UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH Darlington ^Niemorial J_/ibrary ^^U.4= ^'^^_ m :^^-^ ^1 ""Our. 1/ AUTHENTIC HISTORICAL MEMOIR OF THE SCKUYLKZLL FISHIXG COMPANY OF THE State in ScftuslfetlL FROM ITS ESTABLISHMENT ON THAT ROMANTIC STREAM, JVEAR PHILADELPHIA, IN THE YEAR 1732, TO THE PRESENT TIME. BY A MEMBER. " If you look to its antiquity, it is most ancient,— If to its dignity, it is most honorable— If to Ms jurisdiction, it is most extensive." PHILADELPHIA: PUBLISHED BY JUDAH DOBSON. 1830. :s^^l EMteni District of Pennsylvania, to wit: BE IT REMEMBERED, that, on tiie nineteenth day of April, in the fifty-fourth year of the Independence of the United States of America, A. D. 1830, JuDAH DoBsoN, of the said district, hath deposited in this office the title of a book, the right whereof he claims as proprietor, in the words fol- lowing, to wit ;— " An Authentic Historical Memoir of the Schuylkill Fishing Company, of the State in Schuylkill. From its establishment on that romantic stream, near Philadelphia,' in the year 1732, to the present time. By a Member. ' If you look to its antiquity, it is most ancient— If to its dignity, it is most honorable — If to its jurisdiction, it is most e.xtensive.' " In conformity to the act of the Congress of the United States, entitled " An Act for the encouragement of learning, by securing the copies of maps, charts, and books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies, during the times therein mentioned"— And also to the Act, entitled "An Act supplementary to an Act, entitled, ' An Act for the encouargement of learning, by securing the copies of maps, charts, and books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies during the times therein mentioned,' and extending the benefits thereof to the arts of designing, engraving, and etching historical and other prints." D. CALDWELL, Clerk of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. GOVERNOR, COUNCIL, AND CITIZENS, OF THE State in ScfiuglfeiU, THIS HISTORICAL MEMOIR Which you have been pleased to honor with the encouraging voice of unanimous approba- tion, is with permission respectfully dedicated, by your Friend and Fellow Citizen, THE AUTHOR. INTRODUCTION. The present unpretending Historical Sketch of the " Schuylkill Fishing Company ,^^ derives whatever of in- terest it possesses from its locality and its origin in prim- itive colonial times, amongst our independent liberal mind- ed ancestors, associated for laudable recreative objects. The cement of their durable and happy union w^as formed of those sound principles and rules of social order and correct deportment, characteristic of our virtuous fore- fathers. They built upon a sure foundation, and exhibited the singularly novel spectacle of a pleasurable Institution, well governed and prosperous beyond human calculation, in the assumed dignity, form and feature of an Indepen- dent political Commonwealth. Their admirable Constitution, was held sacred and in- violable. Their Laws, Statue or Common, unvacillating. Changes were infrequent, and only made with great deliberation, in adaptation to altered times and circumstances. Thus they nobly inculcated an invaluable lesson of en- lightened wisdom and just administration, to the political INTRODTCTION. governments around them, acting in more extended and important spheres, worthy of all imitation and all praise. The title of this little volume sufficiently imports its circumscribed contents; it is not our intention to give in- struction in the art of fishing. It would be a task unde- zired and unprofitable to the. present generation. The theory and practice of it is every where known, especial- ly throughout our river intersected Continent. The sub- ject early attracted the attention of the Literati, and was even thought worthy the notice of the fair. The Book of St. Albans so called, by Juliana Berners, a'lady of noble family and prioress oif the nunnery of Sop- well near St. Alban's England, was printed in 1486, and contains the first known treatise on fishing, extant. It is therein ranked as pre-eminent to the diversions of hunting, hawking, and fowling, which are considered by the pious authoress as attended with inconveniences and disappoint- ments; whereas in fishing, if his sport fail him, the angler she quaintly remarks, " Atte the leest hath his holsom walke, and mery at his ease, a swete ayre of the swete sauowre of the meede floures, that makyth him hungry; he hereth the melodyous armony of foules; and whiche me seemyth better than alle the noyse of houndys, the blastes of hornys, and the scrye of foules that hunters, fawkeners and foulers can mayke." " And if the angler take fysshe, surely thenne is there noo man merier than he is in his spyryte. " Moreover in the pious simplicity of ancient days, an- gling was looked on as auxiliary to contemplation, and hence it obtained high favor as a means of recreation with devout persons. Independently of its recommendation as in vogue in the apostolic ages, it was sanctioned at a later period of the christian era in practice, by the pious learned Doctor Wm. Perkins and Doctor Wm. Whitaker, both ancient divines of the last of the sixteenth century; by the venerable Doc- tor Alexander Nowell, Dean of St. Pauls', in VI Ed- ward's reign 1561, and by the learned and celebrated Pro- INTRODUCTION. vost of Eton College, Sir Henry Wotten in the reign of James I. who thus commends the art of angling after the labor of study, as " a rest to his mind, a chearer of his spirits, a diverter of sadness, a calmer of unquiet thoughts, a moderator of passions, a procurer of contentedness; that it begat habits of peace and patience in those that possessed and practised it. " It was loved cherished and practised with uncommon ardor and assiduity by the venerable and good Mr. Isaac Walton, emphatically called " The common father of all anglers^^^ until his decease in December 1783, at an age exceeding four score and ten. In 1653, he compiled and published his celebrated " Complete Angler or contempla- tive man^s recreation,'^ to which his adopted son Charles Cotton, Esq. added a valuable supplement. J. Barker, Esq. who angled for sixty years, and Col. R. Venables polished works of good repute. Several modern authors of celebrity have contributed to instruct us in piscatory amusements; after all, it will be found that proficiency is only to be obtained by patience and long practice. Walton compares '■^angling to the virtue of humility, which has a calmness of spirit, and a world of other bles- sings attending upon it.^' If it be conceded to have these salutary effects, opera- ting like a panacea to the wearied mind, an occasional resort to it, as a harmless pastime and relaxation, is both wise and worthy of all commendation and adoption by the sedentary student, or care oppressed man of industi-y in business, as essentially contributary to happiness and length of days. It is some evidence of it to learn that Doctor Nowell lived to fill the measure of ninety-five years, blessed with unimpaired faculties of mind and body, attributed by himself, to "angling and temperance." Sir Henry Wotton lived to see upwards of seventy-one years, and Doctors Perkins and Whitaker both lived to very advanced ages; descending to our own times, and approaching our own worthy anglers and officers of celeb- rity the several Governors of the Fishing Company, INTJiODUCTION. them arriving to a happy patriarchal age, blessed with, mens sana in corpore sano, and all beyond the ordinary boundaries of life, prescribed by divine wisdom. The Fishing Company so substantially founded and ably maintained, under their auspices, in their respective successive periods of paternal good government, exists and flourishes in admirable vigor by in the titled territo- ry of the ^^ State in Schnylkill,^^ on the border of our beau- tiful stream, an honored monument of pristine days, and a cherished felicitous association of the present. To the stranger especially, the unusual spectacle of the ani- mated scenic group assembled on a fishing day at the Cas tie, imparts mingled sensations of surprise and pleasure, which can only be estimated or realized by a personal vi- sit. The reality cannot be imagined, or duly appreciated. To cynic minds insensible of rational enjoyments, we have no disposition to appeal; and these pages to them we premise, are disrelishing and can neither partially obtain favor, or be productive of a moment's interest. Any approbation of its merits, if awarded, must spring from a pure, disinterested, unprejudiced source. The liberal minded reader, in a kind spirit of generous indulgence, we trust may at least cheeringly smile, on our humble endeavour to entertain him with unsubstantial Fishing Company Fare, entertaining ourselves, a confi- dent and pleasing assurance that the solid reality at the Castle, could not fail abundantly to gratify every sense. HISTORY OF THE SCHUYLKILL FISHING COMPANY. Institutions for the purposes of conviviality and exercise, have generally in all countries, experienced a brief exist- ence. The era of their forraation, career, decline and extinc- tion, is comprised within the space of a very few fleeting years, seldom extending beyond the lives or membership of their zealous founders. It is a subject of regret in respect to many of them at least, laudable in design and efficient in practice, promo- tive of healthful exercise and innocent recreation. A de- lightful occasional relief from the stern cares and toil of business. When judiciously established and regulated, they have a direct tendency to liberalize the mind and improve the manners. By the habit of friendly social in- tercourse of man with his fellow man, the generous feel- ings of the human heart are cherished and promoted. Very few of these ephemeral institutions, have trans- mitted to us any memorials of their proceedings in days that have long since passed away, to revive pleasurable events in the recollections of surviving members and as- sociates, or to interest the present or future generations, by reminiscences of an entertaining historical character. The observation peculiarly applies to our own social in- stitutions, originating as most of them did in our national infancy, by emigrants to the land of freedom, froni for- eign climes. Withoutany invidious distinction of country or religion, they amalgamated like brethren in a bond of harmonious intercourse, and consecrated the social union, by the cultivation and exercise of friendly offices and dispositions, in the ordinary pursuits of life. In a newly settled colony, sparsely populated, or its settlers scattered, men of trade or business are in some measure dependent on each other in ordinary dealing. Mutual assistance and patronage, usually results in mutual convenience and ben- efit. Prosperity crowned honest industry, and wealth and happiness were dift'used through the land . An honorable spirit of independence then prevailed amongst our high minded ancestors, who afterwards became the conserva- tors, defenders and preservers, of the national blessings we enjoy. When by their heroic exertions the colonial bonds were cancelled, many were the friendly associa- tions pre-existing in the times of peace, which survived not the storms of war. From various causes they ceased longer to exist, from the turbulence of the times, the in- vasion of our country, and the consequent dispersion of associates destined never to meet again. Few rallied under the same social banner, to converse with old and valued friends of the jovialty of former days, and of the exploits and fate of the absent, engaged in the cause of their country during the mighty and unequal conflict of arms. This establishment however, founded not long after the settlement of Pennsylvania, has flourished in full vigor in the romantic solitudes of the river Schuylkill, and continues to flourish unnoticed and almost unknown, even to the citizens of the capital at this day. It is now purposed to record, for the especial perusal of those who may feel interested in the reci-eative amuse- ments of our worthy forefathers, the primitive civilized settlers, neighbours and friends of the aborigines — an ac- count of the origin, design and prosperous career, of the most ancient and highly respectable Social Society, ex- isting in the United States. Unique in its nature and character, it is as unequalled in its permanency, as it ever has been unsurpassed in the success of its sportive citizens, and their general respec- tability, as members of the community. "The Schuylkill Fishing Company of the State in Schuylkill," is the present adopted charter name, receiv- ed on the declaration of its Independence. It was founded by the name of" The Colony in Schyl- kill,^^ in the year 1732, by a few of the original settlers, many of them emigrants with Penn to the new woild, residents in and near the young and thinly inhabited City of Philadelphia. The Colonial Hall, in which the meetings of the young colonists were held, was judiciously selected in a wood, bordering the western bank of the meandering stream, on the estate of William Warner, an amiable and worthy member of the respectable society of Friends. His estate now called " ^ao-/e.s^e/(Z," successively since the property of Mr. Robert E. Griffith, recently of Mr. Richard Rundle, and now the elegant seat of Mr. J. J. Borie, is situated between " Solitude,'^ (Penn's Estate) and " Sweet Briar, ^^ the seat of Samuel Breck, Esq. about one mile above Fair Mount Water Works. This well chosen and retired spot, comprising within its fenced boundaries about an acre of ground, was in the peaceful occupancy of the company, until the year 1822, an eventful period of ninety years ; when the damming of the river below at Fair Mount, destroyed the perch and rock fishing, and obliged them reluctantly to leave their much loved primitive domain, and emigrate with the finny tribe to the south, on the shores of Tide Water, near Rambo's Rock, opposite Bartram's celebrated Bo- tanical Gardens. In 1732 the clearings were few between the rising city of Penn, and the retreat of the new Colony in Schuylkill. A dense forest of majestic timber, the growth of ages, covered the whole western scite of the city plot, from its centre, and extended far and wide to the west, the north and the south. These woods were tenanted by the nimble grey squirrel, and rabbit, and frequently pheasants, par- tridges, woodcock, plover, snipe and other game of the feathered creation were found in abundance. Our worthy sportsmen improved the glorious opportunity so conveni- ently presented, almost at their own doors, and the fowl- ing piece and faithful dog, were the inseparable compan- ions of many members, on their occasional trips to their favorite little territory on the banks of Schuylkill. As the best evidence of the good fowling in olden times, and of the merry mood of the colonists, a faithful copy of an official warrant, bearing date in 1744 is preserved and transmitted to us, amongst the few scattered and imperfect original documents existing, and is worth recording in this place. Colony of Schuylkill, ss. To and all other Schuylkillians ivhom it may concern. WHEREAS great quantities of rabbits, squirrels, pheasants, partridges, and others of the game kind, have presumed to infest the coasts and territories of Schuylkill, in a wild, bold and ungovernable manner; THESE are therefore to authorize and require you, or any of you to make diligent search for the said rabbits, squirrels, phea- sants, partridges and others of the game kind, in all sus- pected places where they may be found, and bring the respective bodies of so many as you shall find, before the Justices, &c. at a general Court to be held on Thursday, the fourth day of October next, there to be proceeded against, as by the said court shall be adjudged: and for your or any of your so doing, this shall be your sufficient warrant. Witness, myself, the twenty -ninth day of Sep- tember, in the twelfth year of my Government, and year of our Lord, one thousand seven hundred and forty -four. [L. S.] THOMAS STRETCH. It was the invariable custom of the colonists to hold two stated meetings in each year for business purposes — the one in March, and the other in October, these meetings were all essential to the prosperity and permanency of the Government. The stated and first gala day of the sporting season was held on the first of May, and meetings for fishing and fowling were established, and now continue to be held on Thursdays, once every two weeks, until the election in the month of October, when the season terminates. The stability of the institution was early secured, by the adoption of a well digested code of salutary rules and regulations, which were implicitly obeyed or rigidly en- forced. They likewise adopted a common seal, for the impress of official proceedings, which is preserved and is now in use. The Genius of Freedom ever extended her protecting wings over the rising colony in Schuylkill. Liberty was cradled and nourished in her bosom. Its existence is co- eval with the settlement of her territory. It is stamped on every legislative act, down to the period of American emancipation, from foreign thraldom, in which it appears her gallant sons, actively and nobly participated. The inhabitants of the new colony in Schuylkill exem- plified in practice, the disbelieved and contemned theory, that business and pleasure may be handmaids under pro- per regulations and restrictions. Both amicably associa- ted and their judicious blending, at no period terminated unprofitably or disadvantageously, to any member of this agreeable confederacy. Harmony presided over the deliberations of the assem- bly, between them and the chief executive officer, and his council, and the most cheerful friendly dispositions were cherished and prevailed throughout the colony. Its inhabitants maintained the laws of their adoption, and supported the officers of their choice. It is a subject of regret that we are unable to furnish a complete list of the original members, founders of the association, assembling in the shades of the forest, when benches between the ancient walnuts»long served them for seats, when a rude pile of stones for a fire place was erect- ed against the side of the hill, and a few simple materi- als comprised all the cooking apparatus and furniture. — Amongst them, we are enabled to enumerate a few wor- thiesj Thomas Stretch, Thomas Cash, Thomas Tilbury, William Warner, Philip Syng, Enoch Flower, William Plumstead, Samuel Morris, Luke Morris, Hugh Roberts, Caleb Cash, Isaac Garrigues, John Howard, Joseph Stiles, Charles Jones, Isaac Snowden, William Hopkins, Isaac Stretch, William Ball and Peter Reeve. (20) These gentlemen and associates formally organized the company under the name and title of the colony in Schuylkill, so early as the year 1732 as has been remark- ed, at which period good rules and regulations were adopt- ed. At the October election in that year, Thomas Stretch was unanimously elected Governor. The other officers chosen were, five members of assembly, a sheriff, coroner and a secretary, acting also as treasurer was appointed by his excellency. In these officers were combined, the executive, legisla- tive and judicial functions, of this novel and extraordinary self created government. The elections were annual, and the expenses moderate. They consisted chiefly in providing a good repast for the electors, after the closing of tlie poll and conclusion of the ordinary business. The viands on these great occasions consisted of sub- stantial fare — Rounds of Beef, Barbacued Pig, Surloin Steaks, and the productive industry of the angler and the fowler, accompanied with flowing bowls of good punch, lemonade and madeira, with the enjoyment of a pipe and tobacco — cigars being in those frugal days, an unknown luxury to the young colonists. Tickets were issued previous to election day, to a com- mittee of distribution and collection, tor which at the meeting, they accounted to the treasurer. The holder was entitled to a vote at the poll, and a seat at the banquet, on payment of the tax, which varied from five shillings to seven and six pence. This produced a sura in the aggregate, amply sufficient for all contingencies, including powder and shot for the gunners, who at early dawn, sallied forth to provide game an election day, for eighty-four for the festive occasion. It may be interesting to some, and afford a tolerable specimen of the kind and cost of the fare to our good an- cestors by presenting a bill rendered in olden times, on persons. "ELECTION EXPENSES, 1748, OCTOBER.' " To Cashpd. James Coultas, " 4 Gallons Spirits, at 7-Q. " 1 do. Wine " Pipes and Tobacco, . "Expenses at his House, " Butter at Warner's, "Cashpd. at Warner's for yr. trouble, .... " Ditto to the Negroe's, "Rock Fish of Adam Galer, £ s d 1 10 0 10 0 2 6 2 6 5 0 5 0 5 0 6 0 10 To Enoch Flower, £ s d " For 200 Limes at 7-6. 15 0 « 6 1-2 lbs. Sugar, 7 7 "211bs. Bread, . 5 10 " 7 lbs. Flower, . 1 9 " Loaf Bread, . 1 8 " Onions, . 8 "Earthen Ware, 10 4 "4 1-2 lbs. Cheese, 4 l-2d 1 8 « 18 lbs. Beef. 4d 6 " 20 do. do. 3 l-2d . 5 10 " 1 1-2 lbs. Powder, . 4 6 "7 lbs. Shot, 3 6 " 1 Strainer, 10 To Luke Morris. "For Wafers, Paper, Ink, J. J. . . £ 6 18 £ 21 was paid in, being the amount of the collections of the committee, leaving a surplus of ^ 14 1 4 for the treasury. Destitute of the ample culinary accommodations of modern days, the colonists, it appears, on their extraordi- 11 nary election feast, had a part of the dinner cooked in the establishment of Baron Warner, on the hill, high towering above the circumscribed premises of the little colony. A good Turtle and a Barbacue were common appenda- ges at election dinners, to which strangers and friends of members were usually invited. This hospitable custom is continued. A bill is before us, receipted by Caleb Cash to Governor Stretch, October 5th 1757, for £ 7. 11. 8 1-2. in which a Shoat is introduced, with a fine green Turtle, and the ap- pendages for a Turtle feast, of a leg of veal and rich spices, a large round of beef, perch, rock and grey squirrel^, figure as usual, with punch and wine the ordinary beve- rage, and seven shillings worth of pipes and tobacco. The Turtle commonly provided; it is presumed, were of considerable weight, if the cost is any criterion in times of comparatively cheap living, when bread was but three pence a pound loaf, beef three and a half pence, and ma- deira eight or ten shillings the gallon. We have before us a receipt, for one of these exquisite shell fish of the deep. Received Philada. 10th Octr. 1767, of Mr Joseph Stiles, four pounds, ten shillings, in full for a turtle sold to Mr. Davenport, for the use of the Schuylkill Fishing Company. SAML: ROGERS. £ 4. 10. 0. 12 In the year 1747, for their more convenient accommoda- tion, thej resolved to build a Court House, as it was termed, for the meetings of the Governor, Assembly and Colonists. It was erected at Warner's by permission, on the slope of the hill on which the Mansion House stands, adjacent to the river, and beneath the umbrageous shade of the large and very ancient walnut trees — some of which, spared in the innovating progress of canal im- provement, yet rear their lofty heads, proud monuments of olden times. The rude edifice of timber, probably cut on the spot cho- sen for the scite, cost as appears by an attested account on the minutes, presented, approved and liquidated on the 31st of January 1748, amounting to the sum of ^616. 7 9. At this period, the proprietor granted a lease of the soil on which it was located, with sufficient surrounding ground for the colony's accommodation, and the next year after the occupancy of the Court House, the stipulated rent was paid in kind, as the receipt exhibits; « Schuylkill June 1st 1749, Received of the Hon- orable Thomas Stretch, Esquire & Co. three fresh sun perch, in full for one years rent, of the Court House lot on Schuylkill, due this present month." WILLIAM WARNER. The gentlemen then composing the colony, were of the first respectability and standing in society. Many of 13 them are remembered by some of our venerable citizens, particularly those of them who figured in the war of In- dependence. Nearly all of them, have native descendants scattered over the Union, who may be interested to learn the names and doings of their social ancestors. This may serve as an apology for recording in this place the names of the worthies in 1760, many of them, then members of long standing. Governor — The Honorable Thomas Stretch. Assemblymen — Luke Morris, Enoch Flower, Joseph Stiles, Samuel Morris, Jr. Isaac Stretch, and Peter Reeve, Esquires. Sheriff — James Wharton, Esq. Coroner — John Sibbald, Esq. and Joseph Stiles, Esq. Treasurer and Secretary of the Col- ony in Schuylkill. AND THE FOLLOWING MEMBERS. William Warner, Baron. Wm. Bradford, Jos. Redman, Isaac Garrigues, Thomas Cash, James James, Samuel Hasell, James Eddy, John Lawrence, Charles Jones, Robert Greenway, Joseph Stretch, Samuel Mifflin, Samuel Garrigues, Thomas Tilbury, Samuel Neave, John Jones, Caleb Cash, Wm. Plumstead, Jacob Lewis, William Hopkins, Enoch Story, 14 Israel Morris, Thomas Harper, Thomas Wharton, Stephen Shewell, John Leacock, William Ball, Joseph Wharton,jr.Wm. Morris, Jr. Samuel Burge, James Coultas, Ed. Pennington, Jacob Cooper, George Dillvvjn, Wm. Ransted, Wm. Dowell, William Fisher, Joseph Saunders, Cadr. Evans, George Gray, Sanil. Shoemaker, Henry Harrison, Joshua Howell, John Nixon, Saml. AVharton, John Howard, Philip Syng, Danl. Williams, Thomas Lawrence,T. Wharton, Jr. James Logan, Evan Morgan, Jonathan Evans, William Parr, Sixty-four in number, exclusive of the Baron, the owner of the occupied soil, an honorary member by usage to this day. In 1760, the governor and assembly, for the purpose of correcting some prevailing abuses and innovations on pri- mitive usages, &c. passed the following act, comprising them, entitled, "an act for the support of the Navy in Schuylkill, and for the better regulating the Fishing Company. " Whereas the Fishery in Schuylkill, is well known to be the staple, natural and prime riches of our Colony, and de- pends entirely upon our Navy, the victualling and mann- ing whereof, hath hitherto been unequally sustained by a few, whilst the advantages have been common and free to all the members and Freemen of the said Colony; and Whereas several innovations have been introduced, di- 15 rectlj inconsistent with the original Constitution and frame of the Government in Schuylkill, more especially the Fishing there; for remedy whereof and the better sup- port of our Navy J Be it enacted, by the Honorable Thomas Stretch, Esq. Governor in chief of the said col- ony, by and with the advice and consent of the Freemen of the said Colony, in General Assembly met, and by the authority of the same, in manner following, that is to say, 1st — That every member of the Fishing Company in the said colony, shall pay into the hands of the treasurer of the colony, or such other persons as shall be appointed by the Governor, on demand, an equal part of all charges incident to the said Navy in Schuylkill, to be rated and assessed by the members of the assembly, from time to time. 2d — That every member who shall dine with the com- pany on a fishing day, shall appear above the rock called the middle or Tilbury^s rock, before eight o^clock in the forenoon of such day, or satisfy the company that he was in their service actually, before the aforesaid hour; in de- fault whereof, he shall pay to the treasurer or appointed officer, one shilling and six pence. 3d — That if any member shall introduce a person who is not a member, or if by means or privity of any member, any person shall come to the Fishery who is not a mem- ber, such member shall pay for every such person so in- troduced or coming by his means, one shilling over and above the club or reckoning of himself and such person. 16 unless the Governor's consent for the coming of such person be obtained on the day preceding. 4th — That every member who shall be absent three fishing days successively, shall pay six pence for every such absence- 5th — That such of the members who shall set off earliest in the morning upon duty, shall be allowed to refresh themselves at the general expense of the day, to the amount of, and not exceeding six pence each member. 6th — That every member for whom an election ticket shall be made out and presented to, the rate of which shall be fixed by the Governor and major part of the as- sembly, who shall refuse to accept of and pay for the same the sum therein mentioned, shall be deemed to have ex- cluded himself from this company, and shall be no longer a member. 7th — That no person shall be allowed to have any vote or deemed a member of this company, until he shall have given his attendance on the fishing days and election days, at least for one full year, after the expiration whereof, and on the next election day, such person shall be qualified a member, unless the Governor object thereto. 