BOSTON PUBLIC
LIBRARY
FORM NO 522 : 5,3.54. fit.
A VOLUME
EECOKDS
RELATING TO THE
EARLY HISTORY or BOSTON
CONTAINING
BOSTON TOWN EECORDS, 1796 TO 1813
BOSTON
MUNICIPAL PRINTING OFFICE
1905
\
[DOCUMENT 115 — 1905.]
REGISTRY DEPARTMENT
CITY OF BOSTON
KECOKDS RELATING TO THE EAELY HISTORY
OF BOSTON
(Formerly called Record Commissioners1 Reports)
This volume, which is the thirty-fifth in the series formerly
issued under the direction of the Record Commissioners, contains
the proceedings of the town from April, 1796, to October, 1813,
containing the town proceedings in the ninth book of the original
records of the town of Boston.
EDWARD W. McGLENEN,
City Registrar.
OLD COUKT HOUSE, BOSTON.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS.
[NINTH BOOK.]
[1] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned in
public Town meeting the 4th day of July A. D. 1796. at old
south Church, & adjournment.
Warrant for calling the meeting at Faneuil Hall.
William Cooper
Moderator.
The Committee appointed the last year, to make
choice of a Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the Anniversary
of Independence, Reported
that they had made choice of John LOTHROP
Esq. who had accepted.
Voted that the Gentlemen, the Selectmen, acquaint Mr. Lothrop
with this Vote. —
AN ORATION.
to commemorate the independence of the United States, was
delivered by John Lothrop Esq. at the old South Church. —
On Motion, voted that the Selectmen be and hereby are
appointed a Committee to wait on John Lothrop Esq., and in the
name of the Town, to thank him for the spirited and elegant
Oration, this day delivered by him, at the request of the Town,
upon the Anniversary of the Independence of the United States
of America, in which, according to the [2] Institution of the
Town, he considered the feelings, manners and principles which
led to that great national Event, and to request of him a Copy
thereof for the press. —
On Motion, Voted that the Gentlemen Select men, be, and
hereby are appointed a Committee to apply to some one learned
and able Gentleman, to deliver an Oration on the 4th of July
A. D. 1797. That day being the Anniversary of the Independ-
ance of the United States of America, wherein the Orator is to
2 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
consider the feelings, manners and principles, which led to that
great national event, as well as the important and happy effects,
whether general or domestic, which have already and will forever
flow from that auspicious epoch.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
[3.] At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned, in
public Town-meeting, assembled at Faneuil-hall, on Friday the
8th day of July, A.D. 1796. ten O'Clock A. M.
Warrant for calling this meeting read.
Hon. Thomas Crafts Esq.
chosen Moderator, of this meeting, by a hand Vote.
The Article in the Warrant viz. To consider the application
of the Directors of the Acqueduct Corporation in Boston, for
laying the Pipes thro' the Town land, and to have a right to
repair the same read, whereupon
Voted that the Select-men, be a Committee to take up this
matter at large, and report at the adjournment.
The Application ' ' that liberty may be obtained for placing
posts in the passageway, leading from Ann-Street to where the
late swing bridge stood " read and committed
Hon. Thomas Dawes Esq.
Jos. May
Paul Revere Esqs
to consider the same, and report at the Adjournment.
[4.] The Petition of Samuel Cooper, for the purchase of a
small piece of land at the back of his Store, read, and after de-
bate, it was moved and voted ; — that the Petitioner have leave to
withdraw his Petition. —
The article in the Warrant, viz. whether the town will take
measures to place the money in the Union-bank, on Interest,
read and committed to
Thomas Dawes
Judge Minot
Samuel Brown
John Codman &
William Thompson Esqs
to consider and report thereon, at the adjournment.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1796. 3
The Petition of James Lovet Esq. and others, relative to land,
where the late Rope-walks stood — read and debated, whereupon
Voted that the Select-men be impowered and directed to ex-
change the Town's right, in a certain ten foot passage-way, lying
between the late Rope- walks, near Hutchinson Street, for an
equal width upon Hutchinson Street, to be conveyed to the town,
for the widening & accommodations of said Street, and that the
Select-men be authorized to give and receive the necessary deed,
securing the same, provided that no houses except handsome
brick-houses, not less than two stories, secured with slate or
composition, secure against fire, he erected thereon — which Vote
was passed Nem Con.
[5.] Adjourned to Monday the 18th of July Inst. 10 o'Clock
fore-noon.
Friday the 18th July. 10 o'Clock A. M. met according to ad-
journment.
The Committee appointed to consider the article in this Warrant
viz. Whether the town will take measures to place their monies
lying in the Union-bank, on Interest, reported as their opinion,
that the Agents appointed for the purpose of building a new
Alms-house, be authorized & empowered to invest the monies
lying in the Union bank, arising from the sale of Town's land
made by the said Agents in 6 per Cl. Stocks so called, until they
shall want to make use of the same, agreeable to the Commission
of their Agency.
Thomas Dawes per order.
The aforegoing Report, having been read and considered, Voted
that the same be accepted.
The Committee on the Article in the Warrant, that liberty may
be obtained for placing posts, in the passage way, leading from
Ann Street, to where the late Swing bridge stood — Report as
their opinion, that the Selectmen be authorized and empowered,
to erect a post or posts, in such place, as to prevent Carts and
Trucks passing through to Ann street, but not so as to obstruct
a passage way for Carts & Trucks [6] round the triangular
building now improved by Mr. Samuel Wells.
Thomas Dawes per order.
this Report having been considered, it was moved and voted that
the same be accepted.
The Select-men being appointed A Com66 to confer with the
Proprietors of the Aqueduct, report that they have attended that
service, have met the Proprietors and viewed the premises and
are of opinion that leave be granted to them agreeable to their
4 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
request, but as it is uncertain, and cannot as yet be determined
at which place they will enter the Town, your Committee would
recommend to the Town, that a Committee be chosen and fully
authorized to permit them to break ground, but that previous to
which, such Contract shall be made in writing, as shall hereafter
prevent any disputes, and shall not be injurious to the Town, and
yet sufficient to secure to the Proprietors, all the benefits they
wish for.
Thomas Crafts, per order.
The aforegoing Report having been read & accepted by the
Town, it was
Voted that the Selectmen be a Com66 to carry the same into
execution
[7.] The Committee appointed on the Petition of Mr. James
Thwing, Report as their opinion, that the Town ought to make
him a compensation for the Interest & damage which he suffered,
and having heard the Petitioner, are of opinion that four hundred
Dollars will be a reasonable compensation therefor.
Joseph Russell per order.
The aforegoing Report, having been read and considered, was
accepted by the Town.
The Committee to whom was referred the Petition of Lois
Clouston, pi-aying reimbursement for extra expences incurred by
the removal of the brick walls and chimneys of the former house,
destroyed by the fire 1794. having viewed the premises and
heard the parties on the subject of her Petition, and beg leave to
report —
that the sum of three hundred Dollars be allowed and
paid to the said Lois Clouston, as a reimbursement of the extra
expences incurred by removing and rebuilding Wall, Chimneys
&c. as set forth in her Petition — the said Clouston, relinquishing
all Claims to the Lands taken by the Town, in order to widen the
Street
Jona. L. Austin per order.
[8.] The foregoing Report, read, considered & accepted by
the Town.
The Committee to whom was referred the Petition of James
Tate, praying reimbursement for extra expences incurred by him
in removing the brick walls and chimneys of his former house,
destroyed by the fire in 1794. in order to accommodate the town
with a strip of land, to widen the Street have attended to that
business, viewed the premises, and heard the parties on the
subject of his Petition. Report
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1796. 5
that the sum of one hundred and fifty Dollars, be paid to the
same James Tate, as a full compensation for all the expence
incurred by him as set forth in his Petition, in addition to the
sum of fifty Dollars, allowed for the land taken by the Town.
John L. Austin
Joseph May
Elisha Sigorney
The aforegoing read, considered & accepted by the Town.
The Committee to whom was referred the Petition of James
Tate, praying reimbursement for extra expences incurred by him,
in removing the brick walls and chimnies of his former house,
destroyed by the fire in 1794. in order to accommodate the Town
with a strip of land to widen the Street — have attended to that
business [9] viewed the premises and heard the parties on the
subject of his Petition. Report.
That the sum of one hundred and fifty Dollars be paid to the
same James Tate, as a full compensation for all the expence,
incurred by him as set forth in his Petition, in addition to the
sum of fifty Dollars, allowed for the Land, taken by the Town
John L. Austin
Jos. May
Elisha Sigorney
The aforegoing read, considered and accepted by the Town.
Adjourned to Wednesday the 27th Inst. 3 O'Clock P. M. in
order for acting on the List of Jurors, laid before the town. —
And the Town Clerk is directed to notify the same in the Chron-
icle and Centinel .
Wednesday the 27th July 1796. 3 o'Clock P. M.
Town met according to adjournment.
The Select-men having as the Law directs, laid before the
Inhabitants, Lists of Persons of good moral Characters, and
such as they Judge well qualified to serve as Jurors.
The Town proceeded to examine sd Lists, and selected one
quarter of the number, being such as they judged best qualified
to. serve at [1O] the Superior Judicial Court, and their names
being written on separate pieces of Paper, were put into one of
the boxes, to be liable to be drawn out to serve on the petit Jury,
at the Supreme Judicial Court, and the remainder of said Lists,
the names being written on seperate papers, were put into the
other box, provided by the Selectmen, to serve on the petit Jury,
at the Court of Common Pleas and General Sessions of the Peace,
all being done in Town meeting, and strictly conformable to an
act, entitled " an act, for regulating the choice & services of petit
Jurors."
6 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Voted that all matters unfinished be referred over to next
general town meeting.
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town, be and hereby are given
to the Hon. Tho8. Crafts Esquire, for his good Services, as
moderator of this meeting.
Then the meeting was dissolved.
[11.] At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned in
public Town meeting, assembled at Faneuil Hall, on Monday the
10th day of October, Anno Domini 1796. 10 o'Clock. A. M.
Warrant for calling meeting - - read.
Hon. Thomas Crafts, Esq. chosen Moderator by a hand Vote.
The Petition of a number of Inhabitants, that the Town would
purchase certain lots of land, for the widening Vincents Alley,
was read, and on motion, the question was put, viz. "That the
Petitioners have leave to with-draw their petition." —
Passed in the affirmative, Nem. Con.
The petition for a new Street from market-square into State
Street was read, and after some debate it was
Voted, that the Petitioners have leave to withdraw their Peti-
tion, almost universally.
Then the meeting was dissolved.
At a meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston, qualified to Vote for Representatives to
the general Court of this Commonwealth, & legally warned in
public town meeting, assembled at Faneuil Hall, the 7th day of
November, A. D. 1796. being the first Monday of the same
month, 10 O'Clock A. M.
Prayer made by Revd. Dr. Haward. —
Warrant for calling meeting — read.
4
Paragraphs of Resolve of the General Court, for the choice of
one Representative, for the first middle district, and for one
Elector of President and Vice President. — read —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1797. 7
It was then declared by the Selectmen, that the Poll would be
closed at half past one o'Clock, the bells to begin tolling at one
O'Clock
Persons Voted for, as "Representatives for the first middle
district of this Commonwealth, in the next Congress, of the
United States, viz.
Hon. James Bowdoin Esq. - - - - 986 Votes
Harrison G-. Otis Esq. .... 1408
Stephen Higginson Esq. ... 1
[13.] Persons voted for as an Elector of the President and
Vice President of the United States.
Samuel Adams Esq. - - - - 975
Tho8. Dawes Esq. 1428
John Adams Esq. ----- 1
two attested Copies of the Persons voted for as above, were
sealed up in Town-meeting, and sent to the Secretary of this
Commonwealth, by the Town Clerk, superscribed as follows, viz.
For John Avery Esq.
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Lists of Votes for a Representative, for the first middle District
of this Commonwealth, to the next Congress of the United
States, from the Town of Boston, the other of the same tenor.
Memorandum — the Returns were put into the hands of the
Secretary, by the Town Clerk.
Then the meeting was dissolved.
1797
[14.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in pub-
lic Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the
13th. Day of March Anno Domini 1797. 9 O'Clock A. M.
Prayer made by Revd. Dr. Lothrop
Warrant for calling Meeting - - read.
Sundry Laws, to be read at this Meeting were accord-
ingly - - read.
The Honble. Tho8. Dawes Esq.
was chosen Moderator by a hand Vote.
8 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Town Clerk and the same having been brought in and
counted, it appeared that
William Cooper
was chosen Town Clerk for the Year ensuing and an Oath of
Office was administred to him by Mr. Justice Vinal - - —
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for nine Selectmen and upon sorting them it appears that
the following Gentlemen were chosen. Viz*.
Ezekiel Price Esq. (excused)
Thomas Walley d°.
Deacon William Boardman d°.
Mr. Ebenezer Sever -------- d°.
Thomas Crafts Esq. d°.
Thomas Edwards Esq.
William Little
David Tilden Esq.
Russell Sturgis Esq.
The Inhabitants brought in their [15] Votes for twelve Over-
seers of the Poor ; on counting and sorting the same it appeared
that
Edward Procter Esq.
John Sweetser Esq.
Jonathan L. Austin
Mr. Edward Edes
Henry Hill Esq.
Mr. William Smith
William Phillips Esq.
Stephen Gorham Esq.
Mr. Oliver Brewster
Arnold Wells Junr.
Dr. Retford Webster
Mr. Thomas Perkins
were chosen Overseers of the Poor for the Year ensuing.
Mr. Samuel Clap chosen Town Treasurer for the Year ensuing
by a unanimous Vote.
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for 16 Fire Wards, and
the same having been sorted & counted it appeared that
John Winthrop Esq.
Thomas Melville Esq.
Jabez Hatch Esq.
Joseph Russell Esq.
Mr. Edward Edes
Amasa Davis Esq.
Samuel Parkman
Mr. Russell Sturgis
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1797. 9
Henry Jackson Esq.
Cap1. Mungo Mackey (excused)
William Scollay Esq.
William Little Esq.
[16.] Mr. James Tisdale
Joseph May Esq.
Cap1. Robert Gardner
Majr. Andrew Cunningham
John May Esq.
Deacon William Brown
Cap1. Nathaniel Fellows
Samuel Bradford Esq.
Mr. William 8haw
Mr. Joseph Mead
Thomas H. Perkins Esq.
John Winslow Esq.
were chosen Fire- Wards for the Year ensuing.
Mr. Samuel Clap
chosen Town Treasurer for the Year ensuing unanimously and
was sworn to the faithful discharge of his Office by the Town
Clerk.
Votes for a Treasurer of the County of Suffolk brought in,
and counted by the Moderator and Town Clerk, when it appeared
that the whole number was 222, of which 216 — were for Mr. John
Demming 4 for Mr. Clap, and 1 for William Cooper all discreet,
suitable Persons being Freeholders and resident in said County.
Sealed and delivered to Mr. Price Clerk of Sessions.
Voted, that in addition to the Selectmen 12 Persons shall now
be chosen as a School Committee and the Votes being brought in
counted & sorted it appeared that the following Gentlemen were
chosen
Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq.
Revd. Samuel West
Dr. Thomas Welsh
[17.] Revd. Samuel Stillman D. D. excused.
Honble. George Richd. Minot Esq.
Dr. David Townsend
Dr. Aaron Dexter
Mr. William Smith
Dr. William Spooner
Mr. Arnold Wells Junr.
Mr. Joseph Crocker
Edward Gray Esq.
Voted, that the above named Gentlemen who conjunctly are
termed the School Committee, be and hereby are directed to carry
THE NEW SYSTEM OF EDUCATION which has been adopted by the
Town into operation and said Committee are also authorized and
10 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
impowered conjunctly to manage and regulate the Officers and
Government of the Schools, & in future to exercise all the
Powers relating to the Schools & Schoolmasters, which the
Selectmen or such Committees are authorized by the Laws of the
Commonwealth, or the Votes of the Town to exercise any
former Votes of the Town notwithstanding
Messrs. Shubael Hews
Benjamin Homans
Thomas Stevenson
Amos Lewis
Jirah Holbrook
Samuel White
William Bosson
Enoch May
Abraham Tuckerman
John Kennedy
Samuel Dow
Noah Butts
were chosen Constables for the Year ensuing.
[18.] Voted, that the Assessors be, and hereby are directed
to sit for such abatements of Taxes as they shall Judge reasonable,
two Days in each Week after the delivery of the Tax Books to
the Collectors for the space of Six Weeks & no longer, saving
they be allowed to sit the last Week in February, Lords Days
excepted, for the abatement of the Taxes of such Persons as had
not the opportunity of applying in the above limited time, by
reason of their being out of this Commonwealth or any other
unavoidable hindrance, and that the Assessors determine on the
said two Days, which is to be noted on the Tax Bills, to be
delivered the Inhabitants.
The Votes being brought in for five Assessors it appeared that
Gyles Harris Esq.
Samuel Ruggles Esq.
Mr. John R. Sigourney
Mr. Caleb Blanchard
Mr. Thomas Hitchborn
were chose Assessors for the Year ensuing.
Voted, that 5 per cent be, and hereby are allowed to the Collec-
tors of Taxes for the year ensuing, for all such sums of Money
and public Securities as they shall collect & pay into the several
Treasurers of the Sums committed to them to Collect, also that
such Collectors shall give Bond with sufficient sureties to the
satisfaction of the Selectmen for the faithful discharge of their
duty in said Office, and complying with this Vote, and that they
will not [19] receive any Premium or gratuity for discounting
any Orders, Notes, or Receipts from the Treasurer of this State or
the Treasurer of this Town.
BOSTON TOWN RECOBDS, 1797. 11
The Votes, being brought in for four Collectors of Taxes, it
appeared that
Messrs. Benjamin Henderson
Thomas Bayley
James Thompson
Benjamin Jepson
were chosen Collectors of Taxes for the Year ensuing.
The consideration of Money matters referred to May Meeting.
Voted, that Herman Brimmer 1
Joseph Russell V Esqs.
Samuel Brown )
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to Audit the Accompts
of the Town Treasurer and also the Accounts of the Selectmen &
Ovejseers of the Poor, and said Committee are also directed to
Report the Sum necessary to be raised for the sendees of the
present Year.
Messrs. Joshua Bentley
John Champney
Benjamin Page
John Cogswell
Benjamin White
Thomas Sherburne
James Blake
James Robbins
Edmund Ranger
William Clouston
[SO.] William Darracut
Nathaniel Tidmarsh
were chosen Surveyors of Boards & Shingles for the Year
ensuing.
Messrs. Joseph Loring
Thomas Barbour
George Singleton
Edward Burt
Thomas Foster
William Parkman
John Bray
Henry Purkitt,
Jonathan Cushing
James Barry
Hezekiah Hutson
Philip Hichborn
Timothy Pease
were chose Cullers of Staves and Hoops for the Year ensuing.
Mr. Abraham Adams was chosen an Informer of Deer.
12 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Messrs. Benjamin White
Moses Ayres
John Rice
were chose Fence Viewers for the Year ensuing.
[21.] Messrs. Thomas Bradley
David Hollis
Matthew Loring
Nathaniel Copeland
were chose Sealers of Leather for the Year ensuing.
Messsr. Jeffry Richardson
Isaac P. Davis
were chose Surveyors of Hemp for the Year ensuing.
Edward Tuckerman Esq.
Mr. Edward Edes
were chose Surveyors of Wheat for the Year ensuing.
•
Messrs. Daniel Bell
George Hamlin
were chose Hogreeves for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. Edward Jones
Francis Booth
George Hamlin
were chose Hay wards for the Year ensuing.
The Selectmen
were chose Surveyors of High Ways for the Year ensuing.
[21*.] Messrs. Joshua Wetherly
John Wells
were chose Assay Masters for the Year ensuing.
Mr. Edward Rumley
was chosen an Inspector of Stone Lime for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. Roger Bartlet
Joseph Doble
David Brace
were chose Cullers of dry Fish for the Year ensuing.
Thomas Walley Esq.
having declined serving in the Office of Selectman.
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given Mr. Walley for
his good and faithful services as Selectman a number of Years
past.
Thomas Crafts Esq. & Mr. Boardman having also declined
serving as Selectmen the Thanks of the Town was Voted them in
like manner.
Adjourned to 3 O. Clock P. M.
* So numbered in original.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1797. 13
3. O. Clock P. M. Town met.
Messrs. John Gushing
Thomas Neil
Samuel L. Perkins
[22.] Martin Ricker Junr.
John Somes
James Andrews
Augustus Hunt
John Osborn
James Hall
Thomas Oliver
John Hancock
Uriah Cotting
were chose Clerks of the Market for the Year ensuing.
Article in Warr*. relative to Wooden Buildings read & referred
to May Meeting.
Article in Warrant relative to Bread, read whereupon
Voted, that Thomas Walley Esq.
Charles Jarvis Esq.
Joseph Russell Esq.
be a Committee to consider this Article and the Petition & to Re-
port at the Adjournment.
Article relative to a Post being placed near Ann Street — read
— & a Committee was appointed to make Report. — but on
Motion it was reconsidered ; also on Motion
Voted, to reconsider the late Vote of the Town for placing a
Post leading from Town Dock to Ann Street.
[23.] The Petition of Asa Fuller & others for Lease of
Land on the Neck. read, also the Article in the Warrant
'• Whether measures shall be taken for the improvement of the
Lands, each side the Neck — also the Article, what measures
shall be pursued to prevent the Water overflowing the N°. West
side of the Neck ", also what measures shall be taken respecting
the Contract & Lease made by the Town of part of said Lands
with and to John May & others, whereupon
Voted, that William Eustis Esq.
Hon°. Thomas Dawes Esq.
Thomas Crafts Esq.
George Blake Esq.
Samuel Brown Esq.
Perez Morton Esq.
Joseph Russell Esq.
14 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to take the aforegoing
Petition and Articles into consideration & Report at the Adjourn-
ment.
The Petition of Henry Hill & others on various subjects,
respecting the Interest of the Town — was read — whereupon it
was
-Voted, that Honb. James Sullivan Esq.
John Coffin Jones Esq.
Henry Hill Esq.
Benjamin Austin Junr. Esq.
Judge Minot
Arnold Wells Junr.
John Lowell Jun1. Esq.
[24.] be and hereby are appointed a Committee to take the
aforegoing Petition & Articles into consideration, and to Report
thereon at the adjournment.
Messrs. Jirah Holbrook
Cap*. Joseph Gleason
William Jennings
Thomas Better
Isaac Tuckerman
were chose Sealers of Wood for the ensuing Year.
The Article in the Warrant — viz. " To consider whether any
or what measures the Town will adopt to prevent the erection of
other Rope Walks on the Ground at West Boston, where they
stood before the late Fire, was read — whereupon
Voted that Thomas Walley Esq.
Thomas Crafts Esq.
Mr. Thomas Dennie
Mr. Charles Miller
Houble. John Coffin Jones Esq.
Mr. Edward Edes
General Donnison —
be a Committee to take this matter into consideration and
Report at the Adjournment.
The matter of Lamps, as to lighting, & referred to the Gentle-
men Selectmen
[25.] The Article as to Bulls, read — whereupon
Voted that this matter be referred to the Selectmen — to pro-
ceed as usual.
Cap*. Mungo Mackay having resigned as a Fire Ward had a
Vote of Thanks for his good services while in that office.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1797. 15
Adjourned to Monday Fortnight, being the 27. Ins*. — 10
O Clock A : M :
Monday the 27. March, 10. O Clock; Met according to
Adjournment
Mr Price resigns as a Selectman, whereupon
Voted that Ezekiel Price Esq. have the Thanks of the Tpwn
for his long & faithful services as a Selectman.
Judge Minot & Dr. Townsend resigned from School Comm66.
& had the Thanks of the Town for their good services a number
of Years past.
The inhabitants having brought in their Votes for four Select-
men it appeared that
Abiel Smith Esq.
Mr. Jonathan Harris
Cap*. Joseph Howard'
Amasa Davis Esq.
were chosen.
[26.] The Votes brought in for one Fire Ward, when it
appeared that Mr. Levi Lane was chosen.
On Motion for the choise of twelve tything Men, it was Voted,
that the consideration of this matter be referred to the General
Town Meeting in May next.
The Committee on the Petition relative to the Rope Walks at
West Boston, have attended that service and beg leave to Report
that the Assurance they have from the Proprietors in addition to
the late Law "to secure the Town of Boston against Fires"
makes it unnecessary for the Town to adopt any further measures
respecting the said Rope Walks
Thomas Crafts per order.
The aforegoing Report having been read & debated — the
Question was put, Whether the same shall be accepted — passed
in the affirmative, and the Petitioners have leave to withdraw
their Petition.
Two Deeds of Mr. Allen Crocker &c. were laid before the
Town, said Deeds conveying to the Town a small piece of Land
to enlarge Vincents Lane so called, conditioned, that the Street
should be named Franklin Street, were referred to the Selectmen
they to take such measures as they shall judge necessary.
[27.] The Committee appointed to consider the Petition of
Asa Fuller & others for Lease of Lands on the Neck and whether
16 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
measures shall be taken for the improvement of the Land each
side the Neck — and also what measures shall be taken to pre-
vent the Water from overflowing the west side of the neck —
and also what measures shall be taken respecting the contract
and Lease made by the Town of part of said Land, with and to
John May & others — ask leave to Report. —
That previous to a general disposition of the very valuable prop-
erty of the Town, lying on each side of the neck, it is expedient
that an accurate map of the same should be taken, and this they
recommend, that the Selectmen should be requested to have exe-
cuted immediately, and as the Committee have not had opportu-
nity to ascertain the whole of the Land which is the property of
the Town at the present time & of course are, not ready to sug-
gest the most expedient & profitable arrangement which can be
made of it, they ask leave to sit again, And in the mean time as
it is not probable the Town can proceed to an immediate division
and appropriation of the said Lands. —
The Committee recommend that the Selectmen should be author-
ized to continue the Lease of the Land occupied by Asa Fuller
and others as a Candle Manufactory for the term of one Year
and at the expiration of this Lease, that he be authorized to
remove the Buildings erected by him and his associates on the
said Land, — And that the Selectmen be further authorized to
lease for the [28] term of one Year all other Lands belonging
to the Town and lying on both sides of the Neck on Terms most
advantageous to the Town, The Lessees to keep the fences in
good repair, to guard and cultivate the Trees which are standing,
and to supply those which are deficient, and in case the Town
shall resume its rights to any part of the Lands within the Year,
for the purpose of Streets or Building Lots a reasonable deduc-
tion to be made for the same — With respect to the overflowing
of the Water on the N°. west side, the Comm68 are of [the opinion]
that the repairing of the wall now about to be effected by John
May & others, the present Lessees, will be sufficient for the pur-
pose— And the Comm66. are of opinion that the Town should
instruct the Selectmen to guard against, the continuance of a
Slaughter-house which now stands on a Lot of the Towns Land,
on the south side of the Neck, as they conceive the same to be
injurious to the health of the Inhabitants.
William Eustis pr. Order.
The aforegoing Report having been read, and considered —
the Question was put Viz*. " Whether said Report be accepted —
Passed in the affirmative — and the Commee have leave to set
again. —
The Committee's, Report on the Petition of Henry Hill Esq.
and others. —
[29.] Town meeting by adjournment March 27. 1797.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1797. 17
The Committee to whom was referred the Petition of Henry Hill
& others, & who were also directed to Consider & report, what
measures might with propriety be pursued, in order to protect the
Inhabitants against Burglaries & Thefts, beg leave to Report.
That no late alteration has been made in the authority dele-
gated to the Selectmen to establish the assize of Bread, and they
do not find that it is necessary to adopt any measures, at present,
on that subject.
Upon considering the Article in the said Petition which relates to
the adoption of Hearses at Funerals, the Committee do not per-
ceive any advantage, which will probably result from any resolu-
tion of the Town upon that subject.
The gloomy pageantry, & Useless [parade] founded in the manners
and habits of the barbarous ages and hitherto adopted on the
meloncholly occasions, have been gradually wearing away; and
the Comm66. are convinced, that the prudent reflections, and cool
reasoning of a Republican, and enlightened Community, will
much better produce the remedy wished for, than any positive
regulations in the nature of Sumptuary Laws.
As to all other matters mentioned in said Petition, the Committee
are happy to Report, that the [3O] Laws now in being, including
the by laws of the Town, are amply sufficient if they are duly
executed, to remedy every evil complained of. —
Under this idea, and upon all the other matters referred to
them, the Committee ask leave to submit a general Report for
the Consideration of the Town. — that there is a necessity to
establish some easy, prompt, respectable, and expedient manner
of trying causes, and inflicting punishments, in order to render
the Inhabitants secure from the depredations of evilly disposed,
idle, and vagrant Persons, and in order to carry the wholesome
Laws against monopolies, forestalling, nuisances, frauds, and
cheats of every description, as well as the good and well adapted
by laws of the Town into effectual Execution. —
A very great proportion of the offences, with which the Town
are now alarmed, cannot, under the Constitution of the Common-
wealth, be tried by a Justice of the Peace. — The Court of Sessions
is holden but once in a quarter of an Year, and the Emoluments
of the Office of a Justice of the Sessions, are not such as will
induce Men to spend time in order to obtain that information in
matters of Jurisprudence, which is necessary to an effectual
energetic, execution of the Laws. —
Besides this, the mode of Prosecution is so prolix & dilatory,
that the Prosecutor is a sufferer in many instances, nearly equal
to the person prosecuted.
18 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The expence of holding Prisoners for trial, and the impractica-
bility of detaining Witnesses, are great discouragements to those
who attempt to enforce [31] the Execution of the Laws, and as
great encouragements to those who violate them, and who by
these means frequently escape with impunity.
The Committee are therefore of opinion that the Town ought
to appoint Agents to Petition the Legislature, for the purpose of
obtaining an Act, for establishing a Court for the Town of Boston,
to be holden by one able and discreet Judge, appointed according
to the Constitution by the Supreme Executive, on the first Monday
in every Month, with power to adjourn from day to day — and
that the same Court shall have cognizance of all offences, and
crimes committed within the Town of Boston to which a capital
punishment is not anaexed, — And shall have power also, to try
all offences against the By Laws of the Town, — frauds, deceits,
monopolies, forestalling, regrading [regarding?] thefts, nuisances,
and breaches of the Peace.
And also, to enquire into and execute the Laws against Vagrants,
and those against Lewdness, Bawdy houses and other disorderly
places, atfd to possess such Powers as the Legislature from time
to time, shall think proper to invest the same Court with. —
that the said Court shall have power to summon a petit Jury,
where the Constitution and Laws shall render it necessary. And
for the ease of the Citizens of the Town, that the standing grand
Jurors annually chosen shall be increased so as that the whole
number within the Town may be fifteen, and that they may be
summoned at the Town Court, and be there impannelled as a
Grand Jury, with all the Powers incident to that body, by the
Constitution & Laws.
[32.] That the Town be authorized to choose an advocate
annually, who shall have power, and whose duty it shall be to
receive Complaints, draw bills, file informations, and conduct
prosecutions, in the Court according to the Laws, in being, By
Order of the Committee.
Ja Sullivan Chairman
The aforegoing Report having been read was approved of and
accepted by the Town — also
Voted that the Committee who made this Report Viz1.
Honble. James Sullivan Esq.
Honble. John Coffin Jones Esq.
Henry Hill Esq.
Honble. Benjamin Austin Junr. Esq.
Honble. George Richd. Minot Esq.
Arnold Wells Junr.
John Lowell Junr. Esq.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1797. 19
be, and hereby are appointed the Committee or Agents to Petition
the Legislature for obtaining an Act to affect the purposes men-
tioned in said Petition.
Committee relative to Bakers Reported, & their Report was not
accepted — but on Motion it was Voted, to be the sense of the
Town that the Assize Law on Bread be repealed, and that in
future Bread be sold by weight. —
On Motion Voted, that the Selectmen be requested to insert an
Article in the Warrant for next Town Meeting to take the sense
of ye. Inhabitants on the expediency of having at all future
Elections [33] a list of all the qualified Voters belonging to the
Town.
On Motion Voted, that
All Matters unfinished at this Meeting be referred over to May
Meeting, then to be acted upon & that this Meeting be adjourned
to said Meeting.
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to the Honble.
Thomas Dawes Esq., the Moderator, for giving such dispatch to
the Business of this Meeting.
[34.] At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town of
Boston, of twenty one Years of Age & upwards, qualified as the
Constitution prescribes, and legally, in public Town Meeting
Assembled at Faneuil Hall, on Monday the 3d. Day of April,
Anno Domini 1797.
Prayer by the Revd. Doctor Thatcher D : D :
Warrant for calling Meeting - - read
Paragraph of the Constitution, or Frame of Government relative
to the choice of Govr., Lieu*. Governor, and Senators - - read.
It was then declared by the Selectmen that no Vote would be
received but such as were unfolded, and that they propose the
Poll shall be closed at half past 1. O Clock, the Votes to be
received at the Table, — and the Bells to begin tolling at 1 .
OClock.
Persons Voted for as Governor, with the number of Votes for
each Person ------- Viz1.
His Honor Moses Gill Esq. 869
Honb. Increase Sumner Esq. 1054
His Excellency Samuel Adams Esq. 1
Honbl. James Sullivan Esq. 27
Honbl. James Bowdoin Esq. 1
Honb. Elbridge Gerry Esq. 1
Honbl. Thomas Dawes Esq. 1
20 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
[35.] Persons Voted for as Lieu*. Governor with the num-
ber of Votes for each Person Viz1.
His Honor Moses Gill Esq. 1062
Honble. James Bowdoin Esq. 788
Honb. Samuel Phillips Esq. 8
Honb. Increase Sumner 63
Honbl. James Sullivan 7
Mr. John Barret 1
Houble. William Heath 6
Honb. Elbridge Gerry 1
Charles Jarvis Esq. - 1
Jonathan Mason Esq. i
Persons Voted for as Senators for the County of Suffolk with
the number of Votes for each Person Viz*.
Honbl. Thomas Dawes Esq. 1132
Honbl. Oliver Wendell Esq. 1918
Honb. Benjamin Austin Esq. 823
Honb. Theop8. Gushing Esq. 11
Honblc. James Bowdoin Esq. 808
Jonathan Mason Esq. - 1845
William Eustis Esq. _.-.._... 50
Honb. John Coffin Jones 1117
Charles Jarvis Esq. 12
John Sweetser Esq. - - 13
Arnold Wells Junr. 2
John Duggan -- - 7
John Magnor -- 9
William Little Esq. 2
John Codman Esq. 1
Samuel Brown Esq. 2
John Winthrop Esq. --_ 2
Thomas Edwards Esq. 1
[36.] Attested Copies of the Persons Voted for as Gover-
nor, Lie1. Governor, & Senators for the County of Suffolk were
committed to the Secretary of the Commonwealth & the Inclosures
sealed up in Town Meeting subscribed as follows Viz*.
For John A very Esq.
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The number of Votes for the Town of Boston for a Governor,
Lie1. Governor, & four Senators for the County of Suffolk ; Cer-
tified within and sealed up in Town Meeting.
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[37.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston duly qualified, & legally warned, in pub-
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1797. 21
lie Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the
11th. Day of May, Anno Domini 1796, 10 oClock A. M.
Prayer was made by the Revd. Mr. Elliot
Warrant for calling the Meeting - - read
That part of the Constitution or Frame of Government which
relates to the choice of Representatives - - read.
Sundry Laws to be read at said Meeting were accordingly (or
parts of them) - - read.
The Town having determined by a Vote, to choose Seven Rep-
resentatives to Represent them in the General Court of Massa-
chusetts, to be held in the State House in Boston, on the last
Wednesday of May Current, agreeable to the Constitution or
Frame of Government for Massachusetts, — the Inhabitants were
directed by the Selectmen to withdraw & bring in their Votes, for
Seven Representatives, and then it was declared by the Select-
men that no Votes would be received but such as are unfolded,
and that they propose the Poll shall be closed at half past one
OClock ; the Assessors to attend at the delivery of Votes, & the
Bells to begin tolling at 1 OClock, & continue tolling to the time
half an Hour is expired
[38.] The Votes being brought in for Seven Representatives,
the number of the same were found to be 1582, and upon sort-
ing them it appeared, that the following Seven Gentlemen had
obtained a majority of Votes Viz1.
Votes.
William Eustis Esq. 1568
William Little Esq. 1199
John Codman Esq. - 1315
Joseph Russell Esq. 1564
Samuel Cooper Esq. - 896
Mr. William Smith 939
Mr. Arnold Wells Esq. 931
The Votes, given in for such as did not obtain a Majority - Viz*.
Votes.
Perez Morton Esqr. 586
Samuel Brown Esqr. 637
Honble. James Bowdoin Esqr. ------- 645
George Blake Esqr. -- 545
The scattering Votes as follows - - - - Viz1.
Thomes Edwards Esq. 72
Russell Sturgis Esq. 8
Henry Hill Esq. 3
David Green 5
22 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
William Parsons ----- _ 5
Thomas H. Perkins _.. 3
Samuel Cobb - 5
David Tilden - 3
Joseph Head 2
Peter Smink - 2
David Townsend ----------- 3
William Brown 2
[39.] John Duggan 1
Jonathan Mason Esq. -.._ 1
John Winthrop Esq. 2
Charles Jarvis Esq. ---------- 2
Aaron Dexter Esq. - 1
Joseph May --- __._ i
Stephen Higginson Esq. 2
Stephen Gorham Esq. --------- l
Charles Vaugn -- 1
Daniel Sargeant ---- 1
William Cooper - -- 1
William Spooner - 1
R. Amory ------------- l
John Sweetser 1
Andrew Oliver -._ _ l
Deacon Boardman 1
Joseph Eaton ---- 1
Nath1. Balch 1
Thomas S. Boardman 1
Daniel Messenger ----.-.-.. l
Adjourned to 3 OClock P :M :
3 O. Clock P. M. Met according to Adjournment.
The choice of Representatives being over and declared by the
Selectmen.
The Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq.
was chosen Moderator of this Meeting, in order that the Town
may proceed on transacting the other affairs mentioned in the
Warrant — the Adjournment of March Meeting being to the same
time & place of [4O] this Meeting in order to choose Tything
Men, if the Town Judge Proper.
On Motion Voted, that when this Meeting is adjourned it shall
be to Monday next — & the business of the Adjournment pub-
lished in all the News Papers for information of the Inhabitants.
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned to Monday next,
being the 15th. Ins1. 10 OClock A. M.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1797. 23
Monday May 15 1797. 10 OClock A. M.
Met according to Adjournment.
The Votes, being brought in for two selectmen it appeared that.
Benjamin Austin Junr. Esq.
Ebenezer Hancock Esq.
were chose Selectmen for the Year ensuing.
The Votes being brought in for two School Committee Men —
it appeared that —
David Green Esq.
Rev*. John T. Kirkland
were chosen.
The choice of Tything Men referred to March Meeting.
The Article in the Warrant Viz*., To take the sense of the
Town on the expediency of having at all future Elections a List
of all the qualified [41] Voters belonging to the Town" was
read & considered whereupon
I8t. Voted, That the Assessors be, and they hereby are directed
to furnish the Select-men annually, and forty days at least before
the first Monday in April, with a list of all the rateable Polls
within the town, noting in said list, the names of all those per-
sons who have had their taxes remitted. —
2d> Voted that it shall be the duty of the Selectmen to cause
to be made out annually, and ten days at least before the first
Monday in April, and to have present at every town meeting
convened for the election of Governor, IA Governor, Senators, &
Representatives in the General Court, Representatives in Con-
gress, and Electors of President & Vice President of the United
States; a fair and Alphabetical list of all the Inhabitants of
the Town, being Citizens, who by the Constitution and Laws of
this, and the United States are qualified to Vote at such Elections.
3d. And in order to ascertain what constitutes qualified as such
to vote at such election, it is understood first, that he was born
in this, or some one of the United States and has not since
become a Citizen or Subject of any foreign State or Kingdom ;
secondly, that he has usually [resided] in this, or some one of the
United States, from the time of the declaration of American
Independence, or thirdly, that he has been naturalized according
to law.
[42.] 4th. Voted, that no Person whose name shall not be
contained in the before mentioned list shall be entitled to give in
his Vote, unless he shall first produce satisfactory evidence to the
Selectmen that he is duly qualified, and after receiving such satis-
24 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
factory evidence, the Selectmen shall receive his Vote, and enroll
his name on the list.
5th. Voted that the Town Clerk shall publish the foregoing
Votes in the public news papers of the week next preceding the
first Monday in April, until the further order of the Town.
The Article in the Warrant Viz1. " To consider what meas-
ures shall be taken with regard to watching the Town" — read
and committed for consideration to
William Eustis Esq.
Perez Morton Esq.
Col°. Revere
Col°. Winslow
to report thereon at the Adjournment.
The Petition of Aaron Jaquish & Abraham French — read &
Committed to. —
Col°. Proctor
Majr. Russell
Majr. Melvill
to consider & Report thereon at the Adjournment.
[43.] The Petition of Mr. Samuel Hunt Master of the Latin
Grammar School that an allowance may be made him for House
Rent — read & referred to the School Committee
Petition relative to out Door Auctions read & committed to —
Deacon Brown
Joseph Russell Esq.
Col°. Proctor
to consider, and Report thereon at the Adjournment.
The Article relative to fixing Sign Posts at Corner of Streets,
Lanes & with the Name of such Streets — read & referred for
consideration — to the Committee relative to Out Door Auc-
tions &
Voted, on Motion that
Dr. Nathaniel Noyes
John Andrews Esq.
Mr. Samuel Whitwell
Majr. Bradley
Col°. Revere
be a Committee to view & consider the State of the Fish Mar-
kets — & Report thereon at the Adjournment. —
The Committee to Audit the Town Treasurers Accounts have
attended that service and Report, they find the Accounts well
vouched, and right cast, that there was due to the Town the 30th.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1797.
25
April Ult°. if the out standing Debts can [44] be collected,
exclusive of $17382.74 appropriated
c. m.
to build a new alms house -------- $33230.53.9
from which deduct, Town Powder - 1041.94.5
E. Brown 41. 11. 2 Acco*.
In*. 1601.97.1 Rents 76
1719.8.3
& for Aba1. & Collectors on 96 Tax say - 5.000.
7761.2.8
which reduces the bal. to ........ 25,469.51.1
There is due from the Collector on '96 Tax ..... Viz*.
Thomas Bayley - - - - 13314.46
Benja. Henderson -
Benja. Jepson
Ja8. Thompson -
11230.16
13462.25
13048.84
$51055.71
Your Committee are of opinion the following are the necessary
Sums wanted for the Current Years expences Viz. - -
$10000 - -
1000 - -
3000 - -
2700 - -
4000 - -
666 - -
666 - -
300 - -
•33 - -
150 - -
50 - -
50 - -
275 - -
300 - -
7000 - -
6000 - -
16600 - -
for School Masters & Ushers
to repair Schools, Wood & &c
for Watchman, Candles & Coal,
Assessors pay & allowances
Lamps Oil Lighters &c
Town Clerks Salary
Town Treasurer d°.
Messenger to Selectmen
Clerks of the Market
Constables Services
Reparing Clocks
Premiums to Engine Men
Printing & Stationary
Ringing Bells
Paving Streets
Incidental Charges visit8.
Schools &
Overseers drafts
deduct what
may be recd. for
States Poor suppose
47.390
3.390 - - $44.000
[45,] Your Committee recommend that a Tax of 44.000 be
laid for the present Years Expences — they annex the Treasurers
General Account and a tryal balance of his Books, all which is
respectfully submitted by your Committee. —
Herman Brimmer
Joseph Russell Junr.
Samuel Brown
26 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The aforegoing Account having been considered — the Ques-
tion was put — Whether the same be accepted — Passed in the
Affirmative. —
Voted, that the Sum of Forty thousand Dollars be raised by a
Tax, to be assessed on the Polls & Estates of the Inhabitants of
the Town to defray the Expences of the Current Year.
Voted, that the Sum of Six hundred sixty six Dollars be
allowed, and paid unto Samuel Clap for his Services as Town
Treasurer the present Year the same to be paid him quarterly as
it shall become due & to commence the 1st. March last. —
Voted, that the Sum of Six hundred sixty six Dollars be
allowed & paid unto William Cooper for his services as Town
Clerk the present Year, the same to be paid him quarterly, as it
shall become due, and to commence the I1. March last.
Voted, that the Sum of Four hundred & thirty three Dollars
be allowed to each of the Assessors for their respective services
the present [46] Year the same to be paid them Quarterly as it
shall become due & to commence the 1st. March last
Adjourned to Friday the 26. Ins1. 10 Clock A : M : -
Friday the 26 May Ins4., Met according to Adjournment.
The Committee relative to Out Door Auctions & placing Sign
Boards at the heads of Streets Reported —
That directions at the Corners of Streets, will be public Utility,
& to reduce the multiplicity of Names, by calling a Street by one
name only, till it terminates by some boundary, will render the
direction less complex, & to make it easy to find the Store or
Dwelling of any Inhabitants it will be necessary to number the
Buildings from left to Right in relation thro each Street.
This part of the Report accepted by the Town & it was Voted,
that the consideration of what relates to Out Door Auctions —
subside (
The Committee relative to Fish Stalls, Report. That they
think it highly necessary for the safety & health of the Inhabi-
tants, that no more Fish shall be exposed for sale in the Stall
usually improved for that purpose, in Market Square, but that
the Stalls be immediately shut up (the Salmon Stall included). —
After consideration it was Voted that this Report be accepted,
also that it is the sense of the [47] Town not to provide
places for Fish Stalls. —
The Committee on Ms. Jaquish & French Petition for the
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1797. 27
restoration of the Towns part of Powder seized — read and con-
sidered, whereupon Voted, that the Petitioners have leave to
withdraw their Petition. —
The Selectmen a Committee on Mr. Samuel Hunt Petition,
Reported that his Petition would be considered, when the other
Salaries of the School Masters are to be taken up.
The Votes being brought in for four Constables, when it
appeared that.
Messrs. Henry Cromston
Samuel Gridley
Andrew Townsend
Uriah Moss,
were chosen.
Voted, that all matters unfinished be referred over to the next
General Town Meeting that shall be called. —
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to the Honble.
Thomas Dawes Esq., the Moderator for his good Services in the
dispatch given the business of this Meeting. —
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
[48.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston, duly qualified & legally warned, in public
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall, on Thursday the
fifteenth Day of June A.D. 1797., 10 O Clock A. M.
Warrant for calling Meeting — read.
Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq. chosen Moderator by a hand Vote.
The Article in the Warrant, Viz*, to consider the request of a
number of the Inhabitants that the opinion of the Town may be
taken as to the propriety and expediency of applying to the
General Court, in this present Session, requesting them to repeal
the Law entitled an Act to secure the Town of Boston against
damages by Fire, passed the last General Court" was read &
considered , — whereupon
Voted, that application be made to the General Court for the
repeal of the said Act — also
Voted, that the Selectmen be requested to inform the Repre-
sentatives of this Town of this Vote, & to desire them to use
their influence in the General Court for the repeal of said Act.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
28 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
[49.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston duly qualified, and legally warned in
public Town Meeting, at Faneuil Hall, the 4th. Day of July
A.D. 1797.
Warrant for calling Meeting — read
William Cooper was chosen Moderator.
The Commee. appointed the last Year to make choice of a Gen-
tleman to deliver an Oration on the Anniversary of Independence
Reported,
That they had made choice of John Callender Esq.
who had accepted. —
On Motion — Adjourn e'd to old Brick Meeting House 12.
O,Clock.—
AN ORATION
to commemorate, the Independence of the United States was
delivered by John Callender Esq. at the Old Brick Meeting
House.
On Motion Voted, that the Selectmen be and hereby are
appointed a Committee to wait on John Callender Esq., & in the
name of the Town to Thank him for the elegant and spirited
Oration this Day delivered by him at the request of the [5O]
Town upon the Anniversary of the Independence of the United
States of America, in which according to the Institution of the
Town, he considered the feelings, manners & principles, which
led to that great National event — and to request of him a Copy
thereof for the Press.
On Motion Voted, that the Gentlemen Selectmen be and hereby
are appointed a Committee to apply to some one learned & able
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the 4th. Day of July A. D.
1798, that Day being the Anniversary of the Independence of
the United States of America ; wherein the Orator is to consider
the feelings, manners & principles which led to this great
National event ; as well as the important & happy effects,
whether General or Domestic ; which have already, or will forever
flow, from that auspicious Epoch
Then the Meeting was dissolved —
1798.
[51.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in
public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall, on Monday the
12. Day of March, Anno Domini 1798,— 9 O.Clock A. M.—
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1798. 29
Prayer made by the Revd. John Clark D. D.
Warrant for calling Meeting - - read
Sundry Laws to be read at this Meeting were accord-
ingly - - read
The Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq. was chosen Moderator by a
Hand Vote. —
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw & bring in their
Votes for a Town Clerk, & the same having been brought in &
counted, it appeared that
William Cooper
was chosen Town Clerk for the Year ensuing, & an Oath of Office
was administered by Mr. Justice Vinal. —
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw & bring in their
Votes for 9 Selectmen, and upon sorting them it appeared that
the following Gentlemen were chosen - - Viz1.
[52.] Mr. Ebenezer Sever
Thomas Edwards Esq.
William Little Esq.
David Tilden Esq.
Mr. Russell Sturgis
Mr. Jonathan Harris
Cap1. Joseph Howard
Benjamin Austin Junr. Esq.
Ebenezer Hancock Esq.
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for 12 Overseers of the
Poor. & the same being sorted and counted, it appeared that. —
Edward Procter Esq.
John Sweetser Esq.
Jonathan L. Austin Esq.
Mr. Edward Edes
Henry Hill Esq.
William Smith Esq.
William Phillips Jnnr. Esq.
Stephen Gorham Esq.
Mr. Oliver Brewster
Arnold Wells Junr. Esq.
Dr. Redford Webster
Mr. Thomas Perkins
were chosen Overseers of the Poor for the Year ensuing. —
Mr. Samuel Clap
was chosen Town Treasurer for the Year ensuing unanimously.
30 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
[53.] The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for 24 Fire
Wards when it appeared that
John Winthrop Esq.
Thomas Melville Esq.
Jabez Hatch Esq.
Joseph Russell Esq.
Mr. Edward Edes
Amasa Davis Esq.
Samuel Park man Esq.
Mr. Russell Sturgis
Henry Jackson
William Scollay Esq.
William Little Esq.
Mr. James Tisdale
Joseph May Esq.
Cap*. Robert Gardner
John May Esq.
Deacon William Brown
Cap*. Nathaniel Fellows
Samuel Bradford Esq.
Joseph Head
Thomas H. Perkins Esq.
John Winslow Esq.
Cap1. Joseph Howard
Benjamin Joy
Mr. Stephen Codman
were chosen Fire Wards for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. John C. Howard
Daniel Sigourney
John Avery Esq.
Thomas Geyer
[54.] Benjamin Hodgdon Junr.
Ebenezer Baker
Seth Adams
Rufus Davenport
Ebenezer L. Boyd
William Whitwell
Charles Paine
Edward Blake Junr.
were chosen Clerks of the Market for the Year ensuing.
Adjourned to 3 OClock P : M.
3 OClock P. M. Town Met.
Messrs Joshua Bently
Benjamin Page
Benjamin White
James Blake
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1798. 31
John Cogswell
Edward Ranger
James Robbins
Nath1. Tidmarsh
William Darracot
William Clouston
Thomas Blake
William Ellison
were chosen Surveyors of Boards & Shingles for the Year ensu-
ing,—
Messrs. Shubael Hews
Thomas Stevenson
Amos Lewis
Jirah Holbrook
[55.] Samuel White
Enoch May
Abraham Tuckerman
Noah Butts
John French
William Low
Samuel Gridley
were chosen Constables for the Year ensuing. —
Voted, that in addition to the Selectmen 12 Persons shall now
be chosen as a School Committee & the Votes being brought in,
counted and sorted, it appeared that the following Gentlemen
were chose.
Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq.
Revd. Samuel West
Dr. Thomas Welsh
Revd. Samuel Stillman D. D.
Dr. Aaron Dexter
Mr. William Smith
Dr. William Spooner
Mr. Arnold Welles Junr
Edward Gray Esq.
David Greene Esq.
Revd. J. T. Kirkland
Rufus G. Amory Esq.
Voted, that the above named Gentlemen, who conjunctly with
the Selectmen, are termed the School Committee, be and hereby
are directed to carry, THE NEW SYSTEM OF EDUCATION which has
been adopted by the Town into operation and sd. committee
[56] are also authorized & impowered conjunctly to manage &
regulate the Officers and Government of the Schools, & in future
to exercise all the Powers relating to the Schools and School-
masters which the Selectmen or such Committees are authorized
by the Laws of the Commonwealth, or the Votes of the Town to
exercise ; any former Votes of the Town Notwithstanding
32 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Voted, that the Assessors be and hereby are directed to set for
such abatements of taxes, as they shall Judge reasonable, two
days in such Weeks after the delivery of the Tax Books to the
Collectors for the space of six Weeks & no longer, saving they
be allowed to sit the last Week in February, Lords day excepted,
for the abatement of the taxes of such Persons as had not the
opportunity of applying in the above limited time, by reason of
their being out of this Commonwealth, or any other unavoidable
hindrance, and that the Assessors determine on the said two days,
which is to be noted on the tax Bill to be delivered the Inhabi-
tants.—
Voted, that 5 P Cent be & hereby are allowed to the Collectors of
Taxes, for the Year ensuing for all such Sums of Money & public
Securities as they shall collect & pay into the several Treas-
urers of the sum committed to them [57] to collect. — Also that
such Collectors shall give bond with sufficient sureties to the sat-
isfaction of the Selectmen for the faithful discharge of their Duty
in said Office, and complying with this Vote ; and that they will
not receive any Premium or Gratuity for discounting any Orders,
Notes, or Receipts from the Treasurer of this State, or the Treas-
urer of this Town. —
Votes, for a Treasurer of the County of Suffolk brought in and '
counted by the Moderator and Town Clerk, when it appeared
that the whole number was 316., of which 311. were for Mr.
Ebenezer Sever & 5 for Mr. Samuel Clap, both discreet suitable
persons being Freeholders, & residents in said County, Sealed &
delivered Mr. Price Clerk Sessions.
Voted, that Herman Brimmer
Joseph Russell
Samuel Brown Esq.
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to Audit the Accompts
of the Town Treasurer, and also the Accompts of the Selectmen
& Overseers of the Poor, and said Committee are also directed
to report the Sum necessary to be raised for the sendees of the
present Year. —
[58.] The votes being brought in for five Assessors it
appeared that only,
Gyles Harris Esq.
Mr. John R. Sigourney
Mr. Caleb Blanchard
Mr. Ebenezer Seaver
were chose Assessors for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. Thomas Bradley
David Hollis
Matthew Loring
Tho8. Sullivan
were chose Sealers of Leather for the Year ensuing.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1798. 33
Messrs. Benjamin White
Moses Ayers
Dan1. Ingersol
were chose fence Viewers for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. Daniel Bell
George Hamlin
were chose Hogreeves for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. Edward Jones
George Hamlin
Benjamin Simpson
were chose Haywards for the Year ensuing.
[59.] Mr. Edward Rumley
was chosen an Inspector of Stone Lime for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. Jeffry Richardson
Isaac P. Davis
were chose Surveyors of Hemp for the Year ensuing.
Edward Tuckerman Esq.
Mr. Edward Edes
were chose Surveyors of Wheat for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. Roger Bartlett
Joseph Doble
Jonathan Gushing
were chose Cullers of Dry Fish for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. Joshua Weatherby
John Wells
were chose Assay Masters for the Year ensuing.
The Selectmen
were chose Surveyors of High Ways for the Year ensuing.
Voted, that all Money matters be referred to May Meeting. —
On Motion
Voted, that the Gentlemen, [6O] the Overseers of
the Poor be a Committee to confer with the Committee for Build-
ing an Alms House, & Report at the Adjournment.
Adjourned to 3. O Clock P. M.
3. O Clock P : M. Met according to Adjournment.
Messrs. Howard, Sever & Sturgis who have been rechosen as
Selectmen, wished the Town to excuse them by their respective
34 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Letters from Serving in that Office for reasons offered, but they
were desired to take their seats again, as Selectmen, at least
until the Adjournment.
Article in the "Warrant Viz*. ' ' To consider the request of the
Assessors that some further compensation may be made them for
their services tbe past Year — read, & the Question being put
passed in the negative. —
The Article in the Warrant viz " To take into Consideration a
late law of this Commonwealth entitled "An Act to prevent the
spread of Contagious Distempers," And to determine whether
they will choose & appoint a health Committee, or one person as
a health Officer, according to Law — was read whereupon
Voted, the Hon1*. Thomas Dawes Esq.
William Cooper
Dr. Joseph Warren
Dr. William Eustis
[61.] be a Committee to take up & Report of this Article at the
Adjournment.
The Article in the Warrant, viz*. Whether it shall be judged
necessary that the Selectmen shall appoint one or more suitable
persons, for measurers of Wood & Bark, brought into Town for
sale, according to a late law of this Commonwealth — was read,
as also the late law referred to, whereupon Moved, &
Voted, that the Selectmen be directed to follow the directions
of the Law mentioned in said Article. —
The Article in the Warrant viz1. To consider the request of
the Fishermen who have stands on the Dock, that they may be
assisted by the Town to obtain others more advantageous to the
Inhabitants, and themselves, than those which they now improve,"
— read, whereupon —
Voted that John Andrews Esq.
Col°. Waters
Mr. Samuel Whitwell Junr.
Col°. Bradford
• Col°. Revere
be a Committee to consider the matter, & Report at the Adjourn-
ment.
The Article in the Warrant — viz*. —
[62. ] To appoint a Committee to confer with a Committee of
the General Court respecting the disposal of the Old State House "
— was read, — whereupon
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1798. 35
Voted, that William Eustis Esq.
Josiah Waters Esq.
William Smith Esq.
be & hereby are authorized & directed to confer with said Com-
mittee of General Court & Report at the Adjournment.
Article in the Warrant viz1., To take into consideration the
expediency of selling by Auction the Stands in the Market, or
any other measures for the regulation of the same, — was read —
whereupon
Voted, that John Vinal Esq.
Col°. Winslow
Col°. Waters,
Sam1. Brown Esq.
Benjamin Austin Junr.
be a Committee to consider this matter & Report at the Adjourn-
ment.
The Article in the Warrant viz1. — To consider the request of
a number of Black Persons relative to the education of their
Children — was read — and a Motion made that this request be
committed & the Question being put — passed in the affirma-
tive.—
[63.] The Votes being brought in for four Collectors of
Taxes, it appeared that —
Messrs. Benjamin Henderson
Thomas Bayley
James Thompson
Benjamin Jepson
were chose Collectors for the Year ensuing. —
On Motion Voted, that 12 OClock AM at the Adjournment of
this Meeting be assigned for the choice of another Assessor.
The Article in the Warrant Viz*. What steps shall be taken to
prevent dead Carcasses being thrown into the Mill Pond — was
read — whereupon moved &
Voted, that Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq.
William Cooper
John Warren Esq.
William Eustis Esq.
a Committee relative to Health be a Committee to consider &
Report thereon at the Adjournment.
The Article in the Warrant viz'. To prevent the Sale of Oysters
in the Summer Months, read and committed to the above named
Commee. viz*.
36 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Honb. Thomas Dawes Esq.
William Cooper
John Warren Esq.
William Eustis Esq.
who are desired to consider, & Report thereon at the Adjourn-
ment.
[64.] Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to Wednesday
the 21st. of March Ins1., then to meet in this place 9. OClock
A.M & it was accordingly Adjourned. —
Wednesday the 21. of March 1798., 9. OClock A.M. Met
according to Adjournment.
Mr. Nathaniel Tucker
chosen a Clerk of the Market for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. Joseph Loring
Thomas Barbour
George Singleton
Edward Burt
Thomas Foster
William Parkman
John Bray
Henry Purkitt
Jonathan Gushing
James Barry
Hezekiah Hutson
Philip Hichborn
Timothy Pease
Job Wheelwright Junr.
William Fenno
were chosen Cullers of Boards & Staves for the Year ensuing.
Votes, brought in for one Constable, & no one having a ma-
jority of Votes, the choice of one is referred to May Meeting.
[65.] Committee relative to Stalls in the Market Reported,
and the same having been read, it was moved & Voted, that the
Report be recommitted & the Committee are directed to have said
Report printed, & dispersed among the Inhabitants & they are
requested to Report again at the Adjournment
The Committee appointed to take into Consideration a late law
of this Commonwealth, entitled, an Act to prevent the spreading
of contagious distempers, And whether the Town will appoint a
health Committtee or one person as a health Officer. " And what
steps shall be taken to prevent dead Carcasses, or other
Nuisances being thrown in the Mill Pond, And to prevent the
sale of Oysters in the summer Months, Ask leave to Report as
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1798. 37
their Opinion — first, that it is expedient for the town to appoint
one person as a health Officer agreeably to the Law before
mentioned, And that it be a part of his duty to prevent dead
carcasses, & other nuisances being thrown into the Mill
Pond, & to cause any to be removed on Complaint of any of
the Inhabitants, and that the Selectmen be requested to cause
enquiry to be made into the right of the Proprietors of the Mill
Pond to shut the flood Gates at West Boston, & to take suitable
measures for opening the same in order that the health of the
Inhabitants may be promoted ; Second, That it is expedient for
the Town to pass a by Law prohibiting the [66] Sale of Oysters
within the Town, in the months of June, July & August — which
is submitted
Boston March 21. 1798. Tho8. Dawes P. Order.
The aforegoing Report having been read & considered was
accepted by the Town.
On Motion Voted, that the Selectmen be the Health Committee.
The Committee relative to new Alms house, &c. Reported, &
the consideration referred to May Meeting.
The Votes being brought in for one Assessor, & the same
being sorted & counted — it appeared that
Col°. John Kurd
was chosen an Assessor for the Year ensuing
The choice of any further Selectmen referred to May Meeting.
The Committee appointed by the Town to Consider the Request
of the Fishermen have attended that Business, Consulted the
Petitioners, & Confered with the Proprietors of the Dock, who
are disposed to accommodate the Fishermen in a manner that will
be agreeable & Satisfactory to all Parties
Wednesday 218t. March 98) John Andrews P. Order
[67.] The aforegoing Report — was read and accepted by
the Town.
On Motion Voted, that this Meeting be adjourned to Wednes-
day the 4 Day of April next 10 O Clock, & it was accordingly
Adjourned.
Wednesday the 4th. April 10 O Clock P. M. Met according
to Adjournment.
The Report of the Committee relative to the Regulations of the
Market, was again read, and considered by Paragraphs, & after
amendment the same was accepted by the Town — but on
Motion
38 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Voted, that said Report be again referred to said Committee,
to give it such correction, & to make such additions as they may
Judge necessary, & to Report to the Town at May Meeting.
The late Vote relative to Fish Market was reconsidered, &
said Matter referred to same Committee
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given the Honble.
Thomas Dawes Esq., the Moderator for the dispatch given to the
business of this Meeting.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
[68.] At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town of
Boston, of twenty one Years of Age & upwards, qualified as the
Constitution prescribes, & legally warned in public Town Meet-
ing Assembled, at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 2d Day of April,
Anno Domini 1798.
Prayer by the Revd. Mr. Baldwin.
Warrant for calling Meeting - - read
Paragraph of the Constitution or Frame of G-overment relative
to the choice of Governor, Lieu*. Governor & Senators - read
It was then declared by the Selectmen that no Vote would be
received but such as are unfolded, & that they purpose the Poll
shall be closed at half past one O Clock— The Votes to be received
at the Table, — and the Bell to begin tolling at 1. OClock. —
Persons VOTED for as GOVERNOR with the number of Votes for
each Person. Viz*.
Votes
His Excellency Increase Sumner - - - - - 1461
Honble. James Sullivan Esq. 103
Honble. Edward H. Robins Esq. 2
His Honor Moses Gill Esq. 2
[69.] Honble. William Heath Esq. 6
Honble. Benjamin Austin Junr. Esq. - - - - 1
Mr. Asa Penniman 3
Hon1*5. Benjamin Austin Esq. 2
Hon1*. James Bowdoin Esq. - 1
Persons voted for as Lie*. Governor with the number of votes
for each Person. .--. Viz1.
His Honor Moses Gill Esq. 1557
Honbe. William Heath Esq. 8
Honbe. James Bowdoin Esq. 9
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1798. 39
Hon1*. Samuel Phillips Esq. 1
Hon1*. Stephen Higginson Esq. ------ i
Jonh Vinal Esq. -.._. 3
John S. Lilley 1
Persons VOTED for as SENATORS for the County of Suffolk, with
the number of Votes for each Person.
Votes
Hon1*. Thomas Dawes Esq. 1 280
Hon1*. Oliver Wendell Esq. 1574
. Benjamin Austin Jun. Esq. 10
. John Coffin Jones Esq. 1283
. James Bowdoin Esq. 298
Hon1*. Thomas Davis Esq. 1279
William Tudor Esq. -----_.__ 299
John Codman Esq. - .._ 282
William Eustis Esq. --- 9
[7O.] Charles Jarvis Esq. 3
Michael Moses Hayes 1
Perez Morton Esq. 1
Mr. Russell Sturgis --_ 1
John Sweetser Esq. --------- 2
Mr. John Wear 1
Mr. Andrew Townsend -----.._ 2
Mr. Amos Lewis ---------- 3
Mr. John Peters 2
Harrison Gray Otis Esq. --- 1
Dr. Black Peter 1
Capt. Nickerson 2
P. A. Serreson -------._.- i
Thomas Edwards Esq. 1
Edward Blake 2
Hon1*. James Sullivan Esq. 2
Attested Copies of the Persons VOTED for as GOVERNOR, Lieu*.
GOVERNOR, & SENATORS, for the County of Suffolk were com-
mitted to the Secretary of the Commonwealth & the Inclosure
sealed up in Town Meeting subscribed as follows - - - Viz*.
For John Avery Esq.
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
The number of Votes for the Town of Boston for a Governor
Lieu*. Governor & four Senators for the County of Suffolk Certi-
fied within, and sealed up in Town Meeting.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
[71.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston, duly qualifyed & legally warned in
public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Tuesday the
15th. Day of May, A.D. 1798, 10 OClock A.M.
40 CITY DOCUMENT Xo. 115.
Prayer was made by the Revd. Dr. Parker
Warrant for calling the Meeting - - read
That part of the Constitution or Frame of Government which
relates to the choice of Representatives read. —
The Town having determined by a Vote to choose Seven Rep-
resentatives to Represent them in the General Court of Massa-
chusetts, to be held in the State House in Boston, on the last
Wednesday of May Current, agreeably to the Constitution or
Frame of Government for Massachusetts, the Inhabitants were
directed by the Selectmen to withdraw and bring in their Votes
for Seven Representatives, and then it was declared by the
Selectmen that no Votes would be received but such as are
unfolded, and that they purpose the Poll shall be closed at £ past
1 . OClock, the Assessors to attend at the delivery of Votes, &
the Bell to begin tolling to the time of % an Hour is Expired.
The Votes being brought in for Seven Representatives, the
number of the same were found to be [72] 1296. and upon
sorting them it appeared, that the following Seven Gentlemen
had obtained a Majority of Votes. Viz*.
Votes
John Codman Esq. 974
Joseph Russell Esq. 1058
Arnold Wells Junr. 1048
William Smith Esq. 1027
Mr. Samuel Cobb 875
John Lowell Junr. Esq. 896
Joseph May Esq. 840
The Votes given in for such as did not obtain a Majority Viz*.
William Eustis Esq. 498
Stephen Gorham Esq. --------- 77
Samuel Parkman Esq. 77
Rufus Amory 45
William Tudor 25
Deacon J Magner 12
William Spooner 30
Majr. Benjamin Russell -13
John Duggan 12
William Little Esq. 10
Honble. Stephen Higginson Esq. 13
Herman Brimmer 9
& 83 other Scattering Votes.
The choice of Representatives being over & declared by the
Selectmen.
The Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq.
was chosen Moderator of this Meeting in order that the Town
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1798. 41
may proceed in transacting the [73] other affairs mentioned in
the Warrant.
Adjourned to 3 OClock P.M.
3 O Clock P :M : Met according to Adjournment.
Committee on Town Treasurers Account asked leave to Report
at the Adjournment.
Mr. Sever, Mr. Howard, & Mr. Sturgis having resigned as
Selectmen had the Thanks of the Town for their good services
while in that office.
Article in the Warrant viz1, to consider the Request of the
Aqueduct Corporation that the Town will grant or Lease a Piece
of Ground Forty Feet square on Fort Hill for a Reservoir for the
Aqueduct, and to act respecting the same as may appear to be
proper — and also whether the Town will allow the said Corpora-
tion the Privilege of securing & boring their Logs on the Beach
at the foot of the Common, was read ----- whereupon
Voted, that Judge Wendell
Josiah Quincy Esq.
Joseph Russell Esq.
Judge Minot
Dr. Eustis
be a Committee to take this matter into consideration and Report
at the Adjournment.
[74.] Mr. Andrew Townsend
was chosen a Constable for the Year ensuing.
Committee relative to Market Reported, & the Question being
put whether the same shall be accepted. Passed in the Affirma-
tive, & the Committee are desired to Report from time to time,
any further regulation they may judge needful for the benefit of
the Inhabitants - ... which Report is as follows Viz1. —
The Committee appointed to consider the Expediency of setting
the Stalls in the Market and what other measures are proper to
be taken for regulating the same have attended that Service, and
after mature consideration Report the following which is respect-
fully submitted.
The Convenience and Utility of Public Markets in populous
Towns are so evident from the Establishment of them in the sev-
eral large Cities and Towns, not only in Europe, but in the
United States, that the Committee consider it needless to point
out the Advantages resulting therefrom : as the Citizens by having
a particular place appropriated for the purpose of purchasing
42 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Provisions are enabled more readily to furnish themselves with
necessary supplies, daily wanted in [75] their Families — A
Public Market thus established depends for its Utility & Con-
venience on such prudential measures as may be adopted for the
regulation of the same. The Committee therefore propose the
following Plan for the Consideration of the Town.
1st. The Stalls and other Stands within the Market Square be let
by the the Selectmen for such Periods as they may judge proper,
and at such prices as to them may seem meet ; The Rents to be
collected daily, Weekly or otherwise, as the Selectmen may order
by the Clerk of the Market, who shall be sworn to the faithful
discharge of his Duty, and shall every Month account with the
Selectmen for the Monies he receives, deducting therefrom his
Allowance for services, And in order that the Persons occupying
the Stalls may be known to the Citizens, the Names of the Occu-
pier shall be painted at full length in a conspicuous place on
their stall — The person thus hireing shall not transfer the use
of his stall to any person unless the selectmen approve thereof
and but one stall be let to one person and [when] two or more
persons are in partnership together there shall be but one stall im-
proved by them. That every person improving a stall shall fur-
nish himself with scales and weights to weigh every commodity
which is commonly sold by weight and if any person [76] should
be found to weigh with steelyards after the first day of June he
or they shall be deprived of his or their stall or stand.
No Inhabitants of the Town of Boston [shall] be permitted to
occupy any stall or stand within the Market Square unless he
shall contract in Writing with a penality annexed, with the Clerk
of the Market by Permission of the Selectmen, that he nor any
acting under him shall not expose for sale at such place anv
Articles except Beef, Pork, Mutton or Veal. —
When any Person holding or occupying a Stall or Stand if found
guilty of buying any Articles of Provisions within the Town of
Boston to sell again at an advanced Price within the Market
Square or in the Town he shall no longer be permitted to hold any
Stand or Stall within the Square.
The Streets within the vicinity of the Market & leading to
said Market shall not be encumbred with Stalls, Wheelbarrows
Benches or any other vehicle for the accommodation of selling
any Article or Articles whatever, whether Provisions Bread or
any kind of Merchandize : and the Officer or Officers of Police
shall cause to be removed all such obstructions should any occur
as speedily as possible.
Sellers of Meat Vegetables Fruit or any Article [77] of Pro-
visions, shall not be permitted to continue in the Market Square
for the Sale of any Article whatever after two of the Clock in the
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1798. 43
Afternoon except on Saturdays the Days preceding Fast, Thanks-
givings and Christmas — This Regulation is recommended that the
Clerk of the Market may have time to cleanse the same of all
those Substances which have a Tendency from Putridity to injure
the Health of the Citizens.
6th. Wheelbarrows of any kind Hand Sleds or Hand Carts or
any other Vehicle of Conveyance shall not be suffered to stand in
Market Square for the sale of any Article except such as are
excepted in the 5 Paragraph.
7th. The Horses & Carts shall not be permitted to stand in Mar-
ket Square for more than half an Hour after their Arrival in said
Square.
8th. The Clerk of the Market by Order of the Selectmen shall
put the Laws in execution against Persons who may presume to
expose for sale small Meats, of any kind blowed or wounded and
if experience shall render it necessary, the Officer or Officers of
Police shall aid him in the same.
9th. The Committee recomend that a Bell be provided and erected
in the Cupola of Faneuil Hall to announce the oppeniug and clos-
ing the Market House which Bell shall strike at six of the Clock
[78] in the Morning from the first of May to the first of
October ; and at eight of the Clock in the Morning from the first
of October to the first of May — Those Hours to be fixed for
opening the Market House. At two of the Clock P.M. through
out the Year the Bell shall announce the closeing of the Market. —
The Market House shall instantly be shut and within half an
Hour after the Market place shall be cleared of every Article of
whatever description or Name.
And any Person presuming to tarry after the time specifyed in
the fifth Article for the sale of any Article therein mentioned shall
not afterwards be admitted to hold a Stall or Stand in the Mar-
ket Place.
The Clerk of the Market shall be ordered by the Selectmen to
put into full force the By Laws of the Town as they relate to the
Market so far as necessity requires.
The Committee recommend that the Selectmen be requested to
give instructions to the Officer or Officers of Police and the Clerk
of the Market with a Copy of the foregoing Regulation with
Orders to put the same into execution from & after the first Day
of June next. And it is recommended that the same be published
in ye. several [79] News Papers of this Town for the informa-
tion of all whom it may concern. Thus far your Committee have
44 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
proceeded, they have endeavoured to collect the Ideas of observ-
ing Citizens upon which with other enquires, and their own obser-
vation this Report is founded.
Your Committee are further of opinion that as old Customs are
not soon departed from the Business of a Reform in the Market
may be entered upon with deliberation attended with improvement
and pursued with firmness untill a Reform wished for by every
good Citizen shall be accomplished & therefore recommend that a
Committee be appointed therefore who shall Report to the Town
as Circumstances require and opportunity may permit what further
Regulations may be expedient.
John Vinal P. Order.
The aforegoing Report having been read & considered was
approved of & accepted by ye. Town, and the Committee are
desired to Report from time to time any further Regulations
they may Judge needful for the benefit of ye. Inhabitants.
The Committee Report relative to Fish Stands.
The Committee appointed by the Town to Consider what meas-
ures can be adopted to accommodate [8O] the Fishermen with
Stands for the disposal of their Fish agreeable to their Petition,
have attended the Business and the only Eligible situation they
can find is at Pitts Wharf e over the Creek which they are sorry
to find does not meet with the Approbation of the Petitioners
They therefore must submit the business to the Town whether
they will afford them a Stand in their Old situation near the
Vegetable Stall which your Committee cannot by any means
recommend.
Boston May. 1798. Jn°. Andrews
Paul Revere.
The aforegoing Report having been read and considered was
accepted by the Town.
The Inhabitants having brought in their Votes for three
Selectmen it appeared that
Mr. William Porter
William Sherburne
Ebenr. Oliver
were chosen.
Article in the Warrant Viz1. To consider what measures shall
be taken relative to the Towns Land on the neck was read —
whereupon
Voted, that the Selectmen lease the Lands as usual. —
[81.] Adjourned to Tuesday next being 22d. Ins*. 10
OClock & the Selectmen were previously desired to advertize in
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1798. 45
the Public Prints that all Money matters would then be taken
up and acted upon by the Town.
Tuesday May 22d. 1798 10 OClock Met according to Adjourn-
ment.
The Committee appointed to consider and report upon the re-
quest of the Aqueduct Corporation beg leave to Report that they
have attended their Duty in that respect and are of Opinion that
the said Corporation be allowed the Privilege of securing by
booming their logs on such part of the beach at the foot of the
Common and for such a Period of time as the Selectmen in their
discretion may appoint. But that it is not expedient to suffer
any building to be erected or continued on the Towns Land there
lying for boring Logs or for any other purpose whatsoever.
The Committee further beg leave to Report that as it respects
a grant or Lease of a piece of Land Forty feet square on Fort
Hill for a Reservoir they have examined the same and are of
opinion that the Selectmen of this Town are the best Judges of
the Expediency and if expedient of the manner conditions &
limits of such Grantor Lease [82] and that the same be referred
to them with full Powers to decide & act accordingly.
P. Order. Josiah Quincy Chm
The aforegoing Report having been read & considered was
accepted by the Town also
Voted, that tho it is inexpedient that the building erected by
the Aqueduct Corporation at the bottom of the Common for
boring their Logs should be continued, Yet as the same is now
erected and it will occasion great delay in their Works to erect
another this season, the Selectmen are impowered to allow the
same to be continued for a term not exceeding one Year from
this Day upon the said Corporation giving bond to the Town
Treasurer to the Acceptance of the Selectmen in the Sum of five
thousand Dollars conditioned to remove the same building at the
end of said Term or sooner if the Selectmen shall order the same
to be removed and to pay such Sum for the privilege as shall be
Stipulated in said Condition to take such measures as shall be
contained in the same condition to save the Interest of the Town
harmless from any injury in consequence of improving the same
building for the purpose for which it is erected.
Mr. Oliver having excused himself [83] as a Selectman the
Votes being brought in for one Selectman it appeared that
Mr. John Tileston
was chose Selectman for the Year ensuing.
On Representation of the Assessors praying that the Town
46 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
would grant them the same for their servises for the Year 1797.
as they did the proceeding Year 1796.
Voted, that an allowance of One hundred Dollars be made each
of them for the Year 1797 on Account of the rise of Provisions.
The Committee Appointed to Audit the Town Treasurer
Account have Attended that service & Report they find the
Accounts well Vouched and right cast. That there was due to
the Town the 30th. April Ult°. by the Books Exclusive of the
Money appropriated for building a new Alms House $17382.74
say $34211 . 67 . 6
From which deduct Towns )
Powder \ 1041 - 94
E. Breens debt - - - . - 41-11-2
Interest Account - - - - 2672- 6-1
Rents outstandg. ---- 13-33
Abatements on 1797. Tax - 2000
Collectors Premium - - - 3600
9368 - 44 - 8
Which reduces the Balance to $24843 - 22 - 8
[84.] There is due from the Collectors on 1797. Tax Viz.
Thomas Bayley 10338 . 30
Benf. Henderson - - - - 8342 . 58
Benf. Jepson 9877 . 77
James Thompson - - - - 9668 . 24
CentB.
$38226 .89
The following Sums are necessary for the Current Years
Expences Viz.
School Masters & Ushers $10000
repairing Schools & Wood ------- 1000
Watchman Coals Candles &c. 3000
Assessors Pay &c. - 2700
Lamps Oil light*. &c. 4000
Town Clerk Salary 666
Treasurers D°. 666
Messenger to Selectmen 300
Constables Services 150
Clerks of Market 33
Repairing Clocks ----- 50
Prem. to Engine mend8. 2 new Engine - - - 750
Printing 250
Stationery ------------ 69
ringing Bells 300
Paving Streets - - - - 7000
BOSTON Towx RECORDS, 1798. 47
Incidental Charges visit8. Schools - - - - 1000
Overseers Drafts 16000
From this deduct what may be )
recd. from the State for the States Poor j -
$44000
[85.] Your Committee are of Opinion that a Tax of $50000
ought to be laid to defray the expences of the Current Year They
annex Gen1. Account of the Treasurer and a tryal Ballance of
his Books — Your Committee recommend that the Town desire
the Selectmen to procure a Book and order the Town Clerk to
keep Accounts agreeable to the Appropriations as above and in
their Drafts on the Treasurer it will be proper to designate the
Appropriation ; they also Recommend that the Treasurer be
ordered to Open as many Accounts in his Books as will conform
to said Appropriations & charge each agreeable to the Selectmen's
Drafts — so that in future the Town may know which & how
much they fall short of the Sums granted.
Your Committee see no prospect of the old Notes being paid off
owing to the backwardness of paying taxes, there is now due
$38226 — of the Forty Thousand Assessed for 1797. which will
only come in to pay the Selectmen & Overseers Drafts for 1798
therefore the Town is one Year in Arrears and unless the
Inhabitants can be induced (by a Premium or otherways) to
make prompt payment of their next Tax the Notes must remain
unpaid they Amount to $11506 exclusive of Interest, All of
which is respectfully submitted
Herman Brimmer '
Joseph Russell Junr
Samuel Brown
[86.] The aforegoing Account having been considered — the
Question was put Whether the Report be accepted — Passed in
the Affirmative.
Voted, that the Sum of Fifty Thousand Dollars, be raised by a
Tax to be Assessed on the Polls & Estates of the Inhabitants of
the Town to defray the Expences of the Current Year.
Voted, that the Sum of Six hundred sixty six Dollars be allowed
and paid unto Samuel Clap for his services as Town Treasurer
the present Year the same to be paid him quarterly as it shall
become due & to commence the 1st March last.
Voted, that the Sum of Six hundred sixty six Dollars be allowed
and paid unto William Cooper for his services as Town Clerk the
48 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
present Year the same to be paid him Quarterly as it shall become
due & to commence from the 1st March last.
Voted that the Sum of Four hundred thirty three Dollars be
allowed to each of the Assessors for their respective services the
present Year the same to be paid them quarterly as it shall become
due & to commence the 1st March last.
Voted that the Sum of One hundred Dollars be allowed to each
of the Assessors the present Year on Account of the rise of
Provisions.
[87.] The Overseers of the Poor who were appointed by the
Town at their Meeting on the 12 ins* to confer with the Committee
for building an Alms House & have attended to that service and
ask leave to Report the following Statement.
They find the Sales of Eleven Lots of Land which were sold by
the Town for the above mentioned purpose to amount to Fifty
Eight Thousand Eight hundred Dollars — The Interest on public
Stock purchased and Rent received by the Committee two thousand
five hundred & fifty one Dollars & twenty eight cents deducting
from these Sums twenty three thousand eight hundred & fifty
Dollars which are not payable agreeably to the terms of sale untill
possession is given to the Purchasers, there remains Thirty seven
thousand five hundred & one Dollars & twenty eight Cents to the
Credit of the Town — Of this Sum the Committee have appro-
priated as follows. — for the Purchase of Land of Messrs. Bourn.
Woodward & Phillips on which to erect the buildings ; eleven
thousand one hundred & ninety nine Dollars and ninety nine Cents.
— for Lumber and the expences thereon seven thousand two hun-
dred and twenty seven Dollars and twenty four Cents ; for the pur-
chase of twenty thousand Dollars in the 5£ P Cent funds sixteen
thousand Dollars five Cents, the balance, which is three thousand
& seventy four dollars, & five cents, now rests in the hands of the
Town Treasurer subject [88] to the order of the Town — The
Overseers wou'd observe the numbers now in the Alms House
exceed any former Years and that the buildings are in a most
ruinous state and from the imperfections of the present accom-
odations it has not been in their power to enforce agreeably to
their wishes that Order and regularity so necessary in such insti-
tutions ; under all these disadvantages they are however happy to
say, that by the strictest Attention to Diet & Cleanliness, they
have been enabled to preserve among the Inhabitants of the House
for several Years past as great a degree of Health as has been
enjoyed in proportion to numbers in any part of the Town. To
complete the buildings necessary for the accomodation of even
the present numbers (without calculating for the probable in-
crease) on a scale that will be advantageous & honorable to the
Town, it must be apparent to every one who will take the trouble
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1798. 49
to calculate, will require with all the economy that can be exer-
cised, a considerable additions of Funds beyond what are now at
the command of the Committee, and the Overseers cannot refrain
from observing that in their opinion the Committee have consulted
the true Interest of the Town in suspending the execution of their
Plans while labour & Materials continued so extravagantly high
as even at the present time a very important saving has been
[89] realized thereby. Altho the Overseers have been for sev-
eral Years exceedingly anxious, that a more commodious House
should be provided, and have with pleasure anticipated that the
accommodations contemplated by the Town for our indigent and
enfeebled citizens wou'd probably be in great forwardness in the
course of the ensuing season Yet at the same time they consider
it wou'd be highly injurious to the Interest of the Town to com-
mence the work untill there is a certainty of being able without
delay to progress so far as to render it habitable, and as the funds
now provided are insufficient for that purpose they therefore sub-
mit to the superior wisdom & consideration of the Town to deter-
mine whether it is most expedient to endeavor to struggle another
Year with the difficulties they now experience or to make a further
appropriation of Monies & enjoyn the Committee to carry their
Plans into effect without loss of time. — The Overseers wou'd only
add that the numbers now in the Alms House only are 352. and
have been regularly increasing it is therefore their Opinion that
the new House ought to be calculated to contain 500 at least.
P. Order
Edward Proctor Chmr.
The aforegoing Report having been read & considered, was ap-
proved of and accepted by the Town.
[9O.] Voted, that all matters unfinished be referred to the
next General Town Meeting that shall be called.
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to the Honble.
Thomas Dawes Esq. the Moderator for his good services in the
dispatch given the business of this Meeting.
Then the meeting was dissolved. —
[91.] At a meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston duly qualified & legally warned in Public
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 4th.
Day of July A :D 1798.
Warrant for calling the Meeting - - read.
William Cooper was chosen Moderator.
50 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The Committee appointed the last Year to make choice of a
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the Anniversary of Indepen-
dence.
Reported —
That they had made choice of Josiah Quincy Esq.
who has accepted.
On Motion Adjourned to the Old South Church — when agree-
able to the information of the Chairman of the Selectmen.
AN ORATION
to commemorate the Independence of the United States was de-
livered by Josiah Quincy Esq. at Old South Church.
On motion Voted that the Selectmen [92] be and hereby are
appointed a Committee to wait on Josiah Quincy Esq. & in the
name of the Town to Thank him for the elegant & spirited Oration
this day delivered by him at the request of ye. Town upon the An-
niversary of the Independence of the United States of America,
in which according to the Institution of the Town, he considered
the feelings, manners & principles which led to that great National
event — and to request of him a Copy thereof for the Press. —
On Motion VOTED that the Gentlemen Selectmen be & hereby
are appointed a Committee to apply to some one able & learned
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the 4 July AD. 1799. that
Day being the Anniversary of the Independence of the United
States of America ; wherein the Orator is to consider the feelings
manners and principles which led to this great National event as
well as the important & happy effects whether general or Domes-
tic which have already or will for ever flow, from that auspicious
Epoch.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
[93.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston duly qualified & legally Warned in public
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 5 Day
of November Anno Domini 1798. 10 OClock A :M —
Prayer made by the Revd. Dr. Walter.
Warrant for calling Meeting - - read.
Paragraph of a Resolve of the General Court for the choice of
one Representative for the first Middle District - - read.
It was then declared by the Selectmen that the Poll would be
closed at £ past 1 . OClock the Bells to begin tolling at 1 . O Clock.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1798. 51
Persons Voted, for as a Representative of the 1st. Middle
District of this Commonwealth in the next Congress of the
United States Viz.
Votes.
Honle. Harrison Gray Otis 1726
Honle. William Heath Esq. 936
William Eustis Esq. 3
A declaration was made by the Selectmen of the Persons Voted
for as Representatives of the 1st Middle District. —
[94.] Attested Copies of the Persons Voted for as above
were sealed up in Town Meeting & delivered to the Sheriff of this
Commonwealth by the Town Clerk superscribed as follows Viz.
For John A very Esq.
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The Town made choice of
The Hon1*. Thomas Dawes Esq.
as Moderator of the Meeting to transact the matters mentioned in
the Warrant.
Adjourned to to morrow Morning 10. OClock.
Tuesday November 6. 10. OClock AM. Met according to
Adjournment. —
The Article relative to the Old State House was read, & com-
mitted for consideration to. —
William Eustis Esq.
Samuel Brown
Judge Minot
William Smith
Thomas Edwards Esq.
to Report at the Adjournment.
[95.] The Petition of William Powell Esqr. & others rela-
tive to cleansing & filling up Docks & was read & committed for
consideration to. —
William Powell Esq.
Stephen Grorham
William Thompson
Samuel Parkman
John Codman
John Andrews
Josiah Quincy
John Coffin Jones
Mr. James Perkins
Aaron Dexter
William Eustis Esq.
to Report thereon at the Adjournment.
52 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The Petition of Amasa Davis Esq. Quarter Master General
relative to Ground for erecting a State Store — read, & commit-
ted for consideration to
Hon1*. Thomas Dawes Esq.
Thomas Edwards Esq.
John Codtnan Esq.
to Report thereon at the Adjournment of this Meeting.
The Article in the Warrant relative to Trunks was read —
whereupon —
Voted that William Smith
[96.] Nathan Bond
Russell Sturgis Esqrs.
be a Committee to consider this matter & Report thereon at the
Adjournment.
•
The Article in the Warrant viz*. — Whether the Town will
dispense with the lighting the Lamps the ensuing Season — read —
whereupon
Voted, that John Codman Esq.
Ebenezer Hancock Esq.
William Sherburn Esq
be a Committee to consider this Article & Report thereon at the
Adjournment.
The Article in the Warrant relative to applying to the General
Court for Restrictions on Aqueduct Corporation " was read, &
committed for consideration to. —
William Tudor
Amasa Davis -v
Russell Sturgis
Joseph May - - - Esquires
Mr. Henderson Inches
to Report thereon at the Adjournment.
Voted, that the Selectmen publish the Names of the several
Committees in such papers as they Judge proper for the infor-
mation of ye. Inhabitants.
Adjourned to Wednesday the 21. Novemr. Ins'. 10 OClock
A.M.—
[97.] November 21. 10 OClock A.M. Met according to
Adjournment.
The Report of the Committee relative to Trucks read & after
consideration & some amendments — the same was accepted by
the Town & is as follows Viz*.
The Committee appointed by
the Town to take into consideration the Petition of a number of
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1798. 53
the Owners of Trucks praying an alteration in the By Laws of
the Town regulating Trucks so far as it respects the length of
them — having heard the Memorialists on the subject & examined
the clause of the Law of which they complain are of opinion it is
not expedient to repeal any part of said Law, Your Committee
are of opinion that the Clause in said Law which directs that the
side of Trucks shall not exceed 16 feet in length does not. include
the Shafts but that 7 feet being allowed for the Shafts will be
sufficient making the whole length of the Trucks including the
Shafts 24 feet.—
William Smith P. Order.
On Motion Voted, that the Committee on the subject of light-
ing the Lamps do advertize for proposals for furnishing the Oil
& wicks and lighting the Lamps of the Town during the
Winter. —
The Report of the Committee relative to [98] Nuisances &c
read & referred over to the Adjournment & that in the mean time
the same be printed and disposed by the Selectmen amongst the
Inhabitants.
The Committee on Amasa Davis Esq. Quarter Master General
Petition Report. —
That it is the Opinion of the Committee that the Selectmen be
authorized & impowered to accommodate Amasa Davis Esq.
Quarter Master General with a piece of Land sufficient whereon
to erect suitable Buildings for the purpose of covering the Field
Artillery & houseing the most valuable military Stores & as
prayed for by him, near the Southerly part of the Common ; from
the Land owned by the Town fronting on Pleasant Street &
butting Easterly on Torrys Pasture so called. & that they cause the
said Quarter M. General to fence in the "whole of said Land —
And whereas one Company of Artillery is already raised, &
another now raising to compose the Legion belonging to the Town
of Boston & the Ground on which the present Gun House now
stands is otherways disposed of by the Town the Selectmen are
requested to reserve so much of said Land as will be sufficient for
the Gun house &. for the Artillery Company when they shall
become wanted and that application be made to the Governor &
Council for a Warrant on the State Treasurey for the Money
allowed by Government for such purposes & applied accordingly
The Company of Artillery now raising beeing from [99] the
North part of the Town the Selectmen are further authorized if
they shall judge it to be more for the common interest to provide
a piece of Land for the said Company whereon to erect a Gun
house at the North part of the Town, notwithstanding.
The above Report having been read and considered was ac-
cepted by the Town.
54 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The Committee appointed to consider certain resolves of the
Legislature of this Commonwealth relative to the disposition &
sale of the old State House so called, have attended to the subject
and take leave to report as follows.
First. — The Committee are satisfied that the fee of the Land on
which the House stands is in the Town of Boston and that they
have likewise erected & repaired from time to time nearly one half
of the House : from whence it results that the Town ought not to
consent to the proposal made by the Legislature to appoint agents
to sell the said House and Land thereto belonging & to place one
half of the proceeds in the Treasury of the Commonwealth.
