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UNIVERSITY
LIBRARY
BOUGHT WITH .THE INCOME
OF THE SAGE ENDOWMENT
FUND GIVEN IN 1891 BY * •
HENRY WILLIAMS SAGE ■>THE
HISTORY OF CAPE COD.
ANNALS
OF
THE THIRTEEN TOWNS
OF
BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
BY
FREDERICK FREEMAN.
VOL. II.
“ These transactions and events, as they precisely fell out in time, too much neglected
by our historians, I have taken the greatest pains to search and find, even more than in the
composing; and which, through a world of difficulty and much expense, I here present
you.”—Rev. Thomas Prince.
BOSTON:
W. H. PIPER & CO.
Chicago, III. : S. C. Griggs & Co.
1869.
YEntered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1862, by
Geo. C. Rand & Avery,
In the Clerk’s Office of the District Court of the District of Massachusetts.PREFACE.
The writing of a preface has usually been
postponed by authors to the close of their work
—just as is the practice of some clergymen
to write their sermon and then select an ap-
propriate text: but we choose that the preface
precede the narrative not only in the order of
arranging the sheet for the bindery, but in the
order of time, as a programme or exhibit of
what we sincerely intend to do and as the utter-
ance of what we have to say in advance of the
execution.
How far we redeemed our pledge given in the
preface to the former volume, is for the public
and posterity to decide. "We had, before we
commenced the publication, assiduously gath-
ered materials as far as was practicable from
sources more readily at command as well as
from almost obliterated and widely scattered
data; and, as the issue of the work progressed,
carefully and indefatigably searched for other
data wherever there seemed a probability or
even possibility of its being found for the coin-
(3)4
PREFACE.
pletion of our narrative. The labor necessary,
very few persons are competent to appreciate;
for only they who have had like experience can
estimate it. The difficulties of historical re-
search always increase with the remoteness or
obscurity of the period; and secluded settle-
ments where the springs of important transac-
tions lie thinly scattered are generally most
neglected. Suffice to say, we have stinted our-
self neither in diligent inquiry, wearisome re-
search, nor expense. We might, it is true, have
incurred — and our true policy, so far as pecu-
niary self-interest dictated, would have been to
incur — less expense in the exterior or mechan-
ical execution: but if we chose to gratify our
own taste at serious cost in the paper, typogra-
phy and embellishments, our readers were not
the losers. The policy will be the same in the
present volume. We never had any absurd
expectation of pecuniary emolument from the
History. Nor have we been chiefly ambitious
of fame; or we would have selected other sub-
jects, and eras prolific of remarkable incidents
and distinguished for the magnitude of their
events. Our humble aim was, and still is, to
rear a monument to the past and perform an
act of filial and patriotic regard for Cape Cod —
our endeared natale solum.
On entering upon this second volume, we
would fain have the reader advised in somePREFACE.
•5
degree of the arduous nature of our undertaking.
Were we writing a History of the United States,
or even of the World, it would be comparatively
a lighter task; for we would then be called to
deal chiefly in generalities, travelling over ground
explored again and again by able men, the abun-
dant data at hand, our pen moving with few inter-
ruptions, currente calamo, and our principal anxi-
ety not to fall too far below those preceding us —
whether in correct narrative, interest of arrange-
ment and illustration, or diction: but our task
is to pioneer in an attempt to rescue from ob-
livion the fading memories of by-gone years and
to snatch from the relentlessly destructive tooth
of time records that have already become in
part mutilated or illegible — the history of a
portion of country that has received from his-
torical writers hitherto scarcely any attention.
All are familiar with the homely simile, “ a
needle in a hay-stack; ” we have (to follow out
the figure) spent many tedious hours in almost
as hopeless a search — examining as it were
many a stack straw by straw — the result often
being only the demonstration that the object of
search was not there. When a fact of any mo-
ment or even the simplest incident tending to
throw light upon the past has been found, we
have seized it with avidity and scrutinized it
with care — to proceed again in our search.
Nothing accessible, of the existence of which
we were aware and which gave hope of addi-
tional light, has been left unexplored.6
PREFACE.
Dr. Johnson, the great lexicographer, has de-
fined one of his vocation, “ a writer of diction-
aries— a harmless drudge that busies himself in
tracing the original and detailing the significa-
tion of words: ” we sympathize Avith him in the
feeling that prompted the self-pitying and self-
humiliating soliloquy. We do not expect either
the present or coming generations to appre-
hend fully the pains which our undertaking
costs. The work accomplished, future explorers
will profit by our toils. They will have at least
some faint landmarks by which to direct their
own course, and possibly may detect some omis-
sions and supply deficiencies, some errors and
correct them; the initiate toil they will happily
have avoided, and can, therefore, never know
the perplexities that attended it.
We discourse on this wise not that we may
find sympathy; but that our position may be so
far understood that none may imagine that the
humble offering here made to the public is ac-
complished by sinecure, or is reasonably to be
demanded as the work of a moment. True, were
all the difficulties of the way perfectly compre-
hended, the phlegmatic might coolly retort,
‘ Cai bono t the task was voluntarily assumed. If,
tenacious of the example of “ Old Mortality ”
among the monuments, a writer chooses so thank-
less employment, he has the privilege conceded
to him of consuming in the self-profitless taskPREFACE.
7
energies that might be better directed; and,
though he may find occasion to apostrophize
the ancient peninsula of his nativity with the
lamentation, “The zeal of thine house hath
eaten me up,” he has his labor for his pains.’
All this may seem to morbid indifference very
pertinent; and, so far from complaining, we
ourself freely admit — and as the result of ex-
perience unhesitatingly record the confession —
that were one looking to us for advice, to inti-
mate the thought of preparing the history of a
county and its several towns with the aid of so
scattered, confused and almost obliterate mate-
rials, — adding to this the severer duty of demon-
strating what was the origin of each man, what
the line of descent of this, that or the other, or
even the fact that every one was actually born of
some parent, — we would be somewhat inclined
to chide the temerity. And yet, whilst we thus
confess, we are by no means unthankfully ob-
livious to the fact that both pleasure and en-
couragement have been found in the prosecution
of our labors. Sincere, ay, most heart-felt thanks
are due to those who have evinced an interest
in our success. The readiness of such, including
not a few of wisdom and high position, to succor
the enterprise, is gratefully remembered, and
will at the proper time and in appropriate
place at the conclusion of this volume be duly
and particularly acknowledged. We may add —
it is hoped without incurring any gratuitous8
PREFACE.
charge of egotism — that as one of Cape Cod’s
noblest sons undertook, nearly a century and a
half ago, to rescue colonial events that in their
order were becoming involved in obscurity,1
and Morton, at an earlier period, performed a
similar task, the efforts of neither being now
lightly valued; so this attempt to snatch from
the wreck of time what is memorable in almost
three centuries since the discovery of Cape Cod,
we confidently believe, will be regarded with
favor by future generations.
In the following pages the towns will be
taken up in the order of settlement or incorpora-
tion. If in the annals of the towns that precede,
some matters of general public interest are re-
cited that were at the same time similarly
enacted in the other towns, it will not be ex-
pected that, when we come to the annals of the
latter, the record of such transactions shall be
repeated in extenso. Reference only will be
made to them where the action was the same.
1 See, on title page, extract from Rev. Thomas Prince’s preface to
New England Chronology ; and read in connection, the record of the
Mass. Hist. Soc. two or three generations after : “ The Annals of
New England, which have preserved many valuable materials of the
early history of the colonies, which but for the labors of their indus-
trious author would have been irretrievably lost. Posterity, to whom
the principles, feelings, habits, and sufferings of the planters of New
England will be interesting objects of contemplation, will lament that
the neglect of the contemporaries of this gentleman prevented him
from bringing his work to a conclusion.” His second volume was
never published.PREFACE.
9
This is not only necessary to prevent the tedium
of sameness, but to gain room for what remains.
As time advances and settlements multiply, the
narrative of each will, of course, be lessened,
according to the extent of years which their
history covers.
If our narrative is chronological and a variety
of incidents are recorded that are not only
merely local but transitory in their effects, still
this method and relation are necessary; the
order must be seen, and, though often trifling in
and of themselves, the incidents are too im-
portant to be omitted, inasmuch as they indicate
as nothing else can the condition of things at
the moment and the progress being made.
There has ever been a disposition among
historical writers to lose sight of the sparsely
peopled and scattered settlements — the remoter
towns, villages, and by-ways; and to concen-
trate all the interest of their pages on cities and
their inhabitants: the effect of these pages will
be, we think, at least to suggest the question,
What were the city without the country? what
the most flaming zeal without the j7eomanry of
the land ? what the patriotism of a few whose
names have come to be quoted with no recogni-
tion of others without the encouragement and
support derived from patriots around? what
were even a Washington without a soldiery and
vol. n.	210
PREFACE.
the back-bone and cool determination and fer-
vent love of liberty that made up the aggregate
from a whole community ? Cities alone have
always been comparatively impotent in great
emergencies, except, peradventure, as the hot-
beds of riots and mobs. The vox populi is, in
an important sense, the voice of God. How
much the blessings of civil and religious free-
dom, the security and perpetuity of free in-
stitutions, and the suggesting and sustaining
influences of wise counsels and determined sup-
port, are attributable to men and positions un-
acknowledged, were a question of great import.
In speaking of individuals, sects, or parties,
we hold ourself morally bound by the promise
always virtually implied by the very profession
of history — to give a true narrative of events,
presenting no man, sect, or party, from malice,
hatred, or envy, and leaving none unpresented
through fear, favor, affection, or hope of reward;
exhibiting truly all public transactions as they
come to our knowledge, so far as is essential to
the ends of history. Although were we setting
forth a work for the mere amusement of the
reader we might, did our judgment approve,
relate very many anecdotes and incidents of
men and times, neither important to history nor
suited to its true dignity; we can only be true
whether to self-respect or duty in the compilation
of these pages, by discarding all such unworthyPREFACE.
11
temptation. Enough is known of the foibles
of human nature, without individuation; and
transient weaknesses that ought not to obscure
the general reports of fame, may be developed
even by exalted characters. Personal differ-
ences, political animosities, religious dissen-
sions, are all
“ enough for life’s woe”
at the time of them, without being transferred
to stand as if sculpture on the tombs of the
departed, to prejudice the eyes of the surviving.
This last utterance would appear superfluous,
were it not that the diversity of education,
taste, and judgment, found among men, might,
without such intimation, expect us to yield to
other suggestions. We wish to have it dis-
tinctly understood that we have no desire in any
respect to realize the experience of Polycletus in
the statue which he executed according to the
fancy of every one who chanced in his studio.
In furnishing genealogical notices, we some-
what exceeded in our first volume the limits we
had originally intended; but, notwithstanding
the labor required in this department, we are
still disposed to use the great amount of data
we have with much care collected, to give a full
view of descent from original settlers generally.
Let it be understood, however, that if we find it
more convenient, such notices may in many
instances be deferred to the close of this volume;12
PREFACE.
and in. cases unimportant, and especially those
of them in which in addition the blood rake no
manner of interest in their progenitors, we may
defer such notices altogether.
We have but one other remark to make, and
that, inasmuch as the pertinency of our pro-
nouncing this preface a programme, may not
otherwise be understood by such as shall only see
the work when complete in bound volumes, is:
the issuing of it in numbers, or parts, as hitherto,
and at intervals, is the result of confirmed con-
viction that this method has advantages essen-
tial to completeness and accuracy.
Saitdwich, April 1, 1862.CONTENTS
Faob
PREFACE..................................................3
ANNALS OF SANDWICH,.....................................13
YARMOUTH,...................................171
BARNSTABLE,.................................241
EASTHAM,....................................345
FALMOUTH,...................................415
HARWICH,....................................489
TRURO,......................................533
CHATHAM,....................................577
PROVINCETOWN,...............................615
WELLFLEET,..................................651
DENNIS,.....................................687
ORLEANS,....................................719
BREWSTER,...................................737
ADDENDA,...............................................769
CONCLUSION,............................................777
SUBSCRIBERS, LIST OF,..................................781
INDEX, Subjects,.......................................787
Names,........................................  792
Indians,........................................802
Indian Places,..................................803
ERRATA,................................................804ILLUSTRATIONS
1.
2.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
William Bodfish,
William Fessenden,
Zeno Scudder, . . .
Benjamin F. Hallett,
Braddock Dimmick, .
Thomas Fish, . . .
Elijah Swift, . . .
Samuel Lewis, . . .
Thomas Swift, . . .
John Jenkins, . . .
Salathiel Nickerson,
Elijah Cobb, . . .
Ebenezer Nickerson,
Isaac Clark, . . .
Amasa Nickerson,
Benjamin Burgess, .
Isaiah Crowell, . .
To face page
.	.	142
. . 155
. . 338
. . 340
. . 479
. . 478
. . 480
. . 482
. . 483
. . 484
. . 611
. . 764
. . 769
. . 771
. . 772
. . 773
. . 775THE
ANNALS OF THE TOWN
OP
SANDWICH
“It is wisb bob us to bxcub to thb histobt or oub ancestors. Those who do hot
LOOK UPON THEMSELVBSA3 A LINK CONNECTING THB PAST WITH THB FUTURE, DO NOT PERFOBK
thbib duty to thb WORLD.” — Daniel Webster.
(13)Inscription
We can think of no more appropriate Inscription of the Annals of
THIS OUR NATIVE TOWN, THAN
IN MEMORY OF
THE RIGHT REVEREND
GEORGE WASHINGTON FREEMAN, D.D.,
LATE MISSIONARY BISHOP OF THE PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL CHURCH
IN THE DIOCESES OF ARKANSAS AND TEXAS;
WHO,
EMINENTLY UNITING WITH THE PIETY WHICH BECOMES A PRELATE, THE
LEARNING OF A SCHOLAR AND THE COURTESY OF A GENTLEMAN, WAS AN
ORNAMENT TO HIS PROFESSION: ALIKE BELOVED AND REVERED IN
LIFE, AND IN DEATH LAMENTED BY THOUSANDS WHO HAD
ENJOYED THE PLEASURE OF HIS ACQUAINTANCE;
BUT BY NONE BELOVED, RESPECTED, OR LAMENTED MORE SINCERELY
THAN BY HIS BROTHER,
THE AUTHOR.
(14)
ANNALS OF SANDWICH
A grant having been made, April 3, 1637, “ to Mr.
Edmund Freeman and nine associates” who had for
some time previous been residents of Lynn, (Saugus,)
* the same year these ten men of Saugus,” viz:
were, with the exception of Dexter, who came subse-
quently, early on the ground. With them, or soon
after, came also a large number of persons chiefly from
Lynn, Duxbury, and Plymouth, viz:
1 Mr. Almy left town early, and prob. went to It. Island. It has been
supposed that John of Portsmo., who was a capt. in Philip’s war, was his
son. Of the correctness of this last suggestion, we express no opinion.
* Whether this was the distinguished author of ‘New England’s Pros-
pect,* pr. Lond. 1634, is, in the opinion of some, an open question. Mr.
Lewis, author of the History of Lynn, represents Mr. Wood as coming to
Lynn in 1629—admitted May 18, 1631, a townsman — a resident there 4
yrs. during which time he wrote New England’s Prospect — sailed Aug. 15,
1633, for Lond., where he pub. his book 1634, and in 1635 his Map of New
Eng. engraved — the same year returning to Lynn, having embarked Sept.
11 in the Hopewell, Graves master, accompanied by his wife Elizabeth 24
yrs. of age, and he 27, according to the record in Westminster Hall—in
1636 a deputy — and in 1637 going with a qpmpany of about 50 men to
Sandwich, and here is Town Clerk, active, intelligent, talented. All this is
sufficiently circumstantial: we shall have occasion to refer to the subject
again by and by.
3 Mr. Carman does not long appear an inhab. of S. But Mr. Savage
mistakes in supposing that he d. in 1638 ; for he had lands granted him m
S. 1640 and 1641. It is prob. that he went to Long Island and was the
patentee of Hampstead where his son Caleb’s baptism was the first rite of
the kind administered.
Edmund Freeman,
Henry Feake,
Richard Chadwell,
William Almy,1
Thomas Tupper,
William Wood,2
Edward Dillingham,
John Carman,3
George Knott, and
Thomas Dexter,
(15)16
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY,
George Allen,
Thomas Armitage,1
Anthony Besse,
Mr. Blakemore,2
George Bliss,3
Thomas Boardman,4
Robert Bodfish,
Richard Bourne,
William Bray brook,5
John Briggs,3
George Buitt,
Thomas Burge,
Thomas Butler,
Tho. Chil lings worth,7
Edmund Clarke,8
George Cole,9
John Dingley,10
Henry Ewer,
John Fish,
Jonathan Fish,
Nathaniel Fish,
John Friend,11
Peter Gaunt,
Andrew Hallett,12
Thomas Hampton,13
William Harlow,14
William Hedge,16
Joseph Hoi way,
William Hurst,16
John Joyce,17
1	Mr. Armitage had lands gr. in 1641, but his name soon disappears. It
is supposed that he returned to Lynn.
2	Mr. Blakemore, or Blackmore as generally written, was doubtless John
who was appointed to exercise the militia in 1639. After the mention of
him as liable to bear arms in 1643, his name disappears from the records.
3	Mr. Bliss had lands in S. 1641, and perhaps is, as one suggests, the
same who, in 1649, was “ empowered to mend arms ” at Newport. But he
was certainly in S. at a later period, as will be seen.
4	Mr. Boardman, from Lond., was in Plym. 1634, remained in S. sever-
al years, had gr. of lands 1641, but. in 1643 was following the occupation
of a carpenter in Yarmouth.
5	Mr. Braybrook is last known as having lands in S. 1641, and may be
of the same family that subsequently appears in York.
6	Mr. Briggs came over 1635 an. 20. His estate was ad. on by his widow
Catharine, June 1, 1641. His will mentions s. Samuel and dr. Sarah.
7	Mr. Chillingsworth, oftener Shillingsworth in the records, had lands
1641, and was liable to bear arms in S. 1643 ; but soon went to Marshfield,
where he was deputy 1648 and 1652, and died 1653 leaving a wife and
children.
8	Of Mr. Clarke we are certain of nothing more than that he had lands
assigned to him in 1641.
9	Mr. Cole had lands 1641; but, as Mr. Savage says “he d. about 1653,
his inv. being in Lynn June 28 of that yr., it is prob. that he went back to
the latter place. A Henry Cole was in S. liable to bear arms 1643, who,
Mr. Savage says, went to Connecticut.
10	Mr. Dingley went to Marshfield 1644, and d. 1658 leaving a family.
11	Mr. Friend had lands in S. 1641, but prob. went to Ct. and was a sol-
dier in the Pequot war.
12	Mr. Hallett had lands in S., and soon went to Yarm. In 1640, June
28, “ Andrew Hallett of Sandwich ” conveyed certain property in S. to
Daniel Wing — the instrument being witnessed by John Wing and Edw.
Dillingham.
13	Mr. Hampton d. abt. 1638, and prob. had no family. His will, March
1637, makes Mr. Leverich, Thos. Shillingsworth, Thos. Tupper, Peter Gaunt,
ltd. Kerby, and Wm. Harlot, legatees.
14	Mr. Harlow who came to S. from Lynn, had lands in S. 1641. He af-
terwards removed to Plym. He m. Hebecca dr. of Rt. Bartlett, Dec. 20,
1649, and had William 1650, &c. &c.
15	This Mr. Hedge is probably the same that is written Mr. Edge, Vol. I.
p. 164, and removed to Yarmouth.
16	Mr. Hurst m. Catharine Thurston, March 17, 1640, and d. 1640. His
wid. ad. his est. June 1.
17	Mr. Joyce went to Yarmouth 1643.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
17
Richard Kerby,
John King,
Thomas Landers,
Mr. Leverich,
John Miller,1
William Newland,
Benjamin 1ST ye,
Mr. Potter,2 3
James Skiffe,
George Slawson,
Michael Turner,
John Vincent,8
Richard Wade,4 * 6 *
Thomas Willis,
John Wing,
Mr. Winsor,*
Mr. Wollaston,*
Anthony Wright,
Nicholas Wright, and
Peter Wright.
A large proportion of these brought families with them.
The settlement thus begun was not indeed the very
first, as we have seen, Vol. I. p. 113; but to what ex-
tent the plantation at Manomet had grown before this
time, we have no certain means of ascertaining: it had
probably remained as it was in 1627 — a merely tem-
porary trading-establishment and depot for merchan-
dise in transitu.
In 1638, a church appears to have been already
gathered in Sandwich, and Mr. William Leverich was
at the time, or soon after, the pastor.
Considerable changes in the population at a very
early period, are indicated — some removing to other
parts, and others coming in to supply their places:
but the names of some fifteen of the earliest settlers,
have, with the addition of a few others soon succeed-
ing, been the prevailing patronymics to the present day.
It will be noticed that we may not claim for our
native town that its settlement was projected by those
who have usually been denominated par excellence 1 the
1 Mr. Miller had lands in S. 1641, but was soon after in Yarmouth.
* Mr. Potter, probably Robert, had lands 1641.
3	Mr, Vincent was of S. as late as 1657 when he m. Mary Matthews and
probably soon removed to Yarmouth.
4	Mr. Wade disappears after 1641.
6 Joseph Winsor appears many years upon the records; but John is
probably the man here intended.
6 See Mr. Wollaston, Vol. I. p. 165. A deed now in the possession of
Solomon Freeman Esq. of Brewster, dated Dec. 30, 1649, from “ Thos.
Dexter of Sandwich, in the Govt, of New Plym., in New Eng., in America,”
to John Freeman, describes the conveyance on this wise: “ lands next to
the lands of Edmund Freeman Sr. gent. — meadow formerly the land of
Edward Wollaston late inhabitant of Sandwich.”
yol. n.	318
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Pilgrims.' The early settlers here were, in fact, gen-
erally, in some respects, a different order of men: •—
all, probably, ‘ non-conformists ’ and ‘ puritans; ’ and it
is also probable that religious considerations had much
to do with the emigration of the chief of them. They
were, however, we have reason to conclude, not unlike
mankind at the present day, led by the spirit of adven-
ture without being then or subsequently bent on the
establishment of a theocracy. Although they were
generally of the number wafted hither by that tide of
emigration that caused fleets to be in requisition for
the accommodation of the thousands who would migrate
and assayed to locate in another colony; they had,
after observation and reflection, arrived at the conclu-
sion that the Plymouth Colony would, on the whole,
be congenial and present as few obstacles to the con-
summation of their aspirations, as the Massachusetts.
England had, long before the embarkation of ‘ the
Leyden Pilgrims,’ been on the tip-toe of expectation;
and every report from these shores had, from the days
of Gosnold, Pring, Champlain, Weymouth, Popham,
Smith, been scrutinized by capitalists and adventurers.
Especially had the description Smith gave of ‘ New
England ’ — accompanied by a map, and published in
1616, suggested, as he designed, projects for colonizing.
His more general history of Virginia and New Eng-
land, did not abate the interest that had already been
awakened. The charters granted to different compa-
nies before the sailing of the Mayflower, the one in
1606 and the other in 1620, clearly disclose the movings
of the public mind. In fact, the settlement at James-
town in 1607, was but the result of a feeling long
cherished; for, twenty years previous, attempts had
been made to establish a colony under the patronage
of Raleigh; and the attempt, the same year of theANNALS OP SANDWICH.
19
settlement on James River, to plant a colony on the
Kennebeck, is another illustration of the prevalent
spirit of adventure. The Dutch patent granted in
1614, proves how wide-spread was this adventurous
spirit at an early day. The success of those who took
precedence in establishing the New Plymouth Colony
.— as commended by Bradford and Winslow, and in
after years by the publication of Wood’s New England
Prospect embracing the Massachusetts Colony, very
naturally led to further results ; and as favorable
intelligence continued to be received in England from
time to time through letters from these colonies, mer-
chants, capitalists, and others felt the inspiration and
associations for emigration began to multiply.
The ‘ non-conformists ’ were largely inclined to make
the trial: tut the thought of emigration was by no
means confined to them; as is evidenced by the pres-
ence of Morrill in Gorges’ settlement, of Lyford and
Oldham at Nantasket, and of the Browns among the
original patentees under Endicott.
In the first emigration to Plymouth, were “ but few
persons of capital: ” but those who came to Massachu-
setts, were, in numerous instances, men of property as
well as of standing.1 In preferring the Plymouth Colony,
after a short trial of the other, the original settlers of
Sandwich could not have been influenced by the ex-
pectation of a more extended franchise, for the privilege
was in both colonies confined to “ the elect,” and the
style of legislating was in perfect lAeping with this
principle in both; nor was it the assurance that severity
1 “ The Pilgrim Fathers,” by Bartlett, London, says, “ The circumstances
attending the settlement of Massachusetts were widely different from those
under which the colony of the pilgrims struggled into existence. In this
there were but one or two possessed of any capital or influence; the major-
ity had little but their labor, and they had to submit to the hardest condi-
tions to obtain the means of proceeding to America. A single ship had
carried oyer the pilgrims and their fortunes: a fleet now departed with the
emigrants that followed in their wake.”20
HISTORY OE BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
would not be exercised against all who should dare to
propagate or express opinions at variance with the
views of the self-constituted rulers of church and state,
for in either colony due diligence was manifested to
weed-out obnoxious opinions and practices: hut still,
the one was, in their estimation, for some reason, to be
preferred to the other.
We may safely challenge for the first settlers of
Sandwich that whilst they were generally friends of
good order, good government, and wholesome laws, and
were a religious people, they were also in a remarkable
degree free from the acerbities of polemic strife. In
the state of things that they found existing and to
which as good citizens they submitted in all things
proper, there seems to us a good Providence. The
very faults from which their sympathies were withheld,
became instrumental at last in bringing about the
greatest good. The Episcopalians, the Baptists, the
Antinomians, and the Quakers, each in their turn, felt
the rigors of the refusal of the right of religious liberty;
and remonstrances were not to be treated forever with
derision nor the apathy of the Home Government to
be unaroused. Advice long disregarded, at last became
peremptory demand: the right of franchise must be
enlarged; religious preferences must be respected.
Strange to us at the present day it appears, the fathers
of the theocracy regarded the question one of “ death
or submission;” and, conceiving these to be the alter-
natives, delibera^ly resolved to brave the worst: the
result was — the Charter forfeited, religious liberty
proclaimed, the two colonies united in one, and a death-
blow given to that intolerance that had exhibited itself
lamentably hitherto.1
1 Strange too, “ that whilst the English church and government at home
were charged with intolerance, they should have been engaged in overturning»
ANNALS OF SANDWICH.	21
It has been well remarked by an American writer,
“ It is deep cause for congratulation, thanksgiving, and praise
to the Supreme Ruler of nations, that England possessed a supe-
rior power by Charter over the politic course of the first emigrants
to this part of the land, causing them to respect the lives and liber-
ties of those who could not agree with them in religious matters;
for if we look at the severity of treatment exercised towards their
own kindred of pure and pious brethren who differed from them
on trifling points, and take that as a criterion and a sample of a
government it would have been their pleasure to establish here,
we cannot be too grateful for the check that was given them; and
if the c quo warranto’ was termed by them c an instrument of
death,’ the result has worked gloriously for all future generations
by giving them a full freedom to worship the God of heaven and
earth according to the dictates of their own conscience, and allow-
ing every man to be answerable to his Makes, and to his Maker
only, for his thoughts in religious matters.”
Sandwich being incorporated as a town in 1639,
availed dtself the same year of the right now first
granted to towns, of choosing Deputies to meet in legis-
lative assembly. The Indian name of the principal and
central village, was Shawme ; other parts of the town-
ship, important as Indian settlements, were Manomet,
Pokesit, Scussety Kitteaumuty Scorion, and ComassekumJcanet}
Situation and Boundaries. — Sandwich, the most westerly
town in Barnstable County, is situate on the shoulder of Cape
Cod; extending across the isthmus from Barnstable Bay to Buz-
zard’s Bay. It is bounded on the E. by Barnstable; on the S. E.
and S. by Marshpee and Falmouth; on the W. by Buzzard’s Bay,
and N. W. by Wareham and Plymouth; and on the N. by Barn-
stable Bay. — The Town-Hall is 12 m. N. W. from Barnstable the
a system of exclusiveness on the distant shores of America. The tyranny
of the hierarchy, it was alleged, drove the puritans to America; the tyranny
of the puritans forced malcontents to found fresh colonies, stirred up the
spirit of Roger Williams to proclaim the then new doctrine of the non-inter-
ference of the civil magistrate in matters of religion, and urged the Episco-
palians again to insist upon possessing religious and civil liberty for them-
selves in America, and, by so doing, threw open in the land the gates of lib-
erty, which can never again be closed.”—Bartlett.
1 Nearly all Indian names have been differently written at different times.
The modern orthography, Monument, Pocasset, &c. is a wide departure
from Indian orthoepy.22
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
shire-town of the County; and 58 m. S. E. of Boston, the capital
of the State. The mean length, as also the breadth of the town-
ship, is about 10 miles.
Subface, Natubal Divisions, &c.—The almost entire surface
of the township, if we except the salt marshes, may be said to
consist of a continuity of hills or downs of sandy loam, with valleys
and hollows that contain small streams and lakes or pools gen-
erally denominated ponds. In passing from Plymouth to the
Cape by the old county-road, and, soon after crossing the dividing-
line between Plymouth and Barnstable Counties, emerging from a
forest nearly 12 miles in extent with only here and there a habi-
tation or ismall cluster of houses, the traveller is agreeably struck
with a view of West Sandwich — such is the present post-office
name, better known by its former Indian appellation, Scusset, the
perpetuity of which name in preference to modem distinctions we
cannot but think would be in good taste. The brook which in
former times ran through the centre of this-village, crossing the
county-road, and which indicated the course of the early contem-
plated ship-canal across the isthmus,1 has been obstructed by a
mole or dam, and raised to be a pond furnishing valuable power
for mills and various manufacturing purposes. Here, besides a
grist-mill, are machine-shops, including the manufacture of car-
riages, cars, &c^ near which is one of the Cape Cod railroad sta-
tions. The village is pleasant; the soil generally light, but mod-
erately productive. Scusset, in fact, furnishes some good farms;
and one or more of the finest orchards on the seaboard portion of
the State, may be found in this place.2 In this village also was
formerly kept the Inn long known as ‘Swift’s,’ which, with anoth-
er in the central village, long time known as ‘Fessenden’s,’ gave
1 The stream, the course of which is now the bed of Scusset mill-pond,
has been, with Herring River in North Sandwich and Manomet River, the
scene of repeated surveys for a canal; but the construction has been hitherto
as often postponed although the reports of commissioners demonstrated its
practicability. Whether the apprehension that serious difficulties must be
encountered from sand-bars forming at the entrances, and that in the severity
of winter when most needed the canal might be obstructed by ice, or whether
surrounding local prejudices prevailed, we may not pronounce. In the opin-
ion of scientific men, no insuperable obstacle lies in the way, unless it be the
lack of a disposition to invest capital in the enterprise, and the indifference
of legislators to a measure both eminently humane and of great public
advantage. The distance between the navigable waters of the two bays, is
only five miles, and the waters of the two streams running in opposite direc-
tions have but a short space between them, leaving the peninsula almost an
island.
* That located on the farm and around the summer residence of Hon.
Watson Freeman, is especially worthy of note.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
23
to the town a reputation whilom of having two of the best hotels
in the country. These, before the days of Newport and Nahant,
were the summer resort of many distinguished persons and fami-
lies. Retirement, comfort, recreation, and health, were then the
demand — which desiderata were not sacrificed to mere ostenta-
tious display and the poor privilege of being jostled by a promis-
cuous crowd as at modem watering-places. Scusset contains a
meeting-house occupied by Methodists, and is divided into two
school-districts with each its convenient school-house.1 The har-
bor of Scusset is serviceable, but has of late years, being left
unprotected, become much obstructed by the ravages of winds
and tides. In the northern part of Scusset is Dean’s Creek, con-
necting with the harbor, as does also Scusset Creek, into which
empties the brook issuing from the mill-pond. This pond yields
its share of fine trout. Sagamore Hill, an ancient sachem’s seat,
is N. E. of the village. The earliest prevailing names in this part
of the town, were Swift, Burgess, Gibbs, Blackwell, and Ellis, and
remain so to a considerable extent to the present time.
The principal and central village, Sandwich proper, the Indian
Shawme, lies about 2 m. E. of Scusset. In the midst of this vil-
lage, formerly noted for its rural charms, is a beautiful sheet of
water2 connecting with another about half a mile S. in a deep
basin formed by surrounding hills. This latter lake, or pond, is
the original fountain — the lower pond being derived from it and
having been at the first settlement of the town only a small stream
meandering through a long and heavily-wooded swamp, the re-
mains of which may yet be discerned in here and there a large
stump in the bed of the lake. The dam thrown across this ancient
stream, thus raising an agreeable expanse of pure water over the
formerly gently-murmuring pathway of the surplus waters of the
upper lake, affords ample power for mills, &c., as does also another
dam between the upper and lower lakes. The latter power for-
merly propelled the machinery of a cotton factory; the building
is now employed as a tack and nail factory. At the lower dam is
a grist-mill; and marble-works take the place of the ancient card-
1 Scusset, lying N. and N. W. of the Town-Hall and partly between North
Sandwich and the central village or Sandwich proper, extends N. to Peaked
Cliff and the lands of the plantation of the Herring-Pond Indians.
* This, so agreeable to the eye and favorable for sailing recreation, fur-
nishes in winter an expanse of ice for the multitude who
“ sweep
On sounding1 skates a thousand different ways
In circling poise swift as the winds,”
that, for location and extent, can hardly be excelled.24
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
mg, fulling, and cloth-dressing establishments, whose utility has
been superseded by the progress of the age. The Town-Hall is
near by.1 The village contains five meeting-houses, viz.: Unita-
rian, Trinitarian Congregational, Methodist, Universalist, and
Roman Catholic; also an academy, Masonic Hall, hotel, &c. These
are all in that part of the village on the E. side of the town-brook.
The two school-districts, one on either side of the stream, have
each commodious school-houses; as has also a third district con-
nected with the central village and S. W. of the Town-Harbor,
to which village is sometimes applied the name of JarvesviUe2 —
a settlement that has chiefly grown up since the establishment of
the extensive glass-works, and has become the most business-like
in aspect and the most densely settled of any part of the town-
ship. Here is located the Roman Catholic church edifice, and,
besides the works of the Boston and Sandwich Glass Co.3 and of
the Cape Cod Glass Co., are a planing-mill, door, blind, and sash-
factory, numerous stores, shops, artisans’ establishments, &c. A
railway connects the first glass-establishment with the harbor, and
the depot of the Cape Cod R. R. is in this village. In the eastern
part of the central village are other streams, though inconsidera-
ble, that pass the county-road into the harbor. — It were imprac-
ticable to notice particularly all the lesser natural divisions and
various public improvements; but we may briefly mention Shawme
Neck, (modernized Town-Neck,) for a long period a part of the
town’s commons — becoming finally the property of the represen-
tatives of the original freemen, ceasing thenceforward to be in the
control of the town as such — but to be occupied only for pastur-
age, the public to have the right of way. This neck lies adjoining
the beach N. E. of the central village.4 East of this neck, includ-
1 This edifice is sufficiently respectable for the economical views of the
inhabitants ; but is shorn of its dignity by being partly leased for mechan-
ical purposes, rendering it not only less safe as a depository of records, but
giving it the appearance of a work-shop rather than the manor-house of a
corporation.
8 So called in compliment to the enterprising conductor of the first glass-
works erected in the place.
3	In 1850, a glass-bowl made in this establishment was presented to
Hon. Daniel Webster, of which Mr. Deming Jarves, in an accompanying let-
ter, says, “ It claims the merit of being much the largest piece of flint-glass
made by machinery in any part of the world. Two machinists were em-
ployed six months m forming the mould. This bowl is the first made in it,
and is called ‘ the Union Bowl/ The name will not render it less valuable.”
4	This neck, the number of the proprietors of which has been much
reduced, and which is still held in shares, has always been found a most
convenient and valuable tract for the purposes to which it is applied: a
never-failing supply of herbage for cattle has ever distinguished it.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
25
ing a part of the beach, is a narrow strip yielding the very best
clay for the manufacture of brick, and it has long been the source
from whose kilns a plentiful supply has been had of this necessary
material for building.1 South-west of this neck and clay-deposit
courses the salt-water creek into which issues the stream from the
lakes or ponds above, and thence to the harbor. This creek and
the ponds afford their quota of fine trout. The town-harbor,
although the best on the JST. side of the township, is eligible for
vessels of light burden only.2
Proceeding eastward from the central part of the town, and
passing the town-farm or poor-house, another village presents
itself at a place called Spring Hill, where also is a stream afford-
ing mill-privileges; and farther on is situated the meeting-house
of that quiet class of our fellow-citizens, the Friends ; beyond
which is the railroad station. Spring-Hill Creek makes up from
the Town-Harbor, as also Muset Creek. Farther on towards
Barnstable is a small stream emptying into Scorton harbor. Still
beyond, in that part of Spring Hill now called East Sandwich,
is a deep pond having no outlet, generally known as Hoxie’s Pond;
and still S. E. of this is another known for more than a half cen-
tury as Dea. Nye’s Pond, the stream which issues from it being
formerly occupied by a cloth-dressing and carding establishment
as well as grist-mill—now only the seat of the latter. This pond
1 We may not resist the inclination to notice one of the scenes of juvenile
recreation—ay, a recreation of maturer age also —
“ Sports have no date, but age has need.”
On the E. of this beach is an extensive ledge of rocks where, at low-water,
when the rocks are exposed, lobsters may be taken in abundance from cav-
ities beneath. As is well known, this fish is at all times taken by setting
traps or pots in deep water far off from the shore; but in this employment
there is no pastime. In taking the fish from their dens some distance be-
yond low-water mark—wading out into the briny ocean rising to one’s arm-
pits, and by practised touch determining their presence and position — the
implement of assault upon this squilla-genus in their rocky cavities being a
short pole with hook affixed — and drawing them forth without mutilation
and bagging them without self-detriment, this is an exercise; and all the
more agreeable because a utilitarian mode of bathing and sport combined.
And then, their transfer the same hour to the boiling-hot caldron —how
different the luxury from that enjoyed by our unfortunate fellow-cits who,
remote from this field of action, are content with the fish after its imprison-
ment perhaps for weeks in an irritated and feverish state from which it suf-
fers constant deterioration!
*	The old channel of this harbor, which, with the bar at its mouth, was
often changing, has within a few years been artificially closed and a new
channel cut by which the harbor is thought to be much improved. This im-
provement was made at much expense, by consent of the town, chiefly by
file efforts of the Boston and Sandwich Glass Co., under the superintend-
ence of Deming Jarves Esq.
*	vol. n.	426
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
and brook, which empty into Scorton Creek and Harbor, have long
been a favorite resort of anglers who never fell to find in these wa-
ters the finest trout. The school districts in this part of the town
are two, with suitable school-houses. Two or more private schools,
under the direction of Friends, are also located in this part of the
town, and receive a good share of encouragement from abroad.
Still eastward, continuing to the Barnstable line, is a scattered
and somewhat extended settlement called by its ancient Indian
name, Scorton. This is another school district. It contains a
pond having no outlet; and also an apology for a harbor. On
Scorton Neck, which is bounded W. and S. by Scorton Creek and
is nearly surrounded by it, are some valuable estates. There have
been through many generations notable instances of thrifty farm-
ing in this part of the township.
If we return to our starting-point, Scusset, to reconnoitre other
parts of the town, we find west of that village, near the route of
the once contemplated canal, another flourishing village, with the
post-office designation of North Sandwich, long and more famil-
iarly known as Herring River} Herring Pond, from which the
river takes its name, is a large sheet of water extending far into
the township of Plymouth, and invested with somewhat of the
romantic both in its location and scenery.1 2 The river which an-
nually yields a large supply of herring for the Indians’ and Town’s
use, furnishes also a large amount of water-power for mills and
various machinery; and, changing its name at tide-water to Man-
omet River, flows into Buzzard’s Bay. The waters of this side
the isthmus and the Scusset side, we have already said, nearly
join. On this river are the Manomet Iron Works, near the rail-
road depot, a stave-mill, grist-mill, &c. Farther down the river
is a manufactory for edge tools, &c. In the village is a school-
house. Herring Pond affords a supply of fine perch, and the river
is excellent trouting ground.
1 A high conical elevation at this place, was, since the memory of the
writer, marked by numerous Indian graves and still a place of sepulture;
but has now been discontinued as a burying-place, although a remnant of
the tribe yet remain in occupancy of the Indian plantation lying on the
borders of the village, but chiefly within the bounds of Plymouth. The In-
dian meeting-house is near by. It has been said that the name of this ori-
ginal plantation is lost; but there is, we think, scarcely room to doubt that
the plantation of the Herring-Pond tribe was the ancient Comassakumkanet.
* This pond is divided distinctively into Little Herring Pond and Great
Herring Pond. The latter lies chiefly in Plymouth. The river which issues
from these, is in North Sandwich.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
27
Monument, the Indian Manomet, is another considerable village
lying W. and S. W. of North Sandwich. Here was the ancient
trading-house of the Plymouth adventurers.1 In Monument are
Congregational andMethodist meeting-houses, an academy, and two
school-houses. Here also is a stream2 used for milling and manufac-
turing,3 having its outlet in the hay and situate in that part of
Monument reaching from Manomet River to Pocasset. This latter
river, it need hardly be said, is navigable. A good supply of oysters
and other shell-fish are yet found in this river and parts adjacent;
and here also is fine sport for those fond of fishing for tautog, scup-
paug, and blue fish. Between the mouth of Manomet River and
Cohasset Narrows, is Bourne’s Neck; and near the railroad depot
in Monument is Bourne’s Pond. Back River harbor, whose N. W.
bound is Rocky Point, has Hog Island west of its entrance. Mash-
nee Island is S. of Hog Island, and E. S. E. of this is Burgess’ Island,
being W. of the S. corner of Monument. At Back River are salt-
works—the last remaining of formerly extensive manufactures of
the kind in Sandwich.4 At Monument is a railroad depot, with
which the Falmouth stages regularly connect.
Cohasset, the point at which the waters divide Monument and
Cowesit — a neck of land in Wareham, has a few inhabitants, and
has become somewhat important by reason of its coasting facili-
ties. A whar£ at the Narrows, in immediate contiguity with the
railroad, becomes annually the deposit of a large amount of coal for
manufacturing and other purposes. Here also is fine fishing ground.
Another village, on Buttermilk Bay, known as the Head op
the Bay, has long afforded very considerable advantages for nav-
igation. Here, not far from the Plymouth line is a pond connect-
ing with another smaller .pond in Plymouth, both emptying into
Little Buttermilk Bay. Here also is Sewall’s Pond, no outlet.
Cedar Pond empties into the bay. Agawam Point is S. of the
mouth of Cedar Pond outlet. Here again, the supply of fish, es-
pecially shell-fish, is abundant.
1	Situate on Manomet River—a continuation of Herring River and con-
necting with Buzzard’s Bay.
2	Called Perry’s Mill-pond, whose outlet is Back River.
3	Here at present is a grist-mill and a nail factory. East of Perry’s Mill-
pond, is Deep-Bottom Pond, in the woods.
4	For a time, the net profits upon the capital invested in this town in the
salt-manufacture, averaged 25 per cent.; but the business here, as elsewhere
on the Cape, succumbed finally to a different state of things; and the invest-
ment, from being extensive, became from year to year less and less, until,
at last, the works were used only so long as they remained undecayed and
fit for use without expensive repairs.28
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Returning from this excursion in the direction of Wareham,
and retracing our steps through the entire length of Monument
westward and southward, we come to the ancient 2d Precinct of
Sandwich, called by the early Indians Poughkeeste—at a later
period Pokesit, and now called Pocasset. It is situated on Buz-
zard’s Bay. Barlow’s River, its nearly NT. W. bound, is the site
of extensive iron-works for hollow-ware and castings, as also a
manufacture of edge tools. Here is a Baptist meeting-house.
S. W. of the river’s mouth, is Wenaumet Neck,1 the extreme
point of which is called Wing’s Neck—where is a light-house.
Between this neck and Scraggy Neck, and W. of Red Brook
harbor, is Bassett’s Island. Red Brook connects Handy’s Pond
with the harbor. On this stream, are mills which turn out large
quantities of flour and meal. The flour is celebrated, and com-
mands an extra price. This part of Pocasset is called South
Pocasset. East of Handy’s Pond is Swift’s Pond, and still E. is
Flax Pond. Scraggy Neck, formerly parsonage property of the
1st Parish and situated S. W. of Red Brook harbor, is now at high
water an island. In South Pocasset is a Methodist meeting-
house occupying the place of the old 2d Precinct Cong, meeting-
house, and around it is an ancient burial-place. The school dis-
tricts in Pocasset are three, with convenient school-houses. As
we pass on by the road to N. Falmouth, is a small pond, and S. E.
of this is Long Pond, about E. of which is Bear-Hollow Pond not
far from the Marshpee line — all in the forest. In Pocasset waters,
are found an ample supply of fish, including the trout.
We have thus, in our wanderings, since our notice of Scorton,
described a nearly semi-circuitous route, leaving a large tract of
woodland on the left, in the centre of the entire circuit. A road
cutting through this central forest, from Pocasset to Sandwich —
central village, brings us, nearly equi-distant from the two places,
to the Soconessit Ponds, in Soconessit Hollow, near by which is
Opening Pond — all in deep recesses surrounded by densely-
wooded, rocky, precipitous hills.
If we pass through these woods from Pocasset to South Sand-
wich, we find N. of Bear-Hollow and N. W. of Marshpee, Weeks’
Pond, and E. of this Snake Pond—the two united by a narrow
passage. The latter pond is large. Near it is the village now called
Greenville, where is a Methodist meeting-house and school-
house. This and other portions of the S. W. part of the town-
1 Doubtless the “ Katamet,” or “ Kitteaumut, on Buzzard’s Bay,” often
referred to by early writers.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
29
ship, formerly known under the general designation of ‘The
Woods,’ and the particular designations Snake Pond, Wakeby,
Hog Pond, &c., have become settlements of increased importance
known by distinctive post-office appellations. Peter’s Pond, on
the E. side of the village of Greenville, is a large and beautiful
lake; and S. of this is the Indian Wakepee. Between the two,
S. W. of the one, and N. W. of the other — bordering on the land
purchased of the Mashpees and the present Marshpee plantation,
is Pimlico Pond. Wakepee, or as it is now called, Wakeby Pond,
is N. of Marshpee Pond and united to it, the latter being also
bounded on the E. by purchased Marshpee lands.1 Wakeby is a
1 We are strongly tempted, and we have no doubt will be pardoned for
yielding to the impulse, to quote in this place the opening paragraph of a
letter (priv. cor. Vol. H. p. 257) of Hon. Daniel Webster to his son, and the
editorial note of that son. Our admiration of Wakeby and Marshpee Ponds
would help us easily to conceive how either might lend inspiration; but,
whilst we confess
“ The power, the beauty, and the majesty
That have their haunt in dale or piny mountains,
Or forest by slow stream, or pebbly spring,”
we hardly supposed a wade through the depth and length of Marshpee River
would be most favorable to the infusion of lofty thought. The line or two
of the letter, which we give with its facetious quotation, will, with the edito-
rial explanation, need no comment of ours:
“ Marshfield, June 12, 1847.
“ My dear Son: I received yours last night with the gear.......... I
have fixed my old John Trout rod, and it does very well:—‘Venerable
man, you have come down to us from a former generation,’ &c. &c. &c.”
.... The editorial note explanatory, is this: — “ The Marshpee River
flows from a very large lake called Wakeby Pond, in Barnstable County,
into the ocean, on the S. E. coast of Mass. It is a short and rapid stream
running into a deep valley, or, rather, ravine, with high precipitous sides
covered with a thick‘growth of small pines and various kinds of brush-wood
and shrubs. The only method of fishing it, is by wading along the middle
and throwing under the banks on either side, it being unapproachable other-
wise owing to the trees and underbrush. It was, as he states in his auto-
biography, whilst middle-deep in this stream, that Mr. Webster composed
a great portion of his first Bunker Hill address. He had taken along with
him that well-known angler, John Denson, usually called ‘ John Trout/ and
myself. I followed him along the stream, fishing the holes and bends which
he left for me ; but, after a while, began to notice that he was not so atten-
tive to his sport, or so earnest as usual. He would let his line run care-
lessly down the stream, or hold his rod still while his hook was not even
touching the water; omitted trying the best places under the projecting
roots of the pines, and seemed indeed quite abstracted and uninterested in
his amusement. This, of course, caused me a good deal of wonder, and,
after calling his attention once or twice to his hook hanging on a twig, or
caught in the long grass of the river, and finding that after a moment he
relapsed again into the same indifference, I quietly walked up near him and
watched. He seemed to be gazing at the overhanging trees, and presently
advancing one foot and extending his right hand, he commenced to speak,
‘ Venerable men/ &c. &c. We afterwards frequently referred to the cir-
cumstance, as he does in the above letter.”30
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
romantic sheet of water, variegated by islands, and is much fre-
quented for sailing excursions. Pickerel are found here, as in
numbers of the other ponds. Lily Pond is S. E. of Wakeby, and
E. of Wakeby is the village of South Sandwich. N. E. of the
latter village, and S. of Spring Hill, is a large pond called from its
peculiar shape Spectacle Pond; S. of this is Triangle Pond; E. of
this is Lawrence Pond; S. E. is Lower Hog Pond, and still E. is
Upper Hog Pond — both clear pleasant waters, and lying towards
the Barnstable line. These all are embraced within what is now
called Fabmebsville.
There are numerous other smaller ponds scattered over the
township: those already mentioned are the most prominent,
though some of them are of little importance. In short, the town-
ship in every part abounds with ponds and brooks, and numbers
of these are stored with fish—perch, trout, or pickerel. The
trout, which, of course, occupy, for the most part, waters from
which their relentless enemy the pickerel are excluded, are abun-
dant and very fine, having access to both fresh and salt water.
Those taken in the salt-water creeks at certain seasons, are found
to be much improved by their alternating propensities. This
beautiful and delicious fish has through a long course of years
invited to these waters numerous disciples of Izaak Walton.
The herring, largely supplied in their season, by Herring River
through which this fish ascends in the Spring-months to Herring
Pond, for spawning, are much valued.1 It was, from the very first
settlement of the town, an object to encourage the access of this
fish to the ponds they had been accustomed to frequent; but the
only stream of which they have held possession in any considera-
ble numbers to the present time, is indicated above. An opening,
as will be seen, was early provided for their passage to the ponds
in the central village—their natural course having incautiously
been obstructed by the dams and mills first erected: but though
1 The reader will, of course, understand that alewives are meant. Wood,
in his “ New Eng. Prospect, being a true, lively, and experimental descrip-
tion of that part of America, commonly called New England, 1634,” very
properly distinguishes between herring and alewives: “ The herring,” he
says, “ be much like them on the English coasts: alewives be a kind of fish
much like a herring, which in the latter end of April come up to the fresh
rivers to spawn, in such multitudes as is almost incredible, pressing up such
shallow waters as will scarce permit them to swim.” The English Tierring,
formerly taken in immense quantities on the coasts of the Cape, but especially
in Cape Cod harbor, seem of late years to have made the waters of Lubec
in Maine and other eastern locations their favorite resort: the alewives are
ever as sure to revisit their ancient rivers as the Spring is to return.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
31
these fish have continued to present themselves annually in suffi-
cient force persistently to assert and hold valid their original title
to the waters above, they have ever evinced an aversion to scaling
the sluice-way proposed for their accommodation; and, finding
the mills as persistently occupying the legitimate path-way, have,
as often, appeared to content themselves to avow their disposition
to occupy their rightful domain on ancient and honorable terms.
The long-continued abundant supply from the other source indi-
cated, has thus far prevented further parley with them or the
yielding of the accommodations demanded.
The bays and their inlets still, as formerly, yield their supply
of cod,1 haddock, bass,2 halibut,8 sheepshead, mackerel,4 tautog,
scup, bluefish, flounders, smelts, eels,6 and other fish, whenever a
challenge is fairly offered: but piscation was at no period of the
history of Sandwich a prominent employment of its inhabitants ;
1	This fish has certainly made no progress in these waters since the days
of Wood: he says, “ Cod-fish in these seas are larger than in New-found
land, 6 or 7 of them making a quintal.”
2	Wood is quite enthusiastic in his description of the treasures of the
deep, and even indulges in elaborate rhyme. He says, 44 There be all man-
ner of fish: —
“ The stately basse old Neptune’s fleeting post
That tides it out and in from coast to coast, ”
which he pronounces 44 one of the best fishes in the country, for tho’ men
are soon wearied with other fish, yet they are never with basse; it is a deli-
cate, fine, fat, fast fish having a bone in his head, which contains a saucerful
of marrow sweet and good, pleasant to the palate and wholesome to the
stomach. When there is great store of them we only eat the heads, and
salt up the bodies for winter, which exceed ling or heberdine. Of these
fishes, some be 3 & 4 ft. long. The fisherman taking a great cod-line to
which he fastens a piece of lobster, throws it into the sea—the fish biting
at it he pulls her towards him and knocks her on the head with a stick.
These are, at one time, when alewives pass up, to be caught in rivers; in
lobster times, at the rocks; in mackerel times, in the bays; at Michaelmas,
in the seas. When they use to tide it in and out to the rivers and creeks,
the English at the top of high water do cross the creeks with long seines or
bass-nets which stop the fish, and the water ebbing from them, they are
left on the ground sometimes 2 or 300 at a set.”
3	44 The wry-mouthed halibut,” says Wood, “ is not much unlike a place
or turbot; some be 2 yds. long, 1 wide, and 1 ft. thicke ; the plenty of bet-
ter fish makes them of little esteeme, except the head ana finnes which
stewed or baked is very good. These be little set by while basse is in season.”
4	These,
“ The macrells, richly clad
With rainebow colours,”
says our accurate observer, 4‘ be of two sorts: in the beginning of the year
are great ones which be on the coast, some 18 in. long. In summer, come
in a smaller kind — taken with drailes, a long small line with lead and
hooks being baited with red cloth. Here they are so fat as scarcely can be
saved.”
6 44 Salt water eeles taken in pots made of osyers, baited with lobster.
Some take a bushel in a night.”32
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
and of late years its dependence for supplies of this sort has been
chiefly on the toils of the inhabitants of other places; labors of
more utility taking the precedence here.
Oysters which were once very abundant and of superior quali-
ty, have not entirely vacated their beds; but, in some of the best
locations, have become nearly exterminated. They are yet sup-
plied in diminished quantities from Manomet River; but, from the
constant exactions upon them, are of small size. Those in the bays
on the south side, formerly abundant and very large and finely
flavored, have ceased, except as occasionally the once noted ‘ bay-
oyster ’1 is discovered by some lucky wight, in deep water whither
they have withdrawn.
Clams2 3 and quohogs are yet at hand; the latter especially on
the south side. Some of the large sea-clam8 yet remain on the
north side, and lobsters in great profusion.
Large tracts of woodland are yet covered with oak and pine.
These are valuable; and lie south and west of the villages that
are stretched along on the old county-road, separating them from
the villages S. and W. of these tracts. In these forests are deer
and other game. It is a singular fact that the oldest, should be
the only district where are found the original tenants of the soil,
biped and quadruped—Indians and the fallow deer.4 * * * Partridges
1	These, in their primitive condition, were very aptly described by Wood:
“ The oisters be great ones in form of a shoe-home, some a foot long.
The fish without the shell so big it must admit of a division to be got in
your mouth.”
2	Wood says, “ Clams, or Clamps, lye under the sand, every six or seven
of them having a round hole to take air and receive water at. When the
tide ebbs and flows, a man running over these clam banks, will presently be
made all wet by their spouting of water out of these small holes.”
3	These are doubtless the same of which Wood says, “ In some places
there be clams as big as a penny white loaf.”—But we can indulge no fur-
ther in quotations from Mr. Wood’s account of the fishes — except to add a
few lines from his notice of “ shel-fish,” which we give rather as a specimen:
“ The luscious lobster, with the crabfish raw,
The brinish oister, muscle, periwigge,
And tortoise sought for by the Indian squaw
Which to the flats dance many a winter’s jigge
To dive for cockles, and to digge for clams,
Whereby her lazie husbands guts shee cramms.”
4	The range for this animal extends from Plymouth and Wareham to
Falmouth and Barnstable, the Elizabeth Islands included. Under the pro-
tection of laws limiting to appropriate seasons the time of taking them,
and defining the manner of hunting, deer have continued to increase. —
We are here reminded of a queer statement of Wood in his New England
Prospect, whose credulity we have had occasion to notice m our former
volume, and whose narrative quoted in the preceding pp. of this, although
partaking sometimes of the marvellous, proves him to have been, as he is
represented, one of the most intelligent observers of his time: he says,ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
33
and quails are common.— The forests and plains were once the
common resort of large flocks of sheep. Raised here in great
numbers, the forage being well adapted to their development,
Sandwich-mutton was once proverbially of excellent quality.1
The average price in the month of October, when sold to drovers,
was only about one dollar per head, and the meat was greatly
preferred by connoisseurs. Goats were also in the early days con-
sidered a species of stock worthy of attention!2
Extensive salt marshes and fresh meadows, yield large crops of
provender for stock; but by reason of the great increase of the
English grasses, they have ceased to be valued as formerly. These
marshes afford much game; but, notwithstanding the aversion of
the owners of these grounds to the foot of sportsmen treading
down their meadows, the plover, curlew, and a numerous cata-
logue of smaller and delicious shore-birds, have, from incessant
persecution, become less numerous than in former days. The
wild-goose, duck, teal, &c. with their great varieties, have also be-
come scarce; the natural result of the increase of population.
The whip-poor-will, the boblincoln, and the robin, continue to en-
liven the air with their notes; but in greatly diminished numbers.
Although these last belong to a class of birds that shrink from the
gloomy and uncultivated parts of any country, not deigning to
dwell in solitudes, or to put forth their melody to rocks and trees
alone, they seem too generally to have resented the frequent an-
noyances which in latter days they have met, and seek for resting-
places of greater security. In a word, the town, once proverbial
for its rural pleasantness, has been measurably shorn of many of
its earlier charms. Still, it is a delightsome location, in the view
of those who have been nurtured here; and no town in our ex-
tended country can boast of a more salubrious atmosphere, purer
water, greater healthfulness, or more of the general comforts and
conveniences of life.3
“ It is not to be thought into what great multitudes they would increase,
were it not for the common devouring wolf. They have -generally three at
a time, which they hide a mile one from the other, giving them suck by
turns. Thus they do, that if the wolf should find one, he might miss of the
other. Of these deer, there be a great many, and more in Massachusetts
Bay than in any other place, which is a great refreshment to those planters.”
1 In the early days, shepherds were employed for these flocks. Of late
years, being excluded from the woods and waste places, sheep have nearly dis-
appeared from the town and are an article of import for the necessary supply.
5 The “ Goat-pasture lots ” indicate this.
3 In the Monthly Anthology for 1821, we find some notes by Tudor, describ-
ing an excursion made by mmself and kindred associates, to Sandwich and
VOL. H.	534
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY
The employment of the people of this town, is maritime, maun*
factural, and agricultural; but the town in its general character,
is more agricultural than otherwise—largely manufactural, but
less maritime probably than any other town on the Cape. The
quality of the soil, especially on or near the E. side of the road
extending from Scusset to Barnstable, is generally good, well-
cultivated, and productive. In other parts of the township, there
is some good soil; but for the most part it is light and not so
favorable for grain or grasses. Orchards succeed well, and by
proper attention may be made a source of much profit.
The town being chiefly agricultural, and next to that manufac-
turing, the number of vessels owned here is small, and occupied
generally in home-pursuits. Still, besides the coasters and pack-
other places on the Cape. As these notes relate to former times and
graphically detail some matters of interest, we quote, in condensed form:
“ After leaving Plymouth, on our way to Sandwich, we passed the
Sacrifice Bocks, covered with dry sticks by Indians — who never allowed
themselves to pass these rocks without an offering of this kind; the rem-
nant of some unknown superstition. On reaching S. we gave a brief order
for dinner. * Every thing there was in the house.’ We had a most esurient
longing worthy of a municipality, for the good things of this region of game.
The next order was to send for John Trout, to engage him during our
stay This second name, like that of Scipio Africanus, was the reward for
the most distinguished services. His piscatory exploits and minute knowl-
edge of all the haunts, habits, and connections of some of our most valuable
fishes, entitle him to the honor of a distinguished place among the Ichthy-
ologists in the New York Academy, and we hope this hint will fall under
their notice. John is in fact a man of so much renown that those who have
never heard of him would do well to conceal their misfortune; for he might
well say,
* Not to know me, argues yourself unknown,—
The meanest of your tribe.’ ”
(His portrait is preserved with care among the embellishments of the Athe-
naeum.) “His skill and alacrity were shown in some very fine trout that
graced our breakfast-table the next morning.—The next day was one of
those exquisite days of vernal softness and autumnal ripeness harmonious-
ly blended, when the scattered clouds which were floating under the mildest
cerulean sky, we might almost fancy to be the vehicles that were bearing about
the spirits of the blest, high above this nether world of strife, conventions,
and cattle-shows ; — one of those days, in short, in which every feeling mind
would bless the memory of our forefathers for having landed here. We
proceeded together, John as an outrider, to Deacon Nye’s Brook, about five
miles on the road to Barnstable. Here, under the auspices of John,—
‘ auspice Teucrof — one of the party commenced snipe-shooting, and an-
other trout-catching. Another two continued on to Great Marshes, and yet
another to visit Barnstable town, where he had never been before, and which
(having caught the inspiration of John) he reported on his return, as very
little changed. Great Marshes is a fertile spot where the Otis family have
continued for five or six generations, and where the celebrated patriot,
James Otis Jr., was born. By one of the family we were obligingly fur-
nished with a few documents for the Historical Society.
“We dined at four on the proceeds of the day’s sport, aided, it is true, byANNALS OP SANDWICH.
35
ets, some interest is taken in this village in other navigation, and
whalers sailing from other ports find owners in part here. Ship-
building which was once carried on in different parts of the town,
the timber being furnished by the forests at hand, has now ceased
entirely.
The several inlets in and about Buzzard’s and Buttermilk Bays,
as also Manomet River, afford safe harbors and sufficiently com-
modious for the navigation proposes of limited extent in the use
of craft of small burden, of the inhabitants in the S. side of the
township; whilst, on the opposite side, Scusset, Spring Hill or
Scorton harbors* with Town Harbor, are found in the same degree
convenient. The harbors, though adequate to the vocation gen-
erally of the inhabitants, are none of large capacity; and hence,
a few supplementary dishes, of which it is only necessary to particularize
Tautog and Sandwich Mutton. This latter is worthy of all praise. It
resembles exactly the mutton of ‘ the Downs of Britain/ considered as the
first on the island ‘ of that ilk.’ Suffice it to say, that a gastrologer would
devour it, a gastronomer enjoy it, and a gastrophilist appreciate it. John
very candidly said that trout were now out of season. The best months for
them are May and June. He agreed that the trout of Coaiuit were among
the very best; but, he said, * the natives ’ (he rhymed them with knives,)
‘ were great poachers in that stream * — (their own domain!)
“ Before we dismiss the meritorious John, a piece of his reasoning may
be recorded, that partakes a little of the raciness of his Hibernian origin.
When asked what was due for his services, (merely to ascertain the fact,
with no paltry trading notions of cavilling about the price, — this would
not have done with one of his lofty pursuits, the occupation of the privi-
leged ones of earth,) — he told us that ‘ his wages were $1.25 a day; this/
he added, ‘was the price when grain (corn, Indian com) was $2 a bushel,
and he should not increase the price, although com was now selling at 50 c.
per bushel: he would not charge more.’
“The next day, we went to Marshpee Indian Meeting-House. . . . It was
Sunday. The men sit on one side of the meeting-house; the women on
the other. . . .
“ Sandwich is one of the most pleasant villages in Massachusetts. To
persons fond of fishing, sporting, or riding, it offers greater resources
than any other spot in this country. Snipes, plovers, quails, partridges,
are abundant; and also deer. Coatuit, Waquoit, Manomet, and fifty other
brooks are full of the finest trout, &c. Both bays are full of fish. And in
Buzzard’s Bay, oysters and other kinds of shell-fish are plenty. The roads
are excellent towards the Vineyard Sound. Some parts of Sandwich re-
semble districts in Surrey and Sussex in England.
“ The population is stationary. But then they send off numerous recruits.
The State of Massachusetts owes most of its inhabitants originally to ‘ the
Cape.’ You may see a good deal of poor land; but you see very few poor
men. The whole appearance of the population is solid, substantial, com-
fortable.
“ The territorial extent is to be estimated by adding triple to the amount
of land, from the surrounding sea. These acres of the sea produce five
times as much as the richest fields of the South and West. Fisher Ames
once said that ‘ every cod-fish drawn up had a pistareen in its mouth.’ —
We would not like to live in a locality not ventilated by a sea-breeze.”HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
36
probably, decide measurably the business of the towii in a mari»
time aspect.
The population of the town was in 1800, as per census, 2024,
occupying 296 houses. In 1850, it was 4181. In 1860, it was
4489, and the number of tenements 903, occupied by 960 families.
The Cape Cod Railroad, passing through the town, having
depots or stations at Cohasset, Monument, North Sandwich, West
Sandwich, Sandwich, and Spring Hill, has, of course, changed
very much the mode of travel, and may, possibly, have quickened
the enterprise of the place.
Sandwich has, in times past, been distinguished for the educa-
tional facilities it has afforded. The multiplication of schools of
high order in every part of the State, has left it nothing entitling
it now in this respect to preeminence. Many persons of high dis-
tinction have received their academic education here ; and from
among its own native-born, have arisen those who, from the ear-
liest history of the town, have been talented, and whose patriot-
ism and integrity have been approved by their public career.1
Progress of the Town, from its settlement.—We have
already noted the first settlement of the town. The
first circumstantial account of the Churcb in Sandwich,
shows 11 male members, viz.: Edmund Freeman,2 Richard
1 In an early No. of the publications of the Mass. Hist. Soc., are statistics
of the mortality in the 1st Cong. Soc* in Sandwich, from Jan. 1,1790, to Jan. 1,
1800 $ and as this parish at that time embraced at least three-fourths of the
population of the whole town — say about 1500 out of 2000, those statis-
tics may be regarded as a very fair exhibit of the health of the town from
its first settlement to the present time.
The deaths were.
in lfiOO pop.	Of 184 deaths,	The population living
24 in year 1790.		31 d. under 1 year.			90 yrs. or more, as 1 to 30.	
19 “	1791.	18 d. bet. 1 and 5.			80 “	“ i«ii.
12 «	1792.	9	«	5 « 10.	70 “	« 1 “ 6.
22 «	1793.	15	u	10 “ 20.	60 “	“ 1 « 4.
20 “	1794.	24	M	20 “ 30.	50 “	“ 1 “ 3.
19 “	1795.	13		30 “ 40.	40 “	k j (( 21.
89 “	1796.	16	<<	40 “ 50.	30 “	“ 1 “ 244.
13 “	1797.	12	ft	50 “ 60.	20 “	“ 1 “ 2f
6 “	1798.	16	M	60 “ 70.		
10 “	1799.	14	ti	70 “ 80.	^ The average number of	
——		10	M	80 “ 90.	deaths per	annum, 18| ; i.e., as
184 in 10	years.	6	M	90 “ 100.	1 to 81J.	
Note — that the population of the entire town was in 1790 precisely 1991,
and it had increased in 1800 to 2024.
* Mr. Edmund Freeman, the leading proprietor of the town, was bom
in England abt. 1590. He brought with him from Eng., two sons, Edmund
Jr. ana John, one 15, and the latter 8 yrs, of age at the time of their embarka-ANNALS OP SANDWICH.	37
Bourne, Thomas Tupper, Thomas Burge,- James Skeffe,
William Newland, Peter Gaunt, Richard Kerby, John
Newland, Ralph Allen, and George Allen. And here
we may as well remark that, although it is not our
purpose to givq any thing more than the general eccle-
siastical history of the towns, yet, for reasons that must
be obvious, we may mention with some particularity
the history of the churches at the beginning, the Colony
generally being settled by churches as such, and the
pastor and leading church-members in each community
being the prominent personages. There can be no
doubt that public worship was maintained in the settle-
ment from the very commencement; and there can,
perhaps, be as little room to doubt that there was from
the first an organized church. When the first meeting-
house was erected does not appear; but as early as
1644 it was found necessary to repair the meeting-house,
and, singularly enough, it was then called “ the old
meeting-house.” This last circumstance is suggestive
of the impression that it had been a question whether
to repair or build.
If some matters quite minute and of themselves of
little general interest shall appear in the annals of the
tion in 1635, both of whom married drs. of Gov. Prince. He also brought
with him daughters: Alice, the eldest, who was 17 when the family left Eng.,
and who m. Dea. William Paddy of Plym., the first treas. of the Colony;
and Elizabeth, the third child in order, aged 12, who m. Mr. John Ellis of
Sandwich. It is said of Mr. Freeman that “ he was a man of consideration
in England, and brought with him much valuable plate; ” which last remark
we suppose was intended to be indicative of his position in society. Such,
perhaps, it might have been at that day; but it would be a poor criterion
now. It is said, moreover, that he acted as the “ confidential agent ” of
certain of the “merchant adventurers.” This would seem to be corrobo-
rated by his correspondence with Mr. Beauchampe, “ a London merchant
and valuable friend to the colony,” who was also brother-in-law to Mr. Free*
man. Mr. Freeman was not only conspicuous in town affairs, but was from
1640 to 1646 inclusive, Assistant in the government of the Colony. He
lived to be 92 yrs. old, dying in Sandwich m 1682. His sons Edmund and
John, were also prominent, both being Deputies to the Gen. Ct., and the
latter, who removed to Eastham, also Assistant The descendants of these
have been numerous in the County of Barnstable, and axe widely scattered
over the U. States and elsewhere.38
mSTOET OF BARNSTABLE county.
towns, still, we trust, it will be considered that, given
as they are found on the records, although in fragments,
they help the inquirer to apprehend the condition and
character of the people. President Dwight has well
remarked that “ a country changing rapidly as New
England” did, especially in its incipiency, “must, if
truly exhibited, be described in a manner like that in
which a painter would depict a cloud: the form and
colors of the moment must be seized.”
We have already mentioned Eev. William Leverich
as the first minister, and in a note, first vol., have inti-
mated the chief that we know of his early history.
The precise , time of his coming to Sandwich is not
asserted. In 1687 a lot was assigned to him in Dux-
bury where he was associated with Kev. Mr. Partridge
in the ministry ; but he was certainly in Sandwich
before 1640, and probably immediately after the com-
mencement of the settlement, for we find in the colo-
nial records of that period, the reply to sundry ques-
tions submitted to‘the grantors “by Mr. Leverich and
others of Sandwich,” — showing pretty conclusively that
he was among the very first on the ground; or that if
he was not here in 1637 he was in intimate union with
those who were here, and was seeking for light that
would determine his deliberations in regard to a settle-
ment here. We are unavoidably constrained to a con-
viction of the correctness of the former position; be-
lieving that he was not merely performing a kindly office
for- the actual settlers in Sandwich by his influence at
Plymouth whilst he yet continued at Duxbury contem-
plating a removal, but had already become a bom fide
settler, and that the expression “of Sandwich” em-
braced him as well as others.1
1 The data to which we refer, is. a document, of 1637, entitled "An
Answer to the propositions made by Mr. Leveridge and others of Sandwich
concerning the land there.” We copy:ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
39
The reason why the settlement, begun with vigor,
embracing a competent number of respectable and
well-ordered families, with at least the ordinary propor-
tion of wealth, generally united in religious views —
views which, so far as now appears, were in consonance
with those professed by the colonial government, and
disposed as they were to maintain the institutions of
religion, were not at once allowed the rights of a town,
does not to us clearly appear. One thing is very evi-
dent,—that during its pupilage or probation of two or
three years, it received its due share of the attentions
of that august tribunal, the Colonial Court. We have
“ Prop. 1: Whether the undertakers have a full gift of the lands at Sand*
wich, or whether a conditional grant only for the settling of a convenient
number there that may be useful for the commonwealth and chiefly fit for
church fellowship ? — Ans: To the 1st We answer; for your term of under-
take^ we rather put instead thereof Committies as suiting more properly
with the relation betwixt them and us, their grant being conditional ana
not absolute, and the trust committed to them being for the care of the gov-
ernment and more convenient accommodation of such people ^s shall be
qualified according to the condition and intent of the grant and their joint
premises.
“ Prop. 2: Whether such of them as are still at Saugus shall have any
power at all there, either to dispose of things or to possess any lands at all
in case they come not to inhabit?—Ans: To this 2d we answer negatively;
for when they made suit to us, it was as a people straitened and pretending
removal really with all possible conveniency.
“ Prop. 3: Whether it may not be thought convenient to add some oth-
ers in their stead to the rest, in case they come not—such as are of the
church there, or neighbors of good report?—Ans: To the 3d we answer
affirmatively, if need require: provided you make choice of such as the
Govt, shall approve of, for they are but committies.
“ Prop, 4. Whether they may not substitute any in their rooms, in case
they be necessarily called to be absent ?^Ans: To the 4th we answer as
to the 3d.
“ Prop. 5: Whether if this power be abused, how it may be reformed ?—
Ans: To the 5th, as abuses snail arise, upon due complaint the magistrates
must do justice as in other cases.
“ Prop. 6: Whether in particular it be not an abuse of the power in case
they should monopolize the chief places of conveniency for lands, woods,
meadows, &c., to the prejudice of the town in general ? — Ans: To the 6th
we answer; such the case may be, and the damage to the whole so great as
not to he suffered: but if the committies be faithiul and able of estate their
pains will not be small, now their estates must be provided for, and their
pains will require more than ordinary accommodation.
“ To the Query in the letter, Whether two townships, &c., we answer, we
made the grant of the lands to one; neither can there be any other without
the allowance of the Govt.; but if the lands far off be disposed of for farms
to men of estate, we see no cause of dislike.”40
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
no evidence of any dissatisfaction being expressed at
this; and, therefore, may presume that however vigilant
were the authorities, and however strictly municipal
regulations were enforced, or summarily delinquencies
were visited, the inhabitants were, as a community of
sober, intelligent, law-abiding citizens, not disposed to
utter a murmuring word.
We have no intent to recapitulate all that is found
on the records of the court from time to time; but, as
in our first volume, we adverted to some instances to
convey an idea of the watchfulness observed, so here
we may do the same to show at least the frequent in-
conveniences to which the people were subjected in
attending courts at Plymouth. The legislative acts of
1637, in regard to the qualifications of freemen and
the conditions on which any may become housekeepers,
and of 1638 in regard to the ringing of swine’s snouts
and divers other regulations, were early felt to be no
dead-letter, statutes even as affecting the newest, re-
motest, or sparsest settlements. The record of 1638
tells us, “ These men of Sandwich were fined for not
having their swine ringed: viz. Richard Bourne, 3 pigs;
John Carman, 1 sow and 11 pigs; Thos. Tupper, 5
swine; Thos. Armitage, 2 swine.” Again, at another
court, the same year, for the same neglect, “Edward
Freeman,1 Richard Kerby, Robert Bodfish, John Ding-
ley, Peter Gaunt, Richard Chadwell, and John Burge,”
were fined. There is no evidence that complaint was
made of any injury being done by the swine; or that
the informer was a resident of the town. In fact, the
list of the delinquents embraced a large proportion of
1 Edward: so say the records. But, although the name is repeated,and
Mr. Somerby says he found it on the Admiralty record in London, we are
inclined still to regard it as a chirographical error. We suppose that Ed-
mund Freeman was intended. Even Dr. Palfrey, in his recent History,
makes Edward Freeman the Assistant elected in 1640!ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
41
the most influential of the new-comers; and, situated
as they were at the time, just commencing their re-
spective operations in farming, it is altogether improb-
able that any inconvenience could be experienced by
any neighbor on account of another’s swine not being
ringed. The ringing would give no additional security
to gardens or grain-fields, if that were the object; and
there were no grasses under cultivation the sward of
which might be disturbed. These neighbors were gen-
erally widely scattered, from Scusset to Scorton. In a
word, it seems quite incredible that any one of the
actual settlers here was disposed to make trouble: but
yet there existed a law requiring the ringing of swine,
even young pigs; and somehow the authorities at the seat
of justice were informed in regard to all delinquencies,
and the delinquents were summoned to Plymouth and the
fines were assessed! The case of “ Henry Ewer and wife,”
before the same court, we have noted, VoL I. p. 150, as
also that of Mr. James Skeff as a transgressor in bring-
ing these worthy persons to Sandwich. Again, at the
same court, * Edward Freeman, Richard Kerby, George
Slawson, Peter Gaunt, John Dingley, and Mr. Stuteley,
all of Sandwich, were fined 10 s. each, for being deficient
in arms.” The very same court deemed it important to
have the limits of the lands granted in Sandwich ac-
curately defined, “with ad convenient speed;” and directed
Mr. Alden and Captain Standish to attend to the duty.
And now, the next year, 1639, was a time of great
trouble — complaint being made against Sandwich for
receiving persons as inhabitants, who were “ unfit for
church-society.”1 The “committies” were “summoned
1 If we would estimate the partiality to some and the rigorous exactions
upon others, or the moral “ fitness n of those who were thus brought in con-
flict with the civil authorities, we are constrained in candor to consider the
obliquities of the age. However much we venerate the leading puritans,
we cannot be blind to the fact that in their desire to keep out and to weed
yol. H.	642
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
to answer,” were “forbidden to dispose of any more
land,” and Captain Standish and Mr. Prince were ap-
pointed to repair to Sandwich clothed with full power
to order for the public good!
Butwe turn gladly from these proceedings, leaving the
astute to explain these matters. The same year, “George
Allen ” was “ admitted a freeman, and appointed and
sworn as constable of SandwichJohn Blakemore was
“appointed to exercise the inhabitants of Sandwich in
the use of arms;” John Didicut “presented himself
before the Court to take the oath of allegiance; ” and,
Nov. 28, “ Mr. William Paddy, merchant, of Plymouth,
and Alice Freeman of Sandwich, were married.” It
does not appear whether, in the latter case, it was
necessary to resort to the court for the legalizing of
the marriage contract; but we suppose it was.
Sandwich, having this year received its legal incorpo-
ration, was represented in the General Court1 There
was, as we have seen, no House of Bepresentatives in
the Colony of Plymouth until the present year. Com-
mittees the representatives were first denominated, after-
wards Deputies became the title. The two that were first
chosen by this town were KichaRd Bourne and John Vin-
cent.2 The whole number of towns in the Colony at
this period, was, including the newly incorporated, but
seven ; and the total number of deputies by whom they
were collectively to be represented, was 16.3
out every thing heterodox according to their views, suspicion was always on
the alert:
“ Do I not know you for a favorer
%	Of this new sect i Ye are not sound.”
1	Whether Sandwich would have attained so suddenly to the honor, had not
two other more recent settlements, whose principal men were from within the
bounds of the Colony, been applicants for incorporation, is questionable.
2	The notices of future election of deputies from time to time, will appear
in the tables at the close. The changes in the Board of Assistants, so far
as those magistrates were taken from this County, have already been noted
in oui annals of the Cape.
2 It has already, in effect, been seen in the former volume, that, after the
demise of Gov. Carver, Mr. Bradford being elected his successor, it wasANNALS OP SANDWICH.
43
After the incorporation of the town, the records for
several years exhibit little of interest beyond what has
already found a place in our general history of the
Cape. Abundant evidence is found of the never tiring
vigilance of the law and the impartiality of its admin-
istration. A case that was before the Plymouth Court,
March 1, 1642, furnishes proof to this effect: a military
personage, prominent in this town and perhaps not
thus early so distinguished for his religious character
as in after life — at best not now entirely above sus-
picion or exempt from the reach of legal discipline,
stood charged with too great a degree of gallantry.
We put the most favorable construction on the affair
though the “ complaint ” was a very serious one; for
there appears nothing in his previous or subsequent
career to deprive him of this leniency.1
judged expedient to appoint also an Assistant to the Gov. The reason
for this, in the first instance, was found in the fact that the Gov. elect was
just recovering from sickness and needed assistance; but the office was
continued for other reasons, so that, in 1624, five assistants were chosen,
and in 1633 two more were added. The number thenceforward chosen an-
nually was seven; and the Gov. and Assistants were the Supreme Judiciary
power — which arrangement continued until the time of Andros. Mr. Ed-
mund Freeman, of Sandwich, was elected by the Colony an Assistant soon
after the incorporation of the town, and by successive elections filled the
office seven consecutive years. The change which now took place in the
govt., substituting a representative govt, for an actual democracy, was an
important event. It was, as had been the appointment of assistants, an
affair of convenience alone; the extension of tne settlements rendering it
altogether inconvenient for the whole people to meet in one place as often
as exigencies might arise, to legislate; and hence, to distribute the power
in fair and equal proportions, it seemed necessary to delegate it — vesting
in the deputies of the several towns the power which belonged to all to
exercise in person as a legitimate right. The transition, therefore, occasioned
but little remark. Indeed the whole process of the organization of govern-
ment from the very first, appears to have been the result of convenience
rather than of any preconceived and well-digested design; and a directing
and .overruling Providence is clearly visible in every step of the progress
made. Professing to desire religious freedom, our fathers, notwithstanding
any peculiar obliquities or inconsistencies that to us of the present day may
seem to have marked their views or action, established on its broad base,
civil liberty. As Mr. Baylies has observed, “Meaning to found a church,
they gave birth to a nation; and in settling the towns, they commenced an
empire.”
1 We think it but fair to infer from various circumstances—especially
the charge being so general, that a degree of gallantry only incompatible44
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1643, the following persons, between the age of
16 and 60, were liable to bear arms: viz.
Francis Allen,
George Allen Jr.,
Matthew Allen,
Ralph Allen,
Samuel Allen,
John Bell,1
Edmund Berry,
Anthony Bessy,
Miles Black,
John Blakemore,
Thomas Boardman,
Robert Bodfish,
Richard Bourne,
George Buitt,
Richard Burgess,
Thomas Burgess Sr.,
Thomas Burgess Jr.,
Thomas Butler,
Richard Chadwell,
Edmund Clark,
Henry Cole,
Edward Dillingham,
Henry Dillingham,
John Dingley,
John Ellis,
Henry Feake,
John Fish,
Jonathan Fish,
Nathaniel Fish,
William Newland,
Thomas Nichols,
Benjamin Nye,
John Presbury,4
Henry Sanderson,
Henry Sephen,
Edmund Freeman Sr., Thos. Shillingsworth,
Edmund Freeman Jr., James Skiff,
John Freeman,2
Peter Gaunt,
Thomas Gibbs,
John Green,
Thomas Greenfield,
Joseph Holway,
Peter Hanbury,
John Johnson,8
Thomas Johnson,8
John Joyce,
Richard Kerby,
George Knott,
Thomas Landers,
William Swift,
Thomas Tupper,
Michael Turner, *
John Vincent,
Nathaniel Willis,
Lawrence Willis,
Joseph Winsor,
Daniel Wing,
John Wing,
Stephen Wing,
William Wood,
Anthony Wright,5
Nicholas Wright,5
Mr. William Leverich, Peter Wright.5
John Newland,
with the stem views of the pilgrims, was the maximum summum of the
offence; although the complaint preferred was u for lascivious and unclean
carriages towards the wife ” of a man in “Yarm., and sundry others in Barn-
stable and elsewhere.” The vocabulary of those days must be considered
in estimating the importance to be attached to such a charge which standing
prominently on the record would seem otherwise to require some heavier
sentence than “ admonition.”
1	Went to Yarm. ab. 1657, and d. prob. abt. 1676.
2	Mr. John Freeman removed early to Eastham, accompanying Gov. P.,
whose daughter he married. His possessions here were at Ploughed Neck
and Scorton Neck. See Vol. I. pp. 601, 618.
8 These both disappear from the records early; but their descendants are
prob. found on the Cape. Thomas by w. Priscilla, had Priscilla Nov. 20,
1657; and William June 9, 1659, who prob. removed to Falmouth.
4	Mr. John Presbury was buried May 9,1648; but no record is found
of his family.
5	The three Wrights were here in 1637. Peter had children b., viz.:
Peter Feb. 28,1651; and Adam Mar. 20,1652. Nicholas had Mercy b.
1651. There are records of burials of children 1648 and 1649, Mordecai
and Wm. In 1653 a deed by the Sachem of Oyster Bay, L. 1., to Peter
Wright, Mr. Leveridge and others, witnessed by Anthony Wright, shows
their final location.ANNALS OP SANDWICH.
45
However much to be regretted is the paucity of
material furnished by early records for memoirs of
towns, there is much to show that the people here did
not regard the institutions of religion as unimportant.
As already intimated, at an early period care was taken
to provide a place for public worship. That the build-
ing should in 1644 be called “ the old meeting-house,”
is presumptive that it had been for some time in exist-
ence ; and the inference also is that the question before
the people was whether to build a new meeting-house,
or repair the old one. The latter was their conclusion;
and it does not appear to have been a very expensive
job.1 We incline to the opinion that the first structure
was rudely temporary, hitherto without shingles, with
shutters for windows, and with thatched roof; such was
the early practice elsewhere.
Geo. Allen was this year “licensed by the court to cut hay at
the Ponds beyond Sandwich-Plains.” The necessity for a ‘ license’
thus obtained, is perhaps explained by the prohibition that had
been laid upon the committee or undertakers; since we find that
the following year, 1645, an effort was made to procure the
removal of the disability; and^in 1646 provision was made for
“ yielding-up the land undisposed of, to the town, to be given
forth and disposed of” on certain stipulated conditions.2
In 1647, Mr. Leverich was in court in consequence of some mis-
understanding with a parishioner; but in no way involving the
pastor’s integrity so far as we can judge. — An old settler and
1	The record is: “A town-meeting, 6 mo. 7,1644, warned by order of the
selectmen to take course for repairing the meeting-house; whereupon divers
persons engaged freely to pay in good and merchantable Indian com, the
next April, unto Thos. Tupper, for as many bolts as would shingle the old
meeting-house. The persons that engaged the com to Thos. Tupper of
Sandwich, for and in consideration that the said Thos. Tupper engage the
bolts aforesaid for repairing the said house; the persons that engaged the
com are as followeth: —
Edmund Freeman, 10 s. j Thos. Dexter, 10; Thos. Gibbs Sr., 9; Ezra
Perry, 9; Jacob Burge, 9 ; Thos. Tobie Sr., 7 ; and William Bassett, 6.”
2	The rigid surveillance that was exercised over the disposal of lands by
those whose right vested in them as undertakers, was not confined to this
town. Great care was taken by the court that in every place those only
who were “Jit-persons” within the dose construction of that qualifying
phrase, should be landholders.46
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
his wife, who were afterwards conspicuous among the seceders
from the 4 old ways of the puritans,5 were also arraigned 44 for hav-
ing been carnal before matrimony.551 — The next year, another
citizen was summoned before the court, and forbidden to show
attentions to a certain female “ until the court can better discern
the truth of his pretensions.55 2—The miller also shared—what
has been the fate, perhaps often without cause, of many who
grind for toll —44 a suspicion ;55 but, we are happy to say, 44 he
was cleared— This same year, 1648, records the decease of
prominent citizens, Mr. George Allen Sr.,8 and George Knott.4
1	The application of the criminal law to some cases then alleged to be
flagrant immoralities too intolerable to be passed by without reprehension,
would itself hardly pass without reprehension at the present day. The
mortification and disgrace inflicted by the above complaint—the charge
founded alone on evidence furnished long after marriage by a birth occur-
ring “ before the ordinary time of women after marriage ” — would hardly
be tolerated even did the law sanction the proceeding and the severity of
the penalty.
2	There is some ambiguity here, but investigation shows that the young
man “ was prohibited by tne court from visits or addresses ” to the fair
damsel, “ until some matters are cleared up in regard to the contract:99 the
incident is another confirmation of “ our William’s ” remark,—
“ The course of true love never did run smooth.”
The cause, in the present case, we are unable to pronounce j perhaps it was
“ * different in blood; ’
Or else ‘ misgraffed in respect of years ; *
Or else * it stood upon the choice of friends.’ ”
This much we know: her father, in his dying moments, had supposed that
the two were betrothed, and had mad# provision for their mutual comfort,
in his will; and yet she soon married another.
3	Mr. Allen was in Lynn 1636, and came to Sandwich 1637. He was
a deputy 1641 and ’42. The record says he was buried in S., May 2,
1648. His will mentions “ sons Matthew, Henry, Samuel, William, and also
five least children.” It makes his wife Catharine executrix. He must have
been aged, as various accounts intimate. If we are to regard the specula-
tions extant, it is difficult at this remote period to account for the omission
of the names of some generally regarded as his sons, and especially of some
who were older than those named. He is represented by Bowden as having
been an “ anabaptist in England.” Be this as it may, he was a member of
the church in Sandwich, and Rev. Mr. Fessenden reports both George and
Half Allen as having been previously members of the church in Roxbury.
There was a George Jr. in S. liable to bear arms in 1643, and also a Francis
and Half, as well as Matthew. George Jr. was m. before the decease of
George Sr., as was also Ralf, and almost contemporaneously appears a
Ralf Sr. and Ralf Jr. We suspect that genealogists have confounded two
families. Records are the only sure guide.
4	Mr. Knott, one of the original grantees, was buried May 3, 1648.
His will, nuncupative, bearing date May 1, mentions “my wife Martha,
also my son Samuel and my dr. Martha; ” and also indicates some provis-
ion for “ Thos Dunham in case he marries my daughter.” The name is not
perpetuated in this town. The wid. of Mr. K. d. 1673. His son, Samuel,
was in the Indian war, and the records of Gorham, Me., 1733, show thatANNALS OF SANDWICH.
47
We have had occasion to infer that the ancient house
for public worship in this town was not a very costly
edifice; by an inkling obtained from the records of
1650, it may be surmised that the minister had no
very sumptuous accommodations. As is the cathedral
so is usually the primate’s residence. It was “ agreed
upon by the town that there shall be a levie of £5 for
Mr. Leveridge, to pay for removing and parting of his
house with boards, which was long since promised to
be done for him by the town.” If he had hitherto
submitted to occupy the shell of a house without
apartments, we can but admire his patience in waiting
the fulfilment of the contract. The board partitions
“ long-promised,” must, if erected— and we have reason
to suppose they were in due time, for the work was com-
mitted to four good men and true, viz.: “ Mr. Vincent,
William Newland, Thomas Tupper, and Robert Bodfish”
— have been convenient both to himself and family.1
A levy of £10 was also ordered “ for defraying the
town-charges;” and it was “agreed to pay Mr. Richard
Bourne £1 and his levie (so much as he is rated in the
£10 levie) in consideration of his labor and pains that
he hath taken in business concerning the town, as in
selling the lands to satisfy the committies and the like.’’
The public expenses do not appear to have been very onerous,
if we except the matter of fines for petty delinquencies and costs
of court; and the pecuniary resources of the town were probably
not abundant.
In 1651, “the conditions on which the grant of the
township was made having been fulfilled, a deed of the
“ Samuel Tobey is put down for his uncle Samuel Knott, deceased.” The
daughter m. Thos. Tobey, Nov. 18, 1650.
1 All contemporaneous records and correspondence show that there was
thus early, in both colonies, “ a lamentable remissness ” in the honorable
support of religious institutions. There is no positive evidence, at least
none direct, that the people here were particularly reprehensible in^ this
respect; probably they were not, bating what is attributable to unintentional
neglect.48	HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
plantation was executed by Gov. Bradford to Mr. Edmund
Freeman who made conveyances to his associates.”1
The same year, May 22, it was “ordered that these four men,
Goodman Tupper, Goodman Burge Sr, NathL Willis, and Wm.
Gifford shall have power to call a town-meeting by giving three
days’ warning, whenever they see occasion for the same;” and the
following very notable restriction was duly “ voted, that what
neighbors stay away above an hour after the time appointed shall
lose their votes in what is done before they come.” It was “ also
ordered that the constable give in his account for the current year,
or else shall stand another year as constable.”
This year was not the end of “the beginning of
ecclesiastical troubles,” as all New England history
tells; but it is worthy of note here, that even this
date was several years prior to the itinerant influence
of any of “ the people called Quakers.” The “ religious
distractions [which] now began to exist all over the
colony,” cannot, then, be attributed, as is the manner
of some, to the Friends. These troubles already exist-
ing prepared the way, no doubt, for the introduction of
new views — such as might plausibly be presented to
the disaffected towards the policy of the government;
but the dissensions themselves are attributable to causes
which must be looked for in the doings of former years.2
The record made by a distinguished antiquarian, that
1 The bounds are the same described in the subsequent deed confirmato-
ry in 1685, as* originally established by Capt. Miles Standish and Mr. John
Alden.
9 The movement in favor of religious toleration, a few years previous,
had, although unhappily opposed by government, stout advocates — and,
if we may judge from the now existing state of things, there were conscien-
tious ana unyielding friends of religious freedom, in this town. The orders
of court to compel attendance on the only tolerated public worship; the
presentments of many, and the fines and penalties imposed; the charges
now becoming frequent, against divers persons here and there, of “ speak-
ing deridingly against God’s word and ordinances” — charges that were
grounded on the least expression of dissent from prevailing dogmas and
polities j and the complaints of the “disturbance of public worship” — com-
plaints that were equally founded on constructive grounds, were but the
symptoms of a conscientious, determined, and serious contest, the cause of
which may be expressed in brief, but the history of which would require
volumes.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
49
it is “not known why Mr. Edmund Freeman,” after
seven years’ service as an assistant, “ was dropped,” is
at least suggestive. We think the reason is patent.
Our surprise the rather is that his election was not at
the first opposed by the government, notwithstanding
the position he held in society. His views were too
liberal for the age. The right of private judgment,1
and the right of petition, were principles not to be
maintained with impunity even by puritans who hap-
pened to be in advance of the exclusiveness of the
times. — Mr. Kobert Bodfish died this year, Nov. 19.
In 1652, Jan. 17, a further order was passed regulating “ the
manner of calling town-meetings; ”—and Mar. 12, it was “ agreed
that the Town-Neck shall still be used for pasturage as formerly
from May 1 to Oct. 4, and that no cattle except calves shall be
put in without the consent of the town— an “agreement was
1 That the settlers here and in the adjacent towns were generally homo-
geneous is evident; but that there should from the first settlement of the
colony have been, notwithstanding every precaution, the accession or infu-
sion of some whose views were not fully in sympathy with those of the
rigid puritan, is not strange; nor that others should feel that there was just
cause for complaint and express dissatisfaction at what they considered the
exclusiveness and arbitrariness of the ruling powers. Hence, the occasional,
but always cherished, avowed desire for the initiation of a better order of
things. Mr. Morrell, when he saw the existing feeling, as early as 1624,
meekly forbore to assert his rights, or even to make known the position
that had been assigned him. Episcopalians were, from the first, suspected
and feared. The Anabaptists, it was alleged significantly by one whose
“ sagacity ” excited his fears, were “ an engine formed to cut the throat of
the infantry of the churches.” As time advanced, intolerance became less
and less tolerable. The movements of Mr. Vassel of Scituate, and of Mr.
Maverick and Dr. Child in the Mass. Colony, were but the symptoms and
evidence of progress that was being made. They complained that persons,
though “ sober, righteous, and godly,” and even those “ eminent for knowl-
edge, not scandalous in life or conversation, and members of the Church of
England,” were “debarred from Christian privileges,” and “denied civil
privileges.” They alleged that “ the fundamental laws of England were not
owned by the colony as the basis of government according to the Patent.”
And they “ prayed that civil liberty and religious freedom might forthwith
be granted; or, that if these civil and religious liberties were refused, they
might be freed from the heavy taxes imposed.” If their prayer should be
granted, they expressed the hope of seeing “ the ordinances of God highly
prized, the gospel break forth as the sun, Christian charity wax warm,
jealousy banished, strife and contention abated,” &c. &c. The petition
gave great offence. The petitioners were called to account. Still, they
stoutly asserted their right of petitioning: but in vain! — The sequel is
by and by.
vol. n.
750
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
made with Daniel Wing and Michael Blackwell for the taking of
the fish in Herring-river; ” — and it was tt ordered that Edmund
Freeman, Edward Perry, Geo. Allen, Daniel Wing, John Ellis,
and Thos. Tobey, these six men, shall take care of all the fish that
Indians shall cut up within the limits of the town, so as to provide
safety for it, and shall dispose of the fish for the town’s use;1 also
that if any man that is an inhabitant shall find a whale and report
it to any of these six men, he shall have a double share; and that
these six men shall take care to provide laborers and whatever is
needful, so that whatever whales either Indian or white man gives
notice of, they may dispose of the proceeds to the town’s use, to
be divided equally to every inhabitant.”
The court subsequently appointed “ agents to receive the oil for
the country.”2—The court having ordered a way to be laid out
from Sandwich to Plymouth, appointed Messrs. Anthony Thach-
er, Thomas Dexter, Thos. Hinckley, Win, Hedge, Edward Bangs,
Joseph Rogers, John Wing, John Ellis, Henry Dillingham, James
Skeff, John Finny, Jonathan Hatch, and Wm. Bassett, to attend
to the duty. — The court also directed the constable of Sandwich
to “ call on Lt. Wm. Newland to train the military company; and,
if he refuse, to appoint the Sergeant, Peter Wright, to do it.”3
The town tt ordered that every inhabitant shall bear his part
concerning the trial of the action about Eel-river bridge; and
that Thos. Dexter Sr. be authorized to answer in court for the
town.” — Also “ that Goody Bodfish shall have four bu. of wheat
due the town from Geo. Allen.”4
In 1653, the town provided “ for the purchase of muskets, cut-
lasses, powder, balls, drum,” &q.;—also “that no man shall cut
timber on the commons’ lots to sell out of town, under a penalty
of 5 s. for every tree cut; ” — further, “ that Mr. Dillingham, Thos.
Tupper, Mr. Yincent, and Richard Bourne shall forthwith make a
rate of £34 to be paid in butter or current money;” — also “ that
the pay of all whales shall belong to every householder and to
1	All the larger fish yielding oil are meant. So numerous were whales
in the bay, and such was the activity of the whalemen, that instances were
frequent of whales, escaping wounded from their pursuers and dying sub-
sequently, being washed to the shores. Besides these, the grampus and
other large fish were often stranded on the flats by the action of the
tides.
2	This, taken in connection with the town’s doings, indicates a diversity
of views in regard to the rightful claimants of the oil obtained from drift
whales ; the colony demanding it as belonging to the crown.
3	Variances between England and Holland now gave cause for alarm.
4	She was now a widow, and probably in necessitous circumstances.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
51
every young man that is his own, equally.”1 The deputy, Mr. Wm.
Newland, was fined for not attending the Gen. Court; and Mr.
Wm. Bassett Sr., for not attending to an order from the Council
of War.—John Ellis received appointment as Lt. of the military.
An order was passed requiring all swine going at large, to be
“ringed and yoked;” also “for the impounding of cattle.” — It
was also “ agreed that Mr. Leverich only shall have leave to put
his horse in the Town-Neck.”
How soon after this Mr. Leverich left Sandwich does
not appear further than that in 1654, he in company
with several of his parishioners became a purchaser
and settler at Oyster Bay, L. I., and was there voted
£15 salary by the settlers, as their minister.2 There,
1 The contest for the right of whales seems to have been carried on with
vigor. It was further ordered, Sept. 13, “ that Richard Chadwell, Thos.
Dexter, and John Ellis, these three men, shall have all the whales that come
up within the limits and bounds of Sandwich, they paying to the town for
the sd. fish £16 a whale.” It was also “ provided that if any of these three
men have notice given them by any person who has seen a whale ashore or
aground and has placed an oar by the whale, his oath may, if required, be
taken for the truth and certainty of the thing, and the sd. three persons
shall be held liable to pay for the sd. whale although they neglect to go
with him that brings them word. And if they do not go with him, then
sd. person shall hold the sd. whale, and by giving notice to any third man
shall have paid him for his care herein £1. And in case there come ashore
any part of a whale, these four men, Mr. Dillingham, Mr. Edmund Free-
man, Edward Perry, and Michael Blackwell, are to be the judges of the
whale before it shall be cut off from, to determine the quantity less a whole
whale; and then, without allowing further word, those three men, viz.: Rd.
Chadwell, Thos. Dexter, and John Ellis, shall make payment for sd. whale,
i in oil, i in corn, and j in cattle, all marketable, at current prices,” &c.&c.
* In the Hist, of L. I., it is said, “ Very many went from Sandwich to
L. I. in 1653-4.” The Hist, of Newtown, L. I., says, “ In 1652 a company
from New Eng. obtained leave from director Stuyvesant, to plant a town
within his jurisdiction. Among these persons was Lt. Palmer, who had
represented Yarmouth in the Gen. Court of Plym. Colony in 1644 and as
late as 1651; Mr. Henry Feare who was early at Lynn and had leave to
build and plant at Nahant 1635, but removed to Sandwich in 1637 ; and
Jonathan Fish his associate who also came to Mespat, i. e. Newtown.”
We may add, there is no doubt that Mr. Fish removed thus early to Oyster
Bay, and that he finally became a resident at Mespat. His habitancy in
the latter place in 1659 was fixed. He was there a magistrate and a person
of character and property. He had sons, John, Samuel, and Nathan; and
d. in 1663, leaving a widow Mary and sons. These were all patentees of
Newtown in 1686. John finally went to New Jersey, and from thence his
descendants scattered abroad. Samuel d. in 1700, without issue. Nathan
remained at Newtown, and had 14 children. — Mr. Feake was one of the
ten men who projected the settlement of Sandwich, and was deputy of this
town, 1643—4. He had a bro. Robert who was in Watertown in 1630, in
Flushing, L. I., in 1650, and whose son Robert was a preacher of some
celebrity among the Friends.52
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
and at Huntington and Newtown, he doubtless spent
the rest of his life,1 if we except the portion which is,
without very good authority, said to have been occu-
pied in the duties of a missionary among the Indians.2
In 1654, Jan. 26, “the town gave full power to Mr. Edward
Dillingham and Richard Bourne, to agree in the town’s behalf
with Thos. Dexter to go on and build the mill.”3 — The town
also gave “ to the widow Bodfish liberty to put into the Town-
Neck, three of her cattle, besides calves.” — A committee, consist-
ing of “ Mr. Dillingham, Goodman Tupper, Goodman Bourne, Wm.
1	The date of the decease of Mr. Leverich is involved in some obscurity
by the errors of writers whose investigations were evidently made with very
little care. One account says, “ He d. in 1692,” and that “ he was pastor
in Sandwich 1638, and in 1647 was a missionary” But the fact that his
estate was adm. on June 19, 1677, is conclusive on this point. He left sons
Caleb and Eleazar. The Annals of Long Island say, “ He was charged with
having introduced, whilst in Sandwich, some novelties in celebrating the
Eucharist.” Mr. L. having been in the ministry of the Church of England,
it is probable that the “ novelties ” spoken of, were but the formularies of
the Episcopal Church in administering the holy communion. The Rev. Mr.
Fessenden says, in a letter addressed soon after his ordination, to Rev. Thos.
Prince, that Mr. L. was involved in trouble in Sandwich “ by the utterance
of views of infant baptism disapproved of by some portion of his hearers.”
2	We find conflicting reports touching the scenes of his ministerial labors.
One says, “ He was a missionary to the Indians, and much engaged in
instructing them in 1647; ” another says, “ 1657,” and that “ he was employed
in this service by the commissioners of the United Colonies.” Mr. Baynes,
usually accurate, says, “ In 1674, Mr. Leverich resided in Nantucket, prob-
ably a missionary — Nantucket being then within the jurisdiction of the
Province of N. York.” But the L. Island Annals are doubtless reliable.
That Mr. Leverich went to L. Island from Sandwich is corroborated by the
fact we have mentioned Yol. I. p. 209, that in 1653-4, a vessel belonging
to Sami. Mayo of Barnstable, employed in conveying the goods of Mr. L. to
Oyster Bay, was seized at Hampstead Harbor by the authorities of Rhode
Island; an interference requiring the interposition of the Plymouth Colony.
The Probate records show that he died there in 1677. Other concurrent
testimony induces the belief that L. I. was the scene of his labors after leav-
ing Sandwich.
3	There must have been a mill for the breaking or grinding of corn in this
town previous to 1648, as we have seen. — The first “ water-mill for the
beating out of corn ” set up in Plym. in 1632, and soon after superseded by
“ a grinding-mill,” was the only convenience the early settlers here had, for
a long time, for turning their grain to meal, except as afforded by the slow
and laborious process employed by the Indians — the mortar and pestle.
Tradition still points out the course of the old Indian path-way by which
the inhabitants of Sandwich at first conveyed their grists, on their backs
often, sometimes on the back of a horse, bull, or cow, to Plym. It is not
strange that great concern should be felt to secure so great a boon as a mill
near at hand; and yet of the precise time when the first was erected in
Sandwich, we have no means of ascertaining; nor do we understand the
immediate necessity now for another mill unless the old one had failed to
answer its end. Great difficulties seem to have attended the fulfilment of
the design in the present instance.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
53
Newland, and Thos. Dexter, was app., May 13, to frame a petition
to the worshipful Court at Plymouth, for a grant to purchase, and
assistance in purchasing Manomet
The arrangement with Dexter for building a mill having failed,
“John Ellis, Wm. Swift, Wm. Allen, and James Skef£ were engaged
to build the mill, the town paying £20,” which sum was at once
voluntarily subscribed by the following persons, viz.:
Edmund Freeman,	Danl. Wing,	Benj. Nye,
Ralph Allen Jr.,	Geo. Allen,	Thos. Tobey,
Hy. Dillingham,	Mich. Blackwell,	Rt.	Harper,
Hy. Saunders,	Thos. Gibbs,
John Burgiss,1	John Fish,	<
Matthew Allen,	Frs. Allen,
Anthony Bessy,	Jos. Winsor,
Thos. Ewer,
Rd. Smith,
Peter Gaunt,
Thos. Butler, and
Wm. Bassett.
Every town being required by law to procure a book
for recording divisions and purchases of lands, these
lands to be duly bounded to prevent disputes, the town
complied, and such record was begun.
The state of travel at this period, may be appre-
hended from the fact that the road ordered by the Gen-
eral Court, to be laid out from Plymouth to Sandwich,
and for which service commissioners had been appointed,
was not yet constructed. Both "Plymouth and Sand-
wich were presented for not having the country high-
way between these places cleared so as to be passable
for man and horse”2
Early in 1655, the mill would seem to have been completed, for
the following entry appears May 18: “ The town hath agreed with
1	The name of John Burge, who was s. of Thomas 1st, is, after 1657,
found in Yarmouth. See annals of that town.
2	The first evidence of an " Express ” in this direction, if we except the
occasional services of the swift-footed Indians previous to any settlement on
the Cape, is a record this year of “ money paid to John Smith, by the Gov-
ernment at Plym., for conveying letters to Nawsett."
We may not detail every incident of early days, especially those least
important; but inasmuch as Robt. Ransom, the servant of Thos. Dexter Jr.,
without doubt aspired to immortality in common with others, and as the
only chance we have to accord to his aspirations is the present, it may be
mentioned that his complaint was before the court, of “ill-treatment;"but
the servant “ was reproved by the court," as was “ also Nathaniel Fish for
enticing him and thus encouraging his stubbornness."54
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Matthew Allen to grind and have the toll for his pains.” But yet
again, May 29, another mill was contemplated: “Thos. Dexter
engaged to build a mill, and the town engaged to allow him 5 pts.
per bush, toll; he to build and maintain the mill and dam, and
all other things thereto belonging; and to provide a miller at his
own cost” — The town appointed “Mr. Dillingham and Thos.
Dexter to make a rate of so much as will bring the town out of
debt ” The rate was made and “ committed to Thos. Wing, con-
stable.”— The following record also appears: “The train-band
hath jointly agreed, as well masters for their servants and fathers
for their sons, to give, each, a peck of wheat,1 or two lbs. of butter, to
send one whom the Lt. shall appoint,” for military equipments, &c.
A new meeting-house was now thought to be absolutely neces-
sary, as appears by the following record: “ These several persons
have fully and freely engaged themselves to the building of a
place for public meetings, to give,
Wm. Newland,	£2. 0.	Wm. Allen,	£0.10.
Mich. Blackwell,	1. 0.	Lt. Ellis,	.15.
Thos. Gibbs,	1. 0.	John Jenkins,	. 1.
James Skiffe,	1. 0.	Thos. Butler,	. 5.
Wm. Bassett,	.10.	Edm. Freeman Jr	, .10.
Thos. Dexter,	1. 0.	John Smith,	.10.
Ralph Allen Sr.,	.10.	Thos. Johnson,	. 5.
Ralph Allen Jr.,	.10.	Thos. Tobey,	. 5.
Thos. Borgis Sr.,	.10.	Tho. Brookfield,	. 8.
Anthony Bessie,	.10.	Mr. Dillingham,	. 5.
Richd. Burge Jr.,	. 5.	Ezra Perry,	. 5.
Thos. Burgess Jr.,	1. 0.	Rt. Harper,	. 5.
Matt. Allen,	. 5.	Mr. Vincent,	.10.
Hy. Dillingham,	.10.	John Burges,	.10.
Benj. Nie,	. 5.	Mr. Freeman,	I/O.
Geo. Allin,	. 5.	Geo. Bliss,	. 1.
Frs. Allen,	. 5.	Wid. Knott and \	
Hy. Sanderson,	. 5.	2 drs. of Thos. V	. 5.’
Wm. Swift,	.15.	Tobey, )	
Rd. Kerby Jr.,	. 5.		
The following is among the entries of 1655-6, but
1 The growing of wheat in this town has, excepting occasional experi-
ments, been long discontinued; but the late Wm. Fessenden Esq. once
informed the writer that his parents had told him they had seen large crops
of wheat covering the hills in Sandwich, since denominated ‘ the territories/
and now considered as fit only for pasturage.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
55
without date,1 and without superscription indicating
to whom it was addressed; it may have been an invi-
tation extended to some clergyman engaged as a
temporary supply intervening the ministrations of Mr.
Leverich and Mr. Smith:2 3 * * *
uLoving Brother:
“It is the earnest desire of our families with ourselves, all
whose names are underwritten, that you may be encouraged by a
clear call to continue and employ that spiritual gift and talent
which God of his goodness and grace hath bestowed upon you;
hoping that if it please the Lord to move your heart to answer
us in our desire, we will not be backward to recompense your
labors of love this year.
“ Thomas Tupper, Edw. Dillingham,
John Vincent,	Anthony Bessie,
James Skiff,	Hy. Dillingham,
Rd. Chadwell,	Daniel Wing,
Edm. Freeman,	Nathl. Fish,
Thos. Gibbs,	Thos. Dexter,
Thos. Johnson,
Thos. Tobey,
Wm. Swift,
Jona. Willis,8
Mich. Blackwell,
Joseph Winsor,
Johana Swift.”
1	The two oldest Books of Record that are in possession of the town,
were commenced well enough, and so continued for some time; but a habit
at last prevailed on the part of succeeding clerks of deferring very little to
the order of entries — these being made often as if the only care was to find
somewhere a blank spot for the purpose. It is, therefore, difficult in some
instances to determine to what period of time a particular entry belongs.
The subsequent books are better arranged, though in some parts not with-
out defects. The 3d voL is a fine specimen of ancient chirography.
2	According to traditions, or recollections of traditions, gathered by Rev.
Mr. Fessenden soon after he removed to Sandwich, there was a long inter-
val between the pastorates of Messrs. Leverich and Smith; and some por-
tion of the time occasional preachers were had. He says, “ first Mr. Icha-
bod Wiswall who removed nence to Sagadahoc and then went to sea, and
after his return settled and died in Duxbury; and then Mr. Thos. Dally
who removed to Yarmouth to one Mrs. Howes who administered to him in
a consumption, but he died thereof.”—The precise interval is involved in
much uncertainty. Mr. Fessenden’s traditions place the “ call and ordina-
tion” of Mr. Smith as late as 1675. He says the church was long “ rent
with sore divisions —the one part blaming tne other whose dissatisfactions
drove Mr. L. away,” and the others “ falling into the errors of Quakerism,”
some of whom had before “ become very much tainted with Antinomian and
Familistical errors under the ministry of Stephen Batchelor the first min-
ister of Lynn.”
3	The Willis family became finally extinct in town by removals. Mr.
Thomas Willis who was a deputy of Lynn 1634, was in this town in 1637.
Nathaniel was here early and had Elnathan May 20, 1639, Judith June
14,1641; Bethia Sept. 14,1643; and Mary Ap. 14,1648. In 1656 he was56
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
It is difficult to account for the absence of several
prominent names to the above call—especially the
names of Mr. Richard Bourne and Mr. Thomas Burge,
who were church-members. Tradition, as reported by
Mr. Fessenden at the time of his settlement some four-
score years after, says, “A most unhappy dissension
occurred in the church about the time that Mr. Leverich
left.” Mr. L. he represents as leaving behind him the
character “for great piety and meekness,” and as
“ seeking a quiet recess at Long Island ” in consequence
of the “jealousy and uneasiness” that certain persons
“ had conceived towards him, they being implacable.”1
All this is very probable; for all history unites in de-
claring that the spirit of insubordination had already
become generally rife in the whole Colony, as in that
of the Massachusetts; and that the resort to severe
enactments and various devices was altogether insuffi-
cient to quell it is evident on every side. The people
every where had not only become clamorous for the
largest religious freedom, but the chafed spirits of the
proscribed forbade the hope of a speedy return to a
degree of quiet and decorum essential to good neigh-
borhood. It were strange if the excitement of the
times had not reached this town. A diversity of views
had resulted even among such as before were harmo-
niously united in the laudable desire to sustain regular
ministrations as well as to have the just and equal rights
of all recognized and maintained. Evidence is found
of the existence of such a state of things here, in
in Bridgewater. Laurence was here early, but removed to Bridgewater in
1656. Jonathan also removed at the same time. The three last were
brothers of Dea. John of Duxburjr who was one of the proprietors of
Bridgewater. From these were derived those of the name at Acushnet and
Rochester.
1 Mr. Fessenden’s traditions are that Wm. Newland, Peter Gaunt, Rich-
ard Kerby, John Newland, Ralph Allen, and Geo. Allen, were the “ impla-
cable ” opponents of Mr. L.ANNALS OP SANDWICH.
57
numerous instances that must now for a time checker
our narrative of public transactions.
Peter Gaunt of Sandwich, being called upon by the court at
Plymouth “ to answer for not frequenting the public worship of
God, affirmed that he knew no public visible worship; ” and
“ Ralph Allen ” took similar ground;1 whilst “ Geo. Allen,” who
was arraigned for the same offence, “ dissented ” from the views
of the preceding, but had other excuses; and “ Sarah, daughter
of Rd. Kerby,” arraigned “ for divers suspicious speeches uttered
against Mr. Rd. Bourne and Mr. Edm. Freeman, was reprimanded
and sentenced to be publicly whipped if the offence was repeated.”2
In 1656, July 29, “ Mr. Edmund Freeman, Thos. Borgis, Rd.
Chadwell, Mr. Dillingham, Mr. Vincent, and others were appoint-
ed, according to court order, to do, as the court hath ordered, for
the town in determining the bounds of the lands — that the same
may appear on record.” — It was also “ agreed that the 26 acres
that Barnstable hath upon Scauton-Neck, shall be purchased.”3
This year is marked by the first arrival in America
of any of “ the people called Quakers.” 4
1 Let it be remarked here that hitherto there had been no arrival from
abroad of any of “ the people called Quakers.” Whether the position taken
by these two men was inconsequence of knowledge of the views of that order
or people then making progress in England and also in Barbadoes, we have
no means of determining. The probability, however, is that such was the fact.
Reports of the proceedings of the Friends in England had reached this
country, and probably some of their writings; and their movements abroad
were a general topic of conversation among the magistrates and clergy.
* The presumption is that these men aspersed, were disposed to a con-
servative course—such as is well-known were their character and influence;
and, therefore, incurred the displeasure of the less moderate with whose
general views of the impolity of intolerance perhaps their own were in
unison; for Mr. Fessenden more than intimates Mr. Freeman’s disap-
probation of ecclesiastical censures and legislative coercion. He gives us
to understand that Mr. F. was even suspected of sympathizing with the
Quakers, and “ afterwards left them upon a detection of some falsehood and
villany among them, but never returned to special communion with the
church.” The reason alleged by tradition for his finally standing aloof from
the Friends is rather severe, and something, we trust, is here to be par-
doned to the excitement of the hour; but the latter charge is probably
incorrect, inasmuch as it will be seen that he was still a contributor to the
support of the ministry. Sarah Kerby, as will appear from*various trans-
actions, had a flippant tongue and made herself quite conspicuous by her
zeal on many occasions.
8 The right of domain, on this part of the Neck, was the occasion of much
trouble.
4 According to ‘ Bowden’s History of the Society of Friends in America,
2 vols., Lond. 1850 and 1854,’ this denomination “date their rise in 1644 in
VOL. H.	858
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1657, the visit of Nicholas Upsall to this place,
was the occasion of much commotion. We have already
referred to this matter in our first volume.1
“ Complaint was now made that sd. Nicholas, Rd. Kerby,2 the
wife of John Newland, and others, frequently meet at the house
of Wm. Allen for worship.” — “ Complaint was also made to
court, against Jane Saunders and Sarah Kerby for disturbance of
public worship.”
Although these complaints were sought from abroad,
many of the inhabitants became involved in these
troubles.
By the following entry upon the town records, it ap-
pears that some effort was still made to sustain the
ordinary institutions of religion: —
Leicestershire, Eng.; in Warwickshire, 1645; Nottinghamshire, 1646;
Derbyshire, 1647; in adjacent counties, 1648-50; and Yorkshire, 1651.
The year 1652 was marked by a very considerable enlargement of the soci-
ety. And in 1655, the minds of some were drawn to visit the western
world, and they proceeded to Barbadoes; and, in the Spring of 1656, to
New England.” George Fox says, “ In 1656, truth broke forth in Ameri-
ca.” Those who first came to the continent, were Mary Fisher and Anne
Austin from Barbadoes. The next arrival was by a vessel from London;
Christopher Holder, John Copeland, and six others, 6 mo. 7th, the same
year. They had “ been brought here,” they said, “ in the will of God, hav-
ing been made sensible of the cries and groans of His seed which was cry-
ing unto Him for help and deliverance under cruel bondage.” In the same
vessel with these last, came Rd. Smith of Long Island, who having gone to
England on business, and now returning to Oyster Bay, had whilst in Eng-
land been “ convinced.” This Rd. Smith, who “ was some time in Taun-
ton,” had purchased of the Sachems a tract in the Narraganset country, and
in 1643 had a trading-house where Warwick now stands; but, the Narra-
ganset war breaking out, had retired to Long Island. He originated, says
Roger Williams, “ from a very respectable family in Gloucestershire.” On
returning from Eng., he was not only the compagnondu voyage of the above
Friends, but “ professed with them.”
1 Bowden’s Hist, says, “ The first offence of this man was his having
expressed his disapprobation of the law of Mass, against the Quakers.”
He continues, “ This cruel law had been ostentatiously announced to the
citizens of Boston, by beat of drum, and deeply affected the mind of this
man, and he felt constrained to raise his voice m public disapprobation of
the act.” But he further says that “ Upsall had supplied the Quakers
imprisoned in Boston jail with refreshments, and had become a convert”
Bowden further adds, " The hospitality of the kind-hearted people of Sand-
wich, displeased the Governor. Upsall’s resolution not to leave Sandwich,
it is supposed, received encouragement from the townsmen by whom the
constabulary was restrained from enforcing the warrant.”
8 Mr. Rd. Kerby took the oath of fidelity at Dartm. in 1684; the pre-
sumption, therefore, is that the family finally went in that direction.ANNALS OP SANDWICH.
59
“We whose names are hereunder written, do hereby engage
ourselves to pay towards the minister’s support, yearly, the sev-
eral sums as followeth — except as God by His Providence shall
disenable us, or any of us remove out of Sandwich. July IT, 1657.
Thos. Borgis Sr.,	£2.	Geo. Buit,	£0.15.
James Skiff Sr.,	1.10.	Thos. Borgis Jr.,	.15.
Rd. Chadwell,	1.10.	Thos. Tobey,	1.
Lt. Ellis,	1.	Thos. Gibbs,	1.
Edm. Freeman,	1.	John Borgis,	.15.
Ezra Perry,	.15.	Rd. Smith,	. 6.
Benj. Nie,	.15.	Wm. Bassett,	1.”
Who was the minister of the town at this time, it is
impossible to decide. We have supposed that Mr.
Smith commenced his labors here about this time; but
the fact is doubtless otherwise, as will appear.
The account of Lt, Ellis for drum, muskets &c. purchased was
rendered, £10.6.7; and William Bassett, constable, rendered
account of £26.13.9 rate including the disbursement of £9.15 for
“ Indian-land purchase and £2.4.8 for wolf-traps.”
In 1658, a record was made of lands bounded by Mr. Edmund
Freeman Sr., Mr. John Vincent, Mr. Edw. Dillingham, Rd. Bourne,
Rd. Chadwell, Thos. Burge, and Wm. Newland, appointed “to
lay out and order the true bounds of every inhabitant’s lands, so
that the lands may be brought to record according to the order
of the court.” The owners were:
Frs. Allen,	Danl. Butler,	Thos. Greenfield,
Geo. Allen,	Thos. Butler,	Rt. Harper,
Jedediah Allen,	Rd. Chadwell,	Joseph Holway,
Ralph Allen,	Thos. Dexter Sr.,	Edw. Hoxy,
Wm. Allen,	Hy. Dillingham,	Lodo. Hoxie,
Wm. Bassett,	John Ellis Sr.,	John Jenkins,
Neh. Bessie,	John Ellis Jr.,	Thos. Johnson,
Mich. Blackwell,	Nat hi. Fish,	Wido. Knott,
John Bodfish,	Wido. Fish,	Thos. Landers,
Rd. Bourne,	Edm. Freeman Sr.,	John Newland,
Sami. Briggs,	John Freeman,	Wm. Newland,
Geo. Buit,	Peter Gaunt,	Benj. Nie,
Jacob Burge,	John Gibbs,	Hy. Sanderson,
Joseph Burge,	Thos. Gibbs,	James Skiff Sr.,
Thos. Burge Sr.,	Wm. Gifford,	James Skiff Jr.,60
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Steph. Skif£	Thos.	Tupper	Sr.,	Danl. Wing,
Rd. Smith,	Thos.	Tupper	Jr.,	Steph. Wing,
Wm. Swift,	Mich.	Turner,	Joseph Winsor.
Thos. Tobie,
“ The town granted to Mr. Edmund Freeman, Jan. 17, on his
release of the town, a tract of land.” — Thos. Tobey was “ com-
missioned to pay to Indians 15 s. for every wolf killed by them.”
— The first record of horse-marks was this year: “ the horse^mark
of James Skiff.” — Mr. Thos. Hinckley of Barnstable was commis-
sioned by the court “ to administer marriages in Sandwich, Barn-
stable, and Yarmouth, by reason of their far distance from the
magistrates.”—And James Skiff was appointed “to exercise the
military.”
The great difficulty in the town, was now, ostensibly,
sympathy with u the Quakers; ” so that “ extraordinary
circumstances rendering it expedient” a marshal was
provided by the General Court, “ to do service in Sand-
wich, Barnstable, and Yarmouth,” and George Barlow
received the appointment for one year.1 Two of the
English Friends, Christopher Holder and John Cope-
land, as also Norton,2 were in the habit of frequenting
1 The office of Marshal, as also of Under Marshal, had been instituted
June 3, 1652. But the extra marshalship created by the appointment of
Barlow, was the result of the peculiar need in these several towns on the
Cape at this particular juncture.
* Bowden says, “ Holder and Copeland were in Sandwich, 20th of 6 mo.,
1657; and their arrival was hailed with feelings of satisfaction by many who
were sincere seekers after heavenly riches, but who had long been burdened
with a lifeless ministry and dead forms in religion. To these, in the author-
ity and life of the gospel the two Friends were enabled to offer the word of
consolation and encouragement. But the town of Sandwich had its advo-
cates of religious intolerance, and no small commotion ensued.” Again, in
view of their return in defiance of the government, the same author says,
“ Their gospel ministry had been instrumental in convincing many at this
place of the principles of Friends. . . . The Gov. issued a warrant for their
arrest as ‘ extravagant persons and vagabonds,* to be brought before him at
Plym. A copy of the warrant was refused, whereupon Wm. Newland, at
whose house the meetings of the newly convinced had been held, insisted
that it was illegal thus to commit the strangers without acceding to their
demand. A severe rebuke and a fine was the result of his operations.”
The two prisoners after their sentence appear to have been taken back to
Sandwich by Barlow, who had arrested them, for punishment; but Bowden
relates, “ The selectmen whose duty it was to see mem whipped, entertained
no desire to sanction measures so severe towards those who differed from
them in religion, and declined to act in the case. The marshal then took
them to Barnstable to a neighboring magistrate about two miles distant,ANNALS OP SANDWICH.
61
the place and holding their meetings. The convictions,
fines, and other penalties for countenancing these men
and others of the same persuasion, were many.1 We
need not be surprised that, under these circumstances,
many sympathizers became “converts?2 The refusal to
take the oath of fidelity which was now required of
all, augmented the hardships of which numbers com-
plained.3 The removal of several members of the
who he anticipated would lend a ready hand—an expectation which was
fully realized. This functionary ordered them to be tied to a part of an
out-house, and then turning executioner he gave each of them thirty-three
lashes.” Holder is represented to have been a well-educated man. There
is a tradition that meetings were still held, attended by large numbers, in a
secluded spot in the woods; and that the place of resort has, therefore,
been called 4 Christopher’s Hollow/ to this day.
1	Some who never adopted the peculiar tenets of the Friends, were
among the sufferers.
2	Bowden claims that “ Wm. Newland and Ralph Allen were among the
first.” The Newlands were “ of Irish extraction.” The Allens were “ of
the family of Geo. Allen who had been an anabaptist.” He says, “ There
were six brothers and sisters of Ralph, who joined the Friends. The father
had laid down his head in peace before Friends had visited these parts. His
children had resided upwards of twenty years in Sandwich and vicinity, and
were much respected by their neighbors.”—We find it stated in 4 A Brief
Account of Friends’ Meetings in New England,’ that 44 in 1658 no less than
18 families in Sandwich recorded their names In one of the documents of
the Society.” —Rouse, writing to England at that day, says, 44 We have
two strong places in this land, the one at Newport and the other at Sand-
wich.” — Mr. Cudworth says, the same year, “ Almost the whole town of
Sandwich is adhering towards them.” — And the ‘Records of Monthly
Meetings of Friends,’ show that 44 the Sandwich Monthly Meeting was the
first established in America; ” and this was before the year 1660 — before
they had been generally established in England.
3	Many were summoned to Plymouth, and fined £5 each, for the refusal.
Bowden records the following 44 distraints made about this period from
Friends resident in and near Sandwich, to satisfy fines imposed: —
Geo. Allen,	£25.15.0.	Hy. Howland,	£ 1.10.0.
Joseph Allen,	5.12.0.	John Jenkins,	19.10.0.
Matt. Allen,	48.16.0.	Rd. Kerby, Jno. Newland, Wm. Newland,	57.12.0.
Ralph Allen Sr.,	68. 0.0.		2. 6.0.
Ralph Allen Jr.,	18. 0.0.		36. 0.0.
Wm. Allen,	86.17.0.	Edw. Perry,	89.18.0.
Thos. Ewer,	25. 8.0.	Mich. Turner,	13.10.0.
Peter Gaunt,	43.14.6.	DanL Wing,	12. 0.0.
Wm. Gifford, Thos. Greenfield, Robt. Harper,	57.19.0. 4. 0.0. 44. 0.0.		£660. 7.6.’
It is but sheer justice to the Friends to say, inasmuch as they have often
been pronounced 44 stubborn and self-willed ” in these matters, that they claim
as a substitute for such epithets credit for “ inflexible adherence to consci-
entious conviction.” Their refusal to “ take oaths, perform military service,62
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
church at the close of the ministry of Mr. Leverich, and
the more recent troubles, left the strength of the church
much reduced. This state of things was not, however,
peculiar to this town. Dr. Cotton Mather1 called this
period “ the dark day of the Colony.”
In 1659, “the difficulties growing out of the late
commotions and distractions ” continued unabated.
James Skiff, the town’s deputy, was rejected by the
General Court on account of his friendship for his
neighbors, the Quakers;2 and George Barlow, the mar-
shal, was “ allowed by the Court to be a townsman.”
Henry Dillingham, “for refusing to serve as constar
ble, was fined £2 10.” William Leddra and Peter
Pearson, ministers among the friends, were “ arrested
at a religious meeting, carried to Plymouth and impris-
oned.” And, June 7, “ the Court taking notice of Wil-
liam Newland to be of such as, in the order that all
freemen who are Quakers or such as do encourage
them, shall lose their freedom,” ordered his appearance
before them, and he “ was disfranchised.”
A rate of £13 was “ ordered, to pay the demands of Plymouth
for the construction of the bridge at Eel-river.” — The town app.
“ John Ellis and James Skiff to take care of the whales and all other
fish that yield oil in quantity; ” and, subsequently, sale was made to
John Ellis of “ the right of all such fish coming within the limits and
bounds of the town the next three years.” — A record was or-
dered of “all moneys paid in by subscribers for tbe erection of the
new meeting-house.”3 — An agreement was made with Rd. Smith,
pay rates, &c., is,” says their apologist Clarkson, “ the result of an estab-
lished rule not to temporize or violate conscience.”
1 In his Life of Rev. Sami. Newman who d. July 5, 1663, Dr. M. says,
“ How many straits he underwent at Rehoboth in the dark day when he
was almost the only minister whose invincible patience held out under the
scandalous neglect and contempt of the ministry, which the whole colony
of Plym. was for a while bewitched into ! ”
* Several deputies of other towns—the entire minority, were “ set aside ”
for the same cause. “ Such was the temper of the times.”
3 Besides the sums before mentioned as subscribed, Mr. Thos. Tupper is
now credited £1. Credit is also given: “ Rec. also in Oil ”—probably the
receipts from drift whale—“£3.3.10.” The building account seems im-ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
63
“ to keep cattle at Scauton, from May 1 to Oct. 30, he to yard and
count them every night.”—Vm. Bassett was “licensed by the
court to draw wines; ” and “John Ellis to keep an ordinary and sell
strong waters and wines, only not to let town-dwellers stay drink-
ing unnecessarily at his house.”—And Rd. Bourne, Rd. Chadwell,
John Ellis, and Thos. Tupperwere commissioned “to meet at the
house of Ralph Jones to run the line between Barnstable and
Sandwich, in conjunction with agents appointed by the former
town” — Mr. Daniel Wing d. this year.
In 1660, the government having ordered that “ every town shall
keep a troop of horse,” the town agreed with Wm. Bassett, Joseph
Burge, and Stephen Skiff, “to provide, each man of them, a troop-
ing-horse and furniture fit for the service; the horses to be pas-
tured in Town-Neck, and themselves to be furnished with powder
by the town ” And, June 18, it being “training-day, it was mutu-
ally agreed by all that had paid in for the town’s powder, that
there shall be delivered to each one of the military company that
went to Yarmouth,1 2 lbs. of powder and what quantity more any
person shall pay for at 18 d. pr. lb.”
Fines “for attending Quaker meetings” are multi-
plied. The marshal, Barlow, is “ protested against ” to
the Court, as “ an unworthy man for office and a re-
proach to the government.” He was, soon after, “fined
10 s. for causing Benjamin Allen to sit in the stocks the
greatest part of a night without cause, and for other
wrongs ” And yet, immediately after the imposition
of this trivial fine for so grave offence, certain citizens
not before implicated in the troubles, are fined heavily
“ for refusing and neglecting to assist marshal Barlow in
the execution of his office ; viz. Joseph Chandler,
Richard Smith, and Nathaniel Fish. The marshal2 was
perfect; but the following disbursements are mentioned: “ Pd. Benj. Nve
and Thos. Tobey, for the frame, £12. Pd. Wm. Bassett for 500 great nails,
£1. Pd. for freight of the butter and firkin of nails, 1 s. 1 d. Pd. Benj. Nye
for 3 bu. corn, 9 s.”
1	The record says “ went; ” but shall go is probably intended; and the
occasion was a general muster ordered by government.
2	Barlow was peculiarly unfortunate in his domestic relations. One
daughter-in-law, and she a married woman, was arraigned “ for chopping
her father in the back,” and fined £10 — “ the sentence being designed by
the court to be light, she being with child.” And two others who stood in64
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
destined, however, to figure in other embroglios than
those we have mentioned; for he was soon made con-
spicuous also by his domestic infelicities.
In 1661, occurred the first instance on the Cape, so
far as the records supply, of divorce a vinculo mdrimonii
We regret being obliged to say, the husband was an
inhabitant of this town, and for the criminal acts that
led to the divorce he was a fined and publicly whipt; ”
nor did this punishment suffice — for his continued
naughtiness he was “ whipped a second time,” and then
disappears from the town.
In 1662, “Thomas Dexter and Edm. Freeman the younger,
were appointed to confer with the Barnstable committee and set-
tle the dispute about fish.”1
In 1663, a grant was made by the town, of “ all the fish that
come ashore within the town’s limits.”—It was “ordered that
wild cattle running at large in the woods, be taken up by their
owners before the 1st of May next; and that after, it shall be law-
ful for any man to kill such cattle found at large, pay themselves
for their pains, and give the owners the rest.” — It was “ordered,
July 6, that the little neck of land that lies by Wm. Newland’s
house, shall be appropriated as a burial-place for the town; and
that £3.7.4 be paid from the town’s money now in the hands of
James Skiff, without any more trouble.”2
In 1664, May 11, “Goodman Chadwell, Mr.Edm.Freeman, and
Thos. Tobey were chosen to agree with Thos. Dexter Jr. for the
grinding of the townsmen’s corn; and if they fail to agree, then
12 acres of the land at the river that comes out of the pond at the
head of Benj. NTye’s marsh, shall be granted to any other of the
townsmen that will set up a mill.”3
the relation of daughters to him, were before the court “ for like carriages
towards their father-in-law,” and were “ sentenced to be set in the stocks,”
which was accordingly done. Moreover, George himself and his wife, “ for
ungodly living,” were before the court and “ were reproved.” — We have
no desire to mention all his troubles or peccancies; and may, therefore,
briefly remark, without citing subsequent instances, that he was, as before
told, ‘ a bad fellow/
1	Difficulties, unhappily growing out of a misunderstanding in regard to
jurisdiction over Scorton Neck, were frequent.
2	This is what is now called ‘ the old burying-ground,’ surrounded on
three sides by the pond in the central village.
3	This was, doubtless, at Spring HilLANNALS OF SANDWICH.
65
The religious dissensions were now less prominent,
but had not ceased to be perplexing.1
In 1665, “ a controversy between Geo. Allen and Rcl. Chadwell
having arisen in reference to a highway, Mr. Edm. Freeman Sr.,
Edm. Freeman Jr., Thos. Tobey, and Benj. Nye were appointed
by the court to settle the matter.”—A casualty occurred, Aug.
19 — the death of Thos., son of Nathl. Fish, “ by the falling of a
bank at the mill-dam.”
The interposition of the Royal Commissioners, Feb.
22, was opportune, and the effect most happy. Re-
ligious intolerance was, from this time, checked in
good degree.
In 1666, Messrs. Freeman, Bourne, Chadwell, Newland, and
Burge, were “appointed to make an end of bounding men’s lands,
to answer fully the order of court.” — James Skiff Jr., the consta-
ble, was, on the complaint of Win. Bassett, amerced 10 s. and
1 We weary by such recitals, but have been as abstemious as consistency
with a fair view of the existing troubles would warrant. We have consci-
entiously endeavored to do the Quakers full justice; and may, perhaps,
be thought to have amplified the injuries they received, unnecessarily to the
damage of their persecutors. It is right that the cause of both parties
should be fully presented. We have no sympathy with intolerance by
whomsoever exercised; nor do we cherish any feeling worse than pity for ex-
travagances that sometimes provoke persecution. No reasonable man can
doubt that, in the heat of controversy, there were some egregious faults on
both sides; we can neither utter one word in justification of intolerance and
vindictiveness, nor can we fail to recognize in such facts as are found upon
the records, even after the above date, to wit, that Robert Harper “ for
his intolerably insolent conduct at Barnstable in railing against Mr. Wal-
ley, and at Sandwich against Mr. Wiswall, was whipped,” and that Richard
Willis “ for ribald speeches, was set in the stocks,” evidences of a prevalent
spirit not according to the meekness of the Gospel of Christ. If we mis-
take not, yearly ‘ Epistles' of ‘ Meetings of Friends/ tell how this spirit in
some instances recoiled upon the Society itself. Let not such wrong be
charged upon the Society, however; since the highest exponents of its
principles and discipline have sternly rebuked it. For our own part, with
one of these Epistles, nearly two centuries of age, lying before us, in which
solemn reprobation is expressed of instances that “ seem to have discovered
such a warmth of spirit and language that rather bore the complexion of
madness of party ” — of “ the calling ” a high official “ an impudent man
and pitiful governor, asking why he cud not send him to gaol since his back
had long itched to be whipped; and calling another magistrate known to
be a modest, peaceable man, an impudent rascal ” — of “ challenging dis-
putes and waging them with heat and insults ” — and " at last charging
Friends themselves that there were more damnable heresies and doctrines #
of devils among Quakers than among any profession of Protestants ” — we
are impressed with the importance of the due exercise of charity, and the
cultivation of peace and quietness among all Christian people.
VOL. h.	966
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
expenses, 44 for going to sd. Bassett’s house and taking away liquors
without order.”1
In 1667, Dec. 12, 44 a full record of the bounds of all lands,” was
completed.—Mr. Edward Dillingham Sr. d. this year;2 also Mr.
Thos. Ewer and Lt. John Ellis. — That smuggling presented its
temptations thus early is seen in the fact that Joseph Burge was
fined £1 44 for disorderly helping away horses out of the colony.”
Of 1668, we have nothing important to record. Quiet being
restored by the wise influence of the Crown, events became less
exciting.
In 1669, Mar. 18, the 12 acres of land which the town gave to
encourage the building of a mill, were laid out u at Little Pond.”
— A shirt having been stolen, and sold by an Indian as was alleged
by the person in whose possession it was found, the sd. person was
required by the court 44 to look-up the Indian; ” and to give him
the opportunity, he was bound over to the next term.
In 1670, an order was passed in town-meeting regulating the
“taking of pine-knots from the commons’ woodland, to make tar”
—Michael Blackwell was appointed agent for the Herring-river
1	Mr. Bassett had been " licensed to draw wines,” hut had resigned his
license. He probably had the remains of his stock on hand, and the con-
stable officiously attempted ‘ modern usage.’
2	Mr. Dillingham was an old and respected citizen, and one of the origi-
nal proprietors. His will, exhibited June 1, 1667, by Stephen Wing and
William Griffith, favors the presumption that he originated in Leicester Co.,
Eng., and probably from Bitteswell. The will is, in substance, “ a deed of
gift ” to his two sons, Henry and John, “ in trust, not to be their proper
right, but of persons named: only they are to take care of the goods until
the owners send for them; viz. 3 mares and 3 foals, 2 year-old horses, 2 milch-
cows, 1 four-year old steer, 1 three-year old steer, 1 two-year old heifer, 3
one-year old heifers,” with some other things. The persons mentioned
“ in whose proper right these goods are,” as follows : “ £22 to Rt. Low of
Bitteswell, son to blind Rt Low; £18 to Thos. Low, commonly called Thos.
Low of the Back House ; £6 to Thos. Low, called Thos. Low in the Lane;
£1 to Thos. Shatswell; £2.10 to Wm. Binsent; KF* All these are of Bites-
well in the Co. of Leicester; £ 4 to Anne Porter of Shawell, same Co.;
£2.10 to Rd. Porter, do.; £1 to Nathl. Cox of Litterworth; £1.10 to John
Wright of Cottesbith; £4 to Old Cart of Leine ; £3 to Edward Clark, do.;
£1 to another man that hath a bond of mine, of Earlephilton ; £2 to Will:
Thornton of Neather Elbrook. — I hope these sums may hold out; but if
short, to be pd. in proportion. There is much loss in the cattle. Henry
owes me £4, and John £5.10, for divers small things I sold them; to be
added.” — It is naturally supposed that these persons were former neighbors
of Mr. D., and had sent over cattle to receive back the increase after a term
of years. — Drusilla, the wife of Mr. D., had d. some 10 yrs. previous, viz.:
Feo. 6, 1656. His son Henry, b. in Eng. prob. as early as 1627 ; his son
John, b. prob. as early as 1630; and his dr. Oseah, who m. Stephen Wing
about 1647, (see judicial record,) and d. Ap. 9,1654, were his only children
whose names appear on the records.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
67
fishery. — A prominent man late an inhabitant of this town, but
now a resident on the Vineyard, sued for and obtained a divorce
— his wife, whom he married in Boston, having gone to Virginia
with another man. This and similar episodes we might omit were
the mention not necessary to constitute the shades that give prom-
inence to the picture of the prevailing morality of society. — Mr.
William Bassett d. this year, se. abt. 45.
In 1671, it was ordered that “ all masters of families and all
young men that are at their own disposing, shall kill or cause to
be killed, one dozen of black-birds.”
In 1672, Mr. Edm. Freeman Sr., Wm. Swift, Thos. Wing Sr.,
Thos. Dexter Sr., Mich. Blackwell, and Wm. Newland, were
“ requested to go forward settling and confirming the township
with the Sachem of Manomet or any other; also to answer the
Barnstable men concerning Aquidnet or any other persons that
shall lay claim to any part of this township; ” and Edward Perry
and Joseph Hoi way were “ requested to use their best endeavors
to procure the best evidence, both English and Indian, and to join
their efforts with Rd. Bourne’s, advising with him concerning the
Indian testimony.” —Edm. Freeman, Thos. Dexter Jr., and Edw.
Perry were “ appointed to act for the town in the matter of Scau-
ton Neck which is the right of the town, and to answer at the
Plym. court to the complaint of Mark and Amos the sons of the
Indian chiefs or to any other Indian or Englishman that shall lay
claim to sd. Neck or any part of it; Stephen Wing, town clerk, to
sign the letter of attorney ” — “For six young wolves,” £2 was
ordered “to be pd. to Danl. and Obadiah Butler.” — “Old John,
alias Mopes, Indian,”1 was adjudged by court “to pay Wm. Swift
his demand.”
1 We suppose this to be the same who is elsewhere called “ Old Hope,”
living at Manomet, and whose name occurs, 1675, in the jury which con-
demned the “murderer” of John Sassamon. In 1679, his testimony was
taken by the court at Plym. “ in reference to the little island called Nano-
messet lying near to Saconeesit,” i. e. Falmouth; and also “ in regard to a
little neck of land or little island called Uckatincet,” originally a neck “ be-
longing to a great island called Katomuck,” now Nashon; and “ another
little island lying between the sd. great island and Nanomesset, which he
testified “ belonged to Job Antiko, his grandfather Comuck, and to Job’s
father Tom Antiko.” And “ the said Mope or Hope further saith that the
sd. great island called Katomuck, and another little island called Peskeha-
meesit ” (the Rev. Experience Mayhew wrote it Pashchetonesit—the sup-
posed Tucker’s Island of history) “belonged to Webacowet.” — “Will:
Numack, Indian, also testified that he had often heard his father say the
same concerning the islands commonly called Nashanow ”—the name origi-
nally of the collective group. Webacowet and Numack were Indians of
Saconesset.68
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1675, it was “voted that the fines and forfeitures of those
who neglected to go out when drafted for the country’s service, be
collected according to the order of the Council of War, Dec. 30;”
also that Thos. Tupper, Hy. Dillingham, Stephen Skif£ and Josh-
ua Borgis be of the Council of War from this time.”—A meeting
was “ called, Feb. 28, by Lt. John Ellis and Benj. Hammond the
constable, and liberty was granted to any families that may be
necessitated, to repair to the town garrison for safety.” It was
also “ordered that those citizens entitled to vote, who do not
attend town-meetings, be fined 2 s. 6 d. each for each and eveiy
delinquency.” — The town, at a meeting called for the purpose,
“ granted liberty to the Indians to set up a house to meet in on
Lord’s days for the present summer, provided sd. Indians will not
damage the meadows by letting their horses into the same.”
“ The town voted, 23d 2d mo., to record the names of all those
that can make appear their just right to the privileges of the town;
whereupon, in open town-meeting, the following names were
ordered to be recorded:
Caleb Allen,
Frs. Allen,
George Allen,
Jed. Allen,
Ralph Allen,
Wm. Allen,
John Blackwell,
Mich. Blackwell,
Neh. Besse,
John Bodfish,
Job Bourne,
Rd. Bourne,
Sami. Briggs,1
George Buit,2 3
Jacob Burge,
Thos. Butler,5
Rd. Chadwell,
Thos. Dexter Sr., .
Hy. Dillingham,
John Ellis Sr.,
Ambrose Fish,
Nathl. Fish Sr.,
Edm. Freeman Sr.,
Edm. Freeman Jr.,
Peter Gaunt,
John Gibbs,
Thos. Gibbs Sr.,
Wm. Gifford,
Thos. Greenbill,
Rt. Harper,4
Joseph Holway,
John Jenkins,
Samuel Knott,
Thos. Landers,5
1	Mr. Samuel Briggs was a son of John who d. 1641 ae. 26, leaving this
son and a daughter. The son had a family in this town, but there are no
records of the generations after them.
2	Geo. Buit (sometimes written Bewitt) d. 1675.
3	Mr. Thomas Butler was early in town, but the record of his family is
brief. There is none of sons. Obadiah, by Eliz., had a large family,
from 1707 to 1733 ; and was perhaps a grandson. The name appears, how-
ever, in both Barnstable and Falmouth.
4	In 1689, Mr. Robert Harper was an inhabitant of Falmouth. He
had been a very prominent man in all the Quaker troubles, end himself “ a
great sufferer.” Besides his trials here of fines in the aggregate of £44, he
was sentenced to 15 stripes in Boston in 1659. By m. with Deborah Perry
May 9, 1654, and 2d, Prudence Butler June 22, 1666, he had.a large fami-
ly ; and his son Stephen had lands in F. 1704.
5	The first of the name here was Thomas Landers 1637. His inven-ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
69
John Newland,1
Wm. Newland,1
Benj. Nye Sr.,
Edw. Perry,
Hy. Sanderson,
James Skiff Sr.,
Stephen Skifi£
Wm. Swift Sr.,
Thos. Tobey Sr.,
Thos. Tupper Sr.,
Thos. Tupper Jr.,
Isaac Turner,
Mich. Turner,
Danl. Wing,
Joseph Wing,
Steph. Wing,
Thos. Wing Sr.,
Joseph Winsor.
In 1676, the name of John Smith was added to the list of
freemen.
From this latter circumstance, it may he inferred
that this was the period when the pastorate of the
Rev. John Smith commenced; although some circum-
stances have led to the supposition that he may have
officiated here earlier.2 That Mr. Ichabod Wiswall and
Mr. Thomas Dally were both employed here some
tory was presented hy Edmund Freeman Jr. and others 1675. There have
been many of the name, branches of which are also found in Falmouth
and Rochester.
1	Of the Newlands, John and William, though prominent men, we find
hut little on the records from which to condense genealogical data. Mr,
John Newland was now deceased, as is evident not only from the omis-
sion of his name as /Sr., but from the fact that his widow Eliz. d. May 22,
1671. The John here mentioned as townsman was prob. his son. — Wil-
liam m. Rose Holloway May 19, 1648.
2	There can be no doubt that after the departure of Mr. Leverich, Mr.
Richard Bourne and Mr. Thos. Tupper officiated, without ordination, for
some time. The Rev. Gideon Hawley in his biographical reminiscences
addressed in 1794 to the Hist. Soc. of Mass., says, “ Mr. Bourne and Mr.
Tupper were both of them persons of a religious turn—the latter a little
tinged with the fanaticism so prevalent at that time in the country from
whence they came. These men, as I learn by tradition, carried on at Sand-
wich the religious exercises, officiating publicly on the Lord’s day, each of
them having his party, but as the congregation was, all included, small, it
did not separate — the people agreeing that the one who had most adher-
ents at a meeting should for the time being be minister for the day. In the
process of time, the congregation settled Mr. Smith in whom they united.
Mr. Smith had for a time officiated in Barnstable, afterwards on Long
Island, then in the Jerseys, and finally returned and settled in Sandwich as
£astor. Messrs. Bourne and Tupper then turned their attention to the
idians.” The inference, without further data, would be that Mr. Smith was
the successor, with the above exceptions, of Mr. Leverich. He doubtless
was his successor in the pastorate, but after a long interval. Finding in the
records evidence of provision being made at different times “ for the sup-
port of the minister,” prior to the above date, we naturally inferred as did
Mr. Hawley, that Mr. Smith’s ministry commenced earlier than it actually
did. But, fortunately, at a late hour, we were put in possession of a letter
written by Rev. Benj. Fessenden soon after Ins own settlement in 1722,
addressed to Rev. Thos. Prince and designed to aid in his compilation of
his intended 2d Vol. of Chronology; and this letter clears up some matters
that before were exceedingly indistinct.70
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
considerable time before the settlement of Mr. Smith,
there can be no doubt.1
Ralph Allen and Stephen Skiff were appointed this year “ to
carry the town’s mind to Barnstable, that the towns may know
each other’s minds in reference to the bringing of some of the
people of the out-towns, among us.”2—And it was voted that
“ forasmuch as it is judged for the safety of the town to keep a
watch between Wayquonscott and the sea beyond Lt. John Ellis’
land, [and the same has already been concluded by commissioning
officers to be with those chosen by other towns a Council of War;
yet judging, notwithstanding, that the object will not be suffi-
ciently answered unless men be hired to keep constantly out upon
service,] that Lt. John Ellis, Thos. Tobey Sr., and Stephen Skiff
1	Mr. Fessenden's letter to which reference is made in the preceding note,
is conclusive on this point. He confirms the tradition afterwards repeated
by Mr. Hawley, of the state of things after the departure of Mr. Leverich;
saying, “ They are now without a minister, and brethren Bourne and Tup-
per officiate alternately.” He then adds, after reference to the religious
dissensions that for a long time prevailed and the defection of not a few,
“ They never could attain a settlement of the ministry among them till
about the year 1675, in which intervening time they had occasional preach-
ers; first lchabod Wiswall who removed from hence to Sagadahoc and
then went to sea, and after his return settled and died in Duxbury; and
then Thos. Dally who removed to Yarmouth to one Mrs. Howes who ad-
ministered to him in a consumption, but he died thereof. About the year
1675, John Smith was called and ordained their pastor. About the year
1688, Mr. Smith desired a dismission from his pastoral office on account of
some ill treatment he met with. A council was called, and the issue of it
was that he continued one year more in the pastoral office, and then desist-
ed.” Mr. Fessenden's tradition in regard to Mr. Wiswall is corroborated
by the mention in the Colony-court record of one Rt. Harper being arraigned
for “ railing against Mr. Wiswall,” at Sandwich. We say corroborated, for
Mr. Fessenden's letter pretends not to historical accuracy, and in some of
the earlier statistics he is evidently misinformed, as a reference to records
show. The letter itself, however, is his best apologist: it opens, “ Rev. Sir,
— The Hon. Col. Bourne just now informed me that your New E. Chr.
waited for the rem.s of our place, and you wondered I had not sent, &c. If
I don't mistake I once told you the reas. why I had not wrote, viz. that
what I could write could not pretend to the character of a Chronology wh.
is requisite adfidem verce Histories; and on this account had laid aside all
tho’t of ever collecting, or sending what I had heard and written for my
own private use, from some of the most ancient and intelligent people
among us. The first book of^records for the town is partly lost, and the
remains are very broken and scarcely legible; and the other books have
little or nothing in them to the present purpose: so that the greatest
strength of most of these collections lies in uncertain and doubtful tradi-
tion.”
2	A general meeting of the citizens of the Cape was held at B., for the
purpose of inviting the exposed and suffering from Indian depredations to
repair hither for succor.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
71
be empowered as agents to hire for the town as many men as shall
be necessary to accomplish the end proposed.”1
The town gave “ Benj. Nye leave to build a fulling-mill on a river
commonly called Spring-Hill River.” — Thos. Dexter and Wm.
Swift were chosen “to goto Yarmouth to And.'Hallett’s, to meet
men from Barnstable and from other towns for settling the bounds
of Scauton.” — An order was passed “ to prevent the destruction
of young trees by peeling the bark from the same.” — “A misun-
derstanding existing” among some of the towns as to some public
charges, and the council of war having determined that Sandwich
pay the town of Barnstable £73.16 “to balance the account of
charges that have arisen by the late wars,” the town agreed “ to
pay the same out of the great rate of £ 279.1.”
Mr. Thomas Tupper Sr., who has all along been conspic-
uous in Town’s affairs and as a religious teacher greatly
interested in the welfare of the Indians, died this year
at a great age. His descendants are numerous.2
In 1677, June 30, “the raters” were “ordered to make rates
concerning the war that is past;” and Rd. Bourne, Thos. Tupper,
and Stephen Skiff, were app. “to take account of what ought
justly to be satisfied for in reference to the war that hath already
been; as also to take account of all the town’s debts that appear
justly due by reason of what has fallen out in the war.” — A fla-
grant case is this year reported — that of a person having “ car-
nally known ” a young woman “ against her will.” The parties
were of the same family name and nearly related. The penalty
of death was not enforced because of some circumstances leading
to doubts in regard to the accumulating part of the crime alleged.
The sentence was a fine and public whipping.
1 The importance of this precautionary act can hardly be overestimated.
8 He d. Mar. 28, ©. upwards of 98 yrs. His wife d. this same yr. ae. 90.
He was one of the original grantees. He was Selectman many yrs., Deputy
19 yrs., and filled various offices, besides giving much of his time “ to the
work of gospelizing the Indians.” From the ‘Patronymica Britannia, by Lower,
Lond. 1840/ we extract the following: — “ Tupper appears in its original
form as Toppfer— a name well known in the literature of Germany and
France. The family, widely scattered in the religious troubles of the xvi.
century,* having * lost all ’ under Charles V. as obstinate Lutherans, were
called Toutperd in France, and, by corruption, Toupard in the Netherlands;
whilst in Germany and England and among the Puritan fathers of Ameri-
ca, the name assumed the form so familiar to the public as the designation
of the author of Proverbial Philosophy. The principal branch went to
Guernsey in 1548.” — Another branch located in Sandwich, Eng.72
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Mr. John Ellis, the ancestor of those of the name
in this town, one of the oldest and first settlers, died
this year.1
The following were added this year to the list of townsmen:
Geo. Barlow,2 3	Mordecai Ellis,	Ezra Perry Sr.,
Elisha Bourne,	Benj. Hammond,8	Ezra Perry Jr.
Daniel Butler,	Lodowick Hoxie,
In 1678, the following appears among the court orders: “This
may certify that certain Indians near Sandwich, whose names are
Canootus, Symon, and Joel, being apprehended on their confes-
sion, and convicted of feloniously breaking open a house and steal-
ing from a chest of Zechariah Allen of Sandwich, £25 in money^
and they having lost or embezzled sd. money and no other way
appearing how he may be satisfied for his loss, the colony have
sentenced the above-named Indians to be perpetual slaves, and
empower the sd. Allen to make sale of them in N. England, or
elsewhere, as his lawful slaves, for the term of their lives.”4 * * * Thos.
Gibbs Jr., and John Gifford, were added to the list of townsmen.
— And, at a meeting, July 15, “ a list was made of the names of
all who have taken the oath of fidelity: viz.
Frs. Allen,
Geo. Allen,
Geo. Barlow,
John Blackwell,
Mich. Blackwell,
Jacob Burge,
Joseph Burge,
Thos. Butler,
Thos. Dexter,
Hy. Dillingham,
Nathl. Fish,
Edm. Freeman Jr.*
1	He is called Jr., we know not for what reason. He must, we think,
have been Sr. of Sandwich. There probably was one of the name older
in the colony. Mr. Ellis m. Elizabeth, dr. of the first Edm. Freeman, and
his est. was ad. by the wid. Elizabeth and son Mordecai.
2	That this name was not placed earlier on the list of townsmen, shows
the estimation in which the individual had been held. We have referred,
Yol. I. 229, and in the present pp, to the creation of a marshal for the espe-
cial benefit of Sandwich, Barnstable and Yarmouth in 1658; the marshal
then and for such purposes begotten hy extra legislative act, doubtless had
previously an existence somewhere as Geo. Barlow: but where the Gen.
Court contrived to pick him up to execute its mandates, we are unable to
say, and care little to know beyond the fact that he was not a native product
of Cape Cod.
3	Benj. Hammond, s. of Wm. and Eliza., from London, was of Yarm.
1643, and came to this town about 1650. His 2d s. John was b. in S.
Nov. 22, 1653. He had, by his wife Mary, Hose, who d. 1676, and others.
He removed from this town to Rochester.
4	“A sister of John Sassamon was this year claimed as a slave by Joseph
Burge; the title being proved, it was ordered by the court that £5 be pd.
for her liberty.” “ Many women and children were thus held, throughout
the colony —victims of the late war.” — Baylies.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
73
John Gibbs,
• Thos. Gibbs Sr.,
Benj. Hammond,
Joseph Holway,
Lodo. Hoxie,
Benj. Nye,
Ezra Perry Jr.,
Hy. Sanderson,
Rd. Smith,
Thos. Tobey,
Thos. Tupper,
Steph. Wing,
Joseph Winsor.
Wm. Swift Jr.,
At the same meeting, “ Peter Gaunt, John Jenkins, and Wm.
Newland, in the name and behalf of the rest of their fellow-
townsmen that are of their religion, do declare their dissent
against the town’s disposing of any privileges that belong to
them as townsmen.”
In 1679, Sheaij. Bourne and John Chipman were ad. as towns-
men. — It was voted “ that Shubael Smith be pd. £1 for a wolf
killed by his bro. Benj.”—Also “that £1.15 be paid to Indian
Connelow for 7 young wolves.” — And “ that the School-master
shall, for his encouragement, have his rate abated.”
In 1680, May 18, Thos. Dexter, Stephen SkiflJ and Thos. Tup-
per, were app. agents, “ to buy of the Indians all the undisposed
lands that lie between Plym., Barnstable, and Suckanessett bounds
— all that they can purchase of the rightful proprietors.” — Thos.
Dexter was licensed “ to keep an ordinary for the entertainment
of strangers.” — A meeting was held, Aug. 30, “to arrange for the
support of a minister; and a rate of £50 was ordered.” — It was
“ordered that the £28 in silver brought to the town, be divided
among the persons that paid the war-rate.”—And, “at a town-
meeting for the choice of military officers, it was agreed to allow
£12 in pay as it ordinarily passes, to Mr. James Chadwick upon
consideration that he keep a school in Sandwich one year.”
In 1681, a committee was app. “ to make sale of the whales that
are lately cast ashore in the harbor; and it was agreed that Jo-
seph Holway and those with him in cutting-up the whales, shall
have that part they have already cut and secured, on paying £ 6
silver money to the town.” — The following “ were ad. townsmen
to vote for officers,” &c.:
John Barlow,1	Josh. Blackwell,	John Dillingham,
Wm. Bassett,	John Dexter,	Freeman Ellis,
1 Whether Geo. Barlow had been matrimonially connected before his m.
with Jane, the widow of Mr. Anthony Besse, does not clearly appear; but
he probably had been. John Barlow, prob. s. of Geo., had, by his w.
Elizabeth who d. May 10,1729, Sarah Oct. 15,1693; Keturah May 29,1698;
Samuel Feb. 14, 1700-1; John Oct. 30, 1706; Nathan Oct 30, 1710; and
William Ap. 14,1713. There have been many families of the name in town.
Some were early at Rochester and Duxbury, as also at Newport, R. L
vol. n.	1074
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Manoah Ellis,	Caleb Nye,	Eph. Swift,
Matthias Ellis,	Eben. Nye,	Wm. Swift Jr,
John Fish,	Jona. Nye,	Eph. Tobey,
Edm. Freeman Jr.,	Nathan Nye,	John Tobey,
Israel Gaunt,	John Perry,	Nathan Tobey,
Sami. Gibbs,	Benj. Smith Sr.,	John Wing,
Sam. Hammond,	John Smith Jr.,	Nathl. Wing,
Rich. Handy,	Shubael Smith,	Sami. Wing.
And the foUowing took the oath of fidelity:		
Benj. Barlow,	Mord. Ellis,	Ezra Perry Jr.,
John Barlow,	Ambrose Fish,	John Perry,
Moses Barlow,	John Fish,	Benj. Smith, s. of Rd.
Steph. Barlow,	Edm. FreemanJTr.,	John Smith,
Wm. Bassett,	Sami. Gibbs,	Shubael Smith,
Neh. Bessie,1	Thos. Gibbs Jr.,	Eph. Swift,
Josh. Blackwell,	John Gifford,	Sami. Swift,
Elisha Bourne,	Sami. Hammond,	Wm. Swift Jr.,
Sami. Briggs,	Rd. Handy,	Eph. Tobey,
John Dillingham,	Caleb Nye,	John Tobey,
Freeman Ellis,	Eben. Nye,	Wm. Tobey,
Manoah Ellis,	Jona. Nye,	Thos. Tupper Jr.,
Matthias Ellis,	Nathan Nye,	Sami. Wing.
Richard Chad well, an original grantee, died this
year, Nov. 27; and thus the family name of a prom-
inent citizen disappears from the town records.2
In 1682, Jan. 16, Mr. Edm. Freeman Sr. and Ezra Perry Sr.
were app. a com. “ to see that the minister is paid according to the
1	Mr. Anthony Besse came over 1635 se. 26. It is said “ he preached
to the Indians.” He was among the first who came to this town from Lynn.
His will bears date Feb. 10, 1656-7, in which he mentions wife Jane, and
children Nehemiah, David, Anne, Mary, and Elizabeth. His inv. rendered
1657. We know not the date of the births of these, except that David was
b. May 23, 1649. We know too that Anthony was of age in 1664. It is
said that Anne m. Andrew Hallett; and Elizabeth, we know, m. Joseph
Bodfish 1674. The widow Jane m. 2d the notorious George Barlow. Her
will bears date Aug. 6, 1693, in which she mentions drs. Anne Hallett,
Eliza. Bodfish, and Rebecca Hunter, and sons Neh. Besse and John Bar-
low. Nehemiah, by his wife Mary, had Mary Nov. 1680 who m. Benj.
Curtis of Plym. Dec. 3,1700; Nehemiah July 3,1682 ; Hannah 1684-5 who
m. Thos. Jones Oct. 5,1708 ; Robert Ap. 31, 1690 who m. Ruth Pray of
Bridgewater May 9, 1712; Joshua Feb. 14,1692-3; David Dec. 23, 1693,
who m. Mary Pray July 18, 1717 ; Benj. Sept. 20,1696; and Ebenezer Ap.
30, 1699. — The Besses were truly unfortunate in their connection with
Barlow as appears from sundry court records.
2	He m. Katharine Pressbury, July 22,1649, but left no issue.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
75
order of court in such case provided.” — It was voted, May 17,
that “ forasmuch as the inhabitants of Barnstable have manifested
their desire to have the bound-marks sufficiently set up between
the towns of B. and S., and that this town would make choice of
some meet persons to join with themselves to exact and set up
the boundaries aforesaid that peace and unity may still be contin-
ued, Edw. Perry and Joseph Holway be delegated to that duty.”
—	“ Agreed that all town debts may be paid in rye at 3 s. 6 d. pr.
bu., barley at 3 s., and Indian corn at 3 s.”— “Ordered, Dec. 8,
that whales that come ashore, and other great fish that yield any
quantity of oil, be given to Thomas Tupper, Geo. Allen, Caleb
Allen, and Sami. Briggs, for ten years, for one half the oil deliv-
ered at the dock in good casks — they to pay a barrel of oil out
of every whale, to the country according to the order of court.”
—	Samuel Prince, John Allen Sr., Thos. Tupper Jr., and Thos.
Smith were this year ad. townsmen.
The decease of Mr. Edmund Freeman^ Sr., the origi-
nal proprietor of the township, occurred this year.1
Of the decease and burial of his wife, see Vol. I. 616-18, and of branches
of the family, Yol. 1.601 and 618. All that is certain of the immediate issue of
this our progenitor, is, that the following children came over with him in 1635
in the ship Abigail, Rd. Hackwell master, which commenced loading in May,
and soon after sailed from London, viz.: Alice b. in Eng. abt. 1618, who m. Dea.
Wm. Paddy of Plvm. Nov. 24, 1639, ancf37Ap. 24, 1651, [whose issue were
Elizabeth Nov. 12, 1641, John Nov. 25, 1643, Sami. Aug. 1, 1645, Mercy
1646, Thomas Sept. 6, 1647, and Joseph Sept. 10, 1649;] Edmund b. abt.
1620; Elizabeth b. abt. 1625; and John b. abt. 1628; but some have it
that there was another dr. who m. Edward Perry, inasmuch as Mr. F.’s will
June 21, 1682, pr. Nov. 2. 1682, mentions “ sons Edm. and John, dr. Eliza-
beth Ellis, and son-in-law Edward Perry,” to whom with his g. s. Thos. Paddy
he gives his property. We will not enter here upon a discussion of this
last conjecture. It has been generally conceded that “ Mrs. Elizabeth
Freeman ” who d. Feb. 24, 1675-6, was the wife of the Sr. Edmund Free-
man; but even of this some doubt has been expressed. — Edmund, s. of
the above, m. Rebecca, dr. of Gov. Thos. Prence Ap. 22, ld?6, anc£ some
have it, had Rebecca— the mother dying "soon after, and the dr. m. Ezra
Perry. It may be so; this much is certain, Mr. F. m. 2d Margaret Perry
July 13, 1651 — not Young as some report it, for the record lsplmn — ana
had Margaret Oct 2, 1652; Edjnund Oct. 5, 1655 ; Ahce Mar. 29, 1658;
prob. Rachel Sept. 4, 1659; Saijih Feb. 6, 1662; and Deborah Aug. 9,
1665. We say probably, for the Junior is omitted in the record of the last
three births. —Edmund, of the last family, by his wife Sarahs had Edmund ~
Aug. 30, 1683; HBenjT Jan. 6, 1685-6; Mary Mar. 13, 1687-8, who m.
Tim. Nye Aug. 7,1716, and d. June 1734 ;Tohn June 12, 1693; Thomas
Mar. 26, 1696 ; Joseph July 18,1698, who m.'Tabitha Tobey May 9, 1726-7
and d. 1790 in Cuxbury, leaving there a large family; William,Dec. 4,
1700; Sarah Dec. 6, 1703, who m. Isaac Nye Feb. 7, 1725-6 and d. 1786;
and Isaacl5ct. 20, 1706. All these were b. m Sandwich; but the father, just
before his decease, removed to that part of Yarm. called Nobscusset, having
^ \76
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1683, it was “ordered that Stephen Skiff and John Blackwell
join our loving neighbors of Plym. to set the bounds between
Plym. and Sandwich; and that Sheaijashub Bourne and Thos.
Tupper join with Suckanessett men to erect bounds between
them and Sandwich, according to the order of this Court.” Also,
that “ whereas wolves are very destructive in devouring our crea-
tures, the Indians be paid for killing, a bounty of 15 s. for old
exchanged property with the Halls of that place; and hence his will, May
13, 1720, pr. May 23, mentions him “ of Yarmouth.” It mentions also
his “ wife Sarah, two drs. and 7 sons,” and gives to the eldest son “ a
double portion” of his estate — a part of which was “lands in the Ct.
Colony.” It has been supposed, not without some reason, that his wife was
a dr. of Mr. John Sunderland. [Mr. S., in his will, Sept. 7, 1700, pr. Ap.
4, 1704, names “ my wife Tamzin, drs. Gourdon Severance, Mary Bangs,
Sarah Freeman, ana Mary Sears,” as legatees. “ Mr. S., late of Eastham ”
1704, had been taxed in Yarm. 1676, then a “ school-master,” and seems to
have removed after.] As Mr. F. failed to name in his will an executor, an
agreement was signed by the heirs June 15, 1720, sustaining the provisions
of the will and proposing the widow as administratrix—signed by “ Sarah
widow, Edmd., Benj., John, Thos., Joseph, Wm., Isaac, Timo. Nye and
Mary his wife, Sarah Freeman,” and by “ Ebr. Wing guardian to the three
younger children” Wm., Sarah and Isaac.—Edmund, eldest son of the
last family, lived in Sandwich, and m. Keziah Presbury. They had Edmund
Mar. 14, 1708-9 who d. May 27; Lydia Ap. 8, 1710 who m. Benj. Nye and
d. 1730; Edmund Sept. 30, 1711 O. S., who grad. H. C. 1733; Prince
May 13, 1713; Stephen Aug. 14, 1714; Sylvanus Sept. 7,1716; Nathaniel
Mar. 31, 1718; Keziah July 7, 1719 who m. Snow of Ashford, Ct., and 2d
Shaw of Pomfret, and d. 1789; Sarah Jan. 18, 1720 who m. Malachi
Conant of Mansfield, Ct. and d. 1791; Deborah Ap. 17, 1722 who m. Zech.
Paddock, removed to Albany, N. Y., and d. 1803; Skiffe Dec. 28, 1723;
Thomas Aug. 17, 1725 who d. May 21, 1726; Abigail Feb. 20, 1726-7
who m. Wm. Johnson of Mansfield, and d. 1782; and Margaret Aug. 21,
1729 who d. Sept. 10. All this large family of 14 ch. were b. in S., except
possibly the last, and all ultimately removed to Mansfield, Ct., as did the
parents to possess the inheritance of “ lands in the Ct. Colony.” Mr. F.
d. June 1, 1766; his wife d. Ap. 20, 1764. — Edmund, 2d s. of the last
family, b. 1711, resided in S. and m. Martha Otis Aug. 7, 1736; he then
removed to Nobscusset and engaged temporarily in school-teaching; and
finally removed to Ct. and died Feb. 11,1800. His issue was Edmund Ap.
29, 1737, whose family was the first settled in Hanover, N. H., where his
wife, the first winter, was the only female in the township. He was after-
wards known as Col. F. of Lebanon; Nathl. Mar. 11, 1738 who d. July
21, 1740; Nathaniel (the bond, father of the writer of this history) Mar.
28, 1741 O. S.,the preceding b. all in Yarm.; Abigail May 20, 1743 who
m. Aaron Hovey of Mansfield; Jonathan Mar. 21, 1745 who m. Sarah
Huntington of Norwich, and was Mem. Cong, from N. H.; Otis May 13,
1748, known in Hanover as Col. F., a thrifty farmer; Russell July 17,
1750 who resided in Haverhil, was Speaker of the H. Rep. of N. H. 1797,
and also of the Council, and was murdered Dec. 18, 1805 by the infamous
Burnham ; Moody Ap. 25, 1753 who d. in W. N. York, a fanner, July 16
1828; Frederic Oct. 8,1755 who d. in Mansfield, June 19,1818, a prominent
man; and Martha Mar. 15, 1759 who m. Roger Hovey July 6, 1783, and
resided in Thetford, Vt. — Other branches of the descendants of Mr.
Edmund Freeman b. 1655, we shall take up in other parts of this volume.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
77
•wolves, and 5 s. for pups.”—Land was this year given to Mr. Sam-
uel Prince.1
In 1684, a road from Barnstable to Plym., through Sandwich,
was laid out by a juiy empanelled by the governor. — The town
“ordered that inhabitants who are 70 yrs. of age shall be excused
from killing the quota of blackbirds.”
In 1685, Sandwich became a town of * the county of
Barnstable’—the Plymouth Colony being divided into
three counties. The General Court provided “that the
former titles of lands be confirmed,” which confirma-
tion under the seal of the Colony was made necessary
in consequence of the proceedings of Randolph.2 —
Mr. Thomas Burge died this year, Feb. 13.
1	“ A house-lot on the commons near the mill.” The house he erected
and in which his distinguished sons were bom, is still standing. It is much
to be regretted that we shall not be able to present a full biography of this
eminent citizen of Sandwich known to be highly influential and respected,
and whose distinguished son did so much to perpetuate a record of impor-
tant events, and to whom we are so greatly indebted# for many invaluable
labors. See Yol. L 366.
2	«be it known to all men by these presents, That whereas at
his Majesty’s Gen. Ct. held at Plymouth, the 4th of June last, it was ordered
and enacted that his Majesty’s Ct. of Assts. be from time to time a Com.
empowered to examine, allow and confirm all such claims and titles to lands
which were formerly gr. or allowed by the Gen. Ct. either unto townships or
to particular persons, which being allowed by the sd. Com. shall pass the
seal of the Govt, for further confirmation thereof: And forasmuch as it hath
been made to appear unto the sd. Court of Assts. now sitting at Plym., the
7th day of July 1685, that a certain tract of lands was by Mr. Wm. Brad-
ford and his associates assembled in court the 3d day of Apl. 1637, granted
unto Mr. Edmund Freeman, Hy. Feak, Thos. Dexter, with others of their
associates to erect a plantation or town in this government, and to receive
in more inhabitants to them according to order, and duly to dispose of sd.
lands to such as were or should be orderly admitted to them in sd. township
which was afterwards called Sandwich, and all such privileges allowed to
them as per the Ct. is allowed and gr. to other townships; and the bounds
of sd. town laid out by Capt. Myles Standish and Mr. John Alden app.
thereunto by the Ct, which bounds are as followeth, viz. — ‘Westerly by
the dividing line between the town of Plym. and the sd. town of Sandwich;
and on the East by the line which divides between sd. town of Sandwich and
the town of Barnstable, which runs Northeast to the sea and Southwest into
the woods, and is bounded Northerly by the sea and Southerly partly by
the dividing line between them and Suckanesset, and partly by the Indians*
lands, according to the known and accustomed boundaries; — This Court
doth therefore declare, ratify and confirm all the aforesaid lands, both up-
land, swamps, meadow, marsh, and flax-lands, with all waters, rivers, creeks,
coves and harbors contained within sd. bounds and limits, with all and sin-
gular the mines, fishing-profits, privileges and appurtenances, to all and78
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1686, the town was ordered by the Gen. Ct. to select a jury-
list, and to send jurors to the court. — The Colony laws being
printed, and ordered to be published in the several towns, “ Thos.
Tupper andLudowick Hoxie were appointed by the town to divide
the law-books among the citizens according to the last year’s coun-
try’s rate.”—Mr. Thos. Dexter Sr. died this year, Dec. 29.1
every the sd. granted premises belonging or any wise appertaining, to be
and remain to the sd. town of Sandwich and to the several proprietors
thereof according to their and each and every one of their common or par-
ticular interest, right, title, and proprietry unto the sd. lands or other the
premises, or unto any part or parcel thereof by grant or allowance of sd.
town, or by any other lawful ways and means whatsoever had and enjoyed
or to be nad and enjoyed, and their and each and every one of their suc-
cessors, heirs, and assigns forever: To have and to hold to the sd. town of
Sandwich and to the several proprietors whatsoever respectively and to
their and each and every one of their successors, heirs and assigns forever,
and to their and every one of their only proper use and behoof respectively
forever, according to the tenure of our Charter or Letters Patents to be
holden of his Majesty as of his manor of East Greenwich in the County of
Kent in free and common soccage and not in capite nor by Knight’s service
yielding and paying to our sovereign lord the King, his heirs and successors
forever one fifth part of the ore of the mines of gold and silver, and other
fifth part thereof to the President and Council in sd. Letters Patent men-
tioned, which shall be had and obtained within the precincts and limits of
the bounds aforesaid, for all service and demands whatsoever: — In testi-
mony whereof this Court doth allow the common Seal of this Govt, to be here-
unto affixed for the further confirmation thereof. Now, therefore, further know
ye: That I, Thomas Hinckley, Gov. of this Colony of New Plym., for our
Sovereign lord the King, for this present year, 1685, by virtue of the trust
and trusts committed to me, as well as by a former Act and Order made by
sd. Wm. Bradford and his associates assembled in Court A. D. 1636, as by
the above mentioned act for the more full assurance and absolute confirma-
tion of all the sd. lands and other the premises (in this Deed contained)
unto the sd. town of Sandwich, and to the several proprietors thereof, their
and every of their heirs, successors and assigns forever in manner and form
aforesd. according to the true intent and meaning of these Presents, yield-
ing and paying as aforesaid, have hereunto affixed the Common Seal of
this Government, this 13th day of July, 1685, and in the year of the Reign
of our Sovereign Lord the King, James the Second by the grace of God,
of England, &c.
This Deed is recorded in the	Thomas Hinckley, Gov.
Book of Evidences of Lands
enrolled 1681, & p. 394.
Pr.- Nathaniel Clarke, Sec’y.
1 Mr. Dexter was, it is supposed, the son of the original proprietor of
the same name, whose ultimate residence here seemed for a time to be in
suspense. The son was a respected and useful citizen. Of the father, who
finally fixed his residence here, we can give at best only an ambiguous ac-
count : Mr. Thomas Dexter, the first, was early at Lynn, and when ad.
May 18, 1631, wras the owner of 800 acres of land. It appears from Lewis
and others, that in 1630 he bought of 4 Duke William,’ alias 4 Black Will,’
whose father had been a sachem at Swampscott and d. before the English
arrived, the whole of Nahant — paying therefor a suit of clothes. ThisANNALS OF SANDWICH.
79
In 1687, July 12, Edward Perry was chosen “ commissioner; ”
John Allen Sr. app. “ sealer of measures, weights, and yards; ”
Thos. Tupper “was chosen captain,” John Gibbs “lieut.,”Wm.
Bassett “ ensign,” and Shubael Smith “ military clerk.”
Black Will was hung in 1633 by the white people in revenge for a murder
committed, as was supposed, by Indians. Will was not the offender, but his
prominence caused him to be selected as the victim for the retaliatory act!
Gov. Winthrop says that 44 Bagnell ” — the white man murdered, “ was a
wicked fellow and had much wronged the Indians.” Mr. D. lived at that time
on the banks of the Saugus River, was an active and enterprising man, and
land-speculator. He built a mill and weir across the river, and was known
as 4 farmer Dexter/ He also built a fence across * the reach’ at Nahant
4 to keep out wolves and swine/ His relations with the people seem not to
have been quite peaceful; and he is reported as having quarrelled even with
Mr. Endicott who so far forgot his own dignity as to strike Dexter. In
1633, Mar. 4, Dexter was ordered to be 44 set in the bilbowes,” also fined
£10 and disfranchised, 44 for speaking reproachful and seditious words
against the Government here established.” Nor did his troubles end thus;
for, besides other difficulties, he was presented in 1640 44 for common sleep-
ing in meetings for public worship,” and was fined. Vexatious and expen-
sive lawsuits to which he was a party, are mentioned. Lewis says he
removed to Sandwich, 1637. This may be correct; but the established resi-
dence of Mr. D. does not appear by the records to have been so early.
Indeed his turn for speculation and his enterprising spirit seem to have
made him somewhat a cosmopolite. His assignment of lands in S. in 1641,
was conditional. In 1643, he was one of those liable to bear arms in S.
An interval, 1648 and subsequent, seems to have marked his domicil in
Barnstable, and then again he is of Sandwich. Mr. Savage, we sup. on
good authority, reports him as having d. in Boston 1677. He had,
doubtless, sons Thomas and William, and a dr. Mary is recorded as b. in
Barnstable, Aug. 11, 1649. The sons, Thomas at least, must have been b.
in England. — Mr. Thomas Dexter Jr., whose d. is mentioned above as
occurring Dec. 29, 1686, had by w. Elizabeth who d. Mar. 19, 1714, Eliza-
beth, Mary, John, and Abigail. The first named b. Sept. 21, 1651, is said
to have been a maiden in 1717; the second, Mary, is reported as having m.
Daniel Allen of Swansey; and the last, Abigail, b. June 12,1663, as having
m. Jonathan Hallett Jan. 30, 1684. — John, the only son of Thos. Jr. of
whom we have knowledge, m. Mehitable Hallett, sup. to be dr. of Andrew,
Nov. 10, 1682, having been ad. when prob. just of age a townsman in S.
1681, where he had Elizabeth Nov. 2, 1683 $ Thomas Aug. 26,1686, who is
afterwards called Jr. whilst his uncle Thos. is called Sr.; Abigail May 26,
1689; and John Sept. 11, 1692. — William, the 2d son of Thomas 1st,
named above, m. Sarah Vincent July, 1653, and had Mary 1654; Stephen
j 1657; Philip 1659; James 1662; Thomas 1665; John 1668, and Beni.
1670. He is said to have removed to Barnstable in 1670, and to have a.
in Rochester 1694. — Stephen, s. of Will, who went to Be., m. Ann
Saunders Ap. 27, 1696, and had Mary Aug. 24, 1696; a son Dec. 23, 1698,
who d. soon; Abigail May 13, 1699; Content Feb. 5, 1701; Ann Mar. 3,
1703; Sarah June 1, 1705; Stephen July 26, 1707 ; Mercy July 5, 1709 ;
Miriam, Mar. 8, 1712; and Cornelius Mar. 21, 1714. James, sup. to be
s. of Will., in his will June 18, 1697, mentions his w. Elizabeth and dr.
Elizabeth, and 44 dr. if the last be a dr., or if son,” &c., and names 44 Capt.
Seth Tope, Thos. Dexter, and Benj. Dexter, my dear brethren, guardians ”
to his children. — The name disappears from S., but became common in
Rochester, and in R. Island.80
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1688, the pastoral office of the Rev. John Smith,
terminated at his own request. As the church records
previous to the ordination of his successor are lost, it
has been impossible to give, hitherto, full and authentic
statistics of ecclesiastical proceedings. Mr. Smith had
already continued to hold office one year since he first
urged a request to be released; being pressed thereto
by the advice of an ecclesiastical council. The church
had not yet recovered from the sad state into which it
had been thrown by the religious dissensions of the
last thirty years. The active male members of the
church, it is said, now numbered but five, besides Mr.
Smith, viz. James Skiff, Thomas Tupper, Thomas Tobey,
Jacob Burge, and William Bassett. Mr. Smith was
already a man ‘ well stricken in years/ having consider-
ably passed the ‘age allotted to man/1 and during his
entire pastorate had painful experience of the difficul-
ties that are the unavoidable inheritance of the min-
ister whose lot is cast in the midst of party strife.
1 He was now 74 years of age; and yet he survived many, we trust, hap-
pier and less perplexing. That part of the obituary record that mentions
his decease, is so worn and mutilated that, for many yrs. the last figures of
dates occurring near the margin of the pages are entirely illegible. “ Mr.
John Smith died Oct. 2, 17—,” is all that is recoverable. We think there
is good reason, from the surroundings, to add a unit to the date which looks
like 171—. He evidently died at a great age, and had probably been long
disabled by the weight of years. — Our attention has been called by J.
Wingate Thornton Esq., of Boston — one of the most keen-sighted and
accurate historical observers of the day —to a deposition taken for probate,
which may be supposed to settle the question in respect to the origin and
date of birth of this venerable Sandwich minister. It appears from this
document, that the father of Rev. Mr. S. was Thomas Smith of Brins-
pittae, about 5 m. from Dorchester in Dorsetshire. The deposition is that
of the son himself, “ John, now, Feb. 8, 1651, in Barnstable, New Plym*
outh Colony. The sd. John, only son and heir, supposeth his age about
37, it being, next May, 21 yrs. since he came out from England.” He, i. e.
the sd. John, “had sisters in England, viz. Hannah and Tumson.” He
must, then, have come over in 1630, at the age of 16, having been b. in
1614. He was in Barnstable early, for he was betrothed to Susanna
Hinckley in 1642, and married in 1643. He joined the Barnstable church
Oct. 13, 1644, and is first mentioned in the S. records in 1676. — His
children were : Samuel, b. Ap. 1644; Sarah, May 1645 ; Eben Oct. 1646;
Mary, Nov. 1647; Dorcas, Aug. 1650; John, buried 1651; Shubael, Nov.
1653; John, Sept. 1656; Benj., Jan. 7, 1658; Ichabod, Jan. 7, 1660 j
Elizabeth, Feb. 1662; Thomas, Feb. 1664; and Joseph, Dec. 6, 1667.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
81
Early this year, “ an invitation was given to Mr.
Pierpont of Roxbury to preach,” whose ministrations
were highly acceptable, and whom the people would
gladly have received as their pastor j1 but, after offici-
ating here some time, he felt constrained to accept a
call in another direction.2
In 1689, Stephen Skiff was authorized to solemnize marriages
in Sandwich.
In 1690, Sept. 19, lands were set apart for the use of the minis-
try in Sandwich — “ for such as shall he here called and settled
by a major part of the inhabitants.”
In 1691, March 11, an invitation to Mr. Roland Cot-
ton was extended to continue his labors temporarily,
and subsequently he was elected to the pastoral office.3
It was voted, Oct. 3, that certain lands “ be given to
Rev. Roland Cotton — to be held by him, his heirs and
assigns forever if he remain among us until God take him
away by death or otherwise: provided, however, if he
1	Mr. Fessenden’s notes say, “ He left an excellent character among us,
and the aged that remember his ministry mention it with great affection
and applause.”
2	The ‘ Diary ’ of Mr. Pierpont who was b. in Roxbury 1665, grad. H. C.
1685, and set. at Reading 1689, says : “ Ap. 26,1688,1 had a call to preach
at Sandwich, and on the 29th went there accompanied by Elder Chipman.
May 5, a public Fast, appointed by reason of sore drought: when the after-
noon exercise began, God sent a plenteous rain. May 9, returned fm. S.
to my father’s. Aug. 8, went to S. according to promise and continued
there a month. The people were very desirous oi my settlement among
them; but I kept myself free from any engagement, as my friends coun-
selled me. Sept. 5, returned to my father’s house. . . . Received a call
to Reading; was in a great strait and knew not which way to move. I had
inclined to go to Sandwich, first because I saw there was an opportunity to
do service for Christ in that place; second, the generality of the people,
except Quakers, were desirous of my coming among them; third, the young
men in the place were in danger of being drawn away by the Quakers if a
minister was not speedily settled among them. Some counselled me to go to
Sandwich — others to Reading. My honored father was averse to my going
to S.” — The elements of strife were probably not yet quiet. Mr. Fessen-
den relates proof of a proselyting spirit during the ministry of Mr. Smith;
citing the name of one, “ a member of the church, proselyted to the Qua-
kers by one John Stubbs.”
3	It does not appear that Mr. Cotton was regularly indycted to the pas-
torate for some time. Mr. Fessenden intimates that there were some
obstacles in the way, but does not define. He says Mr. Cotton was received
to be leader in church affairs — to
VOL. II.
1182
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
die without issue, or if he remove to better himself,
the said lands shall revert to the town.” Mr. Cotton’s
name was entered as townsman Oct. 8.
The following other persons were admitted townsmen: viz.
In 1692, liberty of conscience being assured by the
Charter, church-membership was no longer a requisite
for civil distinction.—Several important additions were
made to the church this year;4 and, Aug. 30, the church
renewed their election of Mr. Cotton.
In 1693, it was voted by the town, to give to Rev. Mr. Cotton
tt to improve so long as he continues here in the ministry, the
small neck lying between the two runs of water.”—It was voted
“ to engage, and pay from the treasury for, a man to take care of
the town’s sheep, and to erect two cottages near the sheep-pasture,
for the shepherds.” — The town was this year in controversy with
the sheriff of the county, “ he having seized in right of the Crown
two whales on shore at Town-Neck.”5 * *
1	We are unable to give any satisfactory account of the Gaunt family;
they were numbered among the Quakers, and finally the name disappears
from the records.
2	Mr. Jenkins had a large family in this town, but what relation he bore
to others of the name who preceded him we are unable to say. These also
were found among the Friends, and their representatives may doubtless be
found in other towns.
3	Mr. Oliver Norris had by his w. Margery, Benj. Mar. 11,1695-6;
Samuel Mar. 20, 1698-9; John July 2, 1710. The records do not show
consecutive generations of the name. Their record is prob. to be found
chiefly in Plym.
4	“ They received to their number Mr. Samuel Prince, May 1, by letter
of dismission from the church at Hull, and Mr. Elisha Bourne at the same
time. Mr. Shearj. Bourne was propounded Sept. 4, and ad. Sept. 18. The
male members were now 10 in number, and the female 12.”
5	The settlers, in early times of the Colony, regarded it an object of
great importance to encourage the raising of sneep. In 1633 it was enacted
that “ no sheep shall be sold out of the Colony ” under a penalty involving
the forfeiture of their value. At the above date, and long after, large
tracts were devoted as “ sheep-pastures ” and shepherds were appointed.
The above order was taken m regard to “ the sheep to be kept on the
plains.”
John Allen Jr.,
Nathan Barlow,
John Chipman Jr.,
Edw. Dillingham,
Mord. Ellis,
Israel Gaunt,1
Chris. Gifford,
Sami. Gifford,
Joseph Hoxie,
Zeth. Jenkins,2 3
Rd. Landers,
Oliver Norris,8
Israel Tupper,
Danl. Wing Jr.,
Benoni Young.
Sami. Perry Jr.,
Jona. Tobey,ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
83
In 1694, Nov. 28, the Rev. Mr. Cotton was ordained.1
In 1695, Richd. Allen and Timo. Bourne were ad. townsmen.
— “ The town did give to those of their neighbors called Quakers,
half an acre of ground for a burial-place, on the hill above the
Canoe Swamp between the ways.” — “ Liberty was gr. to Elisha
Bourne to set up a grist-mill upon Herring River, provided the
toll shall not exceed 2 qts. pr. bu.” — “ Voted to give back to Mr.
Elisha Bourne and to John Gifford, one half the money they lately
paid for not going out when impressed in his Majesty’s ser-
vice.” — “ Ordered that no Indians shall settle upon any part of
the town’s commons within two miles of the country-road.”—Cer-
tain Indians were paid £1.10 “for the heads of three wolves.” —
“ Ordered that 4 d. per M. be paid the town’s agent for catching
the town’s herrings.” — And, “for the schoolmaster,” £10 was
appropriated “ the present year.”
In 1696, it was “ ordered, taking into serious consideration the
great necessity of making provision for the comfortable support
of the Rev. Roland Cotton now pastor of the church and dispenser
of the word of God here, no suitable provision being yet made in
that respect; that £80 be assessed to be pd. to him Nov. 1, annu-
ally : provided, however, that he shall make void the agreement
of individuals with himself for his maintenance, and that he shall
remit yearly the proportion of all those neighbors generally called
Quakers.”
In 1697, it was “ ordered that the Indians’ land at Weekepoh
be divided from the town’s lands; also that a com. treat with
Indian Ned for lands beyond Herring River.”
In 1699, “the Grammar Schoolmaster” was voted £10; “he to
teach reading, writing and arithmetic.”
In 1700, it was “ ordered that the selectmen see that the meet-
ing-house is ground-pinned and the windows mended.” — Towns-
men admitted were
John Blackwell,	Gideon Hoxie,	Eben. Wing,
Nathan Bourne,	Sami. Perry Jr.,	Jashub Wing.