8th — That all the fines and penalties, arising by virtue of this act, shall go to, and be appropriated towards the support of the Navy in Schuylkill, and for no other use whatever: moreover the Caterer for the day shall receive all the fines and penalties above mentioned, and pay the same into the hands of the treasurer for the time being, under the penalty of forfeiting his demand on the com- pany as Caterer for the day; any thing herein contained to the contrary notwithstanding. Lastly — This act shall commence immediately upon the publication thereof at the colony's court house, and shall continue in force for the space of one year, and from thence to the next election day, and no longer. Signed by order of the House, March 29th 1760. SAML. MORRIS, Junr. Speaker, pro ENOCH FLOWER. Let this ^ictpass, March 29, 1760. THOMAS STRETCH. JOSEPH STILES, Secr'v. fSchuylkil, 4 L. s. I 1732. Jurisdiction was always claimed and exercised over the adjacent woods, waters and their inhabitants. It is said traditionally, that some Indian Chiefs of the Leni Lenape or Delaware tribe, with whom William Penn made his celebrated treaty at Kensington on the Del- aware, attended a council of the Colonists held in the Forest, where the Court House afterwards stood, and in the name of the tribe and by their authority, granted to the Colonists and their successors forever, the right and privilege to hunt in the woods, and fish in the waters of 18 the Schuylkill, over which within a prescribed boundary, they consequently afterwards claimed and maintained, a respectful and undisturbed jurisdiction. No one without permission, ever intruded on their pos- sessions or invaded their rights. The provincial Government of Pennsylvania, appointed commissioners to survey the river from its mouth up- wards, of course including the w^aters over which the Colony exercised a granted jurisdiction, to guard against the invasion of their sacred rights, they deliberated and finally authorized their Governor, to grant permission to Mr. Coultas a member and inhabitant of Blockley, then High Sheriff of the County of Philadelphia, who had been appointed one of the commissioners of sur- vey, by the Provincial Governor, to execute his commis- sion. An authorization was issued accordingly, viz. " To all our loving subjects, in the Colony in Schuyl- kill, to whom these presents may come. Greeting; Where- as the bearer hereof, James Coultas, has been a long time a member of our said Colony, and borne several commis- sions of honour and profit, and the said James Coultas has discharged the same to our satisfaction? Now Know Ye, that the said James Coultas is by our permission ap- pointed by our neighbouring Government a commissioner for viewing the river Schuylkill: We do hereby request that the said James Coultas and his associates, may have all the assistance that may be necessary for such discov- 19 eries that he and thej may want to make. Given under my hand and the great seal of the Colony, this third day of October 1761, and in the twenty-ninth year of my ad- ministration. THOMAS STRETCH. JOSEPH STILES, Secr'y. rSchuylkil, 1 4 L. S. I i 1732. J Armed with this documental authority, he proceeded to the faithful execution of his duty. Intimately connected with the history of the Colony in Schuylkill, is that of a company assembling on the same river, which we may appropriately now introduce to no- tice. At an early era in the 18th Century, an association for similar purposes, called the " Society of Fort St.BavicVs,'" enrolling on its list, a large and respectable number of as- sociates, emphatically termed the "Nobility of those days," was established above the Falls of the Schuylkill. They were many of them Welchmen, some of them of the Society of Friends, companions of William Penn, and co-emigrants to the new world. On an elevated and extensive rock contiguous to the Eastern bank of the river, and projecting into the rapids, rose the primitive rude but convenient and strong structure of hewn timber, cut from the opposite Forest. It was capacious enough 20 for the accommodation of the numerous garrison, who were then more celebrated for deeds of gastronomy, than deeds of arms. Their retirement in the admirable lo- cation, at the foot of an elevated and woody hill, and on the rock bound shore, favored the undisturbed enjoyment of their piscatory sports and feasts. No chosen scite could have been selected of more picturesque beauty and interest, or equal for angling on the meandering stream. In those days, and long since in the present Century, no place on the river equalled the Falls, for rock and perch fishing; and small blue catfish were taken in abun- dance by hand nets, dipped in the eddies of the stream, or in the circular water worn cavities of the tide deserted rocks. Here was the chief barrier of the rising Hood. When the tide was out, the roaring of the turbulent wa- ters, precipitated over the continuous and rugged chain of rocks, extending from shore to shore, was heard on still evenings many miles over the surrounding country, and was often borne on the veings of the wind with dis- tinctness to the City, a measured distance of five miles. Time and the innovating hand of man, have here wrought wonderful changes. The sturdy trees of the Forest have fallen before the uplifted axe, and the massive and deeply imbedded rocks of tlie river, planted ages since by the hand of nature, have not been spared by the hand of art. About the period of the late war, many of the great rocks, and amongst them the scite of the Fort, were blown 21 up for navigation purposes, and used in the erection of bridge piers and buildings; and the whole Falls, were eight years since destroyed, by the damming and banking of the waters a few miles below. The natural cataract became transferred to the more silent and useful artificial one, now presented to our admiring view at Fair Mount. The war of Independence dispersed the garrison of Fort St. David, and the peace found their block house in a heap of ruins, having been consumed by the devastating Hessian corps of the enemy. On the invasion of Pennsylvania, and approach of the foe, the members of the society suspended their plea- surable meetings, and secured all their moveables in- cluding a tolerably good museum in a place of safety. On the return of peace and its attendant blessings, the reduced society of Fort St. David, re-assembled on the old rock of the garrison, and unanimously resolved with permission of the citizens of the State in Schuylkill, thenceforth to unite their forces and their preserved valuables, in prosecution of their favorite amusements and festivities. They were no strangers to each other.— In pursuit of a common object, they had often as neigli- bours and fellow sportsmen, kindly interchanged the ci- vilities of hospitality, on the highway of waters, and at the feast. These intimacies resulted in personal friendships and the citizens of the new Republic in Schuylkill, hailed with a lively welcome, the auspicious and timely acquisi tion of members to their thinned ranks, and valuable ad- dition to their property. Five or six immense pewter dishes, of divers forms for the display of a barbacue or a large rock fish at the festive board, which were brought to this country by the propri- etary, stamped with the family coat of arms, and present- ed to the society of Fort St. David's, were amongst the treasures added to the common stock. The union prospered beyond the most sanguine expect- ations. The materials of both associations were of the most indestructible kinds. A spirit of Independence had ever pervaded every mind, and subjugation or oppression in any form, was odious and revolting to these kindred spirits, as the progress and events of the war, bear testi- mony. To the honor and enterprize of many, very conspi- cuously engaged in aft'airs connected with its civil and military progress. What better evidence can be adduced, of the patriotic spirit which animated these our worthy progenitors, than their early manifestation of indignation at, and manly re- sistance to the slightest invasion of their rights, in this peaceful asylum of Liberty. The Parliament of the mother country had passed di- vers obnoxious and oppressive laws, too well known in our history to be recapitulated here. The provincial Governors were constantly at variance with the provincial legislative assemblies, and exercised high assumed pow- ers and prerogatives, in derogation of the chartered rights 23 and liberties of an injured and jealous people. Long anterior to the general open rebellion against tyranny and usurpation, many writers appeared in public vindication of the rights of their oppressed countrymen, wielding their able pens in the hallowed cause of freedom. Amongst these choice spirits early appeared John Dick- inson Esq. a gentleman highly respected for his virtues and attainments in the science of jurisprudence. His reputation was established in the political arena, as the author of the celebrated series of epistles known as the Farmer's Letters, published at an important crisis in Colonial aftairs, and with an electric effect on the sensi- tive minds of the whole community. In the prevailing spirit of the times, the Governor and his people of Fort St. Davids, conferred on the author the dignity of gratuitous membership in their society, and presented him with a large circular silver snuff box, with an appropriate device and suitable inscriptions. As the record of the certificate of admission is quaint and curious, a copy of it is given from the original docu- ment. Fort St. David's, XVI day of April, 1768. Which day in the presence of his Excellency Governor William Vanderspiegel Esq. commander in chief in and over his Majesty's Colony of Fort St. David's and the territories, fisheries, &c. thereon depending, and Vice Admiral of the same, in full council, John Dickinson, Esq. £4 of the Citj of Philadelphia, in Pennsylvania, Barrister, (the friend of Liberty, the second Pitt, the author of the Farmer's Letters,) for his patriotic productions in behalf of the rights, liberties, and privileges of the present, as well as the rising and future generations in America, is hereby admitted one of our members, for good services done by him to the interest of the British plantations in America, and we do hereby declare that the said John Dickinson, Esq. his admission to be as valid, effectual and sufficient to him, as if he had paid the whole fees, in use to be paid by freemen. Extracted from our book of records, in the Government of St. David's, by me. Deputy Secretary thereof, Witness hereunto my subscription manual, and the seal of the Government affixed. HENRY VANDERSPIEGEL, [L. S.] Dep'y. Sec'ry. The Silver Box accompanying this attestation of free admission to the privileges of membership, thus sponta- neously awarded to Mr. Dickinson, as the tribute due to his patriotism from the society, and now believed to be in possession of his family bears the following inscriptionsj On the top of the box, the cap of liberty on a spear, resting on a cypher of the letters J. D. underneath. Pro Patria, and in a marginal circle surrounding the whole is inscribed "The gift of the Governor and Society of Fort St. David's, to the author of " The Faimer's Letters," in 25 grateful testimony of the very eminent services thereby rendered to this Country, 1768.'' On the inside of the top, " The Liberties of The British Colonies in America asserted with attic Eloquence, and Roman Spirit, by John Dickinson, Esquire, Barrister at Law." On the inside of the bottom, " Ita cuique eveniat ut de republica meruit." On the outside of the bottom, A Sketch of Fort St David's. In the Spring of the year 1762, attention was directed to the dilapidated state of the Boats. At a General Assembly of the Representatives of the Freemen of the Colony in Schuylkill, met [pursuant to Special Writ] the 18th day of March, 1762, they passed 26 AN ACT For augmenting the Navy in Schuylkill^ and for main- taining the same, Sj-c. WHEREAS, upon a late survey taken of our Navy in Schuylkill, it unquestionably appears that our two Frigates, known by the names of Shirk and Fly, are condemned as totally unfit for servicej and Whereas it greatly behoves the honour of our Colony, in an especial manner at this time, not to suffer the least diminution of our marine, knowing that our chief support depends there- on: Therefore, for these and other reasons, Be it enacted by the Honorable Thomas Stretch, Esq. Governor and Commander in Chief, in the said Colony in Schuylkill, by and with the advice and consent of the Freemen of the said Colony, in general assembly met, and by authority of the same in manner following, That is to say; 1st — That two new frigates, the one of twelve feet, and the other fourteen feet keel, be immediately put on the stocks, and got ready with all expedition. 2d — That in order to defray the necessary expenses of the above mentioned two new frigates, both as to their building and equipment, fitting for actual service, as also for other necessary and contingent expenses, Be it fur- ther enacted by the authority aforesaid, That a tax of fif- teen shillings, be immediately levied on each and every one of the members of our said Colony, not doubting an 27 universal obedience hereto, by every worthy member there- of, nevertheless, if any member proves so unworthy as to hold in contempt this our act, by disobedience hereto, such shall be deemed no longer a member of our aforesaid Colony. And be it further enacted, by the authority aforesaid, That the money arising from the above tax of fifteen shil- lings p. head, so levied on each member as above, be paid by the several collectors thereof, into the hands of Joseph Stiles and James Wharton, who are hereby appointed to supervise the building and fitting for service the above said two new frigates, and defray all the expenses accru- ing thereon. And all the overplus moneys, if any remains after said charges be paid, shall be paid into the hands of the treasurer for the time being. And Peter Reeve, Isaac Stretch, James Wharton, Samuel Morris, Jr. William Hopkins and Joseph Stiles, are hereby ordered and ap- pointed collectors of the abovesaid tax. And be it further enacted, by the authority aforesaid. That all and every the above said Peter Reeve, Isaac Stretch, James Wharton, Samuel Morris, Jr. William Hopkins and Joseph Stiles, shall cause to be laid before the general assembly at the next meeting, a true account in writing of all their transactions, relating to, or any ways concerning this act. Let this ^ct pass. [L. S.] THOMAS STRETCH. March the 19th, 1762. £8 A warrant was issued accordingly to the above named gentlemen, commissioned to collect the tax levied by the act, duly signed, sealed and attested by authority. All the members, sixty-three in number, punctually paid the con- tribution of fifteen shillings each, amounting to the sum of £ 47 5, which was immediately deposited in the treasury, in which, after defraying the expenses of increasing the Navy, a considerable surplus remained for contingencies. The following bill shows the promptitude with which the act was executed. Stiles 8r Wharton, To Joseph Warner, Dr. 1762. March,— To building a boat 15 feet, 15s £ 11 5 0 To a coat of Stuff, 7 6 To 2 ash oars, 20 feet, 5s 8 4 To 2 buoys, 3s 6 May 28th.— To building a boat 17 feet, 15s 12 15 To a coat of Stuff; 10 To 2 ash oars, 22 feet, 5s 9 2 To mulberry timber in the two boats, - - - 1 10 iE 27 11 29 Received from Joseph Stiles, the full contents of the account. July 13, 1762. JOSEPH WARNER. At this epoch, the company was in a most prosperous state. Its fleet was in prime order, its treasury replen- ished and its members numerous, amounting to about 75; nearly one half of whom it is presumed, were punctual attendants on duty, when permitted by leisure from busi- ness, and many of them were renowned as active and successful sportsmen. Some preferred to range with the gun, but the major part sought their luck on the water, which always yielded abundance to the expert and indus- trious angler. In October 1765, by reason of the advanced age and in- firmities, of his excellency the venerable Governor Stretch, Luke Morris, Esq. was unanimously chosen, and proclaimed Lieutenant Governor, according to law. The succeeding year, the Governor departed this life, at a good old age, after a long and prosperous administra- tion, of nearly thirty -four happy years. The choice of a successor, would have fallen on the worthy Lieutenant, but to the regret of all, he modestly declined acceptance of the proffered honor, because said he, in a letter bearing date October 11th, 1766, " my presence in a neighbouring Government, being more im- mediately necessary than heretofore, I hope you will make choice of some person in my stead, to preside over 30 the affairs of the Colony, who can with more convenience attend to the decaying situation of our fishery, and sin- cerely study the peace and tranquility of Schuylkil." With Mr. Morris, the office of Lieutenant Governor became extinct, until it was revived twenty years after- wards, in the person of Josiah Hewes, Esq. for a short period. On the same day, the 11th October, 1766, the annual election was held at the Court House, and it is recorded, that the members then elected the Honourable Samuel Morris^ Esq. unanimously, but he being absent, did not qualify himself at that time. The next year, a meeting of the Governor and Assem- bly was called on the 12th of February, at Charles Jen- kins', at which his Excellency Samuel Morris, presided, attended by Joseph Stiles, Enoch Story, James Wharton, William Hopkins, Peter Reeve and Israel Morris, the assemblymen, in whom the plenitude of authority was vested for the transaction of business appertaining to the government, and affairs of the Colony. In pursuance of a resolve last year, for needful repairs to the Court House, Wharf, &c. and for the purchase of a new Boat, for the company's use, the same was according- ly performed, and the bills amounting to £ 19 17 10, or- dered to be paid, out of a tax fund levied of 7-6 on each. These improvements extended to the building of a hand- some pavillion in the branches of an ancient Wal- nut tree, which stood between the Court House and the 31 shore of the river, at an elevation of about fifteen feet, ap- proached by a railed stair way. It was this season declared, that "every person who shall hereafter become a member of this Colony, shall not be admitted, but by and with consent of the Governor, with the assent of a majority of the assembly, and upon payment of forty-five shillings, for the use of the Colony." And it is minuted, that his Excellency received 11-6 for fines, from sundry members, for not appearing on duty, so early as eight o'clock in the morning, in the year 1 766. The legislative March meeting, 1768, was called at Captain Stiles', all accounts of the preceeding year, in- cluding the treasurer's, were as usual adjusted, and a com- mittee appointed to have the boats moored at Humphrey's ferry, (the upper ferry,) and there painted and equipped for service. The company regularly met, and annually repaired their Navy, levied and collected their taxes, and progressed in a flourishing state; but a period was approaching, destined to interrupt their harmonious intercourse for a long time. The reason may be found in domestic dissention. In the political horizon a portentous storm was fast gather- ing, which was destined to spread its ravages over the North American Continent. Accident has thrown in our way, a file of the London Chronicle of this year, 1768. Thursday, July 21st, contains the following: ''It is said, that some disagreeable accounts are re- 32 ceived from Boston in New England; and the reports (if any credit may be given to them) were yesterday as fol- lows:" " That a Ship going into Boston harbour was visited by the officers of the customs, agreeable to the intention and direction of the late act of Parliament; upon which the populace rose and drove the Commissioners out of the Town, and damaged (some say destroyed) their houses. The Commissioners, in consequence of these violences, were obliged to take refuge on board a frigate in the har- bour, where they remained when these accounts came away." " We hear that certain orders were lately sent to dis- solve, or suspend several of the assemblies on the great west Continent." This was shortly followed by the following publication in the same paper, dated Saturday the 23d July. LONDON. "Thursday and yesterday an extraordinary council met on the affairs of America; and it has been reported that vigorous means will be pursued.''^ The prediction was verified, vigorous measures were soon adopted, and met with the becoming undaunted vi- gorous spirit of men, resolved to resist oppression in every form, determined to be free. The War of Independence which succeeded, dispersed 33 the members of the little peaceful Colony in Schuylkill, some to their country's councils, and some to the tented field. The October meeting in 1769, of the Colony's legisla- tive, was the last minuted convention, until near the close of the protracted war in the year 1781, a period of be- tween eleven and twelve years. Of the members belonging to the Colony in 1769, for whom tickets for the election were issued, the register enumerates forty names, viz. 1 His Excellency Samuel 2 Luke Morris, 3 Peter Reeve, 4 Joseph Stiles, 5 James Wharton, 6 Israel Morris, Jr. 7 William Hopkins, 8 Caleb Cash, 9 Jonathan Evans, 10 Daniel Williams, 1 1 Joseph Saunders, 12 Joseph Redman, 13 James Hamm, 14 Isaac Stretch, 15 Samuel Mifflin, 16 JudahFoulke, 17 Thomas Wharton, 5 Morris, Esq. Governor. 18 Josiah Hewes, 19 Anthony Morris, 20 William Parr, 21 Jacob Lewis, 22 John Jones, 23 John Lawrence, Esq. 24 William Fisher, 25 Joseph Stamper, 26 Isaac Warner, Esq. 27 Thomas Wharton, Jr. 28 William Bradford, 29 Samuel Hudson, 30 Joseph Wharton, Jr. 31 Joseph Galloway, Esq. 32 John Wharton, S3 William Jackson, 34 34 George Roberts, 38 Isaac Hopkins, 35 George Gray, 39 Jonathan Humphreys, 36 Thomas Shoemaker, 40 John Leacock, 37 Eden Hajdock, Several other gentlemen however belonged, who were probably absent at that period from home. After the campaign of 1779, Governor Morris, Josiah Hewes, Joseph Wharton, Samuel Nicholas, Tench Fran- cis, William Govett, William Gray, R. Roberts, Thomas Peters, James Wliite, Benjamin Eyres, Peter Kuhn, and GustavusRisberg, convened by appointment at his quarters and resolved to reorganize and continue the Fishing Com- pany. Events however frustrated the execution of their wishes for years. Governor Morris, who commanded the 1st Troop, dis- tinguished for eminent service in the campaigns of 1776 and 1777 was again at the head of his gallant corps at Trenton, in consequence of some threatening move- ments of the enemy in New Jersey, and reported to the commander in chief, that he was in the field and ready for further orders. Many of the members were yet in active service, in various departments of the army, in the line or in the militia, or in civil situations of usefulness, and high re- sponsibility. In 1776 the authority of the Proprietary Lt. Governor John Penn, ceased; he and the Provincial assembly 35 were ever at variance, since his induction into office, and in the same year the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania, chose Tliomas Wharton, Esq. of the Colony in Schuylkill, their President. It is worthy of remark, that but a single individual of the Colony, proved recreant to the cause of her great sis- ter Colonies, on the question of Independence^ and he only after serving their interests as speaker of the Provincial assembly, in resistance to the Lieutenant Governor's high handed sway, and subsequently as a member of the Con- tinental Congress of the thirteen United Colonies, in op- position to oppressive acts of a regal and of a parliament- ary character. He loyally returned to England, an act of attainder was.passed, and his property confiscated. It was not until March 1781, a regular meeting of the Governor and Council of the new State in Schuylkill, was held at St. Ogden's, or Joseph the Ferryman's Inn. Present. His Excellency Samuel Morris, Governor. Josiah Hewes, Peter Kuhn, Samuel Nicholas, Gustavus Risberg, Tench Francis, Benjamin Scull, Robert Roberts, Andrew Tj'bout, William Gray, James White, William Govett, Benjamin Eyre, Thomas Peters, James Wharton. (15) Messrs. Scull and Tybout, subsequently renowned as 36 very expert and devoted fishermen, were at this meeting proposed, and suspending old rules, as inoperative under the new dynasty, were elected members. On a report received, of the dilapidated state of the long abandoned Castle, Navy and Dock Yard, a commit- tee of four persons, viz. Messrs. Hewes, Nicholas, Scull and Roberts, were appointed to have all thoroughly re- paired, and to supply all deficiencies of Furniture in the Castle. Mr. Francis was appointed Treasurer and Secretary, and it was resolved unanimously, "That the sum of twenty shillings, /^m6e7• specie, be collected from each of the members, to defray the expen- ses of the ensuing year. The meeting of business then adjourned. It is remarkable, and worthy of notice here, that the first public legislative act of the general assembly of the State of Pennsylvania, and yet existing as a law in force, was passed in this month, when the first meeting, was con- vened since the War; It is entitled, A further Supplement to the act, entitled, "An act for making the river navigable, and for the preservation of the fish in the said river." Its provisiins prohibited the injurious prevailing prac- tice in those times of driving the river with brush-nets, or other like device, under the penalty of twenty pounds, and fifty pounds, for obstructing any person in their removal. And by another provision afterwards repealed, no per 37 sou was allowed to draw any seine or net for the purpose of catching shad, in any part of the Schuylkill, between the mouth thereof, and the lower Falls, five miles from the City, after the 20th day of xMay, or between the Falls and Black Rock, near French Creek, after the 25th of that month, or in any part of the river, after the first of June in every year, under ten pounds penalty. This was a judicious preservative law, as these early running fish were ever considered a precious commodity throughout the valley of the Schuylkill, which they as- cended for upwards of fifty miles, deposited their spawn on its rocky shares, whence the young shad descended in shoals in the summer months, to seek the Atlantic Ocean, and voyage to their distant winter quarters. The protection extended by law, to the shad fishery, operated admirably in preserving the smaller fry of the finny tribe, such as perch, rock and cat-fish, the esteemed commodities of the Fishing Company, from the venal wholesale depredations of intrusive net fishermen, within their sporting jurisdiction. On the 23d of March 1782, another business meeting was called of the Governor and Council, at Saint Ogden's; 14 of the gentlemen who last met, attended. John D. Mercier, Thomas Bond, Jr. and Joseph Rake- straw, were elected members of the State. A tax of two Spanish milled Silver Dollars, was asses- sed to be paid into the treasury, on or previous to the May meeting, and a committee appointed to assess an 38 adequate sum to be contributed by the five last elected members, as admission money to entitle them to be joint proprietors of the common property, and stock of the company. This equitable requisition continues, and is always cheerfully complied with by new members. The amount is from time to time, regulated and esta- blished, as may be deemed reasonable and proper. Messrs. Hewes, Nicholas, Scull and Roberts, commis- sioned last year to have the Navy, Castle, Dock Yard, and out buildings repaired last year, reported the accom- plishment of that service, with a. bill of expenses, amount- ing to £ 12 14 5, which was approved, and the thanks of the Governor tendered,/o)' their faithful discharge of the great trust reposed in them, and they were again honored with the like commission for the present year, with author- ity to draw on the treasurer for all expenses. A new tender for the Navy, was likewise ordered to be provided. The following important resolution was adopted, " That James Wharton, Andrew Tybout and John D. Mercier, be a committee to collect as many of the old laws and customs of the State, as may be thought necessary for the good government thereof, &c. and report proceedings in form, at the next meeting of the Governor and Council. On the 11th of October, 1782, whilst grim visaged war still raged in the land, but peace in prospect, a meeting was convened at Mr. Ogden's Inn, at which were present. 39 His Excellency Samuel Morris, Governor, Tench Francis, Esq. Secretary. William Govett, Treasurer and Deputy Secretary. Josiali Hewes, Samuel Nicholas, Robert Roberts, Wil- liam Gray, Peter Kuhn, Gustavus Risberg, Benjamin Scull, Andrew Tybout, James White, John D. Mercier, John Patton and William Hall, the two last of whom, were new members. The committee on the revision of the old code of laws, adapted to the altered circumstances of affairs of Govern- ment, made report, which being read by sections, after amendment, was agreed to, as follows: WHEREAS, the Court of Great Britain, soon after the peace of Versailles, in the year 1763, began to oppress the inhabitants of then British America, by laying restric- tions on their trade, and making laws to bind them in all cases tvhatsoever, contrary to the original charters, and the just and natural rights of freemen, and in the year 1775, did with a strong fleet and army invade the same, which obliged the inhabitants thereof, to unite for their mutual defence, and after frequent application to the Court of Great Britain, without obtaining redress, they were necessitated to declare themselves on the 4th of July 1776, FREE AND INDEPENDENT STATES^ in consequence thereof, a large military force invaded this State, and the virtuous inhabitants thereof, being unprovi- ded for defence, were obliged to withdraw into the neigh- 40 bouring States, until by their assistance those ravagers were driven out; and as from the absence of the inhabi- tants of this State, no regular meeting could be held be- fore the third day of March 1781, which has prevented the appointment of officers regularly,' and making laws for the better regulation thereof. Resolved, — That the following, be the Laws, Rules and Regulations, for governing the inhabitants of the new State in Schuylkill, none of which shall be repealed, un- less by the voice of two thirds of the members thereof. 1st — There shall be a grand Legislative Executive Council, which shall consist of twenty members, who shall from their body choose annually, by ballot, a Go- vernor, Treasurer and Secretary, who shall nevertheless retain their seats and votes in said Council. 2nd — That the Governor and three of the Council, to be chosen at the annual election, shall be a committee for the transaction of all business, during the recess of the Council. 3d — That Isaac Warner, be during his natural life, Chief Warden of the Castle, and its dependencies, who shall have a seat and vote in Council, and shall be enti tied to all the privileges of a member of this State. 