Secondly The Committee are of opinion that selling the Premises
to any individual Person or company will be attended with con-
sequences very injurious to the Town. — The purposes for which
it might & [1OO] probably would be occupied would tend
greatly to incumber the most frequented Street in the Town which
is in its present state not of sufficient width for public accommo-
dation.— the dangers from fire would be very much increased
whether the house is appropriated for Shops, Stores, Counting
Houses or in short from any use to which the interest of individ-
uals might appropriate it. Beside the increase of real obstruc-
tions to the Streets on both sides of the House. — The Committee
are apprehensive that the Health of the inhabitants may be ex-
posed by the nuisances which a complete occupation of the House
would necessarily imply.
The Committee are of opinion that the Town ought to be the
owners of the House & Land in order that it may be appropriated
to no uses of Which they shall disapprove.
As the Honbl. Legislature appear from their resolves to be im-
pressed with an idea that one half of the premises is the property
of the Commonwealth and at the same time have consented to
refer the claim together with that of the Town & of the Counties
of Suffolk and Norfolk to the Judges of the Supreme Judicial
Court for a final decision.
The Committee conceive that the Town should agree to the
reference proposed so far as that the [1O1] Judges shall finally
determine what part of the Premises is the property of the Town.
And with respect to the other proposal of selling whether by
public or private Sale that the Town should not agree to the same
but that the Representatives of the Town be instructed to repre-
sent to the Legislature the inconveniences which would result
from a sale to individuals together with the desire of the Town
that they will purchase from the State such [part of] their pro-
portion of the same as the Judges shall award, at an appraise-
ment to be made by three impartial Men to be chosen, one by the
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1798. 55
Legislature, one by the Representatives of the Town, the third by
the two first or by lot between them if they cannot agree.
William Eustis P. Order.
The aforegoing Report having been read and considered was
accepted by the Town.
Adjourned to Wednesday December 5th. 10. OClock A :M.
Met according to Adjournment.
The Committee appointed to consider and Report on the Arti-
cle of the Warrant relative to applying to the General Court for
Restriction on the Aqueduct Corporation.
Report
[1O2.] That by the Act passed the 27. Feb^. 1795. The
Associates in the above Corporation are invested with full Powers
to open the Ground in any part of the Streets & high ways in the
Towns of Roxbury and Boston & at any time for the purpose of
sinking or repairing such Aqueduct, without any control Assent
or Restriction from the Selectmen or Surveyors of the High ways
of either of those Towns. —
These unqualified powers have been productive of some Com-
plaint already and may lead to consequential injury by subjecting
the Town to litigations with the Aqueduct Proprietors or saddling
the Inhabitants with the expence of extra repairs of their Streets.
Your Committee therefore propose the Town instruct their
Representatives in the General Court to obtain an additional one
in amendment of the same to the following effect Viz.
1st. That no pavement shall be taken up previous to the first
Day of April nor after the first Day of October in any year.
2d. That the Selectmen or the Persons whom they shall appoint
shall determine in what part of any Street the pavement shall be
removed for the purpose of sinking the pipes of the Aqueduct
and to what extent until the repair is completed.
3d. That the Selectmen or Surveyors of Highways [1O3] be
impowered to direct the repavement so as to have the same sub-
stantially & effectually done.
These Restrictions appear reasonable because when the Town
on the 7th. Feby. 1795 assented to the proprietors being incorpo-
rated it was with this express proviso. " That the Corporation
should be holden to put the Streets which should be opened in as
good repair as they were previous thereto, and that such other
56 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
guards & Restrictions should be inserted in the Act as should
effectually secure the Town from injury. —
Wm. Tudor P. Order.
The aforegoing Report having been read and considered was
accepted by the Town.
The Committee relative to Lamps Report That it will not be
expedient to dispense with the lighting the Lamps & in obedience
to a subsequent Order of the Town they have advertized for pro-
posals but no person has appeared to undertake it.
John Codman P. Order.
The aforegoing Report having been read was accepted — also
Voted, that the Selectmen be requested to light the Lamps in the
best manner they are able.
Voted, that the Representatives of the Town be requested to
use their endeavor to procure an Act or Law for empowering the
Governor with the [1O4J advice of the Council to issue an Order
for the removal of any Person from one prison to another or from
a Goal to a place of safe custody where such Person shall be con-
fined by order of Law & be labouring under a contagious discease
in such a manner as that his continuance in Goal may justly be
considered as dangerous to others.
The Committee to whom was referred the Petition of William
Powell Esq. & others " for cleansing some of the Docks & filling
up others & to remove as far as possible all Nuisances that may
arise particularly from damaged Goods, Provisions & Hides being
stored in Town & to raise Money to defray the expence thereof"
— have attended their Duty in that respect and beg leave to
Report.
That the Selectmen be requested to take measures for cleansing
the Town Dock, Ivers Dock, Olivers Dock & a Dock between the
Long Wharf & Spears Wharf in a manner as economical as
possible, and that the Selectmen be requested to have the Dock
called Olivers Dock filled up as soon as may be in such Manner
as shall be for the safety and interest of the Town for the dis-
tance of about 150 feet from the head.
That the Town direct its Representatives to make application
to the General Court, at its [1O5] next Sessions for an act to
authorize the Inhabitants and Freeholders of the respective Wards
in the Town qualified to Vote for Town Officers to meet annu-
ally in the Month of March or April at such time and in such
places as may be duly appointed within their respective Wards,
to choose one able & discreet Person an Inhabitant of the Ward
for which he shall be elected to be a Member of a Board of
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1798. 57
Health which shall consist of a member from each Ward to be
chosen by Ballot, & not otherwise : Which Board when so chosen
shall choose a President & Secretary, whose duty it shall be
annually in the Month of March or April to publish a notification
in two at least of the News Papers printed in the Town of Boston,
mentioning time and place within each Ward respectively seven
days at least before the time appointed for such Meeting for the
Inhabitants of the respective Wards to Assemble for the purpose
aforesaid. And the Members of the Board of Health for the Year
preceeding shall preside each in his Ward respectively at said
Meeting untill a Clerk shall be chosen by the Ward & no longer,
which choice shall be by Ballot. The Clerk shall then call for
the Votes receive, & count, the same in open Meeting & certify the
number to the President of the existing Board of health within 24
Hours of said Meeting under penalty of Ten dollars to be recovered
by action of debt to be brought by said President for the use of
the Town [1O6] in any Court of competent Jurisdiction. And
in case of the neglect death or refusal of the Member of the Board
of Health to preside at said Meeting the Ward may appoint a
Committee to receive the Votes for a Clerk. And on return of
the Members chosen for each Ward the President of the Board
shall notify them to meet at a certain time & place within seven
days at least after such return. At which time the Board of
Health for the Year ensuing shall be formed. —
The Duty of the Board of Health shall be to examine into
all Nuisances & other causes injurious to the health of the In-
habitants whether the same shall be caused by stagnant Waters,
drains, common sewers, slaughter Houses, Tan Yards, Fish
houses, Docks. Necessaries, putrid animal or vegetable substances
or any other cause of whatever kind, which may be injurious
to the Health of the Inhabitants as aforesaid, with power to
search all houses, stores, cellars, ships & vessells where they
may have reason to suspect any of the causes aforesaid to exist.
And if they shall meet with resistance in the execution of the
search, or the refusal to remove such Nuisances, upon applica-
tion to any Justice of the Peace within the Town, he shall
grant a Warrant directed to the Sheriff of the County of Suf-
folk, his Deputy or any Constable of the Town of Boston com-
manding him in presence of any two of said Board of health,
to cause such nuisance to be removed & to levy the expence of
said removal on the occupier [1O7] or proprietor of the House
Store, Cellar or Land in which such nuisance existed together
with a fine of twenty dollars for such refusal or resistance :
said fine to be paid over to the Town Treasurer, for the use of
the Town, And the said Board shall have authority to appoint
Scavengers & such other Officers to assist them in the execution
of their Office as they shall judge necessary for payment of whom
& all necessary expences which may arise in the execution of
their, the said Board shall be authorized to draw on the Town
58 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Treasurer, & the Accompts of said Board shall be examined by
a Committee of the Town Annually chosen for that purpose who
shall report the state of them to the Town accordingly.
That application be made to the General Court for a Law to
compel a seasonable repacking of salted meats & pickled Fish.
To prevent the bringing into town of tainted meats and fish.
& for empowering the Board of Health to have the Law carried
into full execution. Also for preventing injuries ariving from
Hides & other putrid substances which may be brought in Town.
That any Person that shall throw into any of the Docks in the
Town any putrid Meat Fish or any other putrid or offensive
substance, shall forfeit & pay for each offence, a sum not less
than one Dollar nor more than ten dollars at the discretion of the
[1O8] Court which may have cognisance of such offence All
forfitures & penalties arising from this Act to accrue to the use of
the Town & to be prosecuted in such Court or Courts & in such
form, as by the General Court may be directed & authorized.
And it shall be the duty of the Board of health to oversee &
enforce the due execution of the foregoing Laws & prosecute all
Offenders, & for all penalties & forfeitures which may accrue
under the same.
They further recommend that all Masters of Vessells arriving
shall be prohibited under a sufficient penalty for each offence from
depositing on the Wharfes the filth or sweepings of their Vessells
holds or throwing the same into any of the Docks of the Town. —
William Powell P. Order
The foregoing Report having been considered & amended in
Meeting the Question was put — Viz. — Whether the same be
accepted — Passed in the affirmative. —
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
1799.
[1O9.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabit-
ants of the Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned in
public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the
11th. Day of March Anno Domini 1799. 9. OClock. Forenoon.
Prayer was made by Revd. Dr. West.
Warrant for calling Meeting - - read.
Sundry Laws to be read at this Meeting were accordingly
read.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1799. 59
Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq. was chosen Moderator by a Hand
Vote.
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Town Clerk and the same having been brought in &
counted it appeared that
William Cooper
was chosen Town Clerk for the Year ensuing & an Oath of
Office was administered by Mr. Justice Sherburn.
[11O.] The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring
in their Votes for nine Selectmen & upon sorting them it
appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen viz.
Charles Bulfinch
David Tilden
Russell Sturgis
Joseph Howard
Ebenezer Hancock Esq.
William Porter
William Sherburne Esq.
Joseph May Esq.
Samuel Cobb
The Votes being brought in for five Assessors and counted, it
appeared that only four were chosen - - - - Viz.
John R. Sigorney
Caleb Blanchard
Ebenezer Sever Esq.
John Hurd Esq.
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw & bring in their
Votes for 12 Overseers of the Poor & upon sorting them it
appeared that
Edward Procter Esq.
[111.] John Sweetser Esq.
Johathan L. Austin Esq.
Mr. Edward Edes
Henry Hill Esq.
William Smith Esq.
William Phillips Esq.
Stephen Gorham Esq.
Mr. Oliver Brewster
Arnold Wells Junr. Esq.
Dr. Redford Webster
Mr. Thomas Perkins
were chosen Overseers of the Poor for the Year ensuing.
Adjourned to 3. O. Clock P :M. —
60 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
3. O. Clock P.M. Met according to Adjournment
On Motion Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be & hereby
are given unto Thomas Edwards Esq. William Little Esq. &
Mr. Jonathan Harris & Mr. John Tileston for their good & faith-
ful services as Selectmen a number of Years past.
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for 24. Fire Wards,
when it appeared that. —
John Winthrop Esq.
Thomas Mellvile
Jabez Hatch
Joseph Russell
Samuel Parkman Esq.
Mr. Edward Edes
Amasa Davis Esq.
Russell Sturgis
Henry Jackson
William Scollay
Joseph May Esq.
Cap*. Robert Gardner
John May Esq.
Mr. William Brown
John Winslow Esq.
Nathaniel Fellows
Samuel Bradford Esq.
Mr. Joseph Head
Thomas H. Perkins Esq.
Joseph Howard
Benjamin Joy
Stephen Codman
Andrew Cunningham Esq.
Mr. John Bray
were chosen Fire Wards for the Year ensuing.
The motion in the Forenoon of a Vote of thanks to Mr. Austin
with the other Selectmen did not obtain, a motion being made
this afternoon for a [113] reconsideration of the former vote
and that he have the thanks of the Town for his good & faithful
services as a Selectman and the question being accordingly put
Passed in the affirmative.
Voted that in addition to the Selectmen twelve Persons shall
now be chosen as a school Committee and the votes being
brought in & assorted it appeared that the following Gentlemen
were chosen viz.
Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq
Revd. Samuel West D.D.
Dr. Thomas Welsh
Revd. Samuel Stillman
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1799. 61
Dr. Aaron Dexter
Mr. William Smith
Dr. William Spooner
Mr. Arnold Welles Junr.
Edward Gray Esq.
David Green P>sq.
Revd. J T Kirkland
Rufus G Amory Esq.
Voted that the above named Gentlemen who conjunctly with
the Selectmen are termed the School Committee be and hereby
are directed to carry the new system of Education which has
been adopted by the Town into operation, and said Committee are
also authorized and empowered conjunctly to [114] manage and
regulate the Officers and government of the School and in future
to exercise all the Powers relating to the Schools and Schoolmas-
ters which the Selectmen or such committees are authorized by the
Laws of this Commonwealth or the Vote of the Town to exercise
any of the former votes of the Town notwithstanding.
Mr. Samuel Clap
was chosen Town Treasurer for the year ensuing.
Mr. Benjamin Hammatt Junr.
was chosen an Assessor for the year ensuing. •
Votes for a Treasurer for the County of Suffolk, brought in and
counted by the moderator and Town Clerk when it appeared that
the whole number was 265 — of which 248 were for Ebenezer
Sever Esq. 5 for Charles Bulflnch Esq. 4 for Mr. Samuel Clap,
4 for Mr. Benjamin Hammatt Jun. 3 for Mr. Thomas Hichbourn
1 for Giles Harris Esq. all discreet, suitable Persons, being Free-
holders and Residents in said County.
Voted that the assessors be and hereby are directed to sit for
such statements of Taxes as they shall judge reasonable two days
in such weeks after the delivery of the Tax books to the Collectors
for the space of six weeks and no longer, saving they be allowed
to sit the last Week in February (Lords days excepted) for the
[115] abatement of the Taxes of such persons as had not the
opportunity of applying in the above limited time by reason of
their being out of this Commonwealth or any other unavoidable
hindrance and that the assessors determine on the said two days
which is to be noted on the tax bill to be delivered the In-
habitants.
Voted That five per cent be and hereby are allowed to the
Collectors of Taxes for the year ensuing for all such sums of
money and public securities as they shall collect and pay in to the
several Treasurers of the sums committed to them to collect also
62 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
that such Collectors shall give bond with sufficient Sureties to the
satisfaction of the Selectmen for the faithful discharge of their
duty in said office and complying with this vote and that they will
not receive any premium or gratuity for discounting any orders
notes or receipts from the Treasurer of this State, or the
Treasurer of this Town.
The votes being brought in for four Collectors of Taxes it ap-
peared that
Messrs. Benjamin Henderson
Thomas Bailey
James Thompson
Benjamin Jepson
were chosen Collectors of Taxes for the year ensuing.
Adjourned till Tomorrow 10 °Clock Forenoon
[116.] Tuesday 10 °Clock Forenoon, met according to ad-
journment.
Messrs. Thomas Bradlee
David Hollis
Matthew Loring
Thomas Sullivan
were chosen Sealers of Leather for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Benjamin White
Moses Ayres
Daniel Ingersol
William Darricott
were chosen Fence viewers for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Edward Jones
George Hamlin
Abijah Wheelock
were chosen Hogreeves for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Edward Jones
George Hamlin
Abijah Wheelock
were chosen Haywards for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Jeffry Richardson
Isaac P. Davis
were chosen Surveyors of Hemp for the year ensuing.
Edward Tuckerman Esq.
Mr. Edward Edes
were chosen Surveyors of Wheat for the year ensuing.
[117.] Messrs. Joshua Weatherley
John Wells
were chosen assay masters for the year ensuing.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1799. 63
The Selectmen
were choseil Surveyors of the high ways for the ensuing year.
Mr. Abraham Adams
was chosen Informer of deer for the ensuing year.
Voted, That Herman Brimmer Esq.
Joseph Russell Esq.
Samuel Brown Esq.
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to audit the accounts
of the Town Treasurer and also the accounts of the Selectmen
Overseers of the Poor and Board of Health and said Commit-
tee are also directed to report the sum necessary to be raised for
the services of the present year.
Voted that the Selectmen be desired to appoint such able per-
sons for measures of wood & bark brought into Town for sale
according to a late law of this Commonwealth and that they follow
the directions of the Law therein.
Messrs. Roger Bartlett
Joseph Doble
Jonathan Gushing
were chosen Cullers of dry fish for the year ensuing.
[118.] Messrs. Joseph Loring
Thomas Barber
George Singleton
Edward Burt
Thomas Foster
John Bray
Henry Purkitt
Jonathan Gushing
James Barry
Hezekiah Hutson
Philip Hichbourne
Timothy Pease
Job Wheelwright Junr.
William Fen no
were chosen Cullers of Boards and Staves for the year ensuing.
Mr. Edward Rumley
was chosen an Inspector of stone lime for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Shubael Hewes
Thomas Stevenson
Amos Lewis
Jonah Holbrook
Samuel White
Enoch May
64 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Abraham Tuckerman
Noah Butts
John French
Samuel Gridley
Andrew Townsend
William Low
were chosen Constables for the year ensuing.
[119.] The Committee relative to filling up Olivers Dock
reported,
That agreeable to a vote of the Town at their last meeting
they have attended to their request relating to filling up Olivers
Dock so called and that in order to comply with the wishes of the
Town in this respect as far as it was in their power they had
entered into the annexed agreement with the Proprietors of
Woodwards Wharf e so called — that the Town will observe how-
ever that it is made subject to their control — the reasons of the
agreement appear in the agreement itself
Thomas Edwards
P. Order.
The aforegoing Report having been read & considered it was
Voted that the same be accepted and that the Selectmen be
requested to act thereon as they may judge proper.
Votes for 12 Surveyors of Boards and Shingles brought in
when it appeared that
Messrs. Joshua Bentley
Benjamin White
Benjamin Page
James Blake
John Cogswell
Edmund Eanger
William Clouston
William Darricott
Nathaniel Tidmarsh
William Ellison
Thomas Blake
John Stutson were chosen.
[12O.] The Representation of the Overseers of the Poor as
to the state of the almshouse and workhouse was read several
times whereupon
Voted that William Powell Esq.
General Donaldson
Herman Brimmer
William Eustis Esq.
Colonel Joseph May
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1799. 65
be a committee to take this report into consideration and any
paper relative thereto, that they confer with the overseer, of the
poor and the agents for building the new almshouse and work-
house, to enquire into the state of their funds and to devise ways
& means for procuring the monies yet wanting for erecting the
necessary buildings and that they report thereon at the adjourn-
ment and that the Inhabitants be informed in the public prints of
this adjournment and the special occasion thereof.
On motion Voted that the consideration of all money matters
be referred over to May meeting.
Voted that this meeting be adjourned to Wednesday the 27
March inst. 10 °Clock forenoon, then to meet in this place. — and
the meeting was accordingly adjourned.
Wednesday the 27 March 10 °Clock forenoon met according to
adjournment.
The Committee appointed by the Town, at their meeting on the
eleventh March instant to take in to consideration the representa-
tion of the Overseers of [121] the Poor to confer with said
overseers and with the Agents of the Town for building the new
almshouse and workhouse to enqire into the state of the funds
and to devise ways and means for procuring the monies to erect
the necessary buildings &c — have to the best of. their abilities
endeavour'd to comply with the injunctions of the Town and beg
leave to report as follows
That the condition of the buildings at present improved as an
almshouse and as a Workhouse is such that in the opinion of the
Committee it is absolutely necessary that one new building capable
of accommodating all the persons at present supported by the
Town, be immediately undertaken and completed with all con-
venient speed.
That the expence of erecting such a building on the land already
procured for that purpose, including a sea wall and other arrange-
ments of the ground will cost the Town in the opinion of the
agents between Forty and fifty thousand dollars : and the Com-
mittee are inform'd that it will require eighteen months before
the new building can be inhabited. That the Agents have in
funded stock for the above mentioned purpose to the value (in
round numbers) of sixteen thousand Dollars — in Lumber seven
thousand dollars, and Cash in the hands of the Town-Treasurer
four thousand dollars making in the whole the sum of Twenty seven
thousand dollars, leaving a deficiency of about Twenty thousand
dollars to be provided for by the Town
That there is now due to the Town about Twenty three thousand
dollars for the sales of the Lands on which [122] the almshouse
and workhouse now stands, but this sum is not to be paid until
the town shall deliver possession of these lands and buildings,
which can not be done until the intended building shall be ready
66 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
to receive the inhabitants of those that are to be delivered up to
the purchasers — It will then be necessary to provide for a defi-
ciency of about Twenty thousand dollars to complete the intended
new building before the town can realize the sum now outstanding
for the sales of the old almshouse and workhouse. And to pro-
vide for this deficiency the Committee have taken into view all
the resources of the Town within their knowledge. The lands
now belonging to the town within the Corporation are so situated
that to sell them for this purpose under existing circumstances
would be in the Opinion of the Committee to make an unwar-
rantable sacrifice. There is also a Township of lands in the
eastern parts of this Commonwealth belonging to the town of
Boston but there are so few purchasers of unimproved lands
at this time the Committee think it would bring but a very
small part of the sum required and if now sold it must be
done to great disadvantage. The Committee have also contem-
plated the subject of an immediate Tax on the Town to be
expressly appropriated to this object — but considering the mag-
nitude of the existing taxes, and the length of time requisite to
bring it into operation they have not thought it expedient to
recommend this mode of procuring the necessary supply — Thus
having taken all these resources into view, and having abandoned
them either as inexpedient, wasteful, or insufficient rthey have
turned their attention to the only remaining source [123] from
whence to draw the deficient sum necessary to complete the
building contemplated. — that is to procure it on loan on the
credit of the Town until the intended new building shall be
finished, and then to discharge the loan by the money which will
be receivable for the sale of the old almshouse and workhouse
when they shall be evacuated and delivered up to the purchasers.
It is the opinion of the Committee that the money may be obtained
on the Credit of the Town at the usual rate of interest and they
recommend that the Treasurer be authorized to borrow from time
to time such sums of money as the agents may deem necessary
for completing the buildings intended not exceeding the sum of
Twenty thousand dollars. The Agents will not want for a con-
siderable time any additional supplies to what they have already
at command and if the Treasurer shall borrow only as shall be
wanted, the growing interest will only apply to the sums last
expended and therefore will not amount to any considerable sum.
These have been the subjects considered by the Committee and
they do therefore recommend that the Agents be authorized to
proceed with all convenient expedition to erect a building compe-
tent to the object before mentioned on a plan to be approved by
the Overseers of the poor ; that they employ all the resources now
in hand arising from the sales of the Town lands for that purpose
— and that the Treasurer be authorized and directed to borrow
on the Credit of the Town such further sums as shall be necessary
to complete the said building not exceeding Twenty thousand
dollars. — In the Representation of the Overseers of the Poor
referred to the Committee, there is one other subject on which
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1799. 67
they are required to report, that is a [124] Recommendation
of the Overseers that the Town make a compensation to Capt
Benjamin Hammatt for the injury done his property and furni-
ture at the late fire of the workhouse and considering that he
is an ancient, approved and faithful servant of the Town and
has served the Town with fidelity for a trifling salary for a
great number of years. The Committee having considered this
subject recommend that the Town make him an allowance of
two hundred dollars as an indemnity for his losses —
William Donnison
P. Order.
The aforegoing report having been several times read and
debated the question was put viz — Whether the same shall be
accepted passed by a very great majority in the affirmative — as
also that the sum of Two hundred dollars be and hereby is
allowed to Cap1. Benjamin Hammatt for loss sustained in the
late fire at the Work-house as recommended in the above report
Voted, that all matters unfinished be referred over to May
Meeting
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to the Honble.
Thomas Dawes Esq. the Moderator for his good services in the
dispatch given the business of this meeting —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[125.] At a Meeting of the male Inhabitants of the Town of
Boston of Twenty one years of age and upwards qualified as the
Constitution prescribes and legally warned in public Town meet-
ing assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the first day of April
Anno Domini 1799. — at 9 oClock A. M. —
Prayer by Revd. Doct. Lathrop.
Warrant for calling meeting - - Read.
Paragraph of the Constitution or Frame of Government relative
to the choice of Governor, L*. Governor and Senators - - Read
It was then declared by the Selectmen that no votes would be
received but such as were unfolded and that they purpose the
Poll should be closed at 2 oClock the Votes to be received (but
such as were unfolded) at the Table and the bells to begin ringing
at One oClock.
Persons, voted for as Governor with the number of votes for
each Person Viz.
68 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Votes
His Excellency Increase Sumner 1904
Honbie William Heath Esq. 546
Elbridge Gerry Esq. - 1
Peter R Dalton Esq. 1
Persons voted for as IA Governor, with the number of votes
for each Person Viz*.
His Honor Moses Gill Esq. 2446
Honble Samuel Phillips Esq. 1
Honble George Cabbot 1
Mr. John Parker 1
Mr. Thomas Stetson 1
[126] Persons, voted for as Senators for the County of
Suffolk with the number of votes for each Person.
Votes,
Honble Thomas Dawes Esq. - 2187
Honble Oliver Wendall Esq. 2294
Honble. John C. Jones 2233
Jonathan Mason Esq. - -- 1888
Honble. James Bowdoin Esq - - 629
Honble. Benjamin Austin Jun Esq. ----- 176
William Eustis Esq. 246
Charles Jarvis Esq. .._ 143
Honble William Heath Esq. 1
Arnold Welles Esq. 2
John Duggan 4
John Magner ----------- 2
John Codman Esq 4
David Green Esq 1
Samuel Cooper Esq 1
Samuel Brown Esq - 1
Benjamin Russell Esq --------- l
Jonathan Loring Austin Esq. 1
Joseph Blake Esq 1
Thomas Lewis, Senior 1
Alexander Young 1
Thomas Minns ----------- 1
Amos Hovey 1
Attested copies of the Persons voted for. as Governor Lieut.
Governor and Senators for the County of Suffolk were committed
by the Town Clerk to the Secretary of the Commonwealth, and
the enclosures sealed up in town meeting superscribed as follows
Viz*.
For John Avery Esq.
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
[127.] The number of Votes of the Town of Boston for a
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1799. 69
Governor and Lieut Governor & four Senators for the County of
Suffolk certified within and sealed up in Town meeting
Then the Meeting was Dissolved
At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public Town
meeting assembled at Fanuiel Hall on Tuesday the fourteenth
day of May AD 1799. 10 °Clock AM.
Prayer was made by Rev*1. Doct Stilhnan
Warrant for calling a meeting - - Read
That part of the Constitution or Frame of Government which
relates to the choice of Representatives — Read ; also the law
relative to mourning.*
The Town having determined by a vote to choose seven Repre-
sentatives to represent them in the General Court of Massachu-
setts to be held in the State house in Boston on the last Wednesday
of May current agreeable to the Constitution or Frame of gov-
ernment for Massachusetts the Inhabitants were directed by the
Selectmen to withdraw and bring in their votes for seven Repre-
sentatives and then it was declared by the Selectmen that no
votes would be received but such as are unfolded, and that they
purpose the Poll shall be closed at $ past one °Clock [128] the
assessors to attend at the delivery of votes and the bell to begin
tolling at 1 °Clock and to continue tolling until the time of half
an hour expire
The votes being brought in for seven Representatives the num-
ber of the same were found to be 1403 and upon assorting them
it appeared that the following seven Gentlemen had obtained a
majoritv of votes Viz*.
Votes
Joseph Russell Esq. 1332
William Smith Esq. 1323
John Lowell Jun. Esq. 1098
Mr. Samuel Cobb 1310
Samuel Parkman Esq. 1132
Joseph Hall Esq. 1083
Nathan Frazer Esq. 1064
The votes given for such as did not obtain
Votes
William Eustis Esq. ----_.... 289
James Bowdoin Esq. 303
*Thls relates to a By-Law passed in 1785, it being deemed necessary, owing to the
excessive expenditure at funerals, to regulate the outward forms of mourning to the
most simple observance, such as a piece of black crape upon the arm for men, and
a black hat or bonnet, ribbons or fan for the women.
70 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Charles Jarvis Esq. ........ - 19
John Winthrop Esq. ......... 152
William Tudor Esq .......... 189
Honble Benjamin Austin Jun. Esq. ..... 28
Russell Sturgis Esq. - ........ 25
Samuel Brown Esq. ......... 16
Josiah Quincy Esq. -" ........ 12
Nat1. Fellows Esq. .......... 11
The other votes given in were scattering and not entered in this
book but are named in the paper filed with the rough minutes.
The choice of Representatives being over and declared by the
Selectmen. The Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq. was chosen Moder-
ator of this meeting in order that the Town [129] might proceed
in transacting the other business mentioned in the warrant.
Adjourned to 4 °clock P. M.
At three °clock PM met according to adjournment.
Mr. Low was on motion excused serving as Constable —
A schedule of the Town expences was reported and on motion,
Voted that the same be printed & delivered to the Inhabitants —
The committee appointed to audit the Town Treasurers accounts
have attended that service and report that they find the accounts
well vouched and rightly cast — that there was due to the Town
the 30th. April last, by the Books (exclusive o.f the money appro-
propriated for the building a new almshouse of
$35096 .. 59 .. 3
From which must be deducted Viz*.
Towns powder - - 1041 . 94 . 5
Interest Acc° - - 3302 . 70 . 1
suppose abatem*. on '98 Tax 4000 . ,, ,, 8344 .. 64 .. 6
$26751 .. 94 .. 7
There is due from the Collectors Viz.
Benjamin Henderson - 10520 . 58
Thomas Bailey - - - 14187 . 98
James Thompson - - 14477 .. 9
Benjamin Jepson - - 11672 .. 68
$50,858 .. 33
On the other side is an estimate for the necessary expences of
the current year, and your Commissioners are of opinion that a
Tax of 60.000 dollars ought to be laid to defray the same
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1799. 71
They annex the Treasurers general accounts and a trial Balance
of his books
all which is submitted
Herman Brimmer ^
Joseph Russell Junr. > Com™.
Samuel Brown )
[13O.] The aforegoing Report having been read & considered
the same was accepted, whereupon
Voted, That the sum of Sixty thousand dollars be raised by a
tax to be assessed on the Polls and estates of the Inhabitants of
the Town to defray the expences of the current year.
Voted, that the sum of Six hundred sixty six dollars be allowed
and paid unto Samuel Clap for his services as Town Treasurer the
present year, the same to be paid him quarterly as it shall become
due, and to commence first March last. —
Voted, that the sum of Six hundred and sixty six dollars be
allowed and paid unto William Cooper for his services as Town
Clerk the present year, the same to be paid him quarterly as it
shall become due and to commence from 1st. March last.
Voted, that the sum of Four hundred thirty three dollars be
allowed to each of the assessors for their respective services
the present year, the same to be paid them quarterly as it shall
become due and to commence the first of March last. —
The choice of Officers wanted referred to the adjournment.
The application of Josiah Knapp for liberty to fill up the Dock
between his land and that of Mr. Healey etc. read, whereupon
Voted that the Prayer of Mr. Knapp be so far granted that the
Selectmen be a Committee to settle with him on the principle to
secure the Town from any encroachment from the Petitioner, and
to secure the rights of the Town. —
[131.] Another petition from Josiah Knapp to purchase a
lot of land lying on Beach Street, belonging to the Town read,
whereupon,
Voted that the Selectmen be and hereby [are] authorized and
empowered to dispose of said piece of Land in the manner printed
out by a By Law of this Town
The article in warrant relative to securing the Towns land on
the neck, read, and the Selectmen appointed a Committee to
consider the same and report thereon at the adjournment.
72 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The application of several of the Inhabitants relative to a
supply of monies for the Board of health, read, whereupon,
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be and hereby is authorized
and empowered to borrow for the use of the Board of Health a
sum not exceeding Two thousand dollars
The Articles in the Warrant viz that such further By Laws be
made as shall appear necessary to improve the Police of the
Town, read, whereupon
Voted, that Mr. Bourne
Judge Sullivan
Mr. Sherburne
Cap*. Prince
Mr. Lowell Junr.
be a Committee to Report such By Laws as may be necessary for
said purpose.
The article in the warrant relative to the increase of Negroes
from West Indies &c. read, whereupon Voted, that the afore-
going Committee on the By-laws be a Committee to consider this
article and report thereon.
The prayer of Judge Wendell for an exchange of land with
the Town on Fort hill read — whereupon
[133.] Voted, that the Selectmen be a Committee to
consider this matter and to report their opinion thereon
The application of Auctioneers for leave to expose their
merchandize in the Streets — read and debated — and leave given
for withdrawing their petition
Article in the warrant relative to the expediency of having a
cellar under Faneuil Hall Market, read — whereupon voted that
this matter be left to the Selectmen, they to proceed therein as
shall be judged to be for the Interest of the Town
The article in' Warrant relative to Major Wilds request for a
Gunhouse — to be considered at the adjournment. —
Adjourned to Friday 24th. inst. 10 oClock Forenoon.
Friday the 24th. May 10 oClock Forenoon met according to
adjournment.
The Committee to whom was referred the consideration of
what measures might be taken relative to the negroes in the Town
of Boston have attended that service and beg leave to report as
their opinion that the Commonwealth is deeply interested in the
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1799. 73
great influx of Negroes and the other people of colour both from
the West Indies & the Southern States. That your Committee
have not had sufficient time to mature the subject so as to form a
digested Plan to remedy the mischief. They however recommend
to the town to appoint a Committee to apply to the General Court
at their next session for their interposition and aid in the
Premises, all which is humbly submitted.
Shearjasheb Bourne
[133.] The aforegoing Report having been read the Town
accepted of the same and appointed Shearjasheb Bourne, Judge
Sullivan, William Sherburne Esq., Cap*. Prince & John Lowell
Jun. Esq the Committee for the purposes mentioned in said
report
The Inhabitants having brought in their votes as directed by
the Selectmen for one Selectman in the room of Joseph May Esq.
who had resigned and the same having been counted it appeared
that
Mr. John Tileston
was chosen having 105 votes out of 199.
A memorial of the assessors was read and on motion, Voted
that the sum of One hundred dollars be allowed to each of the
assessors the present year on account of the rise of Provisions,
as has been for several years past — the vote of the 14th. instant
notwithstanding.
Article in warrant relative to a Gun house taken up — where-
upon, Voted that the Selectmen be directed to accommodate Mr.
Wilds Company of Artillery with sufficient ground at the easterly
end of the South Burying place on the common for the purpose
of erecting a gun house thereon.
Votes brought in for one Constable, when it appeared that
Cap*. Joseph Ingraham was chosen
The Selectmen to whom was referred the request of Oliver
Wendell Esq for exchange of land on Fort hill — reported, that
Oliver Wendell Esq being absent they conversed with his attor-
ney and with the abuttors on the land proposed to be exchanged,
and are of opinion that* an exchange would be for the advantage
of the Town provided suitable conditions could be agreed on
Charles Bulfinch
Chairman, per order.
[134.] The aforegoing report having been read the same
was accepted by the Town and the Selectmen authorized & em-
powered to settle and complete the business with Mr. Wendell
The Committee on the subject of By-laws reported the form of
74 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
a law to regulate the paving of the streets and to remove Incum-
brances on the same, which though read and accepted by the
Town the Court of sessions thought they could not legally take
up the matter, and it has since been made a law of this Common-
wealth — also a By-Law for the regulating of trucks carts and
other carriages which has been approved of by the Court of Ses-
sions and is as follows Viz1. For the regulation of Trucks Carts
and other carriages in the Streets of Boston.
That the selectmen be authorized within one month after the
publication of this By-law and from time to time afterwards as
occasion may require to appoint such and so many stands for all
kinds of Carts Trucks and Wheelbarrows as to them shall appear
requisite, to some one or other of which stands all drivers of such
Carts and Trucks shall repair with their carriages and horses
when unemployed in the day, And any driver or owner of such
Cart Truck or Wheelbarrow who shall stand in any other place
than such as shall be directed by the Selectmen shall forfeit and
pay for every offence One dollar
Each and every driver or owner of a cart or truck shall place
his horses and cart or trucks length-ways close to the Posts or
abutting stone of the footwalk of the Street in which he shall
stand under the penalty of One dollar for every neglect.
And no more than one range of Carts or Trucks shall stand in
Streets not more than 30 feet wide and not more than one range
on each side in streets which are of a greater width than 30 feet —
and in squares and other large & open [135] places they shall
be arranged by order and conform to the directions of the Select-
men or the surveyors of high ways, and every driver neglecting to
conform to this law shall forfeit and pay one dollar for every
offence.
If any Waggoner, Carter, Truckman or other Driver of any Car-
riage, Sled or Sleigh for pleasure or burthen shall stop or place
any such carriage Sled or Sleigh in any such manner as to cross
the street or foot path or prevent other carriages or foot passen-
gers from passing in the direction of such street and shall not in
five minutes after the request of any passenger cause the same to
be removed or shall be absent therefrom so that such request
cannot be made, every person so offending shall forfeit and pay
for every offence One dollar.
All which fines and forfeitures upon conviction before any
Court proper to try the same shall be one moiety to and for the
use of the Poor of the Town of Boston and the other moiety to
him or them who shall inform or prosecute for the same.
On motion voted that all matters which shall remain unfinished
be referred to the next general meeting that shall be called.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1799. 75
Voted, That the Thanks of the Town be and hereby are given
to the Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq Moderator for his good ser-
vices in the dispatch given the business of the meeting.
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[136] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in
public town meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the
4th. day of July AD 1799.
Warrant for calling the meeting — Read.
William Cooper chosen Moderator.
The Committee appointed last year to make choice of a Gen-
tleman to deliver an Oration on the Anniversary of Independence.
Reported, that they had made choice of John Lowell Jun Esq who
has accepted the appointment —
On motion adjourned to Old South Church when agreeable to
Information of the Chairman of the selectmen
AN ORATION.
to commemorate the Independence of the United States was de-
livered by John Lowell Jun Esq at the Old South Church.
On motion voted that the Selectmen be a Committee to wait on
John Lowell Jun Esq and in the name of the Town to thank him
for the spirited and elegant Oration this day delivered by him at
the request of the Town, upon the Anniversary of the Indepen-
dence of the United States of America in which according to the
institution of the Town he considered the feelings manners and
principles which led to that great National event, and to request
of him a Copy thereof for the press.
[137] On motion, Voted, that the Gentlemen Selectmen be
and hereby are appointed a Committee to apply to some one able
and learned Gentlemen to deliver an Oration on the fourth of
July, AD, 1800, that day being the Anniversary of the Indepen-
dence of the United States of America ; wherein the'Orator is to
consider the feelings manners and principles which led to this
great national event, as well as the important and happy effects
whether general or domestic which have already or will forever
flow from that conspicuous Epoch
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
76 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
At a meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public
Town meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday, the
Twenty fifth day of September, Anno Domini 1799. 10 °Clock
AM—
Warrant for calling a meeting - - Read.
General Elliot, chosen Moderator by a hand vote, being by his
desire excused.
General Winslow chosen Moderator, and being by his desire
also excused.
The Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq was chosen Moderator and
took the chair accordingly.
The article in the warrant viz. whether any and what measures
shall be taken to carry into effect the will of the late Thomas
Boylston Esq. — was read
[138.] Whereupon, Voted, that
Honble. James Sullivan Esq
Dr. Charles Jarvis (excused)
Honble. Harrison G. Otis Esq
Honbie. George R. Minot Esq
John Davis Esq
John Lowell Jun Esq
Honble. Robt T Paine Esq
Honble Judge Dawes
be a Committee to take this matter into consideration and to
report on the same at the adjournment.
The article in the warrant relative to a gun house at the bottom
of the Common and a petition of a large number of the Inhabitants
for reconsidering the Vote of the Town permitting its erection,
were read — Voted that the Petitioners have leave to withdraw
their petition —
The article in the warrant viz " To consider the Report of the
Selectmen with respect to such streets as have been laid out by
them, also the expediency of widening several streets and whether
the Town will appropriate any money to defray the expence
thereof " was read and accepted, also
Voted that the sum of Four thousand dollars be appropriated
for the purpose of defraying the charge of widening such streets
as the Selectmen may judge proper
The Selectmen appointed to regulate the Jury Boxes according
to Law
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1799. 77
The article relative to speedy collecting of the Tax for 1798
read — whereupon Voted that the Selectmen be directed to call
upon the Collectors and press their exerting themselves for the
speedy collection of the Tax of 1798, and that the same be
published.
[139.] Messrs. Daniel Ingersol Jun
William Andrews
were chosen Surveyors of Boards for the present year
Adjourned to Wednesday the 23d October next 10 °Clock AM
Wednesday Oct 23, 1799. 10 °Clock AM met according to
adjournment
The Committee on the will of the late Thomas Boylston,
reported as follows viz .
That they have attended to the opinion given thereon by a
Council in London as the same is annexed to a copy of the will :
and are nevertheless of opinion that the Town of Boston are
entitled to the property and as a Corporation may sue for the
same.
And that it is expedient for the Town to appoint Agents with
power of substitution, giving to them authority to pursue all
measures to carry the will into effect.
That the Selectmen have authority to make provision for
defraying all expences attending the business
) James Sullivan
October 21. 1799 f Chairman
The aforegoing Report having been read and considered — the
question was put, viz. Whether said Report shall be accepted —
Passed in the affirmative, also
Voted, that the Gentlemen Selectmen be the Agents for
carrying said Report into effect —
Voted, that all matters which remain unfinished be referred to
the next General Town meeting
Voted, that the thanks of this Town be given to Honble. Thomas
Dawes Esq. for his good services as Moderator
Then the meeting was dissolved.
[14O.] At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabit-
ants of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public Town
78 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday 30th. December
AD 1799 — 10 °Clock AM
Warrant for calling the meeting — Read
The Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq. was chosen Moderator.
The article in the warrant viz to consider what measures shall
be taken by the Town on occasion of the sorrowful and distress-
ing event of the death of the late Lieu*. GEORGE WASHINGTON, in
testimony of the high respect and esteem entertained by his
fellow Citizens for so illustrious a character, the following votes
were passed unanimously viz
Voted that a Committee be appointed consisting of eighteen of
which the Selectmen shall form a constituent part to devise and
recommend to the Inhabitants such marks of mourning and other
expressions of public sensibility on the late afflictive event as to
the said Committee shall appear just and appropriate — and that
such measures as they shall recommend to the Inhabitants through
the medium of the public papers shall be by them immediately
adopted.
Voted that said Committee be desired to elect and request one
of our fellow Citizens to pronounce an eulogium on the memory
of the late GENL. WASHINGTON at such time and place as they
shall think proper. —
[141.] Voted, that in addition to the Gentlemen the select-
men
The Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq.
Honble. John C. Jones Esq.
Honble. Judge Minot
Josiah Quincy Esq.
Col. Revere
Col. Bradford
Gen1. Elliot
Gen1. Winslow
Joseph Russell Esq.
be and hereby are appointed the Committee for carrying into
effect the aforegoing votes. —
The article in the warrant relative to old State house was
read — whereupon
Voted that the Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq., Oliver Wendell Esq.,
the Senators of this district and the Representatives of the Town
of Boston be authorized with full powers to make any contract
with the General Court relative to the Old Town house and the
land on which it stands, on terms which to them may appear most
for the advantage and honor of the Town
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1800. 79
Voted, that the thanks of the Town be given to Honble. Thomas
Dawes Esq for his good services as moderator of the meeting.
Then the meeting was Dissolved.
18OO.
[142.] At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabit-
ants of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in
public town meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the
tenth day of March Anno Domini 1800, 9°Clock — Forenoon.
Prayer was made by Revd. Dr. Howard.
Warrant for calling a meeting was read
Sundry laws to be read at this meeting were accordingly read.
Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq. was chosen Moderator by a hand
vote.
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
votes for a Town Clerk and the same being brought in and
counted it appeared that
William Cooper Esq.
was chosen Town Clerk for the year ensuing ; and the oath of
office was administered by Mr. Justice Sherburne
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
votes for nine Selectmen and upon assorting them it appeared that
the following Gentlemen were chosen Viz
Charles Bulfinch Esq
David Tilden Esq
Russell Sturgis Esq
Cap*. Joseph Howard
Ebenr. Hancock
William Porter
William Sherburne Esq.
John Tileston
Ebenezer Oliver
[143.] The votes being brought in for Overseers of the
Poor as directed, upon assorting them it appeared that
Edward Proctor Esq.
John Sweetser Esq.
Jona. L. Austin Esq.
Mr. Edward Edes
Henry Hill Esq
William Smith Esq
80 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
William Phillips Esq.
M. Oliver Brewster
Arnold Welles Junr Esq
Doct Redford Webster
Thomas Perkins Esq.
were chosen Overseers of the Poor for the year ensuing.
The Inhabitants brought in their votes for 24 Firewards when it
appeared that
Thomas Melvill Esq
Edward Edes
Amasa Davis Esq
Samuel Parkman Esq.
Russell Sturgis Esq
Henry Jackson
William Scollay
Joseph May — Esq
Cap*. Robert Gardner
John May
William Brown Esq
Nathaniel Fellows Esq
Samuel Bradford Esq
Mr. Joseph Head
Thomas H. Perkins Esq
John Win slow Esq
Capt. Joseph Howard
Benjamin Jay [Joy?]
Stephen Codman Esq
Andrew Cunningham Esq
John Bray
Thomas Dennie Esq
Gen'l Simon Elliot Esq
[144.] Mr. Gorman Parsons
were chosen Fire-wards for the year ensuing.
Voted that the thanks of the Town be given to Mr. Samuel
Cobb who has resigned as a selectman, for his good services
while in that office — Also to Jabez Hatch Esq. Joseph Russell
Esq who have declined serving as firewards for their good services
in that Office a number of years past, and to Rev. Doct Stillman
and Dr. Spooner who declined serving as a school committee, for
their good services a number of years past.
Samuel Clap Esq
was chosen Town Treasurer for the year ensuing.
Votes for a treasurer for the County of Suffolk brought in and
counted by the moderator and Town Clerk, when it appeared that
the whole number [was] 208 all of which were [for] Ebenezer
Sever Esq a suitable person & a freeholder and resident in said
Countv
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1800. 81
Voted that in addition to the Selectmen twelve persons shall
now be chosen as a school committee and the votes being brought
in and assorted it appear'd that the following Gentlemen were
chosen — Viz
Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq.
Sam1. West DD.
Joseph Eckley DD.
Revd. Mr. Kirkland
Doct Thomas Welsh
Doct Aaron Dexter
Mr. William Smith
Mr. Arnold Welles Jun
Edward Gray Esq
David Green Esq
Rufus G. Amory Esq
Josiah Quincy Esq.
[145.] Voted that the above named Gentlemen who
conjunctly with the Selectmen are termed the School Committee
be and hereby are directed to carry the new system of Education
which has been adopted by the town into operation by said com-
mittee [and] are also authorized & impowered conjunctly to
manage and regulate the Officers & government of the Schools and
in future to exercise all the power relating [to] the Schools and
School masters, which the Selectmen or such Committees were
authorized by the laws of this Commonwealth or the Votes of the
Town to exercise ; any former vote of the Town to the contrary
notwithstanding.
Voted, that the Assessors be and hereby are directed to set for
such abatement of taxes as they shall judge reasonable two days
in such weeks, after the delivery of the tax books to the collectors,
for the space of six weeks and no longer, saving they be allowed
to sit the last week in February, (Lords days excepted) for the
abatement of the Taxes of such persons as had not an oppor-
tunity of applying in the above limited time by reason of their
being out [of] the Commonwealth, or any other unavoidable
hindrance, and that the Assessors determine on the said two days,
which is to be voted on, the tax bills to be delivered the
Inhabitants
The Votes being brought in for assessors & counted and
assorted it appeared that Messrs.
John R Sigourney
Caleb Blanchard
Ebenezer Sever Esq
John Hurd Esq
Mr. Benjamin Hammatt Junior
were chosen assessors for the year ensuing
Voted that Five per cent be and hereby are allowed to the Col-
82 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
lectors of taxes for the year ensuing for all such sums of money
and public Securities as they shall collect & pay in to the several
Treasurers of the sums committed to them to collect, also that such
Collectors shall give bond with sufficient sureties to the satisfaction
of the Selectmen for the faithful discharge of their duty in said
office and [146] complying with this vote, and that they will not
receive any premium or gratuity for discounting any orders &
notes on receipts from the Treasurer of this State or the Treas-
urer of this Town —
The Votes being brought in for four Collectors of Taxes it ap-
peared that
Messrs. Benjamin Henderson
Thomas Bayley
James Thompson
Benjamin Jepson
were chosen Collectors of Taxes for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Shubael Hewes
Thomas Stevenson
Amos Lewis
Jirah Holbrook
Samuel White
Enoch May
Abraham Tuckerman
Noah Butts
John Trench
Samuel Gridley
Andrew Townsend
Joseph Ingraham
were chosen Constables for the year ensuing.
Votes for 12 Surveyors of boards and shingles were brought in,
when it appeared that
Messrs. Joshua Bentley
Benjamin White
Benjamin Page
James Blake
John Cogswell
Edmund Ranger
William Clouston
William Darracott
William Ellison
James Robbins
William Andrews
Daniel Ingersoll
were chosen Surveyors of boards & shingles for the year ensuing.
[147.] Voted tha Herman Brimmer Esq
Joseph Russell Esq
Samuel Brown Esq
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1800. 83
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to audit the accounts of
the Town Treasurer and also the accounts of the Selectmen. Over-
seers of the Poor and board of Health, and said Committee are
also directed to report the sum necessary to be raised for the
services of the present year.
On motion Voted that
Joseph Russell Esq
William Parsons
John C. Jones Esq
be a committee to consider what number of Cullers of staves and
hoops shall be chosen for the year ensuing
Adjourned to 3 oClock P. M.
At three oClock P M the Town met according to adjournment.
Messrs. Thomas Bradlee
David Hollis
Nathaniel Loring
Thomas Sullivan
were chosen Sealers of leather for the year ensuing
Messrs. Benjamin White
Moses Ayers
Daniel Ingersol
William Darricot
were chosen Fence viewers for the year ensuing
Messrs. George Hamlin
Barney Connor
William Wheeler
were chosen Hogreeves for the year ensuing
Messrs. George Hamlin
Barney Connor
William Wheeler
were chosen Haywards for the year ensuing
Messrs. Jeflfry Richardson
Isaac P. Davis
were chosen Surveyors of Hemp for the year ensuing
[148.] Edward Tuckerman Esq.
Mr. Edward Edes
were chosen Surveyors of wheat for the year ensuing
Messrs. John Wells
William Cooper Hunneman
were chosen Assay Masters for the year ensuing.
84 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The Selectmen
were chosen Surveyors of Highway for the year ensuing
Messrs. Roger Barlett
Jonathan Gushing
Joseph Doble
William Late
were chosen cullers of dry fish for the year ensuing
Mr. Edward Rumley
was chosen Inspector of Stone lime for the year ensuing.
The article in the warrant, viz ' ' To act upon the petition of
Nathaniel Patten of Roxbury that the Town would sell or lease
to him a spot of ground adjoining the Ropewalk on Boston
Neck, and to consider what measures shall be taken to improve
the Towns property there," was read : Whereupon Voted that the
Gentlemen Selectmen be a committee to take said Petition and
the Subject of the Towns lands on the neck into full considera-
tion, and to report at May meeting
The petition of Mr. John Kuhn in behalf of himself and
William Kempton that the Town would remit their proportion of
the Fine incurred by them for erecting a building contrary to law,
in conformity to a resolve of the Honble. Legislature passed for
their relief was read and considered — and the question being put
viz Whether the prayer of this petition shall be granted passed in
the affirmative.
The article in the warrant viz "To consider whether any and
what measures shall be taken to endeavour to effect the permanent
establishment of a Dock Yard [149] for the continental nary
within the limits of the town was read, whereupon Voted that
Messrs. William Parsons
Edmund Hart
John Coffin Jones Esq
Samuel Brown Esq
Henry Jackson Esq
be a committee to consider this article and report thereon at the
adjournment of this meeting
The article in the warrant viz Whether the Selectmen shall be
empowered to carry into effect a vote of the town passed in 1791
for erecting new stalls in market square to accommodate the per-
sons frequenting the market and to remove the great number of
carts and horses from the streets in that neighborhood " read and
considered — whereupon Voted that the Gentlemen Selectmen be
directed to proceed in this business agreeable to the vote passed
in 1791 — and as they shall judge will be most for the interest of
the Town
Adjourned to Wednesday the 19th. inst. 10 °Clock AM.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1800. 85
Wednesday March 19, 1800 — 10 °Clock AM met according to
adjournment
Revd. William Emmerson chosen one of the School committee
in the room of Rufus G Amory who has resigned, and to whom a
vote of thanks was given for his good services while of that
committee
Samuel Adams
chosen into the office of a Hay ward, also that of a Hogreeve for
the year ensuing.
The Town having voted to choose four cullers of hoops and
staves and the votes having been bro*. in accordingly it appeared
that
Messrs. Henry Purkitt
Lemuel Gardner
Thomas Barber
James 'Eunson
were chosen Cullers of hoops and Staves for the year ensuing
[15O.] The committee appointed to consider whether any
and what measures shall be taken to effect the establishment of a
national dockyard within the limits of this Town ; have attended
to the object of their commission and after [having] duly con-
sidered the vacant lands in the north part of the town between
Winnisimmet Ferry and the lower bridge, on Noddles Island the
latter being within the limits of the town are convenient for a
public Dock Yard but if the former of these situations is pre-
ferred, the Town way must be included within the limits of the
yard ; but as the United States will have jurisdiction over all
places ceded to them the Committee prefer Noddles Island as a
place where there will be less danger of a clashing of Jurisdiction
and when [where] the people employed in the Dock Yard will be
kept more easily under control of the national laws and have less
intercourse with the other Inhabitants of the Town therefore the
Committee have concluded to report that measures be taken to
endeavour to effect the permanent establishment of a dock for the
Continental Navy within the limits of this town and further
propose that the board of Selectmen with William Parsons Henry
Jackson John C Jones and Edmund Hart be authorized & re-
quested to correspond with the Secretary of the Navy on this
Subject, and further to take all prudent and reasonable measures
that may be necessary to effect the contemplated establishment
William Parsons
Henry Jackson
John C Jones
Edmund Hart
The aforegoing report having been read & amended the ques-
tion was put viz. Whether the same shall be accepted — Passed
in the affirmative. —
86 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Voted that all matters which shall remain unfinished at this
meeting, be referred over to May meeting.
[151.] Voted that the thanks of the town be given to the
Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq. the moderator of this meeting for
his good services in the dispatch given the business which came
before them.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
At a meeting of the male Inhabitants of the town of Boston of
twenty-one years of age and upwards, qualified as the Constitu-
tion prescribes, and legally warned in public town meeting
assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the seventh day of April
Anno Domini 1800, 9 °Clock A M —
Prayer was made by Revd. Doct Thatcher
"Warrant for calling a meeting was - - Read
Paragraph of the Constitution or Frame of Government rela-
tive to the choice of Governor Ll. Governor & Senators - Read
It was then declared by the Selectmen that no Votes would be
received but such as were unfolded, and that they propose the
poll should be closed at half past One °Clock the votes to be
received at the table and the bells to begin ringing at one °Clock,
and to continue for half an hour
Persons voted for as Governor, with the number of votes for
each person Viz*.
Votes.
His Honor Moses Gill 8
Honble Elbridge Gerry Esq 1555
Honble Caleb Strong Esq 1531
Honble Edward Hutchinson Esq • - 2
Honwe William Heath Esq 1
*Persons voted for as Lt. Governor, with the number of votes
for each person, Vizt.
His Honor Moses Gill .3,035
Honbie Wm Heath Esq. - ' 26
Honble Sam1 Phillips Esq. 9
Honble[Theophilus?]CushingEsq. 3
Honble Caleb Strong Esq. 5
Honble Fisher Ames Esq. 4
Honble Elbridge Gerry - - 2
Honble Edw. H. Bobbins Esq. 1
Honble James Bowdoin 1
*This list of candidates and voters was omitted from these records, and has been
taken from the return filed in the Archives Department of the office of the Secretary
of the Commonwealth.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1800. 87
[152.] Persons voted for as Senators with the number of
votes for each person Viz*.
Votes
Honble Thomas Dawes Esq 3000
Honble Oliver Wendell Esq 3064
Honble John C Jones Esq 3067
William Eustis Esq 1553
Honble Jonathan Mason - 1534
Charles Jarvis Esq 20
Honble James Bowdoin Esq 12
John Codman Esq 41
Honble Benjamin Austin Jun Esq 19
William Smith Esq -.. 7
Honble Theophilus Cushing Esq 3
Samuel Brown Esq --- - l
George Blake Esq 2
Attested copies of the persons voted for as Governor L*
Governor and Senators for the County of Suffolk were committed
by the Town Clerk to the Secretary of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts and the inclosures sealed up in Town meeting
subscribed as follows Viz'
For John Avery Esq.
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The number of votes for the Town of Boston, for a Governor
L* Governor, and four Senators for the County of Suffolk, certi-
fied within and sealed up in Town meeting
Then the meeting was dissolved.
[153.] At a meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston, duly qualified, and legally warned, in
public Town meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Tuesday the
eighth day of April A D 1800, 10 °Clock A M
Warrant for calling the meeting - - Read
Honble Thomas Dawes Esq
was chosen Moderator for this meeting by a hand vote
The article in the warrant relative to compensation to Judge of
Municipal Court, and to choose a suitable person learned in law to
appear as advocate in said Court and to grant him compensation
was read, whereupon it was moved and voted that
Joseph Russell Esq
General Elliot
Honble Thomas Dawes Esq
Josiah Quincy Esq
Mr Ebenezer Oliver
Charles Bulfinch Esq
88 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
be a committee to take the matter of compensation into considera-
tion and report in this meeting
The Inhabitants were directed to bring in their votes for a
suitable person to appear as advocate in the Municipal Court, and
the votes being brought in & assorted it appeared that
John Phillips, was chosen.
The Committee chosen to consider what sum would be an ade-
quate compensation to t'he Judge of the Municipal Court, and to
the Advocate for the Town in the said Court report,
That in the year 1797 the Town voted that such a Court was
expedient and necessary, and directed an application to be made
to the legislature for its establishing
[154.] This application has been several time under consider-
ation in the General Court and at the last session of the Legislat-
ure received their sanction and was established by law —
The committee in proposing a sum as compensation to the
Judge and Advocate which are to be appointed are desirous
of naming what would be honorable to the Town and would
insure the services of Gentletaen of abilities and respectability,
at the same time they wish to pay a proper regard to decent
economy
The committee would suggest that by the law the salary now to
be voted cannot be reduced during the continuance of the Judge
in his office but may be increased at the pleasure of the Town if
upon experience it should not prove adequate to the services per-
formed ; the Committee therefore propose that the sum of Five
hundred dollars Pr Annum be allowed as salary to the Judge of the
Municipal Court, and that the sum of Two hundred dollars Pr
Annum be allowed to the Town Advocate — these Officers to
account respectively to the Town Treasurer for the Fees and
Fines arising in their respective offices —
Joseph Russell Pr Order
The aforegoing Report having been read and considered — the
Question was put, Viz. shall it be accepted — passed in the
affirmative.
Then the Meeting dissolved.
[155.] At a meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the town of Boston duly qualified, and legally warned in pub-
lic town meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Tuesday the thir-
teenth day of May AD 1800 10 °Clock AM -
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1800. 89
Prayer was made by Revd. Doct. Elliot
Warrant for calling the meeting Read
That part of the constitution or frame of government which
relates to the choice of Representatives Read
The law relative to mourning,* and extracts from several laws to
be read in Town meeting
The Town having determined by a vote to choose seven
persons to represent them in the General Court of Massachusetts
to be held in the State house in Boston on the last Wednesday of
May current, agreeable to the Constitution or frame of govern-
ment for Massachusetts ; the Inhabitants were directed by the
Selectmen to withdraw and bring in their votes for seven Repre-
sentatives, and then it was declared by the Selectmen that no votes
would be received but such as are unfolded, and that they pur-
pose the poll shall be closed at half -past One °Clock — the
assessors to attend at the delivery of the votes, and the bell to
begin tolling at One °Clock, and to continue tolling until a half an
hour is expired.
The votes being brought in for seven Representatives the
whole number of the same were found to be 2449, and upon
assorting them it appeared that the following seven Gentlemen
had obtained a majority of the votes Viz*.
Votes
Joseph Russell Esq. 2417
William Smith Esq. .... V ... . 2429
John Lowell Jun Esq. --- 1552
Mr. Samuel Cobb 2361
Samuel Parkman Esq. 2405
Joseph Hall Esq. 1559
Nathan Fraser Esq. .- 1552
The votes given for such as did not obtain a majority were for
William Tudor Esq 882
William Eustis Esq 911
James Bowdoin Esq -- -- 886
besides a few scattering votes.
[156.] The choice of Representatives being over and de-
clared by the Selectmen
The Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq.
was chosen Moderator of this meeting in order that the town
might proceed in transacting the other business mentioned in the
warrant
Adjourned to 4 °Clock PM
* See foot-note on page 69.
90 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
At 3 [4 ?] oClock PM the town met according to adjournment
On motion Voted that the choice of an assessor in the room of
Mr. Blanchard lately deceased be referred over to the adjourn-
ment — Also
Voted, that the Selectmen request the Committee relative to
cullers of Staves to report suitable persons for that office, if they
should think a further number to be necessary.
The memorial of the Board of Health was read but it was the
sense of the Town that it should not be acted upon until the
Committee on money matters report.
The article in the warrant viz Whether the Town will empower
the Selectmen to sell part of a piece of land at the head of
Middlecot street so called lately bought of Thomas Dennie"
read; whereupon, Voted that the Gentlemen Selectmen be, and
they hereby are authorized and impowered to dispose of said
piece of land for the most it will fetch, and to apply the proceeds
thereof to defray the expences of the new street, and the neces-
sary repairs for Beacon Hill.
The application of John L. Sullivan in behalf of himself and
Sarah Russell a minor, that the Town would accept a Street lead-
ing from Summer Street to Pond Street through lands of the late
Thomas Russell in the words following viz "The Subscriber
requests that a Street may be laid out from Summer Street to
Pond Street, through land of Thomas Russells' Esq. deceased and
now the property of the Subscriber and of Sarah Russell a minor,
as follows beginning at a point 154 feet east [157] of the east-
erly side of Arch Street — thence running South westerly to land
of the heirs of John Rowe Esq 260 feet, and being thirty five feet
wide — thence four feet Northeasterly on said Rowes Land —
then Southwesterly on said Rowes brick house to Pond Street said
Street to be thirty feet wide at the North corner of said brick
house, thence Northeasterly thirty five feet wide to Summer
Street. The Subscriber engages that the Town shall be at no
expence for the land so laid out into a Street, or for the fences
that may be necessary to enclose it ; that he will put the said
Street into good order for the convenient passing of carriages,
and will not expect any expence laid out thereon by the Town,
until in the judgement of the Selectmen, the interest of the town
or the claims of persons resident there, shall make it necessary
that the same shall become a Town charge"
signed John L Sullivan
Therefore be it Known, that on the thirteenth day of May in
the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred, The Selectmen, hav-
ing considered the premises, do hereby lay out the aforedescribed
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1800. 91
piece of land aa a public Street or Town way and it is accordingly
appropriated as a Street or way for the said Town forever by the
name of Plymouth Street subject to the approbation and acceptance
of the Town
Charles Bulfinch "^
David Tilden
Joseph Howard
Wm Porter
Wm Sherburne
John Tileston
Ebenr. Oliver
Kussell Sturgis J
At a meeting of the Inhabitants of the Town of Boston legally
warned and assembled May 13, 1800. — The above described
Street was accepted as a public Street
Att William Cooper Town Clerk
[158.] The warrant at the request of the School Committee
relative to the expediency of establishing a new School, was read
and a further consideration of this request is to subside
The petition of a number of Blacks was read and after debate,
they had leave to withdraw their petition.
Adjourned to Wednesday 21 May inst 10 °Clock AM. —
Wednesday May 21. 1800, The Town met according to adjourn-
ment
The Committee appointed to audit the Town Treasurers
Accounts have attended that service and report, that they find
the Selectmen's drafts amounts to 37230.82
Overseer drafts 1549.90
Board of Health drafts 5039. 4
X53819.76
Committee for Building Almshouse A/C 18500
$72319.76
Your Committee found his accounts well vouched & right cast
and there was due to the Town the 30th Ult°. by the books after
all the drafts are paid 27450.36.3
From which must be deducted
Towns powder - - - - 1041.94.5
Acc°. Interest paid - - - 4480.71.1
Abatem*. "99 Tax suppose - 5000.
Collectors Commissions - - 4000.30.4
14523.
leaves a balance of $12927.36.3
92 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
There is due to the Town from Collectors on '99 Tax
Benjamin Jepson ------- 13645.43
Benjamin Henderson ------ 10267.
Thomas Bayley 18539.93
James Thompson 14139.89
56592.25
[159.] And there is due from the Town
To the Union Banks 20,500
To several persons pr Notes - - - 7962 .. 13 .. 3
28462 .. 13. .3
Your Committee are of opinion that the same sums as above will
be necessary to pay the Selectmen's Overseers & board of
healths drafts for the year ensuing which amounts to
53819 . 76
Also one years interest on the 28962 .. 13 .. 3 — 1710 . 24
55530 .
And they recommend a tax to be laid for 60,000 . — .
Annexed to the Treasurers general accounts a trial balance of
his books — also the Board of Healths account — all which is
respectfully submitted.
Herman Brimmer
Joseph Russell
Samuel Brown ) I
The aforegoing Report having been read and considered by the
Town, the same was accepted, whereupon.
Voted that the sum of Sixty thousand dollars be raised by a
tax to be assessed on the Polls, and estates of the Inhabitants of
the Town to defray the expences of the current year.
Voted that the sum of Six hundred & sixty six dollars be
allowed and paid unto Samuel Clap Esquire for his services as
Town Treasurer the present year, the same to be paid him
quarterly as it shall become due, and to commence on the first of
last March
Voted that the sum of Six hundred & sixty six dollars be
allowed and paid unto "William Cooper Esq. for his services as
Town Clerk the present year, the same to be paid him quarterly
as it shall become due, and to commence on the first of March
last.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1800. 93
Voted, That the sum of Four hundred & thirty three dollars be
allowed and paid unto each of the Assessors for their respective
services the present year, the same to be paid them quarterly, as
it shall become due a-nd to commence the first of March last.
[16O.] Voted that the further sum of One hundred dollars
be allowed and paid the assessors respectively in the manner
aforesaid, in consideration of the rise of Provisions
Voted that the Town Treasurer be authorized and empowered
to borrow on lawful interest for the use of the Board of Health as
there may be occasion a sum not exceeding Four thousand
dollars
On motion, Voted that the thanks of the Town be and hereby
are given to the Board of Health for their eminent service in the
discharge of the duties of their Office the last year.
The votes were brought in for one assessor in the room of Mr.
Blanchard lately deceased — there being no choice the afternoon
was assigned for that purpose
On motion Voted that the Thanks of the town be given to the
jjonbie. xhomas Dawes Esq. for his good services as moderator
Adjourned to 3 Clock P M
At Three Clock PM the Town met according to adjournment,
Col°. Dawes the moderator, being necessarily absent on public
business
David Tilden Esq.
was chosen moderator by a hand Vote.
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw & bring in their votes
for an assessor, and the same being brought and counted it
appeared that the whole number was 708, and that
Mr. Jedidiah Parker
was chosen an assessor for the year ensuing - - - 469 votes
Voted that all matters and things which remain unfinished be
referred over to the next General Town meeting that shall be
called.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
[161.] At a meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public
town meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Friday the fourth day
of July Anno Domini 1800
94 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Warrant for calling the meeting - - Read
William Cooper, chosen Moderator
The Committee appointed last year to make choice of a Gentle-
man to deliver an Oration on the Anniversary of Independence,
Reported, That they had made choice of Joseph Hall Esq. who
has accepted the appointment,
On motion, adjourned to Old south Church, when agreeable to
the information of the Chairman of the Selectmen
AN ORATION
To commemorate the Independence of the United States was
delivered by Joseph Hall Esq. at the Old South Church
On motion voted that the Selectmen be a Committee to wait on
Joseph Hall Esq. and in the name of the Town to thank him for
the elegant and spirited Oration this day delivered by him at the
request of the Town upon the Anniversary of the Independence
of the United States of America, in which according to the
institution of the Town he considered the feelings manners &
principles which led to that great national event. —
On motion voted that the Gentlemen Selectmen be and hereby
are appointed a Committee to apply to some one able and
learned Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the fourth day of
July A D 1801, that day being the Anniversary of the Indepen-
dence of the United States of America wherein the Orator is to
consider the feelings manners and [162] principles which led to
this great national event ; as well as the important and happy
effects whether general or domestic which have already or will
forever flow from that auspicious epoch.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
At a meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants of the
town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public Town
meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday 27 Aug*. AD
1800, 10 oClock — AM—
Warrant for calling the meeting - - Read
Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq.
chosen Moderator of the meeting.
The article in the warrant relative to the right of the town in
the Old State House read & considered whereupon Voted that
Joseph Russell Esq. and John Lowell Jun Esq be and they
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1800. 95
hereby are appointed Agents and Attornies in behalf of the town
to appear at the Supreme Judicial Court now sitting in this town,
and defend in the name of and hehalf of the town against a peti-
tion for partition of Old State house in Boston filed by the
Attorney General in behalf of the Commonwealth, and upon which
Persons who were interested were directed to appear at the pres-
ent term And the said Agents and each of them are hereby
authorized to appear in said cause and to represent the Town and
to do every needful relative thereto until a final determination of
the same.
[163.] The article in the warrant viz "to consider the
expediency of enlarging the South burying ground'"' was read —
whereupon voted that the consideration of this matter be referred
over to the next general town meeting.
Then this meeting was dissolved.
At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public
town meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on the third day of
November Anno Domini 1800 — 10 °Clock A. M. —
Prayer was made by Revd. Joseph Eckley D. D.
Warrant for calling the meeting - - Read
Paragraph of a Resolve of the General Court for the choice of
one Representative for the first middle district of this Common-
wealth in the Congress of the United States, read
It was then declared by the Selectmen that the Poll would be
closed at half past 1 oClock
Persons voted for as a Representative of the first middle dis-
trict of this Commonwealth in the next Congress of the United
States Viz.
William Eustis Esq 1819
Josiah Quincy Esq 1959
Oliver Everett Esq 2
An attested Copy of the persons voted for as above was sealed
up in Town meeting after a declaration had been made by the
Selectmen of the Persons voted for as a Representative of the first
middle district of this Commonwealth in the Congress of the
United States — and the same was put into the hands of the
Secretary of this Commonwealth [164] subscribed as follows Viz
for John Avery Esq.
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
96 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
18O1.
[165.] At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in
public town meeting assembled at Faneuil hall on Monday the
ninth day of March Anno Domini 1801. nine oClock AM —
Prayer was made by Revd. Thomas Baldwin
Warrant for calling a meeting - - Read.
Sundry laws to be read at this meeting were accordingly Read
Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq.
was chosen Moderator by a hand vote
The inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
votes for a Town Clerk, and the same having been brought
in and counted it appeared that
William Cooper
was chosen Town Clerk for the year ensuing, and the Oath of
Office administered by Mr. Justice Sherburne
The inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
votes for nine Selectmen, the same being brought in and sorted
it appeared that only eight were chosen viz
Charles Bulfinch Esq
David Tilden Esq
Russell Sturgis Esq
Cap*. Joseph Howard
William Porter
William Sherburne Esq
Mr. John Tileston
Mr. Ebenezer Oliver
The votes having been brought in for the one wanting it ap-
peared that Mr. Jonathan Hunnewell was chosen a Selectman in
the room of Mr. Hancock
[166.] On motion voted that the thanks of the Town be
and hereby are given unto Ebenezer Hancock Esq for his good
services as a Selectman a number of years past
Votes for a Treasurer for the County of Suffolk were brought
in and counted by the Moderator and Town Clerk when it ap-
peared that the whole number was 285, all of which were for
Ebenezer Seaver Esq a discreet suitable person, and a Freeholder
and Resident in said County.
Votes for a Register of deeds for the County of Suffolk were
brought in and counted by the Moderator and Town Clerk when
it appeared that the whole number was 223, all of which were for
William Alline Esq a discreet suitable person and a Freeholder
and Resident in said County. —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1801. 97
Samuel Clap Esq was chosen Town Treasurer for the ensuing
year.
Voted that in addition to the Selectmen twelve persons shall be
appointed, chosen as a School Committee and the votes being
brought in and sorted it appeared that the following Gentlemen
were chosen viz
Honble Thomas Dawes Esq
Rev'1 Samuel West D.D.
Dr. Thomas Welch
Revd. Joseph Eckley DD
Revd. J. T. Kirkland
Dr. Aaron Dexter
Mr. William Smith
Mr. Arnold Wells Jun.
Edward Gray Esq.
David Greene Esq
Josiah Quincy Esq
Revd. William Emmerson
Voted that the above named Gentlemen who conjunctly with
the Selectmen are termed the School committee, be and hereby
are directed to carry the new system of Education, which has
been adopted by the Town into operation, and said Committee
[167] are also authorized and empowered conjunctly to manage
& regulate the officers & government of the schools, and in future
to exercise all the power relating to'the Schools and Schoolmasters,
which the Selectmen or such Committees were authorized by the
laws of this Commonwealth or the votes of the Town to exer-
cise, any former vote of the town to the contrary notwithstanding.
The inhabitants brought in their votes for 24 Fire wards, when
it appeared that
Thomas Melvill ^
Edward Edes
Amasa Davis
Samuel Parkman ^
Russell Sturgis !>Es<lu'res
Henry Jackson
William Scollay
Joseph May
Cap1. Robert Gardner
John May ")
William Brown > Esquires
Nath1. Fellows )
Samuel Bradford
Mr. Joseph Head
Thomas H. Perkins Esq.
John Winslow Esq.
Cap1. Joseph Howard
Mr. Benjamin Joy
98 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Stephen Codman Esq.
Andrew Cunningham Esq.
Mr. John Bray
Mr. Thomas Dennie
Gen1. Simon Elliot
Mr. Gorham Parsons
were chosen Fire wards for the ensuing year.
Adjourned to 3 oClock P.M.
At three oClock P M the Inhabitants accordingly met, & were
directed to bring in their votes for a town advocate for the
municipal Court, and the same having been brought in it
appeared that John Phillips Esq. was chosen.
[168.] Voted that the assessors be and hereby are directed
to sit for such assessments of taxes, as they shall judge reason-
able, two days in such weeks after the delivery of the tax books
to the collectors for the space of six weeks and no longer, saving
they be allowed to set the last week in February Lords days
excepted for the abatement of the taxes of such persons as had
not an opportunity of applying in the above limited time by
reason of their being out of the Commonwealth or any other
unavoidable hindrance, and that the assessors determine on the
said two days which is to be noted on the tax bills to be delivered
to the inhabitants
Voted that Five percent be and hereby are allowed to the
collectors of Taxes for the year ensuing for all such sums of
money and public securities as they shall collect and pay in [to]
the several treasurers of the sums committed to them to collect
also that such collectors shall give bond with sufficient sureties to
the satisfaction of the Selectmen for the faithful discharge of
their duty in said office and complying with this vote and that
they will not receive any premium or gratuity for discounting any
Orders and notes or receipts from the Treasurer of this State or
the Treasurer of this town.
The votes being brought in for twelve Overseers of the poor it
appeared that
Edward Proctor
John Sweetser
Jona. L. Austin,
Mr. Edward Edes ^
Henry Hill ^squires
William Smith
William Phillips
Stephen Gorham,
Mr. Oliver Brewster
Arnold Welles Jun Esq
Dr Red ford Webster
Thomas Perkins Esq.
were chosen Overseers of the poor for the year ensuing
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1801. 99
The votes being brought in for four collectors of taxes it
appeared that
Messrs. Benjamin Henderson
Thomas Bayley
Benjamin Jepson
Christopher Marshall
[169.] were chosen Collectors of Taxes for the year ensuing
The votes being brought in for five assessors and counted and
sorted it appeared that
Messrs. John R. Sigourney
Ebenezer Seaver
John Hurd
Benjamin Hammatt Jun
Jedediah Parker
were chosen assessors for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Shubael Hewes
Jirah Holbrook
Samuel Gridley
Amos Lewis
Enoch May
Abraham Tuckerman
Samuel White
Andrew Townsend
Noah Butts
Thomas Stevenson
John Bosson
Willard Lane
were chosen Constables for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Benjamin White
Moses Ayers
Daniel Ingersol
William Darricot
were chosen Fence viewers for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Barney Connor
William Wheeler
were chosen Hogreeves for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Barney Conner
William Wheeler
were chosen Haywards for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Jeffry Richardson
Isaac P Davis
were chosen Surveyors of Hemp for the year ensuing.
[1 7O.] Edward Tuckerman Esq.
Mr. Edward Edes
were chosen Surveyors of Wheat for the year ensuing.
100 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Messrs. John Wells
William Cooper Hunneman
were chosen Assay masters for the year ensuing.
The Selectmen
were chosen surveyors of high ways for the year ensuing
Messrs. Roger Bartlett
Jonathan Gushing
were chosen cullers of dry fish for the year ensuing.
Mr. Edward Rumley
was chosen Inspector of Stone Lime for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Henry Purket
Lemuel Gardner
Thomas Barber
James Eason
were chosen Cullers of Hoops & Staves for the year ensuing.
Votes for twelve Surveyors of Boards & Shingles, brought in
when it appeared that
Messrs. Joshua Bentley
Benjamin White
Benjamin Page
James Blake
John Cogswell
Edmund Ranger
William Clouston
William Darricott
William Ellison
James Robbins
William Andrews
Daniel Ingersol
were chosen Surveyors of boards & Shingles for the ensuing-
year
Voted that Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq.
Joseph Russell Esq.
Samuel Brown Esq.
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to audit the accounts
[171] of the Town Treasurer, and also the accounts of the
Selectmen, Overseers of the poor and board of health, and said
committee are also directed to report the sum necessary to be
raised for the services of the present year.
The article in the warrant, to wit " To consider the expediency
of a revision and new edition of the By Laws " was read where-
upon Voted that
the Honble. George Richards Mi not
John Phillips
James Prince
be a committee to take up this article and report at May meeting.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1801. 101
The petition of James Pratt praying liberty to erect a Fish stall
on the Mill Creek was read.
Whereupon Voted that the consideration of this petition be
referred to the Board of Health who are desired to make report
thereon at the Adjournment.
The Report of the Selectmen relative to the improvement and
disposal of the lands on the Neck was read and the further con-
sideration of this important matter was referred to the May
meeting ; and the said report to be printed in the public news-
papers for the information and consideration of the Inhabitants
And this meeting was then adjourned to Wednesday the
eighteenth day of March inst at 10 oClock A M —
The Inhabitants met on Wednesday 18th. March according to
adjournment
Arnold Wells Jun. Esq having declined serving any longer as
an Overseer of the Poor, On motion voted unanimously that the
thanks of the Town be given unto Arnold Welles Jr. Esq. for
his good services as an overseer of the poor a number of years
past.
The choice of an Overseer was referred to May Meeting
[172.] The committee on James Pratts petition for a fish
stall not having reported it was left to said Committee who are
the board of health to act thereon as they shall judge best.
The votes for a Constable in the room of Mr. Bosson who
declines serving being brought in it appeared that Mr. William
Crosby was chosen Constable for the year ensuing.
Voted that all matters which shall remain unfinished at this
meeting be referred over to May meeting
Voted unanimously that the Thanks of the Town be given to
the Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq the Moderator of this meeting for
his good services in the dispatch given the business which came
before them
Then the meeting was dissolved.
[173.] At a meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the town
of Boston of twenty one years of age and upwards qualified as
the constitution prescribes and legally warned in public town
meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 6th. day of
April Anno Domini 1801, nine oClock AM. —
102 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Prayer by Revd. Mr. Freeman
Warrant for calling the meeting Read
Paragraph of the Constitution or frame of government, relative
to the choice of Governor IA Governor and Senators Read.
It was then declared by the Selectmen that no vote would be
received but such as were unfolded, and that they propose the
poll should be closed at half past one oClock the votes to be
received at the table and the bells to begin tolling at £ past one
oClock and to continue for half an hour.
Persons voted for as Governor with the number of votes for
each person — Viz
Votes
His Excellency Caleb Strong Esq. 1851
Honorable Elbridge Gerry Esq. 2078
Persons voted for as Lieu*. Governor with the number of votes
for each person viz
Honble. William Heath Esq. 2062
Honble. Samuel Phillips Esq. 1841
Honble. Edwd. H. Robbins Esq. 14
Persons voted for as Senators for the County of Suffolk with
the number of votes for each person viz.
Honble. Oliver Wendell Esq. 3643
Honble. John C. Jones Esq 1759
Honble. William Tudor Esq 3071
Honble. James Bowdoin Esq 2069
Honble. John Codman Esq. 1738
Honble. Benjamin Austin Esq. 102
[174.] Charles Jarvis Esq. 92
Jonathan Loring Esq. _... 2069
Honble. Harrison Gray Otis Esq. 1
Mr. Samuel Norton 1
Cap1. James Prince 78
George Blake Esq. 1
Attested copies of the persons voted for as Governor, Lieu*.
Governor and Senators for the County of Suffolk were committed
by the Town Clerk to the Secretary of the Commonwealth and the
enclosures sealed up in town meeting, [and superscribed] as fol-
lows viz*.
For John Avery Esq.
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The number of votes of the town of Boston for a Governor
Lieu4. Governor & four Senators for the County of Suffolk certi-
fied within and sealed up in Town meeting.
Then the meeting was dissolved.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1801. 103
[175.] At a meeting of the Freeholders and other inhabitants
of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public
town meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the
thirteenth day of May Anno Domini 1801, 10 °Clock AM —
Prayer was made by the Revd. Mr. Emmerson
Warrant for calling the meeting Read
That part of the Constitution or Frame of Government which
relates to the choice of Representatives - - Read
The law relative to mourning and extracts from several laws to
be read in town meeting were accordingly - - Read
The town having determined by a vote to choose seven persons
to represent them in the General Court of Massachusetts to be
holden in the State house in Boston on the last Wednesday in
May current agreeable to the constitution or frame of Govern-
ment for Massachusetts ; the Inhabitants were directed by the
Selectmen to withdraw and bring in their votes for seven
Representatives and then it was declared by the Selectmen that
no votes would be received but such as are unfolded, and that
they propose the Poll shall be closed at £ past One oClock. the
assessors to attend at the delivery of the votes, and the bell to
begin tolling at 1 oClock, and to continue tolling untill half an
hour is expired.
The votes being brought in for seven Representatives, the
whole number of the same were found to be 2745, and upon
sorting them it appeared that the following seven Gentlemen had
obtained a majority of the Votes viz
Charles Jarvis Esq. 1474
David Tilden Esq. 1467
Benjamin Austin Jun. Esq 1456
Nath'. FeUowes Esq 1460
George Blake Esq. 1467
Cap*. James Prince 1455
Russell Sturgis Esq. 1469
The votes given for such as did not obtain were for
Honble. John C. Jones Esq 1281
Joseph Russell Esq --------- 12 72
Sam1. Parkman Esq. 1277
[176.] William Smith Esq. 1276
Samuel Cobb Esq. 1267
Mr. Jonathan Hunnewell 1253
John Phillips Esq 1269
Josiah Quincy Esq. -.-. 21
besides, a few scattering votes
104 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The choice of Representatives being over and declared by the
Selectmen. The HonMe. Thomas Dawes Esq. was chosen Mod-
erator of this meeting by a hand vote that the town might pro-
ceed in transacting the other business mentioned in the warrant
Adjourned to Four oClock P M.
At Four oClock P M the inhabitants met according to adjourn-
ment—
The votes being brought in for one Overseer of the poor in the
room of Arnold Welles Esq who had resigned, and received a
vote of thanks for his good services while in that office it appeared
that Stephen Codman Esq. was chosen an overseer of the poor
for the year ensuing.
The petition of a number of inhabitants for widening the Street
from Common Street to the new State house was read, and after
large debate
Voted that said petition be referred for further consideration
to the adjournment of this meeting, and that the Selectmen be
requested that previous to said adjournment they view the same,
consider the expence that will attend the proposed alteration of
the Street and report their opinion on the Subject
The article in the warrant viz " To act upon the report of the
Selectmen respecting the improvement and disposal of the Towns
land on the neck" read, whereupon Voted that this matter be
referred for the further consideration of the Selectmen, and that
the following Gentlemen be added to that Committee Viz
the Honp:e. Thomas Dawes Esq
George R Minot Esq
Joseph Russell Esq
Thomas Edwards Esq
[177.] Benjamin Austin Jun Esq
Mr. Elisha Sigourney
Samuel Brown Esq
and they are requested to consider this matter at large and report
thereon at the adjournment.
The petition relative to a new street near Beacon Hill, was
read whereupon, Voted that this matter be referred to the
Gentlemen Selectmen to report thereon
Messrs. Tilden Fellowes & Sturgis letters purporting their
resignation as representatives received and read to the Inhabi-
tants.
The committee relative to Town By-laws reported a number of
By laws, and the further consideration of the same was referred
to the adjournment
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1801. 105
Then the town meeting was (relative to Representatives) ad-
journed to Friday next being the 15 inst 10 °Clock A M. And
the May meeting to Friday next at 1 °Clock being the 15 instant.
On Friday 10 °Clock AM the Town met according to adjourn-
ment, The Selectmen presided.
The letters of Messrs. Tilden Sturgis and Fell owes purporting
their resignation as Representatives as also their joint letter pur-
porting their acceptance of that trust were read and after debate
thereon Joseph Russell Esq. moved and was seconded by Dr.
Jarvis that this meeting be dissolved, and the question being
accordingly put passed in the affirmative almost unanimously and
the meeting was then dissolved.
On Friday May 15, 1801 at one oClock PM the Town met
Thomas Dawes Esq. in the seat
The Board of Health a Committee on Mr. Pratts Petition rela-
tive to a Fish Stall over Mill Creek, reported, and their report
was referred over for consideration to the adjournment of this
meeting
[178.] Adjourned to Friday next being the 22d. instant at
eleven oclock A M.
Friday May 22 the Town met according to adjournment
The report of the Committee on the petition of James Pratt
read and accepted
The report of the Committee relative to widening Centre Street,
read : and after some debate the question was put viz " Whether
said report shall be accepted " which passed in the affirmative.
The report of the joint Committee relative to the lands on the
Neck with respect to their improvement and disposal, was read
and considered, and the question being put viz whether the same
shall be accepted — it passed in the affirmative and on motion
Voted that 12 °Clock be the time appointed to come to the choice
of six Agents agreeable to the report of said Committee, — the
time arriving and the votes having been brought in and counted
it appeared that
The Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq
George Richard Minot Esq
John Winslow Esq
William Tudor Esq
Deacon William Brown
Mr. Josiah Knapp
were the persons added to the Selectmen who conjunctly are to
lease and manage said lands in such a manner as shall appear to
them for the interest of the Town
106
CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The report of the Committee on the petition for a new Street
near Beacon Hill was read and accepted
The petition of Mr. Edward Howe that a deed may be given
him &c was read, and on motion the petitioner has leave to with-
draw his petition.
The committee on Town Treasurers accompts &c Report
The selectmens drafts amount to -
Overseers of the poor
Board of Health - --
Total from May 1800 to May 1801—
The Treasurer charges money paid S Brown for |
new Almshouse j
Counterfits Receivd for Taxes ......
[179.] Amount of abatements on Assessors certifi-
cates ---------------
Ditto for ditto James Thompsons Estate - - - -
Amount of Andrew Tukesburys account - - - -
Interest paid from December 1795 to March 1801
New account for ballance
41,257.99
15499.74
4731.52
61489.25
1500.
20.
3224.73
559.50
228.91
6099.23
21601.90
94723.57
27450.36
4610.73
143.13
235.10
5.
1.
110.
1.50
11.50
500.
169.
1487.25
- - - 60000.
94723.57
The Treasurer also exhibits a trial Balance
The Treasurer gives credit by balance of old a/c -
By cash received for States poor
By cash of Hopestill Foster for hay engine paym*.
By cash of William Gooch for Market 4 paymts. -
By Samuel Hastings
By G R Minot
By Charles Bulfinch
By error in July draft
By O Ballard
By A Tukesbury three years Rent
By T W Folsom
By amount of Rents -----
By amount of Tax
and charges Powder
Andrew Tukesbury
Benja. Henderson
Thomas Bayley
Benja Jepson
Estate I Thompson
C Marshall 2338.78
13905.29
1041.94.5
290.25
10010.77
17763.59
21966.73
1316.78
16244. 7
59064.35.5
Cr. Notes payble 29962.15.3
Estate of John Gray 107.
Board Healths draft 733.53
Town of Boston 21600.90
Overseers drafts 1442.35
Selectmens d° 5217.46
$59064.35.5
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1801. 107
Amount of Notes due from Town of Boston to Union Bank
To E Price £220.15.4 22000.
B Barker - - - - 463.5
E Partridge 231.12.6
S Atkins .... 300.
Selectmen Boston 369.
Cloughs note 4.
Estate of B Waldo 800.
2388.12.10 equal to - - - 7962.13
$29962.13
The particulars of the aforegoing Statement are in the several
accounts annexed to which a reference may be had, all which
[18O] appears to be well vouched and well cast. It is pre-
sumed that the hay engine and the Stalls outside the Market will
be much more productive the present year than the last. And
that several articles of charge will not be called for the coming
year by the board of Selectmen. Also the expences of the Board
of Health will be considerably less the ensuing year. The Com-
mittee after taking many circumstances of the Town into consid-
eration and as connected with the county of Suffolk recommend a
tax to be laid for Sixty thousand dollars. — all which is
respectfully submitted
Thomas Dawes ) -, ., ,
u r> 11 r Committee
Joseph Russell j
The aforegoing report having been read and considered the
same was accepted, whereupon
Voted that the sum of Sixty thousand dollars be raised by a tax
to be assessed on the Polls and Estates of the Inhabitants of the
town to defray the expences of the current year.
Voted that the sum of Six hundred & sixty dollars be allowed
and paid unto Samuel Clap Esq. for his services as Town Treas-
urer the present year, and the same to be paid him quarterly as it
shall become due, and to commence the first of last March.
Voted that the sum of Six hundred & sixty six dollars be
allowed and paid unto William Cooper for his services as Town
Clerk the present year the same to be paid him quarterly as it
shall become due and to commence the first of March last.
Voted that the sum of Four hundred & thirty three dol-
lars be allowed and paid unto each of the Assessors for their
respective services the present year, the same to be paid them
quarterly as it shall become due and to commence the first of
March last.
108 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Voted that the further sum of One hundred dollars be allowed
and paid to each of the Assessors in the manner aforesaid in
consideration of the rise of provisions.
Voted that the Town treasurer be authorized and empowered
to borrow on lawful interest for the use of the Board of Health as
there may be occasion a sum not exceeding 3000 dollars
[181.] Voted that the Town Treasurer be authorized and
empowered to borrow on lawful interest for the use of the Select-
men as there may be occasion a sum not exceeding two thousand
dollars
On motion voted that the thanks of the town be and hereby are
given the Board of Health for their eminent service in the dis-
charge of the duties of their office the last year.
Voted that in addition to the former allowance of two hundred
dollars made the Town advocate John Phillips Esq. for his service
he be further allowed the sum of One hundred dollars.
Mr. Howes Petition was read, and after some debate a motion
obtained that he have leave to withdraw his petition.
The Selectmen in conjunction with the Committee appointed
to take into consideration the report of the Selectmen respecting
the improvement and disposal of the Towns land on the Neck "
take leave to report.
That they have attended to the business committed to them ;
that they are forcibly struck with the importance and value
of those lands and the propriety of making an attempt to render
them productive
That they are equally impressed with the justness of the remark
made by the Selectmen with respect to what has been and what
may be done respecting them ; and in order to bring the subject
before the town in an intelligent and concise form they recom-
mend that the land be laid out in streets and lots at the discretion
of the Trustees herein after referred to as nearly as may be
according to the plan exhibited by the Selectmen
That Trustees be appointed to manage and lease the said lands
in such manner as shall appear to them best for the interest of
the town
That the Trustees be the Selectmen for the time being and six
such other persons as the Town may choose to be added to them
at their annual meeting in May.
