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SKETCHES AND CHEONICLES
TOWN OF LITCHFIELD.
OONNEOTIOUT,
HISTORICAL, BIOGRAPHICAL, AND STATISTICAL;
TOGETHER WITH A
COMPLETE OFFICIAL REGISTER OF THE TOWN.
BY PAYNE KENYON KILBOURNE, M. A.,
SECRETARY OP THE LITCHFIELD COUNTY UISTORICAL AND ANTIQUARIAN SOCIETY.
HARTFORD:
PRESS OF CASE, LOCKWOOD AND COMPANY.
1859.
PREFACE.
The Town of Litchfield was first settled by emigrants
from Hartford, Windsor, Wethersfield, Farmington and
Lebanon, in 1720-'21. In 1751, the County of Litch-
field was incorporated and organized, and at the same
time Litchfield was established as the county-seat, and
such it still remains. The township is located near
the centre of the county, which occupies the north-west
corner of the State of Connecticut. It is agreeably
diversified by hills, vallies, mountains, lakes, forests and
cultivated fields ; and is inhabited, for the most part,
by an industrious, thriving, intelligent and happy people.
Thus much for the information of the stranger whose
eye may casually glance at this Preface.
It has been the design of the author of these pages,
to trace the rise and progress of that little settlement
in the wilderness, during the lapse of one hundred and
forty years, to the present time. The history of many a
town at the West, tells of a sudden and gigantic growth
af which our fathers would have marveled. I have no
such stories to relate. The early history of Litchfield is
one of peril and privation — of patient industry, and slow
development. Our fathers, the pioneers of this region,
were earnest, hardy and fearless men, who, in addition
to the labors of backwoods-men, found abundant oppor-
IV PREFACE.
tunities for the display of their heroism in guarding their
humble fire-sides from the prowling wolf and stealthy
savage. The annals of such a people, and their succes-
sors, cannot be devoid of interest to any one ; and should
especially be cherished with the liveliest satisfaction by
those who are able to claim descent from them. I have
long been engaged in collecting the records and tradi-
tions possessing a local interest, with a view of ultimate-
ly giving them to the public. My " labor of love " for
the good old town that gave me birth, is at length con-
cluded, for the present at least. I trust the reader will
share, in some small degree, the pleasure which the au-
thor has felt in gathering up and sending forth these
Memorials of the Past. Much more of perhaps, equal
interest, still remains unpublished ; but it will be seen
that I have already exceeded my promised limits. The
Family Genealogies in my possession, and for which I
had hoped to find room, would alone fill a volume of the
size of this. In the latter part of the work, especially,
the power of condensation has been thoroughly tested.
I take this opportunity to express my acknowledg-
ments to those who have preceded me in my field of
exploration, and whose footsteps I have sometimes
found it convenient to follow. In 1818, a pamphlet by
James Morris, Esq., was published, entitled — " A Statis-
tical Account of. Several Towns in Litchfield County,"
which contains much valuable information relative to
this town. In 1845, our fellow-townsman, George C.
Woodruff, Esq., published a History of Litchfield in a
pamphlet of sixty pages — an excellent work.
Litchfield, Conn., June 15, 1859. p. k. k.
INDEX.
CHAPTER I.
Events in Connecticut preceding the settlement of
Litchfield. Bantam, &c. — Reference to the Old Patent of Con-
necticut; the Constitution of 1639 ; Sir Edmund Andros ; the West-
ern Lands conveyed away ; trouble arising therefrom ; a comjiromise
effected ; earliest record relating to " the New Plantation ;" Indian
Deed ; List of Original Proprietors ; confirming Act of the Assembly;
the word Bantam ; Lichfield, in England ; derivation of the word.
CPIAPTER IL
Incidents of the First Settlement. — First Town Meeting ;
first list of Town Officers ; conditions annexed to the Deeds ; forfeit-
ed Rights ; second list of Town Officers ; first meeting-house ; village
streets ; choice of home-lots ; capture and escape of Captain Gris-
wold ; President D wight's account of the Restored Captive ; murder
of Joseph Harris by the Indians.
CHAPTER IIL
Alarms and Measures of Defense. — Litchfield in 1723 ; list
of First Settlers ; Garrisons erected ; soldiers sent to the relief of
Litchfield ; Governor Talcott's memoranda ; Memorials of the settlers ;
Acts concerning non-resident proprietors ; Bounty for killing Indians ;
Samuel Beebe'e testimony ; Petition of Rose and others ; more sol-
diers for the defense of Litchfield ; Petition for a Patent ; Copy of
tlie Patent.
CHAPTER IV.
Miscellaneous Events. — Condition of the settlers ; Roger Wol-
cott ; guardianship of Hartford and Windsor ; Bantam Swamp ; Ed-
ucation ; first School House ; lease of the School Right ; seating the
meeting-house ; north and south Boundaries ; Davies Hollow set off
to Washington ; South Farms, Northfield and Milton incorporated ;
town of Goshen organized in Litchfield ; wild animals ; Litchfield in
1760-78 ; the Fishei*ies of Bantam ; the Bantam Indians ; the Mo-
VI INDEX.
hawks ; Indian Relics ; carved Stone Image ; Human Sacrifices ;
Raumaug ; Parson Boardman's Long Prayer ; location of the Gar-
risons ; orthography ; the West Burying- Ground ; John Marsh and
John Buel.
CHAPTER V.
Events Preceding the Revolution. — Litchfield County or-
ganized ; first County Ofiicers ; opposition of "Woodbury ; Sabbath-
Day Houses ; the Acadians or French Neutrals ; French War ;
Litchfield ofiicers and soldiers ; Roll of Captain McNeile's company ;
Colonel Beebe ; the Stamp Act ; proceedings of a meeting in Litch-
field ; Revolutionary preparations ; indications of Progress ; high-
ways to Goshen and Cornwall laid out.
CHAPTER VI.
The Revolutionary Era. — Proceedings of a town meeting ;
Committees of Inspection appointed ; Aaron Burr ; Ethan Allen ;
Captain Beebe's company ; memoranda relating to them ; capture of
Fort Washington ; terrible fate of the prisoners ; Lieut. Catlin's
statement; the leaden statue of King George brought to Litchfield,
and cast into bullets ; account current ; Litchfield officers and soldiers ;
letters from Dr. Smith to General Wolcott ; Paul Peck killed ; pris-
oners of war in Litchfield Jail ; Governor Franklin ; Mayor Mat-
thews ; the Episcopalians and the Revolution.
CHAPTER VII.
The Revolutionary Era — continued. — Depots for military
stores and provisions ; workshops for the army ; team sent here with
powder, shot, and lead ; General Wolcott ; Sherifi^ Lord ; clothing
and provisions for the army ; teams pass through Litchfield for the
army : votes in town meetings ; committees appointed ; Father
Champion's Prayer ; a Prussian General arrives in town ; Wash-
ington visits Litchfield ; anecdotes and incidents ; desertions from
the enemy ; the Morrises ; Gatta, the Hessian.
CHAPTER VIII.
Men of the Revolution. — Biographical Sketches of Ethan
Allen, Elisha Sheldon, Oliver Wolcott, Andrew Adams, Bezaleel
Beebe, Jedediah Strong, Benjamin Tallmadge, Tapping Reeve, Mo-
ses Seymour, and Elisha Mason.
CHAPTER IX.
Progress and Improvement. — Pastimes of our ancestors ; the
Stolen Bride ; the Law School, and the Litchfield Monitor ; anecdote
of General Tracy ; opposition to Stoves in the old meeting-house ;
modes of traveling ; the first Post Office in this town ; list of Letters ;
Turnpikes and Stage-Coaches ; list of Postmasters.
INDEX, VIJ
CHAPTER X.
Ecclesiastical Matters. — First Society. — Difficulties with
]Mr Collins ; votes relating thereto ; sketch of his history ; settlement
of Mr Champion ; building of the second meeting-house ; first soci-
ety organized ; votes at its meetings ; settlement of Messrs. Hunting-
ton, Beecher and Carroll ; new house of worship erected ; settlement
of JNIessi s. Hickok, Brace, Swan, and Bacon ; officers of the church
and society. Episcopacy. — John Davies the first Episcopalian in the
town ; first Episcopal society organized ; lands given to the society ;
church named St. Michael's ; the Davies family ; sketches of the
early Rectors ; application for a Justice of the Peace denied ; form-
ation of the 2d Episcopal society ; the West Church erected ; Epis-
copalians in Milton and Northficld. Methodism. — Visits of Garret-
son and Asbury to Litchfield ; Litchfield Circuit formed ; list of min-
isters on the circuit ; names of methodists in the town in 1805 ; church
erected in this village in 1837 ; list of pastors. Baptists.
Biographical Notes, " 188
APPENDIX.
Colonial and State Officers; Chief Justices and Judges of the
Superior Court and Supreme Court of Errors ; Commissioners of the
Superior Court ; Justices of the Peace for Litchfield ; Judges and
Clerks of the Pi'obate Court ; Judges of the County Court ; U. S.
Senators, members of Congress 'and members of the Council, from
Litchfield county; Senators from the 15th District; County Officers,
Borough Officers, Town Officers ; Prosecuting Attornies for the
county ; Corpoi'ations, Societies and Institutions in Litchfield ; Roll
of Representatives, List of Graduates, Physicians, &c. Miscellane-
ous Articles. Biographical Addenda. 201
HISTOKY OF LITCHPIELD.
CHAPTER I.
EVENTS IN CONNECTICUT PRECEDING THE SETTLEMENT OF LITCH-
FIELD. BANTAM, ETC.
In 1630, about ten years after the landing of the pilgrims on
Plymouth Rock, the whole of the territory of the present State
of Connecticut was conveyed by the Plymouth Company to
Robert, Earl of Warwick. On the 19th of March of the suc-
ceeding year, the Earl executed under his hand and seal the
grant since known as the Old Patent of Connecticut, wherein
he transferred the same tract to Viscount Say and Seal, Lord
Brooke, John Hampden, John Pym, Sir Richard Saltonstall,
and others. In the summer of 1635, the towns of Hartford,
Wethersfield and Windsor, on the Connecticut river, first
began to be settled by emigrants fromlthe vicinity of Boston
in Massachusetts. Still a year later, the Rev. Thomas Hooker
and his congregation made their celebrated journey through
the wilderness, from Cambridge, Massachusetts, to Hartford,
where they took up their permanent residence. In 1637, the
Pequot War was begun and terminated — resulting in the
expulsion and almost total annihilation of the most formida-
ble tribe of Indians in the colony.
The first Constitution adopted by the people of Connecticut
bears date, January 15, 1688-'9. This continued to form the
basis of our colonial government until the arrival of the Char-
ter of Charles II., in 1662, when it was nominally superceded.
Alternate troubles with^ the Dutch and Indians kept the
settlers, for many years, in a perpetual state of discipline and
alarm. But while the political commotions in the old world
sometimes agitated the other American colonies, the people of
Connecticut had from the first felt that their civil rights were
guaranteed to them beyond the reach of any contingency. The
3
18 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Royal Charter was but a confirmation ofprivileges which they
had long enjoyed. No king-appointed Governor or Council
annoyed them by their presence or oppressed them by their
acts ; but the voters were left to choose their own rulers and
enact their own laws. Indeed, the influence of the crown was
for a long period scarcely felt in the colony. On the acces-
sion of James II., however, in 1685, the whole aspect of affairs
was changed. It was soon rumored that His Majesty had de-
termined to revoke all the charters granted by his predecessors.
The arrival of Sir Edmund Andros at Boston, in December
1686, bearing a commission as " Governor of New Englmid,'^
was an event not calculated to allay the apprehensions of the
people of Connecticut. His reputation was that of a selfish,
grasping despot, bent upon enriching himself and immediate
friends at the expense of the colonists. At this time, the
entire region now known as the County of Litchfield, (except
a solitary settlement at Woodbury, on its southern frontier,)
was an unexplored wilderness, denominated the Western
Lands. To save these lands from the control and disposal of
Andros, the Legislature granted them to the towns of Hart-
ford and Windsor — at least so much of them as lay east of the
Housatonic river. When the usurpations of Andros were
over, and the charter had found its way back from the hollow
of the oak to the Secretary's office, the Colonial Assembly at-
tempted to resume its title to these lands ; but the towns re-
ferred to steadfastly resisted all such claims. The quarrel
was long kept up, but no acts of hostility were committed un-
til efforts were made to dispose of the tract. Collisions then
became frequent. Explorers, agents and surveyors, of one
party, were summarily arrested and expelled from the dispu-
ted territory by the contestants. On one occasion, several
offenders Ijelonging to the Hartford and Windsor party, were
imprisoned by the colonifal authorities. A mob assembled,
broke open the jail, and set the prisoners at large. A com-
promise followed, confirming to the towns and the claimants
under them, the lands of Litchfield and apart of those of New
Milford. The other portions of the territory were intended
to be equally divided between the colony and the claiming
EXPLORATION AND PURCHASE OF THE TOWNSHIP. 19
towns. Thus Torrington, Barkliamsted, Colebrook, and a
part of Harwinton, were appropriated to Windsor ; Hartland,
Winchester, New Hartford, and the remaining portion of Har-
winton, were given to Hartford ; the other lands in dispute,
now constituting the townships of Norfolk, Goshen, Canaan,
Kent, Sharon and Salisbury, were retained by the colony. It
should be added, that a small portion of the township of Litch-
field was claimed by certain citizens of Farmington, by virtue
of a deed of purchase from the Indians, dated August 11,
1714. On the 11th of June, 1718, the Farmington claimants
relinquished their rights to Hartford and Windsor, and in lieu
thereof received one-sixth of all the lands of the town in fee.
All business relating to the Western Lands was transacted
by committees appointed by the claiming towns and by the
General Court. In 1715, these towns (Hartford and Wind-
sor,) took the initiatory steps toward exploring that portion of
the western wilderness now embraced within our corporation
limits, and purchasing whatever rights the natives possessed,
or claimed to possess, to the soil. It would be interesting to
know who was the first individual of the Anglo-Saxon race
that ever visited the localities so cherished by us all. The
earliest record-evidence on this point, is contained in an entry
hi the first Book of Records in our Town Clerk's office,*
which is as follows :
" TJie Town of Hartford, Dr.
To John Marsh,
May 1715, For 5 days, man and horse, with expenses,
in viewing the Land at the New Plantation, £ 2 0 0
The Toton of Hartford, Dr.
Jan. 22, 171o-'16, To 6 days journey to Woodbury,
to treat with the Indians about the Western Lands,
by Thomas Seymour, £ 1 4 0
To expenses in the journey, 114 9
£ 2 18 9
* The following is written on the first page of the book referred to — "This booke be-
. longing to the Towne of Hartford, into which we, the Committee for Managing the
affairs of the Western Grants, have entered our proceedings relating thereto, in con-
junction with the Committee for the Towne of Windsor — as also an account of our dis-
bursements therein." Dated June 17, 1718.
20 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
The Town of Hartford, Dr.
To Thomas Seymour, Committy,
May 1716, By 2 quarts of Rum, £0 2 6
Expenses at Farmington, 4 9
Expenses at Waterbury, 1 7
Paid Thomas Miner towards the Indian purchase, 7 10 0
Expenses at Woodbury 2 110
Expenses for a Pilot and protection, 1 10 0
Fastening hoi-se-shoes at Waterbury, 2 0
Expenses at Waterbury, 1 8
Expenses to Col. Whiting for writing 40 deeds, £ 1 10 0
" to Capt. Cooke for acknowledging 18 deeds, 18 0
" to Ensign Seymour, 1 0 0
" at Arnold's, 1 7 0
" by sending to Windsor, 0 4 0
August 4, 1718.— Sold 11 lots for £49 10 0
Expenses for writing 20 deeds, to Mr. Fitch, 10 0
" to Capt. Cooke for acknowledging deeds, 7 0
" for making out a way, 2 0 0
« at Arnold's, 11 o
" to Tho's Seymour for perambulating north line, 1 6 4
« at Arnold's, 10 4
Feb. 10, 1818. — At a meeting of the Committees, then sold
16 lots reserved by Marsh for Hartford's part, 37 17 9
At same meeting, paid by John Marsh for expenses, 12 0
At same meeting, loss of money by mistake in acc't. 3 0
April 14, 1719. — A meeting of the Committees, expenses, 6 0
April 27. — At a meeting of the Committees, expenses, 7 ."
By the earliest of these entries, we learn that Mr. John
Marsh was sent out from Hartford " to view the lands of the
new plantation," in May, 1715. He may, therefore, be re-
garded as emphatically the pioneer-explorer of this township.
It is not improbable that an occasional hunter or adventurer
had previously visited these hills, and carried hence an ac-
count of our beautiful lake and the rich alluvial meadows on
its banks ; but there is extant no written or traditionary evi-
dence pointing to such an event. Mr. Marsh became an ori-
ginal proprietor and early settler of the town, and was one of
its most important and useful men. He was the progenitor
of all bearing his name in Litchfield — a numerous and respec-
table family. Mr. Thomas Seymour, of Hartford, appears in
the record as the next explorer, and as the agent " to treat with
the Indians" relative to the purchase of these lands. The sub-
sequent items, though unimportant in themselves, are never-
INDIAN DEED. 21
theless deemed worthy of preservation, as they embrace all the
information contained in onr Town Books touching the action
of the Committees relative to the lands in question, previous
to the settlement.
The negotiations resulted in purchasing from the Indians all
the lands in the original township of Bantam or Litchfield.
The sum paid therefor in behalf of the Committees, though
seemingly small, was dou1)tless satisfactory to the natives.
Their estimate of land was founded mainly upon its value to
them for hunting ; and as they made a " reservation " for that
purpose, the " fifteen pounds in hand received" was, we have
reason to believe, to their " full satisfaction and contentment,"
as is expressed in the Deed — which was executed at Wood-
bury, March 2d, 1715-'16 :
" To all People to whom these Presents shall co77ie, Greeting :
KNOW YE that we, Cliusquenoag, Corkscrew, Quiump, Mag-
nash, Kehow, Sepunkum, Poni, Wonposet, Suckqunnokqueen, To-
weecume, Mansumpansh, and Norkgnotonckquy, Indian Natives
belonging to the Plantation of Potatuck within the Colony of Connec-
ticut, for and in consideration of the sum of fifteen pounds money in
hand received to our full satisfaction and contentment, have given,
granted, bargained and sold, and by these presents do fully, freely
and absolutely give, grant, bargain and confirm, unto Col. William
Whiting, Mr. John Marsh and Mr. Thomas Seymour, a Committee
for the town of Hartford ; and Mr. John Eliot, Mr. Daniel Griswold
and Mr. Samuel Rockwell, a Committee for the town of Windsor, for
themselves and in behalf of the rest of the Inhabitants of the towns of
Hartford and Windsor,a certain tract of Land, situate and lyino- north
of Waterbury bounds, abutting southerly, partly on Waterbury and
partly on Woodbury ; from Waterbury River westward across a part
of Waterbury bounds, and across at the north end of Waterbury bounds
to Shepaug River, and so northerly in the middle of Shepaug River,
to the sprains of Shepaug River below Mount Tom, thence°running
up the east branch of Shepaug River to a place where the said River
runs out of Shepaug Pond, from thence to the north end of said Pond
then east to Waterbury River, then southerly as the River runs, to
to the north end of Waterbury bounds upon the said River ; which
said Tract of Land thus described. To Have and to Hold to the
said Col. William Whiting, Mr. John Marsh and Mr. Thomas Sey-
mour, Mr. John Eliot, Mr. Daniel Griswold aud Mr. Samuel Rock-
well, Committees of the Towns of Hartford and Windsor as aforesaid
m behalf of themselves and the rest of the Inhabitants of said Towns^
to them, their heirs and assigns, to use, occupy and improve, as their
own proper right of Inheritance, for their comfort forever; together
■with all the privileges, appurtenances and conditions to the same be
22 HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
longing, or in any wise appertaining. And Further, we, the said
Cliusquenoag, Corkscrew, Quiump, Magnash, Kehow, Sepunkum,
Poni, Wonposet, Suckqunnokqueen, Toweecurao, Mansumpansh and
Norkgnotonckquy, owners and proprietors of the above granted Land,
do, for ourselves and our heirs, to and with tlie above said WilHam
Whiting, John Marsh, Thomas Seymour, John Eliot, Daniel Griswold
and Samuel Rockwell, Committees as aforesaid, them, their heirs and
assigns, covenant and engage, that we have good right and lawful
authority to sell the above granted land ; And Futher, at the desire
and request of the aforesaid Committees, and at their own proper cost
and cliarge, will give a more ample deed.
And for a more full confirmation hereof, we have set our hands and
seals, this second day of March, in the second year of His Majesties
Reign, A. D. 1715.
Memorandum. — Before the executing of this instrument, it is to be
understood, that the grantors above named have reserved to themselves
a piece of ground sufficient for their hunting houses, near a mountain
called Mount Tom."
This document is subscribed by the Indians named in the
beginning of the deed — the last one excepted. As the " un-
couth scrawls" used by them for signatures, are meaningless,
and were undoubtedly drawn quite at random by the aboriginal
signers, no attempt will here be made to imitate them. The
names of the ivitnesses subscribed to the deed are, Weroa-
maug, Wognacug, Tonhocks, John Mitchell, and Joseph Minor.
It was " acknowledged" before Mr. Minor, the Indian Inter-
preter, as follows :
" The Indians that subsci'ibed and sealed the above said deed, ap-
peared personally in Woodbury, the day of the date thereof, and ack-
nowledged the said deed to be their free and voluntary act and deed
Before me, JOHN MINOR."
In 1718, a Company was organized for the settlement of Ban-
tam. The township, which contained about 44,800 acres, was
divided into sixty rights or shares — three of which were reser-
ved for pious uses, viz., one share to the first minister and his
heirs forever ; one, for the use of the first minister and his suc-
cessors in the pastoral office ; and one, for the support of
Schools. Purchasers having been found for the remaining
fifty-seven rights, deeds of conveyance were made by the Com-
mittees, confirming the entire plantation to the new proprie-
tors. These deeds are dated, April 29, 1719 — fifty-five of
which are recorded on the Litchfield Land Records. The con-
OEIGINAL PROPRIETOES OP THE TOWN.
23
sideration for forty-eight shares, was X229 10 0, in bills of
credit ; for seven shares, the sum of X31 4 0 was paid. Mr.
John Marsh purchased the two remaining shares, but the price
paid therefor does not appear. The average cost of the land
to the lirst purchasers, did not exceed one penny and three
farthings per acre.
The subjoined list contains the names of all the " original
proprietors" of the township :
John Marsh * (2 Eights,) from Hartford., John Stoddarcl * Wethersfield.
Samuel Sedgwick, Jr,
Nathaniel Goodwin,
Timothy Seymour,
Paul Peck, Jr.,*
Joseph Mason,*
Nathaniel Messenger,
Benjamin Webster,*
Joshua Garrett,*
Samuel Forward,
Thomas Griswold, Jr.,
Jacob Gibbs,*
Joseph Birge,*
Benjamin Hosford,*
John Hart,
Timothy Stanley,
John Bird,*
Joseph Bird,*
Samuel Lewis,
Ebenezer WoodruiF,
Samuel Boot,
Nathaniel Winchell,
Hezekiah Winchell,
Joseph Gillett,*
Jonathan Buck,
William Goodrich, Jr.*
Windsor
Farmington.
Colchester.
New Milford.
Wethersfield.
Ezekiel Buck,*
Jacob Griswold,* "
John Biiel,* (2 Rights,) Lebanon.
Edward Culver, "
Hezekiah Culver,* "
Thomas Lee,* "
Eleazer Strong,* "
Supply Strong,*
Caleb Chapel, (2 Rights,)
Thomas Treadway,* "
John Caulkins, "
Ezekiel Sanford, (2 Eights,) Stratford.
Nathan Mitchell,* "
Thomas Pier,* "
John Mann, "
Joseph Peet, "
Samuel Somers, "
Nath'l Smith,* (2 Eights,) Taunton, Ms.
John Collins, "
Ephraim French, "
Josiah Walker,* Woodbury.
Samuel Orton,* "
Joseph Waller,* "
Isaac Judson, " ■
Those proprietors whose names are here designated by a
star (*) became settlers in the town. The Rights of a few
others were settled upon by the sons of the first purchasers ;
others sold out their interest to persons who became permanent
residents ; while a few forfeited their shares by neglecting to
comply with the terms of the purchase.
The title thus acquired was soon after confirmed by the fol-
lowing Act of the Legislature :
" At a General Assembly liolden at Hartford, May, A. D. 1719 :
UPON the Petition of Lieut. John Marsh, of Hartford, and
Deacon John Buel, of Lebanon, with many others, praying hberty,
under Committees appointed by the Towns of Hartford and Windsor,
to settle a Town westward of Farmington, at a place called Bantam.
This Assembly do grant liberty and full power, unto the said John
24 HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
Marsh and John Buel and partners settlers, being in the whole fifty-
seven in number, to settle a town at said Bantam : the said town to
be divided into sixty Rights, three whereof to be improved for pious
uses in said town. And the other fifty-seven shall, as soon as may
conveniently be, settled upon by the undertakers, or, upon their fail-
ure, by others that may be admitted. Said town to be in length, east
and west, eight miles, three-quarters and twenty-eight rods, and in
breadth seven miles and an half — being bounded eastward by Matta-
tuck River, westward the bigger part upon the most western branch
of the Shepaug River and partly upon the wilderness, north upon the
wilderness, and south by Waterbury bounds and a west line from
Waterbury corner unto Shepaug River ; said town to be known by
the name of LITCHFIELD, and to have the following figure for a
a brand for their horse hind, viz. 9. And the same powers and priv-
ileges that other towns in this Colony do enjoy, are hereby granted
to said town."
As this chapter may be regarded simply as an introduction
to the subject-matter of the volume, a brief reference to the
origin and meaning of the names by which this locality was
and is known, will not be out of place here.
The earliest designation applied to this particular portion of
the Western Lands, was Bantam — and the name is still borne
by our principal Lake and one of our largest Rivers. His-
torians have generally concurred in calling this the Indian or
Aboriginal name of the place. There appears to be good rea-
son, however, to doubt the correctness of such a conclusion.
Impressed with the belief that the word had a trans- Atlantic
origin, I have occasionally asked the opinion of such friends as
I knew to be familiar with the construction of languages, and
likely to be much better informed on the subject than myself.
In November, 1856, the Hon. Charles W. Bradley, LL. D.,
formerly Secretary of State, and now an American Consul in
China, thus responded to my enquiry and suggestion :
" As to the name " Bantam," I fully agree with you that it hath a
very un-Indian look and sound, nor have I ever regarded it as belong-
ing to any of our native dialects. I have no idea how it got there.
The only place of that name, within my ken, is near my late I'esidence
(Singapore,) where, in the Island of Java, is a town, once the capital
of a District of the same designation, containing 3,428 square miles.
Bantam is in lat. 6" S. long. 106" 13' E — forty-seven miles W. from
Batavia."
Prof. W. G. Peck, of Columbia College, New York, in Oc-
tober last, wrote :
BANTAM LITCHFIELD. 25
"You will remember our conversation about the word J5aw^am, and
that I took the ground that it was not of Indian^ origin. In looking
over an old History of Java, the other day, I came across the fact that
an expedition was iitted out in 1601, consisting of four ships belonging
to the then newly-formed " East India Company ;" and that the expe-
dition sailed under Captain Lancaster in 1 602, touching first at Acheen
and then at Bantam in Java. Captain Lancaster, during the latter
year, brought home a letter from the " King of Bantam " to Queen
Elizabeth. From all this, you will see that the Java Bantam was in
existence and had a king, eighteen years before the landing of the
Pilgrims — and I don't know how much earlier. Bantam was occupi-
ed by the Dutch in the sixteenth century, and was a place of much
consequence. In the Portuguese writings of Jono de Barras, (Lisbon
1777,) the place is called " Bintam or Bantam." I am unable to as-
certain whether the word is Dutch or Javanese ; at any rate, it is quite
clear that the name is not of Connecticut origin."
The English and Danes had factories at Bantam previous to
1682, at which date they were taken by the Dutch. The har-
bor was long a favorite rendezvous for British shipping in the
East. Of course the name was a familiar one in the English
colonies at the time of the exploration of these Western Lands.
Why it was transferred to this locality, must remain a matter
of conjecture ; perhaps it was because, like the Bantam of the
old world, this was a wild and almost unknown region, inhab-
ited by a race of barbarians ; perhaps, as has been suggested
by a distinguished antiquarian scholar, the name may have
first been given by the settlers on the Connecticut to an Indian
sachem residing in this vicinity, and, at a subsequent date,
the country may have been named from him. At all events,
it appears to have been the first designation by which this
township was ever known to the Anglo-Saxon race ; and as
such, is worthy of being retained and cherished.
The Town, as we have seen, was first called Litchfield in
the act of incorporation, passed during the May Session, 1719,*
and was so named from the ancient city of Lichfjf.ld, Staf-
fordshire, England — the t being added, probably by the legis-
lative clerk, and has ever since been retained. It was with
a sort of hallowed, home-sick feeling, that, in July 1855, the
author of this volume (then on his way from London to North
Wales,) made a brief stop at this famous ecclesiastical empori-
um. Long before reaching the Lichfield Station, the spires of
the noble Cathedral attracted the attention and elicited the
4
26 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
remarks of the numerous strangers on the train. It is hardly
to be presumed that this place received the name it bears, on
account of any supposed resemblance of its location to that of
the city whence its name is derived. The English Lichfield,
it is true, stands upon elevated ground, and is surrounded by
rural beauties which are rarely surpassed even in the British
Islands ; but the city cannot be said to stand on a hill, and the
face of the surrounding country is materially different from
the scenes upon which we are accustomed to look. With the
same broad meadows, pastures and cultivated fields, inter-
spersed with patches of wood-land, they lack the lake, and
forest, and mountain scenery, which forms a principal attrac-
tion of our landscapes. Lichfield is said to have been erected
into a bishopric as early as A. D. 656 — the first bishop bearing
the name of Diuma. The first cathedral was completed about
the year 700, in the time of Bishop Hedda. The founder of
the present edifice is stated to have been Roger de Clinton,
who came to the see in 1138 ; though, from the style of archi-
itecture, it is believed that much of the building was erected
during the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. At the com-
mencement of the civil wars, the Close of Lichfield was forti-
fied by the royalists, and the command entrusted to Lord Ches-
terfield. In March, 1643, the garrison was attacked by the
parliamentary forces under Lord Brooke, one of the Patentees
of Connecticut, who is said to have made a vow that if he
should succeed he would level the cathedral with the ground.
A day or two after, however, his lordship was shot dead, as he
walked along the street below, by a gentleman stationed on
the great tower of the church. The garrison soon surrendered
to the puritan army, who, if we are to believe Dugdale, de-
molished all the monuments, pulled down the curious carved
work, battered in the costly windows, destroyed the records,
stabled their horses in the aisles, and " every day hunted a
cat throughout the church, delighting themselves in the echo
from the goodly vaulted roof." These were strange pastimes,
surely, for puritan soldiers ; but doubtless the picture was
somewhat overdrawn by the royal historian. The garrison was
again captured by the royalists, and re-captured by the puri-
ETYMOLOGY OP LITCHFIELD. 27
tans. The cathedral suffered greatly from these successive
sieges. It was estimated that not less than two thousand can-
non-balls and fifteen hundred hand-grenades had been dischar-
ged against it. It was completely renovated by Bishop Hacket
during the reign of Charles II. The city contains several
churches, schools, and charitable institutions, and, in 1841,
had a population of 14,754. Its streets are narrow, but well
paved and well lighted ; many of the buildings are handsome,
and its general appearance is much above the average of Eng-
lish towns of its size. Its municipal officers are, a mayor, re-
corder, five aldermen, and eighteen Councilors. It is entitled
to two members of parliament. In this place were born Gar-
rick, Johnson, Lady Mary Wortley Montague, and other emi-
nent characters.
As to the etymology of the word Lichfield, or Litchfield,
Gorton in his " Topographical Dictionary of Great Britain and
Ireland," (London, 1833, vol. ii, p. 564,) says — " Various
derivations have been proposed of the name of this place ; but
it has generally been deduced from the term, Lich-field, signi-
fying the Field of the Dead — thus denominated, according to
some ecclesiastical historians, on account of the great number
of Cliristians having suffered martyrdom here during the Dio-
clesian persecution in the beginning of the fourth century."
In confirmation of this derivation, it may be added, that a field
in the neighborhood, bearing the name of Christian Field, is
still pointed out as the place where a thousand Christians were
slaughtered at one time. This definition also corresponds
with that given by the great lexicographer. Dr. Johnson, who
was a native of Lichfield. In Saxon times, this town formed a
portion of tlie extensive and powerful kingdom of Mercia,
which was christianized upon its conquest by Oswy, King of
Northumberland.
Our Litchfield (Connecticjit) was the first place on this
continent to bear the name. There are now seven other Litch-
fields in the United States, (all spelt with the ^,) viz., one in
each of the following States — Maine, New Hampshire, New
York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan and Kentucky. These
towns, with perhaps a single exception, were settled by Connec-
ticut people. In Ohio, there is a post office named Bantam.
CHAPTER II.
INCIDENTS OF THE FIRST SETTLEMENT.
The settlement of Litchfield was commenced by Capt. Ja-
cob Griswold, from Windsor, Ezekiel Buck, from Wethersfield,
and John Peck, from Hartford, all of whom removed their
families into the township during the summer of 1720. In
the course of this and the following year, several other families
— chiefly from Hartford, Lebanon, Wethersfield and Windsor —
erected log houses on their home-lots, and moved into them.
The record of what appears to have been the first Town
Meeting, is ivithout date. Dea. John Buel and Nathaniel
Smith were appointed a Committee to hire a minister, and " to
make and gather a rate, to pay him for his services amongst
us." This Committee employed Mr. Timothy Collins, of
Guilford, a young licentiate who had graduated at Yale Col-
lege in 1718. At the next Meeting, held November 6, 1721,
it was voted, " that Mr. Collins be forthwith called to a settle-
ment in this place in the work of the ministry ;" and it was stip-
ulated that he should receive fifty-seven pounds per year for
four years — and thereafter, as follows, viz., "the fifth year,
sixty pounds ; the sixth year, seventy pounds ; the seventh
year, eighty pounds — and so to continue at eighty pounds per
year" so long as he should remain in the pastoral office in this
town. It was also agreed to pay him one hundred pounds pre-
vious to the 1st day of July, 1722, and to furnish him with
fire-wood. Mr. Collins accepted the terms proposed, in a let-
ter bearing date, "Litchfield, Dec. 12, 1721," and immediate-
ly entered upon his labors — though he was not ordained until
the 19th of June, 1723.* In addition to his salary, as above
*Messrs. Nathaniel Smith, Eleazer Strong and Samuel Culver, were appointed a com
mittee " to provide accommodations, at the town's cost, for the Elders and Messengers
that shall be in attendance."
FIRST TOWN OFFICERS. 29
stated, Mr. Collins received in fee one-sixtieth part of all the
lands of the township, together with the use for life of another
sixtieth part.
The first meeting of the Inhabitants for the choice of Town
Officers, was held Dec. 12, 1721, and resulted as follows :
John Marsh, Toivn Clerk.
John Buel, \
Nathaniel Hosford, > Selectmen.
John Marsh, )
William Goodrich, Constable and Collector.
Benjamin Gibbs and Thomas Lee, Surveyors.
Eleazer Strong and Samuel Root, Felice Viewers.
Daniel Culver, Hayward.
Joseph Bird, Collector of Minister'' s Rate.
The only person "admitted an inhabitant" at this meeting,
was Mr. Joseph Kilbourn, from Wethersfield, who had recent-
ly purchased one-thirtieth part of the township — being the
original Rights of Messrs. Mann and Peet.
On the 6th of February, 1721-2, Messrs. Buel and Marsh
were voted " the use of the stream of Bantam River and thirty
acres of land," on condition that they would erect a Grist
Mill and keep the same in order ; and Messrs. Jacob Griswold,
William Goodrich and Benjamin Gibbs were designated to lay
out the land for their use.
On the 8th of the ensuing May, Messrs. Buel, Marsh, Smith
and Hosford, were appointed a Committee, and fully empow-
ered by the town, to negotiate a settlement of the boundary line
between Litchfield and Waterbury, with a Committee appoint-
ed by the proprietors of the latter town. At the same time,
Messrs. Buel and Marsh were directed to petition the General
Assembly, on the town's behalf, " for liberty to set up a church
and society in Litchfield."
It had been one of the conditions of the several deeds of con-
veyance to the original proprietors, that the grantees or their
sons should build a tenantable house on each home-lot, or
division, not less than sixteen feet square, and personally in-
habit the same by the last day of May, 1721, and for three
years ensuing ; and no one was permitted " to leave or dispose
30 HISTOKY OP LITCHFIELD.
of his share for five years thereafter, without the consent of the
first planters." This was a wise provision, growing out of the
dependent and exposed condition of a settlement in the wilder-
ness. Not only was each individual purchaser expected to
encourage the settlement by his personal presence and labors,
but his assistance in planning and executing the various pro-
jects designed for the promotion of the public welfare, was
deemed indispensable. His proprietorship in these " western
lands " was no sinecure, resorted to for purposes of specula-
tion. He must bear his full share of the burthens and per-
ils incident to the life of a pioneer. For divers reasons, sever-
al of the first purchasers, as has been intimated, failed to
comply with these terms. On the 8th of June, 1722, in gen-
eral Town Meeting, it was voted that the following persons
had " forfeited their Rights to Lands in Litchfield by not per-
forming what they were obliged to in the articles of the settle-
ment mentioned in the Grand Deed," viz., Timothy Seymour,
Timothy Stanley, Isaac Judsou, Jacob Gibbs, John Stoddard,
Nathaniel Smith, Paul Peck, John Hart, Philip Bump, Na-
thaniel Woodruff, Thomas Griswold, John Baldwin and one of
Ezekiel Sandford's Rights. Messrs. John Buel, Nathaniel
Smith and John Marsh, were appointed a Committee to nego-
tiate with the above-named individuals, with power to " prose-
cute the forfeiture to effect" in case the claimants should neg-
lect or refuse to agree to the terms which might be offered them.
Probably a compromise was effected with most of the delin-
quents. Some of them became active and useful men in the
town.
In October of this year, the freemen, by a formal vote, ex-
pressed their desire to be annexed to Hartford County. They
also voted that the tax for the support of the minister and for
building the meeting-house, should be laid " one half on the
Rights, and the other on heads and stock."
The second annual Town Meeting was held, December 17,
1722. The following Town Officers for the year ensuing were
chosen :
[Nathaniel Hosford, Moderator.l
John Marsh, Town Clerk.
the first meeting-house. 31
Nathaniel Hosford, )
John Stoddard, > Selectmen.
Joseph Kilbourn, )
Jacob Griswold, Constable.
Eleazer Strong, Grand Juror.
John Baldwin and Joseph Birge, Fence Viewers.
Nehemiah Allen and Thomas Lee, Listers.
Joseph Harris, Collector.
Nathan Mitchell, Leather Sealer.
At an adjourned meeting held on the 26th of December, it
was ordered that tlie ' ' town stock of powder and lead should
be procured by a rate raised upon the Rights." A tax of one
hundred and sixty pounds was laid towards building the meet-
ing-house : and a subsequent vote provided for the raising of
forty-three pounds more to be applied to the same object, and
for the maintenance of the ministry. Messrs. Kilbourn, Stod-
dard, Hosford and Marsh, were appointed a Committee " to
manage the affair of building the meeting-honse." The erec-
tion of a place of public worship appears to have been regarded
by the town as the one great work to be accomplished. The
votes in reference to it are frequent. One of them, passed
April 19, 1723, describes the dimensions and style of the edi-
fice as follows : It shall be " 45 feet in length, 25 feet hi breadth
and 20 feet between joints; to be shingled and clapboarded,
the lower floor laid, the seats and pulpit made, the walls sealed
up the girts, all the windows made and glazed ; the house well
underpined, with all needful doors ; all said work to be well
and sufficiently done, according to the discretion of the com
mittee appointed for the work ; all of which work is to be fin-
ished within the space oi three years ensuing the date hereof."*
The /oca^to?^ of the building is described as "northward of
William Goodrich's, towards Mr. Collins's house" — or about
midway between the present Mansion House corner and the
Luke Lewis house.
In the earliest records, our present North street was called
* It is not improbable that the edifice was so far completed within the time specified
as to be used for public worship ; but as late as Dec. 24, 1731, we find an appropria-
tion of £25 " iowaxdiS finishing the meeting-house," and a committee was at the same
time appointed to attend to the work. Dec. 27. it was voted " to get a cushion or
pillow for the pulpit, to be made with plush, andstufft."
32 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Town street, and was laid out twelve rods wide ; that now
called South street, was laid . out eight rods wide, and was
named Town Hill street ; Gallows Lane was twenty-eight rods
wide, and was called Middle street ; the present East and West
streets were twenty rods wide, and called Meeting House street
— the first meeting-house standing in the center ; the street
running south from the present residence of Colonel Odell's,
was then called South Griswold street, and was four rods wide ;
that running north from Dr. Eliada Osborn's, was called North
Griswold street, and was eight rods wide ; Prospect street was
called North street, and was originally twenty rods wide, but
soon reduced to seventeen.
The subject of Highways was also one of special importance,
and engrossed much of the attention of the inhabitants in their
Town Meetings. On the 26th of December, 1722, it was voted
to lay out a highway from Bantam River to the Chestnut Hill
home-lots, "in the range li^/iere the foot-path 7ioiv. is," as the
record expresses it. On the following day, it was voted " to
lay out a highway from John Marsh's home-lot [on Chestnut
Hill,] to the south bounds ; and the highway by Mr. Collins's
house, to be continued to the north bounds ; and the highway
running east, to be extended to the east bounds ; and west, or
south-west, from Thomas Pier's, according to the best skill of
the Committee ; and the highway running north from Pier's,
to be continued to the north bounds."
The proprietor of each Right was entitled, as a part of his
division of lands, to a Home Lot of fifteen acres in the '* town
plat" or village. The choice of the Home Lots was decided
by chance. The first choice fell to Nathaniel Winchell, who
selected the lot on the south corner of South-street and Gal-
lows Lane. John Marsh drew the second choice, and, singu-
larly enough to us, selected the lot at the southern extremity
of the village, bordering on Bantam River — on which the
dwelling-house of Mrs. Frederick Prescott now stands. Tim-
othy Seymour drew the third choice, and fixed the location of
his lot on the north side of West-street, where Mr. Lyman J.
Smith now lives. Numbers four, five and six, (drawn by
Messrs. John Bird, Samuel Orton and Samuel Forward,) selec-
THE HOME-LOTS. 33
tod lots on the east side of South-street, adjoining each other,
and lying immediately north of the lot of John Marsh on Ban-
tam River. The Mansion House corner was selected by Wil-
liam Goodrich, who drew number twenty ; Nathaniel Smith
drew the twenty-fifth choice, and selected the Oliver Goodwin
corner ; the thirty-third choice fell to Samuel Lewis, who se-
lected the County House corner, which he soon after transfer-
red to Joseph Kilbourn, the purchaser of his Right. For his
first " twenty acre division," Mr. Kilbourn selected the lot on
the north corner of North and Prospect streets, now occupied
in part by Dr. Richards' " Elm Park Collegiate Institute."
The north-east corner of North and East streets, together with
the lot adjoining on the north, was laid out to the Rev. Mr.
Collins ; the next lot north was for the benefit of Mr. Collins
and his successors in the ministry ; adjoining which, still fur-
ther north, was the home-lot laid out on the School Right.
The fifty-seventh (or last) choice was drawn by Ezekiel San-
ford, who chose the lot in South-street now owned and occupied
by A. C. Smith, Esq. — one of the most eligible sites in the
village.
It is probable that the work of laying out these Home Lots
was commenced in 1720, and that the first settlers, in compli-
ance with the stipulation contained in their several deeds,
erected tenements thereon. In May, 1722, Messrs. Hezekiah
Culver and Thomas Lee were appointed to complete the work ; .
but it would seem that they failed to attend to the business, for,
in the following December, Messrs. John Stoddard, John Bird
and Jacob Griswold, were appointed on a Committee for the
same purpose. More than two-thirds of the Home Lots were
located within our present borough limits ; the remainder, far-
ther west on West street and South Griswold street, and south-
east on Chestnut Hill.
Two or three incidents connected with pioneering in the era
of which we are speaking, will, form a fitting close to this
chapter.
" In May, 1722," says Mr. Morris, " Capt. Jacob Griswold
being at work alone in the field about one mile west of the
present Court House, two Indians suddenly rushed upon him
6
34 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
from tlie woods, took him, pinioned his arms, and carried him
off, They traveled in a northerly direction, and the same day
arrived in some part of the township now called Canaan, then
a wilderness. The Indians kindled a lire, and, after binding
their prisoner hand and foot, lay down to sleep. Griswold
fortunately disengaged his hands and feet, and though his arms
were tied, he seized their guns, and made his escape into the
woods. After traveling a short distance, he sat down and
waited until the dawn of day. Although his arms were still
pinioned, he carried both the guns. The savages awoke in
the morning, and, finding their prisoner gone, immediately
pursued him. They soon overtook him, and kept in sight of
him the greater part of the day, while he was making his way
homeward. When they came near, he turned and pointed one
of the pieces at them ; they then fell back. In this manner
he traveled till near sunset, when he reached an eminence in
an open field about one mile north-west of the center. He
then discharged one of his guns, which immediately summon-
ed the people to his assistance. The Indians fled, and Gris-
"wold safely returned to his family."
The following interesting narrative from " Travels in New
England and New York," by Timothy Dwight, S. T. D.,
LL. D., President of Yale College, (vol. i. pp. 113 — 118,) has
been often re-published in this country and in Europe. "With
characteristic caution, he remarks — " This story may be cir-
cumstantial/// erroneous ; in substance I believe it to be true."
" Not many years after the County of Litchfield began to be settled
by the English, a strange Indian came one day into an Inn in the
Town of Litchfield, in the dusk of the evening, and requested the host-
ess to furnish liim with some drink and supper. At the same time,
he observed, that he could pay for neither, as he had had no success
in hunting ; but promised payment as soon as he should meet with
better fortune. The hostess refused him both the drink and the sup-
per; called him a lazy, drunken, good for nothing fellow ; and told
him that she did not work so hard, herself, to throw away her earnings
upon such creatures as he was. A man who sat by, and observed
that the Indian, then turning about to leave so inhospitable a place,
showed by his countenance that he was suffering very severely from
want and weariness, directed the hostess to supply him what he wish-
ed, and engaged to pay the bill himself. She did so. When the In-
dian had finished his supper, he turned to his benefactor, thanked him,
THE CAPTIVE RESTORED. 35
and Jissured liim that he should remember his kindness, and whenever
he was able, would faithfully recompense it. For the present, he ob-
served, he could only reward him with a story ; which, if the hostess
would give him leave, he wished to tell. The hostess, whose com-
placency had been recalled by the prospect of payment, consented.
The Indian, addressing himself to his benefactor, said — "I suppose
you read the Bible." The man assented, " Well," said the Indian,
" the Bible say, God made the world ; and then he took him and look-
ed on him, and say, ' It's all very good.' Then he made light ; and
took him and looked on him, and say, ' It's all very good.' Then he
mode dry land and water, and sun and moon, and grass and trees ;
and took him and looked on him, and say, ' It's all very good.' Then
he made beasts, and birds, and fishes ; and took him and looked on
him, and say, ' It's ail very good.' Then he made man ; and took
him and looked on him, and say, 'It's all very good.' Then he made
woman; and took him and looked on him, and he no dare say one
such word." The Indian, having told his story, withdrew.
Some years after, the man who had befriended him had occasion to
go some distance into tlie wilderness, between Litchfield, then a fron-
tier settlement, and Albany, where he was taken prisoner by an In-
dian scout, and carried to Canada. When he arrived at the principal
settlement of the tribe, on the southern border of the St. Lawrence,
it was proposed by some of the captors that he should be put to death.
During the consultation, an old Indian woman demanded that he
should be given up to her ; that she might adopt him in the place of
a son whom she had lost in the war. He was accordingly given to
her, and lived through the succeeding winter in her family, experien-
cing the customary effects of savage hospitality. The following sum-
mer, as he was at work in the forest alone, an unknown Indian came
up to him, and asked him to meet him at a place which he pointed out,
on a given day. The prisoner agreed to the proposal, but not with- .
out some apprehensions that mischief was intended him. During the
interval, these apprehensions increased to such a degree as to dis-
suade him effectually from fulfilling his engagement. Soon after, the
same Indian found him at his work again, and very gravely reproved
him for not performing his promise. The man apologized, awkward-
ly enough, but in the best manner in his power. The Indian told
him that he should be satisfied, if he would meet him at the same
place on a future day, which he named. The man promised to meet
him, and fulfilled his promise. When he aiTived at the spot, he found
the Indian provided with two muskets, ammunition for them, and
knapsacks. The Indian ordered him to take one of each, and follow
him. The direction of their march was to the south. The man fol-
lowed, without the least knowledge of what he was to do or whither
he was going; but concluded that if the Indian intended him harm, he
would have dispatched him at the beginning, and that at the worst he
was as safe where he was, as he could be in any other place. Within
a short time, therefore, his fears subsided, although the Indian observ-
ed a profound and mysterious silence concerning the object of the ex-
36 THE HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
pedition. In the day time, they shot such game as came in tlieir way,
and at night kindled a fire, by which they slept. After a tedious
journey of many days, they came one morning to the top of an emi-
nence, presenting a prospect of a cultivated country, in which was a
number of houses. The Indian asked his companion whether he
knew the place. He replied eagerly that it was Litchfield. His
guide then, after reminding him that he had so many years before
relieved the wants of a famishing Indian, at an Inn in that town, sub-
joined, "I that Indian; now I pay you ; go home." Having said this,
he bade him adieu ; and the man joyfully returned to his own house."
The Rev. James Hamilton, D. D., F. L. S., of London,
England, author of " The Royal Preacher," and other works,
in a Lecture from the text, " Cast thy bread upon the waters,"
&c., gives the substance of this story, which he commences as
follows : " Dr. Dwight, an American, tells how, when the
country near Albany was newly settled, an Indian came to an
inn in Litchfield," &c. (See Royal Preacher, pp. 275-'7.)
Ignorance of our local geography, is of course excusable in a
foreigner. The incidents of the narrative certainly afford an
apt illustration of the truth of the text.
In August, 1723, (as near as can now be asrcertained,) Mr.
Joseph Harris, one of the most respectable citizens of the town,
while at work alone in the woods about a mile and a half west
of the village, was attacked by a party of Indians, shot, and
scalped. As he did not return home when expected, the
alarm was given, and search was immediately made for him,
which was continued until the darkness of the night checked
all further exertions. In the morning, his body was found
leaning against the trunk of a tree. Harris was killed near
the north end of the West Plain, a few rods south or south-
east of the present residence of Mr. Myron Osborn. He was
interred in the West Burying-Ground, where, in 1830, a mon-
ument was erected to his memory by voluntary contribution.*
These events effectually alarmed the settlers, and led to
those measures of self-defense which are detailed with some
degree of minuteness in the next chapter.
* The date of Harris's death given on his monument is 1721. Gibbs and Morris both
place the event in " August 1722." These dates are of course impossible— as he was
chosen Collector in December of the latter year.
CHAPTER III.
ALARMS AND MEASURES OF DEFENSE.
Could we go back one hundred and thirty-six years, and,
from some elevated stand-point, look down upon Litchfield as
it was in the beginning of the year 1723, what a contrast to its
present appearance would the scene present ! Here and there,
like dots on the surface of the landscape, little openings had
been made in the primeval forests by the axes of the settlers.
Forty or fifty log-cabins were scattered over the site now occu-
pied by this village and its immediate vicinit3^ A temporary
palisade stood where our Court House now stands, and four
others were erected in more remote parts of the town, for the
protection of the laborers at the clearings : all soon to give
place to stronger and more permanent structures. The howl
of the wild beast and the yell of the savage, daily and nightly
reminded the people of the dangers by which they were sur-'
rounded. The little hamlet was quite beyond the bounds of
civilization — the nearest white settlements being those at New
Milford on the south-west and at Woodbury on the south, both
some fifteen miles distant. An almost unbroken wilderness
stretched westward to the Dutch settlements on the Hudson,
and northward two hundred and fifty miles to the French villa-
ges in Canada. The Indians, still at war with the English,
prowled on the frontiers like ravenous wolves eager for their
prey. Their yells at the war-dance, an ominous sound, were
heard on the distant hills, and at midnight their signal-fires
on Mount Tom lit up the surrounding country with their bale-
ful gleam. "Without mails or newspapers, and with no regular
means of communication with their friends in the older towns,
they seemed indeed shut out from the world, and dependent
38
HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
upon their own little circle for intellectual and social enjoy-
ment. Is it to be wondered at, that some of the first proprie-
tors should have fled from scenes so uninviting and hazardous,
even at the risk of forfeiting tlie lands which they had pur-
chased ?
In the autumn of 1722, a war had broken out between the
Province of Massachusetts and the Eastern Indians, and in a
short time its direful influences were felt in Connecticut —
some of which have already been adverted to. The savages
on our borders, many of whom had previously manifested a
peaceable and conciliatory spirit, gave evidence that their pro-
fessions of friendship were not to be relied upon. In the
spring of 1723, the Committee of War, in Hartford, sent a
military corps to keep garrison at Litchfield. At this time,
there were about sixty male adults in the town, a large pro-
portion of whom had families. The following are the names
of those who are regarded as " first settlers" — or persons who
became residents of the town during the first three years of
the settlement :
Neheraiah Allen, from
Joseph Birge,
Joseph Bird,
John Bird,
Samuel Beebe,
John Baldwin,
Ezekiel Buck,
John Biiel,
Daniel Culver,
Samuel Culver,
Hezekiah Culver,
Timothy Collins,
John Catlin,
James Church,
Joseph Gillett,
Abraham Goodwin.
Joshua Gan-itt,
William Goodrich,
Jacob Griswold,
John Gay,
Benjamin Gibbs,
Jacob Gibbs,
Benjamin Hosford,
Joseph Harris, Middletown.
Such was the apprehension of danger from the Indians, dur-
ing this period, that while one portion of the men were felling
the forests, plowing, planting or reaping, others, with their
muskets in hand, were stationed in their vicinity to " keep
guard." In August of this year, (1723,) a meeting of the
Coventrj'.
Joseph Kilbom-n,
Wethersfield
Windsor.
Thomas Lee,
Lebanon.
Farmington.
John JIai-sh,
Jo?eph Mason,
Hartford.
Danbury.
Nathan Mitchell,
Stratford.
Stratford.
Samuel Orton,
Woodbury.
Wethersfield.
Edward Phelps,
Windsor.
Lebanon.
Thomas Pier,
Stratford.
11
Paul Peck, Jr.
Hartford.
II
John Peck,
"
11
John Stoddard,
Wethersfield
Guilford.
Eleazer Strong,
Lebanon.
Hartford.
Supply Strong,.
"
"
Joseph Sanford,
Stratford,
Colchester.
Lemuel Sanford,
"
Hartford.
Nathaniel Smith,
Taunton, Ms
II
John Smith,
"
Wethersfield.
Samuel Smedley,
Woodbury.
11
Thomas Treadway,
Lebanon.
Dedham, Ms.
Benjamin Webster,
Hartford.
Windsor.
Jo si ah Walker,
Woodbury.
11
Joseph Waller.
11 •'
11
Nathaniel Woodruff,
Farmington.
ERECTING GARRISONS. 39
Householders of Litchfield was held " to consider of and agree
upon some certain places to fortify or make Garrisons for the
safety and pseservation of the inhabitants of said town." At
this meeting it was resolved that four Forts or Garrisons should
be erected in different sections of the town. The names of
the persons designated to build those Forts, are here inserted,
as the list is supposed to embrace all the proprietors of the
township at that date.
" For building the West Fort — Thomas Pier, Jacob Gris-
wold, Ezekiel Buck, Nathan Mitchell Joseph Birge, Daniel
Judson, John Stoddard, Daniel Culver, Timothy Seymour,
Hezekiah Culver, Thomas Treadway, Lemuel Sanford, John
Baldwin, Samuel Beebe and Joshua Boardman.
" For the North Garrison — Thomas Lee, Lieut. John Buel,
John Buel, Joseph Kilbourn, Joseph Kilbourn, (Jr.,) Nathan-
iel Smith, William Goodrich, Eleazer Strong, Samuel Root,
Samuel Somers, Josiah Walker, Nehemiah Allen and Supply
Strong.
" For the East Garrison — Nathaniel Hosford, Benjamin
Hosford, Paul Peck, Edward Phelps, Samuel Culver, Joshua
Garrett, John Caulkins, Joseph Gillett, Joseph Mason, Ben-
jamin Webster, John Gay and Thomas Griswold.
" For the South Garrison — John Marsh, John Peck, Benja-
min Gibbs, Jacob Gibbs, Samuel Orton, John Bird, Joseph
Harris, Abraham Goodwin, Widow Allen, Joseph Bird, Joseph
Waller, Nathaniel Woodruif and Samuel Smedley."
On the 1st of April, 1721, Mr. John Marsh was chosen Agent
of the town " to represent their state to the General Assembly
concerning the settlement and continuing of their inhabitants
in times of war and danger."
In May, the subject of the Indian disturbances in this quar-
ter occupied much of tlie time and attention of the Council of
War and of the Legislature. The Indians on the western
lands were ordered to repair iriimediately to their respective
places of residence, and not to go into the woods without Eng-
lishmen in company with them, " nor to be seen, contrary to
this order, anywhere north of the road leading from Hartford
to Farmington, Waterbury, and so on to New Milford," They
40 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
were warned to submit to this order on pain of being looked
upon as enemies, and treated accordingly. Two hundred men
from Hartford, Wethersfield and Windsor, were directed to
hold themselves in readiness to march at the shortest notice ;
and sixty more from each of tlie counties of New Haven, Fair-
field and New London, with their proper officers, were called
for to supply the garrisons at Litchfield and New Milford, when
the soldiers then at those posts should be withdrawn. Friend-
ly Indians were to be employed in scouting with the English,
and X20 each were to be paid for the scalps of the " enemy
Indians." An effective scout was to be kept marching in the
woods north of Litchfield, between Simsbury, Westfield and
Sackett's Farm, [or Sharon.] The thirty-two men, sent on a
scout from Litchfield, were directed to be drawn off in ten
days. It was also
" Resolved, That orders be forthwith sent to Major Eells,
that he impress thirty. two able-bodied men, with a Lieuten-
ant, and send them to Litchfield to be improved in garrison-
ing and scouting, as may be thought most advantageous by
the said Lieutenant and the commissioned officers in Litch-
field— and to continue in said service until they shall be releas-
ed by further orders; and that Major Burr send orders to
detail nine effective men, with a Sergeant, to march to New
Milford, to be employed in scouting for the protection of the
frontier ; and a scout of six men are to be employed at Sinas-
bviry, for the discovery of the enemy in that quarter ; — and all
the aforesaid scouts are directed to take dog-s with them into
the service of scouting ; and that the scout now out from Wind-
sor, be drawn off on Tuesday next; and the scout now at
Litchfield to draw off upon the present appointed scouts arriv-
ing there."
" The summer of 1724," says Mr. Woodruff, " was a period
of excitement and alarm. The war between the English and
the French was then prevailing, and the latter used great efforts
to incite the northern Indians to attack the frontier settlements
of the whites." The Hon. Noah A. Phelps, in his History of
Simsbury, remarks — " The conduct of the Indians at the north
and west, during this year, and especially their hostile move-
MINUTES OF THE COUNCIL OF WAR. 41
me ills id (he incinUij of Litchfield^ induced the government to
take such precautionary measures as the occasion demanded,
in order to furnish protection to the weak and exposed settle-
ments. A line of scouts was established, extending from Litch-
field to Turkey Hills, curving around the most northerly and
westerly settlements in Simsbury. On tlie 14th of June, 1724,
Capt. Richard Case, of Simsbury, was directed to employ ten
men on this scouting party, to rendezvous at Litchfield. The
men employed in tliis service were Serg't. Jonathan Holcomb,
John Hill, Nathaniel Holcoml:), Joseph Mills, William Buell,
Samuel Pettibone, Joseph Wilcoxon, Benjamin Humphrey,
Nathaniel Westover and Charles Humphrey — all belonging to
Simsbury. They continued in the service till October."
Among the papers on file in the office of the Secretar}'' of
State, is the following memorandum made by Gov. Talcott :
" A brief account of the minutes of the <IIouncil of War Book, of
men sent into the service this summer, from May 24, to October 6,
1724:
" After the Assembly rose, ten men were sent to Litchfield, till
June 24.
June 25 — Four men sent to Litchfield from Hartford.
June 30 — -Major Burr sent ten men, and Major Eles ten men, to
New Milford and Litchfield.
July 27 — Six men sent from Woodbury to keep garrison at She-
paug twenty days.
July 30 — Major Burr sent fifteen men, and Major Eles fifteen men,
to New Milford, Shepaug and Litchfield.
August 18 — Fifteen men were improved in scouts under the com-
mand of Sergt Joseph Churchill,* at Litchfield and New Milford ;
have orders sent to the 5th instant of October to draw off and disband.
October, 1724 JOSEPH TALCOTT."
The Assembly, at the October Session, voted " that the gar-
risons of soldiers at New Milford, Shepaug and Litchfield, be
forthwith drawn off and disbanded ; and that Captain Joseph
Minor, of Woodbury, give notice thereof to the officers under
whose command said soldiers ^are, that they be drawn off ac-
cordingly, by sending a copy of this to said officers."
* Sergt. Joseph Churchill, of Wethersfield, presented a Memorial to the General
Assembly, in May, 1726, stating that during the preceding summer he had been em-
ployed in His Majesty's service for fifteen weeks at Litchfield, but had received no
pay for Sundays. He therefore asks pay for fifteen Sundays. [Granted by the Low-
er House ; lost in the Upper House. ]
6
42 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
By our Town Records it appears that on the 15th of Octoljcr,
1724, a Memorial to the General Assembly was agreed upon,
and ordered to be signed by John Marsh, in the name of the
town, and sent to New Haven by the hand of Mr. Timothy
Collins, to be delivered to the Court. This Memorial is not
on record, but is fortunately preseved among the files in the
Secretary's Office in Hartford. It is an impressive and inter-
esting document, and eloquently details the trials and perils
encountered by our fathers amid these now peaceful scenes.
It here appears in print for the first time :
"At a Meeting of the Inhabitants of the Town of Litchfield, Oc-
tober the 15th, 1821 —
"A Memorial of the distressed state of the Inhabitants of the Town
of Litchfield, which we humbly lay before the Honorable General
Assembly now sitting in New Haven :
May it please your Honors to hear us in a few things. Inasmuch
as there was a prospect of the war's moving into these parts the last
year, the Governor and Council — moved with paternal regards for
our safety — ordered Garrisons forthwith to be erected in this town.
In obedience thereto, laying aside all other business, we engaged in
that work, and built our fortifications without any assistance from
abroad, whereby our seed-time in some measure was lost, and conse-
quently our harvest this year small. The seat of the war in this col-
ony (in the whole course of the concluding summer,) being in this
town, notwithstanding the special care taken of us by the Honorable
Committee of War, and the great expense the colony has been at for
our security, yet the circumstances of our town remain very difficult
in several respects. The danger and cliarge of laboring abroad is so
great, that a considerable part of our improvable lands remote from
the town lie unimproved, whereby we are greatly impoverished, so
that many of our inhabitants are rendered incapable of paying their"
tfixes which have been granted for the settling and maintaining of our
ministry and building a meeting-house, (which we are yet destitute of)
whereby that great work seems to be under a fatal necessity of being
neglected.
Many of our Inhabitants are drawn off, which renders us very weak
and unable to defend ourselves from the common enemy, and the du-
ties of Watching and Warding are become very heavy.
By reason of the late war, our lauds are become of little value, so
that they who are desirous of selling, to subsist their families and de-
fray public charges which necessarily arise in a new place, are una-
ble to do it. Your humble petitioners therefore pray this Honorable
Court would be pleased to take thought of our difficult circumstances,
and spread the garment of pity over our pi'esent distress, which mo^■es
us to beg relief in several respects :
1. That our deserting proprietors, who do not pereoiially inhabit,
MEMORIALS. 43
may be ordered to settle themselves or others upon their Rights,
which will not only be an encouragement to those that tarry, aiid ren-
der our burden more tolerable, but prevent much charge to the colony.
2. That our Inhabitants may be under some wages, that they may
be capable of subsisting in the town, and not labor under the difficulty
of war and famine together.
3. That some addition be made to the price of billeting soldiers,
especially for this town, where the provision, at least a greater part
of it, hath been fetched near twenty miles for the billeting of soldiers
this year
4. That some act be made concerning Fortified Houses, that the
people may have free liberty of the use of said Houses as there is
occasion.
5. That there may be an explanation of the Act of the Governor
and Council, made the last summer, which obliges every proprietor of
a home lot to attend the military, by himself or some other person in his
room,, as the law directs, in case a person hath fiity pounds in the
public list; for many of our deserters have put off their home lots and
some of their lands, so that many of them have not a whole Right or
a home lot in this place, and so escape execution upon that act.
As to the Indians hunting in our woods, we submit to your Honors'
ordering that affair as in your wisdom you shall think best for us.
All of which we humbly recommend to the consideration of this
Honorable Assembly, and ourselves your servants desiring Ileaven's
blessing to rest upon you, and that God Almighty may be with you,
to direct in all weighty affairs which are before you, and make you
rich blessings in your day and generation, your humble petitioners
shall, as in duty bound, ever pray. JOHN MARSH,
In the name and by desire of the rest."
On this Memorial, a Committee of Conference was appoint-
ed by the two branches of the Legislature, consisting of Samuel
Eells and Matthew Allyn, Esquires, on the part of the Upper
House, and Capt. John Fitch, Capt. David Goodrich and Mr.
George Clark, on the part of the Lower House. The result
of their deliberations was embodied in the following enactment,
which passed both Houses at the October Session, 1724 :
" Upon the Memorial of the Inhabitants of the Town of Litchfield —
Be it Enacted and Ordained, by the Governor, Assistants and Dep-
uties in General Court assembled, and by authority of the same.
That whosoever hath or ought to have been an Inhabitant, and is
a Proprietor of Lands within the said Town of Litchfield, or have de
serted and left said Town since difficulties have arisen there on the
account of an Enemy, and shall neglect, for the space of one month
after the rising of this Assembly, to return to the said Town and there
abide, or send some man in their room and stead to perform and do
the necessary duties of Watching and Warding, and the like, during
44 HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
the continuance of the difficulties of the war, shall lose and forfeit all
their right and estate in and upon any and all of the Lands aforesaid,
and their estate, right and interest therein, unto the Corporation of
Connecticut. A7id Further, it is Provided, That if any other man,
being noAV a Proprietor and Inhabitant, or a Proprietor and ought to
have been an Inhabitant in said Town, shall hereafter, during the
continuance of fear and danger of the enemy, desert and leave the
said Town, or neglect to repair thither and there personally abide,
without constantly providing some other sufficient person in his room
and stead, there to perform all duties as before mentioned in the
case of those who have already deserted, shall likewise forfeit their
estates in and to all the lands in the Town aforesaid, unto this Corpora-
tion. And Further, it is Provided, That upon complaint made to the
Committee of War, at Hartford, of or against any such deserter, upon
their satisfaction of the truth thereof, the said Committee shall declare
the forfeiture ; and the said Committee are empowered to admit any
other person who shall go and abide there in the room of the deserter
and perform the necessary duties as aforesaid, and he shall hereafter
receive a grant from this Court of the estate escheated as aforesaid for
his confirmation therein.
And it is Further Ordered, That five shillings per week shall be
allowed for billeting soldiers in Litchfield for the summer last past."
On the 18th of January, 1724-"'5, a meeting of the inliabi-
ants of the town was held, on which occasion it was voted
that a Committee should be chosen " to consider of and make
application to the Council of War in behalf of the Town, for
what they judge needful for the peace and safety of the Town
in this time of trouble and danger." Eev. Timothy Collins,
Mr. Nathaniel Hosford, Lieut. John Buel, Ensign Nathaniel
Smith, Sergt. John Stoddard, Mr. Joseph Bird and Mr. John
Marsh, were appointed said Committee.
At a Town Meeting held on the 10th of May, 1725, " it was
voted and agreed, that there shall forthwith be erected one
good and substantial Mount, or place convenient for sentinels
to stand in for the better discovering of the enemy and for the
safety of said sentinels when upon their watch or ward ; that
is to say, one Mount at each of the four Forts that were first
agreed upon and are already built in said Town, which Mounts
shall be built at the Town's cost, by order and at the discretion
of such men as the Town shall appoint to oversee and carry on
the above said work. At the same Meeting, Voted, That Jo-
seph Kilbourn, shall take the care of building the Mount at the
North Fort, and Samuel Culver shall take the care of building
MEMORIAL. 45
the Mount at the East Fort, and Jacob Griswold at the West
Fort, and Joseph Bird at the South Fort."
During the Legislative Session then next ensuing, the Com-
mittee ah-eady named presented the following Memorial, viz. :
" To the Honorable Governor, Assistants and Representatives, in Gen-
eral Court convened —
The Petition of the Inhabitants of the Town of Litchfield humbly
sheweth : That whereas your Petitioners, notwithstanding ail that this
Honorable Court hath done for us, which we accept with all thank-
fulness, remain under great trouble by reason of the war, which hath
so much hindered us in our husbandy, which hindrance yet remains
upon us, and hath already greatly shortened our crops. If the war
continues, we shall scarcely be able to raise our bread-corn or support
ourselves in this place, without some relief, either by putting our In-
habitants under some pay from the Government, or by some other
way as your Honors in your wisdom shall think best for the whole of
the Inhabitants ; and that something be further done concerning our
non-residents, by reason of whose absence we are great sufferers ; and
that some act be made concerning liberty in garrison-houses ; and that
some money be granted for finishing our Garrisons, which we are
very unable to do ourselves. All wdiich your humble Petitioners
submit to your Honors' great wisdom ; and that you may be made a
rich and lasting blessing in your day and generation, your Petitioners
shall, as in duty bound, ever pray.
Dated at Litchfield the 25th day of May, A. D, 1725.
JOHN HARSH, ] p .,,
NATHANIEL HOSFORD, '-ommittee or
TIMOTHY COLLINS, V J'^^e
JOHN BUEL, I T^Tin-
JOSEPH BIRD, J Litchfield.
The Upper House appointed His Honor the Deputy Gov-
ernor and Major Wolcott a Committee on the Litchfield Me-
morial ; Major John Burr and Messrs. Seymour and Leete
were appointed a similar Committee on the part of the Lower
House. The following Resolutions, which soon after passed
both Houses, probably emanated from them :
" This Assembly, taking into consideration the difficulties of the
Town of Litchfield in this time of trouble with the Indians, and that
sundry persons claiming Rights in said Town are not resident in
the same, have therefore Resolved :
1. That each person claiming a Right or Rights in said Town, that
shall not be constantly residing in said Town, shall pay and forfeit,
towards defraying the public charges in defending the same, the sum
of" £30 per annum for each Right he claims, and so pro rata for any
time he shall be absent without allowance from Capt. Marsh, John
4G
HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Buel and Nathaniel Hosford, or any two of them ; and by the same
rule of proportion for part Rights. And if any such claimer shall
neglect payment of the said forfeiture at the time and to the Commit-
tee hereafter appointed in this Act, the said Committee are hereby
fully empowered to sell so much of the Lands in Litchfield claimed by
such non-resident person, as will answer the sum so forfeited ; and all
sales and ahenations made of such Lands by the Committee, shall be
good for the holding the same to the grantees and their heirs forever.
And this Assembly appoint Major Roger Wolcott, Capt. Nathaniel
Stanley, Esq., and Mr. Thomas Seymour, a Committee to take account
of all forfeitures that shall arise by force of this act, and upon the non-
pajment of the same, to make sale of the Lands as aforesaid.
Atid it is Further Ordered, That all such forfeitures shall be paid
to the said Committee at the State House in Hartford, on the first
Monday in June, which will be in the year 1726 ; and the said Com-
mittee are to deliver all such sum or sums as they shall receive by
force of this act, unto the Treasurer of thi^ Colony, taking his receipt
for the same — the said Committee to make their accounts with the
Assembly in October, provided nevertheless tliat the Right of Joseph
Harris is saved from any forfeiture by force of this act. And it is
further provided, that if any such claimer shall keep an able-bodied
soldier in said Litchfield, who shall attend duty as the Inhabitants do,
such claimer shall be excused for his non-residence during such time.
2. And it is Further Enacted, That all hous'es that are fortified in
said Town, shall be free for the use of the people and soldiers in the
garrison.
3. That the Inhabitants of said Town shall be allowed five shill-
ings and six pence per week for billeting soldiers.