4th' — The Governor shall preside in Council, and in case on any debate, there shall be an equality of votes, he shall be entitled to an extra vote, in order to determ- ine the same. The Governor shall likewise appoint the day of meeting, at the commencement of every season, 41 which shall be once every fortnight after, during said season. 5th — The Treasurer shall collect and receive all fines, taxes or penalties, and shall pay all warrants drawn on himi by the Governor or committee, shall keep exact and just accounts, and shall deliver them in for settlement at the last meeting, in the month of October, annually. 6th — The Secretary shall keep the books, papers, and records of the State, shall enter the proceedings in form, in the minute book, and shall perform all the duties usually attendant on such an office. 7th— No person shall be admitted a member of the Council, unless he shall have served a time of probation of at least one year, shall have been previously nominated by a member, and siiall not be elected unless with the ap- probation of eleven members; On his admittance he shall be duly sworn according to the usual forms, by the Secre- tary, and shall pay a sum of money for his admittance into the State, the amount of which to be determined by the majority of the members, or a committee appointed for that purpose. 8th — There shall be a Purveyor, who shall take his turn in rotation, beginning with the oldest member. 9th — Every member shall inform the Purveyor of his intention of being at the meeting aforesaid, and what friends he intends bringing, on, or before twelve o'clock, A. M. the day preceeding, and shall pay his quota of the 43 expenses, as well as those of his friends, in case he or they should not afterwards attend. 10th — There shall be the following meetings of the Governor and Council annually, exclusive of those di- rected in the fourth regulation, viz. One in the month of March, when the Treasurer shall bring in an estimate of the sums necessary for the expenses of the current year, and the mode of raising the same, shall then be ascertain- ed. One on the first day of May, to commemmorate the day of our illustrious saint and patron, St. Tammany. One on the fourth of July, to commemorate the Anni- versary of the Declaration of our Independence. One in the month of October, which shall be the day for the election of officers, for the following year. 1 1 th — Whoever shall not be at the waters of Schuylkill on the day of meeting appointed by the fourth regulation, before eight o'clock in the morning, and shall afterwards attend, and take his seat in Council, shall pay a fine of ten shillings and six pence, to be collected by the Treasurer for the use of the State, unless he hath provided suffici- ently for himself. 12th — Whoever shall be appointed on any committee, and shall refuse his services, or shall neglect attending on the same, shall pay a fine at the pleasure of the Governor and Council. 13th — Any member that shall not pay his taxes before the last meeting in October, shall be fined at the pleasure of the Governor and Council. 43 14th— Any member that shall refuse to pay his taxes, or fines, or shall otherwise notoriously oflfend against the honor and dignity of the State, may be expelled; but not without the approbation of two thirds of the members, and in case of expulsion, shall never be received again. By the adoption of which new code of laws, the old Colony became like her great sisters of the confederacy, a sovereign and Independent State, and their Court House, fitted up in taste for the auspicious occasion, was thence- forth raised to the dignified title, of the Castle of the State in Schuylkill. The committee fui-ther report, that the following thir- teen gentlemen, re-established this State in 1779, viz. Samuel Morris, Esq. who was elected Governor, Jo- siah Hewes, James Wharton, Samuel Nicholas, Tench Francis, William Govett, William Gray, Robert Roberts, Thomas Peters, James White, Benjamin Eyres, Peter Kuhn, and Gustavus Risberg. The nineteenth of October was appointed for the elec- tion of oflBicers for the ensuing year, and Mr. Robert Roberts and Mr. Peter Kuhn, were nominated as Pur- veyors extraordinary, to provide for the occasion, and the company adjoutned accordingly. On the nineteenth of October, 1783, the company met, pursuant to adjournment, under the new title of the '^ State in Schuylkill,'^ and elected the following officers, under the newly adopted system of Government. 44 Samuel Morris, Rsq. Governor. Josiah Hewes, 1 James Wharton, I Esquires, Counsellors. Tench Francis, J William Govett, Tieasurer and Secretary. The March meeting the ensuing year, preparatory to active operations, was held on the 10th of that month, at Mr. Joseph Ogden's, at the middle or Market Street Ferry, on the Schuylkill, when amongst other essentials, such as the annual refitting of the Navy, &c. an appropriation for that purpose was made, as well as for the purpose of building a Floating Bridge or Wharf, opposite to the Go- vernment House or Castle. The Spring and Fall meetings of business, continued to be regularly held, and the fishing seasons found a ma- jority of members, at their posts on duty. In March 1786, the citizens of the State were only twenty-one in number, viz. Governor Morris, Reeves, Govett, Gray, White, Rake- straw, Francis, Tybout, Paschall, R. Roberts, Patton, Hall, Scull, Risberg, Whelan, Kuhn, Bond, Ogden, Nicholas, T. Bond, and Paschall. It was then resolved, to extend and limit the number of members, as at present, to twenty-five, and this num- ber was completed forthwith, by the election of Colonel Francis Johnston, Hugh Roberts, Peter Browne and Adam Clampfei-. Two new Fi-igates were reported, as built for the in- crease of the Navy, and then riding at anchor, equipped for immediate service. On Monday the first of May 1786, the Company met agreeably to custom, and spent the day "in great har- mony and festivity. " So passed its successor, in 1787- A special meeting was called at Mr. Irwin's, Market Street near Seventh, on the eighth of June 1787, for the purpose of making "arrangements for the entertainment of his Excellency General Washington, and such other gentlemen as the company might choose to invite, on Thursday the 14th June inst. at the Castle. It was unanimously agreed to, and a committee com- posed of the Governor, and Messrs. Francis, Tybout, Johnston and Hall, appointed to carry the same into ef- fect, with authority to issue twenty cards of invitation to other gentlemen. Every circumstance connected with such a banquet, to the Father of his Country, and other distinguished guests of the Army, the Navy, and the Councils of the Country, could not fail to interest the American public of the present day, but unfortunately no record of the great occasion is preserved. The last named venerable gentlemen of the committee, and he alone yet survives, in the enjoyment of good health, and a tenacious memory, full of pleasant recollections of by-gone days. It was the good old custom, which is observed with patri- 46 otic veneration of the glorious day, dearly cherished in American hearts, uniformly to celebrate the Anniver- sary of our Independence. It was magnificently celebrated on the fourth of July, 1788, as a National Jubilee, in the City of Philadelphia, at which the members of the State in Schuylkill were generally engaged. The March meeting in 1789, was held at Samuel Nich- olas' Inn, sign of the Conestoga Wagon, north side of Market Street, above Fourth, at which the members gene- rally attended, and it was then specially recorded, By Order of the Governorj "That Mr. Benjamin Scull, the Prince of Fishermen, produced a Trout, which he this day took in Schuylkill, off his lay-out line, that measured fifteen inches.^' It was an extraordinary occurrence, for this wary fish to be taken in, in this river, in the manner related, or in any way in the tide waters of Schuylkill, where it has rarely been found. An old contemporary of this excellent member, asserts it as a fact, within his recollection, that Mr. Scull caught a Shad by a baited hook, in one of his piscatory excur- sions, before one was produced in the Philadelphia market. We are perfectly aware, that herring will sometimes take the hook, but it is a novel circumstance for a shad to bite. In our early years, we have freqently taken herring in Rancocus Creek, N. J. under the bridge, when fishing for perch with a deep sea. 47 After laying an assessment of 18 9 on each member, for the service of the ensuing season, an adjournment took place until the first day of May, to meet at the Castle. At the following October meeting, held at the Castle, on the 17th of that month, the election resulted in the choice of. His Excellency, Samuel Morris, Esq. Governor. Josiah Bewes, Esq. Lt. Governor and Counsellor. William Hall, Esq. Counsellor. Andrew Tybout, Esq. Treasurer and Counsellor. Benjamin Scull, Esq. Coroner, and Francis Johnston, Esq. Secretary. All these gentlemen continued to be annually re-elect- ed for many years, and served with assiduity in their re- spective stations. In the following Spring, March 1790, Messrs. John Donaldson, Thomas Forrest and Robert Wharton, were duly admitted to membership. The next season opened with flattering prospects, as the gentlemen associated, were generally fishermen by inclination, and of these choice materials, the company ought ever to consist, and of none others; as such was the design at its organization. A well for Spring water was ordered to be dug and walled, cedar posts and paling erected around the occu- pied grounds, and the fleet repaired for service, &c. 48 It was also resolved, that no member should thereafter take a party to the Castle, without the previous leave of the Governor obtained. This good regulation is now a standing law, and pre- vents unpleasant interference by intrusion. October 5th, 1791, says the record. By special order, " Be it remembered, that on the fifteenth day of Septem- ber last, a Sturgeon of four feet in length, leaped on board one of the vessels belonging to the fleet, while she lay at her moorings, opposite to the Castle, of which the compa- ny then present, made a delicious repast." It would have been more agreeable, if all these little events, and an accurate minute of the number and kinds of fish taken on company days, had been preserved by the several re- spectable Secretaries or Caterers. Antiquity enhances the interest of facts however unimportant in themselves, and the relation of them serves to amuse, if they do not instruct us. The next season, amongst other improvements suggest- ed, the subject of repairing the old, or building a new Cas- tle was considered, and Mr. Secretary Johnston informs us "that after solemn argument thereon, it was Resolved, that the old Castle should remain, but should be put in thorough repair." 14th March 1793, the company convened at the Widow Nicholas' Inn, Market Street, and amongst other inci- dental business despatched, it was ordained, that "From and after this day, the expenses attending all public meet- 49 ings of this company, shall be defrayed out of the public stock." By which means, the burthen was equally borne, each one being obligated by annual assessment, to contribute a quota to the Treasury Department. It had likewise the effect, of producing a more punctual and general attendance. Every one knows of the awful and afflicting visitation to Philadelphia, and its environs, in the memorable au- tumn of 1793, when many thousands of our unsuspecting fellow citizens were in a short period, swept from time to eternity, by the unseen and unsparing hand of epidemic desolation. It was not until the 24th of December in that year, and even then but a thinly attended meeting was convened, at Robert Irwin's, the White Horse Inn, Market Street, viz. the Governor and Messrs. Hall, Govett, Gray, Donaldson, Tybout, Kuhn and Johnston, only assembled, to condole with each other on the great bereavement of human life amongst their fellow citizens, and dearest relatives and friends, by the recent awful calamity. The transaction of business was postponed, and the suspended election of officers, fixed for the £8th Decem- ber, at the house of Mr. Ogden, at the upper ferry. At that meeting the election was held, and the old officers consentino; to serve were re-elected . 50 The following is a list of the Company taken Decem- ber 1793, in order of seniority of membership. 1. Samuel Morris, Governor. 2. Josiah Hewes, Lieutenant Governor 3. Tench Francis, Counsellor. 4. William Govett. do. 5. William Gray. 6. Peter Kuhn. 7. Benjamin Scull. 8. Andrew Tybout, Treasurer. 9. Joseph Rakestraw. 10. Williarn Hall. 11. Israel Whelan. 12. Hugh Roberts. 13. Francis Johnston, Secretary. 14. Peter Browne. 15. John Baker. 16. Jeremiah Fisher. 17. Anthony J. Morris. 18. John Donnaldson. 19. Robert Wharton. . 20. Thomas Forrest. 21. John Morrell. 22. Joseph Donnaldson. 23. John Graff. All of whom have long ceased to be members of the 51 living family, excepting Messrs. William Hall, John Donnaldson, Robert Wharton and John Graff, who have been preserved in health to ages, beyond the venerable period of three score and ten, and neither of them are at present members. Each in his day had his full cup of en- joyment, at the Colony and State in Schuylkill. A new generation has succeeded, and they in the natural order of events, must give way in the sobriety of ripened years, or satiety of youthful amusements, to their active succes- sors to the oar and angling rod. On the first day of May 1794, according to established usage, the gay month of Flora was greeted by an agreea ble assemblage at the long forsaken Castle. In the language of the facetious Secretary, Col. Frank Johnston. " At half past three o'clock, the company sat down to a delicious and plentiful entertainment, accompanied by a numerous train of convivial and pleasing guests, of whom it may be truly said, that the edge of wit was sharp- ened, the voice of melody was softened, and hilarity and good humour promoted through every rank." On the 4th July 1794, a numerous and respectable com- pany of members and their friends, celebrated the day at the Castle. The first anniversary meeting there, for aught that appears by the records, for several years. It is probable however, the fact is otherwise, and that the omission was the Secretary's, and not the members, to pay the accustomed honors to the memorable birth day of Independence. 52 October 9th the same year, a few members convened at the Widow Nicholas' on business preparatory to the ap- proaching election; thirty-two tickets were ordered for distribution; and on motion it was, " Resolved, That the members of this Company, viz. William Hall, John Morrell, Joseph Donnaldson, Jere- miah Fisher, Thomas Forrest and Francis Johnston, now in the service of their country, on militia duty, be ex- cused from taking up their tickets on the next election day, and that the Caterer be notified of this regulation." These gentlemen were out on the western (Pennsylva- nia) expedition, in the service of the United States, to aid in suppressing the formidable insurrection of the whiskey hoys, by popular appellation. In this campaign, the gallant first troop of Philadelphia City Cavalry, which had nobly served in the war of the Revolution, under the command of Captain S. Morris, now with alacrity volunteered, self equipped and provi- ded for service, to the number of fifty -two, under the Captaincy of John Dunlap, Esq. The decease of the worthy Baron, William Warner, the Proprietary of the soil occupied by the company, is recorded to have happened on the 12th of September 1794, much lamented by his associated friends at the Castle. On the 4th of July 1795, the Secretary informs us brief- ly, a meeting was held at the Castle, at which "a very respectable number of fellow citizens attended, and cel- ebrated the glorious anniversary of our Independence, 53 with the usual order and conviviality displayed upon such occasions." In October, the old tried officers vv^ere re-elected as usual, and the ensuing spring opened auspiciously. A very large meeting assembled at Mrs. Nicholas', and the various committees of accounts, on Boats, and Bridge, &c. were appointed, a tax assessed, and forty tickets issued for the May meeting, at two dollars each. This appears to be the last meeting at which Colonel Johnston acted as recorder of proceedings, and seldom appeared as a member at future meetings. Many years intervene, without the exhibition of any matter deserving of notice in the transactions. We were doomed to witness distressing revisitations of the dreadful malady of 1793, in the successive years, 1797, '98 and '99, with different degrees of intensity and less mortality, on account of the first impressive monition, and the timely dispersion of the justly alarmed inhabi- tants, who sought asylums from the pestilence, in every part of the surrounding country. Making its dread appearance late in the summer, and in the fall months of those unhappy years, the regular meetings were interrupted, until the surviving members were enabled to meet with convenience and safety, at their favorite Castle, or at the neighbouring ferry, to hold their annual elections, and make the necessary disposi- tions of business at the season's close. On the 1st of May 1800, the company met at the Cas- tle, and spent a festive day. 54 On the 15th, the fishermen treated the company to an abundance of fine perch, the first produce of the season. The annual election took place on the 8th of October, and the officers elected, appear in the schedule of twenty enrolled members, at the commencement of the present century. Samuel Morris, Esf{.— Governor. Josiah Hewes — 1st. Counsellor. William Govett. Benjamin Scull — Counsellor. Andrew Tybout. William Hall. Hugh Roberts. Peter Browne^Counsellor. John Baker. John Donnaldson. Robert Wharton. John Morrell. John Graff— Treasurer . Thomas Greeves — Secretary. Thomas W. Hiltzheimer. Spaftbrd Drury — Coroner. Thomas Morris, Jr. George Ludlam. John J. Parry. John W. Morrell. 55 The company now closed the year, and the eighteenth century, after the revolution of sixty-eight years, since their establishment, on the same happy and retired spot, on the river's banks, and in the identical Court House or Castle of Independence, in which they and many a wor- thy predecessor, had many a time and oft assembled, and mirthfully beguiled the passing hour. The new century opened with flattering prospects to the company, and events have justified the most sanguine hopes. A meeting was called on the 21st of March 1801, at William Ogden's Inn, Chesnut Street below Third, and attended by, Samuel Morris, Esq. Governor. Josiah Hewes, Esq. Lt. Governor and Counsellor. Benjamin Scull, Counsellor. Peter Browne, do. John Graff, Treasurer. Thomas Greeves, Secretary, and Messrs. Govett, Hall, Morris, Jr. R. Wharton, Parry, J. Morrell, Ludlam, Baker, and J. W. Morrell. The treasurer's account was reported, audited and set- tled, and a balance found of seventy dollars and ninety- two cents in his hands. The commissioners of the Navy reported the necessity of a new Frigate in place of the Washington, to be laid 56 up in ordinary, and preserved for good services perform- ed, and that three vessels were in need of repairs. The report was adopted, and Messrs. Ludlam and ^Morrell, were added to their number, to aid in execution of the duty. Tickets were ordered to be issued for the first of May, and the first fishing day fixed for the seventh, to continue as usual, every other Thursday, during the season. The meetings on fishing days, and those of spring and autumn for business, continued this and the two follow- ing years, to be well attended, interrupted however for several months in each year, by the partial re-appearance of the pestilential yellow fever. In 1804, at the spring meeting, a thorough inspection was made into the state of the Castle, kitchen, and their furniture, the fences, bridge, boats, &c. and a committee consisting of Messrs. Scull, Wharton, Morris, Jr. and J. S. Lewis, were appointed for those important services; all of which were executed, previous to the first sporting day in May. In the fall, the venerable Governor was re-elected, Messrs. Scull, Brown and Hall, chosen Counsellors, Mr. Lewis, Treasurer, and T. Morris, Jr. Sheriff, the first officer of the kind designated on record, George Ludlam, Coroner, and T. Greeves, Secretary. The years which intervened between this period, and 1810, exhibit a prosperous progress: the same officers were generally re-chosen, and vacancies by death or re- 57 signations, which were few, were soon filled by anxious aspirants, to the honor and privileges of the happy com- munity. Not long after the decease of Baron Warner, his farm became the property of Mr. Robert E. Griffith, a wealthy merchant of Philadelphia, who erected the elegant and spacious mansion, pavillion, stables, dairy, and the nu- merous other out buildings, which at present grace this splendid and romantic retreat. In the year 1810, it became the property of Mr. Rich- ard Rundle, who lived with his family on the estate until his decease, farming and improving each year, his exten- sive and valuable domains. On the first of May, he paid his respects by particular invitation to his new friends, the old tenantry of the Castle, and to their ample banquet provided on the hap- py occasion. A spirit of renovation, prevailed on the introduction of some new, and active members, and a new era commen- ced, with cheerful prospects. The Castle, cooking departments, viz. the kitchen and sundry cambooses, fine out door conveniences, arranged in circular order on the lawn for frying fish; together with the fleet, were reported repaired, and in fine order for use; and an inventory was exhibited of a good supply of crock- ery, glass ware, knives, forks, spoons, gridirons, pots, pans, kettles, beef steak tongs, toasting planks for shad, &c. in readiness for service. 8 58 The important duties of the care and repairs of the Castle, fleet, bridge, and the personal property, in and near the Castle, was now judiciously entrusted to a com- mittee of three new efficient members, viz,. Messrs. G d, J. M r, and R. L s. The old elective officers were chiefly reinstated. At a special meeting called on the 1 6th of May 1811, Mr. Rundle, the new Baron of the soil, was unanimously elected an Honorary Member, and notice ordered to be given him accordingly. A committee to revise and report on the laws, rules and regulations in force, or to be adopted, consisting of Messrs. J. S. L , T. M , and J. W. M — , were appointed. On the 27th of May, another special meeting was called, and a letter received from Baron Rundle, dated at Ea- glesfield, the 18th, addressed to his Excellency the Gov- ernor, in which after expressing the homage of respect and grateful acknowledgment, for the high honor confer- red by the respected officers and citizens, composing the State in Schuylkill, he proceeds to say, "Believe me, I can never forget this distinguished mark of their favor and partiality towards me, and that I shall always hold it in grateful remembrance, and be ever happy on all occa- sions to testify my esteem, by every act in my power to contribute to their comfort and enjoyment at the Castle." He sedulously kept his promise, and often to the peri- od of the Castle's removal from ^^ Eaglesjield,^' in 1822, 59 honoured the company with his welcome presence, where he occasionally met his venerable neighbour, associate and friend, the Honorable Judge Peters, of Belmont Farm, a genuine wit of the old school, and tlie late distinguished Judge Washington, of the Supreme Court of the U. S. when in Philadelphia, on his circuit tour of duty. The committee on laws, &c. reported a code, contain- ing the essentials of the old, with some judicious amend- ments and additions. It was adopted as hereinafter ex- hibited, was sanctioned by the Governor, and is at present in full force and salutary operation, by which all former laws and resolutions were repealed. It was resolved, that the said code of laws should be recorded in a book for the inspection of members, and a fair copy framed and placed in some conspicuous part of the Castle. The 20th of June, seven of the members who went out early, brought to the Castle, at twelve o'clock, A. M. a very large supply of fish. The perch were remarkably fine. This month uniformly excels all others in the year, in productiveness. In October the same year, Messrs. Wharton, Lewis, J. S. Morris and Baron Rundle, who had been previously appointed a committee of survey; reported a condemna- tion of the old Castle, as unworthy of repair, and furnish- ed a plan and estimate of the cost of a new one, to be about eight hundred dollars. The report was adopted, and being approved by his Ex- 60 cellency, Messrs. Wharton, Lewis and Morris, were ap- pointed the committee to superintend the immediate erec- tion of a new and more commodious Castle. A contribution was forthwith made of the requisite amount, and the funds placed at the disposal of the com- mittee. The committee likewise reported, that Baron Rundle, had voluntarily offered to grant the company a lease for seven years, in consideration of an annual rent of one white perch, payable in the month of June, each year; and renewable at its expiration, if agreeable to both parties; and in case of removal, the company to be at liberty to remove all their fixtures and effects. He kindly accorded the free use of his ice house, and other privileges. The friendly offer was accepted, a lease accordingly ex- ecuted in due form, and the thanks of the company voted to the Baron for his kindness. On the 25th of March 1812, the company assembled at the Castle grounds, and assisted Mr. Daniel Knight, the master builder, and his workmen, in raising the frame of the new building. The arduous task was completed by twelve o'clock, when the usual refreshments composing a good luncheon, were enjoyed by the industrious labourers, and at three o'clock, about sixty persons partook of an excellent raising dinner, provided for the important occa- sion. Much to the regret of the company, the venerable Go- vernor was unable to attend, by reason of indisposition. 61 On the first of May 1812, always distinguished as a gala day, at the Castle, a numerous company of members and visiting friends as usual, assembled early. The old Flag of State was displayed, and the Frigate Manayunk^ moored in the stream opposite, was handsome- ly decorated. An elegant china punch botvf, of mammoth size, exibi- ting emblematic devices of the staple commodity of the river, around its capacious interior, containing nine gal- lons, made expressly to order in Canton, for the Compa- ny, and brought thence by a valued, highly esteemed member, the late Captain Charles Boss, was generously presented by him, and forthwith christened the Boss boiol. Its delicious contents, were no less attractive than the splendid vessel itself, on account of an unseasonable sul- try day. Two superb Mandarin hats were likewise presented by him J which are on every return of Flora's joyous day, deco- rated with the wild flowers of many hue, from the neigh- bouring wood, intermingled tastefully, with the blossomed branches of the dog wood and judas trees. They are sus- pended as ornaments over the chairs of the presiding offi- cers, at either extremity of the merry banqueting hall. Baron Rundle presented at the same time, two splen- didly gilt cliina plates of antiquity, stamped 1692. On the 18th of June, the venerable Governor attended a numerous meeting at the Castle, of members and visi- ters, after an indisposition of some continuance; it was the last meeting he was ever permitted to attend. 