That until the further or other order of the town the income of
the leases of the land be appropriated to the improvement of the
same.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1801. 109
That the Trustees be and hereby are impowered in the name
and behalf of the town to make and execute Leases of the same
lands in such portions or lots as [182] to them shall appear
best for any number of years not exceeding ninety nine, which
Report is respectfully submitted
By order of the joint Committee
Cha". Bulflnch Chairman
A statement of the Expences of the town the last year was laid
before the Inhabitants by the Selectmen for their inspection ; and
by them ordered to be printed, more fully to answer the purpose
— Then adjourned to 4 °Clock P M.
The town met agreeably to adjournment at Four oClock P M.
The committee appointed to consider the expediency of a
revision and new edition of the By laws of the town Report,
that in their opinion amendments in several of the By laws are
necessary and others of them ought to be repeated, [repealed?]
that the present edition contains several laws of the Common-
wealth which are repealed, some that are obsolete or not so par-
ticularly applicable to this town as to make them useful in a
selection for the inhabitants ; and that sundry late laws made by
the General Court ought to be added together with the regula-
tions of the Board of Health
That it is expedient a new edition improved on the aforegoing
plan should be published ; and with respect to the arrangement
the Committee think it would be best to permit the By-laws in the
first part of the work, and the laws of this Commonwealth im-
mediately respecting the Town in an appendix ; the whole to be
accompanied with an accurate index,
They therefore report drafts of the following Laws and recom-
mend that all other By laws of the town now in force be repealed,
Viz
1 a law to prevent nuisances in the Streets,
2 a law respecting the conduct of persons in the Streets,
3 a law to prevent brick & Lime kilns &c
4 a law to prevent nuisances in the Common
5 a law regulating Chimnies & Sweepers
6 a law regulating carts trucks & Sleds
7 a law to regulate stands of Carts trucks & Sleds
8 a law to regulate the driving of horses & carriages
9 a Law relating to Bulls & Cows —
[183.] 10 a law regulating Funerals
11 a law regulating necessaries
12 a law regulating pumps & wells
13 a law regulating common criers
14 a law imposing restrictions on Dogs
15 a Law prohibiting forestalling & engrossing Provisions
110 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
16 a Law regulating the carrying of Manure
17 a Law making general regulations
18 a Law respecting Officers appointed by the Selectmen; all
which is respectfully submitted by the Committee
George Richards Minot Chairman.
The laws aforementioned were read and some amendments
being made they were separately voted to be accepted as by the
connected Copies on file, it was then Voted that the Committee
who revised the aforegoing Laws be desired to present them to
the Court of Sessions for their approbation also
Voted that the Selectmen be desired to cause a sufficient num-
ber of the laws to be printed and distributed to every House-
holder and that in the Arrangement they adopt the mode pointed
out by the Committee
Voted that any matters and things unfinished at this meeting
be referred over to the next general town meeting that shah1 be
called.
Voted that the thanks of the Town be and hereby are given to
the Honble Thomas Dawes Esq. the Moderator of this meeting for
his good services in the dispatch given the business which came
before them.
Then the Meeting was Dissolved
[184.] At a meeting of the Freeholders and other inhabi-
tants of the town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in
public town meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Saturday the
4th day of July A D 1801 9 oClock AM.
"Warrant for calling the meeting Read.
William Cooper chosen Moderator
The committee appointed the last year to make choice of a
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the Anniversary of Independ-
ence Reported that they had made choice of Charles Paine
Esq. who has accepted the appointmnnt.
On motion adjourned to Old South Church when agreeable to
information of the Selectmen, an
ORATION
to commemorate the Independence of the United States was
delivered by Charles Pain.e Esq at the Old South Church
On motion voted that the Selectmen be a Committee to wait on
Charles Paine Esq and in the name of the Town to thank him for
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1801. Ill
the elegant and spirited Oration this day delivered by him at the
request of the Town upon the Anniversary of the Independence
of the United States of America ; in which according to the insti-
tution of the town he considered the feelings manners & princi-
ples which led to that great national event and to request of
him a copy thereof for the press
On motion Voted that the Gentlemen Selectmen be and hereby
are appointed a Committee to apply to some one able and learned
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the fourth of July A D
1802, that day being the Anniversary of the Independence of
the United States of America wherein the Orator is to consider
the feelings manners & principles which led to this great national
event; as well as the important & [185] happy effects whether
general or domestic which have already or will forever flow from
that auspicious epoch
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
At a meeting of the Freeholders & other inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public
town meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the 318t
day of December Anno Domini 1801. ten oclock Forenoon —
Warrant for calling the Meeting
Honble Thomas Dawes Esq chosen Moderator by a hand [vote]
unanimously —
That part of the article in the warrant viz. " To receive the
accounts of the Agents for erecting the new almshouse, and the
accounts of the Treasurer of monies borrowed for the same
House ; and to consider and adopt measures to discharge the
balance that may be due," was read, whereupon
Voted, that Honblc. John C. Jones Esq.
Cap1. James Prince
Honble. Benja. Austin Jun Esq.
Samuel Parkman Esq.
Honble. Thomas Davis Esq.
be a committee to audit the accounts of the Agents for building
the new almshouse to consider the compensation that may be
proper to be allowed for their time and good services in directing
and superintending the building — Also that the said Committee
be directed to report what in their opinion would be the most eli-
gible mode of raising a sufficient sum to discharge the balance as
soon as possible.
The petition of a number of the Inhabitants that the Town
would take legal and efficacious measures to discover and remove
112 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
vagrants and Strangers of suspicious characters who have no
regular employment, and to prevent the introduction [186] of
such persons in future, to come in to some permanent regulations
of watches or patroles to preserve the Town from incendiaries,
to adopt measures more effectually to guard against fires and
generally to do what may be thought necessary for the security of
the town" was read, and after some debate
Voted that Honble. James Sullivan
Honble. John Codman, Esquires
Cap*. James Prince
George Blake Esq'
Honble. Judge Bourne
Arnold Welles Esq
Nath1. Fellowes Esq
be a Committee to take this matter into consideration and report
at the adjournment of this meeting
Then the meeting was adjourned to Monday the eleventh day
of January next 10 oClock Forenoon.
1802.
On Monday, eleventh day of January 1802 at ten o'clock Fore-
noon the Town met according to adjournment.
The committee relative to New Almshouse Report.
First, That having caused the accounts of the Agents to be
carefully examined, they find them well vouched, rightly cast, and
a balance due them from the town of 23,533.32
2d. Your Committee are of opinion that the Town
should allow the Agents for their time & services in
directing & superintending the buildings the sum of - 2400
$25933.32
This will leave a balance due the Agent's ) Dollars
to be provided for [of] j 25933.32
3d. Your committee recommend that the Town Treasurer be
directed and empowered to borrow on the credit of the town, of
any corporate body or Individuals disposed to loan the same on
interest not exceeding that paid at the Banks the sum of Twenty
six thousand dollars for the purpose of discharging the balance
due to the Agents and in consideration of their services, and that
the same with the interest that may be due together with the
further sum of Twenty thousand dollars already borrowed by
the [187] Town of the Union Bank to discharge the drafts of
the Agents and the interest that has or may accrue thereon be
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1802. 113
assessed on the Inhabitants of the town by two yearly assess-
ments to commence with the next yearly town tax and to be
expressly applied to the repayment of the monies so borrowed,
said tax to be separately mentioned in the tax bills by itself the
proceeds to be sacredly appropriated to this purpose and to be
paid over by the Treasurer to this & no other use
4th. The Committee having viewed the Almshouse & its append-
ages conceive it to be their duty to state to the Town that in their
opinion the Agency has been executed with fidelity and judgment
highly honorable to the Gentlemen engaged therein, and they
propose
That the thanks of the Town be given to the Honble. Thomas
Dawes Esq & Samuel Brown Esq the surviving Agents employed
in directing and superintending the building of the Almshouse ;
for the able and masterly manner in which they (together with
the late Honble. George Richards Minot Esq also one of the
Agents deceased) have discharged the important trust reposed in
them by their Fellow Citizens
The above Report having been read and amended in meeting
Voted that the same be accepted, also Voted unanimously that
the aforegoing vote of Thanks be published in the several papers
from said Report
The Report of the Committee on the other part of the warrant
was read, and after large debate had thereon it was moved and
Voted that said Report be printed in hand bills and sent to the
houses of the Inhabitants for further inspection & consideration
— before the adjournment of this meeting also
Voted that the Selectmen & Overseers of the Poor and Com-
mittee that erected the almshouse, be requested to enquire and
report at the adjournment whether any part of the Almshouse
and if any what part can be fitted for the use of a workhouse and
what the expence of the same will probably be as well as the
expence of providing an apparatus materials and implements to
employ People who may be sent there, and to report at large on
the subject of a Workhouse in that or in any other place
[188.] This meeting was then adjourned to Thursday 21 at
10 °Clock AM
Thursday Jany 21 at 10 oclock AM met according to adjournment
The printed Report of the Committees relative to fires, vagrants
&c was read to the Inhabitants
The committee to enquire if any and what part of the new
almshouse can be fitted for the use of a Workhouse, Report, that
they have visited and carefully viewed the Almshouse and find
114 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
three rooms distinguished as a Bridewell and work room for such
as are committed as Vagrants & proper subjects of a work house
and other apartments might at present be spared for this purpose
— those rooms are perfectly dry well warmed and ventilated but
they are not separate from other parts of the house nor suffi-
ciently strong to be considered as places of safekeeping Your
Committee are of opinion that no division of the Almshouse can
be set apart as a House of correction without greatly incommod-
ing the poor and incurring a heavy expence to render it secure
by additional Brick walls and Partitions iron gates and strong
doors to prevent the vicious and depraved from associating with
the objects of charity Your Committee would not recommend so
great an alteration in the present house as would be necessary
for these purposes which would afford but a temporary accommo-
dation for should the number of the Poor increase with the
natural increase of the Town, the whole of the Almshouse would
be wanted for their use
In reporting at large on the subject of a House of Correction
as directed by the latter part of their commission, your Committee
are of opinion that an establishment of this kind would be pro-
ductive of the most beneficial effects to the Town
For this purpose it will be necessary to have a separate build-
ing suitably constructed upon principles of strength and security
enclosed with proper walls and under the direction of a watchful
Inspector & Assistant. Workrooms, lodging rooms and solitary
cells for the confinement of the unruly should be provided and
a constant supply of coarse articles of labour. From the experi-
ence of other places your Committee have no doubt that such a
house would maintain itself after being endowed [189] with a
moderate Capital for the supply of raw materials and the neces-
sary stock in hand — the objects of employment which occur to
the Committee are the picking of Oakum the grinding of Logwood
and other dye woods, the hammering of stone for the under-
pinning of houses and flagging of the foot walks of Streets,
grinding corn for the use of the house and any other coarse
mill work.
The Committee are so fully impressed with the importance of such
an establishment in every well regulated Capital Town that they
would immediately propose that measures should be taken for
erecting such a building, were they not sensible of the burden
that the town now labour under to discharge the balance due
upon the Almshouse.
No correct estimate can be made of the expence of such a
building and of the apparatus materials and implements to em-
ploy those who may be sent there, but it is presumed that it
must be twenty or thirty thousand dollars.
Your Committee would respectfully suggest that the attention
of the Legislature is now turned to the subject of a State Prison
and it is probable that they will direct it to be built immediately ;
that the building of this Prison will deter persons of depraved
Characters from resorting to this town, and that a number who
BOSTON* TOWN RECORDS, 1802. 115
are now in the Jail will be removed thereto — The Committee
therefore propose that until the Town shall have discharged its
present debt, the magistrates and Overseers of the Poor shall
continue to make use of this Jail and such part of the Almshouse
as can be spared for a workhouse and House of correction, that
they be requested to procure materials for work that the persons
sent there may be constantly employed, and to have a few soli-
tary cells, constructed for the confinement of the refractory &
unruly
by Order Charles Bulfinch, Chairm.
The aforegoing Report having been read & duly considered, was
accepted by the Town almost unanimously.
The printed Report relative to Fires, Vagrants &c was again
read, and after debate had thereon the following votes were
passed almost unanimously viz :
Voted That there be immediately appointed by the Selectmen,
one person in each ward, for the purpose of obtaining [19O]
and returning to the Selectmen weekly the names & circum-
stances of all persons within the same, not being proper Inhabi-
tants of the Town and who have no visible, reputable means of
gaining a livelihood, and are not House holders within the Town,
and of all such as belong to other towns States and Countries,
having no fixed reputable manner of business.
Voted that the Selectmen, Overseers of the poor and Magistrates
in the town be requested to be exact and vigilant in executing
the laws authorizing the removal of persons whose characters are
suspicious, whose morals are bad, who have no settled reputable
means for a livelihood, and who by the laws are liable to be
removed from the town or State.
Voted that the overseers of the poor and magistrates be requested
to exert themselves to have the laws for committing idle, vagrant
persons to the Workhouse, house of correction or common Jail, as
the law may direct carried into full execution and in which they
shall have every needed aid from the inhabitants of the Town.
Voted that the Town adopt the method reported by the Com-
mittee for the appointment of watches and request the Selectmen
and magistrates to have the same carried into execution, and that
the wages of the Captains & Assistants be settled by the Select-
men, and that the Selectmen be requested to take effectual meas-
ures, by the construction of the watch houses and otherwise that
the intentions of the town be not defeated by a want of attention
or vigilance in the watches
Voted that the Representatives of the town be instructed to
obtain a revision of the laws in regard to the introduction of For-
116 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
eigners and to have the same so amended as that they shall be
competent to prevent Foreigners of idle immoral & dissolute char-
acter from being brought to the Town from other Countries.
That the Representatives use their endeavour to obtain an altera-
tion in the law respecting the appointment of watches so far as
that the Selectmen of Boston shall have the same power in that
respect as the Justices of the peace and the Selectmen together
have now ; That the Town Clerk deliver the Representatives a copy
of this vote as soon as may be.
[191.] Voted that the Selectmen by their Superintendent or
otherwise constantly enquire and obse'rve in every part of the
Town where there may be any collection of shavings, or other
combustibles to the danger and nuisances of the Town and cause
the Attorney General or the Town attorney to have information
thereof, that prosecutions may commence thereon.
Voted that one person for each ward, be now appointed for the
purpose of organizing a voluntary patrole of the inhabitants dur-
ing such time as they shall judge expedient, when the following
persons were chosen Viz.
Capt John Bray Ward N° 1
Col° Rob*. Gardner 2
Thomas Lewis 3
Josiah Vose 4
Cap*. Mitchell Lincoln 5
Isaiah Doane 6
Cap*. Sam1. Prince 7
David Bradlee Esq 8
Arnold Welles Jr Esq 9
Gen1. John Winslow 10
Cap1. Messinger 11
Col°. Amasa Davis 12
It was then voted that should either of the above Gentlemen
decline or from any cause be unable to accept the above appoint-
ment the Selectmen are desired to fill such vacancy.
Voted that the thanks of the town be given the Moderator for
his good services in that station
Then the meeting was Dissolved.
[193.] At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned
in public town meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the
first day of March Anno Domini 1802 at 10 °Clock AM
Warrant for calling the meeting ... Read
David Tilden Esq.
was chosen Moderator by a hand vote
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1802. 11 7
The article in the Warrant relative to the list of qualified
voters for Governor &c &c was read and considered, whereupon
Voted that a Committee of three persons be chosen for each
Ward to revise correct and complete the list of qualified Voters
in their respective wards who are to report the same to the
Selectmen, and the following persons were accordingly chosen for
said purpose viz*.
Messrs. Josiah Snelling Joseph Callender & Cap'. Jn° Bray for
ward N° 1 — Mess John Truman, Rt Gardner & Cap*. Jacob
Rhoades N° 2. Mess Joseph Smith Edward Edes & Col° Proctor
N° 3. Mess Joseph Kettel Josiah Vose and John Wells N° 4 Mess
Richard Hewes, Mitchell Lincoln, and Samuel Sturgis N° 5, J.n°
Coffin Jones Esq. Samuel Whitwell and Samuel Snelling N° 6,
Samuel Parkman Esq. Sam1. Sumner & Benja. Austin Esq. N° 7 —
William Smith Esq. Cap*. John Brazier and Edward Gray Esq.
N° 8, Benja Russell Esq. John Fox & Arnold Welles Esq. N°
9, General Winslow George Blanchard and Deacon Wright N° 10
Col°. Waters Henry Vose and Benja. Fessenden N° 11, Deacon
Brown Cap*. Messenger and Amasa Davis Esq. N° 12 Also Voted
that so soon as corrected lists are reported to [193] the Select-
men 1800 thereof shall be printed, making 150 for each ward.
The article in the warrant viz " to consider the expediency of
appointing Agents with powers to choose Referrees in concurrence
with the Legislature for the final adjustment of the claims of the
State and town to the Old town house " was read and considered
whereupon Voted that the Board of Selectmen viz Charles Bulfinch
David Tilden Russell Sturgis Esq. Cap*. Joseph Howard Mr.
William Porter, William Sherburne Esq. Mr. John Tileston Mr.
Ebenr. Oliver Mr. Jonathan Hunnewell together with William
Cooper ihe Town Clerk be and hereby are appointed a Committee
with full powers for the purposes mentioned in said warrant.
Then the meeting was dissolved.
At a meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants of the
town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public town
meeting assembled at Faneuil hall on Monday the eighth day of
March Anno Domini 1802 at nine oClock AM —
Prayer was made by Revd. Mr. Topkins
Warrant for calling a meeting - - Read
Sundry laws to be read at this meeting were accordingly Read.
Joseph Russell Esq. was chosen Moderator by a hand vote.
118 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The inhabitants were directed to' withdraw and bring in their
votes for Town Clerk, and the same having been brought in and
counted it appeared that
William Cooper Esq.
was chosen town Clerk for the year ensuing, and the oath of
office was administered by Mr. Justice Bulfinch.
[194.] The inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring
in their votes for nine Selectmen ; the same being brought in
and assorted it appeared that the following Gentlemen were
chosen viz
Charles Bulfinch Esq William Sherburne Esq
David Tilden Esq Mr. John Tileston
Russell Sturgis Esq Mr. Ebe'nr. Oliver
Cap*. Joseph Howard Mr. Jonathan Hunnewell
Mr. William Porter
The meeting was then adjourned to three oclock PM.
The town met at three oclock P M according to adjournment
The votes being brought in for twelve Overseers of the poor, it
appeared that
Edward Proctor Esq Mr. Oliver Brewster
Mr. Edward Edes Dr, Redford Webster
Henry Hill Esq Thomas Perkins Esq
William Smith Esq Stephen Codman Esq
William Phillips Esq Mr. Samuel Snelling
Stephen Gorham Esq Mr. Benja. Goddard
were chosen Overseers of the Poor for the year ensuing
On motion voted that the thanks of the town be given to the
Honble. Jona. Loring Austin Esq for his good services as an
overseer of the poor for eighteen years past
The inhabitants brought in their votes for twenty four fire
wards when it appeared that
Thomas Melvill Esq Mr. Joseph Head
Mr. Edward Edes Thomas H Perkins Esq
Amasa Davis Esq John Winslow Esq
[195.] Samuel Parkman Esq Cap* Joseph Howard
Russell Sturgis Esq. Mr Benjamin Joy
Henry Jackson Esq Stephen Codman Esq
William Scollay Esq Andrew Cunningham Esq
Joseph May Esq Mr. John Bray
Cap*. Robert Gardner Mr. Thomas Dennie
John May Esq General Elliot
William Brown Esq Mr. Gorham Parsons
Samuel Bradford Esq Rufus G. Amory Esq
were chosen Firewards for the year ensuing.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1802. 119
Russell Sturgis Esq & Mr. Gorham Parsons declined serving as
firewards, and were accordingly excused
Voted that in addition to the Selectmen, twelve persons shall
now be chosen as a school committee, and the votes being
brought in and counted it appeared that the following Gentlemen
were chosen viz
Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq William Smith Esq
Revd. Sam1. West DD Arnold Welles Junr. Esq
Dr. Thomas Welch Edward Gray Esq
Revd. Joseph Eckley DD David Greene Esq
Revd. J T Kirkland Josiah Quincy Esq
Dr. Aaron Dexter Revd. William Ernmerson
[196.] The Revd. Samuel West declined being one of the
School Committee
Voted that the above named Gentlemen who conjunctly with
the Selectmen are termed the School committee be and hereby are
directed to carry the new system of education which has been
adopted by the town into operation, and said committee are also
authorized and empowered conjunctly to manage and regulate the
officers and the Government of the Schools, and in fine to execute
all the power relating to the schools and School-masters, which
the Selectmen of such Committees, were authorized by the laws
of this Commonwealth or the votes of the town to exercise ; any
former vote of the Town to the contrary notwithstanding.
On motion voted that the choice of Town Treasurer, County
Treasurer, collectors of Taxes and assessors be referred over to
the adjournment, also voted that
Deacon Brown Joseph Russell Esq
General Winslow Thomas H Perkins Esq
Nath1. Fellowes Esq Samuel Brown Esq
Amasa Davis Esq Russell Sturgis Esq
be a committee to consider the propriety of choosing the same
person as Treasurer of the Town and Treasurer of the County
also the subject of the assessment and collection of taxes,
and to devise such methods therein as in their judgment may be
for the interest and advantage of the town, And said Committee
are empowered to view the books of the assessors, Collectors and
Town Treasurer; also to apply to the Court of sessions for
liberty to view the books of the County Treasurer, to report at
the adjournment.
On motion voted that
Honble. Judge Sullivan Honble. H. G. Otis Esq
Honble. Benja. Austin Junr. Edward Gray Esq
Benja. Russell Esq
120 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
be a Committee to consider what number of Constables may be
necessary to be chosen and to report at the adjournment.
[197.] Messrs. Benjamin White Daniel Ingersoll Jr.
Moses Ayres William Darricott
were chosen Fence viewers for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Barney Connor
William Wheeler
were chosen Hogreeves for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Barney Connor
William Wheeler
were chosen Haywards, for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Jeffrey Richardson
Samuel Emmes
were chosen surveyors of Hemp for the year ensuing
Edward Tuckerman Esq.
Mr. Edward Edes
were chosen surveyors of wheat for the year ensuing.
Messrs. John Wells
William Cooper Hunneman
were chosen assaymasters for the year ensuing
Messrs. Roger Bartlett
Jonathan Gushing
were chosen cullers of dry fish for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Henry Purkett. Thomas Barber
Lemuel Gardner James Eunson
were chosen cullers of Hoops & Staves for the year ensuing.
The Selectmen
were chosen surveyors of Highways for the year ensuing.
Mr. Edward Rumney
was chosen inspector of stone lime for the year ensuing.
Votes for twelve surveyors of boards and shingles were
brought in it appeared on assorting them that but ten were
chosen
Viz. Messrs. Joshua Bentley William Clouston
Benja. White William Darricot
Benja. Page William Ellison
James Blake James Robins
[198.] John Cogswell Daniel Ingersol Junr.
The votes being brought in for a town advocate for the munici-
pal court it appeared that John Phillips Esq. was chosen
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1802. 121
Voted that the consideration of all money matters be referred
to next May meeting
Voted the Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq
Joseph Russell Esq
Sam1. Brown Esq.
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to audit the accompts
of the Town Treasurer, and also the accompts of the Selectmen
Overseers of the Poor and Board of Health, and said Committee
are also directed to report the sum necessary to be raised for the
services of the present year.
The consideration relative to [the] Article in [the] warrant re-
specting the Treasurers issuing small notes or due bills referred to
the Auditors of accounts to report at May meeting
The article in warrant relative to Cobb and Hartshorne as to
exchange of land &c read whereupon
Voted that the Selectmen be and hereby [are] authorized and
impowered to make such an agreement as shall appear to them to
be for the advantage of the Town
The application of Isaac P. Davis that the Town would sell
him a small piece of land &c was read, whereupon
Voted that the Selectmen be and hereby are authorized and
impowered to make sale of the land in Pleasant Street, applied
for by Mr. Davis, provided they can do it on such terms as they
shall think for the interest of the town
The meeting was then adjourned to Wednesday the seventeenth
day of March instant at ten oclock AM.
[199.] Wednesday March 17, 10 °Clock AM, the Town
met according to adjournment.
The committee to consider what number of Constables may be
necessary to be chosen having reported, and said report accepted
by the town, the votes were accordingly brought in for eight Con-
stables when it appeared that
Messrs. Elisha Copeland Thomas Stevenson
Solomon Twist Amos Lewis
Henry Lane Samuel White
Moses Thayer Jirah Holbrook
were chosen Constables for the year ensuing
The Committee appointed to consider the expediency of unit-
ing the office of town treasurer and County Treasurer in one per-
son, and to devise a more correct and economical mode for
122 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
assessing and collecting the tax of the town of Boston, having
attended and considered the duties to which they are appointed
beg leave to report,
That the office of Town Treasurer and the office of County
Treasurer for the present year be vested in separate persons —
second, That it be recommended to the Inhabitants to choose the
Town Treasurer Collector for the town
third, That the Assessors of the Town of Boston shall for the
present year consist of three persons to be paid by the town for
their services hereafter named, and that they hold no other office
of profit in the town of Boston, and
fourth, that in each ward the voters shall annually assemble on
the first Wednesday of April and then choose and appoint two
persons in each of their respective wards to assist the town asses-
sors in taking a list of the polls, in estimating the value of their
personal property, in appraising the value of all real estates in
their own wards, to assist the Town assessors in taking a list of
the Polls, in estimating the value of their personal property, in
appraising the value of all real estates in their own wards ; and
the twenty four persons thus chosen in the respective wards shall
meet & nominate for the approbation of the town three persons
whom they shall judge best qualified to serve the town in the
office of assessors [2OO] the ensuing year, and the two assist-
ants chosen for each ward as their service, though important, will
be of short duration are not to be allowed any pecuniary com-
pensation.
fifth, that the Gentlemen Selectmen be requested to publish &
notify the respective wards to choose and appoint those assist-
ants to the town assessors when they choose their members of
the Board of Health on the day above mentioned ; and in case of
death or resignation the Chairman be directed to call a meeting
in either Ward.
sixth, That when the list and inventory is taken as before men-
tioned, the Assessors shall then make a fair schedule in a book of
all the real estate, its situation and appraised value, of the Polls
rateable and not rateable, the returns or estimated value of per-
sonal property — And the assessors shall give notice that their
books are open at their office for the free examination of all whom
they have taxed, that the inhabitants in thirty days may receive
or communicate information, or apply for alteration in the esti-
mated value of their personal property in such manner as the
Law directs, the inventory of polls and personal property shall
be taken annually, and if alterations in the schedule of Real
estates shall appear necessary it shall at the same time be
attended to
seventh, When the tax is completed, the assessors shall fill up &
distribute printed tax bills to all whom they have taxed, at the
foot of which bills shall be printed the deductions for prompt
payments as hereafter is provided
eighth, It shall be the duty of the Town Treasurer in his addi-
tional office as collector to receive the tax and discharge the Tax
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1802. 123
bill of all persons who shall apply to him at his office and make
payment — and for those who shall pay him within 30 days from
the date of his tax bill, he shall deduct 5 per cent, for those who
pay him within 60 days, 3 per cent, for those who pay him with-
in 120 days, 2 per cent from the amount of their tax bills
ninth, The Collector shall distrain upon the property or person of
those who are delinquent after the expiration of six months as
the law directs
tenth, the Assessors and Collectors shall once in a year on or
before the first day of March make return to the Selectmen of
[2O1] all abatements, delinquents, and the amount of Tax not
collected
And your Committee recommend that the town choose and
appoint a Committee to apply to the General Court at their next
session, and that the Representatives be the Committee to apply
to the next General Court under the direction of the Selectmen
for the purpose of making such law as may be required to carry
the above votes into effect if any should be found necessary
The aforegoing report having been read and amended by
Paragraphs, the question was then put — Whether said Report
shall be accepted by the Town as thus amended when it passed in
the affirmative almost unanimously
Adjourned to three oclock P M. —
At 3 °Clock P.M. Town met according to adjournm4.
Samuel Clap Esq.
was chosen Town Treasurer for the year ensuing.
Samuel Clap Esq
was chosen Town Collector for the year ensuing.
Votes were brought in for two Surveyors of Boards twice and
there being a [no?] choice this business was referred to the
adjournment.
Votes for a Treasurer for the County of Suffolk were brought
in and counted by the Moderator and Town Clerk, when it ap-
peared that the whole number was 279 all of which for Ebenezer
Seaver Esq ; a discreet and suitable person, and a Freeholder and
Resident in said County.
Messrs Jonathan Hunnewell
Daniel Messenger
were chosen Firewards for the year ensuing.
Voted that the thanks of the town be given to Nathaniel Fel-
lows & Russell Sturgis Esqrs. and Mr. Gorham Parsons for their
good services as Firewards a number of years past
124 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The further consideration of the report of the Committee rela-
tive to the Town Treasurer issuing small notes &c was referred
to May meeting
Adjourned to Wednesday the 21 April next, at ten oclock
AM. —
At a meeting of the male inhabitants of the town of
Boston of twenty one years of age and upwards qualified as the
constitution prescribes and legally warned in public town meeting
assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the fifth day of April
Anno Domini 1802, 11 ° Clock AM
Prayer was made by the Revd. Mr. Haskeli
Warrant for calling the meeting - - - Read
Paragraph of the Constitution or frame of Government relative
to the choice of Governor and IA Governor and Senators Read
It was then declared by the Selectmen that no vote should be
received but such as were unfolded, and that they propose the
polls should be closed at three oclock PM the votes to be received
at the Table and the bells to begin tolling at half past two oclock
The selectmen acquainted the town with the method they had
adopted to carry the new law into effect
[2O3.] Persons voted for as Governor with the number of
votes for each person Viz
Votes
Honble. Caleb Strong Esq. 2372
Honble. Elbridge Gerry Esq. 1498
Persons voted for as IA Governor with the number of votes for
each person Viz
Honble. William Heath Esq. 1495
Honble. Edward H Robbins Esq. 2369
Persons voted for for Senators for the County of Suffolk, with
the number of votes for each person Viz*.
Honble. Oliver Wendall Esq. 2375
Honbl". William Tudor Esq. 2373
Honble. James Bowdoin Esq. 1497
Honble. Benja. Austin Junr. Esq. 1498
Honble. Peleg Coffin Esq. 2375
JohnQ. Adams Esq. 2373
Nath1. Fellowes Esq. 1495
David Tilden Esq. 1495
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1802. 125
Attested Copies of Persons voted for as Governor IA Governor
and Senators for the County of Suffolk were sealed up in Town
meeting, after the votes had been declared to the Town attested
copies of them were that evening delivered to the Secretary of
this Commonwealth by the Town Clerk, superscribed as follows
For John Avery Esq
Secy. of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The number of votes of the Town of Boston for Governor L*.
Governor and four Senators for the County of Suffolk certified
within and sealed up in town meeting
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[3O4.] Wednesday April 21. 1802 at 10 oclock AM. the
Town met according to adjournment
Revd. Mr. West having declined serving as one of the School
Committee, it was moved and voted that the thanks of the Town
be and are hereby given to Revd. Doct Samuel West for his good
services as one of the School committee for a number of years
past
Votes being brought in for two Surveyors of boards and
shingles it appeared that
Mess John Butterfield
Samuel Treat
were chosen surveyors of Boards and shingles for the year
ensuing
The votes being brought in for one of the School Committee
in the room of Doct West it appeared that
Revd. John [S] Popkins
was chosen in the room of Dr. West who has resigned
The committee of the several Wards relative to assistants for
the assessors — Reported that
Agreeable to a vote of the Town, the respective Wards met on
the first Wednesday of April and chose two assistant assessors
for each Ward who being notified by the Chairman of the Select-
men, met at Faneuil Hall on Saturday the 17th. and by adjourn-
ment on Monday the nineteenth of April for the purpose of choos-
ing three persons to be nominated to the town as assessors when
Messrs. Josiah Snelling Samuel Dunn and Benjamin Sumnerwere
unanimously chosen,
present Mess John W Quincy Ward N°. 1
Jacob Holland 2
126 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Edward Proctor ">
Edward Edes I
William Walter )
Benja. Smith I
T Tid |
W Boardman j
R Webster N Webb 5
C Loring )
S W Simmer } • 7
J Brazier )
E Morse j
[2O5.] Nath1. Fellowes ) _ , XTo
D.D.Rogers j ' ' ' Ward N°. 9
J Winslow )
T Wright j
Jona. Hunnewell 11
W Brown )
N Bradley j
Nath1. Fellowes Chairmn.
William Walter Secy
The foregoing Report having been accepted by the town atad the
votes for three assessors having been brought in & assorted it
appeared that
Messrs. Josiah Snelling
Samuel Dunn
Benja. Sumner
were chosen Assessors for the year ensuing
Voted that all matters which shall remain unfinished at this
meeting be referred over to the May meeting.
Voted unanimously that the thanks of the town be given to
Joseph Russell Esq. the Moderator of this meeting for the
dispatch given the business that came before them
Then the meeting was dissolved.
[2O6.] At a meeting of the male Inhabitants of the town
of Boston of twenty one years of age and upwards qualified as
the Constitution prescribes and legally warned in public town
meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the twelfth
day of May Anno Domini 1802 11 °Clock AM
Prayer by Reverend Mr. Jn° Murray
Warrant for calling the meeting was Read
That part of the Constitution or frame of government which
relates to the choice of Representatives was Read
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1802. 127
The town having determined by a vote to choose seven persons
to Represent them in the General Court of Massachusetts to be
holden in the State house in Boston on the last Wednesday of
May current agreeable to the Constitution or frame of Govern-
ment for Massachusetts ; the inhabitants were directed by the
Selectmen to withdraw and bring in their votes for seven Repre-
sentatives and then it was declared by the Selectmen that no vote
would be received but such as are unfolded, and until the names
of the persons entering shall be marked on the list by the Gentle-
men who assist for that purpose from the several wards, and that
they propose the polls shall be closed at half past two o'clock,
the bells to begin tolling at two oclock and to continue until half
an hour is expired
The votes being brought in for seven Representatives, the
whole number of the same were found to be 2408, and upon as-
sorting them it appeared that the following seven Gentlemen had
obtained a majority of the votes Viz
Honble. John C Jones Esq 1386
Honble. Harrison Gray Otis Esq. 1378
Joseph Russell Esq. 1378
Samuel Parkman Esq 1383
John Lowell Esq. 1369
Deacon William Brown -------- 1382
Jona. Hunnewell Esq. 1374
[2O7.] The votes given for such as did not obtain were for
Charles Jarvis Esq Votes 1030
James Bowdoin Esq 1022
Benja. Austin Junr. Esq. 1023
David Tilden Esq ]020
Russell Sturgis Esq 1024
Nathaniel Fellowes Esq 1018
Samuel Brown Esq --' 1036
The choice of Representatives being over and declared by the
Selectmen, the meeting was dissolved
At a meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants of the
town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public town
meeting assembled at Faneuil hall on Tuesday the thirteenth day
of May Anno Domini 1802, 10 °Clock A.M.
Prayer by Revd. Mr. Murray
Warrant for calling the meeting was Read
The Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq.
was chosen Moderator of this meeting by a hand vote
128 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq
William Tudor Esq
John Winslow Esq
William Brown Esq
Mr. Josiah Knapp
Mr. Joshua Davis Junr.
are added to the Selectmen who conjunctly are to manage and
lease the lands on the neck
The article in the warrant viz To consider & adopt such
methods as may be proper to investigate the Towns claims to the
Flatts and Docks, also appoint Agents with authority to settle
and compromise any difference and to prosecute & [2O8] defend
suits on the towns claims to final judgment & execution and to
do any thing which may be thought proper to be done at said
meeting on that subject was read, whereupon
Voted that the above Committee be added to the Selectmen for
the purpose aforesaid to report at the adjournment and Thomas
Davis, Samuel Brown and John Andrews, Esquires are added to
said Committee
The article in the warrant viz That the town would take into
consideration the propriety of an application to the Legislature for
an alteration in the law respecting the choice of Constables was
read whereupon
Voted that this matter be referred to the Gentlemen who repre-
sent this town in the General Court who are desired to act thereon
as they may think proper
The Committee to audit Treasurers accounts &c
Report
That the Selectmens drafts amount to - - - - $42557.26
Overseers of the poor 13946.98
Board of Health from May 1801 to May 1802 - - 3248.49
Total - --- 59752.73
The Treasurer charges
pd. A Tukesbury for repairs & sundries - - 222.12
also amount of abatements, viz
To Benj Henderson - - - 942.33
Tho8 Bailey - - - - 2108. 4
Benj Jepson - - - - 641.95
C Marshall - - - - 1279.18
4971.50
the above completes the abatement of
taxes for 1800 by the assessors certified
March 15 1802
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1802. 129
The treasurer charges money paid for
interest 2403.25
The treasurer charges himself with new
a/cb'alce. 23231.36.5
90580.96.5
The treasurer gives Cr by the balce. of ~\
old acc°. [• 21601.90.2
April 13 1801 }
By sundries received of William Gooch in
8 paymts. 407.15
By William Gooch's note 372.63
780.8
By the Board of health 234.62
By Gen1. Winslow for 2 fines to Board
health 400.
634.62
By 1 fine 1.66
[2O9.] By S Bourne Esq. 2 fines 2.62
By Mungo Mackay Esq. subscription money for Cam-
bridge Street 100.
By O Hartshorne for lands sold him 1070.
By George Trott for hay engine ---.--- 194.58
By doughs note 13.33.3
By sundry rents ---- -- 749.
By A Tukesbury for rent 133.33
By the States Treasurer 2 semi annual payments
for States poor in Almshouse 5299.84
By the tax voted for 1801 60.000.00
90580.96.5
The treasurer also exhibits a trial balance Acc°.
April 1802
And charges Town powder - - - - - - - -1041.94
Notes receivable 372.63
Andrew Tukesbury 127.51
Estate of James Thompson 645.78
Cash 366.33
Benja. Henderson 10216.22
Christopher Marshall 2430.60
ditto 13772. 1
Benja.Jepson 17349.13
Thomas Bailey -------- 14327.72
58095.68
60649.87.5
130 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
And credits for notes payable - - - - 30948.80
Estate of John Gray - - 107.
Samuel Clap 491.84
Town of Boston 23231.36.5
Overseers drafts -' 66.44
Selectmens drafts 5804.43
60649.87.5
Amount of notes payable and to whom viz
Ezekiel Price April 1. 1790 - ... 220.15.4
B Barker March 1. 1792 463. 5
Elizabeth Partridge 231.12.6
Selectmen of Boston ------- 369.
Benja Waldo June 29 800.
£2084.12.10
equal to - - - 6948.80
Borrowed of the Union Bank for Alrnshouse - - - 20000.
for Board health - - 2000.
for oil for Lamps - - 2000
$30948.80
[21O.] The particulars of the foregoing statements are in
the several accounts herein annexed to which a reference may be
had all which appears to be well vouched and right cast. The
Committee after taking many circumstances of the town into con-
sideration recommend a tax to be laid for 70,000 dollars all
which is respectfully submitted
Thomas Dawes
Joseph Russell
Samuel Brown
The foregoing report having been read and considered the same
was accepted whereupon it was
Voted that the sum of 70,000 dollars be raised by a tax to be
assessed on the Polls and estates of the inhabitants of the Town
to defray the expenses of the current year
Voted that the Town Treasurer and collectors of taxes Salaries,
and the compensations to the assessors now chosen be referred
for consideration to the assistants of the town assessors to report
at the adjournment
Voted that the sum of Six hundred and sixty six dollars be
allowed and paid unto William Cooper for his services as Town
Clerk the present year the same to be paid him quarterly as it
shall become due, and to commence the first day of March last
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1802. 131
Voted that the sum of three hundred dollars be allowed to
John Phillips Esq. for his services as Town Advocate the year
ensuing
Voted to print the schedule of Town expenses the last year
The report of the Committee relative to Town Treasurers being
impowered to issue small notes &c, again read and debated and
the question being put, Whether the Report shall be accepted,"
passed in the negative
Adjourned to Monday the twenty fourth day of May instant at
three oclock. PM
Monday May 24 1802. the Town met according to Adjourn-
ment
The Committee to investigate the Towns claim to the docks and
Flatts, Report,
That they have fully considered the subject as it respects the
flatts between the South Battery Sconce and Scarlets Wharfe
[£11.] formerly so called ; have examined the earliest record &
heard council on the subject. The Committee find that the rights
of the abutters were limited by a circular line drawn in the year
1673 according to an agreement signed by them and by the
Selectmen — The Committee have examined the plan of the cir-
cular line which was taken in 1708, and are of opinion that this
line should be considered as the boundaries of the rights of the
abutters on the sea or flatts eastward
By order of the Committee
Charles Bulfinch Chairman
The foregoing report having been read and debated was
accepted by the town
A motion being made for a reconsideration did not obtain
The committee appointed to consider a compensation for the
services of the assessors and Town Treasurer, and the Collector
of Taxes — Report
That they are of opinion that Six hundred & fifty dollars be
allowed to each of the assessors, as a compensation for their
services, and that one thousand dollars pr Annum for the Town
Treasurer and Collector of Taxes as a compensation for his
services
Nathaniel Fellowes pr Order.
The foregoing Report having been accepted it was thereupon
voted.
132 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
That the sum of One thousand dollars be allowed and paid
unto Samuel Clap Esq. as a compensation for his services as
Town Treasurer and Collector of taxes the present year, the same
to be paid him quarterly as it shall become due and to commence
the first day of March last, also
Voted that Six hundred and fifty dollars be allowed and paid to
each the assessors for their respective services the present year,
the same to be paid them quarterly as it shall become due, and to
commence the first day of March last
Voted that the town Treasurer be authorized and empowered
to borrow on lawful interest for the use of the Board of Health
as there may be occasion a sum not exceeding two thousand
dollars
Voted that the Town Treasurer be authorized and empowered
to borrow on lawful interest for the use of the Selectmen as there
may be occasion a sum not exceeding two thousand dollars
Voted that the Town Treasurer be authorized and
empowered to borrow on lawful interest a sum not exceeding four
thousand dollars for the use of the Selectmen for the special pur-
pose of defraying the sums which have been awarded to those
persons whose lands and buildings in Fish Street have been taken
from them since the late fire to enlarge and improve said street.
Voted that the thanks of the Town be given to the Honble
Thomas Dawes Esq. the Moderator of this meeting for his good
services in dispatching the business of the meeting
Then the meeting was dissolved
At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public Town
meeting, assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 5th. day of
July Anno Domini 1802 at 9 oclock AM —
Warrant for calling the meeting - - Read
William Cooper Esq. was chosen Moderator.
The Committee appointed last year to make choice of a Gentle-
man to deliver an Oration on the Anniversary of Independence
Reported, that they had made choice of the Revd William
Euimerson who has accepted the appointment
On motion adjourned to Old South Church when agreeable to
the information of the Selectmen
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1802. 133
AN ORATION
to commemorate the Independence of the United States was
delivered by the Revd. William Emmerson at the old South
Church
On motion voted that the Selectmen be a Committee to wait
on the Revd. William Emmerson, and in the name of the Town
to thank him for the elegant and spirited Oration this day [213]
delivered by him at the request of the town upon the anniversary
of the Independence of the United States of America ; in which
according to the Institution of the Town he considered the feel-
ings manners and principles which led to that great national
event ; and to request of him a copy thereof for the Press
On motion voted that the Gentlemen Selectmen be and hereby
are appointed a Committee to apply to some one able & learned
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the fourth day of July A D
1803, that day being the anniversary of the Independence of the
United States of America wherein the Orator is to consider the
feelings, manners and principles which led to this great national
event; as well as the important and happy effects, whether gen-
eral or domestic, which have already or will forever flow from
that auspicious epoch
Then the meeting was dissolved.
At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public town
meeting assembled at Faneuil hall on Wednesday the fourteenth
day of July A° D1. 1802, 3 °Clock P M
Warrant for calling a meeting - - Read
Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq.
was chosen Moderator
The petition of a number of the Physicians of the Town, and of
the Board of Health, that the town would take into consideration
the expediency of granting permission (under direction of the
Board of Health) to inoculate twenty persons with the small pox,
having previously had the Kine pox, in order to ascertain beyond
all reasonable doubt, the utility of that disorder as a preventa-
tive against the small pox, and also that they be empowered to
take up some proper house as a hospital wherein to make these
experiments — was read and after considerable debate the question
was put and did not obtain, It was then moved & Voted that
the Prayer of this Petition be so far complied with that [214]
the Board of health have full power to make the experiment at
134 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
any place that they may judge convenient provided that it be not
within the town
Then the meeting was dissolved
At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned in public Town
meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the twenty seventh
day of September Anno Domini 1802, 10 oclock AM
Warrant for calling the meeting Read
Ebenezer Hancock Esq.
was chosen Moderator by a hand vote —
Samuel Clap Esq. letter of Resignation as Town Treasurer and
Collector of Taxes for the present year was read and accepted,
as by copy on file,
On motion voted that the Thanks of the Town be and hereby
are given to Samuel Clap Esq. for his good and faithful services
as Town Treasurer for a number of years past.
The inhabitants were directed to bring in their votes for Town
Treasurer and Collector of taxes for the remainder of the year,
and the same being brought in and counted it appeared that
Ebenezer Storer Esq.
was chosen Town Treasurer and Collector by a very large
majority.
On motion voted that the Auditors of the Towns accounts
chosen last March be desired to examine the accounts of the late
Treasurer, and to balance his books
The article in the warrant relative to the proceedings of the
trustees for managing the land on the neck, was read, whereupon
Voted, that the Town do now ratify and confirm the proceed-
ings of the Trustees for managing their land on the Neck and
authorize them or the major part of them as may be annually
chosen for that purpose to execute in behalf of the Town, such
[215] leases thereof or of any parcel or parts thereof which such
reservations of Rents and Rights of pre entry and limitations,
covenants of renewal or any other covenants ; as in the opinion
of the said Trustees, or the major part of them shall be most for
the interest of the Town ; which authority shall continue until
revoked by the Town, Provided that in all cases, the leases of the
said lands and any part or parcel of them shall be sold at public
auction
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1802. . 135
The article in the warrant containing the request of Cap'. John
Brazer was read, whereupon
Voted that his request be referred to the Selectmen for considera-
tion to report thereon at the next general Town meeting that may
be called
The article in the warrant, viz, The request of Jona. Ellis that
means may be adopted to make the necessary abatement in his
Tax for 1801 was read whereupon
Voted that the present Assessors together with two of the
Assessors of the last year viz Ebenr. Seaver & Jedediah Parker
be a Committee with authority to make the necessary abatements
on the outstanding Taxes prior to 1802, and to close the old
Assessors books to that period
Voted that the thanks of the Town be and heieby are given
unto Ebenezer Hancock Esq. for his good services as Moderator
Then the meeting was dissolved.
[216.] At a meeting of the Freeholders & other inhabitants
of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public
town meeting assembled at Faneuil hall on the first day of Novr.
Anno Domini 1802, 11 °Clock A M.
Prayer was made by Revd. Mr. Gardner
Warrant for calling the meeting - - Read
Paragraph of the Resolve of the General Court for the choice of
one Representative for the Suffolk district of this Commonwealth
in the Congress of the United States &c was Read
It was then declared by the Selectmen that the poll would be
closed at two oclock P M the bell to begin tolling at half past
one oclock —
Persons voted for as a Representative for the Suffolk district
for this Commonwealth in the next Congress of the United States
Viz
Honble. William Eustis Esqr. Fourteen hundred and thirty
votes
Honble. John Q. Adams Esqr. Fourteen hundred and ninety
six and the same was declared in Town meeting.
An attested Copy of the persons voted for as above was sealed
up in Town meeting after a declaration had been made by the
136 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Selectmen of the persons voted for as a Representative for
the Suffolk district in this Commonwealth in the Congress of the
United States — and the same was put into the hands of the
Sheriff of this County, to be delivered to the Secretary of this
Commonwealth, superscribed as follows viz*.
For John A very Esq.
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Then the meeting was dissolved.
[217.] At a meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in
public town meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall Decr. 23d. AD
1802, 10 °Clock AM. —
Warrant for calling a meeting Read
Joseph Russell Esq.
was chosen moderator by a hand Vote.
The article in the warrant viz. To consider the expediency of
appointing Agents with full power to make a final adjustment by
sale, purchase or otherwise with the Legislature relative to the
Old Town house, Or to take such other measures respecting the
same as may be most for the interest & honor of the Town, was
read & considered, whereupon
Voted, That the Honble. the Senators of the County of Suffolk,
and the Representatives of the Town of Boston be authorized
with full power to make any contract on the part of the Town
with the General Court of this Commonwealth, and the Counties
of Suffolk & Norfolk relative to the Old Town House, by sale
purchase or otherwise, and on such terms and conditions as to
them may appear most for the interest and honor of the Town
The article in the warrant relative to a further allowance to
the Assessors, Town Treasurer and Collector &c was read and
after debate the further consideration thereof was referred over
to March meeting.
The request of Russell Sturgis Esq. that the Town would
lease to him Deer island forj the purpose of erecting Salt works
having been read and considered
Voted that the Selectmen be and are hereby authorized and im-
powered to lease Deer Island in part or in whole for such sum
and such a term not exceeding twelve years as they may judge
proper.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1803. 137
Matters unfinished referred to next Town meeting.
On motion voted that the Thanks of the town be given to Joseph
Russell Esq for his good services as Moderator of this meeting.
Then the meeting was Dissolved.
18O3.
[218.] At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the town of Boston at Faneuil Hall on Friday 21 Janu-
ary AD 1803. 10 °Clock AM.
Warrant for calling meeting Read
Joseph Russell Esq
chosen Moderator of this meeting by a hand vote.
The article in the warrant relative to the Security of the Town
from fires, together with the petition of a number of the Inhabi-
tants for calling the meeting read and considered, whereupon
Voted unanimously that twelve citizens be chosen one from
each ward who with the Selectmen shall until the first day of May
next have full power and authority to adopt such measures as to
them may appear necessary and expedient the better to secure
the town against damage from fire ; and the inhabitants hereby
pledge themselves to the Committee and to each other that they
will promptly and without delay conform to the rules and regula-
tions which said Committee may from time to time propose to
enable them to effect the object of their appointment — and the
following Gentlemen were chosen as a Committee from the several
Wards agreeable to the above vote Viz.
Cap* Bray for Ward N° 1
Col° Gardner " 2
Thomas Lewis " 3
Josiah Vose "__.__ 4
Mr. Mitchell Lincoln " - 5
Isaiah Doane Esq ----------- 6
James Prince Esq " 7
Mr. David Bradlee " 8
Arnold Welles Esq"
General Winslow " 10
Cap* Daniel Messenger 11
Amasa Davis Esq _-- 12
also voted that in case of any vacancy the said Committee are to
fill up said vacancy
Voted that the Representatives of the Town be directed to use
their endeavours in the General Court to obtain such a revision
138 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
and alteration of the law regulating buildings [219] That all
buildings exceeding ten feet in height shall be built wholly of
brick or stone except such parts as may be necessary for doors or
windows, and covered -with Slate Tile or other non-combustible
composition
On motion voted that as the Town have witnessed the caution,
prudence and discretion of the Firewards in the late distressing
scenes which have fallen on this metropolis — the Thanks of the
town be given to them — and that they may be assured that the
town will afford them all the support necessary to such important
usefulness
Voted that the Thanks of the Town be given to Joseph Russell
Esq for his good services as Moderator
Then the meeting was dissolved.
At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public town
meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 26 January
AD 1803, 10 oclock AM
Warrant for calling the meeting Read.
Joseph Russell Esq. was chosen Moderator by a hand vote.
The petitions relative to a new Bridge, and a permanent wharf
were read and after debate had thereon
Voted that the Representatives of this Town be instructed to
request of the Legislature now in session a reference of the ap-
plication now before them for a bridge or wharves from South
end to Dorchester point until the next session of the Legislature,
also
Voted that Mr. Josia. Snelling Ward N° 1
Cap1. Rhodes " N° 2
Col°. John May " 3
William Mackay " 4
Thomas Edwards Esq 5
Honble. John C Jones 6
Honble. Benja. Austin Jr 7
Cap1. John Brazier 8
Cap1. Nath1. Fellowes 9
Joseph Russell Esq. 10
Gen1. Winslow 11
Josiah Knapp 12
[22O.] be a Committee to consider the subject of the Bridge
proposed from the South part of the town to Dorchester and also
BOSTON To\vx RECORDS, 1803. 139
the petition of Edward Tuckerman and others for liberty to build
a wharf to the Channel — and to report their opinion to the
Town at the next March meeting
Then the meeting was dissolved.
At a meeting of the Freeholders and other inhabitants of the
town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public town
meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 31 Jany A° Dl
1803.
Warrant for calling the meeting Read »
The article in the warrant was Read, as well as the petition for
calling the meeting and after some debate a motion was made and
carried that this meeting be adjourned to the Old South Church
The consideration of the article was then taken up and after
large debate the Question was put viz whether the vote passed
the 21st. instant viz "That all buildings exceeding ten feet in
hight shall be built wholly of brick or Stone except such parts as
may be necessary for doors and windows, and covered with slate
tile or other non- combustible composition " shall be reconsidered,
it passed in the negative by a considerable majority — It was then
moved and voted that our Representatives be instructed to pro-
cure an exemption in the bill now before the Legislature for such
persons as before the said twenty first day of January had con-
tracted or provided materials for erecting such buildings.
Then the meeting was dissolved
At a meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in pub-
lic Town meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the
second day of March AD 1803. at 10 °Clock AM —
Warrant for calling a meeting was Read
David Tilden Esq was chosen Moderator by a hand vote
The article in the warrant relative to the list of qualified voters
was read whereupon
Voted that the following Gentlemen be a Committee to receive
correct and complete the list of qualified voters in their respective
wards, who are to report the same to the Selectmen, Viz
140 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Josiah Snelling Samuel Lord & Amos Binney - - Ward N° 1
Thomas Lewis Col°. Edward Proctor John May - "3
Josiah Vose, Cap1. Ben ja. Smith Darius Boardman - "4
Jacob Rhoades, Col°. Gardner John Truman - - " 2
Mitehel Lincoln, John W. Folsom Samuel Sturgis - "5
Isaiah Doane, Jacob Eustis, Samuel Snelling - " 6
Cap*. Prince, Sam1. Parkman, B Austin, Samuel) u „
Snmner Josiah Bacon S Shaw j
Cap1. Brazier, Dr. Nath1. Noyes David Bradlee - "8
Arnold Welles Esq. Nath1. Fellows Esq Edmd.
Bowman " 9
Gen1. Winslow, G Blanchard, Samuel Hewes - - " 10
Samuel Sweet, Gen1. Donnison, Henry Vose - - "11
W Brown Esq Cap*. Wheeler, Col°. Davis Henry j "19
Bass, Uriah Cotton, Josiah Knapp j
A list of names for Jury Boxes was laid before the Town, and
being approved, the Gentlemen Selectmen were appointed a Com-
mittee for the purpose of regulating the Jury Boxes.
Voted that the thanks of the Town be given to David Tilden
Esq. for his good services as Moderator.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in
public town meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the
14th day of March Anno Domini 1803 9 °Clock AM.
Prayer was made by Revd. Doctr. Howard.
Warrant for calling the meeting was Read.
Sunday laws to be read at this meeting were accordingly read
Joseph Russell Esq.
was chosen Moderator by a hand vote
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
votes for a Town Clerk and the same having been brought in &
counted it appeared that William Cooper Esq. was chosen Town
Clerk for the year ensuing, and the oath of office was adminis-
tered to him by Mr. Justice Bulfinch
The Inhabitants were directed to bring in their votes for nine
Selectmen and the same being brought in counted and assorted it
appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen Viz*.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1803. 141
Charles Bulfinch Esq Mr. William Porter
David Tilden Esq Wm Sherburne Esq
Russell Sturgis P^sq Mr. John Tileston
Cap*. Joseph Howard Mr. Ebenr. Oliver
Jona. Hunnewell Esq
The votes being brought in for twelve overseers of
the poor it appeared that
Edward Proctor Esq Mr. Oliver Brewster
Mr. Edward Edes Dr. Redford Webster
Henry Hill Esq Thomas Perkins Esq
William Smith Esq Stephen Codman Esq
William Phillips Esq Mr. Samuel Snelling
Stephen Gorham Esq Mr. Benja. Goddard
were chosen Overseers of the Poor for the Year ensuing.
The Inhabitants brought in their votes for twenty four Fire-
wards, when it appeared that
Thomas Melvill Thomas H Perkins Esq
Mr. Edward Edes John Winslow Esq
Amasa Davis Esq [224.] Cap1 Joseph Howard
Samuel Parkman Esq Mr Benjamin Joy
Henry Jackson Esq Stephen Codman Esq
William Scollay Esq Andrew Cunningham Esq
Joseph May Esq Mr. John Bray
Cap*. Rob1 Gardner Mr. Thomas Dennie
John May Esq General Elliot
William Brown Esq Rufus G. Amory Esq.
Samuel Bradford Esq Jonathan Hunnewell Esq.
Joseph Head Cap' Daniel Messinger
were chosen Fire wards for the year ensuing
Voted, that in addition to the Selectmen twelve persons be now
chosen a School Committee and the votes being brought in it
appeared that the following gentlemen were chosen viz
Hon Thomas Dawes Esq
Dr Thomas Walsh
Rev Joseph Eckley D D
Rev Jno T Kirkland
Dr. Aaron Dexter
William Smith Esq.
, Arnold Welles Jr Esq
Edward Gray Esq
David Greene Esq
Josiah Quincy Esq
Revd William Emmerson
John Phillips Esq.
Voted that the above named Gentlemen who conjunctly with
142 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
the Selectmen are termed the School committee be and hereby are
directed to carry the new system of education which has been
adopted by the town into operation ; and said Committee are also
authorized and empowered conjunctly [225] to manage and
regulate the Officers and the government of the Schools, and in
future to regulate all the power relative to the Schools and School-
masters which the Selectmen or such Committees were authorized
by the laws of this Commonwealth or the Town to exercise, any
former votes of the Town to the contrary notwithstanding
Votes were brought in for a Town Treasurer and collector, but
there being no choice, On motion four o clock P M was assigned
for the choice.
Mr. Benjamin White
Moses Ayres
Daniel lugersol Junr.
William Darricott
were chosen Fence viewers for the year ensuing
Votes for a Treasurer for the County of Suffolk brought in
and counted by the Moderator & Town Clerk when it appeared
that the whole number [was] 272, all of which were for Ebenezer
Seaver Esq a discreet suitable person and a Freeholder and
Resident in said County.
The Votes being brought in for a Town Advocate for the
Municipal Court it appeared that John Phillips Esq. was chosen
Ajourned to 3 °Clock, P M —
Town met at three Oclock P M —
Messrs. Barney Conner
William Wheeler
were chosen Hogreeves for the year ensuing
Messrs. Barney Conner
William Wheeler
were chosen Haywards for the year ensuing
[226.] Messrs. Jeffry Richardson
Samuel Emmons
were chosen Surveyors of Hemp for the year ensuing
Messrs. Edward Tuckerman
Edward Edes
were chosen Surveyors of Wheat for the year ensuing
Messrs. John Welles
William C Hunneman
were chosen Assay masters for the year ensuing
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1803. 143
Messr. Roger Bartlett
Jonathan Gushing
were chosen Cullers of Dry Fish for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Henry Purkett
Lemuel Gardner
Thomas Barber
James Eunson
were chosen Cullers of hoops & staves for the year ensuing
The Selectmen
were chosen surveyors of the highways for the year ensuing
Mr. Edward Rumney, was chosen Inspector of Stone Lime for
the year ensuing
Messrs. Joshua Bentley
James Blake
William Clouston
John Butterfleld
Benjamin White
John Cogswell
William Darricott
Benjamin Page
William Ellison
[227.] Daniel Ingersoll
Samuel Treat
Thomas Stutson
were chosen Surveyors of Boards for the year ensuing.
Voted that the Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq
Joseph Russell Esq
Samuel Brown Esq
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to audit the accounts
of the late Town Treasurer and also the accots. of the Selectmen
Overseers of the poor & Board of health and said Committee are
also directed to report the sums necessary to be raised for the ser-
vices of the present year
Votes for a Town Treasurer & Collector of Taxes were again
brought in and upon counting and assorting the same it appeared
that, Mr. Benjamin Sumner was chosen.
The petition of the Wood wharfingers " That the Law which
restricts them from carrying more than four feet of Wood in their
Carts, may "be repealed " was read, and after debate had thereon
it was moved & voted that
Gen1. Winslow
Chas8. Paine Esq
Jona. Hunnewell Esq
144 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
be a committee to confer with the Wharfingers and report thereon
at the adjournment
The application of a number of the Inhabitants of West Bos-
ton was read, Whereupon Voted that the consideration of their
request that a new writing and grammar school may be estab
lished in that part of the Town be referred to the School Com-
mittee, they to report thereon at the adjournment
On motion Voted that this meeting be adjourned to Wednesday
23d. inst. 10 °Clock AM then to meet in this place.
Adjourned accordingly.
The Town met according to adjournment March 23d.
1803, at 10 °Clock AM. —
Voted that the consideration of all money matters be referred
over to next May meeting
The School Committee on the petition of a number of the
Inhabitants of West Boston for an additional school — Report
that having considered the petition of the Inhabitants of West
Boston for an additional school they unanimously recommend
that a reading and writing School should be established in some
convenient place at West Boston, so situated however as that it
shall likewise accommodate those who live near the centre of the
town " which Report having been read and considered it was
voted that the same be accepted — Also
Voted that the said Committee be empower'd to procure by
purchase or otherwise a suitable piece of land whereon to erect a
School house as proposed by the Inhabitants of Ward N° 7 and
that they proceed to build said school house and to establish a
writing and English grammar school with all convenient speed.
The Committee on the petition of the Woodwharfingers Re-
port, That having attended to that duty they are of opinion that
the clause of the By-law complained of by the Petitioners operates
a hardship upon them and that the same ought to be so altered as
that the Woodwharfingers & Truckmen should be at liberty, to
carry on their carts or Trucks at any season of the year a load
not exceeding six feet of Cord or Fire wood, reserving to the
Selectmen the power of restricting them to carry not more than
four feet of green wood at one time during such [229] part of
the Spring of every year as the Selectmen shall deem necessary
for the preservation of the Streets lanes and alleys of the town
and shall limit, and give notice thereof in any public newspaper
printed in the town of Boston, they the said Selectmen to have
power to vary, enlarge, or diminish such restriction as they may
judge proper
John Winslow, Chairman.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1803. 145
The above Report having been read & considered the question
was put viz whether this report shall be accepted ; passed in the
affirmative
Voted that all matters which shall remain unfinished at this
meeting be referred over for consideration to May meeting
Voted that the thanks of this meeting be given to Joseph Rus-
sell Esq. for his good services as Moderator.
THEN the MEETING WAS DISSOLVED.
At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town of Boston
of twenty one years of age & upwards qualified as the Constitu-
tion prescribes and legally warned in public town meeting assem-
bled at Faneuil hall on Wednesday the fourth day of April Anno
Domini 1803 11 oClock AM —
Prayer made by Revd. Samuel Stilman DD
Warrant for calling the meeting Read.
[23O.] Paragraph of the Constitution or frame of Govern-
ment relative to the choice of Governor & L*. Governor &
Senators Read
It was then declared by the Selectmen that no vote should be
received but such as were unfolded and that they propose the
poll should be closed at three o'clock PM. the votes to be received
at the table and the bells to begin ringing £ past two o'clock and
to continue for half an hour
Persons voted for as Governor with the number of votes for
each person viz
Votes
His Excellency Caleb Strong Esq 1864
Honorable Elbridge Gerry Esq. 881
Persons voted for as Lieu. Governor with the number of votes
for each person Viz
Honble. Edward Hutchinson Robinson Esq 1661
Honble. James Bowdoin Esq. 1093
Persons voted for as Senators for the County of Suffolk with
the number of votes for each person viz
Votes
Honb»e. Oliver Wendell Esq 2735
Honble. William Tudor Esq 1680
Honble. John C Jones Esq 1698
146 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
John Codman Esq 1679
Honble. Jonathan Mason Esq 1653
Honble. James Bowdoin Esq 1036
Honble. Benjamin Austin Esq 1076
David Tilden Esq 1078
Nathaniel Fellowes Esq 1056
Samuel Brown Esq 5
William Smith Esq 28
Charles Jarvis Esq 19
Theophilus Parsons Esq 12
[231.] Attested Copies of the persons voted for as Gov-
ernor Lt Governor & Senators of the County of Suffolk sealed up
in Town meeting (after the votes had been declared) and trans-
mitted to the Secretary of the Commonwealth superscribed as
follows
For John Avery Esq
Secy of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
The number of Votes of the Town of Boston for Governor,
Lieu4. Governor & five Senators for the County of Suffolk certified
within & sealed up in town meeting.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
[232.] At a meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the town of
Boston of twenty one years of age and upwards qualified as the
Constitution prescribes & legally warned in public town meeting
assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the eleventh day of May
Anno Domini 1803 11 °Clock A M
Prayer made by Revd. [Blank]
Warrant for calling the meeting [Read]
That part of the Constitution or frame of Government which
relates to the choice of Representatives [Read]
The town having determined by a vote to choose seven persons
to represent them in the general Court of Massachusetts to be
holden in the State house in Boston on the last Wednesday of
May current agreeable to the constitution or frame of Govern-
ment for Massachusetts, the Inhabitants were directed by the
Selectmen to withdraw and bring in their votes for seven Repre-
sentatives and then it was declared by the Selectmen that no votes
would be received by the Selectmen but such as are unfolded,
and until the Persons entering shall be marked on the list by the
Gentlemen, who assist for that purpose, from the several Wards,
and that they propose the poll shall be closed at £ past two
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1803. 147
o'clock, the Bells to begin tolling at two o'clock and to continue
until an half hour, is expired
The votes being brought in for seven Representatives the whole
number of the same was found to be 2,060, and upon assorting
them it appeared that the following seven Gentlemen had obtained
a majority of Votes Viz
[233.] Honble Harrison Gray Otis Esq 1175
John Lowell Esq 1152
Samuel Parkman Esq. 1163
Jonathan Hunnewell 2031
William Smith Esq. 1208
William Brown Esq. 1197
John Phillips Esq. 1243
The votes given for such as did not obtain were for
Hon James Bowdoin Esq - - 873
David Tilden Esq - ... 875
Russell Sturgis Esq - 884
Abiel Smith Esq - - - 905
Nathaniel Fellows Esq - - 842
Charles Paine Esq - - 815
The choice of Representatives being over & declared by the
Selectmen,
Then, the meeting was dissolved.
At a meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants of the
town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public Town
meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the twelfth day
of May Anno Domini 1803 at 10 o'clock AM. —
Warrant for calling the meeting Read
Joseph Russell Esq.
was chosen Moderator of this meeting by a hand vote
On motion, the Inhabitants were directed to bring in their votes
for three Selectmen, and half past eleven o'clock assigned for
closing the Poll.
On counting the votes it appeared that the whole number was
523 — and that the following [234] Gentlemen were chosen Viz*.
John May Esq. 428 votes
Francis Wright Esq. 428 "
Jonathan Chapman Esq. 428 "
The following Gentlemen are added to Selectmen who conjunctly
are to manage & lease the lands on Boston neck, by a unanimous
vote, Viz
148 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq. William Brown Esq.
" William Tudor Esq. Mr. Joseph Knapp
John Winslow Esq. Mr. Joshua Davis Junr.
Article in the Warrant viz Whether the Town will impower
Agents to maintain and defend any suits that may be brought, or
to compromise with the Proprietors of the Roxbury Canal, for a
piece of Marsh Land on the neck claimed by them " was read and
considered, whereupon
Voted that the Agents for the neck be and hereby are ap-
pointed Agents for this purpose
The request of Isaac P Davis that he may have a deed of the
land on which his Rope walk stands at the bottom of the com-
mon " was read — Whereupon, Voted that the Selectmen be and
hereby are appointed a Committee to confer with the Proprietors
of said Land, fully to consider this matter & report to the town
at the adjournment.
The article in the warrant viz whether the Town will think it
expedient to become interested in the proposed new Bank, read
whereupon Voted that
The Honble. John C Jones Esq
Harrison Gr Otis Esq
Thomas Dawes Esq
John Codman Esq
Joseph Russell Esq
Charles Bulfinch Esq
John Q Adams Esq
[235] be a Committee to consider this matter and to report
thereon at the adjournment the 23d of May instant
On the petition for an increase of the present surveyors of
Board & shingles, it was voted that two more persons should be
added to the present number of surveyors, and the choice of this
addition referred to the adjournment
The Committee to consider the expediency of reconsidering a
former vote of the town for building a bridge from the South part
of the town to Dorchester, and also the Petition of Edward
Tuckerman and others for leave to build a wharf at the South part
of the Town on Towns land — Report, That having attended the
business assigned them and heard the several parties, are fully in
opinion that the erection of a Bridge from the South part of
Boston to Dorchester would be very injurious to the interest of
the Town, they therefore recommend a reconsideration of a former
vote of the Town, granting leave to the Petitioners for that pur-
pose — That it is fully the opinion of the Committee (as they
consider no real advantage can be derived from it to the Town)
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1803. 149
that the prayer of the Petitioners for leave to build a wharf on
the Towns land should not be granted.
Per Order Josiah Snelling Chairman
The aforegoing Report having been read & considered the Ques-
tion was put whether said Report shall be accepted — passed in
the affirmative
Voted that the other matters in the warrant not acted upon be
referred to the adjournment and that the Inhabitants be informed
of the same and of the business then to be acted upon — and the
meeting is adjourned to Monday the twenty third day of May
instant, 10 °Clock A M
[236.] Monday the twenty third day of May at ten o'clock
A M the Town met according to adjournment
The inhabitants having brought in their votes for 2 surveyors
of boards it appeared that
Mr. Nathaniel Bradlee Junr.
Nehemiah Doggett Junr. were chosen.
The Committee to audit the Town Treasurers Accote. and also
to examine the accounts of the late Treasurer & to balance his
Books, Report — that they find the late Treasurer Samuel Clap
Esq. charges the Town with monies paid from May to September
1802 as follows
To overseers drafts 7092.34
To Selectmens d° 19908.30
To Board of healths drafts 1653.50
28654.14
To Samuel Brown Esq. balance of his Acc°
for New alms house 23533.32
To dftto agreeable to a vote of the town 800.
To Thomas Dawes d° 800.
To estate of G R Minot Esq. decd. - - - 800.
To amount of Interest paid since May last 1640.88
$56228.34
The late Treasurer also credits the town By old
acc°. for balance
By cash received of Treasr. Commonwealth to sup-
port the State poor
By amount of rents received - - - - - - - 815.50
By William Gooch at sundry times 137.40
By Abel Wild being an error in a draft of June last 100.
By a fine of J W Bayles by order of the Selectmen 50.
3792.38
28,126.64,5
By balance due to the Town 28,101.69,5
$56,228.34
150 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The Committee further find the following Statement as the Trial
balance in the late Treasurer accots. Books, viz
[237.] "Wherein he charges to Towns Powder - - 1041.94.5
To notes receiveable - 754.13.
To Andrew Tewksbury 127.51
To estate of James Thompson 645.78
To Benjamin Henderson 4868.96
To Christopher Marshall 7883.31
To Benjamin Jepson 9826.24
To Thomas Bayley 7777.58
30358.9
To Cash 26.65
To Town of Boston 28101.69.5
$61055.80
Wherein he credits the town of Boston, by notes payable viz
By Ezekiel Prices estate - - - -£220.15.4
By B Barkers 463.5
By Elizabeth Partridge - - - - 231.12.6
By Selectmen of Boston - - - - 369.
By Benjamin Waldo's Estate - - 800.
£2084.12.10 Lawf*My
which sum is equal in dollars 6948.80
By Union Bank 53210.
By ditto 790.
By estate of John Gray 107.
61055.80
Boston September 25, 1802. signed, Samuel Clap.
The Committee also find the aforementioned drafts from the
Overseers Selectmen & Board of Health to have been paid &
receipted for, and they appear to be well vouched and right cast,
all which will more fully appear from the accounts exhibited to
which reference will be had
Thomas Dawes ) -,
Samuel Brown > ...
,, I mittee
Joseph Russell )
The Committee appointed to audit the Accots. of the late Town
Treasurer Mr Storer, Overseers of the poor & Board of health
and the sum necessary to be raised the present year. Report.
[238.] The town of Boston as Dr to Ebenezer Storer
Treasurer and Collector from October 1802 to March 1803 in
Acc°.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1803.
151
To Union Bank in part Notes ------
" Ditto for interest 1893.26
14000.—
Interest on a Town Note - - - 73.80
To Thomas Edwards on Thompsons debt - - -
" Counterfeit Bills received of Persons )
unknown j
" Ebenezer Seaver County Treasurer
Jona. Jackson Esq State Treasurer
16.*45
75.
11380.92
9412.
36851.43
To Selectmens drafts N° 1 - - - 3140.4
Ditto " 2 2750.27
Ditto " 3 5635.59
Ditto " 4 5968.62
Ditto " 5 1853.80
Ditto " 6 7009.1
Ditto " 7 405.60
26764.93
deduct abatem*. in N° 3 3
26761.93
To Overseers Drafts N° 1. 3789.24
" D° 2 1115.33
D° ----- 3 673.76
D° 4 1480.11
D° 5 927. 1
D° 6 1618.31
9633.76
To Board of health N° 1. 517.16
D° - - - - N° 2 516.14
D° - - - - 3 712.85
1746.15
To balance in the Treasury -------
3109.25
178,102.52
Cr Premm.
tax cancelled 5 pr ct 55,527.68 2776.40
ditto 3prct 6538.75 196.14
ditto 2prct 1619.81 32.36
52751.28
6342.61
1587.45
63686.24 3004.90 60681.34
152 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
[239.] By Cash of Collectors viz
Benjamin Henderson - - 2945.78
Christopher Marshall - - 3595.59
Benjamin Jepson ... 5434.97
Thomas Bayley - - - - 4460.94
16,437,28
By estate of James Thompson 645.78
By William Grant, Rent of Stalls - - - 100.
By Benjn. White d° of Market - - - - 20.
By George Trott Hayweigher - - - - 218.12 338.12
78,102.52
Here follows a trial balance March 14,1803, taken from the Books
of Ebenr. Storer late Treasurer and Collector with this mem°.
The above balance of 3109.25/100. was paid to Benjamin Sum-
ner the new Treasurer April 12, 1803, and the Chest with the
books and papers were delivered to him
The Committee find the aforementioned drafts from the Over-
seers Selectmen & Board of health to have been paid & receipted
for. and they appear to be well vouched and right cast, all which
will more fully appear from the accounts exhibited, and from the
books and papers with the chest, and balance of three thousand
one hundred & nine dollars and twenty five cents delivered over
to Mr. Benjamin Sumner the present Treasurer, April 12, 1803.
Thomas Dawes )
Joseph Russell >• Committee
Samuel Brown )
There was annexed to the above Report an estimate of appro-
priation for the present year together with several suggestions for
the consideration of the Town which will more fully appear by
said Report, which having been distinctly read — after some
debate — the question was put viz. whether these Reports shall
be accepted by the Town, and it passed in the affirmative
[24O.] Voted that the sum of Eighty eight thousand dollars
be raised by a tax to be assessed on the Polls and estates of the
Inhabitants of the town to defray the expenses of the current
year.
Voted that the sum of Six hundred & sixty six dollars be
allowed & paid unto William Cooper for his services as Town
Clerk the ensuing year, the same to be paid him quarterly as it
shall become due and to commence the first of March last.
Voted that the sum of Three hundred dollars be allowed to John
Phillips Esq. for his services as Town Advocate the year ensu-
ing.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1803. 153
Voted, That the Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq.
Joseph Russell Esq.
Charles Jarvis Esq.
James Prince Esq.
General Winslow
be a Committee for the purpose of enquiring generally into the
state of the affairs of the County of Suffolk from the time the
County of Norfolk was taken off and to report as soon as may
be, and also what savings may be made.
On the Report of the Committee to consider the expediency of
the Town being interested in the proposed Bank
Voted that the Selectmen together with the Town Treasurer &
the County Treasurer be and hereby are appointed a Committee
to confer with the Trustees of the proposed new Bank to obtain
their consent that a right should be secured to the Town to sub-
scribe at any future period to the said Institution a sum not ex-
ceeding Two hundred thousand dollars, and to agree upon such
terms of Subscription as to them may appear for the interest of
the Town
[241.] The Committee relative to the Ropewalks not having
been able to make report, it was moved and voted that the
Gentlemen Selectmen together with the Honorable Thomas Dawes
Esq. Mr. Josiah Knapp Joseph Russell Esq. Mr. Ebenezer
Larkin & Deacon Brown be and hereby are appointed a Com-
mittee with full powers to effect a settlement with the Proprietors
of the Ropewalks, and to give them deeds of the Lands on which
they stand either upon the terms originally conditioned by the
town or on such others as in their opinion will be for the Interest
& advantage of the town. —
The article in the warrant viz. " What measures shall be taken
for the disposal and management of the Old State House, was
read, and on motion Voted that the Committee chosen in the
several Wards in April last to assist the Assessors, be appointed
a Committee to consider this article in the warrant, and to report
their opinion thereon at the Adjournment.
Then the meeting was adjourned to Monday the 13th of June
next 10 °clock AM.—
Monday June 13, 1803, 10 oclock A M. The Town met accord-
ing to adjournment.
The Moderator being out of Town, on motion the Honble.
Thomas Dawes Esq. was chosen Moderator pro. tern. —
The Committee relative to the Old State house Reported —
after some debate it was moved that the sense of the Town be
taken as to the expediency of leasing the same — and the
154 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
question being put it passed in favour of its being leased. The
report was again [242] taken up amended and accepted by the
town, and is as follows viz.
That in the opinion of the Board of Assistant Assessors, the
Committee for the purpose, it would be for the interest of the
Town to lease the Old State house for a term of time not less
than ten nor to exceed fifty years, and the rent to be paid quar-
terly or annually ; and that it be a condition of the Lease that
the house be put into good repair and kept so during the term for
which it may be leased by and at the expense of the Lessee and
shall be occupied for public or private offices and such other pur-
poses only as the Selectmen for the time being shall approve of,
and that no alteration be made in the external form of the build-
ing without their approbation the Lease containing a clause pro-
viding that if the Rent shall not be punctually paid, according to
the terms of the lease, or if the Lessee or Lessees their heirs or
assigns shall not occupy the estate according to the approbation
or orders of the Selectmen as before expressed ; or shall suffer it
to go to waste for want of repairs, that then the Selectmen or the
Town shall have a right to reenter, and by the reentry to render
the Lease void after such an entry — providing however that the
right of reentry be no bar to an action on the Lease against the
Lessee or Lessees, their heirs, Executors, Administrators or
Assigns if the Town consider such mode to be most eligible —
and that it would be best to dispose of the lease at public Auction
William Walter Tristram Barnard
Secretary Chairman
[243.] Voted, that the Selectmen be and hereby are
appointed Agents in behalf of the town to carry the aforegoing
Report into execution. —
The Committee relative to the clause in the warrant respecting
County expenses. Reported verbally and were desired to report
again in writing, and that when ready to report the Selectmen are
requested to call a special meeting for the consideration of the
same. — Also, Voted that
Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq.
John Phillips Esq.
be added to said Committee.
Moved & voted that the consideration of the request of the
Town Treasurer, Collector and Assessors for an augmentation
of their respective salaries be referred for consideration to the
meeting that may be called relative to County matters.
Voted that the thanks of the Town be given unto Joseph
Russell Esq. and the Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq. for their good
services in the Moderators chair
Then the meeting was dissolved.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1803. 155
[244.] At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in
public Town meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the
fourth day of July Anno Domini 1803, 9 oclock AM
Warrant for calling the meeting Read
William Cooper, chosen Moderator.
The Committee appointed the last year to make choice of a
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the Anniversary of Inde-
pendence, Reported, that they had made choice of William Sulli-
van Esq. who has accepted the appointment.
On motion adjourned to Old South Church, where agreeable to
the information of the Selectmen
AN ORATION,
to commemorate the independence of the United States was
delivered by William Sullivan Esq. at the Old South Church
On motion voted that the Selectmen be a Committee to wait on
William Sullivan Esq. and in the name of the Town to thank
him for the elegant & spirited Oration this day delivered by him
at the request of the Town upon the Anniversary of the Inde-
pendence of the United States of America ; in which according to
the Institution of the Town he considered the feelings, manners
& principles which led to that great national event, and to
request a Copy thereof for the press
On motion voted that the Gentlemen, Selectmen be and hereby
are appointed a Committee to apply to some one able and learned
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the fourth day of July A D
1804 that [245] Day being the Anniversary of the Independ-
ence of the United States of America wherein the Orator is to
consider the feelings manners and principles which led to this
great national event ; as well as the important & happy effects
whether general or domestic, which have already, or will forever
flow from that auspicious Epoch
Then the meeting was dissolved
At a meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified & legally warned in public town
meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the twenty first
day of December Anno Domini 1803 — 10 "Clock A M.—
Warrant for calling the meeting Read
Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq. chosen Moderator in the room of
Judge Sullivan first chosen, who declined serving.
156 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The Committee relative to the County of Suffolk Reported, and
after considerable debate thereon it was moved & voted that
this Report be printed and the Selectmen are requested to furnish
each of the Freeholders with one of them, and that this meeting
be adjourned to next Monday week, 10 oclock A M, and the
meeting was accordingly adjourned.
1804.
The Town met according to adjournment, on Monday January
2d. 1804 — at 10 oclock A M.
The article in the Warrant relative to a Turnpike on the neck
on Lords days read & debated [246] and the question being
put whether it be sense of the town that a Turnpike be estab-
lished, it did not obtain
The Report of the Committee to consider what savings could
be made in the County expences &c was taken up and largely
debated, whereupon motion was made and the Question accord-
ingly put viz Whether the Town will attempt to procure any
alteration in the County & Town Government, which passed in
the affirmative by a great majority. —
It was then moved & voted that a Committee of Twenty four
Gentlemen [be appointed], and that two out of each Ward be
chosen as the Committee to consider & report on this matter,
and that said Report be given into the Selectmen, and when thus
given in, that the same be printed & dispersed among the Inhab-
itants for their iuformation, and the Selectmen were desired to
call upon the Clerks of the Respective Wards to provide in the
meetings of the Wards for that purpose —
Voted that any business unfinished, mentioned in the warrant
be referred to next general town meeting.
Then the meeting was dissolved.
[247.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified & legally warned in
public town meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the
16th day of January Anno Domini 1804 at 10 oclock A M. —
Warrant for calling the meeting Read
Mr. James Prince
chosen Moderator by a hand vote
On motion voted to adjourn this meeting to the Old South Church.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1804. 157
The town being assembled at the Old South Church, the
Warrant for the meeting, Petition &c being read, after some
debate it was moved & seconded That the Town commit the
proposal of William Tudor & others, (that the Lands on Dor-
chester Neck be annexed to the Town of Boston on certain con-
ditions) to a Committee to be chosen for that purpose — a debate
on this question ensued which continued until two oclock, when
on motion the meeting was adjourned to 3 oclock P. M.
At three oclock PM The town met agreeable to adjournment,
and the debate was again taken up which continued until 6 oclock
when on motion the Meeting was adjourned to the next day
10 oclock AM.
January 17. 10 oclock AM the Town met, when the debate was
renewed and continued until One oclock ; the question of commit-
ment was then taken, and it passed in the negative.
It was then moved & seconded, That the town will consent
that the lands on Dorchester neck agreeable to the Petition of the
Owners shall be annexed [248] to and incorporated with the
Town of Boston provided it can be done on such conditions as
the Town shall hereafter agree to. The question being accord-
ingly taken passed in the affirmative —
It was then moved & voted that a Committee be chosen in i'ne
Wards consisting of two persons from each Ward to consider the
conditions on which the Lands on Dorchester neck shall be an-
nexed to and incorporated with the town of Boston, and that the
Selectmen be requested to take measures to assemble the Wards
for this purpose.
Adjourned to Monday the 23d instant
Monday 23d January instant at 10 oclock AM The town met
according to adjournment, when the Chairman of the Selectmen
reported that the Inhabitants of the several Wards had met and
chosen the Committee agreeable to a vote of the town of the
1 7th instant, that the Committee had entered upon the business
assigned them but were not yet ready to make report and pro-
posed that the meeting should be adjourned to Monday the 30th
instant, whereupon voted that this meeting be adjourned
accordingly.
Monday January 30, instant at 10 oclock, the Town met ac-
cording to adjournment
The report of the Committee chosen in the several Wards was
read, whereupon it was moved & seconded and voted that this
report be considered by paragraphs
158 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The first paragraph relative to a Bridge from South Street was
read & voted to be accepted.
The second paragraph relative to what shall be paid to vessells
passing up above the bridge &c was read, and after a long debate,
the Question whether the [*349] same shall be accepted being
put it was declared by the Moderator that the same had passed in
the affirmative — this Vote being doubted a division of the house
was called for on one part and warmly opposed on the other
part — the Moderator then put the question called for whether it
was [the] sense of the Town that the house should be divided
which was declared by the Moderator to be in the negative — As
it now appeared to be impossible under the present agitation of
the meeting to proceed in the consideration of the paragraphs
Mr. Otis propos'd that the terms and conditions — of the pro-
posed Bridge from South Street shall be referred to the Legislat-
ure the Applicants holding themselves pledged to the Town to
pay them twenty five thousand dollars or give one half of the
bridge and the streets and lots for public accommodations as
proposed.
This motion led to some general conversation and the motion
was objected to as out of order, the debates and altercations
having continued until two o, clock there was then a general call
for an adjournment and the meeting was accordingly adjourned
to Tuesday 10 oclock AM
Tuesday January 31, 10 oclock AM. The town met according
to adjournment
It was then moved & seconded, that the Votes taken yesterday
upon the report of the Committee be reconsidered, and that the'
place from which and the terms on which the proposed Bridge
should be built, shall be left entirely to the Legislature. The
Question being put it passed almost unanimously in the
affirmative
Then the meeting was dissolved.
[25O.] At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified & legally warned in
public Town meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday
the twenty ninth day of February Anno Domini 1804 at 10
oclock AM —
Warrant for calling the meeting Read
Honble. Thomas Dawes Esq. chosen Moderator by a hand vote. —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1804. 159
The Article relative to filling up the Mill pond read whereupon
moved & carried, that this article with the petition be referr'd to
a Committee who are requested to take up this matter at
large and report at March meeting, but previous thereto to the
Selectmen in order to its being printed for the inspection of the
Inhabitants before said meeting Also
Voted that Hen*16. Thomas Dawes, Moderator
Samuel Brown Esq.
Joseph Russell Esq.
James Prince
Judge Dawes
be a Committee for this purpose.
The article in the Warrant viz to consider the application of
William Phillips Esq. that his own and the towns right may be
ascertained respecting a ten feet water way leading from Water
Street to Kilby street " was read and referred to said Committee
for consideration (excepting Judge Dawes who was excused) to
report at March meeting. —
Voted that the Thanks of the town be given to the Moderator
for his good services
Then the meeting was dissolved.
[251.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned in pub-
lic Town meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall March 12th 1804.
10 OClock A.M.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — Read
Honbl James Sullivan Esq chosen Moderator by a hand Vote
The Report of the Committee chosen by the Wards of the
Town to consider what alterations in the County and Town
Govnerment may be necessary and to devise a plan therefor" —
was read ; and after some debate
It was moved and carried, that this Meeting be adjourned to
the 2d Monday in April next. 10. oClock A.M. and the Meeting
was accordingly Adjourned.
The second Monday of April, being the 9th Day of April 1804 —
10 OClock in Forenoon — Town met according to Adjournment —
The Report of the Town Committee relative to a Plan for an
alteration in the County and Town Government was again read
by the Moderator — and after considerable debate thereon, it was
160 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
moved and the Question accordingly put — viz Whether this
Meeting shall be dissolved — and passed in the affirmative — the
decision of the Moderator being disputed, and a call that the
Meeting may be divided — the House was divided — which very
fully manifested, that the Moderator was right in his declaration,
that the majority of the Town were for a dissolution of the
Meeting.
And the Meeting was accordingly dissolved.
[252.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders, and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned,
in public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday
the 19th Day of March Anno Domini 1804 9 OClock A.M.
Prayer was made by Revd. Dr. Eliot
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
Sundry Laws to be read at this Meeting were accordingly —
read
Joseph Russell Esq. was chosen moderator by a hand vote
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Town Clerk, and the same having been brought in
and counted, it appeared that
William Cooper
was chosen Town Clerk for the year ensuing, and the Oath of
Office was administered to him by Mr. Justice Bulfinch.
The Inhabitants were directed to bring in their Votes for 9
Selectmen, and the same having been brought in counted and
sorted, it appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen
Viz
Charles Bulfinch Esq Ebenr. Oliver Esq
David Tilden Esq Jona. Hunnewell Esq
William Porter Esq. John May Esq
Mr. John Tileston Francis Wright Esq
Jona. Chapman Esq
The Votes being brought in for 12 Overseers of the Poor, it
appeared, that
Edward Proctor Esq Mr. Samuel Snelling
Henry Hill Esq Mr. Benjamin Goddard
William Smith Esq Samuel Clap Esq
William Phillips Esq Mr. Ozias Goodwin
[253.] Dr. Redford Webster Mr. William Mackey i
Thomas Perkins Esq Joseph Coolidge Jui\Esq
were chosen Overseers of the Poor for the Year ensuing.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1804. 161
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to Stephen Gor-
ham Esq Mr. Oliver Brewster & Stephen Codman Esq who have
resigned as Overseers of the Poor, for their good services during
their continuance in that Office
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for 24 Fire Wards,
when it appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen —
Viz
Thomas Melvill Esq John Winslow Esq
Amasa Davis Esq Capt Joseph Howard
Samuel Parkman Esq Mr. Benjamin Joy
Henry Jackson Esq Stephen Codman Esq
William Scolley Esq William Cunningham Esq
Joseph May Esq Mr John Bray
Capt Robert Gardner Mr. Thomas Dennie
John May Esq General Eliot
William Brown Esq Rufus G Amory Esq
Samuel Bradford Esq Jona. Hunnewell Esq
Mr Joseph Head Capt Daniel Messenger
Thomas H. Perkins Esq Mr Ozias Goodwin
[254.] Voted, that in addition to the Selectmen 12 persons
shall now be chosen a School Committee and the Votes being
brought in it appeared that the following Gentlemen, were chosen
— Viz —
Honbl Thomas Dawes Esq Arnold Wells Esq
Dr Thomas Welch Edward Gray Esq
Revd. Joseph Eckley DD David Green Esq
Revd. J. T. Kirkland DD Josiah Quincy Esq
Dr Aaron Dexter Revd. William Emmerson
William Smith Esq. John Phillips Esq.
Voted, that the above named Gentlemen who conjunctly with
the Selectmen are termed the School Committee be and hereby
are directed to carry the new System of Education which has
been adopted by the Town into operation and said Committee are
also authorized and empowered conjunctly to manage and regu-
late the Affairs, and the government of the Schools and in future
to execute all the power relative to the Schools & School Masters,
which the Selectmen or such Committees were authorized by the
Laws of this Commonwealth or the Votes of the Town to exercise,
any former Vote of the Town notwithstanding
The Votes for a Town Treasurer and Collector of Taxes being
brought in it appeared, that
Mr Benjamin Sumner was chosen
Votes, for a Treasurer of the County of Suffolk brought in and
counted by the Moderator & Town Clerk when it appeared that
the whole number was 1 70, all of which were for Ebenezer Sever
162 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Esq a discreet suitable person & a Freeholder and Resident in
said County.
[255.] The Votes, being brought in for a Town Advocate for
the Municipal Court, it appeared that
John Phillips Esq
was chosen.
Messrs. Joshua Bently Messrs. John Butterfield
Benjamin White Samuel Treat
John Cogswell Nath1 Bradlee Jur
Daniel Ingersol jur Noah Doggett Junr
William Clouston Caleb Coolidge
William Darricott Brodick Loring
William Ellison Edward Allen
were chosen Surveyors of Boards & Shingles for ye year ensuing
Messrs. Benjamin White Messrs. Daniel Ingersol Jur
Moses Thayer William Darricott
were chosen Fence Viewers for the Year ensuing
Messrs. Barney Connor
Joseph Cabbit
were chosen Hogreeves for the Year ensuing
Messrs. Barney Connor
Joseph Cabbit
were chosen Haywards for the Year ensuing
Messrs. Samuel Emmons
James Phillips
were chosen Surveyors of Hemp for the Year ensuing.