Joseph Holway,	Jireh Swift,
Mr. Thos. Smith d. this year, Dec. 9. He was town-treasurer.2
1	Mr. Fessenden’s letter has it, “Nov. 28, 1694, after much discussion
and trouble, the Rev. Mr. C. was ord. by laying on the hands of Revs.
John Cotton Jr., Ichabod Wiswall, and Jona. Russell. Cotton gave the
charge, and Wiswall the right hand of fellowship.”
2	Mr. Thomas Smith, b. 1664, was the 8th s. of Rev. John Smith. By
his wife Abigail who m. 2d Col. Melatiah Bourne, he had Samuel Jan. 18,84
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1701, the sum of £10 was raised “ to pay James Battersby
the schoolmaster in the S.E. end of the town.”—“John Bradford,
and Wm. Shurtleff, two of the selectmen of Plym., and James War-
ren agent; with Wm. Bassett and Dan. Allen, selectmen of Sand-
wich, being app. to settle the bounds between the two towns, met
and agreed upon the same, April 9.”1 — In like manner, “ James
1688-9; John Feb. 7, 1689-90; Thomas Dec. 25, 1691; Isaac Feb. 11,
1693-4; Abigail Jan. 17, 1695-6; Rebecca Nov. 7, 1697 who m. Rev.
Benj. Fessenden, Oct. 18,1724; and Shubael Nov. 20, 1699. — Samuel,
the eldest, m. Bethia Chipman Oct. 6, 1717 and had Thomas Sept. 7, 1718;
Samuel Feb. 19, 1720; Abigail Dec. 16, 1722 who m. Sand. Thaxter of
Hing. Aug. 18, 1743 ; Bethia Dec. 10, 1724 who m. Thos. Loring of Hing.
June 2, 1743; Mary May 18, 1727 who m. Calvin Gay Esq. of Hing. Ap.
2, 1752; John Sept. 12, 1729; Rebecca July 19, 1731 who m. Elisha Bis-
by of Pembroke Aug. 2, 1750; Shubael June 10, 1733 who d. 1751; Ste-
phen May 30, 1739 who d. early; Deborah May 6, 1737 ; Stephen May 30,
1739; Lucy and Lydia, gemmae, Nov. 3, 1741, the first of whom d. ae. 3
weeks, and the other m. Joseph Loring of Hing. Oct. 27, 1763. — The
eldest of this last family, Dr. Thomas Esq., studied his profession in Hing.,
and there m. Sarah Cushing dr. of Danl.; after her d. he m. 2d, Martha
(Mayhew) Parker wid. of Sylvs. of F. and then removed to Woods Hole;
and 3d, Rachel (Doane) Bacon wid. of Judge B. of Barnstable, and dr. of
Isaiah Doane of Wellfleet. Issue : Deborah July 8, 1739 b. in Hing. and d.
Feb. 1, 1748-9; Lydia Jan. 23, 1740-1, b. in this town; Thomas Jr. Jan.
25, 1742-3 ; Sarah Dec. 3,1744, who m. Neh. Webb Dec. 30, 1762; Sam-
uel Nov. 11, 1746; Percy Sept. 25, 1748; Deborah Dec. 14, 1750, who m.
Nathl. Swift of F.; Shubael Dec. 4,1752; Daniel Sept. 27,1754; Bethia
Sept. 22, 1756, who m. Ichabod Hatch of F.; Cushing Aug. 6,1758, who m.
a dr. of Rev. John Smith of Danbury, Ct. and had Lydia who now resides at
F.; and, by 2d m., Martha who m. Calvin Morse of F. — Stephen Esq., b.
1739, s. of Samuel, m. Deborah Ellis Dec. 23,1762, and had Stephen Nov. 6,
1763; Deborah Feb. 22,1766, who m. Col. Joseph Wallis Jr.; Wm. Ellis Dec.
8, 1767; Samuel Dec. 28,1769 ; Joseph Otis Jan. 31,1772, all in this town;
when, removing to Machias, he had Jane, Lydia, Eliza. Otis, and George
Stilman. Mr. Smith was a man of much note, and d. in M. Sept. 29, 1806.
— We might write volumes containing genealogical and other interesting
data of the different branches of the descendants of Rev. John Smith; but
we must be content with brevity. We cannot forbear, however, out of
respect for that most excellent and very intelligent lady, the late Bethia Smith
(who taught us the very first rudiments, from Webster’s Spelling-book) to
make record of the family of her father, Capt. Samuel, b. 1746, who was
s. of Dr. Thomas Smith, and d. June 17, 1809. By his m. with Mercy
Sears Oct. 24, 1773, he had Mehitable July 22, 1774, who m. Jireh Phin-
ney of Machias; Deborah Ap. 10, 1777; Bethia July 10, 1781, who d.
1856 ; Mercy Sept. 23, 1783 ; and Samuel July 31,1780.
1 “ Beginning at the Picket-Clift by the Sea-side; thence running S. W.
a little more westerly by marked range-trees to a rock on the westerly side
of Herring Pond about two rods from its mouth; thence running on a
straight line to a marked pine tree standing near the southerly end of the
Little Pond below the dwelling-house of John Gibbs Jr.; and thence on a
straight line to a marked pine tree standing by the fence of the meadow of
Benj. Gibbs by the Red Brook, and so runs rounding up as the fence of sd.
meadow runs to sd. brook, and so is bounded by this brook unto the Bay
or salt water.”ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
85
Gorham and Ebenr Lewis, selectmen of Barnstable, and Wm. Bas-
sett, John Smith, and Dan. Allen, selectmen of this town, with the
help of Maj. John Thacher of Barnstable,” determined the bounds
between their respective towns, May 19.1—And u Thos. Bour-
man and Melatiah Bourne, selectmen of Sackonesset, alias Falm.,
and John Smith and Wm. Bassett, selectmen of Sandwich, met
and settled the bounds between these two towns.”2
In 1702, the town gave to Rev. Roland Cotton “ all such drift-
whales as shall, during the time of his ministry in Sandwich, be
driven or cast ashore within the limits of the town, being such as
shall not be killed with hands.” — It was voted “ to enlarge and
repair the meeting-house, the expense not to exceed £ 50.” — A
list of the freemen, as ordered June 25, was:
John Allen Sr.,	Dan. Butler,	Sami. Gifford,
John Allen Jr.,	John Chipman,	Rd. Handy,
Rich. Allen,	Roland Cotton,	Joseph Holway,
Wm. Allen,	Edw. Dillingham,	Gid. Hoxie,
John Barlow,	Hy. Dillingham,	Lud. Hoxie,
Nathan Barlow,	John Dillingham,	John Jennings,
Wm. Bassett,	Matthias Ellis,	Sami. Knott,
Neh. Bessie,	Mord. Ellis,	Sami. Lawrence,
John Blackwell,	John Fish,	Oliver Norris,
Josh. Blackwell,	Edm. Freeman Sr.,	Benj. Nye,
Mich. Blackwell,	Edm. Freeman Jr.,	Caleb Nye,
Elisha Bourne,	Benj. Gibbs,	Jona. Nye,
Nathan Bourne,	John Gibbs,	John* Nye,
Sheaij. Bourne,	Sami. Gibbs,	Nathan Nye,
Timo. Bourne,	Thos. Gibbs,	Edw. Perry,
Jacob Burge,	John Gifford,	Ezra Perry Sr.,
1	“ Beginning at a great stone set in the ground below and near the dwell-
ing-house of Jedediah Jones by an old stump, and thence running down to
the sea by a N. E. line as two stakes are set up in the meadow ranging
with sd. great stone; and then running up from sd. stone on a S. W. line
as the line was now run by Maj. Thacher 5 miles up into the woods unto a
pine tree marked on four sides, standing near to and on the northerly side
of the path that leads from the dwelling-house of Shearj. Bourne Esq. unto
the house of John Goodspeed above a deep bottom that hath a hole of
water in it; sundry range-trees being marked and some heaps of stones
laid in the range.”
2	“ Beginning at the spring near the dwelling-house of Robert Lawrence,
called Hope’s Spring, and thence running on an easterly straight line unto
the middlemost of three pine trees that stand on the S. E. side of the cart-
way that leads from Sandwich to Falmouth a little above a small pond or
hole of water that is between Ashimuet Pond, so called, and sd. cart-way,
which sd. pine tree is marked on four sides; and from that marked pine
tree to run on the same straight line to the Christian Indians’ land.”86
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
John Perry,
Sami. Perry,
Sami. Prince,
Sam. Sanderson,
Steph. Skifl?
Benj. Smith,
John Smith Sr.,
John Smith Jr.,
Shubael Smith,
Eph. Swift,
Jireh Swift,
Wm. Swift,
Gershom Tobey,
Jona. Tobey,
John Tobey,
Nathan Tobey,
Sami. Tobey,
Thos. Tobey,
Israel Tupper,
Thos. Tupper Sr.,
Danl. Wing,
Ebenr. Wing,
John Wing,
Nathl. Wing.
Sheaij. Wing,
Steph. Wing.
In 1703, it was voted to appropriate £200 “to build a new
meeting-house if found necessary.” — Townsmen ad. this year:
Danl. Allen,	John	Landers,	Sami. Swift,
John Bodfish,	Benj.	Perry,	Eldad Tupper.
Ezra Bourne,	John	Pope,
In 1704, Mr. Battersby was still teaching for £10 per annum.
—It was “ordered that £3 be paid above what is allowed by the
Province law, for every grown wolf, and 15 s. for every wolf’s
whelp, if killed within the town’s limits.”—The inscription upon
a grave-stone in the old burial-ground indicates a shipwreck this
year, near by.1 2 3 *—Zach. Jenkins was ad. townsman.
In 1705, the bounds between this town and Marshpeewere set-
tled ; “ Caleb Popmit, Acapesko, Old John, Sunkation, and Caleb
Pognit, agents of the South-sea Indians of Mashbe, and Sheaij.
Bourne, Wm. Bassett, Matthias Ellis, and Hy. Dillingham, agents
for this town,” being app. to run the line.8
1 He was s. of Mr. James Skiff, one of ths earliest settlers of the town,
who by his w. Mary who d. Sept. 21, 1673, had James Sept. 12, 1638 who
removed to the Vineyard ; Stephen Ap. 14, 1641; Nathl. Mar. 20, 1645;
Sarah Oct. 12, 1646 ; Bathsheba Ap. 20, 1648; Mary Mar. 25, 1650; Pa-
tience Mar. 25, 1652; Benj. Nov. 15, 1655; and Nathan May 16, 1658,
who prob. went to Chilmark. — Stephen Esq., by his w. Lydia who d. a
wid. Mar. 17, 1713, had Abigail May 2, 1666; Deborah July 14, 1668;
Mary Nov. 13, 1671; and Stephen Feb. 4, 1685.
* Here lyes y® body of Capt. Peter Adolph of New Yorke aged 48 years,
who dyed by shipwreck in this bay, y*5 * * 16th of March 1702-3 and was
washed on shoare 3 miles below this towne.
3 “Beginning at a pine tree marked on four sides, standing near to and
on the northerly side of the path that leads from the now dwelling house
of Sheari. Bourne Esq. unto the house of John Goodspeed above the deep
bottom that hath a hole of water in it, sundry trees being marked from the
aforesaid tree northeasterly to a red-oak sapling standing at the northerly
end of Wakpah Field, marked on two sides, with stones about it, near the
cart-way that leads from Sandwich to the house of Sheaij. Bourne Esq.;
from the above red-oak sapling to run westerly to the road that leads from
Sandwich to Falmouth, leaving the southernmost branch of Peter’s Pond
to the northward; then southerly as the road leads from Sandwich toANNALS OF SANDWICH.
87
In 1706, “a purchase was made by the town of lands, of Zach-
ariah Sias, Indian—a tract at Herring River, on the W. side of
the line run between the town and Indians’ lands; ” and it was
“ ordered that in laying out and dividing lands lying in common,
one share shall be reserved for the use forever of such as shall
hereafter be employed here in the work of the ministry by the
major part of the inhabitants.” — Mr. Elisha Bourne, s. of Mr.
Rd., d. this year; also Mr. Thos. Tupper Sr.
In 1707, “a further division was made of the 40 acre lots.” —
Leave was granted to certain persons “to box and milk two
thousand pine trees, for two yrs., £2 to be pd. to the town for
the use.” — An appropriation of £20 was made to secure the
services of Mr. Thos. Prince “ to instruct the children in reading,
writing, arithmetic, and Latin,” and provision was made that “ they
who send shall pay £10 more.”1—The sum of 4 s. per day was
fixed upon as “ the pay of the town’s representatives in Gen.
Court.” — The town engaged to pay for wolves £4 “ in addition
to wbat is provided by law.”
In 1708, it was “ agreed in town-meeting that the person who
takes care of the meeting-house shall ring the bell.” And further
—probably in consequence of representations made to the Gen.
Ct. and its action on the same — that in future Mr. Cotton shall
have £70 pr. annum, and £20 for fire-wood and to enable him to
fence the ministerial lands.”
In 1709, “ the sum of £20 and his diet” was voted to the school-
master, “ he to board round.”
In 1710, Mr. Samuel Jennings was the school-master. He was
voted £20, and it was provided “that those who send shall pay
additional and board.”2 — It was “ voted to raise the window seats
Falm. aforesaid till it comes to a pine tree standing at the westerly side of
Ashimuet Pond which is the bound between the towns of Falmouth and
Sandwich; the Indians to have, hold and enjoy all the lands to the south-
ward and eastward of the abovesaid line forever; and the town of Sand-
wich to have, hold and enjoy all the lands lying northward and westward
of the abovesaid bounds.”
1 It may be unnecessary to remark that Mr. Prince to whom reference is
here made, was the same who afterwards became the minister of the Old
South Church in Boston—the noted author of the New England’s Annals.
* It is impossible, after much investigation, to give so satisfactory ac-
count as we would wish, of the Jennings family. Mitchell says, “Rd.
put himself apprentice to Rt. Bartlett of Plym. 1635 for 9 yrs.; ” also that
Rd. of Bridgw. had a legacy in Frs. Godfrey’s will 1666, and was called
“ kinsman by Wm. Bassett Jr. of Sandwich 1694; ” and he supposes “ that
Rd. who d. in B. 1751, perhaps from Sandwich, and whose wife was
Mary Bassett who d. 1734, was from the above.” Mr. Savage says, “ Rich-
ard was some time in Sandwich.” Mr. Baylies says, “ Samuel came from
Eng., a town called Bennister, and settled in Sandwich; had a bro. who88
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
of the west gallery of the meeting-house.” — Also “ voted to grant
liberty to Mr. Nathaniel Otis to set a house on the commons near
Peter Newcomb’s — somewhere between sd. Newcomb’s house
and the mill.”1
sailed out of Eng., a captain in the merchant-service ; and that, after the
decease of that brother, Samuel went to Eng. to recover the estate, but was
impressed on board a ship of war, and in attempting to escape in one of
the W. India ports lost a hand and foot—bitten off by a shark;” and
that he was then “ 19 yrs. of age.” All this is very circumstantial, and
chiefly correct; for, on referring to Hon. Francis Bassett who is a lineal
descendant from this Samuel Jennings Esq., we learn that the escape from
a man-of-war by swimming and the loss of limbs consequent upon it, were
not only subject of family tradition, but he recollects having had in his pos-
session a published account of the adventure, as communicated by Mr. Jen-
nings to Rev. Dr. Stillman. — From the Sandwich records, we find that Mr.
John Jennings is mentioned in the list of freemen in 1702; and that, by
his wife Susanna, his children were a daughter (name illegible) b. Sept.
17, 1668, who prob. was Remember who m. Joseph Buck, his 2d wife, Sept.
20, 1686; Anne b. 8 mo. 17, 1670; John 3, 12, 1673, by wife Ruhaman;
a son, (name illeg., but) prob. Isaac, July 3, 1677 ; Elizabeth Ap. 4, 1680
who d. Sept. 13, 1682; and Samuel Feb. 28, 1684-5. And this last was,
doubtless, the person whose adventures are narrated. If so, he was
prob. not born in England as has been generally supposed. The family
prob. came over early; and John was, it is inferred, the mariner who d. in
the merchant-service. —Mr. Samuel Jennings probably devoted himself
to the acquisition of a superior education in consequence of his being
maimed. He was the Grammar School-master in 1710, selectman 1712,
representative 1714, 17, 21, town clerk 1721-51, town treas. 1719-51, sur-
veyor of lands, trader, and possessed of large estate. He m. Remember
Smith, dr. of Shubael and grand dr. of Rev. John, Jan. 20, 1713, who d.
Jan. 25, 1717, and then m. 2d Deborah . . . who d. Feb. 10,1753. He
d., according to Baylies, May 13,1764, ae. abt 80. His children were Lydia,
Feb. 6, 1714, who m. Nathan Bourne -of Scituate Sept. 6, 1733, both of
whom d. in Hanover 1739; Ruhamah May 1,1716, a woman of fine educa-
tion, who m. Elisha Bassett Oct. 11, 1739; Samuel Sept. 9, 1727; Esther
Ap. 29,1731, who m. Jabez Tupper Feb. 14,1759; and John Sept. 3,1734. —
Isaac m. 1st Rose Goodspeed, July 10,1700, who d. Dec. 21,1721, by whom
he had Elizabeth Ap. 12,1701, who m. Isaac Howland May 14, 1719; Ex-
perience Mar. 10, 1703, who m. Josiah Ryder of Plym. Oct. 22, 1722; John
July 31, 1706; Rose 1710 who m. John Ellis Jr. Feb. 4, 1731; Isaac Ap.
24, 1714; Mary Sept. 1, 1717; Benj. Dec. 12,1720; and by 2d m. to Han-
nah, had Hannah Ap. 21, 1725; Lois Feb. 7, 1727; and Eunice May 25,
1729. — John, son of Isaac, m. Anne Holway Oct. 3, 1727, and had Avis
Ap. 11,1730. The last two families prob. resided in Plym. County. — John
of Sandwich, son of Mr. Samuel, m. Hannah Sturgis Ap. 19, 1759, and
had Deborah Dec. 7, 1760; Samuel Nov. 15, 1762, who went to Maine and
m. Olive Tupper in Winthrop 1785; John Feb. 9, 1765, who also removed
to Me.; Hannah Aug. 1766; Bathsheba Aug. 27, 1768; and Sarah Ap. 2,
1770. The father d. and the widow m. Dea. Thos. Bassett Mar. 15, 1775. —
The Jennings family, long time prominent and highly respectable in this
town, has become extinct here; but lands are still called after their name.
The families first mentioned and those recorded in S., may have been of the
same stock; but the records of Duxbury which was the parent town of
Bridgewater having been all destroyed by fire prior to 1654, it is now im-
possible to determine with certainty.
1 Mr. Nathaniel Otis was 2d s. of Col. John, and bro. of Col. James 1st.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
89
In 1711, “Mr. James Dorr was employed as a school-master”
with a salary of £20. — Mr. Thomas Tobey d. Jan. 9.
In 1712, “ Mr. Samuel Osborn lately of Edgartown, was em-
ployed at a salary of £25;” and Mr. Jennings was also “still
employed.” This seems to have been the dawn of an age of im-
provement in respect to schools.
In 1713, it was “voted to pay Mr. Osborn £60, in bills of cred-
it, per annum, for three years; he to teach in addition to the usual
branches, Latin and Greek, and make three removes each year, i. e.
teaching in the centre four months, in Scusset four, and in Spring-
Hill four, each yr., those who send to pay to the town for pupils
in reading alone 3 s. per week, writing additional 5 s., reading,
writing, and arithmetic 6 s., and Latin and Greek 8 s., — children
from other towns to be admitted.”1 — A greater effort to sustain
1 Mr. Samuel Osborn is the same gent, who was subsequently settled
in the ministry at Eastham, continuing from 1718 to 1737, and who is
reported as having d. long after “ in Boston, ae. above 90.” He was b. in
Ireland, of Scottish parents, and grad. Univ. Dublin. He was a fine scholar.
His son John, b. in Sandwich 1713, grad. H. C. 1735, was alsoamanof fine
scholastic attainments. He has been pronounced “ a lively genius.” Dis-
playing in college “ great talents for mathematical investigations,” he
acquired also some poetic celebrity. His “ whaling song ” was long famil-
iar with seamen, and we present it as a reminiscence of a Sandwich boy’s
attempt to court the Muse:
“ When Spring returns with western gales, And gentle breezes sweep
The ruffling seas, we spread our sails To plow the wat’ry deep;
For killing northern whales prepar’d, Our nimble boats on board
With craft and rum (our chief regard,) And good provisions stor’dj
Cape Cod, our dearest,* native land, We leave astern, and lose
Its sinking cliffs and lessening sands* Whilst Zephyr gently blows.
Bold, haray men, with blooming age, Our sandy shores produce;
With monstrous fish they dare engage, And dangerous callings choose.
Now towards the early dawning East, We speed our course away
With eager minds and joyful hearts, To meet the rising day ;
Then as we turn our wond’ring eyes, We view one constant show;
Above, around, the circling skies, The rolling seas below.
When eastward, clear of Newfoundland, We stem the frozen pole,
We see the icy islands stand, The northern billows roll.
As to the North we make our way, Surprising scenes we find ;
We lengthen out the tedious day, And leave the night behind $
We see the northern regions where Eternal winter reigns,
One day and night fills up the year, And endless cold maintains j
We view the monsters of the deep, Great Whales in numerous swarms,
And creatures there that play and leap, Of strange, unusual forms.
When in our station we are placed, And whales around us play,
We launch our boats into the main, And swiftly chase our prey.
In haste we ply our nimble oars, For an assault designed;
The sea beneath us foams and roars, And leaves our wake behind;
A mighty whale we rush upon, And in our irons throw :
She sinks her monstrous body down Among the depths below;
But when she rises out again, We soon renew the fight,
Thrust our sharp lances m amain, And all her rage excite.
Enraged, she makes a mighty bound, Thick foams the whiten’d sea,
The waves in circles rise around, And wid’ning roll away.
From numerous wounds, with crimson flood She stains the frothy seas,
And gasps, and blows her latest blood, While quiv’ring life decays.
With joyful hearts we see her die And on the surface lay
While all with eager haste apply To save our deathful prey.”
This song is said to be much excelled by his “ elegy on the death of a
young sister,” preserved in the ‘ Boston Mirror.* — After completing his
VOL. n.	1290
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
schools of high grade, was accompanied by other favorable symp-
toms ; an order was passed directing the selectmen “ to get the
glass of the meeting-house mended, shutters for the windows,
door-latches mended, and provide a lock.” An appropriation was
also made “ for a turret on the meeting-house.”
In 1714, the town had some trouble by reason of discontent
among the Indians in regard to the lands they had ceded; and
the selectmen were required to go to Plym. “ to defend the town’s
title against Indian claims.”
Of 1715, except the decease of Mr. Mordecai Ellis, an aged
and respected citizen, there is nothing notable. The only inci-
dent we can gather is that u the town was presented at the Court
of Sessions for not having a pound.”—And all that we can relate
of 1716 is, that Rev. Mr. Cotton was voted “ the privilege of pas-
turing his horse in the burying-ground—he to fence it in, joining
each end of the fence to the mill-pond.”
In 1717, the subject of “ a fence from Picket Clift1 to Way-
quansett Bay, to keep the wolves from coming into the county,”
was agitated, and the plan was thought to be highly important.
The town clerk was instructed “ to confer with the several towns
on the Cape ” to ascertain “ if they will respectively furnish their
proportion of £ 500 to make a good board fence of more than
six ft. high;” and the clerk was directed to “promise in behalf
collegiate course, young Osborn joined his father in Eastham, and assayed
a preparation for the clerical office. In due time, he was permitted to
deliver his trial-sermon before the assembled clergy of the county. All
admitted that the production was ingenious, but as unanimously adjudged
it not perfectly orthodox. It should, in justice, be said that the young man
studied theology not from choice, but to please his father to whose aspi-
rations only the result was a disappointment. The son then turned his
attention to medicine, with greater success. He m. a Miss Doane of Chat-
ham, and removed to Middletown, Ct., where he d. May 31,1753, ae. 40. He
was not only distinguished as a physician, but also as a chemist. He had
six children, of whom John b. Mar. 17, 1741, was especially distinguished,
preeminent as a physician, and died in Middletown 1825. A son of this
last, John C., b. 1766, was the noted physician of Newbem, N. C.; after-
wards, 1807, Prof, of Med. in Columbia College, and subsequently in the
N. Y. Col. of Physicians and Surgeons, and d. at the island St. Croix, 1819.
— The tomb-stone of the Dr. John . b. in Sandwich, stills stands in the
ancient burying-place at M., and shews the following: “ Here is interred
the mortal remains of Doctor John Osborn. Ask nothing further, travel-
ler ; nothing better can be said, nothing shorter. Ob. 31 May, 1753, JE.
40. Life how short, Eternity how long!99 The monument on -which is
this engraving, had formerly a very pompous inscription furnished by one
of the executors; but when the son came of age, he had the whole effaced
and the above substituted.
1 We follow the record; whether this was the ancient name, or whether
Peaked Cliff was intended, we are unable to say.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
91
of this town that whatever the fence shall cost more than £500
shall be borne by this town alone.” Falm. acceded to the propo-
sition ; the rest declined. In this dilemma, the town’s represen-
tative was “instructed to apply to the Gen. Ct. for an Act requir-
ing the towns below, in consideration of the great'destruction of
sheep by wolves, to bear their part of the expense of a fence
across the isthmus, sufficient to exclude wolves.” It is hardly
necessary to say the application was unsuccessful. The scheme
was not so visionary as many later enterprises; but local interests
were supposed to conflict.—Leave was granted to sundry persons
“ to set up a saw-mill upon the brook at Spring Hill; ” to others
to build a dam across Scusset harbor to prevent the overflow of
the meadows; ”1 and to others “ to set up a saw-mill at Herring
River, somewhere between the grist-mill and the pond’s mouth ”
— under certain restrictions.
Until the year 1718, large quantities of herring had been taken
from the river, for fertilizing the soil; the whole surplus exceed-
ing the quantity required for food: it was now “ ordered that no
herrings shall be taken in future to * fish corn.’ ”
In 1719, Mr. Jacob Btjbge died, Mar. 17.2
1	The remains of this dike are yet to be seen. It is not impossible or
improbable that the project may be in part revived at some day, of closing
the entire meadows south of the principal creek, from the action of the sea.
These marshes, if permitted to be overflowed in winter only, would be of
great value as cranberry bogs ; or might be converted into English meadows.
2	Mr. Jacob Burge {Burgess is, by corruption, the modem name) was
a prominent citizen, son of Mr. Thomas Burge who was in S. in 1637, dep-
uty 1646, &c., and d. Feb. 27, 1685, ae. 82. Jacob m. Mary, dr. Benj. Nye,
June 1, 1660, and had Samuel Mar. 8, 1671; Ebenr.-Oct. 2, 1673; Jacob
Oct. 18, 1676; and Thomas Mar. 29, 1680; perhaps others. — Jacob, son
of Jacob, by his wife Mary, had Zaccheus Mar. 9, 1704-5; Jedidah July
29, 1706, who m. Thos. Phillips of Dux. Dec. 4, 1729; Abia Ap. 14, 1708;
Abigail June 29,1709; Samuel Nov. 2, 1711; and Jacob Nov. 9, 1715.—
Zaccheus, eldest son of Jacob 2d, by his wife Temperance who d. Dec.
8, 1748, had Josiah who removed to Fairfield, Me.; Thomas (called by dis-
tinction “ Honest Tommy ”) who also went to Me.; Elisha 1743; and
Jedida 1745, who m. Eleazar Blackwell Dec. 8, 1763. —Elisha, of the last
family, m. Hannah Nye of Falm., and had Betsey 1774 who prob. m.
Elisha Gibbs 1797; Elisha; Abia Feb. 11, 1776; Benjamin Aug. 26,
1778; Rebecca Nov. 22,, 1781, who m. Thos. Ellis; Hannah Feb. 6, 1783;
Jacob Sept. 19, 1786 '; Hephzibah Ap. 5, 1788 who m. Sami. Harlow of
Mid.; and Anson Dec. 2, 1791, who m. Mary* Crocker. Mr. Elisha
Burgess d. Nov. 10, 1832, se. 89. — Benjamin Esq., of the last family,
m. Mary, dr. of Mr. Clark Swift, June 3, 1804, who d. Jan. 29, 1861,
SB. 78; and their issue was Adaline June 20, 1805, who m. Nathan B.
Gibbs and d.; Mary Sept. 2, 1807, who m. 1st, Hirah Ellis, 2d, Enos
Briggs ; Thomas T. Feb. 10, 1810, who m. Achsah Gibbs, and d. July 18,
1834; Eliza Swift Mar. 24,1813, who m. N. B. Gibbs ; Hephzibah Feb. 7,
1816, who m. Dr. Alanson Abbe; Benj. Franklin Sept. 6, 1818, who m.92
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1720, Mr. John Rogers was employed as school-master.1
In 1721, “Maj. Bourne, Stephen Skiff, and Edw. Dillingham,
were app. trustees for receiving the town’s proportion of the pub-
lic loan; ” and it was “ ordered that no individual shall receive of
the same more than £50, nor at less than 6 pr. ct. int.” — Col.
Wii. Basset, chief Marshal and Reg. Prob., d. Sept. 29, se. 65.
In 1722, the town was deprived of the valuable and
faithful services of the Rev. Roland Cotton who died
March 29.2 A letter of condolence and sympathy was
addressed to the people by the united act of the minis-
ters in the county, containing advice appropriate to the
circumstances of the town. The letter was read in town-
meeting, and the meeting unanimously “ voted to accept
the advice of the ministers.” Major Melatiah Bourne,
William Bassett, and Eliakim Tupper of the church,
and Ezra Bourne, John Blackwell, and Stephen Skiff
of the congregation, were chosen a “ committee to sup-
ply the pulpit” In the course of the year, a com-
mittee was appointed “ to treat with Madam Elizabeth
Cotton for the purchase of her dwelling-house and
lands for the settlement of a minister; ” and the town
concurred with the church in calling Mr. Benjamin Fes-
Cordelia dr. of Capt. Abner Ellis; and Caroline Beal Mar. 1, 1821, who
m. Fred. W. Sawyer Esq. of Boston, Sept. 18, 1849. Benjamin Burgess
Esq. was many years representative from this town, and has filled various
offices, but is distinguished especially as an enterprising and successful
merchant.
1	Mr. Rogers had by his wife Ann, Armemaryvetta Feb. 26, 1719 —
(the giving of such a name is almost presumptive of pedagoguism ;) Wil-
liam May 28, 1721; and Kathrine 1725, who m. Zebulon Wing. — “ Lt.
Joseph” was in S. early. — Mr. Sami. Osborn, who preceded Mr. Rogers,
was not only a fine scholar, but a ready debater, as we infer from the journal
of Benj. Holme, an English minister of the Friends, who visited this town
in 1715 at the time of ‘yearly meeting/ and soon after published an
account of “ Travels in America,” in which he recounts “ a dispute with one
Sami. Osborne a school-master.” Lest Mr. O. should be unduly censured
for taking up the gauntlet in Friends* meeting, it is but proper to state
that his doing so is not subject of complaint on the part of Mr. H. who
says that he himself had held a similar disputation at a Presbyterian meet-
ing at Nantucket, also with Timo. Ruggles at Sippecan, as also in many
other places. Nor did Mr. H. find New England alone opposed to his
views; for, going to Virginia, he says he “ was opposed and persecuted
there.”
2	See Vol. I. 361.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
93
senden to the pastorate.1 The salary voted was “ £90,
besides the use of parsonage lands and meadows; for a
settlement in addition £250.” Mr. F. was ord. Sept. 12.
—In making legal assessments it was necessary to include the
whole town; but the kind and tolerant feeling that now happily
prevailed, is seen in the fact that it was soon voted that “ the
interest of the town’s Loan-money, shall be appropriated to pay
the ministerial tax laid on the people called Quakers; the balance
to be paid out of the town treasury, and thus from year to year.”2
In 1723, Mr. James Stewart d., Oct. 30.3
In 1724, Maj. Bourne was app. “ to answer for the town at Barn-
stable #court, to the presentment cfor not having a school-master
approbated according to law.’ ” 4
In 1726, it was voted “ to build a poor-house between the town’s
pound and mill-river.”—In 1727, the Act having passed for a new
issue of Bills of Credit, the town received its proportion from the
Provincial treasury, “ to be loaned to the inhabitants on good real
or personal est. security; to no one more than £20.” — And in
1729, a com. was chosen “to answer the presentment cfor not
having a minister settled and qualified according to law.’ ” 5
In 1730, Mr. John Rogers was still, as for some time after, in the
1	Mr. Fessenden’s memoranda say: “June 26, 1722, the day of my
election and call.”
2	This, to be sure, was not an entire exemption of the Friends, but was
a compromise that qualified the extent of grievance.
3	Mr. Stewart, (or Stuart,) by his wife Desire had Seth Ap. 2, 1690;
Abigail June 4, 1692; Gamaliel Mar. 15, 1694-5; Mary July 22, 1698;
James Feb. 24, 1700—1; Mehitable Ap. 10, 1704; Sylvanus Mar. 19, 1706.
—	Seth m. Sarah Weeks June 14, 1716, had a family and d. Jan. 4,1751-2.
—	Gamaliel m. Alice Gibbs Sept. 23,1724, and had Lemuel Dec. 29, 1725;
Bruce May 20, 1728; Mehit. Aug. 4, 1730; Seth Ap. 2, 1733; Gamaliel
Oct. 28,1735; and James May 22, 1738. — James m. Mehit. Spooner Aug.
30, 1733, and had Mehit. July 17, 1735, and removed to the Vineyard.
4	It was necessary that school-masters be approbated by the magistrates,
and such approbation was sometimes withheld for reasons not satisfactory
to the people. — We cannot infer, from all the data before us, that the
position of the minister was without its trials. Mr. Fessenden makes a
mem. Oct. 24,1724, of certain members having “ gone to Barnstable to
receive the sacrament,” and of “ a solemn transaction, Feb. 23, 1725,” by
which members were “ bound to a united worship.”
5	It is very evident that difficulties of some kind existed in the church,
and that these were culminating for a rupture will hereafter appear. The
union of church and state, in an important sense, was still intimate. Minis-
ters not ‘ approbated ’ by the public authorities, were sure to find their path
beset with thorns. The proceedings of a people in the settlement of a min-
ister, must be had with ail due deference to the powers supreme, or trouble
was inevitable. The presentment, in this instance, was founded on allega-
tions of the disaffected, and, the record of Court says,was “ quashed”94
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
town’s service as a school-master. The relative population at this
period, of different parts of the town, is shown by the arrangements
for the school: u first at Peter’s-Pond four months; then at Spring-
Hill five mos.; Centre twelve mos.; Scusset five mos.; Pocasset
three mos.; and Manomet three mos., in succession.”1
1 According to Mr. Fessenden's mem., Mar. 1730, there were 136
families in the town, besides Friends or Quakers. He gives that number
of “ Heads of Fam.” We will not give them alphabetically, but follow
his own arrangement, as it probably indicates their localities:
“ Joseph Lawrance,
Sami. Lawrance,
Sami. Swift,
Eph. Swift & Sarah his w.,
Moses Swift,
Hannibal Handy,
Isaac Handy,
John Handy,
Nathl. Wing,
Cornelius Handy,
Zachs. Handy,
Wid. Wing,
ltd. Handy,
Ebenr. Wing,
Nathan Barlow,
Peleg Barlow&Eliza. his w.,
SamL Swift Jr.,
Jona. Tobey,
John Perry Jr.,
Elijah Perry,
Sami. Perry,
John Perry,
Elisha Perry,
Ezra Perry,
Benj. Perry,
Benj. Perry Jr.,
Abner Perry,
Sami. Perry Jr.,
Wid. Perry,
Ezra Perry Jr.,
Nathan Bourne and Mary
his w.,
Eleazar Bourne,
Benj. Gibbs,
Jona. Bourne,
Deacon Tim. Bourne and
Temp, his w.,
Tim.Perry & Desire his w.,
John Ellis & Sarah his w.,
Wid. Morton,
JosiahEllis & Sarah his w.,
Josiah Swift,
Jireh Swift,
Joseph Swift,
Jabez Swift & Abigail his w.
Wid. Gibbs,
John Blackwell and Lydia
Thos. Gibbs Sr.,
Thos. Gibbs Jr.,
Sami. Gibbs Sr.,
Sami. Gibbs Jr.,
Jacob Burge,
Sami. Blackwell,
Medad Tupper,
Micah Blackwell,
Joshua Blackwell,
Joshua Blackwell Jr.,
Joshua Blackwell 3d,
Thos. Burges,
Lt. Matthias Ellis Sr.,
Malachi Ellis,
Eldad Tupper,
Eliakim Tupper,
Dea. Israel Tupper & w.
Sami. Tupper, [Eliza.,
Seth Stewart,
Seth Fish,
Matthias Ellis Jr.,
John Bodfish,
Isaac Jennings,
Wid. Pope,
Seth Pope Jr.,
Gamaliel Stewart,
Lt. Wm. Bassett,
John Freeman,
Wm. Newcomb and Bath,
his w.,
Seth Pope Sr.,
Bd. Essex,
John Foster,
John Chipman,
Nathan Nye Jr.,
Joseph Foster,
Cornelius Gibbs,
Ezra Bourne Esq.,
Ebenr. Howland,
Joseph Hatch,
John Tobey Sr.,
Tohn Tobey Jr.,
Eleazar Tobey,
Bd. Garrett,
Nathl. Fish,
SamL Barber,
John Barlow,
Sami. Barlow,
Nathan Tobey,
Wm. Tobey,
Edw. Dillingham Sr.,
Cornelius Tobey,
Sami. Tobey,
Gershom Tobey,
Seth Tobey,
Col. Melh. Bourne,
Silas Bourne,
Simeon Dillingham,
Joseph Nye Sr.,
Ebenr. Perry,
Sami. Jennings,
Sami. Smith,
John Smith,
Capt. Stephen Skiff,
Bd. Landers,
Peleg Nye,
Ebenr. Nye,
John Landers,
Benj. Freeman,
Wid. Freeman,
Wm. Freeman,
James Atkins,
John Vilking,
Edm. Freeman,
John Fish Sr.,
John Fish Jr.,
Tim. Nye,
Jona. Nye,
Joseph Nye,
Benj. Nye,
SamL Saunders,
Shubael Jones,
Nathan Nye,
Samuel Nye,
Sylv. Gibbs,
Fllkanah Smith,
Balph Jones Jr.,
Nathan Landers,
SoL Davis,
Thos. Hicks.”ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
95
That a very considerable disaffection was manifest in
the church at this time, appears from the town records,
but especially from Mr. Fessenden’s copies of letters
and other memorandums, as well as from transient
documents.1 Church meetings, councils, and remon-
strances, succeeded each other, and much unquiet is
noticeable.2 Many attempts were made to restore
unity, but without success.
In 1731, a committee was chosen by the town “to
answer in General Court the petition of Mr. Eldad
Tupper made in behalf of the disaffected portion of
the church.”3
1 The following letter addressed by Hon. Mel. Bourne to Mr. Fessenden,
Boston, Feb. 1730, is before us: “I have been to wait on Mr. Prince to
know what the Assoc, did yesterday on our affair, and he saith that they all
agree that Mr. Ellis hath broke in upon the Constitution of our churches,
and he hath sent a letter to them to justify his conduct, and saith that
what they had done ought to stand gooa until reversed by another council ;
but the Assoc, are not of his mind; more especially because he took a
wrong step, &c.; and they have chose a committee to draw up something
to send to Mr. Ellis to show him his error in his late proceedings at Sandw.,
and was about to send to him in another manner, but thought to use gen-
tleness.”
The copy retained by Mr. F. of another letter, addressed by himself to
Bov. Mr. Weld, Sab. Morn., May 24, 1730, opens as follows: “ I am this
morning informed that you are come to preach to a part of the church in
this place who have separated themselves,” &c. &c. He objects to the
proceeding as irregular &c.; and closes: “ These are therefore to invite
you to the public pulpit to-day, to carry on all the pub. services of the day,
that so yours may be a joint worship which will be most pleasing to God
and acceptable to all good men.” — A similar letter was addressed to Mr.
Ward Cotton, subsequently, and closes by saying, “Therefore out of
respect to the memoir of your good father, &c. I shall concede to your hav-
ing the use of the public pulpit this coming Sabbath,” &c. &c.
* Reference is made to a Council assembled June 1729, and to a Council
to be convened Oct. 1730, both called by the disaffected; and a memorial
to the last from Mr. F. and the church, is before us. But it is impossible
to understand the true causes of dissatisfaction.
3 It is difficult at this remote period to apprehend precisely the position
of Mr. Tupper. That he was a member of the ancient church in S. is evi-
dent; and that he was at this time exercising his ministry among the
Indians. Tradition says “ he was a minister,” and records made by him of
marriages and baptisms, show that at least from 1717 to 1746 he was
employing himself in ecclesiastical functions. With the exception of two
entries, the rite of baptism was performed only among the Indians, as were
all the instances of the solemnization of marriages. The exceptions are:
u 1726, — Martha Tupper and Jedidah Tupper were p. baptized; ” and
u 1745, May 12, Jedidah Burge the dr. of Zacheus Burge was baptized—all
by me, Eldad Tupper, Pastor of the Indian Church.”96
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1732, the town voted £110 “ for repairs of the
meeting-house, and for the minister’s salary; ” also
£80 for schools. — That the erection of a meeting-
house, was now determinately contemplated by the
opponents of the regular minister of the town, indicates
that for a time at least the division of the town by
religious differences is inevitable.1 — Mr. Samuel Gibbs
Sr. died Nov. 19.
In 1733, the selectmen were app. in conjunction “ with Izak
Simon, Matt. Richard, James Hamblin Jr., and Izak Simon Jr.,
Indian agents, to settle once more the bounds between the town
and the South-sea Indians.” — Mr. Thos. Gibbs Sr. d. this year,
Jan. 7. — In 1734, a com. was app. “ to see if the miller will bet-
ter serve the town.”
A petition was presented, Feb. 5, “ from certain per-
sons disaffected towards the minister, to be released
from paying for his support and to be set off as a dis-
tinct precinct.” It was refused “ on the ground that
the petitioners are widely scattered, and in all make
less than 20 families; ” and it was voted by the town
that “ the return of the disaffected is the only way to
restore our ancient glory of unity and peace.” But
1 The following document found among Mr. Eldad Tupper’s papers, we
copy: — “ Whereas we Jirah Swift and Eliakim Tupper of Sandwich have
received two promissory notes of a number of the dissatisfied, namely,
Eldad Tupper, Joshua Blackwell Jr., Thomas Smith, Samuel Blackwell,
Thomas Swift, William Swift the younger, Zacheus Burge, Josiah Swift,
Mordecai Blackwell, Ichabod Smith, Jacob Burge, in which notes they
promise to pay us each and every man of them the sum affixed to his name,
that is to say: the sd. Eldad Tupper £ 24, the sd. Joshua Blackwell Jr. £4,
the sd. Thomas Smith £ 4, the sd. Sami. Blackwell £ 8, the sd. Wrm. Swift
the younger £1.4, the sd. Thomas Swift £4, the sd. Zacheus Burge £4,
the sd. Josiah Swift £ 10, the sd. Mord. Blackwell £1.4, the sd. Ichabod
Smith £1.4, the sd. Jacob Burge £8 : all amounting to the sum of £69.
12: Know ye, that we, the sd. Jirah Swift and Eliakim Tupper, do hereby
promise that in case we do not lay out the sd. sum or sums in buying or
procuring boards, clapboards, shingles, and work for enclosing and finishing
the meeting-house, then the sd. notes to be void and of none effect, or to
be returned to them again: Otherwise to stand and remain in full force
and virtue, as witness our hands this 13th day of April, A. D. 1732.
Jireh Swift.
Eliakim Tupper.”ANNALS OP SANDWICH.
97
these troubles were not so to terminate.1 A Council
“ of Rev. Elders and messengers ” was convened Oct.
30, at the new meeting-house of the disaffected to
organize a church. To this proceeding objection was
made by the pastor and church, and an earnest protest
and relation of facts were sent in. This application of
the disaffected seems to have been unsuccessful; for
In 1735, another “Council having been called to
assist in forming a new church, and to ordain a pastor
over it, the inhabitants in town-meeting assembled
March 11, and provided a remonstrance to be sent in
to the Council when assembled the next day March 12.2
A committee was also appointed to appear before the
1	Justice to Rev. Mr. Fessenden requires us to say, that he seems to
have evinced a commendable desire for peace. Several overtures to the
disaffected discover much fairness and a Christian spirit, much “ grief for
the separation and differences,” and a “hearty desire to have love and
union restored.”
2	The remonstrance is as follows : “ Whereas, it is ordained and enacted
by the supreme authority of this Province, that the inhabitants of each town
within this Province shall take due care from time to time to be constantly
provided of an able learned orthodox minister or ministers of good conver-
sation to dispense the word of God unto them.
“And whereas it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid that the re-
spective churches in the several towns within the Province shall at all times
hereafter use, exercise, and enjoy all their privileges and freedoms respecting
divine worship, church order and discipline, and shall be encouraged in the
peaceable and regular profession and practice thereof. And whereas it is
provided and ordained that in such towns and places where there is no
church gathered, the ratable inhabitants of such town or place at a meet-
ing duly warned for that purpose by the major part of such assembly then
and there met, with the advice of three neighboring ordained ministers
shall choose and call an orthodox, learned, and pious person to dispense
the word of God unto them. Upon these laws, and we observe that by
such a proceeding as above referred to, (forming a new church and ordain-
ing a pastor,) the supreme authority of the Province will be oppugned, the
rights and privileges of this town will be invaded, the laws of the Province
will be eluded, the good order of the churches as directed by law in calling
and settling their ministers will be overthrown, and an example so toler-
ated and followed will threaten confusion and disorder to all the churches
and towns in the Province. We, therefore, the inhabitants of Sandwich,
as aforesaid, in faithfulness to our church and town, and to all the churches
and towns in the Province, do bear this our seasonable and just testimony
against Mr. Francis Wooster as disturbing the peace and order of this
town and church in contempt and defiance of the aforesaid laws, and
against that small number of our neighbors who are thus endeavoring in
an illegal manner to separate from that minister and meeting-house by law
established.”
VOL. II.
1398
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
General Court in pursuance of the remonstrance. Mr.
Francis Wooster1 was, however, ordained pastor of a
new church then and there organized, and the new
meeting-house at Scusset was henceforward the scene
of his labors for many years.
The representative to the Gen. Ct. was instructed by the town
to ask “ for a grant of lands for the support of schools in the town.”
— The settlement of the Indian bounds, was “confirmed by the
court Nov. 27, and consented to by Gov. Belcher.”
In 1786, the town “ ordered that sheep-yards be erected in differ-
ent parts of the town; ” also w that all sheep be marked: ” all which
was approved by the court. — Mr. William Newcomb d. Ap. 8.2
1	Rev. Francis Wooster was 2d son of Frs. b. in Rowley, who was s.
of Sami. b. in England and came with his f. Rev. Wm. 1638-40 and became
pastor of the ch. in Salisbury. The name is still written Wooster in Ct.,
but is Worcester generally elsewhere. Rev. Francis was b. in Bradford
June 7, 1698, where he lived until 1722, and then in Concord and after-
wards in Littleton, in which latter places he worked as a blacksmith. In
1728 he was one of the selectmen of Bradford; then resided in Boxford
where he was licensed to preach, after which he came to Sandwich and was
ord. June 18, 1735 “ over a church that separated ten years before from the
ancient parish and continued one year subsequent to his dismission.” He
then went to Exeter, N. H.; thence to Plaistow; thence to Hollis 1750
where he d. Oct. 4, 1783. “ Employed the greater part of his ministry as
an Evangelist ” in the destitute parts of N. H. and other sections of N.
Eng. “ Confined in weakness and in his 60th yr., he wrote a series of
‘Meditations in Verse1 which were pub. in Boston 1760.”—By m. with
Abigail Carlton of Rowley Ap. 18, 1720 who d. July 25, 1774 ae. 78, he had
Francis Mar. 30, 1721; Jesse Sept. 5, 1722; Hannah Oct. 7, 1724, all b. in
Bradford ; Sami. May 7, 1731 b. in Boxford; and Noah Sept. 23, 1735 b.
in Sandwich. — His son Francis Jr. whilst yet of S., m. Hannah Boynton
of Newbury Oct. 28, 1741 and then removed to Hollis where and at Plym.
N. H. he was a yeoman and deacon, and d. Ap. 28,1771. — The 2d. s. Jesse
m. Patience Pope of S. Mar. 26, 1745, and had Hannah Ap. 12, 1746. He
then removed to Hollis and Newbury where he had other children, and was
at the siege of Oswego, taken prisoner and d. at Montreal 1757. — The
youngest, Noah, b. in S., went with his f. to Hollis 1750, was capt. of a
company which went 1775-6 to reenforce Gen. W. at Cambridge, was jus.
pac. 40 yrs., and mem. conv. that formed the constitution of N. H.; “a
man of strong mind, sound judgment, strict integrity, a proverbially safe
counsellor, and active church member 60 yrs.” He d. Aug. 13, 1817 se. 82.
Several of his sons were eminent divines, viz. Rev. Noah Worcester D. D.,
author of “ Bible News,”&c. &c.; Rev. Leonard of Peacham, Vt.; and Rev.
Samuel D. D. pastor of the Tabernacle Church, Salem, and Secretary of
A. B. C. F. M.
2	The first of this name in town, was Peter Newcomb who, “ late of
Edgartown,” m. Mercy dr. of Shubael Smith Mar. 11, 1699-1700, and had
Mercy Mar. 4, 1701; and Wm. Aug. 29, 1702.—William grad. H. C.
1722, and by his wife Bathsheba had Mercy Feb. 4, 1723 who m. John
Bassett Oct. 24, 1742 ; Desire May 21, 1725 who m. Dr. Elisha Tobey Jan.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
99
In 1737, John Landers d. Mar. 4, and Samuel Tobey Sept. 22;
the year following John Tobey Sr. d. Dec. 26, and the following
Mar. 12, John Smith.
In 1739, a com. was chosen “to enforce the Act against the
unlawful killing of deer.” Mr. Nathaniel Otis1 d. this year;
and Timo. Ruggles becomes an inhabitant.2 Mr. Edward Dilling-
ham also d. Mar. 29.
12, 1746; Peter, Sept. 4, 1726; Mary Ap. 3, 1728; Wm. Jan. 27, 1730;
Hannah June 4, 1732; Sarah Oct. 21, 1737 who m. Mr. Benj. Fessenden
Oct. 19, 1760; and Thomas June 11, 1739. — William, s. of Mr. Wm.,
had, by his w. Elizabeth, Bathsheba Feb. 23, 1763 who m. Capt. Thos. Nye
Feb. 1, 1797; Elizabeth Ap. 10, 1765 who m. Stephen Bassett Esq. Nov.
20, 1788; Rebecca July 14, 1772 who m. Capt. Allen Nye July 14, 1790;
Abigail Feb. 21, 1777 who m. Sturgis Nye May 10,1795 ; William Feb. 24,
1779; and Lemuel Sept. 19,1782.
1	See Vol. I. 273. Mr. Otis was Register of Prob., and Counsellor at
Law. His decease probably induced the stay of Mr. Ruggles in town.
Mr. Otis m. Abigail, dr. of Rev. Jonathan Russell of Barnstable Dec. 21,
1710, and his dr. Martha bom Dec. 11, 1717 m. Edmund Freeman of the
5th generation of the name in S. Aug. 7, 1736. This maternal ancestry
has suggested the Christian names of Russell and Otis in every generation
of the Freemans descended from Abigail Russell and Martha Otis.
2	The name of Timothy Ruggles appears on the town records immedi-
ately after the decease of Mr. Otis ; but he was here several years before.
Born in Rochester Oct. 11, 1711; grad. H. C. 1732 ; practising law in his
native town at the age of 24 yrs.; this son of the Rochester minister now
soon contrived to be elected representative from this town, (the inhabitants
of the Cape have always discovered an amiable disposition to gratify the
aspirations for office of adventurers to the exclusion of the non-imported;)
and, from being a guest at the tavern, he becomes the landlord. He has
married the widow Newcomb; but the sign of the old inn is not therefore
to come down: its post is firm enough to bear up both the advertisement
of “ Entertainment ” and Mr. Ruggles’ professional * shingle.’ He proves
himself indeed a man of vast endowments. Connecting with his law prac-
tice the duties of innkeeper, not simply the usual offices of a taverner of
olden time are his, but he personally attends both bar and stable — equally
expert whether in currying a horse, mixing a cocktail, impressing his guests
with the extent of his varied lore, conducting a case in court, or enlighten-
ing the wisdom of the legislature by his eloquence. To whatever the ver-
satility of his genius directs itself he is equally au fait He was withal
endowed with military taste,and was destined to distinguish himself in that
department also. He led, as Col., a body of troops to join Sir Wm. Johnson in
the expedition to Crown Point 1755 ; was in the battle at Lake George only
second in command ; and was three years Brig. Gen. under Lord Amherst.
— Having removed to Hardwick, besides being several years representative
from that town, two of which he was speaker, he received the appt. of Asso-
ciate Justice of the C. C. P., and was soon Chf. Just. In 1765, a delegate
with Otis and Partridge to the colonial convention, he was made President
of that body. His popularity as a politician was, however, fated to wane ;
the whigs became dissatisfied with his course, the H. of Reps, passed a vote of
censure on his conduct, and he was reprimanded from the Speaker’s chair.
His assurance, notwithstanding, never forsook him, and his brazen inso-
lence knew no bound. Shrewd as a lawyer, quick of apprehension, remark-
able for the boldness of his conceptions, of lordly though rude manners,100
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
A committee was chosen * to consider another peti-
tion of those attending on Mr. Wooster’s ministry, to
be freed from paying towards Mr. Fessenden’s salary; ”
the petitioners were Moses Swift and 33 others. The
result was adverse to the prayer.
In 1740, a bounty was offered for the heads of crows, blackbirds,
and jays.
In 1742, Samuel Wing1 had “ liberty to erect a grist-mill on
Spring-Hill River.” — The town w ordered that a passage be made
always artful in his addresses to a jury, in fact singularly sagacious and
ingenious, he was eminently qualified as a demagogue. Even when pitted
against Otis and other strong men, he had influence though detested. In
1774 he was named as a mandamus councillor and proved a determined
loyalist. Finding refuge in Boston until its evacuation, he then retired
with the royal troops to Halifax and there organized a body of “ loyal mili-
tia,” refugees, 300 strong. He d. in Nova Scotia 1798, ae. 87. With all his
faults, he was temperate. Standing some inches over 6 ft., of a dark com-
plexion, manly bearing, social, witty, with large knowledge of mankind, he
seemed through life to realize the beau ideal of his ambition — the Magnus
Apollo of his adherents. By his m. with wid. Bathsheba Newcomb 1736,
he had Martha Aug. 9, 1737; Timothy Jan. 7, 1739; Mary 1741; John
Sept. 30, 1742; Rd. Mar. 1744; Bathsheba 1746 ; and Elizabeth 1748.
Two of his sons were in the enemy’s service in the invasion of Nantucket
and in the repeated attempts to devastate this part of the country 1778-9,
as was the father in the invasion of Long Island. — This note is protracted,
not because Mr. Buggies was worthy, but inasmuch as he was a remarkable
character for a long time exerting an influence here. We will dismiss him
from further notice, with one anecdote of many related touching his career
at the bar: —An aged woman had been subpoenaed as a witness. Arriv-
ing before the court came in, and at a loss where to dispose of herself, she
inquired of one who was passing in, green bag in hand; and he directed
her to the judges’ seat. Their Honors entering soon after preceded by the
tipstaff, finding their place so quietly occupied by a dame composedly
enjoying her pinch of snuff, politely suggested to the lady to take some
other seat. She, whether by way of apology or resistance not recognizing
the judges as such, replied that she was directed to sit there. By whom?
asked the Chf. Just. She pointed to Buggies, the risibles of the bar and
spectators somewhat moved by the exposure. "She was, of course, con-
ducted respectfully by the proper officer to another part of the court-room.
The judges had not joined in the general smile; and, after taking their
seats, held a momentary conference, when the Chief sternly demanded of
Buggies his reason for such indecorum. The cool and characteristic reply
made with more than usual nonchalance, was, “ May it please your Honor,
I thought that the place for old women.”	:
1 Mr. John Wing, the ancestor of families of the name, had sons
Daniel, John, and Stephen by his wife Deborah who was the dr. of Bev.
Stephen Bachelor. John went early from this town to Yarmouth. Daniel
m. Hannah, dr. of John Swift and d. 1658-9. He had Hannah July 28,
1642; Lydia May 23, 1647; Samuel Aug. 28, 1652; Hepzibah Nov. 7,
1654; John Nov. 14, 1656; and Beulah Nov. 16, 1658. — Stephen m.
Oseah Dillingham abt. 1646-7, who d. Ap. 29, 1654, and 2d. Sarah BriggsANNALS OP SANDWICH.
101
into the pond in the Centre of the town, for herrings.”—Boxes
being provided by the Province for the drawing of jurors, and the
towns being required to conform, “ 82 names of competent per-
sons were placed in the box.” — Col. Melatiah Bourne d.
Nov. 24.
In 1743, the sum of £ 30 was added to Mr. Fessenden’s salary of
£ 90, “ on condition that he will release the persons who attend on
Mr. Wooster’s ministry, from the payment of their rates.”
In 1744, “Ebenr. Wing and 23 others of Pokesit and Manomet
petitioned to be released from paying to the support of Mr. Fes-
senden and town schools.” — Mr. Seth Pope Sr. d. this year,
Nov. 23; also Nathan Barlow, Dec. 15.
In 1745, the condition on which the £30 was to be added to
the nominal salary of the minister appears not to have been accept-
ed; for “ Medad Tupper and 24 others attending a meeting in
the meeting-house in the westerly part of the town,” were peti-
tioners “ to be excused from paying for the support of Mr. Fes-
senden.” The request was “ negatived.”1
The Bev. Benjamin Fessenden died Aug. 7, 1746.2 A
committee was appointed, Aug. 15, to supply the pulpit,
for which purpose £50 was appropriated. Provision
was also made “for the occupancy of the parsonage
for the present by Mrs. Bebecca Fessenden the widow
of the lamented deceased.” A number of candidates
for the pastorate were proposed. The question of the
successor to Mr. F. was the engrossing topic for one
or two years.
7 mo. 11: 1654; and had Ephraim Ap. 21, 1649 who d. inf. y Mercy Nov.
13, 1650; Stephen Sept. 2, 1656 by Sarah; Sarah Feb. 5, 1658; John
Sept. 25, 1661; Abigail May 1, 1664; Ebenezer 11:5: 1671; and Mat-
thias 1:1: 1673. — From the preceding have sprung numerous descend-
ants whose genealogy would fill a large volume. The different branches
are widely scattered, generally highly respectable; several are now rep-
resented in this town. We wish we had space for an extended genealogy,
that our pains in collecting it might at least be requited by the pleasure of
publishing it.
1 This was the era of much excitement occasioned by the itinerant labors
of the eloquent Whitefield. Whether the dissension here was influenced at
all by the general feeling elsewhere is not clear. It may, perhaps, be
inferred that the difficulties here were generated, as is frequently the case,
by slight and latent causes leading to prejudices that soon become strangely
inveterate.
* See VoL L 651.102
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1747, a meeting was called “to see if the town will concur
with the church in their call to Mr. Joseph Roby.” The vote was
13 in the aff. and 15 neg. The town finally voted his salary, and
a settlement of £ 300 with lands and meadows; but so great was
the lack of unity, that the proceedings were reconsidered and a
com. was chosen to advise. Late in the year, Nov., the com. for
supply were directed by special vote, “ to apply to the following
persons, in succession, to be heard as candidates, viz.: Messrs*
Harrington, Marsh, Torry, Lawrence, and Mr. Cotton Brown; and
if none of these can be obtained, then to apply to Mr. Appleton,
the Pt. of H. College, for advice.”—Mr. Nathan Nye Sr. d. this
year, Nov. 27.
In 1748, the question before the town being * shall we proceed
to the choice of a minister ? ’ there were 25 aff. and 18 neg. It
was finally “ agreed that the names of five clergymen shall be pre-
sented, the town to select two from these and submit the choice
from the two to the church.” The church made choice of Mr.
William Lawrence; in which the town then concurred by a large
majority. Mr. Lawrence not accepting, great diversity of senti-
ment again existed for some time. Candidates were sought, and
the settlement of some proposed and negatived; until finally, in
Nov., “ Mr. Turrell was called, and £100 voted as his salary.” Dea.
Elijah Perry and others were app. a com. to confer with Mr. T.,
but he declining the call, other candidates were proposed, and
among them Mr. Williams. — Mr. Matthias Elias Sr. d. this
year, Aug. 30.
In 1749, Jan. 17, the town concurred with the church
by a large majority in extending a call to Mr. Abra-
ham Williams. It was voted that he have “ a yearly
salary of £400 old tenor, or the payment of that
amount in milled dollars at £2.5 per dollar, with the
use of lands and meadows, and have also £1000 old
tenor for a settlement” There was “ one dissentient
only.” Mr. Williams gave a favorable answer, May 1,
and was ordained June 14.1—Mr. Thomas Smith died
Feb. 15.
^1 Mr. Williams, it has been said, labored patiently to allay the animosi-
ties that had long existed resulting in the establishment of a second church.
How long Rev. Mr. Wooster remained, does not clearly appear. Mar-ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
103
In 1750, Mr. Eldad Tupper, who had often repre-
sented the town in General Court, and whose ecclesi-
astical register shows large care of the Indians, died
Sept. 15.
In 1751, Mr. Joseph Rogers, the old schoolmaster, was still
in the service of the town at a salary of £20 lawful money;
but information was again made against the town by James
Otis Esq., “ for not being provided with a school-master accord-
ing to law? Agents were chosen “to answer at the General
Sessions.”
In 1752, Mr. Silas Tupper 1 was employed to teach the schools,
“at a salary of £26.13.4 lawful money and board.” .
The dissension that had long existed in regard to
the ministry, was now happily abated; and, June 5,
Mr. Williams welcomed back to the church twelve of
the members which under his predecessor’s pastorate
composed the chief part of the church at Scusset.
In 1753, the bounds of Sandwich, between Barnstable and
Marshpee, were again defined. — Poaching in Herring River con-
trary to law, was cause of complaint thus early; and “on the
question whether the town will remit to” (a prominent man)
“ the penalty of the law for seining in the river, he paying the
costs of suit as far as it has proceeded against him and Jim
Mingo,” clemency prevailed.2 — The town petitioned the Gen.
Court, June 18, to reduce the number of the courts of Gen.
Ses. of the Peace and Inferior C. C. P. in this County, from four
to two per annum.
In 1754, Mar. 21, forty-two men were appointed by the town
riages were solemnized by him as late as 1746, but none are recorded after.
The 2d church seems to have become extinct about this time.
1	Mr. Silas Tupper, b. 1727, was the son of Sami. Esq. By marriage
with Hannah Freeman, dr. of Wm., June 2, 1757, he had Anna Ap. 9,
1758, who m. Sami. Gifford; Sarah Ap. 1,1760 who m. John Fish; Samuel
Mar. 22, 1762; Polly who m. Nathl. Aiken; Hannah who m. Elisha Free-
man; and Silas Feb. 28, 1768. Mr. T. was long time the school-master,
also Town Treasr. 1761-1766, and then, with all his family, married and
unmarried, removed to Barnard, Vt., where he d. Mar. 28, 1801, se. 74.
Aged people who passed away since our remembrance were accustomed to
speak of him as “ School-master Tupper.”
2	The fine was remitted, enabling Mr.----and 11 negro Jim ” to congrat-
ulate themselves that they were so well out of this fishy affair.104
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
“ to fire the woods before Ap. 16.”1 — Mr. Rowland Tupper d.
May 12; whilst in the act of shaving his beard, he was struck by
lightning.*
In 1755, it was voted u to enlarge the meeting-house by dividing
it in the centre and putting in 15 ft.; ” for which £ 60 was appro-
priated.—Mr. Samuel Blackwell d. this year, Jan. 29.—The other
incidents of the year are sufficiently noted in Yol. I.
In 1756, the meeting-house being completed, the pews were
ordered to be sold by auction. The pews having sold for more
than sufficient to pay all expenses, leaving a considerable balance,
it was “ ordered that a steeple be built; that the old bell be sold
1	It may appear strange at the present day that so late as 110 yrs. ago
the practice of firing the woods prevailed; or even that it prevailed at all.
How long after 1754 these firings were practised, we are unable to say. A
fire in the woods at the present day is the signal of general alarm. But we
must consider the changed condition of our forests. When the country
was first settled, and long after, these forests were more passable than now.
The trees were large and of primitive growth; then yielding the very best
ship-timber and furnishing an abundant supply of lumber for all building
purposes. There was, in consequence, very little underbrush, and the trees
were not injured by the firings which were practised by the white man
as had been the immemorial custom of the red men, to destroy, by the
burning of the leaves and fallen branches, the lower limbs of these trees and
the growth of noxious shrubs and other entanglements. These firings, by
the settlers, were designed to encourage the growth of herbage for young
cattle and sheep. —The former condition of the forests is illustrated by the
travels of the company of men, women and children who left Newton
(now Cambridge) to commence the first English settlement in Hartford,
Ct., in 1635. They “ travelled through a trackless wilderness, having no
Slide but their compass, and drove with them 160 head of cattle. Mrs.
ooker was borne on a litter.” Persons on horseback could then ride con-
veniently in any direction, except through swamps, thickets, and rivers.
As Dr. Hildreth, of Ohio, in his description of the new lands at the West,
says : “ While the red man possessed the country and annually set fire to the
fallen leaves, the forests presented a noble and enchanting appearance. The
eye roved with delight. Like the divisions of an immense temple, the for-
ests were crowded with innumerable pillars, the branches of whose shafts
interlocking, formed the arch work of support to that leafy roof which cov-
ered and crowned the whole. But since the white man took possession, the
annual fires have been checked, and the woodlands are now filled with
shrubs and brush that obstruct the vision on eveiy side, and convert these
once beautiful forests into a rude and tasteless wilderness.”
2	Roland Tupper, b. 1717, was uncle to the last named, being young-
est son of Dea. Israel. See Yol. I. 698. He m. Zerviah Willis, dr. Sami,
of Dartmouth, and had Willis Ap. 15, 1750; Lydia Mar. 22, 1752; and
Eliza. Sept. 22, 1753, who m. Eph. Kempton of Dart, and d. a widow Nov.
29, 1848 «. 95.
3	We presume that the steeple was to surmount a porch at the W. end
communicating as in after times with the W. aisle as did also another porch
at the E. end with the E. aisle. Many are yet living who remember, as do
we, ‘the old meeting-house* after its subsequent enlargement — the opera-
tion having been similar to that indicated above, except that the division
was in a transverse direction giving a greater distance from the front doorANNALS OF SANDWICH.
105
and a new one of 400 lbs. be obtained; that doors be put to tbe
seats below; that tables be hung in the old men’s front seat, the
women’s seats below to be hung with hinges; that curtains be
placed at such of the windows as are exposed to the sun; that the
seats in all the pews be hung and tables fixed in them where
requested; that a place be provided for all free Negroes, Mulat-
toes, and Indians, and that they be not allowed to sit below, or on
the stairs.” A com. was app. “ to take the key and shut the door
against disorderly persons until time of service.” Mordecai Ellis
and Joshua Fish were app. “ to take care of the young people
who are often very rude on the Lord’s days, and when any do
offend return them to a Just. Pac. to be dealt with according to
law.”1
As it may be of some interest at the present day, to know the
arrangements of6 the meeting-house ’ more than one hundred years
ago, we will give with some particularity what we find upon the
records. (See pages 106 and 107.)
In 1757, Mr. John Chipman d., Dec. 30.
In 1758, Col. Cotton and the town rep. were app. “to answer
the petition of Thos. Foster Esq. in behalf of the town of Plym.,
and to defend the rights of the town respecting Herring River.”
— For schools, £33.6.8 was voted, “every scholar to pay addi-
tional 4 d. per week.”
In 1759, the legislature was again requested to reduce the four
courts of Pleas and Sessions, to two terms annually which it was
“ apprehended will be a great saving of time and charge and of
great advantage to the inhabitants of the county.” — The town
also passed an order “ to prevent damage to sheep by dogs.” 2
to the pulpit and greatly increasing the number of pews in the body of the
house. By the latter arrangement the entrance stairs to the gallery were
removed to the porches, and a somewhat different disposition of pews and
seats both below and above was effected. The venerable old meeting-house,
which for many yrs. accommodated the larger portion of the town on Sun-
days, and was also the place in which were held all town-meetings for the
transaction of public business, continued to be used until after doctrines
conflicting with those of the fathers, began to divide the town into sects,
and then gave way to an edifice of much diminished proportions—the
Unitarian meeting-house which stands on the site.
1	In 1767, the petition of two misses “ to be relieved from a fine imposed
for laughing in meeting,” was gallantly responded to by an affirmative vote.
In later days, the process of administering^ justice to the boys was more
summary; there was no opportunity for petition or repeal: a rap from the
strong arm of ‘ old Titus ’ with cane in hand, came with singular surprise
ofttimes to the shoulders or heads of the naughty and inattentive.
2	“ For keeping a blood-hound, or a dog in part blood-hound,” a fine of
18 s. was imposed, to be paid each and every week such dog is kept; and if
vol. n.	14106
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
any inhabitant entertain persons who come from other towns to hunt with
hounds, such inhabitant shall be fined 10 s. for each and every such
offence; if any tavern-keeper entertain such and do not give notice to the
town-treasurer within 12 hours after such hunters arrive, he shall pay a fine
of 18 s. for each offence j and if any inhabitant hunt for deer between theGALLERY.
ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
107
No. 9. £6.6.8. Mord. Ellis.	No. 8. £6.13.4. Elijah Perry.	No. 7. £4.1.4. f John Bourne. 1	
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20th of May and the 1st of December, he shall pay a fine of 18 s. Any
person killing a hound found hunting, and producing the head to one of
the committee appointed to look after the deer, shall have 2 s. reward and
the towrn will indemnify him. For information of any breach of this
order, 2 s. reward.108
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
The next year, 1760, the last named Act was strengthened by
“ an Act regulating hunting.”1
-In 1761, resort was had to voluntary contributions for the sup-
port of the ministry. The town also voted “ that the ministerial
lands at Nonsuch be bounded.” — The lands from which the Aca-
dians had been driven out in N. Scotia, being now an object of
interest, three families left town as part of an expedition to settle
MatequiaJc, now Yarmouth. The pioneers were Seled Landers,
Ebenezer Ellis, and Moses Perry, and they reached their point of
destination, June 9.
In 1762, an addition of £18.6.8 was made to the salary of Rev.
Mr. Williams. — And the bounds between Plym. and this town
were defined by Thos. Foster, Geo. Watson, and John Torry of
Plym., and Sol. Foster and Jona. Bassett of this town.2
In 1763, “ the meeting-house com.” having reported that they
had “ sold the old bell for the use of the court-house at Barnsta-
ble,” it was “ ordered that the meeting-house be painted.”
In 1764, two of the most influential and respectable citizens of
this town, deceased: Sami. Jennings Esq., May 13, ae. 80; and
Hon. Ezra Bourne in Sept., ae. 88.
The discussions which had been frequent in public
and private for several years touching the relation of
the colonies to the parent government, were now
assuming a prominent feature in all public affairs.
The colonies were, as Burke remarked, “ snuffing
tyranny in every tainted breeze.” Domestic manu-
factures were here, as elsewhere, the more vigorously
prosecuted from the produce of the fields and the
product of the flocks. Flax and wool, then staples of
1 The necessity for these regulations was twofold: Below the towns of
Plym. and Wareham and extending to Barnstable, Marshpee and Falmouth
bounds, was a large district of country covered with wood because more
valuable for its primitive productions than for any other, and this forest
was the range, through a considerable portion of the year, of large flocks
of sheep; moreover, this district with the woods of adjoining towns,
embracing about 20 sq. miles, had always been well stocked with deer: but
they were being rapidly thinned by hunters. Dr. Thacher relates that in
1730, a Plym. man “ killed 3 deer at one shot.”
* “ Beginning at a white-oak bush on Peaked Cliff, marked on four
sides, with stones about it; from thence running S. E. 3° to the westerly
side of Herring Pond abt. 2 rods from the mouth of sd. pond to a rock;
and from sd. rock to the Wareham line.”ANNALS OP SANDWICH.
109
New England, gave ample employment to the spinning
wheel and loom which were found in every well-ordered
family; wives and daughters priding themselves upon
the fabrics which home industry had created. But for
these circumstances, wealth would not have so rapidly
increased, nor would the people have been so well pro-
vided for the exigencies that might arise. The feeling
now existing may be inferred from the prophecy this
year of the younger Otis, “ The world is at the eve of
the highest scene of earthly power and grandeur that
has ever been displayed in the view of mankind.”
In 1765, the war between England and France that
had cost England 250,000 human lives, upwards of
£111,000,000 sterling, and exhausted the treasury,
being followed by a policy to relieve the nation of
debt by a revenue to be increased by taxing the colo-
nies, and the stamp-act being devised, the news was
like a spark of fire among gunpowder. Whilst mobs
and tumults were the result in cities,1 indignation and
firm resolve were the result in the country towns.2
The revolutionary song has it,
“ King George, he sent along his stamps,
The people stamped with rage, Sir.”
The repeal of the stamp-act in 1766, being preceded
by a declaration of Parliament that the Crown had
and “ of right ought to have power to bind the Colo-
nies,” did not allay the excitement.
1	Oliver, the stamp officer, was assaulted in Boston, his office demolished,
and he hung in effigy from the outstretched arm of a majestic elm long
after known as * the liberty-tree/ Where stood this tree, at the corner of
Essex and Washington Sts., the Hon. David Sears, the worthy President
of the Cape Cod Association, caused to be erected buildings known as ‘ The
Liberty-tree Block/ on the front of which in bass-relief is represented
the tree.
2	The measure had caused Franklin, then in Eng., to exclaim, “ The sun
of liberty is set; the Americans must light the torches of industry and
economy ; ” to which Thomson, afterwards secretary of Congress, replied,
“We shall light torches of quite another soft.”110
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1767, the town “ ordered that a powder-house he built,” and,
Dec. 15, on “ the report of Col. Cotton, Sol. Foster, Stephen Nye,
Nathl. Freeman,1 Sami. Wing, and Dea. Smith — a com. to con-
sider a matter of great public interest,” the preamble and resolu-
tions embraced by sd. report were twice read and adopted.2
At this period Mr. Elisha Tupper whose father and
great-grandfather had long preceded him in the same
work, was, as years previous, engaged in missionary
efforts among the Indians; his ministrations being also
attended by citizens of the town living contiguous to
the several places where he officiated. His corre-
spondence with the Commissioners for propagating the
Gospel among the Indians, contains some valuable
statistics not supplied from other sources.3
1	This is the first notice in the records of his connection with any pub-
lic business. His deviating at all from strictly professional labors, was
caused, as is seen, by the exigencies of the times. Deeply imbued with
the spirit of liberty, he is henceforward prominent in political movements.
2	These were: — “ Whereas the use of foreign superfluities tends greatly
to impoverish this Province and our town — as our money is daily going
from us and the drain is likely to be increased by means not only of the
late additional burdens from England, but the heavy tax which threatens
the town with poverty and ruin unless all prudent measures be taken to
lessen the use of superfluities from abroad, viz. loaf-sugar, cordage, anchors,
men's and women's apparel ready made, household furniture, gloves, men's
and women's shoes, sole-leather, sheathing, deck-nails, gold and silver but-
tons, wrought plate of all sorts, snuff, mustard, clocks and watches, silver-
smith and jeweller’s wares, broad-cloths costing more than 10 s. pr. yard,
muffs, tippets, furs, and all sorts of millinery, starch, women and children’s
stays, china-ware, silk and cotton velvets, gauze, pewterer's hollow-ware,
linseed-oil, glue, lawns, cambrics, silks of all kinds, malt-liquor, cheese,
bohea and green teas — the extravagant use of these last in the afternoon:
Therefore resolved that after Jan. 1, 1768, we, in order to extricate us from
our distressed circumstances and to prevent the importation of European
commodities and superfluities the use of which threatens the town with
poverty and ruin, promise and engage to and with each other that we will
not import or introduce any of the above-mentioned restricted articles of
foreign growth. And furthermore, to the end that this union be not
violated, and the good effect to follow from it be not frustrated by any con-
siderable inhabitant not signing and conforming to the regulations herein
made as far and as well as he can; Therefore resolved that if any one
disregarding the intentions of the town still continues to import or intro-
duce any of the afore-mentioned articles, such person or persons shall be
by us discountenanced in the most effectual but decent and lawful manner,
though no force or restraint shall be laid upon them. Resolved, That the
foregoing be lodged in the Town Clerk's office for signatures.”
3	A Memorial to the Comrs., Nov. 18, 1761, shows that the salary of the
missionary was £183.6.8, old tenor.—At the present date, 1767, IsaacANNALS OF SANDWICH.
Ill
In 1768, 20th 2d mo., a petition was presented from the people
called Quakers for their proportionate share of the ministerial
lands. It was signed by Joshua Wing, Geo. Allen, Barnabas Hoxie,
Gideon Hoxie, Sami. Gifford, John Allen, Edward Wing, Edward
Dillingham, Josiah Gifford, Daniel Allen, Zaccheus Wing, and
Samuel Wing. The petition was “ unanimously referred to a
com. to confer with the petitioners and examine the foundation on
which the town was settled; the manner and reasons of the grants
of lands to the ministry; and whether the petitioners have any
equitable right to the same, and report.” This com. consisted of
Messrs. Sol. Foster,1 Benj. Fessenden, Prince Tupper, Jona. Bas-
sett, Enoch Tupper, Thos. Barlow, and Dea. Smith.
Political questions being again introduced by the
proposal of the town of Boston for a Convention to be
held there, the result in town meeting showed that the
two political parties were, at this early period, nearly
balanced. The vote was, after long debate, “ not to
send to the Convention, 33 for, 42 against sending.”
In 1769, it was “ voted that the school-master shall go through
the town as heretofore, with his school, once a year.” — A passage
for herrings “ into the pond that supplies Nye’s mill ” was ordered
Jephry, Indian, proposed to relieve Mr. T. of part of his charge by preach-
ing at Herring Pond for a salary of £6 ; a kindness that Jephry doubtless
thought was not rightly appreciated. — Statements made at this date, rep-
resent that besides Indians occupying 9 wigwams at Scorton, there were 8
families of Indians at Pocasset and as many houses—in all about 30 souls.
There were also at Pocasset 50 Eng. families. — Mr. Tupper preached at
the latter place, and “ also two miles from Mr. Williams’ meeting-house, in
a meeting-house at Scusset formerly built by a party that separated from
the Sandwich church 5 ” also “ once a month at H. Pond, and occasionally
at Wareham.”
1 The name is upon the records first, at the time of the m. of Joseph
Foster of Barnstable to Rachel Bassett of Sandwich Sept. 8, 1696, from
whom were Mary Sept. 1, 1697 who m. Moses Swift Dec. 24,1719 ; Joseph
Sept. 19, 1698; Benjamin Nov. 16,1699 who m. Maria Tobey Dec. 31,
1724; Wm. Mar. 31, 1702 ; Thankful Nov. 3, 1703 who m. Nathan Tobey
Sept. 25, 1725; John Ap. 12, 1705 ; Nathan Jan. 3, 1707-8; Abigail Feb.
27, 1708-9 who m. Zaccheus Swift May 15, 1735; Deborah Jan. 18, 1710-
11 who m. Isaac Freeman Nov. 22, 1733 ; Ebenr. May 10, 1713 ; Solomon
Sept. 4, 1714; Rachel Oct. 30, 1716; Hannah June 17, 1718 who m. Jona.
Churchill of Plym. Dec. 10, 1743; and Sarah Sept. 23, 1721 who m. Nathl.
Nye Nov. 11, 1742.— Solomon Esq., of the preceding family, was some
time town-clerk, and much engaged in public affairs. By his m. with
Rebecca Nye July 15, 1739, he had Bryant July 5, 1741; Abigail Dec.
30, 1750; Wm. Feb. 4, 1753; Elisha Oct. 14, 1759; and Lemuel Ap.
14, 1762.112
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
to be made. — “ Pocasset having again applied to be made a Pre-
cinct, and a petition to this end being before the Gen. Ct.,” a com.
was chosen by the town “ to remonstrate.”1 Capt. Thos. Bourne
was app. for the town “ to oppose the petition in Gen. Ct.”
In 1770, Mar. 8, the town voted that “ until the Act of Parlia-
ment is repealed which now imposes duties on tea, paper, &c., we
will not purchase any goods of those who import, nor of those who
purchase from importers; and that if any person shall bring such
goods into town, we will in a legal, just, fair, and prudent way
discountenance and discourage the sale of such goods.”—A vol-
untary payment of 14 s. was made by the ‘ Friends’ Meeting,’ to
reimburse “ the charge the town had been at on account of a poor
woman belonging to sd. Meeting.” 2
In 1772, during the month of June, the town was
visited by "a terrible fire in the woods, which was
attended with great destruction of sheep, and caused a
great depreciation of property.” — Pocasset was incor-
porated as “ the 2d Precinct in Sandwich.” — The town
“ ordered that the Province law to prevent the destruction
of oysters be put in execution.” — Samuel Tupper Esq.,
many years selectman and representative, d. Aug. 18.3
1	The remonstrants state “ that the total of Real est. in Pocasset is
£1255 ; Personal £426.5 $ the ministerial tax £7.10.1 out of £70; that
Mr. Tupper is employed by the Hon. Comrs. to preach to Indians 8 miles
distant from Pocasset meeting-house ; that Mr. T. is not an ordained min-
ister ; that there is no church gathered at Pocasset; that the number of
dwelling-houses in that part of the town was but 18 in 1730, with 90 white
inhabitants; in 1749, but 28 dwellings and 121 inhab.; and now, 1769, the
number of dwellings is but 31, inhab. 160. Also that in the town are 60
families of Friends, or Quakers, whose rates are not available for the sup-
port of the ministry. Furthermore, that the settlements in the town are
all on the sea-shore, or around ponds, and many besides those residing in
Pocasset are necessarily remote from meeting. Moreover, the small old
meeting-house, removed, repaired, and set up in Pocasset, stands three
miles from the nearest part of Manomet; the meeting-house at Herring
Pond is gone to decay; Mr. Tupper is now about 63 yrs. of age, has but
one Indian communicant, and that member 60 yrs. old; and that no other
missionary will be appointed after Mr. T. who cannot long serve the con-
gregation.”
2	The following is in a news-journal, Aug. 16: “A few weeks since sev-
eral children were playing in Sandwich near the water, and one of them
about 9 yrs. old, son of Rev. Mr. Williams, fell in and sunk. After about
15 minutes the child was taken out apparently dead, but by the usual
applications was recovered.”
* Samuel Tupper Esq. was son of Dea. Israel (see Vol. I. 698) and b.
May 4,1692. He was a very prominent man, Rep. 7 yrs. and SelectmanANNALS OF SANDWICH.
113
In 1773, Jan. 26, a town meeting was called “the
occasion for which being one of serious moment,” the
Eev. Mr. Williams was waited on by “ a committee con-
sisting of Moses Swift, Deacon Tobey, and Eliakim
Tobey,” requesting him “ to attend before the meeting
proceed further, and open the meeting with prayer.”
This being done, a letter from the Boston committee
was read, setting forth their grievances. The speech
of the Governor to both Houses at the opening of the
General Court, was offered, but refused a hearing. Sim-
eon Dillingham, Moses Swift, Mordecai Ellis, Zaccheus
Burge, Stephen Nye, Joseph Nye 3d, Simeon Fish, Seth
Freeman, Nathaniel Fish Jr., Joshua Tobey, and Dr.
Nathaniel Freeman, were appointed a committee to
report suitable resolutions for the action of the meet-
ing. Such resolutions were presented, adopted, and
ordered to be forwarded to Boston: viz.
19 yrs. He m. 1st Rebecca Ellis, Aug. 15, 1717, and 2d Hannah Fish,
Oct. 14, 1726, and had Mordecai Sept. 9, 1718, who settled in Barnstable;
Sami. Feb. 20, 1719-20, who went to Dartmouth; Elizabeth Oct. 22, 1722,
who m. Benj. Ellis Oct. 10, 1745; Rebecca Oct. 14, 1724, who m. Elkanah '
Morton of Dartmouth Dec. 12, 1752 ; Silas Aug. 9, 1727, who went to Yt.;
Enoch Ap. 30, 1729; Peleg Ap. 1, 1731, who went to Maine; Jabez Jan.
27, 1733 ; Seth May 6, 1735, who went to Kingston; Rachel Ap. 9,1737,
who m. Matthias Ellis Jr. Feb. 15,1759 ; Thankful Jan. 23,1740-1, who m.
Nath. Phinney Jan. 13, 1763; Israel May 9, 1744, who went to Yt.; and
Hannah May 26, 1746, who m. John Jones Mar. 10, 1765, and removed to
Vt. — Enoch, son of the above, b. 1729, m. Mehitable Davis Sept. 15,1748,
and had Desire, Solomon, Davis, Enoch, Olive, Seth, Olive, Jonathan May-
hew, Mehitable, and Grace. — Peleg, b. 1731, m. Deborah Fish Jan. 24,
1765, and took with him to Maine a large family and had others bom there.
He bought the first settler’s lot at Waterville, above the fort, on the Fair-
field. road. — Jabez, b. 1733, m. Esther Jennings, Feb. 14, 1759, and was
killed on board an Eng. frigate, being involuntarily detained to navigate.
It is remarkable that the widow who lived to a great age, and had thus lost
her husband by Br. impressment, was the daughter of Sam. Jennings Esq.
whose suffering from nke impressment is mentioned p. 88. The family,
we would suppose, could not have had a very favorable impression of the
tender mercies of the British. The children of Jabez, were William Ap.
27, 1760, who by his cousin Olive Tupper had Diadama and d. 1784;
Deborah July 5,1762, who d. single, very aged; Esther Oct. 31, 1764, who
d. inf.; Jabez Sept. 10, 1767, who was lost at sea; and Esther Feb. 19,
1771, who m. and went to Maine. — Seth, b. 1735, went to Kingston, and
there m. Priscilla Sampson Dec. 1, 1760, and had Sam., Peleg, Priscilla,
Nath., Polly, and Bridget. He d. in the W. Indies in 1775. He has
descendants still in K., and others widely scattered.
VOL. H.	15114
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
“Resolved, That our rights as men, Christians, and subjects, are
derived to the colonies in general and to this province in particu-
lar, from the laws of Nature, the English Constitution, and the
Provincial Charter, and that no power under Heaven has a right
to deprive us of them.
“ Resolved, That the infringement and violation of our rights
are a matter of just complaint, that ought to be opposed in every
lawful way by the whole body of the people as unconstitutional
and intolerable grievances.
“ Resolved, That our patience has been tried and new griev-
ances come in the place of redress, until we are forced to believe
the annihilation of our charter rights is intended.
“ Resolved, That we owe it as a duty to ourselves, our fellow-
men, and to posterity, to oppose in all lawful ways every such viola-
tion of our rights, and that we will join with our brethren of the
other towns in this province in any legal measures to obtain relief.
“Resolved, That our representative be earnestly requested to
exert his influence at the Great and Gen. Court to retrieve our
injured rights, and secure those that yet remain, to us and to pos-
terity ; and use his endeavors that a dutiful, loyal, but most impor-
tunate petition be preferred to our Most Gracious Sovereign, fully
and plainly presenting our grievances and earnestly imploring
Royal interposition in our favor, assuring Him of our loyalty and
the affection we bear to his royal person, crown, and dignity; that
we are willing to continue our allegiance, but claim his royal pro-
tection of us in the enjoyment of our charter and of our rights as
Englishmen, and that our complaints are the general voice and
not the murmurs of a faction as has been represented.” — These
resolutions, Joseph Nye 3d, Dr. N. Freeman, and Benj. Blossom
were directed to transmit to Boston. Mr. Blossom refusing to
serve, Seth Freeman was chosen in his place. — At a subsequent
meeting, letters received from the com. of correspondence in Bos-
ton were read, and a com. of cor. was chosen in behalf of this town,
viz. Dr. Nathaniel Freeman, Moses Swift, Seth Freeman, John
Allen, Joseph Nye 3d, Geo. Allen, Simeon Fish, Mord. Ellis, Eli-
sha Pope, John Percival, and Joshua Tobey. Thomas Smith Jr.
and Stephen Chipman requested their dissent and protest against
all the foregoing proceedings might be recorded; and the Messrs.
Allen requested to be excused from serving on the aforesaid com.,
they being c Friends.’
At a meeting May 18, it was voted by the town
“that our representative is instructed to endeavor toANNALS OP SANDWICH.
115
have an Act passed by the Court, to prevent the impor-
tation of slaves into this county, and that all children
that shall be born of such Africans as are now slaves
among us shall, after such Act, be free at 21 yrs. of age.
In 1774, Mar. 14, after prayer by Mr. Williams, the report of
the town’s com. of cor. was read, embracing letters received and
copies of letters sent. “ The doings of the com. were approved,
and the thanks of the town voted for their zealous devotion to the
true interests of the country.” It was also voted “ that the letters
of the Gov. and Lt. Gov.,” and some others embraced in the report,
“ are replete with malicious enmity.” Also, “ That the Act of Par-
liament imposing a duty on Teas imported into America, is a tax
upon us without our consent, and therefore unconstitutional and
ought to be opposed; That the consignees of the tea sent by the
E. Ind. Co. have discovered their enmity to the country by refus-
ing to resign their agency, and have forfeited all right to our pro-
tection ; That whereas the assemblage in the Old South Meeting-
house in Boston in Dec. last did as far as was in their power and
consistent with the good of the country, endeavor to have those
teas go safely back and were obstructed in this endeavor by the
obstinacy of others, the destruction of those teas became necessa-
ry and wag wholly owing to the groundless objections of the con-
signees and their aiders and abettors; That we will not import,
buy, or make use of any teas purchased of the E. Ind. Co. or sub-
ject to such unconstitutional duty, until the Act is totally re-
pealed ; That an attested copy of these votes be transmitted, with
the thanks of the town, to the corns, of cor. of Boston and Plym.
for their manly opposition to a most pernicious measure, assuring
them that we are ready to join them in opposing every unright-
eous attempt upon our liberties.” — Zaccheus Burge, Lot Nye, and
John Dillingham Jr. were appointed to supply the vacancies in
the committee of correspondence occasioned by the resignations
of Messrs. John and George Allen.
That the inhabitants were here, as elsewhere to a
considerable extent, divided by opposing political views,
and that to the respective parties began now to be
applied the distinctive appellations, whigs and tories,
is a fact which, however sensitive any may be in refer-
ence to it, it were ridiculous to ignore. It would be116
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
worse than ridiculous if an historian were to attempt to
conceal the fact because, forsooth, some may object that
the exposure is ‘ virtually exhuming the ashes of the
dead.’ So far as is necessary to a full view of the dif
Acuities attending the revolutionary struggle, we do
not hesitate to state the case freely, fully, unequivo-
cally. Such, here, as began now to be denominated
by the odious epithet, were, perhaps generally, persons
of influence. In some instances, leaders in the oppo-
sition to patriotic measures had enjoyed emolument
from the British Government. The influence of patr
ronage, however limited the benefit, generally leaves
its impression; a remark that need not he considered
as apposite only to revolutionary times. Men of differ-
ing parties have been found in later times as submis-
sively fond of the crumbs falling from those in power
as were any in the days of the favors of royalty.
" Quid non mortalia pectora cogis,
Auri sacra fames! ”
As the excitement of the hour increased and the
breach widened, various were the influences that decided
the position of the masses. The whigs were soon in
the ascendency, but the struggle was hard. The pa-
triotic had much to contend against. Open, and also
secret foes, were around their very dwellings. Stout
must have been their hearts, to endure. Little know
we of their dark and anxious hours; their sacrifices
and trials. We would recall no angry resentments; we
would rekindle no such passions from the embers of
revolutionary strife: but we would be true to history.
At a meeting, Sept. 30, after prayer by Mr. Ephraim Ellis, Dr.
Nathaniel Freeman was called to the chair, the former moderator
retiring on account of the business now before the meeting he
having been app. to represent the town in the Glen. Ct. to be con-
vened at Salem Oct. 5. Mr.Nye, the rep, was “instructed—notANNALS OP SANDWICH.
117
to consent to any business with the Council said to be appointed
by Mandamus under the late Act of Parliament; not to conform
in any manner to any of the late oppressive Acts by consenting to
pay for the teas as required in the Boston Port bill; that he use
his endeavors to obtain redress of our grievances, and that the
constitutional council of the province chosen last May by the Gen.
Ct. be called to unite with the court as usual.” He was also “ au-
thorized to unitq with the Congress of the Province and act as a
member of the same.” — The further report of the com. of cor. was
then read, and patriotic resolves suited to the occasion were passed;
viz.: u Resolved that this town approves the doings of its com.
of cor., and that the letters recently received and now communi-
cated, contain matter both interesting and alarming in regard to
which we ought seriously to deliberate* determine, and act; That
the Act called the Boston Port bill, is not only a most unrighteous
violation of our charter rights, but is an unparalleled instance of
cruelty, tyranny and oppression tending to alienate the affections
and annihilate the prosperity of his majesty’s subjects, and there-
fore ought by all means to be opposed; That the two other Acts,
the one entitled c An Act for the better administration of Justice,’
and the other ‘ An Act for the better regulating the Govt, of the
Prov. of Mass. Bay,’ are a daring insult upon the people, directly
depriving them of the Eng. Constitution and violating the sacred
Charter of the Province — calculated to prevent the impartial
administration of justice and to encourage bloodshed and murder,
and that should we tamely submit we cannot answer it to God,
our own consciences, our fellow-men, or to posterity: therefore
we never will submit, but will oppose sd. Acts even though it
be at the risk of our fortunes and our lives; That as one means
of obtaining redress without the carnage and desolation of civil
war, we will neither import any goods whatever from Gt. Britain
nor suffer any among us to import, nor purchase of any one who
does import, until our grievances are fully redressed and the port
of Boston is opened; That inasmuch as our brethren of Boston are
suffering in a common cause and standing foremost in support of
it, it is our duty to afford them relief and that subscription papers
be opened and passed around through the town by the selectmen
and com. of cor.—the amt. subscribed to be transmitted; That
whereas the Capital of the Province is actually besieged by a fleet
and army constantly making hostile preparations and often seizing
upon and robbing the country of its means of defence, we deem it
necessary for the people to be well-provided with arms and ammu-118
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
nition, and recommend that every male inhabitant of this town of
16 yrs. of age or over be provided accordingly and attend often to
military exercise, the com. of cor. endeavoring to persuade the peo-
ple thereto by calling upon them to assemble for the purpose, and
the selectmen securing powder for the town — its full complement;
That a Congress of Deputies for the several towns in the County
appears to us necessary at this juncture, and that a com. for this
town, consisting of Dr. Freeman, Messrs. Simepn Fish, Joshua
Tobey, Lot Nye, Seth Freeman, Thos. Nye, John Dillingham Jr.,
Joseph Nye 3d, and Micah Blackwell, meet at such time and place
as shall be agreed upon by the major part of the corns, that shall
be chosen in the County; That every person use his best endeav-
ors to suppress common pedlers of Eng., Scotch, or India goods,
and the several innholders in this town be desired to refuse to
entertain them; That the town clerk make a fair record of all let-
ters received by the selectmen or com. of cor. from other towns,
and of the letters they may send or have sent, together with the
reports of the com. of cor. last March and at the present meeting,
and publish the present doings; That the selectmen be directed to
purchase a chest of arms and deliver them to the inhabitants at
first cost at discretion, and four barrels of gunpowder with lead
and flints in proportion, to be kept in addition to the town’s pres-
ent stock; That the thanks of this town be expressed to the gent,
from the counties of Plymouth and Bristol, who lately attended
in this County to assist in preventing the late oppressive Acts of
Parliament from taking effect,” (a com. consisting of Dr. Freeman,
Seth Freeman, and John Dillingham Jr. being app. to that duty)
— “ also thanks to Melatiah Bourne Esq. for the timber presented
by him to be erected a liberty-pole.”
A full account of the great gathering of 6 the Body
of the People/ to which reference is made in the last
resolve, appears under its appropriate date in the
history of the county.
At a legal meeting, Nov. 11, Dr. Freeman moderator, Mr. Wil-
liams having opened the meeting with prayer further action was
had that shows the town, by its majority, was still inflexible in
its patriotic course. It was “Voted, That those mandamus coun-
cillors and others who have accepted of, or acted under commis-
sions or authority derived from the late Act of Parliament passed
the last session for changing the form of govt., and who have not
conformed to the resolves of the Prov. Congress of Oct. 21, be
iANNALS OF SANDWICH.
119
stigmatized as infamous betrayers of their country and rebels
against the state; the town-clerk to record their names as such.”
— A second resolve expresses approbation of the doings of the
Prov. Cong.; a third proposes “ the reorganization of the military
companies of the town — the officers to be chosen by the mem-
bers ; ” a fourth and fifth authorize the newly elected officers “ to
demand the colors, halberts, drums, &c. in the name of the town
of any persons in whose hands found, any further supply needed
to be procured at the town’s expense, a competent person skilled
in military exercise to be employed to instruct the companies and
especially the minute company; ” a sixth threatens “ the resent-
ment of the town upon any who refuse duty; ” a seventh designed
“ to compel the payment of all moneys belonging to the Province
in the hands of collectors or constables, to the Receiver General
app. by the Prov.; ” and an eighth constituting Dr. Freeman, Jo-
seph Xye 3d, Seth Freeman, Simeon Wing, and Simeon Fish, a
com. to “ consider the recommendations of the Prov. and Continen-
tal Congresses, and report at an adjourned meeting.” An appro-
priation of £80 was made to enable the selectmen “to purchase
military stores.”
We need add nothing more in regard to the exciting
scenes of the latter part of the present year; only let
it be remembered that these were enacted when lib-
erty was treason, and when the halter, not laurels,
was the promised meed of patriotic daring.
It is not unusual, even after the lapse of three fourths
of a century, to hear it flippantly suggested that the
measures adopted by ‘the sons of liberty’ were too
stringent and savored of oppression. This, however, is
said without duly considering the artful, determined,
and malevolent course of the tories. It was natural
that loyalists should be regarded with suspicion; for
how could they sympathize with ‘the cause of their
country ’ ? This, indeed they were not required to do;
but they were expected to refrain from overt acts of
sympathy with the Crown in opposition to ‘ the patriot
cause.’ The question for the patriotic to decide, was,
‘ What is politic ? ’ It was necessary that the adherents120
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
to the Crown should be restrained. A different course
could hardly have been expected by the loyalists them-
selves. The policy was the same the loyalists would
most assuredly have instituted had they the upper
hand. If the only offence of the tories had been
loyalty, we might all deplore their misfortunes. It
may be said that they were generally honest in their
views. But the whigs were equally honest; and their
patriotism was reviled, and their lives were confidently
expected by their opponents as the forfeit Self-pro-
tection demanded the restraints they imposed. These
restraints evoked resentment, hate, revenge; and
prompt action and the utmost vigilance became indis-
pensable. Mr. Sabine has stated that not less than
20,000 loyalists took up arms against the revolutionary
struggle! In this town, for a time, parties were nearly
balanced. We confess, we envy not the moral sense
of the citizen who can at this day assert that his
sympathies are with the loyalists of that eventful period.
Of such, it may, doubtless generally, be said,
“ Look, how the father’s face
Lives in his issue.”
In 1775, Feb. 1, at a town-meeting, Dr. Freeman moderator, a
large com. was app. “ to see that the recommendation of the Con-
gresses be carried into execution:” viz. Nathl. Freeman, Steph.Nye,
Joseph]Nye 3d, Thomas Nye, Benj. Freeman, SilvanusNye, Joseph
- Lawrence, Lot Nye, John Percival, Simeon Fish, Nathl. Fish)
Simeon Wing, Jonathan Handy, Thos. Bourne Jr., Timothy Perry,
Thos. Swift, Elisha Ellis, Benj. Fessenden, and Eliakim Tobey. —
At a town-meeting, Ap. 24, Col. Nathl. Freeman1 being mod.,
“some fresh intelligence” was communicated “by Mr. Sampson,”
whereupon it was “voted that a watch be app. for the sea-coast,
and that watch-boxes be built at the several stations, and the
watchmen be paid 2 s. per night.” — Col. Freeman and Stephen
Nye were chosen to represent the town in the Prov. Congress
1 Dr. F. had this year been app. by the Council of the Province, Lt. CoL
of the 1st regiment of the county.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
121
to be held at Watertown on the 30 inst. — A resolve similar to
that passed by the Prov. Congress condemnatory of Gage, was
subsequently passed by the town and entered on its records.1—
It was also “ voted that 5000 bu. of corn be purchased by the
selectmen at the town’s cost to supply those that need.” — The
town assembled again, July 12, to appoint delegates to the Con-
gress to be held at Watertown on the 19th; and Col. Freeman
and Joseph Nye Jr. were chosen.
In 1776, Mar. 12, Jesse Barlow had “leave to turn the country-
road so as to accommodate the mill he proposes to build.”
At a meeting, June 21, it was “ voted that should the
Hon. Congress of the United Colonies declare these
Colonies independent of the kingdom of Great Britain,
We solemnly engage with our lives and our fortunes to
support them in the measure.”
It was voted, Aug. 9, that “ whereas sundry inhabitants advanced
£30 lawful money to procure men to go to Boston or the fortresses
adjacent, in the place of men required of this town* by the Coun-
cil, this sum be refunded.” — And, Oct. 9, it was “voted to pros-
ecute all who have neglected, or shall neglect to appear at military
musters as required by law.”
In 1777, May 2, it was “ ordered that Rev. Gideon Hawley and
Mr. Elisha Tupper be repaid out of the treasury the sums they are
respectively rated for lands in this town.” — At a meeting, June 30,
it was first “ voted that Rev. Mr. Hawley, now in town, be waited
on by Dea. Smith and Dea. Swift, and requested to open this meet-
ing with prayer.” Mr. H. attended and performed the service, when
the assemblage proceeded to business. A com. was chosen to
prevent monopoly, &c. — Mr. Silas Tupper was continued teacher
1 “ Voted that a resolve of the following tenor having been passed by the
Prov. Cong., viz.: ‘ WhereapCien. Gage since his arrival in this colony has
conducted as the instrument in the hands of an arbitrary ministry to en-
slave this people; and a detachment of troops under his command has
been ordered by him to the town of Concord to destroy the public stores ;
and by this clandestine and perfidious measure a number of respectable
inhabitants of this colony have without any provocation by them given
been illegally, wantonly, and inhumanly slaughtered by his troops: There-
fore resolved that the sd. Gen. Gage has by these and many other means
disqualified himself to serve this colony as its governor, and that no obedi-
ence ought in future to be paid to his writs, proclamations, or any of his
acts and doings, but that he ought to be regarded as an unnatural ^ and
inveterate enemy to the country: * — this town do unanimously acquiesce
in said resolve.”
VOL. II.	16122
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
of the town school. — At a meeting, Nov. 11, the families of sol-
diers in the country’s service from this town, requiring the public
sympathy, Mr. Seth Freeman was app. w to supply them for the
approaching winter.” — It was also “ voted that whereas there is
a considerable sum of bills of this and other states, in the hands of
the town treasurer, which bills it will be unlawful to offer in any*
payments after Dec. 1, the treasurer endeavor to get the sd.
money exchanged.” — The Confederation of the Colonies was
approved.1
In 1778, the small-pox in town caused much alarm. A “ pest-
house ” was provided, the roads near and around it were “ fenced-
up,” nurses who had had the disease were provided, a “ red flag
hung at the fencings,” all intrusion upon the grounds was prohib-
ited, and even cats and dogs running at large were killed to pre-
vent contagion. — Col. Freeman and Joseph Nye Esq. were cho-
sen reps. May 22; after which election, Mr. Seth Freeman being
mod., the Constitution or form of Govt, agreed upon by the Con-
vention of the State Feb. 28, “was distinctly read, and debated,
and finally approved,” ayes 86, noes 13, and the reps, were formally
instructed to give their vote for the same. Other matters of grave
interest, as was supposed, created the necessity of instructions
extraordinary.2—It was “voted that 8s. per night be allowed
1	“ Whereas the Hon. Continental Congress have published Articles of
Confederation and Perpetual Union to be entered into by the States in
America named ; and have recommended to the Gen. Assembly to invest
its delegates with competent powers ultimately to subscribe in the name
and behalf of the State such Articles of Confed. and Perpet. Union j and
whereas the Hon. House of Representatives of this State regarding the
matter of great importance, but beyond the usual course of business, have
recommended to the several towns to instruct their Representatives to act
and to do as their respective towns shall judge most for the advantage of
this and the other States ; and sd. Articles having been now read again in
town meeting: Voted that Joseph Nye Esq., our representative, be in-
structed to assent to sd. Confed. as proposed by Congress, we of this town
judging that it will be greatly to the advantage of this and the other
United States of America that sd. Confederation be ratified.”
2	These instructions were as follows: “ To Col. N. F. and J. N. Esq.,
Reps, for the town of S. for the ensuing year : Gent., By making choice of
you to represent this town in the Gen. Assembly, we have reposed great
confidence in your attachment to the cause of the country, and in your
abilities to serve it. We think it expedient nevertheless to mention some
things by way of instruction. At a time when every insidious measure is
being taken by the Br. ministry to divide us and to induce the continent to
relinquish their independence, we are anxiously concerned lest our public
councils be embarrassed by the admission of designing and inimical per-
sons as members. The late election for the town of--has justly excited
alarm. The choice of i a person who in every stage of the present con-
test with Gt. Britain has appeared not only as an opposer of all Congresses,ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
123
each man employed by the military officers on the watch; and
that Capt. Simeon Fish, Capt. Ward Swift, Lot Nye, Stephen
Nye, and John Smith be a com. to procure the number of
men required of this town for the continental army.”1 — It was
voted, June 9, that “whereas sundry persons in this town have
advanced £540 to hire 9 men to serve in lieu of 9 men detached
from the militia of this town for 8 mo. in the State of Rhode
Island, the sd. sum be raised by tax and refunded; ” and that
“ whereas Gideon Rose who was a soldier in the Cont. army is
reported dead, the agent for supplies of families of Cont. sol-
diers, continue to supply the family of sd. Rose.” — Voted, Sept.
8, “ to raise £1500 to defray the town and county charges for the
present year” — A proposal, Oct. 2, to raise £518.8 “to defray the
expenses of schools,” failed — the interests of education being
necessarily postponed to the crushing exactions of war.
The necessity for a nightly watch on the coasts was
imminent. The inhabitants were kept constantly on
the qui vive, not alone by reason of the annoyances and
depredations to which they were subject by an enemy
whose presence on the surrounding waters was of
daily observation; there was now reason to apprehend
continental or colonial, and of American independence, and as the head and
principal of the tory faction in this county, was a course of conduct that
appears to us characteristic of very few towns in this state. The danger-
ous plots against the state which have lately been discovered; the numbers
among us that have joined the enemy; the unfriendly disposition of many
in this county still among us; and the enemy’s ships frequently alarming
our coasts ; are circumstances that forebode danger, and we would have you
represent these matters to the Hon. Court, and the necessity of their point-
ing out some speedy method for guarding against these evils.’ Further we
think it our duty to instruct you to acquaint the Ho. of Reps, with the
political character and conduct of------------, and to use your influence that
neither he, or any other person of such dangerous political principles and
conduct shall be vested with a power by which the state shall be injured,
the House scandalized, and disaffection and jealousies excited. — We wish
for no unreasonable exemption from the public levies of men or money;
we wish to do our full proportion; but we think, considering the fact that
we have raised our full quota for the Continental army, and as many more
are now required of us, you should let the Court understand this matter,
and that whilst we desire no more than credit for the men we have raised
in a just proportion with other towns, we think it necessary as our men
are much drained off by the land and sea service and the circumstances
before related, that guards should be stationed in this county for our
present security.” Voted, “nemine contradicente”
1 These repeated requisitions called into the service many of the town’s
best men. At this time, among the volunteers, were William Handy, John
Freeman, William Bodfish, and William Nye.124
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
some grand demonstration verifying rumors, and ful-
filling the threatening taunts of the tory faction.1 —
Roland Cotton, Esq., died May 16.2
In 1779, the tory faction was not only subdued;
many of them had abandoned the town. The course
of the whigs had been resolute, and for a time not
unattended with danger—for their opposing towns-
men were maddened, and determinedly vindictive as
long as there was hope. Such as remained in town,
had now become gentle as lambs;3 numbers absent
were meekly suppliant4 Among the arrested, impris-
1	Such demonstration was intended when the Br. fleet left its position off
N. London, Sept. 4, commencing operations next day at N. Bedford and
Fairhaven, and on the 10th at Falmouth. We are sorry to record as
illustrative of the spirit which actuated the tories, that some of their num-
ber acted as guides to the enemy on these occasions.
2	Mr. Cotton, s. of Bev. Boland C., was a grad. H. C. 1719. He resided
in Woburn many yrs., and was Bep. of that town ; was also Clk. of the
Ho. of Bep. 1739-1753, and from 1759 to 1765 being succeeded in 1766
by Sami. Adams. Beturning to Sandwich, he was here elected Bep. in
1753 and other years. Whether he postponed marriage till late in life, we
know not. All that we do know of his family is from the Bost. Gaz. Oct.
20, 1760: “ On Friday the 3d inst. Boland Cotton Esq., Bep. for the t. of
S. and Clk. of the Hon. Ho. of Beps., was m. to Miss Deborah Mason of
this town, a very agreeable young lady and endowed with all those virtues
and accomplishments requisite to make the marriage state agreeable and
happy.”
3	Still, the old affront was long festering; and it maybe a question whether
its virus did not affect generations of descendants then unborn. Suffice
to say, among the posterity of these men have been leading men of divers
political parties. The descendants of refugees are to this day numerous in
the Br. Provinces. Some who joined the royal forces in Bhode Island,
took refuge in Long Island and other parts; and some returned by
permission.
4	It would occupy too much space to do more than refer to two or three
instances, as a sample of many : “ A letter directed, from the 4 prison-ship ’ in
Boston, to Col. Freeman, was communicated to the town, Mar. 11, and in
town-meeting it was “ voted that the town consent to the applicant, Capt.
----------, coming home, as he requests, on parole to visit nis family and
settle his affairs, under such limitations as the Gen. Ct. or Council shall
direct.” — An “ address ” to the town signed by----------, was also read,
and referred to the same com. that had charge of the former case; viz.: Col.
Freeman, Joseph Nye Esq., Lot Nye, Malachi Ellis, John Smith, Silv.
Jones, and Dr. Smith; who reported * that the case of the applicant is
peculiarly embarrassing through his own previous misconduct, but demands
pity; that if his present professions are the real sentiments of his heart
and his sincere resolution, he should be permitted to obtain a pardon and
return to his family and estate — provided all be done at such time and
under such circumstances as are consistent with the public safety and theANNALS OF SANDWICH.
125
oned, proscribed, or banished, were not a few belonging
to this town, whose names need not be repeated. The
record of them is not essential to a faithful exhibit
of the perils of the period.
It was voted, May 19, that £1000 be hired to meet the town’s
expenses. — On the petition of Seth Hall, a soldier of the Cont.
army, it was ordered that his family be supplied. — The following
action was had, July 5: “ Whereas the town is called upon to
raise 12 men by draft, lot, or voluntary enlistment to re-inforce the
Cont. army for 9 mos.; in which requisition the people called
Quakers are included, whose proportion is at least 3 of the 12 •
and as one or more persons of this town has lately enlisted —
reducing the number the town ought in equity to raise; Voted
that 8 men be raised, and that the town will advance to them such
encouragement as is proper.” Also “Voted that the town will in-
demnify the militia officers for any fine to which they may be lia-
ble for not drafting 12 men.” — Also, “Whereas the town is called
upon to furnish 4 men to serve in the State of R, Island, and one
person belonging here has already enlisted, Voted that 3 men be
raised for that service.” And “Voted that if the requisite number
of men to answer the call of June 8 and 9th are not obtained by
voluntary enlistment within one week, the captains of the military
shall proceed agreeably with the resolve of court.” Also “Voted
that this town will, to provide against inequalities of remuneration
and encourage enlistment, make just compensation for all such past
services—having regard to time, nature of service, and the value
of money at the time of payment; ” and that Col. Freeman and
others “ adjust this matter and report.”—The requisition for shoes
and stockings for the army was also referred.
A petition from Jas. Warren Esq. in behalf of the inhab. of
Plym. presented to the Gen. Ct., praying that sd. town may have
the right of taking herrings in the river running through this
town, or otherwise have liberty to take sd. fish in seines from the
pond, having been read together with a citation to this town to
show cause; it was “voted that Col. Freeman, Stephen NTye,
Benj. Fessenden, Maj. Bourne, and Seth Freeman Esq. be a com.
to answer sd. petition; and that Col. Freeman be agent for the
town, to defend its right in Gen. Ct.”
general good; and that our reps, be instructed to lend the applicant their
assistance.’ “ Adopted nem. con.”126
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Mr. Lot Nye was chosen delegate to the Convention for form-
ing anew Constitution.1 — The sum of £2550 advanced by the
com. for the quota of soldiers required of the town, was allowed;
as also the expenses of the com. £150. — The Convention at Con-
cord having recommended a tariff of prices, it was “ voted that
Seth Freeman Esq., Stephen Nye, Thos. Burge, John Perry, Jona.
Handy, Capt. Simeon Fish, John Ewer, Peleg Nye, and Silv.
Jones be a com. to state the prices of labor &c. according to the
5th resolve of the aforesaid Conv. of July 14; and that the regu-
lations be posted in the public houses.” A com. was also app.
“ to publish the names of all persons violating sd. regulations, that
the offenders may be dealt with.” 2
In 1780, Mar. 8, the town voted “ to petition for reimbursement
of expenses in support of the Indian poor.” — “That Indians, na-
tives, be allowed 2 bis. of herring to each family.” —And, May 12,
that Rev. Mr. Williams, Lot Nye, Dr. Thos. Smith, Col. Freeman,
1	The proceedings generally, of this meeting, were reconsidered, for causes
unknown. — We find also on record the following: “The proceedings of
the Convention held at Concord, July 14, being read, it was “ voted that this
town do approve of and adopt the result of sd. convention.” In reference
either to the object of this convention, or the expediency of being repre-
sented in it, when proposed, there seems by the record to have been some
difference of opinion; but at a late day, it was ordered “ That the select-
men inform the Prest. of the convention held at Concord, that this town
approves of the doings of that conv., and would have been represented had
it not been for the present deplorable situation of the town in regard to
the enemy, having been obliged to march for the defence of Ealm. on
alarm, and being in constant expectation of being again called upon.”
2	The schedule of prices fixed was as follows:
Ind. corn, pr. bu.,	£4.00.00.
Bye, “ “	5. 2.
Wheat, “ “	8.
Beef, pr. lb.,	. 4.
Mutton, “	. 4.
Cheese, “	. 6.
Butter, “	.12.
N. E. Rum, pr. gal.,	4.18.
do. pr. gill,	. 6.
Grog, pr. mug,	.16.
Oak wood, pr. cord,	8. 2.
Raw hides, pr. lb.,	. 4.
Sole leather,	1.10.
Men’s shoes, pr. pair,	6.12.
One axe,	7.10.
Eng. hay, pr. ton,	32.
Salt hay, “ “	16.
Oats, pr. bu.,	2.
do. pr. pottle,	. 5.
Potatoes, pr. bu.,	1. 6. 8.
Turnips, “ “	1. 8.
Salt,	7. •
B. Sugar, pr. lb.,	£0.14.
Molasses, pr. gal.,	4.	9.
Coffee, pr. lb.,	.18.	3.
Bohea Tea, “	6.
Chocolate, “	1.	4.	6.
Flax, “	.15.
Wool, “	1.	7.
Common labor, pr. d.,	2.
Mowing, pr. d.,	3.
Carpenter-work, pr. d.,	3.
Mason’s-work “ “	3.
Team : 1 ton, pr. mile,	1.	1.
Shoeing horses, around, 3.12.
Horse-hire, pr. mile,	. 4.
Horse-keeping, grass, pr. d.,	.12.
do.	hay, “ “	.18.
Boards, wh. pine, per M.,	43.
Shingles, “	“	14.
Inns: Dinner,	.15.
“ Supper,	.13.
“ Breakfast,	.13.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
127
Micah Blackwell, Simeon Wing, and Thos. Bourne Esq. be a com.
“ to take under consideration the Constitution agreed upon by the
delegates of the people and transmitted to the towns for their
acceptance.”
The requisition now being for 24 men additional from this town
for pub. service, it was voted, June 20, that the town will comply;
and the militia officers in conjunction with Col. Freeman, Messrs.
Micah Blackwell, Stephen Nye, and John Smith were app. “ to pro-
cure the men on the best terms possible.” At the same time “ a
petition to the Hon. Council and Ho. Reps, of the State of Mass.
Bay,” was adopted, the object of which was to secure equality
through the country in the burden of providing soldiers.1 At a
meeting, June 24, it was “ voted that the 24 men required of this
town under the new levy of June 5, be paid not exceeding $20 in
silver pr. month; and that in case men cannot be procured at that
rate, the town will indemnify the officers and pay the fines
incurred.” Also, “ that the com. be directed to apply to such of
* the Meeting of Friends ’ as are thought to have money to spare,
for a loan in case fines are imposed; and that in case they refuse
they shall be liable to be drafted.”2
The requisitions were now frequent, and beyond the ability of
the town to answer promptly. Another was made June 23 for 29
1	“ The petition &c. humbly sheweth: That the inhah. of the town of S.
have ever complied with the requisitions of the Gen. Ct. for the raising of
men and with as much alacrity as possible, and trust they have hitherto
answered the expectations of the Court: But they beg leave to represent
that they think themselves injured by being obliged to pay a part of the
fines of such towns as are deficient, having neglected or refused to comply
as this town hath done. Such is the case: some of the inhabitants of tnis
town who, though they cannot vote or have any influence in the town of
Barnstable, are liable to have their lands which lie within the limits of
Barnstable, taxed to pay a part of the fines imposed justly upon sd. town
for neglect to procure its quota. . . . The fault is not in any inhab-
itant of this town ; and we think they only who are guilty should be fined.
. . . Required in June to raise 16 men, they raised but 6 ; in conse-
quence of which that town has been fined £ 6000, and unless the Gen. Ct.
interposes, some of the inhab. of this town of S. who have already paid
their full proportion of our quota, must pay a part of the fine thus incurred
and the expenses of the two agents. ... We therefore humbly re-
quest . .	. that the towns that comply may not have cause to com-
plain that they fare worse than do those towns which do not procure their
men,” . . . &c.
2	These were trying times ; and if the Friends, who had throughout the
war enjoyed immunity from liability of being called to bear arms in defer-
ence to their conscientious scruples, and whose coffers were all this time
replenished whilst their neighbors had borne the heat and burden of the
day, had the abundant ability to help the town by a loan in this time of
need and extraordinary sacrifice j we presume the above vote will not be
considered as highly censurable.128
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
men, and yet another a few days after for 6 men. The town
assembled and “ voted to raise them, and assess the expenses as
required for the 24 men demanded on the 5th of June.” It was
further “ voted that if the men cannot be procured for the wages
offered by the town in addition to the wages paid by the State,
the town will submit to be fined.” — Again, Dec. 2, a requisition
for 22 men for 3 yrs., or during the war, was made; as also for
clothing and shoes; and, Dec. 18, the town after due considera-
tion, “voted to obtain a loan of £660 lawful money in silver or
gold for the purpose of complying with the call.” —Mr. Timothy
Bourne d. Oct. 5, ae. 77.1
In 1781, July 6, the town, to comply with the requisition of
June 16, voted $13 pr. mo. to each soldier to be raised, in addition
to government pay; and July 17 it was reported by the com. that
they had “ procured the 4 men to serve in Rhode Island,” but had
been obliged to promise “$20 pr. mo. to each, to be paid in sil-
ver.”— A call for 18 men for the Cont. army June 30, was, by
cause of some oversight in the State authorities, not communi-
cated until Sept. 5, when all the men capable of bearing arms were
employed in the defence of the coast. A com. was immediately
app. “ to represent to the Gen. Ct. the situation of the town, but in
the mean while to see what can be done.” — It was voted, Nov. 2,
“ that 4 d. pr. lb., silver, be paid for beef to answer the requisition
of the Court for 21,353 lbs.” It was found utterly impracticable
to procure the beef on any terms. A part was finally procured
and offered; but the agent of the Superintendent of supplies,
Jona. Howes, refused to receive any unless the whole quota was
forthcoming. He also refused the money tendered as a substitute.
In 1782, Jan. 11, the town’s rep. was instructed to use his utmost
endeavors “ to secure a strong appeal from the Gen. Ct. to Con-
gress for positive instructions to be given to Commissioners for
negotiating a peace, to insist on the right of the TJ. States to the
fisheries as an indispensable article of any treaty that may be
made.” — The town felt it incumbent to memorialize the Gen. Ct.,
setting forth the difficulties in the way of procuring the required
1 Mr. Bourne’s line of descent was from Mr. Richard, through Job
who d. 1677, Dea. Timothy b. Ap. 18,1666, who m. Temperance Swift, and
had Job, Benjamin, Joanna, Mehitable, and last Timothy Dec. 5, 1703.
By his m. with Elizabeth Bourne, he had Benjamin Jan. 25,1744, who grad.
H. C. 1764; and Sheaijashub Mar. 10, 1746.—Doct. Benjamin, the grad-
uate of 1764, by his m. with Hannah Bodfish had a large family, the 7th
being Benj. Esq. June 1, 1784, still surviving, who also has a large family.
Doct. B. was learned, somewhat eccentric, and a noted citizen living to old
age, and a man of large landed estate.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
129
quantities of beef for the Cont. army.1— It was voted, Jan 31, that
“ the selectmen be directed to apply to the Gen. Ct. for the wages
due the 3 months’ men of this town that are on the roll of Capt.
Matthias Tobey, which wages belong to the town — the town
having paid the men.” — Also “ that the assessors be a com. to use
their best endeavors to procure one or more constables on as rea-
sonable terms as possible.” 2 — It was voted, Mar. 14, that Brigadier
Freeman, Stephen Nye, Joseph JSTye Esq., and Dr. Smith be a com.
1 It was stated, in substance, ‘ that process, it was understood, was about
to be issued by the Superintendent of supplies of beef, against the town
treas., and money does not suffice to stay the execution: they are con-
strained, therefore, candidly to submit the facts in the case; that this town
is one of the places that by reason of its peculiar situation and suspension
of business, greatly suffers. We would not dwell upon the difficulties,
losses, and burdens we are called to encounter ; but we think the poverty
of our lands in general, the removal of great numbers of inhabitants, the
loss of the fisheries in which 180 men of this town were employed and
which was emphatically the source on which they depended for even the
means to pay taxes as well as to procure the necessaries of life never here
produced in sufficient quantities for the supply of the inhabitants ; together
with the fact that we have never been able to substitute other branches of
business to compensate the loss, should be considered by a govt, whose
justice and good policy is to afford relief rather than to oppress. Our
small stocks are exhausted; and yet, without the means of obtaining money
for urgent necessities, we have been fully impressed with the importance of
the cause in which our country is engaged, and have ever looked forward
with desire to the happy day when it shall enjoy peace, safety, and an unin-
terrupted commerce, and have struggled hard to comply with every requi-
sition of govt. Soldiers have been procured by our giving securities for
enormous sums. — As it was known to be impracticable to supply the beef
required unless it could be purchased elsewhere, a tax was ordered for the
whole sum with a view of either procuring it, or paying the amount in
money to the superintendent; but such has been the pressing demand upon
the constables for other taxes, they have been able to collect but a small
portion. About £4000 of the old emission was sent, but refused, though
received from govt.; and £ 7000 obtained on the credit of the town, the
agent also refused unless he could have the whole, and this it was not in
our power to obtain. Our stocks which with our houses and lands, are the
last resort, were exposed at auction, but few or no bidders appeared, Your
petitioners pray that the sum of £ 3882 received from govt, in pay for mile-
age, clothing &c. may now be received back into the treasury at the same
rate at which it was received from the treasury, viz.: 75 for 1; that such
abatements be made as we are entitled to under the last valuation; that
such sums as are due from govt, for the wages of 6 and 3 months* men
may be deducted from the gross amt. of our beef-taxes ; and that the sd.
execution may be stayed until further order from the Gen. Ct.: without
which we apprehend that many inhabitants will be driven to despair, and
those exertions discouraged winch they would yet continue to make.*
* As on this officer devolved the duty of collecting taxes, it was exceed-
ingly difficult to get any one to serve. Taxes had been so often assessed,
and so onerous were they, that they could not, in many instances, be col-
lected without occasioning distress. Hence the premium that must now be
offered for some shape of a man void of sensibility.
VOL. II.	17130
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
in conjunction with the selectmen “ to wait on the Commission-
ers app. by the Gen. Ct. to come into this county to view it; ”
and that sd. com. make such representations as shall be proper.
The representative was directed, Mar. 29, “ to endeavor to pro-
cure a law to prevent the destruction of hen-fish, alias peqhaugs,
in the bays and rivers — a law similar to that of 1765 for the pro-
tection of oysters.” — Action was also had to secure the enforce-
ment of existing laws for the preservation of shell-fish, “ against
interlopers from abroad.” — Persons were app. “to take every
legal method to prevent the estate now improved by widow ——
from being confiscated.”1
There were at this time numerous applications for permission
to refugees to visit their families yet remaining here ;2 3 * — requests
which could not be granted in extenso for reasons that are obvious.5
In 1783, Jan. 13, the rep. of the town was instructed not to
give his consent “ to half-pay being allowed officers dismissed from
the army.” — A correspondence was instituted, Feb. 3, with the
several towns in the county, proposing the choice of delegates at
the annual March-meetings, to assemble at the court-house in
1	Her husband had d. abroad, a refugee. Other and similar instances
induced the appointing of a com., the next year, “ to take into considera-
tion generally the subject of the estates of absentees,” whose families
might otherwise suffer. The circumstances of two widows are especially
mentioned: their husbands had died in the enemy’s service; then estates
were confiscate ; and the com. were directed to make such representations
to the court as might effect the postponement of further action, and restore
their families to the full possession of the property.
2	There certainly was exhibited a commendable disposition to extend
indulgence as far as was compatible with the public interests. The follow-
ing record appears, Oct. 28 : “ Whereas it is represented that there are a
number of persons that went from this town to Long Island, who have
manifested a desire to visit their relations here, Resolved that the authority
of the Govt, be solicited to grant permission to A. wife of B. C., D. the
wife of E. F., G. the wife of H. I., J. the wife of K. L., M. the wife of N. O.,
and P. Q. with such of their children as are under 15 yrs. of age, and also
to the children of R. S., to come to this town under a flag of truce, to visit
their Mends, subject to such restrictions as may not be incompatible with
the public safety. Voted, nem. con”—The alphabetical designations, we
need not perhaps say, are not initial distinctions.
3	The whigs and the country had full employment without granting
indulgences that might lead to extensive concert of action on the part of
the disaffected, and constant communications with the enemy. The people
seem to have been well disposed to toleration ; but if any think otherwise,
they must also admit that the tone's had been quite as intolerant and belli-
gerent. Those located in the Br. Provinces seem to have retained unfriendly
feelings towards the patriotic for a long time. As late as May 24, 1786,
the Boston Centinel records, “ The refugees in Nova Scotia continue to
exercise their cowardly malice on every person who may come that took
part with the U. States during the war.”• ANNALS OP SANDWICH.
131
Barnstable “ to represent to the Gen. Ct. the distressed condition
of the county at large, or of such towns as may agree to this pro-
cedure.” And, Mar. 5, Maj. Bourne, Stephen Nye, John Smith,
Melatiah Bourne Esq., Capt. Moses Allen, Joseph Nye Esq., and
Dr. Thos. Smith were app. on the part of this town “to attend
the proposed convention on the last Tues. of the month.” It was
also “ voted that the delegates to sd. conv. use their endeavors to
have the inferior courts reduced to two per annum.”
Certain inhab. of Plym. having petitioned to be annexed to this
town, the town’s consent was given. And, Mar. 12, “the consta-
bles were ordered to exert themselves to collect money enough to
satisfy the execution against the town, and were instructed, if they
must distress, to begin with those that are assessed highest.”1
The return of the blessings of peace, we have already
noticed, perhaps sufficiently for the brevity of local
history, in Yol. I. But we may be pardoned for a few
additional remarks. The success of the American
Revolution was the triumph of reason and of right;
of reason, for the public mind had long been familiar
with the topics of controversy, the revolution being,
in fact, in preparation long before the first blow was
struck; of right, for the people wished only to defend
their rights — there was no desire to plunder or spoil
— there were no resentments to be appeased only by
death or misery. The Colonies had long been treated
by the parent State with neglect, harshness, and injus-
tice ; and the people had not read without profit of
Pharaoh and his discomfiture. Master spirits having
invoked discussion and inquiry, the effect was gradual
and sure. The influence upon the masses, was acknowl-
edged by the readiness with which the many received
counsel from the lips of those ardent sons of liberty.
Had there been no master spirits, the cause would,
1 The necessity for this was greatly modified, if not entirely abrogated by
a special resolve of the Gen. Ct., Oct. 9, by which the loyal portion of the
community whose negative action in fiirnishing soldiers or pecuniary means
for the prosecution of the war was required to supply past deficiencies. The
requisition, no doubt, appeared to such persons severe ; but who will say it
was not just P132
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
indeed, have been hopeless. But the distinction had
begun early to be understood, between charters which
guarantee sacred rights, and charters which serve only
as a ligament between colonies and the king. The
people clearly saw relations existing for which no royal
charters could provide. They were no more to be sat-
isfied with grants of right from tyranny; they were
determined to receive their freedom no more as a gift
from sovereignty: they chimed it as theirs of right.
Thanks to an overruling Providence and to patriotic
leaders, the people had risen above all delusions fostered
hitherto by monarchists and despots. The goodness of
God should ever be gratefully confessed, who gave in
times of difficulty and danger, men of virtue and noble
daring to the counsels of the country. Some may
u decline so low from virtue ”
as, at the present day, to be incapable of discerning
its beauty, or of aspiring to its delights; but there are
few, probably, from whom the impress of Deity is so
wholly effaced.
What, had the patriots failed! What, had their stout
words fallen on faithless ears! What, had their votes
and resolves ended in mere bravado! The leading
spirits would not only have been doubly despised —
the scorn of deluded followers, and the butt of their
enemies’ derision; but military despotism would have
ensued and perpetuated its oppressive reign! We
would not inordinately herald their praise; we would
not by any poor words of ours assay to vindicate their
merit—the attempt would be preposterous as
" with taper-light
To seek the beauteous eye of Heaven to gamish.,,
They were not aspirants for place; but they would
have the people free. They were not invaders; theyANNALS OF SANDWICH.
133
were defenders of the right. They sought not their
own aggrandizement; they were intent, regardless of
peril or sacrifice, on vindicating to these Colonies a
place among the nations of the earth. Fearful, they
well knew, were the odds on the part of the oppressor;
but a sling and a stone had once conquered, and their
confidence was in ‘ the God of armies.’
Nor was the influence, as is too generally taught,
chiefly from the cities or larger towns; the sons of lib-
erty were found widely scattered. It has been well
remarked that a country thinly peopled, but salubrious
— its scenery grand, but retired from the bustle of
tempting impulses, is most favorable to development
physical and moral The revolution found the people
in the smaller towns, if not in advance of the age,
fully up with it; and in these towns were the strength
and vigor to sustain it “ Unpaid, unclothed, unfed,
tracked in the snows with the blood of their footsteps,
they turned not their faces to their country with resent-
ment, nor from their enemies in fear.” With all its
disadvantages of position and the encouragement with
which these disadvantages inspired the unhappy men
who clung to royalty, this town performed its full share
of the work. We claim no more: but this we may
unhesitatingly assert.
Mr. Ephraim Ellis died this year, June 4, aged 67;1
and Mr. Benjamin Fessenden, Oct. 24, aged 55.
In 1784, Aug. 8, the Eev. Abraham Williams, whose
pastorate, eminently peaceful and successful, had ex-
tended through a long course of years, died aged 58.2
1 Mr. Ephbaim Ellis was emphatically a good man. He was prob.
without ordination; but was much employed in preaching to the Indians.
Descended from Lt. John, by Matthias Sr., and Malachi who m. Jane
Blackwell Jan. 3, 1715-16, he was father of Malachi b. Mar. 6, 1738-9,
who m. Susanna Dennis of Rochester Nov. 7, 1759, and who was a soldier
of the revolution; and of Nat hi. who removed to Barnard, Vt.
* For notice of Mr. Williams, see Yol. L 565. We may not omit to134
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Elisha Bourne had liberty granted him to erect a dam across
Herring River under certain restrictions.
Of 1785, nothing remarkable is recorded. “Scragged Neck”
was the subject of dispute between the 1st or ancient parish, and
the Pocasset parish or 2d precinct. This controversy was of sev-
eral years’ continuance. — It was voted, May 12, that Gen. Free-
man, Maj. Bourne, Joseph Nye Esq., Stephen Nye, and Seth
Freeman Esq., be a com. “ to represent to the Gen. Ct. the pecu-
niary embarrassment of the town,” growing out of the late war.
In 1786, Mar. 8, a com. was chosen “to procure a grammar
school-master; ” and Ap. 3, another “ to consider the application
of the 2d Precinct for a part of the ministerial lands, and to report
whether the town can consent to act with said precinct in the set-
tlement of a minister; ” and also, May 10, another “ to receive the
continental money belonging to the town, and also that held by
individuals,” with a view of effecting an exchange. — Mr. John
Smith Jr. died this year Jan. 10, as. 55.
In 1787, April 18, the Rev. Jonathan Burr having
been called to the pastoral charge as successor of Mr.
Williams, was ordained. — The representative election
resulting in the choice of Messrs. Thomas Bourne and
Thomas Smith, was the subject of protest;* and the
mention a worthy and Christian man, one of two slaves that Rev. Mr. Wil-
liams brought with him to Sandwich — a man and woman—Titus Win-
chester. On his monument is written, 44 His fidelity to his earthly master
was only equalled by that which he constantly displayed to his Heavenly.”
After the decease of Mr. Williams, Titus followed the seas as steward for
some years, and by industry and economy acquired considerable property
which afforded him comfortable support in honored old age. The balance
of his property, he bequeathed to the parish, and from the interest of the
bequest the town clock was purchased. A writer in the Sandwich 4 Cape
Cod Advocate/ says, 44 While the memorial of Titus which will not decay
we may believe is in Heaven, so long as yonder clock shall tick we shall
have a memento of slavery and piety, freedom and benevolence, in the
history of an African who would not accept liberty during the life of the
faithful master and pastor by whom he was probably led to Christ.”
1 A protest was entered against the legality of the proceeding 44 for the
reasons that the meeting was not properly warned; that those who presided
were not constitutionally chosen; that persons not qualified by law wrere
allowed to vote, the Act of Wm. and Mary being the criterion for deter-
mining who were legal voters which Act is null and void, instead of the
Act of the Gen. Ct. passed Mar. 23, 1786, thus admitting persons to vote
who had not taken the oath of allegiance as also inhabitants of the District
of Marshpee ; that the constable who warned the meeting was not qualified,
not having taken the oath of allegiance; that the presiding officer, one of
the candidates for rep., unreasonably and arbitrarily refused to put a motion
to divide; that legal voters were refused •, that the meeting vras conductedANNALS OF SANDWICH.
135
representatives were instructed.1—Messrs. Thomas Smith
and Thomas Nye were chosen, Dec. 11, “ delegates to
the Convention to be holden in Boston in Jan. next.”
— Mr. Elisha Tupper, the missionary, died this year at
Pocasset, aged about 80.
In 1788, the question of the adoption of a new Con-
stitution, or Form of Government for the United States,
was decided in the negative, noes 73, ayes 3.2
in an unfair and unusual manner, the moderator saying, ‘ I will determine
votes as I please, and not as the objectors please ; ’ and that the town not
having so many as 375 ratable polls is entitled to but one representative.
Moreover, had the town been permitted to act legally, a different person
from either of the two said to be elected, would have been the choice of the
town.” Signed by
Seth Freeman,	Lemuel Pope*	John Percival,
Stephen Nye,	Sami. Fessenden,	Jas. Freeman,
Joseph Nye,	Nathan Nye Jr.,	Zenas Nye,
Ab. Williams,	Sami. Ellis,	James Faunce,
Elisha Pope,	Beni. Tobey,	Paul Gifford,
Heman Tobey,	Nathl. Bassett,	John Pope,
Cornelius Tobey,	John Tobey,	Moses Allen.
Melatiah Tobey,	Sami. Freeman,
1	These instructions were: “ To endeavor to have the Gen. Ct. removed
out of Boston; to have the Constitution revised; to purge the house of
all unconstitutional members; to endeavor to prevent the effusion of blood,
by causing peace and good order to be established in the State ; to have
salaries reduced; to reduce all public securities to the price actually given
for them ; to have State securities liable to taxation as others are; to have
large duties laid on all luxuries; to have clergymen taxed as others are;
to have the act suspending the privilege of ‘ habeas corpus ’ repealed; to
secure an act for the better regulating the business of the country ; to
have the mode of taxing better regulated; to prevent all grants to the col-
lege, and unreasonable grants to any man or body of men; and to secure
an Act to prevent the destruction of shell-fish in Buzzard’s Bay.”
2	The Confederation under which these States achieved their independ-
ence, was a league of sovereign states, but not the sovereign. It had
power to contract debts and to pledge the public faith; but it had no power
to levy taxes or impose duties for the redemption of the pledge. Its man-
dates had neither the sanction, nor the efficiency of supreme law. It was,
indeed, competent to declare war; but not to raise armies to carry it on.
It was authorized to make treaties ; but not to regulate commerce — their
most frequent and salutary object. It is fortunate that at this period when new
and antagonist parties had arisen and conflicting views were to jeopard the
fruit of our fathers’ toils, so many of the wise and good who had shared in
the perils of the revolution still survived to stand at the public helm and
direct the affairs of state. They had sought to establish a government for
the public good — a popular govt.; and its foundations they hoped would
be lasting — its structure cemented in the affections of free and equal sub-
jects, all having knowledge of its operations and a participation in its
exercise; but the perfecting work was yet to be done. There was danger
that conflicting views would array state against state ; and even an approx-136
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Applications continued to be made by persons who had become
aliens by reason of their predilection for royalty, for the privilege
of becoming a naturalized”1
In 1790, Jan. 19, the town offered “a bounty of $25 to any who
shall kill the wolf, catamount, or tiger, infesting this and the
neighboring towns and destroying sheep; which bounty was in-
creased to $30, Mar. 11, when it was “ordeied that if in the opin-
ion of the com.” to whom the subject was referred, “ a general
muster of the inhabitants be necessary to secure the depredator,
every able-bodied man be called to engage in the duty.” — Lib-
erty was granted “ to Elisha Bourne and associates to build a dam
across Manomet River for the purpose of setting up a forge or
other works.” — A review of the warrants addressed to the con-
stables at this time and subsequently, directing them, as afore-
time, “ to warn out of town ” new residents, shows that no excep-
tions were made. Among the ‘ warned,’ were some of the most
respectable.
We have now arrived at a period from which we
shall he less minute in our record of events; noting
only the more important, and leaving for the future
historian to diffuse minor matters that the records from
this date will render plain and perfectly intelligible.
imation to such an occurrence brought with it danger of rupture and disso-
lution and general paralysis. Diversity of local interests necessarily gave
rise to opposing wishes and opinions, the hope of the enemies of our coun-
try, the fear of its friends. These hopes, these fears, were arrested by the
Constitution. And yet, after the lapse of long years — after the work-
ing of the system has seemed to be perfect as is compatible with the frailty
of mortals, that Constitution is assailed! The fear has been expressed that
we shall become 4 the shame of the world/ the Union dissolved! that, then,
44 with vastly augmented power and lust of domination in some of the
States in comparison with the dangers from which the Constitution saved
the country, and irremediable disparity in others leading to aggression, to
war and to conquest, liberty will be buried in the same grave with the Con-
stitution ! Not a single evil remedied, but the number augmented by tens
of thousands.” — The contentions of 44 strangers who have never been
allied,” it has been truly remarked by the distinguished civilian, are not
like those of 44 brethren alienated, embittered, inflamed and irreconcilably
hostile.” The dissolution of the Union! 44 It is the highest imprudence
to threaten it, it is madness to intend it. If the Union we have cannot
endure, the dream of the revolution is over, and we shall waken to the cer-
tainty that a truly free government is too good for mankind.”
1 Upon application, and after reference to a com. who reported favorably,
Ap. 7, 1788, it was 44 voted that, as it appears that no disadvantage will
accrue to the State or town by permitting T. U., V. W., and X. Y., to be
naturalized, this town recommends them as good subjects ; and that Abra-
. ham Williams, Stephen Nye and Geo. Allen be a com. to petition the Gen.
Ct. in their behalf.”ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
137
In 1792, the privilege of erecting, under proper restrictions, a
saw-mill at the mouth of the Herring Pond, was granted to Benj.
Bourne and others; also “ of setting up a forge or other works.” —
The depredations of the wolf seem to have continued to the pres-
ent time; “ a general muster of the inhabitants ” was ordered, “ for
his destruction ”
In 1794, Nathaniel Freeman Jr. Esq. received the
unanimous vote, save one, as representative to Con-
gress. — The vote on the revision of the Constitution,
May 6, 1795, was unanimously in favor. — In 1796,
May 2, in special town-meeting, Gen. Freeman being
moderator, it was “ voted that the true spirit and mean-
ing of the Constitution ought to be strictly adhered to; ”
and that “this town do place full confidence in the
wisdom and integrity of the House of Representatives
in Congress respecting the Treaty lately negotiated
with Great Britain” — In 1797, an ineffectual effort
was made to divide the town; the movers desiring to
include Monument, Pocasset, and some other portions
in a new township.
In 1800, the disputes which affected many parishes in the State,
touching “ the compensation to ministers on account of a depre-
ciated currency and the increased expenses of living,” did not fail
to interrupt for a time the tranquillity of this town also. These
were amicably adjusted here, Nov. 3, by the unanimous vote “to.
stipulate the clergyman’s salary by the principal necessaries of life}
so as to make the compensation equal to what it was at the time
of the ordination of the Rev. Mr. Burr.”—Mr. Joshua Hall d.Feb.
24.1 Hon. Nathaniel Freeman Jr. d. Aug. 22. (See Vol. 1.561.)
1 Mr. Joshua Hall was b. in Dennis 1716. By his m. with Temperance
Nye Oct. 4, 1744, who d. Nov. 27, 1803 se. 77, he had Mary Sept. 10, 1745
who m. Benj. Nye Jr. Dec. 3, 1765 ; Elisha Aug. 21, 1747; Stephen Dec.
4, 1749; Mehitable Mar. 9, 1752 who m. Lemuel Bassett May 21, 1772 and
2d David Parker; Thankful July 27, 1754 who m. John Knowles Mar. 15,
1774; Joanna Nov. 8, 1756 who d. unm. Dec. 3, 1777 ; Lydia June 18,
1759 who d. unm. May 16, 1790; Joshua Dec. 16, 1761; Joseph June 10,
1764; and Temperance Dec. 31, 1769 who m. Doct. Jonathan Leonard
May 10, 1796.—Elisha, b. 1747, m. Deliverance Bassett Oct. 20, 1768,
and had Jonathan May 17, 1769; and Elisha May 2, 1771. His widow m.
2d Isaac Knowles of E. — Stephen, b. 1749, m. Mary Freeman of E. Mar.
19, 1776, and 2d Cath. Davis of Be. Nov. 22, 1789, and had Gideon and
VOL. II.	18138
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1801, May 14, the town consented to a canal
across the Isthmus of the Cape, for the construction of
which application was being made to the legislature
by sundry persons for incorporation. — The boundary
between this town and Barnstable was renewed; also
between this town and Marshpee.
In 1803, Melatiah Bourne Esq. d., Feb. 21, ». 68.
In response to the petition of Rev. Jonathan Burr
and others, “ Sandwich Academy was established ” Feb.
21, 1804, “and a Corporation of Trustees1 provided,
for the purpose of promoting piety and virtue and for
the education of youth in such languages and in such
liberal arts and sciences as the trustees shall order and
direct” A grant of one half-township of six square
miles, of unappropriated lands in the District of Maine,
was made by the legislature “for the use of said
Academy — on condition that $3000 be actually raised
and secured” from other sources for the endowment
of the same.2 Nathaniel Freeman Esq. was authorized
others, and d. Sept. 15, 1828. — Joshua, b. 1761, m. Eunice Winslow of
H. Nov. 1790, and had Winslow and others, and d. July 14, 1835.—
Joseph, b. 1764, m. Abigail Young of O., and had Joseph, Nehemiah, and
Nabby Y.—Jonathan, g. s. of Joshua, b. 1769, m. Abigail Bascom, dr.
Rev. Jona. of O., Oct. 9,1794, and d. Mar. 19,1806. They had Temperance,
Elisha, Jona. B., Delia, Charles.
1 The trustees named in the Act of Incorporation were:
“ Rev. Jonathan Burr,
Hon. Nathl. Freeman,
Dr. Jona. Leonard,
Wendell Davis Esq.,
Jas. Freeman Esq.,
Mr. Wm. Fessenden,
Rev. Henry Lincoln,
Rev. Oakes Shaw,
Mr. Wm. Bodfish,
Rev. Levi Whitman,
Rev. John Simpkins,
Richard Sears Esq.,
David Scudder Esq.,
Rev. Nathan Stone,
Thos. Thacher Esq.,
Rev. Jude Damon,
Mr. Steph. Bassett,
Thos. Jones Esq.”
It wift be understood that a majority of this Board (10 out of 18) were
residents in other towns ; Falm., Barnstable, Wellfleet, Brewster, Chatham,
Dennis, Yarm., and Orleans being represented. It was designed to be a
County institution, and as such was regarded. In the preliminary meetings
held by prominent gent, in the county, for consultation — it being under-
stood that this county was entitled to an appropriation of lands for an
institution of learning — the decision was made that this town should be its
location, with particidar reference to the preeminent qualifications of Rev.
Mr. Burr as a finished scholar and successful instructor.
2 This sum was provided by the subscriptions of many persons in this
town and others in the county; the subscribers giving their notes under aANNALS OF SANDWICH.
139
by said Act of General Court a to appoint the time and
place of holding the first meeting of the Board of
Trustees and to give notice of the same.” For several
years after the opening of the academy it was among
the most noted, flourishing and useful institutions of
the kind in New England. To the Rev. Mr. Burr,
more than to any other individual, are the establish-
ment and high reputation of this school at its start
to be attributed.1
In 1805, Oct. 24, d. Mr. John Nye;2 and 1806, Feb. 25, Mr.
Sturgis Nye.8
In 1807, the bounds between this town and Falmouth were
renewed. — The town petitioned the legislature “ for the better
government of the Herring Pond and Marshpee Indians;” the
system hitherto pursued having, in the opinion of the town, been
“needlessly expensive without corresponding advantage to the
governed.” — The Rev. Gideon Hawley d. this year, Oct. 3.4
supposed guarantee that their beneficence would secure to their children
and to posterity the enjoyment of superior academical privileges. .
1	Mr. Burr was not only a fine scholar, but greatly interested, con amove,
in the cause of education. His ‘ Compendium of English Grammar ’ long
occupied a position in schools, widely and almost universally as did Noah
Webster’s Spelling-book, and was highly appreciated.
2	Mr. John Nye was father of the late Capt. John Nye of the Army 1812,
and from him is descended Gen. James W. Nye at present Gov. of Nevada
Territory.
3	Mr. Sturgis Nye was son of Joseph Nye Esq., one of the most active
men of the town during the revolutionary period.
4	We have already said much of Mr. Hawley, in our chapter on Marsh-
pee, Vol. I.; and we the more gladly refer again to this venerable man, not
only because, though residing among the people of his charge, he always
claimed and had conceded to him the right of franchise in this town ; but
that we may note some matters that have recently fallen under our eye.
To the patronal ear of the N. E. Historic Gen. Soc., a paper has recently
been read, and has since gone before the public, written by one who pro-
fesses to have made Indian relics a subject of inquiry ; setting forth that on
Cape Cod certain hearths have been discovered, called ‘ Indian hearths ’ —
which qualifying appellation he regards as a misnomer inasmuch as, accord-
ing to his views, the Indians never construct paved hearths, but scoop a
hole in the earth and build their fires in that; and, to account for the exist-
ence of these hearths found here, the gentleman supposes them to have
been built by * the Northmen1 alleged by Danish antiquarians to have dis-
covered the country in the tenth century. The theory is ingenious — sup-
posing the premises to be correct; and to support that theory he argues
that Vineland must not only have been an island near Cape Cod, but that
upon the Cape itself they landed and constructed these hearths. We do
not understand him to assert that Cape Cod was the island; for he inti-
mates that the island may have disappeared, through the action of the sea140
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1808, the embargo restrictions were severely felt, as also in
the succeeding year.
The Academy had now probably reached the height
of its prosperity, under the educational charge of that
eminent instructor, Elisha Clap A. M. as preceptor,1 and
Miss Bathsheba Whitman as preceptress.2 Religious
dissensions now beginning to be rife in Massachusetts,
did not fail to affect the hitherto generally united and
prosperous congregation of which the Rev. Mr. Burr
— which supposition he endeavors to support by reference to geological
changes. It is true that some islands have disappeared; and it is also
true that some parts of the formerly main land have become islands, as, for
instance, Scraggy Neck in this town. But, unfortunately for the theorist, it
remains to be disproved that the Indians of Cape Cod did construct paved
hearths. Mr. Kendall, an English traveller of correct observation and much
candor, assures the public that such hearths were in use among the Indians
of Marshpee as late as 1807 when he visited the tribe. Although he found
but one or two wigwams, the 400 inhabitants then existing having generally
adopted the habits of the white people around them ; still in some instances
where English houses in other respects were in use, the smoke was allowed
to pass through a roof without chimney, the fireplace or hearth being built
of brick. Mr. K. had good opportunities for investigation; for Mr. Hawley
was yet living: “ I found Mr. H. infirm and far advanced in years, but I
received from him a hospitality and welcome most fervent and gratifying.
I remained two nights in his house, and experienced much attention, not
only from himself, but his family also; and these circumstances have per-
haps made the more impression upon me, because I had not reached Boston
before I learned that he was dead.”
Whilst on this subject of “ relics,” we may as well forestall the tempta-
tion that might otherwise beset some future antiquarian to make a mar-
vel of hieroglyphics upon rocks in Sandwich woods. They have, indeed,
already become the wonder of some; especially the engravings upon a
rock near Round-swamp. Possibly these annals may survive, and perad-
venture may be consulted in future years ; and if they chance to meet the
eye of a zealous antiquary who shall be ready to pronounce the engravings
Runic, and to think he has found proof presumptive and almost posi-
tive that Erik, or Biarne, or Thorstein was here, let him be advised that
this town long years ago was the home of a lovelorn swain — belonging to
a good family — who spent his hours chiefly
“in leafy grove, or forest dense,”
chiselling rude monuments of his passion.
1	Mr. Clap was a grad, of H. C. 1797. As an able teacher he was
greatly distinguished, and among his pupils were many who became emi-
nent men. Born in Dorchester June 25, 1776, he m. Mary, dr. of Hon.
Rt. Treat Paine one of the signers of the Dec. In and d. iu Boston Oct.
22, 1830.
2	Miss Whitman was a most indefatigable and accomplished preceptress.
She was from Bridgewater, dr. of Dea. John Whitman who lived to be
over 106 yrs. of age. She d. at Bridgewater at a very advanced age,
beloved and highly respected.	*ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
141
was pastor; nor did unanimity characterize the admin-
istration of the affairs of the Academy as heretofore.1
This seemed the only impediment to increased pros-
perity. Large numbers resorted hither from all parts
of the land, for instruction. In a year or two, as dis-
putes and animosities increased, the number of pupils
in the Academy began sensibly to diminish ; and so
rapid was the decline that, before the close of the cor-
poration’s first decade, it was evident a fatal blow
1 The year 1808-9 was a season of unusual attention to religion, and 115
persons were added to the church—a very large proportion of whom were
heads of families. As the religious interest increased, so did opposition to
the pastor and to the doctrines preached by him. Mr. Burr, when settled,
was doubtless an Arian—but classed with those whose general religious
sentiments were Arminian. A change of views involved a change in paro-
chial instructions, and aroused opposition. Mr. Clap, a licensed preacher,
was in the habit, by previous arrangement with the pastor, of taking the lead
in public worship m Sandwich village every sixth Sunday when the pastor
officiated in the meeting-house at Monument. Mr. Clap’s religious views
were in unison with the opposition, and uncompromisingly against Calvin-
ism. The Board was, at this time, very fairly constructed, consisting of
Barnstable.
Hon. John Davis,
David Scudder Esq.
Falmouth.
Rev. Henry Lincoln,
Thos. Jones Esq.
Chatham.
Richard Sears Esq.
Brewster,
Rev. John Simpkins.
But Mr. Burr and others, in consequence of the religious dissensions
which were now entering into the action of the Board, resigned their seats
as trustees, and as vacancies occurred they were filled by the choice of per-
sons of the town, so that in a short time the Academy was under direction
wholly local and sectarian. The public interest in the institution was at an
end, and the ample endownent, with the once bright prospects of Sandwich
Academy, passed under a cloud ; so that when the inquiry has been made
in later years respecting the endowment, echo but repeats the question. No
regular provision has been made for academic instruction these many years,
and the present building stands as if chiefly to remind the passer-by of the
once splendid career of its predecessor. — We take pleasure in saying that,
since the preceding lines were penned, we are assured that under the pru-
dent management of Dr. Harpur of the present Board, some portion of the
funds are saved and in course of accumulation.
the following, (with two vacancies :)
Sandwich.
Hon. Nathl. Freeman, Pres.,
Rev. Jona. Burr,
Dr. Jona. Leonard,
Steph. Bassett Esq.,
Hon. Wendell Davis,
Jas. Freeman Esq.,
Wm. Bodfish Esq.,
Mr. Wm. Fessenden, Treas.,
Mr. Elisha Clap, Sec.
Yarmouth.
Elisha Doane Esq.142
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
forbidding all hope of its future prosperity had been
inflicted upon the institution.
In 1809, Mr. Elisha Pope Sr. died, Feb. 1; Deacon Thomas
Bassett, in May;1 Capt. Samuel Smith, June 17, also Wil-
liam Bodfish Esq.2
1 Dea. Thomas Bassett, b. Jan. 4,1717-18, (see Vol. 1.351,) m. Patience
Tobey Feb. 13,1746 ; and 2d wid. Hannah (Sturgis) Jennings Mar. 15,1775,
had issue: Lemuel Feb. 26, 1747 who m. Mehit. Hall May 21, 1772;
William July 6, 1749 who m. Mary Smith Mar. 24, 1774 ; Cornelius June
24, 1754 who m. Abigail Smith and went to Lee; and Deborah Nov. 1,
1766 who m. John Smith 1786.—William had Patience Dec. 12, 1774
who iq. Levi Nye May 10, 1795; Abigail Ap. 12, 1778 who m. Joshua
Tobey Dec. 1, 1799 ; Thomas Nov. 17, 1780 who m. Abigail Swift 1810;
John Jan. 8, 1783 who m. Lucy Fessenden 1812, and 2d Lucia Dillingham;
William July 26, 1775 ; Mary Jan. 12, 1788 who m. Frs. F. Jones 1810 ;
Charles Oct. 2, 1790 ; Nathan July 27, 1793 ; and Henry T. July 28, 1801.
8 Mr. Bodfish being a trustee of Sandwich Academy and also a military
man, these circumstances aside from his position otherwise, made his obse-
quies unusually imposing — the pupils of both departments of the Academy
with their teachers and the trustees preceding the corpse, as also the mil-
itary, in the funeral procession. For the likeness which appears on the
opposite page, our acknowledgments are especially due to his grandsons,
Mr. William Bodfish of W. Greenwich, R. I., and Mr. Robinson Crocker
Bodfish of New York ; (to the latter we are under many obligations because
of his patriotic interest in a faithful record of historical events — an ardor
not inferior to his filial regard for ancestry.) Mr. B., more familiarly
known by his military prefix, was descended from one of the earliest and
most conspicuous of the first settlers. None of the name now remain in
town; the branches of the family are widely dispersed. As veterans in
genealog. investigations have not succeeded to their own satisfaction in
demonstrating some matters of pedigree in relation to this family, we will
not be expected to determine them beyond doubt; but we think the follow-
ing is reliable : — The ancestor, Robert Bodfish, was early of Lynn, a
freeman May 5, 1635, and in Sandwich 1637. He wus one of the six men
(“ Geo. Allen, John Vincent, Wm. Newland, Rt. Bodfish, Anthony Wright,
and Rd. Bourne ”) deputed by the town to conclude articles of agreement
with Edmund Freeman, whereby, being “ acquitted of all damages by rea-
son of his buying the purchase,” the latter, Feb. 26, 1647, assigned to these
men representing the interests of the town, the entire purchase made of
Gov. Bradford and associates. A Robert Sr. and Robert Jr. were in Lynn
1635, and there cannot be much doubt that these were father and son, both
coming to S., the latter soon removing to Barnstable. The eldest was
licensed “ to draw wine in S.” 1644, and filled sundry positions of trust;
but d. Nov. 19, 1651. His wife, Bridget, is mentioned without name as a
widow 1652, and as no record is made in S. of her decease, the presumption
is that she became, Dec. 15, 1657, the 2d w. of Mr. Samuel Hinckley,
father of Gov. H. The children of Robert 1st, we suppose, were Robert
Jr. who removed to Be., Elizabeth, and Sarah. It should here be noted
that a John Bodfish was of S. 1641, and a John Sr. is mentioned 1675, of
both whom nothing further appears on the records. A birth of one, name
illegibje, is mentioned Mar. 27, 1648. Mr. Savage says Elizabeth m. John
Crocker, 2d w., Nov. 1659; and Sarah m. Peter Blossom June 4, 1663.
But Mr. Otis says it was Mary who m. Crocker 1659. Mr. O. says “ Robert
did not become an inhabitant of Be.” We have supposed that Robert Jr.3.UEOR 1st 1758I).JUNE 17th 1809 .
L:ir, of SavoroAIaror &. Knapp 443 Broadway 1' .'iANNALS OF SANDWICH.
143
In 1810, the amount raised for schools was $500. — Mr. Ste-
phen Nye d. July 6, ae. 90.1
In 1811, leave was “granted to Samuel Wing and others to erect
a dam and works of a cotton-factory, on the stream between the
upper and lower ponds in Sandwich village, at a place near Wolf-
trap Neck so called.”
did remove to Be., and had in S., before removal, Joseph b. Ap. 3, 1651.
Robert was in Be. 1660, and it is said the family removed thither 1657. It
may be that all these were children of Rt. 1st. Be that as it may, Joseph,
of Barnstable, m. Elizabeth Bessey June 1674, and had John Dec. 6, 1675 ;
Joseph Jr. Oct. 1677 ; Mary Mar. 1*4679 who m. Josiah Swift of S. Ap.
19, 1706; Hannah May, 1681 who Rd. Thomas; Benjamin July 20,
1683 ; Nathan Dec. 27, 1685; Ebenezer Mar. 10, 1687-8; Elizabeth Aug.
27, 1690 who prob. m. Reuben Blish Jan. 25, 1717; Rebecca Feb. 22,
1692-3 who m. Benj. Fuller Mar. 25, 1714; Melatiah Ap. 7, 1695 who m.
Samuel Fuller June 20, 1725 ; Robert Oct. 10, 1698 ; and Sarah Feb. 20,
1700 who m. Joseph Smith Jr. Mar. 8, 1727. The father of this family d.
Dec. 2,1744 ae. 94. — John, eldest of the preceding family, removed to this
town from Be. and m. Sarah Nye of S. May 24, 1704. Issue : Mary Mar.
9, 1705-6 in S. who m. Wm. Freeman Dec. 6, 1726; John Feb. 5, 1708-9 ;
Hannah Sept. 23, 1711 who m. Zeph. Hatch of R. I. Ap. 3, 1735; Joanna
Oct. 22, 1714 who d. Jan. 20, 1735-6 ; Sarah Mar. 21, 1717 who m. Eben
Hatch 2d of Falm. Mar. 3, 1742; Elizabeth Mar. 30, 1720-1 who m.
Nathan Nye Jan. 29, 1747 ; and Joseph Sept. 20, 1725. — Joseph, of S.,
youngest of the preceding, m. Mary Ellis Sept. 5, 1745, and had Sylvina
June 19, 1746 who m. Silas Hatch 1767; Nathan Mar. 19, 1748; Hannah
Jan. 18, 1750 ; Nymphas May 5, 1752 who removed to Maine ; Mary Dec.
30, 1754 who m. James Chrystie Dec. 25, 1785 ; Joseph Oct. 9, 1756; and
William Dec. 1, 1758. — William Esq., youngest of the last, m. 1st.
Lois Nye of F., dr. of Sol., 1784, who b. Mar. 15, 1761, d. Dec. 9, 1793,
and 2d Abigail Fessenden of S., dr. of Mr. Benj. Ap. 14, 1794, who b.
Feb. 26, 1764, d. Aug. 21, 1852. Issue: Sally D. Mar. 15, 1788 who d.
Ap. 3, 1843; William Ap. 4, 1789 ; Joseph Nov. 13, 1790 who d. Sept. 12,
1809 ; Loisa N. Sept. 30, 1793 who m. Wm. Eldridge of R. I. 1819 and d.
1821; Sylvina H. Oct. 6, 1796 who m. Rev. Benj. Haines 1846; Nathan
June 22, 1799 who d. in N. Orleans ; James H. June 6, 1801 who m. Eliza
Hobbs Nov. 26, 1829 and d. Mar. 14, 1850; Abigail F. Dec. 29, 1802 who
m. Rd. Edwards Jr. Oct. 29, 1827 ; Thomas F. Sept. 13, 1804 who d. Nov.
21, 1817; and Russell S. Dec. 14, 1805 who m. Sarah J. Coffin of Nan-
tucket Ap. 24, 1828. — For further gen., see Barnstable and Falmouth. —
The gentleman whose portrait we present, was of a social and generous dis-
position, public spirited and enterprising. Largely engaged in commercial
pursuits, his encouragement of ship-building and maritime adventures
imparted to these departments of industry a prominence that gradually
declined after his decease and has never been renewed to the same extent.
He represented the town in the Gen. Ct. seven years, and was also
Jus. Pac.
1 Mr. Stephen Nye, active and patriotic in the revolutionary period,
was son of Nathan who m. Dorothy Bryant Ap. 12, 1715, and had Rebecca
Nov. 26, 1715; Mary Ap. 26, 1718 ; St'ephen June 6, 1720; Nathan Oct.
13, 1722 who was father of Peleg, Peter, Nathan, Nathaniel, &c.; Deborah
Oct. 5, 1726; and William Sept. 1, 1733 who was the father of Elisha. —
Stephen m. Maria Bourne June 7, 1744, and had Elisha Ap. 27, 1745 who
m. Lucy Tobey Ap. 2, 1767, and removed to Maine; John Dec. 22, 1746
who resided at Monument; Nathan Jr. Feb. 20, 1749 who m. Hannah144
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Certificates, under ‘the Religious Freedom Act,’ began
now to be lodged with the town clerk, by inhabitants
claiming to be members of the Methodist Society;
“the Methodist Society of Sandwich and Falmouth”
having been incorporated Feb. 28. — The connection
of Rev. Mr. Burr as pastor of the ancient Congrega-
tional Parish, was dissolved Sept. 5. Lord Bacon has
well remarked, “The greatest vicissitude of things is
the vicissitude of sects and religions: the true religion
is built upon a rock; the rest are tossed upon the waves
of time.”
Gideon Hawley Esq. and Ms estate were tMs year set off from
Marshpee to tMs town.—Mr. Motto Bryant d. Ap. 10; and Mr.
Malachi Ellis d. June 23. — The sudden death by casualty of an
enterprising young ship-builder, James Ghrystie Jr., Nov. 9, was
the occasion of deep sympathy.1
The declaration of war in 1812 found the inhabitants
here, as in other towns, divided in regard to great
national questions with the usual amount of party zeal
and acerbity.—Seth Freeman Esq. died July 19, aged 81.
In 1813, certificates were lodged, March 5, in behalf
of a large number of persons, 159, as members of a
religious association called the Calvinistic Congrega-
tional Society. These were adherents to the ministry
of Rev. Mr. Burr.2— Succeeding him as minister of the
Butler Dec. 10, 1772, and Sarah (Fessenden) Allen May 15, 1796, and was
many years selectman of the town ; Hannah May 10,1751 who m. Tobey of
Macnias; Stephen Jr. Ap. 30, 1753; Susanna and Abigail, gem., July 27,
1755 the latter of whom m. Motto Bryant; Jonathan Nov. 27, 1757 ; Wil-
liam Nov. 24, 1760; Zenas Mar. 31, 1763 who m. Mary Freeman Feb. 10,
1785 ; Rebecca Jan. 24, 1766 who m. Paul Gifford; Christina Ap. 1769;
and Sabria.
1 He was killed by the falling of a mast which he was engaged in placing
in position; and the fact that he was expecting to be married within a few
days, gave intensity to the general regrets. He was s. of James Chrystie
Sr., long time a noted master shipwright, who m. Mary Bodfish Dec. 5,
1785, and had James Jr. Nov. 25, 1786 ; Mary Mar. 10, 1788 who m. Benj.
F. Lombard of Boston Sept. 20, 1808 ; Lois Ap. 3, 1791; George Nov. 28,
1792; and Esther Mar. 20, 1795 who m. John Fessenden. Mr. C. was of
Scotch extraction.
* The contest which resulted in the dismission of the Rev. Mr. Burr from
the 1st Parish was long and severe. The parties were -finally pretty evenlyANNALS OF SANDWICH.
145
First Parish, was the Rev. Ezra S. Goodwin, ordained
March 17.—Mr. Branch Dillingham died April 21.
In 1814, Feb. 26, an Act incorporating William Fes-
senden Esq. and others under the title of “ the Calvin-
istic Cong. Soc. in Sandwich,” was passed by the legis-
lature, the first meeting to be called by Nathl. Freeman
Esq.; and said society was soon duly organized.
A com. of public safety was app., June 27, the movements of
the enemy on the surrounding waters constantly threatening de-
struction of property; and sd. com. was authorized to apply to the
proper authorities for a detachment of the militia of the town to
guard the shores. — Contributions having been forced from some
of the towns, and being demanded of others, by the enemy, as the
condition on which towns would be exempt from conflagration
and private or public property from depredation, it was here voted,
Sept. 20, that “ in case of any attack by the enemy we will defend
the town to the last extremity.” Application was made to the Gov.
and Council “ for 50 stand of arms and 2 six-pound field-pieces
with ammunition and equipments” also “for 150 soldiers to be
stationed in the town ready for any emergency.” — Wm. Drody
d. this year, Oct. 6, ae. 30.1
In 1815, the selectmen were instructed to petition the legisla-
ture for the repeal of the Act connecting the Counties of Dukes
and Nantucket with Barnstable County for the choice of senator.
— The remarkable storm of Sept. 23 has been already noticed in
our first volume.2
balanced, only two or three majority being obtainable for the dissolution of
the connection. In the church it was otherwise ; 99 members (44 males
and 55 females) adhered to their pastor, and 14 were opposed. By legal
technicalities, the minority of the church retained the church temporalities
.and records. The majority claimed to be the ancient church, holding “ that
a church is a distinct body from the parish, independent of it for its exist-
ence and the exercise of its discipline and rights.” By Councils this claim
was sustained; but by the Sup. Court was overruled. The funds of the
church, chiefly the accumulations from sacramental contributions, went,
therefore, into the hands of the minority !
1 Drowned by accident on board a vessel in the Bay. The father of Mr.
D., Samuel, was Scotch-Irish, and wa3 twice married. By the two wives,
Sarah and Sylvia, he had Samuel May 16, 1782 who m. Mary Nye Nov. 22,
1803 ; William Mar. 5, 1784 Charles Ap. 18, 1787 ; Sarah Aug. 8, 1789 ;
Thomas Jan. 25, 1792; Allen G. June 6, 1794; James; and Sylvia Jan.
11, 1802. — Charles b. 1787, m. Betsy Nye, dr. Wm., and had Charles
Mar. 31, 1818; Deborah N. Mar. 20, 1821; James C. May 28, 1823 ; Sarah
M. Mar. 2, 1828; and James C. Oct. 21, 1825.
8 The only loss df life in this town by that storm was of a young woman,
VOL. II.	19146
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1816, the country being again free from the tur-
moil of war, business began to resume its wonted chan-
nels. — Hon. James Freeman, high sheriff of the county,
died Jan. 10.
In 1817, the Rev. Mr. Burr requesting it, his con-
nection with the people of his charge was dissolved;
not in consequence of any disaffection, for the society
was perfectly harmonious and highly prosperous.1 —
Mr. William Freeman died July 3, and Stephen Bassett
Esq. died Sepi 18.2
In 1818, Jan. 18, the town having received order of
notice on the petition of Israel Thorndike and others
for leave to cut a canal through the Isthmus of Cape
Cod, it was “ voted that such a work if practicable will
be of public utility and that this town will interpose
no obstacle.” — The Rev. David L. Hunn was ordained
Feb. 25, over the Calvinistic church and society. The
Monument Congregational Church which had hitherto
been a constituent part of the Calvinistic society, was
by consent to be constituted a distinct church, and a
distinct parish was organized.3
Miss Temperance, dr. of Mr. Caleb Perry. She was passenger on board a
vessel bound to Newport. The vessel sought a harbor in N. Bedford, but
was driven furiously against a wharf, and Miss P. was drowned notwith-
standing strenuous efforts of the citizens of N. Bedford to rescue her.
1	Mr. Burr removed to Boston; but finally returned to pass the residue
of his honored and useful life in this town.
2	Stephen Bassett Esq. was gt. g. s. of Col. William, g. s. of William
and Abigail, and s. of Nathaniel, who m. Hannah Hall of Y. July 4,
1745, and had Rebecca, Joseph, Abigail, Edmund, Hannah, Nathl., Elisha,
Stephen, Jonathan, Anselm, and Isaac.—Joseph m. Cynthia Tobey Oct. 10,
1773, and wid. Grace (Carnes) Webb 1802, and had Rebecca May 22, 1777,
who m. Thacher Lewis; Edmund Nov. 22,1780, who m. Mary Nye; Hannah
May 12, 1786, who m. Joseph Dimmick; Joseph July 13, 1790; Cynthia
Feb. 19, 1803, who m. Joseph Hamblen; and Celia Jan. 1, 1805, who m.
Jona. E. Chipman. — Stephen Esq. m. Elizabeth Newcomb Nov. 20,1788,
and had Martha B. Oct. 15,1796, who m. Chs. Nye; and Elizabeth Sept. 5,
1799, who m. Ezra Tobey. — Jonathan m. Temperance Crocker, 1790, and
had Nathl. Oct. 17, 1793; David Oct. 3, 1795; and Lydia May 1, 1799.
3	The Monument church at its organization consisted of about 30 mem-
bers ; and the withdrawal from the parent church was on account of the
distance rendering it inconvenient for their families to attend service in the
Centre.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
147
In 1819, May 3, it was voted by the town that “ there shall be
no retailer of distilled liquors licensed in this town after the expi-
ration of the present licenses; and that tavern-keepers be notified
that unless they desist from mixing and selling to town-dwellers
they are not to be approbated after their present term.”
In 1820, Oct. 16, Russell Freeman, Elisha Pope, and Seth F.
Nye, Esqs., were chosen delegates to the Convention to be held in
Boston in Nov. prox. for revising the Constitution of the State.—
The bounds of this town and Plym. were renewed, June 30.
The incidents that we shall record henceforward will
be few. Our pages are already swollen far beyond our
expectations, and we hasten over the remaining years
to the conclusion of these annals.
In 1821, a venerable citizen, Mr. Josiah Ellis, d., Aug. 27, se.
76. In 1824, Capt. Seth Freeman d., Oct. 28. — The Pocasset
or 2d Precinct, originally Congregational, having for many years
abdicated its claims to the distinction by favoring the use of its
property by the Methodists, about this time under the ministry
of Rev. Mr. Britt assumed the title of Reformed Methodist —
renouncing the government of so-called bishops and the plan of
itinerancy. — In 1825, the sad disaster occurring by which the town
was involved in grief for the loss at sea of a number of its most
enterprising young men, has been mentioned Vol. I. 625. Dea.
Thomas H. Tobey, a good man and valuable citizen, d. the same
year;1 also Mr. Charles Gibbs, Nov. 6.2 In 1826, Jan. 21, the
loss of Capt. Josiah Ellis Jr. and others occurred in the Bay, as
has been noticed Vol. I. 773. Mr. Benjamin Freeman d. Mar.
10. A com. was app. by the town to prevent strangers taking
sand and stones from the sea-shore to the injury of the beach.
The town also petitioned Congress for the erection of a light-house
at Beach Point in Barnstable. The bounds between this town
and Barnstable were renewed. The appropriation for free schools
this year was $ 800.
1	Dea. Tobey was 4th son of John Jr. who m. Mercy Howes of Y. Nov.
15, 1759. Dea. Thomas H., b. Oct. 1, 1770, m. Thankful Crowell of F.,
Mar. 1, 1799, and had Freeman C. May 8, 1806, and Watson F. Feb. 10,
1809. The youngest of the family of John Jr., was James, b. Jan. 4, 1778,
who m. Temperance Crowell of F., 1804, and d. Dec. 15,1855, ae. 77: 11: 11.
He had Josiah Aug. 31, 1808.
2	From Thomas Gibbs who was here 1639, were descendants almost innu-
merable. Mr. Charles Gibbs, b. May 9,1756, was son of Barnabas b. 1722,
who was son of Barnabas b. 1684, who was s. of John b. 1644, who was s.
of Thomas.148
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1827, the bounds between this town and Falmouth were
renewed. — A reward of $100 was offered by the town to encour-
age the killing of a wolf that was causing great destruction of
sheep. Mr. Peleg Hoxie d. Mar. 14, ae. 38; and Hon. Nathan-
iel Freeman, Sept. 20, ae. 87.1
In 1828, Col. John Freeman d. ae. 65. — The town voted that
1 Dr. Freeman was b. Mar. 28, 1741, O. S., and was the 3d son of Mr.
Edmund.Freeman b. 1711, of the line of Edmunds. He m. Tryphosa Colton
of Killingly, Ct., May 5,1763, who d. July 11,1796, ae. 53, and 2d Elizabeth
Gifford, wid. of Josiah of Falmouth and dr. of Mr. John Handy of this town.
His children were: Edmund May 4, 1764, (who was a practical printer, dis-
tinguished by his editorial abilities and sterling wit,—publisher and editor
of “ The Herald of Freedom ” commenced by him Sept. 1788, “ a paper,”
says the late J. T. Buckingham, “ remarkable for the boldness of its tone in
narrating current events,”) m. Elizabeth Pattee of Maine and d. July 1,1807,
leaving a family; Nathaniel Mar. 1, 1766, who grad. H. C. 1787, and m.
Polly Ford of Boston, and wTas twice elected to Congress—continuing a
member from 1797 to his decease Aug. 22, 1800; Abigail Aug. 23, 1768,
who m. Col. Abraham Williams Jan. 4,1786, and 2d Geo. Ellis of Fairfield,
Me., Mar. 15, 1801; Martha June 10, 1770, who m. Wm. Fessenden Esq.
Aug. 7, 1794; Jonathan Otis Ap. 6, 1772, who m. Lucy Crocker of Falm.
Dec. 10, 1794, and d. in Washington, N. C., Nov. 2, 1835, having been
highly esteemed as a physician, honored as a clergyman of the Presbyterian
church, and eminent as an instructor of youth—remembered by many of the
prominent citizens of the South as their honored preceptor and most valued
iriend—leaving two sons, the one a counsellor at law, the other a physician;
Rufus Oct. 18,1773, who m. Hannah Palmer of Falmouth, and d. in Charles-
ton, S. C., Mar. 5, 1807, leaving a family; Tryphosa C. Dec. 14, 1775, who
m. Capt. Samuel Parker of Barnstable Mar. 30,1797; Sarah June 16,1778,
who m. Shadrach Freeman Esq. Mar. 22, 1795; Nancy Sept. 2, 1780, who
d. Mar. 24, 1790; Russell Oct. 7, 1782, who having been settled some time
in Maine in the profession of the law, returned to the practice in this county,
and m. Eliza J. Sturgis, dr. Capt. Thos. of Be., 1817, and d. Jan. 9, 1842;
Abraham Williams Aug. 17, 1784, who removed to Maine and m. Nancy
Fairfield Nov. 1, 1809; Geo. W. June 13, 1789, who settled in N. Carolina
and m. Ann Yates Gholson, dr. of Col. Wm. Yates and wid. of Hon. Wm.
Gholson of Va., and after being several years distinguished as an instructor
of youth, was many years rector of Christ Church, Raleigh, N. C., and then
of Emanuel Church, Newcastle, Del., receiving the honorary degree of D. D.
from the University of N. C. 1839, and unanimously elected Bishop of the
South-Western Diocese embracing the whole of Texas, Arkansas, and the
Indian Territory, 1844, consecrated Oct. 26, his death occurring at Little
Rock, Ark., Ap. 29, 1858—leaving sons: Frederick Dec. 1, 1799, who m.
Elizabeth Nichols dr. of Geo. N. Esq. of Raleigh, N. C., Dec. 26, 1821, 2d
Hannah Huntington Wolcott dr. of Hon. Frederick W. of Litchfield, Ct.,
Ap. 21, 1§&4>and 3d Isabella Williams dr. of Capt. Hartwell Williams of
Augusta, Me.,) Nov. 18, 1841; Tryphosa Colton Jan. 24, 1801, who m. Rev.
Louis Jansen June 16,1837, and d. in Bolivar, Tenn., May 11,1852; Nancy
Jan. 24, 1802, who d. Dec. 8, 1804; Nathaniel Ap. 19, 1803; Elizabeth H.,
May 23, 1804, who m. Rev. Davis Lothrop Mar. 6, 1827; Love Swain July
23,1805, who m. Weston R. Gales Esq., mayor of the city of Raleigh, N. C.,
Ap. 21,1825 ; Tryphena July 9,1808, who m. Capt. Isaian Harding Feb. 24,
1837; and Hannan B. Mar. 24, 1810, who d. Dec. 21, 1848:—a family of
twenty children, all of whom but two lived to adult age and married.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
149
none shall be approbated as retailers of intoxicating liquors. — In
1829, the amount appropriated for public schools was $1200.
In 1830, the pastoral relation between the Rev.
David L. Hunn and the Trinitarian Congregational
church and society was dissolved;1 and Hon. Wendell
Davis, counsellor at law, at times representative of the
town in the legislature and state senator, and now high
sheriff, died Dec. 30.2 (See Yol. I. 630.)
In 1831, in the month of January, a heavy snow,
about 3 feet deep in the woods, proved fatal to great
numbers of deer. People provided with snow-shoes,
barbarously captured or killed about 200; of these 40
1	Rev. Mr. Hunn was from Longmeadow, and a grad, of Yale.
2	It may be expected, perhaps, that we will note with particularity the
profession of Law, as illustrated by its members in the progress of the town.
It would be a pleasure to do so; but in any such attempt difficulties are to
be met. In the early days of the colony, there were few, if any, whose edu-
cation had been exclusively directed to legal attainments. The same, indeed,
may be said of the profession of Medicine. It so continued for many years.
In fact, strange as it may now appear, the clergy—to whom has been gen-
erally conceded by historians a large share as “the principal instruments in
keeping alive the spirit of enterprise in the wilds of America ”—were, how-
ever arduous their ecclesiastical functions, “ the trusted physicians and law-
yers in the communities of their respective parishes” for several generations.
And it has been conceded also that whilst they were able and learned
theologians, they “ generally were very far from contemptible as lawyers.”
Towards the close of the first hundred years, a change begins to be apparent.
The names, however, of those who were, in strict technicality, members of
the legal profession, it is difficult to designate with certainty until a much
later period. To say nothing of those who constituted the first courts, Mr.
Richard Bourne very early, Shearjashub Bourne Esq. as early as 1676, and
Mr. Samuel Prince from the year 1682, were much conversant with the duties
that appertain to the profession. Hon. Ezra Bourne was a lawver, both
by education and profession as well as practice as early as 1700. Uol. Win.
Bassett, Mr. Samuel Jennings, and Silas Bourne Esq., were all lawyers by
courtesy, if we may judge by the frequency of then* employment in legal
matters; and so, certainly, was Nathaniel Otis Esq., if he was not, de facto,
a member of the bar. But the first in town that we can with confidence
pronounce a professional lawyer, if we except Hon. Ezra Bourne who was
early on the bench, is Hon. Timothy Ruggles, about 1739. Mr. Solomon
Foster, town-clerk, was, by force of circumstances probably, rather than
from a desire for professional honors, called to the performance of many
duties that now devolve on the profession; as were others at a later period.
The next, however, that we find in town to whom the honors are fully
accorded, is Hon. Nathaniel Freeman Jr. Esq., and next, immediately
on his decease, is Hon. Wendell Davis ; then Hon. Russell Freeman,
Seth F. Nye Esq., and C. B. H. Fessenden Esq., at later periods. The
present occupant of the position is E. S. Whittemore Esq.150
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
were taken alive. The stock was, by this unworthy
act, sensibly diminished:
“ As flies, to wanton boys—
They kill us for their sport.”
The Rev. Asahel Cobb was installed pastor of the
Trinitarian church and society March 31. — Capt.
Thomas Swift died April 9.1
In 1832, additional legislation was found necessary to prevent
the destruction of shell-fish. The line between this town and
Falmouth was renewed. — Mr. Elisha Burgess d. Nov. 10, ae. 89.J
In 1833, the Rev. Ezra S. Goodwin died Feb. 5 j3 and
the Rev. John M. Merrick was installed as his successor
1	The Swifts descended from Mr. William, who d. 1642, are like the stars
for multitude. Capt. Thomas m. Cynthia Blackwell Oct. 3, 1793, but left
no issue. He was son of Thomas, who m. Abigail Phillips Nov. 15, 1752,
and had William Sept. 4,1753, who d. young; Clark Sept. 23, 1755; Re-
becca Feb. 12, 1760, who m. Seth Swift; Joseph June 30,1762; Nathaniel
Dec. 31, 1764; Maria Ap. 28, 1767, who m. Jonathan Beale of Braintree
Nov. 29,1787; Thomas Jr. May 13,1772; William May 1,1777; and Levi
Mar. 13,1780. Joseph b. 1762, removed with most of his family to Scipio,
N. Y. He was father of Rev. Seth who grad. H. C. 1807 and was settled
at Nantucket, but d. in Oswego, N. Y., Oct. 12, 1858, se. 71.—Branches
from Jireh, who m. Abigail Gibbs Nov. 26, 1697, became widely dispersed
and some were much noted. Among these, were Dea. Jireh of Acushnet
b. in S. 1709; Rev. Seth of Williamstown s. of Jabez, and his son Rev.
Elisha of Pittsburg; Rev. Dr. Job b. in S. 1743 and grad. Yale 1765;
and Hon. Zephaniah LL.D. who grad. Yale 1778, was in Cong. 1793, sec.
of legation with Mr. Ellsworth to France, judge 1801, and Chf. Just, of
Connecticut 1806-19, “ learned and upright,” and author of treatises long
recognized as authority in courts.
2	We have mentioned Mr. Burgess’ lineage, p. 91. The family name
has been numerous in town, and branches are widely spread. From Jacob,
son of Thomas Sr. is descended also the Rev. Ebenezer Burgess D. D. of
Dedham. By another branch of the same original stock is the Rt. Rev.
Geo. Burgess D. D. bishop of the Episcopal Church in Maine. From
Thomas Jr., who left the town about 1661 with no very favorable antece-
dents, is supposed to be descended the distinguished Hon. Tristram Bur-
gess of R. I.
3	See Yol. I. 634. Over the grave of Rev. Mr. G. is a monument thus
inscribed: “In memory—of—Rev. Ezra Shaw Goodwin—Pastor—of
the first Cong. Church—and—Society in Sandwich,—who died—Feb. 5,
A. D. 1833 — in the — 46th year of his age — and—in the 20th yr. of his
ministry.—This memorial—of—their beloved Pastor—is—here placed by
his bereaved flock—with—grateful recollections—of—the services, virtues,
and endowments—of their—pious instructor, their enlightened guide, their
faithful—counsellor, their constant work-fellow—in—the cause of Chris-
tian liberty,—their cherished associate, their generous—and—affectionate
friend. — Absent in the flesh, yet with us in the spirit.”ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
151
in charge of the First Parish, May 11. The Monument
Church was organized July 9; and about the same
time a meeting-house that had been set up near Snake
Pond was removed to Pocasset to be occupied by Bap-
tists. — Mr. Walley Goodspeed died July 3.1
In 1834, measures were taken to provide increased and better
accommodations for the town’s poor.—Mr. Jeremiah Bowman d.
Ap. 11 ;2 and Mr. Levi Nye, July 9, ae. 61.3
In 1835, horses, cattle, and swine were restrained from running
at large. — Dea. Lemuel Freeman d. this year, Aug. 24, ae. 78 ;4
and Mr. Lazarus Ewer, May 2, ae. 89.5
1	For Goodspeed genealogy see Barnstable.
2	He was descended from Thomas Bowman (sometimes written Bowerman,
Burman, and Bourman) who was early in Barnstable, and whose posterity
were early in Falmouth, where David was b. who m. Ruth Dillingham dr.
of Jeremiah, and 2d Hannah Wing dr. of Zaccheus, and had Jeremiah,
Thomas, and Peace. Jeremiah m. Deborah, dr. of Zaccheus Wing, and
sister to his father’s 2d wife, and removed as did his father to Sidney, Me.,
but returned to this town 1788. His children were: Charlotte; David who
m. Sarah Allen; Ruth who m. Benj. Swift; Abner; and Asa 1786. The
mother d. Feb. 12,1816. — See Falmouth.
3	Mr. Nye was a devoted Methodist and local preacher. His line of de-
scent from Benjamin 1st was by Jonathan b. Nov. 20,1649; Benjamin b.
1697; Thomas b. 1741 who m. Thankful Blossom June 7, 1764. He ^ras
b. Feb. 16, 1773, and m. Patience Bassett May 10, 1795, and Elizabeth
Bourne Feb. 5, 1802. The 4th of the issue was Lemuel B. Ap. 23, 1805,
who m. Eliza Sears Ap. 21, 1833.
4	Dea. Lemuel Freeman was descended from that branch of the family
of Mr, Edmund and Sarah Freeman, at the head of which stands Benjamin.
b. in 1686, who m. PaHence~Nye“ Jan. 30, 1712-13, and d. Feb. 23, 1773,
sb. 87. They had Phebe Mar. 29, 1713, who m. Ellis; Josiah Jan. 27,
1715-16, who m. Bethiah Hall Mar. 22,1743-4, and removed to Middleboro’;
Remember Mar. 9, 1717-18, who m. Edward Dillingham Mar. 24, 1741-2;
and Benjamin Sept. 9, 1725. — Benjamin, the youngest of the preceding,
m. Sarah Nye Nov. 11,1756, and d. Jan. 5,1784-5, ae. 58. They had Sarah
1757, who m. Amaziah Wilcox who was drowned Jan. 10, 18*16; Lemuel
1758; Remember who m. John Thacher of Barnstable July 28, 1785; Ben-
jamin; and Patience who m. Henry Wood July 19, 1798, and removed to
Little Compton.—Of this last family, Dea. Lemuel m. Mercy Hoxie Sept.
22,1790, and Bathsheba Fessenden May 26, 1793, and had Mercy Aug. 27,
1792; Sally F. May 10, 1795, who m. James N. Bassett; Nathan Sept. 13,
1797; Henry W. Ap. 6, 1800; Benj. Aug. 4, 1802, who d. young; Rebecca
Oct. 28, 1805, who m. James N, Bassett Nov. 1,1827; and Bathsheba Feb.
9,1808, who m. Caleb Nickerson of Provincetown Ap. 6,1830.—Benjamin,
brother of Dea. Lemuel, m. Matte Eldredge of Falmouth, and d. Mar. 10,
1826. They had Lucy Ap. 9,1794, who m. Asa S. Bowley Esq. of Province-
town Mar. 10, 1839; Ezra Aug. 3, 1797, who m. Polly Nickerson Oct. 4,
1824, and d. July 29, 1839; Watson May 19, 1800, who m. Mary Atkins
Dec. 2, 1824; Cynthia Jan. 13, 1803; and Kilburn W. Oct. 21, 1806, who
m. Ann P. Holmes Jan. 13, 1828.—Nathan Esq. of Provincetown, Prest.
of the Bank, is son of Dea. Lemuel.
6 Mr. Lazarus Ewer, b. June 9, 1746, son of Shubael who m. Martha152
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1837, the town voted to receive its proportion of the surplus
revenue of the National Government; the interest to be used for
the support of schools, for the maintenance of which $ 2000 was
appropriated.—Mr. Silas Swift d. Feb. 5.1
In 1838, as appears by a diary kept by an aged citizen, “there
was no snow from 18th Dec. last to Feb. 3.”
In 1839, Rev. Mr. Merrick retired from the pastorate
of the First Parish, and in Sept, the Rev. Eliphalet P.
Crafts was installed over the same.
In 1840, Mr. Nathaniel Fuller d. Ap. 9; and Mr. Wm. J.
Freeman, town-clerk, Oct. 9.2
In 1841, Mr. Thomas Pope d. Feb. I;3 Mr. Joshua Tobet,
Mar. 4; and Capt. Prince Tupper, Aug. 18, ae. 75.
Tobey Jan. 1, 1740-1, who was son of John b. 1692 and m. Elizabeth
Lumbard July 5,1716, who was son of Thomas of Barnstable, son of Thomas
of this town who d. 1667, had by his wife Lydia a large family.
1	Mr. Swift was descended from William, the original of a numerous
race, through Benjamin who m. Hannah Wing Feb. 24,1703-4 and appears
among the Quaker remonstrants in Falm. in 1731; and Benjamin who m.
Waitstill Bowman. Mr. Silas Swift, s. of the latter, b. 7: 18: 1746 in F.,
removed to this town 1780. By his m. with Elizabeth Bumpas he had 13
children, his youngest son being Dr. Paul now of Haverford College, Pa.
2	Mr. Freeman was of the line of descent of that branch from Edmund
and Sarah, of which the head was William, b. 1700, who m. Mary Bodfish
Dec. 6, 1726, and d. Mar. 13, 1786, se. 85, whose issue was: Hannah Sept.