62 On the 7th day of July 1812, the good old Governor, Samuel Morris, usually distinguished by the appellation of Christian Samuel, departed this life in the 78th year of his age, having been a member for fifty-eight years, and for forty-six years the chief magistrate of the Colony and States to which honorable post he was annually re-elected with perfect unanimity, respected and beloved by his en- deared associates, for the cheerfulness of his disposition, the benevolence of his heart, and the blandness and dig- nity of his manners. He was ever remarkable for studied courtesy and kindness to all invited guests. He uniformly declined in his latter years to sit for his portrait, though often solicited by some of his intimate friends. A good bust resemblance of him in wood, exe- cuted by our unrivalled artist, William Rush, Esquire, from occasional views of the original, unknown to him, was obtained, and now ornaments the Castle. It is placed within, over the front entrance, on an ele- gant pedestal presented to the State, by Mr. D. Knight, a visiter. Every stated meeting of the company attests the esti- mation in which this good citizen was and continues to be held, and his memory revered. After the " MEMORY OF WASHINGTON," which is always drank standing, " The memory of our late worthy Governor Morris,^^ always succeeds. His bereaved State decreed an oration to be delivered, as a just tribute to the manes of their departed beloved 63 associate and friend. A discourse was pronounced ac- cordingly by a member, to a respectable audience at the Castle, in July 1812j in which eloquent production, his merits and virtues as a man, in all the relations of civil life, and his eminent services as a soldier in the revolu- tionary contest, are fully, forcibly and justly deliniated. His highest eulogy as an officer, is the distinguished approbation of the Commander in Chief expressed to- wards himself, and the gallant patriot spirits who promptly rallied under his banner, nobly unfurled at the beginning of the war, in the sacred cause of their country, and who bravely fought at the battles of Trenton and Princeton, N. J. The following discharge from a tour of arduous duty, speaks volumes of merited applause. The original is preserved in the Governor's family, as a precious relict of the distinguished writer, so honorable to the receiver and his corps. " The Philadelphia Troop of Light Horse, under the command of Captain Morris, having performed their tour of duty, are discharged for the present." '' I take this opportunity of returning my most sincere thanks to the Captain, and to the gentlemen who compose the troop, for the many essential services which they have rendered their country, and to me personally, during the course of this severe campaign. Though composed of gentlemen of fortune, they have shown a noble example of discipline and subordination, and in several actions, have 64 shown a spirit and bravery, which will ever do honor to them, and will ever be gratefully remembered by me." GEORGE WASHINGTON. Head Quarters, Morris-Town, January 23rf, 1777. Several members of the Fishing Company, following the good example of their esteemed Governor, became members of the troop, and faithfully served their country under his command, of these were, William Hall, Second Serjeant. Samuel Howell, Jr. — First Corporal, and John Donnaldson. Levi HoUingsworth. Thomas Peters. — Privates. In tlie summer of 1780, the troop thirty-eight in num- ber again took the field, in consequence of movements of the enemy in Jersey. On their arrival at Trenton, they reported to the Commander in Chief, and awaited further orders to march, but events rendering it unneccessary to proceed onward, his Excellency General Washington in recalling them home, thus addresses them from Head Quarters. "The spirit and alertness which the Philadelphia Light Horse have discovered on this occasion, is such as to de- 65 serve my best thanks. I should have been happy in their services, had the enemy continued in the Jerseys; but as they have evacuated this State, and as the necessity is over which called them out, you will be pleased to return to Philadelphia." In September 1794, the services of the good old troop were again put in requisition by the general government, to assist in quelling the whiskey insurrection in western Pennsylvania. Fifty -two in number marched at a short notice, under Captain John Dunlap, who with the rank and title of Major, commanded a squadron of Cavalry. In April 1799, under the same commander, they again took the field, and marched to assist in quelling the re- bellion in Northampton County, Pennsylvania, against the laws of the Union. In both of these memorable expeditions, some of the troop who had served in the revolutionary war, and several gentlemen, at those later periods, who had become members of the Fishing Company, patriotically served the cause of the Union. It is at least some evidence of the excellence of these institutions, when temperance and discretion preside at the festive board, and wholesome exercise and innocent amusement are sweetly blended. They serve to dispel the enervating influefice of corrosive care. Very many of the members of the Fishing Company, have been remark- able for longevity. The first Governor was for thirty -four years, and his 9 successor fifty-eight years, members of this association, efficient in duty, and both lived blessed with excellent health to a good old age. The one arrived to the patriarchal age of near eighty years, and the other to that of seventy eight years. The two gentlemen having presided over the destinies of this social institution, for the unprecedented period of up- wards of eighty years. The unanimity of their frequent re-elections, during the whole term of their existence, attests the delightful harmony, amiability, and mutual good feeling, which have ever characterized the Company of the State in Schuylkill. It was founded on a solid rock, by good citizens, sup- ported by a good Constitution, and good Laws, strictly enforced under severe penalties to transgressors, and moreover, the example and prevalence of a general fru- gality in expenditures, for an ample wholesome repast. Extravagance and excess give the death blow to most convivial associations. Here both are strangers. Dependance for the dinner is usually with well found confidence, placed in the sea- son for fishing, on the success of the angler. No meats are purchased by the Caterer at this period, except Beef Steaks, and these are principally intended for, and are generally despatched at the noon luncheon, in satisfying the keen appetites of active fishermen. All fish from the market, are at such times excluded. 67 Occasionally, circumstances induce a departure, as the expectation of much company, or unfavorable winds and weather for fishing. In such case, a large rock fish or shad are provided. Hence the necessity of fishing, there- by fulfilling the original design of the company, which it is perceived, can never become or exist as a mere Baccha- nalian or Feasting Club, under its excellent well known regulations and customs duly observed. Sobriety prevails at the festive board, promoting the harmony and respectability of the institution, and there- by securing its permanency. After the lamented decease of the late Governor, the company were convened at the Castle, and elected Robert Wharton, Esq. at that time and long afterwards the active and efficient Mayor of the City of Philadelphia, for the un- expired term of the deceased. To this respectable situation, he was annually rechosen, and presided with honor and usefulness, until recently, a period of sixteen years, when declining years and impaired health, induced him to tender his i-esignation of office, and membership. Thomas Morris, Esq. a nephew of the old Governor's, and the senior member, was unanimously elected to suc- ceed him, and now officiates in the Gubernatorial Chair. The year 1812, was productive to the gentlemen, fond of the amusements on the water. Frequently five or six persons would take and return with from thirty to seventy dozen choice fish, principally the esteemed white perch. In October 1812, the company assembled in strength at 68 the Castle, being the day of election, and the eightieth year of the establishment. Robert Wharton, Esq. was rechosen Governor. Messrs. J. Graft', T. Morris and J. S. Lewis, Counsellors. C. Clay, Sheriff: R. Lewis, Treasurer. W. Gerhard, Coroner. J. W. Morrell, Secretary. In addition to these gentlemen, the following were at this period in membership. R. Rundle, Baron, Messrs. J. Graft', T. Greeves, J. S. Morris, J. R Coates, L Mil- nor, J. Peirsol, R. Morrell, J. Smith, R. M. Lewis, W. W. Fisher, H. Graff and E. Canby, in all, twenty- one. At this meeting the following presents were received, thankfully accepted, and displayed amongst other curious relics at the Castle, viz. A very large turtle shell, richly ornamented and curi- ously carved, from the family of Governor Morris. The jaw bones of a great Shark, caught by Capt. Robin- son, of the Ship Lancaster, on his passage home, in the China Seas, in April 1812. The monster was represent- ed to have measured fourteen and half feet in length, and contained twenty -two young, measuring from eighteen to twenty-two inches. 69 Also two small canoes, such as are used by the natives of the N. W. coast of America. The decease of Counsellor Jno. Morrell, took place August Sd 1812, in his sixty-second year, having been upwards of twenty-two years a worthy member, and twelve years in the Councils of the State. The gala May meeting in 1813, was attended by 18 members, and a number of welcome visiters. Mr. Thomas Carstairs generously presented a hand- some pedestal and canopy, for the bust of the late worthy Governor, and received an expression of thanks from the company, and a tender of the freedom of the State for the season. Mr. Clay likewise presented an elegant suite of colors for the service of the fleet of the State, which were im- mediately displayed and waved handsomely in the gently agitating breeze, of a mild spring day. Notwithstanding the early period of the season, good success crowned the fishermen's labors, who made a considerable return of fine sized perch. At the close of this season, the company received a re- enforcement, by the election of four worthy and approved apprentices, who were inducted according to usage. The March meeting of 1814, was well attended, and the gentlemen handsomely provided for by the excellent and generous Caterer of the day, as the record bears wit- ness to the expression of general satisfaction. It was resolved, that from and after the first dav of 70 May next, any member applying to the Governor for the key of the Castle, for a party to be holden there, shall pay into the hands of the Governor fifty cents, if the num- ber of the party does not exceed eight persons, if more, one dollar for the use of wood, &c. On application of Mr. S r, an old member, who in consequence of removal from the city to the State of Delaware, was placed on the list of honorary members, on the SOth of March 1809, he was now by desire re- admitted to active membership, on payment of the usual fees of admission of new members. On the 22d of December 1815, Eli Canby, an esteem- ed member, died at the age of fifty-six years. In April 1816, the old Castle which had been removed and converted into a temporary kitchen was pulled down, and a new and commodious one erected on its scite, to- gether with a wood house, new pump trough, and other requisite improvements appended. The stipulated yearly rent of a fish, continued to be paid with the punctuality attendant on all business mat- ters of the company . On the rental day the Baron usually dined with his friends at the Castle. A special commit- tee was usually appointed bearing a white perch, on one of the large Penn dishes to the mansion house, where it was formally delivered to, and received by the Baron, who acknowledged the receipt of the tribute, and had re- freshments served up to the committee. The 16th of February 1817, the lamented decease of 71 Joseph S. Morris, Treasurer of State, and long a worthy- member, is recorded. The March meeting was numerously attended, and several gentlemen proposed as candidates for vacancies. An excellent repast was served, of boiled rock fish, with savory oyster sauce, and beef steaks. A quantity of squam perch, brought out by the Caterer, exhibiting indications of having been too long out of their native element, were inspected by the Governor's orders, and condemned by the proper officer. Mr. Knight, the carpenter, further exhibited his kind disposition towards the Company, by the present of a large venitian door and window, which he affixed on the west side of the Castle, for the admission and circula- tion of air, and exclusion of the rays of the post meridian sun. He received a vote of thanks, and the freedom of the State for a year. The month of May 1817, proved unproductive of fish, occasioned by a freshet on one occasion, and a north east storm on another. June as usual was propitious for sport. On the 12th, five gentlemen made return of thirty dozen fine perch, exclusive of other kinds, and on the 26th about the same number, who went out early, were driven in by a heavy gust, at eight o'clock, A. M. with twenty-five dozen perch, and a good drenching. On Wednesday evening the 1st of October pursuant to law, the election for officers and members was held at the 72 Governor's house, South Third Street, in consequence of stormy weather, and the election dinner was necessarily postponed until Saturday following at the Castle. In November the fleet was hauled into Dry Dock, and the Bridge secured in the opposite creek as usual, at the rock, on the seat of J. C. Fisher, Esq. On the 8th of October this year it is registered, that death then deprived the State in Schuylkill of Captain CHARLES ROSS, a worthy member in the forty-fifth year of his age. The March, May and October meetings of 1818, were regularly held, several members added to the company, and the names of several candidates withdrawn from the ordeal of trial by ballot. Mr. Morrell the Secretary, produced a fair record of minutes, relative to the proceedings of the Colony and State since it received its charter of Independence, as far as could be obtained from the remains of scattered documents, and received an expression of the thanks of the company for his arduous service- Early in March 1819, an inroad was made on the ter- ritories of the estate, and serious depredations committed by feloniously breaking into the Castle and plundering therefrom sundry valuables, amongst which were the an- cient Penn pewter dishes, formei ly presented by the old Governor of Fort St. David's. The Thieves broke open all the chests and lockers, and stole therefrom a con- siderable amount of clothing, fishing tackle, &c. the pro- perty of citizens of the State. 73 The Governor and Council immediately convened a special meeting of the citizens, and publicly oft'ered a re- ward of Thirty Dollars, for the apprehension and convic- tion of the daring offenders, in either of the neighbouring sister states, to be paid out of the Treasury. A proclamation was accordingly issued, and in the course of the month, three of five dishes purloined, were recovered from Mayland's creek, near Gray's Ferry. The thieves to avoid detection, consequent on the pos- session of such extraordinary articles, of little intrinsic use or value to them, had at high tide deposited them in deep water near the high road above the Mills. The au- dacious robbers were never discovered, and therefore es- caped the merited punishment which awaited conviction, for the extent and wantoness of their depredations on and destruction of the property of the State, and of individu- als. The year 1820, was a productive season, and well at- tended, until some local appearances of the yellow fever, in the neighbourhood of Walnut Street Wharf, in the month of September, justly causing alarm, many gentle- men citizens of the State, retired to the country. At the close of this season, the records of State, bear the melancholy testimony, of the decease, on the 20th of October, of ISAAC MILNOR, in the fifty-seventh year of his age, a most worthy member, universally lament- ed by his friends and fellow citizens. On the 10th of January 1821, the citizens of the state 10 74 had to deplore the loss of another worthy member, and interesting companion, REEVE LEWIS, in the fortieth year of his age. The vacancies occasioned by the demise of these highly esteemed members, and by other regretted circum- stances, were early supplied, after trial and approval of several young apprentices on the roll of candidates. By reason of the completion of the dam at the Fair Mount Water Works, in the spring of the year 1 822, it was deemed expedient, to the deep and unfeigned regret of the Company, to deliberate on the subject of removal, from their original picturesque favorite retreat, which had witnessed the friendly associations and interesting convi- vialities, of ninety years. At the May meeting, the last ever held at ^^Eagksfield," an authorized committee, appointed at March meet- ing, consisting of Messrs. M s, L s, and F r, to examine and report on an eligible place for the Castle, Reported, that they had accomplished the object dele- gated to them, and that a suitable situation was offered in the vicinity of Gray's Ferry, (the most eligible scite to be obtained,) on a proposed lease for years, at a stipulated cask rent of fifty dollars, by the proprietor, Martin Ko- chensperger. The first rent, be it remembered, except in the produce of the waters, ever required to be paid. The report was forthwith approved, and it was ordered >t- ^ 75 that arrangements be immediately made to hold the next meeting of the Company there; that a proper lease should be obtained therefor, agreeably to the reported proposals, and Messrs. G d, M r and G y, were added to the committee, to conclude the arrangement, and an appropriation was made to defray the contingent expenses of removal, &c. It was also resolved, " that the thanks of the company be respectfully presented to the worthy Baron, Richard Rundle, Esq. for the accommodation and kindness experi- enced at his hospitable seat, as well as for the pleasure always afforded by his cheerful society, that he would be pleased to consider himself a perpetual honorary mem- ber, and continue to honor the company with his presence whenever agreeable." Governor Wharton, was deputed as the proper organ of communication, and a transcript of the correspon- dence which ensued, furnishes the best test of the af- fectionate relation which ever subsisted, between the re- luctant separating parties. Philadelphia May 16, 1822 Dear Sir, It affords me much pleasure to be the channel, through which the enclosed resolution of the Schuylkill Fishing Company is now conveyed to you; in 76 performing that duty, sensations of no ordinary cast have accompanied the resolution to remove an establishment, where for nearly forty years, I have so largely partaken of its innocent joys and festive hilarity, in the company of a Morris, Francis, Baker, Jones and Ross, vv^ith many others of equal celebrity, on v\^hom the curtain of time has fallen, has occasioned a train of pensive, though not unpleasant feelings^ conscious as I am that as actors on the great theatre of this life, they have performed their parts, and have left the busy scene to their successors, who in their turn, must retire. Permit me individually, to tender my acknowledge- ments for the indulgence which you at all times evinced towards our association, and respectfully to solicit that you will visit our new location, whenever your inclination and convenience may prompt you. With sentiments of the highest esteem, 1 am your Friend, ROBERT WHARTON. Governor of the State in Schuylkill. To Baron RICHARD RUNDLE, Esq. 77 Eaglesfield May 20th, 1822. His Excellency Governor WHARTON, I am this instant honored by the receipt of your highly esteemed favour of the 16th inst. enclosing the re- port of a committee, appointed for the purpose of furnish ing reasons why it became necessary to relinquish the scite of your old Capitol, and remove to a new one, where your good citizens might be able to follow their usual occupation of fishing in less troubled waters, than in the present state of those they leave, on account of the dam obstruction. Observe my chastity of language in omitting the 'dJ which I fear the fish a scaly set of fellows who are the greatest sufferers, are in their language pro- voked irreverently to indulge in. In addition to the favors conferred on me by your as- sociation, I have my feelings excited by the very handsome acknowledgements which the good citizens have made me, for those overrated endeavours of mine to contribute to their comfort and convenience. The tvill I may be al- lowed to say, had always an existence, but the power of showing it, I am too sensible, has fallen short of meriting those kind expressions, which the company prompted by partiality have had the goodness, highly flattering to my feelings to express. It remains for me Sir, to place my- self on your goodness, and request you \vill present to 78 the gentlemen collectively and individually, my most grateful thanks, for their polite attentions, not only in the instance at present alluded to, but uniformly and constant- ly whilst their Capitol adjoined my domain. To you my dear Governor, I am indebted, for the handsome and friendly manner in which you have conveyed to me such a pleasing and unmerited tribute, and I must request you to tender to all, my grateful acknowledgments, and to re- ceive the same yourself, for the kind aft'ections of an old friend exhibited in your letter, which I reciprocate most truly. The distinguished honor conferred on me, by the unanimous vote constituting me an honorary member of your friendly Society, I gratefully estimate, and shall with pleasure, occasionally avail myself of the privilege thus granted, by meeting you at your new Capitol, and participating in those innocent and highly relished enjoy- ments which have always characterised the Governor and State in Schuylkill. In diplomatic language, and probably with more sin- cerity, I beg you ray dear Governor, to accept the tenders of my high consideration, for I truly am Your sincere and obliged Friend, RICHARD RUNDLE. The Baronial title and dignity expired with Mr. Run- die. 79 YEAR NINETY. Ji, D. 1822. The company assembled at the scite, on which the new Castle was erecting, on Thursday the 30th day of May 1822, and of the Independence of the State, the 47th. The attendance was iinmerous of members and friends, on the extraordinary occasion. The following report was received, read, and ordered to be enrolled on the records of State. To the Governor, Council, and Members of the State in Schuylkill. The undersigned committee, appointed on the import ant subject of removal of the Castle from the old domain at Eaglesfield, Rundle Barony, Very respectfully submit a detailed report of their proceedings, as follows: — Pursuant to authority vested in us at the last Stated meeting held at the old State, on the first day of May to procure a more eligible situation on the tide waters of the river Schuylkill for fishing, and to remove the Castle, out buildings and all the personal property, to- 80 gether with the fleet and float (commonly called the bridge) thither, because of the late artficial obstruction to the navigation of the river by the Dam at Fair Mount, which has not only inundated a considerable portion of the territory of the State, but has most effectually dammed the ancient highway of the finny tribe, in their annual ex- cursions from the ocean to the retired shores of our noble river, thereby most grievously depriving our citizens of perch fishing in the vicinity of the State. To provide a remedy for these serious injuries and deprivations, your committee made report favorable to the removal of the Castle, &c. to an advantageous situation, on the farm adjoining Rambo's Rock, which could be obtained on lease, for the term of eight years, at fifty dollars per an- num. The report having met your decided approbation, the services of W. M r, one of the committee, were volunteered in drawing, and attending to the execution of the lease, between Mr. Kochensperger the owner and W. W. F r, Esq. a Counsellor of State, another of your committee, in the name and in behalf of the State, for the period of eight years, at the rent before stated, of a commodious selected plot, containing about one and a half acres of land. This essential preliminary duty having been performed, your committee assembled for the last time in the old territory, on Tuesday the seventh day of May instant at eight o'clock in the morning, with a suitable number of carpenters, masons and labourers, to complete the busi- 81 ness assigned them. All hands went to work industri- ously, the carpenters and masons to taking down the buildings, and your committee and their assistants were employed in carefully packing up the moveables, and loading a scow for transportation to the new theatre of business and piscatory amusement. Two hours of indus- try completed the loading, and the well freighted scow was borne by the ebbing tide, down the river to her des- tined port, under the command of the chief Counsellor, assisted by his officers appointed for the trip, and a cho- sen crew of watermen, "good at a long pull." At noon the vessel was safely moored at Rambo's Rock, and her valuable assorted cargo landed in safety, within the bounds of the new State. At the instance of our obliging neighbour, and late worthy member, John GratF, Esq. the moveables belong- ing to the State and its members, were all securely stored in his adjacent fish house, until our building should be erected for their reception. Now commenced the im- portant ceremony of taking formal possession of our new territory. Mr. Morris being the oldest Counsellor present, at two o'clock P. M. convoked the members in attendance, viz: Counsellors L s, and Messrs. G d, F r and M — r-r, and according to ancient usage, solemnly announ- ced that in the name and on behalf of the "SCHUYLKILL FISHING COMPANY," he hereby took possession of the new territory, by and with the consent of the "lord 11 82 ot the soil," who was present, and bowed in token of perfect acquiescence. He then planted the old standard of State on the chosen scite for the Castle, and in due form, proclaimed the territory (now ceded to the company on lease,) to be named, and hereafter to be called and known as, THE STATE IN SCHUYLKILL. The assembled citizens celebrated the christening by the customary libation, followed by loud and joyous huzza's. Schuylkill hear'd the merry strain, Repeated o'er and o'er again. Her ebbing tide bore on the air, And echoed it to Delaware. A hearty repast on the verdant bank under a shady foliage succeeded. It consisted of (plank'd) shad from Schuylkill, and fine beef steaks, &c. &c. to which were added a quantum sufficit of " Governor." Thus was conseci'ated, and in harmony ended the me- morable, industrious and joyous day, and thus were the duties of your committee terminated. '-^ ■ ' ■"■■■^''- W. M— R,Jr.- S. N. G Y, T. M S, ■ ' J. S. L S, W. W. F R, W, G D, Passyunk Township, Philadelphia County. Thursday, May 30th, A. D. 1822. k ommittee. 83 The report being read, was unanimously approved, and the thanks of the company voted and presented to the committee, for the prompt and diligent attention mani- fested in the performance of the laborious duty assigned them. They were thereupon discharged, and the meeting ad journed. W. M , Jr. Act'g Sec'ry. The transportation of the materials of the old buildings and of new, progressed and was soon completed, and the re-building of the Castle and the kitchen on substantial stone foundations, was prosecuted tardily, but they were how- ever completed and occupied in the course of mid-summer. The lithographic view executed at the establishment of Col. Childs, under his immediate direction by M. Swett, from a drawing of his, accompanying this historic sketch, exhibits with all the accuracy its limits will permit, the building termed a Castle, with its cupula and dinner sound- ing bell, and its vane, surmounted by a finny emblem. The Castle is 18 feet in width and 52 in depth, affording ample accommodation to dine upwards of eighty persons. To the left of the entrance, in the foreground, is a con- venient store and bar room for the Caterer of the day, and on the left a closet, for the deposit of culinary uten- sils, tools, &c. The whole building is well calculated for comfort in warm weather, being furnisned with a number of large mndows and doors on everv side. 84 The extensive loft above, is well ventilated by spacious windows at either extremity, and sliding apertures at the sides. Here the angling boxes, chests, and lockers of the several members are kept, with the oars, anchors, and all the requisite equipments for a well rigged fisherman afloat prepared for duty. The kitchen is a convenient airy building, of about 26 feet by 16 containing ample room in its spacious fire place for boiling, roasting and toasting, with an elevated stone platform for a large barbacue. Adjoining it, and in the rear is the wood house, and beyond it in the back ground is an extensive shed for carriages, and stalls for horses. In the foreground to the right from the river prospect exhibited, is a range of cambooses for frying fish in the open air, affording necessary room, and contributing es- sentially to the comfort of those engaged in the heating operation, in any weather. To the left, is seen a group comfortably seated in a sha- dy grove of pines, at noon, despatching warm steaks, and regaling themselves with cool punch or governor, after the morning's toil. The fleet of batteaus and boats, are usually fastened with locks and chains to a covered float of heavy timber of some length, called the bridge, one extremity of which is secured to the shore, and the other fast anchored in the stream. The access to it is by a few steps, from the bank nearly opposite the centre of the Castle. The remaining untold appendages of the establishment 85 are the useful cleaning and draining stands, which in fishing season usually exhibit a grand display of food for industry, and ind ustry earning a good appetite for the tempt- ing savory fry by engagement at the preparative process. YEAR NINETY. The first election, and first stated meeting of business, was convened at the rebuilt Castle, on the new territory, the second of October 1822, when the following officers was unanimously reinstated, viz. R — W n, Esq. Governor. Messrs. M r, L s, and F r, Counsellors. Mr. L s, Treasurer. W n, Secretary. S r. Sheriff. G y. Coroner. Most of the vacancies in membership, were filled on this occasion, by the election of five apprentices, who had served with approbation for the required term, in their novitiate station. October 16th, a chosen few of the diligent and fatigue enduring members and friends, assisting secured the fleet in its new and commodious haven beneath the Castle, and the bridge in secure winter quarters, pro- tected from ice and freshets by the boundary rock in a 86 basin to the southward of it, on the property of Mr. Graft'. A winter meeting was called early in 1823, at the Go- vernor's quarters, and measures adopted to liquidate the heavy debt incurred during the last year. With a balance in the treasury added to some voluntary loans of mem- bers, without interest, the emergency was promptly met, and the company thus well prepared, early and eagerly commenced the operations of the next fishing campaign, which had been unavoidably almost wholly suspended the last season, pending the building and improvements of the last year. The March meeting of this year was held at the Castle grounds, in the cooking department, before an ample fire with closed doors, on a day when Boreas was exerting without, the majesty of his chilling strength, augmenting the comfort of protection within. An adjourned meeting for the despatch of business took place at the mansion house of the Governor, on the 21st of the month, on which occasion Counsellor L s, deposited with his Excellency the ancient seal of State, long missing from its archives, recovered and restored by the executors of the late Josiah Hewes, a veteran member. Counsellor M s, presented to the company the fry- ing pan of the late lamented Governor Morris, it was re- ceived and deposited as an acceptable relict, which had seen much service in its owner's days. The May gala day was attended by upwards of twenty members and their friends, notwithstanding the preva- lence of a north easter, accompanied by occasional show- ers. The green budding bough and the fragrant flower orna- mented the Castle, and the pendant mandarins. Coun- sellor F r presented a suit of elegant colors, viz. an ensign, a jack, and a pendant, with characteristic pisca- tory emblems. They were immediately hoisted to the breeze on the bank in due form by the Governor and his officers, and the good old ceremony of christening announced with cheers. A vote of hearty thanks was returned for the handsome compliment. This season was remarkable for punctual attendance of members, and attention to duty. On the 15th of May, the fishing was tolerably good. Few perch were caught however until after this month, when the shad season was over. The 29th was a com- pany day, but the elements excluded fishing. On the 12th of June, upwards of twenty-five dozen were brought in by the fishermen. The 26th was less successful, the wind being N. E. and weather hazy and uupleasant. The enjoyments in doors were heightened by the circu- lation of wine, wit, story and song, until approaching eve- ning, dispersed the merry making assembly. Mr. Z. B. S a visiter, of the State of New York, produced and sung the following song, written for the occasion, introductory to his sentiment. 