[256.] Edward Tuckerman Esq
Mr Josiah Snelling
were chosen Surveyors of Wheat for the Year ensuing
Messrs. John Wells
William Cooper Hunneman
were chosen Assay Masters for the Year ensuing
Messrs. Roger Bartlet
Jonathan Gushing
were chosen Cullers of Dry Fish for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. Henry Purkett
Lemuel Gardner
Thomas Barbour
James Eunson
were chosen Surveyors of Hoops & Staves for the Year ensuing
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1804. 163
The Selectmen
were chosen Surveyors of High Ways for the Year ensuing.
Mr. Edward Rumney
was chosen Inspector of Stone Lime for the Year ensuing.
Judge Sullivan
was added to the Committee relative to a piece of Land in Water
Street
Voted, that Honb1 Thomas Dawes Esq
Joseph Russell Esq
Samuel Brown Esq
be, and hereby are appointed a Committee to Audit the Accompts
of the Town Treasurer, and also the Accounts of the Selectmen,
Overseers of the Poor, and Board of Health ; and said Committee
are also directed to report the Sums necessary to be raised, for
the services of the present Year.
The Article in the Warrant viz " to take measures respecting
the bequest of the late Honb1 William Phillips Esq of Five thou-
sand Dollars to the Town towards building an Hospital" was
read, whereupon
Voted that the Selectmen be a [257] Committee to wait upon
the Executor to the late Honb1 William Phillips Esq to express
the thanks of the Town for the generous bequest.
The Article in the Warrant relative to the Claim of a piece of
Land in Water Street by William Phillips Esq was read, and
referred to the Committee to which Judge Sullivan is added ; said
Committee not having been able to make Report
Adjourned to Wednesday the 28th March 10 OClock A.M.
Town met according to Adjournment March 28th 10 OClock
A.M.
The Committee relative to the Claim of William Phillips Esq
to a piece of Land near Water Street and considered thereupon —
the Question was put viz Whether said Report be accepted
— passed in the affirmative.
The Committee appointed to Consider the Petition of William
Phillips Esq relating to a slip of Land on Kilby Street have
attended that service and beg leave to Report — That it is in
their opinion best that the Town Release to said Phillips and his
Heirs all right to the said Slip of Land, provided he pay therefor
so much money as three disinterested Arbitrators, mutually to be
chosen by the Selectmen and said Phillips shall determine to
be the value therefor, and provided he agree that he and his
164 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Heirs and Assignes shall keep in good repair so much of the
Drain as passes under said Strip of Land in the place it now
occupies ; and of its present dimensions. All which is sub-
mitted by
Thomas Dawes
Samuel Brown
Joseph Russell
J Prince
Boston March 27. 1804.
[258.] The Article relative to Mill Pond and the Report
of Town's Committee thereon, was read, and on motion referred
for further consideration, to the next May Meeting
Voted, that all matters, which shall remain unfinished at this
Meeting, be referred over to May Meeting.
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to Joseph Rus-
sell Esq. for his good services as Moderator of this Meeting
Then the Meeting: was dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town of Boston
of 21 Years of age and upwards, qualified as the Constitution
prescribes, and legally warned in public Town Meeting Assem-
bled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 2d of April Anno Domini
1804, 11 OClock A,M,
Prayer by the Revd. Joseph Eckley DD
Warrant for calling the Meeting — Read
Paragraph of the Constitution or frame of Government relative
to the choice of Governor, Lieu* Governor & Senators.
It was then declared by the Selectmen that no Vote will be
received but such as are unfolded, and that they propose the Poll
shall be closed at £ past 2 OClock P.M. the Votes to be received
at the Table and the Bells to begin ringing at 2 OClock — and to
continue half an hour
Persons Voted for as Governor with the number of Votes for
each Person — Viz
Votes
His Excellency Caleb Strong Esq 1980
Honbl James Sullivan Esq ------- 650
Persons Voted, for as Lieu* Governor, with the number of
Votes for each Person — Viz
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1804. 165
Votes
Honb1 Edward H Robbins Esq 1909
Honb1 William Heath Esq 730
[259.] Persons Voted, for as Senators for the County of
Suffolk with the number of Votes for each Person Viz —
Votes
Honbl Oliver Wendell Esq 2647
Honbl Benjamin Austin Jur Esq 847
Honbl James Bowdoin Esq 1126
Honbl David Tilden Esq 1136
Abiel Smith Esq 1209
John Phillips Esq 1544
William Brown Esq 1802
Joseph Russell Esq 1516
Josiah Quincy Esq - 1452
Attested copies of the Persons Voted for, as Governor Lieu*
Governor and Senators for the County of Suffolk, sealed up
in Town Meeting, (after the Votes had been declared) and
transmitted to the Secretary of this Commonwealth. Subscribed
as follows — Viz
For John Avery Esq.
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The number of Votes of the Town of Boston for Governor,
Lieu* Governor, and five Senators for the County of Suffolk,
Certified within and sealed up in Town Meeting, after the Vote
had been declared
Then the Meeting was dissolved
[26O.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in
public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the
9th Day of April A. D. 1804.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — Read
Joseph Russell Esq.
was chosen Moderator by a hand Vote
The Request of William Tudor, Harrison G Otis and Jonathan
Mason Esquires, " that the Town will appoint Agents to treat
with them upon the terms, on which they may obtain the whole or
part of the Town's Land on Orange Street now occupied by Capt
Nath1 Curtis for the purpose of building the proposed New Bridge
therefrom " — was read and considered, whereupon
166 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Voted, that the Selectmen be and hereby are appointed Agents
on behalf of the Town, with full powers to treat with the pro-
prietors of South Bridge for the disposal of the whole or, such
part of the Town's Landing on Orange Street, for the purpose of
building the proposed Bridge, and to conclude with them such a
Contract as may under all circumstances be for the Interest of
the Town
Then the Meeting was dissolved
[261.] At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town
of Boston of 21 Years of Age & upwards qualified' as the Con-
stitution prescribes, and legally warned in public Town Meeting
Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 9th Day of May
A. D. 1804. 11, OClock A. M.
The Meeting was opened with Prayer, by the Revd. Mr. Free-
man.
Warrant for calling Meeting — Read
That part of the Constitution or frame of Government which
relates to the choice of Representatives, read
The Town having determined by a Vote to choose 7 Persons
to Represent them in the General Court of Massachusetts to be
holden in the State House in Boston on the last Wednesday of
May Current, agreeable to the Constitution or frame of Govern-
ment for Massachusetts ; the Inhabitants were directed by the
Selectmen to withdraw and bring in their Votes for 7 Representa-
tives, and then it was declared by the Selectmen that no Votes
would be received by the Selectmen but such as are unfolded, and
untill the names of the Persons entering shall be marked on the
List by the Gentlemen who assist for that purpose from the
several Wards, and that they propose the Poll shall be closed at
£ past 2 OClock, the Bells to begin tolling at 2 OClock and to
continue untill half an hour is expired.
The Votes being brought in for Seven Representatives, the
whole number was found to be 1976, and upon sorting them it
appeared, that the following seven Gentlemen were chosen, having
obtained a majority of the Votes Viz.
Votes
Honb1 H G Otis Esq. 1119
Jonathan Hunnewell Esq. - - - 1136
William Smith Esq 1128
Abiel Smith Esq 1971
Dr William Spooner 1095
Mr. John Wells 1117
William Sullivan Esq - - - - 1105
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1804. 167
[262.] The Votes given in for such as did not obtain were
for
Votes
Honb1 David Tilden Esq 890
Samuel Brown Esq 892
Russell Sturgis Esq 892
Samuel Clap Esq 896
David Townsend Esq - ... 878
Abiel Smith Esq [blank]
Coln Gardner 844
The choice of Representatives being over and declared by the
Selectmen —
The Meeting was dissolved
At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the 10 Day of
May A.D. 1804. 10 OClock A.M.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — Read
Joseph Russell Esq
was chosen Moderator by a Hand Vote.
The article in the "Warrant viz. " To consider what allowance
shall be made the Town Treasurer & Collector, and the Assessors
for their services " — was read and after some debate it was
moved and Voted, that the
Honbl James Sullivan Esq
Charles Jarvis Esq
Honbl Joseph Russell Esq
Benjamin Russell Esq
Samuel Brown Esq
be a Committee to consider this matter and Report thereon at the
adjournment.
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw, and bring in their
Votes, for 6 Agents, in addition to the Selectmen as Trustees for
the management of the Town lands who conjunctly are to lease
and manage said Land, in such manner as shall appear to them
best for the interest of the Town, and upon sorting the Votes
brought in it appeared that
Honbl Thomas Dawes Esq
General John "Winslow Esq
Honbl William Brown Esq
[263.] Josiah Knapp Esq
Joshua Davis Jur Esq
Honbl John Phillips Esq
were chosen
168 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The Committee appointed to Audit the Accompts of the Town
Treasurer &c &c and the sums necessary to be raised for the
present Year. — Report Viz.
The Treasurer Credits the Town of Boston with sundry Sums
of Money received by him to Amt of ----- $147511.91
And charge the Town with the sum of - - - - 147511.91
which includes a ballance of $937.89 Cents
in the Treasury April 30. 1804
The particulars of said Debt & Credit will more fully appear
from the Accounts herewith exhibited and which are as follows N°
1. and which is more fully explained in N° 2.
The Tryal ballance Acct to the Amt of $50156.44 is also an-_
nexed and is as N° 3 — The Committee find the aforementioned
Accounts to be well vouched and right cast (so far as they have had
time to proceed in the business) all which will more fully appear
from the Accounts themselves when compared with the Books. —
The Committee further Report that from an Estimate received
from the Board of Selectmen &c there will be wanting the follow-
ing Sums of Money for the Year 1804.
Selectmen ------- $42,000
Overseers of the Poor - - - 14,000
Board of Health 4000
County of Suffolk - - - - 12000
State 17620
Sundries 10380
Amounting in the whole to - - $100,000
The Committee are therefore of opinion that the Town Vote, a
Tax to be raised according to Law for $100,000 for the above
purpose —
Thomas Dawes
Joseph Russell
Samuel Brown
[264.] The foregoing Report having been read and con-
sidered the Question was put whether the same shall be accepted,
Passed in the Affirmative —
Voted, that the sum of $70,380 be raised by a Tax to be
Assessed on the Polls and Estates of the Inhabitants of this
Town, to defray the Expences of the Current Year
Voted, that the sum of $666 be allowed and paid unto William
Cooper for his services as Town Clerk the ensuing Year —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1804. 169
Voted, that the Sum of three hundred Dollars be allowed to
John Phillips Esq. for his services as Town Advocate the Year
ensuing —
The Report of the Committee, relative to Mill Pond, again
read — and after long debate the Question as called for was put
that the Meeting be now Adjourned — passed in the Negative —
It was then moved that the sense of the Town be taken with
respect to the expediency of filling up the Mill Pond — and the
Question being accordingly put — it was declared by the Modera-
tor that the Vote was in the negative — there being a call that
the House might be divided — it was accordingly divided twice,
when the Moderator declared that he remained of the same
opinion — a Poll was then demanded by seven Citizens, and on
the division, the Moderator declared it was now his opinion the
Vote was in favour of filling up the Pond — there was then a
motion for an Adjournment, when the business might be again
taken up and more fully discussed — when it was Voted, that the
Meeting be Adjourned to Monday the 14th of May Ins1 9
OClock A.M. for the consideration of this matter and other
still unfinished.
Monday the 14th May 9 OClock Forenoon Town met accord-
ing to Adjournment.
The business of the Mill Pond was taken up, and it appeared
to be the sense of the Town that this matter, should be consid-
ered anew, the Vote for filling up the Pond at the last Meeting
notwithstanding — A long debate then ensued, on the subject at
large when, it was moved, — that the Question be put — viz
Whether it be the [265] sense of this Meeting, that it is expe-
dient that the Mill Pond should be filled up — and the Question
being accordingly put Passed in the Affirmative, by a consid-
erable majority
It was then moved and Voted, that a Committee be appointed
to treat with the supposed Proprietors of the Mill Pond relative
to filling up the same — and to make such Agreement with them
for that purpose, as in the opinion of said Committee, shall be
most for the advantage of the Town.
Voted, that Honb1 William Eustis
Honb1 Thomas Dawes Senr
Charles Jarvis Esq
Honbl Joseph Russell
Honbl James Sullivan
Honbl William Brown
be added to the Gentlemen Selectmen as a Committee for the
purpose aforesaid —
The Committee to consider suitable Allowances to the Treas-
170 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
urer & Collector — and to the Assessors — Reported, and said
Report as amended in Town Meeting, and accepted by the Town
is as follows — Viz —
The Treasurer to be allowed and paid Seven hundred Dollars,
in addition to five hundred Dollars allowed him for a Clerk in his
last Accounts for 1803 and that he be allowed 1200 Dollars for
the Year 1804 and to pay his own Clerk —
The Assessors, to be allowed — each for their services for the
Year 1802. they having received 650 Dollars each for that Year
— and that they be paid 650 Dollars each for the Years 1803 and
1804. —
Voted, that any matters unfinished at this Meeting be referred
for consideration to the next General Meeting that shall be
called.
[266.] Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given the
Honbl Joseph Russell, for his good services as Moderator. —
Then the Meeting was dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 4th Day of
July A.D. 1804— 9 OClock A.M.
Warrant for calling Meeting — Read.
William Cooper
chosen Moderator —
The Committee appointed the last Year, to make choice of a
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the Anniversary of Indepen-
dence —
Reported that they had made choice of Dr. Thomas Danforth,
who has accepted of the appointment.
On Motion, Adjourned to Old South Church when
AN ORATION
to commemorate the Independence of the United States was deliv-
ered by Dr Thomas Danforth at the Old South.
On Motion Voted, that the Selectmen be a Committee to wait
on Dr Thomas Danforth and in the Name of the Town to thank
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1804. 171
him for the elegant and spirited Oration this Day delivered by
him at the request of the Town, upon the Anniversary of the
Independence of the United States of America ; in which accord-
ing to the Institution of the Town, ho considered the manners,
feelings and principles which led to that Great National Event
— and to request of him a Copy thereof for the Press
On Motion Voted, that the G-entlemen Selectmen be and hereby
are appointed a Committee to apply to some able & learned Gen-
tlemen to deliver an Oration on the 4th of July A.D. 1805, that
Day being the Anniversary of the Independence [367] of the
United States of America, wherein the Orator is to consider the
feelings, manners, and principles which led to this great National
event ; as well as the important and happy effects whether general
or domestic which have already or will forever flow from that
auspicious epoch. —
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston qualified to vote for Representatives to the Gen-
eral Court of this Commonwealth and legally warned, in public
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall the 5th Day of Novem-
ber A.D. 1804 being the 1st Monday of the same Month 11
O Clock A.M.
Prayer made by Revd Mr Channing.
"Warrant for calling the Meeting — Read
Paragraph of a Resolve of the General Court for the choice of
Nineteen Electors of President and Vice President of the United
States — and also for one Representative — Read.
It was then declared by the Selectmen that they proposed to
have the Poll closed at j4 past 2 O Clock — the Bells to begin
tolling at 2 O Clock.
Persons Voted for as Electors of the President & Vice Presi-
dent of the United States. — Viz
At Large
Honbl David Cobb Esq of Goolsburough District of
Maine 2277
Honbl Oliver Wendell Esq of Boston, Dis't of Massa-
chusetts ---- - 2277
Honbl John Coffin Jones Esq of Boston Suffolk Dist - 2277
Essex S° District
Honbl Benjamin Goodhue of Salem 2277
172 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Essex N° District
Honbl Bailey Bartlet Esq of Haverhill 2277
Middlesex District
Honbl Eleazer Brooks Esq of Lincoln 2277
[268.] Hampshire N°. District
Honbl Eben Mattoon Junr Esq of Amherst - - - 2277
Hampshire S° District
Honbl William Shephard Esq - - - 2277
Plymouth District
Honbl William Sever Esq of Kingston ----- 2277
Barnstable District
Honbl Ebenezer Bacon Esq of Barnstable - - - - 2277
Bristol District
Honbl George Leonard Esq of Norton 2277
Worcester S° District
Joseph Allen Esq of Worcester 2277
Worcester N° District
Honbl Josiah Stearns Esq --------- 2277
Berkshire District
Honbl David Rosseter Esq of Richmond - - - - 2277
Norfolk District
Honbl Cotton Tufts Esq 2277
York District
Honbl John Lord Esq of Berwick 2277
Cumberland District
Honbl Isaac Parker Esq of Portland 2277
Lincoln District
Honbl Thomas Rice of Wise asset 2277
Kennebeck District
Samuel S Wilde Esq of Hallowell - - - - 2277
At Large
Honbl James Sullivan Esq of Boston 1568
Honbl Elbridge Gerry of Cambridge 1568
Suffolk District
Honbl James Bowdoin of Boston 1568
8° Essex
Coln John Hathorn of Salem - - 1568
N° Essex
Dr Thomas Kitteredge of Andover 1568
Middlesex
Honbl James Winthrop of Cambridge 1568
S° Hampshire
Jonathan Smith Jur of West Springfield - - 1568
N° Hampshire
Edward Upham Esq of New Salem . - - - 1568
Plymouth
Honbl James Warren of Plymouth - - - - - 1568
[269.] Bristol District
Honbl Josiah Deane of Raynham - - ... 1568
Barnstable
Honbl John Davis of Barnstable ----- - 1568
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1805. 173
go "Worcester
General Timothy Newell of Sturbridge 1568
N° Worcester
General John Whiting of Lancaster 1568
Berkshire
Honbl John Bacon of Stockbridge 1568
Norfolk
Honbl William Heath of Roxbury 1568
York
. Honbl John Woodman of Buxton 1568
Cumberland
Honbl Charles Turner of Turner - - - - - - - 1568
Kennebeck
Coln Thomas Fillebrown of Hallowell 1568
Lincoln
John Farley Esq of New Castle 1568
Persons Voted, for as a Representative for the first Middle
District of this Commonwealth in the next Congress of the
United States Viz. -
Votes
Honbl William Eustis Esq — Fifteen hundred sixty seven
Honbl Josiah Quincy Esq — Nineteen hundred & twenty
Honbl John Phillips Esq Three
Two attested copies of the Persons Voted for as above were
sealed up, and sent to the Secretary of this Commonwealth by
the Town Clerk — superscribed as follows — Viz —
For John Avery Esq
Secretary of the Commonwealth
List of Votes, for a Representative for the first middle District
of this Commonwealth in the next Congress of the United States,
from the Town of Boston — (the other for Electors &c. of the
same tenor)
Then the Meeting was dissolved
1805.
* [27O.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned,
in public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday
the 4th Day of February A.D. 1805.
Warrant for calling the Meeting - - - Read.
Thomas Edwards Esq
chosen Moderator by a hand Vote.
174 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
A Communication from the Mill Proprietors as also the Act
incorporating said Proprietors — were read —
It appearing to the Town, that the Hall was not sufficient to
receive all the Inhabitants, that would attend the Meeting — the
Selectmen were desired to prepare a suitable place for the Meet-
ing of the Inhabitants at the proposed Adjournment.
The Meeting was then Adjourned to Thursday next 10 OClock.
A.M : to meet at this place or such other as may be designated
by the Selectmen.
Thursday the 7th of February 10 OClock AM: met according
to adjournment.
The Selectmen Reported, several places where the Inhabitants
might be accommodated, leaving it with the Town to determine
which was the most convenient when the Town on Motion Ad-
journed to Mr. Murray's Meeting House.
The Town as adjourned, met at Revd. Mr Murray's Church.*
The Report of the Committee on Mill Pond was again read,
and after long debate thereon, the Question was put, Whether
the same shall be accepted Passed in the Affirmative by a great
Majority — (Mem0 the Report was printed and distributed,
previous to this Meeting, which together with other Papers rela-
tive to Mill Pond, are placed upon the Files Feby 4. 1805)
On motion This Meeting stands Adjourned to February 8 then
to meet at this place 10 OClock A.M.
[271.] Town Met according to Adjournment Thursday the
8th of February 10 O Clock. A. M.
f
The Article in the Warrant. Viz " To Act upon the Petition
of the Inhabitants of South Boston and others to take the sense
of the Town, whether they will direct their Representatives, to
use their endeavours to obtain a Bridge to South Boston, from
South Street or the parts Adjacent" — was read, as also the
petition and other papers relative thereto — And after full debate
had thereon, it was moved and carried
That it will be a great advantage to the Town to have a Bridge
from South Street or some place near it to South Boston, as soon
as the same can be conveniently erected ; And that the Repre-
sentatives of the Town and the Senators for the County of Suffolk
be requested to solicit the Legislature from time to time, and
procure an Act to be passed for that purpose, without delay —
* First Unlversalist, Hanover street.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1805. 175
On Motion Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be and hereby
are given to Thomas Edwards Esq for his good services, as
Moderator of this Meeting. —
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned
in public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday
the 11th Day of March. A. D. 1805 9 OClock A. M.
Prayer was made by the Revd. Dr Lathrop
Warrant for calling the Meeting — Read
Sundry Laws to be read at this Meeting were accordingly — read
Thomas Edwards Esq
was chosen Moderator by a hand Vote
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Town Clerk, and the Votes having been brought in
and counted, it appeared, that
William Cooper
was chosen Town Clerk for the Year ensuing and the Oath of
Office was administered to him by Thomas Edwards Esq
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for 9 Selectmen and the same having been brought in and
counted it appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen
Charles Bulfinch Esq Mr. Ebenezer Oliver
David Tilden Esq Jonathan Hunnewell Esq
William Porter Esq John May Esq
Mr. John Tileston Francis Wright Esq
Jonathan Chapman Esq
Adjourned to 3 OClock. P.M.
[273.] Met according to Adjournment.
Edward Proctor Esq Mr Samuel Snelling
Henry Hill Esq Mr Benjamin Goddard
William Smith Esq Samuel Clap Esq
William Phillips Esq Mr. Ozias Goodwin
Dr. Redford Webster Mr. William Mackey
Thomas Perkins Esq Joseph Coolidge Jur Esq
were chosen Overseers of the Poor for the Year ensuing
176 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for 24 Fire-wards, when
it appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen — Viz
Thomas Melvill Esq Mr Thomas Dennie
Mr. Amasa Davis General Elliot
Samuel Parkman Esq Rufus G Amory Esq
Henry Jacksou Esq Jonathan Hunnewell Esq
William Scollay Esq [274.] Cap1 Daniel Messenger
Joseph May Esq Mr Ozias Goodwin
Capt Robert Gardner Mr. Thomas Curtis
Samuel Bradford Esq Joshua Davis Jur Esq
John Winslow Esq Mr John D Howard
Stephen Codman Esq Mr Benjamin Coates
Andrew Cunningham Esq Mr Joseph Head
Mr John Bray Thomas H Perkins Esq
Voted, that in addition to the Selectmen 12 Persons shall now
be chosen a School Committee, and the Votes being brought in
and sorted, it appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen
— Viz.
Honw Thomas Dawes Esq Arnold "Wells Esq
Dr Thomas Welch Edward Gray Esq
Revd Joseph Eckley DD David Green Esq
Revd J T Kirkland DD Josiah Quincy Esq
Dr Aaron Dexter Revd William Emmerson
William Smith Esq John Phillips Esq
Voted, that the above named Gentlemen who conjunctly with
the Selectmen are termed the School Committee be and hereby
are directed to carry the new System of Education which has
been adopted by the Town into operation, and said Committee
are also authorised and empowered conjunctly, to manage and
regulate the Officers, and the Government of the Schools, and in
future to execute all the power relative to the Schools & School-
masters, which the Selectmen or such Committee were authorised
by the Laws of the Commonwealth or the Votes of the Town to
exercise, any former Votes of the Town notwithstanding.
[275.] The Votes for a Town Treasurer & Collector of
Taxes being brought in it appeared that
Mr Benjamin Sumner
was chosen.
Votes, for a Treasurer of the County of Suffolk brought in &
counted by the Moderator & Town Clerk, when it appeared that
the whole number was 383 of which 231 were for Ebenezer
Seaver Esq & 152 for Mr Benjamin Sumner both discreet suita-
ble Persons & Freeholders and Residents in said County.
The Votes being brought in for a Town Advocate for the
Municipal Court it appeared that
John Phillips Esq was chosen.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1805. 177
Messrs. Jonathan Bentley Messrs. John Butterfield
Benjamin White Samuel Treat
John Cogswell Nathaniel Bradlee Jur
Daniel Ingersol Noah Dogget Jur
William Clouston Caleb Coolidge
William Darracott Braddock Loring
William Ellison Edward Allen
were chosen Surveyors of Boards & Shingles, for the Year
ensuing
[276.] Messrs. Benjamin White
Moses Ayers
Daniel Ingersol Jur
William Darracot
were chosen Fence Viewers for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. Barney Connor
James Cobbit
were chosen Hogreeves for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. Barney Connor
James Cobbit
were chosen Haywards for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. Samuel Emmons
James Phillips
were chosen Surveyors of Hemp for the Year ensuing*
Edward Tuckerman Esq >
Mr Josiah Snelling
were chosen Surveyors of Wheat for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. John Wells
William Cooper Hunneman
were chosen Assay Masters for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. Jonathan Gushing
Joseph Doble
Elisha Turner
were chosen Cullers of Dry Fish for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. Henry Purkitt
Lemuel Gardner
Thomas Barbour
James Eunson
were chosen Cullers of Hoops & Staves for the Year ensuing.
[277.] The Selectmen
were chosen Surveyors of Highways for the Year ensuing
Mr Edward Rumney
was chosen Inspector of Stone Lime for the Year ensuing.
178 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The Article in the Warrant, viz " to consider the application
of Mr Josiah Knapp, that the Town would relinquish to him part
of their Flatts bounding on a passage way leading south of his
dwelling House from Orange Street to Front Street, upon terms
to be agreed upon" was read — Whereupon
Voted, that the Selectmen be authorized to make such con-
tracts with Mr Josiah Knapp relative to the filling up and mak-
ing the Street leading through his Estate to Front Street, as they
may Judge for the interest of the Town and to convey to him by
Quit Claim Deed, such part of the Flatts adjoining the same as
they may Judge proper reserving thirty feet in width for said
Street.
Voted, that the Honb1 Thomas Dawes Esq
Joseph Russell Esq
Samuel Brown Esq
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to Audit the Accompts
of the Town Treasurer, and also the Accompts of the Selectmen,
Overseers of the Poor, & Board of Health and said Committee
are also directed to Report the sums necessary to be raised for
their services for the present Year.
The Article in the Warrant viz "To act upon the Petition of
Samuel Hunt, that the Rent of the House might be allowed him,
as the House of the Latin Grammar Master was taken down to
accommodate the Town with a place for a School house ; and that
he might receive the advantage of a Vote of the Town, passed
[278] in his favour in the Year 1782 — was read whereupon
Voted, that Honb1 Judge Dawes Dr. Warren
Mr. William Dall Caleb Biugham
Mr. Ticknor Stephen Codman Esq
Capt Barnard
be a Committee to take up this matter & Report at the
Adjournment
The Article in the Warrant viz ' • To hear and determine on
the request of the Fire Wards, for a Grant of a reasonable com-
pensation to their Secretary read, and
Voted, that Benjamin Austin Jur Esq Coln Proctor
Thomas Edwards Esq Deacon Brown
Coln May
be a Committee to consider this application and to Report at the
Adjournment
On the request of the Assessors, "that, a further allowance
may be made them for their services," —
BOSTOX TOWN RECORDS, 1805. 179
Voted, that General Winslow Major Stutson
Joseph Cooledge Jur Esq Stephen Codman Esq
Capt Brazier
be a Committee to consider this request and Report thereon at
the Adjournment
The Clause in the "Warrant, viz. u To consider the expediency
of providing a more convenient place for Assembling the Inhabi-
tants " — read — and on Motion
Voted, that the Selectmen consider this matter and report
thereon when they shall judge proper —
Adjourned to Wednesday the 27th March Ins* 10 O Clock
A.M.
[379.] Wednesday the 27th of March 1805 — 10 O Clock
A.M. Met according to Adjournment
The Committee on the Petition of the Assessors for a further
allowance for their services, Reported, That having heard the
Assessors, and examined the business & the time they are obliged
to spend therein, are of opinion in consideration of the increase
of duty & high price of living, that there be granted the Sum of
five hundred Dollars to each which is at the rate of 166 Dollars
66 Cents Pr Year in addition to their Salaries, as a full considera-
tion for past services.
John Winslow, Chairman per Order
The Committee on the Petition of Mr. Samuel Hunt — Reports
That upon conferring with him found that by some mistake in
that petition, it does not comprehend the object which he in-
tended — they therefore advised him to withdraw it, and prefer a
new one should he think proper to a future Meeting, to which he
has consented ; and the Committee Report accordingly.
Thomas Dawes Jur per order
This Report having been read, was accepted by the Town. —
Col° Gardner, having sent in his resignation as a Fire Ward,
It was moved & Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to
Col° Robert Gardner for his good and faithfull services as a Fire
Ward a number of Years past.
The Committee on the request of the Fire Wards for the grant
of a reasonable compensation to their Secretary Report, That two
hundred Dollars be allowed as a full compensation for his ser-
vices the Year ensuing to be paid by the Selectmen in Quarterly
draughts on the Town Treasurer —
Benjamin Austin Jur per Order
180 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
[28O.] Moved & Voted, almost unanimously, that the said
Report be accepted.
Voted, that all matters which shall remain unfinished at this
Meeting, be referred for consideration to May Meeting
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to Thomas
Edwards Esq, for his good services as Moderator of this Meeting.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town of Boston
of 21 Years of Age and upwards qualified as the Constitution
prescribes and legally warned in public Town Meeting Assembled
at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 1st Day of April Anno Domini
1805 9 OClock. A. M.
Prayer by the Revd Dr. Eliot —
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
Paragraph of the Constitution or Frame of Government relative
to the choice of Governor, Lieut Governor & Senators — read
It was then declared by the Selectmen that no Vote would be
received but such as are unfolded and that they propose the Poll
shall be closed at £ past 1 oClock P. M. The Votes to be received
at the Table and the Bells to begin ringing at 1 oclock and to
continue for half an hour.
Persons Voted for as Governor with the number of Votes for
each person —
Votes
His Excellency Caleb Strong Esq 2587
Honbl James Sullivan Esq 1253
Honbl Elbridge Gerry Esq 5
[281.] persons Voted, for as Lul. Governor with the num-
ber of Votes for each Person
Votea
Honbl Edward H Robbins Esqr - - - - 2520
Honbl William Heath Esqr 1312
Honbl Henry Knox 10
Christopher Gore Esqr 7
Persons Voted, for as Senators for the County of Suffolk with
the number of Votes for each Person
Votes
Honbl Oliver Wendell Esq 2556
Honbl Harrison G Otis Esq 2407
Honbl William Brown Esq 2300
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1805. 181
Honbl John Phillips Esq 2543
Thomas H Perkins Esq - - - - 2534
Honbl David Tilden Esq 1315
Samuel Brown Esq 1310
Russell Sturgis Esq 1522
Samuel Clap Esq 1209
Dr David Townsend --- 1270
Jonathan Hunnewell Esq - - - - . 68
Stephen Codman Esq 38
Attested Copies of the Persons Voted for as Governor, Lieut
Governor, and Senators for the County of Suffolk sealed up in
Town Meeting after the Votes had been declared and transmitted
to the Secretary of the Commonwealth Subscribed as follows —
Viz.
For John Avery Esq
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The number of Votes of the Town of Boston for Governor
Lieu* Governor and five Senators for the County of Suffolk Certi-
fied within & sealed up in Town Meeting after the Vote had been
declared.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
[282.] At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town
of Boston of 21 Years of Age and upwards qualified as the
Constitution requires, and legally warned in public Town Meet-
ing Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Friday the 3d Day of May A.D.
1805, 10 OClock A.M.
Warrant for calling Meeting — read — also the Section of the
Law relative to choice of Representatives.
Honbl Thomas Dawes Esq
chosen Moderator of the Meeting by a hand Vote —
The Petition for a Town Meeting, signed by Stephen Higgin-
son Jur Esq and others — read
The Article in the warrant viz ' ' To take into consideration
the propriety of increasing the customary number of Representa-
tives, and of ascertaining & determining upon the number to
represent the Town in the next General Court" — was read —
and after some debate — it was Voted, That the Town will exer-
cise its Constitutional privilege, in the choice of Representatives
— It was therefore Voted and by a handsome majority, that at
the ensuing Town Meeting the Citizens shall bring in their Votes
for Twenty six Representatives.
182 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The Moderator, had a Vote of Thanks for his good services
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
[283.] At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town
of Boston of 21 Years of Age, and upwards qualified as the Con-
stitution prescribes, and legally warned in public Town Meeting
Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 8th Day of May
A. D. 1805 — 9 0 Clock. A. M.
The Meeting opened with Prayer by Revd. Dr. Baldwin —
Warrant for calling Meeting — read
That part of the Constitution or Frame of Government which
relates to the choice of Representatives — read
The Town having determined by a Vote to choose Persons to
Represent them in the General Court of Massachusetts to be
holden in the State House in Boston on the last Wednesday of
May Current agreeable to the Constitution or Frame of Govern-
ment for Massachusetts ; the Inhabitants were" directed by the
Selectmen to withdraw and bring in their Votes for Representa-
tives not exceeding 26 ; then it was declared by the Selectmen
that no Votes would be received, but such as are unfolded and
untill the names of the Persons entering shall be marked on the
List by the Gentlemen who assist for that purpose from the
several Wards, and that they propose the Poll shall be closed at
2 O Clock the Bells to begin ringing at J^ past 1 O Clock and to
continue until half an hour is expired.
The Votes, being brought in for 26 Representatives the whole
number was found to be 1051 and upon sorting them it appeared
that the following Gentlemen were chosen, having obtained a
majority of the Votes. Viz
Votes
William Smith Esq 1043
Jonathan Hunnewell Esq 1042
Dr William Spooner 1043
Mr John Wells 1046
William Sullivan Esq 1047
Honb1 George Cabot Esq 1049
Theophilus Parsons Esq. 1037
[284.] Honb1 Jonathan Mason Esq 1027
Stephen Codman Esq 1036
John Winslow Esq - 1041
Daniel Sargent Jur Esq 1020
William Phillips Esq 1036
James Lloyd Esq 1033
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1805. 183
Thomas Perkins Esq 1040
Simon Elliot Esq 1040
Samuel Parkman Esq - - 1028
Joseph Hall Esq 1046
Edward Tuckerman Esq ...-._ 1046
Mr Francis Wright 1041
Dr Redford Webster 1041
Mr Thomas C Amory 1026
Edward Gray Esq 1048
William Parsons Esq 1049
John Callender Esq - - - - - - - 1021
Benjamin Russell Esq 1001
Mr Thomas W Sumner 1002
The choice of Representatives being over and declared by the
Selectmen —
The Meeting was dissolved.
[285.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi*
tants of the Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned,
in public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday
the 9th Day of May, Anno Domini 1805 10 OClock A.M.
Warrant for calling Meeting — Read
Honb1 Thomas Dawes Esq
was chosen Moderator by a hand Vote
Votes for one Fire ward in the room of one who had* declined
serving — being brought in and counted, it appeared that
Mr Judah Hays — was chosen a Fireward
for the Year ensuing.
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for six Trustees for Town Land on the Neck in addition to
the Selectmen, who conjunctly are to Lease and manage said
Land in such manner as shall appear to them best for the Interest
of the Town, the same being brought in and sorted it appeared
that
Honb1 Thomas Dawes Esq
General John Wins low Esq
Honb1 William Brown Esq
Josiah Knapp Esq
Joshua Davis Jur Esq
Honb1 John Phillips Esq
were chosen.
Petition of Purchasers of Land on Neck — read, together with
a Statement from the Trustees of said Land whereupon
184 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Voted that the Statement be printed, with an abstract of the
original conditions of Sale.
The Selectmen having laid before the Town a proposal for,
together with the Estimate of the charge of enlarging Faneuil
Hall it was moved and Voted, that the [286] same be printed
for the inspection of the Inhabitants
The Petition of Samuel Hunt late Master of Grammar School
for an allowance for House Rent &c was read, and committed
to
Stephen Codman Esq
Joseph Russell Esq
Mr Elisha Ticknor
they to examine, and Report thereon to the Town
The request of the Town Clerk " that an allowance may be
made him on account of the rise of Rents and the high price of
the nescessaries of life" was read whereupon Voted, unanimously
that the Selectmen be impowered and directed, to make him such
allowance therefor, as has been allowed and drawn for the School
Masters and other Town Officers for a number of Years past. —
On Motion, the Meeting was adjourned to Thursday the 23d
of May Inst 10 OClock A.M.
Thursday the 23d of May 10 OClock A.M. Met according to
Adjournment
The petition of a number of Purchasers of the lots of Land on
the Neck '' that the condition of their purchases may be altered"
read — as also the Communication of the Trustees, which by order
of the Town was printed and distributed among the Inhabitants
— viz "That they have considered this subject generally, and
upon enquiry and examination, find, ' That the mode of purchase
by Lease is not conformable to the practice and habits of our
Citizens —
That the conditions of payment of a perpetual ground rent
so embarrasses and encumbers the title that the original pur-
chasers will find it difficult to subdivide their lots and thereby
obtain that assistance in building upon which many of them cal-
culated — That considering the quantity of Land lately added to
the Town, it is important that the Lands of the Town for sale
should be offered on as good terms and if possible upon more
favourable terms, than the Lands of Individuals — The Trustees
therefore would recommend, that the Sales of Lots in future should
be by Deed in Fee Simple — That ten per cent of the purchase
money should be advanced within Thirty days from the Sale, and
ten pr cent be paid annually at some stated period in each Year ;
untill the whole [287] shall be paid; and that a mortgage deed
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1805. 185
should be taken for the regular payment of principle & Interest
with proper obligations for the full security of the Town —
The Trustees having also considered the great importance of
vesting the proceeds of the Towns Land in such a manner as
shall create a fund, the interest of which may in future defray a
large portion of the expences of the Town, would recommend
that the Town should empower the Trustees to vest the proceeds
of the land in Stock of the United States, of this State, or of any
public institution, to be held in the names of the Trustees, the
interest to be received annually by the Town Treasurer, and
appropriated as the Town shall direct —
With respect to the present application of the Lessees the
Trustees recommend that all those who shall comply with their
engagements to build during the present Year shall be placed on
the same footing as the future purchasers contemplated above ;
that their leases be cancelled, and the Deeds be given them for
their lots, upon their paying ten per Cent annually of the
principal and interest due.
As the Trustees however are sensible that this arangement
would be greatly for the interest of the present applicants, they
are of opinion it ought to be on condition that they fill up with
earth or gravel, and put in good order the cross Streets to the
extent of their lots and that they place a row of edge stones on
the line of the foot walk of their front on Washington Street,
and level and pave the same with Bricks, As the accommodation
of the holders of the land will be principally promoted by these
measures, the Trustees hope that these conditions will be readily
agreed to "
After due consideration, it was moved and voted, unanimously,
that the Report be accepted —
The Selectmen having (as directed by the Town) Reported what
measures should be taken for the better accommodation of the
Inhabitants in their public Meetings " it was read and accepted
and Voted, that the Selectmen be empowered and directed to
proceed to enlarge Faneuil [288] Hall in the manner and for the
uses pointed out in the Report. —
That the Selectmen be empowered to sell and execute Deeds
to convey the Land of the Town on the Northly side of the Cir-
cular Walk on Fort Hill, reserving therefrom as much as may be
necessary for commodious Streets and Passages — That untill
the payments for the Land shall be made, the Town Treasurer be
empowered to borrow of either of the Banks such sums of money
for the purchase of Materials and payment of Workmen as the
Selectmen shall find necessary ; the same to be repaid by the
proceeds of the Land —
186 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The Committee appointed to Audit the Accompts of the Town
Treasurer &c — Report —
That the Treasurer Credits the Town of Boston with sundry
sums of money received by him to the amount of $121,632,44
and charges the Town with the sum of $121,632.44 including a
ballance of $3073.67 in the Treasury April 30. 1805 which is
represented in his account Current Paper N° 1. the particulars of
said debt and Credit will more fully appear from the statement
herewith exhibited and annexed, which will be found in N° 2 A
Summary of the Cash paid monthly by the Town Treasurer from
May 1. 1804 to 30th April 1805 taken from the Account Current,
and the amount of the different drafts drawn on the Town
Treasurer monthly from May 1804 to April 1805 by the Select-
men Overseers of the Poor & Board of Health, and the money
paid them ; also the money paid the State Treasurer, County
Treasurer, Union Bank, Interest money, and sundry Creditors,
and the amount of the Outstanding debts are all comprehended
in N° 3.-
The Tryal Ballance in the Town Treasurers Books of debts and
credits stands April 30. 1805 $42146.17 in N°. 4
The Committee on the Mem0 of Taxes for 1802 committed
to the several Deputy Collectors, upon the expiration of 6 M°.
find the N° of Bills to be 2577 amounting to $11,873 86 the
expence of collecting which amounted to $276, and for 1803 the
N° of Bills delivered for Collecting to be 2425 amounting to
$27,674.12, the expence of Collecting not settled as will be seen
in papers, N° 5 & 6
The Committee find the aforementioned Accompts to be well
vouched and right cast (so far as they have proceeded in the
business) All which will be more fully understood, from [289]
the Accompts themselves when compared with the Books.
The Committee further Report that from Estimates received
there will be wanting for
The Selectmen $46000
Overseers of the Poor 15200
Board of Health 4000
State Tax 17718
County Tax 14000
$96,918
The Committee therefore are of opinion that the Town of
Boston Vote a Tax to be raised according to law for $100,000 for
the above purposes which is humbly submitted
Thomas Dawes ~)
Samuel Brown >• Committee
Joseph Russell )
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1805. 187
The aforegoing Report having been read & considered the
Question was put whether the same shall be accepted — Passed
in the Affirmative —
Voted, that the sum of Sixty five thousand Dollars be raised
by a Tax to be Assessed on the Polls & Estates of the Inhabitants
of this Town to defray the Expences of the Current Year —
Voted, that the Sum of $300 be allowed and paid to John
Phillips Esq for his services as Town Advocate the Year ensuing.
Voted, that the sum of $666, be allowed and paid to William
Cooper for his services as Town Clerk the Year ensuing.
Voted, that the sum of $816 be allowed and paid to each of
the three Assessors for the Year ensuing. —
On Motion Voted, that the Auditors of Town Accompts be
requested to consider what compensation should be made to the
Treasurer for his own services — those of his Assistants, and for
Office Rent the present Year. —
[29O.] Mr Hunts Petition and Report thereon, having been
read and debate had thereon — the same upon Motion is referred
for further consideration to the Adjournment of this Meeting —
On Motion Adjourned to Monday next 10 oCloek A.M.
Monday the 27th of May 10 oCloek A.M. met according to
Adjournment —
The Committee on the Town Treasurers Application being the
Auditors of the Town Accompts, Reported, without mentioning a
Sum as a compensation for the Treasurer the present Year — his
Application again taken up and after debate Voted, that the
Treasurer be allowed and paid $1500 for the present Year, he to
pay his Clerk Assistance, Office hire and all expences of Office. —
Moved and Voted, to reconsider the Vote of the acceptance of
the Report of the Auditors of Town Accounts so far only as it
respected Mr. Sumner the Town Treasurers Account.
Moved an'd Voted, that the Report of the Committee to Audit
Town Treasurers Accompts &c be recommitted to the Auditors,
for the sole purpose of correcting any errors that may be found
in the Town Treasurers Accounts
The Committee appointed to consider the Petition of Samuel
Hunt the late Grammer S. Master in this Town have attended
that service and have heard him on the subject of his several
188 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
claims for House rent, deprivation and for the loss of future em-
ployment, and in consideration of his having spent the prime of
his life in the service of the Town, and being now advanced in
Years with a large Family to provide for, and the School Com-
mittee having by a Vote declared " that in discharging Mr. Hunt
they do not mean to charge him with the want of disposition to be
useful as an Instructor, or to fix any imputation upon his prin-
ciples and character, but do declare their favourable opinion of his
morals and private virtues and their sense of his right to a good
consideration among his Fellow Citizens," and the said School
Committee by their letter to Mr. Hunt dated the 4th of October
1804. did encourage him to make application to the Town for
an Annual stipend, and that the Committee would assist him in
[291] such application with all their influence.
Your Committee also being impressed with the importance of
giving the greatest possible encouragement to all future Gram-
mer School Masters, by evincing to them the provident care of
the Town in providing for them in old age, if they by their ser-
vices and merit should be entitled to it ; and also taking into con-
sideration the peculiar circumstances of Mr. Hunts case, beg
leave to recommend to the Town to Grant Mr. Samuel Hunt the
late Grammar School Master in this Town the Sum of twenty five
hundred Dollars in full of all demands against the Town, all which
is submitted.
Stephen Codman per Order
The aforegoing Report as read and amended in this Meeting
was accepted by the Town — and on Motion made and seconded
Voted that the Sum of twenty five hundred Dollars be and
hereby is granted to Mr. Samuel Hunt late Grammar School Mas-
ter in this Town, to be in full of all demands against said town.
Voted, that all matters and things unfinished in this Town
Meeting be referred for consideration to the next General Town
Meeting. —
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to Honbl. Thomas
Dawes Esq for his good services as Moderator.
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
[292.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in
public Town Meeting assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the
17th June A. D. 1805 10 OClock A. M.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — Read.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1805. 189
Honbl. Thomas Dawes Esq was chosen Moderator by a Hand
Vote
The Votes for a Town Treasurer & Collector of Taxes being
brought in, counted & sorted, it appeared that the whole number
were found to be 573, of which
William Smith Esq had 436
and was chosen, in the room of Mr Sumner who had resigned,
as per resignation on file
The Article in the Warrant viz "To consider the expediency
of taking measures for the more equal division of the Wards of
the Town " — was read, whereupon
Voted, that the Selectmen, Overseers of the Poor the Members
of the Board of Health, and Brigadier General of the Legionary
Brigade of the 1st Division be empowered and directed to make
such a division of the Town into Wards, as they shall judge most
for the convenience and advantage of the Town —
That the said new division of Wards take place the 1st day of
February next —
That the Representatives of this Town in the General Court
be Instructed to apply to the Legislature for any confirmation or
assent to said division that may be necessary —
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given the Honbl
Thomas Dawes Esq for his good services as Moderator
Then the Meeting was dissolved
[293.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders, and other Inhabit-
ants of the Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned in
public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the
4th day of July A. D. 1805—9 O Clock A. M.
Warrant for calling Meeting — Read
William Cooper chosen Moderator.
The Committee appointed the last Year to make choice of a
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the Anniversary of Inde-
pendence — Reported that they had made choice of Warren Dut-
ton Esq who has accepted of the appointment —
On Motion, Adjourned to Old South Church when
190 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
AN ORATION
to commemorate the Independence of the United States was de-
livered by Warren Button Esq at the Old South Church —
On Motion — Voted, that the Selectmen be a Committee to
wait on Warren Button Esq and in the name of the Town to
thank him for the elegant and spirited Oration this Bay delivered
by him at the request of the Town, upon the Anniversary of the
Independence of the United States of America, in which accord-
ing to the Institution of the Town, he considered the manners
feelings and principles which led to that great National Event —
and to request of him a Copy thereof for the Press —
On Motion Voted, that the Gentlemen Selectmen be and hereby
are appointed a Committee to apply to some one able and learned
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the 4th July A. B. 1806.
that Bay being the Anniversary of the Independence of the
United States of America wherein the Orator is to consider the
feelings manners and principles which led to this great National
event as well [294] as the important and happy effects, whether
general or domestic which have already or will forever flow from
that auspicious Epoch.
Then the Meeting was Bissolved
1806.
At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned in public
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 10th
Bay March A :B : 1806 10 OClock A :M :
Prayer was made by Revd Joseph Eckley B.B.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — Read.
Sundry Laws to be read at this Meeting were accordingly read
Stephen Codman Esq
was chosen Moderator by a Hand Vote
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Town Clerk, and the Votes having been brought in
and counted, it appeared that —
William Cooper
was chosen Town Clerk for the Year ensuing, and the Oath of
Office administered to him by Mr. Justice Bulfinch —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1806. 191
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for 9 Selectmen, and the same having been brought in and
counted it appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen
Charles Bulfinch Esq Mr Ebenezer Oliver
David Tilden Esq Jonathan Hunnewell Esq
William Porter Esq John May Esq
Mr John Tileston Francis Wright Esq
John Bray Esq
Adjourned to 3 OClock Afternoon
[295.] 3 OClock P :M : Town met
Edward Proctor Esq Mr Samuel Snelling
Henry Hill Esq Mr Benjamin Goddard
William Smith Esq Samuel Clap Esq
William Phillips Esq Mr Ozias Goodwin
Redford Webster Esq. Joseph Coolidge Jur Esq
Thomas Perkins Esq Mr William Mackey
were chosen Overseers of the Poor for the Year ensuing.
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for 24 Fire Wards,
when it appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen —
Viz
Thomas Melvill Esq John Bray Esq
Samuel Parkman Esq Mr Thomas Dennie
Amasa Davis Esq Gen1 Simon Elliot Esq
Henry Jackson Esq Jonathan Hunnewell Esq
William Scollay Esq Daniel Messenger Esq
Joseph May Esq Mr Ozias Goodwin
Andrew Cunningham Esq Mr Thomas Curtis
Samuel Bradford Esq Joshua Davis Junr Esq
Joseph Head Esq Mr John D Howard
Thomas H Perkins Esq Mr Benjamin Coats
Gen1 John Winslow Esq William Sullivan Esq
Stephen Codman Esq Mr Benjamin Smith
[296.] Voted, that in addition to the Selectmen twelve
Persons shall now be chosen a SCHOOL COMMITTEE and the Votes
being brought in and sorted, it appeared that the following Gen-
tlemen were chosen Viz
Honb1 Thomas Dawes Esq Arnold Welles Esq
Revd Joseph Eckley DD David Green Esq
Dr Thomas Welch Esq Honb1 John Phillips Esq
Rev* J T Kirkland DD Revd William Emmerson
Dr Aaron Dexter Esq John Heard Esq
William Smith Esq Charles Davis Esq
Voted that the above named Gentlemen who conjunctly with
the Selectmen are termed the /School Committee, be & hereby are
192 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
directed to carry the new System of Education, which has been
adopted by the Town into operation, and said Committee are also
authorized and empowered, conjunctly to manage and regulate
the Officers and the Government of the Schools and in future to
execute all the power relative to the Schools & Schoolmasters,
which the Selectmen or such Committee are authorized by the
Laws of this Commonwealth or the Votes of the Town to exer-
cise ; any former Vote of the Town notwithstanding.
The Votes for a Town Treasurer & Collector of Taxes, being
brought in it appeared that
William Smith Esq
was chosen. —
Votes for a Treasurer of the County of Suffolk brought in and
counted by the Moderator & Town Clerk when it appeared that
the whole number was 213 & that they were all for Ebenezer
Sever Esq a discreet suitable person & a Freeholder and Resident
in said County.
[297.] Votes for a County Register of Deeds, for Suffolk
brought in and counted, when it appeared that the whole number
was 282 — all for William Alline Esq a discreet suitable Person
and a Freeholder & Resident in said County.
The Votes being brought in for a Town Advocate for the
Municipal Court it appeared that
Honbl John Phillips Esq
was chosen
Messrs. Benjamin White
Moses Ayers
Daniel Ingersol Jur
William Darracot
were chosen Fence Viewers for the Year ensuing
Messrs. Barney Conner
James Cabbit [Corbitt?]
were chosen Haywards for the Year ensuing
Messrs. Samuel Emmons
James Phillips
were chosen Surveyors of Hemp for the Year ensuing.
Edward Tuckerman Esq
Mr Josiah Snelling
were chosen Surveyors of Wheat for the Year ensuing
Mess John Wells
William Cooper Hunneman
were chosen Assay Masters for the Year ensuing
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1806. 193
Mess Jonathan Gushing
Joseph Doble
Elisha Turner
Thomas Barbour
were chosen Cullers of Dry Fish for the ensuing Year
Henry Purket Esq
Cap1 Lemuel Gardner
Mr Thomas Barbour
Mr James Eunson
were chosen Cullers of Hoops & Staves for the Year ensuing
The Selectmen
were chosen Surveyors of High Ways for the Year ensuing
[298.] Mr Edward Rumney
was chosen Inspector of Stone Lime for the Year ensuing
Messrs Benjamin White
John Cogswell
Daniel Ingersol Jur
William Clouston
William Darracot
William Ellison
John Butterfield
Nath1 Bradlee Jur
Noah Dogget
Caleb Coolidge
Braddock Loring
Edward Alline
Thomas Christy
William Green
were chosen Surveyors of Boards & Shingles for the Year
ensuing
Voted, that the Honbl Thomas Dawes Esq
Joseph Russell Esq
Samuel Brown Esq
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to Audit the Accompts
of the Town Treasurer & also the Overseers of the Poor & the
Board of Health ; and said Committee are also directed to report
the Sums necessary to be raised for the services of the present
Year
Voted that the consideration of all Money Matters be referred
to May Meeting
The Article in the Warrant Viz " To determine whether the
Town will consider it expedient to take any measures relative to
the rebuilding of the Rope Walks at the bottom of the Common "
194 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
read — whereupon Voted that the Selectmen be a Committee to
consider this matter and Report thereon at the Adjournment.
Cap1 Chapman having declined serving as a Selectman, Voted,
that the Thanks of the Town be given him for his good services
in that Office for a number of Years past.
Mr Gray & Mr Quincy having declined serving as a School
Committee, Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given them
for their good services while on the Committee
' [299.] Mr Judah Hayes & R Gr Amory Esq having declined
serving as Fire Wards, had the Thanks of the Town for their
good services while in the Office of Fire Wards
A letter of Samuel Parkman Esq acquainting the Selectmen
that he had obtained an elegant full length Portrait of the
Immortal Washington copied by an eminent Artist from an
original painting by the celebrated Stuart, and desiring them to
present the Picture in his Name to the Town of Boston, to be
placed in a conspicuous part of Faneuil Hall — having been read
— it was moved and voted that this valuable and pleasing dona-
tion is gratefully accepted by the Town, and ordered to be placed
in Faneuil Hall agreeable to the Patriotic intention of the Donor
Adjourned to Wednesday the 19th of March Inst 1806 10
OClock A. M.
Wednesday the 19th of March A : D : 1806 10 OClock A : M :
Met according to adjournment
Major Bray having by letter declined serving in the Office of
Selectman into which he had been chosen — The Town Voted, to
proceed immediately to the choice of another and the Votes being
brought in for one Selectmen it appeared that
Deacon Joseph Kettell
was chosen
The Selectmen having been directed to consider the subject of
the Rebuilding the Rope Walks at the bottom of the Common,
Report
That the Town in 1794 granted to the Proprietors of the late
Rope Walks the ground on which they stood, for that purpose
and no other use whatever ; and that the Proprietors have done
nothing to forfeit their right of rebuilding upon their complying
with the terms and conditions of the grant from the Town to be
explained as follows
That they make and forever maintain a good and sufficient Sea
Wall at the South of their Ropewalks to be kept in good repair
BOSTON Towx RECORDS, 1806. 195
to the Satisfaction of the Selectmen — That such Proprietors shall
build a Brick Store, or Head to his Rope Walks 30 feet wide in
front, and at least two Stories high — That such Proprietors shall
build his Yarn [3OO] and Tar House & Coppers, in such situ-
ation and in such manner as the Fire Wards shall direct.
Under these conditions and subject to the Restrictions of the
law regulating the erection of Buildings in this Town, the Com-
mittee confide in every reasonable measure to be adopted to
secure the Town from danger from the Ropewalks that may in
future be built on that ground —
The foregoing Report having been read and debate had
thereon— the Question was put, and the Report accepted —
On application of a number of Inhabitants one Surveyor of
Boards &c, was added to those already chosen — and the Votes,
being brought i», it appeared that
Mr Eleazer Homer
was chosen
Voted that any other matter unfinished be referred to May
Meeting
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to Stephen
Codman Esq. for his good services as Moderator —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved
[3O1.] At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town of
Boston of 21 years of age and upwards qualified as the Constitu-
tion prescribes and legally warned in public Town Meeting
Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 7th Day April Anno
Domini 1806 9 OClock A : M :
Prayer was made by the Revd Mr Emerson.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — Read
Paragraphs of the Constitution or Frame of Government relative
to the choice of Governor, Lieut Governor and Senators — Read
It was then declared by the Selectmen that no Vote should be
received but such as are unfolded, and that they propose the Poll
should be closed at 2 OClock P : M : the Votes to be received at
the Table and the Bells to begin ringing at % past 1 OClock and
to continue for half an Hour
Persons Voted for as GOVEKNOUK, with the number of Votes
for each Person Viz
196 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Votes
His Excellency Caleb Strong Esq - .... 2503
Honbl James Sullivan Esq 1605
Honbl Elbridge Gerry 6
Persons Voted, for as LIEUT GOVERNOUR, with the number of
Votes for each Person Viz -- Votes
Honb1 Edward H Bobbins Esq 2444
Honb1 William Heath Esq 1650
Honb1 Henry Knox 3
Honb1 David Cobb - ' 2
Person Voted for as Senators for the County of Suffolk with
the number of Votes for each Person Viz Votes
Honb1 Chris1' Gore Esq 2489
Honb1 Harrison G Otis Esq 2472
Dr William Spooner Esq --,.-. 2452
Honb1 John Phillips, Esq 2484
Peter C Brooks 2472
[•3O2.] Honb1 David Tilden Esq 1684
Russell Sturgis Esq '- 1626
Edward Proctor Esq 1632
Samuel Clap Esq 1625
David Townsend Esq 1622
Attested Copies of the Persons Voted for as GOVERNOUR
LIEUT GOVERNOUR and SENATORS, for the County of Suffolk sealed
up in Town Meeting after the Votes had been declared, and
transmitted to the Secretary of this Commonwealth
Superscribed as follows Viz
For John Avery Esquire
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The number of Votes of the Town of Boston for, Governour
Lieut Governour & five Senators for the County of Suffolk,
Certified within and Sealed up in Town Meeting after the Votes
had been declared
Then the Meeting was Dissolved
[3O3.] At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town
of Boston of 21 Years of Age and upwards qualified as the
Constitution prescribes and legally warned in public Town Meet-
ing Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 4th Day of
May A : D : 1806 9 O Clk A : M :
The Meeting was opened with Prayer by Revd Dr Kirkland
Warrant for calling the Meeting — Read
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1806. 197
That part of the Constitution or frame of Government which
relates to the choice of Representatives — Read
The Town having determined by a Vote to choose 27 Persons
to Represent them in the General Court of Massachusetts to be
held in the State House in Boston on the last Wednesday of May
Current agreeable to the Constitution or Frame of Government
— for Massachusetts ; The Inhabitants were directed by the
Selectmen to withdraw and bring in their Votes for 27 Represent-
atives, and then it was declared by the Selectmen, that no Votes
would be received by them but such as are unfolded and untill
the names of the Persons entering shall be marked on the List
by the Gentlemen who assist for that purpose from the several
Wards and that they propose the Poll shall be closed at 2 OClock,
the Bells to begin ringing at £ past 1 OClock and to continue
untill 2 OClock
The Votes being brought in for 27 Representatives the whole
number was found to be 1258 and upon sorting them it appeared
that the following Gentlemen were chosen, having obtained a
majority of the Votes Viz't
Votes
William Smith Esq 1242
Jonathan Hunnewell Esq 1237
William Sullivan Esq 1241
John Wells Esq 1238
Jonathan Mason Esq 1238
Thomas H Perkins Esq 1238
William Brown Esq 1230
Samuel Parkman Esq 1230
John Winslow Esq 1242
Edward Tuckerman Esq 1238
Deacon Francis Wright Esq 1239
Redford Webster Esq 1238
Thomas Perkins Esq 1242
Daniel Sargent Esq 1240
William Phillips Esq 1239
[3O4.] Stephen Codman Esq 1232
Simon Elliot Esq 1240
Benjamin Russell Esq 1231
Mr Thomas W Sumner 1236
John Callander Esq - 1233
Dr Thomas Danforth 1237
John T Apthorp Esq 1236
Charles Davis Esq 1223
Mr Benjamin Goddard 1227
Mr Thomas K Jones 1236
Benjamin Whitman Esq - - - - - - - 1192
Mr James Lloyd Jur Esq 1239
198 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The choice of Representatives being over and declared by the
Selectmen
The Meeting was Dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston, duly qualified & legally warned in public Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the 15th Day of
May Anno Domini 1806 10 O Clock A : M :
Warrant for calling Meeting — Read.
Honb1 Thomas Dawes Esq
was chosen Moderator by a Hand Vote
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for 6 Trustees for Towns Land, on the Neck, in addition
to the Selectmen who conjunctly, are to Lease and manage said
Lands in such manner as shall appear to them best for the inter-
est of the Town — the Votes being brought in and sorted, it
appeared that
Honb1 Thomas Dawes Esq
Gen1 John Winslow
Honb1 William Brown Esq
• Joshua Davis Jur Esq
Honb1 William Phillips 'Esq
Edward Tuckerman Esq
were chosen.
[3O5.] At a legal Meeting of Freeholders and other Inhab-
itants of the Town of Boston at Faneuil Hall on Monday 10th day
of March A : D : 1806 10 OClock A : M : Voted that the Sub-
scribers " be and hereby are appointed a Committee to Audit the
Accompts of the Town Treasurer Overseers 6f the Poor & the
Board of Health ; and said Committee are directed to report the
sum necessary to be raised for the services of the present Year,"
having attended that service they submit the following Report
viz
The Treasurer Credits the Town of Boston with ~| j)op Q^g
sundry sums of Money received by him to the >
Am' of ) 91998>67
The Treasurer Charges the Town with the sum of - 91998,67
including a balance in the hands of the Treasurer
of $1213,37 May 8th carried to new Account as
represented in paper N° 1
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1806.
199
Paper N° 2 contains the particulars of Cash paid
on sundry Drafts from June 1805 to April 1806 as
pr Acct Curr1 - --
Ballance due to sundry Persons ...
and amount of Moneys paid the Proprietors of S°
Boston Bridge by Note pr Order of the Selectmen -
By amt of outstanding debts pr the late Treasurer's
Books -
By sundry drafts from the Selectmen from June
1805 to April 1806 pr Ace* Curr* Amounting to
Selectmens Drafts
Amt of Cash paid on sundry drafts pr Acct
Current from June 1805 to April 1806 -
Ballance due to sundry persons ...
To Cash paid on sundry drafts from June 1805 to
April 1806 pr Account Current
To Ballance due to sundry persons
Represents the Statement of State and County Taxes
To Cash paid into the State Treasury from June
1805 to April 1806
To Am1 due the State
To Cash paid Ebenezer Seaver C° Treasurer from
June 1805 to April 1806 pr Acct Curr* - - - -
Amount due the County of Suffolk -----
[3O6.] Paper N° 4 Represents the Statement of
Taxes for 1803
Amount due by the late Treasurers Books - - -
By Amt outstanding on Sundry drafts on the late
Treasurers Books -
By Sundry drafts from the Overseers from April
1805 to June 1806
4788.91
1085.98
2277.
51251.89
484.49
50767.40
51251.89
10397. 3
2419.48
12816.51
3301.75
59.83
3361.58
$17672. 0
17718. 0
10730.73
6873.70
$17604.43
$1253.59
516. 3
12300.48
12816.51
200
CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
By Sundry Drafts from the Board of Health f^om
April 1805 to June 1806 Amounting to - - - 3361.58
By Amt due the Commonwealth by the late Treas-
urers Books $17672."
State Tax for 1805 Amt Assessed 17718."
County Tax for 1805
By Amt due on this Tax to the County as by the
late Treasurers Books 3765.43
Tax for 1805 pr Amt Assessed 13839."
$17604.43
By Cash received from June 26 to April 30th 1806
as pr Account Current 135.61
By abatement ------------ 4.10
By ballance due 1113.88
$1253.59
Tax for 1805 due pr the late Treasurers Books $22262.99
Tax for 1805 Amt Assessed $96557."
Ballance of Tax 1803 $1113.88
Ballance of Tax 1804 8790.57
Ballance of Tax 1805 34475.40
$44379.85
Paper N° 5 Represents the Income of the Towns Rents Viz
Old State House pr Year 4900. "
Market Square pr Year 520. "
4 Stalls at $2 pr Week 416. "
4 D° at $1.50 prD° 312."
Deer Island pr Year 300- "
Hay Market Income about 200. "
Salt Marsh 105. "
$6753. 0
[3O7.] By Cash received from June 26 1805
to April 30th 1806 as pr Acct Current - -
By abatements -----------
By ballance due -----
13274.3
198.39
8790.57
$22262.99
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1806.
201
By Cash received from October 1st 1805
to April 30th 1806 as pr Acct Current
By abatements
By premiums allowed
Octr - -
Novemr -
Decemr -
Jan* - -
Febr? -
Ballance due
$1238.1
777.87
67.22
33.14
40.63
$59355.78
568.95
2156.87
34,475.40
$96,557. "
Paper N° 6 Represents Amounts of Notes due Sundry Persons
Viz Benjamin Barker 1544.17
Eliz Partridge 772.8
Selectmen of Boston - - - - 1230. "
Estate of Jn° Gray 107. "
Mary Hammond - 1050. "
Union Bank 8000. "
Tuthill Hubbart ---_-- 3333.33
Russell Sturgis 2800. "
S° Boston Bridge Corpa ... - 2277."
Union Bank 1200. "
$22313.58
i
Paper N° 7 Represents Tryal Ballance
Towns Powder 1041.95
Town Treasurers 6403.29
William Tewksbury 210.82
Notes Receivable ---- 754.13
1803 Tax 1113.88
1804 - --- 8790.57
1805 34475.40
44379.85
Cash Account 1213.37
$54003.41
[3O8.] Notes payable 22313.58
State Tax 17718. "
County Tax 6873.50
Outstanding debts 7098.33
$54003.41
202
CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Paper N° 8 Represents the Estimate for 1806
School Masters
Town Watch
Town Treasurers & Collector
Assessors 3 at $8.16 each
Police Officers
Constables Services
Engines premiums Repaims &c
Monies Voted by Town to Mr Hunt - - -
Repairs of Schools & Firewood - - - -
Lamps Oil & Lighting
Town Clerk
Messenger of Selectmen -------
Judge of Municipal Court & Advocate - -
Printing & Stationery -
Bells and Clocks
Incidental Charges --
Paving Streets -
13000. "
6500. "
1500. "
2448. "
1000. "
300. "
600. »
2500. "
1100. "
5000. "
666.66
300-"
700-"
400-"
400-"
1285-"
8000-"
46000-"
5000-"
10000. "
15000. »
4000. "
Besides the above current charges there is
due the Amt of award for widening Merchants
Row after deducting Subscriptions - - - -
Towards Expence of Enlarging Faneuil Hall -
For Overseers of the Poor
For Board of Health
Amount of Estimate
The Committee find the aforementioned Accounts to be well
vouched and right cast (so far as they have time to proceed in
the Business) all which will clearly appear from the Accounts
exhibited when compared with the Books.
The Committee advise that the Statements by Mr. Treasurer
Smith as reported be Recorded in the Town Book that is kept
in the Selectmens Office, and the said record be [3O9] corn-
paired with said Accompts, as there have been several Treasurers
within a few years many advantages may arise by having
recourse to such records.
The Committee further report that from Estimates received
there will be wanting for the Selectmen including $10,000 towards
repairing Faneuil Hall 61.000-"
For the Overseers of the Poor - ---_-- 15000-''
For the Board of Health 4000 -"
Making $80000-"
They therefore are of oppinion that the Town of Boston Vote a
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1806. 203
Tax for $80,000 according to law for the above mentioned pur-
poses ; which, is humbly submitted.
Thomas Dawes ) -,
, „ }• Comm1**'
Samuel Brown j
N. B. It will be remembered that in addition to the above
Eighty Thousand Dollars There will be a State Tax for the
Seventeen Thousand D° and for County Tax Ten Thousand D°.
making in the whole One Hundred and seven Thousand Dollars
to be assessed for the Current Year.
The aforegoing Report having been read and considered — the
Question was put "Whether the same shall be accepted"
Passed in the Affirmative — and on Motion Voted that the addi-
tional Sum of ten thousand Dollars, be appropriated for widening
and improving Battery March Street and other Streets of the
Town to be applied under the direction of the Selectmen
Voted, that Eighty Thousand Dollars making with the above
appropriation the sum of 90,000 Dollars be raised by a Tax to be
assessed on the Polls and Estates of the Inhabitants of this Town
to defray the Expences of the Current Year.
Voted, that the Sum of $300 — be allowed and paid to the
Honb1 John Phillips Esq for his services as Town Advocate the
Year ensuing.
Voted that the sum of $816 be allowed and paid to each of the
three Assessors for the ensuing Year.
Voted, that the Honb1 William Smith Esq be allowed and paid
as Town Treasurer & Collector of Taxes for the present Year
the Sum of $1500 — he to pay his Clerk, Assistant, Office hire,
and all expences of office.
[31O.] Voted that the Selectmen, be empowered and
.directed to make the Town Clerk such Grants for Salary and the
rise of Provisions as shall be equal to what has been allowed the
Masters of the Writing Schools for the time past and the present
Year —
Voted that the Thanks of the Town be given The Honb1 Tom8
Dawes Esq for his good services as Moderator —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned in public
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Friday the 4th Day
of July A :D : 1806 9 OClock A :M :
204 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Warrant for calling Meeting - - Read
William Cooper
was chosen Moderator
The Committee appointed the last year to make choice of Gen-
tleman to deliver an Oration on the Anniversary of Indepen-
dence
Reported, that they had made choice of Francis Dana Chan-
ning Esq, who has accepted of the appointment —
On Motion Adjourned to the Old South Church, when
AN ORATION
to commemorate the Independence of the United States, was
delivered by Francis Dana Channing Esq at the Old South
Church —
On Motion Voted that the Selectmen be a Committee to wait
on Francis Dana Channing Esq and in the Name of the Town to
thank him for the Elegant and Spirited Oration this day delivered
by him at the request of the Town upon the Anniversary of the
Independence of the United States of America in which accord-
ing to the Intention of the Town he considered the manners feel-
ings and principles which led to that great National Event —
and to request of him a Copy for the Press —
On Motion Voted, that the Gentlemen Selectmen be and hereby
are appointed a Committee to apply to some able [311] and
learned Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the 4th July A :D :
1807, that Day being the Anniversary of the Independence of
the United States of America, wherein the Orator is to consider
the feelings manners .and principles which led to this great
National Event; as well as the important and happy effects
whether general or domestic which have already, or will forever
flow from that auspicious Epoch —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved
At a meeting of Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the Town
of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned in public Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on the 3d Day of November
A :D : 1806 9 OClock A :M :
Prayer was made by Revd Mr Lowell —
Warrant for calling Meeting -------- Read
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1806. 205
Paragraph of a Resolve of the General Court for the choice of
one Representative for the Suffolk District of this Commonwealth
in the Congress of the United States &c Read
It was then declared by the Selectmen that the Poll would be
closed at 2 OClock P :M: the Bells to begin tolling at £ past 1
OClock.
Persons Voted for as Representative for the Suffolk District in
this Commonwealth in the next Congress of the United States —
Viz
HonbUosiah Quincy Esq Sixteen hundred seventy three Votes
James Prince Esq Nine hundred & two Votes
Honbl William Eustice Esq Three Votes
Mr Caleb Bingham One D°
and declaration made thereof in the Meeting by the Selectmen a
return of the doings of this Meeting, made out and put into the
hands of Mr Sheriff Allen to be given to the Honbl Jonathan L
Austin Esq Secretary of this Commonwealth, which return was
in exact conformity to the one inserted in the last Town Officer.
Then the Meeting was Dissolved
[312.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in
public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the
29th Day of December A :D: 1806 — 10 OClock A :M :
Warrant for calling Meeting Read
Joseph Russell Esq
chosen Moderator by a Hand Vote —
The article in the Warrant viz ' ' To take measures for renewing
the Jury Box, according to law — Read — and after consideration
— Voted, that the Selectmen be a Committee to regulate the Jury
Boxes — from the Names laid before the Town for that purpose —
The article in the Warrant "To consider & act upon the claim
of the Heirs of the late Governour Hancock to Land on Beacon
Hill " — read whereupon Voted, that the Selectmen be a com-
mittee to examine and search into this claim employing such
Counsel as they shall Judge proper — and report at March Meet-
ing.
On the Application of Messrs Stutson & Seth Thayer for a
portion of a Passage way leading to Ann Street &c —
Voted that this article in the Warrant, be referred to the Gen-
tlemen Firewards, who are desired to Report thereon at March
Meeting.
206 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The article in Warrant, viz " To choose one or more Agents to
appear in behalf of the Town to defend a Suit instituted by Oliver
Wendell Esq for recovery of Land & Flatts in Battery March
Street being part of the S° Battery & Flatts before the same,
conveyed and warranted by the Town to the late John Rowe Esq
in the Year 1785 " —was read whereupon
Voted, that the Selectmen be and hereby are authorized and
empowered to be Agents for the Town in this Matter, they to
employ such Counsel as they may Judge to be needful —
The article in the Warrant " To empower the Trustees of the
Neck Land, to make an exchange of Land with Messrs Isaac P
Davis & William Pain, to render the boundary line between them
and the Town more convenient — read & considered whereupon
Voted, that the Trustees of the Neck Land be authorized and
empowered to make such exchange of Land with Messrs Isaac P
Davis & Compy as will promote the Interest of [313] the Town
in the arrangement of the Lots, and for that purpose they be
authorized to execute Deeds, to convey so much of the Town Land
as may be necessary & to receive of Messrs Davis & Compy a
good and sufficient Deed of so much of their Land, as in the
Judgment of said Trustees may be just and right.
The article in the Warrant " To empower the Trustees of the
Neck Land to locate a suitable place on the Neck for a Meeting
House & Burying Ground — was read — whereupon
Voted, that the Trustees of the Neck Laud be authorized and
empowered to lay out and assigne a piece or pieces of Land in
suitable situations on the Neck for a Meeting House Lot and
Burying Ground, and that they be empowered to execute Deeds to
convey so much of said Lands as may be necessary to any relig-
eous Association who shall first undertake to build and shall erect
a place of religious worship —
On the article in the Warrant to confirm the proceedings of the
Selectmen with Jonathan Harris Esq relative to a piece of Land
& Water Course in Water Street —
Voted, that the Town would ratify and confirm the agreement
made with Jonathan Harris Esq and for that purpose the Select-
men are authorized & empowered to execute and receive such
Deeds & Instruments as may be necessary —
Matters unfinished refered to March Meeting
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given Honb1 Joseph
Russell Esqr for the good dispatch given by him as Moderator to
the business of the Meeting
Then the Meeting was Dissolved
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1807. 20'
18O7.
[314.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned in
public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the
9th Day of March A :D : 1807 10 OClock A :M :
Warrant for calling the Meeting - - Read
Sundry Laws to be read at this Meeting were accordingly (part
of them) read
Stephen Codman Esqr was chosen Moderator by a Hand Vote,
but by his desire was excused on account of a Cold
Honb1 Joseph Russell Esqr
was chosen Moderator of the Meeting & took the Chair accord-
ingly.
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for a Town Clerk and the same being brought in and
counted it appeared that
William Cooper
was chosen Town Clerk for the Year ensuing, and took the Oath
of Office, which was administered to him by Mr Justice Bulfinch
The Inhabitants, were desired to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for 9 Selectmen, and the same having been brought in and
counted, it appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen —
Viz
Charles Bulfinch Esqr. Jonathan Hunnewell Esqr
David Tilden Esqr John May Esqr
William Porter Esqr Francis Wright Esqr
Mr Ebenezer Oliver Deacon Joseph Kettle
Mr Jonathan Chapman
Previous to the counting the Votes for Selectmen a Motion was
made, which did not obtain, that a Committee might be chosen to
assist the Selectmen in counting and sorting their Votes. —
A Motion was also made & Voted, that the Poll for choice of
Selectmen, be closed, at £ past 12 OClock, but another that no
Votes be counted untill the Poll was closed did not obtain —
[315.] Adjourned untill 3 OClock P.M.
208 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
3 OClock P :M : Town Met
Edward Proctor Esq Mr Samuel Snelling
Henry Hill Esq Mr Benjamin Goddard
William Smith Esq Samuel Clap Esq
William Phillips Mr Ozias Goodwin
Dr Redford Webster Esq Mr William Mackey
Thomas Perkins Esq Joseph Cooledge Jur Esq
were chosen Overseers of the Poor for the Year ensuing
Thomas Melvill Esq Gen1 Simon Elliot Esq
Amasa Davis Esq Jonathan Hunnewell Esq
Henry Jackson Esq Daniel Messenger Esq
Joseph May Esq Mr Ozias Goodwin
Andrew Cunningham Esq Mr. Thomas Curtis
Samuel Bradford Esq Joshua Davis Jur Esq
Joseph Head Esq Mr John D Howard
Thomas H Perkins Esq Mr Benjamin Coates
Gen1 John Winslow Esq William Sullivan Esq
Stephen Codman Esq Mr Benjamin Smith
John Bray Esq John T Apthorp Esq
Mr Thomas Dennie Ignatius Sargent Esq
were chosen Fire Wards for the Year ensuing
[316.] On Motion Voted that the Thanks of the Town be
given to Mr John Tileston for his good services as a Selectman,
a number of Years past
Voted that the Thanks of the town be given to Samuel Park-
man & William Scollay Esq for their good services as Fire Wards,
a number of Years past
The Votes for a Town Advocate in the room of Honb1 John
Phillips Esq who had resigned that Office ; being brought in
counted and sorted, it appeared that
Peter Thatcher Esq
was chosen into that Office
Voted, that in addition to the Selectmen 12 Persons shall now
be chosen a School Committee and the Votes being brought in
and sorted it appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen
Viz
Honb1 Thomas Dawes Esq
Revd Joseph Eckly D D
Dr Thomas Welch Esq
Revd J T Kirkland D D
Dr Aaron Dexter Esq
William Smith Esq
Arnold Wells Esq
David Green Esq
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1807. 209
Honb1 John Phillips Esq
Revd William Emerson
John Heard Esq
Charles Davis Esq
Voted, that the above named Gentlemen who conjunctly with
the Selectmen are termed, the School Committee be and hereby
are directed to carry the new System, of Education which has
been adopted by the Town into operation, and said Commee are
also authorized and empowered conjunctly to manage and regulate
the officers, and the Government of the Schools, and in future to
execute all the Powers relative to the Schools & Schoolmasters,
which the Selectmen or such Committee were authorized by the
Laws of the Commonwealth or the Votes of the Town to exercise,
any former Votes of the Town notwithstanding
[317.] The Votes for a Town Treasurer & Collector of
Taxes, being brought in & sorted, it appeared that
William Smith Esq
was chosen —
Votes for a Treasurer of the County of Suffolk brought in and
counted by the Moderator & Town Clerk when it appeared that
the whole number was 306 and that they were all for Ebenezer
Sever Esq a discreet suitable Person, and a Freeholder and
resident in said County
Messrs Benjamin White
Moses Ayers
Daniel Ingersol Jur
were chosen Fence Viewers for the Year ensuing
Messrs Barney Connor
Joseph Cobbit
were chosen Hogreeves for the Year ensuing
Messrs Barney Connor
Joseph Cobbit
were chosen Haywards for the Year ensuing
Messrs Samuel Emmons
James Phillips
were chosen Surveyors of Hemp for the Year ensuing.
Edward Tuckerman Esq
Mr Josiah Snelling
were chosen Surveyors of Hemp for the Year ensuing
Messrs John Wells
William Cooper Hunneman
were chosen Assay Masters for the Year ensuing
210 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Messrs Jonathan Gushing
Joseph Doble
Thomas Barbour
David Rich
were chosen Cullers of Dry Fish for the Year ensuing
Henry Purkit Esq
Capt Lemuel Gardner
Mr Thomas Barbour
Mr James Eunson
were chosen Cullers of Hoops and Staves for Year ensuing
[318.] The Selectmen
were chosen Surveyors of the Highways for the Year ensuing.
Mess Benjamin White Mess Noah Dogget
John Cogswell Caleb Coolidge
Eleazer Homer John Butterfield
William Green Daniel Ingersoll
Thomas Christy William Clouston
Edward Alline William Ellison
f Nath1 Bradley Jur Joseph Stodder
Braddock Loring
were chosen Surveyors of Boards & Shingles for the Year
ensuing.
Voted that Honb1 Thomas Dawes Esq
Joseph Russell Esq
Samuel Brown Esq
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to Audit the Accounts
of the Town Treasurer and also those of the Overseers of the
Poor ; and the Board of Health ; and said Committee are directed
to Report the Sum necessary to be raised for the services of the
present Year —
Voted, that the consideration of all Money Matters be referred
to May Meeting —
Voted, that all Matters, unfinished at this Meeting be referred
to May Meeting.
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be and hereby is given to
Joseph Russell Esq for his good services as Moderator of this
Meeting —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved
[319.] At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town of
Boston of 21 Years of age and upwards, qualified as the Constitu-
tion prescribes & Legally warned in public Town Meeting
Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 6th Day of April
Anno Domini 1807 9, O'Clock A : M :
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1807. 211
Prayer was made by the Revd Dr Lothrop —
The Town Clerk informed the Meeting, that all the Gentlemen
chosen Selectmen for the present Year agreeable to a late Act
of the General Court qualified themselves for that OfBce by taking
the following Oath Viz ' ' That they would faithfully and impar-
tially discharge the duties of their Office respecting all Elections
and the returns thereof " which Oath was administered to them by
John Gardner Esq Justice of the Peace
Att William Cooper Town Clerk
Warrant for calling the Meeting — Read
Paragraph of the Constitution or Frame of Government rela-
tive to the choice of Governor L* Governor & Senators — Read
It was then declared by the Selectmen that no Votes shall be
received but such as are unfolded, and that they propose the
Poll should be closed at 2 OClock the Bells to begin tolling at
% past 1 OClock and to continue for £ an Hour — the Names to
be marked off before given in
Persons Voted for as GOVERN OUR with the number of Votes for
each Person
Votes
His Excellency Caleb Strong Esq - - - - 3149
Honb1 James Sullivan Esq - ... 2806
Elbridge Gerry Esq ------ 5
Harrison G Otis Esq ----- l
Theodore Sedgwick 1
Thomas Lewis ------- l
Charles P Sumner Esq 1
Benja Austin Esq ------ l
Persons Voted for as Lieut Governour with the number of Votes
for each Person Viz
Votes
Honb1 Edward H Robins Esq - - - - - 3110
Honb1 Levi Lincoln Esq 2108
George Cabot Esq 2
David Cobb Esq - 2
[3 2O.] John C Jones Esq 3
John Q Adams Esq 4
William Eustis Esq ------ l
Richard Edwards 1
Elbridge Gerry Esq 1
Thomas O Selfridge 1
Persons Voted, for as Senators for the County of Suffolk with
the number of Votes for each Person Viz
212 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Votes
Honbl Harrison Gray Otis Esq - - 3063
Honbl Christopher Gore Esq - - - 3146
Honbl William Spooner Esq - - - 3132
HonblJohn Phillips Esq - - - - 3140
Honbl Peter C Brooks 3133
Honbl William Eustis Esq - - - - 2112
Honbl David Tilden Esq - - - - 2110
Samuel Brown Esq - - - - 2110
Russell Sturgis Esq .... 2104
Coln Edward Proctor - - - 2103
Thomas Lewis 1
Thomas H Perkins 1
James Sullivan Esq 1
Thomas K Jones - 1
James Lloyd 1
Benja Russell 1
Dr John Warren 2
Oliver Wendell Esq 1
Capt John Prince 1
Stephen Higginson Esq - - - - 1
Jonathan Mason Esq ----- l
Thomas Welch 1
John Wells Esq ------- 1
Augustus Hunt 1
Dr David Townsend 2
Stephen Gorham Esq ----- l
John Tileston - : 1
Samuel Clap -------- 1
James Prince Esq - 1
Benja Bussey 1
John Winslow Esq 1
Henderson Inches 1
Stephen Thayer 1
Attested Copies or returns of the Persons Voted for as
GOVERNOR LT GOVERNOR & Senators for the County of Suffolk,
sealed up in Town Meeting after the Votes had been declared ; to
be transmitted to the Secretary of the Commonwealth as prescribed
by law and directed as follows Viz
For Honbl Jonathan L Austin Esqr
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The number of Votes of the Town of Boston for Governour
Lu* Governour & Five Senators for the County of Suffolk, Certi-
fied within and sealed up in Town Meeting after the [321] Votes
had been declared. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1807. 213
At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town of Boston
of 21 Years of age and upwards qualified as the Constitution
prescribes & legally warned in public Town Meeting Assembled
at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 13 Day of May A :D : 1807 —
9 OClock A :M :
The Meeting opened with prayer by Revd Dr Elliot
Warrant for calling this Meeting — Read
That part of the Constitution or Frame of Government which
relates to the choice of Representatives — Read
The Town having determined by a Vote to choose 27 Persons
to represent them in the General Court of Massachusetts to be
holden in the State House in Boston on the last Wednesday of
May Current, agreeable to the Constitution or Frame of Govern-
ment for Massachusetts ; the Inhabitants were directed by the
Selectmen to bring in their Votes for Representatives not exceed-
ing 27 ; and then it was declared by the Selectmen that no Votes
would be received but such as are unfolded and untill the Name
of the Person entering shall be marked on the list by the Gentle-
men assisting for that purpose from the several Wards, and that
they propose the Poll should be closed at £ past 1 OClock, the
Bells to begin ringing half an hour before, and to continue
untill the close of the Poll
The Votes being brought in for 27 Representatives the whole
number was found to be 880 * and upon sorting them it appeared
that the following Gentlemen were chosen having obtained a
majority of the Votes, Viz
Votes
William Smith Esq 877
Jona Hunnewell Esq 873
William Sullivan Esq 879
John Wells Esq 877
Jona Mason Esq - - - - 876
Thomas H Perkins Esq 874
William Brown Esq - 876
Samuel Parkman Esq 871
John Winslow Esq 871
Edward Tuckerman Esq 872
Deacon Francis Wright 873
Redford Webster Esq 875
Thomas Perkins Esq 873
Daniel Sargent Esq 874
William Phillips Esq 875
*The whole number of votes, and the number for each person voted for, does not
appear on the Town Records, but is taken from the original memorandum by the
Town Clerk.
214 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Stephen Codman Esq 874
Simon Elliot Esq 872
Benjamin Russell Esq 874
Mr Thomas W Sumner 871
John Callender Esq 873
Dr Thomas Dan forth 877
John T Apthorp Esq 872
Charles Davis Esq - 872
Mr Benjamin Goddard 875
Mr Thomas Kilby Jones 872
Benjamin Whitman Esq 864
Mr James Lloyd Jur 876
The choice of Representatives being over and declared by the
Selectmen
The Meeting was Dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the 14th
Day of May Anno Domini 1807 — 10-OClock A :M : -
W arrant for calling Meeting - Read
Joseph Russell Esq
was chosen Moderator by a hand Vote
The Inhabitants, were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for 6 Trustees for Towns Lands on the Neck, in addition
to the Selectmen, who conjunctly are to manage said Lands, in
such manner as shall appear to them best for the Interest of the
Town — the Votes being brought in and sorted it appeared that
Honbl Thomas Dawes Esq
[323.] General John Winslow
Honbl William Brown Esq
Joshua Davis Jur Esq
Honbl William Phillips
Edward Tuckerman Esq
were chosen.
Mr John D Howard & John T Apthorp Esq the former having
resigned & the latter having declined serving as Fire Wards
Mr Henry Fowle
Mr Samuel Sweet
were chosen in their room.
On Motion Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to
Mr John D Howard, for his good services as Fire Ward several
Years past
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1807. 215
Mess Benjamin Rice
Allen Bowker
were chosen Surveyors of Boards & Shingles in addition to the
16 before chosen — on application therefore, by a number of In-
habitants —
Mr John Deluce
was chosen into the Office of Hogreeve & Hayward for South
Boston
The Article in the Warrant Viz ' ' To consider and act upon the
petition of James Ivers and others whether the Town will consent
to waive the condition on which the Grant of the Mill Pond was
made, and to permit the same to be filled up by the Proprietors ;
or to any other act & thing respecting the Premises, which may
cause or suffer to be effected the purposes therein contemplated ' '
— was read, After long debate thereon — It was moved and
Voted that the consideration of this Article with the Petition —
be referred to a Committee of five Persons to be chosen by nomi-
nation being called for the following Gentlemen were chosen Viz
Joseph Russell
Samuel Brown
Judge Davis
[324.] James Prince
John "Wells — Esquires
and said Committee are requested to make Report thereon at the
Adjournment of this Meeting
It was then moved & Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to
Monday the 25 Day of May Inst 10 O-Clock A: M:
Monday May 25th 10 O-Clock A: M: met according to ad-
journment.
The Moderator in the Chair
The Selectmen to whom was committed the consideration of
the Claim of the Heirs of Governour Hancock to Land on Beacon
Hill — ask leave to Report
That they have examined the Town Records relative to this
subject, have conferred with the Claimants and examined their
Deeds, and have advised with the most eminent counsel — and
after all the investigation in their power they find that" the Town
has been possessed of a certain portion of the Hill from the
earliest period of its settlement — that the Deeds to Thomas Han-
cock do not comprise the other part of the Hill now Claimed by
the Applicants but that the Town has been long in the use and
uninterrupted possession of it
The Selectmen therefore propose, that the Town should em-
power Agents to maintain and defend their right to said Land
216 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
and to prosecute all encroachments or trespasses that may be
made on the same —
The aforegoing Report having been read it was accepted by
the Town and the Gentlemen Selectmen were appointed Agents
on the business and are fully empowered to maintain and defend
the Towns right in said Land —
The Committee of Fire Wards, on the Petition of Amasa
Stutson & Seth Thayer, Reported, that it was their unanimous
opinion that the prayer of the petition should not be granted —
and the question being put for accepting this report — it was
accepted by the Town accordingly —
The Votes, being brought in for a School [325] Committee
Member in the room of Col° Thomas Dawes who had resigned —
it appeared that
John Davis Esq
was chosen.