4. That Mounts shall be built in the Forts that are already made
in said Town, at the public cost of the Colony ; and Capt. Marsh, John
Buel and Nathaniel Hosford, or any two of them, are appointed to
build the same, keeping fair accounts of their doings herein, and lay
the same befoi'e the Committee for the War, who are directed to give
orders to the Treasurer to pay what shall be justly due to them for
their services.
5. That all able-bodied young men that are dwellers in said Town
and are eighteen j'ears old and upwards, and have no right to any
Lands in said Town, and shall constantly reside therein until October
next, and do duty with the Inhabitants, shall be allowed three shillings
per week out of the Public Treasury, until October next, unless the
Committee for the AVar in Hartford shall order to the contrary for
jjart of said time.
G. That every able-bodied man that is fit for service to the accep-
tance of the commissioned officers, that hath a Right in said Town,
and shall constantly I'eside therein and do his duty according to the
command of the captain until October next, shall be allowed out of the
Treasury eighteen pence per week, unless the Committee for the War
shall order to the contrary for part of the time."
In consequence of the provision of the 4th Resolution, it was
THE INDIAN WAR CONTINUES. 47
'• Voted, Tbrit the persons appointed by the Town lo take the care
of building the Mounts at the Forts, shall proceed no farther by virtue
of their orders from the Town, that so the Mounts may be built at the
charge of the Colony."
At the same Legislative Session, Messrs. Nathaniel Wat-
son, of Windsor, and Matthew Woodruff, of Farmington, each
presented a petition for a bounty for having shot an Indian
during the preceding summer, while in the King's service at
Litchfield. The statements of Messrs. Samuel Beebe, Shubael
Griswold and Joseph Pinney, on the subject, are on file in
Hartford. The following is from Mr. Beebe :
" Samuel Beebe, of lawful age, testifieth and saith — That he heard
Matthew Woodruff say that he thought he had not struck the Indian
that he shot at, but thought he had overshot him. The next morning
Ave went out to the place w'here we had the fight, and then said Wat-
son went to the place where he stood when he shot at the Indian, and
then directed a man to the spot where the Indian stood that he shot
at, and there was the blood found very plentiful ; and those that -were
there, followed the blood to the place where we did think the said In-
dian did die, and further. The Indian that said Watson shot at, was
about six or seven rods from the place where the Indian stood that
Woodruflfshotat. SAMUEL BEEBE.
Litchfield, May the 24, 1725."
The annexed Petition is also copied from the colonial files :
" To the Honorable Joseph Talcott, Govei-nor of His Majesty's
Colony of Connecticut — Whereas, When your humble Petitioners were
impressed to come up to Litchfield to keep garrison, we were encour-
aged by our officers to come, because it was but for a little while we
should be continued here, just till the Inhabitants could get their seed
into the ground. That business being over, and our necessity to be at
home being very great, we humbly pray your Honor to dismiss or ex-
change us by the beginning of June ; whereby your Honor will great-
ly oblige your Humble Petioners. JOSEPH ROSE,
Litchfield, May 23, 1725. In behalf of the rest."
During the summer of 1725, the war with the Eastern Indians
still continued, though it does not appear that the people of
Litchfield suffered in consequence, except by being kept in a
state of suspense and anxiety. At the October session of the
Legislature, it was voted that " forasmuch as the continuance
of the unhappy war between Massachusetts and the Eastern
Indians is likely to endanger our frontiers, and the county of
Hampshire, this Assembly empowers the Governor and the
Committee of War at Hartford, to impress and send forth such
forces as they shall think needful to defend our own frontiers ;
40 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
and ill case of a threatened attack upon Hampshire county, a
force may be sent to aid them, but they are not compelled to
keep garrison there."
It is not until a year later, (October, 1726,) that the records
give indication that any immediate danger was apprehended
by the people of this town. At this date, " upon news that the
Indian enemy were coming down upon our frontiers," it was
resolved " that there be forthwith thirty effective men raised in
the towns of New Haven and Wallingford, to march to Litch-
field, to be under the direction and command of Capt. John
Marsh, of Litchfield, for the defense of said town — twenty of
whom shall be raised in New Haven, and ten in Wallingford ;
and tliat a Sergeant march with them directly from each of
said towns ; and that the Major of the county make out his
orders to tlie Captain in said town accordingly."
Twenty effective men were at the same time ordered imme-
diately to be raised in Milford, and marched to New Milford,
to be under the command of Capt. Stephen Nobles, for the de-
fense of that town.
Captains John Marsh and Stephen Nobles were directed at
once to " send forth small scouts, to call, and, in the name of
the Assembly, to command, all the friendly Indians to retire
to their respective towns or places where they belong, and not
to be seen in the woods except with Englishmen." The friend,
ly Indians were to be employed for the defense of the frontiers-
and for scouting — and were to be paid eighteen pence per day
while engaged in the latter service, and twelve pence per day
for warding and keeping garrison in towns. Five men were
directed to be sent from Woodbury for the defense of Shepaug
until the danger should be over. Captains Minor and Preston
were directed to order their Lieutenants to see to it that the
men were forthwith sent. These men were placed under
the command of Lieut. Ephraim Warner.
Though Litchfield had been nominally incorporated, " with
all the powers and privileges of the other towns in this colony,"
in 1719, she was yet without a Patent, or Town Charter. It
appears to have been regarded by the settlers as a matter of
importance as well as of etiquette, that the town should be
APPLICATION FOR A PATENT. 49
more fully recognized and protected, by letters patent under
the great colonial seal. Accordingly, in May, 1723, John
Marsh was appointed by his fellow-townsmen an Agent to apply
to the General Assembly for this purpose — who presented to
that body the following Petition :
"To the Honorable Governor, Council and Representatives, in Gen-
eral Court assembled at Haitford, May 9th, A. D. 1723. The Pe-
tition of John Marsh, Agent for the Town of Litchfield, humbly
sheweth :
That this Honorable Assembly did give and grant to the Inhabi-
tants of said town of Litchfield, all that land lying north of the town
of Waterbury, and to begin at Waterbury north-west corner, and from
thence to run in a west line to Shepaug river and to bound east on
Waterbury river, and west by said Shepaug, and to run north seven
miles and a half; as more at large by the record of said grant may
appear.
That the Lihabitants of said Litchfield, for great and valuable con-
siderations, have made a purchase of the said Lands of the to^vns of
Hartford and Windsor, who had a claim thereto by virtue of a grant
anciently made by this Assembly to them.
That the Inhabitants aforesaid have, through many fatigues, perils
and dangers, removed themselves and families thither, and undergone
the great hardships of settling a new town ; the which your Honors
will easily conceive to be attended with, since it is so remote a settle-
ment and a frontier to the government. So that if the blessing of
Heaven shall rest upon them, as it hath hitherto seemed to smile upon
the undertaking, there is a prospect that they in a short time may be-
come numerous, and succeed in some measure proportionable to the
views they first had thex'ein.
That the Inhabitants, excited by an observation made on the unhap-
py disputes that have oft arisen in towns by a long delay of settling
and ascertaining their bounds, and determining the property of the
Lands within, and being desirous in time to secure themselves from
such uncomfortable and almost undoing disputes, have procured their
lines to be run and necessary monuments to be made therein, on the
north and south of said Litchfield, the procuring whereof (our present
low circumstances considered, we being in our infancy,) must needs
be very burthensorae.
The said Inhabitants, by their Agent aforesaid, do therefore humbly
pray this Honorable Assembly to give them a more particular grant
of the said town, and confirmation thereof, by a Patent under the seal
of the Government, in due form, and your Honors' humble petitioners
shall, as in duty bound, ever pray. JOHN MARSH."
No sooner was this application known, than Woodbury sent
in a remonstrance, particularly objecting to the southern
bounds of Litchfield, as claimed by her. A Patent, however,
7
50
IIISTOKY OF LITCHFIELD.
was drawn up in due form, boaring date, May 19, 1724. For
some cause, (probably on account of the continued remon-
strances of Woodbury,) the instrument was not officially grant-
ed to the parties applying therefor, until several years subse-
quent to its date. In May, 1731, Messrs. John Bird and Ben-
jamin Hosford, " Agents for the Proprietors of the Town of
Litchfield," presented a Memorial to the Legislature, stating
that they are yet without a Patent, and praying that " the
difficulty and contention and impoverishing lawsuits, because
of an unsettled line, may be prevented by a Patent according
to our purchase and grant," as is therein expressed. The
Legislature, in response, gave directions that the proprietors of
Woodbury should be notified of the application, and warned to
appear before the Assembly, and show cause, if any they had,
why the memorial should not be granted. As nothing further
is found relating to the matter, it is presumed that the petition
was this time successful. A copy of the Patent is here given,
viz. :
"The Governor and Company of the English Colony of Connecticut
in New England, to all to whom these Presents shall come,
Greeting :
KNOW YE, That the said Governor and Company, by virtue of
the power granted unto them by our late sovereign, King Charles the
Second, of blessed memory, in and by His Majesty's Patent, under the
great seal of England, dated the twenty-third day of April, in the four-
teenth year of His Majesty's reign, and in pursuance thereof and in
General Court assembled, according to charter, did, by their act, made
May fourteenth, Anno Domini, 1719, upon the humble petition of
Lieut. John Mai'sh, of Hartford, within the said Colony, and Dea.
John Buell, of Lebanon', grant unto the said John Marsh and John
Buell, and partners, settlers, being in the whole fifty-seven in number,
liberty to settle a town westward of Farmington, in tlie county of
Hartford, at a place called Bantam, which town was to be in length
east and west, eight miles, three quarters, and twenty-eight rods, and
in breadth, seven miles and an half — to be bounded east on Mattatuck
river, west part on Shepaug river and part on the wilderness, north
by the wilderness, and south by Waterbury bounds and a west line
from Waterbury corner to the said Shepaug river. And Ordered,
that the said town should be called by the name of Litchfied, as
more fully appears by the said act. The said Governor and Company,
by virtue of the aforesaid power, and by their special act bearing even
date with these presents, for divers good causes and considerations
them hereunto moving, have given, granted, and by these presents,
for themselves, their heirs and successors, do fully, clearly and abso-
THE PATENT. 61
lately give, grant, ratify and confirni, unto the said John Marsh and
John Buell, and the rest of the said partners, settlers of said tract of
land [in their actual, full and peaceable possession and seizin being]
and to their heirs and assigns, and such as shall legally succeed and
represent them, forever, [in such proportions as they, the saitl partners
and settlers, or any of them, respectively, have right in and are law-
fully possessed of the same,] all the said tract of land now called and
known by the name of Litchfield, in the county of Hartford aforesaid,
be the same more or less, butted and bounded as followeth, viz : Be-
ginning at the north east corner, at a tree with stones about it, standing
in the crotch of Mattatuck river aforesaid, and running southerly by the
side of said river until it meets with Waterbury bounds, where is a
well known white oak tree standing about fifteen rods west of said
Mattatuck river, anciently marked with IS : IN: From thence run-
ning west twenty three degrees thirty minutes south, to two white oak
trees growing out of one root, with stones about them, ami west one
mile and a half to Waterbury north west corner bound mark ; and
from thence west five degrees thirty minutes north to Shepaug river,
where is a tree and stones about it butting upon Waterbury township ;
then beginning at the first mentioned tree by Mattatuck river and run-
ning westward into the wilderness, to. an oak tree marked and stones
laid around it ; then south to a crotch in the Shepaug river ; and thence
by the westermost branch of Shepaug river to Woodbury bounds.
And also all and singular, the lands, trees, woods, underwoods, wood-
grounds, uplands, arable lands, meadows, moors, marshes, pastures,
ponds, waters, rivers, brooks, fishings, fowlings, huntings, mines, min-
erals, quarries, and precious stones, upon and within the said land.
And all other rights, members, hereditaments, easements and com-
modities whatsoever, to the same belonging or in any wise appertaining,
so butted and bounded as is herein before particularly expressed or
mentioned, and the reversion or the reversions, remainder or remain-
ders, rights, royalties, privileges, powers or jurisdictions whatsoever,
of and in all and singular the said tract of land and premises hereby
granted, and of and in any and every part and parcel thereof. And
the rents, services and profits to the same incident, belonging or apper-
taining— To Have and to Hold all the said tract of land, and all and
singular other the premises hereby given or granted, or mentioned, or
intended to be granted, with all the privileges and appurtenances
thereof, unto the said John Marsh and John Buell, and the rest of the
partners, settlers of the same, their heirs and assigns, to their only
proper use, benefit and behoof, forever ; and to and for no other use,
intent or purpose whatsoever. And the said Governor and Company,
for themselves and their successors, have given and granted, and by
these presents do give and grant, unto the said John Marsh and John
Buell, and the rest of the partners, settlers of the tract of land herein
before granted, their heirs and assigns; the said tract of land so butted
and bounded as aforesaid, shall from time to time and at all times for-
ever hereafter, be deemed, reputed, denominated, and be an entire town
of itself, and shall be called and known by the name of Litchfield,
52 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
in the county of Hartford, and that the aforesaid partner?, settlers and
inhabitants thereof, shall and lawfully may from time to time and at
all times, forever hereafter have, use, exercise and enjoy all such rights,
powers, privileges, immunities and franchises, in and among them-
selves, as are given, granted, allowed, used, exercised and enjoyed, to,
by, and amongst the proper inhabitants of other towns in this Colony,
according to common approved custom and observance ; and that the
said tract of land and premises hereby granted as aforesaid, and ap-
purtenances, shall remain, continue and be unto the said John Marsh
and John Buell, and the rest of the partners, settlers, their heirs and
assigns, in proportion aforesaid forever, a good, peaceable, pure, per-
fect, absolute and indefeasible estate of inheritance in fee simple, to
be holden of His Majesty, his heirs and successors, as of His Majesty's
Manor of East Greenwich in the County of Kent, in the Kingdom of
England, in free and common soccage, and not in capite, nor by
Knight's service — Yielding therefor, and paying unto our Sovereign
Lord, King George, his heirs and successors forever, one fifth part of
all ore of gold and silver which, from time to time and at all times
forever hereafter, shall be there gotten, had or obtained, in lieu of all
services, duties and demands whatsoever.
In witness whereof. The said Governor and Company have
caused the Seal of the said Colony to be hereunto affixed.
Dated at Hartford, May the \^th day, Anno regni regis Decimo
Georgii Mag'ce BritCce, FrarCce, Hyhern^ce, Annogue Domini,
One Thousand Seven Hundred and Twenty-Four, Yll^.
G. SALTONSTALL, Governor.
By order of the Governor and )
Company in General Court >-
assembled. ^
Hez. Wyllis, Secretary." [seal.]
CHAPTER IV.
MISCELLANEOUS EVENTS.
The preceding Memorials tind Resolves so vividly portray
the hardships and dangers here experienced by our ancestors,
in their efforts to subdue the wilderness and render it a fitting
abode for dualized men, that any extended comments would be
quite superfluous. Indeed, little can be known of their histo-
ry during the period of which we have written, except what is
gleaned from these plaintive yet manly expositions of their cir-
cumstances and feelings. It is difficult for us — surrounded
as we are with the blessings of Peace snd Plenty — to realize
that our predecessors amid these very scenes, were thus exposed
to the combined evils of war and famine — bringing their food
through the woods a distance of twenty miles ; tilling their
fields only when protected by an armed guard; men, women
and children, from time to time flying in alarm to the garrisons
for safety ; and the whole adult male population of the town
compelled, in turn, to keep public watch and ward through a
succession of years ; at the same time, clearing off the forests,
hunting wild beasts, and fighting the common enemy ! Is it
not a matter of surprise as well as of gratitude, that during the
entire continuance of the war on our frontiers, but one inhab-
itant of Litchfield fell a victim to savage violence ?
The reader will have noted the interesting fact, that Roger
Wolcott (afterwards Governor) was, even at this early period,
actively engaged in devising measures for the protection and
defense of this town — little imagining, probably, that here his
descendants were destined to find homes so cherished, and to
act so distinguished a part, during the succeeding century.
In a preceding chapter we have seen that the territory now
embraced within the limits of this township, was covered by
54 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
the Charter granted by Charles II. of England, in 1662, to the
Governor and Company of the Colony of Connecticut ; that in
1687, the colonial government conveyed it to the towns of
Hartford and Windsor ; that in 1716, committees appointed by
these towns, purchased of the Indians all their right and inter-
est therein ; that in 1719, committees of these towns sold and
conveyed .these lands to John Marsh, John Buel, and their
associates, in fee, for what was considered a fair equivolent.
These latter gentlemen became the first individual owners of
the specific tracts which were from time to time surveyed and
laid out to them.
It would seem that for some years after the settlement of the
township, Hartford and Windsor continued to exercise a kind
of guardianship over the affairs of Litchfield. Thus, in Feb-
ruary, 1722-'3, Messrs. Hosford and Buel were appointed to
treat with the committees of these towns concerning the non-
resident proprietors of Litchfield. At a town meeting held
on the 1st of April, 1724, it was " voted that the committees
of Hartford and Windsor choose inhabitants ;" and in case
these committees should select for residents any whom the
authorities of this town should regard as " not wholesome,"
it was provided that the character of the new-comers should be
judged by indifferent men, and if by them declared to be good
inhabitants, then the cost was to be paid by Litchfield — other-
wise, the cost was to be paid by the committees referred to.
Even during the prevalence of the Indian wars, though
much of their time was necessarily engrossed in proAading for
the means of subsistence and defense, our fathers were not
unmindful of the ordinary duties pertaining to them as public-
spirited citizens. Divers matters of a miscellaneous character
came up for consideration in their town meetings, some of
which will be noted in this chapter.
The lowlands, south-west of the village — bordering upon
Bantam River, the Little Pond, and Bantam Lake — are known
on our early records as " Bantam Swamp, or the Flooded
Lands." They cover about six hundred acres ; and, having
been nearly free from timber and brush at the time of the first
settlement, they were regarded as very valuable on account of
BANTAM SWAMP. 55
the grass. In the original allotment of lands to the first pro
prietors, each Right entitled the owner to four acres of meadow
in this swamp. After all had thus received equal shares, a
subsequent division of the balance was made.
As early as April 5, 1725, Lieut. John Buel and Nathaniel
Hosford were " appointed to state the bounds of the Flooded
Lands, in order to laying out the same ; and if said Hosford
and Buel cannot agree, then Joseph Kilbourn to be the third
man to help in said work." At the same meeting, it was voted
" that the clerk record no land laid out upon the Little Plain,
until the difference concerning the same be issued." In order
to understand the purport of the last record, it should be stated
that a controversy had sprung up between Joseph Bird and
Nathaniel Hosford, on one side, and the remaining proprietors
on the other side — as to whether the " Little Plain" was a part
of Bantam Swamp and ought to be laid out as such. The dis-
pute waxed warm ; and it was at last determined to appoint
two arbitrators from out of town, who should have power to
select a third. The gentlemen agreed upon by the contending
parties, were, Capt. Joseph Hawley and Mr. Samuel Root, both
of Farmington, who made choice of Ensign Nathaniel Wads-
worth, also of Farmington, to assist them in the arbitration.
They made the following Report —
" "VVe, the subscribers, having heard the pleas of both parties, ancT
considered them with the records, concerning the land in controversy,
are of opinion and do give it as our judgment, that the land called
the Little Plain is no part of Bantam Swamp, nor ought to be laid out
in lieu thereof ; and that it is free to be laid out to make up the addi-
tion to the ten acre lots.
The charge of the arbitration is seventeen shillings ; and we order
that Lieut. Buel and John Bird pay the said charge — to Capt. Haw-
ley seven shillings, to Ensign Wadswox'th four shillings, and to Samuel
Root six shilhngs. JOSEPH HAWLEY,
NATH'L WADSWORTH.
Farmington, Feb. 25, l725-'6. SAMUEL ROOT."
At a town meeting held, Dec. 21, 1725, (Mr. John Buel,
Moderator,) Messrs. Jacob Griswold, Benjamin Webster and
John Marsh, were appointed a committee to survey Bantam
Swamp. In November, 1726, a tax of ten shillings on each
Right was laid, to be expended by a committee in " lowering
56 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
the natural ponds for the drahiing of the swamp;" and Messrs.
John Buel, James Church and Joseph Bird, were appointed
said committee. The object intended, however, appears not to
have been accomplished ; for in March, 1731, and again in
January, 1732, it was voted to make application to the Governor
and Council for the same purpose. On the 30th of April, 1733,
a vote was passed " to offer unto the Governor and Council
Capt. Joseph Minor and Capt. William Preston, of Woodbury
and Dea. Nathaniel Baldwin, of Litchfield, as a committee for
the proprietors of Bantam Swamp, in order to commissionate
them to drain said Swamp," &c. Many years afterwards, by
blasting away the rocks and erecting a dam on the outlet of
Bantam Lake, the swamp was partially drained ; but even now,
during freshets or long rains, they are frequently overflowed.
As was the case with the settlers of the New England towns
generally, the founders of Litchfield regarded the subject of
education as a matter of primary importance. As stated else-
where, one sixtieth part of the township (about seven hundred
acres,) was originally set apart for the support of schools. In
December, 1725, eight pounds were appropriated from the town
treasury " for hiring school-masters and school-dames" to in-
struct the children in reading and writing for the year next
ensuing ; and a like sum was ordered to be raised by a tax
upon the parents or guardians of the children, to be gathered
-by the town collector. Messrs. Marsh, Buel, Hosford and
Goodrich, were chosen a school committee. Two years later^
ten pounds were paid out of the jjublic treasury for the same
object, with the proviso that four pounds of this sum should be
given for the support of a writing school, and the balance " for
teaching of children by school dames" — from which we are to
infer that the female teachers did not give instruction in wri-
ting'. The first reference made by the records relative to
building' a school house, is contained in the doings of a town
meetingheld Dec. 23,1731 — (Mr. Joseph Kiibourn, Moderator)
— which is as follows : " Voted to build a school house in ye
center of ye town, on ye Meeting-House Green ; and Joseph
Kiibourn, Jr., Ebenezer Marsh and John Gay, were chosen a
committee to carry on said work." At the same time it was
SCHOOL LANDS. 57
voted to build the school house twenty feet square. The school
committee were authorized to hire a school-master and set up a
school during the succeeding fall and winter.
Messrs. Jacob Griswold and Benjamin Gibbs were appointed
in December, 1727, to run the lines and set up monuments
" between the School Lots and Fine Island."
The question as to how the School Lands should be disposed
of to the best advantage, appears to have been very difficult to
settle. On the 12th of March, 1729, it was voted to sell them
for one thousand pounds ; and Messrs. Marsh and Bird were
designated to manage the sale. Some one, doubtless, called in.
question the right of the town to make such a sale ; as, a week
later, the inhabitants, in general town meeting convened, ap-
pointed Mr. Marsh their Agent to apply to the Goioral Assem-
bly " for liberty to make sale of the school lands in witchfield.''
The application was unsuccessful ; but the people soon found
a way to evade the letter of the law. On the 29th of Novem-
ber, 1729, it was " voted that the School Right in Litchfield
should be leased out for the maintenance of a school in said
Litchfield for nine hundred and ninety-nine years ensuing.''^
Messrs. Marsh, Buel, Hosford and Bird, were appointed a com-
mittee to lease the lands accordingly. As if apprehensive that
even this lease might ultimately expire and thus give their
descendants unnecessary trouble, with a far-reaching glance
into futurity, they proceeded to bind their successors " in ye
recognisance of ten. thousand pounds lawful money, to give a
new lease of said Right at the end of said term of nine hun-
dred and ninety-nine years, if there shall be occasion'^ !
In pursuance of these votes, the committee appointed for
that purpose, on the 15th of April, 1730, leased to sundry in-
dividuals the School Right for the time designated ; the grantee
paying twenty-seven pounds annually for eight years, for the
support of the School ; and the ninth year, paying to the
selectmen four hundred and fifty pounds, to be forever kept for
the support of a School in Litchfield. To the lease was an-
nexed the following
" Postscript. — Before signing and sealing, the aboye-meii-
tioned signers and sealers agreed, that whoever occupies and
58 HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
improves all the above land or lands, or any part of them, shall
pay all rates or taxes that shall arise upon them or any part of
them, during the whole term of the lease."
In the year 1767, it was " voted to divide the money for
which the School Right was sold, between the old Society, the
South Farms Society, and the Church of England, in proportion
to the list of each part."
The subject of " seating the meeting-house," often came up
for action in town meeting, and produced not a little commo-
tion. In some of the old towns whence the Litchfield settlers
came, the following order was observed in this matter, viz. :
1. Long public service. 2. Dignity of descent. 3. Rank in
the Grand List. 4. Age. 5. Piety, &c. This order was in
good degree discarded by our early Litchfield ancestors. Va-
rious methods were tried by them, but generally without any
very satisfactory result. In December, 1735, the town appoint-
ed as a committee for this work, the following persons, viz.,
Sergt. Culver, Joseph Kilbourn, Jr., Ebenezer Marsh, John
Gay and Supply Strong. At the same time this committee
were thus instructed to act, to wit : " Every man's list for four
years past shall be added together, and every man's age be
reckoned at twenty shillings per year, to be added to his list ;
and for them that have not four lists, they shall be seated by
the last list, or according to the discretion of the committee."
The committee proceeded according to these instructions,
but the result did not suit. Their doings were ordered to be
set aside; a new committee was appointed, with no other in-
structions than to act in accordance with their best judgment
in the premises. Their action, for a wonder, was silently ac-
quiesced in on this occasion.
In December, 1726, it was ordered that the people should be
notified of the occurrence of each Town Meeting, " by a note
set up on the sign-post and on the grist-mill door, seven days
before the meeting ; and said note shall specify the time and
place and afifairs of the meeting ; and the Grand Meeting shall
be on the 2d Tuesday in December annually." At a later
date, notices of town meetings were directed to be " posted on
all the grist mill doors, and on the sehool-house door in South
Farms.*'
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS. 59.
Ill May, 1728, it was voted to petition the General Assembly
for a tax upon all the undivided land in the town not already
put in the list, of five shillings per hundred acres, each year for
the space of four years. The prayer of the petitioners was read-
ily granted, and in the following December, Messrs. Marsh and
Buel were appointed to lay the tax " according to the grant
made by the Assembly."
Our boundary lines have not unfrequently called for the
action of the town. Naugatuck river on the east, and the
Shepaug (in part) on the west, are " natural boundaries "
which could not easily be mistaken. The north and south
bounds, however, were for a long time not very clearly defined.
In the words of the Patent, the town was bounded " north by
the wilderness,''^ and south by Woodbury and Waterbury, with
no other visible bounds than marked trees and heaps of stones.
In the Patent previously granted to Woodbury, that town is
described as being " bounded north by the commons.''^ It is
fair to presume, that when the trees and stone-heaps disap-
peared, some doubts might arise as to the precise locality of
the lines described.
It appears by the public records that as early as 1727, the
accounts of Messrs. Joseph Bird, James Kilbourn and John
Bird were adjusted " for meeting the Woodbury men, in order
to perambulate." A year later, Messrs. Nathaniel Hosford
and John Bird were chosen agents " to act in the controversy
between Litchfield and Woodbury." In 1731, the gentlemen
last named were re-appointed on a committee for a like pur-
pose— or, as tiie record has it, " to enquire and make search
what light can be had concerning our line against Woodbury."
Subsequently, during the same year, it was voted in town
meeting to " take some method to settle our south-west bounds
according to our Grand Deed and Grant." At the same meet-
ing, Messrs. Hosford and Bird were chosen " to carry on said
affair, and trying to agree, and to agree, with Woodbury ; and
if they don't agree with them, to go to the General Court next,
and endeavor to get a Patent according to our Deed and
Grant." A tax of three shillings was laid on each undivided
Right, to defray the expenses. Some eleven years after, (in
60 HISTOllY OF LITCHFIELD.
May, 1742,) the records inform iis that this tax of three shill-
ings on a Right had proved insufficient for the purpose intended?
and a further tax of one shilling and six-pence on each Right
^/ie« undi\ided, was laid for the furtherance of the same object.
How the controversy with Woodbury was finally settled, does
not appear. The only alteration of any consequence, ever made
in our limits as originally defined, was in this south-west cor-
ner of the town. Litchfield, at this point, formerly ran down
some distance below the junction of the Bantam with the She-
paug, embracing the beautiful valley south of Mount Tom, then
and still known as " Davies' Hollow." Upon the incorpora.
tion of the town of Washington, in 1779, (which had previously
been a part of Ancient Woodbury,) the Litchfield line was so
altered as to run across the top of Mount Tom, thus ceding
Davies' Hollow, and the lands adjacent, to Washington.
Litchfield, in town meeting assembled, at first resolved to op-
pose this summary method of robbing her of a portion of her
original domain, and appointed the Hon. Andrew Adams an
Agent to appear before the General Assembly in her behalf.
It was subsequently voted not to oppose the project ; and, in
stead. Colonel Adams was appointed to present a Petition to
the Legislature that the town of Washington be cited to " reg-
ulate the line of the town." The line was soon after amicably
agreed upon, and has not since been a subject of contention.
In December, 1753, Capt. Stoddard and Supply Strong were
appointed a committee to " measure from the crotch of the
Shepaug river to the north-west corner of the town, with Mr.
Roger Sherman, County Surveyor."
There seems also to have been some uncertainty and dispute
respecting our northern boundary, though the matter never
assumed a serious aspect. At a town meeting in February,
1745-'6, Messrs. John Buel, Joseph Bird and Supply Strong,
were appointed a committee " to settle the line between Litch-
field and Goshen and Torrington." In May, 1754, Messrs.
Ebenezer Marsh and Benjamin Webster " were appointed
Agents to represent the town with respect to the north line,
before the General Assembly at Hartford ;" and in February,
1755, Captain Moses Stoddard and Messrs. Supply Strong and
WILD BEASTS. . 61
Jonathan Kilbourn, were appointed " to go witli the Surveyor
of the County to the North Line of Litchfield."
The colonial files contain a statement in the hand-writing of
the famous Roger Sherman, and bearing his signature, giving
a minute account of the running of the north line of Litchfield?
by him, as County Surveyor, in 1754 ; also several affidavits
on the same subject from Edward Phelps, Moses Stoddard,
Jonathan Kilbourn, Supply Strong, Ebenezer Buel, Thomas
Catlin, John Bird, and others. As the bounds, however, were
subsequently fully established in accordance with the claims
of this town, and have not been a matter of controversy for the
last eighty years, the publication of the evidence adduced can
answer no good purpose.
The boundaries of South Farms were established and defined
in 1767 ; those of Northfield in 1794 ; and those of Milton in
1795 — at the time of the organization of these parishes.
It is an interesting fact, and one not generally known, that
the town of Goshen was organized at the house of Dea. John
Buel in West-street, in this village, which stood on the site now
owned and occupied by Mr. Thomas Leverett Saltonstall. On
the 27th of September, 1738, the proprietors of Goshen (ori_
ginally called New Bantam,') met at the place designated,
and elected Dea. Buel Moderator, and Capt. Joseph Bird,
Clerk. They then adjourned to meet at the same place at 8
o'clock the next morning, when the organization of the town
was completed. Dating from this day, the centennial anniver-
sary of Goshen was celebrated on the 28th of September, 1838
— on which occasion an interesting historical discourse was de-
livered by the Rev. Grant Powers. Several of the original
proprietors of Goshen were residents of Litchfield.
Mr. Morris remarks — " Many years after the settlement of
this town, deer, bears, and wild-turkeys, were numerous.
Deer and bears were taken by hunters between the years 1760
and 1770, and turkeys at a later period. Wild-cats occasion-
ally visit us, and destroy sheep and lambs. A small tract near
the north-east part of the town, is rough and ledgy, and affords
them a refuge from hunters and their dogs. Considerable
mischief was done by them in the winter of 1811-'12."
02 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD,
Mr. Gibbs, the historian of the Administrations of ^Yashing-
ton and Adams, (vol. i. p. 9,) writing of the boyhood of the
younger Wolcott, (1765-'78,) draws the following picture of
this town as it was seventy and eighty years ago : — " At a pe-
riod much later than this, Litchfield was on the outskirts of
New England civilization, and presented a very different aspect
from its now venerable quiet. The pickets which guarded its
first dwellings were not yet decayed. The Indian yet wandered
through its broad streets, and hunters as wild as our present
borderers, chased the deer and the panther on the shores of the
lake. The manners of its inhabitants were as simple and prim-
itive as those of their fathers a century back, in the older set-
tlements on the Connecticut. Traveling was entirely on
horseback, except in winter, and but a casual intercourse was
carried on with the distant towns. Occasionally, and more
frequently as they became more interesting, tidings reached
them from Boston, and even from the old world."
There are persons yet living, who remember when bears and
wolves were hunted in " Blue Swamp," and deer and wild-
turkeys were frequently seen within two miles of the Court
House ;* when Indians, in companies of twenty or thirty, were
. accustomed to make their annual visits to this town, encamp-
ing on Pine Island or along the lake-shore — the men employ-
ing themselves in hunting and fishing, while the squaws made
and peddled baskets and brooms. Foxes, minks, muskrats,
rabbits, woodchucks and raccoons, are noio frequently trapped
within the limits of this township. Snipes, quails, partridges
and wild-ducks, frequent our woods or lakes ; while our waters
abound in trout, suckers, eels, perch, roach, and pike or pick-
erel. The pickerel, however, is not a native. In April, 1779,
the town voted, " on request of Capt. John Marsh, that he
might have the exclusive Pickerel Pishing in the Loon [or
Cranberry] Pond, for the space of twenty years, provided he
shall at his own expense procure Pickerel to breed and propa-
*Capt. Salmon Buel, (now in his 92d year,) has seen wild deer in the swamp between
his present residence and the village. Mr. Amos Benton informs we that in 1774,
(he then being a small child,) a bear passed but a few rods from him, while he was
playing by the brook near his present residence. The alarm was given, and his father
and some of the neighbors started in pursuit — but did not succeed in killing him.
THE BANTAM INDIANS. 63
gate therein, in a reasonable time." It seems, however, that
no advantage was taken of this privilege ; bnt in the winter of
1809, twenty-eight pickerel were brought from a pond in Soutli-
wick, Massachusetts, and put into Cranberry Pond. Their
progeny has greatly increased, so that they are caught in abun-
dance in the several lakes of the township. In Bantam Lake
they often grow to a large size — sometimes weighing five and
a half and even six pounds. They are familiarly termed by
our fishermen, " Bantam Shad," and find a ready market in
the village, as well as afford congenial sport to amateur anglers
from city and country. By-Laws have from time to time been
passed by the town for the protection of our " fisheries," by
probibiting the drawing of seines and nets, which have had a
good effect.
Of the Indians who inhabited this township previous to its
settlement by the whites, comparatively little can now be
gleaned. President Stiles, in his " Itinerary," tells us the
Bantam Indians were on terms of allegiance with the Scata-
cooks, the Pootatucks, and Weatogues. Mr. Cothren suppo-
ses they were but a clan of the Pootatuck or Woodbury tribe.
This seems not improbable, as the aboriginal names signed to
the purchase-deed of Litchfield, (dated at Woodbury, March
2d, 1715-16,) are all mentioned in the list of sachems, saga-
mores and principal men of that tribe. Some of them doubt-
less belonged in Bantam, and were familiar with the bounds of
the territory disposed of The fact, too, that a " reservation"
■was required for the hunting houses of the clan, favors such a
supposition. Chusquenoag and Weroamaug (or Raumaug)
whose names stand first on the deed — one as a grantor and
the other as a witness — were Sachems of the Wyantenucks,
who were the nearest neighbors of the Bantams on the west
and, (according to the same authority,) constituted another
clan of the Pootatucks.
We have seen how much trouble was occasioned to the early
settlers by the savages. It is by no means certain, however,
that the murderers of Harris or the capturers of Griswold be
longed to the Bantam clan. The Mohawks — a fierce, warlike,
roving tribe— were a terror not only to the whites but to all
64 HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
the Indian tribes of Western Connecticut. Even in times of
peace, they were accustomed to make their annual visits to the
sea-side for purposes of fisliing — subsisting, on tlieir excursions,
by pliuidering their weaker brethren along tlie route. With
the fearful cry — " We are come, we are come, to suck your
blood !" they rushed on from one hamlet or encampment to
another, spreading terror before them, and leaving little but
desolation behind tliem. When they made their appearance,
the Connecticut Indians would raise the crj'- from hill to hill
— " The Mohawks ! the Mohawks I" and fly to some place of
refuge, without attempting any defense. Sometimes they were
pursued to the very threshold of their wigwams, and slain in
the presence of their families. It is stated that in these and
other cases of sudden alarm, all the tribes on the Housatonic,
and between the Housatonic and the Naugatuck, could com-
municate with each other, from the Sound two hundred miles
northward, in a few hours, by cries and rude telegraphic signals
from a chain of " Guarding Heights" which they had estab-
lished. One of these "Heights" was Mount Tom in Litchfield.*
As the Bantam fishing-grounds were nearly in a direct line
from the Mohawk country to the Sound at Milford, (which
was long their favorite place of resort,) they would naturally
enough pass this way. On the borders of our Great Lake they
would encounter not only the native clans of the vicinity, but
others who had come hither to fish and hunt. If there were
warriors enough on the ground to make a stand against the
intruding Mohawks, a fierce and bloody conflict would ensue.
That such battles have been fought on the now quiet rural
shores of our beautiful lake, and for a mile or two northward,
is clearly indicated by the stone arrow-heads which are scattered
in such profusion in the soil. It is true, they are found in
other parts of the township, but nowhere in such abundance
as in the locality described. The writer remembers, as one
of the pastimes of his childhood, follovnng in the furrow be-
hind the plowman, on the West Plain, for the express purpose
of picking up these interesting memorials of a by-gone race —
then, of course, regarded simply as playthings. These arrow-
*Cothren's Hist, of Ancient Woodbury, p. 87.
INDIAN RELICS. 65
Leads are of various shapes and sizes, and are made of different
kinds of flint — black, white, red, and yellow ; showing them to
have been manufactured by different and probably distant
tribes. Divers qther Indian relics have, in years past, been
found in Litchfield, but, by reason of the want of some conven-
ient place of deposit, they have generally been scattered and
lost. Some of these, according to the accounts we have received,
were of curious and skillful workmanship. Since the organ-
ization of " The Litchfield County Historical and Antiquarian
Society," in 1856, quite a variety of stone hatchets, pestles
arrows, pipes, chisels and dishes, have found their way into its
cabinet. In the autumn of 1834, a piece of " aboriginal sculp-
ture" was found in this town, which is thus noticed by the
Enquirer of October 2d, of that year : — " A discovery of a sin-
gular CARVED STONE IMAGE, or BUST, representing the head, neck
and breast of a human figure, was made a few days since on
the Bantam Eiver, about forty or fifty rods above the mill-dam,
half a mile east of this village. Some boys happened to dis-
cover near the banks, the head of the figure projecting above
the ground, which so excited their curiosity that they imme-
diately dug it out and conveyed it to the mill, where it is for
the present deposited. The image, which is apparently that
of a female, is carved from a rough block of the common gran-
ite, some part of which is considerably decayed and crumbly,
yet must have required more patient and persevering labor
than generally belongs to the character of the natives ; and
though in point of skill and taste, it falls something short of
Grecian perfection, it is certainly ' pretty well for an Indian.'
For what purpose it was intended — whether as an idol for
worship, or the attempt of some fond admirer to preserve and
immortalize the lovely features of his dusky fair one, or
whether it was merely a contrivance of some long-sighted wag
of old to set us Yankees a-guessing, or even whether it is one
hundred or five hundred years old — all is unrevealed ; though
no doubt some tale is hanging thereby, if we could only find it
out. All our American antiquities have this interesting pe-
culiarity, that we know nothing of their history. We have not
even the twilight of fabulous story to relieve our curiosity.
9
66 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
The Past is hidden in deeper obscurity than the Future." This
curious relic is now preserved in the cabinet of Yale €ollege.
Presuming our historians are correct in the opinion that the*
Pootatuck Tribe was spread over the present townships of
Woodbury, Bethlem, Litchfield, New Milford and Washington,
whatever relates to them can hardly prove uninteresting to
my readers.
It has been asserted that the Pootatucks sometimes offered
human sacrifices to appease or propitiate their gods. In proof
of this, President Stiles in his "Itinerary" preserves an ac-
count of a great poivowing", which took place at a village of
this tribe, about the year 1720. Mr. De Forest gives the sub-
stance of Dr. Stiles' account, as follows : The scene was wit-
nessed by a Mrs. Bennett, then a little girl ; and after her
death, was related by one of her children to the President.
The ceremonies lasted three days, and were attended by five
or six hundred Indians, many of whom came from distant
towns, as Hartford and Farmington. While the Indians, exci-
ted by their wild rites and dark superstitions, were standing in
a dense mass, a little girl, gaily dressed and ornamented, was
led in among them by two squaws, her mother and aunt. As
she entered the crowd, the Indians set up their " high pow-
wows," howling, yelling, throwing themselves into strange
postures, and making hideous grimaces. Many white people
stood around gazing at the scene ; but such was the excited
state of the savages, that, although they feared for the child's
safety, none of them dared to interfere, or to enter the crowd.
After a while the two squaws emerged alone from the press,
stripped of all their ornaments, and walked away, shedding
tears and uttering mournful cries. The informant, deeply in-
terested in the fate of one so near her own age, ran up to the
two women, and asked them what they had done with the lit-
tle girl. They would not tell her, and only replied that they
should never see that little girl again. The other Indians also
remained silent on the subject ; but Mrs. Bennet believed, and
she said that all the English then present believed, that the In-
dians had sacrificed her, and that they did at other times offer
human sacrifices.
MR. BOARDMAN's long PRAYER. 67
The Sachem whose residence and private domains were
nearest to Litchfield, and with whom the early settlers of the
town were most intimate, was Weroamaug, or Raumaug. His
reservation in the parish of New Preston was adjacent to the
reservation of the Bantam Indians, over whom his jurisdic-
tion extended. He was a true friend of the whites, and in his
last years professed to have become a convert to Christianity.
The Rev. Daniel Boardman, who was ordained as the minister
at New Milford, in 1716, became much interested in him. In
a letter to a friend, he calls him " that distinguished sachem,
whose great abilities and eminent virtues, joined with his ex-
tensive dominion, rendered him the most potent prince of that
or any other day in this colony ; and his name ought to be
remembered by the faithful historian, as much as that of any
crowned head since his was laid in the dust." During Rau-
maug's last illness, Mr. Boardman constantly attended him-
and endeavored to confirm his mind in the vital truths of the
Christian faith. It was a sad place for the dying chieftain ;
for a majority of his people, and even his wife, were bitter op-
ponents of the white man's religion, and used all their influ-
ence against it. One day when the good pastor was standing
by the sachem's bedside, the latter asked him to pray, to which
he assented. It happened that there was a sick child in the
village, and a powow was in attendance, who had undertaken
to cure it with his superstitious rites. As soon as the clergy-
man commenced his prayer, Raumaug's wife sent for the
medicine-man and ordered him to commence his exercises at
the door of the lodge. The powow at once set up a hideous
shouting and howling, and Mr. Boardman prayed louder, so
that the sick man might hear him above the uproar. Each
raised his voice louder and louder as he went on, while the In-
dians gathered around, solicitous for the success of their pro-
phet. The powow was determined to tire out the minister —
and he, on the other hand, was quite as fully resolved not to
be put to silence in the discharge of his duty by the blind wor-
shiper of Satan. The invincible minister afterward gave it as
his belief that he prayed full three hours, before he was per-
mitted to come off conqueror. The powow having completely
68 HISTOEY OF LITCHFIELD.
exhausted himself with his efforts, gave one unearthly yell,
and then, taking to his heels, never stopped till he was cooling
himself up to his neck in the Housatonic. Raumaug died
about the year 1735 — or, some fifteen years after the first set-
tlement of Litchfield.
In consequence of the frequent alarms on account of the
Indians, the settlement of the town was greatly retarded.
Other Memorials, of a later date than those given in the chap-
ter preceding this, complain of the difficulties which the set-
tlers still encountered, and ask for legislative interference in
their behalf. Indeed, for more than thirty years after the
Garrisons were erected, they were resorted to with more or
less frequency, by individuals and families, on accoimt of ap-
prehended danger. One of these Garrisons stood near the
present residence of Mr. Holmes 0. Morse, on Chestnut Hill,
and was remembered by Mr. Elisha Mason, who died in this
village no longer ago than May 1st, 1858. Another stood one
mile west of the Court House, on the north side of West-street,
opposite the homestead of Mr. Benjamin Kilbourn. Some of
the remains of the last-mentioned fort were recently discovered.
Good penmanship and correct orthography were not univer-
sal accomplishments, even among Town Clerks, a century and
a quarter since. As a general thing, in copying from records
or files, I have not attempted to follow either the spelling or
the punctuation of the original documents. In these respects
the records are sometimes as quaint and peculiar as were the
language and manners of the people themselves in a former
age. Here is a specimen or two : " Voted that ye owners of
shoolers sent to school for time to come shal find fire wood for
ye schooU ;" " Voted to ajurn this meeting to to morah Sun
half an hour High at Night." These are by no means the
worst cases to be found. A few other town votes sCre here
correctly rendered, as curiosities in their way : Voted to ap-
point Lieut. Buel and Samuel Orton " to assist the Clerk in
perusing the town votes and to conclude what shall be trans-
cribed into the town book, and what not :" " Voted that sheep
shall be free commoners ;" " Voted that a Basin for Baptism
be procured, and that the . money be drawn out of the Town
DEATH OP JOHN BUEL AND JOHN MARSH. 69
Treasury to pay for the same ;" Voted liberty to the Rev.
Timothy Collins " to erect a Blacksmith's Shop joining to his
fence the backside of the meeting-house ;" Sergt. John Bird
was " chosen Quorister to tune the Psalm in the public wor-
ship." Many other transactions of the town, equally primitive
in their character, might be given — but these are sufficient to
indicate the great change that a century has wrought in the
nature of much of the business done at our town meetings.
It is a sad commentary on the frail tenure of human life,
that, in every new settlement, no sooner have the pioneers
erected their huts and commenced clearing up their lands, than
it becomes necessary to provide a resting-place for the dead.
The Burying Ground west of our village was set apart for that
purpose by the first settlers of the place, and for many years
was the onl/j cemetery within the limits of the township. In
this humble and now almost forsaken enclosure, rest side by
side, sometimes in undistinguished graves, legislators, judges,
mechanics, farmers, congressmen, paupers, merchants, maidens
— parents and children — the lovely, the loving, and the beloved
— pastor and people — the village patriarch and the infant of
yesterday — pioneers, statesmen, peasants, officers, soldiers,
slaves — the red warrior of the forest, and the beautiful-browed
daughter of his Saxon successor — lawyers, and juries, and cli-
ents, and criminals — awaiting in hope or fear their final sum-
mons and destiny. Sweet be their slumbers, and glorious their
awakening !
At the close of the first thirty years after the settlement of
the town commenced, a large proportion of its founders had
exchanged a life of labor and weariness for the repose of the
grave. Generally, they reached a good old age, and, by the
gradual decay of nature, passed gently and almost impercepti-
bly down the valley of years. Among these, were the two
most conspicuous and useful men among the original propri-
etors of the township — John Marsh and John Buel. A brief
outline of the history of these men, will close this chapter.
John Marsh had long been a prominent citizen of Hart-
ford before he interested himself in the Western Lands ; and
from the time when he came out to "view the new plantation,"
70 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
in May, 1715, till about the year 1738, his name was intimate-
ly associated with the history of Litchfield. I need not reca-
pitulate the many ways and times in which he was called upon
by his fellow-citizens to serve them in public employments, as
detailed on the preceding pages. He served this town in the
various offices within her gift during the entire period of his
residence here. While an inhabitant of Hartford, his na-
tive town, he was often a Representative in the Legislature, a
Justice of the Peace, an Associate Judge of the County Court,
and a member of the Council of War. He returned to Hart-
ford in his old age, and died there. His remains lie interred
in the old Burying Ground back of the Center Church. His
children remained in this town, and his descendants here and
elsewhere are very numerous.
John Buel was about fifty years of age when he became a
resident of this town, and had previously filled the office of
Deacon of the Church in Lebanon. That portion of our histo-
ry which has already been given, affords a sufficient guarantee
of the estimation in which he was held by his fellow-citizens.
He was repeatedly elected to almost every office within their
gift, besides being appointed on nearly all the most important
committees. As a Deacon in the Church, Captain of the
Militia, Selectman, Treasurer, Representative and Justice of the
Peace, he discharged his duties efficiently and faithfully. A
})rief anecdote (as given by the Rev. Mr. Powers, in his Cen-
tennial Address at Goshen,) will serve to illustrate the bevo-
lence of his character : In the winter of 1740-'41, a man came
from Cornwall to purchase some grain for himself and family,
who were in great need, and was directed to Deacon Buel.
The stranger soon called, and made known his errand. The
Deacon asked him if he had the money to pay for the grain.
He answered affirmatively. " Well," said the Deacon, "I can
show you where you can procure it." Going with the strag-
ger to the door, he pointed out a certain house to him, saying,
" There lives a man who will let you have grain for your
money. I have some to spare, but I must keep it for those
who have no money. ''^ Deacon Buel departed this life, April
6th, 1746, aged 75 years. His wife survived him twenty-two
CHARACTER OP OUR PEOPLE. 71
years. Both wore interred in the West Burying Ground.
The inscription on the tomb-stone of the latter is as follows :
"Here lies the body of Mrs. Mary, Vife of Dea. John Buel,
Esq. She died November 4, 1768, aged 90 — having had 13
Children, 101 Grand-Children, 247 Great-Grand-Children, and
49 Great-Great-Grand-Children ; total 410. Three hundred
and thirty-six survived her." The name of Buel has always
been prominent in our local history.
Litchfield was peculiarly fortunate in the character of its
early settlers. The proprietors seemed to know, instinctively,
that the location of their settlement — so remote from all the
elder towns of the colony, and apparently beyond the influen-
ces of civilization and religion — would naturally invite to its
seclusion and consequent freedom from restraint, the vicious,
the abandoned, and the fugitive from justice. Consequently,
the utmost care was taken that none but persons of good char-
acter should settle among them. Mr. Woodruff says — " If a
stranger made a purchase in the plantation, a proviso was
sometimes inserted in the deed, that the Inhabitants should
accept of the purchaser, and -that he should ' run the risk of
trouble from the Grand Committee.' " We have seen on an-
other page the vote of the town on this subject. It is with
pleasure, that a Son of Litchfield is able to say that the peo-
ple of the town have ever borne and still bear the reputation
of being distinguished for intelligence and virtue.
CHAPTER V.
EVENTS PEECEDING THE REVOLUTION.
The first French War began in 1744, and closed with the
signing of the Treaty of Aix la Chapelle, October 4, 1748.
At this period, Litchfield was in a condition too weak and ex-
posed to be expected to lend any efficient aid in snch a contest.
Indeed, it is not known that her soldiery were in any instance
called upon to march any considerable distance from her own
frontiers. Our records give no indication of any unusual ex-
citement— the seat of the war being, in this instance, so far dis-
tant, that our people seem scarcely to have been conscious
of its existence. The voters assembled in town meeting, went
through with the ordinary routine of business, and adjourned,
without intimating that the town or the colony was in any
way interested in the fierce conflict that was then being waged
between England and France.
Mr. Cothren informs us that in May, 1748, the inhabitants
of Woodbury appointed Col. William Preston an Agent to pre-
fer a Memorial to the General Assembly for the organization of
a new county to be called the County of Woodbury, to embrace
the towns of Woodbury, Waterbury, New Milford, Litchfield
and New Fairfield, and as many of the northern towns as
might choose to join them — with Woodbury for the county seat.
The result need not be told.
At the October Session of the Legislature, A. D. 1751, the
County of Litchfield was organized, and embraced seventeen
towns, viz., Litchfield, Woodbury, New Milford, New Hart-
ford, Harwinton, Barkhamsted, Colebrook, Canaan, Goshen,
Cornwall, Hartland, Kent, Norfolk, Salisbury, Sharon, Tor-
rington and Winchester. For some time much difference of
opinion prevailed as to the location of the shire town. Litch-
FIRST COUNTY OFFICERS. 73
field, Goshen, Canaan and Cornwall, nrgcd their respective
claims with much zeal ; but the most formidable contest was
between Litchfield and Goshen. The latter was supposed to
occupy the geographical center of the proposed county, and
many pei'sons had settled tlierc in expectation that the seat of
justice would be established in that town, among whom was
Oliver Wolcott, afterwards Governor. To the sore disappoint-
ment of many of the contestants, Litchfield was ultimately
named as the county seat in the act incorporating the new
county. This was a most important event in the history of the
town ; and from this time onward, for several years, it rapidly
improved in its appearance as well as in the number and char,
acter of its inhabitants. By a census taken in 1756, it was
ascertained that its population was 1366. Oliver Wolcott was
appointed first High Sheriff, and immediately thereupon took
up his residence in this village. John Catlin, of Litchfield,
was appointed County Treasurer ; Isaac Baldwin, of Litchfield
County Clerk; William Preston, of Woodbury, Chief Judge ;
Thomas Chipman, of Salisbury, Samuel Canfield, of New
Milford, John Williams, of Sharon, and Ebenezer Marsh, of
Litchfield, Associate Judges ; and Samuel Pettibone, of Go-
shen, King's Attorney.
Even after this county was thus formed, and its officers ap-
pointed, the town of Woodbury continued to manifest her
dissatisfaction in various ways and at all reasonable times.
Instead of being made the central and shire town of the new
county, she was left quite in one corner. She first petitioned
the Legislature, (in May and again in October, 1752,) to be
re-annexed to the county of Fairfield. Twenty years later,
an effort was again made to persuade the General Assembly
to organize a county to be called Woodbury. On this occasion
the town of Woodbury laid a rate of a penny and a half on the
pound, in addition to the regular tax, to be applied toward
erecting the county buildings ; and, further, she generously
offered the use of her Town Hall for a Court House ! The
reader will not need to be informed, that these as well as more
recent attempts to destroy the ancient landmarks of the Coun_
ty of Litchfield, have proved unsu'ccessfuL
10
74 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
At a town meeting, held in December, 1753, liberty was
voted to Isaac Hosford and others " to erect a house for their
convenience on Sabbath Days, east of the meeting-house.',' In
January 1759, liberty was granted to Mr. John Farnham to
*' set up a Sabbath-Day House in the highway a little north of
the School House." Capt. Edward Phelps erected a similar
house in the middle of East-street nearly opposite the present
church-edifice of the First Congregational Society ; and still
another was remembered by the late Mr. Elisha Mason, which
stood on or near the spot now occupied by the dwelling-house
of Dr. Lewis in East-street. As tliey were among the " insti-
tutions " of the Olden Time, and are quite unknown in our
day, a brief reference to their design in connection with one
of the simple customs of our ancestors, can hardly require an
apology. They were built by, and for the accommodation of?
persons residing at a distance from church — their object being,
to furnish the owners and their families, together with such
friends as they might choose to invite, with a warm retreat, in
winter, during the intermission between the forenoon and af-
ternoon services on the Sabbath. We must bear in mind that
in those days a stove, or any other means of warming a church,
had never been seriously thought of. These houses generally
consisted of two rooms, each about twelve feet square, with a
chimney between them and a fire-place in each room ; and in
such cases were erected at the expense of two or more families.
Dry fuel was kept in each room ready for kindling a fire. If
the cold was extreme, the "hired man" or one of the sons
might be sent forward in advance of the family, to get the room
well warmed before their arrival. The family, after filling the
ample saddlebags with refreshments, including a bottle of beer
or cider, took an early start for the sanctuary. Calling first
at their Sabbath-Day House, they deposited their luncheon,
and having warmed themselves, and covered up the glowing
embers, they were ready at the appointed monrent to take
their seats in the house of worship, there to shiver in the cold
during the morning service. At noon, they returned to their
rooni, with perhaps a few friends. The fire was re-kindled,
the saddlebags were brought forth, and their contents placed
THK ACADIANS. 75
upon a [)r()p1icrs table, of which all partook. The frugal repast
being ended, thanks were returned. The patriarch of the
household then drew from his pocket the notes he had taken
of the morning sermon, which were fully reviewed — all enjoy-
ing the utmost freedom in their remarks. Sometimes a well
chosen chapter, or a page from some favorite author, was read,
and the noon-service was not unfrequently closed with a prayer.
All then returned to the house of God. Before starting for
home at the close of the afternoon service, they once more
repaired to their Sabbath House, gathered up the saddlebags,
wrapped themselves thoroughly up, saw that the fire was left
safe, and in due time all were snugly seated in the sleigh,
and bound hon:ieward.
By the Treaty of Utrecht that part of the old French domin.
ion called Acadia, or Nova Scotia, was ceded to Great Britain.
In 1749, three thousand seven hundred and sixty English ad-
venturers, under the Hon. Edward Cornwallis, sailed for that
country, and settled on the coast at a place which they named
Halifax, in honor of the Earl of Halifax, one of the Lords of
Trade and Plantations. During the following year, the French
Governor of Canada sent an army of Frenchmen and Indians
to reduce Nova Scotia. The expedition was successful — and
Acadia was once more a French province. The French neu-
trals (many of whom had been driven off, or had been so per-
secuted that they were virtually compelled to leave,) now
joyfully returned to their old homes, by special invitation of
the government.
The sad story of the Acadians, or " French Neutrals," has
often been told ; but the subject is not likely to be exhausted,
while sympathy for the innocent and sorrowing has a place in
the human heart. The classic lyre of Longfellow and the
historic pen of Bancroft have alike celebrated their wrongs ;
and a mere outline of the principal events in their history,
must suffice for our present purpose. Acadia, or Nova Scotia,
was early settled by the French Catholics, who soon surround-
ed themselves by many of the comforts and conveniences of
civilized life. They erected respectable dwellings and church-
es, and cleared up and cultivated their lands. At length the
76 THE HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
English took possession of the island, and the French were
subjected to the grossest indignities by those who were bent
upon obtaining possession of their houses and lands. They
expressed their willingness to take the oath of allegiance to
England, but refused to bear arms against their beloved France.
Their oppressors now resolved to break up the settlements and
disperse the people among the other English colonies in Amer-
ica. A proclamation was accordingly issued, ordering all the
males of French descent, of ten years old and upwards, to ap-
pear at certain places designated, on the 5th of September,
1755. They obeyed the summons — little dreaming of the fate
that awaited them. On their arrival, they were forthwith de-
clared to be the king's prisoners, and were informed that their
houses, lands and live-stock were confiscated to the crown, but
that they were at liberty to take with them their money and
liousehold goods. On the 15th of the same month, one hun-
dred and sixty-one men were driven, at the point of the bayo-
net, on board the vessel which was to convey them from their
homes forever. During the autumn and early part of winter,
seven thousand of these miserably exiles were thus forced on
ship-board and scattered over the colonies, from New Hamp-
shire to Georgia. Four hundred were sent to Connecticut ;
who, at an extra session of the Legislature convened on the 21st
of January, 1756, were distributed among some fifty towns
according to their grand lists. Husbands and wives, parents
and children, brothers and sisters, were thus arbitrarily separ-
ated— their destination and destiny unknown to each other!
Precisely the number that was ultimately a;llotted to Litchfield,
I have not been able to ascertain. At least two of them are
remembered by persons now living. One of the number
(named Sybil Sharway or Shearaway) married Mr. Thomas
Harrison, a prominent citizen of this town, in 1764, and her
descendants are now among our most excellent and respected
people. The Selectmen and Civil Authority of each town
were directed to provide for the exiles, and take jDroper care
of the sick and aged ; and not to allow any one of them to
leave the town without a written order or passport. It was
further provided by the Legislature, that if any one should be
THE LAST FRENCH WAR. 77
found beyond the prescribed limits, he should thereafter be
confined and not permitted to go at large.
It is not until January, 1759, that our town records make
any allusion to these people. At this date it was " voted that
the Selectmen may provide a house or some suitable place in
the town, /or the maintenance of the French.'''' In the County
Treasurer's book, also, occurs the following entry, viz : " To
paid John Newbree for keeping William Dunlap and the French
persons., 545. Qd., which the County allowed, and R. Sherman,
Justice of the Quorum, drew an order dated April 25, 1760,
as per order on file."
What is usually termed the last French War commenced in
1755 and continued eight years. In this great contest Litch-
field was actively engaged. Indeed, the people of all the
northern English colonies were required to exert themselves to
their utmost capacity to repel the invasions of the French.
During the preceding winter. Sir Thomas Robinson, one of the
king's principal Secretaries of State, had addressed a letter to
Connecticut in his majesty's name, containing the intelligence
that troops were about to be sent from England to aid the col-
onies, and calling upon her to raise her quota of the balance
of the forces that might be deemed requisite for the contem-
plated expedition against Crown Point. The Assembly was
immediately called together ; and it was resolved to raise one
thousand men for the campaign, and the Governor was at the
same time authorized, in case of emergency, to call out five
hundred more. When the united forces of British, Provincials
and Indians, reached Albany, their place of rendezvous, they
constituted an army ofover six thousand men — under the chief
command of General William Johnson. The two Connecticut
regiments were under the immediate command of General
Phineas Lyman and Colonel Elizur Goodrich ; the Indians be-
ing under guidance of the celebrated Mohawk Chief, Hen-
drick. In this campaign, the French were defeated in an im-
portant action near Lake George, though Colonel Williams, of
one of the Massachusetts regiments, and the invincible Hen-
drick, were slain. Lieutenant-Colonel Whiting, who, by the
fall of his superior, became the chief officer in the most fatal
78 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
part of the engagement, eminently distinguished himself as a
cool, brave and judicious commander. Seven hundred of the
French were left dead on the field, and the brave Dieskau was
fatally wounded and taken prisoner. For this victory Johnson
was knighted. Before the battle was fought, however, he had
sent an earnest requisition to Governor Fitch for more troops.
In response to this call, the Legislature was convened in
August, 1755 ; and it was resolved to raise two additional
regiments, and send them forthwith into tl\e field. Samuel
Talcott and Elihu Chauncey were commissioned as Colonels
of these regiments, and Drs. Timothy Collins of Litchfield, and
Jonathan Marsh of Norwich, were appointed Physicians and
Surgeons. These regiments, consisting of seven hundred and
fifty men each, were on their march within a week after the
alarm was given. Connecticut now had in the northern army
not less than two thousand five hundred men. Though Crown
Point was not taken. Great Britain and her Colonies were
jubilant over the success of their arms.
I will not stop to detail the incidents of the disastrous cam-
paigns of 1756 and 1757. Through the inefiiciency of such
British officers of Abercrombie, Loudoun and Webb, the finest
army that had ever trodden the soil of America, was permitted
to accomplish nothing. The capture of Crown Point had been
abandoned, and an unsuccessful attack had been made upon
Louisbourg. During these years, Connecticut kept constantly
in the field a force of five thousand men. The campaign of
1758 opened with auguries of better success, under the auspi-
ces of Mr. Pitt, who had been elevated to the premiership.
Connecticut at once resolved to raise five thousand men for
the service, which was one quarter of all the troops called for
from the northern colonies. The Connecticut troops were
formed into four regiments, and Colonels Phineas Lyman,
Nathan Whiting, Eliphalet Dyer and John Read, were appointed
commanders. At the same time, Benjamin Hinman, of Wood-
bury, in this county, was commissioned as Lieutenant-Colonel
of one of these regiments. Fourteen thousand regulars, and
a considerable naval force, were sent over from England to
co-operate with the provincials. A portion of these troops,
THE FRENCH "WAR. 79
under Lord Amherst and General Wolfe, together with the
ships-of-the-line under Admiral Boscawcn, were sent against
Lotiisbourg ; while the remainder of the provincials and regu-
lars, under General Abercrombie and Lord Howe, went on an
expedition against Crown -Point and Ticonderoga. The Con-
necticut men were with both of these divisions of the army.
The garrison at Louisbourg, with its two thousand five hun-
dred regulars, six hundred militia, and vast quantity of mil-
itary stores, was surrendered into the hands of the victorious
English and provincials. Abercrombie's expedition, however,
did not prove as successful. Having been twice repulsed, with
the loss of Lord Howe, the commanding general ordered a
retreat, in spite of the remonstrances of the provincial officers,
who believed that victory was still within their reach. Colonel
Whiting's Connecticut regiment was with Abercrombie ; and
the " orderly book " which he used iu that unfortunate cam-
paign, is still in the possession of his grandson. Major Jason
Whiting, of Litchfield, and contains many interesting facts
relating to the transactions of that branch of the army with
which he was connected.
From this time till the close of the war, Connecticut con-
tinued to keep in the field not far from five thousand men.
In the campaign of 1759-'60, Crown Point and Ticonderoga
were captured by the English ; and subsequently, Montreal
and the whole of the French possessions in Canada were surren-
dered into their hands. In all the transactions of this memor-
able war, Litchfield contributed her full quota of men and
means. Unfortunately, but a single list of the soldiers raised
iu this town, duriug the period referred to, has beeu preserved.
The names of some of the Litchfield officers who received
commissious between the years 1755 aud 1763, are here
given, as it is known that a part of them were in the war, viz.,
Solomon Buel,Cap'tain, 1756 ; Ebenezer Marsh, Colonel, 1757 ;
Isaac Baldwin, Captain, do. ; Joshua Smith, Lieutenant, do, ;
Abner Baldwin, Ensign, do. ; Archibald McNeile, Captain,
1758 : Zebulon Gibbs, Ensign, do. ; Stephen Smith, Lieuten-
ant, 1760 ; Eli Catlin, Lieutenant, do. ; Isaac Moss, Lieuten*
ant, 1761 ; Josiah Smith, Lieutenant, do. ; Asa Hopkins,
80
HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Lieutenant, do. ; Gideon Harrison, Ensign, do. ; David Lan-
don. Ensign, do. ; Lynde Lord, Ensign, 1762. Zcbnlon Gibbs
(whose Narrative we give in the Appendix,) informs us that he
was in tlie northern army from 1756 to 1762. In March,
1758, he was commissioned as Ensign in Captain Hurlbut's
company, wliich was raised as a part of the force designed for
the capture of Crown Point.
The following names are copied from "A Pay-Roll for Capt.
Archibald McNeile's Company, in the Second Regiment of
Connecticut Forces, for the year 1762," — which is on file in
the Secretary's Office, Hartford :
Archibald McNeile, Cai^tain.
Isaac Moss, 1st Lieutenant,
Increase Moseley, 2d do.
Elisha Blinn, Ensign,
Thomas Catlin, Sergeant,
Nathaniel Taylor do.
Bezaleel Beebe, do.
Hezekiah Lee, do.
Arch'd McNeile, jr. do.
Roger Catlin, Corporal,
Wm. Drink water, do.
Nathan Stoddard, do.
James Lassly, do.
Daniel Barns, Drummer,
Jacob Bartholomew, do.
Charles Richards,
Samuel Warner,
Samuel Gipson,
Joseph Jones,
John Barrett,
John Barrett, jr.
"William Forster,
Francis Mazuzan,
Thomas Wedge,
Reuben Smith,
Jeremiah Osborn,
Benjamin Landon,
Isaac Osborn,
Robert Coe,
Adam Mott,
Asahel Hinman,
Roswell Fuller,
Daniel Grant,
William Emons,
Moses Stoddard,
Gideon Smith,
Jonathan Smith,
Hezekiah Leach,
Adam Hurlbut,
Jeremiah Harris,
Eli Emons,
Alexander Waugh,
Orange Stoddard,
Ezekiel Shepard,
Ozias Hurlbut,
Daniel Harris,
John Collins,
Solomon Palmer,
Jonathan Phelps,
John Cogswell,
Mark Kenney,
Aaron Thrall,
Timothy Brown,
Roswell Dart,
William Bulford,
James Manville,
SOLDIERS OF THE FRENCH WAR.
81
Benjamin Bissell,
David Nichols.
Ichabod Squire,
Comfort Jackson,
Elisha Walker,
Amos Brougton,
Nathaniel Lewis,
Levi Bonny,
Thomas Barker,
Samuel Drinkwater,
Asahel Gray,
EHakira Gibbs,
Samuel Peet,
Ephraim Smedley,
Edmund Hawes,
Silas Tucker,
Robert Bell,
Thomas Sherwood,
Ephraim Knapp,
Titus Tyler,
Thomas Williams,
Justus Seelye,
James Francier,
George Peet,
Nathaniel Barnum,
Adonijah Roice,
Elisha Ingraham,
Daniel Hurlbut,
Ebenezer Blackman,
Domini Douglas,
Amos Tolls,
Thomas Ranny,
Daniel Hamilton,
Asahel Hodge,
Daniel Wai-ner,
Titus Tolls,
John Ripner,
Caleb Nichols,
John Fryer,
Ebenezer Pickett,
It is not to be inferred that all the members of Captain
McNeile's company belonged in Litchfield. Some in the list
are recognized as residents of neighboring towns. Lieutenant
Moseley, for instance, was a Woodbury man. He became an
eminent lawyer, legislator and judge, in his native county, and
afterwards removed to Vermont, and was there elevated to
the bench of the Supreme Court.
The name of the late Colonel Beebe, of his town, will be
noticed among the Sergeants of this company. At a still earlier
date, he had been a member of Major Eogers celebrated corps
of Rangers, and was engaged in one of the forest fights when
the soldiers were dispersed by order of their commander, and
each man was directed to fight, in true Indian style, from be-
hind a tree. Beebe chanced to be stationed near Lieutenant
Gaylord, who was also from Litchfield county. He had just
spoken to Gaylord, and at the moment was looking him in the
face for a reply, when he observed a sudden break of the skin
in the forehead, and the Lieutenant instantly fell dead — a ball
from the enemy having passed through his head.
11
82 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
The long succession of colonial wars, which had now
terminated, had taxed the American people almost beyond
precedent. The whole country was yet new, and hut thinly
settled. The farms were only partially cleared up, and the
great mass of the population were poor and compelled to delve
hard for the requisite food for the subsistence of themselves
and families. Notwithstanding all this, a large proportion of
the most efficient and able-bodied men were constantly being
called off to fill the ranks of the army ; while those who remain-
ed at home must support themselves, provide food and cloth-
ing for the soldiers, and pay the enormous taxes which war
always brings in its train. If those who first enlisted, lived
to return home, they or others were soon called upon again
and again to enter the public service. This long experience
and severe discipline, however, was, unwittingly to all, pre-
paring officers, soldiers and citizens, for the severer and more
important crisis which was then approaching.
The next great question which agitated the minds of our
people, was that relating to the Stamp Act. The peace of
1763 had left Great Britain immensely in debt, and the eyes
of her financiers were at once turned towards the American
Colonies, as a field whence their future revenues might be
materially augmented. The proposed impost was at length
laid, by an act of parliament, " upon every skin, or pieae of
vellum, or parchment, or sheet or piece of paper," that should
be thenceforth used in the colonies ; and no deed, lease, bond,
policy or mortgage, was legal, unless it bore the royal stamp.
This act created great indignation on this side of the Atlantic.
The Legislature of Connecticut protested against it, and finally
agreed upon an address to parliament, which was sent to the
colonial agent in London, with instructions " firmly to insist
on the exclusive right of the colonies to tax themselves."
The people everywhere were excited, and the measure was
freely discussed and boldly denounced at the coriiers of the
streets, in popular assemblies, and in town meetings. The
more resolute and reckless of the populace formed themselves
into secret organizations called " The Sons of Liberti/" with
the design of preventing the use of the stamped paper by a
THE STAMP ACT. 83
summary process, if necessary. In this town there was probs
ably no difference of opinion on the main question at issue.
On matters of minor importance, the people did not alway,
agree. The Connecticut C7oMra«^ of February 10th, 1766, con-
tains a communication dated at Litchfield on the 1st of Febru-
ary of that year, which is as follows — " At the Desire of several
of the Towns in this County, by their Agents chosen and sent
here for that Purpose, a Meeting was called of the Free-born
Sons of Liberty, to meet at the Court-House in this Town ; and
being assembled to the Number of about forty or fifty Persons-
proceeded upon the Business for which they met. And not^
withstandhig the great Opposition they met with, from Col.
E— — r M h and one S n S e,* (whereby the Meet-
ing was much hindered,) yet they came to the Choice of five
Gentlemen, who were to act as Agents, and are to join the
Gentlemen from the other Towns in the County, who are to
meet here, at a general County Meeting, to be held on the
second Tuesday of February, 1766, at ten o'clock in the fore-
noon ; when it is expected they will come to such Resolves as
they shall think most Conducive to prevent the Thing we fear
from ever taking Place among us. The Meeting would have
been conducted with the utmost good Agreement and Dispatch,
had it not been for the Gentlemen mentioned above, who em-
ployed all their Power to render it abortive, not only by con-
suming the Time in long and needless Speeches, (wherein Mr.
M h especially discovered to all present, an inexhaustible
Fund of Knowledge, by several new-coined Words, unknown
in the English Language before,) but they also opposed by
their Votes almost every Motion that was made to forward it."
The Courant of February 24th, contains the doings of the
convention referred to. In their declarations, the purest senti-
ments of patriotism and loyalty, are blended with a love of good
order and a regard for the supremacy of the law, which are
remarkable for those times. The people of Litchfield were no
friends of mob-law, even when mobs were fashionable elsewhere.