13, 1728, who m. Silas Tupper June 2, 1757, and finally removed to Vt.;
Thomas Mar. 4, 1729-30, who m. Phebe Hall Oct. 9, 1752, and was one of
the first settlers of the town of Barnard abt. 1775, taking with him sons
Wm., Thos., Elisha, Joshua, and Stephen, and who in after life often re-
marked that he “came from where the guns of Bunker-hill battle were
heard;” Rebecca Mar. 2,1731-2, who prob. m. Jona. Nye Jr. Mar. 18,1756;
William June 3, 1734, who settled in Carver; Joanna Mar. 21, 1736-7,
who m. Nathaniel Page of Hardwick Sept. 13, 1759; Sarah July 26, 1739,
who m. Levi Nye June 9,1767, and removed to Lee; Elisha Nov. 21,1741,
who m. Elizabeth Percival, Nov. 12, 1767, and with his family removed to
Lee; Joshua Ap. 6, 1744; and Mary July 20, 1746, who d. single, having
attained to great age.—Of the preceding, Joshua, b. 1744, youngest son, m.
Mehit. Blossom and 2d Lydia Blackwell wid. of Micah May 15, 1796, and
had Levi Dec. 29, 1770; Joseph Sept. 9, 1773 — both these dying when
near their majority of a prevailing fever that took off the mother also;
Hannah Feb. 18,1775, who m. Thos. Eldred of F., Feb. 12, 1795; Rebecca
Aug. 10, 1778, who m. David Crowell of F., Nov. 27, 1800; William Aug.
19,	1780; Joanna Jan. 18, 1783, who d. young; Joshua Feb. 21, 1786, who
m. Nabby Fuller Nov. 4,1813, and removed to Worcester; Mehitable Mar.
20,	1789, who m. Joseph Blish 3d of Be., Oct. 16, 1809, and removed to
Illinois; and Thos. N. July 22, 1791, who m. Deborah F. Nye and was lost
at sea. — Of this last family, William, b. 1780, d. July 3,1817, having had
by his wife Mehit., David C. Oct. 29, 1806, who m. Jane A. Newcomb;
Rebecca C. Mar. 19,1809, who m. Wm. Atkins Jr.; Lydia Oct. 6,1811, who
m. Alvah Holway; and Willtam J. Mar. 6, 1814, the town-clerk.
3	Were we to give a full gen. of the Popes, it would necessarily embraceANNALS OP SANDWICH.
153
In 1842, the amount voted for schools was $2180 in addition to
the interest of the surplus revenue fund.
Rev. Asahel Cobb retired from the pastorate of the
Calvinistic Congregational church.
Hon. Russell Freeman d. Jan. 9;1 Rev. Jona. Burr, Aug. 2;2
Elisha Perry Jr. Esq., Nov. 19;3 and Mr. Wm. Faunce, Dec. 7 4
Inuch obtained from the Plym. and Dart, records. The name appears on
the records here abt. 1700. John and Seth, brothers, were the first here.
The descendants of the former, though numerous, are now scattered abroad
and have no representatives in this town. Among them were Seth Jr. b.
1700-1, whose large family branched to Bridgewr., Halifax, Fairhaven, En-
field, Ct., and other places; Thomas, b. 1709, who m. Thankful Dillingham
of Harwich Sept. 26, 1735, and had Lydia May 18, 1738, and Edward Feb.
15, 1739-40, and went to Acushnet where he d. Mar. 2, 1784, leaving Ed-
ward Esq., judge, collector, &c., who d. 1818, and was the father of Thomas
of Michigan; Ezra, b. Ap. 3, 1719, who m. Sarah Freeman Aug. 18, 1748,
and went to Newport; and Charles, b. Feb. 28,1724-5, who went to Falm.
— The other brother, Seth Sr., is still represented in this town. Our notes
are copious, but room is wanting; suffice therefore to say, from his two
grandsons were all who are now of Sandwich, and branches dispersed; viz.:
Elisha, b. Nov. 1, 1740, son of John, m. Joanna Tobey Feb. 15, 1761, and
d. Feb. 1, 1809. He was father of John b. July 8, 1762, who m. Mary
Freeman Sept. 29, 1785, and d. Mar. 4, 1829, in Maine whither he had re-
moved with his family of which is John Capt. U. S. N., b. in S. Dec. 17,
1798; also of William, Warren, Hon. Elisha, Lewin, and others.—
Lemuel, b. Ap. 23, 1743, the only other son of John b. 1716, who was the
only son of Seth Sr., m. Mary Butler Oct. 25, 1764, and from him were
Daniel, Thomas, Lemuel, Joseph, Seth, and* others. Of these, Thomas, the
2d son, b. Dec. 17, 1771, m. Lucy Bourne May 21,1795, and d. as above;
Lemuel, the 4th son, b. June 30, 1777, m. Sarah Russell dr. of Beni, of
Boston and d. Aug. 1851; Joseph, the 5th son, b. May 22, 1782, d. Sept.
27, 1860; and Seth, youngest, b. May 29, 1786, m. Hannah (Tobey)
Crocker, and is now the eldest of the name in town.
1	Hon. Russell Freeman’s sudden decease, from disease of heart, ex-
cited general sympathy. His genial disposition, ready wit, quick perceptions,
acknowledged abilities, honorable career, and warm friendships had made him
widely known and*as extensively esteemed. He was some years collector of
the port of New Bedford, rep. of this town, of the executive council, &c.
2	See Vol. I. 644.—On the tombstone of this excellent man is inscribed,
by his direction, “ In m'eipso nihil; in Christo omne.”
3	The Perrys have been numerous in this town, and it would require a
large volume to furnish even a condensed outline of the generations. From
Ezra Perry are prob. descended all of the name here, and from his sons
Ezra and Edward many branches widely scattered. From Ezra, s. of Ezra
1st, who m. Elizabeth Burge Feb. 12, 1651, we trace, through three gener-
ations, the lineage of Elisha Sr. Esq., many years selectman, and his son
Elisha Jr. Esq. mentioned above; as also by another divergence, the line of
Dea. Daniel ; by others that of the numerous Johns, as also of William,
Solomon, Elijah, &c. — From Edward, who m. Mary Freeman abt. 1653,
the Samuels and Ebenezers, both of this town and Dartmouth. But we
are compelled to economize our pp., or genealogy will trespass inordinately
on the space allotted to history.
4	Mr. James Faunce from Plympton settled in this town, and his wife
vol. II.	20154
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1843, Rev. Giles Pease became pastor of the Cal-
vinistic society. — Capt. William Perry died June 1,
aged 75.
In 1845, a Universalist Society was organized in
town, and a meeting-house was erected. —Mr. Silvanus
Perry died Jan. 18, aged 79; Mr. Wm. Pope March 2,
aged 76; and Mr. Moses Swift in Oct., aged 80.1
In 1846, difficulties led to the dismissal of Rev. Mr.
Pease; his adherents formed another religious society,
members of which were gathered into church estate
March 21, of the following year, assuming the title
“ the Puritan Church.” A meeting-house was provided,
but the pastor did not continue long in his new charge.
The ‘ puritans ’ in a few years became merged with
other parishes, and their place of worship, after various
transformations, has become a shop for useful manu-
factures.
Mr. John Holway d. this year, Jan. 16, ae. 67; Lt. Joseph Ful-
ler, Aug. 16, 8B. 88;2 Mr. Joseph Nye, Aug. 22, ae. 75; William
Fessenden Esq., Oct. 24, as. 78;8 and Mr. Elisha Gibbs, Nov.
19, a3. 78.
Sarah who d. Ap. 10, 1772; he m. 2d Thankful Tobey Nov. 4, 1773, and
3d Jane Tupper June 12, 1796. Issue: Ansel who d. Ap. 15, 1772; John
Sept. 16, 1774; Asa Sept. 11, 1776; Stephen Mar. 4, 1779; and William
Ap. 17, 1781, who m. Mary Bourne Dec. 2, 1804, and had Dea. James H.
Dec. 9, 1805, and others.
1 The lineage of Mr. S. is traced from Mr. Wm. Swift, through Wm. Jr.,
Ephraim b. 1656, Moses b. 1699, who m. Mary Foster Dec. 24, 1719, and
Capt. Ward b. 1735, who m. Remember Tobey Jan. 9, 1755-6, and had
Moses Jr. and others.—Moses Jr. m. Rebecca Nye of F. Jan. 6, 1791, and
had 11 ch.
* Lt. (or Capt.) Joseph Fuller was a good citizen and patriot, and b.
1758, son of Nathaniel b. Dec. 10, 1716, whose father John b. 1689 was
the son of Dr. John of Barnstable. See Be. annals, for gen. of the Fullers.
3 William Fessenden Esq. was g. s. of Rev. Benj. the early minister
of S. See Vol. I. 651. Educated in Boston in the office of Messrs. Green-
leaf and Freeman, as a printer; after attaining majority he worked three
years, at $1 per day, with John Fenno, printer to Congress, first in N. Y.,
then in Phila., during which time he laid by from his earnings $600; and,
besides other efforts at mental improvement, read through Gibbon’s Decline
and Fall of the Roman Empire at short intervals whilst waiting for copy.
Like Dr. Franklin, he was a cold-water man. After leaving the printing
office, he purchased a stock of goods, and opened a store in WaterviUe, Me.;
but his mother dying, he soon after sold out to the father of the presentANNALS OF SANDWICH.
155
In 1847, Rev. Elias Welles was ins. July 28 pastor of the
Calvinistic Cong, church. — Mr. Jashub Wing d. this year, Feb.
25, ae. 88; Mr. Caleb Gibbs Feb. 27, ae. 82; Mr. John Bourne
Mar. 11, ae. 72; Mr. Benj. Gibbs May 22, ae. 85 ; Mr. Prince
Nye 1 July 17, ae. 65; and Mr. Eben. Coyil Oct. 10, ae. 92.
In 1848, Mr. John Perciyal2 d. Jan. 1, ae. 78; Dr. Charles
Goodspeed Mar. 30, ae. 80; Mr. Joseph Holway Ap. 5, ae. 73;
and Mr. Asa Atkins Nov. 16, ae. 83.
In 1849, Dr. Jonathan Leonard 3 d. Jan. 25, ae. 86; Col. Na-
Hon. Geo. Evans his stock in trade, and returning to his native place bought
out the interest of the co-heirs of the paternal estate, and opened a store
and inn in Sandwich. A gentleman of more than ordinary intelligence, of
quick perceptions, of established principles, and kindly feelings, his course
through life was marked with strict integrity, and insured him great con-
fidence and high esteem. His sound judgment, business sagacity, and
industry, secured to him a large property. Official station had in his view
no attractions, or he might have enjoyed much more of public favor than
he reluctantly received. Few men have been so prompt in business, so un-
tiringly active and successful, and yet have passed so much time in the quiet
enjoyment of home. His last years were blessed with unclouded Christian
hope. The portrait we present, through the courtesy of his eldest son,
Stephen Fessenden Esq., is faithful. He is said to nave borne a strong
resemblance to Hon. Fisher Ames, for whom in the more active portion of
his life he was frequently mistaken, and for whom he entertained a high
respect.
1	Mr. N. b. Aug. 29,1781, was s. of Peter b. 1745, who was s. of Nathan
b. 1722, who was s. of Nathan who m. Dorothy Bryant Ap. 12,1715. Brs.
of Peter were Peleg 1743; Nathan 1747-8, f. of Edw., Simeon, and Dr.
Shadrach; and Nathl. 1752, the f. of Thos. S., Nathl., and Abra. W. —
The descendants of Mr. Benj. Nye, the ancestor, are very numerous, and
prob. to be found in every State of the Union. John and Ebenr., sons of
Benj. 1st, were the first settlers in N. Falm. John, s. of 1st John, b. Nov.
22, 1675, was co-purchaser with Edm. Freeman of 1000 acres in 1702 at
Windham, Ct. Jona. and Caleb, sons of Benj. 1st, are numerously repre-
sented, as also Nathan Sr.
2	James was the first of the name in town, and had James Jan. 18, 1671;
and Eliza. Sept. 10,1675. — James, of S., m. Abigail Robinson Feb. 18,
1695-6. He had prob. John Oct. 17, 1706; and Timo. Oct. 2, 1712. Mr.
Savage says James went to Haddam, Ct.—Mr. John, above, s. of Benj. who
was s. of John by w. Lydia. — See Barnstable.
3	See Vol. I. 611, 612. — It was intended to give brief mention of all who
have been settled in the town, as regular practitioners of medicine, from its
settlement to the present; but we find it impracticable — unless, peradven-
ture, the few we may here name were all, with the exception of those whose
stay was very transitory. In the early times of the colony, physicians were
not numerous; and such as were in the practice were remotely scattered—
their professional visits often reaching great distances in emergencies. The
inhabitants seem to have relied ordinarily on good nursing and an intuitive
perception of the requisite treatment; perhaps adopting, in effect, the an-
cient adage, “ the best physicians are cheerfulness, rest, and diet; ” or, as
the Latins have it, “Si tibi deficiant medici, medici tibifiant hcec tria: mens
Iceta, requies, moderata diceta.” It may be remarked, however, that in early
times a good education embraced an extent of reading that gave to varied156
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
than B. Gibbs 1 Mar. 10, se. 66; Mr. Ezra Tobey June 27, se. 52;
and Mr. Thos. Fessenden Dec. 29, ae. 77.
In 1851, Mr. Jonathan Bourne 2 d. Feb. 22, ae. 83; Mr. Ste-
phen Holway Mar. 24, ae. 76; Gideon Hawley Esq. in May, ae.
84; Mr. Thos. S. Nye June 2, ae. 67; Mr. Josiah Meiggs Sept.
10, ae. 70; Mr. Stephen Holway Jr. Nov. 22, ae. 53; and Mr.
Melatiah Tobey8 Nov. 28, ae. 86.
professions some knowledge of the diagnosis of disease and the principles
of the healing art; especially were the clergy, who were required by law to
be educated men, more or less skilled in medical practice. Some of these
were regularly educated as physicians as well as clergymen, and through
life associated the two professions.—The first person known in the practice
of medicine in the town of Sandwich, was Rev. Benj. Fessenden in 1722;
the next was Dr. Thomas Smith in 1739; then Dr. Eldad Tupper about
1740; Dr. Benj. Bourne and Dr. Thos. Smith Jr. abt. 25 yrs. after; then,
soon, Dr. Nathaniel Freeman ; Dr. Jonathan Leonard abt. 1790; Dr.
Jonathan O. Freeman, at a later period; long subsequent, Dr. Bart.
Cushman ; and later, Drs. Ivory H. Lucas, James B. Forsyth, James
Ayres, Jona. Bemis, John Batchelder, Henry Russell, and, may be,
others whose stay was even more transient than that of some of the last
named, — leaving Drs. John Harpur and Jonathan Leonard Jr. to the
present time in possession of the chief practice. — So far as is known, the
disciples of EsCulapius in this town have practised upon the principles of
the good Samaritan, and may have felt as the celebrated Boerhaave ex-
pressed himself, “ The poor are good patients, for God is their paymaster.”
—We may not now depart from our general rule of action in writing what
should stand as history, in speaking of the living; but of the one now
longest in practice here and to whom the public is much indebted for the
interest he has taken in the cause of education, whilst his professional merits
are highly and justly appreciated, we may safely and truly write, “ Fir omni
doctrina atque optimarum artium studiis eruditus;” and to the other, it is
just commendation to say, “Patrissas! patris est jilius.”
1	Col. Gibbs, s. of Silvanus, was b. Sept. 27,1783, m. Salome Dillingham
dr. of Edward, Sept. 16, 1804, and was f. of Nathan B. now of Boston, b.
May 26, 1806, who m. Adeline Burgess dr. of Benj. Esq., Sept. 23, 1830.
Col. B. was a prominent and estimable citizen.
2	Mr. B. was descended from Mr. Richard, through Elisha of 1641, who
m. Patience dr. of Mr. Jas. Skiff Oct. 26, 1675, and had Nathan Aug. 31,
1676, who m. Mary dr. of Col. Wm. Bassett Feb. 3,1697-8, and had Jona-
than Jan. 21, 1702-3, who m. Hannah Dillingham of Harwich Oct. 14,
1725, and had Elisha Nov. 29, 1733, who m. Joanna Nye June 2, 1757.—
Mr. Jonathan Bourne, above, son of the last named, m. Hannah Tobey
Mar. 31, 1791, and was father of a large family, the 8th of whom is the
present Jonathan Bourne Esq. of New Bedford who discovers a regard for
his natal place by still keeping up the ancient homestead in this towrn.
3	From Mr. Thomas Tobey who was in town early, with 2 drs., and who
m. 2d Martha, dr. of Geo. Knot, Nov. 18, 1650, and had Thomas Dec. 8,
1651, a multitude has descended. From one of these, Thomas, who settled
in Yarm., now Dennis, are many. From Samuel who d. Sept. 22,1737,
were by his w. Abia, Joanna May 22, 1697, who m. Benj. Spooner of Dart.
Nov. 29, 1716; Cornelius Sept. 12, 1699; Tabitha Nov. 9, 1701, who m.
Joseph Freeman May 9, 1726; Zaccheus Jan. 14, 1703-4; Ruth Sept. 8,
1706; Jona. May 13, 1709; Eliakim Oct. 19, 1711; Sami. May 8, 1715;
Thos. Aug. 14, 1720; and Elisha 1723.—Cornelius was the g. f. of theANNALS OF SANDWICH.
157
In 1852, among the records of mortality are the deaths of
William Handy Esq. February 8, aged about 90Mr. SAM-
above Melatiah, whose f. Cornelius Jr. m. Lois Pope Feb. 1,1756, and d.
Oct. 8, 1778.—The descendants of Zaccheus who m. Sarah Pope Jan. 1,
1726-7 were soon found generally in Dartmouth; as also of Jonathan Jr. b.
1709, who m. Abigl. Lewis Dec. 7,1732.—Eliakim who m. Abigl. Bassett Jr.
Ap. 17,1740, had Sami, who went to Fairfield; Wm.; Lucy; Wm. who m.
Hannah Crocker Mar. 12,1778, and had Grace Oct. 5, 1778, who m. Heman
Bursley; Abigail Dec. 15, 1783, who m. Col. Obed B. Nye; Lydia Ap. 5,
1790, who d. early; and Jona. Burr May 30, 1794.—Rev. Saml., b. 1715,
grad. H. C. 1733, was 1st minister of Berkley 1737, and d. Feb. 13, 1781.
By m. with Bathsheba Crocker of Be. he had a large family, the 2d s. of
which was Judge Samuel b. June 5, 1743, “ an eminent man,” the f. of
Apollos Esq. late of N. B. — Thomas, 6th s. of 1st Samuel, m. Eliz. Swift
Feb. 27, 1740-1, and had Silvanus, Thos., and Seth.—Dr. Elisha grad.
H. C. 1743, m. Desire Newcomb Jan. 12, 1746, and d. at Acushnet May
10, 1781. — Another branch from Thomas 1st is through Gershom who m.
1st Mehit. Fish 1697 and 2d Hannah Nye 1728, and had, among others,
Silas, Ephm., Gershom, &c. — From Ephm. 1711, was Elisha, Jesse, George,
and Benj., the latter of whom b. Jan. 11, 1747-8, m. Zerviah Fish Aug. 4,
1774, and had Hepzibeth who m. David Fearing; Curtis the father of Joshua;
and Abigail who d. young.—Joshua, s. of Cornelius, m. Maria Tobey Nov.
12, 1752, and had a family of which was Lemuel who went to Portland.
1 Capt. William Handy was, in some respects, a remarkable man.
During the revolutionary period, at a time when it was most difficult to obtain
men for the war, he volunteered and served in several campaigns. He was
present at the execution of Andre, a scene the incidents of which he related
at the very close of life, not only with nice accuracy but with an exhibition
of fine sensibilities and generous feeling. Endowed with an iron constitu-
tion, of good judgment and most determined will — fearless, resolute, and
full of energy, his earlier life was chiefly devoted to maritime pursuits —
first in the merchant service, and then whaling. After one whale voyage as
mate, he was for many years in command of some of the best and most
successful ships engaged in that business, making repeated voyages from
New Bedford, and also from Dunkirk in France in pursuance of an arrange-
ment made first by Tupper with Bonaparte when First Consul and after-
wards by Rotch with the Consul as Emperor. Captain Handy’s ability,
integrity, and success were proverbial, securing unlimited confidence.
Retiring from the seas, he engaged still in maritime affairs, establishing a
ship-yard near his house on Buzzard’s Bay and becoming largely a ship- .
owner. He sent forth from his own yard the ship Rebecca, the brig Fame,
schooners Resolution, Nancy, Sophronia, Love, Achsah Parker, and sloops
Betsy, Nancy, Deborah, and other smaller vessels designed for the Long
Island Sound trade during the war of 1812. These last smaller vessels
were, for greater security against the ravages of the enemy, built near his
door at a distance from the shore, and then without great difficulty launched
across fields to their intended element. Capt. H. suffered greatly from
French spoliations, as well as from the war of 1812 ; but cherished faith in
the tardy justice of his country to the very last of life. When more than
60 years old he resolved, to replenish his coffers and “ to show the boys
how to take whales,” to adventure one more voyage. His purpose was no N
sooner known in New Bedford than eminent merchants and ship-owners
were ready to further his views. Put in command of the Com. Decatur in
1821, he accomplished in 15 months a most successful cruise to the admi-
ration of alL He had an utter repugnance to public life, and yet was elected
Selectman, and commissioned as Jus. Pac. Anecdotes might be related of158
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
uel Adams aged 80; and Captain Barnabas Nye Novem-
ber 6, aged 85.1
In 1853, the Rev. Mr. Welles, pastor of the Calvinistic
church and society, deceased after a pastorate of about
six years; and Rev. P. C. Headly was settled in charge
the following April.
Mr. Daniel Wing d. Jan. 5, ae. 74; Capt. Freeman Gibbs 2
Jan. 23, ae. 64; Mr. Levi Swift Mar. 8, ae. 75; Mr. Nathaniel
Burgess Ap. 27, ae. 74; Mr. John Jones3 July 7, ae. 53; Mr.
him, were a work of this kind the place, showing the energy and daring of
the man $ and one, had we room for it in full, would be of thrilling interest
—	that of a rencontre by himself and one other with a white polar bear,
engaged upon the ice and snows without firearms. The contest was des-
perate ; but the bear weighing more than 500 lbs. labored under the disad-
vantage of breaking through the snow-crust, whilst his assailants were sup-
ported by it and finally conquered. He d. aged 89 : 5 : 24, and was of one
of the branches of the name descending from John b. 1677, who m. Kezia
Wing Nov. 14, 1704, and had Cornelius May 9, 1704-5 ; Zaccheus Jan. 16,
1708 ; John Jan. 24, 1714 ; Thankful Feb. 27, 1716, who m. Seled Landers
Dec. 5, 1751, who was pioneer to Yarm., N. Scotia; and Jonathan Oct. 6,
1719. — John, b. 1714, m. Kezia Eldred of F. Mar. 6, 1745-6, and 2d
Eliza. Garrett Oct. 10, 1758, and had Chloe Mar. 9, 1746-7, who m. Lot
Crowell of F. Feb. 20, 1772 ; Paul Feb. 9, 1748-9, who d. inf.; John Nov.
19, 1751 who m. Eliza. Ewer May 10, 1774, and went to Saratoga Co., N.
Y.; Paul June 19, 1758 who with most of his family removed West; Kezia
who m. Ichabod Burgess and removed to Maine; Temperance who d. ae.
15 ; William Aug. 15, 1762; Delia who m. Cornelius Sherman and went to
Rochester; Eliza, who m. Josiah Gifford Aug. 17, 1789, and 2d Nathaniel
Freeman 1799 ; Lot who was drowned in Boston Bay Ap. 26, 1792 ; and
Achsah who m. James Thacher Jr. of Y. Ap. 14,1794 and removed to Vas-
salboro,. — Capt. William, b. 1762, m. Love Swain dr. Danl. of Nantucket
Aug. 25, 1796, and had Betsy May 11, 1797 who m. Sami. Nye of F. 1820;
Achsah June 22, 1799 who m. Calvin Parker 1822; William Sept. 29, 1801
who m. Elizabeth Freeman 1831 and 2d Mary Vickery 1848; Lewis Sept.
23, 1803 who m. Fanny Brett 1828; Love Nov. 12, 1804 who m. Wm.
Hewins 1826; John Aug. 17, 1706 who m. Phebe Nye; Nancy F. Mar. 9,
1809 who m. Martin EUis 1829; Joseph S. Sept. 25, 1810; and Joshua
Nov. 9, 1813 who m. Dorothy A. Hathaway 1840. — Other branches from
Richard, Jonathan, Hannibal, Isaac, &c. are numerous and widely scattered
—	too numerous to be here mentioned.
1	Capt. Nye, b. Mar. 4, 1768 and d. ae. 84: 8: 2, was son of Barnabas
who m. Deborah Tobey July 12, 1763 and d. at Acushnet July 24, 1813,
ae. 79.
2	Capt G. was s. of Benj., and a very successful ship-master. It would
occupy too much space to enlarge, as we would wish, the genealogies of the
families of this name. Mr. Thomas Gibbs (who Mr. Savage thinks was
bro. of Samuel also of Sandwich) was in town early. He d. in 1685, ae. 80.
His children were Thos. b. Mar. 25, 1636; Samuel June 23, 1639; John
Sept. 12, 1644; Sarah Ap. 11, 1652 who m. Ebenr. Nye Dec. 17, 1675;
Job and Betia, gem., Ap. 15, 1655; and Mary Aug. 12, 1657. The
descendants in this town have been numerous, as also those widely
dispersed.
3	See Barnstable and Falmouth.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
159
Perez Burgess Sept. 10, ae. 67; and Mr. Thomas Perry Dec.
30, *e. 74.
In 1854, Mr. Solomon Perry d. Jan. 1, ae. 80; Mr. Samuel
Wing1 Feb. 24, ae. 80; Mr. Alyin Swift Mar. 2, ae. 71; Capt.
Pelham Gibbs Mar. 3, ae. 87; Mr. Francis Jones, ae. 73; Shadrach
Freeman Esq.2 June 13, ae. 84; and Rev. Phineas Fish June 16.
1 Mr. John Wing, the ancestor, was of the earliest settlers. His wife
was Deborah, dr. of Rev. Steph. Bachelor; and they brought with them
sons Daniel, John and Stephen. — John went to Yarm. in 1648. See Y.—
Daniel, who d. 1658-9, admin, by John 1659, m. Hannah Swift, dr. Jno.,
1641, and had Hannah July 28, 1642; Lydia May 23, 1647 ; Sami. Aug.
28, 1652; Hepzibeth Nov. 7, 1654 ; John Nov. 14, 1656 ; and Beulah Nov.
16, 1658. — Stephen m. Oseah Dillingham 1646-7, and 2d Sarah Briggs
7:11: 1654, and had Ephraim Ap. 21, 1649; Mercy Nov. 13, 1650;
Stephen Sept. 2, 1656; Sarah Feb. 5, 1658; John Sept. 25, 1661; Abigail
May 1, 1664; Ebenezer 11: 5: 1671; and Matthias 1: 1: 1673.— The
numerous families descended from these, seem now, in different branches,
so remotely distinct that their common origin is recognized by few. They
have generally been highly respectable and valuable members of society. —
We must make our gen. notice more brief than we had desired — not for
the want of data, but because these are forbidding by their multitude.
8 Shadrach Freeman Esq. was in lineal descent from the 1st Edgi.
Freeman, and of that branch at the head of which was the 3d s. of Edm.
ancTSarah, viz.: John, b. 1693, who m. Deliverance Lawrence July 20,
1720 ; 2d Maria Bourne Jan. 3,1722-3 who d. Jan. 18,1726, and 3d Mary
Perry Aug. 4, 1726 and d. June 22, 1762. Issue: John; Mary who m.
Jona. Bassett Nov. 19, 1748 ; Seth Feb. 22, 1732; James who d. Aug. 20,
1737 ; and Samuel Sept. 21, 1736.,— Of the preceding, John, the eldest,
m. Deborah Nye June 23, 1748 and had Maria Nov. 21, 1749 who m.
Moses Keene Dec. 15, 1768; Elisha Sept. 9, 1750 who m. Nancy Brown
July 21, 1774 and removed to Middleboro’; Sarah Feb. 14, 1752 who m.
Elisha Perry Esq. Sept. 13, 1774; Joseph Mar. 9,1756; Wm. July 5,1759;
and, removing to Mid., had also John; Nathan ; and Martin. — Seth Esq.,
b. 1732, m. Experience Hatch of Pembroke Ap. 19, 1759 and d. July 19,
1812 ae. 81. His wid. d. Jan. 27, 1820 se. 80. They had Phebe Dec. 31,
1759 who m. Clark Swift Aug. 16, 1789 ; Mary Ap. 17, 1761 who m. Zenas
Nye Feb. 10, 1785 ; John Nov. 15, 1762 ; James July 17, 1764 ; Anna Mar.
11, 1766 whom. Joseph Swift; Seth June 10,1768 ; Shadrach Ap. 21,1770;
Experience Dec. 17, 1771 who m. Watson Freeman Nov. 10,1794; Abigail
Oct. 6, 1774 who d. 1775; Deliverance June 22, 1775 who m. Gid. Baty
May 25, 1797 and d. Sept. 7, 1848, having been left a wid. Oct. 16, 1826;
and Betsy July 16, 1778 who d. inf. — Samuel, b. 1736, m. Abigail Dil-
lingham Ap. 9, 1761, 2d Achsah Crocker who d. in Hallowell Oct. 14,1802
whither her husband removed in 1800, and 3d Rebecca wid. of Danl. Jack-
son Sept. 1803. His chil. were Abigail May 2, 1763; Mary Nov. 9, 1764
who m. Capt. John Pope Sept. 29, 1785 ; Sami. Oct. 7, 1766 who d. Aug.
15, 1845; Deborah Mar. 5, 1769 who m. Lem. Tobey ; Edward May 7,
1772 who m. Esther Nye May 17, 1795 and removed toJMe. Where he d.
Dec. 14, 1820; Ebenr. who was drowned in S. mill-pond when a youth;
and Ebenr. Aug. 28, 1788. —Col. John, b. 1762, was a remarkable man —
some years a ship-master successfully trading with France, whose acts of
daring and energy of will might furnish many anecdotes of interest. He
was also a soldier in the rev. war. He m. Eliza. (Swift) Barlow, wid. of
Nathan, Dec. 4, 1796 and d. June 8, 1828 without issue. —Hon. James, b.
1764, was drowned in Vineyard Sound, the boat in which he attempted to160
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
An unadvised attempt was made this year by a
young clergyman from abroad, in transient and hasty
visits, to organize a society for the purpose of sustain*
mg the services of the Protestant Episcopal Church;1
pass over from Falmouth to Holmes Hole on urgent duty as sheriff getting
entangled with ice, in severe cold. Amaziah Wilcox and Ansel Dimmick
of F. were with and aiding him, but all perished Jan. 10, 1816. Sheriff F.
was a man of great boldness and energy. By his m. 1st with Joanna
Butler of F., and 2d Eliza. Carnes of Boston, he had Eliza. Oct. 20, 1790
who m. Dea. Sami. Nye Sept. 4, 1828; John Sept. 2, 1792 who d. in
Batavia Mar. 1820 ; Joanna B. Dec. 10, 1794 ; James M. Aug. 6, 1798 who
d. an officer U. S. N. Nov. 16, 1820 on the coast of Africa; Seth B. Mar.
31, 1800 who d. June 24, 1811; Shadrach Jr. Nov. 30, 1801 who m. Eliza.
P. Swift July 23, 1829 and d. Feb. 20, 1838; Experience H. Mar. 14, 1803
who m. Capt. Isaac Gibbs Sept. 23, 1827; Francis H. Aug. 6, 1805 who
set. in W. N. Y.; and Abigail W. June 26,1808wrhom. Capt. Roland Gibbs
June 23,1828.*— Capt. Seth Jr., b. 1768, m. Maria Nye Ap. 27,1797 and d.
Oct. 28, 1824. Issue: Charles H. Aug. 3, 1798 who m. Pamelia Davis of
F. 1829 and in 1840 removed to Brimfield, II., where he d. Sept. 11, 1859
leaving a family; Hannah B. Aug. 9, 1800 who m. Benaiah Leonard of
Wareham; Anne M. S. Feb. 7, 1803 who m. Clifton Wing of Roch.;
Fanny E. Aug. 19, 1805 who m. Hiram Barrows of W.; Seth Jr., Mar. 12,
1808 who went in 1840 to Ottawa, II.; and Nathan N. Aug. 30, 1810 who
m. Caroline Swift Sept. 4, 1834, went to II., and died in Peoria 1837. —
Shadrach Esq., b. 1770, m. Sarah Freeman, dr. of Hon. Nathl., Mar. 22,
1795. They left no issue. He was a practical farmer, and filled various
public offices.
1 It was stated at the time in a religious publication that this was the
first instance of the performance of the services of the Ep. Ch. in this
town; and the statement copied into other journals was permitted, though
wide from the truth, to pass unrebuked. Stated services had been held
years before, the holy communion regularly administered and baptismal,
marriage, and funeral rites performed. A Rt. Rev. Bishop had also repeat-
edly officiated here. Such services had been, however, with no view of
establishing another parish in a place where the religious community was
already inconveniently cut up into divers sects ; but for the especial benefit of
the Sandwich Collegiate Institute and the members of the communion con-
nected with it. These services were open to all who desired to attend, and
numbers availed themselves of the opportunity; but no thought was had
of distracting other worshipping assemblies. — It may here be noted that
there was no attempt made during the first two hundred years of the set-
tlement of the county, to introduce into any part of it, as a permanency,
the Episcopal mode of worship and order although there were at different
periods individuals and families of high position (especially among the
Gorhams, Bournes, and Otises) whose preferences lay in that direction.
The fact is worthy of preservation inasmuch as it corroborates the claim of
the Church that its policy has never been a proselyting one. The instruc-
tions of * the Soc. for Prop, the Gospel in Foreign Parts/ May 29, 1735,
were that its “ ministers are as little as may be to meddle with any matters
of controversy, but only to preach and administer the sacraments according
to the doctrine and discipline of the Church of England.” The assertion
of Douglas in his Summary, that there were to be “ no pulpit invectives
against religious sects,” is also to the point—an important admission.
Nor does the reason which he assigns for it at all detract from its value:ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
161
but such as might naturally, from their position, have
been supposed the strongest friends of Episcopacy, were
neither advising nor consulted in regard to the move-
ment. It soon fell through, as from the manner of its
inception was foreseen.1
In 1855, Mr. William Atkins d. Feb. 3, ae. 80; Capt. Thomas
Burgess2 Ap. 14, ae. 73; Dea. Thomas Hamblin® May 4, ae. 80;
Mr. Barnabas Holway4 May 5, ae. 78 ; Mr. Lemuel Fish June
8, ae. 94; Mr. Barzillai Weeks Aug. 12, ae. 87; Mr. William
Lohing Aug. 29, ae. 54; Mr. Theodore Fish 5 Nov. 26, ae. 77;
and Mr. James Tobey Dec. 15, ae. 78.
In 1856, Rev. Mr. Headly had retired from the min-
istry in the Calvinistic church; and, some time subse-
quent, Rev. William Caruthers became pastor; but the
ministry of this parish being like that of others in
town, subject to frequent changes, it is inexpedient
to attempt to pursue its history farther. — The First
parish, or Unitarian society, has long exhibited similar
instability, depending on occasional supplies. — The
" that, as Dr. Swift humorously expresses it, their religious zeal having no
vent by their tongues, may be turned into the proper channel of an exem-
plary life.”
1	Rev. W. W. Sever, as missionary under the direction of the Diocesan
Board, officiated here a short time, after the aforesaid organization “ of the
new parish ” was said to be effected by “ the self-denying labors ” of
another; and we are sure that it was no fault of this amiable gentleman
that the enterprise did not prosper.
2	Capt. B. m. Patty Wing Dec. 2, 1804. He was s. of Ichabod who m.
Kezia Handy, and g. s. of Joseph, youngest s. of Thomas 1st.
3	Dea. H. m. Sylvia Nye Sept. 28, 1797. He was s. of Thos. who m.
Olive Fish Oct. 20, 1774, and had Thomas Oct. 14, 1775. See Be. and
Falm.
4	Mr. H. was s. of Barnabas and Elizabeth. He had brs. Stephen
b. 1775 who m. Reliance Allen Oct. 4, 1797, and had Stephen and others;
and John 1781 who m. 1st, Rhoda Allen Oct. 1, 1802. Through Gideon
who m. Experience Wing May 26,1732, and Joseph and Anne, and Joseph
Jr. son of Joseph and Rose, they are traced to the first of the name who
was in town 1637 and who d. 1647 and whose name is, on the records,
sometimes Holly.
5	Mr. F. was son of John who m. 1st, Sabra Chadwick of F. Dec. 8,
1763, and 2d, Amy Howes of F. May 22, 1791, and had Mercy who m.
Nathl. Howland; Ephraim June 25, 1776 who m. 1st, Bethia Chadwick of
F. Oct. 10, 1799 ; Chloe who m. Sami. Fish of F.; Theodore ; Temperance
who m. Ansel Chadwick May 8, 1788 ; Isaiah who m. Chloe Hamblin Nov.
24, 1803; and Jesse who m. Sarah Gallison of Be.
YOL. II.	21162	HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Congregational society at Monument has not at any
time had a clergyman permanently settled.—The Bap-
tists, at Pocasset, have never been numerous, or well
established. — The Umversalists have ceased to open
their doors for regular worship. — The Friends continue
as formerly, but with diminished numbers; their young
people often, more than in times past, failing to be
“ owned as members of Society;” and, whether because
their peculiar discipline is unfavorable to increase as
a sect, or for other reasons, their numbers do not
augment by “ light breaking forth ” whereby many of
“the world” are “convinced.” — The Republican Meth-
odists (or may be the Reformed, or perhaps Protestant
is the last and present designation) now support stated
preaching.—The Protestant Episcopal Methodists hold
their course onward with an energy that betokens zeal
and increasing success; their system of rotation, what-
ever inconveniences may attend it, probably contribut-
ing to • their increase.— St. Peter’s Church, Roman Cath-
olic — the necessity for which was created by the influx
of population consequent on the establishment of the
Glass-works in this town about 1825, has pursued its
way quietly and unostentatiously; and, for the last
twelve years under the charge of Rev. William Moran,
“ Vir mitis, biandus, d gratia dignus” has continued to
exert, as is generally conceded, a salutary influence
upon society.
Mr. Timothy Tobey died this year, Jan. 26, as. 90;1 2 Mr. Saml.
Blossom Jan. 27, se. 74;2 Mr. Henby Bourne Feb. 13, ae. 61 ;3
1	Mr. Tobey, b. Sept. 19, 1765, was s. of Joseph b. Sept. 22, 1728, who
was s. of Nathan b. Sept. 28, 1701, who was s. of Nathan 1st. He m.
1st, Patience Fish Jan. 18, 1795, and had a large family.
2	See Blossom gen. in annals of Be.
3	Mr. Henry Bourne was des. from Mr. Richard who d. 1682, through
Elisha, Nathan, and Thomas. The latter, b. 1716, m. Mary Randal of
Scit. Nov. 26, 1747, and had William June 29,1754 who m. Martha Perry
July 25, 1793 and had Henry, above, Jan. 22, 1795. — From Thomas, s.
of Nathan, was a large number of brothers, noted citizens, viz.: Nathan,
Lemuel, Ansel, Samuel, Asa, Bethuel, and Thomas.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
163
Mr. Joseph Hoxie,1 s. of Barnabas, Feb. 22, ae. 91 ; Mr. Charles
Bourne Mar. 27, ae. 81; Mr. Nymphas Handy Ap. 20, ae. 81; Mr.
Joseph Nye, s. of Joseph Esq. May 6, ae. 82 ; Seth F. Nye Esq.
Sept. 13, ae. 65; and Mr. Same. Fessenden, s. of Sami., Oct. 18, ae. 80.
In 1857, Mr. Hezekiah Hoxie2 died March 26, ae. 89; and
Mr. Joshua Arey3 July 7, ae. 97.
In 1858, Mr. Alden Allen 4 died Jan. 8, ae. 80; Mr. Ezra Dil-
lingham 5 Jan. 22, ae. 67 ; Mr. Edmund Freeman Jr.6 Feb. 8, ae.
! Mr. Hoxie, b. Dec. 2, 1765, m. Deborah Wing, dr. of Paul, and .had
Sami. W., Hepzibeth W., Joseph, Abigail W., and Newell. His father was
Barnabas who m. Hannah Gilford Dec. 11, 1755 and had Gideon, Lodo-
wick, Kezia, Christina, Joseph, Mercy, Chloe, and Mary. The line is traced
back next to Joseph who m. Mary Clark Jan. 16,1723-4; then to Gideon ;
then to Lodowick.
2	He was s. of Peleg and Mary, his precise age being 88 : 6 : 22. By
his w. Bathsheba, he had Peleg Mar. 25,1798 ; Solomon Jan. 9,1800 ; Heze-
kiah July 18, 1802; Sarah July 21, 1804; Obadiah D. June 6, 1809; Bath-
sheba May 26, 1812 ; James Ap. 17, 1814; and Caroline July 20, 1816.
3	Mr. Arey came to this town from Harwich; and his descendants, for
some reason or fancy, now call themselves Avery. He had a large family.
4	Mr. Allen, b. Feb. 23, 1778, s. of William who m. Rosanna Swift,
and g. s. of Geo. who m. Rebecca Spooner, and g. g. s. of Cornelius by
by his 2d w. Dorothy, is thus traced back through Daniel of 1663, and
Geo. Jr., to Geo. Sr. who d. 1648. — Mr. George Allen the ancestor we
have noticed in former pp. His son George Jr. had by his wife Hannah,
Caleb June 24, 1648 who m. Eliza. Sisson Ap. 8, 1670; Judah Jan. 14,
1650-1; Ephm. Jan. 14, 1652-3; Eliza. Jan. 20, 1654-5 ; and by his w.
Sarah had Matthew June 16, 1657; James and John, gem., Aug. 5, 1658;
Lydia May 1660 ; Daniel May 23,1663 ; Hannah May 15,1666 ; Ebenr. 9:
3 : 1668; and George June 20, 1672. — Matthew, another s. of Geo. 1st,
m. Sarah Kerby and removed to Dartm. — Henry went to Milford, Ct.
1660, and d. at Stratford 1690, leaving a large family. — William m. Pris-
cilla Brown Mar. 21, 1649, but had no issue. — James d. July 25, 1714 at
Tisbury, leaving a large family. — Francis m. Mary Barlow July 20, 1662
and had a family. —Ralph had Jedediah Jan. 3, 1646-7 ; Experience Mar.
14, 1651; Ephm. Mar. 26, 1656; and others. — The families in successive
generations have been highly respectable, but so numerous that it is impos-
sible to find place for them here.
5	Killed by a fall from a horse, leaving a family. He was s. of John 3d
who m. Zervia Crocker and had Elizabeth Mar. 23, 1773 who m. Capt.
Benj. Nason May 9, 1802 ; Zervia Aug. 17,1775 who m. Lt. Joseph Hamblin
Feb. 8, 1798; Achsah Aug. 17, 1777 ; Crocker Jan. 5, 1780; James Mar.
19, 1782 who m. in Bordeaux and settled in Fr.; Lucia June 16, 1784 who
m. John Bassett; Ebenr. Oct. 24,1786 ; and Ezra Nov. 23,1789 mentioned
above. This branch trace through John 1710, and Edward, and Henry,
to Edward Sr. who d. 1667.
6	Mr. F. was of the branch from Thomas b. 1696, s. of Edmund Free-
man and Sarah, and late in life m. Kezia Hoxie Nov. 23, 1742 and d. Oct.
1775 ae. 79, and had Edm. Oct. 10, 1743 ; Gideon Ap. 13, 1745 who
“ removed up country; ” Joseph June 1746 who m. Eliza. Wing Aug. 18,
1768 and went. taMe.; and Lodowick Oct. 27, 1747. — Edmund, the eldest
of these, m. Tabitha Chase Mar. 14, 1765 and d. 1778, 8 m. before the birth
of his youngest. He had Samuel 3d July 7, 1765 who m. Fear Atkins
Aug. 16, 1795 and d. abt. 1829 ; Thomas Jr. Ap. 6, 1767 who m. Betsy Fish
Mar. 11, 1802 and d. July 29, 1841; Kezia May 6, 1769; Mary May 25,164
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
52; Capt. Ansel Fish1 Oct. IT, ae. 83; and Mr. Joseph Hoxie,2
son of Cornelius, May 27, ae. 83.
In 1859, Mr. Geo. Atkins 3 d. June 3, ae. 59; Capt. Abner Ellis
Aug. 25, ae. 72; Mr. Silas Gifford4 Sept. 7,ae. 76; and Mr. Jon-
athan E. Chipman 5 Sept. 24, ae. 56.
1771; Josiah Jan. 28, 1773 who removed to Yt.; Nathan who removed to
N. York ; and Edmund Ap. 9, 1779 who m. Lucy Churchill and has had
John C. June 20, 1805; Edm. Jr. Oct. 6, 1806 mentioned above; Josiah
Aug. 13, 1808 who d. Oct. 14, 1832; Lucy A. Dec. 7, 1814; and Mary T.
Jan. 13, 1820.
1	Capt. F. {Anselm on the record of births) was s. of Nathl. and Abigail
who had Chipman May 29, 1771; Prince May 24, 1773 ; Anselm Feb. 11,
1776 ; Mahala July 17, 1779 who m. Joseph Nye; Braddock June 14, 1783 ;
and Nancy June 7, 1786.—The lines of descent of those who bear the
name are multiplied ; but in some of the branches are those who prefer to
write the name Fisher, thus discarding the origin from the old Saxon family
of Fisch which in the tables of the German nobility dates from a remote
period.—The descendants from John and Nathaniel, early settlers, are
numerous ; as are also those from Jonathan their brother who left S. in
1654 and went to L. I., from whom is Gov. Hamilton Fish of N. York.
2	Mr. Joseph Hoxie, b. Jan. 7, 1777, was s. of Cornelius and Martha,
and g. s. of Joseph and Mary, and g. g. s. of Gideon and Grace, and thus
descended from Lodowick who m. Mary Presbury 1664.
3	Mr, James Atkins was first of the name on the town records. By his
w. Margaret he had William July 2, 1690 ; Hannah Dec. 17, 1692; Expe-
rience Feb. 16, 1694-5 ; John Ap. 14, 1699; Eliza. July 29, 1701; and
Thos. Aug. 18, 1703. — John m. Dinah Gifford Feb. 13, 1728-9 and had
James Mar. 18, 1730; John June 1, 1732 ; Thos. Ap. 3, 1734; Wm. Dec.
18, 1736 ; Benj. July 25, 1739 ; Hannah Nov. 26, 1741 who m. Nathl.
Blackwell Feb. 19, 1767; Nathl. July 30, 1744 who m. Betty Blackwell
Feb. 18, 1767; and David June 4, T7T7.— James m. Content Landers
Oct. 23, 1760 and had John Ap. 9, 1762; James May 4, 1764 who m.
Hannah Nye May 25, 1790 ; Asa Ap. 19, 1766 ; Fear Oct. 29, 1769 who m.
Sami. Freeman Aug. 10, 1795 ; Stephen Mar. 21, 1772; Wm. Dec. 4, 1774;
Ansel Dec. 22, 1778; and Eliza. May 19,1781. — Thomas, b. 1734, m. Ruth
Snow of Roch. Jan. 4, 1759-60 and had Eliza., Wm., Marg., and Ruth.—
William, b. 1774, and d. Feb. 3,1855 had a large fam. of which was George
mentioned above, b. Feb. 22, 1800. The name is more frequent in the
lower towns of the Cape.
4	Mr. John Gifford (in the rec. Gif art) was early in town, and had
Eliza. 12 : 25: 1664-5 ; Samuel Mar. 12, 1666; John June 12, 1668;
Mary Oct. 9, 1669 ; Grace Aug. 7, 1671; Wm. 7:3: 1673; Yelverton Ap.
22, 1676 ; and Josiah Feb. 27, 1681. — Samuel m. Jane Loring Nov. 2,
1699 and had Josiah Feb. 12, 1700-1, by a 2d w. Joanna, the first having d.
Ap. 14, 1699-1700. — John m. Desire Sprague Nov. 24, 1696.—William
m. Eliza. Wheaton Mar. 13, 1701-2, and had Benj. Aug. 20, 1703; Nathan
Feb. 16, 1704-5 ; and Elizabeth May 31, 1710. — Josiah m. Mercy Chad-
wick Mar. 11, 1714-15, and had Rhoda Feb. 17, 1715-16; John May 2,
1717 ; Abigail Oct. 8,1718 ; Samuel Feb. 10, 1720-1; Christopher Nov. 22,
1722; Hannah Jan. 29, 1726-7; and Benj. June 14, 1732. — Another
name is early on the records, viz.: that of Mr. William Gifford who had
Christopher, July, 1658. The name was early identified with Falmouth
also ; and we defer further notice until we come to the annals of that
town.
5	Mr. John Chipman, the ancestor, who d. in this town Ap. 7,1708, was
born in 1615 as is to be inferred from his saying in 1652 “ It is 21ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
165
In 1860, Mr. Thos. F. Gibbs 1 d. Feb. 4, ae. 67; Mr. Ellis Swift
Feb. 11, ae. 73; Hon. Elisha Pope Mar. 8, ae. 79; Mr. Benj. Black-
well 2 May 27, ae. 77; Mr. Abner Bowman Aug. 26, ae. 76; Mr. Jos.
H. Pope Sept. 27, ae. 78; and Mr. Gershom Ellis 3 Nov. 18, ae. 84.
In 1861, Mr. Lemuel Ewer4 d. Mar. 12, ae. 86; Mr. Joshua
Wing5 Ap. 5, ae. 80; Mr. Moses Nye Ap. 28, ae. 92; and Mr.
Peleg Lawrence 6 Sept. 12, ae. 93.
For 1862, we add to pages long since written, one para-
graph indited in troublous times. The present is not
the moment, nor is this the place to inquire the reason
for the existing rebellion and the consequent state of
military preparation and civil commotion. Suffice to say,
yrs. since I came from Eng. and I am now 37,” and was therefore 93 yrs.
old when he d. He was in Boston 1631, and in 1649 was in Yarm. and
Barnstable; a dep. 1663-9; ord. ruling elder Ap. 14, 1670; selectman &c.
He was doubtless the son of Thomas of Brinsfiltae, near Dorchester, Eng.;
and, from his son John, b. Mar. 3, 1669-70 who m. 1st Mary Skiff, dr. of
Stephen of this town ; and through John b. Sept. 18, 1697 who m.
Hannah Fessenden of Camb. Sept. 26, 1723, and had Benj. Nov. 7, 1726
who by m. to a 2d w. Betty Freeman Nov. 15, 1758 had Benj. Jr. May 6,
1768 who m. Lydia Ellis Nov. 21, 1793, was descended the above Jona. E.
who was b. July 27, 1803, m. Celia Bassett and had James F., Mary, Chs.,
now a Major in the U. S. volunteers, and others. — See Annals of Be.
1	Mr. Gibbs was s. of Silvanus who m. Katy Tobey Aug. 25, 1774 and
had Hannah June 20, 1777 ; Joanna Oct. 12, 1779; Silvanus and Benj.,
gem., Jan. 27, 1782; and by his 2d w. Hannah had Nathan B. Sept. 27,
1783; Katy T. Mar. 3, 1785 who m. Wm. Swift; Alfred Nov. 3, 1786;
Elizabeth Aug. 11, 1788; Clarissa Mar. 16, 1790; Thomas F. May 28,
1792 ; Caroline Oct. 1, 1793 ; Joseph Dec. 21, 1795 $ Experience Jan. 18,
1797; Alexr. May 12, 1799; and Joanna Aug. 12, 1803. Mr. Silvanus
Gibbs was a most exemplary and excellent citizen.
2	Mr. B., b. Sept. 25, 1784, was 4th s. of Samuel who m. Patience Gibbs
Mar. 8, 1772. The name was prominent and influential through several
generations from the days of Michael the progenitor. Once numerous in
town, the descendants have faded away by deaths and removals until few
remain. It would be a task indeed to arrange the generations in order and
would require many pp.
3	Mr. E. m. Fear Blackwell Dec. 31, 1798, and was 4th s. of Elnathan
who m. Bethia Bassett of Be. June 5, 1769 and had Seth, Nathan, Gideon,
Jemima, Gershom Ap. 2, 1777, Thankful, Sami., Bethia, and Molly; and
was g. s. of Gideon who by Anna and Jemima had Elisha, Anna, Elnathan
Jan. 5, 1739^10, Seth, Abiel, John, Samuel, and Reuben.
4	For the family of Ewers, see note in Annals of Be.
6 Mr. Wing was b. May 15, 1781, and m. Beulah Bowman of F. He
was s. of Pressbury who m. Hannah Swift and had Joshua, Benj., Joseph,
and Silvanus; and g. s. of Joshua who by Mary had Sarah Sept. 23, 1745 ;
Joseph July 25,1748; Elizabeth Dec. 20,1750 ; and Pressbury June 26,1754.
6 For Lawrences, see Be. and Falm. Also for the multitudinous family
of Howlands descended from Mr. John the 13th signer of “ the Compact ”
in Cape Cod harbor. Many of these have been and still are in this town;
but the name was not prevalent here until the close of the first hundred years.166
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
" They ever do pretend
To have received a wrong, who do a wrong intend.”
Nor shall we attempt any record of the present actual
condition of public affairs, or seek to anticipate the
future. Sandwich has been foremost of the Cape
towns to respond to the calls that have been made for
volunteers to defend the public property and to crush
a daring attempt to dissolve the Union. If traitors
shall finally be constrained to confess
“ Even-handed justice
Returns th’ ingredients of our poison’d chalice
To our own lips,”
they, surely, will have no just claim for sympathy. If
these States shall again resume their wonted course of
prosperity, in union and at peace, the world may well
rejoice; if the government established by the toils and
blood and patriotism of our fathers, shall fail and the
glory depart, a universe might find cause in such mis-
fortune to shroud itself in sadness.
As we intended, the more recent events connected
with the history of the town, have not been noted very
minutely; nor are we sure that if they were important
we are competent to record them with all impartiality.
De Lamartine well remarks, “Events are best under-
stood from a distance, because from thence the details
do not attract the eye, but the objects present them-
selves in their more important points of view.”
The present is called an age of ‘progress/ an age of
* improvementand these simple annals of early times
may possibly be scanned by eyes of some who are slow
to discern the full virtues of the past, though quick to
magnify the present. We acknowledge that we cannot
claim for the existing state of society that it is a fair
representation of the long past—although we would
be proud if it might with propriety be so pronounced.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
167
We institute no odious comparisons; we recognize
with pleasure all improvements and all progress that
conduce to the general weal and have their foundation
in rectitude; but feel constrained to confess that with
all. its faults the circle of the first two centuries will not
suffer in comparison with the present hour. Improve"
ments, indeed, there are; and there is progress: but
“ Are we aught enriched in love and meekness,
Can aught in us be found more pure and wise,
More than in humbler times* grand human story,
That makes our hearts more apt to sympathize
With Heaven; our souls more fit for glory P ”
With regard to locality, we doubt whether its attrac-
tions have increased. At all times in the season when the
earth is in its richest attire, the landscape has been beau-
tiful. Hills and valleys, ponds and streams, the ocean
and the forest, the romantic and the picturesque, have
been combined in prospect We still enjoy in degree
“ The melodies of woods, and winds, and water; **
but many can remember when the rural quiet and
enjoyment were greater, and then there was that gave
to society a landmark that elicited observation from
afar. The nobles have passed away. As it has been
with the fathers, so in one respect will it be with us —
“ like snow-flakes o’er a river 5
A moment white, then gone forever.**
Happy for us, happy for the world, if we do as much
for our day and generation and for posterity as did
they, and leave to .the future historian as good mate-
rials for the record of doings and virtues.
We subjoin a few statistics, embracing a view of Deputies and
Representatives, Selectmen, Town Clerks, and Treasurers, from
the first to the present time.168
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
DEPUTIES.
The first meeting of a representative assembly in Gen. Court, was in
1639. The following persons were, in the order given, chosen to represent
the town of Sandwich, and served the number of years affixed to their
names, viz.:
1639.	Richard Bourne,	14.
“ John Vincent,	7.
1640.	George Allen,	4.
1642.	Wm.Newland,	8.
“ John Allen,	1.
“ Thomas Burge,	11.
1643.	Edw. Dillingham,	1.
1643.	Henry Feake,	2.
1644.	James Skiff,	13.
1646. Edm. Freeman Sr.,	1.
“ Thos. Tupper,	19.
1662.	Wm. Bassett Sr.,	3.
1663.	Thos. Dexter,	1.
1668. Thos. Wing Sr.,	1.
1669. Edm. Freeman Jr.,	7.
1673. Thos. Tupper Jr.,	8.
“ Wm. Swift,	4.
1675. Stephen Skiff,	10.
1684. Sheaij. Bourne,	2.
1691.	Elisha Bourne,	1.
REPRESENTATIVES
being required by Gov. Phips in 1692, the first ‘Great and General Court9
under the new charter, assembled June 8 :
___	x rs*
1692.	Thos. Tupper,	1.
“ Sheaij. Bourne,	3.
1693.	Samuel Prince,	5.
1696.	Stephen Skiff,	10.
1697.	William Bassett,	7.
1698.	Thomas Smith,	2.
1711. Eldad Tupper,	3.
1713.	Mel. Bourne,	4.
1714.	Sami. Jennings,	3.
1715.	John Chipman,	2.
1722. Israel Tupper,	1.
1725. Ezra Bourne,	10.
1739. Timo. Ruggles,	6.
1742. Sami. Tupper,	7.
1753. Roland Cotton,	8.
1761. Stephen Nye,	18.
1775. Nathl. Freeman,	4.
“ Joseph Nye 3d,	16.
1779. Lot Nye,	1.
jcrs.
1785. Abm. Williams,	2.
1787. Thos. Smith,	3.
“ Thos. Nye,	1.
1797. Wm. Bodfish,	7.
1804. Jno. Freeman,	7.
1806. Benj. Percival,	6.
1810. Elisha Pope,	6.
1812. Benj. Burgess,	10.
“ Peter Nye,	1.
“ Thos. H. Tobey,	1.
1817. Russell Freeman,	6.
1824.	Obed B. Nye,	1.
1825.	Wendell Davis,	1.
1830. Shad. Freeman,	3.
“ Thos. Swift,	1.
1834.	Abm. Nye,	3.
1835.	Jesse Boyden,	2.
“ Daniel Weston,	1.
1836.	Lemuel B. Nye, •	1.
“ Abram Fish,	1.
1837.	Charles Nye,	3.
“ Josiah Bacon,	3.
“ Benj. Bourne,	4.
1840. Jno. B. Dillingham, 2.
“ Geo. W. Ellis, 3.
1843. Asahel Cobb,	5.
1845.	David Benson, 2.
“ William Handy Jr., 1.
1846.	Charles Swift, 2.
1847.	F. B. Dillingham, 1.
1849.	Henry Bourne,) 2.
1850.	Zebedee Green, 1.
“ Henry V. Spurr, 1.
1854.	Reuben Collins Jr., 1.
1855.	Joseph H. Lapham, 1.
1856.	Chas. H. Nye, 2*
%3T The preceding table gives the number of years each served, but not
the consecutive years after the first election.
SELECTMEN.
In 1662, it was enacted by the Gen. Court, that “ in every town of this
jurisdiction there shall be tnree or five selectmen chosen by the townsmen,
out of the freemen — such as shall be approved by the Court, for the better
managing of the affairs of the respective townships.” The first record made
of selectmen in Sandwich, was in 1667 ; and the following have served:
1667.	Thos. Tupper,
“ James Skiff,
“ Thos. Burgess,
1668.	Edm. Freeman,
1669.	Thos. Wing,
1672.	Thos. Burgess,
1673.	Wm. Swift Sr.,
1675. Steph. Skiff,
“ Thos. Tupper Jr„
1679. Jno. Blackwell,
1684. Shearj. Bourne,
1688. Elisha Bourne,
“ Wm. Bassett,
1693.	Sami. Prince,
1694.	John Gibbs,
1695.	Shubael Smith,
1697.	Thomas Smith,
1698.	Jonathan Nye,
1699.	Danl. Allen,
“ John Smith,
Yrs.
5.
9.
2.
11.
4.
1.
15.
7.
14.
3.
4.
9.
11.
5.
4.
13.
Yrs.
1704. Edw. Dillingham,	10.
1707. Israel Tupper,	13.
1709.	Matthias Ellis,	1.
1710.	Edm. Freeman Sr.,	7.
1712. Eliakim Tupper,	12.
“ Sami. Jennings,	1.
1715. Jno. Chipman,	6.
1718. Wm. Bassett Jr.,	8.
1720. Jireh Swift,	2.
1723. Stephen Skiff,	19.
1726. Elisha Bourne,	9.
1736. Jno. Freeman,	24.
1740. Sami* Tupper*	19.
1744. Ebenr. Nye,	5.
1752. Joshua Hall,	1.
“ Thomas Smith,	9.
1759.	Solomon Foster,	8.
1760.	Ebenr. Allen,	3.
1761.	Jona. Bassett,	10.
1763. Thos. Bourne,	7.
1763. John Allen,
1766. Mich. Blackwell,
1770. John Smith,
1773. Joseph Nye 3d,
“ Seth Freeman,
1776. Silvs. Nye,
1779. Lot Nye,
1783.	Thos. Burgess,
1784.	George Allen,
1786.	Sylvanus Gibbs,
1787.	Thos. Swift,
“ Thos. Smith,
1787.	Steph. Chipman,
1788.	Ebenr. Allen,
1789.	Thos. Foster,
1791. Abm. Williams,
1795. Nathan Nye Jr.,
“ Leml. Freeman,
1797* Bepj. Percival,
1798. George Allen,
Yrs.
13.
4.
7.
18.
13.
6.
1.
3.
9.
2.
1.
2.
2.
1.
2.
4.
22.
1.
19.
9.ANNALS OF SANDWICH.
169
1807. Jas. Freeman,	l.
1809. Elisha Perry,	13.
1816.	Mel. Bourne,	15.
1817.	William Handy,	1.
“ Thos. W. Robinson, 3.
1818.	Levi Nye,	1.
1822. Bethuel Bourne,	7.
1824. Steph. Holway,	2.
1826.	Henry Lawrence,	3.
1827.	Ezra Tobey,	3.
.	Yra.
1829. Jesse Boyden,	17.
“ Beiy. Bourne,	8.
1834. Abram Nye,	3.
1S35. Russell Freeman,	1.
1836. Chas. Nye,	2.
“ J. B. Dillingham,	5.
** Joseph Hoxie,	1.
1841. Elisha Pope,	1.
“ Simeon Dillingham, 5.
“ Clark Hoxie,	4.
1847. Ch. B. H. Fessenden, 7.
1851. Geo. Giddings, 2.
“ Edw. W. Ewer, 6.
1853.	F. B. Dillingham, 3.
1854.	Reuben Collins Jr., 2.
1855.	Joshua Handy, 1.
“ Seth B. Wing, 7.
1858. Mason White, 4.
“ Isaiah Fish,	4.
TOWN TREASURERS.
There are no means of ascertaining with certainty who were the incum-
bents the first fifty years after the settlement of the town. It is not
improbable that in most instances the Clerks served in this capacity also.
We give the names and order so far only as we can do it with accuracy.
1694. Samuel Prince.
1699. Thomas Smith.
1701. John Smith Jr.
1719.	Sami. Jennings.
1752. Solomon Foster.
1755. Silas Bourne.
1757. Jonathan Bassett.
1760.	Thomas Bassett.
1761.	Silas Tupper.
1777. Thomas Bassett.
1782.	Benj. Fessenden.l
“ Lemuel Pope.
1783.	Nathan Nye Jr.
1787. Abraham Williams.
1795. Melatiah Bourne.
1803. James Bourne Jr.
1813.	Heman Tobey.
1814.	Nathan Nye Jr.
1825. Ezra Tobey.
1838. William J. Freeman.
1840. David C. Freeman.
TOWN CLERKS.
It is impossible to determine accurately the date of election of several of
the first Clerks, or the length of time they were in office ; and we only infer
the order of the first two from probable data.
William Wood.2
Thomas Tupper.
1669.	Stephen Wing.
1670.	Edm. Freeman Jr.
1675. Thomas Tupper Jr.
1685. William Bassett.
1720.	William Bassett Jr.
1721.	Nathaniel Bassett.
“ Samuel Jennings.
1751. Solomon Foster.
1753. Thomas Smith.
1758. Benj. Fessenden.
1784.	Melatiah Bourne Sr.
1791. Abraham Williams.
1795. Melatiah Bourne.
1803. James Bourne Jr.
1814. Nathan Nye Jr.
1825. Ezra Tobey.
1838. Wm. J. Freeman.
1840. David C. Freeman.
1	Refused to serve.
2	There may have been two of the name of William Wood filling this
office in succession; but we do not intend an opinion that it was so;
indeed we think it improbable. We find evidence, however, that William
Wood was Town Clerk in 1649, for he makes the following entry : “ Miriam
Wood was buried in Sandwich May 9, 1648. Att. William Wood, Town
Clerk.” The records also show that “ Miriam Wood was b. May 8, 1648,
and Mary Wood Mar. 29, 1649.” Other records show that “ administra-
tion was gr. on the estate of Mr. William Wood of Sandwich, 1639.” The
two of the same name may have been father and son. We are utterly
unable, however, to corroborate by any thing substantial the declaration of
Mr. Lewis of Lynn, that the first town clerk of Sandwich was the Author
of 4 New England’s Prospect;9 although circumstances seem to favor such
hypothesis. (See p. 15.) There was a Nathl. Wood of this town; and, in
1685, “ Elizabeth the wife of Caleb Nye quitclaimed all right ” to lands
deeded by said Nathl. There was also a William Wood of Dartm., who
took the oath of fidelity, 1684.
Since our note respecting George Barlow, p. 72, was in type, our atten-
tion has been directed by a valuable correspbndent, Mr. R. C. Ingraham of
N. Bedford, to * Sewal’s Hist, of the Quakers/ Yol. 1. p. 427 : “ One Bar-
low who formerly had been a preacher at Exeter, afterwards turned lawyer,
and at length became a marshal, would boast that when he went to distrain
for fines, he would think what goods were most serviceable to the Quakers,
VOL. H.	22170
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Besides those mentioned Vol. I. p. 792, as Graduates, were
others in the Cape towns whose names were overlooked when
that table was published; but we do not regard the fact of suffi-
cient importance to undertake to supply such omissions in these
pages otherwise than as incidental mention has been, or shall be
made in the genealogical or biographical notices.
If other omissions, of importance, shall be perceived in time,
they may be supplied in an appendix at the close of this volume.
and then he would take them away. By such doings he encouraged others
to vice; for a certain Indian taking a knife from an Englishman’s house,
and being told that he should not steal, answered that he himself had
thought so, but now he saw that Barlow and the magistrates did so by the
Quakers. This Barlow in the days of Cromwell having grown rich with
the spoils of the innocent, grew poor after King Charles was restored 5
which made Barlow say that he hoped for a good tune again; and took the
shameful liberty to add he thought the Quakers would not let him want.”
The preceding doubtless gives sufficient intimation of the locality and
career of Barlow previous to his coming to Sandwich.THE
AFHALS OF THE TOWN
OF
YARMOUTH.
“By aw iwstiwct or wature, we loyk to leaks- the places or otrs bibth and the chief
circumstances or the LIVES of OUE pbooenitobs.”—Hon. James Savage.TO
J. WINGATE THORNTON, ESQ.,
COUNSELLOR AT LAW:
Thebe would be singular propriety in the inscription of these Annals of the second
town in the order of settlement on Cape Cod, to a worthy lineal descendant of that
venerable man, Rev. Thomas Thornton, first minister of Yarmouth; and the pertinency
of the act would be commended by a recognition of your * Landing at Cape Ann,*
‘ Ancient Pemaquid,’ and * History of Anglo-American Colonization,’ your discoveries
and suggestions leading to the recovery of the supposed hopelessly lost MSS. of
Governor Bradford, and other labors giving assurance of that antiquarian and historical
zeal and acumen by which you merit a prominent place among the literary benefactors of
the age: But, Sir, my especial object in this
Inscription,
is to convey at least some feeble expression of the pleasure with which I have witnessed
your always disinterested promptitude in aiding inquiry, and your encouraging cheer-
onward in the toils of research—labors amid discouragements inevitably attendant which
none but those who have had personal experience in “ breaking the ice for others who
shall come after with less difficulty ” can understand or appreciate: traits that define the
generous proficient in Antiquarian or Historical research, whose feeling is sure to be
“Non ignarus mali, miseris succurrere disco.'*
Pardon the liberty I take without first asking permission, and accept the respectful
and fraternal salutations of
THE AUTHOR.
(172)ANNALS OF YARMOUTH
In giving precedence to Yarmouth, rather than Barn-
stable, in the order of presenting the annals of towns,
we are governed not more by the tradition of earlier
attempts at settlement, than by the fact that the former
had probably priority in organization if not incorpora-
tion. Yarmouth, as Sandwich, was first represented in
General Court in June 1639; Barnstable not until the
December following.1
Situation and Boundaries.—Adopting the suggestion of
Rev. Mr. Alden in his ‘Memorabilia of Yarmouth/ that “the
Cape may be well represented by a man’s arm in a certain posi-
tion ” — i. e. bent at the elbow at an angle of 45°, with the hand
turned from the wrist towards the body; we may represent this
town as situated about midway from the shoulder to the elbow
of the peninsula. It extends across the Cape — its lat. 40° 41',
having the Atlantic on the North and South, Dennis on the
East, and Barnstable on the West.2 Its ancient meeting-house
was about 4 m. E. of the court-house in Barnstable, and 69 m.
from Boston.
Natural Divisions, &c.—The township contains, besides its
more sparse settlements, several very pleasant villages. Passing
down the Cape on the north side by the old county road, the
These Courts were holden on the 1st Tu. in Mar., June, Sept., and
Dec., annually.
2 The reader will understand that in our description of Yarmouth, we
present the township as it now is, and not according to its more extended
proportions prior to the dismemberment from it of Dennis; although, until
the incorporation of the latter, the annals of Yarmouth must necessarily
embrace all that relates to the progress and doings of the primitive town-
ship before being shorn of its original dimensions.
(173)174
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
traveller, unless lie look out sharply for the ‘boundary monu-
ment,’ is sometimes unaware at what point the long avenue with
its occasional divergencies of streets or roads introduces him from
Barnstable to the town we would describe. He has remarked, as
he moved along, the evidences of thrift on either side, and has
admired the quiet and pleasant abodes scattered thickly the
whole distance from ‘the great marshes’ in West Barnstable;
and, although his position was unmistakable in passing the
central part of East Barnstable, the still continuous settlement —
alleviated occasionally by new views in the direction of the waters
of the bay on the left, or, it may be, by the looming of the lower
arm of the Cape across the water — has left him perhaps unsus-
picious that he is in another town, until, led by the extent of the
panorama to inquire, he is informed that already he has advanced
some distance within the bounds of Yarmouth — to that part of
it proverbially pleasant, called Yarmouth Port.
The next village, as he proceeds along the same continuous
range of cheerful dwellings interspersed with stores, artisans’
establishments, and public buildings, with agreeable sceneiy, is
that called by way of priority, Yarmouth. He is conscious that
he is in the old or central village — and this not because he finds
any signs of dilapidation ; for the contrary is apparent: but, per-
haps, because as he looks around him, the tout ensemble is more
in accordance with his pre-conceived views of a highly respecta-
ble puritanic old Cape Cod town; and because as he surveys the
prospect in the distance, he thinks he catches some glimpses of
the peculiar scenery with which his mind has been accustomed to
associate the mention of Cape Cod.1
Before reaching the eastern terminus of this village, or the
roads that diverge to North Dennis, to Brewster, or to Harwich;
leaving the ancient county road and moving in the direction of
the opposite side of the peninsula, noting varied scenery and
passing some substantial farms and some clusters of pleasant
dwellings, lie finds himself in view of the waters of the south
side, and in that part of the township familiarly known as Bass-
river, or Quaker-village, and with the post-office distinction South
Yarmouth. This village is sufficiently compact and extended,
with its draw-bridge connecting it to W. Dennis, to give the
1 Kendal, Travels 1807, was thus impressed. He says, “Here com-
mences the peculiar scenery of the Cape — a soil of white sand generally
covered with sward and with forest while in a state of nature, but naked
and drifting before every wind when once laid bare to the elements.”ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
175
appearance of a thrifty, agreeable town of itself. This village is
about 4 m. S. of the NT. part of the township.
If the traveller pleases now to direct his course westerly, he is,
soon after passing acres of salt works located on the very road-
side and many others in the distance, pursuing his way through
West Yarmouth. This, like the two first described, though
more thinly settled and embracing small clusters or villages in
the distance on either side — peculiarly romantic in the nearer
approach to the south shore, is stretched a long distance continu-
ously until, perhaps, the traveller needs again inquire at what
point he left the township — for West Yarmouth merges imper-
ceptibly with that part of Barnstable on the south side called
Hyannis.
The soil in some portions of the north part of the township is
quite productive; the south part is more sandy and light, and
yields moderately. Large bodies of valuable salt meadows are
found in either part. Between the two shores is a considerable
amount of woods — chiefly pines, but interspersed with oaks.
On both sides of the township are harbors convenient for
coasting and fishing vessels, the entrances being good at high
tide. The harbor on the north side will be found more minutely
described in the annals of Barnstable, it being a continuance of
the same inland bay that forms the harbor of that town on the
north. Bass River affords at its mouth a good harbor for vessels
of small draught; and the U. States have erected a break-water for
its protection. At this harbor are wharves and other conveniences
for the business of the place. On the Yarmouth side of Lewis’
Bay, which also will be found more particularly described in the
annals of Barnstable, is a convenient haven.
Point Gammon makes off on the S. side, in W. Yarmouth, on
the extreme end of which is a light-house.
The township contains several large ponds of pure and soft
water, some of them of considerable beauty. From one of these
issues Bass River. The pond affords a small water-power. A
similar convenience is found in W. Yarmouth. The dependence,
however, for grinding the cereals, is perhaps chiefly on wind-mills.
German’s Hill, 136 feet above the sea, is the highest land in
the township.1 Fort Hill still retains the name, without any
noticeable eminence; but here, in the latter part of the 17th cen-
1 “ The steeple of ‘ the old parish meeting-house,’ ” it was said by Mr.
Alden in 1797, was “ long an important landmark for vessels going into
Yarmouth or Barnstable harbors on the Bay side.”176
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
tury, were seen the vestiges of an old fort built for protection
from Indians. It stood one fourth of a mile northward of 4 the
old meeting-house.’ The ravages of winds, long since left neither
fort nor elevation. Mr. Alden said, in 1797,c; Within the mem-
ory of some, the Indians in this town were nearly as numerous as
the white people.”1 He subsequently adds, 44 So late as 1779,
there was, in 4 Indian-town,’ a small cluster of wigwams — about
one mile from the mouth of Bass River, in the south-eastern part
of the town — which were inhabited by the remnants of the Paw-
kunnawhat Indians. The chief of them about this time had the
small-pox ; five who had it survived, and eleven died. It is prob-
able that this part of Yarm. will ever retain the name of Indian-
town.”2 In 1797, there was left standing one wigwam only; it
was on the banks of the river, and was occupied by a squaw and
a negro. On the north-eastern side of Swan’s Pond, a little
south-west of Indian-town, stood, a century and a half since, an
ancient Indian meeting-house. Below the meeting-house, nearer
the pond, was—and doubtless still remains — the spring where a
now extinct race once slaked their thirst when here congregated
for religious purposes.
1	Mr. Alden says, 44 When the maize was in its milky state, they used to
prepare a delicious food composed of corn and other mgredients, and this
they called appoon” We presume Mr. Alden refers to a dish of Indian
origin, still common in its season, called 4 green-corn pudding/
2	One of these Indians Mr. Alden mentions particularly —44 Joseph Nau-
JiaugTit, a very conscientious deacon,” of whom many anecdotes were for-
merly related. 44 He was a temperate Indian, well-minded, pious. He used
to pray with great fervor, in his vernacular tongue, in his family, and with
the sick, and at funerals In his last illness Rev. Tim. Alden Sr. visited
him ; and, conversing with him on death, asked if he was resigned to his
approaching dissolution. Nauhaught replied, 4 O yes, Mr. Alden, I have
always had a pretty good notion about death/ ” The story of Deacon Nau-
haught’s being attacked by a number of large black snakes, partakes rather
of the marvellous ; but as the President of Meadville College indorsed it,
and since it is found in the Massachusetts’ Magazine of 1794, and also in
the Mass. Hist. Coll, for 1797, we are, perhaps, in duty bound to reproduce
it: 4 He was distant from any of the inhabitants, had no knife with him, no
means of defence, and was, therefore, when attacked, in a very precarious
situation. To outrun the snakes was impossible, and to keep them off with-
out the aid of some weapon was as impracticable. The deacon, finding the
snakes winding themselves about his person, one having made his way even
to the Indian’s neck and assaying to put his head into the Indian’s mouth,
Nauhaught permitted it; but no sooner did the reptile thrust in his head
than the sharp incisors inserted in strong jaws closed upon the intruder
and at once decapitated him ; the other snakes’ bright eyes caught sight of
the bloody neck of their leader, and instantly loosened their coils, fleeing
with great precipitation.’ Thus was the deacon, by the power of his jaws,
liberated happily from threatened death.
As we have ventured thus far, the Indian tradition in regard to theANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
177
Fish are abundant here, as in the neighboring towns. Baas
River furnishes in winter a large supply of eels. Fowl, in their
season, are found on the shores and about the ponds and salt-
meadows.
The business of the town is perhaps chiefly maritime.1 Agri-
culture receives some attention; but is by no means in the as-
cendant. The cranberry culture is coming into vogue. Formerly
the salt manufacture occupied a large space in the enterprise of
the people ; this business has greatly declined, but is still very
considerable. Epsom salts are produced in quantities; and a
magnesia factory is in successful operation. The manufacture of
carriages is carried on to some extent, and other varied industrial
pursuits might be noticed — none of the latter, however, are on
a large scale, unless, perhaps an exception be made of the steam
sawing, planing, and grinding mills at South Yarmouth. Yar-
first exploration of the island Nauticon pointed out by the ancient voyagers,
alias Nantucket, and the origin of the fogs in the sound, may as well be
added. The tradition of the Vineyard Indians does not entirely coincide
with this of the Mattacheesetts; but for the variance in the traditions we
are not responsible. We give the latter the benefit of their own story:
‘A great many moons ago, a bird of monstrous size was in the habit of
visiting the south shore of Cape Cod, carrying off pappooses and even
larger children. Its flight was southward. An Indian giant resided in
these parts, by the name of Maushop. Enraged at the havoc made, for
many small children had disappeared, he pursued the bird, wading across
the sound, until he came to an island before unknown. Here, he found
bones of children scattered in heaps around the trunk and under the shade
of a great tree. Wishing now, after the fatigue of fording the sound and
searching the island, to smoke his pipe on his way back, but finding he had
no tobacco, he filled his pipe with poke — a weed that the Indians ever after
used as a substitute when their stock of tobacco failed; — and from the
time of this memorable event fogs have been frequent in Nantucket and
on and around the Vineyard Sound and Nantucket Shoals; so that when-
ever the Indians see a fog arising, they are accustomed to say in their own
tongue what rendered in plain English is, “ There comes old Maushop’s
smoke.” ’
*At the beginning of the present century, this business was considerable.
At Bass River were 6 wharves (3 near the mouth of the river, and & a
mile north of it) ; one brig sailed between this place and the W. Indies;
10 coasters of 30 or 40 tons burden, to Boston, Connecticut, or the South-
ern States, and thence to the W. Indies; 10 vessels (of which one was 100
tons, the others from 40 to 70) were engaged in the fisheries at the straits
of Belle Isle, the shoals of Nova Scotia, or upon Nantucket Shoals. A
fishing vessel used on an average about 700 bu. of salt each year. Some
vessels were annually built at Bass River. In Lewis’ Bay were 4 coasters
of about 45 tons each, and 10 fishing vessels of from 40 to 50 tons each.
— In 1837, there were in S. Yarm. not only extensive salt works—52
establishments — yielding 365,200 bu.; but 13 vessels engaged in the cod
and mackerel fisheries, producing 4,300 qu. of cod-fish, and 2,287 bbls. of
mackerel.
VOL. II.
23178
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
mouth has furnished its full quota of able seamen and accom-
plished commanders. It has ever been regarded as a thriving
town, and has given birth to some distinguished men.
The cause of education has generally been prominent before
the people; of late years it has received an impulse correspond-
ing with the improvements of the age. The old district system
has been abolished, and three large school-houses have been
erected, — one in each section of the town, viz., northern, south-
ern, and western, at a cost of about $12,000. The schools are
“graded,” aeeording to modern practice. The nautical school,
endowed by bequest of the late Joshua Sears, is also in operation.
The other public buildings are of neat and respectable aspect,
to say the least; but without superior architectural pretensions.
The “Barnstable Bank” is located at Yarmouth Port; its capi-
tal $350,000; and in the same building is the office of the “Barn-
stable County Mutual Fire Insurance Co.” A printing-office,
from which issues weekly the “Yarmouth Register,” is also
established at “the Port.” Here is the hotel long known as
“ Sears’.” There are, at the Port, meeting-houses of the Meth-
odists, Universalists, and Swedenborgians; at Yarmouth proper,
of the old Congregational Church; at South Yarmouth, of Meth-
odists, Baptists, aud Friends; and at West Yarmouth, of Con-
gregationalists and Methodists. The private dwellings in the
township are generally neat, and betoken comfort, compe-
tency, and thrift; some of them are fine specimens of the gen-
teel residence. The ancient style of building has in great
measure disappeared; but few of antique appearance remain.
The surroundings of dwellings receive increased attention, and
some streets exhibit a growing appreciation of the beauty and
utility of shade trees.
The population of the town was, according to the census of
1860, about 2,800; and, notwithstanding the fluctuations of busi-
ness,1 maintains a constant increase. The location is eminently
favorable to health, judging by the numerous instances of lon-
1The fishing business had so far declined in 1857 that the 1 Yar. Register’
said of it, “ It has wellnigh died out. Not more than two or three vessels
have been sent from this port the present season, where formerly twenty or
thirty sail were employed. Our citizens have turned their attention to for-
eign commerce, or the coasting and packeting business, which pays alto-
gether better than with our poor facilities for carrying on the fisheries
compared with Provincetown, Gloucester, Wellfleet, and other places on
the coast.*’ In 1863, the same paper says, “ The last of the fishing-fleet
has heen .sold.”ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
179
gevity furnished by records, and the numbers of aged people
that still survive.
As the Yarmouth records prior to 1677 are “lost,”
we have only imperfect materials for the early history
of this town. That there may have been a few settlers
here soon after the settlement of Sandwich was begun
in 1637, is not at all improbable. The permission to .
Mr. Stephen Hopkins, Aug. 7, 1638, “ to erect a house
at Mattacheese, and cut hay to winter his cattle, pro-
vided it do not withdraw him from the town of Ply-
mouth ; ’ and to Gabriel Whelden and Gregory Arm-
strong, Sept. 3; as also the attempt of the Rev.
Stephen Batchelor and associates from Lynn, to estab-
lish themselves here, have already been noticed.1
The ultimate and permanent establishment must un-
doubtedly be referred to the summer of 1639, under
1 See Yol. I. 135-6. Whether the abortive attempt was made within
what are now the bounds of Yarmouth, or Barnstable, or partly within the
present bounds of both, is a question of little moment. We have regarded
it safe, however, to follow the record of Gov. Winthrop. It has been sup-
posed that Mr. Batchelor undertook the establishment of the plantation by
consent of Mr. Callicut. Of Mr. B. much has been gratuitously written to
his disparagement. From all that we gather from his contemporaries, we
infer that he was learned, and, in the judgment of charity, a good man;
but that his whole life, extending through nearly a century of years, was
singularly pregnant with incidents of trial. These were not chiefly the
result of ejectment for nonconformity. Of this act, Mr. Lewis, of Lynn,
has, contrary to the general practice, recorded the following sensible re-
mark : “ The church (of Eng.) has been much censured for her severity;
and all uncharitableness and persecution are to be deprecated. But in
simply ejecting her ministers for non-conformity after they have approved
of her modes of worship, and in the most solemn manner possible engaged
themselves in her service, the church is no more censurable than all other
communities with whom the same practice is common.” Mr. B/s greatest
trials were from quite another source; and it is surprising how far-reaching
were early attempts to frame excuses for harassing with penalties and pur-
suing with vindictiveness those who fell under “ suspicion.” It is equally
notable how ready are some at the present day to catch the strain and
labor to justify detraction even by doubtful traditional circumstances de-
veloped, whether with or without foundation in truth, ex post facto. Rev.
Stephen Batchelor, b. 1560, had 4 sons and 3 drs., viz.: Nathaniel,
Stephen, Henry, Francis, Theodata who m. Christopher Hussey, and is
prob. the ancestor of the Nantucket Husseys, Deborah who m. John
Wing and settled in Sandwich, and a dr. who m. John Sanborn. Among
the descendants of R®^. Mr. B. are claimed Daniel Webster and John G.
Whittier.180
HISTOflflr OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
the auspices of Messrs. Anthony Teacher, John C
and Thomas Howes, grantees.1 A church was
ably organized here at or about the time o|
incorporation of the township, perhaps before,
may, at least, infer this, seeing that the ecclesi
was never, in those days, far behind the civic o
zation, and often preceded it.3 The first settled
ister, it is generally conceded, was the Rev. M
duke Matthews.®
Progress of the Town from its Settlement.
ing invested with municipal rights, the town was
resented in General Court, June 4, 1639, by
Thomas Payne and Philip Tabor.4 Besides these
1	“ Mr. John Crowe, and Mr. Thomas Howes, of Mattacheese, al;
mouth, took the oath of allegiance, 1638; Mr. Anthony Thacher.
1638-9.”
2	It has been claimed that a grant bearing date Jany. 6, 163&
made, in which the original bounds are described as “ extending at
Cape from the north side to the south shore, and from the bounds oJ
stable on the West, to Winslow’s Brook, and to the Herring River a'
Mills.” If such were the bounds originally designated, the terms h
ployed, it is evident, could not have been the descriptive language’
grant, since they do not comport with the times. The fact, howeve*
therefore to be concluded as necessarily apocryphal.
3	Rev. Mr. Matthews came over Sept. 21, 1638, in a ship fron
staple, Eng., and, with his wife, Kathrine, landed in Boston, wl
joined the church Feb. 6, following, and he, Feb. 7, took the oath
giance. He is mentioned by Morton as one of “ those godly and a
pel preachers with whom the Lord was pleased to accomplish and ac
colony, who, being disposed of to the several churches and congre
gave light in a glorious and resplendent manner as burning and
fights.” Gov. Winthrop also styles Mr. Matthews “ a godly m
Intimations of modern origin, made without good cause, and at b
inferential, are utterly unworthy of regard. These, it is true, hav
impugned his piety or learning; but, as if especially called upon tc
ture some better reason than appears, why certain clergymen, '
worthy, were not greatly in favor with the magistrates, unwarrant;
erties have been taken in the premises. One says, “ He was
master, but exercised the ministerial functions at Yarmouth.” The
sion which this statement would create, perhaps not designedly int<
gratuitous. Mr. Matthews was, evidently, in his primary capacity
gyman deserving of honor, though he may have united with his ec*n
cal calling the laudable occupation alleged.	I
4Mr. Philip Tabor was of Watertown, 1634; deputy of Ya
1639 and 1640; afterwards of the Vineyard, and, Savage says
thence to N. London, Ct., but was of Portsmouth, R. L, 1656,
long after at Providence, where he was representative, 1661, aiANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
181
tlemen, and the three before mentioned, “ to whom
the grant of land at Mattacheesett, now called Yar-
mouth,” was made, and “ Mr. Mad rick Matthews,” tb£
pastor, were William Palmer, appointed “ to exercise
the inhabitants in the use of arms;” Samuel Ryder,
William Lumpkin, and Thomas Hatch,1 “ candidates for
freemen” at the opening of the year; and, yet in
abeyance, was “Mr. John Coite.”2 Nicholas Sympkins
and Joshua Barnes soon after appear as citizens, as
also Andrew Hallett ; and, not long after, William
Chase.
It is, indeed, to be regretted that we are under the
necessity of thus gathering the names of the earliest
settlers, as well as items of history, from isolated
materials: —
“ Colligite fragments, ne quid pereat: ”
the destruction of early town records impels to the
duty; nor can we, it is apprehended, avoid the omis-
sion of many names and important facts.
In the progress of events, Walter Deville’s name
appears in an order of court, 1640, touching “lands
hereafter to be laid out and assigned in the town of
Yarmouth,” and “the adjustment of bounds,” 1641;
and in connection with an order “ for defraying the
public charges,” appear the additional names of
Thomas Holland, Crannett White, and Thomas Starr.
In 1642, “ Peregrine White, of Yarmouth,” 3 was ap-
pointed ensign of a military company, of which Myles
Standish was captain, and William Palmer, lieutenant,
Mr. Anthony Thacher being of the council of war.
later at Tiverton. By his wife, prob. Lydia Masters, of Camb., he had
John, bap. at Be., Nov. 8, 1640. He had other children, — Philip, Thos.,
Job, etc. Philip, Jr., had a family in Dartmouth. The wid. of Philip, Sr.,
m. Pardbn Tillinghast, Feb. 16, 1665, his 2d wife.
1	In 1647, he is mentioned as “ the late Thomas Hatch.”
2	Mr. Coil was originally included with the grantees, but went to Salem.
8 So say I le records, but we apprehend there is some mistake.182
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY,
In 1643, military companies were authorized and
organized in town, and the inhabitants were directed
by government “ to provide a place of defence against
sudden assault.” The persons in town liable to bear
arms were: —
Anthony Berry,
Thomas Burman,
Jas. Bursell,
Jno. Burstall,
Wm. Chase, Sr.,
Wra, Chase, Jr.,
Dan’l Cole,
Job Cole,
John Crowe,
Yelverton Crowe,
Rob’t Davis,
Rob’t Dennis,
John Derby,
Wm. Edge,
Roger Else,
Thomas Falland,
Thos. Flawne,
Wm. Granse,
John Gray,
Benj. Hammon,
Andrew Hallet, Sr.,
And. Hallett, Jr.,
Sam’l Hallet,
Richard Hoar,
Thos. Howe,
Tristram Hull,
John Joyce,
Wm. Lumpkin,
Jas. Matthews,
Mr. Mar. Matthews,
Wm. Nicorson,
Hugh Norman,
Wm. Northcutt
Wm. Palmer,
Thos. Payne.
Wm. Pease,
Rd. Pritchards,
Sam’l Ryder,
Richard Sears,
Thomas Starr,
Edward Sturgis,
Nicholas Sympkins,
Richard Taylor,
Richard Templar,
Anthony Thacher,
Hugh Tilley,1
Wm. Twining,
Nidi’s Wadibone,
Henry Whelden,
Emanuel White,
Sam’l Williams,
Peter Worden,2
Thus we gain a larger view of the inhabitants, through colo-
nial records.
In 1644, Mr. Anthony Thacher was “ licensed to draw wines,”
and in 1645, the name of Teague Jones appears as a soldier from
this town, in company with others in the Narraganset war.
In 1646, the Rev. John Miller3 succeeded in the
ministry Mr. Matthews.4
1 The name is afterwards written Hfflier.
* This the only son of Peter Worden, Sr., who became an inhab. of
this town, 1639, and had now deceased.
8 We have said, Vol. I., 249, that Mr. Miller prob. came 1646-7; but the
precise date of the commencement of his pastorate is not certainly known;
nor yet is it certain at what time the ministerial labors of Mr. Matthews were
terminated. That he was succeeded by Mr. Miller there can be no doubt,
however. Johnson’s Wonder-working Providence recognizes this fact, and
the birth of Mr. Miller’s dr. Susannah, in this town, May 2, 164 7-, deter-
mines his location at the time.
4 Rev. Air. Matthews, according to Air. Savage, was from Swansea,ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
183
In 1648, May 18, difficulties that had long existed
respecting lands were happily adjusted. We have,
perhaps, sufficiently adverted to these troubles in our
former volume. It may, however, be proper here to
say that misunderstandings were incident, first upon
the fact that “ although Gov. Bradford had early bar-
gained with the Sagamore, Mashantumpaine, to sell
the lands at Mattacliiest to the whites, the considera-
tion had not been, as was alleged, fully paid, nor the
lands reserved for the Indians clearly defined and
bounded.” These difficulties related to the very first
grants; but succeeding this state of things, lands had,
from time to time, been examined and surveyed, and
some progress had been made in extinguishing Indian
titles. The lands were “ first laid out in furlongs, and
then subdivided for house and farm lots, — the house-
lots being small, and all laid out on the north side of
the road, no one person permitted to own two adjoin-
ing lots to maintain only one house thereon; the
object of this regulation being to secure the settle-
ment of the inhabitants near each other for mutual
Wales; and, Feb. 20, 1674, in his 18th year matriculated at All Souls,
Col., Oxford. Mr. S. supposes he went to Hull about 1644; then to Mal-
den, etc., and returning to England, died in his native place, according to
Calamy, 1683. Mr. S. has it that he prob. had a son Mordecai who grad.
H. C., 1655, and that his son Manesseh was bap. at Be. by Mr. Lothrop,
Jan. 24, 1660. Nothing more of his family is known with certainty. That
he was some time at Hull, and also at Malden, there can be no doubt. In
1651, May 15, he was cited to appear to answer in court for having uttered
in sermons “ unsafe and unsound expressions,” for which he was fined £10,
and the Malden church was also cited to answer for settling him without
the approbation of the magistrates. The marshal, endeavoring to satisfy
the demand lor fine against Mr. M, “ found nothing but his library.” Tra-
dition, highly improbable, locates him at Cape May, 1692; which does not
comport with the account given by Mr. S. and Calamy. Mr. Felt supposes
he left Malden about 1652, and was some time in Lynn, taking passage to
England about 1655, and then exercising his ministry where he was born, in
Swansea. Mr. Felt records this honorable testimony to his merits, “ He
was remarkable, in all his intercourse with others, for making the gospel
the chief subject of coni ^rsation; was very pious and zealous, and con-
tinued useful to the last.” '184
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
defence ” Complaints and court orders do not warrant
the conclusion that the committees did not perform
their duties faithfully to the extent of their ability;
for, it was found that the instructions of the court
were sometimes “ impracticable.”1 The troubles were
prolonged2 until the above date, when, it is said,
* Capt. Standish having, in the month of March pre-
ceding, heard and decided a large number of cases, to
put an end to all complaints, some were ejected, for-
mer grants abrogated, and the properties reverted to
the town.3 Thus,” it is affirmed, “ were finally settled
all the grievances about the laying out of the lands
from the beginning of the plantation.” 4
In 1649 and immediately succeeding years, certain persons who
had not yet attained to the rights of citizenship, were involved
by alleged delinquencies that figure in the court calendar; but
as it would be manifestly unjust to array early offences against
a subsequently irreproachable life, we gladly defer these matters
to any whose taste may incline to luxuriate in such employment.
In 1650, April 22, Mr. Samuel Hallett was drowned at Nauset.
In 1651, March 4, ‘‘Emanuel White of Yarmouth,” was pre-
sented at Plymouth, “for villifying the ministry of Mr. Miller;”
and, at the next session of the court, June 2, the minister, “Mr.
1 Hence the action of the court, March, 1640, approving the doings of
the committee, but ordering that they “ shall receive no more inhabitants
without certificate.”
2Notwithstanding a special court “was held in town, June 17, 1642,”
In consequence of continued dissatisfaction, “ by Edward Winslow, Miles
Standish, and Edmund Freeman, gents., three of the assistants of the gov-
ernment,” when and where “ it was ordered and concluded,” as repre-
sented, “ to the satisfaction of all that Mr. Standish be joined to the com-
mittee of Yarmouth,” and an arrangement was made “ for assigning the
lands by lot.”
8The committee were allowed for their services: Mr. Thacher 110 acres
of upland and 26 of meadow; Mr. Howes and Mr. Crowe each 80 acres
of upland and 20 of meadow.
4An agreement had been made, “May 15, by Capt. Standish, Mr.
Thacher, Mr. Crowe, and Mr. Howes, the committee on the part of the
plantation of Yarmouth; and by Mr. Hoar, Mr. Hawes, Wm. Nickerson,
Wm. Palmer, and Robert Dennis, in behalf of the town, that Mr. Starr,
Wm. Nickerson, and Rt. Dennis shall be joined to the committee for this
present year.”ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
185
Miller was cit 3d to answer for remarks, in sermon, against the
government.”
We are not about to interpose an opinion in regard
to the causes of the agitations of the present times.
The pages of history are not the proper arena for the
expression of individual fancies, nor of dogmatic de-
cisions. It is proper, however, to state succinctly that
great diversities of views on both political and relig-
ious subjects existed in the colonies.1 The agitations
of the day were not peculiar to any one community;
and, in order to estimate the nature or importance
of much that was spoken, written, or otherwise acted
or enacted, it must be borne in mind that such a
condition of things is not most favorable to charitable
construction, correct judgment, or accurately descrip-
tive terms of the' sentiments and doings of oppo-
nents.2
1 Religious dissensions, whether associated with differences of political
views, or not, naturally lead to insubordination; and the fact that the
moral soil of the two colonies had thus early become apt for the intro-
duction of a variety of opposing doctrines tending to troubles that must for
a long time convulse, more or less, every plantation and church, conveys a
sad reflection!
a Opprobrious epithets were freely applied. On the one hand the policy
of those in power was denounced as exclusive and coercive; and on the
other, the least dissent from that policy elicited suspicion. If new doc-
trines were broached, the kind of opposition they encountered added
strength to conviction, and gave increased boldness, and, probably, vehe-
mence to utterance. Mr. Felt tells us that “ the doctrines of ‘ the Seekers9
had spread among the people of the colonies; ” and supposes the letter of
Rev. Mr. Leveridge to Rev. John Wilson, Sept. 22, 1652, refers especially
to their influence: “ It is not unknown to you and others what singular
conflicts I have met withal in my troubles among my own countrymen, —
divers of them transported with their, though not singular, fancies, to the
neglecting of all churches and ordinances, by a new cunning, and, I per-
suade myself, one of the last but most pernicious plots of the devil to un-
dermine all religion.” Mr. L. remarks further that “ but for the persua-
sion of his friends,” he would have moved away with members of his
church, “to a more favorable location.” The ‘ Seekers * were first
known distinctively in England about 1645, and held that the true church
ministry, Scriptures, and ordinances were lost. For these they professed
to seek. They said, “ The Bible is uncertain, the ministry without author-
ity, present modes of worship and ordinances vain, and renewed miracles
necessary to faith.” That there were some in the Cape towns who listened
to such teac) ings, there can be no doubt; but the influences, gradual or
VOL. n 24186
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1652, the sermon preached by Rev. Mr. Miller appears to
have been regarded by the General Court as offering sufficient
occasion to instruct a “jury to make due inquiry to vindicate
the government.”
Whether we find thus early a precedent for polit-
ical discourses from the pulpit, we opine not; but men
were, doubtless, not very unlike those of our own day.
That the practices of some were not entirely dissimilar,
receives confirmation from the fact that there was a
disposition thus early to evade the liquor law :
“William Hedge, of Yarmouth, one of the jurors appointed to
lay out a road from Sandwich to Plymouth, was presented, Oct.
5, for selling wine and strong water without license ” He was,
however, soon after “ elected ensign.”
In 1653 John Gorham and Sergt. Ryder1 wrere deputies to
meet others from the several towns “ to treat and conclude on
military affairs ” Josiah Hallett and Thomas Gage appear on
the court record at this time, charged with “sailing their vessel
on Sunday;” and Francis Baker, “for selling wines without
license.”
In 1654, the town was again without a minister.2
The general complaint of a a growing indifference to
the ministry ” was apropos to this town, as to every
other part of New England.
sudden, that ushered strange doctrines before the public, must he analyzed
to appreciate the existing state of affairs and the trials to which religion
was subjected at this early period of colonial history.
1	Sergt. Ryder was this year promoted to a lieutenancy; hut soon after
presented, “ for affronting the constable when sent to enforce the impress-
ment of men,” and was, for that offence, removed from office and reduced
to the ranks.
2	At what time Rev. John Miller removed is quite uncertain. See
Vol. I., 249, 250. We had supposed that he remained until called to Gro-
ton; but were probably mistaken. His residence here must have ceased long
before. His wife, Lydia, d. in Boston, Aug. 7, 1656. Besides those men-
tioned in Vol. I., and probably other children b. in England, was Mehitable,
b. in Roxbury, July 13, 1638, who m. John Crowe, of Yarmouth; Lydia,
b. 1640, m. Fish, of Sandwich; Susannah, b. 1647, d. at Charlestown, Oct.
14, 1669; Elizh. b. 1649, m. Samuel Frost, of Billerica. Other drs. were
Faith who m. Nathl. Winslow, of Marshfield, Aug. 3, 1664; and Hannah
who m. Joseph Frost, of Charlestown, Nov. 6, 1677.ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
187
“The bounds of lands betwixt Yarmouth and Eastham, be-
longing to the purchasers, ” were defined.1
“William Chase, Sr., of Yarmouth,” was presented “for driv-
ing a pair of oxen in yoke on the Lord’s day, in time of ser-
vice, about five miles.” Mr. Samuel Arnold was this year
deputy.2 *
In 1655, Mr. Anthony Thacher was commissioned “to join
persons in marriage.” John Smith, carpenter, appears on record.
Six wolves were destroyed in town and the bounty claimed.
And complaint was made by John Derby against Mashantam-
paine, Indian, his dogs doing “much damage to cattle.”8 In
1656, Thomas Starr was presented “ for opposing the constable,”
and was fined.4 * * *
In 1657, the inhabitants being engaged in a controversy with
the Sachem, Yanno, about lands, inquiry was ordered by the
court, and a settlement subsequently made. Mr. William Nick-
erson was “ allowed, by court, to have his lands at Monamoiet
viewed, that he may have a competency allowed him.”
In 1655, June 1, Mr. John Miller, son of Rev. Mr. M., was
made freeman by the Plymouth court. Sundry conferences
were held, intended to effect an arrangement final of all difficul-
ties with the Indians.
In 1659, March 1, “the court taking notice that John Wing is
erecting a building in a place that is out of the bounds of the
1	“ From the river of Namskekett to a marked tree and stake a little
beyond the rocky point next Satuckett, on the sea side. The bounds of
the lands of said purchasers to the eastward is from the bounds of East-
ham to the Eastern Harbor, and from thence to a little pond, being the
bounds of the land bought for the country, belonging to Cape Cod. What-
ever whale or blubber shall be cast up against the lands of the purchasers
to belong to them, as unto the towns.”
2	Mr. Arnold, who was liable to bear arms in Sandwich, 1643, had be-
come an inhabitant of this town, but in what capacity he was here is not
known further than that he was deputy in 1654 and 1656. In 1657 he
went to Marshfield, where he was settled in the ministry in 1658, and d.
Sept. 1,1693, aged 71. He probably was here as a religious teacher. He
had by his w. Elizabeth, children born here, viz.: Samuel, May 9, 1649,
who was the first minister of Rochester, 1684 ; Seth, who settled in Dux-
bury; and Elizabeth, who m. Holmes, of Rochester.
8 The Indians were always noted for the possession of an ample supply
of dogs.
4Mr. Thomas Starr was of Huxbury, 1639. He served in the Pe-
quot war. He was some time in Scituate, where he had children born,
viz.: Comfort, 1644, and Elizabeth, 1646 ; then came to this town, “ where
he had been before,” and had b. to him Benj., Feb. 6, 1647-8, and Jehosh-
aphat, Jan. 12,1649-50. He finally xmoved to Charlestown, says Savage.188	HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
township, and conceiving that such practices, if permitted, may
prove prejudicial to the whole, do order that the sd. John Wing
and others that have done or shall do so, be prohibited to per-
sist therein until it be further cleared to what township such
said lands belong on which they build.”1 A portion of the in-
habitants were commended by the court for a disposition to
encourage and support the ministry; the others were censured
for neglect, and orders were issued for a levy to be made annu-
ally. Mr. William Chase died this year.2
In 1661, permission was given to Mr. Thomas Paine “ to pur-
chase lands at Setucket for his mill.” And March 5, Richard
Childs was ordered by the court to “ desist from erecting a cot-
tage within the bounds of the town.”3 He was subsequently
u permitted to enjoy his cottage.” And in 1661, the controver-
sies in relation to “ drift whales ” were rife here, as in other Cape
towns.4
In 1662 is probably to be located the advent here
of the Rev. Thomas Thornton. That he was the third
in succession of the pastorate in this town,5 there can
1	Mr. John Wing left Sandwich early, and seated himself at Sautucket;
its relation to this township then of a somewhat equivocal character, but
the situation which he occupied being considered as within the jurisdic-
tion of Yarmouth. He and John Dillingham, also from Sandwich, became
large land owners.
2	Mr. William Chase came over in 1630. He was constable in Yar-
mouth, 1639, having resided some time both in Roxbury and Scituate.
He brought with him from England a wife Mary, and a son William. He
had a dr. Mary, b. May, 1637, who d., aged 15 ; and a son, Benj., b. 1640.
His will, 1659, mentions his wife Mercy (or Mary), and sons, Wm. Jr.,
and Benj., — the former, eldest, to inherit his estate. He d. in May; his
widow d. in Oct., the same year.
8 The practice of warning new-comers to depart from a town, which pre-
vailed through the colony for a long period, strikes one now as a breach of
hospitality and decorum, and so does the above order: and yet these pro-
ceedings were in conformity with law, and of frequent application. Rea-
sons for the existence of laws authorizing these practices were doubtless
valid,—the circumstances of new settlements requiring great caution in the
admission.to habitancy; and the impartial enforcement of the rule until
the proposed conditions of citizenship were fulfilled, forbade the idea of its
being intended as a reflection upon any one's character. Mr. Child m.
Mary Linnett, Oct. 15, 1649, in Be., and is supposed to be the progenitor
of those, generally, of the name in the county, and Samuel and Richard,
of Barnstable, are supposed to have been his sons. The first was slain in
the Rehoboth battle, March 25, 1675; the latter was ordained a deacon
of the Be. church, Sept. 4, 1706.
4 See Yol. I., 243, 246.
6 We were made, through the error of the compositor, we presume, to
say, in ar other place, that he was the first pastor.ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
189
be scarcely a doubt;1 but the precise date of his set-
tlement is not determinable.2 We are to look for
incidental testimony on this point; but whatever un-
certainty may exist in regard to his entering on his
ministry here the present year, we are sure that he
was in the discharge of its active duties the year fol-
lowing.3 About this time began the use of the title
“Rev. ” — often “ Elder,” instead of “ Me? for Congre-
gational ministers.
In 1663, the vigilance of the law exacted of Thomas Sturgis a
fine of £6 u for bringing liquor into town.” And in 1664, diffi-
culties existed in regard to Monamoiet lands.
In 1665, uthe lands at Monamoiet,” that had been for years
in controversy between Mr. William Nickerson and others, were,
after some adjustment of difficulties, and the subsidence of heat,
adjudged to be “ within the liberties of the town of Yarmouth”4
Mr. Thomas Howes died this year.5
In 1666, at the March term, Thomas Starr and Jonathan
Barnes were fined 40s. each, and Abraham Hedge 20s., “for abu-
sive carriage towards Mr. Anthony Thacher at his house.” In
June, the selectmen of towns were required by the court “to
notice all persons who come to dwell without leave first obtained
of the Governor and two assistants;” the offenders “to be pre-
sented if permission be not thus obtained.” So began the prac-
tice of “ warning ok/ of town.” And, Oct. 31, “ William Nick-
erson, Sr., of Manamoit, having, in a letter to Rd. Nichols, Gover-
nor of New York, scandalously reproached the government of N.
'It will be understood that Rev. Mr. Batchelor, although the min-
ister first here, previous to the final settlement of the plantation, is not in-
cluded. The same remark is applicable to Rev. Mr. Hull, of whom it is
alleged by Mr. Lothrop’s church record that “ he joined himself with a
company at Yarmouth, to become their pastor.”
2 Mather says he was one of those who fled subsequent to the Act of
Uniformity, 1662; and Alden says, “ How soon after this he was settled in
Yarmouth is not certainly known. We find his name in the town records
for 1677, before which the records have been unfortunately lost.”
8 Felt has it that he was here as early as June 18, 1663.
4	See Vol. I., 256.
5	Mr. Thomas Howes was one of the original grantees of the town-
ship, and often represented the town in General Court. His will bears
date Sept. 26, 1665, and his wid. Mary administered, 1665-6. He men-
tions sons Joseph, Thomas, and Jeremiah.190
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Plymouth and the freemen of the jurisdiction,” was required to
give bonds to answer; as also “his sons-in-law, Robert Eldred,
Nath’l Coveil, and Tristram Hedges, who were privy to his con-
duct”1 John Joyce died this year, Dec. 21.
In 1667, March 5, Wm. Lumpkin and Peter Worden were
fined 10s. each, “for disturbance at the Yarmouth meeting-
house;” Mr. Nickerson was called, July 2, to answer for words
spoken against the preaching; and John Miller was licensed to
keep an ordinary. Mr. Anthony Thacher died this year,
Aug. 22.2
In 1669, March 2, sundry persons were fined 6s. each “ for
smoking tobacco at the end of Yarmouth meeting-house on the
Lord’s day, in time of exercise.”
In 1671 the paucity of material for so full history as
we would wish is somewhat relieved by a casual view
of the watchful and gentle spirit of the Christian pas-
tor,— his tender care, not merely to reclaim the erring,
but to make their return to duty more grateful, as
obtained from an intercessory letter addressed to Gov.
Prince. Mr. Thornton, after certifying the offender’s
a acknowledgment of his fault in the public assembly,”
to the satisfaction of all, even of those most wronged,
— the im confession ” of the penitent being inclosed
to the Governor,—'suggests the reason of his being
moved to mediate in his behalf, “ by that tender re-
spect that I bear to a church child when they own the
covenant and are willing to accept of exhortation and
reproofs as he hath done; hoping, likewise, that he
1	It does not comport with manly discrimination to be censorious in esti-
mating the character of early settlers because of occasional disagreements
with the ruling powers, or records of acts liable to be misconceived. Mr.
Nickerson and family were tenacious of what they regarded their rights,
and the disallowance of their purchases made of Indians at an early date,
was the occasion of prolonged disputes and bitter animosities. Mr. Nicker-
son was, on another occasion, fined “ for disrespect to religion; ” and yet he
exercised the office of lay religious teacher at Manomoiet, and continued to
conduct public religious services until Mr. Vickery came.
2	See Vol. I., 142-5. Mr. Savage supposes that Mr. Thacher preached
some time in Marblehead. That he had been a curate in England, there
can be no doubt. Mr. Thacher’s position in the colony, and especially in
Yarmouth, was one of high respectability and large influence.ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
191
will find the honorable court more favorable and
tender towards him.” 1
Three persons were fined, at the March term, 30s. “ for sailing
from Yarmouth to Boston on the Lord’s day,” and three others
were summoned to appear for a like profanation. At the June
term, one of these was also fined 5s. “ for swearing.”
In June, 1672, the “ Committee’s Book of Grants,” opened in
compliance with law, and on which it is written, “John Thacher
was appointed to keep this book, and to enter records therein
the committee being Messrs. “Edmund Hawes, Thomas Board-
man, Andrew Hallett, Thomas Howes, and John Thacher,”
but Messrs. Jeremiah Howes and John Miller being afterwards
substituted “for Capt. Howes and Andrew Hallett; ” contains on
its first page this entry: “Given unto the town of Yarmouth,
their heirs and assigns forever, for the ministry, to lie for that
end and use.forever, a parcel of land for a house-lot, where now
the minister’s house stands; bounded on the north side by the
land of Elisha Hedge; on the west by the highway; on the south
side by the land of Anthony Fray [Fry] and Nathaniel Hall; on
the east side by the river; containing ten acres and a parcel of
meadow land, lying and being in a neck called and known by
the name Hedge’s Neck, containing six acres; and another par-
cel lying and being in the meadow at Canoe Point, bounded on
1 The letter, concluding with compliments to Mrs. Prince, has a black
seal, — the device partially legible, but sufficient remaining to show what
was in the heart of the writer: “ Christvm seqvor. ’ Another instance
we may mention now that we are contributing to illustrate the character-
istics of a good man. In 1G76-7, March G, his eldest having removed to
Boston, the father says, in a letter to Rev. Increase Mather, “ I have here
inclosed, sent my son Theophilus a letter of dismission by appointment of
the church in Yarmouth. Though I know that I speak to one that is ten-
der of souls, yet fatherly affection will be working. By a letter I did
lately receive from him, I perceive that he is dejected in spirits; therefore,
dear sir, let me beseech you to take the more care of him. I bless God
that so long as he was with us, he was well-beloved of the most choice
brethren.” Thus much for paternal love. And now, as an instance of fra-
ternal correspondence, we will quote from another letter to Mr. Mather:
“ One thing by which you have gained much in my heart, is the faithful-
ness I find m your ministry and in your writings, inasmuch as you lend
your study to strike at the sins of the backsliding times. Another thing,
which others, with myself, take notice of, that you endeavor to be exem-
plary to others in your conversation and in the habits of your wife and
children. I speak to this end that God may have the glory and you be
encouraged in your way of well-doing; for I see that in some ministers of
the gospel that doth not well become their so holy calling,— especially ir
some of the younger sort of ministers.”192
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
the north side by the meadow of Samuel Hall; and on the west
side by the meadow of Thomas Howes; this contains four acres,
more or less; and another parcel of planting land at Nobscus-
sett, bounded on the north side by the land of Joseph Howes,
and on the south side by the meadow of John Hall, Sr., and
Joseph Howes, containing eight acres, more or less.” In 1673,
in the month of January, Mr. John Crowell died.1
In 1674, the ever-to-be-regretted loss of town rec-
ords by fire occurred.2 3 * * * *
A memorandum of former transactions in the handwriting of
Mr. Anthony Thacher, and witnessed by his sons, appears, cer-
tified at this date, showing that Mashantampaine was fully com-
pensated for lands at or near Stony Cove, etc.8 “ Monamoyick99
was “ ordered to be included in the town of Eastham.” It had
been hitherto considered as “within the liberties of Yarmouth.”
It was ordered, June 3, “that the freemen of the several towns
have their names placed on record; none to be proposed here-
after as freemen, unless approved by a majority of the town for
1	Mr. Crowell came over 1635; in 1638 sold lands in Charlestown, and
was early in Yarmouth, with his wife Elishua. He had sons, Moses, bap.
in Charlestown, 1637, who prob. d. young; John, Thomas, and Samuel.
The name was long written Crow, sometimes Crowes, Croel, and finally
subsided into the present form.
2	We could wish that the loss of town records ended here; but many
pages of subsequent date are mutilated, worn, or nearly illegible.
3	“ Witnesseth these presents, that I, Masshantampaigne, Sagamore, doth
acknowledge that I have received and had of Anthony Thacher, Mr. John
Crow, and Mr. Thomas Howes, all and every particular thing and things
that I was to have for all and every part and parcel of lands,” etc., etc. . .
“ which sd. lands I sold to Mr. William Bradford, Esq. I say, I acknowl-
edge myself fully satisfied and paid, . . and I do forever acquit the sd.
Thacher, Crow, and Howes. . . In witness whereof I have hereunto set
my hand the 8th day of May, 1657.
“ The mark lx of Masshantampaigne.
“ Signed and delivered in presence of
“ John Thacher,
“Judah Thacher.
“ There were also present Mr. John Crow, his wife, and Elizabeth
Thacher, and Indian Felix.”
“ I John Thacher, aged about 35 years, do testify that when my father
took this above writing of Masshantampaigne, I was by and heard him own
it, and saw him set his hand; and I set my name at that time as a witness.”
“ Taken upon oath, this 9th day of Feb. 1674, before me,
“John Freeman, Assistant.”ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
193
citizenship in which they are proposed.” Mr. Richard Taylor
died this year.1
In 1675, nothing worthy of note occurs beyond the
Indian troubles. The Narraganset battle, Dec. 19, in
which contest Capt. John Gorham and others from the
Cape towns distinguished themselves, and in which
numbers fell, is memorable. Public gratitude is gen-
erally slow in its expression by remunerative acknowl-
edgments ; it was not until nearly all those who sur-
vived the fight were deceased, that the appropriation
of “ the Narraganset townships ” was made.
In 1676, “town councils of war” being ordered,
Messrs. Edmund Hawes, John Miller, and Jeremiah
Howes were appointed. The requisitions for soldiers
and money were frequent and cheerfully met2 Capt
John Gorham died at Swansey, Feb. 5, of fever con-
tracted in the service in which he and his associates
1	There were two contemporary Rd. Taylors. To distinguish them, one
was called Rock, from the location of his dwelling; the other, Tailor Tay-
lor. We suppose this to have been the latter, and that his children were
John, Joseph, Mary, Martha, Elizabeth, Anne, Hannah, and Sarah.
2	“ List of soldiers that were pressed into the country’s service, and
went to Mount Hope against our enemies the Indians, in the year 1675,
and took their first march June 24: Dan’l Baker, Wm. Baker, Thos. Bax-
ter, Jno. Berry, Jno. Chase, Jas. Claghorn, Jno. Crowell, Yelverton Crow-
ell, Joseph Egleston, Thos. Folland, Wm. Folland, John Gorum, Capt.,
Wm. Grey, Jos. Hall, Nath Hall, corp., Sam. Hall, corp., Sam. Howes, Sam.
Jones, Rd. Lake, Jno. Matthews, Jno. Pugsley, Benj. Ryder, Jas. Sever-
ance, Jona. Smith, Jno. Taylor, Rd. Taylor, Sam. Thomas, Thos. Thorn-
ton, Jos. Whelden, and Jotham White.-------Egf3 Horses lost: Mr. Thorn-
ton, Benj. Ryder, Jona. Smith, Paul Sears, Jno. Crowell, Mr. Mayo, Ens.
Thacher, Thos. Borman, and Ananias Wing.”
“ Second Expedition to Narraganset: Capt. Gorum, Sergt. Wm. Gray,
Corp. Jno. Hallett, Ananias Wing, Benj. Hall, Sam’l Sturgis, Hy. Gold,
Wm. Chase, Jas. Claghorn, Jno. Pugsley, Sam’l Baker, Rd. Taylor, Jno.
Whelden, Sergt Nath’l Hall, Hy. Gage.”
“ Third Expedition, one month’s service: Capt. Thomas Howes, Sergt.
Sam. Hall, Ab. Hedge, Jno. Matthews, Jno. Whelden, Sam. Thomas, Sam.
Young, Jno. Taylor, Benjamin Ryder.”
“ Fourth Expedition, mne men, with Capt.: Hy. Gold, Jno. Taylor, Wm.
Gage, Hy. Gage, Wm. Nickerson, James Maker, Jno. Matthews, Jno.
Whelden, Benj. Ryder.”
“Fifth Expedition: Capt. Howes and 21 nen.”
“ Sixth Expedition: Ens. Jno. Thacher.”
VOL. II.	25194
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
so bravely fought Mr. Richard Sears also died this
year at Sursuit, aged 86;1 Mr. Judah Thacher2 and
Mr. Thomas Howes 3 were also added to the lists of
mortality. Rev. John Mayo also died here this year,
having left Boston in 1673, being very aged and in-
firm, to reside with his daughter, Mrs. Joseph Howes.
A “ rate ” made this year, April 29, by Messrs. Ed-
mund Hawes, Samuel Rider, and James Matthews,
“ towards the charge of the late war,” shows both the
tax-paying inhabitants at this date, and their compara-
tive wealth. We retain the order of names, inasmuch
as it probably indicates neighborhood.
Yelverton Crowe,	£4. 1		Wm. Folland,	13. 1
Richard Berry,	1.10.	3	Samuel Rider,	5. 2. 6
John Miller,	3. 8.	9	Joseph Rider,	2.14. 3
Elizabeth Taylor,	8.	3	Gershom Hall,	1.13. 9
Rd. Taylor,	2.17.	9	Sam. Matthews,	1.13
Hy. Whelden,	13.	1	Teague Jones,	2. 4
David O’Kelia,	2. 6.	9	Jno. Taylor,	3. 8.10
Teage JVIerrihew,	L 4		Sam. Crow,	2. 8. 4
Zachary Rider,	3.15		John Crow, Jr.,	1. 1
'See Yol. I., 137. An interesting account of Mr. Richard Sears
and family is given in the.chapter on “ The Pilgrim Fathers” in the third
series of Vicissitudes of Families, published by Sir Bernard Burke, LL. D.,
Ulster King of Arms, etc., printed by Longman & Co., Paternoster Row,
London, 1803. We shall advert to this again in our Annals of Chatham.
2	Mr. Judah Thacher, s. of Anthony, m. Mary Thornton, dr. of Rev.
Thomas. Issue: Eliza., 1067, who became the 2d w. of Mr. Joshua Gee
of Boston, Dec. 7, 1705 ; and after his d. m. Rev. Peter Thacher of Mil-
ton, 1727; Thomas, May 18, 1669; Mary, March 17, 1671, who married
Moses Draper of Roxbury, Nov. 13, 1692, and 2d, Joseph Grant of Bos-
ton, Aug. 17, 1704; Judah, who d. inf.; Anne, Oct. 31, 1674, d. single;
and Judah, Dec. 7, 1676. The date of Mr. T.’s decease we cannot give;
but he was buried Nov. 7, 1676. He had two sons and three drs. then liv-
ing, not of age. The wid. d. Nov. 30, 1708, aged 68, at her dr. Grant’s,
and was buried on Copp’s Hill, Boston. Thomas, b. 1669, prob. went to
Tolland, Ct. Judah, b. 1676, d. 1705, — a mariner, single, and Joshua
Gee, his brother-in-law, ad. on his estate, May 20.
3	Mr. Thomas Howes d. in Nov. He is often mentioned in the rec-
ords with the prefix of Capt. He was son of the grantee Howes, and
ad. freeman 1647, and occupies a prominent place on the records, both as
selectman and representative. By his m. with Sarah Bangs, dr. of Edw.,
1656, he has issue: Rebecca, Dec., 1657; Thomas, May 2, 1663; Jona-
than, Feb. 25, 1669-70; and Sarah, Oct. 2d, 1673.ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
195
Wm. Eldredge,	3.12. 3	Jos. Howes,	7.11
Josljua Allen,	1. 6. 9	Sam. Howes,	2. 6. 9
Sara. Hall,	4. 8. 9	Mrs. Prence,	1. 3. 4
John Hall, Sr.,	3.10. 2	Nathl. Hall,	15. 5
Hy. Vincent,	5. 9.11	Jno. Whelden, Sr.,	4. 6. 7
Kenel. Winslow,	4.13. 6	| Jerh. Howes,	7.14
Wm. Griffin,	3.10. 2	Edw. Sturgis, Jr.,	6.14. 6
Wm. Chase,	3. 7. 2	| Thomas Folland, Sr.,	5. 6
\ Peter Worden,	8. 2. 3 : Jno. Pugsley,		11. 3
Jos. Severence,	16. 3	| Joseph Benjamin,	2.13. 7
^ Sam. Worden,	5. 1. 6	Jno. Thacher,	6. 6.10
Jno. Dillingham,	6.17. 9 Jas. Matthews,		3.
Jno. Wing,	5.16. 3	Edm. Hawes,	4. 9. 5
Annanias Wing,	3. 6. 9	. Thos. Folland, Jr.,	4. 3
Joseph Wing,	2.16	j Rd. Michall,	2. 2
John Baker,	1. 2	j Jerh. Jones,	2.14
Judah Thacher,	3.10. 2	; Hannah Grey,	1.11. 3
Sam. Jones,	12. 4	Rd. Lake,	14. 4
Win. Gray,	13. 9	Jno. Hadaway,	14. 4
James Bursell,	2.12. 3	Edw. Crowell,	1.18. 6
Anthy. Fry,	1. 7. 6 Mary Sturgis,		1. 0. 7
Abisha Marchant,	1.15. 3	Jno. Fenny, Sr.,	16. 6
Mr. Sunderland,	1.10	Paul Sears,	5. 8. 7
Mr. Thornton,	2.10	Silas Sears,	1. 8. 6
Sarah Matthews,	2. 1. 3	Mr. Mayo,	2. 4. 3
Joseph Hall,	3	Jas. Meker,	11
Francis Baker,	2. 6. 9	Nathl. Baker,	1.14. 2
Jno. Merrihew,	2. 2. 6	Thos. Gage,	2. 6. 9
And. Hallett,	13. 1. 3	Hugh Stewart,	12.15. 6
Hosea Joyce,	5. 7. 7	Jno. Chase,	12. 4
John Crowe, Sr.,	3.10. 6	Danl. Baker,	13. 9
Wm. Hall,	1. 2	Jas. Claghorn,	2.15. 3
Zach. Paddock,	3. 7. 6	Nathl. Bassett,	2. 9. 6
Capt. Howes,	6. 7. 3	Thos. Borman,	1. 7
Jno. Ryder,	2.14. 9	Mrs. Gorum,	3. 7. 6
Jno. Hawes,	3.10. 6	Jabez Gorum,	2. 6. 3
Nich. Nickerson,	3.10.11	Jno. Matthews,	13. 6
Jno. Hall, Jr.,	2.15	Jno. Burges,	4. 1
Elisha Hedge,	7. 8. 8	Jno. Marchant,	2.11
Edw. Sturgis, S \,	7.11. 3	Mr. Yesson, of Boston,	18
Abm. Hedge,	1. 7. 6	Total, £297	
£297196
HISTORY QF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1 577, May 23, the first town-meeting the record of which
has survived, was held, when Messrs. John Miller and Jere-
miah Howes were appointed commissioners; John Whelding
and Gorham Hall grand-jurors; Wm. Eldred and John Ryder
surveyors; and Edmund Hawes, Edward Sturgis, Sr., Mr.
Thacher, Mr. Miller, and Jeremiah Howes, selectmen. At a
town-meeting, May 30, “the townsmen of Yarmouth did fore-
warn John Wing and our neighbors of Sawtucket from purchas-
ing any of our lands in the bounds of our township, of any
Indians, or to take any possession thereof from them, as being
contrary to court order.” Mr. Sturgis’ license to keep an ordi-
nary was recalled by court. Mr. Judah Thacher’s estate was
administered by his widow, Mary; and the wife of a prominent
inhabitant hung herself, — the first suicide on record in these
towns.
Instances of self-destruction had not been so rare
in the Massachusetts colony;1 but whatever the dis-
comforts of life in new settlements, the principles and
moral courage of the early settlers here had remained
firm:
“ To death we may with joy resort,
As seamen from a tempest to their port;
Yet to that port ourselves we must not force
Before our pilot, Nature, steers the course.”
In 1678. the names of the freemen of the town, on
record at the May meeting, were: —
John Burges,
Joseph Hall, Jr.,
Samuel Hall,
Thomas Hall, Sr.,
Edmund Hawes,
John Howes,
Jeremiah Howes,
Jeremiah Howes,
Joseph Howes,
Sam’l Howes,
John Miller,
Zach. Paddock, Sr.,
John Ryder, Sr.,
Joseph Ryder,
Zach. Ryder,
., Paul Sears,
Silas Sears,
Edward Sturgis,
Je. Taylor,
John Thacher,
Peter Thacher,
Thos. Thornton,
Henry Vincent,
Col. Winslow.
Hn the Mass. Colony, “ Oct. 16, 1660, the court, considering how far Sa-
tan doth prevail upon persons to make way with themselves,” in order to
“ deter therefrom ” and “ to bear testimony against such wicked and unnat-
ural practice, do order that such persons shall be denied the privilege of the
common burial-places of Christians, and shall be buried in some common
highway, and a cartload of stones laid upon the grave as a brand of infamy,
and a warning to others.”ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
197
The subject of baptism had become at this time
politically interesting; and the quiet of the pastor’s
ministry was threatened by discordant views. The
synod of 1662 had recognized the “half-way cove-
nant.” “ Church members admitted in their minority,
understanding the doctrines of faith, and publicly pro-
fessing their assent thereto, not scandalous in life,
their children are to be baptized.” To this view, con-
sonant with the pastor’s practice when yet a minister
of the Church of England, he still adhered.1 It is
well understood that the prime idea of a majority of
the first colonists of New England was “ the church,
not the State.” They legislated, as they supposed, for
the purity and prosperity of the church. The right
of suffrage was limited with this intent, and all ele-
ments that, in the apprehension of the government
were hostile to pure religion, were thus excluded from
political influence. “ Only the baptized and regener-
ate,” — regenerate according to their views, — could be
church-members; and only the children of church-
members could, by their parents’ right, be baptized.
Those baptized “ not joining the church,” their chil-
dren were denied baptism; and not being church-
members by baptism, without profession could not be
freemen. The tendency of the synodal act had been
to enlarge the right of franchise.
In 1679, “ Select Courts ” being authorized for each town,
Messrs. “Edmund Hawes, Ensign Thacher, Edward Sturgis,
1 The Rev. John Cotton, of Plymouth, writing, Aug. 28, 1678, to his
brother-in-law, Mather, says, “ Mr. Thornton hath begun and practised the
Synod’s 5 Prop., baptizing sundry. There are five or six dissenting breth-
ren. I wish twenty of your book of the 1st Prin. de Bap. were in Yar-
mouth ; they might be of great use to establish the unsettled.” It is
Eer to say the action of the synod was an innovation upon the practice
jrto, and led to much trouble. Mr. Mather defended the action of the
synod. Ther i were able and zealous men on both sides; the controversy
was earnest, :nd a flood of pamphleteering ensued.198
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
John Miller, and Jeremiah Howes were appointed to hold them
here.” Messrs. Edward Sturgis, Joseph Howes, and John Hall, Jr.,
were appointed “ to collect the residue of Mr. Thornton’s salary,
so he may not remain unpaid of his due, to the blemish of the
town.” Such proceedings were not infrequent, but at this time
were imperative by the enactments made in consequence of gen-
eral neglect in the colony “ to promote the great object of pub-
lic worship.” The annual stipend here, of £60, was payable,—
a portion in money, but chiefly in the products of the soil.1
It was also “ordered and concluded,” May 11, “that every
ratable oerson shall kill, or cause to be killed, six old black-
birds, or crows, by the last of July next, or pay 2s. 6d. for the
neglect; — the fine to be added to the rate of such as do not
bring in the full tale of birds or heads to the men appointed to
receive them.”
In 1680, March 15, an agreement was made “with our neigh-
bors, the purchasers or proprietors of the land between Stoney
Brook and Bound Brook,” subsequently signed by Ananias Wing,
Paul Sears, Kenelin Winslow, and John Dillingham, Jr., on the
one part, and by John Thacher, Sam’l Howes, Thomas Sturgis,
and Josiah Thacher in behalf of this town. In 1681, Mr. Rich-
ard Berry died.2
In 1682, Aug. 12, it was ordered in town meeting, that no In-
dian shall be permitted to gather pine knots, or run any kiln, or
work about tar in any part of the township.
In 1683, we catch a glimpse at the house for public
worship, in its improved condition:
“At a town meeting, May 16, it was ordered “that Capt.
Thacher and the selectmen shall agree with a workman to finish
the meeting-house, both within and without, so far as they shall
see needful,3 * * * * 8—ceil it with boards, glaze the windows, mend the
1	The next year, Aug. 16, the town ordered that half the stipend be pd.
in species ; the other part in Indian corn at 3s. per bu., and rye the same ;
“ or in any other species (spesya) at the price our merchants do take at.”
2	Mr. Richard Berry was in Be., 1643, and soon after here. By his
wife, Alice, he had b. in this town 11 children. The record, worn and
torn, but partially reveals their names or dates. All that can be gath-
ered is, John, March 29, 1652; Elisa., March 5, 1656. It is known, how-
ever, that he had also sons, Richard, SamT, Nath’1, and Joseph; also a dr.
Elisa., who m. Josiah Jones, Nov. 28, 1677. '
8 The question, doubtless, often presents itself to the mind of any one ex-
amining old records of similar improvements, whether the style and cost of
“ the meeting-house,” ind ates the quality of the private residences.ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
199
window-seats, and secure them from wet, underpin, <fcc.; and
bring in an account of the charges to be paid by rate.”
In 1684, Mr. Andrew Hallett died.1 In 1685, Feb.
27, Mr. William Chase died.2 In 1686, a road was made
“ 40 ft. wide, extending from Satucket River westward
to the county road of Barnstable.” In 1689, Jan. 28,
Mr. John Crowell died, aged 51;3 and in 1690, March
9, Mr. Thomas Crowell died, aged about 45.4
In 1691 the Rev. John Cotton was settled as col-
league with Mr. Thornton, whose age admonished both
pastor and people that such provision was necessary.
It were not strange if the rigors of a colonial life,
commenced at an age when mosUmen think of retire-
ment, and continued now nearly thirty years, had in
some measure hastened the event; but the venerable
pastor’s infirmities were not premature; he was now
verging towards fourscore and ten. He felt that he
must soon cease from his labors, and was, doubtless,
glad to find present support in one whom he regarded
worthy to succeed him in his parochial charge.5
1	We have no authentic information in regard to Mr. Andrew Hal-
lett, Sr., and must rely on the conclusions of others. Some have it that
he is the one of whom Lechford, in his “ Plain Dealing,” speaks, and calls
him school-master. Winsor gives his estate at £1,180. The account given
of him is that by his wife, Mary, in Eng., he had Bathsheba; Andrew; Sam-
uel, drowned at Nauset, 1650; John, who settled in Scituate; Hannah,
prob. b. in Barnstable, and m. Jno. Hathaway, July 1, 1656; Josias, mari-
ner ; and Joseph, who settled in Barnstable. Andrew, son of the above,
by his wife, Anne, had Dorcas, bap. June, 1, 1646; Jonathan, Nov. 20,
1647; John, Dec. 11, 1650; and probably Mehitable; also Ruhamah, who
m. Job Bourne, 1664; and Abigail, who m. Capt. Jona. Alden, Dec. 10,
1672. In 1640, July 28, Andrew Hallett, of Sandwich, conveyed to
Daniel Wing certain property in S., and removed to Yarmouth.
2	This is William, Jr., son of Wm., Sr., who has been the subject of un-
fortunate remark. His children are said to have been William; John, who
is reported by Savage as the Cape ancestor; Elisa.; and Abraham.
3	Mr. John Crowell, b. about 1638, s. of John, resided at Nobscusset.
He is called Sr., to distinguish him from the son of Yelverton. He m. Me-
hitable Miller, dr. of Rev. John, and had John, 1662; Samuel, who d.
single, 1723; Mehitable; Lydia, who m. Ebnr. Goodspeed, 1680; Jeremiah,
1670; Elisa.; Susannah; and Hannah, who m. Joseph Studley, 1706.
4	Mr. Thomas Crowell, resident at Bass Ponds, by his w. Agnes, had
John, Thomas, and perhaps others.
6 It is s'mply an act of duty here to remark in regard to that class of200
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1692, “the last of January, old Goody Wing
died.” This is all that the records tell us; and the
entry has given rise to the conjecture that she was
the widow of John Wing, Sr., who early settled in
Sandwich, and who has been supposed to have been
of the company that in 1638, with Rev. Mr. Batchelor,
attempted a settlement at Mattacheese.1 The Cape
towns are henceforward a part of the “ Province of
Massachusetts Bay.”
In 1693, Mr. Thornton removed to Boston, and his
colleague became sole pastor;2 but not, it would seem,
men, generally, who left England in consequence of the Act of Uniformity,
of whom Mr. Thornton was one, that Bishop Burnett bears honorable tes-
timony, saying, “ Many of them were much valued and distinguished by
their charities and zeal,” and Mr. Locke pronounces them “worthy,
learned, pious, orthodox divines.”
1	It may be that the elder John Wing, the progenitor, was of that com-
pany ; but it certainly finds no corroboration in the fact that the records
now report the decease of the above aged matron; nor can it be rationally
supposed that she was the widow of the first John; if a record of the death
of the wife of his son John, who settled early at Sawtucket, the terms of
the announcement would be appropriate, and the entry would naturally be
expected in the Yarmouth records, as this town exercised jurisdiction
there.
2	It may be presumed that Mr. Thornton had resigned; at all events, he
probably meant to cease entirely from his labors, and this is confirmed by the
fact that in 1694 his name no longer appears in the list of “ the freemen
of Yarmouth.” (See Yol. I., 338.) Mr. Thornton’s family was of ancient
Yorkshire lineage. Richard, a merchant of York, 1514, had by his wife,
Jane, who was dr. of John Norman, of York, a son John living in 1584, at
Birdforth, parish of Coxwold, in the North Riding of Yorkshire; and this
John, whose wife was Anne, dr. of Christopher Tomlinson, of the same
parish, had, besides other issue, two sons, viz.: Richard, of Gray’s Inn, who
d. without issue, and was buried in Aldermanbury church, London, and
Thomas, whose wife was Ellen, dr. of Percival, son of Lord Lumley; and
this Thomas had John, of Birdforth, 1581, who m. Grace, dr. of Thomas
Withers of Copgrave, and d. about 1628, leaving issue: Margaret and
Mary, who had the tithes of Birdforth, and Thomas, b. 1609, which Thomas
was of the Non-conformists, and eventually became the minister of Yar-
mouth. Such is the legend. Rev. Thomas Thornton, according to the
best information attainable, had, by his wife, Mary, issue as follows: Mary,
b. about 1640, who m. Judah Thaclier; Anne, who m. Nath’l Hall; The-
ophilus, Thomas, Priscilla, and Timothy. Whilst the faithfulness and
devotion of Mr. T. as pastor is evidenced by many concurrent testimonies,
the correspondence of the day proves that in all his rugged experiences he
had in his wife, Mary, an excellent helpmeet; her religious character, sym-
Eathies, and mental endowments eminently qualifying her for the position she
*dd. Theophilus, eldest son, served in the Indian war, 1675-6 ; then re-
moved to Boston, and was one of the projectors of the settlement at Wor-ANNALS OP YARMOUTH.
201
by any conditiDns of his engagement as assistant to
Mr. Thornton; for, March 14, it was voted to give
Mr. Cotton “ for his yearly maintenance and encour-
agement to settle among us in the work of the min-
istry, £56; ” and Oct. 1, an additional inducement
was proffered, viz., “ £60 and the new town-house,” —
meaning parsonage, — “barn, lands,” etc., “provided
he do spend his natural life here.”
Messrs. Joseph Howes, John Hawes, John Miller, and John
Hallett were appoihted a committee “ to agree with some fit per-
son to teach school.” The school was “to be kept in five squad-
rons,” — divisions; and the bounds of each were thus defined:
“ 1st, beginning at Jonathan Hallett’s, and round the said towu
to Ilosea Joyce’s, Joseph Ryder’s, Sam’l Hall’s, and Joseph
Meker’s, from Sept. 1, to Jan. 3; 2d, beginning at John Godfrey’s
and all Nobscusset and Zachariah Paddock’s, from Jan. 4 to
April 10; 3d, beginning at Wid. Boardman’s, to Sawquetucket
cester. Thomas, it has been supposed, was the schoolmaster at Weymouth,
1707. Timothy, the youngest, b. about 1650, in Eng., as appears from
depositions made by him July 28, 1680, when “ about 30 years old,” being
“ about 12 or 13 when my father came over,” joined the 1st church in Bos-
ton, Sept. 17, 1671, and continued in its communion 27 years, a prominent
and active member. In 1690, he took letters of dismission to the North, or
2d church, continuing 23 years, at the expiration of which time he transferred
his relation to the New North, and continued there to his death. At his
majority, he engaged in business in Boston, which business became exten-
sive and prosperous. He built and employed ships that made voyages to
Barbadoes, St. Christopher's, etc.; and, besides large estates in Boston, had
possessions in Woburn, Ipswich, Lynn, and Braintree. In 1685, he “ caused
to be built a part of the line of wharf before the town of Boston,” — a
work that was a notable advance in the facilities for marine traffic. Thus
early was Cape Cod energy and enterprise felt in the metropolis. Before
closing this note we must not forget to notice the youngest daughter of the
venerable ex-pastor. We have noticed the others who were married and
notable women, elsewhere. Priscilla is mentioned by Mather, in the
Magnalia, as the “ 2d Example of Children in New England in whom the
fear of God was remarkably budding before they died, — preserved and
published for the encouragement of piety in other children.” In that “Nar-
rative,” the author says: “ Mr. Thomas Thornton, the aged and faithful
pastor of Yarmouth, was blessed with a daughter, Priscilla, which at the
age of eleven left this world, having first given demonstrations of an exem-
plary piety. . . It pleased God to bless the words of her godly mother. . .
It was her singular happiness that she had such godly parents. . . Unto her
mother she said, ‘ Why do you weep when I am so well in my soul ? why
will you mourn when I am so full of joj ? I pray you, rejoice with me/ ..
To her father she said, 4 Oh, my father, ^ know that I shall die; but Christ
is better than life;' and in a most joyfiil frame continued until she died.”
VOL. II.	26202
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY!
mill or river, from April 11, to June 19; 4th, Bass Pond squad-
ron, from Thomas Folland’s, Benj. Matthews’, and all the east
side of Bass River, from June 20 to July 17; 5th, South Sea
squadron, beginning at Thos. Bills’, all the west side of Bass
River and South Sea, and to Thos. Batter’s, from July 15, to last
of August.” Bounties were offered for wolves; £1 for old, and
5s. for young wolves over the amount allowed by law. Mr. Ed-
mund Hawes died this year, Jan. 9.1
In 1694, “ Capt. John Thaclier, Lt. Silas Sears, Mr. John Miller,
Mr. Thomas Sturgis, and Sergt. Joseph Ryder,” were appointed
to the important duty “ of seating men, women, and others in
the meeting-house.”
Some irregularities, as might well be expected,
would be observable in course of time, and hence it
was necessary that a revision be occasionally made,
that due etiquette and decorum might be maintained.
The duty of “ seating ” a congregation was always
assigned to good men and true, and though their task
was a very delicate one, all seem to have acquiesced
readily in their decision.
Samuel Hall Sr. died this year, Jan. 20;2 also Mr. Henry
Welden, Oct. 28.
In 1695, a grant was made to Joseph Willard, of “ 3 or 4 acres
of upland adjoining Benj. Matthews.” The town’s meadow at
Sympkin’s Neck, at Nobscussett, was leased to Sam’l Howes.;
and John Taylor was appointed to take care of the meeting-
*Mr. Edmund Hawes came from Southampton, 1635, in “ the James.”
He had been a cutler in London. He was a very prominent townsman,
and a representative from this place many years. His son John, who m.
Desire Gorham, dr. of Capt. John, Oct. 7, 1661, had Elisa., Oct. 5, 1662;
Mercy June 10, 1664; Edmund March 2, 1668-9; John May 14, 1671;
Joseph July 16, 1673; Jabez March 24,1678; Isaac Feb. 28,1680-1;
and Benj. March 10, 1652-3. Joseph, b. 1674, had by his w., Mary, Sar
rah April 1, 1690; Elisa. Nov. 7, 1697 ; Edmund June 13, 1699; Thos.
May 16, 1701-2; Mary March 23, 1703-4; Tempe. Dec. 3, 1705; David
Oct. 17, 1707; Prince Dec. 29, 1709; and Thankful April 16, 1712.
Edmund, b. 1699, m. Mary Freeman, of H., wid. of Nath'!, and dr. of
James Paine, of Be., 1729, and had Edmund, Mary, and Elizabeth.
Prince, b. 1709, grad. II. C., 1728, and by his w., Anne, had Prince
April 15, 1736; Anne June 29, 1739, who d. April 28, 1765; Simeon
March 22, 1745; and son 1746 d. inf.
2 Mr. Samuel Hall Sr. was s. of John Sr., who d. two years after
him. See next page. ‘ANNALS OP YARMOUTH.
203
house for on 3 year, for which service £1 was allowed. Mr.
Joseph Howes Sr.,1 died this year, January 19. Mr. Edward
Sturgis, of this town, died in Sandwich, in Oct.,2 and “ Mrs.
Mary Prence, relict of Gov. P.,” died in this town, Dec. 9.
In 1696, leave was granted to Mr. Shubael Gorham “to cut and
carry out of town’s commons pine timber to build his house.”
An order was passed, intended to promote the raising of sheep.
John Godfrey was appointed “to look after the meeting-house.”
This appointment was recalled, and “it was agreed with Mr.
Cotton that his Indian, Saxuant, should do it,” for which £1 was
to be paid him or Mr. C. The town ordered the payment, “in
part, of what is due of the minister’s salary.” It was also
“ agreed that each townsman shall give and haul to the minister
a load of wood.” John Hall Sr.8 died this year, July 23;
Francis Baker also died, aged 85.4
*Mr. Joseph Howes Sr., s. of Capt. Thos., m. Elizabeth Mayo, dr. of
Rev. John, and had Samuel, Joseph, John, Nathaniel, Thomas, Amo3,
Mary, Elisa., and Hannah.
2	The mutilated state of the records forbids the hope of a full genealogy
of this family, known to have been of high respectability and of wealth in
the town. Mr. Edward Sturgis Sr. was in Charlestown, 1634, and
here 1639. The Be. ch. rec. tell us that his dr. Mary was bap. at Be.,
June 1, 1646 ; and the Old Col. rec., that Elisa, was b. April 20, 1648, at
Yarmouth; and that Joseph was buried March 29, 1650, aged 10 days.
This is all. There is no doubt, however, of his having other children, or of
his being the progenitor.
3	Mr. Hall, from Coventry, Eng., to Charlestown, 1630, in his will, bear-
ing date, July 15, 1694, and pr. 1696, mentions eight children then living.
He had two born before he came to Be., 1641. His 1st w. was Bethia. He
m. 2d, Elizabeth Larned. Issue: Samuel, of Y., who m. Elisa. Pollard, and
d. without issue, 1694, his wid. becoming w. of Jeremiah Jones, 1699; John
1638, d. inf.; Shebar 1640, d. young; Joseph 1642; John Sept. 25, 1645,
by 2d m.; Elisa. 1647, d. inf.; Elisa. Nov. 21, 1648, about the time her
parents removed to Yarmouth; Benj. 1654, d. inf.; Nath’l Feb. 8, 1656;
Gershom March 5, 1658; William June 8, 1661; Benj. May 29, 1663;
and Elisha. Doct. Nathaniel, b. 1656, m. Anne Thornton, dr. of Rev.
Thos. who received from this dr., in his old age, the most soothing care.
Doct. H. was in the Indian war, and fought bravely. He kept tavern
some time, and practised medicine; then went to Hing., and, finally, it is
said, to Delaware. No issue. It was of him that Rd. Henchman wrote to
Dr. Increase Mather from “Yarmouth, Feb., 1686,” saying, “There is in
this town one Mr. Nath’l Hall, a man descended from eminently religious
parents, who were very happy in all their children, being nine sons, men
whom this Nath’l is reckoned to excel, who in the late wars received a
wound, — the bullet remaining in his body, — that has taken away in great
measure the use of one of his arms, for which he hath been otherwise little
considered than to have a license to keep an ordinary in this town.” Mr.
H. says he may make a living by it, but the employment is not pleasant to
him or wife, — she “ a dr. of Rev. Mr. Thornton, singularly pious.” He
has skill in surgery. His bro. Thornton wishes him to settle in Boston in
practice of the skill attained by his misfortune, etc.
4	Mr. Baker came over in the Planter, 1635, at the age of 24, from Gt.204	HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1697, it was ordered that a contribution be taken for, and
sent to Mr. Thornton. The town petitioned the court “to
license but one ordinary in town;” granted leave to John
Thacher Jr., Thomas Sturgis, and Wm. Hedge “to set up a
wind-mill on the commons,” and to have one acre for its site,
the mill “ not to be rated; ” ordered “ that the Quakers be rated
for the support of the ministry, but that the tax be made so
much larger, — that Mr. Cotton may have his full salary,” it be-
ing, doubtless, intended not to employ that portion assessed on
the Friends; and Maj. Thacher and Zach. Paddock were ap-
pointed “to join with the selectmen to run the line between
this town and ‘ the purchasers ’ of the town of Harwich.”
In 1698, it was voted “ that £10 be added to Mr. Cotton’s
salary,” making it £70. The town being presented for non-com-
pliance with the law requiring each town to have good and
sufficient accommodation for the impounding of stray cattle,
provided for “ the erecting of a town pound to be set upon the
knoll between Jonathan White’s and Joseph Taylor’s lands.”
Ordered that no one “ shall give or cut, to sell directly or
indirectly, any sort of fencing-stuffj timber or wood, whether
cedar, pine or oak, from the commons.” A similar order was
made in relation to taking hay from the flats, etc., the fine im-
posed in either case being £1 for every such act. The bounds
between this town and “ the purchasers ” at Harwich were re-
newed : “ Beginning at the bound tree at Bound Brook, by the
St. Albans, Hertfordshire. By his m. with Isabel Twining, dr. of Wm.,
1641, he had Nathaniel March 27, 1742, about which time he settled
in Yarmouth; John b. in Yarmouth; SamT May 1, 1648; DanT Sept. 2,
1650; and others, as appears by his will, March 4, 1693, were William,
Thomas, Elisa., who m. John Chase; and Hannah, who m. Pierce. Na-
thaniel and his w. both d. 1691. Their issue: SamT Oct. 29, 1670;
NathT Jan. 27, 1672; and prob. Silas. John had by his w., Alice, viz.:
John May 31, 1572; Bethia 1673; Sarah 1677; Jona., Isaac, Mary, and
Elisa. Daniel, b. 1650, m. Elisa.	Chase, dr.	of Wm. 2d.,	and had	DanT
1675 ; SamT 1676 ; Elisa. 1696;	Thankful	1698; and	Tabitha	1700.
William, s. of Francis, had by Mercy, his w., Mercy Jan. 6, 1692; Wm.
Jan. 8, 1694; Dorcas Nov. 15, 1696; Experience Jan. 8, 1698; Judah
March 2, 1701; Elisa. Feb. 11, 1703 ; Josiah Dec. 16, 1704; Joanna
Feb. 8, 1707; and Patience Feb.	27, 1709.	The father	d. 1727.	The
mother d. 1753, a wid. Thomas,	youngest	s. of Francis,	had by his w.,
Bathsheba, Mary April 7, 1701; and Thos. March 4, 1703. Samuel,
s. of NathT, m. Elisa. Berry, J uly 30, 1702, and had 3 s. and 5 drs. The
eldest son was Judah Aug 9, 1705, who m. Mercy Burgess, Feb. 15,
1728-9, and had 3 s. and 5 drs., the eldest son of whom, Timothy, April
21, 1732, by w., Kezia, had 6 sons and 3 drs., and was grandfather of the
present Capt. Timothy Baker.
4ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
205
road where there is a great stone, and thence south half a point,
or a little less eastward to the South Sea.” Mr. Thomas Sturgis,
Sergt. Ryder, Mr. John Howes, and Mr. Jeremiah Howes, being
each, in turn, elected to represent the town in General Court,
and severally refusing to serve, and repeated meetings being
thinly attended, the town voted a fine of Is. to be hereafter
imposed on every legal voter who shall fail to attend. The only
remedy for the primordial evil was to make the pay of legisla-
tors remunerative. Lt. Silas Sears died, Jan. 13, aged 60.1
In 1699, nothing of sufficient interest occurs worthy of men-
tion, relating to town affairs. A large committee were on “ the
lookout ” for a schoolmaster; and an inducement to the trapping
of wolves was offered. “ Thos. Burge petitioned for land near
his house; ” and Mr. John Wing died.2
In 1700, died in Boston the aged Mr. Thobnton, for-
merly pastor of the church in this town.3 Mr. John
1	Mr. Silas Sears, holding a military office, is generally mentioned in
the records as “ Lt. Sears.” He was a prominent citizen, selectman, and
deputy. His children were Silas; Thomas 1664; Richard, who m. Bar-
sheba Harlow, 1696; Hannah 1672, who m. Thos. Snow, of E.; Joseph;
Josiah; Elisa., who m. Jno. Cook; and Dority.
2	Mr. John Wing, son of John, of Sandwich, who is supposed to be the
ancestor of all the families of the name on the Cape, as also of others
widely dispersed, had sons and daughters: “Ephraim May 30, 1645, who
d. 1649; Joseph Sept. 2, 1650; Ananias; Susannah, who m. Parslow;
Oseah, who m. Turner; and" John, who was m., and d. 1683, leaving one
child. Besides these is mentioned, “ A son of John Wing was drowned in
the snow, Dec. 11, 1648.” It would seem that the wife was Miriam.
She may have been 2d wife.
8 Judge Sewall, of the Supreme Court of the Province, furnishes, in his
diary, an interesting scene m the closing of the venerable man’s life, the
Judge having personally administered to his aged friend in the last hours of
his pilgrimage. And, as the journal affords so graphic a view of the pious
simplicity of ancient times, we will give a few extracts in his own words:
“Third day, Aug. 16, 1695. We had a fast in our new chamber. Mr.
Willard begins with prayer, and preaches from 2 Chron. xxxiv. 27, ‘Be-
cause thine heart was tender, and thou didst humble thyself before God, etc/
Mr. Allen prayed. P. M. Mr. Bailey begins with prayer, and preaches
from Luke i. 50, ‘And his mercy is on them that fear him, from generation
to generation;’ and concludes with prayer. Sung the xxvii. Ps. 7 and 10
v. I set Winsor tune, and burst so into tears that I could hardly continue
singing. Mr. Thornton was here, but went away when Mr. Allen was at
prayer. Mr. Cook and Mr. Addington were here. Mr. Sargent was di-
verted. I appointed this day to ask God’s blessing after the death of my
dear mother ; and in particular to bless Samuel with a master and calling,
and to bless us in our new house. The Lord pardon and do for us beyond
our hopes.” Mr. Thornton’s age and infirmities were doubtless the cause
of his leaving before the exercises were concluded. Three of the gentle-
men present, Rev. Messrs. James Allen, John Bailey, and Thos. Thornton,206
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Clark was the schoolmaster this year, and besides his
salary, provision was made for keeping his horse, — the
arrangement of " carrying the school ” from neighbor-
hood to neighborhood at intervals, making the distance
often far from his home. Provision was also made for
the hire of rooms for the school. The honor of a seat
in "the Great and General Court” of the Province
seems not to have been greatly coveted by our fathers;
for, after repeated elections of representatives this year,
and as often refusals to serve, the town was under the
necessity of obviating the chief objection to the exer-
cise of the proffered vicarious power. An addition
of 12d. per day to the legal pay relieved the office of
further contempt.
In 1701, Mr. John Miller Sr. being the representative, it was
voted that 3s. 6d. per day be granted him, and also allowance of
two extra days for travel in consideration of his age and the
greatness of the journey.” Mr. John Clark was the school-mas-
ter. “ Maj. Thacher, Capt. John Hawes, Mr. Jeremiah Howes,
Mr. John Miller, and Mr. Thos. Folland, were appointed a com-
mittee to make out a list of all such persons as are rightful pro-
prietors of the commons.” Capt. John Hawes died Nov. 11.
In 1702, the wind-mill was repaired, and a gratuity of £6 al-
lowed to the owner, he agreeing to grind at two qts. toll, per bu.
Mr. Cotton “accepted of £40 in money, of the product of the
whale fishes that came to this town the last year, — the town to
have the balance.” Dea. Josiah Thacher died May 12.1
were of the number ejected by the Act of Conformity, 1662; Mr. Willard
was pastor of the Old South; Mr. Addington was Secretary of the Prov-
ince ; and Mr. Peter Sargent was Counsellor. At last, several years after,
Judge Sewall was called to visit the good old man in his last hours: “ Feb.
14, 1699-1700,1 visit Mr. Thomas Thornton in the afternoon between 3
and 4. Hoped he should die next night. I spoke to him what I could;
helped him up while he drank something comfortable. At three past mid-
night he altered much.” “ Feb. 15, 3 P. M. Mr. Thomas Thornton dies
very quietly, which Mr. Gee acquaints me with. Is very near 93 years
old.” Mr. Pemberton also notes the event in his journal, as follows : “ Feb.
1700. Be it remembered that on the 14 (15th) of the month, died in Bos-
ton, the aged and reverend Mr. Thomas Thornton, formerly minister of
Yarmouth; but- by reason of age incapable of that service.”
1 See Yol. I. 142, and 622 Dea. Thacher, b. 1667, m. Mary Hedge,
and had Anthoiy; Rebecca, who m. John Paddock, 1716 ; Mary, who m.ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
207
In 1703 Messrs. John Thacher, Jeremiah Howes, Sam’l Stur-
gis, Joseph Hall, and Peter Thacher, were chosen to “seat per-
sons in the meeting-house.” An order was passed regulating the
keeping of sheep. Mr. Richard Taylor died Aug. I.1
In 1704 we have evidence of the failing health of
Rev. Mr. Cotton, in the fact that Oct. 20, Mr. Jere-
miah Howes and Sergt. Elisha Hall were appointed a
committee “ to go to Cushnet, to Mr. Gardner, a min-
ister now there, engage him to come to this town to
preach, we being destitute.” This committee, with
Capt Samuel Howes and Peter Thacher, were re-
quested “to wait on Mr. Cotton, and acquaint him
with these proceedings.” Mr. Cotton approved. The
town then ordered that the committee, “if the said
Scotch minister cannot be obtained, apply to Mr. Jo-
siah Cotton to come for the winter.”
Mr. William Nickerson died this year;2 also Mr. Samuel
Berry, son of Richard, Feb. 21.3 Of the soldiers detached from
the Cape this year, for the public service, and reported to Col.
March, was “Ebenr. Hallett, of Yarmouth, son of Jonathan, un-
der age.”
Joshua Sears, 1719; Elisha, who m. Phebe Lothrop; and Josiah, who m.
Burne.
1	Mr. Richard Taylor, called Farmer Rock, to distinguish him from
another of the same name, m., prob., Ruth Burges, and had Rutb July 29,
1647, d. inf.; Anne 1648; Ruth 1650; Rd. Jan. 9, 1652, who served in
the Indian war, 1675 ; Mehitable 1654; Iveziah 1656; Joshua May 9,
1659; Hannah 1061; Elisha Feb. 10, 1664; and Mary 1667.
2	The Admiralty Rec. of Bond, show u the examination of William Nick-
erson, of Norwich, in Norfolk, Eng., weaver, aged 33, and Anne, uxor, aged
28, with 4 children, desirous to go to Boston, N. Eng., to inhabit, April 8,
1637.” It is said, this William, the progenitor, went first to Watertown
with his father-in-law, Nicholas Busby. He was, as we have seen, early in
Yarmouth. His children were Nicholas, Robert, Elizabeth who m. Rt. El-
dred, Oct. 31, 1639, and Anne who m. Tristram Hedges, all brought with
him from Eng.; also Wm. Jr., bap. June 1, 1646; Joseph Dec. 1647;
Samuel; John; and a dr., who m. Nath’l Coveil. The above William,
who d. 1703, is supposed to be the s. of Nicholas, and grandson of the
patriarch, William. He m. Mary Snow, of E., Jan. 22, 1690-1, and had
Mercy March 17, 1691-2; Nicholas March 19, 1693-4; William; Ebenr.
June 13, 1697; Jane 1699; Mary 1701; and Thankful 1705, who m. Benj.
Bangs, 1737.
3	Mr. Berry, by his w. Elisa. Bell, dr. of John, had a dr. Jan. 19, 1682,
d. inf.; Elisa., Dec. 21,1684; Patience June 22, 1687; John July 9, 1689;
Samuel Nov. 1691; and Desire June 29, 1694.208
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1705, April 26, Mr. Cotton resigned the pasto-
rate, “ on account,” as Rev. Mr. Alden has said, “ of
weakness of body and mind.”1 May 8, application
was made to Mr. Carnet. Mr. John Clarke died Aug.
16;2 and Mr. Jeremiah Jones, Nov. 4.3
In 1706, Feb. 11, Rev. Mr. Cotton, who had been
first the assistant of Mr. Thornton, and then his suc-
cessor, died, aged 45. The funeral charges were paid
by the town.4 * A call was extended to Mr. Carnet,
March 25. Mr. Jeremiah Howes died Jan. 5;s and
John Casley, Jr., died Jan. 6.6 * 8
In 1707, Aug. 10, an invitation to settle here in the
ministry was extended to Mr. Daniel Greenleaf. A
dwelling-house, etc., was provided; but for some cause
his acceptance was long deferred.
The arrangement for the school this year was, “ to be kept the
1st half year in some convenient house between Mr. Jona. Ilal-
lett’s and White’s Brook; the next half, in Nobscussett ” The
amount raised this year for town and county charges was £130.
In 1708, in May, the call was renewed to Mr. Green-
leaf ; and, June 30, Col. Thacher and Mr. John Hal-
lett were “ appointed a committee to see that suitable
1	Mr. Josiah Cotton supplied a part of the previous winter, for which £6
was voted. Mr. Gardner came the last of January, and, March 5, was in-
vited to preach a year on trial. He deferring his answer, a committee
went, May 2, to Falmouth to get Mr. Carnet to come and preach “ until
Mr. G. is heard from.”
2	Mr. Clarke was the schoolmaster.
8 Mr. Jeremiah Jones was s. of Teage. He m., prob. 2d w., Elisa.
Hall, April 27, 1699. His children were John, Elisa., Sarah, Hannah, and
Rebecca.
4 Rev. John Cotton was b. in Plymouth, 1661, and grad. H. C., 1681.
He had sons who d. inf., and daughters who married. His widow survived
him but a short time. “Mrs. Sarah Cotton d. June 17, 1706, after giving
birth to a son June 15.”
6 Jeremiah Howes, Esq., was a man of prominence and large influ-
ence. He was son of the first Thomas, and m. Sarah Prence, dr. of Gov.
P., 1650, who d. March 3, 1703-4. He was deputy 10 years, representa-
tive after the union 2 years, and selectman 20 years.
8 Mr. Casley was s. of John, of Be., by whose wives, Alice and Sarah,
were John, Benj., and Sarah, who m. Elisha Smith, April 20,1719.ANNALS OP YARMOUTH.
209
entertainment be made for the ministers and messen-
gers from the churches about to assemble for the ordi-
nation of Mr. G.” Sept. 25, a division was made, with '
Mr. Roland Cotton’s assistance, of “the parsonage
land and meadow in partnership between this town
and the heirs of the late Mr. John Cotton.” Mr. Paul
Sears died this year.1
In 1709, it was, in town meeting “ agreed that Mr. Greenleafs
first year began Oct. 1,1707.” May 13, a grant was made to Lt.
Howes, .Tames Sturgis, Joseph Howes, and Peter Thacher, “of a
seat in the meeting-house next before the seat formerly occupied
by Mr. Miller’s family; the said persons to inclose it with said
Miller’s seat for their wives to sit in, — they engaging to fill the
same as full as may be convenient.”
In 1710, the principle on which divisions are to be
made was recognized as, 1st, on estates, one-half; 2d,
on tenements, one-third ; and 3d, on males of 21 years
and over, born in. Yarmouth prior to 1661, or whose
ancestors assisted in the settlement of the town; and,
May 9, a committee was appointed to report under
this rule. Mr. Nathaniel Bassett died Jan. 16, aged
82;2 and Dea. John Hall died Oci 24.3 * * * * 8
1Mr. Paul Sears, b. 1637, inherited the paternal estate. He adopted
the orphan sons of his bro. Kny vet, and in his will mentions them as his own.
He m. Deborah Willard, and had sons and drs. The sons were Samuel,
Paul, and John. He left a large estate. His bequests to his adopted sons
were to enable them u to purchase Monomoy,” now Chatham.
2 See Yol. I. 333-5. Mr. Bassett was son of Mr. William, of Ply-
mouth 1624, then of Dux., and finally of Bridg. who d. 1647. This son
set. first in Marshfield, then in Yarmouth,— residing near the first meeting-
house. His 1st w. was dr. of John Joyce, and the 2d was Hannah-----------;
his children were Mary, who m. Thos. Mulford, of Truro; Samuel; Han-
nah, who m. Covel; Nath’l, who removed to Windham, Ct.; Joseph; Ruth;
Sarah, who m. Nickerson; Nathan; William; and prob. Dorcas, who died
June 9, 1707, aged 31. William, son of Nath’1, m. Martha Godfrey, Feb.
23, 1710, and 2d, Sarah Jenkins, Jan. 30, 1722-3; and had Isaac July 17,
1711; Moses Nov. 4, 1713; Fear April 11, 1716, who m. Joseph Rogers,
of H.; William; Samuel Aug. 1, 1724; Experience May 5, 1727; Mary
May 18, 1729; and Nath’l Sept. 4, 1732. The parents were dism. from
the Yarmouth church to that in Be., 1727, where the last four children
were born.
8Dea. Hall, born 1645, m. Priscilla Bearse, dr. Austin, and had John;
vol. ii.	27210
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COCNTY.
In 1711, Mr. Jaquesh was engaged as school-master, “ to keep
an English school to teach children to read, write, and cypher;
also a grammar school, to teach Latin, provided he may be ob-
tained at the same price.” Mr. John Milleb died June 9, aged
79 ;l also Mr. John Whelden, Nov. 20. In 1712, Mr. Jaquesh,
school-master, was allowed £24 salary, and 5s. per week addi-
tional for board. A bounty of £5 was offered for wolves. In
1713, May 8, Col. John Thacber died, aged 75;2 also Mr. Thos.
Batteb, June 22.
In 1714 occurred the same difficulty as in former
years in finding men to accept of the office of repre-
sentative to the General Court.
In 1715, an addition of £10 was made to Mr.
Greenleaf’s salary. The school-master’s salary was
£26, and the like sum provided for board. Mr. John
Crowell died this year.3
In 1716, the question of increased church-accommo-
dation was paramount. Some advocated the building
of a meeting-house in the easterly part of the town,
and a division of the town into precincts. The subject
was finally referred to Capt. Thompson of Middleboro’,
Ensign John Bacon of Barnstable, and Mr. Chilings-
worth Foster of Harwich; and February 21, a commit-
tee was app. consisting of Sam’l Sturgis, Esq. Capt.
John Paddock, Ens. Elisha Hall, Dea. Joseph Hall, Mr.
John Hallett, and Mr. Josiah Miller, “to attend the gen-
Joseph, Sept. 29, 1663; a dr. 1668, d.; Priscilla, 1671; Esther, 1672;
Mary, 1674; Martha, 1676; and Nath’l, Sept. 15, 1678.
1Mr. John Miller, b. 1632, was s. of Rev. John. He m. Margaret
Winslow, dr. Josiah, Dec. 24, 1659, and had Lydia May 18, 1661, who m.
Jacob Cook, Dec. 29, 1681; Rebecca Nov. 7, 1663, who m. Thos. Clark,
Feb. 15, 1652; Hannah April 19, 1666, who m. Joseph Hall, Feb. 12,
1690; Margaret April 19, 1668, d. inf.; Mehitable May 14, 1670; John
Feb. 20, 1673, d. inf..; Margaret March 2, 1675; Susannah July 26,
1677; Josiah Oct. 27, 1679 ; and John Oct. 16, 1681. He was often dep-
uty, and filled various town offices.
2 See Vol. I. 622.
8 Mr. John Crowell, s. of Thos., resided at Bass Ponds. His children
were, Thos. May 1, 1695; Sarah 1693; John Oct. 21, 1695; Jeremiah
Jan. 31, 1698; Thankful Nov. 9, 1700, who m. Wm. EJdridge, 1709;
Joshua Feb. 25, 1703 ; Hannah 1705; and Ephraim March 3, 1711.ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
211
tlemen expected here to hear and determine the
matter about our settling another meeting-house,—
whether this town shall have two meeting-houses or
one, and where settled.” March 5, it was “ agreed that
the decision of the three referees shall be binding
and final.” The decision was to build but one, that to
be located near the old edifice; but that, after ten
years, the inhabitants of the eastern part of the town
shall be at liberty to draw off, become a separate pre-
cinct, and shall receive assistance from the town in
the erection of a meeting-house.
Stocks were ordered “ to be set in the most convenient place
for public uses.” The representative of the town in the Provin-
cial Assembly, was “ aUowed 18d. per day above the law, and
three days to go and two to return.”
In 1717, a building-committee having been appointed, last
October, the people now, May 13, assembled to raise the means.
An appropriation of £200 was made “to carry on the work,—
the Quakers to be exempted from charge.” November 14, it was
“ voted that seats be made in the new meeting-house as may be
needful; and the old building sold.” November 26, it was “vo-
ted that such of our inhabitants as are professed Quakers be
freed from paying to the minister’s rate;” and that Capt. Howes,
Mr. Elisha Hedge, Mr. John Hallett, Dea. Hall, Mr. Zach.
Paddock, Mr. Elisha Hall, and Mr. John Hedge be a committee
“to place or seat the people in our new meeting-house as they,
or a major part of them, shall see cause,— all the circumstances
of the people being considered.” It was further voted “that they
who are to have pews, build them at their own charge, under
the direction of the building-committee; the leases to be made
by said committee.” Mr. Jonathan Hallett died this year,
January 14.
In 1718, March 4, the town voted to ‘give the old meeting-
house to the widow Rebecca Sturgis in consideration of the loss
of her house by fire, to be used toward the erection of another
dwelling; only reserving the materials of which the pews were
built, for the owners thereof.’ Mr. Zachariah Paddock Jr.
died April 8.
In 1719, October 14, the minister’s salary was increased £20,212
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY,
“ in consequence of the dearness of provisions, eto.* The town
being presented for not having a school-master, Mr. Peter
Thacher was appointed agent to answer for the town at the
next court. Jonathan Howes died January 10, killed by a
whale. Capt. John Paddock died February 18.
In 1720, the sum raised for town expenses was £120.
In 1721, an order was passed allowing “swine enlargement.”
the favored porklings and porkers might go at large, only they
must be “ ringed and yoked.”
The East Precinct of Yarmouth was this year con-
stituted, the provision made in 1716 being anticipated.
Capt. Josiah Crocker died October 10, aged 37.1
In 1722, the last day of February the preliminary
meeting for the organization of Nobscusset and neigh-
borhood as a distinct parish, known as the Eastern
Precinct, was held ; and March 7, Judah Paddock act-
ing as clerk of the parish, arrangements were made
for building a meeting-house.
In 1723, Rev. Mr. Greenleaf was invited to be minis-
ter of the new parish, March 22;2 and April 15, Mr.
Deming of Medway was proposed. A council of ad-
vice was called, and, September 25, reported approving
of invitation now extended to Mr. Dexter.3 Septem-
1	The records say, he d. at Nauset; others say, at Anapolis Rial. Capt.
Crocker was s. of Josiah of Be., and b. 1684. He m. Desire Thacher, d.
of Col. John, Ap. 10, 1718. Issue: Josiah Oct. 30, 1719, who grad. H. C.
1738, and was ordained minister of Taunton May 19, 1742, where he died
Aug. 28,17 74; and Desire Dec. 17,1721. Rev. Josiah, who was the friend
of Whitefield and in some traits resembled him, m. Rebecca Allyn, d. James
of Be., July 28, 1742, who died Sept. 28, 1759; and 2d, Hannah Cobb, d.
Col. Thomas, of Attleboro’. From him are descended the Crockers of
Taunton.
2	This call was, perhaps, intended in courtesy, as a compliment to their
late pastor. In any event it is honorable to both parties, and is a pleasing
exhibition of the estimation in which Mr. G. was held by this recent
portion of his flock.
8 According to Rev. Samuel Dexter’s diary, it appears that he was here
soon after the organization of the parish. It shows that “April 23, 1722,”
he “ set out on a visit to Yarmouth; 24th, stopped with Dea. Hall. Visited
Nobscusset and preached there, 28th. Returned to Yarmouth town, 29th,
and visited Mr. Greenleaf. Visited Sirsuit, May 1.” “Again at Yarmouth,
July 12; and also visited Mr. Lord at Chatham, and Mr. Stone at Har-
wich.” The report of council of advice, above mentioned, is signed byANNALS OP YARMOUTH.
223
ber 26, the night before, “ two vessels came ashore,—
a brig at Nobscusset, and a ship at Harwich.” Capt
Samuel Howes died this year, January 10.
In 1724, Mr. Barnabas Taylor was proposed as min-
ister for the Eastern Precinct, and visited the parish.
Mr. Greenleaf and his parish were now in some trouble,
probably growing out of the recent change of parish
relations. Mr. Greenleaf entered a complaint at court,
and the town appointed a committee to answer. The
subject of misunderstanding was salary.
In 1725, June 24, Mr. Josiah Dennis received a call
to become the minister of the East Precinct. The
complaint of Mr. Greenleaf, and u the town’s grievan-
ces,” were, August 2, submitted to a council. Mr.
Joseph Crosby died May 30.1
In 1726, Mr. Greenleafs complaint was not withdrawn. April
21, the town voted to “give him £20, in addition to the £100
ready for him, in full discharge of his complaint now before the
Superior court, or else refer the whole subject to three or more
of the late council.” Subsequently the town vote to “give £130,
he to acquit the town, to October 1723, from any further de-
mands for his services.” “August 6, Mr. Ebenezer Taylor, the
father of Daniel, Esq., was remarkably preserved from death.”
He had descended a well; a stone gave way, and immediately
the stones and earth closed over and under him. His condi-
tion seemed, both to himself and neighbors, to be hopeless, but
he was at last extricated.2
Rev. Messrs. Nathaniel Stone, Joseph Lord, and Daniel Greenleaf, and is:
“ Whereas the East Precinct of Yarmouth have applied themselves to us
for our advice with relation to the settlement of Mr. Samuel Dexter, We,
the subscribers, do hereby declare that for what we have heard or known
concerning him, we see no reason to withhold our concurrence with that
they have manifested to be their desire, viz., that Mr. Dexter may be set-
tled in the ministry among them; but, on the contrary, hoping that he may
be made a blessing to them, we do approve of their calling him to the min-
istry of the Gospel among them; and advise, if he shall accept their call, to
settle him in the ministry among them.” Mr. Dexter became the minister
of Dedham, and was g. f. of Hon. Samuel Dexter.
1 Mr. Crosby, b. 1GG9, was 3d s. of Rev. Thomas, of E. He m. Me-
hitable Miller Feb. 16, 1692-3 and settled in this town. His son Theophi-
lus, b. Dec. 31, 1G93, m. Thankful Winslow, of H., Feb. 14, 1722-3.
3 This was at the Indian Ilokanom, the N. eastern part of the town.214
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1727, the Rev. Daniel Greenleaf was released
from his pastoral relations to this town, after a minis-
try of twenty years. Mr. G. removed from town.1 A
church organization was now effected in the Eastern
Precinct, and Rev. Josiah Dennis was ordained June 22.
The chief details of the progress of this church and
parish will find their appropriate place in the intro
ductory part of the annals of the town of Dennis.
Mr. Zachariah Paddock died May 1, aged 91.
An account of the affair was given by Mr. Weekes, and also, later, by Mr.
Alden, and will be found among the archives of the Historical Society.
1	Mr. Greenleaf, s. of Stephen, of Newbury, was b. 1679, and grad.
H. C. 1699. The dissolution of the pastoral connection has been imputed
to the influence of long-continued, strenuous, and unrelenting opposition on
the part of a prominent parishioner who had become disaffected. Besides
his ecclesiastical functions, Mr. G. performed those of a physician and
apothecary. By his m. with Eliza Cooking, dr. of sheriff G. of Suffolk,
and gr. d. of Maj. Gen. G. of Cambridge, Mr. Greenleaf had a large
family. Shortly before his dismission, his wife and thirteen children re-
moved to Boston, and she there opened an apothecary shop. She was an
energetic and intelligent woman, and frequently prescribed for the sick. Mr.
G. preached only occasionally after removing to Boston. Connecting him-
self with Dr. Coleman's church, he usually took place in the elder's seat. A
portrait of him, by Copley, has been preserved. He is represented as
venerable and aged. For two years be ore his decease he was bed-ridden
in consequence of severe injury bv a fall, and, though greatly suffering,
was remarked as a pattern of patience and meekness. An old friend who
had called to see him in his prostration, sympathizingly said, “ God has laid
his hand heavily upon you; ” but Mr. G. replied, ‘ True,but the Almighty's
arm is underneath me.' In the same happy and submissive state of mind
he continued to the last. He died aged 82.
2	The father of the above Mr. Paddock was Robert, who was of Ply-
mouth 1634, and died 1650. If dates are correct, Zachariah was the
2d son, and b. May 20, 1636. He m. Deborah Sears, d. of Richard, 1659,
and had Ichabod, 1661 ; Zachariah, 1664; Elizabeth, 1665; John, 1668;
Robert, 1670; Joseph, 1774; Nathaniel, 1677; and Judah, 1681. Icha-
bod, b. 1661, is he who, it is said by Macy, was engaged to go to Nan-
tucket to teach the art of catching whales. The statement of Macy is
doubtless strictly correct. For every honor, however, there must be com-
petitors ; and so Mr. Felt of Salem, of later date, prefers a claim that
“ one James Loper" was the first person that undertook catching whales at
the Island, and says he had, in 1688 been in the business 22 years ! Upon
this, Mr. Savage, in his usually authoritative manner, relates: “ Ichabod
Paddock is the subject of a trifling tradition that he was invited in 1690
from Cape Cod to Nantucket to teach the art of killing whales.” We
have no interest in challenging for Mr. Paddock more than is right; and the
reader will judge whether Mr. Macy of Nantucket is justly chargeable
with originating, or, without good foundation, encouraging “ a trifling tra-
dition?' The utterances of caprice, however dogmatic, are never in good
taste.ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
215
In 1728, at the opening of the yea , the controversy with Rev.
Mr. Greenleaf was not settled; he had, the 23d December pre-
vious, made proposals for adjustment; and now, January 12, the
matter was discussed in town-meeting, and an answer returned
to Mr. G. The subject was probably referred; for November 7,
a meeting was held “ to raise money to pay Mr. G. according to
advice of council.”
In 1729, Rev. Thomas Smith became the successor of
Mr. Greenleaf. Town-meetings began to be held oc-
casionally in the East meeting-house. Mr. Josiah Mil-
ler died April 15.1 Mr. John Miller died July 4.1
In 1730, the schools were again “ settled,” and from year to
yeai received due attention ; but, unless we except minor mat-
ters,— the adjustment anew of the boundaries of the town on
eithei side, and like matters, nothing of historical interest is
found on the records for several years. In 1734, the government
loan-fund began to be used for town charges, and, the next year
ensued trouble in the collecting of the bonds; suits being neces-
sary for the recovery of either interest or principal. Mr. Thos.
Crowell died March 21, 1735.
In 1736, Peter Thacher, Esq. died, February 12;2 and Mr.
John Howes, April 30.3
In 1737, the application of towns below, for courts to be held
a part of the time in Eastham, was opposed. Dea. Joseph
Hall died January 29;4 Mr. William Matthews, September
29;5 and Mr. Thomas Howes, November 22.
1 Mr. Josiah Miller, b. 1679, s. of John, was prominent in public af-
fairs; his widow, Mary, d. at Pembroke, Feb. 15, 1772, aged 94. Mr.
John Miller, b. 1681, m. Thankful Howes, Jan. 23, 1707.
a See Vol. I. 372. Peter Thacher, Esq., b. 1665, Justice 1713,
Judge C. Pleas 1720, Chief Just. 1728, and several years of the Council;
m. Thankful Sturgis, and had Thankful Jan. 13, 1693-4, who m. John Hal-
let; Peter, Dec. 11, 1695, d. inf.; Sarah, Feb. 2, 1708, who m. George
Lewis; Temperance, Sept. 16, 1711 ; Peter, Aug. 24, 1712; and Hannah,
Aug. 10, 1715.
3	Mr. John Howes m. Elizabeth Paddock Nov. 28,1689, and, 2d, Mary
Matthews July 8, 1691. Issue: Elizabeth June 1, 1694; John Oct. 30,
1699; Sarah July 18, 1701; and James March 1, 1710-11.
4	Dea. Hall, b. 1663, s. of Dea. John, m. Hannah Miller Feb. 12, 1689
-90, who d. Aug. 23, 1710; and, 2d, Mary Morton, widow of John and dr. /
of Mr. Faunee; and had Hannah Feb. 20, 1691 ; Priscilla 1693; Mar-
gery 1695; Joseph Aug. 6, 1697, who was g. f. of Capt. Ezekiel; Daniel
July 18, 1699; Josiah Aug. 12, 1701; David Aug. 6, 1704; Mary March
30, 1712; Peter May 19, 1715 ; John Jan. 30, 1717; and Bashua, July 5,
1719.
6 Mr. William Matthews m. Hannah Howes Dec. 15,1698, and had216
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1738, Capt. John Sears died, April 9;1 Mr. Edward
Sturgis, June 1 ;2 and Mr. Joshua Howes, November 28. Mr.
Thomas Sturgis died August 3, the next year;8 and Dea.
Shubael Taylor, aged 51, September 29. Mr. Paul Sears
died February 17, 1740;4 Shubael Baxter, Esq., April 12,
1741; and, the same year, November 4, Mr. Benjamin Mat-
thews.5 Mr. Thomas Bray died November 25, 1742 ; Mr. Jo-
seph Howes, December 24, 1743, “in a good old age;” Mr.
Ebenezer Hall, December 20, 1744; Mr. John Nickerson,
July 23, and Mr. Nathaniel Howes, July 26, 1745; also, the
same year, Mr. John Berry died, aged 93.6 Many persons from
the Cape were, this year, in the expedition against Cape Bre-
ton.7 November 6, 1745, a request signed by Joseph Thacher,
Nathaniel Howes, Edward Sturgis, Peter Thacher, Jeremiah
Joyce, Samuel Matthews, Joseph Ryder, James Taylor, and
John Matthews, was addressed to Mr. Judah Thacher, clerk of
the proprietors of Yarmouth, for a meeting of the proprietors to
Elizabeth February, 1699; and Sarah May, 1702. His wife Hannah died
Jan. 1, 1704-5.
1	Capt. John Sears, b. 1677, s. of Paul, d., the family memorial says,
“ 1739.” He was a military officer. His children were John, Elisha, Wil-
lard, and Nathaniel.
2	Mr. Edward Sturgis, b. 1684, s. of Mr. Thomas, m. Martha Rus-
sell, Dec. 26, 1717, and had Martha Nov. 19, 1718; Elizabeth, June 12,
1721, d. inf.; Thomas, July 22, 1722; Elizabeth Aug. 26, 1725, who m.
Thomas Allyn; Rebecca Oct. 9, 1727 ; Jonathan June 17, 1730; Abigail
July 22, 1732, and Hannah Aug. 24, 1735*
8 Mr. Thomas Sturgis, doubtless the son of Mr. Edward, the progeni-
tor, who is said to have been a branch of a distinguished family in England,
had, by his w. Abigail, drs. b. in 1681 and 1683, who d. inf; Edward Dec.
10, 1684; Thomas April 4, 1686; Hannah Sept. 18, 1687; John Dec. 2,
1690; Elisa. Dec. 25, 1692; [the record says, “ The said Thomas and
Abigail have buried four children in their infancy, two of them were twins,
before the date of this, March 3, 1693-4. They had] Abigail, b. Oct. 28,
1694; a s. 1696, d. inf.; Thankful March 18, 1697; Sarah Jan. 14, 1699-
1700, and a son, 1702, d. inf.
4 Mr. Paul Sears, s. of Paul, lived on Quivet Neck. He in. Mercy
Freeman, dr. Thomas of E. 1693, and had Ebenezer 1694; Paul 1695-6;
Elizabeth 1697, who m. Crosby; Thomas 1699; Rebecca 1701, who m.
Joshua Hall; Mercy 1702, who m. Joseph Blackmore; Deborah 1705,
who m. Thomas Howes; Anne 1706, who m. Ebenezer Bangs; Joshua
1708; Edmund 1711; Hannah 1714, who m. Thomas Howes; and Daniel.
6 Mr. Benjamin Matthews, by his wife Hannah Ryder, whom he m.
Jan. 16, 1698-9, had James Oct. 15, 1700 ; Samuel June 7, 1702;
Thankful March 31, 1704; and Mary 1707.
6	Mr. Berry, a soldier in Philip's War, 1675, was s. of Richard. His
will names children: Judah; Ebenezer; Elizabeth, who m. Samuel Baker
July 30, 1702; Experience, who m. Jonathan Bangs; and Mary, who m.
Isaac Chase, July 23, 1706.
7	See Vol. I. 380.ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
217
be called “ to see if Joseph Ryder and others shi 11 have liberty
to erect a grist-mill at a place called the weir.”
In 1746, Mr. Jeremiah Crowell died, January 80 ;* and Mr.
Thomas Thacher, December 20, at Annapolis.
In 1748, the paper currency having become greatly
depressed, £350, old tenor, was voted for town charges;
and the following year, the duties of constable had be-
come so disagreeable that it was exceedingly difficult
to find any person who would serve.
In 1750, a committee was appointed “ to enforce the deer act;”
another committee “to guard against trespass on Nobscussett
beach.” Mr. Joseph Bassett died Jan. 6;2 and Mr. Jacob
Taylor, Aug. 12.
In 1751, the inhabitants of the South Side petitioned for a
public road to be laid out for their convenience. Mr. Andrew
Hallett died April 26; and Mr. Samuel Bearse, Oct. 30,
aged 30.
In 1752, it is a relief to the paucity of historical incidents and
the dull monotony of annual elections, to find that a bounty of
Id. per head was offered for blackbirds, and that Samuel Bur-
gess and Josiah Smith were appointed “to keep the young peo-
ple in order on Sabbath days.” Dea. Joseph Hawes died Nov.
5. The next year Dea. Joseph Ryder died, Feb. 24; and Mr.
Prince Hawes, Oct. 2.
In 1754, Rev. Thomas Smith was, at his request, dis-
missed from his pastoral charge, “ leaving for lack of
competent support.”3
1	Mr. Jeremiah Crowell, b. 1670, s. of John, m. Hannah Ryder,
Nov. 29,1705, and had Mary, 1706; Hannah, 1708; Aaron, Aug. 12,1711;
Betty, 1714, and Jeremiah, Oct. 12, 1721.
2	Mr. Joseph Bassett was s. of Nathaniel. He m. Susanna Howes,
Feb. 27, 1706-7, and 2d, Thankful Hallett, De*;. 3, 1719, who d. 1735.
Issue: Sarah 1707; Joseph June 15, 1709; Dan*l Nov. 17, 1710; Josh.
Sept. 13, 1712; Susanna Jan. 22, 1714-15, who m. John Hawes, Jan. 2,
1732; Samuel Oct. 23, 1716, who d. 1740; John Dec. 14, 1720; Ebn’r
July 9, 1722, d. inf.; Thankful 1724, who m. Bramhall, of Iling.; and Na-
than Oct. 17, 1725. Joshua, b., 1712, m. Thankful Bramhall, of Hing.,
1738, and had issue: Nathan, b. 1725, m. Hannah Hallett, 1721, and 2d,
Desire Crowell, widow of Prince; and by 1st m. had John Nov. 4, 1753;
Thankful 1756, d. inf.; Joseph Feb. 13, 1759; Ebeifr May 2-1, 1761;
Thankful Sept. 19, 1763, who m. Eben Taylor; Francis January 14,
1766; and Joshua Aug. 7, 1768.
8Mr. Smith settled in Pembroke, “where he lived in reputation to a
VOL. II.	28218
HISTORY OF B. UNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1755, the Rev. Grind all Rawson succeeded Mr.
Smith, and was installed Dec. 10.1
In 1757, the town ordered “the sale, to the highest
bidder, of the lot where the Indian meeting-house
stood.” We find, this year, evidence of the existence
of a Baptist Church, composed of people of this
town and Harwich, viz.: “ Province of Massachusetts
Bay, Oct. 3, 1757. These may certify to whom it
may concern, that the 2d Baptist Church of Christ in
Rehoboth, under the pastoral care of Elder Rd.
Round, do esteem the Baptist Church in Harwich and
Yarmouth under the pastoral care of Elder Richard
Chase, of the Baptist Communion and conscientiously
of our persuasion.” Signed, “ Rich. Round, Hezekiah
Hix, Nathaniel Round, committee in behalf of the
church.”2 Dea. Joseph Crosby died this year, July 3 ;
Mr. Prince Matthews died, Aug. 5. Mr. Thomas Tobey
also died this year, aged 81.3
In 1758, and the following year, was a call “ for men
for the reduction of Canada.” 4
very advanced age,” dying in 1795, aged 93. Loose and conflicting often
are the statements made by writers in regard to this gentleman and Mr.
Smith, of Sandwich. —the full name, with acts and locations of the indi-
vidual, being overlooked.
1	Mr. Rawson was descended from Sec’y Rawson ; was eldest s. of Pel-
atiah, of Milton, and b. July 29,1721; had previously been ordained minis-
ter of Ware, 1751, and dis. 1754. He grad. H. C., 1741, and was prob.
neph. of the minister of the same name in Mendon, much interested in the
religious instruction of Indians.
2	A similar certificate, in lot idem verbis, excepting the descriptive part, is
recorded, from the 1st Bap. Ch. in Rehoboth, under the care of Elder John
Hix, signed by “ John Hix, Ephraim Hix, Amos Bozard.” Also another
from “ the Bap. Ch. in Bridgewater, Middleboro’, and Raynham, under the
pastoral charge of Elder Isaac Backus.” Whilst exhibiting thus the cus-
toms of former days, we may here mention that on the same page we find
also entered by the town-clerk, the following: “ I, Jasher Taylor, Nov. 5,
1757, struck a hump-back on the back, about 2 yards past the fin,—the
iron, with a thick head and short warp, not marked.”
3	It is the family tradition, confirmed by records, that Mr. Trio:f as Tobey
was s. of Mr. Thomas Tobey, of Sandwich, b. Feb. 2, 16 7G, vho settled
here, and prob. m. a dr. of John Crowell.
4	“ March 22, 1759,” the following record is made: “ Mr. Willi im Howes
is the proper miller of the grist-mill in the East Precinct. Recorded byANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
219
In 1760, Rev. Mr. Rawson took his dismission from
the Yarmouth Church, — “in consequence,” as Mr.
Alden has said, “of general disaffection between him
and the people, being advised by a council to ask for
a dissolution of the connexion.” 1
In 1761, the meeting-house of the East Precinct
having been enlarged and repaired, the pews gained
by the enlargement were sold, Aug. 24. Bounties
for foxes, crows, blackbirds, and jays were offered.
In 1762, Rev. Joseph Green Jr. succeeded Mr.
Rawson, and was installed pastor.2
In 1763, the East Precinct was bereft of its excel-
lent pastor, the Rev. Josiah Dennis. He died, August
31, aged 69.3 Col. Joseph Thacher, a highly influen-
tial citizen of this town, died June 17, aged 64.4 Mr.