Votes being brought in for one Trustee of the Towns Lands on
the Neck — in the room of Col" Dawes who had resigned it
appeared that
William Hammet Esq
was chosen
On Motion'Voted unanimously that the Thanks of the Town be
and hereby are given to the Honbl Thomas Dawes Esq for his
good and faithfull services in the several Offices he has sustained
for a long course of Years past —
The Committee on Petition relative to filling up the Mill Pond
— Reported, and the same having been read it was moved and
Voted, that this Report be referred to another Meeting for consid-
eration, and that the same be published in all the Papers —
Moved & Voted, that the foregoing Vote be so far altered, as
that the said Report be printed in Hand Bills and distributed
among the Inhabitants for a more full inspection, before the
Adjournment of this Meeting
The Committee on Town Treasurers Accompts and other
Money Matters — Reported — and thereupon it was moved &
voted, that said Report be printed in hand bills and distributed
amongst the Inhabitants for their inspection
The application of the Judge of the Municipal Court for
further Compensation — was read — and on motion Voted that
James Prince Esq
John Wells Esq
Samuel Brown Esq
be a Committee to whom this Matter is referred for consideration
and to Report at the Adjournment
Adjourned to Monday 8th of June next 10 OClock A :M :
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1807. 217
[326.] Monday the 8th of June 1807 10 O-Clock A :M :
Met according to Adjournment
An Application of a number of Inhabitants for another Hay-
ward to be appointed for the Southern part of the Town more
especially the Neck
Joseph Bacon
was chosen a Hay ward for the present Year
The Committee appointed to take into consideration the appli-
cation of the Honbl Thomas Dawes Junr Judge of the Municipal
Court for the Town of Boston for an augmentation of his
Salary — Report that in their opinion the Salary of Judge
Dawes should be augmented to Seven Hundred & fifty Dollars
per Annum
James Prince per order
The aforegoing Report having been read and considered the
Question was put, whether this Report be accepted by the
Town — Passed in the Affirmative —
The Report of the Committee relative to filling up the Mill
Pond, which had been printed in hand bills for the inspection
of the Inhabitants — was read several times and after long
debate — the Question was put — Whether this Report shall be
accepted — which passed in the Negative —
Whereupon it was moved & Voted, That a Committee of seven
be appointed as Commissioners on the part of the Town with full
powers to meet such person or persons as may be appointed in
behalf of the Mill Proprietors with equal powers, and to treat
and negotiate with them for a relinquishment of all the rights and
claims of the Town to the Mill Pond and Lands under the same
or parts thereof and to conclude & bargain for the same on such
terms and conditions as they may Judge most for the interest of
the Town, and the doings of said Commitee when duly ratified &
confirmed by the Town & Mill Proprietors shall be binding for-
ever upon all parties. — also
Voted, the Selectmen nominate and appoint the Commissioners
on the part of the Town
[327.] Adjourned to Monday the 15th of June Ins —
10 OClock A:M:
Monday the 15th June 10 o-Clock A :M : Met according to
adjournment
The Town having at their late Meeting 8th Inst impowered the
Selectmen to nominate & appoint seven Commissioners to treat
and negotiate with the Mill Corporation as fully expressed in the
218 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Towns Vote of that date — The Selectmen have accordingly pro-
ceeded to execute the trust reposed in them ; and after much
deliberation have unanimously made choice of the following
named Gentlemen as Commissioners for the purpose aforesaid
Honb1 John Q Adams Esq
Honb1 William Brown Esq
Honb1 John Davis Esq
William Parsons Esq
John Joy Esq
Dr Redford Webster
Capt Tristram Barnard
and they have signified their willingness to accept the trust and
have entered upon the duties thereof —
The Subscribers, a Committee chosen by the Town March 9th
1807, to Audit the Accounts of the Town Treasurer, Overseers of
the Poor and the Board of Health ; and to report the sum necessary
to be raised for the present Year having attended that service
ask leave to Report —
They have examined the Accompts of the several Departments,
find them right cast and well vouched, The Treasurers Accounts
as follows by his Trial Ballance Viz
1807. $ C
April 30 To Towns Powder 1041.95
To Notes Receivable for Notes due
the Town
To Ballance due the Town on
the several Taxes
Viz Tax - --- 1803 - - - - 1032.81
" " - ... 1804 - --- 6857.57
" " - ... 1805 - - - - 9139.49
" " - - - - 1806 ---- 45927.89
To Cash on hand 641.98
$65395.82
April 30
By Notes payab1 for sundry
Articles for Money borrowed D. C
for Use of the Town 24308.48
By Ballance due the
State Tax - 1806 18017.33
Ditto on C° Tax 2189.27
Due on Selectmens drafts - - - - 7253.58
Overseers- - - Do - - - - 2917.15
Board of Health 405.88
Due Wm Tukesbury 74.15
Town Treasury 9665.54
Due Trustees Neck land 562.44
65395.82
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1807. 219
[328.] The Committee Report an Estimate for present Year
as follows
School Master & Ushers $13,300
Repairs of Schools Fire Wood &e - - 1,100
Town Watch 6,500
Town Treasurer & Collector - - - - 1,500
3 Assessors at 816 Dollars each - - 2,448
Police Officers ----.--- 1000
Constables Services ------ 300
Engine Repairs & Premiums - - - - 400
Lamps Oil & lighting 5000 —
Town Clerk - - 1000 —
Messenger & Doorkeeper to Selectmen 500 —
Judge of Municipal Court & Advocate 800 —
Printing & Stationery ----- 400 —
Bells & Clocks 400 —
Regulating & Paving Streets - - - 10000 -
Overseers of the Poor 18000 —
Board of Health 5000 —
To complete the payment for j 20000 -
repairs of Faneuil Hall - - - - j
Incidental Charges 2132 —
$90,000 —
In the following Accounts the Town will find all the particular
expences Viz
Nr 1 — Mr Smith's general Account
2 — His Trial ballance
3 — Selectmens Drafts and monthly payments
4 — Overseers Drafts - - - - ditto
5 — County of Suffolk - - - - "
6 — Board of Health - - - - "
7 — Outstanding Debts - - "
8 — Treasurers Accounts of Faneuil Hall
9 — Accounts of Rents Annually received Amtg to $9142
This sum will be increased this Year nearly $2000
when all the Arangement of the Market is com-
pleted
The Committee have also examined the Accounts of the Agents
for enlarging Faneuil Hall and find them well vouched ; the
whole Amount of expences of the enlargement by particular Acct
herewith handed in is $50692^^ which Expences have been in
part paid by proceeds of Land on Fort Hill 16185 and Taxes
last Year 10,000 26,185 —
[329.] Selectmen have been empowered to sell )
Towns land near S° Bridge for which they have >• 11,000
been offered )
Ballance provided for in the Estimate for this Year 19,507.67
$56,692.67
220 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
From the above Statement your Committee are of opinion
that the Town raise Ninety Thousand Dollars to defray the Ex-
pences of the Town for the present Year, all which they submit —
Your Committee have also heard the Agents on their claims for
compensation for attending the enlargement of Faneuil Hall, and
are of opinion that they ought to have allowed them 1 pet on
the Amount which will be $566.92 —
Joseph Russell | r^ tee
Samuel Brown j
The aforegoing Report having been read and considered — the
Question was put "Whether the same shall be accepted —
Passed in the Affirmative —
Voted that the Sum of Ninety Thousand Dollars be raised by
a Tax to be assessed on the Polls and Estates of the Inhabitants
of this Town to defray the Expences of the Town the Current
Year —
Voted that the Sum of Seven hundred & fifty Dollars be
allowed and paid unto the Honb1 Thomas Dawes Jur Esq for his
Salary as Judge of the Municipal Court —
Voted, that the Honb1 William Smith Esq be allowed and paid
as Town Treasurer & Collector of Taxes for the present Year the
sum of $1500 — he to pay his Clerk, Assistant & Office hire, and
all expences of Office.
Voted, that the sum of 1000 Dollars be allowed and paid unto
William Cooper for his Salary as Town Clerk the year ensuing
Voted, that the Sum of 816 Dollars be allowed and paid to
each of the three Assessors, for their services in that Office the
Year ensuing
Moved & Voted, that when this Meeting be adjourned it shall
be to Wednesday the 8th Day of July 10 OClock A : M : and the
Inhabitants be informed thereof by Notification —
And the Meeting was accordingly Adjourned
[33O.] Town Met according to Adjournment July 8 10
OClock A : M :
The Committee relative to Mill Pond having notified the Select-
men that they should not be ready to Report at this Adjournment,
and they having informed the Inhabitants thereof in the public
Prints
It was Moved & Voted, that this Meeting be further Adjourned
to Monday the 20th July Inst* 10 OClock A : M : and that the
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1807. 221
Selectmen notify the Town thereof by Handbills dispersed
amongst the Inhabitants
Monday July 20th 10 OClock A : M : Met according to
adjournment and the Committee on Mill Pond not being ready to
Report the Meeting was further adjourned to Meet on Monday
the 3d August 10 OClock A : M :
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned in public
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Saturday the 4th Day
of July A : D : 1807 9 O'Clock A : M :
Warrant for calling Meeting Read
William Cooper
was chosen Moderator
The Committee appointed last Year to make choice of a Gen-
tleman to deliver an oration on the Anniversary of American
Independence
Reported that they had made choice of Peter Thatcher Esq
who had accepted of the Appointment
On Motion adjourned to Old South Church when
AN ORATION
to commemorate the Independence of the United States was
deli vered by Peter Thatcher Esq at the Old South Church —
On Motion Voted, that the Selectmen be a Committee to wait
on Peter Thatcher Esq, and in the Name of the Town to thank
him for the elegant & spirited Oration this Day delivered by him
at the request of the Town upon the [331] Anniversary of the
Independence of the United States of America in which accord-
ing to the Institution of the Town, he considered the manners
feelings & principles which led to that great National Event
and to Request of him a Copy thereof for the Press
On Motion Voted, that the Gentlemen & Selectmen be and
hereby are appointed a Committee to apply to some one learned
& able Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the 4th of July A :D :
1808 — that Day being the Anniversary of the Independence of
the United States of America wherein the Orator is to consider
the feelings manners & principles which led to this Great
National Event ; as well as the important & happy effects,
whether General or Domestic which have already or will forever
flow from that auspicious Epoch
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
222 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the 16th
July A :D : 1807. 10 OClock A :M :
Warrant for calling Meeting Read.
Honb1 John C Jones Esq
chosen Moderator by a Hand Vote
Communication from the Committee of Correspondence of the
City of Norfolk Virginia laid before the Town by the Selectmen
and after reading the same it was moved & Voted, that
Honb1 John Q Adams Esq
Honb1 Harrison G. Otis Esq
Honb1 William Eustis Esq
[332.] Honb1 Christopher Gore Esq
Dr Charles Jarvis Esq
Honb1 John C Jones Esq
Honb1 T H Perkins Esq
be a Committee to consider the Communication and to Report as
soon as may be to the Inhabitants who will remain in Meeting to
receive their Report
The Town being informed that two Gentlemen of the Comm66
were not in Meeting it was moved & Voted that the
Honb1 Jona Mason Esq
Dr John Warren Esq
be added to the Committee.
In about an hour the Committee entered the Hall and made the
following Report, by their Chairman Mr Adams — Viz —
Whereas by the Communication from Norfolk, Portsmouth &
their vicinities, and the Proclamation of the President of the
United States, it appears that the sovereignty of our Country has
been insulted, and the lives of our Citizens sacrificed by the
unjustifiable conduct of a British Armed Ship —
1st Resolved, That we consider the unprovoked attack on the
United States Armed Ship the Chesapeake by the British Ship of
War, the Leopard, a wanton outrage upon the lives of our Fellow
Citizens, a direct violation of our National honour and an
infringement of our National Rights and Sovereignty —
2. Resolved, That we most sincerely approve the proclamation
and the firm & dispassionate course of policy, pursued by the
President of the United States, and we will cordially unite with
our Fellow Citizens in affording effectual support to such measures
as our Government may further adopt in the present crisis of our
affairs —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1807. 223
3. Resolved, That we remember with pride & pleasure the
patriotic & spirited conduct of the Citizens of Norfolk, Ports-
mouth, and their Vicinities, before the orders of the Government
were known upon this momentous occasion, and they are entitled
to the thanks and approbation of their Fellow Citizens throughout
the Union —
[333.] 4th Resolved, That the Selectmen be requested to
return a suitable answer to the respectfull comunication from our
Fellow Citizens of Norfolk with the proceedings of this Meeting.
The Town were informed that the Committee were unanimous
in their Report — And the Question being put — Whether this
Report shall be accepted — Passed in the affirmative unanimously,
and with great applause
The Moderator had the Thanks of the Town for his good
services —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved
Monday the 3d Day of August 10 OClock A.M. Met according
to Adjournment of May Meeting
The Committee relative to the Mill Pond, Reported, and laid
before the Town the Agreement or contract made with the Mill
Proprietors — the Report having been several times read — A
motion was made that the same be referred to an Adjournment
of this Meeting & that the Report & Contract be printed & dis-
tributed amongst the Inhabitants and the question being put it
passed in the negative — It was then moved that the Report of
the Committee be now put for the acceptance of the Town & the
motion being accordingly put it passed in the Affirmative by a
vast majority —
The Report is as follows —
Boston July 24 1807
The Commissioners appointed by your respectable Board in
conformity to the object of their appointment and the powers
with which they were invested have concluded a Contract with
the Proprietors of the Boston Mill Corporation, subject to the
ratification of the Town of Boston.
In stipulating for a relinquishment of the rights and [334]
claims of the Town to the Mill Pond : the following conditions
are expressly secured Viz
That all claims & controversies relative to Abutters on the
Pond be settled by Arbitration or rule of Court if they cannot be
otherwise satisfactorily adjusted —
224 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
That the Mill Creek be continued by the Proprietors of its
present width to Charles River —
That the western Flood Gates, be restored and kept open so
long as the Selectmen shall require —
That suitable accommodation be provided for the Baptist
Churches pursuant to existing agreements between those Churches
& the Proprietors
That such common Sewers shall be carried through the Pond as
the Selectmen shall direct.
That the filling up the Pond shall be with such materials as the
Selectmen shall approve
That Streets shall be laid out & completed fit for paving
according to a plan delineated by the Chairman of the Selectmen,
under certain specified restrictions' —
That all necessary Bridges over any Canals that may be reserved
shall be made at the expence of the Proprietors
That a square of Land of One Acre filled up at or near the
center of the Pond, be reserved for the use of the Town to be
disposed of at their discretion —
That the whole Pond & Flatts appurtenant shall be filled up at
the expence of the Proprietors within Twenty Years
That one eight part of the whole Premises filled up shall be
conveyed to the Town in fee simple free of all expences to the
Town —
That one half of such part of the Premises as shall not within
twenty Years be filled up or boxed so as to exclude the water in
manner equivalent to filling up — shall be and remain the sole
property of the Town ; and finally, That the Town shall be
indemnified from all expence, loss or damage from any of the
operations of the Proprietors in the proposed improvements. —
[335.] Those stipulations which relate to the public ac-
commodation were readily adjusted, It has been more dificult to
determine the proportion of the property to which the Town
should become entitled upon the release of the present conditions,
and to regulate the manner of connection with the Proprietors —
Various views of the subject were presented to the consider-
ation of the Commissioners, arising from mutual estimate pro-
portions. The terms on which the actual adjustment is made,
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1807. 225
while they secure the execution of the contemplated improve-
ments, in suitable manner & within a reasonable period of time
will give certain pecuniary benefit to the Town, without risque or
expence, This definite emolument with other collateral benefits,
secured by the contract, the Commissioners conceive to be a fair
equivalent for the Town's interest in the property, estimating that
interest to be the one half of the present value of the premises. —
A greater nominal proportion might indeed have been obtained
by becoming Joint Sharers in the Corporation but in the estima-
tion of the Commissioners the terms on which they have decided
present a more eligible basis, and the eventual profit will in their
apprehension be equal if not superior to the advantages which
might probably be derived from any connection with the concern
by shares, that has been proposed —
The Contract has been carefully framed and it is presumed
embraces every requisite for a definitive compromise — and for
the prevention of future controversy or misunderstanding between
the Parties — In this persuasion and with sincere wishes for a
prosperous & satisfactory result of this intended enterprise we
submit the Instrument that has been executed to the decision of
our Constituents. —
We have the honour to be Gentlemen with great respect —
Your Obed1 Servants
by the Order of the ) John Davis Chairman
Commissioners J
The Selectmen of Boston
[336.] On Motion Voted, that the Selectmen be and hereby
are authorised and fully empowered to carry the conditions of the
aforementioned Agreement & Contract which has been ratified by
the Town, into full effect
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to Joseph Russell
Esq for the dispatch given the business of the May Meeting
Then the Meeting was Dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified & legally warned, in public Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 9th Day of
December A :D : 1807 — 10 OClock A :M :
Warrant for calling the Meeting ------- Read.
Honbl Joseph Russell Esq
chosen Moderator by a hand Vote —
226 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The Article in the Warrant — viz — " Upon the Application of
a number of the Inhabitants to consider the petition & representa-
tion of Perkins Nichols to the Town praying for consideration &
indemnity for his losses on Building a Street across the Mill
Pond " — was read and debated — whereupon it was moved —
That the said Petitioner have leave to withdraw his petition & rep-
resentation— and the Question being accordingly put — Passed
by a great majority in the Affirmative
On Motion Voted that the Thanks of the Town be given to the
Honbl Joseph. Russell Esq for his good services as Moderator. —
Then the Meeting was dissolved
18O8.
[337.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston, duly qualified & legally warned, in
public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall, on Monday
the 14th day of March Anno Domini 1808. 10. O'Clock A.M.
Prayer was made by Rev. Dr. Eckley.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read.
Sundry Laws or extracts of Laws to be read at this Meeting —
were according — read.
Hon. Joseph Russell Esq. was chosen Moderator of this
Meeting.
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw & bring in their
Votes for a Town Clerk, & the same being brought in & counted,
it appeared that William Cooper was chosen Town Clerk for the
year ensuing & took the oath of Office which was administered to
him by Mr. Justice Bulfinch.
A motion was made, but did not obtain That a Committee be
chosen to assist the Selectmen in counting their Votes. —
Voted that the Poll for choice of Selectmen be closed at half
past 12 °Clock. —
The Inhabitants were desired to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for 9 Selectmen, & the same have having been brought in
& counted; [338] it appeared that the following Gentlemen
were chosen — viz.
Charles Bulfinch Esq. John May Esq
David Tilden Esq Francis Wright Esq.
BOSTOX TOWN RECORDS, 1808. 227
William Porter Esq. Dea Joseph Kettle
Mr. Ebenr. Oliver Jonathan Chapman Esq.
Jona Hunnewell Esq (all Sworn)
The Votes for a Town Treasurer & Collector of Taxes for the
present year, being brought in & sorted, it appeared that —
William Smith Esq — was chosen.
Edward Proctor Esq. Mr Samuel Snelling
Henry Hill Esq. Mr. Benja. Goddard
William Smith Esq. Sam1 Clap Esq
William Phillips Esq. Mr Ozias Goodwin
Bedford Webster Esq. Mr. William Mackay
Thomas Perkins Esq. Joseph Coolidge Junr. Esq.
were Chosen overseers of the Poor for the year ensuing.
[339.] Thomas Melville Esq. Dan1 Messinger Esq.
Henry Jackson Esq. Mr Tho8 Curtis
Joseph May Esq. Josha Davis Junr Esq
Andrew Cunningham Esq Benjamin Smith
Joseph Head Esq. Benjamin Coates
Thomas H Perkins Esq Wm Sullivan
Gen. John Winslow Mr Ignatius Sargent
Stephen Codman Esq. Mr. Sam1. Sweet
John Bray Esq. Bryant P. Tilden Esq.
Mr Thomas Dennie Mr Edwd Cruft
Gen. Simon Elliot Cap* Barker Baker
Jonathan Hunnewell Esq Ja8. Phillips Esq.
were chosen Fire Wards for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Ozias Goodwin & Henry Fowle had a Vote of thanks
for their good services as Fire Wards the past year.
Amasa Davis Esq Samuel Bradford Esq. having also declined
serving as Fire- Wards, had the Thanks of the Town for their
good & long services in that Office. —
Adjourned to 3 °Ck P.M.
3 O'Clock P.M. Town met.
Voted, that in addition to the Selectmen 12 Persons shall now
be chosen a /School Committee & the Votes being brought in &
sorted it appeared that the following Gentlemen were Chosen —
viz.
Kev. Joseph Eckley D.D.
Dr. Thomas Welch
Dr. Aaron Dexter
Arnold Welles Esq.
Rev. J. T. Kirkland
William Smith Esq
228 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
David Greene Esq.
[34O.] Hon John Phillips Esq
John Heard Esq .
John Davis Esq.
Rev. Wm Emmerson
Charles Davis Esq.
Voted that the above named Gentlemen who conjunctly with
the Selectmen are termed the School Committee be and hereby
are directed to carry the new System of Education which has
been adopted by the Town into operation, and said Committee
are also authorized & empowered conjunctly to manage & regu-
late the officers & the Government of the Schools, & in future to
execute all the power, relative to the Schools and School Masters
which the Selectmen or such Committees were authorized by the
laws of the Commonwealth or the Votes of the Town to exercise —
any former Votes of the Town notwithstanding. —
Votes for a Treasurer of the County of Suffolk brought in &
counted by the Moderator & Town Clerk ; when it appeared that
the whole number was 293, and that they were all for Ebenezer
Seaver Esq. a discreet suitable Person, and a Freeholder and
Resident in said County — and delivered return to Ebenr Seaver
for Court of Sessions. —
Messrs. Benja. White, John Cogswell, Will"1. Clouston,
William Ellison, John Butterfield, Nath1. Bradlee Jr, Noah
Dogget, Caleb Coolidge, Braddock Loring, Edwd. Alline, Thomas
Christy, William Green, Eleazer Homer, Joseph Stodder, Allen
Bowker, Benjamin Rice, Will"1 Ellison Jur. were chosen Sur-
veyors of boards & Shingles for the year ensuing.
[341.] Messrs. Joseph Doble, Jonathan Gushing Thomas
Barbour, James Ellison, Nath1. How, John Smith, Daniel Cutter,
Gershom Spear, Charles Pook, Ziba Thayer, Hezh. Hudson &
Benja. Clark were chosen Cullers of dry Fish for the Year
ensuing. —
Messrs Henry Purkett, Lemuel Gardner, Thomas Barbour &
James Eunson — were chosen Cullers of hoops & Staves for the
year ensuing. —
Messrs. Benja. White, Moses Ayres & William Ellison, were
chosen Fence Viewers for the year ensuing. —
Messrs. Barney Connor Jas. Cabbot, Joseph Bacon, John
Deluce, Rufus Harrington, were chosen Hogreeves for the year
ensuing. —
Messrs. Barney Connor Jas. Cabbot, Joseph Bacon, John
Deluce, Rufus Harrington, were chosen Haywards for the Year
ensuing. —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1808. 229
Messrs. Samuel Emmons & James Phillips were chosen sur-
reyers of Hemp for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Edwd Tuckerman & Josiah Snelling were chosen sur-
veyors of Wheat for the year ensuing.
Messrs. John Wells & Wm C. Hunneman were chosen Assay
Masters for the year ensuing.
The Selectmen ... were chosen Surveyors of Highways
for the year ensuing
Messrs Francis James & Silas Francis were chosen Inspectors
of Lime for the year ensuing.
[342.] The Petition of Mr Perkins Nichols "that the
Town would agree with him upon the terms of completing Pond
Street, & grant him such further Relief as may appertain to
equity & Justice" — was read & debated — and the question
being put Whether said Petition may be withdrawn — passed in
the Affirmative almost unanimously and in a very full Meeting.
David Tilden Esq. having by Letter requested the Town that
they would accept of his resignation as a Selectman, into which
office he had been again chosen — his request was accordingly
granted — and on Motion
Voted, Unanimously, that the Thanks of the Town be given
him for his good & faithful Services as a Selectman for Thirteen
years past.
On Motion — Adjourned to Monday the 28th of March 10
°Clock A.M.
Monday the 28th of Marck 10 o'Clock AM.
Met According to Adjournment.
Deacon Kettell having declined serving further as a Select-
man — it was moved and Voted that the Thanks of the Town be
given him for his good & faithful services while in Office. —
The Votes being brought in for two Selectmen in the room of
David Tilden Esq. & Deacon Kettell who had resigned — it
appeared that
Mr Nathan Webb - - - - 321
Mr Joseph Foster - - - - 320
were chosen.
[343.] The Votes being brought in to fill the vacancy in the
School Committee from the resignation of Rev. Doct1' Eckley —
it appeared that
Rev. William E. Channing was chosen unanimously.
230 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Voted unanimously that the Thanks of the Town be given the
Rev4. Joseph Eckley D.D. for his good & faithful Services as one
of the School Committee for a number of years past. —
The Votes, being brought in for one Fire Ward in the room of
Mr Tilden, who declines serving, it appeared that —
Mr Nath1. Curtis was chosen unanimously.
Mr Joseph Bacon having declined serving as a Hogreeve &
Hayward into which office he had been chosen —
Mr Samuel Winchester — was chosen a Hayward and Hogreeve
for the Year ensuing.
The business of March Meeting being finished, it was moved &
Voted unanimously, that the Thanks of the Town be given Joseph
Russell Esq. for his good services in giving dispatch to the Busi-
ness of the Meeting. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[344.] At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town
of Boston of 21 years of age and upwards, qualified as the Con-
stitution prescribes & legally Warned in public Town Meeting
Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday 4th day of April Anno
Domini 1808. 9 "Clock A.M.—
Prayer was made by the Rev. Joseph Clay. —
The Town Clerk informed the Meeting that all the Gentlemen
chosen Selectmen for the present year, had agreeable to a late
act of the General Court qualified themselves for that office, by
taking the following Oath viz. — " That they would faithfully &
impartially discharge the duties of their Office respecting all
Elections, and the returns thereof" which Oath was administered
to them by John Gardner Esq. Justice of the Peace. —
attest William Cooper Town Clerk.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read.
Paragraph of the Constitution or Frame of Government rela-
tive to the Choice of Governor Lieu1. Governor & Senators - -
read. —
It was then declared by the Selectmen that no Vote shall be
received but such as are unfolded & that they propose the Poll
shall be closed at 2 °Clock P.M. the Bells to begin tolling at half
past 1 oClock & to continue for half an hour.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1808. 231
Persons Voted for as GOVERNOUE with the number of Votes
for each Person, viz
His Excellency James Sullivan Esq 2118.
[345.] Honbl". Christopher Gore Esq. .... 2610
Honble. Caleb Strong Esq. 3
Honble. John Coffin Jones Esq. - 1
Honble. John Adams Esq. 1
Honble. Elbridge Gerry Esq 3
Mr John Roulstone 1
Persons Voted for as Lieu1. Governour with the number of
Votes for each person viz.
Honble. Levi Lincoln Esq 2119 —
Honble. David Cobb Esq 2624 —
Honble. John Q. Adams Esq 1
Mr William Young - 1
Persons Voted for as Senators, for the County of Suffolk,
with the number of Votes for each person viz. —
Honble. Harrison G. Otis Esq. 2615
Honble. William Spooner Esq 2622
Hon. John Phillips Esq 2623
Hon. Peter C. Brooks Esq 2620
James Lloyd Junr Esq 2623
Hon. William Eustis Esq 2121
David Tilden Esq 2119
Samuel Brown Esq 2119
Russell Sturgis Esq 2118
Col. Edward Procter Esq 2118
Stephen Codman Esq ------- 1
John Welles Esq 1
Hon Christopher Gore Esq 2
Hon John C. Jones Esq 1
Peter Thacher Esq 1
[346.] Attested Copies or returns of the Persons Voted for
as Governour, Leu*. Governour & Senators for the County of
Suffolk sealed up in Town Meeting after the Vote had been
declared, to be transmitted to the Secretary of the Common-
wealth as prescribed by Law, and directed as follows viz.
To Hon Jonathan L. Austin Esq.
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. —
The number of Votes of the Town of Boston for Governour
Lieu*. Governour dbfiue /Senators for the County of Suffolk cer-
tified within & sealed up in Town Meeting, after the Votes had
been declared.
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
232 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
[347.] At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town
of Boston of 21 years of age & upwards qualified as the Constitu-
tion prescribes & legally warned in public Town Meeting
Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 11th of May Anno
Domini 1808. 9 O'Clock A.M.
The Meeting opened with Prayer by Rev. Mr. Buckminster.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read. —
That part of the Constitution or Frame of Government which
relates to the choice of Representatives — read. —
The Town having determined by a Vote to choose 31 persons
to represent them in the General Court of Massachusetts to be
holden in the State House in Boston on the last Wednesday of
May current, agreeable to the Constitution or Frame of Govern-
ment for Massachusetts ; the Inhabitants were directed by the
Selectmen to bring in their Votes for Representatives not exceed-
ing 31. — And then it was declared by the Selectmen that no
Votes would be received by the Selectmen but such as are
unfolded and untill the Name of the person entering shall be
marked on the list by the Gentlemen assisting for that purpose
from the several Wards & that they propose the Poll should
be closed at £ past 2 oClock. the bells to begin tolling half an
hour before & to continue untill the close of the Poll. —
[348.] The Votes being brought in for 31 Representatives,
upon sorting them it appeared that the following Gentlemen were
chosen, having obtained a Majority of the Votes — viz
Christopher Gore William Smith
William Brown Jona. Huunewell
John Welles William Phillips
Stephen Codman Benjamin Russell
Daniel Sargent Tho8. W. Sumner
John Callender Benja. Goddard
Benja. Whitman John T. Apthorp
Thomas Danforth Charles Davis
Stephen Higginson Jr. Charles Jackson
Joseph Head Will1". H. Sumner
James Robinson Jona. Chapman
Benja. Bussey Thomas Dennie
Joseph Coolidge Jr. Francis D. Channing
Isaac P. Davis John Parker
Ebenr. T. Andrews Ignatius Sargent
William Hammatt Esquires.
The choice of Representatives was then declared by the Select-
men. —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1808. 233
of those Voted for, who did not obtain a Choice, The following
7 ' O
Gentlemen had the number of Votes set against their respective
names — viz. —
William Eustis 1250
Russell Sturgis 1249
David Townsend 1249
Dan1. Baxter 1248
David Tildeu 1249
Jona. Harris 1249
Caleb Bingham 1248
Thomas Page 1248
Ed. Procter 1249
Jacob Rhoades 1249
Ebenr. Larkin 1248
Will"1. Jarvis 1248
The Meeting was then Dissolved.
[349.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston duly qualified & legally warned in pub-
lic Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the
12th day of May Anno Domini 1808. — 10 "Clock A. M.
Warrant for calling the Meeting read
Stephen Codman Esq
was chosen Moderator by a hand Vote.
The Inhabitants brought in their Votes for 6 Trustees for
Towns land on the Neck in addition to the Selectmen who con-
junctly are to lease & manage said lands in such manner as shall
appear to them best for the Interest of the Town — the Votes
being brought in & sorted it appeared that —
Hon. William Browne Esq.
Hon. William Phillips Esq.
William Hammatt Esq.
Gen1. John Winslow
Joshua Davis Jun1' Esq.
Edw*1. Tuckerman Esq.
were chosen.
The Selectmen informed the Town that it would take further
time, before they should be ready to report on the new Act rela-
tive to Jurors. —
Voted, That this Meeting be Adjourned to Monday the 13th
Day of June next — 10 oClock A.M then to meet at this
place. —
234
CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
[35O.] Monday 13h Day of June 1808. 10 °Clk A.M.—
Met according to Adjournment.
The Subscribers a Committee chosen by the Inhabitants March
14th 1808. to Audit the Accounts of the Town Treasurer, Over-
seers of the Poor, Board of Health &c &c and to Report the sum
necessary to be raised for the present year, having attended that
service, beg leave to Report. —
They have examined the Accounts of the several departments
& find right cast & well vouched — Treasurers Accounts as
follows —
-able -
1803 -
381.50 By Notes payable)
1,026.51 for Money Borrd. j"
26,706.98
1804 -
6,488.46 State Tax - - -
19,543.33
1805 -
7,932.0 County Tax - - -
11,641.85
1806 -
15,994.31 Wm Tukesbury - -
74.15
1807 -
51,111.64 Trustees for Neck")
24.
T ind
1>*IIH I y
ount
169.21 Town Treasurer
13,684.64
Dolls
83103.63 Outstanding Debts -
11,428.65
$83,103.60
The Abatements on 1804, 1805 & 1806, have not been [paid]
since making up the above Accounts, the Treasurer has received
upwards of $17,000 Dollars, which has been paid to discharge
part of the above sums. —
The Committee Report an Estimate for the Present Year —
as follows
School Masters &
Ushers ...
Repairs of schools
& Wood
Town Watch - -
Town Treasurer ")
& Collector f
Am0 b*. forw*. - - 22,400—
13,300 Three Assistants - 2,448
Town Clerk - - - 1,000
1,100 Constables services - 700
6,500 Judge Municipal
1,500 Court ' 75°
Doll8 27,298—
22,400
[351.] Amount brought over 27,298—
Police Officers - - 1,000
Paving Streets - - 8,000
Messenger & Door Keeper to Select-
men ----- 400
Engine Repairs & Premiums - - - 600
Lamps, Oil & Lighting Lamps - - 5,000
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1808. 235
Printing & Stationary ----- 400
Overseers of the Poor 16,000
Board of Health 5,000
Bells & Clocks 400
Incidental Charges ------ 1,902
Doll8. 66,000—
From the above Statement your Committee are of opinion that
the Town should raise Sixty Six Thousand Dollars to defray
the expences of the Town the present year, all which is submitted
by — Joseph Russell.
The foregoing Report having been read & considered — the
Question was put — ' ' Whether the same shall be accepted " —
Passed in the Affirmative — whereupon
Voted, that the sum of Sixty Six Thousand Dollars be raised
by a Tax to be Assessed on the Polls & Estates of the Inhabi-
tants of this Town to defray the Expences of the Town the Cur-
rent Year.
Voted, that the sum of Seven hundred & fifty Dollars be
allowed and paid unto the Honbl. Thomas Dawes Jr. Esq for his
Salary as Judge of the Municipal [352] Court the present
year. —
Voted, That the HonUe. William Smith Esq. Town Treasurer
& Collector of Taxes the present year [should have] the sum of
61500, he to pay his Clerk, Assistant Office hire, and all expences
of Office. —
Voted, that the Sum of One Thousand Dollars be allowed &
paid unto William Cooper for his Salary as Town Clerk, the year
ensuing.
Voted, that the sum of $816 be allowed & paid to each
of the three Assessors, for their services in that Office the year
ensuing. —
On Motion Adjourned to Monday 27th of June Instant
10. O'Clock A.M. in order to receive the Report of the Committee
relative to regulating Jury Boxes. —
June 27th 1808. 10 O'Clock A.M. Met according to Adjourn-
ment. —
The late Law relative to Jurors — was read —
The Selectmen Report and Present Lists of Persons in their
opinion best qualified for the Jury Boxes — One list for the
236 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Grand & Traverse Jurors and the other list for the Petit Jurors,
at the Court of Common Pleas — They find the whole number of
names to be 5,300 — after deducting such persons as were
excused by Law, of those they present a list of one quarter part,
being 1306 for the first Box & 1447 for the Second Box. —the
same being accepted by the Town — It was moved, and after
debate Voted, that the Selectmen be a Committee [353] to
regulate the Jury Boxes, so as best to answer the intentions of
the law. —
On Motion Voted, That in consideration of the Duties &
services which devolve upon the Selectmen, Overseers of the
Poor, Members of the Board of Health, Fire Wards & the
Engine-men of this Town — The Committee for revising &
arranging the. lists for the Jury Boxes be directed to omit putting
the names of all such persons in either of the Boxes.
On Motion Voted, That the Thanks of the Town be given to
Stephen Codman Esq. for his good services as Moderator in
dispatching the business of the Meeting. -
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[354.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston duly qualified & legally warned in Public
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 4th Day
of July A.D. 1808. — 9 O'Clock A.M.
William Cooper chosen — Moderator. —
The Committee appointed the last year to make choice of a
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the Anniversary of Inde-
pendence, Reported, That they had chosen Andrew Ritchie Junr.
Esq. who has accepted of the Appointment —
Adjourned to the Old South Church 12 O'Clock noon.
AN ORATION
to commemorate the Independence of the United States was
delivered by Andrew Ritchie Jur. Esq. at the Old South Church —
On Motion Voted, That the Selectmen be a Committee to wait
on Andrew Ritchie Junr. Esq. and in the name of the Town to
Thank him for the Elegant & Spirited Oration this day delivered
by him at the request of the Town, upon the Anniversary of the
Independence of the United States of America in which accord-
ing to the Institution of the Town, he considered the manners,
feelings & principles which led to that great National Event —
and to request of him a copy thereof for the Press. —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1808. 237
On Motion Voted, That [355] the Gentlemen, Selectmen be
& hereby are appointed a Committee to apply to some able &
learned Gentleman to deliver aa Oration the 4th of July A.D.
1809. — that day being the Anniversary of the Independence of
the United States of America, wherein the Orator is to consider
the feelings, manners & principles which led to this great
National Event; as well as the important & happy effects,
whether general or Domestic which have already or will forever
flow from that auspicious Epoch. —
Then the meeting was Dissolved.
[356.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified in Public Town Meet-
ing Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Tuesday the 9th Day of
August, 10 °Clock A.M. 1808.
Warrant for calling the Meeting - - read.
Joseph Russell Esq.
chosen Moderator by a hand Vote — not being present
Stephen Codman Esq.
was chosen Moderator by a hand Vote & took the Chair
accordingly. —
The Petition for calling the Meeting read — as also the Notifi-
cation for said purpose, when the Hon1. Jonathan Mason Esq —
after a number of remarks on the subject offered the following
Motion in the form of a Resolve — viz —
Resolved, that it is expedient for this Town respectfully to
Petition the President of the United States, to suspend the
Embargo either wholly or partially according to the powers
vested in him by the Congress of the United States ; or if any
doubt should exist as to the sufficiency of those powers, that he
be requested to call Congress together as soon as possible and
that a Committee of seven be appointed to prepare & submit to
the Town a petition in Conformity — after a spirited debate of
some length the Motion to adopt the Question as [357] pro-
posed by Mr. Mason passed by a very great Majority. —
The following Gentlemen were then chosen on the Committee —
viz. —
Hon Jona Mason Esq
Mr Daniel Sargent
Hou Christopher Gore Esq
Arnold Wells Esq
Hon John Phillips Esq
Mr James Perkins
Hon William Brown Esq
238 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The Town then added the Moderator, Stephen Codman Esq and
on Motion Adjourned to 4 oClock P.M. Then to receive the
Report of the Committee. —
4 O'Clock P. M. Met according to Adjournment when the
Committee Reported the following Memorial which was read from
the Chair, and passed almost Unanimously. —
To the President of the United States.
The Inhabitants of the Town of Boston in legal Town Meeting
Assembled, beg leave respectfully to represent. —
That uniformly influenced by a sense of Patriotism, & a respect
for the Constituted Authorities of their Country, they have sus-
tained without opposition or complaint the embarassments & losses
arising from the existing embargo on the vessells & export trade
of [358] the United States : and they trust that the history of
the revolutionary war, & the annals of the present government
will furnish ample testimony of their readiness to make any per-
sonal sacrifices & to endure any privations which the public
welfare may truly require. —
That they are fully aware of the indispensable necessity of sup-
porting at all times, the laws enacted by the Government of their
choice. Under this impression they have refrained from express-
ing the wishes they most sensibly feel for the removal of the
Embargo, & but for the great events in Europe, which materially
change the aspect of our foreign relations, they would yet silently
wait for the Meeting of Congress, in the hope of obtaining from
that Honourable Body relief from the pressure of this great cal-
amity, which bears with peculiar weight on the Eastern States. —
Denied by nature those valuable & luxuriant Staples which
constitute the riches of the south, they necessarily owe much of
their prosperity under the Blessing of Heaven to their own enter-
prize & Industry on the Ocean. —
It is therefore a duty as well as a right to avail themselves of
every fair occasion which may offer, for procuring the removal
of the existing restraints upon their maritime Commerce, more
especially when this may be [359] Effected in a mode consistent
with the laws & policy by which they were imposed. —
They therefore pray that the Embargo in whole or in part may
be suspended according to the powers vested in the President by
the Congress of the United States, & if any doubt should exist
of the competency of those powers they would humbly request that
the Congress may be convened as early as possible, for the pur-
pose of taking the subject into their consideration
It was then Voted, that the Selectmen in behalf of the Town
transmit this Petition to the President of the United States. —
On Motion of Hon. William Brown Voted, that the Selectmen
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1809. 239
be a Committee to communicate the proceedings of the Town to
the Selectmen of the other Towns of the Commonwealth, and to
request them, if they see fit, to lay the same before their several
Town's for their concurrence. —
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to Stephen Cod-
man Esq. Moderator of this Meeting for his good services
therein. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[36O.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified & legally warned, in
public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday
the 7th day of November, A.D. 1808. — 9 oClock A.M. —
Prayer by Revd Mr Huntington. —
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read.
Paragraph of a Resolve of the General Court for choosing one
Representative for Suffolk district — read. —
Bells to begin tolling at 2 °Clock —
Poll to be closed at £ past two O' Clock, as declared by the
Selectmen. —
Persons Voted for as a Representative for the Suffolk District
in this Commonwealth in the next Congress of the United States —
viz.
Honble Josiah Quincy Esq. Twenty five hundred & thirteen
William Jarvis Jun. Thirteen hundred & ninety five
Honble William Eustis Esq. Two, Tho8 Lewis Jr. One.
and declaration made thereof in Town Meeting by the Selectmen —
A return of the doings of this Meeting made out & put into the
hands of Mr Sheriff Allen to be given to the Hon William Tudor
Esq., Secretary of this Commonwealth, which return was conform-
able to the one in the Town Officer. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
18O9.
[361.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston, duly qualified & legally warned in public
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 23d
Day of January A.D. 1809. 10 °Clock Forenoon
240 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The Meeting was opened with prayer, by Dr Lathrop.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read.
Col Perkins was chosen Moderator by a hand Vote — having
excused himself from sei-ving
Stephen Codman Esq
was chosen Moderator, & took the Chair Accordingly.
Hon Tho8. H. Perkins presented a number of Resolutions, for
the consideration of the Town —
A previous Motion of Dr. Eustis for a short Adjournment did
not obtain. —
The Resolutions, being distinctly read and debate had
thereon — the Question was largely called for — & being put —
Whether said Resolutions shall be accepted — Passed in the Affir-
mative by a very respectable majority.
It was then moved & Voted — that a Committee of seven be
appointed to draw a Petition to the General Court conformable
to said Resolutions — Whereupon the Nominations being called
for — The following Gentlemen were chosen — viz. —
[362.] Hon Thomas H. Perkins Esq. Hon J. C. Jones Esq.
Hon Samuel Dexter Esq. Dr Joseph Warren Esq.
William Sullivan Esq Hon Jona Mason Esq
Theodore Lyman Esq
An Adjournment being moved — Voted, that this Meeting be
Adjourned to Tuesday next 10. O'Clock A.M.
Tuesday Jan? 24th — 10. O'Clock A.M. Met according to
Adjournment —
The Committee appointed on the Yesterday, to prepare a Peti-
tion to the General Court, conformably to the Resolutions then
passed — Reported the following draft — which being read &
largely debated, was accepted by a large Majority of Citizens,
in a crowded Assembly and is as follows viz. —
To the Honourable the Senate, & House of Representatives of
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, The Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston, in legal Town Meeting Assembled, respectfully
represent. —
That they are constrained to apply to your Honourable Body,
as the immediate guardians of their rights & liberties, for your
interposition, to procure for them, relief from the greivances,
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1809. 241
which they now suffer, & those which they have reason to appre-
hend, under the operation of the Laws of the General Govern-
ment, abolishing foreign commerce, [363] and subjecting the
coasting trade to embarrassments, which threaten its anni-
hilation. —
That the provision of the Constitution of the United States
which declares, that all powers, not expressly delegated to them,
are reserved to the respective States, or to the People, we con-
ceive to be a fundamental principle of the confederation.
We submit to the consideration of the Legislature, whether
this most important maxim has not been violated, by the passing
of an Act, in the first instance permanently prohibiting foreign
commerce, and thus subjecting this all important object of the
National Government, to the pleasure of the Executive and one
third part of the Senate. So extravagant an Exercise of Power
was calculated to excite jealousy & alarm, and to rouse a spirit
of opposition among a people, of thousands of whom it may be
Affirmed that their home is on the Ocean, and with respect to all
of whom, it is certain, that their prosperity, by the unchangeable
circumstances of local situation, immemorial habits, and the
established relations of society, is absolutely dependent on Com-
m -rce. —
Your Memorialists were not, however swift to condemn, nor
rash to violate the provisions of the first Act, they were on the
contrary disposed to acquiesce in a measure [364] which, tho
beyond their comprehension might have originated in circum-
stances not disclosed to them. — They trusted to the assurances
of the Executive Message, that it was merely a measure of pre-
caution ; and to the imperious necessities of the Nation, that its
duration would be short. — But as the projectors of this experi-
ment advanced to the maturity of their system, the mask was
gradually lifted ; and while official communications at home and
abroad, insisted upon the merely pacific, and preservative charac-
ter of the Embargo Laws, it was disclosed, from other sources,
that their true features were those of hostility and coercion ; and
the Administration, and their friends, no longer conceal, that the
Embargo is "War in disguise," and is soon to be followed by
open War.
In the process — of this experiment the truth of opinions which
were at once familiar to the well informed and soon apparent to
all, the folly of the supposition, that the commerce of the New
World was indispensable to the existence, or even comfort, of
Nations which had flourished many thousand years before its
discovery, became sufficiently manifest to cover with confusion
all its supporters, whose intellects were not infected by the pride
of system, the passions of party, or by foreign predilection. To
Great Britain the measure was not probably, unacceptable, as it
has operated most Auspiciously upon [365] her Colonies,
teaching them the fatal secret of their entire independence of our
country, and stimulating them to a successful competition with
us, in those branches of commerce, which have been almost ex-
242 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
clusively our own. — To France this abandonment of the Ocean,
is grateful, as it is a substantial compliance with the mandates
issued by her, to her Vassal Nations ; and in this view it has
received the open approbation of the Emperor. —
Against Great Britain & France it is equally impotent as a
measure of coercion ; but to our own country it is fraught with
absolute destruction. — It is our Country only that it deprives of
H commerce, which after having been long suspended, may be
irrecoverably lost. It is our Country alone, that must be con-
vulsed, and rent, by the dissensions growing out of this unprec-
edented system of violence, imposed by one section of the Union
upon the other. — It is by our Country only, that this system
must be felt & deprecated, as a Judgment of God, decending on
a Nation through the infatuation of its Rulers.
Your memorialists beg leave further to remind your Honour-
able Body, that the National Government not content with abol-
ishing by standing laws, that commerce which it is one of their
principal [366] functions to protect, have thought themselves
authorized to resort to those means of compelling obedience which
are never necessary, except when despotism opposes its terrors
to the established habits and opinions of a people. — A late Act
has accordingly been passed for enforcing the Embargo, the provi-
sions of which are so repugnant to the Constitution and to the
first principles of a free Government, that on this subject your
Memorialists want language to express their grief and abhor-
rence. —
Under colour of this Law, a Citizen is subjected to penalties,
and forfitures, though not privy to any breach of its provisions.
He may be charged with, & convicted, of crimes and Offences,
though innocent of intentions to commit them. — He is subject to
unreasonable searches, & seizures of property, upon mere suspi-
cion of an intention to violate the Law, and the discretion of an
interested Officer is the standard, by which the reasonableness of
the suspicion must be tested. — His Vessels, his Warehouse, the
most secret, and sacred depositories of his property & effects,
not excepting his Habitation, are liable to be ransacked, upon
mere suspicion by a military force under general instructions
from the President of the United States ; and when by the act of
God, he is prevented from complying with the requisitions of the
statute, [367] he is deprived of the benefit of his tryal by Jury
(unless he can furnish a species of evidence, which will be in
most cases, impossible) and must rely for mercy upon the mere
will and pleasure of an individual dependent on Executive favour.
In short as the Act alluded to will be before your Honours, it
is superfluous to swell the grevious commentary to which every
section is fairly liable. We in all duty & humility, therefore,
call your attention to it as an Act oppressive beyond any prec-
edent in this country, and requiring from us the exercise of all
the patience, & moderation, of all the self-denial, and sacrifice
of feeling to our love of order and respect for the Authority of
the Government of the Union, of which we are capable. — We
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1809. 243
are unable to assign any adequate motive that could have led our
rulers to the adoption of the measures which we have stated,
excepting a deliberate determination to pursue a system, which
might involve us in such calamities, as seem to make a war
inevitable without such motive they could have no interest in pro-
ducing unnecessary sacrifices and violations of principle — when
we view the course of measures, which the Government of the
United States have of late pursued, and listen to the declaration
made by its advocates, that war is inevitable, we are reluctantly
driven to the conclusion that it has been predetermined [368]
on & sought ; and that less regard is paid to the necessity or
justice of this war, than to its subserviency to the views of the
dominant party. —
But against whom is this war to be waged ? undoubtedly against
Great Britain. For under whatever aspect of hostility, towards
both of the Belligerents, war may be commenced, it is most mani-
fest that it would be continued against one only, and it is but
too probable, that it would soon involve an alliance with the other.
The effects of such an alliance with a nation, whose only distinc-
tion between friends and enemies, consists in heaping upon the
former, the greatest weight of injuries, and oppression, is so well
depicted in the history of our own times, as to require no illustra-
tion from us. with such an ally every victory would be deplored
as a defeat; & final success would be certain ruin. —
Thus situated, our hope & consolation rest with the Legislature
of our state, to whom it is competent to devise means of relief
against unconstitutional measures of the General Government.
That your powers are adequate to this object is evident from
the organization of the confederacy ; and is admited in the
elementary treatise upon the Federal constitution written, in part,
by the President of these States —
We refrain from suggesting Expedients : but we rely on you
to show, that while Massachusetts is second to none of the States
in her attachment to the Union, Liberties & honour of the Nation,
she cannot [369] admit the right, assumed by the National
Government of compelling her to abandon the Ocean to renounce
commerce, to change the habits of her industry, and submit to be
the victim of a desolating policy ; but above all we do confidently
rely on you, to convince our National Rulers, that we ought not,
and cannot submit to be plunged into a ruinous, & unnecessary
war with any European Nation. —
We solemnly pledge ourselves, and everything dear to Free-
men, to support whatever measures the Legislature of this Com-
monwealth may think proper to adopt to preserve the rights &
Liberties of our Country.
T. H. Perkins per Order
It was then moved & Voted, that the Gentlemen, the Selectmen
be a Committee to present this Petition to the Legislature in
behalf of the Town.
244 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Cap*. Daniel Sargent then arose & offered the following addi-
tional Resolutions, which he read in his place, & which being
seconded and presented to the Chair they were then read by the
Moderator, & passed without debate. — viz.
Whereas the Inhabitants of the Town have expressed, in their
Memorial to the Legislature of this State," their opinions on the
aspect of our national affairs to the general system of Policy
adopted by the National Government, [37O] and whatever
difference of opinion may have heretofore existed on these sub-
jects, yet all men who value personal security and civil Liberty,
must now concur in reprobating the arbitrary, unjust, & tyrannical
provisions of the act passed on the ninth of this month, for en-
forcing the Embargo Laws ; and it is therefore expedient to
declare more fully the sentiments & feelings of the Town on this
subject ; And, Whereas, this act is in many respects repugnant
to the Constitution of the U. States, the State Constitution, and
to the fundamental principles of all free Governments ;
Inasmuch, as the enjoyment and use of our property, instead of
being defined & protected by " /Standing Laws" are subjected
to the arbitrary will of the President, & to the caprice, the igno-
rance or malevolence of Officers, who may be appointed by him,
who are authorized to refuse to one Citizen what is permitted to
another, and to interdict at one time what was allowable &
lawful at another :
Instead of being "secure from unreasonable searches and
seizures," we are exposed to the arbitrary power of those officers
who, at their own discretion, or according, to secret instructions
which they are bound to obey, are authorized to violate all our
possessions, to seize any property which they may think fit to
consider suspicious, and detain it untill bonds are given to any
amount which they may choose to require.
[371.] An attempt is even made to deprive us of all remedy
by having recourse to the laws and Courts of Justice, where if we
complain of injuries committed under this act, by an officer of the
United States, he is to be justified and defended not according to
published and " Standing Laws " but by secret & changeable in-
structions from the President. — By this act one Citizen is liable
to be seriously punished for the conduct of another, with whom,
he has no connection whatever, and over whom he has no
control. —
Owners of vessels laden under the inspection of Custom house
officers, with special per mis si on of the Collectors, and the express
sanction of the Laws are now treated as offenders, & subjected to
heavy pecuniary penalties and losses, & are liable even to forfeit
the whole, in consequences of a proceeding which was at the time
lawful and justifiable. — When exposed by inevitable accident to
the rigorous penalties of this act, the citizen is required to excul-
pate himself by a species of evidence, in many cases impossible to
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1809. 245
be produced, and is then left to sue for mercy and pardon to the
STAR CHAMBER decisions of an Executive officer. And
finally, By this Act our property may be seized and detained by
military force ; thereby preventing a resort to the civil tribunals
& laws of the Country, and destroying subordination of the
military to the civil Authority; the standing Army & Militia
may be employed for this purpose [372] by any petty officer
empowered by the Administration, who may thus at their
pleasure involve us in all the horrors of a civil war, or expose us
to the more dreadful alternative of a Military Despotism.
Therefore Resolved, That we will not voluntarily aid or assist in
the execution of the Act passed on the ninth day of this month,
for enforcing the several Embargo Laws ; and all those who shall
assist in enforcing on others the arbitrary & unconstitutional
provisions of this act, ought to be considered as enemies to the
Constitution of the United States and of this State, and hostile
to the Liberties of this People. —
Resolved, That the raising a large standing Army in a time of
profound peace with the name and title of " Volunteers" for the
purpose of enforcing Arbitrary & unconstitutional Laws, & the
attempt to place the Military above the civil authority — though
it cannot overaw or dismay this great & powerful People — yet
must be considered as dangerous to Liberty & ought to call forth
the most pointed disapprobation of all its friends. —
Resolved, That the example given by that veteran Soldier Gen1.
Lincoln, & other undeviating Patriots, in resigning Offices in-
tended to be prostituted to subserve the purposes of oppressing
the citizens, and enforcing arbitrary edicts, ought to be imi-
tated by all Public officers, and that the Inhabitants of this Town
consider it an highly honourable [373] sacrifice of individual
emolument to Public welfare. Voted, that these Resolutions be
adopted by the Town and printed in the public Papers. —
attest William Cooper Town Clerk.
Voted, That the Thanks of the Town be given to Stephen
Codman Esq Moderator of this Meeting for his good Services
therein. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[374.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston, duly qualified & legally warned in
public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall, on Monday the
13th day of March Anno Domini 1809. 10 O'Clock A.M.
Prayer made by Revd. Mr. Cary. —
Warrant for calling this Meeting — read. —
246 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Sundry Laws or extracts of Laws to be read at this Meeting —
were accordingly — read. —
Joseph Russell Esq.
chosen Moderator, by a hand Vote & took the Chair.
William Cooper
was chosen Town Clerk for the year ensuing & took the oath of
Office, which was Administered to him by Charles Bulflnch Esq.
Votes having been brought in for nine Selectmen, counted &
sorted, it appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen,
viz.
Charles Bulfinch Esq. Mr. Benjamin Weld
Mr Eben1'. Oliver, William Porter Esq
John May Esq. Jona. Hunnewell Esq
Mr Nathan Webb Francis Wright Esq
Mr. Joseph Foster.
The Votes for a Town Treasurer & Collector of Taxes for the
present year, being brought in & sorted, it appeared that
William Smith Esq.
was chosen. —
[375.] The Votes being brought in for Overseers of the
Poor, it appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen —
viz.
Edward Procter Esq. Henry Hill Esq
William Smith Esq. William Phillips Esq
Bedford Webster Esq. Thomas Perkins Esq.
Mr. Samuel Snelling Samuel Clap Esq
Mr. Ozias Goodwin Mr William Mackay
Joseph Coolidge Jur. Esq. Mr Jos Richards
Mr Benjamin Goddard, having declined serving, it was Voted,
That the Thanks of the Town be given him for his good services,
while in that Office.
Thomas Melville Esq. Joseph May Esq.
Andw. Cunningham Esq. Joseph Head Esq.
Thomas H Perkins Esq. Gen. John Winslow
Stephen Codman Esq. John Bray Esq.
Mr Thomas Dennie Gen Simon Elliot
Jona. Hunnewell Esq. Dan1. Messinger Esq
Mr. Thomas Curtis Joshua Davis Jur. Esq.
Benja. Smith Mr. Benjamin Coates
William Sullivan Esq. Mr. Ignatius Sargent
Mr. Samuel Sweet Mr. Edward Cruft
Cap1. Barker Baker James Phillips Esq
Bryant P. Tilden Esq. Nathaniel Curtis
were chosen Fire Wards for the year ensuing.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1809. 247
Voted, that in addition to the Selectmen 12 persons shall now
be chosen a SCHOOL COMMITTEE & the Votes being brought in &
sorted, it [376] appeared that the following Gentlemen were
chosen viz
Rev Joseph Eckley D. D.
Rev. J. T. Kirkland D. D.
William Smith Esq.
David Greene Esq
Rev William Einmerson
Charles Davis Esq.
Dr. Thomas Welsh
Dr. Aaron Dexter
Arnold Welles Esq
Hon. John Phillips Esq
John Heard Esq
John Davis Esq.
Voted, that the above named Gentlemen who conjunctly with
the Selectmen are termed the School Committee, be and hereby
are directed to carry the new System of Education which has
been adopted by the Town, into operation, and said Committee
are also, authorized — empowered conjunctly to manage & regu-
late the Officers & the Government of the Schools & in future to
execute all the powers relative to the Schools, & School Masters,
which the Selectmen or such Committees were Authorized by the
Laws of the Commonwealth or the votes of the Town to exer-
cise — any former Votes of the Town notwithstanding.
Votes for a Treasurer of the County of Suffolk brought in &
counted by the Moderator & Town Clerk when it appeared that
the whole number was 247 & that they were all for Ebenezer
Seaver Esq a discreet and suitable person, & a Freeholder &
resident in said County.
Messrs. William Clouston Messrs. Thomas Christie
John Butterfield [377.] William Green
Noah Dogget Joseph Stodder
Edward Allen Braddock Loring
Benjamin White John Rice
William Ellison Eleazer Homer
Nath1. Bradley Jur Allen Bowker
William Ellison Jur Nath1. Glover
John Howe Jur
were chosen surveyors of Boards & Shingles. —
Messrs. Henry Purkett
Mr. Thomas Barbour
Cap*. Lem1. Gardner
James Uran
were chosen Cullers of Hoops & Staves for the year eusuing.
248 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Messrs. Joseph Doble Messrs. Jona. Gushing
Thomas Barbour James Eunson
Nath1. Howe John Smith
Benja. Clark Dan1. Cutter
Gershom Spear Charles Pook
Ziba Thayer Hezekh. Hudson
were chosen Cullers of dry Fish for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Benjamin White
Thomas Hearsey Jur.
William Ellison
were chosen Fence Viewers for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Barney Connor Messrs. Israel Mead Jr.
John Deluce Joseph Gobbet
Rufus Harrington
were chosen Hogreeves for the year ensuing.
Mess Barney Conner Mess John Deluce
Joseph Cobbet Rufus Harrington
Israel Mead Jr.
were chosen Haywards for the year ensuing. ,
Meesrs. Sam1. Emmons
Ja8. Phillips
were chosen surveyors of Hemp for the year ensuing.
[378.] Messrs. Edwd. Tuckerman
Josiah Snelling
were chosen surveyors of wheat for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. John Wells
Richd. Austin
were chosen Assay Masters for the year ensuing.
The Selectmen
were chosen Surveyors of High Ways for the Year ensuing.
Messrs. Francis James
Silas Francis
were chosen Inspectors of Lime for the year ensuing.
Voted, Joseph Russell Esq., Sam1. Brown Esq. & William
Brown Esq.
be and hereby are appointed a Committee to audit the Accounts
of the Town Treasurer, & also those of the Overseers of the
Poor ; & the Board of Health, and said Committee are directed
to report the sum necessary to be raised for the Services of the
present year. —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1809. 249
Voted, That the consideration of all money matters be referred
to May Meeting — Also any other matter which may remain
unfinished at this Meeting. —
Jonathan Chapman Esqr. having resigned his seat as a
Selectman —
Voted, That the Thanks of the Town be given unto Him for
his good & faithful services in that office for years past.
The Article in the Warrant — viz. " To appoint Agents or
Attornies .with Powers to carry into full [379] effect the Condi-
tions of the Lease of the Old State House." — was read & con-
sidered, Whereupon Voted That the Selectmen be and they hereby
are appointed Agents & Attornies in behalf of the Town, with
full powers to carry into complete effect the Conditions of the
Lease of the Old State House. —
The Article in the Warrant viz " to adopt such measures as
may be considered expedient relative to the Claim of Mr. John
Leverett to part of the Land on which the Alms house stands " —
read & considered — when it was Voted,
That the Selectmen be and hereby are authorized to make such
settlement of the claims of the Heirs of Mr. Leverett to a part of
the land on which the Alms House stands by compromise or
otherwise as they may find expedient : and that if an extinguish-
ment of said claims cannot be obtained upon equitable terms &
the same should be adjudged valid in Law ; they are hereby
authorized to remove any part of said House, & repair the same
at the expence of the Town. —
Voted that the Thanks of the Town be & hereby are given the
Moderator of this Meeting, for his good services in dispatching
the business thereof. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[38O.] At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town
of Boston of 21 years of Age and upwards, qualified as the Con-
stitution prescribes & legally warned in public Town Meeting
Assembled at Fineuil Hall on Monday the 3d. Day of April Anno
Dom. 1809. [10?] O'Clock A.M.—
Prayer, by the Rev. Mr. Holly. —
The Town Clerk informed the Meeting, that all the Gentlemen
chosen Selectmen for the present year, had agreeable to a late
250 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Act of the General Court, qualified themselves for that office, by
taking the following Oath — viz. " That they would faithfully &
impartially discharge the duties of that Office respecting all Elec-
tions & the returns thereof" which Oath was Administered to
them by Mr. Justice Stevenson. —
attest William Cooper Town Clerk.
Warrant for Calling the Meeting. — read.
Paragraph of the Constitution or Frame of Government rela-
tive to the choice of Governour, Lieu*. Governours & Senators —
was read. — •
It was then declared by the Selectmen that no Vote shall be
received, but such as are unfolded, and that they propose the poll
to be closed at [blank] O'Clock P.M. the Bells to begin tolling at
[blank] and to continue for an hour. —
[381.] Persons Voted for as GOVERNOUR — with the num-
ber of Votes for each person — viz . —
Votes
His Honor Levi Lincoln Esq - - - - - 1952
Honbl. Christopher Gore Esq 2982
Honw. Elbridge Gerry Esq 3
Honbl. H. G. Otis Esq 3
Honbl. T. Sedgwick Esq 1
Honbl. J. Parker Esq 1
Honbl. D. Cobb Esq 1
Cap1. Thomas Webb 1
Honb. John Q. Adams - 1
Persons Voted for as LIEUT. GOVERNOUR, with the number of
Votes for each Person — viz.
Votes
Honbl. David Cobb Esq 2994
Honbl. J. B. Varnum 1958
Mr. Joseph Noyes 1
Persons Voted for as Senators for the County of Suffolk with
the number of Votes for each Person viz.
Votes
Hon. Harrison G. Otis Esq. - - 2995
Hon. William Spooner Esq 2987
Hon. John Phillips Esq 2996
Hon. Peter C. Brooks 2998
John Welles Esq 2996
Hon. David Tilden Esq 1946
Samuel Brown Esq 1946
Russell Sturgis Esq. 1943
Edward Procter Esq 1944
Samuel Clap Esq 1942
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1809. 251
[382.] Hon. John C. Jones 5
William Sullivan Esq ------- 5
Daniel Sargent Esq 3
Hon. William Brown Esq ------- 2
Jonathan Hunnewell Esq 1
G. Cabot 1. Stephen Codman Esq. 1.
John Lowell 1. J. P. Davis 1.
Stephen Higginson Esq. 1. T. H. Perkins 1.
C. Jackson 1. J. Q. Adams 1. C. Gore 1.
E. Gerry 1. Jona. Harris 1. S. Procter 1.
Attested Copies of return of the Persons Voted for as GOV-
ERNOUR Lieu'. GOVERNOUR & SENATORS for the County of Suffolk
Sealed up in Town Meeting after the Vote had been declared, to
be transmitted to the Secretary of the Commonwealth as pre-
scribed by Law & directed as follows, viz
To Honble. William Tudor Esq.
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts —
The number of Votes of the Town of Boston for Governour
Lieu1. Governour & five Senators for the County of Suffolk Cer-
tified within & sealed up in Town Meeting after the Votes had
been declared. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[383.] At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town
of Boston of 21 years of age & upwards qualified as the Consti-
tution prescribes and legally warned in Public Town Meeting
assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 17th Day of May
Anno Domini 1809. 9 O'Clock A M.
The Meeting opened with Prayer by Rev. Dr. Eliot.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read.
That part of the Constitution or Frame of Government which
relates to the choice of Representatives — Read
The Return of the Assessors signifying that the Major &
Minor Rateable Polls of this Town for the Present year, were
8368 — being also read — The Inhabitants were then directed by
the Selectmen to bring in their Votes for Representatives ; not
exceeding 37 — and that they propose the Poll shall be closed at
£ past 2 oClk P.M — the Bells to begin tolling at £ past 1
oClock & to continue to the close of the Poll. —
The Votes being brought in for 37 Representatives, upon sorting
252 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
them it appeared, that the following Gentlemen were chosen
having obtained a majority of the Votes viz. —
William Smith Francis Wright
James Robinson Nathan AVebb
William Phillips Jacob Welsh
Daniel Sargent Ephraim Thayer
John Callender Warren Button
William Brown George G. Lee
Jonathan Hunnewell Charles Davis
Benja. Russell Thomas Dennie
Tho8. W. Sumner John Parker
Benja. Whitman Ebenr. T. Andrews
[384.] John T. Apthorp Francis D. Channing
William Hammatt Simon Elliot
Benja. Bnssey William Sullivan
Joseph Head Daniel Messinger
Charles Jackson Josiah Knapp
William H. Sumner Oliver Keating
Benja. Weld Samuel Cobb
Joseph McKean William Walter
David West
The choice of Representatives having been declared by the
Selectmen —
The Meeting was then Dissolved.
[385.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified & legally warned, in
public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday
the 18th Day of May A.D. 1809. 10 oClk A.M.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read.
Joseph Russell Esq.
was chosen Moderator by a hand Vote. —
The Inhabitants were directed to withdraw and bring in their
Votes for 6 Trustees for Towns Land on the Neck in addition to
the Selectmen who conjunctly are to Lease & manage said lands
in such manner as shall appear to them, to be best for the Inter-
est of the Town — the Votes being brought in and sorted, it
appeared that —
Gen1. John Winslow Hon. William Brown Esq
Joshua Davis Junr. Esq Hon. William Phillips Esq
Edward Tuckerman Esq William Hammatt Esq
were chosen.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1809.
253
On Motion, Michael Homer,
was chosen an Inspector of Lime, in addition to the two chosen
in March.
John Smith
a surveyor of Hoops & Staves in addition.
[386.] The Article in the Warrant Viz. "To consider the
expediency of repealing the By Law of the Town which directs
that Bulls shpuld be kept on the Common" — read & considered
— & thereupon Ordered, that the Selectmen shall cause two or
more Bulls to be provided & kept in such Stable yard or other
inclosed place as they shall judge convenient ; and shall appoint
some suitable person to have the care, management and main-
tenance of them, and such person shall receive Annually from
the owner of each Cow kept in the Town the sum of One Dollar. —
The Subscribers a Committee chosen by the Town March 13th
1809. to audit the Accounts of the Town Treasurer, Overseers of
the Poor, Board of health &c &c — And to report the sum neces-
sary to be raised for the present year, having attended that
service ask leave to Report —
They have examined the Accounts of the several Departments,
& find them right cast & well Vouched —
The Treasurer as follows —
To Notes Receivable 381.50
To due on Tax 1803 770.93
ToD°. - - 1804 2965.72
To D° - - 1805 4827.16
To D° - - 1806 10951.99
To D° - - 1807 15869.60
ToD°. - - 1808 33011:53
To T. Treasurer ba!
his % - - - - 20063.28
To Cash on hand 1 7
May --- - 201.82
By Notes for Money j
Borrowed - - - j
By State Tax - - 2299.
By County Tax - -
By outstanding
Debts
By Mr Tukesbury -
By Trustees of Neck
5
9793.40
18428.19
- 74.15
- 92.16
$89,043.53
$89043.53
[387.] The Abatement on several of the Taxes have not
been made, when they are, they will be deducted from the several
sums due for Taxes, these Accounts were made up to May 1st
since which the Treasurer has received a considerable amount &
paid it away to discharge the balance due from the Town. —
The Committee Report an Estimate for the present year as
follows. —
254 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
School Masters & Ushers 13,300
Repairs of Schools & Wood 1,100
Town Watch 6,500
Town Treasurers Salary 1,500
Three Assessors — 816 each 2,450
Town Clerk -. 1,000
Police Officers 1,100
Constables Services - - 500
Paving Streets 10,000
Judge of Municipal Court 750
Messenger of Selectmen '-- 300
Door Keeper 100
Engine Repairs & premiums 600
Lamps & Lighting 7,000
Printing & Stationery ----- - - - 400
Incidental Charges 2,000
Bells & Clock 400
49,000
For Overseers of the Poor 20,000
For the Board of Health 5,000
Dol8. 74,000
From the above statement your Committee are of Opinion that
the Town should raise $70,000, to defrey the Expences of the
present year — all which is submitted —
Jos. Russell Pr. order.
[388.] The aforegoing Report having been read and consid-
ered, was accepted by the Town — whereupon
Voted, that the sum of Seventy thousand Dollars be raised by
a Tax to be assessed on the Polls and Estates of the Inhabitants
of the Town to defray the Expences of the Town the Current
year. —
Voted, That the 'Sum of Seven hundred & fifty Doll8, be allowed
& paid unto the Hon. Thomas Dawes Esq for his Salary as
Judge of the Municipal Court the present year. —
Voted, That the sum of Fifteen hundred Dollars, be allowed &
paid unto William Smith Esq as Treasurer & Collector of Taxes
the present year — he to pay his Clerk, Assistant, Office hire &
all other expence of Office.
Voted, That the Sum of One Thousand Dollars, be Allowed &
paid unto William Cooper for his Salary as Town Clerk the
year ensuing. —
Voted, That the sum of Eight hundred & Sixteen Dollars, be
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1809. 255
allowed & paid unto each of the three Assessors for their ser-
vices in that office the year ensuing.
Voted, That the Selectmen publish the Expence of the year as
usual. —
The article in the Warrant Viz*. "To consider the application
of the Justices of the Court of Sessions that the Town would grant
a piece of Land back of the School House in School Street, to
build a New Court house upon — was read & considered — Where-
upon
[389.] Voted, That the Memorial from the Court of Sessions
be referred to the Selectmen, and that they be authorized if they
think it for the Interest of the Town, to convey any portion of
the Towns Land mentioned in said Memorial upon such condi-
tions as they shall think proper.
The Article in the Warrant viz " To ratify the proceedings of
the Selectmen relative to Mill Pond, and to grant such further
Powers as may be necessary to open & connect the new Streets
tn the Pond " was read, as also the Communication of the Select-
men on the same subject, which being approved of & accepted
by the Town — it was Voted,
That the Selectmen be and hereby are empowered by the Town,
to exchange such portion of the Towns part of the Lands in the
Mill Pond as may be necessary and expedient in their opinion,
to open and widen the Avenues to the new Streets in the Pond. —
On Motion Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to
Joseph Russell Esq for his good services as Moderator in for-
warding the business of the Meeting. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[39O.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified in public Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 4th Day of
July A :D : 1809. — 9 oClock A.M. -
William Cooper — Chosen Moderator. —
The Committee appointed the last Year to made choice of a
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the Anniversary of Indepen-
dence—
Reported That they had chosen William Tudor Junr. Esq. who
has accepted of the appointment. —
256 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
AN ORATION
to commemorate the Independence of the United States was
delivered by William Tudor Jur. Esq.
On Motion VOTED, That the Selectmen be a Committee to wait
on William Tudor J1'. Esq & in the Name of the Town to thank
him for his elegant and Spirited Oration this Day delivered by
him at the request of the Town, upon the anniversary of the
Independence of the United States of America, in which accord-
ing to the instruction of the Town the feelings and principles
which led to that great National event — and to request of him
a Copy thereof for the Press. —
On Motion VOTED that the Gentlemen Selectmen be and hereby
are appointed a Committee to apply to some able & learned
[391] Gentleman to deliver an Oration the 4th of July 1810. -
That Day being the Anniversary of the Independence of the
United States of America ; wherein the Orator is to consider the
feelings manners & principles which led to this great National
Event ; as well as the important and happy Effects, whether
General or Domestic, which have already, or will forever flow
from that Auspicious Epoch.
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[392.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified & legally Warned in
Public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday
the 2d. Day of August A. D. 1809 — 10 oClock
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read.
Daniel Sargent Esq was chosen Moderator, by a hand Vote. —
Agreably to the Notification in the Warrant for calling this
Meeting, the Inhabitants were directed to "bring in their Votes
for a suitable Person to appear as an Advocate in the Municipal
Court & to conduct the prosecutions therein." — the Votes being
accordingly brought in & sorted, it appeared that Peter Thacher
Esq — was chosen Town Advocate. —
The other Article in the Warrant Viz. "To consider the
expediency of encouraging the continuation of Front-Street, from
its present termination at the South Bridge, to the end of the
Brush Hill Turnpike, near the Roxbury Canal, by a grant to
the undertakers of part of the land on the Neck, which will
border on said Street." — was read & debated whereupon it was
BOSTON Towx RECORDS, 1809. 257
moved, & Voted, that a Committee of seven persons be chosen to
investigate & consider this matter and make Report — thereon
at some further Meeting. —
The Votes being accordingly brought in, it appeared that the
following Gentlemen were chosen a Committee for this business.
viz.
[393.] William Parsons Esq. John Joy
Judge Davis Cap1 Barnard
Bedford Webster Hon. John Phillips Esq.
Mr William Hammatt
On Motion Voted, That the Thanks of the Town be and hereby
are given to Daniel Sargent Esq for his good services as Moder-
ator of the Meeting.
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[394.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified & legally Warned in
Public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday
the 6th day of November 1809. 10 O'Clock A. M.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read.
Joseph Russell Esq.
chosen Moderator by a hand Vote. —
Report of the Committee for calling the Meeting — read.
Also the proposals of the Selectmen. —
Whereupon Voted, that the Board of Health be a Committee to
consider the situation of the North Burying Ground — & also the
expediency of enlarging said Ground by the purchase of Land
adjoining, or of opening the Granary Burying Ground" for use of
Graves or new Tombs. —
Also, that they be requested to consider & recommend suitable
places where Wharves may be erected for a removal of nuisances,
& to suggest any other mode which can be adopted for that pur-
pose — to Report at the Adjournment. —
Voted, that the Town Advocate be directed to enquire into the
title of the Town to Snow Hill Street, & to prosecute all tres-
passers on the Towns Land in that quarter — to report at the
Adjournment. —
258 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Report of Committee relative to a new Road, read — where-
upon Moved and [395] Voted, that the report be printed in
Hand Bills for the Consideration of the Inhabitants and that it
be referred for consideration &c to March Meeting — then to be
acted upon. —
On the Article in the Warrant viz " to appoint an Agent or
Agents to nominate appraisers & to receive possession of any
Real Estate which may be now or any time hereafter set off on
execution in "favour of the Town " — being read — it was moved
& Voted, That the Selectmen be & hereby are appointed & em-
powered, Agents for said purpose.
Adjourned to Monday next 10 °'Clock A.M. being the 13th of
Nov. 10 O'Clock A.M.
Novr. 13. The Town met agreeably to Adjournment.
The Moderator informed the Inhabitants that the Town Clerk was
unable to attend at this Meeting, being confined to his house by
sickness ; whereupon it was moved and Voted to choose a Clerk
pro tempore : a Nomination being called for, & the question
taken, Charles Bulfinch Esq was declared to be chosen.
The Board of Health, who were chosen a Committee to consider
the subject of the burying grounds, and the mode for future re-
moval of nuisances by Night carts ; handed in their Report,
which was read & explained by some members of the Committee ;
when it was moved & Voted.
That the report [396] be
recommitted for revision, that it be afterwards printed in hand
bills and distributed to the Inhabitants.
That the Selectmen be directed to call a new Meeting as soon as
convenient after the publication of the Report : and insert the
particular articles to be acted upon in the Warrant for calling
the Meeting. —
Then the Meeting was dissolved.
[397.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in
Public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday
the 13 day of December 1809. 10 O'Clock A.M.
Warrant for the Meeting was — read —
Nomination for Moderator was called for.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1809. 259
Stephen Codman Esq
was chosen, but not being present a new nomination was called
for, and
Samuel Parkman Esq was chosen : —
he not being present, David Tilden Esq was chosen and Accepted.
The Inhabitants were desired to bring in their Votes for a
Town Clerk, & it was Voted, to close the poll at 12 O'Clock.
The Votes, being counted, it appeared that the whole number
was 1587 and that 794 was necessary for a choice.
That Charles Bulfinch Esq had 108
Joseph Russell Esq 672
Cap1. Thomas Clark 789 and that no person had a ma-
jority of votes ; whereupon Voted, To adjourn the Meeting for
choice of Town Clerk, untill tomorrow 14th at 10 O'Clock. —
[398.] Thursday Decr. 14th 10 O'Clock A.M.
The Town met according to Adjournment. —
The Inhabitants were desired to bring in their Votes for Town
Clerk; and it was declared that the Poll should close at 12
O'Clock.—
The Votes having been counted, it appeared that the whole
number of Votes was 2696. —
That 1349 was necessary for a choice. —
That Joseph Russell Esq had 1017.
Cap*. Thomas Clark had 1676.
Scattering Votes - 3.
Cap*. Thomas Clark was declared to be chosen ; he was notified
of the choice by attested Copy of the Vote ; & signified his
acceptance of the office, in writing, and having appeared, the
Oath of Office was administered to him by the Moderator David
Tilden Esq. Justice of the peace.
Attest Charles Bulfinch
Town Clerk pro Tempore.
The Report of the Committee consisting of the Board of Health,
which has been printed for information then read. —
A Motion was made to strike out the first section of the Report,
which authorized the purchase of Land, which being put, it
passed nearly Unanimously in the Negative. —
A Motion was then made to fill the blanks in the Report with
the name of the Board of Health, & that the report should then
be accepted — which being debated passed in the Affirmative. —
260 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
[399.] Voted, that the Town Treasurer be directed to give
his Notes to Benjamin Weld Esq., for the amount of the pur-
chase of Land Adjoining the North Burying ground — unless
there be sufficient Money in the Treasury to pay the same. —
on Motion Voted, that the thanks of the Town be given
to Benjamin Weld Esq. for his Liberality in Offering to relin-
quish his purchase of Land Adjoining the North Burying
Ground for the use of the Town at the cost.
Voted, That the Thanks of the Town be given to the Modera-
tor for his good services. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[4OO.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston, duly qualified & legally warned in
public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday
the 12th day of March Anno Domini 1810. 10 O'Clock A. M.
Prayer made by Rev. Doct Lathrop. —
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read —
Hon John Phillips Esq.
chosen Moderator by a hand Vote. —
Extract of Laws read. —
Thomas Clark
was chosen Town Clerk for the year ensuing, & took the Oath of
Office, which was Administered to Him by John Phillips Esq.
Votes having been brought in for nine Selectmen, counted &
sorted, it appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen.
viz.
Charles Bulfinch William Porter
Ebenezer Oliver Jona. Hunnewell
John May Francis Wright
Nathan Webb Joseph Foster &
Benjamin Weld Esquire. —
The Votes for a Town Treasurer & Collector of Taxes for the
present year being brought in & sorted, it appeared that
William Smith Esq was chosen.
[4O1.] The Votes being brought in for Overseers of the
Poor, it appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen viz.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1810. 261
Edward Procter, Esq. Henry Hill Esq.
William Smith Esq. William Phillips Esq
Redford Webster. Esq Thomas Perkins P^sq.
Mr. Sam1. Snelling Cap*. Ozias Goodwin
Mr. Will1". Mackay Jos. Coolidge Junr. Esq
Mr. Joseph Richards Bry*. P. Tilden Esq.
Thomas Melvill Esq. Joseph May Esq
Andw Cunningham Esq. Jos. Head Esq
John Winslow Esq Step". Codman Esq
John Bray Esq Cap*. Tho8 Dennie
Simon Elliot Esq Jona. Hunnewell Esq.
Dan1. Messinger Esq Mr. Tho8. Curtis
Joshua Davis Esq. Mr. Benja. Smith
Mr Benja. Coates William Sullivan Esq
Mr Ignatius Sargent Mr Sam1. Swett
Mr Edwd. Crufts Ja8. Phillips Esq
Bryant P. Tilden Esq. Mr Nath1. Curtis
Mr Nathan Webb Geo. Blanchard Esq
were chosen Fire Wards for the year ensuing.
The Hon. Thomas H. Perkins & Cap*. Barker Baker, having
declined serving as fire Wards the ensuing year.
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to The Hon.
Thomas H. Perkins & Cap*. Barker Baker, for their faithful
services as Fire Wards for several years past. —
[4O2>.] Voted, that in addition to the Selectmen twelve per-
sons shall now be chosen a School Committee, & the Votes being
brought in and sorted, it appeared that the following Gentlemen
were chosen, viz.
Rev. Dr. Kirkland Rev. Wm Emmerson
Rev. Wra E. Channing Dr. Aaron Dexter
Dr. Tho8. Welsh David Greene Esq
Arnold Welles Esq William Smith Esq
Hon Wm Prescott Esq Hon. John Phillips Esq.
John Heard Jun1'. Esq Charles Davis Esq.
Voted, that the above named Gentlemen who conjunctly with
the Selectmen, are termed the School Committee, be and hereby
are directed to carry the system of Education Adopted by the
Town into operation : and that the said Committee be Author-
ized & empowered conjunctly to manage & regulate the Govern-
ment of the Schools : & to execute all the powers relative to the
Schools & • School Masters which the Selectmen or such
Committees are Authorized by the laws of the Commonwealth or
by the Votes of the Town to exercise. —
Voted Unanimously, that the Thanks of the Town be given to
262 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
the Hon. John Davis Esq. for his faithful services, as one of the
School Committee for several years past. —
Votes for a Treasurer of the County of Suffolk brought in &
counted by the Moderator & Town Clerk, when it appeared that
the whole number [4O3] was, three hundred & Eighty one & that
Ebenezer Seaver Esq a discreet & suitable person a Freeholder &
resident in said County, had 302 Votes and William Smith Esq
had 79 Votes.
Messrs. Benjamin White
William Ellison
John Butterfield
Noah Doggett
Edward Alline
William Greene
Joseph Stodder
Wm Ellison Junr
John Rice
Richd. Thayer
John Cogswell
William Clouston
Nath1. Bradley Junr.
Braddock Loring
Thomas Christie
Eleazer Homer
Allen Bowker
Nath1. Glover
John Howe Junr.
Ed. J Bobbins
were chosen surveyors of Boards & Shingles.
Peter Thacher Esq.— was chosen Town Advocate for the year
ensuing.
Adjourned to 3 0 'Clock P. M.—
The Town met according to Adjournment.
Henry Purkett Esq. Messrs. Nath1. Howe, John Smith &
James Eunson, were chosen Cullers of Hoops & Staves for the
year ensuing.
Messrs. Thomas Barber, Nath. Howe, Hezekiah Hudson,
James Eunson, John Smith, Benja. Clark, Gershom Spear,
Charles Pook & John Singleton, were chosen cullers of dry fish
for the year ensuing. —
[4O4.] Messrs. Benjamin White, Tho8. Hearsey & William
Ellison, were chosen Fence Viewers for the year ensuing.
BOSTON TOWN RECOKDS, 1810. 263
Messrs. Barney Connor, John Deluce, Joseph Cobbett, Rufus
Harrington & Israel Mead Jr. were chosen Hogreeves for the
year ensuing.
Messrs. Barney Connor, Joseph Cobbett, John Deluce, Rufus
Harrington & Israel Mead Jur. were chosen Haywards for the
year ensuing.
Mr. Samuel Emmons & James Phillips Esq. were chosen Sur-
veyors of Hemp, for the year ensuing.
Edward Tuckerman & Josiah Snelling Esquires, were chosen
Surveyors of Wheat for the year ensuing. —
Messrs. John Wells & Richard Austin were chosen Assay
Masters for the year ensuing. —
The Selectmen were chosen Surveyors of High Ways, for the
year ensuing. —
Messrs. Francis James, Silas Francis & Cap1. Michael Homer,
were chosen Inspectors of Lime for the year ensuing. —
Voted, That Joseph Russell
Samuel Brown &
William Brown Esquires
[4O5] be and they hereby are Appointed a Committee to audit
the Accounts of the Town Treasurer, and also those of the
Overseers of the Poor, & the Board of Health. And said Com-
mittee are directed to report the sum necessary to be raised for
the services of the present year. —
Voted, That the consideration of all money matters, be referred
to next May Meeting.
Voted, That the Auditors of Accounts, be requested in their
Exhibit, to make a Statement of the debts & income of the Town,
& report the same at the next May Meeting. —
Voted, That the Auditors of Accounts together with the Hon.
John Phillips Esq. Hon. Benjamn. Austin & John Welles
Esquires, be requested to take into consideration the resources of
the Town, and devise a mode for speedily discharging the Towns
debts : also to consider if any improvement can be made in the
present system to secure a more prompt collection of Taxes. —
The Article in the Warrant viz. "To consider the request of
the heirs of the late Govemour Hancock, that the Town will agree
with them in such a disposition of their Estate on Beacon Hill,
either by sale or exchange of the Towns land, or by a purchase of
264 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
the land of the heirs as may be for the interest of both parties."
was read — whereupon —
Voted, That the same be Committed to the [4O6J Selectmen,
to report their opinion of the best mode of disposing of the
Town's land on Beacon Hill, and Report at the May Meeting.
Voted That the Thanks of the Town be given to the Hon.
John Phillips Esq. for his services as Moderator of this Meeting.
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[4O7.] At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town
of Boston of twenty one years of age & upwards qualified as the
Constitution prescribes and Legally warned in public Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 2d. Day of
April Anno Domini 1810.— 9 O'Clock A.M.—
Prayer by Rev. Doct. Eckley. —
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read. —
Paragraphs of the Constitution or Frame of Government, rela-
tive to the choice of Governour Lieutenant Governour &
Senators, were read. — Also, a,n Extract from a Law of the
Commonwealth, dividing the State into Districts for the choice of
Counsellors & Senators — was read. —
It was then declared by the Selectmen, that no Vote shall be
received, but such as are unfolded — that the Poll shall be closed
at half past 2 O'Clock P.M. and that the Bells begin tolling at
2 O'Clock & continue for half an hour. —
Persons Voted for as Governour, with the Number of Votes
for each Person — viz.
His Excy. Christopher Gore Esq - - 3076
Honbl. Elbridge Gerry Esq 2211
Hon Theodore Sedgwick Esq 1
Persons Voted for as Lieutenant Governour, with the num-
ber of Votes for each Person
[4O8] viz. His Honour David Cobb Esq. ... - 3079
Hon William Gray Esq 2208
Persons Voted for as Senators for the County of Suffolk, with
the number of Votes for each Person viz.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1810. 265
Hon. Harrison G. Otis Esq. 3079
Hon. John Phillips Esq 3079
Hon. William Spooner -------- 3077
Hon. Peter C. Brooks Esq 3078
Hon. John Welles Esq. 3079
Hon. David Tilden Esq. 2199
Samuel Brown Esq. 2198
Edward Proctor Esq. 2199
Russell Sturgis Esq. 2200
Caleb Bingham Esq - 2199
William Sullivan Esq 1 . David Townsend Esq ... l
Attested Copies or return of the persons Voted for as Gover-
nour, Lieutenant Governour and Senators for the County of
Suffolk, sealed up in Town Meeting after the Vote had been de-
clared, to be transmitted to the Secretary of the Commonwealth
as prescribed by Law & directed as follows — viz. —
To William Tudor Esq Secretary of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts. — Votes of the Town of Boston for Governour,
Lieu*. Governour & Five Senators for the County of Suffolk,
sealed up in open Town Meeting. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved. —
[4O9.] At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town
of Boston of 21 years of age & upwards, qualified as the Con-
stitution prescribed and legally warned in public Town Meeting
Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 16th. Day of
MayA.D. 1810 — 9 O'Clock A.M.—
The Meeting opened with Prayer, by the Rev. Doct —
Baldwin. —
Warrant for calling the Meeting read. —
That part of the Constitution or frame of Government which
relates to the choice of Representatives — read. —
The return of the Assessors signifying that the Major & minor
rateable Polls of this Town for the present year were 9557 —
being also read —
The Inhabitants were directed by the Selectmen to bring in their
Votes, for Representatives ; not exceeding 42 — & that they
propose the Poll shall be closed at 2 O'Clock — the Bells to
commence tolling at half past 1 O'Clock P.M. —
The Votes being brought in, sorted & counted, it appeared at
266 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
the close of the Poll, that the following Gentlemen were elected
Representatives for the year ensuing — viz
William Smith Samuel Cobb
William Brown Jona. Hunuewell
William Sullivan William Philips
Francis Wright Benja Russell
Daniel Sargent Thos8. W. Sumner
[41O.] John Callender Benjamin Whitman
Charles Davis James Robinson
Jacob Welsh William Hammatt
John Parker Ebenr. T. Andrews
Francis D. Channing William H. Sumner
Ephraim Thayer Josiah Knapp
Benjamin Weld Oliver Keating
Nathan Webb Dan1. Messinger
Wm Walter Warren Dutton
George G. Lee Isaac P. Davis
Thomas Danforth William Tudor Junr.
Elisha Sigourney John Winslow
George Blanchard Sam1. M. Thayer
Gamaliel Bradford John May
William Porter John Wells
Nathaniel Curtis John Chandler
Declaration of the Choice was then made, & the Meeting was
Dissolved. —
[411.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston duly qualified & legally warned, in public
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the 17th.
Day of May A.D. 181 0 — 10 O'Clock A.M.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read —
Hon. William Brown Esq.
chosen Moderator by a hand Vote. —
Thomas Dennie & Simon Elliot Esquires having resigned the
office of Fire Wards — James Robinson & Samuel M. Thayer
Esquires were chosen Fire Wards for the year ensuing in their
Stead. —
Voted, That the Thanks of the Town be given to Thomas
Dennie & Simon Elliot' Esquires for their faithful services as
Firewards for a number of years past.
Mr Henry Blake was chosen a surveyor of Boards & Shingles,
in place of a surveyor of Lumber deceased.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1810. 267
The Committee appointed at a Meeting of the Town of Boston
on the 2d day of August last " to consider the expediency of
encouraging the continuation of Front-Street, from its present
termination at the South-Bridge, to the end of the Brush-hill
Turnpike, near the Roxbury Canal, by a grant to the undertakers
of part of the land on the Neck, which will border on said Street,"
have attended to the duty Assigned to them, & Report as follows :
[412.] They find that on the 14th day of June A.D. 1806,
by an act to establish the second Brush-hill Turnpike Corpora-
tion, authority was given by the Legislature, so to extend the
Brush-hill Turnpike, as would effect the Junction thereof with the
southern termination of Front-Street, — No measures, however,
have been pursued to carry this enterprize into operation ; prob-
ably on account of the heavy expences necessarily incident to
the undertaking, & to the precarious prospect of remuneration to
those who should make the requisite advances. —
The plan accompanying this Report will exhibit, with sufficient
precision, the course of the intended road ; and the Committee
are fully convinced, that such an extension of Front- Street would
be very advantageous to the Town. — Besides the obvious benefit
& convenience of another avenue, in that direction, it appears
evident that the Town's land on the Neck, would be increased in
value, and the Town would be relieved from the expence of sup-
porting a dyke, which it is now necessary to maintain, between
the present road & the Shore. —
The distance from the end of Front-Street to the Towns Marsh,
in a direct line over the flats, is one hundred & sixty nine
rods. —
The expence of making the road over this extent, according to
an estimate exhibited to the Committee, which they believe to be
correct, would be 42392 dollars 80 Cents. From the flats to
Roxbury landing place, the distance is [413] 121 rods, and the
computed expence of making the road over this distance, includ-
ing bridges is $8535.20. the aggregate expence amounting to
50,928 dollars. —
This estimate has been formed from the actual expence of Front-
Street
From a view of the whole subject, of the obvious benefit to the
Town of Boston from the proposed improvement, of the heavy
expence at which it must be accomplished ; and of the uncertainty
of reimbursement to the undertakers ; or of a suitable interest for
their expenditures, the Committee consider it reasonable & expe-
dient for the Town, to offer the following inducements to those
Gentlemen who may within a reasonable time, procure the con-
templated road to be completed. —
1st. Liberty to make the road over the Towns land, free of
compensation to the Town, for such portion of their land as may
be necessarily occupied by said road.
2d. A grant of the Marsh & flats belonging to the Town, eastward
of the road & between the same & the Channel.
268 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
3d. A grant of one half of the Towns land on the western side of
the proposed road, to the extent of 150 feet from said road, to
be assigned to the undertakers, in alternate lots : the whole land
comprehended between the westerly side of the road and a line
parallel thereto, at 150 feet distance [414] (excepting what
may be reserved for Streets) being first laid out in convenient
lots by mutual arrangement between the undertakers & the
Selectmen, or other Agents of the Town. —
The above grants to be gratuitous, but comprizing however,
these conditions ; that the road be completed within three years
from this date; — that it be in every respect conformable to the
requirements of the act above mentioned, or to the acceptance of
the Selectmen ; that Streets be reserved of such number ; width &
direction, on the western side of said road as are delineated on
the plan accompanying this Report, or of such other description
as may be satisfactory to the Town or its property authorized
officers : that the space of ten feet on each side of said road shall
forever remain unincumbered with buildings, as by agreement
respecting the Front Street, subject only to like exceptions as
expressed in that agreement, so that the part of said road, which
may fall within the Town of Boston, shall correspond in width
with Front Street.
Signed, (Boston Nov. 6th. 1809) William Parsons
Tristam Barnard
John Davis, John Joy, Redford Webster, William Hammatt,
John Phillips — Committee.