Separation from the mother-country, was a subject which had
not then been breathed audibly, even if it had been thought of,
by the most zealous patriot. Hence, while some of these sen-
* The names are thus left blank in the Couraut.
84 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
timents, in the boldness and beauty of their expression, almost
rival some of those which were ten years subsequently embodi-
ed in the Declaration of Independence, they are still made
subservient to the condition of the people as faithful subjects
of the king. The same spirit led them in due time to throw
off the yoke of foreign despotism and to vindicate their rights
as Freemen. In the article which is here given, the original
copy is followed in capitalizing as well as in other respects :
" At a Meeting of the Inhabitants of almost all the Towns in
Litchfield County, convened l3y their Agents in Litchfield
on the Second Tuesday in February, 1766, for the Fur-
pose of giving tlie clearest Manifestation of their fixed and
most ardent Desires to preserve, as far as in them lies,
those inherent Rights and Privileges which essentially
belong to them as a Free People, and which are founded
upon the unalterable Basis of the British Constitution,
and have been confirmed by the most solemn Sanctions
— and of their readiness to promote (according to their
Ability,) the public Peace and Happiness, which have
been greatly disturbed by the most alarming Infringements
upon their Rights — the following Sentiments were unani-
mously agreed in :
" I. That they entertain the highest Regard and Veneration
for those just and virtuous Resolutions made by the Hon.
House of Representatives of this Colony in October last, ex-
pressing the Duty and faithful Allegiance which they and the
Inhabitants of this Colony owe to our rightful Sovereign, King
George the Third — and those Rights and Privileges which
essentially belong to His Majesty's Subjects in this Colony ;
and likewise those Sentiments respecting the unconstitutional
Nature of an Act of the British Parliament for granting Stamp-
Duties in the British Colonies.
" II. That they conceive, to keep up in their brightest View
the first Principles and Origins of the English Government,
and strictly to adhere to the primary Institutions of it, is the
only sure Way to preserve the same, and consequently the
Prerogative of the Crown, and the Civil Liberties of the Siib-_
ject, inviolate.
THE STAMP-ACT. 85
" III. That the}' are not able to form a more perfect Idea of
Allegiance to His Majesty, than what consists in an inflexible
Attachment to the forementioned Principles.
" TV. That, in their Opinion, for any Power whatsoever to
claim a Right to dispose of their Property without their Con-
sent, given in a Constitutional Way, is, in Effect, to claim a
Right to dispose of all their Property at Pleasure.
" Y. That for innocent Subjects to be imminently exposed
to certain Ruin, by the Execution of any penal Statute, is,
they conceive, utterly irreconcilable with every just Idea of
Freedom.
" VI. That God made Mankind free, (as being essential to
their Happiness,) and as, by His Blessing, the Advantages of
English Liberty have been handed down to them from their
most virtuous and loyal Ancestors, so they will endeavor, by
all reasonable Ways and Means within their Power, uprightly
to preserve and faithfully to transmit the same to their Pos-
terity.
" VII. That they really believe, without the least Shadow
of a Doubt, that said Act, imposing Stamp-Duties, &c., is
UNCONSTITUTIONAL, and therefore necessarily believe that the
Observance thereof is not obligatory upon them.
" VIII. That any Office for distributing Stamped Papers in
this Colony, appears odious and detestable to them, as being,
in its Operation, utterly destructive of their most valuable
Rights.
" IX. That If any Stamped Papers shall be imported into
any Part of this Colony (which they most cordially wish might
never be,) they hope the speediestpublicNoticethereof may be
given, that the same may be preserved untouched for His
Majesty.
" X. That if any Person in this Colony has represented that
the People in it might, under any possible circumstances, be-
come willing to have the aforesaid Act executed upon them,
or to have one Farthing of their Property taken from them,
except by their own Consent, given as aforesaid, they are per-
suaded that such Representation must have been the Result
86 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
of extreme stupid Ignorance, or dictated by a malignant, apos-
tate Spirit.
" XL That they will never suffer any Jealousies to arise in
their Minds, that any Person in this Colony is unfriendly to its
Civil Liberties, except upon the fullest, clearest, and most un-
deniable Evidence.
" XII. That it was never any Part of the Design of this
Meeting to endeavor to bring about the least Alteration in the
Legislative Body of this Colony.
" XIII. That whereas some very ignorant or dissolute Per-
sons may, in this time of Perplexity, be disposed to commit
Outrages against the Persons or Property of others, or to treat
wdth Disrespect and Insult the civil Authority of this Colony :
They do therefore hereby solemnly declare, that Nothing (ex-
cept a Privation of their Liberties,) could or ought to fill their
Minds with a deeper and more fixed Resentment than such
Conduct — and that they will always be ready and willing to
assist and support, to the utmost of their Ability, the public
Magistrates, in preserving, in the greatest Purity, the Peace
and good Order of the Public.
" XIV. That these their Sentiments of firm Allegiance to
His Majesty, and their strong and unfailing Desires to preserve
their Constitutional Rights and Privileges, and to promote the
public Peace, good Order, and Happiness, be published in the
Connecticut Courant, and that this Meeting be adjourned to
the third Tuesday in March next, at ten o'clock in the fore-
noon, to be held at this place."
The Stamp-Act was followed by laying a tax upon divers
other articles imported from England, which led to a combin-
ation known as " the non-importation agreement." This
agreement was, however, shamefully violated by many of the
New York merchants. The indignation of the people of Con-
necticut was in consequence fully aroused ; and it was resolved
that a General Convention of Delegates from all the towns in
the colony, should be held in New Haven, on the 13th of Sej>
tember, 1770, " to take into consideration the perilous condi-
tion of the country, to provide for tlic growth and spread of
home-manufactures, and to devise more tliorough means for
PREPAEING FOR THE REVOLUTION. 87
carrying out to the letter the non-importation agreement." A
.town meeting was held in Litchfield, on the 30th of August
— Mr. Abraham Kilbourn presiding. At this meeting, Capt.
John Osborn and Mr. Jedediah Strong were appointed Dele-
gates to the Convention referred to.
The Legislature about this time, made special enactments
providing for arming and disciplining the militia — ivhy, they
were scarcely themselves aware. Many of our most efficient
officers of the French War now received advance commissions
in the colonial regiments. These officers, by long service with
the commanders in the Standing Army of England, had learn-
ed whatever was worth knowing in their system of military
tactics, while they had failed to learn their inefficiency, pro-
crastination, and punctilious regard for etiquette. They were
"now destined to turn the knowledge, thus acquired, to good
account. Among those thus appointed, were, Oliver Wolcott,
who had commanded a company in the northern army in 1748,
and was now commissioned as Colonel ; and Ebenezer Gay,
a resident of Sharon but a native of this town, who was raised
to the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel.
In the mean time, matters of local interest and importance
were not neglected. The lands were laid out to the sev-
eral proprietors, bridges were built, and by-laws were passed.
I have suggested that the establishment of Litchfield as the
county seat, was an important event in the history of the town.
Several wealthy and prominent gentlemen from a distance,
soon after this event, settled in this village — among whom I
may mention Elisha Sheldon, Lynde Lord, and Reynold Mar-
vin, Esquires, all from Lyme, in the eastern part of the colony.
Some of the finest mansions still standing on the Hill, were
erected between 1752 and 1760, inclusive. The records give
indications of the " march of improvement " in other respects.
Liberty was granted to Joseph Pickett " to set up a Barber'' s
Shop anywhere in the Highway except on the Meeting House
Green." Lieutenant Stephen Smith, who had figured in the
" late war," and was subsequently in the service at the North,
received permission to set up a Malt House and Distillery.
The first Court House was built on the public square, a little
88 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
east of the Meeting-House ; but the town passed a vote forbid-
ding the erection of a Jail and County House on the square
— offering, however, a piece of land for that purpose in any
other part of the town which might be selected.
In December, 1740, Messrs. Samuel Culver, Joseph Bird,
Ebenezer Beebe and Moses Stoddard, were appointed " to view
and lay out a suitable Highway through the north-westerly
part of Litchfield leading to Cornwall ;" the same committee
were also directed to lay ovit a road to the east part of Goshen
— probably the highway which now connects with Goshen
East Street. The principal highways leading to New Milford,
Goshen, Woodbury and Harwinton, were all laid out previous
to 1750.
In 1752, the Rev. Timothy Collins was dismissed from the
pastoral office in this town ; and on the 4th of July 1753, Mr.
Champion was settled in his stead. In 1762, a new meeting-
house was erected on the Green, which stood sixty-seven years,
when it was superceded by the present church-edifice of the
First Society.
CHAPTER yi.
THE REVOLUTIONARY ERA.
The revolutionary spirit early began to manifest itself in
Litchfield. A series of oppressive and retaliatory measures on
the part of the British Parliament, served to test, to the fullest
extent, the patience and patriotism of the people. In conse-
quence of the destruction of the tea in the harbor of Boston,
that Town was selected as a special object of ministerial ven-
geance ; which, as a natural result, served to elicit the
sympathy and co-operation of the friends of freedom through-
out the country. The subjoined document evinces the spirit
of the voters of this town on the occasion, and needs no ex-
1*1
planation, except that Oliver Wolcott, Esq., was Moderator of
the meeting from which it emanated :
" The Inhabitants of Litchfield, in legal Town Meeting as-
sembled, on the 17th day of August, A. D. 1774, taking into
consideration the Distress to which the Poor of the Town of
Boston may likely be reduced by the operation of an Act of the
British Parliament for Blocking up their Port, and deeply
commiserating the unhappiness of a brave and loyal People,
who are thus eminently suffering in a General Cause, for vin-
dicating what every virtuous American considers an essential
Hight of this Country, think it is their indispensable Duty to
afford their unhappy distressed brethren of said Town of Bos-
ton, all reasonable Aid and Support. And this they are the
more readily induced to do, not only as the Inhabitants of
said Town are thus severely condemned for their reluctance to
submit to an arbitrary, an unconsented to, and consequent-
ly unconstitutional Taxation, but the whole of the great and
loyal Province of the Massachusetts Bay have been condemned
12
90 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
unheard^ in the loss of their Charter Privileges, by the hereto-
fore unknown and unheard of exertions of Parliamentary
Power, which they conceive is a Power claimed and exercised
in such a manner as cannot fail of striking every unprejudiced
mind with Horror and Amazement, as being subversive of all
those inherent, essential and constitutional Rights and Privi-
leges which the good people of this Colony have ever held sa-
cred, and even dearer than Life itself, nor ever can wish to
survive ; not only every idea of Property, but every emolument
of civil life, being thereby rendered precarious and uncertain.
" In full confidence, therefore, that no Degree of Evil thus
inflicted on said Town and Province, will ever induce them to
give up or betray their own and the American Constitutional
Rights and Privileges, especially as they cannot but entertain
the most pleasing Expectations that the Committees of the
several North American Provinces, who are soon to meet at
Philadelphia, will in their wisdom be able to point out a Meth-
od of Conduct effectual for obtaining Redress of their grievan-
ces— a Method to which (when once agreed upon by said Com-
mittee) this Town will look upon it their duty strictly to attend.
And in the mean time, earnestly recommend that subscriptions
he forthwith opened in this Toivn, under the care of Reuben
Smith, Esq., Capt. Lynde Lord, and Mr. William Stanton, who
are hereby appointed a Committee to receive and forward to
the Selectmen of Boston, for the use of the Poor in that place,
all such Donations as shall be thereupon made for that pur-
pose ; and also to correspond with the Committee of Corres-
pondence there or elsewhere, as there may be occasion.
" "We also take this opportunity publicly to return our thanks
to the members of the Honorable House of Representatives of
this Colony, for their patriotic and loyal Resolutions, passed
and published in the last Assembly on the occasion, and order
them to be entered at large on the Public Records of this Town,
that succeeding ages may be faithfully furnished with authen-
tic Credentials of our inflexible attachment to those inestima-
ble Privileges which we and every honest American glory in
esteeming our unalienable Birthright and Liheritance."
COMMITTEES OP INSPECTION. 91
At the annual Town Meeting, held December 6, 1774, it was
Voted, That the Honorable Oliver Wolcott, Esq., and Messrs.
Jedediah Strong, Jacob Woodruff, John Marsh, John Osborn,
Jehiel Parmelee, Abraham Bradley, Seth Bird, Archibald Mc-
Neile, Abraham Kilbourn, Nathan Garnsey, James Morris and
Ebenezel- Benton, be a Committee for the Purposes mentioned
in the Eleventh Article of the Association Agreement of the
Grand Continental Congress in Philadelphia, 5th of September
last, and approved, adopted and recommended by the General
Assembly of tliis Colony at their session in October last."
The " Eleventh Article of the Association Agreement," here
referred to, provides for the appointment of " Committees of
Inspection" in each city and town, " whose business it shall be
attentively to observe the conduct of all persons touching this
Association ; and when it shall be made to appear that any
person has violated its articles, they are to cause their names
to be published in the Gazette, to the end that all such foes to
the Rights of British America may be publicly known and
universally contemned as the enemies of American Liberty,
and thenceforth we break off all dealings with him or her."
Committees of Inspection were also appointed at the annual
Town Meeting in 1775 and 1776. In addition to the above,
the following persons were appointed, viz., Messrs. Reuben
Smith, Lynde Lord, Andrew Adams, Archibald McNeile, Jr.,
Moses Sanford, Tapping Reeve, Jonathan Mason, Caleb Gibbs,
Nathaniel Woodruff, William Stanton and Nathaniel Goodwin.
The celebrated Aaron Burr, (afterwards Yice President of
the United States,) became intimately associated with Litch-
field during this period. He graduated at Princeton College
in October, 1772, and in the following June, his only sister,
Sarah Burr, became the wife of Tapping Reeve, Esq., of this
town. " In May, 1774," says his biographer, (Davis i, 46,)
"he left the Rev. Mr. Bellamy's, and went to the house of his
brother-in-law. Tapping Reeve, where his time was occupied
in reading, principally history, but especially those portions of
it which related to wars, battles and seiges, which tended to
inflame his natural military ardor. The absorbing topics of
taxation and the rights of the people were agitating the then
92 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
British Colonies from one extreme to the other. These sub-
jects, therefore, could not pass unnoticed by a youth of the
the enquiring mind and ardent feelings of Burr. Constitu-
tional law, and the relative rights of the crown and the colo-
nists, were examined with all the accumen which he possessed,
and he became a whig from reflection and conviction, as well
as from feeling." Burr remained in Litchfield on this occa-
sion something over a year. The letters written by him while
here, contain frequent allusions to local matters, and to indi-
viduals (especially the young ladies) residing in the place. In
a communication to Matthias Ogden (dated at Litchfield, Au-
gust 17, 1774,) he says — "Before I proceed further, let me
tell you that, a few days ago, a mob of several hundred per-
sons gathered at Barrington, and tore down the house of a man
who was suspected of being unfriendly to the liberties of the
people ; broke up the court then sitting at that place, &c. As
many of the rioters belonged to this colony, and the Supreme
Court was then sitting at this place, the Sheriff was immedi-
ately despatched to apprehend the ring-leaders. He returned
yesterday with eight prisoners, who were taken without resis-
tance. But this minute, there are entering the town on horse-
back, with great regularity, about fifty men, armed each with
a wliite club; and I observe others continually dropping in.
I shall here leave a blank, to give you (perhaps in heroics,) a
few sketches of my unexampled valor, should they proceed to
hostilities ; and, should they not, I can tell you what I would
have done." After the " blank," the young hero adds — ;" The
above-mentioned sneaks all gave bonds for their appearance,
to stand a trial at the next court, for committing a riot."
While Burr remained at the house of Judge Reeve, he was
startled by the news of the Battle of Lexington, which took
place on the 19th of April, 1775. Immediately thereafter, he
addressed a letter to his friend Ogden, urging him to come to
Litchfield and make arrangements with him for joining the
standard of their country. The Battle of Bunker Hill soon
followed — (June 16th.) As Ogden could not come at once to
Litchfield, Burr started for Elizabethtown, New Jersey, to
assist his friend in arranging for a speedy trip to Cambridge,
AARON BURR. 93
where the American army was then encamped. In July, they
reached Cambridge ; and in September, Burr enlisted as a pri-
vate soldier in Arnold's expedition through the wilderness to
Quebec. It maybe added, that Litchfield was Colonel Burr's
recognized home for some half dozen years,*
On the morning of the 10th of May, 1775, Colonel Ethan
Allen, a native of Litchfield, at the head of his brave Green
Mountain Boys, surprized and captured the Fortress of Ticon-
deroga. Several of this little band of heroes were born and
bred in this vicinity. Lieutenant Crampton, who entered the
fort by the side of Allen, was also a native of this town, and
had resided here during a large part of his life. On this occa-
sion was captured the first British flag that fell into the hands
of the Americans in the revolutionary contest! The magni-
tude and importance of this exploit will be better understood,
when considered in connection with the vast amount of time,
and treasure, and blood, which the fortress had cost the Brit-
ish Goverjiment. The day following the capture of Ticonder-
oga, the garrison at Crown Point, with all its military stores,
were surrendered to Colonel Warner, a native of Roxbury,
in this County.
* On the 27th of January, 1776, Judge Reeve wrote to Burr thus — " Amid the la-
mentations for the loss of a brave, enterprising General, [Montgomery,] your escape
from such imminent danger, to which you have been exposed, has afforded us the
greatest satisfaction. The news of the unfortunate attack upon Quebec arrived
among us on the 13th of this month. I concealed it from your sister until the 18th,
when she found it out ; but, in less than half an hour, I received letters from Albany
acquainting me that you were in safety, and had gained great honor by your intrepid
conduct. * * It was happy for us that we did not know you were an aid-de-camp
until we heard of your welfare ; for we heard that Montgomery and his aids were
killed, without knowing who his aids were. Your sister enjoys a middling state of
health. She has many anxious hours on your account ; but she tells me that, as she
believes you may serve the country in the business in which you are now employed,
she is contented that you should remain in the army. It must be an exalted public
spirit, that could produce such an effect upon a sister as affectionate as yours."
For several months in 1781, Mrs. Theodocia Provost (the dashing young widow of
Colonel Provost, of the British Army,) was a resident of Litchfield ; and a few of
her letters written from this place are preserved in Davis's Life of Burr, vol. i, pp.
224—227. She became the wife of Burr, July 2, 1782.
Aaron Burr became aid de-camp to General Washington, Attorney General of the
State of New York, U. S. Senator, and, in 1801, was a candidate with Jefferson for the
Presidency of the United States — the two receiving an equal number of electoral votes.
After an exciting contest of several days in the U. S. House of Representatives, Jef
ferson was chosen President, and Burr Vice President.
94 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
In January, 1776, Captain Bezaleel Beebe, of Litchfield,
received orders to enlist a company for the defense of New
York. The tidings spread rapidly throughout the town, and
awakened anew the enthusiasm of the whigs. A veteran who
died within the last few years, stated that when the intelli-
gence reached him, he started on a run for the Captain's head-
quarters, fearing the roll would be full before he could reach
there. Captain Beebe's orders reached him on a Sunday, and
by the following Saturday, the company had been raised, arm-
ed, and equipped, and were on their march toward Fairfield.
The following paper, with the names attached, is inserted here
for preservation :
" We, the Subscribers, being convinced of the Necessity of a body
of Forces to defeat certain Wicked Purposes formed by the instru-
ments of Ministerial Tyranny, do solemnly engage ourselves and enlist
as Private Soldiers, in a Regiment to be Commanded by Colonel An-
drew Ward, Jr., under the command of Major General Lee, for
the Term of Eight Weeks at the utmost from the Day we March
from Fairfield, which is the place of Rendezvous ; the Honorable
Major General Lee having given his Word and Honor that we shall
not be Detained a single Day after said Term. Dated at Litchfield,
21st day of January, 1776."
Lieut. Jonathan Mason, Sergt. Benjamin Bissell,-
Briant Stoddard, Elihu Harrison,
James Woodruff, Roger N. Whittlesey,
Oliver Woodruff, Charles Woodruff, Jr.,
Phineas Goodwin, Joseph Sanford,
Zebulon Bissell, Stephen Brown,
Benjamin Taylor, William Patterson,
Moses Taylor, John Lyman,
Frederick Stanley, Obed Stoddard,
James Crampton, T. Weed,
Caleb Munson, George Dear,
Abraham Wadhams, Jacob Gaylord,
Martin Nash, Elihu Grant,
Oliver Griswold, Abram Beach,
Zadock Gibbs, Jr. Ichabod Tuttle,
Josiah Bartholomew, Jr. Chauncey Beach,
Jesse Stanley, ' George Dear, Jr.
Elisha Mayo, Adino Hale,
Nathaniel Newell, Allen Lucas,
REVOLUTIONARY SOLDIERS. 95
Luman Bishop, William Starr,
Asaph Benham, Heber Gilbert, Jr.
Joseph Finney, Zebulon Palmer,
Zebedee Sturtevant, Joseph Peters,
Martin Curtiss, Truman Gilbert,
Levi Swan. Heman Brown, .
Joel Barnes, Luther Comstock,
Peleg Holmes, Daniel Swan.
Alexander Sackett,
Those who have a knowledge of the leading men of Litch_
field county from forty to seventy years ago, will recognize in
the above list the names of many of her most prominent and
influential citizens — men of wealth and enterprize, who,
though surround'ed by the endearments of domestic life, vol-
untarily enlisted a^ private soldiers in that dangers expedition.
The roll as here given is not complete. About two-thirds of
the persons named in the list belonged to this town ; the re-
mainder were from Goshen, Torrington and Warren. They
were all enlisted from the 21st to the 25th of January, 1776.
The names of a few additional members of this company may
be gleaned from the following Appraisal :
" Litchfield, 26th January, 1776.
" We, being requested to apprise the Arms belonging to Capt. Bez-
aleel Beebe's Company, in Col. Andrew Ward's Regiment, going on
an expedition to New York under the command of General Charles
Lee — we accordingly apprized the same, being first duly sworn, viz.,
Elihu Harrison's Gun, .Bayonet and Cartridge Box, in his own
hands. \_Figures omitted.']
Roger N. Whittlesey's Gun in the hands of Briant Stoddard.
Joseph Sanford's Gun, Bayonet and Belt in his own hands.
Nathaniel Allen's Gun, Bayonet and Belt in his own hands.
Obed Stoddard's Gun, Bayonet, Cartridge box and belt.
Joshua Smith's Gun in his own hands.
Zebulon Bissell's Gun in his own hands.
James Woodruff's Gun carried by Stephen Brown.
Phineas Goodwin's Gun, bayonet and belt.
Whiting Stanley's Gun carried by James Crampton.
Oliver VV^oodrufF's Gvm carried by himself.
Hezekiah Agard's Gun carried by John Lyman.
Jedediah Strong's Gun, bayonet and belt carried by Wm Patterson.
Lieut. Jonathan Mason's Cartridge box.
Samuel Canfield's Gun carried by himself.
Noah Garnsey's Gun carried by T. Weed.
96
HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Sergt. Benjamin Bissell's Gun and Bayonet carried by himself.
Asa Osborn's Gun and Cartridge box carried by himself.
Jedediah Strong's Gun carried by Benjamin Taylor.
Jedediah Strong's Gun carried by Frederick Stanley.
Reuben Smith, Esq's, Gun, Bayonet, Case and Belt, carried by
Capt. Beebe.
Capt Jolia Osborn's Gun carried by Moses Taylor.
Abraham Bradley, ) .
ni ri ( Appraisers on
iHOMAs Catlin, >- /-) ^i
Obed Stodder, )
111 May, 1776, a regiment was ordered to be raised for the
defense of the State, " to be subject to join the continental
army, if so ordered by the Governor." Captain Beebe was
appointed to the command of one of the companies of this
regiment, with Jesse Cook for 1st lieutenant, and James Wat-
son for 2d lieutenant. Lieut. Watson was soon transferred to
another corps, and John Smith, of Litchfield, was commission-
ed in his place. The following is a complete list of the officers
and soldiers of this company :
Bezaleel Beebe, Captain,
James Beach,
Jesse Cook, Lieutenant,
Asa Brooks,
John Smith, do.
Daniel Benedict,
Wait Beach, Ensign,
Samuel Baldwin,
Levi Peck, Sergeant,
Elisha Brownson,
Cotton Mather, do.
Benjamin Bissell,
Heber Stone, do.
Daniel Barns,
Solomon Goodwin, do.
Ebenezer Bacon,
Samuel Cole, Corporal,
Noah Beach,
Ezekiel Bissell, do.
Elisha Bissell,
Elijah Loomis, do.
Frederick Bigelow,
David Hall, do.
Hezekiah Bissell,
Joel Taylor, Drummer,
James Davis,
Epaphras Wadsworth, Fifer,
Friend Dickinson,
Nathaniel Allen,
Jesse Dickinson,
Cyrenius Austin,
Solomon Dickinson,
Enos Austin,
Ebenezer Dimon,
Joseph Austin,
Gershom Fay,
Andrew Austin,
Remembrance Filley,
Elihu Beach,
Joel Frost,
Barnias Beach,
John German,
Zebulon Bissell,
Phineas Goodwin,
REVOLUTIONARY SOLDIERS.
97
Beriah Birge,
James Birge,
Noacliuh Bancroft,
Ithamar Gibbs,
Moore Gibbs,
Samuel Gleason,
Isaac Hosford,
Abraham Haskins,
Amos Johnson,
Charles Kilbourn,
Henry Hclntire,
Thomas Mason,
Oliver Marshall,
Timothy Marsh,
Alexander McNiel,
Ebenezer Landon,
Remembrance Loomis,
James Little,
John Lyman,
Noah North,
David Olmsted,
Ethan Osborn,
John Parmeley,
Joseph Goodwin,
Benjamin Gibbs,
Gershom Gibbs,
Henry Plumb,
Eliphaz Parsons,
Joseph Sanford,
Frederick Stanley,
Timothy Stanley,
Jared Stewart,
Joseph Spencer,
Daniel Smith,
Aai'on Stoddard,
Ira Stone,
John Strong,
Peleg Sweet,
Stephen Taylor,
Joseph Taylor,
Samuel Vaill,
Jeremiah Weed,
John Weed,
Gideon Wilcoxson,
John Whiting,
Oliver Woodruff,
Solomon Parmeley,
These names are copied from tlie account-book and billet-
roll preserved among the papers of Col. Beebe. From various
accounts and memoranda found in these papers, we are able
to gather certain facts in the history of some of these soldiers.
Thus — " August 9, To cash paid for coffin for Ira Stone ;"
Sept. 7, " Lieut. John Smith was discharged from the army
in New York ;" " John German was dismissed from my com-
pany by order of a General Court Martial, July 9, 1776 ;"
" Aug. 9, James Beach died about 8 o'clock in the morning ;"
" Sept. the 5th, 10 o'clock at night, Samuel Gleason died ;"
in the account with Joel Taylor— "Paid one dollar to Zebulon
Taylor to deliver to the mother of the above Joel Taylor, de-
ceased^ it being cash that was with him when he died ;" " Sept.
27, 1777, Received of Capt. Beebe 22 shillings for mileage
from Philadelphia to Litchfield. (Signed,) Abraham Haskins."
13
93 HISrORY OF LITCHFIELD.
From the account of Gersliom Gibbs — " Received of Capt.
Beebe three doUars that belonged to my husband and son, whicli
was part of the money sent to them whilst prisoners in New
York. (Signed,) Tabitha Gibbs." From the account with
Nathaniel Allen—" Sept 27, 1777, To cash left with Joseph
Agard to be paid to 31rs. Allen, that was left with me when
Mr. Allen died."" From the account with Phineas Goodwin —
" To back rations 16 days at Fort Washington," &c. The
fate of some of these individuals, together with that of many
others belonging to this company, will be more fully explained
in the narrative which follows.
About the 1st of November, 1776, thirty-six picked men, (all
of whose names are given in the preceding roll,) were placed
under the command of Capt. Beebe and sent to Fort Washing-
ton to aid in its defense. This post, together with Fort Lee
on the Jersey shore, commanded the mouth of the Hudson,
and was hence regarded by the enemy as a tempting prize.
In anticipation of an attack, the works had been strengthened
and reinforced. At the critical time, the Fort and Harlem
Heights were manned by two Pennsylvania Regiments com-
manded by Colonels Magraw and Shea,Rawlin's Riflemen from
Maryland, some of the militia of the flying camp, and a few
companies detailed from the Connecticut Regiments. On the
15th of November, Sir William Howe summoned Colonel Ma-
graw, (who had the chief command of the garrison.) to sur-
render. That brave officer, acting under the immediate ad-
vice of Generals Putnam and Greene, responded, that he
would defend himself to the last extremity. On the morning
of the 16th the attack was commenced at four diflerent points
nearly at the same moment. The Hessians under Knyphau-
sen assaulted the south side ; the English Light Infantry, two
battalions of Guards, the 33d Regiment, and a body of Grena-
diers, commanded by General Matthews and Lord Cornwallis,
attacked the east side ; on the south, a feint was attempted by
Colonel Sterling with the 42d Regiment ; while Lord Percy,
with a very strong corps, directed the assault upon the west-
ern flank of the fortress. The assailants were provided with
excellent trains of artillery, which were brought to bear with
FORT WASHINGTON. 99
«
effect. The attack was prosecuted with extraordinary energy
and spirit, and the Americans continued to defend themselves
until resistance became fruitless. During a recess in the fight,
the garrison was again summoned to surrender ; and, after a
brief consultation with the officers, Magraw capitulated. The
entire American force, amounting to two thousand six hun-
dred men, surrendered as prisoners of war. During the seige,
the enemy lost about twelve hundred, and the Americans
about four luindi'cd.
Gorton, the historian, informs us that "while the enemy were
advancing to the attack, Generals Washington, Putnam and
Greene, and Colonel Knox, with their aids, crossed the river
and approached toward the Fort. They were warned of their
danger, and, after much persuasion, were induced to return.
Tlie garrison, however, was watched with intense interest by
Washington, who, from Fort Lee, could view several parts of
the attack ; and when he saw his men bayoneted, and in that
way killed while begging for quarter, he cried with the tender-
ness of a child, denouncing the barbarity that was practiced."
The terms of the capitulation were regarded as liberal and
honorable on the part of the victors, and highly favorable to
the vanqTiished. The manner in which those terms were vio-
lated, and every principle of humanity set at naught, by tho
miscreants into whose hands the unfortunate prisoners were
placed, is without a parallel in the history of the revolutionary
struggle. Crowded, witli hundreds of others, into the Sugar-
House and on board the Prison-Ships, without air or water
and for the first two days without food, contagion and death
were the natural consequences. The dysentery, small-pox,
and other terrible diseases, broke out among them, and very
few of the whole number survived the terrible ordeal. On the
27th of December, 1776, an exchange of prisoners took place.
Only eleven of Captain Beebe's Company were able to sail for
Connecticut, viz., Marsh, Woodruff, R. Loomis, B. Beach, N.
Beach, Marshall, Brownson,Bissell, Little, Benedict and Mason.
Six of these died on tlieir way home, viz., Bissell, Brownson, B.
Beach, Marsh, Marshall and Loomis. The remainder of those
who were living at that date, being too ill to be removed, were
100 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
left behind — where all (except Sergeant Mather,) died within a
few days, most of them with the small-pox. Here follow the
names of these " picked men." Tlie notes prefixed, appear to
have been added by Captain Becbe at the different periods
corresponding with the dates :
" An Account of the Prisoners^ Names and Places of Confine-
ment.
Sergt. Cotton Mather — returned home.
Sergt. David Hall — died of the small-pox on board the Gros-
vener, Dec. 11, 1776.
Elijah Loomis — died.
Gershom Gibbs — died on l)oard the ship, Dec. 29, 1776.
Timothy Stanley — died on board the ship, Dec. 26, 1776.
Amos Johnson — died Dec. 26, 1776.
Timotliy Marsh — died on his way home.
Barnias Beach — died on his way home.
Samuel Vaill — died on board the Grosvener, Dec. 27, 1776.
Nathaniel Allen — died of small-pox, Jan. 1, 1777.
Enos Austin — died of the small-pox, Dec. 1, 1776, in the
evening.
Gideon Wilcoxson — died.
Thomas Mason — reached home.
Alexander McNiel — died.
Daniel Smith — died in New York, of small-pox, Jan. 1, 1777.
Noah Beach — reached home.
Daniel Benedict — reached home.
Isaac Gibbs — died Jan. 15, 1777.
Oliver Marshall — died on his way home.
Solomon Parmely — went on board the ship, and I fear he is
drowned, as I cannot find him.
David Olmsted — died Jan. 4, 1777.
Jared Stuart — died Jan. 26, 1777, in the morning.
John Lyman — died Jan 26, 1777.
Elisha Brownson — died on his way home.
The above Prisoners are at Livingston'' s Sugar House.
Zebulon Bissell — died in Woodbury, on his way home.
Aaron Stoddard — died Jan. 12, 1777.
John Parmely — died Jan. 15, 1777.
Joel Taylor— died Jan. 9, 1777.
James Little — reached home.
Phineas Goodwin — died Jan. 5, 1777.
[T/ie above at the Church called the Nortl Church.
TREATMENT OP PRISONERS. 101
Oliver Woodruff — reached home.
Remembrance Loomis — died on his way home.
[ The above at Brideivell.
The above Prisoners belong to Capt. Beebe's Company, Col.
Bradley's Regiment.
Corporal Samuel Cole,"^ Were either killed or made
Jeremiah Weed, I their escape from Fort Wash-
Joseph Spencer, \ ington, on the 16th of Novem-
John Whithig, j ber, 177(3."
Probably no similar instance of mortality occurred during
the entire war. Only six survivors out of a company of
thirty-six hale and hearty young men, is a per-centage of loss
rarely reached even in the most fatal engagements. But few,
if any, of these men were slain in battle. - They died misera-
ble deaths, from cold, hunger, thirst, suffocation, disease, and
the vilest cruelty from those to whom they had surrendered
their arms on a solemn promise of fair and honorable treat-
ment ! Well might Ethan Allen (a professed infidel,) with
clenched teeth, exclaim to Captain Beebe, as he did on one
occasion — " I confess my faith in my own creed is shaken ;
there ought to be a hell for such infernal scoundrels as that
Lowrie !" — referring to the officer in charge of the prisoners.
Captain Beebe, in consideration of his office, was allowed
the limits of the city on his parol of honor, but was compelled
to provide himself with food, lodging, and shelter. He was
accustomed to visit his men daily, so long as any remained,
and did whatever he was allowed to do, to alleviate their
wretched condition. He was not exchanged with the other
prisoners, but was detained within the " limits " for nearly a
year, at his own expense. During much of this time. Colonel
Allen was held in New York as a prisoner of war ; and, before
the remnant of the Litchfield soldiers were exchanged, these
two gallant officers often met for consultation.
In June, 1776, the General Assembly ordered six battalions
to be raised in this State and marched directly to New York,
there to join the continental army. A company was raised
in Litchfield for this service, of which Abraham Bradley was
Captain, Tilley Blakesley, 1st Lieutenant, Thomas Catlin, 2d
Lieutenant, and James Morris, Jr., Ensign.
102 THE HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Among the " Wolcott Papers " is preserved the following
Deposition made on the Od of Ma}^, 1777, before Andrew Ad-
ams, Esq., /. P., by Lieutenant Thomas Callin, of this town,
(father of the late Dr. Abel Catlin,) who was an officer in the
American army in New York in 1776. He avers, in substance,
" That he was taken Prisoner by the British Troops on New
York Island, September 15, 1776, and confined with a great
number in close Gaol, eleven days ; that he had no susten-
ance for forty-eight hours after he was taken ; that for eleven
whole days they had only about two days' allowance, and their
pork was offensive to the smell. That forty-two were confined
in one house, till Fort Washington was taken, when the house
was crowded with other Prisoners ; after which they were in-
formed they should have two-thirds allowance — which consis-
ted of very poor Irish Pork, Bread hard, mouldy and wormy,
made of canail and dregs of flax-seed. The British Troops had
good bread. Brackish water was given to the Prisoners, and
he had seen $1 50 given for a common pail of water. Only
between three and four pounds of Pork was given three men
for three days. That for near three months, the private sol-
diers were confined in the Churches, and in one were eight
hundred and fifty ; that about the 25th of December, 1776,
he and about two hundred and twenty-five others were put on
board the Glasgow at New York to be carried to Connecticut
for exchange. They were on board eleven days, and kept on
black, coarse broken bread, and less pork than before. Twen-
ty-eight died during these eleven days ! They were treated
with great cruelty, and had no fire for sick or well. They
were crowded between decks, and many died throiigh hardship,
ill usage, hunger and cold."
This is another specimen of the treatment of our prison-
ers by the enemy. It is a source of gratification to every
American to be able to say, that British prisoners in American
hands, in the same contest, were treated more like gentlemen
than like brutes.
" Before the revolution," says Mr. Gibbs, in his History of
the Administrations of Washington and Adams, "a leaden
equestrian statue of George III. stood in the Bowling Green
THE LEADEN STATUE. lO-i
in the city of New York. At the breaking out of the war,
this was overthrown, and, lead being highly valuable, was sent
to General Wolcott's at Litchlield for safe keeping ; where, in
process of time, it was cut up and run into bullets by his
daughters and their friends."
In a paper read before the New York Historical Society, by
the author above quoted, in October, 1844, he gives a curious
and interesting history of this statue, from which the following
extracts are made :
"Account of the Statue of George III. formerly standing
ON THE Bowling Green, New York.
" Most of the members are probably aware that an Equestrian
Statue of King George III. stood upon the Bowling Green, in this
city, prior to the Revolution, and was overthrown soon after its com-
mencement. I believe, however, that its subsequent fate has never
been recorded, and having in my possession a paper giving authentic
information on the subject, I have supposed that the royal effigy
might be worth a brief obituary.
Holt's (New York) Gazette, as quoted by Mr. Dunlap, gives the
following )iotice of its erection :
' August 21st, 1770, being the birth-day of Prince Frederick, the
father of George III., an elegant Equestrian Statue of his present
Majesty, George III. was erected in the Bowling Green, near Fort
George. On this occasion the members of his IMajesty's Council, the
City Corporation, the Corporation of the Chamber of Commerce, the
Corporation of the Marine Society, and most of the gentlemen of the
City and Army, waited on his Honor, the Lieutenant-Governor Col-
den, in the Fort, at his request ; when his Majesty's and other loyal
healths were drunk uniler a discharge of thirty-two pieces of cannon,
from the Battery, accompanied with a band of inusic. This beautiful
Statue is made of metal [Dunlap says, by way of parenthesis, ' the
writer did not like to say lohat metal represented his royal majesty,
the best of kings — it was lead,''] being the first equestrian one of his
present Majesty, and is the workmanship of that celebrated statuary,
Mr. Wilton of London.'
Symptoms of disloyalty, betokening revolution I suppose, soon man-
ifested themselves in the rude treatment of the effigy, for on the 6th
or February, 1773, an act was passed ' to prevent the defacing of
statues which are erected in the city of New York.'
Upon the above account Mr. Dunlap observes — ' This statue stood
till sometime in 1776. I saw it in 1775. In 1776 it was thrown
down, and tradition says converted into bullets to resist his gracious
majesty's soldiers when sent to enforce the doctrine of ' the sovereign-
ty of the British Parliament over the Colonies in all cases whatsoever'
— the doctrine of Mr. Pitt, Lord Chatham, which he died in an effort
to enforce. The pedestal stood until long after the Revolution. No
10-4 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
fragment of the horse or his rider was ever seen after its overthrow,
and so completely had the memory of the event been lost, that I have
never found a person who could tell me on what occasion it was or-
dered, or when placed in the Bowling Green.'
Some cotemporary notices of the destruction of this effigy have
been pointed out to me, which I will cite. The tirst is from a book
of general orders issued by Washington, the original of which is in
the possession of this Society. It is as follows :
'July 10. — Though the General doubts not the persons who pulled
down and mutilated the statue in Broadway last night, acted in the
public cause, yet it has so much the appearance of riot and want of
order in the army, that he disapproves of the manner, and directs that
in future these things shall be avoided by the soldiery and left to be
executed by jjroper authority.'
The next is in a letter from Ebenezer Hazard to General Gates,
dated July 12th, 1776, which will be found among the Gates Papers,
and in the Society's Collection — and is as follows :
*The King of England's arms have been burned in Philadelphia,
and his statue here has been pulled down to make musket balls of,
so that his troops will probably have melted majesty fired at them.'
Another is in a letter from New York, of July 11, 1776, published
in the New Hampshire Gazette of the 27th —
' Last Monday evening, the Equestrian Statue of George IH., with
tory pride and folly raised in the year 1770, was, by the Sons of
Freedom, laid prostrate in the dust — the just desert of an ungrateful
tyrant. The lead wherewith this monument is made, is to be run
into bullets, to assimulate with the brains of our infatuated adversa-
ries, who, to gain a peppercorn, have lost an empire. A gentleman
who was present at the ominous fall of his leaden majesty, looking
back to the original's hopeful beginning, pertinently exclaimed in the
language of the angel to Lucifer — ' If thou be'est he, but ah how
fallen I how changed !' '
Mr. Stephens* (Incidents of Travel in Russia, etc., vol. ii, p. 23,)
mentions having met with a curious memorial of its destruction, and
at an out of the way place. This was a gaudy and flaring engraving
in a black wooden frame, representing the scene of its destruction,
which he found in a tavern at Chioff, in Russia. 'The grouping of
picture,' he says, ' was rude and grotesque, the ringleader being a long
negro stripped to his trowsers, and straining with all his might upon
a rope, one end of which was fastened to the head of the statue and
the other tied around his own waist, his white teeth and the whites of
his eyes being particularly conspicuous on a heavy ground of black.'
How this picture found its way to Russia, it would be difficult to
imagine ; it would certainly be not less a curiosity here than there.
The document I have mentioned gives an account of its remaining
history in a shape which history seldom assumes, that of an account
* John L. Stephens, the celebrated traveler, was a graduate of the Litchfield Law
School.
THE LEADEN STATUE. 105
current. It is preserved among the papers of General (afterwards
Governor) Wolcott, of Connecticnt. It is a statement of the number
of cartridges made from the materials of the statue by the young la-
dies of Litchfield, and is in these words :
'Mrs. Marvin, 3456 cartridges.
" " on former account, 2602
6058
11,592
8378
Ruth Marvin on former account, 6204
Not sent to court house 449 packs, 5388
Laura, on former account, 4250
Not sent to court house 344 packs, 4128
Mary Ann, on former account, 5762
Not sent to the court house 119 packs, out
of which I let Col. Perley Howe have
3 packs, 5028
10,790
Frederick, on former account, 708
Not sent to court house 19 packs, 228
936
37,754
Mrs. Beach's two accounts, 2,002
Made by sundry persons, 2,182
Gave Litchfield Militia, on alarm, 50
Let the regiment of Col. Wigglesworth have 300
Cartridges, No. 42,288
Overcharged in Mrs. Beach's account, 200
42,088'
The original document is in General Wolcott's hand writing, and
is endorsed ' number of cartridges made,' There is no date to it, nor
is there mention made by him of the fact of their being made from the
statue ; but a memorandum added by his son, the last Governor Wol-
cott, explains it as follows:
' N. B. An equestrian statue of George the Third of Great Britain
was erected in the city of New York, on the Bowling Green, at the
lower end of Broadway, Most of the materials were lead, but richly
gilded to resemble gold. At the beginning of the Revolution, this
statue was overthrown. Lead then being scai'ce and dear, the statue
was broken in pieces, and the metal transported to Litchfield as a
place of safety. The ladies of the village converted the lead into cart-
ridges, of which the preceding is an account. O. W.'
The Mrs. and Miss Marvin and Mrs. Beach, mentioned in the pa-
per, belonged to families who yet reside in Litchfield ; the other per-
sons named, were the two daughters and youngest son of General
Wolcott. 14
106 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Lltclifiekl, it may be noticed, was, during the war, a place of great
importance as a military depot. After the capture of New York by
the British in 1776, all communication between New England and
Pennsylvania was turned to the westward of the Highlands on the
Hudson, and the troops and stores were usually passed through that
village as a point on the most convenient route to the posts on the
river yet in possession of the Americans. General Wolcott, who was
a member of the Continental Congress, lived there ; and, during the
intervals of his congressional attendance, was constantly occupied in
raising troops to supply the requisitions of Washington, Putnam and
Gates. It appears from his letters that he returned to Connecticut
shortly after the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, of
which he was one of the signers, and it is probable that the statue was
transported there at his instance, immediately after its destruction.
Of its identity as the material for the cartridges above mentioned,
there can be no doubt. The last Governor Wolcott, on graduating
from Yale College in 1778, was appointed to an office in the Quarter
Master's Department, under General Greene, and was posted at Litch-
field in charge of the stores there. His opportunity for knowing the
fact, as mentioned in his note, was therefore certain. The late Hon.
Judge Wolcott, moreover, who figures in the account as ' Frederick,'
and who was a boy at the time, informed me a few years ago that he
well remembered the circumstance of the statue being sent there, and
that a shed was erected for the occasion in an apple-orchard adjoining
the house, where his father chopped it up with a wood axe, and the
girls had a frolic in running the bullets and making them up into cart-
ridges. I suppose the alarm of the militia, on which some were dis-
tributed, was Tryon's Invasion in 1777, when Danbury was burnt.
On this occasion, fourteen men, the last in Litchfidd capable of hear-
ing arms, were started at midnight to aid in repulsing the enemy."
A few miscellaneous facts relating to Litchfield men are
here introduced nearly in chronological order.
It should have been mentioned previously, that Captain
David Welch, of Litchfield, commanded a company that was
called into active service early in 1775, and in April of that
year he was commissioned as Major in Colonel Hinman's regi-
ment. He served throughout the war, and was an efficient
and popular officer. During this year, also, Jedediah Strong
was appointed a Commissary to purchase Horses for the Army ;
and Oliver Wolcott was chosen a member of the continental
congress. Fisher Gay, of Farmington, (a native of this town,)
was one of the Lieutenant-Colonels appointed and commis-
sioned at the special session of the Legislature held in March.
In May, 1776, Amos Parmeley was allowed by the Assembly
X14: 12: 1, lawful money, " for nursing his sick son, John,
MISCELLANEOUS EVENTS. 107
who was a soldier in Major Welch's company, General Woos-
ter's regiment, in the northern army, in 1775." This is the
John Parmcley who died in captivity in New York, in Janu-
ary, 1777. Jedediah Strong was appointed Commissary for
the purchase of Clothing, and on a Committee to exchange bills
of credit for specie.
On the 4th of July, Oliver Wolcott appended his name to
the Declaration of Independence. In October he was re-
appointed a member of the continental congress.
Drs. Reuben Smith and Seth Bird were appointed by the
Legislature, in October, on a committee " to examine all per-
sons in this State that should be offered at Surgeons or Sur-
geons' Mates in the continental army or navy, and if found
qualified, to give them certificates."
Andrew Adams was appointed, with others, to cause the
arrest of all suspected persons, and those dangerous to the
liberties of America.
In December, the Legislature appointed Tapping Reeve and
Lynde Lord on a committee to " to rouse and animate the
l>eople," and endeavor to procure the enlistment of volunteers
for Washington's army. A company was forthwith raised in
Litchfield, and the following officers were commissioned — Na-
thaniel Goodwin, Captain ; Alexander Waugh, Lieutenant ;
and Ozias Goodwin, Ensign. At the same session. Colonel
Wolcott was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General, and
given the command of the Fourth Brigade.
While General Wolcott was attending upon the sessions of
Congress in Philadelphia, his principal Litchfield correspon-
dents (aside from Mrs. Wolcott and his son Oliver,) were
Samuel Lyman, Esq., and Dr. Reuben Smith — both, of course,
true patriots. Mr. Lyman was accustomed to write upon
family matters, and on public affairs generally ; while Dr.
Smith kept the General advised on subjects of local interest.
We give the subjoined letter from Dr. Smith entire — with the
simple suggestion, that considerable allowance must be made
for the personal and political prejudices of the writer. His
insinuation in regard to Major Welch, for instance, was alike
ungenerous and uncalled for. If his active service on the
108 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
field does not afford sufficient evidence of bis zeal in the cause
of Independence, we have yet a surer test of his patriotism in
the fact that it was again and again endorsed by a majority of
his fellow-townsmen, in electing him to various public offi-
ces— at times, too, when they would not tolerate the least
suspicion of toryism. When Dr. Smith's letter was writ-
ten, a feeling of coldness and despondency seemed to pre-
vail among the patriots throughout the colonies. A re-action
had succeeded the enthusiasm with which the Revolution was
inaugurated. Frequent reverses had led some of the truest
friends of freedom to fear as to the final result of the conflict
in which they were engaged. In addition to this, the fact is
not to be disguised that there had been from the first a for-
midable minority of the voters of this town who were bitter
opponents of the " Great Rebellion," as they were wont to
term it. These facts will serve to account for the temporary
inactivity of the patriots in Litchfield, of which the Doctor
complains.
''Litchfield, ITtli April, 1777.
Hon'd Sir — Your favor of the 1st instant came to hand the loth,
and I now sit down to give you the desired information, though ignor-
ant of any proper conveyance.
At the Town Council in January, John Marsh, 3d, and Daniel Rowe,
were objected to as Innholders ; upon which Captain John, who is
this year one of the Selectmen, moved that Marsh might be called in,
which was agreed to. He accordingly came in, and acknowledged
the several charges in substance, and openly declared that in his opin-
ion America had better settle the dispute on the best ierms they could
obtain from Great Britain ; that the further we proceeded, the deeper
we should get in the mire, (his own words,) and must finally submit.
Captain John tried to help him out, by putting some questions which
would admit of ambiguous answers; but the young man was too open
and frank in his answers, and accordingly was left out, as was Eowe.
Captain Seymour and David Stoddard were put in their room.
The latter end of January I joined the army under General Woos-
ter, and retreating soon after in a stormy night, was over fatigued,
fell sick, was carried up to Horseneck and there discharged, and re-
turned home some time in P"'ebruary. Some soldiers having brought
home the small pox, I found a number had ventured upon innoculation
without making proper provision that it might not spread in the town.
The peoj)le were much divided ; some warmly engaged for innocula-
tion, others as warmly opposed. Unhappily tor me, 1 was chosen one
of the Selectmen this year, (with Captain Marsh, Mr. Strong, Cap-
• tain McNiele and Captain Osboru,) and was therefore under a necessi-
LETTER FROM DR. REUBEN SMITH. 109
ty of interposing in the matter ; and thought best, as it was against
law, neither to encourage or oppose, but endeavor to bring it under
proper regulations — in which, however, I failed of the wished for suc-
cess, our counsels being very much divided. Several having taken it
the natural way from those that were innoculated, Captain Marsh
was engaged to crush innoculation wholly ; and some people have
been so unreasonable as to say Mr. Strong was both for and against
it. Be that as it way, it served as a game. Both had like to have
been losers.
I can't recollect that March produced anything very remarkable
except the struggle about the small pox.
April is a month of great importance and expectation. Several
appeai'ed by the suffrages to be candidates for election at the Freemen's
Meeting. Mr. Adams came in first; and, after many rounds, Mr.
Strong just carried it against Captain Bradley. Captain John Marsh
fell much short of the number 1 expected. Major Welch, who for
some time has appeared a cool friend of the American cause, was ob-
served to have nearly all the tory votes. So much for Deputies. The
Constables for Litchfield were Lieutenant Mason, (since dead,) Al-
exander Catlin, Briant and David Stoddard. Lieutenant Mason was
appointed in the winter service, was seized with a pleurisy at De-
Lancey's Mills, (Westchester,) sent over to Rochelle, and when we
retreated from Fort Independence, was removed to Mamrock, where
he died the same day. His eldest son, who was with Captain Beebe
at Fort Washington, came home about the same time in a very miser-
able condition, and is since dead. Captain Beebe and Lieutenant
Jesse Grant still remain in captivity. It was said, after our success
at Trenton and Princeton, that we were abundantly able to exchange
all our prisoners; and certain it is, that we have numbers in hand,
and yet our people are held prisoners. Is there not somewhere a neg-
lect? May these partial ills be productive of universal good! Has
my honored friend any bright prospects ? Has he any cordial for
one almost in the Nadir of Despondency ? Public spirit and virtue
exist with us only in idea. Almost every one is pursuing his private
gain, to the entire neglect of the public good. Our proportion of the
continental army, I believe, is not half completed. Men will not en-
list, and if drafted only for six weeks, (as has lately been the case,)
they will rather pay a fine of five pounds. Thirteen men were the
other day drafted in Captain Marsh's company to go to Peekskill and
to be held but six weeks after their arrival. Not one has gone or in-
tends to go. This town met last week and voted £12 premium for
every one that should enlist into the continental army for three years
or during the war; but I cannot learn that one man has enlisted since.
This day orders came to town from the Governor and Council of Safe-
ty to hll up the Eight Battalions immediately, by drafting men out of
the militia and alarm companies, till the 1st of January ; but it will
not be done, as a fine of five pounds will excuse from going.
Our money is continually depreciating. This week, John Collins
sold two yoke of oxen for £95, which might have been bought a twelve
■ month past for £20 per yoke. Every necessary article is continually
110 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
rising in price, which proves a fatal discouragement to men's engag-
ing in the service ; for if they go, their families (say they) must un-
avoidably sulfer and starve, as their bounty and pay will not procure
them the necessary support.
Monday, '2Sth April. — Finding no opportunity of forwarding the
foregoing, direct, it has lain by until this time, and now send it to the
Post OlKce in Hartford with the following addition :
Intelligence was brought to town last Saturday afternoon, that
twenty-four Transports w'ere come to a place called Compo, between
Fairfield and Norwalk, and that the troops were landing. About two
o'clock next morning, an Express came from New Milford, who in-
formed that the troops landed to the number of three thousand, with
some liglit field-pieces, and proceeded direct to Danbury, where they
arrived without the least opposition on Saturday at two o'clock in the
afternoon, took possession of our stores and the town, which was said
to be in flames when the Express came away. The people with
great spirit turned out immediately from all our towns, but I fear to
little purpose ; for if they fired the town Saturday afternoon, they will
get on board their shipping before our people get down. Last night,
advice was brought that the enemy was landing at New Haven on
Saturday night, but I imagine it to be only a feint in order to prevent
their retreat being cut off. We have heard nothing from Danbury
since the departure of our people. The Tories are grown very inso-
lent, but I believe they will not dare attempt anything openly with us.
Mrs. Wolcott and family are well. Oliver is gone to Danbury.
My haste must apologize for abruptness, &c.
I am, Sir, Your Humble Servant,
REUBEN SMITH.
Hon. Oliver Wolcott, Philadelphia."
The last Governor Wolcott (then a student at Yale College,)
was in Litchfield at the time of the alarm. Awakened at
midnight by the summons to repair to the rendezvous of tlie
militia, he armed himself ; his mother, furnishing his knapsack
with provisions and a blanket, hastened his departure, and
dismissed him with the charge " to conduct like a good sol-
dier." He, with the other volunteers from this town, partici-
pated in the skirmish at Wilton, as well as in the subsequent
attacks during the retreat of the British from the burning of
Danbury.
From another letter written by Dr. Smith to General Wol-
cott, (dated at Litchfield, May 12th, 1777,) we make the fol-
lowing extracts. It was penned, as will be observed, after
the return of the Litchfield soldiers from the Danbuiy Alarm :
" Sunday morning, 27th April, about one o'clock, we were alarmed
Our people turned out spiritedly; came up with the rear of the ene.
THE DANBURY ALARM. Ill
my about eleven the next day, a little below Wilton meeting-house,
and pursued them aboard their ships. Paul Peck was killed in the
last attack on the enemy. Levi Peck, (Thomas Peck's son,) was
wounded in the shoulder about the same time. In Wilton, Ozias
Goodwin was wounded in the arm, and Salmon Buel had one of his
thighs broken, and the other shot through with the same ball.*
The infamous Daniel Griswold came into the western part of this
town, the morning before the alarm, and was there concealed till
Monday ; and took off' to join the ministerial army, David Kilbourn,
Benjamin Ivilbourn's son Charles, Isaac Kilbourn's son Abraham, and
Samuel Kilbourn son of Giles Kilbourn, Jonathan Smith, Jr., and his
brother Elisha, (who was enlisted in the light horse,) David Joy, Ben-
jamin Doolittle, Josiah Stone, and John Davies' son David, and one
John Beach of Woodbury who lived at Josiah Stone's.
The Wednesday following they were taken, (except Benjamin Doo-
little and Charles Kilbourn, who it is said were killed in attempting
to escape,) t and were carried to Derby, where they were tried by a
Court Martial, and Griswold was sentenced to be hanged; which
sentence was executed on the Monday following, at New Haven.
The rest were pardoned, upon their enlisting into the continental army
during the War.
Governor Franklin is confined in our Gaol, and a constant Guard
is kept. We trust he will find it difficult to escape, should he attempt
it. I understand he utterly denies the charge of dispensing Pardons
and Protections."
Of Paul Peck, alluded to in the letter of Dr. gmith, it is
said, " he was the most expert hunter of the time in which he
lived. At the Danbury Alarm, he put his large gun in order,
followed the enemy to Compo, on their retreat, and took a
station behind a stone wall, where every shot told — until he
was rushed upon by the enemy, who took his gun from him
and dashed his brains out with it." He was killed, April 28,
1777, aged about seventy -five years. J
* The Assembly allowed Mr. Buel £60 for his relief. He never fully recovered
from the effects of his wounds. He was the father of Capt. Salmon Buel, who
is still living.
t These men both escaped. Doolittle remained in Litchfield until some thirty years
ago, when he removed West. Kilbourn settled in Canada. (See Biog. Sketches.)
I It is stated that Father Mills, the eccentric clergyman of Torringford, wishing on
one occasion to illustrate the certain and irrevocable doom of the wicked, told of a
timid Berkshire fox that started on a trip to tlie Sound. At first he was M'ary of every
step, and frightened at the rustling of a leaf. But having safely passed the snares,
and hunters, and hounds, that beset his Avay, he becames careless, proud and self-
conceited. " He enters Fat Swamp at a jolly trot, head and tail up, looking defiance
at the enemies he has left so far heliind him. But Oh, the dreadful reverse: — In the
midst of his haughty reverie, he is brought to a sudden and everlasting stop in one
OP Paul Peck's traps."
112 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Twenty or thirty prisoners of war, of various grades, were
sometimes confined in the Litchfield Jail at once. The loca-
tion being so far inland, and so distant from any navigable
stream, it was thought tliey would be less liable to be discov-
ered and rescued here, than at Hartford, New Haven or Boston.
Among those confined here in 1776 and 1777, were Mr. Mat-
thews, the English Mayor of New York, and Hon. William
Franklin, the royal Governor of New Jersey. Franklin was a
son of the famous Dr. Benjamin Franklin, and held the office
of Governor from 1763 to 1776, when he was seized by the
whigs and conveyed to Governor Trumbull, of Connecticut,
by whose order he was for some time confined at Wallingford
and Middletown. In April, 1777, the Council of Safety of this
State received an order from Congress " to confine Governor
Franklin without pen, ink or pa[»er ; and directed him to be
conveyed, under guard, by the Sheriff of Hartford county, to
Litchfield Jail." In September, we find mention made in
the records of the Council, of an order drawn in favor of
Lynde Lord, Esq., of Litchfield, of XlOO toward the expense
of the guard placed over the Governor ; and on the 15th of
January, 1778, another similar order was drawn in favor of
Sheriff Lord.
Governor Franklin, after his release, went to England, and
was pensioned for his sufferings and losses. He died in 1813,
aged 86.
Under date of August 1, 1776, in the proceedings of the
Council of "War, occurs the following record as copied by Hin-
man, (Hist. Bcv. p. 377): " Letters from the Convention of
New York sent by Mr. De Peyster, respecting the pris-
oners sent from New York to Litchfield Jail, were read ; and
thereupon ordered, that the Mayor of New York should be
brought to Hartford and there confined. Gilbert Forbes and
William Forbes were directed to be confined in Litchfield jail,
and the other ten to be taken to Norwich jail ; and warrants
were ordered to be sent to the several jailers."
In the proceedings of the Council of Safety, under date of
August 26, 1776, occurs the following memorandum, viz.,
" Last Monday, David Matthews, Mayor of the City of New
PUBLIC MEN IN LITCHFIELD. 113
York,Avas brought from Litchfield, and on Friday was return-
ed to Litchfield, to remain under the care of Captain Moses
Seymour."
The first Pleasure Carriage ever brought into this town, was
presented by Mayor Matthews to Mrs. Moses Seymour, whose
husband, it will be seen, had the custody of the Mayor. The
carriage was in use here as recently as 1818. The Mayor's
traveling trunk is still in this town, in possession of one of
Major Seymour's descendants.
Early in 1777, orders were issued for raising eight battalions
in Connecticut for the continental service, " to serve for three
years, or during the war." Ninety-two of the soldiers for
these battalions were ordered to be raised in Litchfield. In
April of this year, the town voted to pay out of the treasury
to each soldier that should enlist for the full term specified, the
sum of twelve pounds per annum, in addition to the pay they
might receive from the State or General Governments. The
Selectmen were at the same time directed to lay a tax for the
purpose designated, and Messrs. Miles Bach, Leman Stone,
Moses Barns and Stephen Bidwell, were appointed Collectors.
Before proceeding farther, it is proper to add, that at the
period of which we are writing, Litchfield was the home of a
remarkable number of educated and thinking men — some of
whom were already distinguished, and others who were des-
tined to act an important part in their country's history. In-
deed, no town in the State could boast of a community more
refined, intelligent and patrotic. Within our present borough
limits resided, Oliver Wolcott, Andrew Adams, Reynold Mar-
vin, Tapping Reeve, Isaac Baldwhi, Samuel Lyman, Isaac
Baldwin, Jr., Elisha Sheldon, John Pierce, Jr., Dr. Thomas
Little, Lynde Lord, Rev. Timothy Collins, Rev. Judah Cham-
pion, Dr. Lemuel Hopkins, Dr. Reuben Smith, Moses Seymour,
Timothy Skinner, Abraham Bradley, William Stanton, Am-
brose Collins, Elijah Wadsworth, and Ephraim Kirby — all of
whom, and many more, were conspicuous as public men and
patriots. To this " goodly companie" were soon added, Oli-
ver Wolcott, Jr., Ashbel Baldwin, Ezekiel Woodruff, Julius
Doming, Uriah Tracy and Doct. Daniel Sheldon — who all
15
114 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
became residents here before the close of the war. Sixteen of
the gentlemen named, were graduated at Yale College, and
one (Judge Reeve) at the College of New Jersey ; three were
members of the State Council ; four were members of the na-
tional congress, or became such ; seven were captains in the
revolutionary army, and four rose to the rank of general offi-
cers ; two became Chief Justices and two Governors of the
State. Jedediah Strong, whose residence was jiist outside the
limits stated, was a member of the State Council and of the
continental Congress. Every section of the town, in fact,
furnished its full proportion of able and faithful men both in
public stations and in private life — some of whom have already
been referred to. Among these were Dr. Seth Bird, Rev.
George Beckwith, Colonel Beebe, Major Welch, Captains
Morris, McNiel, Goodwin, Osborn, Stone, Waugh, Stoddard,
Buel, &c.
The era was characterized by a rancor of party feeling
which has rarely been equalled in the history of this or any
other country. At times, the zeal of the patriots knew no
bounds, and they naturally enough regarded all who differed
from them relative to the kingly prerogative, as foes to liberty
and inimical to the vital interests of the country. The gen-
tlemen named above, belonged to the popular and triumphant
party, and their memory is cherished by a grateful posterity.
There were others in this town, as elsewhere throughout the
land — honorable, influential and conscientious men — who,
while they openly disapproved of many acts of the parliament,
were yet warmly attached to the royal cause. They looked
upon revolution as not only treason to their sovereign, but
predestined to be ruinous to all who might engage in it ; and
they chose to suffer what they regarded as only temporary evils,
rather than rush into tlie vortex of war for redress. Nor is
all this a matter of surprise, when we consider the force of ed-
ucation. In the colonies, as in England, the people had been
taught that, next to religion, loyalty was the cardinal virtue.
" Fear God, and honor the King,'' was a precept which none
but the infidel and traitor had ventured to gainsay. Some
argued that any attempt at independence was rank ingratitude
THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND. 115
Oil oiir part. " In our weakness," said they, " were not the
armies of England again and again sent over to protect us
from the French aiid Indians ?" The Episcopalians, or mem-
bers of the Church of England, were drawn towards the moth-
er country by still stronger and dearer ties. Their clergymen
were ordained and set apart to the work of the ministry, by
English Bishops ; and their Book of Common Prayer taught
them to pray for the King and Royal Family. Besides, Litch-
field was still a "missionary station," under the direction and
patronage of the " Venerable Society in England for Propaga-
ting the Gospel in Foreign Parts" — the Rector of St. Michael's
Church receiving a portion of his annual salary directly from
that Society. With them^ independence not only involved a
political separation from Great Britain, but a severance of an
ecclesiastical bond of union which they had long regarded as
indispensable to their prosperity, if not to their very existence
as a church. Hence a large proportion of the Episcopalians in
Litchfield were opposed to the Revolution. This fact, it is to
be presumed, will hardly be called in question — and, for the
reasons given, does not necessarily imply any lack of patriot-
ism on their part. The late Rev. Isaac Jones, of this town, in
his Centennial Discourse, in 1845, says — " In the War of the
Revolution, churchmen were generally attached to the Gov
erment of Great Britain, as were their ministers ; but not all
of them, however. The ministers derived their support from
the Venerable Society, etc. For their adherence to the royal
cause, they were troubled, and suffered much. So were they
in this town." The late Rev. Truman Marsh, for thirty years
Rector of St. Michael's, in 1845, thus wrote : " The writer of
this sketch can remember when, in this village, lie has been
ridiculed and insulted when going to or returning from church
on the Lord's day ; when the windows of the church were bro-
ken ; and in the place of broken panes of glass, wooden sliding
windows were opened to let in the light of heaven to read the
prayers of the Common Prayer Book. Thanks be to Heaven
for the great change in public sentiment !"
In such a contest as that of which we are speaking, conten-
tions, and strifes, and bitterness, are almost inevitably engen
IIG HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
dered. In this town, friends, neighbors, and even liousoholds,
became divided and estranged. Not unfrequently, the father
took one side, and the sons the other — and brothers sometimes
took opposite sides. " Natural affection" seemed for awhile
to be regarded as a sentiment which ought not to be tolerated
between whi^ and tory. This feeling reached its culminating
point in the death of Daniel Griswold, already mentioned in
the letters of Dr. Smith. Griswold is said to have been a
young man of good character and great energy, and was not
unpopular with a large class of whigs. Perhaps, by the
bloody code of war, he ought to have suffered death as a trai-
tor for enlisting soldiers for the king's service ; though it .is
a fact beyond dispute, that there were among the king's troops,
in that very contest, whole regiments of " lloyal Americans,"
as they were styled. Many of the leading whigs of Litchfield
were open in their condemnation of the action of the Court
Martial in this instance, and the event probably did not advance
the republican cause in this town.
CHAPTER VII.
THE REVOLUTIONARY ERA — CONTINUED.
From 1776 to 1780, Litchfield was a depot for military stores
and provisions, which were guarded by a considerable military
force. The depot for provisions stood on the premises now
occiipied in part by Dr. Bnel's Private Lunatic Asylum, in
North street, where a building was erected for that purpose
sixty feet long and two stories high. On the site of the present
Court House, was erected a building of similar dimensions as
a depot for other military stores. A work-shop for the army,
(which was also sixty feet in length and two stories high,)
stood on the north side of East street, just west of the Burying
Ground. The prisoners of war were generally kept in the
Old Jail, which stood in East street, on the spot now occupied
by the dwelling-house of Mr. Charles L, Perkins. At each of
the places here designated, a military guard was stationed
night and day — the roll being called, the soldiers drilled, and
the guard set, at stated intervals, with as much precision as
would have been observed by an army encamped in the vicin-
ity of the enemy. The stores and provisions deposited here,
were for much of the time under the general superintendence
of Commissary William Richards, of Elizabethtown, N. J.
Ashbel Baldwin, a native of this town, graduated at Yale Col-
lege in 1776, and soon received the appointment of Quarter-
master and was stationed here. He remained at this post be-
tween two and three years, when he received an honorable
discharge, and was succeeded in office by Oliver Wolcott, Jr.,
who graduated in 1778.
On the SOth of June, 1777, Governor Trumbull wrote to
General Wolcott, informing him that a team would be sent to
Litchfield loaded with powder, lead and flints, and requesting
118 HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
him to send a team to Salisbury for a load of cannon-sliot to
be forwarded to Hartford by the returning teams. By a sub-
sequent record of the Council of Safety, it appears that on this
occasion, there were sent to Litchfield seventeen hundred
pounds of gun-powder, two thousand pounds of lead, one thou-
sand flints, and three hundred pounds of cannon-powder.
On the 23d of July following, an order was drawn on David
Trumbull for £25: 5 : 10, in favor of John and Daniel Dew-
ey, " for carting powder and lead from Lebanon to Litchfield."
Late in the autumn of this year, a large proportion of the mil-
itary stores taken at the capture of Burgoyne were deposited
here.
In August, General TVolcott wrote to the Governor and
Council, stating that he had ordered all the effective men of
Sheldon's Horse and Humphreys' regiment, (who had not been
called to do duty under the recent act and were liable to be
called out of the State,) to march immediately to Peekskill,
well provided with arms, and with forty days' provisions. The
General's course was approved, and an order was directed to
be drawn on the State Treasurer, in his favor, for the sum of
<£1,000. About the same time. Sheriff Lord was directed to
procure from the merchants of Litchfield county, for the use
of the army, four hogsheads of rum, six hogsheads of sugar,
and two thousand pounds of coffee, at a stipulated price. If
the merchants refused to furnish the goods at the price named,
the Sheriff was ordered to take the articles wherever he could
Hnd them, at the appraisal of two or three judicious freeholders,
and to make return of his doings to the Council.
In September, Litchfield was established by the Council as
the place of rendezvous for the Sixth Brigade, and Major Beebe
was stationed here as the recruiting officer of the brigade.
On the 7tli of October, a special town meeting was held, of
w^hich Jacob Woodruff, Esq., was Moderator. At this meeting-
it was voted that Messrs. Lynde Lord, Thomas Catliii, Caleb
Gibbs, David Welch and Alexander Catlin, be a committee to
purchase and provide shirts, frocks, overalls, stockings and
shoes, for the non-commissioned officers and soldiers in the
continental army belonging to this town — agreeable to a re-
COMMITTEES APPOINTED. 119
solve of His Excellency the Governor and Council of Safety
passed Sept. 12, 1777."
The Committee of Safety, at a session held December 4th,
appointed one person in each county to see that the Clothing
for the Army, demanded of the several towns, was forthwith
provided by the Selectmen ; and to furnish pack-horses, or
other means of transportation, to convey the same to the Com-
missary at Middletown. Alexander Catlin, of this town, was
appointed the member of this Committee for the county of
Litchfield.
On the 10th of December, the following votes were passed
in town meeting, viz. :
" 1. Voted, That Messrs. David Welch, Nathaniel Woodruff,
Archibald McNiel, Jr., Ebenezer Benton and Thomas Waugh,
are hereby appointed a Committee to provide for the families
of soldiers according to law and to the votes of the town.
" 2. To pay the Committee a reasonable compensation for
their time and trouble.
" 3. That the Selectmen, together with Messrs. Tapping
Reeve, Seth Bird, Andrew Adams, Samuel Lyman and Lynde
Lord, be a Committee to prepare, state, and present for recove-
ry, sundry matters and accounts for money supposed to be due
the town.
" 4. That the Selectmen be empowered and desired to dis-
tribute to the non-commissioned officers and soldiers in the
continental army belonging to this town, and to the poor of
the town, and to the families of such as have died in the ser-
vice, whether continental or militia, or in captivity, and to
such other families in this town as are not in circumstances to
to supply themselves, forty-two bushels of Salt lately brouglit
from Boston — in such proportion as they shall judge most
suitable and right — at the rate of ten shillings per bushel ;
and the residue, to such as are able to purchase the same, at
prime cost."
" At a meeting of the inhabitants of Litchfield, legally warn-
ed and convened on the sixth day of January, A. D. 1778, to
take into consideration the Articles of Confederation and Per-
petual Union between the States of New Hampshire, Massa-
120 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
cliusetts Bay, Rhodo Island and Providence Plantations, Con-
necticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware,
Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Geor-
gia, exhibited by the Selectmen pursuant to a requisition from
His Excellency, the Governor — the said articles being distinct-
ly and repeatedly read and considered :
" Voted unanimously, That the said Articles of Confedera-
tion be approved, and that the Representatives of this town be
instructed to use their influence and votes in the General As-
sembly to invest the Delegates of this State with competent
powers, in the name and behalf of this State, in continental
congress, to subscribe and confirm the said Articles of Confed-
eration and Perpetual Union between the States."