88 "The memory of the Founders of the State in Schuylkill." which was gravely responded to by the company, standing and uncovered. , SONG. Air. — " Believe me in all those endearing young charms.'^ Moore. Forgot be each sorrow, and business and care, From the soul free and social be driven : What the heart truly feels, sure the tongue may declare, That to pleasure these moments are given. Since this club was first form'd, 'tis a long lapse of time, But behold! how it flourishes yet! Like the Goddess of youth, it still blooms in its prime, May its sunshine of joy never set. Then a glass to their memory who laid the first stone. Of the Castle we met in to day; Here they met, and the scenes we enjoy were their own. As they chaunted life's troubles away. They are gone to their rest, but their work is still seen, Hither, members and guests, full of glee Shall resort, while the Banks of the Schuylkill are green. Or its waters glide on to the sea. 89 The months of July and August passed without the or- dinary good luck, by reason of rain or unfavorable winds, in general however, there was enough for the slender as- semblies, but no abundant supply such as the months of June and September aftbrded. On the 4th and 25th of September, the supplies of perch and catfish, were plentiful for the Company, and for a do- mestic treat. There candor and good taste never fail to acknowledge on trial, the great superiority of the fish house cookery. October 1st, the annual election at the Castle, resulted in the re-election of the old Governor, the Counsellors, Treasurer, Sheriff, Coroner, and Secretary. A committee appointed to have a number of trees planted about the ground for shade reported, the perform- ance of that important duty. May 1st 1824, twenty-six members and friends, repaired early to the pleasant grounds. According to immemorial usage, Flora contributed her verdant and luxuriant gifts from field and wood, to decorate in nature's new born beauteous attire, the interior of the Castle. The day was fine and the company cheerful and happy. The viands of fish and flesh were excellently prepared to the service of keen appetites, with an abundance of the necessary accompaniments. On Tuesday the 18th of May, a select party of upwaids of two hundred ladies and gentlemen met at the establish- ment by permission of the Governor and Council. The 12 90 elegant steam boat Delaware, Captain Whillden, was char- tered by appointed managers, and most of the gay assembly embarked on the excursion early in the morning, near South Street Wharf, and were safely transported and landed at the Rock near the Castle, which was handsome- ly fitted up and decorated for the recreative occasion. After partaking of an excellent dejeuner a la fourchette, dancing commenced, and with some short intervals for rest, or in a participation of the rich variety and abun- dance of the rural repast, continued until the reluctant hour of parting. Bands of music, enlivened the fleeting hours in this pleasant and novel excursion to the State in Schuylkill. The election was held on the 6th of October, and the former officers were unanimously re-chosen. Many gentlemen of the Company were absent, enga- ged in escorting the illustrious visiter. General Lafayette' emphatically and in truth stiled "Freedom's Friend," the Guest of the Nation, on his route to the Southward. At the March meeting 1825, held at the Governor's quarters, the following resolution offered by the Secreta- ry last October, was considered and adopted. Resolved, That it is expedient and proper, that an ac- curate journal of the proceedings of the Company on all Stated days should he kept; and that for this purpose it be hereafter the especial duty of each Caterer, to furnish the Secretary in writing, as early as possible after each meeting, with a list of attending members, and their in- 91 vited guests, the names of tUe sportsmen on duty, the number and size of tlie fish, &c. and any other interest- ing information, that the same may be duly entered on the records of State. Had such a requisition been made and in former times attended to, some useful information and minutes now forever lost, would have been transmitted to us. We might have instituted a comparison between the size, spe- cies and quantity taken in the primitive days of the Com- pany, and so for periods of time, down to the present day. It would probably appear, that whilst we have ingeniously improved in the methods of taking fish, the fish are less abundant than formerly in the river. That is the admit- ted case since the erection of the dam, barring the free passage of the migratory race of the waters. May 1st 1825. This annual festive meeting in the month of flowers, was introdued with all the genial mild- ness of welcome spring, and induced a company of 25 gentlemen to congregate at the Castle. According to ancient custom, the dining hall was de- corated early in the day, with the pride of the fields and adjacent woods, the flower of varied hue and fragrance, and the leafy budding branch, beautiful emblems of the vernal year. The fishermen who had judiciously sallied out at early dawn, leturned from their first excursion in the season about noon, with a plentiful assortment of the finny tribe in their baskets, the prized white perch predominated. 92 The hour from twelve to one, was occupied in doing justice to the excellent juicy steaks, punch, &c. prepara- tory to the scaly and skinning work of preparing the spoil of the day, for the banquet at three. That hour arrived, the company seated and satisfied their appetites at a well served festive board, which ex- hibited a display of mahogany colored fry, boiled rock and oysters, toasted shad, steaks and a fine barbacue with spiced sauce. Mirth presided, and song and story abounded, until the going down of the sun, when the well gratified company separated for their respective homes. A special meeting was called at the Governor's on the 19th of July 1825, in consequence of an intimation re- ceived of a contemplated visit by General Lafayette to the State in Schuylkill, that the necessary preparatory arrangements might be made, which the signal occasion demanded. It was Resolved, That the Governor, Council and cit- izens of the State, understanding General Lafayette and suite propose honoring them with a visit, most heartily welcome them as guests of State, on Thursday next, the 21st inst. at their Castle, at the State in Schuylkill, and that a formal invitation be oificially tendered. It was likewise resolved. That the worthy honorary members, Richard Rundle, Richard Peters. John Graff and John Hall, Esquires, should be particularly invited as guests, and the invitation extended to our townsman 93 the Honorable Richard Rush, now in the City from Wash- ington. The Boat committee were instructed forthwith to pur- chase an additional supply of crockery and glass ware. A special committee was appointed to prepare toasts for the day, and the Caterer was duly authorized to pro- vide a banquet extraordinary. On Thursday following, the appointed day Counsellor Morris, Lewis and Fisher, and Messrs. Milnor, Shoema- ker, Gerhard, Lippincott, Swift, Hart, S. P. Wetherill, Peddle and Anderson, convened at the Castle at an early hour with their visiting friends, and busied themselves in necessary preparations for the due reception of their il- lustrious guest and suite, whose approach to the confines of State, was announced about two o'clock P. M. The Company habited in the Fisherman's stile, with white linen aprons and ample straw hats, were formed in open file, facing inwards, near the north front entrance to the Castle. The three banners supported on the right. General Lafayette and suite, and the gentlemen in waiting on him as escort, deputed by the City authorities, alighted at the lines of the State. Counsellor Morris officiating as Governor, in his Excel- lency's regretted absence, received him as the guest of the State with a cordial welcome, and presented him with a certificate of honorary membership as a duly qualified citi- zen, to which he was previously unanimously elected, on the proposition of the Secretary, seconded by Mr. Morris. 94 The General was then conducted between the open files towards the Castle, near to which he was met by the Secre- tary of State, who addressed him to the following eftectj " Dear General, The Governor Council, and Citizens assembled, greet you, and the gentlemen accompanying you, with a cordial welcome to the "State in Schuyl- kill." Your visit here, completes your tour to all the States in the Union. " We possess but a limited territory and population, but there are no limits to the joy we feel on this auspicious occasion. It is now nearly a century since some of the worthiest and most eminent men of our parent Colony of Pennsylvania, associated on the Ranks of our beautiful river, and founded this Institution, with a view to occa- sional relaxation from the cares and fatigue of business. " The waters and woods furnished abundance of game, and the pursuit of it, and its preparation for the festive board, at once contributed to the delight and health of the sportsmen. "No event (save the War of the Revolution, in which you Sir, bore so distinguished a part,) ever interrupted the amusements of the Fishing and Fowling Company of the Colony in Schuylkill. " Its independence is coeval with the close of that con- test, when its surviving citizens, exchanging the sword and musket, for the angling rod, and the fowling piece, re-as- 95 sembled as Freemen, declared the Independence of the State, and adopted that admirable recorded Constitution of Government, under which like her associated sisters of the Union, she has continued to prosper, and her citizens to enjoy those sporting privileges, and frugal festivities, you will witness and partake of this day." To which brief address, the General in his usual feli- citous manner, promptly replied. " My Dear Sir, " I feel sincere pleasure in visiting your ancient Institution, so pleasantly situated on the Bank of your beautiful river. " It is the more grateful to me, as it completes my tour to all the States of the Union. " About half a century ago, I first crossed your beau- tiful stream in times of peril; far diiFerent now are the sensations I realize, in meeting my friends on so pleasant an occasion. " I feel honored by your polite invitation, and kind re- ception in your ancient and agreeable State in Schuylkill. May you long continue happy and prosperous." After being introduced to all the gentlemen assembled individually, the General and attendants refreshed them- selves with the pleasant beverage of Iced Punch, Lemon- ade, &c. and then proceeded to inspect the interior ar- rangements of the Castle, culinary establishment, fleet 96 and grounds of the Company, with which and its novelty, all expressed themselves highly delighted. Preparations were made for le banquet extraordinaire, and members and visiters sat to work industriously. The General expressed a desire as a member to do his duty, was duly invested by the Counsellors with a hat and apron, and introduced to the kitchen where he was in- itiated into business, by attention to the turning of the beef steaks on the gridiron. All were pleased with the aftability and condescension of the illustrious guest. Seldom an occasion presented itself since his arrival on our shores, for him and his com- pany and assembled visiters, to be so perfectly "at home. " The incidents of this day at the Castle, will long be remembered by all with delight, and that the names of the guests might not be forgotten, they forthwith recorded their names on the spot, and on the page which attested the acceptance by the General of honorary membership, in his proper hand writing. IN TESTIMONY of my accq^tance of Honorary Membership, of " THE FISHING COMPANY OF THE STATE IN SCHUYLKILL,'' I hereunto sub- scribe my name, and promise conformity to the Constitu- tion and Laws of the State, as far as I am enabled so to do. CASTLE, State in Schuylkill, this 9.\st day of July, A. D. 1825. LAFAYETTE. 97 Witness, the General's suite, visiters at the Castle. G. W. LAFAYETTE. LEVASSEUR. ALPH. DE SYON, Secretaire du Gl. LEFREY. He was also attended as usual in the escort, by the re- spectable committees of the Select and Common Councils of the City. The Honorable Richard Peters, and fourteen other gen- tlemen were present, as invited visiters on this auspicious occasion, and all in propria persona, recorded their names respectively in the book of the fair records of State, viz. Wm. Rush, John M'Cauley. Joseph S. Lewis, Benj. Tilghman. A. A. Browne, James C. Biddle. Joint Committee of Councils. T. M'Kean, Jno. Roberts, J. P. Wetherill, Jacob C. Wikoff, Jos. G. Nancrede, Thomas Hart, Robert Milnor, John Norvell, J. Donaldson, R. Bache, James C. Fisher, R. T. Potts, Thomas P. Roberts, and John Rakestraw, Visiters. Sansom Perot a member, and one or two others whose names are unrecorded, were present. The Company consisted of about forty persons in number. About four o'clock, dinner was announced. The table groaned beneath the weight of its viands, &c. 13 98 The usual fare of fish boiled and fried, was attended with a variety of meats, fowl, &c. as extra dishes. All fared sumptuously; and after the several courses were cleared, the following toasts prepared for the occasion, were drank, interspersed with song and story. Judge Peters', witticisms were happy and enlivening, and he sang several excellent songs with eftect, to the delight of his veteran friend and revolutionary companion Lafayette. TOASTS. NATIONAL aRATITUDE.— The brightest jewel in a Nations diadem. THE HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.— Living or dead, their glory is imperishable. THE MEMORY OF OUR FATHER.— WJiSH INGTON. THE MEMORY OF GOVERNOR MORRIS— Who for nearly fifty years presided hei-e; ever present.* THE NAVY OF THE UNITED STATES.— It has gloriously steered its own course to National respect, and the world's applause. OUR ARMY. — Composed of freemen, appreciating their rights, and capable of defending them. OUR SISTER STATES.— May they severally re- * In allusion to an excellent bust of the venerable de- ceased, by Rush on a pedestal behind the Governor's seat at the north end of the Castle. member the sage admonition oF IVashmgton, that " In union, consists the strength and durability of the Nation- al edifice." LIBERTY.— Cradled in our Country; in half a centu- ry she has attained the vigor of an Hercules, and extirpa- ted the monster Tyranny, in both the Americas. THE STATE IN SCHUYLKILL.— Her sportive citizens, may be proud of their ancestry, and should prove themselves worthy descendants. OUR COUNTRY.— The prized home of the native; the vvrelcome retreat of the oppressed. FRANCE. — Our magnanimous Ally; the Country of LAFAYETTE. OUR DISTINGUISHED GUEST, AND THE NA- TION'S.—The name of LAFAYETTE, is engraven on every heart; a worthy associate of his great military Fa- ther. THE LOVELY FAIR OF THE LAND.— It would be unfair ever to forget, or neglect them. VOLUNTEERS. By GENERAL LAFAYETTE.— The whole popula- tion of the State in Schuylkill, and the aSectionate alle- giance of a newly adopted fellow citizen. By G. W. LAFAYETTE.— A dinn-r cooked in the field; may the soldiers of liberty alwavs lind such a one. By COUNSELLOR LEWIS.— George Washington Lafayette; the worthy son of a beloved father. 100 By A VISITER.— The memory of Napoleon. His misfortunes are proofs, that public opinion must triumph. The General and suite reluctantly parted from the agreeable State in Schuylkill, and its happy population, but not until the sun had long sunk in the West. Copy of a letter of invitation to General Lafayette, sent pursuant to instruction, the day preceding his visit. " Dear Sir, " The Governor, Council and Citizens of the State in Schuylkill, understanding that yourself and suite pro- pose to favor them with a visit at their Castle to-morrow, have requested me officially to express to you the high gratification your presence will afford them. "As Caterer of the day, I have the honor to bid you all a most hearty welcome to our ancient establishment. With the highest respect. Your obedient Servant, WILLIAM MILNOR, Jr. Sec'ry. of State.'" GENERAL LAFAYETTE, July 20th, 1825. 101 Letters of apology for absence were received from our townsman, R. Rush, Esq. late Minister to the Court of St. James, and from our late worthy and much respected member, John Graff, Esq. Mr. Rush left the City for Washington, agreeably to previous arrangement on the same day, and by a casuality, Mr. Graflf's note of in- vitation was not received by him until too late to join in the festivities of the Castle. In a letter addressed next morning to the Secretary, he says: " You cannot judge of the mortification and downright vexation which I felt at the abominable neglect of the letter carrier, in not delivering it, in due time, which has prevented me from enjoying a satisfaction and honor which I should have prized as one of the happiest circum- stances of my life. Have the goodness to advise the Governor and Council of the contents of this note, and assure them of my continued high respect and esteem for them and all the company." Want of due notice and other causes prevented the at- tendance of other honorary members, in town and country. The Secretary pursuant to instructions from the Govern- or and Counsellors of State, procured a certificate of mem- bership, to be elegantly executed on parchment, which he subsequently presented to the General, when on the eve of bidding our citizens farewell, which together with the straw hat and aproyi presented to, and worn by him at the Castle, 102 (on both of which his name, and that of the Company, the date of its foundation, and of his election, were suitably inscribed,) all these, as he was pleased to say, " he esteem- ed as amongst his most valuable presents," expressing his intention to wear the honorable badges of a member of the State in Schuylkill, on fishing excursions, on his return, sensibly to remind him of his happy visit, and the high honor conferred. They were forwarded by him to La Grange^ his family residence in France. COPY OF THE CERTIFICATE. WE DO CERTIFY, That at a Special meeting of the Governor, Council and Citizens of the Schuylkill Fishing Company, held at their CASTLE, in the STATE IN SCHUYLKILL, on Thursday July 21st, 1825. GENERAL LAFAYETTE, our Nation's Guest, Was unanimously elected an Honorary Member. Certified from the records of State. T. MORRIS. First Counsellor, and Governor pro. tem. Attested by WILLIAM MILNOR, Jr. , Secretary of State. 103 The old officers were re-chosen at the October election 18£5, and seven members elect, were respectively qualified according to ancient usage. His Excellency the Governor, presided over the interesting ceremonials. On the 14th of September 1826, a visiter obligingly volunteered his services as a water-fowling sportsman, and brought in about fifty rail birds the sorees of the South in excellent condition, which he killed on League Island marsh, near the confluence of the Schuylkill and Delaware rivers. It reminded one of the primitive days of the Com- pany, the revival of a sister sport, obsolete since the War of the Revolution, when the extensive surrounding woods were destroyed by the foe, and their furred and feathered tenants more remotely dispersed. A dntm fish highly recommended as a good substitute for a rock fish, was this day experimented on, and aban- doned after being richly dressed in the lobster stile, as un savory to epicurean taste, and somewhat difficult of mas- tication, being literally speaking, as tough as a drum head. It would have been equally palatable perhaps to those ap- preciating the delicacy, if dressed in the savage custom, with train oil. Its formidable skeleton, (certainly the best part of it,) is preserved, as a memento to future Caterers, and as a natural curiosity, amongst the relics of the ocean, and of foreign climes, which decorate the Castle. In October 1826, a re-election took place of all the offi cers, several new members were chosen, and others pro 104 posed for the probation list; of whom, a part were elected, and others withdrawn by request, at the election in 1827- At the May meeting in the next year, Governor Whar- ton, being in years and in precarious health, tendered his resignation of office and membership, which was accepted with emotions of regret. A vote of thanks was presented him, for his valuable and zealous services as Governor, for the last sixteen years, during which, period he was like his great prede- cessor, always re-elected with unanimity. Thomas Morris, Esq. was forthwith elected his succes- sor, and promotions followed amongst other officers. The season of 1828, was tolerably productive. March meeting 1829, was held on the 27th, at the house of Thomas Evans', George Street, which was unanimous- ly attended, and the prospective orders taken, for the usual business of the year. The Schuylkill this season yielded abundantly. In June, S. N. G a member and a visiting friend, in one boat, returned with twenty-Jive dozen fine large perch: some of them measuring twelve and thirteen inches, and on another day in the same month, another member W. M , and friend, took and brought in at eleven o'clock A. M. a bushel basket full, containing upwards of twenty -seven dozen of fish, twenty -three dozen of which were white perch, many of them of extraordinary size for river fish, averaging from ten to thirteen and a half inches. One morning a gentleman fortunately threw his line 105 into a running school of perch opposite the Castle, and hooked and secured five perch at a haul, all of remarka- ble size. On several days, there was a display of from fifty to seventy-five dozen fish, enough and to spare for friends and neighbours, who cheerfully partook of the loaves and fishes. A. D. 1829. And of the Fishing Company the 97th. On the 7th of October, the annual election was held at the Castle, and the old tried officers who were not found wanting in the exercise of official duties, were honored by a unanimous re-election to their respective stations. The Company now consists of twenty-four enrolled, and for the most part, efficient members. Several gentlemen are emulous recorded candidates, for the honor of elevation from a state of trial and probation as anglers, to the rights and immunities of membership. That there are many imperfections and omissions in the present detail of past events will not be denied, but minute correctness in many instances was unattainable. Great dili gence has been used to avoid errors, and obtain correct in formation from all best capable of imparting it, particularlj of gentlemen of advanced years and lively reccollections, whose memories have been fully taxed. That recourse 14 106 became indispensable to fill many a chasm deep and wide, in the existing imperfect records, which have been trans- mitted to us through the chances and perils of several gen- erations. The compiler's acknowledgments are due and tendered, for the kind assistance afforded by the recollec- tive faculties of the venerable William Hall, Esq. proba- bly the oldest Printer living in the United States, elected a member of the Company in 1782, from the late John Graff", Esq. formerly the able Deputy Collector of the Cus- toms of the Port, a member in 1791, from William West and the late James Ash, Esquires, and more recently from John Goodman, Esq. of the Northern Liberties, to whom he is indebted for many interesting particulars relative to Fort St. David's, and its rude interior embellishments. He represents the edifice of that name, well known and oft resorted to in his juvenile days, as an oblong wooden building, painted brown, resting on a stone foundation, built on a long high rock in the river, fronting the Falls, large enough to accommodate a numerous company, ap- proached by a flight of spacious steps having a large door in the centre, and ample windows for light and air. A square cupulo rose from the roof, containing a bell, and was surmounted with a spire, a ball, and an emblematic rock fish serving as a vane. The towering flag staff* stood on the elevated hill to the north, on which his Majesty's flag was displayed on Company days, and served as a gladsome token for a desirable visit to many of the socia- ble people of Roxborough and Germantown, old and young 107 of both sexes, who were never sent empty away from the hospitable quarters of the cheerful and liberal garrison. They possessed a tolerable museum, the only one then in Pennsylvania, consisting of a great variety of foreign and domestic natural and artificial curiosities, many of the latter relating to the aborigines, as tomahawks, bows, quivers and arrows, belts of wampum, wooden bowls, dish- es, &c. &c. and paintings representing an Indian King and Queen, &c. The predatory Hessians nuder General Kniphausen quartered in the vicinity of rock fish Inn, now known as the Falls tavern, plundered the place of every thing, not secured before their ill omened arrival, and pulled down and used part of the building for bar- racks, leaving a mere wreck for the flames. The compiler of the present historic sketch, might with propriety here close the prolix account of the pro- ceedings of this long lived prosperous Institution. It may however afford some relief to the tiresome and unavoida- ble uniformity of detail in the relation of facts from minu- ted and documentary evidence, for the general informa- tion of the reader and of present and future members, to advert briefly to some unrecorded but well defined and all essential usages, a rigid adherence to which, has preserved and will continue to preserve it from degeneracy or disso- lution. Admission to the honor of membership, is by no means easy of accomplishment. Candidates are very soon pro- posed to fill vacancies occasionally occurring, from the 108 many persons in waiting solicitous of the honor. No gentlemen is placed on the probation roll, until a majori- ty of at least eight members present signify approval. In this situation of apprenticeship to the art trade and mystery of becoming a worthy, expert, and useful citi- zen of the fishing commonwealth, he remains for six months at least, and frequently much longer, for strict trial and just approval. In order to be duly admitted to all the rights and immunities of full citizenship, a majori- ty of the votes of the whole State must appear in his favor. He is then qualified and admitted according to ancient form, the secret mystical ceremonies of which are alarmingly interesting, although not of the masonic charac- ter; and therefore it is to be hoped, unembraced by the rife denouncing spirit of the times. The stated days during the fishing season, are on each Thursday fortnight, between the first day of May and the first Wednesday in October, and from time to time is changed by the Governor and Council, on account of ad- verse tides. Every member who purposes making one of the company at the Castle, repairs to the Governor's quarters, before the hour of eighty on the previous eve- nings and records his name and that of a friend if he pleases, on a slate, for the due information and regulation of the Purveyor or Caterer of the day, which important duty is alternately performed by every member. He ob- tains the list of his company, the keys, &c. and provides accordingly, frugally and abundantly, and all catered for 109 are required to contribute equally. The only meat pro- vided is sirloin beef steaks, and an occasional barbacue for a large company, or when little dependence can be placed on success in fishing regulated and affected as it is by changes of the ever varying wind, tide, weather and season. Rock and shad are always acceptable, and are either boiled or toasted on thick oak planks, provided for the purpose. It is made the especial duty of the Caterer to repair to his post before ten A. M. and he is there assisted by mem- bers in the discharge of the multifarious duties of the day. An exquisite refreshing luncheon is provided by the hour of twelve, when the weary fishermen return in their boats from their respective excursions, and exhibit their various successj viz. a plain hot beef steak without any addenda but seasoning of cayenne and salt at the table. No one, not even the Governor himself, arriving after one o'clock, can partake of this simple and excellent meal. It is known that sero venientibus ossa, of course the wholesome regulation conduces to early arrivals, and the liberal extension of the privilege of participating in the busy scene preparatory to the dinner. An interval of two or three hours is pretty industriously employed, un- der the supreme direction of the Caterer, as chief master of ceremonies pro tem. no Every member is provided with his own batteau and appendages, or holds them in copartnership with a friend, and furnishes himself with a large brimmed straw or chip hat and apron, rods, fishing tackle, and other convenient arma piscatoria, a chest, locker, angling box, &c. and is especially particular to provide his own prepared bait, the common earth worm, for he will most likely be dis- appointed, if he expects to borrow. So that every gentlemen having an ample supply for himself and the accommodation of visiting friends, no one is dependant on his neighbour. In Cotton's Poems, published in 1689, is the following stanza's entitled to a place here. " Away to the brook. All your tackle out look, Here's a day that is worth a year's wishingj See that all things be right. For 'twould be a spight To want tools when a man goes a fishing. The day's not too bright. And the wind hits us right. And all nature does seem to invite us; We have all things at will For to second our skill. As they all did conspire to delight us. Ill Away then, away, We lose sport by delay, But first leave all our sorrow's behind us; If Miss Fortune should come, We are all gone from home, And a fishing she never can find us." It is surely laudable to use, and confessedly sinful to abuse the high privileges and prerogatives of our nature, so it is evidently censorious and highly illiberal to anath- metize the practice of appropriating to our use, individu- ally or collectively in a temperate and well regulated in- stitution, the bounteous gifts of a wise and benificent Creator, who hath said, that his creature man " should have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.''