pay of the Town Watch be reconsidered,
and that the Town Treasurer be and he hereby is Authorized
aud directed to make Sale of so much of the Bills of the New
Emission Money, now in his hands, or that may hereafter
come into his hands as in the Judgement of the Selectmen shall
be Sufficient for the payment of the Town Watch
[46.] Adjourned to Monday fortnight being the 7th of Janu-
ary next 3. O.'Clock Afternoon, then to meet at this Place
Monday the 7th. Day of January 1782. 3. O'Clock Afternoon,
met according to Adjournment
The Committee relative to the publick Schoolmasters Reported
BOSTON TOWN KECORDS, 1782. 223
in writing the Statings of what Mr. Hunt one of the Schoolmasters,
had received in Monies, or should receive in order to take the
Opinion of the Town — the same having been read, and debate
had thereon, it was — Voted, that the aforementioned Committee
Credet Mr. Samuel Hunt the Master of the South Grammer School
the Sum of Seven hundred and thirty-five Pounds, being from
June 1776 to September 1781 — and the Several Writing Masters
in that proportion — also
Voted, that said Committee make the Schoolmasters chargable
with the Specie value of the several Draughts made them by the
Selectmen, agreable to the Votes of the Town, at the time they
received payment for the Same, and that the Committee aforesaid
Liquidate Accounts and Report again to the Town
On a Motion Voted, that the Committee appointed by the Town
to liquidate Accounts in the Town Treasurer's Books have regard
to the [47.] Scale of Depreciation affixed by the General Court
of this Commonwealth
The Committee Appointed to consider of proper allowances for
the Schoolmaster's for Six Months commencing from the first of
September last Reported, whereupon
Voted, that the sum of One hundred Pounds be allowed and
paid unto Mr. Samuel Hunt for his Salary as Master of the South
Grammer School for Six Months
Voted, that the sum of One hundred Pounds be allowed and
paid unto Mr. Nathan Davis, for his Salary as Master of the North
Grammer School for Six Months, the same to be paid him Quar-
terly as it shall become due, and to commence from the first of
September last
Voted, that the sum of Ninety pounds be allowed and paid unto
Mr. James Carter, for his Salary as Master of the Writing School
in Queen Street for Six Months, the same to be paid him quar-
terly as it shall become due and to commence from the first of
September last
Voted, that the Sum of Ninety Pounds, be allowed and paid
unto Mr. James [sic] Tilestonfor his Salary as Master of the North
Writing School for six Months the same to be paid him Quarterly
as it shall become due [48.] and to commence from the first
of September last
Voted, that the Sum of Ninety Pounds be allowed and paid
unto Mr. John Vinal, for his Salary as Master of the Writing
School in the Common for Six Months the same to be paid him
Quarterly as it shall become due, and to commence from the first
of September last
Voted, that the Sum of Fifty Pounds be allowed and paid unto
Mr. William Croswell for his Sallary as Usher of the South Gram-
mar School for Six Months, the same to be paid him Quarterly as
it shall become due, and to commence from the first of September
last
Voted, that Mr. John Tileston Master of the North Writing
School be allowed for House Rent at the Rate of Forty Pounds p
Annum, the same to commence the first of September last
Voted, that Mr. Nathan Davis Master of the North Grammer
224 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
School be allowed for House Rent at the rate of Forty Pounds p
Annum the same to commence from the first of September last
Voted, that Mr. John Vmal Master of the Writing School in the
Common be allowed for House Rent at the Rate of Fort}r [49.]
Pounds p Annum the same to commence from the first of Septem-
ber last
Moved, that a Committee be now Appointed to raise by Sub-
scription three hundred Dollars, for the purpose of procuring two
Men for three years or during the War, to compleat this Towns
Quota of. Men for the Continental Army, the same to be paid into
the hands of Colonel Procter for said purpose, and that the Town
Treasurer give his Notes for the Sums borrowed, payable out of
the present Tax.
The Question being accordingly put — Passed in the Afferma-
tive
Voted, that Col°. Melville
Mr. Thomas Whalley
John Lucas Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
On a Motion, Voted, that the several Notes given by the Town
Treasurer to the Assessors for services by them rendered the
Town in Seventeen hundred and Eighty, shall carry lawfull
Interest from the date of the Selectmens Draughts
Moved and Voted, that all Matters and Things which shull
remaine unfinished at this Meeting be referred over to the next
General Town Meeting
Voted, that the thanks of the Town be and hereby are given to
the Honble : Samuel Adams Esqr. Moderator of this Meeting
Then the Meeting was dissolved
£5O.] At a Meeting of the Freeholder's and other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston duly qualified & legalh' warned in publick
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneiul Hall on Monday the 5th.
Day of March Anno Domini 1781 [1782]
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
John Brown Esq1'.
was chosen Moderator of this Meeting
The Committee appointed by the Town the 6th. of March last
to apply to a proper Gentleman to deliver an Oration the 5th. of
March Instant to perpetuate the Memory of the horred Massacre
perpetrated on the Evening of the 5th. of March 1770, by a Party
of Soldiers under the Command of Cap*. Thomas Preston of the
29th. Regiment
Reported — That having met several Times for the purpose
mentioned in the Town Vote, they have unanimously made Choice
of Mr. George Richards Minot to deliver an Oration on the 5th of
March Ins4, who had accordingly Accepted of that service
The foregoing Report having been made the Question was put
Viz1. Whether the same shall be accepted — Passed in the Afferm-
-ative
BOSTON TOWN KECOIIDS, 1782. 225
[51.] Upon the Motion, the Town took into consideration,
what would be the best time to have the Oration pronounced, as
also what place would be most suitable for the purpose where-
upon
Voted, that the Oration be delivered, at the Old Brick Meeting
House the Hall not being capacious enough to receive the Inhabi-
tants, that Attend upon the Occasion
Voted, that Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
Nathaniel Barber Esqr.
John Brown Esqr.
be a Committee to wait upon Mr. George Richards Minot, and
acquaint him, that it is the desire of the Town, that the Oration
may be delivered at the Old Brick Meeting House at half past 12.
O'Clock this Day as also to ask leave of the Committee of said
Church for the use of that Building
On a Motion Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to
order the severall Bells in the Town to be tolled from one
quarter of an Hour After nine O'Clock this Evening untill 10:
O Clock
Adjourned to the Old Brick Meeting House, half past 12.
O'Clock
The Town met at the Old Brick Meeting House half past 12.
O'Clock according to Adjournment
[52.] The Committee appointed to wait upon Mr. George
Richard Minot, to acquaint him with the Vote, of the Town, re-
specting the time and place for the delivery of an Oration —
Reported
That said Gentleman was ready to comply with the Order of
the Town
An Oration to commemorate the horred Massacre of the 5th. of
March 1770 — and to impress upon the Minds of the Citizens, the
ruineous tendency of standing Armies being placed in Free and
Populous Cities &c was delivered by Mr. George Richards Minot
to a large and crowded Assembly and received by them with great
Applause
On a Motion made, Voted, that
John Brown Esqr. Moderator
Nathan Frazier Esqr.
William Cooper Esqr.
John Lucas Esqr.
Josiah Waters Junr. Esqr.
John Scollay Esqr.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
be and hereby are Appointed a Committee to wait upon Mr.
George Richards Minot and in the Name of the Town to Thank
him for the spirited and elegant Oration delivered by him at
their request, in commemoration of the horred Massacre perpe-
trated on the Evening of the 5th. of March 1770 by a Party of
Soldiers of the 29th. Regiment under [53.] the Command of
Cap'. Thomas Preston, and to request of him a Copy thereof for
the Press
226 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
On a Motion made Voted, that
John Brown Esqr. — Moderator
Mr. George Richards Minot
Cap*. Elias Parkman
Thomas Daws Esqr.
Cap1. William Maekay ,
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to Apply to a proper
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the 5th. of March next, to
perpetuate the Memory of the horred Massacre, perpetrated on
the Evening of the 5th. of March 1770 by a Party of Soldiers of
the 29th Regiment under the Command of Cap*. Thomas Preston ;
and to impress upon our Minds the ruineous tendency of Standing
Armies being placed in free & Populous Cities in a time of peace ;
and the necessity of such noble exertions in all future times, as
the Inhabitants of the Town then made, whereby the designs of
the Conspierators Against the publick Peace, may be still
frustrated
a Petition of Mr. Robert Patterson "setting forth, " that he re-
ceived a wound in his Right Arm on the 5th. of March 1770. by a
Shot from Prestons Party, whereby he has entirely lost the use of
it ; and that since the death of Mr. Monk he is the only one of the
unhappy number then badly wounded, that survive," and therefore
praying the Charity of the Town — was read, whereupon
[54.] Voted, that a Collection be made at the close of this
Meeting, for the said unhappy Sufferer, and Boxes were placed at
each Door to receive the Collections
The Collection made for the said Mr. Patterson, amounted to
the Sum of
Then the Meeting was dessolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legall}7 warned, in publick Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneiul Hall on Monday the 11th. Day of
March Anno Domini 1782.
Prayer was made by the Revd. Dr. Cooper
Warrant for calling the Meeting read,
Sundry Laws enjoined to be read at this Meeting, were accord-
ingly, read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting, and the same being
brought in and sorted it appeared that
[55.] TheHonble. Samuel Adams Esqr. was chosen Moderator
William Cooper was chosen Town Clerk for the Year ensuing,
and took the Oath of Office for the f aithf ull discharge of his Duty
which Oath was Administred by Mr. Justice Price
The Town having determined by a Vote to choose seven Select-
men, the Inhabitants were then directed to withdraw and bring in
their Votes for that number, and the same being brought in and
sorted, it appeared that the following Gentlemen — Viz*.
John Scollay Esqr.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 227
Cap'. Gustavus Fellows
Harbottle Dorr Esqr.
Nathan Frazier Esqr.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Cap*. William Maekay
were chose Selectmen for the year ensuing unanimously
The inhabitants as directed by the Moderator, brought in their
Votes for twelve Overseers of the Poor and upon sorting them it
appeared, that
The Honble. William Phillips Esqr.
Isaac Smith Esqr.
Mr. Jonathan Mason
Cap'. Samuel Partridge
Mr. Samuel Whitwell
Mr. John White
[56.] Edward Proctor Esqr,
William Powell Esqr.
John Sweetser Esqr.
Samuel Barret Esqr.
Mr. Nicholas Bowes
Joseph Webb Esqr.
were chose Overseers of the Poor for the Year ensuing
David Jeffries Esqr. Town Treasurer having sent into the Town
in Writing his resignation of said Office — The Inhabitants were
directed to withdraw and bring in their Votes for a Town Treas-
urer, and the same being brought in and sorted, it appeared,
that
Mr. Peter Boyer
was chosen Town Treasurer for the ensuing Year
On a Motion, Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be and hereby
are given unto David Jeffries Esqr. for his good and faithfull ser-
vices as Treasurer of this Town, for Thirty One Years suc-
cessively
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes, for a County Treasurer,
and the Same being Sealed up in Town Meeting, were delivered to
Constable Smith, to be by him returned to the Court of General
Sessions of the Peace at their next Meeting
Moved & Voted, that the Inhabitants [57.] prepare a List of
Substantial Men for Constables to be brought in at the Adjourn-
ment of this Meeting in the Afternoon
Moved & Voted, that in consideration of the inclemency of the
Weather this Meeting when Adjourned, shall be to the Represen-
tatives Chamber
Adjourned to three O'Clock Afternoon to meet at the Repre-
sentatives Chamber
3. O'Clock P: M: Met according to Adjournment
On a Motion made the Question was put Viz1 : Whether
Collectors of Taxes shall be chose sepperate from Constables —
Passed in the Affermative
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Committee of Correspondence Inspection and Safety
228 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
— And the same being brought in and Sorted, it appeared,
that,
Nathaniel Barber Esqr.
Edward Proctor Esqr.
Cap1. John Pulling
Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
Cap1. Isaac Phillips
Samuel Ruggles Esqr.
Thomas Melvill Esqr.
Jonathan Mason Junr. Esqr. -
Edward Greene Esqr.
[58.] were chose a Committee of Correspondence &c for the
Year ensuing
The Town brought in their Votes for Sixteen Fire Wards, and
the same having been sorted, it appeared, that
John Scollay Esqr.
William Cooper Esqr.
Francis Shaw Esq*.
Edward Proctor Esqr.
Cap'. John Pulling
Caleb Davis Esqr.
Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Tileston
Andrew Syrns Esqr.
Cap1. Gustavus Fellows
Joseph Webb Esqr.
Cap*. John Ballard
Mr. John Winthrop
Mr. John Lowell
Major Thomas Melvill Esqr.
Jabez Hatch Esqr.
were chosen Fire Wards for the ensuing Year
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. " To consider the Request of
a great Number of the Inhabitants that they have the Use of Fan-
euiel Hall to be entertained with Mr. Templemans Exhibitions "
was read, and after longe debate, the Question was put. Viz1.
Whether it be the Mind of the Town that agreeable to the request
aforesaid Mr. Templeman may have the use of Faneuil Hall for
his Exhibitions — [59.] a doubt arising with respect to the
Number of hands in faviour of the request and against it ; a
Motion was made that the Petitioners have leave to withdraw
their Petition, which passed in the Affermative
A Motion for the choice of Collectors at this time did not obtain
The following Persons were chose Clerks of the Market for the
Year ensuing Viz1:
Mess": Narborah Frazier
Joseph Head
Nathaniel Jarvis
Daniel Biggelow
Samuel Conant Junr:
Thomas Carter
Benjamin Colman
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 229
Joseph Foster
Samuel Amory
Joseph Whiting
John "Welch Junr.
Moved & Voted, that when this Meeting be Adjourned, it be to
to Morrow Morning 10. O'Clock
Moved and carried, that to Morrow 11. O Clock be assigned
for the choice of Assessors
Moved & Voted, that the choice of Constables be Assigned over
to to Morrow 10. O Clock Forenoon
[6O.] Major Edward Carnes
Mr. William M°Neil
were chose Surveyors of Hemp for the Year ensuing
Mess": Benjamin Page
John Stimpson
Joseph Ayres
Jonathan Stodder
Edmund Ranger
William Moor
Abraham Howard
Clement Collins Jimr.
Samuel Fenno
William Todd
Uriah Norcross
James Rogers
Daniel Brown
Joseph Butler
John Stutson
Joseph Ballard
Abijah Crane
John Dyer
John Bell
John Arnold
Benjamin White
Joseph Pay son
Thomas Uran
John Presson
John Bulfinch
were chose Surveyors of Boards for the Year ensuing
Mess": Samuel Todd
William Clough
[61.] Jonathan Stodder
Joseph Daniels
Israel Loring
were chose Fence Viewers for the Year ensuing
Mess": Isaac Bird
Joseph Hayden
John Fenno Junr :
Samuel Bangs
Nathan Green
were chose Sealers of Leather for the Year ensuing
230 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Mr. Adam Colson
was chosen Informer of Deer for the Year ensuing
Mess18: Robert Hitehburne
John Owen
John McElroy
Manassah Masters
Thomas Barber
Joshua Pico
Samuel Hayley
Cap*. David Spear
Lemuel Gardner
John Lambert
Joseph Loring
Daniel Bell
were chose Cullers of Staves for the ensuing Year
Messrs: Jeremiah Russel
Henry Plimpton
Edward Jones
William Sharp
were chose Hogreeves for the year ensuing
[62.] Messrs: George Hamlin
Samuel Curtis
were chose Haywards for the ensuing Year
Ward
Mess1"8. Nathaniel Baker Junr. - ... No. 1
Cap1. John Lambert ------- 2
Joseph Prince ------- 3
John Cogswell ------- 4
Samuel Sumner ------ 5
Jeremiah Bumsted 6
Ephraim Copeland ----- 7
John Kennedy • 8
Zipheon Thayer 9
Joseph Shed 10
George Langley ------ n
Henry Bass 12
were chose Scavingers for the following or ensuing year
Messrs: John Skinner
Thomas Green
were chosen Assay Masters for the year ensuing
Voted, that Major Thomas Melville Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley
Honble: Caleb Davis Esqr.
Mr. Hermon Brimmer
Josiah Waters Esqr
Mr. John Lowell
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to Audit the Accompts
of Mr. Peter Boyer Treasurer, and also the Accompts of the
Overseers of the Poor; and the said Committee are impowered
when they shall Audit said Accompts, to allow such of the Over-
seers, as shall have [63.] Advanced Monies for the Relief of the
Poor ; Interest on all such Sums from the time so advanced, untill
they shall have Audited said Accompts ; and they are also desired
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 231
to Report from time to time a State of the Treasurer, respecting its
debts and credits and on any matters that they may think proper
and the Committee are also directed to examine the Draughts of
the Selectmen
The Selectmen
were chose Surveyers of the High Ways for the Year ensuing
Mess" : John White
John Sweetser Esqr.
John Lucas Esqr.
were chose Purchasers of Grain for the Year ensuing, and they
are desired and impowered to give all needfull directions to the
Keeper of the Granary, respecting the quantities of Grain to be
Said, and affixing the prices thereof from time to time as oc-
casion shall require ; and the said Committee are desired & directed
to cause all the Grain belonging to the Town to be ground at the
New Mills near the Mill Bridge
John Tudor Esqr.
William Kettle
Edward Tuckerman
Ebenezer Tory
Samuel Brown
were chose Surveyers of Wheat & Flour for the year ensuing
[64.] The Petition of Mr. Paul Farmer relative to his Taxes
was read, whereupon
Voted, that Nathanel Applet on Esqr.
Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
John Lucas Esqr. — excused
John Preston
be a Committee to take the Same into consideration, and Report
at the Adjournment
The Petition of Cap1. Amasa Davis, respecting Monies due to
him from the Town, was read, whereupon
Voted, that Nath1. Appleton Esqr.
Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
John Preston
be a Committee to consider the Petition and Report at the Ad-
journment
The Article in the Warrant. Viz4. " To consider what steps
shall be taken for settling with the Board of War their demands
on the Town for Small Arms &c " was read — whereupon
Voted, that Cap'. Isaac Phillips
Major Thomas Melville Esqr.
Mr. Elisha Sigorney
be a Committee to make enquirey relative to Small Arms which by
a Resolve of Court passed May 6. 1777 the Board of War were
directed, to deliver to the Selectmen, who were made accountable
for the Same ; also what is [65.] become of the Cartridges deliv-
ered the Military Officers of this Town, and make Report as soon
as may be
Moved and Voted, that a former Committee to purchase Small
Arms be called upon ; to Report at the Adjournment of this
Meeting
232 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Adjourned to Tuesday next being the 12th Instant 10. O'Clock
in the Forenoon, then to meet at the Representatives Chamber
Tuesday 3 O'Clock in the Afternoon met at the Representatives
Chamber
On a Motion made
Voted, that a Committee be now appointed to made enquiry,
whether the Gentlemen chosen Town Treasurer have usually given
Bond for the faithfnll discharge of their Trust
Voted, that Mr. Samuel Whitwell
Harbottle Dorr Esqr.
Cap1. William Mackay
be a Committee for this purpose to Report as Soon as may be
Moved and Voted, that there be one more added to the Sur-
veyers of Boards, and Things —
[66.] Mr. John Ballard Junr.
was chosen a Surveyor of Boards for the Year ensuing
This being the time Assigned for the choice of Constables, the
Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their Votes for
twelve Constables, and the same being brought in and sorted, it
appeared, that
Mr. Josiah Simpson
was chosen
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for eleven Constables for the Year ensuing — and the
Votes being brought in and sorted, it appeared, that only four
Constables were chosen — Viz1.
Messrs: Alexander McLeod
Samuel Whitney
Elisha Byles
Samuel Smith
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for seven Constables ; and the same being brought in and
sorted, it appeared, that only one was chosen Viz'.
Mr. John Gray — excused
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for six Constables ; and the same being brought in & sorted,
it Appeared that
[67. J Mess" : James Kirkwood ----- excused
Thomas Grant - excused
John Tuffts ------- sworn
John Magner ------ excused
John Dinsdell ------ excused
William Patten ------ sworn
were chose Constables for the Year ensuing
Moved & Voted, that one more Person be chosen into the Office
of Survey ers of Boards,
Mr. Henry Blaisdel
was chosen a Surveyer of Boards, and Shingles, for the Year
ensuing
Moved & Voted, that the Town will now proceed to the choice
of Seven Assessors
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 233
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for Seven Assessors, and the same being brought in &
Sorted, it appeared, that
Messrs. William Lowder
Moses May
John R. Sigorney
John Pulling
Earth0. Kneeland
William Fleet
Samuel Ruggles Esqr.
were chose Assessors for the ensuing Year
Cap1. Kirkwood chosen into the Office of a Constable for the
Year ensuing, attended and [68.] informed the Town, that
being bound to Sea, he desired he might be excused from serving
in that Office, and he was accordingly excused
Voted, that the Town will now come to the choice of a Con-
stable
Moved and carried that the foregoing Vote be reconsidered
Moved and Voted, that a Committee be now Appointed to take
into consideration what measures it will be proper for the Town
to take relative to the outstanding Taxes in the new Emission
Money ; and whether it will be necessary to raise any further Sum
for defreying the Expences of the present year, and the Sum they
Apprehend should be raised for that purpose
Voted, that John Brown Esqr.
Honble : Caleb Davis Esqr.
Mr. Joseph Barrel
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid to Report as soon as
may be
A Motion was made that the consideration of Salaries and
Grants be referred over to May Meeting — and the Question being
put — Passed in the Negative
It was then moved and Voted, that Grants be now made the
Several School Masters for their Salaries, for Six Months [69.]
commencing from the I4 : of March Instant
Voted, that the Sum of One hundred Pounds be allowed and
paid unto Mr. Samuel Hunt for his salary as Master of the South
Grammer School for Six Months, commencing from the first of
March Instant, the same to be paid him Quarterly as it shall be-
come due •
Voted, that the Sura of One hundred Pounds be allowed and
paid unto Mr. Nathan Davis for his Salary as Master of the North
Grammer School for Six Months commencing from the I1. March
Ins1 : the same to be paid him Quarterly as it shall become due
Adjourned to 3. O'Clock Afternoon
3. O'Clock Afternoon met according to Adjournment
Mr. John Green
was chosen a Clerk of the Market for the Year ensuing
The Selectmen Reported, on the Visitation of the Schools the
last year, and were Appointed Visitors for the Schools the present
Year —
234 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
The Committee Appointed to make enquiry whether it had been
usual for the [7O.] Town Treasurer to give Bond, for the faith-
full discharge of their trust in that Office
Reported, that the late Treasurer David Jeffries when first
chosen into that Office, give Bond to 'the Selectmen in 1750 in the
penal Sum of £10,000 -whereupon
Voted, that Mr. Peter Boyer who has been chosen Treasurer of
this Town give Bonds with Surities, in the Sum of two Thousand
Pounds for the f aithf ull discharge of his trust — also
Voted, that the said Treasurer be Notified of the choice the
Town had made of him for Treasurer, and desired to give his
Attendance at this Meeting
The Treasurer Attended accordingly and was informed that the
Town had made choice of him as their Treasurer, and had Voted,
that he must give Bond with Sureties in the Sum of two Thousand
Pounds, for his fidelity in that Office
Voted, that the Sum of Ninety five Pounds be allowed and paid
unto Mr. James Carter, for his Salary as Master of the Writing
School in Queen Street for six Months the same to be paid him
Quarterly as it shall become due and to commence from the first
of March Instant
[71.] Voted, that the Sum of Ninety five Pounds be allowed
and paid unto Mr. James [s/c] Tileston for his Salary as Master of
the North Writing School for Six Months the same to be paid
him Quarterly as it shall become due, and to commence from the
first of March Ins1 :
Voted, that the Sum of Ninety Five Pounds be allowed and
paid unto Mr. John Vinal for his Salary as Master of the Writing
School in the Common for six Months the same to be paid him
Quarterly as it shall become due, and to commence from the first
of March Ins1 :
Voted, that the Sum of Fifty Pounds be allowed and paid unto
Mr. William Croswell for his Salarj7 as Usher of the South Gram-
mer School for Six Months the same to be paid him Quarterly as
it shall become due, and to commence from the first of March
Instant
Voted, that Mr. John Tileston Master of the North Writing
School be allowed for six Months House Rent the Sum of
Twenty Pounds, the same to be paid him Quarterly as it shall be-
come due, and to commence from the first of March Instant
Voted, that Mr. Nathan Davis Master of the North Grammer
be allowed & paid for Six Months House Rent the Sum of twenty
Pounds, the same to be paid him Quarterly as it shall become due
and to commence from the first of March Instant
[72.] Voted, that Mr. John Vinall Master of the Writing
School in the Common be allowed and paid for six Mouths House
Rent the Sum of Twenty Pounds the same to be paid him Quar-
terly as it shall become due and to commence from the first of
March Instant
Moved and Voted, that one or more Persons be Added to the
Committee, appointed to consider whether they can be a new
arangement of the Publick Schools for the Advantage of the Town
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 235
Voted that the Honble : Oliver Wendell Esqr. be Added to said
Committee
Moved that the Minds of the Inhabitants be taken whether the
Town Treasurer shall be paid by a Commission on the Money,
passing through his hands — and the Question being accordingly
put — Passed in the Negative — whereupon
Voted, that Mr. Peter Boyer be allowed and paid the Sum df
One hundred Pounds for Six Months, services as Treasurer the
same to be paid him as it shall become due
The Committee appointed to consider what is proper to be done
with respect to what is due upon the Tax which was to be paid in
the New Emission Money at one & seven eights, Reported as their
Opinion — that no new Emission Money be received into the [73.]
Town Treasury, After the tenth Day of April next, and all that
may then be due shall be paid in Specie, so far as may be due on
Account of the Town Tax
That the Sum of One Thousand Pounds be Assessed on the In-
habitants and appropriated for the Repairs of the Streets, as the
Streets are in a ruineous Condition and daly growing worse and
the Town has been complained of and are liable to be prosecuted
by the Grand Jury for this omission
The foregoing Report having been read and considered, the
Question was put. Viz' — Whether the same shall be accepted —
Passed in the Affermative — also
Voted, that agreeable to the Above Report, the Sum of One
Thousand Pounds .in Silver & Gold be raised by a Tax upon the
Polls and rateable Estates of the Inhabitants of this Town ; and
that the same be paid into the Town Treasurey and appropriated
for the Repairs of the Streets in this Town now in a ruinous con-
dition •
Moved and Voted, that the Consideration of what Sum of
Money may be necessary to be Raised for the Expences of the
present year ensuing, be referred over to the Annual Town Meet-
ting in May Next
[74.] The Article in the Warrant Viz1. " To consider what
Measures shall be adopted for the immediate procuring the Towns
proportion of Men for the Continental Army, Agreeable to a late
Resolve of the General Court — was read — whereupon
Voted, that a Committee of thirty Six Persons be now appointed,
three of whom are to be chosen out of each Ward, who are to
Assist the Assessors in carrying the Resolve of the General Court
for raising this Towns proportion of Men for the Continental Army
into execution
Ward.
Voted, that Cap*. Thomas Adams 1
Cap'. William Brown
Mr. William Fowle
Cap1. Elias Parkman ___..- 2
Mr. Benjamin Burt
Mr. Alden Bass
Mr. John White- 3
Mr. Josiah Eliot
236 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Ward.
Mr. Grant Webster
Col°. Nathaniel Barber 4th.
Col°. Andrew Syms
Mr. Samuel Parkman
Jonathan Williams Esqr. - 5th.
Cap'. William Mackey
Cap1. Josiah Waters
Mr. Benjamin Jepson - - 6th.
Cap4. Samuel Barret
Mr. John Lowell excused
Cap1. William Bell
[75.] Cap*. Job Prince Senr. N°. 7.
Mr. Timothy Newell
Cap*. Isaac Phillips
Cap4. John Simpkins ------ . g
Cap4. John Langdou
Dr. John Loring
Isaac Sears Esqr. -_.y
Mr. Jonathan Mason
Mr. John Andrews
Col°. Joseph Webb 10
Mr. John Read
Cap4. Eleazer Johnson
Mr. Joseph Peirce --- n
Mr. John Tileston
Col°. Thomas Dawes excused
Cap4. Nehemiah Soames
Arnold Wells Esqr. 12
Mr. Ebenezer Dorr
Mr. Henry Bass
were appointed a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
also Voted, that
Col°. Josiah Waters .----- excused
John Lucas Esqr.
Major Thomas Melvill
Cap4. Alexander Hodgen ... - excused
Cap4. Sarson Belcher ------ excused
Mr. Edward Green ------ excused
Col°. Joseph Webb - declines
Col°. Edward Procter
be and hereby are appointed a Committee for Opening a Rendez-
vous for this Towns proportion of Men for the Continental
Army
[76.] All but Two of the Above Committee have declined
serving & been excused it was moved & Voted, that a Committee
be now chosen to apply to proper Persons, & Report a List suit-
able for filling up said Committee
Voted, that John Lucas Esqr.
Col°. Waters
Majr. Melville
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. , 237
Moved & Voted, 'that the Committee for raising Men have an
adequate & generious allowance
The Article in the Warrant relative to the South Writing School
having been again read
Voted, that a Committee be appointed to prepare an Estimate
of the Charge of building a Suitable School House
Voted, that Col°. Daws
Mr. Samuel Dyer
Mr. John Preston
be a Committee for said purpose
Voted, that the Assessors be rind hereby are empowered and
directed to set for such Abatements of Taxes as they shall Judge
reasonable ten Days next following the date and delivery of the
Tax Bills (Lords Days excepted) & no longer saving that they
be allowed to set two Days, the Last Week in Febuary for the
Abatements of the Taxes of Such Persons as had not an Oppor-
tunity of applying in the above limitted [77.] time, by reason of
their being out of the Commonwealth, or any other unavoidable
hindrance, at which time they are also allowed & impowered to
Abate the Taxes of such Persons as may have died Insolvent be-
fore the said time
Moved and Voted that the Committee Appointed to bring in an
Estimate of the Charge of Building a new School house be de-
sired to consider that of mending the Windows in Faneuil Hall,
and placing the Seats where they formerly Stood and to Re-
port at the Adjournment
Voted, that when this Meeting be Adjourn'd, it shall be to Fry-
day next. 3. O Clock in the Afternoon, then to Meet in this place
Fryclay March 15th. 1782. 3. O Clock Afternoon, — Met accord-
ing to Adjournment
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes, for Twelve Wardens, but before the Inhabitants had
brought in their Votes a Motion was made and carried, that the
choice of Wardens be deferred till the Meeting is fuller
Moved, that if the Collectors of Taxes for years past produce
to the Selectmen Certificates from the several Treasurers that they
have paid all the Taxes, into the Treasurey which had been com-
mitted to them to Collect of the Inhabitants except the two last
Taxes, they shall be eligable to a New choice
And the Question being accordingly put — Passed in the Af-
fermative
[78.] Moved and Voted, that the foregoing Vote be recon-
sidered, and that no Collector have any new Tax Books committed
to them, unless they produce Receipts from the several Treasurers,
for the discharge of all Taxes (except the last) and Such Sums
as in the Judgement of the Selectmen could not be recovered or
received
The Committee appointed to bring in an Estimate of the charge
of mending the Windows in Faneuil Hall & placing the Seats as
they formerly stood
Reported as their Opinion that the said Hall might be put in as
good Repair as it was formerly for the Sum of Two hundred
238 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
pounds, they also Laid before the Town an Estimate of the Charge
of the Several Articles of Repairs
John Howe Esqr. having in this Meeting generously offered to
the Town a Box of Glass for the Repairs of the Publick Buildings
Voted, unanimousley that this Donation be accepted, and that the
thanks of the Town be and hereby are given him for the Same
Moved and Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to take orders
for the Repairs of Fanuiel Hall, and putting the same in its former
State
The Committee appointed to prepare an Estimate of the Charge
of building a Suitable School House
[79.] Reported, that a School House suitable for the accom-
modation of the Youth of the South part of the Town, may be
built for the Sum of £300 — as also a Plan of such a Building,
whereupon it was moved, that the Report be accepted, and that
the Sum of Three hundred pounds be appropriated for the build-
ing a School House for the accommodation of the Youth of the
Southerly part of the Town and that the Selectmen be directed to
take Order thereon — and the Question being accordingly put —
Passed in the Affermative
Voted, that the Sum of Five hundred Pounds in Silver & Gold
be raised by a Tax upon the Polls and Rateable Estates of the
Inhabitants of this Town, & that the same be paid into the Town
Treasurey, and appropriated for the Repairs of Fanuiel Hall ; and
the Building a New School-house
The Inhabitants were directed by the Moderator to withdraw
and bring in their Votes for twelve Wardens ; but before the In-
habitants withdrew a Motion was made — that the Town first
determine whether they Will choose Wardens the present year or
not ; & the Question after longe Debate being accordingly put —
Passed in the Affermative
Moved & Voted, that the Inhabitants be desired to come pre-
pared with Votes for the choice of Wardens at the Adjournment
of this Meeting —
[8O.] The Committee appointed to lay before the Town a
List of suitable Persons to be Added to the Committee appointed
to hire Men for the Continental Army ; for the approbation of the
Town, Reported a List — whereupon,
Voted, that Col°. Josiah Waters Jur. Esqr.
John Lucas Esqr:
Cap1: Alexander Hodgsdon
be added to the two Gentelmen before chosen on said Committee
Col°. Waters having represented to the Town that the Commit-
tee for raising Men the last year had been greatley obstructed in
their duty and the Town much injured by several of the Inhabit-
ants engaging Men at a higher price than the Committee affixed,
and then carrying them out of Town and selling them to other
Towns ; and that it would be well if any thing could be done to
prevent so detremental a practice — whereuon
Voted, that Col°. Thomas Daws
Honble. Caleb Davis Esqr.
Joseph Barrel Esqr.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 239
be a Committee to make enquiry and Report what they Apprehend
may be done by the Town for preventing the like wild Practices
for the future
John Maguer one of the Persons chosen Constables for the en-
suing year came into Meeting, and prayed the Town to excuse
him from serving in that Office the present year — and the Ques-
tion being put — Passed in the Negative
[81.] Mr. John Dinsdel another of the Persons chosen into the
Office of a Constable, came into Meeting and desired the Town
that he might be excused from serving as a Constable the Present
year — and the Question being put — Passed in the Affermative
It was moved, that the choice of Collectors of Taxes be referred
to the Adjournment — and the Question being put — Passed in
the Affermative —
The Committee to whom Mr. Paul Farmers Petition was referred
— Report
That the Overseers of the Poor make such addition to his Salary
while Master of the Alrashouse for his faculty as may afford him
a suitable and decent support and also make him such allowances
as they may think reasonable on Account of the Taxes, that he
now owes or may have paid since he was in that Office
The foregoing Report as amended in this Meeting having been
read — the Question was put — Whether the same shall be ac-
cepted — Passed in the Affermative
Edward Jones chosen into the Office of Hogreeve for the present
year came into Meeting, and prayed that he might be excused
from serving as a Hogreeve the present year — and the Question
being put — Passed in the Affermative —
Moved & Voted, that the choice of another Hogreeve in the
Room of Mr. Jones be referred to the Adjournment
[852.] John G ray chosen into the Office of Constable for the
present year, came into Meeting and desired the Town to excuse
him from serving as a Constable the ensuing year, and he was
accordingly excused
Moved and Voted, that when this Meeting shall be Adjourned
it shall be to Thursday the 21'. Instant 3. O. 'Clock then to meet at
this place
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned to Thursday Next
then to meet in this place
Thursday the 21'. of March 1782. 3. O.Clock P: M: Met accord-
ing to Adjournment
Mr. Jacob Holland — sworn
was chosen a Hogreeve for the Year ensuing
The Committee to consider of Cap'. Amasa Davis's Petition,
and Report to the Town, having Reported accordingly the Town
came into the following Vote as recommended bv said Committee
Viz'.
Whereas the Selectmen for the year 1774. passed an account of
Cap'. Arnasa Davis Amounting to £53 : 1 1 : 3 and gave him a
draft on the Town Treasurer for the said Sum and the said Treas-
urer not being in Cash discounted the Amount of said Draught by
240 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
a Receipt dated November 8th. 1774. in favour of Mr. Edward
Hollyday then one of the Collectors — and whereas said Davis is
still possessed of said Receipt, and has [83.] never received any
Part thereof though Often requested payment of said Hollyday —
therefore — Resolved, that the Town Treasurer be and he hereby
is impowered and directed to deliver Cap1: Amasa Davis a Promis-
sary Note in behalf of the Town for the Amount of said Receipt,
together with Lawfull Interest thereon from the date thereof pro-
vided it shall appear that the same has not been paid, said Davis
delivering up to the Treasurer the Receipt aforesaid
Moved, and Voted, that the Committee appointed Auditors of
the Accompts of the Town Treasurer the last year be directed to
proceed in Auditing and settling the Accompts of the late Treas-
urer David Jeffries Esqr.
On a Motion, Voted, that
Edward Payne Esqr.
be added to the above Committee
Moved that the Selectmen be directed to call upon the Delinquent
Collectors or the Administrators of such of them as are deceased,
in order for a Settlement of their respective Accounts — Viz':
Abraham Savage, Edward Hollvdays Administrator, Benjamin
Henderson, Benjamin Cudworth — Administrator, Benjamin Gray
Administrator, and Josiah Torey, and in Case the Monies that
may appear due from them respectively are not paid within three
Months from this time the Town Treasurer is directed to put their
Bonds in Suit [84.] And the Question being accordingly put —
Passed in the Affermative
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for four Collectors of Taxes, and the same having been
brought in and sorted, it appeared that
Francis Shaw Esqr.
Mr. Benjamin Sumner Junr.
Mr. Thomas Bayley
Mr. James Thompson
•were chosen Collectors of Taxes for the Year ensuing
Voted, that two and one half p Cent, be and hereby is allowed
to the Persons that shall be chose Collectors of Taxes for the year
ensuing, on all such Sums of Money as they shall Collect, pro-
vided, that they shall conform to the Acts and Resolutions of the
General Assembly and the Votes of this Town ; which Premium
appears to be Just and equitable and an ample allowance to the
Collectors to encourage them to discharge their Duty with dili-
gence and fidelity ; provided also that each of said Collectors give
Bond with sufficient Sureties to the Satisfaction of the Selectmen,
for the faithfull discharge of their duty in said Office and comply-
ing with this Vote
[85.] Moved, and Voted, that the Collectors of Taxes be and
hereby are enjoined to pay into the County and Town Treasuries
in proportion as they shall pay into the State Treasury from time to
time
John Magner chosen a Constable for the year insuing came into
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 241
Meeting and desired that he might be excused from serving in
that Office for reasons offered the Town and he was accordingly
excused
The Committee appointed by the Town of Boston at their last
Meeting to consider what Steps are necessary to be taken touching
such Persons who may be so lost to the Welfare of said Town as to
Inlist Soldiers in said Town before the perticular Quota of said
Town of Boston can be raised — beg leave to report
That they have considered of every kind of discouragement
which the Town can lawfully give to Persons of the above discrip-
tion ; and recommend that all good Inhabitants of said Town
would be perticularly watchfull of any Persons of the aforesaid
discription and upon detecting any such Person in the Act of In-
listing Soldiers, in said Town for the use of other Towns before
the Quota of said Town is raised, to give the name of such Per-
son to the Selectmen of said Town in order that Measures may be
taken which will correct such an abuse of the Inhabitants — all
which is submitted
THOMAS DAWS p Order
The foregoing Report having been Read and considered the
Question was put — Whether the same shall be accepted — Passed
in the Affermative
[86.] This being the time Assigned for the choice of Wardens,
it was Moved, " that the Vote passed at the late Meeting for' now
coming to the choice of Wardens for the ensuing year be recon-
sidered, and that no Wardens be now chosen for the present year"
. . . before the Question was put it was Moved that the further
consideration of this Motion be referred to May Meeting, but this
Motion did not obtain — The other Motion was then considered,
and after large debate the Question was put — but the Vote being
scrupeled, a Poll was called for and the same being taken, it
appeared that the Motion was carried by a large Majorit}'
Voted, th'at when this Meeting is Adjourned, it shall be to Mon-
day the first of April next 3. O. Clock Afternoon, then to meet at
Faneiuel Hall •
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Monday April 1*. 1782. 3. O. Clock Afternoon Met at Faneiuel
Hall According to Adjournment
Honble: Samuel Adams Esqr. in the Chair
Thomas Grant chosen a Constable at the late Meeting, prayed
the Town that he might be excused from serving in that Office the
ensuing Year — and the Question being put — Passed in the Affer-
mative.
Mr. Samuel Brown chosen a Surveyer of Wheat, was excused
by the Town from serving in that Office the ensuing year
[87.] Mr. Edward V. Brown was chosen a Surveyer of Wheat
for the Year ensuing
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for Six Constables, and the same being brought in and
sorted, it appeared that
242 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Mess™ : William Rogers
John Ballard sworn
John McLane
Peter Geyer
Patrick Conner sworn
John Butterfield sworn
were chosen Constables for the ensuing Year
Moved that the Town Treasurer be and hereby is directed and
itnpowered to allow the Overseers of the Poor, Interest on all
Sums that has or may be advanced by them for the Support of the
Almshouse as has been allowed by the General Court of this Com-
monwealth on their consoladated Securities
The Overseers of the Poor for the Town are sorrey to be under
the disagreeable necessity of informing the Town of the unhappy
situation of the Poor in the Almshouse for want of the Necessa-
ries of Life — They have been without Bread ever since Last Tues-
day, untill Saturday when only two hundred of hard Bread was
procured for them, and this Day it will be all expended, and noth-
ing but Water for them to Drink ; owing to the want of Cash from
the State and Town [88.] Treasurers, where large Sums are due
that would enable them to procure those Necessaries, therefore
your Memorialists would implore the Assistance of the Town, that
the Collectors may be enjoined immediately to Collect the Taxes or
in Lieue thereof Grain and Other Necessaries of Life for their re-
lief— The Master of the Almshouse being greatley in debt
already, for Beef and other Necessaries, and by means of his not
having it in his Power to discharge the same is refused any further
Credit — the consequences of which must be obvious to all —
wherefor the Overseers in consequence of the trust reposed in them
relying on the Justice, wisdom and humanity of the Town, are
constrained to represent to them, the unhappy situation above
represented not doubting but something effectual will be adopted
by them, in behalf of the Overseers
WM : PHILLIPS Chairman
The foregoing Memorial having been read and duly considered
— the following Votes were passed by the Town Viz*.
Voted, that such Sum or Sums of Money of the New Emission
in the Treasurey, as the Overseers of the Poor may Judge neces-
sary for the support of the Almshouse, be sold for that purpose.
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be and he hereby is empowered
and directed upon application made to him by the Overseers of the
Poor, therefore, to make sale of so much of said [89.] Bills as
they shall Judge will be Sufficient for that purpose, upon the best
terms they can
Moved, that a Tax of 'One Thousand Pounds be laid upon the
Inhabitants for the use of the Almshouse, but the Motion after
some debate, was withdrawn
To the Inhabitants of Boston in legal Town Meeting Assembled
Samuel Ruggles in behalf of the Estate of Edward Hollyday one
of the late Collectors of Taxes for said Town Humbly sheweth
That in December 1773 the Sum of £2449 : 1 : 8 — was commit-
ted to said Edward Hollyday to Collect, the Tax bills were deliv-
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 243
ered by him in January 1774. between which time and the 19th. of
April 1775 — (but little more than a year, he had Collected and
paid to the Severall Collectors Treasurers more than three quarters
of the whole Sum, notwithstanding the imbarrasments of the
Town, occasioned b}' the Port Bill &c — immediately after said
19th of April the Inhabitants were thrown into the utmost confu-
sion, the Injuries they suffered and the losses they sustained are
too well known, and (by many) too keenly felt Need no recital. —
they returned at different times in the Year 1776. and but few of
them who owed the said Collector were at that time able to pay
— Many still remain in reduced circumstances, some have died
and some Joined the Enemy as will full}' Appear, by examining
the List herewith exhibited to the Town —
Your Memoralist prays the Town to take the above [9O.] State
of facts, into their wise and serious consideration and previous to
suing the Bond make such allowances, or abatements, as the Town
may think reasonable SAMUEL RUGGLES
The foregoing Memorial having been read and considered by the
Town — It was moved and carried that this Memorial with the
Papers accompanying the same be committed
Voted, that Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
Joseph Barrel Esqr.