Andrew Adams, Esq., was Moderator of the preceding
meeting.
At different dates during the continviance of the war, the
following persons (in addition to those already named,) were
appointed to furnish clothing, &c., for the soldiers in the pub-
lic service from this town, and to provide for their families,
viz., Capt. Joseph Vaill, Arthur Emons, Phineas Baldwin, 2d,
Capt. Solomon Marsh, Lieut. David Stoddard, Judson Guiteau,
Jonathan Wright, Timothy Skinner, Gad Farnham, Benjamin
Webster, John Smith, Ebenezer Plumb, and John Marsh.
In March, 1780, the following inhabitants of this town were
appointed Inspectors of Provisions for the Army, to wit, Mr.
Asahel Strong, Capt. Miles Beach, Capt. Reuben Stone, Lieut.
Thomas Catlin, Capt. Archibald McNiel, Jr., Ensign Jonathan
Wright, Mr. Abel Camp, Jr., Lieut. Lemuel Harrison, Capt.
Zebulon Taylor, Capt. Alexander Waugh, Mr. Edward Lins-
ley and Mr. Levi Stone.
In the spring of 1780, in consequence of the distressed situ-
ation of the army that had wintered at Morristown, Washing-
ton appealed to Governor Trumbull for assistance, and he
never appealed to him in vain. The following was related by
the late George Washington Parke Custis to Charles Hosmer,
Esq., of Hartford : A special messenger was despatched from
Washington's head-quarters to Governor Trumbull, to ascer-
tain whether he could rely on any supplies from Connecticut.
PROVISIONS FOR THE ARMY. 121
The messenger was detained but a short time, when Governor
Trumbull placed a sealed letter in his hand directed to Gen-
eral Washington. The contents of the letter were unknown
to the bearer, but he arrived safely in camp and delivered it
to "Washington. After the commander-in-chief had looked it
over in the presence of Mr. Custis, he remarked in the words
of the unbelieving Lord of riamaris — " If the Lord would make
windows in heaven, might this thing be." He then read the
letter aloud in the presence of Mr. Custis. Its purport was,
that on a certain day, and at a certain hour of the day, he
would receive at Newburgh, by a wagon-train from Hartford,
200 barrels of Flour, 100 barrels of Beef, and 100 barrels of
Pork. It also contained a request that a guard might be sent
to a place specified, for the protection of the train. Notwith-
standing Washington's unbelief, he sent a horse guard, as re-
quested. At the hour appointed, they saw the wagon-boys of
Connecticut approaching with their train of provisions. This
train passed through Litchfield on their way, where they obtain-
ed some additional supplies. When Washington received
these provisions, he remarked to Mr. Custis — " No other man
than Governor Trumbull could have procured them, and no
other State than Connecticut Avould have furnished them."
Accompanying the train, Colonel Henry Champion had a
drove of cattle which were tolled across the Hudson by the
side of small boats. Col. Champion (who held the office of
Commissary-General,) was father of the Rev. Judah Cham-
pion and Mrs. Julius Deming, and the grandfather of Mrs.
Asa Bacon, all of this town.
Early in the spring of 1780, a train of sleds loaded with
provisions for the army, passed through Hartford and Litch-
field on their way to Newburgh. Their progress was slow,
and the teamsters (among whom were Eleazer Pinney and
Ebenezer Nash of Ellington,) suffered incredible hardships on
account of the unprecedented depth of snow and the unbroken
state of the roads over which they passed. On arriving at the
Hudson, they attempted to cross on the ice, when their teams
broke through. The horse at the head of Mr. Nash's team,
was detached from the oxen and floated under the ice. In
16
122 THF] HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
due time, but not till after a desperate struggle, the oxen
were all rescued from their perilous situation. The principal
part of the stores were then drawn across the river on light
sleds, with but a single horse attached to each. These sui>-
plies were so much needed by the army, that no risk was con-
sidered too great in conveying them speedily to Washington's
camp.*
" At a legal Town Meeting, holdeii at Litchfield on Saturday
the 8th day of July, A. D. 1780— the Hon. Oliver Wolcott,
Moderator — it was voted. That to every able and effective man
belonging to this town, to the number of fourteen, who shall
voluntarily enlist himself into the Connecticut Battalions of
Infantry of the Contineutal Army, for three years or during
the war, this town will pay every such recruit such a sum in
money, including the wages he shall receive from the State or
the United States, as shall be sufficient to procure ten bushels
of good merchantable AVheat for every month he shall so serve,
the price of which Wheat shall be computed and the money
paid 'to such recruit, or his assigns, in Litchfield, in every
year, on the 1st day of January, during the time such recruit
shall serve as aforesaid ; and that this town will also pay as a
Bounty to every such recruit, or his assigns, in Litchfield, on
the 1st day of January of every year for so long a time as such
recruit shall serve as aforesaid, at the rate of thirty bushels of
good merchantable Wheat for one year's service, or the full
value thereof in money — for the payment of which monies or
wheat as aforesaid to such recruit or his assigns, in case he
shall enlist himself into said Battalions by the 15th day of
July instant, this town hereby becomes bound as aforesaid."
At the same Meeting, it was
" Voted, That whereas the Militia of this town are required
by an order of Colonel Andrew Adams, grounded on an act or
order of the Governor and Council of Safety made the 30th
day of June, 1780, to furnish fourteen able and effective men
to serve in the Connecticut Line of the Continental Army until
the 31st day of December next, this town being anxious to give
every necessary encouragement to the public service, hereby
*Sce No. XV, " South Windsor Sketches," in Hartford Times.
RAISING RECRUITS. 123
plight themselves to pay to every such recruit, or his assigns,
as shall voluntarily enlist himself into said Battalions by the
10th day of July instant, to serve in said Battalions until the
last day of December next, such sum in money as shall be suf-
ficient, including the wages he shall receive from this State or
the United States, to procure as much good merchantable
Wheat as might be obtained by the monthly wages of forty
shillings in the year 1774 — Provided, nevertheless, that the
Militia of this town not being called upon by virtue of said
order to furnish more than fourteen able recruits to serve in
said Battalions. This town will not consider themselves
bound by the votes of this day to pay Bounties or Wages to
more than fourteen such recruits ; and in case a greater num-
ber shall enlist, the preference shall be given to such as shall
enlist for three years or during the war — and of them, to such
as shall first enlist. And the Colonel or Commanding Officer
of this Regiment is desired to discharge any supernumerary
recruits, agreeable to these votes.
"Voted, That a Rate or Tax of six-pence on the pound, on
the list of 1779, be and the same is hereby laid, and made
payable in Gold or Silver Coin or Bills of Credit of this State
of the emissions of the present year, by the 1st day of Septem-
ber next."
Judson Gitteau, Timothy Skinner, Jonathan Wright and
Ozias Lewis, were appointed to collect the said Tax.
" At a legal Town Meeting holden at the Meeting-House in
the first society in Litchfield, on the 15th day of November,
An)io Dom. 1780 — Major David Welch, Moderator — is was
" Voted, That a Tax of one shilling upon the pound be laid
upon the Polls and Rateable Estate contained in the Grand
List of this town, given in the year 1779, to be collected and
paid to the Town Treasurer by the 1st day of December next,
in the Bills of Credit emitted by this State since the 1st day of
January last, new Continental Money issued under the author-
ity of this State, Gold and Silver, or old Continental Money
after the rate of forty shillings in old Continental Money for
one shilling Lawful Money, for purchasing Provisions and
124 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
requisite Supplies for the Army, and to defray otlier necessary
expenses of the town.
"Voted, Tliat Messrs. Timothy Skinner, Seth Farnham,
Theodore CatUn and Harris Hopkins, be Collectoi-s of the said
Tax accordingly.
" Provided, Nevertheless, tliat any person may pay any part
of said Tax in Provisions required, and at the respective prices
fixed in the Act of Assembly made at their session in October
last, entitled ' An Act for Collecting and Storing a Quantity
of Provisions for the use of the Continental Army and the
Forces raised for the Defense of this State.'
" Voted, That Messrs. Timothy Skinner, Seth Famham,
Theodore Catlin and Harris Hopkins, be a Committee to pur-
chase Provisions agreeable to said Act of Assembly.
" Voted, That Messrs. Miles Beach and Leraan Stone be
appointed to receive the Salt, procure Casks to contain said
Provisions, to receive and inspect the same, see that it is good
and merchantable and well put up, and mark and. store the
casks, and report to the Governor, agreeable to said Act of
Assembly.
" Voted, Tliat said Beach and Stone be also employed to
purchase any of such Provisions as occasion may offer or o]>
portunity present.
" Voted, That said Timothy Skinner, Seth Farnham, Theo-
dore Catlin, Harris Hopkins, Miles Beach and Leman Stone,
be also appointed to purchase the Clothing required for the
Army, agreeable to directions to be given to them from time to
time by the Selectmen."
December 26, 1780 — Reuben Smith, Esq., Moderator —
" Voted, That Timothy Skinner, Heber Stone, James Stod-
dard, Reuben Stone, David Welch and Zebulon Taylor, be a
Committee to hire, at the cost of the town, the requisite num-
ber of recruits to complete the quota of this town in the Con-
necticut Line of the Army of the United States, for three years
or during the war."
January 9, 1781. — Colonel Andrew Adams, Moderator. —
" Voted, That whereas it is necessary that this town raise a
number of soldiers to fill up their quota in the Army of the
TOWN VOTES. 125
United States, the town does promise and engage to each sol-
dier that shall enlist into said service in either of the Connec-
ticut Battalions, before the 1st day of February next, that they
will make good to him his forty shillings per month, by such
addition to the pay he shall receive from the State or the Uni-
ted States as shall make said pay sufficient to purchase as much
Provisions as forty shillings would have done in 1774."
A tax of three pence on a pound was laid on the List of
1779, one half to be paid in Wheat Flour, Rye Flour, and
Indian Corn. Captain Abraham Bradley and Leman Stone
were appointed Receivers of the Flour and Corn.
Jan. 18, 1781. — It was voted to divide the town into classes
for the purpose of procuring the requisite number of recruits ;
and the Selectmen, together with Captain Abraham Bradley,
Captain John Osborn, Ensign Edward Phelps and Dr. Seth
Bird, were appointed a Committee for that purpose.
March 26, 1781. — Nine Foot soldiers and two Horsemen are
required of this town, in addition to those already in the field ;
and the necessary steps were taken to raise them.
July 9, 1781. — " Voted, That the men belonging to this
town, lately detached for a term of three months by special
order of the Captain General, agreeable to a resolve of His
Excellency the Governor and Council of Safety of the 19th of
June, founded on an earnest Requisition of His Excellency
General Washington for eight luuidred men, <fec., have and
receive out of the Town Treasury, by the 1st of January next,
each the sum of twenty shillings in silver, or other equivolent,
for each month he shall be in actual service agreeable to such
detachment."
September 18, 1781. — " Captain Miles Beach was chosen
Receiver of Clothing and Provisions on the 2s. 6s. tax payable
in December next ; and Leman Stone was chosen Receiver of
such part of said tax as shall be, delivered to him."
January 3, 1782.—" Voted, That the Town Treasurer be
desired to procure the order or orders drawn by the Commit-
tee of Pay Table in favor of this town, for Bounties on raising
recruits in the year 1781 , now in his hands and office, to be
exchanged for small orders to the same amount ; and to de-
126 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
liver out tliirty pounds thereof to each of the respective classes,
taking projDcr receipts therefor."
February 25, 1782. — " Voted, to raise ten men for State
Service or tlie Regiment of Guards for Horseneck, as required
by Act of Assembly, by dividing the town into classes on the
List of 1781."
Captain Abraham Bradley, Colonel Bezaleel Beebe and Cap-
tain Lynde Lord, were appointed a Committee for that pur-
pose.
" Voted, That ten men be added to the above Committee,
whose business it shall be to notify the respective classes to
meet at the tira<3 and place by them appointed, to proceed in
raising recruits as aforementioned, viz.,
For the 1st class. Ensign Edward Phelps.
" •'2d " Ozias Lewis.
" " 3d " Benjamin Peck, Jr.
" " 4th " Elihu Harrison.
" " 5th " Epliraim Smedley, Jr.
" " 6th " Leaming Bradley.
" " 7th " Ensign Jonathan Wright.
" " 8th " Lieutenant David Stoddard.
" " 9th " Captain Alexander Catlin.
" " 10th " Lieutenant Timothy Skinner.
" Voted, That eacli non-commissioned officer and soldier
that is or shall be detached out of this town into actual ser-
vice, the current year, shall receive twenty shillings per month
for the time he shall thus continue in actual service on such
draft, or procure a man to serve for him ; and that the Select-
men draw orders on the Treasurer accordingly."
March 25, 1782. — " Stephen Stone, Elijah Griswold and
Benjamin Kilbourn, having lately been assessed on examina-
tion by the Civil Authority and Selectmen, agreeable to law,
for each a son gone to the enemy, and having requested a
hearing in Town Meeting, and being heard accordingly, the
question was proposed relative to said Stone in particular ;
and the town by vote did not discharge said Assessment.
Whereupon, it being late, and other business requiring atten-
tion—adjourned till Thursday the 28th, at 10 o'clock P. M."
TOWN VOTES, 127
At an adjourned Meeting, the vote in the case of Stephen
Stone was reconsidered, and lie was released from his assess-
ment. In the other cases mentioned, the assessment was con-
firmed.
April 2, 1782. — " Messrs. Timothy Skinner, Moses Sey-
mour and Abraham Bradley, were appointed a Committee to
make enquiry whether any of the Deserters from the Army
belonging to this town, and not accounted as part of the quota
of the town in the late returns of the army, have joined or are
likely lo join the army in consequence of the General's Pro-
clamation ; and whether this town is not overrated by a mis-
take in the Report of the Committee for ascertaining deficien-
ces," &c.
" In Town Meeting, 16th October, 1783 — Captain Moses
Seymour, Moderator — it was Voted, That the i)resent Select-
men-adjust the claims of the non-commissioned officers and
soldiers who lately served in the Eight Battalions of this State
as part of the quota of this town and claim a grant of twenty
shillings j)er month agreeable to a vote of this town passed
April 15, 1777 ; and having by agreement with said claimants,
or otherwise, ascertained the sum to them respectively due, to
divide each man's sum into three equal parts, and give certi-
ficates thereof in behalf of the town, payable at three different
periods, viz., on the 1st days of January, 1784, 1785 and 1786
— the last to be on interest ; which certificates shall be paid
by tlie Treasurer according to the tenor of them, the one half
of each in money, and the other half in provisions at the mar-
ket price ; and that the Selectmen for the time being make
three Town Rates for that purpose, viz., in the years 1783,
1784 and 1785, to be collected by the Collectors of Town
Rates for those years respectively, in December annually, and
paid into the Town Treasury and kept distinct from all other
Town Rates or Monies, Orders and Accounts, whatsoever."
It will hardly be expected that I should here detail the par-
ticular acts and services of our citizens during the important
period covered by this and the preceding chapter. A more
appropriate place for this, is in the Biographical Sketches
which will be found in another part of this volume. In gen-
128 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
eral terms, it may be remarked, that througli the entire war
Litchfield was represented in the persons of one or more of
her sons, on the Committee of Safety, in the Council of State,
and in the Continental Congress. At the regular session of
the Legislature in May, 1780, the Representatives from this
town were Andrew Adams and Jedediah Strong ; the former
was chosen Speaker, and the latter Clerk, of the House. Ma- '
jor Moses Seymour commanded a Litchfield Company of Cav-
alry at the capture of Burgoync. Colonel Beebe was, during
the latter part of the war, chief in command of the troops raised
for the defense of our sea-coast. General Wolcott, General
David Smith and Colonel Tallmadge, were active and energetic
officers from the commencement to the close of hostilities.
Colonel Sheldon, commander of the celebrated corps of Cav-
alry known in history as " Sheldon's Regiment of Horse," had
been for some twenty years a resident of Litchfield, and his
troops were raised almost exclusively in this vicinity. Cap-
tains Seymour, Stanton and Wadsworth, of this town, com-
manded companies in this corps — Captain Stanton being
at the same time Paymaster of the regiment. Colonel
Tallmadge was one of Sheldon's most efficient Majors. This
regiment was Washington's favorite corps, and continued to act
under his immediate direction till the Treaty of Peace was
signed — constituting at once his messengers, his body-guard,
and his agents for the accomplishment of any enterprise, how-
ever desperate. Captain Morris, also of this town, command-
ed one of the companies of the " forlorn hope " at the Seige
of Yorktown. Indeed, the citizens of Litchfield were found
at the head of their battalions or in the ranks in nearly all the
great battles of the Revolution, including those of German-
town, Trenton, Princeton, Long Island, and Stoney Point.
The following interesting incidents, (copied from HoUister's
" History of Connecticut," vol. ii. pp. 390, 391,) will serve as
an illustration of the character of the clergy of that period :
" When the whole country was in a state of alarm at the
intelligence that Lord Cornwallis, with a large fleet and ar-
mament, was approaching the American coast. Colonel Tall-
madge happened to pass through Litchfield with a regiment
FATHER champion's REVOLUTIONARY PRAYER. 129
of cavalry. While there, he attended public worship with
his troops on Sunday, at the old meeting-house that stood up-
on the village green. The occasion was deeply interesting
and exciting. The Rev. Judah Champion, then the settled
minister of the place — a man of great eloquence and of a high
order of intellectual endowment — in view of the alarming crisis,
thus invoked the sanction of Heaven :
" Oh Lord ! we view Avith terror the approach of the enemies of
thy holy reHgion. Wilt thou send storm and tempest, to toss them
upon the sea and to ovorwelm them upon the mighty deep, or to scatter
them to the uttermost parts of the earth. But, peradventure, should
any escape thy vengeance, collect them together again, O Lord ! as in
the hollow of thy hand, and let thy lightnings |)lay upon them ! We
heseach thee, moreover, that thou do gird up the loins of these thy
servants, who are going forth to fight thy battles. Make them strong
men, that "one shall chase a thousand, and two shall put ten thousand
to flight." Hold before them the shield, with which thou wast wont in
the old time to protect thy chosen people. Give them swift feet that
they may pursue their enemies, and swords terrible as that of thy De-
stroying Angel, that tliey may cleave them down when they have
overtaken them. Preserve these servants of thine. Almighty God !
and bring them once more to their homes and friends, if tliou canst
do it consistantly with thine high pui'poses. If, on the other hand,
thou hast decreed that they shall die in battle, let thy Spirit be pres-
ent with them and breathe upon them, that they may go up as a sweet
sacrifice into the courts of thy temple, where are habitations prepared
for them from the foundations of the world."
In the course of the revolutionary struggle, Litchfield was
visited by most of the })rincipal officers of the army. In one
of the letters from Colonel Adams to General Wolcott, dated
at Litchfield, May 6, 1777, the writer says — " While I am
writing, a Prussian General has arrived in town on his way
to headquarters, said to have proper credentials." This is
understood to have been Count Rocliambeau, who came to
this country early in the year 1777. General La Fayette
passed at least one night in this village, while en route toward
the Hudson with a train loaded witli provisions and stores for
the French Army. On this occasion he lodged in the south
front room of the Judge Reeve House in South street. On
the evening of Saturday, August 2od, 1780, General Wash-
ington arrived here, on his way from Hartford to West Point,
and was (according to Mr. Gibbs,) entertained at the hospit-
17
130 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
able mansion of General Wolcott, in South street. He spent
the night in the village, and on the following morning pro-
ceeded westward, arriving at West Point about 11 o'clock on
Monday morning. It was at this time that he discovered the
treason of Benedict Arnold, who commanded at that post.
"Washington's suite, among whom were Hamilton and Meade,
were with him on the occasion referred to.*
Nearly a year later, Washington again passed through this
town, as appears from the followmg extract from his Diary :
" May 18,1781. — Set out this day for an interview at Weth-
ersfield, with the Count de Rochambeau and Admiral Barras.
Reached Morgan's Tavern, forty-three miles from Fish kill
Landing, after dining at Colonel Vanderberg's. 19th. —
Breakfasted at Litchfield, dined at Farmington, and lodged at
Wethersfield, at the house of Mr. Joseph Webb."
It is more than probable that the commander-in-chief was
in Litchfield a third time. Onthe first visit above referred to,
(if the dates given at tlie time, in the Hartford Courant, are
correct,) he lodged here on a Saturday night, and took his de-
parture for the Hudson on Sunday morning. Our venerable
fellow-townsman. Captain Salmon Buel, well remembers to
have seen Washington on one of his visits to this town, at
wliich time he is very sure he spent the nig]it at the Gould
House, in North street, then occupied as a tavern by Mr. Sam-
uel Sheldon. At all events, he went there in the morning,
with about fifty of his school-fellows, for the jjurpose of seeing
the renowned commander. A company of horse-guards were
drawn up before the house, waiting for him ; but, as he was
not ready to start, the guards rode down North street, and
for a considerable distance out West street — returning in a
short time to the Gould House. The General now came out,
mounted liis horse, and the cavalcade proceeded down South
street — perhaps te enable him to pay his respects to the Wol-
cotts. Captain Buel is certain this was not on a Sunday
morning.
*See Gibbs' Adm's. of Washington and Adams, vol. i. p. 17 ; also, Hollister's Hist,
of Conn , vol. ii. p. 3S7.
Washington's visits to litchfield. 131
The late Rev. Truman Marsh informed George C. Woodruff,
Esq., that in one of his visits to this town, Washington put up
at the Kilbourn House, in North street, it then being an inn
kept probably by Captain AVilliam Stanton. This house is
still standing, between the Tallmadge Place and the residence
of the late Dr. Samuel Buel.
Several incidents connected with Washington's visits to
Litchfield have been preserved. " A ludicrous story is told on
this subject," writes Judge Boardman, of New Milford. "While
Washington was riding through the west part of Litchfield, at
the head of his retinue, a man named demons sallied out with
a square bottle of rum in his hand, and addressed him some-
what after this style — " Great and glorious Washington ! will
you condescend to take a dram with such a poor dog as I am ?"
The General, with his habitual dignified courtesy, took the
bottle and put it to his lips, to the immense gratification of his
enraptured admirer, who always believed he had drank with
General Washington."
The following anecdote has been before published : A staid
farmer residing in the upper part of Beach street — well known
by the sobriquet of " Uncle App" — set out for the East Mill
on horseback, with a load of grain. He was a true patriot,
and loved the very name of Washington. On reaching the
County House corner, he was informed that Washington had
just left the village, and the procession was pointed out to him
in the distance. In an instant. Uncle App's horse was seen
dashing at full speed to the westward, the bags bounding at
every jump, and the long skirts of the rider's overcoat stream-
ing in the wind. Gaining the head of the procession, he con-
fronted the leader face to face. " Are you General Washing-
ton ?" he eagerly asked. " I am, sir," was tlie reply. " God
Almighty bless your Excellency .'" was the emphatic response
of the farmer, as he wheeled hi» horse — and the next moment
he was quietly jogging toward the Mill.
I recently submitted this incident, as here given, to Captain
Buel, who knew Uncle App intimately. He assures me that
the story is correct except in one important particular, viz.,
that the officer with whom he had the interview was not Gen-
132 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
cral Wasliiiigton, but one of his attendants — perhaps the Cap-
tain of the Guard ; and that in fact lie did not see Washington
at all ! If Captain B. is correct in this, (and he is not likely
to be mistaken,) the event doubtless took place at the time
referred to on page 130, when the Guard paraded through
West street before Washington was ready to join them.
It is stated in the Appendix to the Rev. Isaac Jones' Cen-
tennial Discourse, preached in this town in 1845, that once
when Washington passed through Litchfield, his soldiers, to
evince their attachment to him, threw a shower of stones at
the windows of the Episcopal church, which then stood about a
west of the Court House. He promptly reproved them, say-
ing— " I am a Churchman, and wish not to see the church
dishonored and desecrated in this manner."
It is a well known fact that during the war which had now
closed so auspiciously, the American Army received frequent
and valuahle accessions by desertions from the British ranks.
Two English soldiers, named Robert Morris and Richard Mor-
ris, at one time applied for admission into the corps command-
ed by Captain Beebe of this town. They were accordingly
enrolled as members of his company, and proved to be most
excellent soldiers. It so happened that on one occasion they
were about to engage in battle with the very regiment from
which they had deserted. As a guard was to be left behind
to protect the baggage. Captain Beebe, well knowing what
their fate would be should they be taken prisoners, proposed
that they should remain for that purpose. They begged to
be excused from such an inglorious service — preferring to
fight^ and declaring that they did not intemd to be taken. They
did fight, and the English captain under whom they had for-
merly served, was among the prisoners who fell into the hands
of the Americans. On the return of peace, Richard Morris
settled in this town, and here for many years pursued his trade
as a weaver. Being a bachelor, he built himself a little house,
and lived entirely alone. In his latter years he became in-
temperate. He was found dead in his bed, August 24, 1806.
The verdict of the Jury of Inquest was — " His death was oc-
casioned by drinking too large a draft of spirituous liquor,
JOHN I. GATTA, THE HESSIAN. Ic3
taken iutentioiially from his own hand." The fatal bottle,
containing about half a gill of brandy, lay on his breast, round
the neck of which one hand was clasped, the other being placed
on the bottom. John I. Gatta, a Hessian soldier, also became
a permanent resident of Litchfield. He was a native of Hesse
Castle, in Germany, and the only son of a wealthy baker, to
which business he was also bred. With many others, he was
pressed into the military service by order of the reigning
Prince, who had stipulated to furnish soldiers to King George
of England, at so much per head, to be employed against the
colonies. Gatta was soon put to the work of baking for the
troops. He seems to have resolved from the first never to
fight against America ; but an incident occurred before his
arrival on our coast, which doubtless confirmed this resolution
and hastened his desertion. He was a young man of spirit,
and quite unaccustomed to the discipline which prevailed in
the army. On being insulted by a subaltern officer, he sud-
denly raised a glass bottle which he held in his hand, filled
with vinegar, and broke it over the head of the offender. For
this breach of order, he was sentenced to receive five hundred
lashes — which sentence was subseqaently executed, though he
was accustomed to say the flogging " didn't hurt much."
On a certain night, while the ship in which he was brought
over was lying at anchor near New York, Gatta quietly low-
ered a small boat into the water, paddled himself ashore, en-
listed into a New York regiment, and served his adopted
country faithfully during the remainder of the war. As al-
ready stated, he settled in this town ; and here, in 1791, he
married Sarah, daughter of Mr. Oliver Collins and grand-
daughter of the Rev. Timothy Collins. His descendants arc
now among our most respected people. Mr. Gatta was a mark-
ed character, and somewhat eccentric. He had been so long
in the service as to acquire habits of military precision and
promptness, and a soldier's proverbial indifference to death.
Said he — " When the Lord calls John I. Gatta, I shall answer,
' Here ." " Alas ! — he heard the roll-call long ago, which
summoned him from a world of vicissitude and trial to the
land unseen. He died in this town in 1837, aged 81 years.
134 HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
Towards the close of life, he tliouglit and talked much of his
native land and of the friends of his youth ; and sometimes
told, with much emotion, how, after his imyn-essment, his
mother, having pleaded in vain for his release, followed the
press-gang for a distance of twenty miles, that she might have
the mournful satisfaction of bidding her son farewell !j
John Glass, William Barrell, Henry Poulson, James Glass
and Adam Tilford, all British soldiers in the revolution, be-
came residents of this town, and some of them died here, leav-
ing families.
-,^''
^^.
f^'
^y/7^^ aci'f^9icru4'
CHAPTER VIII.
MEN OF THE REVOLUTION.
The historic names of the Revolutionary Period most inti-
mately associated with Litchfield, are those of Ethan Allen,
Oliver Wolcott, Elisha Sheldon, Andrew Adams, Bezaleel
Beebe, Moses Seymour, Jcdediah Strong and Tapping Reeve.
This chapter will be mainly devoted to brief biographical
sketches of these eminent and useful men.
• General ETHAN ALLEN, the Hero of Ticonderoga, was
born in Litchfield, January 10, 1737-'8. He was the eldest,
child of his parents — Joseph and Mary (Baker) Allen — who,
when Ethan was about two years old, removed to the adjoin-
ing town of Cornwall. The subject of this sketch spent his
youth and early manhood in Cornwall and Salisbury ; and
about the year 1765, emigrated to the "New Hampshire
Grants," as they were then called — a wild, mountainous region
lying between Lake Champlain on the west and the Connecti-
cut river on the cast, and extending from the Massachusetts
line northward to the Canadas. This territory was claimed
alike by the governments of New Hampshire and New York
— a fact which led to a fierce and long continued struggle be-
tween the settlers and Governor Tryon of the latter Province.
The hardy and resolute pioneers banded themselves together
under the name of the " Green Mountain Boys," chose Allen
as their commander, and waged a war of extermination
against all intruders from New York. This contest continued
until the attention of both parties was diverted by the more
important events which immediately preceded the Revolution.
By this time, Allen was famous throughout the North. When,
136 HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
therefore, the seizure of tlie British Fortresses on Lake Cham-
plain was secretly resolved upon by the whigs of Massachusetts
and Connecticut, Colonel Allen was, by common consent, se-
lected as the leader of the hazardous enterprize. In another
part of this volume, I have referred to this subject, and can
here only give it a passing notice. In the twilight of a peace-
ful May morning, in 1775, the hero, followed by a little band
of trusty soldiers, entered the fortress of Ticonderoga, and
thundered at the door of the commander, demanding the in-
stant surrender of the garrison. " By what authority do you
demand it ?" asked Captain Delaplace, as he stood trem-
bling before the giant apparition. " In the name op the
GREAT JaHOVAH AND THE CONTINENTAL CONGREsS !" responded
Allen, at the same time threatening the Captain with instant
death if his demand w^as not forthwith complied with. There
was no alternative. With a countenance and manner not to
be mistaken, Allen stood with his drawn sword, ready to exe-
cute his threat. The garrison were at once surrendered as
prisoners of war, and all the arras, ammunition, provisions,
&c., contained in the fort, fell into the hands of Allen. The
capture of Crown Point by Colonel Warner, on the following
day, gave the whigs complete possession of Lake Champlain.
Colonel Allen now visited the Provincial Congress of New
York and the Continental Congress at Philadelphia, and was
received with marked consideration by both of those illustri-'
ous ])odies. He was admitted to the floor of each, and per-
mitted to detail his plan for the conquest of Canada. His
plan was approved, and he was commissioned as a Colonel in
tlie Continental Army. In September following, he made an
unsuccessful attack upon Montreal, was taken prisoner, carried
to England, and confined in Pendennis Castle. As Ticonder-
oga had long been a famous place in that country, the renown
of his exploit had preceded him thither. On his arrival at
Falmouth, so great was the curiosity to see him that crowds
of people thronged the highways, house-tops and rising grounds
in the vicinity — the officers being compelled to force their way
through the throng, for a mile, with drawn swords. He was
dressed in a fawn-skin jacket, an underdress and breeches oi
ETHAN ALLEN. 137
sagatha, worsted stockings, coarse shoes, and a red worsted cap.
On ship board he was treated with great severity, being a part
of the time hand-cuffed and imprisoned in a dirty cell. When
angry, his rage was terrible. Once, on being insulted by a
petty officer, he twisted off, icith his teeth, a ten-penny nail
with which his shackles were fastened ! During the spring of
1776, he was brought back to America — but was detained in
New York as a prisoner of war, until May 6, 1778, when he
was exchanged for Colonel Campbell. After repairing to
headquarters, and offering his services to General Washington,
Allen visited the Grants, (or Vermont,) were his arrival was
announced by the discharge of cannon, and other demonstra-
tions of joy. The newly organized State of Vermont appoint-
ed him to the office of Major-General and commander-in-chief
of the State militia, and sent him as a special delegate to the
National Congress. He was also elected a Representative to
the Legislature — a post to which he was repeatedly re-elected.
Aside from several pamphlets which had their origin in the
controversy with New York, Allen published a Narrative of
his Captivity in a volume of 200 pages, and a theological work
entitled " The Oracles of Reason,^'' in which he attempts to
subvert the doctrines of Christianity. His writings are bold,
artful and egotistical, and, though sometimes crude and unpol-
ished, evince talents of a high order.
The following anecdote (indicating that Allen in reality had
very little faith in his own system of divinity,) is contained in
a note to page 409, volume ii, of President Dwight's " Travels
in New England and New York :"
" Dr. Elliot, who removed from Guilford in Connecticut, to
Vermont, was well acquainted with Colonel Allen, and had
made him a visit at a time when his daughter was very sick
and near to death. He was introduced to the Library, where
the Colonel read to him some of his writings with much self-
complacency, and asked — " Is not that well done ?" While
they were thus employed, a messenger entered and informed
Colonel Allen that his daughter was dying, and desired to
him. He immediately went to her chamber, accompanied by
Dr. Elliot, who was desirous of witnessing the interview. The
18'
133 HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
wife of Allen was a pious woman, and had instrncted her
daughter in the principles of Christianity. As soon as her
father appeared at her bed-side, she said to him — ' I am about
to die ; shall I believe in the principles you have taught me,
or shall I believe in what my mother has taught me V He
became extremely agitated ; his chin quivered ; his whole frame
shook — and after waiting a few moments, he replied — ' Be-
lieve what your mother has taught you.'' "
While Allen was on parole in New York, a British officer of
honorable rank sent for him to call at his lodgings. On his
arrival, the officer told him that his fidelity, though in a
wrong cause, had won the good opinion of Lord Howe, who
was disposed to show him favor. He, at the same time, held
out to him brilliant prospects of promotion and money, and
large tracts of land either in Connecticut or Vermont at the
close of the war. Allen replied, that if by faithfulness he had
recommended liimself to General Howe, he should be loth by
unfaithfulness to forfeit the General's good opinion ; and as
to the lands, he regarded the offer not unlike that made by
Satan to Christ, who promised him " all he kingdoms of the
world," when in fact " the old devil didn't own an acre !" The
officer thereupon sent him away as incorrigable.
Jared Sparks, LL. D., (late President of Harvard College,)
in his Biography of the subject of this sketch, says — " There
is much to admire in the character of Ethan Allen. He was
brave, generous and frank — true to his country, consistent and
unyielding in his purposes, seeking at all times to promote the
best good of mankind — a lover of social harmony, and a deter-
mined foe to the artifices of injustice and the encroachments
of power. Few have suffered more in the cause of freedom, few
have borne their sufferings with a firmer constancy or a loftier
spirit. His courage, even when approaching to rashness, was
calm and deliberate. No man probably ever possessed this
attribute in a more remarkable degree. He was eccentric
and ambitious, but these weaknesses, if such they were, never
betrayed him into acts dishonorable, luiworthy or selfish. So
rigid was he in his patriotism, that, when it was discovered
that one of his brothers had avowed tory principles and had
ETHAN ALLEN. 180
been guilty of a correspondence with the. enemy, he entered
a public complaint against him in his own name, and peti-
tioned the Court to confiscate his property in obedience to the
law. His enemies never had cause to question his magnanim-
ity, or his friends to regret confidence misplaced or expecta-
tions disappointed. He was kind, benevolent, humane and
})lacable. In short, whatever may have been his peculiarities,
and however these may have diminished the weight of his in-
fluence and the value of his public services, it must be allowed
that he was a man of very considerable importance in the
sphere of his activity, and that to no individual among her
patriot founders is the State of Vermont more indebted for
the basis of her free institutions and the achievement of her
independence, than to Ethan Allen."
This is certainly a high compliment, coming from the source
it does. The theological writings of Allen, however, were not
calculated to render him popular with the good people of New
England. Preachers, poets and critics joined in a furious cru-
sade against him, to all of which he affected the utmost con-
tempt. Soon after the publication of his " Oracles," alluding
to the anticipated attacks of the clergy, (in a letter to a friend,)
he says — " I defy the whole artillery of hell-fire." The follow-
ing piece of satire from the pen of Dr. Lemuel Hopkins, (him-
self for some years a resident of Litchfield,) is preserved in
Dr. Elihu Hubbard Smith's " Collection of American Poetry,"
which was printed at Litchfield, by Collier & Adam, in 1792 :
" Lo, Allen, 'scaped from British jails,
His tushes broke by biting nails,
Appears in hyperborean skies.
To tell the world the Bible lies.
See him on Green Hills north afar.
Glow like a self-enkindled star,
Prepared (with mob-collecting club,
Black from the forge of Beelzebub,
And grim with metaphysic scowl,
AVith quill just plucked from wing of owl,)
As rage or reason rise or sink,
To shed his blood, or shed his ink.
Behold, inspired from Vermont dens,
The seer of anti-Christ descends.
To feed new mobs with hell-born manna
In Gentile lands of Susquehanna ;
And teach the Pennsylvania quaker
High blasphemies against his Maker.
Behold him move, ye staunch divines !
140 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
His tall head bustling through the pines ;
All front he seems, like wall of brass,
And brays tremendous as an ass.
One hand is clenched to batter noses,
While t'other scrawls 'gainst Paul and Moses !"
On the 23d of June, 1762, Allen married Mary Bronson
of Woodbury, who died in 1784. Their children were — Jo-
seph, Loraina, Lucy, Mary Ann, and Pamela, Loraina died
young, and was the subject of the anecdote just given.
General Allen died of apoplexy, on his estate at Colchester,
Vermont, February 12, 1789, aged 51 years. A splendid
monument, forty feet in height, (to be surmounted by a colossal
statue of the hero,) has recently been erected to his memory
at Burlington, by the Legislature of Vermont.
The Honorable ELISHA SHELDON, a native of Lyme,
and a graduate of Yale College in the class of 1730, became a
resident of this village in 1753, and here spent the remainder
of his life. He was an Associate Judge of the Court of Com-
mon Pleas for Litchfield County from 1754 to 1761 ; at which
latter date he was elected a member of the Council, or Upper
House, in which distinguished body he sat until his decease —
a period of eighteen years. He was also chosen a Representa-
tive by the freemen of this town at ten semi-annual elections.
Mr. Sheldon was equally conspicuous in the civil and ecclesi-
astical affairs of the town, and was often called upon to pre-
side at our town meetings. He also, for a period of eighteen
years, held the office of County Treasurer. An active patriot
in the revolution, he was not unfrequently appointed by the
Legislature, and by his fellow-citizens, on important commit-
tees, having for their object the advancement of the common
cause. He died in the midst of the great contest. His re-
mains rest in the West Burying-Ground, beneath a marble
tablet, on which is inscribed the following epitaph : " This
Monument is erected to the Memory of the Hon. Elisha Shel-
don, Esq., who departed this life September the first. Anno
Domini 1779, in the 79th year of his age. A Gentleman of
extensive genius and Liberal Education, called in early life to
various public employments, both Civil and Military, all which
he executed with punctuality and fidelity ; much respected
for his Generosity and Benevolence, and greatly lamented by
OLIVER WOLCOTT. 1-11
his extensive Acquaintance. In early life he made a profes-
sion of the Christian Religion, and till his Death adorned it
by a very Exemplary Conversation. ' Blessed are the Dead
who die in the Lord.' "
The wife of Mr. Sheldon was Elizabeth Ely, by whom he
had five children, viz., Lois, (m. Lynde Lord, Esq., Sheriff,)
Mary, Thomas, Samuel, and Col. Elisha, (commander of the
2d Regiment of Light Dragoons in the Continental Army.)
The Honorable OLIVER WOLCOTT, LL. D., (son of
His Excellency, the Hon. Roger Wolcott, Governor and Chief
Justice of Connecticut,) was born in Windsor, December 20,
1726, and was graduated at Yale College in 1745. In early
manhood, he commanded a company of volunteers in the
Northern Army, in the war against the French. Having pur-
sued the usual course of medical studies, he established him-
self as a physician in Goshen, and was residing there at the
date of the organization of the County of Litchfield, October,
1751. The Legislature appointed him the first High Sheriff
of the new County, and he immediately took up his abode in
this village, and continued to reside here iintil his decease, a
period of forty-six years. He was thus but twenty-five years
of age when he became a resident of Litchfield, and hence his
fame, subsequently achieved, as really belongs to us as if he
had been born in the town. In 1752, he erected the "Wolcott
House" in South street, which is still one of the most desirable
residences in the place, though more than a century has rolled
by since its foundations were laid. With a commanding per-
sonal appearance, dignified manners, a clear and cultivated
intellect, and a character for integrity far above the reach of
suspicion, it is not to be wondered at that he became a favorite
of the people with whom his lot was cast. Besides holding the
office of Sheriff for over twenty years, he was chosen a Repre-
sentative to the Legislature five times between the years 1764
and 1770, inclusive ; a member of the Council or Upper House
from 1771 to 1786 ; Judge of the Court of Probate for the
District of Litchfield from 1772 to 1795 ; Judge of the Court
of Common Pleas from 1773 to 1786 ; and member of the
Continental Congress from 1775 to 1784, (except two years.)
142 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
He was one of that memorable band of patriots and sages who,
on the 4th of July, 1776, affixed then- names to the Declaration
of Independence. In the early part of the war of the Revolu-
tion, Judge Wolcott was commissioned as a Brigadier General,
and Congress appointed him a Commissioner on Indian Affairs
for the Northern Department, with General Schuyler and oth-
ers. In May, 1779, he was elected by the Legislature and com-
missioned by Governor Trumbull, as Major General of the
Militia of Connecticut, to succeed General James Wads worth,
resigned. In these important and responsible stations, he
rendered the country essential service. On the field, in the
camp, at the rendezvous, in the apartments of the Commissary
of Supplies — in fact, wherever he could render himself useful
— he was found, ever prompt in planning and efficient in exe-
cuting. At the same time he was an active member of the
Committee of Safety ; and, when at home, was equally zealous
and conspicuous in the local affairs of the town — officiating as
Moderator, Selectman, Committee-man, &c. Indeed, no man
in the State, at this period, discharged so many and varied
public duties. A considerable share of .the reputation which
Connecticut acquired for promptness in furnishing men and
means for the army, is due to General Wolcott. Certainly,
to no other individual in the western counties could Governor
Trumbull or General Washington appeal for aid, with the cer-
tainty of success, as to him.
In 1786, he was elected to the office of Lieutenant-Governor
of the State, and was annually re-elected for a period of ten
years. In May, 1796, he was chosen Governor — the highest
executive office in the gift of the people of his native State.
To this distinguished position he was again elevated at the an-
nual election in 1797. He was now seventy years of age. His
naturally robust constitution began to feel the weight of care
and responsibility which had been so long pressing upon it.
He departed this life at his residence in Litchfield, December
1, 1797, aged 71 years. A sermon was preached at his funeral
by the Rev. Azel Backus, D. D., which was published. Gov-
ernor Wolcott had long been a professed disciple of Christ, and
his faith in the efficacy of the great Atonement sustained him
OLIVER WOLCOTT. 143
in the decisive hour. ." With all the splendor of his station
and his well-earned fame," says Dr. Backus, " he was not
ashamed to pray in the expressive language of the Publican,
' God be merciful to me a sinner,' and to make the most feel-
ing declarations of liis own personal unworthiness. For several
days before his death, the shattered remains of a once noble
mind and vigorous body were devoted continually to God.
His very breath appeared to be prayer, until, after many
painful struggles, he fell asleep. 0 Death ! in what a mortify-
ing light doth thy power put the little glory of this diminutive
world ! To what insignificance do earthly honors dwindle,
before the grandeur of eternity ! Nevertheless, the death of
such a character is a grievous loss, especially under the present
threatening aspects of Divine Providence, and the perilous sit-
iiation of the country. Such tried characters are the " salt of
the earth," and the pillars of our national existence. The
presence, firmness, counsels, prayers and example of such
Fathers, should be esteemed the " chariots of Israel and the
horsemen thereof." But God governs the world, and his will
is done. Let it be the solemn care of each one of us, to make
a profitable improvement of the frown of Heaven in this remo-
val."
Joel Barlow, in his great national poem, The Columbiad,
tlius refers to his zeal and efforts in the cause of Independence :
"Bold WoLCOTT urged the all-important cause,
With steady hand the solemn scene he draws :
Undaunted firmness with his wisdom joined,
Nor kings nor worlds could warp his steadfast mind."
No resident of the town ever achieved a more honorable and
wide spread fame, than Oliver Wolcott — and no name in the
historic annals of the Town and State in which his life was
passed, is more earnestly and affectionately cherished, than
his. His family have been and are distinguished — some for
high political stations, others for enterprize and wealth, some
as professional or literary men — and all, for their liberality,
sterling moral qualities, and exalted social position. His
mortal remains rest in our East Burying-Ground, surrounded
by those of many of his descendants and kindred.
144 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Governor Wolcott married Lorana Collins, of Guilford, in
1755 ; she died, April 19, 1794. Their children were, Oliver,
(who died in infancy, and was interred in the West Burying-
Ground ;) Oliver, 2d, (see Biographical Notes ;) Lorana, m.
Hon. William Moseley, M. C, of Hartford ; Mary Ann, m.
Lieut. Gov. Goodrich, of Hartford; Frederick, (see Biograph-
ical Notes.) Ursula Wolcott, (a sister of Gov. W. next older
than himself,) married Governor Matthew Griswold, and was
the mother of Governor Roger Griswold. Thus, her father,
brother, husband, son, and nephew, were all Governors of
Connecticut ! — a fact which cannot, probably, be said of any
other lady who ever lived in the State or United States.
The Honorable ANDREW ADAMS, LL. D., (a native of
Stratford, and a graduate of Yale College in the class of 1760,)
commenced the practice of law in Litchfield in 1774, and
continued to reside here until his death, which took place in
November, 1797. He rose rapidly in public esteem, and was
chosen a Representative in October, 1776 — a post to which he
was nine times re-elected. A friend of the Revolution, he took
a prominent part in its favor in our town meetings, and by his
influence and efforts did much to promote the cause of the
patriots in this vicinity. He rose to the rank of Colonel, and
was for a short time in actual service in the war. In 1779,
and again in 1780, he was Speaker of the House of Rep-
resentatives— the other member from Litchfield, (the Hon.
Jedediah Strong,) being at the same time Clerk of the House.
Colonel Adams was a member of the Council -of Safety two
years, a member of the State Council nine years, a member of
the Continental Congress three years, a Commissioner of the
Northern Congresses at Hartford and Providence in 1780 ;
an Associate Judge of the Superior Court four years, and
Chief Justice from 1793 until his decease. He was also for a
few years a Deacon of the First Church in this town.
Tlie body of the subject of this sketch rests beneath a marble
tablet in our West Burying-Ground. His epitaph is as fol-
lows: " Li Memory of the Hon. Andrew Adams, Esq., Cliief
Judge of the Superior Court, who died November 27, 1797,
in the 63d year of his age. Having filled many distinguished
COLONEL BEEBE. 145
offices with great Ability and Dignity, he was promoted to the
highest Judicial Office in the State, which he held for several
years, in which his eminent Talents shone with uncommon
Lustre, and were exerted to the great Advantage of the Public
and the honor of the High Court in which he presided. He
made an early Profession of Religion, and zealously sought to
promote its true Interests. He lived the Life and died the
Death of a Christian. His filial Piety and paternal tenderness
are held in sweet Remembrance."
Mrs. Eunice Adams, his wife, died June 4, 1797, aged 53
years.
The " Litchfield Monitor" mentions it as a sad and singular
coincidence, that Governor AVolcott and Chief Justice Adams
.... '
(the two highest official dignitaries of the State,) both resi-
ding in the same village and on the same street, should be ly-
ing apparently at the point of death at the same time. Gov-
ernor Wolcott survived his distinguished neighbor about three
days only.
The children of Judge Adams were — 1. ANDREW,Jr., who m.
Annis Canficld, of Sharon, and had two daughters, Cornelia,
(wife of Dr. Tomlinson and mother of the Hon. Theodore E.
Tomlinson, of New York city;) and Maria C, (wife of tb.e
late Hon. Henry F. Tallmadge. Andrew Adams, Jr., died in
Litchfield in the year 1806. 2. Samuel, died also in L., un-
married. 3. Elijah, (see Biographical Notes.) 4. Eunice,
m. Mr. Masters. 5. Polly, m. (perhaps) Nathaniel Lamson."
6. Lydia, m. Elias Cowles, merchant, of Litchfield, afterward
of New York ; the Hon. Edward E. Cowles, late Judge of the
Marine Court in that city, is their son.
Colonel BEZALEEL BEEBE was born in Litchfield, April
28, 1741, and spent his life in his native town, except when
absent in the service of his country. At the age of seventeen
he enlisted as a soldier in the French War, and marched with
Captain Evarts' company to Fort George, where he was for
some time stationed. He was afterward a member of Major
* I have Si id that Judge Adams commenced the practice of law in Litchfield in
1774. The indications are, that he became a resident here some eight or ten years
earlier than that date. An Andrew Adams of this town was a Commissioner on two
estates at early as 1766 ; and was chosen a Lister in 1772 and 1773.
19
146 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Rogers' celebrated corps of Ran'gers, an account of whose ex-
ploits was published in London by their heroic commander ;
and, with Rogers, he participated in the engagement which
resulted in the capture of Major Israel Putnam. During much
of the succeeding year, he was stationed at Fort Miller under
Captain Whiting. In 1760, he enlisted in a company com-
manded by Captain McNeile, of Litclifield, and continued in
the service for three years — having in the mean time been
chosen one of the Sergeants of the company. On the 11th of
July, 1764, he was married to Elizabeth, daughter of Captain
John Marsh, of this town, and settled on the paternal home-
stead, north of Bantam Lake, which is still owned and occupied
by his descendants. On tlie breaking oat of the revolutionary
contest, he was once more summoned to the field — having been
commissioned as a Lieutenant iif the first recruits raised for
that service, April, 1775. He forthwith marched with his
company to Boston, and tliencc, after a short detention, to
Crown Point, where he was transferred to the Quartermaster's
Department. From this time onward, he was in actual ser
vice (except while detained as a prisoner of war,) until the
spring of 1781, at which time he applied for and i-eceived an
lionorable discharge, and once more returned home. As his
distinguished public services have been frequently referred to
in the preceding pages, it will not be expected that I should
repeat them here. Suffice it to say, that lie rose to the rank
of Colonel in the Continental Army, and enjoyed in an eminent
degree the confidence and respect of his superiors in office as
well as of the soldiers under him. VVliile chief commander
of the coast guard of this State, lie performed the duties and
received the pay of a Brigadier General. A commanding figure,
and a peculiar dignity of character and manner, united to an
innate kindness of heart and a courage equal to any emergency,
contributed to render him an efficient and popular officer.
He was chosen a member of the House of Representatives
for the first time in the autumn of 1781, as a colleague of the
Hon. Jedediah Strong, and was re-elected during the two suc-
ceeding years. In 1788, the Constitution of the United States
was ratified, and th@ general government re-organized. In
JEDEDIAH STRONG. 147
1792, '93 and '95, Colonel Beebc was returned to the Legisla-
ture. He also served his fellow-citizens as a Selectman both
before and after the war ; and through life, was much em-
ployed by the Court of Probate in settling estates of persons
deceased. He departed this life. May 24, 1824, aged 83 — his
widow surviving him about a year. Several of liis revolution-
ary letters, to Governor Trumbull, General Silliman, etc., are
preserved among the " Trumbull Papers" in the Library of
the Mass. Hist. Soc, Boston.
Colonel Beebe had six children, viz., 1. Sarah, d. unm'd.
2. Elizabeth, m. Joshua Garrett, of Litchfield. 3. Rebecca,
m. Reuben Rockwell, Esq., of Colebrook, and had children,
among whom are, the Hon. Julius Rockwell, late U. S. Sena-
tor from Massachusetts, the Hon. Reuben Rockwell, etc.
4. Ebenezer, Major United States Army. 5. James, settled
in Winchester, Conn., where he Avas three times elected a Rep-
resentatives, besides being twice chosen Senator for the 15th
District. In 1837, he was a member of the Corporation of
Yale College. He now resides in Hartford, Trumbull co.,
Ohio. 6. William, settled on the homestead in Litchfield
where he still resides ; besides being seven times a Represen-
tative, he was a Senator in 1845 ; he has also been President
of the Litchfield Mutual Fire Insurance Company, President
of the Litchfield County Foreign Mission Society, &c.
The Honorable JEDEDIAH STRONG was born in Litch-
field, November 7th, 1738, and here spent his entire life. He
graduated at Yale College in 1761, and, with a single excep-
tion, he was the first native of the town who ever received a
collegiate degree. He first studied divinity, but, being early
elected to office, he abandoned the sacred profession for the
more congenial pursuits of pettifogger and politician. With
in fact little to recommend him to the good opinion of his fel-
low-townsmen, he acquired and long maintained a political
ascendency second only to that of Wolcott and Adams. An
imperious will and an affectation of power, and a happy facul-
ty of being at the same time " all things to all men," no doubt
contributed to the result. A diminutive figure, a limping gait,
and an unpleasant countenance, were, however, in some
148 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
measure atoned for by a certain degree of promptness and tact
in the discharge of public business. lie was a good penman,
familar with legal forms, and, though his style was verbose
and complicated, he was much employed, both at home and
abroad, in drafting, compiling and recording the official
transactions of public bodies. He was a Representative at
about thirty regular sessions of the Legislature — at fourteen
of which he was Clerk of the House. In May, 1773, he was
appointed (with Roger Sherman, Eliphalet Dyer, Matthew
Griswold and William Samuel Johnson,) a commissioner to
wait on Governor Penn at Philadelphia, to negotiate relative
to the lands west of the Delaware. In May, 1779, he was ap-
pointed a Delegate to the Continental Congress, in place of the
Hon. Stephen Titus Hosmer, resigned; and was re-appointed
in the October following. He was also an Associate Judge of
the County Court for eleven years, a member of the Council
of Safety, a member of the State Council, and a Delegate to
and Secretary of the Convention which ratified the Constitu-
tion of the United States. He was a Lister six years, a Select-
man thirteen years, and Town Clerk sixteen years. The first
wife of Judge Strong was Ruth Patterson, who died leaving
an only daughter, Ida Strong. In 1788, he married Susan-
' nah, daughter of the Hon. George Wyllys, Secretary of State,
Hartford. The sequel is told in the following extract from
The Monitor, bearing date July 26, 1790 :
" Last Saturday se'nnight, the Hon. Jedediah Strong, Esq.,
a member of the Council of State, and one of the Judges of
the County Court in Litchfield, was arrested upon complaint
of his wife, and brought before Tapping Reeve, Esq., for trial.
The delinquent requested an adjournment that he might pro-
cure counsel, and the Court adjourned to Monday last. At the
time of trial, the concourse of people made it necessary to ad-
journ to the Court House, where, after full enquiry, it appeared
in evidence that the accused had often imposed unreasonable
restraints upon his wife, and withheld from her the comforts
and conveniences of life ; that he had beat her, pulled her hair,
kicked her out of bed, and spit in her face times withovit num-
ber. Whereupon the Judge, after summing up the testimony
in a very eloquent and masterly manner, pronounced sentence
that the delinquent should become bound with sureties for his
JEDEDIAH STRONG. 149
good behavior toward all mankind, and es])ecially toward his
wife, in the penal sum of One Thousand Pounds, and to ap-
pear and answer the charges against him at the next County
Court. Nothing could be more satisfactory tlian this sentence,
among his acquaintances in Litchfield and elsewhere, who
have long known the infamy of his private character, while
his hypocrisy and intrigues have imposed upon the good peo-
pje of the" State at large."
Several subsequent articles appeared in the. Monitor, both
for and against Judge Strong. The trial for divorce came on
in New Haven, before the Council of State, of which the Judge
Avas himself a member, and resulted in granting the prayer of
the petitioner. From this time his career was dovmiDard. He
became a drunkard and a beggar, and the town assisted in his
support. But notwithstanding his degradation, he seems to
have retained to the very last an earnest affection for his
daughter. He left a long Will in her favor, which may be
found on our Probate Records. It is written in his peculiar
style, and is a curiosity— bearing date, March 31, 1801. It
is mainly occupied with pious reflections and counsels addressed
to his daughter. " And finally," he adds, " that worldly
wealth or earthly estate which it hath pleased the Universal
Proprietor to commit to my temporary care and stewardship
on the sublunary, probationary theater, (or the remnant frag- •
ments after so much spoliation of Envy, Covetousness, Op-
pression, or whatever mistake in extreme career of permitted
human vicissitude,) my most mature and deliberate option
and volition is, that disposition be made as follows : I recom-
mend, give and bequeath, to my beloved daughter, Ida Strong,
my Bibles and inferior Orthodox Treatises on Religion and
Morality, or relative or appertaining to Vital Piety or Practi-
cal Godliness, and all other Books, Pamphlets or Manuscripts,
except Romances, if any be left extant, whic^i I have long since,
(though not soon enough,) intentionally consigned or destined
to deserved oblivion in native sliades of chaos." The amount
of his " worldly wealth," as per inventory, was $96 66; while
as an offset to this, claims against him to the amount of a few
hundred dollars, were sent in. His executors were Captain
Thomas Collier (editor of the Monitor,) and Ida Strong. — •
150 HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
Judge Strong died August 21, 1802, aged 64, and was interred
in our West Burying-Ground. No stone marks his grave,
and the precise place of his sepulture is unknown. His daugh-
ter Ida died in Rupert, Yermont, in 1804.
Colonel BENJAMIN TALLMADGE.was born at Brook-
haven, L. I., February 25, 1754. His father, who Jjore the
same name, was the pastor of the church in that place ; and
his mother was a daughter of the Rev. John Smith, pastor of
the church at White Plains. The subject of this sketch grad-
Tiated at Yale College in 1773. While superintendent of the
High School at Wethersfield, in this State, he received a
' Lieutenant's commission, with the appointment of Adjutant of
the Regiment — both commission and warrant bearing date
June 20, 1776. In these capacities he joined the army, and
continued in actual service until the close of the war. On the
15th of December, of the year last named, he received a Cap-
tain's commission in (Sheldon's) 2d Regiment of Light Dra-
goons. As this commission came from General Washington
himself, the honor was conspicuous and highly appreciated.
He was promoted to the rank of Major, April 7, 1777, and
took his station as a field officer of the regiment. A separate
detachment for special services was committed to him several
*times in the course of the war, on which occasions he received
his orders directly from the commander-in-chief. On the
opening of the spring campaign, 1777, General Washington,
foreseeing that General Howe meditated some decisive blow,
directed that all recruits should be sent forward to head-
quarters as fast as they were collected. He also sent a par-
ticular order to Colonel Sheldon (who was at his winter
quarters in Wethersfield,) to send on all the effective men of
bis regiment. Having about men and horses enough for four
companies, they wei-e placed in the best possible order, and the
command given to Major Tallmadge. His own company were
all mounted on dapple gray horses, which, with black strai>s
and l)lack bear-skin holster covers, looked superbly. On his
route to Washington's encampment at Middlebrook, New Jer-
sey, he passed with his troops through Farmington, Litchfield,*
* May not this liave been the time when Father Champion gave utterance to the
remarkable prayer inserted on page 129 ?
COLONEL TALLMADGE. 151
Kent, Peekskill, (where lie crossed the Hudson,) Haverstraw,
Pompton, an'd Morristown — reach hig the headquarters of the
commander-in-chief on the 23d of June. Major TaUmadge
participated in the Battles of Short Hills and the Brandywine,
though, before the latter engagement, the remainder of the
regiment, commanded by Colonel Sheldon in person, had ar-
rived. In the Battle of Germantown, the position of Major
Tallmadge's squadron was at the head of General Sullivan's
division, on the left of the center. In the early part of this
sanguinary engagement, the Americans seemed almost certain
of success ; but the heavy fog which soon enveloped both ar-
mies, prevented them, in some cases, from distinguishing their
friends from their enemies. They were thus thrown into
confusion — a panic ensued — and our men fled in every direc-
tion. By order of General Washington, Major Tallmadge
repeatedly threw his dragoons across the principal thorough-
fare, to check the retreat of the infantry ; but the effort was
ineffectual.
AYhile our army were encamped at Valley Forge in the
gloomy winter of 1777-'8, the Major was stationed with a de-
tachment of dragoons, as an advanced corps of observation
between our army and that of the enemy. In the perform-
ance of his duty, he scorired the country between the Schuyl-
kill and Delaware rivers — a distance of five or six miles — for
the double purpose of watching the movements of the enemy,
and preventing the disaffected from carrying provisions to the
enemy at Philadelphia. While on tliis service, he was attacked,
about two o'clock one morning, by a large body of British
light horse commanded by Lord Rawdon, and after defending
himself resolutely for awhile, effected his escape with the loss
of but three or four men killed and as many more Avounded.
While temporarily halting, soon after, at the " Rising Sun"
Inn, within sight of the British out-posts at Philadelphia, a
country girl arrived from the city, whither she had been sent
with eggs, with instructions to obtain some information res-
pecting the enemy. While she was communicating with the
Major on the subject, the British light horse were seen advan-
ing. In an instant he mounted his horse, when he found the
152 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
poor girl at his side, begging him to protect her. Without a
moment for reflection, he told her to mount behind him, which
she did — and in this way they rode at full speed to German-
town, about three miles.
After taking part in the Battle of Monmouth, and in the
defense of Norwalk, (Conn.,) Major Tallmadge planned and
executed an expedition against the enemy at Lloyd's Neck, on
Long Island. Here was a strongly fortified post, manned by
about five hundred troops — in the rear of which post a large
band of marauders were encam})ed. For the purpose of break-
ing up this band of freebooters, he embarked at Shipan Point,
near Stamford, September 5, 1779, at 8 o'clock in the evening,
taking with him about one hundred and twenty men. The
attack was so unexpected, that nearly the whole party were
captured. Having destroyed the boats and huts of the enemy,
the party re-embarked, with their prisoners, and before day-
light landed on the Connecticut shore, without the loss of a
man.
In the autumn of 1780, Major T. was stationed on the lines
in Westchester county. Returning from below to the regi-
ment, then near Northcastle, on the evening of September 23d,
he was informed that a prisoner had that day been brought in,
by the name of John Anderson. On enquiry, he learned the
particulars of his capture by three militia-men, Paulding, Van
Wert and Williams. He further ascertained that Lieutenant-
Colonel Jameson, (who, in the absence of Colonel Sheldon,
then had command of the dragoons,) had sent the prisoner to
General Arnold's headquarters, accompanied by a letter of in-
formation respecting his capture. At the respectful but ear-
nest solicitations of Major Tallmadge, Anderson was brought
back to Northcastle, but Jameson persisted in sending the let-
ter forward to General Arnold. The observation of the Major
soon led him to the conclusion that the prisoner had been bred
to arms, and communicated his suspicions to Lieut.-Colonel
Jameson — requesting him to notice his gait, especially as he
turned on his heel to retrace his course across the room. —
The Major remained with him almost constantly, and became
deeply interested in his new acquaintance. After dinner on
COLONEL TALLMADGE. 153
the 24th, he requested the use of peu, ink and paper, which
were readily granted him. He immediately Avrote the cele-
brated letter to General Washington, in which he acknowl-
edged himself to be " Major John Andre, Adjutant General
to the British Army." This letter he handed unopened to
Major Tallmadge, who read it with deep emotion. The sad
and important sequel of the story is familiar to every reader.
A court martial of fourteen general officers (General Greene
presiding,) adjudged him to be a spy from the enemy, and that,
" agreeable to the law and usage of nations, he ought to suffer
death." At 5 o'clock in the afternoon of October 2d, Major
John Andre died on a gibbet, in the presence of an immense
concourse of sympathizing people. His military suit having
arrived from New York, he was executed in full uniform.
Major Tallmadge walked with him from his place of confine-
ment to the foot of the scaffold, where he bade him an affec-
tionate farewell. Years subsequently, he wrote — " I became
so deeply attached to Major Andre, that I can remember no
instance where my affections were so fully absorbed in any
man. When I saw him swinging under the gibbet, it seemed
for a time as if I coidd not support it. All the spectators
seemed to be overwhelmed by the affecting spectacle, and the
eyes of many were suffused in tears."
In the autumn of 1780, Major Tallmadge requested permis-
sion of the commander-in-chief to attempt the destruction of
the enemy's works at Smith's Manor, Long Island — but the
General regarded the expedition as too hazardous to be under-
taken. Major T. did not, however, abandon the project, but
secretly visited Long Island for the purpose of making obser-
vations and gaining information. On his return, he made an-
other application, and obtained the consent of General Wash-
ington. On the 21st of November, with one hundred dis-
mounted dragoons, he embarked at Fairfield — crossed the
Sound, and march toward Fort George, on south side of Long
Island. The garrison was surprized and captured — the works
were demolished, and the houses, shipping, and an immense
quantity of stores, were burnt. Some valuable articles of dry-
goods were made up in bundles and bound upon the shoulders
20
164 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
of the prisoners, who were pinioned two and two. The victors
then re-crossed the island to their boats, with their prisoners
and booty. While the main body was tluis on the march,
the Major selected eight or t*en men, mounted them on horses
which he had taken at the Fort, and made a digression for the
purpose of destroying the king's magazine at Coram — which
he accomplished — and, in the course of an hour and a lialf,
joined his associates at a place where he had ordered them to
halt. The whole company arrived in Fairfield — only one per-
son engaged in the expedition having been seriously wounded.
Among the prisoners taken were one lieutenant-colonel, one
lieutenant, one surgeon, about fifty rank and file, and a host
of others in the garrison. For this daring and successful ex-
ploit. Major Tallmadge received the public thanks of the com-
mander-in-chief and of the Congress of the United States.
He continued in actual service until the close of the war,
and was engaged in several other desperate enterprizes. Our
article, however, is already too long, and we must close the
narrative of his revolutionary services with the relation of a
single additional fact. From 1778 to 1783, an important and
confidential correspondence was carried on between General
Washington and Major Tallmadge, a large part of which is still
in possession of the Tallmadge family.
In November, 1782, he purchased of Mr. Thomas Sheldon,
(for the sum of <£800,) the premises in North street in this vil
lao-e, still known as The Tallmadge Place. In the purchase-
deed of this property he is styled " late of Long Island, now of
the Continental Army." He continued in the public service
about a year lo»ger, when the army was disbanded, and the
subject of this sketch retired to private life with the rank of
Colonel. Before separating, the officers of the army formed
themselves into a national association called The Society of the
Cincinnati., of which Washington was chosen the first Presi-
dent. At the same time, a similar Society was formed for each
State. Colonel Tallmadge was chosen tlie first Treasurer and
subsequent President of the Connecticut Society.
On the 16th of March, 1784, Colonel Tallmadge was united
in marriage to Mary Floyd, (daughter of General William
COLONEL TALLMADGE. 155
Floyd, of Mastic, L. L, a Signer of the Declaration of Inde-
pendence,) and at once took up his residence in this village.
Here he engaged extensively and successfully in merchandiz-
ing until 1801, when he was elected a member of the Congress
of the United States. For a period of sixteen years, (by re-
election every two years,) he held his seat in that distinguished
body. Once more retiring from public life, he devoted
himself with even more than his usual zeal, to the advancement
of every good cause. For many years he was an officer and
liberal benefactor of various charitable institutions and socie-
ties ; while his contributions to the needy in his own town
were much more frequent and extensive than were known to
the public.
On the 3d of June, 1805, Mrs. Mary Tallmadge died in
Litchfield, leaving five sons and two daughters, viz., William
S., Henry F., Maria, Frederick A., Benjamin, Harriet W., and
George W. May 3d, 1808, Colonel Tallmadge married Maria,
daughter of Joseph Hallett, Esq., of New York. He died at
his residence in this village, March 13, 1835, in the 82d year
of his age. The Sermon preached at his funeral by the Rev.
Dr. Hickok, was publislied.
Colonel Tallmadge possessed a tall and portly figure, and a
courtesy and dignity of manner, which seem to have belonged
peculiarly to the era in which he lived. At the same time he
was as accessible to the humblest as he was the highest in the
land. All loved and reverenced him. The old soldiers of the
Revolution were wont to seek his assistance and advice — and
they were ever received with cordiality, and their wishes
attended to. Officers, also, of every grade, frequently visited
him, and never failed to meet with a hospitable welcome.
There are persons yet living, who recollect the interesting and
affecting interview between him and Lafayette, at New Haven,
where they met in 1824, after a separation of more than forty
years. They embraced and wept, as they recurred to the try-
ing scenes through which they had passed and the many chan-
ges which time had wrought, since, in the ardency of youth,
they had parted on a distant battle-field.
156 HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
The beautiful homestead where Colonel Tallmadge spent
more than fifty years of his life, adjoins that where his com-
rade in arms, Colonel Sheldon, spent his childhood, youth and
early manhood.
The Honorable TAPPING REEVE, LL. D., became a
resident of Litchfield in 1772, and spent more thsmjifty years
of his life in this town. A son of the Rev. Abner Reeve of
Southold, Long Island, he was born in that place in October,
1744. He graduated at the College of New Jersey in 1763,
and spent four years as a tutor in that institution. On the 24tli
of June 1773, he married Sally Burr, a daughter of President
Burr of New Jersey College, and a grand-daughter of the re-
nowned President Edwards. So long as she lived, she was an
invalid, and for many years her husband spent a large portion
of his time in ministering to her wants. " Though his domes-
tic afflictions withheld him from the active scenes of the Rev-
olution," says Dr. Beecher, in his Funeral Discourse, "none
entered more deej)ly into his country's cause than he. He
shared with his generation all the vicissitudes, hopes, fears,
self-denials and losses, of that arduous day. He possessed,
though in early life, the confidence, and participated in the
counsels, of the wise and great and good men of that era ; and,
at the moment of greatest dismay, when Washington fled with
his handful of troops through the Jersies, and orders came for
New England to turn out en masse and make a diversion to
save him, the Judge was among the most ardent to excite the
universal movement, and actually went in the capacity of an
officer to the vicinity of New York, where the news met them
of the victories at Trenton and Princeton, and once more
Washington and the country were delivered." At one time,
he had the honor of entertaining at his house in this village.
General LaFayette and some of his brother officers, who were
passing through this region on important public business. In
1784, he opened his celebrated Law School, of which he was
the Principal for nearly forty years. Though fitted to shine in
public life, and though official honors were always witliin his
reach, he seems rather to have shunned than sought promotion.
He was once elected a Representative, and once only a mem-
CHIEF JUSTICE REEVE. 157
oer of the Council. He was an enthusiast in his profession,
and had indeed but little taste for anything else of a secular
nature. In 1798, he was appointed a Judge of the Superior
Court and of the Supreme Court of Errors. Here his jDCCuliar
talents found ample scope for their full development. Until
the adoption of the Constitution of 1818, all our Judges were
elected annually by the Legislature. Judge Reeve gave such
universal satisfaction, that he continued to be re-appointed from
year to year until 1814, when he was promoted to the office of
Chief Justice. On reaching the age of seventy years, he retired
to private life — still, however, devoting much of his time to
his favorite Law School. He died here, December 13, 1823,
in the 80th year of his age. He was eminently distinguished
for his piety and learning. In seasons of revival, and indeed
at all times, no layman in the parish was so elficient as a co-
laborer with the pastor, as Judge Reeve.
Mrs. Sally Reeve died soon after the war, leaving an only
son, Aaron Burr Reeve. The latter, died in Troy, N. Y., in
1809, leaving an only son, Tapping Burr Reeve, who received
his first degree at Yale College in 1829, and died the same
year. With him the family of Judge Reeve became extinct.
April 80, 1798, the Judge married a second wife — Betsey
Thompson — who survived him a few years.
Major MOSES SEYMOUR was born in Hartford, July.
23, 1742, and became a resident of Litchfield in early man-
hood. Early in the war of the revolution, he was commissioned
as Captain of the troop of horse attached to the 17th regiment
of Connecticut militia. In June, 1776, Elisha Sheldon, Esq.,
of Salisbury, was appointed Major-Commandant of the Fifth
Regiment of Cavalry ; and the subject of this sketch received
the appointment of Captain of one of the companies of this
regiment. Though Major Sheldon was subsequently trans-
ferred to the command of the, Second Regiment of Dragoons
in the continental army, Captain Seymour retained his connec-
tion with the Fifth until the close of the war.
In April, 1777, on the occasion of the Danbury Alarm, Cap-
tain Seymour mustered his troops and proceeded forthwith to
assist in repelling the invason of Governor Tryon. He parti-
158 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
cipated in the skirmishing which followed the retreat of the
enemy toward the Sound. At the capture of Burgoyne, in
October of the same year, he was once more at the head of
his favorite corps, and did good service in that most important
and decisive engagement. A day or two after the terms of
capitulation were signed, the American officers invited Bur-
goync and his associate-officers to dine with them. At this
interesting festival Captain Seymour was present. His ac-
count of the conversations that took place on the occasion, be-
tween the conquerors and the conquered, and particularly his
minute recital of the toasts given on both sides, are still re-
membered with interest by his neighbors. The utmost cour-
tesy and good feeling prevailed on the part of the principal
officers, and the responses to the sentiments given were hearty
and enthusiastic. At length, General Burgoyne was called
upon for a toast. Every voice was for the moment hushed into
the deepest attention, as he arose and gave — " America and
Great Britain against the world T^ The response which fol-
lowed may be imagined.