^ Charles Cotton, Esq. the worthy contemporary and friend of good old Isaac Walton, and like him filled with the amor piscator, in the stanza of a poem addressed to him in 1676 inviting him to visit him at his retreat, one hundred miles distant and renew their sport, when Isaac was in his eighty-third year, happily describes the best time to enjoy it, " A day, with not too bright a beam, A warm but not a scorching sun, A southern gale to curl the stream, And, master, half our work is done. " The industrious fisherman is alert and on duty about the rising of the sun. It is all in^portant to be soon on the ground, as fish are known to be more voracious, and in active quest of food at early dawn after a night of rest. hompson sagely advises the angler, "When with his lively ray the potent Sun Has pierc'd the streams, and rous'd the tinny race, Then issuing cheerful to thy sport repair." Attention to the admonition of the rural Poet, enables him to return by noon, (the prescribed period of rendez- vous) to the Castle, with the pride of industry and success, from the piscatory sport: " When the sun Shakes from his noon-day throne the scattering clouds, E'en shooting listless langour thro' the deeps." In olden times it was not unusual, as we are well as- sured, for some adepts at the sport, to proceed the eve- ning before the stated day, to the establishment, to enjoy a Soldiers birth under a tent without, or a poor Travel- lers, on a soft plank within. An expert fishermen will frequently take from^^i'eto twenty dozen fish, chiefly the delicious white perch, and sometimes the aggregate number brought in, amounted be- fore removal of the Castle tojifty, eighty, or one hundred 113 dozen. There is generally since, an abundant supply. The plumb line is the favorite, with a snood of horse hair, with from three to six small hooks, mounted on a tapering angling rod, of from twenty to twenty -five feet in length. The deep sea is used in deep water, merely as an extra line to be only occasionally observed, and is generally found to secui'e at ebb tide, a quantity of fine blue catfish, esteemed most excellent from the pure spring waters of Schuylkill . Our good housewives would be amused at the singular spectacle of a busy group, with coats off, or in summer roundabouts, and the other comfortable and very conveni- ent disguise of a fisherman's equipment. She might too with reason notice, gross innovations on the established usages of the domestic culinary department. The rules however, with seeming ungallantry, exclude their amia- ble presence on these occasions, and the attention of gen- tlemen is undiverted from other less agreeable duty on Company days, in which all are expected to engage, be- cause all participate in the succeeding festive and exhile- rating enjoyments. It is very properly contra regulam et rationem, either to cleanse the steaks by loashing off the exuding juices^ before they are committed to the gridiron, or io facilitate their escape by puncture with a common fork in frequent tuining, or to butter the chosen /a^ beef, or sprinkle it with high seasoning in the process, nor are they taken off the coals, until the ^'■Ho! steaks ready^^ note of preparation 15 114 is given. The fisherman's palates, from custom perhaps, relishing them best in a very heated and not overdone state. Not so at home, servants usually enjoy their's cold^ and why not their master's? The abundant reasons exist- ing for these proper omissions and customs, are very obvi- ous to the understanding, and too manifest on experiment, to need explanation or windy argument. The substantial proof is however to be discovered in the comfortable ex- periment. It is not expected by these remarks to prevail on our do- mestic cooks, to imitate the many extraordinary innovations of self taught unprofessional gentlemen, catering for their oivn taste and enjoyment. This is not all, the fish are fried in the best butter of the market, to a brown color, and never shapelessly broken by turning; but in regular- ly laid rows and adhering to each other, and not to the pan, are dexterously tossed in the same compact form, with great ease, after a little practice, to the surprise and ad- miration of spectators. Again, drawn or melted butter is made in perfect puri- ty, without any of the usual additions of flour and water forming an unpalatable compound of liquid, batter and oil. The pound is reduced in a vessel by gradual heat and slow turning, and retains its original taste and color, without being transmuted to oil. However accord- ing to the old proverb ^'every one to his taste, ^-c. Use re- conciles us to abuse. This is not considered as a depart- ure from ordinary economical practices at the Castle, though it might be deemed so in a private family. 115 The Castle and grounds, are free to every member for a private party at all seasons. The Governor's permission is obtained for a fixed day, and all intrusion or accident- al interference is thus avoided. These select private parties afford a delightful treat to the Ladies, particularly in strawberry season. The de- licious fruit and rich cream, is obtained in abundance from the premises, or any of the many vegetable and fruit farms in the vicinity. Here they may amuse themselves pleasantly in rural seclusion, free from all intrusion, either by tripping the light fantastic toe, by promenading over the shady grounds on the banks of the river, or by a water excursion to Gray's Ferry, or to the celebrated and ro- mantic gardens of Bartram, (now Col. Carr's) on the op- posite western shore. The character of the Schuylkill Fishing Company is elevated above reproach. Its venerable age and eminent respectability, are its bulwarks against the common enemy of the most exemplary individuals and best society every where, calumnious report. Its foundations were laid deep and permanent on a rock by those who cherished the moral, virtues, and were as eminent as citizens of exemplary deportment in civil life, as they and many of their successors were honora- bly conspicuous in patriotism. In the TVar of the Revolution, very many of the gentle- men of the Colony in Schuylkill as has been already re- marked, ofiicered or served in the continental army and in the Pennsvlvania militia, viz. 116 Major Samuel Nicholas of the Marine Corps. Lt. Anthony Morris, of the militia, killed at the battle of Princeton. Lt. Col. William Bradford. Captains John Graff and John Wharton of the militia. Captain Tench Francis, of the rifle corps, &c. Several others appeared in the ranks of the Quaker and Silk Stocking Companies, so designated on account of the wealth or high standing of the spirited gentlemen general- ly composing those corps, raised in the city, and in other volunteer corps of infantry, at a crisis in affairs vvhen neu- trality was treason, and every patriot citizen buckled on his armour, and prepared to defend his home and the in- estimable liberties of a country, dear to him by birlh or adoption. In the late war especially, many of the military disposed citizens of the State in Schuylkill, evincing the aynor patrise, marched to the tented field, some officering and some volunteering as privates, were enrolled in the troop, and in infantry corps, marched to and encamped at Camp Dupont, prepared for active operations, to repelling inva- sion, or for any emergency. The patriots motto was engraven on every heart, " Pret pour mon pays. " As illustrative of the prevailing esprit de corps of the citi- 117 zens of State, be it remembered, that her venerable Gov- ernor WHARTON of the State in Schuylkill, Mayor of Philadelphia, then late commander of the First Troop, and at that time Brigadier General elect, volunteered and served in the campaign of 1814, at Mount Bull in the ranks, under his friend and successor, Captain Charles Boss, formerly his First Lieutenant. The present esteemed commander of the Troop, Cap- tain Hart, is now a private citizen of the State. A strong affinity has ever existed between these civil and military associations, and under every consideration the ties of ancestral relationship, and continued good fellow- ship, ought to bind them and their successors to cultivate and maintain the generous and friendly dispositions of social intercourse. In the blameless diversions of the institution, indulged in but occasionally by its members, as a relaxation from the severer duties of society and the ordinary business of life, to which return from the Castle's recreations is made with renewed ardor and zest, none but the fastidious and morose, themselves incapable of the like innocent enjoy- ment, can find cause of the slightest censure. The proverb is a wise one, tested by universal experi- ence; that, " Unbending the bow preserves its elasticity and strength.^' If business was usually neglected for the mere indul- gence of pleasure, or habits of dissipation or extravagance were formed by the association, a sentence of condemnation 118 would have gone forth and long since sealed its fate in merited silent oblivion. But it is otherwise, and so long as any friendly associ- ations for innocent recreative enjoyments unalloyed by the pernicious vices of idleness and intemperance, are per- mitted to exist in society, " THE SCHUYLKILL FISH- ING COMPANY, OF THE STATE IN SCHUYL- KILL," will be hailed with the fostering voice of approval, by every liberal minded gentleman in society. 119 RULES AND REGULATIONS THE SCHUYLKILL FISHING COMPANY. ARTICLE I. This Company shall not consist of more than twenty- five members. ARTICLE II. The officers of this Company shall consist of a Govern- or, three Counsellors, Treasurer, Secretary, Sheriff and Coroner, who shall be chosen, by ballot, at the annual meeting, to be held on the first Wednesday in October, in every year. ARTICLE III. The Governor and officers before named, shall be a Standing Committee, to attend to the general interests of the Company. 120 ARTICLE IV. In the absence of the Governor, one of the officers afore- named shall presidej having regard to the order in vv^hich they are placed in Article 2. ARTICLE V. The presiding officer, in case ot any question which shall come before the Company, when there is an equality of votes, shall be entitled to an extra vote, in order to determine the same. ARTICLE VI. The Treasurer shall collect and receive all fines, taxes or penalties, and shall pay all warrants drawn on him by the Governor or Standing Committee; shall keep exact and just accounts, and shall deliver them in for settle- ment, at the meeting in March annually. ARTICLE VIL The Secretary shall keep the books, records and papers of the State, and shall enter the proceedings in form in the minute book, and shall perform all the duties usually attendant on such an office. ARTICLE VIII. Within three days after the annual election, the Secre- tary shall notify each officer, in writing, of his, as well 121 as the new members of their election; designating each oflBcer by the office to which he shall be appointed. ARTICLE IX. The regular meetings of the Company shall be held as follows, viz. — One in the month of March, on such day as may be fixed by the Governor or Standing Committee, when the Treasurer shall bring an estimate of the sum necessary to meet the expenses of the current year, and the tax shall then be assessed:— One on the first day of May, as the commencement of the fishing season, when the officers present shall appoint the fishing days, which are to be held once in every fortnight, during the said season: — And one on the first Wednesday in October, as mentioned in the 2d article. ARTICLE X. There shall be a Purveyor, who shall take his turn in rotation, beginning with the oldest member. ARTICLE XL At the annual meeting in October, each member shall have a ticket delivered to him by the Secretary, for which he shall pay two dollars, whether he attend or not. ARTICLE XII. Every member shall be at liberty to invite a friend at any meeting of the Company, except at the stated March 16 122 meeting, paying for him the same quota as is paid by the membersj it also being understood that each member will use a due discretion, in not inviting too frequently a res- ident of Philadelphia, the intention of this permission being only to admit citizens occasionally, and strangers who may visit the city. ARTICLE XIII. Each member, before he can visit the Company, shall put his name (and that of his friend, if he takes one) on the slate at the Governor's, before eight o'clock of the evening previous to the meeting. ARTICLE XIV. Whoever shall be appointed on any Committee, and shall refuse his services, or shall neglect attending on the same, shall be fined at the pleasure of the Governor and officers. ARTICLE XV. Any person deemed worthy by a member to become one of our Company, shall be proposed at any regular meeting, where not less than eight members are present, when if a majority agree to place him on the list of candi- dates to be voted for at the general election, he shall be so placed ; but otherwise he shall not be considered as eligible. 123 ARTICLE XVI. All candidates for membership shall be proposed at least six months previous to the annual election, and shall only be ballotted for on that day, when he must have a majority of the whole State in his favor. ARTICLE XVII. Any person placed upon the list of candidates, may be at liberty, without the invitation of a member, to visit the Company on fishing days, previously putting his name upon the slate at the Governor's, before eight o'clock of the evening preceding the meeting. ARTICLE XVIII. Any member, having an account against the Company, who does not present it previous to the March meeting, shall forfeit the same: and any member who shall not pay his taxes, or fines, previous to the same day, or shall otherwise oftend against the honor and dignity of the State, may be expelled, with the approbation of two-thirds of the members; and in case of expulsion, shall never be re- ceived again. ARTICLE XIX. No member shall visit the Castle with a party, or shall make use of the boats, or other property of the State, without first obtaining permission from the Governor; and he shall pay a reasonable compensation to the Treasurer 124 for the wood he may expend, or the crockery, &c. &c. which may be injured, and shall leave the Castle and the utensils in cleanly order. ARTICLE XX. The expenses of the March meeting, and such meetings as may be specially called in the city, shall be paid out of the public stock. . , . ARTICLE XXI. It shall be the duty of the Purveyor to leave the key of the Wood house with the Governor, to be delivered by him to the next Purveyor, or to such member as he may permit to visit the Castle, who shall be bound to return it; and if he should neglect so to do, he shall be fined at the pleasure of the Governor and officers. ARTICLE XXII. The Governor is respectfully requested to make a mem- orandum of the names of sirch members as he may per- mit to visit the Castle, to enable the Treasurer to col- lect the dues for the expenditure of the wood, &c. ARTICLE XXIII. The Committee of Repairs for the present year [1811] are directed to have a closet put up, with a substantial lock and key, and suitable jugs, &c. for the reception of such stores as may be left after the usual fishing days, to 125 remain for the use of the Company, on any other fishing day they may be wanted. ARTICLE XXIV, Each member on his admission shall pay ten dollars to the Treasurer. ARTICLE XXV. All former laws and resolutions of the State or Coun- cil, are hereby repealed. 126 MEMBERS OF THE SCHUYLKILL FISHING COMPANY, YEAR 98, A. D. 1830. THOMAS MORRIS, Governor. Joseph S. Lewis, Is^ Counsellor. William Gerhard. - - - William W. Fisher, 2fZ Counsellor. Thomas Shoemaker, ^d Counsellor. Samuel N. Lewis, Treasurer. William Milnor, Jr. - Charles Watson. Samuel N. Gray, Sheriff. - John Swift. .... Cornelius Stevenson. - William H. Hart. - Samuel P. Wetherill. ELECTED 18th March, 1800. 12th May, 1803. 1st October, 1807. 2d October, 1811. 30th April, 1814. 5th October, 1814. 2nd October, 1816. 7th October, 1818. 30th March, 1822. 2nd October, 1822. 2nd October, 1822. 2nd October, 1822. 1st October, 1823. 127 Benjamin S. Bonsall. William A. Peddle, Secretary. William V. Anderson, Coroner. Henry Lentz. - Sansom Perot. - - - Joseph S. Snowden. - John P. WetheriU. - Robert T. Potts. Joseph Donaldson. Charles WetheriU. - William WetheriU. - 1st October, 1823. 1st October, 1823. 16th October, 1824. 7th October, 1825. 7th October, 1825. 4th October, 1826. 4th October, 1826. 3d October, 1827. 3d October, 1827. 1st October, 1828. 7th October, 1829. ■'^m '^A^ f:mi^ tl i MEMOIRS (^ln\xtt0ttt Jpojc l^unting Clui^, NEAR PHILADELPHIA. Delightful scene! Where all around is gay — men, horses, dogsj And in each smiling countenance appears Fresh blooming health, and universal joy. Huntsman, lead on! THE CHASE. PHILADELPHIA: PUBLISHED BY JUDAH DOBSON. 1830. £asteru District ol Pennsylvania, to wit : BE IT REMEMBERED, that, on tlie nineteenth day of April, in the fifty-fourth year of tlie Independence of the United States of Aniericaj A. D. 1830, JuDAH DoBsoN, of the said disuict, hath deposited in tliis ofhce the title of a book, the right whereof he claims as proprietor, in tlie words fol- lowing, to wit :— " Memoirs of the Gloucester Fox Hunting Club, near Philadelphia. ' Delightful scene ! Where all around is gay— men, horses, dogs ; And in each smiling countenance appears Fresh blooming healih, cuid universal joy. Huntsman, lead on:' The Chasb." In conformity to the act of the Congress of the United States, entitled " An Act for the encouragement of learning, by securing Uie copies of maps, charts, and books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies, during the tiuies tlierein mentioned"— And also to the Act, entitled "An Act supplementaiy to an Act, entitled, ' An Act for the eucouargement of learning, by securing the copies of maps, charts, and books, to the autliuis and proprietors of such copies during the times therein mentioned,' and extending tlie benefits thereof to the arts of designing, engraving, and etching historical and other [irints." D. CALDWELL, Clerk of the Eastern Distiici of Pennsylvania. TO ROBERT WHARTON, ESQUIRE, THE LAST PRESIDENT OF THE LATE GLOUCESTER FOX HUNTING CLUB, The present brief account of the origin, and some of the pleasant excursions of its patrons and associates, fondly remembered and participated in with you, in your more active and sprightly days, is with lively emotions of plea- sure dedicated. Your example of feats of intrepid horsemanship in the rugged course of the enlivening hunts in Jersey, excited the emulation and elicited the applause of your numerous younger friends and companions, by whom you were ad- mired, and to whom you became endeared; thus exempli- fying a happy union of amiable sociability of disposition in intercourse, and dignity of deportment in command, as their Chief in the chase, and President in the agreeable concluding exercises at the banquet. So long as life endures, and memory maintains her em- pire, the recollection of those sportive days and scenes must impart inexpressible delight. To you, Sir, therefore, these memoirs are gratefully and properly inscribed, by your young hunting companion, and ~ Sincere friend. THE AUTHOR, MEMOIRS GLOUCESTER FOX HUNTING CLUB. This pleasant association was composed of many high- ly respectable gentlemen, resident chiefly in the city of Philadelphia and partly in Gloucester County, New Jer- sey, opposite the metropolis. It originated as most of these pleasurable Institutions do, from accidental causes. The reciprocities of social intercourse between the hospitable gentlemen of landed property in the blessed retirement of a country life, and the less secluded liberal minded friends, over the river, confined to their respective vocations in the rising city of Penn, laid the foundation of an association of the most delightful character, and of considerable permanency. Visits and dinner parties were interchanged, and friend- ships of an enduring nature arose, promotive of mutual felicity. Many of these our sportive ancestors, might truly say with Blair, " Friendship! mysterious cement of the soul! Svveet'ner of life, and solder of society! I owe thee much." Elegant society was then comparatively limited, the occasional intercourse of congenial minds, gave a zest to the relaxing hours, devoted to active recreation and cheer- ful conviviality. If the country gentleman was unable to display the sumptuous variety of a city feast and its ac- companiments in viands and wine, at his welcome bounte- ous board, he could do something more exquisite, furnish on his own domains or his accommodating neighbours, good hounds, horses and a Fox hunt, to beget lively enjoy- ment before, and a lively appetite at the approaching repastj to be succeeded by that sound and refreshing slumber, pro- duced by wholesome exercise. We have reference to a very early period in our histo- ry, and that of our sister colony of New Jersey, whose shores and ours, are divided and laved by the current of the majestic Delaware. The occasional unregulated private hunts, obtained for many years, until from the scion thus early planted, was produced a tree of many branches, and high flavored fruit, under the delightful shade of which we have oft as- sembled at early dawn, with a merry train of well mounted sportive gentlemen; when as Gay beautifully expresses it, " The healthy huntsman, with a cheerful horn, Summons the dogs, and greets the dappled morn; The jocund thunder wakes th' enliven'd hounds. They rouse from sleep, and and answer sounds for sounds." The War of the Revolution dispersed most of the mem- bers of the Club, and consequently suspended active op- erations on the theatre of sport. Its shrill trumpet sum- moned the chivalrous hunter from the pleasures of the chase, to the severer and all important duties of the field. The call was heard and promptly obeyed. The intrepid hunter's spirit became the soldier's, and with very few exceptions, the club entered with an ardor and alacrity worthy of patriot souls into the service of the noble cause of an oppressed country. No less than tiventy-two of the club associated and viz. formed the "First Troop of Philadelphia City Cavalry" its President SAML. MORRIS, Captain.— }o\\n Dunlap, Cornet. — Thomas Leiper, First Serjeant. — Samuel How- ell, Jr. First Corporal. — Levi Hollingsvvorth, John Mease, Blair M'Clenachan, Thomas Peters, James Caldwell, Samuel Caldwell, John Lardner, Alexander Nesbit, Jon- athan Penrose, George Graff, John Boyle, James Mease, Isaac Cox, Thomas Bond, William Turnbull, John Mitch- ell, Joseph Wilson and David Potts, nearly all of whom faithfully served in the troop, in the memorable campaigns of '76 and '77. So that it appears indisputably, on in- spection of records, that the troop originated in, and was chiefly composed of, and officered by the Fox hunting gentlemen of the Gloucester Club, and members of the old Schuylkill Fishing and Fowling Company: and many of the sporting gentlemen on the muster roll, it seems belonged at that time, to both associations. The history of a grateful country records of them gen- erous devotion and eminent service in the field, their appropriate sphere of action. Almost every member of both companies, usefully served in various other military and some in distinguished civil departments. An old ante- revolution register of proceedings of the Hunting Club extant, exhibits its highly respectable origin and success- ful progress. We feel great pleasure in recurring to, and making from it some extracts. Some of our worthy ancestors of the city of Penn, elated with the sport, and the ordinary success of the hunts, in a country stocked with game, and in the imme- diate vicinity of the metropolis, convened a meeting at the Philadelphia Coffee House, S. W. corner of Front and Market Streets, in 1766, to organize a'regufar club. The following is a part of the fair records of proceedings made at that period, in good preservation. Philada. 9Qth October, 1766. We the subscribers, being about to provide and keep a kennel of Fox Hounds, do mutually agree with each other in manner following, viz. 1st. — That each of us do agree to pay into the hands of such persons of the company, as shall be hereafter ap- pointed, the sum of five pounds current money, for the purposes aforesaid. 2d — That as soon as a sufficient number of gentlemen have subscribed, we will call a general meeting of the company and agree by a majority of voices, to such rules and regulations, as will be most likely to answer the in- tended purpose. Benjamin Chew, pr. order. John Dickinson, Thomas Lawrence, Moor Furman, Enoch Story, Charles Willing, Thomas Willing, pr. order. Levi Hollingsworth, James Wharton, Thomas Mifflin, William Parr, Israel Morris, Jr. Tench Francis, David Rhea, Robert Morris, John White, John Cadwallader, Samuel Morris, Jr. Anthony Morris, Jr. Turbot Francis, pr. order. Zebulon Rudulph, Richard Bache, Isaac Wikoft", Joseph Wood, David Potts, Samuel Nicholas, Andrew Hamilton. (27) The contemplated first meeting of the Fox Hunting Club, was held on December 13th, 1766, at James Mas- sey's; Present. 8 James Wharton, Joseph Wood, Charles Willing, Richard Bache, Samuel Morris, Tench Francis, pr E. Story. Anthony Morris, D. Rhea, pr J. Cadwaliader. Samuel Nicholas, David Beveridge, do. Zeb. Rudulph, Andrew Hamilton, do. John Cadwaliader, Moor Furman, pr S. M. Israel Morris, Robert Morris, pr R, Bache. Levi HoUingsworth, Enoch Story, " The above gentlemen met by appointment at the kennel in order to agree upon some regulations in the Hunting Club, for the present year, to commence 1st January 1767, and continue until 1st January 1768. And managers being necessary, the following gentlemen are appointed, viz:" Tench Francis, Samuel Morris, Enoch Story, Richard Bache. James Wharton. , "" " And it is agreed there shall be two hunting days in each week, which shall be on Tuesdays and Fridays. A majority of the managers shall appoint (if they think ne- cessary) any intermediate days for hunting in the week, and give the Company notice. " The managers now chosen, will attend as well to the good government of the house as a tavern, as the keeping the dogs proper for exercise. " A majority of the Company on one hunting day, i. e. present^ shall appoint the ground and place to hunt the succeeding day, and so in rotation. " The managers shall be enabled to pay James Massey our present huntsman, any sum they may think necessary for keeping the dogs, and attending the Company as hunts- man, and if there should not from the present sum raised, be sufficient to pay the demands on the Company, they do each agree to pay all just demands, by a proportionate subscription, part and share alike. "It is agreed, that at the death of every Fox, one of the Company shall carry about a Cap, to collect what the company may please to give the huntsman. " At any hunt, if the managers, or any of them are present, they shall prevent the Company from crossing the dogs, when they are dragging; if no manager is pre- sent, the Company shall choose one of themselves to di- rect. " The Company agree to make good all damages that may be done from hunting, and it is recommended to the Company to meet at the kennell, the mornings intended to hunt, and at all other times, that may be suitable. By Order of the Managers, J. MORRIS, Sec'ry." The eagerness of our active enterprising and hardy an- 2 10 cestors, so frequently to partake of the pleasures of the chase, disrelished and scarcely even thought of, by the fashionable inactive gallants of the present day, abated in the revolution of a year, to one hunting day, in each week, instead of two^ and other occasional intervening hunts. It was worthy of their prudential wisdom. " Voluptates coinmendat rarier usus," said the sage, Juvenal. A governing principle in their future proceedings. — In 1769, the Club prevailed on Mr. Morris to permit his negro man Natt (or as was well known in after times, by the name of old Natty, by every urchin in town and country,) to be enlisted in their service, and to use a favo- rite managerical epithet of stars engaged, his poiverful aid, was obtained, for the interest of the purchase money of his time and for his apparel, and in case of accident, the Company stipulated to indemnify for damages. Faithful bandy legged Natt, was re-engaged year after year on like terms, until he became a free agent and was then regularly installed as knight of the whip, and be- came master and commander of a noble family of can- nines. This venerable grey pated African sportsman, was allowed fifty pounds per annum, a house, and a horse, with Jack Still, as assistant on liberal wages at the cost of the Club. The established hunting uniform in 1774, was a dark brown cloth coatee, with lappelled dragoon pockets, 11 white buttons and frock sleeves, buft" waistcoat and breech- es, and a bhick velvet cap. Thus equipped the provincial hunters took the Held, and rarely sat down to the hunting dinner, without the display of a Brush, frequently two or three were the tro- phies of the morning's chase. In 1775, the hey-days of the Club prosperity, the pack consisted of about sixteen couple of choice fleet hounds, the prized property of a full company of gallant huntsmen. A period of war intervenes and supercedes all aflairs of the chace until October 1780, when a slender meeting was obtained at the City Coffee House, and the President Mr. Morris, produced his accounts for the two last years, which were examined by Messrs. Donaldson and Lard- ner and a balance found due him of £ 3553 15 9 1-2 which was ordered to be paid by collecting £ 187 10 a piece from nineteen reckoned purse contributing mem- bers, amongst whom are rated Sharp Delaney, Thomas Leiper, William Turnbull and Blair M'Clenachan: the country gentlemen, viz. John Boyle, Colonel Thomas Robinson, Joseph Ellis of Burlington, George Noarth, Jonathan Potts, Mark Bird and Colonel Benjamin Flow- er, being only registered as privileged hunters, were not regularly assessed. In this emergency however a contri- bution was assessed of a voluntary nature of five hundred dollars on each of these gentlemen, to pay off all the ex- isting old debts. 