Josiah Crocker, having preached some time in the
pulpit made vacant by the decease of Mr. Dennis, re-
ceived a call to settle in that parisb, Dec. 7. The
me, Jasper Taylor, town-clerk.” The record was, doubtless, in compliance
with law, for we find a similar entry by Seth Tobey, clerk, in favor of
Enoch Crowell, April 22, 1775, and the practice continued at different
periods.
1E-ev. Mr. R. is represented as 44 a man of strong mind, but very eccen-
tric.” Rev. Timothy Alden Jr. says, “The Rev. Griiulall Rawson has
preserved the following anecdote in the 2d edition of Dr. Gay’s sermon, at
his installation: 4 The Rev. Mr. Stone, of Harwich, a grave gentleman,
attending a funeral at Yarmouth, and being in the burial-place, some years
after the death of Mr. Cotton, inquired for Mr. C.’s grave; but there not
being any one who could show it, he remarked, 44 I think it is with Mr.
Cotton’s grave as it was with Moses’,—that distinguished servant of God,—
4 no man knoweth of his sepulchre to this day.’ ” ’ Mr. Rawson adds, 4 This
was the only one of the first seven ministers whose dust was committed to
the earth in Yarmouth. Whatever they suffered, the worm did* not feed
on them there.’” Mr. Rawson m. Desire Thacher, dr. Col. Joseph, Jan.
26, 1756. They had Ruth Aug. 13, 1757, d. inf.; Jonathan Jan. 24,
1759 ; and Hannah May 25, 1767. He d. in Sutton, 1795.
2Mr. Green, s. of Rev. Joseph Green, of Barnstable, b. 1726, grad. H.
Col. 1746; had been previously settled at Marshfield.
3	Rev. Josiah Dennis was eminently successful in his ministry, and
greatly beloved. See Annals of town of Dennis.
4	Col. Thacher, b. 1699, was s. of Col. John. He was distinguished in
the Cape Breton Expedition, 1745. He m. Ruth Hawes, and 1 ad Desire
1730, who m. Rev. G. Rawson; Ruth 1736, who m. Ezek’l Web I, and, 2d,
Seth Whelden; Joseph 1744, who m. Susanna Whelden; and Ebenezer.220
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE CcCNTY.
parish was, however, soon again on the look-out for a
minister.
In 1764, July 30, a call was extended to Rev. Na-
than Stone, and, Oct. 17, he was inaugurated pastor.1
Hon. John Thacher died this year, March 7, aged
90.2
In 1765, Mr. Isaac Chapman died.3 Although we
have reached, in these annals, the period when the coun-
try is being convulsed by intense political excitement,
we look in vain for any popular demonstration here.
In fact, the record, whilst it shows that the great
questions of the day were not ignored by all, is
unique and so far out of the ordinary course of rec-
ords of town-meetings, that it appears significant. It
1	Rev. Mr. Stone was b. in Southboro’, Oct. 11, 1737, and grad. H. C.
1762. See Annals of Dennis.
2	Hon. John Thacher, b. 1674, s. of Col. John, perhaps lived in Be.
but his de. is recorded in Y. lie was Judge of the Ct. C. P., Register of
Deeds, etc. He m. Desire (Sturgis) Dimoe, a wid. Nov. 10,1698, and had
Abigail 1699 ; Elisa. 1701, who m. Davis; John June 25, 1703; Lot
May 23, 1705; Fear 1707, who m. Nath’l Lewis; Roland Aug. 28, 1710,
who grad. H. C. 1733, and set. in the ministry at Wareham; and prob.
others. He was some time Col. of militia, eminently pious and companion-
able.
8 The Chapmans of the Cape are, doubtless, descended from Ralph
Chapman, whose m. with Lydia Wells, Nov. 23,1642, was “the earliest in
Duxbury.” He came over 1635, aged 20, from Southwalk, in Surry; and
had issue : Mary Oct. 31, 1643, who m. Wm. Troup, of Be., May 14,1666;
Sarah May 15, 1645, who m. Wm. Northcutt, of Y., afterwards of E.;
Isaac Aug. 4, 1647; Lydia Nov. 26, 1649, d. inf.; Ralf June 20, 1653, d.
inf.; and Ralf, who set. in Marshfield, and had John, who lived to be 104 yrs.
old. Isaac, b. 1647, came from Bristol, R. I. as appears by deeds, 1696,
to Be. By his wife* Rebecca Leonard, whom he m. Sept. 2, 1678, dr. of
James, he had Lydia Dec. 15, 1679, who m. John Dillingham, and d. Sept.
4, 1760, aged 80; John May 12, 1681, who settled at Aeushnet, and died
1726 ; Hannah Dec. 26, 1682, who d. aged 7; James Aug. 5, 1685; Ab-
igail July 11, 1687; Hannah April 10, 1690; Isaac December 29, 1692;
Ralph Jan. 19, 1695; and Rebecca June 10, 1697. His will is dated
1728. Isaac, b. 1692, by his wife Elisa, had Isaac April 7, 1721, who m.
Mary Paddock, and set. in State of N. Y.; Mary June 6, 1723 ; Rebecca
Nov. 14, 1726, d. inf.; Samuel Nov. 14, 1727, who d. without issue; Re-
becca June 25, 1730; Ruth April 13, 1733; and Micah July 18, 1735.
Ralph, b. 1695, by wife Elisa, had John Feb. 22, 1728-9; Betty Oct.
15, 1736; and David Nov. 15, 1739. Micaii, b. 1735, by his wife Elisa,
had Elisa. Jan. 19, 1761; Sam’l May 23, 1764; Howes June 16, 1768;
Isaac April 27, 1770; and Mary July 1, 1775.ANNALS' OF YARMOUTH.
221
is simply this: “ Oct. 8, a town-meeting, legally warned
and held at the east meeting-house in Yarmouth, Dea.
Daniel Hall, moderator, did nothing concerning the
Stamp Act.”1 Signed, “ Prince Hawes, town clerk.”
In 1766, the record is again expressive: “Dec. 1,
Voted that our representative be instructed, in the
town’s behalf, to do what he shall think proper in ref-
erence to making compensation to those that have suf-
fered in their estates in the late riotous mobs that
have arisen in Boston, from Aug. 1, 1765, to May 1,
1766.”
In 1767, there were, as we learn by an incidental
passage in a missionary report, six Indian wigwams
yet remaining in the township, and inhabited.
In 1768, the British Parliament, although they had
felt constrained to repeal the Stamp Act, finding it
impossible to enforce it in America, imposed certain
duties, established custom’s-offices for their collection,
and sent over an armed soldiery to intimidate and put
down all opposition. The “ mutiny act ” next fol-
lowed ; and a convention was, therefore, called by an
incensed public, to be held in Faneuil Hall, in Septem-
ber. The action of this town stands on the record
thus: “Sept. 20,” a town-meeting, “nothing done.”
“ Sept. 27, it was put to vote to choose a committee to
go to Boston, but it was thought not proper to send
one.” Dea. Daniel Hall died this year, Oct. 24; and
Nov. 5, the Rev. Joseph Green Jr., the pastor, died,
aged 42.2
In 1769, Dec. 13, the Rev. Timothy Alden became,
1	See the doings of Capt. Isaac Sears, in New York, Yol. I. 407, 419.
2	Rev. Joseph Green, Jr., grad. H. C. 1747, s. of Rev. Joseph Sr. of
Be., m. Hannah Lewis, dr. of Rev. Isaiah, of Wellfleet, and had Isaiah L. who
grad. H. C. 1781, and was Mem. Cong. 1805-9, and 1811-13, and then
collector of the port of Be. Rev. Mr. Green d. in the 7th year of his min-
istry, beloved and greatly lamented.222
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
by ordination, the ninth in the succession of the pas-
torate in the Yarmouth Church.1
In 1770, Jan. 15, Mr. Eli Snow was the school-master. The
subject of “ a work-house for our poor to go into,” was deferred.
Nothing of public interest is recorded for the next three years.
What success, in this town, had attended the measures adopted
by the General Court for ascertaining the strength on the side
of liberty, does not appear by any official record.
The part enacted by inhabitants of this town in the
stirring events of the greater part of 1774, is not sub-
ject of town record.2 That there were “ sons of liber-
ty ” here is patent from other sources. After the bold
stride taken by “ the body of the people,” during the
memorable days of September, its influence is seen
even where apathy had seemed to brood hitherto.
Oct. 11, a town-meeting was held, and “ Capt. Elisha Bassett,
Capt. Solomon Crowell, and Messrs. Joseph Crowell, Moses
Baker, Stephen Hallett, Joseph Griffith, and Micah Chapman,
were chosen a committee of observation and prevention.” 'Nov.
1, another meeting was held, and w Capt. Enoch Hallett, Jona-
than Howes, Seth Tobey, Joseph Griffin, and Isaac Matthews,
were appointed to meet at the court-house, in Barnstable, on the
16th inst.3 Messrs. “ Barnabas Eldridge, Reuben Taylor, Abner
Crowell, Isaac Hallett, Edmund Bray, Isaac Berry, Jas. Howes,
'Mr. Alden was b. 1736, and grad. H. C. 1762; descended from John
Alden, of Pilgrim memory,—the last survivor, it is said, of the signers of
the original compact on board the Mayflower in Cape Cod Harbor; and,
of course, descended also from Priscilla Mullens. We adverted, Vol. I.
189, in illustration of the unsophisticated simplicity of early times, to an
anecdote of John Alden, Miles Standish, and Miss Priscilla. Tradition
had laid the scene at Mattacheese. We intimated that, in our apprehen-
sion, the local reference was apocryphal. Our reasons for this must be
obvious to all familiar with genealogical dates and the order of events, not-
withstanding Mr. Pratt’s theory that “ Capt. S. and Mr. A. were called
here in 1644, as arbiters between the town and Indians, and, on this occa-
sion, the Capt. became acquainted with Miss Mullens.” As William Mul-
lens d. at Plymouth, 1621, and his dr. Priscilla m. John Alden, of Dux-
bury, 1623, and had quite a family before the time specified by Air. P.;
and as Standish, a widower by the loss of his wife, Rose, in 1622, was soon
after blessed with another wife, Rebecca, the tradition reproduced by Mr.
P. fails in the placing of it, — (his only.
2 See Vol. I. 424-429, and 430-452.
3County Congress; see Vol. I. 466, 468.ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
223
Sam’l Eldridge, John Chapman, James Baker, Moses Baker, and
A. Chase, were also appointed to see that no tea be conveyed to
this town.”1
In 1775, Jari. 22, Capt. Elisha Bassett was chosen
“to represent the town at Cambridge, Feb. 1, next”
The constables were ordered “ to collect the Province
money, and keep it until further orders from the
town” It was also “Voted to adhere to the Conti-
nental Congress.” Another meeting was held, March
2; and a committee to see that the recommendations
of the Congress are carried out, was appointed, viz.:
Seth Tobey, Isaac Matthews Jr., Abner Crowell, John
Sears, James Baker, and Daniel Taylor. April 22, it
was voted that the public moneys in the treasury “ be
paid to Henry Gardner” Provision was also made
“ for the purchase of arms, ammunition, etc.,” and “ for
the keeping of a watch.” And, Aug. 1, a “ committee
of safety and correspondence ” was appointed.
In 1776, the com. of cor. consisted of David Thacher,
John Hall, and Seth Tobey. The towns having been
requested to “advise” their representatives whether,
“ if Congress should, for the safety of the colonies, de-
1 The resolves of the Continental Congress, though ostensibly regarded,
were often difficult of enforcement. Tea was a beverage that it seemed
to many hard to forego. The desire for it, and the opportunity which that
desire afforded for exorbitant prices, often induced the smuggling of the
contraband by unprincipled speculators. That this county was not exempt
from suspicion, is apparent from a resolve of General Court, Aug. 21,
1775. It having been represented that some of the inhabitants were dere-
lict, and had in divers instances violated the restrictions imposed, it was
“ Resolved, That Col. Nathaniel Freeman, and Col. Joseph Otis, be de-
sired to make inquiry into this matter; and if, upon examination, they find.
that any person or persons in any part of the town aforesaid, have been
guilty of violating any of the resolves aforesaid, and have acted or are act-
ing in violation of the liberties of this colony: That they cause such person
or persons to be apprehended and secured by those forces that are ap-
pointed to guard the coasts thereabout, and that they be safely guarded
and brought up to this court, to answer for their conduct, on the 1st Tues-
day of the next sitting of this court.” Complaints of due vigilance were
murmured here and there, and always will be in times of national trouble,
or military necessity, by the unpatriotic.; for
“ None e’er felt the halter draw
With good opinion of the law.”224
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
clare their independence, the people will sustain them
in the act,” a meeting was held, June 20, and the
question being put, was carried in the affirmative.
This town, in fact, as the record stands, transcended
the request: “Voted, unanimously, that the inhabit-
ants of the town of Yarmouth do declare a state of
independence of the King of Great Britain, agreeably
to a late resolve of the General Court.”1 David
Thacher, Joshua Gray, Isaac Hallett, and Vm. Thacher
being a corn, on a new Constitution of State Gov’t,
submitted their report, and the meeting “consented
to the revision.” The committee, however, set forth
resolutions for adoption by the meeting, which resolu-
tions, with their preamble, are styled a list of “griev-
ances.” They were, summarily, these:	1. The “ resi-
dence of the Register of Probate is in the extreme
western town in the county,” and, “in consequence,
widows and orphans are put to great expense;” a
more central position is expedient. 2. The organizar
tion of the Militia is objectionable — the field officers
are unpopular, and “some are not willing to serve
under them.” 3. The blending of civil and military
appointments is disapproved; occasion may require
an appeal from military authority to the judicial.
4. “Test acts,” and “documents proposed for signature
as tests of loyalty to the country,” are denounced.
These have “ already caused much difficulty.” 2 The
report was adopted. In July the Western Precinct
furnished five men for the army and raised £70 ster-
ling.3 Resolves were passed, Nov. 10, in regard to
1 The record is probably made according to the town clerks own version
of the act. Be that as it may, the famous Mecklenburg Declaration of
Independence takes precedence by more than a year.
* See Vol. I. 501-3, and 515.
8 A traditionary fact, not found on the records, is reported by Hon. Charles
F. Swift, in his Fourth of July oration, 1859, that when in 1776 reinforce-
ments were sought, preparatory to taking possession of Dorchester Heights,ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
225
the currency. Mr. John Matthews died this year, Jan-
uary 7.1
In 1777, a committee “for the prevention of mo-
nopolies” was appointed; and, Feb. 17, a committee “to
draw up instructions to our representative in regard
to the articles of confederation and perpetual union.”
A meeting called “ for the adoption of the State Con-
stitution, adjourned the subject to a future day.”
It is to be remarked here that the two precincts
seem to have acted in separate capacities, not only in
ecclesiastical matters, but in the raising of troops, levy-
ing taxes for the support of the war, and other mili-
tary arrangements. The reason for this is not obvious,
nor were we apprised of the fact until the preceding
pages were written, embodying all important facts
that could be gleaned from the town records. The
presumption is that requisitions being made on the
town, the proportionate duty was, by order of the
town, or by tacit consent, undertaken by each precinct
within its bounds, for greater convenience. “ A levy
of troops being ordered this year, — one man out of
every seven, — making the quota from the Western.
Capt. Joshua Gray, who commanded the militia here, proceeded at once
witn a drummer to enlist volunteers for the service; and such was the
enthusiasm and alacrity displayed, that the next day 81 men, one-half the
effective force, were on their way to Washington’s headquarters.
'Mr. John Matthews, who d. at this time, m. Hannah Sturgis, March
9, 1707-8, and had Thomas May 4, 1710; Isaac Sept. 4, 1712; Rebecca
Nov. 31, 1714; John Mar. 29, 1717; James April 11, 1719; William
May 24, 1721 ; Thankful Jan. 9, 1724-5; David May 14, 1727; and
Elisha Aug. 7, 1730. Elisha, b. 1730, by Elisa, had James March 1,
1753; Tempe. 1755; Mary 1759; and Isaiah 1767. Numerous and
highly respectable have been the descendants of the progenitor here, Mr.
James Matthews, who came to this place from Charlestown about 1639,
was representative 1664, prominent in public affairs, and d. says Amos
Otis Esq. Jan. 26, 1684-5, leaving sons and drs. John, s. of Mr. James,
was killed at the Rehoboth fight, 1676, leaving a s. John. Samuel, b.
May 1, 1647, went, it is understood, to Cape May. Mr. Benj. youngest
son, who inherited the homestead we have mentioned, p. 216. Mr. James,
b. • '10, m. Dorcas Howes, 1723, and had Benj.. Feb. 13, 1725-6; James
Oct. 12, 1728; Prince July 11, 1732; Isaac Nov.. 24, 1736; and Eben’fc
Dec. 6, 1743.
vol. ii.	29226
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Precinct 36, measures were taken to raise the men
and provide the means; and, although five or six
meetings were held before it was accomplished, the
effort was succi ssful.” “ Reference is also made to 28
soldiers who went this year on an expedition to R
Island.”1
In 1778, a committee was appointed, June 9, “to
give the representatives instructions.” These, as re-
ported, were, in brief, 1. Early and constantly to be
in attendance on legislative duties;	2. To guard
against inequality of burthens; and, 3. Reasons why
the constitution of government should have been
“ preceded by a declaration of rights.”
It was at the same time “Voted, that the charge made by the
Indians having the small-pox2 be paid out of the town treasury,
and that their effects be sold to pay the same; also that the
lands formerly belonging to the Indians to live upon be sold or
hired out.” Mr. Abner Taylor d. “ on board the prison-ship in
New York, Feb. 8.”
In 1779, the aspect of public affairs was gloomy,
and so continued for several years during which time
there is little upon record of general interest beyond
evidence of embarrassment, struggle, and hope. Re-
quisitions for men, money, provisions, clothing, were a
sad tale to rehearse and need not be repeated. This
subject has already been exhibited3 * * * * 8 in preceding
1 These items we gather from Mr. Swift’s oration. Mr. S. with whom we
have communicated on the subject, says, “Many pp. of the precinct records
are devoted largely to revolutionary matters. The votes seem to be simply
matters of detail touching the number of men raised by each precinct, the
means by which they were procured, votes for raising money for the war,
assessing taxes for the purpose, etc. The calls were frequent, but seem
always to have been met with cheerfulness and alacrity.”
*See p. 176.
8 See Vol. I. 528. Some evidence of the existing state of things may be
fithered from the following letter, addressed to the Governor of either
ew York or New Jersey, bearing date Sandwich, Aug. 26, 1779 : “ The
subscriber, your Honor’s petitioner, begs leave to represent to your Honor
the distressed situation of this and the a iveral towns upon Cape Cod, in
the county of Barnstable, on account of he very great scarcity of provi-ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
227
pages of our work. In 1782, June 4, Mr. Joseph
White died, aged about 80.1
In 1783, the blessings of Peace began once more to
diffuse joy and gladness. If we now pass over some
years without remark, it is because, except the evi-
dences on every hand of returning prosperity, there is
little of local interest to be mentioned. In 1788, Col.
Enoch Hallett, some time high sheriff, died March 2,
aged 52. In 1791, Capt. Joshua Gray2 died March
sions, especially of the bread kind, there being a very considerable part
of the families in some towns who have none at all, nor have been able to
procure any for a considerable lime past, and must, unless permitted to ob-
tain some from your State, be reduced to a starving condition; in short,
their situation is little better now. Should your Honor be possessed of an
idea of one-half the real distress, it would not only induce to endeavor their
relief, but excite that painful sense of our sufferings which I know youi
benevolence could not suppress. What adds greatly to our distress is, w<;
have our shores infested with the enemy almost every week, attempting to
rob and destroy our Towns. The Reg’t of Militia I have the honor to com-
mand are frequently, a great part of them, doing duty on the shores, some of
them constantly, and often can hardly get one day’s allowance in three.
However, they have behaved with spirit, and repulsed the enemy to his
loss and disgrace. I, therefore, most earnestly entreat your Honor to per-
mit the small fleet by which this and another of the same tenor and date
comes — the boats being only three in number — to bring us a small quan-
tity of bread and other provisions. And as in duty bound shall ever pray,
&c.	(Signed) N. Freeman.
“ N. B. 63 men stationed at Falmouth were obliged to leave their post
for want of provisions.”
1Mr. William White, who came over in the Mayflower, m. Anne Ful-
ler in London, Feb. 1,1612. His son Peregrine, b. in the harbor of Cape
Cod, Nov. 1620, m. Sarah Bassett, dr. of Mr. William, 1648. He, the
first white man b. in New Eng., was brought up by Edward Winslow, who,
May 12, 1621, m. the widowed mother, — the first m. in Plymouth. She
had been a widow 2j mo., he a widower less than 2 mo. Peregrine set. in
Marshfield, where he d. 1704, ae. 84. In the Yarmouth record is this entry:
‘‘Jonathan White, s. of Peregrine and Sarah, of Marshfield, b. June 4,
1658; brought to record by sd. Jon. May 18, 1700. Yarm. rec. by me,
John Miller, clerk.” Joseph, g. s. of Peregrine, d. here June 4, 1782,
and “his son, Dea. Joseph,” says Alden, “had, in 1797, a staff that was
brought over in the Mayflower. The ancestor, here, lived near the rivulet
called ‘ White’s Brook.’ ”
2There are two of the name of Gray that receive early mention: 1.
Edward, who was in Plymouth 1643, a minor, and who m. Mary Wins-
low, dr. Jno. Jan. 16, 1650, who d. 1663, and 2d, Dorothy Lettice, Dec.
12, 1665; and had Desire Feb. 24, 1651, who m. Lt. Nathl. Southworth;
Mary Sept. 18, 1653; Elisa. Feb. 11, 1658; Sarah Aug. 12, 1659; John
Oct. 1, 1661; Edward Jan. 31, 1666; and Susanna Oct. 15, 1668.	2.
John, who was early in Yarmouth, and d. 1674, had Edward; John; Gid-
eon; and Mary, who m. Benj. Ry<?r, 1670; Benj. Dec. 7, 1645; and Wil-228
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
31, aged 48. Mr. Thomas Tobey also died this year,
aged 87.1
Until the year 1793, Yarmouth embraced, as a con-
stituent part of the township, the East Precinct, which
now, June 19, became by incorporation the town of
Dennis. From this period, therefore, the affairs of
that part of the ancient township cease to have place
in these annals.
In 1794, a meeting-house was erected on the south
side of the town; and it was agreed that the pastor
of the Yarmouth church, Rev. Mr. Alden, “shall
preach there every fourth Sabbath.” Capt. Elisha
Bassett died Feb. 12, aged 79.2 In 1796, March 8,
Mr. Edward Hallett died, aged 49.
In 1797 we are enlightened by the following expose,
of the political sentiments of the people, according to
the views of Rev. Timothy Alden Jr., formerly Presi-
dent of a western college, as given in his “ memora-
bilia” of Yarmouth: “With regard to the political
sentiments of the people, the Jacobinic error is not so
prevalent as in some of the towns in the vicinity.”
The reader will draw his own inferences. Mr. Thad-
deus Burgess d. Jan. 3, aged 30.3 In 1799, Mr. John
Thacher d. Aug. 12, aged 59.
liam Oct. 5, 1650. Edward, prob. s. of John, m. Melatiah Lewis, dr.
Geo. of Be., July 16, 1684, and had Priscilla Oct. 8, 1686; Gideon Sept.
6, 1688; John July 26, 1691; Melatiah June 6, 1694; and Mercy April
13, 1696.
1	See Annals of Dennis.
2	Capt. Elisha Bassett, who came from Sandwich to this town (see
Yol. I. 335), we mention here although his demise occurred the year suc-
ceeding the separation of the East Precinct in which he resided, because
he was so long active in public affairs, his greatly needed influence as a
true patriot and ardent whig being boldly and constantly exerted for the
good of his country. Posterity owes a debt of gratitude to those noble
sons of liberty in this country who stoutly withstood the temptations of ore-
rogative, the menaces of the minions of power, and the seductive arts and
wily opposition of a torv faction, to achieve the independence and glory
which were the result of the revolutionary contest.
8 Those of the name of Furgess have been numerous in this town andANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
229
In 1800, the amount raised for common schools was
$450. The Hon. David Thacher died November 9,
1801, aged 72.1 Capt. James Hall died June 20,1803,
aged 35, and Col. Thomas Thacher died Feb’y 24,1806,
aged 50.2
Mention may, with propriety, be made here of the
death of that distinguished divine, Rev. Samuel West,
D. D. native of this town, who died at Dartmouth, Sep-
tember 24, 1807, aged 78.3 Dea. Josiah Thacher died
Dennis, descended from Mr. John Burgess, the son of the first Thomas
of Sandwich, who m. Mary Worden, dr. of Peter, Sept. 8, 1657, and set-
tled here. He had sons John, Thos., Joseph, Samuel, and Jacob, and a
dr. Martha, who m. Samuel Storrs, jr., of Windham, Ct., Oct. 31, 1700.
Thomas, 2d. s. of the above John, m. Sarah Storrs, dr. of Sami, of Be.,
who, with a large family, removed to Windham about 1703. It will have
been noticed that, on p. 91, we stated our then present opinion that the
original family name was Burge. So it is frequently, but not uniformly,
found in early records. The conviction, however, of gentlemen eminently
qualified to investigate the matter, is that records mislead in this instance,
by the fault of chirographists, who, in the capacity of clerks, were some-
times illiterate, and often remarkably independent in their orthography,
as were many people in their orthoepy. In admitting some doubt in re-
gard to the original name, we are bound to recognize the high claim to
consideration of those who have learnedly and impartially investigated the
subject, and who decide that Burge was the corruption, not Burgess.
1	Hon. David Thacher, b. 1730, son of Judah, Esq. was much in pub-
lic life, and exerted a large influence in this town. It is said of him, u His
talents were solid, judicious, and useful, rather than brilliant; ” and the in-
scription on his tombstone says, “ In memory of Hon. David Thacher, Esq.,
who, having served his generation in many important stations with honor
and fidelity, died Nov. 9, 1801, aged 72. By a constant practice of the
social virtues, he rendered himself greatly beloved and respected in the va-
rious walks of domestic life.” He lived on the old ancestral domain ; was
representative thirty years; senator, several years; and member of the
conventions for framing and adopting the State and Federal Constitutions.
He was also judge C. C. P. 15 years. His son, David, Jr., who removed
to New Bedford, was the only issue that arrived at mature years. The
widow of the above, Abigail, died April 25, 1803, aged 76.
2	Col. Thos. Thacher, b. 1757, son of Lt. Peter, was prominent in
public affairs, faithful and honored; but in no position more useful than,
nearly all his life, as a school-teacher. He had sons, Thomas and George.
We have before us the autograph of this gentleman, beautifully written,
addressed to Lt. Jeremiah Howes Nov. 23, 1791, somewhat characteristic
of both the men and the times. The note says, “ Bro. Howes, The fatted
calf is to be killed to-morrow; if you will take Aunt Tempe and come up
and dine with me, I believe you will receive pleasure enough to balance
the time and expense in coming.”
8 Rev. Dr. West was a man of strong mental power, and, in personal
appearance is said to have resembled the great lexicographer, Dr. Johnson.
Mr. Sackfield West, the fa her, was also a man of strong mind, and230
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
January 19,1809, aged 69.;1 and Mr. Moses Hallet
died December 24, the same year, aged 81. The
amount raised for schools in 1810 was $500.
In 1812, in the month of December, Dea. Joseph
White died, aged 71; Mr. Sylvanus Crowell died Au-
gust 14,1814; Mr. Jonathan Hallet Jr. February 7,
1815, aged 90 years and 3 months; John Eldridge
Esq. died July 3, 1818, and Mr. Charles Hallet, No-
vember 15, 1821, aged 71.
In 1822, April 21, the Rev. Nathaniel Coggeswell
became, on ordination, the colleague of the venerable
Mr. Alden.2 The Hon. George Thacher, of the Supe-
rior Court of this State, who died April 6, 1824, we
have noticed in our former volume.3 Capt. Prince
Matthews died October 27, 1826, aged 57.
often exhorted the Indians in their meeting-house near his humble dwell-
ing, in the south-easterly part of the town, near Swan Pond, where the s.
was born, March 3, 1729-30, by the 2d w. Ruth. By a former w. Mary,
was Peleg b. April 19, 1717. Rev. Samuel West, D. D. was early oc-
cupied in Tabors of husbandry; but, a few good men discovering in the young
man uncommon traits of genius, resolved to give him an education, and he
graduated H. C. 1754. He became noted for his metaphysical and contro-
versial talents, and was a thorough critic in Latin, Greek, and Hebrew. He
was a noted and zealous whig during the Revolution; wrote much of a po-
litical character, and deciphered the remarkable letter of Dr. Church.
He was also of the convention for forming the Constitutions of Massachu-
setts and the United States; an honorary member of the Academy of Sci-
ences at Philadelphia, as also Boston; and almost invariably preached with-
out notes. His prominent writings are well known.
1	Dea. Thacher, b. 1732, s. of Judah, Esq. m. 1st, Desire Crowell who
died Feb. 27, 1788, aged 52; his last w. Maiy, the wid. of Dea. Isaac
Hedge, d. Jan. 15, 1711. He had sons, James, Josiah, and Edmund.
2	Mr. C. was from Atkinson, N. H., and grad. Dart. Col. 1819.
8 See Yol. I. 622, 732. Judge Thacher was, with all his many other
excellent qualities, a man of some humor. Willis, in his recent interesting
work on the Lawyers of Maine, relates the following: ‘ Solicitor Davis and
Judge T. when boys, were neighbors in Barnstable and Yarmouth. The
day after the battle of Bunker Hill, the militia of these towns set off for
Boston. The boys accompanied the soldiers, Davis acting as fifer. A few
miles out of Barnstable, an order came directing the military to return
home. In their retreat, Thacher and Davis, tired of their march, mounted
an old horse they met on the road, without saddle or bridle. After riding
some miles, they dismounted, and abandoned their steed in the highway.
Many years after, Davis, as Solicitor General, was prosecuting a horse-
thief, before Judge Thacher, in the county of Kennebec. In the course of
the trial, the judge leaned over the bench, and said, in undertone, to theANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
231
In 1828, November 13, the aged and truly reverend
pastor, Rev. Timothy Alden died, after a protracted
ministry of 59 years, aged 92.1 We vividly recall the
appearance of this aged gentleman, as we saw him last,
at the ordination of Mr. Hersey at Barnstable, in 1824.
Seated among the clergy and distinguished attendants
on the platform, his antique wig conspicuous, in small-
clothes, with knee and shoe buckles, and three-cornered
hat lying near by, — objects of interest to the young,
— we regarded his venerable aspect with thoughts
running back to antiquity. He sat there, as some-
times stands a solitary, aged oak surrounded by the
younger growth of a later period, It was to us the
last exhibition of the great wigs and cocked hats; it
left also impressions of a by-gone age long to be re-
membered.
In 1831, July 4, Dea. Howes Taylor died; Mr.
solicitor, “ Davy, this reminds me of the horse you and I stole in Barnsta-
ble.” ’ The judge was a Christian and a philosopher. In a letter, April
12, 1789, when in Congress, he writes, “ This is my birthday ; I am thirty-
five years old. . . . I hardly think it probable that I shall see so many years
as I have passed through. But, since I feel sure of living again, and that
in a state where I shall recognize all friends and relations, death has lost
most of its terrors. ... In the sleep of death, no dreams or phantoms will
disturb us. Till the resurrection we shall sleep. At this all-glorious day,
when we begin to think, act, and be happy, the night of death and insensi-
bility will disappear; it will not be perceived — an unperceived instant
only will separate the two stages of existence. Hence, whether we die at
thirty-five or seventy, is of less moment to him who dies. ... So much for
my birth-day reflections.” The Judge died six days short of three-score
and ten.
1 Mr. Alden, b. 1736, s. of Eleazer of Bridgewater, was in direct de-
scent from John of Pilgrim memory and his w. Priscilla Mullens, whose s.
Joseph, one of the original founders of Bridg. m. Mary Simmons and
had Dea. Joseph, who m. Hannah Dunham and had Eleazar, who m.
Martha Shaw and were parents of our Yarmouth minister. He m. Sarah,
dr. of Rev. Habijah Weld of Attleboro', Nov. 22, 1770, who d. 1796, aged
59. They had Timothy Aug. 28,1771, who grad. H. C. 1794, and set. in
the ministry in Portsmouth, N. H., afterwards became President of Alleghany
Col. Pa. and then of a Coll, at Meadville, and d. 1839; Isaiah Sept. 22,1772,
who grad. H. C. 1799, entered the ministry, and d. 1843; Martin Oct. 7,
1773, who grad. H. C. 1799, entered the ministry, and d. 1838; Oliver
March 9, 1775, who became a merchant in Charleston, S. C.; Sarah Weld
Dec. 17, 1776, and Martha Shaw Jan. 8, 1778.232
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Charles Hallet died September 26, 1832 ; Henry
Thacher Esq., July 29, 1833;1 Mr. Ebenezer Sears,
September 20,1835, aged 80, and John B. Doane Esq.,
September 11,1837.2
In 1840, the amount raised for schools was $ 1,200,
a very considerable advance since the last decade; and,
September 30, a Congregational church and society
was organized in the south part of the town. The
church consisted of sixty-four members, and the so-
ciety in connection with it erected a meeting-house
with steeple and bell. Aided by the Home Missionary
Society, they have had a succession of ministers. Dea.
Anthony Chase died January 7, aged 83, and Mr. Sam’l
Taylor, April 30, a citizen of revolutionary note.
In 1843, in April, James Crowell Esq. died, aged
75; Ichabod Sherman Esq., May 11, lt44, aged 70;
Dea. Samuel Matthews, October 14, 1846, aged 71, and
Elisha Doane Esq., October 8, 1848, aged 81. Mr.
George Hallet, of Boston, a native of this town, died
at his residence in Roxbury September 3,1845, greatly
lamented.3 4
In 1850, the amount raised by the town for its
schools was $1,600. Mr. Ansel Taylor died this year,
July 11, aged 101 years and 7 months.
1 Henry Thacher Esq. b. 1779, and m. Elizabeth Gray, was son of
Peter the s. of Peter 2d, who m. Betty Hawes. The brs. James b. 1771,
who m. Achsah Handy of S. and removed to Vassalboro’; Peter 1774,
who m. Lydia Marston; and Lewis 1781, who m. Sarah Hallet. Relics
are less frequently found among the representatives of ancient families on
the Cape than might be expected; but we recollect having seen within a
few years, at the house of Mrs. Peter Thacher, a cradle about 200 years
old, ingeniously made of oak by Col. John Thacher, the father of 21 chil-
dren ; and also the scarlet blanket in which the infant of Mr. Anthony
Thacher was wrapped when drowned by the wreck at Thacher’s Island,
near Newburyport, in 1635.
4 Mr. Doane was an estimable citizen, and s. of Elisha Doane Esq.
who was s. of Dea. Hezekiah of WeMeet.
8 Mr. George Hallet was long known as an eminent and successful
merchant, whose noble heart and public spirit made him extensively hon-
ored and greatly respected.ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
233
In 1854, *he Cape Cod Association, of Boston cele-
brated their Anniversary in this town, August 2. It
was an occasion of much interest and great enjoyment.1
Dea. Joseph White died January 15, 1856, aged 69,
and Doct. James Hedge, March 8, aged 82.2 James
1 We have given a brief account of this celebration in Vol. I. p. 781.
Chief Justice Shaw presided. A large concourse was in attendance, and
many distinguished guests who were not of Cape Cod origin. In recogni-
tion of these last, the Judge felicitously remarked, “We welcome them to
our meeting and to our hearts; and though they may discover in our speech
and manner a little family pride, a little self-gratulation in hinting at the
nobleness of our birth and the dignity of our descent from Cape Cod an-
cestors, yet we feel assured that they will rightly appreciate this harmless
vanity, and attribute it to a momentary feeling of local exultation, designed
wholly for house use ; and we trust they cannot fail to perceive, underlying
this sparkling ripple on the surface, there is a deep and abiding love and de-
votion in our hearts, to all the great interests of personal improvement and
social elevation, which we have in common with all the wise and good.”
There was manifest, by the way, no great unwillingness on the part of
some whose claims were thought to be doubtful, to prove the legitimacy of
their descent from this quarter. One of these, Hon. Josiah Quincy Jr., al-
luding to the fact that some had confessed that they were not descended
from the fathers of C. Cod, remarked, “ Neither ami; but I am proud to say
that I am — what is a great deal better—descended from the mothers of
Cape Cod. His honor, the chief justice, has raised a point of law. I have
a decision of the Supreme Court, — not of Massachusetts, but of the Prov-
ince of Massachusetts Bay, — given a hundred and thirty years ago, which
proves my right to be here. It so happened that the gentleman who held
the office of Chief Justice was my great-great-grandfather. Whether he
was judge of law I know not; but he was a judge of ladies. Being Chief
Justice he came down to this part of the world, and, I suppose, like His Ex-
cellency the Governor, having no criminal or civil business to do he looked
after the young ladies. The result was that when he got home to Braintree,
—Quincy, that now is, — he called his son Josiah to him and advised him to
go straightway down to Yarmouth, and to inquire for the house of one John
Sturgis, and to make himself as agreeable as he could to Miss Hannah Stur-
gis, who was there. Well, my ancestor Was, like his descendants, a very dutiful
son, particularly when his father told him to go and see the girls. So down
he came to Yarmouth. Whether he succeeded in the object of his mission
or not I will not say; but I have the honor of addressing you at this time.
There were no revolters at decisions in those times, and consequently the
reports are not extant; and I believe this is the only case of adjudication
by my ancestor the report of which has been preserved.”
* We had designed presenting synopses of the two learned professions,
law and medicine, in each town as we proceed with the Annals. Careful
examination has forced the conviction that the task would be not simpty
difficult of execution, but impracticable. The medical profession had few
regular practitioners here for many years. Amos Otis Esq. with whom I
have conferred on the subject, thinks that “ Thomas Starr the younger, was
the first doctor in town, and that he left for want of support.” Mr. O. says,
“ Most of the early pastors administered to diseases of the body as well as
soul. Mr. Thornton, I am told, practised medicine, and perhaps Mr. Ar-
nold at an earlier period. Mid vifery was then a useful and honorable em-
VOL. II.	30234
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Matthews Esq., for about one quarter of a century
selectman of the town and a leading citizen, died
December 15, aged 78, and February 7, 1857, Mr.
Joshua Sears, of Boston, a native of this town, aged
66! The State Legislature this year appropriated
$2,500 to enable Levi Baker of this town “ to test be-
fore the Supreme Court of the United States the con-
ployment. Deducting this business and surgery, lit le remained for the
local physician. Every family provided roots and herbs for sickness with
as much regularity as they provided corn and meats. Mrs. Kelley, who d.
1772, aged 82, had long an extensive practice.” On p. 55 the reader will
find reference to “one Mrs. Howes of Yarmouth,” to whom Rev. Mr.
Dally repaired from Sandwich to be cured of consumption, at a much
earlier period. The presumption is that the presence of a regular phy-
sician was considered less a necessity in early times than at present.
1 Mr. Joshua Sears, b. in this town, 1791, and now entombed here, was
long known as an industrious and successful merchant, capitalist, and ship-
owner. At an early age he went to Boston, and soon engaged in business
on Long Wharf, continuing in the same store to the close of his business-
life, and accumulated a very large property. He was always just in his
dealings, pains-taking, frugal, temperate, assiduous, far-seeing, and fore-
reaching. Of entire independence of character, he was also a keen and
accurate observer of the character of others; and, as a private banker, was
often of great service to his neighbors in trade by sustaining their issues.
Whilst exact in trade, and cautious, he never shrank from a friend in whom
he had reason to have confidence. Though not a politician, he was ever firm
in adherence to democratic principles “ of the Jackson stamp.” Known to
the public only in commercial transactions, few were conversant with his
private life and leisure hours; but those who were knew him not only as
an original thinker, but a great reader, with a memory most remarkably
tenacious, enabling him to repeat much that he had read, — even whole
pages of Homer’s Iliad, as translated by Pope. Articles of noticeable
ability were often written by him for the papers; and there is little room to
doubt that he would have stood high in any profession that he might have
chosen. Remaining a bachelor until two or three year3 before his death,
early in 1854 he m. Miss Phebe Snow, of Brewster, an estimable woman
who died the next year, Jan. 1, 1855, after giving birth to a son who sur-
vives. His married life was brief but happy. “Man proposes, but God
disposes,” was the exclamation with which he bowed to the severity of be-
reavement. Carrying his infant in his arms to the baptismal font, he
seemed ever after especially solicitous that the education of that child
should be religious, and, when himself about to depart, his interest in this
was deeply marked in the charge to his son’s future guardian. Mr. S. left
legacies to the amount of $107,000 to several relatives; $3,000 to the Sea-
man’s Friend Society; $15,000 to the town of Yarmouth for the establish-
ment of a Nautical School; and the balance of an immense property
to his son, — he to receive $30,000 on attaining his majority; then
$4,000 annually until past the age of 24 ; then $6,000 annually until of
the age of 30; and $10,000 per annum after that period; the property
being held by trustees, his executors, viz: Messrs. Alpheus Hardy, Horatio
Harris, and Hugh Montgomery.ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
235
stitutionality of an Act of the Legislature of Virginia
providing protection for slave property.”
In 1859, Rev. Mr. Coggeswell asked and received his
dismission from the pastorate of the ancient church
established here in 1639.1 2 * * * * *
In 1860, the sum of $2,600 was voted for schools.
This year, Nov. 25, the Hon. John Reed, who had long
been a prominent citizen here, d. at Bridgewater,
aged 79. He wras many years the Congressional
member from this district, and some time Lt.-Gov. of
the State.8
In 1861, Oct. 10, Frederick Hallett, Esq., attorney
at law, died aged 25 ; and, Nov. 1, Mr. Jonathan
Matthews, aged 74. Mr. Judah Crowell died May 8,
1862,	aged 75; and Mr. Joshua Hallett died, Jan. 25,
1863,	aged 84; and Mr. Joseph G. Tripp, April 17,
aged 63.
The Hydra which was so summarily dispatched by
the Herculean arm of President Jackson in 1832,
when threatening nullification, began, in 1861, to rear
again its head, attempting secession. The parentage of
the many-headed deformity so unhappily infesting the
1	Mr. C. continues a resident of this town.
2	Hon. John Reed, b. 1781, grad. Brown Univ., 1803, was s. of Rev.
John Reed, D. D. of W. Bridgewater. He became a resident here in
early life, opening an office for the practice of law, in which profession he
took high rank. He once represented this town in the legislature of the
State, and was twelve times elected in this district to Congress. The al-
most unexampled period of twenty-four years’ service in that body, was sug-
gestive of the distinction sometimes in later years given by his associates,
“the life member.” In 1844, he was elected Lt.-Gov., and continued in
that office, by successive elections, 7 years. By his m. with a dr. of Abie-
zer Alger, 1809, he had sons, John and Edward, and drs. one of whom m.
Joy, and the other, Hunt. Upon the decease of his 1st w., he m. wid.
Bond, of Bridgewater, and removed from this town to Bridgewater. Mr.
Otis thinks Mr. Reed was “ the first lawyer settled in town; unless such
men as Anthony Thacher, John Thacher, Judah Thacher, Edmund Hawes,
and Thomas Howes be called lawyers.” The remark doubtless indicates
correctly the course in early times. Leading men, who by their general
education and approved good judgment were best qualified to act, were
advisers, draughtsmen, etc.236
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
sunny South, and by its pestiferous breath poisoning
the fountains of noble impulses, whether of patriotism
or humanity, may be in doubt with some, as were Ty-
phasus and Echidna of mythological lore, — the one
comely in feature, but otherwise a serpent; the other,
the fruit of intercourse between Tartarus and Terra,
and whose dragon-mouth shot forth devouring fire:
but the offspring, so aptly represented by the monster
of Lake Lerna, cannot, as is become apparent, be de-
stroyed by decapitation alone. Iolaus must apply the
cautery.
Much censure has fallen on government, past and
present, that measures have not been more prompt
and emphatic. To the predecessor of the present in-
cumbent of the presidential chair it was objected,—
“ While you there do snoring lie,
Open-eyed Conspiracy his time doth take; ”
and of the present chief of the nation, complaint
has been murmured that his course, though decisive,
is vainly parental and conciliatory, — the occasion re-
quiring the sternest energy, that both rebels and trai-
tors may quickly learn
“ The severity of public power
Which they so set at nought.”
It is the privilege of posterity to decide on the per-
tinency of such reflections, whether as respects Mr.
Buchanan or Mr. Lincoln. Certain incontrovertible
facts, however, are already become history, viz.: that
the fruit of extreme views, held by leading politicians
at the South, beginning to be developed toward the
close of the late administrative term, in more frequent
menaces, exciting solicitude on the part of statesmen
on the watchtowers of the republic, but regarded with
incredulity by the people at large, soon assumed aANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
237
more factious shape. Slow to conceive of such mad-
ness possessing the minds of any considerable num-
bers of an enlightened public, self-conscious of uncor-
ruptness, and reliant, even, on the supposed virtue of
offenders, the masses were unalarmed, and probably
would have continued little moved, notwithstanding
the oft-repeated warning: —
“ There is a Machiavellian plot,
Though every man olfact it not!”
but for overt acts of defiance of public law. It re-
quired even then the attack upon Fort Sumter to
arouse the nation. The first booming of cannon
against an institution over which floated the national
flag, vibrated with a thrill of horror every chord of
loyal sympathy to the extremes of the Union.
It were late now to say, —
“ Wise States prevent purposes
Before they come to practice, and foul practices
Before they grow to act.”
Th6 general conviction, however, which quickly united
all faithful hearts, and moved in unison the patriotic,
of whatever previous shades of political differences,
was the same : —
“ The quarrel is not one of fame, or tribute,
Or of wrongs done unto confederates;
But for our own Republic ! ”
The remoter authors of so much mischief, — the causa
causans of the rebellion against which love of country
was called to contend — may have been differently
regarded by diversely-constituted minds; the nature
of measures necessary to accomplish the patriotic end
may have been variously estimated; and the laws of
war, — particularly military necessity,—inevitably de-238
HISTORY Otf BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
termined by the character of the insurrection, may
have grated harshly on the hearing, and been disso-
nant to the feelings of many; but it was practically
conceded by all good men and true that if the perpe-
tuity of the Republic and the blessings of liberty
founded on the principles of law and order, are to be
preserved, personal preferences, and, in some degree,
opinions must yield to the general weal, and national
fealty stand openly, boldly, determinedly for our Coun-
try’s cause. All eyes were turned to the helm of
State; many minds were filled with anxiety; many
prayers ascended to heaven; all felt the perils of the
h°ur-	“ Ev’ry pilot
Can steer the ship in calms; but he performs
The skilful part, can manage it in storms.”
Beautifully and nobly were the virtues of Ameri-
can citizenship illustrated by the unparalleled unanim-
ity with which all parties not tainted with crime gath-
ered around the nation’s chief magistrate, to uphold
his hands and encourage the manly performance of
his constitutional oath.
The Annals which we are about to close will not, we
trust, be regarded with indifference by descendants
from noble sires, who
“ Succeed their fathers	#
In manners as in shape.”
The early condition of the country, and especially
the settlers, will be objects of interest to every mind
of larg e intelligence, and of more than philosophic or
philan hropic interest to the heart of filial reverence.
We subjoin a list of Deputies, Representatives, Selectmen,
Treasurers, and Town Clerks: —ANNALS OF YARMOUTH.
239
DEPUTIES.
1639. Ihomas Payne,
“ Philip Tabor,
1641.	John Crowe,
“ Richard Hoar,
1642.	William Palmer,
1643.	Anthony Thacher,
“ Thos. Folland,
Yrs.		Yrs.		Yw.
2.	1644. Jas. Matthews,	2.	1662. Richard Sears,	1.
2.	1645. Edmund Hawes,	16.	1663. Yelverton Crowe,	3.
2.	1652. Wm. Lumpkin,	1.	1668. John Thacher,	9.
3.	“ John Joyce,	1.	1671. John Miller,	16.
6.	1653. Thos. Howes,	9.	1672. Thos. Howes,	5.
10.	1654. Sam’l Arnold,	2.	1677. Jere. Howes,	10.
2.	1655. Wm. Nickerson,	1.	1685. Silas Sears,	7.
	1658. Edw. Sturgis,	5.		
REPRESENTATIVES.
1692.	John Thacher,
“ Jere. Howes,
1693.	John Hallett,
1694.	Thos. Sturgis,
1695.	Jasper Taylor,
1696.	John Hawes,
1701. John Miller,
1703.	Elisha Hall,
1704.	Sam’l Howes,
1705.	Sam’l Sturgis,
170G. Zach. Paddock,
1711. Peter Thacher,
1713.	Joseph Hawes,
1714.	John Paddock,
1715.	Joseph Ilall,
1718.	Seth Taylor,
1719.	John Hedge,
1721. Eben Hawes,
1727.	Josiah Miller,
1728.	Shubael Baxter,
1732. Sam’l Sturgis,
1737. Judah Thacher,
1739. Dan’l Hall,
Yw. 2.	1740. Thos. Hallett,	Yrs. 1.
2.	1741. Jno. Hallett,	5.
1.	1746. Jno. Miller,	2.
9.	1748. Jos. Thacher,	3.
1.	1751. Joseph Hall,	3.
2.	1757. Thos. Howes,	1.
1.	1758. John Bearse,	1.
5.	1760. John Bare,	1.
1.	1764. David Thacher,	27.
1.	1774. Elisha Bassett,	3.
3.	1775. Enoch Hallett,	2.
3.	1779. Jona. Howes,	3.
2.	1780. Edm. Howes,	2.
1.	1786. Atherton Hall,	3.
2.	17 9. David Thacher,	Jr., 3.
1.	1802. Elisha Doane,	4.
3.	1 06. David Kelley,	2.
5.	1809. Jno. Eldridge,	6.
1.	“ Jas. Crowell, 1815. Thos. Hedge,	16.
4.		2.
7.	1816. Hy. Thacher,	4.
1.	1820. John Reed,	1.
4.	1827. Jos. Eldridge,	1.
1828. Jno. B. Doane,	3.
1830.	Chas. Hallett,	2.
1831.	Isaiah Crowell,	3.
“ Jos. White,	1.
1832.	Jno. H. Dunbar,	3.
1833.	David K. Akin,	3.
1834.	Oliver Hallett,	2.
1836 Reuben Ryder,	1.
“ N. L. Simpkins,	3.
“ Ich. Shearman,	1.
1837. Ezek. Crowell,	2.
183^. Freeman Taylor,	2.
1839.	Sylvs. Crowell,	1.
1842.	Joseph Hall,	1.
1843.	J. B. Crocker,	1.
1844.	Elisha Jenkins,	2.
1840.	Sam. Matthews,	2.
1848. Ezek. Crowell,	2.
1852. Chas. Baker,	2.
1854. Sam. Thacher.	2.
1856. Zadok Crowell,	1.
1858. B. H. Matthews,	1.
SELECTMEN.
Yrs.
1665. Anthony Thacher,	2.
“ Edmund Hawes,	23.
“ Jas. Matthews,	4.
“ John Miller,	28.
“ Joseph Hawes,	2.
1667.	Edw. Sturgis,	16.
“ Yelverton Crowe,	1.
“ Sam’l Sturgis,	1.
1668.	Thos. Howes,	8.
“ Jno. Thacher,	J5.
1676. Jere. Howes,	20.
1683.	Jos. Howes,	5.
1684.	John Hall,	1.
1685.	Silas Sears,	10.
1693. Joseph Hall, Sr.,	2.
“ Josiah Thacher,	10.
1695. Thos. Folland,	4.
1697. Jno. Hallett,	5.
“ Thos. Sturgis,	3.
1699. Sam’l Sturgis, 29
1701. Joseph Hall,	28.
1702 Peter Thacher,	5.
1707. Jona Howes,	3.
“ John Howes,	8.
“ Josiah Miller,	15.
1718. Shubael Baxter,	7.
“ Seth Taylor,	1.
“ Judah Paddock,	4.
1728.	Eben Hall,	13.
1729.	Peter Thacher,	4.
“ Timothy Hallett,	1.
1729. Jona Baker,
1731. Jos Bassett,
1734. John Sears,
1737. Judah Thacher,
“ Dan’l Hall,
1741. Jno. Hallett,
1745. Jno. Howes,
1747. Jona. Smith,
1750. Jona. Hallett,
“ Jos. Thacher,
1753. Isaac Chapman,
1755.	Eben. Taylor,
1756.	Prince Hawes,
“ Lot Howes,
1758. Jno. Hedge,
1760. Thomas Tobey,
1767. Rd. Baxter,
1769. Isaac Matthews,
“ David Thacher,
“ Sam’l Howes,
1771.	Seth Tobey,
1772.	Dan’l Taylor,
1772. Edw. Hall,
1776.	John Hall,
1777.	Seth Crowell,
1778.	Jno. Chapman,
“ Sam’l Eldridge,
1781.	Jere. Howes,
1782.	Isaac Hallett,
“ Josiah Hall,
1786. Israel Nickerson,
r rs.
1.
7.
2.
5
29.
13.
6.
1.
3.
1.
11.
4.
14.
12.
13.
1.
10.
4.
1.
1.
1
2.
3.
10.
6.
1.
3.
1786. Athn. Hall,	1.
1788.	Dan’l Crowell,	2.
1789.	Thos. Thacher,	15.
“ Peter Sears,	1.
1792. Thos. Howes,	2.
1795. Matt. Gorham,	2.
1797. Abner Taylor,	9.
“ Benj. Matthews, 13.
1801.	Chas. Hallett,	2.
1802.	Seth Baker,	1.
1806.	Joseph Hawes, 2.
1807.	Elkanah Crowell, 9.
1808.	Jno. Eldridge, 8.
1810.	Eben. Gage.	3.
1811.	Howes Taylor, 5.
1816. Prince Matthews, 10.
“ Seth Kelley,	2.
1818. Eben. Bray,	7.
“ Gorham Crowell, 17.
1821.	Bars. Thacher, 1.
1822.	Sam’l Thacher, 14.
1825. James Matthews, 25.
1830. Wm. Green,	1.
1834. Ich. Shearman, 11.
1844. Elisha Taylor, 18.
1848. Sam’l Matthews, 1.
1851. Silas Baker,	2.
“ Thacher Taylor, 13.
1855.	Eliakim Studley, 1.
1856.	Watson Thacher, 5.
1861. Zadok Crowell, 3240
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
TOWN TREASURERS.
Yrs.
1630. Anthony Thacher,i	28.
1667. Edm. Hawes,i	28.
1695. John Howes,	3.
1606. Jno. Paddock,	1.
1697.	Jas. Sturgis,	1.
1698.	Thomas Howes,	Sr., 1.
1701.	Thos. Sturgis,	1.
1702.	Sam’1 Sturgis,	11.
1709. Peter Thacher,	4.
1715. Josiah Miller,	12.
1721. Edw. Sturgis,	2.
1729. Joseph Hawes,	7.
zro.
1737. Judah Thacher,	12.
1744. Jno. Crowell,	3.
1748. Seth Hall,	1.
1753. Thos. Tobev,	11.
1759. Jasher Taylor,	2.
1765. Prince Hawes,	5.
1768. Sam’l Howes,	2.
1771. Dan’l Taylor,	5.
1776. Seth Tobey,	3.
1778. Josiah Thacher,	3.
1781. Jos. Griffith,	8.
1784. Athn. Hall,	4.
in.
1788.	Jere. Howes,	1.
1789.	Jno. Thacher,	10.
1805. Jas. Hedge,	5.
1810.	Elisha Doane,	1.
1811.	Oliver Alden,	6.
1812.	Isaiah Alden,	5.
1817. Joshua Hamblen,	8.
1829. Jno. B. Doane,	8.
1837. Simn. Crowell,	4.
1841. Thacher Taylor,	3.
1844. Wm. P. Davis,	19.
TOWN CLERKS.
1639. Anthonv Thacher, 1667. Edm. Hawes,	Yn. 28.
	25.
1693. John Miller,	12.
1705. Peter Thacher,	31.
1735. Jno. Crowell,	8.
1736. Sam’l Sturgis,	1.
1740. Judah Thacher,	8.
1748. Seth Hall,	1.
1753. Thos. Tobey,	9.
xrs.
1759. Jasher Taylor,	3.
1765. Prince Hawes,	5.
1768. Sanrl Howes,	2.
1772. Daniel Taylor,	3.
1775. Seth Tobey,	4.
1778. Josiah Thacher,	3.
1781. Joseph Griffith,	8.
1784. Atherton Hall,	4.
1788. Jere. Howes,	1.
1789. Jno. Thacher,	19.
1805. Jas. Hedge,	6.
1811.	Oliver Alden,	5.
1812.	Isaiah Alden,	5.
1817. Joshua Hamblen,	8.
1829. Benj. Matthews,	8.
1837. Simeon Crowell,	4.
1841. Thacher Taylor,	3.
1844. Wm. P. Davis,	19.
1 It is supposed that Mr. Anthony Thacher, the first town clerk, continued to act in that
capacity until his decease in 1667; and that Mr. Edmund Hawes then succeeded him, and
that these gentlemen were also town treasurers.
So intimately blended are the histories of the present Yar-
mouth and Dennis, that some seeming omissions may be notice-
able in these annals of the parent town, which may be supplied
in the annals of its former constituent part.THE
ANNALS OF THE TOWN
OP
BARNSTABLE.
“NO EARTHLY BRIBE WOULD TEMPT MB TO RESIGN THE KNOWLEDGE — IF IT COULD BE BB-
SIGNED—THAT I BELONG TO THE LINEAGE OF THOSE STARCH AND TRUE MEW WHO SOWED THE
SEEDS OF THAT HARVEST WHICH TWO CENTURIES HAVE BEEN RIPENING IN THIS EXCELLENTLY
productive region of Capb Cod.” —John Gorham Palfrey.
YOL II.	31	(241)Jfnsmption.
TO MR. NATHAN MATTHEWS,
OF BOSTON:
When Themistocles, at a feast, was invited to touch the lute, he replied that
he could not fiddle; nevertheless, it is written of him that
“He mode of a small town a great city:”
The Merchant whose sagacity, energy, and financial skill give him a high position
among his compeers, may neither by the influence of education nor taste incline to
the paths of literature in either historical or genealogical research; yet, generously
appreciating its toils and patriotic intent, becomes its benefactor:
To him, therefore, whose unanticipated, nobly disinterested, and timely aid—not
as a loan, but as a boon freely bestowed, joined to the generous impulses of others
— enables us to prosecute the work in hand at a time of national calamity, when an
incubus seems to rest on all other emanations from the press that are not merely
ephemeral, these Annals of the Shire Town of his native County are very respectfully
INSCRIBED
as a slight token of the remembrance and grateful sense of
THE AUTHOR.
(M2)ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE
A grant was made by the Colony Court, June 4,
1639,1 “ to Mr. Joseph Hull and Thomas Dimoc with
their associates to erect a plantation or town at or
about a place called by the Indians Matfachecsc.” 2 But
there is no authentic account of the first settlement
made, unless that be the first, October 11, 1639, when
Mr. Lothrop and members of his church in Scituate
removed hither. Doubtless, however, the traditions
that reconnoissances had been previously made, are
correct. It were strange if the place had not been
earlier visited by some of the company, in search of a
favorable location;3 and possibly some settlement may
have been attempted in advance of the general emi-
gration which took place in 1639 and 1640.
Besides the Rev. John Lothrop, and members of his
congregation who were not communicants, some with
families, came the following church members and their
families, viz:
Anthony Ann able,	Edward Caseley,
Henry Bourne,	Willlam Caseley,
1	Corresponding with June 14, 1639, N. S.; as does the arrival of Mr.
Lothrop with Oct. 21, N. S.
2	This was after the revocation of a previous “ grant to Mr. Callicot and
associates of Dorchester.”
8 The hypothesis receives support from Mr. Lothrop’s diary; the una-
voidable impression being that some of the company had, previous to Mr.
Lothrop’s coming, caused habitations to be erected for themselves and
friends. Rev. Joseph Hull, and Mr. Thomas Dimoc are particularly men-
tioned as pioneers.
(243)244
HISTG-lY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Henry Cobb,
John Cooper,
William Crocker,
James Cudworth,
Thomas Dimoc,
Henry Ewell,
Edward Fitzrandal,
Samuel Fuller,
William Parker,
Isaac Robinson,
Henry Rowley,
Robert Shelley,
Isaac Wells.
George Lewis,
Robert Linnell,
Richard Lumbard,
Samuel Hinckley,
It has sometimes been said that “ the Scituate
church ” came; it is, doubtless, proper to state tHa't a
majority of the male members of that church came.1
Mr. John Allyn, who is sometimes included in the
majority of first-comers, is said to have been here
1 Holmes’ Am. Annals say, “ Yarmouth and Barnstable were settled this
year; the church in Scituate was in a broken condition for several years.”
The records at Scituate show that u more than half the church, with the
pastor, removed to Barnstable.” It has therefore been claimed that the
ancient church of Barnstable is the true representative of the first Cong.
Ch. established in England. The Scituate church, “composing a ma-
jority,” it is said, “ of that celebrated church gathered by the Rev. Henry
Jacob, at Southwark, London, in 1616, emigrated to these shores,— about
thirty in all, — under the lead of Rev. John Lothrop, their pastor, and lo-
cated in the wilderness called Scituate, Sept. 27, 1634, where thirteen of
the former members, who had joined the Plymouth church, reunited with
them soon after their arrival. The majority of the church made one more
move, and settled in Barnstable where is now the \\ esfc Church in that
town. The residue immediately reorganized and called Rev. Chas. Chaun-
cey to become their pastor.” The Scituate Church had for several years
labored under difficulties. Established Jan. 8, 1634-5, Anthony Annable,
Henry Cobb, George Kendrick, Geo. Lewis, and others, having been dis-
missed from the church in Plymouth the 23d of the present Nov. to unite ir
church estate at S., Mr. Lothrop, who is said to have been “ chosen pastor
Jan. 19,” was duly installed. The same year, Dec. 15, “Bro. Henry Cobb
was chosen deacon;” and “Feb. 22, 1736-7, brs. Foster and Besbetch
were chosen deacons.” But as early as 1637-8, evidences of discontent
were manifest, Mr. Lothrop, Mr. Timothy Hatherly, Goodman Annable,
and others, representing to the General Court “ that they had but small por-
tions of land in Scituate; and notwithstanding lands were subsequently set
off to them between North and South rivers, difficulties of an embarrassing
nature were thought to attend the location,” so that for the sake of peace,
Mr. L. was desirous of seeking another place, and to this end made applica-
tion to Gov. Prince.
* Mr. Parker, it is contended, did not come until 1640, and Mr. Cud-
worth, who Mr. Palfrey says was one of the company who came with Mr.ANNALS OF BABNSTABLE.
245
The place to which a removal from Scituate was
first contemplated, was Sippecan, alias Seipigan; and an
order of Court, December 1638, granting lands there
to several of those who have been named as first-
comers here, was made with that view. The grant
was to Thomas Besbeeck (Bisbee), James Cudworth,
Anthony Annable, Henry Cobb, Henry Rowley, Edward
Foster, and Robert Linnell, a committee from Scituate,
“ for seating a congregation ; ” and although a diversity
of opinion existed from the first, causing much de-
liberation, some preferring Mattacheese, the destiny of
the company seemed to point to Sippecan. Mr. Loth-
rop writes, “Jan. 23, 1638-9, we that were for Sippe-
can divided into three companies, and prayed for di-
rection in electing committees for setting down the
township ; ” and, again, “June 13, a fast on account of
drought, and also in regard to disunions in general, and
for Cod’s directing and providing providence for us in
the point of removal.” At last, however, impediments
hitherto in the way of an advantageous location at
Mattacheese being removed by the vacation of the
grant to Mr. Callicot, the place of destination at once
L. in 1639, may have come later; but whether either first arrived in com-
pany with Mr. L. is of little moment. Both were early on the ground.
Mr. Cudworth was one of the original associates, and the Scituate records
show that he was of the original number who withdrew to constitute the
Barnstable church. His associations were such that his business seemed for
a time to lie in both directions, causing him to vacillate much and often be-
tween the two places. His legal residence for some months or longer, as
admitted or interpreted, may be a question, and was, doubtless, so regarded
at the time. He was not long an inhabitant of Barnstable, but resumed
his position in Scituate in 1646. His excellent character we have noted
Vol. I. 302-4. After leaving Barnstable he was subject to trials that
proved the inflexibility of his principles and illustrate the vicissitudes that
attend political distinction. His letter to Mr. Brown, 1658, then of Lon-
don, was the ostensible cause of much trouble ; and, with the proceedings
consequent thereupon, clearly defines his position. Acts are true exponents
of “ principles,” and apply in this sense to both him and his opponents.
The same general remarks touching the question of habit? ncy may apply
to others of the first settlers. We do not undertake to lefine the pre-
cise moment of arrival or departure.246
HISTOJLY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
changed in the view of many; and hence the good
pastor writes, “June 26, a fast for the presence of God
in mercy to go with us to Mattacheese.”1 The pre-
ponderance in favor of this latter place may have
been induced by the supposed superiority of soil, and
its adaptation to the raising of grain, much of the
land being already cleared by the Indians who in pre-
vious years had successfully cultivated it, as also by
the great extent of “hay grounds” which, without cul-
tivation, yielded abundant provender for cattle.
Arrived at Mattacheese, “ A thanksgiving was
held at the house of Mr. Hull, for God’s exceeding
mercy in bringing us hither safely and in health;”
and further, says the pastor, “After praises to God in
public were ended, as the day was cold, we divided
into three companies to feast together, — some at Mr.
Hull’s, some at Mr. Mayo’s, and some at bro. Lum-
bard’s Sr.” The pious act so worthy of the first set-
tlers, and the brotherly and joyous greetings around
the festive board, as they were not the beginning, so
they were not the ending of fraternal faithfulness, nor
of humble acknowledgments of God’s providential
1 In letters addressed to Gov. Prince in 1635, touching a proposed re-
moval, the originals of which letters were found among Gov. Winslow’s
papers, Mr. L. says, “ Many grievances attend me, from which I would be
tree, or at least have them mitigated if the Lord see it good.” Again,
“Your worthy self, together with the rest joined and assisting in the govern-
ment with you, having gratuitously and freely, upon our earnest and
humble suits, granted and conferred a place for the transplanting of us;
wherefore, let me entreat and beseech you to do this further great courtesy
for us: to make composition with the Indians for the place with what speed
you can, and we will freely give satisfaction to them.” Notwithstanding
the place to which Mr. L. in this* correspondence refers was Sippecan, we
have no reason to doubt that when the destination of himself and associates
was changed, the same courtesy solicited was readily extended by Gov. P. in
reference to the newly-contemplated location. How far the differences in
opinion which at this early day prevailed in the churches and among minis-
ters, affected the church at Scituate, we need not inquire; but an entry by
Mr. L. —-“Oct. 12, 1637, fast for reconciliation betwixt Mr. Cotton and
other ministers ” — shows how general was the excitement produced by re-
ligious discussions.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
247
care. The same month, “ October 31, a fast was held
to implore the grace of God to settle us here in
church estate and to unite us together in holy walk-
ing, and to make us faithful in keeping covenant with
God and one another.” This devout recognition of
Deity and prayerful reliance on heavenly direction
seems to have been a marked characteristic of the
excellent pastor and his company of Christian pil-
grims, as evidenced on many occasions; one or two
instances of which we will, before dismissing our no-
tices of this godly trait, quote from Rev. Mr. Lothrop’s
diary. The first shall be,—
“April 15,1640, a day of tasting and prayer on occasion of the
investing of my brother Mayo with the office of a Teaching
Elder,1 upon whom myself, Mr. Hull, and brother Cobb, lay our
hands;2 and for the Lord to find out a place for meeting, and
that we may agree in it; as also that we may agree about the
division of lands.” The other, of later date, “March 24, 1652,
thanksgiving for the Lord’s admirable powerful working for
Old England by Oliver Cromwell and his army against the
Scotts.”3
Where the first meeting-house stood, it is perhaps
1	As the distinction between pastor and Teaching Elder in the early ec-
clesiastical arrangements of the Congregational churches, may not otherwise
be readily apprehended by every reader, we quote from the fountain of
authority without attempting other elucidation: “ The office of Pastor and
Teacher appears to be distinct. The pastor’s special work is to attend to
exhortation, and therein to administer a word of wisdom ; the teacher is to
attend to doctrine, and therein to administer a word of knowledge; and
either of them to administer the seals of that covenant into the dispensation
whereof they are alike called; as also to execute the censures, being but a
kind of application of the word, — the preaching of which, together with
the application thereof, they are alike charged withal.” — Comb. Platform.
2	It appears from the same diary, that, “ March 26, 1640-1, bro. Cooper
was invested with the office of Deacon, I, bro. Mayo, and bro. Cobb laying
on hands;” and “Aug. 7,1650, bro. Dimmicke was invested with the office
of Elder.” Another evidence of the simplicity and orderly course of those
times may be inferred from an entry made 1642: “John Smith and Su-
sannah Hinckley contracted at our sister Hinckley’s house. J. Lo. ”;
by which, we suppose, is meant that they engaged themselves to each
other, in presence of witnesses; or, in other words, were betrothed, intend-
ing marriage at some future day.
3	No one will doubt the “ puritanism ” of these good men.248
HISTORY OP BARNSTt BLE COUNTY.
difficult now to determine positively;1 but tradition,
as now delivered, says, the first public worship in
Barnstable was held on and around a rock, which
rock, or rather a portion of it, is still pointed out;
and around that rock, it is said, was held the first
town-meeting.2
The first deputies to the General Court, were Mr.
Joseph Hull and Mr. Thomas Dimoc, who took their
seats on the first Tuesday of December, 1639.
The Indian name of the township was, as we have
seen, Mattaeheese; that is, such was the name of the
Indian tract lying near the ancient Chiimaquid harbor,3
and embracing part of both Barnstable and Yarmouth.
Other tracts were I/jammigh’s,4 Cheekwaquet, Skvnkanuck,®
Coatuit,® Mistic, Cotocheeset, Skauton7 in part, and Tama-
hepaseakon.
1	Mr. Palfrey says, “ The first meeting-house of which we find any record,
stood about one-fourth m. W. from the present meeting-house of the East
parish, on the W. side of the old burying-ground. Four acres for a house-
lot had been assigned to Mr. Lothrop, soon after his arrival, on the E. side
of that inclosure which probably had been used for interments from the
first settlement.” Mr. Otis says, “The first meeting-house stood in the
ancient grave-yard on the opposite of the road from Rev. Mr. Hull’s
house.”
2	Tradition is sometimes at fault, and often unreliable. If Rev. Mr.
Lothrop’s carefully-kept diary is worthy of credit, — and who can doubt?*
— the first act of pub. wor. after the arrival of the company, Oct. 11,
1639, was in Rev. Mr. Hull’s house, where thanksgiving was held; and this
house is understood to have been directly opposite the ancient grave-yard,
on the other side of the ancient highway. Still, the tradition remains, and,
therefore, as in duty bound, we give the reader the benefit of Mr. Palfrey’s
description of its locality: “ Tradition designates the great rock in the
highway, a little more than 2 miles W. of the court-house. A portion of
that memorable rock was removed some years since, being thought to over-
hang the road in a dangerous manner.”
8 It has been supposed that had the Mayflower adventurers, who left
Cape Cod harbor in search of a convenient place to settle, not encountered
a severe and blinding snow-storm soon after leaving Nauset, where they
had remained over night, their shallop making a haven of a small creek,
they would have discovered and sought refuge in this harbor; in which
event Mattaeheese might have been their place of settlement. The thick-
ness of the storm prevented their seeing Sandy Neck, and consequently
they missed the harbor.
4 Variously written, often Yanno's, or Janno’s, Iyamo's, Hyanno’s,—
meaning the Sachem’s lands.
6 Or Skonkonet. e Sometimes, Satul'e. 7 Sometimes, Skanton.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
249
Situation and Boundaries. — Barnstable lies nearly in a
S. E. direction from Boston, from which place it is distant at its
western limit about 66 miles, and at its eastern about 75. It is
bounded W. by Sandwich and the district of Marshpee; E. by
Yarmouth; and is washed by the waters of the sea on the N.
and S. The breadth from shore to shore, across the peninsula is,
on its eastern bound, a little more than 5 miles; and on its
western, about 9 miles. Its extreme length from W. to E. is 8
miles.
Soil, Surface, Natural Divisions, etc. — Approaching
from Sandwich, a broad expanse of Salt Marshes is present
to the eye, walled in from Barnstable Bay, for the most part by
a border of sand-hills, and exhibiting in the season for haying
innumerable ricks, appearing in the distance but small cocks.
The sandy confine of these marshes is a tongue of land called
Sandy Neck, projecting from the Sandwich line on the N. shore,
and is about J m. wide and 7 m. in length, running E. along the
bay shore almost the entire length of the township. This neck
forms the harbor, the ancient Chumaquid ; and between the
neck and upland is the largest body of salt meadows in the
State. Protected from the sea by the neck, these meadows,
formerly designated as “the hay grounds,” and a great induce-
ment to the early occupancy and settlement of the township,
yield, as has been estimated, more than 8,000 tons of provender.
Connected with these “ Great Marshes,” are many acres of
Fresh-meadows, lying chiefly above what has from the early
settlement been known as the “ Great Bridge.” The neck has
some wood upon it, and a variety of shrubbery, — red-cedar,
wild-cherry, beach-plum, etc. It also produces grapes, cranber-
ries, and other berries.
The Harbor which lies within Sandy Neck and washes the
marshes that also lie between the neck and the upland, is about
1 m. wide and 4 m. long. A bar lying N. E. of the neck, and
extending several miles, forbids the entrance of the larger class
of vessels; but access is afforded to craft of about 8 feet draught.
At the mouth of the harbor, on the point of the neck, is a light-
house. Ordinary full tides give about 10 feet within the harbor.
In the W. part of the township is a small harbor at the head
of a large creek. On the S. side is the harbor called Lewis’s
Bay, the entrance to which is within the limits of this town, the
bay itself extending into Yarmouth about 2 miles, — commo-
dious, land-locked, and safe. Hyannis Road is a harbor that
VOL. II.	32250
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
has a good entrance, and often affords shelter in atoms to
vessels passing through the Vineyard Sound. It lies 1 or 2
m. to the westward of the harbor last named, near the entrance
to Lewis’s Bay, and is chiefly formed by an island joined to Yar-
mouth by a beach, which together form the outside bound of
the bay. Point Gammon is the terminus of the island and its
connecting beach. There is also a small bay near the S. W.
limit of the township, called Oyster Bay, which gives a harbor
convenient for small craft. Coatuit Port Harbor, the outlet
of Marston’s River, is of some importance, but is much ob-
structed by a sand-bar.
Ponds are numerous. Of the larger class are between 20 and
30. Nine-Mile Pond is the largest.1 Connecting with the
chain of ponds stretching through the township to near Mar-
ston’s Mills, is scenery that is somewhat romantic. Many of
these inland waters are stocked with the smaller kinds of fish.
The streams of water are few and small. From the situation
of the land, they are necessarily short. Coatuit River is in
part the bound between this town and Marshpee. There are two
or three others E. of this, emptying on the S. side, and affording
mill privileges,2 viz: Marston’s, Skunkonet,3 and Jones’
Rivers ; as also smaller streams. Marston’s and Coatuit Riv-
ers are valuable resorts for ale wives, and as such are under the
control of the town. Trout of an excellent quality are found
in some of the brooks.
The surface on the N. side of the township, with the excep-
tion of the marshes, is generally uneven, and much of the land
is rocky. The township, however, contains much good upland,
and is largely agricultural; in some instances yielding from 50
to 100 bushels of Indian corn per acre. The average is perhaps
from 25 to 40. On the N. side a dark loam prevails, sometimes
clay, again a mixture of sand.4 A ridge of hills extends E.
and W. the entire length of the township, the greatest height
being attained about m. from the great marshes. Scorton,
1	On the records it is often Cooper’s Pond. It was also known to the
early settlers as the Great Indian Pond.
2	The westerly branch of Skunkonet Brook is now known as Bump’s
River, and the easterly as Phinney’s Brook.
8 There are other seats for mills; one, on the river flowing from Baxter’s
Pond. The vicinity of this was probably the Indian Tamahepeseakon.
4 Rev. Mr. Mollen, in his day, said, “ Formerly much flax was raised
here. Onions were raised in large quantities, — from 1,200 to 1,800 bush,
per annum. Wheat, formerly.”ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
251
Prospect, and Shoot-flying Hills 1 are among the most noted ele-
vations. From some parts of the range the waters on either
side of the Cape are visible. Much of this ridge is unsusceptible
of cultivation and is covered with wood.2 The land S. of this
range of hills is comparatively level, a portion wooded, the rest
in tillage, — the soil light but productive. In the township are
some valuable cranberry meadows.3
On either side of the township were formerly large invest-
ments in salt-works. Some of these yet remain. The fisheries
were formerly carried on here more extensively than at present.
The business of the town, though considerable, is not concen-
trated in any particular locality. With the largest population of
any Cape town, and for many years the shire of the county,
there is little of poverty, much of thrift. In 1839, it was said
there were about 250 of its citizens, either masters or mates of
vessels,—numbers sailing in the finest ships of the Union. Wher-
ever the stars and stripes float are some of its accomplished
mariners.
The locality is one of health.4 In respect to educational privi-
leges, the town will rank with New England towns generally;
school-houses, well built and furnished, stand thick, and the
spires of its meeting-houses catch the eye of the traveller, telling
“how God is reverenced and knowledge prized.” In relation to
the men it has furnished to occupy positions of influence, and of
distinguished eminence, nothing need here be said.
We pass from this general survey of the face of the country,
its business, its morals, its intelligence, etc., to note its prominent
settlements. That which, at the ancient Scorton, first greets the
eye of the wayfarer in passing from Sandwich “ down the Cape,”
is West Barnstable, — “Great-Marshes,” its more familiar
name to many, from long use. In olden times known as the
“West Parish,” it was the more important division. It is 4 m.
1	The ancient practice of shooting geese, ducks, &c. from this elevated
ground, as they emerged from the waters to pass from one side of the isth-
mus to the other, gave rise to the name.
2	Large quantities of wood were formerly sent by water to market.
8 It is well known that the early settlers of this town were an agricul-
tural people. “ It was only by degrees that the advantages of their situa-
tion for the employments of fishing and navigation were perceived and
turned to account.” — Palfrey.
4 A large proportion of the population live to be aged. Rev. Mr. Mel-
len reported that of 174 deaths in his, the East Parish, nine years previous
to the year 1794, out of 1,3G5 inhabitants, 40 were over 70, 18 over 80,.
and one over 90 years old at the time of decease.252
fflSTOBT or BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
W. of the court-house, and contains sotie of the best farms in
the county. The settlement is less compact than in some other
portions of the town; but all along the county road are seen
the continuous abodes of its thrifty inhabitants,1 whilst, farther
inland, including u the Plains,”2 are villas dotting nearly its en-
tire extent. Here is a Congregational meeting-house, the usual
quota of stores, etc., and a railroad depot. Like the villages in
every other part of the town, it has its ample and convenient
school-houses. On one side of this division, near Centreville, is,
in the margin of a forest, and almost isolated, possessing in more
than ordinary degree the marks of puritanical and primitive
simplicity, the unostentatious building known as “the Town
House,” designed for the transaction of the town’s business. In
West Barnstable, too, was the domicile of the distinguished
Jambs Otis Sr., and here his son, “ the Patriot,” James Otis
Jr. was born.3
The East Division of the town, a part of the ancient Matta-
cheese, now designated as Barnstable proper, connecting im-
mediately with Yarmouth at “the Port,” and which has become
the “court-end,” is agreeably located, and of pleasing aspect.4 *
Here are the county buildings of stone;6 and the brick edifice
erected by the United States Government, for the use of the
customs and post-office. Many handsome private residences, a
Congregational Unitarian meeting-house, another for the Bap-
tists, and yet another for the Methodists, an academy, the Ma-
sonic Hall, a printing establishment, from which is issued “The
Barnstable Patriot,” a savings’ bank, stores, etc., and railroad
depots, give to the place, with all its quiet, a tout ensemble of
elegance, comfort, and independence.
Hyannis, the ancient “ IyannougKs,”6 on the south side of
1 See p. 174.	2 Generally called “ Hamlin's Plain."
8 Mr. Palfrey remarks, “ Some one has said, 4 No spot has made such a
gift to the country as has Great Marshes in Barnstable.' Let us be con-
tent to make one exception for the birth-place of that peerless man who
was 4 first in war, and first in peace,' and then we may be bold to stand by
the saying without further qualification.” The locality, if we look back to
Feb. 5,1725, might well be commemorated by some token of the regards of
a free people. The old mansion has been permitted to go to decay ; none
of the family name or blood has taken any interest in the perpetuation of
its remembrance; but events are suggestive, and the spot will be subject of
eager inquiry.
4 See pp. 173, 174.
6 The court-house and jail.
8 We never recognize the name of this young sachem, without the mind
reverting involuntarily to the courteous reception he gave to Capt. Stand-ANNALS OF BAENSTABLE.
253
the township, is approached from either of the preceding settle-
ments, by passing through forests of oak and pine, and adjoins
West Yarmouth.1 It is about six miles from the court-house,
and is, of late years, the most thrifty and improving part of the
town ; its important harbor being safe in all winds, greatly aided
by a breakwater constructed at the national expense, and hav-
ing good depth of water. Here is a terminus of the Cape Cod
railroad, connecting with stages running on the south side of the
Cape, and with a steamboat plying regularly to and from Nan-
tucket. The machine-shop of the railroad company, as also va-
rious minor manufactures, the shipping-trade, etc., give employ-
ment to many hands, and impart to the village the appearance
of no inconsiderable business.2 The village is pleasantly com-
pact. Baptist,3 Methodist, Universalist, and Congregational
meeting-houses, a Masonic Hall, hotel, and printing establish-
ment, from which issues “ The Atlantic Messenger,” and many
pleasant private dwellings meet tlie eye.
Hyannis Port is south of the last-named settlement.
Osterville,4 the Indian Catocheset, being in part an almost
continuous settlement on the road leading from Hyannis to
Marston’s Mills, with dottings of villas south from the main road,
and in other directions, has some pleasant residences, Baptist,
Methodist, and Universalist houses for worship, etc.5
Marston’s Miles, the Indian Mistic, with which the last-de-
scribed settlement connects, on the road to Marshpee, has a
Methodist meeting-house, and is a thrifty and pleasant village
ish and his party of ten men, in 1621, when they came from Plymouth in
a shallop, in quest of a boy that had been lost in the woods. See Yol. I.
96-99, and 110. The Sachem’s grave, it is said, is known.
1 See p. 175.
3 Packet lines projected here have for a long time been established in
connection with Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and other
southern ports, — the vessels of large burthens, fast-sailing, and generally
beautiful models. Numbers of vessels engage in the fisheries; and con-
nected with the business are several extensive packing establishments.
The increase of population has been considerable within the last twenty
or thirty years.
3	The Baptist denomination here is of early date.
4	A modern name, without derivation or meaning, unless indicative of
the repugnance of its inhabitants to rejoice longer in the former appella-
tion suggestive of the luscious bivalve once found in abundance in its
neighboring waters. “ Oyster Island ” was a name very naturally sug-
gested, and “ Oyster Island Village” followed naturally as the designation,
for a long while, of the contiguous main; but “ Catocheset,” long familiar
to the aged it were well to have retained.
6 The navigation here is chiefly employed in coasting, carrying wood, |tc.254
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Cotuit, proper, the Indian Coatuite, or Satuite, more ancient
than populous or compact, situate inland between Marston’s
Mills and the Marshpee line, is chiefly a farming district, and has
been the seat of some of the early and best families in the town-
ship. Here is a Congregational meeting-house.
Cotuit Port, lying directly south of the former, and occupy-
ing a position at the mouth of the river, is more densely settled.
For many years, its wharves have been the scene of some activ-
ity ; and of late years the village has extended and improved.
The surrounding scenery is unique and picturesque, and has in-
vited hither those whose summer residences are permanent. A
large hotel, Methodist and Universalist places for public worship,
and many private dwellings, with the usual appliances of stores,
etc., give to the place an air, which takes the stranger by sur-
prise.
Centreville, consisting of the ancient Chequaquet? occu-
pies, as its name implies, a central position as respects the other
divisions.1 2 The village has been greatly enlarged and improved
within the last half-century, and presents a compact and pleasing
aspect. It contains some fine private residences, a Congrega-
tional meeting-house, etc., and is a place of much enterprise.3
Progress of the Town. That Thomas Lumbert
was “ allowed to keep victualing, or an ordinary, for
the entertainment of strangers, and to draw wines in
Barnstable” in 1639, indicates progress. The first
town-meeting of which mention is made, was had' in
relation to the division of lands. An order was made
“ that no inhabitant within this plantation shall make
sale of his house or any of his lands until he has
offered the same to the proprietors; and, in case the
plantation buy it notj then he shall provide a pur-
1	Sometimes written Cheekwaquet, sometimes Weequaket.
2	The name has truly the advantage of appropriateness; but we submit
whether the Indian name retained were not better. There are numerous
Centrevilles, more than a score are the designation of post-offices, in at
least 15 different States. There is now no Chequaquet, although the name
is euphonious, and of historical interest.
8 Coasting and trading vessels ply from this place, whose trips are princi-
pally to Hartford, New York, Albany, etc. Here, as at Cotuit Port, Os-
terville, Hy.annis, and Barnstable, ship-building has been carried on, and in
lesser extent continues.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
255
chaser whom the town shall approve; and, if the
town do not provide a chapman in two months, he
may then sell it to whom he will”1 Mr. John Mayo
was admitted townsman, March 3, 1640 ; and the per-
sons who appear to have been inhabitants the same
year, are as follows: —
Thomas Allyn,
Anthony Annable,
Nathaniel Bacon,
Austin Bearse,
William Bills,
Abraham Blush,
Henry Bourne,
John Bursley,
John Casley,
William Casley,
Henry Cobb,
Henry Coggen,
John Cooper,
Henry Coxwell,
John Crocker,
William Crocker,
James Cudworth,
Dolor Davis,
Thomas Dimock,
Edward Fitzrandal,
Richard Foxwell,
Roger Goodspeed,
James Hamblin,
Thomas Hatch,
Samuel Hinckley,
Thomas Hinckley,
Thomas Huckins,
John Hull (or Hall),
Samuel Jackson,
George Lewis,
Laurence Lichfield,
Robert Linnet,
Bernard Lombard,
Thomas Lombard,
John Lothrop,
Thomas Lothrop,
John Mayo,
Samuel Mayo,
Isaac Robinson,
Henry Rowley,
John Scudder,
Thomas Shave,
Robert Shelley,
John Smith,
Isaac Wells.
The next town-meeting of which we find any rec-
ord is in 1641, in relation to the laying out of lands.
Mr. Thomas Lothrop and Bernard Lombard were ap-
pointed “ measurers of land,” and authorized a to lay
out all the lands that the several inhabitants are to
have laid out, and to bound them with stakes.” They
were to have for this service Id. per acre for upland,
and 2d. per acre for salt marshes. It was further
ordered “ that the parties whose land is to be laid out,
shall accompany ” the surveyors.
Accessions were had, — a number of families re-
moving to town, some from Scituate, some from Lynn,
1 The records of the first laying out of lands are not to be fou |d. It is
said by Amos Otis Esq., that “ tradition ” tells “ they were carried to Ply-
mouth, and there lost by fire.” He says, “ The house-lots contained from 6
to 12 acres, and were all laid out on the north side of Rendezvous Lane.”256
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Sandwich, and Plymouth. Church discipline, so often
in requisition in early times, and the call for which it
is often difficult, at this remote period, to define with
accuracy, seems to have been administered this year
upon Rev. Mr. Hull1 and William Casley,2 severally.
In 1642, the inhabitants were required by the Ply-
mouth government to assist in providing against ex-
pected Indian hostilities.3
In 1643, June 7, Mr. Hatherly, Mr. Freeman, and
Capt. Standish were appointed by the court “ to divide
to each man the lands at Barnstable, reserving a por-
tion for public use;”4 * and the town subsequently
“ ordered that the commons, or undivided lands shall
belong to the present inhabitants, and to whom they
shall think fit; ” further, “ that the commons be en-
tailed to the house-lots.”6 The records recognize, at
1 It is difficult to determine what was precisely the ecclesiastical posi-
tion of this gentleman at Barnstable.' According to Mr. Lothrop’s diary,
“ May 1, 1641,” possibly 1642, “ Mr. Hull was excommunicated for breaking
communion with us, and joining himself with a company at Yarmouth, to
be their pastor, contrary to the advice of a council of our church.” A
warrant for his “ arrest if he do either exercise the ministry or administer
the seals,” was ordered by the court at Plymouth, May 7, 1643, as has been
seen, Vol. I. 172. Again, Mr. L. says, “Aug. 10,1643. Mr. Hull acknowl-
edged his sin, and was again received.” Moreover his wife seems to have
had experience of the same stern discipline. “ March 11,1642-3. Our sis-
ter Hull renewed her covenant, renouncing her joining at Yarmouth and
confessing her evil in so doing, with sorrow.” Mr. Savage alludes to the
final career of Mr. Hull, saying, “ It is necessary to follow the poor man to
Maine, where, no long time before his death, Nov. 19, 1665, he had been
preaching at the Isle of Shoals, as his widow, Agnes, showed in her inven-
tory, ‘ the Isle owes him for his ministry £20; ’ and the sum of inventory,
the above included, is only £52.5.5, of which £10 is put down for books**
See also, Felt. 1, 498.
*Mr. Casley is reported a man of prominence, with considerable legal
knowledge, often employed in drawing conveyances, etc. Besides the
principal offence charged against him, he is accused of being “ much given
to idleness and jeering, as also somewhat proud.” But, touching his excom-
munication we are told that he “ took it patiently.”
8 See Vol. I. 167, 169.
4 See Vol. I. 168.
6 By general consent, all lands within the plantation were to be divided
by the following rule: “ One-third part to every house-lot equally; one-third
to the number of names that are immovable, —i. €., to such as are married,
or of 25 years age ; and the other third according to men’s estates.”ANNALS 07 BARNSTABLK
m
this time, forty-five voters. Those liable to bear arms
are nearly identical with the list of voters in 1640, as
before given, the only difference being the additions
of the names of Richard Berry, Thomas Blossom, John
Blower, Thomas Boreman, Francis Crocker, John Da-
vis, Nicholas Davis, Henry Ewell,1 John Foxwell, David
Linnet, James Lothrop, Benjamin Lothrop, Samuel
Lothrop, Nathaniel Mayo, William Pearse, John Rus-
sel, Nicholas Sympkins, and William Tilley; and the
omission of the names of Henry Coxwell and Isaac
Robinson.
In 1644, the inhabitants, desirous of enlarging their
1 Mr. Ewell was early here, a cordwainer by trade; from Sandwich,
Kent county, Eng.; a soldier in the Pequot war, 1637 ; he m. Sarah An-
nable, dr. Anthony, Nov. 28, 1638, in Scituate. Issue: John, bap. in Be.
1640; Eben. bap. 1643; Sarah, bap. 1645. Soon after, he returned to
Scituate and had Hannah 1649; Gershom 1650; Abia 1653; Ichabod
1659; Deborah 1663; and Eunice. His house in S. was burned by In-
dians in 1676. I^s will is dated 1681. Several of those who took part in
the Pequot war, settled on the Cape. We are here reminded of an item
which has just appeared in the Mass. Hist. Coll. Vol. XLVI, 105: Hugh
Peters writes to John Winthrop, “ Salem, 6th Sept. 1640. One mayne
occasion of my writing at this time is in behalf of Mr. Paddy, this bearer,
who earnestly desires some course may be taken for what is due from
the country to his father, Freeman, for his Armes they had in the Pekot
service, for which hee might have had 401. and now desires but 151. of the
country, to bee payd as they please for species. Good sir, let him have re-
liefe by what meanes you can, synce you know the case and this present
Governor [Dudley] doth not.” Mr. Peters, it will be understood, was the
noted minister of Salem, who, after having been licensed by the Bishop of
London, preached in that city with great popularity, but finally, on account
of his non-conformity, went into Holland, and afterwards arrived, with
Rev. Richard Mather, in America, in 1635. Mr. P. took great interest in
mercantile and civil affairs, and was appointed by the General Court of
Massachusetts, 1641, to visit England to procure some alterations in the
laws of excise and trade. Remaining in England, he supported, during
the civil wars, the cause of the Parliament, and contributed much to it by
his preaching; in fact, Burnet says, u He pressed the king’s condemnation
with the rudeness of an inquisitor ” — a charge, however, which he denied.
But, acting under Cromwell, he was tried, after the restoration, for con-
spiring with the usurper, and was executed, Oct. 16, 1660, aged 61. His
daughter m. John Winthrop. The interest made with Mr. W. in behalf of
Mr. Paddy, the treasurer of the Plymouth colony, who m. a dr. of Mr. Ed-
mund Freeman, of Sandwich, is natural; but the debt seems never to
have been paid. Mr. F. probably remitted it; for Lewis, Hist. Lynn, says,
“ Mr. F. presented to the colony 20 corsletts, or pieces of plate armor; ”
which were doubtless the “ arms ” to which Mr. Peters refers.
VOL. ii.	33258
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
settlement, a purchase was made from the Indians.1
No one was allowed to purchase land of the natives
on private account. There was evidently no meeting-
house, or place for public worship, as yet erected by
the town; for, in the pastor’s diary is this entry:
“ March 24, 1644, our meeting being at the end of
Mr. Bursley’s house.”
In 1645, this town furnished its quota for the Nara-
ganset expedition.
In 1646, it was, doubtless, with thankful heart, that
Mr. Lothrop was enabled to add to his diary, “June 1,
being the second Sabbath of our meeting in our new
meeting-house.”
In 1647, was made “ the second purchase” of lands
from the Indians, the town having commissioned Mr.
Thomas Dimock and Mr. Isaac Robinson to make an
agreement, and conclude fully and absolutely with
Nepoyetum, Indian, for the land which be owneth.”2
1 The deed of what is usually denominated “ the first purchase,” is as
follows: “Aug. 26, 1644. These presents witness that I, Serunk, Indian,
now dwelling at South Sea, do sell and make over unto the town of Barn-
stable, all the sd. lands and meadows lying betwixt the bounds of Sand-
wich and the bounds of Prexit and other Indians, in consideration of
four coats and three axes,
day and year above written.
“Anthony Annable,
“Henry Cobb,
“Thomas Allen,
“John Smith,
“Laurence Willis,
“Thos. Dimock,
In witness, I have hereunto set my hand the
“ The mark of Serunk.
Witnesses”
Mr. Palfrey remarks that although “ the Indians sold their land for what
seems to us a very small consideration, it implies no overreaching on the
part of the purchasers. The Indian resigned not the permanent occupa-
tion of the soil; for this, from his idle and roving habits, he never enjoyed,
and did not care for.” All the Indian wanted, was, he adds, “ simply the
privilege of taking fish and game, now at this spot, now at that, within the
limits of the tract conveyed.”	*
2 “ These presents witness a full and absolute agreement between said
Thos. DimocK and Isaac Robinson in behalf of said town of Barnstable, on
one part; and that Nepoyetum, on the other part, rests himself fully satis-
fied for said lands, for and in consideration of their making for him three-
score rods of fence on the range of the General Field fence which goethANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
259
It was ordered that all the hogs kept near the town
shall be yoked.
In 1648, Feb. 1, a committee was appointed to agree
with Paupmunnuck, sachem of the So. Sea Indians; and
haying attended to the duty, an agreement was made,
Feb. 7, and subsequently ratified, being “the third
purchase”1
March 16, Rev. Mr. Lothrop notes a Fast held, u principally
for Old England, requested by Sir Thomas Fairfax and the par-
liament, in regard to many fears of the Presbyterians, with many
others, to raise up new wars in the land, and, notwithstanding
all their troubles, much pride and excess abounding, with an un-
to Stoney Cove near unto a certain parcel of ground which the said Nepoye-
tum possesseth, and two coats, and one day’s ploughing in breaking up
ground: already in hand paid. In witness whereof they have hereunto set
their hands respectively.
The mark -f- of Nepoyetum.
Wit., Thomas Hinckley,	Thomas Dimock.
Mark -j- of Tauonius, Indian.	Isaac Robinson.
1 “May 17, 1648, an agreement was made between Paupmunnuck, with
the consent of his brother and all the rest of his associates, on the one
part; and Capt. Miles Standish, of Plymouth, in behalf of the inhabitants
of Barnstable, on the other part, viz: That the said Paupmunnuck, with his
brother and associates, hath with their full consent, freely, fully, and abso-
lutely sold unto the said Capt. M. S., all the land on the S. side, from the
bounds of Marshpee, eastward, to Oyster River, in behalf and for the use
of the inhabitants of Barnstable, all his and their rights and interest in
all his and their lands, &c. facing upon the S. Sea, butting home to Iyan-
no’s land eastward, and to Nepoyetom’s and Seagumuek’s land northward,
excepting 30 acres retained for himself, his brother and associates: for and
in consideration of 2 brass-kettles and one bu. of Indian corn, also one-half
part of so much fence as will inclose 30 acres: And he and his associates
shall have free liberty to hunt on the lands, provided they give notice to
the said inhabitants before they set any traps, &c., and carefully to watch
all their traps every day — if not they shall pay all damages to any man’s
cattle. In witness of all and singular of the premises thereof, they have
hereunto set their hands the day and year above written.
Miles Standish.
Witness, Thomas Hinckley.
The mark of -j- Paupmunnuck.
“ Difficulties having arisen in regard to the bounds of the above grant,
and in the making of the fence, the Indians dgreed with Henry Cobb and
Isaac Robinson to free the town from making the fence and from the 1 bu.
of com, and in consideration were to receive one great brass kettle seven
spans in wideness round about, and one broad hoe; and as the bounds were
not fully described, Paupmunnuck acknowledges the bounds to be westward
as far as half way to Sechonesset town, the place where the Indians now
inhabit, and reaching across over the sea and taking in a part of Nope
Island where the plantation now'is.”HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
framed spirit^ to humbly themsjelvqsf by praying and seeking uptp
God.”
May 4, Mr. Lothrop says, “Patience, the wife of Henry Cobb,
was the first buried in our new burying-place by our meeting-
bpuse.”1
Nov. 5, a day of humiliation was kept by the church, “prin-
cipally for Old England; and also for pur own particulars—God’s
hand being on us, many of us being visited with diseases, and
many children in the Bay dying by the chincough and small-
pox.
Ip 1649, June 16, Mr. Henry Coggin, of this town, died in
England, whither he had gone on a trading voyage.2 It was this
year, “Ordered that a general fence be made from the pond near
Thomas Hinckley’s to Stoney Cove. Mr. Allyn shall begin his
space of fence at Stoney Cove, and so every man in order as his
land lyeth.”
In 1650, April 22, Mr. Thomas Blossom,3 of this town, and
Mr. Samuel Hallet, were drowned at Nauset.
1 Burials, it is said, had before been made, “ on the lower side of ‘ the
calves pasture’ lot.”
8 Mr. Coggin who had m. Abigail Bishop, had issue: Abigail 1637, who
ip. John French 1659; Thos. 1640; John 1643; Mary 1645; and Henry
1646. The widow m. 2d, John Finney July 9, 1650. John, the son, de-
clared the only heir of his father June 7, 1659, the other children being d.,
m. Mary Long of Charlestown Dec. 24, 1664, and had Henry and John.
* The Blossoms of this and the adjoining towns are descended from Dea.
Tups. Blossom, the pilgrim from Leyden, who, baffled in 1620 by the
unseaworthiness of the Speedwell, came over in 1629, and d. 1632, a dea-
con of the Plymouth church. His widow Anne having m. Henry Rowley
Oct. 17,1633, came to this town 1639, bringing her sons Thomas and Peter.
The former, Thomas, b. in Leyden, m. Sarah Ewer dr. Thos. deceased,
June 18, 1645. He left a dr. Sarah, and, it is thought a posthumous son
Peter. He was a mariner, and pursuing his avocation at the time of
t)ie disaster. Thos. Lothrop was father-in-law to his wife. Peter, the
brother of the above, m. Sarah Bodfish June 21, 1663, and d. about 1700,
a farmer. He had Mercy April 9, 1664, who d. early; Thomas Dec. 20,
1667 ; Sarah 1669, d. young; Joseph Dec. 10,1673; Thankful 1675, who m.
Joseph Fuller 1700; Mary 1678, who m. Shubael Howland Dec. 13, 1700 ;
and Jabez Feb* 16, 1680. Thomas, b. 1667, m. Fear Robinson of F.
Dec. 3, 1695, and had Peter Aug. 28, 1698; John Ap. 17, 1699; Sarah
Dec. 16, 1703, d. inf.; Elisa. 1705, who m. Israel Butler July 1, 1725; and
§arah July 30, 1709, who m. James Case of Lebanon, Ct. Sept. 23,1736.
Joseph, b. 1678, m. Mary Pynchon of Scit. June 17, 1696, who d. Ap. 6,
1706, and 2d, Mary. He had, besides several who d. inf., Joseph March 14,
1708-4; Mary Dec. 11, 1709, who m. Joseph Bates of Middleboro’ 1743 ;
apd Thankftd March 25, 1711, who m. Eben. Thomas Dec. 8,1736. Ja-
bez, b. 1680, m. Mercy Goodspeed Sept. 9, 1710, had Sylv. Jan. 20, 1713,
who set. in Bridg. and m. Charity Snell 1738; and prob. Jabez jr. who m.
Hannah Backhouse of S. May 17,1739; also, prob. Ruth, who m. SylvanusANNAlS OP BAlLsSfABtB.

In 1651, the ecclesiastical records show examples
of discipline towards those who, having been offered
in baptism by their parents, were called a the children
of the church.”1
An order was made, June 8, for recording the titles and
bounds of lands; and Dec. 22, that all lanes and inlets shall
have gates,— Calves’ Pasture gate to be made and maintained by
Thos. Hinckley; gate against Rendezvous Creek, by Thos. Lum-
bard Sr.; Thomas Davis, the gate at the inlet to his house; Nath’l
Bacon, Old Common Field gate; Joshua Lumbart, “ gate at
inlet against his house; and Henry Cobb, gate at the Indians’
lands.”
In 1652, Feb. 22, tt Martha Foxwell, dwelling with Goody Hull,
was summoned before the congregation in public, and dealt with,
for joining with her dame in beating the maid-servant of Samuel
Mayo; ” and May 30, David Linnell and Hannah Shelly, charged
with impure conduct, and confessing it before the congregation,
“ were both, by the sentence and joint consent of the church,
pronounced to be cut off from that relation which they had for-
merly to the church by virtue of their parents’ covenant.” They
were “for their faults,” also “punished with scourges by the sen-
tence of the magistracy,” the following June. The bounds be-
tween this town and Sandwich were adjusted; and Lt. Fuller,2
and Serg. Hinckley were appointed deputies on military affairs.
In 1653, Thomas Huckins was “ licensed to draw wines and
Barrows June 8, 1738. Peter, b. 1698, s. of Thos. m. Hannah Isum June
9, 1720, and had Seth Mar. 15,1721-2; who m. Sarah Churchill of S., Jan.
8, 1746-7, and 2d, Abigail Crocker Jan. 10, 1754, and had Churchill Oct.
15, 1749 ; David Jan. 12,1755 ; Peter Dec. 4,1756 ; Abigail May 10,1760;
Seth Dec. 4, 1763; Hannah Aug. 15, 1766 ; and Levi April 15, 1772 who
removed to Bridg. Joseph, b. 1703-4, s. of Joseph, m. Temp. Fuller
March 30, 1727, and had Lydia Mar. 19, 1729 whom. Matthias Fuller
1765 ; James Feb. 9, 1731; Sarah Oct. 14, 1734; and Mary Sept. 14,
1736. James, b. 1731, m. Bethia Smith Jan. 19, 1758, and had James
Feb. 3, 1760; Temp. 1761; Matthias Sept. 12, 1765; Lucretia Oct. 8,
ji 768: and Asenath Aug. 30, 1770.
1 The subject of baptism and its prerogatives was destined to become
prolific of polemic strife in all the churches. The Dorchester church, under
Rev. Rd. Mather, March 2, 1655, having taken action on the subject,—
defining the relation of baptized children to the church, and also voting an
extension of privilege, viz., that the children of such as hold to their fa-
ther’s covenant should be baptized; other churches dissented, and soon dis-
sensions exist on every hand, and a flood of pamphleteering ensues.
*In the war against the Dutch of New York, 1654, Lt. Matthias Fuller
was of the company of 60 men, under command of Capt. Standish.262
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
liquors to sell,” and Joseph Lothrop “to keep an ordinary.” The
Rev. John Lotheop died Nov. 8.1
We cannot record all the appointments for days
of fasting, etc.; but it may be mentioned, as involv-
ing a historical fact, that, March 30, 1654, a fast was
held by the church in this town, “for the preserva-
tion of God’s people in this land from the proposed
invasion of the Indians, especially the Narragansets,—
they being instigated thereto by the Dutch, even to
cut off all English; and also for our own country,
being at war with the Dutch.” Oct. 18, Secretary
Morton records “great divisions in the Barnstable
church, occasioned by one John Cook, an Anabap-
tist.”
After the decease of Mr. Lothrop, Mr. William Sar-
geant officiated for a time. The ten years succeeding
Mr. L’s decease was a period of much disquiet; and,
although there can hardly be a doubt that Mr. S. was
for a time the supply, it is equally clear that there
was little concord in the church.2 * Mr. Sargeant proba-
bly did not receive unanimous support; and there is,
at least, strong presumptive evidence that the people
1	See Yol. I. 208-9. Mr. Palfrey, in his excellent Centennial, pp. 9-12,
and 15, gives an interesting and affecting account of this distinguished
pastor, and the trials consequent upon non-conformity, which is worthy of
perusal. Morton describes Mr. Lothrop as “a man of an humble and
broken heart and spirit, lively in the dispensation of the word of God,
studious of peace, furnished with godly contentment, willing to spend and
be spent for the cause of the church of Christ.” Mr. L., 44 by will gave to
his wife one house in Barnstable; to his s. Thomas another; and to his sons
John, in England, and Benjamin, here, each a cow and £5; 4 drs. Jane and
Barbara having had their portion already/ To each of his other children
he gave a cow, and to each child ‘ one book, to be chosen according to their
ages; * the rest of his library to be 4 sold to any honest man who can tell
how to use it/ and the proceeds to be divided.”
2	The Plymouth church records gay, 44 Nov. 1654, the unhappy difficulties
that fell out in the church at Be. had such an ill influence on the church
at Plymouth that, together with the unsettledness of the church, and
the going away of divers of its members, yea, of the most eminent of
them, it was the means of the unsettlement of that holy man of God, Rev.
John Reynor, its pastor.”ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
263
were so divided in their views and preferences, and so
interrupted in their former harmonious course as to
become even separated in public worship.1 Rev. John
Smith is reported to have officiated for a while; but
the precise time of the service of this gentleman can-
not be ascertained.2
In 1655, notwithstanding the law prohibiting Indians from
owning horses, Keenecomsett was allowed one for his use in
husbandry. The town ordered “ that the present deputies from
this town, and such as may succeed them, shall have authority
to submit difficulties existing between the town and the Indians,
♦
1	That Mr. Sargeant was, about this time, in Barnstable, is clear; and
also that he was there as a religious teacher. In a deed, bearing date Jan.
31, 1655, O.S. from George Lewis to Samuel Mayo, son of Key. John, of
Barnstable, indorsed in 1656 by Mr. Mayo to John Phinney, and Oct.
1666 indorsed by said Phinney to Mr. William Sargeant, is conclusive evi-
dence of the facts above stated; “land,” says the last indorsement — as in
effect the original deed and the immediately-following indorsement declare,
— “ that was purchased by Henry Cobb, Thomas Huckins, etc. who some-
time since invited Mr. William Sargeant, to have the benefit of his labors
among them,” etc. Again, “ land that was conveyed to them for Mr. Wil-
liam Sargeant, and now confirmed to him.” Rev. Mr. S. was in Charles-
town 1638, and he and wife, Sarah, added to the church; he, March 10,
1639, and his wife the Sunday following. From 1648 to 1650 he doubtless
preached at Malden, and is mentioned in Johnson’s “ Wonder-working
Providences.” By his w. Sarah, he had John, bap. Dec. 8, 1639, at C.;
Ruth, bap. Oct. 25, 1642, who m. Jona. Winslow, of Marshfield, 2d.
Richard Bourne, of S. 1677, and 3d, John Chipman, of S.; and Samuel,
bap. March 3, 1645. His will, March 9, 1650, mentions drs. Hannah and
Elizabeth, the latter born in England. The records show that he d. Dec.
16, 1682, and his wid. Sarah, Jan. 12, 1688.
2	Mr. Smith, as has been seen, was finally located in Sandwich. Mr. Felt
has it that “ Mr. John Smith had officiated as a minister at Barnstable, but
that Thomas Hinckley, afterwards gov., and others, did not harmonize with
him, and therefore he left the pla‘ce, taking his dismission, and went to L.
Island, then to N. Jersey, and then came back to Sandwich, and settled as
pastor.”
The Anabaptist influence of Mr. Cook, mentioned by Morton, we have
no particular data concerning. It is a singular fact that whilst it has been
claimed that the “ primitive English Cong. Church still survives ” here, it
is also claimed that “ from its bosom proceeded the first Eng. Baptist Ch.;
so that it is entitled to the eminent rank of parent of the now very numer-
ous churches of that denom. both in Eng. and America.” See Palfrey’s
Centennial, pp. 9 and 11, who further says, “It was in Mr. Lothrop’s ch.
that the question respecting the authority for infant baptism was first moved
in England, and it was seceders from that church who laid the foundation
of this respectable communion.” He adds that during the five years that Mr.
L. remained in Scituate, “ the differences respecting the right of baptism,
which had divided his friends in Eng., manifested themselves also there.”
It were not strange, then, if Mr. Cook found sympathizers at this moment.264
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
as also the settling of the bounds of the Indians9 fends, to the
determination of Capt. Miles Standish and Mr. Hatkerly.”
In 1656, the difficulties which the church encoun-
tered were not peculiar to this locality.1
In 1657, among those who took the oath of fidelity was Mr.
Samuel Bacon.2
In 1658, May 15, the line between this town and Marshpee,
respecting which there had been some dispute, was settled; and
May 21, monuments were set up, u leaving the skirts of good
land about Cotuite, alias Sautuite Pond, to the plantation of In-
dians dwelling there, according to the desire of Mr. Richard
Bourne.” The settlement was by the agency of Messrs?. Alden
and Josias Winslow of Plymouth.8 June 5, the marshal for this
and adjoining towns was appointed; and, June 23, “ Holder and
Copeland were arrested on their way to Sandwich, brought to
this town and whipped; ” on the 29th they were “ taken back to
lSee Yol. I. 215, 216.
* The hereditary status of this gent, has been involved in as much doubt
as that of the families of the same name in Connecticut; all supposed to
have a community of origin. Mr. B. had a grant of land in this town in
1662, and has been thought a brother of Mr. Nathaniel and Elizabeth, who
were early here. Mr. Samuel Bacon m. Martha Foxwell, May 9, 1669,
and had Samuel March 9, 1669-70; and Martha 1671; but at what time
he came, or when or how the family disappeared from town, is a question
yet to be settled.
,	* “An agreement made, May 15, 1658, in the presence, and with the help
of Mr. John Alden and Capt. Josiah Winslow, appointed thereunto by the
court, touching a difference between the inhabitants of Barnstable and
Paupmunnucke, with the other Indians, his associates, about certain land
purchased of the sd. Indians, in former contracts bearing date, May 17,
1648, and Feb. 1,1648, viz.: That the sd. Paupmunnucke, Moash, Waum-
pum, and the rest of their associates have fully and absolutely resigned
up all the right, title, and claim which’ any or all of them have or can
make for themselves, or any others of their associates, in all and every
part of those lands expressed in any of the aforesaid contracts, excepting
the thirty acres excepted in the former contract bearing date, May 17,
1648, lying at a neck called Cotacheeset, and all the lands lying to the
westward of Satuite (or Coituit) River, and the westward of the north-
west line running from the easterly side of the next planting-field to
Coituite (or Sautuite) Pond, lying on the easterly side of the said river,
unto the bounds between Sandwich and Barnstable; unto the said inhab-
itants of Barnstable unto their proper use and behoof forever against any
claims by them or any other Indians whatsoever; also, it is agreed that
it shall be free, either for Indians or English to fetch such alewives for
their use as they shall take in the sd. river. The sd. Paupmunnucke and
his associates do also hereby acknowledge themselves fully p lid, quietly sat-
isfied and contented forever, without any further trouble, bidding of them-ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
265
S., and the next day sent out of the jurisdiction.”1 Dt. Mat-
thew Fuller was presented “for reproaching the court.” Elder
Thomas Dimock, who had been a pioneer in the settlement of
the town, and a prominent inhabitant, died.
In 1659, whilst Nicholas Davis of this town was being im-
prisoned in Boston, as one of the Quakers,2 and subsequently
banished — required not to appear again in the Massachusetts
colony on pain of death, — the Plymouth Court, June 7, saw fit
to enact that, “ Whereas some have desired, and others think it
meet to permit persons to frequent the Quaker meetings to en-
deavor to seduce them from the error of their ways ; the Court
considering the premises, do permit John Smith of Barnstable,
Isaac Robinson, John Chipman, and John Cook of Plymouth,
or any two of them, to attend the said meetings for the ends
selves to keep the former conditions about their setting traps, with all the
promises aforesaid. In witness thereof they have hereunto sett their hands.
The mark of Paupmunnucke.
The mark of -j- Moash.
The mark of -f- Waumpum.
Witness, John Alden,
Josias Winslow.
Charles is my name, Indian.
“ Mr. Richard Bourne, of Sandwich, was present when the line was set,
according to the desire of Mr. Alden and Capt. Winslow,” May 21, and
record of the same was made May 25.
1 Gen. Cudworth, formerly of this town, but now of Scituate, in a letter,
Dec. 10, 1658, after stating how, for two years, he had, as a magistrate,
opposed various transactions of government as to restrictions and punish-
ments for religious offences, and that since the persecutions of the Quak-
ers he had opposed with firm resistance, observes that he and Mr. Hath-
erly were left out of office at the last election, for pursuing that course and
that for the same cause he lost his captaincy. He adds, “ New Plymouth
saddle is on the Bay Horse, [meaning Boston]; we shall follow them on
the career. Our Civil Powers are so exercised in things pertaining to
the kingdom of Christ in matters of religion and conscience, that we have
no time to effect anything that tends to the promotion of the civil weal;
but now must have a State religion, a State ministry, a State way of main-
tenance. We must all go to the public place of meeting, or be presented.
I am informed of 60 or 80, last court, presented for not coming to meet-
ings; which was done by the revival of what is called 4 Thomas Hinck-
ley’s law/ ” The next year, for this letter, Mr. C. was denied his seat as
deputy, and the year following was disfranchised, “ being found an opposer
of the law and a friend to the Quakers.”
* The name Quakers, it is doubtless understood by every one, was not of
their own choosing. Roger Williams says it was given in 1650, in England,
44 from that strange and uncouth possessing of their bodies with quaking and
shaking even in public assemblies.” But George Fox says, “ Because we
bade the magistrates and their company tremble at the word of God.”
VOL. II.	34266
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
aforesaid at any time betwixt this court and the next Octobc r
court.” The experiment, it will be perceived, was not attended
with desired success*. At the October Court it was enacted,
“ Forasmuch as the Quakers have had by them many papers and
writings that are false, scandalous, and pernicious to the govern-
ment,” the marshal, Barlow, shall search the houses of the Sus-
pected in Sandwich, also of Nicholas Davis of Barnstable, for
such papers. The bounds between Yarmouth and this town
were defined, “from StoneyCove Creek, from the middle there-
of, due N. to the sea.”
At this time, the attention of enterprising citizens
began to be turned to the purchase of lands in Sacones-
set;1 and in 1660, Iyannough’s lands were sought.2
March 7, the Court at Plymouth find occasion to ques-
tion the orthodoxy of Mr. Isaac Robinson;3 an in-
quiry was instituted and judgment deferred. On the
6th of June he was pronounced “a manifest opposer
to the laws,” and as such was disfranchised.4 Mr
John Bursley died this year.5 6 *
In 1661, it was “ordered that William Crocker and Thomsi
Huckins have power to take notice of such as intrude themselves
into the town without the town’s consent, and prevent their re-
siding here.” Thos. Huckins and John Chipman were appoint-
ed to run the line between this town and Sandwich. And Aug.
10, Nicholas Davis received permission from the Plymouth Court
to visit this town and settle his affairs, he being imprisoned at
Boston under sentence of banishment.
In 1662, Feb. 22, a committee was appointed “to purchase
1 Yol. I. p. 237, 239, 240.	2 Vol. I. p. 239.	8 Yol. I. p. 240.
4 Mr. Felt remarks, “ Mr. Robinson being appointed last year to en-
deavor the conversion of the Quakers, the reverse occurred; he turned
to their faith.” Much abatement must be made for exaggerated allega-
tions in times of warm excitement. Those who, after the lapse of two
centuries, pronounce upon the sentiments or acts of men whose history is
patent, should be charitable, for they have no excuse for improper impu-
tations.
6 Mr. Bursley was early here, in company with Messrs. Hull and Dimoc.
He m. Joanna Hull, dr. Rev. Mr. Hull, Nov. 28, 1639 : Issue, besides those
who d. inf. Mary 1643, who m. John Crocker April 25, 1663, 2d w.; Jo-
anna 1646, who m. Dea. Shubael Dimoc 1662; Elisa. 1649, who m. Nath’l
Goodspeed 1666, and 2d, Increase Clapp 1675; John 1652; and Temper,
who m. Joseph Crocker 1677. The wid. m. 2d Dolor Davis.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
267
Yanno’s lands,” and it was “ordered that Thomas Hinckley,
Bernard Lombard, Tristram Hull, and Thos. Lothrop be empow-
ered to attend the coming of Mr. Alden and Maj. Winslow
about the grant of our enlargement at the South Sea, and to
make progression for them, and act with them as the matter may
require, and the town bear the charges thereof. Also to make
the best plea they can in any controversy that may arise between
the Indians and this town.” The line between Yarmouth and
this town was run by Bernard Lumbart.
We get some view of ecclesiastical difficulties, in a
result of council 66 convened here the previous Sep-
tember, at the request of the assistants and the de-
serted brethren” The result was not promulgated
until June 4, the present year, and is signed by
Henry Flint,1 Thomas Thacher,2 Jonathan Mitch-
ell,3 John Miller,4 Samuel-------,5 Samuel Arnold,6 John
Bradford, Anthony Thacher, Thomas Prence, William
Morton, and Thomas Southworth. The occasion was
the secession of John Smith and others from the Barnsta-
ble church, forming themselves into a separate and
distinct church. The advice of the Council is thus ex-
pressed : —
“We do conceive that so disorderly and scandalous a separa-
tion and schism, so long and obstinately, after the use of so many
means, persisted in, calleth on neighboring churches to bear their
testimony against it, and do their duty to the persons aforesaid
so offending, by renouncing communion with them while they
continue in that way, and by declaring them incapable of regu-
lar church communion among themselves. It is the duty both
of neighboring churches and each Christian that hath been of
their society, to withdraw from them, and therefore neither may
other churches regularly hold communion with them, nor they
among themselves. Finally, we conceive that if this advice be
read in neighboring churches, and their consent be taken to the
1 Doubtless the minister of Braintree.	55 Minister	of	Weymouth.
8 Minister of Cambridge.	4 Minister	of Yarmouth.
* Prob. Newman, minister of Rehoboth.	• Minister	of Marshfield.268
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
substance thereof, it may be an expedient Way of declaring the
aforesaid non-communion.”
Thus was this new church virtually excommuni-
cated.
It was ordered, in town-meeting, October 3, “ that
the sons of all the present inhabitants shall succes-
sively be received inhabitants and allowed equal town
privileges in the Commons, and such other privileges
as belong to the present inhabitants as a township, at
the day of their marriage, or at the age of 24, which-
ever shall happen first.” The following persons were
thereupon admitted: —
Samuel Bacon,	Samuel Fuller,	Caleb Lnmbard,
Joseph Benjamin,	Samuel Fuller Jr.,	Jabez Lumbard,
Nicholas Bonham, James Hamblin, Thomas Lumbard,
James Cobb,	Samuel Hicks,	Samuel Norman,
Edward Coleman,	John Howland,	John Sargeant,
John Crocker,	Edward Lewis,	Daniel Stewart.
Thomas Ewer,	John Lewis,
The whole number of voters in town at this time was 65.
In 1663, a committee united with the Sandwich committee in
setting up the bounds between Sandwich and this town.
Rev. Thomas Walley, who came over from England
last year, was now the recognized minister of Barnsta-
ble. In May, it was voted to give Mr. Walley six
acres of upland in the commons near him. He was
also admitted as inhabitant, July 19.1 Mr. Thomas
Lombard died.
In 1664, it was “ ordered that the lands between the
long pond, called the South Sea Pond, and the lands
at the shoal pond, that are not disposed of, shall lie for
commons for the town’s cattle.” The “fourth pur-
chase,” of the Indians, was confirmed this year,2 and
• See Vol. I. 248, 249.
2 “ These presents witness, That I, Yanno, sachem, have freely and abso-
lutely bargained and sold unto Thomas Hinckley, Nathaniel Bacon, andANNALS OF BABNSTABLE.
269
is entered upon the records as u Land bought by the
town, of Yanno, Indian.”1 Mr. Thomas Walley Jr.
and Mr. Wright were licensed to retail liquors. Mr.
George Lewis died.
Tristram Hull, in behalf and for the use of the town of Barnstable, all that
tract of land lying and being at the South Sea, in the precinct of Barnsta-
ble:— bounded easterly by the bounds of Yarmouth; northerly by the
lands bought of Nepoyetum, and westerly by the lands bought of Paupmun-
nucke, excepting the skirts of good land at the head of the Cove, and what
he hath already given to Nicholas Davis, a trader from Rhode Island, in
consideration of £20 and two small pair of breeches, to me in hand paid by
Tristram Hull, wherewith he, the said Yanno, rests himself fully satisfied
and paid for those lands, with warrantees against any Indians whatever
laying any lawful claims thereunto. This 19th July, 1664.
The mark of Yanno.
Witness, Sam’l Walley Jr.
The mark of Indian Will.
figg5* “ It was agreed by the town that Nicholas Davis shall quietly enjoy
the lands which Yanno has given him on or about Sam’s Neck.”
'It may not be convenient herein to give all the deeds, or extracts from
the same, relating to purchases, whether of Indians or others. We will*
however, remark, before dismissing the subject, that the next, called the
“fifth purchase,” and made 1680, consisted of lands bought of John Yanno,
of Gay Head, at Nope Island, the eldest son of Yanno, sachem of South
Sea. This land was bounded northerly, westerly, and easterly by the
lands which the agents of the town bought in 1644, and is understood to
be the lands now including Centreville, from the sea to Hamblin’s Plains.
The purchase was made by Thomas Hinckley, as agent for the town, and
the deed signed
In the presence of John Yanno -j- his mark and © seal.
Joseph Glover, Thos. Hinckley Jr., and
Joseph Mallock, Interpreter.
These purchases and deeds, with some subsequent minor arrangements,
cover the entire territory of the town; and i*■ has been claimed that “ all
was fairly bought of the different original owners, and that payment was
made to their entire satisfaction.” We are not at all disposed to contro-
vert this position, especially as relates to this ancient and respectable town.
It has been averred that “ in none of these transactions is discoverable any
fraud or deception on the part of the first settlers.” This, too, we might
reasonably expect; and we flatter ourself that the men engaged were inca-
pable of any act of moral turpitude. It has been added that “ all the bar-
gains and the value of the considerations were well understood by the
Indians.” This also may be correct. Still, as these asseverations have been
multiplied, coming from every quarter of New England’s domain, many
have been startled, and succeeding generations will continue to be affected
with some surprise, at the apparent supposed necessity of always entering a
caveat against the possibility of a contrary impression. See Yol. I. 258.
If the Indians were fairly and humanely dealt with anywhere, it certainly
was on Cape Cod, where almost the only remnants of them in the State
now exist. We apprehend there are few who read the histories of early
times, that are not led to pause and ponder one subject as presenting at
best a moot point, when they find so much pains taken by earlier and later
%270
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1665, the commissioners in behalf of the Crown proposed
that “the King’s arms be set up in every court of justice.”1 Se-
lectmen were now to be appointed in every town.
In 1666, “John Quason, sachem of Monimoiet,” having laid
claim to lands that had been sold to the town by Nepoyetum, an
agreement was made with him, Oct. 11, and witnessed by “ Sa-
chemus, of Saquetucket, and Francis, sagamore of Nausit.” “It
afterwards appearing that said Quason was a usurper, having no
right to the lands, they belonging to Aquaunetva, alias Sarah,
daughter of Nepoyetum, with the exception of a few acres
claimed by Kenecompsit, an Indian of Mattakeese, which he
had sold at different times to the town, Quason was ejected.”
Other Indians claimed other tracts, which were also purchased.
“The small-pox being in town, the church set apart Dec. 26, to
seek the Lord by fasting and prayer.”
In 1668, Mr. Richard Shelley and Mr. John Crocker died.
In 1669, in Rev. Mr. Walley’s sermon from Jer. 8:
22 (see Yol. I. 290), preached in June, before the Gen-
eral Court, are intimations of the civil and ecclesiasti-
cal conditions of the times.1
In 1670, April 14, Mr. Henry Cobb and Mr. John Chipman
were invested with the office of ruling elders, and Mr. William
writers to impress the idea set forth by Dr. Holmes in his Annals: “It is a
consoling fact that our ancestors purchased of the natives their lands for an
equivalent consideration, as appears by a letter from the pious Gov. Wins-
low, dated at Marshfield, May 1, 1676, as follows: ‘I think I can clearly
say that before the present troubles broke out between us and the Indians,
the English did not possess one foot of land in the colony but was fairly
obtained by honest purchase of the Indian proprietors. We first made a
law that none should purchase or receive a gift of any land of any of the
Indians without the knowledge of our Court. And, lest they should be
straitened, we ordered that Mount Hope, Pocasset, and several other necks
of the best lands in the colony, because most suitable and convenient for
them, should never be bought out of their hands.’ ”
1 The sermon, entitled “ Balm of Gilead to heal Zion’s wounds; or, a
treatise wherein there is a clear discovery of the most prevailing sicknesses
in N. England, both in the civil and ecclesiastical State, as also suitable
remedies for the cure of them,” mentions “the lethargy of Christians, the
burning fever or fires of contention in towns and churches, evil spirits of
oppression, covetousness and cruelty, error and delusion, envy and jeal-
ousy, pride in heart and manners.” Mr. W. is said to have disapproved of
the severity that had been exercised toward the Quakers. “ The Magna-
lia observes, — The whole people of God throughout the colony were too
much distinguished into such as favor the old church and such as favored
the new; the former against the Synod, the latter for it,”— baptism and the
half-way covenant.ANNALS OP BARNSTABLE.
271
Crocker with that of deacon. May 28, the number of freemen
and voters recorded was 89; and it was “ ordered that all the
commons’ meadow as yet undisposed of within the limits of the
township, from time to time, shall perpetually be and lie for
commons to, and for the common use of, the present inhabitants,
whose names are recorded, and to the sons of all the aforemen-
tioned inhabitants successively, as they shall grow qualified
according to the former order bearing date Oct. 8, 166*2, and to
the successors of such inhabitants aforesaid, who purchase and
buy out the whole right of such respective inhabitants.” Na-
thaniel Fitzrandal was u fined 42s. for refusing to pay half the sum
for the ministry in this town ; and Robert Harper was whipped
at the post for censuring Mr. Walley.” Mr. John Bursley died
Feb. 23. The record of inhabitants is, with titles, as follows: —
Samuel Allyn,
Mr. Thos. Allyn,
Anthony Annable,
Samuel Annable,
Mr. Nath’l Bacon,
Nath’l Bacon Jr.,
Austin Bearse,
Abraham Blish,
Peter Blossom,
Henry Bourne,
Mr. John Bursley,
Wm. Caseley,
Mr. Jno. Chipman,
Jas. Claghorn,
Edw’d Coleman,
Mr. Henry Cobb,
James Cobb,
John Cooper,
Job Crocker,
John Crocker,
Josiah Crocker,
Wm. Crocker,
Dolor Davis,
John Davis,
Nicholas Davis,
Robert Davis,
Mr. Thos. Dexter,
Wm. Dexter,
Shubael Dimoc,
Nath’l Fitzrandle,
John Fuller,
Capt. Matth. Fuller,
Sam’l Fuller Sr.,
Sam. Fuller, s. Capt.,
Sam. Fuller, s. Sam’l,
Jno. Goodspeed,
Nath’l Goodspeed,
Roger Goodspeed,
Mr. Jno. Gorham,
Joseph Hallet,
Bartw. Hamblin,
Jas. Hamblin,
Jas. Hamblin Sr.,
Jas. Hamblin Jr.,
Jno. Hinckley,
Mr. Thos. Hinckley,
Sam’l Hinckley,
Jno. Howland,
Jno. Huckins,
Thos. Huckins,
Jno. Jenkins,
Ralph Jones,
Edw’d Lewis,
Geo. Lewis,
James Lewis,
John Lewis,
Thos. Lewis,
Widow Lewis,
Barnabas Lothrop,
Lt. Joseph Lothrop,
Melh. Lothrop,
Thomas Lothrop,
Mrs. Widow Lothrop^
Benj. Lumbard,
Mr. Bern’d Lumbard,
Caleb Lumbard,
Jabez Lumbard,
Jed’h Lumbard,
Joshua Lumbard Sr.,
Thos. Lumbard,
Widow Lumbard,
David Lynn el,
Sam’i Norman,
John Otis,
Robert Parker,
John Phinney Sr.,
John Phinney Jr.,
Mark Ridley,
Moses Rowley,
Mr. Wm. Sargeant,
John Scudder,272
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Thos. Shave,	Edw’d Taylor,	Wm. Troop,
Rob’t Shelley,	Henry Taylor,	Mr. Thos.Walley Sr.,
Sam’l Storrs,	Jno. Thompson,	Isaac Wells.
In 1672, Seekunk relinquished his claim to Scorton.
In 1673, Mr. Isaac Robinson was restored to the right of a
freeman. Mr. Nathaniel Bacon, Assistant, died this year;
also, Mr. Dolob Davis.
In 1674, Mr. Anthony Annable died.1 “Thomas
Huckins laid down three acres of land at the meet-
ing-house for the town’s use as a burying-ground.”
This ground is about 1 m. W. of the present E. meet-
ing-house, and here also, was, near the ancient meet-
ing-house, the site selected early for Rev. Mr. Loth-
rop’s parsonage.
In 1675, the period of the outbreak of Philip’s war,
Samuel Child was killed at Rehoboth, March 26, and
Lt. Fuller, John Lewis, Eleazer Cobb, Samuel Linnet,
and Sam’l Boreman, all fell in the same battle.2 Capt.
1	Mr. Ann able; came over 1623, with wife Jane and dr. Sarah. His w.
d. in 1643, and he m. 2d, Anne Clark March 3, 1644-5. Mr. A. was much
in public life, and many years a deputy. His children were Sarah born in
Eng. who m. Henry Ewell of Scit. Nov. 22,1638 ; Hannah, b. in Plymouth
1625, who m. Thos. Boreman of Be. March 10<T644-5; Susannah ab’t 1630,
who m. Wm. Hatch jr. of Scit. May 13, 1652; a dr. 1635 d. inf.; Deborah
1637 ; Samuel 1646 ; Ezekiel 1649 d.y.; Desire 1653, who m. John Barker
Esq. Jan. 18, 1G 76—*7. Samuel m. Mehi't. Allyn, dr. Thomas, June 1,
1667, and d. 1678. His wid. m. Cornelius Briggs of Scit. May 6, 1683.
Samuel had Samuel July 14, 1669 ; Hannah 1672 d. inf.; John July
19, 1673 ; Annie March 4, 1675-6, who married Dea. John Barker Oct.
14, 1696. Samuel, b. 1669, m. Patience Dogget Ap. 11, 1695, and had
Desire Jan. 3, 1695 ; Anna Sept, 27, 1697, who m. Nath’l Bacon Aug.
19, 1720; Jane Dec. 24, 1699, yho m. Dea. Robt. Davis Oct. 8, 1719;
Samuel Jan. 14, 1702; Patience May 15, 1705, who m. Joseph Bacon
1722 ; Thomas June 21, 1708, who m. Ann Gorham Aug. 7, 1740. He d.
June 21 1744 ; his wid. d. Oct. 11,1760, aged 90. John, b. 1673, m. Exp.
Taylor, dr. Edw., June 16, 1692, and had Samuel Sept. 3, 1693; Mehit.
Sept. 28, 1695, who m. And, Hallet July 23, 1713; John Ap. 1697 d. inf.;
John May 3, 1698, who set. in Roch.; Mary 1701, who m. David Hallet
Aug. 19, 1720; Cornelius Nov. 3, 1704, and Abigail Ap. 30, 1710, who m.
Walley Crocker Oct. 22, 1730.
2	These were of the company of Capt. Pierce. Nearly the entire force
of 63 Eng. and 20 friendly Indians were cut off near Pawtucket. The
company were decoyed by the wily foe into ambush and surrounded by 500
Indians. They fought heroically, but with the exception of 8 Eng. and 10
Indians, were all slain. See Vol. I. p. 282.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
273
John Gorham, who commanded a company, died before
the close of the war.1 Of the part which this town
took in the memorable contest, but little appears on
the records; but, as is well known, it performed its full
share of the toil and risk.
The town “bought, Oct. 13, of Kenecompsit, Indian, who
claimed the same, a small tract of land lying and being in Barn-
stable, at the South Sea, near the Yarmouth line ; and the land
of Nicholas Davis on the west, at South Sea, for £5 current
pay.” “Indian Ned of Saquetucket also relinquished all his right
and title to all and every part of said tracts of land lying in
Barnstable.” The same year a committee of four was chosen
“ with power to buy any and all other pieces of land to which
said Kenecompsit had lawful claim, to lie as Commons at the
South Sea.” Jt was also “ ordered that a rate be made of about
£5 10s.; also to pay Thomas Hinckley £3 13s. and Kenecomp-
sit or his order, £1 10s.”
The invitation extended by the four Cape towns,
through their deputation, to the towns most exposed in
other parts of the colony, is found, so far as relates
to this town, only on other records; the answers re-
ceived are among the manuscripts of Gov. Hinckley
in the library of the Mass. Hist Soc.
In 1677, “Monohoo, Indian, sold to Thomas Walley, minister of
the Gospel, about three-score acres of land,—all that tract lying
upon the neck called Quanaumet, which he had of Akemoiet,
sachem of Suckenusset, for 10 yards of trucking cloth, 10s. in
money, 1 iron-kettle, 2 knives, and a bass-hook.” Barnabas
1\The Plymouth Court made a grant of 100 acres of that beautiful tract
called Papasquash Neck, near Bristol, R. I. to the heirs of Capt. Gorham,
“ forasmuch as he hath performed good service for the country in the late
war.” Mr. Gorham, first of the name in this town, was b. in Benefield,
Northamptonshire, and was in Plymouth in 1643. He m. Desire Howland,
dr. of John, 1643, by whom he had Desire Ap. 2, 1644 at Plymouth, who
m. Sam’l Hinckley Oct. 7,1661; Tempe. May 5,1646 at Marshfield; Eliza.
April 2, 1648; James April 28, 1650; John Feb. 20,1651; Joseph Feb. 16,
1653 at Yarmouth; Jabez Aug. 3, 1656 at Be., who was wounded in Phil,
war and was early set. in Bristol; Mercy Jan. 20, 1658-9, who m. 2d, Geo.
Denison; Lydia Nov. 11, 1661, who m. John Thacher, his 2d w., Jan. 2,
1633-4; Hannah Nov. 28, 1663; and Shubael Oct. 21, 1667. He d. Felx.
5, 1676 at Swansey; his w. d. Oct. 13, 1683.
VOL. II.	35274
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Lothrcp was licensed to sell liquors; and the aged widow Anna-
ble was fined £1 for selling beer without license.
In 1678, March 24, Rev. Thomas Wallet died, aged
62 51 Mr. John Huckins and Mr. Samuel Annable also
died this year. Mr. Peter Thacher was invited to the
ministry here, but gave a negative answer.
In 1679, Elder Henry Cobb died;2 * * * * * 8 also Mr. Thomas
Huckins.
In 1680, Sept. 7, “John Yanno, Indian of Gay Head at Nope
Island, eldest son and heir of Yanno, sachem of South Sea in
Barnstable, deceased,” claiming “ a small tract of land lying in
the common-field at Mattachiest,” sold the same to Geo. Lewis
for £2 16s.; also, Sept. 27, “ in consideration of £1 8s. paid in
trucking cloth and otherwise by Thomas Hinckley, granted and
sold to him all his lands at the South Sea in Barnstable.” Mr.
II. conveyed the same Oct. 10 to the town. Mr. Thomas Allyn®
and Mr. Robert Parker both died this year.
1	Rev. Mr. Walley was mentioned by his contemporaries as a man of
talents, learning, and piety. The records of the Barnstable church are,
however, his best encomiast. See Yol. I. p. 290-3.
2	Elder Cobb was of Plymouth 1632, next year in Scit., and here 1639.
He was several years deputy, and, April 14, 1670, ruling elder. He m.
Patience Hurst, dr. James, 1631, who d. 1648, and 2d, Sarah Hinckley, dr.
of Samuel, Dec. 12,1649. Issue: John June 7, 1632, who lived in Taun-
ton and Plymouth; James Jan. 14, 1634 ; Mary March 24, 1637, who m.
Josiah Dunham, his 2d w.; Hannah Oct. 5,1639, who m. Edw. Lewis May
9, 1661; Patience 1642, who m. Rt. Parker 1667 ; Gershom Jan. 10,1644-
5, who went to Middleboro’; Eleazer March 30,1648 : Mehit* Sept. 1,1652,
d. inf.; Sam’l Oct 12, 1654; Sarah Jan. 15, 1658 d. inf.; Jonathan Ap. 10,
1660; Sarah March 10, 1662-3, who m. Dea. Sam’l Chipman Dec. 27,
1686 ; Henry, Sept. 3, 1665 ; Mehit. Feb. 15, 1667 ; and Experience Sept.
11, 1671. Henry, b. 1665, m. Lois Hallet Ap. 10, 1690, and had Gideon
Ap. 11, 1691; Eunice Sept. 18, 1693 ; Lois March 2, 1696 ; and Nathan
1700. He then removed to Connecticut.
8 Mr.Thomas Allyn, early settler and large landholder, for some years
constable, etc. was twice m. Issue: Sam’l Feb. 10, 1643-4; John 1646;
and Mehit. 1648, who m. Sam’l Annable Jan. 1, 1667, and 2d, Cornelius
Briggs of Scit. May 6, 1683. The will was proved March 5, 1679-80. Lt.
Samuel, b. 1644, was some time town clerk, and m. Hannah Walley, dr.
of Rev. Thomas, May 10, 1664, and d. Nov. 25, 1726, aged 82. Issue:
Thomas Mar. 26, 1654-5; Samuel Jan. 19, 1666 ; Joseph April 7, 1671;
Hannah Mar. 4, 1672-3, who m. Peter Jacob of Hing. Dec. 7, 1693 ; and
Eliza. Nov. 26, 1681, d. y. John, b. 1646, m. Mary Howland, dr. John,
and had John April 3, 1674; Mary Aug. 5, 1675, d. inf.; Martha Aug. 6,
1677, d. inf.; and Isaac Nov. 8, 1679. Thomas, b. 1655 m. Elisa. Otis, dr.
John, Oct. 9, 1688, and had James, Thomas, and Hannah. He d. Nov.
25, 1696, and his wid. m. David Loring of Hing. Samuel, b. 1666, m.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
275
In 1681, May 18, a “new meeting-house was erect-
ed.” The lot cost £1.10; the cost of the edifice was
£100.1 In December, Samuel Crocker, son of Dea,
William, died, aged 39, killed by a kick in the abdo-
men, inflicted by Indian James. Said Indian, being
indicted and tried, was acquitted of murderous intent
In 1683, it was “ordered that the widow of the
late minister have and enjoy that land and swamp
near her land at Stoney Cove.” “James Hamblin con-
sented to a way across his land in the Calves’ Pasture,
to the beach and creek.” The Indian, Kenecompsit,
still claimed some part of the town first settled; and
relinquished to John Lewis and James Edwards seven
acres in the common fields for £5.19. The town had
now been five years without a settled minister, and
called the Rev. Jonathan Russell,2 son of the Rev.
John Russell, of Hadley, who was ordained September
Sarah Taylor, dr. Edw., Dec. 20,1705 and had Samuel Nov. 26,1706. He
d. the Dec. following, aged 39, and his wid. m. Dea. Samuel Bacon Jan. 26,
1708. The Barnstable Allyns are chiefly from James, the s. of Thomas
and Elisa., who m. Susannah Lewis, dr. Eben. July 24, 1712, and had
Elisa. 1713, who m. Col. John Gorham 1732, and went to Portland ; Susan,
1715, who m. Capt. Jona. Davis Jr. 1735 ; Anna 1718, who m. John Davis
Jr. 1736; Thomas 1719, who m. Elisa. Sturgis 1752; Hannah 1721, whom.
Dr. Abner Hersey 1743 ; Rebecca 1723, who m. Rev. Josiah Crocker 1742;
Abigail 1725; Mary 1727, who m. Nymphas Marston Esq. 1751; James 1729;
Sarah 1730, who m. Justin Hubbard of Hing. 1755 ; Martha 1733 d. y.; and
Olive 1735, whom. Capt. Sam’l Sturgis Jr. 1754. The father d. Oct. 8,
1741, aged 50. Thomas, s. of Thomas and Elizabeth, had Polly, Hannah,
Susan, Sam’l. James, b. 1729, m. Lydia Marston 1752, and had James,
Benj., Marston, Thomas, Nymphas, and John, who grad. H. C. 1775, and
was the minister at Duxbury.
1	This building, erected in part by money “ obtained from the sale of Mt.
Hope,” was deserted after the division of the church. It stood “ at the top
of the hill, on the corner of John Phinney’s lot, west of the pond.”
2	The sermon was preached by the Rev. Joshua Moody, of Portsmouth,
the father-in-law of Mr. R., and the charge was given by the venerable
father of the pastor elect. How the. pulpit was supplied the several years
preceding the settlement of Mr. Russell and following the decease of Mr.
Walley, we are not fully informed; but a letter from Rev. John Cotton,
of Plymouth, to Gov. Hinckley, in 1678, shows that Rev. John Bowles,
subsequently in Dedham and Roxbury, and in 1690, speaker of the House
of Reps., was some time officiating in this town, and that his settlement
here was contemplated. The letter also indicates the paramount influence
of Gov. H. Mr. C. writes: “ Worshipful and much honored Friend: This276
HISTORY OF BABNSTABLE COUNTY.
19. Mr. Henry Bourne died this year;1 also Dea.
Cooper, “ one of the original settlers, and a good man,
passed away.”2 Mr. Abraham Bush also died, Sep-
tember 7.3
In 1684, action was had on “ the legacy to the church, by Mr.
last week came such uncomfortable tidings from Barnstable hither, that I
knew not how to satisfy myself without troubling you with a few lines; I
hope not proceeding from a principle inclining to meddle, but from a sin-
cere desire of the best good of that people who are, God knows, very de-
servedly dear to me. It does indeed appear strange with men wiser than
myself, that such discouragements should attend Mr. Bowles. . . . Your
place, I fear, will be so blemished thereby as that you will find it more diffi-
cult to obtain a minister next year than this. I need tell you, worthy sir,
that it is a dying time with preachers, young as well as old, and it is very
manifest there is a great likelihood of scarcity of ministers ; and, if I may
without offence whisper it in your ear, I dare say Mr. M. is far below Mr.
B. for learning and abilities ; . . that you are too heavy, and weigh down
the whole town, as is said, I freely say, that without doubt, you may law-
fully do it in all cases generally, — but I could upon my bended knees
humbly beg of you, worthy sir, that you would not only permit, but coun-
tenance, as much as you can, with a safe conscience, a vote of your people
for Mr. B., who are much more satisfied with him, hearing how honest an
answer was sent from him to them at the return of the messenger. . . If
upon such toys as these Mr. B. should go without a renewed invitation from
the people, I doubt it would too deeply reflect upon their reputation, and
prove a great bar to future success in motions of such a nature; and, good
sir, [humbly again and again begging pardon of you for my boldness with
you], if you should appear slow to promote a call for Mr. B. out of a secret
hope and desire to obtain yet more suitable [at least for yourself], I verily
fear you would find yourself uncomfortably disappointed. Were it not
much more desirable to wait upon God, under his ministry, and follow
the throne of Grace with earnest prayer that this man may be fitted to do
all that which, it may be, you rather expect in another V . . I rest, Sir,
your worship’s servant in Christ,	John Cotton.”
“ To Gov. Hinckley, at his house in Be.”
1	Mr. Bourne came to this town from Scit.; was a large land-holder,
and left property to the Barnstable church. Whether he was in any way
connected with Mr. Richard Bourne of Sandwich is questionable. Vari-
ous are the conjectures; but very little is certainly known of him, his pedi-
gree, or family. By his w. Sarah he had a dr. May 7, 1641, d. inf.; and
Boreas Aug. 1649, who prob. d. early.
2	Dea. John Cooper, m. Priscilla, wid. Wm. Wright, and dr. Alex.
Carpenter of Leyden, Nov. 27, 1634. No issue. He was constable, 1640,
z and deputy, 1642-1643. He gave, by will, one-half his estate to the Barn-
stable church. He was bro.-in-law to Sec. Morton; and his wid. was dis.
to the ch. at Plymouth, 1683, and d. Dec. 29, 1689, aged 91.
3	Mr. Blish, generally written Blush, was here in 1641. His 1st wife,
Anne, d. 1653 ; his 2d w. Hannah Barker, wid. of John, and dr. of John
Williams, of Scit. d. 1658; and he m. 3d, Alice Derby, wid. of John, of Y.
Jan. 4, 1658-9. Issue: Sarah Dec. 2, 1641; Joseph April 1, 1648 ; and
Abraham Oct. 16, 1654, who was one of the founders of Brattle St. Church
Boston, 1698.ANNALS OF BARNSTABL3.
277
Henry Bourne, lately deceased.” July 13, Mr. Job Crocker was
ordained deacon. George Hinckley, Mr. Barnabas Lothrop, Jer-
emiah Bacon, and Samuel Allyn agreed to build a substantial
windmill within twelve months.
In 1685, it was “ voted that the Governor and Mr. Lothrop
impanel a jury to bound the county road and the town’s high-
ways, according to the order of court in that case provided.”
The road “ running from the bounds of Sandwich for the most
part easterly to the bounds of Yarmouth,” being crossed by
creeks often difficult to be passed in the absence of bridges, was,
to avoid the least practicable fords, constructed about one mile
south of Scorton Hill, where, at an early period, were temporary
facilities for foot-passengers only, — known as Bursley’s or
Hinckley’s bridges, — enlargements were made of sufficient
strength and width for carriages and teams.1 The jury on
whom devolved this duty were John Phinney, Capt. Lothrop,
James Cobb, Job Crocker, Lt. Howland, Sam’l Cobb, Sam’l
Hinckley Jr., Ens. Dimock, Nath’l Bacon, Joseph Blish, James
Gorham, Ens. Lumbert, Josiah Crocker, Jabez Luinoert, Lt. Jas.
Lewis, and James Hamlin Jr.
In 1686, the licensing of Lt. John Howland “ to retail cider
of his own making,” shows that orchards were already in good
progress.
In 1687, the town “ ordered that a windmill be built, either
on Cobb’s Hill, or the old meeting-house hill;^ and appropriated
for the purpose “£32 and five acres of upland and as much
marsh.” Barnabas Lothrop and Samuel Allen were “ appointed
to see the work done at the town’s charge.” To John Andrews
W’as “ granted eight or ten acres of upland at the river by John
Goodspeed’s, and the benefit of the stream, to build and keep a
fulling-mill on said stream, — to full and dress the town’s cloth
upon reasonable terms.” The windmill, for the grinding of
grain, was constructed by Thomas Paine, of Eastham, to the
satisfaction of all concerned. Samuel Baker was admitted in-
habitant this year, May 12.2
1 The first road, after leaving Sandwich, south of Scorton Hill, ran south
of Honey Bottom, near the old meeting-house in the West Parish and
through the woods on the south side of the pond, into the present road,—
thus avoiding the creeks. The new road being constructed, avenues were
soon opened from the county road to different parts of the township.
* See Annals of Yarmouth, p. 203. Mr. B. was s. of Rev. Nicholas
Baker, who was ordained the minister of Scit. 1660, and d. Aug. 22,
1678, aged 67. It is generally admitted that the reverend gent, was ac-278
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1688, John Gorham, Jabea Lumbard, Thomas Paine, and
Nathaniel Bacon were appointed “to lay out such lands or marsh
as the town shall order;” and to Rev. Jonathan Russell was
“ laid out a little island of thatch on the east side of the mouth
of Broad Sound.”
In 1689, the same jury that laid out the county road “laid out
a high-way, 40 feet wide, into the woods on the opposite side of
the Dimock house; also, a high-way into the Common’s field.”
The town granted to Samuel Allen, Ensign Shubael Dinmock,
Samuel Hinckley Sr., John Otis, Nathaniel Bacon, Jeremiah
Bacon, Thomas Huckins, Melatiah Lothrop, John Goodspeed,
Joseph Crocker, and Elisha Paine, eight or ten acres at Good-
speed’s River, and the benefit of the stream forever, on condition
companied from Eng. by a bro. Nath’l, and that both were at Hing. 1635;
but there appears nothing certain to prove the relationship of these with
Francis, who set. early in Yarmouth. There are, however, reasons for
supposing them brothers. Rev. Mr. B. was grad. St. John’s Coll. Camb.
Eng. 1631-2. At Scituate he was successful in allaying a sad feud that had
long existed, and his ministry has been much commended. Cotton Mather
calls him “ honest Nicholas Baker, of Scituate,” and says, “ he was so good
logician that he could offer up to God a reasonable service, so good arith-
metician that he could wisely number his days, and so good orator that he
persuaded himself to be a Christian.” His 1st w. d. in 1661, and his 2d w.
Grace survived him and came to Barnstable. She d. here Jan. 22, 1696-7.
Of his children we know only such as he mentioned in his will, viz.: Sam-
uel; Nicholas; Mary, who m. Stephen Yinal, Feb. 26, 1662; Elisa., who
m. John Yinal 1664; Sarah, who m. Josiah Litchfield ; and Deborah, who
m. Israel Chittenden 1678. Samuel came here from Hull, where his
father was a land-holder, and where himself was admitted freeman, 1677.
The year of his acceptance here, both he and his wife were admitted to
the church on letters dismissory from the church at Hull. His wife
was Fear, dr. of Isaac Robinson. With them came sons John and Na-
thaniel, and probably drs. Mary, who m. Adam Jones Oct. 26, 1699, and
Grace, who m. Israel Luce, Dec. 16, 1701. Mr. Robinson, at the close
of life resided some time with his daughter Fear, as did also Grace, the
mother of the above Sam’l Baker. These circumstances — the death
of the aged widow of the old clergyman occurring here—probably gave
rise to the impression that she was none other than the mother of Isaac
Robinson, and the widow of the venerable Leyden pastor. Dea. John, s.
of Sam’l, m. Anna Annable Oct. 14, 1696. Issue: Anna Sept. 8, 1697,
who m. Sam’l Lombard, and d. May 19, 1747; Mercy Aug. 18, 1699, who
m. Benj. Lothrop April 20, 1720, and went to Ct.; John June 14,1701, d.
inf.; Rebecca Sept. 8, 1704; Sam’l Sept. 7, 1706; Mary March 25, 1710,
who m. Lemuel Hedge 1733; Mehit. May 7, 1712, who m. Eben. Crosby,
Jan. 10, 1734; Abigail Feb. 1, 1713-14, who m. Ichabod Lothrop, of Tol-
land, Ct. Nov. 9,1732; John Dec. 1, 1716, who m. Mercy Carey, of Wind-
ham, Ct. Dec. 7, 1744; and Hannah March 24, 1718. The mother of
these d. March 21, 1732-3, after which the father removed to Ct. His son
Samuel, b. 1706, m. Prudence Jenkins May 30, 1732, and had Martha
Jan 24, 1732-3; Anna May 12, 1735; Bethia June 12, 1737 ; Sam’l Sept.
30, 1740; and Mercy May 30, 1743; and all removed to Ct.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
279
“ that they set up a fulling-mill on that river, and maintain the
same twenty years, and full and dress the town’s cloth on rea-
sonable terms.” Numbers having been admitted townsmen, it
was “ voted that the Common’s meadows be divided to them to
whom of right it doth belong;” also, “that Lt. Lewis and
Nath’l Bacon have all the thatch or goosegrass on the flats below
the beach, between Huckin’s creek and Stoney-cove creek, pro-
vided they build a Pound for the town’s use, and keep it in repair,
and no longer.” In 1690, Mr. James Hamlin died. Thomas
Massy had lands granted him as keeper of the fulling-mill.
In 1691, it was voted to sell certain parcels of land
of town’s commons, to raise £40 or £50, in money, to
defray the charges of sending to England to obtain a
Colony Charter. A large committee was chosen for the
purpose; the lands were sold to the highest bidders;
but the amount realized proving insufficient, other
parcels were sold soon after. The part which the
Cape towns had in public affairs, we have already sug-
gested, is to be learned more from scattered memorials
elsewhere than from records of their own. Lt Col.
Gorham, for instance, soon now began to be prominent
before the public, by reason of the expedition against
Canada; and yet no mention of him or his achieve-
ments is made here. Content to serve their country’s
cause when needed, and to retire to the quiet of prof-
itable industry when their public work is done, the
people seem to have thought little of perpetuating
their deeds. Doct. John Fuller died this year. Mr.
Nath’l Bacon 2d also died Dec. 31, aged 46.
In 1692, Eleazer Crocker was cbosen land-measurer in the
place of Nath’l Bacon, deceased. It was voted “that the inhab-
itants have liberty to purchase lands of any Indians who have
rightful claims in the Common field.” An Indian, calling him-
self Black Daniel, appeared and sold his claim. Lands in the
common meadows were again set off to settlers.
At the time of the annexation of Plymouth to the
Massachusetts Colony, this year, Thomas Hinckley, of280
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
this town, was Governor of the former. Although
“he did not escape the charge of undue pliancy” for
consenting to take office under the administration of
Andros; and although he was thought by some to
have been too favorable to the plan of annexation, it is
evident that he was earnest in his representations to
the throne, and in endeavors to procure a separate
charter. The honesty of his plea, as that also of his
fellow-townsmen, Thomas Walley and Barnabas Loth-
rop, who also were of the Council, that by accepting
the office they might be enabled better to exert an
influence in staying the arbitrary proceedings of An-
dros, cannot now be questioned, whatever may be
thought of the policy. Deacon William Crocker died
this year.
In 1693, it was voted “to divide the whole commons meadows
to such as have a rightThe names of rightful proprietors were
presented, in all 164 persons, who were freemen and voters.
Some 56 persons remonstrated against the proceeding. Mr.
John Casley died this year;1 also Mr. Robert Davis.2
In 1694, the remonstrants against the divisions of lands agreed
1The Casleys were in town early. See p. 255. John Casley m.
twice; 1st, Alice; 2d, Rebecca, who m. 2d, Sam’l Norman. The children,
as per probate ree., were John, Benj., and Sarah, who ra. Elisha Smith,
Ap. 20, 1719. John Jr. removed to Yarmouth. See p. 208. Benj. m.
Mary Godfrey Mar. 4, 1713-14. William, who was constable 1639, was
prob. a bro of the above John, and is said to have m. “ a sister of Rev.
Mr. Matthews, Nov. 28, 1639, in Sandwich.”
2 Mr. Robert Davis, see Yol. I. 578, was twice m. We have said his
children were by his sec. wife, Ann. The presumption now is that several
were by the first w. We are obliged also to conclude that his d. Mary m.
Dexter, and not Goodspeed. His eldest m. Thos. Greere, not Greene, as
misprinted; and the youngest was Mercy, not Mary. Mr. Deane is mista-
ken in supposing that Tristram was his son. Joseph, his son, see also ib.;
his dr. Mary m. Matthias Gorham 1730, not Davis. Josiah, 4th s. of Rt.,
b. 1656, m. Anne Taylor June 25,1679, and had John Sep. 2,1681; Han’h
1683, who m. Gershom Cobb Feb. 24, 1702-3; Josiah Aug., 1687, who
m. Mehit. Taylor July 10, 1712, and had two sons and a dr., the youngest
being Josiah, who m. Thankful Matthews 1745 and 2d, Thankful Gorham
1760, and went to Gorham, Me.; Seth 1692, who m. Lydia Davis; Ruth
1694, who m. John Scudder May 19, 1715; Sarah 1696, who m. Elisha
Taylor Oct. 24, 1718; Jonathan 1698; Stephe. Dec. 12; 1700, and
Anne 1702, who m. Theop. Withered 1724.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
281
to refer all matters in dispute. Major Mayhew, of the Vineyard,
was chosen, on their part, and Mr. Samuel Sprague, of Duxbury,
on the part of the town. A settlement of the whole difficulty
was effected Jan. 20, 1696. In 1695, Sergt. James Cobb died;1
also Mr. John Lothrop.
In 1696, a public road was laid out over Lt. Howland’s land,
from his house into the woods; and for the right of way two
acres of salt meadow were given. A piece of land, on which to
erect a warehouse, was voted to Mr. Otis, — the plat to be forty
feet square, and lying at Rendezvous Creek. The great marshes
were divided, lots being drawn for choice; and each lot was duly
bounded and recorded. The marshes at South Sea, and about
Oyster Island, were set off in like manner to persons living in
that part of the town.2 Mr. John Dunham died this year; also
Mr. Thomas Allyn, Nov. 21, aged 31. In 1698, March 19, Mr.
Samuel Hinckley died. In 1699, Feb. 2, Mr. Josiah Crocker
died, aged 51.3
1	Mr. James Cobb was s. of Eld. Henry Cobb. He m. Sarah Lewis
Dec. 26, 1663, and she m. 2d, Jonathan Sparrow. Issue of James and
Sarah: Mary Nov. 24, 1664, who m. Caleb Williamson May 31, 1687;
Sarah Jan. 26, 1666, who m. Benj. Hinckley Dec. 27, 1686; Patience
Jan. 12, 1688, who m. Jas. Coleman 1694, and 2d, Thos. Lombard 1715;
Hannah Mar. 28, 1671, who m. Jos. Davis 1695; James July 8, 1673;
Gershom Aug. 4, 1675; John Dec. 20, 1677; Elisa. Oct. 6, 1680; Mar-
tha Feb. 6, 1682; Mercy Ap. 9, 1685; and Thankful June 10, 1687.
James b. 1673, m. Elisa. Hallett Sept. 18, 1695 and had James who
set. in Truro, Sylvanus, Elisha, Jesse, Seth, Ebenezer, Judah, Nathan,
Stephen, and Elisa. Gershom, b. 1675, m. Han’h Davis Feb. 24,1702-3,
and had John, Sarah, Gershom, John, Hannah, Thankful, Anne, Josiah,
Edward, and Mary. Sylvanus, s. of James, b. Nov. 25, 1700, m. Mercy
Baker Nov. 7, 1728, and had a large family, in the line of which are Rev.
Sylvanus, and the prolific writer of tales. Elisha, b. Dec. 24, 1702, m. Mary
Harding, 1725. Jesse, b. Ap. 15, 1704, m. Thanklul Baker, 1734.
2	It is said by Mr. Otis that “ the South-sea men were, at this time, Thos.
Macy, John Goodspeed, Benj. Goodspeed, Ebenezer Goodspeed, John Lov-
ell, Jas. Lovell, Wm. Lovell, And. Lovell, John Issum, Thos. Bumpas, Dolor
Davis, Thos. Lewis, Joshua Lumbert, John Linnel, John Phinnej Jr., Edw.
Lewis, Jos. Lothrop Jr., John Lewis, and Edward Coleman; and that,
soon after, the Hallett, Crowell, Bearse, and Claghorn families appear
there.” We have not been careful to note exact localities of different per-
sons, in the first settlement of the town, but suppose the above is correct.
8 Mr. Josiah Crocker, who was ae 51, was son of Dea. Wm. and b. 1647.
He m. Melatiah Hinckley, dr. Gov. Thos., Oct. 23,1688, and she d. Feb.
2, 1714-15, aged 66. Issue: a son Aug. 20, 1669, d. inf.; Thos. May 27,
1671; Mercy Feb. 13, 1674, d. y.; Mary Sept. 10, 1677, who m. Wm.
Crocker 1705; Alice Dec. 25, 1679, who m. Geo. Lewis June 14, 1711 ;
Melatiah Nov. 20, 1681, who m. Timo. Crocker Oct. 27, 1729; Josiah
Feb. 8, 1684; Ebenezer May 30, 1687; Seth Sept. 23, 1689, who d. in
Harwich, without issue; and Benj. Sept. 26, 1692, who grad. II. C. 1713,282
HISTORY OP BARNSTABEE COUNTY.
In 1700, in pursuance of an order from Richard, Earl of Bella-
mont, directed to Capts. Gorham and Otis, to divide the militia
of the town into two companies, the said commissioners reported
to the commander-in-chief as follows: “We do order, agree, and
appoint, That beginning at Dea. Job Crocker’s, and, as the way
goeth, up to the head of Skonkenet River, and, as the river run-
neth into the South Sea, shall be the dividing line in the said
town ; the eastern part to belong to Capt. Gorham, the 1st foot
company in said Barnstable; and the western part to Capt. Otis,
the 2d foot company in said town.” Mr. Jabez Crocker died
this year.
In 1701, the commons-lands continued to be a subject of con-
tention. A town-meeting was held, and Rev. Mr. Russell was
chosen moderator. The following were questions debated :
“ Whether the bare admission of persons to be townsmen gives
them a right to the Commons under any circumstances? Whether
there be any rights of Commons that have not been already
divided ? Whether there be any right of Commons to per-
sonal estate ? Whether there be any right of Commons to
house-lots as such? Whether any respect shall be paid to the
numbers of male children in each family? and, Whether the
right of Commons heretofore granted to any, doth extend to his
and their heirs and successors.” A committee was then chosen
“ to draw up proposals for settling the propriety of the Common
lands, and to ascertain who are the proprietors, and what the
share of each shall be, and the method best to be adopted for di-
viding the lands from time to time in future.” Maj. Gorham and
14 others were of this committee.
In 1702, the undivided lands were still a subject of absorbing
interest; and it was agreed in town-meeting that disinterested
and set. in Ipswich. Eleazer bro. of the above, b. 1650, m. Ruth Chip-
man, dr. Eld. John, Ap. 7, 1682, who d. Ap. 8,1698; and 2d, Mercy Phin-
ney Jan. 25, 1716-17. Issue: Benoni May 13, 1682, d. 1701; Bethia
Sept. 23, 1683, who m. John Whiton Mar. 13, 1710; Nathan Ap. 27,
1685; Daniel Mar. 23, 1686-7, d. 1723, without issue; Sarah Mar. 23,
1689, who m. Jos. Bursley, Nov. 7, 1712; Theophilus Mar. 11, 1691;
Eleazer Aug. 3, 1693; Ruth, twin to Eleazer, who m. Sam’l Fuller 1718;
Abel June 15, 1695, some time of Plympton; Rebecca Dec. 10, 1697,
who m. Robbins; and Mercy, by 2d m. Nathan, s. of Eleazer, b. 1685,
m. Joanna Bursley Mar. 10, 1708-9. Issue: Jabez June 20, 1709, who
m. Deliv. Jones, Mary Baker, and Remember Fuller; Benoni Feb. 24,
1711-12, who m. Abigail Bursley, dr. Jno.; Nathan Mar. 7, 1713-14, who
m. Mehitable Crocker, dr. Ebenezer; Isaac May 6, 1719, who m. I lisa.
Fuller; John Jan. 11, 1721-2, who was in the Cape Breton expedition;
and Temp. Oct. 3, 1724, who m. Joseph Annable.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
283
persons be chosen to determine who are the rightful proprietors.
Capt. Jonathan Morey of Plymouth, Mr. Sam’l Knowles of East-
ham, and Mr. Joseph Dean of--------, were agreed upon; and Rev.
Mr. Russell was authorized to write to them, requesting their at-
tendance in this town, May 12. A committee was appointed “to
take account, in the meanwhile, of the townsmen and of their
several claims by their individual qualifications; this to be ac-
cording to the rule adopted in 1640.” It was at the same time
resolved, “ that 80 acres of land be reserved, the profits of which
shall be toward the support of a school or schools in town; and
80 acres for the support of the ministry,— these to remain per-
petually for the aforesaid purposes.1 ” The grand division finally
made, was “ of upland commons and salt marsh that had not been
before divided.” The whole of these were computed in shares,
comprehending in the aggregate 6,000 acres,— divided to each
according to his right, the number of shares to each annexed to
his name on the schedule; leaving to any aggrieved the liberty
of the common law for redress. This division was made in 1703.
In 1704, Lt.-Col. Gorham is mentioned in history as “com-
manding the whale-boats in the expedition under Col. Church
against the French and the eastern Indians,” as he had done 14
years before in the expedition against Canada, under Sir William
Phipps.2 Mr. Isaac Robinson died this year.
In 1705, Mr. Edward Taylor died.
In 1706, the decease of Gov. Hinckley, at the ad-
vanced age of 88, occurred at his mansion about 2 m.
W. of the court-house. His career, though greatly-
distinguished, had not been without its vicissitudes
and vexations. That he was a man of great energy
of purpose is proverbial; and, perhaps it is admit-
ted by all that he was not so remarkable for con-
1 These, respectively known as “ the school lot,” on the S. side of the
town, and the “ ministerial lot,” on the N. side, need no further description.
These lots were hired out for 10 years, for the uses to which they were
devoted.
* Mr. Palfrey remarks, “ This command of Cape whale-boats, which, in
the want of a better marine, seem to have been relied on in those times as
a formidable force, appears to have been a kind of heir-loom in the family;
as, in 1745, at the capture of Louisburg, another Gorham commanded the
squadron of whale-boats which, in an attack upon the ‘island-battery ’ so
called, did the only hard-fighting which occurred in the course of that molt
memorable enterprise.”284
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
ciliation as his pastor, Rev. Mr. Walley. He certainly
could be sufficiently prompt, urgent, coercive, when,
as he thought, occasion required.1 It has been said by
his contemporaries that his second wife, to whom he
was united more than 40 years, “ possessed a character
excellently suited to correct the occasional impetuosity
of his own; ” an intimation, at least, that he had this
strong point of character. Gov. Hinckley’s tribute to
the memory of his wife, written at the age of 85,
shows that he fully appreciated her worth, breathing
as it does the tenderest affection, if “ not the most
tuneful spirit of song.”2 Mr. Jeremiah Bacon died this
year, aged 49; and Dea. Samuel Allyn, aged 39. Mr.
Samuel Chipman and Mr. Richard Childs were or-
dained deacons.
In 1707, liberty was given to Paul Humphrey and his son,
James Richards, Isaac Wampum, Joseph Peter and his son,
Indians, to dwell on Oyster Island at South Sea. “ Division hav-
ing been made of all uplands, meadows, and Sandy Neck, except
such portions as were reserved to be divided at a future time;
and the shares of each being bounded, marks were set up between
them.” All was done in accordance with the ancient rule.
For the support of the poor £60 was raised. Mr. Otis and
Mr. Bourne were appointed to consider an address from the Gen-
eral Court respecting the state of the treasury. Their report was
accepted ; and it was “ resolved to make every effort to supply
the demand of the Court.” Fines were imposed on several per-
sons for non-compliance with the town order requiring each male
inhabitant to kill a certain number of blackbirds.
In 1708, Elder John Chipman, formerly of this town, died in
Sandwich. Oct. 10, nineteen persons received a dismission from
the church here, to gather a church in Falmouth. In 1709, Mr.
John Hinckley died, and in 1710, Mr. George Lewis.
In 1711, Mr. John Crocker died, aged 74 ;3 also,
1	It is said by Mr. Palfrey, “ He came into the Board of Assistants, on
the ground of the strong part which he took against the Quakers; super-
seding Cudworth, who was for dealing with them more leniently.”
2	See notice of Gov. II. and family, Yol. I. p. 343.
8 Mr. John Crocker, b. 1637, was eldest s. of De^. Wm. See Yol. I.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
285
three months preceding him, Feb. 2, “the learned,
pious, faithful, and successful pastor of the church,
Rev. Jonathan Russell Sr., aged 56.1 After his de-
cease, the question of a division of the town into two
distinct parishes began to be moved, not without
strong opposition. In 1712, April 9, “A separate meet-
ing was set up; ” and difficulties growing out of differ-
ences of opinion touching the pt’icy of two distinct
parishes, existed for several years. To the pastorate
succeeded the son of the former minister, Rev. Jona-
than Russell Jr., who was called May 1, and ordained
Oct. 29; salary, £80, settlement, £200. Rev. Mr.
Treat gave the charge, Rev. Mr. Stone the right hand
of fellowship. The settlement of Mr. R., it was stipu-
lated, was to be “ no obstruction ” to the plans of di-
vision. Mr. Melatiah Lothrop died this year. In 1713,
Lt. James Lewis died, aged 82.2
562-3, 646. It should have been there mentioned that Dea. Wm. had a
2d w. Patience Parker, wid. of Rob’t, and dr. of Elder Hy. Cobb. John
came with his parents from Scit. 1639, m. Mary Bodfish 1659, who d. 1662,
and 2d Mary Bursley April 25, 1663. Issue: Eiisa. Oct. 7, 1660, who m.
Dea. Rd. Child 1678; Jona. July 15, 1662; John Feb. 17, 1663-4; Han-
nah Oct. 10, 1665, who m. Sami Lothrop July 1, 1686; Joseph March 1,
1667-8; Benj. who d. inf.; Nathl 1673; Experience 1674, who d. April
17, 1740-1; Jabez, who d. 1700; Mary, who m. John Bursley Jr. Feb.
11, 1702; Abigail, died early; and Bathshua, who d. y.
1	Rev. Mr. Russell is called by Dr. Chauncey “ an eminent and wor-
thy man.” During his ministry, 171 were admitted to church communion,
and 452 baptized. For family, see Yol. I. 345-6, and 245. Of his dr.
Abigail, who m. Nathaniel Otis, of Sandwich, and after becoming a wid.
resided with her dr. Martha, who m. Edmund Freeman, President Stiles,
in his History of the Three Judges of King Charles I. says, “ She was every
way a woman of superior excellence, of exceedingly good natural abilities,
of natural dignity and respectability, of reading and extensive observation.
She had all along in life been much conversant with the clergy, gentlemen
of the court, and others of the first standing, and took singular delight in
the conversation of instructive characters.” She had, perhaps, more dili-
gently than any other person, perused the papers of the Regicides, which
manuscripts her father brought from Hadley, and, therefore, was enabled to
furnish much information to Dr. Stiles, for his History.
2	Lt. Lewis, who d. Oct. 14, was several years selectman, and also jus-
tice of the “select court.” He was b. in Scit. 1631, and was s. of Geo.
By m. with Sarah Lane Oct. 31, 1655, he had John Oct. 29,1656, who set.
in Hing. and from whom was Rev. Isaiah Lewis, of Wellfleet; Sam’l Apr.
10, 1659 ; Sarah March 4, 1661, who m. Thomas Lincoln Jan. 6, 1685 and286	HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1714, the amount of £20 per annum, which had long been
appropriated to schools “to be kept in each end of the town half
a year, in suitable rooms provided in private dwellings, each
parent, gui rdian, or master,” being “required to provide” for his
or her children, or wards, “ books, pen, ink, and paper suitable for
their learning,” was increased to £80. Mr. Edward Coleman
died this year.1 In 1715, the amount raised for schools was £85.
Mr. Robert Claghorn, son of James, died, sb. 54.
In 1716, Col. Gorham and J\Ir. Thacher were a com-
mittee to attend the church-meeting in behalf of “ the
new church.” It is evident that the “ friends of the
plan ” were resolved, and were men of influence and
pecuniary ability. A meeting-house was already being
2d, Rt. Waterman, Feb. 20, 1G99; James June 3, 1664; Susanna; and
Ebenezer. James, b. 1664, m. Elisa. Lothrop 1698, and had Mary Aug.
16, 1700; Elisa. May 8, 1702; James July 9, 1704; Barnabas March 17,
1706 ; and Solomon June 26, 1708.
1 Edward Coleman Sr., father of the above, m. Margaret Lumbard,
dr. of Thos., Oct. 27, 1648, and was ad. from Boston, an inhab. of this
town Oct. 3, 1662. In 1690, the town granted 25 acres of land “at Yan-
no’s ” to the son, “ the father yet living, but enfeebled.” The issue of
Edward Sr., by w. Margaret, in Boston, was: Edward about 1649;
Elisa. 1651, who m. John Iladaway, in Yarmouth, his 2d w., May 1, 1672;
Mary Sept. 12, 1653; Martha Aug. 8, 1655; in Barnstable, Sarah and
James. Edward, b. 1649, d. as above, without issue. James, m. Pa-
tience Cobb, dr. James, and had Edward Oct. 25, 1695; Martha March 4,
1698, who m. John Phinncy, Sept. 25, 1718, and went to Gorham, Me.;
Thankful Feb. 7, 1699-1700, who m. Robert Claghorn Jan. 16, 1722-3;
a son Feb. 26, 1702-3, died infant; James April 11, 1704; John Sept.
26, 1706; Patience May 6, 1709, who m. James Lothrop July 20, 1732;
and Ebenezer Aug. 15, 1711. The widow m. Thomas Lumbard Sept.
10, 1715. Edward, b. 1695, m. Thankful Lumbard Sept. 16, 1715, and
had Edward, bap. Nov. 7, 1725; and Miriam Oct. 1727, who m. Joseph
Bacon Jr. Dec. 13, 1750. He had, perhaps, others. James, b. 1704, m.
Patience Phinney, dr. Dea. John, March 12, 1727-8, and 2d, Martha Phin-
ney, and had Martha Jan. 31, 1758-9, d. inf; Martha March 19, 1732-3;
James Aug. 8, 1735; John May 14, 1737, who m. Abigail, dr. of Capt.
James Delap, and removed to N. Scotia; and Mary March 27, 1739, who
m. David Howland March 15, 1673. Mr. James Coleman d. April 16,
1781, aged 77; and his wid. Feb. 29, 1784, aged 80. John, b. 1706, m.
Reliance Cobb, wid. Eleazer, Aug. 5, 1736, who d. June 11, 1742, and 2d,
Mary Hamblin Aug. 2,1743, and had Martha June 19, 1737 ; John Oct.
29, 1738; Mary May 11, 1740, d. inf.; Mary Aug. 5, 1744; Thomas
Nov. 8, 1747; Nath’l Sept. 17, 1749; Zaccheus Feb. 24, 1750-1; and
Reliance April 26, 1752. James, b. 1735, m. Zervia Thomas Sept. 24,
1761, and 2d, Anna Lumbard June 28, 1763. From him were Edward
of Sandwich, b. July 28, 1764, who m. Anna Fish; John of S., who m.
Love Fish 1792 ; and Capt. Hezekiah, who m. Dorothy Fish Dec. 29,
1796, and d it Cotuit Port Nov. 15, 1861, aged nearly 90.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
287
erected “ at the east end of Cobb’s Hill,” without wait-
ing for a legal parish incorporation.1 2 Mr. John SaBt
geant died this year; also Mr. John Gorham. In
1717, Jan. 3, the church and town voted to submit
the difficulty in regard to a division; and Feb. 20, an
ecclesiastical council, of which Rev. Boland Cotton, of
Sandwich, was moderator, was convened to take into
consideration “ the irregular proceedings in separating
and forming a new meeting.” The council, consisting
of Rev. Messrs. Cotton, Stone, Little, Greenleaf, Eelles,
Metcalf, and Mayhew, and Elders Shearj. Bourne, Wm.
Bassett, Nath’l Thomas, Sam’l Sturgis, Benj. Warren,
Stephen Clap, and Thomas Lincoln, “ without approv-
ing of the procedure, recommended, under the circum-
stances, a conciliatory course.” The town had now,
perhaps, become sufficiently populous to justify a sep-
aration; at least, the population being widely scab
tered, a division into two precincts might well be re-
garded as a matter of convenience. It is not surprising
that a measure so fraught with the obliteration of old
and endeared associations was considered by many a
needless innovation, and met, therefore, for a time,
with strenuous opposition. After much discussion
and deliberation, the town was divided into two pre
cincts, West and East.8 It was agreed that the minis-
ter, Rev. Mr. Russell,3 * * * * make his election of which one
of the parishes he will serve. His decision, postponed
until the W. Precinct meeting-house was built, Aug.
1	This meeting-house, known as the East Precinct meeting-house, stood
more than a century, — a building of large proportions, — on the same spot
where the present stands.
2	The dividing line “ ran from a little E. of Joseph Crocker’s place S. to
Oyster River.”
8 Although respect for, and attachment to, Rev. Mr. Russell were, in
a good degree, unabated by the disturbances in regard to a division into
parishes, — the project having originated not in consequence of any dis-
affection toward him,—there were, however, as he more than intimates
in his letter, instances of “ disaffection and prejudice.”288
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
1719, was, induced doubtless by reasons generally
approved, to remain with the West Parish. Mr. Laz-
arus Lovell died this year.
In 1718, the West Parish proceeded to build a new
meeting-house; and, abandoning the old structure.
erected in 1681 at the cost of £100 sterling,1 held the
first service in the new edifice on the Thanksgiving-
day of the following year.2 The East Parish pur-
chased the edifice on Cobb’s Hill, paying £450 to the
persons who had caused its erection. Mr. Russell, as
the former minister of the town, had precedence, and
therefore retained possession of the church records,
and proceeded in the pastoral office without ceremony
of induction. No renewed organization of the church
being required, the West has been considered “the
First Church.” The members worshipping with the
East Parish, numbering 64 persons, called a council
which constituted them a regular, independent Con-
gregational Church, as will be seen, a few years after.'
For schools, the appropriation was raised this year to
£40 ; and so continued several years. Mr. Benjamin
Hamblin d. this year; also, Mr. Thomas Crocker.3
In 1719, in the month of March, Dea. Job Crocker d., aged
75.4 Deacon Childs was sent abroad by the East Precinct to ob-
1 This house stood on the hill, ten rods W. of the dwelling of the late
Sturgis Gorham.
8 The structure as to its frame, is the same occupied by the West Parish
to the present time.
8 Mr. Thomas Crocker, merchant, son of Dea. Job, b. 1G74, m. Eliza-
beth Lothrop, wid. of John, and had Walley July 30,1703, d. inf.; Thomas
Aug. 26, 1704; and Walley June 26, 1706. Wallet m. Abigail Anna-
ble Oct. 22, 1730, and had Abigail; Temperance, who m. Daniel Carpen-
ter ; and Walley.
4 See Vol. I. 563-4. Dea. Job Crocker, ordained deacon 1684, was
a distinguished citizen. In addition to the family notice in Vol. L, we may
here say, his drs. Marym. John Howland Jr., 2d wife, June 19,1719; Han-
nah m. prob. John Holden of Warwick July 7, 1712; Elisa, m. Rev. Benj.
Allen of Tisbury April 5, 1712; and Sarah m. Benj. Lumbard Jr. May
27, 1725. Samuel, s. of Dea. Job, b. 1671, and living near Scorton, m.
Sarah Parker Dec. 10, 1696; and 2d, Judith Leavett of Rochester, Ap. 12,
1719 ; and had Samuel Dec. 12, 1697, who m. Ruth Hamblin 1724; Cor-ANNALS OP BARNSTABLE.
289
tain a minister. Mr. Welstead came, and, in turn, Mr. Wiggies-
worth, Mr. Cotton, Mr. W aldron, Mr. W ard, Mr. Gold, Mr. Perkins,
Mr. Gee, Mr. Smith, Mr. Hillhouse, Mr. Russell, Mr. Leonard, and
others. Some received calls, but none accepted, and the precinct
remained without a settled minister several years.
In 1721, Serg. Joseph Crocker1 d.; also, Mr. Ebenezeb
Hinckley, and Oct. 10, Capt. Josiah Crocker.
In 1722, March 18, Mr. Ebenezer Crocker d., aged 36.2
In 1723, Dea. SxVmuel Chipman, innkeeper, d., aged 63.
nelius 1698, d. inf; Mary 1700 ; Patience 1701, who m. Shubael Davis, 2d
w. 1727 ; Elisa. 1703, who m. James Childs 1722; Cornelias March 23,
1704; Roland 1705 ; Gershom 1706 ; Ebenezer June 5, 1710, who m. Ann
Eldridge of F. 1735, and went to Connecticut; Benj. 1711 ; Rebecca, who
m. Jones 1740 ; Rachel, who m. Joseph Howland 1739 ; David Jr., who m.
Dorcas Davis of F. 1741 ; Sarah, who m. Joshua Backhouse of S. 1734;
and Tabitha 1721, who m. Timo. Davis of F. 1760.
1	Mr. Joseph Crocker, youngest s. of Dea. Wm., b. 1654, m. Tempe.
Bursley 1677, and had Wm. Aug. 25, 1679 ; Timo. Ap. 30, 1681 ; Noah
1683, d. y.; Joanna July 18,1687, who m. Joseph Fuller Jr. Feb. 9,1708-
9 ; Martha Feb. 22, 1689; Tempe. Aug. 26, 1694; and Remember, August
26, 1699, who m. Samuel Annable 3d, May 28,1719.
2	Mr. Ebenezer Crocker, s. of Josiah, b. 1687, m. Hannah Hall of Y.
May 22, 1715, and had Mehit. Sept. 16, 1716, who m. Nathan Crocker Jr.
Dec. 27, 1739 ; Hannah Oct. L0, 1718, who m. Ebenezer Childs Jr. Jan.
15, 1747 ; Susanna Oct. 20, 1720, who m. Geo. Conant Jan. 30, 1755;
and Ebenezer March 2, 1722-3.
3	The Chipmans were descended from Elder John, who m. Hope How-
land, dr. of John of Plymouth, 1646, and 2d, Ruth Bourne, wid. of Mr.
Richard of S. 1684. He was in Boston 1631; afterwards of Plymouth ; of
Barnstable 1649, and remained until his 2d m. when he removed to S. “to
the deep regret of the Be. church ” of which he had been ordained Elder
Ap. 1 4, 1670. He d. in S. April 7, 1708. He was 5 j^ears a deputy, and
several years sel. man ; and by trade a carpenter. His 1st w. d. Jan. 8,
1683, aged 54 ; the 2d d. Oct. 4, 1713, aged 71. Issue, all by 1st m., was
Elisa, at Plymouth June 24, 1647, who m. Hosea Joyce of Y., his 2d w.; a
child at Y. Sept. 9, 1650, d. inf.; Hope in Be. Aug. 31, 1652, who m. Jno.
Huckins Aug. 10, 1670; Lydia Dec. 25, 1654, who m. John Sargeant of
Malden, his 3d w.; John March 2, 1656-7, d. inf.; Hannah Jan. 14,1658-
9, who m. Thos. Huckins May 1, 1680; John 1659, d. inf.; Samuel April
15, 1661; Ruth Dec. 31, 1663, who m. Eleazer Crocker Ap. 7,1682; Be-
thia July 1, 1666, who prob. m. Shubael Dimmick ; Mary Feb. 6,1668, who
m. Nathan Skiff of Chilmark Dec. 13, 1699; John Mar. 3, 1670-1; and
Desire Feb. 26, 1673-4, who m. Col. Melatiah Bourne of S. Feb. 23, 1692
-3. Dea. Samuel, b. 1662, was a carpenter, ord. deacon Sept. 1706, a re-
tailer of liquors, active in public business, and highly esteemed. He
m. Sarah Cobb Dec. 17, 1686, who d. Jan. 8, 1742-3, aged 79. Issue:
Thomas Nov. 17, 1687; Samuel Aug. 6, 1689; John Feb. 16, 1690-1;
Mercy Sept. 15, 1692; Joseph Jan. 10, 1693-4; Jacob Aug. 30, 1695 ;
Seth Feb. 24, 1697; Hannah Sept. 24, 1699, who m. Baris Lothrop Jr. 2d
w. Dec. 25, 1713 ; Sarah Nov. 1, 1701, d. y.; and Barnabas Mar. 24,1702.
Hon. John, s. of the Elder, b. 1670, was a shoemaker, and removed early
to S. where he was a rep., magistrate, and militia officer. He m. Mary
Skiff 1691, who d. March 12,1711; 2d, wid. Elisa. Russell, of Boston, dr. Jas.
VOL. II.	37290
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1724, Mr. Joshua Lombard died.
In 1725, the East Parish extended an invitation to
Mr. Joseph Green, and May 12 he was ordained pas-
tor.1 The same day the church, in connection with
this parish, was duly recognized. Mr. Jonathan
Crocker, Mr. Samuel Chipman, and Mr. Jonathan
Baker were chosen deacons of the West Church Aug.
19. Jonathan Crocker, s. of Jona., d. September 21,
aged 29.2
In 1726, June 2, Messrs. Richard Childs, John Lewis, and
Samuel Bacon were qualified to officiate as deacons in the East
Church. The peace of the West Parish was invaded by that
fruitful occasion of breach of harmony, — differences of opinion
respecting the manner of conducting the musical part of the ser-
vice; and so far did the dispute proceed, that June 12 “the church
and society called upon the civil officers to detect and bear testi-
mony against such iniquity.”3 Mr. John Bursley 2d died this
year; also, Nov. 25, Mr. Samuel Allen, aged 824 This year,
Capt. James Delap, whose history partakes so much of ro-
Handly, Jan. 29, 1716, (she had m. 1st, a Pope;) and 3d, Hannah Hookey
(some say Hoxie), of R. I. 1725, who d. “at old Capt. Pope’s, in Dart'o,
June 29, 1725,” and in Mr. Pope’s will she is called Handy. Issue : John
1692, d. inf.; James December 18, 1695; John September 18, 1697 ;
Mary December 11, 1699, who m. Shubael Smith September 6, 1724 ;
Bethia, twin to Mary, who m. Sam’l Smith Oct. 6', 1717; Perez September
28, 1792; Deborah Dec. 6, 1704 ; Stephen June 9, 1708; Lydia, twin to
Stephen, who m. Zeph’h Swift of S. Sept. 30, 1724, from whom were de-
scended Rev. Zeph’h Swift of Conn, and Pres. Moore of Will. Col.; Eben.
Nov. 13, 1709; Handly Aug. 31, 1717 ; and Rebecca Nov. 10, 1719. He
removed to the Vineyard where he was Judge C. C. P. 1722, and from
thence to Newport, where he was of the Court of Assistants, 1756.
1	Rev. Mr. Green was “ a member of Mr. Cotton’s church in Boston,
and highly recommended for talents and piety.”
2	Mr. Jonathan Crocker, b. 1^96, m. Elisa. Bursley Nov. 28, 1723,
and had Ephraim who d. Oct. 17, 1725.
3	Palfrey.
4	Mr. John Bursley 2d, b. 1652, m. Elisa. Howland, dr. Lt. Jno. 1673;
and had Elisa. 1674, d. inf.; Mercy 1675, d. inf.; John 1678; Mary May
23, 1679, whom. Joseph Smith; Jabez Aug. 21, 1681 ; Joanna, Nov. 29,
1684, who m. Nathan Crocker 1709; Joseph Jan. 29, 1686-7; Abigail
Aug. 27, 1690, who m. Nathan Bodfish March 10, 1713; Elisa. Aug. 5,
1692, who m. Jona. Crocker Nov. 28, 1723; and Tempe. Jan. 3, 1695.
Joseph Sr. b. 1687, m. Sarah Crocker Nov. 7, 1712, and had Joseph, who
m. Bethia Fuller Dec. 20, 1730; Lemuel Sept. 8, 1718; and Mercy July
10, 1721, who m. John Goodspeed May 22, 1757. Joseph Jr., who m.
Bettie, had John Nov. 1, 1741; Bettie 1743; Lemuel March 2, 1745;
Sarah 1748 .; Abigail 1750, and Joseph March 27,1.75ft.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
291
mance that tradition has handed down his marvellous adven-
tures, became a resident here.1
In 1727, the town voted that “there be one schoolmaster, and
agents as in past years to settle the school according to law.”
Mr. John Lotheop died this year; also, Dec. 27, Mr. Samuel
Cobb, aged 73.2
1His adventures, as in substance communicated, some years since, by
Rev. Mr. Pratt, now deceased, are as follows: — James Delap, b. in Ca-
van, Ireland, concluded to remove wkh his parents and others of the fam-
ily, to this country; and, in 1725, taking passage in an emigrant ship from
Dublin, soon found that the vessel was under the direction of a most un-
principled captain. The passage proved long and afflictive. The passen-
gers having with them money of considerable amount, it has been supposed
that the captain, moved by avaricious greed, designedly prolonged the voy-
age, intending to starve tl^e passengers and get possession of their treasures.
Nearly half the number died before making land. At this juncture, fortu-
nately for the survivors, the vessel was spoken by another from Ireland,
Henry Ball master, and the emaciated sufferers contrived to make Capt.
B. acquainted with their condition. Going on board, and witnessing the
wretchedness of the passengers, some of whom were then dying, his indig-
nation toward the commander was so excited that, seizing a club, he
threatened to dash out his brains if he did not at once make for the shore
and land the survivors. The vessel being then but a few leagues from
land, the infamous commander, knowing that his designs were suspected,
and fearing the consequences of exposure if he still refused, directed his ship
to the shore, and landed the half-famished emigrants on Nauset bar, at East-
ham. It is said that the murderous fiend was subsequently apprehended
for his criminal conduct, carried back to Ireland, tried, condemned, execu-
ted, and drawn in quarters. The parents of Delap were both of the num-
ber who died on the passage, Mrs. D. dying only the day before the vessel
reached Cape Cod. Her body was taken ashore and buried at Nauset. Of
the children of this family, four died on the voyage, and their bodies were
committed to the deep. James was the only one of the family that sur-
vived, and was then about 14 years old. Such was his emaciated condi-
tion and weakness, that, when landed, he was unable to stand, and could
only creep on his hands and knees. In this pitiful condition, — an orphan,
bereaved of all friends, penniless, and in a strange land, — he found on
these shores hearts that could sympathize with him in his sufferings, and,
at last, made his way to Barnstable. Here he applied himself as an
apprentice to a Mr. Bacon, a blacksmith; and on attaining his ma-
jority commenced business for himself, working at his trade in winter,
and following coasting at other seasons. He soon became master of a ves-
sel, and perhaps owner. By m. with Mary Kelley, of Y., he had Rose 1739,
who m. Eben. Scudder, and d. 1812; Abigail 1741, who m. John Coleman,
and removed to Granville, N. S. and d. 1825; Catharine 1743, whom.