During the night which succeeded the final battle between
Generals Gage and Burgoyne, Captain Seymour watched with
a British officer who had been wounded and carried off the
field in the midst of the engagement. Soon after he had en-
tered the room, the officer, who had not before learned the
fate of the day, enquired eagerly of Captain S. as to the result.
On hearing that the British had been defeated, he remarked
— " Then the contest is no longer doubtful ; America vnll be
independent. I have fought earnestly for my king and country,
but the contest is ended !" The kindness of Captain Seymour
to him, an enemy, deeply affected him. He thanked him again
and again ; and finally offered him his watch and other rewards,
which were of course refused. The gallant American did all
in his power to relieve the distresses and soothe the mind of
his charge — but his wounds proved fatal.
During the greater part of the war. Captain Seymour was
stationed at Litchfield as a Commissary of Supplies for the
army. In this department of the public service, his zeal and
efficiency were conspicuous, and duly appreciated by Governor
MAJOR SEYMOUR. 159
Tr.umbull, General Wolcott, and others. Few men in this
section of the State labored as untiringly or accomplished more.
I have elsewhere stated that Litchfield was a depot for military-
stores and provisions. Captain Seymour was employed not
only in the purchase of these articles, but assisted in storing
and guarding them while here, and in superintending their
transportation wherever they might be ordered by the com-
petent authorities. In September, 1781, we find him with
his dragoons, by order of General Wolcott, guarding a train
of wagons loaded with supplies for the French Army, from
Litchfield to Fishkill.*
With the Peace of 1783, the subject of this sketch retired
to private life with the rank of Major. In 1789, he was elec-
ted by his fellow-citizens to the office of Town Clerk — a post
to which he was annually re-elected during the remainder of
his life, a period of tldrty-seven years ! This uninterrupted
bestowment of an office upon one individual for so long a
time, is unprecedented in the history of the town. He was
also a member of the House of Representatives at sixteen
regular sessions, commencing with the October session, 1795.
In the early part of the present century, Major Seymour was
occasionally a candidate of the political party with which he
was connected, for the Council of State. In 1805 he received
7,426 votes, and at the election of the succeeding year he re-
ceived 7,671 votes, for that office.
Major Seymour was a gentleman of the old school, retaining
to the last the manners and costume of that now obsolete class.
On the 7th of November, 1771, he married Molly, daughter
of Colonel Ebenezcr Marsh, and had five sons and one daugh-
ter— the latter alone surviving at the present time. Of these
_■:
* The French Commissary, Jujardy N. Granville, (who appears to have pos-
sessed a very imperfect knowledge of our language,) left the following curious
acknowledgment of the service, which is on file in the Comptroller's Office :
" We, Commissary of War, employed in the Arm}' of Rochambeau, Certified
that the Detachment composed of 24 Dragons or Light Horses commanded by
Mr. Moses Seymour, capitaine, came on with our teams and stores from Litchfield.
We certified beside that the said Capitaiu Moses has taken a great care for the
security of our convoy and bagage while he stay with us till this place.
JUJARDY N. GRANVILLE.
Fishkill, Sep 22, 1781.''
160 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
five sons, one became distinguished as a financier and Bank
President ; two became High Sheriffs of this County ; one was
a Representative, Senator, and Canal Commissioner, in tlie
State of New York ; and one Avas for twelve years a United
States Senator from Vermont — the most remarkable family of
sons ever raised in Litchfield. The daughter, Clarissa Sey-
mour, married the Rev. Truman Marsh, for many years Rec-
tor of St. Michael's Church in this town.
Major Seymour died at his residence in this village, Sept.
17, 1826, in the 84th year of his age. His remains rest in our
East Burying-Ground.
There is yet another name which I would mention with
respect in this connection — that of ELISHA MASON, the last
of the Revolutionary Soldiers in Litchfield. With a patriot-
ism as unquestioned and a zeal as ardent as can be claimed for
the most renowned of our heroes, he performed the humbler
duties of his sphere as fiithfuUy as they, though all uncheered
by the hope of fame or pecuniary reward. He died in this
village, June 1, 1858, in the 100th year of his age. I fre-
quently had occasion to consult him on matters of local inter-
est, and found his mind clear and his memory retentive almost
to the last. He seemed like one who had come down to us
from a distant generation. In the last interview I had with
him, (January 18, 1858,) he assured me that he well remem-
bered the first meeting-house ever built in this town, and which
was demolished when he was about three and a half years old.
He also recollected the old fort which occupied the site of the
present Court House, as well at that which stood on Chestnut
Hill — l)oth of which were erected as a defense against the In-
dians. In the great struggle for Independence, he had periled
his life in the cause of his country. And what was his re-
ward ? On one occasion, at the expiration of a term of service,
he was discharged on the Hudson, and paid off in continental
currency. Starting homeward on foot, he reached Danbury,
where he spent the niglit. In the morning, on attempting to
settle his bill, his continental money was refused. He offer-
ed larger and still larger sums — and finally tendered bills to
the amount of forty dollars, for his lodging and meals ; but the
ELISHA MASON. 161
landlord refusod to take the ciirreiicy on any terms. Mr.
Mason was finally compelled to pawn his rifle to cansel his in-
debtness. As his wages were but eight dollars per month, he
thus offered the avails of five months' services for his keeping
for twelve hours ! But though so poorly requited by the
country for which he had fought, tlie soldier lived to enjoy the
blessings of a free government, and in bequeathing them as a
rich legacy to his posterity, he felt himself abundantly repaid
for all his toils and privations.
Ten years ago, many an active participant in the stirring
events of that great contest which resulted in the freedom of
America, still lingered with us ; and many a story of personal
adventure was told, at many a fire-side circle, to eager listeners.
Now, alas ! the lips of those venerable men are forever sealed.
Henceforth their chivalric deeds will live only in uncertain
Tradition, or in the results which an all- wise Providence shall
cause to flow from them. While enjoying the rich blessings
which they assisted in achieving and transmitting to us, let us
not fail to cherish their memory and emulate their potriotism.
21
CHAPTER IX.
PEOGRESS AND IMPROVEMENT.
Though descendants of the puritans, and perhaps somewhat
puritanic themselves, the first settlers of Litchfield and
their immediate successors were not of that class who pro-
scribed wholesome amusement and recreation. Their man-
ners and customs were indeed simple. Industry and frugality
were regarded as essential requisites. As already intimated,
every man was from necessity a soldier and a hunter ; and
the duties incumbent upon him in these capacities were full
of bold adventure and healthful excitement. Where game
was so abundant, a hardy and athletic people like our fathers
could not have wanted for sport. Our streams and lakes, too,
with their teeming abundance, afforded pleasant and profita-
ble employment for such as had no better business.
Husking-Parties, Apple-Bees, Raisings, Quiltings, Weddings,
Spinning-Parties, and Balls, were made occasions of hilarity
and social good-cheer — though generally conducted with rus-
tic simplicity and the strictest regard to economy. Mr. Mor-
ris says — " When young people of both sexes assembled to-
gether for amusement, they employed themselves principally
in dancing, ivhile one of the company sang. The first use of
the violin in this town for a dance, was in the year 1748. The
whole expense of the amusement, although the young people
generally assembled, did not exceed one dollar, out of which
the fiddler was paid ! When this instance of profusion took
place, parents and old people exclaimed that they should be
ruined by the extravagance of the youth. In 1798," continues
the same writer, " a ball, with the customary entertainment
and variety of music, cost about $160, and nothing was said
about it. It is not to be inferred from this difference, that
our youth had become more vicious than formerly ; but it
Xl^gtyDCHi-nim £ro» a cteyoQ sketch ty R^^l-'^^tlt f"^<^ '^ *" P°««sion of Geo.G.bbsis,,
,!a woEjCOTt.
i^"^^^^^
THE STOLEN BRIDE. 163
serves to sliow a material change in the wealth and character
of the people."
Tradition yet tells of the festivities and merry-makings that
took place on Litchfield Hill, when, a short time before the
Revolution, a gallant young officer of the militia led to the
hymenial altar the accomplished daughter of one of the mag-
nates of the town ; and how, in the midst of their rejoichigs,
the bride was mysteriously spirited away, and borne on horse-
back to a quiet inn in Northfield ; with what fleetness, on that
bright autumnal evening, the bridegroom and his attendants
rushed over tlie eastern hills to the rescue; how, on tlieir arri-
val, the little inn was suddenly illuminated, the violin struck
up a merry tune, the dance commenced, and the festive-board
was spread ; and how, an hour or two later, the cavalcade,
like a triumphal procession, returned to the village. Long-
years thereafter, when the wars with the mother-country were
over and a grateful people were enjoying the liberties which
that bridegroom, on the battle-field and in the council-chamber,
had assisted in achieving, the venerable couple would some-
times tell, to their children and their children's children, the
story of the " stolen bride."
The establishment of the Litchfield Law School by Judge
Reeve, in 1784, and the Litchfield Monitor (a weekly news-
paper,) by Mr. Thomas Collier, during the same year, affords
indication of the growing importance of the town, and at the
same time tended to give it a wider reputation. The intelligence,
and social position of its inhabitants, no less than the beauty
of its location, drew hither the wealthy and distinguished from
abroad — some, for the purpose of enjoying the congenial quiet
of the place ; others, to participate in its superior educational
advantages. New and more fashionable pastimes were now
introduced among our people. In May, 1785, several Theat-
rical Performances came off in this village, the principal char-
acters being sustained by students of Yale College. The Mon-
itor says — " Distinguished Merit and literary Ability were so
evidently conspicuous and amply displayed on the Occasion,
as would have done Honour to a British Theatre." In July,
1787, Mr. Pool, an American Circus-Rider, announced that he
164 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
would give an exhibition "in Mr. Buel's Orchard, Litchfield."
In November, 1789, Shakspeare's Plays were performed in
" Mr. Buel's Bali-Room," by a company of strolling actors ;
and about the same time, " the Surprizing Performances of
the celebrated John Brannan and wife, from Dublin, in the
Curious and Ingenious Art of dancing on tiie Slack- Wire,"
was advertized.
Toward the close of the last century, the Hon. Messrs. Tracy
and Allen, both of Litchfield, were in Congress at the same
time with the Hon. Chauncey Goodrich, whose wife was a
Litchfield lady — a daughter of Governor Wolcott. During
the same period, also, the Hon, Oliver Wolcott, Jr., of this
town, (then a member of the Cabinet,) was residing at the Feat
of government with his family. Thus, the talent and beauty
of Litchfield, (both of which had by this time become famous,)
formed quite an element in the society of the national capital.
An anecdote of General Tracy has been preserved, commemo-
rative at once of Mrs. Wolcott's attractions and his own pecul-
iar wit. Mr. Liston, the then British Ambassador, who was
thoroughly English in his ideas, on some occasion said to him,
" Your countrywoman, Mrs. Wolcott, would be admired even
at St. James." " <Sw*," retorted the Senator from Connecticut,
she is admired even on Litchfield Hill .'"
Of the object of " Sabbath-Day Houses," I have already spo-
ken. The Rev. Henry Ward Beecher, in an address on the
anniversary of the Landing of the Pilgrims, delivered in New
York, December 20, 1853, alluded incidentally to the opposi-
tion made to the introduction of stoves into the old meeting-
house in Litchfield during the ministry of his father. This
allusion called up divers reminiscences of the fierce war that
was waged on the occasion. A New York correspondent of
the Enquirer thus wrote — " When the heresy was broached,
you probably recollect tl\e intense excitement that prevailed
on Litchfield Hill. The parties were formed — the Stove Party
and the Anti-Stove Party. For a time the storm raged fear-
fully ; but the Stove Party at length triumphed, and on the
following Sabbath the stove was in its place." The writer
then proceeds to give the results. One maiden lady, of the
THE STOVE CONTROVERSY. 165
anti-stove party, " commenced fanning herself, and at length
apparently swooned away" — declaring, when she recovered,
that " tlie heat of that horrid stove had caused her to faifit."
The Cleveland (Ohio) Herald copied Mr. Beecher's remarks,
adding — " We have a Litchfielder right by us, who remembers
all about that stove, and its advent into the old meeting-house
on Litchfield Hill" — and the editor proceeds to give the recol-
lections of the gentleman referred to. The editor of the Hart-
ford Daily Courant appended the following remarks :
" Now we have a word to say in the matter. Violent opposition
had been made to the introduction of a stove into the old meetins:-
house, and an attempt made in vain to induce the Society to purchase
one. The writer was one of seven young men who finally purchased
a stove, and requested permission to put it up in the meeting-house
on trial. Afier much ditHculty, the committee consented. It was
all arranged on Saturday afternoon, and on Sunday we took our seat
in the Bass, rather earlier than usual, to see the fun. It was a warm
November Sunday, in which the sun shone cheerfully and warmly
on the old south steps and into the naked windows. The stove stood
in the middle aisle, rather in front of the Tenor Gallery. People
came in and stared. Good old Deacon Trowbridge, one of the most
simple-hearted and worthy men of that generation, had, as Mr. Beech-
er says, been induced to give up his opposition. He shook his head,
however, as he felt the heat reliected from it, and gathered up the
skirts of his great-coat as he passed up the broad isle to the Deacon's
Seat. Old Uncle Noah Stone, a wealthy farmer of the West End,
who sat near, scowled and muttered at the effects of the heat, but
waited until noon, to utter his maledictions over his nut-cakes and
cheese at the intermission. There had in fact been no fire in thu
STOVE — the day being too warm. We were too much upon the
broad grin to be very devotional, and smiled rather loudly at the funny
things we saw. But when the editor of the village paper, Mr. Bunce,
came in, (who was a believer of stoves in churches,) and with a most
satisfactory air, warmed his hands by the stove, keeping the skirts of
his great-coat carefully between his knees, we could stand it no longer,
but dropt invisible behind the breastwork. But the climax of the.
whole was, (as the Cleveland man says,) when Mrs. Peck went out
in the midst of the service ! It was, however, the means of reconcil-
ino- the whole society ; for, after that first day, we heard of no more
opposition to the warm stove in the meeting-house."
On referring to the Society'^s Records, I find the subjoined
reference to the transaction mentioned in the article from the
Courant :
166 HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
" The following representation in writing, viz.,
" An Association of Young Men, inhabitants of the Town of Litchfiekl, desire
the First Ecclesiastical Society, by their Committee, to accept of a Stove and
Pipe "for their meeting-house. They request tlie Committee would consult the
Society and inform the undersigned where they would wish to have it placed.
•^ JOHN P. BRACE, )
HIRAM WALLACE, > Committee.
L. GOODWIN, )
Litclifield, Oct. 18, 1816."
— having been presented to the Society's Committee, and the Society
liavingbeen informed by their said Committee that they had accepted
the Stove and Pipe referred to in said representation — Whereupon,
Voted, That the Society's Committee be, and they are, instructed
and directed to designate the phice in Avhich the said Stove shall be lo-
cated, and give the necessary directions regarding the mode in which
the said stove, and the pipe thereto attached, shall be erected.
Attest, J. W. HUNTINGTON, Clerk."
Ill nothing, perhaps, has there been a greater change durmg
the last seventy-five years, than in the mode of traveling and
carrying freight. Until the close of the Revolution, traveling,
especially in the inland towns, was performed almost exclusive-
ly on horseback. The saddle and the pillion were regarded
by the upper and middle classes as articles of special conven-
ience and gentility — much more so than carriages and coaches
now are. Horses were trained to carry double ; and it was not
an uncommon thing to see father, mother, and at least one
child, mounted on the some horse at the same time. Long
journeys were sometimes taken with this tripple load. For
years after the Old Forge, in the western part of this town,
was erected, the ore for its use was brought from the iron-
mines of Kent in hags slung across the backs of horses ; and
the bar-iron manufactured there, was bent in the form of ox-
bows, and carried to market on horseback ! Ox-carts and
ox-sleds were common, and journeys of hundreds of miles wer
hot unfrequently made in these tedious vehicles. Many of the
ambitious and hardy young men of this town, who emigrated
to Vermont, to the Genesee Country, and New Connecticut,
went on foot — each carrying a pack, in which was enclosed,
as an indispensable part of his outfit, a new axe. Some who
thus went, became men of wealth and distinction.
There was no public conveyance between Litchfield and the
neighboring or more remote towns, for a period of nearly sev-
POST-RIDERS, MAILS, ETC. 1G7
enty years after the settlement of the place commenced, ^^s
early as 1766, it is true, Mr. William Stanton was a post-rider
between Litchfield and Hartford ; but as it is understood that
his journeys were performed on horseback, the inference is
that he did not make a business of carrying passengers ! ^ In-
deed, during the revolution, all regular communication be-
tween the interior towns was suspended, even where it had
before existed ; but expresses were sent hither and thither, as
the exigences of the hour might demand. Litchfield was on
the great inland route from Boston to New York, as well as
from Hartford to West Point, so that the amount of travel
through the town was very great.
The establishment of a weekly paper in this village, in 1784
seemed to call for some method of obtaining and circulating
the " news." There was not a Post Office or a Mail Route in
the County of Litchfield ; and how the subscribers contrived
to get their papers, may well be regarded as a mystery by the
publishers of our day. Li 1789, Jehiel Saxton, a post-rider
between- New Haven and Lenox, passed through this town on
his route, at stated intervals. In 1790, another of this inter-
esting class of primitive letter-carrier's and errand-men, com-
menced his long and lonely ride over the almost intermin-
able succession of hills, between " the Litchfield Court-House"
and the city of New York — leaving each place once a fortnight.
That was a proud day for Litchfield — perhaps for New York
also!
But at length the enterprize of the printer accomplished
what the Government had failed to do. In January, 1791,
the Monitor contained the following announcement :
"Post-Office Establishment. — Tlie Public, particularly
Gentlemen in the Town and Vicinity of Litchfield, have some
time lamented the want of a regular and weekly Intercourse
with the City of Hartford, by a Post immediately from this
Town — are respectfully assured, that a Post in conjunction
with Mr. Isaac Trowbridge, the Rider from New York, will
start from this Office for Hartford regularly, once a week,
commencing on Monday next, the 31st inst. This Establish-
ment has met the Sanction and Encouragement of Mr. Trow-
bridge ; and the Undertakers will be subject to the same Reg-
168 ' HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Illation and Responsibility required by the Postmaster General.
Consequently, every Duty annexed to the Business will be
strictly and pointedly observed.
" And that the Public may be better accommodated, and
derive a safe Repository for their Letters, &c., a POST-OFFICE
is opened in Collier's Printing Office — at which Place all Des-
patches, to be transmitted through the Medium of either Post,
must be deposited. During the Winter, (and till the 1st of
May next,) the Post from New York will ride once a fortnight,
and arrive on Tuesday Evening, commencing the 5th of the
ensuing month. Those who have Business or Letters are re-
quested to leave their directions at this Office, for New York
on Tuesday, for Hartford on Saturday Evenings, preceding
the days of departure ; as the Posts will positively start at an
early Hour. Letters will be received at this Office for any
part of the United States.
Lilchfield, Jan. 24, 1791."
A memorial of those days may still be seen about half a
mile west of the Court-House, in the highway — a mile-stone
bearing the following inscription, viz. :
" 30 Miles to
Hartford.
102 Miles to
New York.
J. Strong,
A. D. 1787."
Forty and fifty years ago, several of these relics, of red sand
stone, were scattered along the main route through the town-
ship, from east to west; but they have nearly all disappeared.
The one above referred to, is of white marble, and was doubt-
less erected by the Hon. Jedediah Strong, who, at the date
given, resided on the adjacent premises, and who appears to
have been unwilling that an ordinary stone should stand so near
his dwelling. He was evidently quite satisfied with his achiev-
ment, as, in his subsequent advertizements, he designates the
locality of his residence as " near the marble mile-stone,^'' etc.
On the 20th of February, 1792, the President of the United
States approved and signed the Post Office Bill, by which, on
and after the 1st day of June following, a Post Road was es-
tablished from New York to Hartford, via. White Plains,
FIRST POST OPFICK IN LITCHFIELD. 169
Nortlicastle, Salem, Pound Ridge, Ridgeficld, Danbiuy, New-
town, New Milford, Litchfield^ Ilarwiutoii, and Farmington.
A Government Post Office was established in this town during
the same year ; and though for a while the only one in tlie
county, it was not very generally patronized, if we are to
form our opinion from the following and other similar adver-
tizcments :
" LIST OF LETTERS at the Post Office in Litchfield last quar-
ter : Noble Bostwick, New Milford ; Justus Cook, Northbury ; Da-
vid Fancher, Watertown ; Reuben and John Miner, Winchester ; Jon-
athan Werden, Salisbury. B. TALLMADGE, P. M.
Litchfield, Nov. 1, 1792."
Within the half-dozen years next succeeding the latter date,
commenced what may be characterized as The Era of Turn-
pikes and Stage- Coaches — which continued in its glory for
something over forty years. During this period, very much
was done to improve the routes of travel and to facilitate com-
munication of town with town. Turnpike Com})anies were
organized in all parts of the State, and turnpike stock was re-
garded by capitalists as a safe, profitable and permanent in-
vestment. The Litchfield and New Milford Turnpike Com-
pany was incorporated in October, 1797 ; the Litchfield and
Harwinton Company, in October, 1798 ; and the Litchfield and
Canaan Company, in May, 1799. Then followed Straits'
Turnpike, from Litchfield to New Haven, the Litchfield and
Cornwall, the Litchfield and Torrington, and the Litchfield
and Plymouth Turnpikes — so that, in due time, it became
almost impossible to get into or o?/^ o/ our borough without
encountering a toll-gate. Four-horse Stage Coaches gradually
came into use from the time that Turnpikes became general ;
and ultimately Congress enacted that the U. S. Mails should
be thus conveyed on all the principal routes. Litchfield now
became an important centre of travel. Daily lines of Mail
Stages were established between this village and Hartford,
New Haven, Norwalk, Poughkeepsie, and Albany. One after
another. Post Offices were established in all the towns and
principal villages in the County ; notwithstanding which, the
business of the Litchfield Office has been constantly on the
22
170 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
increase. Staging continued to be an extensive and profitable
business in this town, until the opening of the Housatonic
Railroad, in 1837, at which time the Poughkeepsie and Alba-
ny lines were discontinued. Two-horse Mail Wagons have
since run from this village to meet the railroad trains at West
Cornwall and New Milford. In 1843, the Naugatuck Railroad
was completed from Bridgeport to Winsted — running through
the entire length of this township, near its eastern boundary.
Since that time, our only four-horse stage is that running from
the village to the Litchfield Station on the Naugatuck Road.
There are now six Post Offices in this township, viz., those
of Litchfield, South Farms, Milton, Northfield, Bantam Falls,
and Campville. In 1851, an office was established at the
Litchfield Station, called " East Litchfield" — of which Messrs.
William Butler and Charles Carter were successively Post-
masters. It has since been discontinued, A Return from the
General Post Office, published some half-dozen years since,
shows that the yearly receipts at the Litchfield Post Office
exceeded those of any other office in the State, except those
located in the cities.
The following is believed to be a complete list of Postmasters
at the Litchfield Office, from its establishment to the present
time, viz., Benjamin Tallmadge, Frederick Wolcott, Moses
Seymour, Jr., Charles Seymour, George C. Woodruff, Jason
Whiting, Reuben M. AVoodruff, Leverett W. Wessells, and
George H. Baldwin.
The Postmasters for this town, for the year 1858-'9, are —
Litchfield, Geo. H. Baldwin ; South Farms, W. L. Smedley ;
Northfield, John Catlin ; Milton, H. Kilbourn ; Bantam Falls,
L. Kenney ; Campville, J. M. Camp.
ECCLESIASTICAL. 171
CHAPTER X.
ECCLESIASTICAL MATTERS.
FIRST SOCIETY.
In a preceding chapter, I have given witli some particular-
ity an account of the settlement of the Rev. Timothy Collins,
and of the erection of the first meeting-house in this town.
The building was clapboarded, but had neither steeple or
bell. Mr. Morris informs us that at the " raising," all the
adult males residing in the township, sat on the sills at once !
Mr. Collins was ordained as the first pastor of the First Church,
June 19, 1723. There is no evidence, either recorded or tra-
ditionary, which would lead us to suspect that aught but the
most perfect harmony existed between pastor and people, dur-
ing the early part of his ministry. The first inference to the
contrary may be drawn from the doings of a town meeting
held December 25, 1728, when a memorial from Mr. C. was
read, and the consideration thereof '' postponed till the next
meeting" — which, however, was not called until nearly three
months afterward. It appears from the records of the meet-
ing in March, that the memorial had reference to " the dis-
count of money since the agreement was made" between the
parties. It was finally resolved to pay him ten pounds per year
in addition to tlie eighty pounds originally agreed upon as his
salary — " until the town shall see cause to order otherwise."
On the 14th of April 1731, the first vote was passed for
"seating the meeting-house." In the doings of the same meet-
ing occurs the following entry : " Voted, after dark, that Mr.
Collins have the choice of the pews for himself and family."
The peculiar significance of the wording of this vote, will be
understood when taken in connection with a previous vote,
which provided that " no act of the town should stand in force
that was passed after day-light failed to record it.''
172 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
The controversy which began in a dispute concerning the
salary of Mr. Collins, was continued through a long series of
years, and increased in importance and acrimony. Though a
decided majority of the church and society took sides against
their pastor, there was still a respectable minority who sus-
tained him. In 1744, the town voted " not to make any rate
for Mr. Collins under present difficulties." At the same time
a committee was appointed to treat with the pastor respecting
his salary " and absence from the work of the ministry ^ In
December, 1745, a committee was appointed " to eject Mr. Col-
lins from the Parsonage Right." In December, 1750, Mr.
C. was desired " to resign his ministerial office." During the
succeeding month, a committee was appointed to carry a charge
against Mr. C. to the Consociation, " for unfaithfulness in the
ministerial office." To tliis last vote, Serg't. Joseph Mason,
Lieut. Moses Stoddard, and iMessrs. George Marsh, Archibald
McNeile, John Marsh, William Peck, Sylvanus Stone, Asa
Hopkins, and Alexander McNeile, " did protest." Two years
later, a similar vote to the last was offered in town meeting,
and negatived by a decided majority — yeas 13 ; nays 41,
After a ministry in this town of about thirty years, Mr. Col-
lins vacated the pulpit in 1752. Though his pecuniary contest
with the town continued for a few years later, ho seems to
have been not unpopular either as a citizen or civilian. Like
many of the clergy of that day, he had received a medical ed-
ucation, and he continued here as a practicing physician dur-
ing the remainder of his life. He was elected by the voters of
this town to the offices of Lister and Selectman, and was ap-
pointed by the Legislature a Justice of the Peace for Litchfield
County. In 1755, he was appointed a Su.rgeon of one of the
Connecticut Regiments in the Expedition against Crown Point.
He is represented to have been a gentleman of good talents
and stately demeanor, but with manners by no means concilia-
tory or popular. It is worthy of mention, as indicating that
he may have been " sinned against" in his controversy with
the town, that he was successful in the only lawsuit growing
out of it. He died in Litchfield in 1776.
In February, 1753, the town voted a call to the Rev. Judah
Champion, of East Haddam, who had graduated at Yale Col-
SECOND MEETING-HOUSE. 173
lege in 1751. Two thousand pounds, old tenor currency, was
voted as his settlement, and eight hundred pounds, old tenor,
was voted as his yearly salary. Mr, Benjamin Webster was
appointed to visit Mr. Cham})ion, and deliver to him these
votes of the town. Mr. Chami)ion accepted the call, and was
ordained as pastor of the First Cluirch, July 4, 1758,
On the 30th of December, 1760, the town voted to build a
new meeting-house on the Green ; and Mr. Joseph Vaill, Mr.
Alexander McNeile, Deacon Peter Buel, Jacob Woodruff, Esq.,
and Captain Solomon Buel, were appointed a Building Com-
mittee. At the same time, Reynold Marvin, Esq., was desig-
nated as the Town's Agent to apply to the County Court for a
committee to fix the place for said meeting-house ; and Col.
Ebenezer Marsh, Timothy Collins, Esq., and Capt. Elisha
Sheldon, were appointed to wait on the Committee of tlie
Court. The edifice was erected near the site of the old one,
and was 63 feet long by 42 feet wide, with a steeple and bell.
It was completed during the autumn of 1762. The old meet-
ing-house was sold at auction in November of that year — Mr.
Asa Hopkins, Vendue Master.
Mr. Champion proved to be an able and popular minister,
and continued here in the pastoral office until 1798. He died
in this town, October 5, 1810, in his 82d year.
From the organization of the town to the year 1768, all bu-
siness relating to schools and ecclesiastical affairs was transac-
ted in town meeting. The Society of South Farms (or the
Second Society of Litchfield) having been incorporated, the
First Society met for the first time, May 9th, 1768. Elisha
Sheldon, Esq., was chosen Moderator; Isaac Baldwin, Esq.,
Clerk ; Mr. Joshua Garrett, Treasurer ; and Mr. Edward
Phelps, Jr., Capt. Oliver Wolcott and Capt, William Marsh,
Society's Committee. There was little done at these Society's
Meetings, from year to year, e:^cept to appoint officers, Com-
mittees, and Choristers. Now and then we find an entry in
the records of a different character. Thus — December, 1772
— measures were taken for " coloring the meeting-house, and
putting up Electrical Rods.'''' At the same meeting, the Soci-
ety's Committee were directed " not to let the Town's Stock
174 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD,
of Powder and Bali to be stored in said house." Two years
later it'was voted that " the neiv method of Singing" at present
taught by Mr. Lyman," should be introduced into the public
worship of the coi>gregation ; and the singers taught by
Mr. Lyman were granted " the use and privilege of the Front
Seats in tlic Gallery." The sulijcct of the minister's salary
still gave the Society mucli trouble. Mr. Champion complained
of the depreciated and fluctuating currency, as Mr. Collins had
done before him. To obviate this difficulty, the Society, in
1779, voted to give him as his salary for the then current
year, the sum of seventy-five pounds sixteen shillings, money,
" to be paid in the following articles at the usual prices affixed,
viz.. Wheat at four shillings per bushel ; Rye at three shill-
ings do. ; Indian Corn at three shillings do. ; Flax at six pence
per lb. ; Pork at twenty-five shillings per cwt. ; Beef at twenty
shillings do. ; Tried Tallow at six pence per lb. ; Lard at five
pence do ; Oats at one shilling per bushel."
Mr. Champion's successor was the Rev. Dan Huntington,
who, at the time he received the call to settle here, was a tutor
in Yale College. He was ordained in October, 1798. As
he was a gentleman of learning and eloquence, the church
and society were delighted with their new pastor ; and he ap-
pears to have been no less pleased at being settled in such a
place and over such a people. He thus wrote concerning them
— " A delightful village, on a fruitful hill, richly endowed
with its schools, both professional and scientific, and their
accomplished teachers ; with its venerable Governors and
Judges ; with its learned lawyers, and Senators, and Repre-
sentatives, both in the National and State Departments ; and
with a population enlightened and respectable — Litchfield was
now in its glory." During Mr. Huntington's ministry in this
place, a remarkable religious awakening overspread this and
and the adjacent parishes, resulting in the hopeful conversion
of about three hundred persons among the different denomin-
ations of Litchfield. " This town," says Mr. Huntington, "was
originally among the number of those decidedly opposed to
the movements of former revivalists ; and went so far, in a
regular church meeting called expressly for the purpose under
MINISTERS OF LITCHFIELD. 175
the ministry of the venerable Mr. Collins, as to let them know,
by a unanimous vote, that they did not wish so see them. The
effect was, they did hot come. The report circulated, that
Litchfield had " voted Christ out of their borders." It was
noticed by some of the older people, that the death of the last
person then a member of the church, was a short time before
the commencement of our revival." '
Previous to the settlement of Mr. Huntington, the society
voted him a " settlement" of one thousand dollars, and an
annual salary of four hundred dollars ; also, agreeing to con-
tinue to Mr. Champion, during life, a salary of one hundred
.pounds. In December, 1805, a subscription was made of funds
to be placed at interest, for the purpose of adding' two huudved
dollars to the salary of the pastor. It would seem, however,
that notwithstanding these efforts to increase his income, Mr.
Huntington had resolved upon leaving. The Church and
Society, in February, 1807, voted not to concur in his request
that a separation should take place between them. A
Council, however, was called, and the connection amicably
dissolved. In March, 1810, the Society voted a unanimous
call to the Rev. Lyman Beecher, which was accepted, and he
was installed on the SOth of the succeeding May — President
Dwight, of Yale College, preaching the installation sermon.
After a successful ministry in this town of about sixteen years,
he accepted a call from the Hanover-street Church, Boston,
and was dismissed, February 21, 1826. His successor in the
ministry here, was the Rev. Daniel Lynn Carroll, who was
ordained October 3, 1827 ; and was dismissed, at his own re-
quest, March 4, 1829.
In 1827, the Society voted to erect a new church-edifice ;
and Messrs. Frederick Wolcott, Stephen Doming, Salmon Buel,
William Buel and Leonard Goodwin, were appointed a Build-
ing Committee. The House was dedicated on the same day
that the installation of Mr. Hickok took place.
The Rev. Laurens P. Hickok, of Kent, was the next pastor,
having been installed July 15, 1829. During his ministry
here, of about seven years, 21.4 persons united with the church.
Ninety-five of these were added at two communion seasons in
176 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
the autumn of 1831 — being a part of the fruits of the great
revival of that year. In September, 1836, Dr. Hickok having
been elected Professor of Theology in the Western Reserve
College, Ohio, requested a dismission from his pastoral charge,
which was reluctantly granted — and ho was dismissed, Novem-
ber 15, 1736.
June 12, 1838, the Rev. Jonathan Brace, of Hartford, was
ordained as pastor of the church ; and was dismissed, at his
own request, February 28, 1844. During his pastorate of
about six years, not far from one hundred and fifty persons
united with the church.
The Rev. Benjamin L. Swan was installed as the eighth
pastor, October 22, 1846, and closed his labors here, on the
10th of May, 1856 — having supplied the pulpit with much
ability and acceptance for nearly ten years.
The present pastor, the Rev. Leonard Woolsey Bacon, was
ordained, November 16, 1856, on which occasion the ordina
tion sermon was preached by his father, the Rev. Leonard
Bacon, D. D., of New Haven.
Deacons of the First Church, (from 1723 to 1859.) — John
Buel, Nathaniel Baldwin, Benjamin Hosford, Benjamin Kel-
logg, Benjamin Webster, Thomas Harrison, Peter Buel, Moses
Stoddard, Andrew xVdams, William Collins, Ozias Lewis,
Thomas Trowbridge, Andrew Benedict, Frederick Buel, Tru-
man Kilbourn, Charles Adams, Cyrus Catlin, Henry W. Buel,
and Henry B. Bissell.
Clerks of the Society. — Isaac Baldwin, Roger Skinner,
Abel Catlin, Luke Lewis, Samuel Buel, Jabez W. Huntington,
Joseph Adams, Frederick Doming, Samuel P. Bolles, George
C. Woodruff, Sylvester Galpin, Francis Bacon, James G. Bat-
terson, Reuben M. Woodauff, Frederick D. McNiel.
Treasurers of the Society. — Joshua Garrett, Abraham
Bradley, Isaac Baldwin, William Stanton, Moses Seymour,
Samuel Buel, Joseph Adams, Luke Lewis, Frederick Doming,
Sylvester Galpin, George C. Woodruff, Charles Adams, Sam'l
P. Bolles, Ciiauncey M. Hooker, Henry W. Buel.
FIRST EPISCOPAL SOCIETY. 177
In 1735, Mr. John Davies, of Kinton, Hertfordshire, Eng-
land, purchased a tract of land in the soutli-west corner of this
town, and not long after took np his abode in that wild and
unfrequented region. lie was warmly attached to the doc-
trines and forms of the Church of England, jand was for some
years the only Episcopalian in Litchfield. The unpopularity
of Mr. Collins, of the congregational society, at length induced
several of the leading members of his congregation to with-
draw themselves from his ministry, and to look elsewhere for
religious instruction. On the 5th of November, 1745, a meet-
ing was called at the house of Captain Jacob Griswold, by
Messrs. Jacob Griswold, Joseph Kilbourn, John Davies, James
Kilbourn, Thomas Lee, Samuel Kilbourn, Abiel Smith, Joseph
Smith, Abraham Kilbourn, Elijah Griswold, Isaac BisscU, Wil-
liam Emmons and Daniel Landon — at which the First Epis-
copal Society of Litchfield was organized. The iirst service
after the English ritual, was performed in this town by the
Rev. Dr. Samuel Johnson, President of King's (now Colum-
bia) College in the city of New York. At an adjourned Town
Meeting, held on the 16th of February, 1747, it was voted,
that " those who declared themselves members of the Church
of England the last year, shall be discharged from paying their
Minister's Rate for the last year — they paying two-thirds of
the Rate that was made for them to pay the last year." This
was one short step toward toleration. In that year Mr. John
Davies deeded to the Episcopal Society in Litchfield, a ti'act of
land situated about one mile west of the present Court House,
containing fifty-two acres. This deed was in the form of a
lease, for the term of nine hundred and ninety-eight years,
for the use of the " Society for Propagating the Gospel in For-
eign Parts" — for which there was to be paid " one pepper-corn
annually, at or upon the Feast of St. Michael the Archangel,
if lawfully demanded." About the same time, Mr, Daniel
Landon deeded to Capt. Jacob Griswold and Captain Joseph
Kilbourn, a tract of fifty acres, " lying westward of the Great
Pond, near a mountain called Little Mount Tom," to hold for
the use of said Society for Propagating the Gospel, " to be by
said Society applied and appropriated for the benefit of the
23
178 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Minister of the Episcopal Chnrch in Litclifickl." The first
church edifice of the parish was raised upon the first named of
these tracts, April. 23, 1749. It was covered — scats, pulpit,
reading desk and chancel were made — and it w^as used in this
condition for about twenty years before it was finished. It
was named St. MichaeVs^ by request of Mr. Davies. It stood
(as did also the house of Captain Griswold, in which the society
was organized,) nearly opposite the present residence of John
E. Sedgwick, Esq., and continued to be occupied as a place of
public worship for over sixty years.
In 1749, John Davies, Jr., (the only surviving son of the
first benefactor of the parish,) came over from Hertfordshire,
with a wife and several young children,* and settled near his
father, south-west of Mount Tom, at a place still known as
Davies Hollow. As he was a gentleman of good estate, and an
ardent Churchman, his arrival was regarded as an important
accession to the Episcopal Society. He had previously crossed
the ocean two or three times on tours of observation. His
wife — vv'hose maiden name was Mary Powell — was very reluc-
tant to leave her native land ; and had it not been for the fact
that one or more of her children were already in the family of
their grand-parents in Litchfield, it is doubtful if she would
have been induced to come. That she shou.ld have regarded
her new home in the wilderness as cheerless and lonely, com-
pared with the scenes she had left, is not to be wondered at.
In writing home to her English friends, she is said to have
described herself as " entirely alone, having no society, and
nothing to associate ivith hut Presbyterians and Wolves.''^ The
reader may be interested in the fact, that though the wolves
long since disappeared from Davies Hollow, some of the de-
scendants of the excellent lady who thus Ma-ote, are now num-
bered among the sect of christians which she seems to have
regarded with such abhorrence.
* William, Mmy, Walter and James, were born in Hertford ; the other children,
viz., Catharine, Elizabeth, Ann, James J., David, Rachel, George and Thomas,
were born in Litclilield. These were all children of Mr. Davies' second wife,
Mary Powell. His first wife, Elizabetli Brown, was the mother of John, Thomas
(the Rector of St. Michael's,) and William who died young. The youngest
son, Thomas, was born about the time of the death of his elilcr brother of the same
name.
RECTORS OF ST. MICHAEL'S CHURCH. 179
From tliG Organization of the society in 1745, to 1754, they
were without a settled minister. The Rev. Drs. Mansfield,
Johnson, Cntlcr and Beach, occasionally officiated here ; and
in the absence of a clergyman, prayers were sometimes read
by Messrs. Davies, Landon and Cole. The first Rector of
St. Michael was the Rev. Solomon Palmer, 31. A., who had
been pastor of the Congregational Church in Cornwall from
1741 to 1754. In March of the preceding year, to the great
surprize and grief of his people, he on the Sabbath publicly,
announced himself an E[)iscopalian in sentiment. He soon
after sailed for England, where he was ordained Deacon and
Priest by the Rt. Rev. Zachary Pierce, Bishop of Bangor ; and
returned to this country during the same year (1754,) bearing
a commission from the Venerable Society as missionary for
Litchfield, Cornwall and Great Barrington. His salary from
the Society was X60 per annum. With the exception of about
three years, (during which time he was Rector of Trinity
Church in New Haven,) Mr. Palmer continued to reside in
Litchfield, in the exercise of his pastoral duties, until his death,
which took place November 1, 1771, at the age of 62 years.
He was buried near the old parish church, one mile west of
the present edifice — where, Mr. Jones informs us, his tomb-
stone was standing in 1812. His epitaph has recently been
carved on a handsome modern monument in the West Burying
Ground.
His successor in the ministry of St. Michael's, was the Rev.
Thomas Davies, M. A., (son of Mr. John Davies, Jr.,) who
was born in Hereford, England, January 2, 1737, and was
brought to Litchfield by his father in 1745, when but little
more than eight years old, and was left here with his grand-
parents. This was some four years before his parents became
residents of this town. Having graduated at Yale College in
1758, and pursued the usual course of theological studies,
Mr. Davies sailed for England, and was there ordained Deacon
by the Archbishop of Canterbury, at Lambeth, on Sunday,
August 23, 1761, and was ordained Priest by the same prelate
on the following day. Like Mr. Palmer, he returned hither
as a missionary of the English Society " for Litchfield county
ISO HISTOKY OF LITCHFIELD.
and tho parts adjacent." By a subsequent and more definite
appointment, the parishes of New Milford, Roxljury, New
Fairfield, New Preston and Sliaron, were designated as his
field of labor. On the removal of ilr. Palmer to New Haven
in 1763, he became the minister of St. Michael's, and remained
here in charge of the parish until his decease, May 12, 1766.
His Memoirs and Piary, (with a likeness,) were published in
New Haven in 1843 — edited by the Ilev. Mr. Hitchcock. The
volume contains the record of a large number of Baptisms and
Marriages in Litchfield. As heretofore intimated, Mr. Palmer
returned to Litchfield and continued his pastoral duties in this
place during the remainder of his life. Mr. Benjamin Farn-
ham, a candidate for Holy Orders, officiated in the parish for
a few months, until the arrival of the Rev. Richard Moseley,
who was sent hither as a missionary of the Society in England.
Mr. M. was not welcomed with any degree of cordiality, and
was never recognized by the congregation as their pastor. He
consequently returned to England, and carried with him such
an "ill report" of the parish as to cause a suspension of the
annual allowance from the English Society for the year 1773.
On a due representation of the facts m the case, the salary
was restored in 1774.
The Rev. James Nichols, a native of Waterbury and a grad-
uate of Yale College, became Rector of the parish, April 20th,
1775. Though he is represented to have been a talented and
popular preacher, the excitement consequent upon the Revo-
lution drove him from the pulpit, and the church was closed
until 1780. Mr. Nichols then resumed his ministerial duties,
and the society from that time gradually increased in numbci^
* The Episcopalians of Litchfield have good cause to remember the Davies
family witli gratitude. John Davies, Sen., (in addition to the <rift of the lands
refeiTcd to,) was perhaps tlie most liberal contrrbntor towards erecting the first
Episcopal church in this town. He died November 22, 1758, aotl his remains were
brought seven miles from his residence and interred in our West Burying Ground,
where they rest without a stone to mark the spot. He ordered gifts of mourning
apparel to be made to his colleagues in erecting the church. John Davies, Jr.,
in January, 1794, gave a piece of land near his residence in Davies Hollow, for
a church and luirying-ground, on whieh, mainly at his own expense, a place of
wor.<hip was erected. Aged and infirm, he sat in the door of his house and wit-
nessed the raising of the building. He departed this life. May H>, 1797, in his
84th year. His widow, Mary, died December 15, 1801, in her 7Ctli year.
On the organization of the town of Washington in 1771>, Davies Hollow wiis
annexed to that township .
PROGRESS OP EPISCOPACY. 181
and in public favor. On tho 26tli of October, 1784, it was in-
corporated by an Act of tlie General Assembly of the State,
and thereupon it was duly organized according to law.
Episcopacy in Litchfield had thus far been tolerated, and the
the members of the society had for the most part been treated
by their fellow-townsmen with the ordinary courtesies of life ;
but a large majority of the people of the town as well as of the
members of the colonial and State governments, seem to have
been particularly loth to do anything that might look like en-
couraging^ dissent from what had so long been the established
religion of Connecticut. In 1785, an "Address of Thanks"
to the Legislature was drawn up by the Rev. Mr. Nichols and
signed by Daniel Landon, Jr., in behalf of the society, for the
act of incoi'poration. " Wishing the favor of a Justice of the
Peace to adorn our Society " (wrote Mr. Landon,) " they
nominated Mr. Seth Landon, with some others, as a fit person
to fill that office." Seventeen years after this request was
made, Mr. Seth Landon was for the first time appointed to
the office for which he was thus nominated ; nor do I find
that, in the intermediate time, more than one Episcopalian
was appointed to the magistracy for this town ! It was not
until the Jefifersonian Campaign, when Messrs. Champion and
Huntington began to introduce />o/i7zc5 into their sermons and
prayers, that Episcopacy became sufficiently formidable in the
town to demand its full share of civil and political rights.
Mr. Nichols resigned his charge of the parish in May, 1784;
and on the 9th of September, 1785, the Rev. Ashbel Baldwin,
(a native of Litchfield and a graduate of Yale College,) be-
came the Rector of St. Michael's, and continued to occupy
the position for about eight years — when he was succeeded by
the Rev. David Butler, (afterwards D. i).) His successors
have been the Rev. Messrs. Truman Marsh, Isaac Jones, John
S. Stone, D. D., William Lucas, Samuel Fuller, D. D.,
William Payne, John J. Brandagee, Benjamin W. Stone, J.
M. Willey, and the present Rector, Rev. H. N. Hudson. -V
In 1796, during the ministry of Mr. Butler, a large number
of Episcopalians residing in the west })art of the town seceded
from the first Episcopal Society, and erected a new church.
182 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
The edifice, which stood upon the hill nearly opposite the
Burying'-Ground at Bantam Palls, was fifty feet long by thirty-
six broad, and was surmounted by a tower, bell, and steeple.
It was planned and built by Mr. Giles Kilbourn, who died
on the 13th of September, 1797, and his funeral was the first
attended within its walls.* In October, 1797, the secedcrs
petitioned to be released from paying taxes to the First Epis-
copal Society, and for permission to organize themselves into
a distinct Society. On the 6th of November following, this
petition was granted ; and on the 14th, the " Second Episcopal
Society of Litchfield" was duly organized, with the following
officers, viz., Messrs. David Kilbourn, John Landon and Syl-
vanus Bishop, Society's Committee ; James Kilbourn, Clerk ;
and Heber Stone, Treasurer. In 1803, the two Societies were
amicably united, and so continue at the present time — though
they manage a portion of their affairs independently of each
other, and have different Rectors. The Old West Church (as
it was called,) was occupied as a place of public worship about
forty-six years, and was taken down in the summer of 1843 —
a smaller edifice having about that time been erected a few
rods farther west. Services were held for the first time in the
new church — which bears the name of St. Paul's — on Sunday,
December 24th, 1843, by the Rev. G. C. Y. Eastman, the
newly appointed Rector.
At the commencement of Mr. Marsh's ministry in this town,
in 1799, he agreed to preach one-fifth of the time in Milton,
where there were a few fixmilies of Episcopalians ; and in 1802
a neat and convenient church was erected in that section of
the town. It was raised on the 25th of June, 1802 ; finished
in 1827 ; consecrated by Bishop Brownell in 1837, and is still
in use.
There is also a flourishing Episcopal church and society in
Northfield, in the south-east part of this town, under the care
of the Rev. Frederick Ilolcomb, D. D., of Watertown.
* Mr. K. was entliusiastically devoted to his business as a Builder, and did much
in his generation to improve the architecture of this vicinity. The Talhnadgc
House, and the present residences of William Deming and Henry R. Coit, Esq's.,
(all in tliis village,) were built by him. An obituary notice of him in the r»Ionitor,
(whicli is understood to liave l>een written by the Hcv. Dr. Hutlcr,) says — "Pic
was a man of uncommon iiidustiy, and a very valuable member of society." His
fuucral sermon was preached by .Dr. Hutlcr.
METHODISM IN LITCHFIELD. 183
In June, 1790, the Rev. Frecboni Garretson, one of the
ablest and most earnest Apostles of Methodism in America,
visited Litchfield on his way from the Hudson river to Boston.
He was at that time Superintendent of the Nortliern District,
and, in his itinerant jouriieyings, was almost invariably attend-
ed by his colored servant, Harry, who was himself a licensed
preacher of no mean distinction. They traveled together on
horseback, apparently vicing with each other in their zeal for
the promotion of the cause of their common Master. On
Wednesday, June 23d, (as we learn from Dr. Stevens' Memo-
rials of Methodism,^ Mr. Garretson "rode seven miles to
Litchfield, and was surprized to find the doors of the Episco-
pal church open, and a large congregation waiting for him.
He discoursed from the words — ' Enoch wallvcd with God,' —
and believed good was done. He left Harry to preach another
sermon, and went on to the centre of the town ; the bell rang,
and he preached to a few in the Presbyterian meeting-house,
and lodged with a kind churchman." On the same day, Mr.
Garretson wrote in his Diary — "I preached in the skirts of
the town, where I was opposed by , who made a great
disturbance. I told him the enemy had sent him to pick up
the good seed ; turned my back on him, and went my way,
accompanied by brothers W. and H, I found another waiting
company, in another part of the town, to whom I declared,
' Except ye repent ye shall all likewise perish.' In this town
we have given the devil and the wicked much trouble ; we
have a few good friends." On his return from Boston, Mr.
Garretson again preached in Litchfield — Friday, July 13, 1790.
So far as I have learned, these were the frst Methodist ser-
mons ever preached in this town.
The Litchfield Circuit was organized during tlie spring of
1790, and embraced, according to Mr. Stevens, " the north-
western section of Connectiqut." In May, 1791, the Rev,
Messrs. Matthias Swain and James Covel were appointed by
the conference to labor in this Circuit. Their immediate suc-
cessors, previous to the commencement of the present century,
were. Rev. Messrs. Lemuel Smith, Samuel Ostrander, Philip
Wagner, James Coleman, Enoch Mudge, F, Aldridge, Jesse
184 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Stoneman, Joseph Mitchell, Daniel Dennis, Wesley Biidd,
Ezekiel Canfield, William Thatcher, EbenezQr Stevens, Free-
man Bishop and Augustus Jocelyn.
On the 21st of July, 1791, the famous Bishop Asbury
preached in the Episcopal church in this town. In reference
to his visit here, he wrote — " I think Morse's account of his
countrymen is near the truth ; never have I seen any people
who could talk so long, so correctly, and so seriously, about
trifles." A hard hit, certainly ! — is it not too well deserved ?
I have found no records whatever, indicating the progress
of this denomination in Litchfield, for many years subsequent
to the last of the dates here given. The names of the follow-
ing persons in our Grand List for 1805, are put down as " mem-
bers of the Methodist Society," viz., Noah Agard, Isaac Bald-
win, Ebenezer Clark, Thomas F. Gross, Elisha Horton, Samuel
Green, Jonathan Hitchcock, Ros well McNeil, Jonathan Rogers,
Daniel Noyes, John Stone and Arthur Swan.
In 1837, a handsome church edifice was erected by the
Methodists, in Meadow street, in this village, which was dedi-
cated on the 27th of July of that year. The dedication ser-
mon was preached by Professor Holdich, of the Wesleyan
University ; and an appropriate discourse was delivered by
the Rev. Mr. Washburn. The following clergymen have since
been stationed here, generally for two years each — Rev. Messrs.
Charles Chittenden, Keyes, Gad Smith, Jason Wells, D. L.
Marks, William Dixon, Joseph Henson, William B. Hoyt, N.
C. Lewis, II. N. Weed, Lounsbury, and William Howard.
The number of members of this church, as reported to the
Conference about a year since, is 113.
In addition to the church in this village, there is a Metho-
dist church in Milton and another on Mount Tom.
The late Rev. Horace Agard, and the Rev. Joseph L. Morse,
are, so far as I can learn, the only natives of the town who
have become Methodist ministers.
There is a flourishing Baptist Church and Society at Ban-
tam Falls, under the charge of the Rev. Mr. Ganun. For-
merly there was a Baptist Church in Northfield, which flour-
ished for several years under the pastoral care of the Rev.
Messrs. Seth Higley and Levi Peck.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTES
0f Uatibci^ \\\\^ 'gmkwh of tk l0l\jn of f ittMelir.
ADAMS, Samuel, a native of Milford and long a resident of
Stratford, came to tliis village to reside a few years previous to his
death — which look ])lace here, November 12, 178cS, in the 85 th year
of his age. lie had I)een a prominent lawyer and Judge of tlie Fair-
field County Couit. His widow, INIrs. Mary Adams, died in this
town, August 29, 1803, in the one hundred and sixth year of her age.
" She retained," says the Monitor, " her memory, reason and activity
remarkably, until about two years before her death. After she was
an hundred years old, she rode on horseback thirty miles in one day."
She was a daughter of Mr. Zachariah Fairchild, and was born in
Stratford, May 7, 1G98 ; thus having lived in three centuries!
ADAMS, Andrew, LL. D., (son of the preceding,) resided in this
tcnvn about thirty years, and became Chief Justice of the State.
He died in this village, while holding that oIHce, Nov. 27, 17'J7, aged
G2. [See pp. 144 and 145. of this volume.]
ALLEN, John, a native of Great Barrington, Mass., was admitted
to the Litchtield liar in 1786, and continuedjo reside here as a prac-
ticing lawyer until his death, in the year 1812. He was a Repre-
sentative at seven sessions ; Clerk of the House in 1796 ; member of
Congress from 1797 to 1799 ; and member of the State Council from
1800 to 180jj. He not only possessed great powers of mind, but was
remarkable for his imposing presence — having been nearly seven feet
in height, and with a proportionably heavy frame. He was buried
in our East Graveyard.
ALLEN, John \y., (son of the preceding.) was born in Litchfield,
but left his native town soon after the death of his father. Having
studied law, he settled in Cleveland, Ohio, where he became eminent
in his profession. In 1837, he was elected a member of Congress
from Ohio, and was re-elected in 1839. He has also been Mayor of
Cleveland, Presidential Elector, etc.
ALLEN, General Ethan, the Hero of Ticonderoga, was born in
Litchfield, January 10, 1737-'8 ; and died iil Burlington, Vermont,
February 13, 1789, aged 51 years. [See pp. 135, etc. of this volume.]
24
1S6 HISTORY (3F LITCHFIELD.
AGARD, Rev. Horace, (son of INIr. Noah Agartl,) was born in
Litclifiekl, received a license to preach from tlie Methodist Confer-
ence, and for some time labored successfully in liis native town. Re-
moving to the State of Nev/ York, he was ordained Deacon in Paris,
by Bishop George, in 1(S21, and two years later he was ordained
Elder at Westmoreland, N. Y., by the same Bishop. For eleven
years out of nineteen of eftective service in the ministry, he was Pre-
siding Elder of the Susquehanna and Berkshire Districts. He died
in the faith, January 8, 1 850.
BACON, Asa, a resident of Litchfield from 1803 to 185-2, was born
in Canterbury, graduated at Yale College in 1793, and died in
New Haven in February, 1857, aged 86. lie was one of the most
eminent lawyers at the Litcldield bar. His widow, (a daughter of
the late Hon. Epaphroditus Chara[)ion, of East Iladdam,) is still living
in New Haven.
BACON, Epaphroditus Champion, (eldest son of the preceding,)
was born in Litchfield in 1811 ; graduated at Yale College in 1833;
and settled in his native town as a lawyer. In 1839, he was a Del-
egate to, and Secretary of, the National Convention which met at
Harrisburg and nominated General Harrison for the Presidency of
the United States. Mr. Bacon was elected a Representative from
this town in 1840, and again in 1841. He was a diligent antiquarian
and genealogist. While traveling in Europe, he died at Seville,
Spain, January 11, 1845, aged 34 years.
BACON, Lieutenant Frederick A., (son of Asa Bacon, Esq.,)
was born in Litchfield in 1813 ; entered the Navy in his youth, and
was attached to the U. S. Schooner Sea Gull of the Exploring Expe-
dition, which foundered off Cape Horn, May 1st, 1839, and all on
board perished. He was 26 years of age. Lieut. Bacon was mar-
ried, and left one son.
BACON, General Francis, (youngest son of Asa Bacon, Esq.,)
was born in Litchfield in January, 1820; graduated at Yale College
in 1838: studied law with the Hon. O. S. Seymour, and settled as a
lawyer in his native town. With the exception of two or three years,
he continued to reside here until his death. In 1847 and 1848, he
was First Clerk of the House ; and in 1849, he was elected to the
Senate of this State. He was also Major General of all the Militia
of Connecticut. He died in this town, September 16, 1849, aged 29
years and 8 months. General Bacon married Elizabeth Dutcher, of
Canaan, and left one daughter, Kate.
BALDWIN, Isaac, graduated at Yale College in 1735, settled in
Litchfield in 1742, and died here, January 15, 1805, aged 95 years.
He was u Representative at ten sessions. Clerk of the Probate Court
twenty-nine years, Town Clerk thirty-one years, and Cleik of the
Court of Common Pleas forty-two years !
BALDWIN, Rev. Ashbel, (son of Isaac Baldwin, Ksc].,) was I)(>rn
in Litclifield, March 7, 1757, and graduated at Yale C()ll(\c;e in 1770.
BIOGRAPHY 187
He was ordained Deacon at Middletown, liy Bishop Seabury, Aug.
3, 1785 — heinri the first Episcopal ordination in the United States.
In September following, he was ordained Priest by the same liishop.
From 17oo to 17'J3, he was 'Rector of St. Olichael's church in this
town, and was afterwards for about thirty years Rector of Christ
Church, Stratford. He was Secretary of the Diocese of Connecticut,
and member of the Genei'al Convention. Glr. Baldwin died in Roch-
ester, N. y., February 8, 1846, in his 8'Jth year. From his register
it appears that he had preached and performed service about 10,000
times ; ba])tized 3,010 persons ; married GOO couple; and buried about
3,000 persons !
BALDWIN, William B., (son of Captain Horace and grandson of
Isaac Baldwin, Esq.,) was born in Litchfield, January 7, 1803, and
has been for more than twenty years past one of the editors and pro-
prietors of the New Haven Daily and Weekly Register. He has also
been State Printer, member of the Common Council of the City of
New Haven, &c.
BARNES, Amos, (son of Mr. Enos Barnes,) was born in Litch-
field, and settled in Pittsfield, Mass., where he still resides. He was
an officer in actual service in the last war with Great Britain ; has
since been a Selectman, Magistrate, and Trial Justice of the Police
Court; and in 1837 and again in 1838, he was elected a member of
the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
BEEBE, Bezaleel, a Colonel in the continental army, was born in
Litchfield, April 28, 1741 ; died May 28, 182L [See p. 145.]
BEECHER, Lyman, D. D., was born in New Haven, October 12,
1775 ; graduated at Yale College in 1797 ; and was ordained pastor
of a church in East Hampton, L. I., in December 1798, with a salary
of ijrSOO per- year. In 1810, at the age of thirty-five years, he was
installed pastor of the First Church in Litchfield, and remained here
in that capacity for a period of sixteen years. This was, as he him-
self states, by far the most active and laborious part of his life. In
addition to his ordinary pastoral services, he was probably more con-
spicuously identified v/ith the establishment of the great benevolent
associations of the day, than any other country pastor in New Eng-
land. Returning, full of zeal, from the first meeting of the American
Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions, in 1812, he called to-
gether, in this village, several clergymen and laymen from various
parts of the county, who organized the Litchfield Count// Foreign
Mission Society — the first Auxiliary of the American Board.
He was active in all the reforms of that period. His Six Sermons on
Intemferance, which were preached in our old meeting-house in 1826,
were widely circulated on both sides of the Atlantic, and were among
the earliest and most effective means in arousing the Christian world
to the evils of intemperance. In 1826, Dr. Beecher became pastor
of the Hanover street Church in Boston; and in 1832, he accepted
the Presidency of Lane Theological Seminary in Ohio, in which lat-
ter office he continued for some ten years. Subsequently, for a few
188 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
years, he was engaged in preparing his Works for the press. lie
now resides in Brooklyn, New York. Dr. Beecher has been three
times married, and has had thirteen children, viz., 1 Catharine E,,
distinguished as an author ; 2 Rev. William II. ; 3 Rev. Edward,
D. D., ex-President of Illinois College ; 4 Mary Foote, m. the Hon.
Thomas C. Perkins, of Hartford ; 5 Harriet, died young, on Long
Island ; G Rev. George, died in Chilicothie, Ohio ; 7 Harriet, m.
Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Stowe, now of Andover, Mass. ; 8 Rev. Henry
Ward; 9 Rev. Charles, of Georgetown, Mass.; 10 Frederick, died
young, in Litchlield ; 11 Isabella Holmes, m. John Hooker, Esq., of
Hartford ; 12 Rev. Thomas K., of Elmira, N. Y. ; 13 Rev. James C,
Seamen's Chaplain in China. Of these, Mrs. Stowe, Henry Ward,
Charles, Frederick, Mrs. Hooker, and Thomas K., were born in
Litchfield.
BEECHER, Rev. Henry Ward, was born in Litclifield, June 21,
1813 ; graduated at Amherst College in ISo-l ; was licensed to preach
in April, 1838; and Avas settled as pastor of a church in Lawrence-
burgh, Indiana, in the fall of the same year. From August 1839 to
October, 1847, he was pastor of a church in Indianapolis, Indiana ;
and since the last named date he has been pastor of the Plymouth
Church, Brooklyn, N. Y. He is a powerful and popular preacher
and lecturer, and is said by the New American Cyclopedia to have
" the largest uniform congregation in the United States." He is the
author of a volume of Lectures to Toung Men; The Star Pa-pers ;
Views and Experiences; Talks about Fruits, Floivers, and Farmimj,
&c. ; and two volumes of extracts from his extemporaneous discources,
noted down, edited, and published, by members of his congregation,
have had an extensive circulation. Mr. Beecher was married, Aug.
3, 1837, to Eunice, daughter of Dr. Artemas Ballard, of W, Sutton, Ms.
BEERS, Seth P., was born in Woodbury, July 1, 1781, studied
law with the Hon. Ephraira Kirby, and at the Litchfield Law School,
and was admitted to the bar on the 20th of March, 1805. He has
ever since resided in this village. In November, 1813, he was aji-
pointed by President Madison, Collector of the Direct Taxes and
Internal Revenue of the United States, for Litchfield county, and held
the office until it was aboHshed in 1820. He was also State's Attor-
ney for five years, and a Representative in 1820, 1821, 1822 and 1823.
In 1821, he was Clerk of the House, and during the sessions of the
two succeeding years he was Speaker. In 1824, he was elected a
State Senator, and, while holding that office, the Legislature appoint-
ed him Assistant Commissioner of the School Fund. On the resig-
nation of the Hon. James Hillhouse, he was appointed sole Commis-
sioner, June 1, 1825, and resigned said office to take effect December
1 1849. The Legislature passed a unanimous vote of thanks to Mr.
Beers "for his long, laborious and faithful labors as Commissioner of
the School Fund." Mr. B. has also been a candidate for Congress ;
and in 1839, he was tlie regular democratic nominee for Governor.
He was a Presidential Elector in 1836, and State Superintendent
f Common Schools fi'om 1845 to 1849.
BIOGRAPHY.
189
BIRD, John, (son of Dr. Sctli Bird,) was born in Litclilicld, Nov.
22, 17G8; graduated at Yale College in 1786; i)racliced law ior a
few years in his native town ; removed to Tioy, N. Y., in 1794, and
died there in the year 180G, aged 38 years. He had been a member
of the Legislature of New York, and a member of Congress from that
State. Ex-President Van Buren thus writes to the author of this vol-
ume concerning him : "John Bird I did not know personally, but
have always taken much interest in his character and career. He
must, according to all accounts, have been one of the very ablest men
in the State, tliough a very eccentric one. There have been but few
men among us, who have 'left behind them so many racy anecdotes
illustrative^of their peculiarities." His first wife was a daughter of
Col. Joshua Porter, of Salisbury ; his second wife was Sally Buel,
daughter of Mr. David Buel, of Troy, formerly of this town. He left
several children.
BIRGE, Gen. John Ward, was born in Litchfield, January 7, 1803,
and in his youth went to reside with an uncle in Cazenovia, N. Y.
He received his medical degree at Geneva College, and is a successful
practitioner in Utica, where, as a surgeon and occulist, he has a liigli
reputation. He is, however, principally famous for his connection
with the Patriot War in Canada in 1837-'8. He had previously been
Colonel of the Eighth Regiment of New York State Cavalry; and,
while holding the office of Brigadier General, (an extensive organi-
zation being perfected along the lines, having for its object the
freedom of the Canadas from British rule,) he was waited upon by a
deputation from the executive committee having the matter in charge,
who urged upon him the acceptance of a Major General's commission,
with the command of the second of the three Divisions. After some
hesitation, he accepted the position, and fixed his headquarters at
Watertown, N. Y. The confidence and enthusiasm of the people on
the subject, for fifty miles on each side of the lines, was so unbounded,
that such a thing as failure seems not to have been thought of. The
-whole plan of operations, however, Avas frustrated by a rash attempt
of Colonel Yon Shoultz, a gallant Polander,.to land at Prescott with
his regiment. Success would have made Heroes and Patriots of the
chief actors in the enterprize ; failure made them Rebels and Traitors.
Von Shoultz and others were hanged, some were banished, and some
(among whom was the subject of this sketch) were tried for a breach
of the neutrality laws. General Birge is a son of the late Joseph
Birge, Esq., who died in this town in 1854.
BISSELL, George Beckwith, (son of Mr. John Bissell,) was born
in Litchfield, Sept. 12, 1823, entered the United States Navy in his
youth. In August, 1846, he was -attached to the U. S. Brig Tnixton
when she was wrecked on the coast of Mexico, and with others was
seized and held as a prisoner of war. On his release, he made a visit
to his native town ; but soon re-joined the Navy, and for eighteen
months was attached to the scientific department at Washington. He
joined the Frigate Cumberland in New York, as Sailing Master, on
the 31st of August, and died at the Naval Hospital in Brooklyn, Sep-
190 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
ttinbfn- 10, 18 18, aged 25 years. His remains were brought here for
inUTinent. His elder brothers, John Bissell, Jr., and Edward Bissell,
Esq'rs., (hotli hiwyers in New York city,) were born in the State of
New York, but resided many years in Litchfiekl. The kilter has
been a Purser in the Navy.
IIISSELL, Lyman, (son of Mr, Hiram Bissell,) was born in Litcli-
fiekl, October VJ, 1812; was Captain in the United States Army,
and Paymaster of the New England Regiment, in the War with
Mexico ; and is still an oilicer in the Army.
BRACE, John P., was born in Litchfield, February lOth, 17'J3 ;
graduated at ^Villiams College in 1812; and was for some years
Principal of the Litchfield Female Academy, and subsei[uently of the
Hartibrd Female Seminary. For eight or ten years past, he has
been one of the editors of the Hartford Daily and Weekly CuaraiU.
Mr. Brace is the author of Lectures to Young Converts, Tales of the
Devils, and The Fawn of the Pale Faces.
BRACE, Charles Loring, the celebrated traveler, is a son of John
P. Brace, Escj., and was born in Litchfield, June 19, 1826. Having
graduated at Yale College in 1S4G, and pursued a course of theologi-
cal studies, he spent several years traveling in Europe ; as a part of
the fruits of which, he has given to the public three or four very in-
teresting volumes, viz., Hungary in 1851, Home Life in Germany,
The Norse Folk, &c. In May, 1851, during the Hungarian struggle
for independence, Mr. Brace was seized as a spy by the Austrian au-
thorities, and imprisoned at Gross Wardein ; but after a lapse of
thirty days, he was released through the intervention of Mr. McCurdy,
then American Minister to Austria. He is now Secretary of the
Children's Aid Society in the city of New York.
BRADLEY, Abraham, (son of Abraham Bradley, Esq.,) was born
in Litchfield, February 21, 1767, studied law, and became a Judge in
Luzerne county, Penn. From 171)9 to 1829, he was First Assistant
Postmaster General of the United States. He drew and published
a Map of all the Post Rpads in the Union, with the Post Otfices and
distances clearly defined. He died at his residence in the city of
Washington a few years since.
BRADLEY, Dr. Phineas, (brother of the preceding,) was born in
Litchfield, July 17, 1769 ; married Hannah Jones, of this town, and
settled here as a physician and druggist. When the office of Second
Assistant Postmaster General was created by Congress, Dr. Bradley
was appointed, and retained the position for about twenty-five years.
He was a gentleman of Avealth, and distinguished for his hospitality
and benevolence. He died at his beautiful seat, Clover Hill, two
miles north of the national capitol, in the spring of 18i5, aged 76.
BRADLEY, William A., (son of the preceding,) was born in
Litchfield, July 25, 1794, and settled in the City of Washington,
where he still resides. He has been President of the Patriotic Bank,
Postmaster, and Mayor of the city.
BIOGRAPHY. 191
BUEL, David, Jr., born in Litclifickl, October 22, 1784 ; gradim-
tcdat AVilliams College in 1805 ; settled as a lawyer in Troy, wliere
lie still resides. In 1821, he was a Delegate to the Constitutional Con-
vention of his adopted State ; for some years held the oilice of First
Judge of the Court of Common Pleas for Renselaer county; and in
1842, he was elected a Regent of the State University — a position
which he still holds. From 1829 to 1847, Judge Buel was a Trustee
of Williams College, May 24th, 1814, he married Harriet, daughter
of John G. Hillliouse, Esq., of Montville, Conn., and has several
sons and daughters,
BUSHNELL, Rev. Horace, D. D., (son of Ensign Bushnell, Esq.)
was born in Litchfield in 1802; graduated at Yale College in 1827,
and was a Tutor in that institution from 1829 to 1831. For the
last twenty-seven years, he has been pastor of the North Congrega-
tional Church in Hartford. He received the degree of Doctor of
Divinity from the Wesleyan University in 1842, and from Harvard
College in 1852. Besides a large number of published Addresses
and Sermons, he is the author of several theological works that
have elicited much attention on both sides of the ocean — among wdiich
are God in Christ, Nature and tlie Sapernatural, and Sermons for the
New Life.
CATLIN, Julius, (son of Mr. Grove Catlin,) was born in Ilar-
winton in 1799. When he was about one year old, his parents re-
moved to this village, and this continued to be his honie for the suc-
ceeding twenty years, though at the age of fifteen he commenced his
clerkship in Hartford. He became a successful merchant in that
city, where he still resides. Many years ago he was a Director of
the Connecticut Branch of the United States Bank, and v\as one of
the Committee appointed to wind up the affairs of that institution,
when the parent Bank had been crushed by the veto of General
Jackson. In 1846, he was appointed Commissary General of the
State, and subsequently he held the office of Auditor of Public Ac-
counts. The President of the United States, in 1847, commissioned
Colonel Catlin as a member of the Board of Visi;ors to the National
Military Academy at West Point. In the autumn of 1856, Colonel
Catlin and ex-Governor Dutton were chosen Presidential Electors
for the State at large. At the annual election in April, 1858, the
subject of this sketch was chosen Lieutenant-Governor of Connecti-
ant — an office which, by re-election in April last, he still holds. It
is pleasant to his Litchfield friends to know that long absence has not
obliterated his recollections of these cherished scenes. In a recent
letter to the author of this volumej he says — " I look back with de-
light on the many days and years of my childhood and youth spent at
my happy home. My recollections of Litchfield are indeed [jleasant.
I love its very name, and shall ever take a deep interest in the welfare
of the place." Would that all the emigrant vSons of Litchfield might
carry with them, and retain through life, the same genial love ibr
their early homes ! In 1829, Mr. Catlin married Mary Fisher, of
Wrentham, IMass., (a sister of the wife of the Rev. Joel Ilav.-es, I). D.,)
192 HiSTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
and lias had five children, three of whom arc living. For the last
liftecn years, he has resided in Asylum street, on the height of ground
adjacent to the Railroad — formerly known as the Sigourney Place —
one of the most beautiful situations in Hartford.
CATLIN, Putnam, (son of Mr. Eli Catlin,) was born in Litch-
field, studied law with General Tracy, and was admitted to the bar
in this town in 1786. He settled in Montrose, Penn., and there held
the office of Judge of the Court of Common Pleas. He was the
father of George Catlin, the celebrated artist and historian of the
American Indians, who was himself educated in Litchfield.