Samuel Barret Esqr. (excused)
Edward Payne Esqr.
be a Committee to take up this matter & Report as soon as may
be, what they Judge ought to be done thereon — also
Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to suspend putting the
late Collector Hollydays Bonds in Suit untill the further Orders of
the Town
On a Motion made Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to lay
before the Committee Appointed for Auditing the Town Treasurers
Accompts, such Sums as within their knowledge ought to be paid
into the Town Treasurey
After some debate whether this Meeting should be dissolved or
Adjourned, it was Voted, as the sense of the Town that their
should be another Adjournment — and the Meeting was accord-
ingly Adjourned, to Tuesday seven night 3. O. Clock P: M:
[91.] Tuesday the 9th. Day of April 1782. 3. O. Clock After-
noon — Met according to Adjournment —
Honblc: Samuel Adams Esqr. in the Chair
The Persons chosen Constables at the late Meeting having been
duly notified of the choice of the Town had made of them as Con-
stables for the Year ensuing, and also required to qualify them-
selves as the Law directs — Constable Simpson acquainted the
Inhabitants that said Persons were ready and intended taking the
Oath of Office
The Committee appointed for Inlisting this Towns proportion of
Men for the Continental Army — Reported to the Town — That
they had Inlisted ten Men for the service — that they had received
the full Sura of £45 ; for 60 Classes — that 7 Classes have
paid upwards of £40 — one Class £39 — and one Class £15 —
244 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
making in the whole Sixty nine Classes which have paid into the
Committee
That they have met with many interruptions, through the man-
agement of such as wanted to procure and sell Men to the Towns in
the Country ; but were now in a fair Way of making such discov-
eries as will put a stop to such practises — and hope that by per-
severance and an Attention to the buisiness laid upon them, they
may be able to Answer the intentions of the Town in their ap-
pointment — that in their Opinion the raising the Bounty now
given, will not have so good an effect, as continuing already to
the Sum they have hitherto [92.] offered to such as would
Inlist, and that those who incline to enter into the service when
they hear that this Meeting is dissolved, it will quicken the Inlist-
ments — whereupon
Voted, that this Report be accepted and that the Committee be
desired to continue their good services in procuring this Towns
proportion of Men for the Continental service
The Committee appointed for settling Accompts with the Board
of War, being called upon to make Report ; Acquainted the Town
that they were not as yet able to make Report —
Moved and Voted, that Col°. Edward Proctor be requested to
give out Orders to the respective Captains of the Companies of
Militia in the Regiment under his Command, to make return of the
Small Armes, received of the Board of War, for the use of such
Men in his Regiment as were destitute of Arms, and not able to
purchase for themselves, informing in whose hands they were
placed, or what had become of them ; as also of the Cartridges
delivered out : the same to be laid before the Selectmen immedi-
ately — and that Col°. Proctor be served with a Copy of this Vote
by the Town Clerk
Moved and Voted, that all things which remain unfinished at
this Meeting be referred over to the general Town Meeting in May
next, then to be considered and acted upon —
[93.] Moved and Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be
and hereby are given to the Houble : Samuel Adams P^sqr. the Mod-
erator of this Meeting, for dispatching the Buisiness thereof
Then the Meeting was dissolved
At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town of Boston of
Twenty one years of Age & upwards, qualified as the Committee
[sic] prescribes, and legally warned in publick Town Meeting
Assembled at Fanuiel Hall on Monday the 1st Day of April Anno
Domini 1782 —
Prayer was made by the Revd. Mr. Howard
Warrant for calling the Meeting read —
Paragraphs of the Constitution or form of Government, relative
to the choice of Governor Lievetennant Governor and Six Sena-
tors for the County of Suffolk was also read.
On a Motion Voted, That the Town will now come to the choice
of a Governor, Lievetennant Governor, and Six Senators, for the
County of Suffolk.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 245
It was then declared by the Selectmen that no Votes will be re-
ceived but such as are unfolded, and that they propose the Poll
shall be closed at One O Clock
[94.] It was then moved and Voted that the Bells in the
Town be set a ringing at half past 12. O'Clock
Persons Voted, for as Governor with the number of Votes for
each Person — Viz'.
His Excellency John Hancock Esqr.
Five hundred & ninety eight Votes
Persons Voted, for as Governor brought over
Votes,
Honble : James Bowdoin Esqr. ---------- 7
Honble : Benjamin Lincoln Esqr. --- 1
Honblc : Samuel Adams Esqr. 1
Persons Voted, for as Lievetenant Governor with the Number
of Votes for each Person Viz' : —
Votes
His Honor Thomas Gushing Esqr. ------- 585
Honourable Azor Orne Esqr. --------- 5
Honble : James Warren Esqr. 4
Nathaniel Tracy Esqr. ----------- 2
Cap'. Elias Parkman ------------ 1
Persons Voted for as Senators for the County of Suffolk, with
the Number of Votes for each Persons Viz*.
Votes
Honbble : Samuel Adams Esqr. - 580
Honble : John Pitts Esqr. 586
Honble : Jeremiah Powell Esqr. 592
Honble : Jabez Fisher Esqr. 592
Houble : Samuel Nyles Esqr. - 355
Honble : Increase Sumner Esqr. 589
Honble : Cotton Tufts Esqr. 217
Honble : James Bowdoin Esqr. -------- l
[95.] Honble : Benjamin Austin Esqr. -------- 1
Honble : William Phillips Esqr. - 4
John Lowell Esqr. 1
Ebenezer Storer Esqr. ----------- 1
Honble : Caleb Davis Esqr. 1
Mr. Seth Sumner --' 1
Attested Copies of the Persons Voted for as Governor Lievetenant
Governor & Senators for the County of Suffolk, were committed
to the Secretary of this Commonwealth, and the Inclosure sealed
up in Town Meeting Superscribed as follows — Viz'.
For
John Avery Junr. Esqr.
Secretary of the Commonwealth
of Massachusetts
The number of Votes of the Town of Boston for a Governor
Lievetenant Governor and Six Senators for the County of Suffolk,
Certified within and sealed up in Town Meeting
Then the Meeting was dissolved
246 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in publick
Town Meeting Assembled on Tuesday, the 14th. Day of May
Anno Domini — 10 O. 'Clock — Forenoon
Prayer made by the Revd. Mr. Lothrop
Warrant for calling the Meeting read
[96.] That part of the Constitution or Form of Government
which relates to the choice of Representatives read
Sundry Laws to be read at the May Meeting were accordingly
read ---------
The Town having determined to choose Seven Persons to Rep-
resent them in the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts to be held at the State House in Boston upon the
last Wednesday of May Current, Agreeable to the Constitution or
Frame of Government for the Massachusetts — The Inhabitants
were accordingl}' directed to withdraw and bring in their Votes for
Seven Representatives, and then it was declared by the Select-
men that no Votes will be received, but such as are unfolded, and
that they propose the Poll shall be closed at twelve O. Clock
The Votes being brought in for Seven Representatives, the
Number of the same were found to be three hundred and thirty-
five, but one of the Persons, Voted for, having three hundred and
fifty Votes, which difference might have arisen from some of the
Votes having been placed to Mr. Lowell which should have been
put to Mr. Levels, or to the Votes which had been given in, and
received seperately, and not on one piece of Paper, which has been
Often practised, and in such case prevents the Number of Voters
from being exactly assertained — the Selectmen therefore accord-
ing to their usual practise, declared the Number of Votes, to be
three hundred & fifty [97.] and that the following Gentlemen
were chose by a Majority of said Votes — Viz1.
Votes.
Thomas Dawes Esqr. 332
John Lowell — Esqr. 350
Honble : James Lovell Esqr. - - 251
Stephen Higginson Esqr. - - - - 324
Leonard Jarvis Esqr. 204
John Rowe — Esqr. 213
After the above declaration made by the Selectmen ; a number
of the Inhabitants gave it as their Opinion that there was an
irregularity, in the receiving and Collecting the Votes, and some
mistake as to the Numbers placed to the Names of the Persons
Voted for
It was therefore moved that the sense of the Inhabitants present
might be taken, whether in their Opinion the Elections were
valed — And the Question being accordingly put — Passed in the
Negative
On a Motion made
Voted, that it is the sense of the Town that no Vote for a Rep-
resentative be received but from such as shall enter Fanuiel Hall
after giving in their Votes — also
Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to Notif}r the Inhabitants,
of the intended Adjournment of this Meeting to Wednesday the
BOSTON* TOWN RECORDS, 17*->. 247
fifteenth of May, Instant for the choice of Seven Persons to
Represent this Town in the General Court of this Commonwealth
the Year ensuing
Moved, that when this Meeting is Adjourned, it shall be to to
Morrow ten O Clock in the forenoon, then to meet in this Place
[98.] And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned by the
Selectmen
Wednesday the 15th. Day of May Instant 10. O'Clock in the
Forenoon Town met according to Adjournment
The Town Clerk was called upon to read the Minutes of the
transactions of the Meeting Yesterday, and they were accordingly
read to the Inhabitants
A Motion was made & seconded that the Votes passed by the
Town yesterday, that the Elections of Representatives was not
valed — be reconsidered — After considerable debate, it was the
sense of the Town, that the Question should not be put
The Selectmen having declared to the Town, that theire decla-
ration of yesterday respecting the Number of Votes for Representa-
tives was erronious, and that no choice was had — It was moved &
Voted, that the Town will now Assign a time for coming to the
choice of Representatives
Voted, that the Town will come to the choice of Representa-
tives at 3. O Clock
On a Motion Voted, that the Poll for Representatives be closed
at. 4. O'Clock Afternoon
[99.] Adjourned to 3. O'Clock in the Afternoon
3. O'Clock, Town Met according to Adjournment
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for Seven Representatives, and then it was declared by the
Selectmen, that no Votes will be received but such as are unfolded,
and on one peice of Paper, and that such of the Inhabitants as
give in their Votes at the Door must enter the Hall ; and that they
propose the Poll be closed at half past 4. O Clock.
The Votes, being brought in for Seven Representatives, the
Number of the same were found to be three hundred & Thirty
one ; and upon sorting them it appeared that the following Per-
sons were chose Viz' :
Votes
Thomas Daws Esqr. 321
John Lowell Esqr. 316
Samuel A. Otis Esqr. - 200
Leonard Jarvis Esqr. -291 excus'd
Stephen Higginson Esqr. - - 313 exc'd
John Rowe Esqr. 223
Honble : James Lovell Esqr. 206 exc'd
The choice of Representatives being over and declared by the
Selectmen, the Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring
in their Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting in order that the
Town may proceed in transacting the Other Affairs mentioned in
the Warrant ; accordingly the Inhabitants withdrew and brought
in their Votes, and upon sorting them it appeared, that
248 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
[1OO.] The Honble : Samuel Adams Esqr. was chosen Moder-
ator unanimously.
The Article in the Warrant. Viz1. "To consider whether In-
structions shall be given to the Representatives that rnay be
chosen " — was read — whereupon the Question was put —
Whether the Representatives shall be Instructed Passed in the
Affirmative
Moved, " that a Committee be now appointed to prepare In-
structions for our Representatives" — and the Question being put
— Passed in the Affennative " —and the Question being put —
Passed in the Negative
The Article of the Warrant, relative to the subject matter of a
Report from the Committee to Audit the Treasurers Accompts &
give in a State of the Treasury was read — whereupon said Com-
mittee give in the following Report
The Committee appointed to Audit the Town Treasurers Ac-
compts Report as follows
That it appears by the Treasurers Books, there remains unpaid
of the Towns Debts — Viz1, due
to 30 Persons for Money borrowed ) £6765
before the Seige ----- j
To 42 Persons for Balances of Selectmen & ) „, 090
Overseers Draughts -i------ |
Currency
to 273 d°. for Money borrowed from 1777 to 1780 £40762 [1O1.]
to 23 Persons for money in New Emission £1574
to 122 d°. Ballances of Selectmen & Overseers Draughts
to 171 bro'. into Specie - - - .-....-
to 125 d°. drawn for in Specie . - - - - 2735
615
The exact amount of the debts in Specie cannot be ascertained
as the date of the several Notes are not particularly specified in
the Books, but an Estimate has been made, by which it appears
the State of the Treasury, if all the Notes are entered is nearly as
follows Viz'.
To the Amount of Notes given before the seige ) ~1A,jQ/j , -
... ,, r , > £10686 ,,lo ,, <
with the Interest - j
To ditto since the seige with the Interest - - - 4638 ,, 4 ,, 7
To balances of Draughts before & since the seige 5100 ,, 0 ,, —
£20,425-
To Premiums due to the Collectors and Abatements on the last
Taxes, the Amount of which cannot be assertained as no settle-
ment has been made with the Collectors since the Seige — there-
fore your Committee purpose to the Consideration of the Town as
the Collectors received the Taxes before 1781 in Old Emmission
Money, and paid great part of it into the Treasurey, after it ceased
to be a Currency, whether they ought not to receive their Pre-
meiums in the Same Money they paid into the Treasury where it
now remains
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 249
To discharge the above debts, their appears to be due from the
Collectors, the following Sums — Viz1.
Beef Tax Specie Total
From Frauds Shaw on Acco1. —
IJTax - - £1066 £630 1383 £3079
James Thompson - - - 1163 310 1666 3139
Benjamin Sumner - - - - 512 503 1209 2224
Thomas Bayley ------ 629 165 1289 2074
160.x - - - 10516
[1O2.] States Certificates & Interest New ) 9g7
Emission Bills ------ j~
In Bills of the old Emission - £38,000
of the New Emission - - - - 21,734
It appears by the Selectmens Accounts that they purchased
large parcels of Clothing and other necessaries on Account of the
Towns Quota of Supplies for the Army, part of which has been re-
paid, but there still remains due to the Town on Account of these
Supplies in Specie about — £900
And for the support of the State Poor ) .. ~«~ _
- - - in the Almshouse - - - - j
The Ballances due from other Collectors before the Seige are
not bro* : into this Estamate as its uncertain if any part will be
recovered —
It likewise Appears that the Treasurer has paid Large Sums on
Account of the War great part of which the Committee suppose is
to be repaid out of the State Treasurey or deducted out of the
Towns proportion of the State Tax, they therefore propose that a
Committee be appointed to inquire into the Expenditure of this
Money, & report what Appears to be due either from the State or
those who received the following Sums out of the Treasurey,
Amounting to upwards of Nine hundred Thousand Pounds Conti-
nental Money Viz*.
Paid Col°. Proctor for raising Men &c - - - - . £620 0 0
p Resolve of the General Court - - - - 358,958 0 0
Osgood & Phelps for first & Second) rin r-Q n n
f\ M n M r O1O,OO,7 \J U
Quota of Beef j
John Simpkius for supplys to Soldiers ) g . ,-£)n ~ n
T^ •! \ l ^^t* ^ £\J \) \J
Familys; )
[1O3.] for Horses for the use of the Army 11,200 0 0
Col°. Hatch Bounty & Mileage 6,068 0 0
Col°. Crafts & Others for Shoes & Stockings - 7,595 0 0
Balance due to the Comm66. for purchasing ) . «9 , ^ „
Grain I '•
925, 134 0 0
Paid the aforementioned sums due from the " Collectors & the
State Treasurer Amounting to £13,400 from which may be de-
ducted £3,400 for the Preme. due to the Collectors & the Abate-
ments on the Two last Taxes, will leave £10,000 specie in the
Treasurey, a Sum sufficient to pay all the Debts the Town owes
250 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
except those for Money borrowed before the seige & the Interest
due thereon — The Drafts of the Selectmen since March Amou. to
£466 & those of the Overseers Amotg. to £375 18/ and the
paper Money in the Treasurey are not included in this Estimate —
the former ought to be paid out of the Tax now to be granted ; the
latter must be paid out of the Money now due from the Collec-
tors — the Bills of the New Emission in the Treasurey if sold at
three for one would raise £7240. Specie a sum sufficient to enable
the Overseers to provide for the Poor & to pay the Interest (at
least) if not a great part of the Principal of the Debts due for
Money borrowed before the Seige, but as this will be Attended
with considerable Loss & these Bills must finally be Redeemed at
1| for a hard Dollar the Committee cannot Advise to their being
disposed of, unless two for one can now be obtained, at which rate
they would produce a Sum Sufficient to pay Off all the Debts due
from the Town — Should the Overseers drafts be paid out of the
Money supposed to be in the Treasurey there [1O4.] Will not be
sufficient to pay Off all the Notes given since the Seige, there is
no Doubt that the Proprietors have a Sufficient Sum for the Over-
seers drafts would be content to wait for the principal (if the In-
terest was paid) untill the New Emission Bills were Redeemed, or
other provision made to discharge their Notes — Therefore your
Committee propose the following regulations to the Consideration
of the Town, should they be Voted & Attended too, the Credit of
the Treasurey will be restored & the Town on any Emergency
will be able to borrow such Sums as they may have occasion for
provided the Lender can depend on being paid out of the Tax laid
for that purpose
I1. That the Treasurer be directed to Cause an Advertizemeut to
be published Advertising all Persons who are possessed of any
Notes given by the Late Treasurer Jeffries to bring them in to be
liquidated — Passed
2d : That he give new Notes for the Amount thereof in Specie
one for the Principal and another for the Interest to those who
desire it & expect to receive the Interest out of the Money now
due from the Collectors — Passed
3^. That these Notes be all Numbered, those for principal &
those for Interest both to begin at N°. One, those for the Interest
to be paid before those for the Principal, when there is not suffi-
cient in the Treasury to pay both & in [1O5.] Order to induce
Persons to bring in their Notes those that bring in first to be paid
first & so in Course as they are Numbered — Passed
4ly. That all the small notes & Ballances remaining Unpaid on
any drafts which are to be taken by the Collectors in payment of
Taxes to be liquidated & the Sums to be paid indorsed on the
back of the Note, or an Order drawn on the Collector for the
Amount ; or indorsed on the Proprietors Rate Bill
5&ly. The Collectors be directed not to receive any Notes or
Orders in payment of Taxes except they are endorsed by Treas-
urer Boyer and that they be enjoined to Collect & pay into the
Treasurey, the remainder of all the Taxes committed to them
without Delay —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 251
6th7. That the Treasurer be directed in case any of the Collectors
neglect to pay in the Taxes After the time limitted by Law to put
the Bonds in Suit
7tUy. That the Selectmen be directed not to make any drafts on
the Treasurer to be paid out of the Money now Collecting, except
for the pay of the Watchmen which Money being granted to pay
Off the Notes for Money Borrowed on the Credit of those very
Taxes & the Drafts of the two last Years : cannot be Applied to
any Other use
8thy. That in all their future contracts & drafts on the Treas-
urey, they direct the payment to be made out of the Tax granted
for the purpose of defraying the [1O6.] Charges of the ensu-
ing year when the same is Collected ; and to continue this practice
from year to year
By the Drafts of the Selectmen and Overseers for the last two
years it appears that the Ordinary Charges of the Town for
Schoolmasters Watchmen, Assessors, Treasurer, Town Clerk &
Other Necessary Expencies have amounted to about £4500 p
Annum the Charges of the ensuing year may be estimated at the
same sum, to which is to be Added £1500 already granted for re-
pairing the Streets & Faueuil Hall & Building a New School
House this Will make the Tax for the ensuing year £6,000 ex-
clusive of any demands that may be made on the Town for the
supply of the Army — if any such Demand is likely to be made,
it will be necessary that a further grant be made if it is not
wanted for the Army it may be appropriated to pay the Notes,
given before the Seige in case the New Emission Bills are not
redeemed — what Sum will be necessary for this purpose, & to
make good any Abatements that may be made by the Assessors
is submitted to the consideration of the Town
The Committee having gone through the examination into the
State of the Treasurey, & the Drafts of the Selectmen & Over-
seers of the Poor, as directed by the Vote of the Town, They beg
leave to mention that no enquiry has ever been made into the
Conduct of the Assessors ; and as the proceedings of all Persons
who are intrusted with the Management of Publick Money ought
to be enquired into they [1O7.] Propose that a Committee be ap-
pointed to examine the Assessprs Books, to know on what princi-
pals they proceed in Apportioning the Taxes on the Inhabitants —
what proportion the Real Estate Bears to the Personal — and how
they estimate the Personal Estate & Faculty in order to raise the
sum to be Assessed — These are matters that the Town should
be acquainted with, & if it should appear from such examination
that the Assessors have been in an Error, the Town may then
give such directions as to prevent the like in future.
Since Stating the Above Acco': of the Treasury your Committee
have been informed that the Board of War have a large demand
on the Town for 200 Bush8: Corn about 500 small Arms, Car-
touch Boxes, Belts, Slings, Cartridges, Shot, & Other Articles,
to the Amount of £2640 specie
The Arms &c were delivered to the Col'. Proctor, Simms, &
Hatch, for the Inhabitants who were not provided at that time
252 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
with Arms some of these were Sold & paid for at the delivery
Others were lent to such Persons as were unable to purchase, &
were to be returned, but no Account has been rendred of those
Arms &c. nor have they been returned — Its proposed that a
Committee be appointed to enquire into these Matters & what
consideration the Town have received for the Arms delivered up
before the Seige that were Afterwards taken & repaired by the
.State, & make report at the Next Town Meeting
EDWARD PAYNE
p Order
[1O8.] The foregoing Report having been read and consid-
ered by Paragraphs — the Town came in to the following Votes
thereon
Voted, that a Committee be appointed to confer with the Col-
lectors relative to the Moneys paid into the Treasurey in Bills of
the Old Emission Money before the year 1781, upon the Question
in the said Report, whether they ought not to receive their Pre-
miums in the same Money
Voted, that the Gentlemen
The Selectmen
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Voted, that the Houble- John Pitts Esqr.
Mr. John Winthrop
Samuel Barret Esqr. — excused
Stephen Higginson Esqr..
be a Committee for considering the I1. Paragraph of the foregoing
Report to Report as soon as may be
Voted, That the Town Treasurer be directed to publish an
Advertizement desiring all Persons who are possessed of Notes
of the late Treasurer to bring them in to the present Treasurer to
be liquidated agreeable to the Scale of depreciation fixed by the
Goverment of this Commonwealth
• Voted, that the Treasurer give new Notes for the Amount in
Specie one for the Principal & another for the Interest to those
who desire it & expect to receive the Interest out of the Money
now due from the Collectors
[1O9.] Voted, that these Notes be all Numbered, those for
principal & those for Interest both to begin at N°: one, those for
the Interest to be paid before those for the Principal, when there
is not sufficient in the Treasurey to pay both, & in Order to induce
Persons to bring in their Notes, those that bring in first to be paid
first & so in course as they are Numbered
Voted, that all the Small Notes & Balances remaining unpaid
on any drafts which are to be taken by the Collectors in payment
of Taxes to be liquidated & the Sum to be paid indorsed on the
back of the Notes or an Order drawn on the Collectors for the
Amount or endorsed on the Proprietors Rate Bill
Voted, that the Collectors be directed not to receive any Notes
or Orders in payment of Taxes except they are endorsed by
Treasurer Boyer and that they be enjoined to Collect & pay into
the Treasurey the remainder of all the Taxes committed to them
without delay
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 253
Voted, that the Treasurer be directed in Case any of the Col-
lectors Neglect to pay in the Taxes after the time limitted by Law
to put the Bonds of such delinquent Collectors in suit
Voted, that the Selectmen be directed not to make any
drafts on the Treasurer to be paid out of the Money now Collect-
ing except for the pay of the Watchmen [11O.] which Money
being granted to pay Off the Notes for Money borrowed on the
Credit of Those very Taxes & the Drafts of the two last years ;
cannot be apply 'd to any other Use
Voted, that in all things future contracts & Drafts on the Treas-
urey they direct the payment to be made out of the Taxes granted
for that purpose of defraying the charges of the ensuing year
when the same is Collected and to continue the practice from year
to year
Voted, that the Treasurer be directed not to sell any more new
Emission Money excepting what may be necessary for the pay-
ment of the Watchmen Unless he Obtain one for two
Moved & Voted, that the further consideration of the Report
aforesaid be referred to the Adjournment
Adjourned to Fryday next 10. O'Clock Forenoon
Fryday the 17th Day of May A.D 1782 — Met according to
Adjournment at the Representatives Chamber 10. OClock. Fore
Noon
Mr. Adams in the Chair
Mr. Walley and others the Committee appointed by the Town
to contract for the Towns proportion of Beef for the Continental
Army — Reported
That they had procured the quantity which had been wanted, &
laid before the Town an Account thereof Specefying the par-
ticular [111.] quantities & the Prices on which they were con-
tracted for ; whereby it appeared that a considerable saving had
been made by the Committee and that the Balance still due to
Oliver Phelps Esqr. the Super Intend1: of Purchases, the Person
with whom they contracted for the Beef, is Two hundred and
forty eight Pounds nine Shillings and nine pence — whereupon
Moved, and Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be and hereby
are given to the aforesaid Committee for their good services and
the considerable savings they had made for the Town in said Con-
tract
Moved, that the several Collectors be directed to lay before
the Town a List of the Names of all such Persons as are indebted
for the Beef Tax ; and that the Town make an Adjournment of
this Meeting to receive the same — the Question being accord-
ingly put — Passed in the Affermative
Moved, and Voted, that the Assessors be requested to attend
the Town Meeting, and give information with respect to the
Abatements they have made
The Town Clerk was called upon to lay before the Town the
Vote passed the last year Respecting the Abatements to be made
which was accordingly done
The Moderator having left the Chair and taken a Seat
254 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
[112.] The Selectmen again presided
A Letter from Stephen Higginson Esqr. chosen to Represent the
Town in the General Court the ensuing Year was Laid before the
Town, in which Letter he expresses his hopes that the Town will
for the reasons he has given accept of his resignation of the Trust
they had again reposed in him, — It was thereupon moved and
the Question according!}" put — Whether the Town will accept of
Mr. Higgiusons resignation, and Assign a time for coming to the
choice of another Representative in his room — which passed in
the Affermative
As the Town were informed, that another resignation would be
laid before them in a short time — the Assigning a time was post-
poned for the present
Mr. Adams again took the Chair
The Report of the Committee for Auditing Town Treasurers
Accompts, again read, and after some debate it was moved &
carried that the debate set aside for the present
The Assessors Reported in writing, that the Tax N°: 11
Amounted to £30,981-5-5 on which they had made Abatements
the Sum of £1233-6-7
That the 12th. or last Tax amounted to £24,858-7-10 — on
which they had made Abatements the Sum of £331-16-6, where-
upon it was moved
That the Assessors be directed to proceed immediatley with all
the Abatements that are to be made on the two last Taxes Agree-
able to the Vote of the Town — And that the Collectors be directed
to bring every thing that is to come to their Credit [113.] into the
Treasurey, that so the Town may know at the Adjournment of
this Meeting, what Monies remaine in the hands of the Col-
lectors
The Moderator having again left the Chair and taken a Seat
The Selectmen presided
Mr. Jarvis having by a Letter laid before the Town resigned
the Trust of a Representative, into which he had been chosen for
the ensuing Year
It was moved and Voted, that Five OClock this Evening be
Assigned, for coming to the choice of two Representatives in the
room of Mr. Higginson and Mr. Jarvis who have resigned
Mr. Adams in the Chair
Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned, it shall be to 3.
OClock Afternoon then to Meet at the Representatives Chamber
Adjourned accordingly
3. OClock P: M: Met according to Adjournment
Mr. Adams in the Chair
The Report of the Committee to Audit the Town Treasurers
Accompts, again taken up, whereupon Moved, That a Committee
be Appointed to examine the Assessors Books to know on what
principles they proceed in apportioning the Taxes on the Inhabi-
tants— what proportion the Real Estate hears to the Personal
Estate & Faculty in order to raise the Sum to be Assessed —
[114.] The Question being accordingly put — Passed in the
Affermative
BOSTON TOWN KECORDS, 1782. 255
Voted, that Samuel Broom Esqr. excused
Edward Payne Esqr.
Mr. Herman Brimer
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Moved & Voted, that the consideration of what will be the Sum
proper to be raised by a Tax on Polls & Estates be postponed till
the Adjournment —
On the consideration of the last Clause in the Report of the
Committee to Audit the Town Treasurers Accounts
Voted, that Cap'. Isaac Phillips
Thomas Melvill — excused
Mr. Elisha Sigourney
be a Committee to consider said Clause and Report as soon as
may be —
On a Motion Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be and here-
by are given to Edward Payne Esqr. and others the Committee for
Auditing the Accounts of the Town Treasurer, for the Time they
have generously spent in the business & their Assiduety in pre-
paring said Report — And the Committee have leave to Report
further —
Adjourned to 6 O'Clock in the Evening
Selectmen presided —
This being the Time Assigned for the choice of [115.] Two
Representatives — The Inhabitants were directed by the Select-
men to withdraw and bring in their Votes for Two Representa-
tives ; and then it was declared by the Selectmen that no Votes
will be received but such as are unfolded, & on one piece of
Paper, and that such of the Inhabitants as give in their Votes at
the Door, must enter the Hall, and that they propose the Poll to be
closed at 6. O'Clock —
The Votes being brought in accordingly the number of the
Same were found to be One hundred sixty seven ; and upon
sorting them it appear'd that the two following Persons were
chosen — Viz'.
Honble. James Bowdoin Esqr.
Honble. William Phillips Esqr.
Mr. Adams in the Chair
On a Motion, Voted, that the aforementioned —
The Committee to consider what Steps shall be taken for set-
tling with the Board of War &c.
Reported verbally —
On a Motion, Voted that the aforementioned Committee be re-
quested to reduce their Report to Writing
Major Melvill having desired that he might be excused from
serving on the Committee with Cap*. Phillips & others he was ac-
cordingly excused
Voted, that Mr. Joseph Peirce be added to the said Committee
in the room of Major Melvill
[116.] The Article in the Warrant. Viz*. " To consider and
determine relating to the Premium due to the severall Collectors of
Taxes on the Taxes by them Collected and paid into the several "
256 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Treasurers — was read whereupon Voted, that a Committee be
appointed to take said Article into consideration — Confer with
the Collectors & Report what is proper to be done —
Voted, that Mr. John Coffin Jones
Mr. Thomas Walley excused
Mr. Joseph Russell
Mr. Joseph Barrell excused
Ezekiel Price Esqr. excused
Robert T. Payne Esqr. excused
Samuel Broom Esqr. excused
Timothy Newell Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Voted, that John Lucas Esqr. be added to the Committee for
Examining the Assessors Books, & in the room of Samuel Broom
Esqr. who has been excused from serving —
Moved and Voted, that the late Town Treasurer David Jeffries
be and hereby is required to deliver over the Books, Papers,
Moneys and all other Matters, and Tilings appertaining to the
Office of Town Treasurer unto
Edward Payne Esqr.
William Powell Esqr.
Mr. Hermon Brimmer
•who are hereby impowered to receive the same and give Receipts
for such Monies and other things [117.] as they may receive —
and the said Committee are hereby directed to lodge the same in
the Office of Mr. Treasurer Peter Boyer taking his Receipt therefor,
and lodging the said Receipt in the hands of the Selectmen —
The Selectmen presided
The Honble. James Bowdoin Esqr. chosen one of the Represent-
atives ; informs the Town, that he declines accepting that trust as
by his Letter on file
Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to to Morrow Morning
Eleven O. Clock, for the choice of a Representative in the room of
Mr. Bowdoin who has resigned — and the Selectmen propose the
Poll to be closed at 12. O'Clock
Mr. Adams in the Chair
Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to Wednesday next. 10.
OClock in the Forenoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned —
The Selectmen preside —
Saturday May 18th. 11' O'Clock Met according to Adjournment
This was the time Assigned for the choice., of one Representative,
but a Letter having been received from the Honble. James Lovell
Esqr. acquainting the Town, that he could not accept the Choice
they had made of him for one of their Representatives in the Gen-
eral Court — A Motion was made — That the [118.] Vote of
yesterda}' for coming to the choice of one Representative in the
room of Mr. Bowdoin at this Time, be reconsidered, & that the
Town now determine not to make choice of any Other Persons as
Representatives in the room of those who have declined serving
— this Motion was withdrawn and it was then Moved and Voted,
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 257
that this Meeting be Adjourned to half past 12. O. Clock, for the
choice of two Representatives in the room of the Honble. James
Bowdoin Esqr. and the Honble. James Lovel Esqr. who have re-
signed —
Half past 12. O'Clock. Met according to Adjournment
This being the time Assigned by the Selectmen for the choice
of two Representatives in the room of Mr. Bowdoin and Mr. Lovel
who have declined serving — The Inhabitants were directed to
withdraw, and bring in their Votes for two Representatives and
then it was declared by the Selectmen that no Votes will be re-
ceived, but such as are unfolded, and on one piece of Paper and
that such of the Inhabitants as give in their Votes at the Door,
must then enter the Hall, and that they propose the Poll to be
closed before One O'Clock —
The Votes being brought in accordingly the Number of the
same were found to be, One hundred & fifty three and upon sort-
ing them it appeared, that only one Person was chosen — Viz'.
[119.] Samuel Barret Esqr.
The Inhabitants after the choice had been declared by the
Selectmen were directed to withdraw and bring in their Votes, for
one Representative — and the same declaration was made by the
Selectmen with respect to receiving the Votes &c. as had been
made'previous to the last choice —
The Inhabitants having withdrawn and brought in their Votes
Accordingly the Number of the Votes were found to be Ninety
five, but upon sorting them it appeared, that, no one Person Voted
for had Obtained a Majority of said Votes
It was then moved and seconded that the Vote passed the first
of this meeting for the Choice of Seven Persons to Represent the
Town in the next General Court be now reconsidered, and that no
other Person be chosen in addition to the Six Gentelmen already
chosen After some debate — the Question was accordingly put —
Passed in the Negative —
Moved that this Meeting be Adjourned to 6. O'Clock in the
Evening for the choice of one Representative —
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned —
6. O'Clock Afternoon Met according to Adjournment
[12O.] This being the time Assigned by the Selectmen for
the choice of one Representative still wanting to compleat the num-
ber the Town have Voted to send
The Inhabitants were accordingly directed to withdraw and
bring in their Votes for one Representative ; and then it was de-
clared by the Selectmen that no Votes will be received but such as
are unfolded, and on one piece of Paper, and that such of the
Inhabitants as give in their Votes at the Door must enter the Hall
— and that they propose to close the Poll at Seven O'Clock in the
P>ening
The Votes being brought in accordingly the number of the
same were found to be One hundred and thirty seven, and upon
sorting them it appeared — that
258 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Nathan Frazier Esqr.
was chosen
Wednesday the 22d. Day of May 10. O'Clock in the Forenoon,
Met according to Adjournment
M1. Adams in the Chair
Voted, that the Selectmen be a Committee to Act upon the
List of Jurors
The Committee to consider what Steps shall be taken for set-
tling with the Board of War, their demands on the Town for
Small Arms &c [121.] Beg leave to report, that having made
due examination and enquirey with respect to the Sundrys charged
by the Board of War to the Selectmen they apprehend that the 1st.
Article amounting to £21-9—5 — was for repairs of the State
Hospital, though they cannot find by whose order it was delivered
The 2d. Article delivered for use of Hospital Boat — amounting
to £8-5-10
3d. Article — for use of State Hospital by order of ) „,. _ 9 _ .
Council dated 19th. Sepf. 1777 j
4th. Article for use of Hospital Boat Amo'g to - - 12-10-10
5th. Article - - - - for State Hospital - - - 15-1-7
6th. Article for 20 — Load for Town of Boston - - 80-0-0
7th. Article delivd. J Scolly Esqr. by the Verbal order ) 1 7 _ i o
of the Honble. Benja. Austin Esqr. for Hospital - j
8th. Article delivered J Scolly Esqr. by Order of Court 1 on _ i o _ -
dated Octr. 12th. 1778 for the Sick at the Hospital j d
9th. Article — delivd. J Scollay for Hospital Boat by \Rc, 1Q ,-1
Order of Council dated Novr. 6. 1778 - - - - j b
10th. Article — delivd. N. Frazier Esqr. for a Sick \
Negro at the Hospital by Order of Council Jany. > 14-6
19th. 1 780 )
11th. Article delivd. J Scollay Esqr. for Hospital Boat 1 Qo 901
by order of Council Jan*. 19. 1780 j y
That the 500 bushells Corn charged as delivered Wm. Phillips
Esqr: the Overseers are to account for, As also for the 200 bushels
delivered the Selectmen which by an Order of Court Octr. 12th. 1778
was to be considered as so much paid towards defraying the
Charges of the State Poor
[122.] The small arms &c charged the Militia of the Town
of Boston, were received by Col°. Proctor and by him delivered to
the several Captains of his Regiment, to be put into the hands of
those persons in their respective Companies who were not able to
Purchase them
The Committee are of Opinion that the final Adjustment of
the Account of it, Lays with the Selectmen, and that they should
be directed to proceed in that Buissiness as soon as may be
And if any difficulty should Arise that they take the Sence of
the General Court
THOMAS MELVILL p Order
The foregoing Report having been read and considered, the
Question was put Whether the same shall be accepted — Passed
in the Affermative
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 259
Moved & Voted, that Col". Proctor be directed to Collect all the
Cartridges which have been placed by him in the hands of his
Officers to be used when occasion required it — the same to be
delivered in to the Selectmen
Voted, that Col°. Procter be directed to Collect all the small
Arms and Accoutrements received from the Board of War, that
are now in the hands of the Captains of his Regiment — the same
to be returned to the Selectmen and also to enquire what has
become of such as shall not be returned
[123.] The Committee Appointed to Audit the Town Treas-
urers Account Report further
Whereas the Town has been pleased to Accept the first report
of said Committee & the Regulations therein proposed have been
unanimously Voted, they propose that those regulations should
be published for the information of the Inhabitants
2dly. And in order to corapleat the plan therein proposed, it
will be necessary the real Estate of the Treasury should be
assertained & every Article of Debts, & Oedits, Adjusted,
that the Treasurer may know how to proceed in paying Off the
several Demands on the Town
3dly. It is therefore proposed that the Committee Appointed to
enquire into the expenditure of Moneys received out of the
Treasurey, & the Demands of the Board of War for Arms &c be
desired to report as soon as possible and in case it appears by
their report there is Money due either from the Officers of Militia
or any other Persons for Arms &c received & not returned, or
from those who received Money out of the Treasury, or from any
other Person indebted to the Town that the Treasurer be directed
to demand the same immediately
That the Selectmen be desired to settle the Accounts exhibited
by the Board of War & report what may be due After deducting
the Supplys for the Hospital & the Amount of the Arms belong-
ing to the Inhabitants which the State took into their possession &
Apply'd to the Use of the Army Aftei the Enemy left the Town
[124.] That they procure payment from the State for
Cloathing &c supply'd for the use of the Army by order of the
General Assembly and likewise the Supplys to Soldiers Familys
— 4thy. The That Representatives of the Town be & hereby are
instructed to see that the Town has Credit for what may be due
to them on Account of the Bounty for raising Men for the Army
in 1780. and also on Account of Clothing & any other Supplies
for the Army & the Selectmen are desired to furnish them with
the Necessary documents if it has not already been deducted out
of their proportion of the State Tax — All which is Submitted to
the Consideration of the Town
• EDWARD PAYNE p Order
The foregoing Report was considered by Paragraphs, and
accepted
Moved & Voted, that a Committee be appointed to enquire what
has become of the Arms which were lodged in Faueiuel Hall in
1774 and Report to the Town
CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Voted, that the Selectmen be a Committee for the purpose
aforesaid
Moved that the Selectmen be directed to publish in hand Bills
the Regulations which the Town came into the 15th. Ins4, in con-
sequence of a Report of the Committee appointed to Audit [125.]
the Town Treasurers Accompts and to take orders that the same
be delivered to the several Freeholders and Inhabitants of the
Town — and the Question being put — Passed in the Affirmative
Moved & Voted, that the Town Treasurer be directed to call
upon Cap'. John Simkins for an Adjustment of the Accompts for
the Supplies of the Soldiers Familys ; and to receive any Moneys
that may be due thereon
Voted, that the Representatives of the Town be and they hereby
are Instructed to see that the Town have Credit for what may be due
to them on Account of the Bounty for raising Men for the Army
in 1780 — and also on Account of Clothing and any other Sup-
plies for the Army and the Selectmen are directed to furnish them
with the necessary documents, if it has not already been deducted
out of their proportion of the State Tax
The Committee to whom by a Vote of the Town on the 1 7th.
Ins': was refered to the Consideration of the Demands of the
Collectors for their premeium on the Taxes by them paid to the
Several Treasurers — Report that having considered with the Col
lectors on the Subject & examined the resolutions of the Town
relating thereto, they are of Opinion that the Collectors are entitled
for the year 1777 to a premium of Seven & half p Cent for the
Money they paid within four Months, [126] five p Cent for what
they paid within twelve Months on Account of the Tax for that
year, from the time of its being committed to them
That for all the Subsiquent Taxes in 1778. 1779 & 1780. they be
allowed five p Cent on all payments they have made within four
Months three & f p Cent on all payments made within. Eight
Months, & two & half p Cent on all payments made within twelve
months from the time of their being committed to them & that
for the payments not made within twelve Months the3T are not
intitled to a premium — That the several Collectors be directed
to exhibit their Accounts conformable thereto as soon as may be
for a Settlement
JOHN COFFIN JONES
The foregoing Report having been read and considered — the
Question was put — Whether the same shall be accepted — Passed
in the Affermative
The Selectmen a Committee to confer with the Collectors rela-
tive to the Moneys paid into the Treasury in Bills of the Old
Emission Money before the year 1781 — upon the Question in
said Report Viz4. — Whether they ought not to receive their Pre-
mium in said Money Reported
That in their Opinion the Collectors ought not to receive their
Premium in Bills of the Old Emission
[127»] The foregoing Report having been read and con-
sidered— the Question was put- — Whether the same shall be
accepted passed in the Affermative
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 261
The Committee appointed to consider the I8t. Paragraph of the
Report of the Committee to Audit Town Treasurers Accompts,
Reported Verbally and in part — and Asked leave to Report again
Moved and Voted, that the Town Treasurer be directed to call
upon Col°. Proctor to account for the Monies put into his hands
for the purpose of raising two hundrded and Sixty four Men
in 1780
Voted, that the Sum of Five thousand Pounds in Silver & Gold
be raised by a Tax upon the Polls and Rateable Estates of the
Inhabitants of this Town in order to defrey the necessary
Expences of the ensuing Year
Moved, that the Town Treasurer be and he hereby is directed
to Issue Writs of Distress on all the Collectors who are deficient
in paying in the Tax, called the Beef Tax, on or before the 1st.
Day of July next — and the Question being put — Passed in the
Affermative
Voted, that all Matters & Things which remain unfinished at
this Meeting be referred for consideration, to the next General
Town Meeting that shall be called
[128.] Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be and hereby
are given to the Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. the Moderator of
this Meeting for his good services as Moderator
Moved & Voted, that this Meeting be dessolved
And it was accordingly dessolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned, in public
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Tuesday the 18th.
Day of June Anno Domini 1782. 3. O.Clock P: M:
Warrant for calling the Meeting read
Moved and Voted, that a Moderator for this Meeting be chosen
by a Hand Vote ,
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
was chosen Moderator of the Meeting accordingly
The Article in the Warrant Viz*. " To consider and determine
whether the Town will choose Collectors of Taxes in the room of
those chosen last March Meeting, they not being eligible accord-
ing to a Vote of the Town passed the 15th. Day of March last, or
reconsider said Vote " : — was read, and after debate had thereon
— It was moved, [129.] that the Question be now put, Viz1.
Whether the Town will proceed to the choice of new Collectors of
Taxes, in the room of th,ose chosen last March Meeting, they not
having as yet complied with the Vote of the Town passed the
15th. of March last in order to their having the new Tax Books
committed to them
And the Question being accordingly put — Passed in the
Affirmative
It was then moved, and Voted, that there shall be four Collec-
tors of Taxes chosen in the room of those Persons chosen
Collectors at the March Meeting — and the Question being accord-
ingly put — Passed in the Affermative
262 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
It was then moved, and Voted, that the choice of Collectors of
Taxes be referred to the Adjournment of this Meeting
The Petition of the Collectors of Taxes praying " that they
may have sundry Abatements made them of the Tax committed to
them to Collect of the Inhabitants in September 1781 " — was —
read after debate had thereon it was moved, That the Assessors
be permitted to set two Weeks, from this Day, for the Abatement
of such Taxes on the Tax N°: 11 and 12. as they shall Judge to be
reasonable — and that they be directed to' take a list of the
Names of the Persons and their Taxes, which Taxes could not be
Collected, by reason of Persons being Absent, or other Necessary
Causes; [13O.] and that they lay the same before the Town at
the Adjournment of this Meeting ; any former Vote to the contrary
notwithstanding
And the Question being accordingly put — Passed in the Af-
fermative
It was moved, that this Meeting be Adjourned to to Morrow
fortnight being the third Day of July next. 3. O'Clock Afternoon —
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Wednesday the third Day of July Anno Domini 1782 — 3.
O'Clock in the Afternoon — Met according to Adjournment
Moved and Voted, that the Town now come to the choice of
two Persons as Clerks of the Market in the room of two others
chosen into that Office at the March Meeting
Mr. James White was chosen a Clerk of the Market for the en-
suing Year, in the room of Mr. Conent who is abroad
Mr. Samuel Smith was chosen a Clerk of the Market for the
Year ensuing in the room of Mr. Frazier who has gone abroad
The Assessors agreable to a Vote of the Town passed the 18th.