The foregoing Report having been read, a Motion was made to
accept the Report of the Committee; which after being debated,
& some explanations given by the Moderator — it passed in the
Affirmative. —
[415.] The Report of the Committee chosen to consider the
application of the heirs of Gov. Hancock, being read & debated ;
a Motion was made that the subject should subside for the
present — the question being taken it passed in the negative. —
A motion was then made to refer the further consideration of
this Report to the Adjournment — which passed in the affirmative
The article in the Warrant " to consider the claim of the heirs
of the late Wm. Cooper Esq. for arrears of the grants in addition
to his salary as Town Clerk" — was read together with a state-
ment of facts exhibited by the Selectmen on the same subject —
whereupon Voted, That the application of the heirs of the late
William Cooper Esq. for the arrears of Grants &c with the
Statement of the Selectmen thereon be committed to the Auditors
of Accounts and the Committee on the resources of the Town ;
to report at the Adjournment.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1810. 269
On the Article in the Warrant "viz to consider the expedi-
ency of appointing Agents with full powers to compromise with
Ward Nicholas Boylston Esq. all the claims of the Town now in
suit against him as Administrator on the Estate of Thomas
Boylston Esq. deceased " was read & after some debate it was —
Voted, That the Selectmen be a Committee to Adjust, settle &
compromise all Claims of [4:16] the Town of Boston to the
Estate both real and personal of Thomas Boylston, with Ward
Nicholas Boylston Administrator with the Will annexed on
said Estate, upon such terms & conditions as they or a majority
of them shall determine to be for the best interest of the Town
under all circumstances ; and that they be authorized, upon
receiving such compensation, or security for compensation as
they may agree upon ; to make & execute to said Ward Nicholas
Boylston & his Assigns, all such releases, Assignments & Con-
veyances of their said claims, and all such Letters of Attorney
empowering him to recover & receive the same to his use ; as
they may deem proper. —
Adjourned to Thursday next 10'0'Clock.
Thursday May 24th. 1810.
Met according to Adjournment.
The Report of the Auditors of the Town's Accounts, was read
— As also the report of the Committee on the resources of the
Town. -
Voted, That the Report of the Committee on the resources of
the Town, be printed for the information of the Inhabitants. —
Voted, That an Exhibit of the receipts and expenditures of the
Town be printed with the Report of the Committee. —
The Committee to whom was referred the claim made by the
Administrator of the late William Cooper Esq. Town Clerk.
[417] Report that from the lapse of time & other circum-
stances attending the grant of Two hundred Pounds, which was
made in the year 1783, of which one hundred & fifty pounds was
never received by him. it would not be proper nor expedient to
allow Interest. But in as much as in the year 1806, there was a
formal liquidation of his accounts, and at that time there was due
to him including all demands Twenty three hundred & fifty eight
Dollars thirty two Cents, And as the equity or liberality of the
Town might as relates to the services of so ancient and faithful
an officer be more confidently appealed to. Your Committee
therefore recommend, that the said sum of twenty three hundred
& fifty-eight Dollars, thirty two cents be paid which appears to be
due, with the further sum of five hundred & sixty five Dollars &
ninety two cents, making in all Twenty nine hundred & twenty
270 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
four Dollars twenty four cents. Provided the same be received in
full for all services & of all demands by the Administrator on
Estate of the late William Cooper Esq. as Town Clerk of the
Town of Boston.
Boston May 21. 1810. Signed Samuel Brown
William Brown
Benja. Austin
John Welles
[418.] A motion was made & seconded, that the Report be
accepted.
The question being put, it passed unanimously in the Affirmative. —
Voted, that the Report 6f the joint Committee be referred to the
Adjournment.
Voted, that this Meeting be Adjourned to Thursday 14th day of
June next. —
The Meeting was Adjourned accordingly.
Met According to Adjournment.
The Moderator being absent, The Hon. David Tilden Esq was
chosen Moderator pro. tern. —
The Committee appointed to take into consideration the RE-
SOURCES of the Town, and to devise a mode for speedily discharg-
ing the Debts. Also to consider if any improvements can lie
made to secure a more prompt collection of Taxes, have attended
to these Duties & Offer the following Report for the consideration
of their fellow Citizens. —
The Committee in order to comply with the directions given
them "to take into consideration the resources of the Town"
have thought proper to ascertain the amount of their Debts, and
to state particularly the several items which constitute the
demands upon them — They find that the sum due from the
Town amounts to 128,827 Dollars, which is taken from the
following Statement, handed them by the Treasurer — viz.
[419.] On Selectmens drafts 6784.56
Board of Health 503.21
Overseers - 9191.05
County of Suffolk 36417.06
State Tax for 1809 22694.66
Due at the Banks 41000.—
Due on other Notes 12236.58
Dollars 128827.12
BOSTOX TOWN RECORDS, 1810. 271
The Committee have also received from the Selectmen, the
following Document as embracing the Resources of the Town,
from whence the foregoing Arrearages are contemplated to be
cancelled —
viz. Outstanding Taxes, after deducting abatement of 14000
Dollars $86,224.47
Balance due from Mr. Curtis, for land - - - - 1800. —
Land near South Bridge, Appropriated to meet \
the Expences of Faneuil Hall valued at - - - ) 6000.0
Beacon Hill at the lowest estimation ----- 12000. —
Doll8.— 106,024.47
Leaving a ballance of 22802. Dollars and 65 Cents, to be pro-
vided for from other resources. —
In addition to which, the Committee are informed by a Statement
made by the Selectmen, that there is about 16500 feet of land
already filled up on the Mill Pond, and that 23000 feet more will
be completed in October next and that the Town's proportion of
land will be about 150,000 feet when the business is finished.
The lands on the Boston Neck computed [42O] at 45 or 50
Acres, are also considered as a valuable and growing property,
to be appropriated as occasions require, to discharge the debts,
& other exigencies of the Town. —
A further estimate of resources is calculated to arise from
Rents & improvements of Faneuil Hall, and the Old State House,
which now produce about 10,500 dollars annually. —
The Committee having thus considered the Debts of the Town,
which include the balances due on the Alms House, and the
enlargement of Faneuil Hall, (expences which probably will not
again take place for many years, ) do think that a small proportion
of the above mentioned Resources of the Town are fully adequate
for cancelling our present arrearages, in a few years, provided
the expenditures should be conducted upon the principles of
economy, which the Committee most earnestly recommend on all
Money transactions. —
The Committee however would inform their Fellow Citizens
that further Expences to the County will soon be realized from
the building of a New Court House, which is contemplated to be
erected this Year; but they expect, that the property of the
Town as described in this report, together with the usual Annual
Taxes will furnish ample Funds for all future exigencies. — The
Committee would further Report "On the mode for speedily
discharging the Towns Debts " that it be recommended to the
Town to empower the Selectmen to sell the 39.500 feet of land
which will be filled up on the Mill Pond in October next, together
with such parts of the other real [421] Estates as may be
thought advisable for raising Forty two Thousand five hundred
& Ninety two Dollars Sixty four Cents which is the balance of
the Towns debt as Stated by the Auditors of the Treasurer's
Accounts.
272 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
It is with regret, that the Committee are obliged to observe
that a large amount of Taxes is still unpaid, they therefore think
it expedient in Order to adopt " some mode for speedily discharg-
ing the Town's Debts," to enjoin on the Constables the most
prompt attention to the execution of all warrants delivered them
by the Treasurer for the collection of Taxes, And, as it is
impossible for the debts of the Town to be discharged without
some efficient exertions on the Part of the Citizens, the Commit-
tee are constrained to call on them to cancel their dues as speedily
as possible — Though it is a most unpleasant duty to distress Indi-
viduals in the Collection of Taxes, yet the demands upon the
Town from its improvements and extension are so pressing, as to
make it necessary for every person in arrears to discharge his
quota of the Public expences without puting the Treasurer to
the disagreeable task of enforcing by Law what Justice requires
of the Delinquent. — In Order to which, the Committee recom-
mend to the Town to prohibit the two Months indulgence which
has hitherto been enjoined on the Treasurer in collecting Taxes,
and leave him to do all which the law directs in the collection —
Recommending at the Same time as much discretion and Lenity
as the nature and urgency of the Demand will permit. —
[422.] The Committee consider the above particulars as
embracing the several Subjects committed to them ; they there-
fore submit the above plain and concise statement of the Debts
& Resources of the Town, to the candid consideration of their
fellow Citizens, for the Purpose of adopting such measures as
their wisdom may direct. —
Signed Joseph Russell
William Brown
Samuel Brown
Benjamin Austin
John Phillips
John Welles
The foregoing Report having been read & considered, it
was. —
Voted, to accept the Report of the Committee with this
restriction, that the lands therein recommended for sale, be not
disposed of without further Orders from the Town. —
The Report of the Committee on the Subject of Beacon Hill
was again taken up & after considerable debate it was Voted,
that the Subject should subside. —
The Committee appointed to Audit the Town's Accounts, have
attended that service & ask leave to Report, that they have
examined the Town Treasurers Accounts & find them right cast
and well vouched — and that the following Account comprises
the Debits & Credits of the Town with him
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1810.
273
The presumtive deficiency due from the Town (after allowing
for the probable abatement of Taxes) [423] will be Forty two
Thousand five hundred and ninety two Dollars 64 Cents, as
Appears below. —
Dr. Due on Selectmens drafts
" Board of Health -
" Overseers ...
" County of Suffolk -
" State Tax - - -
" Due at Banks - -
" Other Notes - - -
6784.55
503.21
9191.5
36417.6
22694.66
41000.—
12236.58
Doll8. $128,827.11
Outstanding Taxes
t<
1803 - -
1804 - -
1805 - -
1806 - -
1807 - -
1808 - -
1809 - -
Cash on hand -
From this deduct the -
probable Abatements -
leaves a deficiency to be
provided for - - - -
Cr.
750.55
2916.57
4742.16
10536.93
13998.48
15304.70
49940.91
98190.30
2034.17
Doll8. $100,224.47
14,000.—
86,224.47
- - 42,592.64
Doll8. $128,827.11
The Committee Report an estimate of the expences for the
present year, as follows, viz.,
School Masters & Ushers 13.800 —
Repairs of Schools Fuel &c ------ 1.500 —
Town Watch 6.300 -
Town Treasurer & Collector 1.500 —
Three Assessors 2,448. —
[424.]
Town Clerk - -
Police Officers
Constables services
$25.548 —
25,548.—
1,000.—
1,400.—
500.—
274 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Judge Municipal Court ------- 750.
Messenger to Selectmen - - 350.
Dorr Keeper to Faneuil Hall - 100.
Engines, Repairs &c. -- 500.
Bells & Clocks 500.
Incidental Charges 2,000.-
Overseers of the Poor 20,000.-
Board of Health 6,000.-
Paving Streets - - 8.000 -
Lamps Oil & Lighting 7.000.-
Printing & Stationery 500.-
Doll8. $74,148.—
In addition to the above usual expences ~)
provision must be made for the award of >• 5,000 —
Referees for widening Exchange Lane j
$79,148 —
Arrears due the Estate of------- "^
William Cooper Esqr ab*. J - 3.000. —
Doll8. $82.148.—
From the above Statement your Committee are of Opinion that
a Tax of Seventy Thousand Dollars should be Assessed the
present year on the Inhabitants to defray the expences of the
Town —
all which is submitted. —
Signed Joseph Russell
Samuel Brown
William Brown
[425.] Boston 22d. May 1810.
The foregoing Report having been read & considered — it was,
Voted to accept the report of the Committee with this Amend-
ment, viz, to add Twelve Thousand Dollars to the Report, for the
purpose of paying for Land purchased of Mr. Weld on Cops Hill,
and other purposes. — and it was
Voted, that the Sum of Eighty Two Thousand Dollars be
raised by a Tax to be Assessed on the Polls & Estates of the
Inhabitants of the Town, to defray the expences the current
year. —
Voted, that the sum of Seven hundred & fifty Dollars, be
allowed & paid unto Hon. Thomas Dawes Esq. for his Salary as
Judge of Municipal Court the present year. —
Voted, that the sum of Fifteen hund Dollars be allowed &
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1810. 275
paid unto William Smith Esq. as Treasurer & Collector of Taxes
the present year, he to pay his Clerk, Assistant, Office hire and
all other expences of Office. —
Voted, that the sum of one Thousand Dollars be allowed &
paid unto Thomas Clark for his salary as Town Clerk the year
ensuing. —
Voted, that the sum of Eight hundred & Sixteen Dollars be
allowed & paid unto each of the three Assessors for their ser-
vices in that Office the year ensuing. —
Voted, that the Sum of Five hundred Dollars be allowed &
paid unto the Town Advocate for his Salary the year ensuing —
he to account with the Town for all fees received by him, & that
he be [426] allowed to retain all fees received by him from the
first of August, to the first day of March last, as his Salary.
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to the Modera-
tors of this Meeting, for their services.
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston, at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 4th day of July
A.D. 1810. 9 oClock A.M.
Thomas Clark, was chosen Moderator. —
The Committee Appointed the last year to make choice of a
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the Anniversary of Indepen-
dence — Reported,
That they had chosen Alexander Townsend Esq. who has
accepted of the appointment. —
Adjourned to the old South Church 12 °Clock — where —
AN ORATION
was delivered by Alexander Townsend Esq., to commemorate
the Independence of the United States of America.
on Motion, Voted, that the Selectmen be, and hereby are appointed
a Committee to wait on Alexander Townsend Esq., in the name
of the Town, and thank him for the elegant and Spirited Oration,
this day delivered by him [427] at the request of the Town,
upon the Anniversary of American Independence, in which were
'considered the feelings, manners, and principles, which produced
276 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
the great national event ; and to request of him a Copy for the
press. —
Voted that the Gentlemen, Selectmen be & hereby are appointed
a Committee, to apply to some able & learned Gentleman to
deliver an Oration on the 4th day of July 1811. — That day being
the Anniversary of the Independence of the United States of
America ; wherein the Orator is to consider, the feelings, man-
ners, and principles which led to this great National Event ; as
well as the important & happy effects, whether General or
Domestic, which have already, or will forever flow from that
Auspicious Epoch. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 1st.
day of August A.D. 1810. 10 °Clock A.M. —
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read.
Hon. Thomas Dawes Esq Chosen Moderator.
[428.] The Article in the warrant viz, " upon the Petition
of a number of the Inhabitants, to consider the expediency of
continuing to dig up & remove from their graves to a Common
Vault, the remains of bodies heretofore deposited, in the Gran-
ary Chapel & North burying grounds, with a view to appropriate
anew the same entire grounds, to the interment of the dead, &
whether it be not expedient, for reasons set forth in said petition
to discontinue altogether, the practice of burying in graves, in
the Chapel and Granary Grounds ; and to consider what other
lands in the outskirts of the Town may be appropriated to this
object." — was read — and after some debate it was — Voted
That, Hon. Harrison G. Otis
James Prince &
Arnold Welles Esqrs.
be a Committee to take up the Subject of said petition at large,
and report at the Adjournment. —
The other article in the Warrant, viz, to consider & Act upon
the petition of a number of the members of the 3d. Artillery Com-
pany, that they may be permitted to erect a Gun House on the
summit of Fort Hill, for the use of said Company — was read —
and Committed to Maj. Ch8. Curtis, Gen John Winslow & David
Tilden Esqrs. to report at the adjournment. —
Adjourned to Friday next 10 oClock A.M.
BOSTON TOWN KECOKDS, 1810. 277
[429.] Friday August 3d. 1810. 10 oClock A.M.
Met according to Adjournment. —
The Committee to whom was refere'd the Petition of a number
of the Inhabitants relative to the subject of the burying grounds
respectfully Report —
That in the opinion of your Committee,
the board of health have proceeded with the greatest prudence,
circumspection & regard to decorum in executing the Authority
given to them by the Town and sanctioned by the Legislature
and the regulations adopted by them relative to funerals are
judicious, and if steadily pursued will prove conducive to the
convenience and advantage of the Town. — But such is the
present crowded state of the Granary & Chapel burying grounds
as to render it expedient to discontinue the opening of graves
therein, untill some urgent and absolute necessity shall require a
renewal of this practice.—
And they recommend the following resolution.
That the burial of the dead in graves in the Granary & Chapel
burying grounds be discontinued and that the same be not Con-
sidered as Common burying grounds untill the further order of
the Town, saving to the proprietors of Tombs the right of using
their private property. —
That the Selectmen be requested to locate such tract of laud
belonging to the Town on the Neck, as in their judgment shall
be sufficient and best adapted for a burying ground, and to enclose
& prepare the same for that purpose. —
[43O.] That the board of health be requested to discontinue
their Operations in the Chapel and Granary burying grounds,
except such as may be necessary to Complete the cemeteries and
Tombs already begun under their Authority. —
That the public cemeteries already constructed in the burying
grounds be used as temporary repositories for the dead, subject
to such regulations as the board of health may prescribe, & that
the board of health be invested with full powers to make requisite
rules and ordinances for the removal of bodies from said ceme-
teries to the Common burying grounds, and for indemnifying the
Town from the expence incident to such removal with such
exceptions & Conditions as they may deem reasonable. —
H. G. Otis, Per Order.
The foregoing report having been read, considered & debated,
a Motion was made to strike out the Preamble of the Report, —
The question being taken it passed in the Negative. —
The Report was then considered by paragraphs & Accepted by
a very large Majority.
278 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Boston Aug*. 2d. 1810 —
The undersigned, appointed a Committee by the Town, on the
petition of the 3d. Artillery Company, are of opinion that the
prayer of said petition ought not to be granted. —
Signed. Ch8. Curtis
John Winslow
D. Tilden.
[431.] The foregoing report was Accepted. —
It was then Moved, & Voted, that the Selectmen be authorized
to locate a lot of land on the east side of Fort Hill below the
Circus for the use of the 3d Artillery Company, untill the further
Order of the Town. —
Voted, that it is the sense of the Town that the Gun House on
Copps Hill should be removed to some suitable part of the land
lately purchased by the Town. —
Voted, That the Thanks of the Town be given to the Modera-
tor of this Meeting. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[432.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston, duly qualified and legally warned,
in Public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil hall on Monday
5th day of November A.D. 1810. 9 oClock A.M.—
Prayer by Rev Mr. Emmerson. —
Warrant for Calling the Meeting — read —
Paragraphs of a Resolve of the General Court for Choosing
one Representative for Suffolk District — read —
The Inhabitants were informed that the Poll would be closed
at 2 oClock — Bells to Commence tolling at half past 1 "Clock. —
Persons Voted for as a Representative for the Suffolk District
in this Commonwealth in the next Congress of the United States
— viz —
For Hon. Josiah Quincy Esq. Nineteen hundred and Nine. —
For Hon. David Tilden Esq. Six hundred & forty.
For John C. Jones Esq. — One.
For Deacon David Goodwin — One.
For David Everett Esq. — One And
declaration thereof made by the Selectmen ' in Public Town
Meeting. —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1811. 279
A return of the doings of this Meeting was made out, (con-
formable to the one in the Town Officer) and put into the hands
of Mr. Sheriff Bradford to be by him given to Benjamin Romans
Esq. Secretary of this Commonwealth.
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
1811.
[433.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston, duly qualified & legally warned in Public
Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 11th
Day of March A.D. 1811. — 10 °Clock A.M. —
Prayer by Rev Mr Buckminster. —
Warrant for Calling the Meeting — read —
Stephen Codman Esq
Chosen Moderator. —
Extract of Laws — read. —
Thomas Clark.
was chosen Town Clerk for the year ensuing — The Oath of
Office was administered to him by Stephen Codman Esq. —
Charles Bulfinch John May
William Porter Francis Wright
Ebenezer Oliver Joseph Foster
Jonathan Hunnewell Nathan Webb, and
Benjamin Weld. Esquires,
were Chosen Selectmen for the year ensuing. —
William Smith Esq.
was Chosen Town Treasurer and Collector of Taxes for the year
ensuing. —
[434.] William Smith William Mackay
William Phillips Joseph Coolidge Junr.
Redford Webster Joseph Richards
Thomas Perkins Bryant P Tilden
Samuel Snelling Ephraim Eliot and
Ozias Goodwin Jonathan Phillips Esquires
were Chosen Overseers of the Poor.
Edward Proctor & Henry Hill Esqre. having declined a re-
election as Overseers of the Poor — it was —
Voted, that the Thanks of the Town be given to Edward
Proctor & Henry Hill Esquires, for their faithful services as
Overseers of the Poor for many years past. —
280 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Thomas Melvill Andrew Cunningham
Joseph May Joseph Head
John Winslow Edwd. Cruft
Stephen Codman James Phillips
John Bray Bryant P. Tilden
Jona. Hunnewell Nathan Webb
Dan1. Messinger George Blanchard
Benjamin Coats Samuel M. Thayer
[435.] William Sullivan Joseph Tilden
Benjamin Smith Thomas Page
Ignatius Sargent Joseph Austin — and —
Nath1. Curtiss Benjamin Rich Esquires,
were Chosen Firewards for the year ensuing. —
Voted, That the Thanks of the Town be given to Thomas Cur-
tis, Joshua Davis, Samuel Swett and James Robinson Esqrs. for
their Services as firewards the year past. —
Voted, That in addition to the Selectmen twelve persons shall
now be chosen a School Committee, & the Votes being collected
it appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen — viz,
Rev. W. Emmerson Rev. W. E. Channing
Rev. Jos. S. Buckminster Dr. Aaron Dexter
Dr. Thomas Welsh Arnold Welles Esq.
David Greene Esq. William Smith Esq.
Charles Davis Esq. John Heard Jur. Esq.
John Phillips Esq. Wm. Prescott Esq.
Voted, That the above named Gentlemen who conjunctly with
the Selectmen, are termed the [436] School Committee, be and
hereby are directed to carry the System of Education, Adopted
by the Town into operation ; and that said Committee be also
Authorized & empowered conjunctly to manage & regulate the
Government of the Schools ; and to execute all the powers rela-
tive to the Schools & School Masters, which the Selectmen or
such Committees are Authorized by the Laws of the Common-
wealth or by Votes of the Town to exercise. —
Voted, That the Thanks of the Town be given to Rev. Dr.
Kirkland for his faithful services as one of the School Committee
for many years past. —
Votes — for a County Treasurer, for the County of Suffolk
brought in and counted by the Moderator & Town Clerk when it
appeared that Ebenezer Sever Esq. had, 340 Votes, Josiah Batch-
elder Esq. had 2 Votes and William Smith Esq. had one Vote. —
Voted, That the Selectmen Count and Sort the Votes for a
Register of Deeds for the County of Suffolk.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1811. 281
Votes, for a County Register of Deeds, for Suffolk were
brought in & Counted, it appeared that the whole number was
440. & that they were all for William Alline Esq.
Messrs. Benjamin White Messrs. Eleazer Homer
John Cogswell Joseph Stodder
William Clouston Allen Bowker
[437.] William Ellison William Ellison Junr.
John Butterfield Nath1. Glover
Nath1. Bradlee Junr. John Howe Juur.
Noah Doggett Richard Thayer
Braddock Loring Edward J. Robbins
Thomas Christie Henry Blake
William Green Joseph Tucker.
were chosen Surveyor of Boards & Shingles for the year ensuing.
William Minot Esq.
was Chosen Town Advocate for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Henry Purkett, Nathaniel Howe, John Smith & James
Eunson were Chosen Cullers of Hoops & Staves.
Messrs. Tho8. Barber Messrs. Samuel Smith
Hezekiah Hudson Nath1. Howe
John Smith James Eunson
Gershom Spear Benjamin Clark
Charles Pook,
were Chosen Cullers of dry fish, for the year ensuing. —
[438.] Messrs. Benjamin White
William Ellison and
Nath1. Bradlee Junr.
•were Chosen Fence Viewers for the year ensuing.
Messrs. Barney Conner
Joseph Cobbett
John Deluce
Rufus Harrington and
Israel Mead Junr.
were Chosen Hog-reeves. —
Messrs. Barney Connor
Joseph Cobbett
John Deluce
Rufus Harrington and
Israel Mead Junr.
were Chosen Haywards. —
Samuel Emmons and
James Phillips Esqrs.
were Chosen Surveyors of Hemp for the year ensuing.
282 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Edward Tuckerman and
Josiah Snelling Esqrs.
were Chosen Surveyors of Wheat. —
Messrs. John Wells and
Richard Austin,
were Chosen Assay Masters. —
The Selectmen, were Chosen Surveyors of Highway. —
Messrs. Francis James, Silas Francis and Michael Homer, were
Chosen Inspectors of Lime. —
[439.] Voted, That Samuel Brown, William Brown &
Stephen Codman Esquires be, and they hereby are appointed a
Committee to Audit the Accounts of the Town Treasurer, and
also those of the Overseers of the Poor, & the Board of Health
and said Committee are directed to report the sum necessary to
be raised for the services of the present year. —
Voted, That the Consideration of all money matters be referred
to the next May Meeting —
On a Motion made by James Prince Esq. it was. —
Voted, That at the next meeting of the Wards for the purpose
of electing the Board of Health and Assistant Assessors, there
be Chosen a Committee to consist of one person from each Ward,
to enquire into the pecuniary concerns of the Town, and Report
the state of their Property whether, real, mixed or personal. —
The amount of debts due by the Town whether to Banks or in-
dividuals, what property has been appropriated for specific pur-
poses ; and also of all debts due to the Town & generally to
enquire into all matters & things relative to the monied concerns
of the Town, and what savings may be made in the current
expences in future — and said Committee shall digest and prepare
a report on the subject which they shall present to the Selectmen
who shall cause the same to be printed and distributed among
the Inhabitants ten days at least before the May Meeting. —
[44O.] Voted, That the Selectmen take measures to carry
the foregoing Vote into effect. —
The Article in the Warrant viz ' ' to Appoint Agents to Answer
to an indictment found against the Town for a nuisance, occasioned
by discharging Night carts & other filth, from the wharf at the
end of Leverett Street."- — was read — whereupon Voted, That
the Selectmen be appointed Agents, to appear at Court in behalf
of the Town & defend the Suit.
Voted, That the Thanks of the Town be given to Stephen C°d-
man Esq. for his services as Moderator. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1811. 283
[441.] At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town
of Boston of twenty one years of Age and upwards qualified as
the Constitution prescribes and legally warned in public Town
Meeting Assembled At Faneuil Hall on Monday the first day of
April Anno Domini 1811. 9°ClockA.M.—
Prayer by Rev. Mr. Lowell. —
Warrant for Calling the Meeting — read —
Paragraphs of the Constitution or Frame of Government, rela-
tive to the Choice of Governour, Lieutenant Governour and Sen-
ators, were read. —
It was then declared by the Selectmen, that no Vote shall be
received but such as are unfolded. — That the Poll shall be closed
at half past two O'Clock P.M. and that the Bells begin tolling
at 2 O'Clock & continue for half an hour. —
Persons Voted for as Governour, with the number of Votes for
each person. Viz.
His Excellency Elbridge Gerry Esq. - - - - 1879
Hon Christopher Gore Esq. 3128
Hon. Harrison G. Otis Esq. - 3
Hon. Theodore Sedgwick Esq. 1
Hon. Levi Lincoln Esq. 2
Hon. John Adams Esq. 1
Zachariah G. Whitman Esq. 1
Persons Voted for as Lieutenant Governour, with the number
of Votes for each person — Viz. —
[442.] His Honour William Gray Esq. 1878
Hon. William Phillips Esq. 3128
Hon. William Heath Esq. 1
Hon. John Phillips Esq. 1
Hon. John Welles Esq. 1
Persons Voted for as Senators for the County of Suffolk, with
the number of Votes for each person — viz. —
Hon. Harrison G. Otis Esq. 3125
Hon. John Phillips Esq. 3130
Hon. John Welles Esq. 3133
Hon. Peter C. Brooks Esq. 3123
Daniel Sargent Esq. 3120
Hon. David Tilden Esq. 1871
Samuel Brown Esq. 1872
Russell Sturgis Esq. 1872
Mr. Caleb Bingham 1870
Mr. William Little 1866
284
CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
William Sullivan
Josiah Backeldor
William Phillips
Charles Jackson
William Prescott
Benj". Whitman
Benf. Weld - -
Jona. Hunnewell
Robert Gardner
John C. Jones -
Lemuel Hayward
Joseph Jones
[443.] Edward Procter
Daniel Baxter -
o
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Amos Binney
Sam1. Dexter - - - - 1
Tho8. C. Amory - - - 1
Jonathan Amory - - - 1
Dr. James Jackson - - 1
Tho8. H. Perkins - - 1
Arnold Welles - - - 1
Jesse Putnam - - - - 1
David Townsend - - 1
Tho8. K. Jones - - - 1
John Heard 1
Nath1. Brewer - - - 1
Benjamin Austin - - T
Jeremiah Bridge - - - 1
William Noyes - - - 1
- - 1
Attested Copies or return of the persons Voted for as Gov-
ernour, Lieutenant Governour & Senators for the County of Suf-
folk sealed up in Town Meeting after the vote had been declared,
to be transmitted to the Secretary of the Commonwealth as pre-
scribed by law & directed as follows — viz.
To Benjamin Romans Esq. Secretary of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts, Votes of the Town of Boston for Governour, Lieu-
tenant Governour, & five Senators for the County of Suffolk,
Sealed up in open Town Meeting. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved
[444.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston, qualified as the Constitution pre-
scribes & legally warned in Public Town Meeting Assembled at
Faneuil Hall on Thursday the 16th day of May A.D. 1811 — 9
O'Clock A.M. —
Prayer made by Rev. Mr. Mitchell.
Warrant for Calling the Meeting — read. —
That part of the Constitution or Frame of Government which
relates to the Choice of Representatives — read - —
The return of the Assessors signifying that the Major & Minor
ratable Polls of this Town for the present year were 10,018 —
being also read —
The Inhabitants were directed by the Selectmen, to bring in
their Votes for Representatives ; not exceeding 44 — and that
they propose the Poll be Closed at half past 1 O'Clock — the
bells to commence tolling at 1, O'Clock. —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1811. 285
The Votes being brought in, sorted & counted, it appeared at
the close of the Poll, that the following Gentlemen were Elected
Representatives for the year ensuing - - (viz.) ....
William Smith Esq. Samuel Cobb Esq.
Hon. William Brown Jona. Hunewell Esq.
William Sullivan Esq. William Phillips Esq.
Dea. Francis Wright Benjn. Russell Esq.
Mr. Tho8. W. Sumner Benjn. Whitman Esq.
Charles Davis Esq. James Robinson Esq.
[44:5.] William Hammatt Esq. Mr. John Parker
Mr. Edward T. Andrews Mr. Isaac P. Davis
William H. Sumner Esq. Mr. Ephraim Thayer
Mr. Josiah Knapp Mr. Benj". Weld
Oliver Keating Esq. Mr. Nath". Webb
Daniel Messinger Esq. George G. Lee Esq.
Mr. John Chandler Mr. William Porter
John May Esq. Sam1. M. Thayer Esq.
George Blanchard Esq. Mr. Nath1. Curtis
Hon Wm. Prescott Hon. Artemas Ward
Alexr. Townsend Esq. Mr. Rich'1. Faxon
Mr. John D. Howard Mr. Thacher Goddard
Samuel J. Prescott Esq. Mr. Jona. Whitney
Mr. Lynde Walter Mr. Samuel Dunn
Lemuel Shaw Esq. James Savage Esq.
Mr. Jona. Loring Mr. John G. Coffin
declaration of the choice was then made. —
On Motion, Voted that this Meeting be adjourned to Saturday
next 10 O'Clock — to supply the places in the number of Repre-
sentatives, of any persons who may decline accepting the appoint-
ment & to complete the business of the Meeting.
Adjourned.
Saturday 10, O'Clock A.M.
Met according to Adjournment —
no resignation having taken place among the Gentlemen Chosen
Representatives. —
The Meeting was Dissolved.
[446.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified and legally warned,
in Public Town Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday
the 27th. Day of May A.D. 1811. 10 O'Clock A.M.-
Warrant fo»* Calling the Meeting — read. —
286 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Stephen Codman Esq.
was Chosen Moderator.
Rev Charles Lowell
was Chosen one of the School Committee in place of Rev. Wil-
liam Emmerson deceased. —
The Committee chosen in the several Wards, in pursuance of a
Vote of the Town having requested a full communication from
the Selectmen, Overseers of the Poor, Board of Health, and
Town Treasurer and Collector, & having received their several
reports, and maturely weighed and considered the same, ask leave
to report. —
That they find the real estate of the Town consists of the fol-
lowing pieces, of the value of which the Committee are unable to
judge, and have therefore submitted the rents of such of them
as are leased, and the value set upon them by the Selectmen in
their report to this board. —
Faneuil Hall and Old State House, the
rents of which are stated at $10,700, Pr. Annum
New Stalls in Market, and the Old ones,
The rents estimated at 1332.67
[447.] Land by south Bridge, extend-
ing 290 feet on the Street leading to the
Bridge, together with the right of the flats
on each side to the channel valued at - - $5000. —
Towns land on Beacon Hill 12000.—
Land opposite the Mall at the South )
end of New block of Buildings j - 10000. —
Land in the Mill pond already filled up. - 16500 feet —
Land contracted to be filled up 1st. June - 23000 do —
Land to which the Town will be finally
entitled when the whole Pond shall have
been filled up exclusive of canal, Streets,
or Markets 150,000 do -
About 1600 feet of land near South Boston Bridge under con-
tract to Deacon Brown. —
Between 40 and fifty Acres of land upon the neck which has
been judiciously laid out into Streets and lots, but for which there
is at present no demand. —
The Committee cannot find, that under the description of
" personal or mixed " property, the Town possess any other than
the amount either paid or still due for sales of land on the Neck,
amounting in the whole to 12999 dollars 16 Cents. —
This sum was originally intended to be reserved as a fund
under the management of the trustees of the neck land, to accu-
mulate untill it should amount to such a sum as would meet the
annual expences of the Town ; but the Committee find that it
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1811.
287
has been paid into the Treasury — ; and the Inhabitants are
responsible for the amount to the said Trustees of the Neck
land. —
[448.] They cannot perceive any advantage resulting to
the Town, while it continues so deeply in debt, in reserving a
fund for which the Inhabitants are paying interest, while the
Town itself is indebted in much larger sums carrying Interest. —
They therefore recommend, that the amount of the Sales of this
land, already received, and such as may be hereafter received,
should be applied to the extinction of so much of the debts due
by the Town, carrying interest. —
In obedience to the second direction in their Commission, to
inquire into the amount " of the debts due by the Town whether
to Banks or individuals," the Committee report, that from the
returns made to them by the Town Treasurer the debts due by
the Town are as follows. —
Notes payable to sundry Banks.
Massachusetts Bank -------
United States Bank
Boston Bank ---------
Union Bank - -
Notes to individuals
Benjamin Barker -.-'
Elizabeth Partridge
Selectmen of Boston* - - -
Estate of John Gray - - -
Tuthill Hubbards heirs - -
Benjn. Weld on account burial ground
Leveretts heirs for Alms house land -
R. G. Shaw for Fore Street - - -
Henry Sargent for Exchange Lane -
[449.]
The Committee moreover find due to sundry Cor-
porations & persons not on Note, as follows, viz. —
State Tax
County Tax - -
Selectmens drafts f
Board of Health
Overseers _._.
900—
4000—
23000—
1544.17
772. 8
$38216.25
1230.—
107.—
3024.15
1500.—
2239.84
1000.—
3000.—
$50317.24
20081.98
49316.99
21663.27
691.46
10287.83
The Committee cannot discover any property specifically ap-
*This sum is a charitable fund under the direction of the Selectmen.
t This Sum includes the Sum of $484 due to the Trustees of the Neck land.
288 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
propriated exclusive of the land and buildings used for Schools
and other purposes which cannot be diverted from their present
appropriations.
They find the debts due to the Town exclusive of the amount
due for the Neck land as above stated, to consist of the arrearages
of Taxes from the year 1803 to 1810 inclusive, which amount in
the whole to the very important sum of $109,000. —
The Committee have thus discharged in the best manner in
their power all the specific and well defined objects of their
Commission ; but they cannot overlook the manifest intention of
the Town, in the general authority given them to " inquire
generally into the monied Concerns of the Town, and what savings
may be made in the current expences in future."
[45O.] The former part of this general and comprehensive clause
may be construed into an Authority, and perhaps an obligation, to
Suggest any improvement in the management of the Town's
financial concerns which might occur to the Committee, while the
latter seems to be confined simply to the Subject of economical
savings in the detail of the Annual expenditure —
• The Committee, called suddenly and unexpectedly to the
exercise of this important duty, unacquainted as they were, &
must be presumed to be with the fiscal arrangements of the Town,
adopted the measures which they conceived the most proper to
enable them to ascertain what savings might be made in the
different departments of municipal policy, by Calling upon all
the public functionaries, who are justly presumed to have the
Confidence of the people, by their being freely and with great
unanimity elected to their Offices, from their several statements,
which will be returned with this report, it was found that no
material savings could be expected in any essential part of the
annual expenditure. — Then indeed we consider the numerous and
highly important objects for which the taxes of the Town are
employed, and that these subjects have been annually investi-
gated by committees, and more especially the last year by a large
and respectable one, composed of persons of different political
Opinions, who were unable to discover that any material savings
could be made in the annual expences of the Town, and particu-
larly as the estimate of the expences for the [451] Current
year falls short of the sum granted the last year more than five
Thousand Dollars, the Committee cannot venture to recommend
to the Town any diminution in the Allowances for this years
expences other than those which are recommended by the Offices
of the Town — But although the Committee are unable to recom-
mend any specific savings in the Annual expences of the Town,
yet under the general authority to "enquire into" the monied
concerns of the Town " they feel themselves not only authorized
but obliged to state that it is apparent to your Committee, that
from the imperfect manner in which the taxes have been Col-
lected, the affairs of the Town are in a state of derangement ill
suited to its Interest, to its ability, or its credit. —
A debt of 152,000 dollars which is balanced only by a debt due
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1811. 289
to the Town upon past taxes of 109,000 dollars, one third of the
former bearing interest, while the whole of the latter carries no
interest, exhibits such marks of improvidence, as Calls for an
imediate remedy. — It must also be observed that while the debts
due from the Town must be discharged at their face, a very Con-
siderable proportion of the sum due to the Corporation may
never be Collected. —
Happily however the relief is in our own power, the means
proposed to remedy this evil are of two kinds. —
1st. To dispose of so much of the Towns property, as will place
them in a state of Independence. —
[452.] 2ndly. To Alter the System of Collection in future in
such a manner as may prevent the recurrence of a deficiency so
mortifying and injurious to the interests of the Town. —
As to the first, it would not be expedient for the Town at the
present moment, to force the Sales of any part of their property
which is not in demand ; but it is thought by your Committee,
that the land lying on the Street leading to South Boston Bridge,
the Lot opposite to the mall, and the land on Beacon Hill, may
be Sold at as high a price as it will probably produce at any
future day, especially when it be considered that it produces no
income, and the loss to the Town, from Keeping the land in an
unproductive state, is not less than 1500 dollars Per Annum;
and your Committee are further of opinion, that the erection of
valuable houses on the said vacant lands, will not only furnish a
new fund for taxation but will promote the growth and prosperity
of the Town. —
The Committee would remark as a further inducement to this
sale, that if the lands thus disposed of should produce the sum at
which they are estimated, it would reduce the present large
balance due from the Town, to a sum not much exceeding 20,000
dollars which might easily be sunk in the taxes to two years —
As to the 2d. point the collection of taxes, no argument need be
used, beyond the simple state of facts to prove, that the present
mode is most deficient, wasteful, and ruinous. —
[453.] A defect in the Collection of 109,000 Dollars, not
more than 43,000 of which is for the last year, and the whole of
which has been due more than four Months and some of it several
years without interest, speaks a language which cannot and ought
not to be mistaken. —
In what manner is this to be remedied?
Two considerations have suggested themselves to your
Committee. —
The one to abolish the premium paid to the wealthy part of the
- community for doing what the law and the moral obligation
arising from the duty they owe the Town, would induce them to
do without such -Premium. —
The other by altering the times and mode of Collection to
insure as much punctuality in the Collection of the Town taxes,
as is found in the Collection of the taxes due to the United
290 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
States, which are surely not of a more imperious or important
nature. —
As to the first it originated in a disposition to Change a
delatory & injurious mode of Collection, which had formerly
crept into the practices of the Town. —
The opulent were bribed by the tender of a premium to do
that which their own best interests and their patriotism ought to
have induced them to do without it. —
What would be thought of an individual heavily in debt who,
when he had large sums of money fairly due from his neighbours,
should offer them a [454] premium to pay the debts they had
voluntarily Contracted? what still more be thought of such
a man if like this Town he paid an high usurious interest for
money which he borrowed of his debtor, who had then owed him
the same sum more than six months ?
But if the Town must resort to loans to anticipate the Collection
of its just debts, is there no mode of procuring them short of an
usurious premium? Is the Credit of this opulent Town whose
Corporate property vastly exceeds its debts, and may be reasona-
ably estimated at half a million of dollars, so low that it is unable
to procure money on a pledge of its taxes, short of one pr. Cent
per month?
If this indeed be the case, we ought to blush that the Town
cannot find among its citizens a man of ordinary financial abilities,
or of a moderate share of public spirit. —
But this is not so. The mischief has been tolerated, because
it was not the peculiar duty of any individual to remedy it. —
The inhabitants voluntarily inflicted the penalty upon themselves ;
they have suffered enough for it ; they have paid more than
20,000 dollars in premiums to their own debtors, because they
would not as all other Towns do, compel them to pay. —
But oirr citizens will wish, we hope, to wipe away this stain ;
they will pay in future cheerfully without a premium, after having
been indulged Six Months from the first of May when the tax is
presumed to be Assessed. —
For what debt is there more honorably obligatory than that due
to the Tcwn. —
[455.] It is incurred for the education of our children ; for
the preservation of our health ; for the godlike charity of Sup-
porting our poor ; for the preservation of our lives & limbs by
repairing and lighting our Streets. These form three quarters of
our annual expenditure. —
The money ought to be paid at sight ; such is the law of the
State ; such is the usage of many prudent Towns ; such if it were
not the law, would be our interest & our duty. Let us then
apply to the Legislature to repeal this premium paid to the rich
& let them vie with each other in the punctuality of discharging
their debts, their most solemn debts to the Town, debts equally
important as those due to the banks, or to the United States. —
But lest principles of patriotism may not have their full effect,
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1811. 291
the Committee proceed to recommend under the second head of
improvement in the Collection of taxes. —
1st. The appointment of four assistant collectors, who shall be
allowed in addition to the fees of Office the sum of Three hundred
Dollars per Annum each. —
It will be perceived that the premiums paid to the Opulent and
the punctual have amounted to 3200 dollars per Annum, and of
course that these salaries if the premiums are abolished will still
leave the Town better by the sum of two thousand dollars. —
[456.] 2dly. It is proposed that all the taxes shall be paid
in without any exception at the end of Sixty days after the deliv-
ery of the tax bills — This it will be perceived is only Sixty days
sooner than the inhabitants are now obliged to pay them, & if we
deduct ten days for Notices as has been usually allowed, the loss
to the Town will be fifty days only. — After the first year it will
be seen that the tax will not recur at an earlier period to the citi-
zen, as the burthen is to be born every year, and only once in
each year. —
At the expiration of the Seventy days it shall be the duty of
the Town Treasurer to issue his warrants ; after which every man
who has not paid his tax will be subjected to the payment of the
fees of Collection, which will amount to nearly five per Cent, and
the same, shall be notified to each inhabitant on the tax bill, and
that if the same shall not be paid at the expiration of the ten
days, that warrants shall issue therefore. This it is believed
will be as powerful a Consideration with those who now receive
the premium as the premium itself.
All classes of the community will reap an advantage from this
System by the improvement of the Credit of the Town and by
the consequent diminution of future taxes.
3dly It is proposed by the Committee that the Assessors should
be enjoined to issue the tax bills on or before the first day of
September in each year, and if any additional expence of Clerk
hire shall be thereby incurred, that the same shall be paid by the
Town.—
The reasons which have induced the Committee [457] to
urge this anticipation of the taxes are, that the Season of labour
is the period of profit to almost all Classes of the people ; that
the winter is the moment of repose in which many Citizens are
obliged to Consume the fruits of their summer industry ; that
they can pay with more ease while they are in the receipt of
money ; but more especially because hundreds of labourers who
are taxed, collect during the Summer the money of the Citizens
of this town & in Autumn fly away with it to their own home,
without Contributing towards the public burden of those who
have protected and paid them. —
Lastly. The Collector shall be directed to issue his warrants
for the Collecting of all taxes now in arrear without any delay or
distinction. —
The Committee have given to this subject all the thought &
292 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
reflection in their power. They have had two objects in view,
from which they have not Swerved. —
The one to retrieve the Credit of the Town, to diminish ac-
cumulated debt, to prevent the recurrence of such accumulation
in future. —
The Second to withdraw from certain Classes of Citizens a
premium for doing their duty, a reward for paying what both
the law, their own sense of duty and the public interest, would
have induced them to pay without.
In effecting these objects they have recurred to the old and
well approved mode of Collecting the taxes by Special Collectors.
A mode which the late Act authorizing the Town Treasurer to
Collect [458] them, never intended to abolish, for that Act
authorized him to appoint such Assistant Collectors, and the
Committee simply recommend the enforcement of that law. —
If the joint and disinterested efforts of a Committee freely
chosen from every part of the Town, representing local as well as
general interest, shall be productive of any partial or intensive
good they shall be happy; if not, they shall enjoy the con-
sciousness of well meant and assiduous efforts for the promo-
tion of the interests of the town, in whose prosperity they are
individually deeply concerned. —
All which is respectfully submitted to the candid consideration
of the inhabitants of this town by their Committee. —
Josiah Snelling, Ward N°. 1 .
R. Webster, " " 2.
Ephraim Eliot, " " 3.
John Brown, " " 4.
William Alline, " " 5.
Nehh Parsons, " " 6.
Step: Codman, " " 7.
John Lowell, " " 8.
Isaac Winslow, " " 9.
Joseph Tilden, » "10.
I. P. Davis, " " 11.
The Gentlemen elected in this Ward 12
did not attend. —
Boston May 14th. 1811.-
The foregoing Report having been read &
debated, it was unanimously accepted by the Town. —
on Motion of John Lowell Esq. —
Voted, that it is expedient, that some measures be adopted to
lessen the debt due from the Town, and [459] to prevent as
far as possible the recurrence of such a balance against the Town
in future. —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1811. 293
Voted, That Josiah Snelling
Redford Webster Ephraim Eliot
John Brown William Alline
Nehh Parsons Stephen Codman
John Lowell Isaac Wiuslow
Joseph Tilden Isaac P. Davis &
Joshua Davis Esqrs. be a Committee with full power
and authority to dispose of the land on Beacon Hill, of the lot
opposite to the Mall and of the land lying on the Street leading
from Orange Street to the South Bridge, at public Auction at
such time as they shall deem most beneficial for the Town, and
upon such sale to make & execute good deeds thereof in fee Sim-
ple with warranty and that the proceeds of such Sale Shall be &
the same hereby are appropriated to the liquidation & satisfac-
tion of the debts due by the Town. —
Voted, That it is expedient to abolish the premium heretofore
paid to those who pay their Taxes within certain limited periods
after the delivery of the tax bills & that the Representatives of
this Town in the General Court be requested to procure a repeal
of any part of any law or Act which has heretofore allowed &
permitted such premiums. —
Voted, That in future, it shall be the duty of the Assessors to
issue the tax bills on or before the first day of September in each
year, and within Sixty days thereafter it shall be the duty of the
Town Treasurer to issue his Notifications to each person who
shall be Assessed and whose taxes shall not have been wholly
abated, and if such person shall not pay his taxes within [46O]
ten days after the receipt of Such Notification or the Service
thereon upon him in the usual form, the Treasurer Shall issue his
warrant for Such taxes directed to the Special Collector herein
after mentioned who shall be held to Collect the Same before the
return day of Such Warrant — and that the Representatives of
the Town be requested to apply to the Legislature for Such
amendment of the laws for the collection of taxes in this Town
as may be necessary to carry the foregoing vote into effect. —
Voted, that the Town Treasurer be recommended to appoint in
pursuance of the authority vested in him by law Four deputy Col-
lectors who Shall give bond for the faithful execution of their
trust — and it shall be the duty of Such Collectors to Collect and
receive the Taxes committed to them to Collect, for which they
Shall receive the premium or compensation from the persons
named in the warrants to them committed which Constables are
now entitled by law to Charge & receive, and pay over the Sums
so Collected to the Town Treasurer. —
Voted, that as an inducement to the Said Collectors to be
vigilant and faithful in the execution of Said trust, there be
granted to them annually the Sum of twelve hundred Dollars
294 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
which Sum Shall be divided among the said Collectors in pro-
portion to the Sum which he or they shall respectively Collect in
each year. —
Voted, That the thanks of the Town be given to the Gentlemen
Composing the Committee from the Several Wards for their
faithful Services. —
[461.] The Committee appointed to Audit the Towns
Accounts, have attended that Service and ask leave to report —
That they have examined the Town Treasurers Accounts, and find
them right cast and well vouched, that a balance remained in his
hands of the Sum of Eighteen hundred and twenty Seven dollars
five Cents on the first day of May instant which is carried to the
Credit of the Town in his New Accounts. —
The Committee report as their opinion that it will be expe-
dient for the Town to grant a tax of Seventy Three Thousand
& five hundred Dollars to be Assessed on the inhabitants, to
defray the expences of the Town the Current Year agreeable to
the following estimates. —
To meet the Selectmens drafts - $50,000 —
Overseers of the Poor 25,000 —
Board of Health - - - 7,000—
Interest due on Notes due to Banks & individuals - 3,500 —
Remains Doll8. 73,500 —
to be provided for. —
all which is Submitted. —
Boston May 24th 1811.
Signed
William Brown.
Stephen Codman.
Samuel Brown.
The foregoing Report was read & accepted. —
Voted, That the Sum of Seventy three thousand & five hundred
Dollars, be raised by a tax to be Assessed [462] on the Polls
& Estates of the Inhabitants of the Town, to defray the Expences
of the Current year. —
Voted, That the Sum of 8484 dollars & 28 Cents now appear-
ing on the Town Treasurers Books as due to Trustees of Neck
Land, be appropriated towards the discharge of the Towns debts,
and all Monies received in future to be Appropriated to the Same
purpose. —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1811. 295
Voted, That the Petition from the Inhabitants of South Bos-
ton respecting Schooling their Children be referred to the School
Committee, who are hereby requested to pay an immediate atten-
tion to the same, and to make such provision for the same, as
they shall think reasonable. —
Theophilus Curtis —
was Chosen Hogreeve & Hayward in place of John Deluce
resigned. —
It is ordered — and the Selectmen are hereby directed &
impowered to appoint or license from time to time suitable
persons to be sweepers, scrapers, & cleansers of Chimneys in
this Town, and whose several Apprentices, shall wear proper
badges, to be appointed by the Selectmen, & whose wages, for
their work & Services in Cleansing Chimneys, the rates from
time to time to be fixed & appointed by the Selectmen. —
Voted, That Hon. William Brown Stephen Codman Esq. Hon.
Thomas Dawes, William Hammett & Oliver Keating Esqrs. be a
Committee to consider of the various modes that may be
adopted of removing the filth of Town, and to examine the places
from which Wharf es may be built [463] for that purpose, and
that they have power to purchase one or more suitable places if
that should be found necessary, & report their doings to the
Board of Health & Selectmen.
Voted, that the Sum of Seven hundred and fifty Dollars, be
allowed & paid unto Hon. Thomas Dawes Esq. for his Salary as
Judge of the Municipal Court the present year.
Voted, that the Sum of fifteen hundred Dollars be allowed &
paid unto William Smith Esq. as Treasurer and Collector of
Taxes the present year he to pay his Clerk, Assistant, Office hire,
and all other expence of Office. —
Voted, That the Sum of One Thousand Dollars be allowed &
paid unto Thomas Clark for his Salary as Town Clerk the year
ensuing.
Voted, that the Sum of Five hundred Dollars be allowed &
paid unto the Town Advocate for his Salary the year ensuing, he
to account with the Town for all fees received by him. —
Voted, that the thanks of the Town be given to the
Moderator. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
296 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
[464.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston duly qualified in Public Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the 4th Day of
July A.D. 1811. 9 O'Clock A.M. -
Thomas Clark
was Chosen Moderator. —
The Committee appointed the last year to make choice of a
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the Anniversary of Indepen-
dence — Reported —
That they had Chosen James Savage Esq.
who has accepted of the Appointment. —
Adjourned to the Old South Church —
12 O'Clock when
AN ORATION
was delivered by James Savage Esq. to commemorate the Inde-
pendence of the United States of America. —
Voted, That the Selectmen be, and hereby are appointed a
Committee to wait on James Savage Esq. in the name of the
Town, and thank him for the elegant and spirited Oration, this
day delivered by him at the request of the Town, upon the anni-
versary of American Independence in which were considered the
feelings, manners, and principles, which produced the great
national event ; and to request of him a copy for the press. —
Voted, That the Gentlemen be, and hereby are appointed a
Committee, to apply to some able learned Gentleman to deliver
an Oration on the 4th day of July 1812 — That day being the
anniversary of the Independence of the [465] United States of
America, wherein the Orator is to consider the feelings, manners,
and principles which led to the great National Event ; as well .
as the important & happy effects, whether General or Domestic,
which have already, or will forever flow from that Auspicious
Epoch. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders & other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston duly qualified & legally warned in Public Town
Meeting Assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 11th Day of
November A. D. 1811 — 10, O'Clock A. M.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read.
Charles Bulfinch Esq. chosen Moderator.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1812. 297
This Meeting was called in conformity to a Law of this Com-
monwealth, Regulating the Selection of Grand, Traverse & petit
Jurors. —
The Law of March 12th. 1808. & the Law respecting Engine
Men passed November 17th. 1808, being read. — it was Voted,
that it is expedient to excuse all Engine Men from serving as
Jurors. —
The Selectmen laid before the Town the names of two lists of
Persons they had selected, [466] one to serve as Grand & Tra-
verse Jurors at the Supreme Judicial Court, & the other to serve
as Petit Jurors at the Court of Common Pleas. —
The foregoing Report being considere'd — it was moved &
Voted. That the Town confirm the doings of the Selectmen. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
1812.
[467.] At a Meeting of the male Citizens of the Town of
Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public Town Meet-
ing assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the ninth day of
March AD. 1812—10 O'Clock A.M. and by adjournment at
3 O'Clock P.M. on the same day — Prayer by the Revd. Mr.
Thacher.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read —
Stephen Codman Esq.
chosen Moderator. —
Laws, & Extracts of Laws — read. —
Thomas Clark
was chosen Town Clerk for the year ensuing — the Oath of Office
was administered to him by Stephen Codman Esq.
Charles Bulfinch Francis Wright
Ebenezer Oliver Joseph Foster
Jonathan Hunnewell Nathan Webb
John May Benjamin Weld and
Joseph Lovering Esquires
were chosen Selectmen for the year ensuing. —
Voted unanimously, That the Thanks of the Town be given to
William Porter Esq. for his faithful services as one of the Select-
men for fourteen years past.
298 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
[468.] Voted, That the choice of County and Town Treas-
urers and Collector be postponed to an adjournment of this
Meeting ; and that a Committee be chosen to examine the state
of the Town Treasury & to request of the Court of the General
Sessions of the peace for the County of Suffolk a statement of the
affairs of the County Treasury — and to consider the expediency
of uniting the office of County & Town Treasurer in the same
person and to report at an Adjournment.
The following Gentlemen were chosen a Committee in consequence
of the foregoing vote — viz.
Josiah Snelling, Redford Webster,
Ephraim Elliot, John Brown,
William Alline, Nehemiah Parsons,
Stephen Codman John Lowell,
Isaac Winslow, Joseph Tilden, &
Isaac P. Davis Joshua Davis Esqs.
Voted, That the Committee Report on the second Monday of
April next, being the thirteenth day of said Month.
Voted, That the Committee be requested to- have their report
printed and distributed for the information of the Inhabitants,
one week at least before the said second Monday in April next. —
William Smith Joseph Coolidge Junr.
William Phillips Joseph Richards
Redford Webster Bryant P. Tilden
[469.] Thomas Perkins William Mackay
Samuel Snelling Ephraim Elliot and
Oziah Goodwin Jonathan Phillips Esquires,
were chosen Overseers of the Poor.
Thomas Melvill Bryant P. Tilden
Andrew Cunningham Nathan Webb
John Winslow Geo. Blcnchard
Stephen Codman Sam1. M. Thayer
John Bray Joseph Tilden
Jona. Hunnewell Thomas Page
Dan1. Messinger Joseph Austin
William Sullivan [47O.] Benja. Rich
Benjamin Smith Joseph Lovering
Nath1. Curtiss Francis J. Oliver
Edward Cruft Gidney King and
James Phillips John D. Williams Esqrs.
were chosen Firewards. —
Voted, That the thanks of the Town be given to Joseph May,
Joseph Head, Benjamin Coates, and Ignatius Sargent Esqrs, for
their faithful services as Firewards for many years past. —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1812. 299
Voted, That in addition to the Selectmen twelve persons shall
now be chosen a School Committee ; and the votes being collected
it appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen, viz.
Revd. W. E. Channing Revd. Joseph S. Buckminster, Revd.
Ch". Lowell,
Dr. Aaron Dexter, Dr. Tho8. Welsh
Arnold Welles Esq., Wm. Smith Esq.
David Greene. Esq, John Phillips Esq.
John Heard Esq, William Prescott Esq.
and Charles Davis Esq.
Voted, That the above named Gentlemen who conjunctly with the
Selectmen, are termed the School Committee, be and hereby are
directed to carry the system of Education adopted by the Town
into operation ; and that said Committee be also authorised &
empower'd conjunctly to manage and regulate the Government of
the Schools : and to execute all the powers relative to the Schools
& [471] School Masters which the Selectmen or such Commit-
tees as are authorised by the Laws of the Commonwealth or by
votes of the town to exercise. —
Messrs. Benjamin White Messrs. Joseph Stodder
John Cogswell Allen Bowker
Wm. Cloustpn Wm. Ellison Junr.
Wm. Ellison Nath1. Glover
Nath1. Bradlee Jur. John Howe Junr.
Noah Doggett Richd. Thayer
Bradk. Loring Ed. J. Robbins
Tho8. Christie Henry Blake
William Green Joseph Tucker
Eleazer Homer Moses Eayres Junr.
were chosen Surveyors of Boaids & other Lumber. —
Messrs. Henry Purkett
Nath1. Howe
John Smith &
James Eunson,
were chosen Cullers of Hoops and Staves. —
Messrs. Thomas Barbour Messrs. Charles Pook
Nath1. Howe John Bannister
Benj Clark John Smith
Gershom Spear Sam1. Smith
James Eunson Tho8. Lewis and
William Lovis
were chosen Cullers of Dry Fish.
Messrs. Benj*. White
William Ellison and
Nath1. Bradlee Junr.
were chosen Fence Viewers. —
300 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
[472.] Messrs. Joseph Cobbett Messrs. Rufus Harrington and
John Deluce Israel Mead Junr.
were chosen Hogreeves.
Messrs. Joseph Cobbett Messrs. Rufus Harrington and
John Deluce, (resign'd) Israel Mead
were chosen Haywards.
Samuel Emmons and
James Phillips Esqrs.,
were chosen Surveyors of Hemp.
Edward Tuckerman and
Josiah Snelling Esqrs.
were chosen Surveyors of Wheat. —
Messrs. John Wells, and
Richard Austin
were chosen Assay Masters. —
The Selectmen were chosen Surveyors of High Way.
Messrs. Francis James,
Michael Homer, and
Samuel Sprague —
were chosen Inspectors of Lime. —
Voted, That Samuel Brown, Wm. Brown, & Stephen Codman
Esqrs. be, and they hereby are appointed a Committee to audit the
accounts of the Town Treasurer, and also those of the Over-
seers of the Poor, & the Board of Health. And said Committee
are directed to report the sum necessary to be raised for the ser-
vices of the present year. —
Voted, That the consideration of all money matters [473] be
referred to the next May Meeting. —
Adjourned to Monday the 13th day of April next.
10 o'Clock A.M.—
At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town of Boston
of twenty one years of age and upwards qualified as the Consti-
tution prescribes & legally warned, in public Town Meeting
assembled, at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 6th day of April A.D.
1812. 9 O'Clock A.M.—
Prayer by the Revd. Dr. Lathrop. —
Warrant for calling the Meeting read. —
Paragraphs of the Constitution or Frame of Government, rela-
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1812. 301
tive to the choice of Governour, Lieutenant Governour, and
Senators, read —
also the Law for new districting the Commonwealth, passed the
present year, read. —
It was then declared by the Selectmen, that no Vote should be
received but such as are unfolded. That the Poll shall be closed
at half past 2 O' Clock P.M. and that the Bells begin tolling at
2 O'Clock and continue for half an hour. —
Persons Voted for as Governor with the number of Votes for
each person — viz —
His Excy. Elbridge Gerry 1833.
Hon Caleb Strong 3830.
Wm Gray 1. Wm Heath 1.
J Q Adams 1. S m1. Dexter 1.
Theodore Sedgwick 1 . Francis Wilby 1 .
[474.] Persons Voted for as Lieutenant Governor, with the
number of votes for each person — viz.
Hon William Phillips 3836.
Hon William King 1820.
Joseph B. Varnum 1. Wm Gray 1.
Wm Heath 1. H. G. Otis 1. Joseph Storey 1.
Aaron Paine 1. Jabez Whiting 1. Ez. A. Bourne 1.
Persons Voted for as Senators for the district of Suffolk, with
the number of votes for each person, viz. —
Hon1. H. G. Otis 3828
Hon1. Jphn Phillips 3831
Hon1. John Welles 3832
Hon1. Peter C Brooks 3829
Hon1. Israel Thorndike 3820
Hou1. David Tilden 1826
Sam1. Brown Esq. 1825
Russell Sturgis Esq. 1825
William Little Esq. 1818
Mr. Caleb Bingham 1823
Wm. Sullivan 1. Wm. Prescott 1. S. H. Walley 1.
Geo. Sullivan 1. Henry Cutter 1.
David Townsend 2. David S. Eaton 1.
Jared Austin 1. C. P. Sumner 1.
Jona. Harris 1. Alexr. Townsend 1.
Wm. Whitwell Junr. 1. Geo. Bond 1.
Richd. Sullivan 1. Jona. Wild Junr. 1.
Attested Copies of return of the persons voted for as Governor,
Lieu'. Governor and Senators for the district of Suffolk sealed up
302 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
in open Town Meeting after the vote had been declared, [475]
to be transmitted to the Secretary of the Commonwealth as pre-
scribed by the Law, and directed as follows viz. —
To Benjamin Homans Esq.
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Votes of the Town of Boston for Governor and Lieutenant
Governor & Five Senators for the district of Suffolk, sealed up
in open Town Meeting. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
At a meeting of the Male Citizens of the Town of Boston on
Monday the 13th. day of April A.D. 1812. Held by adjourn-
ment from Monday the ninth day of March last.
The Committee appointed by the Town at their meeting on the
ninth day of March last, to examine the state of the Town Treas-
ury and the affairs of the County Treasury, have attended to the
duties assigned them, and beg leave to report.
That the approbation of the Inhabitants of the town expressed
towards the persons who formed the Committee on the finances of
the Town the last year, [476] not only by the adoption of all
the measures, which that Committee recommended, but also by
the reelection of the same individuals for the same duties the
present year, affords to them the highest satisfaction, and has
induced them to persevere in their exertions to restore the finan-
cial affairs of the Town to a state of prosperity and order. —
It will be seen by a recurrence to the Report of the Committee
of the last year, that the principal, if not the only cause of the
derangements of the Towns prudential concerns, was the imper-
fect manner in which the past taxes had been collected. It will
be perceived that the Town have always voted sufficient sums to
meet all the public exigences, if the amount voted had been in
all cases or could have been promptly collected. —
But from some imperfection in the system of collection it had
unfortunately happened, that while the Town was paying interest
for a sum not less than 50,000 Dollars, and the County, which
may be considered almost in the same light as the Town, was
indebted to individuals or the Banks nearly to the same amount,
there was due from individuals to the Town on account of past
taxes, the enormous sum of 109,000 dollars ; and what aggravated
this evil in the minds of your Committee, the Town was found to
pay an usurious douceur to its debtors, not for the anticipation of
their taxes, but for the [477] performance of their duty, while
it could demand no interest from those who were delinquent in
the payment of their taxes to the Town.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1812. 303
The Committee having ascertained to their satisfaction that
the above mentioned defect in the collection of the taxes was the
prolific cause of the embarassment of the Towns affairs, recom-
mended a remedy which they flattered themselves would be
effectual.
If the remedy had failed, as it was a new experiment in a case
of some difficulty and delicacy, you Committee trust that such
failure would not, by a liberal & discerning people, have been
attributed to them.
If on the other hand, it shall appear to have been successful be-
yond even the hopes and promises of your Committee, they are
not disposed to assume to themselves any merit from a measure
which appeared to them to be pointed out by the simplest and
most ordinary dictates of prudence and policy.
Your Committee cannot give to their fellow-citizens more sat-
isfactory means of judging of the effects of the system recently
adopted than by reporting to them the amount of taxes laid for
the five years last ensuing, and the amount collected on each tax
prior to the 1st. of March in each year.
Amount of tax 1807 134,231.83
Amount paid 1st March 1808 - - - - 60,626.79
Amount unpaid on 1st. March 1808 $73,605. 4
[478.] Tax for 1808 102,533.33
Amount paid to March 1st. 1809 - - - 51,722.83
due March 1st 1809 50,760.50
Tax for 1809 130,219.98
Amount paid March 1st 1810 - - - - 60,267.51
due March 1st. 1810 - - - - 69,952.47
Tax for 1810 140,306.45
Amount paid to 1st March 1811 - - - 68,848.86
due 1 March 1811 71,457.59
Tax for 1811 (since new system) 135,792.61
Amount paid to I8t March 1812 - - - 116,184.79
Due March 1st. 1812 - - - $19,607.82
Thus it will be perceived, that the amount paid on the tax of
the last year, (without an usurious premium to the debtors of the
Town) is nearly twice as great as the average paid in the same
period, during the four years next preceding, and the amount
due to the town on account of the last years tax is not more than
one third part as great as that of former years.
30 i
CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
The importance of this last idea will be manifest to every man
who feflects that a very large proportion of public and private
debts, are lost by delay ; that the citizen who will not, or who
pretends that he cannot pay his tax during the year in which it is
assessed, is very little likely to pay it either cheerfully or easily
when another is added to it.
The statement of the Town Treasurer, which the Committee will
next exhibit, affords a most salutary lesson [479] on this
subject. It is a commentary on their report, which leaves but
little argument; for while 116,000 Dollars out of 135,000 have
been collected on the last years tax, the town Treasurer does not
acknowledge the Receipt of more than 24,000 dollars during the
past year, out of the large sum of 109,000 due for taxes, laid &
assessed preceding the past year. Your Committee forbear to
press any further remarks on this subject, for the facts them-
selves are too plain and too forcible to require any illustration.
The Committee have received from Town Treasurer, the following
statement of the towns affairs, on the first of March last.
Received on outstanding taxes
D°. on Rents
D°. on Neck Lands -
D°. on Military fines
D°. on Land on Common street &c - -
D°. on tax for 1811
Cash received from State, for States
Poor 6225.94
This amount transferred on Select- ^
mens draft to Town Treasury by a
vote of the Town on account of
trust of Neck land J 8484.28
Recd. of Francis Wright Esq. for an
Engine -._ 75.
Selectmens draft in favor of the New ^
England Insurance office, awarded for
widening Ex[change] lane, paid by a \~ 5500.
note on Interest by order of the j
Selectmen J
24037.94
6317.46
990. 2
188.—
3000.—
116184.79
$150,718.21
20285.22
Doll8. 171,003.43
[48O.] Due from Brazer on Award 5000.
D° Notes for land sold - - 14015.
Selectmens drafts from May 1st 1811
to Feb*. 1812 ------- 48312.09
D°. on D°. May 1811 22037.10
Amount paid thereon -
70349.19
64536.41
5812.78
BOSTON TOWN RECOKDS, 1812.
305
Overseers drafts balance due May
I81. 1811
D°. drawn from May 1st. 1811 to
. 1812
Amount paid
Board of Health
Balance to May 1811 -
Drafts to Feb*. 1812 -
Amount paid to March 1st. 1812
Notes payable May 1st. 1811 - -
Note to New England
Insurance office -
Amount paid to March 1st. 1812
Amount due
10287.83
17559. 3
27846.86
25467.82
317.95
5310.38
$5628.33
5404.38
50317.22
5500.
55817.22
20496.30
55320.92
Amount paid County of Suffolk
Amount paid State Treasurer -
Amount due to the County of Suffolk
Amount due to the State - - - -
61,214
17,853
Boston 4th April 1812
Received - - - -
Paid
William Smith
Balance on hand to New Account
2379.4
223.95
32541.50
20081.
171003.43
168527.41
$.2376.02
From the above Statement it appears that although the tax of
last year has been collected with an unexampled degree of
promptitude, and although the [481] important amount of
168,000 Dollars have been paid by the Town Treasurer within ten
months of the past year, yet that the Town is still greatly in
arrears, owing as your Committee conceive, to the great ballance
still uncollected of the past taxes, amounting in the whole to a
sum exceeding one hundred thousand dollars.
Before your Committee proceed to report on the affairs of the
County, they would beg leave to state, that they apprehend that
further and more energetic measures should be adopted by the
Town Treasurer for the collection of the arrearages of past taxes,
and that although great effects have been already produced by the
prompt measures adopted with regard to the taxes of the last
year, yet they apprehend that the votes of the Town on that
306 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
subject have not been fully complied with, otherwise there would
not have been so considerable a sum still due on the last years
tax. The Committee are of opinion, that a strict and firm
execution of the votes and intention of the Town ought not to
leave on the first of March one dollar uncollected of the past
years tax. If there are, as perhaps there may be, individuals,
overtaxed, or who are unable to pay, the abatements ought to be
made before March so that the current years tax should in every
instance be settled before the Meeting in that month, either by
payment or by abatements, where the parties are either unable to
pay or have been overcharged.
No individual, and certainly no corporation, can expect to have
their affairs in a regular and well ordered state, while they con-
tinue to suffer the debts due to them to accumulate, at the same
time that their expenditures are uniform, and exceed the amount
actually collected.
[482.] The Committee further report, that in pursuance of
the other branch of their commission they made application to the
Hon1. the Justices of the County Court for permission to investi-
gate the affairs of the County ; and that honourable Court, with
great readiness and civility was pleased to authorize four members
of the Towns Committee to call the County Treasurer to a settle-
ment, and to investigate fully the state of the financial affairs of
the County. The Gentlemen thus authorized immediately waited
on the County Treasurer; but they regret to state, that they
found his state of health so feeble as to render it absolutely
impracticable for him to settle his accounts, or to afford them the
information desired by the Town. — They feel it however incum-
bent on them in justice to a respectable citizen to state, that the
County Treasurer claims a balance against the Town, and from
the general course of the county concerns, the small sums paid
over to him in comparison with the numerous demands upon him
in his said capacity, as well as from other circumstances, your
Committee have reason to believe that he would be able to liqui-
date his accounts with reputation to himself, if the state of his
health would permit.
In order however, to enable the town to form a tolerably correct
idea of the state of the affairs of the County, your Committee
subjoin a statement of the situation of the County debts and
credits furnished to them by one of the Justices of the Hon1.
County Court who has been long and intimately acquainted with
its concerns, and who has generally been authorized to settle the
accounts of the County Treasurer. —
[483.] Estimate of Debts due from the County of Suffolk. —
To the Union Bank 14100
To the Boston Bank 12000
To the Massachusetts Bank - - - - 12000
38100.—
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1812. 307
To several Justices of the peace 1200.
To the Sheriff on sundry accounts 1000.
To Depy Sherifs, Constables & Goaler - ... 500.
To Attorney General and Solicitor & county
attorney ----- 300.
To the Coroners 100.—
To the Judge of Probate -.--__.- 140.
To the Physician of the Goal ------- 120.
To Witnesses 500.
To Jurors 1000.
To Stationers & Binders 152.
To Mechanics 250.
To Tudor for rent 138.
For want of documents some debts omitted say - 500.
$44000.
New Court house to complete, viz
Jeremiah Gardner on contract - - - 12000
D°. his extra Bills 2500
14500.—
paid him 8300. —
6200.
Josiah Bemis all his Bills - - - - 33000.
paid him 22500.
10500.—
Wall for Iron doors windows and
railing 1500. —
Painting & Glazing 1000.
Hardware bills 500.
Plastering and other Masons work to
finish 800.
Slates & Slating Roof 900.
Glass 400.
John Lowell, for land bought of him &
•Freeman 5330
10430 60700.
[484.] Amount brought up - - 10430 60700. —
Ezekiel Prices heirs for land unliqui-
dated, say - 1600.
Extra work fitting up the Offices - - 270
12300.
$73000.—
Submitted by
William Donnison Committee
Decr. 318t. 1811.—
County of Suffolk — Statement of taxes for 1810 & 1811. —
whole amount of the County tax for 1810.
308
CITY DOCUMENT No. 11. 5.
Boston's part of 1810 tax is - - - 40489.12
Chelsea's part of 1810 tax is - - 510.88
Whole amount of County tax for 1811
Boston's part of 1811 tax is - - - 44439.28
Chelsea's part of 1811 tax is - - 560.72
Balance of tax for 1810 unpaid,
receivable from Town of Boston - - 22993.83
whole of Boston's tax for 1811 unpaid 44439.28
Chelsea's part of County tax for
1811 unpaid
Decr. 31. 1811.
Outstanding
$41,000.—
$45000.—
67433.11
560.72
$67,993.83
From this statement it will appear, that whenever the Town
Treasurer shall have paid over to the County Treasurer the sums
which have been actually assessed for County expences, and a
great part of which has been received, a very small ballance only
will be due from the County to individuals, or to the Banks. It
is true that from this statement it would seem that the County is
largely indebted to the Banks, and to Private persons ; but it
will be seen that as soon as the Town Treasurer shall have dis-
charged the proportion of taxes due to the County, and assessed
by the Town, the amounts due by the County will be very insig-
nificant: and it is also necessary to remark that one [485] of
the largest sums in which the Town stands indebted is that which
it owes to the County, and it would be therefore erroneous to
consider the whole debt due from the Town, and the debt due
from the County as distinct sums, because as soon as the County
Treasurer shall receive from the Town the amount due to the
County, he will be enabled to discharge nearly the whole amount in
which the County stands indebted. — These remarks have been
more detailed because an opinion has prevailed that the affairs of
the County were in -a deranged & embarrassed state, and that if
examined they would show, that the Town which nearly constitutes
the County, is much more largely indebted than the accounts of
the Town Treasurer lead us to suppose : This idea is proved to
be erroneous, and the amount due from the Town, it will be seen,
includes nearly the whole of the County debt. Considerable
interest has been excited by the erection of the New Court
House ; an edifice called for by every consideration of prudence
and policy. It has been supposed that the erection of this build-
ing would involve the Town and county in enormous expences. —
Your Committee have investigated that subject, and after pro-
curing the estimate of Judge Donnison, who in his capacity of
Judge, both of the Court of Common Picas, and of the County
Court, has been more intimately acquainted with the cost of this
edifice than any other man, as well as from the statement of the
BOSTON TOWN HECORDS, 1812. 309
agent for the erection of the Court House, your Committee find
that the whole cost of that building will not exceed sixty eight
thousand dollars. — It is also an agreeable circumstance that the
Committee are able to add, that nearly the whole of this sum has
been already assessed [486] and raised during the last three
years, in so moderate and judicious a manner, that it has not
appeared materially to increase the ordinary aggregate of the
Towns taxes. — when therefore the outstanding taxes shall have
been collected, and their due proportion paid over to the County, we
shall have the satisfaction to have nearly discharged the bills for
an edifice highly ornamental to the Town, important to the
convenience of the Courts, witnesses and Jurors, and absolutely
essential to the safe preservation of the public records. With
respect to the expediency of uniting the two offices of County &
Town Treasurer in one person, the Committee report, that as the
law now stands, this would be impracticable to effect by any vote
of the Town. The only effect of such a vote would be a recom-
mendation to the citizens to unite their suffrages in the same
person, and as the choice is by ballot, it will be perceived that
such a recommendation might have but little effect on the friends
of candidates for said offices. But your Committee are further
of opinion, that during the present year it would be inexpedient
so to unite the two offices. —
The settlement of the Accounts of the present Treasurer, and
the efficacious measures which ought to be taken by the new
Treasurer, to bring about a system of order in the County affairs,
would for the current year fully occupy an able, intelligent, well
informed accomptant, without permitting him to attend to the
united duties of Town Treasurer & Collector.
Your Committee would, however, recommend that the Town
should furnish an office to the County Treasurer, adjacent to that
of the Treasurer of the Town, and that the County Court be
respectfully requested to enjoin on the County Treasurer to trans-
act all his official business in [487] said apartments. One
object, among many others, to be attained by such arrangement,
is, that persons might not get orders from the County Treasurer
for services rendered to the County while they stood indebted to
the Town for taxes or otherwise.
Your Committee further report, that it is highly expedient, that
the Town Treasurer & Collector should regularly at least once in
every week, pay over to the County Treasurer the proportion due
to the County of the amount received for taxes during such week.
We should then never witness the extraordinary fact of the Towns
being indebted to the County nearly 60,000 Dollars. The County
would not be obliged to procure all its work done at a disadvanta-
geous rate, because payable only in orders for taxes ; and one
step at least would-be taken towards the restoration of order and
regularity, without which no true system of economy can exist. —
Your Committee conclude, by recommending a new injunction
on the Town Treasurer, to cause all the back taxes to be col-
lected, where the assessors shall not abate them, and a literal
310 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
compliance with the vote of last spring as to all taxes which may
be hereafter assessed. —
It ought to be understood, that the taxes should be paid with
the same promptitude as the duties at the Custom house, and the
moment any indulgence is introduced, an indulgence as injurious
to the individual as to the Town, the floodgates of disorder are
thrown open, and the affairs of the Town will continue to be in a
state of derangement ill suited either to its reputation or its
interests.
Josiah Snelling N°. 1.
R Webster N°. 2.
Ephraim Elliot N°. 3.
John Brown N°. 4.
Wm. Alline N°. 5.
Nehh. Parsons N°. 6.
Stephen Codman N°. 7.
Jn°. Lowell N°. 8.
Isaac Winslow N°. 9.
Joseph Tilden, -N°. 10. .
J. P. Davis N°. 11.
Joshua Davis N°. 12.
April 6th. 1812.
[488.] The foregoing Report was read and accepted by the
Town.—
The Town voted to proceed to the choice of County Treasurer,
which vote was reconsidered & three O'Clock PM was assigned,
afterwards it was Voted to postpone the Choice of County Treas-
urer to Friday next 10 o'Clock
Adjourned to Friday next 17th. Instant.
Friday April 17th. 1812.—
The Town met according to adjournment.
Votes for a County Treasurer were received, sorted and counted
by the Moderator & Town Clerk, when it appeared that,
John Winslow Esq. had - - 852 Votes
Thomas Badger Esq. - - - 76 "
Jos. Foster Esq. 27. John Boyle 22. - - - 49 "
Samuel Brewer 7. Nath1. Noyes 6. - - 13 "
Step". Codman Esq. 5. Caleb Bingham2. - - 7 "
James Scott - 2. Benj Homans 2. - - 4 "
Seth Kent - - - - 1. David Tilden Esq. 1. - 2 "
William Smith - - - 1. Josiah Bachelder 1. - 2 "
Andrew Sigourney - 1 . Revd. J S J Gardiner 1 . 2 "
Skinner the younger 1"
whole number 1008 Votes
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1812. 311
William Smith Esq. — was chosen Town Treasurer & Collector
for the year ensuing.
A memorial was received from William Smith Esq., praying
that the Town would allow him an assistant Clerk, for reasons
set forth in his memorial. The same being read it was moved
and Voted,
That the application of the Town Treasurer for the allowance of
a Clerk be referred for consideration, to the Committee chosen in
March to examine the state of the Town and County Treasury,
& that they report at the May Meeting. —
Voted, That the same Committee be desired to examine [489]
particularly the state of the outstanding taxes ; to consider what
instructions are necessary for the assessors relative to abate-
ments ; and in conjunction with the auditors of accounts to con-
sider what amount of tax is necessary and expedient for the
present year & report at the next May Meeting.
Voted, That the Thanks of the Town be given to Stephen Cod-
man Esq. for his services as Moderator.
Then the Meeting was Dissolved. —
At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town of Boston
of twenty one years of age & upwards, qualified as the Constitu-
tion prescribes at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the 14Ul. day of May
A.D. 1812. '9 O'Clock A.M.—
Prayer by the Revd. Dr. Elliot.—
Warrant for calling the Meeting. — read.—
Paragraphs of the Constitution or Frame of Government, which
relate to the choice of Representatives read —
The return of the assistant assessors signifying that the Major
& Minor Polls of this Town for the present year were 10,157.
being also read — The Inhabitants were directed by the Select-
men, to bring in their Votes for Representatives not exceeding
forty five. — The Poll to be closed at half past 1. O Clock. —
After the Poll was closed, the Selectmen proceeded to count &
sort the votes, when it appeared that the following Gentlemen
were Elected Representatives for the year ensuing — viz,
William Smith Esq. Samuel Cobb Esq.
William Brown Esq. Jonathan Hunnewell Esq.
Benjamin Russell Esq. Charles Davis Esq.
312 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Benjamin Whitman Esq. James Robinson Esq.
William Hammatt Esq. Mr. John Parker
Mr. Isaac P. Davis William H. Sumner Esq.
Mr. Ephraim Thayer Mr. Josiah Knapp
Benja. Weld Esq. Mr. Oliver Keating
[49O.] Mr. Nathan Webb Daniel Messenger Esq.
George G. Lee Esq. Mr. William Porter
John May Esq. Sam1. M. Thayer Esq.
George Blanchard Esq. Nath1. Curtis Esq.
Mr. Richard Faxon Mr. Samuel Dunn
Mr. John D. Howard Mr. Thacher Goddard
Mr. Lynde Walter Mr. Jonathan Loring
Mr. Jonathan Whitney Sam1. J. Prescott Esq.
Alexander Townsend Esq. Lemuel Shaw Esq.
James Savage Esq. Charles Jackson Esq.
Henry Sargent Esq. Joseph Tilden Esq.
Mr. William Harris Mr. Barzillia Homes
Mr. Andrew Sigourney Mr. Joseph Pierce
Mr. Thomas Barry Mr. Joshua Ellis
Declaration of the choice was then made and the Meeting was
Dissolved.
At a Meeting of the male citizens of the town of Boston duly
qualified & legally warned in public Town Meeting assembled at
Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the 20th day of May A.D. 1812. 10
oClock A.M.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read —
Hon1. John Phillips Esq.
chosen Moderator. —
The Committee appointed to audit the accounts of the Town,
have attended that service and ask leave to report ; That they
have examined the Town Treasurer's Accounts, and have found
them well vouched & right cast, that a balance remained in his
hands on the first instant, of Four thousand three hundred &
ninety two dollars and sixty one 'cents, which is carried to the
credit of the Town in his new account. — The Committee report
as their opinion, that it will be expedient for the Town to grant a
tax of Seventy five thousand dollars, to be assessed on the Inhab-
itants, to defray the expences [491] of the Town for the cur-
rent year, agreeably to the annexed estimate. And the Committee
presume altho fifteen hundred dollars more is proposed to be
assessed the present year, than was assessed the last year, that
the tax will be less felt by the Inhabitants^ as the County tax
will be much less the present than it was the last year.
BOSTON TOWN RECOBDS, 1812. 313
To meet Selectmens drafts $55000. —
Overseers of the Poor 23000.
Board of Health 7000.
85000
Deduct for Rents 10000
$75000
All which is Submitted
Sam1. Brown
Wm. Brown
Boston May 19th. 1812. — Steph. Codman
The foregoing Report was read and accepted by the Town. —
Voted that the sum of Seventy five Thousand Dollars be raised
by a tax to be assessed on the Polls & Estates of the Inhabitants
of this Town to defray the expences of the current year. —
The Committee appointed by the Town on the 17th. day of
April last, to make certain enquiries and investigations relative
to the allowance to be made to the Town Treasurer, for an
Assistant, and also the state of the taxes outstanding and other
subjects mentioned in the vote of the Town — beg leave to
Report. —
That as it respects the petition of the Town Treasurer & Col-
lector, for an Assistant, or Clerk in his office to be furnished at
the expence of the Town — The Committee beg leave to state —
That by conversing with Mr. Smith (the [492] present Treas-
urer & Collector) it appears that the accumulation of past taxes
and the necessity of a prompt and effectual Collection of them —
has added very much to. the ordinary business of the office. And
as a large amount of taxes is yet outstanding which may, and
probably will not be collected for several months — and as the
Committee think it reasonable that the Treasurer and Collector
should be furnished with an assistant at the Towns expence — to
aid him in the collection of back taxes they therefore beg leave
to recommend the Town to allow Mr. Smith the sum of six hun-
dred dollars for the Salary of an assistant with suitable qualifica-
tions to be appointed by him for this year only, and they beg it
to be distinctly understood that this is in consideration of the
extra trouble arising from the collection of past taxes at present
in arrears, owing to the non collection of them in past years —
and the whole of which they hope will be disposed of the ensuing
year either by payment or abatement. The Committee find
further from Mr. Smith that the Mass of taxes have been collected
by Three Deputy Collectors (instead of Four as originally
allowed by the Town) and that he has divided the grant of
Twelve hundred Dollars (originally made by the Town as the
314 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
compensation to Four Collectors) amongst the Three — this
allowance is considerably increased by the charges of warrants
fifty cents each — summonses Twenty cents each — and a pound-
age on collection of Four Per Cent and it is supposed by Mr.
Smith, that three active & attentive persons could as effectually
collect the taxes as Four and that the Salary three hundred dollars
each with those perquisites would be a sufficient emolument.
The Committee therefore do recommend that the sum fifteen
hundred dollars Per annum be granted to [493] Mr. Smith for
the Salary of Deputy Collectors and assistant Clerk — instead of
twelve hundred Dollars granted the last year. — The Committee
further report, that doubts having arisen on that part of their
authority which relates to instructions to the assessors for the
abatement of taxes assessed prior to the year 1811 they requested
the opinion of counsel on the question of the existing powers of
the permanent Assssors, but not having received that opinion,
the Committee recommend that for the present, and untill the
further order of the Town, the permanent assessor should pro-
ceed in making abatements of taxes, as heretofore, with this
exception however, that no person shall be allowed any abate-
ment for such portion of the taxes assessed upon him for any
real estate of which he was the owner, as were assessed upon the
real estate owned by such person. — The Committee further
report, that in conjunction with the auditors of the Towns
accounts, they have examined the sum necessary to be raised for
the ensuing year, and agree with them in recommending to the
Town to raise the sum of Seventy five thousand dollars for the
Towns current expences for the ensuing year. —
In behalf of the Committee,
Per Order, Joseph Tilden, Secretary. —
Boston 19th May 1812.—
The foregoing Report was Read — & accepted by the Town. —
On the application of the Overseers of the Poor It was moved
and voted, that they be authorized to use control and manage
the whole of the Alms house Estate in such manner as they may
judge most useful to the purposes of that establishment, and that
a major part of them have liberty to lease any part of the land
for a term of years [494] on such conditions as they may think
for the interest of the Town, for the purpose of erecting a hospi-
tal, maniac, workhouse or other buildings for charitable purposes,
and to make and execute all such Deeds as may be necessary.
Voted, That the School Committee be empowered to take imme-
diate measures for the removal or the Center Reading & Writing
School house from the front of the New Court house : and that
for this purpose they be authorized and empowered to enlarge or
rebuild the Latin School house in such a manner as to accommo-
date the reading, writing & Latin Schools.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1812. 315
Voted, that the Selectmen be authorised and empowered to
appropriate for an open passage way to the New Court house,
the whole, or such portion as they shall consider most eligible, of
the land now under and appertaining to the School house in School
street. —
Voted, That if the above Committee shall not consider it necessary
to appropi'iate the whole of said land for the passage way above
mentioned ; that the Selectmen shall be empowered to sell the
remainder of such land, and also a piece of land lying on the
North boundary of Beacon hill & fronting on Derne street to
reimburse in part the expence of enlarging or building the Latin
School house.
Voted, That the sum of Two hundred Dollars be appropriated
towards maintaining a School for African children, under the
direction of the School Committee.
Voted, That the sum of Seven hundred & fifty dollars, be
allowed and paid unto Hon1. Thomas Dawes Esq. for his Salary
as Judge of the Municipal Court the present year.
Voted, That the sum of Fifteen hundred Dollars be allowed
& paid unto William Smith Esq. as Treasurer & Collector of taxes
the present year.
[495.] Voted, That the sum of one thousand Dollars be
allowed and paid unto Thomas Clark for his salary as Town Clerk
the present year.
Voted, that the sum of Eight hundred & sixteen Dollars be
allowed and paid unto each of the three Assessors for their ser-
vices in that office the year ensuing.
Theophilus Curtis chosen Hogreave & Hayward, in place of John
Deluce resigned.
Voted, That the thanks of the Town be given to the Hon1. John
Phillips Esq. for his services as Moderator at this Meeting.
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
At a Meeting of the male Citizens of the Town of Boston qualified
as the law directs, at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the 11th. day of
June A.D. 1812 10 O'Clock A.M. —
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read —
Hon°. Thomas Dawes Esq. was chosen Moderator.
316 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Hon1. Daniel Sargent Esq. offered the following Resolutions,
which were read considered and Unanimously adopted by the
Town — viz,
Resolved ; That in the opinion of this Town, it is of the last
importance to the interests of this Country to Avert the threat-
ened calamity of War with Great Britain ; and also to restore
the freedom of our Commerce ; if these important objects can
be attained, [496] consistently with the safety and honor of the
American Nation.
Resolved that, a Committee of twelve be appointed, to take into
consideration the present alarming state of our public affairs,
in these respects and report what measures, in their opinion, it is
proper for the Town to adopt at this momentous crisis.
The following Gentlemen were chosen on the Committee viz.
Hon John C Jones, Hon1. Thomas Dawes, Hon William Brown,
James Perkins Esq. Hon1. Israel Thorndike, Hon1. Sam1. Dexter,
Hon1. Harrison G. Otis, Hon1. Ed S* Loe Livermore, Hon1.
Dan1 Sargent, Charles Jackson Esq., Cap". Gamaliel Bradford,
Col°. Wm. H Sumner.—
Adjourned to Monday next the 15th. instant, 10 o'Clock
A.M.—
Monday 15 June — 10 o'Clock. A.M.
The Town being assembled, according to adjournment, the fol-
lowing Report was presented by the Committee. —
The Committee appointed by the Town of Boston, to take into
consideration the present alarming state of our public affairs, and
report what measures in their opinion it is proper for the Town
to adopt, at this momentous crisis,
Respectfully Report,
That the recent proceedings of the government of the United
States justify the belief, that measures of direct hostility against
Great Britain have received the sanction of one branch of the
Legislature, and probably have already become law ; or, if sus-
pended, that they will finally be resumed and enforced. — While
the [497] temper and views of the national administration are
intent upon war, an expression of the sense of this Town, will,
of itself, be quite ineffectual, either to avert this deplorable
calamity, or to accelerate a return of peace. — but believing, as
we do, that an immense majority of the people are invincibly
averse from a conflict equally unnecessary and menacing ruin to
themselves, and their posterity ; convinced as we are, that the
event will overwhelm them with astonishment and dismay ; we
cannot but trust that a general expression of the voice of the
people would satisfy Congress that those of their Representa-
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1812. 317
tives who have voted in favor of war, have not truly represented
the wishes of their constituents ; and thus arrest the tendency of
their measures to this extremity.
But should this be hopeless, it will enable the people to com-
bine their operations in order to produce, by constitutional means,
a change of men and measures, and rescue the nation from ruin.