12 It must be remembered, continental money was the currency. Six pound specie was then equivalent to £ 187 10. A levy of Jive pound specie was made for the service of the next year. The Company continued to increase and flourish under the original brief adopted code of salutary rules. The meetings of business were annual or oftener, as occasion demanded and full and succinct minutes of proceedings and records of accounts were regularly kept by Mr. T. Morris, the Treasurer and Secretary. No person was admitted to membership, "but by consent of a majority of the managers for the time being," until 1769, when the Club ballotted for all the proposed candidates. An annual tax was laid, called subscription money, for the service of the year, generally amounting to four pounds each, and the Treasurer regu- larly reported his account, which was examined and con- firmed. The following respectable gentlemen were admitted members, after the organization, and before the Club's meetings were suspended by the events of the War of Independence. Jeremiah Warder, Joseph Penrose, Joseph Budden, Edward Cottrell, Thomas Foxcroft, John Mitchell, and Joseph Jones, in 1 768. William Parr, Esq. James White, George Morris, William Hiorn, Nathaniel Lewis, Joseph Bullock, Sam- 13 uel Wallace, Joseph Pemberton, William Jones and Austin Tallman, and in 1769. G. Bonnin, Alvaro D'Ornellas, Turbot Francis, Jas. Bochannan, Thomas Murgatroyd, Stephen Moylan, Tench Tilghman, and Samuel Caldwell, in 1770. John Boyle, Mark Freeman, Matthew Mease, and Stacy Hepburn, in 1771. George Graflf, Thomas Williams and John White, in 1772. James Mease, James Moylan, Robert Glen, Richard Smith, Jose'ph Willson, Samuel Howell, Jr. and John Mease, in 1773. Bertles Shee, William Straker, and William Price, in 1774. William Druit Smith, Lieutenant Colonel John Patton, Alexander Nesbitt, Thomas Rowan, Jonathan Pensose, John Lardner, and Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Robin- son, in 1775. In the memorable year 1776 and in 1777, the regular meetings appear to have been wholly suspended, and a large portion of its patriotic members having other, and more momentous business to occupy their undivided attention. On September 18th 1778, Samuel Caldwell, Samuel Howell, Jr. Samuel Morris, Jr. John Boyle, John Lard- ner, and Alexander Nesbitt, all from campaign duty, convened and honorably resolved to pay off all the debts incurred in the maintainance of the establishment since 14 they had the pleasure of hunting together, and on the 21st the same gentlemen met, and elected Isaac Cox, John Dunlap, Thomas Leiper, James Caldwell, Thomas Peters, Joseph Ellis, General Wilkinson, Isaac Melchior and Thomas Bond, Jr. members of the Club. Owing to the high price of every necessary for the sup- port of huntsmen and dogs, thirty pounds (continental) was assessed on each member, and the good old rules of the Company were confirmed. The meetings of business were usually called in the city, but the rendezvous for hunting, was established at William Hugg's Inn, Gloucester Point Ferry, Nevv Jer- sey, or at the Company's kennell, erected on the Banks of Delaware, near the Point, which in 1778 contained a select pack of twenty-two excellent dogs, in good order for hunting, viz. Mingo, Piper, Drummer, Rover, Countess, Dido, Slouch, Ringwood, Tippler, Driver, Tuneall, Bumper, Sweetlips, Juno, Dutchess, Venus, Singwell, Doxy, Droner, Toper, Bowler and Bellman. Besides ten fine six month old pups, put out to be rai- sed at various places. The war now completely ended, independence atchiev- ed, and peace firmly established, the old club was revived with spirit and a renowned zest imparted to this warrior sport, by the re-assemblage of old friends, after years of unavoidable separation, again to partake of the extatic pleasures of the chase. The old rules and regulations 15 were revised and improved, and those herinafter subjoined adopted. Samuel Morris, Jr. Governor of the old Schuylkill Fishing Company, and commander of the distinguished "First Troop of Philadelphia City Cavalry," throughout the memorable conflict of arms, had the honor to be cho- sen first President of the Club, and continued to be an- nually re-chosen until he died, at an honored old age, in the year 1812. Years previous to this lamented event, when infirmity no longer permitted him to enjoy the manly exercise of horsemanship, he frequently made his welcome appear- ance on the field in the midst of his old quandum com- panions of the Hunting Club, and many of them his en- deared companions in arms. He usually rode in a chaise, and sometimes in a light carriage, attended by his old faithful servant Thompson, as driver. On these joyous occasions, every kind indulgence was extended, every means used to gratify the venerable and much loved chief of the association. The hunting ground was selected where good roads intersected each other, and where the exciting music of the pack, almost constantly saluted the delight- ed ears of their followers, and where the clearings occa- sionally afforded the chance of a view. Oh! these were reviving spirit stirring moments to the genuine old sports- man, and are to all gentlemen fond of the exhilerating chase, to which the nerveless indolent cits of the fire side, are and ought to be forever total strangers. To the real Sportsman, 16 *'The forest music is to hear the hounds Rend the thin air, and with a lusty cry Awake the drowsy echo, and confound Their perfect language, in a mingled sound. " Day. For the records of by-gone days of joy, we feel happy that our researches have been successful as related. They embrace it will be perceived an interesting epoch, when the Club was in the meredian glory of its efficiency and proud success. A great example for imitation in more modern times. It is to be lamented that the hunters chivalric spirit and his generous mantle, has not descended to some enterpri- sing spirited sons of fortune, in these our days to resi- dents near the regions of abundant game. Fox hunting would be at all events, a noble and harmless substitute, for many prevailing idle and enervating recreations. In the year 1800, the Club reckoned about forty mem- bers not more than one half of whom, were habitual or efficient hunters. Too many chose to relinquish early ri- sing, and exposure to invigorating frost, surmised danger, and the apprehension of fatigue, for the cheerful and ex- hilerating festive occasion, which always rounded off the duties of the day, a good hunting dinner, flowing bowls of governor, and sparkling goblets of madeira. All these welcome refreshments, to these book recorded sportsmen, must have been comparatively joyless; We cannot for- bear exclaiming with the Prince of Denmark, 17 "What is a man, If his chief good and market of his time Be but to sleep and feed?" It was no difficult matter, to discern who had chased the Fox. There could be no mistake, the keen appetite, the roseate bloom of health, and the cheerful countenance, sufficed to mark well the hunter. As the Poet expresses it, <' I love to see a nimble activeness In noble youth j it argues active minds In well shap'd bodies, and begets a joy Dancing within me." Of the respectable and flourishing club at this epoch, or at a still later period we hope to be pardoned for intro- ducing in this place a few of its most enterprising and leading members or hunting associates, viz. Mr. Morris, President, and Messrs. Wharton, C. Ross, J. S. Lewis, Morrell, Clay, Davies, Price, Denman, R. M. Lewis, W. W. Fisher, Humphrey's, Harrison, S. Meeker, R. Irwin, S. Allen, J. and A. Hamilton, R. Davis, B. Tilghman, A. Stocker, J. Caldwell, W. Mil- nor, Jr- T. F. Gamble, J. R. Tunis, J. C. Smith, Wm. Smith, J. Cuthbert, J. Wheeler, W. R. Stockton, J. Jackson, J. Wistar and Solomon Park a veteran of seventy an intrepid horseman, all residents of the city; of New 18 Jerseymen, we learn the names of General F. Davenport, John Lawrence, Capt. James B. Cooper, Capt. Samuel Whitail, Col. Heston, and Col. Joshua Howell, of Fancy Hill, New Jersey, Samuel Harrison, Esq. and Jesse Smith, Esq. the present High Sheriff* of Gloucester County. The writer had the pleasure of fi-equently coursing the pines and the plains of Gloucester County, between the years 1810 and 1818, the period of the decease of an es- timable friend and able tutor in the art of hunting and horsemanship. Captain Charles Ross. Deaths, resignations, and mercantile misfortunes con- sequent in the restrictions and general embarrassments of trade and business, which had continued to exist for many a previous year, and was onward pressing with de- structive force, paralizing the energies, and wasting the substance, of the once wealthy merchant, called his atten- tion fixedly, to his altered fortunes, and ruinous prospects, The ranks of the Club became thinned, its few adherents were disheartened at the gloomy change, and perceived dismal forebodings of the dissolution of their long-lived and once delightful association. When Captain Ross died, the death blow of the declining club was receiv- ed; it at once ceased to exist, because the soul of its the frail existence, the last master spirit, had departed. His funeral knell sounded that of his favourite's, "THE GLOUCESTER FOX HUNTING CLUB," at which he was wont to be one of the most ardent in the chase and liveliest at the banquet. He pos- 19 sessed a manly athletic form, rough features, and a robust constitution. He fell a victim however at the premature age of about forty-four years, to an obstinate dysentery, contracted in China, whither for many years, he voyaged as part ship owner and supercargo of the Caledonia, to repair by adventure, the once opulent but reversed fortunes of an endeared widowed mother and sisters. Blessed with amiability of manners, and endowed with a disinterested generosity of principle, which governed his every action in life, his agreeable society was earnestly sought and fondly cherished by all. To know him was to love him as a brother, one became insensibly affianced, and the attachment was often mutual and al- ways permanent. Humble indeed is this brief tribute to the many virtues of this Sportsman's heart. " He was a man. Take him for all in all, We ne'er shall look upon his like again." Who of his gallant and honorable corps on duty under his command at Mount Bull, in the campaign of 1814, did not soon feel the sentiments of profound admiration, respect and friendship.^ They unanimously voted and erected to his memory a superb marble monument, surmounted with emblematic military devises, and bearing suitable inscriptions, illus- 20 trative of the fame worth and virtues of their noble mind- ed, chivalric commander, as a valued friend, citizen, and soldier. In him, his late predecessor General Robert Wharton, was deprived of an esteemed friend, under v/hose banner he patriotically enrolled as a private, and served during the campaign in the late war. He was his noble competitor in the chase, and boon companion in the rational enjoyments of lite. Dispirited at this unexpected event, and in advanced years inviting to repose. President Wharton, the once efficient, active and enterprising Mayor of Philadelphia, and his few re- maining associates, at once resolved^, on the dissolution of the Club. Much as this circumstance may be deplored by many, it was then deemed expedient, and was perhaps eventualy inevitable. A fine pack, bred from the best imported English Fox hounds, some of which were imported by Mr. Davies and Mr. Ross, about ten years previous, were unkennelled and dispersed, and the further useful services of old Jonas Cattell, the guide and whipper-in, and of Cupid the faith- ful jet complexioned huntsman, were dispensed with. The distribution of the hounds of the Club was judi- ciously made, chiefly amongst the sporting farmers of West New Jersey, and those belonging to individuals were duly returned to their masters. Their valuable progeny, may be seen roaming at this time, in every part of New Jersey. 21 The hunts took place principally at Cooper's Creek^ about four miles from the city, at the horseheads seven miles, at Chew's landing, nine miles, at Blackwood-town, twelve miles, at Heston's Glass-works, twenty miles dis- tant, and sometimes at Thompson's Point, on Delaware, many miles to the South. The chase usually lasted from one to five or six hours, and sometimes hot pursuit has been made for eight or ten hours after an old straight forward fleet running Red Jacket, consequently coursing over a vast extent of coun- try. It is needless to note how many in such emergen- cies would give up the chase, or be lost sight of, a d completely thrown out. In 1798, one of them carried the pack in full cry to Salem, forty miles distant. In olden times, good hunts were made to view, on the Sea Beach at Egg Harbour. This change of position, had the advantage of novelty, and afforded fine shooting in variety and abundance. The increase of the mischievous crew of the Reynard family in Gloucester, afforded plenty of sport. The stock suffering farmer hailed the hounds and the huntsman as friends, free to enter his enclosures and traverse his fields, and his woods, unmolested and unrestrained from the tenth of October, until the tenth of April, at which period the fences were repaired and the ground tilled. Often have we seen him on hearing the music of the dogs, hastily bridle his horse and mount him, frequently without a saddle, and gallop after and joyfully augment the merry hunting train. It 22 sometimes occurred, that they were eminently useful aids; serving as guides through the intricate labyrinths of the woods aud swamps, to ferret out Reynard's usual haunts and retreats, and when earthed, to procure of some obli- ging neighbour the necessary implements, of an axe, pick, and spade, accustomed to the use of which, they actively and efficiently assisted, to dig for and capture the enemy in his den, generally excavated on the declivi- ty of a hill with a southern exposure, for secure and comfortable winter quarters. Sometimes this intense fatigue duty, continued by spells for hours, and labour occasionally found ample reward; not in the game she captured, but in peals of loud laughter and mirth, especially at the last industrious diggers, on the taking of a Skunk, or a ground hog; when this happened, there was no generous contention or rival- ship for the brush: the first named personage, we are told on a memorable occasion in 1805, freely oft'ered the compliment of his tail to all within shooting range, hunt- ers and dogs, until he liberally and fairly exhausted the contents of his odiferous sack or magazine. Here was more kindness, with all the acuteness of the Fox. He perished afterwards, by Jonas's unerring staff, in conse- quence of his temerity, and served him as an exquisite meal the following day; the liver he dispatched whilst warm, entertaining a high opinion of its efficacy in assist- ing his wind in the chase, during which he would frequent- ly knock over a rabbit for the delicate raw morceau. 23 On another, after a hard chase with a divided pack, a a part on the right track, and the major on the wrong, we at length halted with a number of the best dogs, at the humble door of a lowly Fox habitation. The scent seem- ed fresh as the dogs were keen. All thought the prisoner safe and a suie prize, to compensate us for a long and weary hunt. We dismounted to rest ourselves and horses. After cheerily passing about the huntsman's indispensable refreshingPocketPistol, tools were procured and all hands in rotation applied them diligently to the work of excava- tion. We soon made a. forcible entry into the Fox premises, there was no detainer^ sly Reynard and probably the Club family had themselves wisely gone out hunting, or had some howling intimation of an intended visit. The house was not empty however, a grisly intruder in alarm had precipitately entered, on the good old plea of " any port in a storm." They named him appropriately, when they dubbed him Ground Hog. Some of the disap- pointed curs soon dispossessed the grovelling intruder, and disposed of him. He too was a valued prize for old Jonas, whom we will now take the liberty of introducing particularly to the reader, as an important personage who figured more than twenty years as guide and master whipper-in, to the Glou- cester Club, of which he was made an honorary and proved a highly useful member, always at his post, whether at setting out with the Company, leading off, at fault or at the death. Jonas was enlisted in the service of the Club 24 in the aforesaid useful capacity, sometime in the Winter of 1796. No matter however circuitous or dis- tant the chase, ahvays a foot, he was at hand on every emergency, before one half of the riders in general made their appearance. So confident were the members of the Club, in his ability to execute whatever he undertook in the pedes- trian way, that they were at all times willing to hazard a wager on his performance. When about forty-five or fifty years of age, he was backed in a trial of speed and bottom against an Indian runner, to go from Mount Holly to Woodbury, New Jersey, a distance of twenty-two miles, he was the victor, and entered the town about two hundred yards only ahead of his competitor. Shortly afterwards a small purse an few hundred dollars was subscribed, and staked in a wager, that Jonas would go on foot from Woodbury to Cape Island a distance of about eighty miles in one day, deliver a letter and return the next with an answer, he performed the feat without the least distress, notwithstanding heavy sandy roads, and was ready to repeat it the same week if requested, on a wager. This extraordinary man, is tall, i-ising six feet one inch high, and athletic in form; bony and muscular, and en- dowed with uncommon strength and activity. He seem- ed in younger days, altogether tireless, or at least appa- rently never fatigued, when the riders, horses and hounds were jaded. It is true he did not go over the same quan- tum of ground, because his accurate knowledge of the course of the fox and the country, enabled him to shorten distances, and avoid the circuitous rout of the horsemen. In the chase, if the hounds were at fault, and ceased their music, the horn sounded as a directing guide to him, and in a few moments he was sure to make his appearance, and assist them to recover. He seldom failed after a short survey of the ground, and some of the hounds would instinctively follow at his heels. He possessed an eagle eye to discover the track, and we have often seen him seek it, and make it good, on the leaf covered soil of the forest. If any of the dogs on these occasions would run a scent, and open a cry, he instantly sought for evidence of a track, to be self convinced of its correctness. It frequently happens, as all fox hunters know, (and many they are among the generous and hospitable fox hunting sons of the south, who may perhaps peruse these desultory sportive memoirs of the happy careless days of auld lang syne) that young inexperienced hounds will readily take up and run the scent of a rabbit, and frequently unwarily dash off on a back track. It was here old Jonas's discrimina- ting powers were called into prompt request. If erring, he would undeceive the noviates in a twinkling. The horn rallied them, and conspicuous wrong doers soon yelped to less harmonious tunes, assisted by an instru- ment of music, called a whip. This was impressive, wholesome and reforming — justice however was seasoned with mercy. The sagacious active and industrious hound always received the encouragement of abundant kindness 26 and caresses in well doing. Both descriptions are dis- covered in every pack, and have instinct enough early to know the cause of reward or punishment for good or ill service. Jonas was very partial to hounds, true and staunch, and like them would, "never give up the ship." A good specimen of this patient and persevering disposi- tion was manifested in 1815 or 1816, a few years before the unfortunate dissolution of the Club. An old red rover was started from cover, and ran with such velocity on the right onward course, and for so many hours, that that every gentleman of the hunt, Cupid the huntsman, and almost every member of his canine family were dis- tanced and thrown out in the very toilsome protracted chase. Evening approached, and with it thoughts of dis- tant home. After short debate, the resolution to give up was adopted, and the well known signal of the hunts- man's horn, sounded to call in all straglers. Disappoint- ed and low spirited, by hunger, fatigue and failure, they took up the line of march and returned to Gloucester Inn, with a broken pack. At early dawn, two of the missing arrived at the kennel; their necks entwined with the severed brash of an old red dog Reynard. Jonas and the trusty pair had continued the chase, un- til eleven o'clock by moonlight, through swamp and thick- et, field and wood, all lovingly together in pursuit of a common undivided object, and at once overtook Mr. Fox hieing into cover for safety and rest. He was jaded and easily taken. His fine fur coat, Jonas appropriated to 27 himself as his moderate share of recompense for arduous service, and after decorating the necks of the companions of his toilsome victory, with the divided brush, trophies of the honors lost by their absent masters, ordered them home with their prizes. They readily obeyed stimulated by empty stomachs, and safely bore to the cottage of good Cupid, the kind keeper of the kennel, the self interpreting signals of honor and success. Jonas had substantial reasons for remembering the re- markable incident, the skin produced him no less than three dollars, about three times the present price of the article in the market. On one occasion after a good long chase, the Fox as a last resort took to the icy surface of the frozen Delaware, when a beautiful spectacle was presented to view. A pack of about thirty hounds on the trail, running compactly, the game only one hundred yards in advance, and overtaken before he reached the Pennsylvania shore. Jonas alone accompanied the pack, and came in at the death, soon after which President Wharton joined him, and received the brush at his hands. His singular repast on the morning of the chase, con- sisted usually of eggs, raw meat or rare and his drink, sim- ply a cup of coffee, tea, milk, or pure water, beer, or cider. His equipment was no less extraordinary. A red flan- nel shirt, a coarse suit of home spun domestic, over which were thrown a dowlass hunting shirt; on his bushy head 28 a woolen cap, or a small round felt hat, a pair of wa- ter proof coarse shoes or fisherman's boots, and can vass leggings or overalls, secured above the hips as a pro- tection against bushes and briars. He was frequently- accoutred as a complete hunter, with his favorite gun in hand, and a tomahawk in his belt, a valued present from Captain Ross. In this attire, he is I'epresented in the ac- companying excellent drawing taken at Gloucester, by E. W. Clay, Esq. in April 1830, in the old hunters banquet ing hall. At the writers request he left the shad fishery at Mr. Clark's point, near the cove, to stand foi the likeness, to • his friend the talented artist, who has also executed an ad- mirable view of Gloucester, and the hunting establish- ment, as it formerly was exhibited from Marshall's ferry, the opposite shore. He was prejudiced against horsemanship. A horse was once provided for him, but he had not jolted many miles before Jonas was disgusted with this novel mode, to him, of following the chase. As usual, he sought a short cut, through a swamp after the dogs, the poor horse was soon in a stationary position, when Jonas dismounted (as he alledged) and left him to extricate himself as well as he could, and a foot took after the hounds. In about an hour or two the fox was taken, and Jonas in at the death. The horse, had been met with in the road, and was brought in by one of the sportsman, who supposed Jonas had been thrown and perhaps injured. He was rallied on %/":^ 'TDKAB C ATTELIL . 29 his dexterous riding. Whether the unhorsing was volun- tary or otherwise we never could ascertain. Be that as it may, he never afterwards could be pi'evailed on to relin- quish his much loved pedestrianism with his gun or his staff, for a second trial of feats in horsemanship. A hunting party, on one occasion, in the severe winter of 1810, were completely entrapped by frost. During the pre- vious night and morning, much ice was made in the Dela- ware, and the drift from above made a lodgment at the point, entirely obstructing the navigation. Some of the gentlemen were ferried over with difficulty, the horses were left, and eventually were obliged to be crossed at Trenton bridge the nearest passage, about thirty-three miles above Gloucester. Reynard one day hied into cover, in Colonel Howell's woods near Woodbury, when nearly run down, Ross and Davies competed strongly for the brush, head and head in the chase, until a tangled impenetrable copse obliged a halt. They impetuously took different courses to the right and left, and came in contact soon after at the moment of the death, as Davies was in the act of dismounting to secure the prize before him, Ross at the critical moment seized him by the right leg, replacing him by a jerk in the saddle, and after dexterously turning his horse, threw himself amongst the dogs, before Davies and claimed the victory. On the return, the mooted point was soon settled by appeal to the sportsmen's arbitrament, and the brush awarded to Davies, to the satisfaction of his generous rival 30 who acquiesced in the establishment of the good old pro- verb.