Day of June last — permitting them to set two Weeks, from that
Day [131.] for the Abatement of such Taxes on the Tax N°. 1 1 .
and 12th. as they shall Judge to be reasonable &c. laid before the
Inhabitants a List of the Names of the Persons and Taxes which
could not be Collected on the Tax N°. 11 and 12 — by reason of
Persons being absent or other necessary Causes
Moved, that the Town now come to the choice of four Collectors
of Taxes Agreeable to a Vote passed at the late Meeting — And
the Question being accordingly put — Passed in the Affermative
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for four Collectors of Taxes, and the same being brought in
and sorted, & before the Vote was declared, a Motion was made
that the Votes passed by the Town the 15th. Day of March last
relative to Collectors and the Subsequent Vote in consequence
thereof which was also passed by the Town on the eighteenth
Day of June last be now reconsidered — And the Question being
accordingly put — Passed in the Affermative
Mr. Benjamin Sumner Junr. one of the Collectors of Taxes
chosen in March last appeared, and prayed the Town that he may
be excused from serving in that Office the present Year — and the
Question being accordingly put — Passed in the Affermative
On a Motion made — Voted, that when this Meeting is Ad-
journed, it shall be to Fryday Next 3. O'Clock in the Afternoon.
BOSTON Towx RECORDS, 1782. 263
[132.] On a Motion made Voted, that the Selectmen be and
hereby are impowered and directed, to allow Mr. Isaac Warren In-
terest on the Money advanced by him for the Town on furnishing
and procuring Shoes for the Continental Army ; from the time it
became due
Adjourned to Fryday the 5 Day of July Instant, 3. O'Clock
afternoon then to meet in this place
Fryday the 5th. Day of July. 3 O: Clock Afternoon, Met accord-
ing to Adjournment
On a Motion Voted, that the Persons chosen Collectors of Taxes
at the March Meeting, be called upon to acquaint the Town
whether they would serve in that Office the Year ensuing
Francis Shaw Esqr. one of the Collectors appeared, and being
called upon, acquainted the Town, that he declined serving in that
Office the present Year, and prayed that his resignation might be
accepted by the Town for the reasons he had offered — The Ques-
tion being accordingly put — Passed in the Affermative
Mr. James Thompson another of the Collectors being present,
was called upon, when he informed the Town, that he declines
serving in that Office the present Year, for reasons by him offered ;
and prayed that his refusal might be accepted by the Town
[133.] The Question being accordingly put — Passed in the
Affirmative
Mr. James Bayley the other Collector of Taxes appeared, and
also declined serving in that Office the present Year, — and prayed
that the Town would accept his excuse, for the reasons he had
given; and the Question being accordingly put — Passed in the
Affermative
The Committee upon the Petition and Memorial of Mr. Samuel
Ruggtes, respecting the Debt due from Mr. Holeyday a late Col-
lector, having examined the Papers are of Opinion
That the Assessors be directed immediately to Abate the Taxes
of such Persons on said Holeydays List, as have been reduced by
means of the War, and who are still unable to pay, and the Taxes
of those who have died, or joined the Enemy and left no Estate ;
provided they are satisfied that such Taxes were not lost by the
negligence or undue leinety of the said Collectors — and that
Samuel Ruggles Esqr. as Administrator of the Estate of said
Holleyday be impowered and enjoined to Collect and pay, or give
his Obligation to pay, the then remaining balance into the Treas-
urey of this Town, within the space of six Months from the time
the Assessors shall determine the Abatements upon which the
Bonds of the said Hollyday to be discharged
EBENEZER HANCOCK p Order.
[134.] The foregoing Report having been read, and consid-
ered — the Question was put Viz'. Whether the same shall be ac-
cepted — Passed in the Affermative
On a Motion made. Voted, unanimously, that the Thanks of
the Town be and hereby are given to Mr. Christopher Clark, for
his generous Donation of a Bell for the use of one of the publick
Schools in this Town
264 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Moved that when this Meeting is Adjourned it shall be to Mon-
day next 5 OClock. P: M:
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Monday July 8th Five O'Clock in the Afternoon — Met accord-
ing to Adjournment
Moved and Voted, that the Town now come to the choice of four
Collectors of Taxes
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for four Collectors of Taxes — and the same having been
brought in and sorted, it appeared that
Mess™ : Thomas Bayley
Charles Williams
Daniel Parker
William Fallass
[135.] were chosen Collectors of Taxes for the year ensuing.
Moved and Voted, that the Vote passed at a late Meeting,
directing the Town Treasurer to commence a Suit against the Col-
lectors of Taxes for the Beef Tax so called, be reconsidered
And the Question being accordingly put — Passed in the Affir-
mative
The Committee appointed to enquire into the conduct of the
Assessors in Apportioning the Taxes on the Inhabitants, what
proportion the Real Estate bears to the Personal, and how they
Estimated the Personal Estate and Faculty, in order to raise the
Sum to be Assessed, having attended that business — Report as
follows
That the Estimates made by the Assessors of the value of the
Real and Personal Estate of the Inhabitants, appears to be nearly
the same, with the Estimates, made by the General Court, on
which the Towns proportion of the State Tax was Assessed
That the Income of the Real Estates deducting Repairs amounts
to Upwards of Nine thousand Pounds, and the Interest on the
Personal Estate including Money on hand and at Interest, Stock
in Trade, Vessels and Income by Trade and Faculty at six per
cent amounts to near twenty Six thousand Pounds — from these two
Sums [136.] amounting to about thirty five Thousand Pounds,
they deduct the amount of the Poll Tax, and the remainder
is the Sum on which the 12th. Tax is apportioned on this Sum
the Assessors calculate, how much in the Pound will raise the
Sum to be Assessed ; and what it amounts to in the Pound every
Inhabitant is charged on the amount of his perticular Valuation,
both of Real, and Personal Estate being eight Shillings and eight
Pence on the State Tax, and four Shillings on the Town and
County
In the Tax now coming out the Income of the Real Estate
amounts to ten thousand Nine hundred and twenty Six pounds,
and the Personal to twenty Thousand five hundred ninety four,
and turns out five shillings, and eleven pence to the State
Tax, and three Shillings and five Pence to the Town
But the Assessors have no certain Rule by which they Estimate
the Personal Estate of the most part of the Inhabitants as not
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 265
more than one hundred and twenty Persons have given in Lists,
the remainder being nineteen parts out of twenty, they are under
a necessity of dooming, according to the best Information they
can obtain, which no doubt is often erroneous, and must occasion
some Individuals to be taxed more and less, than in Justice they
ought to pay ; this will always be the case while the Inhabitants
[137.] are doomed, and your Committee can devise no remedy,
unless the Inhabitants in general can be prevailed on to give into
the Assessors, true Lists of all their Rateable Instates
EDWARD PAYNE p Order
The foregoing Report having been read and considered — the
Question was put — Whether the same shall be accepted — Passed
in the Affirmative
Moved, that the Town Treasurer be directed, in case the late
Collectors do not pay into the Treasury their respective Ballances
on or before the eight Day of October next, to put the Bonds of
such delinquent Collectors in Suit, — And the Question being ac-
cordingly put — Passed in the Affirmative
On a Motion, Voted, that all Matters and things which remain
unfinished at this Meeting, be referred over to the next General
Town Meeting that shall be called
On a Motion Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be and
hereby are given to Ezekiel Price Esqr. for his good services as
Moderator of this Meeting
Then the Meeting was dessolved
[138.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in
publick Town Meeting Assembled at Fanuiel Hall the 25th Dav of
July, Anno Domini 1782. 3. O'Clock. P:M:
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting, and the same being brought
in and sorted it appeared — that
Nathan Frazier Esqr.
was chosen Moderator
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. "To consider what Measures
shall be taken to Anticipate the payment of the Continental Taxes ;
and to Loan such further Sums of Money for a few Months only
as their respective Circumstances will possibly admit of ; and
such other Matters as are earnestly recomended, by the General
Assembly in their Resolves of the 4th and 5th of July Instant " —
was read together with the said Resolves, and two Circular Letters,
accompanying them whereupon
Moved, that a Committee of three Persons be appointed for
each Ward in the Town, to wait upon the Inhabitants who
[139.] are Taxed, and impress upon their Minds, the Absolute
necessity of the immediate payment of the present Tax. —
and the Question being accordingly put - - Passed in the
Affermative
Moved that a Committee of twelve Persons be appointed and
266 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
that they be directed to retire into the Selectmens Chamber, and
Report Three suitable Persons in each Ward for the Above Com-
mittee — and the Question being put — Passed in the Affirmative
— also
Ward
Voted, that Mr. John R. Sigorney N°. 1
Mr. John White - -' - - - 2
Mr. Daniel Parker 3
Edward Proctor Esqr. ....4
Mr. John Larking --- 5
John Scollay Esqr. - -. 6
Major Thomas Melville ----.-..7
Mr. Jeremiah Belknap -- 8
Edward Payne Esqr. 9
Nath1. Appletou Esqr. 10
Thomas Daws Esqr. ---11
Honble. Caleb Davis Esqr. 12
be a Committee for said Purpose
The Article in the Warrant. Viz'. " To consider the request of a
Number of the respectable Inhabitants, that some Measures may
be taken to prevent the Alarming Effects of a Combination of the
Bakers, in order to compel the Inhabitants to receive Bread on
their own Terms" — was read — and after some debate it was
moved [14O.] and carried ; that all further debate on this matter
subside for the present
Moved and Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned, it
shall be to this Day three Weeks in order to receive the Report of
the Collectors of Taxes
The Committee appointed to Report the Names of three Persons
in each of the twelve Wards suitable to compose the Committee of
Thirty six to wait upon the Inhabitants of their respective Wards
agreeable to a foregoing Vote — Reported a List accordingly —
whereupon the following: Persons were chosen for said Committee
— Viz4.
Cap1. William Brown ~) Ward
Cap'. Silas Atkins N°. 1
Deacon Jonathan Brown )
Mr. Alexander Hill
Mr. Thomas Vernon
Abiel Ruddock Esqr.
Mr. Samuel Eliot
Mr. Edward Edes
Cap1. John Ballard
Francis Shaw Esqr.
Alexander Edwards
Mr. Samuel Parkman
Jonathan Williams Esqr.
Deacon William Boardtmn
Mr. Thomas Hitchburne
[141.] John Coffin Jones Esqr.
William Greenleaf Esqr. N°. 6
Mr. Joseph Hall
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 267
Deacon Tim0. Newell
Joseph Callender
Samuel A. Otis Esqr.
Isaac Smith Esqr.
John Codmau Senr.
Deacon John Simpkins
Honble. William Phillips Esqr. )
Mr. John Andrews y
Mr. Joseph Coolidge )
Thomas Walley Esqr. ^
Col°. Joseph Webb 10
Majr. John Reed )
Mr. Joseph Barrell \
Samuel Barrett Esqr. 11
Mr. Joseph Russell Junr. )
Cap'. Gustavus Fellows \
John Lucas Esqr. 12
Majr. John May )
The Article in the Warrant relative to the Combination of the
Bakers was again read — and after much debate and altercation
with the Bakers, it was moved, and carried, that all further de-
bate on this Article totally subside
The Meeting was then Adjourned to Thursday the 15 Day of
August next 3. O. Clock in the Afternoon, then to meet in this place
[142.] Thursday the 15th Day of August Anno Domini 1782
— 3. O'Clock Afternoon met according to Adjournment
Mr. Frazier in the Chair
Mr. William Fallass one of the Collectors of Taxes, being in
the Meeting, was called upon to make Report relative to the
Monies he had Collected of the Inhabitants in his Ward, for the
late Continental Tax
Reported, that he had Collected of the Middling People in his
"Ward, and paid into the Treasury of this Commonwealth to the
Amount of Six hundred pounds lawful Money
Moved and Voted, that all Matters, and things which remains
unfinished at this Meeting, be and hereby are referred over to the
next General Town Meeting then to be Acted upon
Moved and Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be and hereby are
given to Nathan Frazier Esqr. for his good services as Moderator
of this Meeting
Moved, that this Meeting be dissolved and it was accordingly
— dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and Other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in publick
Town Meeting [143,] Assembled at Fanuiel Hall the 15th. Day
of August Anno Domini 1782 — 5. O'Clock Afternoon
Warrant for calling the Meeting read
Moved and Voted, that the Town come to a choice of a Moder-
ator by a Hand Vote
Nathan Frazier Esqr.
was chosen Moderator of this Meeting
268 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Mr. Thomas Bayley one of the Collectors of Taxes being in
this Meeting was called upon to make Report relative to the
Monies he had Collected of the Inhabitants in his Ward, for the
late Continental Tax
Reported that he had Collected, and paid into the Continental
Treasury of said Tax, upwards of Eight hundred Pounds lawful
Money
The Article in tlie Warrant Viz*. " To consider and determine
what is proper to be done relative to the. Towns deficiency of men
for the Massachusetts Line of the Army, a Warrant from the
Treasurer of this Commonwealth having been issued for the
Assessors to Assess the Sum of £2370 — 13 — 4 on the deficient
Class or Classes in this Town, being the Average price .of
the cost of raising the whole Number granted by ^his State "
was read — whereupon it was moved and Voted, that the Com-
mittee [144.] appointed for raising this Towns proportion of
Men for the Continental Army be called upon to Report — When
they Reported accordingly
That 586 Classes paid the Committee £45 each, for which
Classes they had procured the Men- — 7 Classes paid the Com-
mittee £45 — each for which Classes they had not procured men
That 18 Classes had paid £525 — 18 — 3 in part 78 Classes
the Committee have received of in whole and part —
3 Classes have procured their own Men 4 Classes have neither
paid the Money nor yet the Men — D Moraton. W Sherburn.
J. Russell. C. Clark
85 Men is the Towns Quota Mem0, the Committee have on
hand about £770
Mr. Collector Williams, being in the Meeting, was called upon
to make Report relative to the Monies he had Collected in his
Ward Reported
That he had Collected and paid into the State Treasurey Five
hundred and Eighty Pounds, and into the Town Treasurey —^
Fifty three pounds eight shillings and Six pence
The first Article in the Warrant relative to the Towns deficiency
of Men for the Massachusetts Line being again taken up, it was
moved and
Voted, that a Committee of three Persons be appointed to take
up this Article [145.] at large, and Report what they may ap-
prehend will be best for the Town to do thereon, at the Adjourn-
ment of this Meeting
Voted, that the Honble. Rob4. T. Payne Esqr.
William Story Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Moved and Voted, that the Committee Appointed to inlist this
Towns proportion of Men for the Massachusetts Line, be desired
to continue their good services untill the same are Obtained
The Article in the Warrant Viz'.
" To determine whether Gravel shall be taken from Fox Hill for
repairing the Streets " — was read — whereupon
Voted, that the Selectmen have liberty to take as much Gravel
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 17*2. 269
from Fox Hill, as they ma}7 Judge Necessary for the Repairs of
the Streets of this Town, any preceeding Votes to the contrary not-
withstanding
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. '• To consider of some way for
discharging what is due to several of the Town Watch for former
Wages " — was read whereupon
Voted, that the Town Treasurer, be directed to pay the Watch-
men of the Town, their back Wages, out of the first Monies of
the Old Tax that shall be received into the Treasury
[146.] Mr. Daniel Parker one of the Collectors of Taxes
being in the Meeting was called upon to make Report relative to
the Monies he had Collected in his Wards for the late Continental
Tax
Reported that he had Collected & paid into the State Treasure}1
of said Tax upwards of Six hundred Pounds
Moved that this Meeting be Adjourned to Monday next being
the 19th. of August Ins1. 5. O'Clock in the Afternoon, then to
meet at the Representatives Chamber
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Monday the 19th. Day of August 1782. 5. OClock in the After-
noon — Met According to Adjournment
Nathan Frazier Esqr. in the Chair
The Committee to whom was referred the consideration of the
first Article in the Warrant respecting the deficiency of the
Towns quota of Men to be raised & have Attended that service
and now Report to the Town that upon enquirey into' the Matter
they find that the Inhabitants of this Town having been aranged
into 85 Classes for the Purpose of procuring the 85 Men
[147.] 58 of those Classes paid the Money required of them
by the Town to the Committee appointed for hiring the Men, and
they were accordingly hired Mustered and received
5 of the Classes procured the men themselves
7 of the Classes paid to the Committee their Money in due
season Viz'. — £45 — but the Committee were not Able to pro-
cure the Men
12 of the Classes paid part of the £45 — in due season
3 of the Classes paid nothing nor procured their Men
85 Classes. The Chairmen of the Classes who are wholy delin-
quent are
Mess" : Dimond Morton
Joseph Russell Merch' :
Christopher Clark
The Committee therefore beg leave to submit the following pro-
posals to the consideration of the Town — Viz4.
That the Committee for procuring Men be vested with dis-
cretionary power and directed to procure the deficient number of
Men with the greatest dispatch and on the easiest terms they can
That the Assessors be directed forthwith to Assess the whole
average sum of the price of hiring a Man as certified by the Treas-
urer of this Commonwealth and the 20 pr. cent upon the delinquent
Individuals [148.] in the twelve Classes respectively, who have
270 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
paid only part of their £45 — the Money already paid by any
part of such Classes to the Committee to be applied towards, hir-
ing a Man for such Class, when wanted for that purpose
That the Assessors be directed to Assess said whole Average
Sum with the 20 per Cent on the three Classes who are wholly
delinquent ; and if either of the three Classes who are wholy
delinquent or any of the twelve Classes who are delinquent in
part, should procure their Men before the Sum aforesaid to be
Assessed upon them shall be Collected, that then such Sums shall
not be Collected, any part that is Collected shall be returned also,
that the Committee for procuring Men be directed for to procure
the Men for the 7 Classes who .paid their whole £45 — in season,
and what prices, is paid therefor over and Above the forty five
Pounds, if any be Assessed hereafter at Large upon the Inhabi-
tants of the Town, at the next Tax that shall be levied
all which is submitted
R. T. PAYNE p. Order
The foregoing Report having been read, and considered — the
Question was put. Viz1. Whether the same shall be accepted —
Passed in the Affirmative
Moved and Voted, that all Matters and things which remaine
unfinished at this Meeting be and-hereby are referred [149.] over
to the next General Town Meeting that may be called, then to
Act upon
On a Motion Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be and
hereby are given unto Nathan Frazier Esqr. for his good services
as Moderator of this Meeting
Then the Meeting was — dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified, and legally warned in publick Town
Meeting Assembled at Fanieul Hall on Tuesday the 3d. Day of
September AD 1782 — 9 OClock — A: M
Warrant for calling Meeting — read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting, and the same being
brought in and sorted it appeared, that
The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. was chosen Moderator
unanimously
On a Motion, the Pitition for calling a Town Meeting — was
read
The Article in the Warrant. Viz*. — " Then and there Agreea-
ble to the request of a great number of the respectable Inhabitants
to take into their serious consideration, what [15O.] Steps are
proper to be taken on Account of the Alarming and distructive
lengths to which the ellicit Trade with our Enemies is now carried
was read
Samuel Broom Esqr. having laid before the Town several Let-
ters from Cap'. Collis Mr. Prentice &c and Other Papers relative
to a Number of -Persons carrying on an Illicit Trade with the
Enemy which he had lately brought from Connecticut where they
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 271
had been taken — it was moved that the same be read, and they
were accordingly read by the Moderator
Mr. John Proctor one of the Persons mentioned in said Letter,
Apprehending his Character might be injured by the same ; being
in Town Meeting, handed to the Moderator a Deposition Taken
before a Majestrate, & moved that the same might be read — and
it was accordingly read, & then placed on the File of Papers
Moved and Voted, that a Committee be appointed to wait upon
his Excellency the Governor, and to request that he would be
pleased to communicate to the Town such Papers or informations
as he may Judge proper respecting an illicit trade carrying on with
the Enemy
Moved, & Voted, that this Committee consist of five
Voted, that the Honble. Robert T. Payne Esqr.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Samuel Broom Esqr.
[151.] Isaac Sears Esqr.
(excused) Stephen Higginson Esqr.
Charles Jarvis Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
The Article in the Warrant relative to illicit Trade with the
Enemy, was again taken up, and after some debate it was moved
and Voted, that a Committee be now appointed, to take into consid-
eration what Steps are proper to be taken, on Account of the
Alarming and distinctive lengths to which the illicit trade with our
Enemies is now carried — and that this Committee consist of
seven
Voted, that the Honble. Samuel Adams P^sqr.
Honble. John Lowell Esqr.
Charles Jarvis Esqr.
Stephen Higginson Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley
Honble. Caleb Davis Esqr.
Isaac Sears Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid to Report at the Ad-
journment of this Meeting
The Committee appointed to wait on Governor Hancock —
Reported that having waited on the Governor agreeable to the
direction of the Town, His Excellency had delivered to them a
Deposition taken in Connecticut, and an Original Paper of great
importance
The said Papers having been laid before the Town, it was moved
that the same be read & they were accordingly read
[152.] Moved & Voted, that there be an Addition of two
Persons to the Committee relative to an illicit trade
Voted, that Robert T. Payne Esqr.
Samuel Broom Esqr.
be added to said Committee
Moved & Voted, that Adam Babcock Esqr.
be added to the aforegoing Committee
Moved and Voted, that it be recommended to the Inhabitants at
large, that they communicate to the Committee relative to an
272 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
illicit Trade such Ideas or Information as they shall Apprehend
may be useful
Moved & Voted, that the Town Clerk furnish the Committee
aforesaid with Copies of the Papers, received from the Governor
Moved & Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned, it shall
be to Fryday next. 3. OClock Afternoon then to Meet in this
place
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Fryday the 6 Day of September 1 782 — Met according to Ad-
journment 3. O. Clock P.M.
The Committee appointed to consider what Steps are proper to
be taken on the alarming and distructive Length to which an illicit
[153.] Trade with our Enemies is now carried on — represented
as follows
The Artful and insidious Cabinet of Britain, sensible of the
Inefficacy of their Fleets and Armies to enslave America and
hitherto disappointed in their Expectations from Bribery &
Corruption, (Engines, which to their Astonishment, have proved
of no use, when Applied to the Free Sons of America, th6. in
common with the most Successfull of all Means to subdue Man-
kind to the Will of Tyrants) have in the excess of their Folly and
Lust of Domination, Adopted the Absurd Idea of Subjugating
America, by throwing in upon us a Flood of their Manufactures
and Incouraging a Commercial Intercourse between us and
them — For this purpose their Admirals and Generals appear
to have Assumed the Character of Custom House Officers,
Brokers, & such Other as may be necessary to facilitate their
Views. By this Trade they expect to destroy that great, that mut-
ual Confidence so happily subsisting between us & our Magnanimous
Allies ; to revive that foolish Predilection which We once had for
British Manufactures and British Manners ; to Open to themselves
new Avenues and acquire fresh Means of instilling the Principles
of Toryism and sowing the Seeds of Disaffection Among the
weak & unwary ; to send their Emissaries into all parts of the
Continent to forment Divisions, create distrust as to our Rulers
and by the Meanest and [154.] the vilest Arts to distroy that
happy Union which has hitherto been, & while it continues can-
not fail (under God) to be our sure Rock of Defence — And Above
all to drain us of our Money, the Sinews of War : having drawn
from us our Medium in this Way, having made their Arrange-
ments, posted their Emissaries, and secured their Partizens they
expect by a violent run on our National Credit, and to deprive us
of all future Means of Defence Such are clearly their Views &
these are the Mean Arts which haughty, though fallen Britain, is
compelled to make use of. — To the disgrace of America, a few of
her Sons, blinded by the Lure, & devoid of all Principle, have
catched at the Bait ; and misled by Avarice, have taken the high
Road to Infamy and Ruin
The United States in Congress Assembled, sensible of these
Evils, and Attentive to the safety of their Constituents, have in
every Instance within their Jurisdiction by their Ordinances,
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 273
endeavoured to suppress such illegal! Commerce, Trade and Inter-
course & in other Instances recommended to the Legislatures of
the several States to make effectual Provision, by Laws for that
purpose, and called on the People to give Aid in carrying such
Laws into Effect.
The Inhabitants of Boston in Town Meeting Assembled,
determined ever to be watchfull of their common Rights and
[155. J Liberties, and Attentive to the publick Safety — sensible
of the evil & destructive Tendency of such Trade & Intercourse
— impressed with the necessaity of restraining it, — of Testifying
their Abhorrence of such Base Practices — and giving all Possible
Aid in the Execution of the Laws, do enter into the following
Resolutions
First that we will exert ourselves to the Utimost to detect &
bring to due Punishment all those who shall import Goods from
Any Part of the British Dominions, and particularly from any
Post held by the British in America ; or any Goods of British
Growth or Manufacture thr6. any Foreign Ports, other than those
Allowed by Law ; or who may be directly or indirectly concerned
in sending Money to any of those Posts. — or who shall encourage
or promote Any Kind of Intercourse with the Enemy.
2d. -That the Delacacy which some People Affect to feel, as to giv-
ing information, or making a Complaint of those who are engaged
in such Vile Pursuits, is false and Absurd in its nature ; Arrising
from wrong Ideas of the Path of Honour ; and the Line of Duty —
That in cases like this to become Informer, is to be the Patriot,
and it ought so to be considered by all those who regard the Pub-
lick Weal
3dly. That this Town will therefore not only countenance, & sup-
port all those who may be vigilent and active in detecting [156.]
Informing, or Complaining of such Enemies to their Country ; but
will always use them as Characters highly deserving Respect and
Esteem
4th. That we will on the Contrary, esteem all those, who appear
to be concerned in such infamous Traffick, as Enemies to our
Freedom and Happiness wholly unfit to reside among Freemen : &
we will by withdrawing all Intercourse from them & by treating
them, on all Occasions, with Disrespect & Indignity, equal to their
Demerit, convince them, that Americans cannot Associate with
such base Characters.
5th. That in every Instance where Opposition may be made to
the execution of the Laws prohibiting such Trade and Intercourse
we Will give all possible Aid to the Executive Branch of Govern-
ment in carrying those Laws into Effect
6th. That our Representatives in the General Court be and
hereby are Instructed to urge an immediate and Attentive Revision
of the Laws of this State, respecting Trade & Intercourse with the
Enemy, that all Necessary Alterations & Amendments may be
speedily made
7th. That the Committee of Correspondence Inspection & safety
of this Town, be and hereby are desired to be particular watchful
of those who are suspected of being concerned in Trade or Inter-
274 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
course with the Enemy and to communicate to the Attorney Gen-
eral any Discoveries they may make
8th. That as any Individual has a Right to Inspect all Packages
of Goods that are transporting [157.] as well by Land as Water,
and to seize all such Goods as may appear to be illegally Imported
in either of those Ways it is earnestly recommended to the Inhab-
itants of this Town individually to examine all such packages as
they may have reason to Suspect unless the Conductor thereof
shall produce to them Certificates or other Satisfactory Evedence
that such Packages contain no Goods Subject to Seizure
9th. That this Town do hereby recomeud an Association to be
immediately formed by such worthy Persons as shall Voluntarily
engage therein, vigilantly, to guard against the Danger of such
Goods being Artfully run into it under cover of the Night ; arid
reposing great Confidence in the Zeal and Virtue of such Associ-
ators, do rely upon the most diligent Watch being kept in such
Numbers as they shall think Sufficient to prevent this Atrocious
Bussiness, by the most Carefull Inspection and Examination of
all such suspected Persons, Vessells, Waggons &c as shall be met
with in the Course of their Duty. And the Selectmen are hereby
instructed to give orders to the Town Watch to patrol the Streets,
and Wharves, with the special Intent of detecting this Illicit
Trade, as well as to preserve the Peace and Order of The Town
in the Night
10th. That a Circular Letter be written to our Brethren in the
other Towns in this State, to be signed by the Town Clerk, in the
Name of this Town, containing the foregoing Resolutions, being
the Measures which this Town has Adopted to Suppress this
Shameful Trafflck and to pray their Assistance in effecting so
laudable a Purpose
[158.] The Town having considered and Accepted the fore-
going Resolutions proceeded to the Consideration of a Circular
Letter, also reported by the Committee, which was Accepted
The Town Voted, that the Selectmen be instructed to pro-
cure such a Number of Printed Copies of the aforesaid Resolu-
tions and Letter, as they should Judge Necessary & Transmit
them, Signed by the Clerk to the Selectmen or Committee of the
Several Towns, and Plantations Accordingly.
The Circular Letter is as follows Viz1.
Boston 6th. September 1782
Gentelmen
The rapid and distinctive Progress of an Illicit trade with the
British in their different Ports on this Continent has filled the In-
habitants of this Town with the Most Alarming Apprehensions.
As it is not Surprising that a Cruel and Insidious Enemy so Often
disgraced by the failure of their Other efforts to Accomplish the
ruin of this Country should have recourse to this last expedition
from which they undoubtedly expect the Most important benefits,
it is easy to see Gentelmen, that the continuance of this Pernicious
Traffict must necessarily involve the want of a Sufficient Medium
for the Common purpose of Society — A circumstance, should it
unfortunately happen, which must soon distroy the pecuniary and
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 275
indispensable resources [159.] of the Goverment, and by giving
a deep wound to our Military Opperations so Necessary for our
defence, endanger the very being of this Commonwealth
Impressed with these Sentiments this Town has thought proper,
at a Meeting of its Inhabitants, legally Convened for this ex-
press purpose, to communicate the inclosed resolutions, for your
Serious Consideration, in the fullest confidence of your Adopting
such Measures as in giving vigor to the Laws must undoubtedly
contribute to the Total extirpation of such an unnatural com-
merce
As we are sensible that the efficacy of the best plan for the
Attainment of so Salutary An Object, must at last depend on the
united efforts of the Towns in this goverment — We Trust in
such An interisting conjuncture, that the Patriotick Ardor which
has so long and uniformly distinguished the Inhabitants of this
State, will induce the most Zealous concurrence in these or similar
Measures which can have no other Object but the publick good
On a Motion Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to transmit
the Circular Letter when prinl ed to the Selectmen of each Town
& Plantation, and in their Absence to the Committee of Cor-
respondence Inspection and Safety
[16O.] Voted, that all Matters & things which remain un-
finished at this Meeting be and hereby are refered over to the
next General Town Meeting that may be called
On a Motion, Voted, that it be recommended to the several
Printers in the Town to publish the foregoing Resolutions, and
Circular Letter in their respective News Papers
Moved and Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be and hereby
are given to the Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. Moderator for his
good services in the dispatch given to the business of the Meeting
Then the Meeting was dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders & Other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified & legally warned in publick Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneiuel Hall on Saturday the 7th Day of
December Anno Domini 1782. 10. OClock Forenoon
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
The Inhabitants were directed by the Selectmen to withdraw &
bring in their Votes for a Moderator and the same being brought
in and sorted, it appeared, that
The Honble : Samuel Adams Esqr.
was chosen unanimously
[161.] The Article in the Warrant — Viz*. "To consider of
some suitable Method of shewing the Gratitude and Respect of the
Town to the Army and Navy of his most Christian Majesty, was
read. — whereupon — It was moved and Voted, that
The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr.
The Honble. James Sullivan Esqr. '
William Cooper — Esqr.
276 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
be a Committee to prepare an Address to His Excellency the
Baron Viomenil General & Commander in Chief of the Forces of
his Most Christian Majesty, lately arrived in this Town pursuant
to the Warrant for calling the Meeting — & to Report at the Ad-
journment
Moved & Voted, that this Committee be directed to withdraw,
and Report as soon as may be
The Committee to prepare an Address Report the following
Draught of one which being read and considered by the Town —
the Question was put Whether the same shall be accepted —
Passed in the Affermative — unanimously
To his Excellency the Baron Viomenil General and Commander
of the Forces of his most Christian Majesty in the United States
of America
Sir
The Freeholders & other Inhabitants of the Town of Boston
legally Assembled [162.] in Faneiul Hall congratulate your Ex-
cellency on your safe Arrival at the Capital of this Common-
wealth
It is with particular Pleasure that we embrace this Oppertunity
of testefying the Singular Respect with which we regard your
Excellency, and the gallant Troops under your Command ; sent
by his most Christian Majesty the illustrious Ally of the United
States, to their Succor and Crowned in this Service with the most
brilliant Success and permanent Honors
We Assure your Excellency that no part of the United States,
can be impressed More deeply with every Sentiment, becoming the,
Most faithful Allies, towards, the King your Sovereign, and the
Nation which he governs with so much Glory, or can entertain a
higher Sense of the great Merits of his Land & Naval Forces in
America, than the Inhabitants of Boston. Our whole Country
Attest the perfect Discipline, the uncommon good Order and
Civility which these Forces have constantly preserved ; a Circum-
stance among many Others which while it leaves the most agreea-
ble Impression on the Minds of the Inhabitants in every Quarter,
and must be extremely favourable to the publick Friendship, can-
not but at the same time hightein our Regard at their Departure. —
Wherever these Forces may still be employed, May Heaven
defend their Persons, prosper their value, and add new Glories to
their Names and to that of their Nation
Your Excellency we are sure will be [163.] pleased, that
upon this Occasion we do not forget to mention with the Utmost
Respect the Name of Count Rosharabeau your Predecessor in this
important Command, whose distinguished Services in America can
never be forgotten, and to whom also we ardently wish every
Felicity.
May the happy Alliance with France never be dissolved or im-
paired in the support of which Such Expences have been incurred
— Such Toils endured — such invaluable Lives exposed — Such
great Actions displayed, and such genourious Blood Offered —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 277
And ma}- the reciprocal Fruits of it to both Nations be perpetually
augmented
On a Motion made — Ordered, That the Honourable Samuel
Adams Esqr. the Moderator, the Honourable James Sullivan Esqr.
and Samuel Barret Esqr. together with the Gentelmeu the Select-
men be and hereby are appointed a Committee to wait upon his
Excellency the Baron Viomenil General and Commander of the
Forces of his most Christian Majesty, with this Address — Then
the
Meeting was dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in publick Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the fourth
Day of December Anno Domini. 1782 10. O'Clock in the Forenoon
[164.] The Warrant for calling the Meeting read
The Inhabitants were then directed to withdraw and bring in
their Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting, and the same being
accordingly brought in and sorted, it it appeared, that
Benjamin Kent Esqr.
was chosen Moderator
The Act intitled an Act " for the more effectual Observation of
the Lords Day " was read, — also
The Article in the Warrant that the Inhabitants would agreeable
to a late Act of the General Court, to choose twelve Wardens to
serve the remainder of the year — was read — and after consider-
able debate had thereon —it was Moved
That the consideration of the choice of Wardens be suspended
untill the General Town Meeting in March next — And the Ques-
tion being accordingly put — Passed in the Affermative
On a Motion, Voted, that a Committee be now chosen to draw
up a Memorial to the General Court, in order to State the Reasons
why the Law intitled an Act for the more effectual Observation of
the Lords Day, Militates with the Constitution — [165.]
as also with respect to the inexpediency of said Act — and to
report the Draught of a Memorial at the Adjournment of this
Meeting — also
Voted, that Col°. Tudor
Dr. Charles Jarvis
Perez Mourton Esqr.
The Honble: James Sullivan
Benjamin Hitchbourn Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Moved and Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned it shall
be to Wednesday next being the eleventh Day of December In-
stant. Ten O. Clock in the Forenoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
10. OClock. Forenoon December 11th. Met according to Ad-
journment
Benjamin Kent Esqr. the Moderator of the Meeting, not
278 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Attending, it was moved and Voted, that the Town proceed to
the choice of a Moderator Pro Tern0, when
Samuel Barret Esqr.
was chosen Moderator accordingly
The Committee appointed to present the Address of the Town
to his Excellency — The Baron Viomenil General and Commander
of the Forces of his Most Christian Majesty in the United States
[166.] Reported that they had presented said Address, to
which the Baron had been pleased to make Reply — which Reply
being presented in French and English, they now laid before the
Town
The Reply in English was read to the Town, and is as follows
— Viz1.
Gentlemen
It belonged to the Count de ROCHAMBEAU much more
than to nryself to receive those distinguished and flattering Testi-
monies which you have been pleased to give to the conduct of the
Troops, placed by the choice and confidence of the King, in his
hands in order to serve the cause of your Liberty — It is by per-
suing the intentions of his Majesty, and the Orders, the particular
Instructions and the example of the General which he gave us
that we have been able to inspire you with these Sentiments of es-
teem and Attachment of which you now Assure us in expressions
that do us the greatest honor
All the principal Officers of this Army, are, as well as myself,
Gentlemen, extremely touched with your Suffrage in their favor ;
it in a manner insures to them the approbation of the King, and is
a very flattering recompence for the care they have taken to main-
tain Discipline in the Regiments which they command ; the other
Officers by whom they have been perfectly secured, will also be
penetrated with the same sentiments ; And the whole Army [167.]
see with Satisfaction, how thoroughly you are perswaded, that it
is the perfect Union that has reigned between the American
Troops the Marine of the King and the French Corps under the
Orders, of the Count de Rochambeaue, that France and the United
States are indebted for that Success you so kindly applaud
Permit me also Gentlemen to seize the present moment for de-
claring to you our Admiration of the virtues, the talents, and the
accomplishments, which so particularly distinguish his Excellency
General WASHINGTON. We all desire that the homage of our re-
spects, and of our warm wishes for his preservation and happiness,
may be agreeable to him as a testimony of the Satisfaction we
have had in serving under his Orders
I may venture to assure you beforehand, Gentlemen, that the
King will very sensibly feel the good wishes which the Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston have so ardently made for the glory of his
Reign and the prosperity of the Nation which he governs. The
disinterestedness and the wisdom of the views, of his Majesty in
all that he has done for the support of the Independence of America
do not admit a doubt that the next destination of this Army will
still contribute with efficacey to the Compleate establishment of
that Object. To whatever part of the Earth his Orders may send
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 279
it, all who compose this Corps will ever remember with [168.]
much sensibility, the pleasing wishes you have expressed for us on
our departure
The Assurances of your Affection, and the expression of your
desires for the Maiutainance of the Alliance which his Majesty
regards, as one of those happy events that has marked his Reign
having not the least Room to doubt of the duration of this Union,
or of the great Advantages that will result from it to the two
Nations in all times to come
For myself nothing Gentelmen could flatter me more, than the
particular marks you have been pleased to give me of your
esteem. I beg you to accept, together with all the thanks I
owe to you, my most sincere respects and my assurances, that
1 shall ever form the warmest wishes for the prosperity of the
United States in general, and for the happiness of the Citizens of
Boston in particular
Moved and Voted, — That the Town Clerk be directed to pub-
lish in the News Papers at the expence of the Town — the Ad-
dress of the Inhabitants to the Count de Rashambeau the General
of the French Army, together with the Reply made to said Address
in both languages
Moved and Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned it shall-
be to Wednesday next. 3. O. Clock in the Afternoon
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. — "To consider what allow-
ance shall be made [169.] Mr. Isaac Warren for loss sustained
on Monies he received for Shoes supplied the Town " — was read
— and after some debate it was moved, that the further consider-
ation be referred to the Adjournment of this Meeting
Adjourned as by a proceeding Vote to Wednesday next being
the 18th. of December Ins'. 3. O.Clock in the Afternoon
Wednesday the 18th. Day of December 3. O.Clock Afternoon —
Met according to Adjournment
Benjamin Kent Esqr. in the Chair
The Committee to draw up a Memorial to the General Court
relative to the late Act for the better observation of the Lords
Day being called upon to Report
Col°. Tudor the Chairman of said Committee being in the Meet-
ing, acquainted the Town the Committee had not as yet been
able to make Report — and therefore they desired the Town to
allow them a further time for that purpose — whereupon
Moved and Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned, it
shall be to Fryday seven Night at three O'Clock in the After-
noon
Moved and Voted, that the Town Clerk acquaint the Inhabitants
in the News Papers of the Adjournment of this Meeting and that
the Committee relative to the Lords Day Act are then to Report
[17O.] The Article in the Warrant Viz'. — " To consider
what allowance shall be made Mr. Isaac Warren for Loss sustained
on Monies he received for Shoes he supplied the Town " was read
•whereupon it was moved that a Committee of three be Appointed
280 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
to take this Article into consideration, and to make Report as
soon as may be
This Motion having been carried Ezekiel Price Esqr. was chosen
one of the Committee, but having desired the Town to excuse
him he was accordingly excused — It was then moved and Ob-
tained that the Vote for choosing three Persons on this Committee
be reconsidered, and that
The Gentelmen the Selectmen be a Committee for the purpose
aforesaid, the}r are desired to make Report to the Town at the
Adjournment
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. — "-To consider whether any
Measures shall be taken relative to the Sweeping of Chimnies " —
whereupon moved and Voted, that a Committee be appointed to
consider this Article and Report to the Town there Opinion thereon
at the Adjournment of this Meeting
Voted, that Samuel Broom Esqr.
Col°. William Tudor
Col°. Daws
Col°. Sears
Dr. Noyes
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
[171.] Then this Meeting was Adjourned to Fryday the 27th.
Day of December Ins1. 3. O. Clock in the Afternoon
Wednesday (Friday) the 27th. Day of December 3. O'Clock
Afternoon — Met According to Adjournment
The Committee relative to Mr. Warren Reported ; when it was
moved, and Voted that the Report lay upon the Table for the
present
The Committee relative to Chimnies Reported, which Report hav-
ing been read and considered, it was moved & Voted, that the
Report be recommitted, in order for the Committee to draw up a
By Law relative to the Matters, contained in said Report — and
to lay the same before the Town at the Adjournment
The Committee relative to the Act for the better Observation of
the Lords Day — Reported the Draught of a Memorial to the
General Court, which having been read & considered by the Town
in Paragraphs — the Question was put Whether the same shall be
accepted — Passed in the Affermative
The Memorial is as follows — Viz*. Commonwealth of Massa-
chusetts
To the honourable the Senate & the honorable the House of
Representatives in G-eneral Court Assembled at Boston Jany.
1783
[172.] The Freeholders & Other Inhabitants of the Town of
Boston legally convened in Faneuil Hall by Adjournment on the
27th. of December 1782. beg leave, humbly to represent their
Solicitude at the Appearance of an Act passed in the last Session
of the honourable Court " For the more effectual Observation of
the Lords Day" — We are by no Means insensible to the Impro-
priety of those Disorders on the Sabath, the Prevention of which
is the declared Object of the Law in Question ; As we firmly be-
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 281
lieve that but few People have paid a more becomeing & regular
Attention to a Day, which our Policy & Religion have both conse-
crated to Rest & Devotion, than the Citizens of this Town. — We
fear however, that this Law, strained beyond the Line of Expedi-
ency, if not of the Constitution (the Barrier of our Civil and
Religious Liberty) must defeat its own Purposes ; & so far from
the Benefits expected, will be productive only of those disorders,
which it is intended to prevent
In our present Opposition of Sentiment to that of the honoura-
ble Court it is a Source of very pleasing Reflection that the present
is the only Instance where its Commands have not met the most
ready & ever Chearful Acquiescence, Nor is it without the ut-
most Respect as well as sincere Attachment to the Constitutional
Guardians of their Liberties, that the Inhabitants of Boston now
presume to Offer their Objections to an Act in the Event of which
they are deeply and essentially interested.
[173.] Having made these Assurances — We presume they will
serve us for an Apology (if an Apology can be necessary to give a
Sanction to the Remonstrance of Freemen to their Governors) in
laying before your honours the Reasons which operated in our
Minds, as well on the Score of Expediency, as in a constitutional
View, to effect a Repeal of this Obnoxious Statue — It needs only
to be suggested to your Honours that the difficulty of executing a
Law, is b3" no Means a trivial Objection to its Existance, where
the Urgency of the Case does not render it indispensible. The
Confusion and Necessities unavoidably Attendant on a State of
War, will never Admit of that perfect Repose which is the Com-
panion only of Peace. To put a Stop to those Employments
which the Past & present Exigences of State have rendered indis-
pensible equally at all times, would be highly burthensome to the
People if not dangerious to the Safety of the Commonwealth.
The War has introduced amongst us many Citizens of foreign
States, the Benefit of whose Friendship & Assistance, We have
largely experienced ; & who though denominated Subjects of
Monarchies, where will is Law — have never been controuled in
the Exercise of those first and original Rights of Nature, peacea-
bly walking in, and breathing a free Air ; Against these People
therefore Policy as well as a Regard to our National Carrecter for-
bids the Execution of this unnatural Statute ; And to [174,]
distinguish those who are in this Predicament, from the Natives
of the State, will excite Complaints at least from many Against a
Law which must be partial in its Operation & unequal in its
Effects. — In Another View the Inexpediency & Impolicy of the
Act is strikingly obivious ; The Officers who are appointed to ex-
ecute it, while they are Vested with extraordinary Powers, & are
supernumerary in their Nature will forever be obnoxious to the
People at large. For any Discription of Men to be impowered
forceably to stop the Subject, who is quietly Passing the publick
Streets & to demand of him a Reason why he occupies that
Space, or breaths that Air in preferance to any Other is so humil-
iating an Authority & so insulting an Interrogatory as no Free-
man can submit to : While the Warden shrouding himself under
282 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
the Sanction of the Statue & fancying like Paul in the time of his
Infidelity in persecuting the Christians, he is doing God's service,
may persist in the Insult, and a Breach of the Peace will probably
ensue. — The Act therefore instead of being a Security to the
peaceful Devotions of the Religious will become the Instrument of
their Disturbance.