Solo. Otis, and d. 1819 ; Thomas 1744, who d. ae. 27; Mary 1745, who m.
Seth Backus, and d. aged; Sarah 1750, who m. Jonas Farnsworth, and
2d, Geo. Stillman Smith, and d. 1785; Jane 1753, who m. Jonas Farns-
worth 1774, and d. 1826; Hannah 1755, who m. Sam’l Steele Esq. of the
Br. navy, and d. soon; Temperance 1757, who m. Dea. Thad. Harris, and
d. 1832; James 1760, who m. Sarah Walker, and 2d, Mrs. Pengree. Capt.
D. removed to Granville, N. S. with most of his family, in 17 74, and died
1789, aged 78.
2 Mr. Samuel Cobb, s. of Eld. Hy. m. Elisa. Taylor Dec. 20, 1680.292
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1728, Mr. Daniel Parker died ; also, in April, Mr. Thos.
Crocker, aged 57 ;1 and April 29, Dea. Samuel Bacon, aged
46. The West Parish voted, June 6, “to sing the regular or
new way till the church order otherwise.” Thus did innovation
finally triumph over “ the old mode.”
In 1729, Mr. Shubael Claghorn died; also, Mr. Joseph Da-
vis. Mr. Nathaniel Bacon and Mr. John Phinney were chosen
deacons by the E. Church, Jan. 28. In 1730, June 14, Mr. Jos.
Blish died, aged 82.2 In 1731, it was voted that there be two
teachers, one of a grammar and one of a common school, for the
Issue: Sarah Aug. 20, 1681, who m. Benj. Bearse Feb. 4, 1701-2; Thos.
June 1, 1683; Elisa. 1685, who m. Eben. Bearse Nov. 25, 1708; Henry
1687 ; Sam’l Sept. 10, 1691; Mehit. twin to Sam’l, who m. Nathan Taylor
June 30, 1715; Exper. June 8, 1692, who m. Joshua Taylor Feb. 8,1713-
14; Jona. Dee. 25, 1694; Eleazer Jan. 14, 1696; and Lydia 1699, whom.
Eben. Scudder 1725. Thomas, b. 1683, by his w. Rachel had Abigail
Mar. 29, 1711, who m. Nath’l Sturgis Feb. 20, 1734-5; Nath’l Oct. 15,
1713, who m. Susanna Bacon Dec. 14, 1738; Elisa. Feb. 14, 1715, who m.
Jona. Lewis Jr. Oct. 13, 1737; Sam’l Mar. 20, 1717; Matthew Ap. 15,
1719, who m. Mary Garret Jan. 24, 1750-1, and had Matthew, a disting,
merchant of Portland ; Daniel, a prominent citizen of this town, father of
Matthew Esq., and others; David Feb. 28, 1721, who m. Thankful Hinck-
ley Aug. 12, 1745 ; Hervey Ap. 16, 1724, who m. Bethia Hinckley Jan.
31, 1733-4; Thos. Ap. 30, 1726 d. inf.; Eben., twin of Thos., who m.Mary
Smith; Eunice 1729 ; and Mary 1731. Jonathan, s. of Elder Hy., b.
1660, m. Hope, dr. of John Chipman and wid. of John Huckins, March 1,
1682-3, and set. in Portland.
*Mr. Thomas Crocker, s. of Josiah, b. 1671, m. Hannah Green of
Boston, Mar. 25, 1696, and had Tabitha Dec. 20,1698; Josiah Ap. 21,
1701; Seth June 13, 1708 ; Hannah May 8, 1711, whom. Jabez Robinson
July 25, 1744; Thankful; and Joseph 1715, who grad. H. C. 1734.
2 Mr. Joseph Blish, s. of Abraham, b. 1648, m. Hannah Hull, who d.
Nov. 15, 1733, ae. 75, and had Joseph Sept. 13, 1675; John Feb. 17, 1677,
d. y.; Annah 1679; Abraham Feb. 27, 1680-1; Reuben Aug. 14, 1683;
Sarah 1685 d. inf.; Sarah 1687 d. y.; Thankful 1689, who m. Jos. Bodfish
Oct. 11, 1712; John Jan. 1,1691, who d. 1711; Tristram 1694; Mary 1696,
who m. Sam’l Jones June 26, 1718; and Benj. 1699. Abraham, prob. s.
of the above, m. Temp. Fuller Nov. 12, 1736, and had Abraham Oct. 20,
1737 ; Elijah Mar. 5, 1738-9, who m. Sarah Stewart Jan. 25, 1761 ; Re-
becca Nov. 14, 1740; Benj. May 9, 1743; Elish. Ap. 23, 1745, d. inf.;
Martha July 14, 1749; Temp. Nov. 21, 1751; and Timo. Aug. 3, 1756.
Reuben, s. of Joseph, b. 1683, by 1st, Elisa. 2d, Mary, had John, Silas,
Reuben, Elisa., Hannah, and Thankful. Tristram m. Anna Fuller Oct.
17, 1717, and had Benj. June 16, 1718; Anna Nov. 19, 1719; Sylvs. Oct.
13, 1731; and Thankful 1725, who m. Caleb Perry of S. 1758. John, s.
of Reuben, m. Mary Goodspeed Jr. Nov. 15, 1729, and had John, Mary,
Stacy, and Rebecca. Reuben, s. of Reuben, m. Ruth Childs May 21,
1747, and had Reuben, David, Thos., and Elisa. Silas, s. of Reuben, m.
Nancy Tobey of F. 1747, and had Rebecca, Abigail, Mercy, Silas, Elisha,
and Mercy. Elisha, s. of Silas, m. Rebecca Linnel, widow of John and
dr. of Jas. Linnel, who d. Nov. 7,1830, ae. 86, and 2d, Rebecca Linnel then
ae. 29, a niece of 1st w. He d. 1836, ae. 77.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
293
support of which schools £65 was raised. John Bacon Esq.
died August 20, aged 67 ;1 also, Sept. 21, Mr. Eleazer Cobb,
aged 35.
In 1732, Mr. Bennet was employed as schoolmaster, and a
large committee was appointed u to regulate the schools for the
time to come.” The report of the committee being accepted, it
was voted “ that when the two precincts have had equal time in
the town’s schoolmaster, they shall cast lots to determine in
which part the school shall be first kept, and so by turn for four
years; and that in the E. precinct it shall be each year first near
the meeting-house 42 weeks, and near Thomas Hadaway’s 10
weeks; in the W. precinct near John Howland’s 33 weeks, and
then by Benj. Goodspeed Sr.’s 14 weeks, and then by James
Lovell Jr.’s 4 weeks and 4 days.” Mr. Jabez Bursley died this
year;2 also, Mr. Gershom Cobb.
In 1733, the line between this town and Yarmouth was run.
A committee was appointed to prevent disorderly behavior at
night by Indians, negroes, and other persons. The town engaged
to pay for wild-cats killed, £2 per head, half as much for the
young, as provided by the Province laws.3
1	John Bacon Esq. a lawyer of large practice, was also Judge C. C. P.
It should have been stated, Yol. I. 353, that after the death of his 1st wife,
Elisa. Howes, who d. Mar. 5, 1725-6, ae. 61, he m. 2d, Madam Sarah
Warren of Plym. Sept. 9, 1726 ; and that his dr. Hannah m. Eben. Morton
of Plym. Mar. 25, 1709; and Desire m. Wm. Green Mar. 25, 1709. Al-
though his 2d w. was a wid. and grandmother, the strong attachment is
witnessed by a marriage contract. A singular provision in his will is that
his negro slave Dinah shall be sold and “ the proceeds improved by my ex-
ecutors in buying Bibles, and they shall give them equally and alike to each of
my said wife’s and my grandchildren.” That the affection of maturer years
did not wane, is seen in his tender regard,—a provision of his will being that
his son “ Judah shall provide a good beast to go in my wife’s calache to any
part of Barnstable, and once a year to Plym.” His orchard, though given
to his son Judah, was to be enjoyed by his other children 7 years, each hav-
ing the fruit of 5 trees. His wigs, cane, horse-furniture &c. were duly dis-
tributed ; his law books given to Judah who, whilst ample provision for all
the family was minutely arranged, had a Benjamin’s portion of the large
estate. By the demise of Esq. Bacon, Cobb’s Hill parted with a resident
whose prominence and dignity were marked.
2	Mr. Jabez Bursley, s. of Jno. b. 1681, had by his w. Hannah, Bern.
July 21, 1706 ; John Sept. 1, 1708; Elisa. Feb. 1, 1710-11; Abigail Feb.
25, 1714, who m. Benoni Crocker Feb. 19, 1736; Hannah 1715, who m.
Solo. Bodfish Dec. 17, 1741 ; Joanna 1719, who m. Chas. Conant 1733;
Mary 1723; and Barna. elan. 16, 1725. Benj. m. Joanna Cannons July
7, 1735, and 2d, Mary Goodspeed Feb. 2, 1744, and had Jabez July 26,
1735; Martha 1740; Elisa. 1744; Sarah 1748; Benj. 1752; and Lemuel
1755. Jno. m. Elisa. Sanders 1743. Barnabas m. Thankfiil Smith 1754.
8In the Gorham record of “grants,” June 6, 1733, “ for services in the
Narragunset war,” the grantees named as 4 of Barnstable,’ are “ Mary Dav-294
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1734, “Eastham, Harwich, Chatham, and Prov-
incetown, having held a convention and voted to pe-
tition the General Court for removal of the seat of
justice in part to Eastham, this town remonstrated.”
The town applied to the Indian Commissioners “for
relief from expenses incurred on account of the sick-
ness of Indians and the orphans of deceased Indians
left to the care of the town” There were many
meetings of the East Church this year in regard to
the re-establishment of the office of Ruling Elder;
and, August 20, Mr. Green closes a record thus :
“ The good Lord forgive what has been amiss in any
brother at this meeting, and give a good issue of the
difficult business and the very critical affair.”
In 1735, it was voted “ to have two Grammar school-masters.”
In 1736, Mr. John Jenkins d.1 also, John Davis Esq.2
In 1737, Jan. 31, Timothy Crocker Esq. d., aged 57 ;3 and,
April 6, Mr. Ebenezer Scudder d., aged 41.
ener, Sam’l Boreman, Jno. Cannon, Sam’l Linnel, Geo. Lewis, Dr. Matt.
Fuller, Jno. Hathaway, Sam’l Fuller, Jacob Hinckley, Thos. Fuller, Jos.
Higgins, Sanrl Hinckley, Sami Allyn, Sami Davis, Caleb Lombard, Jos.
Gorham, Eben. Goodspeed, Lot Conant, Jno. Clark, Josiah Crocker, Sami
Bryant, Increase Clapp, Rd. Ellingham, Joseph Taylor, Sami Child, John
Duncan, Bart. Hamlin, Eleazer Hamlin, Thos. Huggins, John Phinney,
Joseph Bearse, John Lewis' heirs, Josiah Davis, Eben. Clap, Sami Cops,
Jed. Lumbert, Joseph Blush, Jno. Howland, Shub. Gorham Jr., Jno. Good-
speed, and Jno. Lewis for bro. Benj.”
1	Mr. Jenkins left a legacy of £5 to the poor of the East Church.
2	John Davis, b. 1681, s. of Josiah, was a man of note. He m. Mehit.
Dimoc Aug. 13, 1705, and had Thos. Oct. 1,1706, who m. Susanna Stur-
gis Nov.-17, 1726 ; John Sept. 8, 1708, who m. Abigail Otis 1730, and 2d,
Anne Allen 1736, and had Josiah, John, and Martha; Solomon April 5,1711;
William April 10, 1713 ; Solomon June 25, 1715; Mehit. Aug. 10, 1717,
who m. 1st, Dr. James Hersey, 2d John Russell, 3d John Sturgis, and 4th
Hon. Daniel Davis; Wm. Aug. 24, 1719, who m. Martha Crocker 1745 ;
Josiah 1722 ; Isaac and Jesse, gem., 1724 ; and Isaac 1727. Solomon, b.
1715, was a merchant in Boston, and d. June 6, 1791. He m. Eliza Wen-
dell of Portsm. N. H. Jan. 29, 1750, and 2d, Cath. Wendell Nov. 18, 1777,
and had John 1753 ; Solo. 1754 ; Edward 1755; Thomas 1757 ; Elizabeth
Oct. 14, 1758, who m. Dr. David Townsend May 24,1785, and was mother
of Dr. Solo. D. Townsend, who m. a dr. of Edward Davis; Mehit. 1760;
Henry 1761 ; Josiah 1763; Isaac Ap. 2, 1765, who m. Elisa. Fellows, and
from whom is Gustavus F., Pres, of City Bank, Hartford; and Wm. 1768.
8 Timothy Crocker Esq., b. 1681, merchant, ensign, etc., m. Melatiah
Crocker, dr. Josiah, Oct. 27, 1709. Issue : Jerusha Dec. 12, 1711, who m.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
295
In 1738, the town ordered Mr. Marston to make a passage
through his mill-dam, for alewives. Certain Indians sickened
and died at the house of John Gorham; and for the expenses in-
curred and trouble occasioned by this event, Mr. G. was allowed
£10. Dea. Nathaniel Bacon died in January, this year, aged
63;1 and Mr. Thomas Davis. Mr. Robert Davis was chosen
deacon of the E. Church August 2.
In 1740, Mr. Moody Russell was chosen deacon of the East
Church, May 28.
In 1741, Mr. William Crocker died, aged 62;2 also, Feb’y
11, Mr. Nathaniel Crocker, aged 69 ; and October 8, Mr.
James Allyn, aged 50.
In 1742, a coni, was appointed “to consider some method for
settling the town’s schools for several years.” On hearing the
report of com., it was voted “ to raise a sufficient sum of money
to provide schooling 4 years and 5 mos. viz.: 10 mos. near Stur-
gis Gorham’s; 10 mos. near Samuel Annable Jr.’s ; 10 mos. near
wid. Mary Howland’s; 4 mos. near Eben Child’s; 4 mos. near
Benj. Marston’s; 2 mos. in the Lovell neighborhood; 3^ months
near wid. Hester Hamblin’s, and 3 mos. in the Bearse neighbor-
hood ; and that the sum raised for these schools be £299 6s. old
tenor.” The town again sent a memorial to the General Court,
setting forth a statement of the charges incurred for the support
and care of Indians, and asking for remuneration. Elisha Lum-
bert had liberty to build a wharf at Hyannis Harbor, with the
stipulation that the inhabitants have the privilege of landing
upon it their persons and goods without charge of wharfage.
In 1744, June 21, Mr. Samuel Annable died, aged 74; and,
Dec. 2, Mr. Joseph Bodfish died, aged 94.
In 1745, the amount raised for schools and for the poor was
Elijah Deane May 19, 1741 ; Melatiah Mar. 19, 1714, who m. John Sturgis
Esq. March 21, 1734; Bathsheba Ap. 2, 1717, who m. Rev. Sam’l Tobey
of Berkley Sept. 6,1738; Abigail April 2, 1721, who m. Rev. Roland
Thacher of Wareham Sept. 2, 1740; and Martha Dec. 26, 1724, who m.
Capt. Wm. Davis Feb. 2, 1744-5.
1	See Vol. I. 353. Dea. Nathaniel Bacon, s. of Nathaniel 2d, born
Sept. 9, 1G74, m. Ruth Dagget of the Vineyard Nov. 11, 1696, and had
Thomas Sept. 30, 1697, who set. in E.; David Dec. 11, 1700; Jonathan
March 11, 1703; Hannah Jan. 15, 1704-5; and Sarah Jan. 6, 1707-8.
His wid. d. Aug. 6, 1756 Dea. B. was a blacksmith and innholder.
2	Mr. Wm. Crocker, b. 1679, s. of Joseph, m. Mary Crocker, dr. Josiah,
1705, and had Mercy Sept. 22, 1706, who m. Joseph Blish; a son June 20,
1708, d. inf.; a dr. Aug. 3, 1709, d. inf.; Wm. Sept. 9, 1710, who m. Han-
nah Baker; Alice 1712, who m. Stephen Beals of Hing.; Mary Aug. 12,
1714; Joseph 1718 ; and Benj. March 20, 1720.296
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
£220. Mr. John Bacon, s. of John Esq. died May 24;' Mr.
Joseph Davis also died this year, and Lothrop Russell, who
grad. H. C. 1743, s. of Dr. John, died July 16, aged 21.
In 1746, Dea. John Phinney died; also, August 24, Mr.
Jonathan Crocker, aged 84.2
In 1748, Mr. John Bursley 3d died ;3 also, May 15, Mr. Benj.
Be arse. Mr. John Hinckley was chosen deacon of the East
Church March 2.
In 1750, Mr. Nathaniel Baker died;4 also, July 11, Mr.
Robert Claghorn ; Mr. Rt. Fox well also died this year.
1	Capt. John Bacon, b. 1697, was lost at sea. He m. Elisa. Freeman
May 3, 1726, and had Mary March 24, 1725-6, d. inf.; John Ap. 29,1728;
Barnabas Ap. 17, 1729, d. inf; a dr. Jan. 3, 1730-1, d. inf.; Elisa. May 8,
1731, who m. Thomas Dimmock Oct. 6, 1755; Isaac Dec. 25, 1732, who m.
Alice Taylor Oct. 29,1762, and d. June 26,18197aged 87 ; Mercy Jan. 27,
1734-5 ; Simeon July 26, 1736 ; Desire May 20, 1738 ; and Mary Aug. 23,
1740, who m. Joseph Davis. The bro. of the above, Nathaniel, b. 1692,
m. Anna Annable Aug. 19, 1720, and 2d, Thankful Lumbert 1730, and by
the last had Lemuel, Benj., Jabez, Hannah, and Jane. His wid. m. Austin
Bearse 1744. Another bro., Isaac, b. 1699, m. Hannah Stevens and re-
moved to Provincetown. Another, Doct. Solomon, b. 1701, m. Hannah
Capron July 16, 1726. Judah, b. 1703, prob. d. without issue.
2	Mr. Jonathan Crocker, s. of Jonathan, b. 1662, m. Hannah How-
land May 20, 1686, and 2d, Thankful Hinckley, wid. of Jno. Jr., Feb. 1710
-11; and had Lydia Sept. 26, 1686, who m. Benj. Bodfish Nov. 10, 1709 ;
Hannah March 26, 1688, who m. Shub. Fuller 1708 and removed to Con-
necticut ; Thankful March 6, 1690, d. y.; Isaac Ap. 4, 1692, who m. Ann
Smith Dec. 13, 1718 and went to Ct., and afterwards m. 2d Elisa. Fuller of
Be. Oct. 31, 1726; Reliance June 28, 1694, who m. Joseph Smith Jr. Oct.
5, 1712; Jona. May 28, 1696 ; James Sept. 3, 1699, who m. Alice Swift,
dr. Jireh of S. Nov. 21, 1721 and went to Ct.; and Eplfm 1702, d. y.
John Jr. bro. of Jona. b. 1664, m. Mary Bacon Nov. 5, 1702, and 2d,
Sarah Hinckley. Issue: Sarah Jan. 4, 1703-4; Moses Ap. 5, 1705, who m.
Mary Fish of S. May 15, 1735 ; Mary 1707 ; John 1709; and Elisa. 1711.
Capt. Joseph, bro. of Jona., b. 1668, m. Anna Howland Sept. 18, 1691,
and was of Cotuit. Issue: Deborah 1691; Prudence July 26, 1692, who
m. John Gorham Esq. Oct. 2, 1712 ; and Benj. Ap. 5,1696. John, son of
John, b. 1709, had by his w. Lydia, Elisa. 1738; .Stephen 1740; Joseph
1742; Allynl745; Bathsheba 1747 ; Lydia 1749; David 1752; Hannah
1753 ; John 1755, father of John Barker; and Abigail 1758.
8 John'Bursley, 3d of the name, b. 1678, m. Mary Crocker Feb’y 11,
1702 ; one of his drs., Experience, m. Benj. Lothrop.
4 Mr. Nathaniel Baker, s. of Samuel and g. s. of Nicholas, had chil-
dren : Benny Aug. 15, 1705, d. inf.; Mercy Feb. 4,1706, who m. Sylvs.
Cobb Nov. 7, 1728; Sarah Oct. 4, 1708, d. inf; Nathaniel Dec. 15, 1709;
Nicholas Nov. 6, 1711 ; Sarah Nov. 2, 1713, who m.-Jona. Sturgis Oct. 26,
1732 ; Thankful March 28, 1715, who m. Jesse Cobb Jan. 1, 1734 ; Benny
Sept. 28, 1716 ; and Elisa. March 9,1718, who m. Benj. Nye Jr. of F. Sept.
28, 1738. He then m. 2d, wid. Mercy Lewis Jan. 5, 1718-19, who d. Dec.
7, 1768, aged —. Nathaniel, b. 1709, m. Anne Lumbard of Newton
1734, and had Isaac Ap. 12, 1734, who m. Rebecca Lewis Oct. 6, 1754,
and had Rebecca, James, Lewis, Ezekiel, Nathaniel, John who settled in
Brewster, and Isaac; Mercy May 6, 1738; Benny 1751; and Anna, 1754.ANNALS OF BAENSTA3LE.
297
In 1751, Bursley’s bridge was rebuilt. It was “agreed to give
Benj. Marston one-fourth part of the herrings taken at his mill-
brook,—he to keep the passage-way open for the fish to go up
in the spring, and for the young to come down in the fall; also
to keep the dam between the ponds in repair.” A committee
was appointed “ to take possession in behalf of the town of a
number of small islands of thatch that have risen up on the
flats.” Mr. Austin Be arse, son of Benjamin, died June 2, aged
47.1 In 1752, the amount raised for schools was £60.
In 1753, the sum raised for schools was £65. Mr. Wm. Lov-
ell died this year, and, May 9, Mr. Barnabas Chipman was
chosen a deacon of the West Church. In 1754, March 4, Mr.
Nicholas, b. 1711, m. Dorcas Backus of S. and d. Jan. 31, 1739-40; he
had Nathaniel, Eben., and David. Benny, b. 1716, m. Patience Lumbard
Nov. 19, 1741, and had John Jan. 3, 1743; and Thankful June 29, 1745.
The father died Dec. 29, 1747; the mother Dec. 28, 1748.
1 The Bearse family date from Austin (often written Augustine) Bearse,
who arr. Ap. 24, 1638, from Southampton, in the ship Confidence, and who
joined the Be. church Ap. 29, 1643, of which he was a consistent and highly
respected member. Goodman Austin Bearse, as he was styled, had a
large family b. in this town, viz.: Mary 1640; Martha 1642; Priscilla Mar.
10, 1643-4, who m. Dea. John Hall Jr. of Y. 1660; Sarah Mar. 28, 1646,
who m. Jno. Hainblin 1667; Abigail Dec. 18, 1647, who m. Allen Nichols
Ap. 12, 1670; Hannah Nov. 16, 1649; Joseph Jan. 25, 1651-2; Hester
Oct. 2, 1653; Lydia Sept. 30, 1655; Rebecca 1657; and James July 31,
1660. Joseph, b. 1652, was a soldier in Philip’s war, and m. Martha Tay-
lor Dec. 3, 1676, and had Mary Aug. 16, 1677, who d. single Jan. 19, 1760,
aged 84; Joseph Feb. 21, 1679; Benj. June 21, 1682 ; Priscilla Dec. 31,
1683, d. inf.; Eben. Jan. 20, 1685-6; John May 8, 1687; Josiah Mar. 10,
1690, who went to Ct.; and James Oct. 3,1692. Benj. b. 1682, was early
set. at Hyannis, and m. Sarah Cobb Feb. 4, 1701-2, and 2d, Anna Nicker-
spn of C. 1747. He had Martha Nov. 9,1702, who m. Antipas Lewis Oct.
15, 1730; Augustine June 3, 1704; Elisa. May 3, 1706; Joseph Oct. 30,
1708; Benj. Mar. 26, 1710, who set. in Chatham; Jesse Oct. 22,1712;
Priscilla June 5, 1713, who m. Elnathan Lewis Oct. 16, 1735; David Mar.
27, 1716; Peter Oct. 25, 1718; Sam’l Dec. 9, 1700, who set. in Y.; Sarah
July 5, 1722, who m. Eben. Nickerson of Y. Feb. 17, 1744; Thankful Feb.
4, 1724, who m. Shubael Nickerson Mar. 6, 1746; and Stephen. Mr. B.
d. May 15, 1748, and his “mulatto boy Tom was appraised at £60.” Au-
gustine, b. 1704, m. Bethia Linnel June 3, 1728, and 2d, Thankful Bacon,
wid. of Nath’l, Sept. 7, 1744, and had Prince Mar. 1, 1730-1, who m. De-
sire Downes 1754; Temp. Mar. 17, 1732-3, who m. Lemuel Lewis March
7, 1750; Mercy Mar. 9, 1734-5, who m. TIios. Buck Feb. 20, 1752; Lydia
Dec. 25, 1736; Simeon June 27, 1739; Sarah 1746, who m. Sam’l Bearse
Nov. 15, 1764; and Levi 1747. Joseph, b. 1708, m. Lydia Deane Oct.
12, 1749, and d. 1751, leaving a son Joseph. The wid. m. Thos. Annis
1756. Peter, b. 1718, m. Deborah Bacon Nov. 12, 1741, and had Sam’l
Sept. 10, 1742, who m. Sarah Bearse Nov. 15, 1764 ; David Nov. 20, 1745;
and Edward June 12, 1750. Samuel, b. 1720, resided in Y., and d. Oct.
30, 1751, ae. 30; he had no family, but we record his act of filial piety in
directing in his will that tombstones be placed at the graves of his father
and mother.
VOL. ii.	38298
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Joseph Blish Jr. died, aged 79 and, Aug. 24, Mr. John Cobb
died, aged 77. In 1755, June 15, Mr. William Blachford.
died.2
In 1756, Jan. 17, Dea. Eben. Child died, aged 66.8 Mr. Syl-
vanus Cobb died Sept. 20 ; and, Dec. 5, Mr. Thomas Crocker
Jr., aged 55 ;4 also, Mr. Thomas Cobb.
In 1757, the small-pox raged in town, and many inhabitants
died. By this afflictive visitation, extraordinary expenses were
incurred. A bounty of 2s. per head was offered for foxes; and
each householder was required to kill six crows or blackbirds.
“ The French people, being still in town,” were the cause of some
expense. Mr. Benj. Crocker died this year, aged 61;5 also,
1	Joseph Blish Jr., s. of Joseph, b. 1675, m. Hannah Child July 30,
1702, and 2d, Remember Backus of S. 1733. Issue : Joseph Feb. 2,1704;
Abigail NoV. 29, 1705, who m. Seth Crocker; Sarah Oct. 1, 1707, who m.
Seth Hamblin Oct. 9, 1735; Mehit. June 14, 1711, who m. Benj. Jenkins
Oct. 29, 1730; Abraham Sept. 29, 1712, who d. Feb. 8,1723-4; and Han-
nah June 14, 1715. Joseph, a leading whig, and son of the above, nr.
Mercy Crocker Oct. 28, 1730, and had Joseph July 20,1731, who m. Sarah
Crocker May 19, 1757; Hannah Oct. 28, 1732, who m. Zach. Perry of S.
Feb. 7, 1744-5; William Dec. 22, 1733; Sam’l 1735; Seth 1739; Mercy
Oct. 24, 1740 ; Benj. 1742; Eben. Ap. 1,1744 ; and Timo. Feb. 16,1745-6.
2	Mr. William Blachford came from London, and m. Elisa. Lewis,
dr. Benj., Nov. 12, 1728. He resided at Half-way Pond, was industrious
and respectable. His wife was of good order of inind, connected with the
best families in town, and 53 years (to the day of her death), a member of
the Barnstable church, “ exemplary and pious.” Thirty-five years she was
a widow, and, left with a young family and small estate in an obscure por-
tion of the township, contrived by rare industry, uncommon energy, and
good management, to bring up her children respectably, she at last going
to her grave under the weight of nearly four-score and ten years, 1790,
honored and commended by her pastor. Issue: Peter May 10, 1729;
Lydia Ap. 5, 1734, d. y.; Benj. June 11, 1738 ; Remember Mar. 3, 1739-
40; Mercy Ap. 13, 1742; David June 17, 1744; Lydia May 22, 1746; and
William June 25, 1750. Benj. m. Sarah Godfrey of Y. 1761. David
m. Elisa. Ellis of Prov. 1765, and d. Nov. 16, 1822, se. 78. William m.
Monica Eldridge of H., and d. Aug. 30, 1816, ae. 66.
3	Dea. Child, s. of Dea. Rd., see p. 188, m. Elisa. Crocker 1678, who d.
Jan. 15, 1696, and had a 2d w. Hannah. Issue: Sam’l Nov. 6, 1679;
Elisa. Jan. 23, 1681-2, d. inf.; Thomas Jan. 10, 1681-2, d. inf.; Hannah
Jan. 22, 1684; Timo. Sept. 22, 1686; Eben. 1691; Elisa. June 6, 1692;
James Nov, 6, 1694; Mercy May 7, 1697 ; and Joseph Mar. 5, 1699-1700.
Dea. Eben., b. 1691, by his w. Hope had Elisa., Eben., Richard, Mary, and
Mercy. Eben. Jr., b. Ap. 10,1723, m. Hannah Crocker Jan. 15,1745, who
d. Feb. 23, 1755, and 2d, Abigail Freeman 1756.
4	Mr. Thos. Crocker, s. of Thos., and g. s. of Dea. Job, b. 1704, m.
Mehit. Dimmick 1727, and 2d, Rebecca Hamblin Oct. 20, 1780. Issue:
Walley, Elisa., Sarah, Rebecca, Thos., Esther, Barns., Huckins, and Mary.
6 Mr. Benj. Crocker, s. of Capt. Joseph of Cotuit, b. 1696, m. Priscilla
Hall of Y. Sept. 17, 1719, and had Deborah, Desire, who m. Cornelius
Sampson of Roch. Oct. 3, 1747, and Martha.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
299
May 23, Mr. Davip Cobb. In 1758, Mr. Gebshom Cobb Jr.
died; and, Oct. 11, Mr. James Beakse, aged 66.1
In 1759, Mr. Eben. Bearse, s. of Joseph, died in Feb.;2 Jno.
Sturgis Esq. died Aug. 10, aged 56;3 and, Sept. 10, the Rev.
1Mr. James Bearse, b. 1G92, m. Mary Fuller Mar. 19, 1719-20, and
2d, Thankful Linnel 1726. He had Jabez Feb. 20, 1720-1, who m. Elisa.
Hallet Nov. 26, 1747, and 2d, Hannah Bearse Mar. 26, 1761 ; James Feb.
3, 1728-9, d. inf.; Lemuel May 3, 1731, who m. Patience Phinney Ap.
30, 1761 ; and Thankful Aug. 1, 1736, who m. Lemuel Lumbert Sept. 20,
1753. Mr. B. in his will bequeathed his “ Indian maid Thankful Peas9' to
his widow.
2	Mr. Eben. Bearse, s. of Joseph, b. 1685, m. Elisa. Cobb Nov. 25,
1708,	and 2d, Joanna Lumbert Sept. 4, 1712. The issue: Bethia Aug. 6,
1709,	who m. John Lovell Nov. 14, 1732; Sam i Feb. 26, 1711; Elisa.
Mar. 22, 1714, d. inf.; Abigail Nov. 22, 1715, who m. Melatiah Lewis Oct.
l,	1742 ; Eben. Mar. 1, 1717, who m. Mary Berry of Y. 1754; Daniel July
17, 1720 ; Stephen Oct. 1, 1721, who m. Hannah Coleman June 9, 1748,
and had sons Daniel and Solomon; Rebecca June 3,1725; Patience 1727;
Elisa. 1729, who in Nath’l Bassett of Roch. 1752 ; and Ruth 1734, who
m.	Jona. Pitcher Feb. 9, 1758.
3	The progenitor of all of the name here, and to a great extent else-
where in the country, Mr. Edward Sturgis Sr., selectman of Y. and
many years delegate to the Colonial Court, we have mentioned on p. 203;
also his son Thomas p. 216. Other sons were, without doubt, Samuel and
Edward Jr. Samuel of Y. m. Mary Hedge 1667, was made a freeman
1670, and d. 1674. Edward Jr. d. in Y. 1679-80, leaving a wid. Eliza-
beth and children. To his s. Joseph he gave £20 “ more than to his other
children,” and to his “ daughter Desire a silver tankard.” His inventory
was £963, a large estate for the time. He left a legacy to the minister,
Mr. Thornton ; also to Col. Gorham. Samuel Esq. of Y. who “ in his
35th year,” Oct. 17, 1700, m. Mercy Howes, “she being 19,” had a dr.
July 10, 1701, d. inf.; Sarah Mar. 24, 1703; John Nov. 16, 1704, grad. H.
C. 1723 ; Sarn’l Oct. 28, 1706, grad. H. C. 1725; Thomas Nov. 25, 1709;
Hannah Jan. 1, 1711-12; Prince Sept. 11, 1715; and Mercy Dec. 30,
1718. He is said to have been “ an eminent merchant.” Samuel, of Be.,
m. wid. Mary Orris Oct. 14, 1697, and had Nath’l Jan. 8, 1698-9, d.
1711; John June 6, 1701; Solo. Sept. 25, 1703; Mary Feb. 14, 1706 ;
Moses June 18, 1708; Jona. Nov. 1, 1711 ; and Nath’l Feb. 2, 1714-15.
There were also other drs. Mi’s. Orris had by her Is husband Nath’l, who
came to Be. from Nantucket and d. Nov. 23, 1696, Susan, Deborah, and
Jane. Edward, of Y., m. Mehit. Hallet Nov. 25, IV13, and had a large
family. Edward, of Y., m. Thankful Hedge 1 730. James, of Y., by
his w. Rebecca had Rebecca 1690; Hannah 1693; Bethia 1695; Temp.
1697; Thankful 1701; Elisa. 1703 ; and James Oct. 13, 1707. Thomas,
of Be., s. of Sam’l and Mary, m. Martha Russel, and had Thomas 1722;
Jona. 1730; and 5 drs. John Esq., of Be., m. Melatiah Crocker Mar. 21,
1734, and 2d, Mehit. Russell, wid. of Jno., May 9, 1754, and had Josiah
Oct. 17, 1737 ; Melatiah Oct. 14, 1739; Timo. C. Mar. 30, 1742; Lucre-
tia Oct. 14, 1743 ; Sarah Ap. 17, 1755, who m. Isaiah Parker; and John Mar.
19,1758. Some have it that Jno., b. Feb. 18,1731, grad. H. C. 1750, and d.
1752, was his son, prob. by a previous m.; but we are unable to determine.
The late Mr. Samuel Davis of Piym. has said, “ There is a Sturges family
in Fairfield, Ct., whose ancestors prob. emigrated from Yarm.” Owing to
the absence of a portion of the Yarm. records, we have : ot been able to
trace the lineage with the particularity we intended.300
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNT/.
Jonathan Russell, aged 70, greatly esteemed, after a ministry
of 47 years.1 In 1760,the town voted “to settle two schoolmas-
ters, one in each precinct,” and to add £30 to the usual stipend of
£65 paid for schools.
Rev. Oakes Shaw succeeded to the pastorate of the
West Church, made vacant by the demise of Mr. Rus-
sell, and was ordained Oct. 1. Mr. John Bearse died
May 3, aged 72;2 and, the same year, Mr. Benj. Bod-
fish died, aged 77;3 also, John Russell Esq.4 Eben.
Taylor, son of Eben., who graduated Harvard College
1759, died this year, March 13, aged 23. Messrs. Eb-
enezer Wood, John Ewer, Lazarus Lovell, and Joseph
Blossom, of this town, were this year recognized as
*Rev. Mr. Russell, b. 1690, see Vol. I. 345-6, grad. Yale 1708, m. a
dr. of Col. John Otis, and sister of Col. James. Mr. Russell was noted
for his early piety, talents, and assiduity in his professional duties; and his
wife was “ a help meet for him,” — an eminent Christian lady, — sharing a
good degree of the mental qualities of her excellent father, who has been
commended as “ an eminent Christian, strict and exemplary in the perform-
ance of all religious duties.” Mr. R. received to the church during his
ministry 242 as communicants, and baptized 563 persons. A discourse,—
the annual election sermon, — preached by him before the Gen. Court, was
published.
2 Mr. John Bearse, s. of Joseph, b. 1687, m. Eleanor Lewis Nov. 15,
1711,	and had Lydia July 28, 1712, who m. Capt. Jno. Cullio Jan. 1,1735;
John, who m. Lydia Lumbert Feb. 12, 1746; Hannah, who m. Jabez
Bearse Mar. 26, 1761, his 2d w.; Eleanor, who m. John Logee Jan. 13,
1753 ; Martha, who m. Isaac Lewis Feb. 10, 1748; Mary ; and Dinah.
8 Mr. Benj. Bodfish, b. 1683, see p. 142-3, m. Lydia Crocker Nov. 10,
1709, was a prominent citizen, and resided E. of Scorton Hill. He had
Sylvs. Sept. 2, 1710, who m. Mary Smith Dec. 20, 1738; Hannah Feb. 12,
1712,	who m. Caleb Nye of S.; Thankful Feb. 19, 1714, who m. Joseph
Shelley of Raynham ; Solomon Mar. 20, 1716, who m. Hannah Bursley Jr.;
Joseph Ap. 16, 1718; Benj. Mar. 18, 1720; Lydia 1723; Rachel 1726;
and Jona. Aug. 10,1727. Joseph, b. 1677,m. Thankful Blish Oct. 11,1712,
and had Elisa. Sept. 6,1713, who m. Eben. Goodspeed 3d, Sept. 29, 1736;
Hannah July 18, 1716, who m. Sam’l Blossom Oct. 28, 1744; Mary June
17, 1719, who m. Jos. Nye of S. Dec. 10, 1741; Joseph Mar. 8, 1722, who
m. Mehit. Goodspeed 1 749; and Thankful June 6, 1724, who m. Peter Co-
nant May 4, 1741. Nathan, b. 1685, m. Abigail Bursley. Ebenezer, b.
1688, went to N. Jersey. Robert, youngest bro. of the preceding, m.
Jemima Nye Mar. 26, 1730, and 2d, Elisa. Hadaway Dec. 10, 1739, and
had Elisa. Sept. 11, 1741; and Eben. Feb. 15, 1742-3, who m, and had 12
eh., the sons being Robt., Eben., Josiah, Simeon, David, Alvin, and Oliver.
Of these last, David was father of Rev. Asa N., David Jr., Parker N., and
Elisa., who m. Kenney of Ware ham.
4 John Russell Esq. was s. of the Rev. Jona., and m. Elizabeth Bridge-
lain 1754. We should have said, he d. Aug. 25, 1759. Inv. 1 TOO.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
301
“belonging to the Baptist Society of Harwich,” and
are supposed to have been the first of the order here.
In 1761, Capt. Sylyanus Bourne, of the Provincial Army,
died March 22, aged 29, whilst engaged in recruiting service,1
Mr. John Dayis died this year; also, July 3, Dea. Moody Rus-
sell, aged 68. Mr. Joseph Blish and Mr. Timothy Chipman were
chosen deacons of the West Church Feb. 26, 1761-2. In 1762
Capt. Samuel Sturgis 3d d., aged 25. In 1763, Feb. 14, Mr.
Nathaniel Cobb died, aged 50; and Sept. 18, Hon. Sylyanus
Bourne, aged 70.2
In 1764, the town raised £133.6.4 to rebuild “the great
bridge.” Dayid Crocker Esq. died this year, aged 67.3
1Capt. Bourne, b. 1731, m. Hannah Sturgis Feb. 3, 1757, but had no
issue. In his will, May 24, 1758, he styles himself a “merchant, but bound
on a dangerous enterprise.” This was just before leaving for Cape Bre-
ton. His wid. d. June 13, 1798, aged 62.
2 Hon. Sylvanus Bourne, s. of Melatiali of S.r b. 1694, m. Mercy Gor-
ham March 20, 1718. In 1720 he was an inhab. of Falmouth, but shortly
after set. in this town. In early life a merchant, and long engaged in com-
merce, he amassed a large property. He was col. of militia, many years
of the Council, also Reg. Prob. and afterward judge. His w. survived
him many years, and died April 11, 1782, aged 87. Her will shows that
the family maintained an affluent style of life. A portrait of her, with the
English book of common prayer in her hand, painted by Copley 1766, is
preserved, as also other family portraits. Among the items of her will are
her negro boy Cato, to her son RI., to be manumitted when 35 ; her negro
girl Chloe to her dr. Her husband's “ silver-hilted sword,” his grandfather's
“ large silver tankard,” and much other plate, jewelry, the coat of arms,
etc. are also enumerated. The children were: Desire Jan. 19, 1717-18,
who m. Nath'l Clap of Scit. Dec. 22, 1737 ; Mary April 22, 1720, who m.
Nath’l Stone Jr. of II. 1742; Melatiali Nov. 14, 1722; William Feb. 27,
1723-4; Hannah Dec. 8, 1725, who m. Isaac Hinckley Jr. Dec. 18, 1748 ;
Mercy Aug, 22, 1727, who m. Samuel Jirdon Esq. of Biddeford April 12,
1751; Abigail June 21, 1729, who m. Kenelm Winslow Jr. of Marshfield
March 14, 1754; Sylvanus, Nov. 21, 1731; Eunice Feb. 16, 1732-3, who
m. John Gallison of Marblehead; and Richard Nov. 1, 1738-9. Col. Wil-
liam, b. 1734, set. in Marblehead, merch’t, magistrate, etc. and d. Aug. 10,
1770. He m. a dr. of Lieut.-Gov. Hazard, and 2d, Deborah Freeman,
wid. of James, and dr. of Judge Tasker; and had Lucretia, who m. Col.
Orne of M.; Frances, who m. Judge Peabody of Exeter; and Charlotte,
who m. 1st, Dr. Swett of Newburyport, 2d, Col. Hamilton of Berwick, and
3d, Gov. Gilman, of Exeter. Col. B. served at the taking of Louisburg.
8David Crocxer Esq. s. of Dea. Job, b. 1697, grad. H. C. 1716, was
many years town clerk and selectman. In 1742 he was Just. C. C. P. He
m. Abigail Loring Nov. 12, 1724, and 2d, Mrs. Mary Stewart Jan. 27, 1757.
Issue : a son Jan. 9, 1725, d. inf.; David April 14, 1726, d. 1734; Abigail
May 20, 1728, who m. Seth Blossom Jan. 10, 1754; William Jr. Dec. 8,
1730; Alice April 18,1757; Hannah 1759; Sarah 1761; and Lydia
1763.302
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1765, Dea. John Hinckley died April 11, aged 64; and
Dea. Robert Dayis died June 1, aged 70.1 Edward Bacon Esq.
Mr. Gershom Davis, and Mr. Ebenezer Hamblin were chosen
deacons of the E. Church July 3.
In 1768, the town voted “to build a new poor-house on the
site of the old one.” In 1769, a controversy that existed many
years respecting the dividing line between the town and the dis-
trict of Marshpee, was finally settled. Col. James Otis was ap-
pointed this year a member of His Majesty’s Council.
In 1770, the Rev. Joseph Green, minister of the
East Parish and pastor of the church, died Oct. 4,
aged 70.2 Other losses sustained by the town this
year were the death of Mr. Samuel Bacon, aged 77,
January 29;3 Mr. Seth Crocker, aged 62, March
'Dea. Davis, b. 1697, s. of Joseph, m. Jane Annable Oet. 8, 1719 ; he
d. without issue. Was some time selectman, etc. His bro. James, b. 1700
m. Thankful Hinckley Jan. 4, 1727-8, and had Hannah 1729, d. inf.;
Hannah 1731; Joseph 1733; Benjamin 1735, who m. Patience Bacon,
1757; Eunice 1737, who in. Jones; Thankful 1739, who m. Palmer of F.
1765 ; James March 6, 1741; David 1743; and Barnabas, who d. y.
James, b. 1741, m. Reliance Cobb, and had Joseph, Benj. James, David,
and Mary. Joseph, s. of the last James (see Vol. I. 641), m. 1st, Lucre-
tia, and 2d, Mary, and had Phebe; Rebecca, who m. Gorham; Elisha T.;
Polly, who m. Gorham; Lueretia, who d. y.; Joseph; Mary B.; John; Lu-
cretia; and Abner July 17, 1784. James, s. of James and Reliance, b.
1778 m. Ingraham, and d. in Boston 1862, aged 84, an estimable gentle-
man, a merchant of high standing, and left a son bearing his name.
2 Rev. Mr. Green is the only pastor whose whole future ministry has
been spent in the service of this church. See Vol. I. 566. Born in Bos-
ton, June 21, 1700; grad. II. C. 1720; he m. Hannah Russell, dr. Rev.
Jonathan.
8 See Vol. I. 352. Capt. Samuel Bacon, s. of Jeremiah, b. 1692, m.
Deborah Orris, who d. May 20, 1721 ; 2d, wid. Hannah Russell, dr. Joseph
Paine Esq. of H. Jan. 7, 1724-5, who d. May 8, 1753; and 3d, Mary
Howland Feb. 21,1754. Issue: Sarah Feb. 24,1713-14, who m. Jabez Lin-
nel Nov. 11, 1736 ; Orris May 7, 1715, who m. Hannah Lewis Nov. 23,
1738, and d. July 11, 1733; Thomas Oct. 23, 1716, who m. Desire Hallet
Feb. 1, 1745; Susannah Dec. 24,1718, who m. Nath’l Cobb Dec. 14,1738;
Deborah Dec. 4, 1720, who m. Peter Pierce Nov. 12, 1741; Hannah
1725-6 ; and Mary 1730. Jeremiah, b. 1694, had by w. Abigail, Prince
June 15, 1720; and Jeremiah Jan. 14, 1723-4, who m. Hannah Taylor
April 23,1750. Joseph, b. 1695, m. Patience Annable 1722, and had
Joseph April 11, 1723, who m. Miriam Coleman Dec. 13, 1750; Desire
Dec. 3, 1724, who m. Joseph Davis Jr. Sept. 24, 1745; Jane Feb. 28,
1727-8, who m. James Davis Jr. September 24, 1745; Samuel March 26,
1731 ; Patience June 29, 1734, who m. Benj. Davis May 19, 1747 ; Anna
July 29, 1737, who d. June 20, 1761 ; and Mercy April 17, 1740, who m.
Benj. Lumbert Sept. 4, 1760. Nath’l, b. 1700, m. Sarah Cobb, June 11,ANNALS OP BARNSTABLE.
303
25;1 Mr. Thos. Child, April 11, aged 88;2 and Dea.
Timothy Chipman, Aug. 24.s
In 1771, an invitation having Deen extended to
Rev. Timothy Hilliard, of Cambridge, he was settled
here in the ministry as successor to Mr. Green, in
charge of the East, or 2d Congregational Church,
April 10. A school-house was this year built “ on the
north side of the old burying-ground; ” and this, it is
supposed, was the first erected in the township, — pri-
vate dwellings having been previously used for
schools. The present year is generally conceded to
have been the epoch of the organization of the Bap-
1726, and had Rebecca Dec. 17, 1726; Jeremiah June 25, 1732; Elisa.
May 1, 1734; Sarah May 9, 1736; and Nath’l March 3, 1737-8, and went
to N. J. Job, b. 1703, m. Elisa. Mills March 10, 1725.
*Mr. Crocker, s. of Thos. b. 1708, m. 3 times, and had Hannah 1732;
and Thos. 1735, who removed to Lee.
2	Mr. Child, b. 1682, had by w. Mary, David July 20, 1711; Jonathan
Nov. 27, 1713; Silas March 10, 1715, who went to R. I.; Hannah July
29, 1720, who m. Prince Taylor of Ct.; Thos. Sept. 10, 1725; Benj. Dec.
4, 1727, who went to Portland; and Mary April 1, 1733. David, b.
1711, m. Hannah Cobb, Jan. 29, 1734, and had David Feb. 7, 1735-6,
who m. Hannah Davis 1758; Jonathan Dec. 25, 1737, who set. in S. and
m. Thankful Howland March 19, 1787; Anna Aug. 18, 1742; Asenath
Feb. 28, 1739-40, who m. Linnel; Josiah Sept. 7, 1745, who m. Lewis
and Sturgis; and Edward Sept. 13, 1749, who m. Mary Lothrop.
3	Dea. Chipman was s. of Dea. Samuel b. 1689, who was s. of Dea.
Samuel b. 1661, who was s. of the Elder. Dea. Samuel, b. 1689, inn-
holder, m. Abigail Hinckley Dec. 8, 1715, and 2d, Mary Green 1739.
Issue: a son Aug. 10, 1717, d. inf.; Hannah July 1, 1719; Samuel Nov.
21, 1721, who went to Ct.; Timothy ApriL30, 1723; Eben. Sept. 9, 1726,
who went to Ct.; John June 30, 1728, who went to Ct.; Mary May 2,
1731, who m. Samuel Jenkins March 11, 1750, and went to Gorham;
Nathaniel Jan. 31, 1732-3 ; and Joseph May 26, 1740, died infant. Dea.
Timothy, born 1723, m. Elizabeth Bassett of S. Jan. 23, 1751-2, and
had Abigail, Samuel, Mary, Abigail, William, John, Timothy, and Eliza-
beth. Thomas, brother of Dea. Timothy, removed to Ct.; was Judge
1751, and his son Samuel, who settled in Vermont, was father of Chief
Justice Nathaniel, LL. D. first U. S. Senator from that State, and of
Hon. Daniel, LL. D. Mem. Cong, and Prof. Law. in Mid. Col. Rev. John
bro. b. 1691, grad H. C. 1711, ord. at Beverly 1715, had 15 children, one
of whom, John, was the barrister at Marblehead, whose son, Hon. Ward
Sr. was Judge of Sup. Ct. of New Brunswick 1824, and whose son, Hon.
Ward Jr. LL. D. was Chief Justice. Dea. Barnabas, s. of Dea. Sam’l b.
1702, m. Elisa. Hamblin Feb. 20, 1727-8, and had Barnabas, Joseph, Elisa.
Thomas, and Hannah. Barn aba s, s. of Dea. Barnabas, m. Mary Black-
well of S. 1751, and was father of Dea. Joseph, b. 1758, and others.304
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
tist Church in this town, under the ministry of the
Rev. Enoch Eldridge.1
A covenant was this year made “ with the owners of the fresh
meadows above the great bridge, to build on the S. side of the
causeway a bank of earth, with suitable flood-gate, to keep the
tide from overflowing the meadows.” Mr. Jonathan Crocker was
made a deacon of the West Church this year. In 1773, the sum
voted for schools was £133.6.8. The vote, however, was, at a
subsequent meeting, reconsidered, and the appropriation fixed at
£80. Dea. John Crocker died Feb. 7, aged 90.2
As we are now approaching the time of revolution-
ary conflict, we find important events thickening and
the records furnishing abundant evidence of the part
which this town was to enact in the great contest. In
the month of March, at a town meeting called for the
purpose of considering the political crisis, it was voted
“ that Col. Otis and Daniel Davis, Edward Bacon, and
Nymphas Marston Esqs. be a committee to take into
consideration our rights as stated by a committee of
1	This was not the first church of the denomination in the county. Har-
wich had precedence. It has, however, been suggested as “ not strange
that a Baptist Church should sooner or later spring forth from the
womb of the Barnstable Congregational Church, since the very first in
England was from the 1st Cong. Church, of which the Be. Church is con-
sidered the representative.” History tells that a member neglecting to
have his child baptized was admonished of his duty, but objected to the
validity of the ordinance. Difficulties ensued; the Church asserted its
power of discipline, and a division was the result, — those seceding denying
the validity of infant baptism. Close communion, however, was not with
them a principle. Arrived in Scituate, the same disturbing causes, as we
have seen, existed. The pastor prepared a treatise for the press, — said to
have been ably written, — vindicating infant baptism as Scriptural; and
the work was published in London after the removal of the pastor and
members to this town.
2	See Vol. I. 564. In addition to what is there noted, we may mention
of Dea. John Crocker that it is sd. hem. a 3d w. Nancy, who d. Feb.
7, 1774; also that his dr. Abigail m. Geo. Howland Oct. 28, 1731, and re-
moved to Deerfield; his son Zaccheus m. Elisa. Beals of Hing. 1734; and
his son Ebenezer, b. 1713, “of Cotuit,” m. Elizabeth Lovell July 26,
1739, and 2d, Zervia Winslow, dr. of Konelm Esq. of H. 1746, and had
James Feb. 19, 1739-40; Mary Nov. 7, 1744; Alvan Nov. 6, 1747 ;
Achsah July 24,1749 ; Eben’r July 26, 1751 ; Zervia July 17,1753; Joshua
July 4, 1755; Kenelm Aug. 14,1757; George Feb. 18, 1760; Zenas Dec.
25, 1761 ; and Heman April 14, 1764.ANNALS Of BARNSTABLE.
m
correspondence of the town of Boston, and their in-
fringement by the parent government, and report af-
an adjourned meeting. At the adjourned meeting it
was voted “ to add four others to the committee,” and
“ Mr. Eli Piunnet, Maj. Otis, Mr. Ebenezer Jenkins, and
Capt. David Smith were appointed.”
In 1774, the town chose a committee to join with the commit-
tees from other towns in the county, 6t to consult on measures'
to prevent disorders in the same.” This committee consisted
of Col. James Otis, Maj. Otis, Daniel Davis, Esq. Dr. Hersey, Eli
Phinney, Joseph Hallett, and Geo. Lewis.
The meeting of “ the Body of the People ” assembled in this
town in the month of Sept, has been noted in the County An-
nals. Although the chief and ostensible object had reference to
the court holding under authority of the crown, it will be seen
that there were many and diverse matters that claimed atten-
tion.1
1 In our former vol., in a note, p. 452, we cited a memorable instance, in
which, to use the language of the venerable Dr. James Thacher, “the
tories of Barnstable availed themselves of liberty-pole discipline.” The
account of the transaction was quoted at large with the exception of the
designating initial, which we omitted in conformity with the rule that
governs us, — the avoidance of personalities not essential to the ends of
history. We would not here again advert to the matter, were it not that
in recent serials, purporting to be “ historical,” remarkable perversions —
we would, if possible, charitably hope the intent not wantonly malign,
nor designedly perfidious, the act nevertheless is wholly inexcusable — tend
to mislead the reader, and, if credited, to falsify long-received, universally-
admitted, authentically-recorded, and well-established historical data. The
lady who, by Whig proclivities, had excited the ire of the Tories, is, by a
transposition of facts and parties, made to undergo an entire metamorphosis;
and the barbarous conduct of the Tories in wreaking vengeance on a re-
spectable female, is charged on the opposite party. One who was emphat-
ically her friend, is, by a singular conglomeration and companionship of an-
tagonists in politics, made to participate! Dr. Thacher, b. in this town
Feb. 14, 1754, and, to the time of this Tory outrage, resident here, where
he also studied medicine under the direction of Dr. Abner Hersey, may cer-
tainly be considered a competent witness. He was not only conversant
with the events of the revolutionary period, in his native town and county
especially, but from 1776, seven and a half years, held a commission as sur-
geon in the army, and kept a journal during that period, which, as also
other reminiscences of the struggle for independence, he published. Dur-
ing his protracted life of 90 years,—living until 1844, — he had ample op-
portunity to correct any error, if he had unwarily permitted such to find
its way into the record he had made. His memoranda of events occur-
ring in the place of his nativity, it might be particularly expected would
be correct; and they doubtless were; for their accuracy was never ques-
VOL. II.	89306
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
The letter of instructions given to the representative this
year, is worthy of record : —
“Sir: — You having been chosen our rep.,by a very large ma-
jority, to the Gen. Court to be held at Salem on the 5th day of
tioned. We have confirmation of his accuracy m the present instance.
See Thacher’s Hist. Plym., ed. of 1832, p. 209. New and gratuitous ver-
sions or glosses in derogation of authority — the mere ipse dixit of one un-
born until a quarter of a century after the event which Dr. T. records, be-
ing their only support — are not sufficient for historical verity ; and, when
associated with contumelious fictions respecting distinguished patriots, and
sneering allusion to the liberty-pole as “ m loving proximity with the stocks
and whipping-post,” may be regarded as unworthy of serious notice. It
has been suggested that the enlightened reader, if told that John Hancock,
Patrick Henry, and their compatriots were Tories, and that Gen. Gage, et
id omne genus, were, at worst, moderate Whigs, or that Washington was
a traitor, and Benedict Arnold was the saviour of his country, will not be
misled thereby. The fabulous classification of “ ardent Whigs, moderate
Whigs, out-spoken Tories, and moderate Tories,” it is said, is so simply
amusing and the effort to embroil the living, and to create an impression
that they are hostile, so despicably mean and wicked that the poison is
its own antidote. Be it so; honor and justice may nevertheless require
that arrogance and misrepresentation receive rebuke, even though the in-
firmity be incurable.
Whilst upon this topic of fuliginous distortions of history, we may, for
the honor of humanity, express regret that yet another woman of charac-
ter, she also a widow, a nonagenarian, more than 70 years in her grave,
has received similar undeserved attention, — her repose being disturbed by
the relation of ridiculous tales that disgrace the human intellect, — stories
less dignified than those Talmudical denominated 1 Tim. iv. 7, “ old wives’
fables,'*’ and such as, in a ruder condition of society than we can suppose
ever existed here, weak and ignorant dames, when superannuated, have
sometimes, but with greater purity, used to amuse or frighten children ; the
apology for the recording of such absurd fables, a portion of which
“ There is not chastity enough in language
Without offence to utter,”
being the preposterous pretence of writing history ! Ekeu, jam satis.
The aspersions concocted and slabberingly cast at the fair fame of him,
one of whose distinguishing characteristics was discretion joined with firm-
ness, — which gave him an influence that was often in requisition in cases
peculiarly demanding decision and prudence; and which, on occasion of re-
tirement from military life, drew forth from Hancock the encomium, “An
officer whose patriotic services shone so conspicuously during a long and
arduous revolution which tried the souls of men in whatever station they
were called to act by the voice of their country,” and from Adams, “ The
spirit of Liberty, under whose benevolent guide your conduct has been so
eminently distinguished, is equally recognized in you by the present as by
our lately-departed Commander-in-Chief, and he expresses his confrater-
nity with you in friendship and in the united love of our common country,”
— need no refutation from our pen, nor have we the heart to deprecate the
enjoyment of them by their author. Those invectives may not be inno-
cent, but they a) 3 harmless.
* So morning insects that in muck begun,
Shine, buzz, and fLy blow in their setting sun.”ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
307
October next; notwithstanding your wisdom on which we rely
to manage our public affairs in this time of difficulty, darkness
and distress, we have unanimously voted to give you some in-
structions relative to your conduct in the matter, which we
doubt not will be agreeable to you in such a day as this. We
therefore instruct you, —
“ 1. To do all in your power to have those of our liberties
that are wrested from us by arbitrary measures, restored; and
those that are left, inviolably preserved; and, in order therefor,
that you use your utmost influence that Great Britain and the
Colonies may again be happily united.
“ 2. That in your conjunction with your brethren of the Ho.
of Reps., you use every legal and constitutional method to have
the Port of Boston opened and made as free as before the late
Act of Parliament was made for the blocking up of the same.
“ 3. That you do not in any instance act in conformity to the
late oppressive Act of Parliament, entitled 4 an Act for the bet-
ter regulating the government of the Province of Massachu-
setts Bay in New England.’
“4. That you do not join in any business with the men and
unconstitutional council said to be app. by mandamus in conse-
quence of the before-mentioned Act.
“5. That you join in urging it on the Governor, that he will
be pleased to call to his assistance and advice the standing Coun-
cil of this Province chosen for the current year.
“ 6. In case the Gov. shall dissolve the House of Reps., you
are instructed to join with your brethren to resolve yourselves
into a Provincial Congress, in order to consult and determine
such measures as shall be judged necessary to promote the true
interest of His Majesty, and the peace, welfare, and prosperity
of this Province.
“Lastly, we wish you a prosperous journey, and that you may
have the aid and assistance of the Divine Spirit to guide and
conduct you in your arduous undertaking.”
In 1775, Jan. 4, “a com. of inspection consisting of Col. Otis,
Col. Bacon, Squire Davis, Squire Marston, and Maj. Otis, was
chosen to see that the recommendation of the Congress be carried
into execution so far only as respects imports and exports.” The
town, this year, “ voted not to pay any money into the hands of
Harris n Gray Esq., Treasurer, that was raised for the last Pro-
vincial tax, till further orders ; also, not to pay any money raised
the current year to Henry Gardner Esq., till further ordered.”308
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE- COUNTY.
“The question was put, ‘Will the town provide any further
ammunition?5 and passed in the negative.55 The action of the
town at this time, and on divers occasions; would seem to imply
the existence of antagonistic influences, and the vacillation of
majorities impress the idea. It was subsequently “ voted to pur-
chase a stand of 120 small arms, and ammunition to be added
to the town stock;” and “Col. Otis, Eli Phinney, and Daniel
Davis Esq. were the committee to make the purchases and dis-
pose of them according to their discretion.” That the news of
the Lexington battle rang in the ears of true patriots here, is evi-
dent from the diary kept by that stout-hearted son of liberty, Mr.
Eli Phinney: ‘Thurs., Ap. 20, the news came; Fri. 21, soldiers
mustered — sent off 19 men ;1 Mon., 24, training; Tu. 25, town-
meeting to raise money, buy guns, etc., —voted £300 for a “ chest
of arms ” and ammunition.5
It was “ voted that three military watches be settled in the
town without any charge, and that they be under the direction
of Capts. James Davis, Eben. Jenkins, and Benj. Lumbart.” It
was “ ordered that the money, collected for the Province tax, be
paid to Hy. Gardner Esq.” A com. was also apppointed “ to
confer with Sandwich and Yarmouth for settling a mail post be-
tween here and Boston.55
At a town-meeting, it was “ voted not to send any person to
the Provincial Congress.” This vote was, happily, reconsidered,
and it was then “ voted to send two.” Choice was made of the
former representative, Daniel Davis Esq., and Col. Joseph Otis.
It was “ ordered that all persons refusing to attend military
watches, be prosecuted agreeably to the law of the Province.55 A
large com. of safety was app., and instructed w to give papers to
such vessels as may come into the harbor in stress of weather, or
on business, to go out again, if said com. shall think it safe ; also,
to determine when any person shall be liable to pay a fine for
1 Mr. Tudor, in his 1 Life of Otis,* says of this movement, “ In the front
rank was a young man, the son of a respectable farmer, and his only child.
In marching, from the village, as they passed his house he came out to meet
them. There was a momentary halt. The drum and fife paused for an
instant. The father suppressing a strong and evident emotion, said, ‘ God
be with you all, my friends; and John, my son, if you are called into
battle, take care that you behave like a man, or else let me never again
see your face.' The march was resumed, whilst a tear started in every
eye.” And, says Mr. Palfrey, in his Centennial, “Well it might; the
rhetoric of that speech may not be Greek, but the spirit was, — it was
Spartan. There is commonly something else to be said to only sons who
are walking up to a. ridg* of bayonets.”ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
809
not attending his watch when properly warned; and, to settle
all other disputes that may come before them from any aggrieved
party—that shall not interfere with the recommendations of
Congress.” It was also voted “ to procure 3} bis. of powder to
be added to the town’s stock; ” the com. to which was assigned
this duty were Joseph Otis, Nymphas Marston, and Sturgis
Gorham.
In 1776, are found indications that may be con-
strued affirmative of the theorem that leading men
here were singularly embroiled. The merits of the
case are not easily understood or explainable; but
the influence on public affairs is apparent. In times
of public calamity, private griefs and personal ani-
mosities ought not to interfere with hearty and
united co-operation for the general weal; but man-
kind are not so constituted that they are invari-
ably, and without exception, patriotic and magnani-
mously unselfish. A committee was appointed early
this year “ to inquire into the grievances generally
this town labors under, and why persons are taken by
an armed force and carried out of the county for trial
without being examined first by the com. of safety.”1
A com. was also app. “ to confer with commiss’rs from
other towns in the county, for redress of grievances.”
Capt. Jenkins, Esq. Marston, and Joseph Davis were
the committee.
At a town-meeting held June 25, the momentous
subject introduced the 9th day of the previous May to
the Ho. of Reps., “that the several towns in the
colony be recommended to give instructions to their
representatives with respect to a declaration by Con-
gress of the independence of the United Colonies,” and
which, on the 5th, assumed its final shape in these
1 Reference is had, undoubtedly, to resolves under which offenders against
“ the liberties of the colonies ” were to be arrested and brought before the
General Court. See p. 223.310
HISTOBY OF BAKNSTABLE COUNTY.
words: “Resolved, as the opinion of this House, That
the inhabitants of each town in the Colony ought, in
full meeting warned for the purpose, to advise the
person or persons who shall be chosen to represent
them in the next General Court, whether, if the hon-
orable Congress shall, for the safety of the Colonies,
declare them independent of the kingdom of Great
Britain, they the said inhabitants will solemnly en-
gage with their lives and fortunes to support Con-
gress in the measure,” came up for consideration, and
elicited a warm and protracted debate. The vote on
the question proposed was in the negative, 30 to 35.
When first we read in Gordon’s History of the
American Revolution, the passage: “ Barnstable in
New England and Ridgfield in Connecticut,1 have dis-
tinguished themselves in adopting measures different
from the other towns in their respective colonies,” we
were led to pause with surprise that our patriotic shire-
town should be thus presented. Our perplexity was not
lessened by contemporaneous publications;2 and, al-
1	We must pardon it in an Englishman that he did not know that both
Massachusetts and Connecticut were parts of New England, and must bear
in mind that these colonies were little known to either statesmen or literati
of the parent country; indeed, at the present day, English writers do not
exhibit much improvement either in knowledge of the geography of our
country, or of its polity.
2	A prominence was given to this matter, in publications of the day, that
obliges us to be the more minutely exact. See Boston Gazette of July 8,
1776: “ The question being put . . ‘whether, if the Cont. Cong, shall judge
expedient to declare the United Colonies independent, they, the inhabitants,
will support the measure at the hazard of life and estate ? * it passed in the
negative. Upon which, a number of respectable inhabitants, judging such
procedure to have a tendency to disunite the colonies and injure the
cause of their country, did, at said meeting publicly protest against it,—
hoping thereby to avoid the imputation of acquiescence in so dishonorable
a measure.” The preceding editorial led to a communication from “ an in-
habitant of the town,” July 11, to a paper published by Willis & Powers.
The article treated the former announcement as “ a mortifying and artful
misrepresentation and malevolent aspersion of the town.” It also charged
the Protestants with having “ styled themselves respectable gentlemen,”
and alleged that the article in the Gazette was “ destitute of truth.” A re-
joinder appeared in Edes’ Gazette, on the 29th, from a leading patriot,
with a request for the publication of the protest itself. We might give inANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
311
though we are not indisposed to attribute, as do others,
some things that appear on the records to want of
full the communication of June 11, to which we have referred, and also
the exceeding spicy rejoinder by Gen. Joseph Otis, dated July 18 ; but as
no good can be accomplished by spreading upon these pages mere personal
controversies, not necessarily of historical interest, we forbear, only making
a few excerpts indispensable to a full view of the case. Gen. O., address-
ing Mr. Edes, after alluding to “ the mortification ” of his assailant, at
the appearance of “ a piece dressed up in the form of a protest,” and his
“ begging the candid public to suspend judgment,” says, “ Who dressed
up the piece I pretend not to say; but surely the gent, shows but little
address in taxing the protesters against a proceeding of town-meeting with
‘ artfully misrepresenting ’ in an article of intelligence, which, he also in-
sinuates, was ‘ a malevolent aspersion of the town ’ — the protesters being
to a man unacquainted with the piece until it appeared in your paper.
Nor has he ‘ the truth for his foundation * when he says ‘ the protesters call
themselves respectable gentlemen ’ — for, in truth, they have hitherto been
silent, and the paragraph in your paper only styles them ‘ respectable in-
habitants' An unfortunate advocate for truth and candor this, to appear
in the first part of his performance destitute of both. I pronounce the ac-
count of the town-meeting neither true nor false; nor do I determine
whether, all the circumstances considered, a negative upon the question of
instructing was a negative upon the question of Independence; though, if
the inference was natural, unavoidable, the account of our town-meeting
had ‘ the truth for its foundation/ But, if the question was mistaken, or
even ‘ artfully ’ stated, I see not how the protesters are responsible. As a
protester, an inhabitant, and one at the meeting, I join issue with this ‘ mor-
tified’ young man, state facts, and leave the public to draw inferences.
After it was debated largely whether the town would give any instructions
to their reps., the question was put by ayes and nays ; 30 appeared for in-
structing, 35 against it. There was a long debate about declaring inde-
pendency ; one said it ‘was 4 downright rebellion; * another — a staunch
friend of Gov. Hutchinson — said, 1 our trade is as free as if we were inde-
pendent/ These were virulently against the motion; and such like weighty
arguments, I suppose, obtained a majority against instructing. . . I have no
wish to set the town in a less reputable light. It is my opinion that if a
certain party had not by their boisterous, illiberal behavior, intimidated
the major part not to act,—for of 140 voters present, 65 only voted,—
the question would have been carried in favor of instructing, and the town
would have been saved its credit, at least in this affair. The unprovoked
attack upon me, and other protesters, has drawn me into public view on
this occasion, supposing my silence would be deemed a tacit acknowledg-
ment of wrong — which is all my inducement to answer. The sneers of a
little emissary . . of a desperate cabal are as contemptible as their unre-
mitting malice and abuse. Happy in conscious integrity, though the love
of my country and my efforts in her service have opened upon me the
throats of deep-mouthed mastiffs as well as the occasional barking of lesser
curs.” It may here be compassionately remarked, that the person whose at-
tack on the protesters drew forth the preceding reply, was evidently disturbed
by the vote which he had helped to perpetrate ; for his principal complaint
was, that, by publishing the simple facts, the town was “ placed in a dis-
reputable light,” subjecting some to great “ mortification.” All this in one
short month, must be regarded as a favorable indication of returning good
sense. Perhaps the reverberations of the old Liberty-bell, on Independence
Hall, ringing its joyful peal, had already reached his ear.. 812
HISTORY OF BARNSTAHLE .COUNTY.
unity and concert of action growing out of persoml
pique, rather than lack of patriotism; and, although
various transactions analogous and explanatory seem
to relieve the above vote of somewhat of its odium, we
cannot but regard the omission to comply, pro forma,
with the request of the General Court preferred at so
eventful a moment, as much to be regretted. The re-
sponse from all other towns, promptly and cheerfully
rendered, furnished a spectacle truly sublime. That
there should be any exception is unfortunate; although
perhaps it is wonderful that there was only one (and
that, it may be, only a seeming exception) to mar the
perfect unanimity of the movement. The negative,
as might have been expected, occasioned much feel-
ing, and drew forth the following protest: —
“ We, the subscribers, inhabitants of the town of Barnstable,
protest against the proceedings of said town at their meeting
held on Tuesday, 25th June inst., respecting the giving of their
representatives instructions with regard to the Independency
of the Colonies as was recommended to the several towns in this
colony by way of a Resolve from the House of Representatives:
And as a vote was put in said meeting to know whether the town
would proceed to give any instructions to their representatives
agreeably to the aforesaid recommendation; which was carried in
the negative: And judging it to be our duty to protest against
such vote, we do it for the following reason : — We think such a
measure as proposed in said resolve to be the most salutary that
can be gone into for the safety and well-being of the colonies
under our present oppressed situation; and as it is the duty of
every individual to give his voice in favor of the aforesaid rec-
ommendation, in case the honorable Cont. Congress see cause to
declare these colonies entirely independent, We are ready and
willing to stand by such a declaration if it shall take place, to
the uttermost of our power with our lives and estates; And be-
ing very unwilling that the aforesaid Vote be passed over in
silence, for fear of offending our own consciences in being
thought to acquiesce in so strange a vote of the town; and, of
offending our Countrymen and Brethren in other towns, whoANNALS OF BARNSTABLE).
313
may go into contrary measures; entirely abhorring any princi-
ples but what are for the good of the United Colonies of Amer-
ica; and detesting those arguments brought by some men at
said meeting to dissuade the people from complying with the
said recommendation; We take this method of letting the pub-
lic know our dissent from the aforesaid proceedings of the town,
having no other way to make our sentiments known. And we
request that this Protest may be entered in the town book, to
let posterity know that there were a few in this town who dared
to stand forth in favor of an injured and oppressed Country
treated with every species of wickedness used by tyranny to en-
slave mankind, and that it is matter of great grief to us that the
Cause of Liberty is treated with such indignity by some of
the inhabitants of the town of Barnstable. Barnstable, June 26,
1776” Signed by
Nathan Bassett,
David Smith,
Job Howland,
James Davis,
“ Joseph Otis,
Thomas Ann able,
Benjamin Smith,
Zacheus Howland,
Joseph Jenkins,
Joseph Smith,
Freeman Parker,
John Crocker Jr.,
Cornelius Lovell,
Seth Lothrop,
Benoni Crocker,
John Blish,
Nathaniel Howland, Edmund Hawes,
Ebenezer Lothrop, John Russell,
Binney Baker, Charles Conant.”
Jonathan Hallet,
At a town meeting, July 23, it was “ voted to read a
protest signed by a number of inhabitants, published
in the Watertown papers of the 8th inst.after the
reading of which it was “ voted that the piece pub-
lished in the Watertown newspaper, called ‘a protest
of a number of respectable inhabitants of the town
of Barnstable,’ signed by Joseph Otis and 14 others,1
is a wrong and injurious representation of the pro-
ceedings of the town”2
1 The article to which reference is here made, it will be perceived, is not
•the protest itself, but the account given of the meeting iij the Watertown
paper, and which communication or editorial says fifteen protesters.
* One ground of this action, — and, perhaps, important,— was said to be,
that the vote of the town was intended to be, “ not to give any instructions,
but leave the matter to the representatives when at the Gen. Court” If so
put, the 35 said to have voted in the negative were really affirmative of
this form of resolution. The fact, however, that 75 legal voters present
did not answer to their names, shows that there was much confusion and a
general misunderstanding of the nature of the question.
VOL. II.	4U314
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
A State Convention being now proposed, — to be composed
of the House of Representatives and the Council,— this town
“ voted that we do consent, if they convent together in one body,
and by equal voice consult and enact such Constitution and
Form of Government for this State as they, on the fullest and
most mature deliberation, shall judge will most conduce to the
safety, peace, and happiness of the State in all after successions
and generations, and that they do direct the same to be made
public for the instruction, perusal, and information of the inhab-
itants before the ratification thereof by the Assembly, — in order
that this town may approve or disapprove of the same.” It was
also “ voted to give the selectmen instructions to offer an addi-
tion of £1 to each private soldier and non-commissioned officer
who shall enlist for three months, over the amount given by the
General Court; and that one month’s pay be advanced to each
when they shall be ordered to march.” A schedule of prices
was arranged here, this year, as in other towns. An appropria-
tion of £100 was made for a Grammar School.
In 1777, March 18, “Daniel Davis, Edward Bacon, and Nym-
phas Marston Esqs., with Capt. Ebenezer Jenkins, were appointed
to meet in conjunction with commissioners from other towns in
the county, to consider the state of the county at large, and in
behalf of said county to represent all public grievances that the
county does at present labor under, and by decent remonstran-
ces and petitions to obtain from the General Court, the guardi-
ans of the rights and liberties of the people, redress of the
same.” A committee of nine, consisting of Edward Bacon,
Nymph as Marston Esqs., and seven others, were appointed to
meet a committee of the General Court; and it was “voted that
this committee of the town be directed to attend upon the Gen-
eral Court committee at Sandwich and desire them to come to
Barnstable ; and, if they cannot obtain that, to wait upon them
at Sandwich, agreeably to a letter from said committee, and lay
before them the difficulties this town and a number of persons
belonging to this town, labor under; and also to support a peti-
tion of this town, and answer a memorial said to be in answer
to said petition, and to procure evidence to support the same.”
Capt. Jenkins being chosen to represent the town in General
Court, a committee was appointed, May 20, “to draw up instruc-
tions for his action in that body, to meet in the State House in
Boston.” This committee consisted of Capt. Samuel Crocker,
Edward Bacon Esq., Capt. Samuel Hinckley, Lt. Joseph Blish,ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
315
and Capt. Benjamin Gorham. These instructions were in char-
acter and spirit similar to those given to his predecessors; not
doubting his wisdom, they enjoin the greatest caution and delib-
eration in all the great affairs of the government in a time of
great public distress and danger, and to use his influence to provide
for the safe y of this State and the other United States of Amer-
ica, and in providing for the annoyance of the common enemy.
“We farther instruct you to use your utmost endeavors and in-
fluence that it be recommended by the General Court to the
several towns, as soon as may be to choose delegates to meet in
congress for the purpose of forming a plan of Civil Government
for this State.” The town “ voted to have one Grammar School,’'
and raised £400 for its support. A committee was appointed “ to
supply the families of the soldiers who are in the Continental
service from this town, agreeably to a resolve of the General
Court.” And, Dec. 11, a committee was appointed “ to draft a
petition to the Court relative to the Act for calling in the State’s
money, — the measure being alarming, and threatening ruin to
the people.” Nymphas Marston Esq., Edward Bacon Esq., and
Mr. Joseph Davis were this committee. The report was accept-
ed, and the petition forwarded. Dea. Jesse Cobb died in De-
cember of this year, aged 72.
In 1778, Feb. 3, a committee was chosen “to take into consid-
eration the Articles of Confederation and Perpetual Union be-
tween the United States of America, agreed upon by the hon-
orable, the Continental Congress.”1 This committee consisted
1 Mr. Palfrey says, 44 * The Plymouth spirit which, nearly a century before,
had been shy of a union with Massachusetts, was now equally averse to
any approach to a consolidated government which should implicate the
concerns of Massachusetts too much with those of other States of a different
parentage; and it is striking to see how early was urged, among the vigi-
lant yeomanry of our towns, that doctrine which, since more matured and
applied to a different instrument, has been known as the Virginia and
Carolina doctrine of State Rights. 4 It appears to us/ say the Barnstable
instructions to their representatives,4 that the power of Congress is too great.
If the power of borrowing money and emitting bills of credit without any
limitation or check, also regulating and directing the whole land and naval
force of the States, is forever hereafter vested in one supreme power, the
future General Congress, we have no great consolation in contemplating
the sovereignty, freedom, independence, power, jurisdiction, and right with
them remaining. You are, accordingly, to use your influence that none of
these general powers be forever delegated to future Congresses. But if,
during the present arduous conflict with Great Britain, it may be judged
necessary to vest such extra powers in a Continental Congress, we will
trust that you will use your endeavors that the same shall be but tem-
porary, and forever determine at the conclusion of the present unhappy
war/ ”HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
316
of Edward Bacon, Nymph as Marston, Samuel Crocker, Joseph
Davis, and Thomas Crocker. “The selectmen and com. of cor.”
were required “ to enlist the men wanted to make up the town’s
quota for the army for two years, if they can ; but if they can-
not be obtained for that time, then for 8 months, and hire the
money for the purpose.” The report of the com. on the articles
of confederation says, “ We are with great propriety called upon
by our patriotic rulers to offer our sentiments on matters pe-
culiarly interesting not only to the present, but future genera-
tions. We are actuated by a fervent zeal for the most permanent
freedom and happiness of the United States of America; and
speak our sentiments with freedom on a matter of so much im-
portance as that of the Grand Charter of American Liberty.
The articles have generally our hearty approbation.” The
special characteristics of this able report the reader will find
embodied in the note.
Daniel Davis, Nymphas Marston, and Eben’r Jenkins, Esq’rs,
were chosen a com. of correspondence, inspection, and safety.
Liberty was “ granted to Capt. Sturgis Gorham to build a store-
house, 40 by 30 feet, and also a wharf, on the landing belonging to
the town, at Lewis’s Cove, Hyannis.” The town engaged to pay
the soldiers wanted, to send to Peekskill, for nine months, £10
per month, including the wages and bounty allowed by the
State; also, to the men enlisted to go to Providence. The town
appointed a large com. to assist the selectmen in filling up the
quota required, and the men not being found, an addition of £2
per month was offered; and Maj.Sbearjashub Bourne and Messrs.
Sam’l and William Crocker were delegated to represent to gov-
ernment “the difficulties attending the raising of men in the
town of Barnstable.” Capt. Sam’l Crocker, Joseph Hallet, Edw.
Bacon Esq., Lt. Joseph Blish, and Shearj. Bourne Esq. were also
a com. “to request other towns in the county to unite in conven-
tion for the purpose of petitioning the General Court for abate-
ment of the county’s quota of men for the public service abroad,
— in consideration of the peculiar situation and circumstances of
the towns on the Cape; also to act on any other matters consist-
ent with the public good and safety that may come before them.”
It was further “ voltd, that Col. Bacon and Capt. Gorham, the
reps, from this town, endeavor to have the report of the honora-
ble committee of the General Court sent to this town to hear
and settle grievances the last year, revived and acted upon.” The
amount raised for town expenses this year, *vas £1,300, old tenor.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
817
Solomon Otis Esq., register of deeds, d. this year, Jan. 2,
aged 82; Melatiah Bourne Esq. died Sept. 9, aged 50;1 and*
Col. James Otis d. Nov. 9, aged 76. That terrible storm, in
which the privateer, Arnold, which sailed from Boston Dec. 25,
was driven ashore near Plymouth on the 26th, was fatal to num-
bers of men belonging to this town. That out of the 78 who
perished, ten belonged here is a fact significant of the service
rendered by the Cape towns upon the seas, in addition to the ex-
actions made upon them for the land service. The naval service,
on the patriot side, in the revolutionary war, was chiefly by pri-
vate-armed vessels. Among those frozen to death on this fatal-
night, were Capt. John Russell commander of marines, Lt.
Daniel Hall, Tho’s Case ley, Barnabas Howes Jr., Jona.
Lothrop Jr.,-------Bacon s. of Jona., John Berry, Jesse Gar-
rett, Boston Crocker colored, and Indian of Barna. Chipman.
These were all buried at Plymouth. Barnabas Lothrop Jr.
was badly frozen, and died after reaching home. Barnabas
Downes was resuscitated, and survived with the loss of both
feet.
The town was, about this time, exercised by a matter of both
personal and public nature, but so largely personal that we doubt
the expediency of its transfer to these pages; especially as we
are well satisfied that old animosities, and particularly private
1 Mr. Bourne, b. 1722, s. of Hon. Sylvanus, m. Mary Bayard, niece of
Gov. Bowdoin, and had Sylvanus, capt. and consul at Amsterdam; Mela-
tiah, who m. Olive Gorham, and had Melatiah, Sylvanus, Olive the mother
of Maj. S. B. Phinney; Sarah, who m. Col. Greaton of the revolutionary
army, who was killed by Indians under St. Clair; and Mary. Mr. B. was
some time of Boston, and September 3, 1780, we find his widow petition-
ing that the probate of his will may be transferred to Boston, her late hus-
band “ having fled from that place when the town was in possession of Br.
troops, and d. in Be.” The will, Sept. 8, 1778, says, “late of Boston, now
of Be.; ” gives to “ wife Mary the use and improvement of my dwelling-
house and gardens in Milk St., Boston ; to my drs. Mary and Sarah liberty
to live in said house so long as single; to my wife my best chaise and black
horse, and silver tankard that was her grandfather’s; to my son Melatiah
my silver-hilted sword, silver spurs, brass-barrelled pistols silver mounted,
and my horse, saddle and bridle, all now in the hands of Nathanfl Clap,
Esq.; to my s. Sylvanus my gold watch and seal set in gold, etc. and £100;
to my daughters my best scarlet cloak; to my brother Richard a watch and
good beaver hat, and to his wife £20; to my brother-in-law, Isaac Hinck-
ley Esq. £30 in consideration of boarding my two drs.; my Negro Scipio
to serve till 25 years old, and then set free with £20; the balance of real
estate to my four children ; personal, consisting of mort. bonds, notes, ac •
counts, plate, etc. to my wife one-fourth, the other three-fourths to my four
children. Executors, wife Mary, H$v.. John Pitts, Mr. Jno. White, and
Isaac Hinckley Esq.318
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
pique, may have been at the foundation of the whole difficulty,
Suffice to say, the town voted, Dec. 16, “to act on the request of
a number of freeholders relative to a remonstrance and petition
exhibited to the General Court.” Capt. Samuel Crocker, Lt. Jo-
seph Blish, and Mr. Joseph Hallett were appointed a committee
to present resolutions embodying the views of the meeting; and
these, being adopted, were ordered upon record, and a copy laid
before the House of Reps., reprobating, in strong terms, the act
of the leading townsman and 28 others who had signed the me-
morial asking, on political grounds, the displacement of a repre-
sentative.
In 1779, a precept having been issued requiring the election of
a representative, under circumstances disapproved by a majority
of the citizens, — compliance was refused.1 It was voted this
year to raise £450, old tenor, for one grammar and two common
schools. The town was now divided into three districts; two
on the north side, and one on the south.
Edward Bacon and Nymphas Marston, Esqs. were chosen
delegafes, July 22, to the convention to meet in Cambridge Sept.
1, for forming a new Constitution, agreeably to a resolve of the
General Court 15th June last. The difficulties attending the
procurement of soldiers for the Continental army, necessitated
the offering of almost any and all kinds of inducements over and
1 The majority regarded recent political movements as “ an attempt
to undermine and destroy the invaluable right of free election and repre-
sentation.” A com. composed of Nympnas Marston, Sturgis Gorham,
Sam’l Crocker, Sarn’l Hinckley, and Isaac Hinckley, reported on the sub-
ject, and resolutions highly approbatory of the late incumbent, and denun-
ciatory of those who would prevent the town being “ represented by the
person of our choice, — in whose honor and fidelity to this State and the
U. S. of America, as well as in his abilities, we can place the strongest
confidence.” We heartily indorse, in its main feature, the suggestion cf
Mr. Palfrey in his Barnstable Centennial, that “ In the strong excitement
which acted on men’s minds, and the diversity of opinions which from time
to time actually arose on the practical question whether in a given case,
measures of greater energy or greater caution would best accomplish the
end alike aimed at by all,” suspicions of coolness in the cause may have at-
tached without sufficient reason to some who were truly patriotic. The full
benefit of such construction is due in the present instance. The application
of the remark, however, must be limited; we cannot say, as Mr. P. seems
to imply, that the same patriotic end was “aimed at by all”—for there
were, here, as elsewhere, most arrant tones, whose constant aim was to em-
barrass the government, thwart its designs, fault its every measure, render
unpopular its agents, and prostrate the cause. It is always unfortunate for
a good man to receive the suffrages of such persons. Their design in the
selection may be obvious, but their support is fatal.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
319
beyond the regular pay,—especially by such as being drafted, or
being liable to draft, were exposed to be called from home.1
A letter being received from the town of Boston, inviting this
town to meet by delegation those to be appointed by other
towns, to assemble at Concord to adopt measures for regulating
the currency, Shearj. Bourne Esq., Col. David Gorham, and Capt.
Sturgis Gorham were assigned this duty. The town agreed to
the several measures reported by that convention. Mr. James
Child died November 2, aged 85.2
In 1780, May 2, Shearj. Bourne, Edward Bacon, Jos. Otis, and
twelve others, were chosen “ to take into consideration the pro-
posed new Constitution; ” and, May 28, “ the Constitution and
form of government as it stood was, in open town meeting, re-
jected 74 to 10, and with amendments accepted 54 to 2. A com-
mittee was then appointed to take the report into a fair draft
and transmit it.” The General Court was petitioned “ to release
the town from fines imposed for not raising in time the whole
quota of soldiers;” and a committee was appointed “to procure
at once 86 able-bodied men to enlist for 6 months, $20 per month
in silver to be paid by the town in addition to the regular State
pay.” Extraordinary efforts were called forth, the town was di-
vided into districts, agents were sent to each, the selectmen hired
money to pay the recruits, and to encourage enlistments private
citizens contributed money, produce, etc. Again, three months'
men were required; Maj. Hamblin was “ desired by the town to
enlist them.” Next came a requisition for more beef,\	The
quantity which this town was required to furnish was 5510 lbs.
It was not possible to supply the amount, and, Oct. 16, Brigadier
Otis, CoL Bacon, and Col. Gorham were appointed “ to represent
to the Court the circumstances of the town.” Gen. Otis was
also requested to state to the Council the impossibility of obtain-
ing soldiers, and to ask that the town be excused for the present
from drafting. Edward Bacon Esq. was with others appointed
1	On one occasion this year, the following sums were paid for a short
term of service: to Thomas Whelden and son £100 each, old tenor; Lot
Hathaway, 36 bu. corn; Benj. Fuller, £100; Frs. Garrow, 40 bu. corn ;
Benj. Crocker, £3 and 40 bu. corn; Clark Backhouse, £48 and 20 bushels
com; and to Edw. Casey £100, old tenor.
2	Mr. James Child, b. 1694, s. of Rd.,m. Elisa. Crocker Sept. 27, 1722,
and had Sam! July 15, 1723 ; James Ap. 22, 1725 ; Elisa. Dec. 20, 1730,
who m. Dan’l Crocker May 19, 1748; Sarah Ap. 9, 1736, who m. Jona.
Crocker May 2, 1754 ; Thankful Aug. 4, 1741, who m. Jos. Lawrence of S.
Mar. 27, 1760 ; and Rich’d March 22, 1743-4, who d. 1805, aged 61.320
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
to petition “ to have the fine of £6000, now imposed for not
procuring the quotas of men for the army in 1779, remitted.”
The amount voted this year for current expenses was £10,000
old tenor. An additional tax was assessed “ for soldiers’ pay,”
and £470 was to be raised in silver. One grammar school mas-
ter was employed. The selectmen were directed, Nov. 22, “to!
write to the selectmen of the several towns in the county setting
forth the fact that this county is greatly overtaxed by govern-
ment, and proposing a convention to represent to the General
Court the unhappy state of affairs, and pray for some abatement
of the county taxes.” Gen. Otis, Col. Gorham, Col. Bacon, Dan-
iel Davis Esq., and Thos. Crocker were subsequently appointed
delegates to said convention; and, at the same meeting, it was
“ ordered that the 3 months’ soldiers who went out in the public
service on the credit of the town, be paid at the rate of $72 in
paper for $1 of silver.” A committee was appointed, Dec. 26,
“to enquire into the state of provisions in this town.” Mr. Jo-
siah Crocker died May 4, 1780, aged 35.1
In 1781, Jan. 9, it was, in town meeting, “voted that this town
is not able to raise any sum whatever as a bounty for soldiers
and fulfil our former engagements.” Brig. Otis, and Edw. Bacon
and Isaac Hinckley Esqs. were requested “ to take the remon-
strance and petition, which the former committee laid before the
town, into a fair draft, and make alterations if needed, and for-
ward it to the General Court by Esq. Marston.” It was also
“ ordered that stocks and whipping-post be provided as by law
required.”
Another effort was projected, March 20, for the raising of men
for the army. Brig. Otis, Maj. Hamblin, Thos. Crocker, and Edw.
Bacon Esq. were a committee to hire thirty men for three years’
service, and money was to be hired “ to pay each man who en-
lists $20 per month hard money.” Again, “ the distresses and dif-
ficulties the town labors under” were, July 4, to be the subject
of a memorial to the General Court, and Messrs. Edw. Bacon,
Sam’l Hinckley, Joseph Otis, Sam’l Crocker, and Eleazer Scud-
der were appointed “to join with the representative in present-
ing said memorial to the Court and enforcing the same.” These,
we must suppose, were times of trouble and distress; they cer-
xMr. C. grad. H. C. 1765. He devoted his time chiefly to school-teach-
I was nine years town clerk. He is said to have “ had some poeticANNALS OP BARNSTABLE.
321
tainly were times of exaction. The town was now, July 23,
called on for more soldiers; men must be raised for West Point
and Rhode Island; and the town “ voted $12 per month to each
recruit, exclusive of State pay, — one month’s wages in advance.”
The town having been presented for not furnishing its quota of
provisions for the army, Lt. Jedediah Jones was delegated “ to
ascertain upon what terms the execution may be settled.” It
was again voted, Nov. 27, “to petition for abatement of taxes”
Two grammar school masters were employed this year. Mrs
James Coleman died April 15, aged 77.
In 1782, Jan. 9, Messrs. Edw. Bacon, Joseph Otis, etc., were
appointed “to draw instructions to our representative;” and,
Jan. 21, E. Bacon Esq., Shearj. Bourne Esq., and Capt. Samuel
Hinckley were appointed “ to draft a petition and assist the rep-
resentative in enforcing the town’s call for relief from oppressive
exactions.” The General Court appointed a committee from its
own body “ to visit the town of Barnstable and examine into
the circumstances set forth in the plea of poverty and distress.”
Messrs. Bacon, Marston, and others, were appointed by the town
to wait on said committee, etc.
Nov. 21, E. Bacon Esq. and two others were appointed “to
draw instructions for the representative with respect to granting
one-half pay to the officers of the Continental army for a certain
number of years.” Capt. Stephen Davis died this year, Jan. 4,
aged 81.1
In 1783, the Rev. Mr. Hilliard, of the East Church,
requested a dismission from his pastoral charge, on
account of impaired health.2 This was granted, April
30. The same year, Nov. 12, Rev. John Mellen was
ordained the successor.3 Mr. Nathaniel Lewis was
made a deacon of the same church, April 23; and Mr.
1	Capt. Davis, b. 1700, s. of Josiah, had by his w. Rebecca, Prince 1724,
who m. Sarah Coleman 1750, and had a family, removing in 1760 to Gor-
ham; Anne 1726, who m. Benj. Cobb; Isaac 1729, who m. Hannah Davis
and had Isaac 1764; Rebecca 1731, who m. Benj. Childs; Susan 1734, who
m. Solo. Otis; Sarah 1737, who m. John Bacon Jr.; Stephen 1740 ; Abi-
gail 1743 ; Thankful 1746, who m. Samuel Smith; and Jonathan Oct. 1,
1749.	----
2	Rev. Mr. H. was afterwards installed at Cambridge. He was from
Kensington, N. H., aid grad. H. C. 1764.
8 Rev. Mr. M. was b. at Sterling, and grad. H. C. 1770.
VOL. II.	41322
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Lot Nye deacon of the West Church, Aug. 12. The
appropriation for schools this year, and also for several
succeeding years, was £150. Dan’l Davis Esq., Nym-
phas Marston Esq., Capt. Sam’l Hinckley, Capt. Sam’l
Crocker, and Gen. Joseph Otis were appointed “ to
unite with commissioners from Sandwich and other
towns in the county in petitioning for relief under
our present distressing circumstances.” Hon. Edward
Bacon died this year, March 16, aged 68;1 and Capt.
David Lawrence died Oct. 3, aged 35.
In 1784, it was “voted to allow Cornelius Crocker’s
bill for boarding the legislative committee that came
to view the country.” The amount of that bill, it
may be remarked, was only nineteen shillings; a very
moderate charge surely. We know not how long the
committee bivouacked with the landlord; but our mind
unavoidably reverts to exactions at the present day,
— especially when an opportunity is given to enter-
tain dignitaries sent on public business. In justice also
to the committee of “ the Great and General Court,”
it is proper to add that the bill of expenses incurred
by their entertainment affords presumptive evidence
that the day in which they served the public was not
noted for extravagance. Public functionaries seem
not to have learned the luxury of consuming at a sin-
gle sitting entire boxes of costly regalias, nor had
they an ear for the music of the pop of corks of in-
credibly numerous bottles of sparkling champagne.
Certes, the gentlemen constituting this embassy were
“well cared for,” for the Cape was always proverbial
1 Hon. Edwd. Bacon we have mentioned with particularity, Yol. I. 354.
Ho man enjoyed in a greater degree the undeviating support of a majority
of his fellow-townsmen; no one here was so often called to preside at town
meetings, or was oftener on important committees. If, in times of warm
political excitement, doubts of his true fealty to his country’s interests were
engendered in the minds of any, his life demonstrated his integrity and
patriotic intent He died universally respected and greatly lamented.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
323
for its excellent and abundant fare, as were its inn*
for their moderate charges. Mr. Cornelius Crocker
died this year, Dec. 12, aged 80.1
In 1785, a petition was preferred for an act restraining the
cutting of wood on Sandy Neck; the object being to protect
the meadows from the inroads of drifting sands. A suitable
passage was “ ordered to be opened at Stacy’s Mill, for alewives.”
The Court was requested to enact “ that the Great Bridge be
henceforward a County charge.” The representative was in-
structed “ to oppose the issue of paper money and the making of
the same a lawful tender, as also the making of lands a lawful
tender.” A bounty was offered for the destruction of crows, jays,
blackbirds, and foxes.
Thus do we find the citizens relieved from the per-
plexities and ever-increasing expenses of the war for
independence, bestowing at once their chief attention
on local improvements, and relapsing into that quietude
of daily avocations that may often appear to the cas-
ual observer an approximate to dulness. The travel-
ler, in passing through portions of the township, has
sometimes remarked the existing quiet, — making per-
haps an exception in behalf of the ports on the south
side. An agricultural town is not usually noted for
its noisy activity; and, in prosperous times, the em-
ployment of many of the most active here, as in other
Cape towns, has been on the sea. Mr. Joseph Hallet
1 Mr. Cornelius Crocker, b. 1701, s. of Sam’l, m. Lydia Jenkins Nov.
9, 1727, who d. Aug. 5, 1773, aged 68, and had Elijah April 12, 1729; Eli-
sha Sept. 14, 1730 ; Samuel July 29, 1732; Joseph Ap. 12, 1734 ; Lydia
Ap. 14, 1739, who m. Capt. Sam’l Sturgis 3d, who d. 1762, aged 25, and
she Ap. 9, 1826, aged 86 ; Cornelius Aug. 21, 1740 ; Josiah Dec. 20,1744;
and Sarah 1749, who m. David Lawrence, and d. Feb. 21, 1825, aged 76.
Capt. Samuel, b. 1732, m. Elisa. Lumbert, and 2d, her sister Anna, and
had Abigail, Elij., Elisa., Anna who m. Isaac Bacon Jr., Elisha, Ezek’l, and
Susanna who m. John Bursley. Joseph, b. 1734, m. Elisa. Davis, and
had Joseph and Mary. Cornelius Jr., b. 1740, m. Abiah Hinckley, and
had Naler 1773, and Asa 1776. The father d. early, and his wid. d. June 7,
1823, ae. 77. Josiah, b. 1744, grad. H. C. 1765, m. Deborah Davis, dr.
Hon. Daniel, Oct. 6, 1765, and had Robert, Uriel, Josiah, Deborah, who
m. John Lothrop, and Mehitable, wh m. Joseph Parker. The father d.
1780; his wid. m. Benj. Gorham Jr.324
HISTuRY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
was made a deacon of the East Church this year; and
Mr. Daniel Lovell died.
In 1786, we find the inhabitants notified by order of the town
to turn out and work on the Great Bridge; and the surveyor is
instructed “ to procure, at the expense of the town, as much rum
as he shall judge necessary for the workmen;” — the latter pro-
vision is worthy of mention only as illustrating the universal
practice at this period. Mr. Joseph Lewis kept one of the town
schools this year, at his own house, and was allowed for three
weeks and three days service, £3.11.2.
In 1787, agents were appointed “to procure schoolmasters and
settle the schools.” For the support of schools £100 lawful
money was raised. The delegates to the Convention to be held
in Boston, “for acting on the matter of a Constitution or frame
of government for the U. S. of A.,” were Nymphas Marston and
Sheaij. Bourne Esqs. Doct. Abner Hersey died this year,
Jan. 9, ae. 65.1
In 1788, it was voted “to allow Daniel Davis Esq.
.£44.5 for attending the Provincial Congress 1774 and
1775.” The town being indicted for neglect of the
highways, Sturgis Gorham Esq. was appointed to an-
swer at the next Superior Court. Hon. Nymphas Mars-
ton d. Feb. II.2 Rev. Enoch Eldridge was this year,
Dec. 4, ordained over a Society of Baptists at the
South side of the town.
In 1789, a bounty of $50 was voted “to be paid to any one
1	See Yol. I. 554, and 609-10. As we intimated, p. 233, we abandon the
idea of attempting a distinct view of either of the two professions, Law or
Medicine, in the several towns. Doct. Matthew Fuller was the first
regular practitioner here, succeeded by his son, Dr. John Fuller. They
were both eminent. Dr. Russell was noted, as, in later times, were Doc-
tors Samuel Savage, Jonas Whitman, John Davis, Henry Tuck,
and others in the recollection of many living. The former came over with
his distinguished uncle Dr. Samuel Fuller, in 1660, and from this stock
have been numerous descendants here, and scattered elsewhere. Dr. John
Fuller d. 1691. Dr. Jonas Whitman, b. 1749, grad. Yale 1772, s.
of Zach., s. of Ebenezer of S. Bridg., s. of Thos., s. of Dea. Jno. of Wey-
mouth, had sons, John who grad. H. C. 1805, and was attorney, d. y.;
Josiah, M. D. at H. C. 1816, set. in Cin., O.; and Cyrus. Dr. W. died
July 30, 1824.
2	See Yol. I. 373. We there stated, as is the family tradition, that MrANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
325
who shall kill the wolf that infests the vicinity, if killed in this
town; if elsewhere, $25.”
In 1790, the amount raised for general expenses of the town,
was £340; for schools, £120 and for highways £120. Dea.
Gershom Davis d. May 6, ae. 88.2
In 1791, choice having been made of a representative to the
General Court, and the delegate elect having pronounced “ the
laws of the Commonwealth a villanous set of laws,” the vote by
which he was elected was reconsidered by a large majority, and
Ebenezer Crocker Esq. “ was chosen in his stead.” Mr.
Solomon Davis d. in Boston, June 6, ae. 75.
In 1792, a com. was app. “to examine the state of the herring-
fishery at Marston’s Mills, and report what privileges or interest
the town has therein.”
In 1794, July 2, Mr. Timothy Phinney was chosen deacon of
the East Church.
In 1796, Belknap’s Coll, of Ps. and Hymns took the
place of Tate & Brady’s in the worship of the East
Church. The first Congregational meeting-house on
the south side of the town was built this year, the
minister of the East Parish officiating there a part
of the time. Mr. Jonathan Crocker d. Dec. 4, ae.
Benjamin Mars ton, who m. Lydia Goodspeed, not Elizabeth, and whose
son John was b. 1738, not 1730, was the first of the name in this town;
but according to Mr. Savage, there was a John Marston in town early,
who m. Martha Lombard, dr. of Bernard, July 1, 1657, and had John June
15, 1658, and George Oct. 4, 1660; after which the father removed to
Swansey, and had there by w. Joan, Melatiah Aug. 31, 1673. Hon.
Nymphas Marston, mentioned above, was grad. Yale College 1749;
was magistrate 1760; and much in public life. He d. ae. 60. His tomb-
stone represents him as “ a serious, but not a bigoted, Christian, affable,
generous, and just.”
1	Notwithstanding the privations and expenses incident to the protracted
revolutionary struggle, there is no evidence that either the schools or min-
istry were neglected. Recovering from the pressure of the burdens of the
war, the town began at once to increase its appropriations for schools, dis-
tricts were multiplied and school-houses provided. At the beginning of
the present half-century, there were twenty-one school-districts. The
money expended from the town treasury for public free schools has aver-
aged from $3000 to $4000 per annum for many years; whilst at the same
time academies and private schools are maintained.
2	Dea. Davis, b. 1702, s. of Joseph, m. Elisa. Sturgis 1726, 2d, Mary
Hinckley 1731, and 3d, Thankful Skiff, of S. 1757. He had James 1727;
Robt. 1732; Sam’l 1734, who m. Mary Gorham 1759, and removed to
Gorham, Me.; Elisa. 1736, ^hom. Joseph Crocker Jr. 1758; Mary 1740;
Abigail 1744. d. inf.; Abigai 1746 ; and Mercy 1748.326
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
65.1 Hon. Daniel Davis d. Ap. 22, 1799, se. 85 yrs.
and 6 mos.2
In 1800, Nov. 3, Rev. John Mellen requested and
received a dismission from the pastorate of the East
Church.3 He was succeeded, Sept 30,1801, by Rev.
Jotham Waterman.4 Mr. Sylvanus Bodfish died this
year, aged 70; and Mr. Richard Child died, 1805,
aged 61.
In 1807, Feb. 11, the Rev. Oakes Shaw, the pastor
of the ancient church at West Barnstable, died, aged
71, in the 47th year of his ministry. The pastorates
of his predecessor and himself had covered the space
*Mr. C., b. 1731, s. of Dea. John, m. Sarah Childs, May 2, 1754. His
death was by small pox; his w. d by the same, Dec. 16.
aHon. Daniel Davis, b. 1713, s. of Joseph, (see Yol. I. 578-80,) m.
Mehit. Lothrop dr. Thos. Aug. 2, 1739, and 2d, Mehit. Sturgis, wid. of Jno.
July 7, 1761. Issue: Mary Ap. 29, 1740; Daniel Oct. 10, 1741; Robert
Mar. 27, 1743; John Oct. 7, 1744; Deborah Aug. 13, 1746, who
m. Josiah Crocker Oct. 6, 1765, and 2d, Benj. Gorham Jr.; Thomas
Aug. 24, 1748; Desire Mar. 27, 1700, who m. Freeman Parker;
Ansel Mar. 13, 1752; Experience July 11, 1754, who m. Joseph Annable
July 11, 1771; Mehit. July 11, 1756; Lothrop lost at sea; and Daniel
Maj&8, 1762. See Vol. I. 468. Judge D. was an uncompromising whig,
and the warm personal friend and coadjutor of Col. Freeman, through the
whole period of the revolutionary struggle. Hon. Daniel Jr., b. 1762,
son of the preceding by his 2d m., m. Lois Freeman, dr. of Constant and
sister of Rev. James D. D., of Boston, and was father of Louisa, who m.
Wm. Minot Esq., and of Chas. H., now Rear Admiral U. S. N. His law
studies were prosecuted in the office of Hon. Shearj. Bourne, and he rose
to distinction early. Removing to Maine, he was rep. 6. yrs., and 6 yrs. in
the Senate from Cumberland Co.; was app. U. S. Attorney for Me., 1796,
and when removed by Mr. Jefferson, the office of Solicitor General was
provided especially for him, under Gov. Strong’s administration, — an office
which he held until 1832, discharging its duties with signal ability. On p.
808, we have referred to the promptness with which the people here turned
out to rush to the defence of their country at the news of the battle of
Lexington, and have quoted from Tudor’s life of Otis an incident illustra-
tive of the patriotic feeling. A gentleman has recently said, “ I remember
hearing, when a boy, an old gent., then in high legal position, read the pas-
sage, and when he closed the volume, he remarked in a subdued and feeling,
yet somewhat triumphant, tone, as he recalled the scene and its occasion,
‘ I was the drummer-boy to that company! ’ This was the Solicitor.”
See also p. 230 of the present volume.
8 Rev. Mr. Mellen, at his decease, left to the East Church two silver
flagons for communion service; a pleasing token of regard for his early
charge.
4 Rev. Ml Waterman b. 1774, was from Seit., and grad. H. C. 1799.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
327
of an entire century, within five years.1 Mr. Shaw8
was succeeded by Rev. Enoch Pratt, who was ordained
Oct. 28.
In 1809, Dea. Joseph Hallet died, March 29, aged
73; and, May 3, Mr. Silvs. Hinckley was chosen
deacon. Holmes Allen Esq., a lawyer of some distinc-
tion, died this year.3 In 1810, Gen. Joseph Otis died,
Sept. 23, aged 82.4
In 1811, April 22, Mr. Daniel Crocker died, aged
49;5 and, Nov. 28, Hon. Ebenezer Bacon, aged 55.°
The part which this town bore in the war of 1812 was
1	Down to this time one meeting-house sufficed for the wants of the peo-
ple in the entire bounds of the West Parish
2	See Vol. I. 587, where, in stating the lineal descent, we inadvertently
omitted one generation. It should be, Rev. Oakes Shaw was s. of Rev.
John, who was s. of Joseph, who was s. of John, who was s. of Abraham.
Rev. John, the immediate parent of the Barnstable minister, m. Sarah An-
gier, dr. of Rev. Sam’l, and had Oakes 1736 ; Bezaliel 1738, who grad. H.
C. 1762, and set. in the ministry at Nantucket; William 1741, who grad.
H. C. 1762, and set. at Marshfield, and whose sons were Rev. Jos. and Rev.
Philander; Eunice 1743, who d. 1791; Ruth 1744, who m. Gen. Nathaniel
Goodwin of Plym., who was father of Rev. Ezra S. Goodwin of Sandwich;
Ezra 1746, who d. 1764; John 1748, who grad. H. C. 1772, and set. in the
ministry at Haverhill; and Samuel, a physician. The Barnstable pastor,
Rev. Oakes, m. Elizabeth Weld, dr. Rev. Habijah of Attleboro, and 2d,
Susanna Hayward, dr. of John of Braintree, and had Elisa., who d. Sept.
3, 1798, aged 33 ; Tempe., who m. Maj. Jos. Blish ; Sarah, who d. July 17,
1792, aged 23 ; John H.; and Lemuel. The first w. of Mr. S. d. 1772, ae.
40; the wid. d. in Boston, 1839, aged 94, in the family of her son, the
Chief Justice. The ministry of Mr. S. was happy and prosperous, and his
memory is still cherished with respect and affection by the aged.
3	Mr. Allen m. Lucy Lawrence, and had Hy. Holmes Aug. 14, 1801,
who m. Abigail T. Gorham, and “ died in foreign lands.” No issue.
4	See Vol. I. 592. In former vol., p. 272, we intimated that the origin
of the family here, and those early at Dover, and later at Lyme, was the
same. Our notes strongly tempt us to trace the lineage in exlenso ; but we
must, in this case as in others, abridge our genealogical data, and can only
remark that Richard of Glastenbury, near Barnstaple, Eng., was doubt-
less the common progenitor. His will, 1611, mentions three sons,—Stephen,
John, and Thomas. Stephen in his will, 1637, mentions an only s. Rich-
ard; and this s. came over and set. at Dover, N. H. John, brother of
Stephen, and unc. of Richard, had, as we have already seen, set. in Scitu-
ate. Thomas went to Ireland, and his descendants came over about 1720,
from whom the family in Lyme, Ct., descended.
5	Mr. Crocker m. Sally, only dr. of Capt. Sam’l Sturgis Jr., who m. Lydia
Crocker, whose name was long known as the tavern designation, — “ Aunt
Lvdia’s.” This somewhat remarkable woman d. Oct. 3, 1837, aged 77.
*• See Vol. I. 355.328
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
not unlike that of other Cape towns: its most effi-
cient service was upon the seas.1
In 1815, July 13, Rev. Jotham Waterman was dis-
missed, by a council convened for the purpose, from
his charge of the East Church and precinct;2 and the
same year, a call being accepted by Rev. Oliver Hay-
ward, he was ordained Oct. 8.3
In 1816, a new meeting-house having been erected
on the South side, the previous year, and Messrs. Eb-
enezer Coleman, James Hathaway, Ebenezer Case,
Levi Kelley, Solomon Phinney, Benj. Hathaway, Job
Childs, James Crosby, Lewis Crosby, Paul Phinney, and
Eleazer Bearse being dismissed from the East Church,
and recommended to a council of ministers for organ-
1	It will be remembered that in this war, although we had almost no navy,
the brave seamen of these States proved an overmatch for the “ mistress of
the seas,” by means particularly of privateers. This significant fact is
probably that alone that prevents the British ministry from carrying out
more openly that vindictive feeling so manifest at this time of our domes-
tic trouble. The wailings of the London Times, March, 1813, are an ex-
hibit that it is well to preserve, viz.: —
“ The public learn, with sentiments which we shall not presume to antic-
ipate, that a third British frigate has struck to an American. This is an
occurrence which calls for serious reflection, — this and the fact stated in
our paper of yesterday, that Lloyd’s list contains notices of upward of five
hundred British vessels captured in seven months by the Americans, — five
hundred merchantmen and three frigates, — ay, and three sloops-of-war.
Can these statements be true, and can the English people hear them un-
moved ? One who had predicted such a result of an American war this
time last year would have been treated as a madman or traitor. He would
have been told, if his opponents had condescended to argue with him, that
long ere seven months had elapsed the American flag would have been
swept from the seas, the contemptible navy of the United States annihila-
ted, and their maritime arsenal rendered a heap of ruins. Yet down to
this moment not a single American frigate has struck her flag. They in-
sult us, — laugh at our want of enterprise and vigor. They leave their
ports whenever they please, and return when it suits their convenience.
They travel the Atlantic, they beset the West India Islands, they advance
to the very chops of the channel, they parade along the coasts of South
America. Nothing chases, nothing intercepts, nothing engages them but
to yield them triumph.”
2	Rev. Mr. Waterman was a man of talents and learning. The unfortu-
nate necessity of his being deposed from the minstry was deeply regretted
by many friends. It is said that he found employment as a school teacher,
and died at Nantucket Sept. 4, 1830, aged 62.
*Rev. Mr. Hayward was from Bridgewater, and grad. Brown Un. 1812.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
329
ization as a distinct church, they were so constituted,
Aug. 16, and Rev. Josiah Sturtevant became the first
pastor.1 Mr. William Blachford died August 30, aged
66.
In 1817, Feb. 17, Mr. Ebenezer Crocker, of Cotuit,
died, aged 64;2 and Jan. 1818, Mr. Jonathan Bod-
fish died, aged 91.3 Nov. 29,1818, Rev. Oliver Hay-
ward was dismissed, at his own request, from charge
of the East Cong. Church;4 and, the following year,
Dec. 22, Rev. Edmond Q. Sewal was ordained as his
successor.® Mr. Ebenezer Scudder died June 8,1818,
aged 85. Mr. Wm. Crocker died May, 1819, aged 89;6
and Mr. Isaac Bacon died June 26, aged 87. Mr. Ja-
1	Rev. Mr. Sturtevant was from Plymouth. He was both minister and
physician.
2	Mr. Ebenezer Crocker, b. 1753, s. of Ebenezer Jr. of Cotuit, m.
Mary Bourne, dr. of Thos. of Sandwich, and had Nathan B. 1783, who
grad. H. C. 1802 ; and Braddock, who m. Tempe. Hallet, dr. of Benj. The
former, Rev. Nathan Bourne Crocker, D. D., is now the senior pres-
byter of the Episcopal Church in the United States, having succeeded Rev.
Mr. Bowen, afterwards Bishop of S. C., at St. John's Church, Providence,
in 1802, and continued rector to the present time, with assistance only in
later years. Yery few have sustained so long a period of ministry in one
place with such eminent satisfaction, and discharged the duties of office
wit^i such signal ability and fidelity. A beautiful portrait of him was
placed by admiring friends, some years since, in the hall of Brown Univer-
sity, of the corporation of which he was Fellow.
8 See pp. 142-3. Mr. Bodfish, b. 1727, s. of Benj., was a noted farmer,
having some 600 acres of tillage, meadow, and woodland; raising large
crops, — that alone of Indian corn averaging 400 bu.; annually wintering
about 50 neat cattle, and large flocks of sheep. He m. Desire Howland
May 3, 1753, who d. 1813, aged 81, and had Silvs. Nov. 15, 1754, who d.
1801, aged 47 ; Benj. Ap. 14, 1756, who d. Jan. 14, 1827, aged 70; John
Mar. 16, 1761, who m. Mary Smith, and d. 1847, aged 86, having been se-
lectman of the town many years; Isaac July 22, 1763, who m. Elisa. Bod-
fish, and died August 30, 1837, aged 74; Josiah November 8, 1765, who
d. Oct. 8, 1845, aged 80; Deborah June 11, 1768, who m. Benj. Good-
speed; Simeon Feb. 10, 1771, d. early; and Alice 1773, who d. Ap. 21,
1854, aged 81.
4 Rev. Mr. Hayward was a fine writer, and his life remarkably ex-
emplary,— his meekness allied to extreme diffidence. He returned to
Bridgewater and died.
6 Rev. Mr. Sewal was from Marblehead, and s. of the late Chief Just.
Sewal. He grad. H. C. 1815.
6 Mr. Crocker, b. 1730, s. of David Esq., m. Lydia Knowles of E. 1753,
and 2d, Mary Cobb 1764. Issue: Abigail 1754; David 1755; Tempe.
1763 ; Sarah 1765; Mary 1766; Wm. 1768; Matthias 1770, hatter in Bos-
to.; Eben. 1772, deacon, went West; and Loring 1774.
VOL. II.	42330
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
bez Claghorn died June 10,1821, aged 85. The town
was, about this time, perhaps the year previous, pro-
vided with a new poor-house, located upon the farm
which Mr. Parker Lombard had many years since be-
queathed “ for the support of the poor forever.”1
In 1822, May 1, Mr. Joseph Chipman became a
deacon of the East Church; and its pastor, Rev. Mr.
Sewal, took his dismission, July 31.2 Mr. Asa Crocker
d. Ap. 17, aged 46.
In 1824, Oct. 6, Rev. Henry Hersey became pastor
of the East Church.3
In 1825, the ancient Baptist meeting-house in Hy-
annis was demolished, and a more commodious edifice
rose on its site. A printing-press was set up in town
this year, and a newspaper commenced by Mr. Wm.
1The donor was s. of Mr. Joshua Lombard, who m. Sarah Parker
Dec. 14, 1715, and had Sarah Sept. 28, 1716; and Parker Dec. 24, 1718,
who d. without issue, and made the bequest above mentioned. The Lom-
bard family have, in their generations, been highly respectable, influential,
and numerous, — the descendants being widely scattered. The name has
been variously written, and families of the same lineage now severally call
themselves Lombard, Lumbard, Lambard, Lumbert, Lambert, and Lumber.
The will of Thomas, 1663, mentions “wife Joyce, and sons Bernard, Ca-
leb, Jedediah,. Benj., Joshua, Joseph, and son-in-law Edward Coleman,”
who m. Margaret Oct. 27, 1648. Bernard, prominent in public affairs,
b. 1607, some suppose to have been bro. of the preceding Thomas, others
represent him as the son. They came here at the same time, 1640, and
some children of both were contemporary. The children of Bernard were
Mary, who m. Geo. Lewis Jr. 1654; Joshua; Thomas; Martha, who m.
John Martin 1659; and Jabez 1641. Jedediah m. Hannah Wing May
20, 1668, and had Jedediah, Thomas, and drs. Benjamin m. three times,
and had Benj. Sept. 27, 1675 ; Sam’l Sept. 15,1691; and seven daughters.
Joshua, whether s. of Thos. or Bernard cannot say, m. Abigail Linnel
May 27, 1651, and had Jona. Ap. 28, 1657; Joshua Jan. 16, 1660; and
drs. Abigail and Mercy. Joshua, who d. 1724, m. Hopestili Bullock Nov.
6, 1682, and had Joshua Aug. 5, 1686, who m. Sarah Parker; Sara’l June
1, 1690; Jona. Ap. 16, 1703; and 5 drs. Thomas m. Elisa. Derby Dec.
23, 1665, and had Thos., Jabez, and 8 drs. Jabez, s. of Bernard, m. Sa-
rah Derby Dec. 1, 16G0, and had Bernard 1668; John 1670; Matthew
1672; Natli’l 1679; and 5 drs. Jonathan, s. of Joshua, m. Elisa. Eddy
Dec. 11, 1683, and had Jona. 1684; Alice 1686; Eben. 1688, all in Be.;
and Abigail 1691 at the Vineyard.
*	Rev. Mr. Sewal became minister of the Unitarian church at Scituate
Harbor.
*	Rev. Mr. Hersey was from Hingham, and grad. Brown Univ. 1820.ANNALS OP BARNSTABLE.
331
E. P. Rogers, called the Barnstable County Gazette.
The U. S. Gov. erected a lighthouse on Sandy Neck
Point, at the entrance of the harbor. Hon. Jno. Davis
d. this year, May 27, aged 81.1
In 1826, a new meeting-house was built on the S.
side, about one mile distant from the site of that erect-
ed in 1796. An appropriation of $10,600 was made
by Congress for the construction of a break-water at
Hyannis for the protection and improvement of the
harbor. Dr. Richard Bourne died this year, April 25,
aged 86.2
In 1827, Rev. Wm. Harlow became the successor of
1	Hon. John Davis, a skilful physician, an upright judge, and a con-
sistent Christian, — of whose excellence we cannot speak in terms of too
high eulogy (long we knew him and much time had we spent, in our boy-
hood, under his hospitable roof),— m. Mercy Crocker, dr. of Job, and had
Ruth C., who m. Elisha T. Davis; Job C.; Mercy, who m. Joseph Easta-
brooks and, 2d, Edw. D. Blossom; John, who d. at sea; Robert, who m.
Catharine Trenton of Baltimore, and removed to N. Orleans; Hetty, an
estimable lady, the commendation of whom all who were acquainted with
her will approve, who d. single in 1861; Nathaniel; Lothrop, whod. at sea;
Mary, who m. Matthew Cobb Esq.; Ansel; Apphia, who m. Capt. Henry
Baxter; Thomas and Daniel, gemini, who d. inf.; and Sarah, who d. y.
Capt. Nathaniel m. Hannah King, dr. of John of Raynham, and had
Sarah, who m. John Davenport, merch’t of New York ; Camilla, who m.
Wm. H. Leonard, merch’t of N. Y; Harriet, who m. J. White, merch’t of
N. Y.; Hannah; and Hetty, who m. R. T. Woodward, merch’t of N.Y. Doct.
Ansel m. Hetty Gorham, dr. of Edward, and had Helen, John T., Lucy,
Wm., Rob’t, Abigail, Amanda, Ansel, and Edward G.
2	Dr. Bourne b. 1739, was s. of Hon. Sylvanus. By his m. with Miss
Sturgis he had an only child, Abigail, who m. Nathan Stone Esq. of Den-
nis. Dr. B. was many years postmaster in this town, the first appointed,
an office which he held till near the close of life, — always courteous and
obliging. His wife d. 10 days before him, aged 85. Unfortunately for the
honor of the age, the ferocity which, hyena-like, invades the sepulchre, has
made it obligatory on us to allude, contrary to our general rule, to a private
matter that, with mistaken views of the moral sentiment of the community,
has recently been foisted before the public. We do it simply as an act of
justice. Dr. B., when superseded as P. M., was thought to be a defaulter.
His own account showed only the insignificant amount of $30 due the
government, and this he proffered. Government levied on his estate, his
property was sacrificed, and the last days of an aged couple were imbittered,
perhaps shortened, by poverty. It was then found by gov’t that the error
had been in the P. O. department; the accounts of Dr. B. were punctiliously
correct. As this discovery was unfortunately not made until the injured man
and his companion had gone down to the grave, a draft was forwarded by
gov’t to his only heir for the entire amount that had been realized from the
execution, coming in due course of mail on the very day she was to be mar-332
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Rev. Mr. Sturtevant, deceased, in the South Church.1
Mr. John Munroe was chosen deacon of the East
Church, June 27, Dea. Joseph Chipman having d. Feb.
17, aged 68. A Peace Society was organized, consist-
ing of 60 members, Dec. 25. Hon. Job C. Davis,
Judge of Probate, d. this year.2
In 1828, the first Society here for the suppression of
intemperance was formed. Naler Crocker Esq. died
March 28, 1829;3 and Mr. Isaiah L. Green Jr., Sep-
tember 29 4
In 1831, Rev. IIazael Lucas was settled as successor
of Rev. Mr. Harlow.5 Mr. Andrew Lovell d. this year;
also, Doct. Samuel Savage.6
In 1832, Mr. Daniel Lovell died, and Mr. Joseph
Bassett d. Sept. 5, 1833, aged 947
ried. Thus, but too late, was a long course of public service vindicated.
How often, as in the present instance, has the accusation been remembered,
but the disproval forgotten, to the injury of a life of probity l *Tis oft
“ the rough brake
That virtue must go through.”
1	Rev. Mr. Harlow was from Plymouth, and continued three years.
2	Hon. Job C. Davis m. Desire Loring, dr. of Otis, and had Lothrop,
who d. June 18, 1861, having been many years register of deeds; and 12
other children.
3	Naler Crocker Esq., b. 1773, s. of Cornelius Jr., was a gentleman of
much prominence, and many years selectman and town clerk, besides holding
other important offices. He was father of Hon. Henry Crocker now of
Boston.
4	Mr. Green was s. of Hon. Isaiah L. Green, and grad. Brown Univer.
1 S25 ; a student at law and a young man of much promise. His bro. Jo-
seph grad, at the same, 1824.
6	Rev. Mr. Lucas was from Carver^ He continued about 3 years.
e Dr. Sam’l Savage, grad. H. C. 1766, was a distinguished citizen. By
his wife Hope he had John, who d. Oct. 5, 1811, aged 22, a student at law,
who grad. H. C. 1810 ; Samuel; Elisha D.; and Hope. Both the younger
sons d. previously, when approaching their majority, at Kingston, Jamaica,
W. I., whither they had repaired for health. The inscription upon the
tombstone of Samuel, who was a young man of much promise, closes with
the apposite quotation from Young: —
“ Insatiate archer! could not one suffice ?
Thy shaft flew thrice, and thrice my peace was slain! ”
Hope m. Hon. Lemuel Shaw, and survives.
7	See Yol. I. 333. The Bassetts early in Sandwich. A branch of the
family set. in Yarmouth, from whom are chiefly those of the name in this
town. Nathaniel, s. of Wm. 1st of S., was early ir Y,, and his s. Wm.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
333
In 1835, April 1, Rev. Mr. Hersey, at his request, re-
ceived a dismission from his pastorate of the East
Cong. Church ;1 and Rev. Enoch Pratt, after a minis-
try of 28 years, asked and was granted a discharge
from his pastorate of the West Church.2 The Rev.
Alfred Greenwood succeeded Mr. Pratt the following
year.
In 1837, Sept. 27, Rev. George W. Woodward was
ordained over the East Church.3 Mr. Isaac Bodfish
died Aug. 30, aged 74. Dea. Timothy Phinney died
July 2, 1838, aged 93.4
who with his w. were dis. from the Y. church to Be. 1727, was prob. the an-
cestor of those of the name in W. Be. From Joseph of Y., s. of Nath’l,
are prob. the Hyannis families, through Daniel, b. Nov. 7, 1710, whom.
Elisa. Crowell, and Daniel Aug. 7, 1736, whose s. Daniel, a lieut. in the
Continental Army, m. Bearse and resided in Hyannis, whose s. Joseph d.
July 7,1855, aged 93, the father of 24 children, of whom the present Hon.
Zenas D. Bassett is the eldest. The Joseph, who is the subject of this
note, was s. of Joseph and g. s of Nath’l 1st. He m. Mary Whelden Feb.
25, 1737, and had Joseph Dec. 23, 1738, who m. 3 times, and had Joseph
and also Susanna, who m. Elisha Doane, Esq.; Mary Oct. 20, 1744, who
m. Edward Sturgis Jr. Jan. 28, 17G7 ; Jonathan Nov. 10, 1746 ; and Sami
Dec. 4, 1748. The last two removed to Hallowell, Me. From Nathan,
s. of Nathaniel 1st, are chiefly those of the name in Chatham and Harwich.
1	Rev. Mr. IIersey’s ministry was highly honorable; yet, returning to
his native town, he retired from the profession and became a merchant.
We are under obligations to this gentleman for the courtesy extended by
the loan of his notes taken from church records.
2	Until 1820, Rev. Mr. Pratt, who was from Middleboro’, and grad, at
Brown Univ. 1803, was the only minister set. within the West Precinct
bounds. Since that date denominations and churches have multiplied. Mr.
P. continued to officiate for destitute churches until near the time of his
decease. See Annals of Brewster.
3	Rev. Mr. Woodward was from Hanover, N. H.; and grad. Dart. Col.
1831.
4	The first of the name here was John, eldest son of John of Scituate.
His 1st w. Christian, d. Sept. 9, 1649, at Ply; his 2d w. Abigail (Bishop)
Coggins, wid. of Henry, m. June 10,1650, d. May 6,1653 ; and he m. his 3d
w. Elisa. Bayley June 26, 1654. Issue: John Dec. 24, 1638, at Plymouth,
and was bap. at Be. whither he had removed, July 31, 1653; Jona. Aug.
14, 1655, who d. 1690 in Phipp’s expedition; Robt. Aug. 13, 1656; Han-
/ nah 1657, m. Eph. Morton; Elizabeth Mar. 15, 1659; Josiah Jan. 11,
1660-1; Jeremiah Aug. 15, 1662; and Joshua 1665. Mr. P. is said to
have become, with Maj. Walley and others, interested in Mt. Hope, and
removed to Bristol with all his family except John, after holding offices in
both Plymo. and Be. John, b. 1638, m. Mary Rogers Aug. 10, 1664, and
had John May 5, 1665 ; Melatiah 1666, d. y.; Joseph Jan. 28, 1667; Thos.
Jan. 1671; Eben. Feb. 18, 1673; Samuel, Nov. 4, 1676, who m. Bethia
Finney; Mary 1678; Mercy 1679; Reliance 1681; Benj. June 18, 1682;334
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1839, Rev. Mr. Woodward retired from the pas-
torate of the East Church, after a ministry of only two
years. No successor was provided for many years,
the pulpit being supplied by clergymen temporarily
employed. This year, Sept. 3, was • celebrated in an
effective and becoming manner, the 200th anniversary
of the settlement of the town.1 It was a day of
unmingled pleasure to the inhabitants, as also of high
gratification to the numerous assemblage present both
from the vicinity and even from distant towns and
cities. The oration delivered by Mr. Palfrey was an
able production, worthy of the high reputation of its
author. Abner Davis Esq. died this year, Sept 4.2
Jona. July 30, 1684; Hannah 1687, d. y.; and Elisa. 1691. Dea. John,
b. 1665, and d. Nov. 27, 1746, aged about 80, m. Sarah Lumbard May 30,
1689, and had Elisa. 1690; Mary 1692, d. inf.; John April 5, 1696; Thos.
May 25, 1697; Hannah 1700; Sarah 1702; Patience 1704; Martha 1706;
and Jabez July 16, 1708. Thomas, b. 1671, m. Sarah Butler (a wid.)
Aug. 25, 1698; and had Gershom March 25, 1699-1700; Abigail 1704;
Thos. Feb. 17, 1702-3 ; James April 15, 1706; and Mercy 1708. Eben’r,
b. 1673, m. Susanna Linnel Nov. 14,1695, and had Mehit.; Mercy; Martha;
Samuel; Eben’r; and David June 10, 1710, who m. Mary Pope of S.
Sept. 27, 1733. Benjamin, b. 1682, m. Martha Crocker 1709, and had
Tempe. 1710; Melatiah 1712; Barna. 1715; Silas 1718 ; Zaccheus Aug. 4,
1720; and Seth June 27, 1723. Jonathan, b. 1684, had by w. Elizabeth,
Thankful 1713; Joseph 1716; and Jona. 1718. Zaccheus, b. 1720, m.
Susanna Davis, and had Benj. June 10, 1744; Timo. April 5, 1746, and
Barna. March 31, 1748. Dea. Timothy, b. 1745, was the senator, and had
Timo. and others.
1	See Vol. I. 640 and 778. Mr. Palfrey, of Barnstable descent, speaks of
the town on this wise: “ It has become what to-day we see it ... It
meets our view with all the tokens of being the seat of an intelligent, vir-
tuous, efficient population. We see its harbor a scene of cheerful activity.
In its fields, we look at substantial harvests, — thanks to the skill that
rears them, — growing out of what looks to us like a very scanty soil. Its
churches and schoolhouses catch our eye as we pass, proclaiming how God
is reverenced, and how knowledge is prized. The ornaments of its dwell-
ings— tributes from every foreign clime — tell us how few households
have reared those ‘ home-keeping youth who/ if the old bard may be
trusted, * have ever homely wits/ There are other things which we do not
see. We see no beggars, no idlers, no sots. The population of the town
is over four thousand; its poor-house has eighteen tenants. The popula-
tion of the county is thirty-two thousand; in its jail there are three pris-
oners, and those three are foreigners. If I am rightly informed, there is
not a licensed public-house in the county, nor has been these three years.
Its whole aspect is, to the agricultural school of economists, one perplexity
and marvel”
2	Sse Vol. I $41.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
335
In 1840, Rev. Mr. Greenwood took his dismission from
the church at West Barnstable,1 and the same year
Rev. Thomas Riggs was installed his successor.2 Rev.
Elisha Bacon succeeded to the charge of the South
Church, at the Indian Chequaket, and the church
reorganized with new articles of faith and covenant,
assuming the name of “ The Congregational Church in
Centreville.” Rev. Phineas Fish became pastor of a
church organized at Cotuit. Mr. Jonathan Davis died
Sept. 22, aged 91.3 Mr. Loring Crocker died March
21, 1841*
In 1843, Rev. Alonzo Hayes was ordained over the
West Cong. Church, Mr. Riggs having retired.5 David
Crocker Esq. died Sept. 4. Mr. William Crocker died
June 24, 1844; and Dock James Thacher, a native of
the town, died at Plymouth, this year, aged 90 ;6 Mr.
1	Rev. Mr. Greenwood, b. 1801, grad. II. C. 1824, had, before coming to
Be., been a missionary in the Western States.
2	Rev. Mr. Riggs was from Oxford, Ct., and had been settled in Me.
and also in N. H.
3	Mr. Davis, b. 1749, s. of Stephen, m. Susanna Lewis, who d. Sept.
26, 1841, aged 92. They had Stephen, who settled in Falm.; Solomon;
George; and Susan.
4	Mr. Crocker was a salt manufacturer, extensively engaged in the
business.
6 Rev. Mr. Hayes continued about 5 years.
6 We here mention Dr. Thacher because of the part he took in the
revolutionary contest. When a young man, a pupil of Dr. Ilersey, fiis
majority just attained, influenced by a strong desire to serve his country, he
determined to seek the opportunity; and, to use his own words communi-
cated to us by himself almost 40 years ago, started on horseback to Sand-
wich to take the advice of Col. Freeman. He had not gone beyond the
bounds of his native town ere he met Col. F., also on horseback,—it was
the common mode of travelling in those days,—going in haste in the oppo-
site direction. Introducing himself and his business, during which time he
was eyed attentively, he underwent a short but searching examination
touching his qualifications for medicine and surgery,—the Col. himself
being a distinguished practitioner, — and, with a few commendatory words
and some good counsel, receiving also a certificate and recommendation
which his examiner had written on the blank leaf of a memorandum-book,
was directed to hasten on to Cambridge and deliver the paper, assured that
he would find all things to his mind. The interview was necessarily brief,
for each was sitting in the saddle; but the Col., who knew the young man’s
family, felt that his patriotic aspirations should be encouraged, and the
applicant was made happy by the certain prospect of success. On reach-
ing headquarters at Cambridge, Dr. T. was at once put in commission; and
the sequel is known.336
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Josiah Bodfish died October 8, 1834, aged 80,—also
Doctor Henry Tuck; Mr. John Bodfish died August,
1847, aged 86, and Captain Benjamin Hallett died
December 31,1849, aged 90.1
In 1851, the celebration, Nov. 11, of the first anni-
versary of the Cape Cod Association, in Boston, was
an occasion of much enjoyment. The oration, by
Henry A. Scudder Esq., a native of this town, was
of marked ability and felicitously appropriate.2 Mr.
Josiah Scudder died this year, March 26, aged 76.3
In 1853, Rev. Hiram Carlton was settled as pastor
of the West Parish. The ancient meeting-house had
become dilapidated and unsuited to the times; but
the frame being sound, a desire was felt to retain
the identity of this venerable structure. It received,
therefore, a new covering, windows of modem style,
a new steeple, &c., — soon standing forth rejuvenated,
convenient in its arrangements, of comely proportions,
and generally pleasing to the eye.4
1 See Vol. I. 657.
* See Vol. I. 660 and 780.
8 Mr. John Scudder, here in 1640, was doubtless the common ancestor
of the families of the name on the Cape. John, who m. Elizabeth Ham-
blin July 31, 1689, and d. at C. 1742, “ very aged,” had John May 23,
1690, who m. Ruth Davis 1715; Expere. April 28, 1692; James Jan. 13,
1694-5; Eben’r April 23,1696 ; Reliance 1700; and Hannah 1706. Eben’r,
b. 1696, m. Lydia Cobb 1725, and had Daniel July 23, 1726; Elisa. 1728;
Sam’l June 19,1729 ; Rebecca 1731; Ebenezer May 25, 1733; Lydia 1735;
and Eleazer Feb. 12, 1737. Eben’r, b. 1733, m. Rose Delap Jan. 11,
1759, and had Ebenezer Aug. 3, 1761; Isaiah June 8, 1768; Asa July 25,
1771; Elizabeth Oct. 12, 1773, who m. Morton Crocker; Josiah Nov. 3,
1775; James; Thomas. Josiah, b. 1775, m. Hannah Lovell Dec. 26,
1799, and had Puella L., Josiah, Freeman L., Zeno, Persis, Edwin, and
Henry A.
4 About 20 ft. of the east end was partitioned from the main body, form-
ing a vestibule underneath and a conference-room above. The assembly-
room was fresco-painted and furnished with a chandelier. This edifice had
in former days been enlarged at different periods, and a bell had been fur-
nished it by the munificence of Col. James Otis — the first bell, it is said,
used in the county. Col. O. was a liberal contributor to this church;
among his benefactions was “ £80 lawful money, the interest to be distrib-
uted annually by the deacons holding it in trust, for the benefit of the poor
of the church.”ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
337
In 1854, Jan 3, a Cong. Church at Hjannis was
organized. Re-* Phineas Fish, pastor of the Cong.
Church at Cotuit, died this year, June 16, ae. 69.1
In 1857, a large and commodious hall was erected
in town, for the use of the Barnstable County Agri-
cultural Society.2 Hon. Zeno Scudder, member elect
from this district to the 33d Congress, died June 26,
ae. 50.3
1	See Vol. I. 696 and 711. Rev. Mr. Fish was an excellent man,—
pure, humble, and devout. He was also a good scholar. By m. with
Phebe Gardner of Nantucket, he had 2 s. and 1 dr.
2	This hall was nearly destroyed by a gale, and another erected in its
place, in 1862, largely by the munificence of Hon. William Sturgis, of
Boston, a native of this town, who had also contributed liberally to the
building of the first.
3Hon. Zeno Scudder, b. 1707, s. of Josiah, like most young men of
the Cape towns, inclined in his boyhood to the seas, but was early led to
mercantile pursuits. Before he had attained his majority, however, a
paralysis of the right limb induced lameness, which soon led to a further
change of plans. Under the direction of Dr. Nourse of Hallowell, and at
Bowdoin Col., he prosecuted the study of medicine. These studies com-
pleted, finding the physical infirmity an impediment to practice as a
physician, nothing discouraged he resolved to give his attention to the law.
His course preparatory, pursued partly at the Camb. Law School, being
ended, he was admitted to the bar in 1836, opening first an office in Fal-
mouth ; soon, however, settling in his native town not less from affection
than as a more central and commanding position. In his professional read-
ing a diligent student, he gained the merited reputation of an accurate and
learned lawyer and able counsellor. In 1846, he was elected to the Massa-
chusetts Senate, and, when returned a second term, became President of
that body. He was afterwards elected to the 3 2d Congress, also again to
the succeeding; but, before he could take his seat in the 33d, a casualty, to
the deep regret of numerous friends, prostrated him in lingering and ex-
treme bodily suffering which eventuated in his lamented decease. Nat-
urally of strong physical constitution, he was also of more than ordinaly
intellectual power. His speech in Congress, Aug. 12, 1852, on the impor-
tance of the American fisheries, and of encouragement to American seamen,
discovers great research, and stands a monument of his fidelity and ability.
The preferments of his constituency are honorable testimony of his public
and private virtues; and in the memories of more intimate friends, his
purity and excellence of character are fondly cherished. It is well known
to every intelligent observer, that the profession of the law is often, nay
too generally taken up simply under the impression that the bar is the nat-
ural and facile avenue to posts of emolument and power; too little effort
being put forth to master, not only in its technicalities but in its principles,
a noble science; too little care bestowed upon the cultivation of those
elevated moral sentiments which alone can assure the client that the con-
fidence he reposes in his counsellor is not misplaced. It is to the credit of
Mr. Scudder that he was, as we have said, a diligent student, and that, as
we have seen, civil distinction awaited him, simply as the award due to
merit. It has been well remarked by one- compete! t to- advis that “ m>
YOL. II.	43338
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1861, Lothrop Davis Esq., who had been more
than thirty years Register of Deeds for the County,
and an efficient and faithful officer, died, June 18, aged
68. Mr. Freeman Crosby died, Oct. 28, aged 66; Mr.
David Kelley, in Nov., aged 64; George Lovell Esq.,
Nov. 28, aged 74 j1 and Mr. Charles Jenkins, Dec. 27,
aged 66. We must also record here the decease of
a prominent and good man, Dea. Charles Scudder, Jan.
21, aged 73, who, though long known as an eminent
merchant in Boston, where he died, was a native of
this town, and sustained intimate relations with the
Cape.2 Nor can we be so derelict as to pass unnoticed
distinguished names of others born in Barnstable whose
lamented demise appears on the bills of mortality.
For, from remote times, even from the days of the
Princes, the Lothrops, the Walleys, the Thorntons, and
others early emigrating from the Cape, Boston, and
man can expect to become eminent as a lawyer, who does not, for at least a
score of years, or more, apply himself rigidly to his profession. The great
Mr. Burke has said, “ The science of jurisprudence, the pride of the human
intellect, with all its defects, redundancies and errors, is the collected reason
of ages, combining the principles of original justice with the infinite variety
of human concerns.” To this noble sentiment, reckless pettifoggers and
aspirants for place are blind. The idea that the law is not a science, but a
trade, has not only proved fatal to the hopes of many, but the temptation
tc embark in politics in the gristle of youth, and without mental culture,
Las already wellnigh proved the bane of the republic. To insure distinc-
tion of place, men aspire to be leaders in collisions of parties, chief speakers
in primary assemblies, and promoters of factions. Rash and hasty legisla-
tion is the result of their success, — never “ approaching the faults of the
State, as to the wounds of a father, with pious awe and trembling solici-
tude,” as a great statesman advised, but with supreme regard to self. Mr.
iScndderis example was the opposite of this. The engraving on the opposite
page, has, at our suggestion, been yielded through the munificence of his
brother, Henry A. Scudder, Esq.
rMr. Lovell, b. July 17, 1787, long and extensively engaged in active
enterprise, was a self-made man,— from cabin boy to master, merchant, and
large ship-owner.
2 Dea. Charles Scudder was grandson of Eleazer, b. 1737, s. of
Ebenezer, whom. Mary Lewis and had David Jan. 5, 1763; also Lydia,
Wm., Eleazer, Daniel, and Mary. David Esq., b. 1763, was an eminent
citizen, and .many years was Clerk of the Courts. He m. Desire Gage,
and had Charles June 5, 1789, who set. in Boston; Elisha Mar. 9, 1791;
Alexander Mar-12,1793, merchant in Boston; also Abigail, Lucinda, David,
Horace, Frederick ..the present Reg. of Deeds, and Julia.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
339
other places both within and without the State, have
not ceased to be largely indebted to this peninsula foi?
an influence that has tended largely to her progress
and prosperity,— an influence always unostentatiously
exerted, and generally acknowledged, though rarely
credited with any reference to the nativity of the
men, — whether in commercial enterprise, in the mili-
tary defences of the country, in the pulpit, the judi-
ciary, or elsewhere,—an influence that has, in fact, per-
vaded the land, extending abroad to the remotest
parts of the world, enlarging our national wealth and
increasing our national influence. The Hon. Lemuel
Shaw, for thirty years Chief Justice of the Supreme
Court of Mass., also died this year, Mar. 30, aged 80,1 2
In 1862, Mr. James Davis, also a native of this town
died at his residence, in Boston, April 25, aged 84,—
venerable and highly esteemed, a liberal, high-minded,
honorable merchant; Capt. John Percival, U. S. N.,
one of the oldest officers in the service, — brave, kind-
hearted, generous, patriotic, faithful, — died at his res-
idence in Dorchester, Sept. 17, aged 84 f and Hon.
Benjamin F. Hallett, long distinguished at the bar, and
1Hon. Lemuel Shaw, LL. D., b. Jan. 9, 1781, was s. of Rev. Oakes,
the pastor of the W. Precinct, and grad. H. C. 1800. He m. 1st, Elizabeth
Knapp, dr. of Josiah of Boston, and 2d, Hope Savage, dr. of Doct. Sam’l of
this town. Issue: Oakes; a dr. who m. Herman Melville; Lemuel Jr.; and
Samuel S. Having attained a high reputation at the bar, he was app.
Chief Justice of the Supreme Court in 1830, presiding with distinguished
reputation as a jurist, longer perhaps, if we except Chief Justice Marshall,
than any other man in the country. After a life of great purity, usefulness,
and integrity, he died serenely, widely honored, greatly esteemed, deeply
lamented. Through life he cherished a warm affection for his native town
and county. Judge S. received the honorary degree of LL. D. at H. C.
1831, and Brown Univ. 1850.
2 Capt. Percival was early in the merchant service, but soon connected
with the navy. During the last war with Gt. Britain, he was in several
important engagements; one of which was between the Peacock and
Epervier. His last cruise was in command of the Constitution in 1843.
He left $2000 to the West Parish in this town, the interest to be appropri-
ated to the payment of teachers of commoD schools.340
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
prominent in political life, died at his residence in
Boston, Sept 23, aged 68.1 In this town Mr. Nathan
Allyn died June 15, aged 49; Mr. Richard Kelley,
June 18, aged 73; and Capt. Frederick Scudder, Dec.
30, aged 41.2
In 1863, Rev. Henry A. Goodhue became pastor of
the Congregational Church at West Barnstable, May
20. Mr. James L. Lothrop died Feb. 10, aged 82; Mr.
David Hinckley, April 24, aged 87; Mr. John Hamblen,
April 25, aged 89: 2 : 16 ;3 Mr. Lot Eastabrook, April
29, aged 56; Matthew Cobb Esq., May 18, aged 75;4
1 Hon. B. F. Hallett grad, at Brown Univ. 1816. u As a politician lie
was deeply versed in the science of government, and as completely master
of the political history of his country. Whilst his legal attainments secured
him a high position at the bar, his eminence as a debater and popular ora-
tor made his name familiar throughout the country.” He was s. of Capt.
Benj. Hallett who d. 1849.
3 Mr. Scudder was s. of Oliver who was son of Isaiah, b. 1768, the s.
of Ebenezer.
3 James Hamblen was from London, and tradition says was bro. of
Giles, one of the first settlers at Middletown, Ct., who also came first to
Be. The name has been variously written — often Hamblin, and as often
Hamlin and Hamlen. Some went early from here to Turner, Me.; others
in various directions. To the Barnstable family is to be traced the lineage
of the present Vice President of the IT. S. A. Mr. James Hamblen, who
d. 1690, and his w. Anne, had James prob. b. in Eng.; Hannah; Isaac;
Bartholomew b. in Be. April 11, 1642; John June 26, 1644; Sarah 1647;
Eleazer March 17, 1649 ; and Israel June 25, 1G52. James Jr. m. Mary
Dunham, dr. John, Nov. 20,1662, and had Mary 1664; Elisa. Feb. 13, 1665,
who m. John Scudder July 31, 1689; Eleazer and Experience, gemini,
April 12, 1668; James Aug. 26, 16G9; Jona. March 3, 1670-1; Eben’r
July 29, 1674; Elisha 1677, d. inf.; Hope 1680; Job Jan. 15, 1681; John
Jan. 12, 1683; Benj. 1685; and Elkanah. Bartholomew m. Susanna
Dunham Jan. 20, 1673, and d. April 24, 1704, aged 63. They had Sami
Dec. 25, 1674; John June 19, 1686; Ebn’r March 23, 1689; and seven
daughters. John m. Sarah Bearse 1667, and had a large family, 9 daugh-
ters, and sons John, Eben’r, and Benj. Eleazer m. Mehit. Jenkins 1675,
and had Isaac Aug. 20, 1676 ; Joseph Nov. 20, 1680, who d. 1766; Mehit.
1682; Elisha 1685; Ichabod 1687; and Shubael. Israel, by 1st w. Abi-
fail, and 2d, Jemima, had 4 daughters, and sons Israel, Joseph, and Jacob.
oseph mentioned above m. Zervia Dillingham, dr. John of Sandwich,
Feb. 8, 1798; and was a substantial farmer, militia officer, and good citizen.
4 Mr. Cobb was ling a well-known merchant in Boston. He began his
business life in this, Vis native town, and was not only largely engaged in
trade, but in navigat on and ship-building. He removed to Boston in 1836,
but returned here ii . 1861. In various offices held by him here, as else-
where, the duties we e discharged with ability and fidelity. An honorable
man, a genial friend, a public-spirited citizen.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
341
Mr. Jason Howland, May 25, aged 67; and Frederic
W. Crocker Esq., June 11, aged 54.1
The great political question has been, for the last
year or two, here, as elsewhere, Can the restoration
of the constitutional relations between the United
States and each and all the individual States be
effected?” Each passing month has seemed pregnant
with events that seal the destiny of a nation. This
town has proved no exception to the general spirit
of patriotism that pervades all hearts, truly loyal, in
every community. The political agitations of the day
though calmly viewed in all the loyal states, it was
early apparent were not to be, as some had vainly
hoped,
“ Like fire that’s kindled in brushwood,
And for a moment burns.”
A nation must needs have its strength against domes-
tic foes tested, to perfectly consolidate its power and
secure permanent prosperity and peace. The problem
to be solved is nothing short of this: Shall civilization,
in its journey with the sun, sink in endless night for
the gratification of such as would fain
“ wade through slaughter to a throne; ”
or shall the ordeal prove that these United States can
not only govern themselves, but, this demonstrated,
have strength to stand, even though the world beside
were arrayed against them ? In the issue, the heart
of no true patriot will fail. ' If latent treason lurk
under the guise of loyalty, any and every measure
that tends to the grand result will be opposed; but
1 Mr. Crocker, eldest son of Hon. David Crocker, who for many years
was high sheriff, grad. H. C. 1829, and, the last ten years, was clerk of the
courts for this county—a gent, whose tastes were literary, and somewhat
poc deal.342
HISTOBY OF BABNSTABIiE COUNTY.
Jove of country second only to love of God, the pre-
vailing sentiment, will always sustain the right The
grisis demands full loyalty, the ready fealty of all, the
gordial and prompt support of those to whom sever-
ally, as citizens, is committed the country’s defence:—
u Pro rege, pro lege, pro patria semper.”
Our,Annals of Barnstable are being concluded.
May this ancient town ever occupy a position of
prominence in the national patriotism; and may these
pages be as favorably received by its dwellers as they
are respectfully and impartially conceived. Many are
they who, being scattered abroad, have been accus-
tomed to look back to this “cradle of an honored
race” as the place whence they themselves “have
drawn the principles and habits that have made them
prosperous and honored wherever they have gone to
geek their fortunes in the wide world. To the hearts
of others, it is hallowed by moving associations as the
home of beloved parents or revered forefathers.”1 All
such will scan these Annals with interest, and, we
trust, with satisfaction. There may be important
omissions noted by some readers; the author can
only say they were not intended, and were unavoid-
able. There will ever be much of history that can-
not be written, but which is, nevertheless, a memory
embalmed by kindred and friends.
1 Palfrey.ANNALS OF BARNSTABLE.
343
DEPUTIES.
1639.	Joseph Hull,	1.
44 Thos. Dimoc,	8.
1640.	Jas. Cudworth, inelig.
“ Anthony Annable, 12.
1641.	Wm. Thomas,	1.
1642.	John Cooper,	2.
1643.	Henry liowley, 1.
xrs.
1643.	Henry Bourne,	2.
1644.	Henry Cobb,	9.
1645.	Isaac Robinson,	2.
1646.	Thos. Hinckley,	6.
1652. Nath’l Bacon,	13.
lt>56. John Smith,	3.
1663. Jno. Chipman,	7.
1666.	Joseph Lothrop,	15.
Y«.
1692. John Gorum,	3.
“ John Otis,	8.
1695. John Green,	1.
1700.	Thos. Hinckley,	1.
1701.	John Bacon,	2.
1704.	Sam’l Hinckley,	2.
1705.	James Hamblin, 1.
1707. Sam’l Chipman, 3.
1711.	Joseph Lothrop, 3.
1712.	Daniel Parker, 4.
1718.	Sliubael Gorham, 20.
1737. Jno. Russell,	2.
1741. Sylvs. Bourne, 2.
1743. Robert Davis, 2.
1745. James Otis,	20.
1757. Edward Bacon, 8.
1763. Cornelius Crocker, 2.
1765. Nymphas Marston, 6.
1771. David Davis,	4.
1775.	Joseph Otis,	1.
1776.	Eli Phinney,	1.
REPRESENTATIVES.
zn.
1777.	Eben. Jenkins,	3.
1780.	Sturgis Gorham,	4.
1782.	Shearj. Bourne,	7.
1783.	Sam’l Hinckley,	2.
1786. Lot Nye.	3.
1790. Sam’l Smith,	2.
“ Eben. Crocker,	2.
1798. David Scudder,	1.
1802.	Isaiah L. Green,	1.
1803.	Jonas Whitman,	8.
1804.	Richard Lewis,	4.
1807. Eben. Lothrop,	2.
1809.	Jabez Howland,	7.
“ Joseph Blish,	2.
1810.	Job C. Davis,	2.
1811.	Nehe. Lovell,	1.
44 Naler Crocker,	8.
1812.	Lemuel Shaw,	1.
44 Nath’l Jenkins,	3.
44 Wm. Lewis,	12.
1821. Nymphas Marston,	3.
Yrs.
1669.	Thos. Huckins,	9.
1670.	Wm. Crocker,	3.
1672. Jno. Thompson,	2.
1675. Barnabas Lothrop,	7.
1682. Sam’l Allyn,	3.
1685. Shubael Dimoc,	3.
1689. Jno. Gorum,	3.
1824. Benj. Hallet.	2.
1830.	David Hinckley,	8.
“ Charles Marston,	4.
1831.	Henry Crocker,	6.
1833. Zenas Weeks,	5.
18.4. Natli’l Hinckley,	8.
1837.	Wm. A. Lewis,	1.
“ Sam’l Pitcher,	2.
1838.	Seth Goodspeed,	1.
1839.	Daniel Bassett,	2.
“ Thos. B. Lewis,	5.
1843. Josiah Hinckley,	4.
44 Job Handy,	2.
1845. Chas. C. Bearse,	2.
1847.	Sam’l A. Wiley,	2.
1853. Edwin Baxter,	1.
1855.	Rufus S. Pope,	1.
44 Asa E. Lovell,	2.
1856.	John A. Baxter,	1.
“ Nathan Crocker,	2.
1665.	Nath’l Bacon,	1.
44 Tristram Hull,	6.
44 Jno. Chipman,	4.
1666.	Jno. Thompson,	7.
1667.	Wm. Crocker,	2.
44 Joseph Lothrop,	21.
1668.	Thos. Huckins,	9.
1673. John Gorham,	4.
1675. Barns. Lothrop,	5.
1679.	James Lewis,	5.
1680.	Sam’l Ajlyn,	4.
1682. John Howland,	9.
1685. Shubael Dimoc,	6.
1714.*John Lewis,	2.
“ ♦Joseph Lothrop,	3.
44 ♦John Baker,	7.
44 ♦Joseph Smith,	18.
1716. John Thacher,	8.
1719.	George Lewis,	8.
44 David Loring,	10.
1720.	Shubael Gorham,	12.
‘4 Joseph Hinckley,	13.
1723. Joseph Crocker,	6.
1727. Sam’l Chipman,	3.
1730. Benj. Crocker,	3.
1732.	Col. Gorham,	1.
1733.	David Crocker,	19.
1735. John Thacher,	4.
1738. Robert Davis,	14.
SELECTMEN.
1740. John Gorham,	6.
1745. James Otis,	14.
1751.	Matthias Smith,	2.
1752.	Silvs. Bourne,	3.
44 Joseph Blish,	3.
44 Dan’l Davis,	25.
1756. Edw. Bacon,	12.
44 Isaac Hinckley,	5.
1762. Nymphas Marston, 11.
1765. Eli Phinney,	6.
44 Matthias Fuller,	3.
1772. Joseph Otis,	5.
1776. Eben. Jenkins,	3.
1779. Jona. Crocker,	5.
44 Thos. Crocker,	2.
1781.	Eleazer Scudder,	1.
1782.	Lot Nye,	3.
1783.	Joseph Davis,	1.
1784.	Eben. Bacon,	19.
1785.	David Parker,	6.
“ Joseph Smith,	10.
1791. Joseph Crocker,	10.
1795. David Scudder,	4.
1798. Nath’l Lewis,	3.
44 Richard Lewis,	29.
1801. Nath’l Jenkins,	7.
1805.	John Davis,	8.
44 Jno. Crocker,	2.
1807. Jno. Bodfish,	10.
1813.	Isaac Hodges,	2.
1815. Naler Crocker,	13.
1820. Lemuel Nye,	8.
1827.	Asa Hinckley,	1.
1828.	James Marchant,	3.
44 Chas. Marston,	8.
1829.	James Smith,	2.
1831. Josiah Hinckley,	4.
4* Zach’s Hamblen,	2.
1833. Eben. Bacon,	10.
44 Stephen C. Nye,	4.
1836. Henry Crocker,	2.
44 Nath’l Hinckley,	10.
44 Samuel Pitcher,	2.
1838. Daniel Bassett,	10.
44 Lothrop Davis,	9.
1840.	Zenas Weeks,	1.
44 James Lewis,	2.
1842.	Seth Hallet,	2.
1843.	Thos B. Lewis,	2.
1845. Thos. Stetson,	3.
1848.	Chas. C. Bearse,	12.
1849.	Fred. Scudder,	7.
1850.	Chas. Lewis,	2.
1851.	Robinson Weeks,	1.
1856.	Luther Hinckley,	1.
1857.	Nath’l Hinckley,	2.
44 Joseph R. Hall,	7.
♦From 1692, the time of the union of the two colonies, to the date above, we have been
unable to find any records which show who were the selectmen during the interim. It
is not improbable that some of the gentlemen previously named continued, by succes-
sive elections, longer than the number of years named; it is also highly probable that
some of those with the ♦ prefixed were in office earlier than the date of election given.344
RlSTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
TOWN TREASURERS *
Yrs.
29.
7.
15.
3.
15.
1780. Joseph Otis,
1788. Jona. Crocker,
1797. Thos. Crocker,
1808. Jabez Howland,
1812. Naler Crocker,
Yrs.
8.
10.
11.
4.
12.
1824. Jas. N. Howland,
1826. Josiah Hinckley,
1836. Calvin Stetson,
1843. Fred. Parker,
1847. Ferd. G. Kelley,
Yrs
2.
11.
6.
4.
17.
1713. Eben. Lewis,
1741. John Otis,
1748. Robert Davis,
1751. Isaac Hinckley,
1765. Daniel Davis,
1644.tThos. Hinckley,
1660.iJoscph Lothrop,
1696.$Samuel Allyn,
1713. John Otis,	2.
1726. Nath’l Otis,	4.
1730. David Crocker,	23.
1751. Isaac Hinckley,	8.
TOWN CLERKS.
1754. Robert Davis,	Yrs. 1.
1762. Daniel Davis,	2.
1764. Edward Bacon,	7.
1771. Samuel Jenkins,	1.
1772. Josiah Crocker,	9.
1780. Eben. Bacon,	25.
1805. Jabez Howland,	8.
1812. Naler Crocker,	11.
1824. Jas. N. Howland,	2.
1820. Josiah Hinckley,	11.
1837. Calvin Stetson,	6.
1843.	Fred. Parker,	2.
1844.	Ferd. G. Kelley,	20.
♦Our tables of Treasurers and Clerks are unavoidably imperfect, running back in the
one instance, as is seen, to 1713; and in the other, to the same date, except as we gather
isolated facts aside from the official record of elections. These omissions we can best
explain by a transcript from the entries on the first page of the oldest book of records to
be found in the town clerk’s custody. It may be, as suggested in a note, p. 255, that
some records “ were carried to Plymouth, and there lost,” but the following is au hentic:
“At a meeting of the inhabitants of the Town of Be., June 30, 1736, John Thacher
Esq. moderator, Then voted that the old Town-Book as to the articles contained in the
same to be of future use, be transcribed by the Town Clerk, into a new book to be pro-
cured by him with as much speed as conveniently may.” “ Barnstable Town Book,
anno 1736, bo’t per David Crocker, Town Clerk.” “ The 15 Oct., 1649, ordered by the
inhabitants that Henry Cobb, Isaac Robinson, Thos. Lothrop, and Thos. Hinckley do
peruse the old Town Book and record such material useful orders as they find therein
into the Town Book, and the rest in the old book to be cancelled by them.” “ This 18
Feb., lr>58, at a meeting of Thos. Hinckley, Hy. Cob, Isaac Robinson, and Thos. Loth-
rop for perusing the old Town Book and recording such material useful orders as they
find therein, into this Town Book, cancelling the rest, found in the order bearing date
Oct. 15, 1649; In perusing whereof they find as followeth, viz:” Then follow grants,
orders, lists of inhabitants admitted, and Indian deeds, but nothing from which may be
ascertained successive elections. Doubtless much has thus been irretrievably lost that
would be of interest in history.
f The first article transcribed from the “ old book ” bears date 1644, attested by “ Thos.
Hinckley, 8~.riba.” Ho was clerk many years.
1 We find orders copied into the above-named book that were attested by Joseph
Lothrop in 1660, 1683, 85, ’86, ’88, ’92, and ’95.
$ Samuel Allyn, as town clerk, attests orders 1695, »97, ’98, >99, 1701, ’02, ’04. ’05. He
was probably succeed# 1 immediately by John Otis, but at what date is uncertain.THE
ANNALS OF THE TOWN
O F
EASTHAM.
“It is a bevebend thing to see ah ancient castle not IN DECAT 5 HOW MUCH MOBB
TO BEHOLD ANCIENT FAMILIES WHICH HATE 8TOOD AGAINST THE WAVES AND WEATHERS OF
time.”—Lord Bacon.
YOL. II.	44
(346)
♦
TO SOLOMON FREEMAN, ESQ.,
OF BREWSTER,
Three generations of whose ancestry, descended from our common progenitor
Edmund, of Sandwich, were of Eastiiam ; viz.:
John, the Assistant, his son William, and his son William ; from which last was
Solomon, of Harwich, senator and judge, whose son Solomon, also senator, was
the honored parent of HIM with whom now survives the name of sire and grandsire,
(a name which, again transmitted, it was fondly hoped would long be borne by ONE
just entered upon manhood with bright prospects, energetic enterprise, and character
well worthy of the lineage, when,— alas 1 with deep sympathy we advert to the
bereavement,—
‘By foreign hands his dying eyes were closed,
By foreign hands his decent limbs composed,
By foreign hands his distant grave adorned,
By strangers honored and by strangers mourned,*
his ashes finally r« urning to repose at home with kindred dust), these ANNALS are
respectfully
INSCRIBED
by his friend and remote kinsman,
THE AUTHOR.ANNALS OE EASTHAM.
Almost from the time of the arrival of the May-
flower in Cape Cod Harbor, Nauset was familiar to the
early settlers at Plymouth, who often in their need re-
sorted hither to procure the means of subsistence, as
also for other purposes; but no attempt was made
either to begin a plantation or purchase lands until
the year 1640. At this time, “ the purchasers,” or
“old comers,” as sometimes called, obtained a grant
from the Plymouth Court of a tract extending “ from
the bounds of Yarmouth, three miles from the east-
ward of Namskaket, and across the neck, from sea to
sea.” No settlement, however, was begun. The tract
remained still unimproved, except by Indians, for sev-
eral years.
Inhabitants of Plymouth, in 1643, becoming dissat-
isfied with their location, and contemplating a move-
ment which involved the abandonment of their present
position, turned their thoughts to Nauset1 Governor
1 Notwithstanding the favorable impression they had at first conceived of
Plymouth, many of them objected: “ the position is disadvantageous; the
harbor is not favorable; the town is in the neighborhood of one of the most
barren spots in New England; and it is impossible it can ever become a
flourishing and opulent capitol.” Thus they reasoned. See Mourt’s Rela-
tion. Moreover, some of the inhabitants had already removed, so great
was their dissatisfaction; and others had requested a dismission from the
church that they might choose a more eligible location. It became, there-
fore, a serious question whether, to prevent the church from being further
weakened, and to save it from danger of total disruption, it were not better
to remove in a li ady. Many meetings were held to confer on the subject.
(347)348
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Bradford joined with others in proposing it for the
commencement of a settlement anew, and a commit-
tee was appointed and sent forth to explore the prem-
ises and make report. Upon their return, the church
applied for and obtained the consent of those who
had obtained the grant of lands here in 1640. Still,
some persons contended that the examination had
been superficial, and that further exploration was ne-
cessary ; and this led to the appointment of yet an-
other committee, instructed to inspect the locality
thoroughly, and then, if judged expedient, arrange
with the natives for the purchase of the territory.
Accordingly, “ Mr. Thomas Prence, John Doane, Nicho-
las Snow, Josias Oook, Richard Higgins, John Smalley,
and Edward Bangs,” — all of whom became subse-
quently settlers of the town, “with Gov. Bradford
and others,” repaired to Nauset and made a full and
accurate survey. These gentlemen were unanimously
of opinion that the place was not sufficiently exten-
sive to meet the views of the Plymouth settlers in
regard to both present accominor]ation and future in-
crease for the entire company; but, nevertheless,
thought proper to purchase of the Indians.1 Return-
Fraternal feeling prevailed, but there was diversity of opinion. Some op-
posed to a removal would consent rather than witness a dissolution of the
church, — provided a better location could be found; others were resolved
at all events to remove; and, finally, a compromise was effected, it being
agreed that the church remove in a body, — provided the place selected
shall be commodious for the whole, and for such additions as may be rea-
sonably expected.
1 The purchase embraced lands claimed by Mattaquason, sachem of
Monamoyick, and George, the successor of A spinet, sachems of NauseU
Of the former they bought the tract called Pochet, with two islands lying
before Patanumaquut, and a beach and small island upon it; also, all the
land called NamskaJcet, extending northward to the territory belonging to
the sachem George, except, ng a small island called Pochet Island, which
the sachem reserved. Of George they purchased ail the land belonging
to him, extending northward from the bounds of the territory claimed by
Mattaquason, excepting a small neck lying by the harbor, on the E. side
of the tract,— which neck the c om. promised to fence, that the Indians
might use it as a corn-field. It was further agreed between the parties thatANNALS OP EASTHAM.
849
ing to Plymouth, their mission completed, they re-
ported their doings, as also the conclusion to which
they had arrived, viz.: that Nauset was not extensive
as desired, and that it was too remote from the centre
of the colony to be suitable for the seat of govern-
ment. The church, for these and other considerations,
relinquished the idea of removal as a body; but re-
solved that such as are still intent on removal have
liberty to do so, and begin a new plantation, — pro-
vided they pay for the purchase made by the commit-
tee in behalf of the church. In the meanwhile, a
grant had been obtained of Court, as follows: “ The
Court doth grant unto the Church of New Plymouth,
or those that go to dwell at Nauset, all the tract of
land lying between sea and sea, from the purchaser’s
bounds at Namskaket to the herring brook at Billings-
gate, with said herring brook, and all the meadows on
Indians, the natural inhabitants of the place, shall have liberty to get shell-
fish in the cove, and that they shall have a share of the blubber at any
time driven ashore, the proportion to be determined by the English. At
the same time, it being demanded, ‘ Who lays claim to Billingsgate V (which
was understood to be all the land within the Bay, N. of the territory pur-
chased of George), and the reply being, ‘It belongs to no one,’ the com.
said, ‘ Then that land also is ours/ “ to which the Indians assented.” It is
proper here to state that the lands at Billingsgate, being held many years
without consideration made to the natives, were finally claimed by an In-
* dian who presented himself as rightful owner. Of this Indian, calling
himself Lt. Anthony, the town bought the tract, — extending from the
northern limit of Nauset to a little brook, called by the natives Sapokonish,
and by the English called Bound-brook; Anthony reserving only a small
neck called Tuiiamnest. This latter transaction was about the year 1666.
We may add here, that on the decease of sachem George, the inhabitants
finding it inconvenient to have Indians located at both extremities of the
township, made agreement with his people for possession of the neck of
land at the mouth of the harbor; and for this tract, called Tonset, they, be-
sides other considerations, secured to the Indians a position at Gesquoques-
set, which the natives were to enclose for their own use. This was previ-
ous to the transaction previously named. The inhabitants, in 1662, also
purchased the fertile island of Pochet, that had been reserved by the In-
dians at the first sale made by Mattaquason. Twelve years before the
claims of the Indians were fully satisfied, the line between Eastham and
the lands belonging to “ the purchasers, or old comers,” was settled; the
Court determining that “the line shall begin at the river Namskaket, and
extend to the Eastern Harbor.”350
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
both sides the said brook, with the great Bass-pond
there, and all the meadows and islands lying within
the said tract ”1
The associates for removing to Nauset, agreeing to
the terms proposed by the church, and Mr. Prence
having possession of the above grant, soon after be-
gan the settlement, — the fourth town on the Cape.2
Situation and Boundaries. — Eastham is situated in lati-
tude 41° 51/ N., and longitude 69° 56' W. from Greenwich. Its
distance from Boston, following the main county road, is 94
miles;3 from Plymouth, 52 miles; and from Barnstable, 22 miles,
E. N. E. Its original bounds gave it a territory of fifteen miles
in length by two and one-half in breadth, having the Atlantic
Ocean on the E.; Barnstable Bay and Namskaket4 on the W.;
the herring brook of Billingsgate5 on the N.; and Monamoyick®
on the S. But, by reason of dismemberment, its present boun-
daries give a territory of only six miles in length, and two and
one-half miles breadth, having the Atlantic on the E.; Well-
fleet on the N.; Barnstable Bay on the W.; and Orleans on the
S. and S. E.
Natural Divisions, etc. — Although we are called, in re-
cording the progress of the town from its incipiency to the pres-
ent time, to note events that, for a period, pertained to a large
territory embracing Eastham as it was, — including not only
1	^ lis grant extended “ S. to Monamoyiek Bay, Eastern Harbor, or Great
Harbor, as then sometimes called. At one end it was bounded by ‘ the
lands belonging to the purchasers, or old comers/ afterward settled by the
name of Harwich; and at the other by lands that were afterward em-
braced in the incorporation granted to Truro, — the length being about 15
miles.”
2	“ The church at Plymouth,” we are assured, “ regretted their departure;
for they who went out from her were among the most respectable of the
inhabitants of Plymouth; and she viewed herself as a mother grown old
and forsaken by her children, though not in their affections, yet in their
company and personal assistance.” But, “ however the emigration might
be lamented, it was, doubtless, productive of great good to the colony. It
did not essentially injure the church at Plymouth, their places being soon
supplied by others; and it eventually led to the settlement of all the lower
part of the Cape, thus preventing the Indians there, who were yet a for-
midable body in comparison with the few white settlers, from joining in any
hostile attempts, if they were so inclined, against the English in the wars
that afterwards ensued” in New England.
3	In a direct line, L e., by water, 66 m., it being S. E. from Boston.
4	Now Brewster.	5 Now Truro.	6 Now Chatham.ANNALS OF EASTHAM.
351
Eastham as it now is, but Wellfleet as a constituent part of the
old domain until 1763, and Orleans until 1797; yet, in describ-
ing the natural divisions, face of the country, soil, etc., of what
is at present Eastham, we must take this ancient town in its dis-
membered state;—once extensive, for forty years after assuming
its municipal charter the only township east of Yarmouth; for a
century commanding in territory, in population, and in wealth;
but finally despoiled of a large part of each by the springing into
separate existence of valuable portions which it had long cher-
ished, since numbered among the most important and opulent of
the Cape towns. If Plymouth “regretted ” the loss of a few, but
in her circumstances comparatively many, “ among the most re-
spectable inhabitants,” when the little band took their departure
for Nauset, “viewing herself as a mother grown old and forsaken
by her children, though not in their affections, yet in their com-
pany and personal assistance,”1 much more might Eastham la-
ment the secessions that have made the town, in population,2
wealth, and extent, the least among its compeers.
When Eastham was first peopled by English, its approach from
the seat of government was relieved by only three settlements,
Sandwich, Barnstable, and Yarmouth. The intervening distan-
ces were either a wilderness in which no road was cut, but where
were worn the foot-paths of natives; or Indian planting grounds,
with here and there the dottings of their wigwams. Passing,
at the present day, down the Cape below the ancient Matta-
cheese, the traveller is introduced to the former seat of the an-
cient Nausets, after journeying in an easterly direction from
Yarmouth through Dennis, — whether by the ancient way over
Scargo, or that by Nobscusset and Sursuit, to the Indian Sawka-
tucket, now Brewster, and thence northerly through Pochet, now
Orleans, leaving Potanumaquut, now Harwich, on the right. He
finds the township in great degree a continuous plain, with now and
then slightly rising grounds and corresponding depressions; the
abodes of the inhabitants for the most part unprotected by shade-
trees, bleak and exposed; and the soil generally sandy, requiring
careful nursing to make it remuneratively productive. Still,
there are portions of the township that are comparatively fertile,
yielding large crops. The remark so applicable to other towns
1	Morton’s Memorial.
2	The settlement of Truro, commenced in 1700, was also by emigrants
from Eastham.352
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
that the course selected for the county road presents to a stranger,
in passing, the least favorable view of the soil, is pertinent here.
Different parts of the township have distinctive appellations;
but there can scarcely be said to be a village within its bounds;
the dwellings are scattered. The Indian name of Nauset still
inures to the northeastern portion ; the northwestern part, a
little north of tie centre of the township,is Silver Spring; the
portion a little southward of the camp-ground glories in a name
unhistoric and less euphonious, Half-way Ponds ; the westerly
part, lying west of the meeting-house, south of Great and Long
Ponds, and north of Great-Meadow, rejoices in the name of
Great Neck; the extreme southwest is Skaket. The post-
>ffice designations are Eastham and North Eastham.
So distinguishing a feature of the township are its super-
abounding waters that we may most readily describe the place
by reference to these. There are 8 fresh-water ponds. The most
considerable is Great Pond, situated about one-fourth in. from
the western shore, north of which pond the explorers landed
Dec. 6, 1620, and spent the night.1 The next is Long Pond,
separated from the former by a narrow neck only about 40 feet
wide. The next largest is Mill Pond, about one-eighth m. from
Long Pond and connected with the northern arm of Nauset
Harbor. This small harbor, sometimes called Stage Harbor, was
formerly the first opening into the beach affording any con-
venient haven, that, in sailing from Race Point south, was to be
found on the east side of the Cape. Its entrance was in this
town, narrow and obstructed by a bar;2 but for many years it
has been moving south and is now in Orleans. The harbor con-
sists of two arms, one extending north, shallow and accompanied
by about 200 acres of salt marsh protected from the ocean by a
narrow beach ; the other reaching southwest, and denominated
:See Yol. I. 80. More than half a century back, attempts were made
to open a communication for alewives between this pond and the bay The
channel soon closed.
2 On this bar was a depth of not exceeding 8 feet at full sea. The in-
domitable enterprise of the people, in days long gone by, inspired the
thought of uniting the ocean and the bay by a canal from near this point.
The cherished desire, though encouraged by the lowness of the site and
the consequent inconsiderable excavations required, has always been held
in abeyance by the conviction that if such canal were cut and all proper
appliances constructed, winds and waves will be inexorable,—permitting
no canal long to exist as an enterprise of utility.ANNALS OF EASTHAM.
353
Town Cove, having, in ordinary tides, about 14 feet in its main
channel, and being secure against winds.1
On the west shore is a sandy flat reaching from Suet to the
bounds of Wellfleet; it is about 1 m. wide, is bare, or nearly so
at low water, and then, for about 3 hours may be traversed by
carriages. Here there are creeks that, at high water, admit small
vessels; but there is no good harbor on this side.2 The first of
these creeks is what is called Great Meadow River, southwest of
the meeting-house ; on the east side of this river, or creek, being
a body of salt marsh. About \ m. south is Boat Meadow River,
running from the southeast, with marshes extending from its
mouth nearly to Town Cove, and leaving only a narrow ridge
for a road. This marsh comes within 15 rods of the swamp at
the head of the creek, or brook, denominated Jeremiah’s Gutter;
and the land here is so low that tides have flowed entirely across
from bay to ocean, completely insulating the northern part of
the Cape. There are also several inconsiderable brooks that
connect with the waters of the bay, viz., Indian Brook, which is
in part the boundary between this town and Wellfleet, and con-
necting with the harbor at Silver Springs; Cook’s Brook, f m.
south, dry half the year; Snow’s Brook, 1 m. still further south,
quite small; and 1 m. further south is Grape Swamp, which gives
its scanty superfluous waters to the bay.
On the eastern side of the township, in a comparatively fertile
tract, the road lies across a small stream whose waters at low
tide are fresh ;3 and in this locality are about 200 acres from
which large quantities of Indian corn and rye are produced.
We have not spoken very commendingly of the soil, as the
1	The cove answers well for small vessels. Whether it might not be
made a good harbor by opening a sufficient passage to it from the ocean, is
a question long time ago agitated. But, alas ! storms, winds, tides, choking
sands, — these are formidable opponents of all such improvements.
2	The incessant action of the sea in producing changes m the shores is es-
pecially noticeable here. Mr. Pratt has said, “ Large stumps are to be seen
nearly a m. from the shore; and original peat swamps have been found from
which fuel has been obtained. The unavoidable inference is, of course,
that this flat was at some time a part of the upland long since washed away
by the action of winds and tides. The shore on the other side of the town
has been washed more than 100 yards in several places within the memory
of some now living (1840), and a large peat swamp, which had been buried
many feet deep in the sand, perhaps for ages, has been washed out in the
bluff and is digged for fuel.”
3	Jeremiah’s Gutter may also be regarded as a brook. It is, however,
only about 14 rods in length, very narrow ; and, indeed, there is little space
for any brooks to run; they are al Tminutive.
vol. ii.	45$u
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
reader is awftre ; £nd> to the eye of the traveller, this town would
present a strange contrast with the productive bottom-lands or
even table-lands of other sections of our country, and especially
the prairies of the West. One fact, however, is remarkable,—that
while other towns in the county can boast of superior farms, this
town is the only one of the thirteen that produces sufficient
grain for home consumption. More than this, — a thousand
bushels of Indian corn are annually sent from this town to a
market abroad; in years past, more than three thousand have
been exported. Farmers were accustomed to raise, each, about
600 bushels a year.1
On the western side of the township, a beach nearly half a
mile wide extends from the north line to Great Pond, and then
stretches across the township to Town Cove. This barren tract,
about 1,700 acres now bereft of every particle of vegetable
mould, once produced successive crops of wheat and other grain.
The soil here was, indeed, always light, but, nevertheless, suf-
ficiently productive amply to compensate the little labor required
upon it. In 1802, such had become its condition, that the sand,
lodging in some places against the beach-grass, had been raised
into mounds 50 feet high, where before no such elevations exist-
ed. In other places, valleys and swamps had been filled. Wher-
ever a strong-rooted tree or bush withstood the winds, the mass
of earth adhering to the roots resembled a small tower. In other
places, rocks, once covered with soil, were denuded, and, by reason
of their incessant lashings by driven sands, had come to be white
as if recently taken from the quarry.
Billingsgate Point is on the west side of the township, about
six miles from the main lands with which it was formerly con-
nected. For many years it has been an island, the sea having
broken over and washed away the intermediate isthmus so thor-
oughly that, in two places, are channels of sufficient depth for
small vessels to pass. It is a mere sandy island or beach. On
this Point, so called, a lighthouse was erected, in 1822, greatly
beneficial to the interests of navigation in the bay, and especially
a guide to vessels that would enter the safe and commodious
harbor of Provincetown. Other islands there are, but of little
1 One farmer has raised here in a single year 800 bushels, planting but 60
acres. The yield is generally from 35 to 45 bushels of Indian corn, per
acre, and from 20 to 30 of rye. The land being exceedingly easy of culti-
vation, little labor is required. “ Two boys with a horse, may easily culti-
vate and hoe.tl ree or fen acres a day.”ANNALS OF EASTfiAM.
m
account. Thres other lighthouses were placed on the east o$
Atlantic side of ;he township, in 1838, that have proved of great
advantage, especially to vessels coming from foreign lands and
aiming for Boston harbor, as also to all vessels passing around
the Cape. These lights are about three miles north of Nauset
Harbor.
Excepting a tract of oaks and pines, about one mile and a half
wide, adjoining the south line of Wellfleet, no wood remains in
the township. It was greatly unfortunate for Eastham that its
forests were cut down. Had a prudent forecast prevailed, the
stripping from the face of the earth the natural protection given
against winds and storms would have been duly restrained by
economical use, and a sufficiency of timber shades left for both
protection and ornament, greatly to the advantage of both town
and county. For want of such foresight and frugality, —
“ Where dense forests reared their shady heads,”
the relentless axe of the woodman came and felled a growth
“ Coeval with the world, a venerable sight!”
the fury of the winds, no obstacle interposing, now spends its
force with desolating influence, and, having already devoted the
scene to barrenness, threatens even greater encroachments.1
The business of the town is still largely agricultural, but also
maritime. Some young men engage in the merchant service,
sailing ships from Boston, New York, or other commercial ports;
some vessels are employed in summer in bringing lumber from
Maine, and in winter engage in the West India trade; but the
fisheries are prominent. The whale-fishery has become a thing
that was; the cod and mackerel fisheries are prosecuted. The
benefits of the shell-fishery in Town Cove always formed an item
of no inconsiderable profit.2 The mechanic arts are prosecuted
as extensively as the convenience of the inhabitants requires.
The wheelwright, the tanner and currier, etc., are here.
Educational privileges are secured to all, — the district system
1	The only protection that can now be afforded, is the planting of beach-
grass and the making of suitable enclosures. By these means, the inhabits
ants, although they cannot retrieve what is already lost, succeed meas-
urably in guarding the still fertile grounds which flourish amid deserts of
moving sands.
2	The manufacture of salt has received attention; its history here, how-
ever, would be on] 7 the repetition of its decline in other towns. In 1837,
there were 54 salf works here, yielding 22,370 bushels. The cod-fishery,
gave 1200 quintals; and the mackerel, 4,550 barrels.356
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
still prevailing. The town is divided into four school-districts,
each district having a commodious school-house. The other
public buildings are a Town Hall and a Methodist Meeting-
house.1 2 * * * * *
The inhabitants of Eastham are not less distinguished than
others in the county for intelligence, industry, and enterprise;
nor, it is to be hoped, do they fail to retain in good degree the
habits and virtues that did honor to their ancestors.
Progress of the Town, etc.—The settlement of the
town, commenced in April, 1644, under favorable
auspices,8 was so augmented by accessions, that ap-
plication was soon made to the Colony Court for its
incorporation; and, June 2, 1646, the result was re-
corded in these words: “Nacset is granted to be a
township and to have all the privileges of a township
as other towns within the government have.” Thus
recognized, a meeting of the inhabitants, duly con-
vened, elected Nicholas Snow town-clerk, Edward
Bangs town treasurer, and Josias Cook town consta-
ble.
There is no reason to doubt that those dismissed
from the Plymouth Church were early organized, and
acting in church estate at Nauset. Immediately after
taking possession of their purchase in conformity with
grant of court, they recognized the propriety of
establishing and maintaining the public worship of
Almighty God; and the meeting-house which they
erected, although but twenty ft. square, with thatched
1	The old Congregational Society has become extinct, having recently
dissolved after an existence of more than two centuries; and their meeting-
house, the frame of which was put up in 1719, has been sold and appro-
priated to a secular use. Sic mutant
2	The settlement began with seven families, in all 49 souls. It was fortu-
nate that it had the countenance and assistance of such a man as Gov.
Thomas Prence. His counsels and influence contributed essentially to
its prosperity. The company was select; the leaders generally men of
sterling worth, whose influence at the seat of government was always
effective.ANNALS OF EASTHAM.
357
roof, and ports in the sides of the building for use,
should occasion require the use of muskets in defence,
shows that they were disposed to be prompt in every
duty.1 The Rev. John Mayo went from Barnstable to
Nauset in 1646, and remained in the exercise of his
ministry here nine years, until called to the 2d church
in Boston. The first deputies from Nauset appeared
at the General Court in 1647. Although there is a
paucity of materials for a record of events during the
time that Nauset was the discriminative appellation,
there is evidence that successive migrations were
close upon the footsteps of the pioneers.2 Secretary
Morton tells us that “ divers of the considerablest of
the church and town” of Plymouth “removed.”3
Passing over several years prior to the date of the
plantation assuming a new name, with the mention
only of the fact that Messrs. Josias Cook, Richard Hig-
gins, Nicholas Snow, Samuel Hicks,4 * * and John Doane,
represented the settlement during this period, at the
General Court, we come to the act, by which, in 1651,
it was “ ordered that the town of Nauset be henceforth
called and known by the name of Eastham.”
At this time, a fresh impulse seems have been given to the
1 It is said that* around this meeting-house, near the Town Cove, was laid
out a burial-place, — still enclosed and containing some grave-stones desig-
nating the resting-place of early settlers, but unused, for many years, as a
place of interment.
8 As early as Aug. 1644, commissioners were appointed “ to lay out the
farm-land gr. to Nathaniel Sowther, near Billingsgate.” What relation
this measure had to the settlement of Nauset, we are unable to conjecture;
unless, perhaps, it had reference to the grant made in 1640.
8 Richard Church, who was at Plymouth 1630, aged 22, removed
hither 1649. He did not long remain, for his settlement was in Hingham.
He was father of Col. Benjamin.
4 Mr. Samuel Hicks, s. of Robert, who came over 1621 and d. 1647,
and his w. Margaret, who came over and brought with her children Eph’m,
Sam’l, Lydia, who m. Edwd. Bangs, and Phebe who m. George Watson.
He was in Plymo. 1643, but the ce came here. Samuel m. Lydia Doane,
dr. John, 1645, and had Dorcas 7eb. 4, 1651; and Margaret 1654. Ho
went to Be., thence to Dartm.$58
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
settlement; and, early the next year, 1652, “ a division of the
common lands was made to the first settlers and new-comers
orders were made for securing compliance with the requisitions
of Court in regard to records of purchases of lands, divisions, ad-
justment of bounds, etc.; orders regulating and legalizing u ear-
marks for horses, cattle, and swine;” directing the constable to
collect fines imposed by the town for negligence in attending
town-meetings, on information given by the clerk, — the consta-
ble collecting to have one-half for his services; and this year also
occurred the first instance of the presentment at Court of any
resident: “Joseph Harding was presented, June 3, for carrying,
‘in his uncle’s name, an Indian’s gun to the smith to be mended.”
In 1654, “ the bounds between this town and lands belonging
4o the ‘purchasers or old comers’”—afterwards Harwich —
“ were settled.”
In 1655, the Rev. John Mayo, hitherto ministering
here, was called to settle over the Second Church
in Boston.1 The Rev. Thomas Crosby succeeded him,
being “employed to conduct public service on Lord’s
days;” to whom was promised a salary of <£50 per
annum. At this date, for the first time, we get a
glance at the freemen of the town; the list of legal
voters, May 22, was,—
1Mr. Mayo was in Barnstable in 1639, and became ‘teaching elder* in
the church of which Mr. Lothrop was pastor. His relation to the church
liere is said to have been that of “ religious teacher ” — perhaps implying
that he was not invested with the pastoral office. In Boston, he was
inducted to the pastorate Nov. 9, 1655, and continued in.office until 1673.
The Plymouth record says, “ Growing aged and unable to carry out his
office, he removed again into this Colony, and lived near Yarmouth, and not
long after fell asleep in the Lord.” Rev. Increase Mather, who succeeded
him in Boston, has, with greater particularity furnished us with the follow-
ing record: “ 1672, in the beginning of which year, Mr. Mayo, the pastor,
likewise grew very infirm, insomuch as the congregation was not able to
hear and be edified; whereupon, the brethren, the pastor manifesting his
concurrence, desired the teacher to take care for a supply of the congrega-
tion that the worship of God may be upheld among us.” Again, “ on the
5th mo. 1673, Mr. Mayo removed his person and goods to reside with his
daughter in Barnstable, where, and at Yarmouth since, he hath led a
private life, as not being able, through the infirmities of age, to attend to
the work of the ministry. The — day of May 1676, he departed this life
at Yarmouth, and was there buried.” Mr. Mayo preached the annual
'Election Sermon, June 1658. He, with his entire family, came from Eng-
land. His wife Tamsen d. at Y. a wid. Feb. 26, 1682. Their children
were Samuel, Hannah, Nath’l, Elisa., John, and Bathsheba. Hannah m.
Nath’l Bacon of Be., and Elisa, m. Joseph Howes of Y.ANNALS OF EASTHAM.
359
Henry Atkins,1
Stephen Atwood,
Edward Bangs,
Rd. Booshop,
Daniel Cole,
Job Cole,
Josiah Cook,
George Crisp,
John Doane,
Jno. Freeman,
Rd. Higgins,
Giles Hopkins,
Rd. Knowles,
John Mayo,
Nathaniel Mayo,
Wm. Merrick,
Thos. Paine,
Thos. Prence,
Thos. Roberts,
Joseph Rogers,
John Smalley,8
Ralph Smith,
Mark Snow,
Nicholas Snow,
Jona. Sparrow,
Wm. Twining,8
Rt. Wexam,
Thos. Williams,4
John Young.
Wolves were not infrequent; the bounty on four killed in
town was paid this year.
In 1656, Mr. Edward Bangs, who was engaged in merchandise,
was duly “licensed to draw and sell spirituous liquors.”
In 1658, the rate ordered to defray the town’s expenses, £15.0.9,
suggests the economy of the times.:
lMr. Henry Atkins was in Yarmouth 1641; went to Ply., and in 1655
or sooner came here. He m. Elisa. Wells July 9, 1647, who d. Mar. 14,
1661-2; he then m. Bethia Linnel Mar. 25, 1664. Issue: Mary 1648, d. inf.;
Sam’l 1651 ; Isaac 1654, d. inf.; Isaac b. in E. 1657; Desire 1665; John
1666, d. in inf.; Nath’I Dec. 25, 1667; Joseph Mar. 4, 1669; Thos. 1671;
John 1674; Mercy 1676; and Samuel 1679. Nath’l, b. 1667, by w.
Winifred had Nath’l Nov. 21, 1694; Henry 1696; Bethia 1698; Joshua
1702; Isaiah 1704 ; and Elisa. 1709. Joseph, b. 1669, by wife Martha, had
Joseph Dec. 9, 1701; Martha 1711 ; Anne 1713; Paul 1716; James 1718;
John 1721; Uriel 1722; and Hannah 1726.
4 Mr. John Smalley — the family name often written Small—was in
Pi}". 1632; and was here with the first settlers. He had children b. in Ply.,
viz. Hannah June 14, 1641, who m. Jno. Bangs Jan’y 23,1661; John Sept.
8, 1644 ; Isaac Dec. 11, 1647; and Mary, twin to Isaac, who m. John Snow
Sept. 19, 1667. The twins were baptized at Be. Feb. 27, 1648. See
Annals of Harwich and Truro.
s Mr. William Twining Sr. was in Y. 1643, and d. Ap. 15, 1659.