From the commencement of the system of Commercial restric-
tions, the Inhabitants of this Town (Inferior we trust to none in
ardent patriotism and attachment to the Union) have appeared to
render themselves obnoxious to the national administration, and
its partisans in this State, by their foresight and predictions of
the utter inefficacy, destructive operation and ultimate tendency
of this unprecedented and visionary scheme. They could discern
in it nothing but a deliberate sacrifice of their best interests, and
a conformity to the views of France, with whose system it
cooperates, and whose approbation it receives ; and hostility to
Britain whose interests it wounds, and whose resentment it was
calculated to excite. It was for the national Government [498]
to determine, whether the decrees and aggressions of the belliger-
ent powers (which commenced with the European war) would
probably demand of the national honor, retaliation and resistance ;
or whether the peculiar character of the war, and relative situa-
tion of our Country, would justify a suspension of our resentment,
and an adherence to our pacific policy. In the one case, the
years which have elapsed should have been occupied in warlike
preparations, which would now have been imposing and formi-
dable.—
In the other event, it was the dictate of sound policy to pro-
test against the predatory systems which have annoyed our com-
merce, and still to have pursued it by all practicable means. But
government has adopted neither of these courses. It has not pre-
pared to vindicate our commercial rights upon the ocean, where
alone they are assailed ; nor has it permitted the Merchant to in-
demnify himself in any measure for the loss of that commerce
which is interrupted, by a participation in that which is left. But
by a strange & infatuated policy, under the pretence of resisting
the invasion of maritime rights, it has debarred its own Citizens
from the use of the Ocean ; and professing to avenge the injuries
sustained from France and England, it has aggravated them by
its own measures. — The Decrees of France, the Edicts of Eng-
land, and the Acts of Congress, though intended to counteract
each other, constitute in effect, a triple league for the annihila-
tion of American commerce ; and our own Government, as if
weary of waiting for a lingering dissolution, hastens to dis-
patch the sufferer, by the finishing stroke of a British War.
Had the policy of Government been inclined towards resist-
ance to the pretensions of the belligerents, by open war, there
could be neither policy, reason, or justice in singling out Great
Britain as the exclusive object of Hostility. [499] If the ob-
ject of war is merely to vindicate our honor, why is it not declared
against the first aggressor ? If the object is defence and success,
318 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
why is it to be waged against the adversary most able to annoy,
and least likely to yield ? Why at the moment when England
explicitly declares her Orders in Council repealed whenever
France shall rescind her Decrees, is the one selected for an enemy,
and the other courted as a Conqueror? These enquiries lead us
into contemplations too painful to indulge and too serious to
express.
Tho' we cannot discern the least reason for this discrimina-
tion in favor of France, to justify the disproportionate measure
of resentment exhibited against England ; still in a war with the
latter power, there might have been found some consolation had
our country been in any measure prepared. We might have
hoped that success would in some instances have rewarded the
efforts of our squadrons, That our sea coast would have been
in some measure protected, that the gloom of a long and unequal
contest might be relieved by the brilliancy of occasional
exploits. But under present circumstances, there will be no
scope for valour, no field for enterprise, no chance for success,
no hope of national glory, no prospect but of a war against
Great Britain, in aid of the common enemy of the human race;
and in the end an inglorious peace, in which our ally will desert
our interest, and act in concert with our enemy, to shackle &
restrain the commerce of our infant empire, by regulations in
which they will find a common interest.
If your Committee are correct in the opinion that [5OO] these
sentiments are cherished by the great body of the people, it is
highly expedient that they should be expressed by them in their
different Towns & Counties, and that the most speedy and con-
venient mode should be devised to give effect to their will. The
power of the Country is yet in the hands of the people. Union,
energy and resolution will cause the public opinion to be respected.
Our Constitution affords the means of saving our Country, by
changing the men and measures which have brought upon us
our present embarrassments.
It cannot be expected that a great people will quietly consent
that those who represent them should abuse their trust, and
wantonly expose them to ruin and disgrace. If then the people
who are opposed to the present system will move with one accord,
and express their disapprobation, if, influenced by a sense of
their dearest and vital interests, they will unite without party
distinction to save their country from a foreign war, and what is
still worse to be dreaded, a, foreign yoke, " now is the appointed
time, now is the day of Salvation." — But if overawed by power,
humbled by suffering, or restrained by erroneous considerations,
they will submit to be plunged into the troubled Ocean of
European wars, the melancholy consolation will remain for the
inhabitants of Boston, while they bow in submission to the cruel
destiny of their Country, that they have omitted no just occasion
to warn their fellow citizens of its approach.
Wherefore your Committee recommend for the adoption of the
Town the following Resolutions. —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1812. 319
[5O1.] "Whereas the proceedings of the national government
afford reason to conclude, that it is their determination to involve
our Country in a war, with great Britain, and meetings of the
people in a few places have been held, at which measures have
been adopted, and sentiments expressed, calculated to induce
government to persevere in those hostile dispositions ; and it
appearing desireable that the government should have full infor-
mation of the opinions and wishes of the people. —
Therefore Resolved, That under existing circumstances, the
Inhabitants of this Town most sincerely deprecate a war with
Great Britain, as extremely injurious to the interests and happi-
ness of the people, and peculiarly so, as it necessarily tends to an
alliance with France, thereby threatening the subversion of their
liberties and independence.
That an offensive war against Great Britain alone would be
manifestly unjust; and that a war against both the belligerent
powers would be an extravagant undertaking, which is not re-
quired by the honor or interest of the nation Resolved, That we
view with just indignation, and emotions inspired with the love of
our country, the outrages and aggressions which are offered to
our lawful commerce ; and we believe it is the duty of government
to commence and proceed with as much diligence as the resources
of our Country will warrant, in providing for its efficient protec-
tion by a naval force. And we deem all commercial restrictions,
as so many engines of destruction, adopted to complete the ruin
of that portion of our commerce which escapes the rapacity of
foreign aggressors. —
[5O2.] Resolved, That it is the true policy and duty of this
nation to adhere to an impartial neutrality ; to abandon com-
mercial restrictions ; to husband the resources of the country ; to
indemnify itself against the losses to which its commerce is ex-
posed in the present European war, by improving those casual
advantages which arise from this state of things, and which
cannot be expected in a time of profound peace. That to abstain
from efforts of impotent resentment, blind rage, or desperate
policy is not to be deemed submission to any foreign power, but
a conformity to necessities imposed on our country by an over-
ruling Providence, for which our courage and patriotism is not
responsible. That we should endeavour to ride out the storm
which we cannot direct, and that to plunge into the present war
would be a wanton and impious rejection of the advantages with
which the Almighty has blessed our country. —
Resolved, That our free Constitution secures to the people, the
right at all times to meet together in a peaceable manner, and
express their opinions on public men and measures, and to
adopt means for the security of their rights ; and that our fellow
citizens in this, and other commercial states, are earnestly re-
quested to join with us in a public expression of their sentiments
on the system of commercial restrictions and their abhorrence of
war ; and that this Town, should it become expedient, will ap-
320 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
point Committees for the purpose of receiving their communica-
tions, and for corresponding or meeting with them for the
adoption of such constitutional measures, as may be proposed,
for [5O3] restoration of our unalienable commercial rights; for
the security of our peace ; and for the election of such men to
office, as will use their best endeavours for the promotion of those
objects, so essential to the preservation of our constitution, to
the security of our union, and to the prosperity of our country. —
J. C. Jones Chairman —
The foregoing report having been repeatedly read and debated,
was voted to be accepted. —
Voted, That a suitable number of copies of the foregoing report
be printed with the signature of the Moderator, and that the
Selectmen be requested to transmit a copy thereof to each Town
in this Commonwealth.
Voted, That the thanks of the Town be given to Honl. Thomas
Dawes for his services as Moderator.
Then the Meeting was Dissolved
At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the
Town of Boston at Faneuil Hall on Saturday the 4th day of July
A.D. 1812 — 9 o'clock A.M.
Thomas Clark was chosen Moderator.
The Committee appointed the last year to make choice of a
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the Anniversary of Indepen-
dence — Reported, That they had chosen Benjamin Pollard Esq.
who has accepted the appointment. —
Adjourned to the old [5O4] South Church where at 12 o'Clock
AN ORATION
was delivered by Benjamin Pollard Esqr to commemorate the Inde-
pendence of the United States of America.
Voted, That the Selectmen be and hereby are appointed, a
Committee to wait on Benjamin Pollard, Esq. in the name of the
Town, and thank him for the elegant & spirited Oration, this day
delivered by him at the request of the Town, upon the anniversary
of American Independence, in which were considered the feel-
ings, manners & principles, which produced the great national
event ; and to request of him a copy for the press. —
BOSTON Towx RECORDS, 1812. 321
Voted, That the Gentlemen Selectmen be, and hereby are ap-
pointed a Committee, to apply to some able & learned Gentleman
to deliver an Oration on the fifth day of July 1813. (the 4th day
of July in that year falling upon Sunday) the fifth will be cele-
brated as the Anniversary of the Independence of the United
States of America ; wherein the Orator is to consider, the feel-
ings, manners and principles which led to this great national
event; as well as the important and happy effects, whether
general or domestic, which have already, or will forever flow from
that auspicious Epoch.
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[5O5.] At a Meeting of the Male Citizens of the Town of
Boston qualified as the law directs, held on Faneuil Hall on
Thurday the 6th day of August AD 1812. 10 o'Clock A.M.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read —
Benjamin Weld Esq.
was chosen Moderator. —
Petitions for calling the Meeting — read. —
A motion was made by Col°. Sumner that the Town adopt the
following Resolutions — viz.
The Inhabitants of the Town of Boston, have learnt with heart-
felt concern, that in the City of Baltimore a most outrageous
attack, the result of deliberate combination, has been made upon
the freedom of opinion and the liberty of the press. — An infuri-
ate mob has succeeded in accomplishing its sanguinary purposes,
by the destruction of printing presses and other property, by
pulling down buildings that were merely leased to the conductors
of those presses, by violating the sanctuary of dwelling houses,
breaking open the public prison and dragging forth from the
protection of civil authority, the victims of their ferocious pur-
suit, guilty of no crime but the expression of their opinions, and
completing the tissue of their enormities, by bruises, wounds &
murders accompanied with the most barbarous & shocking indig-
nities.
In the circumstances attending the origin, the progress, and
the catastrophe of this Bloody scene, we discern with painful
emotion, not merely an aggravation of the calamities of the
present unjust and ruinous war, but a prelude [5O6] to the dis-
solution of all free government and the establishment of a reign
of Terror. It is beside, marked with a strong resemblance to the
early excesses of the French revolution, when opinion was pun-
ished with death, and when mobs were employed in the breaking
322 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
open of prisons & the sacrifice of many innocent persons who
sought protection within their walls. Mobs by reducing men to
a state of nature defeat the object of every social compact. They
are equally dangerous to Governments they attempt to subvert,
and to those who court their support & connive at their outrages.
But of all Mobs those which volunteer professedly in support of
Government are the most to be dreaded, unless their assistance is
openly and promptly rejected. By accepting or even tolerating
such dangerous allies, it becomes manifest that a Government
dares not confide in its own strength, or in the unbiassed appro-
bation of the people. Opposition is discouraged to the violence
of such a mob, because it assumes to represent and enforce the
will and pleasure of Government, and the banditti, who unre-
proved and uncontradicted lead the lawless multitude, feel the
confidence of commissioned officers. In such a state the civil
magistrate finds an excuse for his inaction, or a veil for his cor-
ruption. The sober citizen who trembles in beholding the fury
of the mob, seeks refuge from its dangers by joining in its
acclamations. The laws are silenced. — New objects of violence
are discovered. Danger besets all men of all parties in succes-
sion. The Government of the nation and the Mob Government
change places with each other. The accessory [5O7] becomes
the principal — The mob erects its horrid crest over the ruins of
liberty, of property, of the domestic relations of life and of civil
institutions ; until! satiated or fatigued with slaughter it resigns
its bludgeons and its pikes at the feet of a dictator, and raises
its bloody hands to worship some God of its Idolatry, to whose
more tolerable despotism all ranks of men become ready to
submit. —
When it is considered that this Country passed through a rev-
olution, involving its dearest rights, without a single instance of
ferocious and sanguinary excess on the part of the people, thereby
affording a memorable proof of their moral feelings, their virtue
and enlightened character : and when it is also considered that
the present unhappy war, so repugnant to the wishes and feelings
of an immense majority of native citizens, does not involve
interests in any degree comparable with those which were at
stake in our revolutionary war ; it is derogatory, and inconsistent
with the American character, that in the commencement of such
a war, excesses should be committed which the virtue of our citi-
zens would not endure in a crisis when our liberties were in
danger and our country actually invaded by standing armies.
We are therefore compelled to believe that the outrages at Balti-
more were instigated by foreigners who in their own Country
have been familiarized to similar scenes, and that French emis-
saries are the principal agents, and the few deluded natives who
joined them are merely instruments in their hands.
While these alarming scenes in a sister state, excite in us
grateful emotions towards the Almighty Disposer [5O8] of
human events for the quiet, peace, good order and unanimity
which we are permitted to enjoy, it behooves us to exercise
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1812. 323
/
becoming vigilance for the preservation of these blessings.
Although a vast majority of the people of this Town and vicinity
are deeply impressed with a love of order and a horror of mobs,
we ought to have too much knowledge of the human character
and too intimate an acquaintance with history not to know, that
a few unprincipled assassins may endanger the peace and lives
of thousands of the well disposed citizens. —
While such wretches who under the cover of night attempt their
enterprises, are organized, united and systematic the peaceable
citizens unarmed & unconscious of danger, are without system
& without plan — untill the scaling ladders of the mob are at
their windows, and their torches at their doors. —
Therefore — Resolved, as the sense of the Inhabitants of this
Town, that the late horrible proceedings in Baltimore in first
deliberately demolishing a free press and the house in which it
was established, the repetition of that attack after a long interval,
the violation of the prison which has ever been considered a
sanctuary both for the innocent and the guilty, and the barbarous
massacre of one or more citizens there confined, for no other
offence than their having defended their own dwelling, and the
freedom of the press, after the civil authority had neglected &
refused to protect them, merits the most unqualified censure and
calls for the most alarming apprehensions for the internal peace
of our beloved country.
Resolved, that while we are not disposed to an [5O9] unreason-
able jealousy of the constitutional authority, nor to impute to our
Rulers without full proof, and indifference to the rights of the
citizens ; we cannot refrain from expressing our regret that the
President of the United States, in whose vicinity and for the
pretended support of whose measures the excesses were com-
mitted, has not thought proper to interfere in any known mode
for their suppression ; especially as the interdiction of shipments
by the rioters and other outrages are violations of the laws of the
United States, and as the influence of his high station would
probably not have been slighted by these pretended supporters of
his authority — we still confide in the hope that the President
will not think it incompatible with his high station to express his
disapprobation of these enormities. —
Resolved That we are alarmed, astonished and confounded to
find, that a paper published at the seat of Government, and
which is understood on some occasions, to be its organ, not only
led the way to these scenes of confusion, but has impliedly ap-
proved and justified them, & that while no mention was made of
this late horrible massacre in which the blood of our oldest revo-
lutionary officers flowed in the streets of Baltimore, a severe com-
mentary was issued in that paper against the spirited address of
a republican Magistrate of New York, because he expressed his
abhorrence of Mobs. We will not admit the conclusion which
these facts would seem to warrant, that these Mobs are not dis-
countenanced by the Executive of the United States, we would
324 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
rather consider them as of French origin and the first fruits of
that unnatural and dreadful alliance into which we have entered,
in fact, if not in form.
Resolved, that it is the duty of every good citizen [51O] with-
out distinction of party, to furnish himself, forthwith, with suit-
able arms and equipments, and to hold himself ready at a
moments warning to protect and support the magistrates and
Sheriff of this County, in suppressing every riot, tumult, or un-
lawful assembly ; whatever may be the political opinions of the
persons against whom the same are directed ; and that the
Honble. Daniel Sargent, Hon. J. C. Jones, Major William
Sullivan, Col°. Henry Sargent, Joshua Davis Esquire, Major
Charles Davis, Capn. John Cotton, Cap". Henry Purkett,
Cap". Ozias Goodwin, Major Joseph Tilden, Col. George
Sullivan & Cap". Jona. Chapman
be a Committee to prepare articles of association, for this pur-
pose ; and to cause the same to be offered for signature to. every
Citizen of the Town ; and to do whatever further may be neces-
sary to carry into effect the object of this resolution. —
Resolved, That the said Committee be desired forthwith to cause
to be assigned alarm posts for each Volunteer or other Company
of Militia, and to fix and publish the signals of alarm, and to
communicate the same to the Sheriff of this County.
Resolved, That the Selectmen of the Town of Boston, be and
hereby are requested to take all proper & legal measures, which
may in their opinion be necessary, for the preservation of the
public order and tranquility of the Town.
Resolved, That we sincerely condole with the good people of
Baltimore and Maryland, upon the loss of those highly respect-
able Citizens who have fallen victims to the unhallowed fury of a
Foreign Mob ; we consider them Martyrs to the cause of liberty ;
and to the survivors we offer an Asylum from the rage of
foreigners, and our assurances of co-operating with them in
any measures to save our Country. —
[511.] Resolved, That those outrageous proceedings are in
our opinion attributable to the present wanton, impolitic and
unjust war, and we fear, but a prelude to greater evils justly to
be apprehended — and that we perceive no refuge from destruc-
tion, but in a change of our present rulers ; and that we are
ready to support in the election to the public offices, all those
who are advocates for peace, without distinction of party. —
Resolved, That while we abstain from all unconstitutional meas-
ures, we will maintain & exercise the freedom of speech and of
the press, untill our latest breath, undismayed by the frowns of
power, the glitter of arms, the threats of placemen, or the vio-
lence of Mobs. —
The foregoing Resolutions being read and debated — a motion
was made by George Blake Esq. to commit them for amend-
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1812. 325
ment — The Question being put it passed in the negative by a
very large majority.
The Question was then taken on the Resolutions and passed
nearly unanimously in the affirmative.
The article in the Warrant, "To take into consideration, the
expediency of choosing, and if the Town shall see fit to choose
Delegates, to correspond with, and meet such other Delegates, as
have been or may be chosen in other counties, whenever such
elections shall have been generally made in the different counties
in the state ; provided the public exigencies shall appear to
require the meeting of such a Convention to consult together for
the common good; and to adopt such measures as the public
interest may require." being read. —
The HonWe. Samuel Dexter Esq. rose, and moved that the
subject of choosing Delegates, be indefinitely postponed.
[512.] The subject was debated untill past 2 o'Clock —
when a motion to adjourn was put & carried in the affirmative.
Adjourned to tomorrow 10 o'Clock.
Friday August 7th. 10 o'Clock A.M.
Met according to adjournment.
The motion of Mr. Dexter for an indefinite postponement was
debated until nearly 2 o'Clock — when the question was taken &
passed in the negative by a large Majority.
It was then (nearly unanimously) voted, That the Hon1. Har-
rison G. Otis, Honble. John C. Jones, Hon1. Christopher Gore,
Doct. John Warren, Hon1. Ed S*. Loe Livermore, Hon1. Daniel
Sargent, Hon1. Artemus Ward, William Parsons Esq. Hon1.
Thomas Dawes, Theodore Lyman Esq. Joseph Head Esq. William
Sullivan Esq. Samuel Parkman Esq. Charles Jackson Esq. Gen.
Arnold Welles, James Perkins Esq. Warren Dutton Esq. David
Sears Esq., & Benjamin Gorham Esq. with one other Delegate
to be appointed by the town of Chelsea, if said town shall think
proper to choose one — be and they are hereby appointed Delegates
for the County of Suffolk to correspond with, and meet such
other Delegates, as have been, or may be chosen in other Coun-
ties, whenever such elections shall have been generally made in
the different Counties of the State ; provided the public exigen-
cies shall appear to require the meeting of such Convention ;, to
consult together for the common good, and to adopt such meas-
ures as the public interest may require.
Voted, That the Town of Chelsea be invited to join with
[5 13] us in the measures proposed in the foregoing vote ; and
to choose one Delegate for the same purpose, so as to complete
the Representation of this County in any Convention that may be
assembled as aforesaid. —
326 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Voted, That the thanks of the Town be given to Benja. Weld
Esq. for his services as Moderator. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Male Citizens of the Town of Boston,
qualified as the law directs, at Faneuil Hall on Wednesday the
7th. day of October A D 1812.— 10 o'Clock A.M.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read. —
Honble. Thomas Dawes,
was chosen Moderator.
Messrs. Joseph Austin & Robert Williams, were chosen Select-
men, in room of Francis Wright and John May Esq. deceased.
Revd. Horace Holley, Peter O. Thatcher Esq. Mr. Francis J.
Oliver & Dr. John C. Warren, were chosen Members of the
School Committee, in the room of J. S. Buckminster & David
Green Esq. deceased, and of John Phillips and William Prescott
Esq. resigned. —
Voted, That Hon1. Thomas Dawes, Benjamin Russell Esq.
Jonathan Hunnewell Esq. Charles Bulfinch Esq. & Mr. Andrew
Sigourney be a Committee to take into consideration the applica-
tion of Mr. John Odin " That the Town would sell or lease a
small piece of land in the rear of his warehouse, through which
the common Sewer passes " & have full power to sell or lease, by
deed or deeds, [514] by public Auction or otherwise the said
land on the best terms they can for the benefit of the Town. —
Voted, That the Selectmen, Overseers of the Poor, and the
Members of the Board of Health, be constituted and appointed a
Committee of Finance, to superintend the administration of the
monied concerns of the Town. —
It shall be the duty of this Committee, and they are hereby
empowered, by sub-committees or otherwise, to consult with the
Treasurer on the form and manner in which the Books of his
office shall be kept, to attend to the collection of Taxes, and to
discharge of the duty of the Collector and his Deputies ; and to
advise the Assessors relative to abatements. —
And it shall be the duty of said Committee, in conjunction
with the Treasurer, to prepare a clear and well defined statement
of the Treasury & of monied concerns of the Town ; to be handed
to the Auditors of Accounts for their inspection, and to be at
their disposal, to be laid before the Town at the annual meeting
in May. —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1812. 327
It was moved to recommend to the Justice of the Court of
Sessions to extend the debtors limits to the whole Town of
Boston — The question being taken by polling, it appeared there
were 79 against the motion & 75 in favour of it — and so passed
in the negative. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved. —
[515.] At a legal Meeting of the Inhabitants of the Town
of Boston, duly qualified to vote for Representatives in the Gen-
eral Court of this Commonwealth, at Faneuil Hall on Monday the
2d. day of November A.D. 1812. 9 o'Clock, A.M.—
Prayer by the Revd. Dr. Baldwin. —
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read. —
Paragraphs of a Resolve of the General Court for choosing one
Representative in the Congress of the United States for Suffolk
district — read. —
The Inhabitants were informed that the Poll would be closed
at 1 O'clock — the Bells to commence tolling at half past 12
O'Clock.—
Persons voted for as a Representative for the Suffolk District
in this Commonwealth in the next Congress of the United States,
viz,
Honble. Artemus Ward - - - - 1527—
Revd. Horace Holly 5. William Gray Esq. 4 - - 9 —
Samuel Dexter Esq. 2. Loammi Baldwin Esq. 2 4
Caleb Bingham Esq. 1. Sam1. Livermore Esq. 1 2
William Sullivan Esq. 1. Wm H. Sumner Esq. 1 2
Thomas OSelfridge Esq. 1. Daniel Tuttle 1 - - 2—
Thomas Joy Junr. 1 1 —
And declaration made thereof by the Selectmen in public
Town Meeting. —
A return of the doings of this Meeting was made out (con-
formable to the one in the Town officer) and put into the hands
of Alden Bradford Esq., Secretary of the Commonwealth, by the
Town Clerk.—
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[516.] At a Meeting of the Inhabitants of the Town of
Boston, duly qualified to vote for" Representatives to the General
328 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Court of this Commonwealth, at Faneuil Hall on thursday the 12
day of November AD 1812 — 9 O'Clock A.M.
Prayer by the Revd. Mr. Gardiner.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read —
The Inhabitants were directed by the Selectmen to bring in
their written or printed votes for five persons as Electors of Presi-
dent and Vice President of the United States, for the District of
Suffolk, Essex and Middlesex. —
The votes were received untill 2 O'Clock when the Selectmen
declared the Poll to be closed — the votes were then sorted &
counted in open Town Meeting, & a Return made out and directed
to the Secretary of the Commonwealth, as follows, viz.
At a legal Town Meeting held at Boston in the County of
Suffolk on the Twelfth day of November AD. 1812 for the
choice of Electors of President & Vice President of the United
States, the undernamed Persons had the number of votes to their
names respectively annexed, viz.
Hon1. Harrison Gray Otis Esq. 3129
Hon1. Nathan Dane Esq. 3130
Hon1. Jeremiah Nelson Esq. - 3130
Abraham Bigelow Esq. 3129
Gen1. John Walker 3129
Hon1. William Gray Esq. 831
[517.] Hon1. Samuel Brown Esq. 830
Moses Townsend Esq. 830
William Pearce Esq. 830
Samuel Hoar Esq. 830
Samuel Dexter Esq. 1. Elisha Ticknor Esq. 1. John Blanchard 1.
William Austin 1. Thomas Burley 1. —
Sorted, counted and sealed in presence of
Charles Bulfinch ~)
Ebenr. Oliver
Jona. Hunnewell •
Jos. Foster
Nathan Webb
Benj Weld 2
Joseph Levering cc
Joseph Austin
Rob*. Williams J
Attest, Thomas Clark, Town Clerk.
Declaration of the state of the Votes was then made, & the
Meeting was Dissolved
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1813. 329
1813
[518.] At a Meeting of the Male Citizens of the Town of
Boston duly qualified and legally warned in public Town Meet-
ing assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the eighth day of
March A.D. 1813 — 10 O'Clock A.M.—
Prayer by Revd. Mr. Eaton.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read —
Hon1. John Phillips Esq. was chosen Moderator.
Laws respecting the Election of Town Officers — read —
Thomas Clark
was chosen Town Clerk for the year ensuing —
The Oath of office was administered to him by the Honorable
Moderator. —
Charles Bulfinch, Ebenezer Oliver, Jonathan Hunnewell, Joseph
Foster, Nathan Webb, Benj". Weld, Joseph Lovering, Joseph
Austin and Robert Williams Esquires were chosen Selectmen for
the year ensuing.
The oath respecting Elections, required by law to be taken by
the Selectmen, was Administered to them by the Moderator.
William Smith William Phillips
Redford Webster Thomas Perkins
Samuel Snelling Ozias Goodwin
Joseph Coolidge Jur. Joseph Richards
Bryant P. Tildeii William Mackay
Ephraim Elliot Jonathan Phillips Esquires
were chosen Overseers of the Poor. —
[519.] Thomas Melvill Andrew Cunningham
John Winslow Stephen Codman
John Bray Jonathan Hunnewell
Daniel Messinger William Sullivan
Benjamin Smith Nath1. Curtis
Edward Cruft James Phillips
Bryant P. Tilden Nathan Webb
George Blanchard Samuel M Thayer
Joseph Tilden Thomas Page
Joseph Austin Benjamin Rich
Gedney King Francis J Oliver
Joseph Lovering John D. Williams
were chosen Fire Wards. —
330
CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Voted, That in addition to the Selectmen twelve persons, shall
now be chosen a School Committee; and the votes being
collected it appeared that the following Gentlemen were chosen,
viz.
Revd. William E. Channing
Revd. Horace Holley
Doctr. Thomas Welsh
Charles Davis
Peter O. Thacher
William Smith
Revd. Charles Lowell
Doctr. Aaron Dexter
Doctr. John C. Warren
John Heard Jur.
Francis J. Oliver
William Welles Esquires.
Voted, That the above named G-entlemen, who conjunctly with
the Selectmen are termed the School Committee, be and hereby
are directed to carry the system of Education adopted by the
Town into operation ; and that said Committee be also authorized
& empowered to manage and regulate the Government of the
Schools ; and to execute all the powers relative to the Schools &
School Masters, which the Selectmen or such Committees are
authorized by the laws of the Commonwealth or by votes of the
Town to exercise.
Messrs. Benjamin White
William Clouston
Nath1. Bradley Junr.
Braddock Loring
[52O.] William Green
Joseph Stodder
William Ellison Junr.
John Howe Junr.
Ed. J Robbins
Joseph Tucker
Messrs. John Cogswell
William Ellison
Noah Doggett
Thomas Christie
Eleazer Homer
Allen Bowker
Nath1. Glover
Richard Thayer
Henry Blaek
Moses Eayres Junr
were chosen Surveyors of Boards & other Lumber.
Messrs. Henry Purkett
Nath1. Howe
Messrs. John Smith
Benja. Clark
were chosen cullers of Hoops and Staves.
Messrs. Thomas Barbour
Benja. Clark
Charles Pook
John Smith
James Brown
were chosen Cullers of Dry Fish.
Messrs. Nath1. Howe
Ger shorn Spear
John Bannister
Benja. Owen
William J. Hammatt
Messrs. Benjamin White
Nath1. Bradlee Junr. and
William Ellison —
were chosen Fence viewers. —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1813. 331
Messrs. Joseph Cobbet
Rufus Harrington (resigned)
Israel Mead Jr. and
Theophilus Curtis —
were chosen Hogreeves and Hay wards.
Samuel Emmons and
James Phillips Esquires,
were chosen Surveyors of Hemp. —
Edward Tuckerman and
Josiah Snelling Esquires,
were chosen Surveyors of Wheat.
Messrs. John Wells and
Richard Austin,
were chosen Assay Masters.
Messrs. Michael Homer
Francis James and
Samuel Sprague, —
were chosen Inspectors of Lime.
The Selectmen were chosen surveyors of highways.
[521.] William Smith Esq. — was chosen Town Treasurer
and Collector for the ensuing year. —
Votes — for a Treasurer for the County of Suffolk were received
sorted and counted by the Moderator and Town Clerk — when it
appeared
That John Winslow Esquire had 246 votes
and William Smith Esquire 1 — d°. —
Voted, That Samuel Brown, John Lowell and John Welles
Esquires be, and they hereby are appointed a Committee to audit
the accounts of the Town Treasurer, and also those of the Over-
seers of the Poor, & the Board of Health. And said Committee
are directed to report the sum necessary to be raised for the
services of the present year.
Voted, That the consideration of all money matters be referred to
next May Meeting
The following By Law was passed by the Town, viz
It is hereby ordered, That whosoever shall at any time
hereafter exercise the dangerous practice of Coursing or coasting
on Sleds in any of the streets of this town, shall forfeit and pay
the sum of Two Dollars for every offence, to be paid by each
332 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
offender respectively ; which fine or penalty shall be paid, where
any offender herein shall happen to be under age, by the parent or
guardian of any such offender.
Voted, That the Selectmen be requested to lay the foregoing
By law before the Court of Sessions for confirmation. —
On the Petition of a number of the Inhabitants, "to adopt
measures to remedy the growing evil of forestalling the Market."
it was
Voted, That Peter O Thacher Esq., Benjamin Russell Esq.
[522] and Mr. Joseph Callender be a Committee to consider
what measures it will be proper for the Town to adopt in order to
remove the evil complained of, & to report the next May
meeting. —
Voted, That the Thanks of the Town be given to Arnold
Welles Esq. for his faithful services as one of the School Com-
mittee for many years past.
Voted, That the Thanks of the Town be given to the Hon1.
John Phillips Esq. , for his services as Moderator of this Meeting. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town of Boston
of twenty one years of age and upwards qualified as the Consti-
tution prescribes and legally warned in public Town Meeting
assembled at Faneuil Hall on Monday 5rh day of April A.D.
1813 9 O'Clock A.M.—
Prayer by Revd. Mr. Channing —
"Warrant for calling the Meeting — read. —
Paragraphs of the Constitution or Frame Government, relative
to the choice of Governor, Lieutenant Governor and Senators —
read. Also the Law for districting the Commonwealth for the
choice of Councillors & Senators. — read. —
It was then declared by the Selectmen that no printed vote
would be received, and that the vote should be put into the box
unfolded. —
It was afterwards declared that the Poll [523] should be
closed at 2 0 Clock and that the bells begin tolling at half past
1 O'Clock. —
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1813. 333
Persons voted for as Governour with the number of votes for
each person — viz.
His Excellency Caleb Strong 3571
Hon1. Joseph B. Varnum ---------- 1446
Hon1. Samuel Dexter 40
Hon1. William Eustis 8
H. G. Otis 1 Josiah Bradlee 1 2
Joshua Ellis 1. Benj Austin 1. ------- 2
5069.—
Persons voted for as Lieutenant Governour with the number of
votes for each person, viz. —
His Honor William Phillips Esq. 3578
Hon1. William King 1484
C. Strong 1. Wm. Gray 1. Josiah Marshall 1. - - 3
Amos Lewis 1. S. Dexter 1. James Lloyd 1. - - 3
William Eustis 1 1
5069
Persons voted for as Senators for the district of Boston in the
County of Suffolk, with the number of votes for each person,
viz. —
Hon1. John Phillips - -
Hon1. Israel Thorndike
Hon1 Josiah Ouincv
3597
3594
3594
3599
3593
1459
1460
1458.
1457.
1456.
Hon1. John Welles - - -
Hon1. Thomas H. Perkins
Hon1. David Tilden - -
Samuel Brown Esq
------
Jonathan L. Austin
Caleb Bingham Esq,
William Little Esq.
[534.] John C. Jones Esq. - 2.
Thomas L. Winthrop - 1.
Samuel Cobb - - - 1
Arnold Welles 2
William Sullivan - - 1
Sam1. F. Coolidge - - 1.
William Beal - - - 1
Samuel May - - - 1
Jona. Hunnewell - - 1
Gardner Chandler - - 1
Esq. - -
Russell Sturgis 3 - -
Richard Sullivan 3
Stephen Codman 1 - -
William Brown 1
William Coolidge 1
Edward Harris 1 - -
Samuel Orcutt 1 - -
Henry Messinger 1
John Kuhn 1 - - -
Benj Weld 1 - - -
0
4
2
3
2
2
2
•2
8
2
1
Attested Copies of return of the persons voted for as Gov-
ernour, Lieutenant Governour and Senators for the district of
334 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Boston, in the County of Suffolk sealed up in open Town Meet-
ing, after the vote had been declared, to be transmitted to the
Secretary of the Commonwealth as prescribed by the law, and
directed as follows — viz*. ,
To Alden Bradford Esq.
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Votes of the Town of Boston for Governour, Lieutenant Gover-
nour and Five Senators for the district of Boston, in the County
of Suffolk, Sealed up in open Town Meeting.
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
At a Meeting of the Male Inhabitants of the Town
of Boston of twenty one years of age & upwards, qualified as the
Constitution prescribes at Faneuil Hall on Thursday the 13th day
of May A.D. 1813. 9 o'clock A.M.
Prayer by the Revd. Mr. Holley. —
"Warrant for calling the Meeting — read —
Paragraphs of the Constitution relating to the choice of Repre-
sentatives— read — also the laws of the State regulating the
election of Representatives — read —
The return of the Assessors signifying that the Major & Minor
Polls of this Town for the present year were 8826 — being also
read — The Inhabitants were directed to bring in their votes for
Representatives not exceeding thirty nine. —
Votes were received by the Selectmen untill 1 O'Clock when the
Poll was closed. They then proceeded to sort and count the
votes, when it appeared that the whole number of votes given in
was 1065 — necessary to make a choice 533. — The following
(Thirty nine) Gentlemen had a Majority and were declared to be
chosen — viz*.
William Smith - Charles Davis
Harrison G. Otis Benjamin Whitman
James Lloyd James Robinson
Daniel Sargent William Hammatt
Jonathan Hunnewell William H. Sumner
Benjamin Russell Ephraim Thayer
William Sullivan Benjamin Weld
Stephen Codman Oliver Keating
[526.] Nathan Webb Thacher Goddard
Daniel Messenger Lynde Walter
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1813. 335
George G. Lee Samuel J Fresco tt
William Porter Lemuel Shaw
Samuel M. Thayer James Savage
George Blanchard Jonathan Loring
Nathaniel Curtis Joseph Pierce
Richard Faxon Andrew Sigourney
Samuel Dunn Thomas Barry
John D Howard William Harris
Jonathan Whitney Joseph Tilden
and Richard Sullivan —
• Then the Meeting was Dissolved —
At a meeting of the Male Citizens of the Town of Boston
duly qualified and legally warned, assembled at Faneuil Hall on
Monday the 24th day of May AD 1813 — 10 O'Clock AM
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read.
Hon1. John Phillips chosen Moderator.
The Selectmen in conformity to Law passed at the last session
of the General Court, laid before the Town a list of Persons they
had selected to serve as Grand & Traverse Jurors at the Courts
in this State & at the United States Courts. — The Report of the
Selectmen was considered — and it was Voted. That the Town
confirm their doings. —
The Committee on Accounts [527] made the following
Report.
The Subscribers a Majority of the Committee appointed to
audit the accounts of the Town, have attended to that service,
and ask leave to report, That they have examined the Town
Treasurers accounts, and have found them duly vouched, and
right cast, that it appears there was a balance of Cash in his
hands, on the first Instant of Three thousand and ninety one
Dollars & thirty five Cents, which has been placed to the credit
of the Town in his new Account. —
The Committee would also report, as their opinion, that it would
be expedient for the Town to grant a Tax of Seventy five thou-
sand Dollars, to be assessed on the Inhabitants, to defray the
Expences of the Town for the current year, it being the sum that
was granted the last year. — Although it would have been desire-
able in the minds of the Committee, from the existing depression
of affairs, incident to a state of War, to have stated a less sum,
than they have now reported, to be assessed upon the inhabitants,
Yet as the debts of the Town unprovided for, will probably
amount to fifty or sixty thousand dollars, the Committee could
not feel themselves justified in reporting a less sum. —
336 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
But when it is considered that for the security of the Rights &
property as well as the convenience & comfort of the Inhabitants
within a few years several new and extraordinary objects have
been obtained by the expenditures of the Town, such as " the
Alms House"" — " Faneuil Hall." The "County House" —
Burial Ground — widening of Streets &c — The amount of the
present debt of the Town ought not perhaps to be a subject of
surprise or regret. — These expences will be found to amount to
more than Two hundred thousand Dollars. — In no period since
the first settlement of the Town have the Inhabitants in the same
number of years been called on to contribute so largely, nor so
many objects of permanent utility, or importance been obtained.
To this Cause & to the late decline of Commerce probably may
be attributed no inconsiderable [528] part of the loss that has
been suffered by the Town, from the large amount in small Taxes
which remain uncollected. —
And the Committee, with deference would further observe, that
they do not at present see any practicable means of extinguishing
the debt of the Town, but by the effect of a retrenchment on the
part of its expences, now especially on those which relate to
improvements. — This in a few years they hope by degrees would
extinguish it. An increase of Taxes at this time for that pur-
pose the Committee have not the temerity to recommend ; but to
avoid, as far as may be possible hereafter, any losses to the
Town, in the collection of Taxes, the Committee in accordance
with the report of the sub-committee of Finance, presented here-
with, would recommend as a salutary measure, that the Treasurer
be instructed to effect a more speedy collection of the Taxes
which may hereafter be committed to him, as well as of those
which are outstanding. —
And agreeably to another report of the sub-Committee "of
Finance herewith submitted, they recommend " That application
" be made to the General Court for such alteration of the Law
" as may make the sums taxed on Real Estate a lien, upon said
"Estate which in Case of transfer of the property would secure
" the Tax to the Town " — And further that all such powers may
be given to the Treasurer & Collector of Taxes as that he may
by a vigilant use of them enforce a more equitable adjustment of
the public burthens and remove the evils to which the present
system is liable. — Should the aforesaid sum of Seventy five
thousand Dollars be directed by the Town to be assessed on the
inhabitants the Committee would recommend that it be appro-
priated as follows
To the drafts of the Selectmen - - - - 53,000
D°. - - of Overseers of the Poor - - 23,000
D°. - - of Board of Health - - - - 7,000
$83,000
Deduct for Rents in income 8,000
to be assessed on the inhabitants for the j^ear 1813. — , $75,000
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1813. 337
This Report is
[529] with all due Respect submitted for the consideration of
the Town.
Samuel Brown ) r
John Welles }L 1 '~
The foregoing Read, considered & accepted by the Town. —
Voted, That the sum of Seventy five thousand Dollars be raised
by a tax to be assessed on the Polls and Estates of the Inhabi-
tants of this Town to defray the expences of the current year. —
Voted — That the Committee of Finance, consisting of the
Selectmen, Overseers of the Poor, and Board of Health, be
instructed to cause such parts of their reports and of that of the
Auditors of Accounts to be published, as they may judge will give
information to the Inhabitants on their money concerns.
The Committee on the subject of Forestalling the Market made
a lengthy Report, which being read — it was voted, That the
consideration of the Report be referred to the adjournment of
this Meeting, & that the same be printed for the information of
the Inhabitants.
Voted, That the sum of two hundred Dollars be appropriated
towards maintaining a School for African children, under the
direction of the School Committee.
Voted, That the sum of Seven hundred & fifty Dollars be
allowed & paid unto Hon1. Thomas DawesEsq., for his Salary as
Judge of the Municipal Court for the ensuing year.
Voted, That the sum of One Thousand Dollars be allowed and
paid unto Thomas Clark for his Salary as Town Clerk the present
year.
Voted, That the sum of Eight hundred & sixteen dollars be
allowed and paid unto each of the three Assessors for [53O]
their Services in that office the year ensuing.
Voted, That the subject of the compensation to be allowed the
Town Treasurer & Collector for the present, year, be referred to
the Committee of Finance, to report at the adjournment.
Adjourned to Thursday the 3d day of June next, 10 O'Clock
A M.—
Thursday June 3d.
Met according to adjournment.
The Moderator being absent,
Ebenezer Oliver Esq.
was chosen Moderator Pro tern.
338 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Adjourned to Wednesday next the 9th. day of June instant 10
O'Clock A M.
Met according to adjournment.
The Report of the Committee on the subject of Forestalling
the Market was taken up, considered, and accepted.
Voted That it be recommended to the citizens generally to com-
plain to the law officers of the Commonwealth, to the Grand
Jury & to the. Justices of the Peace, of all instances of fore-
stalling, regrating, engrossing and of all other fraudulent
practices, which may come to their knowledge, and to furnish
the necessary evidence of the same, that measures may there-
upon be immediately taken to bring the offenders to punish-
ment. —
Voted, That there be annually chosen by the Town, or otherwise
appointed in such way as the Town shall direct, twelve substan-
tial Citizens, who shall be called Inspectors of the Market, and
whose special duty it shall be, to enquire after & cause to be
prosecuted according to Law, all forestallers, regraters, engrossers
& fraudulent dealers in the Market, either by false weights &
measures or any other way.
[531.] Voted, That the license of any person to sell in the
Market, who shall be duly convicted of any of the Offences
aforesaid, shall be immediately taken away, and that he shall not
be permitted to hire or use a stall in the Market, or to expose
articles for Sale there, for a term not less than one year from
and after conviction, and that this regulation be enforced by a
by law of the Town. —
Voted, That that part of the ancient market which is called Dock
Square, be appropriated to dealers from the Country, and that
no inhabitant of the Town, or of any neighboring town, not
offering for sale the produce of his own farm, shall be permitted
to occupy the same to the exclusion of the bona fide Country-
dealer, and that this regulation be enforced by a Bye Law of the
Town.—
Voted, That the approbation of the Selectmen be withholden
from any persons, the owners or occupants of any house, store or
cellar applying for a licence as a tavener, victualler or retailer,
who shall be known to aid and encourage in the commission of
any of the offences against the Market, which are herein before
described. —
The Town then passed the following By Laws, & ordered the
Town Clerk to present the same to the Court of Sessions for con-
firmation.— viz1.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1813. 339
It is hereby ordered, that no person who shall at any time here-
after be convicted of either of the offences of forestalling, regrat-
ing, engrossing, or of any species of fraudulent dealing in the
Market, shall be permitted to use or hire a stall or have or occupy
any stand in either of the public markets of the Town, or in any
street leading thereto, for the purpose of offering for sale any
article of Provisions usually sold in Market, for the term of one
year from and after such conviction : and in case any person
shall after [532] such conviction and within the said term of
time, presume to use or occupy any stall or stand in either of the
said Markets, or in any of the streets leading thereto, for the
purpose aforesaid, he shall for every such offence forfeit a sum
not exceeding Five Dollars nor less than two dollars, the one
moiety thereof for the use of the complainant, and the other
moiety thereof for the use of the Town.
It is hereby ordered that no person not offering for Sale the pro-
duce of his own farm, shall be permitted to occupy that part of
the ancient market which is called Dock square — And if any
such person shall presume to occupy with his Cart, team, or in
any other way the said Dock square after being ordered there-
from by the Clerk of the Market, he shall forfeit a sum not ex-
ceeding Five Dollars nor less than two Dollars for every hour, in
which he shall continue to offend in this respect, the one moiety
thereof to the use of the Complainant, and the other moiety
thereof to the use of the Town. —
Major Benjamin Russell
Col°. Thomas Badger and
Mr. Joseph Callender, were appointed a
Committee to select twelve persons (one from each ward) as
Inspectors of the Market, and report them at the adjournment.
Adjourned to Friday next 10 o'Clock AM. —
N. B. The By Laws and foregoing Votes to be printed in
News papers after [being] confirmed by the Court of Sessions. —
[533.] Met according to adjournment.
The report of the Committee of Finance was read and con-
sidered — and it was voted. That the Senators of the County
of Suffolk, and the Representatives of this Town, be requested to
apply to the General Court, for an Act to be passed Authorizing
the "Selectmen, Overseers of the Poor and Board of Health"
Annually to appoint the Treasurer & Collector (or Collectors,)
of taxes for the Town of Boston. —
The Committee appointed at the last Meeting to select one
person from each Ward as Inspectors of the Market, reported the
following list which was accepted by the Town - - - - viz1.
CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Mr. Gidney King for
" John D. Howard j1. -
" Turell Tuttle - - -
" Samuel Hichborn
" Zachariah Hicks - -
Capn. Jonathan Whitney -
Mr. John P. Thorndike -
" George Palmer - -
Capn. James B Marston
Mr. Joseph Allen - - -
' ' Edward Gray - - -
" William Brown Junr.
Ward No. 1.—
' « 2
* u 3
» u 4
' " 5
' " 6
' " 7
' " 8
' " 9
' " 10
' " 11
" 12
Voted, That all the unfinished business contained in the Report
of the Committee of Finance be referred to the next Town
Meeting
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[534.] At a legal Meeting of the inhabitants of the Town
of Boston qualified as the Law directs assembled at Faneuil Hall
on Friday llth. day of June A D 1813 10 O'Clock A. M.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
Benjamin Weld Esq.
was chosen Moderator.
This Meeting was called in consequence of a Petition from Isaac
P. Davis and others, now pending before the Legislature, " that
they may be incorporated for the purpose of building a Mill dam
and turnpike road from Beacon street to Roxbury, and erecting
other Mill improvements "
The petition having been read and considered — it was moved
& Voted, to refer the same to a Committee consisting of the
Board of Selectmen & one Gentleman from each Ward of the
Town, to take the subject into consideration, and Report at a
future Meeting, what measures it will be proper for the Town
to adopt to secure their interest in the premises. —
The following Gentlemen were nominated & chosen for the
Wards — viz* —
Coln. Thomas Badger for Ward No. 1.
Redford Webster Esq. ... 2
Dea — Rainsford 3
Josiah Marshall 4
Lynde Walter -- 5
Thos. W. Sumner 6
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1813. 341
Benjamin Austin Esq. - - - - 7
Sam1. M. Thayer Esq. - ... 8
Isaac Winslow 9
Sam1. Cobb Esq. 10
Col". Dan1. Messenger - - - - 11
Dea Faxon 12
Adjourned to Monday the 12th day of July next 10 oClock
AM.
[535.] At a Convention consisting of the Selectmen, Over-
seers of the Poor & Board of Health, assembled at Faneuil Hall
in Boston by virtue of the following Act of this Commonwealth
intitled "An Act providing for the appointment of a Town
Treasurer & Collectors of Taxes in the Town of Boston — as fol-
lows — viz4.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
In the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred &
thirteen. —
An Act providing for the appointment of a Town Treasurer,
and Collectors of Taxes in the Town of Boston.
Secn. 1 . Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives
in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same.
That from and after the passing of this Act, the Selectmen the
Overseers of the Poor, and the Board of Health of the Town of
Boston, shall annually in the Months of June or July, meet in
Convention in the Town of Boston, and appoint some suitable
person or persons as Collectors of Taxes in said Town, who when
appointed1 as aforesaid, shall have like powers, and be subject to
like duties, in the discharge and execution of their said several
offices as other Town Treasurers and Collectors of Taxes have,
and are subject to in this Commonwealth ; and the said Town
Treasurer & Collectors so as aforesaid appointed, shall continue
in office for one year and untill others are appointed in manner
aforesaid and qualified to execute their said offices, and a record
of the appointment as aforesaid of said Town Treasurer and Col-
lectors shall be made by the Town Clerk of the Town of Boston,
in the records of said town kept by him, and the said Town
Treasurer, and Collectors to be appointed as aforesaid shall be
sworn to the faithful discharge of their said several trusts, and
give such [536] bonds to the said town of Boston conditioned
for the faithful execution of the duties of their said offices as the
Selectmen, Overseers of the Poor, and Board of Health met in
Convention as aforesaid shall direct previous to their entering on
the duties of their said several offices aforesaid. —
Provided however, the said Selectmen, Overseers of the Poor,
and the said Board of Health shall never reappoint any person to
said office of Town Treasurer or Collector of Taxes as aforesaid
342 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
untill such persons shall have faithfully & fully completed the
execution of his duty in his said Office to which he was appointed
the year preceeding, and a full and complete settlement of the
taxes by him to have been received or collected according to Law,
shall have been made or [he] shall have been excused therefrom by
a vote of the said Town of Boston. And whenever by Death, resig-
nation or otherwise the said office of Town Treasurer or Collector
shall be vacant, the aforesaid Selectmen, Overseers of the Poor
and Board of Health shall be as aforesaid authorized to fill such
vacancy by a new appointment in manner aforesaid. And all
Laws heretofore made respecting either of the aforesaid offices of
Town Treasurer & Collector of Taxes in the Town of Boston,
that are inconsistant with the provision of this Act, be, and the
same are hereby repealed, from and after the fourth day of July
next. — In the House of Representatives — June 16. 1813.
This Bill having had three several readings passed to be
enacted. — Timothy Bigelow — Speaker
In Senate —
This Bill having had
two several readings passed to be enacted. —
John Phillips — President
June 16th. 1813. Approved,
Caleb Strong —
Secretarys Office )
June 22d. 1813 j a True Copy
Attest. Alden Bradford
Secy. of Commonwealth
On the 28th. day of June AD 1813
[537.] Present a majority of each Board
Charles Bulfinch Esq. Chairman.
The Law authorizing the meeting of this Convention being
read — it was.
Voted, That this Convention will appoint the same person Col-
lector of Taxes, that they shall appoint Town Treasurer, and that
they will appoint but one Collector.
Voted, That Wednesday next 5 O'Clock P.M. be assigned for
the choice of the Treasurer & Collector.
Voted, That Mess Bulfinch, Whitman, Weld & Mackay be a
Committee, to consider the subject of collecting Taxes generally,
and examine the laws relative thereto, to determine which of
them remain in force ; and what sum the Treasurer & Collector
ought to receive for his services. —
Adjourned to Wednesday next 5 O'Clock PM.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1813. 343
Wednesday 30 June 1813 5 O'Clock PM
The Convention met according to Adjournment
Present a Majority of each Board.
Agreeable to assignment, the Convention proceeded to the
choice of a Town Treasurer for the year ensuing — upon sorting
& counting the votes it appeared that Mr. Andrew Sigourney had
a majority and was declared to be elected. —
The Votes for a Collector of taxes for the year ensuing being
brought in sorted and counted it appeared that Mr. Andrew
Sigourney had a majority and was declared to be elected.
The Committee appointed by this Convention to examine the
laws relative to the collection of taxes in the Town of Boston,
and to consider which of them are now in force — and for other
purposes — offer the [538] following Report.
That they have examined the laws which have been enacted
from time to time by the Legislature for the collection of taxes
in the Town of Boston, and are of opinion that the law passed
for this purpose in March 1808, is in full force, and gives
sufficient power to the Treasurer & Collector to ensure a prompt
collection of the Taxes, in addition to the general laws of the
Commonwealth on this subject. — and that all other special laws
relative thereto are repealed by the law under which this Con-
vention is assembled.
Your Committee report as their opinion that the Treasurer
should give a Bond for the sum of twenty thousand Dollars, &
the Collector of taxes in the same sum conditioned for their
faithful performance of the duties of their office, with such
sureties as shall be approved by this Convention
They also propose that it be recommended to the Town as the
opinion of this Convention that the sum of twenty five hundred
dollars be allowed to the Treasurer and Collector in full compen-
sation for their services for one year ensuing & for such Clerks
and deputies as they may find it necessary to employ.
The foregoing Report was read considered and accepted by the
Convention. —
Messrs. Bulfinch, Whitman & Mackay were appointed a Com-
mittee to lay before the Town the opinion of this Convention that
the sum of $2500 Per annum be allowed to the Treasurer and
Collector in full for their services. — The same Committee to pre-
pare the form of a Bond to be given by the Treasurer &
Collector.
Adjourned to Friday next 2d July 1813 5 O'Clock PM.
344 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
[539.] The Convention met according to adjournment.
Present a Majority of each Board. —
Mr. A Sigourney appeared and declared his acceptance of the
Office of Town Treasurer, as also of Collector of taxes for the
ensuing year — and proposed Samuel Smith Esq. and George
Blanchard Esq. as his bondsmen.
Messrs. Weld, Austin, Perkins, Eliot, Whitman and James
Loring, were appointed a Committee to consider the responsibility
of the Gentlemen offered by Mr. Sigourney as his bondsmen &
report.
The Committee unanimously reported, That the Bondsmen
offered by Mr. Sigourney who has been chosen Treasurer and
Collector, were in their opinion ample and sufficient. —
Ordered, That Mr. Joseph Foster, Bryant P Tilden, and
Samuel Dorr Esqs. be a ', Committee from this Convention to
complete on their part, and in behalf of this Convention any
further service, in transfering the Books, records and papers
from the late Treasurer to the new Treasurer &c — which may be
necessary to complete their duty under the Act entitled an "An
Act providing for the appointment of a Town Treasurer and
Collectors of taxes in the Town of Boston "
The Oaths of Office were administered to Mr. Andrew Sig-
ourney, chosen Treasurer and Collector by Benjamin Whitman
Esq. — a Justice of the Peace. —
The following Vote passed the Convention .... viz*.
Whereas the official duties of the Town Treasurer under the
former establishment will cease on the 4th of July and it will be
necessary for closing the Accounts of the Treasurer & Collector
& his deputies to employ the time of William Smith Esq. it is
Voted, That it be recommended by this Convention that the
Town should allow to Will1". Smith Esq. the sum of five hundred
Dollars in addition to the Salary for that portion of the year
which has elapsed since his choice by the Town in March last.
Then the Convention was Dissolved. —
[54O.] At a Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 5th
day of July, AD, 1813, 9 OClock AM
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1813. 345
Thomas Clark
was chosen Moderator —
The Committee appointed the last year to make choice of a
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the anniversary of Indepen-
dence Reported — That they had chosen Edward S*. Loe Liver-
more Esq. who has accepted the appointment
Adjourned to meet at the Old South Church 12 O'Clock.
Met at the Old South Church — where
AN ORATION.
Was delivered by Edward -S1. Loe Livermore Esq. to commemo-
rate the Independence of the United States of America.
Voted, That the Selectmen be, and hereby are appointed a Com-
mittee to wait on the Hon1. Edward S1. Loe Livermore Esq. in
the name of the Town, and thank him for the elegant & spirited
Oration, this day delivered by him at the request of the Town,
upon the anniversary of American Independence, in which were
considered the feelings, manners and principles which produced
the great national event ; and to request of him a copy for the
press.
Voted, That the Gentlemen Selectmen be, & hereby are ap-
pointed a Committee, to apply to some able and learned
Gentleman to deliver an Oration on the 4-th. day of July 1814
— That day being the Anniversary of the [541] Independ-
ence of the United States of America; wherein the Orator
is to consider, the feelings, manners & principles which led
to this great National event ; as well as the important & happy
effects, whether general or domestic, which have already, or will
forever flow from that auspicious P^poch.
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
At a legal Meeting of the Inhabitants of the Town of Boston
held by adjournment from the 11th. day of June last past, assem-
bled at Faneuil Hall on Monday the 12th day of July A.D. 1813
10 O'Clock AM.
Jonathan Hunnewell Esq.
was chosen Moderator pro tern.
The Committee appointed to consider the application of Isaac
P. Davis & others for a Mill dam and Turnpike road from the
bottom of Beacon Street to Roxbury, and for erecting other Mill
346 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
improvements " Report, that they have attended to the business
assigned them and have examined the places of the proposed
undertaking : they find the subject will require further time to
enable the Committee to give it the attention which it deserves ;
they therefore propose that they have liberty to make their final
report at a future meeting to be called for that purpose. And
that the Selectmen be desired to call such meeting when they
shall find the Committee ready to report. P order
Boston July 12th. 1813. Charles Bulfinch, Chairman
The foregoing Report was read and accepted by the Town.
[542.] The Committee of Finance to whom was referred
the consideration of the salaries to be paid to the Treasurer and
Collector & his deputies, report as their opinion — That there be
allowed to those officers for the four Months, commencing in
March last & ending July 4th. at the same rate to each, as was
voted to them by the Town last year viz.
To the Town Treasurer & Collector 1500 P Ann. is 500
To each Deputy Collector - - - 300 D° - - 100
Treasurers Clerk 600 D° - - 200
P order
Boston July 2d. 1813. Charles Bulfinch Chairman
The foregoing Report being read a motion was made that the
same be accepted by the Town, which being put passed in the
affirmative
The following proceedings of the Convention was laid before
the Town — viz*.
At a meeting of the Convention composed of the Selectmen,
Overseers of the Poor & Board of Health, on Wednesday June
30th. 1813 — Voted, That it be recommended to the Town, as the
opinion of this Convention, that the sum of twenty five hundred
Dollars be allowed to the Treasurer & Collector in full compen-
sation for their services for one year ensuing, & for such Clerks
and deputies as they may find it necessary to employ. —
A true Copy from the proceedings of the Convention
Attest. Tho. Clark. Town Clerk.
Voted, That the sum of twenty five hundred dollars be allowed &
paid unto the Treasurer & Collector for the year ensuing, agree-
able to the foregoing recommendation.
Voted, That Joseph Foster, Bryant P. Tilden & Samuel Dorr
Esq. be and hereby are appointed a Committee to [543] audit
the Accounts of the late Town Treasurer, to receive from him the
Books, records & papers belonging to the Treasury department,
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1813. 347
& those of the Collector of taxes, & to transfer the same to the
new Treasurer.
Edward Tuckerman William Brown
Joshua Davis William Hammatt
Peter O Thacher & Thomas Dawes Esquires,
were chosen Trustees of the land on Boston Neck. —
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
At a legal Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of
the Town of Boston, assembled in Faneuil Hall on Wednesday
the 20th. day of October A.D. 1813 — 10 O'Clock AM.
Warrant for calling the Meeting — read.
Hon1. Thomas Dawes Esq.
chosen Moderator.
The Committee appointed on the Petition of Isaac P. Davis &
others Reported,
That they have maturely considered the subject committed to
them, have viewed plans of the dams and basins proposed to be
connected with this Town, and the other extensive improve-
ments projected by the petitioners. — They have principally con-
fined themselves to the consideration of that part of the plan,
which immediately relates to the interest of the Town's land, and
the private abutters. The Committee publicly invited all per-
sons to appear and state their objections to the proposed project.
A memorial was received from a [544] number, but the Com-
mittee are happy to state, that few material objections have been
made, and that they can be in a great measure obviated by suit-
able provisions to be inserted in the grant from the Town, and in
the act of incorporation. —
The Committee have considered, that if, to the commercial
advantages of this Town, permanent establishments for manu-
factures of various useful kinds could be added, the interest of
the Town would be greatly promoted ; large amounts of capital,
which are forcing their way in distant & inconvenient situations,
would be retained among us ; all classes of our citizens would
find new sources of employment ; and an extensive tract of land,
the property of the Town, would be rendered valuable, and in a
few years be covered with the habitations of useful and industri-
ous citizens, adding strength to the Town, and a permanent
accumulation of its resources. The design of the petitioners
appears to embrace these desirable objects in a more extensive
degree, than any which has hitherto been offered for public con-
sideration ; and should the plan be adapted in its full extent, by
which it is contemplated to form a communication, by means of
348 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
the Middlesex canal, of Charlestown, Cambridge, Watertown,
Brighton, 13 rook line and Roxbury, with the great basin west of
the neck, a field for improvement & enterprize would be exhibited
on all the shores opposite to the western & southerly sides of the
T1.,™
Town.
The Committee therefore propose, that the Town should express
their approbation of the plan of the petitioners, on the following
condilions. —
That the Town will cede or grant to the corporation when
organized, the land and flatts lying about the shores of the bay
west of Boston neck, as they are limited and circumscribed by
streets laid down on a plan herewith [545] presented, and
which are described as follows.
Beginning at a point 450 feet west of Beacon street, thence
running Southerly to a point in the direction of the middle line
of South Bridge street, and 550 feet distant from the west side of
Orange street, thence Southwesterly to the Westerly line of Suf-
folk street, as laid down in the plan of Town lands, being 350
feet from Washington street, thence Westerly at a right angle
on Dedham street 350 feet, thence Southerly at a right angle on
Middlesex street 500 feet, thence Westerly at a right angle
on Brookline street 350 feet, thence Southerly at a right angle on
Worcester street 900 feet, thence Westerly at a right angle
on Concord street 350 feet, thence again Southerly at a right
angle on Hampshire street 1000 feet, and lastly at a right angle
westerly on Northampton street about 1000 feet to the boundary
line between the Towns of Boston and Roxbury. The Town and
individual proprietors to retain all the land and flats within said
streets.
This Grant be upon the following conditions.
1st. That said corporation shall, within five years from the first
day of January 1815, cause to be erected, in a direction pre-
scribed by the legislature, and not further North or East than
South Boston bridge, a firm solid Dam from Boston to South
Boston, faced with stone on the Northeasterly side at the least,
well calculated to endure, and effectually to keep out the tide
waters from the eastern basin, with gates, sluiceways &c proper
to let the water out of said basin.
2d. That said Corporation shall, within the said time, cause to
be erected from the end of Beacon street, to some point directed
by the General Court, a firm & solid Dam, well calculated to
endure, and effectually to retain the tide waters within the basin
formed thereby ; with gates, sluiceways, &c, proper to admit the
tide waters and to retain the same; such Dam, or such part
thereof as shall be necessary [546] for a Street to Roxbury or
Brookline, to be at least forty two feet wide at the top, and of an
height sufficient for a good and permanent road thereon, and
faced on both sides with substantial Stone walls, except in those
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1813. 349
places reserved for Gates and sluices. Which road over said
Dam, shall within the same time, be established and finished, in
a manner to be provided for by the act of incorporation.
3d. — That the said Corporation, or other persons having a right
from said Corporation, shall within five years from 1st. January
1815, erect and employ Mills, with machinery of sufficient power
to turn fourteen pair of common sized Mill stones, upon sluice-
ways leading across Washington street ; and in case said Cor-
poration shall fail to perform either of the above conditions
within the time aforesaid, then the grant from the Town of Bos-
ton shall be wholly void, and the land and flats shall revert to
the Town. —
4th. And if at any time after the 1st January 1820, either from
the insufficiency of the Dams, want of water, or other cause,
there shall fail, for one year, to be kept employed a power suffi-
cient to turn fourteen pair of Mill stones as aforesaid, then all
said land and flats, shall revert to the Town — But should pre-
vious to such failure, any of the lands or flats hereby granted
under the aforegoing conditions have been sold by said Corpora-
tion, conditioned to erect Mills with their necessary buildings
and establishments ; then, in order to do ample justice to the
parties who may be injured by the non-fulfilment of the agree-
ment on the part of the Corporation, such lands shall be appraised
by Commissioners to be appointed for that purpose, on the joint
agreement of the Town and the parties, to appraise the value of
said lands exclusive of any buildings, and their award shall be
binding on such individuals and on the Town. —
5th. — That in selecting situations for building Mills on land
belonging to the Town the sd. Corporation shall be first [547]
restricted to the six most northerly streets, which are laid out
from east to west across the Town's land on the neck; and
shall have liberty to lay sluice ways in the middle of said
streets, free of any expence, for the land so passed through ;
provided that such sluiceways shall be substantially and well laid
with stone in every part, and of suitable depth to serve as drains
and common sewers to the adjacent lots. And the owners of such
lots shall have liberty to convey their drains into said sluices free
of expence. And all earth dug from the trenches to lay said
sluiceways, shall not be carried away, but shall be spread to form
the streets and raise the Town's lots, and all pavement taken up
for this purpose shall be relaid at the expense of the Corporation .
6th. — That all damages or injury of whatever kind which shall
arise to any individual within the Town of Boston in consequence
of this agreement between the Town & said Corporation, shall be
compensated & paid by said Corporation, in the manner to be
provided by an Act of the General Court.
7th. — And whenever the Town or other owners abutting upon
any of the streets which are designated as the boundaries of the
Towns grant, shall agree to build any of such streets, the expence
of building the same, when the Corporation shall abutt on the
other side, shall be borne, one half by said Corporation and one
350 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
half by the abutters. provided that the Town shall not be at any
charge in maintaining any such streets, untill they shall have
been completed to the approbation of the surveyors of highways. —
And it is further agreed by the Inhabitants of the Town of
Boston .
8th. — That if said Corporation should think it expedient, they
shall have liberty to cut a Canal in some convenient place
between South Boston Bridge and Gibsons wharf, in a direction,
and of dimensions, suitable to admit vessels of one hundred &
twenty tons burthen, from the east harbour into the full basin on
the west, provided that such canal shall be well faced with stone
on both sides ; and that a street shall be made on each side
thereof not less than thirty feet wide : one of which streets shall
border immediately upon the Canal, & the other shall not be
more than one hundred feet distant from the [548] other side
of said Canal. And the land through & over which said Canal
& street shall pass, shall be purchased by said Corporation, and
said Canal and streets shall be built and finished at the expence
of said Corporation ; said Canal to be furnished with suitable
gates or locks for the admission of Vessels, and also with draw
bridges of the most approved construction when it shall intersect
Front street and Orange street. Said Canal shall be toll free ; but
the maintenance of the same, for repairs, for working the gates and
raising the draws, shall be at the expence of the Corporation. —
9th. — And if said Corporation should think it expedient, they
shall have liberty to dig a Canal through the Town's land on the
Westerly side of the Neck, from the full basin to Roxbury in a
line parallel to Washington street, and at such distance therefrom,
and of such depth and width as shall be regulated and approved
by the Trustees for managing the Town's lands on the neck. And
the earth taken out to form said Canal shall be for the use of said
Corporation to build the Dam or other purposes.
And the. Committee further recommend, That agents be
appointed by the Town, to attend the sittings of the Committee
of the General Court, to whom the petition is referred ; to have
the above recited conditions inserted in the act of incorporation,
or made the subject of a special instrument of agreement, between
the petitioners and the Town, which shall be referred to and con*
firmed by the Act of the Legislature. And that such Committee
be directed to have inserted in the act of incorporation, such
terms and regulations of Subscriptions for Shares as shall secure
a right of subscription for a due proportion of such shares, to all
persons who may wish to engage in the undertaking.
By order of the Committee
Charles Bulfinch, Chairman.
The foregoing Report, was read, considered and nearly unani-
mously accepted by the Town — and Thomas Dawes, William
Sullivan, Josiah Marshall, [549] Charles Davis & William
Hammatt Esquires, were chosen agents agreeably to the recom-
mendation in the report.
BOSTON TOWN RECORDS, 1813. 351
The article in the Warrant "To consider the petition of a
number of the Inhabitants, that the Town would take measures
for establishing a work house, which may be also used as a house
of correction," was taken up & committed to,
Thomas Dawes, Bryant P. Tilden, James T. Austin, Ozias
Goodwin, Ephraim Eliot, Charles Bulfinch & Bedford Webster,
Esquires, to take the subject into consideration and report at the
adjournment.
The Petition of David Greenough was committed to the
Selectmen, to report thereon at the adjournment.
The Committee on the late Town Treasurers accounts made the
following report — which was read & accepted — viz —
Boston August 13th. 1813 -
We the majority of the Committee appointed by the Town of
Boston by a vote of said Town, of the 12th. July last to " audit
the accounts of the late Town Treasurer, to receive from him the
books, records and papers belonging to the treasury department,
and those of the Collector of Taxes, and to transfer the same to
the new Treasurer," having attended that duty, they find the
annexed accounts to be correct & form a true statement of the
affairs and official transactions of William Smith Esq. late Town
Treasurer, and the Committee have this day delivered over to
Andrew Sigourney Esq. the present Town Treasurer, all the
books, papers, securities and other property belonging to the
Town of Boston in the department of its treasury late in the
possession of Wm. Smith Esq. — The abovenamed accounts are
well & truly vouched & right cast. —
Bryant P. Tilden
Samuel Dorr
Adjourned to Wednesday 10th November next 10 OClock
AM.—
[55O.] Wednesday November the 10th.
The Town met according to adjournment.
The Committee on the Petition of David Greenough, not being
ready to report, the subject was referred to the next Town
Meeting. —
The Committee chosen by the Town to consider what measures
should be taken for establishing a work house, which may also
serve as a house of Correction, — Report the following view of
the subject. —
In the year 1 735 the General Court of the then Province, upon
application of the Town of Boston, passed an act for employing
and providing for the poor of the town of Boston ; by which act
352 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
the Town was empowered to build a workhouse, and adopt
regulations for its government. — In the year 1789 a law was
passed by the Legislature of this Commonwealth, entitled "An
act for erecting of workhouses, for the reception and employ-
ment of the idle and indigent. This law is general and empowers
every town, or any number of towns who may unite for the pur-
pose, to build workhouses, and directs the proceedings of the
overseers therein.
The laws above recited empower towns to erect and endow
workhouse, but do not compel them so to do. But we find that
in 1788, an act was passed " for suppressing and punishing
Rogues, vagabonds common beggars, and other idle, disorderly
and lewd persons " by which act it is ordered, that there shall be
erected or provided by the Court of Sessions in every County, a
fit and convenient house of correction, for the keeping and cor-
recting and setting to work of Rogues, Vagabands &c. the
provisions of this law are effectual, and at the same time founded
on the most humane principles, calculated for the suppression of
vice and for the reformation of the offenders, subject to its
regulations. — The practice under these laws has been as fol-
lows. — Immediately after the Town of Boston had been em-
powered in 1735 to build a workhouse, [551] measures were
taken for that purpose ; and by means of subscriptions in aid of
the Town's funds, the building was erected ; and it was used
principally under the orders of the Overseers of the poor; no
house of correction was ever built in this county as directed by
the law of 1 788 ; but a part of the workhouse was appropriated
for a Bridewell ; under the control of the Justices, untill the erec-
tion of the new Almshouse, when the land and buildings of the
old Almshouse and workhouse were sold.
The agents appointed by the Town to superintend the building
of an Alms house, workhouse and hospital, proceeded to erect one
building for an Alms house, intending to appropriate such parts
thereof as could be spared, for the other objects ; but con-
templating that separate buildings should be devoted to those
purposes, whenever the Town should be able to bear the
expense. — The inconveniences of this arrangement were ex-
perienced within one year after the erection of the Alms house.
A large Committee raised in 1802, reported to the Town, that no
division of the Alms house could be set apart for a house of cor-
rection, without greatly incommoding the poor, and conclude their
report by saying " that they would propose that measures should
be taken immediately for the erection of a separate building, were
they not sensible of the burthen the Town laboured under to dis-
charge the balance due upon the almshouse. — The Overseers of
the poor also, in a memorial addressed to the Town in May 1812,
represented the inconveniences under which they laboured, from
the necessity of appropriating rooms for a work house and bride-
well; and stated, "that they had endeavoured as much as
possible to accommodate the various descriptions of persons,
under all the disadvantages to which the institution must be
BOSTON TOWN RECOEDS, 1813. 353
subject ; under the full hope, that the finances of the Town would
soon enable it to finish the establishment according to the original
plan."
With respect to the actual state of the Almshouse, your Com-
mittee find, that there are at present in that house 403 persons of
which 283 are old people, invalids, children &c — 50 sick persons
in the hospital rooms, 20 insane persons, affected in various
[552] degrees, some go at large, others are in close confine-
ment, 50 persons employed at work, some well disposed & able
of body, but above ten of them are subjects for a bridewell or
house of correction & are locked up.
The Committee think that every human mind will be convinced
of the utter impossibility of adding to this catalogue of wretched-
ness, any of those debauched and profligate persons who are fit
subjects for a house of correction. —
As the law directs that the County Jail shall be used by the
Justices for a house of Correction untill a suitable one shall be
provided ; your Committee have also enquired into the present
state of the Jail. — They find that it now contains fifty-seven
persons, and this number is smaller than has been usual, owing
to the increased powers of the Municipal Court ; which has given
greater dispatch to the criminal business, by the frequent Ses-
sions of that Court and by its power of sending the convicts to
the State Prison. —Of the persons now in Jail 25 are confined
for assaults and batteries & petty offences, who are properly sub-
jects for a house of correction : it may be received as a fact,
that at least 12 persons of this description are permanent
tenants of the Jail ; they are assembled together in rooms, not
less than 6 in any room ; are absolutely idle and unemployed ;
and instead of their confinement effecting the purposes of refor-
mation, they are vitiating and debasing each other, by their
language and example. These objects are at a constant expence
to the public of two dollars Per week each, whereas, if they were
in a building properly constructed for seclusion, kept upon spare
diet, and with work suited to their capacities, they would cer-
tainly support themselves ; & might be in a measure reformed
and made acquainted with some reputable means of obtaining a
livelihood.
Your Committee think it would be a reflection on this intelligent
community to enlarge further, or comment upon this statement. —
If in the year 1735 the town required a house of this description,
how much more necessary is it now? If in 1802 it was consid-
ered inconvenient to the virtuous poor to mix the vicious & profli-
gate with them, how much more so now, when the pressure of
the times drives many persons into that house, who a few years
since felt no apprehension of being under the necessity of asking
public charity.
Having considered the proposed establishment necessary, The
Committee have made such estimates as the time would permit,
[553] and are of opinion that a building to answer the present
purposes of the Town, might be erected on the land west of the
354 CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Almshouse, for 20,000 Dollars; which sum could be borrowed of
individuals, to be repaid in instalments in 5 years, without being
an oppressive burthen upon the Citizens. —
They therefore propose that the Town should pass the follow-
ing votes. — That the Overseers of the Poor be appointed Agents
for building a work house, part of which may be used for a house
of correction, on the land west of the present Almshouse; to
commence the same as soon as the season will permit.
That in constructing said building, they be directed to build
such part thereof as shall appear to them necessary in the present
state of the Town, and upon a plan capable of enlargement in
future. —
That the said Overseers be empowered to borrow of individuals
or of public institutions the sum of twenty five thousand Dollars
for the purpose of erecting & furnishing the proposed building,
the interest of which sum shall be paid annually by the Town
Treasurer, and the principal to be paid in annual instalments of
5000 dollars each : for the payment of which, that amount shall
be annually raised by taxes, & appropriated for that purpose.
Charles Bulfinch.
The foregoing Report was read, considered and unanimously
accepted by the Town. —
attest Tho' Clark, Town Clerk
Voted, That the thanks of the Town be given to the Moderator
for his services at this Meeting.
Then the Meeting was Dissolved.
[END OF BOOK NINE.]
LETTER FROM S. PARKMAN BLAKE TO CITY CLERK
S. F. McCLEARY (see p. 194).
Cedar Square
Boston Highlands.
S. F. McCleary Esq.
City Clerk,
My dear sir.
As a good deal of public interest is taken in the valuable por-
traits in Faneuil Hall and particularly in the most valuable —
that of Washington by Stuart, I find in the Town Records on
March 10- 1806 that my Grandfather Samuel Parkman offered to
give to the Town a copy of the painting by Stuart to be placed in
Fanueil Hall which offer was accepted.
As I am the oldest member of the Parkman family, I wish to
have justice done to his memory and to State (as there does not
appear to be any other record on the Town books) that my
Grandfather did not give the copy proposed, but gave the original
by Stuart, which is the same which is now in Faneuil Hall. This
fact has always been known in the family and to confirm the
same I herewith give a copy of a letter received from Miss Jane
Stuart now living in Newport R. I. the Daughter of Gilbert
Stuart (herself an Artist) She says dated July 22d 1874 address*1
to Revd John Parkman :
" The Picture of Washington now in Faneuil Hall was painted
by my Father Gilbert Stuart and presented to the Town of Boston
by Samuel Parkman. This circumstance is too much impressed
on my mind to admit of any doubt whatever. Also that it was
copied from the original head now in the Athenaeum. Now, my
dear sir, if you will take the trouble to read the July number of
" Scribner's Monthly " you will find an authentic history of the
Washington Portraits, written by myself. You will there see
that my Father never finished but two Heads of the great Patriot.
Permit me to add that my Father never put his name to any
Picture, he ever painted in his life."
very respectfully,
Yr ob* sl,
1877 S Parkman Blake.
INDEX.
INDEX.
Abutters, 73, 131, 223.
Accounts, agents for erecting new alms-
house, 111, 112.
Board of Health, to audit, 58,
63, 83, 93, 100, 121, 143, 163,178,
193, 198, 210, 218, 234, 248, 253,
263, 282, 300, 306, 313, 336.
Overseers of the Poor, to audit,
11, 32, 63, 83, 100, 121, 143, 163,
178, 193, 198, 210, 218, 234, 248,
253, 263, 286, 306, 331.
selectmen, to audit, 11, 32, 63,
83, 100, 121,143, 163, 178.
town treasurer, 25, 41, 46, 47, 70,
91, 10H, 149,
168, 186, 199,
200, 201, 218,
234, 253, 263,
2«t6, 300, 312,
326, 331, 346.
to audit, 11,24,
32, 46, 63, 70,
83, 100, 121,
128, 134, 143,
163, 178, 187,
193, 210, 248,
282, 300, 312,
326, 331, 335,
346.
Act, for appointment of Town Treasurer
and Collector, 339, 341.
Aqueduct Corporation, 55.
Board of Health, 56.
embargo, 237, 241, 242, 244, 245.
for enforcing embargo, 242.
to erect work-house, 352.
for regulating the choice and ser-
vices of petit jurors, 5.
of General Court, 211, 230, 250, 350.
prisoners with contagious disease,
removal of, 56.
relative to jurors, 5, 233.
to incorporate mill proprietors, 174.
prevent spread of contagious dis-
eases, 34, 36.
punish and suppress rogues, vaga-
bonds, 352.
secure the town against fire, 27.
Adams, Abraham, 11, 63.
John, 7, 231,283.
John Q., 124, 135, 148, 211, 218, 222,
231, 250, 251, 301.
Samuel, 7, 19, 85.
Setn, 30.
Advocate, Town, 88, 98, 108, 120, 131, 142,
152, 162, 169, 176, 187 192, 256, 257, 281,
295
African Children, School for, 337.
Agents, to act with Ward Boylston, 269.
almshouse, for erecting new, 352.
accounts of, 111, 112.
salary of, 112.
to answer indictment against
town, 282.
to attend meetings of General
Court, 350.
Agents, Faneuil Hall repairs, allowance
to, 220.
for land on Orange street, 166.
to nominate appraisers, 258.
relative to Old Town House, 136,
249.
to defend town, 206, 215.
Alarm posts, 324.
Allen (Alline), 205, 239.
Edward, 162, 177, 193, 210,
228, 247, 262.
Joseph, 172, 340.
William, 96, 192, 281, 292,
293, 298, 310.
Alliance with France, 319.
Almshouse, 3, 25, 33, 37, 64, 112, 113, 114,
129, 149, 249, 271, 352, 353.
agents, to superintend build-
ing of, 352.
new, appropriation for, 46,
48, 49.
debts to, 271.
new, cost of, 65, 91, 106, 112,
326, 352.
new, to raise money for, 66.
number of persons'in, 353.
selling of old, 352.
American commerce, 317.
Ames, Fisher, 86.
Amherst, 172.
Amory, Jonathan, 284.
Rufus G., 22, 31, 40, 61, 81, 85, 118,
141,161, 176,194.
Thomas C., 183, 284.
Andover, 172.
Andrews, Ebenezer T., 232, 252, 266.
Edward T.,285.
James, 13.
John, 24, 34, 37, 44, 51, 128.
William, 77, 82, 100.
Ann street, 2, 3, 13, 205.
application to place posts in,
2, 3, 13.
Anniversary of Independence, 1, 28, 50,
75, 94, 110, 133, .155, 170, 190, 204, 221,
236, 255, 275, 296, 320, 321, 345.
Appropriations of money, 25, 46, 168, 186,
20i, 219, 234, 235, 273, 2«7, 295, 313, 336.
Apthorp, John T., 197, 208, 214, 232, 252.
Aqueduct Corporation, 2, 3, 4, 41, 45, 52.
restrictions on, 55.
Arch street, 90.
Arming of inhabitants, 324.
Army, standing, to enforce arbitrary
laws, 245.
Artillery company, 53, 73, 276, 278.
Assay masters, choice of, 12, 33, 62, 83,
100, 120, 142, 162, 177, 192, 209, 229, 248,
282,300,331.
Assessors, abatement of taxes, 10, 32, 81,
98, 106, 135, 273.
assistant, 153, 154, 282.
assistants, choice of, 125.
choice of, 10, 32, 35, 37, 59, 61,
93, 99, 126.
committee to advise, 326.
(359)
360
CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Assessors, consist of three persons, 122.
manner of choosing, 122.
distribute printed tax bills,
122,291,293.
make returns once a year, 123.
powers of, 314.
request further compensa-
tion^, 178.
salary, 25, 26, 46, 48, 71, 73, 93,
107, 108, 132, 170, 179, 187, 203,
220, 235, 275, 315, 337.
statement of taxes, 61.
to furnish selectmen with list
of all rateable polls, 23, 122,
250, 265, 284, 311, 334.
A ssize of bread, 17, 19.
Athenanim, 355.
Atkins, S., 107.
Attorney, 95, 116.
Attorney-General, 307.
Auction of land on Beacon Hill, 293.
near South Bridge, 293.
public, 326.
Auctions, petition for out-door, 24, 26.
Auditors, examine books of Town Treas-
urer, 134. 263, 268, 314, 337.
report of, 187.
Austin, 344.
Benjamin, 14, 18, 20, 23, 29, 35, 38,
39, 60, 68, 70, 87, 102, 103, 104, 111,
117, 119, 124, 127, 138, 140, 146, 165,
178, 179, 211, 263, 270, 272, 284, 333,
341.
James T., 351.
.Tared, 301.
John L., 5.
Jonathan L., 4, 8, 29, 59, 68, 79, 98,
118, 205, 212, 231, 333.
Joseph, 280, 298, 326, 328, 329.
Richard, 248, 263, 282, 300, 331.
William, 328.
Avery, John, 7, 20, 30, 39, 51, 68, 87, 95, 102,
1-25, 136, 146, 165, 173, 181, 196.
Ayers (Ayres), Moses, 12, 33, 62, 83, 99,
120, 142, 177, 192, 209, 228.
Bacheldor (Batchelder), Josiah, 280, 284,
S10.
Bacon, Ebenezer, 172.
John, 173.
Joseph, 217, 228, 230.
Josiah, 140.
Badger, Thomas, 310, 339, 340.
Badges to be worn by chimney cleaners,
205.
Bailey (Bayley), Thomas, 11, 25, 35, 46,
62, 70, 82, 92, 99, 106, 128, 129, 150, 152.
Baker (Barker), 227, 246, 261.
Ebenezer, 30.
Balch, Nathaniel, 22.
Baldwin, Loammi, 327.
Thomas, 38, 96, 182, 265, 327.
Ballard, O., 106.
Baltimore, outrages In, 321.
resolution of condolence, 324.
Banks, Boston, 287, 306.
Massachusetts, 287, 306.
Union, 2, 3, 92, 107, 112, 130, 150,
151, 186, 201, 306.
debts to, 287, 294, 306.
Bannister, John, 299, 330.
Barber (Barbour), Thomas, 11, 36, 63, 85,
100, 120, 143, 162, 177, 193, 210, 228, 247,
248,262,281, 299,330.
Barker, Benjamin, 107, 130, 150, 201, 287.
Barnard, Tristram, 154, 178, 218, 257, 268.
Barnstable district, 172.
Barret, John, 20.
Barry, James, 11, 36, 63.
Thomas, 312, 335.
Bartlet (Bartlett). Bailey, 172.
' Roger, 12. 33, 6;t, 84,
'100, 120, 143, 162.
Bass, Henry, 140.
Battery, South, 206.
Batterymarcli street, appropriation for
•\videning, 203.
suit to recover
land in, 206.
Baxter, Daniel, 233, 284.
Bayles, J. W., 149.
Beach street, 71.
Beacon Hill, 90, 104, 106.
claim to land on, 205, 215.
committee to dispose of
land on, 293. •
Hancock estate, disposition
of, 263.
sale of land on, 289.
value of land on, 286.
Beal, William, 333.
Beggars, act for supression.and punish-
ing of, 352.
Bell, Daniel, 12, 33.
Belligerents, 243.
Bells, appropriation for 1806, 202.
1807, 219.
1808, 235.
1810, 274.
ringing, 25, 46.
in Faneuil Hall cupola, 43.
ringing of, 67, 86, 145, 164, 180, 182,
195, 197, 213.
tolling of, 7, 19, 21, 38, 40, 50, 69, 89,
102, 103, 124, 127, 135, 147, 166, 171,
205,211,230, 232, 2S9, 250, 251, 264,
265, 278, 283, 284, 327, 332.
Bemis, Josiah, 307.
Bentley (Bently), Jonathan, 177.
Joshua, 11, 30, 64, 82,
100, 120, 143, 162.
Bequest of Phillips, William, 163.
Berkshire district, 172, 173.
Berwick, 172.
Bigelow, Abraham, 328.
Timothy, 342.
Bills, counterfeit, 1<)6, 151.
Biugham, Caleb, 178, 205, 233, 265, 283, 301,
310, 327, 333.
Binney, Amos, 140, 284.
Blake, Edward, 30, 39.
George, 13, 21, 87, 102, 103, 112,
324.
Henry, 266, 281,299, 330.
James, 11, 30, 64, 82, 100, 120,143
Joseph, 68.
8. Parkman, 355.
Thomas, 31, 64.
Blanchard, Caleb, 10, 32, 59, 81, 90, 93.
George, 117, 140, 261, 266, 280,
285, 298, 312, 329, 335, 344.
John, 328.
Boardman, Darius, 140.
Thomas S.,22.
William, 8, 12,22, 126.
Board of Health, 37, 56, 58, 72, 90, 93, 101,
105, 107, 108, 109, 122,
129, 130, 132, 133, 168,
189, 219, 257, 25S, 259,
277, 282, 286, 287, 294,
295, 305, 313, 326, 337,
339, 341, 346.
accounts, to audit, 6S,
83, 100, 121, 143, 150,
163, 178, 193, 198, 210,
218, 234, 248, 253, 263,
282, 331.
appropriation for,
1804, 168.
1805, 186.
1806, 202.
1807, 219.
1808, 235.
1809, 251 .
1810, 270.
1811,294.
1812, 313.
1813, 336.
IXDEX,
361
Board of Health, committee to consider
opening Granary
Buryiug-ground, 257.
draft*. 91, 106, 128, 149,
151, 186, 200, 218, 336.
duty of, 57, 58.
exempt from jury, 236.
Boards and shingles, surveyors of,
choice of, 11, 31, 36, 64, 77, 82, 100, 120,
125, 143, 149, 16-2, 177, 193, 195, 210,
215, 228, 247, 262, 266, 281, 299, 330.
Bond of collector of taxes, 334.
town treasurer, 334.
George, 301.
Nathan, 52.
Booth, Francis, 12.
Bosson, John, 99, 101.
William, 10.
Boston, 1, 2, 6, 7, 15, 19, 20, 21, 27, 28. 37, 38,
39, 40, 42, 49, 50, 53, 54, 55, 57, 58,
66, 67, 68, 69, 72, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78,
79, 86, 87, 88, 89, 91, 93, 94, 95, 96,
101, 102, 103, 107, 110, 111, 116,
117, 122, 124, 125, 126, 127, 130,
132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138,
139, 140, 144, 145, 146, 147, 150,
155, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, 164,
165, 166, 167, 168, 170, 171, 173,
.175, 180, 181, 182, 183, 186, 188,
189, 190, 194, 195, 196, 197, 198,
202, 203, 204, 205, 207, 210, 212,
213, 214, 217, 221, 222, 223, 225,
226, 230, 232, 233, 236, 237, 238,
239, 240, 245, 249, 251, 252, 255,
256, 257, 258, 260, 264, 265, 266,
276, 27H, 279, 284, 285, 296, 297,
300, 302, 311, 312, 315, 320, 821,
326, 327, 328, 329, 332, 334, 335,
340, 344, 345, 347, 355.
Common, 41, 45, 53, 73, 76, 109, 148,
193, 194.
sea wall on, 194.
Highlands, 355.
Mill Corporation, 217, 218.
contract with
p r o p r i etors,
223, 224.
Neck, burying-ground on, 206.
candle manufactory on. 16.
land on, 16, 71, 101, 104/105,
108, 128, 134, 233.
meeting house on, 206.
rope walk on, 84.
slaughter house on, 16.
turnpike on, 156.
Better, Thomas, 14,
Bourn (Bourne), Ez. A., 301.
Judge, 112.
Mr., 48, 72.
Shearjasheb, 73, 129.
Bowdoin, James, 7, 19. 20, 21, 38, 39, 68,69,
86, 87, 89, 102, 124, 127, 145, 146, 147, 165,
172.
Bo \vker, Allen, 215, 228, 247, 262, 281, 299,
330.
Bowman, Edmund, 140.
Boyd, Ebenezer L,., 30.
Boyle, John, 310.
Boylston, Thomas, 76, 77, 269.
Ward Nicholas, 269.
Brace, David, 12.
Bradford, Alden, 327, 334, 342.
Col., 34, 78.
Gamaliel, 266, 316.
Samuel, 9, 30, 60, 80, 97, 118, 141,
161,176,191,208,227.
Sheriff, 279.
Bradlee (Bradley), David, 116, 137, 140.
JosSah, 333.
Nathaniel, 126, 149,
162, 177, 103, 210,228
247, 262, 281 , 299. 330.
Thomas, 12, 24, 32, 62,
83.
Bray, John, 11, 36, 60, as, 80, 98, 116 117,
118, 137, 141, 161, 17H, 191, 194, 208, 227,
246,261,280,298,3-29.
Brazer (Brazier), John, 117, 126, 135, 138,
140, 179, 304.
Bread, 13, 19, 42.
assize of, 17, 19.
Breen, E., 46.
Brewer, Xnthaniel, 284.
Samuel, 310.
Brewster, Oliver, 8, 29, 59, 80, 98, 118, 141,
161.
Bridge, 224.
Jeremiah, 284.
from South End to Dorchester,
13$, 158, 166. . •
not to build, 148, 149.
from South street to South '
Boston, 174.
over canal, 350.
South Boston, 199, 267, 348.
swing, 2, 3.
Brigade, Legionary, 189.
Brighton, 348.
Brimmer, Herman, 11, 25, 32,40, 47, 63, 64,
71, 82, 92.
Bristol District. 172.
Brooks, Eleazer, 172.
Peter C., 196, 212, 231, 250, 265,
283, 301.
Brookline, 348.
Brown, E., -25.
James, 330.
John, 292, 293, 298, 310.
Samuel, 2, 11, 13, 20, 21, 25, 32, 35,
47, 51, 63, 68, 70, 71, 82, 84, 87, 92,
100, 104. 106, 113, 119, 121, 127,128,
130, 143, 146, 149, 150, 152, 159, 163,
164, 167, 168, 178, 181, 186, 193,203,
210, 212, 215, 216, 220,231, 248,250,
263,26.1, 270, 272, 274, 282, 283,294,
300, 301, 313, 328, 331, 333, 337.
William, 9, 22, 24, 30. 60, 80, 97, 105,
117,118,119, 126, 127, 128, 140, 141.
147, 148, 153, 161, 165, 167, 169, 178,
180, 183, 197, 198, 218, 214, 218, 232,
233, 237, 23S, 248, 2.il , 252, 2*3, 266,
270, 272, 274, 282, 285. 286, 294, 295,
311,313, 316, &33, 340, 347.
Brush Hill Turnpike, 256, 267.
Corporation, 267.
Buckminster, Joseph S., 232, 279, 280, 299,
326.
Building of new school-house, 144.
Buildings, law regulating building of,
138, 139,
relative to wooden, 13.
Bulfinch, Charles. 59, 61, 73, 79, 87, 91, 96,
106, 109, 115,117,118. 131,141,
148, 160, 175,191,207,226.246,
258, 259, 260, 279, 296, 297, 326,
328, 329, 342,343,346,350, 351,
354.
Justice, 118, 140, 160, 190, 207, 226.