The general Aversion to the Machinery of Wardens is height-
ened, when it is seen that the Civil Magistrates, and the ordinary
executive Officers are sufficient for the Preservation of the Peace
& good Order of the Community six days out of Seven. — And
the People can see no Reason why the same Magistrates [175.]
and the same executive Officers should not be considered as com-
petent to the same purpose on the remaining seventh Day : Unless
the Wardens, though created by civil Authority are in fact in-
tended as Officers of Religion, set up to direct & controul in
Matters of Conscience. — This Idea whether just or not, will
forever keep alive a Prejudice against them, which may frequently
endanger the Civil Peace.
May it please your Honours
In a constitutional View of the Act, the Inhabitants of this
Town (Although they consider themselves as the unquestionable
Judges, at least for the Purpose of remonstrating, whether a
Statute made to effect them, exceeds the Line of the Constitution
or not) are sorry to have Occasion thus early to oppose their
Sentements to those of their Legislators upon so important a Sub-
ject : Confident However that no Legislature upon Earth are more
ready to here & attend to the decent & manly Remonstrances of
their Constituents, or any part of them, than ours, We are Sure
to have the Matter candidly revised & discussed & judiciously
determined. The Laying different Restraints & Penalties in the
same place ; the making that Act a Crime for one Class of Citizens ;
which is not so for another, & the Annexing unequal Punish-
ments to the same Offence in different parts of the Commonwealth
(though generaly considered As strong Exceptions to any Law
under a free Goverment) are however [176.] in this Instance
merged in the more substantial Objections to it
For We humbly conceive this Act militates with the Spirit if
not the Letter of the Constitution. By that original solera Com-
pact by which the whole People have covenanted with each Indi-
vidual & each Individual with the whole People, every natural
Right is Secured to the Citizen which is not surrendered in un-
equivocal Terms — Liberty in its most simple & Obvious Sense ;
the Liberty of moveing, from one Place to another is so far from
being one of those Natural Rights which the People of this Com-
monwealth have surrendered that we esteem it one of the dearest
Gifts of God to Man, & the Preservation of it among the primary
Objects of the social Compact, the Legislature therefore can
neither destroy or restrain it, but as a necessary Punishment for
the Commission of a Crime : It must involve in it the highest
Absurdity to make the simple Exercise of this Right a Crime in
itself for which the Subject (in addition to the loss of his En-
joyment) shall suffer- an expensive & disgraceful Punishment.
BOSTON Towx RECORDS, 1782. 283
We beg leave in a few Instances to compare or rather to con-
trast the Constitution with the Act. By the Bill of Rights it is
expressly declared that no Subject shall be held to answer for any
Crimes or Offence untill the same is full}- & plainly substantially &
formally described Agreeable to the Formalities prescribed by
Law, " And that every Subject has a Right [177.] to be secured
from all unreasonable Searches & Seizures of his Person &c. by
the Statute the Warden is empowered to Answer for a Breach of
this Act, without any Formalities prescribed by the Laws. — By the
Bill of Rights it is declared that no Subject shall be compelled to
accuse or furnish Evidence against himself — The Act Subjects
a Man to Imprisonment without Limitation, Unless he will not only
furnish the Warden with Evidence of his Name, but accuse him-
self of a criminal Persuit if he has any
By the Bill of Rights, it is expressly declared that the executive
shall not exercise the Legislative & Judicial Powers, or either of
them ; By the Act, the Warden is an executive Officer, with a
Power of imprisoning or executing at his Discretion
A bare Recital of these Circumstances we presume (even if the
Principals upon which the Act is founded were otherwise perfectly
unaceptionable) are sufficient to demonstrate its Unconstitution-
ality in the Mode of Proceedure should it be adopted & such a Power
given to the Wardens, most of the offence defined in the Statute
would go unpunished
As we conceive upon the fundamental Principles of a free Gov-
erment, if the Constitution had been altogether silent upon the
Subject, that the Necessity of lodging such Powers in the Hands
of the Wardens & Obliging the Party to be his own Accuser
[178.] to carry it into Execution, would forever remaine an un-
answerable Objection to the Act ; We should hardly expect an
Argument of this kind in its Support, since it appears so clearly
opposed, both to the Letter and the Spirit of the Bill of Rights, for
it would be a very Singular Mode of Reasoning, upon any other
Subject, to countenance the Violation of a Rule by giving Exist-
ance to the very Mischief it was calculated to Destroy
It may be contended that the Bill of Rights clearly implies an
Authority in the General Court to make such an Act, because they
are expressly impowered " To provide for the Institution of the
Publick " Worship of God, & for the Support and Maintenance of
Publick " Protestant Teachers of Piety Religion & Morality," "and
to enjoin An Attendance upon such Teachers at stated Times &
Seasons, if there be any on whose Instruction they can conscien-
tiously and " conveniently" Attend. " That the Legislature have,
in Virtue of this Authority a Right to confine the free People of
this Commonwealth within the Walls of their own Houses for one
whole Day in seven except such part of the Day only as may be
employed in the Publick Worship of God : But we humbly con-
ceive the Bill of Rights countenances no such Authority. The
only Power given to the Legislature by the Paragraphs recited
was to provide for the Institution of the Publick Worship, for
the Support and Maintenance of Publick Teachers of Piety
Religion & Morality & to enjein an [179.] Attendance upon such
284 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Teachers, without the remotest Reference to or Connection with
any Other Objects ; And if the Legislature can from this Part of
the Bill of Rights deduce such Authority, why ma}7 they not with
equal Propriety, for the same space of Time, consign the Subject
to the Stocks or the Pillory, as well as make him a Prisoner within
the Walls of his own House. There is certainly a Degree of igno-
minious Restraint, in either of them, equally Abhorrent, to the
pure Principles of Religion, as averse to every Idea of Civil
Freedom
That Clause of the Statute, which imposes a Penalty on him,
who shall Absent himself from Publick Worship for a certain space
of Time (though the provision of it seems to adopt part of the
Letter of the 3d. Article of the Bill of Rights) we conceive either
to be Nugatory & useless, or contrary to the true meaning of the
very Clause in the Bill of Rights it intends to comprahend — If
its meant by this Clause of the Law that the Individual is to be the
Sole Judge of his own Conscience we Ask, for what purpose is
the penalty Annexed to the Breach of it, for as no other person
can have the Right to pronounce him guilty, and as he cannot be
compelled to criminate himself his Guilt must remaine forever
improved, and the Law in this view be rendered fruitless &
void
But if, as another part of the Statute provides the breach of
this Clause as well as [18O.] others is to be tried on Issue at
Law, And the Individuals Conscience is to be squared by the
Rules of other Mens. we conceive it to be unconstitutional ;
because as the Worship of the Deity, and the Rights of Con-
science in the Duties of Religion are unquestionably between God
and the Individual alone, they must be ranked among those
unalienable Rights, we cannot delegate to Society, and which are
so explicitly secured to us by the first Article of the Bill of
Rights : nor does any Other part of the Constitution justify a
contrary Idea ; for that Clause in the 3d. Article which invests the
Legislature with Authority to enjoin an Attendance upon publick
worship, can Mean no more, than to give them a Right to recom-
mend it to the People, as essential to their Happiness. — We are
justified in this Construction, because there is no power given to
the Legislature by that clause, to annex a penalty or Punishment
to the Non Observence of such Injunctions.
A Power to enjoin, without a Right to enforce the Injunction
cannot amount to more than a Right to Recommend :
And if it had been intended they should have the Power to
enforce their Injunctions with the Penalties &c. why is not the
Constitution explicit on so interesting a point ; its Silence, and
the Repugnancy of the Principle to every Idea of Freedom, together
with its consequential militation with other parts of the Constitu-
tion— We therefore conclude [181.] this Clause of the Act,
though ostensibly adopting, in the proviso of it, the Letter of a
Clause in the Bill of Rights, is however contrary to the real
Letter & Spirit of the whole Constitution.
But to bury all the Objections to this Act in one uncertain
principal it is urged, That the General Court must have a Right to
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1782. 285
enact such Laws as have a tendency to promote the General
Good. — That the present Act having that Good for its sole
Object, can be Objected to only on Account of its inexpediency ;
and hence it is infered, that though the people at large may have a
Right to Judge in Case of a direct violation of the Constitution,
yet when the Question is merely to, the inexpediency of an Act,
the General Court alone must be Judges in the last Resort
This is an Argument, which has seldom failed of Success in
depriving a free People of their Liberties ; but this like the Others,
when brought to the Test or Original principles & the Constitution
will be found false & inconclusive
" Though it always has been difficult, if not impossible to de-
termine upon the very nice Line, between the Constitutional
Authority for the supreme Legislative and the unalienated Rights
of the People, We suppose there are Cases, among which the
present may be safely Ranked, [182.] in which the extreme
Inexpediency of the Measures must render it perfectly unconstitu-
tional ; since to allow the Legislature ; a Right of enacting such
Laws as from their extreme Inexpediency must produce the Most
dangerous Convulsions in the State, would be to grant them a
power of defeating the very End of the Social Compact, When-
ever then the Legislature Shall assume the Right of making such
Laws, we think ourselves Authorized by the Spirit of the free
Constitution We live under, to declare our Sentiments — We there-
fore pray your Honours that a Statute, so Apparently inexpedient
& unequal & as we apprehend repugnant to those civil & religious
Liberties, secured to us by the Declaration of Rights may be
forthwith repealed and another be Adopted more congenial to the
principles of the Constitution and the Spirit and Sentiments of free
Citizens
Moved and Voted, that a Committee be appointed to present
the foregoing Memorial to the General Court, and that this Com-
mittee consist of ten Persons
Voted, that Charles Jarvis Esqr.
Perez Morton Esqr.
Leonard Jarvis Esqr.
Benjamin Hitchbourn Esqr. ,
William Tudor Esqr.
Samuel Brick Esqr.
[183.] John Lucas Esqr.
Mr. James Jarvis
Isaac Sears Esqr.
Joseph Barrel Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
On a Motion Voted, that the Gentelmen who Represent this
Town in the General Court be and hereby are Instructed, to sup-
port the foregoing Memorial in the General Court
Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to Thursday next. 3.
O. Clock Afternoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
286 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Thursday the second Day of January 1783. 3. O'Clock After-
noon— Met according to Adjournment
The Committee to take into consideration " what allowance shall
be made Mr. Isaac Warren for loss sustained on Monies he re-
ceived for Shoes Supplied the Town beg leave to Report.
That it appears to the Selectmen that the said Warrens loss on
receiving two hundred and forty two Pounds in Certificates,
instead of Specie Amounts to the Sum of Twenty four Pounds
four Shillings — They therefore recommend to the Town that he
may have a Draught from the Selectmen on the Town Treasurer
for said Sum of twenty four pounds four Shillings
JOHN SCOLLAY Chairman p Order
[184.] The foregoing Report having been read and con-
sidered — the Question was put — Whether the same shall be
Accepted — Passed in the Affermative
The Clause in the Warrant Viz1. To consider what shall be
allowed the Town School Masters for their services from the first
of September last " — was read and considered, whereupon
Voted, that the Sum of One hundred Pounds be allowed and
paid unto Mr. Samuel Hunt for his Salary as Master of the
South Grammer School for six Months commencing from the
first September last, the same to be paid him Quarterly as it shall
become due
Voted, that the Sum of One hundred Pounds be allowed and
paid unto Mr. Nathan Davis for his Salary as Master of the
North Grammer School for six Months commencing from the
first of September last, the same to be paid him Quarterly as it
shall become due
Voted, that the Sum of Ninety five pounds be allowed and paid
unto Mr. James Carter — for his Salary as Master of the
Writing School in Queen Street for Six Months commencing from
the I1: of September last the same to be paid him Quarterly as it
shall become due
[185.] Voted, the Sum of Ninety five pounds be allowed and
paid to Mr. John Tileston for his Salary as Master of the
North Writing School for six Months commencing from the 1st. of
September last, the same to be paid him Quarterly as it shall
become due
Voted, that the sum of Ninety five pounds be allowed and paid
unto Mr. John Vinal for his Salary as Master of the Writing
School for six Months commencing from I1, of September last,
the same be paid him Quarterly as it shall become due
Voted, the sum of Fifty pounds be allowed and paid unto
Mr. [Samuel Payson ?] for his Salary as Usher of the South Gram-
mer School for six Months commencing from the 1'. of September
last, the same to be paid him Quarterly as it shall become due
Voted, that Mr. John Tileston Master of the North Writing
School be allowed Twenty Pounds for six Months House Rent the
Same to be paid him Quarterly as it shall become due & to com-
mence from the 1st. of September last.
Voted, that Mr. Nathan Davis Master of the North Grammar
School be allowed and paid for Six Months House rent Twenty
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 287
pounds the same to be paid him Quarterly as it shall become due
& to commence from the 1st. of September last
[186.] Voted, that Mr. John Vinal Master of the Writing
School in the Common be allowed and paid for six Months House
rent the sum of Twenty pounds to be paid him Quarterly as it-
shall become due & to commence from the 1'. of September last
It was moved & Voted, that the Report of a Committee some
time past relative to David Jeffries Esqr. which has been accepted
be now reconsidered — also
Voted, that the Above Report be recomitted, and that said Com-
mittee be desired to take into consideration and Report as soon as
may be what they shall Judge should be allowed the late Treasurer
Jeffries for all his services to the present time — sent
Moved and seconded that a List of the Persons, and their
Taxes which have not been Collected by the several Collectors be
recommitted to the Assessors, and that they be and hereby are
impowered to make such Abatements thereof as they shall Judge
it was not then, neither is now in the power of the said Collectors
to receive
And the Question being accordingly put — Passed in the Affer-
mative
Adjourned to Wednesday next Three O'Clock Afternoon
[187.] Wednesday the 8th. Day of January 1783 Three
O'Clock Afternoon — met according to Adjournment
Benjamin Kent Esqr. in the Chair
Moved & Voted, that Ezekiel Price Esqr. be excused from serv-
ing on the Committee to whom is referred the consideration of what
may be due to the late Town Treasurer for all his services to the
present time
Voted, that Nath1. Appleton Esqr.
Edward Payne Esqr.
be added to the foregoing Committee who are to make Report to
the Town as soon as may be
"The Article in the Warrant Viz4. To consider and determin
What shall be allowed the Assessors for their services in that
Office " — was read — whereupon it was moved and Seconded, that
the Town now determin what the Assessors shall be allowed for
their services p Day — And the Question being put — Passed in
the Negative
Moved and Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned, it
shall be to Monday next being the thirteenth Day of January at
3. O. Clock in the Afternoon
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned.
[188.] Monday the 13th. Day of January 1783 3 O. Clock
Afternoon — Met according to Adjournment
The Committee relative to Chimnies laid before the Town their
Report which being read and considered paragraph by paragraph
was amended in Meeting and Accepted by the Town and is as
follows Viz4.
288 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
That the Gentelmen the Selectmen be desired to Advertise for
some suitable person to undertake the Sweeping of Chimuies who
shall have an exclusive right on condition, that he contract with
them in behalf of the Town, in such a Manner as to Answer the
purpose intended. Whos title shall be known by the Name of a
Comptroller. And as the following outlines of a plan and Estimate
may be serviciable in shewing the propriety of the Measure ; it is
Offered for consideration. Supposing 1800 Dwelling Houses and
3 funnells to a House the Number is 5400 and if necessary to be
swept THREE times in a year they will be equal to 16200 Funnells
and at the price Chimnies are now swept Viz4. 3/6 one with an-
other will amount to £2835. And it is presumed they may be
swept for €810 which is only one shilling p Chimney, and a sav-
ing made of more than £2000 p Annum if some such plan as the
following be Adopted Viz'. One Master not to exceed — £200
p Annum [189.] at the discretion of the Selectmen
6 Sweepers @> £100 — 600
Brooms & Scrapers To - - £810
each Sweeper to have two Wards, or what is equal in funniels to
one sixth part of the whole (to be under the direction of the
Master) which will give him 9 funnels p Day & 300 Working
Days in the year will compleat his 2700 or 6th. part. Six Sweepers
upon this Estimate, will sweep the 16200 funnells or the 1800
Houses 3 funnell each 3 Times in a year. — The Master may
easily have the Dwelling Houses from the Assessors Books which
will readily give him the funnells commonly in use. And as some
Chimnies may require sweeping Oftener and others not, it is sup-
posed that the Estimate is full high , but the experience of one year
will make it more certain. It is not doubted, but an Act of Gov-
erment may be obtained (if their is not one already sufficient for
the purpose) to empower the Town, if Agreeable to them ; to
Oblidge the Inhabitants under a penalty to sweep their Chimnies
at least three times in the year ; And no reasonable person can
have a just Cause of Complaint, when the Sum to be paid will be
so much less and the Advantages arising so great from some such
Regulations as the Above.
The Committee appointed to Report, the Draught of a Ey Law
relative to the regular sweeping the Chimuies of this Town Re-
ported [19O.] a By Law accordingly, which was considered by
Paragrafs & cemented, & the Question being put weather the
same shall be Accepted as a By Law of the Town, Passed in the
Affermative and is as follows viz*.
It is hereby ordered and directed that every Person occupying
any House or Tenement within the Town, of Boston shall cause
such Chimney of such House or Tenement, wherein a Fire is
usually kept, to be sweept three times at least, every year, if it
Appears in (the Judgement of the Inspecter to be necessary.)
And the Occupier of every Such House or Tenement shall forfeit
& pay the Sum of ten shillings for each & every Chimney which
shall not be Sweept as Above directed
And it is further ordered that each and every Inhabitant whose
Chimnies shall be swept in the Manner before ordered, shall pay
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 289
to the Chimney Comptroller, at & after the Rates following, if
swept by said Comptroller or by his directions
Viz'. For each Funnel of five Stories high one shillg. & 6d.
For each Funnel of four Stories high one shillg & 4d.
For each Funnel of three Stories high one shilK & 2d.
For all other Chimnies — One shilling
The said Comptroller to be Accountable to the Selectmen for all
Monies so paid to him & that said Comptroller shall give Bond to
[191.] the Town Treasurer for the payment of such Monies &
for the faithful discharge of his Office And in Case any Person
shall be unable to pay the sum directed to be paid for sweeping his
or her Chimneys as aforesaid, such Comptroller shall report the
Name of such Person to the Selectmen, who upon proper Inquiry,
may at their Discretion, charge the same on the Fund arising from
the general Assessment aforesaid
But for the more exact Observation of the By Laws relating to
Chimneys, It is hereby Voted and Ordered, That it shall be the
Duty of the Comptroller, carefully to inspect all the Chimnies in
said Town, where fires are usuallay kept, & See that they are faith-
fully swept, and if any Chimney shall take fire in three Weeks
After they have been swept by him or his Assistance, he shall.be
Subjected to pay a fine not exceeding Twenty shillings for each
Chimney nor less then ten shillings
The beforegoing By Law not to take effect untill a Comptroller
and Sweepers are appointed
The Article in the Warrant. Viz*.
" To Consider and determine what shall " be allowed the Assess-
ors for their services in that "Office," was again read, where-
upon Voted; that the Selectmen be directed to allow [192.]
the Assessors for their past services at the Rate of Nine Shillings
pDay
Voted, that all Matters and things which remain unfinished at
this Meeting be and hereby are referred over to the Next General
Town Meeting that may be called.
Moved & Voted, that the Thanks of the Town, be and hereby
are given to Benjamin Kent Esqr. — Moderator, for his good
Services in the Despatch given to the Business of the Meeting
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in publick
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 5th
Day of March Anno Domini 1783
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
The Honble. James Otis Esqr.
was chosen Moderator of this Meeting and took his Seat accord-
ingly
The Committee appointed by the Town the 5th of March last to
apply to a Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the 5th of March
[193.] Instant to perpetuate the memory of the horred
Massacre perpetrated on the evening of the fifth of March 1770 by
290 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
a Partj of Soldiers : under the Command of Cap'. Thomas Pres-
ton of the 29th. Regiment
Reported
That having met several times for the purpose mentioned in the
Town Vote, they have unanimously made choice of Dr. Thomas
Welch to deliver an Oration on the fifth of March Instant, who
had accordingly Accepted of that Service
The foregoing Report having been read — the same was accepted
by the Town
Upon a Motion the Town took into consideration, what would
be the best time to have the Oration pronounced, as also, what
place would be most suitable for the purpose — whereupon
Voted, that the Oration be delivered at the Old Brick Meeting
House, the Hall not being capacious enough to receive the Inhabi-
tants, that Attended upon the occasion also
Voted, that Col°. Hancock
Cap'. Parkman
Mr. Moses Grant
be a Committee to wait upon Doctr. Thomas Welsh and acquaint
him, that it is the desire [194.] of the Town, that the Oration
may be delivered at the Old Brick Meeting House at half past
12. O'Clock this day ; as also to ask leave of the Committee of
said Church, for the use of that Building
On a Motion Voted, that the Selectmen be directed, to order
the several bells in this Town to be tolled from one Quarter of
an Hour after Nine O'Clock this Evening untill 10. O: Clock
Adjourned to the Old Brick Meeting House £ past 12. O'Clock
according to Adjournment
The Town Met at the Old Brick Meeting House % past 12 O.
Clock according to Adjournment
The Committee appointed to wait on Dr. Thomas Welch, to ac-
quaint him with the Vote of the Town, respecting the time and
Place for the delivery of the Oration
Reported,
That said Gentleman was ready to comply with the Order of
the Town
An Oration to commemorate the horred Massacre of the 5th. of
March 1770 and to impress upon the Minds of the Citizens the
ruinous tendency of standing Armies being placed in Free and
Populous Cities &c was delivered by Dr. Thomas Welch [195.] to
a large and crouded Assembly, and received by them with great
Applause
On a Motion made Voted that
The Honblt'. James, Otis Esqr. Moderator
John Scollay Esqr.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Dr. Cooper
Tuttle Hubbard Esqr.
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
Mr. Elias Sigorney
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to wait upon Docf.
BOSTOX TOWN- RECORDS, 1783. 291
Thomas Welsh, and in the Name of the Town to thank him for
the Spirited and elegant Oration delivered by him at their request,
in commemoration of the horred Massacre perpetrated on the
Evening of the fifth of March 1770. by a Party of Soldiers of the
29th. Regiment under the Command of Cap'. Thomas Preston, and
to request of him a Copy thereof for the Press
A Petition of John Green one of the Persons wounded on the
Evening of the 5th. of March 1770 also the request of Mr. Patter-
son who lost the use of one of his Arms on that, memorable
Night — was read — and considered
A Collection was made for the aforenamed Persons amounting
to the Sum of and put into the hands of the Selectmen
to be distributed as they may Judge proper
[196.] The Town did not proceed as usua* to the choice of a
Committee to provide an Orator to deliver an Oration the 5th of
March next — the following Motion having been made by the
Town Clark — Viz1.
Whereas since the Institution of this Anniversary on the 5th of
March which has answared excellent purposes, a Signal Revolu-'
tion has been effected through the Favor of Heaven in the Gov-
ernment of our Country by the establishment of the Independance
of these United States of America : And whereas this Memorable
Event has induced many of the Inhabitants to make a Question
whether in our present situation it would not be for the public benefit
to exchange the present Institution for another of the same General
nature — such for instance as an Anneversary for celebrating the
glorious and happy Declaration of the Independance of the United
States of America, in which the Orator might consider, the steps
that led to this great Revolution, the distinguished Characters im-
ployed in effecting and maintaining it — the important and timely
aid these States received from an Alliance with his Most Christian
Majesty Louis XVI in consequence of this Declaration and while
under man}- difficulties in strugling with an inraged & cruel Enemy
to support and defend it — as also the superior advantages of a
Republican form of Government [197.] well Constituted &
Administered for preserving and promoting the Liberties and hap-
piness of Mankind ; and the necessity of Virtue & good Manners,
and of an Education that tends to promote them, in order to sup-
port such a Government, and to realize the Advantages it is
adopted to promote.
Therefore voted, that a Committee be Appointed by the Town
to consider this Matter at large and Report at the next May
Meeting *
On a Motion — Voted, that the consideration of this Motion be
referred to March Meeting
Then the Meeting was dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in publick
*[ "at the adjournment," in original paper.]
W. II. W.
292 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 10th.
Day of March Anno Domini 1783
Prayer was made by the Revd. John Eliot
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
Sundry Laws enjoined to be read at this Meeting, were accord-
ingly — read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting, and the same being
brought in and sorted it appeared, that
[198.] The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. was chosen Mod-
erator
The Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. having by a Letter to the
Selectmen acquainted them that his engagement in the Senate, put
it out of his power to give his Attendance at this Meeting
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for another Person, and the same being brought in and
sorted it Appeared that
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
was chosen Moderator, unanimously
William Cooper, was chosen Town Clerk for the year ensuing
and took the Oath of Office for the faithful discharge of his duty,
which Oath was Administred to him by Ezekiel Price Esqr.
The Town having determined by a Vote to choose seven Select-
men, the Inhabitants were then directed to withdraw, and bring
in their Votes for that Number, and the same being brought in
and sorted, it appeared that the Following Gentlemen Viz1.
John Scollay Esqr.
Cap'. Gustavus Fellows excused
Harbottle Dorr Esqr.
Nathan Frazier Esqr. excused
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Cap'. William Mackv
Tuttle HubbardEsq'.
were chose Selectmen for the year ensuing unanimously
[199. J The Inhabitants as directed by the Moderator, brought
in their Votes, for twelve Overseers of the Poor, and upon sorting
them it Appeared, that the
Houble. William Phillips Esqr.
Isaac Smith Esqr.
Mr. Jonathan Mason
Cap1. Samuel Partridge
Mr. Samuel Whitwell
Mr. John White
Edward Proctor Esqr.
William Powell Esqr.
John Sweetser Esqr.
Samuel Barret Esqr.
Mr. Nicholas Bowes
Joseph Webb Esqr.
were chosen Overseers of the Poor for the year ensuing.
Moved, that the consideration of the choice of Wardens be
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 293
referred to 4 oClock Afternoon and the Question being put, —
Passed in the Affermative
The Town brought in their Votes, for Sixteen Fire Wards,
and the same having been sorted, it Appeared that
John Scollay Esqr.
"William Cooper Esqr.
Francis Shaw Esqr.
Edward Proctor Esqr.
Caleb Davis Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Tileston
[2OO.] Cap1. Gustavous Fellows
Joseph Webb Esqr.
Mr. John Lowell
Major Thomas Melvill Esqr.
Jabez Hatch Esqr.
Cap1. Isaac Phillips
Josiah Waters Esqr.
Mr. Jacob Rodes
Cap1. Ebenezer Parsons
John Coffin Jones Esqr.
where chose Fire Wards for the ensuing Year
Nathan Frazier Esqr. having by a Letter directed to the Mod-
erator, acquainted the Town, that the Business he was engaged in
put it out of his power to Attend the Duty of a Selectman
It was Moved & Voted, that the Thanks of "the Town be and
herebj^ are given unto Nathan Frazier Esqr. for his Good &
faithful services as a Selectman of this Town for a Number of
years past. — Then the Meeting was Adjourned to 3 Clock P.M.
at 3 P.M. — the Town Met According to Adjournment
On a Motion, Made, Voted, that Collectors of Taxes be chosen
Seperate from Constables
This being the Time Assigned for bringing Votes, for twelve
Constables, the Inhabitants were directed to withdraw & bring in
their Votes, accordingly
[2O1.] The following Persons were Chosen Constables Viz'.
Mess". William Rogers excused
John Tufts excused
William Patten sworn
Samuel Whitney sworn
John Kennedy excused
John Butterfleld
Joseph Simpson excused
John Hunt excused
John Wheeler
Samuel Smith sworn
Patrick Conner excused
Robert Williams excused
were chosen Constables for the year ensuing
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Town Treasurer and the same being brought in and
sorted it appeared that
294 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Mr. Peter Boyer
was Chosen Town Treasurer for the Ensuing Year
This being the Time Assigned for the Consideration of the
choice of Wardens for the year ensuing — Jt was Moved that the
choice of Wardens be reffered to the General Town Meeting in
March next — & the Question being put passed in the Affermative
only eleven dissentiants the Meeting allowed to consist of upwards
Df 400 People
Moved, that the Vote now passed respecting Wardens, be pub-
lished in the several [2O2.] Boston News Papers, and the Ques-
tion being put passed in the Affirmative almost unanimously
Cap4. Gustavous Fellows having by a Letter directed to the Mod-
erator Acquainted the Town, that the Business he was engaged in
put it out of his Power to Attend the Duty of a Selectman
It was moved and Voted that the Thanks of the Town be and
hereby are given unto Cap*. Gustavous Fellows for his good and
Faithful Services as a Selectman of this Town for a Number of
Years past
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. " To Consider the Petition of
a great Number of the Inhabitants for the preventing or removal
of the incumbrances occasioned by the placing of Carts, paynyards,
stalls and benches on Dock Square, and in other Publick Places,
to the great interruption of Passangers, and the hazzard of the
Limbs & Lives of the Inhabitants ; and that some suitable Place
or Places may be -provided for the Accomodation of the Market
people "together with the Petition itself was read whereupon,
Voted that a Committee be appointed to take into consideration
this Petition and the Article in the Warrant at Large and make re-
port at the Adjournment of this Meeting
[2O3.] Voted, that
Dr. Charles Jarvis
Joseph Barrell Esqr.
Col°. Thomas Daws
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
Mr. Samuel Elliot
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Perez Morton Esqr.
be a Committee for the Purpose aforesaid, and that said Com-
mittee do also take into consideration other Nusances of the Town
and report at the same time
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw & bring in their
Votes for a County Treasurer, which was received and Sealed up
in Meeting & then delivered to Constable Smith to be by him
returned to the Court of General Sessions of the Peace at the next
Meeting
Agreeable to the Article in Warrant Viz'. — To consider a
Motion made on the 5th of March Ins1, for the exchange of the in-
stitution of the Anniversary for Another of a General Nature, for
Reasons in said Motion " the following Motion was made — Viz*.
Whereas -since the Institution of this Anniversary on the 5th of
March which has Answered excellent purposes, A Signal Revolu-
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 2(J5
tion has been effected through the Favour of Heaven in the Gov-
ernment of our Country by the establishment of the Indepeudance
of these [2O4.] United States of America : and whereas this
memorable event has induced many of the Inhabitants to make a
Question whether in our Present situation it would not be for the
Publick Benefit to exchange the present Institution for Another
of the same general Nature : such for instance As an Anniversary
for celebrating the glorious and happy Declaration of the Inde-
pendence of the United States of America in which the Orator
might consider the Steps that lead to this great Revolution, the
distinguished Carrecters imployed in effecting and maintaining it
the important & timely Aid these States received from an Alliance
with his most Christian Majesty Lewis XVI in consequence of this
declaration & while under many difficulties in strugling with an
enraged and cruel Enemy to support and defend it. As also the
superior Advantages of a Republican form of Government, well
constituted and Administred for preserving and promoting the
Liberties & happiness of Mankind and the necessity of Virtue and
good Manners & of an education that tends to promote them in
order to support such a Government and to realize the Advan-
tages it is adopted to promote
Whereupon the Question was put. Whether the same shall be
excepted
Passed in the A.ffirmative
also Voted that
Perez Morton Esq.
[2O5.] Col°. Tudor
Thomas Daws, Junr.
Joseph Barrell
Doctr. Charles Jarvis
be a Committee to consider this Matter at Large & Report at the
Adjournment
Moved that the Town now proceed to the choice of four Collect-
ors of Taxes for the year ensuing — and the Question being
put — Passed in the Affermative
Moved and Voted, that the Above Vote be recommitted and that
the choice of Collectors be referred to to Morrow Morning
Adjourned to Tuesday next being the eleventh of March Instant
10. O Clock in the Forenoon
Tuesday the 11th Day of March 10. O Clock in the Forenoon —
Met according to Adjournment
Mr. William McNeil
Mr. Edward How
where chose Surveyors of Hemp for the year eusuiug
Mess™. Joseph Buttler
Clement Collins Jur.
John Ballard Juur.
John Champney
Joseph Ballard
Jonathan Stodder
[2O6.] Edmond Ranger
296 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Abraham Howard
Benja. Page
Samuel Feuno
Samuel Dellaway
James Rogers
Thomas Uran
Heury Blaisdill
Samuel Dyer
Joseph Aynes [Ay res]
were chose Surveyors of Boards for the year ensuing
Mess". Daniel Brown
Jonathan Stoddard
John Neat
Samuel Todd
William Clough
were chosen Fence Viewers for the year ensuing
Messrs. Nathaniel Green
Samuel Bangs
Stephen Gore
Joseph Hayden
were Chose Sealers of Leather for the year ensuing
Mr. Adam Colson
was chosen Informer of Deer for the year ensuing
Messrs. Joseph Spear
Menassah Masters
Joshua Pico
[2O7.] Caleb Hayden
John Owen
Edmond Burd
Cap'. David Spear
Joseph Loring
Robert Hitchburne
Daniel Bell
Robert Brick
John McElary
were chosen Cullers of Staves for the year ensuing
Mess". George Hamlin ------ sworn
Samuel Curtis
were chose Haywards for the ensuing year
Mess". William McFadden excused
William Sharp
Jacob Edes
Josiah Simpson
were chose Hogreeves for the year ensuing
Ward
Mess™. John Cade ----- No. 1 excused
Thomas Stoddar - - - 2
Joseph Prince - - - - 3 declines
John Cogswell - - - - 4
Samuel Sumner - - - - 5
Jeremiah Bumstead - - 6 sworn
Ephrim Copeland - - - 7
John Kennedy - - - - 8
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 297
Zipheon Tbayer - - - 9 excused
Joseph Shed 10
George Langley - - 11
Peter Geyer - - - - 12
were chosen Scavingers for the Year ensuing
[3O8.] Mess". Thomas Green
John Skinner
were chose Assay Masters for the ensuing year
Mess". John White Esqr.
John Sweetzer Esqr.
John Lucas Esqr.
were chose Purchasers of Grain for the year ensuing and they are
desired and impowered to give all needful directions to the Keeper
of the Granary respecting the quantities of Grain to be sold, and
Affixing the prices thereof from time to time as Occasion shall
require ; and the said Committee are desired and directed to cause
all the Grain belonging to the Town to be ground at the New
Mills near the Mill Bridge
The Selectmen
were chosen Surveyors of the High Way for the year ensuing.
Messrs. John Lucas
Edward Tuckerman
Edward Edes
Samuel Smith
John Jenkins
were chosen Surveyors of Wheat and Flower for the year ensuing
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Committee of Correspondence, Inspection and Safety.
And the same being brought in and sorted it Appeared that
[2O9.~j Messrs. Nathaniel Barber
Edward Proctor Esqr.
Cap'. John Pulling
Ebenezer Hancok Esqr.
Cap'. Isaac Phillips
Samuel Ruggles Esqr.
Thomas Melville Esqr.
Mr. John Lucas excused
Abiel Ruddock Esqr.
were chosen a Committee of Correspondence Inspection & Safety,
for the year ensuing.
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw, and bring in their
Votes for four Collectors of Taxes, and the same having been
brought in and sorted, it appeared that
Benjamin Sumner Jur. ------ 96 Votes
James Thompson ---120
Thomas Bay ley - --------153
Alexander Thomas 115
were chosen Collectors of Taxes for the yeur ensuing.
Voted, that two and one half p Cent be and hereby is allowed to
the Persons that shall be chose Collectors of Taxes for the year
ensuing, on all such sums of Money as they shall Collect, pro-
vided that they shall conform to the Act and Resolutions of the
298 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
General Assembly and the Votes of this Town ; which Premium
appears to be Just and equitable and an Ample Allowance to the
Collectors to encourage them to discharge their duty with deligence
and [21O.] Fidelity ; provided also that each of said Collectors
give Bond with sufficient Sureties to the Satisfaction of the
Selectmen, for the faithfull discharge of their Duty in said Office
and complying with this Vote
Moved and Voted, that the Collectors of Taxes be and hereby
are enjoined to pay into the County and Town Treasuries in pro-
portion as they shall pay into the State Treasuery from Time to
Time
The Inhabitants were desired to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for two Selectmen in the Room of Nathan Frazier Esqr. &
Cap1. Gustavious Fellows, and the Same having been brought in
and sorted it Appeared, that
Deacon Thomas Greenough
David Jeffries Esqr.
were chosen Selectmen for the year ensuing
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for seven Assessors, and the same being brought in and
sorted, it appeared that
Mess". William Lowder
Moses May
John R. Sigoney
John Pulling
Barthw. Kneeland
Samuel Ruggles Esqr.
Cap1. William Fleet
were chosen Assessors for the Year ensuing
[211.] Voted, that the Assessors be and hereby are empow-
ered and directed to set for such Abatements of Taxes, as they
shall Judge reasonable ten days following the date and delivery
of the Tax Bills (Lords days excepted) and no longer saving that
they be allowed to set two days the last Week in February for the
Abatement of the Taxes of such Persons as had not an oppertun-
ity of applying in the Above limitted Time by reason of their
being out of the Commonwealth, or any other unavoidable hin-
drance, at which time they are also Allowed and impowered to
Abate the Taxes of such Persons as may have died Insolvent
before the said time —
The Article in the Warrant, relative to making Provision for
paying the Town Creditors Viz'. "Whether the Town will make
provision for paying the principal and Interest due to such of their
Creditors as are in want of their Monies " — being read — where-
upon
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be impowered and directed to
allow the Several Creditors of the Town who have lent Monies to
the Town, Interest and compound Interest on the Monies lent
Voted, that 4 °Clock be Assigned for the consideration of the
Articles in the Warrant relative to Lands on the Neck
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 299
And after it for the consideration of the Articles in the Warrant
relative to new Emission Monies
[212.] The Article in the Warrant. Viz'. " To consider,
weather any measures shall be taken for the better regulation of
the Cows going on the Common of this Town " — was read where-
upon
Voted, that this Matter be reffered to the Selectmen, and they
are hereby Authorised and impowered to raise the Sum required
for providing Bulls &c to Six Shillings for every Cow going on
the Common
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. " Wether the Selectmen in
their settling with the Town Clerk may not Allow him on Account
of the high price of the Necessarys of Life, in proportion with
what has been allowed the Other Town Officers was read — where-
upon
Voted, that Joseph Barrell Esqr.
Mr. John Lowell
Col°. Joseph Webb
be a Committee to consider this Matter and Town Clerks, Ac-
counts, and report at the Adjournment
Then the Meeting was Adjourned to 3 Clock in the Afternoon.
At 3 "Clock P: M met according to Adjournment
[213.] The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring
in their Votes for Six Constables and the same being brought in
and Sorted it Appeared that the following Persons were chose
Viz'. Mess". John Kemp excused
Alexander Mc. Cloud Sworn
Abner Ruinnil - - d°.
Rufus Bent -------- d°.
George Hamlin ------- d°.
Isaac Wendell ------- d°.
were chosen Constables for the ensuing year
The following Persons were chosen Clerks of the Market for the
year ensuing
Viz1. Cap'. John Wi'nslow sworn
Mr. Robert McNiel
Mr. Nathan Spear sworn
Mr. William Hyslop , d°.
Mr. Thomas K. Jones
Samuel Deming --------- sworn
Mr. Lewis Carnes ---------- d°.
Mr. John Brown d°.
Mr. William Payne d°.
Mr. John Amory --------- d°.
Mr. William Morrill d°.
Mr. Samuel Gould
Voted, that Major Thomas Melvill excus'd
Edward Payne Esqr.
Herman Brimmer Esqr.
Edward Green Esqr.
Charles Miller Esqr.
Samuel Ruggles Esqr.
300 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
[214.] be and hereby are Appointed a Committee to Audit Ac-
compts of Mr. Peter Boyer Treasurer, and also the Accompt of the
Overseers of the Poor and the said Committee are impowered
when they shall Audit said Accompts, to allow of such of the
Overseers as shall have Advanced Monies for the Relief of the
Poor, Interest on all such Sums from the Time so Advanced
untill they have Audited said Accompts ; and they are also desired
to report from time to time a State of the Treasurey respecting its
debts and credits and on any Matter that they may think proper
And the Committee are also directed to examine the Draughts
of the Selectmen
A Motion was made that the consideration of Salaries and
Grants be refferred over to the General Town Meeting in
May Next. — and the Question being put it Passed in the Af-
fermative.
The Selectmen Reported, on the Visitation of the Schools the
last Year and were Appointed Visitors of the Schools the present
Year.
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. " Whether the Lands on the
Neck shall be leased for a Certain time, or otherwise improved by
the Town" — was read wereupon moved that the consideration of
this Article be reffered [215.] to the General Town Meeting in
May Next, — and the Question being put passed in the Negative
It was then Moved & Voted, that a Committee be Appointed to
take this Article into consideration and Report at the Adjourn-
ment
Voted, that
Col°. Nath1. Barber
Col°. Wm. Tudor
Joseph Barrell Esqr. excused
Cap'. John Ballard
John Lucas Esqr.
Col°. Dawes — Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose Aforesaid
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. " Whether the Town Treasurer
shall -be impowered to dispose of the whole or any part of the
Emission Monies in the Treasurey: — was oread, whereupon
Moved,
That the Town Treasurer be and he hereby is Authorised and
impowered to dispose of the New Emission Money in the Treasurey
on the best Terms he can
And the Question being put Passed in the Affermative
Moved, when this Meeting is Adjourned it shall be to Tuesday
Fortnight at 3'O Clock P.M being the 25 — Ins*.
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
[216.] Tuesday March 25th— 3. O Clock in the Afternoon —
Town met according to Adjournment
On a Motion Voted, that one other Person be Added to the four
Hogreeves chosen for the Year ensuing — whereupon
Mr. John Skinner
was chosen a Hogreeve for the year ensuing
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 301
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for one Constable — and the same being brought in and
Sorted, it Appeared that
Mr. Robert Brick
was chosen a Constable for the year ensuing
Mr. Joseph Prince chosen one of the Scaving'ers for Ward N°. 3.
having desired the Town to excuse him from serving in that Office,
he was accordingly excused.
Mr. Elkanah Hayden
was chosen a Scavinger for the year ensuing for Ward N°. 3.
Moved and Voted, that one more be Added to the Persons
chosen Surveyors of Boards
Mr. William Alexander
was chosen a Surveyor of Boards for the year ensuing
The Committee on the Article in the Warrf. Viz'. " To con-
sider whether the Selectmen in their settling with the Town Clark
may not allow him [217.] on Account of the high price of the
Necessaries of Life, in proportion with what has been allowed the
Other Town Officers," — Reported as follows, Viz1. The Com-
mittee Appointed by the Town for the purposes Above mentioned,
are fully of Opinion that the Selectmen in Settling with the Town
Clerk, allow him on Account of the high prices of the Necessaries
of Life, in proportion with what has been allowed the School-
masters
Joseph Barrel p Order
The foregoing Report having been read and considered — the
Question was put — Whether the same shall be accepted
Passed in the Affirmative
The Committee Appointed to devise the Necessary Means of
removing the disorders of the Market and other Nuisances, beg
Leave to report.
Ist That for the future in their Opinion it will be highly for the
Interest of the Inhabitants in General, that proper places be
Assigned for the different Markets for Wood, Hay, &c, as the
Square contigueous to Faneuil Hall delinated in the Annexed plan,
be still Approbiated [si'c] as the Most convenient spot for the great
Market of Flesh, Vegetables, &c.
2d. That the Part of Common Street between the Grainery and
the North end of the Burying Ground Adjoining; as also the Old
North Square, be the Places for the Wood Marketts for all the
Wood brought by land into this Town for Sale.
[218.] 3dly That the Space near Olivers Dock be Assigned as
a Markett place for Hay, that is for all hay brought by Land for
Sale into this Town.
4thly That the dock be filled up as far as the swing Bridge and if
an}' Private Property be injured the owners thereof be compen-
sated for their loss.
5thly. That an inspector of the Marketts be annually Chosen by the
Town to see the several by Laws and Orders of the Town properly
enforced as far as they respect the Marketts, and that this Officer
bo allowed an Adequate reward for his Services.
302 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
6th17. That the following by Laws be recommended to the Town
as of indispensible Necessity, to give effect to the Preceding
regulations.
7thly That the Scavengers be enjoined by the Town to the utmost
to exert the Power with which they are invested for the suppression
& preventi6n of those Nuisances which at present are a disgrace
to our Police, and if not removed, by contaminating the Air, must
contribute to produce the Most fatal disorders among the In-
habitants. — And in Order the more effectually to remedy this
mischief It is earnestly enjoined upon the Inhabitants to give the
earliest information to the proper Officers of all or any Nuisances
that the proper and legal Methods may be forthwith taken for
their removal. —
[219.] By Laws, for the Appointment and Regulation, of the
several Markett places in the Town of Boston.