CHURCH, Samuel, LL. D., a native and former resident of Salis-
bury, came to Litchfield to reside in 1845, and remained here until
his death in the autumn of 1854. He had long been in public life ;
and, while residing in this town, was chosen Chief Justice of the State
and received the degree of Doctor of Laws from Trinity College.
COLLIER, John Allen, (son of Capt. Thomas Collier, editor
of the Monitor,) v/as born in Litchiield, November 13, 1787; settled
as a lawyer in Binghamton, Broome county, N, Y., and still resides
there. He has been a member of Congress, Comptroller of the State,
Ct)mmissioner to revize and codify the laws. Senatorial Elector for
President and Vice President of the United States, and Delegate to
and Chairman of the Whig National Convention of 1848. Mr. Col-
lier has long been one of the most eminent lawyers of the State of
New York. He was offered a foreign embassy by President Fillmore.
COLLIER., General James, (brother of the preceding,) was born
in Litchiiekl, May 30, 1789; settled in the State of New York, and
was Quartermaster and acting Adjutant at the Battle of Queenstown,
and participated in that fight. In 1819, he removed to Steubenville,
Ohio, his present residence, where he has held the offices of Colonel,
Mayor of the city, State's Attorney of the county, and Paymaster
General of Ohio. A few years since, he was a Commissioner, with
Thomas Ewing and John Brough, to settle the boundary between
Ohio and Virginia in conjunction with commissioners from the latter
State. In April, 1849, General Collier was appointed by President
Fillmore Collector of the Customs for Upper California, with orders
to take the overland route to the Pacific. He accepted the post, and,
under the escort of a company of dragoons, started for his field of
labor. He was five months on his journey, sometimes fighting his way
through hostile tribes of Indians, who succeeded in killing three of his
men, wounding another, and stealing twenty-seven mules and all his
horses. On his arrival at San Francisco, he found the Territory of
California governed exclusively by military authority. Being the
only civil officer of the federal government on the ground, he was not
only Collector, Appraiser, -Naval Officer and Surveyor, but was obli-
o-cd also to perform the duties of Distiict Judge, District Attorney,
and Marshal. On being recalled by a new national administration,
he w'as met with the charge of being a defaulter to the government ;
but after a vexatious suit, he was fully exonerated by the U. S. Court.
'hi/ H'al
I'.IOGRAPIIV. 193
•tt-
DEMING, Julius, an eminent merchant of Litchfickl, was born in
Lyme, April loth, 1755, unJ, about the year 1781, commenced
business in this village. A jrentleman of remarkable energy and en-
terprize, he soon visited London, and made arrangements to import
his goods direct from that city — which, probably, was not true of aliy
other countiy merchant in Connecticut. lie is universally recogniz-
ed by our citizens as the most tliorough and successful business man
who has ever spent his life among us. Prompt in his engagements,
scrupulously upright in his dealings, and discreet and liberal in his
benefactions, few men in any community ever enjoyed more implicitly
the confidence of all. Mr. Doming had little taste for public life. lie
was three times elected a member of tiie House of Representatives,
and for several years was one of the Magistrates of this county. From
1801 to 1814, he served in the oiliee of County Treasurer. His po-
sition and induence were such, that, had he been an aspirant for ])oliti-
cal honors, there were few olfices within the gift of the people of this
State which he might not have filled. lie died in this town, January
23, 1838, aged 83 years.
DEMING, Miner R., (son of Stephen Doming, Esq ,j was born
in Sharon, February 24, 1810; came to Litchfield with his parents in
1820, and continued to reside here for the next sixteen years. In
183G, he i-emoved to Cincinnati; and in 1839, he became a resident
of St. Mary's, Illinois. As Brigadier General, he was chief in com-
mand of the Illinois State Troops during the famous Mormon War.
General Doming died suddenly, of brain fever, September 10, 1845,
while holding the office of High Sheriff of Hancock county. For
some time before leaving Litchfield, he was a member of the First
Church in this village,andone of the Cluxrch Committee. He married
Abigail Barnum, of Danbury, and left a famil} .
DUTTON, Henry, LL. D., (of New Haven,) formerly Governor
of Connecticut, and now Professor of Law in Yale College, was born
in Plymouth, February 1:2, 179G. During thcfollowing summer, his
father, Mr. Thomas Dutton, purchased a place in Litchfield (North-
field Society,) and spent the seven succeeding years in this town,
The earliest recollections of the Governor are of his Litchfield home.
In subsequent years, he returned to Northfield, and taught school two
or threeseasons, before his admission to the bar.
GAY, Colonel Fisher, (son of John Gay, Esq.,) was born in Litch-
field, October 9, 1733 ; graduated at Yale College, and settled in
Farmington, where he was long a Justice of the Peace and Repre-
sentative. In the early part of the Revolution he commanded a regi-
ment of Connecticut troops sent for the defense of New York, in
which city he died in 1776.
GOULD, James, LL. D., a native of Branford, graduated at Yale
College in 1791 ; settled in Litchfield, and was associated with Judge
Gould in conducting the Law School in this town from 1708 to 1820,
and subsequently, for about thirteen years, he was the sole Principal
of that institution. From 18 IG to 1819, he was a Judge of the Su-
25
194 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
preme Court of this State. Gould's Pleading is a standard work in
all our Courts. He was regarded as one of the profoundest lawyers
and jurists in the country. The degree of Doctor of Laws was con-
ferred upon him by his alma mater in 1819. He died May 11, 1838,
aged 68. Judge Gould married Sally McCurdy, daughter of Gen.
Uriah Tracy, and had nine children, viz., 1 William Tracy, now a
Judge in Augusta, Georgia. 2 Henry G. 3 James E,. 4 Edward
S. 5 George, of Troy ; now a Judge of the Supreme Court of New
York. 6 Julia. 7 Charles, of New York city ; late President of the
Chicago, Alton and St. Louis Railroad Company, President of the
Cumberland Coal and Iron Company, President of the Burns Club,
&c. 8 John. 9 Robert Howe, of London.
HOLMES, Uriel, Jr., a native of Hartland, graduated at Yale
College in 1784, and settled in Litchfield as a lawyer a few years
subsequently. He was elected a Representative nine times, was a
Judge of the Litchfield County Court from 1814 to 1817, and during
the latter year he was chosen a member of Congress. While residing
in Litchfield, he was thrown from his carriage in Canton, from the
effects of which he died, May 18, 1827, aged 62. Judge Holmes
married a daughter of the Hon. Aaron Austin, and had three children,
viz, 1 Henry, M. D., a distinguished physician in Hartford. 2 Uriel,
who died July 4, 1818, while a member of the Theological Seminary
at Andover. 3 Caroline, died young.
HUNTINGTON, Charles P., (son of the Rev. Dan Huntington,)
was born in Litchfield, March 24th, 1802; graduated at Harvard
College in 1822 ; settled as a lawyer in Northampton, Mass., and
represented that town in the Legislature in 1834, 1837, 1843, 1852
and 1855 — and at the last session named, was chairman of the Ju-
diciary Committee. In 1855, he was appointed Judge of the Supe-
rior Court for the Suffolk District, which embraces the city of Boston.
Judge Huntington now lives in the vicinity of Boston.
HUNTINGTON, Jabez W., a native of Norwich, graduated at
Yale College in 1806 ; came to Litchfield as a teacher, and student
at law, in 1807, and continued to reside here until October 1834,
when he i-eturned to Norwich — and died there in 1847, in his 60th
year. While a resident of Litchfield, he was elected a Representa-
tive, member of Congress, and Judge of the Superior Court. From
1840 until his death he was a member of the U. S. Senate.
KILBOURN, Colonel Charles, (son of Mr. David Kilbourn,)
was born in Litchfield, March 8, 1758 ; fled to Canada in the revo-
lution, and finally settled near Lake Memphrcmagog, in Stanstead,
L. C, where he erected mills of vai'ious kinds. The locality still
bears the name of Kilbourn' s Mills on many English and American
maps. In the war of 1812, he commanded a corps of provincial troops
known as the Frontier Light Infantry. He was also for many years
a magistrate, and Justice of the Commissionrrs Court. Colonel Kil-
bourn died in Stanstead, June 19, 1834, aged 76.
BIOGRAPHY. 195
KIRBY, Epluaim, (son of Mr. Abraham Kirby,) was born in
Litchfiekl, February 22, 1757 ; studied law and settled in his native
town. He was often chosen a Representative ; appointed Supervisor
of the National Revenue for the State of Connecticut in 1801, and
U. S. Judge for the Territory of Louisiana in 1804. ;"While on his
way to New Orleans, whither the duties of his office called him, he
died at Fort Stoddard, Mississippi Territory, October 2d, 180-1, aged
47. Col. Kirby married Ruth, daughter of Reynold Marvin, Esq.,
and left eight children.
KIRBY, Reynold J\I., Major U. S. A., (son of the preceding,) was
born in Litchfield, March 13, 1790. For many years before his
death, he was Assistant Adjutant General of the Army.
KIRBY, Edmund, Colonel U. S. A., (brother of the preceding,)
was born in Litchfield, April 8, 1794 ; entered the army as a Lieu-
tenant in 1812 ; appointed aid-de-camp to his father-in-law. Major
General Brown ; served in the Blackhawk, Creek and Seminole wars ;
was chief of the Pay Department, and aid-de-camp to the command-
er-in-chief, during the late war with Mexico. He died at Avon
Springs, N. Y., August 20, 1849, aged 55. On the election of Pres-
ident Taylor, Colonel Kirby was frequently referred to in the public
prints as a probable member of the new Cabinet.
MORRIS, James, Jr., was born in Litchfield, January 19, 1752,
and graduated at Yale College ; was a Captain in the Revolution, and
with his company headed one of the columns that led the forlorn
hope at the Siege of Yorktown. After the war, he settled in his na-
tive parish, South Farms, and was for many years a Justice of the
Peace and Representative ; and was also the Founder and Principal
of Morris Academy — an institution which became famous throughout
the country. Captain Morris died in this town, September 9, 1814.
OSBORN, Rev. Ethan, (son of Captain John Osborn,) was born
in Litchfield, August 21, 1758 ; graduated at Dartmouth College
in 1784; and was settled as pastor of the congregational church in
Fairfield, N. J., in 1789. In this small rural parish, Mr. Osborn
married 706 couple, attended the funerals of 1500 persons, admitted
to his church about 600 members, baptized 1146 persons, and preach-
ed 10,164 sermons. His last sermon was preached in 1855, when in
his 97th year. On Sunday, January 24, 1858, he attended sei'vice,
addressed the audience in an appropriate mannei", and made the
concluding prayer — he then being 99 years and 5 months old. He
died in Fairfield, May 1, 1858, in his lOOth year. He was pastor of
the church in that place 54 years.
PECK, John M., D. D., (son Qf Mr. Asa Peck,) was born in Litch-
field, October 31, 1789, and became a celebrated Baptist preacher in
Illinois. He' was a diligent student, and wrote and published much
— especially in relation to the history of the Valley of the Mississippi.
The degree of Doctor of Divinity was conferred upon him by Har-
vard College in 1853. Dr. Peck was an eloquent pulpit orutor, and
one of the most popular men in Illinois — so much so that the whig
party of that State once nominated him as their candidate for Gov-
ernor. He died at his residence in Rock Spring, 111., in 1858. "
100 HISTORY OF LITCJIIFIELD.
PECK, Willinm V., of Portsmoutli, Ohio, one of the present Judges
of the Supreme Court of tliat State, was born of Litehfiehl parents in
Cayuga county, New York, wlierc his father, (Mr. Virgil Peck,)
died during his infancy. When the subject of this paragraph was
tliree years oUl, his mother returned with him to this town, and sub-
sequently married Dr. Abel Cntlin, in whose family he was brought
up. After spending about twenty years in this village, he settled as
a, lawyer in' Ohio.
PECK, Professor WiUinm G., (son of Mr. Alfred Peck,) was born
in Litchlield, October 16, 1820 ; graduated at West Point, where he
w^-^s for a few years Assistant Piofessor of Mathematics. As Lieu-
tenant of Topographical Engineers in the U. S. Army, he was asso-
ciated with Colonel Fremont in his celebrated Exploring Expeditions.
tie has since been a Professor in the University of Michigan ; and is
now Professor of Mathematics in Columbia College, New York. lie
married Elizabeth M., daughter of Professor Charles Davies, LL. D.
PHELPS, Samuel Shether, (son of Captain John Phelps,) was
born on Chestnut Hill, in the house now owned and occupied by Mr.
AVillis Law, May 13, 1793 ; graduated at Yale College and the Litch-
field Law School, and settled in Middlebury, Vermont. Having been
successively a Paymaster in the war of 1812, aid-de-camp to Governor
Galusha, Colonel, member of the Council of Sensors, member of the
Legislative Council, and Judge of the Supreme Court, he was elected
a Senator in Congress in 1S38 — an olfice which held for 12 years.
As a lawyer and statesman, he ranked with Clay, Webster, Critten-
den and Clayton. Judge Phelps died in 1857.
PIERCE, Colonel John, (son of Mr. John Pierce, of Litchfield,)
early entered the public service, and rose to the rank of Paymaster
General in the Army, and was a Commissioner for settling the ac-
counts of the army. Though his i>arents never resided out of Litch-
field after their marriage. Colonel Pierce is said to have been born
at the house of his maternal grandfather, INIajor John Patterson, in
Earmington. Colonel P. died in New York, August 6, 1788. He
was a brother of the late Miss Sarah Pierce, Founder and Principal
of the Litchfield Female Academy.
PIERPONT, John, (son of Mr: James Pierpont,) was born in
Litchfield, April G, 1785 ; graduated at Yale College and at the
Lit.chfield Law School, and settled in Newburyport, Massachusetts,
as a lawyer. Abandoning the legal pi-ofession, he entered the ministry
of the Unitarian denomination, and was for many years pastor of
the Ilollis-street church, Boston. He is alike distinguished as a poet,
preacher and lecturer. Several editions of his Airs of Palestine, as
well as of his other poems, have been published. Mr. Pierpont now
resides in Medford, Mass.
PIERPONT, Robert, (son of Mr. David Pierpont,) was born in
Litchfield, May 4, 1701 ; studied law, and settled in Rutland, Ver-
mont, his present residence. He has been Lieutenant Gov,ernor of
that State, and Judge of the Supreme Court.
%.
BIOLiRArilY. l'J7
PIERPONT, John, (brother of the preceihng,) was born in Liteh-
fii'ld, September 10, 1805 ; o-raduated at the Law School in this town,
and settled in Vergennes, Vermont. He is now a Judge of tlie Su-
preme Court of that State, and has hekl various other oiliceB.
SEDGWICK, Albert, was born in Cornwall Hollow in the year
1802; removed to Litchfield in 1830, and continueil to reside here
for the succeeding 25 years. Li 1834, he was appointed High Sher-
iff of this county, an oifice which he continued to hold (with the ex-
ception of one term of three years,) until 1854 — when he was ap-
pointed by the Legislature Commissioner of the School Fund of Con-
necticut; In 1 855, he removed to Hartford, his present residence.
SEYMOUR, Horatio, LL. D., (son of Major Moses Seymour,)
Avas born in Litchfield, May 31st, 1778 ; graduated at Yale College
and at the Litchfield Law School ; and settled in Middlebury, Vt.,
where he died a year or two since. He was a member of the State
Council from ISO'.) to 181G ; and of the United States Senate from
1821 to 1833. In 1834, he was the AVhig candidate for Governor
of Vermont, but the anti-masonic candidate was elected. He was
also for a few years Judge of Probate. Judge Seymour received the
degree of Doctor of Laws from his alma raater in 1847.
SEYMOUR, Henry, (brother of the preceding,) was born in Litch-
field, May 30, 1780 ; settled as a merchant at Pompey, Onondaga
county, N. Y., where he became wealthy. Removing to Utica, he
died there, August 26, 1837. He was a Representative, Senator,
Canal Commissioner, Mayor of LTtica, and President of the Farmers'
Loan and Trust Company. The Hon. Horatio Seymour, LL. D.,
late Governor of New York, is his son.
vSEYMOUR, Origen Storrs, (son of Ozias Seymour, Esq., and
grandson of Major Seymour,) was born in Litchfield, Feb. 9, 1804 ;
graduated at Yale College in 1824; settled as a lawyer in his na-
tive town. He has been a Representative, Speaker of the House,
and member of Congress, and is now a Judge of the Superior Court.
SHELDON, Daniel, Jr., (son of Dr. Daniel Sheldon,) was born in
the adjoining town of "Washington in 1780, and during the following
year his parents removed to Litchfield ; and here the subject of this
sketch continued to reside until he entered public life. Graduating at
.the Litchfield Law School in 1799, he accepted a clerkship in the
Treasury Department, and retained it until the appointment of Mr.
Gallatin as Ambassador to France, Avhen he was nominated and con-
firmed as Secretary of Legation to that country. When the Ambas-
sador was re-called, Mr. Sheldon remained in France as Charge d'
Affaires until the arrival of Mr. Gallatin's successor. He died in
Marseilles, April 14, 1828, aged 48. His funeral was attended by
all the foreign ministers and consuls present in the city, and the flags
of all the American ships in port were placed at half-mast.
SKINNER, Roger, (son of Gen. Timothy Skinner,) was born in
Litchfield, June 10, 1773; became a lawyer, and removed from this
HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD, 198
town to Sandy Hill, N. Y., in 180G, where he was elected a Repesen-
tative in 1810, 1811 and 1812, and a Senator from 1818 to 1821.
In 1820, he was a member of the Council of Appointment ; from
1815 to 1819, U. S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York ;
and from 1819 until his death, Judge of the U. S. District Court.
On being appointed Judge, he became a resident of Albany, at which
])lace he died August 19, 1825. lie was an intimate fi-icnd of the
Hon. Martin Van Buren, who, in a recent letter to the author, says —
" Being a widower myself, and he a bachelor, we twice kept house
together, and did so at the period of his lamented death. I was with
him through his last illness, held his hand when he died, and mourned
for him as for a sincere and affectionate friend." The visit of Mr.
Van Buren to this town, with Mr. S., about 1820, is well remembered.
SKINNER, Richard, LL. D., (brother of the preceding,) was
born in Litchfield, May 30, 1778 ; graduated at the Law School in
his native town, and settled in Manchester, Vermont in 1800, He
beciime State's Attorney, Speaker of the House, Judge of Probate,
member of Congi-ess, Chief Justice of the State, and Governor. He
received the degree of LL. D. from Middlebury college. Governor
Skinner died in Middlebury, May 23, 1833, aged 55.
TALLMADGE, Frederick A., (son of Colonel Benjamin Tall-
madge,) was born in Litchfield, August 29, 1792 ; graduated at Yale
College in 1811 ; and settled as a lawyer in New York city — his
present residence. From 1834 to 1836 he was an Alderman ; from
1836 to 1840, a member of the State Senate, of which body he was
elected President; from 1840 to 1845, and from 1848 to 1853, he
was Recorder of the City, and Chief Justice of the Police Court ;
and from 1846 to 1848, he was a member of Congress. For two or
three years past, Mr. Tallmadge has held the office of Superinten-
dent of Police in New York — a very important and responsible post.
TRACY, General Uriah, a native of Norwich and a graduate of
Yale College, settled as a lawyer in Litchfield in 1780, and here spent
his entire professional life. He was a Representative at nine ses-
sions, member of Congress three years, and U. S. Senator eleven
years ; and rose to the rank of Major General of militia. He was one
of the most brilliant men of his day. General Tracy died in Wash-
ington city in 1807, and was the first person buried in the congress-
ional cemeteiy.
WELCH, John, (son of Major David Welch,) was born in Litch-
field, September 23, 1759 ; graduated at Yale College in 1778 ; set-
tled as a merchant in his native town, [and continued to reside here
until his death, which took place December 26, 1845. He was suc-
cessively a .Justice of the Peace, Representative, Senator, member of
the Constitutional Convention, Associate Judge of the County Court,
and a candidate for Congress. He was successful in business, and
left a large estate.
Wfi
O^^Tt^
BIOGRAPHY. ' 199
"WOLCOTT, Oliver, Jr., LL. D., was born in Litchfield, January
11, 1760 ; and died in New York, June 2, 1833. He graduated at
Yale College, and was successively Compti'oller of this State, Auditor
and Secretary of the United States Treasury, Judge of the United
States Circuit Court, President of the Bank of America, President of
the Constitutional Convention of Connecticut, and Governor of his
native State from 1817 to 1827. He was one of the most illustrious
statesmen of the early days of the republic — the intimate friend and
adviser of Washington, Adams and Hamilton ; and, for some time
previous to his decease, he was the last surviving member of Wash-
ington's Cabinet.
WOLCOTT, Frederick, (brother of the preceding,) was born in
Litchfield, November 2, 1767; graduated at Yale College in 1787,
and died in his native town May 28, 1837. For more than forty
years he was constantly in public life — as Clerk of the Courts, Judge
of Probate, Re])resentative, member of the State Council, Senator,
«S:c. No man ever lived in the town who enjoyed more implicitly
the confidence of the public. There was a dignity and nobleness in
his person and manner which left their impx'ess on all who camo
within the sphere of his influence.
WOODRUFF, General Morris, (son of Mr. James Woodruff,) was
born in Litchfield, September 3, 1777; educated at Morris Academy,
and was bred a merchant. He commenced his mercantile life with
Messrs. David Leavitt and Simeon Harrison ; and after his con-
nection with them was dissolved, he prosecuted the business chiefly
on his own account for many years. He was through life much em-
ployed as Executor, Administrator, and Commissioner, in settling
estates, and as Arbitrator, Auditor and Committee appointed by the
Courts. He was an active and influential member of the church and
ecclesiastical society, and of the community generally to which he be-
longed ; repeatedly discharged the duties of various public offices ;
represented the town of Litchfield in the Legislature fourteen sessions,
and was a magistrate of the county twenty-six years. In 1818, he
was appointed Brigadier General of the Sixth Brigade ; and in 1824,
the Legislature appointed him Major General of the Third Division.
From 1829j until his death — a period of eleven years — he held the
office of a Judge of the Couny Court, and that of Commissioner which
succeeded it ; and in November, 1832, he was chosen by the voters
of the State at large, an Elector of President and Vice President of
the United States. In all the affairs of life. General Woodruff was
distinguished by gi'eat activity, energy, perseverance, accuracy and
fidelity to whatever trust he assumed. Of high integrity himself, he
was stern in requiring from others observance of its dictates. Ready
to do justice to others ; keenly alive to every sense of wrojig ; pene-
trating in his scrutiny into the conduct and motives of others ; con-
vincing I'ather than persuasive in his intercourse with men, he impelled
their concurrence in his views by producing confidence in the sound-
ness of his judgment and the correctness of his purposes. He was
200 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Steadfast in his friendships, and few men retain with equal warmth
the intimacies begun in early years. The associates of his boyhood
were through life his most confiding and devoted friends. The de-
pendance of his neighbors and friends on him for advice and assistance
was very great, their confidence was never abused, their reliance nev-
er fliiled ; and so his means of usefulness among them were large, and
his influence extensive. In his domestic relations he was affectionate
and kmd — inflexible in retaining a high standard of both filial and
])arcntal duty — and never failed to show that the highest good of
those who were dependent upon him, was his invariable motive in all
liis intercourse with them. General Woodrufli" was nearly six feet in
height, stout, erect, active, and of more than ordinary physical
strength. Of robust and vigorous frame and sound constitution, his
health was rarely interrupted, and promise of a green old age
seemed singularly certain. l>ut in the spring of 1839, his system
received a shock followed by an affection of the liver, under which he
declined, and on the 17th of May, 1840, he died — illustrating in his
dying hour the peace and consolation of the Christian's hope and con-
fidence in the Saviour in whose church on earth he had been num-
l)ered for many years. His remains are interred in our East Bury-
ing-Ground, where a handsome monument has been erected to his
memory. General Woodrufl[" married Candace, eldest daughter of
Lewis Catlin, Esq., of Ilarwinton. Their children were — 1 George
C., who still resides in Litchfield, and is well known to our readers
as a prominent member of the Bar of Litchfield county. 2. Lucy
M., m. Hon. O. S. vSeymour, of Litchfield. 3 Lewis B., Judge of the
Superior Court for the city of New York. 4. Reuben M., M. U., a
physician of high attainments, died young in 1849. 5 James, died in
infancy.
WOODRUFF, Clark, (brother of the preceding,) was born in
Litchfield, August 23, 1791, and was educated at Morris Academy.
In 1810, he left his native town, and, passing down the Ohio and
Mississii)pi rivers, he soon established himself as a lawyer in St.
Francisville, in the present State of Louisiana. For many years he
was reputed one of the ablest, most eloquent and successful advocates
at the bar ; and in the spring of 1828, he was appointed Judge
of the Eighth Judicial District of the State of Louisiana. He also
held the ollk>e of State Auditor, and Commissioner cliarged with the
subject of Public Improvements in that State, in which he took an
active interest. He was also a Trustee af Louisiana College. On
resigning his judgeship, he removed to New Orleans, where he resi-
ded until a short time previous to his death. He departed this life
at his country seat at Carrollton, on the Mississippi, about six miles
above thfjt city, on the 2oth of November, 1851. Judge Woodruff
was a polished, courtly gentleman, of fine address, pleasing manners,
and cultivated mind. He married Mati4da Bradford, of St. Francis-
ville, a highly accomplished lady, by whom he had three children.
The only survivor, Mrs. Octavia Besanqon, now lives at Carrollton
at the late residence of her father.
.Hit
O, c»^
APPENDIX.
Colonial anil .Statt ©iters 0( C-onntttitui
[Ccmpfete, from 1635 to 1S59.]
Allyn, John, Secretary of State
Andros, Sir Edmund, Governor
Backup:, Thomas, Lieut. Governor
Baldwin, Roger S., Governor
Baldwin, Edward Law, Executive Secretary, 1844
Barnard, Henry, Supt. Common Schools,
Beardslee, Cyrus H., Executive Secretary
Beers, Seth P.,* School Fund Commissioner
Beers, Seth P.,* Supt. Common Schools
Betts, Thaddeus, Lieutenant Governor
Birge, Alonzo W., Treasurer
Bissell, Clark, Governor
Bissell, George A., Executive Secretary
Billings, Noyes, Lieut, Governor
Bishop, James, Deputy Governor
Booth, Reuben,! Lieut. Governor
Boyd, John,* Secretary of State
Brown, Jeremiah, Treasurer
Bradley, Charles W., Secretary of Stale
Buckingham, AVilliam A., Governor
Buell, William IL, Comptroller
Burnham, Alfred A., Lieut. Governor
Burr, Peter, Deputy Governor
Calef, Arthur, Treasurer
Camp, Daniel W., Treasurer
Camj), David N., Supt. Common Schools
Carrington, Abijaii, Comptroller
Catlin, Abijah,* Comptroller
Catlin, Abijah,* School Fund Commissioner
Catlin, George S.,t Executive Secretary
Catlin, Julius,! Lieutenant Governor
Clarke, Daniel, Secretary of State
Clarke, Thomas, Treasurer
>t chosen.
No. year
1664
31
1687
2
1849
I
1844
2
1844
2 ■
1849
5
1827
4
1825
24
1845
4
1834
1
1846
1
1847
2
1847
2
1846
1
1683
7
1844
2
1858
2
1835
3
1846
1
1858
2
1858
2
J 857
i
1723
2
1855
1
1854
1
1857
2
1844
2
1847
o
1851
1
1831
2
1858
2
1658
8
1851
1
202 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Cleveland, Chauncey F., Governor
Cleveland, Mason, Comptroller
Cleveland, Mason, Sch. Fund Cojmmissioner
Coe, Frederick P., Treasurer
Colt, Elisha, Comptroller
Colt, Peter, Treasurer
Cullick, John, Secretary of State
Day, Albert, Lieutenant Governor
Day, Thomas,* Secretary of State,
Dunham. John, Cornptioller
Dutton, }Ienry,t Governor
Edwards, Henry W., Governor
Ellsworth, William Wolcott, Governor
Ellsworth, Pinckney W., Executive Secretary 1838
Erving, R. Augustus, Executive Secretary
Field, William, Comptroller
Field, William, Lieut. Governor
Fitch, Thomas, Deprety Gorornor
Fitch, Thomas, Cirovernor
Foote, Samuel A., Governor
Foote, Joseph F., Execiitive Seci'etary
Gilbert. Joseph B., Treasurer
Gold, Nathan, Deputy Governor
Goodrich, Chauncey, Lieut. Governor
Graves, Henry B.,* Executive Secretary
Griswold, IMatthew, Lieut. Governor
Griswold, Matthew, Governor
Griswold, Roger, Lieut. Governor
Griswold, Roger, Governor
Hawley, Charles, Lieut. Governor
Haynes, John, Deputy Governor
]Iaynes, John, Governor
Hillhouse, James, School Fund Commissioner 1810
Hitchcock, William R., Executive Secretary
Hinman, Royal R.,* Secretary of State
Hoadly, Charles J., State Librarian
Holabird, William S.,* Lieut. Governor
Holley, Alexander H.,* Lieut. Governor
Holley, Alexander II.,* Governor
Hopkins, Pldward, Secretary' of State
Hopkins, Edwai-d, Deputy Governor
Hopkins, Edward, Governor
Hovey, James A., Executive Secretary
Huntington, Jabez W,.* Executive Secretary
Huntington, Jedediah, Treasurer
Huntingion, .Samuel, Lieut. Governor
Huntington, vSamuel, Governor
Huntington, Roger, Comptroller
IngersoU, Jonathan, Lieut. Governor
1842
2
1846
1
1854
1
1856
1
1806
13
178'J
5
1648
10
1856
1
1810
25
1854
1
1854
1
1833
4
1838
4
1838
4
1850
3
183G
2
1855
1
1750
4
1754
12
1834
1
1854
2
1844
4
1708
16
1818
2
1854
1
1769
15
1784
2
1809
2
1811
1
1838
4
1640
5
1039
8
1810
15
1834
1
183.5
7
1856
3
1842
2
1854
1
1857
1
1639
1
1643
6
1640
7
1842
2
1820
I
1789
1
1784
2
1786
10
1834
1
1816
7
COLONIAL ANI> STATE OFFICERS. 20S
Jones, William, Depnly Governor 1G9'2 5
Kendrick, Green, Lieut. Governor 1851 1
Kilbourn, Henry, Comptroller 1838 4
KilboLirn, F. K.,* Executive Secretary 1857 1
Ivimberl}'. Eleazer, Secretary of Stale 1696 13
Kingsbury, Andrew, Comptroller 1791 3
Kingsbury, Andrew, Treasurer 1794 24
Lamb, Joseph G., Comptroller 1857 1
Law, Jonathan, Deputy Governor 1724 17
Law, Jonathan, Governor 1'41 9
Lawrence, John, Treasurer 1769 19
Leet, William, Deputy Governor 1069 7
Leet, William, Governor 1676 7
Ludlow, Roger, Deputy Governor 1639 3
McCurdy, Charles J., Lieut. Governor 1847 2
Mason, John, Deputy Governor 1660 9
Mather, John P. C, Secretary of State 1850 3
Merrill, Alexander, Comptroller 1855 1
Mills, Roger XL, Secretary of State 1849 1
Minor, William T., Governor 1855 2
Mix, Silas, Executive Secretary 1833 4
Palmer, John C., School Fund Commissioner 1850 2
Pardee, Dwight W., Executive Secretary 1846 1
Perry, Oliver H., Secretary of State 1854 1
Peters, John S., Lieut. Governor 1827 4
Peters, John S., Governor 1831 2
Phelps, Elisha, Comptroller 1830 4
Phelps, Noah A., Secretary of State 1842 2
Philbrick, John D., Supt Common Schools 1855 2
Pinney, Rufus G., Comptroller 1850 3
Pitkin, William, Treasurer 1678 1
Pitkin, William, Deputy Governor 1754 12
Pitkin, William, Governor 1766 3
Plant, David, Lieutenant Governor 1823 4
Piatt, Orville H.,t Secretary of State 1857 1
Pomeroy, Ralph, Comptroller 1789 2
Pond, Charles IL, Lieut. Governor 1850 3
Pond, Charles IL, Governor 1853 1
Porter, John, Comptroller 1794 12
Prentis, Edward, Treasurer 1856 1
Rider, Hiram, Treasurer 1838 4
Robertson, John B,, Secretary of State 1847 2
Robinson, L. F., Executive Secretary 1849 1
Saltonstall, Gurdon, Governor 1707 17
Sedgwick, Albert,* School Fund Commiss'r 1854 5
Seymour, Thomas H., Governor 1850 3
Smith, Henry D., Treasurer 1850 1
Smith, John Cotton,* Lieut. Governor 1811 2
Smith, John Cotton,* Governor 1813 4
iOl
HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Spencer, Isaac, Treasurer 18! 8 10
Sperry, Neheiniah 1)., Secretaiy of State 1855 2
Stanley, Caleb, Secretary of Stale 1709 .'5
Stanley, Nathaniel, Treasurer 1749 G
Stoddard, Ebenezer, Lieut. Governor 1833 4
Stearns, Edwin, Treasurer 1852 2
Talcott, John, Treasurer 1652 7
Talcott, John, (Jr,) Treasurer 1659 19
Talcott, Joseph, Deputy Governor 1724 —
Talcott, Joseph, Governor 1724 17
Talcott, .loseph, Treasurer 1755 14
Thomas, James, Comptroller 1819 11
Tomlinson, Gideon, Governor 1827 4
Toucey, Isaac^ Governor 1846 1
Treadwell, Jolin, Lieut. Governor 1798 11
Treadwell, John, Governor, 1809 2
Treat, Robert, Deputy Governor 1676 17
Treat, Robert, Governor 1683 13
Trumb'rtll, Jonathan, Deputy Governor 176G 3
Trumbull, Jonathan, Governor 1769 15
Trumbull, Jonathan, (Jr,) Lieut. Governor 1796 2
Trumbull, Jonathan, (Jr,) Governor 1798 11
Trumbull, Gurdon, Sch. Fund Commissioner 1850 1
Trumbull, Joseph, Governor 1849 1
Trumbull, J. Hammond, State Librarian 1854 2
Tyler, Daniel P., Secretary of State 1844 2
Wadsworth, James, Comptroller 1786 2
Warner, Samuel L., Executive Secretary 1853 1
Waldo, Loren P., Sch. Fund Commissioner 1852 1
Webster, John, Deputy Governor 1655 1
Webster, John, Governor 1656 1
Weed, Hiram, Secretary of State 1850 (died)
Welles, Thomas, Treasurer 16S9 5
AVelles, Thomas, Secretary of State 1640 8
Welles, Thomas, Deputy Governor 1654 4
Welles, Thomas, Governor 1655 2
Welles, Gideon, Comptroller 1835 3
White, JabezL., Treasurer 1842 2
Whiting, William, Treasurer 1641 7
Whiting, Joseph, do. • 1679 3
Whiting, John, do. 1718 21
Wildman, Frederick S., Treasurer 1857 1
Winthrop, John, Deputy Governor 1658 1
Winthrop, John, Governor 1657 9
Winthrop, Fitz John, Governor 1698 9
Wolcott, Roger, Deputy Governor 1741 9
Wolcott, Roger, Governor 1750 4
Wolcott, Oliver,* Lieut. Governor 1786 10
JUPfiES OF THE SUPREME COURT.
20')
Woloott, Oliver,* Governor
Wolcott, Oliver, (Jr,)* Comptroller
Wolcott, Oliver, (Jr,)* Governor
Wyllys, George, Deputy Governor
Wyllys, George, Governor
AVyllys, liezekiah, Secretary of State
Wyllys, George, do. do.
Wyllys, Samuel, do. do.
1790
1788
1817
1G41
1G42
1712
1735
1796
2
1
10
1
1
2.5
61
14
* Chosen from Litchfield co.
t Natives of the co. hut residing elsewhere.
Bwpx'm Coutt iiub .Supreme Court at (trror-S.
CHIEF JUSTICES.
[Previous to 17S4, the Dcpiity Governors were the Chief Justices.]
Samuel Huntington, Norwich
Richard Law, New London
Eliphalet Dyer, Windham
Andrew Adams, Litchfield
Jesse Root, Coventry
Stephen Mix Mitchell, Wethersfield
Tapping Reeve, Litchfield
Zephaniah Swift, Windham
Stephen Titus Ilosmer, Middletown
David Daggett, New Haven
Thomas S. Williams, Hartford
Samuel Church, Litchfield
Henry M. Waite, Lyme
William L. Storrs, Hartford
■"irst chosen.
1784
1785
1789
1793
1798
1807
1814
1815
1819
1833
1834
1847
1854
1856
No. years.
\
4
4
5
9
7
1
4
14
1
13
7
2
in office.
ASSOCIATE JUDGES.
William Pitkin, Hartford
Richard Christophers, New London
Peter Burr, Fairfield
Samuel Eells, Milf brd .
John Haynes, Hartford
Jonathan Law, Milford
John Hamlin, Middletown
Joseph Talcott, Hartford
Matthew Allyn, Windsor
John Hooker, Farraington
Fir>t chosen. No. years
1711
2
1711
21
1711
7
1711
29
1713
1
1715
9
1716
0
1721
1
1723
9
1723
9
206
HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Janie>; Wadsv.'ortli, Durham
Koger WuU'ott, Windsor
Joseph Whiting, New Haven
Elisha Williams, WetliersfielJ
AVilliam P.itkin, Hartford,
Ebenezer Silliman, Fairfield
John Bulkley, Colchester
Samuel Lynde, Saybrook
Daniel Edwards, Hartford
Roger Woleott, Jr. Windsor
Jonathan Trumbull, Lebanon
Joseph Fowler, Lebanon
Benjamin Hall, Wallingford
Robert Walker, Stratford
IMatthew Griswold. Lyme
Eliphalet Dyer, AVindham
Roger Sherman, New Haven
William Pitkin, Hartford
AVm. Samuel Johnson, Stratford
Samuel Huntington, Norwich
Richard Law, New London
Oliver Ellsworth, Windsor
Andrew Adams, Litchfield
Jesse Root, Coventry
Charles Chauncey, New Haven
Erastus Woleott, East AA'^indsor
Jonathan Sturges, Fairfield
Benjamin Huntington, Norwich
Ashur Miller, Middletown
Stephen Mix Mitchell, Middletown
Jonathan Ingersoll, New Haven
Tapping Reeve, Litchfield
Zephaniah Swift, AVindham
John Trumbull, Hartford
William Edmond, Newtown
Nathaniel Smith, AVoodbury
Jeremiah G. Brainard, New London
Simeon Baldwin, New Haven
Roger Griswold, Lyme
John Cotton Smith, Sharon
Calvin Goddard, Norwich
Stephen Titus Hosmer, Middletown
James Gould, Litchfield
John T. Peters, Hartford
Asa Chapman, New Haven
William Bristol, New Haven
James Lanman, Norwich
David Daggett, New Haven
Thomas S. Williams, Hartford
1725
27
1732
9
1732
13
1740
3
1741
13
1743
23
1745
8
1752
3
1753
10
1754
5
1754 1
(declined)
1754
6
1759
7
1760
12
1765
4
1766
23
1766
23
1769
20
1772
1
1773
11
1784
1
1785
4
1789
4
1789
9
1789
4
1789
3
1792
13
1792
6
1793
2
1795
12
1798
8
1798
16
1801
14
1801
18
1805
14
1806
13
1806
23
1806
12
1807
2
1809
2
1815
3
1815
3
1816
3
1818
16
1818
7
1819
7
1826
3
1826
7
1829
5
COMMISSIONERS OP THE SUPERIOR COURT. 207
Clark Bissell, Norwalk 1829 10
Samuel Church, Litchfield 1833 14
Jabez W. Huntington, Litchfield 1834 6
Henry M. AVaite, Lyme 1834 20
Roger M. Sherman, Fairfield 1839 3
William L. Storrs, Hartford 1840 IG
Joel Hinman, New Llaven 1842 in ollice.
William W. Ellsworth, Hartford 1847
David C. Sanford, New Milford 1854 „
Thomas B. Butler, Norwalk 1855 „
Origen S. Seymour, Litchfield 1855 „
John D. Park, Norwich 1855 „
Loren P. Waldo, Tolland 1855 „
Charles J. Mc Curdy, Lyme 1856 „
COMMISSIONERS OF THE SUPERIOR COURT.
[Appointed hy the Conit for the term of two years. This office was created in 1 85-1
Birdsey Baldwin, Cornwall.
J. H. Beach, Plymouth.
Seth P. Beers, Litchfield.
Frederick D. Beeman, Litchfield.
Merritt Bronson, New Hartford.
Edward Carrington, Colebrook.
William Cothren, Woodbury.
George L. Fields, Watertown.
Wiiit Garrett, New Hartford,
Joseph I. Gaylord, Goshen.
Albert N. Hodge, Roxbury.
Carlos Holcomb, New Hartford.
John LI. Plubbard, Litchfield.
P. K. Kilbourn, Litchfield.
Leister Loorais, Barkhamsted.
Charles P. Lyman, Barkhainsted.
Stephen D. Mann, New Hartford.
John G. Mitchell, Salisbury.
V/illiam L. Ransom, Litchfield.
John G. Reid, Kent.
Jhon H. Russell, Salisbury.
Henry S. Sanford, New Milford.
Edward W. Seymour, Litchfield.
Nathaniel Smith, Woodbury.
Oliver A. G. Todd, New Milford.
John S. Turrell, New Milford.
George Wheaton, Cornwall.
Walter R. Whittlesey, Salisbury.
208
HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
%\\5tm ,of tk \)mt far the €m\\t\) af f itcMellr,
RESIDING IN THE TOWN OF LITCHFIELD.
[Complete Koll, from tlie organization of the County to tlie present time. Uu-
til 1851, aUJusticcs of the Peace in Connecticut were appointed annually by the
Legislature. They are now elected by the People for the term of two years.]
First chosen.
1774 Andrew Adams
1796 John Allen
1828 Josepli Adams
1836 E. S. Abeniethy
1847 Charles Adams
1762 Isaac Baldwin
1781 Abraham Bradley
1803 Nathan Bassett
1810 Asa Bacon
1817 Seth P. Beers
1817 Jonathan Buel
1819 James Birge
1820 Isaiah Bunce
1828 Joseph Birge
1835 Joseph Birge, Jr.
1836 Samuel F. Bolles
1839 William Bassett
1840 Ozias B. Bassett
1840 Francis Bacon
J 845 Samuel G. Braman
1846 Frederick D. Bcemau
1846 Samuoi Brookci", Jr
1847 Frederick Bucl
1847 Philip S. Beebe
1850 Charles 0. Beldeii
1850 David Benton
1851 Chester G. Birge
1851 Junius Burgess
1854 Cliarles C. Buel
1856 William Bisscll
First chos(
311.
1753
Timothy Collins
1812
Levi Catlin
1836
Dan Catlin
1838
Edward Camp
1838
Edward Cowles
1839
Ralph G. Camp
1840
Cyrus Catlin
1846
Samuel Church
1846
Garner Curtis
1847
Phineas W. Camp
1847
Walter Coo
1858
John Catlin
1798 Julius Deming
1842
Stephen Deming
1838
Samuel H. Dudley
1858
Orson Emons
1849
Amos Farnsworth
1854
Henry Frisbie
1858
Royal A. Ford
1818
Nathaniel Goodwin
u 1832
Leonard Goodwin
1838
Chester C. Goslec
1838
Julius Griswold
1841
John Garnsoy
1849
Albin Guild "'
1849
Henry B. Graves
1851
Edward Garnsey
1856
George Garnsey
1752
Thomas Harrison
1808
Uriel Holmes
JUSTICES OP THE PEACE.
209
First chosen. First cliosi
1808 Uriel Holmes 1838
1817 Jabez W. Huntington 1847
1820 Ephraim S. Hall 1819
1820 Elihu Harrison 1841
1828 Asa Hopkins 1846
1835 William Harrison 1851
1838 Edward Hopkins . 1783
1843 G. H. Hollister 1819
1845 Norman Hall 1858
1S46 Alanson Hall 1754
1852 John H. Hubbard 1772
1854 Levi Heaton 1779
1854 George A. Hickox 1797
1830 Truman Kilbourn 1808
1835 Putnam Kilbourn 1808
1846 Homer Kilbourn 1823
1858 P. K. Kilbourn 1824
1802 Seth Landon 1826
1819 Ozias Lewis 1829
1836 Abner Landon 1840
1852 A. S. Lewis 1843
1788 James Morris 1827
1803 Roger Marsh 1847
1809 Phineas Miner 1850
1842 Augustus Morej 1856
1846 Lemuel 0. Meafoy 1856
1849 Samuel A. Merwin 1858
1854 Garry H. Minor 1792
1858 Jacob Morse, Jr. 1807
1843 Isaac Newton 1844
1847 WiUiam Norton 1845
1849 William Newton 1848
1847 John A. Oviatt ^759
1804 Mark Prindle 1768
1836 A. J. Pickett 1793
1837 Edward Pierpont 1800
1838 James M. Pierpont 1804
27
Manly Peters
Leonard Pierpont
Ithamar Page
Frederick W. Plumb
Prentice Parkhurst
Christopher C. Palmer
Tapping Reeve
Stephen Russell
William L. Ransom
Elisha Sheldon
Reuben Smith
Jedediah Strong-
Moses Seymour
Aaron Smith
Peter Sherman
Enos Stoddard
David C. Sanford
Simeon Sanford
Origen S. Seymour
Henry Skilton
Wm. L. Smedley
Trviman Smith
Daniel B. Stoddard
George A. Smith
Abraham C. Smith
Edward W. Seymour
Newton Smith
Uriah Tracy
Benjamin Tallmadge
Stephen Trowln-idge
Uri Taylor
Oliver A. G. Todd
Jacob Woodruff
David Welch
John Welch
Frederick Wolcott
Roger N. Whittlesey
210 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
First chosen. First chosen.
1814 Morris Woodruff 1840 Jason Wliiting
1826 Hugh P. Welch 1845 James B. Woodruff
1832 George 0. Woodruff 1845 Douglas Watson
1837 Enoch J. Woodruff 1847 Isaac B. Woodruff
1840 Charles L. Webb 1850 Tomlinson Wells
DISTRICT OF LITCHFIELD.
JUDGES.
{District organized in 1747. Judges appointed annually by the Legislatui'e nntil
1851. Since elected annually by the People.]
Ebenezer Marsh, of Litchfield
■Appointed.
1747
No. vears.
25
Oliver Wolcott
u
1772
24
Frederick Wolcott
u
1796
41
Elisha S. Aberiiethy
Phineas Miner
a
<.(.
1837
1838
1
2
Ralph G. Camp
Elisha S. Aberiiethy
a
a
1840
1842
2
2
Ralph G. Camp
Elisha S. Abernethy
Charles Adams
u
a
1844
' 1846
1847
2
1
3
Oliver A. G. Todd
ti
1850
1
Henry B. Graves
OKver A. G. Todd
1851
1852
1
1
George C. Woodruff
a
1853
1
Charles Adams
((
•1854
3
George C. Woodruff
n
1857
1
Charles Adams
u
1858
in office.
CLERKS.
Isaac Baldwin, Litchfield
1747
25
Hosea Hulbert
3 772
2
Nath'l Brown Beckwith
1774
1
Samuel Lyman
1775
4
Oliver Wolcott, Jr.
1779
2
Thomas Gold
1781
5
COUNTY COURT JUDGES- 211
First appointed. No. years.
Frederick Wolcott " 1786 10
Roger Skinner " 1796 10
Aaron Burr Reeve " 1806 2 •
Elijah Adams " 1808 1
Jabez W. Huntington " 1809 20
Phineas Miner " 1829 8
George C. Woodruff " 1837 • -3
Francis Bacon " 1840 2
Reuben M. Woodruff " 1842 2
Douglas Watson " 1844 1
Willmm E. Dickinson " 18^5 1
Philii) Wells '' 1846 1
George C. Woodruff " 1847 4
Buel Sedgwick " 1851 i
George C. Woodruff " 1852 2
Charles O. Belden " 1854 1
P. K. Kilbourn. " 1 855 3
Edward W. Seymour " 1858 in ofBce
dT'Oitrt jof Conunon fjlcas,
COUNTY OF LITCHFIELD,
and four Aps(x?ii\t«
there were but two
■ the Court iu 1855,
there were no Associate Judges — tlie County Conimissionei-s being tlieir successors.]
CHIEF JUDGES
William Preston, Woodbury
John Williams, Sharon
Oliver Wolcott, Litchfield
Daniel Sherman, Woodbury
Joshua Porter, Salisbury
Aaron Austin, New Hartford
Augustus Pettibone, Norfolk
David S. Boardman, N. Milford
William M. Burrall, Canaan
Ansel Sterling, Sharon
Calvin Butler, Plymouth
Ansel Sterling, Sharon
1751
3
1754
19
1773
19
1786
5
1791
17
1808
8
1816
14
1831
5
1836
2
1838
1
1839
1
1840
2
212 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
First appointed. No. years.
William M. Burrall, Canaan 1842 2
Abijah Catliii, Harwinton 1844 2
Elisha S. Abeniethy, Litchfield 1846 1
Holbrook Curtis, Water town 1847 2
Hiram Goodwin, Barkliamsted 1849 1
Charles B. Phelps, Woodbury 1850 1
Hiram Goodwin, Barkliamsted 1851 1
Charles B. Phelps, Woodbury 1852 2
Hiram Goodwin, Barkliamsted 1854 1
ASSOCIATE JUDGES.
Thomas Chipman, Salisbury
John Williams, Sharon
Samuel Canfield, New Milford
Ebenezer Marsh, Litchfield
Joseph Bird, Salisbury
Noah Hinman, Woodbury
Elisha Sheldon, Litchfield
Increase Moseley, Woodbury
Roger Sherman, New Milford
Daniel Sherman, Woodbury
Bushnell Bostwick, New Milford 1762
Joshua Porter, Salisbury
Samuel Canfield, New Milford
Jedediah Strong, Litchfield
Heman Swift, Cornwall
Aaron Austin, New Hartford
Nathan Hale, Caanan
David Smith, Plymouth
D. N. Brinsmade, Washington
Judson Canfield, Sharon
Birdsey Norton, Goshen
Augustus Pettibone, Norfolk
Uriel Holmes, Litchfield
Moses Lyman, Jr., Goshen
Oliver Burnham, Cornwall
Cyrus Swan, Sharon
Martin Strong, Salisbury
John Welch, Litchfield
William M. Burrall, Canaan
Morris Woodruff, Litchfield
Hugh P. Welch, Litchfield
1751
2
1751
3
1751
4
17''')1
21
1753
1
1754
5
1754
7
1755
25
1759
3
1761
25
1762
14
1772
19
1777
13
1780
11
1786
16
1790
18
1791
18
1791
23
1804
16
1808
7
1809
3
1812
4
1814
O
1815
2
1816
o
1817
2
1817
12
1819
10
1829
7
1829
10
1836
3
MEMBERS OF CONGRESS.
213
inlttlj States 3m\m dum from f ittp'clli tountir.
First chosen. No. years.
Uriah Tracy, Litchfield 1796 11
Elijah Boardman, New Milford 1821 died in office.
Perry Smith, New Milford 1836 6
Truman Smith, Litchfield 1849 5
lleml3trs of diougrcss tlecta ixmw f itcMcltf Counts.
Uriah Tracy, Litchfield 1793 3
Nathaniel Smith, Woodhury 1795 4
John Allen, Litchfield 1797 2
John Cotton Smith, Sharon 1800 6
Benjamin Tallmadge, Litchfield 1801 16
Uriel Holmes, Litchfield 1817 1
Ansel Sterling, Sharon 1821 4
Orange Morwin, New Milford 1825 4
JabezW. Huntington, Litchfield 1829 5
Phineas Miner, Litchfield 1834 1
Lancelot Phelps, Colebrook 1835 4
Truman Smith, Litchfield 1839 8
Origen S. Seymour, Litchfield 1851 4
William W. Welch, Norfolk 1855 2
lumbers of tl]C Comtil
Elisha Sheldon, Litchfield 1761 18
Oliver Wolcott, Litchfield 1771 15
Andrew Adams, Litchfield • 1781 9
Jedediah Strong, Litchfield 1789 1
Heman Swift, Cornwall 1790 12
Tapping Reeve, Litchfield 1792 1
Aaron Austin, New Hartford 1794 24
Nathaniel Smith, Woodbury 1799 6
John Allen, Litchfield . 1800 6
John Cotton Smith, Sharon 1809 1
Judson Canfield, Sharon 1809 6
Frederick Wolcott, Litchfield 1810 9
Noah B. Benedict, Woodbury 1816 '^
Elijah Boardman, New Milford
1817 1
214 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Sciiatars
FOR LITCHFIELD COUNTY — ELECTED BY GENERAL TICKET,
f Under the Constitution of 1818, Senators are elected in place of Members of the
Council, or Assistants.]
Frederick Wolcott, Litchfield
Elijah Boardman, New Milford
Orange Merwiii, New Milford
Seth P. Beers, Litchfield
John Welch, Litchfield
Samuel Church, Salisbuiy
Homer Boardman, New Millbrd
Chosen.
No. years.
1819
4
1819
2
1824
4
1824
1
1825
3
1825
o
O
1828
2
UNDER THE DISTRICT SYSTEM.
[Fifteenth District.]
Phineas Miner, Litchfield 1830 2
William G. Williams, N. Hartford 1832 2
Theron Rockwell, Colebrook 1834 2
James Beebe, Winchester 1836 2
Andrew Abernethy, Harwinton 1838 2
Lambert Hitchcock, Barkhamsted 1840 2
Martin Webster, Torrington 1842 1
Israel Coc, Torrington 1843 1
Abijah Catlin, Harwinton 1844 1
William Beebe, Litchfield 1845 1
Lucius Clarke, Winchester 1846 1
Gideon Hall, Jr., Winchester 1847 1
Roger H. Mills, New Hartford 1848 1
Francis Bacon, Litchfield 1849 1
Samuel W. Coe, Winchester 1850 1
Charles Adams, Litchfield 1851 1
Warren Phelps, Colebrook 1852 1
Elliot Beardsley, Winchester 1853 1
John Boyd, Winchester 1854 1
Charles 0. Belden, Litchfield 1855 1
Gideon H. Hollister, Litchfield 1856 1
George D. Wadhams, Torrington 1857 . 1
Reuben Rockwell, Colebrook 1858 1
Sheldon Osborne, Harwinton 1850 1
OFFICERS OP LITCHFIELD COUNTY,
215
Coiintii ^Ittts.
HIGH SHERIFFS.
First chosen.
No. years.
Oliver Wolcott 1751
21
Lyade Lord 1772
29
John R. Landoii lf?Dl
18
Moses Seymour, Jr., 1819
6
Ozias Seymour 1825
9
Albert Sedgwick 1834
1
Charles A. Judson 18H5
3
Albert Sedgwick 1838
16
Leverett W. Wessells 1854
in office.
COUiXTY TREASUIIERS.
John Catlin, Litchfield, 1751
10
Elisha Sheldon " 1761
18
Reuben Smith " 1779
22
Julius Deming " 1801
13
Abel Catlin " 1814
28
Charles L. Webb " 1842
in office.
COUNTY CLERKS.
Isaac Baldwin 1751
42
Frederick Wolcott 1793
43
Origen S. Seymour 1836
8
Gideon H. HolHster 1844
2
Origen S. Seymour 1846
1
Gideon H. Hollister ] 847
3
Elisha Johnson 1850
1
Frederick D. Beeman 1851
in office
NOTARIES PUBLIC.
[Appointed by the Governor for two years.]
Uriah Tracy
Frederick Wolcott
Setli P. Beers
David C. San ford
Nathan Cooley
George C. Woodruff
0. S. Seymour
J. K. Averill
G. H. Hollister
Francis Bacon
George W. Beers
P. K. Kilbourn
Samuel P. Bolles
Jacob Kilbourn
E. L. Houghton
Francis E. Harrison.
216 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD,
i,orougl] 0f f ittlrficlir.
[Incorporated in 1818.
P R E S I_D_E NTS.
First chosen. No. yean.
Frederick Wolcott 1818 2
Uriel Holmes 1820 4
William Biiel 1824 14
Phineas Miner 1838 1
Joseph Adams 1839 3
Josiali G. Beckwith 1842 11
Garwood Sanford 1853 1
Heniy B. Graves 1854 2
P. K. Kilboum 1856 1
Frederick D. Beeman 1857 1
John H. Hubbard 1858 1
T R E A S U H
ERS.
William Buel
1818
6
Phineas Miner
1824
14
Josiah G. Beckwith
1838
4
Abel Catlin
1842
4
Charles L. Webb
1846
7
Chauncey M. Hooker
1853
3
Henry Ward
1856
1
Edward W. Seymour
1857
2
GLERKS.
Joseph Adams 1818 5
Seth P. Beers 1828 1
Joseph Adams 1824 14
Sylvester Galpin 1838 4
Stephen Trowbridge ' 1842 4
P. K. Kilbourn 1846 7
Albert Stoddard . 1858 1
P. K. Kilbourn 1854 2
Henry W. Buel 1856 1
David E. Bostwick 1857 2
TOWN OFPICEKS.
217
[Borough Officers — Continued.]
BAILIFFS-
[lu the order of their election.]
Abel Catlin
Asa Bacon
Seth P. Beers, (declined.)
Samuel Buel
Ezekiel Lewis
Oliver Goodwin
Stephen Deming
Samuel P. BoUes
Leonard Goodwin
David C. Sanford, (declin'd)
Frederick Deming
Jonathan Carrington
William Demins;
Ebenezer W. Bolles
Erastus A. Lord
James C. Wads worth
Sylvester Galpin
David C. Bulkley
William R. Buel
William Lord
Augustus P. Hinman
A, S. Lewis
Wm. H. Grossman
Edward P. Cheney
George H. Baldwin
Wm. F. Baldwin
ifllDit MmL
TREASURERS.
Cliosen.
No. vears.
John Bird
1721
15
Joseph Bird
1736
2
John Buel
1738
13
William Marsh
1751
4
Supply Strong-
1755
8
Joshua Garrett
1763
5
Reuben Smith
1768
2
Abraham Bradley
1770
6
William Stanton
1776
resigned.
Samuel Lyman
1776
1
Reuben Smith
1777
6
Abraham Bradley
1788
4
Moses Seymour
1787
2
Ebenezer Marsh
1789
1
Timothy Skinner
1790
2
Abraham Bradley .
1792
2
Benjamin Tallmadge
1794
7
Ebenezer Marsh
1801
2
James Gould
1803
8
Samuel Buel
1811
25
Isaac Lawrence
1836
5
William F. Baldwin
1841
3
28
218
HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
George Dewey 1844 1
George C. Woodruff 1845 1
Francis Bacon 1846 1
George C. Woodruff 1847 4 .
Frederick D. Beeman 1851 :}
Stephen Trowbridge 1854 1
Lemuel 0. Meafoy 1855 1
William F. Baldwin 1856 in office.
CLERKS
John Marsh
1721
9
John Bird
1730
5
Joseph Bird
1735
1
John Bird
1736
o
Josliua Garrett
1708
4
Isaac Baldwin
1742
31
Jedediah Strong
1773
16
Moses Seymour
1789
37
Elihu Harrison
1826
10
Samuel P. Bolles
1836
4
Sylvester Galpin
18.40
1
Samuel P. Bolles
1841
13
Charles 0. Belden
1854
1
George A. Hickox
1855
3
George H. Baldwin
1858
in office,
SELECTMEN.
Chosen. Ceosen,
1737 Allen, Daniel 1 1843
1735 Baldwin. David 2 1853
1782 Baldwin, Isaac 2 1832
1758 Barns, Abel 2 1803
1846 Beach, Heman 1 1773
1777 Beacli, Miles 1 1777
1748 Beacli, Samuel 1 1846
1778 Beebe, Bezaleel 3 1833
1825 Beebe. William 4 1726
1847 Beckwith, Josiah G. 6 1811
1841 Benton, David 2 1802
1826 Bird, John 2 1746
1727 Bird, Joseph 9 1756
1770 Bird, Seth 4 1744
1811 Birge, James 10 1821
1745 Birge, Joseph 1 1748
1817 Birge, Joseph 1? 1838
1751 Bissell, Isaac 2 1763
Bissell, William 2
Blakeslee, Fred'k M. 3
Bolles, Samuel P. 1
Bradley, Aaron 9
Bradley, Abraham 13
Buel, Archelus 1
Buel, Frederick 1
Buel, George M. 2
Buel, John 12
Buel, Jonathan 5
Buel, Norman 6
Buel, Peter 4
Buel, Solomon 3
Catlin, John 5
Catlin, Levi 5
Catlin, Thomas 2
Coe, William 2
Collins, Timothy 2
SELECTMEN OF LITCHFIELD.
219
1815 Clark, Peck 1 1798
1758 Culver, Nathaniel 1 1785
1731 Culver, Samuel 5 1792
1841 Curtis, J:ii 3 1817
1791 Deming, Julius 1 . 1854
1827 Deming, Stephen 1 1768
1836 Dewey, George 2 1810
1757 Faniham,John 2 1857
1851 Frisbie, Henry 3 1821
1834 Frisbie, Levi 2 1740
1844 Garnsey, Edward 3 1799
1833 Garnsey, John 3 1721
1790 Garnsey, Noah? 4 1755
1737 Garrett, Joshua 11 1785
1736 Gay, John 2 1747
1754 Gibbs, Benjamin 2 1737
1841 Gilbert, Truman 6 1761
1738 Gillett, Joseph 3 1762
1747 Goodwin, Abraham 3 1750
1795 Goodwin, Nathaniel 9 1779
1846 Goslee, Henry R. 1 1819
1757 Grant, Josiah 1 1858
1825 Griswold, Benjamin 2 1847
1725 Griswold, Jacob 9 1857
1822 Griswold, Julius 4 1817
1889 Griswold, Henry S. 2 184G
1827 Guild, Gad 1 1786
1810 Hall, Ephraim S., 7 1831
1784 Harrison, Elihu 2 J 846
1828 Harrison, Roswell 2 1770
1746 Harrison, Thomas 3 1838
1830 Harrison, William 4 1845
1854 Heat on, Levi 1 1843
1830 Hopkins, Asa 1 1833
1845 Jones, Charles 1 1836
1847 Kenney, Murray 1 1738
1746 Kilbourn, Abraham 7 1754
1792 Kilbourn, David 3 1769
1746 Kilbourn, James 3 1815
1782 Kilbourn, Jesse 2 1780
1722 Kilbourn, Joseph 1 1748
1740 Kilbourn, Joseph, Jr. 3 1817
1840 Kilbourn, Norman 1 1801
1832 Kilbourn, Putnam 3 1835
1799 Kirby, Ephraim 4 1825
1836 Landon, Abner 10 1797
1753 Landon, Daniel 4 1754
Landon, John 1
Landon, Seth 2
Lewis, Ozias 5
Lewis, Ozias, Jr. 9
Lewis, A. S. 1
Lord, Lynde 2
Lord, Phineas 6
Marsh, Andrew W. 1
Marsh. David 1
IMarsh, Ebenezer 13
Marsh, James, 2d 7
Marsh, John 5
Marsh, John 10
Marsh, Roger 2
Marsh, William 5
Mason, Joseph 3
Mason, Joseph, Jr. 1
Marvin, Reynold 2
McNiel, Archibald 8
IMcNiel, Archibald, Jr. 3
•Merwin, Samuel A. 2
Minor, Garry H. 1
Morse, Jacob 1
Morse, Jacob, Jr. 2
Moss, Philo 5
Moss, Stephen 1
Murray, Philemon 1
Newton, Isaac 5
Newton, William 3
Osborn, John 4
Oviatt, John A. 3
Parkhurst, Prentice 1
Peck, Sidney 2
Pickett, Rufus 2
Pierpont, Edward 2
Phelps, Edward 7
Plumb, Ezra 5
Prindle, Mark 2
Russell, Stephen 7
Sanford, Jonah 2
Sanford, Joseph 3
Sanford, Simeon 7
Sanford, Stephen, 2d 1
Sedgwick, Albert 1
Seymour, Charles 1
Seymour, Samuel 6
Sheldon, Elisha 3
220
HISTORY OF LITCPIFIKLD.
1805 Sherman, Peter 7 175-4
1784 Skinner, Timothy 1 1838
1803 Smith, Aaron 8 1832
1855 Smith, Abraham C. 4 1737
1857 Smith, Anson C. 2 1738
1852 Smith, George A. 2 1846
1776 Smith, Reuben 1 1822
1778 Stoddard, Bryant 2 1769
1857 Stoddard, Daniel B. 2 1799
1820 Stoddard, Enos 4 1833
1783 Stoddard, James 1 1828
1780 Stoddard John 1 1818
1743 Stoddard, Moses 2 1840
1784 Stone, Heber 8 1787
l851 Stone, Willis 2 1761
1820 Woodru : Morris 2 1760
1770 Strong, Jedediah 13 1843
1744 Strong, Supply 4 1849
1836
Taylor, ES^'-^'^rer 3
Tuttle, Isaac 1
Tuttle, William 3
Walker, Josiah 1
Webster, Benjamin 5
Webster, Lyman 1
Webster, Reuben 2
Welch, David 9
Welch, John 4
Wells, Tomlinson 5
Wessells, Ashbel 3
Westover, David 2
Whiting, Jason 1
Whittlesey, Roger N. 7
Wolcott, Oliver 7
Woodruff, Jacob 5
AVoodrufF, Reuben M. 2
Woodward, Sherman P. 3
Wright, Samuel 2
FIllST CO^^STABLES AND COLLECTOIIS.
Jacob Woodruff
Chosen.
1756
Xo. vears.
^4
Asa Hopkins
iS'athaniel Goodwin
1760
1765
5
5
Uriah Catlin
1770
Jonathan Mason
1771
John Marsh, 3d,
1772
David Stoddard
1774
William Stanton
1775
David Stoddard
1776
Timothy Skinner
1777
Asahel Strong
1778
Timothy Skinner
1782
Heber Stone
1783
Roger Newton Whittlesey
Nathaniel Smith, 2d
1784
1785
David Stoddard
1786
Samuel Seymour
John Phelps
Ozias Lewis
1787
1788
1789
Samuel Seymour
James Stone
1791
1793
2
1
Nathaniel Smitli, 2d
1794
2
James Stone
1796
3
Ozias Seymour
1799
2
Dan Harrison
1801
1
CONSTABLES.
221
Ozias Lewis, Jr.
Joseph Adams
Reuben Webster
Dan Harrison
James Stone
Jacob Kilbourn
Samuel Wright
Charles Buel
Eliada Peck
Charles Buel
Jacob Kilbourn
Albert Sedgwick
Seth Catlin
Alanson Hall
Augustus Morey ■
Benjamin Kilbourn
William Lord
Leverett W. Wessells
William F, Baldwin
Leverett W. Wessells
William F. Baldwin
[This joint office was abolished in 1852
since held the office of Collector.]
1802 1
1803 2
1805 1
1806 2
1808 3
1811 3
1814 2
1816 6
1822 1
1823 5
1828 4
1832 2
1834 2
1836 1
1837 1
1838 3
1841 2
1843 1
1844 2
1846 1
1847 5
, A. S. Lewis, Esq., has
Chosen.
1788 Adams, Andrew, Jr.
1803 Adams, Joseph 6
1754 Baldwin, Abner 9
1844 Baldwin, William F.
1805 Barnard, Brainard 1
1838 Beach, Heman 1
1855 Birge, Chester G. 1
1798 Birge, Joseph 4
1802 Bishop, Amos 3
1820 Benton, David 2
1839 Birge, Albert H. 2
1840 Bissell, Henry B. 1
1 738 Bissell, Isaac, Jr. 5
1837 Blakeslee, Asa 1
1816 Buel, Charles 14
1838 Buel, Charles S. 5
1767 Bradley, Abraham 3
1856 Bradley, George 3
1852 Burgess, William L.
CO^'STABLES.
chosen.
1347
1853
1776
1784
1749
1827
1770
1828
1836
1854
1846
1802
1844
^ 1795
1852
1726
1790
1846
1847
Brooker, Samuel, Jr 2
Candee, John B. 2
Catlin, Alexander 1
Catlin, David 3
Catlin, John 5
Catlin, Seth 10
Catlin, Uriah 2
Carter, Lyman 7
Chadwick, Abiather 2
Cheney, Edward P. 1
Churchill, Daniel C. 1
Clark, Daniel 1
Clark, Job 1
Collins James 1
Crossman, William H.
Culver, Samuel 1
Emons, Phineas 7
Ensign, William M. 1
Ford, Royal A. 1
222
HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
1846 Frisbie, P"'rederick 1
1849
1806 Frisbie, Levi 3
1829
1839 Garnsey, Elijah M, 2
1771
1853 Garnsey, George 2
1826
1819 Garnsey, John 2
1841
1784 Garnsey, N. 5
1725
1805 Garnsey, Samuel 2
1769
1733 Garrett, Joshua 6
1736
1789 Garrett, Joshua 3
1849
1738 Gay, John 5
1841
1728 Gibbs, Benjamin 1
1836
1852 Gilbert, William H. 1
1850
1721 Goodrich, William 1
1777
1742 Goodwin, Abraham 2
1857
1769 Goodwin, Nathaniel 14
1S17
1792 Goodwin, Nathaniel 3
1835
1777 Goodwin, Solomon 2
1724
1832 Goslee, Chester C. 4
1805
1855 Goslee, Thomas C. 2
1841
1755 Grant, Jehiel 2
1820
1782 Grant, Jesse 1
1844
1722 Griswold, Jacob 1
1852
1853 Griswold, Lucius 1
1853
1830 Hall, Alanson 8
1841
1835 Hall, Salmon C. 1
1849
1795 Harrison, Dan 14
1842
1847 Harrison, RoUin H. 3
1842
1838 Harrison, Simeon G. 1
1782
1746 Hopkins, Asa 14
1846
1807 Hopkins, Asa 1
1805
1757 Hosford, Benjamin 1
1854
1755 Hosford, David 1
1817
1812 Humaston, Sherman
1794
1839 Judd, Jesse L. 2
1830
1838 Kilbourn, Benjamin 3
1853
1808 Kilbourn, Jacob 23
1799
1857 Kilbourn, Homer 2
1785
1857 Lake, Peter 1
1777
1770 Landon, Daniel, jr. 4
1787
1744 Landon, James 5
'1809
1836 Landon, Sherman 3
1724
1790 Lewis, Ozias 2
1781
1841 Lord, William 2
1845
1737 Marsh, George 1
1775
1795 Marsh, James 5
1773
1773 Marsh, Ebenezer 2
1774
1818 Marsh, Jared 1
1838
1772 Marsh, John 5?
1850
Marsh, John 2
Marsh, Kirby 7
Marsh, Solomon 1
Marsh, Tracy 1
McNiel, Charles 2
Mason, Joseph 1
Mason, Jonathan 6
Mather, Timothy 1
Merwin, Frederick S. 3
Merwin, Samuel A. 5
Morey, Augustus 3
Moi'se, Jacob Jr. 4
Morse, Levi 5
Munger, George 2
Northrop, Abner 7
Norton, William 1
Orton, Samuel 1
Page, David, Jr. 1
Parkhurst, Prentice 1
Peck, Eliada 10 '
Peck, Edward. O. 6
Peck, George 1
Peck, Joseph C. 5
Pickett, Rufus 1
Pierpont, Andrew J. 3
Pierpont, George 3
Pierpont, George B. 3
Phelps, John 12
Pratt, Henry M. 1
Ray, David 6
Richards, Henry B. 1
Russell, Emanuel 3
Sanford, Stephen 2d, 9
Sedgwick, Albert 4
Sedgwick, Buel 1
Seymour, Ozias 9
Seymour, Samuel 5
Skinner, Timothy 4
Smith, Eli 2
Smith, George 2
Smith, Nathaniel 1
Smith, Nathaniel 2d, 12
Smith, Rufus 3
Stanton, William 1
Stoddard, Briant 5
Stoddard, David 8
Stoddard, Daniel B. 2
Stoddard, Homer 2
LISTERS.
223
1 787 Stoddard, James 5
1782 Stone, Heber 4
1793 Stone, James 10
1779 Stone, Reuben 2
1847 Stone, Lewis 1
1778 Strong, Asahel 5
1857 Taylor, Isaac 2
1837 Taylor, Phineas 1
1780 Tracy, Uriah 1
1880 Turner, David P. 1
1723 Walker, Josiah 1
1731 Webster, Benjamin 2
1838 Webster, Lyman 1
1805 Webster, Reuben 1
1842 Wadhams, Charles D. 8
1796 Wright,
1788 Welch, John 5
1779 Whittlesey, Roger N, 8
1839 Whittlesey, AVilliam II. 2
1842 Wessells, Leverett W. 2
1846 Wetmore, John, Jr. 1
1820 Wilraot, Eli 1
1844 Woodruff; Edward 4
1816 Woodruff, Enoch J. 5
1750 Woodruff, Jacob 7
1813 Woodruff, James 3
1830 Woodruff, Nathaniel 1
1825 Woodward, Henry B.
1808 Woodward, Reuben S,
1851 Wright, Everett H. 1
1811 Wright, Samuel 13
Jonathan, 2d, 2
LISTERS, OR RATE-MAKERS.