Bulls, 14, lOi), 253.
Burial places, chapel, 276, 277.
granary, 276, 277.
opening of granary, 257.
north, 276.
land adjoining north, 260.
need of enlarging north,
257.
land on nock for, 277.
on town land, 276.
south, 73.
Burley, Thomas, 328.
Burl, Edward, 11, 36, 63.
Bussey, Benjamin, 212, 232, 252.
Butterfleld, John, 125, 143, 162, 177, 193,
210,228,247,262,281.
Butts, Noah, 10, 31, 64, 82, 99.
Buxton, 173.
By-laws, 71, 72, 73, 74, 104, 331, 339.
regulating trucks, 53, 74, 144.
362
CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
By-laws, relative to market, 43, 338, 339.
repealed, 109, 253.
revision of, 100, 109, 138.
Cabbit, James, 192.
Joseph, 162.
Cabbot (Cabot), George, 68, 182, 211, 251.
James, 228.
Callander (.Callender) , John, 28, 183, 197,
214, 232, 252, Z6fi.
Joseph, 117, 332,
339.
Cambridge, 172, 348.
street, 129.
Canal, between South Boston bridge and
Gibson's wharf, 350.
proposed, expense of, 350.
Candle manufactory on the neck, 16.
Candles, 25, 46.
Cary, Jiev., 24f>.
Cedar square, 355.
Centinel, 5.
Centre street, 105.
Champney, John, 11.
Chandler, Gardner, 333.
John, 266, 285.
Channing, Francis Dana, 204, 232, 252, 266.
William E., 171, 229, 261, 280,
299 330 332
Chapman, Jonathan, 147, 160, 175, 194, 207,
227, 232, 249, 324.
Charles river, 224.
Charlestown, 348.
Chelsea, 308, 325.
proportion of county tax, 308.
Chesapeake, 222.
Children, schooling of, 295.
African, school for, 337.
Chimney sweepers, 109, 295.
Christie (Christy), Thomas, 193, 210,228,
247, 262, 281, 299, 330.
Chronicle, 5.
Churches. (See Meeting-houses.)
Circus, 278.
Claim of William Cooper's heirs, 268.
Thos. Boylston heirs, 269.
Clap, Samuel. 8, 9, 26, 29, 32, 47, 61, 71, 80,
92, 97, 107, 123, 130, 132, 134, 149, 150,
160, 167, 175, 181, 191, 196, 208, 212, 227,
246, 250.
Clark, Benjamin, 228, 248, 262, 281, 299,
330.
John, 29.
Thomas, 259,260, 275, 279, 295, 296,
297, 315, 320, 328, 329, 337, 345, 346,
354.
Clay, Joseph, 230.
Clerks of town treasurer, 275, 313.
the market. (See Market.)
Clocks, appropriation for, 25, 46.
1806, 202.
1807, 219.
1808, 235.
Clough, 107, 129.
Clouston, liouis, 4.
William, 11, 31, 64, 82, 100, 120,
1*3, 162, 177, 193, 210, 228, 247,
262, 281, 299, 330.
Coal, 25, 46.
Coasting, law against, 331.
Coates (Coats), Benjamin, 176, 191, 208,
227, 246, 261, 280, 298.
Cobb, 121.
David, 171, 196, 211, 231, 250, 264.
Samuel, 22, 40, 59, 69, 80, 89, 103, 252,
266,285,311,333,341.
Cobbet (Cobbit), James, 177, 192.
Joseph. 209, 248, 263, 281 ,
300, 331.
Codman, John, 2, 20, 21, 39, 40, 51, 52, 56,
68, 87, 102, 112, 146, 148.
Stephen, 30, 60. 80, 98, 104, 118,
141, 161, 176, 178, 179, 181, 1S2,
184, 188, 190, 191, 195, 197, 207,
Codman, Stephen, 208, 214, 227, 231, 232,
233, 236, 237, 238, 239, 240, 245,
246, 251, 259, 261, 279, 280, 282,
286, 292, 293, 294, 295, 297, 298,
300, 310, 311, 313, 329, 333, 334.
Coffin, John G., 285.
Peleg, 124.
Cogswell, John, 11, 31, 64, 82, 100, 120, 143,
162, 177, 193, 210, 228, 262, 281 , 299, 330.
Collector of taxes. (See Taxes.)
Commerce, foreign, prohibited, 241, 242.
decline of, 336.
freedom of, 316.
Commercial restrictions, 317.
rights, 317, 3.'0.
Commissioners, 2-.'3, 225, 349.
choice of, 218.
Committees, accounts, to audit, 11, 24, 32,
46,63, 70, 83,91,100,111,121,
128, 143, 149, 150, 163, 178,
187, 193, 198, 210, 234, 248,
253, 263, 272, 282, 300, 312,
331, 346.
almshouse.for building new,
33, 37, 48, 65, 91, 112, 113,
352.
aqueduct, to confer with
proprietors of, 2, 3, 4, 41,
45, 52, 55.
assessors, assistants to, 122,
125.
town treasurer,
and collector of
taxes, to con-
sider compen-
sation for, 130,
131,179.
auctions, relative to out-
door, 24, 26.
bakers, 19.
bank, new, 148, 153.
bequest of William Phillips,
163.
bread, 13.
bridges, 138, 148, 158.
burglars, measures for pro-
tection against, 17.
by-laws, 73, 74.
revision of, 100.
constables, 120,121.
correspondence, choice of,
222.
resolutions
of, 222.
court, compensation to
judge, 88.
General, 34, 35, 350.
diseases, contagious, 34, 36.
dock, relative to filling up,
51, 64.
to investigate town's
claim to, 128, 131.
yard, measures to es-
tablish, 84, 85.
Dorchester, to annex, 157.
embargo act, 237.
fire wards, compensation to,
178, 179, 216.
fish market, relative to, 24,
26.
Fort Hill, to exchange land
on, 72, 73.
Hancock, Gov., heirs of,
claim lo land on Beacon
Hill, 205, 215, 268.
health, 35, 3fi, 37, 58.
hearses at funerals, 17.
jury boxes, to regulate, 140,
235, 236.
lamps, 62, 53, 56.
land, relative to, 163.
laws, revision of, 110.
market, regulations of, 41,
43,44,332,337,338, 339.
INDEX.
363
Committees, market, selling stands at I
auction, 35, 36, 37.
Mill pond, tilling up, 159, 164,
169, 174, 216, 217, 220, 223.
neck, land on, 14, 15, 71, 104,
105, 108, 128.
negroes, increase of, 72, 73.
Old State House, disposal of,
34, 35, 51, 54, 78, 117, 136, 153,
154, 249.
orator, to provide for July
Fourth, 1, 28, 50, 75, 94, 110,
132, 155, 170, 189, 204, 221,
236, 255, 275, 296, 320, 345.
petition, artillery company,
£>-0
£|O.
Clonston, Louis, 4.
Davis, Amasa, 52,
53.
Davis, Isaac and
others, 340, 345,347.
fishermen, 34, 37, 44.
French, Abraham,
24,26
Fuller, Asa, 13, 15.
General Court, 240.
Hancock heirs, 268.
Hill, Henry, 14, 16,
17.
Hunt, Samuel, 178,
179, 184, 187.
Ivers, James, 215.
Jaquish, Aaron, '.'4,
26.
Knapp, Josiah, 71.
legislature, 243.
Odin, John, 326.
Patten, Nathaniel,
84.
Powell, William, 51,
56.
Pr.ttt, James, 101,
105.
Smith, William, 311.
Tales, James, 4, 5.
Thwing, James, 4.
town treasurer,
313.
police, by-laws for, 72.
posts in Ann street, to erect,
3 13.
report of, 16, 17, 19, 26, 44,47,
48, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 58, 64, 6.\
70, 73, 77, 85, 88, 92, 106, 108,
109, 112, 114, 122, 125, V28,
131, 144, 148, 151, 154, 15«,
158, 163, 168, 174, 179, li*4,
186, 188, 194, 215, 216, 222,
223, 255, 257, 258, 259, 269,
271, 272, 277, 286, 302, 312,
313, 316, 320, 335, 337, 338,
344, 346, 347, 351.
rope.walks at bottom ofCom-
mon.148,153,
194.
West Boston,
14, 15.
schools. (See Schools.)
streets, 105, 106, 257, 258.
Suffolk County affairs, 153,
156. 159.
town's financial affairs, 119,
122, 123, 159.
money, to place on
Interest, 3.
town, security of, 112.
against fires,
112, 137.
treasurer, accounts, 25,
41, 70, 106,
128, 149, 168.
and collec-
tor, salary
of, 167.
Committees, town treasurer, to issue
notes, 121, 124, 131.
trucks, 52.
voters, to revise list of, 117,
139.
Washington, George, to
dravr up resolutions on
death of, 78.
wharfingers, to confer with,
144.
will of Boylston, Thomas,
76, 77.
workhouse, 113, 114, 351.
Common, bulls on, 353.
sewer, 326.
street, 104.
Commonwealth, the, fi, 7, 10, 17, 32, 34, 36,
51, 54, 61, 63,66,72,74,
81,95, 97, 109, 119,135,
136, 142, 149, 161, 173,
176, 192, 205, 209, 239,
240, 261, 278, 280, 297,
320, 328, 841, 343.
amount due the, 200.
secretary of, 7, 39, 6S, 87,
102, 125, 136, 146, 165,
173, 181, 196, 205, 212,
231, 239, 251, 265, 279,
284, 302, 328, 334.
Confederation, fundamental principle of,
241.
Congress, 7, 23, 51, 135, 136, 173, 205, 237,
238, 239, 278, 316, 317.
Connor, Barney, 83, 99, 120, 142, 162, 177,
192, 209, 228, "248, 263, 281.
Constables, 120, 128,273, 307.
appropriation for 1806, 202.
1807, 219.
1808, 234.
1810, 273.
choice of, 10, 27, 31, 36, 41, 64,
73,82,99,101, 121.
(See, also, Watch.)
Constitution, or frame of government, 19>
21, 38, 40, 67, 69, 86, 89, 102.
103, 124, 126, 127, 145, 146,
164, 16H, 180, 182, 195, 197,
211, 213, 230, 232, 250, 251,
264, 265, 275, 276, 283, 284,
300, 311, 332, 334.
provisions of, 241.
Contract of town with Boston Mill Cor-
poration, 223, 224.
Convention, for Common Good, 325.
to appoint Town Treasurer
and Collector of Taxes,
341, 342, 343.
Convicts, 353.
Coolidge, Caleb, 162, 177, 193, 210, 228.
Joseph, 160, 175, 179, 191, 208,
227, 232, 246, 261, 279, 298, 329.
Samuel F., 333.
William, 333.
Cooper, Samuel, 2, 21, 68.
William, 1, 8, 9, 22, 26, 28, 29, 34,
35, 36, 47, 49, 59, 71, 75, 79, 91, 92,
94, 96, 107, 110, 117, 118, 130, 132,
140, 152, 155, 160, 168, 170, 175,
187, 189, 190. 204, 207, 211, 220,
221, 22R, 230, 235, 236, 245, 246, 250,
254, 255, 268, 269, 270, 274.
Copeland, Elisha, 121.
Nathaniel, 12.
Copp's Hill, purchase of land on, 274.
removal of Gun House from,
278.
Coroners, 307.
Corporations, Aqueduct, 2, 3, 4, 41, 45, 52.
Aqueduct, give bond,
45.
Aqueduct, restrictions on,
55.
Boston Bridge, 201 .
Boston Mill, 217, 218.
364
CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Corporations, Boston Mill, contract with
proprietors of, 223, 224.
erection of mills by, 349.
to build mill dam, 340, 345,
347, 348.
Correspondence, Committee of, 222.
(Jotting, Uriah, 13.
Cotton, John, 324.
Uriah, 140.
Council, the, 53, 56.
County, Norfolk, 54, 136, 153.
Suffolk. (See Suffolk.)
Court, Municipal, 88, 98, 120, 162, 176, 192,
353.
Advocate of, appro-
priation for 1806, 202.
Judge of, appropria-
tion for 1806, 202.
Judge of, compensa-
tion to, 87, 88, 216,
217, 219, 220, 234, 235,
274, 295, 315, 337.
of Common Pleas, 5, 23H, 297.
General, 6, 21, 27, 34, 35, 40, 50, 52,
65, 56, 58, 69, 73, 78, 88, 89, 103,
109, 123, 127, 128, 135, 136, 137,146,
166, 171, 181, 182, 189, 197, 205,
211, 213, 232, 289, 250, 267, 277, 293,
327, 336, 352.
House, erection of, 308.
new, land for, 255.
school near, 314.
passage to, 315.
of Sessions, 5, 9, 17, 32, 74, 110, 119,
228, 265, 298, 327, 332, 338, 339,
352.
Superior Judicial, 5, 297.
Supreme Judicial, 54, 95.
Crafts, Thomas, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 13, 14, 15.
Crocker, Allen, 15.
Joseph, 9.
Cromston, Henry, 27.
Crosby, William, 101.
Cruft (Crufts), Edward, 227, 246, 261, 280,
298, 329.
Cullers of fish. (See Fish.)
of staves. (See Staves.)
Cumberland, district, 172, 173.
Cunningham, Andrew, 9, 60, 80, 98, lis,
141, 176, 191, 208. 227, 246,
261.280, 298, 329.
William, 161.
Curtis, Charles, 270, 27S.
Mr., 271.
Nathaniel, 165, 230, 246, 261, 266,
280, 2*5, 298, 312, 329, 335.
Th;-ophilu8, 295, 315, 331.
Thomas, 176, 191, 208, 227, 246, 261,
280.
Cushing, John, 13.
Jonathan, 11, 33, 36, 63, ?4, 100,
120, 143, 162, 177, 193, 210, 228,
248.
Theophilus, 20, 86, 87.
Custom House, 244, 310.
Cutter, Daniel, 2-28, 248.
Henry, 301.
Dall, William, 176.
Dalton, Peter R.,68.
Dam, from Boston to South Boston, 348.
failure of, 349.
road over, 349.
Damages from agreement with Dam Cor-
poration, 349.
Dane, Nathan, 328.
Danfortl), Thomas, 170, 197, 214, 232, 266.
Darracott (Darracnt, Darricot, Darri-
c-ott), William. 11,31, 62.P4. 82, 83,99,
100, 120, 142, 143, 1<;2, 177, 192, 193.
Davenport, Rufus, 30.
Davis, Amasa, 8, 15,30,54, 53,60, 80, 97,
116,117,118,119,137, 140, 141, 161, 176,
191,208,214,227.
Davis, Charles, 191, 197, 209, 214, 228, 232
247, 252, 261, 266, 280, 285, 299
311,324,330, 334,350.
Isaac P. ,12, 33, 62, 83, 99, 121, 148,
206, 232, 266, 285, 292, 293, 298, 312,
340, 345, 347.
John, 76. 172, 216, 218, 225, 228, 247,
262, 268.
Joshua, 128,148,167, 176,183, 191,
198, 208, 227, 233, 246, 252, 261,280,
293, 298,310,324,347.
Judge, 215, 257.
J. P., 251,310.
Thomas, 39, 111.
Dawes, Thomas, 2, 3, 7, 9, 13, 19, 20, 22, 27,
29, 31, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 49, 51, 52,
59, 60, 67, 68, 70, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 81, 86,
87, 89, 93, 94, 96, 97, 100, 101, 104, 105,
107, 110, 111, 113, 119, 121, 127, 128, 130,
191, 193, 198, 203, 208, 210, 214, 216, 217,
220, 235, 254, 274, 276, 295, 315, 316, 320,
325, 326, 337, 347, 350, 351.
Deane, Josiah, 172.
Debit and credit of the town, 25, 46, 70,
91, 92, 106, 128, 129, 130, 149, 150, 168, 186,
198, 218, 219, 234, 273, 287, 306, 327.
Declaration of Independence, anniver-
sary of, 1, 28, 50, 76, 94, 110, 133, 155,
170, 190, 204, 221, 236, 255, 296, 320, 321,
345
Deeds of land, 15, 206, 215, 280.
for ropewalk, 153.
register of, choice of, 96, 192.
Deer, informer of, choice of, 11, 63.
Deer Island, rent, 200.
salt works on, 136.
Deluce, John, 215, 228, 248, 263, 281, 29EJ,
300, 315.
Demming, John, 9,
Dennie, Thomas, 14, 88, 89,98,118, 141, 161,
176, 191, 208, 227, 232, 246, 252, 261, 266.
Dexter, Aaron, 9, 22, 31, 51, 61, 81, 97, 119,
141, 161, 176, 191, 208, 227, 247,
261, 280, 299, 330.
Samuel, 240, 284, 301, 316, 325, 327,
328, 333.
Diseases, contagious, act to prevent
spread of, 34, 36, 56.
Districts, Barnstable, 172.
Berkshire, 172, 173.
Bristol, 172.
Cumberland, 172, 173.
Essex, 171, 172.
Hampshire, 172.
Kennebeck, 172, 173.
Lincoln, 172, 173.
Maine, 171.
Massachusetts, 171.
Middlesex, 172.
Norfolk, 172, 173.
Plymouth, 172.
Suffolk, 135, 171, 172, 205, 239.
Worcester, 172, 173.
York, 172, 173.
Doane, Isaiah, 116, 137, 140.
Doble, Joseph, 12, 33, 63, 84, 177, 193, 210,
228, 248.
Dock, Ivers, to cleanse, 56.
Olivers, to cleanse, 56.
Olivers, to fill up, 56, 64.
post on, 13.
square, 338, 339.
dealers in, 338.
town, 13, 34, 37, 51, 71, 128, 131.
to cleanse, 56.
Yard, to establish, 84, 85.
Doggett, Neheminh, 149.
Noah, 16-2, 177, 193, 210, 228,247,
262,281,299,330.
Donaldson (Donnison), Ge-n., 14, 64, 140.
Judge, 308.
INDEX.
365
Donaldson (Donnison), William, 67,307.
Dorchester, 138, 148.
annexed to Boston, 157.
conditions of annexation,
158.
Dorr, Samuel, 344, 346, 351.
Dow, Samuel, 10.
Drain, Kilby street, 164.
Duggan, John, 20, 22, 40, 68.
Dunn, Samuel, 125, 126, 285, 312, 335.
Dutton, Warren, 189, 190, 252, 266, 325.
Dyke, on Neck, 267.
Eason,. James, 100.
Eaton, David S., 301.
Joseph, 22.
her., 207, 329.
Eayres, Moses, 299, 330.
Eckley, Joseph, 81, 95, 97, 119, 141, 161, 164,
176, 190, 191, 208, 226, 227,229,230,247,
264.
Edes, Edward, S, 12, 14, 29, 30, 33, 59, 60,
62 79, 80, 83, 97, 98, 99, 117, 118, 120, 126,
141, 142.
Edicts, 317.
Education, new system of, 9, 10.-31, 61, 81,
97, 119, 142, 161, 176, 192, 209, 228, 247,
261, 280, 330.
Edwards, Richard, 211.
Thomas, 8, 20, 21, 29, 39, 51, 52,
60, 64, 104, 138, 151, 173, 175,
178, 180.
Electors of President and Vice-President,
choice of, 6, 7, 23, 171, 172, 173, 328.
Eliot (Elliot), 344.
Ephraim, 279, 292, 293, 298,
310, 329, 351.
Rev. Dr., 21, 89, 160, 180,
213,251,311.
Simon, 76, 78, 80, 87, 98,
• 118,141,161,176,183,191,
197, 208, 214, 227, 246, 252,
261, 266.
Ellis, Jonathan, 135.
Joshua, 312, 333.
Ellison, James, 228.
William, 31, 64, 82, 100, 120, 143,
162, 177, 193, 210, 228, 247, 248,
262, 281, 299, 330.
Embargo, 237, 241, 242, 244, 245.
Emmerson, William, 85, 97, 103, 119, 132,
133,141,161, 176, 191, 195, 209, 228, 247,
261, 278, 280, 286.
Emmes, Samuel, 120.
Emmons, Samuel, 142, 162, 177, 192, 209,
229, 248, 263, 281. 300, 331.
Engine, hay, 106, 107, 129.
house, repairs, 202, 219, 234.
men, exempt from jury, 236, 297.
England, threatened war with, 317
Essex, 171, 172.
Eunson, James, 85, 120, 143, 162, 177, 193,
210, 228, 248, 262, 281, 299.
Eustis, Jacob, 140.
William, 13, 16, 20, 21, 24, 34, 35, 36,
39, 40, 41, 51, 55, 64, 68, 69, 87, 89,
95, 135, 169, 173, 205, 211, 212, 222,
231,233,239,240,333.
Everett, David, 278.
Oliver, 95.
Expense of supporting people in jail,
353.
Expenses of town for current year, 25,
46, 71, 92, 255, 274.
Faneuil Hall, 1, 2, 6, 7, 19, 21, 27, 28, 38, 39,
49, 50, 58, 67, 69, 75, 76, 78,
79, 86, 87, 88, 93, 94, 96, 101 ,
103, 110, 111, 116, 117, 124,
125, 126, 127, 132, 133, 1«4,
135,136, 137, 138, 139,140,
145, 146, 147, 155, 156, 158,
159, 160, 164, 165, 166, 167,
170, 171, 173, 175, 180, 181,
Faneuil Hall, 182, 183, 188, 189, 190, 195,
196, 198, 203, 204, 205, 207,
210, 213, 214. 221, 222, 225,
226, 230, 232, 233, 236, 237,
239, 245, 249, 251, 2.V2, -IK,
256, 257, 2GO, 264, 265, 266,
275, 276, 278, 279, 283, 284,
285, 286, 296, 297, 300,311,
312, 315, 320, 326, 327, 329,
332, 334, 335, 340, 341, 344,
345, 347.
bell in cupola, 43.
enlarging of, 184, 185, 202,
271.
expenses of,
219, 336.
Market. (See Market.)
portrait of Washington
to ue hung in, 194, 355.
resources from, 271.
Farley, John, 173.
Faxon, Richard, 285, 312, 335, 341.
Fellows, Nathaniel, 9, 30, 60, 70, 80, 97.
103, 104, 105, 112,119, 123, 124, 126, 127,
131, 138, 140, 146, 147.
Fence viewers, choice of, 12, 33, 62, 83, 99,
120, 142, 162, 177, 192, 209, 228, 248, 262,
281, 299, 330.
Fenno, William, 36, 63.
Ferries, Winnisimmet, 85.
Fessenden, Benjamin, 117.
Flllebrown, Thomas, 173.
Fines, 74, 84, 129, 149.
Firemen, premiums to, 25, 46.
Fires, 15, 112, 113, 116. 137.
Fire wards, 14, 80, 119, 138, 194, 205, 208,
216, 261.
choice of, 8, 9, 15, 30, 60, 80,
97, 118, 123, 141, 161, 176,
183, 191, 208, 214, 227, 230,
246, 266, 280, 298, 329.
exempt from jury, 236.
resignation of, 266.
request compensation, 178.
salary of, 179.
Fish, cullers of, choice of, 12, 33, 63, 84,
100, 120, 143, 162, 177, 193, 210, 228,
248, 262,281,299,330.
stalls in Market square to be shut
up, 26.
street, 132.
Flood gates, 224.
Folsom, John W., 140.
T. W., 106.
Fort Hill, 41, 45, 72, 73.
circular walk on, 185.
gun-house on, erection of, 276.
land on, for use of artillery
company, 278.
proceeds of sale of land on,
219.
reservoir on, 41, 45.
Foster, Hopestill, 106.
Joseph', 229, 246, 260, 279, 297, 310,
328, 329, 344, 346.
Thomas, 11,36,63.
Fowle, Henry, 214, '2.'7.
Fox, John, 117.
France, alliance with, 319.
commerce of, 242.
decrees of, 317.
views of, 317.
Francis, Silas, 229, 248, 263, 282.
Franklin street, 15.
Frazer, Nathan. 69, 89.
Freeman, Rev. Mr., 102, 166.
French Revolution, 321.
Abraham, 24, 26.
John, 31, 64.
Front street, 178.
Fuller, Asa, 13, 15.
Funerals, at Granary and chapel, discon-
tinuance of, 277.
use of hearses at, 17.
366
CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Gardiner, J. S. J., 310, 328.
Gardner, Jeremiah, 3i'7.
John, -211,230.
Lemuel, 85, 100, 120, 143, 162,
177, 193, 210, 228, 247.
Rev. Mr., 135.
Robert, 9, 30, 60, 80, 97, 116, 118,
137, 140, 141, 161, 167, 176, 179,
284.
Rt., 117.
Gates for dam, 348.
General Court. (See Court.)
Gerry, Elbridge, IS), 20, 68, 86, 102, 124, 145,
172, 180, 196, 211, 231, 250, 251, 264, 283,
301.
Geyer, Thomas, 30.
Gill, Mosvs, 19, 20, 38, 68, 86.
Gleason, Joseph, 14.
Glover, Nathaniel, 247, 262, 281, 299, 330.
Goal, physician to, 307.
Goddard, Benjamin,, 118, 141, 160, 175, 191,
197, 208, 214, 227, 232, 246.
Thacher, 285, 312, 334.
Gooch, William, 106, 129, 149.
Goodlme, Benjamin, 171.
Goodwin, David, 278.
Ozias. 160, 161, 175, 176, 191, 208,
227, 246, 261, 279, 298, 324, 329,
351.
Goolsburough, 171.
Gore, Christopher, 180, 196, 212, 222, 231,
232, 237,*250, 251, 264, 283, 325.
Gorham, Benjamin, 325.
Stephen, 8, 22, 29, 40, 51, 59, 98,
118, 141, 161, 212.
Governor and Lieut.-Governor, choice
of, 19, 20, 23, 38, 68, 102,124, 145, 164, 180,
196, 211, 231, 250, 264, 283, 301, 333.
Grant to Mill Dam Corporation, 348.
William, 152.
Grants and allowances. (See Salaries.)
Graves, removal of bodies from, 276.
in Granary burying-ground, 257.
Gray, Edward, !*, 31, 61, 81, 97, 117, 119, 141,
161, 176, 183, 340.
John, 106, 130, 150, 201, 287.
Mr., 194.
William, 264, 283, 301, 327, 328, 333.
Great Britain, 316, 318,319.
commerce of, 241.
Green (Greene), David, 21, 23, 31,61,68,
81,97,119,141,161,176,
191, 208, 228, 247, 261,
280, 299, 326.
William, 193,210,228,247,
2K2, 281, 299, 330.
Greenough, David, 351.
Gridley, Samuel, 27, 31, 64, 82, 99.
Gun-house, 53, 72, 73, 76.
permit to erect, 276.
removal of, 278.
Hall, James, 13.
Joseph, 69, 89, 94, 183.
Hallowell, 172, 173.
Hamlin, George, 12, 33, 62, 83.
Hammatt (H a m m e t, Hammett\
Benjamin, 61,67,81,99.
William, 216, 232, 233, 252,
257, 266, 268, 285, 295, 312, 334,
347, 350.
William J., 330.
Hammond, Mary, 201.
Hampshire district, 172.
Hancock, Ebenezer, 23, 29, 52, 59, 79, 96,
134, 135.
John, 13, 205, 215, 263, 268.
Thomas, 215.
Harrington, Ruf us, 228, 248, 263, 281, 300,
331.
Harris, Edward, 333.
Gyles, 10, 32, 61.
Jonathan, 15, 29, 60, 206, 233, 251,
301.
Harris, William, 312, 335.
Hart, Edmund, 84, 85.
Hartshorne, O., 121, 129.
Haskell, Itev. Mr., 124.
Hastings, Samuel, 106.
Hatch, Jabez, 8, 30, 60, 80.
Hathorn, Col. John, 172.
Haverhill, 172.
Haward, Rev. Dr., 6, 140.
Hay engine, 106, 107, 129.
market, income from, 200.
weigher, 152.
Hayes (Hays;, Judah, 183, 194.
Michael Moses, 39.
Hay ward, Lemuel, 284.
Haywards, choice of, 12, 33, 62, 83, 85, 99,
"120, 142, 162, 177, 192, 209, 215, 217, 228,
230, 248, 263, 281, 295, 300, 315, 331.
Head, Joseph, 22, 30, 60, 80, 97, 118, 141,
161, 176, 191, 208, 227, 232, 246, 252, 261,
280, 298, 325.
Healcy, Mr., 71.
Heard, John, 191, 209, 228, 247, 261, 280,
284, 299, 330.
Hearsey, Thomas, 248, 262.
Heath, William, 20, 38, 51, 68, 86, 102, 124,
165, 173, 180, 196, 283, 301.
Hemp, surveyors of, choice of, 11, 33, 62,
83, 99, 120, 142, 162, 177, 192, 209, 229,
248, 263, 281, 300, 331.
Henderson, Benjamin, 11, 25, 35, 46, 62,
70, 82, 92, 99, 106, 128, 129, 150, 152.
Hewes (Hews), Richard, 117.
Samuel, 140.
Shubael, 10, 31, 63, 82, 99.
Hichborn (Hichbourne), Philip, 11, 36, 63.
Samuel, 340.
Hicks, Zachariah, 340.
Higginson, Stephen, 7, 22, 39, 40, 181, 212,
232, 251.
Highways, surveyors of, choice of, 12, 93,
63, 84, 100, 120, 143, 163, 177, 193, 210, 229,
248, 263, 282, 300, 331.
Hill, Henry, 8, 14, 16, 17, 18, 21, 29, 59, 79,
98, 118, 141, 160, 175, 191, 208, 327, 246,
261, 279.
Hitchborn, Thomas, 10, 61.
Hoar, Samuel, 328.
Hodgdon, Benjamin, 30.
Hogreeves, choice of, 12, 33, 62, 83, 85, 99,
120, 142, 162, 177, 209, 215, 228, 230, 248,
281,295, 300, 315,331.
Holbrook, Jirah, 10, 14, 31, 82, 99, 121.
Jonah, 63.
Holland, Jacob, 125.
Holley t Holly), Horace, 249,326, 327, 330,
334.
Hollis, David, 12, 32, 62, 83.
Romans, Benjamin, 10, 279, 284, 302, 310.
Homer, Eleazer, 195, 210, 228, 247, 262, 281,
299, 330.
Michael, 253, 263, 282, 300, 331.
Homes, Barzillia, 312.
Hospital of almshouse, number of peo-
ple in, 353.
on almshouse estate, 314.
bequest toward building, 163.
House of Correction, cost of building,
1 14, 354.
court of sessions,
provide for, 352.
petition to estab-
lish, 351.
use of, as jail, 353.
Representatives. (See Repre-
sentatives.)
Hovey, Amos, 68.
How (Howe), Edward, 106, 108.
John, 247, 262, 281, 299, 330.
Nathaniel, 228, 248, 262, 281,
299, 330.
Howard, John C., 30.
John D., 176, 191, 208, 214, 285,
312, 335, 340.
INDEX.
367
Howard, Joseph, 15, 29, 30, 33, 41, 59, 60,
79, 80, 91, 96, 97, 117, 118, 141,
161.
Hubbard (Hubbart), Tuthill, 201, 287.
Hudson, Hezekiah, 228, 248, 262, 281.
Hunneman, William Cooper, 83, 100, 120,
142, 162, 177, 192, 209, 229.
Hunnewell, Jonathan, 96, 103,117, 118,123,
126, 127, 141, 143, 147, 160, 161, 166, 175,
176, 181, 182, 191, 197. 207,208,213,227,
232, 246, 251, 252, 260, 261, 266, 279, 280,
284, 285, 297, 298, 311, 326, 328, 329, 333,
334, 345.
Hunt, Augustus, 13, 212.
Samuel, 24, 27, 178, 179, 18i, 187,
188, 202.
Huntington, Rev., 239.
Hurd, John, 37,59, 81, 99.
Hutchinson, Edward, 86.
street, to widen, 3.
Hutson, Hezekiah, 11, 36, 63.
Idle and disorderly persons, act to pun-
ish, 352.
Inches, Henderson, 62, 212.
Independence Day, celebration of the
anniversary, 1, 28, 50, 75, 94, 110, 133,
155, 170, 190, 204, 221, 236, 255, 275, 296,
320, 345.
Indictment against town, 282.
Informer of deer. (See Deer.)
Ingersol, Daniel, 33, 62, 77, 82, 83, 99,
100, 120, 142, 143, 162, 177, 192, 193, 209,
210.
Ingraham, Joseph, 73, 82.
Inhabitants, 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 15, 16, 17, 19,
20, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,
32, 34, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41,
42, 44, 47, 49, 50, 52, 54, 55,
56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 65, 67,
69, 70, 71, 73, 76, 76, 77, 78,
79, 80, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 91,
92, 93, 94, 96, 97, 9S, 101, 103,
104, 107, 109, 110, 111, 113,
115, 116, 117, 118, 122, 124,
126, 127, 130, 132, 133, 134,
135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140,
141, 145, 146, 147, 149, 152,
155, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160,
161, 164, 165, 166. 167, 168,
170, 171, 173, 174, 175, 176,
179, 180, 181, 182, 183, 184,
185, 187, 188, 189, 190, 191,
195, 196, 197, 198, 203, 204,
205, 207, 210, 213, 214, 216,
220, 221, 222, 223, 225, 226,
230, 232, 233, 236, 237, 238,
239, 240, 245, 249, 251, 255,
256, 258, 2o9, 260, 264, 265,
266. 269, 275, 276, 277, 278,
279, 283, 284, 285, 296, 297,
300, 302, 321, 323, 327, 328,
332, 334, 335, 336, 340, 345,
347, 350.
arming of, 324.
tax on, 274.
Injunction on Town Treasurer, 309.
Inmates of almshouse, number of, 353.
Inoculation, 133.
Islands, Noddles, 85.
Ivers dock, to cleanse, 56.
James, 215.
Jackson, Charles, 232, 251, 252, 284, 312
316, 325.
Henry, 9, 30, 60, 80, 84, 85, 97, 118,
141, 161, 176, 191, 208, 227.
James, 284.
Jonathan, 151.
Jail, 115, 353.
people in, 353.
James, Francis, 229, 248, 263, 282, 300,
331.
Jaquish, Aaron, 24, 26.
Jarvis, Charles, 13, 20, 22, 39, 68, 70, 76, 87,
102, 103, 105, 127, 146, 153, 167, 169,
222.
Peter, 151.
William, 233, 239.
Jennings, William, 14.
Jepson, Benjamin, 11, 25, 35, 46, 62, 70, 82,
92, 9:», 106, 128, 129, 150, 152.
Jones, Edward, 12, 33, 62.
John Coffin, 14, 18, 20, 39, 51, 68, 78,
83, 84, 85, 87, 102, 103, 111, 117, 127,
138, 145, 148, 171,211,222, 231, 240,
251, 278, 284, 316, 320, 324, 325, 333.
Joseph, 284.
Thomas Kilby, 197, 212, 214, 284.
Joy, Benjamin, 30, 60, 80, 97, 118, 141, 161.
John, 218, 257,268.
Thomas, 327.
Jurors, act regulating choice of, 5, 335.
choice of, 5, 297.
grand, 23(i, 297, 338.
law relative to, 235, 335.
petit, 5, 23C, 297.
traverse, 236, 297.
Jury boxes, 76, 140.
to regulate, 205.
engine men exempt from, 297.
Justices of Court of Sessions, application
to, 255, 327.
of the peace, 116, 211, 230, 307, 338,
344.
use of jail by, 353.
Keating, Oliver, 252, 266, 285, 295, 312, 334.
Kempton, William, 84.
Kennebeck district, 172, 173.
Kennedy, John, 10.
Kent, Seth, 310.
Kettel (Kettle), Joseph, 117, 194, 207, 227,
229.
Kilby street, 159, 163.
Kine pox, 133.
King, Gidney, 298, 329, 340.
William, 301, 333.
Kingston, 172.
Kirkland, John T., 23, 31, 61, 81, 97, 119,
141, 161, 176, 191, 196, 208, 227, 247, 261,
280.
Kitteredge, Thomas, 172.
Knapp, Joseph, 148.
Josiah, 71, 105, 128, 138, 140, 153,
167, 178, 183, 252, 266, 285, 312.
Knox, Henry, 180, 196.
Kuhn, John, 84, 333.
Lamps, 14, 52, 53, 56, 130.
appropriation for, 25, 46, 202, 219,
234.
to be lighted, 56,
Lancaster, 173.
Land, claim to, on which almshouse
stands, 249,
for new school-house, to purchase,
144.
town's, west of ajmshouse, for
House of Correction, 301.
Fort Hill, proceeds of, 219.
use of for Artillery Co.,
278.
lease, near John Odin's ware-
house, 326.
Old State House, selling of, 54, 78.
owners, Fuller, Asa, 16.
purchase of on Copp's Hill, 274.
near North Burying
Ground, 257, 260.
taken by town, 5.
town, release on Kilby street, 163.
relinquish all claim to Mill
Pond, 217.
town's application to lay pipes
through, 2, 4.
on Beach street, to sell,
71.
368
CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Land, town's exchange of, 3, 72, 121, 20fi.
on Fort Hill, 72, 73.
lease of, 41,
45.
to sell, 185.
given for new street, 178.
gun-house, to erect on, 53.
moneys for sale of, 3.
on the Neck, 13, 16, 44, 71,
84, 101, 104,
105, 108,128,
134,147,167,
183, 206,214,
216, 233,252,
267, 287,289,
294, 347.
candle man-
u f a c tory
on, 16.
grant of, 267.
conditions of
sale of, 184,
186, 289.
slaughte r-
house on,
16.
trustees for,
choice of,
105, 167,183,
198,214,252,
287, 294,347.
trustees to
manage,
105, 108,134,
148,167,183.
on Orange street, disposal
of, 165.
for reservoir, lease of, 41.
for ropewalks, 153, 194.
sale of, on which alms-
house stands, 65.
to sell, 90, 121, 289.
value of, on Beacon Hill,
286.
opposite mall,
286.
at South bridge,
286, 307.
wharf on, to build, 139.
not to build, 149.
Lane, Henry, 121.
Late, Willia'm, 84.
Lathrop, Rev. Dr., 175, 240, 260, 300.
Law for erecting workhouse, 351, 352.
Laws against foreigners, 116.
vagrants, to be executed,
115.
assize on bread, 17, 19.
embargo, 241, 244,245.
new edition of, 109, 110.
to be read at town meeting, 7, 21, 29,
58, 79, 96, 117, 140, 160, 175, 190, 207,
226, 246, 297, 329.
prohibiting sale of oysters, 37.
onredistricting Commonwealth, 264.
regulating buildings, 138, 139, 195.
relating to town olficers, 329.
relative to health, 37, 58.
jurors, 235, 335.
mourning, 69, 89, 103.
wood, 34, 63, 343, 144.
to enforce embargo, 242, 245.
regulate paving of streets, 74.
secure town against fires, 15.
to re-
peal, 27.
Leather, sealers of, choice of, 12, 32, 62, 83.
Lee, George C., 252, 266.
George G., 285, 312, 335.
Legionary Brigade, 189.
Legislature, 84, 88, 115. 117, 128, 138, 158,
189, 267, 277, 316, 343, 352.
petition to, 241, 242, 243, 290,
340.
Legislature, resolves of, relative to dis-
posing of Old State House,
54.
Leonard, George, 172.
Leopard, 222.
Letter from Bray, Major, 194.
from Clap, Samuel, 134.
from .Jane Stuart, 355.
Committee of Correspondence,
222.
from Fellows, Nathaniel, 104, 105.
from Howard, Joseph, 34.
from Parkman, Samuel, 194.
from school committee, 188.
from Sever, Ebenezer, 34.
from Sturgis, Russell, 34, 104, 105.
from Tilden, David, 104, 105, 229.
Leverett, John, 249, 287t
Lewis, Amos, 10, 31, 39, 63, 82, 99, 121,
333.
Thomas, 68, 116, 137, 140, 211, 212,
239, 299.
Lilley, John S., 39.
Lime, inspectors of, choice of, 263, 282, 300,
331.
Lincoln, 172.
district, 172, 173.
Gen., 245.
Levi,211, 231, 250, 283.
Mitchell, 116, 117, 137, 140.
List Of jurors, 5, 140, 235, 236.
Little, William, 8, 9, 20, 21, 29, 30, 40, 60,
283,301,3:53.
Livermore, Ed. St. Loe, 316, 325, 345.
Samuel, 327.
Lloyd, James, 182, 197, 212, 214, 231, 333,
334.
Logwood, 115.
London, 77.
Lord, John, 172.
Samuel, 140.
Lord's Day, 10, 32, 61, 81, 98, 156.
Loring, Braddock, 177, 193, 210, 228, 247,
262, 281, 299, 330.
Brodick, 162.
C., 126.
James, 344.
Jonathan, 102, 285, 312, 335.
Joseph, 11, 3t>, «;3.
Matthew, 12, 32, 62.
Nathaniel, 83.
Lothrop, John, 1.
Rev. Dr., 7, 67, 211.
Levering, Joseph, 297, 298, 328, 329.
Lovet, James, 3.
Lovis, William, 299.
Low, William, 31, 64, 70.
Lowell, Charles, 204, 283, 286, 299, 330.
John, 14, 18, 40, 69, 72, 73, 75, 76, 89,
94, 127, 147, 251, 292, 293, 298, 307,
310, 331.
Lyman, Theodore, 240, 325.
Mackay (Mackey), Mungo, 9, 14, 129.
William, 138, 160, 175, 191, 208,
227, 246, 261, 279, 298, 329, 342,
343. •
Magistrates, 115, 323.
Magner (Magnor), John, 20, 40, 68.
Maine district, 171.
Market, cellar nnder, 72.
clerk of, 42, 43.
choice of, 13, 30, 36.
salary of, 25, 46.
forestalling of, 332, 338.
hay, income from, 200.
inspectors of, 338, 340.
license to sell in, 338.
regulations of, 37, 38, 42, 43.
rent for stalls in, 42, 152, 286.
stands in, to sell at auction, 35.
square, no more fish stalls in, 5:6.
stalls in, 42, 84.
rent for, 200.
INDEX.
369
Marshall, Christopher, 99, 106, 128, 129,
150, 152.
Josiah, 333, 340, 350.
Marston, James B., 340.
Maryland, 324.
Mason, Jonathan, 20, 22, 68, 87, 146, 165,
182, 197, 212, 213, 222, 237, 240.
Massachusetts district, 171.
embargo act enforced,
240, 241, 242, 243, 244.
Mattoon, Eben, 172. '
Mav, Enoch, 10, 31, 63, 82, 99.
John, 9, 13, 16, 30, <iO, 80, 97, 118, 138,
140, 141, 147, 160, 161, 175, 191, 207,
226, 246, 260, 266, 279, 285, 297, 312,
326.
Joseph, 2, 5, 9, 22, 30, 40, 52, 59, 60,
64, 73, 8(1, 97, 118, 141, 161, 176, 178,
191, 208, 227, 246, 261, 280.
Samuel, 333.
McCleary, S. F.,355.
McKean, Joseph, 252.
Mead, Israel, 248, 263, 281, 300, 331.
Joseph, 9.
Meeting-houses, Mr. Murray's, 174.
Old brick, 28.
Old South Church, 1, 50,
75, 94, 110, 132, 139, 155,
156, 157, 170, 190, 204,
221. 236, 296, 345.
Melvill (Melville), Thomas, 8, 24, 30, 60,
80, 97, 118, 141, 161, 176, 191, 208, 227,
246, 261, 280, 298, 329.
Memorial to Legislature, 244.
to the President, 238.
from William Smith, 311.
Memorialists, 241, 242.
Merchants row, 202.
Messenger (Messinger), Daniel, 22, 116,
117, 123, 137, 141, 161, 176,
191, 208, 227, 246, 252, 261,
266, 280, 285, 298, 312. 329,
334, 341.
Henry, 333.
Middlecot street, 90.
Middlesex canal, 348.
district, 172.
Military fines, 304.
Militia, assembly of, 324.
Mill creek, 224.
fish stall on, to erect, 101, 105.
dam, petition to build, 340.
improvements, 340.
pond, 35, 36, 37, 220, 223, 226.
filling up, 159, 164, 169, 215, 216,
217, 224, 271, 286.
stones, 349.
Miller, Charles, 14.
Mills, erection of, on dam, 349.
Minns, Thomas, 68.
Minot, George R., 2, 9, 14, 15, 18, 41, 51, 76,
78, 100, 104, 105, 106, 110, 113,
149.
William, 281.
Mitchell, Rev., 284.
Mobs, 321, 322, 324.
Moderator, choice of, 1, 2, 6, 7, 22, 27, 28,
29, 40, 49, 51, 59, 70, 75, 76, 78, 79, 87, 89,
93, 94, 96, 104, 110, 111, 116, 117, 127, 132,
133, 134, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 147, 153,
155, 156, 158, 159, 160, 165, 167, 170, 173,
175, 181, 183, 189, 190, 198, 204, 205, 207,
214, 221, 222, 225, 226, 233, 236, 237, 240,
246, 252, 255, 256, 259, 260, 266, 270, 276,
278, 279, 282, 286, 296, 297, 312, 315, 320,
321, 329, 335, 337, 340, 345, 347.
Moneys, 10, 11, 32, 33, 42, 45. 62, 65, 81, 90,
98, 121, 144, 168, 186, 193, 198, 210,
216, 218, 249.
allowed by government for artil-
lery, 53.
borrowed, 66, 72, 93, 108, 111, 112,
130, 132, 186, 218, 234.
counterfeit bills, 106, 151.
Moneys for almshouse, new, 46, 48, 49,
65, 130, 149.
for Board of Health, 72, 93, 108.
130, 132.
hospital, for building, 163.
in Union Bank, 2.
paid Brown, S., 106, 149.
paid to Clouston, Louis, 4.
paid Hunt, Samuel, 188, 202.
paid for interest, 129, 149.
paid Seaver, Ebenezer, 199.
paid to Thwing, James, 4.
paid bv town treasurer, 149.
received to support State poor,
149.
to defray expense of filling up
the dock, 56.
Morse, E., 126.
Morton, Perez, 13, 21, 24, 39.
Moss, Uriah, 27.
Mourning, mark of, for death of George
Washington, 78.
Murray, John, 126, 127, 174.
National Government, 317.
Navy, Continental, 85.
secretary of, 80.
Neck, the. (See Boston Neck.)
Negroes, 72, 73.
Nefl, Thomas, 13.
Nelson, Jeremiah, 328.
New Castle, 173.
Newell, Timothy, 173.
New England Insurance office, 304.
Newport, 355.
New Salem, 172.
Newspapers, advertisements in, 22, 23, 24,
43, 44, 52, 53, 56, 57, 65, 216,
220.
Centinel, 5.
Chronicle, 5.
report of selectmen, printed
in, 101.
printing by-laws in, 339.
resolutions against embar-
go printed in, 245.
resolutions on death of
George Washington,
printed in, 78.
vote of thanks published in,
113.
Nichols, Perkins, 226, 229.
Nickerson, Capt., 39.
Night carts, 2t-2.
Noddles Island, 85.
Norfolk County, 54, 136, 153.
district, 172, 173.
Virginia, 222, 223.
Norton, 172.
Samuel, 102.
Notes, 47, 92, 201, 273. 287.
from treasurer, 10, 32, 62, 81, 82, 98,
107.
payable, 106, 130, 150, 201, 218, 234,
287, 305.
receivable, 107, 129, 150, 201,218,234,
287, 305.
town treasurer to issue, 121, 124,
131.
Noyes, Joseph, 250.
Nathaniel, 24, 140, 310.
William, 284.
Oakum, 114.
Oath of office, 8, 9, 29, 59, 79, 96, 118, 140,
160, 175, 190, 207, 226, 230, 246, 260, 279,
297, 329, 344.
Odin, John, 326.
Oil, 25, 46, 53, 130, 202, 219, 234.
Old brick meeting-house, 28.
Old South Church, 1, 50, 75, 94, 110, 132,
139, 165, 156, 157, 170, 190, 204, 221, 236,
255,294, 321,345.
370
CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Old State House, disposal of, 34, 51, 54, 78,
136, 153.
partition of, 95.
rent, '200, 271, 286.
to be leased, conditions
of lease, 154.
town's claim to, 117.
Oliver, Andrew, 22.
Ebenezer, 44, 45, 7», 87, 91, 96, 117,
118, 141, 160, 175, 191, 207, 227, 246,
260, 279, 297, 328, 329, 337.
Francis J., 298, 326, 329, 330.
Thomas, 13.
Oliver's dock, to cleanse, 56.
to Jill up, 56, 64.
Orange street, 165, 178.
Oration, on anniversary of Independence,
1, 28, 50, 75, 94, 110, 133, 155, 170,
190, 204, 221, 236, 255, 296, 320,
345.
cnoice of orator, 1, 28, 50, 75, 94,
110, 132, 155, 170, 190, 204, 221,
236,255,296,321,345.
copy of, to be furnished the press,
1, 28, 50, 75,111, 133, 155, 171, 190,
204, 221, 236, 255, 296, 321, 345.
to be delivered at old brick meet-
ing-house, 28.
Old South
Church, 1, 50,
75, 94, 110,
132, 155, 170,
190, 204, 221.
236, 255, 294,
321, 345.
Orcutt, Samuel, 333.
Osborn, John, 13.
Otis, Harrison Gray, 7, 39, 51, 76, 102, 119,
127, 147, 148, 158, 165, 166, 180, 196, 211,
212, 222, 231, 250, 265, 276, 277, 2t-3, 301,
316, 325, 328, 333, 334.
Overseers of the poor. (See Poor.)
Owen, Benjamin, 330.
Oysters, to prevent sale of, in summer,
35, 36, 37.
Page, Benjamin, 11, 30, 64, 82, 100, 120, 143.
Thomas, 233, 280, 298, 329.
Pain (Paine), Aaron, 301.
Charles, 30, 110, 143, 147.
Robert T., 70.
William, 206.
Palmer, George, 340.
Parker, Isaac, 172.
J., 250.
Jedidiah, 93, 99, 135.
John, 68, 232, 252, 266, 285, 312.
Rev. Dr., 40.
Parkman, John, 355.
Samuel, 8, 30, 40, 51, 60, 69, 80,
89, 97, 103, 111, 117, 118, 127,
140,141, 147,161, 176, 183, 191,
194, 197, 208, 213, 259, 325, 355.
William, 11, 36.
Parsons, Gorham, 118, 119, 123.
Gorman, 80, 98.
Nehemiah, 292, 293, 298, 310.
Theophilus, 146, 182.
William, 22, 83, 84, 85, 183, 218,
257, 268, 325.
Partridge, Elizabeth, 107, 130, 150, 201, 287.
Patrole, voluntary, choice of, 116.
Pearce, William, 328.
Pease, Timothy, 11, 36, 63.
Penniman, Asa, 38.
Perkins, 344.
Col., 240.
James, 51,237, 316, 325.
Samuel L., 13.
Thomas, 8, 29, 59. 79, 98, 118, 141,
160, 197, 208, 213, 227, 246, 261,
279, 298, 329.
Thomas H., 9, 22, 30, 60, 80, 97,
118, 119, 141, 161, 175, 176, 181,
Perkins, Thomas H., 183, 191, 197, 208,
212, 213, 222, 227, 240, 243, 246, 251, 261,
284, 333.
Peter, Black, 39.
Peters, John, 39.
Petition for auctions, out-door, 24, 72.
bridge, new, 138.
street, new, 6, 104, 106.
a town meeting, 181.
Old State tiouse, for partition, 95.
of assessors, 178, 179.
board of health, 133.
Brazer, John, 135.
Clouston, Louis, 4.
Cooper, Samuel, 2.
Davis, Amasa, 62.
Isaac P., 148, 310, 347.
Ellis, Jonathan, 135.
fisherman, 34, 37,44.
Trench, Abraham, 24, 26.
Fuller, Asa, 13, 15.
Greenough, David, 351.
Hill, Henry, 14, 16, 17.
Howe, Edward, 106, 108.
Hunt, Samuel, 24, 27, 178, 179,
184, 187.
Ivers, James, 215.
Jaqulsh, Aaron, 24, 26.
Knapp, Josiah, 71, 178.
Kuhn, John, 84.
Lovet, James, 3.
Nichols, Perkins, 226, 229.
number of black persons, 35,
91.
inhabitants, 6,27,
72, 76, 104, ill,
137, 144,276,277,
332, 351.
of South Bos-
ton, 174, 295.
Patten, Nathaniel, 84.
Phillips, William, 163.
physicians, 133.
Powell. William, 51,56.
Pratt, James, 101, 105.
purchasers of land on the
Neck, 183, 184.
Stutson, Amasa, 216.
Sullivan, John L., 90.
Tate, James, 4, 5.
Thayer, Seth, 216.
Thwing, James, 4.
truckmen, 53.
Tuckerman, Edward, 139, 148.
Tudor, William, j
Otis, Harrison G., [ 165.
Mason, Jonathan, )
Wendall, Judge, 72, 73.
Wilds, Major, 72.
wood wharfingers, 143, 144.
to annex Dorchester, 157.
General Court, 240.
Legislature, 241, 242, 243.
President of United States,
238.
Phillips, James, 162, 177, 192, 209, 227, 229,
248, 261, 263, 280, 281, 298, 300,
o.-)Q 3 ai
John', 88, 98, 100, 103, 108, 120,
131, 141, 142, 147, 152, 154, 161,
162, 165, 167, 169, 173, 176, 181,
183, 187, 191, 192, 196, 203, 208,
209, 212, 228, 231, 237, 246, 247,
250, 257, 260, 261, 263, 264, 265,
268, 272, 280, 283, 299, 301, 312,
315, 326, 329, 332, 333, 335, 342.
Jonathan, 279, 298, 329.
Mr., 48.
Samuel, 20, 39, 68,86, 102.
William, 8. 29, 59, 80, 98, 118,
141, 159, 160, 163, 175, 182, 191,
197, 198, 208, 213, 214, 227, 232,
233, 246, 252, 261, 266, 279, 283,
284, 285, 298, 301, 329, 333.
INDEX.
371
Physician of goal, 307.
Physicians, petition of, 133.
Pierce, Joseph. 312, 335.
Pleasant street, 53, 121.
Plymouth district, 172.
street, 91.
Police, 43, 72,112, 273.
appropriation for 1806, -202.
1807, 219.
Pollard, Benjamin, 320.
Pond street, 90, 22!).
Pook, Charles, 228, 248, 262, 2S1, 299, 330.
Poor, overseers of the, 33, 48, 64,101,113,
115, 161, 168, 189.
accounts of, to
audit, 11, 32, 63,
83, 100, 121, 143,
150,163, 178,193,
198, 210, 218, 234,
248, 2.53, 263, 282,
300,312,331.
appropriation for
1804, 168.
1805, 186.
1806, 202.
1807, 219.
1808, 235.
1810, 274.
1811, 294.
1812, 313.
1813, 336.
choice of, 'a, 29,
59, 79, 98, 104,
118,141,160,175,
191,208 227,246,
279, 329.-
drafts of, 25, 47,
91, 106, 128, 130,
143,151,186,218,
219,270,305,312,
336.
exempt from
jury, 236.
Popkins, John, 125.
Porter, William, 44, 59, 79, 91, 96, 117, 118,
141, 160, 175, 191, 207, 2.J7, 246,
260, 266, 279, 285, 297, 312, 335.
Portland, 172.
Portsmouth, 222, 233.
Portrait of Washington, 355.
Powder, 25, 27, 46, 70, 91, 106, 129, 150, 201
O IQ
Powell', William, 51, 56, 58, 64.
Pratt, James, 101. 105.
Prescott, Samuel J., 285, 312, 335.
William, 261, 280, 284, 285, 299,
301, 326.
President of United States, petition to, 238.
proclamation
of, 222, 241.
Price, Ezekiel, 8, 9, 15, 107, 130, 150, 307.
Mr., 32.
Prince, J., 164.
James, 72, 73, 100, 102, 103, 111, 112,
137, 140, 153, 156, 159, 205, 212, 215,
216, 217, 276, 282.
John, 212.
Samuel, 116.
Printing abstract of conditions of sale of
land on the Neck, 184.
appropriation for, 25, 46, 202, 219,
235, 274.
article relative to speedy col-
lection of taxes, 77.
by-laws in newspapers, 389.
for regulation of trucks,
74.
handbills, 221.
laws, new edition of, 110.
names of committees, 52.
oration commemorative of the
anniversary of Independence,
1, 28, 50, 75, 111, 133, 155, 171,
190, 204, 221, 236.
Printing proposal for enlarging Faneui
Hall, 184.
regulations of the market, 43.
of report, 36, 53, 156, 174, 216,
223.
report, relative to flres, va-
grants, 113, 115.
report of selectmen, 101.
resolutions against embargo,
245.
resolutions on death of George
Washington, 78.
revised list of voters, 117.
schedule of town expenses, 70,
109, 131.
tax bills, 122.
town treasurer's account, 216.
Prison, State, 353.
Proclamation of President of United
States, 222, 241.
Procter (Proctor), Edward, 8, 24, 29, 49,
59, 79, 98, 117, 118, 126,
140, 141, JHO, 175, 178,
191, 196, 208, 212, 227,
231, 233, 246, 250,261,
265, 279, 284.
S., 251.
Providence, 319.
Public affairs, 316.
order, 324.
institutions, borrowing money
from, 354.
Purkett (Purkit, Purkitt), Capt. Henry,
11, 36, 63, 85, 100, 120, 143, 162, 177, 193,
210, 228, 247, 262, 281, 299, 324, 330.
Putnam, Jesse, 284.
Quincy, John W., 125.
Josiab, 41, 45, 50, 51, 70, 78, 81, 87,
95, 97, 103, 119, 141, 161, 165, 173,
176, 194, 305, 239, 278, 333.
Rainsford, Dea., 340.
Banger, Edmund, 11, 64, 82, 100.
Edward, 31.
Raynham, 172,
Records, town, 215.
Register of deeds, choice of, 96, 192, 281.
Regulations of the market, 37, 38, 42, 43.
Rents, 42, 46, 43, 106, 129, 134, 149, 184, 219,
304, 307, 313, 336.
Deer Island, 200.
Faneuil Hall, 286.
Haymarket, 200.
Market square, 200.
Old State House, 200, 286.
Salt Marsh, 200.
stalls in Market square, 200, 286.
Reports, 16, 17, 18.
of committees, 16, 36, 37, 41, 44, 45,
47, 48, 52, 53, ft*, 55, 56, 58, 64, 65,
70, 73, 77, 85, 88, 92, 106, 108, 109,
112, 114, 122, 125, 128, 131, 144,
148, 151, 154, 156, 158, 163, 168, 174,
179, 184, 186, 188, 194, 215, 216, 222,
223, 255, 253, 259, 267, 268, 269, 272,
274, 277, 278, 286, 294, 302, 303, 304,
305, 306, 307, 303, 309, 310, 312, 316,
320, 335, 339, 342, 344, 34H, 347, 351.
Representatives, 78, 103, 104, 105, 115, 116,
123,137,138,139,174, 189,
240, 252, 266, 284, 287, 316.
application of, 339.
choice of, 6. 7, 21, 22, 23,
40,51,69,89,103, 127, 135,
147,166,173,182.197,205,
213,232,239, 251, 278, 285,
311,327,334.
number of, increased,
181.
Reservoir, 41, 45.
Resolution on Baltimore riots, 321, 324.
Resolutions against embargo act, 240, 241,
242, 243, 244, 245.
372
CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Resolutions of Committee on Corre-
spondence, 222.
on Daniel Sargent, 316.
of Legislature, 54.
on threatened war with
England, 316, 318.
Revere, Col., 24, 34, 78.
Paul, 2, 44.
Rhoades (Rhodes), Jacob, 117, 138, 140,
233.
Rice, Benjamin, 215, 228.
John, 12, 247, 262.
Thomas, 172.
Rich, Benjamin, 280, 298, 329.
David, 210.
Richards, Joseph, 246, 261, 279, 298, 329.
Richardson, Jeffry, 12, 33, 62, 83, 99, 120,
142.
Richmond, 172.
Ricker, Martin, 13.
Riots, .method of suppressing, 324.
Ritchie, Andrew, 236.
Rivers, Charles, 224.
Road, petition to build turnpike, 340.
on Dam, 348, 349.
Robbins (Robins), Edward H., 38, 86, 102,
124, 165, 180, 196,211.
Edward J., 262, 281, 299, 330.
James, 11,31,82,100, 120.
Robinson, Edward Hutchinson, 145.
James, 232, 252, 266, 280, 285,
312, 334.
Rogers, D. D., 126.
Rogues, act for suppressing and punish-
ing, 352.
Ropewalks, 3, 14, 15, 84, 148, 153, 193, 194.
to rebuild, conditions of, 194.
Rosseter, David, 172.
Roulstone, John, 231.
Rowe, John, 90, 206.
Roxbury, 55, 84, 173, 348.
Canal, 148, 256, 267.
petition to build turnpike to,
340, 345, 347.
Ruggles, Samuel, 10.
Rumley, Edward, 12, 33, 63, 84, 100.
Rumney, Edward, 120, 143, 163, 177, 193.
Russell, Benjamin, 40, 68, 117, 119,167, 183,
197, 212, 214, 232, 252, 266, 285,
311, 326, 332, 334, 339.
Joseph, 4, 8, 11, 13, 21, 24, 25, 30,
32, 40, 41, 47, 60, 63, 69, 71, 78, 80,
82, 83, 87, 88, 89, 92, 94, 100, 103,
104, 105, 107, 117, 119, 121, 126, 127,
130, 136, 137, 138, 140, 143, 145, 147,
148, 150, 152, 153, 154, 159, 160, 163,
164, 165, 167, 168, 169, 170, 178, 184,
186, 193, 205,206,207, 210,214, 215,
220, 225, 226, 230, 235, 237, 246, 248,
252, 254, 255, 257, 259, 263, 272, 274.
Sarah, 90.
Thomas, 90.
Salaries or allowances, assessors, 25, 26,
46, 48, 71, 73, !«,
107, 132, 170, 179,
187, 203, 220,235,
275, S15, 337.
clerks of the
market, 42.
Clouston, Louis,
4.
collector of taxes,
10,32,61,81, 98,
132, 275, 315,
337, 346.
court, municipal,
judge of, 88,
220,235,274,295,
315, 337.
flrewards, 179.
Hammatt, Ben-
jamin, 67.
Salaries or allowances, Hunt, Samuel,
188.
Tate, James, 5.
Thwing, James,
schoolma s t e r s,
25, 46.
school ushers,
25, 46.
town clerk, 25,
26,47,71,92,107.
130,152,168,187,
220,235,275,295,
315,337.
town advocate,
88, 108, 131, 152,
169, 187, 203,
275, 295.
town treasurer,
25, 26,47, 71, 92,
107,132,170,187,
295,315,337,346.
town treasurer's
clerk, 275, 313.
town treasurer
and collector,
203, 221), 235, 275,
315, 346.
Salem, 171, 172.
Salt Marsh, income from, 200.
works on Deer Island, 136.
Sargeant (Sargent), Daniel, 22, 182, 197,
213, 232, 237, 244,
251, 252, 256, 257,
266, 283, 316, 324,
325, 334.
Henry, 287, 312, 324.
Ignatius, 208, 227,
232, 246, 261, 280,
298.
Savage, James, 285, 296, 312, 335.
Scavengers, 57.
Scarlet's wharf, 131.
School for African children, 315, 337.
new, to establish, 91, 144.
ushers, appropriation for, 25, 46,
219, 234.
writing in West Boston, 144.
committee, 15, 80, 91, 144, 188, 194,
261, 286, 332, 337.
carry new system of
education into oper-
ation, 9, 10, 31, 61, 81,
97, 119, 142, 161, 176,
192, 209, 228, 247, 261,
280, 299, 330.
choice of, 9, 23, 31, 60,
81, 85, 97, 119, 125, 141,
161, 176, 191, 208,216,
227, 229, 247, 261, 280,
299 330
dutie's of, 9, 10, 31, 61,
81, 97, 119, 142, 161,
176, 192, 209, 228, 247,
261, 280, 299, 330.
relative to Samuel
Hunt's petition, 24,
27.
report of, 144.
house, grant of land back of, 255.
to build new, 144.
masters, 184, 202, 203, 261, 273, 280,
299, 330.
appropriation for, 25, 46.
1806, 202.
1807, 219.
1808, 234.
1810, 273.
retired, pension for, 188.
Schools, appropriation for, 25, 46, 202, 219,
234.
grammar, 184.
in West Boston, 144.
Latin grammar, 24, 314, 315.
INDEX.
373
Schools, removal of Centre, 314.
repairs to, 273.
writing, 203, 314.
Scollay, William, 9, 30, 60, 80, 97, 118, 141,
161, 176,191,208.
Sconce, South Battery, 131.
Scott, James, 310.
Scribner's Monthly, 355.
Sea coast, protection of, 318.
Sealers of leather. (See Leather.)
Sears, David, 325.
Seaver (Sever), Ebenezcr^S, 29, 32, 33, 40,
59, 61, 80, 81, 96, 99, 123,
135, 142,151,161,176,192,
199, 209, 228, 247, 262, 280.
William, 112.
Sea wall, 194.
Sedgwick, Theodore, 211, 250, 264. 283, 301.
Selectmen, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14, 15,16,
17, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 27, 28,
31, 32, 33, 34, 37, 38, 40, 41, 42,
43, 44, 45, 47, 50, 52, 53, 55, 56,
60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 67, 69, 71, 72,
73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 80, 81, 84,
86, 89, 90, 94, 97, 98. 101, 102,
103, 104, 105, 107, 108, 110, 111,
113, 115, 116, 117, 119, 121, 122,
124, 127, 128, 130, 131, 132, 135,
136, 137, 139, 141, 142, 144, 145,
146, 149, 150, 153, 156, 157, 161,
163, 164, 166, 168, 169, 174, 176,
178, 179, 182, 183, 184, 185, 189,
191, 194, 195, 199, 205, 206, 208,
227, 229, 232, 238, 247, 249, 250,
251, 252, 255, 256, 257, 258, 260,
201, 264, 268, 271, 276, 277, 278,
279, 280, 282, 283, 284, 286, 287,
294, 295, 296, 297, 299, 304, 311,
313, 315, 320, 321, 326, 328, 329,
332, 338, 340, 341, 342, 345, 346,
351.
accounts of, to audit, 11, 32, 63,
83, 100, 121, 143, 163, 178.
appropriation for 1804, 168.
1805, 186.
1811, 294.
1812, 313.
1813, 336.
agents to defend town , 206, 215.
choice of, 8, 15, 23, 29, 44, 45, 59,
73, 79, 96, 118, 141, 147, 160, 175,
191, 194, 207, 220, 229, 246, 260,
279, 297, 326, 329.
convey land for new street,
178.
drafts of the, 47, 91, 106, 128,
130, 149, 151, 186, 218, 219, 273.
empowered to exchange town
land on mill pond, 255.
exempt from jury, 236.
give deeds of town's land on
Fort Hill, 185.
to give licenses, 295.
messengers, appropriation for
1806, 202.
1807, 219.
1808, 234.
notes, 201.
oath of, 211, 230, 250.
present petition to legislature,
243.
to make out list of all qualified
to vote, 23.
to regulate jury boxes, 205,
oos
Selfridge, Thomas O. , 211, 327.
Senate, 240, 241,341.
Senators, choice of, 19, 20, 23, 39, 68, 102,
124, 145, 165, 180, 196, 212, 231, 250, 264,
283, 301, 333.
Serreson, P. A., 39.
Sewers, 224, 326.
Shaw, Lemuel, 285, 31-2, 335.
R. G., 287. '
Shaw, S., 140.
William, 9.
Shephard, William, 172.
Sherburne, Thomas, 11.
William, 44, 52, 59, 72, 73, 79,
91, 96, 117, 118, 141.
Ships, Chesapeake, 222.
Leopard, 222.
Sign boards, 24, 26.
Sigorney (Sigourney), Andrew, 310, 312,
326, 335, 343, 344,
351.
Daniel, 30.
Elisha, 5, 104, 266.
John R., 10,32,59,
81, 99.
Simpson, Benjamin, 33.
Singleton, George, 11, 36, 63.
John, 262.
Skinner, 310.
Slaughter-house on the Neck, 16.
Sluiceways, 349.
Small-pox, inoculation for, 133.
Smink, Peter, 22.
Smith, Abiel, 15, 147, 165, 166, 167.
Benjamin, 126, 140, 191, 208, 227,
246,261,280,298,329.
John, 228, 248, 253, 262, 281, 299,
330.
Jonathan, 172.
Joseph, 117.
Samuel, 281, 299,344.
William, 8, 9, 21, 29, 31, 35, 40, 51, 52,
53, 59, 61, 69, 79, 81, 87, 89, 97,98,
103, 117, 118, 119, 141, 146, 147, 160,
161, 166,175, 176, 182, 189, 191, 192,
197, 202, 203, 208, 209, 213, 219, 220,
227, 232, 235, 246, 247, 252, 254, 260,
261, 266, 275, 279, 280, 285, 295, 298,
299, 300, 305, 310, 311, 313, 314, 315,
329, 330, 331, 334, 344, 351.
Snelling, Josiah, 117, 125, 126, 138, 140, 149,
162, 177, 192, 209, 229, 248, 248.
263, 282, 292, 293, 298, 300, 310,
331.
Samuel, 117, 118, 140, 141, 160, 175,
191, 208, 227, 246, 261, 279, 298,
329.
Somes, John, 13.
South Battery, 206.
Sconce, 131.
Boston, 174.
Boston bridge, 199, 256, 267.
street, 158, 174.
Spear, Gershom, 228, 248, 262, 281, 299, 330.
Spooner, William, 9, 2-2, 31, 40, 61, 80, 166,
182, 196, 212, 231, 250, 265, 333.
Sprague, Samuel, 300, 331.
Star chamber, 245.
State House, 6, 21 , 40, 52, 69, 89, 103, 104, 127,
146, 166, 182, 197, 213, 232.
Old, disposal of, 34, 51, 78,
136, 153.
rent, 200.
to be leased, conditions
of lease, 154, 249.
town's claim to, 117.
Prison, 114.
street, 6.
tax, 168, 186, 199, 200, 201, 203, 218,
234, 273.
treasurer, 10, 32, 62, 82, 98, 151, 186,
305.
treasury, 53.
Stationery, appropriation for, 46, 307.
1806, 202.
1807, 219.
1808, 235.
1810, 274.
1811, 307.
Staves and hoops, cullers of, choice of, 11,
63, 85, 100, 120, 143, 162, 177, 193, 210, 228,
247, 253, '262, 281, 299, 330.
Stearns, Josiah, 172.
374
CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Stetson, Thomas, 68.
Stevenson, Thomas, 10, 31, 63, 82, 99, 121,
•250.
Stillman, Samuel, 9, 31, 60, 69, 80, 145.
Stockbridge, 173.
Stodder, Joseph, 210, 228, 247, 262, 281, 299,
330.
Storer, Ebenezer, 134, 1.50, 152.
Storey, Joseph, 301.
Streets, abutters on. (See Abutters.)
appropriation for, 1806, 202.
1807, 219.
1808, 234.
1810, 274.
Ann, 2, 3, 13, 205.
along Canal, 350.
appropriation for paying, 25, 46.
Arch, 90.
Batlerymarch, 203.
suit to recover
land in, 206.
Beach, 71.
Brookline, 340.
Beacon, 348.
Cambridge, 129.
Centre, 1U5.
Common, 104.
Concord, 348.
Dedham, 348.
Derne, laud fronting on, 315.
Exchange lane, 287.
Pish, 132.
Fore, 287.
Franklin, 15.
Front, 178, 256, 267, 350.
Hampshire, 348.
Hutchinsou, to widen, 3.
Kitby, 159, 163.
land taken for new, 178.
leading to South Boston bridge,
289.
Leverett, wharf at end of, 282.
Merchants Row, 202.
Middlecot, 90.
Middlesex, 348.
new, laid out, 90, 224, 255, 349.
Northampton, 348.
on either side of Canal, 350.
Orange, 165, 178, 348, 350.
disposal of land between,
and So. Boston Bridge,
293.
petition for new, 6, 104, 106.
Pleasant, 53, 121.
Plymouth, 91.
Pond, 90, 229.
School, application for grant
on, to build court-house, 255.
School, School-house in, 315.
sign posts at corner of, 24, 26.
Snow Hill, title to, 257.
South, 158, 174.
South Bridge, 348.
State, 6.
Suffolk, 348.
Summer, 90.
Vincents alley, 6.
Washington, 185, 348,349,350.
sluiceway across, 349.
Water, 159,163,206.
to widen, 105, 203.
widening, allowance for, 76.
Worcester, 348.
Strong, Caleb, 86, 102. 124, 145, 164, 180, 196,
211, 231, 301, 333, 342.
Stuart, Gilbert, 194, 355.
Jane, 355.
Sturbridge, 173.
Sturgis, Russell, 8, 21, 29, 30, 33, 39, 40, 52,
59, 60, 70, 79, 80, 91, 96, 97, 103,
104, 105, 117, 118, 119, 123, 127,
136, 141, 147, 167, 181, 196, 201,
212, 231, 233, 250, 265, 283, 301,
333.
Sturgis, Samwel, 117, 140.
Stutson, Amasa, 205, -Jlt>.
John, 64.
Major, 179.
Thomas, )43.
Suffolk County, 20, 39, 54, 57, 68, 69, 87,
102, 107, 124, 125, 136,
145, 146, 153, 1(55, 168,
174, 180, 196, 199, 211,
219, 231, 250, 265, 270,
273, 283, 284, 301, 307,
„ 325, 334, 339.
register of deeds, choice
of, 96, 192.
Sheriff of, 136,205,239.
treasurer, choice of, 9,
32, 61, 80, 96, 123, 142,
161, 176, 192, 209, 228,
247, 298.
district of, 135, 171, 172, 205, 239.
Suit, against Town, 282.
Sullivan, George, 301, 324.
James, 14, 18, 19, 20, 38, 39, 76, 77,
112, 159, 164, 167, 169, 172, 180,
196, 211, 212, 231.
John L., 90.
Judge, 72, 73. 119, 155, 163.
Richard, 301, 33S, 335.
Thomas, 32, 62, 83.
William, 155, 166, 182, 191, 197,
208, 213, 227, 240, 246, 251, 252,
261, 265, 266, 280, 284, 285, 298,
301, 324, 325, 327, 329, K33, 334,
350.
Summer street, 90.
Sumner, Benjamin, 125, 126, 143, 152, 161,
176, 187, 189.
Charles P., 211, 301.
Col., 32 L.
Increase, 19, 20, 38, 68.
Samuel, 117, 140.
S. W.,126.
Thomas W., 183, 197, 214, 232,
252, 266, 285, 340.
William H., 232, 252, 266, 285,
312, 316, 327, 334.
Sureties, bonds to be given as, 10, 32, 62,
82, 98.
Surveyors of boards. (See Boards.)
hemp. (See Hemp.)
highways. (See High ways.)
wheat. (See Wheat.)
Sweet, Samuel, 140, 214, 227, 246.
Sweetser, John, 8, 20, 22, 29, 39, 59, 79, 98.
S \vett, Samuel, 261, 280.
Swing bridge, 2, 3.
Tate, James, 4, 5.
Taxes, abatement of, 10, 32, 46, 70, 81, "1,
98, 128, 135, 234, 255, 273.
County, 168, 186, 199, 200, 201, 203,
218, 234, 287.
deduction for prompt payment,
123.
State, 168, 186, 199, 200, 201 , 203, 218,
234.
statement of, 61, 294.
to defray expenses of town, 25,46,
47, 71, 92, 107, 130, 152, 168, 187,
203, 220, 235, 274, 312, 335.
collectors of, accounts of, 25, 46.
allowance to, 10, 32,
61, 81, 98, 132, 295.
choice of, 11, &5, 62,
82. 99, 123, 260, 279,
343.
give bond, 10, 32, 62,
81, 98, 124, 261.
make returns once a
year, 123.
moneys due from, 46,
70, 92.
of, premiums, 10, 32, 46,
62, 81, 98.
INDEX.
375
Taxes, poll, 25, 47, 71, 92, 107, 130, 152, 168,
187, 203, -2-20, 235, 265, 274, 294, 313,
337.
real estate, 25, 47, 71, 92, 107, 130,
152, 168, 187, 203, 220, 235, 274, 294,
303 310 31'^ 337
Thacher (Thatcher)",' Peter, 208, 221, 231,
256, 262.
Peter <J., 326.
Peter O., 330, 332,
347.
Rev. Dr., 19, 86, 297.
Thayer, Ephraim, 252, 266, 285, 312, 334.
Moses, 121,162.
Richard, 262, 281, 299, 330.
Samuel M., 266, 280, 285, 298, 312,
329, 335, 341.
Seth, 205, 216.
Stephen, 212.
Ziba, 228, 248.
Thompson, 151.
I., 106.
James, 11, 25, 35, 46, 62, 70, 82,
92, 106, 129, 150, 152.
William, 2, 51.
Thorndlke, Israel, 301, 316, 333.
John P., 340.
Thwing, James, 4.
Ticknor, Elisha, 184, 328.
Mr., 178.
Tid, T., 126.
Tidmarsh, Nathaniel, 11, 31, 64.
Tilden, Bryant P., 227, 230, 246, 261, 279,
280, 298, 329, 344, 346, 351.
David, 8, 22, 29, 59, 79, 91, 93, 96,
103, 104, 105, 116, 117, 118, 124,
127, 139, 140, 141, 146, 147, 160,
165, 167, 175, 181, 191, 196, 207,
212, 226, 229, 231, 233, 250, 259,
265, 270, 276, 278, 283, 301, 310,
333.
Joseph, 280, 292, 293, 298, 310, 312,
314, 324, 329, 335.
Tileston, John, 45, 60, 73, 79, 91, 96, 117,
118,141, 160, 175, 191, 208, 212.
Tisdale, James, 9, 30.
Tombs, 277.
in Granary burying-ground, 257.
Topkins, Rev. Mr., 117.
Town advocate, choice of, 88, 98, 120, 142,
162, 176, 192, 208, 262,
281.
salary of, 108, 131, 152,
169, 187, 203, 219, 257,
295.
book, statements of treasurer
recorded in, 202,355.
clerk, 5, 7, 8, 9, 24, 32, 47, 51, 61, 68,
80, 87, 91, 96, 102, 116, 117,
123, 125, 142, 176, 211, 228,
230, 247, 250, 258, 259, 262,
269, 273, 280, 310, 327, 331,
338, 341, 346, 354.
additional allowance to, 184,
203.
appropriation for, 1806, 202.
1807,219.
1808, 234.
1810, 273.
1812, 315.
Choice of, 8, 29, 59, 79, 96, 118,
140, 160, 175, 190, 207, 226,
246, 259, 279, 297.
salary, 25, 26, 46, 47, 71, 92,
107, 130, 152, 168, 187, 220,
235, 268, 275, 295, 315, 337.
contract with Boston Mill Corpora-
tion, 223, 224.
debit and credit of the, 25, 46, 70,
91, 92, 106, 128, 129, 130, 149, 150,
168, 186, 198, 218, 219, 234, 272, 273,
288, 335.
dock, 13, 34,51, 71, 128, 131.
to cleanse, 56.
Town, division of, into wards, 189.
expenses of current year, 25, 46, 71,
92.
tax to defray, 25, 46,
47, 71, 92, 107, 130,
152,168,187,203,220,
235, 274, 294, 312,
335.
financial affairs, report of com-
mittee, 122, 302.
Indictment against, 282.
lamps, 14, 52, 53, 130.
appropriation for, 25, 46,
202, 219, 234.
to be lighted, 56.
land. (See Land.)
on Kilby street, to release,
163.
meetings, 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 15, 16, 19,
20, 23, 26, 27, 28, 30,
33, 36, 37, 38, 39, 41,
45. 49, 50, 51, 52, 55,
58, 62, 65, 67, 68, 69,
70, 72, 75, 76, 77, 78,
79, 83, 85, 86, 87, 88,
90, 91, 93, 94, 96, 98,
101, 103, 104, 105, 109,
110, 111,112, 113, 116,
117, 118, 121, 123, 124,
125, 126. 127, 131, 132,
133. 134, 185, 136, 137,
138, 139, 140, 142, 144,
145, 146, 147, 149, 153,
155, 166, 157, 158, 159,
160, 163, 164, 165, 166,
167, 169, 170, 171, 173,
174, 175, 179, 180, 181,
182, 183, 184, 187, 188,
189, 190, 191, 194, 195,
196, 198, 203, 204, 205,
207, 208, 210, 213, 214,
215, 217, 220, 221, 222,
223, 225, 226, 229, 230,
232', 233, 235, 236, 237,
238, 239, 240, 245, 249,
251, 252, 255, 256, 257,
25S, 260, 264, 265, 266,
275, 276, 278, 279, 283,
284, 285, 296, 297, 300,
302, 311, 312, 315, 320,
321, 326, 327, 328, 329,
332, 334, 335, 340, 344,
347.
moneys, to place on interest, 3.
pension schoolmaster, 188.
police, 43, 72, 112.
appropriation for, 1806,202.
1807, 219.
1808, 234.
1810,273.
portrait of Washington presented
to, 194.
records, 215.
relinquish all claim to Mill Pond,
217.
conditions of, 223, 224.
remit fine, 84.
security of, 112, 113, 115, 116, 137.
suit against, agents to defend,
206.
sum necessary to defray expenses
of, 25.
to re move strangers from, 112,116.
treasurer, 10, 24, 32, 62, 119, 131,
253, 260, 272, 273, 286,
287, 292, 308, 309, 339.
accounts of, 25, 70, 106,
128, 129, 130,
14'.), 150, 151,
152, 168, 186,
198, 199, 200,
201,218,234,
264, 271, 294,
304.
376
CITY DOCUMENT No. 115.
Town treasurer, accounts of, to audit, 32,
63, 70, 83, 100,
121, 128, 134,
143, 150, 163,
178, 187, 193,
210, 248, 263,
272, 282, 294,
300, 312, 331,
339, 346, 351.
authorized to borrow
money for new alma-
house, 66, 111, 112.
authorized to borrow
money for use of
Board of Health, 72,
93, 108, 132.
authorized to borrow
money t o enlarge
Faneuil Hall, 185.
authorized to borrow
money t o pay for
land and buildings
taken, 132.
bond from Aqueduct
Corporation, 45.
choice of, 8, 9, 29, 61,
80, 97, 123, 260, 279,
•298, 310, 331 .
chosen collector, duty
of, 122.
drafts of, 47, 179, 186.
money due for sale of
land on which alms-
house stands, 65.
money, on interest, 2.
money paid S. Brown,
106.
money paid by town
to Louis Clouston, 4.
money paid by town
to James Tate, 5.
money paid by town
to James Thwing, 4.
salary, 25, 26, 46, 47, 71,
92, 107, 132, ]70, 187,
*75, 295, 315, 337, 343,
346.
to issue notes, 121, 124,
131.
to pay expenses of
Board of Health,
58.
and county treasurer,
office of, not united,
122.
and collector, appro-
priation for, 1806, 202.
1807, 219.
1808, 234.
1810, 273.
1812, 346.
and collector, choice
of, 134, 143, 161, 176,
189, 192, 209, 227, 246,
279, 331.
and collector, salary
of, 203, 220, 235, 275,
295, 315, 337, 346.
watch, 24, 115.
appropriation for, 25, 46,
202, 219, 234, 273.
Townsend, Alexander, 275, 285, 301, 312.
Andrew, 27, 39, 41, 64, 82, 99.
David, 9, 15, 22, 167, 181, 196,
212, 233, 265, 284, 301.
Moses, 328.
Treasurer, State, 10, 32, 62, 82, 98, 151, 186.
Town. (See Town.)
Treasury, State, money allowed for artil-
lery, 53.
Town, 10, 32, 62, 82, 98, 153, 218,
298,351.
Treat, Samuel, 125, 143, 162, 177.
Trench, John, 82.
Troops, Artillery company, 53, 73.
standing army, 245.
Trott, George, 1*9, 152.
Trucks, law regulating, 53, 74.
Truman, John, 117, 140.
Trustees, for land on neck, choice of, 105,
167,183,198,216,233,252.
town's land on the neck, 1 05, 108,
148, 107,
183, 184,
206.
money
due to,
294.
in vest
proceeds
o f sale
of, 185.
Tucker, Joseph, 281, 299, 330.
Nathaniel, 36.
Tuckerman, Abraham, 10, 31, 64, 82, 99.
Edward, 12, 33, 62, 83, 99, 120,
138, 142, 148, 162, 177, 183,
192, 197, 198, 209, 213, 214,
2-29, 233, 248, 252, 263, 282,
300, 331, 347.
Isaac, 14.
Tudor, 307.
William, 39, 40, 52, 56, 70, 89, 102,
105, 124, 128, 145, 148, 157, 165, 239,
251, 255, 256, 265, 266.
Tufts, Cotton, 172.
Tukesbury (Tewksbury), Andrew, 106,
128, 129, 150.
William, 201,
218, 234, 253.
Turner, 173.
Charles, 173.
Elisha, 177, 193.
Turnpike on Boston neck, 156.
Tuttle, Daniel, 327.
Turell, 340.
Twist, Solomon, 121.
Tythingmen, choice of, 15, 22, 23.
Union bank, 2, 3, 92, 107, 112, 130, 150, 151,
186, 201, 287, 306.
United States, attack on, by British, 222.
President of, 323.
Uphain, Edward, 172.
Uran, James, 247.
Ushers, appropriation for, 25, 46, 219, 234.
Volunteers, 245.
Voters, list of, 19, 23, 139.
to revise, 117.
Votes for assessors, 93.
elector of the President and
Vice-President.7, 171, 172, 173,
328.
governor, lieutenant-governor,
and senators, 19, 20, 38, 39, 68,
86, 87, 102, 124, 145, 164, 180, 181,
196, 211, 231, 250, 264, 283, 301,
333.
register of deeds, 96, 192, 281.
representatives, 7, 21, 22, 40, 51,
69, 89, 103, 127, 135, 147, 166, 173,
182, 197, 205, 213, 233, 239, 251,
265, 278, 285, 311, 327.
selectmen, 73, 147, 229,260.
town treasurer and collector,
189, 209, 279.
treasurer of Suffolk County, 61,
80, 96, 123, 142, 161, 176, 192, 228,
247, 262, 280, 310.
Voting, qualifications for, 23, 24.
Waldo, Benjamin, 107, 130,150.
Walker, John, 328.
Walley, S. H.,301.
Thomas, 8, 12, 13, 14.
Walsh, Thomas, 141.
Walter, Lynde, 285, 312, 334, 340.
INDEX.
377
Walter, Rev. Dr., 50.
William, 1-26, 154, 252, 266.
War, 241, 243, 316, 317, 318, 319, 321, 322,
335.
Ward, Artemas, 285, 325, 327.
Warrants, 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 13, 14, 19, 21, 22, 23,
24, 27, 28, 29, 34, 35, 38, 40, 41, 44, 49, 50,
51, 52, 53, 55, 57, 58, 67, 69, 70, 71, 72 "73,
' 75, 76, 78, 79, 84, 86, 87, 89, 90, 91, 94, 96,
100, 102, 103, 104, 110, 111, 113; 116, 117,
121, 124, 126, 127, 128, 132, 133, 134, 135,
136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 145, 146, 147, 148,
153, 154, 155, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, 163,
164, 165, 166, 167, 170, 171, 173, 174, 175,
178, 179, 180, 181, 182, 183, 188, 189, 190,
193, 195, 196, 198, 204, 205, 206, 207, 210,
211,213, 214, 215, 221, 2->2, 225, 226, 230,
232,233, 237. 239, 240, 245, 249, 250, 251,
252, 256, 257, 258, 260, 263, 264, 266, 268,
269, 276, 279, 282, 283, 284, 291, 296, 297,
312, 315, 320, 321, 325, 326, 327, 329, 332,
335, 340, 344, 347, 351.
Warren, James, 172.
John, 35, 36, 212, 222, 325.
John O., 326,330.
Joseph, 34, 178, 240.
Washington, George, 78, 194, 355.
George, death of, resolu-
tions, 78.
George, portrait of, given
to town, 194, 355.
street, 185.
Watch. (See Constables.)
house, 115.
town, 24, 115.
town, appropriation for, 25, 46,
202, 219, 234.
Watercourse, 206.
Water street, 159, 163, 206.
Waters, Col., 34, 35, 117.
Josiah, 35.
Watertown, 348.
Wear, John, 39.
Weatherley ( Wetherly), Joshua, 12, 33, 62.
Webb, Nathan, 126, 229, 246, 252, 260, 261,
266, 279, 280, 285, 297, 298, 312, 328,
329, 334.
Thomas, 250.
Webster, Bedford, 8, 29, 59, 80, 93, 118,126,
141, 160, 175, 183, 191, 197, 208, 213, 218,
227, 246, 257, 261, 268, 279, 292, 293, 298,
310, 329. 340, 351.
Welch (Welsh), Thomas, 9, 31, 60, 81, 97,
119, 161, 176, 191, 208, 212, 227, 247, 261,
280, 299, 330.
Weld, Benjamin, 246, 252, 260, 266, 274, 279,
284, 285, 287, 297, 312, 321, 326, 328, 329,
333, 334, 340, 342, 344.
Welles (Wells), Arnold, 8, 9, 14, 18, 20,
21, 29, 31, 40, 59, 61, 68, 80, 81, 97,
98, 101, 104, 112, 116, 117, 119, 137,
140, 141, 161, 176, 191, 208, 227, 237,
247, 261, 276, 280, 284, 299, 325, 332,
333
John', 12, 33, 62, 83, 100, 117, 120, 142,
162, 166, 177, 182, 192, 197, 209,212,
213, 215, 216, 229, 231, 232, 248,250,
263, 265, 266, 270, 272, 282, 283,300,
301,331,333,337.
Samuel, 3.
William, 330.
Welsh, Jacob, 252, 266. •
Wendall (Wendell), Oliver, 20, 39, 41, 68,
72, 73, 78, 87, 102, 124, 145, 165, 171, 180,
206, 212.
West, David, 252.
West, Samuel, 9, 31, 58, 60, 81, 97, 119, 125
Boston, 37, 144.
erection of ropewalks at,
14, 15.
Indies, 72, 73.
Springfield, 172.
Wharf, Long, 56.
Pitts, 44.
Scarlets, 131.
Spears, 56.
Woodward's, 64.
Wharves, erection of, 257.
for removing of filth, 295.
Wheat, surveyors of, choice of, 12, ?3, 62,
83, 99, 120, 142, 162, 177, 192, 209, 229, 248,
263, 281, 300, 331.
Wheeler, Capt., 140.
William, 83, 99, 120, 142.
Wheelock, Abijah, 62.
Wheelwright, Job, 36, 63,
White, Benjamin, 11, 12, 30, 33, 62, 64, 82,
83, 99, 100, 120, 142, 143, 152, 162,
177, 192, 193, 209, 210, 228, 247,248,
262, 281, 299, 330.
Samuel, 10, 31, 63, 82, 99, 121.
Whiting, Jabez, 301.
John, 173.
Whitman, Benjamin, 197,214, 232, 252, 266,
284, 285, 312, 334, 342, 343, 344.
Zachariah G., 283.
Whitney, Jonathan, 285, 312, 335, 340.
Whitwell, Samuel, 24, 34, 117.
William, 30, 301.
Wilby, Francis, 301.
Wild"( Wilde), Abel, 149.
Jonathan, 301.
Samuel S., 172*
Wilds, Major, 72, 73.
Will of the late Thomas Boylston, 76, 77.
Williams, John D.,298, 329.
Robert, 326, 328, 329.
Winchester, Samuel, 230.
Winnisimmet Ferry, 85.
Winslow, Col., 24, 35.
Isaac, 292, 293, 298, 310, 341.
John, 9, 30, 60, 76, 78, 80, 97, 105,
116, 117, 118, 119, 126, 128, 129,
137, 138, 140, 141, 143, 144, 148,
153, 161, 167, 176, 179, 182, 183,
191, 197, 198, 208, 212, 213, 214,
227, 233, 246, 252, 261, 266, 276,
278, 280, 298, 310, 329, 331.
Winthrop, James, 172.
John, 8, 20, 22, 30, 60, 70.
Thomas L., 333.
Wiscasset, 172.
Wood, boards, surveyors of. (See Boards.)
building with, 13, 138, 139.
sealers of, choice of, 14.
Woodman, John, 173.
Woodward, Mr., 48.
Worcester district, 172, 173,
AVorkhouse, petition to establish, 351.
report of committee on, 113,
114.
town empowered to build,
352.
(See, also, Almshouse.)
Wright, Francis, 117, 147, 160, 175, 183, 191,
197, 207, 213, 226, 246, 252, 260,
266, 279, 285, 297, 304, 326.
T., 126.
York district, 172, 173.
Young, Alexander, 68.
William, 231.
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