Whereas, it frequently happens that Persons, who vend Hay,
Wood, Meat, Vegetables, and other Articles of Supplies in this
Town, Assemble and stand with their Carts, Teams, Sleds,
Sleighs, Waggons & Horses, in some or Other of the Publick
Streets, to the great annoyance of the Neighbourhood where such
stand is made, and to the Danger of the Lives and Limbs of those
who Attempt to pass them : And whereas it is highly convenient
and necessary for the General Good, that in all Populous Towns,
the Publick Stree ts thereof should be freely passable at all times,
and that certain Publick places, be set apart for the Stand of
those who suppty the Inhabitants thereof with Provisions & other
Articles of Consumption.
It is therefor Voted, and Ordered. — That the lower floor of
Faneuil Hall and the Land around the same (as laid out and
marked in A plan this day Approved and Adopted by the Town)
be the Common Markett place for the Sail of all kinds of Meat,
Vegetables or Grain &c. — the several parts thereof to be used
and improved respectively for the purposes mentioned in the
aforesaid plan [22O.] And whoever shall use or improve any
part of said Markett place to a different purpose than is Assigned
in said plan After being directed by the Inspector of the Markets
to his proper place, and without special permission first had &
Obtained from the Inspector of the Markett, shall forfit and pay
the Sum of Six shillings for every such Offence.
And if any Person or Persons bringing Meat, Vegetables or
Grain to Markett shall be found standing in any other Publick
Street of the Town, with his or their Team, Cart, Sled, Sleigh,
Waggon, or Horse with Meat, Vegetables, or Grain, therewith
(except while being stopt'd by some person offering to purchase
the same or detained by some accident) he shall forfit and pay the
Sum of Eight shillings for every such Offence.
2d It is further Ordered, That Common Street so called extending
from the Granary to the North End of the Common Burying Place
on the West Side of said Street, and also the Old North Square so
called, be and they are hereby set apart and known as Wood
Marketts, where it shall be lawful for all Persons bringing Wood,
loads of barrells Empty or full, or Hoops to Marketts to Assemble
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 303
a-nd stand with their Teams, Carts, Sleds & Waggons for the pur-
pose of vending the Same [221.] And if any Person or Persons,
bringing Wood, Hoops, or Empty or full Barrells to Market shall
be found, standing in any Other Publick Streets of the Town with his
or their Team, Cart, Sled, or Waggon loaded with any of the afore-
said Articles (except while being stoped by some persons offering
to Purchase the Same, 6r detained by some Accident) he shall
forfit & pay the Sum of Ten shillings for every such offence.
3d. And it is further Ordered, That the Open space at the bottom
of Water Street near Olivers Dock, be and it hereby is set apart
and Appropriated as a Hay Markett ; where it shall be Lawf ull
for all Persons bringing Hay to Markett to Assemble and stand
with their Teams, Carts, Sleds and Waggons for the purpose of
vending the Same. — And if any Person or Persons shall be found
standing in any other Streets of the Town, with his or their
Team, Cart, Sled or Waggon loaded with Hay (excepting at the
place of weighing, & except while being Stopt'd by some Persons
offering to purchase the same, or detained by some Accident) he
shall forfit and pay the Sum of Twelve shillings for every such
Offence. —
4th. It is further Ordered. — That no Person, or Persons,
bringing Meat, Vegetables, Grain, Wood, Hay or any other
Articles of Supplies [232.] to Market shall presume to stop
and sell or Offer for sale any such Articles within the Limits
of Dock Square or in any of the Avenues or Streets leading
directly from State Street now so called into the Common Market
place or Dock Square aforesaid, under the Penalty of six shill-
ings for every such Offence
And in order that Persons may not be encouraged & Counte-
nanced in the Violation of the aforesaid Orders & By Laws.
5thly. It is further Ordered — That every Person Inhabiting
this Town, who shall buy or Offer to buy any Meats, Vegetables
Grain, Wood, Hay or any other Articles of Supplies, brought to
Market for Sale of any Person or Persons standing and Offering
the same for Sale in any other Streets or parts of this Town than
is herein respectively Assigned them for that purpose, or shall buy
or offer to buy any of said Articles of any Person or Persons
whatsoever within the limits of Dock Square or in any of the
Avenues or Streets leading directly from State Street into the
Common Market place or Dock Square Aforesaid, shall forfit and
pay the Sum of Six shillings for every such Offence.
And to the end that the foregoing Orders & By-Laws may not
like others heretofore be [223.] rendered ineffectual nugatory
by Remissness and inattention to the execution thereof — but be
carried into rigorous Effect.
6thlj. It is hereby further Ordered, That there be Annually chosen
from among the Inhabitants of the Town some Active Spirited and
faithfull Person, who shall be called the Inspector of the Markets,
whose Duty it shall be to carry the severall By-Laws and Orders
of the Town touching the arrangement of the severall Markets
into constant Effect — And in Order thereto he shall make it his
daily employment to pass through the several Market Places, the
304 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Avenues leading thereto, and the Several Publick Streets : and if the
Inspector of the Markets shall find any Person or Persons, stand-
ing with his or their Carts, Teames, Sleds, Sleighs, Waggons or
Horses loaded with meats, Vegetables, Grain, Wood, Hay &c.
as aforesaid in any of the Streets in Violation of the aforesaid
By-Law, upon view thereof he shall Order & direct the Offender
to ' Repair to the Market place Assigned for the Sale of the
Articles he may have & on his refusal, the said Inspector of the
Marketts shall forthwith Complain against such Persons to some
[224.] Justice of the Piece that he may find Agreeable to the
foregoing By-Laws. — And it shall be the Duty of the said
Inspector of the Markets to complain in Manner as aforesaid
against all Breaches of An}' of the Aforesaid By-Laws which shall
come to his knowledge, either by his own View, or the Informa-
tion of any other Citizen — And it shall further be the Duty of
said Inspector of the Markets, to keep the several Market
places continually clean and free from all kinds of filth & Dirt ;
and to remove all Nusances therefrom.
7th. And to the end that said Inspector of the Market may be
induced to perform his Duty with chearfullness and Integrity, It is
Ordered that he shall have an Adequate and reasonable reward
for his Service.
8th. It is further Ordered, That all Penalties & forfeitures
Arising by any breaches of the foregoing By-Laws, shall go and
be to the use of the Town, and be Approbiated to the support and
maintance of the Several Markets, aforesaid — By Order of the
Committee.
CHARLES JARVIS
The foregoing Report having been read and considered Para-
graph by Paragraph ; was Accepted by the Town & the Plan
Mentioned in said Report was Adopted by the Town.
[225.] Moved & Voted, that a Committee be Appointed to
carry this Report into Execution
Also Voted, that
Charles Jarvis Esqr.
Joseph Barrell Esqr.
Thomas Daws Esqr.
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
Mr. Samuel Elliot (excused)
Ezekiel Price Esqr. excused
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid & they are also Au-
thorised and impowered to confir with the Abutters on the Dock
relative to the tittle & property of the Land or any priviledges in
the said Dock, as also with Respect to any Compensation.
The Committee relative to Lands on the Neck having Reported,
it was moved & Voted, that the consideration of said Report be
referred to next May Meeting, and that the Town be then Notified
thereof in the Warrant then to be essued for said Meeting
The Committee Appointed to consider a late Motion for the
Change of the Institution of the Annaversary on the 5th. of March,
reported as follows Viz'.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 305
Whereas the Annual Celebration of the Boston Massacre on the
5th. of March 1770, by the Institution of a Publick Oration
[226.] has been found to be of eminent Advantage to the Cause
of America in disseminating the Principles of Virtue and Patriot-
ism among her Citizens ; And whereas the immediate Motives
which induced the commemoration of that day, do now no longer
exist in their primitive force ; while the Benefits resulting from the
Institution to, may and ought to be forever preserved, by exchang-
ing that Anniversary for Another, the foundation of which will
last as long as time endures. It is therefore Resolved, that the
Celebration of the fifth of March from henceforwards shall cease ;
and that instead thereof the Anniversary of the 4th. Day of July
A.D. 1776 (a Day ever memorable in the Annals of this Country
for the declaration of our Independance) shall be constantly
celebrated by the Delivery of a Publick Oration, in such place as
the Town shall determine to be most convenient for the purpose —
In which the Orator shall consider the feelings, manners &principles
which led to this great National Event as, well as the important
and f\appy EFFECTS whether general or domestick, which already
have, and will forever continue to flow from this Auspicious
Epoch. —
The foregoing Report having been read & considered, it was
Voted, that the same be [227.] Accepted, And that a Committee
be now Appointed to provide an Orator to deliver an Oration on
the 4th of July Next Agreeable to said report, Also. — Voted, that
Perez Morton Esqr.
, Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr.
Honble. James Sullivan Esqr.
William Tudor Esqr.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose Aforesaid
John Kemp chosen a Constable for the year ensuing having de-
sired to be excused from serving in that Office he was Accordingly
excused.
Moved, that when this Meeting is Adjourned it be to next
Monday sennight — 3 °Clock P.M. — And it was Adjourned
Accordingly
Monday the 7th. Day of April 3 O Clock Afternoon — Town met
according to Adjournment
Ezekiel Price Esqr. in the Chair
Mr. John Cade chosen Scavinger for Ward N°. 1 for the ensuing
year having desired, to be excused from serving in that Office —
he was accordingly excused
Mr. Samuel Clough
was chosen a Scavinger for the ensuing year for Ward N° 1
[228.] Ezekiel Price Esqr. one of the Committee relative to
Incumbrances on the Dock & having desired to be excused from
serving he was accordingly excused
Deacon Newel
was appointed one of the Committee relative to the Dock in the
room of Mr. Price
306 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
t The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for one Constable and the same having been brought in and
sorted it Appeared that
Mr. Calvin White — excused
was chosen Constable for the year ensuing
Moved and seconded, that a Committee be now Appointed to
consider and Report proper Instructions for the Committee of
Correspondence Inspection and Safety of this Town — After some
debate the Question was put Viz1. Whether such a Committee shall
be now Appointed by the Town — And the Question being ac-
cordingly put — Passed in the Affermative
Voted, that the
Honble. Sam1. Adams Esqr.
Honble. James Otis Es"qr.
Joseph Greenleaf Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
1229.1 Mr. William McFadden
chosen a Hogreeve for the year ensuing having desired to be ex-
cused from Serving in that Office, he was accordingly — excused,
Mr. Timothy Conner
was chosen Hogreeve for the Year ensuing
Mr. Calvin White
chosen one of the Constables for the year having desired to be ex-
cused from serving in that Office, he was accordingly excused by
the Town
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for one Constable, but no Votes were brought in
The Committee Appointed to Consider what directions were
necessary to be given the Committee of Correspondence, Inspec-
tion and Safety — Reported the following Resolve — Viz*.
Whereas by a Resolve of the Legislature of this Commonwealth
passed on the thirteenth of February Seventeen hundred seventy
Six, the several Towns were directed and impowered at their
Annuale Meetings in March to choose a Committee of Correspond-
ence Inspection and Safety, whose bussiness (among other things)
is to Communicate matters of Importance to Committees of the
Same denominations, to any Other Town County or States, or to
the General Assembly or Council. And whereas the present Cir-
cumstances of the United States require that Committees so Ap-
pointed should use their utmost industry & Care [33O.] to
effect the great & important purposes of their Appointment, at a
time when interest is making for the readmitting Absentees and
Conspirators to return into this and other of the United States —
therefor
Resolved — That This Town will at all times (as they have
done) to the utmost of their power, oppose every Enemy to the
Just Rights and Liberties of Mankind : And that after so wicked
a Conspiracy against those Rights and Liberties by certain ,In-
grates, Most of them Natives of these States, and who have been
Refugees and declared Traitors to their Country — It is the Opin-
ion of this Town, that they ought never to be suffered to return,
but be excluded from having Lot or Portion among us
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 307
And the Committee of Correspondence are hereby requested as
by the Law of this Commonwealth they are fully impowered, to
write to the Several Towns, in this Commonwealth, and desire
them to come into the same or Similar Resolves, if they shall
think fit
The foregoing Report having been read and Considered the
Question was put — Viz1. Whether this Report shall be accepted —
Passed in the Affirmative
It was then moved and Voted that the aforegoing Resolves or
Report of the Committee [231.] be published in the Publick
News Papers
Moved & Voted, that when this Meeting shall be Adjourned, it
shall be to the same Day of the May Meeting. 3. O Clock in the
Afternoon —
And the Meeting was accordingly
Adjourned
At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town of Boston
of twenty one Years of Age & upwards qualified as the Constitu-
tion prescribes, and legally warned in Publick Town Meeting
Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 7th. Day of April
Anno Domini 1783
Prayer was made by the Revd. Joseph Eckly
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
Paragraphs of the Constitution or form of Goverment relative
to the choice of Governor Lieve4. Governor and Six Senators, for
the County of Suffolk were also read
On a Motion Voted,
That the Town will now come to the choice of a Governor
Lievetenant Governor and six Senators for the County of Suffolk
[x332.] It was then declared by the Selectmen that no Votes
would be received but such as are unfolded, and that they Pur-
pose the Poll should be closed at One O Clock
It was then moved and Voted, that the Bells in the Town be set
a ringing at half past twelve O'Clock
Persons Voted for as Governor with the numbers of Votes for
each Person. Viz*. His Excellency John Hancock Esqr. seven
hundred & forty seven Votes — Persons
Voted, for as Governor
Votes.
Honble. James Bowdoin Esqr. 60
Honblc. Benjamin Lincoln Esqr. 52
Persons Voted, for as Lieutenant Governor with the Number of
Votes for each Person, Viz'.
Votes.
His Honor Thomas Cushing Esqr. . 724
Honble. Elbridge Gerry Esqr. 105
Honble. Azor Orne Esqr. - 1
Honble. James Warren Esqr. 2
Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. - - 1
Persons Voted, for as Senators for the County of Suffolk, with
the number of Votes for each Person — Viz1.
308 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Votes.
Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. 823
Honble Jeremiah Powell Esqr. 732
[233.] Honble. Caleb Davis Esqr. 812
Honble. Cotton Tufts Esqr. 816
Honble. Jabez Fisher Esqr. 704
Ebenezer Wales Esqr. -- 785
Honble. John Pitts p:sqr. 176
Honble. Samuel Dexter -------- 125
Honble. Samuel Nyles 23
Honble. Robert T. Payne 1
Honble. James Sullivan 10
Honble. Benjamin Austin Esqr. ----- 9
Honble. William Phillips 21
Honble. Benjamin White Esqr. 4
Honble. James Otis Esqr. 6
John Lowel Esqr. 3
John Rowe Esqr. --- 7
Samuel Barret Esqr. -- ------ 2
John Barret Esqr. 2
Richard Cranch Esqr. -------- g
Thomas Daws Esqr. 3
Solomon Lovel Esqr. -------- 4
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr. 1
Attested Copies of the Persons Voted for as Governor Luive-
tanant Governor & Senators for the County of Suffolk, were com-
mitted to the Secretary of this Commonwealth, and the Inclosures
sealed up in Town Meeting, Superscribed as follows. Viz'.
For
John Avery Junr. Esqr.
Secretary of the Commonwealth
of Massachusetts
[234.] The Number of Votes of the Town of Boston for a
Governor Lievetenant Governor and Six Senators for the County
of Suffolk Certified within and sealed up in Town Meeting
Then the Meeting was
disolved
At an Adjournment of the March Meeting to this Day, the In-
habitants met according to Adjournment at 3. O'Clock Afternoon
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
in the Chair
Mr. Zipheon Thayer chosen one of the Scavingers for the year
ensuing having desired the Town to Excuse him from serving in
that Office, he was accordingly excused
Mr. Christopher Clark — (excused) — was chosen a Scavinger
for the year ensuing.
Mr. Clark having appeared and prayed the Town to excuse him
from serving in that Office the Year ensuing — he was accordingly
excused
Cap1. Gilbert W. Speakman — (Sworn) — was chosen a Scavin-
ger for the Year ensuing for Ward N°. 9
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 309
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes, for one Constable — and the same having been brought in
and sorted it appeared that
Mr. Earth0. Broders
was chosen a Constable for the Year ensuing
[235.] Moved and Voted, that all Matters and things which
remain unfinished at this Meeting be and they hereby are referred
over to the May Meeting
Moved & Voted, that the thanks of the Town be and hereby
are given to Ezekiel Price Esqr. for his good services as Moderator
Then the Meeting was dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders & Other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in publick Town .
Meeting Assembled at Fauieul Hall on Tuesday the 6th Day of
May Anno Domini 1783 10. O'Clock in the Forenoon
Prayer was made by the Revd. Mr. Clark
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
That part of the Constitution or Form of Government which
relates to the choice of Representatives — read
Sundry Laws to be read at the May Meeting — were accordingly
— read
The Town having determined to choose Seven Persons to Rep-
resent them in the General Court of Massachusetts to be held at
the State House in Boston [236.] upon the last Wednesday of
May Current Agreeable to the Constitution or Frame of Govern-
ment of the Massachusetts — The Inhabitants were accordingly
directed to withdraw and bring in their Votes for Seven Repre-
sentatives, and then it was declared by the Selectmen, that no
Votes would be received, but such as are unfolded, and that they
purpose the Poll shall be closed at twelve O. Clock
The Votes being brought in for Seven Representatives, the
Number of the same were found to be three hundred seventy eight
— and upon sorting them it Appeared that the following Gentel-
men were chosen by a Majority of said Votes — Viz'.
Votes
The Honble. William Phillips Esqr. 337
Honble. John Pitts Esqr. 310
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr. 264
Honble. Caleb Davis Esqr. - - - - 303
Thomas Daws Esqr. - 361
Thomas Walley Esqr. 225
Honble. James Sullivan Esqr. 244
Adjourned to Four O Clock in the Afternoon
4 O'Clock in the Afternoon Town met according to Adjourn-
ment
The choice of Representatives [237.] being over and declared
by the Selectmen the Inhabitants, were directed to withdraw and
bring in their Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting in order that
the Town may proceed in transacting the other Affairs mentioned
310 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
in the Warrant; accordingly the Inhabitants withdrew and brought
in their Votes, and upon sorting them it Appeared, that
Ezekiel Price Esqr. — (excused)
was chosen Moderator.
Mr. Price having informed the Town that he was prevented
from giving his Attendance the Inhabitants were directed to with-
draw and bring in their Votes, for another Moderator and the
same being brought in and sorted it appeared that
Thomas Daws Esqr.
was chosen Moderator of the Meeting
Moved and Voted, that a Comittee be now chosen to draw up
and Report at the Adjournment of this Meeting a Draught of In-
structions for the Gentlemen who Represent this Town in the
General Assembly.
Voted, that the Honble. Sam: Adams Esqr.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
Honble. James Lovel Esqr.
[238.] Dr. Charles Jarvis
Joseph Greenleaf Esqr.
be appointed a Committee for the purpose aforesaid.
Mr. Thomas Walley chosen one of our Representatives in the
General Court having in writing declined Serving as a Represent-
ative he was accordingly excused by the Town.
The Moderator lade before the Town a Letter he had received
from the Honble. William Philips Esqr. — which was read.
The Committee relative to Lands on the Neck, being Appointed
by the Town to consider the Situation of said Lands, and what
improvement can be made of these Reported — and the said Re-
port having been read & considered, and also announced by the
Town was Accepted as follows Viz*.
That the Selectmen be impowered to lease (for as short a time
as they can agree on) to Mr. Nathaniel Curtis or any other person
a Piece of Beach Land measuring Ninety five feet more or less in
length and lying between the Land and Wharff of said Curtis and
the Northeast Corner of the Fortification and such part of the
Land Adjoining as the Selectmen shall think proper on condition
that such Persons shall Covenant to Erect a Subestantial Sea Wall
of Stone, five feet [239.] high with a good Capston Top, to run
from said Curtis's ; Wharff to the Northeast Corner aforesaid, and
be filled in with dirt so as to level the Ground from said Wall to
the Street, and have the same compleated by the first Day of No-
vember next ensuing
That it is of immediate importance to the preservation of the
Lands remaining, on the Easterly side of the Neck that a Stone
Wall be built as soon as possible to extend from the Southerly
Corner of the Wood Work of the Fortification to the head of
the Dam containing About one Thousand feet in Length, and
that all the Ground within said Wall be made level with the
Pavement.
And in order to have this most necessary work speedily and
effectually executed, the Town impower the Selectmen to lay out
the Lands included in the Above Boundaries into Lots of Sixty
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 311
feet each in Front and running to said Wall, and to execute
Sufficient Deeds of Bargain and Sale of every other of said Lots
to such Person, or Persons as will contracte for themselves and
Heirs to Erect and forever maintain said Wall, and preserve the
Ground lying within said Limits from Decay.
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. — Whether the Town will take
any other or further Measures for preventing or removing [24O.]
any Incumbrances or Nusances as well on the Common as in the
Streets Lanes or High Ways of the Town was read — whereupon.
Voted, that W'". Tudor (excused)
Honble. James Sullivan Esqr.
Josiah Waters
Mr. John Lowel -------- excused
Tho8. Daws Junr. Esqr.
be and hereby are Appointed a Committee for the purpose afore-
said and they hereby are Authorised and impowered to Confer
with the Abutors on the Town Dock relative to the Title and
Property of the Lands, or any Privileges in the said Dock, as also
with respect to any Compensation — And to Report at the
Adjournment of this Meeting
Mr. Samuel Eliot Appointed one of the Committee for filling up
the Dock having desired the Town to excuse him from serving on
that Committee he was accordingly excused.
Mr. Henry Prentice was chosen one of the Committee for the
purpose aforesaid
Moved that the foregoing Committee for filling up the Dock - -
Viz'.
Charles Jarvis Esqr.
Joseph Barrel Esqr.
Thomas Dawes Esqr.
T241.] Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
Deacon Timothy Newell
Mr. Henry Prentice
be desired to proceed in that Business, and in making the Head
and carrying out the Draines which run into the Dock, in Order
for the immediate filling up the same upon the best terms that
may be ; and also fixing the Bails and Posts for the better accom-
modation of the Market People ; and that the Expencies of the
same be paid out of the next Town Tax.
And the Question being Accordingly put — Passed in the
Affermative.
Moved and Voted, that the Committee Appointed to prepare a
Draught of Instructions for the Gentlemen who Represent this
Town in the General Court ; have an Article in said Draught,
Viz1. — That when the Representatives are met in General Court
they pray leave of the House in behalf of the Town, to bring in a
Bill for removing Newsauces and Incumbrances from Dock Square
and elsewhere, and also regulating the Market.
Moved, and Voted, that the Selectmen be desired to Notefy
in the News Papers the Adjournment of this Meeting, at which it
will be considered whether the Town will then proceed to the
312 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Choice of [242.] two Representatives in the room of the Gentel-
men who have resigned or declined serving
Adjourned to Tuesday next being the 13th. Day of May, 10.
O Clock in the Forenoon
May 13th. 10. O Clock Forenoon Met According to Adjournment.
The Selectmen presided
The Town took into consideration
Whether a Gentelman should now be chosen to Represent the
Town in the General Assembly of this Commonwealth in the room
of Mr. Thomas Walley who has declined serving — and it having
been determined to choose one Gentelman in the Room of the said
Mr. Walley who has resigned — It was then moved that the choice
of a Representative be reff erred to the Afternoon , and that it is
proposed that the Poll be closed at 4 O Clock Afternoon.
Col°. Daws took the Chair.
The Committee appointed to prepare & to Audit Accounts of Mr.
Boyer Town Treasurer — Reported and the Report having been
read, it was moved and Voted, that this Report be recommitted.
[243.] The Committee Appointed to prepare a Draught of
Instructions to the Geutelmen who Represent the Town in the
General Court Reported a Draught, which being read, it was
moved and Voted, that the same be referred for consideration to
the Afternoon.
Adjourned to 3 O'Clock in the Afternoon
3. O'Clock in the Afternoon Met according to Adjournment.
The Selectmen presided
Moved & Voted, that it be a rule at the present Meeting, that
all those Persons who give in their Votes for a Representative,
shall enter the Hall and there rernaine untill the Poll shall be closed.
Voted, that the Vote passed in the Morning proposing that the
Poll be closed at 4. O'Clock be reconsidered and it is proposed that
the Poll for the choice of a Representative be closed at 5. O: Clock
this Afternoon.
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for one Representative.
The Votes, being brought in for one Representative the number
of the same were found to be One hundred & fourteen — and upon
sorting them it Appeared that
John Rowe Esqr.
Votes.
was chosen by a Majority of Votes ----59
[244.] The business relative to the choice of a Representa-
tive being over
Col°. Daws
took the Chair.
The Report of Committee for draughting Instructions to the
Gentelmen chosen to Represent this Town in the General Court
again taken up — and the Draught of Instructions having been
considered paragraph by paragraph — was accepted by the Town,
and are as follows. Viz1.
BOSTON Towx RECORDS, 1783. 313
Gentelmen
Having made choice of you to Represent this Town
in the General Court the year ensuing, We confide in your Integ-
rity and good Understanding to conduct the Publick Affairs in our
Behalf, in such Manner as to promote the Interest and Safety of
the Commonwealth at Large and of this Metropolis in particular. It
is nevertheless our unalienable Right to communicate to you our
.Sentiments; and when we shall judge it necessary or convenient to
give you our Instructions on any Special Matter, and We expect you
will hold yourselves at all times bound to Attend to and to [245.]
Observe them. You will constantly bear it on your Minds, that
this Commonwealth is free Sovereign and Independent ; and that it
retains every Power Jurisdiction and Right which is not by the
Confederation or may not hereafter by the People, be expressly
delegated to the United States in Congress Assembled — You will
therefore conceive it to be your bounden Duty in your legislative
Capacity, to exercise the Powers of the Commonwealth vested in
you with your utmost Wisdom, to guard its Rights with all possible
Vigilance, and take Care that its sovereign Jurisdiction be not
impared or unreasonably delagated to Other Persons, besides those
in whom the Constitution hath vested it on any Pretence whatever.
Self preservation is said to be the first Law of Nature, It holds
good equally with Societies and Individuals, you will therefore
carefully Advert to those Principles which are essential to the
Preservation of a free Commonwealth. In this you will be greatly
aided by our excellent Frame of Government and the Declara-
tion of Rights, which we recommend to your frequent Perusal —
There we find it to be the express Sentiment of the Body of this
People, that the preservation of Good Government, essentially
[246.] depends upon Piety Religion and Morality, and that these
cannot be generally diffused among a Community but by the
Institution of the Public Worship of God — That Wisdom and
Knowledge, as well as Virtue are necessary for the preserva-
tion of the Rights and Liberties of the People. — That it is the
Duty of the Legislators and Magistrates of the Commonwealth, to
cherrish the Interest of Literature and the Sciences, and all Sem-
inaries of them especially the University at Cambridge, Publick
Schools and Grammar Schools, in the Towns — That Piety
Justice, Moderation, Temperance, Industry and Frugality, are
absolutely necessary to preserve the Advantages of Liberty —
These are the Principles of our Constitution, which it was incum-
bent on us very particularly to attend to in our Choice of you to
represent us ; and we require of you the Strict Observance of them
in the Part you shall take in the Formation of all Laws Necessarr
for the good Administration of the Affairs of the Commonwealth.
We shall always Submit chearfully to Laws formed on those Prin-
ciples, and wish for as perfect a [247.] System as human
Wisdom can contrive ; at the same time, as faithfull Citizens, we
must enjoin it upon you, to use your utmost Inffluence, that the
Act of this Commonwealth, intitled an Act for the due Observa-
tion of the Lords Day, and other penal Laws may be carefully
revised, that Such of them or parts of them as are repugnant to
314 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
the Rights and Liberties contained in the Constitution, may be
altered and amended or repealed.
Moreover in the aforesaid Declaration of Rights, the impartial
Interpretation of the Laws, and Administration of Justice are
expressly held to be essential to the Preservation of the Rights
of every Individul, his Life, Liberty, Property and Character ;
We therefore expect that you will use your utmost Endeavours
that all due Encouragement be given to the Ministers of Justice :
and particularly, that an honorable Support be Afforded, as the
Constitution requires, to the Judges of the Supreme Judicial Court.
You will also take Care that the Three Great Powers of Govern-
ment the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial be kept distinct
Agreeable to the Letter of our Constitution, and the Spirit of
every free [24:8.] Government — This we more especially remind
you of, inasmuch as we believe there has been an Interference in
the Exercise of these several Powers which leads to a fatal Change
of a free Commonwealth for Tyranny or Anarchy and Con-
fusion.
You will always remember that you represent a Trading Town ;
and therefore while you justly give your Attention to every Con-
sideration which may lead to promote Agriculture in its utmost
Extent, you will not fail to exert yourselves in proposing and
enforcing every Measure Adapted to cherish and extend our
Trade, and to encourage the Fishery, which by the Blessing of
Heaven is secured to us by the Treaty of Peace. — We cannot too
warmly express our Gratitude to Almighty God, who hath smiled
on the virtuous Struggles of the United States, and crowned the
Conflict with so happy a Conclusion, Our Independence is con-
firmed— A Blessing for which Patriots have long toiled and
Heroes fought and Bled — Posterity can never justly charge us
with tamely surrendering their Rights — We and they shall be
Free so long as we shall [249.] deserve Freedom — It will de-
pend upon our Virtue — But while we contemplate the Treaty
in general with pleasure we cannot help feeling anxious for the
Event of the fifth Article, which respects those Men who fled from
their Country when their Liberties were Invaded, and took
Residence in the Dominions of the Invader, Congress only can
recommend — They will not Obtrude Citizins on any of the States
— Much less declared Traitors — We give it to you as our Opinion,
that the late Conspirators against the Rights and Liberties of
America and of Mankind, whether they have Actually taken up
Arms against us or not, who have taken Shelter in the Bosom of
our Enemies, that Nation which has exhausted her Wealth and
Strength to enslave us ought never be suffered to Return, but to
be excluded from having any Lot or Portion among us.
The Committee Appointed to confer with the Abuttors on the
Town Dock relative to the Title and property of the Lands ; or
any Privileges in the said Dock as, also with respect to any
Compensation — Reported verbally and had leave to Report
again
Moved and Voted, that the [25O.] Instructions Agreed upon
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 315
to be given the Gentlemen who Represent this Town in the Gen-
eral Court be published in the severall News Papers.
Moved that when this Meeting shall be Adjourned, it shall be
to this Day three Weeks. 10. O Clock Fore noon.
And the Meeting was accordingly
Adjourned.
Tuesday June 3d. 1783. 10. O'Clock Forenoon, met according
to Adjournment
Thomas Daws Esqr. the Moderator of this Meeting being
detained at the General Court, a Motion was made and passed
that a Moderator Pro Tern0, be now chosen by a Hand Vote.
Benjamin Kent Esqr.
was chosen Moderator of this Meeting during the Absence of the
Honble. Samuel Adams Esqr. the Moderator
It was moved and Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to
3. O Clock Afternoon and the Meeting was accordingly Ad-
journed.
3. O'Clock P: M Met according to Adjournment.
[251.] Benjamin Kent Esqr. chosen a Moderator Pro. Tern0,
being Absent it was moved and Voted, that another Moderator
Pro Tern0, be now chosen.
Joseph Greenleaff Esqr.
was chosen Moderator Pro Tern0, by a Hand Vote
The Committee Appointed by the Town to examine the Books
and Accompts of Mr. Peter Boyer Town Treasurer to March the
1st. 1783 — have Attended that service and beg leave to Report as
follows.
That they find the Books and Accompts of said Treasurer regu-
larly kept and posted up to the first of March 1783 by which it
Appears that he charges himself for Taxes received, Rents, Sale
of New Emission Money, and State Treasurers Certificates from
the first of March 1782 to the first of March 1783. the Sum of
Eighteen thousand seven hundred and six pounds nineteen Shill-
ings and four Pence half Penny, and also new Notes hand issued
in lieue of Old ones, which he has redeemed and charges the Town
with to the Amount of Seven Thousand and thirty seven Pounds
fourteen Shillings & 7d. Specie the whole of sd. two Sums Amount-
ing to £25744. 13. 11£ Specie
[252.] And sd. Treasurer discharges himself from the Above
Sums in the following manner
Paid on the Selectmens Drafts to March 1st. 1783 £3944 18 If
Paid on the Overseers Draft to D° - - - - 915 9 B|
Paid to old & New Creditors £3585 14 6£ ) . ™7 t . fta
& 1102 0 O|j
Paid Loan Notes given to Supply Almshouse - 1050 0 0
Paid off old Notes given for supply \ -7fifi -„ 01
of the Alms House ' j
Paid Interest of Ditto - 1829 5 11 J
316 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Paid Premiums & Abatements made to the ^j
Late Collectors, Mess™. Shaw, Suraner, ! fi, . _ 1
.Thompson & Bayley on the Settlement of j
their Account
Paid on Account of New Notes 449 15 2i
£25193 ^ 5
Ballance Remaining in the hands of Peter")
Boyer Town Treasurer the I8t of March 1783 >- 551 8
in hard Money carryd to New Account J
Specie £25744 13 11£
Your Committee have carefully & in a Particular Manner Ex-
amined the Books & Accounts of said Treasurer also the Drafts of
the Selectmen & Overseers & every Other publick charge & find
them all Right Cast & proper & Sufficient Vouchers of every
Charge.
There also remains in the hands of the Treasurer the I8t. of
March 1783 besides the Above Ballance Viz'.
Dollars
[253.] In New Emission Money 57323 N.E. isl 7196 18 0
In old Continental Money old Curry - 38202 7 8
for which said Treasurer remains Accountable to your Committee
Also think it proper to inform the Town that it Appears by the
Treasurers Books that there remained due from the four last Col-
lectors Viz1. Mr. Bayley Mr. Williams Mr. Parker & Mr. Fallass,
the first. March 1783 — including their Premiums the following
Sums Viz*.
From Mr. Bayley £564 12 5f
from Mr. Williams - - - - - 924 2 6£
from Mr. Parker 903 0 8|
from Mr. Fallas 921 19 7f
Specie— £3313 15 4£
All which is humbly Submitted by Thomas Melvill, Thomas
Walley, John Lowell.' Boston May I8t. — 1783.
The foregoing Report having been read and considered — the
Question was put. Viz1. Whether the same shall be accepted Passed
in the Affermative.
The Article in the Warrant for March Meeting relative to a
Grant for the services of the Present Year, Schoolmasters Salaries
&c which was referred over to this Meeting for consideration —
was read — whereupon it was moved & Voted, that a Committee
be appointed to consider and Report what Sum of Money it will
be necessary [254:.] for the Town to raise .in order to defrey the
Expencies of the Current Year.
Voted, that Edward Payne Esqr.
Mr. Thomas Walley
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid who are desired to make
Report at the Adjournment of this Meeting.
The Committee Appointed to confer with the Abuttors on the
Town Dock relative to Claims Compensation &c : — made a Verbal
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 317
Report — whereupon it was Moved — That said Committee be
desired to proceed in the business Assigned them, and make
Report thereof to the Town in writing at the Adjournment of this
Meeting — and the Question being accordingly put — Passed in
the Affermative
The Selectmen
Appointed a Committee to Act upon the List of Jurors.
Moved & Voted, that when this Meeting is Adjourned, it shall
be to next Thursday Seven night 3. O'Clock P: M:
Moved & Voted, that the consideration of Schoolmasters Salary s
be referred to the Adjournment.
Then the Meeting was Adjourned.
[255.] Thursday Three O Clock Afternoon Met According
to Adjournment.
The Committee Appointed by the Inhabitants of the Town of
Boston to examine the Claims of the Abuttors on the Town Dock
have Attended that service and beg leave to Report
That the Claimes of said Abuttors, as well as the Claimes of The
Town in and to the Dock are exceeding numerous Ancient and
perplexed, and that the Committee have great reason to Suppose
there is a very considerable Number of Deeds and Papers touching
the Claimes aforesaid "which have not yet been exhibited.
That if the Committee could gain possession of all the Papers,
of every kind relating to said Claims it would even in that Case re-
quire such a length of Time to Obtain a final and determined
Opinion touching the Nature and quantity of right of different
Claimants as would have the Speedy purpose for which the Com-
mittee was chosen unanswered.
Besides your Committee would be cautious how they deside
upon the right of any Person who denies all Authoriety to [256.]
determin in such case, but the Authority of a Court Law.
Upon the whole the Committee having considered the long unin-
terrupted possession of the Abuttors and their Predecissors, and
having looked into a large number of Deeds and Town Records
are of Opinion, that the Town has little more than a right in com-
mon to that part of the Dock meant to be filled up, and that it is
most convenient in the choice of difficulties to make some compo-
sition with the Abuttors and to make them some Offer for a release
of their right be that more or less.
JAMES SULLIVAN
Jo8. WATERS JuNr.
THOMAS DA WES Jur.
The aforegoing Report having been read and considered the
Question was put — Viz'. — Whether the same shall be Accepted —
Passed in the Affirmative.
Moved, that a Committee be appointed to confer with the Abut-
tors on the Town Dock, and Report the Sums that Such Abuttors
would take for their claim to the Dock, and in case the Abuttors
do not mention a Sum, then the Committee and Abuttors shall
agree upon three Persons to value said Claims and Report the
same at the [257.] Adjournment of this Meeting — And the
Question being accordingly put — Passed in the Affirmative.
318 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Voted, that the Selectmen be and hereby are Appointed a Com-
mittee for the purposes Aforesaid
The Committee Appointed to consider and Report what Sum of
Money it would be necessary for the Town to raise in order to
def rey the Expencies of the Current Year Reported — And the
Report having been read it was moved and Voted, that the consid-
eration of this Report, and all other matters which remain unfin-
ished to be referred over to the Adjournment of this Meeting
Moved, that when this Meeting is Adjourned it shall be to this
Day seven Night — 3. O'Clock Afternoon
Voted, that the Town Clerk be directed to Notify the Inhabi-
tants of the business of the Adjournment — Viz1. — To grant the
Sum of Money necessary to defrey the Expencies of the Current
Year, and also the Salares of Schoolmasters Town Treasurer &c
Adjourned to Thursday the 19th. of June Instant. 3. OClock
Afternoon.
[258.] Thursday the 19th. Day of June 3. O. Clock in the
Afternoon the Town met according to Adjournment.
The Committee Appointed to consider what Sum of Money is
necessary to be raised for defreying the Expencies of the Current
year — Reported as follows Viz'.
That it appears by the Treasurers Books and the Report of the
Committee appointed to examine the Treasurers Accounts, there
remained unpaid of the Selectmen and Overseers Draughts on the
first of March last £2020 0 —
To discharge this Sum there was in the
Treasury in Money ------ £550
Due from the Collectors deduct8, their
Premiums and Abatemts. About 8 p C',
Remains due to Compleat the Draughts of the
last Year -------
- £550 )
ir | fi1q f
*. J )
j
f
j
To pay for New School House — since drawn ) 0 . .
for- } 34°
o pa
past
To pay the Town Clerk for three years — ) 1000
2200
For the Expences of the Curr1. year School-
masters Salaries £1200
Watchmen £760 Town Treasurer and Town ) 1
Clark £400 } 116(
[259.] Assessors — £600 — Premium for f , 9nn
Collecting - - - - £600 j1
6 p Cl. Abatement on £25000 1500
Repairing the Streets, Buildings and other Con- ") -~~
tingent Charges at least -------j
For Posts Rails &c for the Market Square and \ *„„
filling up the Dock to be paid out of the Taxes
exclusive — of the Abuttors Claims
£6060
To pay the Overseers Draughts for the Alms- } 2000
house __---------. j
£10260.
BOSTON TOWN EECORDS, 1783. 319
In this Estimate no Provision is made to pay any part of the old
debts either principal or interest except the New P^raission Money
is Sold for the purpose of paying the Interest on the Notes, that
have been brought in and renewed.
This Sum of £10260 - - - the Committee are of Opinion will be
necessary — whether tlie Inhabitants can pay a larger or even so
Large a Sum in Addition to the State Taxes, is submitted to the
consideration of the Town — Edward Payne
The State Tax is upwards Thomas Wallev
of £17000. Ezekiel Price
The aforegoing Report having been read and Considered, it was
moved that the Sum of £10,200 lawful Money be [26O.]
raised by a Tax on the Inhabitants to defry the P^xpencies of the
Town the Current Year — and the Question being accordingly put
— Passed in the Affirmative.
It was moved and carried that the Above Vote for raising
£10,200 — for the defreying the Charges of the Current year be
reconsidered — also
Voted, that the Sum of Nine thousand Pounds lawful Money be
raised by a Tax upon the Polls and Rateable Estates of the
Inhabitants of this Town in order to defrey the necessary Ex-
pences of the Current Year.
Moved, that a Committee be now Appointed to consider and
Report what they shall Judge to be proper and adequate Salaries
for the Schoolmasters and Town Treasurer the present Year —
And the Question being accordingly put — Passed in the Aff erma-
tive — also
Voted, that Mr. Thomas Walley excused
Mr. John Lowell
Mr. Joseph Russel
Joseph Barrel Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid to Report at the Ad-
journment.
Moved that when this Meeting is Adjourned it shall be to this
Day fortnight [261.] 3. O Clock. Afternoon, being the 3d. Day of
July
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in publick
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the 19th.
Day of June Anno Domini 1783. 4. O'Clock in the Afternoon
Warrant for calling the Meeting was read.
The Precept received from the Speaker of the House of Repre-
sentatives for the choosing one Person to Represent this Town in
the General Court this present year in the Room of the Honble.
John Pitts Esqr. who has been Elected Senator and accepted the
Trust — was read — and After some debate had thereon
It was moved, that the Town proceed to make choice of one
Person to Represent this Town in the General Court of this
Commonwealth for the present Year in room of the Honble. John
320 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Pitts Esqr. who has been Elected Senator and Accepted
the Trust — And the Question being accordingly put — Passed in
the Negative.
It was then moved that this Meeting be dissolved.
And the Meeting was accordingly dissolved.
At an Adjournment of the May Meeting July 3d. 1783.
3. O Clock in the Afternoon.
Joseph Greenleaf Esqr.
in the Chair
The Article in the Warrant — Viz1. "To consider the request
of a Number of the Inhabitants that no Person whatever be
suffered to sell pickeled Meat Butter or Wet Provisions of any
kind whatever in the Market &c — was read — as also the Petition
to the Selectmen, requesting, that said Article might be inserted in
the Warrant for calling the Meeting — whereupon after some
debate it was moved and Voted, that the further consideration of
this Article be deffered.
The Article in the Warrant. Viz'. "To consider of some
speedy method for payment of the Expence incurred by Build-
ing the New School- house," was read, and After some debate, the
Town declined Acting upon said Article
[263.] The Article in the Warrant, Viz'. — To consider the
Request of the Constables that some recompence may be made
them for services rendered the Town in that Office " — was read &
considered ; whereupon the Question was put. Viz'. — Whether
the said Request shall be granted — Passed in the Negative.
The Committee Appointed to consider and Report what they
should Judge Adequate Grants to the School Masters for the
present Year — having Reported to the Town as their Opinon
that the Same Allowances be made the Several Schoolmasters for
their services the present Year as were made them the last Year
— the following Votes were passed — Viz'.
Voted, that the Sum of two hundred Pounds, be allowed and
paid unto Mr. Samuel Hunt for his Salary as Master of the South
Grammar School the present year to commence the first of March
last, the same to be paid him Quarterly as it shall become due.
Voted, that the Sum of two hundred Pounds be allowed and
paid unto Mr. Nathan Davis for his Salary as Master of the North
•Grammer School the present Year, commencing from the first of
March last the same to be paid him Quarterly as it shall become
•due.
[264.] Voted, that the Sum of One hundred and Ninety
Pounds be allowed and paid unto Mr. James Carter for his Salary
as Master of the Writing School in Queen Street the present Year
commencing from the first of March last, the same to be paid him
Quarterly as it shall become due.
Voted, that the Sum of One hundred and Ninety Pounds, be
allowed and paid unto Mr. James Tileston for his Salary as Master
of the North Writing School the present year, the same to be paid
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 321
him Quarterly as it shall become due and to commence from the
first of March last.