Stephen, b. Feb. 6, 1659, s. of William 2d., m. Abigail Young, dr. John,
Jan’y 13, 1082-3, and had Stephen Dec. 30, 1684; Eleazer Nov. 26, 1686;
Nath’l Mar. 27, 1689; Mercy Sept. 8, 1690; and John Mar. 5, 1692-3.
William, s. of Wm., m. Ruth Cole, dr. Jno., Mar. 26, 1689, and had
Elisa. 1690; Thankful 1697; Ruth 1699; Hannah 1702; William 1704;
Barnabas 1703; and Mercy 1708. William 2d is said by Mr. Savage to
have been b. in England, and to have m. Elisa. Deane, dr. Stephen, and had
Susanna Jan. 25, 1654-5; Joanna May 30,1657; Stephen Feb. 6,1659-60;
and William. It is difficult to distinguish between the families of the 1st
and 2d Wm.; but we apprehend that the wid. of the 1st Wm. was Anne,
who d. Feb. 27, 1680, and that their dr. Elisa, m. John Rogers Aug. 19,
1669; and Anne m. Thomas Bills Oct. 3, 1672.
4 Sam’l Williams was in Y. 1643; a John, by wife Mary, had Elisa, in
S. June 2, 1709; and Thomas of E. had Nath’l Apr. 24, 1655.360
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
For town officers’ wages, £3.4.0
u magistrate’s and com-
missioners’ charges,. 2.5.0
tt a drum for the mili-
tary, ....................3.0.0
“ deputies’ wages, . . 5.0.0
For Mr. Bangs’ going to
Yar. on town’s busi. £0.3.0
“ Indians killing wolves, 1.3.0
“ freight of corn to Ply. 0.5.9
£15.0.9
In 1659, the military, “ armed and equipped,” had for officers,
44Mark Snow, Capt.; Jonathan Higgins, Lieut.; Jonathan Bangs,
Ensign. The town’s proportion of troop horse ” was provided;
Thos. Paine and Edward Bangs each “ agreeing to find a man
and horse at his own expense, for two years.” Three was the
number required of the town; we are not informed by whom
the other was furnished. The following record appears this year:
“Concerning those purchasers that have lands at Satucket, such
as lie on that side of Satucket River next Eastham, shall be ac-
counted within the township for the purposes of rates; but
neither town shall have any proprieties in the same.” A rate was
ordered this year, of £6.19.8. viz.:
For the assessor’s wages, £2.14.0 ! For pikes, .... £2.16. 4
“ magistrate’s services, 1. 7.6 | “ record book, . .	. 1.10
In 1660, the Court at Plymouth ordered that the proportion
which the town shall pay for colonial expenses, shall be £2, the
same as last year. Daniel Cole was licensed to draw and sell
wines.
Now, for the first time, freemen, by order of the
Court, were permitted to vote by proxy in the elec-
tion of magistrates, instead of being required to go to
Plymouth for the purpose as heretofore ; a provision
that must have been peculiarly acceptable to a town-
ship so remote. The act required that all votes “ be
taken in open town meetings.” In this we have
evidence of the progress that was being made toward
the enjoyment of that excellent form of government
to which our country finally attained. Everything
convenient and desirable, it is not to be supposed,
could be the suggestion of a moment:
“ Tantae molis erat condere gentem.”ANNALS OF EASTHAM.
361
It may often seem to the reader, in perusing these
annals of the primitive settlements, that the lists of
voters are limited, in comparison with what may
reasonably be supposed to have been the numbers of
residents. Such is the fact: but it must be understood
that not all who were men of adult years were
entitled to the right of franchise. The fathers of the
colonies were extremely cautious in admissions to
citizenship.
Some, doubtless, found their way to every place, who were not
worthy. This last remark finds corroboration in the fact that
the present year certain delinquents must needs be punished.
As the shades as well as the bright touches of a picture are
necessary to a faithful view, so we may not omit to mention that,
besides the fine of 10s. imposed upon one of the residents, five
years before, “ for lying,” — which we hesitatingly passed by in
its appropriate place,—one of £1 was now decreed by the ma-
gistrate, upon another person, “ for slandering and belying his
neighbors; ” and, the next year, the person first fined was mulcted
in the amount of £1 for (what we may, without figure of speech,
call ‘ a fish story ’) “ lying about a whale.”1 Mr. Richard Spar-
row died this year, Jan. 3;2 and Mr. Joseph Rogers,3 Jan. 27,
1	The morality of this town was no doubt of high order; as unexception-
able, perhaps, as that of any town whatever. * These incidents prove that
every community is liable to excrescences.
2	Mr. Richard Sparrow was of Plym. 1632, here 1653, and, soon
after, deputy. His will, Nov. 19, 1659, makes his wife Pandora and son
Jonathan whom he brought with him from England, executors, and names
beside, grandchildren John, Priscilla, and Rebecca. Jonathan, Esq., dep-
uty and representative many years, magistrate, &c., as also early a military
man, m. Rebecca Bangs, dr. Edwd., Oct. 26, 1654; 2d, Hannah Mayo, wid.
of Nathaniel, and dr. of Gov. Prince; and 3d, Sarah Cobb, wid. of James
of Be., and dr. of Geo. Lewis, Nov. 23, 1698; and had Rebecca Oct. 30,
1655, who m. Dea. Thomas Freeman of H. Dec. 31, 1673; John Nov. 2,
1656; Priscilla Feb. 13, 1658; Mary Mar. 10, 1659; Apphia Dec. 11, 1660,
d. inf.; Jonathan July 9, 1665 ; and Richard Mar. 1 7, 1669-70.
3	The father of the above, Lt. Joseph Rogers, was some time in Dux-
bury, then in Sandwich, and was here about 1655, and d. 1678. Mr.
Savage says he was s. of Thomas, and was brought bv his father in the
Mayflower 1620. His children were Sarah 1633, d. inf.; Joseph July 19,
1635; Thos. Mar. 29, 1638; Elisa. Sept. 29, 1639, who m. Jonathan
Higgins Jan. 9, 1660; John Ap. 3, 1642; Mary Sept. 22, 1644; James
Oct. 18, 1648; and Hannah Aug. 8, 1652. Joseph, b. 1335, m. Susanna
Doane Feb. 4, 1660-1, and had Joseph Jan. 27, 1660-1. His wid. m.
vol II.	46362
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
by casualty. Mr. Nathaniel Mayo, deputy, died early in
1661.1
In 1662, the town became possessed, by purchase, of Pochet
Island, which, in the first sale, made by Mattaquason, had been
reserved. The town also adopted stringent measures to suppress
the sale and use of all spirituous liquors; the Court at Plymouth
the same year ordering a tax on all liquors sold at retail. This
town ordered that no white man or Indian shall furnish the con-
traband, on a penalty of 5s. for each offence. It was also agreed
that a part of every whale cast on shore shall be appropriated
for the support of the ministry.
In 1663, selectmen ,were first appointed, the Court
having provided for the selection of capable men to
be invested with certain municipal duties in every
town. The population now numbered 275. Mr. Jno.
Doane was commissioned “ to marry in Eastham.” as
was also Mr. Josias Cook the following year.
A feature of later times seems to have had an early develop-
ment here the present year; this remote, quiet, orderly settle-
ment being visited by some ‘fast young men’ from a neigh-
Stephen Snow Oct. 28, 1663. Thomas, b. 1638, m. Elisa. Snow Dec. 13,
1665, and had Elisa. 1666 ; Joseph Feb. 1, 1667 ; Hannah 1669; Thos. 1671,
d. inf.; Thos. May 6, 1672; Eleazer Nov. 3, 1673; and Nathaniel Jan. 18,
1675.
Nathaniel Mayo, s. of Rev. John, was a prominent townsman; his
will dates 1661, and was admitted to probate Mar. 4, the same year. He
m. Hannah Prince, dr. Gov. P., Feb. 13, 1650, who m. 2d Jona. Sparrow.
Mr. Mayo had ch. Thos. Dec. 7, 1650; Nathaniel Nov. 16, 1652; Samuel
Oct. 12, 1655; Hannah 1657; Theophilus Dec. 17, 1659; and Bathsheba
1662, who m. Thos. Freeman. Samuel, eldest son of Rev. John, went
from Barnstable to Oyster Bay, L. I., as is interred from a deed, given by
the Sachem, of a site of that village to Mr. Leverich, Samuel Mayo, and
Peter Wright, 1653-4, witnessed by Anthony Wright. Numbers went with
Rev. Mr. Leverich from both Sandwich and Barnstable; and Mr. Mayo
was owner of the vessel that conveyed their goods. Returning from L.
Island, he removed to Boston in 1658, and d. there 1663. By the settle-
ment of his estate, Ap. 26, 1664, it appears that he was a mariner. His
est. was adm. by “Mr. John, the father, the widow declining.” By his w.
Thomasine, dr. of Mr. Lumpkin, he had, b. in Be., Mary 1645, who m. Jona.
Bangs of E. July 16, 1664; Samuel 1647; Hannah 1650; Elizabeth 1653,
who m. Rev. Samuel Treat of E., Mar. 16, 1674; and b. in Boston, Nathl
Ap. 1, 1658; and Sarah 1660, who m. Freeman. John, also s. of Rev.
Mr. Mayo, by m. with Hannah Lecroft, 1651, had John Dec. 15, 1652;
William Oct. 7, 1654; James Oct. 3, 1656; Samuel Aug. 2, 1658; Elisha
Nov. 7, 1661; Daniel June 24, 1664; Nathaniel April 2, 1667; Thomas
June 26, 1670, d. inf.; and Thomas July 15, 1672.ANNAiS OF EASTHAM.
363
boring town. We will pass over their names, not because they
belonged to ‘first families,’ but inasmuch as their future was more
honorable and respectable. They were evidently here 4 on a
spree] — to use a phrase of modern technicality; the constable
was ‘ at home,’ although they were ‘ abroad ; ’ and the result was
an excursion to Plymouth and a fine of £2 10s. each in the case
of two of the offenders, and £1 10s. each the other two, “for go-
ing into the house of John Doane Jr. and behaving uncivilly, ran-
sacking for liquors and setting up some scandalous verses.”
In 1664, it was “agreed between Mr. Samuel Freeman and
the town, that he will pay the rate for which the town is prose-
cuted by the Court, — the town part of the expenses of govern-
ment,— one-half in money, and the other half in peas and wheat;
and, for so doing, he shall have the black horse running at large
in Pamet, said horse being the town’s property; he also to serve
as trooper for the town three years.”
In 1665, Mr. Jonathan Sparrow was engaged as schoolmaster.
It was voted that “ the sales and prices of liquors shall be gov-
erned by the court-law ; ” also, “ that all horses belonging to the
inhabitants shall be marked on the fore-shoulder with the letter
E, to distinguish them from those belonging to other towns; ”
and “ that all persons standing outside of the meeting-house
during the time of public service shall be set in the stocks.”
Gov. Prince, this year, ceased to be an inhabitant of
Eastham and returned to Plymouth; it being declared
by the Court indispensable for the administration of
public affairs that the governors reside at the seat of
government.1
1 Gov. Thomas Prince, b 1600, came over in the 2d ship, the Fortune,
Nov. 1621, then aged 22. His residence was first at PI) ;LUUUlh, then, 1335
at Dux., then, 1644, here. In the division of cattle in Plymouth, 1627, his
w. and dr. Rebecca are mentioned. His wife was Patience, dr. of the elder,
Wm. Brewster, m. Aug. 5, 1624, being, it is said, tEe ninth marriage in the
colony. There are contradictory statements in regard to subsequent matri-
monial connections; but it is generally agreed that he m. 2d, Mary, dr. of
Wm. Collier, 1635. Judge Mitchell, who has reputation for accuracy, says
“ she d. in Eastham.” It is said that he m. 3d, Mary, widow of Samuel
Freeman. It is remarkable that doubt and perplexity have continued to
attend all investigations touching this matter. Gov. P. d. “ governor of
the jurisdiction of New Plymouth, March 29, 1673, aged 73, and was bu.
in Plymouth April 8,” his wid. surviving. According to Yarmouth records,
she died December 9, 1695, and was buried at N. Dennis. The children of
Gov. P. were 1, Thomas, who m. and d. in England whilst yet a young man,364
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1666, Mr. John Freeman was elected assistant to
Gov. P. The claims of the Indians are said not to
have been fully adjusted until this year.
In 1667, the town ordered that every housekeeper shall kill,
or cause to be killed, twelve blackbirds, or three crows; a requi-
sition continued for many years, as in other towns, to which we
need not again refer.
In 1668, Francis wields the sceptre as Sachem of
Nauset, — the dignity of the office being the same as
in the early days of Aspinet; but its power and impor-
tance much diminished. A census was completed of
“ all male inhabitants between sixteen and sixty years
old, capable of bearing arms.”
In 1670, the town voted “forasmuch as it appears
to be greatly inconvenient for the minister to be trou-
bled to gather in the rates for his maintenance, and is
also an occasion of prejudicing some persons against
him and his ministry, two meet persons be appointed
to take care to gather in the maintenance and to
leaving a wid. and dr. Susannah, who d. without issue. She is mentioned in
Gov. P's will, and in 1677 is styled “of Cathaen Gate, near the Tower,
single-woman.” (It is said also that Gov. P. “ had a maiden sister Susan-
nah living at St Catharine's Gate, near London Tower.”) 2, Rebecca, who
m. Edm. Freeman Jr., of Sandwich, April 22, 1646 ; 3, Hannah, who m.
Nath'l Mayo, of E.,Feb. 13, 1649-50, and 2d, Jona. Sparrow; 4, Mercy,
who m. John Freeman of Sandwich, afterward of E., Feb. 13,164^-50;
5, Jane, b. Nov. 1, 1637, who m. Mark Snow Jan. 9,1660, she being his 2d
wife; 6, Mary, who m. John Tracy of Dux.; 7, Elizabeth, who m. Arthur
Howland Jr. of Marshfield, Dec. 9, 1667; 8, Sarah, who m. Jeremiah
Howes Jr. of Yarmouth, 1650 ; and 9, Judith, who m. Isaac Barker of Dux.
Dec. 28, 1665, and 2d, Wm. Tubbs of Pembroke, 1691. Gov. P. had many
difficulties to encounter during the time that he held the office of chief mag-
istrate, but it is generally conceded that there was much in his administra-
tion to be commended. Its fault was, in the estimation of those that
reprehend, “ the fault of the age, — the lack of a full and just toleration on
religious subjects.” His contemporaries say, “ He was a terror to evil-
doers, and he encouraged ail that did well.” The Plymouth Church records
say, “ He was excellently qualified for the office of governor. He had a
countenance full of majesty.” Gov. P.'s farm in this town was extensive,
embracing some 200 acres of the best land. The celebrated pear-tree, said
to have been brought from England and planted here with his own hand,
yielded “ about 15 bu. a year of fair and pleasant fruit '* long after becom-
ing remarkable for its longevity. What yet remains of it indicates the
spot where his house stood.ANNALS OP EASTHAM.
365
incite the people to duty in this respect.” This order
was, doubtless, suggested by a law just enacted by the
Court — of general application. Stringent enactments
were also made by the Court to correct any neglect
of a town in securing pastoral oversight; but this
year the service of Rev. Mr. Crosby terminated.1
In 1671, the town voted to contribute £6 for the
support of Harvard College, the ministers and elders
in the several towns having been requested to raise
money for the object. The town forbade all persons
cutting wood or timber to be carried abroad. Mr.
William Merrick died March 20;1 and Mr. Nicholas
Snow died Nov. 15.3
1	Rev. Thomas Crosby was probably eldest son of Simon of Camb.,
and b. 1634 in Eng.; being an infant when he was brought over. He
grad. H. C. 1653. For what cause his ministry here terminated, we are
not informed. He was in good repute in all the colony. Mr. C. was here,
however, as a “religious teacher”; not pastor. Nice distinctions pre-
vailed. His descendants have been highly respectable. He d. in Boston
June 13, 1752. By his w. Sarah, he had Thomas b. here April 7, 1663 ;
Simon July 5, 1665, who removed to H.; Sarah Mar. 24, 1667, whom.
Silas Sears jr.; Joseph Jan. 27, 1668-9, who removed to Y.; John and
another s., gem., Feb. 11, 1670-1, the latter d. inf, and the former set. in
H.; William March 1673 ; Eben’r March 28, 1675; Anne, Mercy, and
Increase, triplets, April 14 and 15, 1678, the former of whom m. Wm.
Luce of Tisbury July 5, 1704; and Eleazer Mar. 30, 1680, who set. in H.
Mr. Crosby’s wid. m. 2d, Mr. John Miller of Y. Eben’r had Thankful
1701; Mercy 1703 ; and Eben’r May 5, 1706, who m. Mehit. Baker 1733.
2	The father of the above, Ens. Wm. Merrick (the name now gener-
ally written Myrick), was prob. early in Dux.; a William of Dux. became
one of the first proprietors of Bridgewater, but soon removed. The pre-
sumption is that the Ensign was the son of that William. Be it as it may,
he had by his wife Rebecca, William Sept. 15, 1643 ; Stephen May 12,
1646; Rebecca 1648; Mary, Nov. 4, 1650, who m. Steph. Hopkins May
23, 1667; Ruth 1652; Sarah Aug. 1, 1654, who m. John Freeman, Dec.
18, 1672; John Jan. 15, 1656-7 ; Isaac Jan. 6, 1660-1; Joseph June 1,
1662; and Benj. Feb. 1, 1664-5. William, b. 1643, m. Abigail Hop-
kins, dr. of Giles, May 23, 1667, and had Rebecca Nov. 28, 1668; and
William August 1, 1670. He d. Mar. 20, 1671. Stephen, b. 1646, m.
Mercy Bangs, dr. Edward Dec. 28, 1670, and had Stephen Mar. 26, 1673.
8 Nicholas, Anthony, and William Snow are reported to have come over
early. The two former brought families; the latter was an apprentice, and
set. in Dux. Anthony was first at Plym.; then, 1642, at Marshfield; and
Nicholas, who came in the Ann 1623, and had share in the division of
land at Plym., set. here. He was one of Prince’s associates; a man of
much note, — deputy, town cl’k, selectman, etc. many years. His wife
was Constance, dr. of Stephen Hopkins, and she d. a widow, 1677. They
had a large family, of whom Mark, b. May 9, 1628, was, probably, the eldest.366
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Until 1672, the inhabitants had not felt that their
ability was adequate to the full support of a pastor;
but a call was now extended to Mr. Samuel Treat who
accepted and was ordained.
The provision made for his support was a salary of £50, “with
a sufficiency of firewood brought to his door yearly; a parcel
of meadow and upland given to the town by Manasseth Comp-
ton, Indian ; a parcel of meadow bought of John Young; three
acres of meadow called the White Meadow; an island at Bil-
lingsgate with the meadow about it; a parcel of marsh at Great-
meadows ; and twenty acres of upland at the head of the Cove,”
— all which lands were in fee simple. It was also “ stipulated
that the town will build upon this latter estate a suitable house.”
Such was the settlement, and such the salary; apparently liberal
for the times. But as there were within the limits of Mr. Treat’s
charge many Indians, he also received aid, in addition to the
town’s agreement, from the Society for the Propagation of the
Gospel among the Indians.1 2 Mr. Josias Cook d. Oct. 17, 1673.*
In 1674, the town having raised the requisite number of men,
as enjoined by order of Court, for service against the Narragan-
setts, or other Indians, £70 was appropriated by the town for the
purchase of guns and ammunition. The sum subsequently
raised for the pay of the men was £66.16.6.
In 1675, “King Philip’s War” being in progress,the
town was required to furnish eighteen men additional,
as its proportion of the three hundred ordered to be
raised by the Plymouth Colony. Eastham performed
its full share of duty in this war;3 and, though remote
1	Mr. Treat applied himself to learn the Indian language, and much of
his time was given to the benefit of this portion of his charge. It has been
said that he stands “ deservedly next to Mr. Eliot for his devotion to his
work and success in improving the condition of the natives. Never weary,
he travelled to other parts to preach to native tribes and to awaken Chris-
tian people to a sense of duty toward them.”
2	Mr. Cook was one of the founders of E. By m. with Elisa. Deane,
wid. of Stephen, Sept. 16, 1635, he had Josiah; Ann, who m. Mark Snow
Jap. 18, 1655 ; and Bethia, who m. Joseph Harding, Ap. 4, 1660.
3	Mr. John Freeman *was at this time a captain, and of the Colonial
Council of War. In a letter addressed to Gov. Winslow, he says : “ Taun-
ton, 3 d., 4 mo., 1675. This morning three of our men are slain close by
one of our courts of guard, (two of them, Samuel Atkins and JohnANNULS OF EASTHAM.
367
from the scene of action, and hitherto exempt from
the ravages perpetrated elsewhere, was not without
serious apprehension of danger.
A view of the growth of the town may be inferred
from the record of inhabitants “admitted” since the
report we gave of legal voters, 1655.
John Bangs,
Jona. Bangs Sr.,
Joshua Bangs,
Israel Cole,
Daniel Doane Sr.,
John Doane, Jr.,
Edm. Freeman,
John Freeman Jr.,
Sam’l Freeman Sr.,
Sam’l Freeman Jr.,
Thomas Freeman,
Joseph Harding,1
Benj. Higgins,
Jona. Higgins Sr.,
Jona. Higgins Jr.,
Thomas Higgins,
Joshua Hopkins,
Stephen Hopkins Sr.
Sam’l Mayo Sr.,
Wm. Merrick Jr.,
John Paine,
Thomas Paine Jr.,
Isaac Pepper,2
John Rogers,
Thomas Rogers,
Samuel Smith,
Thomas Smith,
Nicholas Snow,
Stephen Snow,
Jno. Sparrow,
William Walker.3
Knowles, of Eastham); houses are burned in our sight; our men are
picked off at every bush. The design of the enemy is not to face the
army, but to fall on us as they have advantage.” He further says: “ I
pray you send some arms to us, if you can, and some to our southern towns;
Eastham has, I think, not twenty good arms in it. I pray you give them
instruction how to manage things for their security, for they much need
help.” It was well known that emissaries of Philip had visited all the
Indian tribes on the Cape, and, although no actual demonstrations had
been made by Cape Indians, there was much anxiety felt lest they should
prove hostile.
1 We are told that “ Wid. Martha Harding d. in Plym. 1G33, and left her
young son, John, to Dea. Doane.” We know nothing more of Dea.
Doane’s ward; but Joseph Harding was made a freeman here, and m.
Bethia Cook, Ap. 4, 1660. Issue; Martha Dec. 13, 1662, who m. Samuel
Brown Feb. 19, 1683; Mary 1665; Joseph July 8, 1667 ; Josiah Aug. 15,
1669; Mezeiah Nov. 1, 1671 ; John Oct. 9, 1673, who d. June 14, 1697 ;
Nath’l Dec. 25, 1674; Joshua Feb. 15, 1675; Abiah Jan. 26, 1679; and
Sami Sept. 1, 1685. Josiah, b. 1669, had by his w. Hannah, Martha
1693; Elisa. 1696 ; Joshua Oct. 27, 1698; Bethia 1701 ; Josiah Mar. 7,
1703-4; Mary 1707 ; Jesse Mar. 26, 1709 ; Eben’r July 20, 1712; and
Bethia 1716. Mezeiah, b. 1671, had by Hannah, his w., Hannah Feb.
15, 1694; Thomas Nov. 3, 1699 ; James Nov. 2, 1702 ; Mary 1706 ; Elisa.
1708 ; Phebe 1710; Nathan Oct. 29,1711; and Cornelius Mar. 31,1716-17.
a Mr. Isaac Pepper is sup. by Mr. Savage to be s. of Robert of
Roxbury. He m. Apphia Freeman Oct. 7, 1685, and had Apphia 1687 ;
Mary 1690; Isaac July 29, 1693; Robert Feb. 15, 1695-6; Elisa. July
11, 1698; Joseph Nov. 1, 1700, d. y.; Solomon Jan. 15,1703 ; and Josepn
Feb. 24, 1704-5.
8 Mr. William Walker can^e over 1635, se. 15; was in Hing. 1636;
and was here m. to Sarah Snow Jan. 25, 1654-5. They had John Nov.
24, 1655, killed by Indians 1676 ; William Oct. 12, 1657, d. inf.; William368
niSTORT OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1676, the town raised, as its proportion for defraying the
expenses of the war, £125.8.3. Mr. Jona. Bangs was empowered
to act as agent for the town in reference to “ a misunderstanding
between this and other towns on the Cape, growing out of the
charges for the war.”
The old meeting-house having become decayed,
and being insufficient to accommodate the increased
number of inhabitants, it was “ voted to build a new
house near the burial place ; ” for this purpose £153.8
was appropriated, and Dea. Samuel Freeman, Lt. Spar-
row, Thomas Paine, and John Doane were appointed
a building committee. The population this year was
520.
In 1677, additional lawshaving been enacted “for
securing in every town suitable maintenance of public
worship; ” and
In 1678, an Act being passed “ still further to pro-
mote ” the same, requiring that “ there be a place for
public worship provided, and repaired or enlarged as
occasion may exist, and that if there be any neglect
it shall be done by the government, and the delin-
quent towns assessed for the expense ; ” it was here
determined that “the inhabitants of Monamoyick
ought to pay their proportional part both of the
expense of building and of Mr. Treat’s salary.”1
Lands were this year “ divided to both old and new
Aug. 2, 1659; Sarah 1662; Elisa. 1664; and Jabez July 8, 1668. Ja-
bez, by his w. Elisa., had Richard June 1, 1695 ; Rejoice May 13, 1697;
Mary 1699; Jeremiah May 17, 1702; Mercy 1704; Jabez; Sarah; and
Patience.
1 Monamoyick was not within the bounds of Eastham; but as the inhabi-
tants of the former place enjoyed the privilege of attending here, in the
absence of any legal provisions for the ministry in their own settlement, it
was considered reasonable that they assist in sustaining religious institutions
here. This led to a movement on the part of Monamoyick for more
enlarged privileges. It may here be remarked that Eastham being the
only township below Yarm., Mr. Treat was in the habit of performing paro-
chial duties both in Monamoyick and within the bounds of Truro. Indeed,
he seems to have considered the whole Cape below Yarmouth as his charge.ANNALS OP EASTHAM.
369
comers ” ; and provision was made for continuing the
school. Mr. Edward Bangs 1 died this year; also, April
13, Mr. James Rogers;1 2 and, this same year, Mr.
Joseph Rogers.
In 1679, “Select Courts” being established by law,
Capt. Jona. Sparrow, Mr. Mark Snow, and Mr. John
Doane were commissioned to hold them in this town.
In 1680, complaints being made that Indians were doing much
damage to the town’s commons by cutting pine-knots to make
tar, and thus injuring the timber-trees, measures were taken to
prevent the like trespass in the future.
In 1681, it was “ ordered that the ranks of the military com-
pany shall be filled by all such of the inhabitants as are compe-
tent to bear arras, each soldier to be furnished with a sword or
cutlass as well as a gun; ” and that each Sunday one part of the
company go armed to public worship. It was also ordered that
a committee, chosen for the purpose, divide, among the freemen
of the town, the money to be received as this town’s proportion
of the sales of Mount Hope. The deputy from the town was
instructed to apply for the money.
In 1682, Indian constables were appointed for the Indians; and,
in 1683, an overseer, agreeably to the late provision of Court,
to determine controversies that may arise among them. The In-
dians were also required to pay taxes; also to assemble when
called, once a year, to hear the criminal laws read and explained.
In 1684, the second instalment of the proceeds of Mt. Hope
was subject of order. A census taken reported 101 freemen, or
legal voters. The entire population was 900.
In 1685, according to the testimony of Gov. Hinckley, there
were 500 adult Indians within the limits of Mr. Treat’s parochial
1	See Yol. I. 639, where we have already given a genealogical sketch of
the family. Whilst resident at Plymouth, fourscore acres were granted him,
“ on condition that he contribute ^th part toward building a barque of 40
or 50 tons.” He was largely engaged in merchandise. See also Annals of
Brewster.
2	Mr. James Rogers was s. of Lt. Joseph, who also d. this year. He m.
Mary Paine Jan. 11, 1670-1, and had James Oct. 30, 1673; Mary 1675;
and Abigail, 1678. John, s. of Lt. Joseph b. 1642, m. Elisa. Twining,
dr. Wm., Aug. 19, 1669, and had Samuel Nov. 1, 1671, d. inf.; John Nov.
4, 1672; Judah Nov. 23, 1677; Joseph Feb. 22, 1679; Elisa. 1682; Elea-
zer May 19, 168 ; Mehit. 1687; Hannah 1689; and Nathaniel Oct. 3,
1693.
VOL. II.
47310	HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
‘charge.1 It was voted to “pay £10 for the head of any old
wolf, and £5 for wolves’'whelps, to any Indians who shall kiH
them.” The next year the bounty was doubled, the ravages of
wolves among the herds having become a serious grievance.
This year, Barnstable County established, the town
was required to send grand-jurors to the Be. Court.2
The year 1686 brought some excitement by reason
of the accession of Andros to power. Dea. John
Doane d. Feb. 21, aged 95,3 and Mr. Rt. Wixam d. in
the month of October.4 Mr. Wtlliam Freeman d. 1687;5
and Ens. Vm. Merrick d. in 1688.
In 1689, Mr. Jona. Sparrow was commissioned as
one of the justices of the Associate Court, restored
upon the abdication of Andros.
In 1690, the war with the Indians and French in Canada
making it necessary that all towns within the governments of
Plymouth, Mass., and Connecticut colonies furnish proportionate
1 Gov. H., in cor. with the Society in Eng., says, Mr. Treat had, under him,
at this time, four Indian teachers who read, on Sundays, to separate villa-
ges, sermons written by himself. Eveiy fourth Sunday, Mr. Treat himself
preached to them collectively. The Indian teachers also acted as school-
masters. It is said to have been “ a favorite object with Mr. T. to en-
courage the Indians to choose magistrates for themselves, and to order their
affairs wisely.”
a As facilities for litigation were increased, so the business of the courts
multiplied. Besides the indictments mentioned pp. 310-11 of former vol.,
an inhabitant was indicted, fined 5s., and set in the stocks, “ for cursing and
swearing,” and 5s. and stocks two hours, “ for drunkenness.”
8 Dea. Doane, in Plymouth 1630, the associate of Gov. Prince, Assistant
1633,—but not after, he “declining civil office after being chosen dea.,”—
was one of the founders of E. He had, by his wife Abigail, children : Abi-
fail Jan. 13, 1632, who at the age of 60 became the 2d wife of Samuel
iOthrop and outlived him many years. A century sermon was preached in
her room in 1732 by Rev. Joseph Lord. She d. Jan. 23, 1735; John,
Daniel, Ephraim, and Lydia who m. Samuel Hicks. Dea. D. had a very
large farm in this town, JN. of the harbor, and, it is said, the remains of the
cellar, near the water, now indicate the location of his house.
4 Mr. Wixam (sometimes written Wickson, -and sometimes Vixon), had
Jemima 1655 ; Titus Dec. 2, 1657 ; Elisa. 1660; and Barnabas, who, by
Sarah, had Barnabas Sept. 15,1693; Joshua March 14,1695; Lydia 1697;
Robert May 29, 1698 ; and Prince Dec. 2, 1700.
B Mr. Wm. Freeman, b. 1663, s. of Maj. John, had by his w. Lydia 2
children: Lydia, who m. Rd. Godfrey 17(11; and Wm. Feb. 24, 1686, who
m. Mercy Pepper 1711. The above Wm. is the great-great-grandfather of
the present Solomon freeman Esq. of Brewster.ANNALS OF EASTHAM.	37jl
parts of the means of carrying on the war, this town raised its
quota of money, £'187 19s.; and the military was organized: Jona.
Sparrow,captain; Joseph Snow,lieutenant; and Jona. Bangs, en-
sign. Subsequently, the war requiring additional aid, this town
was further assessed in the sum of £46.
Pursuant to order of Court, the town assembled to
express their views in regard to a new patent from
the crown. Although the people may have preferred
that the old colony government be continued as from
the first, the vote was unanimous that such patent be
sought, and that this town pay its proportion of the
expense of obtaining it. Lt. Jabez Snow d. Dec. 27.1
In 1691, the town provided for the new levy for
paying expenses of the war, as was ordered by the
Court sitting for the last time at Plymouth. It also
mortgaged to Mr. John Freeman two islands at Bil-
lingsgate to indemnify for advancing <£76, the town’s
proportion of expenses attending the application for
the new Charter. Such were the necessities of the
times at this period that a watch was ordered, to con-
sist, each night, of as many persons as the selectmen
shall think proper. Mr. John Young d. Jan. 29 ;2 Mr.
Benjamin Higgins d. March 14;3 and Mr. Samuel Brown
d. Dec. B.4
1	Lieut. Snow, a prominent townsman, had, by his w. Elisa., Jabez Sept.
6, 1670 ; Edward March 26, 1672 ; Sarah Feb. 26,1673-4 ; Grace Feb. 1,
1675-6 ; and Thomas who d. 1697.
2	Mr. John Young was here early. He m. in Plymouth Dec. 13,1648;
and, by his w. Abigail, had John Nov. 16, 1649 ; Joseph Nov. 12,1651, d.
inf.; Joseph Dec. 1654; Nathaniel Ap. 1656; Mary 1658; Abigail 1660;
David Ap. 17, 1662; Lydia 1664; Robert 1667 ; Henry 1669, d. inf.; and
Henry March 17, 1672.
a Mr. Higgins, b. 1640, was s. of Richard 1st. Richard Higgins, in
Plymouth 1633, to E. 1644, was of Celtic origin. The name is early found
written Higginson. He was deputy several years. He m. Lydja Chandler
Nov. 23,1634, and 2d, Mary Yates of Plymouth, Oct. 1651. Issue : Jona.
1637; Benj. 1640; Mary 1652; Eliakim Oct. 20,1654; Wm. Dec. 15,
1655; Judah March 5,1657 ; Zervia 1658; Thomas 1661; and Lydia 1664.
Benjamin, b. 1640, m. Lydia Bangs, dr. Edward, Dec. 24,1661, and had
Ichabod Nov. 14, 1662; Richard Oct 15,1664; John Nov. 20,1666; Josh.
Oct. 1, 1668; Lydia 1A<70; Isaac Aug. 31, 1672; Benj. June 14, 1674, d
inf.; Samuel Mar. 7, 167o-7; and Benj. Sept. 15, 1681.
4 Mr. Brown was s. of Wm., who m. Mary Murdock July 16, 1649, at372
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1692, pursuant to a warrant from Sir ¥m. Phips,
the town chose representatives to the General Court
to be held on the 8th of June in Boston. Mr. Samuel
Smith Jr. died Sept. 22d.*
In 1693, for the expenses of war, £13 11s. was appropriated,
and £6 5s. for ammunition. This year we obtain another view
of the Indians, and of Mr. Treat’s labors among them.2
Plymouth, and died here about 1694. Issue: Mary 1650; Geo. 1652 ; Wm.
1654; Samuel 1656 ; John; James; and Mercy. Sam’l, b. 1656, m. Martha
Harding Feb. 19, 1682-3, and had Bethia 1684, d. inf.; Bethia 1685;
Martha 1688; and Samuel Nov. 7, 1690. John had Sarah 1690; John
1692 ; Hannah 1694 ; Zebulon 1696 ; David 1699; and Mary 1701. Wm.
m. Susanna Harding Oct. 27, 1699, and had Susanna 1700, and Jediah
1702. James, by w. Deborah, had Martha 1694; James 1696; Deborah
1699 ; Jediah 1701; and Thomas 1703.
1 Mr. S. was s. of Mr. Sam’l Smith Sr., who m. Mary Hopkins Jan. 3,
1664-5, and d. March 22, 1697, aged 55. He had Samuel May 26,1668;
Mary 1669; Joseph April 10, 1671; John May 26, 1673 ; Grace 1676 ; and
Rebecca 1678. Samuel, b. 1668, m. Bashua Lothrop, probably dr. of
Barnabas, May 26, 1690, and had Samuel Feb. 13, 1690-1, and Joseph
Oct. 9, 1692, posthumous. Thewid. mT*2d Samael Freeman. The origin
of the name here is involved in some doubt. Mr. Savage supposes that
Ralph Smith, from Hing. county of Norf. Eng. who came over 1633, and
was in Hing. 1635, went to Eastham. It is certain that a Ralph Smith
was early here, and wife Deborah 1654. There was also a John, and Mr.
Savage supposes he was the “ Sr.” of Plymouth 1643. According to the
E. rec. John m. Hannah Williams May 24, 1667, and had Elizabeth and
Sarah. Again, John Sr. of E. lost his wife Lydia July 21, 1672, and m.
Jael Packard of Bridg. Nov. 1672. A John m. Mary Eldridge Nov. 30,
1688, and had John, Jeremiah, William, and others. Thomas, who, Mr.
Savage says, was, “perhaps, son of Ralph,” had by Mary, his wife, Ralph
Oct. 23, 1682 ; Rebecca March 31, 1685 ; Thomas Jan. 29,1687-8; David
1691; Jona. July 5, 1693; Isaac June 3, 1695, d. aged 9, and Jesse June
31, 1703-4. Dan’l, who, Mr. Savage says, was perhaps s. of 1st John m.
Mary Young, dr. John, March 3, 1676-7, and had Daniel Jan. 8, 1678-9;
Content 1680; Abigail 1683; James 1685; Nathaniel 1687; and Mary
1693. John, “s. of John 3d,” says Mr. Savage, had, by his wife Sarah, a
large family, the sons of which were Joseph 1697; William 1702; Seth
1706 ; and John 1713. John, son of Samuel 1st, b. 1673, m. Bethia Snow,
dr. Stephen, May 14, 1694, and had James 1695 ; and Sam’l May 25,1696.
Jeremiah m. Hannah Atwood Jan. 3, 1677, and had Jeremiah 1685 ; and
3 drs. Samuel m. Abigail Freeman Oct. 9, 1712, and had Mary 1713;
Zoeth 1716; Abigail 1718; Martha 1721; Bashua 1723 ; Grace 1725; Su-
sanna 1727 ; Samuel 1730; and Joseph 1741.
* Mr. Treat writes to Rev. Increase Mather, “ I have from time to time
imparted the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ to these Indians in their own
language, and, I truly hope, not without success. I continue in the same
service, earnestly imploring a more plentiful outpouring of the Spirit upon
them. . . . They have four distinct assemblies in as many villages belong-
ing to our township; with four teachers of their own choice, who repair'
once a week to my house to be themselves further instructed, pro modulo
meo, in the concl mments proper for their service and station. . . . ThereANNALS OF EASTHAM.
373
In 1694, the incorporation of Harwich indicates the
progress that had been made in the settlement of the
territory lying between this town and Yarmouth. Mr.
Stephen Atwood d. in the month of February,1 and Mr.
Daniel Cole d. Dec. 21, aged 80.2
In 1695, Mr. Mark Snow d.3 The town voted to build
a steeple upon its meeting-house, and to procure a
are besides four schoolmasters, who teach their youth to read and write in
their own language. They have six magistrates, and three stated courts.”
The villages to which Mr. T. refers were u Potanumaquut, where Thomas
Coshannag was the preacher and teacher; Meeshawn and Punonakanet,
where Samuel Munsha was preacher; Monamoyick, with John Cosens for
preacher; and Sakatucket, the preacher being Manasseth.” Mr. Treat
translated and caused to be printed in the Nauset tongue, ‘ the Confession
of Faith.’ That he might be an instrument of good to the Indians, he
aimed to gain their affections, visited them often in their wigwams, asso-
ciated with them in all kindness and affability, and joined in their festivals.
In return, the natives regarded him as their friend, venerated him as their
religious teacher; and loved him as their father. But he could not save
them from wasting away l Here, as elsewhere, generally, from the mo-
ment when brought into contiguity with the English, and especially after
they had surrendered their lands, they wilted and died 1
1 Mr. Stephen Atwood m. Abigail Dunham, dr. of John, Nov. 6,1644,
and had John ; Hannah Oct. 14, 1649 ; Eldad; and Medad. Eldad m.
Anna Snow Feb. 14,1683, and had Mary 1684; John Aug. 10,1686; Anne
1688; Deborah 1690; Sarah 1692; Eldad July 9,1695; Ebenezer 1698;
and Benj. 1701. Medad, by his w. Esther, had Mercy 1686 ; Abigail 1689;
David, Oct. 20, 1691; Sam’l March 20, 1695 ; Esther 1699 ; Phebe 1702 ;
and Nathan June 27, 1705.
a There were several of the name of Cole who came over early. Isaac,
of Sandwich, Eng., embarked on the Hercules 1634-5 with Joan, his wife,
and 2 children. George came from Lynn to Sandwich 1637, but d. 1653;
the inventory being made at the former place Mr. Savage supposes indicates
that he had returned. Henry was liable to bear arms in Sandwich in 1643,
and Mr. S. thinks went to Ct. Job was in Dux. early, and then in Y., and
finally in E. He is said to have m. Rebecca Collier, dr. Wm., May 15,
1634, who d. a wid. Dec. 29,1698, aged 88; and to have had sons, Jno., Job,
and Daniel, and his dr. Rebecca was b. here Aug. 26,1654. James Jr. is
reported by the O. C. Rec. to have m. Mary Tilson Dec. 23,1652. Dan’l,
said to be bro. of Job, came here from Y., and was town clerk 1652-5,
deputy 1652 and afterwards 6 years. His w. Ruth died Dec. 15,1694, aged
67, perhaps a 2d w. His ch. were John July 15, 1744; Timothy Sept. 15,
1646 ; Hepzibah Ap. 15, 1651, who m. John Young; Israel June 8,1653;
James Nov. 30, 1655 ; Mary March 10, 1658, who m. Joshua Hopkins
May 26, 1681, and Wm. Sept. 15, 1663.
8 Mr. Mark Snow, b. 1628, was a man of large influence and usefulness;
a deputy, also selectman, and clerk many years. He m. Anne Cook, dr. of
Josiah, Jan. 18,1654-5, and 2d, Jane Prince, dr. of Gov. P., Jan. 9,1660-1.
Issue: Anne 1656 ; Mary 1661; Nicholas Dec. 6, 1663 ; Elizabeth 1666, d.
1675; Thomas Aug. 6, 1668; Sarah 1671; Prince May 22, 1674; Elisa.
1676; and Hannah 1679.374
HISTOR* OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
bell.1 In order to make the rule more imperative that
* every single man in the township shall kill 6 black-
birds or 3 crows, each year,” it was now ordered that
Aone “ such shall be married until they comply with
the requisition” Mr. John Doane Jr. was app. “to
procure the erection of a whipping-post and stocks for
the town’s use.” The whole list of legal inhabitants,
as reported this year,was as follows:—
Henry Atkins Sr.,
Henry Atkins Jr.,
Joseph Atkins,
Kath’l Atkins,
Daniel Atwood,
Eldad Atwood,
Stephen Atwood Sr.
Stephen Atwood Jr.
Jtohn Bangs,
Jon a. Bangs,
Joshua Bangs,
Thos. Bills,
Geo. Brown,
Sam’l Brown Sr.,
Sam’l Brown Jr.,
ffm. Brown,
Josiah Cook,
Josiah Cook Jr.,
Daniel Cole Sr.,
Daniel Cole Jr.,
Israel Cole,
John Cole Sr.,
John Cole Jr.,
Samuel Cole,
Thos. Cole,
Tim. Cole,
Joseph Collins,*
Thos. Crosby,
Daniel Doane,
Eph’m Doane,
Isaac Doane,
Israel Doane,
John Doane Sr.,
John Doane Jr.,
Joseph Doane,
Const. Freeman,
Edm. Freeman,
Jno. Freeman Jr.,
FTath’l Freeman,
Sam’l Freeman Jr.,
Steph. Freeman,
Thos. Freeman,
Win. Freeman,
Joseph Harding,
Josiah Harding,
Meziah Harding,
Benj. Higgins,
Ich’d. Higgins,
John Higgins,
Jon a. Higgins Sr.,
Jona. Higgins Jr.,
Joseph Higgins,
Josh. Hopkins Sr.,
Josh. Hopkins Jr.,
Steph. Hopkins,
Sam’l Knowles, -
Jona. Linnel,
Daniel Mayo,
James Mayo,
John Mayo,
Nat’l Mayo,
Sam’l Mayo Sr.,
Sam’l Mayo Jr.,
Thos. Mayo,
Jos. Merrick,
Steph. Merrick,
. 1 Mr. Pratt has said, “ this was the first meeting-house bell used upon
the Cape, and the last in Eastham.”
2Mr. Collins was prob. s. of Henry, “starch-maker,” who em-
barked June 17, 1635, ae. 29, with wife Anne, ae. 30, with the children,
Viz.: Henry, Joseph, and Margery, ae. respectively 5, 3, and 2. They were
from Ireland. The father settled in Lynn; was a member of the Salem
Court 1639, and d. Feb. 20, 1687, ae. 81. Joseph of E. m. Duty Knowles
Mar. 20, 1671-2, and had Sarah 1673 ; John Dec. 18, 1674, who m. Han-
nah Doane, and had Solomon, Samuel, John, Joseph, and David; Lydia
1676 ; Joseph 1678, who m. Rebecca Sparrow; Hannah 1680; Jona. Aug.
20, 1682, who m. Elisa. Vickery; Ja e 1684; Benj. Feb. 6, 1687; and
James Mar. 10, 1689, d. ii f.ANNALS 0E EASTRAVL
375
Thos. Merrick,
Jno. Mulford Sr.,
Jno. Mulford Jr.,
Thos. Mulford,1 2
Elisha Paine,
John Paine,
Joseph Paine,
Nicholas Paine,
Sam’l Paine,
Thos. Paine Sr.,
Thos. Paine Jr.,
Abraham Remick,*
Joseph Rich,3
Jas. Rogers,
Jeremiah Smith,
Ralf Smith Sr.,
Ralf Smith Jr.,
Sam’l Smith Sr.,
Sam’l Smith Jr.,
Thos. Smith,
Benj. Snow,
Jabez Snow,
John Snow,
Joseph Snow Sr.,
Joseph Snow Jr.,
Mark Snow,
Micaiah Snow,
Nich’s Snow,
Steph. Snow,
Jno. Sparrow,
Jona. Sparrow Sr.,
Jona. Sparrow Jr.,
Richard Sparrow,
Mr. Sunderland,
Mr. Treat,
Win. Twining Sr.,,
Wm. Twining Jr.,
Jabez Walker,
Wm. Walker Sr.*
Win. Walker Jr.,
Barn’s Waxam,
Rob’t Waxam,
Titus Waxam,
Thos. Williams,
Jno. Young,
Joseph Young,
Nathaniel Young,
Robt. Young.
The preceding, although a numerous list of inhabi-
tants, does not embrace all who were men of adult
years, nor yet all who were heads of families. Num-
bers, long resident here, had not claimed the right of
franchise; among whom we notice the names of
Newcomb,4 Godfrey,5 Grey,6 Hurd,7 &c.
1	Mr. Thos. Mulford had by his wife Hannah, who d. a wid. Feb. 10,
1717-18, John 1670; Patience 1674; Anne 1677. He had also Thomas,
who was prob. oldest of all. Thomas Jr. m. Mary Bassett Oct. 28, 1690,
and had Anna 1691; Dorcas 1693; Mary 1695; Hannah 1698; Elizabeth
1701; Thos. Oct. 20, 1703; and Jemima 1706.
2	Mr. Abraham Remick, and his w. Elizabeth, had Christian Dec. 16,
1694; Abraham May 20, 1696; Mercy 1698; and Elizabeth 1700.
Christian m. Hannah Freeman Oct. 10,1717, and had Mercy 1718;
Hannah 1721; Elizabeth 1723; Christian April 8, 1726; Daniel July 11,
1729; Isaac Feb. 9, 1732-3; Joseph Mar. 21, 1738-9, d. inf.; Sarah 1742;
and Joseph June 8, 1744. Christian, b. 1726, m. Sarah Freeman of H.
Aug. 27, 1752.
8 Mr. Richard Rich Sr., mariner, came here from Dover N. H.; was
admitted as a freeman Aug. 23, 1681; and d. 1692. Joseph was prob.
his son; as was also Richard Jr., who by his w. Anne had Sarah 1696;
Richard Feb. 28, 1698-9; Rebecca 1701; Zaccheus April 2, 1704;
Obadiali July 15, 1707; Priscilla 1710, d. 1716; Huldah 1712; Joseph
Oct. 5, 1715; and Sylvanus Sept. 4, 1720.
4 Mr. Thomas Newcomb m. Elizabeth Cook, dr. Josiah, Oct. 1693, and
had Edward Aug. 3, 1695; Thos. Aug. 13, 1697; Simon Nov. 80, 1699.
6	Mr. Geo. Godfrey’s children ret orded as born here are Geo. Jan. 2,
1662; Samuel Jan. 27, 1664; Moses Jan. 27, 1667; Hannah 1669; Mary
1672; Ruth 1675; Richard June 11, 1677 ; Jonathan June 24, 1682; and
Elizabeth 1688.
8 This name appears early in Yarmouth; but here is the record of the
birth of Benoni Mar. 15, 1680-1, son of Edward. After this are families
of the name in Harwich.
7	Mr. John IIurd, sometimes written Heard, was here from, it is said,376
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1696, the town “ordered that hereafter when
any common’s-lands are given or sold by vote of the
town,” the act, to be valid, “ shall be subjected to the
negative of men chosen for that purpose, and shall be
laid out and bounded only on their approval.” This
veto power given to “ the negative men ” was judged
expedient to prevent the effects of hasty and incon-
siderate acts by majorities possibly obtained through
sinister effort. The Court of Quarterly Sessions hav-
ing issued a precept requiring the selectmen to assess
£19.5 toward defraying the expense of a bridge near
Plymouth, this town, regarding the demand as both
unjust and unlawful, — the bridge being twelve miles
beyond the county line, — refused compliance, and
instructed the selectmen to that effect; promising to
indemnify them for any damage that might accrue
from disregarding the order of Court.
In 1767, purchases were made by inhabitants of
this town, in anticipation of the settlement and growth
of a plantation at Pamet. This end was prominently
in view during several succeeding years. Mr. Samuel
Smith d. Mar. 22, ae. 55.
“ the Highlands of Scotland,” and his children born here were John Jan.
17, 1688-9 ; Grace Jan. 11, 1692-3; and Jacob April 12,1695. John, b.
1689, is reported in the H. Ree. as having by his w. Hannah, Sarah 1711;
Rebecca 1713; Joseph Feb. 5, 1716-17; Deborah 1719; Benj. July 18,
1721; John Nov. 22, 1723; and Hannah 1730. Jacob, b. 1695, is also
there on record as having by his w. Rebecca, Jacob Dec. 17, 1720; then
removing to Connecticut, they had other children, and he d. aged, “ a man
of large stature and great strength,” and “ his w. d., ae. 103.” Jacob, b.
in H. 1720, is reported “ the second man who followed the coasting business
on the Ct. River.” He d., as. 91, leaving numerous descendants. We have
before us an able and interesting discourse preached on occasion of the
decease of one of his nine children,—Mrs. Rebecca Bowers 1855, as. 100,—
so interesting and well-written that we regret it must suffer at our hand, in
its proemial part at least. The traditional data derived probably from the
family, are inaccurate in their beginning; and, therefore, the exordium of the
learned preacher, beautifully expressed, — describing the patriarch “ pil-
grim from the land of John Knox and the Covenanters,”—is historically at
fault. Both patriarch and son were b. on Cape Cod, and their progenitor
was settled iu Eastham.ANNALS OF EASTHAM.
377
In 1700, great inconvenience resulting from a scar-
city of money, the town petitioned the General Court
to abate the town’s taxes for general purposes; and
the application, it seems, was not considered unreason-
able: the prayer of the memorialists was granted.
The town also asked to be relieved from the necessity
of providing so many recruits for public service. It
was voted to continue the town school, and to pay the
teacher 10(7. per week for each pupil attending; also,
that the North part of the town have a school-district
“ if they will pay the teacher to learn their children
to read the English Bible.”1 It was, moreover, ordered
that the meeting-house be repaired and enlarged;
£180 was appropriated for the purpose. The enlarge-
ment, by fifteen feet, made it square and sufficiently
commodious.
In 1703, the population was 948. This and the fol-
lowing year, a further division of lands was made by
agreement of the proprietors. Mr. John Sunderland d.
Dec. 26,1703, aged 85.2 *
In 1705, Pamet, bordering on the lower part of this
township, received a quasi incorporation. The name
given in the act, however, was not euphonical, and a
few years after was changed, the “ district” receiving
full ine. as the Town of Truro.
The following appears on the record this year, and is charac-
teristic of the times: “ In town-meeting, voted that 4 Whereas
there is much disorder and inconvenience in the town of East-
1 This, doubtless, had reference to the native Indians.
*Mr. Sunderland and his wife Dorothy had John 1640; Mary 1642,
whom. Jona. Rainsford; Hannah 1644; James 1647, d. inf.; James 1648;
Benj. 1652. His w. d. Jan. 29, 1664, and he m. 2d, Thomasin, widow of
Samuel Mayo and dr. of Wm. Lumpkin, and had Mercy 1665, and Sami
1668. Mr. Sunderland was much employed as a school-teacher, and was
held in high respect. His will, Sept. 27, 1700, pr. Ap. 4, 1704, provides
for his widow and her three daughters, Mary Bangs, Sarah Freeman, and
Mercy Sears.
VOL. II.
48m
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
ham, in not attending town-meetings; also by persons disorderly
and tumultuously speaking in said meetings; also by disorderly
departing without leave: It is, therefore, ordered that whenever
there shall be a town-meeting duly warned, every person
qualified to vote in said meeting and living within seven miles
of the meeting-house, who shall not attend at the time appoint-
ed, or by the time the meeting is ealled to order, or shall depart
before the meeting closes without leave of the moderator ; or
shall speak without liberty; shall be fined 6d. for every such de-
fault.’ ” This proceeding was submitted, as law required, to the
Ct. of Quar. Sessions at Barnstable for approbation, and was
“ allowed.”
The town gr. permission to Nicholas Paine “to build a wind-
mill on the hill near his house.” A com., app. to settle the bounds
between this town and the town of Harwich, reported that an
agreement had been made with the town and proprietors of
Harwich “that the jurisdiction of Eastham shall remain as
formerly; but that all lands lying between the bounds of said
towns1 shall forever be improved in common by the said two
towns, — in consideration of which the town of Eastham shall
annually pay to the proprietors of Harwich, £2 10s.”
The French and Indian war was onerous, because of
its exactions. In 1706, Mr. John Mayo died;2 also,
Mr. Henry Young, April 26 ;3 and Mr. Thomas Paine.4
1	The lands thus intervening, it is understood, were those on which the
Potanumaquut Indians resided, a moiety of which subsequently pertained
to the domain of Eastham.
2	Mr. John Mayo was s. of Rev. John. He m. Hannah Reycroft, or
Lecroft, Jan. 1, 1650-1, and had John Dec. 15, 1652; Wm. Oct. 7, 1654;
James Oct. 3, 1656; Sami Aug. 2, 1658; Elisha Nov. 7, 1661, who d.
1701; Daniel June 24, 1664 ; Nath’l Ap. 2, 1667, and Thos. July 15,1672.
8 Mr. Young, b. 1672, s. of John 1st, by w. Sarah had Martha 1695;
Elisa. 1698; Reliance 1700; Moses Nov. 15, 1702 ; and Thomas Oct. 24,
1705, who m. Rebecca Bangs. His elder bro. John m. Ruth Cole, dr Dan’l.
Another brother, Joseph, m. Sarah Lewis, or Davis, and had Samuel 1680;
Joseph and Isaac, gem., 1682; and James 1685. Another, Nath’l, m.
Mercy Davis, who m. 2d, Nath’l Mayo 1708. Another, David, m. Anne
Doane, dr. John, Jan. 20 1687-8, and had 8 drs. and sons; John March 20,
1695 ; David Sept. 25, 1701; and Henry March 23, 1711. Another, Rob-
ert, m. Joanna Ilix March 22, 1694, and had Rob’t Dec. 11, 1696, and
daughters.
4 See Yol. I 635; also, Annals of Harwich and Truro. Mr. Drake
found by examination of the admiralty records, among those “ to be trans-
planted to New England, Ap. 1637, were Thomas Paine of Wrentom, in
SulTolcke, weaver, aged 50 ; Elizabeth, his wife, aged 53, and six children,
viz., Thomas, John, Mary, Elizabeth, Dorothy, and Sarah.” Mr. SavageANNALS OP EASTHAM.
379
Mr. John Doane, a prominent and influential citizen,
died March 15, 1708.1
In 1709, the town having been presented for not
having a schoolmaster, John Doane Esq. was appoint-
ed to appear in the town’s behalf and answer to the
complaint; at the same time, the selectmen were in-
structed to take especial care to obtain a teacher.2 Mr.
Nathaniel Mato died Nov. 30.3
In 1710, lands were laid out “for the ministry, at
Pochet and Billingsgate, — if any ministers be settled
at those places; with 10 acres of woodland for each,
to be for the benefit of the ministry in those places re-
spectively forever.” The town voted at the same time, to
“ add £20 to the salary of Mr. Treat,—making his entire
salary equal to £70, silver money.” This seems to
have , /een a period when the people were disposed to
devise liberal things ; for, the year following, 4 acres
of land was voted to each and every widow in town.4
Lt. Joshua Bangs died Jan. 14.
In 1712, an agent was app. “ to meet the agent of
the town of Harwich,” “ to determine and settle a line
has it, “they came over 1637 in the Mary Ann of Yarmouth,” and that
the father was “ son of Thomas and Catharine of Cooklie, near Halesworth,
Co. of Suffolk,” and gives the issue of Thomas, who was b. Dec. 11,1586,
and m. to his w. Elizabeth Nov. 22, 1610, as Mary October 12, 1611;
Thomas Jan. 18,1613 ; Elisa. Jan. 20, 1615 ; Peter March 14,1617,d.inf.;
Dorothy Dec. 6, 1618 ; John Aug. 26,1620 ; Sarah Mar. 7, 1622; and Na-
thaniel July 21, 1626, d. inf.
1	Mr. Doane, s. of Dea. John, m. Hannah Bangs, dr. of Edward, April
30,1662, and had John 1663, d. inf.; John May 29,1664; Anna 1666; Re-
becca 1668; Isaac June 2, 1670; and Samuel March 2, 1673.
2	The absence of the schoolmaster was evidently not the result of indif-
ference to the importance of common schools. It was often difficult to ob-
tain a suitable teacher. Probably, however, had the compensation been as
liberal as in later times, the number of those giving themselves to the occu-
pation would have been adequately increased.
* Mr. Nathaniel Mayo b. 1652, was s. of Nath’l. He m. Elisa.
Wixam June 28, 1678, and 2d, Mercy Youug, wid. of Nath’l, June 10,
1708. He had Nathaniel 1681; Bathsheba 1683; Alice 1686; Ebenezer
1689; Hannah 16 92; Elisha 1695; and Rob’t 1698.
4 A state of widowhood is that into which large numbers in these maritime
towns have been early introduced by the dangers of the seas.380
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
between the two towns, running through the tract of
land formerly reserved for the Indians.” Dea. Sam’l
Freeman d. Jan. 30;1 Mr. Joseph Paine d. Oct. 6; and
Mr. Samuel Paine d. Oct. 13. In 1713, notwithstand-
ing the diminished resources of the country by reason
of protracted war, this town provided for repairs of
the meeting-house; also divided the town into two
school districts, the Cove to be the dividing line ; and
engaged Mr. Peter Barnes as teacher.2
The next year, 1714, Mr. Nehemiah Hobart was en-
gaged as teacher; * and, in addition to his salary as
schoolmaster, the town engaged to pay him £10 “ to
assist Rev. Mr. Treat, —preaching as occasion may re-
quire, the pastor being much disabled by sickness.”
The Indians living on the lands until recently known
as ‘ the reservation,’ between the bounds of Harwich
and Eastham, entered a complaint against the town
for trespass; and an order of notice being served upon
the selectmen, Mr. John Paine was app. to appear at
Court in the town’s behalf and answer to the action.
In 1715, regulations were made to prevent cattle
and horses running at large upon the town’s commons.
1	M^ Samuel Freeman was in Watertown 1630. His house was
burned 1631, and returning to England on business he died there, soon
after the birth of his son, the above Samuel, May 11, 1638. He owned
one-sixth part of the township of Watertown. Tradition, very uncer-
tain, tells that he was the eldest of 11 sons, and Edmund of Sandwich is
supposed to have been one of them. Henry of Watertown, is represented ass
eldest s. of Samuel, inheriting the paternal estate. He m. Hannah Stearns
Dec. 25, 1650, who was buried June 17, 1656, and 2d, Mary Shearman
Nov. 27, 16561 He d. Nov. 12, 1672, and his s. James, whose w. Rachel
m. 2d, Rd. Shute, had one only g. Samuel, who d. 1728 unmarried. Dea.
Sam’l, b. 1638, removed to Eastham. He m. Mary Southwortli, dr. of Con-
stant, May 12, 1658. Issue : Apphia Dec. 11, 1659, d. inf.; Samuel Mar.
26, 1662; Apphia Jan. 1, 1666, who m. Isaac Pepper Oct. 7, 1685; Con-
stant March 31, 1669; Elisa. June 26, 1671, who m. Remick, and 2d, Mer-
rick ; and perhaps others.
2	Mr. Barnes grad. H. C. 1712.
8 Mr. Hobar, grad. H. C. 1714, and is prob. the same set. in the ministry
at Cohasset 1 '21.ANNALS OF EASTHAM.
381
Del ., Thomas Freeman d. Feb. 9,1716;1 Mr. Nathaniel
Mayo also d. this year.2
In 1717, the Rev. Samuel Treat died greatly lament-
ed, after an active ministry of forty-five years.3 An en-
gagement was, thereupon, made with Mr. Hobart to
perform religious services until a minister could be
provided, and Joseph Doane Esq. was sent abroad
to procure a candidate. Mr. Lord was obtained, but
preached only a few Sundays; he afterwards settled
at Chatham.
Of the ability, piety, and faithfulness of the late
pastor, his contemporaries and parishioners bear hon-
orable testimony. Tradition represents him as “cheer-
ful in manners, pleasant in conversation, — sometimes
1	Dea. Thomas Freeman, b. 1653, s. of Dea. John, the Assistant. See
Yol. I. 602.
2	Mr. Mayo, b. 1667, was s. of John, and g. s. of Rev. John. He had
sons Wm. and Rob’t, and 8 drs.
8 Mr. Treat had a remarkably vigorous constitution, and his health was
firm until near the close of life, when attacked by palsy. A second attack
terminated his earthly existence, to the great grief of all who knew him.
His decease occurred at the time of a remarkable storm distinguished in
the annals of New England as “the great snow.” The winds blew with
violence, so that although the grounds immediately around his house were
swept entirely bare, drifts were heaped in the road to a great height. As
it was impossible to make a pathway to the grave, the burial was neces-
sarily deferred some days until an arch could be dug through some of the
more prominent drifts. The Indians were, at their urgent request, permit-
ted to take their turn with the white people, as a token of respect for their
beloved teacher and friend, in bearing his body to its long rest. Upon his
tombstone is this inscription: “ Here lies the body of the late learned and
reverend Samuel Treat, the pious and faithful pastor of this church, who,
after a very zealous discharge of his ministry for the space of forty-five
years, and laborious travail for the souls of the Indian natives, fell asleep in
Christ, Mar. 18, 1716-17, in the sixty-ninth year of his age.” Mr. Treat
grad, at Harvard College 1669. See Yol. I. 350 In addition to what is
there said, it may be remarked that his children were: Jane, b. Dec. 6,
1675; Elisa. July 24, 1676; Sarah June 20, 1678; Samuel July 1680;
Mary Mar. 16, 1682; Robt. Feb. 24,1683-4; Abigail June 13, 1686;
Joseph Nov. 19, 1690; Joshua Mar. 17, 1692; John May 17, 1693; Nathl
April 15, 1694; Eunice Sept. 27, 1704; and Robert Jan. 21, 1707. The
mother of all except the last two was Elizabeth, dr. of Mr. Samuel Mayo
(not Rev. John, as before inadvertently stated), and grand dr. of Rev.
John m. Mar. 16, 1674, and died Dec. *, 1696, ae. 44. To the mother of
his last children, Abigail (Willard) Easterbrook, widow of Benjamin, he
was m. Aug. 29, 1700. She survived until Dec. 27, 1746.382
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
facetious, always dignified though fond of humor, and
often shaking his sides with laughter.” The venerable
and learned minister of the Stone Chapel in Boston,
long since deceased (Rev. Jas. Freeman, D.D.), whose
ancestry resided in the vicinity of Mr. Treat’s labors,
has said, “ His sermons and manuscripts exhibit learn-
ing; the doctrines are defended with ability and
ingenuity; and the applications of the sermons are
tremendous.” It has been said, however, that he was
not a popular orator.1 Mr. Ed.mund Fbeeman died this
year.2
In 1718, the town appropriated £600 for the erec-
tion of a new meeting-house, and extended a call to
1 Dr. Freeman has said, “ His voice was so loud that it could be heard at
a great distance from the meeting-house where he was preaching, even in
the midst of the winds that howl over the plains of Nauset.” He says,
moreover, of that powerful voice, “ There was no more music* in it than in
the discordant sounds with which it mingled.” Such, it will be understood,
were Dr. F.’s impressions from the relation of others; he could not have
been an ear-witness.
That Mr. Treat was not distinguished for captivating oratorical powers
may be fairly inferred from an instructive and somewhat amusing anecdote
related of his preaching lor his father-in-law, minister of the Old South
Church in Boston, and sometime president of Harvard College. Dr.
Willard, as is well known, possessed superior powers of mind; his imagina-
tion rich without luxuriance, his perception rapid and correct, his argument-
ative efforts profound and clear. Mr. Treat, being invited to preach for
him, gave one of his best sermons, — without doubt; but the congregation
did not receive it with favor. Some, not knowing that the preacher was
their pastor’s son-in-law, even hinted to Mr. Willard a hope that he would
not again invite his services; they doubted not that the minister was a pious
and very worthy man, but — “ such horrid preaching! ” Mr. Willard listened
attentively, and borrowed the sermon, which, a few weeks after, he delivered
from the same pulpit, verbatim. The audience were i charmed! their min-
ister had excelled himself; he had never before preached so excellent a
sermon! ’ They even requested a copy for the press. Said one, w You
preached from the same text that stranger had; but what a difference! ”
When told it was the identical discourse preached by “ the stranger ”— “ my
son-in-law, Mr. Treat,” the effect of the announcement can be better imag-
ined than described. It has been suggested, he might with great propriety
have addressed the sapient critics, in the words of Phaedrus, —
“ En hie declarat, quales sitis judices.”
*Mr. Freeman, called Lieut., b. 1657, s. of Maj. John, m. probably
Sarah Sunderland. He had, by Sarah, Isaac, Ebenezer, Edmund, Ruth,
Sarah, Mary, Experience, Mercy, \Sankful, Elizabeth, Hannah, and
Rachel.ANNALS OF EASTHAM.
383
Mr. Samuel Osborn.1 Joseph Doane Esq., Capt. Sam’l
Freeman, John Knowles, and Nathaniel Freeman Esq.
were appointed a committee to treat with him; his
acceptance of the pastoral office was reported, and
arrangements were made for his institution, which took
place Sept. 18. In ;he mean time, however, a tempo-
rary difficulty had arisen ; the location of the old
meeting-house, at the ancient burial-place, was incon-
venient for a large portion of the present population.
Many attempts to fix on a location more central, and
harmonizing the views of all, proved unsuccessful. A
proposition was finally made to build iivo meeting-
houses,— one in the south, the other in the north
part of the town, and then divide the town into corre-
sponding parishes. This met with general approbation.
Further, it was nobly resolved that, “ if the people can-
not lovingly agree on the line dividing the two distinct
parishes to be formed, the town will invite discreet
men from neighboring towns to settle the question,
and Mr. Osbum, concurring, shall make his election of
the parish he will serve.” The duty of determining
the dividing line was committed to Messrs. Joseph
Lothrop and John Baker, of Barnstable, and Elisha
Hall of Yarmouth, whose decision settled the contro-
versy. Rev. Mr. Osborn removed to the South Parish,
and entered upon the charge of the branch of the
church now, by amicable agreement, duly organized.
Richard Knowles was paid from the town treasury
<£2.10 “ for bringing Mr. Osborn’s family and goods
from Plymouth.” The next year, “ a burial-place was
laid out at the west end of the South meeting-house.”
Mr. Simon Crosby died this year Jan. 19, aged 52; and
1 Mr. Osborn was from Ireland, and educated at the University of
Dublin.384
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Mr. Stephen Hopkins, Oct 10.1 Of the wreck of the
Whidah, we have spoken, p. 356 of our former volume.8
In 1719, the town being fined £50 for not having
a school, a petition to the Court of Sessions asked
either the remission of the fine, or that it be disposed
of for the benefit of schools in this town. The inhab-
itants of Billingsgate asked “ to be set off from East-
ham, — to constitute a distinct township extending
from the bounds of Truro to Indian Brook and thence
easterly to the sea. To this the town objected. See
Yol. I. 357. Dea. John Freeman died.3
Until 1720, the old meeting-house was occupied by
the North Parish; the new one being now finished,
1	Mr. Hopkins, b. 1642, s. of Giles, and grand s. of Stephen the Pilgrim,
is mentioned in his grandfather's will when yet an infant. See Annals of
Harwich.
2	This noted piratical craft, wrecked April 26, had succeeded in captur-
ing several vessels, one of which with a prize-crew on board, was soon after
anchored safely in Cape Cod Harbor by her rightful captain. The pirates
becoming intoxicated, he seized the opportunity and regained his ship.
Several of the prize-crew, when aroused from their drunken sleep, contrived
to escape; but they were finally arrested and taken to Boston. Six were
executed. The pirate ship itself, singularly enough, was, soon after the loss of
its prize, overtaken by a violent storm, and dashed to pieces near the table-
land of what is now Wellfleet. All but two of the crew are supposed to
have perished. Capt. Southack, sent by Government to the scene of disas-
ter, found and buried the bodies of 102. As late as 1814, parts of the ship
were yet to be seen, in the stillness and consequent clearness of the waters,
reposing in the whiteness of the sandy bottom, and coin made in the reign
of William & Mary had been found from time to time on the beach. We
are assured that, by the action of the sea, the wreck is now, 1863, again
disclosed. Mr. Pratt relates a traditional story of a man of peculiar aspect,
who, often visiting this part of the Cape, was supposed to have been one of
the pirates. The presumption was strong on the minds of many that he
was, at least, cognizant of some place where treasures were secreted,
and that he came hither for supplies as his exigencies required. Aged
people related of him, that, oft-times, in the stillness of night, his sleep was
attended by boisterous, profane, and quarrelsome outbreaks, as if he were
contending with legions. When allowed the hospitality of a private dwell-
ing, if the Scriptures were to be read and prayer offered, he was greatly
disturbed and hastily retired. It was said, moreover, that, upon his body,
after death, was found a girdle, in which was concealed much gold.
8 Mr. Freeman had held a prominent place, not only in the town, but
in the colony. See Yol. I. 601. His will was offered for probate Nov. 4,
1719. He was the patriarch of a numerous family, and survived several of
his sons who also had large families. His widow d. Sept. 27, 1721.ANNALS OP EASTHAM.
385
the former was abandoned. A burial-place was laid
out, adjoining the new place for worship, and a house
was erected for a parsonage. As an effort to concil-
iate the people of Billingsgate, a resolution was offered
in town-meeting to allow that part of the town to be
a distinct parish, — the ministers of the three parishes
to be paid from a common fund. The resolution was
negatived.
The North Precinct having taken measures to pro-
vide a minister, through their agent, Mr. Isaac Pepper;
and Mr. Benjamin Webb being invited to accept the
pastoral charge, the town unanimously voted him a
salary of £90, — the same paid to Mr. Osborn, with
the use of ministerial lands and meadows. They also
gave him in fee simple the parsonage house. He
accepted and was ordained.1
In 1721, many meetings were held in reference to the town’s
portion of the £50,000 loan. Mr. Isaac Pepper was appointed
to receive it from the Province Treasurer; and Joseph Doane
Esq., Capt. Samuel Freeman, and Nathaniel Freeman Esq.
were appointed trustees of the fund with directions to “let out
the same, £468.10 at five per cent, and no more, — taking good
security of real or personal estate.” Mr. John Freeman, son of
Dea. John, died July 27, se. 70.® ?	; S/
In 1722, the town was served with order of notice,
and appointed Mr. John Paine to appear and oppose
the petition of the inhabitants of Billingsgate; the
result was that, the next year, a committee from the
Court visited the town, heard the parties, and reported
1Rev. Mr. Webb was from Braintree, b. 1695, and grad. H. C. 1715.
aMr. John Freeman, b. 1651, m. Sarah Merrick, dr. of Wm., Dec. 18,
1672, and 2d, Mercy Watson, wid. of Elkanah of Plym. He had John
Sept. 3, 1674, d. inf.; Sarah 1676, who m. Edw. Snow; John 1678, who
m. Mercy.Watson, dr. of Elkanah ; Rebecca 1681; Nath’l Mar. 17,1682-3,
who m. Mary Watson, dr. of Elkanah; Benj. 1685, who m. Temp’e Dim-
mick; Morey, 1687, who m. Chilingsworth Foster; Patience, who m. Ele-
azer Crosby; Susanna, who m. John Mayo Jr.; Elisa., who m. John
Bacon ; and Mary, who a. Judah Berry.
YOL. II.	49386
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
in favor of the petitioners. Lt. Joseph Snow died Jan.
3, 1722-3.1
In 1723, Billingsgate became the 3d Parish in East-
ham. Until this time, one general ministerial tax had
been assessed by the town. The new parish was
organized, July 29, as the North Precinct. A meeting-
house at Chequessett Neck,—owned by proprietors,—
small, being only twenty feet square, but sufficiently
large for the present, had been erected; and Mr.
Josiah Oakes, who had been officiating here several
years, was now requested to “ continue in the ministry
with us as formerly.” He “accepted the call,” and
the precinct voted to pay him a salary of <£80.2
The town ceasing from this time to act in ecclesias-
tical matters in its former united capacity, we must
distinguish between town and parish affairs. Mr.
Oakes, we have seen, accepted the call of the newly-
organized North Precinct; but, whether there was a
misunderstanding in regard to the nature of the call
or for other reasons, we soon find him and his people
in trouble. At the very first precinct-meeting after
his acceptance, no less than twenty-six voters entered
their “ protest against his settlement and against any
*Lt. Joseph Snow had sons: Joseph, Benj., Stephen, James, and
Josiah, and 6 drs. Stephen m. Susanna Rogers, wid. of Joseph Jr., Oct.
8, 1663, and had Micaijah Dec. 22, 1669; and 3 drs. John m. Mary
Small Sept. 19, 1667, and had John May 3, 1678; Isaac Aug. 10, 1683 ;
Elisha Jan. 10, 1686-7; and 6 drs. Thomas, s. of Mark, m. Hannah
Sears, dr. Silas, Feb. 8, 1692 ; and 2d, wid. Lydia Hamblin Sept. 30, 1706 ;
and had Elisa. 1693; Mary 1696; Josiah Jan. 27, 1699; Eben. Feb. 14,
1700, who was the first child baptized in the church at Harwich, Mar. 30,
1701; Hannah 1703; Lydia 1707 ; Thomas June 15, 1709; Aaron Feb.
15, 1710-11; and Ruth 1713.
8 Mr. Oakes was from Boston, and grad. H. C. 1708. He had, evi-
dently, been here some years. His father, Doct. Thomas, of Bostun, s. of
Edward, of Cambridge, who had occupied high positions in political life, came
here, perhaps, in 1707, and d. here July 15, 1719. He had two sons,
James Oct. 30, 1687 ; and the above Josiah May 3,1689. It maybe, how-
ever, that Dr. O. did not permanently remove until after the decease of hi3
wife, which occurred in Boston Ap. 19, 1719, at the age of 70.ANNALS OP EASTHAM.
387
assessment to pay him.”1 Nevertheless, Mr. Oakes
continued his ministry in the precinct. The next
year, the situation of the parish was before the Gen-
eral Court. See Yol. I. 362-3. The following year,
the precinct voted, by a large majority, to reconsider
all former doings in regard to call, salary, settlement,
and appointed George Williamson and Elisha Eldridge
Jr. a committee “ to forbid his preaching any more in
the meeting-house,” and Samuel Brown and Samuel
Smith a committee “ to advise with neighboring minis-
ters in regard to present circumstances, and procure a
suitable minister for the parish.” Mr. Oakes, however,
made complaint to the Court of Sessions and asked
for redress, in which request he was joined by John
Doane and fifteen others. He continued to minister
to a minority; and, for some time, notwithstanding
the decision of Courts and frequent attempts of com-
mittees to heal the breach or induce him to leave
town, difficulties seemed to augment. Finally, Mr.
Oakes retired, and the precinct had the services of
another.2 Mr. John Cole d. Jan. 6, 1724-5;3 and Mr.
Jonathan Linnel July 27, 1725.
In 1727, the General Court having authorized another issue
1	Possibly invited only “ to continue in the ministry as formerly,” the
acceptance may have been couched in terms that seemed to the parishion-
ers to imply more than they had intended: the reply was, u I accept of
both your former and your latter call, together with your former and latter
proposals; and, accordingly, shall continue in the work of the ministry ii*
order to a settlement among you.”
2	Mr. John Sumner; but no movement was made for his settlement.
3	Mr. John Cole, b. 1644, m. Ruth Snow Dec 12, 1666, and had Ruth
1668; John Mar. 6, 1669-70; Hejteibah 1672, Hannah 1675 ; Joseph
June 11, 1677 ; Mary 1679; and Sarah 1682. Israel, b. 1653, m. Mary
Rogers Ap. 24, 1679, and had Hannah 1681; and Israel June 28, 1685.
William, b. 1663, m. Hannah Snow Dec. 2, 1688, and had Elisha Jan.
26, 1688-9; David Oct. 4, 1691; Hannah 1693; and Jane 1696. John,
b. 1670, had, by his w. Mary, Jona. Oct. 4, 1694: John, Oct. 14, 1696;
Mary 1698; James Oct. 23, 1700; Nathan Jan. 21, 1702-3; Joshua Mar.
20, 1704-5; Moses July 22, 1707; Phebe 1709; Thankful 1712, d. inf.;
Joseph Oct. 13, 1714; and Thankful 1716. He d. Dec. 13, 1746; she d.388
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
of Bills of Credit, to the amount of £60,000, this town voted not
to receive any part of it. Subsequently, however, the vote was
reconsidered, and Nath’l Freeman Esq., Edward Knowles, and
John Paine were constituted a committee to receive the town’s
portion, £587.15, and let it out as provided by law.
In 1728, a meeting of the North Precinct was held
to see if the parish will consent to build a new meet-
ing-house, or make arrangements with the proprietors
of the building now in use ; and it was finally agreed
between the parties that the parish repair the present
house, put in glass windows,1 and keep the building in
repair four years; after which time the parish shall,
if thought expedient, take away the glass and all
other fixtures placed there at its own expense; the
building then to revert to the proprietors. Several at-
tempts were made to obtain a minister, £200 being
voted for ministerial support and incidental charges.
A call was proffered to Mr. David Hall, but declined.2
A com. was then appointed to confer with the Presi-
dent of Ilarv. College and others to secure the servi-
ces of a suitable clergyman, and an invitation was ex-
tended to Mr. Ezra Whitmarsh,3 with the offer of £90
salary and a settlement of £120, together with the
use of the ministerial lands and a gift of four acres ;
but although Mr. W. was inclined to accept, no satisfac-
tory agreement was made, and in 1729 he discontinued
his services. Mr. Ichabod Higgins d. June 1, aged 30;4
1	The presumption is that, until now, wooden shutters only had adorned
the house.
2	Mr. Hall grad. Harv. Coll. 1724.
8 Mr. Whitmarsh grad. H. C. 1723.
* Mr. Ichabod Higgins, b. 1662, s. of Benjamin, and g. s. of Richard,
had, by his w. Melatiah, John June 8, 1692; Nathaniel June 1, 1694;
Thankful 1696; Lydia 1698; and Ebenezer Ap. 15, 1701. Jonathan,
prob. a s. of Rich’d, b. 1637, m. Elisa. Rogers Jan. 9, 1660-1, and had Be-
riah Sept. 27, 1661; Jona. Feb. 14,1664; Joseph Feb. 14,1667; and prob.
James and others. Benj. b. 1674, s. of Benj., m. Sarah, dr. of Edm. Free-
man, May 22,1701, and had sons Thomas, Paul, Benj., Zacckeus, Solomon,
Isaac, and Freeman, and 7 dr* Richard, b. 1664, s. of Benj., had, by w.ANNALS OP EASTHAM.
389
and Capt. Jonathan Bangs d. Nov. 9, ae. 78. Mr. Jebb-
muh Smith d. March 29, the previous year; and Mr.
Thomas Mayo d. Ap. 22, 1729, aged 79.1
In 1730, another effort of the North Precinct to ob-
tain a pastor was more successful. The services of
Rev. Isaiah Lewis being obtained, his ministry proved
highly acceptable. A call was extended to him with
the offer of £110 per annum “ in good and passable
money, and whatever strangers being providentially
in the place shall contribute,”2 also £200 “ good
money,” as a settlement, together with the use of the
lands and meadows belonging to the parish. Mr.
Lewis accepted, and a church was organized within
the precinct by the council assembled to ordain him,
and Elisha Doane was, at the same time, elected dear
con. The church embraced about 50 male members,
besides females. Mr. Sam’l Snow died July 26.
In 1731, Dea. Thos. Crosby died April 21, aged 68;
and Mr. John Paine, Oct. 18, aged 70. Mr. Josiah
Cook died in 1732, Jan. 31 ;3 and Mr. James Maker d.
July 8.
In 1733, the “Eastham grantees of Narraganset Township No.
Sarah, Joshua Dec. 3, 1695; Eleazer Feb. 9, 1696-7; Theoph. May 6,
1698; Jediah 1700; Zaccheus 1701; Esther 1704; David 1706; Reuben
1709; Moses 1711 ; and Abigail 1715.
1	Mr. Thomas Mayo, s. of Nathaniel 1st, b. 1650, m. Barbara Knowles,
dr. Richard, June 13, 1677, and had Thomas Ap. 3, 1678; Theoph. Oct. 31,
1680; Mary 1683; Maria 1685; Ruth 1688; Judah Nov. 25, 1691; Lydia
1694; Richard Jan. 13, 1696; and Israel Aug. 12,1700. His bro. Sam’l,
who d. 1738, was twice m. and had Samuel 1690; Jonathan; Rebecca; and
Mercy.
2	Certain portions of the Cape were, in early times, the resort, at certain
seasons, of not only fishermen from abroad, who came because of the pe-
culiar facilities here afforded for prosecuting their business, but of traders
having fishermen in their employ, or being desirous of securing shipments.
The entire method of conducting the business has changed, as have also lo-
calities where fish are sought.
8 Mr. Josiah Cook, s. of Josias, m. Deborah Hopkins July 27, 1668,
and had Elisa. Oct. 12,1669, d. inf.; Josiah Nov. 12,1670; Rich’d Sept. 1,
1672; Elisa. 1674; Caleb Nov. 15, 1676 ; Deborah 1678 ; Joshua Feb. 4,
1682-3 and Benj. Feb. 28, 1686.390
HISTORt OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
7,” are described June 6, on the records of the town of Gorbam,
as follows: “ Timothy Cole, Jeremiah Smith, Jonathan Grew,
Thomas Paine, Jed. Higgins, Eliakim Higgins, Joseph Downing,
Benjamin Downing, John Walker, John Myrick, Nathaniel Wil-
liams, John Freeman, Jonathan Sparrow, John Knowles, Samuel
Berry, Sam’l Atkins, John Doane, Thomas Mulford, Josiah Cook,
Joseph Harding, and George Brown.” The grant was for “sol-
dier-service ” in 1675. But few, we apprehend, now remained to
enjoy the bounty.
In 1734, the North Precinct resolved to build a
meeting-house, and to place it S. of Duck Creek. For
this purpose <£200 was appropriated; and the town
was asked for consent to the precinct being made a
distinct township. The application was not successful.
Agents were appointed by the town to meet such per-
sons as may be appointed by the towns of Harwich,
Chatham, Truro, and Provincetown, “ to memorialize
the Gen. Court, asking that these five towns may be
erected a County distinct and separate from the county
of Barnstable.” Agents from five towns assembled at
the house of Capt. Simeon Knowles, Nov. 20, prepared
a memorial, and delegated William Paine, John Rich,
and John Knowles to present the same and urge the
prayer of the petitioners. The application being re-
fused, an effort was next made to have the number of
courts held in the county diminished. This also was
unsuccessful. The feeling that cried for change was
not to be subdued by slight rebuffs; the subject was
still agitated with much zeal; and in 1737 a vigorous
attempt was made to obtain “ a law requiring two
terms of the Courts of Common Pleas and . Gen. Ses-
sions for the county, to be held annually in the town
of Eastham.” The “ great distance ” from the shire
town, the “ expense ” of attending courts • so remote,
the “loss of time” to jurors and others, were, of
course, the prominent reasons set forth why theANNALS OF EASTHAM.
391
change should be made. Capt. Jonathan Bangs Jr. d.
in February; and Joseph Merrick Sr. died June 15,
aged 75.1
In 1738, the pastoral relation between Rev. Mr. Os-
born and the Sooth Precinct was dissolved;2 and the
parish had, for some time, the services of Mr. Roland
Thacher.3 Difficulties had existed between the former
minister and a part of the church, growing, probably,
out of differences'of opinion in regard to doctrines.
The disaffected alleged that his religious sentiments
were lax and his teachings erroneous. An eccle-
siastical council of ten ministers and messengers, from
as many churches, had convened, June 27, upon letters
missive from Joseph Doane, Nathaniel Freeman, and
others in behalf of the majority, and Mr. Osborn was
suspended from the work of the ministry four months.
Whether he regarded the action of the council as
equivalent to a dissolution of the pastoral relation is
hardly questionable ; for, from his persisting in the oc-
cupancy of the ministerial lands, it must be inferred
that he did not consider himself as regularly dismissed.
Mr. Osborn has been represented as “a man of wisdom
and virtue, possessing many good qualities.” He had
the reputation of introducing the use of peat for fuel,
and various improvements in husbandry.4
In 1739, Mr. Joseph Crocker was unanimously called
to the pastorate of the Sooth Precinct, and was or-
1	Mr. Joseph Merrick, b. 1662, m. Elisa. Howes May 8,1684, and had
Elisa. Jan. 1685 ; Mary July 7, 1687 ; Joseph March 8, 1689-90 ; William
Jan. 26, 1692-3; and Isaac Aug. 12, 1697. The name is now often, per-
haps generally, Myrick.
2	Mr. Osborne finally removed to Boston, where he kept a grammar
school many years, and died at a great age.
3	He grad. H. C. 1733.
4	It is the suggestion of later times, that the gist of all the trouble with
Mr, Osborn was that he leaned to the views of Arminius, the church retain-
ing the faith of Calvin.392	HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
dained Scpl 12.1 To this time, the expense of sup-
porting the ministry had been shared jointly by the
two precincts, South and Central, and it was now
agreed that the same fraternal arrangement shall con-
tinue, — an account to be kept by the treasurer dis-
tinct for each, that if hereafter either parish desire a
different arrangement, there may be an equitable di-
vision of common property. Mr. Crocker was to have
the same settlement and salary as given his predeces-
sor ; in addition to which was sufficiency of wood for
yearly use delivered at his door. The precincts also
engaged “ to sustain Mr. Crocker in ejecting Mr.
Osborn.”
The town petitioned the Court for abatement of the town’s
provincial tax; also for an act favoring the preservation of Bil-
lingsgate beach and commons meadow.
In 1740, we obtain a view of the North Precinct
meeting-house; it had hitherto remained both un-
lathed and un-plastered. It was now resolved to finish
and underpin the building, and pave around it. For
lathing, plastering, etc., £63 was raised. The precinct
engaged to cause to be delivered at Mr. Lewis’s door
16 cords of wood; also to lay out more meadow for
his use, and plough for him two acres of land. The
next year an addition of £8 was made to his salary.
Two years after, 1743, a further addition of £32, old
tenor, was made ; and, two years after this, 1745, “ two
spots for pews ” were sold “ to repair the glass of the
meeting-house.” The town, this year, made “ division
of all the remaining undivided lands, from Sluts Bush
to Boat-meadow River, to 137 male inhabitants, now of
age.” Mr. Sam'l Freeman d. Jan. 30, 1743, aged 82.
la 1746, the town applied “for protection from
1 Mr. Crocker was from Barnstable, and grad. H. C. 1734.ANNALS OF EASTHAM.
393
impressment in His Majesty’s service.” The Rev.
Benjamin Webb, pastor of the Central Precinct, died
Aug. 21, ae. 51, after a ministry of 26 years, greatly
lamented. He is commended by contemporaries as
having been “ a pious, learned, laborious, faithful min-
ister, whose daily walk was holy and unblamable, and
whose prominent traits were gentleness and humility.”1
Capt. Edward Bangs d. May 22, as. 81.
After Mr. Webb’s decease, Mr. Josiah Torry2 3 and
Mr. Ezra Carpenter 3 were each, successively, invited to
the pastoral charge, but declined. Rev. Edward
Cheever was then called, and, accepting, was installed
in 1751.4 The population of the entire township was
now about 2,000. Mr. James Rogers d. Sept. 8. In
1753, Samoel Knowles Esq. died.5 6
Excepting measures “ to prevent the destruction of
the western shore,” and the adjustment of bounds on
1 Rev. Mr. Crocker of the South Precinct has said of Mr. Webb, “ He
was the best man and the best minister I ever knew; his heart was pure as
the falling snow, and his mind serene as a mild June evening sky when the
full moon shines without a cloud.” Mr. Webb was one of the several min-
isters in the county who felt constrained to unite in a declaration against
the movements of the Rev. Geo. Whitefield, which “ testimony ” was pub-
lished in 1745, and asserts “Itinerant preaching tends to destroy the
usefulness of ministers among their people, promotes strife and contention,
a censorious and uncharitable spirit, and schisms that destroy peace and
unity and threaten the subversion of many churches.” It should be men-
tioned to the honor of his parish, that, after his decease, they voted “£30,
old tenor, to his widow, with a supply of firewood for one year.” Mr. W/s
w. was Mehitable Williams of Taunton.
* Grad. II. C. 1741.
3	Grad. H. C. 1720.
4	Mr. Cheever, b. 1706, grad. H. C. 1737, was from Ipswich, and had
been previously settled.
6 Mr. Richard Knowles, who was early at Plym., was here 1653. His
children were Mercy, who m. Ephraim Doane Feb. 5, 1668 ; John; Sami
Sept. 17, 1651, at Plym.; Mehit. May 20, 1653, at E., d. inf.; Mehit.
1655 ; Barbara 1656. John m. ApphiaBangs, dr. Edward, Dec. 28,1670,
who m. 2d, Joseph Atwood. Issue: Edward Nov. 7, 1671; John July 10,
1673; and Deborah 1675. Samuel m. Mercy Freeman, grand dr. of
Gov. Prince 1679, and had James 1680; Mercy 1681; Samuel 1682;
Nath’l 1686; Richard 1688; Rebecca 1690; John 1692; Ruth 1694;
Cornelius 1695 ; and Amos 1702. John, b. 1673, by w. Mary, had Joshua
1696; John 698; Seth 1700; Paul 1702; James 1704; Jesse 1707; and
Mary 1709.
vol. h.	50394
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
either sid i of the township, this period is nearly bar-
ren of interest. In 1754, the representative elected
by the town in conformity with law was instructed
by a vote of the town “ to stay at home ” to save
expense, “ the town engaging to hold him harmless; ”
— a penny-wise and pound-foolish expedient; for,
soon after, the town found occasion to petition the
General Court, “to be released from the liabilities
incurred ” by that transaction.
In 1755, difficulties that had long been culminating in the
North Precinct, growing out of a depreciated currency that
rendered the minister’s support quite precarious, were finally set-
tled ; it being agreed that “ his salary shall,' in future, be £50
sterling,” and that he shall receive “£8, sterling,” on account of
former losses.” Mr. Samuel Doane d. Aug. 19, 1756.
In 1757, the town directed the payment of £420, old tenor, to
fourteen men “ who have been serving in the army during the
war; ” also “ that they be excused from paying a poll tax.” It
was also voted to prosecute certain inhabitants of Harwich, “ for
carrying-on the whale-fishery at Billingsgate.”
In 1758, an inhabitant of the North Precinct having
avowed himself conscientiously a Baptist, the parish
voted to remit his tax for the support of the ministry
and meeting-house repairs. It is pleasant to record
this instance of justice and toleration, and to feel
assured, as we do, that Cape Cod was at no time
greatly sinning against either Baptists or Quakers.
In 1759, the burial-place of the North Precinct was
fenced; and “Tate & Brady’s version of the Psalms”
began to be used in public worship. The next year,
provision was made “ for the support of the poor of
the town; ” and £160, lawful money, was raised for
schools. The year following, the North Precinct
engaged a teacher for its public free school, at a salary
of £40, and divided the precinct into three school
districts, appointing a school-committee for each.ANNALS OP EASIHAM.
395
The desire for change, — perhaps we should say
progress, was not laid. The years 1760 to 1763 were
times of local excitement; a strenuous effort being
made by the town, first, with the aid of other towns,
to lessen the number of courts in the county; and,
next, by the people of the North Precinct, to be set
off, either as a distinct township or district} The
town finally consenting to this last measure, the North
Precinct, or “ Billingsgate,” as called in the Act, was
incorporated May 25,1763, by the name of Wellfleet,
it being arranged that “ so far as the choice of repre-
sentatives is concerned, the two towns shall continue
associated ; but, in all other respects, shall each have
full powers and privileges as are granted to other
towns.” It was further agreed by the respective par-
ties, that “ the privileges of whaling, fishing, oystering
and harbors shall be enjoyed by both towns as before.
Wellfleet being organized, this town paid over to the
new township its full share of moneys remaining in
the treasury for general purposes, viz., £21.10.8.
The town of Eastham was thus shorn of a portion
of its area and of its population; so that, from being
in political importance the first township in the
county, it became the fifth. It seemed, however, to
receive new impetus from the change: educational
privileges were at once increased and extended;
school-houses were provided, — putting an end to the
necessity of using as a substitute rooms in private
dwellings; boundaries were defined; new highways
were constructed, and old ones repaired; and divers
public improvements indicated increasing prosperity.
1 Whether the desire to lessen the frequency of the county courts was
prompted by the fact that litigation was infrequent and but few causes
required the attention of courts, or because their locality was not controlla-
ble, is a question that we may not decide.396
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
And so well satisfied were the people with the dimin-
ished extent of territory, that an application to the
General Court by persons belonging to Harwich to be
set off with their estates and annexed to Eastham,
was met with a remonstrance.1
Exposure to the ravages of small-pox, at this time, induced an
application of the town to the Quarter Sessions, to authorize a
fine of any persons who, having been exposed to the infection,
and having knowledge of the fact, should neglect to give timely
notice to the selectmen. The population of the town was now
1331. The decay of the Indians — a subject of melancholy
interest—was now almost consummated; the census returns for
1765 showed that there were but four remaining in Eastham.2
The Nausets, once numerous and powerful, were soon to be,
like the mammoth, only known to have existed !
The readjustment of the bounds between this town and Har-
wich in 1764,3 and defining the bounds between this town and
Wellfleet in 1765,4 is all that we find, for some years, of general
interest. Mr. John Snow died Feb. 15, 1766.
In 1772, the South Precinct was bereaved of its
beloved minister, the Rev. Joseph Crocker, who died
March 2d, in the thirty-third year of his ministry.
1The applicants resided at Potanumaquut. The town subsequently
consented to receive them and their estates with the Indian inhabitants •
within the line.
2 The same census reported 11 in Wellfleet, and 91 in Harwich, the
greater numbers of whom were at Potanumaquut, which, as stated in the
preceding note, was, by and by, annexed to this town. A missionary con-
tinued to labor among them a few years; but the race was inevitably
doomed to fade away. In 1802 there remained but one* Indian within the
bounds of the ancient Nauset, and only three at Potanumaquut.
8 These were declared to be: “ From the N. bounds of Namskaket, thence
running southerly to a black-oak tree near Baker's pond, marked E. H.
with a stone there placed; thence to the S. W. part of the pond to a heap
of small stones in the edge of the pond; thence southerly to a stake and
stones near Chatham road ; thence southerly, following the road; thence to
the S. E. in the Bay by a rock at the edge of the water; thence to Potanu-
maquut harbor, as the channel now runs.
4 The bounds between Eastham and Wellfleet: “ Beginning at a white-
oak tree at the head of Indian Brook, marked on the S. side E. and on the
N. side W.; thence running due E. by marked trees to a pine-tree marked
E. on the S. side, and W. on the N.; thence E. to the back side; and
from the first mentioned bounds at the head of Indian brook, running west-
erly, as the brook runs, to a stake on the beach at the mouth of said Indian
brook, crossing the end of Billingsgate Point to Barnstable Bay.”ANNALS OP EASTHAM.
397
Mr. Jonathan Bascom was called to succeed Mr.
Crocker, and was ordained Oct. 14.1
In the times of trouble that preceded the open rup-
ture between the colonies and the mother country,
this town was by no means an indifferent observer of
passing events; nor, when the ordeal came, were the
people backward to assert and maintain what they
regarded as American rights. The situation of the
town was, it is true, one of peculiar exposure; in the
event of a resort to arms, its maritime interests must
suffer, and its dwellings be at the mercy of those who
controlled the seas; but we are not aware that a
majority of its inhabitants ever quailed under the
apprehension of danger, or shrunk from duty.
In 1773, at a meeting duly convened, Feb. 27, to
deliberate and express opinions in regard to matters
of public grievance, Capt. Solomon Pepper was chosen
moderator, and patriotic resolutions reported by a
large committee were adopted: —
“ 1. That the several Acts of Parliament which are so generally
complained of by these colonies are manifest violations of our
rights.
“ 2. That we would be happy if the connection might be con-
tinued between Great Britain and these colonies, and they be
governed according to the true spirit and meaning of our several
charters, and the British constitution.
“3. That we justly dread the consequences which the burdens
we groan under must, if not removed, produce.
1 Of Mr. Crocker it has been said, that " although not gifted with popu-
lar eloquence, he was a hard student, of very respectable attainments, pru-
dent, of great mildness, affectionate in disposition, and a bright exemplar
of virtue’s excellence.” The inscription on his tomb-stone says: “ Here lies
all that was mortal of the Rev. Joseph Crocker, the pious, faithful, and
respected pastor of the church in this town, who, willing rather to be
absent from the body and present with the Lord, died Mar. 2, 1772, in the
58th yr. of his age, and the 33d of his ministry.” Mr. C. was b. in Be.
1714, was twice m., and had 3 ch. viz.: Josiah, who was called to the min-
istry in Y.; Lucia, who m. Rev. Simeon Williams, of Weymouth; and
Anne, who m. Rev. Wm. Shaw, of Marshfield.398
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
<c4. That every true friend of his country who shall have the
offer of a seat as a judge in the sessions of the courts of judica-
ture, upon such a detestable plan as we hear is established, will
bless his memory by rejecting it with abhorrence; and all who
accept, instead of being deemed the dispensers of justice, will be
objects of contempt.
“ 5. That we have a right to meet, deliberate, and act on all
matters worthy of our attention; and that we look upon that
man, or society of men, who can sit still and see their rights,
privileges, and money daily taken from them without their con-
sent, as not worthy of the name of freemen.
“ 6. That we have a right to communicate our sentiments and
ask advice of any or all the towns in the Province, or elsewhere,
if need be.”
It was further voted “ that the rights of Americans, as stated
by the Boston committee, are in consonance with our views; ”
and “thanks” were voted “to that committee, and to the people
of Boston, for their zeal and activity in the cause of liberty.”
Instructions were given to the representatives of this town. It
was then “ ordered, that these doings of the town be placed on
record as a memorial of the appreciation of our rights and privi-
leges.” Barnabas Freeman, Thomas Paine, and Joseph Cole
were appointed a committee to transmit a copy of the aforesaid
proceedings to the town of Boston.
To say that none in this town were of opposing
views, or that some who began well did not falter, were
not consonant with facts; but, that Eastham was, as a
town, patriotic, and that noble spirits were here acting
in concert with leading patriots at Sandwich and
Barnstable, is attested not simply by resolutions, but
by correspondence.
In 1774, this town, with others, took action in
regard to the use of teas. Thomas Paine and others,
a committee of correspondence, reported resolutions
that were adopted: —
“1. That the seven late resolves of the citizens of Philadel-
phia, which the town of Boston, and several other towns, have
adopted, are hereby adopted as the expression and sentiments of
this town.ANNALS OF EASTHAM.
399
u 2. That the disposal of their own property is the inherent
right of freemen, and that it cannot rightfully be taken from
them without their consent.
“ 3. That the duty imposed by Parliament on teas landed in
America is levying contributions on us without our consent, and
that the claim to tax us is a claim of right to lay contributions
at their pleasure.
“ 4. That the express purpose for which the tax is levied — for
the support of government, the administration of justice, and
the defence of His Majesty’s dominions — has a direct tendency
to render our constitutional assemblies useless, and to introduce
an arbitrary government and slavery.
“ 5. That a vigorous and steady opposition against this minis-
terial plan of governing America is necessary to preserve even
a shadow of liberty, and is a duty which every freeman owes to
himself, to his country, and to posterity.
“6. That the determination which the East India Company
have lately adopted, to send their teas to America, subject to the
payment of a duty, is an open attempt to enforce the ministerial
plan, and a violent attack on our liberties.
u 7. That it is the duty of every American to oppose it.
“ 8. That whosoever shall, directly or indirectly, countenance
this attempt, is an enemy to his country.”
The committee of vigilance and correspondence
were instructed “ to make careful observation to detect
any who presume to sell, buy, or use, the detestable
article, that their names may be known both at home
and abroad.” The town also, from time to time, passed
resolutions approbatory of the doings of the Provincial
Congress.
This year, an effort began to be made, in conjunction with
Wellfleet, to propagate oysters in the Bay.1
In 1776, the town instructed their representative to
urge upon the Continental Congress the importance
of declaring the United Colonies independent of Great
1 Here is an illustration of the remark we have before made, that the
employments of the people have been the result of their position. The
embargo upon commerce led, at this time, to the planting of oysters,— a
business that has been continued, and has proved very lucrative.400
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Britain. Encouragements were also given to enlist-
ments into the Continental service,— a bounty of £8.
To those volunteering in the Provincial service, a
bounty of £3.
In 1777, the town was represented by Messrs.
Solomon Pepper, Barnabas Freeman, and Amos
Knowles, at a meeting in the shire, to act in conven-
tion on public affairs.
A vessel, the brig Wilkes, having been cast ashore this year,
on the east side of the town, and depredations having been
made on the wreck by some unprincipled adventurers, a town-
meeting was called, and a committee appointed “ to ferret out
and bring to justice those wTho committed the wrong,— that the
honor of the town may be vindicated.”
In 1778, efforts were renewed by the town to complete its
quota of men for the continental army. For each enlistment,
£80, old tenor, was voted, and a committee chosen to provide
for the families of the soldiers in their absence from home. The
amount appropriated at different times to sustain the war was
£2,580.
In 1779, the question of a new Constitution coming
up, this town declared against the proposed change,
30 to 2. A committee was appointed to regulate
prices, agreeably with the recommendation of the
State Convention held at Concord.
Poverty and distress being the effect of the protracted war,
commerce and fisheries interrupted, and the business of the place
destroyed, the inhabitants petitioned the General Court to abate
the State tax of the town; representing the effort and sacrifice
required to provide its quota of soldiers, and at the same time
support the gospel and schools. The salaries of the clergymen
of the two precincts were increased to £275 each, old tenor; this
in consequence of the depreciation.
In 1780, the number of men again required for Continental
service was enlisted; the town engaging “ to pay each man thir-
teen Spanish milled dollars per month in addition to the £2 paid
by the State.” The next year, the town hired four men to join
the army then in Rhode Island, and engaged “ to pay each manANNALS OF EASTHAM.
401
sixteen bushels of grain, and two silver dollars per month,
besides bearing their expenses on the way.” These men were
David Taylor, Benoni Baker, Nathaniel Knowles and Abijah
Mayo. There was one requisition, however, with which the
town could not comply, — that was, “the furnishing of beef for
the army.” When a committee of the General Court, acting
in performance of duty, visited the Cape towns, that committee
was satisfied that no possible amount of patriotism could enable
the people here to answer the requisition. Mr. Barnabas
Freeman died Jan. 17,1781.
In anticipation of peace, the town instructed its rep-
resentative to exert himself to secure in General Court
proper measures to influence delegates to Congress to
press the importance of the New England fisheries,
and of proper regulations respecting them, in any
negotiations with Great Britain. The inhabitants
were again under the necessity of petitioning for an
abatement of its portion of the public taxes. But, in
good time, Peace was, happily, restored. The town
had been severely scourged, but the broad expanse of
ocean was now free; the channels of business were
once more unobstructed; and the place could yet rise
from its depression. Among ship-owners, the din of
preparation was heard; its enterprising seamen joined
in the busy movement, and hurried- forth to repair
their losses and gather the treasures of the deep.
The agricultural districts can hardly estimate the
double exhaustion that war brings to a maritime town.
In apportioning the revenue from taxable property,
this peculiarity had been overlooked by government;
and before returns could be made from voyages, this
town must needs again memorialize the General Court
The Court, whether from incredulity, or because an
excursion to the ancient seat of the Nausets would be
an agreeable recreation to its members, sent another
committee “ to examine into the circumstances of the
VOL. II.
51402
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
town,” — especially in reference to the valuation that
had been ordered.
The town, notwithstanding all its perplexities, had
at no time been derelict in its provision for schools.
The institutions of religion survived.
In 1785, measures were adopted by the town to
prevent trespasses by strangers, upon its banks: — we
mean those never-failing, always-discounting institu-
tions which Nature has so bountifully provided here;
furnishing bait for fishing, and sustenance to those
whose taste is epicurean.1 * * * * * * 8 The town has ever shown
a disposition to foster these banks; and hence the
application now made to the legislative authorities for
an Act to prevent a “ run ” upon the banks by those
for whose immediate benefit they were not established.
In 1790, the population of this town was 2,064.
Efforts were made this year to obtain a suitable enact-
ment regulating the fisheries generally.
In 1794, Aug. 17, the Rev. Edwakd Cheever, long
time pastor of what, until the incorporation of Well-
fleet, we had with propriety denominated the Central
Church, died, aged 78, and in the 43d year of his
ministry; a gentleman of much learning, of good
natural talents, a good preacher, plain, but successful
1 In the early settlement of New England, a dish of clams was highly
appreciated. See Vol. I. 116. Statistics show that 500 bis. of clam-bait,
and sometimes 1000 bis., per annum, have been furnished here. Some
200 persons have, at times, found employment in digging, opening, salting,
and heading in casks, this species of bait. It requires 12 or 18 bushels in
shell, to fill, when opened and removed, a barrel. A thousand bushels of
clams, worth never less than $5 to $6 per barrel, are equal in value to 6 or
8 thousand bushels of Indian corn, and are procured with, probably, not
much more labor or expense. These treasures, hidden in the sands, are,
under proper regulations, inexhaustible; for, those parts of the flats or
shores that are once dug over soon yield again a crop as abundant.
Indeed, it is said to be advantageous to the clam grounds to stir them as
often as once in two or three years. Taking into consideration the other
fish supplied by the coves, and the bait obtained from the clam-grounds,
these portions of the township may be regarded as more pecuniarily valuable
than if covered with the most fertile soil.ANNALS OF EASTHAM.
403
in his labors.1 The next year, Mr. Philander Shaw
was invited as Mr. Cheever’s successor. A salary of
£90 was offered him, and a settlement of £200. He
was ordained Sept. 23.2 The town also, this year,
added £10 to the salary of Mr. Bascom. The ministry
in both precincts, it will be understood, still contin-
ued to be supported from a common treasury. The
next year, however, 1796, preliminary arrangements
were made to divide. From the year 1718, when the
South Precinct Church was organized, the two had
been united in ecclesiastical expenditures. Whether
ministerial support, building or repairing the places for
public worship, &c., all was met by a town tax. Now,
again, the town harmoniously voted a tax of $1,066.66,
for the support of the gospel in these two precincts,
and for incidental expenses. Application was made
this year to the General Court, and a committee was
sent from that body, “ to establish the line between
this town and Chatham.”
In 1797, the South Precinct was incorporated as a
distinct town, by the name of Orleans. Dea. Joseph
Pepper, the remaining selectman of Eastham, was
authorized by-the Act of Incorporation to call a meet-
ing for the reorganization of this ancient town, which
meeting was held Mar. 15. It was amicably agreed
between authorized representatives of both towns,
May 11, that this town pay the town of Orleans
$217.25; that Orleans shall have all the outstanding
taxes of the town under its old organization; that
this town pay to Orleans, as soon as any of the Pota-
nmnaquut Indians become chargeable, $13.90, the
1 Rev. Mr. Cheever’s first wife was a Wigglesworth; his 2d, Dorcas
Cook, of this town. He had several sons.
8 Mr. Shaw was from Marshfield, nephew of Rev. Oakes of Be., and s.
of Rev. Wm., who was s. of Rev. John of Bridgewater.404
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
proceeds of Indian lands sold by order of the General
Court; and that the old records be retained by the
town of Orleans.1 The population of this town was
now reduced to 840; and yet two school-houses were
this year built, and other signs exhibited of vitality
and good cheer.2
In 1799, considerable investments were being made
in the manufacture of salt. A canal from Great-
meadow River to Herring Pond was constructed. The
dangers of the coast were illustrated this year by several
ill-fated wrecks. The century closing in 1800 left a
population here of only about 800,— a continued
decline. The meeting-house had been enlarged, at an
expense of $1,562.41, and the pews gained were sold
for $2,010.3 Capt. Winslow Lewis d. July 1801, ae. 63.4
In 1804 a committee was appointed to join a committee from
Orleans, and examine and report the practicability of uniting
Town Cove and Boat-meadow River by a navigable canal. Ap-
plication was made to the legislature for power to raise the
amount necessary for its construction, by a lottery. A connec-
tion was thus effected between the bay and the ocean on the
opposite side ; but to no useful purpose.
The year 1806 witnessed another of those disasters to which
1 An equal division was made of “ books, powder, balls, and gun-flints.”
* The bounds between Eastham and Orleans were thus defined: “ A line
beginning at Rook-harbor River, and running by divers courses to Boat-
meadow River; thence running up the middle of the river to its head;
thence running southerly through the centre of the meadow to a swamp;
thence through the swamp and along Jeremiah’s Gutter into the middle of
the Town Cove; thence running down the centre of the cove to Stone
Island; and thence an easterly course into the Atlantic Ocean.
8 Rev. Mr. Shaw, in the Mass. Hist. Coll., 1802, represents, that of 99
dwelling-houses in E., only 7 were more than one story high. These
were occupied by 122 families. The other buildings, exclusive of barns,
etc., were two windmills for grinding the cereals, two schoolhouses, and a
meeting-house.
4 Capt. Lewis, b. 1738, was s. of the former pastor of the N. Precinct.
See Wellfleet. Capt. L. had been a prominent citizen, and was highly
esteemed. By his m. with Mary Knowles, dr. of Willard Sept. 12,1765;
he had Abigail 1766, d. inf.; Abigail Oct. 25,1768,whom. Samuel Austin;
and Winslow May 11, 1770, who set. in Boston, and was f. of the present
Poet. Winslow Lewis.ANNALS OF EASTHAM.
405
mariners are exposed on this dangerous coast. The ship Confi-
dence, Isaiah Knowles, master, sailed from Boston for the coast
of Africa; but was upset in a violent gale near the terminus of
the Cape, and driven into the Bay west of this town,—the
entire crew lost.
In 1807, we are favored with a passing view of
Eastham, its venerable pastor, and one of his parish-
ioners, in the graphic descriptions and delineations of
the traveller. “ All,” says Kendal, “ attend the minis-
try of Mr. Shaw, — only the fifth clergyman that has
been settled in the place since the town was settled in
1644.”1 But it is not so much to glance at the learned
and excellent minister, that we introduce Mr. K., as to
gain from him an inkling of the interior and surround-
ings of the abode of a retired sea-captain. The way-
farer must, in the absence of inns, find rest and
refreshment where he may; so, discovering in the
distance a house, a barn, and a small building, which
proved to be the captain’s store, “ the house, conspic-
uous over the level champaign by which it was sur-
rounded, appearing to be the chateau of the domain,”
he approached. He was, of course, welcome, though
unknown. It was a habit the good people of the
Cape had in those days, to entertain strangers. The
hospitality, on this occasion, seems to have been ex-
tended also without undue inquisitiveness; for not
even the nationality of the guest was known until
divulged in the form of dissent to some patriotic
remark of the host. This was at noon; the family
dinner was ready, and the enjoyments of a good meal
generally enliven conversation. At the table, alluding
to topics of general interest, the captain asked,u Do you
1 Mr. K. called upon this gentleman, but saw less of him than he wished,
“ partly because with zealous kindness he employed himself in writing let-
ters for me to his friends, a service from which I reaped the most agreeable
and valuable benefits.”406
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY
not think the bloody Admiral Berkeleywill be hanged ? ”
The reply is not given, but may be inferred by its
rejoinder, “ What! not hanged! then the United
States will have Halifax, Canada, the West Indies,
They will show to King George what Yankee spunk
is.” This was coming nearer home to the stranger
than was intended; and, to an intimation to this effect
Capt. Collins could only, with surprise, reply, “ You a
British subject! you do not speak like one ; you speak
a great deal too well to be an Englishman ; you must
have been a long time in this country. Never before
knew an Englishman to speak the language so well.”
The exciting topic was dropped by the captain, with the
solitary remark that he was ‘ for liberty and equality.’
“After dinner,” says Mr. K., “the captain’s lands
afforded a topic. He is an improver and a lover of
good taste. After viewing the farm and the arrange-
ments of the house, we ascended the gallery of the
roof, with a telescope in hand. Capt. C. had been a
voyager and had boldly pursued the whale through
the billows of the Pacific Ocean, and was now enjoying
the honorable reward of a youth of industry.” Mr.
Thomas Paine died Oct. 3, 1807.
In 1809, this town was again called to severe trial,
by reason of the Embargo. Navigation being sus-
pended, a large portion of the townsmen were unem-
ployed, and some deprived of the only means of sup-
porting themselves and families. To commercial com-
munities generally, it was a season of privation and
sacrifice. The succeeding year, the census showed a
Continued diminution, the population of the town
being only 782. The declaration of war, in 1812,
seemed to place the ban upon Eastham’s prosperity.
There was, as might be expected, some division of
sentiment in regard to the expediency of hostilities.ANNALS OF EASTHAM.
407
The injustice of Britain’s claims was acknowledged
by all, and her persistence in impressments was repro-
bated ; but the town would, without doubt, have
desired a postponement of the issue. No action, how-
ever, was had conflicting with the national policy.
The fisheries, in which the greater portion of the
inhabitants were principally interested, were not sim-
ply interrupted, but vessels were captured, and crews
were made prisoners. All communication with com-
mercial cities, except by small boats running near the
shores, was cut off; and even the attempt to put forth
cautiously in these was attended with uncertainty and
risk. As in the war of the revolution, so now, the
very headquarters of the naval forces of the enemy
was Cape Cod Harbor, — strangely left, and ever has
been since, unprotected, as if statesmen were intent
upon reserving for the common enemy one of the best
havens on the continent; and tenders and barges
were constantly on the alert, watching every move-
ment, and guarding the mouths of even the minutest
creeks.1 The smallest and fleetest boats were some-
times captured, and, in some instances, the crews were
compelled to serve on board British men-of-war.
Threats of burning the town and of a general destruc-
tion of property, accompanied with offers of indem-
nity on conditions proposed, were successful.1
1 It seemed less practicable to attempt reaching Boston than New York.
To provide supplies, frequent exchanges were made with the latter city, as
also Providence, Hartford, and New Haven. In the use of whale-boats,
watching an opportunity and sailing to Sandwich, the boats to be carted
thence across the isthmus to Buzzard’s Bay; from that point of departure
running near the shores, as occasion required, and enabled to make a harbor
in case of emergency at any moment, they proceeded cautiously on their
way. The exports were generally dried fish or salted mackerel, which
were bartered for flour and other necessaries; the return, by the same
route. The writer has seen large fleets of boats, belonging to different
towns on the Cape, thus arrive at Sandwich, having seized the opportunity
of exit; their cargoes speedily packed in wagons, the boats elevated on
the same, and in a few hours again launched on the waters of the oppo-408
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Numbers of the inhabitants essayed to serve the
country in privateers.1 The war concluded, the in-
habitants were again at their more peaceful pursuits,
but with resources sadly crippled.
In the early months of the succeeding year, the
town was scourged by unusual sickness, the origin of
which has never been satisfactorily ascertained. That
a township proverbially healthy should, in the short
space of about four months, find its population more
than decimated, was an occurrence fraught with much
alarm, and was long remembered with sadness.2
So little of general interest is to be found on record
beyond the mere routine of a town’s usual business,
site side, the freight reinstated, and the crafts with their energetic com-
manders again on their way to port. It was no unusual thing for those
who had commanded first-class merchantmen, being now out of employ-
ment, to sail these small boats on such adventures.
1	Rev. Enoch Pratt, in his “ History of Eastham,” mentions incidents
connected with the war, which we have not room to reproduce. One was
the instance of the capture of Capt. Matthew H. Mayo and Capt. Winslow
E. Knowles, experienced shipmasters, who, with a whale-boat, loaded with
rye, succeeded in reaching Boston, and exchanged their freight for
family supplies. Obtaining for their return trip a more capacious craft,
they were captured by a ‘ pink-stern * supposed to be fishing. Taken on board
the man-of-war, Spencer, they were offered a ransom, and Capt. K. was
permitted to return to Boston to provide for the payment of the S300
demanded. He there concluded to abandon the attempt. Capt. M. was
put on board the schooner that had captured him, and compelled to serve
as pilot with three British officers and twenty men, well armed, for a cruise
in the Bay. A severe ‘ Nor’wester ’ soon enabling him to advise making a
harbor at Billingsgate Point, he contrived to get the vessel ashore, where
the whole crew were taken prisoners by his fellow-townsmen. Before the
marshal could arrive, however, to take possession of prisoners and baggage,
sundry of the inhabitants concluded it was injudicious to detain them, since
the town was left defenceless by the government and at the mercy of the
enemy, and the officers and crew were permitted to take a small boat and
return to the ship. The result was, a barge despatched by the commodore
arrived with a demand for satisfaction, threatening to reduce the town to
ashes if the demand were denied. The selectmen, as a committee of
safety, visited the flag-ship, and, upon their representations, the matter was
settled, — the town paying $1,000 for the safety of the place, and $200 to
compensate for the prisoners’ baggage which had passed into the marshal’s
hands.
2	From Jan. 18 to May 30, 1816, 72 persons died. The epidemic was
confined to no locality, class, or age. Almost every family was called to
mourn the loss of one or more of its members; and, it has been said, the
sickness was so prevalent that there were scarcely sufficient numbers in
health to care for the suffering.ANNALS OF EASTHAM.
409
that we must pass by the few succeeding years with a
very cursory notice. The wreck of the Rolla, in the
Dec. of 1820, with the loss of crew sfnd passengers, on
Nauset beach, and similar disasters from time to time,
are events that form no part of town history. The
population of the town this year was 766 ; a decline
from 1810. Until this time, there had been one relig-
ious denomination only, in Eastham. A number of
the inhabitants this year evinced an interest in the
faith and order of the followers of Rev. John Wesley.1
A Methodist Society was organized, and Rev. E. Wiley
was the minister in charge. As the system of itineracy
practised by this respectable class of Christians ren-
ders ministerial changes a matter of generally annual
occurrence, it is impracticable to note the successions.
The following year, 1821, a Methodist meeting-house
was erected. The Methodists were destined to out-
number the Congregationalists.
In 1826, Harding Knowles Esq. died.
In 1829, the old Congregational meeting-house was
abandoned, and a new edifice was provided in a more
eligible situation. The town this year appointed a
committee to enforce the law against the sale of intox-
icating liquors. It was ordered that there shall be
only one person approbated for license in town.
In 1830, the population was 966, a gain, for the last
ten years, of 200.
In 1836, Mr. Samuel Freeman died Mar. 4, aged 72.
In 1837, the town received $2,100,—its portion of the
surplus revenue, which was in part appropriated to
the building a bridge over Boat River; the balance of
this fund was the next year invested, the interest to
1 It is said that this interest was excited through the influence of a camp-
meeting held in a neighboring town.
52
VOL. II.410
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
be applied to the support of town schools. At the
same period, an Act of Incorporation was obtained
by an association which, two years previously, had
purchased “Millennial Grove,” — the Camp-meeting
grounds.1
In the Oct of 1839, occurred the tremendous storm
on the coast, by which many lives were lost and much
property destroyed. In 1840 the population num-
bered 955.
The Rev. Philander Shaw died, Oct. 10, 1841, aged
73.2 After the decease of Mr. Shaw, the Congrega-
tional Church and Society continued to exist; but the
record made by the pastor, with evident satisfaction,
in 1802, “ the people of Eastham are happily united
in the same mode of religious worship as in the days
of their fathers, there being not an individual in town
that does not belong to the Congregational Society,”
had long since ceased to be applicable; and its vitality
almost alone survived. Rev. Daniel H. Babcock was
a short time in charge; Rev. Stillman Pratt succeeded
him; Rev. Solomon Hardy; Rev. Enoch Pratt and
others; but, upon this ancient institution, the planting
of Pilgrim Fathers, decay is too sadly inscribed to re-
quire further mention. In fact, since the chief prepara-
tion of these Annals, the church, which once filled so
large a space in the ecclesiastical history of the colony,
has passed away. The organization of both church and
1	Mr. Pratt says, the first of the camp-meetings for which Eastham has
been noted was held here in 1828. He represents these grounds, about 10
acres, as “attractive and beautiful, well-adapted by their location and nat-
ural features for the purpose to which they are devoted; near the shore of
the bay where steamboats and other vessels may conveniently land their
passengers.”
2	Rev. Philander Shaw m. 1st, Dorothy Doane of E., 2d, Lucy Crocker
of Be. He had Joseph P., who settled at Roxbury; Philander, who d.
young; William d. young; and Lucy, who m. Alexander Childs of Cotuit.
Mr. Shaw sustained the pastoral relation here more than 41 years; “his
talents were more than ordinary; his elocution good; and his last illness
attended with triumphant faith.”ANNALS OF EASTHAM.
411
parish is gone, and all that remains of the consecrated
temple in which they worshipped is desecrated to
secular use! Capt. Francis Krogman died 1862, ae. 83.
We conclude the Annals of Eastham with saddened
thoughts. Our Methodist friends, we doubt not, will
be careful to secure all sufficient religious privileges
for the inhabitants of the ancient seat of the Nausets;
but we feel the force of the motto prefixed to these
Annals: “ It is a reverend thing to see an ancient castle
NOT IN DECAY.”
Before we proceed to the statistical tables with
which these Annals close, we may remark that the
people of Eastham, as a patriotic community, have
done, and, as we write, July 4, 1863, are doing their
part, with willing hearts, to sustain our national integ-
rity, and to perpetuate the blessings of free institu-
tions. The immortal words of Washington, “If the
laws are to be trampled upon with impunity, and the
minority to dictate to the majority, there is an end put
at one stroke to republican government,” come home
to the heart of every true American, at this, our
national anniversary, with singular force. Represent-
atives of the pride and hope of numerous households
are being sacrificed to the country’s honor on the
battle-field. Sons of the Cape, already fallen in the
cause sacred to liberty, sleep on the field where they
fell. May the cause of justice, of humanity, of na-
tional freedom and glory triumph.
It is both a consoling and a painful reflection,
on this hitherto, and, we trust, always to be proud
jubilee, — and we here deliberately record it as our
firm conviction, — that domestic agitation and strife
have arisen not so much from reciprocal animosity, as
from the ill-conduct of men in place,— the ambitious412
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
designs of politicians, the restless and grasping desires
of the unprincipled, the seditious enterprises to which
base passions lead. The empire of justice and virtue
is less the effect of laws, than of principle.
“I'd love
My country’s good, with a respect more tender,
More holy and profound, than mine own life ”
the predominant feeling, men of position and intellect-
ual power, or political influence,
“ Had employed
Those excellent gifts of fortune and of nature
Unto the good, not ruin of the State.”
It will be a singular fact to record hereafter upon
the page of history, if in the loyal States there be
found any considerable numbers who, — as the
tories at the time of establishing our national liber-
ties espoused the cause of the enemy, some by open
revolt and others by professedly pious protestations
and wily machinations; and, as the party which con-
demned the war of 1812, and, through their leaders in
Congress, in our State legislatures, in public journals,
in conventions, and on every occasion, opposed the
government and sought to embarrass it, thus giving
aid and comfort to the enemy, and were, in conse-
quence, finally driven from place and political influ-
ence to inherit the reprobation of posterity, — shall
tread in footsteps that have been dishonored. Even
more remarkable will it be, if, foremost among such,
are found men who have ever denounced the opposition
to government and the language of malcontents re-
specting both the government and the war-supporting
party of those periods. Confident we are, and, from the
teachings of history, most assured such may be, that, in
every hour of trial, when the salvation of our countryANNALS OP EASTHAM.
413
is at issue, the people will discover who take the patri-
otic side. They will be loyal, and will stand by their
country’s cause, even though some comparatively
trivial errors inseparable from human affairs be re-
gretted, some omissions noted, or some unavoidable
and necessary excesses of authority be indulged.
The rebellion against the Union, under the name of
Secession, would, doubtless, have been brief but for the
repugnance of the loyal to the exercise of prompt,
energetic, decisive measures. That mildness and de-
lay in dealing with treason is a mistaken policy, and
that promptness and vigor are, in such a case, the
attributes of mercy was a lesson to be learned. The
necessity was painful to contemplate; the demonstra-
tion must needs come.
The following were Deputies of Nauset until 1651; after that,
of Eastham: —
rrs.
1647.	Josias Cooke,	13.
“ Ric’d Higgins,	7.
1648.	Nicholas Snow,	3.
1649.	Samuel Hicks,	2.
“ John Doane,	6.
DEPUTIES.
Yrs.
1654.	Daniel Cole,	12.
u Jno. Freeman, 8.
1655.	Richard Sparrow, 3.
1660. Nathaniel Mayo, 1.
1668. Jona. Sparrow, 18.
Yrs.
1671. Thos. Paine,	7.
1674.	Jonathan Bangs,	3.
1675.	Mark Snow,	6.
1680. John Cook,	2.
1690. Thos. Paine, Jr.,	2.
Yrs.
1692.	Jona. Sparrow,	2.
“ Jona. Bangs,	1.
1693.	John Doane,	1.
1696.	Thos. Paine,	1.
1697.	Samuel Knowles,	23.
1698.	Israel Cole,	4.
1702. Joseph Doane,	2.
1709. John Paine,	9.
1711. Samuel Mayo,	2.
1722. Isaac Pepper,	1.
1730.	Joshua Higgins,	1.
1731.	Wm. Paine,	6.
1735. Ralph Smith,	1.
1751. John Freeman,	4.
1756.	Solomon Pepper,	3.
1757.	Jona. Doane,	6.
1758.	Sylvs. Snow,	2.
REPRESENTATIVES.
xrs.
1767.	Willard Knowles, 2.
1768.	Elisha Doane, 3.
1769.	Thos. Paine,	5.
1772. Barnabas Freeman, 10
1774.	Naaman Holbrook, 1.
1775.	Amos Knowles, 2.
1778. Josiah Rogers, 1.
1782. Nathan Doane, 4.
1785. Elijah Knowles, 10.
1797.	Simeon Kingman, 1.
“ Michael Collins, 1.
1798.	Benj. Clark,	1.
1800. Elisha Mayo,	2.
1802. Samuel Freeman, 11.
1811. John Doane,	3.
1813. Heman Smith, 3.
1818. Josh. P. Atwood, 2.
1820. Harding Knowles, 5.
1829. Jesse Collins, 1.
1831.	Samuel Knowles, 1.
1832.	Michael Collins, 3.
1834. David C. Atwood, 2.
1836. Geo. Collins,	2.
1838. Philander Shaw, 2.
1840. Bars. Freeman, 1.
1811. Henry Horton, 2.
1843. B. H. A. Collins, 1.
18*14. Elij. E. Knowles, 2.
1848. Barnas. Doane, 1.
1851* Scotto Cobb,	2.
1853.	Reuben Nickerson, 1.
1854.	Jona. Snow,	1.
1855.	Elij. E. Knowles, 1.
After the incorporation of Wellfleet, it was still united with this town, until 1774,
for representation.414
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
1663. John Freeman,	10.
44 Nicholas Snow,	7.
44 John Doane,	14.
1665. Edward Bangs,	2.
44 Richard Higgins,	3.
1667. Mark Snow,	18.
44 Daniel Cole,	9.
1670.	John Doane Jr.,	8.
44 Wm. Nickerson,	2.
1671.	Jona. Sparrow,	10.
“ Thos. Paine,	19.
1673.	Joseph Harding, 1.
1674.	Jona. Bangs,	3.
1687.	Daniel Doane,	4.
44 Jabez Snow,	4.
1688.	Benj. Higgins,	1.
1690.	Thos. Mayo,	12.
1691.	Thos. Paine Jr.,	3.
44 Isaac Pepper,	11.
1692.	Sam’l Knowles,	6.
1693.	Sam’l F reeman,	6.
44 John Paine,	6.
1694.	Israel Cole,	5.
1695.	Edm’d Freeman,	7.
1697.	Dan’l Cole Jr.,	1.
1698.	Sam'l Paine,	6.
1700. Sam’l Mayo Sr..	6.
44 Thomas Mulfora,	4.
44 Joseph Doane,	5.
1703. Joseph Snow Jr.,	1.
1706.	Wm. Freeman,	1.
1707.	Nath’l Freeman,	1.
1717.	Edw. Knowles,	10.
1718.	Micajah Snow,	4.
1719.	Jona. Young,	2.
44 Israel Doane,	3.
1722. Sam’l Knowles Jr., 6.
1733. Sam’l Doane,	8.
44 James Rogers,	7.
1735.	Benj. Higgins,	1.
1736.	John Knowles,	1.
44 John Freeman,	3.
SELECTMEN.
ire.
1736.	Ralph Smith,	1.
1737.	Sam’l Doane,	6.
44 Sam’l Freeman Jr., 1.
1738.	John Rich,	5.
1741. Sam’l Knowles,	3.
1743.	Jno. Freeman, 2.
44 Jabez Snow Jr.,	2.
44 Zoeth Smith,	6.
44 Jona. Doane,	2.
44 Sylvs. Snow.	2.
1744.	Thos. Knowles,	3.
44 Joshua Higgins Jr., 8.
44 Jeremiah Mayo, 1.
1747. Sam’l Smith,	1.
44 Amos Knowles,	1.
44 Jona. Smith,	1.
1749.	Joshua Knowles, 2.
“ Edm. Freeman Jr., 2.
1750.	James Higgins, 7.
1752. Eben’r Higgins, 2.
1754.‘ Dan’l Doane Jr., 4.
1760.	Eben'r Atwood, 1.
44 Willard Knowles, 4.
1761.	Joseph Cole, 14.
44 Sam’l Smith 3d,	4.
1762.	Sam’l Doane Jr.,	1.
1765. Josh. Knowles,	2.
44 Jona. Higgins,	12.
1769. James Snow,	1.
1771. Simeon Doane, 6.
1773. Elisha Smith,	2.
1775. Amos Knowles Jr., 5.
1777.	Baruabas Freeman, 2.
1778.	Wm. Myrick Jr., 1.
1779.	Neh. Young.	6.
“ Nath’l Mayo,	2.
1780.	Jqna. Linuell Jr., 1.
1781.	John Doane Jr., 8.
1782.	Gideon Freeman, 2.
44 Heman Linnet, 12.
1784. Joseph Knowles, 1.
1788. Nathan Doane,	1.
44 Sam’l Higgins,	3.
1791. Joseph Pepper,	6.
1794. Hezekiah Higgins,	2.
1797. Judah Rogers2.
44 Jas. Mayo,	2.
1799. Michael Collins,	2.
1801. James Cole,	4.
*4 Sam’l Smith,	9.
1805. David Brown,	4.
180?. Obed Knowles,	9.
44 Harding Knowles,	13.
44 John Doane,	5.
1815. Elisha Mayo,	2.
1817.	Josh. Atwood,	1.
44 Freeman Knowles,	4.
1818.	Timo. Cole,	1.
44 George Clark,	2.
1819.	Josh. Higgins,	4.
1823.	Parker Brown,	4.
1824.	Sam’l Knowles,	13.
1826. Jas. H. Knowles,	5.
1830.	Cushing Horton,	1.
1831.	Barnabas Doane,	2.
44 Barn’s Freeman,	5.
1834. Noah Doane,	3.
44 Micli’l Collins,	17.
1836. David C. Atwood,	14.
44 Josh. Paine,	10.
1845.	Alvan Rogers,	4.
1846.	Zera Higgins,	11.
1848.	Heman Doane,	1.
1849.	Jesse Collins,	1.
44 Henry Harding,	2.
1852. Crowell Doane,	4.
44 Abijah Mayo,	5.
1855. Josh. Knowles,	3.
1857.	Joshua Cole,	2.
1858.	Prince S. Harding,	6.
1859.	Henry Knowles,	2.
1861. Jona. Snow,	3.
TOWN TREASURERS.
x re.
1646. Edward Bangs,	19.
1666. Daniel Doane,	9.
1676. Thomas Paine,	21.
1703. Joseph Doane,	6.
1709. John Paine,	21.
1731. Edward Knowles,	31.
1741. Sam’l Freeman,	9.
1759. Jabez Snow,	2.
Yw.
1775. Gideon Baty,	5.
1780. Richard Knowles,	3.
1783.	Isaac Pepper,	3.
1786. Sam’l Higgins,	5.
1791. Isaac Sparrow,	3.
1794. Elijah Knowles,	3.
1797. Benj Clark,	8.
1805. Eben’r Paine,	19.
1825.	George Clark,	6.
1831. Joshua Paine,	6.
1837. Sam’l Knowles,	6.
1841. Nathan S. Knowles, 5.
1846.	Joshua Paine,	1.
1847.	David Higgins,	1.
1848.	Heman Doane 2d,	16.
1646. Nicholas Snow,	Yro. 16.
1663. Mark Snow,	15.
1676. Daniel Doane,	16.
1695. Thomas Paine,	8.
1704. John Paine,	25.
1729. Joseph Doane,	14.
1743. Thos. Knowles,	13.
1746. Nath’ Freeman,	3.
TOWN CLERKS.
Yr».
1759. Jabez Snow,	2.
1761. Edw’d Knowles,	14.
1774. Gideon Baty,	5.
1779. Richard Knowles,	4.
1782. Isaac Pepper,	3.
1786. Sam’l Higgins,	5.
1790. Isaac Sparrow,	3.
1793. Elijah Knowles,	3.
ire.
1797. Benj Clark,	8.
1805. Eben’r Paine, 19.
1824. Geo. Clark,	6.
1830. Joshua Paine, 7.
1836. Sam’l Knowles, 6.
1841. Nathan S. Knowles, 5.
1847. David Higgins, 1.
1849.	Heman Doane 2d, 16.THE
ANNALS OF THE TOWN
OP
FALMOUTH.
“ The fibst commandment with peomise, which bequibes the individual to honoe bis
IMMEDIATE PABENTS WITH GBATEFUL ASSIDUITY WHILE THEY LIVE, AND WITH OBATEFUL COM-
MEMOBATION WHEN THEY ABE GONE, IS A COMMANDMENT FOB COMMUNITIES AND BACKS TO
HONOB ALL THAT WAS GOOD IN TnEIB PBOGENITOBS; AND I HAVE FULL FAITH THAT WHILE THE
New England back shall honob the vibtuks of theib ancestby, its days shall be lono
in the land.”—Rev, Leonard Bacon, D. D.
(416)Jfttsmpiion
TO MR. ROBINSON CROCKER BODFISH,
SECRETARY OF THE NEW-YORK CAPE-COD ASSOCIATION,
a descendant from one of the earliest settlers of Sandwich, whose lineage is also traced
to Robinson, the Leyden pastor, and in whose veins is, commingling, the blood of
the Nyes, the Ellises, the Dimmicks, and the Crockers; whose purity of life and
excellence of character command admiration; whose filial reverence for ancestry is
worthy of imitation; and whose disposition to encourage by generous acts the pub-
lication of the history of our native county deserves grateful acknowledgments, these
Annals of his native town are respectfully
INSCRIBED
as an expression of the kind regards of his sincere friend,
THE AUTHOR.ANNALS OF FALMOUTH,
This town was incorporated in 1686 ; but the plan-
tation at “ Sachonesit ” receives frequent mention in
earlier records; the settlement begun chiefly by fami-
lies from Barnstable, and strengthened by accessions
from Sandwich and other places, having been in pro-
gress many years. Sachonesit was the general name
applied to the township in early records;1 2 the other
Indian designations of localities, most of them proba-
bly villages, were Tateket? Wauquoit,3 Cataumut,4 * Cha-
poquitf Acapesket,6 Quisset7 * Ashimuitf Nobsque,9 and
Sippenvisset.10
Situation, Boundaries,etc.— Falmouth is the southwestern
part of the peninsula of Cape Cod, lat. 41° 34f N. and long. 70°
35' 45" W. from Greenwich ; bounded N. and N. E. by Sand-
wich ; N. W. by a small stream running from Hope Spring, at
the extreme N. point, into Cataumet or Wild Harbor; E. by
Marshpee, from which it is separated in part by Waquoit Bay;
S. by the Vineyard Sound; and W. by Buzzard’s Bay. Length,
N. and S., about 10 or 12 miles; breadth, E. and W., about 6
1	Variously spelled, — sometimes Sugkones, but generally Succonesit.
2	Between the principal village and E. Falmouth.
3	Southeastern part of the township.
4	At North Falmouth Harbor, and lying partly in Sandwich.
6 Between W. and N. Falmouth, where are remains of an Indian burial-
place.
6	We do not presume to fix this locality, concerning which there is doubt.
7	Between Falmouth town and Wools Hole.
3 Connecting with Marshpee.
•Woods Hole neighborhood.
10 Hog Island neighborhood.
VOL. ii.	53
(417)418
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
miles;1 extent about 45 square miles, — the township being of
very irregular shape. The principal village is 70 miles S. S. E.
from Boston, and 22 miles S. W. of the Court House in Barn-
stable.
Natural Divisions, etc.— A range of hills continued from
Sandwich, parallel with, and not far distant from, Buzzard’s Bay,
extends through the township on the west, terminating at
Woods Hole. These hills are, for the most part, rough and
rocky, and to a large extent covered with wood, — chiefly oak.
The land in other parts of the township is generally level, — a
light, sandy loam, though to some extent a gravelly, or clayish
loam prevails. Much of the surface is well suited for tillage,
and is remuneratively productive;2 the balance is covered with
wood, and is chiefly valuable as furnishing a good supply of fuel.
In passing from Sandwich through Pocasset, on the south side,
the borders of the last-named village insensibly connect with the
quiet village of North Falmouth, lying on, or near, Buzzard’s
Bay, and thus enjoying some conveniences of fishing, and coast-
ing facilities, and stretching along its pleasant residences contin-
uously but not densely,—its Congregational meeting-house,
school-houses, wind-mills, post-office, occasional stores, shops for
the mechanic arts, and here and there well-cultivated farms of
unpretending size, all bespeaking for the locality the credit of a
general appearance of frugal thrift and home comfort, — until,
after a ride of about four miles, the traveller enters the next
post-office division, known as West Falmouth, which is also
chiefly located on the main road from Sandwich toward the
Vineyard Sound, presenting very much the same appearance
of rural quietude and home enjoyment. This village has, in some
respects, greater resources than the former, and is settled largely
by the people who call themselves “ Friends,” whose meeting-
house, located not far from Chapoquit or Hog Island Harbor, has
for its neighbor the Methodist place of worship. Here are the
usual facilities for trade, an establishment for the manufacture of
ochres, etc. The few good farms in this part of the town are
'Extreme extent of coast in a straight line from Wood’s Hole to Marsh-
pee line, 9| miles; distance in a straight line from Falmouth wharf to
iHope Spring, 8 miles, 15 rods.
2 Statistics furnished by Rev. Mr. Lincoln in 1802, assert that, at the
time, “ More English hay is cut in this town than in any other township in
the county.” The salt-marshes, when compared with those of S. and Be.,
.are not extensive; but, in 1802, yielded about 500 tons of hay.ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
419
perhaps less remunerative in comparison with their size than the
numerous “patches of onions” that engross the attention of
many whose cultivated lands are of lesser extent.1 Attached
to both the preceding villages are farms and residences lying off
from the main road, generally in the direction of the shore.
Forests of pines and oaks adorn the distance in the opposite
direction nearly the entire xoute, and here is also a plentiful sup-
ply of granite from which exportations are sometimes made.
Leaving the bounds of the latter division, those of Falmouth
proper are passed, a short distance2 3 before entering the more com-
pact part of this the central and principal village. It occupies
chiefly a level tract of two or three miles in extent along the shore
of the Vineyard Sound, is pleasantly located, and neat and hand-
some in appearance. It has, indeed, the reputation of being one
of our handsomest New England villages. Its public buildings
are two meeting-houses,— Congregational and Methodist; — an
academy, endowed by the bequest of the late Shubael Lawrence,
Jr., with a fund of $10,000; a large edifice for the High and
Common schools; a town hall; a bank, with a capital of $100,-
000; and a Freemason’s Hall.
From this agreeable locality, passing in a southwesterly direc-
tion, the road lying parallel with the waters of the Sound and nearly
equidistant from the waters of the Bay, and extending along a
promontory of very unequal surface, but settled sparsely the
whole distance, Woods Hole is reached after four miles travel,
— the westernmost extremity of the township, near the strait8
that separates the island of Naushon4 5 * * from the main land and con-
nects Buzzard’s Bay and the Vineyard Sound. Woods Hole 4 has
1	Since the above was written, this crop, for the first time, has proved a
failure. The last two years, an insect has attacked the plant, — its depre-
dations sparing none.
2	The new cemetery at this point, is worthy of mention as betokening by
its judicious arrangement and adornment a pious reverence for the dead.
3	The current here is very rapid at the flow of tide; the passage being
narrow and the depths full of rocks; yet smaller vessels bound from New
Bedford and harbors on the Bay. to the East, or vice versa, usually pass
through this strait.
4	Naushon formerly belonged to, and was the summer resort of Gov.
Bowdoin. It makes now several fine farms. Deer are to be found here in
every covert, as also feathered game, — quails, partridges, grouse, etc.
5	Some affect the name “ Woodville,”; — a silly fancy that will not exten-
sively prevail. The designation “ Hole ” was in earlv days suggested by
the peculiarity of its surroundings and the great depth of the harbor.
From this place a regular ferry formerly connected with Holmes’ Hole,
five or six miles di| "ant; the only public arrangement at present is by steam-420
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
good harbors, known distinctively as “Little ” and “Great,” shel-
tered by points of land and Nonamessit Island. There are sev-
eral small inlets on the west side of the town, communicating
with the Bay; but, on the Sound, at “ the Hole,” a haven may
be found for vessels of the larger class. From this village, a fine
view of the Sound and of Martha’s Vineyard is obtained in one
direction, and of Buzzard’s Bay, New Bedford, Mattapoisett and
other towns in another; and Mr. Webster has said, “In point of
position and in regard to the prospect, it is the handsomest place
in these regions.”1 When the winds are favorable, the waters
are often whitened by fleets of every class and dimension.2
There is here an Episcopal church.
Returning to the central village, and then passing easterly
through Tateket in the road that leads via the Marshpee lands to
Sandwich, the traveller comes to a division of the town formerly
familiarly known as “ the East End,” but now known by its post-
office designation, Hatchville. Here, five miles from the cen-
tral village, is a Congregational meeting-house, where formerly
the minister of the town officiated a part of the time. This is a
farming district, and in olden times the fulling and cloth-dressing
boats that touch in passing between New Bedford, Holmes’ Hole, and
Edgartown.. Considerable ship-building was formerly carried on here;
and, at one time, nine ships, averaging about 350 tons each, were employed
in the whale-fishery from this port. The capital invested was about $260,-
000; the number of men engaged in the business was about 250; and the
aggregate return was: of sperm oil, 4,952 bis., or 148,560 gals.; whale oil,
275 bis., or 8,250 gals. This place, like others, has passed through business
vicissitudes, but has ever been regarded as in many respects an important
and interesting locality.
1	Mr. Webster, in his published letter to Mr. Blatchford, refers to “ Mr.
Ticknor who has passed several summers here,” as having said, “ It is most
remarkable for the uniform temperature of its atmosphere, hardly varying
a few degrees for weeks and even months in the summer. It is almost an
island.” Mr. W. also says, “ The number of vessels which pass up and
down this sound is prodigious. A hundred of them sometimes put into
Holmes’ Hole in a day, if a head-wind arise. Nearly all the coasting trade
between the East and the South goes through this passage, as do ships from
the West Indies, South America, and India. I was told that in the height
of the late Mr. Gray’s business in navigation, five of his ships from China
and Canton were in Holmes’ Hole at one time. Ships come this way to
avoid the South Shoals of Nantucket which stretch off fifty miles to the
southeast from the visible part of that vast and extensive sand-bank. Of
late years, however, since improved chronometers make shipmasters more
sure of their longitude in thick weather, it has become more usual to keep
to the eastward and make no land till they see Cape Cod.”
2	From Dec. 20, 1848, one year, 547 ships, 2,263 brigs, 11,305 schooners,
and 1,991 sloops,— 16,133 —passed the floating light stationed at Cross
Hip, Tuekemuck Shoal.ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
421
mill, which was indispensable to each town, did a large business
at the stream well known as Dexter’s River. Further on, by the
Sandwich Road, and bordering on Marshpee and Sandwich, is
the sparsely-settled neighborhood of Shumet.1 If we return
again to the site of the old East meeting-house and to the site
of the Lawrence mills on Dexter’s River, also known as Five
Mile River, and diverge to the left, or return to Tateket and there
take the Barnstable road, and then the road to Waquoit Bay,
we pass through another thriving village, formerly known as
Upper Waquoit, but of late years denominated East Falmouth.
It is a continuous settlement, lying for the most part upon the
main road, with scattered settlements at Davis’s Neck and in
other directions. Further on, in the direction of Great Neck
in Marshpee, connecting almost imperceptibly, is Waquoit.
Here and in the former village are manufacturing establishments,
on Quashnet and Dexter’s Rivers; and in the latter division
especially is activity and thrift. A Methodist meeting-house is
at East Falmouth, and a Congregational at Waquoit.
In the township are about 40 Ponds, including the salt ponds,
some of which are large. Several near the central village add
variety and beauty to the prospect. The Streams, which are
few, afford sufficient power for limited manufacturing purposes.2
The business of the town is, however, chiefly agricultural.3 Its
maritime interests have always been somewhat retarded by the
1	Corruption from Ashimuet.
2	In 1800, there were eight mills in the township, one of which'Was a
fulling-mill; the others grist-mills — the major part wind-mills. Fal-
mouth, at that time had between 200 and 300 dwellings.
3	Salt was formerly manufactured to the amount of 35,569 hu. per
annum; but that business has here, as elsewhere, declined. The fisheries
were never a very prominent business here ; and yet, in 1800, of GO vessels
owned here, of about 55 tons average, 6 were employed in the fisheries; 2
going to the Straits of Belle Isle, and 4 fishing at the Shoals. The remain-
ing 54 were all coasters, 30 or more of which were engaged in carrying lum-
ber and trading in the Southern States and West Indies. Formerly many
of the young men were occupied as mechanics, making an annual visit to
S. C. or Ga. in the Fall and returning in the latter part of Spring or in
early Summer. The results of their building contracts and labor were lucra-
tive. More recently, the supply of live-oak for the navy, by enterprising
citizens who contracted with the U. S. gov’t, gave employment to many
vessels and hands and proved a profitable business. The timber was
obtained from Ya., S. C., Ga., Flo., Ala., and perhaps other southern loca-
tions chiefly, and delivered at the several navy yards, agreeably to contract.
Whaling, pursued for a time with partial success only, has been abandoned;
and with it the manufacture of sperm candles and oil. The attempted
manufacture of glass ~^as begun with vigor, but soon abandoned.422
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
lack of good and sufficient harbors, those at Woods Hole in the
extreme southwestern part of the township being the only
exceptions.1 Orchards thrive well. Fish are abundant.2
The climate is favorable to longevity. The town has produced
its full proportion of men distinguished for enterprise, industry
and excellence of character, ar.d some whose patriotism or talents
have distinguished them.
Progress of the Town, etc.— As we have before sug-
gested, the settlement of Falmouth had been progress-
ing some years before its incorporation. In 1659,
June 7, “liberty to view and purchase a tract at Saco-
nesset” was granted to the following persons, all of
Barnstable: Thomas Hinckley, Henry Cobb, Samuel
Hinckley, John Jenkins, and Nath’l Bacon; and
Messrs. Thos. Hinckley of Be. and Richard Bourne of
Sandwich were “empowered to arrange with the
Indians for the same.” Whether any advance was
made in this direction by the gentlemen above-named,
admits of doubt; probably none, inasmuch as, in
1660-1, March 5, “ liberty to purchase lands at Saco-
nesset and adjacent ” was granted to John Howland,
Anthony Annable, Isaac Robinson, Nath’l Thomas,
Samuel Fuller, Abraham Pierce, and Peter Blossom;
and to these, as “ purchasers at Saconesset and places
adjacent, were added, June 4, Sam'l Hind ley, Matthew
Fuller, John Cooper, Ilenry Cobb, John Dunham, and
1	The mouth of Waquoit Bay is narrow, choked with sand. West of
this bay, the shore is intersected by several small outlets and inlets, but
none of them afford a good harbor. It was once supposed that a good
harbor at the central village might be obtained by cutting from the Sound
into the Pond lying not more than 200 or 300 rods S. W. by S. of the
meeting-house. This pond is £ of a mile long, and GO fathoms deep, and
is only about \ mile from the Sound, but the attempt was never seriously
made.
2	Fine trout are taken from the streams and ponds. Tautog, scippog, —
u the same,” says Mr. Webster, “ as porgee in New York,”— and bluensh are
abundant; and some parts of the township have been distinguished as fine
trailing grounds for bass. Those in pursuit of more exhilarating exercise
make a sail over to the Vineyard and try shark-fishing, or to the Nantucket
Shoals for sw^rd-fish. The eels of Waquoit cannot be excelled or equalled.ANNALS OP FALMOUTH.
423
John Jenkinsall of Be., and Samuel Fuller, William
Nelson, and Thos. Burman, all of Plymouth.” Subse-
quently the names of John Finney, Thos. Burman, of
Barnstable, and John Dunham Jr. appear.1 2 The
earliest of the Proprietors’ Records, commencing Nov.
29, 1661, contain little else than divisions and bounds
of lands as set off to the several original proprietors.
Numbers of these were Barnstable men, not as yet,
and some never, settlers at Saconesset. The first
entry in said records, date as above, is “ An Agreement
for laying out the lands in Succonessett: ”
“We whose names are hereunder written have agreed for our-
selves and for whom any of us are agents, for laying out lands
at Succonessett; First, the Neck of land lying by the Herring-
brook shall be in general; Second, Jonathan Hatch and Isaac
Robinson, because they have built their houses, shall have the
lots by their houses,3 — that is to say, Jona. Hatch shall have ten
1	As the three names in italics are those of grantees in 1659, the presump-
tion is that the first company neglected to avail themselves of the grant.
2	Whether there were two Burmans and Dunhams, or whether these
names are again mentioned to correct clerical errors, is submitted. The
name Burman is evidently the same afterwards written Bowerman, and
Bowman.
3	This seems to establish the tradition that these two men were the earliest
settlers. But, as their houses were already builded at the time of the above
writing, the tradition which fixes the period at 16G3 is in fault, — the true
time being earlier. The tradition that “Moses, son of Jonathan Hatch,
was the first white child born here, and that he received the name because
he was born among the bulrushes — or on a bed of bulrushes,” may be cor-
rect in all its parts; but we must bear in mind that this Moses was born
March 4,16G2-3, and that the family mansion had then been standing at least
] 5 months. Another version of the tradition is, that “ a company arrived
from Barnstable, 1660, and landed between Fresh and Salt Ponds where
they encamped until their houses were constructed, and the first night the
wife of Jona. Hatch was delivered of Moses, — called by that name
because born among the flags.” We have learned to be chary of traditions ;
they are often too vague and speculative to be incorporated with history;
and, if the originals be verity, they are often interpolated to make clearer
circumstances not understood or to enhance the interest of the credulous.
Another version, evidently also a modern suggestion, is, that Moses “ was
born under a boat turned keel up to constitute temporary accommodations,
in passing by water from Be. to Saconnesset.” All this might be; it might
be that, although Mr. H. had erected a house at S., he had not removed
his family, consisting of seven children before the birth of Moses, until the
time when, in transitu, this birth occurred; or it might be that he and wife
were returning from a visit to Be., when sudden indisposition made424
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
acres by his house, lying against the Neck, leaving a sufficient
way into the Neck; and Isaac Robinson shall have four acres by
his house and eight acres next adjoining to Jona. Hatch’s,
towards Pease’s land ; also, because he thought himself wronged
to be put off the Neck, we have condescended that he shall have
one acre and a half of meadow within the Great Neck toward
Pease’s land;1 Thirdly, taking a view of the land beyond them
and Pease’s land, that it will yield bat eight acres to every share,
we have laid it out by lots: John Chipman four acres, and eight
acres each to John Jenkins, James Hamblin, Win. Thomas,
Samuel Fuller, Thos. Lothrop, Anthony Annable, Peter Blossom,
Wm. Nelson, James Cobb, Samuel Hinckley, and Thomas Ewer,
— all which lots butt upon the Bay or Beach and run to the
hill, leaving a sufficient way; Fourthly, because we question
whether we shall get water upon these lots, we have laid out
four acres to a share along by the pond; also by lots, four acres
to each of the above, except to Wm. Nelson and John Chipman,
who have two each, — a sufficient way to be left along by the
pond-side about or below the houses ;2 Fifthly, it is also agreed
that the purchasers shall not keep above twenty head of cattle
each upon the Great Neck, for a share; Sixthly, we have laid
out other lands next to Jonathan Hatch’s ground, lying upon
the sea and running 200 rods toward the woods, 20 acres to a
share, in which division Isaac Robinson is included.” This
“ work is concluded and the agreement duly signed, Dec. 3, 1661,
by Thomas Lothrop, Isaac Robinson (acting for Capt. Thomas,
who also drew lots for goodman Annable), Jonathan Hatch,
James Hamblin, Thomas Ewer (for myself and John Chipman),
Peter Blossom, James Cobb, William Nelson, Samuel Hinckley
(acting for myself and John Jenkins).”
The Colony laws required that no settlement be
made remote from a place of public worship unless the
impromptu arrangements necessary ; but, looking at the true date of birth
and the evidence of the existence of the domicile, we are inclined to the
opinion that the pristine tradition was simply that the natural and luxuri-
ant growth of flags or rushes around the new home suggested the name.
1	Perhaps the land of an Indian by the name of Pea, or Peas; but not
certain, as there have been English residents here by the name of Pease.
2	Mr. Charles Jenkins, deceased, who commendably bestowed much atten-
tion to an examination of the records with a view to the history of his
native town, has said, “ This way was from the street to the fresh pond,
lying on the south side of the burial-place,—the way, doubtless, originally
reserved for a town watering-place.”ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
425
settlers be strong enough to support a minister of the
gospel; and the Court now enacted, March, 1663,
a that it be commended to the settlers at Saconessett
to apply themselves in some effectual way for the
increase of their numbers ” that “ they may carry on
things to their better satisfaction both in civil and
religious respects; especially that they endeavor to
procure an able, godly man for the dispensing of Cod’s
word amongst them; and, for their quickening and
encouragement, the Court doth order that all lands
within the place, though not inhabited, shall be liable
to be rated in some measure of proportion for the
defraying of such charges as shall necessarily arise
concerning the premises.” But “Saconesset not being
yet strong enough to stand alone,” it was further
“ ordered by the Court that Saconessett shall for the
present belong to Barnstable.”
That some progress was being made, and that some
importance was beginning to attach to the settlement
even as thoroughfare to the adjacent islands, is indicated
by the fact that, Feb. 7, 1664-5, Mr. Isaac Robinson
was “ approved and allowed by the Court to keep an
ordinary at Saconesset for the entertainment of stran-
gers,— in regard that it doth appear that there is a
great recourse to and fro by travellers to Martha’s
Vineyard, Nantucket, etc.”1 As progress is made in the
settlement of the plantation, so the concomitants of
civilization that ever seem to forbid the hope of
finding any community perfect, appear in the indict-
ment of two 3'oung men, sons of leading settlers, “for
lasciviousness with the wife of---” one whose family
1 The tendency of emigration in the direction of these islands was early
manifest. In 16 73, Mr. Robinson himself was proprietor’s clerk at Tisbury,
and 1678-84 wa selectman. He continued to reside there in 1701.
VOL. II.
54426
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
nams probably does not, at the time of this writing,
survive in Falmouth. In 1668, William Gifford,1
Thomas Lewis and John Jenkins2 became “inhabitants
of Succonessit.”
In 1677, “ the company agreed, July 23, to lay out other lands
— lo’s of 60 acres upland to a share; also meadows.” John
Howland and Thos. Lothrop acting for the company, appointed
Bernard Lambert, William Gifford, and John Smith, to lay out
the lots.3 The lands in the vicinity of the first purchase being
taken, the inhabitants and the proprietors agreed to the laying
out of “ lands at Woods Hole, Little Harbor, — to be assigned
equally to every purchaser according to his proportion; beginning
at the south end of the Little Neck and running W. by N. to
1	William Gifford, early in Sandwich, had a son Christopher July
1G58. Christopher was at Tateket as early as 1690. The S. records men-
tion Moriba.h, the wife of Christopher, and subsequently another by the name
of Deborah; these names may have been designed for the same person, the
issue being Maribah Oct. 30,1687; a daughter, probably Alice, Sept. 17,1689;
Christopher May 5, 1687, d. inf.; Enos Feb. 1, 1693-4; Mary Oct. 6, 1695;
Christopher April 15, 1698; and Deborah Feb. 2, 1700. But as a “ Chris-
topher Gifford of Conway m Mary Burgess of S. 1692,” we cannot be cer-
tain that two distinct families are not thus confounded. There was also a
John in Sandwich early, whose children were Elisa. 12: 25: 1654-5;
Sami Mar. 12, 16G6; John June 12, 1668; Mary Oct. 9, 1669; Grace
Aug. 7, 1671; William 7: 3: 1673; Yelverton Ap. 22, 1676; and Josiah
Feb. 27, 1681. Samuel, of S., m. Jane Loring Nov. 2, 1699, who d. same
year, and had Josiah Feb. 12, 1700-1, by Joanna. John m. Desire
Sprague Nov. 24, 1696. William, of S., m. Elisa. Wheaton Mar. 13,
1701-2, and had Benjamin Aug. 20, 1703; Nathan Feb. 16, 1704-5; and
Elisa. May 31, 1710. William, of S. by w. Mary, had Jona. May 4,
1684; and James Mar. 10, 1685-6. Jonathan, of S., who d. Feb. 10,
1734-5, had by w. Lydia, Maria Oct. 16, 1709; Peleg Aug. 14,1711;
Rebecca Sept. 18, 1713; Bethia July 1, 1715; Silas Feb. 14, 1716-17;
Hannah Mir. 10, 1719; and Anna Aug. 4, 1721. James, of S., m.
Deborah Lewis Mar. 30, 1710, and had Dinah Oct. 29, 1712, who m. John
Atkins Feb. 13, 1729; Remember 1714; Sarah 1716; James 1717;
Cornelius Feb. 9, 1718; Silvanus Oct. 18, 1720; Mary 1722; Deborah
1724; George 1726 ; Thomas 1728; and Eleanor 1730, who m. William
Chanter Dec. 4, 1747. JosiAn, of S., m. Mercy Chadwick Mar. 11,
1714-15, and had Rhoda 1716; John 1717; Abigail 1718; Sami 1721;
Christopher 1722, whom. Remember Nye Nov. 10, 1748; Hannah 1727,
who prob. m. Hoxie; and Benj. 1732. Josiah Jr., of S., m. Elisa. Nye
June 21, 1750, and had Sami Mar. 30, 1751, who prob. m. Anne Tupper;
Lemuel Dec. 1, 1752; Jane 1754; Joseph 1756; and Abigail 1758.
2	Although Mr. Jenkins is mentioned as becoming an “ inhabitant ” at
this time, we have doubts whether he had at the time taken up his abode
here. Subsequent records seem to disprove it.
8 The original company had probably secured from the natives, a tract
bordering on the coast, and extending from Woods Hole to Five-mile River,
and extending inland 4 or 5 miles.ANNALS OP FALMOUTH.
427
the Great Harbor. Parallel to this were twelve other strips of
land, averaging about 7 rods in width, numbered from 1 to 13, all
assigned as follows: viz., to Moses Rowley Sr., Joseph Hull,
Thos. Griffin, John Robinson, Sam’l Tilly, Nathaniel SkifE
Thomas Johnson, William Gifford, Thomas Lewis, John Jenkins,
Jonathan Hatch Sr., William Weeks, and Thomas Ewer. There
were laid out 10 acres to a share, in Great Neck, to the same
individuals.1 A blacksmith being indispensable to the necessities
of the settlers at Woods Hole, “ 12 acres of upland with the
marsh thereabout,” was laid out and appropriated “ to encourage
a smith to come and settle among us.”
In 1678, lands were laid out at Oyster Pond; also at Hog
Island, and Great Sipperwisset, where the early settlers were
William Gifford Sr., William Gifford Jr., John Weeks and
William Weeks.
In 1679, an Indian deed, bearing date Jan. 15, appears,
signed by “Job Notantico, Indian of Suckanessett,” confirmatory
of the proprietors’ early purchase of Woods Hole.2 James
Percival’s lands were bounded this year. The inhabitants were
held by the Court “ liable to do such duty at Suckanessett as is
requisite to be performed for the good of that Society there.”
“The line between Sandwich and Suckanessett Village” was
defined: “Beginning at a place commonly called Hope’s Spring
a little to the southward of Pocasset Neck; thence easterly into
the woods, being Suckanesset’s northerly bounds, etc., to the
Christian Indian’s lands.”
1	The lots are thus described: “ The first lies in the Neck,— being on the
foot-path that runs through the neck, and S. E. toward the Sound; ” then
“ three lots lying contiguous; ” then six lots on the E. side of Little Harbor,
— the first runs E. by N., 4 score long and 20 rods broad, and on that
range lies six lots, the last joining to the Dutchman’s Pond; then three lots
at Nobsque Point,— 26 rods broad, running to the pond, and also to the
sea; the 12th lot being 20 rods broad, and 4 score long; the 13th lies
beyond Ackapasket and butts on the sea.”
2	“ To all people to whom these presents shall come: Job Notantico, son
of Thos. Notantico, Indian of Suckanesset in the Government of New
Plymouth, sendeth greeting, etc. Know ye that I, the said Job, understand-
ing that my father, the said Notantico, Sachem, many years since, about or
before the beginning of the Suckannessett plantation, did freely and abso-
lutely grant and give unto Jonathan Hatch Sr., of the said S., all that tract,
or neck, commonly called Woods Hole Neck, excepting a part which he, the
said Notantico reserved for himself1, which afterwards he exchanged with
Suckannesset men, and accepted in lieu thereof 40 acres at little Sipper-
wisset with liberty to cut sticks and wood on the commons, the fins and tails
of whales cast ashore on the neck to be mine,” etc. This deed was witnessed
by Shearjashub Bourne and Batl: sheba Bourne, and “ acknowledged by
Job Notantico, alias Attuckoo,” before “ Thomas Hinckley, Assistt.”428
H .STORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1681, July 13, it was “ordered by the Court and
granted, that the people and Society of Saconesset do
set apart about 30 acres of upland with a proportion-
ate parcel of meadow thereunto, as may be suitable,
for the help and encouragement of such fit person o
persons as doth or may be helpful to them in teachin^
the good word of God amongst them, and be in perpe-
tuity for such an end successively.”
At what time the Friends, or Quakers, commenced,
their career here as a distinct denomination, or society,
it is difficult to determine; but, about 1685, William
Gifford and Robert Harper are found to be recognized
as Quakers. Their meeting was probably at West
Falmouth. It has been conjectured that Isaac Robinson
having embraced some of the peculiarities of that sect
before leaving Barnstable, and being a prominent and
influential man here, were considerations that led
Quakers to look in this direction as favorable to quiet
and the enjoyment and establishment of their worship.
Liberty was granted at this time, and in successive
years, to persons “ to take up land ” in the eastern
section of the township; viz., to Robert Harper,1
James Percival, Joseph Hull, John Weeks,2 Joseph
Hatch, Moses Rowley Sr., James Lewis,3 and Thomas
Creppan Sr.
In 1686, June 4, the plantation received full incor-
poration as a Township by the name of Falmouth.
In 1687, June 6, the following action of the town is
recorded: —
“We, the inhabitants of Suekanessett, desirous of upholding
and maintaining to our ability the public preaching of the word
1	Land to Robert Harper was "ranted April 1, 1685.
2	John Weeks was a large land-holder.
3	Jamei Lewis *• hath taken his at the N. side of the Spruce-swamp, and
to join the Indian line that comes from the head of Five-mile River, to
Tateket.”ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
429
of God among us, but considering the smallness of our people,
do therefore think it to be necessary for us to provide and set
apart some lands and meadow or marsh that may be an encour-
agement and help to any fit person that is, or may be, helpful to
us, or our posterity after us, in that good work; and having
obtained some help from the Court to encourage us in such a
good work, — as appears on record bearing date the 13th July,
1681; and having understood that the first purchasers of the
lands here in Suckanesset were not unmindful of such a thing,
but did leave a 20 acre lot void at that time, the which we will
and are minded to lay for such an end; and having obtained of
the proprietors of the lands here, at a general meeting in Sucka-
nesset, that Jonathan Dunham should have ten acres of land
and all the skirts of marsh or meadow about the Bass Pond, and
all the marsh on the N. W. side of Quanamut, as appears bearing
date the 23d July, 1677, and now having obtained from the said
Dunham, by purchase, all the right or interest he had in Sucka-
nesset, of lands, houses, marsh, and meadow; Do, therefore
agree: That the lands aforesaid — that is to say, 40 acres of
upland in the 20 acre lots, and half a share of marsh-meadow
lying at Great Seperwisset, and a dwelling-house and about two
acres of upland adjoining to it, with all the skirts of marsh or
meadow-ground about the Bass Pond, or on Quanaumet Neck
that was not divided to men’s lots, shall be and remain to be for-
ever improved for the help and encouragement of any fit person
that is, or may be, employed in teaching the good word of God
among us, or our posterity after us, and to be perpetually to such
an end, successively, without any alteration or change, forever?
The same year, the first public road was laid out;
viz.: “ a king’s-highway, forty feet wide, through the
land that was Thos. Johnson’s to the Little Harbor,
and from the said land to Joseph Hatch’s, where the
way now goes, and so through to the Five-mile River.”
In 1688, lands were laid out to Thomas Bowerman.
In 1689, occurred the first election of deputies,
when, in Dec., John Robinson was elected. This year,
Feb. 1, “a certain tract of land,”—the same that is
now in part, North Falmouth, — “granted to John430
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
and Ebenezer Nye,1 sons of Benjamin of Sandwich,”
was confirmed by “Wm. Bradford, son and heir of
Gov. B.”2
In 1690, a general meeting of the proprietors was
held at the house of Jonathan Hatch, and it was
“ ordered that all the undivided lands within said Suc-
kanesset be laid out in lots and allotments as soon as
convenient. John Jenkins was appointed agent to
obtain suitable persons to lay out the said lands, and
employed William Wyatt and Thomas Bowerman.
The following year, —
March, 1691, the duty was ably performed, and the
bounds accurately described ; 1st, the vacant lands at
Wood’s Hole ; 2d, the high lands in the region of Hog
Island ; and 3d, the Plain lands.3 Still, in this “ final
1	These were the first settlers at North Falmouth. Their grant, however,
covered but a small part of the territory, being less than 200 acres. A gen-
eral division of the lands and settlement here, did not take place until much
later. But it is to be remarked that the deed given by Mr. Bradford rep-
resents said John and Ebenezer as having been “ many years in quiet and
peaceable possession.”
2	The deed describes the lands as “ at a place called Mayhagansett, adja-
cent to Saconesset. Bounds: northerly beginning at a small harbor or
cove running up into the meadow; and so bounded by the salt water from
that harbor unto a high hid, being a ditch cut in the side of the hill; and
easterly from the said hill on a straight line to a small orchard, and on the
same line to the hills ; and southerly from another harbor or cove that runs
up between the lands of said John and Ebenezer Nye, and the lands now
in occupation or tenure of Daniel Butler, and so extending, as that river
runs, which issues into that harbor, until it comes near the mouth in which
that river issues; and so on a straight line southerly up to the hill; and
bounded also by the salt-water from the first-mentioned harbor unto the
last-mentioned harbor between their lands and the lands in occupation of
the said Daniel Butler.” This deed, which explains the history of Gov.
Bradford's title, is wit. by John Hathaway Sr., Roland Cotton, and Wm.
Bassett, and was ack. before “ Thos. Hinckley, of His Majesty’s Council.”
8 These were included “ within a line running S. W. and by S. —that is,
the range from the River-head to Tateket, and butting on the lands of
Christopher Gifford and the hills; and a N. N. E. line from a great rock,
which is the range of the hill lots.” There being no public way laid out,
every one was to have liberty of all convenient cart-ways; but gates and
bars erected for the convenience of the owners of lands must not be left
open. Five-mile River, now known as Dexter’s River, —the head of said
river being a swamp about 40 or 50 rods from Coonemesset Pond, formed
the N. E. boundary of the original township. The northern boundary
extended on a straight line from this point to “ a large rock ” on the N. sideANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
431
division/’ a reserve was made of certain meadow-lands,
“ to be sold and the money to be for the use of the
inhabitants, as a majority shall agree.” This year
land was granted to Wm. Wyatt. Moses Rowley took
lands and settled at Quisset. Lands at the Plains
were granted to Jno. Weeks, Wm. Weeks, and others.
Thomas Parker, Joseph Parker, Benj. Hatch, Moses
Hatch, Wm. Gifford, John Gifford, Jonathan Hatch,
and Christopher Gifford, also “ took lands.”
Except as we gather from the Proprietor’s records
and from Colonial records, the history of the town
is, for many years, almost as destitute of interest
as if an entire blank. It has been seen that for
municipal purposes, and for the due observance of
public worship, the plantation was, by order of Court,
associated with Barnstable many years; during which
time it had been necessary to travel fifteen miles to
West Barnstable to attend Sunday service.
In 1700,“ let well enough alone ” seems to have been
ignored by the voters, and an attempt was made to re-
duce the records to order. Thomas Lewis was an ex-
pert chirographer, a systematic registrar, and had
of Hog Island Harbor, known as Chapoquoit Rock. When this boundary
was established, the line ran, as expressed, “ from the edge of one high hill
to another.” Several years after, a controversy arose respecting the line.
These hills were long and of gradual ascent; and by one party it was con-
tended that the edge of the hills was at their base; the other maintained
that the edge was at the top. An appeal was finally made to an old Indian
who had said he could tell them all about the line which, he averred, ran
neither at the top nor at the base, but by a certain great rock about half-
way between the supposed lines. To this it was objected, “ There is no
such rock.” “ Well,” said the Indian, “ I will show it to you.” Leading
to a large pile of decayed brushwood, he said, “ There is the rock. When
the bounds were established, our people began, and were in the habit after-
ward to throw, each of them, whenever they passed this way, a stick
upon the rock’ as a token of consent, — renewing the act for a long series
of years. Remove these boughs, and you will find the rock.” It was
done; and the denudation settled the controversy. This Indian, Jehu
Horton, lived to a very great age, and related to a lad of 16, who was an
octogenarian in 1850, many reminiscences of long by-gone days. For the
substance of this anecdote, we are indebted to notes of Mr. Chs. Jenkins,
who obtained it from Mi*. Prince Gifford.432
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
probably long acted in the capacity which the record of
this last year of the century assigns him: " At a meet-
ing of the proprietors of the lands at Suckanesset, alias
Falmouth, March 19, the proprietors, by vote, made
choice of Thomas Lewis to be their clerk.” This selec-
tion was judicious. They must needs, however, — now
that probably all legal inhabitants had become proprie-
tors,— determine on serious changes: "Ordered that
all the records of lands be transcribed from the town
book, and recorded in a new one; and that Moses
Hatch and Thos. Bowerman perform this duty and be
paid for their services.” Accordingly we find, in the
oldest book extant, — following a reservation of blank
leaves, intended, no doubt, for what was never written
upon them, — records dating from 1690, consisting
chiefly of divisions and bounds of lands, and being,
without doubt, so far, a faithful transcript from the
town’s "old book.” The sapient scribes say, at the
opening, that they " have selected from the old book all
that teas needful.” We are not told what was the fate of
the primitive records; they were probably destroyed;
they are certainly lost; and with them is gone, as we
apprehend, much that would have been of interest to
the antiquarian and historian, leaving even the descent
of families perplexed. The municipal details were
consigned to oblivion, and the little that can now be
recovered must be gleaned from colonial records, or con-
temporaneous correspondence and the archives of
other towns or churches. Fragmentary items found
here and there, afford but very limited relief to the
vacuum. Of the action of this town, in the French war,
for instance, the Colonial Records inform us; and assure
us that although this town was not required to bear a
distinguished part in military affairs, it paid its propor-
tion of the levy, whilst the " one man ” called for, wasANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
433
promptly despatched with “ well-fixed gun, sword or
hatchet, horn or cartouch-box, suitable ammunition,
and knapsack.” At what time Mr. Samuel Shiverick:
came, it is impossible to say; probably some years
before we find any mention of him in the Records.
He appears, in 1700, to have been some time an inhab-
itant. The town, April 7, voted him £15; and Mr.
Shiverick thereupon “ quit-claimed all dues for salary
promised when he came here.”1 The tax assessed, Oct.
25, was £19.5, viz.: for Mr. Shiverick, £15; for repair-
ing the pound, £2.5; for assessors, £1.10; and for
Sylv. Hatch, 10s. At this date, the first original sur-
viving book of town records was begun.2
In 1701, Mar. 25, every housekeeper was required “to kill 6
old, or 12 young blackbirds, or 4 jays, by the 15th of June next,
and deliver the same to the selectmen; in default thereof to pay
3s. additional tax.”
The situation of Mr. Shiverick, we fear, was not so
pleasant as it should have been. Whether, he being
the minister of the town, its action was sometimes
embarrassed by a preponderance of adverse votes
swollen by Quaker suffrage, does not clearly appear;
but, Aug. 6, it was “ voted to look out for a fit person
to preach the word of God, and to keep school; ” and
then, Dec. 21, “ the town being orderly warned and
assembled together, it was voted that Mr. Samuel
1	Judge Sewell’s notes state that “ Rev. Samuel Shiverick was a Hugue-
not.”
2	The first page opens thus: “ This is Falmouth Town Book; 6 shilling
cost. S. P., To record all marriages, births, and business, and the marks of
cattle, and all that is needful to be taken out of the old book and placed in
this, with all town-business that concerns the town, but not lands. Begins
the 25th day of October, 1700.” If any one, however, shall wish hereafter
to consult these early records, made by successive clerks, let him be advised
that he will find a singular conglomeration of events and dates,—ear-
marks of sheep and cattle, town meetings, publishments and marriages,
accounts and births, — often, the last first and the first last — in some
instances, on the same page, records varying many years in date, even 30
or 40.
VOL. II.
55434
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Shiverick is none of this town’s minister.” In 1702,
“the inhabitants agree, in consideration of the low
estate of Mr. Shiverick, and his yearly maintenance
not being paid to him, that a rate of £15 shall be
made for his relief; ” and, three months after, at a
town-meeting, “ said meeting did then agree that they
will not employ Mr. Samuel Shiverick any more to
preach to them, and did choose Mr. Joseph Parker to
tell him of it; also chose Mr. Thomas Bowerman and
Mr. Joseph Parker to reckon and take account with
him for what he has done the last summer and this
winter.”
In 1703, it was “ voted to pay John Robinson 2d. for nails, and
Thos. Bassett 4s. for work about the town-house.”1
In 1704, the first reference is made to “ the new pur-
chase.” At a meeting, Aug. 22, Mr. Wm. Bassett being
moderator, “it was voted that Eben’r Nye, Philip
Dexter, Benjamin Nye Sr., Richard Landers, Stephen
Harper, Benj. Lewis, son of James, Jona. Hatch Jr.,
Jona. Johnson, Nathan Rowley, Joseph Hatch Jr.,
Benj. Nye Jr., Gideon Gifford, and Wm. Johnson, hav-
ing formerly paid their equal part of the purchase of
the last addition of lands called the new purchase, on
the borders of Sandwich, — purchased by Thomas
Bowerman and Wm. Gifford, as agents for said pro-
prietors who were not of the ancient proprietors, shall
have each of them their equal part and right in all
the said lands with all the old proprietors that have
paid, or shall pay, their part of said purchase of lands.”
Isaac Green was admitted a proprietor. John Jenkins
1 This is the first intimation of the existence of such a building; and
whether it was an edifice that had been erected for the town’s convenience
in transacting public business, and what was its size, form, or location ; or
whether it was what is ordinarily called a “ meeting-house,” or perhaps
“ parsonage,” we are not informed.ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
435
“of Barnstable” is mentioned as a proprietor; and
reference is made to “ Hope Lothrop’s lands.”
It was “ voted to apply to Mr. Russel of Barnstable
and Mr. Rowland Cotton of Sandwich, for assistance
in getting a minister.” It was also voted, Oct. 15, to
procure “ window shutters for the 4 lower windows of
the meeting-house.”1 It was also “ voted to lay a tax
of £42,” of which sum £11 was to pay a debt con-
tracted by the town; the balance was for the county
tax and town purposes. The new levy was denounced
by the minority as “ oppressive.” A “ retrenchment
party ” was soon recognized, and their influence, it
may be presumed, was not abated by an appropriation
also made, this year, “ for minister’s salary.” It was
contended that the meeting, Oct. 15, was not legally
warned, and that it was thinly attended; and a deter-
mination was expressed, “ because of inability to pay
the taxes, and the great oppression that is thence
like to be brought upon the poor,” to resist the
collection.
In 1705, Feb. 2, it was “voted to pay to Mr.
Shiverick, in his poverty, £4 ;” but, much disturbance
continued, party spirit was rampant, and, April 17, it
was “ voted that the minister’s salary ordered to be
raised Oct. 15, 1704, be recomidered” and that the
doings of former meetings “ shall now end, and
from henceforth be of no force, or effect.” A difficulty
here, however, presented itself; the taxes ordered had
already been assessed; the bills were in the hands of
the constable; and the county-tax could not possibly
be evaded. It was, therefore, finally “voted to pay
the constable one-half the tax set against our names
1 This house is, doubtless, that before called “ the town-house; ” and we
gain some little insight of its arrangements, — 4 windows below.436	HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE GOTJNTY
respectively, he to pay the county-tax first, and then
the balance to the selectmen; ” also “ to discharge the
constable from the duty of collecting more.” Mr.
Timothy Robinson was, moreover, “ appointed agent
for the town, to apply to the Court of General Sessions
for an abatement of what the Court has assessed on
the town.” All this certainly implies a heterogeneous
state of society, and its discordant materials are notice-
able for a long time.
A portion of the inhabitants were for securing and
Supporting a stated ministry; others opposed it; the
public law, however, left no alternative, and, Aug.
14, it was “ voted that Mr. John Gore be the minister
of the town, and that Joseph Ha*tch and Timothy
Robinson be agents to agree with Mr. Shiverick con-
cerning his demands, — also to forbid his preaching
any more on the town’s account.”
In 1707, Feb. 27, there is evidence of the discomfit-
ure of the “ retrenchment party,” and of a gradually
returning better state of things. Application was
made to Rev. Joseph Metcalfe to preach as a candidate
for settlement; and, May 19, by advice of Revs. Jona.
Russell, Roland Cotton and Nathaniel Stone, he was
called to assume the permanent duties of the minis-
try.1 The letter addressed to Mr. M. by the committee,
oflered “ £160 settlement, 2 good cows, from 10 to 20
cords of wood, as his exigencies might require, and
£40 salary for the first three years, then £45, and
£50 from the 7th year, then to be annually increased
in proportion to the increase of ratable property
until it amount to £70; he to build upon the town’s
land; the town to dig and stone his well; the town to
1 Not called to the pastorate, fbr the reason that there was as yet no
church organized. Mr. M. was from Dedham, and grad. H. C. 1703.ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
437
have the refusal of the property in case he sells, and
in case of his decease, his administrators to convey to
the town the fifty-acre lot on which he builds with the
improvements, allowing the town £60 for the lot, his
estate to be paid the balance of the value as estimated
by indifferent persons.” Aug. 22, Mr. Metcalfe returned
the following answer :
“ To John Robinson, Melatiah Bourne, Moses Hatch, Joseph
Parker, and Samuel Lewis:
“Gentlemen: This is to intimate and manifest my grateful
acceptance of your above-written proposals, in all respects clos-
ing and complying with and consenting unto, and granting the
conditions annexed thereunto as yourselves have now expressed
the same: Only this exception I must make, That I will appro-
priate so much time as necessary journeys and yearly visits shall
require, — a very reasonable and necessary privilege, — without
being thought an offender, though I provide no one to supply
my absence.
(Signed,)	“ J. Metcalfe.”
We are glad to find that Rev. Mr. Shiverick was not
forgotten; Maj. Bassett was appointed by the town,
Aug. 26, “ to carry a petition to the General Court for
help out of the public treasury, in getting a minister,
and help in supporting our ancient minister and family”
Relating to the succeeding year, we gather the fol-
lowing from the records of the Barnstable Church:
“ 1708, Oct. 10. The following persons signified to the Church
in Barnstable their desire to be dismissed to the work of gather-
ing into a church estate in Falmouth; Whereupon, voted, that
according to our best observation the conversation of these per-
sons has been agreeable to their profession; and we do, therefore,
recommend them to the great and good work of forming and
organizing a church, which they are upon, and therein unto the
grace of our Lord Jesus Christ we commend them, viz.:
Samuel Shiverick Sr.,1
*Mr. Shiverick, still retaining his connection with the Barnstable
Church, but having labored here for years as a preacher and teacher, had
now probably grown old; but he is represented as having been “ a devoted,
gifted, pious man.”438
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
John Robinson and Elisa., his wife,1
John Davis and Hannah, his wife,2 *
Moses Hatch and Elisa., his wife,8
Thomas Parker and Mary, his wife,4
Joseph Parker and Mercy, his wife,
Aaron Rowley and Mary, his wife,5
Anna, wife of Joseph Hatch,
Alice, wife of Benj. Hatch,
Mary, wife of Wm. Johnson,6
Hannah, wife of Benj. Lewis,7
Lydia, wife of Samuel Hatch,
Bethia, wife of Joseph Robinson. —Amen.
The above persons were living in Falmouth.8
(Signed,) “Jonathan Russell,
Pastor with the consent of the brethren.”
In 1709, as appears by the records of the Friends’
monthly meeting at Sandwich, a meeting for discipline
was established here; a meeting for worship had
existed many years.
In 1711, Mr. Metcalfe, March 22, released £60 of
his back salary.
In 1712, June 3, at a proprietors’ meeting of the
old and new purchasers, Maj. Win. Bassett, moderator,
and Joseph Parker, clerk, the northeast part of the
township, included in what was denominated the new
purchase, was ordered to be laid out;9 and it was
1 The Robinsons of this town, are descended from the Pilgrim Pastor
at Leyden.
8 John Davis was grandson of Dolor.
8 Moses Hatch was son of Jonathan, and had brs. Benj. and Samuel.
4 Thomas and Joseph Parker were the ancestors of those of the
name here, supposed to be the sons of Robert, who m. Patience Cobb,
and grandson of William.
6	Aaron Rowley was s. of Moses who m. Elisa. Fuller 1652.
6	William Johnson, prob. s. of Thomas, who was in Sandwich early.
7	Benj. Lewis was grandson of George, and was ancestor of those of the
family name here.
8	Whilst those of the Barnstable Church probably formed the nucleus
of the Falmouth Church, there were, doubtless, others settled here who
united in the organization.
9	Extending from a line from Hog Island Harbor, or West Falmouth, to
the head of Five-mile River, or Cooneinessett Pond; North to SandwichANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
439
“voted that Lt. Jona. Hatch have one equal share
with the other proprietors on account of former dis-
bursements in purchasing the rights of Ceapish, In-
dian.” Thomas Bowerman and Philip Dexter were
appointed to lay out said lands, so much as is conven-
ient and needful, in lots,—regard to be had to accom-
modating each lot with water and convenient ways;
and were to associate with them, in the performance
of the duty, some suitable person. They called to
their aid Mr. Samuel Jennings of Sandwich, — an ac-
complished surveyor and good scholar, whose able and
neatly-prepared report of the proceedings amply jus-
tify the encomium we bestow. The other proprietors
mentioned, were,
Nathan Rowley,
Thomas Parker,
John Dimmick,
Benj. Burgess,
John Gifford,
Ezra Bourne,
Nathan Fish,
John Jenkins,
Thos. Crocker,
Richard Landers,
Judah Butler,
Joseph Bourne,
Joshua Bourne,
John Nye,
Benj. Hatch,
John Otis.
These lots were laid out, April 10,1713.1 The same
line; W. to the grant previously made to the settlers at N. Falmouth; and
from Five-mile River E. to the Marshpee’s lands.”
1A reservation was made “ for all the proprietors ” of “ the privilege of
digging for clay to make brick, near the path that goes from Isaac Robin-
son’s to Benj. Nye’s, at a certain place where the people are wont to dig,”
in the centre of the forest between E. and N. Falmouth, with the right of
way. Excavations are now to be seen there, on the margin of a swamp
on the high ground. In the report, “ sheep-pasture lots ” are mentioned.
The report says: “ First we ran a range through the purchase about N. E.
by N., and S. W. and by S., beginning at the westward of a little swamp
near the line that divides the old purchase from the new, and so runs N. W.
and by N. to Sandwich line. The abovesaid range is the westerly bound of a
vacancy of 3 rods wide left for a way for the proprietor’s use, and this way
divides the purchase into two parts, each of which is a particular allotment;
and that allotment on the westerly side of said way we denominate the
hill-lots, and the other the plain-lots. We began to lay out lots, near the
line between S. and F., butting the easterly ends of them all on the afore-
said way, the westerly ends to extend to the utmost bounds of the pur-
chase. The ranges of all these hill-lots run lengthways, W. N. W., from
the aforesaid way down toward the Bay or salt water.” The laying out
of the plain-lots is equally well defined; as are also the individual assign-
ments m both allotments.440
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
year, June 8, an appropriation of £40 was made by
the General Court to aid the town in building a meet-
ing-house.
In 1714, to Philip Dexter, £30 was voted “for his
part of the mill and the land the pond covers.” Daniel
Legg is mentioned as the schoolmaster this and sub-
sequent years.
In 1715, “it was agreed to build a new meeting-
house 42 feet square, to stand on the same lot where
the old one does, and to be for the town’s use in public
worship and to meet in open town meetings; ” but,
subsequently, *it was determined that the proposed
new house shall be of lesser dimensions, — “the old
house to be improved to build the new.” William
Green and* Elna than Nye entered their dissent to the
town’s proceedings. Finally, it was arranged “ to build
30 X 34, 18 to roof, flat as convenient, and finish only
the outside walls, but build the ground floor and pulpit
as soon as convenient.” The £40 appropriated by
the Province was obtained. A diversity of opinion
still existed in regard to many of the details, — some
desiring seats, others pew-spots. It was referred to a
committee authorized “ to seat the housfe according to
their best judgment.” Part was provided with seats,
and other parts chalked off for pews,— the spots to
be sold to the highest bidder, each purchaser to build
his pew at his own expense and suited to his own
taste.
In 1716, controversies having arisen about the
bounds between this town and Barnstable, a meeting
was held, June 28, Rev. Mr. Metcalfe presiding, and it
was agreed that three men be mutually elected to run
the line from Tateket to the head of the river, and
from theme to Shepoquoit Rock, and thus determineANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
441
all difficulties.1 So great was the delay in building
arrangements, that the lot for the meeting-house was
not defined until this year, when it was a ordered that
the meeting-house lot and the training-field be laid
out in connection with the burying-ground.”2 It was
“ ordered that Hannah Sargent be engaged this year
as school-dame, and that <£12 and diet per annum be
allowed for her services, — only the agents shall obtain
her as much cheaper as they can; the school to be
settled in the four quarters of the town.” The town,
having long since agreed to pay its proportion with
Sandwich and Barnstable of a bounty of £20 for the
head of each wolf taken, was now called on to pay for
two killed by Sandwich men.
In 1717, the new meeting-house was so far com-
pleted that it was “ ordered that the seats be chalked
out, and bids received for spots for pews.”
In 1718, Dec. 16, Hannah Sargent was again in requisition as
school-dame; also some one to sweep the meeting-house the
ensuing year. Not succeeding in obtaining the services of Miss
Sargent as school-mistress, Isaac Green and Timothy Robinson
were appointed at the next meeting “ to procure a school-master
or mistress, at a salary not exceeding £12 per annum and diet.”
In 1719, much complaint was made of the miller. The town
had previously some difficulty with this Mr. Philip Dexter; but,
as he had no competitor, and the people were dependent on his
mill, the town, Oct. 14, appointed Ens. Parker and Timothy
1	The persons selected to compose all disputes touching the bounds, were
two from Be., viz.: Lt. Eben. Lewis and Mr. John Jenkins; and Capt.
Hope Lothrop of this town; but, notwithstanding, a suit was brought by
one of these, before the close of the year, to determine where Tateket is,
and where is the head of Five-mile River. Therefore, at a town-meeting,
Dec. 81, Joseph Parker was appointed agent to appear and defend the
inhabitants of Falmouth against a plea or action in the case commenced
against them by John Jenkins, of Barnstable, in the C. C. Pleas. The
suit was prolonged and expensive, so that, April 1717, a portion of the
undivided lands was ordered to be sold to raise £35 for maintaining the
town’s rights.
2	The meeting-house then undoubtedly adjoined the burial-lot; the pres-
ent Cong, meeting-house green was not laid out until 1749.