]From 1721 to 1819. At the latter date, Assessors were substituted— the duties
of the two offices being much the same.]
Chosen.
1771 Adams, Andrew 2
1811 Adams, Elijah 1
1802 Adams, Joseph 12
1789 Allen, John 2
1722 Allen, Nehemiah 1
1794 Ames, Cheney 1
1791 Baldwin, Horace 1
1742 Baldwin, Isaac 31
1780 Baldwin, Isaac, Jr, 5
1810 Baldwin, Isaac, 2d 1
1736 Baldwin, John 1
1776 Baldwin, Phineas 6]
1784 Baldwin, William 3
1735 Baldwin, Nathaniel 1
1768 Barnard, Samuel 2
1750 Barns, Abel 3
1783 Barns, Amos 4
1775 Barns, Moses 1
1782 Barns, Timothy 1
1779 Beach, Miles 1
Chosen.
1775 Beach, Laban 1
1764 Beach, Zophar 2
1818 Beebe, William 1
1778 Benton, Ebenezer 2
1808 Benton, Ebenezer, Jr, 1
1807 Bolles, Ebenezer
1818 Birge, Albert 1
1758 Birge, Benjamin 1
1793 Birge, James 4
1723 Bird, John 6
1775 Bird, Seth 2
1762 Bidwell, Stephen 1
1803 Bishop, Amos 2
1805 Bishop, Calvin 1
1782 Bishop, Luman 2
1771 Bishop, Sylvanus 3
1736 Bissell, Isaac, Jr. 9 *
1810 Bissell, John 1
1796 Bradley, Aaron 2
1776 Bradley, Abraham 9
224
HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
1804 Bra.llcv, Comfort 2
1817 Bradley, Lemuel 2
1781 Bradley, Pliineas 1
1786 Bradley, Zina 2
1774 Buel, Archelus 1
1801 Buel, Charles 8
1799 Buel, Jonaihan 4
1789 Buel, Norman 7
1775 Buel, Peter 2
1806 Buel, Samuel 7
1763 Buel, Solomon 2
1777 Burgess, James, Jr. 1
1787 Camp, Abel, Jr. 2
1782 Catlin, Alexander 1
1789 Catlin, Bradley 2
1783 Catlin, David 1
1801 Catlin, Horace 1
1752 Catlin, John 3
1763 Catlin, Thomas 4
1794 Catlin, Thomas, Jr. 3
1791 Chase, Lot 8
1817 Chase, Philo 3
1766 Clark, Elisha 1
1812 Clark, Peck 1
1812 Coe, Levi 1
1806 Clemons, Abel 1
1760 Clemons, John, Jr. 3
1761 Collins, John I
17 60 Collins, Timothy 1
1757 Collins, Oliver 1
1796 Collins, William 2
1774 Comstock, Calvin 11
1755 Culver, Nathaniel 3
1723 Culver, Samuel 1
1787 Deming, Julius 2
1814 Deming, Frederick 1
1806 Dennison, Chauncey 1
1817 Dewey, George 1
1779 Dickinson, Michael 1
1786 Dickinson, Oliver 1
1799 Dutton, Thomas 1
1791 Emons, Arthur, jr. 1
1770 Emons, Arthur 4
1797 Emons, Phineas I
1803 Ensign, Isaac 3
1773. Ensign, Samuel 1
1730 Fairbanks, Jonathan 2
1767 Farnhara, Gad 2
1774 Farnham, Nathan, 1
1778 Farnham, Seth, 1
1791 Foot, Timothy, Jr. 3
1804 Frisbie, Jonathan 1
].sil Frisbie, Levi 1
1813 Garnsey, John 2
1781 Garnsey, Noah 2
1707 Garnsey, Nathan 4
1727 Garrett, Joshua 8
1781 Garrett, Joshua, Jr. 2
1818 Garrett, Daniel 1
1817 Galpin, Sylvester 1
1728 Gay, John 2
1759 Gibbs, Benjamin 1
1781 Gibbs, Caleb 1
1779 Gibbs, Lemuel 1
1794 Gibbs, Reuben 1
1819 Gilbert, Abner 1
1799 Gilbert, Calvin 4
1816 Gilbert, James 1
1807 Glazier, John 1
1736 Gillett, Joseph 1
1727 Goodwin, Abraham 2
1753 Goodwin, Nathaniel 16
1812 Goodwin, Oliver 5
1777 Goodwin, Solomon 3
1818 Goodwin, Thomas 1
1803 Goslee, Solomon 3
1801 Gould, James 1
1800 Grannis, Gurdon 2
1812 Grannis, Thomas 1
1796 Grant, Ambrose 1
1785 Grant, Charles 4
1746 Grant, Jehiel 6
1736 Grant, Josiah 1
1761 Grant, Josiah jr. 1
1782 Grant, Jesse 3
1737 Grant, Thomas 8
1814 Green, Samuel 1
1813 Griswold, Benjamin 1
1780 Guitteau, Judson 2
1802'^-Gunn, Samuel 1
1811 Hall, David 2
1799 Hall, Ephraim S. 3
1806 Hand, S. P. 1
1795 Harrison, Dan 3
1790 Harrison, Elihu 1
1761 Harrison, Ephraim 3
LISTERS.
£25
1757 Hai'rison, Gideon 2
1767 Harrison, Lemuel 4
1811 Harrison, Roswell 2
1744 Harrison, Thomas 2
1801 Harrison. Simeon 3
1742 Hibbard, Reuben 2
1796 Holmes, Uriel 2
1826 Hopkins, Asa 1
1781 Hopkins, Harris 2
1807 Hopkins, William 1
1724 Hosford, Benjamin 2
1752 Hosford, David 3
1778 Hosford, John 1
180;5 Humaston, Asaph 1
1780 Humaston, John Jr. 1
1784 Humaston, Noah 2
1810 Humaston, Sherman 2
1818 Humpherville, Lemuel 1
1754 Kilbourn, Abraham 4
1767 Kilbourn, David 8
1802 Kilbourn, Jacob 1
1811 Kilbourn, Jeremiah 1
1781 Kilbourn, Jesse 3
1725 Kilbourn, Joseph 1
1724 Kilbourn, Joseph Jr. 1
1800 Kilbourn, Levi 2
1792 Kilbourn, Orange 4
1743 Landon, Daniel 3
1793 Landon, Daniel 2d, 1
1774 Landon, Seth 7
1811 Landon, Seth Jr. 2
1803 Landon, Zophar 3
1722 Lee, Thomas 3
1808 Lewis, Luke 1
1780 Lewis, Ozias 1
1816 Lewis, Ozias Jr. 1
1770 Linsley, Edward 6
1783 Lord, Daniel 1
1776 Lord, Lynde 1
1811 Marsh, Aaron 1
"^728 Marsh, Ebenezer 1
1736 Marsh, George 2
1791 Marsh, James 3
1771 Marsh, John 1
1802 Marsh, Isaac 2
1793 Marsh, Nathaniel 1
1771 Marsh, Rc.ger 2
1789 Marsh, Roger Jr. 1
1788 Marsh, Samuel 3
1763 Marsh, Solomon 2
1805 Marsh, Thomas 1
1745 Mason, John 1
1768 Mason, Jonathan 5
1752 Mason, Joseph 2
1758 McNeile, Alexander 4
1776 McNeile, Archibald, Jr. 2
1779 McNiele, Isaac 4
1709 McNeile, Samuel 2
1809 Merwin, Samuel A. 3
1727 Mitchell, Nathan 1
1748 Moody, Adonijah 2
1756 Morris, James 3
1784 Morris, James Jr. 1
1775 Moss, Amos 1
1790 Moss, David 1
1774 Moss, Levi 3
1814 Moss, Philo 1
1818 Northrop, A. 1
1801 Norton, Miles 10
1798 Osborn, Eliada 1
1788 Osborn, Jacob 3
1785 Osborn, Jeremiah 2
1761 Osborn, John 6
1777 Osborn, John Jr 2
1792 Parker, Joseph 2
1809 Page, David 2
1770 Palmer, Ambrose 4
1784 Parmelee, Amos 2d, 2
1769 Parmelee, Jehiel 4
1762 Parmelee, Thomas 2
1778 Pai-melee, Thomas jr, 1
1782 Parsons, Eliphaz 1
1813 Philips, Gideon 1
1780 Phelps, Edward Jr. 1
1787 Phelps, John 1
1797 Phelps, Samuel Jr. 2
1806 Pierpont, James 3
1778 Plumb, E. 2
1804 Plumb, Samuel
1757 Prindle, Mark 1
1796 Ranney, Stephen 1
1814 Ray, David 1
1781 Reeve, Tapping 1
1806 Riley, James 1
'1788 Rovve, Daniel 1
1810 Russell, Stephen 3
1810 Sanford, Ebenezer 1
1773 Sanford, Jonah 1
1759 Sanford, Oliver 5
1810 Sanford, Simeon 2
29
22G
HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
1779 Sanford, Solomon 1 1816
17 G5 Sanford, Stephen 1 1764
1795 Sanford, Stephen 2d 4 1773
1818 Seymour, Cliarles 1 1726
1774 Seymour, Moses 6 1790
1800 Seymour, Moses Jr. 2 1775
1803 Seymour, Ozias 2 1799
1781 Sheldon, Samuel 1 1782
1782 Shether, Samuel 1 1809
1798 Sldnner, Roger 2 1804
1778 Skmner, Timothy 3 1808
1779 Smedley, Ephraim Jr. 1 1802
1783 Smedley, Gideon 1 1813
1796 Smedley, Nathan 3 1785
1797 Smith, Aaron 3 1792
1767 Smith, Charles 3 1790
1788 Smith, Charles 2 1746
1780 Smith, Eli 2 1814
1805 Smith, Hicks 1 1766
1769 Smith, John 1 1766
1762 Smith, Nathaniel 1 1766
1790 Smith, Nathaniel 2d, 6 1788
1817 Smith, Simeon 2 1808
1807 Smith, Solomon 1 1776
1752 Smith, Stephen 2 1785
1781 Stanley, Frederick 1 1805
1806 Spencer, Samuel W. 2 1810
1768 Stewart, Nathan 2 1746
1795 Stewart, William 1 1813
1809 Stoddard, Briant Jr. 5 1807
1778 Stoddard, Daniel 4 1728
1817 Stoddard, Enos 1 1804
1774 Stoddard, John 1 1813
1785 Stoddard, James 6 1792
1779 Stone, Heber 3 1779
1810 Stone, Noah 2d, 1 1817
1775 Stone, Eeuben 3 1758
1799 Stone, Thomas 1 1807
Stone, Solomon 1
Stone, Stephen 3
Strong, Jedediah 6
Strong, Supply 8
Tallmadge, Benjamin 1
Taylor, Zebulon 1
Tomlinson, Noah 1
Tracy, Uriah 6
Trowbridge, Thomas 1
Trumbull, Ezekiel 1
Turner, Isaac 5
Turner, Thomas 1
Wadsworth, Henry 2
Wallace, Richard 2
Waugh, James 2
Waugh, Samuel 4
Webster, Benjamin 7
Webster, Claudius 1
Webster, Timothy 1
Webster, Justus 2
Welch, David 2
Welch, John 3
Wessells, George B. 1
Wetmore, Joseph 1
Whittlesey, Roger N.
Wilmot, John 2
Woodruff, Enoch T, 3
Woodruif, Jacob 4
Woodruff, James 2
Woodruff; Morris 2
Woodruff", Nathaniel 1
Woodruff; YVilliam 1
Wooster, Henry 1
Wolcott, Frederick 4
"Wright, Jonathan 3
Wright, Samuel 1
Vaill, Joseph 3
Vaill, Benjamin 2
*j/s:* The offices.of Assessor and Board of Relief were created by the Constitu-
tion of 1818 — at which date the office of Lister terminated. The lists of Select-
men, Constables and Grand Jurors are designed to embrace all who have been
chosen, from the organization of the town in 1721 to the present time— with the
year of the first election of each, and the number of times each was elected.
ASSESSORS.
ASSESSORS.
1857 Ames, William B. 1
1851
1830 Beebe, William 1
1852
1836 Benton, David 2
1841
1838 Benton, D. L. 2
1835
1819 Biro-c, James 9
1840
1823 Birge, Joseph 1
1844
1836 Birge, Harvey 2
1854
1845 Booth, Charles 1
1829
1833 Biiel, Frederick 5
1835
1823 Buel, Salmon 4
1857
1840 Buel, Samuel 1
1849
1846 Buel, William R. 1
1847
1846 Bunnell, Kpliraim K. 3
1819
1841 Burgess, Junius 4
1841
1827 Catlm, Levi 2
1843
1836 Clemons, Abel H 2
1846
1851 Coe, Walter 1
1841
1858 Cooke, George 1
1841
1832 Cooke, Bogcrl
1827
1830 Curtis, Eli 7
1855
1857 Curtis, George 2
1823
1845 Emons, Ethiel 1
1857
1836 Ensign, Samuel M. 1
1835
1853 Ford, Royal A. 1
1829
1852 French, Asahel 1
1819
1849w Frisbie^ Henry 1
1834
1830 Frisbie, Levi 3
1852
1838 Frisbie, Sherman 3
1847
1858 Fuller, Cyrus S. 1
1855
1855 Garusey, George 2
1833
1840 Garnsey, John 1
1853
1838 Garusey, Noah 2
1843
1849 Gibbs, Frederick 2
1847
1827 Gilbert, Aaron C.
1853
1831 Goslee, Chester C. 1
1843
1838 Goslee, Henry R. 3
1834
1851 Griswold, Henry S. 2
1828
1849 Griswold, Lyman 2 ^
1844
1849 Hall, Alansou 2
1851
1819 Hall, Ephraim S. 9
1836
1846 Hall, Norman 1
1840
1839 Hopkins, Edward 1
1848
227
Hopkins, Wm. L. 1
Hull, Eben 1
Jones, Charles 5
Keeler, Daniel 1
Kenney, Leonard 1
Landon, Sherman 2
Moulthrop, E. P. 1
Marsh, David 5
Merwin, Samuel M 1
Morey, Augustus 2
Morse, Jacob, Jr 1
Moss, Lewis H.
Moss, Philo 7
Newton, Ransom 2
NcAvton, William 2
Oviatt, John A. 1
Page, Ithamar 3
Peck, Sidney 2
Pickett, Rufus 1
Pierpont, Andrew J. 2
Pierpont, James M. 2j
Potter, Garry G. 2
Ray, William 1
Russell, Stephen 1
Seymour, Samuel 9
Skilton, Henry 1
Smedley, Frederick 1
Smith, Anson C. 4
Smith, George A, 2
Smith, Simeon 1
Steele, Henry 1
Stoddard, Daniel B. 1
Stone, Truman 1
Taylor, Uri 1
Tompkins, Lucius 3
Tuttle, William 2
Webster, Reuben 1
Wheeler, Christopher i
Wheeler, Charles D. 3
Wells, Tomliusou 4
Whittlesey, Frederick 1
Woodward, S. P. 1
:28
HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
BOARD OF RELIEF.
1841
Abernethj, Elislia S. 1
1841
1844
Ames, Rufus 2
1835
1829
Bacon, Asa 1
1851
1839
Baldwin, Neheraiah 2
1846
1838
Barber, Elizur 1
1831
1838
Barnard, Benton 2
1846
1838
Bassett, William 1
1841
1840
Beach, Tlieron 1
1837
1845
Beckwith,.]osiah G. 1
1842
1829
Beebe, William 2
1857
1847
Benton, David 2
1847
1353
Birge, Chester G. 1
1S49
1837
Birge, Joseph Jr. 1
1819
1840
Bissell, Kathaniel 1
1840
1851
Bissell, William 2
1837
1834
BoUes, Samuel P. 2
1838
1836
BostwickjJoel 1
1849
1838
Braman, Samuel G. 2
1853
1844
Erooker, Samuel Jr. 1
1845
1839
Buel, George S. 1
1850
1819
Buel, Jonathan 9
1842
1858
Clarke, Alvah 1
1849
1816
Coe, William 2
1845
1828
Cooke, lloger 1
1847
1836
Curtis, Eli 1
1846
1841
Curtis, Garner B. 5
1828
1842
Dewey, George 1
1837
1854
Ford, Roval A.
1841
1828
Garnsej, John 1
1828
1823
Garrett, Daniel 6
1835
1847
Gibbs, Frederick 2
1845
1853
Gilbert, George 1
1849
1832
Goodwin, Oliver 2
1858
1853
Griswold, Darius P. 1
1819
1846
Griswold, Henry S. 1
1855
1849
Griswold, Lucius 2
1837
1853
Griswold, Lyman S. 1
1854
1841
Guild, Albin 3
1810
1836
Guild, Gad 1
1836
1855
Guild, P. Gould 4
1819
1847
Guild, Jeremiah 2
1844
Hall, Alanson 4
Hall, David 1
Hall, Noiman 1
Hand, Hiram J. 4
Harrison, Elihu 1
Hopkins, Edward 1
Hopkins, Wm. L. 1
Jones, Cahrles 1
Kilbourn, Putnam 3
Kilbourn, Williain P. i
Landon. Abner 2
Lord, William 1
Marsh, David 1 1
Marsh, Aaron 1
Merwin, Samuel M. 1
Moss, Stephen 2
Moss, Linus G. 3
Loveland, James L. 1
Newton, William 1
Odell, William 1
Pickett, Alanson J. 1
Pickett, Rufus 2
Page, Ithamar 1
Pierpont, Edward 4
Potter, Miner 1
Russell, Stephen 2
Stoddard, Enos 1
Stoddard, Harmon 1 ,
Sanford, Simeon 4
Skilton, Henry 1
Stone, Truman 1
Stone, WiUis 2
Taylor, Phineas 1
Welch, John 9
Wells, Tomlinson 3
Westover, David 3
Whiting, Jason 1
Whittlesey, Jabez 1
Wilmot, Eli 1
Woodruii; Morris 12
Wright, Samuel 1
GRAND JURORS.
229
GRAND JURORS.
1810 Adams, Elijah 2 1770
1802 Adams, Joseph 6 1833
1777 Allen, Corneliusl 1776
1740 Allen, Daniel 1 1804
1727 Allen, Nehemiah 1 1756
1788 Allen, John 1 1817
1858 Alvord, Chauac^y H. 1 1839
1837 Ames, Rufiis 3 1813
1852 Ames, William B 1 1855
1779 Atwater, Abel 2 1786
1808 Baldwin, Abner 1 1728
1739 Baldwin, David Jr. 4 1725
1782 Baldwin. Isaac Jr. 2 1723
1812 Baldwin, Isaac 1 1786
1826 Baldwin, Harmon 1 1851
?733 Baldwin, Nathaniel 1 1818
1779 Baldwin, Pliineas 5 1803
1734 Baldwin, Samuel 1 1829
1780 Baldwin, Stephen 1 1792
1803 Baldwin, James 1 1811
1800 Baldwin, William 1 1826
1807 Bacon, Asa 1 1812
1779 Barnard, Samuel 1 1773
1754 Barns, Abel 1 174G
1772 Barns, Enos 1 1755
1791 Barns, Enos Jr, 1 1809
1743 Barns, Daniel 1 1770
1844 Beach, George 1 1840
1825 Beach, Enos 1 1847
1838 Beach, Isaac C. 1 1782
1778 Beach, Laban 1 1799
1773 Beach, Miles 2 1768
1789 Beard, Lewis 1 1804
1781 Beebe, Bezaleel 1 1751
1735 Beebe, James 1 1887
1807 Beebe, William 2 1788
1836 Benedict, Andrew 4 1830
1820 Benton, Amos 1 1839
1833 Benton, David 5 1838
1772 Benton, Ebenezer 1 . 1779
1808 Benton, Ebenezer jr .2 1827
1780 Benton, Nathaniel 1 1799
1793 Bidwell, Elijah 1 1853
1778 Bidwell, Stephen 1 1846
1807 Bidwell, Stephen 3 1785
1801 Bishop, Amos 4.
Bishop, Noah 2
Bishop, Samuel 4
Bishop, Seth 1
Bishop, Sylvanus 1
Bissell, Isaac 1
Bissell, John 1
Bissell, Harmon 2
Bissell, Nathaniel 2
Bissell, William 1
Birge, James 2
Birge, Joseph 4
Bird, John 1
liird, Joseph 4
Bird, Seth 1
Blake, Edward W 1
Blakeslee, Isaiah 1
BoUes, Ebenezer 5
BoUes, Eben W. 5 j
Bradley, Aaron 1
Bradley, Comfort 1
Bradley, Elihu 1
Bradley, Joseph 1
Bradley, Beaming 2
Bradley, Phineas 2
Bradley. Zina 1
Brace, James 2
Buel^ Archelus 1
Buel, Andrew 1
Buel, Charles S. 1
Buel, David 1
Buel, Norman 5
Buel, Peter 1
Buel, Salmon 2
Buel, Solomon 2
Bulkley, David C. 2
Bull, Asa 2
Burgess, Ezra 2.
Burgess, Junius 2
Bunnell, Ephraim K. 1
Camp, Abel jr. 3
Camp, Ralph G. 2
Catlin, Abel 2d, 2
Catlin, Henry 1
Catlin, John 1
Catlin, Theodore 1
230
HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
1769 Catlin, Uriali 1 1832
1731 Catlin, John 4 1780
1737 Catlin, Thomas 2 1844
1805 Carter, Samuel 1 1751
1761 Chamberlain, Moses 1 1778
1793 Chase, Lot 1 1805
1813 Clark, Peck 1 1799
1846 Clock, Samuel 1 1796
1831 Coe, Walter 1 1835
1771 Collins, Charles 1 1771
1783 Collins, John 1 1854
1721 Colkins,John 1 1802
1776 Comstock, Calvin 2 1855
1789 Crampton, Elon 1 1808
1757 Culver, Benjamin 2 1858
1753 Culver, Nathaniel 1 1731
18^5 Curtis^ Eli 2 1811
1852 Curtis, Garner B. 1 1806
1856 Curtis, Levi 1 1801
1800 Dare, George 1 1800
1782 Demin^, Julius 1 1804
1831 Dewey^ George 1808
1775 Dickinson, Reuben 1 1816
1807 Dodge, Stephen 1 1752
1794 Doolitfle, Benjamin 1 1747
1757 Easton, Eliphalet 1 1838
1775 Emons, Arthur 1 1802
1786 Emons, Phineas 2 1724
1781 Emons, Russell 1 1820
1846 Ensign, Charles A. 1 1810
1811 Ensign, Isaac 2 1811
1780 Ensign, Samuel 1 1847
1807 Ensign, Samuel jr. 2 1809
1778 Farnham, Gad 1 1829
1849 Farnham, John 2 1851
1855 Farnham, Leman H. 1 1842
1768 Farnham, Seth 2 1824
1804 Foote, Timothy 1 1765
1858 Fuller, Cyrus S. 1 1760
1783 Galpin, Amos 3 1839
1841 Garnsey, Edward 3 1801
1854 Garnsey, John 1 1775
1771 Garnsey, Noah 1 1770
1830 Garnsey, Noah 3 1760
1822 Garrett, Daniel 1 1743
1748 Garrett, Joshua 2 1801
1788 Garrett, Joshua 2 1799
1726 Gay, John 1 1822
1758 Gibbs, Benjamin 3 1795
1780 Gibbs, Benjamin jr. 1 1820
Gibbs, Birdsey 1
Gibbs, Caleb 2
Gibbs, Frederick 1
Gibbs, Henry 2
Gibbs, Lemuel 1
Gibbs, Medad 1
Gibbs, Moor 1
Gibbs, Noah 1
Gibbs, Willis 3
Gibb^, Zebulon 1
Gibbud, Harris B. 1
Gilbert, Calvin 1
Gilbert, George 1
Gilbert, James 3
Gilbert, William II. 1
Goodwin, Abraham 1
Goodwin, Erastus 1
Goodwin, Medad 1
Gould, James 1
Grannis, G. 2
Grannis, Robert 1
Grannis, Thomas 1
Grant, Chai'les 1
Grant, Ebenezer 1
Griswold, Elijah 2
Griswold, Henry S. 1
Green, Samuel 1
Griswold, Jacob 1
Griswold, Benjamin 8
Griswold, John 1
Griswold, Julius 2
Griswold, Lucius 1
Grove, Thomas F. 1
Guild, Gad 2
Guild, Jeremiah 4
Hall, Alanson 2
Hall, David 4
Hall, Benjamin 1
Hall, Gilbert 1
Hall, Norman 2
Harrison, Elias 1
Harrison, Elihu 1
Harrison, Ephraimfl
Harrison, Gideon 1
Hibbard, Reuben 1
Hinsdale, Elias 1
Holmes, Uriel 1
Hopkins, Asa 2
Hopkins. Joseph li 3
Hopliins, Orange 1
GRAND JURORS.
231
1813 Ilorton, Elisha 2
1730 Hosford, Benjamin 1
1759 Hosford, David 2
1810 Koyt, Levi 1
1823 Hubbard, Jacob 2
1S47 Hull, Eben 2
1849 Humaston, A. P. 2
1849 Humaston, Noah 1
1819 Humphreville, Albro M. 1
1847 Humphreville, L. 1
1811 Huntington, Daniel 1
1842 Johnson, Horace 3
1833 Jones, Charles 1
1780 Judd, Jesse 1
1761 Kilbourn, Abraham 1
1781 Kilbourn, David 3
1753 Kilbourn, Elisha 1
1789 Kilbourn, Jacob 4
1801 Kilbourn, James 1
1 799 Kilbourn, Jeremiah 1
1773 Kilbourn, Jesse 2
1730 Kilbourn, Joseph 2
1742 Kilbourn, James 1
1798 Kilbourn, Levi 2
1793 Kilbourn, Lewis 1
1827 Kilbourn, Norman 4
1830 Kilbourn, Putnam 3
1825 Keeler, Daniel 1
1780 King, David 1
1779 Kirby, Ephraim 2
1809 Lamson, Daniel 7
1844 Landon, Abner 1
1746 Landon, Daniel 4
1776 Landon, Daniel jr. 1
1765 Landon, David 1
1737 Landon, James 1
1785 Landon, Nathan 3
1778 Landon, Seth 3
1803 Landon, Seth jr, 2
1831 Landon, Sherman 1
1804 Law, Benedict A. 1
1846 Law, Willis 1
1727 Lee, Thomas 1
1798 Lewis, Daniel W. 1
1803 Lewis, Luke 2
1773 Lewis, Ozias 4
1815 Lewis, Ozias jr. 4
1755 Linsley, Abel 1
1775 Linsley, Edwar4 1
1757 Linsley, Joseph 3
1854 Lord, William 1
1817 Loveland, Clark 1
1856 Loveland, James L. 1
1844 Loveland, Lewis 1
1840 Loveland, Nathaniel G.
1813 Mansfield, John 1
1804 Marsh, Elisha 1
1770 Marsh, Ebenezer 1
1798 Marsh, James 4
1747 Marsh, John 3
1771 Marsh, John 1
1801 Marsh, Jonathnn 1
1802 Marsh, Isaac 1
1805 Marsh, Ozias 1
1790 Marsh, Roger jr. 1
1848 Mar3h, Linus 5
1849 Marsh, Solomon 2d. 2
1804 Marsh, Thomas 1
1735 Marsh, William 4-
1751 McNeile, Alexander 4
1842 Mase, Solomon 1
1796 Mason, Elisha 2
1745 Mason, Joseph 1
1756 Mason, Joseph jr. 1
1844 Meafoy, Lemuel O. 1
1837 Merriman, Reuben 1
1844 Merwin, Samuel A. 1
1823 Merwin, Samuel M. 3
1834 Morey, Augustus 1
1886 Morris, Arvil 1
1774 Moss, Amos 2
1836 Moss, Jacob 1
1840 Moss, James ILl
1786 Moss, John 1
1783 Moss, Levi 1
1856 Newbury, Joseph A. 3
1810 Norton, Ambrose 1
1802 Norton, Miles 5
1815 Moulthrop, William 1
1725 Norton, Samuel 2
1757 Orton, Samuel jr. 1
1738 Osborn, Benjamin 1
1750 Osborn, Benjamin jr. 1
1801 Osborn, Eliada 1
1790 Osborn, Jacob 2
1757 Osborn, John 3
1784 Page, Jonathan 1
1840 Palmer, Christopher C.
1793 Parker, Joseph 2
1785 Parmelee, Amos 1
232
SELECTMEN OF LITCHFIELD.
1775 Parmelee, Jeliiel 1 1845
1732 Parmelee, Jonathan 1 1791
1774 Peck, Abijan 1 1817
1772 Peck, Benjamin 3 1821
1788 Peck, Elijah 1 1808
1852 Perkins, Charles L. 3 1750
174G Phelps, Edward 1 1798
1760 Phelps,, Edward jr. 1 1758
1808 Pickett, Ebenezer 2 1856
1820 Pickett, Pvufus 4 1786
1725 Pier, Thomas 1 1791
17C0 Pierce, John 5 1816
1848 Pierpont, Andrew J. 2 1803
1795 Pierpont, James 3 1833
1829 Pierpont, James M. 1 1806
1744 Plumb, Ezra 2 1826
1851 Pond, Seth 1 J 853
1787 JPotter, Israel 1 1798
1855 Pratt, Francis H. 4 1732
1755 Prindle, Mark 2 1783
1797 Ray, William 1 1823
1776 Riggs, Jeremiah 5 1806
1723 Root, Samuel 1 1817
1744 Rossiter, Jonathan 2 1829
1804 Sanford, Daniel 1 1770
1821 Sanford, David C. 2 1776
1738 Sanford, Joseph 1 1816
1774 Sanford, Jonah 1 1761
1775 Sanford, Moses 1 1795
1827 Sanford, Nathan 2 1836
1773 Sanford, Oliver 1 1771
1793 Sanford, Stephen 2d, 1 1749
1823 Seymour, Charles 1 1727
1826 Seymour, Origen S. 2 1736
1790 Seymour, Samuel 4 1761
1805 Seymour, Ziba 2 1836
1857 Sharp, Homer 2 1755
1797 Skinner, Roger 2 1781
1775 Skinner, Timothy 2 1833
1756 Smedley, Ephraim 4 1803
1782 Smedley, Gideon 1 1806
1806 Smedley, Nathan 1 1797
1796 Smith, Aaron 1 18C3
1762 Smith, Abiel 1 1815
1849 Smith, Anson C. 2 1837
1771 Smith, Charles 1 1780
1784 Smith, Charles jr, 1 1771
1781 Smith, Eli 3 1804
1796 Smith, Jacob jr. 2 1752
1755 Smhh, Josiah 1 1835
Smith, Nathan D,
Smith, Nathaniel 2d, 1
Smith, Reuben 1
Smith, Simeon 1
Smith, Solomon 1
Smith, Stephen 4
Spencer, Samuel W. 1
Stanley, Timothy jr. 1
Stephens, Seymour 1
Stewart, Nathan 2
Stoddard, Briant 2
Stoddard, Briant jr. 1
Stoddard, Daniel 1
Stoddard, Daniel B. 1
Stoddard, Gideon 1
Stoddard, Harmou 1
Stoddard, Homer 3 j
Stoddard, James 1
Stoddard, Moses 2
Stoddard, Moses 2
Stone, Alvah 4
Stone, James 2
Stone, John 1
Stone, Leman 1
Stone, Noah 1
Stone, Reuben 1
Stone, Solomon 1
Stone, Stephen 2
Stone, Thomas 3
Stone, Willis 1
Strong, Asahel 1
Strong, Josiah 2
Strong, Supply 2
Sutliff,John 1
Taylor,- Ebenezer 1
Taylor, Phineas 1
Taylor, Zebulon 1
Thomas, Joseph 1
Trowbridge, Stephen 3
Trowbridge, Thomas 3
Todd, Ebenezer 1
Todd, Eli 1
Tuttle, Nathan 1
Turner, Jacob 1
Turner, Lucius S. 1
Turner, Titus 1
Tryon, John 1
Vaill, Benjamin 1
Vaill, Joseph 2
Warner, A. AV. 1
PROSECUTING ATTORNIES.
233
1821 Warren, Horace 1
1756 Warner, Reuben 2
1800 Ward, William 1
1791 Washburn, William 3
1807 Waugh, James 1
1754 Waugh, Robert 2
1801 Waugh, Samuel 3
1787 Wads worth, Elijah 1
1728 Walker, Josiah 1
1734 Webster, Benjamin 2
1777 Webster, Benjamin 1
1807 Webster, Claudius 1
1839 Webster, Lyman 1
1 81x4 Webster, Reuben 1
1763 Wlch, David2
1819 Welch, Garry P. 1
1837 Wetmore, Elihu 2
1782 Wetmore, Joseph 1
1835 Whittlesey, Frederick 1
1839 Whittlesey, Jabez 1
1777 Whittlesey, Roger N. 5
1857 Wheeler, Charles D. 1
1847 Williams, Robert 2
1808 Wilraot, Eli 1
1 787 Woodcock, Samuel 3
1851 Woodruff, Edward 4
1816 W^oodruff, Enoch J. 3
1828 Woodruff, George C. 3
1794 Woodruff, James, 1
1753 Woodruff, Benjamin 1
1763 Woodruff, Charles 2
1812 Webster, Truman 2
1758 Woodruff, Nathaniell
1808 Wooster, Lemuel 1
1791 Wright, Jonathan 2d 3
1767 Wessells, Lawrence 4
FOR THE COUNTY OF LITCHFIELD
[king's ATTORNIES.]
Samuel Pettibone, Goshen.
J. Whitney, Canaan.
Reynold Marvin, Litchfield.
Andrew Adams, Litchfield.
[state's ATTORNIES.]
Andrew Adams, Litchfield.
Tapping Reeve, Litchfield.
John Canfield, Sharon.
John. Allen, Litchfield.
Uriah Tracy, Litchfield.
Daniel W. Lewis, Litchfield.
Uriel Holmes, Jr., Litchfield.
Elisha Sterling, Salisbury.
Seth P. Beers, Litchfield.
Samuel Church, Salisbury (and Litchfield.)
Leman Church, Canaan.
David C. Sanford, N. Milford (and Litchfield.)
John H. Hubbard, Salisbury (and Litchfield.)
Julius B. Harrison, New Milford.
Gideon Hall, Winchester.
Charles F. Sedgwick, Sharon, (now in office.)
30
234
HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
(!Iov|)oration0 iit £itfl)flcl^.
PHCENIX ERANCH BANK.
[Incorporated in 1814.]
PRESIDENTS.
Benjamin Tallmadge 1814
James Gould 1826
Asa Bacon 1833
Theron Beach 1846
George C. Woodruff 1852
CASHIERS.
James Butler 1814
Austin Kilbourn 1821
Henry A. Perkins 1826
Charles Spencer 1828
Theron Beach 1838
Gustavus F. Davis 1839
Henry R. Coit 1851
12
7
14
6
7
5
2
10
1
12
DIRECTORS.
[From 1814 to 1859-
Benjamin Tallmadge
Frederick Wolcott
Aaron Smith
James Gould
Henry Wadsworth
Elisha Sterling
Solomon Rockwell'
Morris Woodruff
Samuel Buel
Seth P. Beers
Joseph Battell
Ithamer Canfield
William Buel
Jabez W. Huntington
David Foot
Erastus Hodges
Charles L. Webb
David S. Boardman
Erastus Lyman
Daniel Bacon
Ozias Seymour
Asa Bacon
David C. Sanford
Origen S. Seymour
-in the order of their election. |
Samuel P. Bolles
Seth Thomas
Theron Beach
Elihu Harrison
John C. Coffing
Charles Doming
George C. Woodruff
William C. Sterling
E. Champion Bacon
Benjamin Deforest
Oliver Goodwin
Gustavus F. Davis
Lemuel Hurlbut
John Deforest
David C. Whittlesey
Jason Whiting
Gideon H. Hollister
William H. Thompson
Samuel Church
Henry W. Buel
Edward W. Seymour
David L. Parmelee
Abraham C. Smith
OFFICERS OF BANKS IN LITCHFIELD.
235
LITCHFIELD SAYINGS BANK.
[Iiicorprated in 1850.]
PRESIDENTS.
George C. Woodruff 1850 3
Josiah G. Beck with 1853 3
Edwin B. Webster 1856 —
VICE PRESIDENTS.
Samuel P. Bolles 1850 1
Josiah G. Beckwith 1851 2
Samuel P. Bolles 1858 3
Stephen Trowbridge 1856 2
Jason Whiting 1858 —
SECRETARIES AND TREASURERS.
Gustavus F. Davis 1850
Samuel P. Bolles 1851
Henry R. Coit 1852
DIRECTORS.
[From 1850 to 1859 — in the order of their election.]
Seth P. Beers
Charles L. Webb
Josiah G. Beckwith
Charles Adams
Edwin B. Webster
Theron Beach
Gideon H. Hollister
Henry W. Buel.
Oliver Goodwin
William F. Baldwin
Jason Whiting
Frederick D. McNiel
Jesse L. Judd
Abraham C. Smith
Chauncey M. Hooker
LITCHFIELD BANK,
[Incorporated in 1856 — organized in 1857.]
PRESIDENTS.
William H. Grossman 1857
Josiah G, Beckwith 1858
CASHIERS.
Edward L. Houghton 1857
Frederick E. Harrison 1858
RECEIVERS, S^^^^^?.^^^'^''''
F. E. Harrison.
236 msTORT OP litchpjeld.
LITCHFIELD MUTUAL FIRE INSURANCE COMPANY.
[Incorporated in 1833.1
2
6
10
PRESIDENTS.
Pliineas
Miner
1833
William Biiel
1835
William
Beebe
1841
Josiah G
r. Beckwith
1851
SECRETARIES.
Leonard Goodwin 1833
Sylvester Galpin
Jason Whitino-
1834
1841
TREASURERS.
Oliver Goodwin 1833
George C. Woodruff 1855
DIRECTORS.
[From 1833 to 1859 — in the order of their election ]
22
Phineas Miner
Oliver Goodwin
Charles L. Webb
Leonard Goodwin
Samuel P. Bolles
Origen S. Seymour
Albert Sedgwick
George C. Woodruff
Tomlinson Wells
Sylvester Galpin
Jonathan Carrington
Apollus Warner
Wra. M. Burrall
David C. Sanford
Frederick Wolcott
William Buel
Elihu Harrison
Joseph Adams
Ebenezer W. Bolles
John M. Holley
Richard Smith
Jason Whiting
Lewis Smith
Lucius Bradley
Israel Coe
Stephen Trowbridge
William Beebe
Samuel G. Braman
Josiah G. Beckwith
George D. Wadhams
William H. Thompson
Leman W. Cutler
David C. Whittlesey
Stephen Deming
Robbins Battell
A. S. Lewis
Sheldon Osborne
Seth P. Beers
Abijah Catlin
Charles Adams
Philip S. Beebe
OFFICERS OF THE LITCHFIELD FEMALE ACADEMY. 237
LITCHFIELD FEMALE ACADEMY.
[Incorporated ill 1827.]
PRESIDENTS.
Frederick Wolcott 1827 10
William Buel 1837 9
Seth P. Beers 1846 8
Samuel P. Bolles 1854 declined.
Josiah G. Beckwith 1854 —
SECRETARIES.
Truman Smith 1827 1
John P. Brace 1828 4
Leonard Goodwin 1832 3
Elihu Harrison 1835 2
Origen S. Seymour 1837 4
Sylvester Galpin 1841 3
Samuel P. Bolles 1844 10
Henry R. Coit 1854 1
Cliauncey M. Hooker 1855 —
TREASURERS.
William Buel 1827 19
Josiah G. Beckwith 1846 8
Henry W. Buel 1854 —
TRUSTEES.
Frederick Wolcott Samuel P. Bolles
James Gould ' Sylvester Galpin
William Buel Jason Whitmg
Phhieas Miner J- G. Beckwith
Seth P. Beers Albert Sedgwick
Jabez W. Huntington Charles Adams
Truman Smith Gideon H. Hollister
John P. Brace Henry W. Buel
John R. Landon William Demmg
Daniel Sheldon Henry R. Coit
Leonard Goodwin ^ David E. Bostwick
Oliver Goodwin Frederick D. McNiel
Elihu Harrison Cliauncey M. Hooker
Origen S. Seymour Stephen Deming
Samuel Buel George C. Woodruff
238 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
LITCHFIELD COUNTY
HISTOrilCAL AND ANTMUARIAN SOCIETY,
[Incorporated in 1856.]
PRESIDENT.
Seth P. Beers, Litchfield, 1856 —
VICE PRESIDENTS.
George C. Woodruff, Litchfield, 1856 —
John Boyd, Winchester, 1856 —
Charles F. Sedgwick, Sharon, 1856 —
Abijah Catlin, Harwinton, 1856 —
Charles B. Phelps, Woodbury, 1856 dead.
William Cothren, Woodbury, 1858 —
SECRETARY.
Payne Kenyon Kilbourn, Litchfield, 1856 —
TREASURER.
Charles Adams, Litchfield, 1856 —
AUDITOR,
Edwin B. Webster, Litchfield, 1856 —
DIRECTORS.
David L. Parmelee George C. Woodruff
Herman L. Vaill James Richards
D. E. Bostwick P. K. Kilbourn
J. G. Beckwith.
LITCHFIELD COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.
[Incorporated in 1818.
OFFICERS FOR THE YEAR 1858-'9
PRESIDENT,
JOHN M. WADHAMS, Goshen.
VICE PRESIDENTS,
Royal A. Ford, Litchfield.
George C. Hitchcock, Washington.
Nathan Hart, Jr., Cornwall.
corresponding secretary,
J. G. Beckwith, Litchfield.
recording secretary,
William F. Baldwin, Litchfield.
treasurer,
E. W. Seymour, Litchfield.
OFFICERS, ETC.
LITCHFIELD VIGILANT SOCIETY.
239
[Organized in
1828.]
PRESIDENTS.
Chosen.
No. years.
Stephen Russell
1828
4
Enos Stoddard
1832
2
Truman Kilbourn
1834
2
Norman Kilbourn
1836
2
Putnam Kilbourn
1838
3
Luman Bishop
1841
3
Murray Kenney
1844
4
Daniel B. Stoddard
1848
i
Prentice Parkhurst
1849
1
Willis Stone
1850
1
George Kenney
1851
2
William P. Kilbourn
1853
3
Daniel B. Stoddard
1856
1
Sherman C. Keeler
1857
—
SECRETARIES.
Enos Stoddard
1828
4
William Coe
1832
5
Willis Stone
1837
2
Leonard Kenney
1839
1
Lucius Wilmot
1840
2
Daniel B. Stoddard
1842
2
Lucius Wilmot
1844
5
Henry M. Pratt
1849
2
Edward Woodruff
1851
3
Homer Stoddard
1854
3
H. L. Kenney
1857
—
TREASURERS.
William Coe
1828
5
Putnam Kilbourn
1833
1
Leonard Kenney
1834
c>
Daniel B. Stoddard
1837
2
Luman Bishop
1839
2
Harmon Stoddard-.
1841
1
Garry G. Potter
1842
9
Prentice Parkhurst
1844
5
Daniel B. Stoddard
1849
5
David Kenney
1854
18.57
3
240 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
ilnstitutloiia, Societies, ctr.
THE ELM PARK COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE.
|t ^ffarbiitg ^cl]00l far §ap.
CORNER OF NORTH AND PROSPECT STREETS, LITCHFIELD,
Rev. JAMES RICHARDS, D. D., Superintendent.
English and Philosophical Teacher, & Lecturer on History and Physical Geogi-aphy.
JAMES RICHARDS, Jr., A. B.,
Professor of Ancient Languages and Mathematics.
D. M. COE,
Assistant Teacher of Mathematics.
W. POWELLE,
Instructor in French.
R. VON SCHMIEDEBERG,
(of Cornwall,)
Instructor in German.
BOARD OF VISITOIlS-1859.
G. C. Woodruff, Cyrus Catlin,
Wm. Deming, p. K. Kilbourn,
Henry W. Buel, Charles Adams.
THE WOLCOTT INSTITUTE.
gi §aarMng Sriiool for gop.
SOUTH STREET, LITCHFIELD
Rev. D. G. WRIGHT, M. A., Rector.*
OFFICERS FOR THE YEAR 1859.
Seth p. Beers, President.
Josiah G. Beckwith, Secretary.
Wm. p. Baldwin, Treasurer.
E. B. Webster,
H. N. Hudson,
Wm. p. Baldwin, )> Directors.
J. G. Beckwith, I
E. W. Seymour, j
* While this work was in press, Mr. Wright resigned. The vacancy is not filled.
SCHOOLS, SOCIETIES, ETC. 241
THE GOULD SEMINARY.
^ §mx¥m^ \\\\ii Jim ^cl]00l for §m^ f aMts,
North-street, Litchfield.
Miss HARRIETTE STYLES, Principal.
Miss WOODWARD, Assistant Principal.
SPUING HILL,
LITCHFIELD, CONN.
This Institution is now open for tlie reception of patients afflicted with Nervous
Diseases.
The design is to give the household as much the character of the family circle as
possible, and to combine with this the most thorough medical treatment and super-
vision.
The retired and healthful nature of the situation renders it well adapted to the pur-
pose, and the House has been fitted up in the most complete manner for this special
object.
Terms according to the accommodations I'equired in each case.
For further particulars, enquiries mav be made of
H. W. BUEL, M. D.
Connecticut Mining Company.
[Office in Seymour's Building, South-street, Litchfield.]
Officers for 1858-'9.— (Capital $200,000.)
GEORGE G. WEST, President.
JOHN W. BUELL, Secretary.
H. H. K. ELLIOTT, Assistant Secretary.
I, M. ASHTON, Treasurer.
DIRECTORS.
I. W. Mickel, C. R. Moore,
L. Wheeler, John W. Buell,
W. H. Grossman, H. Daley,
J, S. Fisher, A. B. Curtiss,
G. G. West.
LITCHFIELD COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY.
President— H. M. KNIGHT, M. J)., Salisbury.
Secretary— D. E. BOSTW-ICK, M. D., Litchfield.
( D. B. W. Camp, M. D., 1858.
Fellows, JQeorge Seymour, M. D., 1859.
31
242
HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Roll of Representatives from Litchfield.
[Fii-st represented in the Legislatiire in 1740.]
1740.
May.
October.
1741.
May.
October.
1742.
May.
October.
1743.
May.
October.
1744.
May.
• October.
1745.
May.
2d.
May.
October.
1746.
Maj'.
October.
1747.
May.
October.
1748.
May.
October.
1749.
May.
October.
1750.
May.
October.
1751.
May.
October.
1752.
May.
October.
1753.
May.
October.
1754.
May.
October.
1755.
May.
Octobei".
1756.
May.
October.
1757.
May.
October.
1758.
May.
October,
1759.
May.
October.
1760.
May.
Octobei'.
1761.
May.
October.
1762.
May.
October.
1763.
May.
October.
1764.
May.
October.
1765.
May.
October.
1766.
May.
October.
1767.
May.
October.
1768.
May.
October.
1769.
May.
October.
1770.
May.
Joseph Bird,
Jolm Bird,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Edward Phelps,
Edward Phelps,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Edward Phelps,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Thomas Harison,
Thomas Harrison.
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer JIarsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Joseph Kilbonrn,
Joseph Kilbourn,
Thomas Harrison,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Peter Buel,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Jacob Woodruff,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer ^larsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
P^benezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Mai'sh,
Ebenezer I\Iarsh,
Oliver Wolcott,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Oliver Wolcott,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
David Welch,
Ebenezer Marsh.
John Buel.
John Buel.
Samuel Culver.
Jacob Griswold.
Jacob Griswold.
John Bird.
Joseph Bird.
Joseph Bird.
Joseph Bird.
Joseph Bird.
Isaac Baldwin.
Joseph Bird.
Joseph Bird.
Joseph Bird.
Joseph Sanford.
Joseph Sanford.
John Bird.
John Bird.
Joseph Bird.
Thomas Harrison.
Thomas Harrison.
'Thomas Harrison.
Thomas Harrison.
Thomas Harrison.
Thomas Harrison.
Benjamin Webster.
Benjamin Webster.
Benjamin Weljster.
Benjamin Webster.
Thomas Harrison.
Benjamin Webstei'.
Elisha Shelden.
Peter Buel.
Peter Buel.
Peter Buel.
Elisha Shelden.
Elisha Shelden.
Elisha Shelden.
Elisha Shelden.
Elisha Shelden.
Elisha Shelden.
Elisha Shelden.
Elisha Shelden.
Isaac Baldwin.
Isaac Baldwin.
Isaac Baldwin.
Isaac Baldwin.
Isaac Baldwin.
Isaac Baldwin.
Oliver Wolcott.
Isaac Baldwin.
Isaac Baldwin.
Isaac Baldwin.
Jolm Marsh.
John Marsh.
John Marsh.
John Marsh.
Jacob Wooch-uff.
Abraham Kilbourn.
Abraham Kilbonrn.
Abraham Kilbourn.
REPRESENTATIVES.
243
October.
1771.
May.
October.
1772.
May.
October.
1773.
ISIay.
October.
1774.
May.
October.
1775.
]\Iay.
October.
1776.
May.
October.
1777.
May.
October.
1778.
May.
October.
1779.
May.
October.
1780.
May.
October.
1781.
May.
October.
1782.
May.
October.
1783.
May.
October.
1784.
May.
October.
1785.
May.
October.
1786.
May.
October.
1787.
May.
October.
1788.
May.
October.
1789.
May.
October.
1790.
May.
October.
1791.
May.
October.
1792.
May.
October.
1793.
Jlay.
October.
1794.
May.
October.
1795.
May.
October.
1796.
]\Iay.
October.
1797.
May.
October.
1798.
May.
October.
1799.
May.
October.
1800.
JIay.
October.
1801.
May.
October.
1802.
May.
October.
1803.
May.
October.
1804.
I\Iay.
Octobei-.
Oliver Wolcott,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Jcdediah Strong,
Jedediah Strong,
Jedediah Strong,
Jcdediah Strong,
Jcdediali Sti-ong,
Jedediah Strong,.
Jedediah Strong,
Jedediah Strong,
Jedcdiuli Strong, ■
Jedcdiali Strong,
Jedediah Strong,
Jedediah Strong,
Jedediah Strong,
Jedediah Strong,
Jedediah Strong,
Jedediah Strong,
Jedediah Strong,
Jedediah Strong,
David Welch
Jedediah Strong,
Jedediah Strong,
Jedediah Strong,
Jedediah Strong,
Jedediah Strong,
Abraham Bradley,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Jedediah Strong,
Ebenezer Mai-sh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer ]\Iarsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Ebenezer Marsh,
Jedediah Strong,
Tapping Reeve,
Ebenezer Mai-sh,
Julius Deming,
Julius Deming,
Ephraim Kirby,
Epliraim Kirby,
Solomon i\Iarsh,
John Allen,
Bezaleel Beebe,
Ephraim Kirby,
Ephi-aim Kirby,
Ephraim Kirby,
Moses Seymour,
Moses Seymour,
]Moses Seymour,
Moses Seymour,
Moses Sejnnour,
James Morris,
Moses Seymour,
Moses Seymour,
Ephraim "Kirby,
Ephraim Kirby,
Ephraim Kirby,
Moses Seymour,
Moses Seymour,
James Morris,
Closes Sejanour,
James Morris,
James Morris,
James Morris,
James Morris,
Abraham Kilbourn.
John ^larsh.
Lynde Lord.
Lynde Lord.
John Marsh.
David Welch.
David Welch.
John Marsh.
David Welch.
David Welch.
Abraham Bradley.
Abraham Bradley.
Andrew Adams.
Andrew Adams.
Andrew Adams.
Andrew Adams.
Andrew Adams.
Andrew Adams.
Andrew Adams.
Andrew Adams.
Andrew Adams.
Andrew Adams
Bezaleel Beebe.
Bezaleel Beebe.
Isaac Baldwin.
Bezaleel Beebe.
Isaac Baldwin, Jr.
Isaac Baldwin.
Isaac Baldwin, Jr.
Abraham Bradley,
Jedediah Strong.
Jedediah Strong.
Jedediah Strong.
Ebenezer Benton.
Jedediah Strong.
Jedediah Strong.
Uriah Tracy.
Uriah Tracy.
Uriah Tracy.
Uriah Tracy.
Uriah Tracy.
Uriah Tracy.
Uriah Tracy.
Uriah Tracy.
Bezaleel Beebe.
Uriah Tracy. .
John Allen.
John Allen.
John Allen.
John Allen.
Bezaleel Beebe.
Jolm Allen.
John Allen.
Ephraim Kirby.
Ephraim Kirby.
Julius Deming.
Ephraim Kirby.
Eplu-aim Kirby.
John Welch.
Jolm Welch.
James Morris.
Ephraim Kirby.
John Welch.
Frederick Wolcott.
Ephraim Kirby.
Frederick Wolcott.
Uriel Holmes.
Uriel Holmes.
Uriel Holmes.
244
HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
1805.
May.
Octobei'.
1806.
May.
October.
1807.
May.
October.
1808.
May.
October.
1809.
May.
October.
1810.
May.
October.
1811.
JIay.
October.
1812.
May.
October.
1813.
]\Iay.
October.
1814.
May.
October.
1815.
May.
October.
1816.
May.
October.
1817.
May.
October.
1818.
May.
October.
1819. "
May.
1820.
May.
1821.
May.
1822.
May.
1823,
May.
1824.
May.
1825.
May.
1826.
May.
1827.
May.
1828.
May.
1829.
May.
1830.
May.
1831.
May.
1832.
May.
1833,
May.
1834.
May.
1835.
May.
1836.
May.
1837.
May.
1838.
May.
1839.
May.
1840.
May.
1841.
May.
1842.
May.
1843.
May.
1844.
May.
1845.
May.
1846.
May.
1847.
May.
1848.
May.
1849.
May.
1850.
May.
1851.
May.
1852.
May.
1853.
May.
1854.
May.
1855.
May.
1856.
May.
1857.
May.
1858.
May.
1859.
May.
James Morris,
James Morris,
Moses Se%niiom',
Uriel Holmes,
Uriel Holmes,
Uriel Holmes,
Aaron Bradley,
Nathaniel Goodwin,
Natlianiel Goodwin,
Nathaniel Goodwin,
Moses Seymour,
Moses Seymour,
Aaron Smith,
Moses Seymour,
Aaron Smith,
Morris Woodruff,
Aaron Smith,
Aaron Smith,
Aaron Smith,
T'riel Holmes,
William Beebe,
William Beebe,
William Beebe,
William Beebe,
Jonathan Buel,
Jonathan Buel,
Stephen Russell,
Stephen Russell,
John Welch,
John Welch,
Seth P. Beers,
Seth P. Beers,
Seth P. Beers,
David Marsh,
David Marsh,
Morris Woodruft',
Phineas ]\Iiner,
Jabez W. Huntington,
Phineas Miner,
Stephen Russell,
Stephen Russell,
Truman Smith,
William Beebe,
Stciihen Russell,
Phineas Jliner,
Morris ^^'oodruff',
Morris Woodruff,
Samuel Buel,
Samuel Buel,
Frederick Buel,
Frederick Buel,
Origen S. Seymour,
Origen S. Seymour,
Elisha S. Abernethy,
Charles Adams,
David Marsh,
David Marsh,
Samuel P. Bolles,
Origen S. Seymour,
Origen S. Seymour,
George C. Woodruff,
Josiali G. Beckwith,
Josiah G. Beckwith,
Frederick Buel,
Philip S. Beebe,
Josiah G. Beckwith,
Josiah G. Beckwith,
Henry B. Graves,
Edward W. Seymour,
Uriel Holmes.
Uriel Holmes.
Norman Buel.
Aaron Bradley.
Aaron Bradley.
Aaron Bradley.
Aaron Smith.
Aaron Smith.
Aaron Smith.
Aaron Smith.
Aaron Bradle3^
Aaron Bradley.
Moses Seymour
Aaron Smith.
Moses Seymoiu".
Aaron Smith.
Morris Woodiniff.
Morris Woodiniff.
Morris Woodruff.
Morris Woodruff.
Morris Woodruff.
Jonathan Buel.
Jonathan Buel.
Jonathan Buel.
Ephraim S. Hall.
Ephraim S. Hall.
Ephraim S. Hall.
Phineas Lord.
Phineas Lord.
Seth P. Beers.
John Welch.
John Welch.
Phineas Miner.
Morris Woodruff.
Morris Woodruff.
Reuben Webster.
William Beebe.
William Beebe.
Morris Woodruff.
Morris W^oodruff.
Truman Smith.
Elihu Harrison.
Asa Hopkins.
Truman Smith.
Elihu Harrison.
Phineas Lord.
Phineas Lord.
William Ray.
William Ray.
E. Cliampion Bacon.
E. Champion Bacou.
Enos Stoddard.
Enos Stoddard.
Dan Catlin.
Dan Catlin.
George Seymour.
George Seymour.
William L." Smedley.
Christopher Wheeler.
Christopher Wheeler.
Thomas M. Coc.
William Newton.
William Newton.
Samuel P. Bolles.
Samuel Brooker, Jr.
Garry H. Minor.
Edward Pierpont.
William Bissell.
William Bissell.
LITCHFIELD GRADUATES. 245
NATIVE AND RESIDENT GRADUATES,
INCLUDING THOSE WHO HAVE RECIVED HONORAliY DEGREES.
Note. — This list is not designed to embrace the names of such as have received
medical degrees only— though '^some of the number have received the u. d. in addi-
tion to other degree's. In the first column, the * indicates that the person whose
name is given on the same line, was born in this town. The figures in the same col-
umn denote the number of years the individual lived in Litchfield. The figures in
the second column, indicate the year of graduation. The t after the name, nidicates
an honorary degree. The name of the college is given immediately after that of the
graduate.
Edward P. Abbe, Yale, clergyman in Slassachusetts.
Frederick R. Abbe, Yale, '" " "
Elisha S. Abernethy, Yale, lawyer — now resides in Bridgeport.
Andrew Adams, ll. d., Yale, Chief Justice of Connecticut.
John Allen,t Yale, lawyer and member of Congress.
John W. Allen, t Yale, 'lawyer of Cleveland, Ohio; member of Congress.
Asa Bacon, Yale, an eminent lawyer— died in New Haven in 1857.
1833 E. Champion Bacon, Yale, lawyer, legislator — died at Seville, Spain, 1845.
1000 Fr;^ncis Bacon, Yale, lawyer. Senator, Major .General
Leonard W. Bacon, Yale — present pastor of the First Church, Litchfield.
Ashbel Baldwin, Yale, formerly' Rector of St. Michael's, Litchfield.
Charles A. Baldwin, Williams, lawyer in State of New Yoik— died 1818.
Isaac Baldwin, Yale, lawyer, legislator, clerk of the courts ; died in 1805.
Isaac Baldwin, Jr, Yale, lawyer and legislator ; died in Pompey, N. Y, 1830.
Isaac Baldwin. 3d, Yale, lawyer — died in 1844,
Samuel S. Baldwin, Yale, lawyer — died in 1854.
George Beckwith, Yale, pastor of the church in South Fanns.
Josia'h G. Beckwith, m. d.. Union, a practicing physician in this town.
Lyman Beecher, d. d., Yale, former pastor of the 1st Church in this town.
Charles Beecher, Bowdoin, now pastor in Georgetown, Mass,
Edward Beecher, d.'d-, Yale, late Pi-esident Lliuois College; author, etc.
George Beecher, Yale, died while pastor of a church in Chilicothie, Ohio.
Heniy Ward Beecher, Amherst, pastor of Plymouth Church, Brooklyn.
Thomas K. Beecher, Illinois,- now pastor in Elmira, N. Y.
William H. Beecher,t Yale, formerly pastor in Midnletown, etc.
Frederick D. Beeman, Yale, lawyer, and clerk of the courts.
Amos Benedict, Yale, lawyer — died in this town in 1816.
Andrew D. Benedict, Kenyon, Episcopal clei-gyman,
Samuel Benedict, Trinity, late Ass't Rector Trinity church, N. Haven.
Alfred H. Beers, m. d.. Trinity, physician in Buftafo, N. Y. •
George W. Beers, Trinity, member of the Bar, Litchfield.
John Bird, Yale, lawyer in Litchfield & Troy, N. Y. ; member of congress.
Edward Bissell, Yale, lawyer in Fondulac,' Wisconsin.
Oscar Bissell, Yale, pastor of a church in Westminster, N. H.
William Bissell, m. d., Yale, physician in Salisbury.
Noah Bishop, Yale, pastor of a church in or near Springfield, Ohio.
John P. Brace, Williams, teacher, author, editor.
Charles Loring Brace, Yale, author. Secretary Chilch-en's Aid See, N. Y.
Jonathan Brace, t d. d.. Yale, now pastor of a church in Milford.
John J. Brandagee, Yale, former Rector of St. Michael's, Litchfield.
1812 Solyman Brown, Yale, dentist, author, clergyman. New York city.
"""" Frederick Buel, Yale, Agent American Bible Society, California.
William P. Buel, m. d., Yale, phj'sician on California steamer.
Henry W. Buel, m. d., Yale, physician in his native town.
David Buel, Jr., Williams, of Troy, N. Y., lawyer. Judge, regent univ'ty.
Joshua D. Berrj-, Middlebury, late President Shelby CoUege, Ky.
Amos B. Beach^ Union, late Rector St. Paul's, Bantam Falls.
Horace Bushnell, d. d., Yale, pastor North Church, Hartford ; author, etc.
David Butler, d. d ,t Washington, former Rector St. Michael's.
Joseph E. Camp, Yale, pastor church in Northfield.
Albei-t B. Camp, Yale, pastor in Bridgewater, Ashby, Mass., etc.
Lynde Catlin, Yale, merchant, and President Merchants' Bank, N. York.
John Catlin, Yale, teacher, &c., resides in Northfieid.
Jndah Champion, Yale, '2d pastor of the first church in this town.
Amos Chase, Dartmouth, pastor church in South Farms.
Samuel Church, ll. d., Yale, chief justice of Comiecticut.
*
1848
*
1848
10
1825
30
1760
26
1791
*
1840
48
1793
*
1833
*
1838
3
1850
*
1776
*
1810
05
1735
*
1774
*
1801
-*
1801
9
1766
30
1827
16
1797
*
1833
16
1822
16
1828
*
1834
*
1843
16
1833
16
1842
—
1800
*
1846
*
1847
*
1846
*
1839
*
1786
*
1851
*
1849
*
1853
*
1833
*
1812
*
1846
6
1850
3
1843
*
1812
30
1836
15
1826
*
.1844
*
1805
12
1836
?
1832
=S
1827
10
1833
42
1787
*
1822
*
1786
*
1839
60
1751
27
1780
9
1803
24(i HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
John Churchill,! Yale, now pastor of a church in Woodbury.
Timothy Collins, Yale, first pastor of the first church in this town.
Ambrose Collins, Yale, went a missionary to the Indians, and died.
Thomas Davies, Yale, former Rector of St. Michael's.
William Doming, Yale, resides in his native town.
George C. V. Eastman, Middlebury, Rector of church in Bantam Falls.
Samuel Fuller, n. d., Union, late President Kenyon College, Ohio.
Fisher Gay, Yale, colonel revolutionary army; legislator, magistrate.
James Gould, ll. d., Yale, Judge Sup. Court, principal Law School.
George Gould, Yale, of Troy, N. Y., now Judge Supreme Court, N. York.
James R. Gould, Yale, lawj'cr, died in Augusta, Georgia, 1830.
William T. Gould, Yale, Judge Court of Oyer and Terminer, Augusta, Ga.
John M. Grant, Yale, colporteur in ]\Iaryland, &c.
Wm. -H. Guernsey, Yale, clergyman ; died in Savannah, Ga., 1850.
Liither B. Hart, Union, late pastor Baptist church. North Norfolk.
Laurens P. Hickok, d. d., Union, now Vice President Union college.
George A. Hickox, Trinity, now a practicing lawyer in this town.
Gideon H. Hollister, Yale, lawj^er, clerk of the courts, senator.
Uriel Holmes, Jr., Yale, lawyer, judge, member of congress.
Uriel Holmes, Jr., Yale, died July 3, 1818, while member Theo. Sem. And.
Lemuel Hopkins,! m. D,,Yale, poet, &c.
Dan Huntington, Yale, former pastor of the first church in this town.
Charles P. Iluntington, Harvard, now Judge Superior Court, Boston, Ms.
Jabez W. Huntington, Yale, lawyer, judge, member of congress, senator.
William P. Huntington, Harvard, pastor in Mass. and Illinois; artist, etc.
George J. Harrison,,Union, now congregational minister in Milton.
Isaac Jones, Yale, minister of St. Michael's parish.
Benjamin Judd, Yale, pastor in Milton.
James Kilbourn, Yale, pastor in Bridgewater, Middle Haddam, & Illinois.
John Kilbourn, Yale, teacher in State of New York.
P. K. Kilbourn,! Union, author of this volume.
Ephraim Kirby,t Yale, lawyer, judge, author of" Kirby's Reports."
Wm. H. Lewis",! d. d., Kenyon, Rector of Holy Trinity church, Brooklyn.
Daniel W. Lewis, Yale, lawyer, state's attorney. '■
Samuel Lymau, Yale,' removed to Springfield, "Mass. ; member of congress.
Lynde Lord. Jr., Yale, died in his native town in 1813.
Stephen Mason, Williams, former pastor in Washington, now in Michigan.
Reynold Marvin, Yale, lawyer, king's attorney; died here, Julj^ 30, 1802.
Samuel Marsh, Yale, lawyer in his native town, and in Norfolk, Va.
Truman Marsh, Yale, Rector of 8t. Michael's 27 years ; died here iu 1851.
James Morris, Yale, teacher, magistrate, legislator, captain; died 1820.
James Morris, jr., Yale, tutor University of Georgia; d. in Sunbury, Ga.
Reuben S. Morris, Yale, lawyer; died in Utica, N. Y., in 1832.
Dwight Morris, Union, lawyer in Bridgeport, judge of probate, legislator.
Benjamin Osborn, Dartmouth, pastor in Tinmouth, Vt. ; author, d. 1818.
Isaac Osborn, Dartmouth, farmer, teacher, deacon ; died in Litchfield 1826.
Jeremiah Osborn, Dartmouth, farmer, died in Litchfield in 1829.
Jacob Osborn, Dartmouth, farmer and teacher, died in Litchfield in 1821.
Ethan Osbom, Dartm'th, pastor Fairfield, N. J., 54 yrs; d. in his 100th yi".
Solomon Palmer, Yale, Rector of St. Jlichael's; d. in this town in 1771.
Benjamin Palmer, Yale, died in 1780.
John M. Peck, d. d.,! Harvai-d, Baptist pastor in Illinois; author; d. 1858.
Wm. G. Peck,! Trinity, (also at West Point,) Prof. Mat. Colum. Col., N. Y.
James Peck, Union, merchant at La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Amos Pettingill, Harvard, pastor church in South Farms — 1816 to',1822.
.lohn H. Pettingill, Yale, District Secretary Am. Board — Albany, N. Y.
John Pierpont, Yale, clergyman in Boston, author, lecturer, poet.
Charles Perkins, Yale, lawj'er, died in London, (Eng.,) Nov 18, 1856, m 64.
Tapping Reeve, ll. d., Princeton, chief justice of Connecticut.
Aaron Burr Reeve, Yale, lawyer in Troy, N. Y , died iu 1809.
Tapping Burr Reeve, died in Litchfiekrin 1829.
James Richards, d. v., Union, now Principal Elm Park Col. Institute.
James Richai-ds, jr., Princeton, Professor Ancient Lau. and ]Mat. in do.
Rollin Sanford, Yale, merchant in Brooklyn, N- Y. ; candidate for congi-ess.
Horatio Seymour, ll. d., Yale, lawyer, U. S. Senator from Vt 12 years.
Origen S. Seymour. Yale, member of congress, judge Superior Court.
Edward W. Seymour, Yale, lawyer, member present House of Represent's.
Elisua Sheldon, Yale, legislator and judge; died in Litchfield in 1779.
Elisha Sheldon, M. D., Yale, died iu 1832; buried in Litchfield.
*
1844
54
1718
*
1758
—
1758
*
1811
—
1829
9
1822
*
1759
47
1791
*
1827
*
1824
*
1816
*
1839
*
1844
*
1849
7
1820
7
1851
16
1840
32
1784
*
1816
8
1784
11
1794
*
1822
27
1806
*
1824
6
1843
40
1792
3
1791
*
1837
15
1840
*
1853
*
1787
*
1844
—
1788
6
1770
*
1783
*
1812
50
1748
*
1786
*
1786
*
1775
*
1803
*
1804
*
1838
*
1775
*
1779
*
1779
*
1784
*
1784
13
1729
V
1750
*
1853
*
1853
*
1842
6
1807
*
1837
*
1804
25
1813
50
1763
*
1802
*
1829
1833
1858
*
1831
*
1797
*
1824
*
1853
25
1730
*
1800
LITCHFIELD PHYSICIANS. 247
* Richard Skinner, ll. D.,t Middlebury, Governor and chief justice of Vt.
25 1790 Aaron Smith, Yale, lawj^er, legislator and merchant ; d. in this town in 1834.
7 180G Lucius Smith, Yale, merchant, colonel in war with Gt. Britain, clergyman.
45 1757 Reuben Smith, Yale, physician, magistrate, county treasurer; died in 1804.
35 1815 Truman Smith, Yale, lawj-er, member of congress, U. S. Senator.
* 1761 Jedcdiah Strong, Yale, member continental congress, legislator, etc.
3 1823 John S. Stone, D. D., Union, former Rector of St. Michael's.
— 1838 Benjamin W. Stone, Trinity, " " " "
* 1857 Stori-s 0. Seymour, Yale, i\o\\ a student of theology.
* 1822 WiUiam Sheldon, Yale, merchant, died in France in 1826.
10 1844 Benjamin L. Swan,t Yale, now pastor of a church in Stratford.
52 1773 Benjamin Tallmadge, Yale, member of congress 10 years.
* 1830 Benjamin Tallmadge, jr.f Yale, Lieut. U. S. N. ; d. off Gibraltar in 1830.
* 1811 Frederick A. Tallmadge, Yale, Recorder N. Y. city, member of congress.
28 1778 Uriah Tracy, Yale, lawyer, member of congress, U. S. Senator, General.
* 1778 Joseph Vaill, Dart'th, pastor in Hadlyme ; d. 1838 after a ministry of 58 yrs.
* 1824 Hermon L, Vaill, Yale, pastor in East Lyme; also Seneca Falls, N. Y.
* 1848 Louis F. Wadsworth, Trinity, lawyer in N. Y. city, Dep. Clerk Assembly.
* 1837 Charles Wadsworth, d. d.. Union, pastor Arch st. church, Philadelphia.
* 1795 Holland Weeks, Dartmouth, pastor in Waterbury, and m Vermont.
? lS(f9 William R. Weeks, d. d., Princeton; d. 1848, je. 66.
* 1778 John Welch, Yale, merchant, judge, legislator; died in 1844.
* 1805 William Welch, Yale, captain U. S. A.; died in the public service in 1811.
* 1827 William H. Welch, Yale, late chief justice of Minnesota Territory.
46 1747 Oliver Wolcott, ll. c. Governor, Signer Declaration of Lidependence.
* 1778 Oliver Wolcott, jr, ll. d., Yale, Governor, Secretary U. S. Treasury, etc.
* 1786 Frederick Wolcott, Yale, lawyer, legislator, judge of probate.
* 1779 Ezekiel Woodruff, Yale, lawyer, Adjutant revolutionary army.
* 1849 Curtis T. Woodruff', Yale, Rector Episcopal church in Woodbury.
* 1825 George C. Woodruff', Yale, lawyer, legislator, judge of probate.
* 1857 George M. Woodruff', Yale, now a law student in Cambridge, Mass.
* 1830 Lewis B. Woodruff', Yale, now a Judge Superior Court, New York city.
* 1809 Simeon Woodruff, Yale, clergyman, settled at the West.
* 1836 Lucius H. Wooch-uflf. Yale, teacher in Insane Retreat, Hartford; d. in 1852.
* 1803 Samuel Whittlesey, Yale, pastor at Washington and elsewhere.
2 1851 Junius M. Willey, Trinity, Rector of St. Michael's; now in Waterbury.
Physicians who have Practiced in Litchfield.
Note. — The * designates natives of this town. { Those who received the M. D.
Timothy Collins, from Guilford, the first clergj'man and physician in the town
preached and practiced here from 1721 till his death in 1777.
Thomas Little, from Taunton, came here about 1747— died in Northfield of old age.
Seth Bird,* b. Jan, 4, 1733-'4; died in this town in 1804.
Daniel Huntington, practitioner and draggist; d. in Woodbury Feb. 19, 1819.
Phineas Bradley, practitioner and druggist; became Ass't P. M. Gen'l U. States.
Samuel Catlin,* b. Nov. 6, 1739; lived to old age, and died in his native town.
Hosea Hulbert,| removed to Fairfield county.