Voted, that the Sum of One hundred and Ninety Pounds be
allowed and paid unto Mr. John Vinal for his Salary as Master of
the Writing School in the Common the present year, the same to
be paid him Quarterly as it shall become due, and to commence
from the first of March last
Voted, that the Sum of One hundred Pounds be allowed and
paid unto Mr. Samuel Payson for his Salary as Usher of the South
Grammer School for the present Year the Same to be paid him
Quarterly as it shall become due, and to commence from the first
of March last
[265.] Voted, that Mr. John Tileston Master of the North
Writing School be allowed for House Rent the present year the
Sum of forty Pounds, the Same to be paid him Quarterly as it
shall become due and to commence from the first of March last
Voted, that Mr. Nathan Davis Master of the North Grammer
School be allowed for House Rent the Present Year the Sum of
Forty Pounds, the same to be paid him Quarterly as it shall
become due and to commence from the first of March last
Voted, that Mr. John Vinal Master of the Writing School in the
Common be allowed for House Rent the present Year the Sum of
forty Pounds, the same to be paid him Quarterly as it shall be-
come due and to commence from the first of March last
Voted, that Mr. Peter Boyer be allowed and paid the Sum of
Two hundred Pounds for his Services as Treasurer the present
Year, the same to be paid him Quarterly as it shall become due
and to commence the first of March Last
[266.] The Committee Appointed to confer with the Abutters
on- the Town Dock relative to any Claims of Priviledge &c in said
Dock being called upon to Report — informed the Town that they
were not as yet able to make Report.
Moved that a Committee be now appointed to take into consid-
eration what is still due to David Jeffries Esqr. late Town
Treasurer for his Services in that Office and to Report at the Ad-
journment if any or at the next Town Meeting — The Question
being accordingly put — Passed in the Affirmative.
Voted, that Mr. Thomas Walley
Mr. John Lowel
Mr. Henry Prentice
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
Voted,. that all Matters & things which remain unfinished at this
Meeting be referred over to the next general Town Meeting that
shall be called then to be acted upon
Then the Meeting was dissolved1
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified & legally warned in [267.] Pub-
lick Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Fry day the 4th.
Day of July Anno Domini 1783 — 10. O. Clock in the Forenoon
Warrant for calling this Meeting was read
322 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
The Honble. James Sullivan Esqr. was chosen Moderator of this
Meeting & took his Seat accordingly.
The Committee appointed by the Town the Tenth of March last
to Apply to a proper Gentelman to deliver an Oration on the fourth
Day of July Instant (in such Place as the Town shall determine to
be most convenient for the purpose) it being a Day ever
memorable in the Annals of this Country for the Declaration of
our Independence
Reported
Thut having met several times for the purposes mentioned in
the Town Vote, they have unanimously made choice of Dr. John
"Warren to deliver an Oration on the fourth of July Instant, who
had accordingly accepted of that service
The foregoing Report having been read, the same was accepted
by the Town
Upon a Motion the Town took into consideration when would be
the best time [268.] to have the Oration pronounced ; as also
what place would be most suitable for the purpose whereupon
Voted, that the Oration be delivered at Dr. Coopers Church in
Brattle street, the Kail not being capacious enough to receive the
Inhabitants that Attend upon the Occasion — also
Voted, that William Tudor Esqr.
Thomas Daws Esqr.
Ebenezer Hancock Esqr.
be a Committee to wait upon Dr. John Warren, and acquaint him
that it is the desire of the Town, that the Oration may be delivered
at Dr. Coopers Church as soon as the Religeous Exercises as di-
rected by the Gen1. Court are ended, as also to Ask leave of the
Committee of said Church for the use of that Building v
On a Motion Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to Satur-
day next, 12. — O'Clock at Noon then to met in this Place
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
Saturday the 5th. Day of July 12. O'Clock at Noon — Town
Met According to Adjournment
[269.] AN ORATION
To commemorate the Independence of the United States of Amer-
ica was delivered by Dr. John Warren at Dr. Coopers Church on
the Yesterday to a large and crouded Assembly, that Day being
the Anniversary of said Independance
On a Motion Voted, that The Selectmen
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to wait on Docf. John
Warren, and in the Name of the Town to Thank him for the learned
and elegant Oration delivered by him Yesterday at the Request of
the Town upon the Anniversary of the Independence of the United
States of America in which according to the Institution of the
Town he considered the feelings, manners, and Principles which
lead to that great National Event — And to request of him a Copy
thereof for the Press.
On a Motion Voted, that
The Gentelmen the Selectmen be and hereby are appointed a
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 323
Committee to Apply to some Learned and Able Gentelman to
deliver an Oration on the 4th. of July 1784 that Day being the An-
niversary of the INDEPENDENCE of the United [27O.] States of
America, wherein the Orator is to consider the feelings manners
and principles which lead to this great National Event, as well as
the important and happy Effects whether general or Domestice
which have already and will forever continue to flow from that
Auspicious Epoch.
Then the Meeting was dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and Other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in publick Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 11th. Day of
August Anno Domini 1783 — 3. O'Clock P.M.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — was read.
Moved & Voted, that a Moderator for this Meeting be chosen
by a Hand Vote.
The Houble. Robert Treat Paine Esqr. was chosen Moderator,
but being by his desire excused from serving
Thomas Dawes Esqr.
was chosen Moderator, and took the Chair accordingly.
[271.] The Petition of a Number of Physicians for leave to
Erect an Inoculating Hospital at Apple Island &c — Viz1.
To The Freeholders & Other Inhabitants of the Town of Boston
in publick Town Meeting Assembled.
When the People of this Commonwealth were a part of the
British Nation, and consequently were connected in Commerce
only with that Kingdom, their Islands and Countries, it happened
by this intercourse, that nearly once in ten }*ears that distinctive
Disorder the Small Pox made its Appearance in this Metropolis,
sweeping from the Stage in its progress, the enterprising Mer-
chant the busy Mechanic, and the valuable Patriot, before leave
could be obtained to mitigate its Severity by the Hand of the
Inoculation. — The Inhabitants flew from the face of the destro3-er
and with them a very important Part of the Trade of this Metrop-
olis, which has scarcely at this day returned, since we have now
Opened an Intercourse with the Nations of Europe and all the
Islands in the West Indies, may we not justly expect this disorder
will be much oftner brought among us which will occasion an
Obstruction in Trade very injurious to a large Commercial City;
to prevent these Evils in future, which we conceive may be effected
by an Appropriation of some convenient place for Inoculation,
where every Person who wishes to pass through [272.] the Dis-
order may without any danger to that part of the Community who
from Infirmity or disinclination would Chuse to Avoid it.
The Subscribers beg leave to Petition for Liberty to carry on
the Business of Innoculation upon Apple Island it being a very Safe
and convenient Situation ; or some Other place within the Juris-
diction of the Town in the neighbourhood of said Island, and to
be under such regulations as the Law directs, as they doubt not
324 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
the Town will be convinced of the Utility of the Institution they
therefor with pleasure submit to their wise consideration.
And your Petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray
JOHN WARREN
THOMAS WELSH
AARON DEXTER
JOHN BARTLETT
The foregoing Petition having been read, and considered, it was
Moved, and the Question Accordingly put — Viz'. — Whether the
Town consent and Approve of the busines of Inoculation being
carried on upon Apple Island — Passed in the Affermative
The Petition of the Town of Chelsea relative to their being
reannexed to the Town of Boston, was laid before the Town and
is as follows Viz'.
[273.] To the Inhabitants of the Town of Boston the Ad-
dress and Petition of the Town of Chelsea Humbly Sheweth.
That having for the Space of Forty five years experienced many
disadvantages from a Small Incorporation, which at first was un-
fairly Obtained ; and being now greatly reduced and impoverished
by a very unequal proportion of Public Taxes which was Assigned
us through the Ignorance of our Representative in the year 1781 —
And although the Hon. General Court, has for the present Adjusted
our valuation nearly to an equality with the Other Towns in the
Country — Yet we find ourselves in Absolute need of protection
and security from Such evils for the future Superior to what we
are capable of exerting for ourselves — And therefore we take the
Liberty respectfully to Address you on the Subject of a reunion,
that we may once more be considered as a branch of this
Metropolis.
We have long regretted a Seperation which has pi-oved the
source of such ruinous consequences to us ; And if no consider-
ation of detriment or Additional Charge should Appear in your
discernment to Accrue, we can't but hope from the generous and
public Spirit which has Always distinguished the Inhabitants of
this Metropolis, that this [274.] Address will be thought worthy
of your Attention at least so far as to favour us with a conferance
upon the Subject by a Committee.
And your Petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray &c.
PHILIP PAYSON ~]
SAMUEL SARGENT | Committee in
JOHN SALE }• the Name and
JOSHUA CHEEVER | behalf of the
SAMUEL CLARK j Town.
The foregoing Petition having been read, and debate had
thereon, it was moved and
Voted, that the Petition of the Town of Chelsea be referred to a
Committee to Consider the Same, and that the said Committee be
directed to Confer with the Committee of the Town of Chelsea on
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 325
the Subject matter thereof, and to Report as Soon as may be —
also
Voted, unanimously that
The Gentelmen the Selectmen be a Committee for the purpose
aforesaid.
The Article in the Warrant Viz*. To consider what allowances
shall be made the Assessors for their Services the present Year."
was read — whereupon it was moved and
Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to make such Allowance
to the Assessors [275.] for their service as they may Judge
proper ; provided such allowance does not exceed the Sum of six
Shillings p Day for said Services
Voted, that all Matters & things which remain unfinished at
this Meeting be referred over to the next General Town Meeting
that may be called then to be Acted upon.
Voted, that the thanks of the Town be given to Thomas Daws
Esqr. the Moderator for his good Services
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in publick Town
Meeting Assembled at Fanuiel Hall on Fryday the 29th. Day of
August Anno Domini 1783 — 3. O. Clock in the Afternoon
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Moderator of this Meeting, and the same being
brought in and sorted, it Appeared that
Thomas Daws Esqr.
was chosen Moderator, unanimously
On a Motion the Petition of a number of a Number of Gentle-
men, to the Selectmen for calling a Meeting - - - read
[275 A.] The Article in the Warrant Viz*. — To consider
whether any thing shall be done respecting the Land at Olivers
Dock laid Waste by the late Fire" — was read, whereupon it was
moved and Voted — That a Committee be Appointed to confer
with the Owners of Land near Olivers Dock made vacant by the
late Fire, and Report to the Town at the Adjournment, the Terms
on which the Owners will dispose of their said Lands also
Voted, that Thomas Daws Esqr. Moderator
Joseph Barrel Esq.
Nathaniel Appleton Esqr.
Nathaniel Balch
Nathan Frazier Esqr.
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. "To consider what measures
shall be taken to enforce the good and wholesome Laws respect-
ing building with Wood " — was read whereupon
Voted, that Honble. Robert T. Payne Esqr.
John Lowel Esqr.
William Tudor Esqr.
be a Committee to examine the Laws relative to new Wooden
326 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Buildings erected, and to Report a Draught of a Law, which may
be efectual to prevent the evil complained of
[276. J The Article in the Warrant Viz1. "To consider what
measures shall be taken to enforce the good and wholesome Laws
for preventing the tiring Small Arms at the bottom of the Common
on the Neck and else where within the Limits of the Town," was
read whereupon
Voted, that the Gentelmeu
The Selectmen
be directed, immediately to employ three Persons to see the Laws
carried into execution for prevention of the dangerous practice
complained of
The Committee appointed to confer with the Abuttors on the
Town Dock, relative lo a compensation for their Claims, Reported
Verbally — That they had not as yet conferred with all the Abut-
tors so as they can now make a full Report to the Town, but hoped
they should be able to do it at the Adjournment whereupon
Moved & Voted, that the Selectmen be desired to make as full
a Report as may be relative to this matter at the Adjournment of
this Meeting
The Article in the Warrant. Viz1. "To consider what further
measures shall be taken for the security of the Town by Night —
was read — whereupon
[276 A.] Voted, that Mr. Sam: Whitwell
John Sweetser Esqr.
Mr. Nath1. Balch
Nath1. Appleton Esqr.
Joseph Barrel Esqr.
Thomas Daws Esqr.
Mr. Henry Prentice
be a Committee to consider this Article of the Warrant and Re-
port at the Adjournment of this Meeting
The Committee appointed to examine into certain demands the
Board of War have against the Town for Corn, Arms &c Amount-
ing to Twenty Six hundred and forty Pounds, laid their Report
before the Town — which Report is to be taken up and consid-
ered at the Adjournment of this Meeting
Moved, that this Meeting be Adjourned to Wednesday next
being the third Day of September, 3. O'Clock in the Afternoon.
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned.
Wednesday the third Day of September, 3. O'Clock Afternoon
— Met according to Adjournment.
[277.] The Committee to confer with the Abuttors on the
Town Dock Reported verbally
That they had not been able to confer with all the Abuttors,
Col°. John Tyng who is one of them being in the Country Sick ;
but that the amount of the Sums required for compensation so far
as they had gone, exclusive of Mr. Tyngs part, amounting to
upwards of fifteen hundred Pounds, Appeared to them a Sum so
large, that they were led to the Opinion, that it was not worth
while for the Committee to proceed any further in the business of
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 327
Conference, without the Town should require it of them — After
some debate, it was moved
That the Selectmen be impowered to confer with all or the
Major part of the Abuttors on the Town Dock, or such as Shall
legally represent them, and make them the proposal of submitting
to the Arbitration and Award of three Persons to be mutually
chosen and Agreed on by the Town and the said Abuttors, who
shall have full Power finally to determine the Right, Title,
Privilege and Claim of the said Abuttors to the Town Dock as
filled up, and to determine and agree upon such Sum or Sums of
Money as they shall think an Adequate Compensation to the said
Abuttors for the filling up said Dock, if they have an3' Title or
Privilege thereto ; and that the Selectmen be fully impowered to
nominate and Agree upon said Arbitrators in behalf of the Town
[278.] and to enter into any Bonds and Covenants for the faith-
ful performance of the Awarvl of said Arbitrators — and the
Question being accordingly put — It passed in the Affirmative
The Committee Appointed to confer with the Owners of Land
near Olivers Dock made vacant by the late Fire — Reported
verbally
That they had met several times on the business, and conferred
with the Owners of the Land where the Buildings were consumed,
as also the Abuttors on Land on the some square — • that Mr.
Phillips and some others, were willing to dispose of their Lands
and Buildings provided the Other Owners and Abuttors were dis-
posed to part with what might be sufficient to Answer the inten-
tion of the Town, the purchase of all which would amount to
about five or Six Thousand Pounds — whereupon, it was moved
and
Voted, that the Committee, be desired to proceed in the business
and Report at the next Town Meeting in Writing and that the
Selectmen insert in the Warrant for calling said Meeting a Clause
for taking up said Report.
[279o] The Committee appointed to consider what further
measures shall be taken for the security of the Town by Night
Reported verbally — That there be an Additional Watch of eight
Men, which they term a patroling Watch, to be partly made up
from the other Watch, and to have an Additional pay — Also with
respect to the Lamps being again lighted up in the Town, if the
Town should think it expedient — It was then moved, and
Voted, that the Committee aforesaid be desired to Report their
Opinion in Writing at the next Town Meeting which may be
called, and that a Clause for taking up the Report be inserted in
the Warrant for said Meeting.
The Committee relative to ascertaining the demands of the
Board of War on the Town — Report as follows. Viz'.
The Committee appointed to examine into certain demands the
Board of War have against the Town for Corn Arms &c Amount-
ing to £2640. 0. 0 Specie, have Attended that business and
Report
That the seven hundred bushels of Corn charged £158. 19. 1
has been paid by William Phillips Esqr.
328 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
The one Hundred forty eight Armes and Accoutrements
charged delivered Col°. Proctor, he informed the Committee he
would do his best [£79A] endeavour to collect and return agree-
able to the Condition of the Resolve of Court
The Ninety Cartouch Boxes and Ninety Bayonet Belts charged
delivered Col°. Crafts he informed the Committee he did not recol-
lect receiving, but if he had them they were for the use of the
Militia, and were not returned to him
The thirty one Fire Arms and Bayonets charged delivered Col°:
Hatch, the Committee are informed were for men inlisted for the
Town into the Continental Army, which Men were detained in
Town sometime for want of Arms, at great expence and hazard of
desertion, that he took this method of procuring Arms for them,
as the only expedient to get them to the Army, and to save the
Town great charge
The Town will be informed by the Gentelmen Selectmen con-
cerning the twenty hundred weight of Lead charged delivered John
Scollay Esqr. as also concerning the Arms delivered to General
Gages order before the Seige, that were Afterwards taken &
repaired by the State,
All the Other Articles charged against the Town, it appears by
a sketch of the Account taken from the Books of the late Board of
[279B] War (which is hereto annexed) were for the use of the
States Hospital
ISAAC PHILLIPS p Order
The foregoing Report having been read it was moved, and
Voted, that the Selectmen be desired to make enquiry respecting
the Articles mentioned in the foregoing Report as being wanting
as also to call upon the Colonel and the Captains of the Militia of
the Boston Regiment to Account for the small Arms delivered to
them, in order for a Settlement of the Account with the Com-
mon wealth
Moved, and Voted, that all matters and Things which remain
unfinished at this Meeting, be and hereby are referred over to the
next General Town Meeting that may be called then to be acted
upon
Moved, and Voted, that the thanks of the Town be and
hereby are given to Thomas Daws Esqr. for his good Services as
Moderator of this Meeting
Moved that this Meeting be now dissolved
And the Meeting was accordingly
dissolved
[28O.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & Other Inhab-
itants of The Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in
publick Town Meeting Assembled at Fanuiel Hall on Monday the
8th. Day of December Anno Domini 1783 — 3. O Clock in the
Afternoon.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
It was moved and Voted that the Moderator be chosen by a
Hand Vote
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. H29
The Honble. James Sullivan Esqr. was chosen Moderator of this
Meeting and took his Seat accordingly.
The Article in the Warrant Viz'. — To choose two or more suit-
able Persons to be Viewers, and Cullers of Staves and Hoops,"
was taken into consideration whereupon.
It was moved and Voted, that Six Persons be chosen Surveyors
and Cullers of Staves and Hoops — also.
Voted, that these Persons be not chosen by a Hand Vote, but by
Ballot
[281.] The Votes being accordingly brought in and sorted it
appeared, that
Cap'. John Newell
Cap'. Man assah Masters
Mr. William Marsters
Mr. Daniel Bell
Mr. Arthur Langford
Mr. John McElroy
were chosen Cullers of Staves &c for the remainder of the year
The Article in the Warrant Viz*. — "To consider whether the
Hay Market shall be removed to a Place more convenient for the
Business " — whereupon
Voted, that the Selectmen be desired to carry the Report of
the Committee relative to Land on Olivers Dock made vacant
by the late Fire, into execution, so far as relates to removing the
Engine for weighing Hay, near the School House by the Common.
The Committee appointed to confer with the Owners of the
Land near Olivers Dock made Vacant by the late Fire, having
attended the Business, take leave to Report
That as some of the Owners of said Land are unwilling to dis-
pose of the same, and the great Expence that will attend the pur-
chasing from Others so much as will be necessary to Answer the
intention of the Town [282.] it is not expedient for the Town
to take any further steps relative to the said Place more especially
as the Committee conceive the Town may be much better ac-
commodated near the School House by the Common on their own
Land, and by removing the Engine for weighing the Hay to that
Place it will naturally become the Market Place -for that Article,
and by being more in the Center of the Town will better Accom-
modate the Inhabitants, all which is Submitted
THOMAS DAWS p Order
The foregoing Report having been read and considered — the
Question was put — Viz'. — Whether the same shall be accepted
— Passed in the Affirmative
The Committee appointed to consider what further Measures
shall be taken for the security of the Town by Night having
attended the Business, take leave to Report — Whereas it appears
That there are four Watch Houses kept up in the Town, to
each of which are Appointed one Constable at eleven Dollars per
Month, and five Watchmen at eight Dollars p Month, each amount-
ing in the whole to Seven hundred thirty four Pounds [283.]
330 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
eight Shillings p Annum exclusive of Fewell and Candles, and the
Advantage arising from the said Watches appear to be no ways
equal to the Expence.
It is therefore presumed that a different disposition of the
Watch, will tend much more for the Safety and Security of the
Town by Night than the present.
If each of the present Watch Houses were reduced to four,
and the eight taken from them to form another Watch, to be kept
near the State House and this Watch to have an addition of one
Shilling p Night to what the Others have to induce Persons suita-
ble for the business to engage and they to be a patrolling Watch
to inspect the Others &c.
As the Gentelmen the Selectmen will direct it is supposed the
Town may reap such advantages from this Alteration, as will
compinsate for the additional Expence.
And the Committee also Report, that the lighting the Town as
formerly will further Add to its security — upon enquiring they
find one hundred and twenty Lamps left in the upper Chamber
[284:.] of the Hall, and from the best intellegence suppose that
about eighty are out in the Town, on this presumption One
hundred more Lamps will make up the Number that was originally
kept up for lighting the Town
The greatest part of the Posts and Irons are in their Places —
The former Expencies of the Lamp Lighters & Master amounted
to £155. 4. 0. and the Oyl and Wick about £300. 0. 0 more p
Annum — All which is Submitted.
THOMAS DAws p order
The foregoing Report having been read and considered — where-
upon
It was moved and Voted, that so much of said Report as
respects a Patrolling Watch be accepted — and that the Select-
men be and hereby are appointed a Committee to carry the same
into execution as soon as may be.
A further debate arose respecting that part of the Report which
respects, the Lamps and lighting the town, whereupon it was
moved that a Committee be now Appointed to Collect all the
Lamps [285.] which are in Town and others belonging to the
Town, and that they devise ways and means for the immediate
lighting the Town and make Report at the Adjournment of this
Meeting — also
Voted, that Thoma^ Daws Esqr.
John Sweetser
William Whitwell
Mr. Nath1. Balch
Nath1. Appleton Esqr.
Joseph Barrel Esqr.
Mr. Henry Prentice
be a Committee for the purpose aforesaid
The Article in the Warrant — Viz'.
To receive the Report of the Committee relative to market
Square " — • was read — but one of said Committee being in the
Meeting acquainted the Town that they were not yet ready to
make Report — whereupon it was moved and
BOSTOX TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 331
Voted, that the Gentelmen who Represent the Town in the
General Court of this Commonwealth be and hereby are Instructed
to use their endeavors in the General Court that a [286.] Law
may be obtained to prevent or remove Incumbrances on the
Market Square, Simular to the Draught of a By Law lately pre-
sented the Court of Sessions for that purpose which was not ob-
tained as they apprehend, that only the General Court could pass
such a Law
The Article in the Warrant Viz4.
" That the Town will come into some Measures for the regulat-
ing the tolling of the Bells for Funerals " — was read it was then
moved, and
Voted, that the Selectmen be a Committee to take this Article
into consideration ; as also what may be necessary for regulating
the Expencies of Burials ; and to make Report at the Adjourn-
ment of this Meeting.
The Committee appointed to examine and Report what they
Judge may be still due to the late Treasurer David Jeffries E)sqr.
for his servicies as Treasurer of the Town Report as follows —
Viz4.
The Committee appointed by a Vote of the Town of July 3d.
1783 — to take into consideration what is still due to David Jeff-
ries Esqr. late Town Treasurer for his Services in that Office &
report to the Town have attended that service and beg leave to
make the following Report.
[287.] That they have carefully examined the Selectmcns
drafts from the year 1774 to the pi'esent day in order to Ascertain
what he has received from the Town in those Years & they find
that he has not had any drafts for his Salary for the years 1775.
1778 & 1781. They have also carefully examined the Sums he
has received in paper Monev in the other years in order to dis-
cover how near it came in Value to the Salary in solid Money
which we suppose he was entitled to. We herewith annex a State
of his Account to March 1782. the time he resigned, wherein will
be seen the Allowances we have made him for those Years — And
as we find the Business of the Treasurer was greatly increased in
the Years 1779. 1780. & 1781. owing to the ,dcpreciated paper
currency & the price of all the necessarys of Life so excessive high
in 1780 & 1781 — Your Committee are of Opinion he is Justly en-
titled to the severall allowances we have made him, Whereby it
will appear that there is a ballance due to him from the Town of
Eight hundred & Eleven pounds fifteen shillings & 4d. Specie,
which your Committee are of Opinion ought to be on Interest till
it is discharged — all which is submitted — THOMAS WALLET
£811. 15. 4. p Order of the Committee
iioston Decr. 6. 1783
[288.] The foregoing Report having been read — it was
moved and Voted that the consideration thereof be Referred to
next March Meeting.
It was Moved that when this Meeting is Adjourned it shall be
to Thursday the 18th. Day of December Ins'. 3. O Clock in the
Afternoon.
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned.
332 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Thursday the 18th. Day of December met according to Adjourn-
ment.
The Honble. James Sullivan Esqr. the Moderator of this Meet-
ing having excused himself from attending this Afternoon — It
was moved that the Towa now come to the choice of a Moderator
Pro Tern0.
Voted, that a Moderator Pro Tern0: be chosen by a Hand
Vote
Perez Morton Esqr.
was chosen Moderator Pro Tern0, and took the Seat accordingly.
The Committee appointed to Collect the Lamps belonging to
the Town, and also to devise ways and means for the speedy
[289.] lighting the same, not having Reported in writing, it
was moved and carried that the Consideration of this Matter be
passed over for the present
The Committee appointed to carry the Resolution of the Town
into execution with respect to appointing a patrolling Watch,
being called upon to know whether the Same had been effected,
acquainted the Town, that not having been able to Obtain a
suitable place for a Watch House, they should postpone the ap-
pointing said Watch, but hoped soon to be able to answer the in-
tention of the Town relative to said Watch
The Committee appointed to consider of some measures for
regulating the Expencies at Funerals, and Tolling the Bells on
such occasion — Reported to the Town in writing on those Mat-
ters — but as what related to the regulation of Funerals was Ob-
jected to, as not being inserted in the Warrant for calling the
Meeting ; the Town attended chiefly to that part of the Report,
relative to the tolling of Bells at Funerals, and after considerable
debate and arguments thereon the Town came into the following
Resolution Viz1.
Voted, that in future there be only one Bell tolled at each
Funeral ; and that the Bell of the Parish to which the Deceased
belonged [29O.] Or the Bell of the Parish nearest to the Habi-
tation where the Deceased Dwelled at the Election of the Relations
of the Deceased.
That in tolling the Bells for such Funerals, not more than two
Strokes of a Bell be given in one Minute.
The Committee for collecting the Lamps belonging to the Town,
and for divising ways and means for the immediate lighting the
Town, not being ready to make Report.
It was Moved and Voted that
Col°. Tudor
be added to the Committee ; who are desired to set forthwith, and
Report to the Town at the Adjournment the ways and means for
carrying said intention of the Town into immediate execution.
It was moved that when this Meeting is Adjourned, it shall be
to Wednesday the Twenty fourth Day of December Instant 3.
O'Clock in the Afternoon.
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned to said Time then
to Meet in this Place.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1783. 333
Wednesday the 24 Day of December 3. O Clock: Afternoon —
Met according to Adjournment
[291.] The Honblc. James Sullivan the Moderator and Perez
Moreton Esqr. Moderator Pro. Tern0, not being able to give their
Attendance, it was moved and Voted, to come to the choice of
another Moderator Pro Tern0, in order to regulate the Meeting
and that this choice be by a hand Vote.
Ezekiel Price Esqr.
was accordingly chosen Moderator Pro. Tern0.
The Committee Appointed to Collect the Lamps &c take leave
to Report.
That it was the Intention of the Town to have Lamps lighted
as heretofore if a sufficient number could be Obtained for the pur-
pose. And that a Committee would attend at Fanuiel Hall on
Tuesday the 23d. Instant from eleven to one of the Clock before-
noon at which time & place the Inhabitants who had any Lamps in
their Possession were desired to send in their Names & Place of
Abode to the said Committee in order that the number of Lamps
belonging to the Town or otherways might be known and also it'
any Person had any to dispose of they were requested to Give
in their Names with the Number they have on Hand that a satis-
factory report might be made at the Adjournment " The Commit-
tee Attended the [292.] Business & would Inform the Town
that no Person Attended in consequence of the aforesaid Notifica-
tion.
They also desired a Gentelman at Salem to make Enquiry of the
Lamps that are reported to be in that Town from whom they have
not heard.
The Committee would further report that the Selectmen be re-
quested to employ some Suitable Person as soon as may be, to take
an Account of the Irons & Posts that was provided in the year 1774
now standing & what the deficiency is, to asurtain this the Com-
mittee will furnish him a list of them. An Enquirey may be also
made if there is any Lamps in the Houses where the Irons are or
in the Neighborhood of them And if a sufficient number of Lamps
can in any ways be Obtained. That then the Selectmen be requested
to Employ a Master & Lamp Lighters as before in this Business and
make the necessary repairs & provide such Articles as may be
wanted.
And that a Tax of Six hundred pounds be Assessed as soon as
possible on the Inhabitants for the purpose of carrying [293.]
This plan into Execution to be called the Lamp Tax this Tax will
be about one sixtieth part of the last Tax. And it is supposed if
made with nearly the same Materials may be soon done and the
Meeting of it be not difficult, a person who pay'd sixty Dollars in
the last Tax will p*ay about one in this — The Disposition of the
Inhabitants with regard to lighting the Lamps will be soon known
by the Collection of the said Tax.
But if it is found inexpedient for such a Tax to be immediately
Assessed — Then the Town Treasurer may be directed to borrow
a sufficient Sum for the said purpose, which Sum so borrowed shall
334 CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
be repaid out of the first Moneys collected from the next Tax
Assessed on the Town.
All which is Submitted
TIIO" . DA WES p Order
The aforegoing Report having been read, and considered the
Town came into the following Votes. Viz1.
Voted, that the Sum of Six hundred Pounds be raised by a Tax
on the Polls and Rateable Estates of the Inhabitants of this Town,
for the purpose of procuring such Lamps as may be wanted [294.]
with their Materials, and to defrey the Expences which may be
necessary for the lighting the Lamps ; and that said Sum be Added
to the next Tax that shall be issued in a Seperate Coll u in.
Voted, that the Selectmen be desired to draught a Subscription
Paper and deliver the same into the Hands of the four Collectors
of Taxes who are hereby directed to apply to the Inhabitants
forthwith, to obtain by way of Subscription a Sum of Money not
exceeding Six hundred Pounds for the purpose of purchasing
Lamps and the Materials and lighting the Same, and pay the
Money into the Town Treasury as soon as received for which Sum
the Treasurer is hereby impowered and directed to give said Sub-
scribers a Recept, to be deducted out of their Next Town Tax.
On a Motion Voted, that the Treasurer be directed to acquaint
the Severall Collectors of Taxes that such Collectors as shall be
Delinquent with respect to paying in their Tax on the first of Feb-
ruary next, his Executions will be then Issued against such Collector.
Voted, that all Matters and things [295.] which remain un-
finished at this Meeting be referred to the next General Town
Meeting then to be Acted upon.
Thanks Voted to the Moderator.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
INDEX OF NAMES.
Adams, 2, 14, 52, 62, 65, 70, 75, 83, 86, 87, 89,
90, 91, 97, 99, 100, 107, 115, 125, 136,
137, 138, 150, 151, 171, 184, 185, 193,
198, 200, 211, 212, 217, 220, 221, 224,
226, 235, 241, 243, 244, 245, 248,253,
254, 255, 256, 258, 261, 270, 271, 275,
277, 292, 305, 306, 307, 308, 310, 315.
Alexander, 301.
Allen, 53, 60.
Ainory, 92, 184, 185, 190, 229, 299.
Andrews, 5, 114, 115, 236, 267.
Appleton, 8,20, 22,28,37,40,64, 73,81,83,98,
123, 125, 127, 142, 143, 144, 145,
147, 153, 155, 163, 164, 165, 167,
180, 208, 209, 212, 220, 222, 231,
266, 287, 290, 294, 304, 308, 309,
311, 325, 326, 330.
Arnold, 229.
Atkins, 36, 161, 190, 266.
Austin, 1, 2, 3, 40, 49, 63, 65, 67, 71, 98, 114,
137, 151, 152, 156, 201, 203, 204, 245,
258, 308.
Avery, 15, 33, 34, 87, 124, 194, 245, 308.
Avis, 175, 185.
Aynes, 296.
Ayres, 5, 51, 229, 296.
Babcock, 271.
Baker, 52, 54, 73, 92, 191, 230.
Balch, 325, 326, 330.
Bales, 94.
Baley, 6, 11.
Ballard, 4, 5, 6, 36, 40, 45, 46, 47, 48, 50, 51,
70, 73, 77, 84, 88, 90, 95, 97, 99, 102,
110, 136, 143, 149, 162, 174, 183, 186,
187, 188, 190, 191, 228, 229, 232, 242,
266, 295, 300.
Bangs, 5, 51, 111, 175, 229, 296.
Bant, 4, 13, 39.
Barber, 2, 4, 36, 48, 49, 78, 92, 93, 97, 109, 116,
136, 143, 162, 173, 183,187,190, 225,
228, 230, 236, 297, 300.
Barnard, 51,92.
Barrel, 2, 9, 12, 15, 16, 20, 22, 24, 54, 55, 56,
58, 59, 63, 69, 70, 73, 84, 88, 92, 120,
142, 148, 151, 166, 176, 177. 180, 184,
191, 197, 199, 202, 212, 233, 238, 243,
285, 301, 311, 319, 325, 326, 330.
Barrcll, 162, 185, 199, 256, 267, 294, 295, 299,
300, 304.
Barret, 3, 4, 8, 21, 31, 37, 39, 40, 50, 69, 70, 74,
7(5, 84, 92, 93, 110, 113, 114, 117, 119,
123, 144, 162, 167, 171, 173, 176, 190,
209, 210, 217, 220, 227, 236, 243, 252,
•257, 277, 278, 292, 308.
Barrett, 21, 54, 63, 78, 152, 156, 167, 267.
Bartlett, 324.
Bass, 46, 143, 230, 235, 236.
Baxter, 5, 188.
Bayley,96, 111, 174, 186, 191, 200, 240, 249,
263, 264, 268, 297, 316.
Beal, 198, 203.
Belcher, 49, 97, 160, 162, 236.
Belknap, 11, 95, 125, 181, 186, 190, 266.
Bell, 27, 36, 51, 111, 118, 168, 174, 209, 210,
2-29, 230, 236, 296, 329.
Bennet, 51, 53.
Bent, 191, 299.
Bentley, 71.
Bently, 25, 31, 35, 103.
Bernard, 5, 111.
Bigelow, 53, 120.
Biggelow, 92, 118, 228.
Bird, 51, 175, 229.
Blaisdel, 5, 51, 111, 174, 232.
Blaisdill, 296.
Blake, 51.
Blanchard, 60.
Boardman, 266.
Bond, 177.
Bowdoin, 40, 83, 89, 95, 150, 151, 245, 255,
256, 257, 307.
Bowes, 3, 18, 50, 69, 102, 106, 110, 173, 227, 292.
Boyce, 109.
Boyer, 21, 30, 227, 230, 234, 235, 250, 252, 256,
294, 300, 312, 315,316, 321.
Boyls, 109, 143.
Bradford, 92, 181, 183, 217, 222.
Bradley, 5, 6, 51, 52.
Bradshaw, 92.
Brailsford, 89.
Breck, 39, 60, 88,115, 154.
Brewer, 118, 120, 128.
Brewster, 54.
Brick, 58, 64, 91, 109,114, 118, 122, 140, 153,
165, 168, 285, 296, 301.
Bridghara, 166.
Bright, 54.
Brimer, 255. •
Brimmer, 11, 12, 16, 59, 98,114, 140, 162, 168,
177, 197, 202, 230, 256, 299.
Broders, 309.
Bronafield, 20.
Broom, 142, 151, 154, 255, 256, 270, 271, 280.
Brown, 6, 12, 14, 33, 36, 37, 40, 45, 47, 53, 54,
58, 71, 88, 90,91,92,93,95,97,111,
114, 115, 117, 118, 120, 158, 159, 163
170,171, 1(2,175,176, 183, 192,196,
197, 220, 224, 225, 226, 229, 231, 233,
235, 241, 266, 296, 299.
Bruce, 91, 168.
Bryant, 92, 118, 120.
Bulfinch, 51, 110, 178, 229.
Bullard, 11.
Bumstead, 173, 296.
Bumsted, 230.
Burd, 296.
Barrel, 113, 175.
Burt, 235.
Butler, 5, 51, 110, 174, 229.
Butterfield, 242, 293.
Bnttler, 295.
Byles, 5, 10, 189, 203, 232.
Cable, 92,
Cade, 111, 296, 305.
Call, 92.
Callender, 4, 190, 267.
Campbell, 6.
Cane, 46.
Carnes, 5, 10, 51, 60, 110, 113, 174, 229, 299.
Cams, U2.
Carrew, 177.
Carter, 25, 31, 58, 71, 103, 198, 223-, 228, 234,
286, 320.
Champney, 5, 51, 111, 173, 174, 295.
336
CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Chase, 82.
Cheever, 324.
Child, 111.
Clark, 5, 49, 53, 92, 97, 100, 101, 143, 173,177,
184, 185, 187, 190, 193, 2«3, 268, 269,
308, 309, 324.
Clarke, 89, 186.
Cleverly, 6.
Clough, 51, 52, 60, 74, 111, 113, 175, 192, 229,
296, 305.
Cobbet, 5.
Cobbit, 186, 188.
Codman, 113, 267.
Coggshell, 6.
Cogswell, 74, 113, 143, 175, 186, 187, 230, 296.
Collins, 11, 51, 136, 178, 229, 295.
Collie, 270.
Colman, 228.
Colson, 5, 37, 40, 47, 51, 89, 100, 111, 123, 128,
175, 191, 230, 296.
Couant, 50, 228.
Conday, 116.
Condy', 12, 89.
Conent, 128, 262.
Conner, 242, 293, 306.
Cook, 52, 92, 93, 118, 120, 143, 175, 204.
Coolidge, 54, 92, 113, 267.
Cooper, 2, 3, 4, 28, 34, 37, 40, 48, 49, 50, 64,
79, 80, 107, 108, 109, 115, 125, 129,
148, 155, 158, 159, 172, 173, 219, 225,
226, 228, 275, 290, 292, 293, B22.
Copeland, 89, 230, 296.
Corbit, 52, 111.
Cotta, 111.
Cowell, 5.
Crafts, 4, 5, 15, 19, 36, 75, 76, 77, 78, 95, 100,
102, 104, 106, 249, 328.
Cranch, 151, 308.
Crane, HI, 229.
Crocker, 54.
Croswell, 198, 223, 234.
Cruft, 190, 192.
Cudworth, 7, 59, 117, 118, 122, 240.
Cumberfoot, 6.
Curies, 92.
Curtis. 52, 89, 109, 111, 175, 230, 296, 310.
Cushing, 20, 21, 22, 29, 31, 101, 113; 124, 150,
151, 193, 245, 307.
Ball, 71.
Danforth, 15.
Daniels, 51, 111, 175, 229.
Davenport, 198.
Daverson, 53.
Davidson, 123.
Davis, 4, 16, 18, 26, 32, 34, 37, 39, 49, 50, 53,
54, 55, 56, 62, 65, 70, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77,
87, 88, 89, 92, 93, 100, 109, 110, 115,
136, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 156, 161,
165, 167, 168, 173, 177, 184, 193, 196,
217, 220, 221, 223, 2:28, 230, 231, 233,
234, 238, 239, 240, 245, 266, 271, 286,
293, 308, 309, 320, 321.
Dawes, 52, 56, 65, 75, 76, 78, 114, 156, 165,
167, 171, 180, 183, 187, 208, 236, 246,
300,311,317,323,334.
Daws, 7, 8, 11, 15, 16, 21, 24, 62, 67, 68, 69,
83, 99, 113, 114, 125, 136, 148, 151,
152, 153, 161, 162, 166, 170, 171, 196,
209, 210, 211, 221, 222, 226, 237, 238,
241, 247, 266, 280, 294, 295, 304, 308,
309, 310, 311, 312, 315, 322, 325. 326,
328, 329, 330.
Dellaway, 111,174, 296.
Deming, 151, 299.
Dennie, 91, 151,164.
Dennison, 71.
Devens, 28, 89, 155.
Dexter, 308, 324.
Dinsdel, 113, 239.
Dinsdell, 175, 232.
Doak, 191.
Doake, 188.
Doan, 113.
Dogget, 6.
Dorr, 3, 4, 8, 16, 34, 37, 40, 49, 88, 89, 107, 108,
112, 120, 154, 168, 169, 171, 172, 183,
187, 227, 232, 236, 292.
Downe, 185.
Dowse, 46.
Dyer, 4, 5, 6, 51, 52, 53, 111, 117, 120, 175, 185.
229, 237, 290.
Eckert, 111.
Eckley, 172, 307.
Edes, 7, 36, 37, 40, 45, 47, 52, 88, 89, 90, 95,
100, 118, 123, 151, 173, 186, 187, 266,
296, 297.
Edwards, 109, 266.
Elect, 102, 190.
Eliot, 50, 74, 131, 135, 148, 173, 184, 185, 235,
266, 292, 311.
Elliot, 294, 304.
Ellison, 5.
Eustis, 5, 113.
Everet, 77.
Fairservice, 44.
Fallas; 89, 316.
Fallass, 175, 186, 187, 264, 267, 316.
Farmer, 231, 239.
Farnam, 111.
Farrington, 109, 165.
Fellows, 3, 4, 7, 39, 40, 49, 50, 54, 55, 62, 74,
78, 79, 80, 91, 92, 108, 110, 158,
159, 160, 162, 170, 172, 174, 176,
227, 228, 267, 292, 293, 294, 298.
Fenno, 73, 111, 113, 174, 229, 296.
Fisher, 151, 193, 245, 308.
Fleet, 6, 233, 298.
Flood, 36.
Ford, 50, 92.
Fosdick.177.
Foster, 6, 37, 39, 45, 53, 64, 7.",, 93, 122, 185,
229.
Fowle, 235.
Fraizer, 95.
Frazier, 4, 8, 11, 24, 40, 49, 98, 102, 108, 136,
142, 143, 145, 162, 171, 172, ISO, 192,
199, 225, 227, 228, 258, 262, 265.267,
269, 270, 292, 293, 298, 325.
Freeland, 111.
Freeman, 91.
Frobisher, 118.
Fullerton, 59, 12:;.
Gage, 328. • '
Gammel, 180.
Gardner, 15, 37, 151, 181, 189, 195, 230.
Gates, 39, 42, 43, 44.
Gedney, 53, 192.
Gerry, 307.
Geyer, 2-12, 297.
Gidney, 6.
Gooch, 18, 75, 177.
Gore, 173, 184, 296.
Gorham, 101.
Gould, 299.
Grant, 4, 13, 40, 47, 59, 89, 162, 232, 241, 290.
Gray, 1, 2, 6, 15, 18, 28, 37, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55,
56, 63, 64, 68, 70, 73, 83, 89, 93, 95, 98,
102, 106, 107, 113, 114, 115, 119,123,
127, 129, 136, 137, 138, 145, 149, 151,
154, 155, 156, 158, 159, 160, 162, 163,
164, 171, 176, 177, 180, 184, 1,85, 193,
232, 239, 240.
Greanleaff, 150.
Green, 4, 5, 6, 7, 52, 53, 73, 92, 100, 111, 113,
123, 151, 175, 178, 229, 230, 233, 236,
291, 296, 297, 299.
Greene, 228.
Greenleaf, 34, 49, 60, 108, 189, 195, 266, 306,
310, 320.
Greenleaff, 1, 2, 3, 12, 189, 315.
Greenough, 3, 4, 12, 49, 161, 298.
Grenough, 40.
Griffis, 204.
INDEX OF NAMES.
337
Haley, 5.
Hall, 11, 12, 36, 92, 190, 191, 266.
Hamlin, 12, 52, 175, 230, 296, 299.
Haraling, 111.
Haromat, 52.
Hancock, 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 10, 13, 16, 18,19,20,27,
28, 29, 31, 3-J, 47, 48, 49, 50, 52, 58,
59, 62, 63, 64, 65, 70, 72, 73, 74, 82,
83, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 110, 112,
116, 136, 137, 138, 145, 146, 150, 155,
158, 159, 171, 173, 174, 193, 220, 221,
222, 225, 228, 231 , 243, 245, 263, 271,
290, 307, 322.
Hancok, 297.
Harris, 6, 53, 60, 117, 185, 187.
Hart, 46.
Hatch, 16, 17, 18, 19, 59, 76. 77, 96, 110, 174,
•228, 249, 251, 293, 328.
Hayden, 111, 175, 188, 229, 296, 301.
Hayley, 111, 230.
Hay ward, 11.
Head, 228.
Heath, 16, 69, 150.
Henderson, 7, 8, 12, 28, 240.
Hendley, 87, 92, 164.
Hendly, 39.
Henley, 87, 95.
Hewes, 3, 187, 188.
Hews, 50, 77, 102, 186, 189, 192.
Heyley, 51, 175.
Higgerson, 73.
Higginson, 64, 70, 87, 88, 98, 99, 100, 115, 140,
142, 153, 154, 155, 162, 163, 165,
168, 169, 176, 180, 192, 196, 199,
205, 206, 212, 217, 220, 246, 247,
252, 254, 271.
Hill, 75, 92, 100, 104, 266.
Hinckley, 36.
Hinkley, 113.