VOL. n.	56442
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Robinson to treat with him. It is not charged that he took
illegal toll, but the toll was thought exorbitant.1 Economy was
requisite, for financial difficulties were pressing; such was, at this
time, the condition of the currency that £1 was worth but 44
cents of our present coinage. The valuation this year stood:
cows £1.10, oxen £2.10, yearlings 15s., horses £2, swine,— year
old, 6s., sheep,— score, 5s., meadow and tillage lands 5s. per acre.
In 1723, Dec. 24, Rev. Joseph Metcalfe died, after
16 years ministry here, aged 42, greatly lamented;
but no monument marks his grave!2
1	The mill was on Five-mile River, which came early to be called after
the first miller,— Dexter’s River. Near the seat of this ancient mill, is now
the Pacific Factory.
2	Rev. Joseph Metcalfe, b. Ap. 11, 1082, was s. of John and Hannah,
grandson of Michael and Mary, great-grandson of Michael and Sarah
who came from England. His emigrant ancestor was from Tatterford,
Norfolk Co., and b. 1586, — a weaver, who came over 1637 and settled at
Dedham. Rev. Mr. M. m. Abia Adams, daughter of Rev. Wm. of Ded-
ham. They had a large family. She m. 2d., Rev. Isaac Chauncey, of
Hadley. Her children by Mr. M. were, all but one, daughters. Abigail,
who died in inf.; Abijali; Abia Nov. 15, 1709, who m. James Fitch, of
Berwick; Hannah May 2, 1712, who m. Timothy Metcalfe of Mansfield,
Ct.; Alice, twin to the preceding, m. Wm. Metcalfe of Lebanon; Mary,
who m. John Reed of Lebanon; Elisa, who m. John Williams, of Lebanon;
Delight; Sarah, who m. Jas. Fowler of E. Haddam; Azuba, who m. Wm.
Williams of Union, Me.; and Sybil. Of the excellent pastor, an anecdote
is related which illustrates the surveillance to which, even in private matters,
ministers were long accustomed, and which practice, it is possible, has never
yet wholly subsided. It also suggests the unprofitableness of yielding to
vulgar caprice. Mr. M. was not only a good man; he was indulgent, amia-
ble, with a mind and heart so elevated above all little efforts at mere
personal decoration, that his care was simply to be neat, agreeable, and
respectable in his attire. He had lately visited Dedham, and also Boston;
and his periwig — for ministers, as well as judges and other distinguished
gentlemen, however youthful, must in those days wear wigs — having from
long use become somewhat dilapidated, he had availed himself of his prox-
imity to the peruke-maker. Returning home late on Saturday, there was
no exhibition of this crowning accomplishment of our pastor till it suddenly
presented itself in the pulpit on Sunday morning. Whether the metamor-
phosis of his venerable head would have been more benignly received, had
there been opportunity for forestalling general approbation, by deferring to
the excellent taste and superior judgment of Mrs. A., B. and C., severally,
— each one first, and by giving a little space for gossip to spend itself
without being cheated of its privilege of conveying the news, we are not
prepared to say. The wig was not extravagant, nor vet had it been pur-
chased with parsimonious stint; it was fashionable, and becoming the station
and dignity of the wearer. Some parishioners did not, however, it is to be
feared, receive any ghostly benefit from that day’s ministrations; a con-
siderable number of the most interesting, and, it may be said, influential
part of the flock were — as might have been inferred from their quick and
significant glances at one another, and as was more than demonstrated byANNALS OP FALMOUTH.
443
In 1724, Feb. 24, arrangements were made to settle
with the administrator of Mr. Metcalfe; and the town
voted to concur with the church in the choice of Mr.
Josiah Marshall to be their minister.1 A salary was
voted of <£120 for the first year; after that the salary
was to be fixed at £80 per annum. Mr. M. accepted,
April 6, and was paid for the time he had already
officiated.
Timothy Robinson asked “permission to build a small gallery
and pew over the front gallery; ” and Thos. Parker “ petitioned
for leave to build a small gallery for a pew over the men’s stairs
in the S. W. corner.” Both applications were granted. The
school-mistress was “voted £12 and diet, with use of a horse to
visit her friends twice a year.”
In 1725, the bounds between this town and the Marshpees were
defined.2
verbal exchanges after meeting and on their way home — greatly scandal-
ized. The result was, after the gravity of the scandal had been duly
discussed from dwelling to dwelling through the earlier part of the week, it
so happened that a gathering of prominent and select ladies occurred,
and Mr. M. was present, — whether by direct summons coram nobis, we
cannot say. Kindly listening to all their utterances and sincerely wishing
to know what terms would be granted, he deferentially asked whether he
should lay aside the use of a wig altogether ? To this they seemed unani-
mously to object — they would have their minister appear well, but the wig
to which they objected had “ an unbecoming look of worldliness and pride.”
Shall I, then, resume the old one, decayed as it is ? or will you do me the
favor to intimate what alterations are necessary to make the new one a true
Christian wig ? Come, you, Madam A., just do me the honor to clip off
what offends. She hesitated, but he insisted; so a supernumerary lock or
two were slightly and delicately clipped. Is that really all ? But others
were not satisfied. Do, then, dear Good wife B., try to help us, and let us
effect this wig’s conversion to its proper condition. Mrs. B. suggested only
a little additional trimming, and another, expert with scissors, stood by to
execute orders. Nearly all were willing to propose some improvement and
aid in the wig’s reformation. Finally, all but one was satisfied. She had
not been particularly consulted, and had been silent,— dissenting only now
when she heard the rest of the jury confess themselves ready for an acquit-
tal of the wig in its present state from all charge of undue worldliness.
She thought the wearing of a wig a breach of the second commandment.
Rev. Mr. Metcalfe, however, kindly and meekly obviated her objection, —
suggesting that the wig in its present shape was really so unlike any thing
in heaven above, or on the earth beneath, or in the waters under the earth,
that he thought it could hardly fall under the prohibition in the decalogue.
1 Rev. Mr. Marshall, b. in Braintree Nov. 28, 1700, grad. H. C. 1720.
There is no evidence that either he or his predecessor was regularly installed
over the church, and yet they probably were.
2“Beginning at a creek called Moonomoiest near Wauquoit, and from444
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1728, May 15, it was “voted that our part of the £60,000
loan shall be brought and divided into £10 parcels, to be hired
out for the benefit of the town; Lieut. Hatch, Ens. Parker, and
Jno. Dimraick to act as trustees, and to have 20s. on the £100,
for their trouble.”1 The town was now engaged in a contest
with Samuel Barker respecting a road from the county road to b:
wharf and ferry. Barker was enterprising and persevering; am
the town opposing on account of the expense, he applied to the
Court. The controversy was protracted some ten years, and
proved an expensive affair. It was, at the same time, “ agreed
by the town that Lieut. Joseph Parker shall carry the ferry from
Woods Hole to the Vineyard; ” and this only aggravated the
difficulties,— a long contest between Barker and Parker being the
result.
In 1729, Dec. 29, an agent was appointed by the
town to buy Mr. Marshall’s house; and, June 30,1730,
Rev. Josiah Marshall asked for a dismission from his
parochial charge, which was granted Aug. 14, after a
ministry of about 7 years.2 Oct. 7, it was “ voted that
£1.5s. per Sunday be paid for preaching during the
vacancy; ” also, u voted to pay £545 for Mr. Marshall’s
house.”
In 1731, Feb. 4, it was “voted to treat with Mr.
Samuel Palmer.” 3 An offer was made of £200 Settle-
said Moonomoiest on a straight line about N. W. by N. to a certain tree
marked by a heap of stones at the southernmost end of Ashimuit Pond;
from thence westerly to a small pine tree now standing near the county
road that leads from Sandwich to Falmouth; from thence by the aforesaid
road easterly till it meets with the Sandwich line.” This was “ signed by
Isaac Robinson and Samuel Lewis, agents for this town, and Ezra Bourne,
Chenachuson -|- his mark, Matthias Richard -f- his mark, and Caleb Pognet
his mark, for the South Sea Indians.”
1	Six years after, i. e. 1734, Capt. Richard Bourne, and Mr. Moses Mendai
were chosen to take account of the interest and receive the same for the
trustees; and it was “ voted that the interest be taken to pay the county-
rate.” This was opposed, and a protest signed by John Bourne and 26
others. The trustees being in the opposition, refused to pay over; and, in
1736, Moses Mendai Esq., was remunerated for his trouble and expense in
recovering the money.
2	Rev. Mr. Marshall, it is understood, went from hence to Va., or N. C.
By his m. here with Hannah Hatch Feb. 1, 1727, he had Mary Dec. 4,
1727, whod. 1728.
8 Rev. Mr. Palmer, b. 1707, was from Middleboro*, s. of Rev. Thomas.
He grad. H. C., 1727; and was a practitioner of medicine as well as cler-
gyman.ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
445
ment, to be paid by instalments of £50 per annum;
a salary of £90 for four years, and after that period,
£100. If money depreciate, a proportionate consid-
eration ; if the currency improve, an equal abatement.
Mr. Palmer’s letter of acceptance, Sept. 1, was read in
town-meeting, Sept. 17. Dissenting from the call
extended to Mr. Palmer were “ Stephen Harper, Benj.
Swift, Rd. Landers, Sam’l Bowerman, Thos. Bowerman
Jr., Amos Landers, Justus Gifford, Jno. Landers, Thos.
Bowerman, Wm. Gifford Sr., Wm. Gifford Jr., Seth
Gifford, and Wm. Gifford, younger.”1 Mr. Palmer
was ordained, Nov. 24. No church records previous
to Mr. Palmer’s settlement are extant; by him a reg-
ular record was kept, and has been transmitted.2 In
Nov., the town “voted £170 for Mr. Palmer’s settle-
ment and salary — to clear the Quakers.”
In 1732, the first allusion to the office of deacon in
the town is found on the first page of the church
records, “ Jan. 9: Cuffce, the negro servant of Dea.
Parker, propounded for full communion,” and, “Feb.
13, Cuffee baptized and received into full communion
with consent of the brethren.” Mr. Joseph Parker
died this year.
In 1735, Sept. 8, the schoolmaster was voted a salary of £30.
The controversy “ Barker vs. the Town of Falmouth,” is still
going on: Sylvs. Bourne Esq. is employed to defend the town;
and the town “ voted that there is a sufficient open road for the
use of the town and county to the ferry at Woods Hole and
convenient landing already provided.” The town also petitioned
the Court that they might “ not be put to any more expense for
more high-ways.” 3
1	These were Quakers.
2	The fact that no records were kept, or transmitted, previous to Mr. P.’s
pastorate has caused the impression on the minds of many that he was the
first who held the pastoral office here. It may be so; but if records had
been handed down, they might also have given other views. There were
deacons of the church, but no mention of them, as such, is found for all
these past years.
* The new road which Mr. Barker desired to have constructed, was to446
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1737, May 18, Seth Parker was app. “ to oppose at the General
Court any charge upon the town for Sam’l Barker’s ferry; ” and, in
1738, an agent was appointed “ to oppose the Eastham petition
for the county courts to be held there.” Joseph Pitts was school-
master this year with a salary of £35.
In 1739, it was “ voted to build a new meeting-house 45 feet
square, with 37 pew spots below and 12 above, on the same lot
where the old house stands.” This being earnestly opposed by
a minority, who wanted to have the location further east, a com-
mittee from neighboring towns were finally agreed upon to locate
the house; but their decision not being satisfactory, the subject
was indefinitely postponed. Instead of requiring the killing of
mischievous birds, a bounty was offered, March 13.
In 1740, in the list of townsmen, appear the names of Joseph
Crowell, Jehoshaphat Eldred, and Stephen Bowerman. William
Green was appointed to call the trustees of the loan-fund to
account, and suit was directed in case they refuse to pay.
In 1741, Mr. Philip Dexter died, se. 82.1
In 1742, Mr. Pitts, a teacher of much repute, was in the town’s
employ; and, April 13, it was “ voted that he who shall diet the
schoolmaster shall have 9d. a week of the last emission added to
the former 5s. per week.” Sept. 13, it was “voted not to build
a new meeting-house, but to add to the old one by erecting gal-
leries over those now existing, and repair the outside, under the
direction of Nathan Lewis, Nath’l Davis, and Elnathan Nye.”
This proceeding also elicited an earnest controversy that lasted
several years.
In 1743, the name of John Bourne appears. Mr. Pitts was, as
heretofore, the schoolmaster. An additional amount, of £200,
was raised for Rev. Mr. Palmer on account of depreciated cur-
rency ; and, for the same object, money was raised Oct. 31, 1745.
In 1746, Messrs. Daniel Butler and Benjamin Parker were
appointed agents “to take care of the burial-place, also of the
his house and ferry, at the point forming the S. eastern extremity of Little
Harbor.
*Mr. Philip Dexter, b. 1659, s. of William, first of S., then of Be.,
and grand s. of Thos. Sr., was town clerk in 1702, and appears by the
records to have had by his w. Alice nine children, viz.: Joseph; Philip;
Jabez; John who d. 1723; etc. Philip m. Tamer Chadwick, Jan. 19,
1752, and had Joseph Mar. 22, 1753. There was a John of Rochester,
who m. Sarah Handy of S. Dec. 11, 1746 ; and a John in Y., a blacksmith,
who m. Bethia, prob. Vincent, 1748, and 2d Philippa, supposed also a
Vincent, 1758, and had Hannah, Sept. 7, 1749 in Y.; Isaac, Oct. 7, 1751;
and John, June 4, 1759.ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
447
minister’s lots.” In 1747, April 23, a vote was again obtained
for building a meeting-house, and Messrs. Joseph Parkor, Joseph
Robinson, and Eben. Dimmick were appointed a building-com-
mittee; but it was finally concluded “to mend the old one for
the present.” It was “voted that 8s. per week be paid for dieting
the schoolmaster, and no more.” July 17, “ voted that the meet-
ing-house be 40 feet square.” Sept. 24, “voted not to build;”
but “to add £150, old tenor, to the minister’s salary.” In 1748,
for town charges, £200 was raised; and £300, old tenor, for the
minister’s salary, — the last reconsidered and £250 voted.
In 1749, the meeting-house lot and a training-field were laid
out;1 and, August 8, it was “voted that the meeting-house to
be built shall be 45 feet square, with 17 spots for pews below,
and 12 above.” This appears not to have been the final and
decisive vote; that was reserved for the following year, when,
March 11, 1750, it was “ voted that the new meeting-house to be
built shall be 42 feet square, and the present house used to
build.” The number of the pews and the owners, we shall see,
in a few years, — when the house is erected. No account is
found of the election of church officers until 1751, when, on the
resignation of Dea. Joseph Crowell, Mr. Benj. Parker was
elected deacon. In 1753, an open road was laid out on the
North shore. Capt. Joseph Parker d. Mar. 21, se. 56.
In 1756, June 21, we gain a view of the interior of
“ the new meeting-house,” and its pew-owners. On the
lower floor were 22 pews, belonging to
1.	Minister,
2.	Capt. Thos. Shiverick,
3.	Wm. Eldred,
4.	Mr. Joseph Bourne,
5.	Eben Hatch Jr.,
6.	Nath’l Nickerson,
7.	Lt. Sam’l Shiverick,
8.	Capt. Joseph Robinson and
Eben. Dimmick,
9.	Solo. Swift and Solo. Nye,
10.	Joseph Dexter & Lt. Butler,
11.	Silas Hatch,
12.	Paul Hatch & Solo. Davis,
13.	Shubael Weeks,
1Oct. 6, 1749, the undivided lands having been encroached upon, action
was had by the proprietors of “ the old purchase,” particularly in relation
to a strip running from the head of the burial-place to Monument Bay;
and it was agreed that a part of the same shall be for a meeting-house lot
and training-field, — about 1J acres, besides the road that leads to Woods
Hole, and is bounded southerly by Sami Shiverick, westerly by Silas
Hatch, northerly by Nath’l Nickerson, and easterly by Paul Hatoh and
Sam’l Shiverick, — to be perpetually and forever to that end.448
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
14. Sylv. Parker,
18. Capt. Joseph Parker,
15. Joshua Crowell and David 19. Noah Davis,
16.	Benj. Parker,
17.	Ens. Theodore Morse,
Crowell,
20.	Eph. Swift and Shub. Ny*
21.	Roland Robinson, Esq*
22.	Thomas Parker
On the gallery floor, were 11 pews, owned by
1.	Stephen Crowell,
2.	Jabez Davis,
3.	Reuben Gifford,
4.	Solo. Price,
5.	John Crowell,
7.	Benj. Davis,
8.	Silas Hatch,
9.	Jno. Hammond,
10.	Wid. Mary Bourne,
11.	Sylvanus Hatch.
6.	Eben. Weeks,
The schoolmaster, this year, was Samuel West, with
a salary of £20 and board; and he was none other
than the young man from an obscure part of Yar-
mouth, at this time fitting for college by the aid of a
few friends and his own industry, who became after-
wards the learned and eminent divine, Rev. Samuel
West, D. D., of metaphysical renown and of some
patriotic distinction.
In 1759, the town divided into two school-districts. The
schools had, until now, been “ movable,” i. e., itinerating to differ-
ent parts of the town. In 1763, a committee was chosen “to
open a grammar-school and procure a teacher, — moving the
school from place to place so as to give all parts the benefit.”
In 1767, another mill was demanded; and it was “ voted to build
a dam at William Green’s River; if Benj. Gifford will build the
mill and keep it in repair, — he to make the dam a sufficient cart-
way.” This proposition, at a meeting held by adjournment, was
reconsidered, and it was “ voted to give £53.6.8. if said Gifford
will build a grist-mill, keep it in good repair, and grind for two
quarts per bushel; and, also to build a dam over Green’s River
where the mill is to stand.” So necessary to the convenience of
a people were grist-mills, and so important was the miller, that
the former were early encouraged by gratuities, and the latter
was exempt from military or other public service. The causes
of the decay of fish in localities where they once flourished,
baffle the inquiries of ichthyologists. An ineffectual attempt was
made this year to compass some means “ for the preservation ofANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
449
oysters in Oyster Pond.” In 1771, Mr. Joseph Davis was chosen
deacon.
We now approach the period of revolutionary ex-
citement and political developments. The presence
and action of patriotic men from this town, we have
noticed in our first volume. Prominent among these,
surrounding the court-house at Barnstable, were John
Grannis, Elisha Swift, Ebenezer Nye, Moses Swift, and
Daniel Butler Jr.
Capt. Joseph Robinson, and Messrs. Noah Davis, and Nath’l
Shiverick were appointed a committee of correspondence Oct.
1774, and soon after it was ordered that every man from 16 to
60 years old shall be furnished with arms and ammunition,—the
committee of safety to call the town together in one fortnight
complete in arms. A stock of povvder, balls, and flints were pro-
vided ; and, Nov. 21, Joseph Palmer, John Nye, Abner Davis,
Samuel Fish, John Grannis, John Bourne, and Daniel Butler Jr.,
were appointed “ to see that the Continental Congress be ad-
hered to.”
In 1775, Rev. Samuel Palmer died, — his ministry
long, laborious, and faithful; his memory embalmed
in the affections of the people.1 Proceedings were
1 ‘ Here lies the body of Rev. Samuel Palmer who fell asleep April 13,
1775, in the 68th year of his age, and the 45th of his ministry.
“ His virtues would a monument supply.” *
Such is the inscription on his tomb-stone. Mr. Palmer’s life, it is said, was a
sacrifice to labors and exposure in the performance of his duties as a physi-
cian. He m. Mercy Parker Jan. 25, 1736-7, who d. Mar. 1, 1750, and 2d,
Sarah Allen, of Chilmark 1751. Issue: Thos. Feb. 12, 1737-8; Joseph
June 12, 1739; Mercy July 19, 1743; Elisa. July 12, 1745; Job Aug. 15,
1747; Mary Feb. 11, 1749; Sarah Nov. 7, 1752, whom. Jos. Croswell;
Lucy, who d. 1754; Martha July 31, 1756, who m. Lothrop Lewis; Susan
Nov. 27, 1757, who m. Hatch; Anna Dec. 27, 1759, d. y.; and Sam’l April
28, 1763, d. y. — Mr. P. had lands, and, although having probably neither
leisure nor inclination to bestow, personally, much labor upon them, \fras
wont to assist his negro Titus at ploughing-time. Titus understood his busi-
ness ; but the master, whatever theoretical knowledge he had of agriculture,
was, in Titus’ estimation, not so attentive in driving a team as he should
have been. This, the negro generously imputed to absent-mindedness; it
annoyed him, however, that the furrows were so irregular, and, occasionally,
he was heard by passers-by to say, in his own impassioned eloquence,.
Why, massa, it seems to me you might do a leetle better.” These kindly
VOL. II.	57450
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
had by the town to promote the comfort c f Rev. Mr.
Palmer’s widow; and, in the course of the summer,
Mr. Zebulon Butler was called to the pastorate. His
acceptance bears date Aug. 19, and his ordination
occurred Oct. 18.1 The Friends’ meeting-house, which
had stood very many years, gave place this year to
one larger and more convenient.
In the month of May, the town voted instructions
to the constables to pay to the Provincial Agent, Henry
Gardner Esq.; and Barachiah Bassett and Job Parker
were added to the committee of correspondence. A
night-watch was inaugurated, — “ to stand from 9 in
the evening till sunrise;” every citizen, capable of the
duty, to take his turn, directed by a committee of
safety. The people here early began to realize the
exposedness of their situation. There was no shrink-
ing from duty; no disposition to create side-issues to
embarrass the action of the leading patriots; no sym-
pathy with the enemy, lurking under the guise of
patriotism. The locality was peculiar. The trans-
portation of supplies by land was a slow and tedious
process; and all intercourse with marts from which
supplies had been easily obtained by vessels in times
past, was effectually cut off. At a town-meeting, called
for the purpose, a committee was appointed, and in-
structed to procure a quantity of the cereals and
other stores, and deposit these in some safe place to
sell to those who shall need, and to give to the poor,
at discretion. This committee was Timothy Crocker,
m
and respectful, but meaning reproofs and remonstrances came, in fact, so
often that the people called it “ Tite’s swearing at the minister.” We have
given the extent of his profanity, and the utmost stretch of his disrespect
toward his owner. They were strongly attached to each other. Titus
survived Mr. P., went to sea in an American privateer, and never re-
turned.
1 Mr. Butler was graduated at H. C. 1770.ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
451
Joseph Parker, and Nath’l Shiverick. They wjre also
directed to procure an ample supply of fire-arms on
the town’s account, and use the credit of the town to
raise the money necessary for these purchases.1 The
further proceedings introduce to us one who took a
more than ordinarily prominent part in the pending
contest, and whose noble deeds are to be remembered,
— ever devoted to the cause of liberty, uninfluenced
by threats or bribes, stern to his purpose, and fixed in
his position
11	“ Like an oak
That stands unmoved though all the winds employ
11	Their ceaseless roar.”2
The town ordered the raising of a company of
minute-men, to be paid only 2s. a day for actual ser-
vice, and appointed Maj. Joseph Dimmick to take them
in charge, instruct and exercise them, to be ready to
any duty to which he would assign them. There was
confidence in his judgment, in his bravery, and in his
patriotism.
The letter of the general committee of safety,
addressed to this town, is on record; but the whole
force the town could raise was needed to defend its
own shores. British vessels were constantly in the
Sound, and cruisers around these islands were ever
insolent and exacting. The enemy’s principal rendez-
vous was Tarpaulin Cove.3 There their larger vessels
1	It is remarkable that, although it may have been noticed how extremely
cautious were the people respecting expenditures in years past, there was
now no holding back. A feeling of enthusiasm inspired all, and money
was poured out as water.
2	Tradition, often fanciful, says, “ When he received the intelligence of
the battle at Bunker Hill, he was with his team in the field. He paused,
looked anxious, but soon said, ‘ Here, Braddock, you must look to the team.
I must go/ Some nearly allied, but influenced by tory proclivities, would
have dissuaded him; but his purpose was firm and always equal to the
end at which he aimed.”
’ Upon the first appearance of the enemy, Mr. Elisha Nye, who was a res-452
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE BOUNTY.
harbored, and there was the concentrating point of the
smaller craft that were almost incessantly harassing
the contiguous shores.1 Every opportunity for the
getting of needed supplies was seized by them, and the
plunder of cattle and provisions was a frequent occur-
rence. Expeditions, impromptu, became often neces-
sary to cut off an enemy’s vessel or retake a prize,
and these were gotten up by the people. They, in
fact, became expert in stratagem, and, in their turn,
became provokingly annoying to the British. In
these adventures numbers distinguished themselves,
but none more than Dimmick. Mr. Thomas Palmer Sr.
died this year, April 25, aged 37.
In 1776, the town was resolved as ever “to stand by the Con-
tinental Congress.” The town voted to add £1.16 to the wages
of such citizens as shall be drafted for the Continental Army. A
constant watch was kept; and, April 5, a petition was presented
to the General Court for a guard of soldiers to be placed on the
Neck. In October, the town voted “ consent to such constitu-
tion and form of government as shall most conduce to the safety,
peace, and happiness of the State.” The latter part of the year,
news of the arrival of ships of war and transports in Newport
harbor caused much excitement.
In 1777, the apprehension of distress for bread induced an
order of the town for the purchase of 500 bushels of corn for
the poor the coming winter.
ident there as an inn-keeper, and who suffered from the indignities the Br.
Sloop-of-War Falkland, Capt. Linzey, offered to himself and family, made
deposition of the same, which was laid before the Provincial Congress;
whereupon, Congress directed Capt. John Grannis to provide 30 men and
arms, and repair without delay to the Elisa. Islands for their protection.
Capt. G. raised his company here, and they did good service; but the force,
though increased to 50, was altogether inadequate to the work assigned
them.
1 The smaller craft were denominated by the people here “ shaving-mills.”
They were generally large, open, light boats about three times tl e size of
an ordinary Vineyard sail-boat, having often three masts, which xuld be
unshipped at pleasure, a large gun on the bow, and were commanded by
about 25 men well armed. Built for fast-sailing, — “shaving the wind
very close,” as sailors say of a vessel that sails “ close to the wind,” and
probably deriving their name from this circumstance.ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
453
In 1778, Rev. Mr. Butler, after three y Jars’ minis-
try, received, by consent, his dismission.1 The com-
mittee of safety this year were Nath’l Shiverick Esq.,
Joseph Dimmick, Job Parker, Moses Swift, Thomas
Jones, Moses Hatch, and John Nye. Great was the
demand for men and money.2 The attempt of the
enemy on this town, Sept. 30, was not unanticipated.
The tories in this region had more than intimated such
demonstration; and the operations of the enemy at
Fairhaven and New Bedford on the 5th had sufficient-
ly forewarned the inhabitants of this town that the
jubilant aspect of sympathizers with the British was
not without cause.3 Refugees were known to be near
1	Mr. Butler went to Nantucket, became a manufacturer of snuff, and
lived to old age. It is said that serious imprudences alleged, caused his
removal.
2	In a diary of the Revolution, pub. in Hist. Mag., we find the following:
“May 9, 1778, Newport. The ships that went after stock returned and
reported that they had brought from the Elizabeth Islands 1500 sheep and
cattle, and landed them on the E. side of the island ” — Newport. “ It is
likewise said that they burnt the barracks.” Again, “May 19, four small
sloops returned from the Elizabeth Islands with sheep.” The firing and
sack of Bristol, Warren, etc., are mentioned; and to all is added this sig-
nificant remark: “ This expedition has caused universal joy among the
tories.”
3	Perhaps we cannot give a better idea of the danger to which this town
was exposed than by recurring to the enemy’s own official correspondence,
giving an account of the invasion of a portion of Bristol county. Letters
are found in “ The Remembrancer,” a mag. pub. in London, in one of
which the naval commander, Rob’t Fanshawe, writes to Lord Geo. Germain
as follows:	“ Careysport, off Bedford, Sept. 6,1778. My Lord: I enclose
to your lordship a copy of Rear-Admiral Gambier’s order to proceed with
a detachment of ships and transports and assist in such services as His
Excy. Sir II. Clinton, or Maj. Gen Grey, should propose. Last evening,
the fleet came before Bedford harbor. I send your lordship an outline
sketch of the scene of operation, and the plan and execution of the naval
part, with minutes of the manner in which it was performed. I am in-
formed that the army in its progress destroyed all the stores, wharves, and
shipping at them ; two or three sloops only, by being on float, escaped the
flames. .	. It is with great pleasure I hear that the army has had very
little loss. The enemy, not expecting an attack, was not prepared to resist.
I cannot particularize the damage done; but, by the appearance of the
shipping before dark, and the conflagration, I suppose it must be very
great. .	. Prisoners report 70 sail destroyed, of which eight were large
ships laden, and four privateers; great quantities of canvas, cordage, pitch,
turpentine, tobacco, coffee, etc.” We here remark, this report of Com.
Fanshawe conflicts somewhat with contemporaneous accounts; for instance,454
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
by, assisting in the marauding excursions to the isla ids,
and ready to act as guides in the contemplated gr and
the suppression of the fact of the burning of dwellings, barns, mills, etc., on
the march through New Bedford, Acushnet, and around Oxford and Fair-
haven to Sconticut Neck, where they encamped 4000 strong; and that per-
sons were wantonly shot by soldiers en route. The fleet from which this
large body of troops landed consisted of 32 vessels, the largest a ship of 40
guns, — the Careysport, on board which was Gen. Grey, the military com-
mander of the expedition. The design, doubtless, was to finish the work
of destruction in Bristol Countyby burning Fairhaven the following night;
but the militia from the neighboring towns were, by this time, on hand, and,
although a large body of Br. troops proceeded up the river, firing buildings
on their way, they met now with an unexpectedly warm reception. To
Brig. Gen. Fearing, then a Major, from Wareham, has been awarded dis-
tinguished honor for prompt decision and bravery on this occasion. lie
had only about 140 men with him, whose well-directed fire took the enemy
so completely by surprise that they quickly retreated to their ships. It is
remarkable that, in all attempts made in these parts by the enemy, they
seem to have been, whenever resisted, impressed with the idea that they
were encountering superior numbers.
Maj. Gen. (Earl) Grey, in a despatch to Sir Henry Clinton, same date as
above, says, “ A favorable wind and every possible exertion, and assist-
ance received from the Navy, enabled us to land so rapidly, yesterday
evening, about 6 o’clock, that the enemy had but a few hours’ notice of our
approach. The business was finished, and the troops all reembarked this
morning, 6th, by 12 o’clock, with the loss of only five or six men wounded,
one of whom is since dead. .	. The only battery they had was on the
Fairhaven side — an enclosed fort with eleven pieces of cannon, which was
abandoned; the cannon were properly demolished by Capt. Scott, com-
manding officer of the artillery, and the magazine was blown up. .	. I
must beg leave to refer you for particulars to Capt. Andre.” This Capt.
Andre, we would in passing note, is the same afterward known as Maj.
Andre, and executed Oct. 2, 1780, according to the stern rules of war, and
to whose memory a monument was erected in Westminster Abbey. Gen.
Grey, like Com. Fanshawe, was evidently disposed to magnify the impor-
tance of the expedition and the glory achieved. He also ignores the
wilful burning of houses. He says, “ Not one house, I think, was consumed
that could be avoided, except those with stores.” To his declaration, “ I can-
not enough praise the spirit, zeal, and activity of the troops, also their sobriety
in the midst of temptation,” we must oppose the testimony of one who was
an eye-witness. Mr. William Russell’s testimony remains: ‘ They opened
a hogshead of rum, and several of the soldiers were so intoxicated that
they were carried away in carts.’ The fiendish spirit, aroused by strong
drink, was perhaps the cause of the shameless shooting of two unoffending
young men as the troops passed on to the head of Acushnet, and the mor-
tally wounding Lt. Metcalf soon after. Gen. Sir Henry Clinton also mag-
nifies the action of Gen. Grey, and says, Sept. 21, in his despatch to Lord
Germain, “ It reflects much honor on the abilities of the General and the
behavior of the troops on the occasion.” The troops had been Landed at
Clark’s Neck, or Cove, near the mouth of the river. We regret to say.
foremost among the British sympathizers, who acted as conductor and in-
formed the enemy of all persons holding office or commissions, v as Eldad
Tupper, a late refugee from Sandwich. The British returns, officially
made, show “one wounded and three missing of 1st Battalion l.ght Inf.;
one killed, one wounded and three missing 1st Bat. of Grenadiers; oneANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
455
attack. The entire militia of the neighboring towns
were called out. Their interposition was, however,
soon found to be unnecessary. The enemy, after
burning one coaster, and cutting out four others that
were sent for safety to a harbor four miles distant,—
an act consummated before the militia could reach
there, — confined their operations to depredations at
the Vineyard, carrying off many thousand sheep, hun-
dreds of cattle, many arms and accoutrements, — all
that could be collected, all the corn and vegetables
that could be found, burning a brig, with several
smaller vessels, and numerous boats, and seizing the
public moneys. They even opened newly-made graves,
so intent were they in search of treasure, rifled private
dwellings, and ruthlessly broke the windows. They
then, on the 15th, moved westward.
Money was raised by the town to hire men for the Continental
Army, and Maj. Dimmick was chairman of the committee ap-
pointed to procure them. Those enlisted were forwarded to
Cambridge.1 Several men from this town were also of the expedi-
tion sent to R. Island, Lot Dimmick being lieutenant.
In 1779, April 2, a formidable fleet resolved on the
destruction of this town. At a late hour the night
missing 33d Reg’t; one wounded and eight missing 42d Reg’t; one missing
4Gth Reg’t; one wounded 64th Reg’t; Total 1 killed, 4 wounded, and 16
missing.” The report adds: “ The enemy’s loss, which came to our knowl-
edge, was an officer and 3 men who, on receiving a fire from the enclosures,
rushed on with fixed bayonets”
1 William Green, of this company, is said to have made himself conspicu-
ous, by the death of Sir Rd. Brown, a distinguished officer of Burgoyne’s
army. The company were employed in guarding the prisoners; Brown
attempted to cross the line, and was shot. The prisoners became tumultu-
ous, threatened Green’s life, and demanded the trial of Green by court-
martial. We need not say he was found to have been in the discharge of
duty, and was acquitted. Green, whose bro. Jona. was present and wit-
ness to the shooting, had been admonished that if he permitted any prison-
er to pass the lines, he would be reported to the superior officer; and
Brown had been known to disregard the rules before. He had now two
women with him, in a chaise, and intended to go to Boston. He was chal-
lenged and tairly warned that if he did not stop he must take the conse-
quences ; but drove on.456
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
previous, a marauding party from the fleet now lying
at Tarpaulin Cove, eluding the vigilance of our watch,
landed from their boats, having a refugee for their con-
ductor, and proceeded from Woods Hole to the farms
of Messrs. Ephraim and Manassah Swift, committing
sundry depredations;1 but were soon surprised and
compelled to put off. with little of their booty. Re-
turning to the fleet, it was decided to move forward
the next day and burn the town. Information of the
intention soon reached the town,2 * and, of course, the
excitement was very great. Expresses were sent to
the adjoining villages and towns, whilst the men on
hand hastened to the work of perfecting the intrench-
ments. The expected fleet hove in sight early on the
morning of the 3d, and came to anchor abreast the
town at about 9 a. m. They had taken this position
evidently to facilitate the landing of troops; and were
1	They drove off 12 head of cattle, knocked them on the head at the beach,
and were in the act of taking the carcasses on board, when surprised. The
refugees who acted as guides knew that the Swifts kept fine dairies; and the
officers had determined on the possession of a good supply of fresh butter
and rich cheeses ; therefore, whilst the main body were robbing stalls, pig-
sties and hen-roosts, a party entered one of the houses. Mrs. Manassah
Swift was alone with her children; but, meeting the soldiers at the door,
she demanded if they had a commander ? One stepping forward and
claiming that he had the honor to command, she replied, 4 My house is de-
fended by no man, and I have the right to presume that you are a gentle-
man who will not molest a helpless woman and her children/ The offic er
politely inquired if she had any cheese ?	4 Yes/ she replied; 4 but no mere
than for my own use/ He professed a willingness to buy, but she had none
to sell. A refugee, who made one of the party, then led two of the soldiers
to her cheese-room, and each pierced a cheese with his bayonet, expecting
to bear them off without further parley; but Mrs. S. confronted them al
the door, grasped, and slipped from their impalement, her cheeses, and be-
stowed them in her blue-checked apron. 4 You’re a valiant set of fellows,
to be sure ! * She was not resisted; the enemy cowed, and, under a pro-
perly directed volley of wholesome advice retreated to join their comrades
on the beach who were beginning to load the boat with the carcasses of the
good woman’s milch cows.
2	It is said that the evening of the 2d was spent by several of the British
officers in a frolic at the house of one John Siocomb on Pesque Island.
Slocomb was a well-known tory. He, of course, was possessed of all their
plans. But as he reflected on their purpose, his tory sympathies gave way,
and he secretly despatched his son down the islands to cross over to the Hole
that night and give warning to the Falmouth people.ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
457
soon, doubtless, somewhat perplexed by finding unmis-
takable indications of a very considerable force in
waiting for them. Already had a portion of the troops
disembarked; but, in attempting to make the shore in
boats, although under the cover of heavy guns from
the ships, they were soon brought to reflect on the
hazardous nature of their undertaking. They lay up-
on their oars for a moment, as if for consultation, and
then a signal from the flag-ship seemed to change their
purpose. Returning toward the ships, and then re-
connoitring in the direction of Nobsque, they soon
abandoned all attempt to land, and again went on ship-
board.1 The weather was favorable to our cause, for
1 Recurring to the record of these proceedings as published at the time,
and then reproduced in “ Almon’s American Remembrancer,” published
in London, we gain a better view than we can otherwise obtain:
“Boston, April 15, 1779. The following account of the attempt of the
enemy upon Falmouth, in the County of Barnstable, and their repulse by
the militia, is authentic : —
“ Falmouth, 5fch April, 1779.*
“ Friday, April 2, in the afternoon, Major Dimock, of this town, was
informed that about 10 or 12 vessels were seen in the Sound, steering this
way; supposed with a design of plundering and destroying this town. He
immediately sent expresses to Sandwich and Barnstable for the militia to
come to our assistance. Col. Freeman with Capts. Fish and Swift of Sand-
wich and their companies, arrived here that night and Saturday morning.
It being then very foggy, part of the enemy’s fleet appeared off Woods
Hole, to which a party of the militia were ordered and posted there. Soon
after, the fog cleared off and several of the vessels appeared against the
town, near a low, level piece of ground that extends from the shore quite
to tli i houses. There had been a small intrenchment made some years ago,
upovi the edge of the beach, which yet remained. Col. Freeman marched
the remainder of the men down to the shore, posting about 50 in said
inti enchment, and about 30 at about 130 rods distance, — being the most
con venient places for the enemy to land. At about half past eleven, they
formed their fleet, consisting of two schooners and eight sloops, into a line
against the two posts, and commenced a very warm fire on our people, with
cannon-ball, double-headed shot, bars of iron, grape shot, and small arms,
and maimed their boats,— about ten in number, with about 220 men,—
having, to appearance, nearly double that number on board, and made
various attempts to land in several places, keeping up a constant fire upon
our people from half past 11 A. M. till half past 5 p. m. Col. Freeman
and Maj. Dimock, with about 50 men, defended the intre ichments, and
repeatedly challenged them (being within call) to land, which they durst
not attempt. Our people, till now, had generally reserved their fire, but
being ordered to fire, they soon moved off into the Sound, where they
remained quiet till next morning. A party of them, in their boats,
VOL. II.	58458
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
although many buildings were struck by the fire of
the assailants, the thaw prevented the rebounding of
their missiles and but little damage was done. Alarms,
however, continued to be frequent. A large fieet came
into the Sound, Sept. 9; but, after inducing much
alarm and a general mustering of the militia in the
several towns, they drew off in the direction of Chat-
ham.1 There can be scarcely a doubt that the attack
attempted to land at Woods Hole, but about 30 of our men posted there
gave them a warm fire which soon drove them off, and the boats went to
Nonnamesit, an island near Woods Hole, where they landed and killed
the few sheep, cows, and hogs the enemy had before left, and threatened to
kill the family that lived there, because, they said, the d--d rebels had
been killing them. They had two wounded men with them. Our people
being about to go upon the island, they retreated precipitately to their
boats, carrying off only one hog and half a cow that calved the day before.
They inquired of the island’s people our numbers, and said the rebels
fought like devils. The next day, April 4th, a little after sunrise, they
fired again from the vessels to drive us from our intrenchment, and our
people returned them a warm fire with their small-arms for a few minutes,
upon which they put off for Holmes’ Hole. This morning, Monday 5th,
one armed vessel proceeded to Nonnamesit Island, and sent off a boat to
get the provisions they had killed and left there ; but a party of our people
fot there before them and prevented their landing, and some boats of ours
ad like to have cut them off from the sloop. Upon the boat’s getting to
the sloop, they hasted to join the fleet which then made sail, as they said,
for Nantucket. A boat landed at Martha’s Vineyard, where they shot a
few cattle, sheep, and hogs, which they carried off, paying for two sheep
only. They told the Vineyard people they had sent one sloop to Rhode
Island, with cowards who had refused to fight; but probably the wounded.
The party consisted of Tories. Some of them were known to have gone
from this State. The commander was said to be one Winslow ; the second
in command one Leonard. They fired on Saturday about 500 cannon.
Had the intrenchment been given up, the town could not have been
saved, their number on Saturday being much superior to ours, and no men
came to reinforce the Sandwich and Falmouth men until the firing was
over on Saturday. Col. Freeman and Major Dimoek with their officers
and men behaved with the greatest prudence, resolution, and bravery; and
we hope those base enemies of our country will be deterred from future
attempts on this town.”
1 There is an amusing anecdote associated with this last alarm that ought
not to be lost; and, as a record of it can now effect no detriment, but is in
itself instructive, we permit its insertion. The several companies of the
regiment had, on receipt of the express sounding the alarm, been ordered
to march forthwith for the relief of Falmouth, and report themselves for
orders at or before daybreak the next morning, at the conjunction of the
Sandwich and Barnstable roads, about two miles rhort of the expected
scene of action. The several companies were represented on the ground
punctually, and almost simultaneously. Almost at the same moment, a
note from Maj. Dimmick reached the officer in coirmand, saying that the
enemy had left in the direction of Chatham, and tl*it there was no longerANNALS OP FALMOUTH.
459
on this town, April 3, was planned, stimulated, and
provided chiefly by loyal refugees. Such they were
self-styled, in their invasion of Nantucket, a few days
after.1 The loyalists, who had held out to this time,
any cause for alarm. The Col., thinking the opportunity should be use-
fully employed, instead of communicating the intelligence at once, drew
the companies around him in hollow square, and, still holding the letter in
his hand, (of the contents of which no one present knew but himself and
the bearer, on whom silence was enjoined,) proceeded to address the assem-
bled military, first in briefly complimentary terms on their alacrity in an-
swering to orders; and then on the importance of entire devotion to the
country’s cause. The foe, against which the sons of liberty contend is
formidable ; his well-disciplined forces are no strangers to the battle-field ,
so that, if called this day to meet the enemy, nothing less than hard fight-
ing must be expected. Nevertheless, whilst we would regret to see our
numbers diminished at such a moment as this, if there be any present
whose heart fails him, whose resolution falters, who is not ready, if need be
to shed the last drop of his blood in the cause, I am willing to assume the
responsibility of absolving him from moving one step further toward the
field of action. If any such are here, let them intimate their wishes by
stepping forward from the ranks, and their discharge shall be granted.
All, with one only solitary exception, and he a lieutenant, were animated
by the same spirit of ardor in the cause and eagerness for the conflict. A
lieut. ventured to plead a domestic avocation on account of which he would
be excused; the alarm came so unexpectedly that, in the haste of depart-
ure, he had entirely forgotten to loosen from the stall the “ sparked” heifer
that was about to calve. He seemed, too, really affected by the urgency
of the case submitted, — his voice becoming almost womanly and his eye
glistening with moisture. The request, as might be seen by a glance along
the lines, moved the pitiful contempt of many a stout heart; but the com-
manding officer’s promise was redeemed, “with regret that the country
must on this occasion be deprived of the services of an officer so patriotic,”
and two soldiers were detailed to conduct him beyond the lines. This
being done, all present were complimented on their approved patriotism
and valor ; the despatch from Major Dimmick was read, and the military —
with a cordial invitation to remain a few moments in social chat and in par-
taking of some refreshments, in which, after breaking ranks, they might
mutually pledge their country — were dismissed. The It. was, in the mean-
while, cogitatively wending his homeward way, — his blushing honors thick
upon him; in a brief space, however, to be overtaken and joined by com-
panions in travel. It is needless to say, “ the sparked heifer ” was remem-
bered long years after. In fact, when, 35 years after, the burning of the
Capitol at Washington by the British was announced, producing a feeling
that quickly brought around a certain post-office an eager and excited
crowd, and the It., tottering under the weight of years, came also, — his
patriotism not a whit improved, vociferating “ I’m glad of it! ” — he was in
return greeted with a reminder of “the sparked heifer.”
1 See papers of the day. “ They landed, near 200 strong, entered the
town with drawn swords and fixed bayonets, and styled themselves ‘ Loyal
Refugees,’ professing to act under commission from the commander-in-chief
of the Br. forces at Newport. They owned that they had been to Fal-
mouth and intended to have landed ; but the rebels, who lay in ambush, fired
upon them, killing 15 and wounding 20, who were sent in a sloop to Rhode460
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
had Decorae desperate.1 Others were of a better
mind, evidence of which is found in the fact that,
at this very time, application was being urged in
behalf of one whose large family resided here, leading
the town to “vote its willingness that (he) should
return if the General Court permit.”
The town, Oct. 25, concurred with the church, in a
call to Mr. Isaiah Mann to settle here in the work of
the ministry;2 and voted £160 settlement, £80 salary,
and use of the parsonage lands. The winter of
1799-80 was uncommonly cold. “The bay froze to
such a degree that early in Jan., one Sampson under-
took to carry a man named Price in a sleigh across the
ice to New Bedford. The horse fell through the ice
Island; that Edward Winslow, formerly of Plymouth, was commanding
officer when at Falmouth, was wounded, and gone to Newport with a ball
in his breast. Th*i3 was told by the sentries, though Geo. Leonard, for-
merly of Boston, pretended that it was gout, —this Leonard being next in
command, and Pelham Winslow, formerly of Plymouth, next to him. One
Murray, of Rutland, stood next. Tliere were with them two of Brig.
Buggies* sons.” [Others are mentioned by name.] u They said they
should come again very soon and chastise any who should abuse those who
were friendly to them. Doet.-----was very busy with them, and they
showed great partiality for their brother lories. From the above, com-
pared with what they confessed at Nonnameset and the Vineyard, we have
reason to think Col. Freeman and the brave men under his command gave
the poor rascals a decent drubbing.**
xIn their invasion of Nantucket, they made proclamation that they were
“ come for the property of the rebellious subjects of America,” mentioning
particularly Thos. Jenkins and Timo. Fitch. In plundering, the first store
they broke into was that of Jenkins, “ which they cleared of a great quan-
tity of goods, 260 bis. of oil, 2,000 lbs. of whalebone, and stripped it of
everything, even to some chalk and an old grindstone. They broke open
a number of other stores, and took large quantities of oil, molasses, sugar,
coffee, and all kinds of goods that fell in their way, 30 or 40 suits of sails,
with anchors, cables, tow-lines, great quantities of cordage, rigging, etc.,
also the whole craft and provisions they came across. A hundred and fifty
men or more were employed from 4 p. m. on Monday, to 6 next morning
in plundering, insulting, and abusing the inhabitants, — compelling them to
truck down to the vessels whatever they had taken from them. They at
last were told that a 20-gun ship and a privateer were coming to take
them. They retreated precipitately, carrying with them most of their
plunder, leaving some loaded carts which they dare not delay for. They
carried off two brigs with cargoes bound to the West Indies, 2 or 3 schoon-
ers, and a large number of boats. Some things they could not carry off
they destroyed.”
2 Mr. Mann was from Scituate.ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
461
and was drowned.” In consequence of the severity
of the weather, and the blocking-up of the roads with
snow, the ordination of Mr. Mann was deferred.
In 1780, Jan. 19, the ordination of Mr. Mann which
had been postponed on account of the state of the
travelling, took place.1 This town, as were others in
the county, was this year embarrassed by the requisi-
tions made by government for beef. Meetings aud
consultations were held, and various expedients adopted,
to secure, if possible, this requisite supply for the army.
In 1781, May 18, the tjwn petitioned the General
Court “ for relief from the enemy infesting the coast.”
To guard the shores, 24 men were employed night
and day; but no adequate protection was afforded.2
It has ever been the misfortune of the Cape, that, in
times of danger from invasion, it has received no aid
from government, whilst, notwithstanding its peculiarly
exposed situation, it has been expected, besides its con-
tribution to the naval service, to sustain its full share
of the public burden, and also to furnish its full quota
of recruits for the land-service abroad. There are
1	The ordination had been once delayed, on account of not receiving
from the church in Scituate the certificate of church-membership. The
Council would not ordain without it The same difficulty now again occur-
red; mails and all travel were interrupted; but, this time, the defect was
obviated by the church here receiving Mr. Mann with understanding of
the circumstances and an expectation of receiving letters from Scituate at
the earliest practicable moment. The dismission from S. was received in
the month of March, and put on record.
2	Owing to the peculiarities of the location of Falmouth and Sandwich,
having a large extent of coast exposed like all other parts of the Cape,
and, in addition, being compassed by numerous defenceless islands, affording
both lurking-places and sustenance, these towns were ever on the qui vive,
and subject to constant annoyances. Refugees made these parts their van-
tage ground; present to give direction to the foreign foe; active in procur-
ing from their sympathizing friends, wearing the guise of patriotism, all the
aid and comfort needed by the enemy, whether of information or supplies;
and alert to re-convey intelligence to stimulate and encourage their sometimes
desponding sympathizers, — the people of tory proclivities who remained at
home, suspected and watched, anxiously waiting and hoping for the pros-
tration and failure of the Revolutionary movement.462
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
always, in times of war or insurrection, some who side
with the enemy, and luxuriate in their country’s
calamity. In localities where they may easily find
refuge, or protection, domestic foes are emboldened,
and will be sure to find numerous sympathizers among
those who,—
“ In moderation placing all their glory,
While tories call them whigs, and whigs say tory, —”
are, after all, the severest trial against which true pa-
triotism is called to contend.
In 1782, April 16, a company of 26 men was employed nightly
to guard the coast; for which service they were paid 3s. per night.
The records from this period, are barren of interest for several
years.
In 1788, permission was granted to Shubael Law-
rence to set up a fulling-mill.at Dexter’s River; and,
to encourage the erection of the same, it was voted
that said mill shall be free from taxation.
In 1789, April 2, Rev. Mr. Mann died, aged 34, in
the 10th year of his ministry.1 From about this
period, the united action of town and church in eccle-
siastical affairs nearly ceased ; and, henceforward, par-
ish, or society, and church records are the legiti-
mate registry of doings in such matters. Rev. Henry
Lincoln of Hingham, a grad, of H. C. in 1786, was
invited, June 18, to supply the pulpit vacant by the
decease of Mr. Mann. The church gave him a call to
the pastoral charge, Nov. 19; and, at the same time,
the concurrence of the precinct being asked, he was
elected the minister of the parish, and a salary of £60
and use of parsonage was voted him. Mr. Lincoln’s
acceptance is dated Dec. 31.
1 Mr. Mann was born in Scituate, 1759; grad. H. C. 1775, and married
Zipporah Nickerson, daughter of Isaiah.ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
463
In 1790, Feb. 3, Rev. Mr. Lincoln was ordained.
Mr. Samuel Shiverick:, long time one of the selectmen
of the town, died about this time, aged 90. The pro-
prietors’ lands were set off to each in shares. A
wolf committing great depredations here among sheep,
as also in Sandwich, Wareham, and Plymouth, this
town united with said other towns in offering a reward
of $60 for his head.
In 1791, the several towns in the county proposing
to hold a convention in Yarmouth to devise measures
for obtaining from Congress “ relief from the burthen
our coasting and fishing-vessels labor under in paying
tonnage moneg, and also the exactions discouraging to
the manufacture of sail” Mr. Nathaniel Shiverick was
chosen to attend said convention, in behalf of Fal-
mouth. An effort was made to obtain a vote for re-
pairs of the meeting-house but failed. The subject
was agitated the following year, also, without success;
it being now proposed, also, to “ enlarge the main
body of the house, and build a porch.” In 1794, the
enlargement was again pressed; some, however, pre-
ferred building a new edifice; and all action in the
premises was again deferred for want of union. The
next year, a vote was obtained to build; but conflict-
ing views and interests still retarded the execution.
To this time, the whole town, with the exception of
the Friends, continued to form one worshipping assem-
bly. Some were for building a meeting-house near
the centre of the township; but, finally, it was agreed
to divide, — the East and North parts of the town to
be set off by a line running from Tateket to the
North shore; each division to provide its own meeting-
house, the minister to officiate in each a proportionate
part of time, according to the amount of taxable
property in each. The vote on the revision of the464
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
U. S. Constitution was, in this town, unanimously in
the affirmative.
In 1796, under the direction of a building-committee
consisting of Gen. Dimmick, Dr. Wicks, Benj. Sanford,
Jno. Lawrence, David Swift, and Silvanus Davis, the
meeting-house in Falmouth proper was completed, and
a bell provided. Four corner-pews were reserved for
the poor, and the balance were sold.
In 1797, a request being made by people living
on the north side that permission be granted for the
annexation of that part of the town to Sandwich, a
town-meeting was called, and it was “ voted, that the
people of the North Shore ought not to be set off; ”
and Mr. John Robinson was “appointed a special
agent to oppose it in the General Court” At this
time, Doct. Francis Wicks, under the direction of a
committee of the town, viz.: Gen. Dimmick, Col.
Bassett, and Thos. Jones, established a hospital for
inoculation at Nobsque.
In 1799, it was “ voted to set up the ringing of the
bell,” to indicate the hour of 6 o’clock A. M., noon,
and 9 p. m. The proprietors of “ a projected new
school-house were Timo. Crocker, Frank Wicks, Elijah
Swift, etc.”
In 1800, a “Poor-house” was provided. The action
of the town in regard to the ministry hitherto, now
became exclusively the prerogative of Societies. The
public building designed for a masonic lodge, town-
hall, and school-house, was offered by the proprietors
to the town ; but all interest in it being declined, it was
then devoted to the use of the masonic fraternity, a
portion of it to be used for a private school.
In 1802, the amount raised for free schools was
$400; for general town purposes $900; for roads $80.
A sad mortality on ship-board is recorded this year,—ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
465
the deaths of Capt. David Wood, and four of his men
belonging to this town.1 In 1804, a distressing casualty-
deprived the town of Capt. Joshua Crowell and his
vessel’s crew, — lost in Boston Bay.2
In 1805, liberty was granted to a company to build
a wharf on the shores of the central village.3 In 1806,
a controversy of no recent date was renewed, touch-
ing the town’s rights in Coonemesset Pond.4 Capt.
Thomas Lewis d. this year in the W. Indies, se. about
22;5 Mr. Rufus Freeman d. Mar. 5, 1807, as. 34;6 and
Joseph Palmer Esq., July 22, ae. 68.7
In 1809, a Methodist Church was gathered in town,
through the instrumentality of Rev. Erastus Otis;
and, in 1810, the Congregational Church at East Fal-
1	“ In memory of Capt. David Wood, who d. in his 42d year, in Cape
Francois, Aug. 10, 1802, of yellow fever, with four of his men.” The men
who d. were Henry Green ae. 20, Prince Fish ae. 19, Edward Butler ae. 15,
and Willard Hatch ae. 12. Mr. David Lewis and a boy survived, and
brought the vessel home. Rev. Mr. Lincoln preached on the occasion an
affecting sermon from Job i. 15, “ And I only am escaped alone to tell thee.”
2	Those who perished with Capt. C. were Sami Nye, Benj. Wing, Job
Weeks, and Jason Bump. The vessel was towed into Plym. two days after.
Falmo. has met with its full proportion of marine disasters, — more than we
shall be able, with accuracy, to mention.
3	This wharf was washed away in the great gale of 1815. The present
stone wharf was built in 1817.
4	Much feeling was elicited, and parties were in rather unneighborly ar-
ray. Some desired a free passage opened for the fish into the pond; but
mill-privileges interposed. Tradition has it that the excited feelings of the
two parties became such that a cannon was placed in position by “ the her-
ring-party ; ” the bursting of the gun, killing the gunner, finally producing
an armistice.
6 Capt. Thomas Lewis, s. of Thos., m. Sarah Butler, and had Thomas
Feb. 16, 1806, who is the present town clerk, treasurer, selectman, and
some time representative, to whose courtesy we are under obligation.
6	Mr. Rufus Freeman, b. Oct. 18, 1773, was s. of Hon. Nath'l of Sand-
wich. He m. Hannah Palmer, dr. of Joseph Esq., Apr. 17, 1796, and had
Nath’l Apr. 13, 1797; Edward P. Apr. 18, 1805; and Martha June 23,
1807. He d. in Charleston, S. C.
7	See Yol. I. 565. Mr. Samuel Palmer, b. 1766, s. of Joseph Esq., m.
Temperance Dimmick Dec. 1, 1789, dr. Gen. Joseph, and had Mary Sept.
6, 1790; Harriet Mar. 17, 1792 ; Lucy Aug. 15, 1794; and Joseph Oct. 3,
1796. Job, b. 1747, bro. of Joseoh Esq. and s. of Rev. Sam’l, removed to
Charleston, S. C., and was fathei of Benj., Sarah, Edward, John, Anna,
Elisa., Hannah, Maria, William, e„c. Of this branch was Rev. Dr. Benj.
of Charleston, and Rev. Dr. Benj. of N. O.
59
VOL. II.466
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
mouth was organized. A Methodist Society was in-
corporated in 1811; the first meeting for organization
being held at Pocasset in June;1 and a meeting-house
was erected by the society in central Falmouth.
In 1812, this town, which had suffered severely from
the deprivations of Mr. Jefferson’s embargo,2 was again
subjected to the anxieties, from its peculiar locality and
exposedness, necessarily attending a state of war.3
Mr. John Lawrence d. Jan. 2, quite aged; Dea. Job
Parker, May 7, se. 71;4 James Hinckley Esq., May 10,
1 The society received its incorporation as “ the Methodist Society of
Falmouth and Sandwich; ” and Pocasset was, therefore, most convenient
for this business meeting.
*	From the effects of the embargo, the commercial interests of the town
perhaps never entirely recovered. Its large Southern trade being inter-
rupted and for so long a time effectually broken up, its able shipmasters
turned their attention in other directions and its navigation was dispersed
and greatly reduced.
8 During this war, the town was exposed to naval attacks from the ene-
my, quite as much as during the Revolutionary period. The bombardment
to which it was subjected was not unexpected ; the only surprise was that
these attacks were not more frequent and persistent. In fact, it is matter
of wonder that the enemy’s fire was not more destructive. Their anchorage
was but half a mile from the shore of the main settlement, and yet little
damage was inflicted. The Cong’l meeting-house and a few dwellings only
were slightly injured. The sacking and conflagration of the town was
threatened, and there were no adequate artillery defenses; the militia of
this and the neighboring towns, who were ordered out to prevent a land-
ing, seem to have been thought formidable by the British.
*	Thomas Parker, b. Aug. 24, 1669, s. of Rob’t of Be., was early in
town, an original member of the church here in 1707, and ord. deacon Mar.
6,1745. He m. Mary Jenkins Dec. 5,1693, and had Robert Dec. 18,1694;
Thankful 1697; Eben’r Sept. 9, 1700; Mary 1703; Prudence 1704; and
Elisha Jan. 15, 1706. Joseph, b. 1671, a bro. of the preceding, was also
an orig. ch. mem., and m. Mercy Whiston, sometimes inc. written Whetstone,
June 30, 1698, and d. 1732. They had Joseph Ap. 23, 1699; John Sept.
11, 1700; Benj. Feb. 16,1702 ; Timo. Nov. 27,1703 ; Seth Sept. 20,1705;
Silvs. Sept. 11, 1707; and Mercy May 21, 1709, who m. Rev. Mr. Palmer.
Capt. Joseph, b. 1699. m. Rebecca Freeman, dr. of Benj. of H., Nov. 15,
1734, and d. Mar. 21, 1755, ae. 56. They had Joseph July 1, 1736; Isaac
July 4, 1738; Rebecca 1740, who m. Rev. Wm. Whitwell of Marblehead
June 17, 1773 ; Fear 1742, who m. Silas Bourne Esq. of S., his 2d w., abt.
1770; Tempe. 1744, who m. Thos. Smith Jr. of S.; Mehit. 1747, who m.
Moses Allen July 4, 1773 ; and John Mar. 2, 1749, who d. Ap. 1, 1774 ae.
25, at S. John, b. 1700, had by his w. Elisa., Timo. May 17, 1725; Mary
1737 ; and John Ap. 27, 1739. Benjamin, b. 1702, and ord. deacon July
24, 1751, had by \is w. Hannah, Susanna 1727; Ann 1732; Sarah 1733 ;
Benj Feb. 26, 173 ?; Hannah 1738 ; Job Nov. 10, 1741, who was ord. dea-
con June 14, 1786, ind d. May 7, 1812 ; George May 27, 1745 ; and Na-ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
467
agid 45;1 Doct. Hugh G. Donaldson, June 20, aged
55;2 and Mr. Richard Lake, Nov. 7. Col. Barachiah
Bassett died June 13,1813, aged 81.3
In 1814, the capture of the British privateer, Retal-
iation, Capt. Porter, was the daring act of 32 men, led
by Capt. Weston Jenkins. All volunteered; and, with
one brass four-pound, muskets, swords, etc., embarked
on board the little sloop ‘ Two Friends,’ with trfe deter-
mination to dispose of so inconvenient an intruder up-
on the waters of the Sound. From Woods Hole, being
becalmed, they rowed to Tarpaulin Cove, where the
privateer lay at anchor. Arrived within three-fourths
of a mile of the Retaliation, its long gun was fired,
which the Two Friends chose to consider as a signal to
stop; and no sooner was anchor dropped, than a boat
put off from the privateer, with the captain and five
men. Capt. Jenkins’s men, with the exception t>f two
than Mar. 12, 1748. Seth, b. 1705, had by his w. Abigail, Mehit. 1742;
and Sam’l Aug. 10,1743, and removed to Boston. Silvanus, b. 1707, m.
Martha Mayhew of Chilmark 1748, and had Seth Oct. 12,1750; and Lydia
who m. Josiah Cotton Esq. of Plym., and 2d, Dr. Thos. Smith of S., his 2d
w. Seth, b. 1750, s of Silvs., m. Sophia Cotton of Plym. abt. 1776, and
had Silvs. 1777, who d. single 1811; Rossiter C. 1779, who d. 1804; Seth
1781, who d. 1811 ; Ward M. 1784; Lydia 1787, who d. 1848; and John
C. 1793. Joseph Esq. b. 1736, m. Hannah Stone of H., and had Joseph,
who d. abt. 1847, single; Rebecca who m. Sami Barker of Nantucket;
Isaac who m. Abigl. Pope and d. on the coast of Africa in a slaver; Henry
who m. Mary Grosvenor of Harvard, and d. in Batavia about 1800, leavg.
sons Isaac, Henry, and Grosvenor; Lucy who m. Nathl Whitwell of Boston
Dec. 4, 1796; Temperance who m. Lewin Pope of S.; John, lost at sea,
young; Fanny, d. y.; and Nathl who d. at Port au Prince. Ward M.
Esq. m. Hepzibah Davis of Tisbury July 1815, and 2d Marcia F. Lewis, dr.
David, May 1836 ; has a large family, and is a prominent and highly esteem-
ed citizen of N. Bedford.
1	Mr. Hinckley was a prominent and useful citizen, town clerk, treas-
urer, selectman, representative, and magistrate.
2	Doct. Hugh Geo. Donaldson was b. in London, Eng., June 21, 1757,
s. of Hugh. He m. Chloe Dimmiek, who d. 1797 ; 2d, Susanna Snow, who
d. 1806; and 3d, Hannah Hatch. Dr. D. was first to introduce vaccination
in Falrno., against some opposition. He was a leading member of the
Methodist Church.
8 Col. Bassett, an active whig during the Revolution, was descended
from Col. William of S., through Nathan who removed to Chilmark, and
William b. 1702 who m. Anne Mayhew. He m. Mercy Bourne June 4,
1761, and had Anne 1762; Mercy 1764 ; and Love 1775.468
HISTORY OF RARNSTARLE COUNTY.
or thr ;e, kept out of sight until the boat was along-
side and had made fast; then, at a signal previously
agreed on, twenty men rose up and pointed their mus-
kets into the boat, demanding a surrender. Then
putting twelve men on board the privateer boat, they
got under way the sloop also, boarded the privateer,
and earned her without resistance. They brought in
their prize, and its,cargo, consisting chiefly of plunder,
was here landed. The privateer had five guns, twelve
men, and two American prisoners.1 — Mr. Samuel Nye
died March 15, aged 68;8 and Mr. Seth Parker, March
28, aged 63.
In 1815, Thomas Jones Esq. died Aug. 12.3 Mr. Lot
Dimmick, June 15, 1816, aged 80;4 and Mr. Ichabod
1	See ‘Boston Yankee/ Nov. 4, 1814.
2	From Benjamin, first of the name in Sandwich, 1637, were John and
Ebenr., the first settlers at Mahaganset, now North Falmo. Each of these
had eldest sons named Benjamin; the son of John, b. in S. Nov. 24,
1673, and the son of Ebenr. b. in S. Nov. 7, 1677. Benjamin of F., who
m. Hannah Backhouse of Be. Feb. 23, 1698-9, was one of these cousins,
which, we are not positive. He had Ebenr. Dec. 23, 1699; Ichabod Aug.
3, 1703; Dorcas Jan. 28, 1706; Esther Feb. 4, 1707; John Ap. 1, 1710;
Joshua Aug. 22,1713 ; Seth Feb. 19,1714-15 ; and Benj. Feb. 5,1714-15.
Either, one of these last two dates is entered incorrectly, or Seth and Ben-
jamin belong to different families. We can obtain no solution of the diffi-
culty from the records ; and, as we find none of the lineage both interested
and sufficiently posted up in their descent to aid our investigations, we re-
linquish the task. Benjamin 3d m. Mary Swift of S. Dec. 1, 1740, and
had John Nov. 1, 1741; Eben’r Oct. 19, 1743 ; Sam’l Mar. 15, 1746 ; and
Iram Jan. 28, 1751. Samuel, above, had, by w. Deborah, Rebecca Aug.
3, 1772; Alden and Fear, gem., Nov. 2, 1774; Stephen Mar. 5, 1777; Lu-
cy July 17, 1780;. Timothy Dec. 4, 1782 ; Alvin Ap. 12, 1785; Francis
Feb. 7, 1788; Paul and Phebe, gem., Sept. 1, 1790; James Jan. 14, 1793;
and Samuel Dec. 22, 1795. There is, however, a further difficulty in de-
termining the lineal descent of the above Samuel who d. 1814, inasmuch as
the F. register contains two contemporary and separate family records of
“ children of Benj. 3d and his wife Mary ” — the one we have given above;
the other is “ Samuel b. July 10, 1739 ; Nathan Feb. 28, 1744 ; Hepzibeth
Oct. 7, 1740 ; Rebecca Dec. 20, 1743; and Hannah Nov. 18, 1747.” As
the Samuel first-named has a brother Iram, we presume he was of the for-
mer family.
8 Thomas Jones Esq. was long a prominent and highly respectable
citizen and justice of the peace; but not much in public life.
4 Mr. Lot Dimmick was bro. of Gen. Joseph, and b. 1737. He was
energetic and daring, like his brother, — never shrinking from the post of
danger; the right-hand man of Gen. D. on all occasions, because reliable;ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
469
Hatch, July 30. Mr. Solomon Nye, Feb. 11,1817; and
Capt. Robinson Crocker, July 14, same year, aged 32.1
Col. David Nye d. July 14,1819, aged 70.2
In 1821, June 20, the 2d Church was organized, dis-
tinct from the ancient Congregational of which it had
heretofore made a part This church, connected with
the parish at East Falmouth, as then known,—the
locality of its meeting-house since called Hatchville,
where formerly the minister of the t)wn, subsequently
known as the minister of the 1st Church, long offici-
ated a proportionate part of the time,—was now to be
supplied with undivided ministerial services. The Fal-
mouth Bank was incorporated Feb. 14. Chas. Sanford
Esq. d. June 5; and Mr. Timothy Bourne, Nov. 22.3
In 1822, July 21, Rev. Silas Shores was installed
over the 2d Congregational Church. That eminent
citizen and distinguished patriot, Gen. Joseph Dimmick
but always deferring to the latter’s superior judgment and tact. On his
tomb-stone is written, “ He merited the noblest of mottos, — an Honest
man.” His stlf-possession is illustrated by an anecdote that is told of him
in respect to an adventure, two sloops being fitted out here in the Revolu-
tionary War, on one occasion, to capture a valuable prize, — a loaded brig
which lay in Nantucket harbor. As the sloops approached the brig, Dim-
mick handled his gun with dexterity, — his aim each time being “ to get two
Britishers in range.” He was a lieut. in the company of Capt. Job
Crocker when marched to Rhode Island; was some time stationed at
Tiverton, and some time at Dorchester near Boston.
1	Capt. Robinson Crocker, s. of Capt. Joseph. He m. Elisa. Bunce
of Wethersfield, Ct. in Charleston, S. C., May 26,1825, and d. in Havana;
the decease of his w. occurring there about two months previous. She had
been left in Cuba, on a former voyage from Charleston, for the recovery
of health; her husband returned to learn his bereavement and to make
his grave beside her. Capt. C. was greatly esteemed wherever known.
2	Col. David Nve was a justice of the peace, and 14 years a represent-
ative of this town. He was long known in military life, and was a worthy
citizen.
3	Mr. Timothy Bourne was, with Benj., Samuel, Nathaniel, and
Nathan, in direct descent, through Samuel, from Hon. Ezra, through Sam-
uel, who m. LTIomedian, and had, besides the preceding, Sarah, who m.
Swift, and Elizabeth, who m. Chase. Benj. m. Beale, and had Joseph.
Samuel m. Leonard, and had Prince, Earl, Benj., Cynthia, and Dedamia.
Nath’l m. Tobev, and had Nath’l, Reuben, Sam’l, Mercy, Sarah, Mary,
Martha, Matilda, Mehit., and Rebecca. Nathan m. Jones, and had Ezra,
Sam’l, Nathan, Micah, Mahershalalhashbag, Jane, Elisa., and Lucy. Timo-
thy m. Leonard, and had Melinda, Elisa., Anne, etc.4.70
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
died September 21, greatly respected, beloved, and
lamented.1
1 Gen. Joseph Dimmick was early in his country’s service. He had
been a lie^t. of militia under Gen. Abercrombie, at Ticonderoga. At the
commencement of the Revolution, he at once took a bold and decided stand.
The cause of liberty and independence was espoused by him in faith and
zeal, with unflinching firmness and determination. He represented this
town in the general court of 1779 ; in 1788 was appointed high sheriff,
which office he held 20 years; was elected to the senate in 1808, and con-
tinued three years; and in 1808, was appointed justice of the peace et quo-
rum, and also of the court of sessions. Every trust reposed in him he
executed with dignity, fidelity, and honor. He was, withal, a consistent
Christian. On public religious services, he was a constant attendant; and
in the domestic circle, the uniformly-devout worshipper. As a public man,
or private citizen, he was public-spirited, humane, generous, always cour-
teous and kind; his affectionate disposition was ever marked by unusual
fondness for, and attentions to, little children, who seldom passed by him in
the street, without a kindly recognition, and in return were always proud of
having “ made their manners to Gen. Dimmick.” We well remember this
trait; for his intimacy with our honored parent gave us frequent oppor-
tunities, when a child, of seeing him under the parental roof and under
his own. His personal appearance was that of one of Nature’s noblemen;
his heavy and shaggy brow, finely-chiselled features, his noble form, all
bespeaking for him a combination of true greatness and excellence. As a
patriot, he stood conspicuous; and yet so modest and unassuming that the
respect shown him seemed to be regarded by him as unmerited kindness.
When in Boston, at a certain time, on business, and receiving a formal and
very unexpected invitation from Gov. Hancock, to dine, he was amazed
to find so large a party of eminent men and notable ladies assembled, and,
on entering the dining-hall, was still more astonished, when particularly
assigned by Gov. H. to the seat of honor at the table. His daring exploits
are generally and chiefly dwelt upon; but his honest patriotism, hi3 uniform
integrity, his symmetry of character, are, after all, his crowning glory. We
shall be expected, however, we suppose, to relate a few of the many inci-
dents that illustrate his bravery and determined promptitude and energy.
During the Revolutionary struggle, a messenger arrived at Col. D.’s (he was
then col.) in the evening, giving information that two British privateers
were at Old Town Harbor with a prize schooner just taken. The col., in
a few minutes, mustered 25 men, proceeded with them to Woods Hole,
procured a sloop, and sailed for Edgartown, Capt. Thomas Jones acting as
pilot. Leaving Woods Hole at 2 o’clock, they reached Old Town Harbor
at the first dawning of day, and saw, to their surprise, that a British ship-
of-war was in Holmes’ Hole Harbor. Determined, however, not to be foiled,
although they saw they could not weather the outward privateer, they ran
past her while she was in the act of firing signals for the ship to come to
her relief; boarded and carried the innermost privateer, though manned by
88 men, and, in a few moments, although cut off from a retreat in the
direction of Woods Hole, or any part of Falmouth, put the vessels before
the wind and ran for Oyster Island, in Barnstable, where they arrived safe
with their prize, landed their 33 manacled prisoners, and sent them off to
Boston by land as prisoners of war. At another time, a schooner sent to
the Connecticut River for corn — then extremely scarce in these parts, and
selling at $3 per bushel — was intercepted on her return, just as she was
entering the Sound. The captain of the craft escaped to the shore in his'
boat, distressed by the loss of his vessel and cargo; and hastened fromANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
471
In 1823, Nov. 26, the pastorate of Rev. Mr. Lincoln
terminated, at his own request, after a ministry of 33
years.1
In 1824, ReV. Benjamin Woodbury, having been called
to the pastorate as the successor of Mr. Lincoln, was
ordained June 9. Mr. Wallet Robinson died April 11,
as. 57; Capt. William Bodfish died July 30, ae. 54;2
Mr. Lothrop Lewis, in the month of September;3 Capt.
Woods Hole to Col. Dimmick, whom he reached at midnight, the distance
being about 7 miles, and to whom he communicated the facts. Col. D.
jumped at once from his bed; whilst dressing, gave the captain encouraging
words and directed him, for economy of time, to go at once to the residence
of his brother Lot and arouse him. The colonel and Mr. Lot Dimmick
soon succeeded in mustering 20 resolute men, and started for Woods Hole.
They there procured three whale-boats, and proceeded silently to Tarpaulin
Cove, arriving just before daybreak. It was very cold, and the colonel
allowed his men to land and kindle a fire in a hollow where they would be
unobserved and there wait for morning. At the first glimmering of day,
the privateer, with his prize, was discovered lying at anchor in the cove.
Col. Dimmick and men were, another moment, in their boats, pulling
silently, but vigorously, for the prize. They were fired on from both vessels,
but quickly returned the compliment, boarded the prize, retook it, got
immediately under weigh, and ran it ashore at the west end of the Vine-
yard. The privateer followed, and was repulsed; the tide rose, and in a
few hours the schooner was safely moored at Woods Hole, to the great joy
of the inhabitants. We might narrate other incidents; but, quantum suffi-
ext. Gen. D. was courage-inspiring, prompt in all emergencies, and always
found brave men who were ready at his lead.
1	See Vol. I. 669.
2	See pp. 142, 143. Capt. Bodfish, b. 1789, in Sandwich, m. Deborah
T. Hatch, dr. of Shubael, Jan. 30, 1812, who d. July 14, 1815, se. 21, and
2d, Mary Crocker, dr. Joseph, Dec. 1, 1816; and had Mary F. Nov. 7,
1813, who m. Edward Landers May 6,1832; William Feb. 23, 1815; Bob-
inson C. May 11, 1819; Deborah F. August 14, 1821, who m. Geo. W.
Woodbury Nov. 16, 1850, and d. May 5, 1851 ; and Joseph C. May 17,
1823, lost at sea, April 15, 1845. The widow d. in New Bedford Oct. 27,
1847. Capt. Bodfish was an able and enterprising shipmaster.
8 See Vol. I. 614. The ancestor of this family, George Lewis, came
over from Eng., 1633, and was a clothier, from E. Greenwich, Kent Co.
He was dis. from the Plyrn. Church, with others, to the ch. in Scit. Sept. 20,
1635, and was in Be. 1640-1. He d. 1663, his will being pr. Mar. 3,
1662-3. His first w. was Sarah Jenkins, whom he m. in Eng., and who was
sister of Edward, the clothier, who came afterwards ; his 2d w. was Mary
----; and his children were Mary, b. 1623 in Eng., who m. John Bryant,
of Scit. Nov. 14, 1643; Thomas; George; James 1631 in Eng.; John, b.
in Scit. Mar. 2, 1637-8; Ephraim July 23, 1641; Sarah Feb. 2, 1642-3,
who m. 1st, Jas. Cobb, and 2d, Jonathan Sparrow Nov. 23, 1698; Nath’l
1645 ; Joseph 1647 ; Edward; and, some say, Jabez—the 4th b., who d.
single. Thomas, s. of Geo. 1st., m. Mary Davis June 15, 1653, and 2d,
Hannah —■-. He had James Mar. 31, 1654; Thomas July 15, 1656;
Mary 1659 ; Sa*n’l May 14, 1662, d. inf.; Sarn’l April 23, 1673, by 2d m.;472
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Joseph Crocker, Nov. 20, ae. 63;1 and Capt. Zimri Tobey,
Dec. 7, sb. 57.2
In 1825, in the latter part of May, or early part of
June, occurred that afflictive disaster at sea by which
this and adjoining towns were bereft of a large com-
pany of enterprising and estimable citizens, and many
families shrouded in mourning.3 Of the number, were
Mr. Frederick Parker,4 Mr. Albert Robinson, Mr. Jesse
and Hepzibah 1674. Lt. James, b. 1631, s. of Geo. 1st., was selectman,
one of the “ select court,” etc., and m. Sarah Lane, dr. of Geo. of Hing.
Oct. 31, 1655, and d. Oct. 14, 1713, ae. 82. They had John Oct. 29,1656;
Samuel April 10, 1659; Sarah Mar. 4, 1661, who m. 1st, Thomas Lincoln
and 2d, Rt. Waterman; James June 3, 1664; Susanna; and Ebenezer.
Mr. George Jr., s. of Geo. 1st, m. Mary Lumbert, dr. of Bernard of Scit-
uate Dec. 1, 1654, and d. Mar. 20, 1709-10. They had George Sept.,
1655, who was one of the Narraganset grantees ; Mary 1657 ; Sarah 1660 ;
Hannah 1662; Melatiah Jan. 13, 1664; Bathsheba 1667; Jabez June 10,
1670, who m. Expe. Hamblin, Feb. 20, 1695, and had John 1698; Benj.
Nov. 22, 1671; Jonathan July 25, 1674; John Dec. 1, 167G; and Nathan
July 26, 1678. John, b. 1638, s. of Geo. 1st, was slain in the Rehoboth
battle, 1676. Nathaniel, b. 1645, s. of Geo. 1st, removed to Swansey,
and d. 1683. Joseph, b. 1647, s. of Geo. 1st, m. Mary Jones and removed
to Swansey. They had Joseph Jan. 6, 1672, from whom is the Pepperell
branch; and Sybil 1674. Edward, s. of Geo. 1st, m. Hannah Cobb, dr.
Elder Hy. May 9, 1661, and had Hannah 1662; Eleazer June 26, 1664;
John Jan. 1, 1666 ; and Thos. 1669. Ebenezer m. Anna Lothrop 1691,
and had Sarah 1692; Susanna 1694; James Aug. 4, 1696; Ebenezer
May 9, 1699; Hannah 1701; Lothrop June 13, 1702; George April 5,
1704; Nath’l Jan. 20, 1707-8 ; John July 15, 1709 ; and David and Abi-
gail, gem., Nov. 8, 1711. From this branch was the above Lothrop, who d.
1324, one generation intervening.
1 See Vol. I. 564. Capt. Joseph Crocker, b. 1761, s. of Timothy, d.
in Charleston, S. C. He m. Martha Dlmmick, dr. Gen. Joseph, Nov. 23,
1785, and had Robinson July 15, 1786; Mary Sept. 30, 1788, who m.
Capt. Wm. Bodfish, 2d w., Dec. 1,1816 ; Joseph D. Mar. 14, 1792, drowned
Mar. 8,1798; Sophia Feb. 23,1794, d. 1816; Caroline Aug. 17, 1798,
who m. Jno. Hatch June 19, 1851; Martha D. June 26,1800, who d. 1855 ;
Joseph D. June 1, 1802, d. inf.; Julia A. May 28, 1804, who m. Ezra
Bourne of S. Sept. 20, 1824, and 2d, Warren N. Bourne June 10, 1835;
Albert July 3, 1806, who d. in Boston, Sept. 3, 1828; and Frances L. Jan.
14, 1811, whod. 1852.
* Capt. Zimri Tobey d. at Charleston, S. C. His obituary says, “ Few
men have in life been more beloved, or in death more lamented.” He was
father of Mr. Henry Tobey.
8 See p. 147, and Vol. I. 625.
4Mr. Frederick Parker, b. Sept. 10, 1777, m. Rebecca Sandford, dr.
of Benj. Esq., and had children: Betsy; Mary; Rebecca, who m. Rev.
Mr. Pettingil; Nancy; Sarah; Cynthia, who m. Thomas Lewis, Esq.; and
Charles.ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
473
Gifford, and others of this town.1 Mr. Foster Hatch
d. Ap. 3,18*26, as. 34.2 Mr. Micah R. Swift d. June 22,
1827, £e. 29; and Mr. Philip Phinney Mar. 27.3 Mr.
Thomas Baker, Nov. 13.
In 1828, Rev. Silas Shores resigned his pastoral
relation to the 2d Church, June 17; after which event,
the Church and congregation, without compromising
the identity of either organization, again united for a
time with the original or first parish in supporting
public worship.
In 1829, Benjamin Sanford Esq. died, April 13,
aged 81.4
In 1833, Rev. Benj. Woodbury’s resignation of his
charge was accepted, Sept. 19, after a pastorate of
about nine years.5 The same year, Aug. 21, Rev.
Paul Jewett was engaged as minister of a congrega-
tion worshipping at North Falmouth; and, Dec. 25,
the 3d. Cong. Church was organized, of which Mr.
Jewett was installed pastor.6
In 1834, Rev. Josiah Bent was installed pastor of
the 1st Church, Feb. 5, and Rev. Mr. Jewett retired
from the pastorate of the 3d Church.
In 1835, Rev. Daniel B. Tappan succeeded to the
pastorate made vacant by the dismission of Mr. Jew-
1	We have not been able to obtain in season a full list of those lost by
this disaster; nor have we reliable accounts of other similar casualties and
fatalities that have, at different periods, filled the hearts of many here with
sadness.
2	Mr. Foster Hatch was s. of Shubael. He m. Celia Fish, dr. of Dea.
Thomas, who became 2d, the w. of Dr. Aaron Cornish.
3	Mr. Philip Phinney was selectman of the town nine years.
4	Mr. Sanford was a highly-respected citizen, a magistrate, and deputy
of the Barnstable collection district, for this town. Being in Barnstable on
official business, he mistook his way, in a dark and stormy night, and fell
from a wharf and was drowned.
5	Rev. Mr. Woodbury grad. Dart. College, 1817. After leaving Fal-
mor ith, he removed to Ohio, and died. His ministry was highly acceptable
and prosperous.
6	Rev. Mr. Jewett had previously been settled in Fairhaven, also in
Scituate. He was a native of Rowley.
vol. ii.	60474
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
ett;1 and, April 22, the associate connection of the
1st and 2d Churches was dissolved, — in order to pro-
vide and maintain each its own minister.
In 1836, Rev. Timothy Davis was installed over the
2d Church.2
In 1837, Feb. 22, Rev. Mr. Bent retired from his
charge ;3 and, also, the next year, Rev. Mr. Davis.
In 1838, Rev. Henry B. Hooker succeeded Mr. B&nt.4
Mr. Shubael Hatch d. Aug. 9, se. 81 j5 Mr. Joseph Hatch
1	Rev. Mr. Tapp an was a grad, of Bowd. Col., 1822. His pastorate was
brief. Succeeding him, for generally brief periods, were Rev. Gideon
Dana, Rev. John Pike, Rev. Asaliel Cobb, Rev. C. C. Beaman, and others.
2	Rev. Mr. Davis had formerly been minister of Wellfleet.
3	Rev. Mr. Bent was from Milton, and grad. H. C., 1822. He had for-
merly been settled in Weymouth. He now went to Amherst and there
died.
4	Rev. Mr. Hooker grad. Mid. Coll. 1821. He had recently retired
from pastoral charge at Long Meadow.
5	Mr. Shubael Hatch, long time innholder, had, by his m. with Debo-
rah Turner of Soituate, Deborah T., who m. Capt. Wm. Bodfish, and d.
July 14, 1815, ae. 23; Hervey, who d. June 23, 1812, ae. 22; and Foster,
who m. Celia Fish, and d. April 3, 1826, ae. 34. The lineage of this family
runs back to Thomas, who came over from Kent, 1634, b. in Sandwich;
was made freeman in Boston, May 14, 1634; proposed freeman of Yar-
mouth, Jan. 7, 1638-9; and mem. of ch. in Be., June 1, 1641. He d.
1661, leaving a wid. Grace. Had two ch. viz: Jona,, “only son,” b. in
Eng., prob. 1625; and Lydia, b. in Eng., who m. Hy. Taylor of Be. Dec.
19, 1650. Jonathan, from Be., had lands in this town 1660; a house
built here, soon after; had seven children born in Be. and four in Succon-
nessit. He m. Sarah Rowley (Mr. Savage says, Hannah) at Be., Ap. 11,
1646, and had Mary 1647 ; Thomas Jan. 21, 1648-9 ; Jona. May 17, 1652 ;
Joseph Mar. 7, 1654; Benj. Sept. 7, 1655; Nath’l June 5, 1657; Samuel
Oct. 11, 1659; Moses Mar. 4, 1G63; Sarah 1664; Mark Ap. 27, 1667 ;
and Lydia 1669. Thomas, b. 1649, m. Abigail Codman of Be. Feb. 23,
1679, and had Jona. Ap. 9, 1693 ; Nath’l 1698 ; and others. Jonathan,
b. 1652, m. Abigail Weeks in Be. Dec. 4,1676, and had Jona. Jan, 5,1678 ;
Sarah 1682; Mary 1684; Nathan 1693; and Eben. 1696. Joseph, b.
1654, who succeeded to the paternal mansion and d. Feb. 16, 1738, ae. 84,
m. Amy Allen Dec. 7, 1683, and had Lydia 1684; Amy 1687; Joseph
Aug. 3, 1689, who set. in Tolland, Ct., but d. on a visit to this town 1751 ;
Iehabod Oct. 21, 1691 ; Ruth 1693; Joanna 1696; Elisa. 1697 ; Bethia
1700; Eben. Mar. 26, 1702; and Barnabas Feb. 4, 1704. Benja-
min, b. 1655, m. Mary Hamblin (so says Be. rec.,but F. rec. says Lumber)
June 17, 1678. She d., and he m. 2d, Alice (the record has it Ellis')-.
His children were Abig’l 1679; Mary 1781; Nath’l Feb. 3, 1684; Benj.
Oct. 17, 1686 ; John Feb. 16, 1689; Elisa. 1692; Mehtiah 1693; Timo.
1695 ; Hannah 1698 ; and Solo. 1704. Samuel, b. 1659, had a w. Lydia,
and children, Eleazer Sept. 23, 1694; Sam’l Feb. 28, 1696; James Aug.
23, 1697 ; and Lydia 1699. Dea. Moses, b. 1663, “8th child,” who d.
May 20, 1747, ae. 83, m. Elisa. Thacher, dr, John, of Y. Oct. 18, 1699, and
) ad Elisa, who m. Timo. Hallet, of Y.; Moses, jr.; and Silvanus.ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
475
also died this yew. Nathaniel Shiverick Esq. died
April 22, 1839, se. 56;1 and Capt. Micah Sampson,
May 19, ae. 66.
In 1840, Oct. 15, Rev. James D. Lewis became the
minister of the 2d. Church and society.2 Mr. Shubael
Lawrence died Sept. 26, aged 44.3
In 1842, the Friends’ meeting-house gave way to a
new edifice, being the third occupied by the denomi-
nation in this town.4 Mr. Abner Davis d. July, 1843,
as. 93 ;5 Mr. Robinson Gifford, a venerable member of
Friends’ meeting, d. Sept. 14, ae. 74; Mr. John Swift
d. Oct. 7, ae. 65; and, in Dec., Mr. Reuben Swift, ae. 63.
Mr. Moses Hatch d. Dec. 2,1844, ae. 92.
1	Rev. Samuel Shiverick, the progenitor of the families of the name,
had Sam’l, who was bap. at Be. 1697 ; Damaris, bap. at Be. 1698; Marga-
ret ; Thomas, who was representative 1717 and 15 years after; and Bethia.
Thomas, who was rep. 1746, had by his w. Mary, a son Nath’l; also Oct-
18, 1723, a dr. Hannah. We hope to be able to give a more full gen. of
the name in the Annals of Dennis.
2	Rev. James D. Lewis was a native of this town, and had been settled
in the ministry at Reading where he was ord. June, 1834.
3	Mr. Shubael Lawrence’s bequest to the town for the endowment of
an academy has been already mentioned. The 2d Church and society
also became greatly aided by a legacy; the sum of $10,000 was left it by
Mr. L., for the support of the Gospel ministry, with a sum additional for
the repairs of their meeting-house. Mr. L. d. unmarried. He was s. of
Shubael b. Oct. 1766, who, by his w. Dinah, had Francis Sept. 19, 1795;
Shubael Sept. 27, 1797 ; and Silvanus N. Aug. 3, 1801.
4	The building, now supplanted by a new one, was built in 1775.
5	The families of the name in this town, are chiefly descended from
Dolor Davis (it is sometimes written Dollard), who came from Kent,
Eng., 1634. See Annals of Be. Mr. SaVage says, Mr. D wasb. in Benne-
field, Northamptonshire. He was in Camb. 1634; in Dux. 1640; and,
with his w., was dis. from the church in the latter place, 1648, to the ch. in
Be., — but was there much earlier. He m. Margery Willard, in Eng.,
prob. about 1618, sister of Maj. Simon, and dr. of Richard; and had a 2d
w., Joanna Bursley, wid. of John, and dr. of Rev. Joseph Hull. Mr. Sav-
age supposes his children to have been, John; Nicholas; Simon, who m.
Mary Blood 16GO, and set. in Concord; Samuel, who m. Mary Meads 1660
or ’65, and set. in Concord ; Mary, who m. Thomas Lewis of Be. June 15,
1653 ; and Ruth, bap. at Be. Mar. 24, 1645, and m. Stephen Hall Dec. 3,
1663, son of wid. Mary of Concord. Mr. D. went to Concord 1656. The
Gen. Register says, “ Many of the name of Davis, in Rutland, Northboro’,
Holden, and Paxton, are descendants from Simon, and trace from Dolor
who d. in Be. 1673. Nicholas was in Be. before 1643; was in Taunton
1659 and mentioned as “of Sandwich.” John, “ s. of Dolor, carpenter,
who was prob. br. of Rt.,” was early in Be., and m. Hannah Linnell Mar.476
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1845,1 Mr. Joseph Dillingham, a respected mem-
ber of the society of Friends, d. April 2, se. 68 ;2 Capt.
Silas Jones, Ap. 20, se. 76;3 Hon. Braddock Dimmick,
15, 1648. His will dated May 10, 1701, was proved April 9, 1703. H*s
children were John Jan. 15, 1648-9 ; Samuel Dec. 15, 1651; Hannah .
Mary, gem., Jan. 3, 1653, the first of whom m. Jed. Jones 1681, and tL
other, Benj. Goodspeed 1676 and John Hinckley 1697 ; Joseph and Benj.,
gem., June 1656 ; Simon July 15, 1658, d. y.; Dolor Oct. 1, 1660; Jabez;
Timo.; and prob. Ruth, who m. Linnel. John, b. 1649, m. Ruth Good-
speed Feb. 2, 1674-5, 2d, Mary Hamblen Feb. 22, 1692, and 3d, Hannah
Bacon, wid., May 8, 1G99. He and his wife Hannah were of the church
organized in this town in 1707. Issue: John 1675, d. y.; Benj. Sept. 8,
1679, d. inf.; Benj. 1682; John Feb. 17, 1684; Nath’l July 17, 1686,
supposed to be the Nath’l who set. at “ Bourne’s River” in this town and
“(1. very aged” 1769, leaving Joseph b. 1728, who was f. of Dea Joseph,
who had Joseph about 1770, who had Nath’l; prob. Jabez 1691; Shubael
July 10, 1694 ; James Mar. 24, 1696 ; Eben. May 13, 1697; and Nicholas
Mar. 12, 1700. Joseph, b. 1656, prob. m. Mary Claghorn Mar. 28, 1682;
and had Simon or Simeon 1683; Mary 1685; Joseph 1687; and Robert
1689, and resided in Be., as did his brs. Dolor and Jabez. Dolor, b. 1660,
m. Hannah Linnel, Aug. 3, 1681, and had Shubael 1685; Thos. 1687;
Hannah 1689; Stephen 1690; Thankful 1696; Dan’l 1698; Dolor (per-
haps Job, as Gen. Reg. says) 1700; Noah 1702 ; and Remember 1704, (the
Reg. says this last was Mercy) ? who m. Morey. Jabez m. Experience
Linnell Aug. 20, 1689, and had Nathan Mar. 2, 1690; Sain’l 1692; Bath-
sheba 1694; Isaac 1696; Abigail 1698; Jacob 1699; and Mercy 1701.
Nathan, b. 1690, m. Elisa. Phinney Nov. 25, 1714, and had Jabez 1715 ;
Sarah 1717; Elisa. 1718; and Isaac 1720. Jacob, of H., prob. b. 1699,
m. Kezia Crosby, who d. 1732, and 2d, Mary Rogers of E. 1733, and had
Kezia 1732; Mary 1736 ; Susanna 1738; and Isaac 1741. Jonathan, b.
1749. s. of Stephen, m. Susanna Lewis, dying ae. 91 and his wid. se. 92, and
had Stephen, who “went to Falm.,” we suppose was descended from Robert
1st, the bro. of Dolor 1st.
1 The records this year mention the decease of Martha Hamilton,
Dec. 14, ae. 107. Such instances of longevity are very rare in any com-
munity ; but, perhaps the bills of mortality in the several Cape towns have,
in all past time, exhibited as numerous a list of persons living beyond the
age usually allotted to man, as can be furnished from the same extent of
population in any other part of the world. A few years since, Olive Fuller
died in Barnstable, at Marston’s Mills, ae. 103.
8 Mr. Edward Dillingham, s. of Henry the s. of Edward, was of S.,
anti d. Mar. 29, 1739. He m. Abigail Nye Sept. 26, 1695, and had Han-
nah July 12, 1696; Abigail Feb. 26, 1697-8; Simeon, Sept. 24, 1700;
Edward Mar. 12, 1704; Mary Oct. 22, 1705; Experience Mar. 9, 1707-8;
John Nov. 14, 1710; and Deborah June 7, 1716. Edward, Jr. by his w.
Elizabeth, had Cornelius May 25, 1724; Silvanus Nov. 1, 1725 ; Stephen
April 23, 1727; Remember, Dec. 18, 1730; Ignatius April 16, 1732 ; and
John, June 11, 1738. Ignatius, b. 1732, in. Deborah Gifford, and had
Remember, Content, Lydia, Stephen, Edward, Ruth, William, and Joseph.
Joseph, b. 177G, s. of Ignatius, m. Esther Rogers of Marshfield who d. 1856.
They had Stephen, Reuben, Deborah, Mary, Elisa., Abram, and Edward G.
Braddock had by his w. Rhoda, Paul Mar. 29, 1765; and by Elisa. Pitts,
had Pitts Dec. 19, 1770, who went to Augusta, Me.
J Capt. Jones had sons Capt. Rowland R b. May 4, 1816, who d. MayANNALS OP FALMOUTH.
477
Ap. 30, ae. 84;1 Mr. Major Hatch, Nov..5, ae. 76; and
Mr. Ephraim Parker, Nov. 12, ae. 76.
In 1846, Rev. James D. Lewis resigned his pastoral
relation to the 2d Church. Succeeding Mr. Lewis were
Rev. Messrs. Childs, Hyde, Clarke, and Ford, at short
27, 1850, while on a voyage to the Pacific Ocean ; also Horatio N. who d.
in Batavia, ae. 22.
1 For a biographical notice of this prominent citizen, see Vol. I. 647;
and, of Gen. Joseph Dimmick, see Yol. I. 618. Prince, b. 1763, s. of
Gen. D., d. Sept. 28, 1841; Joseph, b. 1770, d. Ap. 16, 1815; and An-
selm, b. 1772, was drowned Jan. 10, 1816. Hon. Braddock Dimmick,
b. 1761, s. of Gen. D., was ever animated with the same true patriotism
and virtue that distinguished his honored father. He was highly esteemed,
whether in his position 35 yrs. as an officer of the church, as a representa-
tive of this town 8 years in the House, as a senator, several years, or in
municipal offices — 10 yrs. selectman and the same length of time town
clerk and treasurer. His commission as justice of the peace dated from
1808, and as Quorum unus from 1829. He went to his grave,
“ As Autumn’* mellow fruit descends to earth; ”
was sincerely lamented, and his whole life is associated with the progress of
his native town. The engraving we present is a filial tribute from his son,
Mr. William F. Dimmick. Elder Thomas Dimmick, prob. originally
Dymocke, who is so identified with the early history of Barnstable, and d.
1658, leaving a wid., Anne, and children, was the ancestor. He had prob.
Elisa, who m. Knyvet Sears; perhaps John; certainly Tim., bap. 1640, d.
inf.; Mehit., bap. Ap. 17, 1642, who m. Rd. Child; and Shubael, bap.
Sept. 15, 1644. He had also a s. and dr., gem., who d. inf. 1641. Ens.
Shubael, b. 1644, who, it is said, went finally, with a part of his family to
Mansfield, Ct., and d. Oct. 29, 1732, ae. 91, was deputy several years, select-
man, and ensign. In M. he was known as Deacon D. By m. with Joanna
Bursley 1663, he had Thos. 1664 ; John 1666 ; Timo. 1668; Shubael 1673;
Joseph 1675 ; Mehit. 1677; Benj. 1680; Joanna 1682; and Thankful
1684. Thomas, b. 1664, was a Capt. at Damariscotta in the Indian war,
and killed 1697, — a brave officer. See Magnalia. By his w. Desire, who m.
2d, Col. John Thacher 1698, he had Mehit. 1686, who m. Capt. John Davis,
1705 ; Temp. 1689, who m. Benjamin Freeman of H. 1709; Edward July
5, 1692; Thomas Dec. 25, 1694; and Desire 1696, who m. Job Gorham
1719. John, b. 1656, m. Elisa. Lumbert 1689, and had Sarah 1690; Anne
1692; Mary 1695 ; Theophilus 1696, who m. Sarah Hinckley Oct. 1, 1722,
and both joined the Falmouth church 1736; Tim. 1698; Eben. 1700;
Thankful 1702 ; Elisa. 1704; and David 1706. Timothy, b. 1670, went
to Ct., and from him is, in descent, Col. Dimmick, now of the U. S. army.
Shubael, b. 1673, m. Tabitha Lothrop 1699, and had Sam’l 1702 ; David
1704; Shubael 1706 ; Joanna 1708; and Mehit. 1711. Joseph,!). 1675,
m. Lydia Fuller May 17, 1699, as per S. rec., and had Thos. 1700 ; Bethia
1702; Mehit. 1707; Ensign 1709; Ichabod 1711; Abigail 1714; Pharaoh
1717; and David Dec. 22, 1721. A petition of Joseph, June 14, 1727, to
the Gen. Court, sets forth that he received a grievous wound in the late
battle at Norridgewock. David, b. 1704, m. Thankful Cobb Oct. 14,
1746. Edward, b. 1692, had, besides others, by Hannah his wife, Thomas
Mar. 16, 1727, who m Elisa. Bacon Oct. 7, 1755, and had Charles, from
whom was John L. and Col. Charles.478
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
intervals. The tenure of the pastoral office has be-
come so precarious that we may not attempt further
to note all its frequent changes. Mr. Lemuel Green d.
this year, Oct. 31, ae. 94; and Mr. Abraham Swift d.
Nov. 19, ae. 84.1
In 1847, Mr. Sylvanus Wing d. March 3, aged 56, a
member of the Society of Friends; Mr. John Crocker
d. April 6, aged 74; Mr. Ebenezer Lewis, Dec. 6, aged
88; also Mr. Moses Hatch.
In 1848, Mr. Benjamin Nye d. May 26, aged 74;
Thomas Fish Esq. d. Sept. 24, aged 86;2 and Mr. Jon-
athan Green d. Nov. 8, aged 91.
1	Mr. Benjamin Swift of S., who m. Hannah Wing Feb. 24, 1703-4,
and had Samuel Sept. 11, 1704; Mary Oct. 11, 1706, who m. Gifford;
Content Dec. 12, 1708, whom. Zachs. Wing Mar. 15, 1732 ; Zebulon April
15, 1712, all in S.; and, afterwards, Hannah; Elisa.; and Benjamin, who
m. Waitstill Bowerman, dr. of Joseph of F. He appears as a professed Quaker
in this town 1731. His son Zebulon was f. of Samuel; Joseph; Abram
(or Abraham), who m. Olive Lawrence May 4, 1799; Hannah, who m.
Dillingham; Dorothy, who m. Hatch; Elisa., who m. Gifford; Rebecca;
Deborah, who m. Tripp; Huldah, who m. Bowerman; Jemima, who m.
Landis, or Landers; and Barnabas.
2	Thomas Fish Esq. was, in many respects, a remarkable man; “ a
patriot of the Revolution, 44 years a soldier of the cross, and 24 years dea-
con of the 1st church, distinguished through life for symmetry of Christian
character, uniform and cheerful piety, and eminent usefulness in the service
of his Divine Redeemer.” No man could leave a purer record. Whether
in public or in private walks of life, the same uprightness, goodness, and
consistency marked his course ; religion always diffusing in his very counte-
nance a divine lustre that impressed the beholder with the thought,
“ God waits not the last moment, — owns His friend
On this side death, and points him out to man.”
The most scrutinizing eye could discover no defect; the same manly
bearing, the same childlike meekness, the same noble sensibilities of mind
and heart, the same lineaments of heavenly birth, were manifest under all
circumstances; and when, in old age,
“ His feeble body sought its native dust,
His heaven-born spirit sought its native skies,”
the saying of. Holy Writ was confirmed: “ Mark the perfect man, and behold
the upright; for the end of that man is peace.”
“ The Christian dwells, like Uriel, in the sun:
Meridian evidence puts doubt to flight,
And ardent hope anticipates the skies.”
The departure of a citizen so universally revered and beloved, so exem-
plary and influential, so useful and honored, seemed a public calamity. ItANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
479
In 1849, a Congregational Church was organized at
Waquoit, being the 4th in the town. Mr. John Tobey
d. Mar. 21, ae. 78; Mr. Nathaniel Swift d. Sept. 22, ae.
73 ; and Mr. Elisha Gifford, Oct. 30, ae. 71.
In 1850, Mr. Silvanus Hamblin d. Feb. 14, ae. 88;
Mr. Joseph Hatch, Feb. 17, ae. 92, selectman; and Mr.
Harrison Goodspeed, Oct. 10, ae. 56.1
In 1851, Capt. Zuriel Bourne d. Jan. 12, ae. 93; Mr.
is true, however, that the good men do lives after them; and also true
that their example survives. The aged and middle-aged continue to cher-
ish the memory of Dea. Fish with reverence and affection; and the young,
who never saw him, have listened to the story of his excellence with admir-
ing pride, and treasured the remembrance, it may be, to “ imitate and
live.” Dea. F. was not by mechanical profession, a ship-builder; but many a
well-constructed craft has been launched from his ship-yard in Quisset. At
the age of 17, he entered the army in the revolutionary war; after the
return of peace, was engaged in school-teaching; then went into the West
India trade and lumbering-business, commanding a vessel several years. In
1802, a company was formed for ship-building, and Mr. F. was appointed
its agent. The business was prosecuted with vigor until the war of 1812.
In 1816, a justice of the peace and in 1837 commissioned Quorum unus,
he was also 21 years in the legislature and 20 years selectman of this
town, besides filling other offices. He was s. of Mr. Samuel Fish who
m. Sarah Dimmick, and had eight children. The subject of this notice,
Thomas Esq., b. Dec. 28, 1762, m. Susanna Crowell, dr. of David and
Sarah, Dec. 10, 1788, and had Cynthia Oct. 29, 1791 ; Celia Sept. 5, 1793;
Susan E. July 8, 1795 ; Milton July 31, 1799; Thos. Oct. 29, 1802; Joseph
C. Aug. 11, 1804; David W. Ap. 2, 1807; and Henry L. May 30, 1809.
The engraving opposite has been furnished by his children, — Dea. Prince
Jenkins, and Dr. Aaron Cornish, sons-in-law, participating.
xMr. Goodspeed, b. Aug. 20, 1791, was s. of Walley of S. His death
was occasioned by falling from the staging of a house he was engaged in
Jbuilding. A good citizen and much lamented. The progenitor, Roger
Goodspeed, was early in Be., and m. Alice Layton, by whom he had
Nathaniel Oct. 6, 1642; John 1645; Mary 1647, who m. Sam’l Hinckley
Dec. 14, 1664; Benj. May 6, 1649; Ruth Ap. 10, 1652, who m. John
Davis Jr. Feb. 2, 1674-5; Eben. 1655; and Elisa. 1658. Nathaniel
m. Elisa. Bursley 1666. John m. Experience Holway Jan. 9, 1668, and
had Mercy 1669; Sam’l 1670; John June 1, 1673; Experience 1676;
Benj. Mar. 31, 1679; Rose 1680, who m. Isaac Jennings July 10, 1700;
and Bathsheba 1683. Benjamin m. Mary Davis, and had Mary 1678.
Ebenezer m. Lydia Crowell 1677, and had Benj. 1678; Mehit. 1681;
Alice 1683; Eben. Sept. 10, 1685; Mary 1687; Susanna 1689; Patience
1692; Ruth 1694; Lydia 1696; Roger Oct. 14, 1698; Reliance 1701;
and Moses Nov. 24,1704. John, s. of John, m. Remember Buck of S. Feb.
16, 1696-7, and had Sam’l; Cornelius; and John; also drs. Benjamin
Jr., s. of John 1st., m. Susanna Allen 1710, and had Joseph Jan. 1, 1711.
Benjamin, s. of Ebenezer, m. Hope Lumbert 1707, and had Jabez 1708 ;
Jane 1709 ; James 1711; David 1713; Nathan 1715 ; Patience 1718; and
Jona. 1720.480
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Samuel Phinney, Feb. 25, se. 80; and Mr. Noah Hatch,
Nov. 21, ae. 80.
In 1852, Elijah Swift Esq. d. Jan. 19, se. 77;1 Mr.
Nathaniel Lewis, May 14, se. 78;2 and Mr. John Crow-
ell, July 25, se. 80.
In 1853, Mr. Prince Gifford, a Friend, 9 yrs. select-
man, d. Feb. 23, se. 82; also Dea. Solomon Davis, Jan.
21, se. 87.
In 1854, James D. Lewis Esq., attorney at law, died
Mar. 7, se. 45.3 Ebenezer Nye Esq. d. Oct. 11, se. 73;
1	Elijah Swift Esq., b. 1774, s. of William, and grandson of William,
was representative 12 yrs., justice of the peace from 1831, Quorum unus
from 1840, of the Governor’s Council 2 yrs., and a gent, of much enter-
prise and sagacity. By mechanical profession a carpenter, he contracted
for and built many houses prior to 1820, in Beaufort S. C., and until 1818
had a store in that place. His contracts with the U. S. Government, faith-
fully performed, laid the foundation of a large fortune, which he employed
with laudable regard to the best interests of this town. These contracts
were for furnishing live-oak timber to the Navy-yards. He took the first
contract to furnish an entire frame, gotten out to the moulds, for a 74 ship-
of-the-line; also, for smaller vessels, which business he followed success-
fully 20 years. He was also first to establish the whaling business, and
ship-building at Woods Hole. He was public-spirited, generous, patriotic,
and highly esteemed. His father, William, b. Feb. 17, 1747, had, by w.
Martha, viz.: Elijah Aug. 16, 1774; Phebe June 12, 1776; John Aug. 5,
1778 ; Reuben Sept. 12, 1780; Thomas Ap. 24, 1783; Eunice August 8,
1785 ; Lucy Oct. 2, 1787; William Feb. 13, 1790; Martha Sept. 17, 1792;
and Ezekiel Aug. 10, 1796. John b. 1778, and d. Oct. 7, 1843, ae. 65, m.
Mehit. Robinson, dr. of Mjcah, 1798, and had Micah R. Dec. 24, 1798,
who d. June 22, 1827, se. 29, and was father of the present Hon. Chas. F.
Swift, of Y. For the annexed engraved likeness of Elijah Swift Esq., we
are indebted to his son Oliver C. Swift Esq., Erasmus Gould Esq., an£
perhaps other members of the family.
2	Mr. Nathaniel Lewis, s. of Lothrop, had by his w. Sarah, who d.
Mar. 22, 1853, ae. 73, Perez H.; Sarah, who d. y.; Nath’l, now of Texas;
James, some time minister of the 2d. Cong. Ch. in this town ; Daniel, rec-
tor of the Episcopal Church, St. Francisville, La.; Sarah L., who m. Josiah
Tobey of S.; and Henry Martyn, counsellor at law. Mr. L. was a promi-
nent and liigliljvrespected citizen.
3	James D. Lewis Esq., b. Dec. 28, 1808, s. of Mr. Nathaniel, m.
Eunice Jenkins, dr. Capt. Weston Jenkins, and left issue. Mr. L. was a
gentleman of good talents and fine sensibilities. After a pastorate of sev-
eral years at Reading, and subsequently in this town, he relinquished the
ministry, and entered the practice of law. The accomplished Allston has
said, “ Those feelings which are most intimately blended with our nature,
and which most powerfully and continually influence us, are the very feel-
ings which it is the most difficult to give any distinct apprehension of to
another.” By all who knew the excellent qualities of Mr. L., he was
esteemed and beloved.ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
481
and Mr. David Lewis, Dec. 17, ae. 75. We may also
here mention the decease of a distinguished son of
Falmouth, Samuel Lewis Esq., who d. on his farm in
Green Township, near the town of Cheviot, Ohio, July
28,1854, S3. 55.1
1 Ebenezer Nye Esq., some time in the legislature, justice of the
peace more than 30 yrs., and for as long a period postmaster at N. Falm.,
county commiss’r 6 yrs., and a deacon of the.3d Church, was an estimable
citizen. He was father of Mr. Reuben Nye, cashier of the Fairhaven
Bank.
Samuel Lewis Esq. was b. in this town, Mar. 17, 1799. In 1813, his
father, Samuel Lewis Sr., s. of Lothrop, finding the war ruinous to his
occupation on the seas, resolved to remove with his large family to the
West. Many families, from this and other Cape towns, removed at, or
about, this period. A covered wagon was provided in which the mother,
three daughters, and the youngest boy might ride; whilst the father and
five elder boys, of whom Samuel was one, walked the whole distance from
this town to Pittsburg. The journey, now performed in about two days,
was then a long and tedious one of at least six weeks’ duration. The
wagon answered as a sleeping-apartment, as well as for the conveyance of
the necessary effects to be transported. It was the usual method of emi-
gration. Arrived at Pittsburg, this mode of travel was exchanged for
another little less laborious; a flat-boat was provided at small cost, and all
were floated down the bosom of the Ohio River to Cincinnati. Those who
remove from the Cape, having generally combined agriculture with the
service of Neptune, can always readily make themselves at home in farm-
life. The son, Samuel, from farming soon turned his attention to convey-
ing the mails in the then sparsely-settled, and, for the most part, unbroken
region between Chilicothe, O., and Maysville, Ky. An accident in this
severe service nearly cost him his life, and disabled him for the further pros-
ecution of the work. On recovery, he apprenticed himself to a carpenter
and soon became a superior workman at the trade. Dissatisfied, however,
with the narrow sphere to which he foresaw this occupation would confine
him, he resolved, before arriving at his majority, to give his attention to
the law ; a course, it seems, not entirely approved by his father, who, hav-
ing been a seaman, was accustomed to regard those of the legal profession
with that peculiar affection which denominates the lawyer a “ land-shark.”
He was admitted to the bar in 1822, and quickly rose to distinction. Nu-
merous clients and generous fees were not wanting; but, having at the age
of ten years, connected himself, by religious profession, with a Methodist
church in his native town, — a profession from which he never wavered, —
and witnessing in his neighborhood and during his travels the religious des-
titution that prevailed, he occasionally exercised the gift that was in him,
imparting religious instruction to listening throngs. Persuaded by his
Christian brethren, in 1824, to accept authority as a local preacher, he oc-
cupied that position also till his death. In 1837, when the State of Ohio
established the office of General Superintendent of Common Schools, the
interest he had taken in introducing the system, and his high qualifications,
induced his appointment, — an office which he sustained through life with sig-
nal ability. Such was the result of his indefatigable labors in shaping and
perfecting this means of the general welfare, that he was known as “ the
Father of Common Schools in Ohio ” — an honor bravely won and richly
deserved. Whether pleading at the bar, preaching from the pulpit,
YOL. II.	61482
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1855, John Robinson Esq. d. Jan. 3, se. 59;1 Mr.
Moses Hatch, Oct 26, ge. 96; also Mr. Stephen Davis,
Sept. 11, ae. 78.
addressing school conventions, or swaying the multitude by his eloquence
in political assemblies, his contemporaries, of whatever faith or party, con-
ceded that he was an able and honest man, a valiant defender of what he
conceived to be the right, and a true friend to his country. The engraving
on the opposite page is obtained through the courtesy of his son, Rev. Wm.
G. W. Lewis, of Cincinnati, whose well-written Biography of his father
was pub. in a handsome volume, 430 pp. 12mo., 1857 ; and from that are
obtained the facts, in substance, above related.
1 Mr. Robinson was in direct lineal descent from Rev. John, the Leyden
pastor, who, b. 1576, wasadm. to Christ Col., Camb. 1592, took the degree
of A. m. and became Fellow 1598. He lived some time in Norwich Co.
Norfolk, Eng.; “ a man worthily reverenced of all the city for the grace of
God in him,” and, 1608, “ was chosen pastor of the Puritans gathered at
the residence of Wm. Brewster at the village of Scoresby in the Co. of
Nottingham.” He removed with the church in the winter of 1607-8 to
Amsterdam, and in 1610 to Leyden, and witnessed the departure of a por-
tion of the church to America in 1620. He d. at. Leyden, Feb. 19, 1625,
O. S., or Mar. 1, 1626, N. S., ae. 50. According to notes taken by Mr.
Geo. Sumner, the pastor’s family are mentioned in the Leyden census of 1622
as follows: “Jan, preacher; Burgetta (Bridget), his wife; James, Bridget,
Isaac, Mercy, Favor, Jacob, his children; and Maria Hardy, his maid-
servant.” In 1611, he is mentioned as “Jan Roberts, preacher of the
Divine Word, of the English communion.” There is no reason to suppose
that the assertion often repeated, viz: “ It is well known that the Pastor s
wife and family came over after his decease,” is correct; but, on the con-
trary, the clearest evidence of its incorrectness exists. The other tradition
viz.: that “ she was buried in Barnstable,” also fails, therefore. See p.
278. The Leyden records show that his dr. Bridget m. John Grynwich,
student of theology, May 26, 1629, and that her mother was witness, she
then being four years a widow. See Cong. Quarterly, Vol. IV. 62-5.
Mr. Isaac, s. of the pastor, came over 1631, the only one of the family
that did come’; was freeman in Scit. 1633, and was in Be. 1639. He was
one of the 13 men who made the first purchase in Falm., and the first house
built in this town was his. His 1st w. was Margaret Handford June 27,
1636, who d. June, 1649; his 2d wife was Mary. Issue: Susanna, bap.
Jan. 21, 1637 in Scit.; John bap. Ap. 5, 1640; Isaac bap. Aug. 7, 1642;
Fear bap. Jan. 26, 1644, who m. Baker; Mercy bap. July 4, 1647, m. Wm.
Weeks Mar. 16,1669; a still-born June 1649, at which time the mother
died; Israel bap. Oct 5, 1651; Jacob bap. May 18, 1653; Peter, who
went to Norwich, Ct.; and Thomas bap. Mar. 6, 1666, who went to Guil-
ford, Ct. John, eldest s. of Isaac, m. Elisa. Weeks May 1, 1667, and had
John 1668; Isaac 1669; Timothy 1671; Abigail 1674, who m. Jas. Perci-
val Feb. 27, 1699; Joseph 1679; Mary, who m. Benj. Davis 1704; and
two sons, 1683 and 1688, who d. inf. Jacob, s. of Isaac, had by w. Expe-
rience, Jacob, Isaac, and Mary who m. Jona. Weeks Oct. 26, 1704.
Timothy, b. 1671, m. Mehit. Weeks May 3, 1699, and had Mehit. 1700;
Thos. Ap. 3, 1703; Rebecca June 9, 1706 who m. John Robinson Nov. 2,
1727; Tim. June 17, 1713; John Aug. 30, 1716 ; and Wm. Aug. 10, 1719.
John, b. 1716, s. of Tim., m. Kezia Hatch 1740, and 2d, Anna Hoxie who
becoming a wid. m. Edward Dillingham. Issue: Zenas Nov. 25, 1740 ; Seth
June 21, 1742; Solo. Ap. 17, 1744; Bartlett July 12, 1746; and JohnANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
483
In 1856, Dea. Solomon Lawrence d. Feb. 8, se. 97;
Mr. Thomas Lawrence died May 20, ae. 77;1 and Mr,
Thatcher L. Hatch, May 3, ae. 63.2
In 1857, Mr. Thomas Swift d. April 5, ae. 73;3 and
May 28, Rev. Henry Lincoln, formerly minister of this
town, ae. 91.4
In 1858, Mr. John Webster d. Nov. 22, ae. 70.® An
act was passed this year, in Gen. Ct., for the protection
of the herring-fisheries in this town, prohibiting the
use of any seine or drag-net within 1£ m. of any river
Feb. 4, 1747. Zenas, b. 1740, s. of John, who d. Nov. 8, 1829, m. Mary
Childs Dec. 15, 1763, and had Walley Sept. 15, 1768; Joseph May 19,
1772; Elisa. July 1, 1774, who m. Weston Jenkins Oct. 29, 1795; Eunice
Aug. 1, 1776, who d. 1784 ; and Zenas Aug. 1, 1782. Walley, b. 1768,
s. of Zenas, m. Susanna Green Mar. 16, 1794, and had John July 29,1795;
Henry Aug. 22, 1798 ; Barna. 1801, d. inf.; Walley 1804, d. inf.; and
Charles 1812, d. inf. John, Esq., b. 1795, and d. 1855, m. Lucy Crowell
Jan. 4, 1824, and left two sons and two drs. He was 8 yrs. selectman,
justice of the peace, and a most estimable citizen, honored and beloved,
and well worthy of his ancestral descent.
*Mr. Thomas Lawrence m. Martha Dimmick, dr. Hon. Braddock
who d. Feb. 9, 1828, £e. 38. His son, Capt. Augustus, d. at Valparaiso,
May 2, 1856, as. 37; and Celia, only dr., m. Samuel P. Bourne, and died
Nov. 22, 1858, ae. 22.
2 “ An ornament to his Christian profession ; his end was peace.”
8 Mr. Thomas Swift, b. Ap. 24, 1783, s. of William, was a highly re-
spectable citizen, public-spirited and benevolent, a consistent Christian, and
prominent in every good work. “ He was the first in New England, in
connection with his bro. Elijah, in 1816, to contract with the U. S. Gov-
ernment for supplying live-oak timber for a line-of-battle ship.” The tim-
ber was obtained on the Sea Islands of S. Carolina; and the successful and
faithful accomplishment of the contract increased both the wealth and busi-
ness of the town. For the excellent engraving on the opposite page, we
are indebted to the courtesy and liberality of his sons, Messrs. Henry and
James M. Swift, highly respectable and prosperous merchants in New York.
4 See Vol. I. 669. Rev. Mr. Lincoln’s ministry here was popular and
highly prosperous, terminating, at his request, after a pastorate of 33 yrs., in
1823. After resigning his parochial charge, his ministrations were not en-
tirely suspended. Besides officiating occasionally for his ministerial breth-
ren, he preached some time at Dartmouth; but, although his mental facul-
ties, more than ordinarily brilliant, were unclouded to the last, his eyes
became din! and he finally retired from all active labor, devoutly, and
with remarkable serenity, awaiting the reward promised to the good and
faithful servant, and gently pass’ng from earth to his glorious rest. He was
buried in this town, where hi? memory is cherished with grateful respect
and affection.
6 Mr. John Webster was well known as proprietor of the excellently-
kept hotel at Woods Hole.484
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
or stream running from any pond into the sea or Vine-
yard Sound, between Nobsque Point and Waquoit
Harbor, from March 20 to Sept. 20 inclusive, each and
every year.
In 1859, Rev. William Bates, late of Sturbridge, was
installed over the First Congregational Church, June
16. He died Sept. 9, ae. 42.1 Mr. Daniel Bowerman d.
this year, Jan’y 13, aged 80;2 and Hon. John Jenkins,
Aug. 10, ae. 61.®
1	Rev. William Bates, whose pastorate here was thus brief, was b. in
Dedham Jan. 19,1816; grad. Mid. Col. 1836; and was s. of Rev. Joshua
Bates, D. D. formerly pastor at Dedham, afterward Pres, of Mid. Col.
2	See p. 151. Mr. Thomas Bowerman, the ancestor, was in Plym.
1633, in Be. 1643. His will is dated May 9,1663 ; but Mr. Savage says he
d. May 25, 1679. He m. Hannah Annable, dr. Anthony, Mar. 10, 1644-5,
and had Hannah 1646 ; Thos. 1648 ; Sam’l 1651, who was slain in the Re-
lioboth battle; Desire 1654; Mary 1656; Mehitable 1658; and Tristram
1661. Thomas, b. 1648, some time town-clerk, m. Mary Harper Ap. 9,
1678, and had Sam’l, Thos., Stephen, Benj., Hannah, and Wait. Thomas,
s. of the preceding, had by w. Jane, lehabod, Judah, David, Silas, Joseph,
Sarah, Jane, Elisa., Peace, and Deborah.
8 Hon. John Jenkins was s. of Capt. Weston Jenkins, a prominent
citizen, who m. Elisa. Robinson, dr. Zenas, Oct. 29, 1795, and had John
Mar. 18, 1798; Rebecca Mar. 19, 1800, who m. Isaac H. Parker; Hetty
May 3, 1802; Chs. Weston July 31, 1805 who m. Phebe Bishop of Far-
mington, Ct., and d. 1862, some time town-clerk and treasurer; Eliza R.,
whom. O. C. Swift; James June 24, 1809, who m. Phebe B. Donaldson
and 2d, Elisa. Ward, and removed West; Eunice R., who m. Rev. Jas. D.
Lewis; and Harriet Frances, who m. J. F. Norton of Goshen, Ct. Hon.
John, b. 1798, m. Harriet Stfift, dr. Elijah, Jan. 5, 1825, and 2d, Chloe
Thompson of Ct., July 28, 1841. He left a family of six children, — five
sons and 1 dr. Mr. Jenkins was descended from the first settler of the
name in this town to whom the early records refer in mention of what is
now the road that leads to W. Falm., — “ The road that John Jenkins goes
to meeting; ”— and, maternally, from Isaac Robinson, the son of Rev. John;
and thus,
“ The best blood chambered in his bosom.”
His forefathers, on either side, were among those who, in 1660, projected
the “ Plantation of Suecanesset; ” and their descendant was worthy of his
lineage. We knew him in youth, — studious, noble-minded, exemplary,
and possessed of maturity of judgment beyond his years. His then finely-
developing character was fulfilled in manhood. Mild, yet decisive ; a true
friend and safe counsellor; generous without ostentation ; above all intrigue
or sycophancy; of stern principle and charitable benignity; courageous
and prudent; honorable and just; a good citizen and sincere Christian ; he
was never, we may venture to say, known to do an act beneath his station,
nor to intentionally omit a duty which became it. From 1825, he was a
justice of the peace, and, in 1849, a member of the Senate of this Com-
monwealth. The engraved likeness of Mr. Jenkins is kindly furnished by
his family.ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
485
In 1860, Rev. James P. Kimball was ins. pastor of
the First Church, June 20. Mr. Moses Butler died
this year, June 23, as. 67;1 and Mr. Eleazer Fuller,
July 13, as. 94.2
1	“ We find a family tradition that “ Dan’l Butler, son of Thos. who came
from Eng. 1705, set. at Be. and that his son Daniel, b. 1740, set. in F. abt.
1765.” We do not covet the task of overthrowing traditions; but that
Thomas Butler was in Sandwich in 1637 appears from preceding pages.
Moreover, Daniel of Falm. m. Joanna Mendal of Roch.,in Sandwich, July
17, 1707. Again, Daniel, of S., m. Mary Davis of F. Oct. 16, 1760.
There was also Obadiah, of S., who, by wife Elisa., had Elisa. May 5,
1707; Obadiah 1710; Thomas 1714; Phineas 1716; Daniel 1719; Judah
1722; Deborah 1724; Sam,ll726; Benj. 1729; and, by w. Hannah, Elisa.
Ap. 16, 1733. Israel, of Be., m. Elisa. Blossom, dr. Thos., July 1, 1725,
who d. Jany. 7, 1734-5, and 2d, Mary Parker, dr. Dan’l Esq., Oct. 29,
1735, who d. 1745; issue: Natli’l Ap. 11, 1726 ; Benjamin Dec. 18, 1727 ;
Elisa. 1730 ; Sarah 1732; James Dec. 15,1736 ; Hannah, 1738 ; Mary 1739;
and Daniel Feb. 23, 1740-1.	Papers have recently been before us,
that attempt to demonstrate that from James, b. 1736, of this last family,
who set. in Harwich and m. Sarah Smith, dr. of Moses of Eastham, and
had John, James, Patrick, Moses, Sarah, Polly, Rebecca, and Mehit., is de-
scended, — through the last James whose 1st w. was Lydia and 2d Han-
nah, and who had Zebulon and Benjamin F., — an eminent lawyer who,
espousing his country’s cause, has merited the gratitude of the Union, and
distinguished himself before the world by his military abilities. We are
not to be understood as adopting the genealogical theorem; we rather give
it, contrary to our general rule, as an on dit; for, whilst we would be quite
willing to know that the intrepid soldier and able military Gov. is of Cape
Cod origin, we have no idea of claiming for Cape Cod all the distinguished
men of either present or former times; nor, indeed, any, without the clear-
est evidence.
2	The branch of the Fuller family, numerous on the Cape, is from early
Plym. settlers. Samuel was in the Mayflower, 1620, with his father,
Edward, and his somewhat noted uncle Doct. Samuel, and by his w. Jane
had Hannah, who m. Nicholas Bonham Jan. 1, 1659; Sam’l bap. at Scit.
1638; Sarah 1641, d. inf.; Mary, b. at Barnstable June 16, 1644, who m.
Jos. Williams 1674 ; Thomas May 18, 1650 ; Sarah Dec. 14, 1654, who m.
Crowell; John 1655; and another Feb. 8, 1658, who d. inf. Perhaps
others. His uncle, Doct. Samuel, of Plym., deacon, a skilful physician,
and distinguished also for his piety, m. in London, Elsie Glascock, 2d,
Agnes Carpenter, and 3d, Bridget Lee May 27, 1617; he d. 1633, leaving
a wid. Bridget, and son Samuel, who was the first minister at Middleboro’,
ord. 1694 when about 65 years old. Matthew, s. of Edward, b. in Eng.,
removed to Be. 1652. He was a surgeon of the army 1673, Capt. 1675,
and d. 1678. Twice m., to Frances and Hannah; he had Mary, who m.
Ralf Jones Ap. 17, 1650; EHsa. who m. Moses Rowley 1652; Sam’l;
John; and Anne by 2d m., who m. her cousin Sam’l Fuller. Samuel, &
of Dr. Matthew, had by w. Mary, issue: Thos., Jabez, Timo., Matthew,
Elijah, Anne, and Samuel 1676. Samuel, b. 1698, s. of Sam’l, m. Anne
Full er, dr. of his uncle Matthew, and had Matthew, Barnabas, Joseph,
Benj., Desire, and Sarah. 7 iiomas, b. 1650, s. of Sam’l, m. Elisa. Lo-
throp, dr. Rev. John, Dec. 29, 1680,— the daughter who when a wid. went
to reside in Ct., and took with her the records so long supposed to be lost,
now in the library of Yale Cc ,—and had Hannah Nov. 17, 1631; Joseph486
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1861, Dea. Benjamin Hatch died Jan. 4, ae. 89.
In 1862, Doct. Moses Rogers d. Feb. 4, ae. 44; Mr.
Timothy Nye, March 22, ae. 80; Mr. Melatiah Gifford,
July 20, ae. 82; Mr. Frederick Davis, Oct. 29, ae. 67,1 and
Mr. Charles W. Jenkins d. Oct. 29, at Bangor.2
In the scenes which are now being enacted, 1863,
this town has not been inactive, nor has its former
character for patriotic devotion to the interests of the
country been sacrificed. As in the Revolutionary strug-
gle it stood firm, and, in the contest of 1812, performed
important service, so now, it may be expected, un-
moved by privations or sacrifices, to retain the spirit
of early days. There may be, in the loyal States,
some few instances by which reasonable expectation,
founded on examples set by noble sires, has been dis-
appointed ; for, sometimes
“ Good seed degenerates, and oft obeys
The soil’s disease, and into cockle strays:n
July 12, 1683 ; Mary 1685; Benj. Aug. 6, 1690; Elisa. 1692; Sam’l April
12, 1694 ; and Abigail 1696. Dr. John, s. of Matthew, was twice m., and
had Lydia 1675; Bethia 1687; John 1689; and Reliance 1691. He d.
1691, and his wid. m. Lothrop. John, b. 1655, s. of Sam’l, had by w.
Mehit. issue: Sam’l, Thomas, Shubael, and Thankful, all in Be., and
then removed to E. Haddam, Ct., where he had John Nov. 10, 1697, and
others. John, b. 1689, s. of Dr. Jno., m. Thankful Gorham June 16,1710,
and had Hannah 1711; John April 3, 1712, who m. Temp. Gorham 1740;
Mary and Bethia, gem., 1715; Nath’l Dec. 10, 1716; and Thankful 1718.
Matthew, of Be., prob. s. of Sam’l, m. Patience Young Feb. 25, 1692,
and had Anne 1693 ; Jona. 1696; Content 1699 ; Jane 1704; David 1707;
Young 1708; and Cornelius 1710. Barnabas m. Elisa. Young Feb. 25,
1680, and had Sam’l 1681; Isaac 1684; Hannah 1688 ; Eben. 1699 ; Josiah
1709. It is said that he, by a 2d. m., had Barnabas 1721; Eleazer 1722 ;
Joshua 1727 ; and Lot 1733.
1	Frederick Davis Esq., highly esteemed, was in lineal descent from
Robert 1st. of Be., whose s. Josiah, b. 1656, m. Anne Taylor 1679, and
had Stephen 1700, who had Isaac 1729, who m. Hannah Davis, dr. Jas.,
Jan. 16, 1752, and had Isaac Dec. 29,1764, who m. Abigail Gorham, and
had Stephen G., cashier of the Shawmut Bank, Boston, also Frederick,
and others.
2	Mr. Chas. W. Jenkins, b. 1805, s. of Capt. Weston, was lineally
descended from John, who was in Plym. 1643, and then went to Be., who
m. Mary Ewer, 1653, and had, besides others, John Nov. 13, 1659, who
was the father of John b. 1709, who was the father of James b. Dec. 9,
1735, who was the father of Weston b. Aug. 21, 1768.ANNALS OF FALMOUTH.
487
but we know of no notable instance of such degen-
eracy here.1 Shades of Departed Patriots! the Dim-
micks, Bassett, Grannis, the Swifts, Nye, and the rest
of ’76, forbid that ever the soil under which your
ashes repose be thus desecrated !
1A severer test of true fealty could hardly be made than that of the late
draft to fill the ranks of the army. It was such in 1780, when an order of
the General Court required military officers to draft men for the conti-
nental service. That order came at a time when weariness and despond-
ency, consequent upon a protracted war, presented an opportunity for do-
mestic foes to throw off disguise and counsel resistance. In some parts of
this county were men, who, before, could only cautiously object sentiments
that were well understood to characterize them as hostile to their country’s
cause, and who, at this crisis, became at once emboldened in their endeav-
ors to intimidate the patriotic, prejudice the lukewarm, sow the seeds of
disaffection, and arouse the mob. Their professed sympathy for “ the peo-
ple and the people’s rights,” their new-born zeal for “ constitutional ” ob-
servances, and their unmeasured denunciations of governmental “des-
potism,” became a stench in the nostrils of every true son of Liberty.
Friends of government were exposed to a severe trial of patience and
forbearance; especially were the field-officers of the militia, on whom was
enjoined the duty of enforcing the draft. The triumphs of the enemy in
the field were less insufferable than the insidious, lurking, fault-finding,
factious Tory-spirit at home. So far as sympathizers with the enemy dared,
the officers of militia were opposed, traduced, insulted. Semi-outbreaks
and insubordinacy followed; denoting unmistakably the influence that was
both openly and secretly at work to produce anarchy and ruin; and, as a
consequence, — as all persons at all familiar with the records of the Gen.
Court, know, — arrests, imprisonments, and, in some instances, banishment
and confiscation ensued. Few, however, of the chief instigators suffered.
Their subtilty and cowardice restrained their overt action within prudent
limit.
“ Tongue-valiant heroes, vaunters of their might,
In brag the foremost, but the lag in fight,”
they were discreetly careful not to imperil their own persons. They would
accomplish their ignoble aim by pushing forward their satellites and excit-
ing the passions of the rout. They had, we are happy to say, scarcely a
representative of their views, scarcely an emissary, in this loyal town. We
say loyal, for although whigs were then called rebels, and tories loyalists,
the latter were loyal only to the oppressor, whilst the former were truly
loyal to their country’s interests. England’s misrule forced the contest.
The patriots of *76 were never intent on resisting constituted authority;
but the abuse of that authority.
DEPUTIES.
The first mention of a Deputy to the General Court, from this
town, was at the Dec. session of 1689.
1689. John Robinson, 2 yrs. 1691. Isaac Robinson, 1 yr.488
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
REPRESENTATIVES.
Yre.
1092. Mo?ts Rowley,
1735.	Jos. Robinson,	9.
1736.	Seth Parker,	6.
1741. Joseph Parker,	2.
1746.	Thos. Shiverick,	1.
1747.	Rowland Robinson,	6.
1762.	Daniel Butler,	1.
1763.	Thomas ^mith,	2.
1773. Moses Swift,	3.
1776. Nath’l Shiverick,	3.
1779.	Jos. Dimmick,	1.
1780.	Sam’l Bourne,	1.
1788. David Nye,	14.
1799. Timo. Crocker,	1.
1806.	Brad. Dimmick,	8.
1807.	Francis Wicks,	4.
1808.	Jas. Hinckley,	5.
1811.	Thos. Fish,	21.
1812.	Shub. Lawrence,	2.
1828. Elijah Swift,	12.
1834. Ward M. Parker,	4.
1836. Nath’l Shiverick,	2.
1839.	Silas Jones,	2.
1840.	Eben’r Nye,	3.
1844. S. P. Crosswell,	4.
1848. Knowles Butler,	3.
1851. David Lawrence,	2.
1853. Thos. Lewis,	2.
1855. Erasmus Gould,	2.
1857. J. T. Dillingham,	1.
SELECTMEN.
Yrg.
1701.	Thos. Bowerman,	4.
“ Philip Dexter,	3.
“ Mel. Bourne.	5.
1702.	Jno. Robinson,	1.
1703.	Rich’d Landers,	1.
“ James Lewis,	1.
“ Isaac Green,	2.
1704.	John Davis,	2.
“ Hope Lothrop,	5.
1705.	Ebeu’r Nye,	2.
“ Timo. Robinson,	16.
1707. Joseph Parker,	7.
1709.	Samuel Lewis,	6.
“ Aaron Rowley,	2.
1711. Joseph Lothrop,	4.
1713. Moses Hatch,	2.
“ Jos. Robinson,.	5.
1717.	Thos. Shiverick,	10.
1718.	Nath’l Davis,	1.
1719.	Jos. Crowell,	1.
1724. Jno. Bourne,	8.
1730. Elnathan Nye,	1.
1733. John Jenkins,	3.
** William Weeks,	1.
1735.	Eben’r Hatch,	1.
1737.	Rowl. Robinson,	11.
1740.	Thos. Parker,	8.
1744.	Daniel Butler,	8.
175G.	Jos. Robinson,	14.
<(	Nath’l Nickerson,	7.
1759.	Sol. Swift,	9.
u	Seth Nye,	1.
1760.	Stephen Bowerman, 5.	
1761.	Moses Swift,	3.
1766.	Joseph Wing,	9.
1768.	David Crowell,	10.
<(	TLno. Crocker,	14.
1709.	Sam’l Shiverick,	3.
1774.	Jos. Dimmick,	1.
1775.	Nath’i Shiverick,	23.
1770.	Benj. Parker,	1.
1782.	Job Parker,	4.
1786.	Jos. Hatch,	19.
<(	John Nye,	3.
1789.	Paul Swift,	9.
1796.	Jno. Robinson,	2.
1798.	Sam’l Nye,	2.
1799. Sam’l Shiverick,	Yrs. 4.
1800. Jos. Palmer,	3.
1802. Prince Gifford,	9.
1803. Jas. Hinckley,	10.
1809. Sol. Green,	7.
1813. Thomas Fish,	20.
“ Brad. Dimmick,	10.
1816. Philip Phinney,	9.
1823. Steph. Nye,	2.
1825. Timo. Nye,	20.
“ Win. Gilford,	3.
1827. William Nye,	8.
1831. Dan’l Swift,	7.
1832. Jno. Robinson,	8.
1838. Bars. Bowerman,	12.
1840. Knowles Butler,	16.
1849. William Nye,	13.
1850. Prince G. Moore,	14.
1851. David Lawrence,	1.
1855. Nymphas Davis,	2.
1857. Silas Jones,	2.
1859. Thos. Lewis, 1862. Silas J. Eldred,	t
TOWN TREASURERS.
in.
1701.	Joseph Parker,	3.
1708. Melatiah Bourne,	1.
1710.	Thomas Parker,	1.
1718.	Jos. Robinson,	2.
1719.	Jno. Dimmick,	3.
1736. William Green,	2.
Yrs.
1744. John Bourne,	2.
1750.*Rowl. Robinson,	2.
1757. Jo eph Bourne,	20.
1777. Jos. Palmer,	3.
1780. Jos. Palmer Jr.,	13.
1791. Job Parker,	13.
1804. Jas. Hinckley,	9.
1813.	Brad. Dimmick,	10.
1823. Rich’d S. Wood,	15.
1838. Chas. W. Jenkins,	7.
1845. William Nye,	13.
1858. Thomas Lewis,	6.
* Previous to this date, we have given the names of those who were in succession, in
office; but the full number of years each served, is probably not given in all cases, — only
the time they are known to have served. To make out the entire period from 1701 to
1750, some must have continued in office a longer time than is credited, or others not
named must have held the office. We did not discover the defect until too late to
remedy it.
TOWN CLERKS.
1700. Thos. Lewis,	2.
1702.	Philip Dexter, 1.
1703.	Thos. Bowerman, 4.
1707. Mel. Bourne,	4.
1711.	Timo. Robinson, *9.
1715. Joseph Parker, *3.
1724. Jos. Robinson, *6.
1730. Moses Hatch, *1.
1735. Thos. Shiverick,	*1.
1737.	Jno. Hammond,	*2.
17->9. Rowl. Robinson,	*3.
1740. John Bourne,	*7.
1750. Jno. Crowell,	6.
1757. Joseph Bourne,	20.
1777. Joseph Palmer,	3.
1780. Jos. Palmer Jr.,	13.
1791. Job Parker,	13.
1804. Jas. Hinckley,	9.
1813. Brad. Dimmick,	10.
1823. Rd. S. Wood,	15.
1838. Chs. W. Jenkins,	7.
1845. William Nye,	13.
1853. Thomas Lewis,	6.
♦Those with the asterisk prefixed are probably not the precise number of years each
served. Some, or all of the incumbents may have held the office a longer period. j0Stf“The
first that we find mentioned as Proprietor’s Clerk, is Thomas Lewis, 1087. Others, in suc-
cession, were Joseph Parker, 1712; Solo. Robinson, 1728; John Bourne, 1743; and D.
Butler, 1749. The Proprietor’s Book dates f:	Nov. 29, 1061.THE
ANNALS OF THE TOWN
O F
HARWICH.
“The time mat come when the sows or the Pilobims will bevebt to the dats or
THEIB FOBEFATHEBS FOB OLD PBINCIPLES, ANTIQUATED MANNEBS, AND PATBIABCHAL EXAMPLES,
AND SEABCH OUB DEPOSITOBU S FOB THE MEMOBIALS AND THE MEANS OF A rBEE, PUBS, AND
pbospebous bepublic.”—Jbu Holmes, D. D.
62
VOL. II.
(489)Jfnsmpiiott.
TO COL. HENRY C. BROOKS,
OF BOSTON:
Who, though himself were to traverse the seas to the farthest Australasian isles in
those noble ships that, under his direction, so regulaily depart and return, would,
near or remote, still turn his thoughts, with proud remembrance and lively interest,
to Cape Cod, and recognize with gratification whatever, derived from the records
of the past or existing in the present, contributes to the honor of the county of
which, in his position as an enterprising merchant, he is a worthy representative,
these Annals of the Town of his nativity are respectfully
INSCRIBED
BY HIS SINCERE FRIEND,
THE AUTHOR.
(*0)ANNALS OF HARWICH
The original township extended across the peninsula
of Cape Cod, and for more than a hundred years
included the territory that now constitutes the town-
ship of Brewster. Incorporation was granted it with
the name of Harwich,1 Sept. 14, 1694;2 but it began
to be settled by emigrants from Eastham, Plymouth,
and other places, as early as 1647.
Situation, Boundaries, etc.— The town is now bounded on
the N. by Brewster, — the settlements of the two towns being
naturally separated by woods and ponds ; on the S. by the Vine-
yard Sound; on the E. by Chatham; and on the W. by Dennis.
The centre of the township is about 88 m. from Boston, by land;
13 m. E. from Barnstable court-house; 8 m. from Chatham
Light; and its shores are 30 m. N. from Nantucket harbor, from
which island it is separated by “ the Shoals ” and “ the Vineyard
Sound Channel.”
Natural Divisions, etc.— The surface of the township is for
the most part gently undulating, and more level than that of other
Cape towns. A very considerable portion of it is covered with
wood; the prevailing growth being pine, with much, however,
of oak. The soil is generally light, and much of it sandy; and
yet it yields remunerative crops of Indian corn, rye, etc. Com-
paratively little English grass is cut; the reliance for provender
for stock being chiefly on salt and fresh marshes.
On the coast, in this town, are neither harbor nor creeks into
1	So called, from Harwich, a market, seaport, and parliamentary borough,
in Essex Co., Eng.
2	Mr. Patrick Butler is said to have walked the whole distance to
Boston to obtain the incorporation.
(491)492
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
which vessels may enter; and the only shelter they may have, is
a bar which extends the entire length of the township two-thirds
of a mile from the shore. On this bar are from 7 to 9 ft. of
water in common tides; and, N. of it, the depth is only 9 ft. at
full sea, — excepting anchorage grounds called “ holes,” in which
the depth is greater.1
The town is abundantly supplied with pure, fresh water; u
less than 8 ponds of from one to six m. in circumference, besides
many smaller, being found here. Long Pond, which divides the
town from Brewster, is the source of Herring River, and is three
miles long, — its elevation being about 10 ft. above the sea,— the
river affording water-power for a cotton manufactory.
At the commencement of the present century, some 15 or 20
vessels of about 40 tons each, on an average, and partly owned
here, were employed in the shoal-fishery on the coast; and sev-
eral, of about 100 tons each, sailed to the Banks of Newfound-
land and the Straits of Belle-Isle. The number of persons thus
employed was about 200. The fisheries are now carried on to
a larger extent; some 80 or 100 vessels being employed in the
cod and mackerel fisheries,2 and several wharves and large pack-
ing establishments are connected with the business. Vessels in
port are obliged, when storms threaten, to seek a more secure
retreat at Chatham or Bass River.
The manufacture of salt was early attempted in this town
with good success;3 but this branch of business finally declined
here, as in other towns, and for like causes.
The township embraces several pleasant and thriving villages. *
The central village, or Harwich proper, is on the highest land
in the town, and contains a Congregational meeting-house,4 a
1	A salt pond, 20 ft. deep and 180 rods in circumference, not more than
200 yards from the shore, two and a half miles W. of Chatham line, is
accessible to boats about half the year. The sea flowing into this pond, it
has been supposed that, at inconsiderable expense, it might be converted
into a safe and convenient harbor.
2	In 1837, there were here about 20 vessels engaged in these fisheries; the
aggregate tonnage about 1300 tons. The result of their voyages was 10,000
quintals of codfish, worth about $30,000; and 500 bis. of mackerel, worth
about $3,000. The amount of salt used in the business was 9,000 bu.;
the number of hands employed, 200 ; and the capital invested, $00,000.
8 It is remarkable that about the same time that marine salt began to be
manufactured in Dennis, by solar heat alone, Mr. Ammiel Weeks of this
town, without knowledge of Capt. Sears’ invention, as is said, constructed a
vat with cover to exclude rain, and was manufacturing successfully for his
own use. See Annals of Dennis.
4 Here was the original “ South Precinct Church,” as called before the
division of the town.ANNALS OF HARWICH.
493
flourishing academy; the usual accommodations for common
schools; the Cape Cod Bank; a large edifice called “the Ex-
change,” — occupied as a trading and manufacturing establish-
ment, — with a large hall for lectures and other public uses; a
printing-office, from which issues a weekly paper, recently estab-
lished, called the “ Cape Cod Republican; ” and, besides other
indispensable accompaniments of a well-ordered neighborhood,
many neat residences.
North Harwich is the post-office designation of a small vil-
lage, familiarly known as Deerfield. It contains a Methodist
meeting-house. Its locality is indicated by its name.
In the west part of the township is a large, neat, thriving, but
scattered village known by the post-office designation, West
Harwich. Here is a Baptist meeting-house, — the society being
the most ancient1 of the denomination in the county. There
are some fine residences here, and the usual appliances of public
convenience.
Harwich Port, lying S. W. of the latter settlement, is, per-
haps, more thickly settled; a village of recent growth, of con-
siderable business, — chiefly connected with navigation and the
fisheries, — and contains a Cong, meeting-house known as “ the
Pilgrim Church,” a neat edifice; a Methodist meeting-house, near
by> — the society occupying it being one of the oldest on the Cape,
though dating back little more than half a century; and a hotel;
the dwellings and other structures generally betokening a good
share of prosperity.
South Harwich, the settlement being chiefly along the main
road, from “the Port” to Chatham line,2 * contains a Methodist
meeting-house;”8 and a Union meeting-house, known as “the
Bethe1.”
East Harwich is a considerable settlement in the eastern
part of the township adjoining Brewster. Here is a Methodist
meeting-house.
The town is divided into 14 school districts, with as many
structures for common schools. The State census of 1855,
1	The Baptist Church in this town is said to have been organized as early
as “ about 1750.” Another report is, that it 44 was founded at the time of
4 the Great Awakening/ the members first known as 4 * Separatists/ and that
these finally became Baptists with Mr. Elkanah Nickerson for the first
minister.
2	The South main road from the Dennis line to the bounds of Chatham,
is an almost continuous settlement, with only occasional breaks, and several
of the houses for public religious worship are situated on this thoroughfare.
J Formerly Reformed Methodists.”494
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
showed a population of 3,261, of which 41 only were foreign
born, —1641 males and 1610 females; a singular result for a mar-
itime town whose male inhabitants are so constantly exposed to
disasters upon the seas. The taxable valuation in 1860 was
$841,833, being about $250 to each individual, or $1,250 to
*ach family of five persons. The number of polls was 775.
Progress of the Town. — We have said that Har-
wich was inc. in 1694. Care seems to have been early
taken to secure full religious privileges;1 and, Oct.
16, 1700, a church was gathered, consisting of eight
male members, — each signing a Covenant and Con-
fession of Faith;2 viz.: Nathaniel Stone, Thomas
Crosby, William Myrick, John Freeman, Thomas Free-
man, Edward Bangs, Simon Crosby, and Joseph Paine.
The same day, the Rev. Nathaniel Stone was inducted
to the pastoral office; and Nov. 28, Mr. Thos. Free-
man was choseu deacon.3 .The subsequent earlier
admissions to the church were as follows : —
1701, Feb. 2, Lt. Bangs; April, Mrs. Sarai Oosbie, and Wid.
Jane Snow; June 8, Thomas Clark and his wife Sarai; June
15, Mercy, wife of Samuel Sears ; June 22, Rebecca Freeman,
Patience Paine, Susanna wife of John Gray, and Hannah wife
of Thomas Snow; Aug. 3, the wife of Andrew Clark ; Sept.
14, the wife of John Freeman Sr., the wife of Stephen Hop-
kins Sr., the wife of Stephen Hopkins Jr., and John King ;
1704, June 4, Thomas Crosby and wife; Sept. 17, Mr. Wins-
low; Oct. 1, the wife of Mr. Winslow; 1707, Feb. 9, the wife
of Ens. Myrick; July 9, Lydia, wife of Thomas Snow; Oct. 12,
Edward Snow’s wife ; and, Nov. 30, Edward Snow.
Previous to the settlement of Mr. Stone, all the Cape
*For all knowledge of the early ecclesiastical affairs of the town, we are
chiefly indebted to the private record made by the first settled minister,
Rev. Mr. Stone.
a The Articles of Faith were, in doctrine, strictly in accordance with the
teaching, of “ the Westminster Assembly of Divines.”
8 Much of the early history of this first church, gathered in that part of
the original township subsequently known as “ the North Precinct/’ and
within the present century as Brewster, would, under other circumstances,
be naturally a proper prefix to the annals of the last-named town. It
must, however, be recited here; as also the doings of the ancient Precinct
until it received its later incorporation and new name.ANNALS OF HARWICH.
495
below ike constablerick of Yarmouth, was, as we have
before intimated, considered as belonging ecclesiasti-
cal! y 1c Eastham, — the Rev. Mr. Treat claiming to be
the minister of the whole intervening territory, though,
during most of the time, the extent of ecclesiastical
prerogative pertaining to the former place was by no
means accurately defined. Difficulties, at this period,
growing out of the peculiar political position of this
^ry, as a gart of Gov. Bradford and Associates’
A tlie early purchases and claims of the
Manomoyet” induced much uncertainty
aspects.
arlieot records made in this town have shared
^ie of .hose in others of the first settlements, by
the inquirer after authentic data is so ou°n
disappoint id, —mutilated, — lost.’1 The first that
remain \ is the following, of 1701: —
w At a to-meeting aaaen^led, Mar. 20. John Dillingham was
chosen constable; Benj. Mjrrick, grand-juryman; Wm. Pars-
low, to Verve on the jury of trials, Ens. Mirrick, Joseph Payne,
and Tiios. Freeman, selectmen; Tiios. Freeman, town-treas-
urer* -« King, tithingman; Serg. Sayrs and Edw. Snow,
surveyors; aud Thos. Crosby and Tiios. Snow, fence-viewers.”
Under dat£ of 1703, Feb. 8, we find unmistakable evidence of
the trouble of collecting taxes from persons who, believing them-
selves beyond the jurisdiction of this town, refused to pay.2 The
record that next follows, Mar. 15, authenticates the election of
Thos. Freeman as Town-Clerk, and of other town officers. At a
1	The first 21 pp. of the first book, containing proceedings of town-meet-
ings, also births, marriages, deaths, etc., are “ lost.”
2	“ Whereas, several men on the S. side of the road that leads from the
Herring River to Manomoyick, who formerly paid rates to our town, do
now refuse, and have for several years refused, to pay their legal propor-
tions,” etc.; the town resolved to make an end of all controversy, and
raised money to protect and indemnify “ our former constables, viz.: Thos.
Clark, of the year 1699, Thos. Crosby, 1700, Jno. Dillingham Jr., 1701,
and Samuel Sears, and Kenelm Winslow Jr., 1702,” if, in enforcing the
collections aforesaid, they be “ sued, or any ways molested or V armed; ”
also chose Ens. Mirrick, to act in the premises as agent of the town as occa-
sion might require, “ that our town’s bounds may be fully known.”496
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
meeting, April 29, John Dillingham was chosen a Commsioner
to meet other Commissioners from different parts of thecounty,
at Barnstable ;1 and a pound for cattle was ordered. Ala town-
meeting, May 28, a committee appointed by the propietors to
determine bounds, reported.2 It was, at said meeting agreed
that “ if the town have any right in a piece of upland laid out
by the proprietors for a burial-place, and training-plaee,” Rev.
Mr. Stone shall have “about one acre of said land, part of which
is fenced in, and a little addition, to set a barn on, where his ,
barn now stands.”
In 1705, the difficulties respecting taxes .hwingj&c'*v v
provision was made by the town to defray all «
the liberating certain persons who, for resistan*
of taxes had been ^mmitted; and also to liquida.
incurred in prosecuting any delinquents persisting
ment of rates. Arrangements were also made “for se.
bounds between this town and Eastham.”	**
In 1706, a question involving some difficulty and causing sdlho f
feeling having arisen, viz.: “Whether the town ought tc pay
Mr. Stone’s salary in at 15 penny, or 17 weight,” it was decided
in favor of the former standard. Capt. Jona. Bangs, Jphn^Eree^
man, Thos. Freeman. John Grey, and Nicholas Snow, having
been appointed to settle the bounds between this town and
Eastham, “ the matter being in controversy; ” and having been
1	We have failed as yet to discover on what occasion this
convened.
2	As follows: — “ We, whose names are hereunto subscribed, being chosen
by the proprietors of lands lying within the Reserve of the Purchasers, met
by appointment to run the range, and renew the bounds between the pur-
chasers of Harwich, and the proprietors of Manomoick, and have run the
range and settled the bounds: viz. A pine knot driven into the marsh on
the easterly side of Red River, and so running northerly to the head of the
swamp where the said river issues, and to a pine tree marked, on two
sides, H 4- M; and so, running along a valley, trees marked, and froni said
valley to a grassy pond, a pine-tree marked on the southerly side; and*
so running across said pond to a pine-tree marked H 4- M near and on the
southerly side of the highway that leads to the Herring-river from Manomo-
ick ; and from said pine-tree, as the way leads to Manomoick unto a white-
oak tree marked on twro sides, on the southerly side of the highway, near
the land that is in occupation of Joseph Nickerson; and from said tree
easterly to the Muddy Cove, a stake stuck in the marsh on the easterly side
of said river. May *28, 1703.” Signed, “ Wm. Nickerson, NathT Covel,
Thos. Nickerson, Jona. Bangs, Stephen Hopkins, Thos. Freeman.” In
regard to the preceding report, we remark that, as the record now stands,
the word “ easterly,” in the last line, is crossed, and “ southwesterly ” is
substituted in a different hand and nk; by whom, by what authority, or
for what purpose, does not appear.ANNALS OF HARWICH.
497
joined by Samuel Knowles, Samuel Mayo, and Joshua Doane,
on the part of Eastham, the matter was amicably arranged, and
to the agreement were affixed the signatures and seals of the
agents, “ the 16th day of Oct., in the 4th year of the reign of our
gracious Lady, Queen Anne.”1
The question in regard to Mr. Stone’s salary being still before
the public mind, and he having proposed terms of compromise,
1 It was agreed and determined that the bounds and parting-line, between
the two towns, and between Eastham “ and the proprietors of said town
jof Harwich,” shall be as thus described: “ Beginning at the mouth of Nam-
slvaket River, and from the mouth of said river N. W. and by N. to low-
water mark, or reflux of the sea; and from Namskaket, S. E., with the
middle of the river as it runs up to the marsh to a stone on the upland on
the S. westerly side of a nook of marsh; from thence to a pine-tree marked
E on the easterly side, and II on the westerly, standing a little above the
highway, near the head of the marsh; from thence running on a straight
line to the head of Potanemakut salt-water pond, to the brook that runs
into the head of the N. W. corner of said pond, a little to the northward of
John Hurd’s now dwelling-house; from thence running down the said pond
and middle of the river that runs out of said pond, along the cove and
channel around Nemacoick Point, and with the main channel out at Potane-
makut Harbor; which said bounds, place, and places, shall forever be the
bounds between the said town of Eastham, and said town and proprie-
tors of said town of Harwich. Further, it is mutually agreed that a certain
tract of land lying to the westward bound between said Eastham and Har-
wich, should be and remain forever for a perpetual common for the allowed
inhabitants of said Eastham and allowed inhabitants and proprietors of
said Harwich, which said tract is bounded : Beginning at a pine-tree marked
in the range between said town of E. and said town of H. eastward to a
pond by Jas. Maker’s now dwelling-house ; from thence running to the east-
erly end of said pond, so running around the easterly end of said pond to a
pine-tree marked at the S. W. corner of said pond; from thence running
on a straight line southerly to a rock by the water side, marked T, a little
to the westward of the point that lyeth opposite against the westernmost of
Chequeset Neck; running from said rock around said Chequeset easterly
and northerly as the shore lies, and around Nemachoick Neck and up to
Potanemakut River to the first specified bound; all which said tract con-
tained within said boundaries, the allowed inhabitants of said town of E.,
and also the allowed inhabitants of said Harwich and proprietors, shall
have an equal right in and to, together with all the members’ rights, privi-
leges and appurtenances thereto belonging: and it shall be lawful for each
of the respective proprietors of each of said towns to have free egress and
regress from and into said commons land forever hereafter. And, it is also
mutually agreed that inasmuch as persons are already settled in said tract
of land, they and every of them shall remain and belong to the said town
of Harwich; and all such persons as are settled already on certain parcels
of said tract of land by fencing or building thereon, every such person shall
have and hold the same firm to them, their heirs and assigns forever, with-
out suit, let, or any molestation whatsoever: only, such as are of the pro-
{irietors of said Harwich and by virtue thereof did formerly purchase any
and of the natives within said tract, to be notwithstanding conformable to
all divisions with the rest of the proprietors of said Harwich, for and about
the same, as fully as if this instrument had not been made.”
VOL. II.	63498
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
the town voted compliance with his proposition. Mr. Joseph
Snow Jr. died this year, Jan. 21.
In 1707, it was ‘‘ordered that every housekeeper shall kill or
purchase 12 blackbirds or 4 crows before the 1st of May annu-
ally ; and every single-man of 21 years age or more shall kill 6
blackbirds or 2 crows annually as aforesaid.” For neglect of
this requisition a fine of 6s. on housekeepers, and 2s. on single-
men, was imposed.
In 1708, May 8, Edward Bangs, Thos. Clarke, and John Gray
were app. a com. to complain to the court of Quarter Sessions,
of obstructions in the highway through the “Great Lots,” this
way being now “ shut up.” Kenelm Winslow Jr. and Joseph
Paine were chosen agents to settle the bounds between this
town and Yarmouth; also to “ agree with the agents of Yarmouth
that residents in either place shall be taxed in the town where
respectively they belong for any lands or property they may
own in the other town.” It was voted “ to establish at the
town’s charge schools of a higher order than heretofore existing
here; ” and Edward Bangs was appointed “ to answer to the
presentment of the town ” for past neglect in this matter.
In 1709, provision was made for a school tax, and the select-
men were directed “ to settle the schoolmaster as to his several
removes and settlements in the town for the present year.” It
was voted “to give the minister, Mr. Stone, £4 per annum for,
the three years in which the town had agreed to furnish his fire-
wood, and £10 per annum for the time to come, making his salary
£70 a year, he finding himself in firewood.” To this, Mr. Stone
did not consent. The laws being peremptory touching the sup-
port of the ministry, the town was under the necessity, before
the close of the year, of assembling to choose agents to repre-
sent its interests in an action m the case; and app. Ens. Wm.
Mirrick and Joseph Paine. The old highway laid out by the
“old-comers,” from the county road into the woods, being judged
inconvenient, was discontinued and a new road ordered. The
old road, contents about 4 acres, was sold for £10, which was
appropriated towards purchasing and laying out the new high-
way.
In 1710, the town voted to omit the choice of a representative
to the Gen. Court, and instructed the selectmen to “ return to
the Hon. Court our humble desire to be excused.” The ex-
penses attending the action in court the previous year, the
Crown vs. the Town, seem to have had a quickening influence;ANNALS OF HARWICH.
499
for, besides an appropriation for “ glass for the meeting-house,” it
was “ voted that the former contract between us and our minister,
so far as concerns the salary, firing and repairing the house he
now dwells in, be thrown up; and for the present year and for-
ward we do make the salary annually £80, in money as it shall
pass in dealing in the Province, from time to time ; and that this
be a stated salary henceforward during his continuance with us
in the work of the ministry.
In 1711, Mr. John Mayo being chosen representative to the
General Court, it was voted “ to pay him 4s. per diem, including
the time going and returning.”
In 1712, it was “voted that all the lands given by ‘the propri-
etors of Harwich ’ to this town for a training-place, and for a
burial-place, shall lie unfenced, except so much as is given to
Mr. Stone and that he has previously fenced with the ministerial
land.” “Voted, also, that Ens. Mirrick and Kenelm Winslow
Jr. run the range between Jona. Bangs’ land and the ministerial
land now in Mr. Stone’s improvement, and set it out by bounds;
as also measure the land of Dea. Freeman, before Mr. Stone’s
door, and set out so much of the land that belongs to the training-
place adjoining the said Freeman’s land, by the pound, by way
of exchange with the town.” A com. was app. “ to hire a school-
master, and settle and provide for him.” Provision was made
for agents of this town and Eastham to have care of the com-
mons’ lands laid out as per agreement, Oct. 16, 1705. “A road
was laid out from the meeting-house to the south neighborhood,
by allowance of ‘ the purchasers ’; beginning at the head of the
Great Lots, butting on the highway formerly laid out on the east-
erly side of Edward Bangs’ lot; thence southerly between John
Freeman’s land and Dean’s land to the former road allowed by
‘the purchasers,’ to the South Neighborhood, passing the ponds
and terminating at Coy’s Brook.” Mr. John Mayo and Joseph
Paine were app. “ agents to answer in Gen. Court, in the town’s
behalf, to the petition of Monamoy, and show why the prayer of
said petition should not be granted. Ens. Joseph Paine died
this year, Oct. 6.
In 1713, the “road from Potonomicut to the meeting-house,”
was laid out; and, soon after, “ a way from the Queen’s road to
the shore, running northerly and easterly.” The town “ voted
to add £4 to the sum which the Province allows, to be paid to
any person who shall kill any old wolf or wolves and bring the
heads of the same to the constable; and £1 for young wolves,500
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
excepting any taken out of wolves’ bellies.” Mr. Chilingsworth
Foster and others had “liberty granted to set up a horse-house”
— i. e., sheds — “near the meeting-house.” It was voted, July
27, to “ pay 9d. per week for a convenient house for Mr. Osborne
to keep school in.” Also “ to make an addition of 18 feet in
breadth to the back part of the meeting-house; Messrs. John
Mayo, Gershom Hall, and Edw. Bangs special agents to carry
the order into effect, and to place the seats according to their
best judgment.” It was also “voted that if Mr. Stone will fence
with cedar the town’s land now occupied by him, his heirs shall
have liberty to take the fence off after his decease, giving the
town three months’ notice.” Also “ that the selectmen be au-
thorized to agree with the town of Easthain respecting the tax-
ing of property of non-residents.”
In 1714, the work on the meeting-house was still in progress,
when, Aug. 2, it was “ agreed to leave also the management of
the old part of the house to the aforesaid agents with restriction
only that they are not to make any new pews in the same, except
for the minister’s family.”
A proprietor’s book of records was this year opened, Mar. 24,
embracing records of “lands lately purchased of the Quasons,
lying in the southerly part of the town, being the 16 shares pro-
priety.1 The proprietors being legally assembled, made choice
of Nicholas Snow to be Proprietor’s Clerk, and voted to divide
said lands into shares, or lots; and chose Tho’s. Atkins, Steph.
Hopkins, Joshua Hopkins, John Gray, Jos. Doane, and Nicholas
Snow to lay out said lands, or as much thereof as may be found
convenient, into lots or shares in order to cast (or draw by lots)
that each proprietor may have his just and equal proportion; and
also to settle with particular men the bounds that butt on said
lands, according to reason, justice, and a good conscience; also
to rectify a mistake in the bounds of Joseph Quason’s lot to him
laid out toward Muddy Cove ; and also, in particular, join with
Joseph Nickerson and bound his 50 acres of land and meadow
at Muddy Cove, to the content of his deed thereof.” Also “that
said committee shall hear the claims of those persons that chal-
lenge lands within the boundaries of the proprietors, and satisfy
and settle the same.” Thomas Atkins, of Chatham was then
chosen agent to “ prosecute any persons presuming without legal
1 See Yol. I. 308, for notice of the first records, and entries on cover.ANNALS OF HARWICH.
501
right to “ cut timber, wood, fencing-stufij etc. upon the aforesaid
lands, or in any way trespassing thereon.”
Gershorn Hall, Kenelin Winslow Sr., Ens. Myrick, Lt. Thos.
Clark, and Tho’s Snow were chosen, Oct. 4, a com. “ to seat per-
sons, or place them where they shall sit, in the meeting-house.”
The amount of taxes this year, was £140 ; the following year,
£160. Mr. Jonathan Freeman died Ap. 27, aged 36.
In 1715, the town granted “to Capt. Sears and Lt. Thomas
Clark, liberty to build, each of them, a pew in the meeting-house
in such places as Dea. Freeman and Ens. Myrick shall lay out.”
It was also “voted that the selectmen take from Chilingsworth
Foster’s rates what he was rated for his Indian girl.” Kenelm
Winslow Jr. and John Freeman Jr. were appointed by the
town “ to look to the boys on Sabbath days to keep them from
playing in meeting.” Voted also “ to give our schoolmaster £48
a year, for two years; ” also “ to give Mr. Stone the house he
occupies, and one quarter of an acre of land under and around
it.” Mr. John Dillingham d. this year, May 27,1 and Mr.
Kenelm Winslow, Nov. 11.
In 1716, Dea. Thomas Freeman died Feb. 9, aged 62. Mrs.
Rebecca Freeman, executrix of her late husband Thomas, peti-
tioned for the revival of proceedings of proprietors of land,
against Robert Nickerson and others.
In f717, Mr. Philip Selew was engaged as schoolmaster, at
lMr. John Dillingham was s. of Edward of S., and removed here
prob. between 1G 70-80. He, with John Wing who also removed from S.,
were concerned in the Indian title to the “ land lying and being in the lib-
erties or constablerick of Yarmouth, containing all that land lying between
the place commonly called Bound Brook on the W., and the middle of
Saquetucket River on the E. from the North Sea to the South Sea.” It is
said that Mr. D. owned two-elevenths of the whole. He m., in S., Elisa.,
dr. of Mr. Hy. Feake Mar. 24, 1G50; and, from his will Nov. 15, 1707, it
appears that he had, at least, John; Hannah, who m.-Thorp; Rebecca,
’who m. Gray; and Sarah, who m. Jones. His wid. Elisa, d. Dec. 5, 1720,
a?. 73. John, s. of John 1st., m. Lydia Chapman, dr. of Isaac, and had
John Mar. 23, 1702; Elisa. Aug. 2, 1703, who m. Elnathan Wing Oct. 12,
1721 ; Lydia June 21, 1705, who m. Roland Clark Nov. 5, 1724 ; Hannah
Feb. 2, 170G-7, who m. Jona. Bourne of S. Oct. 14, 1725; Rebecca June
24, 1709, who m. Amos Knowles of E. Jan. 29, 1729-30; Isaac May 4,
1711 ; Abigail June 2, 1713, who m. Prince Freeman Jr. Nov. 17, 1731;
Edward May 17, 1715 ; Thankful Ap. 18, 1718, who m. Thos. Pope of S.
Sept. 2G, 1735; and Sarah Feb. 10, 1719-20, who m. Benj. Freeman,
Mar. 15, 1738. Mr. D. d. Sept. 11, 1746; his wid. d. Sept. 4, 1760, se. 80.
John, b. 1702, m. Mehit. Gray Dec. 29, 1726, who d. Feb. 21, 1738 ; 2d,
Abigail-----, who d. about 1749; 3d, Mary Nve of S. May 16, 1751, who
d. a wid. 1764. He d. 1763. Issue: Desire 1729; Susanna 1732; Rhoda
1735 ; Mehit. 1739 ; and John Nov. 8, 1752.502
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
£48. The rep. to the Gen. Court was allowed 5s. per diem for
his service, three days being allowed for going and the same for
returning. Mr. Thomas Freeman, son of Dea. Thomas, died
Mar. 22, aged 40; and in Dec. Mr. Samuel Cole.
In 1718, it was “voted, in consideration of the prices of pro-
visions, to give Rev. Mr. Stone £10 extra for the present year.”
The town being “ presented for not having a sufficient pound,”
Lt. Jos. Freeman was app. to answer for the town, at court. Mr.
Simon Crosby died Jan. 19 ; Mr. Robert Asten, Feb. 25; Mr.
Ananias Wing, Aug. 30; and Mr. Stephen Hopkins, Oct. 10.
In 1719, Mr. Selew was still in the town’s service as school-
master, at a salary of £50; and it was “ voted to divide the town
into societies — each to have the benefit of the school its part of
the time; and no other society shall break in upon it for the
time being.” The tax assessed this year was £210. Chilings-
worth Foster was chosen to answer at the Gen. Court “ a peti-
tion which the easternmost part of the town has put in; and, if
necessary, to employ counsel.”
In 1720, it was ordered that a grammar school be established;
and Mr. John Mayo was app. “to answer to the town’s present-
ment for not having a pound and stocks.” Mr. Nathaniel
Sears died July 19.
In 1721, it was voted “to allow Mr. John Gray, our represen-
tative, one-half so much as he was fined in Boston for not attend-
ing Court; ” also “ to give Mr. Philip Selew £50, to keep school
this year, provided he will pay one-half what the town shall be
liable to pay if fined for want of a grammar school.” Messrs.
John Mayo, Thos. Clark, and Chil. Foster were trustees of the
town’s proportion of the £50,000 loan. Mr. John Freeman died
July 27, aged 70.
In 1722, Mr. Nathaniel Myrick was app. to answer for the
town, to a presentment for not having a sufficient highway be-
tween Yarmouth and Chatham. Provision was made to refund
to Capt. Samuel Sears “ money which he paid to the soldiers the
last time they went out in the king’s service.” The constable
“having received for taxes 50s. counterfeit, the town voted to
sustain the loss and “ to allow Capt. Sears £3.10 paid for hal-
berts and mending drum.” It was further agreed “ to build a
new meeting-house on the spot where the old one now stands,—
to be of good timber, boarded, clap-boarded, shingled, plastered,
and glazed ; also with seats as the town shall direct.” For this
purpose, £20 was raised, and it was “ voted that the town’s pro-ANNALS OP HARWICH.
503
portion of the £50,000 loan be used as far as it will go; ” also
“ that room be left around the body of the house, next to the
walls, below, for pews^ — the galleries to be fully seated?
In 1728, the sum of £250 was raised by taxation to defray the
expenses of building, and £190 additional for other town charges.
It was ordered that the old meeting-house be sold. Bucks were
prohibited from running at large to the detriment of the flocks
of sheep.
The arrangements for the new meeting-house had
been a matter of grave consideration. The pews were
not yet built; but the places for them were designat-
ed and chalked out, namely, “ all around the inside of
the house next the walls from the pulpit stairs around
to the pulpit again ; ” and it was finally agreed that
the spots for pews be sold, — in aggregate for £130,
and not under, — Capt. Sears, Capt. Edw. Bangs, and
Lt. Joseph Freeman to proportion the £130 to the 22
spots reserved for pews, — the prices to be “ according
to the dignity of place.” It was subsequently “thought
better that Mr. Eaton, Mr. North, and Mr. Hinckley,”
as entirely disinterested, should perform this service ;
and it was “ agreed that every man rated highest have
a choice in order; to wit: “ he that is rated highest of
all shall have the first choice; he that is rated next
highest shall have the second choice, and so succes-
sively ; provided, however, that if any do not, on the
first Monday in Sept, next, appear at the old meeting-
house, in town-meeting, and make their selection and
pay the money, they shall forfeit the privilege of
choice.” The minister’s pew was reserved “ at the E.
side of the front door.” The other spots intended for
pews were, on the day appointed, taken; numbering,
including the minister’s, from 1 to 23, beginning at the
pulpit stairs and so westerly to the northwest comer
of the room, and thence southerly, and so around until
the easterly end of the pulpit is reached; as follows:504
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
1.	Lt. Thos. Clark, £11.00
2.	Mr. Kenelm Winslow, 7.10
3.	Capt. Sam’l Sears, 4.10
4.	Mr. Mayo, who gave it
to his son John, and
to Jos. Hopkins, 5.15
5.	Ens. Benj. Freeman, 5.10
6.	Wm. Gray, who passed
it to Joshua Bangs, 5.15
7.	Thos. Clark Jr.,	5.05
8.	Chs. Foster, who gave
it to his six children
by his first wife, 4.10
9.	John Wing Sr.,	5.10
10.	Ens. Prince Snow, 6.00
11.	Judah Hopkins,	5.05
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
Minister’s pew,
Capt. Edw. Bangs, £6.05
Wm. Freeman, who
passed it to Edward
Bangs Jr.,	5.05
Jona. Small,	4.05
Steph. Hopkins, who	
passed it to Lt. Jos.	
Freeman,	5.05
Serg. Sam’l Bangs,	5.10
Kath’l Freeman,	5.05
Sam’l Hall,	5.15
Serg. Jno. Freeman,	4.05
Capt. Edm. Freeman,	7.10
Mr. John Gray,	6.10
Mr. Jno. Dillingham,	7.15
Igg" Lt. Thos. Clark had the first choice ; and Mr. Kenelm
Winslow the second; but, after these, the order adopted in the
record is not indicative of the comparative wealth of the pur-
chasers,— the order of the numbering of pews being followed,
not of the choice.
It was then “ voted that the three hindmost seats in the house,
below, be left for the boys that are under 12 years old; and three
seats above in the men’s gallery be left for older boys to sit in ;
and that the selectmen see to the getting two men to look after
the boys that they be made to sit in the seats appointed for
them, and that they be kept from playing; and if any of the
boys above 12 years old, that sit in the galleries, do play on Sab-
bath day, in the time of public worship, they be brought below
and compelled to sit there with the boys that are under 12 years
old, until they leave off playing on the Sabbath.” It was'also
w voted that the same course be taken with the girls.” It was
now also voted to give John Mayo Jr. the old meeting-house,
“ to make up in part his loss by being burned out.” An agent
was app. “ to answer to the town’s presentment for not having
the King’s road cleared according to law.”
In 1724, Mar. 10, it was “ voted, very unanimously, that the
charge of the present wars should be borne by the town in gen-
eral, by way of rate.” It was also “ ordered that the selectmen,
with the commissioned officers, have the ordering of the money
raised for defraying the charges of the present wars ; and, in lieuANNALS OF HARWICH.
505
of volunteers, hire men to answer calls for soldiers,” — to which
last vote, Capt. Edw. Bangs and Ens. Benjamin Freeman did
then and there “ declare their dissent, and entered their protest
against it.” The town, having each year added something by
special vote to Mr. Stone’s salary now voted £20 additional.
In 1725, it was voted to raise £59.13 to pay the second instal-
ment of one fifth part of the town’s bank loan. It was voted to
add to Mr. Stone’s stated salary £30 this year, making the aggre-
gate £110. “John King was chosen by the town to look after
the boys and youth, to keep them from playing and profaning
the Sabbath-day; and the town voted to stand by the said John
King if he should find it necessary to strike a boy or youth in
the exercise of his authority.” A large com. was then app. “ to
settle the school, and proportion the six removes, both as to the
number of families and children belonging to each remove, till
the school hath gone once around the town.”
As it may serve to give some correct view of heads of families
at this period, and of their different locations, we present the
above “ six removes ” as settled for the time being, namely,1
First remove,2 embracing 16 families, and 29 children, to
have the school with them six months and one week.3 Heads
of families were —
Capt. Sam’l Sears, Jno. Dillingham Sr., Dea. Tho’s Lincoln,
John Wing,
Jona. Sears,
Joshua Sears,
Samuel Sears Jr.,
Kenelm Winslow Sr., Scotto Clark,
Thomas Winslow,
Nath’l Clark,
Elnathan Wing,
Joseph Sears,
Kenelm Winslow Jr.,
Lt. Thos. Clark,
Poland Clark.
Second remove,4 embracing 25 families, and 55 children, to
have the school eight months and three weeks: —
Mr. John Gray,
John Tucker,
Jacob Ellis,
Lot Gray,
Thomas Snow,
Joshua Bangs,
Dea. Crosby,
Eben’r Paine,
Prince Freeman,
Hatsuld Freeman,
Ens. My rick,
Joshua My rick,
1	The removes commencing, if we are rightly informed, at the N. W. part
of the town, continued thence to the N. E., to the S. E., and to the S.
2	Satucket.
3	It will be borne in mind that these removes contemplated a longer
period for their completion than a single year. They were to be continued
“ around the town,” in the order indicated, until the school should have
been enjoyed in each part the time allotted.
4	The present town of Brewster, W. of the Cong, meeting-house.
VOL. II.	64506
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Benj. Freeman,	Edw. Bangs Jr.,
Nath’l Freeman,	Steph. Griffith,
Gershorn Phinney,	Benj. Hatch,
Jno. Fletcher,	Steph. My rick,
Judah Berry,
Mr. Stone,
Capt. Edw. Bangs,
Capt. Edm. Freeman,
Lt. Jos. Freeman.
Third remove,1 22 families, 56 children, eight months and
three weeks: —
Edward Snow,
Jona. Bangs Jr.,
Benj. My rick,
Nath’l Myrick,
Wid. Mayo,
Joseph Mayo,
Watson Freeman,
George Weeks,
Fourth remove,2
one week: —
Benj. Hopkins,
John King,
Roger King,
Eleazer Crosby,
Jona. Cobb,
Eben. Nickerson,
Capt. Jona. Bangs,
Sam’l Bangs,
Jabez Snow,
Sam’l Hopkins,
John Taylor,
Philip Selew,
Thos. Clark Jr.,
Jona. Lincoln,
Judah Hopkins,
John Maker,
John Mayo,
Chil. Foster,
John Snow,
Jno. Freeman,
Steph. Hopkins,
Nath’l Hopkins,
Joseph Hopkins.
25 families, 47 children, eight months and
Wid. Mary Crosby, Ens. Snow,
Thos. Crosby,	Wm. Freeman,
Nath’l Crosby,	Richard Godfrey,
William Crosby,	Benj.	Maker,
Joseph Paine,	Wid.	Maker,
Wid. Hannah Crosby,Wm.	Smith,
Thos. Crosby,	Edw.	Kendrick,
Jabez Lewis,	Wm.	Baker.
Sam’l Crosby,
Fifth remove,!
John Yeat,
John Ilurd,
Nath’l Gould,
Judah Rogers,
John Rogers,
14 families, 32 childr<
Eben. Rogers,
Sam’l Mayo,
Steph. Cole,
John Young,
Eleazer Rogers,
i, four months: —
W m. Long,
Wm. Nickerson,
Wid. Nickerson,
Josiah Nickerson,
Sixth remove,4 26 families, 35 children, six months and one
week: —
Jos. Nickerson Jr.,
John Streigh,
Benj. Phillips,
Cornelius Ellis,
Wm. Peney,
Josiah Swift,
Mr. Gershorn Hall,
Jona. Hall,
Sam’l Hall,
1	The present town of Brewster, E. of the Cong, meeting-house.
2	Namskaket.	3 Potanumaquut.	4 South.ANNALS OF HARWICH.
507
Zachary Small,	Edw. Hall,	John Berry,
Jona. Small,	Sam’l Nickerson, Sam’l Berry,
And. Clark,	John Smith,	Matthew Gage,
Eph’m Covel,	Beriah Broadbrooks, William Chase.
Isaac Atkins,	Wm. Gray,
Sam’l Atkins,	John Buck,
fgg* The school shall begin at the westernmost part of the
town first, and so remove eastward.
Mr. Edward Hall died Jan. 22, 1727,1 and Mr. John
Tucker Aug. II.2
In 1728, it was voted to add to the salary of Rev. Mr. Stone
£60, making his future regular stipend £140. Trustees were
app. to receive from the province treasury this town’s proportion
of “ the £60,000 bank-money,” namely: Capt. Edmund Freeman,
Capt. Joseph Freeman, and Mr. Chilingsworth Foster. Capt.
Jonathan Bangs died this year, Nov. 9.
In 1729, the town voted to add £3 to the salary of Mr. Selew,
the schoolmaster, to compensate him forgoing to Potanumaquut.
Mr. Samuel Hall died Feb. 19, 1730; and Dea. Thomas
Crosby, Ap. 21, 1731, se. 68.
In 1732, a proposition was made, and strenuously urged, that
the town “ build a wharf, or pier, near the point of rocks, for the
safety of vessels,” but was negatived. Mr. Stephen Myrick
died Mar. 11;3 Mr. William Gray, Mar. 31; Mr. Jabez Lewis,
Ap. 6;4 and Ens. William Myrick, Oct. 30. Mr. Gershom
Hall d. this year, Oct. 31, se. 84, and was buried in Yarmouth.
In 1733, Thomas Clark Esq. was “ allowed 6s. per day for at-
tendance as representative last year, four days’ pay to be added
thereto for time in going and returning.” It was ordered that
the school be kept on the north side of the town, at four places
in turn, for the space of six years next ensuing; and Mr. John
1	See p. 365. Mr. Stephen Myrick, g. s. of Ens. Wm. lst,m. Deborah
Snow Nov. 21, 1706, and had Joshua Ap. 17, 1708; Snow Jany. 15,
1709-10; Deborah 1712; Sam’l Jan. 5, 1714-15; Oliver Dec. 14, 1716;
Thos. Dec. 12, 1718; Simeon Ap. 1721; Jabez Feb. 1723 ; and Seth
Aug. 1725.
2	Mr. John Tucker m. Eleanor Clark June 14, 1717, and had John
Ap. 3, 1718 ; Isaac Dec. 8, 1719 ; and William Jan. 12, 1722.
3	Mr. Edward Hall s. of Gershom, m. twice, and had Bethia Dec. 1,
1709, who m. Andrew Clark jr. 1729; Hannah 1711, who m. Tully
Crosby 1739 ; Mary 1713, who m. Gershom Hall 1734 ; Edward Ap. 19,
1717, who was a deacon, and d. 1797 ; Sarah 1720 ; and Patience 1726.
4	Mr. Jabez Lewis was prob. s. of Jabez of Be. He m. Sarah Lincoln
Feb. 27, 1723-4, and had Thos. Dec. 22, 1724; and Sarah Mar. 4,1727-8.508
niSTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Dillingham, Capt. Joseph Freeman, and Messrs. Edward Snow
and William Freeman, with the selectmen, were app. to propor-
tion to each “ remove ” the families and children and the time
each remove shall have the school. It was also ordered that
Potanumaquut people, and the pebple on the south side, shall
have the school-money that they are assessed, to lay out in tl 3
support of schools as they and the selectmen shall agree. Ti
whole amt. raised for town charges this year was £240. The
bounds between this town, and Yarmouth and Eastham, were
renewed by Edward Snow and John Dillingham Jr. on the part
of Harwich. Mr. Stephen Hopkins d. Ap. 9.1
1 From Stephen Hopkins, the Pilgrim, who was assistant 1633-6, and
d. 1644, in Plym., was Giles, who came over with his father and step-
mother and servants in the Mayflower, and set. here, and d. abt. 1690.
The servants, Edw. Dotey and Edw. Lester, it will be recollected, early
gave proof of their chivalry as duellists, to the horror of the Puritans, and
were punished by being tied neck and heels, and thus exposed to public
gaze. The Pilgrim ancestor, Stephen, had by his 1st wife, Giles; and Con-
stance, who m. Nicholas Snow; by his 2d w. Elisa., had Damaris, who m.
Jacob Cook 1646 ; the three eldest were b. in England. He had also a
son Ocearius, b. on the voyage, who d. inf.; Deborah b. 1622, who m.
And. Ring 1646 ; Caleb; Ruth ; a dr. who d. inf.; and Elisa., who d. sin-
gle 1666. Giles m. Catharine Whelden of Y., 1639, and had Mary 1640 ;
Stephen 1642; John 1643, d. inf.; Abigail 1644; Deborah 1648 in E.;
Caleb 1650; Ruth 1653; Joshua 1657; Wm. 1660; and Elisa. 1664, d.
inf. Stephen, b. 1642, s. of Giles, m. Mary Myrick, dr. Wm., May 23,
1667, and 2d, Bethia Atkins 1701, and d. bet. 10,1718. He had Elisa.
1668; Steph. July 15, 1670 ; Ruth 1674; Judah 1677 ; Sam’l 1682;
Nath’l 1684; Joseph 1688; Benj. 1690; and Mary 1692, who m. Jno.
Maker Nov. 5, 1714. Caleb, of E., s. of Stephen, d. 1728. He had
Caleb, Nath’l, Thos., and Thankful. Joshua, b. 1657, s. of Giles, m.
Mary Cole, dr. Dan’l, May 26, 1681, and had John Ap. 16, 1683-4, who
d. 1700; Abig’l 1686; Elisha Dec. 17, 1688; Lydia 1692; Mary 1694;
Joshua February 20, 1697-8 ; Hannah 1700; and Phebe 1702. Stephen,
b. 1670, s. of Stephen 2d, m. Sarah Howes May 19, 1692. and d. 1733, as
above. He had Jona. Aug. 20, 1693, who d. 1717; Thankful 1700;
Elkanah Aug. 12, 1702, who d. 1720; Thos. 1704; Eben’r 1707 ; Mary
1709; Phefce 1711, who m. 1st, Samuel Bangs Jr. June 19, 1729, 2d, Jon’a
Bangs Jan’y 4, 1732-3, and 3d, Rev. Josiah Dennis 1746. Judah, b.
1677,m. twice, 1st, Hannah---, 2d, Hannah Mayo May 12, 1720, and had
Mercy 1703; John Sept. 23, 1704 ; Martha 1705 ; Rebecca Oct. 15, 1707,
who m. Jona. Higgins of E.; Judah Oct. 18, 1709; Stephen Jan. 26,
1711-12; Desire 1714; Sylvanus Feb. 14, 1716-17; Hannah 1719; and
Sam’l Mar. 14, 1721. Samuel, b. 1682, by w. Lydia had Richard 1707 ;
Reliance 1709, whom. David CrosbvJune 19, 1735; Lydia 1713; Sarah
1717; Susanna 1719; Moses 17^ifxheodore 1726 ; and Nathan 1729.
Nathaniel, b. 1684, m. Mercy Mayo May 26, 1707, and had David,
Jeremiah, Nath’l, Reuben, Sam’l, James, and Theophilus, besides daugh-
ters. Joseph, b. 1688, m. Mary Mayo Ap. 17, 1712, and had Isaac,
Joseph, Mary, Jonathan, Hannah, Nathan, Prince, and Elisa. Benjamin,
b. 1690, m. Rachel Lincoln Feb. 13, 1717-18, and had Benj., Giles, Seth,
Rachel, Sam’l, Solo., and Edward. The descendants are still numerous on
the Cape ; a volume would scarcely suffice for the genealogy.ANNALS OF HARWICH.
509
In 1734, the bounds between this town and Chatham were
renewed by Chilingsworth Foster and Kenelm Winslow on the
part of Harwich. Thomas Clark Esq. wasapp. agent “to appear
at the Gen. Court to answer the petition which our neighbors,
the Potanumaquut people, have put in desiring to be set off to
Easthara, and show cause why their application should not be
granted. It was also voted that this town will unite with the
towns of Eastham, Truro, Provincetown, and Chatham, in peti-
tioning the Gen. Court that these five towns be set off as a new
and distinct county, and that Thos. Clark Esq. be our agent to
meet commissioners from the several other towns to draw up a
petition to that effect.
In 1735, the amt. raised for town charges was £276.	“ Crows,
blackbirds, bluebirds, and jaybirds, being so destructive in pulling
up the corn in spring-time, and opening ears at harvest-time,” it
was ordered that every householder shall kill six of these smaller
birds and two crows, yearly; and every single-man of 21 or up-
wards shall kill three of the smaller birds and one crow,— the
heads of all such birds killed to be brought to the selectmen on
or before the last day of May, each year. In default thereof, the
delinquents shall be fined. Mr. Nathaniel Freeman died this
year, Aug. 2 ; and Mr. Joshua Gray d. Sept. 2.
In 1736, the amt. raised for town charges was £302; in 1737,
£300 ; and these sums were the average for several succeeding
years.
In 1739, it was voted, that, “ taking into consideration the dif-
ficulty of grinding, by reason that Kenelm Winslow doth take
away the water from the old grist-mill at Stoneybrook, which is
an infringement of the town’s privileges, Col. Edmund Freeman,
Chilingsworth Foster, and Jabez Snow, be a com. to agree with
said Winslow; or, failing to do so, and he still using the water
for his other mill, to the detriment of the town, to petition the
court for relief.” Mr. John Rogers died Jan. 10.
In 1741, it was voted that the salary of the schoolmaster, Mr.
Philip Selew, be £86; and that of the minister of the town, Rev.
Mr. Stone, £150. Messrs. Edm. Freeman, Jos. Freeman, Jabez
Snow, and Jno. Snow, were chosen, May 14, to settle the
schools. They decided on six removes, namely : 1, west end of the
town, 26 weeks, this district to reach as far as Roland Clarke’s;
the next remove 2, to be, from thence east to Jos. Freeman
Esq.’s, 34 w.; 3, thence still east to Mr. Jos. Hopkins, 46 w.; 4,
east to Mr. Rd. Godfrey’s, 34 w.; 5, at Potanumaquut, 22 w.;510
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
and 6, on the south side, 6 w. It was also voted that Dea. Jos.