Daniel Sheldon, J a native of Hartford, practiced here from 1781 until his death.
Phineas Smith.* b. Oct. 27, 1759 ; lived and died in his native town.
Comfort Bradley,* lived and died in native town.
Partridge Parsons,* b. Aug. 22, 1763 , d. in Pen Yau, N. Y., May 9, 1846, aged 83.
Robert Catlin,* surgeon, b. March 29, 1773 : d. in his native town in 1823.
Abel Cathn,* b. March 18, 1770 : died in his native town January 13 1856.
John M. West,t died in this town July 27, 1836, aged 47. '
Reuben S. Woodward, { died in Northfield in 1849, aged 83.
Isaac Marsh,* died in Cornwall, Sept. 1, 1829, aged 53.
Joseph Parker, died in South Farms, Feb. 6, 1830, aged 70.
William Buel,*| President State Medical Soc, d. in this town, Oct. 15, 1851, jf.. 84.
Samuel Buel,*{ died in this town, July 10, 1854, aged 72.
Alanson Abbe,| now resides in Boston.
Manly Peters, j now resides in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Norman Landon,*J died in this town in 1830.
John W. Russell,*f now resides in Mount Vernon. Ohio.
Josiah Barnes, t now resides in Buffalo, N. Y.
248 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Moses A. Lee, J died while Professor in the Medical College at Pittsfield, Mass.
Anson Wildman, practitioner and druggist: present residence unknown.
,Iohn S. AVolcott,t* (son of the last Gov. Wolcott,) died in this town in 1844.
Reuben M. Woodruf{',*| died in this town April 29, 1849, aged 38.
Charles Vaill,*| now resides in Rochester, N. Y".
Garry H. Minor,f a native of Woodbury, now i-esides in South Farms.
Benjamin Welch, jr., J from Norfolk, now resides in --Salisbury.
Caleb Ticknor,! died in New York, Sept. 7, 1840, aged 36.
Samuel R. Childs,^: now resides in Saratoga Springs.
William Deming, jr.,*|; now resides in Lenox, Mass.
James K. Wallace,* now a practitioner at Bantam Falls.
George Seyraour,*J now a practicing physician in this village.
A. Sidney Lewis, *|: " " "
Eliada Osborn,*t " " "
David E. Bostwick,*t " " "
■ Orson Buel,* (botanic,) " " "
D. B. W. Camp,*t " " Northfield.
Physicians born in Litclifield but who practiced elsewliere.
[Not included in either of the foregoing Lists.]
Judah Champion Landon, (son of J. R. Landon, Esq.) died in Kentucky a few years.
John Ward Birge, now of tjtica, N. Y.
Levi Moulthrop, died in early manhood at Rockford, Illinois.
Timothy Pierce, died at the South.
Clark s'anford, settled in Stamford and died there.
John Stoddard emigrated westward.
Asa Barnes, settled in Virginia.
Burr Reeve Abbe, Boston, Mass.
Charles W. Grant, now resides at lona, near Newbui'gh, N. Y.
Aaron W. Gibbs, now of Chicago, Illinois.
Samuel Catlin, jr, formerly of Watertown: now in Michigan.
Egbert Guernsey, author. Professor, and practitioner, New York city.
Ozias Lewis, jr, of Kosciusco, Mississippi.
Isaac W. Russell, died in Mount Vernon, Ohio.
Joseph W. Camp, late of Bristol — noAV of Wisconsin.
Fred'k B. Woodward, former physician in Woodbury — now Rector ch. in Bethany.
Asa C. Woodward, now of Bethany.
Elijah A. Woodward, now of Madison, Wisconsin.
Warren Smith, died in Stillwater, N. Y., Nov. 1805.
Ephraim Smedley, of North East, Pennsylvania.
Abel Brace, of Catskill, N. Y. — late coroner of Green co.
Henry Holmes, of Hartford — Health Officer, Alms House Physician, Coroner.
George Bissell, late of Dutches county, N. Y., now of California.
Charles J. Kilbourn, of Stanfordville, Dutches co., N. Y.; died in this town in 1852.
James B. Kilbourn, of Hinds county. Miss.; died therein 1837.
Washington Irving Wright, surgeon in the U. S. Army.
Oliver V\ olcott, died in California in 1856. A son of Colonel Oliver S., he was the
last of the Wolcotts in the line of the three Governors. His remains were brought
to Litchfield for interment.
Joseph Hall, died recently at North East, Penn.
Augustus Bissell, Pennsylvania.
Daniel H. Moore, died in New Haven in 1849.
Walter Peck, died in Goshen Nov. 8, 1834, aged 24.
Horatio M. Baldwin, died in Binghamton, N. Y., in 1842.
Marcus M. Wood, of Greene, Chenango county, N. Y.
Henrj^ Pierpont, of Naugatuck.
Charles H. VVeI)ij, of Woodbury.
Zephaniah Webb, of New York city.
Moses M. Seymour, of Painesville, Ohio.
LITCHFIELD. 249
Town of Litchfield.
The town of Litchfield is situated near the geographical centre of the Countv of
Litchfield, of which it is the shire town or seat of justice. It is claimed, (b_y those
who have from time to time sought to divide it,) that it is the largest township in the
State — being eight miles north and south, by nine miles east and west. It is 32 miles
west of Hartford, 36 mile north-westerly from New Haven, and about 100 miles north-
easterly fi-om New York. It is bounded north by Cornwall, Goshen and Torrington ;
south by Bethlem, Watertown and Plymouth; east by Harwinton, from which it
is separated by the Naugatuck river; and west by Warren and Washington. The
Naugatuck, Shepaug and Bantam rivers, and some of their branches, pass throuoli
the town, affording an abundance of water-power. Bantam Lake, which lies wholly
in this town, is the largest lake in the State, covering an area of 900 acres. The
Little Pond covers about 15 acres; and Cranberry Pond is still smaller. Mount Tom
Pond lies partly in Washington and partly in this town. The surface of the town is
gently rolling, here and there breaking into abrupt ridges or bluffis. The highest of
these is Mount Tom, some six miles south-west of the village, which reaches an al-
titude of 700 feet above the river at its base, or, according to President Dwio-ht
1500 feet above the level of tide-water. From Prospect Mountain, about four iniles
west of the Court House, may be seen the Cattskill mountains, west of the Hudson.
A large proportion of the land in the vallies and on the hill-sides, is easily tilled and
yields abundant crops. The balance is profitably used for meadow, pasturage and
wood-land. Some of the most beautiful and diversity landscapes in New Enoland
are to be met with in this town. In 1800, the total amount of the Grand List of Litch-
field was $107,164 27 — of which sum $51,687 67 was for the First Society; $26,882 02
for South Farms; $14,740 45 for Northfleld ; $13,855 13 for Milton. In 1810, there
were in the town 4087 acres of plow-laud ; 7298 acres of meadow and clear pasture ; 966
acres of boggy meadow that was mowed; 294 acres do. not mo\yed; other meadow
1312 acres; 9343 acres bush pasture; 4408 acres first rate wood-laud ; 3789 acres 2d
rate do. ; 4756 acres 3d rate do. Since that date, the plow-land, meadow and cleared
pasture, have greatly increased ; while the area of wood-land has decreased in a like
ratio. Wood is now so scarce and high in our borough market, that some of our
people have already commenced burning Pennsylvania mineral coal.
Litchfield contains four incorporated Ecclesiastical Societies and twenty-eight
School Districts. The societies are, Litchfield, South Farms, Northfleld, and Milton.
The Naugatuck Railroad runs through the entire length of the township from nortli
to south — the Litchfield Station being about four miles from the Court House.
The population of Litchfield in 1756, was 1,366; in 1774, it was 1,554; in 1800, it
was 4,287; in 1810, it was 4,639. From this time, the tide of emigration began to
set so strongly westward that our population commenced decreasing. In 1820, the
census-taker gave us 4,610; while in 1850, our population was but 3,987.
In hotly contested elections, more than 1,000 votes have been polled in this town.
Though the population of the Town has thus decreased, the Borough has gradually
increased its numbers, and has been constantly improving in rural beauty.
In 1848-'9 the New England Mining Company commenced mining for copper in the
"Pitch," four miles south-east of this village; and about the same time, another
company with the famous P. T. Barnum at its head, began digging in the same vicin-
ity. Both these companies were unsuccessful. Barnum, in his examination before
his creditors in New York, put down as one item of loss, " $10,000 sunk in a Litchfield
copper mine."
In other parts of the town, however, miners have met with better success. About
two miles north-east of the village, on the fomi of Mr. Beach, a shaft has been sunk
25 feet in depth, by Messrs. Sedgwick and Buell. The vein or lode is 14 feet in width,
composed of pure quartz, with a slight mixture of felspar. In this vein is found a
very pure gray Copper Ore, yielding by analysis 79 1-2 per cent, of copper. A
bevel has been driven 140 feet, which whe completed, will intersect the vein at 50
feet in depth. In this vein are also tound great quantities of small pure garnets,
which are as yet too small to be made valuable as articles of commerce. This vein,
bearing nearly a north and south direction, can be traced for a distance of three miles.
On the farm of Mr. Gilbert, half a mile from this location, was i-ecently found an old
shaft, 15 feet deep, which is supposed to have been sunk long before the Revolution.
This has been cleaned out, and sunk 30 feet upon a small vein of iron and copper run-
ning together. The quantity of copper found is not yet sufficient to render the dig-
ging profitable — the mine having been but partially developed.
The lands of the Connecticut Mining Company, on Prospect Mountain, promise an
abundant return for funds invested and labor performed. Disinterested parties who
have visited these lands, and others who have analyzed and smelted their copper
nickel and silver ores, pronounce the per centage of pure metal to be much greater than
that of some the celebrated EngUsh mines. The enterprize is this company deserves
and will receive a rich reward.
32
250 HlSTOEY OP LITCHFIELD.
Litchfield Borough Corporation.
At the May Session of the Legislature of tliis State, 1818, tlie inhabitants of this
village presented their memorial, praying for a Borongh Charter. In their petition
they state that " the houses are as contiguous as they are in many of our cities ; that
the' Public Schools, which for many years have been established in this village, make
a great addition to its ordinary population;" that on account of their local situation
and compact settlement, they are, as they conceive, in an unusual degi-ee exposed to
injuiy from fire," &c. The application was successful; and the petitioners and their
associates, residing within the limits prescribed, " were constituted and declared to
be forever thereafter, a body corporate in fact and in name, by the name of the Cor-
poration of the Village of Litchfield." The powers vested in the corporation were
similar tothose of the ordinary borough charters of this state, viz., to levy taxes for
the pux"chase of fire-engines, fire-hooks, ladders, and such other improvements as
should be deemed necessary to protect the village against fires ; to order and direct in
all matters relating to side-walks, shade-trees, and the sinking of public wells and
pumps ; to restrain cattle, sheep, and geese from running at large in the public high-
ways; and to pass such by-laws and regulations, with suitable penalties attached, as
might, from to time, be thought necessary for the attainment of the objects contem-
plated in the charter. The oflicers designated in '^the act of incorporation, were, a
President, Treasurer, and Clerk, (who were in all cases to be chosen by ballot,) a
Collector of Taxes, and a number of Fire- Wardens not to exceed ten, together with
such other officers not enumerated as should be jnecessary to carry the by-laws and
the provisions of the charter into effect. In case the collector should refuse or neglect
to collect the tax according to the tenor of the warrant committed to him, the Presi-
dent must " issue ihis warrant directed to the Sheriff of the county of Litchfield, or
his deputy, to distrain the sums or rates neglected by such collector to be collected,
to be paid out of the estate of said collector." The Assessors were to be appointed
by the County Court.
The first meeting of the inhabitants of the Borough itnder the charter, was held on
the 17th of June, 1818, at which the follo^^^ng officers were elected, viz., Hon. Fred-
erick WoLCOTT, President; Dr. William Buel, Treasurer; and Joseph Adams,
Clerk. A committee !of five was appointed to prepare a code (of By-Laws for the
Borough, viz. Seth P. Beers, Julius Doming, Asa Bacon, Phineas Miner, and Ozias
Lewis. At an adjourned meeting holden on the 20th of June, it was voted to choose
a Bailiff' by ballot; and Dr. Abef Catlin was elected to that office. Benjamin Tall-
madge, Asa Bacon and Chai-les L. Webb, were appointed a Committee of Inspection ;
and Ashbel Marsh was chosen Key Keeper.
These gentlemen constituted the first list of officers of our corporation. It is sad
to note the inroads which death has made in their ranks in the lapse of forty years.
The President, Treasurer, Clerk, and Bailiff, together with Messrs. Deraing, Miner,
Tallmadge and Bacon, are all with the dead.
At the regular annual meeting in September, 1818, Judge Wolcott was re-elected
President; Dr. Buel, Treasui-er; and Mr. Adams, Clerk; Messrs. Roger Cook, Am-
brose Norton, Moses Sej-mour, Jr., Oliver Goodwin and James Trowbridge, were
chosen Fire Wardens. At an adjourned meeting, Asa Bacon, Esq., was chosen
Bailiff; Charles L. Webb, Leonard Goodwin, Jonathan Carrington, and Ambrose
Norton, Assistant Bailifts; and. Leonard Goodwin, Collector.
The first Board of Assessors consisted of Erastus Lyman, Esq., Gen. Morris
Woodruff, and John N. Guun, Esq. The amount of theGrand List of the Borough,
Oct., 1818,) as returned by the Assessors, was $128,913.65.
In 1820, the Hon. Uriel Holmes was elected President of the Borough. In 1824, he
was succeeded by Dr. William Buel, who held the office for twelve years. His suc-
cessors have been the Hon. Phineas Miner, Joseph Adams, Esq., Dr. J. G. Beckwith,
Garwood Sanford, Heniy B. Graves, and P. K. Kilbourne, F. D. Beeman, and John H.
Hubbard.
In 1823, the second general assessment of the village was made by Samuel Sey-
mour, Frederick Wolcott, and Jonathan Carrington, Esqrs., (gentlemen appointed for
that purpose by the County Court,) and did not differ materiallv in amount from that
made in 1818. The assessment of 1835 amounted to $140,627; that of 1853, to
$143,525; sliowing a gradual increase in the actual value of the real estate of our vil-
lage, from the date of its incorporation to the present time.
The village now (1859) contains something over 200 dwellings, stores, offices, and
shops; 4 houses of Public Worship, three of which have chapels annexed; a Court
House, Jail, and County House; two Banks, one Savings Bank, one weeklv news-
paper, three Hotels, an Insurance Office, three Public Halls in addition to the Town
Hall and Court Room, three High Schools, (one for young ladies and two for
young gentlemen;) also, it is the residence of five clergymen, seveji physcians, and
ten lawyers, exclusive of those who have summer residences here.
SOROUGH OP LITCHFIELD. 251
Professor Benjamin Siluman, LL. D., of Yale College, in 1820, published in his
Journal of Science, an account of a Journey through New England. Of this vil-
lage he saj's:
' Litchfield Hill is a beautiful spot. One principal street, ( intersected, ^however,
by some cross streets,) extends more than a mile in length, and contains a collec-
tion of very handsome houses, with gardens and court-yards. The houses and
appendages are generally painted white; and it is rare to see so considerable a
number of houses in a country town, where nearly all apparently belong to the
gentry. In England, such a town would be a wonder; and here, connected as it is
with the rich agricultural country which surrounds it, swclle I into beautiful liilis and
scooped into luxuriant vallies, everywhere crowned with lively verdure and with cul-
tivated fields — it presents a very interesting and gratifying spectacle."
COUNTY OFFICERS, PROFESSIONAL MEN, MERCHANTS, &c.,
Residing in the Borough of Litchfield — 1859.
High Sheriff. — Leverett W. Wessells.
Deputy Sheriff. — Edward 0. Peck.
County Clekk. — Frederick D. Beeman.
County Treasurer. — Charles L. Webb.
Justices of the Peace. — Charles Adams, John H. Hubbard, Henry B. Graves'
George C. Woodruff, P. K. Kilbourn, Edward W. Seymour, Frederick D. Beeman.
Wm. L. Ransom,'G. A. Hickox.
Members of the Bar. — Seth P. Beers, (retired from practice,) Origon S. Sey-
mour, (Judge Superior Court,) George C. Woodruff, John H. Hubbard, Gideon H.
Hollister, Henry B. Graves, George W. Beers, William L. Ransom, E. W. Seymour,
Frederick D. Beeinan, George A. Hickox.
Physicians. — Josiali G. Beckwith, A. S. Lewis, George Seymour, David E. Bost-
wick, Henry W. Buel, Eliada Osborn. Orson Buel, Botanic.
Clergymen. — Leonard W. Bacon, pastor 1st congregational church; H. N. Hudson,
Rector St. Michael's church; James Richards, D. D., Principal Elm-Park Collegiate
Institute; Joshua D. Berry, Rector Episcopal church, Plymouth; William Howard,
pastor 1st Methodist church.
Merchants.— Charles L. Webb, J. G. Beckwith, W. F. & G. H. Baldwin, Silas
N. Bronson, Wm. Wheeler, C. Rinehart, Charles F. Bishop, Theodore S. Sedgwick,
A. C. Smith, George Munger, Frederick D. McNiel, Wm. H. Braman, L. 0 Meafoy,
Wm. I\Iunson, Henry W. Adams, Samuel Clock. Thomas H. Richards, Edward Coe. ■
Dentists. — E. W. Blake, Edward Crossman.^
Dagiierreotypist — Jesse L. Judd.
Jewellers. — Reuben Merriman, Christian Rineliart.
Furniture Ware-house. — David C. Bulkelcy.
Dealer in Stoves, ifc. — Garwood Sanford.
Meat- Markets. — Robert Merriman, Egbert T. Warner.
The professional men now residing in other parts of the town are — Rev. David L.
Parmelee, pastor congregational church in South Farms; Rev. George J. Harrison,
minister congregational church in Milton; Rev. J. R. Williams, Rector St. Paul's,
Bantam Falls, and Trinity, Milton; Rev. Jackson Ganun, pastor of the Baptist church
in Bantam Falls; Rev. Hermon L. Vaill, retired congregational minister. Dr. Garry
H. Minor, South Farms; Dr. D. B. W. Camp, Northfield; Dr. James K. Wallace,
Bantam Falls.
[Of the 14 practicing physicians in this town thirty years'ago, (1829,) two only re-
main among us, Dr. Beckwith, of this village, and Dr.' Mmor, of South Farms.]
[From the Litchfield Monitor.]
Litchfield, March 29th, 1785. — " Died on the 27th inst., in this town, Mrs. Sarah
McNeil, wife of Capt. Archibald McNeil, in the 73d year of her age. She shared
largely in the vicissitudes of fortune. In her native country she was brought up
under easy affluent circumstances. In crossing the Atlantic they were shipwrecked,
lost their only child, and an affluent fortune. By the Divine blessing upon their inde-
fatigable industry, they procured a handsome interest. To her, emphatically, be-
longed that character of a virtuous woman, Prov. xxxi. She was very steady and
devout in her attendance upon divine worship and ordinances — was exemplary pious,
and hopefuhy died in the Lord, Her works do follow her."
262 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
Temperance in Litchfield Seventy Years Ago.
[Said to have been the earliest Temperance Organization in the world.]
" So many are the avenues leading to human misery, that it is impossible to guard
them all. Such evils as are produced by our own folly and weakness are within our
power to avoid. The immoderate use which the people of this State make of Dis-
tilled Spirits, is undoubtedly an evil of this kind. It is obvious to every person of
the smallest observation, that from this pernicious practice follows a train of evils
difficult to be enumerated. The morals are corrupted, property is exhausted, and
health destroyed. And it is most sincerely to be regretted that from a mistaken idea
that distilled spirits are necessary to laboring men, to counteract the influence of
heat, and give relief from severe fatigue, that a most valuable class of citizens have
been led to contract a habit of such dangerous tendency. Hence arises the inabihty
to pay public taxes, to discharge private debts, and to support and educate families.
Seriously considering this subject, and the frowns of Divine Providence in denying
many families in this part of the country the means of a comfortable subsistance the
present year, by failure of the principal crops of the earth; we think it peculiarly the
duty of every good citizen to unite his efforts to reform a practice which leads so
many to poverty, distress, and ruin. Whereupon we do hereby associate, and mutu-
ally agree, that hereafter we will carry on our business without the use of distilled
Spirits as an article of refreshment, either for ourselves, or .those whom we employ,
and that instead thereof, we will serve our workmen with wholesome food, and com-
mon simple drinks of our own production.
Ephraim Kirby, Archibald McNeil,
Timothy Skinner, Abraham Bradley,
David Buel, I. Baldwin, Jr.,
Julius Deming, T. Reeve,
Benjamin Tallmadge, Collier & Adam,
Uriah Tracy, Tobias Cleaver,
Ebenezer Marsh, Amos Galpin,
Moses Seymour, Thomas Trowbridge,
Samuel Marsh, S. Shethar,
James Stone, Solomon Buel,
Samuel Seymour, Bryant Stoddard,
Daniel Sheldon, Abraham Peck,
Ozias^ Lewis, Frederick Wolcott,
Lawrence Wessells, Nathaniel Smith 2d,
Elijah Wadsworth, John Allen,
Alexander Catlin, ' John Welch,
Reuben Smith, Arthur Emmons.
Lynde Lord,
By Necessity and on Principle, in consequence of little experiment and much ob-
servation, I have effectually adopted and adhered to the salutary plan herein pro-
posed during several months past, and am still resolved to persevere until convinced
that any alteration will be productive of some greater good, whereof at present I have
no apprehensions whilst Human Nature remains the same.
Likhjield, 9th May, 1789. J. STRONG."
Slavery in Litchfield.
From sixty to eighty years ago, many of the wealthy people in this town owned
negro slaves. Some were voluntarily emancipated by their owners; while others
were liberated by the laws which have from time to time been passed on the subject.
In 1800, the census shows only seven slaves in this town. The 'institution' is now
extinct among us, though some who were born slaves are still livino; here.
The following document, executed by the fkst Governor OUver Wolcott, we find on
our town records :
" Know all men by these presents, that I, Oliver Wolcott, of Litchfield, in the
state of Connecticut, in expectation that my negro servant man, Ccesar, will, by his
industry, be able to obtain a comfortable subsistence for himself, and that he will
make a proper use of the freedom which I hereby give him, do discharge, liberate,
and set free, him, the said Qesar, and do hereby exempt him from any further obli-
gations of servitude to me, my heirs, and from every other person claiming any au-
thority over him, by, from, or under me. And that my said servant, whom I now
make free, as aforesaid, may be known hereafter, by a proper cognomen, I hereby
give him the name ofJamusjso that hereafter he is to be known and distinguished by
the name of Ccesar Jamus. As witness my hand and seal, in Litchfield, November
twenty-third day, A. D. 1786.
In presence of ) OLIVER WOLCOTT. [l. s.]
Maky Ann Wolcott, >
Frederick Wolcott. )
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION, ETC. 253
LITCHFIELD COUNTY CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION.
On the 13th and 14th days of August, 1851, the One Hundredth anniversary of the
organization of Litchfield County was celeb^ted with appropriate ceremonies in this
village. A Committee of Arrangements had been preriously appointed in eacli town
in the county — that for Litchfield consisting of the Hon. Samuel Church, George C.
Woodruff, Esq.. Rev. David L. Parmelee, Hon. William Beebe and Jonathan Buel,
Esq. The following gentlemen composed the Central Committee, viz., Hon. Seth P.
Beers, (Chairman,) Hon. Origen S. Sevmour, G. H. Hollister, Edwin B. Webster and
Wm. H. Thompson, Esqrs., all of Litchfield : Col. Bobbins Battell, of Norfolk, Hon.
David C. Sanford, of New Milford, and Rev. Jonathan Lee, of Salisburj-.
An immense crowd of returning emigrants from the county, and others, were pres-
ent. The great Tent belonging to Yale College was spread on the West Park, under
which the public services took place — consisting of an Historical Address, by the Hon.
Samuel Church, LL. D., of Litchfield, the then Chief Justice of the State; a Dis-
course, no ' The Age of Homespun,' by the Rev. Horace Bushnell, D. D., of Hartford,
a native of Litchfield; and a Poem, by the Rev. John Pierpont, of Medford, Mass.
also a native of this town.
The following were the Officers of the Day:
Gen. DANIEL B. BRINSMADE, of Washington, President.
Gen. R. C. Abernethy, "|
Hon. Roger H. Mills," I
John Buckingham, Esq., \ Vice Presidents.
Hon. Charles B. Phelps,
Hiram Goodwin, Esq., J
Major-General Williani T. King, of Sharon, Chief Marshall.
Coi. William F. Baldwin, of Litchfield, and 21 others. Marshals.
On the second day of the celebration, addresses were made under the Tent by th^
Hon. Messrs. Daniel S. Dickinson, Amasa J. Parker, F. A. Tallmadge, David Buel,
George W. Holley, George Gould, Henry Dutton, &c. Letters were read, songs and
hymns were sung: old acquaintances were renewed, and new one formed; and,
though friends and strangers came in thousands, the hospitality of our people proved
abundant. The 13th and 14th of Augest, 1851, are days that will long be remembered
in our local calender.
D:^=*The drawing on the opposite page, was made by Mr. Jules Busch, (a native
of Dresden, Germany,) who, in 1851-2, was a teacher of Drawing, etc., in this village.
He was subsequently a Professor of the Fine Arts in the State Normal School. On liis
return from a visit to his native country in the autumn of 1858, he perished at sea,
with 500 others, by ttie burning of the steamship Austria.
ZEBULON GIBBS' NARRATIVE.
[Zebulon Gibbs was born in Windsor Aug. 19, 1711; died in Litchfield Jan. 8, 1803. J
" Memoirs of Capt. Zebulon Gibbs. — Some memoirs of my life may not be un-
interesting. I came to Litchfield in the year 1720, then being in my tenth year. There
were then but three families living within the limits of Litchfield, viz., John Peck,
Captain Jacob Griswold, and Ezekiel Buck. Said Griswold was taken by two Indi-
ans in the month of May, 1722, and carried as far as Canaan ; and in the succeeding
night, when the Indians were asleep, said Griswold took their guns and made his es-
cape, and returned to the town next day — though he was followed by the Indians
within sight of the houses then standing on the now town plat. In the same year, in
the month of August, Joseph Harris was killed and scalped by the Indians. On the
day that said Harris was killed, I was solicited by him to go with him out to the Plain
west of the town, to drive his team ; But as there was no guard going that day to that
part of the town, I refused to go with him. He then went alone ; but when the news
came into town that Harris was killed, there was an alarm made, and the people rallied
out in search of him, and I was the first who found him dead.
I am now the oldest man living in the county of Litchfield, save one. I attended
the first funeral that was ever attended in this town, of a white person. I have been
a mighty hunter in my early life; I have killed five Deer in this town in one day.
I went up to Ticonderoga" in the late revolutionary war, with Colonel Hinman. I
was active in the French War in the year 1756, till the year 1762. I was a conductor
254 HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
of teams and horses, bj' which means I obtained the title of Captain. I married about
the age of 21, and lived with my wife 62 years, and she died — by whom I had nine
cliildren ; three died young, and six lived to settle in the world in the marriage state.
I have had 48 grandcliildren, 133 great-grandchildren, and sundry of the 5th genera-
tion, bxit the number I cannot ascertaiii. I am now 91 years old. I have enjoyed a
firm constitution. I was able the last smnmer to mow and reap, and very probably
shall do some this season.
I cannot boast of holding many places of office and trust in this town, though I have
been a Nuisance Committee above forty years, and have endeavored to be faithful in
removing encroachments from the highways. But the young ones are now rising up,
and til ink thev know more than the old man: but I am alive yet, though I have ex-
perienced almost everything but death. ZEBULON GIBBS.
Litchfield, June 30, 1802."
The Press and Politics.
On Tuesday, December 21, 1784, was issued in this town the first number of
" The Weekly Monitoi", and American Advertizer," printed by Collier & Copp, "in
the south end of the Court House." It contains only three Litchfield advertize-
ments, viz.. 1. That of William Russell, Stocking Weaver, [from Norwich, England,]
who announced that he was ready to make " worsted, cotton and linen .Jacket and
Breeches Patterns, men's and women's Stoekings, Gloves, and Mitts." 2. That of
Zalmon Bedient, Barber, who offers cash for human Hair, at his barber's shop " a few
rods north of the Court House in Litchfield." 3. That of Cornelius Thayer, Brazier,
who gives notice that he carries on business at the shop of Col. Miles Beach, in North
street — at which shop the Jewelers' and Silversmith's business " is carried on as usual
by said Beach."
The Monitor was contmued for a period of 22 years: for 16 years of which, it had
no rival in the town. It was printed on a sheet about one-third the present size of the
Litchfield Enquirer — with course type, and coarse blue paper. A smgle compositor
might have set the type in a single day for all the new matter which was contained
in some of the weekly issues. Yet it is a most interesting epitome of the olden times.
From it we are able to glean very many facts and events in the history of this town
and county, which are preserved no where else. Until after the advent of the present
century, both the town and county were federal in their politics; and the Monitor was
was at once the organ and the oracle of the federal party in this region.
In August, 1805, two young printers — Messrs. Sellick Osborn and Timothy Ashley
came to this town and established The Witness, a violent democratic newspaper.
The Witness was edited by Mr. Osl)orn, who, though a man of talents and energy,
was a most imscrupulous partizan and bitter satirist. Though there was a formida-
ble minority of democrats in tlie township at this time, Litchfield Hill was the strong-
hold of Federalism. Tallmadge, Reeve, Wolcott, Deming, Gould, Tracy, Holmes,
Allen Aaron Smith, Rev. Messrs. Champion and Huntington, and indeed nearly all
the leading men of the village, were Federalists, and looked upon Jeflerson as an infi-
del and reprobate. Subsequent to the Presidential Election of 1800, (which resulted in
the choice of Jefferson to the Presidency,) the partizan sermons and prayers of Messrs.
Champion and Huntington of the congregational church had driven several^ of their
church members (including Deacon Lewis) to Episcopacy. On one occasion, after
a polit
pion, I
(John* -„ ^ m, 1 -, 7 • ;,,
President (Jeflerson) a double portion of Thy grace, /or Thou hnowest he needs tf ! '
The summary withdrawal of so many members, caused the first chiu'ch no little em-
barrassment. A formal expulsion was proposed; but some of them occupied high
social positions, and others were nearly allied to remaining members. The matter was
finally adjusted by a simple withdrawal of the " watch and fellowship" of the church
from the the seceders. The feeling of hostility between federalists and democrats
was such that prominent men living the same neighborhood refused to recognize each
other when they met; federal ladies refused even to make formal calls at the houses
of their democratic neighbors ; and the children of federalists were forbidden to as-
sociate with those of the hated democrats. Such was the state of feeling on Litchfield
Hill when The Witness opened its batteries on the ranks of Federalism. At first, its
saults were treated with contempt. Osborn gi-ew bolder, more bitter, and more per-
sonal—gathering up and parading before the public the foibles or follies (real or man-
ufactured) of the principal men of the village, against whose honor no word of suspi-
cion had before been breathed. Charges and insinuations of hypcrisy and crime were
THE PRESS AND POLITICS 255
freely blended with the most scathing ridicule. This was " bearding the lion in his
den." It was not long before Osborn was indicted, tried and convicted, of a libel on
Julius Deming, Esq. Osborn and his partner, Ashley, were both subjected to a fine,
in default of the payment of which, both were committed to the County Jail. Ashley
was soon liberated; and Osborn micjht have been had he complied with the terms of
the court. But, as he himself expressed it, " the only alternative offered him, was to
have either his body or 'mind imprisoned, of course he remained in confinement." His
friends regarded liim as a martyr to his political fidelity. It was published far and
wide through the columns of the democratic journals, that his health was sinking from
confinement "in a damp and loathsome cell:" that a maniac charged with murder
was thrust into the same cell with him, &c. On the 4tli of July, 1806, a meeting of
the democrats of Litchfield was held at Phelps' Hotel, at which a committee of three
was appointed " to repair to the prison and learn the true situation of Mr. Osborn,
and his treatment since his imprisonment, and to report at an adjourned meeting."
At the adjourned meeting, on the 14th, the committee reported, in substance, that they
had visited Mr. 0. at the jail: that he was confined in the same room with two crim-
inals, both charged with capital offences ; that his room was formed of damp and rag-
ged stone walls, in which the air was impure, stagnant and offensive, and so dark
that it was difiiciilt to distinguish one's features ; that his friends were generally denied
admission to his room, and could only have intercourse with him through the outer
grate of the prison; that his health was failing, &c.. &c From this date, the com-
mittee visited the prison from time to time, and issued their weekly bulletins through
the columns of The Witness. In vain Sheriff Landon denied the truth of the com
mittee's original report. The story of Osborn's persecutions went abroad over the
land. The democracy of distant States held indignation meetings, at which Osborn
was extolled, the Connecticut Com-ts denounced, and the Litchfield federalists execra-
ted At length it was resolved to have a gi'and ovation in behalf of Osborn, at Litch-
field— and the 6th of August was fixed upon for the celebration. The great day
finally arrived, and with it came an immense concourse of democrats from this and
other States. Day-break was greeted with the discharge of one gun at the head of
North street, a responsive discharge an the flag-staff' on the Public Green, and martial
music until sun-rise. At Sun-Rise, 17 guns were fired — with martial music. At 11,
the procession moved in the following order, viz..
Military — commanded by Major Stephen Ranney ; Lieut. Swett, U. S. Officer sta-
tioned at Springfield, acting as Marshal, John M. Fekler, as Adjutant, and Chauncey
Hotchkiss, as Quarter-Master — consisting of
Cavalry, commanded by Captain Carter.
Band of Music.
• Matross company from Danbury, commanded by Lieut. Ambler,
do. do. of this town, commanded by Capt. Bissell.
do. do. composed of boys, in white uniform.
Light Infantry, commanded by Captain Shethar.
Infantry, commanded by Captain Grannis.
do. commanded by Lieut. Stone,
do. commanded by Ensign Norton.
Two of the Committee of Arrangements.
Clergy and Orator,
Genei-al Timothy Skinner, President of the Day,
Moses Seymour, Esq., ^
John Welch, Esq. > Vice Presidents of the Day,
Ozias Lewis, Esq, )
Six of the Committee of Arrangement,
Marshals of Connecticut and Vermont,
Collectors of New Haven and Middletown,
Citizens generally.
The procession passed under Osborn's prison window, with heads uncovered, each
saluting the prisoner with a passing bow, and the military giving him a brigadier's
salute. Notwithstanding the hatred with which many of the congregationalists regarded
democracy, the society's committee had generously tendered the use of their meeting-
house for the occasion. Thither the procession wended. The services in the church
consisted of a prayer by the Kev. Asahel Morse, (Baptist,) of Suffield; Reading of the
Declaration of Independence, by Jonathan Law, Esq,, of Cheshire ; an Oration, by
David Plant, Esq, of Stratford, [since member of congress and lieut. governor] : and
an Address by Joseph L, Smith, Esq, of Litchfield.
Before the arrival of the procession at the church, an occurrence took place which
created much ill-feeling and comment at the time. Messrs. Champion and Hunting-
ton entered the church, and were proceeding up the aisle toward the pulpit, when
(according to Mr. Champion's statement,) he was seized near the shoulder by Joseph
L , Smith, Esq, a member of the committee of arrangements, who pulled him around,
256 HISTOEY OF LITCHFIELD.
saying — " You have no business here, and must go out of the house." Mr. C. rephed,
that he was an old man, and wished for liberty to sit in the pulpit, assuring him that
he would make no disturbance. Mr. Smith grew more boisterous, and the two cler-
gymen withdrew. Mr. Smith and his friends published a very different version of the
story; while the federalists reiterated that Smith had at first boasted of the exploit,
and'declared that he would have called the military to his aid if it had been necessary
in ejectino- the intriulers. Mr. Champion seems to have taken the matter very seri-
ously. "1 was much afflicted," he wrote, " at being cast out of the House of God,
where I had woeshipped almost 54 years, and could expect to be there but a few days
more. These reflections crowded into my mind, when ejected and retiring from the
place where God's honor had dwelt."
At the annual election in October, 1805, it maybe remarked, not a single democrat
had been chosen to the Legislature in Litchfield county ; and the federalists had not
been backward in taunting Osborn about the " revolution" which it was said he had
boasted he would produce in this region. At the annual election in May, 1806, the
tables had been partially reversed by the election of two democratic Representatives
from Litchfield by a vote of 314 to 308. A portion of the democratic enthusiasm in
behalf of Osborn, is attributable to an appreciation of his services in producing this
As an incident of the celebration, it is mentioned that during the day, a placard
was displayed on the door of one of principal Hotels, bearing the significant words —
" No Demockats admitted heee." Some gentlemen from a distance put up, as
was their custom when this way, with an intimate friend, who chanced to be a rank
federalist. He soon enquired if they had come to attend the celebration; and on be-
ing answered in the affirmative, he abruptly replied — "Then you cannot be accommo-
dated at my house. As old friends, I should have been glad to see you ; as democrats
I want nothing to do with you !" Such was the spirit of the times.
When the services in the church were over, the procession was re-formed and pro-
ceeded to a large Bower which had been erected in the meadow on the south side of
East street, nearly opposite the Jail, where a cold repast had been prepared by Capt.
Phelps. Seventeen regular toasts were drank, accompanied by the discharge of can-
non and music from the baud. Among them were the following :
"Justice — May false witnesses, perjured judges, and packed juries, be banished
from its courts."
" Selleck Osborn — Like Daniel in the lion's den, he is teaching his persecutors that
the beasts cannot devour him." [3 cheers.]
" Liberty of the Press — Litchfield Jail its stronghold." [3 cheers.]
" The Political Clergy — If there were twenty Gods, perhaps some one might ap-
prove their services; but the one God wants no political pastors." [8 cheers.]
" The memory of our departed friend, Ephraim Kirby — His virtues will live while
our memory lasts; his merits shall be known to posterity."
" Litchfield Jail — Our votes will level it as the ram's 'horns did the walls of Jeri-
cho." [6 cheers.]
The Witness complains that the name of Major Seymour was stricken from the roll
of Justices of the Peace for this county, by the Legislature, (May 1807,) because of his
participation in the 6th of August celebration.
In June 1807, The Witness gives the following summary of the suits against Messrs
Osborn and Ashley, viz. :
" Fine and costs in libel suit with J. Deming, Esq., $346 46
For publishing case of TaUmadge & Wolcott vs. General Hart,
with comments thereon, fine and costs, 605 98
For slandering Thomas Collier, 622 00
(Besides cost of complaint in favor of Mr. Ashley against Thomas G.
Collier, which complaint the county court dismissed.)
Aggregate, $1,474 44
Osborn was not the only man involved in libel suits in those days. The Hon. Tap-
ping Reeve, and Capt. Thomas Collier of the Monitor, were both indicted before the
U. S. District Court at New Haven, for libeling President Jefferson; and the Rev.
Dan Huntington, of this village, recovered $1,000 fromMaj. Babcock, of the Hartford
Mercury, a democratic paper.
The Witness was discontinued in the summer of 1807 — having been published about
two years. Selleck Osborn was a native of Danbury ; and, after leaving Litchfield,
published The Delaware Watchman, at Wilmington, Del. A volume of his Poems
was pubhshed in Boston. He died in Philadelphia in 1826.
The Litchfield Monitor was discontinued in 1806 — having beeu published by Mr.
Collier for 22 years. Thomas Collier (son of Richard) was born in Boston, Feb. 20,
1760, and died in Binghamton, N. Y., 1844. On leaving this town, he resided for sev-
eral years in Troy. InJuue, 1799, an orphan lad of 14 years, named John C. Wright,
OUR PARKS. 2S7
from Wetliersfield, entered the Monitor Office as an apprentice, remained witli Mr.
Collier until of age, married his daughter Mary, and for some time published a paper
in Ti-oy. Having been admitted to the bar, he settled in Steubenville, Ohio, in tiie
winter of 1809-'10; and in 1831, he removed thence to Cincinnati, where the venera-
ble couple are still living. Mr. Wright has been State's Attorney, member of Con-
gress, U. S. Attorney for the District of Ohio, and Judge of the Supreme Court. In
1834, he received the degree of Doctor of Laws from a Kentucky college.
The Litchfield Gazette was commenced in January', 1808, by Messrs. Cliarles Hos-
mer and Oliver Goodwin, both from Hartford. The Gazette was discontinued May 17,
1809. Mr. Hosmer returned to Hartford, where he is still engaged in mercantile bu-
siness, and has been for many years the Hecording Secretary of the Connecticut His-
torical Society. Mr. Goodwin remained in this village as a bookseller and stationer
until his death in 1855.
Isaiah Buuce came to this town soon after, and commenced The Litchfield Journal,
• the name of which was changed to The Litchfield Republican in 1819 — which, in
turn, was succeeded by The Miscellany, a small quarto, in July, 1821. In Septem-
ber, 1822, Ml-. Bunce commenced in this village the publication of The American
Eagle, which he removed to New Haven in March, 1820. Mr. Bunce was a man of
enterprize, and established a Bookstore, Reading Room, and Circulating Library;
and was for a few years a Justice of the Peace.
The Litchfield County Post was established in 1826, by Stephen S. Smith, from
Poultney, Vermont. He disposed of the establishment to Joshua Garrett, who, after
publishing the Post for a few weeks, sold out to Henry Adams in 1829. Mr. Adams
soon changed the name of the paper to The Litchfield Enquirer, vaiich it still
bears. After editing and publishing The Enquirer for about thirteen years, he was
accidentally drowned, while fishing, by breaking through the ice or Bantam river,
near the entrance of that stream into Bantam Lake. Mr. A. was a son of the late
Joseph Adams, Esq., of this village, and was a talented and popular editor. His broth-
er, Charles Adams, Esq., succeeded him in the publication of the Enquirer. From
1845 to 1853, the paper was conducted by P. K. Kilbourn. H. W. Hyatt and E. C.
Goodwin afterwards successively became proprietors of the establishment. The pres-
ent publishers are Messrs. Adams and Betts. The Enquirer is now in its 34th volume.
Nov. 3, 1833, Melzer Gardner, from Hartford, commenced The Litchfield Democrat,
which was discontinued in September, 1834, Subsequently, while editing a paper in
Richmond, Va., Gardner was shot on board a steamboat near that city, by a man to
whom he had given ofiense by an article which he had published.
The Litchfield Sun was commenced by John M. Baldwm, (a native of this town ) in
February, 1835; sold out to S. G. Hayes, of New Haveu, in Sept. 1837, who discon-
tinued it in April, 1839.
In January, 1840, Charles E. Moss & Co. commenced The Mercury, which was
transferred to Josiah Giles in the following August. It was discontinued some time in
1842. The Mercury was soon succeeded by The Democratic Watchman, also pub-
lished by Mr. Giles, which was discontinued in 1844.
In 1845, J. K. Averill commenced the New Milford Republican, at New Milford;.iu
September, 1846, he removed his ofiice to this village, and changed the name of his
paper to the Litchfield Republican. W. F. & G. H. Baldwin, Albert Stoddard, and
Franklin Hull, successively continued the publication of the Republican. In 1856
the office was removed to Falls Village, where the paper is still continued mider the
name of The Housatonic Republican.
All these papers, it should be remarked, were published weekly.
OUR PARKS.
Our East and West Parks, which now add so much to the beauty of our village,
were graded, enclosed, and planted with trees, in the summer of 1836. During the
preceding year, the subject had been considered by our citizens, in connection witii
several natives of this town residing in New York city, and the sum of $600 was
readily subscribed for the object. On the 2d of January, 1836, a special town meet-
ing was held — Roger Cook, Moderator, and George C. VVoodruti', Clerk jjro tem. At
this meeting full permission was granted to the committee appointed by the subscrib-
ers of the fund to enclose and " improve as they shall see proper," that portion of the
Green or Highway at present enclosed in the parks referred to. One of the most effi-
cient and active members of the first Park Committee (and who, perhaps, did more
than any other person in raising the Park Fund,) was the late Dr. J. S. Wolcott, of
this village, a son of the last Gov. Wolcott.
On the 4tli of October, 1858, the town voted that the inhabitants of this village
' have leave to construct, without expense to the town, a Park in the conunon ground
between the East and- West Parks, in such suitable place as a committee appointed by
this meeting shall designate, in such way as shall not materially interfere with travel.'
34
258 HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD
The Litchfield Law School.
This institution was established in 1784, by Tapping Reeve, Esq., (afterwards
chief justice of the State, and LL. D.,) who was the sole Principal until 1798, when
the Hon. James Gould, LL. D., became associated with him. This was the first in-
stitiition of the kind in the country; and, as its conductors were learned and eminent
men, it attained a wide-spread renown. From 1820, Judge Gould conducted the
School alone for several years ; when the Hon. Jabez W. Huntington became his as-
sistant. In consequence of the failing health of Judge Gould, it was discontinued in
1833. Up to that time the number of students had been 1,024 — every State then in the
Union having been represented. Of this number, 15 became U. S. Senators; 50
members of Congress; 40 Judges of the higher State courts: 10 Governors of States;
5 members of the National Cabinet, i,]\Iessrs. Calhoun, "Woodbury, Mason, Clayton
and Hubbard;) 2 Judges Supreme Court United States, (Henry Baldwin and Levi
Woodbury;) 1 Vice President of the United State, (John C. Calhoun;) and several
Foreign Ministers — among whom is the Hon. John Y. Mason, our present Ambassa-
dor to France.
At the annual dinner of the " Story Association" of the Cambridge Law School,
(Mass.,) in 1851, the following reference was made to our Law School. Mr. Loring,
like scores of his fellow-students, married a Litchfield lady.
Judge Kent gave —
" The first-born oj^ the law schools of this country — the Litchfield Laic School. The
Boston bar exhibits its rich and ripened fruits. By them we may judge of the tree
and declare it good."
Hon. C. G. Loring, replied. He began with expressing his regret that there was no
other representative from the Litchfield Law School present to respond to the compli-
mentary but just notice of that institution.,
" I do not remember, said he, to have ever been more forcibly reminded of my
younger days, than when looking around iipon our young friends in the midst of
whom I stand. It recalls the time when I, too, was a student among numerous fellow
students. It will, probably, be news to them and many others here, that thirty-eight
years ago, which to many here seems a remote antiquity, there existed an extensive
Law School in the state of Connecticut, at which more than sixty students from all
parts of the country were assembled, — every State then in the Union, being there
represented. I joined it in 1813, when it was at its zenith, and the only prominent
establishment of the kind in the land.
The recollection is as fresh as the events of j'esterday, of our passing along the
broad shaded streets of one of the most beautiful of the villages of New England,
with our inkstands in our hands, and our portfolios under our arms, to the lecture
room of Judge Gould — the last of the Romans, of Common Law lawyers; the imper-
sonation of its genius and spirit. It was, indeed, in his eyes, the perfeetion of human
reason — by which he measured every principle and rule of action, and almost every
sentiment. Why, Sir, his highest visions of poetry seemed to be in the refinement of
special pleading; and to him, a nan sequitur in logic was an offense deserving, at the
least, fine and imprisonment — and a repetition of it, transportation for life. He was
an admirable English scholar; every word was pure Enghsh, undefiled, and every
sentence fell from liis lips perfectly fi"nished, as clear, transparent, and penetrating as
light, and every rule and principle as exactly defined and limited as the outline of a
building against the sky. From him, Sir, we obtained clear, well-defined, and accu-
rate knowledge of the Common Law, and learned that allegiance to it was the chief
duty of man, and the power of enforcing it upon others his highest attainment. From
his lecture room we passed to that of the venerable Judge Reeve, shaded by an aged
elm, fit emblem of himself. He was, indeed, a most venerable man, in character and
appearance — his thick, gray hair parted and falling in profusion upon his shoulders,
his voice only a loud whisper, but distinctly heard by his earnestly attentive pupils.
He, too, was full of legal learning, but invested the "law with all the genial enthusi-
asm and generous feelings and noble sentiments of a large heart at the age of eigh-
tj', and descanted to us with glowing eloquence upon the sacredness and majesty
of law. He was distinguished, Sir, bj^ that appreciation of the gentler sex which
never tails to mark the true man, and his teachings of the law in reference to their
rights and to the domestic relations, had great influence in elevating and refining the
sentiments of the young men who were privileged to hear him. As illustrative of
his feelings and manner upon this subject, allow me to give a specimen. He was dis-
cussing the legal relations of married women: he never called them, however, by so
inexpressible a name, but always spoke of them as, "the better half of mankind,"
or in some equally just manner. When he came to the axiom that " a married
Avoman has no will of her own; " this, he said, was a maxim of great theoretical im-
SOUTH FARMS SOCIETY. 259
portance for the preservation of the sex against the undue influence or coercion of the
husband; but, although it was an inflexible maxim, in theory, experience taught us
that practically it was found that they sometimes had wills of their own — most hap-
pily FOR us.
We left his lecture room, Sfl-, the very knight errants of the law, burning to be the
defenders of the right and the avengers of the wrong; and he is no true son of the
Litchfield School who has ever forgotten that lesson. I propose. Sir
The Memories of Judge Jieere ondJndge Gould, — among the first, if not the first
founders of a National Law School in the United States — who have laid one of the
corner stones in the foundation of true American patriotism, loyalty to the law.
SOUTH FARMS.
From 1740 to 1767, the people residing in the southern section made several unsuc-
cessful applications to the Legislature — first, " to be annexed to the north society of
Woodbury; second, to be allowed what were termed "winter privileges;" and,
finally, to be set off as a distinct ecclesiastical society. In December, 1760, the in-
habitants of South Farms, having obtained permission of the Legislature "to enjoy
the privileges of a winter parish for three months in a year," asked the town to be re-
leased from a part of their tax for bnilding the meeting-house on the Hill. Whereupon
it was voted in town meeting, that " in case South Farms shall become a distinct
ecclesiastical society within forty-five years, the town will pay back to said society
the money advanced by said winter parishioners towai'd building said meeting-
house." in 1761, the Legislature voted that the inhabitants of South Farms "be
allowed to have the Gospel preached to them for four months in the winter season,
and shall have liberty to build a meeting-house; " and three years later, they voted
to build a winter house 35 feet long, 25 feet wide, with nine feet posts, "provided Jus-
tus Gibbs will do it for £70 : 10."
_ In 1767, the society of South Farms was duly incorporated, and its inhabitants have
since transacted their ecclesiastical and educational aftairs sepai-ately from those
residing in other portions of the town. The act of 1857, it should be remarked,
restores to the town all business relating to schools. The first person buried in that
part of the town, was Mr. James Stoddard, who was killed at the raising of a dwell-
ing house. I have already given specimens of the orthography of certain portions of
the town records. The records of South Farms's Society were by no means an
improvement upon them. For instance, on the 14th of March, 1759, the society voted
"to pay Charles Woodruff six shillings for Bears to carry ye dead." In 1769, it
was voted " that we think the sealing ordinances are equally sacred, and any person^
that is qualified for one is qualified for both." In 1770, "voted that we approve of
the church vote, viz., that conversion should not be a term for admission for church
communion." In 1776, the town granted to Thomas Wangh, and his heirs forever,
the right to use a certain burying ground in South Farms for pasfurinff, " provided
he or they shall keep up and maintain convenient bars for the people to pass and re-
pass for the purpose of burying their dead." In 1785, a new and commodious church
was erected. In April of that year, the society voted that " the meeting-house com-
mittee shall have good right to furnish Rum, Grindstones and Ropes, sufficient for fram-
ing the meeting-house according to their best discretion," and in June, an overseer
was appointed to direct the issue of liquor at the raising, and a vote at the same time
was passed that said overseer "shall give two drams a day to the spectators, one_ a
little before noon, and the other a little before night." The present church was built
in 1844. The present pastor. Rev. David L. Parmelee, was settled in 1841.
President Dwight, of Yale college, (in his Travels,) gives the following interesting
facts relative to this parish, and the" Academy which formerly flourished there :
" Immediately above Watertown lies South Farms — the southern part of Litchfield.
This parish is principally a collection of hills, which are high, moist, and excellent
grazing ground. The surface is pleasant, the houses good farmers' dwellings, of
which'^a little village is formed around the church. The inhabitants are industrious
andthi'ifty; and distinguished for good morals, good order, and decency of deport-
ment. A flourishing academy has been raised of late, almost solely by the efibrts of
James Morris, Esq., who is at once its founder and preceptor. This gentleman, soon
after he had finished his education at Yale College, becam.e an ofiicer in the American
army, in which he continued throughout the revolutionary war. After the peace, his
parents and his patrimony being in this place, he was induced to establish himself
here for life. At his return, he found the inhabitants less enlightened and less refined
than those of many other parts of the state. What in this country is perhaps sin-
gular, they regarded him, both as a man liberally educated and as an ofiicer, with
suspicion and alienation. At the same time he perceived, with not a little mortifica-
260 HiSTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
tion, that they were in many instances ignorant and vicious. As he had been absent
from his early youth, his influence among them -vvas to be created. With a disposi-
ion, which cannot be enough commended, he determined to commence in form the work
of a general reformation. After various experiments, sufficiently discouraging, among
those who have an-ived at middle age, he turned his attention to their children; and
hoped by communicating to them the advantages of a well-directed education to
furnish their minds with both knowledge and virtue, and thus to transform their
character into amiableness and worth. For this benevolent purpose he founded the
institution which I have mentioned. In this Academy it has, from the first, been the
commanding object to inculcate the best principles of morality and religion, and to
require of the stiulents an unexceptionable deportment. The youths of both sexes,
usually assembled here from various parts of the countiy, are in number from 40 to
70. Mr. Morris has had the satisfaction of seeing his expectations more than realized.
Not only were the benefits of his design realized by the inhabitants of South Farms,
but they are spread also through most parts of the country, and extensively through
this and the neighboring states. This is one among the proofs fui-nished by experience
of the power possessed by an individual, of spreading around him, if properly dis-
posed, the best blessing of societj'."
St. Paul's Masonic Lodge.
The first Charter of this Lodge was obtained fi-om the R. W. Joseph Webb, " Grand
Master of Masons in America," then residing in Boston, and bears date June 1, 1781.
It was granted on petition of the following persons, viz. Rev. James Nichols, John
Watkius, Thomas Philips, Eaton Jones, Benjamin Hanks, John Collins, Noah Blakes-
lee, Wm. Durkee, Daniel Starr, John Colvill, Jonathan Kettle, Josiah Norton and
Adino Hale — about half of whom belonged in this town, the remainder in Goshen and
Harwinton. The first meeting of the Lodge was held June 13, 1781 — the Rev. Ashbel
Baldwin presiding as Master. The following other offieers were chosen — Benjamin
Hanks, S. W. ; Eaton Jones, J. W. ; John Collins, Treasurer; and J. Kettle, Secre-
tary. On the 15th of October, 1790, the Lodge received a new charter from the Grand
Lodge of the State, in which it is designated as " St. Paul's Lodge, No. 11." It has
numbered among its members some of our most eminent citizens.
The following the present officers of the Lodge: — David E. Bostwick, W. M. ; F.
D. Beeman, S. W.; Levi Curtis, J. W.; Charles L. Webb, Treasurer; Wm. H. Cross-
man, Secretary; Henry A. Hull, S. D.; George Munger, J. D.; Edward Grossman
and George Horace Baldwin, Stewards; Sheldon Munger, Tyler.
TOWN DEPOSIT FUND.
This fund was derived from the Surplus Revenue in tlie Treasury of the United
States, which, by an act of Congress passed in 1836, was distributed among the seve-
ral states in prop'ortion to their representation in that body. The share belonging to
Connecticut was, by order of the Legislature, apportioned to the several towns in the
state according to their population. The amount thus given to Litchfield was
$11,444.50. The town appointed Isaac Lawrence to be Treasurer, and Theron Beach
and George C. Woodruff to be Managers of the Town Deposit Fund. On the 9th of
April, 1838, the town voted to appoint a committee of seven to direct in what manner
the interest of the Fund should be divided among the several school districts of the
town; and Messrs. Putnam, Kilbourn, .James M. Pierpont, Dan Catlin, William Bas-
sett, Edward Pierpont, Frederick Buel and 0. S. Seymour, were appointed said com-
mittee. The Fund is invested in promissory notes, secured by mortgage, and in town
orders. The annual interest is $686.67, which is appropriated to the support of
schools.
MINERAL SPRING.
In August, 1820, James Pierce, Esq., announced in Silliman's Journal of Science
that he had discovered a valuable Mineral Spring on the eastern slope of Prospect
Mountain, in this town. The waters of the Pool (as it was called,) soon became
celebrated for their medicinal virtues, and a House was erected near by for the accom-
modetion of visitors. In March, 1821, it is stated in Silliman's Journal that the wa-
ters of this spring had "effected cures of obstinate rheumatic complaints that had
resisted ordinary remedies ;" and that they had " been sent for weekly from Hartford,
and were considered equal to those of the Stafford Spring." The Pool is now more
often visited by the lovers of wild and picturesque scenery, than for its waters.
ILLUSTRIOUS GUESTS.— I have elsewhere referred *) the visits of Washington
and LaFayette to this town. In 1807, Jerome Bonaparte, with his young American
wife, came ' with coach and four,' and put up at Catlin's Hotel. About 1820, the Hon.
Martin Van Buren came here on a visit with his friend. Judge Skinner — spending the
Sabbath, and attending Dr. Beecher's church. July 16, 1832, the Hon. John Quincy
Adams arrived in town and spent the niglit here.
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS.
261
" Litchfield, October 30tli, 1797. — We the subscribers, having at our own ex-
pense, erected a Church in the Western Pai"t of Litchfield, and being desirous of
forming ourselves into an Episcopal Society, hereby lay before, request, and peti-
tion the meeting of the First Episcopal Society in said Litchfield, to give their con-
sent to this request, and in future exempt us from paying taxes to the First Episco-
pal Society — upon condition of our organizing and taxing ourselves. All of which
we submit to said meeting in brotherly love. 9
Isaac Kilbourn,
David Kilbourn,
Sylvanus Bishop,
Solomon Kilbourn,
Joim Landon,
Jesse Kilbourn,
John Tryon,
Heber Stone,
Orange Kilbourn,
James Kilbourn,
Nathaniel Smith 2d,
Levi Kilbourn,
Simeon Palmer,
Elisha S. Munger,
James Glass,
Horace Stone,
Samuel Denison,
James Lee,
Philander Westover,
Chauncey Kilbourn,
Heman Kilbourn,
John Kilbourn,
Benjamin Doolittle,
Reuben Smith 2d,
James Adams,
Newell Miller,
Remembrance Landon,
Arunah Blakeslee,
Jacob Kilbourn,
Frederick Hunt,
Samuel Woodcock,
Thaddeus Stocker,
Noah Stone, 2d,
Samuel Hazen,
Jesse Stoddard,
Jehial Gates,
Jonathan Bishop,
Joseph Burgess,
Benjamin Bissell, 3d,
Hicks Smith,
Chauncey Denison,
Phineas tjmitli,
David Westover,
Wait Smith,
Samuel Carter,
Abel demons,
Anson Smith,
Lumbert Johnson,
Daniel Haskins
David Kenney,
Joseph Westover,
Jei-emiah Kilbourn,
Nathaniel Smith,
Milo Hunt,
Benjamin Johnson, Jr.,
A true Cop}"- of Record.
N. B. The above petition was granted the 6th day of November, 1797.
SETil LANDON, Society's Clerk.''
Miscellaneous Items.
Benefactions. — The lot on which stands St. Michael's church, in South street,
was the gift, in 1809, of Samuel Marsh, Esq., of Norfolk, Va., a native of this town.
The Town Clock in the tower of the first church, was presented to the society by
the late Dr. Abel Catlin.
Mr. Nath'lBosworth, (a member of the West Episcopal society of this town,) died
in 1801, leaving a bequest of .£100 for the purchase of a bell for the West Church.
The bell purchased with this sum is still iu use in St. Paul's church, Bantam.
In 1843, Messrs. Hugh P. and Garry Welch presented the Episcopal society in Milton
with the bell which is now in use in the church of that parish.
]yir. Solomon Marsh, soon after the completion of the first Episcopal church-edifice
in this village, presented that society- with an Oi'gan at a cost of $800.
Asa Hopkins. Esq., a native and resident of this town, died in 1838. In his will, he
gave the use of his property to his wife during her life. At her decea,se, (after the
payment of certain legacies,) he bequeathed the residue of his property to the congre-
gational church and society in Northfield. Mrs. Hopkins died in 1855. The whole
amount received by the said church and society, from Mr. Hopkins' estate, is $10,000 .
Executions. — It is believed that no native of Litchfield was ever convicted of
murder; and that wilful murder was never committed by or upon a white man, with-
in the limits of this town. In 1768, an Indian named John .lacob was hanged for the
murder of another Indian. In November, 17S5, Thomas Goss, of Barkharasted, was
executed for the murder of his wife. In these days he would have been acquitted
on the ground of insanity. On the plea that his wife was a witch, he split her head
open with an axe. Though at times apparently rational, he sometimes declared that
he was the second Lamb of God — that he was brother of Jesus Christ — that he was
the child born of the woman, mentioned in the Revelation of St. John, ' before whom
the dragon stood ready to devour the child ;' he forbid his counsel to apply for a re-
prieve; declared the sheriff could not hang him, &c. May 8, 1780, Barnet Daven-
port, aged.20 years, was executed for murder and arson in Washington. Residing as
a laborer in the family of Caleb Mallory, he entei"ed the sleeping room of ^h: and Mrs.
^lallory at midnight and beat them to death with a club ; and their little grandchild
shared the same fate. After i-obbing the house and setting it on fire, the murderer
fled, leaving two other persons asleep who perished in the flames. These persons, it
is understood, were executed in Gallows Lane, in this village. Other convictions for
capital crimes have taken place before our courts, but these are the only individuals
who have ever suffered the extreme penalty of the law in this county.
262 HISTORY OF LITCHFIELD.
JAMES WATSON, from this county, graduated at Yale college in 1776; was lieu-
tenant of a revolutionary company raised chiefly in Litchfield. After the war, he
settled in New York — became wealthy, was Speaker of the House, state Senator,
Naval Officer, and U. S. Senator; and died in 1806. Where was he horn ? The late
Douplas Watson, Esq, (assistant clerk ot our courts,) expressed to me his belief that
he was born in this town. In a reth-ed little grave-yard, about half a mile south of
Bantam Lake, is a red sandstone liUblet bearing the following inscription, viz., "To
the Memory of Mr. John Watson, who died November 9, 1781, in the 74th year of his
age. Berthyah Watson, his widow, died Jniie 24th, 1792, in the 85th year of her age.
This monument is respectfully erected hy James Watson, their youngest son." The
Hon. James Watson died in New York in 1806.
Obituaries.
In Litchfield, April, 1773, Col. Ebenezer Marsh, Esq., aged 72.
In Litchfield, Dec. 3, 1805, Capt. William Stanton, aged 78 — commander of a com-
pany in Sheldon's regiment of light dragoons in the Revolution, and for more than 40
years a resident of this town.
In Litchfield, July 30, 1802, Reynold Marvin, Esq., aged 78— King's Attorney for the
county previous tothe Revolution.
In Litchfield, June 6, 1821, Capt. Joseph Mansfield, aged 84 — an officer in the regi-
ments of colonels Meigs and Douglas in the Revolution. He was from New Haven,
but settled in this town soon after the war.
At Spadre Bluffs, on the Arkansas river, near Little Rock, Aug. 1, 1822, Colonel
Matthew Lyon, aged 75 — a native of Wicklow county, Ireland. In 1761, at the age
14, he came to this country poor and friendless, and was sold to pay his passage, to
Mr. Hugh Hannah, of Litchfield, (who is said to have lived at tlie'time on the farm
owned and occupied hj the late Mr. Grant Wlckwire, a mile south of Bantam Lake.)
Mat. was rough and independent; and Hannah was a severe disciplinai-ian, and not
unfrequently applied the rod to his refractory servant. At length an altercation en-
sued— j\Iat. threw a mallet at the head of his master, and fled. He was soon heard
from in Vermont, where, among the hardy mountaineers, he became a leader- He
was Deputy Secretary to the governor and council, clerk of the court of confiscation,
Representative in the legislature, colonel of militia, editor of a newspaper, associate
Judge of the Rutland county court, and, in 1796, was elected to Congress; and re-
elected in 1798. Removing to Kentucky in 1800, he was returned to Congress from
that State from 1803 to 1310. He married a daughter of Gov. Chittenden of Vermont.
His son, Chittenden Lyon, who was for eight years a member of congress from Ken-
tucky, was one of the most popular men in that State; and from him Lyon county was
named. Precisely how long Lyon lived in this town, is uncertain. In one of his ad-
dresses to his constituents, he says — " After living ten yenrs in Connecticut, from my
15th to my 25th year, I removed to a new settlement in Vermont." Were all of
these 'ten years' spent in Litchfield? Hannah was living here eight or ten years after
Lyon first took his seat in congress, and was fond of talking about him ; attributing his
success in life to the corporeal lessons which he had given him. The price paid by
Hannah for Mat. was a pair of stags valued at ^12 — a fact which gave rise to many a
coarse jest at the expense of the latter.
At Jackson, Mississippi Territory, Sept. 1827, Col. Stephen Ranney, U. S. A., aged
68 — formerly for more than 20 years, a resident of Litchfield.
In Litchfield, Sept. 16, 1839, the Hon. Phineas Miner, aged 60 — a distinguished mem-
ber of the bar of this county, and late member of congress.
In Phelps, Ontario co., N. Y., July 17, 1841, Colonel David McNiel, aged 53— l.ate a
.Judge of the court of common pleas for that county. He was a native of this town.
In Cazenovia, N. Y., ]\Iay 14, 1842, Jesse Kilbourn, aged 64, a native of Litchfield.
For more than 25 years he was in public life in that town — as Trustee and President
of the corporation of Cazenovia, Postmaster, Representative, &c.
In St. Augustine, Florida, May 24 1846, Col. Joseph L. Smith, aged 70 — formerly
a colonel in the army, and more recently U. S. Judge of the Eastern District of Florida.
From 1800 to 1817, (except a year or two,) he resided in this town. He married a
daughter of the Hon. Ephraim Kirby.
In Geneseo, N. Y., Nov. 28, 1846, Samuel W. Spencer, Esq., aged 76 — a native of
Litchfield. Ho had been a magistrate, and Surrogate of Livingston county.
In Litchfield, January 19, 1852, Miss Sarah Pierce, aged 84. In 1792, she established
the Litchfield Female Academy, which became one of the most celebrated institutions
in the country. She remained connected with it until 1832 — though for a few years
previous, her'nephew, John P. Brace, Esq., was the Principal. I\Iore than 2,500 young
ladies and misses were members of the Academj'. It was incorporated in 1827. The
successors of Miss Pierce have been Misses Swift, Jones, Heyden, and others.
In Hartford, Nov. 10, 1858, the Hon. Amos M. Collins, aged 70— an eminent merchant
and philanthropist. From 1843 to 1846, inclusive, he was Mayor of the city of Hart-
ford. He was a son of Dea. Wm. Collins, and was bom in Litchfield, March 30, 1788.
BIOGEAPHY. 263
BIOGRAPHICAL ADDENDA.
CHILDS, Samuel R., M. D., (son of Mr. Timothy Chikls,) was
born in Dutches county, N. Y., September 25, 1800. When the sub-
ject of this sketch was about i\\c years old, his father purchased the
mansion and tarm now known as the CMlds Place, four miles north of
the Litchfield Court House, and at once removed his family there.
Dr. Childs graduated at the Medical College in Pittsfield, Mass.,
and subsequently pursued his studies at the Institution connected with
Yale College. In May, 1825, he commenced the pi-actice of his pro-
fession in this village, and remained here until January, 1832, when
he removed to the city of New York, where he soon had an extensive
and lucrative business. He was appointed Physician to the City Dis-
pensary, one of the Surgeons of the Eye and Ear Infirmary, Physician
to the Bellvue Hospital, Health Officer of the city, &c. Though en-
thusiastically attached to his chosen profession, and one of its most
learned and skillful practioners, his energies have not been devoted
exclusively to it. In 1838, he was appointed one of tlie Commis-
sioners of the Croton Water Board. The magnitude of the work com-
mitted to their care will be appreciated, when it is known that it
required the expenditure of some $10,000,000, all of which passed
through their hands. He was long a -member of the Board of Edu-
cation ; and two or three times he was nominated for Congress in the
Third District, but declined. In 1840, and again in 1S53, Di*. Childs
visited Europe, pursuing his professional investigations in the various
hospitals of that country. With an ample fortune, he has retired
to a beautiful residence near Saratoga Springs. Colonel Heman W,
Childs, his brother, after being for several years a merchant and
manufacturer in Litchfield, removed to New York in 1834, where
he was chosen a Representative, Collector of the City Revenue, and
Commissioner of Streets and Lamps ; he died in 1851,
GALPIN, Robert E., (son of Mr. Amos Galpin,) was born, in
Litchfield ; settled in Stockbridge, Mass., where he still resides. Be-
sides holding various town offices, he was chosen a Representative in
1844 and again in 1845 ; and for the last twelve years, he has been
a Justice of the Peace. In 1852, he was elected President of the
Housatonic Agricultural Society.
STOWE, Mrs. Harriet Beecher, (daughter of the Rev. Lyman
Beecher, D. D.,) was born in Litchfield, and married the Rev. Dr.
Stowe, now Professor in the Theological Seminary at Andover. She
is the author of T]ie May Flower, Uncle Tom's Cabin, Dred — a Tale
of the Dismal Swamp, Sunny Memories of Foreign Lands, &c.
Each of these works, except the first, is published in two volumes.
Uncle Tom's Cabin has had a^ much more rapid sale than any other
American work. Her tour through England and Scotland, a few
years since, was like a continued ovation. Wherever she went, she
was welcomed with public addresses, private invitations, assemblies
and festivals ; indeed, the aristocracy and peasantry seemed to vie
with each other in their efforts to do honor to their distinguished guest.
No other lady from this side of the ocean was ever received by them
with such enthusiasm.
264 HISTORY OP LITCHFIELD.
WADS WORTH, General Elijah, was born in Hartford, Nov. 14,
1747: settled in Litchfield previous to the Revolution; was Captain
in Sheldon's Regiment of Light Dragoons during nearly the entire
war. In 1795, he associated himself with Messrs. Ephraim Kirby,
Elijah Boardman, Uriel Holmes, sen'r and jun'r, and Samuel A.
Law, in organizing the Connecticut Land Company and purchasing
the Western Reserve; and the town of Wads worth, in Medina coun-
ty, was named from him. On the 15th of September, 1802, he started
from Litchfield with his family for Ohio, arriving at Canfield on the
17th of October — thus making the journey in 33 days. In January,
1803, he was elected Sheriff" of Trumbull county; and about a year
later, he was appointed by the Legislature Major General of the 4th
Division. By the surrender of Hull in August, 1812, the defense of
the entire North Western Frontier of Ohio devolved upon General
Wadsworth. He soon organized a force 1,500 men from his Division,
placed them under the command of Brig. Gen. Perkins, who reported
them to General Harrison. In November, General Wadsworth re-
turned from the frontiers in feeble health — having reached the age of
65. In the summer of 1815, he had a paralytic shock which dis-
abled him thereafter, He died in Canfield, Ohio, Dec. 30, 1817, in
his 71st year. He married Rhoda Hopkins, of Litchfield, Feb. 16th,
1789, and had five children, all born in this town. One of these,
Frederick, of Akron, Ohio, was Major and Inspector in the war of
1812; has since been Sheriff of Portage County, Senator, &c.
WRIGHT, George F., the celebrated artist, was born of Litch-
field parents in the adjoining town of Washington, and was brought
up from childhood in this town. In 1856, he received a commission
from the Legislature of his native State, to paint the portraits of all
the chief magistrates who have filled the executive chair of Connec-
ticut. This important and interesting work he accomplished in such
a manner as to give universal satisfaction. These portraits now
adorn the Senate Chamber at Hartford. Mr. Wright has since spent
two years at Rome and Munich, during a large part of which time he
was a pupil of the celebrated Kaulbach. He is the inventor of an
entirely new system of coloring, which is said by competent judges to
be superior to anything hitherto in use. A well known amateur,
writing recently from Europe to the New York Home Journal, says
— " I saw in a studio, a few days since, two small works by a Connec-
ticut artist named Wright, which impressed me by their wonderful
beauty of color. I hesitate not to say, that one of them equalled any
piece of fiesh painting I ever saw, and I know of no approach to them
in modern art. If these two productions are fair specimens of his
system and powers, there has been no greater colorist since Titian."
Mr. Wright is now pui'suing his profession in Hartford.
WESSELLS, Henry W., Major U. S. Army, (son of Dr. Ashbel
Wessells,) was born in Litchfield, February 20, 1809, graduated at
West Point in 1833, and entered the army as brevet second lieutenant.
He was actively engaged in the Creek war, in the Florida war, and
in the war with Mexico; For his gallant services in the latter war,
he was promoted to his present rank, and the Legislature of Connec-
ticut, in the name of the State, presented him with a splendid sword.
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