Hitchborne, 104.
Hitchbourn, 277,285.
Hitchbourne, 221.
HHchburne, 7, 11, 52, 64, 74, 88, 190, 250, 266,
296.
Hodgden, 162, 163, 220.
Hod gen, 236.
Hodgsdon, 238.
Hodsdon, 202. »
Hodson, 141.
Holbrook, 25, 31, 57, 71, 103, 123, 124.
Holeyday, 263.
Holland, 173, 239.
Holleyday, 263.
Hollyday, 240, 242, 243, 263.
Homans, 123.
Hoskins, 79, 80, 88, 90, 92, 95, 118.
Houghton, 92, 118, 120.
How, 295.
Howard, 51, 111, 115, 152, 174, 229, 244, 296.
Hubbard, 39, 45, 92, 110, 153, 159, 171, 172,
290, 292.
Hunnewell, 47.
Hunt, 25, 31, 35, 71, 102, 103, 104, 147, 191,
197, 220, 223, 233, 286, 293, 320.
Hurd, 101.
Hyslop,299.
Inches, 4, 8, 16, 39, 64.
Ingersol, 50.
Jackson, 113, 150.
Jarvis, 73, 76, 77, 79, 80, 83, 88, 89, 90, 93, 95,
98, 100, 138, 142, 144, 154, 161, 162,
163, 176, 180, 193, 196, 228, 246, 247,
254, 271, 277, 285, 294, 295, 304, 310,
311.
Jeffries, 4, 7, 14, 18, 25, 26, 27, 51, 53, 54, 55,
65, 68, 105, 112, 114, 146, 147, 149,
158, 159, 174, 177, 202, 208, 210, 227,
234, 240, 250, 256, 287, 298, 321,331.
Jenkins, 50, 51, 297.
Jepson, 11, 14, 53, 123, 236.
Johnson, 33, 236.
Johonnot, 32, 33, 34, 92, 144.
Johonnott, 33.
Johonott, 33.
Jones, 74, 168, 188, 191, 230, 239, 256, 260, 266,
293, 299.
Jonsey, 92.
Joy, il.
Kemp, 299, 305.
Kennedy, 40, 47, 59, 60, 88, 123, 230, 293, 296.
Kent, 14, 277, 279, 287, 280, 31o.
Ketchum, 92.
Ketchup, 92.
Kettle, 50, 231.
King, 92.
Kirkwood, 232, 233.
Kitchen, 93. •
Knap, 118,120.
Kneeland, 48, 88, 91, 92, 95, 104, 105, 107, 143,
162, 185, 233, 298.
Knox, .~>4, 71.
LaFayette, 217, 218.
Lambert, 5, 6, 36, 53, 58, 74, 113, 174, 175, 230.
Langdon, 162, 236.
Langford, 329.
Langley, 230, 297.
Larkin, 92, 185.
Larking, 190, 266.
Law, 55, 92,
Leaverett, 60.
Lincoln, 245, 307.
Livingston, 28.
Loring, 18, 136, 184, 229, 230, 236, 296.
Lotherop, 115, 150.
Lothrop, 246.
Love, 93.
Lovel, 113, 246, 257, 308, 310.
Lovell, 246, 247, 256.
Lovering, 37, 40, 4i, 47, 89.
Lowder, 6, 117, 185, 233, 298.
Lows!, 128, 308, 311, 321, 325.
Lowell, 4, 12, 18, 48, 49, 50, 53, 54, 58, 59, 60,
63, 64, 67, 83, 102, 103, 106, 107, 108,
109, 110, 114, 115, 119, 127, 129, 136,
143, 150, 151, 152,156, 160, 161, 164,
171, 174, 176, 178, 193, 196, 208, 209,
220, 221, 222, 228, 230, 236, 245, 246,
247, 271, 293, 299, 316, 319.
Lucas, 6, 39, 50, 52, 89, 91, 109, 112, 113, 114,
128, 154, 162, 163, 178, 183, 187, 212,
220, 222, 224, 225, 231, 236, 238, 256,
267, 285, 297, 300.
Mackay, 84, S5, 97, 108, 143, 170, 172, 184,
185, 226, 227, 232.
Mackey, 85, 162, 197, 236.
Macky, 292.
Magner, 232,239, 240.
Marsh, 186, 187.
Marshall, 191.
Marsters, 329.
Marston, 12, 59.
Martin, 78.
Mason, 3, 50, 56, 92, 106, 107, 109, 110, 113,
117, 124, 171,173, 199, 212, 227,228,
oog 292
Masters, 5, 52, 111, 175, 230, 296, 329.
Matchet, 93, 96.
Mather, 61.
May, 4, 51, 53, 117, 168, 174, 185, 2:13, 267,
298.
McCIoud, 188, 299.
McElary, 296.
McKlroy, 230,329.
McFadden, 5, 188, 192, 296, 306.
McLane, 37, 242.
McLeod, 232.
McNeil, 229, 295.
McNiel, 4, 37, 299.
Melvil, 50, 89, 93.
Melvill, 79, 80, 99, 108, 110, 116, 228, 236, 255,
258, 293, 299, 316.
Melville, 76, 109, 163, 173, 174, 212, 224, 230,
231, 236, 266, 297.
338
CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Melvin, 76.
Miller, 191, 205, 206, 299.
Minot, 224,225,226.
Minzey, 51.
Mollineux, 91.
Monk, 2, 108, 172, 226.
Moor, 5, 51, 229.
Moraton, 268.
Morcton, 78, 333.
Morrel, 177.
Morrill, 299.
Morton, 2, 4, 22, 32, 48, 55, 60, 63, 129, 131,
212, 269, 285, 294, 295, 305, 332.
Mountford, 190.
Mourton, 277. m
Neal, 5.
Neat, 296.
Newel, 305.
Newell, 6, 21, 31, 109, 128, 177, 190, 236, 256,
267, 311, 329.
Newman, 113.
Nightingale, 92.
Niles, 193.
Norcross, 51, 110, 171, 229.
Noyes, 34, 37, 79, 8n, 128, 280.
Nyles, 151, 245, 308.
Oliver, 58, 115, 175.
Oru, 150.
Orne, 193, 245, 307.
Osgood, 249.
Otis, 24, 83, 144, 14.i, 196, 197, 199, 205, 206,
209, 210, 212, 247, 267, 289, 290, 306,
308.
Owen, 5, 51, 111, 175, 230, 296.
Page, 5, 174, 229, 296.
Paine, 3'>3.
Palfrey, 107.
Parker, 18, 36, 74, 92, 143, 162, 183, 184, 185,
187, 190, 264, 2b6, 269, 316.
Parkman, 2, 36, 93, 111, 128, 162, 193, 226, 235,
236, 245, 266, 290.
Parks, 6, 52, 53, 110, 111, 113, 118, 123.
Parsons, 293.
Partridge, 3, 50, 59, 60, 110, 173, 227, 292.
Patten, 118, 232, 293.
Patterson, 172, 226, 291.
Payne, 64, 115,151,154, 158,168,176, 199, 202,
212, 220, 221, 240, 243, 252, 255, 256,
259, 2(55, 266, 268, 270, 271,287,299,
308, 316, 319, 325.
Payson, 229, 286, 321, 324.
Peake, 175.
Peirce, 100, 115, 162, 163, 166, 236, 255.
1'eke, 113.
Pemberton, 189.
Pepper, 34.
Perkins, 92.
Perry, 52.
Phelps, 205, 206, 207, 209, 249, 253.
Philips, 310.
Phillips, 3, 4, 18, 33, 50, 79, 80, 98, 100, 110,
151, 173, 193, 199, 212, 227, 226,
231, 236, 242, 245, 255, 258, 267,
292, 293, 297, 308, 309, 327, 328.
Pico, 5, 51, 109, 111, 175, 230, 296.
Pierce, 39, 58, 89, 91,92, 114, 115, 118, 120, 181.
Pitts, 1, 2, 3, 18, 24, 92, 107, 150, 151, 193, 245,
252, 308, 309, 319, 320.
Plimpton, 230.
Pollard, 37.
Porter, 92.
Powell, 3, 50, 64, 110, 150, 151, 173, 193, 227,
245, 256, 292, 308.
Prentice, 54, 71, 73, 79, 80, 91, 92, 100, 109,
270,311,321,326,330.
Presson, 229.
Preston, 1, 2, 3, 40, 47, 48, 49, 106, 107, 108,
120, 162, 170, 171, 172, 224, 22o,
226, 231, 237, 290, 291.
Price, 7, 8, 13, 16, 21, 22, 24, 28, 30, 34, 37, 40,
48, 49, 54, 58, 60, 69, 77, 84, 87, 88,90,
91, 102, 104, 106, 107, 108, 114, 137,
138, 154, 158, 159, 160, 168, 171, 172,
180, 192, 199, 225, 226, 227, 256, 261,
265, 271, 280, 287, 290, 292, 294, 304,
305, 308, 309, 310, 316, 319, 333.
Prince, 58, 60, 74, 78, 96, 114, 115, 120, 162,
178, 181, 184, 230, 236, 296, 3ul.
Procter, 3, 16, 54, 59,78, 79, 80, 93. 110, 116,
128, 141, 142, 173, 191, 224, 236, 259.
Procter, 4, 34, 36, 50, 59, 100, 139, 141, 145,
146, 160, 161, 163, 173, 227, 228,
244, 249, 251, 258, 256, 261, 266,
271, 292, 293, 297, 328.
Pulling, 4, 50, 53, 74, 79, 80, 88, 110, 116, 117,
162, 173, 190, 228, 233, 297, 298.
Pulsipher, 52.
Rand, 92.
Ranger, 5, 51, 111, 174, 229, 295.
Rashambeau, 279.
Kuvnard, 111, 175.
Read, 75, 118, 124, 184, 185, 236.
Reed, 10, 16, 44, 113, 267.
Reviere, 4, 50.
Rhodes, 109.
Rice, 186.
Richardson, 88.
Roads, 47.
Roberts, 4.
Robey, 162.
Robins, 92.
Roby, 177.
Rochambeau, 278.
Rochambeaue, 278.
Rodes, 293.
Rogers, 51, 111, 113, 180, 188, 229, 242, 293,
296.
Roshambeau, 276.
Rouse, 181.
Rowe, 37, 39, 75, 84, 85, 88, 91, 93, 95, 98, 101,
102, 103, 138, 152, 156, 193, 200, 205,
206, 238, 246, 247, 308, 312.
Ruddock, 266, 297.
Ruggles, 37, 47, 49, 53, 56, 68, 70, 71, 79, 80,
86, 91, 100, 116, 153, 166, 171, 173,
185, 189, 228, 233, 242, 243, 263,
297, 298, 299.
Rumml. 2>9.
Russel, 17ti, 230, 319.
Russell, 39, 73, 92, 176, 180, 182,192, 199, 256,
267, 268, 269.
Sale, 324.
Baiter, 190.
Sargent, 324.
Savage, 33, 173, 240.
Scollay, 2, 3, 4, 37, 40, 48, 49, 50, 54, 75, 92,
94, 103, 108, 109, 1K7, 138, 154, 158,
160, 168, 171, 172, 173, 197, 210,
225, 226, 228, 258, 266, 286, 290,
292, 293, 328.
Scolly, 258.
Searl, 192.
Sears, 54, 71, 73, 84, 88, 89, 90, 91, 93, 95, 97,
166, 236, 271, 2SO, 285.
Seers, 88.
Sever, 150.
Sharp, 8, 11, 37, 39, 73, 79, 80, 88, 183, 187,
188, 203, 230, 296.
Shaw, 4, 7, 36, 50, 88, 109, 116, 121, 122, 162,
166, 173, 186, 228, 240, 249, 263, 266,
293 316
Shed, 37, 47/89, 91, 95, 230, 297.
Sheppard, 185.
Sherburn, 268.
Sherman, 38, 113, 175.
Sigoney, 54, 161, 298.
Sigorney, 6, 11, 36, 74, 88, 117, 128, 175, 184,
191, 231, 233. 266, 290.
Sigourney, 50, 190, 255.
Sillman, 129.
Simkins, 4, 14, 109, 112, 124, 166, 260.
Simms, 251.
Simpkins, 49, 61, 64, 68, 128, 190, 236, 249, 267.
INDEX OF XAMKS.
339
Simpson, 5, 52, 113, 175, 188, 232, 243, 293,
296.
Skinner, 6, 52, 113, 230, 297, 300.
Sloon, 92.
Smith, 3,40, 50, 73,80, 83, 88,92, 110, 140,
154, 164, 166, 173, 177, 180, 192,
197, 212, 227, 232, 262, 267, 292,
293, 294, 297.
Snelltng, 175.
Soames, 236.
Somes, 91, 191.
Speakman. 184, 308.
Spear, 5, 52, 53, 74, 118, 123, 175, 230, 296,
299.
Speekraan, 93.
Spooner, 150.
Sprague, 60, 198.
Stagpole, 118.
Stagpoole, 120.
Stanton, 128.
Stimpson, 229.
Stoddar, 296.
Stoddard, 27, 111, 174, 296.
Stodder, 229, 295.
Storer, 7, 52, 83, 114, 123, 148, 177, 245.
Storey, 187,
Story, 183, 268.
Stutson, 174, 229.
Sullivan, 275, 277, 305, 308, 309, 311, 317, 322,
329, 332, 333.
Sumner, 7, 36, 53, 54, 55, 58, 60, 93, 116, 121,
122, 151, 166, 186, 193, 200, 230,
240, 245, 249, 262, 296, 297, 316.
Button, 74.
Swectser, 3, 6, 8, 39, 50, 52, 73, 84, 108, 110,
112, 113, 117, 124, 131, 173, 178,
222, 227, 231, 292, 326, 330.
Sweet zer, 297.
Syllimau, 151.
Symmes, 4, 5.
Symms, 49, 60, 73, 116, 162, 174, 183, 187.
Syms, 50, 110, 190, 228, 236.
Templeman, 228.
Thayer, 50, 58, 115, 191, 230, 297, 308.
Thomas, 6, 204, 297.
Thompson, 55, 89, 117, 121, 122, 166, 178, 186,
200, 240, 249, 263, 297, 316.
Thwinsr, 113.178.
Tileston, 4, 25, 31, 37, 50, 58, 71, 99, 103, 110,
162, 174, 191, 19T, 198, 223, 228,
234, 236, 286, 293, 320, 321.
Todd, 5, 51, 229, 296.
Torey, 240.
Torrey, 55, 122, 166.
Torry, 7, 116.
Tory, 231.
Tracy, 193, 245.
Tuckerman, 52, 111, 175, 184, 185, 231, 297.
Tuder, 47, 48.
Tudor, 48, 60, 62, 65, 100, 102, 103, 104, 105,
107, 112, 113, 115, 116, 122, 124, 125,
131, 139, 140, 141, 142, 144, 145, 146,
147, 148, 149, 151, 158, 159, 167, 178,
180, 184, 190, 194, 196, 231, 277, 279,
280, 285, 295, 300, 305, 311, 322, 325,
QQO
Tuffts, 151, 19*3, 232.
Tufu, 245, 293, 308.
Tyler, 177.
Tyng, 16, 326.
Uraq, 5, 40, 47, 51, 89, 111, 174, 229, 296.
Van Ilanselier, 139.
Varnum, 92.
Vernon, 177, 190, 266.
Vezie, 188, 189, 191.
Vinal, 223, 224, 2M4, 286, 287, 321.
Vinall, 234.
Viomenil, 276, 277, 278.
Wait, 173.
Wales, 5, 51, 111, 175, 308.
Walker, 33. 102.
Walley, 6, 8, 10, 16, 21, 28, 31, 32, 34, 37, 52,
55, 56, 62, 65, 67, 69, 70, 73, 88, 89, 95,
100, 101, 131, 136, 143, 145, 152, 153,
156, 162, 165, 204, 205, 206, 208, 212,
217, 220, 230, 253, 256, 267, 268, 271,
309, 310, 312, 316, 319, 321, 331.
Wallis, 173, 177.
Wally, 39.
Ward, 150.
Warren, 150, 245, 263, 279, 280, 286, 307, 322,
:vj4.
Washington, 17,278.
Waters, 109, 113, 114, 116, 120, 144, 154, 162,
163, 182, 202, 225, 230, 236,238,293,
311,317.
Webb, 4, 12, 16, 37, 39, 49, 50, 52, 59, 110, 161,
162, 163, 173, 174, 227, 228, 236, 267,
292, 293, 299.
Webster, 236.
Welch, 113, 175, 184, 185, 203, 229, 290.
Wells, 59, 92, 162, 236.
Welsh, 290, 291,324.
Wendell, 3, 18, 24, 83, 149, 150, 151, 235, 299.
Wcntworth, 118.
Whalley, 224.
Wheeler, 5, 7, 52, 293.
Wheelwright, 5, 51, 92.
White, 3, 6, 10, 39, 50, 51, 52, 90, 94, 109, 110,
112,113,123,136,151, 173, 174, 178,
193, 197, 227, 229, 231, 235, 262, 266,
292, 297, 306, 308.
Whiting, 229.
Whitney, 186, 232, 293.
Whitwell, 3, 8, 50, 92, 110, 173, 220, 227, 232,
292, 326, 330.
Wier, 37, 59.
Wight, 18, 196.
Wild, 173.
Williams, 3, 4, 6, 12, 21, 22, 40, 45, 49, 52, 59,
92, 93, 102, 112, 124,178, 236, 204,
266, 268, 293, 316.
Willis, 85.
Williston,175.
Willson, 47, 79, 88, 89, 90, 91, 93, 95.
Wilson, 80.
Winslow, 92, 299.
Wintherop, 110.
Winthrop, 4, 22, 28, 49, 50, 174, 177, 228,
252.
Wiswell, 53, 58.
Woart, 186, 187.
Woodward, 5.
Wyer, 123.
INDEX TO PLACES AND SUBJECTS.
Accounts, 116, 117, 121, 122, 157, 181, 182,
195, 199, 201, 211, 223, 258, 2(58,
327, 328.
to audit, 7, 177, 300, 312.
of town treasurer, 7, 52, 53, 65,
114,117,201, 202,230,231, 240,
243, 248, 254, 255, 259, 2fiO.
overseers of the poor, 7, 53, 114,
177, 230, 231.
sale and purchase of fire-arms,
11, 12.
collectors, 122, 123.
Mr. Justice Greenleaf, 189, 195.
Amasa Davis, 239, 241.
with board of war, 244.
selectmen, 249.
expenditures of the war, 249.
Capt. Gustavus Fellows, 158.
Act, exclusion, 32.
(See also Renegades.)
against Monopoly and Forestalling, 46,
47,81.
(See also Bill to prevent forestalling
and monopoly.)
to supply the families of certain non-
comniittaioned officers and soldiers
with necessaries, 115.
relative to taxes, 169.
tender (no-called), 177.
for the more effectual observance of the
Lord's Day, 277, 280-85.
Address to John Hancock, 158.
Marquis Lafayette, 217-18.
Baron Viomenil, 276-77.
Advertising, see Newspapers.
Agrioulture, 13, 314.
Aliens, 71.
law relative to, 71.
(See also Laws.)
Allies, 276-77.
Almshouse, 10, 29, 30, 56, 176, 191, 242, 249,
315, 318.
supplies for, 10, 30, 54, 55, 56, 57,
98, 242.
appropriation for, 57, 149.
pressing need of, 189, 190, 205,
242.
keeper of, 239.
salary of, 239. _
Amusements, 228.
Anniversary, change of the institution of,
on the 5th of March, report
on, 304-305.
of the Independence, 291, 294,
295, 305.
Apple Island, an innoculating hospital at,
to erect, 323, W4.
(See also Islands.)
(See alio Hospital.)
Appropriation for the almshouse, 57.
families of non-com-
missioned officers
and soldiers, 61.
building new school-
house, 238.
Armies, standing, ruinous tendency of, 2, 9,
48, 49, 107, 108, 171, 172, 225, 226,
290.
foreign, 214.
Arms and ammunition, 11, 12, 67, 68, 77,
244, 251, 252, 258, 259, 326, 327,
328.
proceeds of damaged fire-arms, 11.
purchase of, 12, 59.
assigned to the town, 59, 231.
firing of small, on the Common, 326.
Neck, 326.
poor quality of, 77.
small arms to return, 244.
loan of, asked for, 77.
list of, 77.
disposal of eighty, to militia officers of
the town, five hundred eighty-seven
to Col. Edward Proctor, 78.
cartridges, 78, 231, 244, 251, 259.
powder, 213.
Army, continental, see Continental.
neglect of, 23.
Artillery, state, 77.
(See also Troops.)
Assay masters, 6, 52, 113, 178, 230, 297.
Assembly or General Court, 6, 8, 18, 22, 34.
42, 47, 59, 61,
63, 64, 65, 66,
84, 102, 112,
120, 122, 128,
133, 135, 136,
137, 138, 140,
142,146, 153,
154, 155, 160,
167, 169, 175,
176,179, 180,
196, 197, 198,
200,203, 204,
205, 207, 214-
15, 219, 221,
242,246, 247,
249, 254, 256,
257,258, 264,
265,273, 277,
279,283, 285,
309,310, 312,
315,319, 322,
324,331.
demand for jus-
tice, 20.
resolve of
(Sept. 29,
1778), 10, 14.
resolve of
(June 10.
1778), 26, 27.
resolve of
(June 10,
1777), 11.
resolve of
(May 6, 1777),
78.
re sol vc of
(Dec. 2), 161.
resolve of
(Dec. 4), 165,
167, 168.
memorial to, 9,
10, 13, 19, 20,
21, 280-85.
exclusion act,
32, 33, 34, 35.
INDEX TO PLACES AND SUBJECTS.
341
Assembly or General Court, petitioned to
import grain
from New
Yo rk and
Connecticut,
38.
bill to prevent
forests 1 1 i n g
and monop-
oly, 38, 42, 43,
44, 46, 47.
legislative and
e xe c utive
branches of,
abuses, 23.
to enact laws
relative to
renegades, 28.
resolve for pro-
curement of
clothing for
the army, -'.',
30.
to supply fam-
ilies of cer-
tain non-com-
missioned of-
f ice r s and
soldiers, 115.
measures t o
take for pro-
tection of the
sea-c oasts,
119.
resolve of the,
relative t o
forming a
new constitu-
tion, 83.
representatives
elected to, 18,
24, 61, 62, 63,
86.
Assessors, 7, 30, 59, 60, 106, 116, 121, 145,
149, 154, 163, 167, 174, 179, 182,
194, 198, 207, 209, 212, 217, 219,
237, 253, 254, 262, 264, 269, 270,
318, 325.
choice of, 6, 7, 53, 116, 117, 18?,
187, 192, 229, 232, 233, 298.
abatement of taxes, 7, 10, 20, 53,
114, 117, 121, 123, 183, 197, 237,
248, 249, 251, 253, 263, 279, 287,
289, 298.
books of, 179, 251, 256, 288.
ask for allowance, 30.
granted, 31,
106, 149,
325.
to levy taxes more equitably, 56.
allowance, 72, 106, 221.
to prepare abstract of valuation
of the town, 180.
in case of want of valuation, 182.
Assize of bread, see Breadstuff s.
Attorney -general, the, 274.
Bakers, 36, 46, 92.
combination of, to prevent, 266, 267.
(See also Trades.)
Barbers, 79.
(See alao Trades.)
Barracks, petition to erect, 69.
Battalions, see Troops.
Battery, North, 136, 138, 149, 185, 187, 188,
220.
to sell, 189, 220.
South, 153, 155.
Beacon Hill, 57, 72.
trespasses on, 57.
Beef, 10, 81, 102, 152, 153, 157, 165, 166, 167,
16S, 169, 181, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208,
209, 242, 249, 253, 264.
(See also Provisions.)
Bell's wharf, 92.
(See also Wharves.)
Bells, ringing of, 22, 29, 143, 1S4, 193, 243,
307.
omitted, 85.
ringers, 29.
tolling of, 48, 107, 171, 225, 290, 331,
332.
presentation of a bell to a school-
house, 263.
Bill of Rights, 23, 128, 129, 283, 284.
to prevent forestalling and monopoly,
38.
Bills, rate, see Taxes,
hand, 81, 260.
of credit, 154, 213, 221, 242, 249, 250,
260.
Port, 243.
Bilrica [Billerica], 90.
Blacksmiths, 79.
(See also Trades.)
Blanks to print, 147. '
Blankets for the army, see Continental army.
Board of War, 29, 32, 33, 231, 244, 251, 255,
259, 327.
corn in the hands of, to dis-
tribute to the poor, 20.
case of Mr. Johonnet brought
before, 32, 33, 34.
resolve of, 32, 33.
opposition to, 34.
accounts with, 244, 257, 258,
259, 326. 327, 328.
town's arms, 59, 231, 326.
to wait upon, 97.
books of, 328.
Boards, surveyor of, see Wood.
Bonds, see Sureties.
Books, tax, 7, 143, 144, 145, 163, 179, 182,
town, nee Records.
Boston, 1, 3, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 21, 22,
24, 26, 27, 28, 32, 36, 39, 41, 45, 47,
61, 67, 72, 82, 84, 86, 88, 89, 90, 97,
101, 102, 105, 106, 108, 125, 131,135,
140, 151, 152, 158,159, 160, 165,168,
169, 170, 172, 192, 194, 1H6, 200,204,
208, 211, 218, 219, 224, 226, 241, 242,
244, 245, 2»6, 258, 261, 265, 267, 270,
273, 275, 276, 277, 278, 279, 2SO, 281,
288, 289, 291, 302, 307, 308,309, 317,
319, 321, 323, 3_'4, :.!2:..
Common, horses going at large on,
to prevent, 59, 60, 61.
injury to, by passing of
carriages, 221.
school in the, 223, 224,
234, 321, 329.
firing of small arms at the
bottom of, 326.
burying ground on, 302.
incumbrances on, 311.
Gaol, 32, 33.
harbor, to fortify, 74.
(See also Fortifications.)
militia, 140, 141.
(See also Militia.)
neck, sale of town's lands on the,
55, 56, 57, 158, 181, 183, 298,
310.
forestalling provisions on, 87,
88, 89.
lease of, 189, 203.
incroachments on, to prevent,
203.
firing of small arms on, to
prevent, 326.
Regiment, see Troops.
Bounties, 17, 18, 26, 27, 140, 141.
(See a Iso Continental Army.)
Braintree, 94.
Breadstuffs, 6, 10, 13, 37, 38, 45, 46, 90, 92,
96, 101, 102, 140, 178, 231, 242,
249, 251, 258, 266, 267, 297, 302,
326, 327.
342
CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Breadstuffs, surveyors of wheat, 52, 112, 113,
178, 231, 241, 297.
scarcity of, 36, 39, 40.
to provide for the families of
non-commissioned officers and
soldiers of the Continental
army, 10.
rye bread, 90.
for the poor, 29, 30, 36, 39, 242.
in the several wards, 36, 37, 38.
assize of bread, 56, 57.
Bridge, mill, 6, 103, 112, 178.
repairs, 103.
draw, 103.
repairs, 103.
swing, at Oliver's dock, 301.
Building, petition to erect, 69.
of suitable school-house, 237,
238.
new wooden, 325, 326.
Burial places :
sextons, 184. '
adjoining the Granary, 301.
common, 302.
expense of burials, to regulate, 331,
332.
tolling of bells at funerals, regulating
of, 332.
Butchers, 76, 82.
petition of the several, 81.
(See also Trades.)
meat, 81.
(See also Provisions.)
By-laws, 60, 280, 302, :.;:J1.
relative to sweeping of chimneys,
288, 289.
for appointment and regulation of
the several market places, 302.
to enforce, 302, 303, 3u4.
(dee also Laws.}
Cadiz salt, 92.
(See alto Salt.)
Cambridge, 83, 125.
university at, 127, 313.
Candles, 330.
Card makers, 79.
(See also Trades.)
Cargoes, see Ships, vessels, etc.
Carpenters, 79.
(See also Trades.)
Carriages, carts, etc.. 103, 221, 302, 303,304.
Cartridges, 78.
(See also Arms and Ammunition.)
Carts, see Carriages, carts, etc.
Carvers, 79.
(See also Trades.)
Case of Francis Johonnot, 32, 33, 34, 35.
petition iu, 33,34.
guilt of, not
proven, 33.
Capt. Samuel Pepper, 34, 35.
Cattle upon the hoof, 91.
Common, 299.
Caulkers, 79.
( See a/so Trades.)
Certificates, 86, 96, 123, 124, 237, 249, 286.
loan office, 99.
Charlestown Ferry, 87, 88.
(See also Ferries.)
Charter for fisheries, 216.
Clielsea, re-annexation to Boston, relative
to, 524.
Chimney sweepers, 170.
salaries of, 288.
to appoint, 170.
to advertise for, 288.
sweeping of, 280.
report on chimneys, 287-89.
inspection of chimneys, 'J89.
Thocolate, 38.
Cisterns, 92.
distilling of, 85.
Clerks of the market, see Market.
Clothing, 30,102, 103, 104, 105, 164,181,211.
(See also Continental army.}
Coffee, 38.
Collection for Christopher Monk, 2.
Collectors of taxes, see Taxes.
Commerce, 323.
wealth and strength of a nation
dependent upon its, 215.
naval strength of a nation linked
with iu,215.
illegal, 273.
Commissary General of Supplies, 39, 40, 64,
68, 124,
326, 133.
time of
service
to limit,
126.
of military stores, 220.
Commissionfe, 127, 217.
Committees :
on providing nn orator for
March thu Fifth, 1.
to wait on orator, 1, 2, 47, 48,
49, 106, 107, 108, 170, 224, 225,
289-90, 291.
on correspondence, 4, 12, 32,
35, 49, 50, 70, 71, 72, 108, 109,
112, 116, 173, 177, 227, 228.
to audit accounts, 7, 52, 53, 65,
•243.
on inspection and safety, 4, 12,
.-^o, 47, 49, 50, 70, 71, 72, 75,
108, 109, 116, 173, 177, 227,
•228, 273, 275, 297.
to consider a tax to defray the
expenses of the town, 8, 10,
11, 201, ;A)2.
on high price of provisions, 8,
9.
remedy for, 9, 10.
for relief of the poor, 10, 205.
payment of schoolmasters,
10, 169,221,222.
to obtain the names of the non-
commission ed
officers and sol-
diers of the Con.
tinental Army,
11.
names of commit-
tee, 1 1 .
to relieve said persons, 14, 68,
102, 103, 104, 115, 124.
purchase fire-arms, etc., 11,
12, 67, 68.
prepare a draft of petition
to the General Court, 13,
20, 21.
on inoculation for small-pox,
15.
drafting men into the army,
16, 17, 18, 19, 16V, 162, 191,
195, 196, 198, 204, 222, 235,
236,237,238,241,243, 244.
to obtain subscriptions for
bounties, 18, 27, 143, 224.
wait on the Board of War,
32, 97.
prepare instructions to the
representatives, 21, 64,
138, 156.
prepare instructions relative
to a form of government,
22, 65, 66.
prevent return of renegades
to the town, 27, 28.
on school-masters' salaries, 30,
31, 54,55, 102, 123,147, 164,
319.
to purchase flour, 38, 39, 40, 41,
43, 44, 56, 140.
borrow money, 38, 39, 40,
41, 43, 44, 56, 201, 202.
INDEX TO PLACES AND SUBJECTS.
343
Committees :
to present memorial to Hon.
Horatio Gates, 39, 40.
inquire into persons fore-
stalling the necessaries of
life, 40, 45, 46, 87.
obtain supplies for the poor,
54, 189, 190, 191.
on payments made by collect-
ors in the several treasu-
ries, 55, 68, 69.
sale of town's lands, 55, 56,
57.
expenditures of monies, 56.
levying of taxes more equi-
tably, 56.
assize of bread, 56, 57, 60.
case of Francis Johonnot,
34.
to ascertain amount of flour and
other necessities in the
several wards, 36, 37.
report measure to relieve
the inhabitants in their
great and growing diffi-
culties, 37.
collect subscriptions for
money to buy grain and
flour, 38, 41, 142.
furnish inhabitants with
vegetables, 58, 60.
prevent horses going at
large on the Common, 59.
on by-laws, 60.
to obtain subscriptions of
money, 64, 75, 99, 104, 154,
155, 212.
relative to tax premiums, 68.
to meet with the convention at
Concord, 70, 71, 72, 73.
names of committee, 70.
proceedings of, to carry into
effect, 73, 74, 76.
to decide what measures to
take relative to prisoners of
war going at large, 70.
report of, 69, 70, 71.
on grants, 71.
to procure subscriptions for
loan of money to Congress,
74, 75.
obtain subscriptions for for-
tifying Boston har-
bor, 74, 75.
names of committee,
74, 75.
affix prices on European
goods, 75, 76, 78, 79, 98,
100.
consider what may be best
to do for security of the
town in case of an inva-
sion from the enemy, 76.
consider the introduction of
live stock into the town,
76, 77.
take note of violation of
laws concerning sale of
European goods, 79.
committee of Twelve, reports
of, 144.
on enforcement of monopoly
act, 81.
committee of Thirteen, 82, 84,
85, 90, 96, 97, 9!).
on scarcity of fire-wood, 84.
price of merchandize, 84, 89.
on fire-wood, 85, 86, 94.
engrossing of wood, meat, etc.,
to prevent, 86.
to prevent persons going upon
Charlestown ferry and the
Neck to purchase provi-
sions, 88, 87.
Committees :
names of twenty, on commit-
tee, 88, 89.
on price of merchandize and
country produce, 88, 89, 96.
to supply the town with pro-
visions, 89.
wait on merchants, traders
and distillers, 90, 91, 92,
95.
relative to cattle upon the
hoof, 91.
to board vessels and report on
cargoes, 93, 95.
receive and store salt, 95.
procure subscriptions for
the magazine, 95.
of merchants, appointed to
affix prices of European
goods, etc., 98, 100, 101.
names of, 98.
to obtain supplies for the pub-
lic (-tore, 100.
on repairs to bridges, 103.
salaries of town officials,
106.
abatement of taxes, 114.
to inquire into debits and
credits of the town, 114.
on street refuse, 115.
workhouse, 115.
to promote virtue and good
order in the town, 115.
examine collector's books,
117, llx.
improve town land at West
Boston for raising vege-
tables, 118, 178.
for protection of the sea coasts,
119.
to establish a school at the
iSouth End, 120, 123, 124.
provide a place for the town
to meet, 125.
consider the habeas corpus
writ, 127.
3d article in
the declara-
tion of
rights, J29.
report on, 129-
130.
draw up reasons for altera-
tions in constitution, 131,
135.
procure recruits and sup-
plies for the army, 144,
164, 210.
on assessors' salaries, 148.
to examine accounts of Capt.
Gustavus Fellows, 158, 159,
160.
on address to John Hancock,
158.
to inquire into town's title to
land at or near North
Battery, 136.
classify inhabitants of the
several wards, 161, 162,
163, 164.
procure beef for the Conti-
nental Army, 152, 153,
165, 166, 167, 168, 169,
170.
present address to Gov.
Hancock, 159.
on outstanding taxes, 164, 16c,
16(5, 195.
to receive monies raised by
tax for beef, 168.
on Ways and Means, 176, 182,
183. 1H5, 205.
town's proportion of fines,
176, 177.
344
CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Committees :
on assessing and collecting
taxes, 176, 179.
to prepare abstract of valua-
tion of the town, 180.
assist town treasurer in
settling accounts and
collecting debts, 182, 202.
clerk to said committee,
182.
on town's land on the Neck,
183.
to lease North Battery, 187, 188.
prevent illicit trade, 187,271,
272.
on petition of collectors of
taxes, 197.
to act on list of jurors, 198.
estimate sum necessary to
defray expenses of current
year, 199, 200.
assist the treasurer, 202.
prevent encroachments on
the Neck, 203.
on town watch, 211.
fishery, 212.
to wait upon the Governor, 213,
271.
prepare complimentary ad-
dress to the Marquis de la
Fayette, 217-18.
on present arrangement of
publick schools, and what
further improvement may
be made therein, 220.
to consult with the commissary
of military stores, 220.
on repairs to streets, 221.
petition of Paul Farmer,
231.
building of new school-
house, 237.
to inquire into expenditures of
war, 249.
examine the assessors'
books, 256.
act upon the list of jurors,
258.
present memorial relative to
the observance of the
Lord's day to the general
assembly, 285.
consider the suitable obser-
vance of the anniversary
of the Declaration of Inde-
pendence, 291, 295.
on enforcing by-law relative to
the markets, 304.
to provide an orator to deliver
en oration on the 4th of
July, 305, 322, 323.
consider the re-annexation
of Chelsea to Boston, 324.
security of the town by
night, 326, 327.
collect town's lamps, 330,
332.
Common burying ground, 302.
(See also Burial places.)
street, 301, 302.
(See also Streets.)
Concord, 70, 73, 74, 75, 76, 78, 80, 82, 87, 88,
96, 99, 101.
Confederation of the Thirteen States, 216.
Congress, 95, 217, 272, 314.
to obtain subscriptions for money
to loan, 74, 75.
pamphlet published by, 95.
delegates to, 126, 137.
commissioners to, 217.
Connecticut, 38, 89, 270, 271.
Constables, 3, 22, 73, 97, 123, 124, 136, 143,
144, 153, 155, 163, 174, 175, 176,
179, 183, 188, 203.
Constables, choice of, 6, 53, 59, 116, 117, 123,
184, 186, 188, 191, 192, 198, 200,
204, 227, 229, 232, 233, 241, 242,
243.
desire to be exempt from serv-
ing as, 58, 185, 186, 187, 188,
189, 191, 192, 2U3, 239, 241.
disorderly behavior of one of
the, 97.
list of persons who will serve
as, to furnish, 188.
(See also Watch.)
Constitution and form of government, new,
21, 22, 23, 61, 63, 83, 125, 128,
129, 131-35, 156, 157, 193, 196,
244, 246, 282, 283, 284, 313, 314.
provision for a future revisal
of, 127.
to accept, 129.
superior advantages of a repub-
lican, 291.
Continental agents, 90.
army, 8, 10, 14, 19, 77, 141, 153,
154, 156, 194, 195, 206,
207, 209, 217, 235, 236,
259, 328.
full proportion of, to
keep in the field, 66.
statistics as to the, 11,
19, 249.
drafting men into, 16, 17,
18, 19, 20, 145, 161, 163,
198, 204, 222, 235, 236,
237, 238, 243, 244, 249.
enlistments into, 17, 18.
bounties, 17, 18, 26, 27,
140, 141, 145, 147, 224,
244, 249, 260.
mileage of men, 27, 140,
147, 249.
clothing for, 29, 30, 102,
103, 104, 105, 181, 249,
259.
shoes and stockings, 30,
140, 147, 164, 165, 210,
249.
blankets, 140, 147, 164, 165.
major-general and com-
mander of the, memo-
rial to, 39, 40.
reply of, 42, 43.
supplies to families of
non-commissioned offi-
cers and soldiers of,
61, 64, 115, 124, 249, 260.
tax raised, instead of
men drafted, 140-41.
recruits and supplies to
procure, 144, 145, 160,
191.
beef for, 152, 153, 157,
165, 166, 167. 169, 170,
204, 209, 249, 253.
grain for, 249.
horses for, 249.
navy, 19.
service, see Continental Army,
stores, petition for flour and
bread corn from, 49, 50.
tax, 265,267, 268, 269.
Convention of February 28, 1778.
June 16, 1780, 152.
form of government sent out
by, to reject, 22.
State, to call, see State Con-
vention.
meeting of, at Concord, 70, 71,
72, 73, 75, 76, 78, 80, 82, 96,
99, 101.
at Cambridge, delegates, 83,
128.
Concord, 87, 88.
for framing new constitution,
125.
INDEX TO PLACES AND SUBJECTS.
345
Convention, resolves of the, 125, 135.
on sweeping of chimneys, 280.
Coopers, 79.
(See also Trades.)
Cordwainers, 79.
(See also Trades.)
Cora, see Breadstuffs.
Correspondence, committees on, 4, 12, 32, 35,
49, 50, 71,
72, 108,
109, 112,
116, 173,
177, 187,
227, 228.
names of, 49, 50, 228.
(See also Committees.)
with sister states, to en-
courage, 157, 306, 307.
Cotton wool, 92.
Council, the, 13, 34, 70, 72, 77, 84, 126.
counsellors, 24.
resolve of, 32, 33.
case of Francis Johonnot, 32, 33,
34, 35.
County of Suffolk, see Suffolk,
treasurer, see Treasurer,
register, see Register.
Court of general sessions, 6, 294.
inferior, 142.
supreme judicial, 207, 314.
Cows, see Cattle.
Credit, public and private, basis of, 156.
Cryer, town, see Town.
Cullers of staves, 5.
Currency, article upon, 95.
Curtis' wharf, 310.
Debit and credit of the town, 7, 53, 114, 177,
181, 182.
Debt, public, 157, 201, 215.
Declaration of Independence, anniversary of,
to be suitablv observed,
291, 294.
Rights, 127, 129, 130, 131, 132,
313, 314.
Deeds, etc., 220, 311,317.
Deer, informer of, 5, 51, 111, 175, 230, 296.
Delegates, 131, 135.
to the convention at Cambridge ,
83, 84, 125,
126, 128.
at Concord, 87,
88.
. choice of, 83, 87, 88.
names of, 83, 88.
Depositions, 271.
Diseases, infections, 9, 10, 323.
spread of, 15.
to prevent,
302.
(See also Small-pox.)
Distilleries and distillers, 90, 91.
Distilling of cisterns, 85.
(See also Cisterns.)
Dock square, 303, 330.
fish market at, to open 98.
repairs on, 318.
consideration of, deferred,
98,99.
fish stalls, to build on, 100.
encroachments in, 294,311.
(See also Streets, etc.)
town, 46, 326.
incumbrances on, 305, 331.
abutters on, 311, 314, 316, 317,
318, 321, 326, 327.
(See also Town Dock.)
to fill up, 311.
Dominion provinces of Great Britain, 33.
Donations, 238, 263, 291.
Drafting, 16, 17.
Drafts of monies, see Monies.
men, see Continental Army.
Drains, etc., 311.
Drawbridge, 103.
repairs to, 103.
(See also Bridge.)
Elections, matter of settling, 126.
Enlistments, 17, 18, 19, 20, 243.
bounties for men enlisting, 17,
18, 244.
men to enlist in their own
towns, 17, 18.
omissions in manner of, 20.
(Seealno Continental Army.)
European goods, 75, 76, 78, 98, 100, 101, 215.
Exclusion Act, 32, 33, 34, 35, 306, 307, 314.
(See also Act.,)
Executive power, 126.
Exhibitions, 228.
(See also Amusements.)
Exportation of gold and silver, 214.
Faneuil Hall, 1, 3, 14, 16, 18, 21, 24, 26, 27, 28,
32, 36, 45, 47, 49, 56, 61, 67,
69, 72, 82, 84, 86, 89, 97, 102,
105, 106, 108, 125, 135, 150,
152, 155, 156, 160, 165, 169,
170, 172, 192, 194, 196, 200,
204, 208, 211, 218, 219, 224,
226, 228, 241, 242, 244, 246,
251, 259, 261, 265, 267, 270,
275, 276, 277, 289, 292, 307,
309, 319, 321, 323, 325, 328,
333.
market, 19, 65, 302.
regulations of, 19.
stalls in, 81.
arms lodged in, 259.
windows of, to mend, 237.
repairs to, 237, 238.
Farmers, 82.
Farriers, 79.
(See also Trades.)
Fees due from justices, 180.
Fence viewers, 5, 51, 111, 175, 229, 296.
Ferries, 80.
Winnisimet, 72.
forestalling provisions on, 87.
Charlestown, 87, 88.
Fines, see Penalties and Fines.
Firearms, see Arms and Ammunition.
wards, 4,12, 50, 109, 110, 173, 174, 228, 293.
Fires, to consider what is proper to be done
to secure the town from, 170.
bells to ring for, 184.
at Oliver's dock, 325.
Fish, 9, 215.
stalls, 100.
extravagant price of, 46.
fishermen, 46.
markets, 56, 57, 98, 99.
price of haddock and halibut, 80.
mongers, 79.
Fisheries, 211, 214, 215, 314.
importance of, 214-217.
charter, 216.
circular letter relating to the, 217,
218, 219.
Flour and grain, see Breadstuffs.
Foreign Armies, see Armies.
Foreign Navies, see Navies.
Forestallers, severe condemnation of, 13, 45,
46.
law against, to enact, 13, 96.
forestalling and monopoly, bill
to prevent, 38, 40, 41, 42, 43,
44, 47, 87.
certain men who are, 44, 45, 46.
Form of government for the State of Massa-
chusetts Bay, old, to reject, 23.
new, to institute, 23,
24, 66, 126.
rights of representation, 23.
equality of representation, 66.
proposed alterations in, 131-35.
new, 156.
346
CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Form relative to choice of Governor, etc.,
307.
representa-
tives, 309.