— "Fair play is a jewel." The intrepid Davies is yet in the land of the living, but in a very precarious state of health, possessing how- ever a lively recollection of events and occurrences of other and more prosperous days, when he was noted as one of the keenest and most successful sportsman in the field. His ardor in riding produced many mischances, but no serious accident ever befel him. Once his horse and him self were nearly engulphed in a quick sand swamp, and escaped miraculously with prompt assistance at hand. At another time, he and a friend turned sommersetts with their horses over a bank, into a deep hollow covered with brush wood and leaves of the forest, which broke the fall and probably saved their necks, at the less expense of rent garments and some rent skin. One day in an unguarded moment of desperate riding, through a thicket, a hanging branch of the wild grape vine, crossing his neck unhorsed him backwards, and for a moment suspended him per coUum nearly after the manner of Absalom. Although he escaped death, he thereby was absent at the fox's. The fox vine lucklessly caught him, instead of his taking the fox, which he thought secured. So much for overweening confidence. The moral strongly applies, to the prospective calculations of many fortune securing speculators in these adventurous days. A large party of about thirty gentlemen, chiefly strangers, many years ago rendevouz'd at Mrs. Marshall's 31 the Point House Tavern, by appointment, and at sunrise, crossed the Delaware in high glee to the kennel for the certain sport after a bag fox, taken only two days before. He was let out near Gloucester, and led off nimbly to the shouts of the huntsmen. In about fifteen minutes, the hounds were uncoupled, and gave fine music in full chorus. Puss had made excellent use of her time, and was continuing to use it too good purpose. She ran a course nearly south, crossing Timber Creek, thence a south westerly course towards Howell's woods, thence back of Woodbury, and opened to view not far from the Delaware. The cold set in intensely, and sheet ice had made in a cove, on which hard pressed and hemmed in she ven- tured, and not far from the shore broke in. The eager gazing hounds kept the terre ferme. Whilst a consulta- tion was held hotv to obtain the prize, Mr. Caldwell, farmer of New Jersey, one of the Club, stripped and boldly plunged in and captured her. He was almost converted into frost by the venture, but received no con- sequential injury after being I'ubbed with ardor and ar- dent. The strangers was amazed at the voluntary immersion on such a frosty occasion, and all highly applauded his intrepidity and merited success. In the winter of 1811, after a severe chase, in the vi- cinity of Blackwood town a friend of ours, W. M. whilst yet a green huntsman, had the felicity and distinguished 32 honor (thanks to an ungovernable Kentucky hunter rode on the occasion) of taking the brush of a large grey dog fox, in a quick sand swamp, into which we had plunged and some of us obliged to dismount to reach the pack who had just overtaken the game. Good fortune attended his active efforts, and whilst he was engaged in rescuing the fox from the jaws of the voracious hounds, the Kentuckian alarmed at the hue and cry wandered into a dangerous part of the swamp, where he sunk until his head and neck were at one time only visible, and miraculously saved himself, by obtaining a foot hold as he was on the point of being wholly immersed and suffocated. Jonas discovered him in the dangerous predicament, and the struggling an- imal on seeing him redoubled his efforts, and made to- wards him, when he was brought safely out. The grey's brush was long preserved as a memento of success, and was incentive to future exertion, but the avocations of life, too seldom permitted it to be enjoyed. Some of the experienced old hunters, were illy repaid for this days toil, which involved many a leap over fences, ditches and fallen timber in the woods, for the noble prize of honor, a fine bushy plume of nature's manufac- ture. But to this, as customary was to be superadded the hon- or of a seat at the banquet, on the right hand of the pre- siding oflicer of the day. The unexpected, nay unmerit- ed result of this days sport, caused much disappointment 33 and mortification to several determined brush-coveting members. But " the race is not always to the swift, nor the battle to the strong." Various mishaps were incident to this day's hunt, so strongly contested. Mr. Edward Davies unluckily lost his hat in the tangled woods, and Messrs. Lewis and Ross, were immoveably swamped at the moment of the death, within hearing of poor puss's lamentations, and the quick ear-piercing howl of the successful hounds. Cupid appeared as usual, for the huntsman's reward, af- ter the removal of the dinner course, with cap in hand and sounding horn, to the chorus of tally ho! ho! ho! hark, hark to music! hark to him! O hark away. A son of Jonas', and a real chip of the old block, brought in his prize, and received his well earned reward for a voluntary hunt of six or eight miles after, and recovery of the missing chapeau . When the last mentioned fox was unkennelled, a part of the Company led by Mr. Ross, mounted on his spirited sorrel, left the main road for the wood, im- mediately after the pack. The President and we, kept the road at good speed until the wood was turned, when we entered a field to the right. A wide and deep ditch was before us, which it was necessary to pass. A flat planked bridge, known in the vicinity, by the name of the ^^ Irish Bridge," crossed it. On approaching it, it was perceived, a number of the planks had been removed, 5 34 and heaped on the sides to prevent the straying of cattle, leaving an aperture of some eight or ten feet. The dogs were evidently nearing us by the distinctness of their deep toned music, harmonious to the huntsman's listening ear. The horses were eager and mettlesome from competi- tion, and their riders elate and reckless of consequences. They were instantly reined in, the obstacle momentarily reconnoitered, when they were wheeled, whipped and sprang handsomely over, not without some hazard to both horse and rider, as will appear in the sequel. It was a moment of high expectation and intense ambi- tion, when, " In vain the stream in foaming eddies whirls; In vain the ditch, wide-gaping, threatens death." In the sober period of passed excitement, the mind re- alized the temerity of the adventurous leap, especially in observing that the hind shoes of our friend's Kentuckian, second in the feat, had obtained a very precarious footing on the edge of the opposite plank. A five or six barred worm fence to the left of the wood, was afterwards clear- ed, when the panting fox issued full in view, coursing the fields hard pressed by the clamorous pack, and the mounted pursuers to the halloo of Tally ho! It was a fine prospect for a painter's pencil, and a most enliven- ing one to a sportsman. He sought refuge in the swamp, 35 where he was soon overtaken as related, and proved to be an old one of the native family of the Greys. The more mischievious red-skin stock, are imported rogues of bad habits and dispositions, unredeemed by a single virtue or useful quality. He is inimical to man, by whom he is as cordially hated for his extensive depreda- tions on the husbandman, not merely to satisfy the cravings of hunger, but to gratify an inordinate love and thirst of blood. He thus wantonly and cowardly sacrifices by wholesale in the midnight hour, the unwarned and de- fenceless, at roost. His destructive maraudings do not end here, the tender lamb often becomes his prey, and his destruction of game, rightfully the property of the sportsman, is immense. Pheasants, partridges, their eggs and their young, alike he destroys, whenever and where- ever he can secure them. Even the stores of the indus- trious bee, and the exquisite produce of the vine, are alike sacrificed to his voracious appetite. The smaller animals of the wood or the field, detest and avoid him, and all the wild birds of the air have the same regard for him, that they have for the hawk. They will hover over, dart at and pursue him, to his great an- noyance. By this means the Hunter is often aroused to watchfulness, and advised of Reynard's presence, or his course. In short, a universal war is waged against this perni- cious creature. Prowling in darkness or warily lurking by day, he will sometimes audaciously secure his prey 36 and escape, in the very presence of the farmer, in the barn yard. His fleetness renders pursuit by man or ordinary farm dogs hopeless, even though encumbered with his prey. He is taken only, in the effectual and delightful mode, pursued by the lovers of the chase. Though he runs far and fast, and uses every possible stratagem to escape the merited fate which awaits him, the faithful hound of bot- tom and his aids, will sooner or later overtake and des- patch him, notwithstanding they have to engage in a se- vere struggle, with a wicked and venemous enemy. There are many in society, who unthinkingly and illib- erally condemn hunting as a savage sport. They are either unacquainted with the extent of the evil, or not having suffered by the cruel and murderous little animal, look with a single oblique eye, to the motive or means of the sportsman, without perceiving the salutary end; and will readily sanction the destruction of poor crows by hun- dreds, the hawk, the squirrel, the minx and the wolf, purely on account of their predatory habits. Let them exchange places with the farmer, and be made sensibly to know and feel the efl'ect of the fox's excursions and inroads on his premises and living property, and they will change their sentiments of humanity in that respect, and join in the common hue and cry against the greatest common midnight enemy of the farmer, and the whole feathered creation. Worthless alive, he is only to be valued when dead. 37 for his soft and beautiful skin, in olden time so indispen- sable and fashionable with our mothers and grand-mothers, in the neat manufactured article of comfortable mufts and tippets, to shield their exposed and delicate forms from the rude blasts and severe frosts, of our old fashion- ed winters. An old fox is as untameable as a tiger, altogether ferae naturae. A cub taken within the year, may be domesti- cated, but never will be social with any one but his kind feeder, or those about the place, who familiarize with and pet him. Let him loose to range, and it will generally be found, that he soon ungratefully changes his domestic for his natural state, and is readily transformed into a real wild reynard. The wolf entertains a great aversion to him, and eager- ly hunts him, but usually fails, because of the fox's strat- agems and speed. Perhaps this dislike arises from the fondness of the one, for some of the more delicate food of the other. In the Polar regions, we are informed the fox assumes many varieties of color. In the vicinity of the rocky mountains, the size and colors of the animal are varied, but with us in the old States, the prevailing color is the native grey, and the red, his more subtle, evasive and predatory enemy the offspring of other climes. Unfortu- nately for us he propagates abundantly, and according to the expressed opinion of an observant and erudite natu- ralist, the late venerable Jefferson, annually extends his 38 species and his excursions in a southwardly direction, un- til in time his adopted home and hunting grounds, will be limited only by the vast territories of the Federal Union. Theoretical or book naturalists, sometimes greatly err in matters of fact, especially relative to the habits and conduct of animals. It may arise however from too freely generalizing, without respect to difference of climate, which we well know, varies the manners essentially of our species. The learned BufFon and Goldsmith, in describing the habits of the fox when pursued, do not accord with the hunter's experience in this country. They allude we presume to the red species peculiar to European climates, and the latter advances the assertion, that " He does not double^ nor use the unavailing shifts of the hare.''^ With us in the States, all fox hunters are convinced by the unerring proof of oft retraced steps, that when warmly chased, both kinds will frequently double, and puzzle their pursuers, and thus ingeniously gain the great desideratum of time and distance. It is true, the speed and bottom of the red, greatly outstrip- ping the grey, this stratagem is generally unnecessary, and might afford him less chance of escape. Straight on- ward his hopes lay, and it not unfrequently happens, the pack are diverted to the fresh scented track of another brother reynard, in their distant stern chase of the first, suddenly roused from his snug covert by the hue and cry, and obliged to seek safety in flight. Wo betide the poor 39 fellow, if he should perchance wear the livery of a grey on the keen occasion. His hours, aye sometimes minutes, are numbered, and his lucky foe, of the same ill-starred genus escapes. A sketch of old Jonas and the fox's characters and habits blended in contrast, utile cum inutile, into which we have unintentionally been led in this place, has divert- ed us from our intent and purpose, to pursue our descrip- tion of some of the principal hunts remembered, as more interesting perhaps, to the general reader. Therefore briefly, revenons a nos moutons. In the winter of 1816, a large company composed of members and invited friends, met by appointment, the evening previous to an intended hunt, at the Widow Heston's es- tablishment, Glassborough, New Jersey, twenty miles be- low the city. It was an occasion of great merriment and social entertainment, until the hour of repose. Early next morning, calm, cold and frosty, our faithful Cupid blew, " His hoarse-sounding horn Inviting to the chase, the sport of kingsj Image of war, without its guilt." We rose at the summons, and loud echo of the houndsj breakfasted by candle light, and when grey dawn appear- ed, about twenty of us mounted for the chase, in high spirits at the prospect of a goodly day for sport, percep- tively moderating as it advanced. 40 Soon after sun rise, a few miles beyond Heston's Glass Works, twenty-six of the best honnds, were un- coupled. In less than fifteen minutes, the deep toned voice of old Truman, told on the delighted ear, in which Boler and Bellman, Dromus and Rockwood, all good and true dogs of age and experience soon joined, with Dia- mond, Music, Madcap, Flora, Ringwood, Thetis, Dutchess, Dash, Danser, Daisey, Dover, Hayjake, Lucy and Trumpeter, and a few others of less note, ad- ding their echoes to the spirit-stirring music. Somerville, expressively pourtrays the scene, " Hark! the loud peal begins, the clam'rous joy, The gallant chiding loads the trembling air. Ye jovial train, your courage try, And each clean courser's speed. We scour along • In pleasing hurry and confusion toss'd; Oblivion to be wish'd. " After the usual preliminary of judicious ascertainment, to the satisfaction of Jonas and Cupid, and the pack, that it was no back track, away at once they led in fine stile and full cry, making the forest ring. We followed at half speed, careful not to over-run the dogs, too common a fault with eager sportsmen, for about an hour, at a shorthand-gallop, before they were at fault. Old Dromus, Rockwood and Thetis were busy in cour- 41 sing the circle to recover, whilst we rested and refreshed man and horse. The latter dog remarkable for his nose, winded the track some twenty or thirty yards and bellow- ed. The knowing ones ran in, and shortly joined their notes to his, with earnest voices not to be misunderstood. Off went the whole pack again in beautiful array. After another hour or two's ride, again at faulty and a glorious opportunity for respite, as tlie chase had been tedious and severe. The old one's coursed again in a circle, gradually aug- menting the circumference to i-ecover the scent, whilst Jonas engaged himself as usual, diligently to recover the track by occular demonstration, at which it has been al- ready observed, he ever was a remarkable adept. He soon saw or fancied he saw, the track of a red fox, about fifty yards from the congregated hunting clan of men, horses and wearied or lazy hounds, reposing in the shades of the wood. The fine tan slut Music, who at- tended Jonas, raised the signal of alarm, and a third time the family pack led off in grandeur. It was not long however before they were once more at fault. All around, the cries were occasionally raised and quelled in a few moments, betokening scent and uncertainty of the road, the wayward fox had journied after the halt. It was not long before Jonas was heard vociferating as lustily, as if he had had a view. He had found the deep imprinted retracing foot mark in the road sand, at a point about one hundred yards distant from the group. 6 42 It was conjectured and doubtless with reason, that reyn- ard had taken to and run down a rivulet near, on the back track, thence leaped on and run a sinailar course, on an adjacent fence bordering the wood, whence he had sprang to the spot discovered by the vigilant eagle eyed whipper-in, and made for a tangled cedar swamp hard by. His humid foot-steps still marked the rider rails. An ac- tive scene ensued. The cry was up. Every huntsmen re- mounted, each ardent for a speedy and victorious ter- mination of the arduous chase. The swamp was accessible only to Jonas and the eager hounds; we galloped around. He knew well its recesses, and entering it, leaped as usual with a frog's agility, from tussock to tussock, after the pack. The game was driven out, and soon exhibited a fine view. Tally-ho-ho-ho, resounded, and the mettlesome impatient steeds receiving the rein, and the whip or the spur, nobly competed for the prize. Puss evidently was making her last best eftbrt, though jaded, as she but too plainly shewed, by her protruding tongue, and low swinging tail. The dogs neared her as she entered a wood, and earth- ed her in her sinuous den on the southern aspect of a rising piece of ground, after a protracted chase of between thir- ty and forty miles, from the time of unkennelling, about the hour of noon. We gladly seized the acceptable mo- ment, to dismount and rest. 43 The prize was not to be given up, after so great toil to obtain it. The selected retreat was at least two miles from any human habitation. Some of the worthy rustic's, who had increased our numbers to upwards of twenty -five horsemen, volunteer- ed to proceed after the mining tools. In the mean time, the pocket pistols were uncased, and the hunting cavalcade refreshed, with the contents and the more acceptable and exquisite beverage, on the fatiguing occasion, of good wholesome spring water, from a forest rivulet in the vicinity. This occasion also aftbrded re- freshment to our wearied horses and the faithful perseve- ring pack. After felling a tree or two, in the way of our opera- tions, and laboring up hill, occasionally to the right and left oblique, according to the ordinary devious subterra- nean passages of Reynard, we arrived at the last turn, exhibiting a comfortable leaf carpeted cavern chamber, where she appeared with gleaming eyes and threatening aspect, prepared to defend herself and tender young from any intrusion. We all worked alternately for nearly two hours and consequently were pretty tired; after eff'ecting an excava- ting traverse of about twenty yards obliged to overcome the stubborn obstacles of trees, roots and stones. No dog was small enough to enter. Our whipper-in fertile in expedients on every emergency, cut a slender 44 sapling and splitting the smallest end, inserted a piece of wood therein to form a prong, which was introduced to the loose skin of mother Fox and gently twisted, by which she was brought to light and bagged. We secured also four fine cubs of good size, which were likewise bagged and taken to the city, where they were nurtured until Spring, and then restored to freedom, in their native woods for future sport. We must admit, this was not quite comme il faut^ certainly at least, according to the Jersey farmer's just notion of matters and things. Sometime in the spring of 1812 or '13, a grey puss was roused from cover in Colonel Howell's woods, and led off the pack merrily, passing by Woodbury and thence towards Mullico hill, near which she doubled and return- ed to Howell's. The dogs were grouped around the trunk of a tree, on which it was rightly conjectured she had sought protection. Mr. R. M. L , an excel- lent horseman and adventurous hunter, pushed hard for the brush, and threw himself off his steed in a full gallop, at great hazard for the prize, which he succeeded in secu- ring, as she soon fell prostrate to the ground. It was mor- tifying to discover, that some person unknown had been guilty of the outrage of shooting the animal before the hounds had come up. Poor Jonas was suspected, per- haps not unjustly, as he that day carried his gun, and had met with no rabbits. In the winter of 1815, President Wharton had the su- preme honor of eclipsing a large party of sportsmen, by 45 securing the brush of a large old grey, after a circuitous and uncommonly hard run for one of his affinity, in the neighbourhood of Blackwood town, about twelve miles south east of Philadelphia. He ran for three good hours, before he struck his brush. On the same day, Mr. J. S. L s was luckily first in at the death of a fine red, with the same pack, and bore aloft his bushy honor, much more to his gratification, than to many of his rival com- rades. He was caught in less time than the grey, attribu- ted to the dogs being in better condition for running with empty stomachs, than when first uncoupled, having been freely fed, the evening before the hunt. Foreign gentlemen, accustomed to European fox and hare hunting, were occasionally guests at Gloucester. They became early apprised of the difference between a dense American wood or thicket, and the ancient forests at home, destitute of underwood and brambles, into which the eye may deeply penetrate, and the hunter ride in safe- ty and with speed. We well remember an Englishman who attended one of our hunts. He was elegantly equipped for a home chase, with the exception of a new blue coat and beaver, instead of a roundabout and cap. He wore white topped boots and spurs, buckskin breeches, and the above de- scribed unsuitable hunting habiliments. A red fox was unkennelled at a place called the horse heads, four miles from Gloucester; in less than half an hour after uncoupling the dogs. It was remarked he was 46 a good horseman and rode fearlessly. In the course of the chase, we had to leap a five barred gate, at the termi- nation of a private road, leading towards a farm house. Being a stranger we kept him company, the rest having galloped in advance. His horse was in the act of taking the leap, when he imprudently checked him, and though it was taken, the rider was unhorsed in a side ditch. He was in an instant ludicrously metamorphosed, to the sem- blance of a gentleman ditcher. As soon as his runaway charger was retaken, the stranger nothing daunted, I'e- mounted, after shaking and ridding himself of a quantum of dirt, sand and water, which enveloped his person. Other mishaps however were in reserve, before the death, for this luckless, but courageous gentleman. In passing rapidly through the wood, the protruding limb of a tree unceremoniously severed one half of the skirts of his blue from the body, and shortly after by another acci- dent, oft" went his indented mud covered chapeau, and before the pine thicket was cleared, his coat was trans- formed into a tolerable spencer. So began and so ended his American fox hunting expedition. It afforded much mirth at the banquet; the toilet was unable to disguise the grotesque. Candour induced him to admit the accident which first befel him, was imputable to his own indiscretion. In another subsequent event, a member confessed the fault to be his, when the consequence of holding on to the curb of the horse, in the act of raising to take the 47 leap over a rail fence, was the fracture of the collar bone and disjointing of the shoulder. Another, rather of a serious character, which was fol- lowed by a protracted confinement under medical skill, was produced from an unfortunate contention between rider and horse, in full gallop, which side of a large oak should be taken in the chase. The consequence was his being unhorsed against the side of a tree, to the frightful scarification of his right cheek, and great injury of his cranium. All the accidents we ever heard of in the Club, and those related comprised a period of eight years, happen- ed on account of the riders inexperience or perverseness, in substituting his own misguided will, for that of his faithful and trusty steed's. It is well known to horsemen, that the noble animal, rarely will attempt the execution of any feat he is unequal to accomplish. Generally he may be trusted with the confidence of perfect safety. The rider has only to maintain a good horseman's seat in the saddle, and all will be well. We have briefly recurred to the origin, progress and alas! untimely exit from existence of one of the most ancient, agreeable and respectable Clubs of our Country. It had numbered upwards o^ fifty-two years at its dissolution in the year 1818, and for almost half a cen- tury of that memorable and eventful epoch in the world, its manly cheerful and health imparting exercises and 48 destinies were controlled and regulated, by the manage- ment or under the Presidency of Samuel Morris, Esq. an original member and a genuine gentleman of the old school, as exemplary and unblemished in morals, as he was zealous but temperate, in his participation in, and discharge of the generous social duties of his happy and protracted life. The institution survived the storms of the revolution. Though the enemy invaded and long possessed its hunt- ing grounds, it was renovated by Mr. Morris and a few meritorious associates, who restored it to its pristine vigor ante bellum, when the clouds had been dissipated by the sunshine of peace. It is now no morej even the ruins of the extensive ken- nel and the cabin of the hunter, have altogether disappear- ed. Its last tenant we believe, has gone to his last tene- ment. Jonas, good old man we repeat it, yet lives in his old native town, a striking monument of vigorous, healthful venerable age, after an unprecedented life of continued ac- tive laborious exertion, strongly exemplifying (more impres- sively than speeches or books can teach,) the incalculable value of temperance^ and ivholesome exercise blended, in preserving the human frame from a variety of dire diseas- es of a pulmonary or dyspeptic character, and a train of ills, consequent on a life of luxury and comparative indo- lence. The writer visited him in December last a few miles from Woodbury. The last eleven years have produced 49 no visible alteration in his appearance, that period having elapsed since seeing him before. He was in the woods with his hounds and gun, rabbit hunting. His common drink is water, milk, cider or beer. He used to assert he was never intoxicated but once in his life, and then a trick was played on him. When laboring under the novel effect of the potation, he exclaimed, Oh dear, Charley has murdered me. The history of this industrious, humble and retired in- dividual, and the liappy sequel in these his ripened years, forms an instructive lesson and rich example in many re- spects, to the young and active of the rising generation. RULES GLOUCESTER J^^^^ffi HUNTING CLUB. TALLY H0\ ARTICLE L The association shall be called, THE GLOUCESTER FOX HUNTING CLUB. ARTICLE II. There shall be annually chosen by ballot, on the first Thursday of January by a majority of the members pre- sent, due notice having been given to each member by the Secretary, at least three days before said election, a Pre- sident, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and four 52 Managers, who shall continue in office for one year, and until others shall be elected in their stead. ARTICLE III. It shall be the duty of the President to preside at all meetings of the Club, to see that order and regularity are observed, and to have a general superintending care of the concerns of the association. ARTICLE IV. The duty of the Vice President shall be to aid and as- sist the President, and to preside at all meetings in his absence. The office of President and Treasurer, or Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary, may be vested in the same person. ARTICLE V. The duty of the Treasurer shall be to receive and dis- tribute the funds, for the benefit of the Club, and to ren- der to the annual meeting, a correct statement of his pro- ceedings, and to pay over the balance, if any in his hands, to his successor in office, with all the books, pa- pers, &c. ARTICLE VL The duty of the Secretary shall be to keep, in a book to be provided for that purpose, correct minutes of the proceedings of the Club, in which book shall be trans- 53 cribed in alphabetical order, the names of all the dogs, with their ages, pedigrees, &c. as nearly as can be ascer- tained, belonging to the association. ARTICLE VII. The duty of the Managers in conjunction with the Trea- surer and Secretary, and under the direction of the Pre- sident and Vice President^ shall be to see that the dogs and huntsman's horse are well taken care of, and that the huntsman is attentive in keeping the kennel sweet and clean, and otherwise attending to his duty. ARTICLE VIII. In case the President and Vice President shall be ab- sent at any stated or special meeting, the members pre- sent shall elect a President pro tern. Special meetings may be called by the President, or in his absence the Vice President, whenever they think proper, and at all times at the instance of five members, on two days no- tice. ARTICLE IX. At the annual meeting in the month of January, a tax shall be assessed on each member, to defray the expenses of the ensuing year, at the discretion of a majority of the members present. 54 ARTICLE X. Any person wishing to become a member, must be pro- posed at one meeting and ballotted for at the next, two thirds of the members present agreeing to his admission, and one tliird of the Club being present at the time. ARTICLE XI. Any member misbehaving himself may be expelled with the consent of two thirds of the members, the association may consist of at the time. At least one week's previous notice shall be given, to the misbehaving member, and his defence, if he has any, shall be heard. ARTICLE XII. The President, or in his absence the Vice President, or in the absence of both, the President pro tem. shall ride in front of the sportsmen, giving the necessary directions until the fox is on foot, when each gentleman may ride as he pleases, taking care not to over ride the dogs, or to hurt them; but whenever the dogs are at fault, the Com- pany are to be immediately under the direction and or- ders of the acting President of the day, until the dogs carry the fox off again. Should any gentleman disobey the President's directions as stated in this article, he shall have the power to fine him in any sum not exceeding one dollar, to be paid to the Treasurer for the use of the Club. Should the President, (or in his absence the Vice Presi- dent,) decline taking the directing of the Company on 55 hunting days, he shall nominate some other person in his place, who shall be as implicitly obeyed, and have the same authority as he would have. ARTICLE XIII. The sportsman who first touches the fox after the dogs have caught him, or who first touches the tree on which the fox may have taken shelter, if he does not make his escape theretrom, shall be entitled to the brush, for which distinguished honor he shall present one dollar to the huntsman. The person taking the brush shall take his seat at dinner on the right hand of the presiding officer of the day. All visitors or strangers hunting with the Club, shall be informed by the President of the day of the two preceding articles, previous to uncoupling the dogs, and shall be subject to them in the same manner as the members. ARTICLE XIV. After due notice of any meeting being given by the Secretary, any number of the members met, a half an hour after the time appointed, shall be sufficient to trans- act the ordinary business. ARTICLE XV. No alteration or addition can be made to these rules, until the whole Company are informed thereof by the Se- cretary, nor until a second meeting after such alterations 56 or additions shall have been proposed 5 when it shall re- quire a majority of the Club to make such change. ARTICLE XVI. The foregoing Rules and Regulations, shall be trans- cribed by the Secretary in the book of minutes, and each member shall subscribe the same. FINIS, ERRATA. *' Memoir of the Schuylkill Fishing Company.'' Introduction. Page V. Line I7th for slatut read statute. „ vii. „ 11th for 1783 road 1683. „ „ „ 17th for polished read published. „ viii. „ oth erase by after vigor. Memoir. Page 9. Line Oth tlic words "an election day for eighty - four" transpose to their proper place be- tween on and persons, in the sentence fol- lowing. „ 18. „ 3d for respectful read respected. „ 37. „ 21st for 1732 read 1782. „ 83. „ 4th from bottom page for left read right. „ 104. ,. for 25 dozen read 31 A ERRATA. " Memoirs of the Gloucester Fox Hunting Club.'' Page 14. Line 4th from bottom page for rcnow7icdtea,d renewed. „ 18. „ 24th the first word the erase. „ 28. „ I6tli also the first word the erase.