Fort Hill, barracks to erect on, 69.
Fortifications :
brick wall of, 165.
in Boston harbor, 74.
near the Neck, 87, 88, 310.
North Battery, 136, 138, 149,
185, 187, 188.
to sell, 189.
South Battery, 153, 155.
Fox hill, 268, 269.
France, naval power of, 216.
allies from, 276-277, 278.
Freedom of speech, to secure, 127.
French Corps under Count Kochambeau,
•278, 279.
Funerals, tolling of bells at, to regulate, 331,
332.
Gaol, case of Francis Johonnot confined in
the, 32, 33.
General and Commander-in-chief of the
forces in the United States of
America, welcome to, 275,276-77,
278.
reply of, 278, 279.
Glass, 44, 45, 238.
Glaziers, 79.
(See also Trades.)
Goal, see Gaol.
Gold, 214.
Goldsmiths, 79.
(See also Trades.)
Governor, the, 126, 133, 150, 151, 152, 165,
193, 194, 213, 244, 245, 271,
307.
address to, 158.
committee to present ad-
dress, 159.
reply of, 159.
Lieutenant, 126, 150, 151, 152, 193,
194,244,245,307.
Grain, see Breadstuffs.
(See also Granary.)
Granary, the, 38, 41, 231, 297, 301, 302.
grain to store in, for the town,
38, 41.
to be distributed, 42.
keeper of, 6, 52, 112, 231, 297.
purchasers of grain, 6, 52, 112,
140, 178,231, 297.
sale of, 52, 231, 297.
to use, as a public magazine,
96.
stores in, to remove, 97.
burying ground adjoining, 301.
Grants and allowances, 66, 67, 71.
(See also Salaries.)
Gravel, 268, 269.
Great Britain, 216.
monies sent to, 215.
Habeas corpus, 127.
privileges and benefits of,
128.
to suspend only in time of
war, efc.,128.
writs of, 133.
Hair dressers, 79. ,
(See also Trades.)
Hartford, 101.
Hat makers, see Hatters.
Hatters, 79, 87, 97.
(See also Trades.)
Hay, 38, 302.
market for, 301, 303, 329.
Haywards, 5, 52, 111, 175, 230, 296.
Hemp, surveyors of, 5, 51, 110, 174, 229, 295.
Hides and tallow, 81.
Hi kjh ways, see Streets, highways, etc.
Hingham, 94.
Hogreeves, 5, 7, 12, 52, 111, 175, 230, 239,296,
300, 306.
Horses, 302.
to prevent, going at large on the
Common, 59, 60, 61.
for the use of the army, 249.
Hospitals, 15.
at West Boston, 15.
State, 258, 328.
boat, 288.
iunoculating, at Apple Island ,323.
House of Representatives, 7, 8, 13, 126.
Housewrights, 79.
(See also Trades.) '
Hucksters, 79.
(See also Trades.)
Importations, 214.
West India, 215.
Independence Day, celebration of the an-
niversary of, 291, 294,
295, 305, 322.
choice of orator for,
322.
Indian meal, see Breadstuffs, 10.
Inferior Court, see Court.
Informer of Deer, see Deer.
Inhabitants, 1, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 22, 24,
26, 27, 28, 35, 36, 39, 41, 45,
48, 49, 50, 53, 55, 56, 58, 59,
60, 61, 62, 65, 69, 72, 74, 75, 81,
82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 89, 90,
92, 93, 94, 95, 97, 99, 100, 102,
105, 106, 108, 125, 127, 130,
133, 135, 136, 141, 142, 145,
150, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156,
158, 159, 160, 163, 165, 168,
169, 170, 172, 173, 179, 181,
182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187,
191, 192, 194, 196, 197, 108,
199, 200, 204, 207, 208, 209,
211, 213, 218, 224, 225, 226,
227, 232, 235, 237, 238, 241,
242, 244, 246, 247, 251, 255,
257, 259, 260, 261, 262, 264,
265, 266, 267, 268, 269, 270,
271, 274, 275, 276, 277, 282,
288, 289, 291, 292, 294, 298,
299, 301, 302, 306, 307, 309,
310, 318, 319, 321, 323, 325,
328, 329, 333, 334.
depletion of town's, 19.
petitions of, 76.
to report names of traitors to
the Committee of Safety, 71.
must equip themselves and at-
tend the military musters, 78.
informed of report of commit-
tee on the act relative to the
Lord's Day, 279.
Innoculation, 9, 15, 323, 324.
general, to encourage, '15.
date of termination, 16.
innoculating hospital at Apple
Island, 323, 324.
Inspection and safety, 4, 12, 35, 47, 49, 50,
70. 71, 75, 108, 109,
173, 177, 187, 227,
228, 273, 275, 297,
306.
(See also Committee.)
duties of, 306, 307.
Inspectors of the Market, see Market.
Interest, see Notes, negotiable.
Islands :
West Indies, 78, 323.
Turks', 92.
Apple, 323, 324.
Judiciary power, 126.
Jurors, 26, 317.
list of, 26, 198, 258, 317.
jury book, 142.
grand, 235.
INDEX TO PLACES AND SUBJECTS.
347
Justices, 49, 108, 123, 124, 181, 188, 195.
fees due Irom, 180.
Labor, price of, 13, 79-80.
Luinb, 81.
(See also Provisions.)
Lamps, town, to be again lit up. 327, 330.
to collect, 330, 332, 333.
lamplighters. 330, 333.
lamp tux, 333.
expense of lighting, to defray, 334.
Lands, owners :
Capt. Job Prince, 60.
Mr. Hezekiah Blanchard,
60.
heirs of James Allen, 60.
John and Thomas
Leaverett, 60.
Andrew Symmes, 6u.
.)//•. Clough, 60.
Harris, 60.
Dr. Sprague. 60.
.!//•. Edward Caraes, 60.
Sumuer, 60.
William Dennie, 164.
Phillips etals., 327, 329.
town's, 55, 114, 115, 118,187.
on Oliver's dock, 327, 329.
sale of, 55, 56, 57, 203, 311.
on the Neck, 55, 56, 57, 158,
181, 183, 189, 203, 298, 300,
304, 310.
title to, 06, 311, 314, 327.
trespassers on Beacon Hill,
57.
waste, 60.
petition to erect barracks
on, 69.
portion of ground on Fort
Hill,6!i.
at New Boston, 96.
title to laud at or near
North Battery, 13B, 149.
raising of vegetables on, 60,
114, 115, 118, 178, 180.
abutting on the Dock, 304,
311, 314, 316, 317, 318, 326,
327.
Language, improper, 92.
Latin, teacher of, in the schools, 55.
(See also Schools.)
Laws, 92, 115, 172, 196, 246, 275, 280, 309.
breach of, 32, 33, 34, 35, 47, 77, 79, 80,
84, 89, 90, 91, 97, 98.
enactment of, relative to renegades,
called the Exclusion Act, 32, 34, 35,
306, 307.
relative to purchase of meat, 81.
to uphold. 35, 66, 115, 325.
to be read at town meeting, 49, 246,
292, 309.
relative to sweeping of chimneys, 288,
289.
trespasses on Beacon Hill, 57.
building with wood, 325, 326.
relative to certain by-laws, 60.
straagers, 71.
penal, 313.
confirmations of, 127.
habeas corpus, 127.
repeal of certain, 156.
(.See also By-laws.)
Lead, twenty hundred weight of, 328.
Leases, 60, 72, 138, 181, 183, 185, 187, 189,
203.
Leather, sealers of, 5, 51, 111, 175, 229, 296.
dressers, 76.
Legislative power, 126.
Legislature, the, 217.
(See also Assembly.)
Letters :
from 3fr. Samuel Brick, 109.
committee town of Stoughton to
the selectmen of Boston, 177.
Letters :
Irom Mr. Justice Gardner, 189, 195.
town of Marblehead, 211, 212,
214.
circular, to maritime towns, 217, 218-19.
from John Bradford, Esq., 217, 2.'2.
complimentary address to the Mar-
<ltris de la Fayette, 217-18.
reply, 218.
Mr. Hunt, master of the South
Grammar school, 220.
Stephen Higgiuson, Exq., 254.
from Hon. James Lovell, 256.
circular letters, 265, 274, 275.
from Capt. Collis, 270.
Mr. Prentice, 270.
Hon. Samuel Adams to the
Selectmen of Boston, 2w2.
Nathan Kraxier, Em/., 293.
Capt. Gustavur* Fellows, 294.
lion. Wiliam Philips, 3;o.
Libels, 85.
Literature, encouragement of, 127, 157.
and science, 157, 313.
Live stock, to introduce into the town, 76.
(See also Cattle.)
farmers recommended to pur-
chase, 82.
Loan office, 99.
Lord's Day, 298.
observance of the, 7, 313.
an act for the more
effectual, 277,279.
memorial to the General As-
sembly relative to, 280-85.
Lotteries, 203.
Lumber, 82, 214.
Magazine, public, to be opened, 94, 95, 96.
granary to use as a, 96.
supplies for the, 10U, 102
to furuish with grain, 101.
salt and other merchandize
turned into the, 101.
articles sold from, 101, 102.
to keep open, 102.
Major General and Commander of the army
of the United States in the Eastern
Department, memorial to, 39, 40, 42.
reply from, 42, 43.
Manufactures, 272.
prices of, 79.
Marblehead, 44, 211, 212, 214.
Maritime towns, circular letter to, 217, 218,
219.
(See also Letters.)
Market, 19, 65, 80.
clerks of the, 9, 54, 71, 113, 177, 228,
229, 262, 2.«.
forestalling the, 10, 13, 45, 46, 87, 88.
regulations of the, 19.
north doors and windows of, to be
put up, 43.
inspectors of, 46, 301, 302, 303, 304.
fish, 56, 57, 98, 99, 100.
vegetables sold in, 81, 301.
stalls in, 81.
disorders of, 301.
wood, 301.
hay, 301, 303, 329.
regulating, 311.
place, see Dock square,
square, see Dock square.
Masons, 79.
(See also Trades.1)
Massacre oil March 5, 1770, to commemorate,
1, 2, 47, 48, 49,
106,107,108,170,
171,224,225,226,
2S9-90, 305.
change in institu-
tion of the anni-
versary of, 3u4,
305.
348
CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Massachusetts Bay, the State of, 13, 19, 26, I
:v2, 125, 137, 151,
158, 159, 196, 280.
Constitution and
form of govern-
ment, 22.
old, to reject, 22, 23.
new, to institute, 23,
•24.
towns and plantations of,
22, 26.
first governor, 158-159.
Meat, unmerchantable, brought into the
town, 77.
law as to purchasing, 81.
engrossing of, to prevent, 86.
Mechanics, 215.
Medicines, 9.
Meeting-houses :
old brick, 1, 2, 21, 48, 106,
107, 126, 170, 171, 225,
290.
bells of the several, 184.
sextons, 184.
Dr. Cooper's, 322.
Memorials or petitions :
to the General Court, 9, 10,
13, 19, 20, 21, 277, 279, 280-
85.
Hon. Horatio Gates, 39, 40.
reply of,
42, 43.
to committees appointed to
receive subscriptions and
purchase flour and grain,
41.
reason for delay in printing
town's memorial to Genl.
Gates and his reply, 43.
for assistance to the poor,
242.
in behalf of the estate of
Edw. Hollyday, 243-44.
Mr. Samuel liuggles, 263.
Men-of-war, nee Ships, vessels, etc.
Merchandize, price of, 84, 88, 89, 99, 100,
215.
possible exportation of, 89.
turned into the public store,
101.
Merchants, 82, 89, 92, 94, 99, 215.
must comply with the law, 90.
account of all sales, etc., to ren-
der, 90.
to wait on, 90, 91, 95.
Military musters, 78.
wards, 179, 182, 210.
stores, 220.
Militia, 11, 12, 77, 78, 140, 141, 145, '258, 259,
27*, 328.
drafts from the, 19.
arms for, to purchase, 67, 68.
orders to captains of companies in,
244.
(See also Troops.)
Mill bridge, the, 6, 52, 112, 178, 231.
repairs to, 103.
(See also Bridge.)
owners, 103.
Mills :
new, 6, 52, 112, 178, 231.
north, 203.
Milton, 75.
Ministers of the Gospel to remind their con-
gregations of important town
meeting, 127.
copy of vote to send to all, 127.
of the needs of the poor, 205.
Molas=es, 38, 79, 92.
Monies, 67, 74, 137, 142, 146,149,154,158, 160,
164, 181, 201, 202, 203, £06, 212, 215,
221, 231,248, 251, 252, 253, 254, 260,
263, 267, 268, 279, 286, 289, 298, 299,
300, 316, 318, 333.
Monies, to raise, 10, 11, 14, 18, 26, 27, 29, 30,
38, 41, 57, 61, 64, 73, 94, 98, 105,
124, 140,145, 146, 153,167,168,170,
201, 213, 223, 224, 238, 249, 250, 318,
319, 333, 334.
for fire arms, 12.
payment of bounties, 17, 18.
of town treasurer, 26, 116, 117.
for soldiers' families, 260.
to raise for the poor, 29, 30, 98, 120,
189, 190, 191, 242.
provide flour and grain, 38, 41,
44.
due Capt. Amasa Davis from the
town, 231.
notes to issue, for loans of, 18, 27,
38, 57, 61, 64, 98, 120, 140-41, 142,
146, 150, 154, 165, 167, 168, 201,
242.
receipts for, 41.
to draw on town treasurer for, 41,
150, 239, 240.
deposit with town treasurer, 42,
116, 117, 140.
expenditures of, granted by town,
56.
old, 197.
received and paid into the treas-
urer's, 116, 117, 118, 119.
interest on, to overseers of the poor,
176, 177, 201.
paper, to exchange for silver,
177.
premium on, 181.
advanced by Nathan Frazier, 199.
be repaid, 180.
Monopoly Act, 81.
Mutton, 81, 102.
(See also Provisions.)
Naval strength of a nation linked with its
commercial status, 215.
Navies, foreign, 214.
Neassity [Necessity?] (brigantinf.) , 92.
(See also Ships, vessels, etc.)
Neck, the, see Boston Neck.
Negroes and mulattoes, 19, 25S.
New Boston, see West Boston.
England rum, 91.
(See also Rum.)
Colonies^lOl.
Mills, see Mills.
Newspapers, publishing in the, 24,71, 80, 81,
97, 99, 144, 145, 147, 153, 250,
252, 275, 279, 294, 307, 311,
322
Willis', 85.
address to the Marquis Fay-
ette and his re-
ply, published
in the several,
218.
Baron Viomenil,
and his reply
thereto, p u b-
lished in the
several, 279.
New York, 38.
North Battery, 136, 138, 149, 185, 188, 220.
\ to sell, 189, 220.
(See also Battery.)
(See also Fortifications.)
End, 55, 210.
Mills, 203.
(See also Mills.)
Grammar School, 197, 223, 224, 233,
234.
(See also Schools.)
square, 301, 302.
(See also Streets.)
writing school, 25, 223, 234.
master of, 25, 223, 234.
(See also Schools.)
INDEX TO PLACES AND SUBJECTS.
349
Notes, interest, etc., 18, 27, 38, 57, 61, 64, 98,
104, 114, 120, 140-41, 154, 166, 167,
168, 224, 240, 242, 248, 249, 250, 252,
264.
for, given by town treasurer, 168,
199, 250, 252.
Oath of Fidelity, 34, 292.
Oaths and subscriptions, 125, 172, 226, 243.
Offices, incompatibility and exclusion from,
127.
qualifications for, 127.
Oil. 215.
Old Brick Meeting-house, 1, 2, 21, 48, 106,
107, 126, 170, 171, 225, 290.
(See also Meeting-houses.)
North square, see North square.
Oliver's dock, 301, 303, 325, 327, 329.
(See also Whiirves.)
Oration to he delivered in commemoration
of the Boston massacre, March 5,
1770, 1, 2, 47, 48, 49. 106, 107, 170,
171, 172, 224, 225, 226, 289-90.
copy of, to be furnished the Press,
48, 107, 225.
to be delivered at the Old Brick
Meeting-house, 170, 171, 290.
observance of an, to be superseded
by the suitable observance of the
anniversary of the Declaration of
Independence, 291, 294, 295, 305.
to be delivered on each succeeding
anniversarv of the 4th of July, 305,
322.
choice of orator, 322.
Overseers of the Poor see Poor.
Painters, 79.
(See also Trades.)
Pamphlets, 95.
Pavements, see Streets.
Penalties or Fines, 3, 17, 59, 60, 118, 165, 169,
174, 180, 181, 189, 195, 284, 288, 289, 302,
303.
Petition in case of Francis Johonnot, 33.
of number of inhabitants, 76, 320.
the several butchers, 81.
Gustavus Fellows, 158, 159, 160.
Capt. Bradford, 181, 183.
Mr. Krazier, 192.
collectors of taxes, 197, 198, 199.
Jonas Welch, 203.
Robert Patterson, 226.
Paul Farmer, 231, 239.
Amasa Davis, 231, 239, 240.
the town of Chelsea, 324.
Pewterers, 79.
(See also Trades.)
Philadelphia, 177.
congress in session at, 137.
Physicians, 9, 15, 16, 323.
names of, 324.
Pickled meat or wet provisions, sale of, in
market, prohibited, 320.
Pitch, 79.
Poor, overseers of the, 3, 29, 54, 57, 68, 98,
110, 119, 120, 149,
173, 176, 189, 190,
191, 201, 205, 239,
242, 251, 258, 300,
375.
choice of, 3, 50, 110,
227, 292.
accounts of ,to audit,
7, 53, 114, 177,
230,231, 300.
drafts of, 201, 202,
213, 230, 242, 250,
251, 315, 318.
medicines, 9.
physicians, 19.
supplies for, 29, 30, 43, 54, 55, 57, 98,
149, 189, 191, 205, 212, 242, 249, 258.
Pork, 10.
Port Bill, the, 243.
(See alxo Bills.)
Post and irons, 330, 333.
Powder, see Arms and Ammunition.
Premiums, see Taxes.
Press, liberty of the, 128.
Price of labor, 79, 80.
vegetables, 81.
merchandise, 84, 96.
wood, 94.
breadstuffs, 96.
country produce, 96.
European goods, etc., 98, 99, 100.
Printers, 79, 275.
(See also Trades.)
Printing, notifications, 62, 274, 275.
names of persons inimical to the
cause of America, 71.
of persons violating laws
relative to sale of pro-
visions, 80.
prices of provisions, 81.
votes of town relative to sale
of wood, 96.
names of persons violating regula-
tions of the town, 97.
oration commemorative of the
massacre of March 5, 1770, 48,
107.
of blanks for town treasurer, 147.
Prisoners of war at large, 70, 71, 72, 75.
escape of, 157.
Privateers, see Ships, vessels, etc.
Produce, country, 88.
Provisions, 302.
high price of, 8, 9, 13, 25, 31, 58,
71, 102, 211, 215.
reports concern-
ing, 9, 13.
for families of non-commis-
sioned officers and soldiers,
10, 124.
for the poor, 29, 30.
additional allowance to school-
masters because of high price
of, 31.
wet, 320.
to sell in small quantities, 38.
committee appointed to pur-
chase, 41, 42, 88, 89.
vegetables to furnish the inhab-
itants, 58, 60, 81, 114, 115, 118,
119, 120.
at extortionate rates, sale of, to
prevent, 80, 81.
violation of laws relative to sale
of, to punish, 80, 87.
Erice of, 81.
utchers' meat, 81.
forestalling of, 87.
beef, 10, 81, 102, 152, 153, 157,
165, 166, 167, 204, 205, 206, 207,
208, 209, 242, 249, 253.
Queen street, 25, 198, 223, 234, 321.
(See also Streets, etc.)
Rate bills, see Taxes.
Reading, 97.
Real estate, condition of the town's, 155.
(See also Taxes.)
Receipts for monies, 41, 67, 121, 123, 168, 256,
334.
(See also Monies.)
Records, town, 26, 32, 60, 98, 116, 117, 144.
of committees appointed to pur-
chase grain and other necessities
for the town, 42.
county, 116, 117.
state, 116, 117.
Recruits for the army, 217.
to procure, 144, 145.
Refuse on the streets, 115, 120.
(See also Streets.)
350
CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Regiments, see Troops.
Register, county, 174, 175.
Renegades, 27, 28, 32, 33, 34, 35, 85.
return of, 32.
exclusion act, 32, 306, 307.
breach of, 32, 33,
34, 35.
Rents, leases, etc., 26, 68, 203.
Reports of committees, 1, 2, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,
17, 18, 19, 28, 31,
32, S5, 38, 41, 44,
45, 46, 53, 55, 57,
60, 63, 65, 69, 70,
71, 72, 73, 74, 75,
76, 77, 78, 80, 85,
87, 89, 91, 92, 98,
99, 100, 103, 104,
106, 107, 116, 117,
118, 119, 123, 130-
35, 137, 140, 144,
147, 148, 159, 160,
161, 163, 165, 169,
179, 180, 182, 183,
188, 189, 190, 195,
199, 200, 201, 202,
203, 204, 206, 210,
211, 213, 217, 221,
222, 223, 224, 235,
237-38, 241, 243,
244, 252, 254, 255,
256, 259, 260, 263,
265, 269, 270, 276,
280, 286, 287, 288,
289, 290, 301-304,
305, 307, 310, 312,
315, 316, 317, 326,
327, 328, 329, 330,
331, 334.
of town treasurer,
26.
selectmen, 15.
Representation, rights of, 23. .
equality of, 66.
(See also Form of Government, etc.)
Representatives, 197, 198, 214, 219, 248, 254,
273.
house of, 7, 8, 13, 126, 280,
319.
speaker of the,
319.
chamber, 161, 163, 212, 227,
232, 253, 269.
choice of, 18, 24, 61, 62, 63,
135, 137, 138, 152,196, 200,
246, 247, 254, 256, 257, 258,
309, 312, 319.
names of, and number of
votes received, 18, 62,
136, 137, 196, 247.
instructions to, 19, 20, 21,
22, 23, 28, 64, 65, 66, 67,
131-35, 138, 153, 155, 156,
157, 214-17, 259, 260, 310,
312-15.
memorial to, 19, 20.
instructed as to return of
renegades to the town,
28.
Resolutions framed against illicit trade with
Great Britain, 273-274, 275.
Rhode Island, 26 , 27.
Rice, 10, 38.
Ropewalkers, 79.
(See also Trades.)
Roxbury, 45, 56, 57, 77, 166.
selectmen of, 77.
Rum, 44, 89, 92, 101.
New England, 91.
Rye meal, see Breadstuffs.
bread, see Breadstuffs.
Safety, committee of, 4, 12, 35, 47, 49, 70, 71,
72, 75,
307.
108, 109, 112, 116, 227, 228, 306,
Safety, committee of, names of, 49, 50, 116,
228.
duties of, 306, 307.
(See also Committees.)
Salaries or Allowances, 8, 10, 21, 25, 32, 86,
197-98, 220, 233,
300.
school-masters', 53,
54, 69, 71, 102,104,
123, 137, 146, 147,
149, 164, 169, 178,
208, 209, 211, 220,
221, 222, 233, 286-
87, 316, 318, 319,
320.
Mr. John Vinal, 223,
224, 234, 286, 287,
321.
Mr. William Cros-
well, 198,223,
234.
Samuel Hunt,
25, 31, 35,
71, 103,
197, 223,
233, 286,
320.
assistant of,
104, 147.
Samuel Hoi-
brook, 25, 31,
57, 71, 103.
Aaron Smith,
197.
James Tileston,
25, 31, 71, 103,
223, 234, 320.
John Tileston,
58, 197, 234,
286, 321.
James Bently,
ol»
James Carter,
25, 31, 58, 71,
103, 198, 223,
233, 286, 320.
William Bently,
25, 35, 71, 103.
David Jeffries,
25, 210.
Nathan Davis,
223, 224, 233,
234, 286, 287,
320, 321.
Paul Farmer,
239.
assessors, 31, 61, 68,
72, 118, 148, 149,
221, 325.
town treasurer, 71,
119, 149, 235, 318,
319, 321, 331.
measurers of wood,
96.
to officers, 116.
Samuel Pay son (?),
286, 321.
town clerk, 149, 150,
301, 318.
collectors of taxes,
240, 297, 298.
watchmen of the
town, 269, 318.
Mr. Isaac Warren,
286.
Salem, 44, 333.
Sales, etc., account of all, 92,
to be furnished, 90.
authorized, 189.
of land, 311,
Salt, 91, 92, 93, 101.
Cadiz, 92.
committee to receive and store, 95.
INDEX TO PLACES AM> SIIUECTS.
351
Scavengers, 6, 52, 113, 175, 230, 296-97, 301,
:-,02, 305, 308.
instructions to the, 302.
Schools :
Xorth Grammar, 197, 223, 224, 233,
286,287,320, 321.
South Grammar, 25, 35, 103, 104,
138, 147, 197, 220, 233, 236, 320.
Xorth Latin, 55.
master for, to ap-
point, 55.
writing :
north, 25, 197, 198, 223,
224, 286, 320 ,
321.
master of, 25, 147.
in Queen street, 26, 198,
223,286,320.
master of, 25.
Latin taught in, 55.
visitation of, 300.
masters' salaries, 8, 10, 21, 25, 30,
31, 32, 35, 54, 55, 69, 71,
102, 103, 137, 146, 147,
149, 164, 169, 178, 197,
198, 208, 209, 211, 212,
213, 221, 222, 223, 251,
286, 287, 320, 321.
petitions of, 57. '
just complaints of, 58.
the common, 223, 224,
'.NT, 321, 329.
present arrangement of public
schools, 220, 234, 235.
south, 237.
ushers, 25, 35, 69, 71.
salaries of, 103, 104, 147,
198, 223, 234, 286.
bell for a school, 263.
school-house, 115, 120, 123, 124,
138, 164, 178, 179, 237, 238, 251,
318, 320.
visitors to, 233.
Sea coasts, 119, 120.
neglected, 157.
Sealers of Leather, see Leather.
Securities, 242, 327.
Selectmen, 15, 20, 24, 30, 38, 43, 49, 56, 57, 63,
68, 69, 72, 81, 82, 84, 86, 93, 96,
97, 99, 120, 135, 137, 138, 140,
148, 149, 152, 153, 157, 165, 176,
177, 181, 188, 189, 193, 196, 198,
200, 201, 203, 209, 210, 211, 213,
221, 222, 223, 225, 226, 227,237, ,
239, 240, 243, 246, 247, 251, 253, i
254, 256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 263,
280, 286, 289, 290, 294, 298, 299,
300, 310, 311, 312, 322, 325, 326,
327, 328, 330, 334.
number of, to augment, 112.
choice of, 3, 21, 49, 108, 172, 292.
drafts of the, 177, 201, 231, 250,
251, 315, 318, 331.
to lay out certain lands into lots
of sixty feet each, 311.
of Koxbury, 77.
Selectmen's chamber, 144, 163, 266.
Senate, the, 280.
Senators, election of, 129,131, 150, 151, 152,
193, 194, 200, 244, 245, 307, 320.
Sextons, 184,
(See also Burial places.)
Sheep, 91.
Ships, vessels, etc., 93, 95, 96, 213, 215, 264,
274.
cargoes, 93, 95, 213.
men-of-war, 20.
privateers, 20, 216, 274.
coasters, 38, 84.
masters of, 77.
building, 215.
carpenters, 79, 215.
riggers, 79, 215.
joiners, 79, 215.
Ships, block makers, 79, 210.
boat-builders, 79, 215.
sail-makers, 79, 215.
yeassity ( yecessity t ) 92.
owners of, 96.
hospital boat, 258.
Shoes, 30, 140, 164, 165, 279, 280, 288.
(See also Continental Army.)
Shops or stalls in various parts of the town,
for supplying inhabitants with
butchers' meat, 81.
shop-keepers, 90, 92, 99.
Silver, 214.
Slaughter houses, 81, 90.
Small-pox, 9, 10, 14, 15, 323.
spread of, 15.
further, 15.
innoculation for, 9, 15, 16.
(.^te also Diseases, infectious.)
Soap-boilers, 76.
(See also Trades.)
Soldiers, see Troops.
South Battery, 153, 155.
(See also Battery.)
End, 55, 75, 120, 210.
school at, 120, 123, 124, 138, 164,
178, 179, 238.
South grammar school, 25, 35, 103, 104, 223.
master of, 25, 223.
usher of, 35, 103,
104.
(See also Schools.)
Southern States, embargo on flour and
bread corn in the, 39.
Speech, freedom of, to secure, 127, 132.
liberty of, and of the Press, 128,
132.
abuse of,
132.
of Governor Livingstone, relative
to return of renegades, 28.
State artillery service, 77.
(See also Troops.)
Convention, 81.
to call. 63, 66.
House, 86, 152, 106, 216, 309, 330.
hospital, see Hospital.
Secretary of, 151.
street, 303.
(See also Streets.)
tax, 8, 250.
(See alao Taxes.)
treasury, 8.
Statistics as to non-commissioned officers
and soldiers of the Continental Army, 11.
Staves, Ki-e Wood.
Stockings, 30, 140, 164, 165.
(See also Continental Army.)
Stores, military, 220.
Stoughton, 17.
Streets, highways and byways :
surveyors of highways, 6, 112, 178,
231.
to patrol, 274.
refuse on, 115, 120.
to rake up and collect, 120.
leading to the North Mills, 203.
repairing of, 221, 251, 268, 318.
tax raised for, 235.
paving of, 221.
encroachments on, 294, 302, 303,304,
311,331.
Queen, Dock square, Common,
North square, Water, State.
Subscriptions, 9, 18, 26, 27, 38, 41, 42, 43, 74,
75, 94, 98, 99, 101, 102, 104, 105, 125,
140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 154, 157,
190, 191.
Suffolk, County of, 150, 151, 193, 244, 245,
307, 308. '
Sugar, 38, 44, 79, 89, 90, 101.
bakers, 90.
Sureties, bonds to be given as, 67, 68, 119,
232, 234, 243, 251, 298.
352
CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Sureties to be put in suit, 201, 240, 251,253,
265.
Surveyors of Boards, see Wood.
Hemp, see Hemp.
Highways, see Streets, high-
ways.
Wheat, tee Breadstuff s.
Tailors, 79.
(See also Trades.)
Tallow Chandlers, 76.
(See also Trades.)
Tanners, 76, 79.
(See also Trades.)
Tar, 79.
Taxes, 253, 254, 255, 261, 264, 265, 266, 267,
287.
collectors of, 3, 26, 30, 53, 55, 61, 67,
68,112, 116, 117, 121,
122, 142, 143, 144, 148,
155, 163, 164, 166, 167,
168,174,176,179, 183,
189,197,199,200,201,
202, 206, 208, 209, 212,
215,231,233,235,238,
242, 243, 249, 250, 251,
252,253,254,255,256,
260, 261, 262, 264, 267,
268.
premiums, 8, 55, 61, 68,
119,248,316,318.
choice of, 3, 7, 112, 113,
116,117,119,174, 186,
227, 240, 261, 262, 264,
2S7, 295, 297.
allowance to, 68, 108,
118, 240.
petition of, 197, 198,
199.
abatement of, 7, 10, 26, 53, 54, 68, 114,
117,121, 123, 183, 197, 198, 237, 248,
249, 251, 253, 254, 262, 287, 297, 298,
316, 318.
tax to raise to defray expenses of the
town, 8, 10, 26, 73, 105, 120, 140,
141, 142, 143, 144, 146, 149, 153, 154,
168, 182,201,211,213.
lamp tax, 333.
state tax, 8, 250, 260, 315.
poll tax, 8, 10, 14, 18,26, 27, 57, 67, 73,
105, 120, 124, 140, 142, 146, 149, 154,
158, 182, 206, 207, 211, 235, 238, 255,
261, 264, 319, 334.
real estate, 10, 14, 18, 26, 27, 57,73, 105,
120, 124, 140, 142, 146, 149, 154, 155,
166, 182, 206, 207,211, 235, 238, 251,
254, 255, 261, 264, 319, 334.
commission, 121.
method of levying more equitably, 56,
60.
rate bills, 67, 179, 183, 207, 237, 242,
252.
tax to raise to obtain supplies for the
poor, 98, 120; 121, 190.
of non-residents of the town, 157,
198.
residents not doing business, 169.
beef, 166, 261,264.
act relative to, 169.
relative to present mode of assessing
and collecting, 176, 179.
state, county and town, 179, 182.
one standard of taxation, 179, 182, 183.
delinquents, 195, 212, 217, 262, 334.
raised for repairs of streets, 235.
lack of proper lists of rateable estates,
265.
list of persons and taxes not collected,
to furnish, 287.
Tea, 38, 101.
Teamsters, 79, 82, 86.
(See also Trades.)
Tender Act (so-called), 177.
(See also Act.)
Thirteen States, the, confederation of, 216.
Tinmen, 79.
(See alxo Trades.)
Titles to land, 56, 311, 314, 327.
(See also Lands.)
Town, cleansing of, 16.
Clerk, 3, 47, 49, 60, 81, 85, 95, 96, 98,
123, 125, 136, 142, 143, 144,
149, 153, 159, 167, 184, 190,
199, 206, 219, 244, 247, 251,
253, 272, 274, 279, 291, 292,
299, 301, 318.
pro tern., 86, 87.
choice of, 107, 172, 226.
to furnish the Representa-
tives with attested copy of
town's resolution relative
to return of renegades,
28.
attested memorial and address
to the Major-General and
Commander of the army,
40.
to have 150 votes relative to
wood printed, 96.
salary of, 149-50.
copy of testimonial to present
to John Hancock, Esq., 155.
to furnish assessors with at-
tested copies of vote, 199.
to have address to the Mar-
quis Fayette and his re-
ply published in the several
newspapers, 218.
cryer, 144, 184.
debit and credit of the, 7, 53, 114, 177,
181, 182, 201, 248, 249, 298.
dock, 46, 305.
abutterson, 311, 314,316, 317,
318, 326, 327.
to fill up, 311.
expenses of, to defray, 8, 10, 11, 148,
149, 201.
house, 61, 135.
land, raising- of vegetables upon, 00,
114, 115, 118, 178, 180.
lamps to be again lit up, 327, 330.
meetings, 1,2, 3, 7,8,9,11,12, 13,14,
15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 24, 26, 27,
28, 30, 31, 32, 34, 36, 37, 39, 43, 44,
47, 48, 49, 51, 54, 56, 57, 58, 59, 61,
62, 63, 65, 67, 68, 69, 70, 72, 73, 74,
75,76,77,80, 82, 83,84, 85,86, 87,
89, 90, 91, 93, 94, 95, 97, 99, 100, 101 ,
102, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 111,
113, 115, 118, 120, 122, 124, 125, 135,
150, 152, 153, 155, 156, 158, 160, 165,
169, 170, 172, 192, 200, 204, 211, 218,
219, 224, 226, 227, 22S, 241, 242, 244,
246, 261, 265, 267, 270, 273, 275, 276,
277, 289, 291, 307, 309, 319, 321, 323,
325.
officers, 126, 251, 299, 301.
choice of, 3-6, 7, 49, 108, 109,
110, 111, 112, 128, 172-75,
177, 178, 180, 184, 185, 186,
187, 193, 226-233, 292-293,
295-301, 329.
time of service of, to limit,
126.
quota of men called for, from the,
for the continental army, 19, 140,
156, 160, 161, 163, 170, 191, 194, 195,
196, 198, 204, 205, 206, 209, 235, 236,
238, 241, 243, 244, 268, 269.
statistics of, 194.
arms assigned to, 59, 231.
proportion of fines, 174, 176, 180, 181,
189, 195.
quota of supplies for the army, 249.
records, 26, 32, 60, 73, 98, 116, 117,
144,317.
resolves, 92, 99.
(See also Laws.)
INDEX TO PLACES AND SUBJECTS.
353
Town treasurer, 4, 7, 14, 18, 25, 51, 57, 64,
68, 69, 71, 86, 105,106, 112,
113, 118, 119, 140, 146, 147,
153, 154, 164, 166,167, 168,
176, 177, 180, 181, 182, 187,
188, 189, 190, 195, 199, 201,
202, 206, 208, 221, 222, 232,
234, 235, 237, 239, 240, 242,
252, 265, 269, 286, 287, 293-
94, 298, 300, 316, 321, 331,
333.
allowance to, 71, 119.
books of, 26, 116, 118, 223,
248, 256, 315, 316, 318.
to receive subscriptions, 38,
41.
to issue negotiable notes,
18, 27, 38, 57, 61, 64, 98,
104, 105, 126, 141-42, 146,
167, 168, 242, 252.
monies to deposit with, 42.
to draw on, for, 42,
68, 69, 114, 124, 221,
240.
to open new set of books,
201.
resignation of, 227.
choice of new, 227.
bonds of 232, 234.
thanks to old, for services,
227.
to supply with provisions, etc., 89,
92, 93, 95.
wood, 93, 96.
grain, 101, 140.
security of the, at night, measures
for, 326, 327, 329.
watch, 211, 221,222,274.
(See also Watch.)
Town's title to its real estate, 56.
valuation, 180.
(See also Lands.)
Trade, 13, 214, 215, 323.
decline of, 10, 215.
illicit, 157,187,270, 271, 272, 273, 274,
275.
preservation of, 215, 314.
income by, 264.
Traders, 92, 94, 99.
to furnish account of all sales, etc.,
90.
to wait on, 90, 91.
Trades :
bakers, 35, 46, 92, 266, 26".
butchers, 76, 81, 82.
tanners, 76.
leather dressers, 76, 79.
tallow chandlers, 76.
soap boilers, 76.
ship-carpenters, 79, 215.
carpenters, 79.
caulkers, 79, 215.
riggers, 78, 215.
ship joiners, 79, 215.
housewrights, 79.
masons, 79.
blacksmiths, 79.
block makers, 79, 215.
carvers. 79.
cabinet-makers, 79.
pewterers, 79.
printers, 79-
ropemakers, 79.
boat builders, 79, 215.
coopers, 79.
cordwainers, 79.
tinmen, 79.
sailmakers, 79, 215.
tanners, 79.
hatters, 79. 87, 97.
barbers, 79.
hair dressers, 79.
tailors, 79.
painters, 79.
Trades :
truckmen, 79.
farriers, 79.
glaziers, 79.
card makers, 79.
hucksters, 80.
fishmongers, 80.
goldsmiths, 80.
teamsters, 82, 86.
sugar bakers, 90.
Traitors, xee Renegades.
Treasurer, town, see Town.
county, 6, 51, 110, 113, 116, 117,
118, 174, 175, 227, 237, 294.
state, 67, 113, 116, 117, 118, 122,
199. 237.
Treasury, state, 8, 55, 67, 116, 117, 118, 121,
123, 157, 249, 269.
town, 53, 55, 116, 117, 118, 121, 123,
140, 165, 166, 211, 213, 231, 235,
238, 240, 248, 250, 259, 298.
county, 53, 55, 116, 117, 118, 121,
298.
Treaty of Peace, 214, 216, 217, 219.
Troops, 1, 2, 19, 106, 107, 108, 140, 170, 171,
258, 259, 276, 278, 289-90.
soldiers' families, to provide for,
8, 10, 11, 14, 68, 115, 124, 249.
names of non-commissioned officers
and soldiers to ascertain, 11.
statistics of, 11, 19.
Col. Craft's Regiment, 15.
Boston Regiment, 16, 141, 171, 172,
328.
Twenty-ninth regiment, 1, 2, 47, 48,
49, 106, 107, 108, 170, 224, 225, 226,
290, 291.
drafting of men, 16.
state artillery, 77.
illegal inlisting of, 238-39, 241.
Truckmen, 79.
(See also Trades.)
Turk's Island, 92.
(See also Islands.)
Turpentine, 79.
Twenty-ninth regiment, 1, 2, 47, 48, 49, 108,
107, 108, 170.
(See also Troops.)
United States, 216, 275, 276, 278, 279.
Valuation of the town, 180.
Vegetables, 58, 60, 81, 114, 115, 118, 119, 120,
178, 180, 181, 301, 302, 313.
Visitation of schools, 300.
Votes, certain, 179, 182, 183, 185, 186, 199,
246, 309.
for Governor, Lieut. -Governor, and
six Senators, 245, 307, 308.
question of validity of, for seven rep-
resentatives, 246.
War, prisoners of, at large, 70, 71, 72.
escape of, 157.
money to raise to carry on the, 140-41,
142, 145, 146, 154.
heavy taxation in order to carry on,
179.
importations and exportations during
the, 214, 215, 216.
board of, 29, 32, 33, 231, 244, 326.
certain demands of, against the
town, 326, 327, 328.
expenditures owing to the, 249.
committee to inquire into, 249.
statistics, 249.
Wardens, 241, 281, 282, 283.
choice of, 3, 4, 7, 14, 50, 54, 109,
173, 17J, 178, 184, 185, 237, 238,
277, 292-93, 294.
excused from service, 13, 109, 122,
178.
not to be,
116.
354
CITY DOCUMENT No. 80.
Wards or Precincts, 10, 22, 30, 74, 75, 78, 82,
105, 140, 161, 162, 163,
165, 166, 190, 191, 266,
267, 268, 269, 288, 301,
305.
quantity of flour and
other necessities in the
different, 36, 37, 38.
taxes to collect in the,
67, 140, 143, 145, 182,
266.
military, 179, 182.
subscriptions for the
poor, to be raised in
the, 190, 191, 205.
Warrants, 1, 3, 8, 11, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 24,26,
27, 28, 29, 30, 36, 42, 45, 46, 47, 49, 54, 55,
56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 67, 69,
70, 72, 73, 82, 84, 86, 87, 96, 98, 99, 102,
103, 104, 105, 106, 108, 115, 120, 122, 124,
125, 135, 136, 137, 138, 144, 150, 152, 155,
157, 158, 160, 164, 165, 166, 169, 170, 172,
178, 180, 181, 185, 187, 192, 194, 195, 196,
197, 200, 203, 204, 205, 206, 208, 209, 211,
212, 221, 224, 226, 228, 231, 235, 236, 244,
246, 247, 248, 255, 261, 265, 266, 267, 268,
269, 270, 2», 276, 277, 279, 286, 287, 289,
292, 294, 298, 299, 300, 301, 307, 309, 310,
311, 316, 319, 320, 321, 323, 325, 326, 327,
328, 329, 330, 331, 332.
Waste land, see Lands.
Watch, 143, 144, 153, 155, 163, 174, 175, 176,
179, 183, 184, 186, 188, 189, 191, 192,
198, 203, 210, 227, 229, 233, 239, 251.
constables of, 22, 53, 59, 73, 97, 105,
112, 116, 118, 120, 121, 123, 124, 136,
241, 242, 243, 293, 299, 301, 305, 306,
309, 320, 329, 330.
at New Boston, 106.
to reinstate, 106.
fuel and candles for, 330.
Eayment of, 210, 269, 330.
ouses, 329, 330, 332.
town. 211, 221, 222, 274.
additional, 327, 332.
Water street, 303.
(See also Streets.)
Ways and Means, Committee on, 180.
to appoint,
176, 182,
185.
duties of,
176.
West Boston, 15.
hospital at, 15.
waste land at, 60.
watch at, 106.
town's land at, 96, 118, 180,
181.
India goods, 79, 101 .
importations, 215.
West Indies, 78, 323.
(See also Islands.)
Weymouth, 93, 94.
Wharves, 37, 93.
wharfingers to report amount of
wood on their re-
spective, 37.
orders to, 85.
report of, 38.
prices allowed, 79.
cording, 79.
sealing, 79.
carrying off wood,
79.
Oliver's dock, 301, 303, 325, 329.
Curtis' wharf, 310.
Bell's, 92.
Wheat, see Breadstuff's.
Will of the late Justice Pemberton, relative
to the, 189.
Willis's Paper, 85.
(See also Newspapers.)
Wine, 98. 100.
Winnisimit Ferry, to repair, 72.
(See also Ferries.)
Wood, 82, 97, 302, 303.
to provide for families of non-com,
missioned officers and soldiers, 10.
surveyors or sealers or measurers of,
5, 11, 94, 96, 99, 110, 111,
229, 232.
allowance to, 96.
to provide for the poor, 29.
wharfingers to report quantity, on
wharves, 37.
report of, 38.
market for, 301
cord, 38, 85, 86.
boards, surveyors of, 51, 111, 136,
174, 178, 130, 295, 296, 301.
staves, 215.
cullers of, 52, 111, 175, 230,
296, 329.
fire, 84, 85, 93, 94.
to measure, 86, 96.
sale of, to limit, 86.
town to supply with fire-wood, 93,
96.
price of, 94.
to limit supply of, 86, 96.
votes relative to sale of, to print,
96.
building with, 325.
Workhouse, the, 115, 119, 120.
sum to order, 119.
(See also Almshouse.)
Writing schools, see Schools.
Writs, 127.
of habeas corpus, 133.
distress, 261.
.
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