Mayo and Mr. Edw. Snow be authorized to sell, in behalf of the
town, at auction, to highest bidders, four places for pews in the
gallery of the meeting-house,— two each in the S. W. corner and
S. E. corner.
In 1742, the salary of Mr. Selew, the schoolmaster, was £100,
and of Mr. Stone, the minister, £200. Lt. Prince Snow died
May 24, and Mr. Samuel Bangs Nov. 15.
In 1743, Messrs. Wm. Freeman and Jabez Snow were app.
agents to meet and agree with agents of the town of Eastliam,
respecting the rates of persons in either town owning lands or
meadows in the other,— the design being an amicable and just
arrangement, as in former years, to prevent difficulties growing
out of assessments. The bounds between this town and Eastham
were renewed June 13, and between this town and Chatham
July 8.1
Regulations were made by the town “ to protect the beach-
meadows and sedge-grounds on the north side, between the
bounds of Eastham and Mill Creek in Harwich,” from incursions
by cattle, sheep, etc.; which proceeding being submitted to the
Court of Quarter Sessions, was approved. Capt. Nathaniel
Myrick died Nov. 13.
This was the era of the prolonged religious excite-
ment consequent upon "the Great Awakening” under
the preaching of Edwards in 1734, and which followed
the labors of Whitefield in 1740-2. This year, 1743,
was distinguished by local strifes, which by degrees
ran into a general controversy, dividing the congre-
1 “ Beginning at a pine-knot standing in the meadow, on the S. side of
the Read River, near the mouth of said river; from thence S. into the
South sea; and from sd. knot northerly by the E. side of Lt. Jona. Howes’
meadow and land, till it comes to a cart-way, to a heap of stones on the N.
side of said way, and so northerly to a stone set by a pine stump by the
road that leads from Yarm. to Chatham, a little to the eastward of Joshua
Ellis’s dwelling-house; and so easterly by sd. road till it comes to a stone
set in the ground, near where John Crowell’s old barn stood; and from
thence down to the eel-weir at the Muddy-cove river; and so running
down to the middle of said river till it comes to the sea.” In 1746, the line
being again defined, the record says: u From the place commonly called
the Eel-weir, at Muddy Cove; from thence to the king’s road to a stump
and stone by it, a little S. of Prince Young’s house; from thence southerly
to a stone by a pine brush on the northerly side of the road in the valley
called River-valley; thence southerly down sd. river to a pine knot on the
E. side of said river; thence due S. into the South Sea.”ANNALS OF HARWICH.
511
gational churches throughout New England into two
great factions, the friends and the opposers of Revival
measures. Conflicting views found expression in pub-
lished testimonials.1 The religious interests of the
Cape could not but be somewhat affected by the pre-
vailing agitations of the day. 66 Sejmmtists” as they
were called, began to appear, and were, as all records
show, and as history affirms, not always discriminating
in their views, or united in their alleged reasons for
discontent. Some few of this class were found here,
and in other Cape towns. There is, however, no
evidence of intolerance toward such, we are happy to
be able to assert, found on the records of Cape towns,
churches, or courts.2
1	The first was issued by the Gen. Convention of Cong, ministers as
“ The Testimony of the Pastors of the Churches in the Province of Massa-
chusetts Bay, in New England, at their Annual Convention in Boston,
May 25, 1743, against several Errors in Doctrine and Disorders in Practice
which have of late obtained in various parts of the Land.” The other was
“ The Testimony and Advice of an Assembly of Pastors of Churches in
New England, at a meeting in Boston, July 7, 1743, occasioned by the
late happy Revival of Religion in many parts of the Land.”
2	“ Separatists, in some instances, withdrew from the standing order, be-
cause they were opposed to the revival, even in the mildest form of it;
others, because the churches and ministers would not go with them to the
full extent of their ‘new light’ and new measures. Not a few of these
last, becoming involved in strife with their brethren, and exposing them-
selves to church censure and civil penalties, at length changed their denom-
inational standing, and became Baptists,— not so much through dissatisfac-
tion with their baptism as with the legal distraints upon their property to
support ministers from whom they had conscientiously separated. It is
often insinuated that the civil enactments of that period bore peculiarly
hard upon Baptists ; but what are the facts ? The former restraints upon
their liberties had been relaxed, at least to the acknowledgment of their
right, as a denomination, to organize churches, support ministers, and wor-
ship God in their own way, with a full exemption from assessment to sup-
port ministers of ‘ the standing order/ as the Congregationalists were
called. It was this ‘ standing order/ on which the law bore the hardest,
by compelling all who were not Baptists, or something else known as a dis-
tinct denomination, to pay taxes for the support of the ‘ able, learned, ortho-
dox minister ’ whom the major part of the town voters had settled over
them. Separations, unless brought about in the way provided for by stat-
ute, were not allowable, nor were such Separatists released from their due
proportion of taxes in the society from which they came. This wrought
immense mischief to the Congregationalists, and contributed largely to build
up the Baptists, by driving the disaffected into their ranks.”— Clark's Hist,
of Cong. Ch. in Mass.512
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
A committee was app. by the town, this year, to
ascertain and report who within the town limits are
Quakers, and who are Anabaptists. They reported as
Quakers, “ William Chase, William Eldridge, Samuel
Smith, Jeremiah Chase, Reuben Eldridge, Ephraim
Crowell, and their families; ” as “ Anabaptist, Seth
Clark.” The object of this inquiry was to exempt such
from ministerial rates.
In 1744, Rev. Mr. Stone’s salary was fixed at £200, old tenor.
An agreement between this town and Yarmouth was arranged
amicably this year, respecting rates of non-residents, similar to
that negotiated with Eastham in 1743.
In 1745, the town app. John Snow its agent to prosecute per-
sons trespassing on the ministerial lots. Rev. George Weekes
died this year;1 also, Dec. 7, Doct. Jonathan Bangs, se. 90.2
In 1746, the town voted to “ allow Mr. Patrick Butler £5, old
1	There are many families of the name on the Cape. Some write the
patronymic Weeks, others Weekes. Whether they are of the same stock,
is a question not settled satisfactorily. The name of Weeks appears early
in Sandwich and Falmouth. The descendants of Rev. George Weekes
have a tradition that he was from Dorchester, and was of French or Hugue-
not extraction, and that he was an educated missionary to the Potanuma-
quut Indians. We are not positive in reference to the precise date of his
decease. By records it appears that he m. Deborah Wing Oct. 15, 1714,
but family tradition says he m. a Winslow. Both may be right; for there
is also a family tradition that his son Ammiel was the eldest; and this may
relate to a 2d marriage. Ilis children were: Abigail Aug. 29, 1715;
Mehit. Ap. 21, 1717; Deborah July 26, 1718; Ammiel Ap. 10, 1720;
Hannah, Sept. 20, 1721; Eliz. Sept. 16, 1724; andasonJan. 24, 1725-6,
d. inf. His wile d. Feb. 9, 1 725-6. The circumstances of his death are pain-
ful. His last davs were clouded by lunacy; and, in his wanderings, he per-
ished by exposure to cold in the low ground south of the Harwich Academy,
which is known, from this casualty, as “ Weekes* Hollow ”to the present
day. A sermon, delivered by him on the occasion of Mr. Taylor, of Yarm.,
being buried in a well, see p. 213, was published. Dea. Ammiel, s. of the
preceding, is said to have been named for an uncle, or great-uncle, in
Dorchester, who was admitted to the church there in 1659. He m. Phebe
Small, dr. of Jona. bv his w. Damaris Winslow, and had 3 s. & 3 drs., one
of which drs. m. Obed Brooks Esq. Ebexezer, b. 1759, youngest s. of
Ammiel, m. Roxana Brooks. Branches of the family are at Portland, Me.,
descended from Capt. Lemuel, who removed from this town.
2	Doct. Jonathan Bangs, b. 1685, s. of Capt. Edward, m. Phebe, wid.
of Sam,l Bangs jr., and daughter of Steph. Hopkins, and had Allen Mar.
23, 1733-4. His wid. m. 3d Rev. Josiah Dennis, and d. 1745, ae. 39.
Capt. Joshua, b. 1685, br. of Dr. Jona., m. Mehit. Clark 1713, and
removed to Portland. His youngest dr. m. Hon. Jed. Preble, and from
this m. was Edward Preble, 1761, Commodore U. S. N.ANNALS OF HARWICH.
513
tenor, for his expenses in travelling to Boston the last year to
carry a letter to Joseph Freeman Esq., to enable him to answer
the petition, in Gen. Ct., of the South side people to be set off as
a distinct precinct.” The line between this town and Eastham
was again renewed. Mr. John Dillingham died this year,
Sept. 11.
Notwithstanding some diversity of opinions and
interests, the General Court saw fit, this year, to com-
ply with the request of petitioners, and the distinct
organization of that part of the ancient town of Har-
wich, which still retains the name, commenced. It
was set off and incorporated as the South Precinct,
Jan. 16. The names of those mentioned in the Act of
Inc. of this second parish, were : —
Francis Baker,
Jabez Berry,
Bh. Broadbrook,
Bh. Broadbrook Jr.,
Eb. Broadbrook,
Jno. Broadbrook,
Ezekiel Burgess,
Sam’l Burgess,
Sam’l Burgess Jr.,
Thos. Burgess,
Jas. Cahoon,
Wm. Cahoon,
Eben. Chase,
Andrew Clark Jr.,
Ephm. Covel,
Dan’l Doane,
Elisha Doane,
Moses Doane,
Nath’l Doane,
Isaac Eldridge,
Reuben Eldridge,
Wm. Eldridge,
Benj. Ellis,
Cornelius Ellis,
Cornelius Ellis Jr.,
John Ellis,
John Ellis Jr.,
Joseph Ellis,
Joshua Ellis,
Samuel Ellis Jr.,
James Gage,
Lot Gage,
Matthew Gage,
Thos. Gage,
Lot Gray,
Wm. Gray Jr.,
Edward Hall,
Gershom Hall,
Jon a. Hall,
Thos. Hinckley,
William Long,
Benj. Maker,
Benj. Maker Jr.,
Joseph Maker,
Bar. Nickerson,
Benj. Nickerson,
Edw. Nickerson,
Elisha Nickerson,
Isaac Nickerson,
John Nickerson,
Joshua Nickerson,
Sam’l Nickerson,
Sam’l Nickerson Jr.,
Eben. Paine,
John Penney,
Wm. Penney,
Wm. Penney Jr.,
Jos. Phillips,
Micali Phillips,
Oakes Phillips,
Eleazer Robbins,
Daniel Ryder,
Benj. Small,
Jona. Small,
Jona. Small Jr.,
Zech’h Small,
Elisha Snow,
Josiah Swift,
John Taylor,
Prince Young,
Ammiel Weekes.
VOL. II.
65514
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
The record of proceedings subsequent to incorpo-
ration, is as follows: —
The first meeting of freeholders and other inhab-
itants of the 2d Precinct was holden at the house of
Lot Gray, Mar. 23, by virtue of a warrant issued by
Joseph Doane Esq., of Eastham, who was chosen Mod-
erator. Sam’l Burge Jr. was chosen Clerk ; Edw. Hall,
Benj. Nickerson, and Sam’l Burge Jr., were chosen
Assessors; Edw. Nickerson, Collector; Gershom Hall,
Treasurer; and Sam’l Burge Jr., Edw. Hall, and
Benj. Nickerson, were app. a Committee to call the
meetings for the ensuing year.
At the next meeting, Ap. 8, Mr. Edw. Hall being
moderator, it was voted that the meeting-house shall
stand on the land given by Messrs. Sam’l Nickerson
and Benj. Small; and that the building begun on sd.
land shall be the Precinct meeting-house. Messrs.
Eph. Covel, Jona. Small, and Matt. Gage, were app. a
building-committee ; and Mr. Sam’l Burge Jr. was del-
egated to obtain a minister.
In 1747, Messrs. Thos. Hinckley and Joshua Nick-
erson were constituted a com. to collect the accounts
for the construction of the meeting-house, before it
became the property of the precinct. The services of
Mr. Edw. Pell being obtained, Messrs. Sam’l Burge Jr.
and Benj. Nickerson were app. a com. to engage him
to continue to preach, with a view to a settlement.
For his probation services, from Ap. 26 to July 12, he
received £30 18s. lOd.
At a meeting, July 6, Joseph Doane Esq., mod-
erator, it was voted to call Mr. Pell to the pastoral
office, and to give him a salary of 160 bushels of
grain, namely : 15 bu. of rye and 10 bu. of wheat, to be
paid annually, in the month of Sept., and 135 bu. of
Indian corn, to be paid annually, in Nov.; also, to buyANNALS OF HARWICH.
515
a piece of land, and build upon it a convenient house
for his use, and deliver to him annually, at his door,
16 cords of oak wood and 20 cords of pine, so long as
he shall continue in the ministry of this precinct.
At a meeting, July 11, Nath’l Doane, moderator, a com. was
app., consisting of the moderator, together with Jona. and Zech.
Small, “to agree with Mr. Small for the time and money he hath
expended about the meeting-house before it became the property
of the Precinct. Nath’l Doane was app. on the building com. in
place of Mr. Gage; and a com. was also app. to buy or build a
parsonage-house.
Rev. Edward Pell was invested with the pastoral
office, Aug. 12.1 It was voted, Sept. 29, to make a
convenient number of pews in the meeting-house.
In 1748, Rev. Isaiah Dunster was settled as colleague
with Rev. Mr. Stone, and as assistant minister of the
North Precinct.2
The amt. raised this year for town charges was £400, old tenor.
Joseph Freeman Esq. was app. agent to prefer a petition to the
Gen. Court “ to remit a part of the Province taxes this year, in
consideration of the fruits of the earth being in so remarkable a
manner cut off by drought, grass-hoppers, and otherwise.”
In 1749, the amt. raised for town charges was £500, old tenor.
Mr. Ammiel Weekes having been chosen constable Feb. 13, at a
subsequent meeting, Feb. 27, it was voted to choose another in
his place, u he having hidden himself so that he could not be
warned.” The lines between this town and Eastham, Chatham,
and Yarmouth, were severally renewed. School-removes were
settled, and it was agreed that no pupils shall go to school from
one remove to another, “ unless it be to learn Latin ; and, in such
case, the master shall keep such pupils wholly to that exercise,
and afford no other instruction.” Mr. FTath’l Snow died this
year, in Mar.
In 1751, disturbing elements, through causes which
we have already suggested, continued to exist. Sep-
'Rev. Mr. Pell was b. 1711 ; grad. H. C. 1730.
2 Rev. Mr. Dunster was b. in Cambridge, and grad H. C. 1741.516
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
aratists, or New Lights, as they chose to be called,
held meetings in the south part of the town, and, it is
said, had distinct organizations.”1
In 1752, the town joined with others in petitioning for redu-
cing the number of courts held in the county, proposing that
there be only two sessions annually of the Superior Court of
Com. Pleas. The lines between this and adjoining towns were
again defined, and agreements renewed for 30 yrs., in respect to
rates of non-residents.
Rev. Edward Pell, minister of the South Precinct,
died Nov. 24, m. 41. His grave-stone is yet to be seen
in the rear of the Cong, meeting-house in Brewster.2
In 1754, Rev. Benjamin Crocker was called, Ap. 25,
to the ministry of the South Precinct, as successor to
Rev. Mr. Pell.3
In 1755, the Rev. Nathaniel Stone, the first minister
*We find no records, either town, parish, or ecclesiastical, to confirm
this; but it is traditionally reported that Rev. Elisha Paine, a native of
Eastham, some time in Connecticut, and a Baptist clergyman, in regular
standing, preached in these parts in 1740, and was instrumental in gather-
ing adherents to the Baptist faith, his labors culminating finally in estab-
lishing the Baptist church now worshipping in W. Harwich. Rev. Rd.
Chase, it is claimed, was the first minister, in 1 751, but was not immersed
until two years after. It is also said that Mr. Joshua Nickerson became
the minister of a 2d church in 1749, succeeded in 1 773 by Mr. Sam’l
Nickerson, both of whom were New Lights; and that their associates
finally dissolved their organization in 1780. It is said, moreover, that in
1781, a church was gathered in another part of the town, receiving a Bap-
tist minister, but that none, except those at W. Harwich, were close com-
munionists. We accept all this, with doubts of its entire accuracy in respect
to dates. Other accounts say that “ the Baptist church at West Harwich
was originally a 4 Separate church/ founded by separation from the Second
Parish in 1763, and which, like others of those separate churches, finally
became Baptist; and that Mr. Elkanah Nickerson was the first minister.”
Rev. Richard Chase was, Baptist tradition says, “deposed Jan. 7, 1787, for
intemperance, and died, m. 80, an excommunicant.”
2	It is said that Mr. Pell had, in view of death, expressed a desire to be
buried on the N. side of the town, and was, accordingly, interred in that
ancient cemetery. But the reason which tradition reports, that “ if left
among the pines of the S. Precinct, he might be overlooked in the resur-
rection,” we regard as apocryphal. He was, doubtless, a man of some
humor, and at some time, in speaking of his locality, he may have indulged
in some such facetious remark, which, perhaps, after his decease, became
coupled with his choice of resting-place in the dust.
3	Mr. Crocker was from Ipswich, and grad. H. C. 1713.ANNALS OF HARWICH.
517
of the town, and continuing pastor of the North Pre-
cinct, died, ae. 88.1
A call being made at this time for soldiers for His Majesty’s
service, and an impressment contemplated, £200 was raised by
the town to hire men for the emergency.
In 1756, Rev. John Dennis was settled as minister of
the South Precinct.2
Mr. John Mayo died, Feb. 1; also Mr. Edward Bangs, June
o. The town records this year contain the following transcribed
request, which, no doubt, was respected : “Yarn., 16 day, 3 mo.,
1756. We, Jno. Kelly and Seth Kelly, of Yarm., do certify that
Matthew Gage doth visit our meetings and own our principles.
We do earnestly desire that the assessors would omit him in the
Priest’s rate.” A similar request was made in behalf of James
Gage the following year; and also in behalf of James Ellis, the
next succeeding.
In 1657, Mar. 7, a bounty of £4 was offered to each man, not
exceeding twelve, who shall enlist to supply the places of those
otherwise to be drawn or impressed for the projected expedition.
Jacob Davis, Theophilus Berry, Wm. Crofle, and Sam’l Ellis,
were app. “ to take care of the boys on Lord’s days, and whip
them if found playing.”
The Baptist church now worshipping in West Har-
wich, the oldest, by organization, of the order on the
Cape, it is said, was gathered about this time, and Rev.
Richard Chase was installed pastor, Sept. 9.3
In 1758, the line between this town and Eastham was run.
Messrs. Joseph Wing and Jabez Snow Jr. were app. “to take
care of the boys on Lord’s days, and correct them that are under
1	See Annals of Brewster; also Yol. I. 390.
2	Mr. Dennis was from Ipswich, and grad. H. C. 1730.
3	Benedict, Hist, of the Bap., says the order here were “ long harassed by
ministerial taxes, and two women were set in the stocks.” We have
searched in vain for any confirmation of this allegation. Neither records nor
contemporary writings are found in its support; and we are distrustful of
its accuracy. See p. 218. The alleged persecutions of earhj times is a
subject entirely distinct from this period. When, in 1663, a Baptist church
was gathered at Seekonk, the first established; and, in 1665, at Boston,
there were fines and imprisonments, as neither Backus nor Benedict have
failed to note. See also Clark’s Hist. Cong. Chs., p. 62-67.. 518
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
14 yrs. old, and complain to a justice of those older, if found
playing on the Sabbath.”
In 1759, another attempt was made, by petition, to have the
number of courts reduced. To induce men to enlist as soldiers,
“ for the invasion of Canada,” £4 bounty was offered by the town.
Lt. Thos. Clark d. Nov. 18, se. 88.
In 1760, Rev. Mr. Dennis resigned his pastorate of
the South Precinct, and, in Dec., the Precinct was cited
to answer at the Court of Gen. Sessions, on complaint
of Mr. Dennis, that the stipend promised him was not
paid. Mr. Joseph Snow died Ap. 30,1761.
In 1762, the frequently recurring “running of the
lines ” between this and the adjoining towns was re-
enacted; and, in 1763, the introduction of Brady and
Tate’s version of the Psalms, in public worship, was,
Nov. 22, a marked era in the North Precinct.
In 1765, Rev. Jonathan Mills, having been called to
the pastorate of the South Precinct church, the parish
concurred in the election, Nov. 7. Mr. Mills accepted
the charge, and entered on the duties of his pastorate
the following Spring.1 Mr. Thomas Freeman d. Jan. 19,
1766 ; also Mr. John Snow, Feb. 15.
In 1768, Sept. 6, a meeting was held “ to see if the town will
app. a com. to meet with those that may be sent from other towns
in the province, to convene at Fanuel Hall, Boston, agreeably to
the proposals of the town of Boston.” Decided in the negative.
Mr. Benjamin Bangs died Oct. 31, 1769.
In 1770, “the Potanumaquut people desiring to be set off to
Eastham,” the arrangement was effected.
In 1773, May 21, the Rev. Jonathan Mills, pastor of
the South Precinct, died, ae. 73.
In 1774, political questions beginning to agitate, a
town meeting was held, Nov. 8, to app. delegates to a
county congress. Mr. Kenelm Winslow was mode-
rator. Objections urged against the legality of the
1 Mr. Mills was from Braintree, b. 1700 ; grad. H. C. 1723.ANNALS OF HARWICH.
519
meeting being overruled, it was decided that all pres-
ent, from 21 yrs. upward, shall be allowed to vote;
and Dea. Edward Hall, Mr. Solomon Freeman, and Mr.
Joseph Snow, were appointed to represent this town
in said county congress.
In 1775, Jan. 16, it was voted not to pay the prov-
ince tax to the province treasurer. At a meeting,
Jan. 25, much feeling was elicited by an attempt to
obtain a vote not to be represented in the court to
assemble at Cambridge. Mr. Benjamin Freeman was
elected. At a meeting, Ap. 24, Solomon Freeman Esq.
moderator, it was voted to purchase 100 fire-arms, to
be delivered to those persons in town who are destitute
of equipments; also 6 bis. powder, and 1 cask of bul-
lets. It was voted, May 25, to pay the province
moneys to Henry Gardner Esq., and that all returns of
taxes be made accordingly.
In 1776, June 17, it was “Voted, That, should the
Hon. Congress, for the safety of the colonies, declare
them independent of the Kingdom of Great Britain, the
inhabitants of this town solemnly engage with our
lives and fortunes to support them in the measure ;
and our representative is hereby instructed to act
agreeably with this vote.” Nathaniel Stone Esq., who
had, besides filling other important trusts, been town
treasurer 28 yrs., and town clerk 25 yrs., died this
year.
In 1777, it was voted that Messrs. Nath’l Downs and
James Paine be a com. to provide for the families of
commissioned officers and privates engaged in their
country’s service, from this town.
In 1778, the amount raised for town charges was
,£450. Dea. Edw. Hall, Joseph Nye Esq., and Mr.
James Paine were app. a com. of correspondence, in-
spection, and safety. The new form of government520
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
was unanimously adopted, the whole number of votes,
68, being in favor.
In 1779, the amount raised for town charges was
£2181. The town was this year presented for not
having a schoolmaster provided, according to law.
Approval of the State Convention held at Concord
was voted. This convention recommended a tariff of
prices.
In 1780, the com. of safety, etc., for this town, was
7 Dea. Joseph Snow, Capt. Benj. Berry, and Nath’l
Downs. Under the “ Act to prevent monopolies and
oppression,” prices, etc., were fixed. A com., May 16,
consisting of Solomon Freeman Esq., Joseph Nye Esq.,
Joseph Snow, Benj. Freeman, and Kimbal Clark, to
consider and report on the new form of govt., re-
ported, May 26, in favor of the same “ in all its parts,”
but the town did not accept it, and another com. was
app., consisting of Bev. Mr. Dunster, Nath’l Downs,
James Paine, Benj. Berry, and John Freeman. This
com. reported, June 6, and the Third Article of Decla-
ration of Rights was debated. The vote being taken,
it was found that 26 wrere for the article as it stood,
and 32 for amendment. The Second Article, on Exe-
cutive Power, elicited earnest debate, 32 voting for
amendment, and 26 for it as it stood. All beside was
unanimously accepted. At a meeting, June 19, it was
voted to procure 24 men for the Continental army,
agreeably to Resolve of Gen. Court; and money was
raised for the purpose. Other doings of the town
were, July 3, “ to encourage enlistments; July 17, to
raise money for the object; Aug. 3, to provide money
for recruits; Sept. 4, the same; and Oct. 12, to pro-
vide beef for the army,— accompanied, however, with
a memorial setting forth the utter impossibility of find-
ing on the Cape the amount required. The difficultyANNALS OF HARWICH.
521
of procuring beef was, neither here nor in any of the
Cape towns, either feigned or exaggerated ; and the
requisitions made upon these maritime towns for as
full supplies as were demanded from the richest agri-
cultural districts of the country, were so preposterous,
that it now excites surprise that the idea was ever
conceived. The town resolved that the soldiers de-
manded for five months’ service shall, if possible, be
raised immediately, without resort to draft, No rep-
resentative was chosen this year, and the reasons for
the omission were set forth in a respectful memorial,
— representing to the Court the impoverished condi-
tion of the inhabitants, the sacrifices which their
patriotism had endured, and their continued fealty to
the cause for which all true Americans were strug-
gling.
In 1781, the amt, raised for town charges was <£2328 ;
and, Jan. 1, another petition to Court presented “ the
distressing circumstances ” of the town, and prayed for
the remission of the exactions for beef. It was resolved,
Feb. 13, to raise the requisite number of ten men for
the Continental army, and measures were taken to
meet the demand.
In 1782, the town was under the necessity of peti-
tioning for an abatement of some part of its State tax.
The same course was imperative in 1783.
In 1784, an agreement was consummated with the proprietors
of the Herring-brook, and application was made to the Gen. Ct.
for a law to regulate the catching of alewives in sd. brook.
Business beginning to turn to the former and legit-
imate channels of active enterprise, little is to be found
in the records of interest beyond municipal elections
and renewing boundaries, — the last duty having, as
in all years past, been so frequently performed, that
VOL. II.	66522
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
the reasons for it are not obvious to our mind. Mr.
Beriaii Broadbrooks died this year.1
In 1788, Rev. Enoch Chase became the minister of
the Baptist Church in this town.2
In 1791, Jan. 18, Rev. Isaiah Dunster died, ge. 72;3
and, Oct. 19, Rev. John Simpkins was ordained as his
successor in the pastorate of the North Precinct.4
Liberty was granted by the town, this year, to the people liv-
ing near Muddy Cove to build a bridge across said cove, pro-
vided they keep it in repair at their own expense.
In 1792, Rev. Nathan Underwood was ordained pas-
tor of the South Precinct, Nov. 21.5
In 1796, the amount raised for schools was 0400. Mr. Reuben
Snow, town clerk, died this year. Dea. Edward Hall died in
Feb. 1797, m. 80.
In 1798, “ the Baptist Religious Society of Harwich,”
Job Chase and others, was inc. June 27. Mr. Edmund
Freeman died this year, Dec. 13.
In 1799, the amount raised for schools was 0850. In 1801, the
sum of 0400 was appropriated for the same object.
In 1802, a proposition to divide the town met at
first with little favor. The first vote taken showed 100
against it, and the friends of the measure, being prob-
ably discouraged by the large numbers in opposition,
cast only 2 votes. The following year the project was
destined to meet with success. Mr. Ebenezer Broad-
brooks died this year, Ap. 20, as. 85; also Doct. Wil-
liam Fessenden, Nov. 5.
1	See Yol. I. 666. The family name is now written Brooks.
2	Rev. Mr. Chase labored seven years, and then died, and was succeeded,
it is said, by Mr. Lewis, who, in 1810, removed to Swansey.
3	Rev. Mr. Dunster had, by w. Hannah, Martha Oct. 7, 1763; Hannah
Feb. 26, 1768; Judith Miller Dec. 6, 1769 ; Mary May 17, 1773-4 ; Cath-
arine Mar. 1, 1 774-5 ; and Abigail July 29, 1776.
4	See Vol. I. 646 ; also, Annals of Brewster.
5	Rev. Mr. Underwood, b. in Lexington 1753, grad. H. C. 1788. See
Yol. I. 643.ANNALS OF HARWICH.
523
In 1803, the division of the town occurred, by which
that portion hitherto known as the North Precinct be-
came, Feb. 19, the town of Brewster. It will be noted
that the part set off was the seat of the original
church, and thus acquired ecclesiastical precedence.
Our record has, from this date, to do only with the
South Precinct, now alone retaining the ancient name
of the town, already, however, for several years, de-
prived of its former unity in ecclesiastical matters, by
the introduction of religious views and sects not in
consonance with the early state of religion.
The act of the legislature by which the town of
Harwich was divided and the town of Brewster incor-
porated, we have already suggested, Yol. I. 584, was
anomalous. Its very singular provisions were the
cause of much difficulty, and its influence is apparent
in the embarrassments to municipal action that three-
score years have not entirely obliterated or obviated.1
The following proceedings, consequent upon the
division effected, appear in the town records: —
“Agreeably to an Act of General Court, Feb. 19, 1803, to
divide the town of Harwich, and inc. the North Parish thereof
into a separate town by the name of Brewster; agreeably to the
2d section of sd. act, the Remonstkaxts to the act living in the
North Parish, together with such widows as live therein, and
who shall request it, have liberty to remain, with their families
and estates to the town of Harwich, by leaving their names in
the office of the Secretary of this commonwealth at any time
1 The division of the town was proposed at a period of general political
excitement in the commonwealth and other parts of the country, and was
probably suggested by views of general political expediency rather than by
any settled conviction that the municipal interests of the town required a
change. The increase of inhabitants since that period, and the large ex-
tent of territory embraced in the original township, have rendered the
measure a present convenience. It was certainly one that must, at some
time, have forced itself upon the attention of the people. But, waiving all
remark in reference to the necessity of the division at the date of its occur-
rence, we may pertinently suggest that the peculiarities of the enactment
remain an instructive comment on partisan legislation.524
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
within two years from the date of said act of incorporation, certi-
fying that such is their intention : Agreeably to sd. Act of Inc.,
We, the undersigners, being inhabitants of sd. late North Parish,
now within the limits of Brewster, and being of the number of
those who remonstrated1 against sd. division ofsd. town of Har-
wich, did sign a certificate signifying our choice to remain to tl
town of Harwich; and it was left in sd. Secretary’s office on th
26th day of the same February. And now the sd. secretary
informs us that sd. certificate is mislaid, lost, or taken from his
office : We, the undersigners, do, therefore, again subscribe our
names, and do hereby certify that it is our intention, agreeably to
sd. act, together with our families and estates, to remain to the
town of Harwich. Dated, Harwich, Feb. 27,1804. A true copy.
Attest, John D. Bangs, clerk of the town of Harwich.
Barn’bs Griffith,2
Wid. Han. Snow,
Lazarus Phinney,
Nath’l Snow,
Judah Berry,
Stephen Griffith,
Seymour Bangs,
Edmund Long,
Edward Snow Jr.,
Scotto Freeman,
Daniel Rogers,
Isaac Myrick,
Sam’l Berry,
Zoheth Hopkins,
Joseph Gould,
John Gould,
William Long Jr.,
Sylvanus Clark,3
Benjamin Small,
Thomas Small,
Uriah Nickerson,
Wid. Thnkf. Higgins,
Enos Rogers,
Zebedee Small,
William Long,
Thomas Linnell,
Jesse Kinney,
1	The remonstrance itself is said to be lost. It may have found its place in
the State archives since those troublous times, but it is not known by
inhabitants of Harwich to have existence.
2	Mr. Stephen Griffith, of H., m. Rebecca Ryder, of Y., Ap. 6,
1699, and had Joseph Mar. 15, 1699-1700; Stephen Mar. 15, 1701-2;
Rebecca 1703, who m. Gershom Phinney July 29, 1725 ; Lazarus June 7,
1708; Bars. Nov. 21, 1710; Thankful 1714; and Abraham July 31, 1716.
Joseph, b. 1700, m. Hope Hallet, of Y., July 24, 1729, and had Jno. Feb.
12, 1730-1; Thankful 1733 ; Jos ph Ap. 29, 1735 ; and Hannah 1737.
Stephen, b. 1702, had, by w. Phebe, Joshua Nov. 21, 1736. Lazarus,
b. 1708, m. Lydia Doanc, of E., 1731, and had Mary 1733; Wm. June 14,
1735; Lazarus Nov. 5, 1736 ; and Rebecca 1741.
3	Mr. Thomas Clark came over in the Anne 1623, a carpenter, and
was rep. 1651-5. He m. 1st, Susannah Ring; 2d, Wid. Alice Nichols
dr. Riclid. Hallet, and lived in H. as early as 1670; 3d, Eliz. Crow, wid.
of Jno., and d. Mar. 24, 1697, sq. 98. He had Andrew; James, of Ply.,
who m. Abigail Lothrop Oct. 7, 1657 ; Susanna, who m. Barna. Lothrop,
Esq., 1658 ; Wm., of Dux., who m. Martha Nash, and went to Bridg.;
John ; and Nath’l, of Ply-, who was Secretary of the Colony under Andros,
and d. 1717, ae. 72. There was a Richard Clark in Ply. 1620, who d.
next Spring; also a William in Y., who d. Dec. 7, 1668, prob. single,
and gave his prop, to Joseph and Benj.; and an Edmund in S. 1643.
John, of Be., m. Mary Benjamin Aug. 16, 1695, and had John Nov. 16,
169 7. “Mr. John, schoolmaster, d. at Y. Aug. 16, 1705.” Andrew, s.ANNALS OF HARWICH.
525
Benjamin Bangs,
John D. Bangs,
Scotto Berry,
Thomas Snow Jr.,
Elkanah Hopkins,
Corn’l’s Bradford,
Wid. Jed. Snow,
Benj. Walker,
Wid. Lydia Snow,
Seth Freeman,
Ebenezer Bangs Jr.,
James Small,
William Cahoon,
Ebenezer Nickerson,
Edward Nickerson,
John Dillingham,
Thomas Snow,
John Dillingham Jr.,
Isaac Dillingham,
John Cahoon,
Joshua Hopkins,
Elnathan Eldridge,
Samuel Eldridge 3d,
Thomas Bangs,
Joshua Gray,1
Ebenezer Bangs,
Reuben Rogers,
Gideon Clark,
Wid. Desire Bangs.
“ A true copy of the original,2 lodged in the Sec. of
State’s office, May 5, 1804. Att., John D. Bangs, clerk
of said town of Harwich. Att., John Avery, Secre-
tary.”
of Thos., of Ply. and H., had, by Mehit., his w., Thos. July 10, 1672;
Susanna Mar. 12, 1674 ; Mehit. Bee. 8, 1676, after which he removed from
Boston to II; Andrew ; Scotto ; and Nath’l. There was a Thomas in Y.,
who m. Rebecca Miller, dr. 2d Jno., Feb. 15, 1682, and had Susanna Feb.
21, 1684, and Thomas Dec. 25, 1685. Andrew, of II., m. Eliz. Winslow
Aug. 9, 1711, and had Mehit. Oct. 29, 1712; Eliz. 1714, d. inf.; Eliz.
1716; Thankful 1721; Eunice 1724; and Hannah 1726. See “school
removes,” 1 725.
1	Mr. John Gray was in Y. 1643, and d. 1674. By Hannah, his w., he
had Benj. Dec. 7, 1648; Wm. Oct. 5, 1650; Mary, whom. Benj. Ryder
1670; Edward; John; and Gideon. John, of II., s. of John ofY., m.
Susanna Clark, dr. of Andrew, and d. Mar. 31, 1732. He had a large
family: perhaps Lot; Susanna, who m. Nath’l Sears 1712; Hannah;
Thomas; Edward; certainly, by Susannah, Samuel, 1731; Lvdia 1702;
Sarah 1704, who prob. m. Watson Freeman 1724; Mehit. 1706, who m.
John Dillingham Jr.; Andrew Sept. 29, 1707; Anne 1709, d. y.; Elisha
Nov. 29, 1711; Joshua Oct. 19, 1713, who d. 1735; and Anna Nov. 30,
1714, who m. Thaeher Freeman 1732. We aim at accuracy, but would
be understood to admit the difficulty we find in attaining to certainty in all
cases. The genealogical data of the highly respectable family of Grays is,
to our mind, somewhat complicated. An Edward Gray was in Ply.
1643, a youth, became a merchant, rep. in 1676-8, and d. 1681. He m.
Marv Winslow, dr. Jno., Jan. 16, 1650, who d. 1663, and 2d Doroty Lettis,
dr. Thos., Dec. 12, 1665, and had Desire Feb. 24, 1651, who m. Lt. Nath’l
Southworth ; Mary Sept. 18, 1653; Eliz. Feb. 11, 1658; Sarah Aug. 12,
1659; and, Mr. Savage says, John Oct. 1, 1661; but, in our notes it is
Samuel, prob. a mistake. He had also, by 2d m., Edward Jan. 31, 1666 ;
and Susanna Oct. 15, 1668. Edward, of Y., genealogists say “prob. s.
of 1st John,” m. Melatiaji Lewis, dr. Geo. of Be., July 16, 1684, and had
Priscilla Oct. 8, 1686; Gideon Sept. 6, 1688; John July 26, 1691 ; Mela-
tiah June 6, 1694; and Mercy Ap. 13, 1696. See gen. continued in
Annals of Brewster.
2	It may here be stated that some of the remonstrants who still adhered to
the town of Harwich resided in parts of the new town remotest from
Harwich.526
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
The following additional was subsequent to the lost
certificate, which the preceding was intended to sup-
Pty-
“ Agreeably to an Act of the General Court to divide, etc.,
.	. and to the 2d Section .	. that the remonstrants to the
Act of Inc. who live in the North Parish, together with such
widows living therein, and who shall request it, shall have liberty
to remain, with their families and estates, to the town of Har-
wich, by leaving their names in the Secretary’s Office at any time
within two years from the date of sd. Act of Inc., certifying that
such is their intention ; This is to certify that it is our intention
to continue and remain, with our families and estates, to the
town of Harwich, whose names are subscribed to this certificate.
Harwich, Feb. 28, 1804.
Wid. Eliz. Seymour, Nathan Hopkins Jr., Wid. Hannah Snow,
Wid. Sarah Crowell, William Snell Jr., Benjamin Clark.
Joshua Bangs,	Seth Snow,
“ A true copy, Attest., John D. Bangs, clerk of sd.
town of Harwich.”
In the month of Dec., 1803, the town chose John
Dillingham and Eben. Broadbrooks a com. to meet a
com. app. by the General Court to view the places con-
templated for erecting an academy in the county of
Barnstable ;1 and, at the same meeting, it was “ voted
that the Academy should not be built in Brewster.” 2
In 1804, the amount raised for town charges was $900; “for
ministerial purposes, $550.” Dea. Ammiel Weekes died this
year, se. 84.3
^kis academy and its inc. and endowment, mentioned Yol. I. 585,
also p. 138 of the present vol., was designed to be a county institution. It
is again mentioned, page 140-2, with intimation of its perversion from its
original intent, through sectarian influences. It has been matter of sur-
prise that, notwithstanding it has long since become defunct as a literary
institution of high order, and its large endowment dissipated none tell us
whither, that no inquiry is successfully attempted.
2	In this vote, we see an inkling of the animosities engendered by the
division of the town.
3	Dea. Weekes is said to have been “ a man of great moral worth, and
was in former years one of those denominated New-Lights.” In later life,
he was of the Baptist order. It has been claimed for him that he was
inventor of works for manufacturing salt by solar heat, and that he wasANNALS OF HARWICH.
527
In 1806, for Mr. Underwood’s salary, $400 was raised, and $800
for town charges. It was voted to apply to the Sup. Jud. Court
for a partition of the town’s lands and ministerial property; and,
for this purpose, Capt. Eben. Weekes and Mr. Benj. Bangs were
app. agents. It was also voted to sustain Mr. Underwood’s
defence against the suit of Mr. Simpkins for the improvement of
part of the ministerial property. Messrs. John Dillingham, Eben.
Brooks, and John D. Bangs were app., Aug. 14, on the part of
this town to meet Messrs. Jona. Snow, Isaac Clark, and Abraham
Winslow app. by the town of Brewster, to adjust the unsettled
business of the town before the division, arrange for the support
of the poor, etc.
In 1807, $1000 was raised for town charges, and $400 for min-
ister’s salary. To settle finally all remaining difficulties growing
out of the late division, Eben Brooks Esq., John Dillingham Esq.,
and Capt. Isaiah Chase were app. a com. to confer with a like
com. app. by the town of Brewster.
In 1808, commissioners being app. by the Sup. Jud.
Court to divide the town and ministerial lands, Messrs.
John Dillingham, Eben. Weekes, and John D. Bangs
were app. by the town to meet sd. commissioners, and
assist them, by showing them the lands, etc.
In the complication of difficulties resulting from the division,
the town found cause, in 1810, to employ counsel, “to defend
to final judgment,” an action brought by Rev. Mr. Underwood
for his salary from Nov. 22, 1803 to Aug. 1, 1810.
In 1811, Mr. Underwood relinquished his salary and all de-
mands, on payment of arrears. Rev. J. Barnaby was called to
the pastorate of the Baptist Church in W. Harwich, this year,
and ordained Aug. 7.1
In 1813, Mr. Scotto Freeman died, July 20 ; and Mr. Ebe-
nezer Weekes died in 1815, ae. 60.2 In 1816, the bounds be-
deprived of the honor of the invention by another stepping in. These
rival claims it is not our prerogative to judge.
^ev. Mr. Barnaby’s connection with this church has, since his first set-
tlement, involved four periods, 1813 to 1819, 1837 to 1844, 1849 to 1855,
and 1862 to the present. The intervals were variously filled, Rev. Mr.
Curtis next succeeding him, 1822 to 1824.
2 Mr. Weekes’ death was by casualty, — a fall from a hay-loft. He
was four times married, and had 12 children, one of whom was the present
Cyrus Weekes Esq. A daughter married Obed Brooks Esq., in 1806. He528
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
tween this town and Dennis were settled. In 1826, Rev. Mr.
Coombs became minister of the Baptist Church.
Our notice of future doings and events, must neces-
sarily be brief; for there is found upon the records
very little of public interest to engage attention.
In 1828, April 8, Rev. Nathan Underwood, who had
long been connected with the Congregational Church
known as the 2d, and the South Precinct, resigned
his pastorate. During the earlier period of his min-
istry, his parochial charge were harmonious and pros-
perous ; the multiplication of sects had, for the last
twenty years, rendered his situation less happy. Af-
ter the retirement of Mr. Underwood from active du-
ties of the ministry, the pulpit left vacant by him had
various supplies ;1 but the frequent changes ecclesias-
tical have long since become indicative of the wane
of the ancient order of things, and the toivn's doings
are no longer associated with the ministers of religion.
It is no part of our plan or design to present the ec-
clesiastical history of later times; nor, indeed, of ear-
lier, — except as intimately blended with, and by law
an inseparable part of, the civil history which we
aim to rescue from oblivion and elucidate. If we
have mentioned, or shall mention, such instances of
the multiplication of religious sects as have fallen under
was representative five years, and town clerk and treasurer four years.
Being 17 years old at the time of the Lexington Battle, his father, when
the news of that engagement reached Harwich, said to him, “ Eben, you
are the only one that can be spared; take the gun and go : fight for reli-
gion and liberty.” He obeyed, and others joined him. They were in the
battle of Breed’s Hill. He afterwards enlisted for three years, and was in
the hard-fought battle on Long Island. u His death was much lamented.”
1 Rev. Mr. Sanford of Dennis supplied the pulpit several years every
fourth Sunday; Rev. N. Cobb, 1725-6 ; Rev. Wm. M. Cornell, 1727-8;
Rev I. W. Wheelright, 1828-9; Rev. L. Field, 1829-30; Rev. C. Kim-
ball, 1832-4; Rev. AV. AVithington, 1835; Rev. C. C. Adams, 1835-8; Rev.
J. H. Avery, 1838-9 ; Rev. W. II. Adams, 1841; and Rev. M. Wilder,
1851 ; these are sufficient indications of the inexpediency of our pages be-
ing devoted to a full recc? d of ministerial changes, occurring even among
those who, in early times were u the standing order.”ANNALS OF HARWICH.
529
our casual observation, it has been and will be, simply
with the view of elucidating progress, and never with
the intention of assuming the position of historiogra-
pher of all or any of the numerous, and still multiply-
ing, religious denominations of the last half-century.
Ebenezer Brooks Esq. died Feb. 4, m. 78.1
Rev. William Bowen became the minister of the
Baptist Church in 1829; and Rev. Davis Lathrop in
1831.2
In 1882, the Barnstable Baptist Association was organized, em-
bracing all the churches of the order on the Cape, Nantucket,
and Martha’s Vineyard; of which, in its rise, the Baptist Church
at West Harwich has, as we have before intimated, the prece-
dence.
In 1884, Mr. JosePH Underwood died, ae. 85.
In 1841, May, the Rev. Nathan Underwood died,
88.3
Ebenezer Brooks Esq. filled a large space in society. He was in
the legislature 4 yrs.; selectman 20 yrs.; just, pac., 1784 to 1828; post-
master 1803 to 1821, and a large landholder.
2	Rev. Mr. Lathrop removed in 1834 to another charge, but again be-
came the minister here in 1844, and of late years has officiated at the
Bethel, or Union meeting-house. Mr. Matthews and Mr. Huntley fol-
lowed in the ministry of the Baptist Church; then Mr. Warren and Mr.
Ashley.
3	Rev. Mr. Underwood is particularly noticed, Vol. I. 642-4 ; and we
have said that his position as a clergyman was highly respectable. When,
in the latter part of life, chosen to represent the town in the Gen. Court,
he was much respected as an intelligent and energetic legislator; but, being
somewhat deaf, he experienced at times the inconvenience of the infirmity.
Especially, on one occasion, when an exciting debate had arisen, and the
question was being put,— a question in which he felt unusual interest be-
cause involving cherished principles,—the vote was demanded by the presid-
ing officer in a reversed order quite unexpected by Mr. Underwood. He,
entirely misapprehending the call, voted, to the surprise of every one, the
affirmative,—his naturally strong voice enunciating Aye with unusual
energy, when every listener knew that his intention would thereby be frus-
trated. Hon. Russell Freeman of Sandwich, then a member and coadjutor
in politics with Mr. Underwood, although himself nearly as deaf, perceived
in an instant that the Rev. gentleman had mistaken the call of the speaker,
by not hearing the words in which the question was put; and, in the excite-
ment of the moment sprang to the ear of his venerable friend, and, in what
was meant to be undertone, thundered ‘ No* Mr. Freeman was not only
promptly called to order, but the opposite party affected to regard his action
as a high offence, especially as Mr. Underwood desired to correct his
vote. The explanation and apology of Mr. F., it need not be doubted, were
VOL. II.	67530
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1855, Ap. 3, was organized the Congregational
Church and Society at Harwich Port, known as “ the
Pilgrim Church and Society,” and Rev. Mr. McCollum
was settled as pastor. The Baptist Society, in the
west part of the town, settled Rev. Mr. Warren.
Obed Brooks Esq. died Aug. 4, 1856, se. 75.1
Rev. Joseph R. Munsell became minister of the Con-
gregational Church at Harwich Centre in 1857; and
Rev. Frederick Hebard, of the Pilgrim Church, in 1858.
Mr. Ebenezer Brooks died Sept. 26, 1863, se. 70; and
Capt. Amasa Nickerson, Sept. 29, ae. 84.
In respect to this town, there is nothing remarkable
to record of the years that succeeded. Its popula-
tion is large, giving it the rank of the fourth town
in the county. In patriotic devotion to the interests
of the country. it has always stood high; nor have we
at the time of this present writing, 1863, any reason
to apprehend that this town is derelict. If, in the
severe struggle in which the nation is engaged, there
be malcontents here, we know it not. The accustomed
satisfactory to all candid minds, and even the indignation of the most zeal-
ous opposing politicians was effectively quelled. He remarked that he
could not be supposed by any intelligent member to have intended to use
the language of dictation; for, if he were capable of such an unparliamen-
tary act, it would be preposterous to presume on such liberty with so enlight-
ened and determined a mind as that of the venerable member from Har-
wich. He referred to his intimacy with and high respect for Mr. U., and
the conviction he felt the gentleman was, in consequence of an infirmity,
suffered by himself also, about to be involuntarily committed to an act the
very opposite of what he intended; and that every principle of honesty,
friendship, and sympathy alike indicated the duty of advising him of his
mistake; then closing with the words of the Sidonian Dido to the Trojan
Anchises’ son, (the adjective being changed to suit the circumstances,)
“Non ignarus mali, miseris succurrere disco.’*
Mr. Underwood was allowed to correct his vote; and the house were in
better humor in consequence of the episode.
1 Obed Brooks Esq. was postmaster many yrs.; town clerk and treas-
urer 26 yrs. and filled various offices; but was not, as was inadvertently
stated Yol. I. 666, selectman. He was justice of the peace many yrs., and
county commissioner.ANNALS OF HARWICH.
531
avocations of the people upon the seas may be imper-
illed, and the conviction that
“ great tumults are not laid
With half the easiness that they are raised,”
may find strength in the development of the present
moment; but the call for men of stout hearts and
active enterprise, whether upon the land or sea, has
not been unheeded. A stranger from another land,
visiting this and other Cape towns, could hardly cred-
it the magnitude of the work which government has
undertaken in defence of the integrity of the Union.
Prosperity seems not impeded; thrift is everywhere
apparent; and business moves on as if
“ th’ viperous worm
That gnaws the bowels of the commonwealth ”
were non est. Far different, we apprehend, is the state
of things where the fires of revolt were kindled:—
“ What anxious moments pass between
The birth of plots and their last periods!
Oh! *tis a dreadful interval of time,
Made up of horror all, and big with death.”
We turn to the usual concluding statistics with one
other remark only : the intimate connection existing
for a century of years between the two original pre-
cincts of the ancient Harwich leaves much of the gen-
ealogical data to appear, more conveniently, in the
Annals of Brewster.532
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
REPRESENTATIVES.
Yrs.
1711.	John Mayo,	6.
1712.	Gershom Hall, 3.
1713.	Thomas Clark, 10.
1717. Chilingsw. Foster, 8.
1719.	Wm. My rick,	1.
1720.	Kenelm Winslow, 1.
1721.	John Gray,	1.
1722.	Isaac Mayo,	1.
1725. Edm. Freeman,	14.
1741. Jos. Freeman, 5.
1749. Edw. Bangs,	2.
1755. Nath. Stone,	6.
1701. Chil. Foster Jr., 10.
Yrs.
1770. Benj. Freeman,	4.
1775. Joseph Nye,	5.
1777. Sol. Freeman,	4.
1783. Kimbtl Clark,	9.
1793.	Joseph Snow,	1.
1794.	Jno. Dillingham,	9.
1802. Bonj. Banes,	4.
“ Eben. Brooks,	4.
1808.	Eben. Weeks,	5,
1812.	Eli Small,	1.
1813.	Isaiah Chase,	5.
“ Nathan Nickerson,	1.
1823. Nathan Underwood, 2.
x n«
1827. James Long, 13.
“ Greenleaf J. Pratt, 1.
1832.	Sidney Underwood, 1.
1833.	Job Chase,	3.
1834.	Sam’l Eldridge, 4.
1838.	Kich. Baker,	2.
1839.	Cyrus Weeks,	7.
1841. Loring Moody, 2.
1849.	Obed Nickerson, 1.
1850.	Nath’l. Doane, 4.
1853. Anthony K. Chase, 2.
1855. Elk’ll. Nickerson, 2.
Yrs.
1701. Wm. Mvrick,	9.
“ Joseph Paine, 11.
“ Thos. Freeman, 5.
1707. Thomas Clark, 4.
1710. Gershom Hall, 3.
“ Chi.ingsw. Foster, 6.
1713. Kenelm Winslow, 3.
“ Edw’d. Snow, 2.
“ Nath’l. My rick, 20.
1716. Jno. Freeman, 3.
1718. Prince Snow,	13.
“ Thos. Lincoln, 8.
1725. Jos. Freeman, 14.
1727. Edm. Freeman, 7.
1732.	Nath’l. Hopkins, 1.
1733.	Chil. Foster,	3.
“ Joseph Mavo, 11.
“ Kenelm Winslow, 3.
1739. Jabez Snow,	28.
1742. Wm. Freeman, 3.
“ John Snow,	9.
1744. Thos. Winslow, 1.
1747.	Judah Sears,	1.
“ Nat’l. Doane,	1.
1748.	Edward Hall, 24.
1749.	Elisha Doane,	8.
1752. Barn’s. Freeman, 6.
SELECTMEN.
x r».
1754. Thos. Kendrick,	1.
1759. Edm. Freeman,	8.
1762. Heman Stone,	3.
1766. Chil. Foster,	2.
1770. James Paine,	16.
“ Benj. Freeman,	2.
1773. Jos. pli Nye,	8.
1779.	Joseph Snow,	8.
“ Sol. Freeman,	1.
1780.	Benj. Berry,	4.
“ Nath’l. Doane,	2.
1782.	Ammiel Weeks.	1.
1783.	Jno. Dillingham,	22.
1785. Eben. B. Brooks,	20.
1795.	Jona. Snow,	8.
1789. Eben. Snow,	4.
1792.	Reuben Snow,	2.
1801.	John Gould,	1.
1802.	Scotto Berry,	3.
1864. Isaiah Chase,	5.
“ Wm. Eldridge,	7.
1809.	John D. Bangs,	4.
1811. Job Chase,	4.
1813.	Nathan Nickerson,	2.
“ Stephen Burgess,	2.
1814.	Eben. Kelley,	1.
1815.	Daniel Hall,	1.
1815.	James Long,	18.
1816.	Sam’l. Kelley,	1.
“ Nath’l. Doane,	12.
1817.	Elijah Chase,	16.
1818.	Reuben Cahoon,	4.
1825. Nath. Underwood,	23.
1830.	Anthony Kelley,	3.
1831.	Sam’l. Eldridge,	4.
1832.	Isaiah Baker,	1.
1835.	Amasa Nickerson,	3.
1836.	Elk’h. Nickerson,	1.
1837.	Isaac Kelley,	8.
1839. Nath’l. Chase,	2.
1841. Isaiah Doane,	5.
1843. Freeman Snow,	2.
1S44. Jacob Crowell,	3.
1845. Natli’l. Chase 2d,	2.
“ Cyrus Weeks,	9.
1848. Darius Weeks,	1.
1^50. Danlorth S. Steele,	9.
1^52. James Chase,	2.
1853. Jno. Kenney,	2.
“ Benj. F. Bee,	1.
1857.	Shul). B. Kelley,	3.
1858.	Isaiah C. Kelley,	5.
1860. Thos. Kendrick,	4.
1803. Sheldon Crowell,	1.
TOWN TREASURERS.
Yrs.
1701. Thos. Freeman,	5.
1705. John Gray,	1.
1707. Kenelm Winslow,	5.
1709. John Mayo,	3.
1713. Wm. Myrick,	1.
1716. Chil. Foster,	25.
1741. Nath’l. Stone,	35.
Yrs.
1776. James Paine,	9.
1785. Joseph Snow,	7.
1789. Benj. Bangs.	1.
1793.	Reuben Snow,	2.
1794.	Dean Bangs,	1.
1796.	Anthony Gray,	5.
1801. John D. Bangs,	8.
xrs.
1809.	Obed Brooks, 26.
1810.	Eben’r. Weeks, 4.
1839. John Allen,	7.
1846. Eph’m. Doane, 8.
1848. Benj. W. Eldridge, 4.
1S52. Obed Brooks Jr., 1.
1859.	W. H. Underwood, 5.
TOWN CLERKS.
Yrs.
1701. Thos. Freeman,	6.
1707. Joseph Paine,	6.
1713. Chil. Foster,	28.
1741. Nath’l. Stone,	35.
1776. James Paine,	9.
1785, Joseph Snow,	7.
1789. Benj. Bangs,	Yrs. 1.
1793. Reuben Snow,	2.
1794. Dean Bangs,	1.
1796. Anthony Gray,	5.
1801. Jno. D. Bangs,	8.
1809. Obed Brooks,	26.
in.
1810. Eben’r. Weeks,	4.
1839. John Allen,	7.
1846. Eph’m. Doane,	8.
1848. B. W. Eldridge,	4.
1852. Obed Brooks Jr.,	1.
1859. W. H. Underwood,	5.	THE
ANNALS	OF THE TOWN
	OF
TRURO.
'I WILL TURN MY ATTENTION' TO THE ANCIENT AND MEMOBABLE INSTITUTIONS? FOB IT IS
NECESSABY THAT THE ELEMENTS OF OUB PBOSPEBITY BE KNOWN, THAT A BEOABD TO THEM
may improve the pbesent times.”—Valerius Maximus.Jfnsmpfion.
TO HON. HENRY CROCKER,
One of the Vioe-(Presidents of the Cape Cod Association
of boston,
THESE ANNALS ARE RESPECTFULLY
INSCRIBED,
Not because of any particular interest he can be supposed to have in this before
other towns, but because, especially and above all other considerations, we desire
the opportunity of expressing our sincere regard for that high sense of honor, ster-
ling integrity, large intelligence, true patriotism, and the many virtues, that entitle
him to the esteem of
THE AUTHOR.
(634)ANNALS OF TRURO
It appears from Truro records, that some purchases
of lands from the Indians were made as early as 1696,
perhaps before,1 and that the settlement of the plan-
tation, the Indian name of which was Pamet,2 com-
menced about 1700. It was allowed municipal privi-
leges, Oct. 29, 1705, and was then called Dangerfield;
and, July 16, 1709, was incorporated by its present
name.
Situation and Boundaries.— Truro is situated E. S. E. of
Boston, between 41 ° 57 ' and 42 ° 4 ' N. lat., and between 70 °
4' and 70° 13 7 W. long, from Greenwich. Its distance in an
air line from Boston is 57 m.; by the road, 102 m. From the
court house in Barnstable it is 37 m. Both its eastern and
western shores being curved and approaching each other toward
the northwest, the form of the township is nearly a spherical
triangle. The length of the township, as the road runs, is about
14 m.; in a direct line, 11 ni. The breadth, in the widest part,
is 3 m.; and in the narrowest, not more than b m. It is bounded
NT. W. by Provincetown; S. by Wellfleet; the Atlantic washes
it on the E. and N. E.; and Barnstable Bay and Provincetown
Harbor on the west.
Natural Divisions, etc. — In the extreme north and north-
west part of the township is East Harbor, small, shoal, and of
little use. Near this harbor is a village known for many years
by the same name. Near East Harbor village, and east of the
harbor, is a body of salt marsh, which, from the action of the
surrounding sands, has greatly diminished its proportions and
1 See Yol. I. 335, 337. 2 Sometimes Paomet, and in Act of Ine. Pawmet,
(535)536
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
value. North of the harbor, the beach may be said to extend
quite across the township, and the light sands are ever on the
move.1
About a mile S. of this, and 3 m. N. of Pamet, is a pond near
which is another settlement designated Pond Village. The
high and steep banks lying along the bay side are here inter-
sected by a valley that, making from the shore, soon divides ini
two branches * and in this valley stands the village, the entrance
from the sea affording a convenient landing,2 and the surround-
ing hills defending from winds.
South of the last-named village, one mile, the bank is broken
by another valley, called Great Hollow. Here also, and in a
contiguous depression, are dwellings that constitute another vil-
lage, between which and “the Pond”3 a high hill intervenes,
commanding an extensive view of the Atlantic, Provincetown
and its harbor, and of the shores opposite as far as Plymouth
and the high lands of Marshfield. Upon this bleak elevation was
built, in 1721, “the meeting-house of Truro.” The edifice was
seen, of course, from a great distance at sea, and long served as
a landmark for mariners. At the extreme of the mouth of the
valley, an opening is made by the waters of the bay, which ap-
proach within a few rods of the ocean on the opposite side.
This opening, or creek, is a tide harbor, and was the “ Pamet
jRiver ” visited by the pioneers from the Mayflower, on their
“ first excursion,” in 1620.4 This harbor, called Pamet Harbor,
may yet be made one of greater public utility. It is, at present,
only adapted to the absolute exigencies of the place, a resort for
small craft and for fishermen. As it extends inland it divides
into three branches, on which are bodies of salt marsh, called
Great, Hopkins, and Eagle Neck meadows, which branches afford-
a water communication for boats, to the great convenience of
many. The village, situated at the extremity of the meadows,
lias been familiarly known as “ the Head of Pamet.”
1	These sands have, since the settlement of the town, made considerable
encroachments upon the bay; whilst the back shore has been constantly
losing, chiefly from the action of the ocean.
2	The circuitous bend of the land that forms the harbor of Provincetown,
generally known as Cape Cod Harbor, shelters this landing-place from the
winds, except when blowing directly toward the shore over 2i miles
extent of bay. There have been frequent attempts to construct a harbor
here, but these have not been prosecuted with desirable success.
3	There are 5 other small ponds in Truro, — one near the head of Pamet,
the others in the southern part of the township.
4	It will be recollected that not only Pamet River was explored by the
pilgrims, but most of the prominent localities in tiie neighborhood.ANNALS OF TRURO.
537
The part of the township south of Pamet, adjoining the bay,
has been long known by the name Hog’s Back. Here also are
scattered dwellings among the hills; and between this and
Wellfleet is another body of salt meadows, caused by the waters
that at spring-tides flow between Bound Brook Island and the
main.
Except bodies of salt meadows that have been mentioned, the
township is sandy, and free from rocks or stones. The land
generally cannot, without exaggeration, be said to furnish spon-
taneous verdure at any season;1 and yet, in this town, Indian
corn, rye, and vegetables are produced nearly sufficient for home
consumption.2 To the eye of the traveller, the whole of the
township seems to be made up of ridges of bleak and lofty downs,
running nearly at right angles with the shore. The tops of some
of these elevations spread into a plain. From these hills in the
north part of the town, nothing but hills can be discerned,3 if we
except a few windmills, here and there a wood, and, conspicuous,
the remains of the old Congregational meeting-house. The hill
on which stood this central attraction branches from the high-
lands of Cape Cod, well known to seamen, commencing at the
Clay Pounds,4 or clay banks, adjoining the ocean, about a mile
due east from “ the Pond ; ” and these “ High Lands ” extend
south as far as the “ Table Land of Eastham.”
1	Although this is strictly true, tradition says, and possibly some are yet
living who remember, that these hills were once clothed with wood.
2	It may be mentioned, as a remarkable fact, that 50 bu. of Indian corn
per acre was the average crop of some farms here in years gone by, and 15
or 20 bu. of wheat. The favorite manure for corn was the king or horse-
shoe crab, of which there are great numbers on this coast. To each hill of
three plants was allotted one crab, its shell broken. The sand thus nour-
ished yielded an adequate return for the labors of the husbandman, the
grain filling well, though the plant be low of stature, and limited as to the
size of its naturally broad and ornamental flag-like leaves.
3	Of these ancient moraines, as called geologically, Doct. Hitchcock says
those in Truro are among the most remarkable he has ever seen. “ They
are sometimes 200 or 300 ft. high, composed wholly of sand, often not
merely conical, but with sharp-pointed apex, and give a singular aspect to
the landscape.” They have been supposed to have been “formed by
glaciers,” or to be “ accumulations of detritus, produced by the grating of
icebergs along the bottom of the ocean.” We are not responsible for the
speculations of geologists : this learned class, we confess, often stagger our
credulity.
4	So called, it is said, from the incessant poundings of wrecks against
these high, solid, and perpendicular banks. This eastern shore has from
time immemorial been dangerous, and more vessels, it is said, have been
cast away here than in any other part of the country. Perhaps, of late
years, some portions of the Gulf should be excepted.
vol. n.	68538
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
The Clay Pounds are an object of interest. The high banks
are excavated in a semi-circular form, and, in the midst of this
perpendicular excavation, arises, from a broad base, a cone of
blue clay, 100 ft. high. Not far from this is another similar ex-
cavation, and another tower of clay, but not so regularly formed
as its mate. The land in this locality is, perhaps, superior to
any other in the township; and here is a small village.1 The
larger divisions at present recognized are : South Truro, Truro
(Centre), and North Truro.
There remains still, in the south part of the town, some wood-
land. The time was when much valuable ship-timber was cut
here. Good and soft water is easily obtained by digging wells.
The springs of these are but little elevated above the level of
the ocean.2 The climate is not unfavorable to health and
longevity.
1	A lighthouse was erected here in 1798. The Boston and Cape Cod
Marine Telegraph Co. have an office now established at the Pounds, a
desideratum of great importance, especially in obtaining early information
of the passing of vessels, and of wrecks that occur.
2	It is so difficult to furnish an adequate description of this remarkable
town, — a view that shall convey to the mind of the reader the veritable
idea, — that we incline to furnish, as an additional aid, the remarks of that
accurate observer, Kendal, as he wrote them in 1807 : “The country of
Truro is in great part hilly, with a soil of gravelly loam, supporting lofty
woods, and hollowed into verdant and well-watered vales, but with tracts
of sand near the inlets of the sea, either drifting in the winds, or supporting
a thin growth of beach-grass. Several rivulets and ponds present them-
selves; and the whole landscape has much in it that is romantic.” This, it
will be perceived, was on entering Truro from Wellfleet. He continues:
u In going to Provincetown, for a short space, the road lay over hills on
which were crops of maize. At the foot of these hills, I entered a tract of
salt marsh, inclosed at its head by a fence, and open at the opposite ex-
tremity to Provincetown Harbor. In all the lower part, the road lies
along its edge, and is more or less commodious as the tide is higher or
lower, the flood-tide driving the traveller into the loose sand and upon the
sand-hills ; while the ebb gives him the use of the lower part of the beach,
itself but soft, and thrown into transverse ridges, and interrupted by rills of
fresh water flowing from springs in the hills. The length of the salt-meadow
is about 9 m. lieturning from Provincetown, and crossing the salt-
meadows, the main road was reached near the lighthouse in Truro. The
intervening country was a light loam ; its surface open downs. A farmer
and miller was the keeper of the light, which stood a small distance from
the edge of an eminence on the lofty table-land that runs along the penin-
sula. This eminence is part of a remarkable vein of blue clay and marl,
not more than 200 yards broad, terminating abruptly on the beach, and
growing narrower as it recedes inland, where, at a distance of one-half mile,
it contracts itself to a point. On each side, all is sand. This vein, regarded
as the proper position for the light, has also the recommendation of solidity,
no less than the level surface of the eminence ; but it is said that the impen-
etrable nature of the soil occasions vapors that strike against it to remain
on its surface; and the springs on each side, arrested in their course, issueANNALS OF TRURO.
539
On the waters, sea-fowl are, in their season, abundant. Those
frequenting these shores of the bay are the brant, gannet, black-
duck, sea-duck, old-wife, shell-drake, dipper, penguin, coot,
widgeon, and gull. Of birds on the shores and marshes, the
curlew, plover, peep, and kindred species might be enumerated.
Whales, that formerly were so common on this coast, must
now, if sought, be looked for in distant waters.1 The other fish-
eries are prosecuted with success ;2 and the merchant service has
from the first been indebted to Truro for some of its most able
ship-masters. The youth of the place are often scarcely of age
when they rise to the command of a vessel.3
at its feet: hence a thick bank of fog frequently rests on it; and though
this bank is not as lofty as the lanthorn of the lighthouse, yet, according to
the law of optics, it becomes an intervening object at a short distance, per-
haps only 12 m. from the shore.”
Another traveller, Willis, 1850, says: “ Our driver had ‘driven stage’
for a year, over the route, and every day he had picked a new track, often
losing his way with the blinding of the flying sand in a high wind.”
We must quote yet another: Bartlett, 1853, says, in his Pilgrim Fathers,
pub. Lond. 1854 : “ We had now reached the narrowest part of the Cape,
here dwindled into a narrow ridge of sand. The coachman steered his horses
down upon the sandy shores of East Harbor, — the tide at that time being
out and admitting of his driving on the beach. During the blinding gales and
snow-storms of winter, it requires no small skill and intrepidity to pilot a
four-horse team, where road is none, over this intermixture of hill, sand,
swamp, and sea-weed. The waves sometimes break fairly over the narrow
ridge, threatening to make a clear breach through, carry coach and all out
to sea and suddenly convert the extremity of the Cape into an island. Af-
ter driving some distance along the wet shore, we were constrained to
strike up into the head of the Cape, which here widens out a little, and
consists simply of vast sand-hills, incessantly shifting their shape by the
action of the storms. There is here no sort of road, and the driver has to
work his team through the yielding substance as he is best able. The sand
is planted like the downs of Holland, with a species of grass which uniting
its roots tends to prevent the further dispersion of the shifting mass.”
*It is said that the inhabitants of Truro were the first to adventure to
the Falkland Islands in pursuit of whales. Voyages were undertaken by
Capts. David Smith and Gamaliel Collins, in 1774, at the suggestion of
Admiral Montague of the Br. navy, and were crowned with success. Sub-
sequently, the coasts of Brazil, and of Guinea, were visited by the enter-
prising mariners of Truro. They were said to be among the most dexter-
ous whalemen in the world.
2	It has been remarked that though the youth and strength of a place be
employed two-thirds of the year in obtaining, by hardy and audacious toil,
the wealth of the seas beyond the line, and even on the further side of Cape
Horn ; and, though early habits and the love of voyages occasionally prosper-
ous induce the employment, the business is often precarious. Great dangers
and hardships too, are often encountered; but they who survive them are
generally successful in acquiring good estates.
3	We must here be indulged in quoting from the English traveller of
1807, his relation of an incident that illustrates the enterprise of early
youth. He says : “ In passing from Truro to Provincetown ” by the bay540
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
The manufacture of salt, which once formed no inconsiderable
item in the business of the town,1 has declined greatly, as in all the
Cape towns.2 The reader will not expect us to enlarge upon the
agricultural interests of this sea-girt and comparatively sterile
township ; and yet here may be found notable instances of good
husbandry.
The population of Truro is about 2000; the number of families
about 440, and of dwellings about 360.3 The public buildings
route, “ I had in company an inhabitant of the latter place. As we ap-
proached the mouth of the inlet, the vertebras of a small species of whale,
here called the black-jish, became frequent on the beach, together with
other signs of the fisheries. Soon after, at the distance of half a mile, on
the sandy flat from which the sea was now fast retiring, we discovered a boy
and near him appeared to be a great fish. The solitariness of the boy and
his smallness compared with the fish, formed a combination sufficiently
remarkable to draw us to the spot; and we found our fisherman of about ten
years’ age, astride a porpoise about 10 ft. long, in the midst of a sea of
blood collected in the hollow of the sand. Alone, and with a common
table knife for his instrument, he was cutting the blubber from the ribs of
the monster, a task which he performed in a very workmanlike manner.
Upon inquiring, we learned that he alone had killed the fish. His employ-
ment in the morning had been that of attending his mother’s cows; and
from the hills on which he was, he had seen a shoal of porpoises enter the
inlet. As the tide was ebbing and the shore flat, many of them were soon
embarrassed by the want of sufficient water to move in; and he flattered
himself that by leaving the cows and coming down to the beach, he might
be able to make a prize ! So going into the water as far as he dared, he se-
lected one struggling to regain deep water. This fish he boldly caught, from
time to time, by the tail, thereby increasing its difficulties, till at last the
water running away left the porpoise upon the sand. He stayed by the
fish till he was sure that escape was impossible ; and then running home, a
distance of a mile, procured a knife. Thus armed, he proceeded to wound
and kill the fish — a task of some labor and danger ; and, according to his
account, he had accomplished it only by watching opportunities, — alter-
nately striking and retreating. My companion said it would yield 10 gal.
of oil, and give the little cowherd $10 for his exploit.”
1In 1837, there were in town 30 establishments for salt-making, yielding
17,490 bu. There were at the same time 63 vessels engaged in the cod
and mackerel fisheries, producing 16,950 quintals of codfish, and 15,750 lbs.
of mackerel, and together employing 512 hands.
2 Strangers visiting the towns where the salt manufacture has declined,
have noticed a peculiarity in the appearance of barns and other outbuild-
ings, — “a sort of fancy-stained, rust-spotted, regularly-patterned boarding,
which in admired disorder, finally, from its frequency, comes to haunt the
observer, and demand explanation.” The boards with which such build-
ings are covered, are the remains of demolished salt-works; the “ queer
spots ” that the traveller notices are the rust of nails, spread by the action
of the salt, — nails that were driven after a peculiar order in the construction
of the original works.
8 In 1760, the population was 924; in 1790, there were 1193 inhab.; in
1800, 165 dwellings, only three of which were more than one story in
height. According to the census of 1855, the town contained a population
of 1917, i. e., 973 males, and 944 females, — a singular providence, weANNALS OF TRURO.
541
are two Methodist meeting-houses, — a Congregationalism and
Union;1 also those indispensable requisites of a New England
town, — school-houses. Educational privileges are prized, and
the schools well supported.2 There are in town three gristmills,
one moved by tides, the others by winds. The healthiness
of the place compares well with other localities.3 The morality
of the community has ever been of high order, and continues to
merit this distinction, — with perhaps one only abatement:
since the old order of things has passed away, and here, as in
other Cape towns,
“ No longer by implicit faith we err,
Whilst every one’s his own interpreter,”
and instead of the one sanctuary for the whole people of a town-
ship, sects are multiplied, it may be questioned whether the attend-
ance on public religious worship has not, in all these towns,
greatly diminished.
Progress of the town, etc. — We have said that pur-
chases began some years prior to the settlement of
cannot but regard it, — as if the disproportion were intended to supply the
losses to which this people are subject by the perils of the seas. It has
been well remarked by Rev. Dr. Bellows, “ Every cloud might well bring
a shadow to the brow of wives and daughters ; every wind a sigh from
their hearts in these maritime towns. In Truro the lives of sixty citizens,
chiefly the heads of families, were lost in one storm, almost in the sight of
their own homes ; seven sons and one father out of one house ! At Dennis,
sixteen heads of families were taken from one school-district. This was, we
think, in 1843. There is hardly a family here that has not lost some mem-
ber at sea.” Of the population, at the time of which we speak, only 59 were
foreigners, and none colored. There were one deaf and dumb, one blind,
none insane, eight cases of idiocy, and seven paupers.
1	North Truro has the u Christian Union,” Truro (centre) the Congrega-
tionalist and a Methodist, and South Truro a Methodist. There is said to
be also a Second Advent place of worship in the town.
2	The number of schools was eleven, school-houses 7, — supplied by 7 fe-
male teachers, and in winter by an addition of four masters, as per census
of 1850. Strangers visiting these schools have been struck by the cheerful
and healthy aspect of the pupils, — ‘‘ no haggard faces, no ragged dresses;
all neat, faces beaming with intelligence, and the tout ensemble indicative
of happy homes.”
3	In 1794, out of a population of about 1200, the bills of mortality showed
that, during the seven preceding years, the deaths were 115 including those
lost at sea. Of these, 8 died between the ages of 30 and 40; 6 between
40 and 50; 5 between 50 and 60; 11 between 60 and 70; 12 between 70
and 80 ; and 7 between 80 and 90. During these seven years, the number
of baptisms was 278. These statistics, taken from the central period of the
existence of a settlement here, may, baptisms excepted, be considered as
the usual average of mortality.542
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
the place. The Indians continued to hold possession
here, long after the upper towns were settled by
English. The first intimation of any move in this
direction, is an order of “ propriety's of Pamet ” in
regard to the cutting of “ cord-ivood, or timber upon
any of the common or undivided lands;” and this
bears date June IT, 1690, and is subscribed by
Jonathan Bangs, Thomas Paine, Steven Snow, Caleb
Hopkins, Ephraim Doane, John Savage, and Israel Cole.1
The next, is the record of a meeting for the transac-
tion of business, held by “ the proprietors of Pamet,”
Feb. 4, 1700. It appears that a misunderstanding
existed between said proprietors and Thomas Smith
respecting “ a parcel of land and meadow which said
Smith had bought of Joshua, Anthony, and Jeremy, Indi-
ans, and for the deeds of which he had proffered the
proprietors money for their right of purchase.” Propo-
sitions being now made by said Smith, at the meeting,
it “ was agreed that said Smith, and the said Proprie-
tors shall bid for the said right, and that the party
which shall bid most shall have it.” Smith outbid
the proprietors, he bidding <£30. The next day the
instrument was drawn, and the proprietors met and
chose Lieut. Jona. Bangs and Isaac Cole agents to re-
ceive the money, and give conveyance of said pur-
chase-right to Thomas Smith, in their name and behalf.
The same year, June 4, “ at a meeting of the proprie-
tors of Pamet lands, it was agreed that the land at
Pamet that may be conveniently divided shall be;
and that we will go thither, God willing, on the last
Monday of October next ensuing, and divide accord-
ingly.” At the same meeting it was “ agreed that a
fence be made below Eastern Harbor Pond, sufficient
1 It is the first entry in the first book of records in possession of the town,
and was made June 18, 1701, upr Tho. Paine, clerk to said Proprietors.”
fANNALS OF TRUKO.
543
to stop the same and keep the tide out of said pond.”
Further, “ the said proprietors deeply sensible of the
inconvenience of many persons of their company buy-
ing lands of the Indians for inconsiderable pay valued
at great rates, to their great damage: to prevent the
same, appointed by a major vote, Thomas Paine Jr.
to be their agent to buy all such lands of the Indians,
as they shall be minded to sell, within said propriety,
from time to time, and at all times, as opportunity shall
present; money to be placed in his hands for the
purpose.”
The proprietors assembled again, Oct. 31, according
to agreement concluded June 4th, last, and “ chose
Israel Cole, Constant Freeman, and Thomas Paine a
committee to lav out six acres of meadow at Eastern
Harbor for the use of the ministry; and, also, to survey
and lay out all such uplands and meadows as they
shall judge convenient.
The next year, June 17, 1701, Constant Freeman and Ben-
jamin Smalle were appointed a committee “to look after all such
men as shall come from other parts to fetch sedge from the
meadows at Eastern Harbor, and to make them pay 6s. a sloop-
load, or an equivalent thereto, which money shall be improved
for the use of the ministry at Pamet;1 also, to look after such per-
sons as shall set up whale-houses, or other houses, upon any of
the common or undivided lands belonging to Pamet; or that
shall cut wood or timber upon the same; and to agree with them,
or any of them, for the term of their voyages, as they shall see
meet, for not less than Is. per man; or, otherwise, to warn them
to depart off said land.”
At a meeting of the proprietors, Feb. 16, 1702, it
was “voted that 17 acres of land be given to Mr.
Nathaniel Eelles for his Encouragement to settle at
Pamet to preach the gospel to the people there; and,
1 About 34 acres of upland were appropriated for the ministry “ at a
place called Tashmuit,” alias Clay Pounds.544
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
upon his settlement in order to continue there in
that work, to have it for his own: Or if said Eelles
should not come, then said land to be reserved for any
other able orthodox minister who shall be there
settled”1 “Also, voted for the ministry the privilege
of firewood from time to time, fencing, and herbage
upon all such lands as are voted by said proprietors: —
Also, that (certain lands) shall be a common forever
for all such as shall from time to time be admitted as
inhabitants” “To this, Israel Cole did not assent”
Thomas Paine, Israel Cole, and Constant Freeman
were constituted agents “ to sell lands for proprietors,
to such persons as are minded to remove to, and settle
at Pamet.”
The same day, Nath’l Atkins and Francis Small “ were,
by a major vote of the proprietors, admitted to the privilege of
the stated Commons at Pamet, provided they buy land and settle
thereon.”2
“ At a Proprietors’ meeting, June 17, 1703, Thomas Mulford
was allowed to have, for £1 paid, certain lands,” and was also
“ accepted and allowed inhabitant of Pamet.” It was “granted
to Joseph Young to buy of David Peter, Indian, 4 acres of sedge
meadow.” Ranges were run between the great lots, and
bounds were set up. Lands for the ministry were reserved.
“ A division also was made to proprietors, of 30 acres to each
whole share, and, in proportion, to parts.” John Steel was also
voted, for a reasonable sum, 10 acres of upland and 4 acres of
meadow, and was admitted an inhabitant. Benjamin Rider
also had lands granted to him.
At a meeting, July 21, the same year, agents were appointed,
namely, Thomas Paine and Constant Freeman, on the part of
the proprietors, to meet with David Peter and Jed. and Jo.
Tonomatuk, to settle the bounds of lands bought of Peter; and
“in case said Indians refuse, to sue them for a settlement thereof
in the name and behalf of the proprietors; ” Also to “ run the
1Rev. Mr. Eelles was a grad. H. C. 1699.
* The proprietors’ “ voices ” were always “ accounted according to their
proprietiesANNALS OF TRURO.
545
range with Indians on the S. side of Moonpoon Valley, and to
divide the lands of Jediah” Lands were also granted to
“Machoiel1 Atwood and Joseph Young.”
In 1705, May 15, “ a grant of land was made to Hezekiah
Purington;” and Hezekiah Doane and Samuel Treat were
admitted inhabitants. It was further ordered that 12 acres of
meadow be laid out for the ministry. It was also ordered, that,
inasmuch as great damage is done by persons digging shells out
of the proprietors’ lands, to sell and transport, which shells might
otherwise be of use to the inhabitants to make lime, a fine be
imposed of 6d. pr. bushel.2
Again, it was ordered that certain lands, — u 6 acres
on the northeastern side of Eastern Harbor, in the
sedge-ineadow, — shall be for the use and improve-
ment of the first orthodox minister who shall be
orderly settled in the work of the ministry in said
Pamet, during the time of his continuing in the work
of the ministry there ; and in case he shall there con-
tinue in the work of the ministry until by reason of
age he shall be disenabled from performing the work
of a minister, then the abovesaid lands shall be his
own.”
“It was agreed with Capt. Jonathan Bangs to exchange a bit
of land joining to the easterly end of his great lot at Pamet for
a bit of land at the northeast corner of said lot, on the N5. E. side
of the swamp; ” and John Snow, Constant Freeman, and Thomas
Paine were app. to lay out and bound the same.3 Further, “ to
Mr. Theophilus Cotton 4 was granted one-ninth part of the
1	Perhaps intended for Michael.
2	Accumulations of shells, especially in the vicinity of certain swamps,
are yet to be seen, indicating that these places were especially the resort
of Indians; and here too are found, occasionally, their implements of
stone.
3	Mr. Paine had continued to hold the office of clerk for the Proprietors
to this date. He now “ declined serving any longer.” His records are all
made with neatness, clearness, and accuracy. So much cannot be claimed
for his immediate successors.
4	Mr. Cotton, grad H. C. 1701, did not accept the call thus extended to
him, but settled at Hampton Falls. He was brother of Rev. Roland of
Sandwich and Rev. John of Yarmouth, sons of Rev. John- of Plym. and
Charleston, S. C.; and grandson of Rev. John of Boston..
VOL. II.
69546
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
privilege of the shore (referring to drift-fish within the proprietie
of Patnet) during the time of his living in said Pamet; and he
was admitted an inhabitant: Provided he be settled in Pamet in
the work of the ministry. Also that he shall have a privilege in
the Commons, as good as any other man.” A special grant,
besides, was made to him of land; all predicated on the same
condition.
“ The wife of John Steel petitioned the proprietors for right to
occupy land that was fenced in by her husband ; begging they
will consider her circumstances and sorrowful condition, her
husband having absented hitnself.” Her request was granted.
In 1707, June 16, Hezekiah Purington was voted an inhabitant.
Nothing more of importance is on record in respect
to the doings of Pamet, until its incorporation by the
Colony Court as a town, by the name of Truro, July
16, 1709, at which time the town records proper com-
mence. From this time, until the absorption of the
proprietorship, distinct records were kept by Proprie-
tors and Town, and from both we shall continue to
gather what is most interesting to a full development
of the town’s progress. The proprietors seem still to
have been possessed of large and controlling power,
but to have acted in conjunction with the town for
the general good.
In 1709, Aug. 1, pursuant to the order of the Gen.
Ct., the inhabitants of Truro being duly warned, as-
sembled and elected town officers for the remaining
part of the year, namely, John Snow, town-clerk ;
Thomas Mulford, Jedediah Lumbert Jr., and John
Snow, selectmen; and Constant Freeman, treasurer.1
1 As a matter of curious interest, we here annex a copy of the original
act of incorporation of the town of Truro: —
“ Province of the Massachusetts Bay. l. s. — An Act for making Paw-
met, a District of Eastham, within the county of Barnstable, a township to
be called Truroe.
“ Whereas there is a certain tract of land known by the name of Paw-
met, at present a District of Eastham, and under the constablerick of that
town, consisting of about forty families, and daily increasing, — the said
land extending about fourteen miles in length from the Province lands atANNALS OF TRURO.
547
In 1710, Feb. 23, Mr. John Avert, “ who had for some
time been employed in the work of the ministry in Tru-
ro, was unanimously invited to settle as the minister
and pastor of the town. A salary of £60 per annum;
and £20 in aid whenever he shall see cause to build
himself a dwelling-house in said Truro,” was voted by
the town. May 8, the proprietors “ agreed that ample
provision be made for Mr. John Avery to settle.”
They voted him lands at Tashmuit, alias the Clay
Pounds, and admitted him an inhabitant with the
same proviso as aforetime annexed to their grants;
that is, “ that he settle in Truro; with the additional
tlie extremity of Cape Cod reserved for the Fishery and the lands of East-
ham on the south, and running northerly as far as the land called the Pur-
chaser’s lands extends over the harbor named the Eastern harbor ; accord-
ing to the known stated boundaries thereof, — the breadth thereof running
from sea to sea across the neck of land commonly called Cape Cod: And
whereas the inhabitants of the said district by their humble petition have
set forth that they have built a convenient house to meet in tor the public
worship of God, and have for some time had a minister among ’em; humbly
praying that they may be made a township, and have such necessary offi-
cers within themselves, whereby they may be enabled to manage and carry
on their civil and religious concerns and enjoy the like powers and privi-
leges as other towns within this Province have and do by law enjoy: Be it
therefore enacted, by His Excellency the Governor, Council and Represen-
tatives in General Court assembled and by the authority of the same, that
the tract of land called Pawmet, described and bounded as afore expressed,
be and hereby is erected into a township and made a distinct and separate
town, and shall be called by the name of Tuuroe, and that the inhabitants
thereof have, use, exercise and enjoy all the powers and privileges by law
granted to townships within this Province; and the constable of the said
place for the time being is hereby empowered and required to warn the in-
habitants to assemble and meet together to choose selectmen and other town
officers to manage and carry on their prudential affairs until the next anni-
versary time for election of town officers, and the said inhabitants are en-
joined to assemble and attend the said work accordingly. Provided, that
the inhabitants of the said town do procure and settle a learned Orthodox
minister to dispense the word of God to them, within the space of three
years next after the passing of this act or sooner. Provided also, that they
pay their proportion to the present province tax, as it is apportioned among
them respectively by the selectmen or assessors of Eastham.
“ Boston, July lGth 1709. This bill having been read three several
times in the House of Representatives, passed to be enacted.
John Clark, Speaker.
Diepdict. — This Bill having been read three several times in Council,
passed to be enacted.	Isa. Addington, Sec’y.
By His Excellency the Governor. I consent to the enacting of this Bill.
J. Dudley.548
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
qualification “ that he settle and continue in the work
of the ministry in this town.”
Richard Stevens was at the same time admitted by the pro-
prietors ; and they made arrangements for an exchange of land
with Daniel Sam, Indian. They also appointed Jedediah Lum-
bert and Thomas Paine, agents, “ to buy lands of the Indians
within the township of Truro, when, and so often as, any of said
Indians shall see cause to sell; ” and “ordered that none others
shall buy.”1
May 29, Mr. Avery accepted the invitation extended
to him; and Thomas Paine, Thomas Malford, and
John Snow, were appointed by the town a committee
“ to draw up an agreement with Mr. Avery, and to sign
the same on the town's behalf."2 It was voted, at
1	“ The first that owned cattle in this town were Eben’r Doane, William
Dyer, Sr., Jonathan Collins, Jeremy Bickford, Josias Cook, Jeadiah Lum-
bert, Jonathan Vickerie, Constant Freeman, Samuel Treat, John Snow,
Thomas Lumbart, Hezekiah Purrinton, Thomas Rogers, Benjamin Smalle,
Richard Webber, Thomas Smith, Daniel Smalle, Christopher Strout, George
Strout, and William Clap, all in 1710.”
2	That agreement was as follows: “ Whereas the Inhabitants of the Town
of Truro did, at a meeting of said town convened and held at Truro, Feb.
23, 1710-11, by unanimous vote, call and invite Mr. John Avery to a settle-
ment in the work of the Gospel ministry among them; and for his support
and encouragement in said work, did offer him £60 a year salary and £20
toward his building when he shall see cause to build him a dwelling-house
in said town, and sent by a Committee to inform the said Mr. John Avery
of their desire and offer in that matter, as by a record of said town, bearing
date Feb. 23, 1710, may more fully appear; but the said Mr. John Avery
deferred his answer until another meeting of said town convened and held
for that purpose, May 29, 1710, where said town did again shew by unani-
mous vote their earnest desire of the said Mr. Avery’s settlement among
them in the work of the Gospel ministry; and the said Mr. Averv being
then present did accept of said call: whereupon, said town chose Thomas
Multord, John Snow and Thomas Paine a Com. in the name and behalf of
the town of Truro to make a full agreement with the aforesaid Mr. John
Avery pursuant to their vote at their meeting, Feb. 23, 1710, as by the
record of said town, dated May 29, 1710, may more fully appear: Pursu-
ant wiiereunto, June 21, 1710, the abovesaid Mr. John Avery for him-
self and the above named Com. in the name and behalf of the town of
Truro, agreed as followeth: that is to sav, the above named Mr. John
Avery doth agree for himself that he will, God assisting him thereto, settle
in the work of the ministry in the said town of Truro; and the above-
named Thos. Mulford, John Snow and Thos. Paine, in the name and behalf
of the aforesaid town of Truro, do agree with the said Mr. John Avery, to
allow him for a yearly salary during the time of his continuance in the
work of the ministry in the aforesaid town of Truro, £60 per annum in
money as it shall pass from man to man in common dealing (or in otherANNALS OF TRURO.
549
the same meeting, that the town treasurer shall“ buy
a cushion for the pulpit in the meeting-house, also an
hour-glass, and a box to put them in ” when not in
use, and pay for these out of the town treasury.1
In 1711, Aug. 13, the town granted £10 "to defray
the charge of entertainment of elders, messengers,
scholars and gentlemen at Mr. Avery’s ordination; ”
and Lt. Constant Freeman, Ilez. Purington and Thos.
Paine were app. “ to superintend the arrangements
and agree with a meet person to provide.” It was also
ordered that Mr. Thomas Paine shall have £3 to reim-
burse him for money spent in securing the Act of In-
corporation, and the services of a minister. The
church of which Mr. Avery2 became the pastor, was
organized Nov. 1, consisting of seven male members
besides the pastor, an offshoot from the Eastham
church, and Mr. Avery wTas ordained the same day.
It was voted, Dec. 19 that “ if Thos. Paine will set up and
maintain a grist-mill within this town, he shall receive three
quarts toll out of every bushel that he grinds, and this town will
merchantable pay as It shall pass with the merchant in common traffic) at
or upon the 29th day of March annually; and £20 of like money, toward his
building, to be added to his salary on that year that he, the said Mr. Avery,
shall see cause to build himself a dwelling-house in the town of Truro afore-
said. In witness whereof, the above named Mr. John Avery for himself,
and the above named Com. in the name and behalf of the town of Truro,
have hereunto set their hands.
1	It does not clearly appear when the first meeting-house was built, nor
where it stood; but tradition says it stood in the neighborhood of the pres-
ent Union Church in N. Truro, or Pond-village. The ancient grave-yard
is supposed to have been around the first meeting-house, the county road
now passing through the location. The surveyor of roads, some few years
since, in following out the course marked out by the County Commissioners,
was under the necessity of disturbing the bones of some of those first bur-
ied here. An elderly man still living, 1857, remembers when graves were
distinctly to be seen at that spot.
2	Rev. Mr. Avery was b. in Dedham, 1685, and grad. H. C. 1706. It
will be perceived that he had ministered here some considerable time pre-
vious to his final settlement.
Signed,
June 21, 1710.550
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
give him £60 toward the erection of said mill.” Lt. Constant
Freeman, and Messrs. John Snow and Nath’l Atkins were app. a
com. “ to make a full agreement with Mr. P. in behalf of the
town.” It was also “ voted that, whereas crows and blackbirds
do much damage by pulling up and destroying the young corn,
every housekeeper shall bring, or cause to be brought, between
the middle of March and the last day of June, to the selectmen,
8 blackbirds’ heads and 2 crows’ heads, or proportionable thereto,
or forfeit 3s. to the use of the poor; and that for additional
heads, a bounty be paid, — Id. for blackbirds and 4d. for crows.”
The bounds between this town and Eastham were adjusted, and
several highways laid out.
In 1712, at a proprietors’ meeting, Feb. 28, it was decided “to
give Jo. Tonomatuk his demand of 30 s. to quiet his claim to
land which Jeremy Anthony, Jediah John and David Peter, In-
dians, sold to Nath’l Atkins.” Also, “ that in consequence of
great waste being made of wood, in burning lime to be sent out
of town, which may cause a scarcity of firewood, no person must
cut on the commons for this purpose.” Further, it was “ordered
that this regulation, and that against cutting cord-wood and tim-
ber, be presented to the Court of Gen. Sessions of the Peace, for
their approbation.”
In 1713, the town voted “that £3 bounty be paid, in addition
to what is allowed by the Province law, for every head of grown
wolves.”
In 1714, the town ordered that “a convenient piece of ground
on the N. side of the meeting-house be cleared for a burial-
place.” The proprietors, at a meeting, Aug. 18, selected agents
“to assist the selectmen of the town in joining with a committee
appointed by the Gen. Court to settle the bounds and run the
line between the Province land at Cape Cod 1 and the proprietie
of Truro.”
In 1715, the first mention is made of any public effort here for
the support of schools. It was then ordered in town meeting,
Mar. 21, “ that Rev. Mr. Avery and the selectmen be a com. to
procure a suitable person to keep a town school.” The proprie-
tors, April 26, determined to make application to the next Court
of Quarter Sessions for the County of Barnstable, “ for a high-
way to be laid out from Eastham to Truro, and through Truro
1 Such was the name at this time appropriated exclusively to the tract
belonging to the Province and subsequently known as Province-town.ANNALS OF TRURO.
551
down to and through the Province lands upon Cape Cod as the
law directs.”
It having been found impracticable otherwise to prevent great
waste of the wood on the commons, people often cutting more
than they needed, and more even than they could dispose o£
thus “letting it lie and rot on the ground,” it was ordered by the
proprietors “that the commons be divided. Mention is made,
this year, of lands being granted to Machiel Atwood, Beriah
Smith,1 Josiah Cooke, Francis Smalle, Eben’r Hurd, Wm. Dyer
Jr.,2 Samuel Smalle, Samuel Young Jr., Eben’r Smith, Jonathan
Dyer, Richard Grey, Geo. Pike, and Hannah Jeffrie. The pro-
prietors provided that some error to which their attention had
been directed, touching a certain transaction with the Indians,
should be at once corrected ; and assign as their reason for this
provision, “We are not willing that any Indian should suffer
any wrong through our means or mistake.” The dividing line
between this town and Eastham was settled by Sam’l Mayo and
John Paine on the part of Eastham, and Thomas Paine and
Thomas Mulford in behalf of Truro.
In 1716, the town having been presented the last year, for its
delinquency in not having provided a schoolmaster, Jonathan
Paine was appointed, Jan. 10, to appear in the town’s behalf at the
Court of Gen. Sessions; and £’20 was appropriated to pay the
schoolmaster for the present half-year’s schooling. Mr. Samuel
Spear, who appears to have been the teacher of the first public
or common school in the town, was then engaged “ for the entire
year, commencing at the expiration of his present term.”3 lie
was to receive £40, and “ board himself.” The inhabitants, intent
on due economy, “ determined to save in some way what they are
compelled to expend for schools,” voted not to send a represen-
tative to the Gen. Court; ” and affixed to this resolution were
their reasons for the omission, namely, — “because we are not
obliged by law to send one, and because the Court has rated us
so high that we are not able to pay one for going.” The school,
however, went on regularly henceforward.
1	Mr. Beriah Smith was prob. son of John of Eastham, and b. Mar. 2,
1680. He m. Alice Wormwood Ap. 19, 1711. His bro. Ebenezer, b.
Jan. 16, 1683, also set. here, and later generations set. in Provincetown.
2	Mr. William Dyer, of Barnstable, m. Mary Taylor, dr. Henry, Dec.
1686, and had Lydia Mar. 30, 1688; William Oct. 30, 1690; Jonathan
Feb. 1692 ; Henry Ap. 11,1693 ; Isabel July 1695; Ebenezer Ap. 3, 1697;
Samuel Oct. 30, 1698; and Judah Ap. 1701; and removed to Truro.
3	Mi*. Spear was the minister sometime in Provincetown, and grad. II.
C. 1715.552
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1719, it was “ voted to raise for Mr. Avery £10 additional
salary the present year, to be paid in Bills of Credit.” Also
“that leave be granted to Nath’l Atkins, Thos. Smith, Jeremiah
Bickford, and such others as shall join them, to build galleries in
the meeting-house, over the old galleries, at their own charge.”
The project of the applicants, and the permission from the town,
were superseded by a vote of the town soon after, Oct. 3, “ to
build a new meeting-house, 22 ft. in the walls, 40 feet long, and
36 ft. broad,” for which object the town appropriated £350.
In 1721, the following entry, verbatim, appears, Mar. 21: “At
a meeting of the town of Truro, on the day and year above
written, for giving enlargement to swine by a town vote, accord-
ing to an Act passed by the Great and General Court, in the 7th
year of the reign of His present Majesty, King George ; at which
meeting Francis Smalley was chosen moderator,— at the same
meeting, said town agreed that the swine belonging to the said
town might go at large under such regulations as the law has
provided, voted.” The town gave liberty, Aug. 24, to Rev. John
Avery “ to build a pew in the new meeting-house, on the left
hand of the pulpit, at the going up of the pulpit stairs. At the
same meeting the town “ agreed that all the room below, except-
ing what shall be filled by seats, the Deacon’s seat, the ministerial
pew, and that granted to Mr. Avery, be fitted up with pews by
such persons as will be at the cost of the room and building said
pews.” Also “ to proceed now and sell the sites for pews in the
new meeting-house.”1 Nine pew spots were sold, namely : —
No. 1, At the right hand
as one goes in at the
front door, to Capt.
Constant Freeman, for £5.10.
“ 2, At the left hand, to
Jno. Snow,
“ 3, To Machiel Atwood,
The com. for the sale
plats, or places whereon
lows: —
No. 5, To Phebe Paine, £1.15
“ 10, To Joshua Paine, 1.15
No. 4, To Jon a, Paine,
“ 6, To Jno. My rick,
“ 7, To Thos. Paine,
“ 8, To Thos. Smith,
“ 9, To Micah Gross,
5.00.	“ 11, Jed. Lumbert,
3.05.
reported, Aug. 23, “ the three
to build pews, have been sold
No. 12, To Jona. Vick-
ery,
3.15.
£2.15.
2.15.
2.15.
2.15.
3.15.
other
as fol-
£3.05
'This house, built in 1721, standing on a high hill, was, for a long course
of years, a conspicuous object to mariners, and to be seen at a great distance.
It stood 119 years.ANNALS OF TRURO.
553
The town agreed, Sept. 25, to take its part of the £50,000 in
Bills of Credit, issued by the Province, “ to improve the same
toward the building of the meeting-house now begun,1 — ex-
cepting such part as belongs to the inhabitants of Cape Cod,
which part we agree to let the said inhabitants have, provided
they give sufficient security for the same;”2 and Messrs. Jere-
miah Bickford, Xath’l Atkins, and Jona. Vickery, were app.
trustees “ to receive this town’s proportion of the said Bills of
Credit lodged in the hands of the Province treasurer.” The town
also voted “ that contributions be regularly taken up, as soon as
the new meeting-house is finished; and that the inhabitants, as
often as they contribute, enclose the money so contributed in a
piece of paper with his or her name written thereon.” It was
ordered, Oct. 31, u that the trustees of the town's fund of bills of
credit, pay to Mr. Sam’l Eldridge £177, and that said Eidridge
return to the inhabitants all that they have paid over one half of
what they were rated for the building of the meeting-house; he
to return the balance to the agents or undertakers of the build-
ing.” “ Mr. Winter was engaged to keep the town school 1
yr. and 3 mos. after his present term shall expire.” Thomas
Paine Esq. died this year, June 23, as. 65.3
In 1723, an addition of £10 was again made to Mr. Avery’s
salary.
In 1724, a grant of lands was made by the proprietors to Mr.
David Vickery.
In 1725, Mr. Avery’s salary was £90.
In 1728, July 17, Thos. Mulford, Jona. Paine, and Benj. Collins
were app. trustees to receive for the town its proportion of the
£60,000 loan, and were instructed as to the manner of “ letting it
out.”
In 1730, Feb. 16, a com. consisting of Rev. John Avery and
1	Mr. Thus. Mulford “ entered his dissent to this appropriation, for the
reason that he thought it not agreeable to the Act of Court.”
2	The Province-town was, in some sense, a part of Truro. Although
made a District and Precinct in 1714, it was still under the municipal direc-
tion of this town.
3	Thomas Paine Esq., (or, as his death is recorded, “ Capt. Thos.
Paine, Esq.,”) was one of the most influential and active of the early settlers,
and was many years clerk of the proprietors of Pamet. He is understood
to have been son of Trios, of E. who was the son of Thos. in Plvm. 1G3 7.
See p. 378 ; also Vol. I. 635. lie was the first representative of this town
in Gen. Court, 1714. The patronymic embraces a large portion of the
inhabitants of this town to the present day.
VOL. II.	70554
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Messrs. Caleb Hopkins, Elkanah Paine and Humphrey Purington,
were chosen by the proprietors, “ to prevent cattle and horses
going upon the meadows and the beaches adjoining.” The ob-
ject was the preservation of the meadows from destruction by
sands. The com. were to assign to each proprietor his particular
proportion of fence to be made for this purpose. The proprietors,
at this time, were : -
Henry Atkins,
Isaiah Atkins,
Joshua Atkins,
Silas Atkins,
Malchiel Atwood,
John Avery,
Edward B ings,
Jonathan Bangs,
Jeremiah Bickford,
John Con ant,
Edward Cowett,
Ambrose Dyer,
Henry Dyer,
Judah Dyer,
Sam’l Dyer,
Sam’l Eldridge,
Constant Freeman,
Caleb Hopkins,
Thomas Hopkins,
John Lewis,
Jedediah Lombard,
Andrew Newcomb,
Elkanah Paine,
Jonathan Paine,
Moses Paine,
George Picke,
IL u mph rey Purington,
Richard Rich,
Thomas Ridley,
Francis Smalley,1
Isabel Smalley,
Thomas Smith,
Joshua Snow,
Richard Stevens,
Joseph Young,
Samuel Young.
In 1 733, Nov. 10, the impounding of Doct. Dyer’s horse occa-
sioned much trouble; and, although other and more strict regu-
lations were made to prevent horses and neat cattle from going
at large, difficulties on account of cattle and fences existed for
years, furnishing subject for much debate, if not acrimony, at
every town and proprietors’ meeting and on various occasions.
Mr. Michael Gibson was engaged, Dec. 24, to keep the town
school one year, for £50.
In 1734, Nov. 8, Ens. Moses Paine was agent for this town, to
meet agents from Eastham, Harwich, Chatham, and Province-
town, at the house of Capt. Sam’l Knowles in Eastham, or else-
where, to unite with said agents in petitioning the Gen. Court
that these towns may be constituted a county.
In 1 735, Mr. Avery’s salary was raised to £100.
In 1737, this town, with the design of uniting with other towns
in petitioning the Gen. Court to provide that two of the inferior
Courts of Com. Pleas and Courts of Gen. Sessions for the County
of Barnstable may be held annually in Eastham, chose Thomas
Paine Esq. its agent for the aforesaid purpose. The same year,
1 The name frequently occurs written Small, Smalley, or Smalle ; the
patronymic is the same in all cases, although these several names have
come, at last, to represent distinctive branches.ANNALS OF TRURO.
555
the schoolmaster having shown kindly feeling and extended sym-
pathetic aid to an elderly couple during the inclemency of winter,
was complimented by the following vote: “To give Mr. Gibson
for keeping school, after the rate of £55, in consideration of the
charge he has been at in supporting the ancient people with
whom he has lived the winter past.”
“ Good, the more
Communicated, more abundant grows;
The author not impaired, but honored more.”
In 1738, a large com. was app. by this town, “ to petition the
Gen. Court for courts in Eastliam, and for a court-house and jail
to be built there.”
In 173D, a com. was app. by the town, “ to cause the law to be
enforced to prevent the killing of deer at improper seasons.” This
animal was formerly numerous, even thus low down on the Cape ;
and deer-reeves were among the officers appointed by the towns
many years. A reward was, this year, offered by the town u to
any one who shall kill the wolf that has of late been prowling
through this township ; or any wolf that shall, in future, be found
here.”
In 1740, the town voted “ to strengthen the memorial to the
Gen. Court, lately gotten up by the inhabitants of Provincetown
with a view to the preservation of the beach and meadows.” For
some reason, the town, after a hearty concurrence in the measure,
reconsidered the same, and voted that said memorial is disap-
proved. On further consideration, the town demanded a hear-
ing “ in the matter of Cape Cod Harbor and fishing-places,” —
insisting that the damage done the Province-lands had been mis-
represented.
In 1745, it was voted to add £30, old tenor, to the minister’s
salary; it was thought necessary also to appoint a committee “ to
take care of the boys that they don’t play in meeting on the
Sabbath.” Mr. Constant Freeman died this year, ae. 76.1
*Mr. Constant F re km an, b. Mar. 31, 1009, s. of Dea. Samuel of E.,
m. Jane Treat Oct. 11, 1094, and had Robert Aug. 12, 169G; Jane Sept.
20, 1097, d. inf.; Jane Mar. 5, 1099; Constant Mar. 25, 1700; Mercy
Aug. 31, 1702, who m. Caleb Hopkins Oct. 8, 1719 ; Hannah May 3, 1704,
who m. Mieah Gross Aug. 20, 1725 ; Eunice Nov. 25, 1705, who m. Wm.
Crocker Mar. 4, 1733; Elizabeth Feb. 4, 1707-8 ; Jonathan June 9, 1710,
who m. Rebecca Binney Sept. 23, 1731, and had Jane 1732, and Jona.
May 18, 1739, and removed to Gorham, Me.; Apphia Jan. 14, 1713, who
m. Samuel Bickford Oct. 0, 1731; and Joshua July 4, 1717, who m. Re-
becca Parker Oct. 9, 1740. The nine eldest were b. in E., the two young-
est in Truro.556	HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE county.
In 1746, Mr. Avery’s salary was “fixed at £150 in future.”
Bounds between this town and Province town and Eastham were
renewed.
In 1747, Mr. Avery’s salary was made £200 per annum, on
condition that he release the town from all demands for the past.
The schoolmaster was voted £60.
In 1748, the boys were still inclined to play in meeting; a* .
Mr. Thos. Cobb Jr. was “app. to correct them.”
In 1752, Nov. 6, it being thought “advisable to hire
some suitable minister to assist Rev. Mr. Avery in
preaching the gospel, this winter, Mr. Joshua Atkins
and Dea. Barnabas Paine were app. to look out for
someone. The town “agreed to bear Dea. Paine’s ex-
penses and cost of shoeing his horse, to go to Barn-
stable for the purpose,1 and Mr. Atkins’ expenses if he
hires a horse and rides out of Boston in pursuit of the
same object.”
In 1753, Jan. 3, a com. was chosen “to converse
with Rev. Mr. Avery respecting an assistant.”
A man was app. “to take care of and chastise the boys who
play in meeting.” It was “ ordered that the town’s powder be
dried.” Mr. Charles Turner was engaged as schoolmaster; “ his
pay to be £40 and diet, for three months.” Also voted that, “for
the time to come, if any person shall take a boy under 10 years
old to drive black-fish or porpoises, he or they shall have nothing
allowed for the boy; and that when any black-fish or porpoise
shall be driven ashore and killed by any number of boats of the
inhabitants of this town, if one man or more shall insist on hav-
ing the fish divided to each boat, it shall be done.” The town
was “ put to some charge for old Moll, a negress who has been
troublesome for years.”
It was “ agreed to give Rev. Mr. Avery £100, old
tenor, — equal to £13. 6. 8. lawful money, for the
present year, — he giving up the right to the parsonage
property, both wood and improvement.” Also, July
30, to give a call either to Mr. Chas. Turner, Mr. Caleb
1 A son of Rev. Mr. Green of Barnstable was proposed.ANNALS OF TRURO.
557
TJpham, or Mr. Sam’l Angier, to preach the gospel, on
probation. The corn, of supplies were Messrs. Benj.
Collins, Joshua Atkins, Barnabas Paine, Joseph Smal-
ley, and Rd. Collins. It was voted, Aug. 15, “to give
<£80 per annum, either in money or other merchanta-
ble pay as it shall pass with the merchant in common
traffic, and the improvement of the parsonage lands,
for the support and encouragement of an orthodox
minister regularly called and settled in the Gospel min-
istry in this town, provided he allow Rev. Mr. Avery
£13. 6. 8. yearly out of his salary;” also voted “to
present the much-respected Mr. Charles Turner Jr.,1
whom the Church of Christ in this town have, by their
unanimous vote, called to the pastoral office, with a
copy of these proceedings concurring with the church
in the call.” At a meeting, Oct. 22, Mr. Turner having
declined the call, the former votes were reconsidered,
and it was “ voted to give him £80, lawful money,” —
with the same provision in regard to Mr. Avery. The
latter offer he accepted ; whereupon Messrs. Joshua
Atkins, John Rich, and Moses Paine were a com. “ to
draw a covenant,” and Messrs. Joshua Atkins, Rd. Col-
lins and Rd. Stevens a com. “ to make all necessary
arrangements for the ordination appointed for the last
Wednesday in Nov., and for the entertainment of
elders and messengers.” Mr. Turner now desired to
be released from his engagement.
In 1754, it was “voted to petition the Gen. Court for an act to
prohibit neat cattle and horses from going at large on the banks
and beaches; and Barn’s Paine, John Rich and Joshua Freeman
were chosen a com. to prefer the petition.
This year, Ap. 23, after a lengthened pastorate of
44 yrs., the Rev. John Avery died, se. 69. It is said
*Mr. Turner grad. II. C. 1752.558
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
that he was both physician and pastor. To the day of
his decease he was greatly admired and beloved by
the people of his charge, — emphatically a good man,
— highly esteemed as a physician, and greatly useful
as a minister.1
After the decease of Mr. Avery, a com. was sent to
Rev. Mr. Lewis of Eastham to ask “ how he approved
of Mr. Caleb Upham.” The com. reported Mr. Lewis
replied that “he knew nothing against him. or of
him.”
In 1755, Jan. 9, Rev. Caleb Upham was called, and
a salary of v£53. 6. 8. per annum, was voted him, with
a settlement of £80 and use of the parsonage. A
meeting was held, Feb. 10, to hear and act on Mr.
Upham’s answer; when it was “voted, that inasmuch
as many of the inhabitants are called away from the
meeting by news of a whale in the Bay, this meeting
be adjourned to Feb. 11, one day.” At the adjourned
meeting, an addition of £6. 13. 4. was made to the
salary before voted, making it £60, lawful money.
Mr. Upham requiring, in addition, 20 cords of wood
per annum, to be cut and delivered at his door, this
also was conceded. His acceptance was then commu-
nicated, Feb. 17, and he was ordained Oct. 29.2
1 His tombstone says ; “ Here lie the remains of the Rev. John Avery,
who departed this life the 23d of Ap. 1754, in the GOth yr. of his age, and
the 44th of his ministry, the first pastor ordained in this place.
“ In this dnrk cavorn, in this lonesome grave,
Here lies the honest, pious, virtuous friend :
Him, kind Heav’n to us Priest and Doctor gave, —
As such he lived; as such we mourn liis end.”
During his pastorate, “he admitted to the church 367 members.” Mr.
Avery was son of Rev. Wm. of Dedham by his w. Elisa., and was brother
of Rev. Joseph of Norton. By his w. Ruth who d. Oct. 1, 1732, se. 46, he
had children, one of whom, John Esq., of Boston, was father of John Esq.,
many years secretary of the commonwealth ; another son, Ephraim, b.
1712, grad. II. C. 1731, was a clergyman set. in Ct. 1 735. Mr. Avery had
a 2d w. Ruth, who d. Nov. 1, 1745.
2Rev. Mr. Upham was b. in Falmouth, Me., 1723, and grad. II. C. 1744.ANNALS OF TRURO.
559
Mr. Jonathan Paine had leave “to build a wharf below the
bank at Indian Neck, somewhere against the land of Esq. Paine.”
The town raised £71. 17. 6. lawful money, and placed in the
hands of Capt. Constant Freeman “ to pay the men hired in the
town to go to Crown Point.” Mr. Barnabas Paine died this
year.
In 1756, Mr. Jonathan Paine died.
In 1757, Mar. 22, Mr. Joshua Atkins was deputed “to petition
the Gen. Court that the town be protected and excused from im-
presses.” A com. was app. “ to consult with the inhabitants of
Provincetown respecting building a battery there, this town
pledging assistance in the work ; ” also “ to petition the General
Court for aid in the same;” also “to assist the military officers in
drawing the alarm list.” The Gen. Court was petitioned again
in regard to the protection of this town, the defences having
been suspended; and the town voted “ that the military watch
and ward be carried on at Cape Cod, and that here a suitable
number of guns and ammunition be brought to the meeting-house
every Sabbath to be ready in case of alarm.” The scheme for
enlisting men in the service of the Province, as generally adopt-
ed in the towns, was the resort here. The sum of £15 per mo.
was voted to be paid to each of the town’s quota, from the town
treasury, in addition to the Provincial wages.
Mr. Woomly was engaged as schoolmaster. The expenses of
a town government were, at this period, by no means oppressive;
each selectman received £1 for his services the past year.
In 1759, money was again raised to encourage men to enlist in
His Majesty’s service for the invasion of Canada. Twenty men
were required from this town, and to each of these £15 was
voted.
In 1759, Mr. Constant Freeman died, se. 59.1
In 1760, the privations and exactions consequent on a state
of war, had borne so heavily on this and other maritime towns
that the town petitioned for an abatement of its province tax.
The town-school, ever an object of interest with the inhabitants,
it was now, as often, difficult to supply with a suitable master.
Educated men offering for the employment were few compara-
tively, and their services were generally early secured by the
1Mr. Constant Freeman, b. 1700, s. of Constant, had by liis w. Ann,
Constant, Jr. who m. Lois Cobb Sept. 23, 1754, who were the parents of
Ilev. James, D. D. b. Ap. 22, 1750, who grad. II. C. 1 777, and was in-
ducted minister of King’s Chapel, Boston, 1782, and d. Nov. 14, 1835.560
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
larger towns. The frequent mention of town action in providing
for supervision of the boys in time of public worship, is a triv-
ial matter to record as a portion of history, except as it illustrates
as we conceive, the unfortunate arrangement for “seating the
congregation ” in early times, — the boys being congregated in
the “ boys’ seats in the galleries ” where they were free from
parental oversight; and also brings to view the existence and
position of men, who, except for such record, might be passed
unnoticed. Those app. “ to correct and whip the boys that are
disorderly on Sabbath days at or about the meeting house,” this
year were Chas. Annis, Benj. Lewis, and Solo. Dyer.
In 1762, an abatement of the provincial tax of this town was
again asked; the reason now assigned, “ on account of the great
losses sustained by the town, in consequence of the blowing of
the sand upon the cultivated lands and meadows the winter
past.” The meeting-house, this year, underwent considerable
repairs.
In 1764, Mr. Moses Paine, many years town clerk and filling
other useful offices, died, ae. 69.1 2 * 4 5
In 1765, it was thought expedient to petition the Gen. Court
“ to be excused from providing a Grammar-school, and to be per-
mitted to substitute a good English-school for reading, spelling,
writing, and cyphering.”
It was also voted to enlarge and remodel the meeting-house.
This being accomplished, the sales of pews intended for the aris-
tocracy— for every community, in all ages, has had, by some dis-
tinction, its higher orders — were as follows: Pew No.
1.	To Benj. Collins, it
being located immedi-
ately on the right side
of the front door,	£198.
2.	To Joseph Cobb, left
side front door,	188.
8. To Jos. Atkins, west-
erly side of pulpit,	214.
4.	ToRd. Collins, itbeing
the old minister’s pew, 182.
5.	To Isaiah Atkins, next
lower end of the men’s
front seat,	170.
6.	To Gamaliel Smith,
next lower end of wo-
men’s front seats,	174.
7.	To Thomas Cobb, next
to No. 5,	136.
8.	To Anthony Snow,
next to No. 6,	136.
9.	To Josh. Knowles,
next No. 7,	£118.
'Mr. Moses Paine, born Sept. 25, 1695, s. of Thos. Esq., appears to
have been a man of much influence.ANNALS OF TRURO.
561
10. To John Rich, next
to No. 8,
lower floor were to be finished
118. at the town’s expense.
11. To Gamaliel Collins,
at lower end of men’s
hindmost seats,
stairs, sold for £11 to Zacheus
100. Rich, Jr.
The spot for a pew over men’s
12. To Rd. Stevens, at
lower end of women’s
hindmost seats,
. men’s stairs to the gallery, to
103. Joshua Atkins for £16.
The spot for a pew over wo-
gg3 These 12 pews, on the
In 1767, Mr. Samuel Hincks was engaged as schoolmaster.1 *
The town referred to a select com. consisting of Rd.
Collins. Joshua Freeman, and Constant Hopkins, Dec.
21, “ the memorial of the Selectmen of Boston, re-
specting loafsugar and other enumerated articles men-
tioned in the Boston Resolves of Oct. 28, last.” The
result was a vote “ to leave the affair to the discretion
of the town of Boston to act as they shall think proper
and beneficial to the Province.”
In 1774, a com. was chosen “to repair the burial-
place.” And, “ at a town-meeting, Feb. 28, several
persons appeared of whom it had been reported that
they had purchased small quantities of the East India
Co’s, baneful Teas lately cast ashore at Provincetown.
On examining these persons, it appeared that their
buying this noxious tea was through ignorance and
inadvertence, and that they were induced thereto by
the villanous example and artful persuading of some
noted pretended friends of government, from the neigh-
boring towns: It was, therefore, Resolved that the meet-
ing thinks them excusable with their acknowledgment.”
It thus appears that, notwithstanding the exposed lo-
cation of this town, — on the northernmost extremity
of the peninsula of the Cape, — the people, as a whole,
1Mr. Hinks grad. H. C. 1701. It is greatly to the credit of the age
that, by law, none but well-educated men were “ allowed” as school-
masters.
VOL. II.	71562
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
were patriotic and not inclined to falter in the strug-
gle for independence. Though the soil was yielding to
the tread of man and beast, the hearts of the citizens
were unyielding to the oppressor, stout in maintaining
the patriot cause. At the same meeting, the town
app. Capt. Joshua Atkins, Isaiah Atkins, Dea. Joshua
Freeman, Doct. Samuel Adams, and Messrs. Epil Hard-
ing, Thatcher Rich, Nath’l. Harding, Benj. Atkins, and
Hezekiah Harding, a com. " to prepare a proper resolve
to be entered into by this town respecting the intro-
duction of Teas from Gt. Britain subject to a duty pay-
able in America.” The com. reported as follows : —
“We, the inhabitants of the Town of Truro, although by our
remote situation from the centre of public news deprived of op-
portunities of gaining so thorough knowledge of the unhappy
disputes that subsist between us and the parent State as we
could wish ; yet, as our love of liberty and dread of slavery is not
inferior perhaps to that of our brethren in any part of the
Province, think it our indispensable duty to contribute our mite
in the glorious cause of liberty and our Country by declaring in
this public manner our union in sentiment with our much re-
spected brethren of Boston manifested in their patriotic resolve
inclosed in the late letter of their Com. of Correspondence to
this town, and our readiness to afford in our contracted sphere
our best assistance in any prudent measure in defence of, or for
the recovery of, our rights and privileges and to avoid being
brought into that deplorable state of wretched slavery with which
we are threatened by the unconstitutional measures, if persisted
in by the administration, and in particular by their late danger-
ous and detestable scheme of sending Teas to the colonies by
means of the E. Indies Co., subject to the unrighteous American
duty, — a scheme, as we apprehend, designed to take in the un-
wary and to continue and establish the tribute so unjustly forced
from us, — a tribute attended with the aggravation of being
applied to maintain in idleness and luxury a set of worthless
policemen and pensioners and their creatures who are continually
aiming at the subversion of our happy Constitution, and whose
example tends to debauch the morals of the people in our sea-
ports which swarm with them : And, as we think the most likelyANNALS OF TRURO.
563
method that we can take to aid in frustrating the inhuman de-
signs of the administration is a disuse of that baneful dutied
article, Tea, Therefore,
“jResolved, That we will not by any way or means knowingly
promote or encourage the sale or consumption of any tea what-
ever while subject to an American duty; and that all persons
whoever they may be that shall be concerned in a transaction so
dangerous to the well-being of this Country, shall be treated by
us as the meanest and basest of enemies to their Country's de-
fence : And, though we have the mortification to own that some
persons among us have been weak enough to be led astray by
noted rescinders from all good resolutions, we cannot in justice
to ourselves omit making public the fact that no person in this
town could be prevailed upon to accept the infamous employ-
ment of transporting the tea saved out of the Messrs. Clark’s
Brigantine, from Cape Cod to the vessel; but that the repeated
solicitations of the owners were refused notwithstanding lib-
eral promises of a large reward, and notwithstanding we had
several vessels here unemployed : and, it affords us great pleasure
and satisfaction that our highly esteemed brethren of the town
of Boston have made so brave a stand in defence of American
Liberty ; and that wisdom, prudence, and fortitude accompanied
all their proceedings. We return them our sincere and hearty
thanks for the intelligence they have from time to time afforded
us, and hope they will continue their opposition to every measure
tending to enslave us; and wish their manly fortitude maybe
increasing under the great public grievances to which by their
situation they are more peculiarly exposed.”
The preceding was signed by every member of the
Committee, and was adopted by the meeting, nem. con.;
and then “ ordered to be recorded and transmitted/’
The aforesaid Committee were, by unanimous vote,
constituted a Com. of Correspondence for this town.
In 1775, the town voted, Mar. 13, “to pay over to
Henry Gardner Esq., of Stowe, its Provincial tax.”
To this, Gamaliel Smith and Job Avery entered dis-
sent.
The committee chosen, May 25, to represent this town in the
County Congress to be held in Barnstable, were Capt. Ambrose564
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Dyer, Dea. Joshua Freeman, Israel Gross, Eph. Harding, and
Eben’r Rich. A company of military was organized, June 1,
with David Smith, Capt.; Jno. Sellen, Lt.; and.Benj. Harding*
Ensign. At the same time, it was “ voted that Ambrose Smith
be Capt. of the alarm-list, Epli’m. Harding, Lt., and Barzillai
Smith, Ens.; and “that each man employed as Watch to guard
the town shall have for each night that he watches faithfully, 50
cents.” A com. was also chosen “to direct the watch.” It was
ordered, Dec. 25, that “ if any man fire away any powder except
to defend the town, he shall forfeit 6s. for every charge so fired.”
Additional arms and ammunition were ordered ; and a petition
was forwarded to headquarters for 12 cannon and 500 men to be
stationed near Provincetown.
These were distressing times for all, for much self-
sacrifice was required; and, upon those in straitened
circumstances, the necessities of the crisis bore with
intensity. Rev. Mr. Upham, the town minister, gen-
erously relinquished £50 of his salary, requesting that
it might be appropriated to the poor. Economy and
retrenchment were practised as circumstances required;
it was even “ voted to give up the schools, except one,
till better times.”
During the entire period of the Revolutionary War,
this town had almost no means of defence; certainly
none adequate to threatening dangers ; and yet, what
was lacking in fortifications or numerical force was
sometimes made up by stratagem. On one occasion,
when menaced by the enemy’s fleet in the Bay, demon-
strations of landing being made against the north part
of the town, near Pond village, the town’s militia,
which, with exempts, was the only force that could
be brought to oppose veteran British soldiers, took a
position near one of those elevations, or moraines, for
which the face of the town is so noted, and, on the
enemy approaching the shore, were seen by them
emerging from the depression on one side and passingANNALS OF TRURO.
565
over in regular file across the sea-side of the moraine.
As the van was constantly disappearing by passing
down into the opposite depression — but, in fact, around
the hill, and yet the ranks still remained unbroken,
undiminished, — apparently company after company,
— and the procession seeming interminable; it was
naturally supposed by the enemy that an immense
force was assembled and passing to some secure am-
buscade for more effectually operating upon and sur-
prising them on their landing. It was not judged pru-
dent, therefore, by the British commander, to attempt
a landing. He little imagined that the same little com-
pany was, for hours, thus passing around and around
the narrow base of the apex, for the mere purpose of
a ruse.
In 1776, Jan. 15, it was thought proper to revoke the request
that was made the 25th of the previous Dec., for cannon, etc.>
and simply “to ask for 3 field-pieces.” Capt. Hezekiah Harding
was delegated to present the petition. The town was so pecul-
iarly situated that, being advised, it was thought best as a mat-
ter of precaution and expediency to intrust to a select commit-
tee the action of the town in case of certain contingencies. Ac-
cordingly, Feb. 12, a corn, was chosen consisting of Isaiah Atkins,
Ephraim Lombard, Richard Stevens, Dea. Joshua Freeman,
Ephraim Harding, Ambrose Dyer, and Barzillai Smith, “to dis-
course with the men of war, should they come with a flag of
truce, to know what their requests are, and to do what they shall
think best for the town and Province.”
The com. of cor. and safety, chosen Mar. 3, were Capt. Am-
brose Dyer, Dea. Ephraim Harding, and Mr. Ebenezer Rich.
The question of Independence was considered in
town-meeting, June 18 ; and, at an adjourned meeting
July 9, the town instructed their representative “ to
fall in with the Provincial and Continental Congresses.”
It was voted, July 29, “to give each man who will enlist to fill
this town’s quota” for the Crown Point expedition,£25. Militia
officers were chosen for the South District of the town, Sept. 3,566
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
namely, Eben.Rich,Capt.; David Snow, 1st Lt.; and "Rd. Rich 3d,
2d Lt. It was also voted, the next day, “that the town’s quota
for the Continental army be drafted.” It should be noted that,
on the 1st inst., a meeting had been held “to raise 3 years’ men
for the army, or during the war,” and $40 had then been offered
by the town to each recruit; but it was now found necessary to
draft.
On the last day of this month, the question of “ the
Union ” was debated, and referred to a select commit-
tee.
“ The inhabitants assembled in town-meeting, ~Nov. 12, to hear
the Treason-law read,” Dea. Joshua Freeman being moderator.
This was occasioned by no defection on the part of those who
had been friends of Liberty ; the reading in all towns was imper-
ative. From the peculiar situation of the town, and the tempta-
tions which the possession of Cape Cod Harbor by the enemy
presented, the lower towns of the Cape were often the resort of
men waiting for opportunities; and possibly of some who, in
times of civil commotion are always found, that,
“ dubious whom
They must obey, in consternation wait
Till rigid conquest shall pronounce their liege.”
In 1778, “some of the soldiers drafted having paid their fines,
a committee was sent to the Brigadier to advise what is best to
be done about making up the quota of the Continental men.”
An agent, Capt. Reuben Higgins, was also sent, for the same pur-
pose, to the Gen. Court. A watch was set to guard against ships
in the harbor, and provision was made for the families of soldiers
absent on duty. “To the minister, Mr. Upham, £50 was voted
more than his salary the last year.”
In 1779, the town petitioned for more arms. The Rev. Mr.
Upham was sent as a delegate to Boston, to adjust the prices of
the necessaries of life, and $100 was raised to bear his expenses.
The new State Constitution was accepted, and the representative
instructed. The town, Aug. 29, approved of the resolves of the
Convention at Concord; and a com. was chosen to regulate the
prices here, of articles omitted by that convention. To defray
town and county charges, £1800 was raised.
In 1780, the town again petitioned the Gen. Court
for an abatement of State tax. To Rev. Mr. UphamANNALS OF TRURO.
507
£416 was voted “on account of depreciation of mon-
ey ; ” and “ £60, hard money ” was voted for his salary.
It was also ordered that “ a portion of the three front
seats in the gallery be set apart for the singers.” It
was voted “ to raise £6050 to defray town charges.”
The town was anxious to furnish promptly its quota
of soldiers now required for the Continental service
for 6 mos., and it was “ voted that 20 hard dollars, or
20 bu. of corn be paid, in addition to the £2 promised
by government, to each man who shall enlist; and
also to allow 6s. per mile travelling fee to the place
of abode on receiving honorable discharge.” To pro-
vide the beef required of this town for the sustenance
of the army, was regarded as impossible ; and it was
“voted that in lieu thereof £4416 be sent to the Gen.
Court.” Subsequently, the town voted $ 1000 to each
man who will enlist in the Continental service. A com.
was app. “ to see if the Gen. Court will allow the de-
preciation on the money paid to soldiers’ wives.” Mil-
itary officers chosen this year were Jedediah Paine,
Capt., Seth Dyer, 1st Lieut., Ambrose Snow Jr., 2d Lieut.
One hard dollar was ordered receivable in the collection
of taxes for seventy-five paper. Again, in July, an at-
tempt was made to raise five-months’ men for the army
and $100 in silver was offered as the town bounty.
In 1781, it was exceedingly difficult to collect rates.
Very little money was to be had, and could be obtained
only by few persons at a ruinous sacrifice. A meeting
was called, Sept. 17, “ to consult what can be done to
furnish blankets, shirts, shoes, and stockings demanded
from this town for the army.” Hon. Solomon Lombard,
formerly of this town, died this year in Gorham, Me.1
1 Mr. Bernard Lombard of Bo., b. 1G68, s. of Jabez, had Joanna
1692; Mchit. 1693; Matthew Jan. 15, 1698; Maria 1700; Bethia 1702 ;
John 1704; and Solomon Mar. 1, 1706. Solomon, b. 1706, grad. H. C.568
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1782, great effort was requisite to make provision
for the poor. These were days of severe trial; but
the people were governed by noble impulses; they
were patriotic, and, in the midst of all their sufferings,
were never known to neglect the widow and father-
less or to withhold from the needy. The judgment of
suph as in the day of calamity can “ stretch themselves
upon their couches, chant at the sound of the viol,
drink wine in the bowls, anoint themselves with the
chief ointments, and are not grieved for the affliction
of Joseph,” was not upon them.1
A committee was again chosen this year, “ whose
duty it shall be to go on board the enemy’s ships in
Cape Cod Harbor, if necessity shall arise.” The bless-
ings of Peace, however, lighted the prospect of the
future, before the close of another year, and inspired
fresh hopes. No adequate idea of the privations and
anxieties of previous years of hostilities can be con-
veyed to tbe mind of the reader better than by the
simple narrative of recorded facts as set forth in pre-
ceding pages. There are moments when a people can
neither listen safely to hopes, nor fears. Hope seems
forbidden, despair must not be indulged. The good
Providence that brought our fathers safely and tri-
umphantly through the perils of the Revolution should
ever be devoutly recognized by their posterity; and
the acknowledged Independence that in 1783 was the
1723, entered the ministry, preached some time in Provincetown, and finally
set. in Gorham, Me., where he was inst. Dec. 26, 1750. u lie entertained
more liberal sentiments than comported with the age; ” and, leaving the
ministry, was app. judge of the court of Cumberland County. lie was
very active as a patriot during the Revolutionary period. He was a forcible
writer, and the author of many papers urging resistance to tyranny. Sept.
1774, he was a member of the Provincial Congress. His descendants are
in Maine ; E. H. Lombard of Hallo well was his grandson.
1 During the Revolution, four masters of vessels with all their men, most
of whom belonged in this town, were lost at sea. Numbers died in the
prison-ships at New York.ANNALS OF TRURO.
569
fruit of long years’ toil, sacrifices, and bloodshed, should
be gratefully cherished.
In 1786, Ap. 9, the Rev. Caleb Upham died, m. 63,
after 31 years’ ministry in the service of this town.1
A meeting was held, Sept. 25, “ to see if the town will
concur with the church in calling to the pastoral office
Rev. Jude Damon.” The town united in the call, and
voted £200, specie, “by way of settlement;” and “ a
salary of £75, specie, annually, besides the use of the
parsonage; 15 cords of good oak wood and 3 cords of
pine to be delivered at his door each year; and 5 tons
of hay to be delivered in like manner.” The call was
not entirely unanimous; a few dissented. He was
ord., Nov. 15 ;2 after which the town voted $40,“ Span-
ish-milled,” to Capt. Joshua Atkins for entertaining
the ordaining council. Mr. Elisha Dyer died in 1790.
In 1792, more seats were required in the meeting-house, and
it was ordered that additional pews be built in the gallery.
In 1793, in the month of Dee., four young men belonging here
were lost at sea; and in 1795, Dea. Joshua Freeman died, ae.
78.3
In 1798, the amount raised for town-schools was $200, and $40
was voted for the support of a singing-school.
In 1807, we obtain, in the absence of other matters of interest,
1	Rev. Caleb Upham u was a good scholar, an entertaining preacher, a
warm friend to his country, and an honest man.” It is said that “ a taste
for poetry was apparent in all his compositions : and he left at his decease a
poem in MS., founded on the Book of Job. He was ever attentive to the
best good of his people, and a faithful pastor.” During his ministry, 286
were admitted to church membership. He m. Priscilla Allen of Falm., Me.,
dr. of Rev. Benj., who was b in Tisbury, Martha’s Vineyard, and set. at
Bridgewater, 1718, at Cape Elizabeth, 1734, and d. sc. Go.
2	Rev. Mr. Damon was b. in E. Sudbury, 1751, and grad. II. C. 1776.
3	Dea. Joshua Freeman, b. July 4, 1717, s. of Constant, was more
than a half century an officer in the old Cong. Church in this town, and his
name prominent in all public affairs. He m. Rebecca Parker Oct. 9, 1746,
and had Appliia Oct. 2, 1748, who m. Samuel Gross Aug. 16, 1768; Re-
becca Mar. 15, 1750. who d. inf.; Sarah Jan. 16, 1752, who m. Nathaniel
Smith, of Gerry, Sept. 3, 1773; and Rebecca Feb. 18,1 754, who m. Corne-
lius Lombard May 30, 1775. His will is Dec. 5, 1794; inventory Dec. 1,
1795.
VOL. II.
72570
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
a partial glimpse of the town as it presented itself to the eye
and mind of travellers. The town has, perhaps, not changed
more than others in its physique or morale, since that period;
in the former, probably less.1 Mr. Isaac Paine died Mar. 31,
1810 ;2 and Mr. Thomas Paine, Oct. 14.3
In 1813, a number of families petitioned to be set
off to Provincetown, that place being most convenient
to their business and estates.
In 1814, the troubles of 1812-15 having exposed
the town once more to privations and dangers conse-
quent on a state of war, a committee of safety was
appointed, Aug. 9, consisting of Israel Lombard Esq.
1	Kendal says, “ As there were no regular inns in Truro, I sought lodging
at hazard. There are always those, where there are no public houses, who
will lay themselves out to give entertainment. It was my fortune to apply
at the house of Capt. Oisadiah Rich, an obliging, industrious, and appar-
ently thriving mariner with a large family, house of which the dimensions
were increasing, and a good tract of land.” Mr. K. was generally pleased
with the proofs he saw in the place of goodly content and courteous hospi-
tality. Although Mr. Iv. could find on the Cape no parallel to Milton’s de-
scription of lowly sheds and smoky rafters, we have no doubt he could, on
leaving the hospitable mansion of Mr. Rich, heartily apostrophize, in quota-
tion, the sentiment, —
“ Courtesy
„	Is sooner found in lowly sheds,
With smoky rafters, than in tap’s try halls
And courts of princes.”
Rev. Dr. Dwight probably accurately describes what might, at this period,
as he says, “ be called with propriety Cape-Cod houses ” in bleak and ex-
posed situations on the lower part of the Cape. lie writes, “ These have
usually one story, with four rooms on the lower floor, and are covered on
the sides, as on the roofs, with pine shingles about 18 in dies in length.
The chimney is in the middle, and immediately behind the front door; and
on'each side of the door are two windows. The roof is straight, and under
it are two chambers, there being two larger and two smaller windows in
each end. This is the general structure and appearance of the great body
of the houses from Yarmouth to Race Point. There are, however, several
varieties, but of too little importance to be described. A great proportion
of them are in good repair, and generally they exhibit a tidy, neat aspect
in themselves and in their appendages, and furnish proofs of comfortable
living by which I was at once disappointed and gratified. The barns are
usually neat, but always small.” It may be needless to say that u the vari-
eties ” have multiplied and many larger structures are now to be seen in all
these towns.
2	Mr. Isaac Paine, s. of Joshua, m. Abigail Snow 1762, and had Phebe,
Ebenezcr, Tho’s, Abigail, Joshua, Isaac, and Mary.
3Mr. Thomas Paine, s. of Isaac, m. Asenaih Higgins Oct. 6, 1795, and
had Ruth, Sarah, Abigail, Lurana, Samuel, and Thomas.ANKALS OF TRURO.
571
and Messrs. Jaazaniah Gross, Freeman Atkins, Josiah
Stevens, Stevens Mills and Zaccheus Rich.
In 1815, Jan. 14, the inhabitants of Provincetown having peti-
tioned the Gen. Court that the inhabitants of other towns be pro-
hibited from fishing at Race-Point, this town remonstrated.
In 1818, a number of inhabitants petitioned 66 to be
set off to Wellfleet, they living near the dividing line.”
Against the application this town objected. By abate-
ments of its territory on either hand, the township
seemed destined to be shorn of both its original dimen-
sions and population to a greater extent than was con-
venient.
In 1823, Col. Constant Freeman died, Feb. 27, in Washington.
The general grief occasioned here by disasters at sea in 1825 has
been noticed in our former volume.
In 1 827, application was again made by sundry in-
habitants to be set off to Wellfleet; and, in 1828, sun-
dry inhabitants applied to be set off, with their estates,
to Provincetown. The town was also bereft of their
minister, Nov. 23, Rev. Jude Damon.1
In 1829, Mr. Damon was succeeded in the pastorate
by Rev. Stephen Bailey.2 In 1832, Mr. Bailey was
succeeded by Rev. Silas Baker, who was ordained
May T.3
In 1833, the town petitioned Congress for assistance
in deepening Pamet River. The Rev. Mr. Baker re-
signed the pastoral office in 1834. Other inhabitants
1	Rev. Jude Damon had been settled here 42 yrs., and died as. 77,—“a
man of peaceful and lowly spirit, greatly respected and beloved.”
“ His preaching1 much, but more his practice wrought;
A living sermon of the truths he taught.’’
During his ministry, which until near its close embraced the whole town-
ship in its charge, he adm. to church membership 186. Mr. Damon’s wife
was dr. of Mr. George Lewis.
2	Rev. Mr. Bailey had previously been settled in Greenfield, N. II., and
in Nantucket.
3	Rev. Mr. Baker was from Edgecombe, Me., and grad. II. C. 1828.572
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
sought to be set off to Province town in 1835. Rev.
Charles Boyter succeeded Mr. Baker in the ministry
in this town, and was installed Mar. 16, 1836.
Having now arrived at a period when divisions eccle-
siastical have already occurred, and changes in the
ministry are become mere incidents exciting little in-
terest, we might well pass by any further mention of
these oft-recurring events. In fact, we have little
more to record of the progress of this ancient town.
In 1837, the town voted to receive its portion of
the surplus revenue and appropriate to public schools.
This disposition of the fund was, however, reconsid-
ered, — unwisely, as is since thought; and it was voted
to devote it to any town expenses except the support
of schools. The fund was soon among the things that
were ; and to the inquiry respecting the benefits de-
rived from it, echo answers in the language of the
interrogator. Still the common schools were not neg-
lected.
In 1840, the State school-fund having given fresh impulse to
efforts in this direction, the town appropriated for its schools
$750, and a gradual improvement was thenceforward discovera-
ble.
In 1841, again a large portion of the inhabitants
were called to mourn the loss of relatives, connections,
and neighbors at sea. The record is made in these
suggestive terms : “ On the night of that memorable
day, Oct. 3, fifty-seven of our brave seamen were
swept from the shores of time, their remains sinking
into one common watery grave.” 1
1 “ On the previous night, at 11 o’clock, the win .1 had risen to a violent gale
from the northeast attended with rain. It continued to increase its fury
until about 4 o’clock on the morning of the fourth. So great was the vio-
lence of the gale that the strongest canvas was blown into shreds. Most
of our vessels were fishing on the southwest part of George’s Bank. On
the night of the second, they made sail to run for the highland of Cape
Cod. But there were mighty currents unknown to them before, whichANNALS OF TRURO.
573
In 1842, May 22, the North Cong, church was or-
ganized. Mr. Ebenezer Paine died Mar. 17.1
In 1848, the town petitioned the Legislature for
leave to build a breakwater and wharf at the Pond
Landing, — the breakwater to be 800 feet in length
and 550 feet distant from high-water mark; and the
wharf to be 400 feet in length, in the direction of the
breakwater, for the protection and shelter of boats
and small vessels and for the better prosecution of the
fisheries. A portion only of the work was construct-
ed, when it was found that the wood-work was being
almost immediately destroyed by worms. Its comple-
tion, therefore, was abandoned.
In 1849, Rev. Edward Noble became pastor of the
church at Truro Centre, and, 1850, Mr. Barnabas Paine,
town-clerk, died.2
In 1853, the amount raised for the support of schools
reached 01300. The town obtained permission from
the legislature to attempt the improvement of Pamet
Harbor, by placing spiles in such way and direction as
would be advantageous for the purpose. It was hoped
that, by the action of the current in consequence of
the obstructions, the channel might be deepened. The
experiment was made at a cost of about 02000, raised
by private subscription; but, we regret to say, without
commensurate results. The struggles of the inhabi-
carried them out of the proper course to the southwest. Finding they could
not weather by the highland, they wore ship and stood to the southeast,
but being disabled in their sails and rigging, they were carried by wind and
current down upon the Nantucket Shoals, which extend fifty-or sixty miles
into the ocean southeasterly from that island. These unfortunate mariners
were nearly all young men under 30 years of age.”
*Mr. Samuel Paine, who d. October 12, 1712, m. Pat’e Freeman 1683,
and had 10 ch., one of whom was Joshua, b. 1696, who had Sam’l, Isaac,
Seth, and Joshua. Isaac had, by his w. Phebe, 8 ch., one of whom was
Ebenezer, who m. Sarah Smith ; and his s. Isaac and sons-in-law Reu-
ben Chapman and Dean Snow were lost at sea, 1816.
2 Mr. Barnabas Paine, s. of Barnabas, who was s. of Daniel, m.
Hannah Cohen, and had, besides others, Samuel C., the present town-clerk.574
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
tants against adverse elements, although often discour-
aging in the issue, have been worthy of all commenda-
tion.
In 1855, the sum voted for common schools was $1450, and
suitable rules were enacted to secure a better attendance of the
children and generally for the better regulation of the schools.
The next year, the sum appropriated was $1500; and the pro-
gress has not abated. There were, in 1858, seven school-districts
with as many neat and commodious school-houses, six of which
had double rooms. The cost of erecting these was about $8000.
Until the year 1852, the schoofhouses had been, under the old
regime, built by districts; hence no mention of them in the town
records.
In 1857, Nov. 21, Capt. John Collins, formerly of
this town, died in New York.1
In 1861, Dea. Allen Hinckley died, Feb. 16, se. 91
yrs. and 4 mos.2 Mr. Israel Lombard, formerly of this
town, a noted resident of Boston, died this year.
We close the Annals of Truro, I860, adding the
usual statistics, with acknowledgment of the pleasure
derived in recording the always patriotic action of the
town in 6i times that tried men’s souls.” Its inhabi-
tants, whatever privations they were called to endure,
“ still acquiest,
And never liumm’d and haw’d sedition,
Nor snuffled treason ; ”
but were true to their country’s cause. Thus will it
JSee Yol. I., 669-71. To this gentlemen and his kinsman, Mr. E. K.
Collins, both originating from this town, is to be conceded the honor of initi-
ating regular steam communication between this country and Europe.
2 Dea. Hinckley was, at the time of his decease, the oldest man in the
town. He was b. in Falm. Sept. 24, 1769, and came to this town when
young and served his apprenticeship as a carpenter. There were
others of the family early located here ; Benjamin, who m. Dinah Swett
of W., and had Azuba, Joshua, Benj., Dorcas, Betsey, Thankful, Solo., etc.
Joshua m. Thankful Baker of W., and had Thankful, Ruth, Betsy, and
Joshua. Dea. Beniamin m. Mercy Collins, and had Dorcas, Hannah,
Mercy, Benj., and Delia.AXXALS OF TRURO.
575
ever be where love of country stands next to love of
God: —
“ The man that’s resolute and just,
Firm to his principles and trust,
Nor hopes nor fears can blind.”
We cannot doubt that, at the present national crisis
when Rebellion is rampant in our land, the sentiment
of the people is,
“ Bid them disband their legions,
Submit their actions to the public censure,
And stand the judgment of a Roman Senate.”
REPRE SENT ATI VE S.
Yrs.
1714. Thomas Paine,	5.
17n>. Constant Freeman,	1.
1717. Tlios. Mulford,	2.
1721. John Snow,	3.
1723. Jona. Paine,	3.
1757. Barnabas Paine,	1.
1701. Isaiah Atkins,	1.
1774.	Benj. Atkins,	1.
1775.	Sam’l Harding,	1.
1770. Reuben Higgins,	2.
1779. Sylv’s Snow,	2.
1781. Wm. Thayer,	2.
1785. Eph’m Harding,	3.
1791.
1800.
1810.
1824.
1N31.
1833.
1834.
1835.
1830.
1837.
1838.
Anthony Snow Jr..
Levi Stevens,
Isr’l Lombard Jr.,
James Small,
Jno. Kenney,
Shub’l Snow,
Eben. L. Davis,*
Joshua Small,
Henry Stevens,
Solo. Davis,
Jonas Stevens,
Freeman Atkins,
Yrs.
, 0.
1.
1.
8.
2.
4.
2.
2.
2.
2.
2.
2.
1839. Jedediah Shedd,	3.
1<S40. Michael Snow,	1.
1842.	Jno. Kenney Jr.,	1.
1843.	Hugh Hopkins,	1.
1844.	Ricn’d Stevens,	1.
1*45. Eben’r Davis,	3.
1848.	Levi Stevens,	1.
1849.	Daniel Paine,	2.
1*52. James Small,	1.
1853. John Smith,	1.
1*55. Sam’l H. Smith Jr., 1.
1850. Adin H. Newton, 1,
SELECTMEN.
Yrs. '	Yrs.
1709.	John Snow,	12.	1715. Constant Freeman,	7.
“	Thos. Mulford,	9.	1720. Francis Small,	10.
“	Jed. Lombard,	5.	“ Andrew Newcomb,	3.
1710.	Benj. Small,	1.	“ Richard Stevens,	1.
“	Isaac Snow,	1.	1723. Jno. Myrick,	15.
“	Humph’y Scammon	, 1.	1725. Jona. Vickery,	3.
1711.	Eben Doane,	1.	1720. Sam’l Eidred,	1.
1712.	Thos. Rogers,	1.	“ Jona. Paine,	30.
	Thos. Paine,	0.	1727. Elk’ll Paine,	10.
1713.	Nath’l Atkins,	1.1	“ Ezekiel Cushing,	1.
“	Josiah Cooke,	1. !	“ Wm. Sargent,	1.
1714. Hezek’h Purinton,		1. i	1730. Jer’h Bickl'ord,	1.
1731.
1734.
1744.
1748.
1751.
1753.
Thos. Smith,
Edward Covel,
Samuel Rich,
Thos. Cobb.
Barnabas Paine,
Eben Dyer,
Zuccheus Rich,
Isaiah Atkins,
Jona. Dyer,
Joshua Atkins,
Jas. Lombard,
John Rich,
Yrs.
3.
1.
4.
11.
20.
2.
1.
1.
2.
* The families of the name of Davis in this town, it is understood are descended from
Mr. Benjamin Davis, who came here from Snow Hill, Maryland, when a youth. He
m. Elisa. Rowe whose mother was Savage, and had sons Benj., James W., and Eben’r L.
Benjamin m. Sarah Long, dr. Jno. of H., and m. 2d time in Readfiold, Me., where he d.
aged. James W. m. Sarah Atkins, dr. Benj., and had three sons, namely, Benj. James,
and Ebenezer; also several drs. one of whom is the wife of Duct. Knight of Somerville.
Ebenezer L. m. Azuba Hinckley, dr. Benj., and had Dinah, who m. Capt. Benj. Dyer ;
Solomon Esq., who m. Elisa. Snow, and is of distinction in this town ; Ebenezer, who
m. Maria Harding, dr. Jona., and now resident in Somerville, a highly respected citizen;
Betsy, who m. Isaac S. Gross, now of Somerville; Benj., who m. Betsy Stevens,and has
issue ; Azuba, who m. Th^s. Paine of E.; and Joshua H., who m. Ann S. Lombard, now
of Boston.
We regret that we are obliged to pass by some genealogical notices, for want of
early and definite information. Mr. John Hughes died May, 1799, aged 48. He was
born in the Isle of Wight, and came to this town when twelve years of age. By m.
with Rachel Dyer, dr. Fulk and Elisa., he had eight children. His decease was occa-
sioned by casualty — lost in the Bay with four others.576
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
xrs.
1751. Paul Knowles,	1.
“ Anthony Snow,	3.
17(5:). JobArey,	3.
17(50. Eph’m Lombard,	3.
“ Eben. Rich,	7.
1707. Daniel Paine,	2.
17(59. Ambrose Dyer,	7.
“ Benj. Collins,	7.
1770. Eph’m Harding1,	13.
“ Jeded’h Paine,	5.
1777.	Barzillai Smith,	1.
1778.	Israel Gross,	3.
1781.	Benj. Atkins,	1.
“ Thomas Paine,	2.
1782.	Timo. Nye,	4.
1783.	Sylv’s Snow,	5.
1785. Benj. Hinckley,	2.
1787. Fulk Dyer,	1.
“ Natli’l Atkins,	9.
1787. Jesse Rich,
1795. David Dyer,
1790. Caleb Hopkins,
“ Benj. A Uphara,
1797. Ambrose Snow,
“ Levi Stevens,
1802. Jona. Rich,
“ John Gross,
“ Isaac Small,
1804. Joseph Small,
1807. Barnabas Paine,
1809.	Paul Dyer,
1810.	Israel Lombard,
1811.	John Rich,
1812.	Allen Hinckley,
1814. Sylv’s Nye.
1816. Jas. Collins,
“ Eben. Atkins,
1818. Reuben O. Paine,
Yrs.
8.	1818. Benj. Hinckley, Jr.	, 1*
3.	1819. Barnabas Paine,	4.
8.	“ James Small,	10.
1.	1822. Joshua Small,	5.
13.	1823. Asa Selew,	3.
9.	1824. Jno. Kenney,	23.
1.	1833. John Smith,	4.
2.	1835. Freeman Atkins,	2.
1.	1836. Jonas Stevens,	9.
3.	1837. Jed’h Shedd,	11.
11.	1839. Neh’h Rich,	2.
5.	1841. Solo. Davis,	2.
4.	1843. Dan’l Paine,	4.
14.	1846. Solo. Paine, Jr.,	1.
2.	“ Jas. Hughes,	11.
3.	1847. Sam’l Dyer,	2.
4.	1849. Atwood Rich,	5.
4. 2.	1855. Sears Rich,	3.
TOWN TREASURERS.
Yrs.
1709.	Const’t Freeman,	1.
1710.	Thos. Paine,	11.
1721. Thos. Paine,	2.
1724. John Snow,	2.
1720. Moses Paine,	25.
1745. Joshua Atkins,	11.
1755. Eph’m Lombard,	3.
xrs.
1763. Richard Collins,	4.
1767. Job Avery,	1.
1770. Israel Gross,	7.
1777. Richard Stevens,	3.
1779.	Benj. Rich,	1.
1780.	Elisha Dyer,	5.
Yrs.
1782. Joshua Freeman,	5.
1787. Sylvanus Snow,	1.
1791. Anthony Snow,	26.
1817. Lewis Lombard,	18.
1835. Barnabas Paine,	15.
1848. Sam’l C. Paine,
xrs.
1709.	John Snow,	11.
1710.	Thos. Paine,	11.
1721. Thos. Paine,	14.
1745. Moses Paine,	20.
1764. Barnabas Paine, 7.
TOWN CLERKS.
Yrs.
1769. Daniel Paine,	15.
1785. Sylvanus Snow,	3.
1788. Benj. A. Upliam,	9.
1797. Levi Stevens,	2.
Yrs.
1799. Anthony Snow,	17.
1817. Lewis Lombard,	18.
1835. Barnabas Paine,	15.
1849. Sam’l C. Paine,
* There were two of the name of Thos. Paine who held the offices of treasurer and
clerk; but we are unable to decide the precise time of either. We think the times above
specified are correct; if not, either Moses Paine or John Snow, probably the former, oc-
cupied the offices longer than the term assigned.
^We endeavor to be accurate in these statistics; the town
not only voted not to send, many years, but, for a number of
years when rep’s were chosen, their attendance was subject to
the direction of the selectmen. The above table may not, there-
fore, correspond entirely with the State record.THE
ANNALS OF THE TOWN
O F
CHATHAM.
“IK ALL THE TRIALS AND SACRIFICES OF OUR ANCESTORS ONE THING APPEARS PROMI-
NENT,—THE BEAUTY AND GLORY OF SUFFERING, WHEN ENDURED FOR CONSCIESCE* SAKE.
OBEDIENCE TO THE SUPREME LAW GAVE A HEAVENLY LUSTRE TO THEIR EXAMPLE AND A
sweet fragrance to their MEMORIES.”— Rev. Edmund H. Sears.
VOL. II. 73.
(577)fttstnjjixon
TO ELIJAH ¥. CARPENTER, M. D.,
OF CHATHAM:
Should we turn to the etchings ex marmore antiquo, of Hippocrates or Galen,
which, with the representations of other ancients, grace the walls of our studio,
hoping to receive from these sons of JEsculapius the inspiration enabling us to
say all that is worthy of their honored Disciple ; still, the brief space allotted to
a dedicatory page would preclude the doing more than simply
INSCRIBE
These Annals of" his adopted Town and of his wife’s nativity, as hereby, very re-
spectfully, in token of the sincere regards of
[’HE AUTHOR.ANNALS OF CHATHAM.
The original Indian name of this town was Mom-
moyick} In the year 1665, Ap. 10, Mr. William
Nickerson “bought of John Quason, alias Toivsomet, sa-
chem of Monomoyick, a tract of land near Potanuma-
quut,— bounded E. by the Great Harbor, S. by a line
which extends W. by S. into the woods from Weequas-
set to a pine-tree marked on four sides,1 2 and N. by a
line extending to the further head of a pond to a place
called Porchommock.,, In 1672, June 19, “ 3fattaquason
and John Quason, sachems of Monomoyick, for and in
consideration of one shallop, ten coats of trucking-
cloth, six kettles, twelve axes, twelve hoes, twelve
knives, forty shillings in wampum, a hat, and twelve
shillings in money,” sold to said William Nickerson “ a
tract of land and meadows at Monomoyick, on the W.
side of Muddy Cove and extending southerly to Match-
apoxet Pond, thence by a creek to the sea, and extend-
1	Variously written. Sometimes Manamoyick, Monamoy, Manomoy,
Manomoyet, Monamoyick, according to the fancy of writers; and as we
have heretofore used the orthography of the records from which we quote,
we shall still. The locality intended cannot be mistaken. Except when
Gosnold, May 16, 1602, visited “ Cape Care,”—as he named the Point,
and was waited on by “ natives who appeared perfectly friendly, — some
of whom wore copper plates upon their breasts and had pendents in their
ears and were furnished with pipes and tobacco; ” and, excepting also the
name of Malabarre given to a part of Monomoyick by De Monts, in 1605,
no similar word, to the present day, indicates any other tract. See Vol.
I. 29 and 41.
2	“ Near the road from Chatham to Saukatuckett mill.”
(579)580
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
ing easterly to Oyster Pond.”1 Again, Mar. 29,1678,
also Aug. 16, 1682,2 and at divers times said Nicker-
son enlarged his claims by new purchases of lands and
meadows, for all which he made to the Indians valua-
ble considerations.
But the same year that Mr. Nickerson began hi.
purchases, the Colony Court at Plymouth had “ granted
to Mr. Thomas Hinckley, Mr. John Freeman, Mr. Wm.
Sargeant, Mr. Anthony Thacher, Mr. Edmund Hawes
Sr., Thos. Falland Sr., Lt. John Rogers, and Mr. Nath’l
Bacon, the right to purchase of the Indians lands at
Monomoyick and places adjacent.” This grant, of
1665, interfered with the projects of Mr. Nickerson
who had purchased without such grant, which grant
or permission from the Court was necessary to make
his title valid. A disposition was manifested by the
Court, notwithstanding, “ to allow him 100 acres at
Monnamoiett.”3 In 1667, Mr. Nickerson’s purchase
was before the Court, on a petition from William Nick-
erson Sr., Nicholas Nickerson, Robert Nickerson, Sam-
uel Nickerson, John Nickerson, William Nickerson Jr.,
Joseph Nickerson, Robert Eldred, Tristram Hedges,
and Nath’l Covel, — all of the Nickerson family,—
father, sons, and sons-in-law. The difficulties which
the preceding transactions involved sufficiently appear
in former pages.
In 1672, for a valuable consideration, Mr. Hinckley
and his associates conveyed, July 3, to Mr. Nickerson
their grant, and also all the lands they themselves had
purchased under it. This made his title indisputable,
and it was subsequently confirmed by authority.
On the settlement of Monomoyick, which appears
to have soon followed, it was considered as one of the
'Plymouth Court records, Lib. xii., fol. 251.	2Lib. xvi., fol. 463.
3 This proposition was entertained by the Court in 1GG5.ANNALS OF CHATHAM.
581
towns of the colony, as is evident from the fact that
Monomoyick was, in June, 1686, “ordered by the
Court to choose a grandjuryman.”1 And, Feb. 11,
1691, “ liberty was granted to the inhabitants to elect
and send a deputy to the General Court.”2
In Mar. 1691, the bounds of the place were en-
larged ; and this appears to have been the last act of
the Colonial Court respecting it.
By the Legislature of Massachusetts, it was incorpo-
rated a township by the name of Chatham, June 11,
1712.
Situation and Boundaries. — Chatham lies in lat. 41° 41'
N., and long. 69° 56' W. from Greenwich. It is bounded E. by
the ocean ; S. by the Vineyard Sound; W. and N. W. by Har-
wich ; and N. by Pleasant Bay which, with the exception of a
narrow- beach on the N. E., separates it from Orleans. It is thus,
as will be perceived, nearly encompassed on three sides by the
waters of the Atlantic. In length, E. and IV., it is, exclusive of
the harbor, about 4 m. in extent; and, in breadth, N. and S.,
about the same distance. The distance of the principal village
from the court-house in Barnstable, from which it lies in an east-
erly direction, is about 20 m.; to Provincetown, about 40 m.;
and to Boston, about 93 m.
Natural Divisions, etc. — The township consists of sandy
hills of moderate elevation, intersected with narrow" valleys;
ridges, lesser depressions, ponds, and low grounds or swamps
making up the residue. The hills being nearly of equal height,
the valleys are by the observer, even a short distance off, not
perceived, and to him the township appears one elevated plain.
Great Hill, a short distance east of the principal settlement, lifts
itself somewhat above the other elevations and is the first land
made by seamen on arriving on this part of the coast. From
its two summits, the prospect is extensive, and, at times, — when
“the land looms,” — Nantucket, 20 miles distant, is visible from
1 At the Colonial Court, June, 1686, Barnstable was ordered to choose 3
grandjurymen, Yarmouth 3, Sandwich 3, Eastham 3, Monomoyick 1, and
Succonessct 1.
2u Except in the above instances, Monomoyick does not appear to be rec-
ognized as a town/’ — Baylies.582
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
this hill. The heights of other hills and ridges also command a
fine view of the sea.
The principal roads, passing through Harwich toward Barn-
stable, or through Orleans down the Cape, or in other directions,
give the traveller an unfavorable impression of the productive-
ness of the land; and the impression, it is apprehended, will not
be materially changed for the better by an exploration of the
whole township. In some instances the winds have swept away
the turf, carrying off also the soil, and even sub-soil to the
depth of several feet, — leaving only here and there specimens
of the original surface in abrupt and diminutive banks of the
former height of the once surrounding soil. The sub-soil thus
discovered exhibits often a thick substratum of shells generally
lying about two feet below the former turf. And yet there is
productive land; not enough, however, to induce any considera-
ble portion of the inhabitants to engage in husbandry or to cul-
tivate the earth with the expectation of emolument.
Few towns in the county are so well provided with harbors.
The first in importance teas that called Old Harbor, — formed
by a narrow beacli continued from Orleans, making from the
northeastern extremity of the town and projecting southward
8 or 10 miles in length, terminating in what is called Sandy
Point or Cape Malabarre, and completely guarded from the ocean.
A breach in this tongue of land has served as the northernmost
entrance to the harbor; but changes wrought by winds and tides
are of frequent occurrence. The entire haven on the western
side of this beach is extensive; but the harbor proper of Chat-
ham reaches not more than 4 miles north, to Strong Island,—
the waters which are within the limits of the towns of Orleans
and Harwich being known by other names. The breadth of this
harbor is about three-fourths of a mile. On the inside of the
beach are flats and salt marshes. There is also marsh on the
southern side of Strong Island. These marshes are covered by
tides. Neither within, nor near the harbor are rocks; but the
mouth is obstructed by bars which extend S. and S. E. of the
point of beach three-quarters of a mile. On each side of the
mouth of the harbor are breakers, the one called the North
breakers, the other South. There are also, within the outer bars,
bars in the harbor; and these are so constantly shifting, by reason
of storms and strong currents which set in and out, that it re-
quires the skill aided by daily observation and familiarity with theANNALS OF CHATHAM.
583
changes being wrought to navigate safely.”1 At low water there
is usually a depth of about 7 ft. on the outer bars, common
tides rising about 6 ft. North of these the shore becomes more
bold. Within the harbor is “good holding-ground.” At the
entrance, the bottom is sandy; further in, muddy ; and the depth
at low water about 20 ft.
With all its vicissitudes, the extended haven proper of Chat-
ham lias many advantages for the encouragement of home indus-
try and the convenience of a scattered population. Although
not justifying the creating of any one extensive central mart of
business, its proximity to the ocean, with the coves and creeks
by which its western shore is indented, enables an approach by
water to within a short distance of every man’s door. The
points that form some of these coves and creeks are Nona-
messet Neck, south of Harwich line and bounded on the N.
by Pleftsant Bay; Eldridge’s Point, S. of the neck, leaving
Crowell’s Bay between the neck and the point, and S. of the
latter, Eldridge’s Cove ; S. E. of this is Covel’s River, at the head
of which is a small body of marsh; E. of this, Muscle Point;
then, S. E., Nickerson’s Point; and still further S.,Morris’ Cove,
separated from the harbor by Little Beach.
The beach, the extremity of which is called Sandy Point,2 or
Cape Malabarre, stretching 10 m. into the sea toward Nantucket,
and being from three-quarters to one mile wide, has, on the E.
side, a curve called Stewart’s Bend, where vessels have been ac-
customed to anchor. North of the bend are bars and shoals;
1	Not only do the bars change, but the mouth of the harbor is ever vary-
ing, so that those only who reside near can at any day determine where is
the safe entrance. In 1800, the beach had been extended more than a
mile within the memory of the living; and, at that time, the mouth of the
harbor was still moving gradually southward, by the accession of sand
to the point of beach. After the lapse of a half-century more, after being
finally closed by a beach 25 feet high, covered with beach grass, it was
opened again by a violent storm. There are two lighthouses off the har-
bor. From these, Old Harbor is about two miles distant. In the year 1626,
there was an entrance from the ocean into Monomoyick Harbor, as it was
called, opposite Potanumaquut, 6 miles N. of the present mouth. A ship
entered it, and was stranded on the beach. See Vol. I. 111-118. Three-
quarters of a century since, the wreck was yet to be seen; and this place
bore the name of Old Ship. The entrance closed many years ago; and,
since that time, other passages opened and closed. Finally, there were two
openings into the haven that seemed to promise permanency; one styled
the Old Harbor, the other the New. The New became at length choked
with sand; the name of Old Harbor was retained.
2	Confusion is sometimes created by this name, there being also a “Sandy
Point ” on the island of Nantucket.584
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
and a little below the middle of the beach, on the W. side, is
Wreck Cove. Near the mouth of the Cove, is Stewart’s Knoll,
— an elevated part of the beach.1 On the western side of this
beach are salt-marshes; but these have been greatly diminished
by the driving of the sand. Still, it is a peculiarity of this,
as of some other localities, that what is lost in one place is
gained in another, new spots being gradually formed. The
passage between Morris’ Island and the main was, in 1752, a
quarter of a mile wide; in 1772 the strait was closed, being
filled with sand ; but this junction with the main being effected,
the beach on the eastern side began to waste, until that which
was an island was found to be nearer the ocean than formerly
was the easterly side of the strait. At that period, there was a
passage from Old Harbor into Stage Harbor, through which ves-
sels might sail, the beach being then an island. Afterward the
beach joined the main land. But, in 1770, again the sea, in a
violent storm, rushed through the beach; and, afterwards, by
degrees, the chasm became again closed. Such are specimens of
the changes wrought by the elements by voluble masses of sand.
Yet another striking instance may be adduced; when the Eng-
lish first settled on the Cape, an island was located off Chatham,
9 m. distant, called Webb’s Island, containing 20 acres covered
with red-savin or cedar, and the inhabitants of Nantucket ob-
tained fire-wood there ; but 160 years ago this island was gone
and a huge rock settled to the bottom of the sea, elevated as
much from the bottom as it was before above the surface of the
island, was all that remained.
On the W. side of Cape Malabarre, in the S. part of the town-
ship, is Stage Harbor, about one mile long and half a mile
wide, — the entrance between Morris’Island and Harding’s Neck
or Beach that runs westerly. Here too is a bar, there being not
more than 8 feet water at the mouth at high tide, whilst within
are 20 feet at low water, the anchorage good, and the harbor
completely land-locked.
1 So called from a person by the name of Stewart, who, more than a cen-
tury ago, kept there a house for the accommodation of seamen making a
harbor on the W. shore of the beach. The house stood near the Point;
but the extension of the point caused the knoll to be, in process of time,
several miles off. We are aware of the difficulties that attend an accurate
description suited to the present hour, of localities so subject to change;
and we fear that our topography of this beach will partake too largely of
the past, to suit in all respects the present. But we have this consolation,
that if the sketch were precisely adapted to the present, winds and tides
would soon make it obsolete.ANNALS OF CHATHAM.
585
Oyster Pond, about three-quarters of a mile long and half a
mile broad, communicates with Stage Harbor by an opening in
which at high tides are 6 feet of water enabling small vessels
to pass.
Mill Cove is N. E. of Stage Harbor, communicating with it
by Mitchell’s River; and connecting with the cove, west of
Tom’s Neck, is Mill Pond. A mile and a half W. of Stage
Harbor, is Cockle-Cove River, communicating with a Salt Pond
north of it. West is Tumblen’s Cove, also connecting with the
Indian Matchapoxet — a salt pond. Still west is Red River,
forming the boundary in part between this town and Harwich.
Besides salt-water ponds, there are in the township not less
than 30 ponds of fresh water, the bottoms of which are gener-
ally sandy, the water soft and pure, and numbers of them sup-
plied with fish. There are no brooks or fresh-water rivers. Ex-
cellent water is obtained from wells, few of which are ever
more than 12 feet deep.
Some of the swamps have been cleared and converted into
pastures and meadows; others have furnished sites for productive
cranberry bogs; and from others still, peat is procured for fuel,
— though most of the town’s supply of fuel comes from abroad,
but little woodland remaining in the township, and that which
survives being chiefly on the line with Harwich. Notwithstand-
ing the discouraging account we have been obliged to give of
agricultural prospects, considerable English hay is cut here and
corn and rye raised, whilst good gardens greet one on every side.
Fish are abundant on the coast, and shell-fish on the shores.
Wild-fowl, if not so plentifully obtained as formerly, still furnish
sport for marksmen.
The town furnishes its full quota of able seamen, not a few
commanding ships in mercantile voyages out of Boston, New
York, etc. Some are employed in coasting and in the sailing of
packets; and numbers are engaged in the fisheries. Formerly
the harbors were better adapted for large craft than at present,1
and many Bank-fishing vessels were owned here.2
1	The harbors are now used almost exclusively for vessels of the smaller
classes.
2	When “ the Bankers,” whose returns were greatly remunerative and
which did much to enrich the town, ceased,—because the business at last
became unprofitable, — the coasting-business began to employ large numbers
of vessels of smaller draught, and some of larger draught, but hailing from
Boston, in the trade and freighting between Boston, New York, Philadel-
phia, Baltimore, Charleston, and other ports.. This also has been generally
VOL. II.	74586
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
The manufacture of salt, once prominent, has declined here as
in other Cape towns, and from similar causes.1
The population, in 1855, was 2560.2 The people are moral,
enterprising, industrious, and compare favorably with those of all
other towns on the Cape. No portion of our country has greater
or more plentiful enjoyments of the comforts of life. A family
really poor is uncommon. This is, in fact, a comparatively
wealthy township. It has also been noted as a healthy location.3
Much attention is paid to education ; in this too the town com-
pares most advantageously with others, — and a natural corollary
is, in intelligence and refinement also.
The public buildings are four large meeting-houses, namely,
Congregational, Baptist, Methodist, and Universalist, ail in the
central part of the town known by the post-office designation
Chatham, and a small and unpretending building for that non-
descript sect glorying in the expressive name of “ Come-outers ”4
in that part of the town designated as West Chatii ^m. The
other general division of the town is known by its post-office
designation North Chatham. Besides the preceding. public
edifices, are the town-house, an academy, two commodious and
handsome buildings for high schools,5 and Atlantic Hall. There
profitable. Some were also engaged in foreign voyages. The fisheries,
still continued in other directions, find here unusual conveniences for their
prosecution. Mackerel fishing, perhaps, takes the lead. Monomoy Point,
which lies about 9 m. distant from the Old Harbor lighthouses, nearly
south, and on the end of which also is a lighthouse, is a place of great in-
dustry in the season for fishing; and the facilities provided there for curing
and packing make it the resort of many engaged in the business from
neighboring towns. There were, in 1837, when the population was much
less than at present, 22 vessels owned here and engaged in the fisheries,
yielding that year 15,500 quintals of codfish, then worth $40,500; and
1200 bis. of mackerel, worth $9,600. The mackerel fisheries have greatly
increased.
1	There were, in 1837, no less than 80 establishments for the manufacture
of salt here, yielding 27,400 bu., valued at $8,220.
2	In 1764, the pop. was 677, with 105 dwellings and 127 families; in 1776,
a pop. of 930, making 165 fam.; in 1800, the pop. was 1351, with 158
dwellings; and in 1850, the pop. was 2437.
3	The salubrity of the climate may be inferred from the fact that, in 1800,
with 1351 inhabitants, there was not sufficient employment to justify the
settlement here of a physician.
4	We certainly mean no disrespect. Their distinctive appellative is self-
chosen, and the peculiarities of their faith we have not seen defined. It is
understood that some worthy people and good members of society are of
this order.
6In 1800, there were five school-houses located in districts arranged for
general accommodation; in 1850, this town had thirteen public schools at-
tended by nearly 800 pupils. The improvements,” so called, of laterANNALS OF CHATHAM.
587
is, in every part of this town, a general aspect of thrift and
home comfort; the private dwellings are neat, convenient, and,
in many instances, indicative of good taste.1
Progress of the Town, etc. — We have seen that, in
1686, Monomoyick was ordered by the Court to fur-
nish its quota of grand-jurors; and that, in 1691, lib-
erty was granted to send a deputy.2 We are not sure
that this town ought not to have taken precedence of
Truro in our historical arrangement, under its original
name ; but, we have judged it expedient to follow the
order of the incorporations of towns as they now ex-
ist.
The first public meeting here, of which there is
any record, was held May 12, 1693, when William
Nickerson was chosen clerk and treasurer; Samuel
Smith, coroner and commissioner; George Godfrey and
Joseph Nickerson, surveyors. At the same meeting,
the clerk and Joseph Harding were app. u agents for
the repairs of Monomoy meeting-house.”3 The rec-
ords, in fact, give but a very imperfect view of the
progress of the settlement for many years previous
and subsequent.
In 1695, mention is made of Hugh Stewart, William
Caiioon, William Gross, and Edward Small, among the
inhabitants; and, in 1696, of Benjamin Phillips, Wil-
liam Eldred, and Lt. Nicholas Eldred, and, the same
year, an order was made that such of the male inhab-
itants of suitable age who are deficient in killing black-
times, have introduced another system called 11 graded” and this has been
adopted with, as is said, manifest advantages. At the previous date,
1800, there was but one meeting-house and but one religious society wor-
shipping in town. There were six wind-mills, a ropewalk, and a tannery.
1 One of the ancient landmarks, the mansion of Richard Sears Esq.,
has lately disappeared, 1863.
2Mr. Gershom Hall was chosen, but “did not attend.”
3 This is an indication of considerable progress in the settlement and
that it was not recent.588
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
birds and crows, “ shall clear the way to go to mill
and to go to Nauset.” The name of Moses Godfrey
first appears on record in 1697 ; and in 1698, that of
Nathaniel Tomlon, as also Joseph Eldred, William
Stewart, and William Covel.
At what time, or under what circumstances, Rev.
Jonathan Vickery was introduced to the ministry here
we are unable to say; but, in 1699, an assessment of
£35 was made, of which the sum of £10 was “for
Mr. Vickery.” Mr. William Nickerson is said to have
exercised the office of religious teacher previous to
the coming of Mr. Vickery, — simply, however, as a
religious man, without assuming ecclesiastical preroga-
tive. Mr. Vickery was selected by the inhabitants,
Oct. 6, “ to go to Boston to desire the Court that we
may be made a township, and that the bounds be
known between us and Harwich.”
In 1700, Feb. 15, “it was agreed to build a new
meeting-house 20 ft. by 32 and 13 ft. in the walls;”
and the matter was committed to Messrs. Wm. Nick-
erson and George Godfrey “ to see that the work be
done; Edward Small to be fore-workman, to get the
timber and frame the house with the help of the in-
habitants.” It was also “ agreed by the inhabitants to
take their turn and their teams and go out with Ed-
ward Small to get the timber, two days each man.”
For the frame-work, £6. 14. 2. was appropriated, and
£1. 10. to buy ammunition. It was agreed, May 20,
with Wm. Eldred,1 to bring boards and planks to line
the meeting-house. The edifice appears to have been
in a state of forwardness for occupancy before many
months; for, Oct. 16, Thos. Atkins was app. “to look
1The manner of writing this name in early records is conclusive of the
presumption that the names Eldred, Eldridge, and Eldredge were originally
the same.ANNALS OS’ CHATHAM.
589
after the meeting-house, sweep, lock, and unlock at ev-
ery service,” and was to receive for his trouble 10 s.
per annum. At the same time £11 was raised to de-
fray town charges.
In 1701, May 21, Lt. Harding was empowered “to
look out for a man to preach ; ” 1 and the selectmen
were instructed “ to buy more finishing and go on to
finish the meeting-house.”
In 1702, the names of John Smith, Daniel Hamil-
ton, and Thomas House (Howes) first appear on the
records; and Feb. 22, Lt. Harding was again author-
ized “ to look out and get a man to preach the word
of God to us on Sabbath days.” Eev. Jonathan Vick-
ery died Ap. 30.2
In 1703, Jan. 4, “ the town did agree with Mr. Ger-
shom Hall to come and dispense the word of God; ”
and £20 was voted as his compensation.3
In 1704, April 18, a meeting was held, when Mr.
Thos. Nickerson was app. “ to procure a man to dis-
pense the word,” etc.; from which it wrould appear
that the engagement of Mr. Hall had been only tem-
porary. Still, Nov. 22, a tax of £10 was ordered “ to
pay Mr. Hall for preaching last summer.”
In 1706, May 22, Mr. Hall was again in request,
and £26 was offered, to be paid him “ for coming and
preaching to us one year;” and, July 1, it was again
“voted to engage Mr. Hall, or, if he cannot be ob-
1	If this entry and date is correct, it would seem that Mr. Vickery’s labors
were concluded, although he was yet living here.
2	What were the circumstances attending the decease of Mr. Vickerv,
we are not informed beyond the fact that he “ was drowned.” His estate
was settled July 15, 1702, and the members of his family mentioned are
Elizabeth, relict, and children Jonathan (eldest), David, Eiisa., Joanna,
Mary, Rebecca, and Sarah.
3Rev. Gersiiom Hall, b. Mar. 5, 1648, s.of Jno. of Y.; hem. Bethiah
Bangs, dr. Edw., who d. Oct. 15, 1G96, and 2d, Martha-------, and had
Sam’l 1669, Edward, Bethia, Mercy, and Jonathan. He d. Oct. 31, 1732,
and was buried in Y.590
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
tained, some college-man to preach.” 1 For “ one half
year’s service, <£15 and diet ” was voted. Mr. Latimer
was finally engaged to preach, “ from the 1st. Sab. in
Oct.” Laws were this year enacted by the town to
regulate the keeping of sheep.
In 1707, Mar. 13, the town engaged Mr. John Lati-
mer2 to preach one year, at a salary of <£48. Mention
is this year made in the records, of Messrs. Roland
Paddock, Rt. Nickerson, and Caleb Lombard.
In 1708, Ap. 27, the inhabitants made choice of
Capt. Harding and Messrs. Thos. and John Atkins, “ to
bargain and buy or procure a settlement for the min-
istry, of our proprietors.” It was “ agreed, June 23,
to settle Mr. Latimer; ” and " a bargain was proposed
with Mr. Jonathan Vickery,3 to buy land of said Vick-
ery for the use of the ministry.” Mr. Latimer’s salary
was now fixed at £60 ; and it was agreed that “ the
houses that stand on Mr. Vickery’s land shall be made
favorable and comfortable for him, — he to have them
so long as he is our minister.” It was finally conclud-
ed, Sept. 3, “ to buy Mr. Vickery’s house and land and
give to Mr. Latimer provided he do continue in preach-
ing the word of God unto us the full term of life, in-
firmities of age, etc. excepted.” It was also “ voted
that £54 be appropriated to buy boards, clapboards
and shingles for his house; and that, when those
southern side persons shall be added to us, there be
added to his salary <£10 yearly.”4
1	The presumption is that hitherto men had been employed who had not
received that public education answerable to the requirement of law, for
ministers.
2	Rev. Mr. Latimer was s. of Jno. of Wethersfield, whose wife was
Mary. He grad. H. C. 1703.
3	This Mr. Vickery was eldest son of the former minister. Another son
was David. Isaac, who m. Rebecca Bangs Mar. 3, 1 729-30, was prob. a
grandson of the minister, and had Tiino. Nov. 9, 1729; Benj. Sept. 24,
1731 ; Joseph Mar. 19, 1733-4; Jona. May 1, 1736; David Aug. 18,1738;
and Abner Aug. 26, 1740.
4	This probably refers to what was a portion of the S. part of Harwich.ANNALS OF CHATHAM.
591
In 1709, Aug. 1, the inhabitants were again on “ the
look-out ” for a minister ;1 and, Oct. 20, provision was
made “ to entertain Mr. Cotton of Sandwich.”2
In 1710, it was “voted to hear Mr. Short 3 also
to buy a farm for the ministry. Mr. Short was after-
wards, Ap. 17, invited to settle, and a salary of £45
was offered ; and payment was made at the same time
for labors already performed, namely, 15s. per day,
for seven Sabbaths’ preaching. Rev. Mr. Russell, from
Barnstable, and Rev. Benj. Allen were here after Mr.
Short; but probably only for a few days, and from
courtesy. Mr. Richard Sears’ name appears on the
records at this date, he having been drawn grandjury-
man; and that of Mr. Daniel Sears, soon after, as
town-clerk.4
1	The precise time of the departure of Mr. Latimer does not appear.
His stay here, though short, seems to have been sufficient for the contrac-
tion of some friendships ; for, in his will, recorded in Suffolk, and dated Nov.
27, 1713, among other bequests are several to friends on the Cape. His
inventory was rendered Ap. 12, 1716.
2	Mr. Cotton’s visit was probably made in answer to application for as-
sistance and advice.
3This was prob. Mr. Matthew Short, who grad. II. C. 1707.
4For Sears’ gen., see Yol. I. 13 7, where it will be seen that the grand-
father of the above, Dan’l and Rirh’d, was Richard (Sayer or) Sears,
the Pilgrim, who, son of the second John Bourchier Sayer and Marie
L. Egmond, and b. 1590, came over in 1630, and m. Dorothy Thacher
1632, and settled in that part of Yarm. now E. Dennis. In 1662 he was a
member of the Plym. Colony Court, and d. in Y. 1676, leaving sons Knyvet
b. 1635 ; Paul b. 1637 ; Silas b. 1639; and a dr. Deborah, who m. Zacha-
riah Paddock. Knyvet, eldest son, b. 1635, m. Elisa. Dymoke, and had
sons Daniel b. 1682 ; and Richard b. 1684. These were left orphans when
very young. Their father going a second time to Eng., in 1686, for the
recovery of family estates, died there the same year at the residence of his
relative, Catharine Harris, (subsequently Baroness Berners), dr. of Sir
John Knyvet. His children were adopted by his bro. Paul, who inherited
most of his father’s property in Yarm. and Dennis. These sons, by the aid
of legacies received from their uncle’s estate, made purchases in “ Mono-
moy, now called Chatham,” and removed here in 1707. It may be perti-
nent to quote from Burke’s ‘Vicissitudes of Families’ the result of
his own investigations touching this family. He says: “I must now for a
moment wander back some centuries earlier than these Pilgrim Fathers and
take my readers to the famous county of Kent. Near the mouth of the
Medway and the an«ient city of Rochester, at beginning of the fourteenth
century, dwelt one Adam Sayer, lord of the manor of Hougham, a country
gentleman of fair estate and high character. He left wide spreading de-
scendants. One was returned to Parliament by the town of Sandwich in592
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1711, Feb. 23, the town was again on “ the look-
out for a minister.” It was voted, Ap. 23, “ to give
the reign of Henry VI., and another was created a Banneret for his gal-
lantry at Stoke. A third crossed the Thames into Essex and founded a
family which became possessed of good property at Colchester. Of that
town, John Sayer, a man of wealth and dignity, was alderman toward the
close of the 15th century. He d. 1509, and a mural brass in St. Peter’s
Church records his name and honors. His grandson, young Richard Sayer,
is described as a youth of florid face and sanguine temperament, who grew
up the elder of two brothers and heir to a large estate ; but unfortunately
for his worldly peace and prosperity, he had early imbibed strong religious sen-
timents, and, during the period of animosities and persecutions under Henry
VIII., became a zealous partisan on the side opposed to his own family and rel-
atives. The result was a total alienation from them, disinheritance, and flight.
Richard Sayer’s wife, Ann Bouchier, dr. of Edmund Knyvet Esq., of the an-
cient family of Ashwelthorpe in Norfolk, incurred the lasting displeasure of
the Knyvets because she clung faithfully to her husband in his adversity,
and the name was in consequence erased from all the family pedigrees and
gapers. Her descent, in the female line, was from Sir John Bourchier, Lord
►erners, Knight of the Garter, 4th son of William, Earl of Ewe, by Ann
Plantagenet, his wife, grand-daughter of King Edward III. Ann Bouchier
Knyvet, whose lot seems to have been a hard one, nobly and cheerfully
borne, was the devoted companion of Richard Sayer in all the sufferings
he underwent for conscience’ sake. She escaped with him to Amsterdam,
and tended his death-bed there, 1540. In consequence of their flight, the
husband’s younger brother secured for himself possession of the patrimonial
inheritance, and founded two families of Sayer; the elder, seated at Bour-
chier’s Hall, ended in an heiress, who m. the learned Sir John Marsham,
Bart. The younger is still resident, I believe, at Pett, near Charing, in
Kent. The only son of Richard and Ann Sayer was John Bouchier Sayer,
a man of bold and daring disposition, who, instead of adopting measures to
recover his ancestral rights, sought adventure under his father-in-law, Sir
John Hawkins, the famous Admiral, and accompanied him in many of his
voyages. He died in Holland, leaving four sons, of whom the eldest, his
father’s namesake, acquired a large fortune on marriage with Marie L. Van
Egmont of the family of Count Egmont, the victim of the Duke of Alva;
and with the money thus obtained with his wife, Sayer purchased property
in the neighborhood of that to which he believed himself entitled; but his
efforts for its recovery were resisted by his kinsmen in England, and an
open rupture was the result.-’'* John Bouchier Saver d. in 1G29, leaving two
sons, of whom the elder was Richard Saver, or Sears, who joined the com-
pany at Leyden.” .	.	.	“ His father died in 1G29 ; he then came into
possession of his paternal inheritance, and in 1G30 accompanied the last ex-
pedition which carried out from Leyden the remnant of the Scrooby con-
gregation ; landed at Plymouth, May 8, and in 1G43 removed thence to a
more favored spot knowm by the Indians as Sursuit and Mattakeese, the
sites of the present E. Dennis and Yarmouth.” .	.	.	“ Knyvet, eldest
son, unlike his father, had a strong faith that the family lands in Eng. might
be recovered, and set out for the old country ” to assert his claim. The re-
sult has been told. “ From a document filed in the Chapter House, West-
minster Abbey, it appears that the contested manors were transferred, by
legal fiction, to Sir John Marsham, only son of Sir John and Esther, dr. of
John Geo. Sayer, who d. 15 77. This Esther was assumed to have been
sole heir upon the failure of the male line in Eng.; and the high position
which the American branch of the family was entitled to hold here was
abandoned forever.”ANNALS OF CHATHAM.
593
Mr. Hugh Adams £50 salary and £100 settlement, to
aid in preaching the Gospel here; ” also lands and
buildings.1 Mr. Adams appears to have hesitated; for
June 20, the town was again on “ the look-out.” But,
June 27, negotiations with Mr. Adams were renewed,
— the town voting to “ grant him, our reverend min-
ister, right to cut wood, fencing, and timber, and of
fencing creatures in the undivided lands; ” and a sal-
ary of £52 per annum with prospective increase.
The town, at the same meeting, resolved “that the
meeting-house be finished.” Mr. Adams accepted on
conditions which he proposed in writing, namely : —
“ 1. That I be ordained your pastor. 2. That if any
difference arise betwixt us to such a degree that we
must part, — which we should both humbly pray there
may never be, — and that I have my dismissal from my
pastoral charge ; then, if it be judged by the reverend
ministers that the people only are to blame, the settle-
ment shall belong to me and my heirs forever .	.	.
and if they shall judge that we are equally to blame,
the £100 settlement shall be proportionably divided
between us ; or, if they shall say that my removal is
merely from some other unavoidable compulsion with-
out any fault on either side, then the said £100 shall
be equally divided; and if they shall say that I only
am to blame, the whole shall be repaid.”
Signed,	Hugh Adams.
Mr. Adams, at the same time, recommended “ that
the Proprietors will endeavor as soon as possible to
make up the matter of their controversy, in peace and
love.” To the conditions proposed by Mr. Adams,
“ the town agreed.”2 Leave was granted by the town,
^ev. Mr. Adams grad. H. C. 1697.
2 It may naturally be inferred from tlie preceding that difficulties tending
YOL. II.	75594
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Mar. 28, to Mr. Daniel Greenleaf of Yarmouth, “ to
purchase a piece of land in the town of Monnamoy
for the fishery, — his land, boats, and men to be free
from rates.”
In 1712, Jan., the following appears on the town
records:—
“ Protection. — Boston, Jan. 26, 1711-12. Upon
application made to me, setting forth the danger that
the village of Monamoy is in, of the French priva-
teers, and the weakness of the inhabitants to defend
themselves, being so few, I do hereby decree, order,
and direct that no men of the foot-company of the
place be taken by impress for any service other than
their own village aforesaid without my especial orders,
under my hand, for so doing. This to continue until
further order.”	Signed,	J. Dudley.
“ To the Hon. Col. Otis, Barnstable.”
The name of John Ellis first appears on record at
this time. “ The meadows at Monamoy at Machapox-
set,” were bounded by Messrs. Thos. Lewis, Beriah
Broadbrooks, Jas. Eldredge, and others. An order
was made requiring that “ none shall shear sheep on
the commons before the last Monday in May annually,
under a penalty of £20; ” also “ for the payment to
Mr. Adams of his charge for managing the difficulties
between Harwich and Monamoy; ” also “ that every
married man shall deliver to Mr. Adams a load of
wood, or forfeit 5 s.”
Monamoy was incorporated a township by the name
of Chatham, this year, June 11.
In 1715, Mar. 13, a demand was made “of what
to divisions and to the hindrance of the ministry had existed here for some
time, and the fact would suggest the cause of the frequent changes occur-ANNALS OF CHATHAM.
595
Mr. Hugh Adams owes the town; ” and, at another
town meeting, the following proceedings were had :—
“ Forasmuch as 5 out of 7 men, the members of
the church and inhabitants of Chatham, there being
no more belonging to the town, did, Ap. 11, move the
selectmen of sd. town to call a town-meeting, because
Mr. Adams, their minister, did so imprudently, un-
steadily, and contentiously behave himself in many
respects contrary to what they say he professed to
some of them, — insomuch that they could not in
conscience join with him, nor sit any longer under
his ministry : because Mr. Adams, they say, did profess
that if the selectmen would call a town-meeting, and
the major vote was for his leaving, he would do so,—
for he had a better call elsewhere: Now, at a town-
meeting orderly warned and attended, this 13th day
of June, 1715, it is voted by the votable inhabitants
not to employ Mr. Adams in the work of the ministry
any longer. Attest:	Daniel Sears, town clerk.”
In 1717, Feb. 25, it was “ voted to look out for
another minister.” They are only isolated and vague
items to be gathered from the records, that furnish
any light on the state of ecclesiastical affairs, or the
progress of the town. When, or under what circum-
stances, except as above related, Mr. Adams closed his
ministry here, is not within our knowledge.1 Rev.
Mr. Hall was probably soon again officiating here.
In 1718, it was voted “ to raise the remainder of
Mr. Halfs salary; ” also “ to apply to Mr. Lord to come
for one half-year.” It was also “ agreed to invite Mr.
Hall to tarry three Sabbaths longer ; ant?, in the mean-
while, send an agent to Barnstable to invite Mr. Lord
1 Rev. Hugh Adams had by his w. Susanna, a dr. Elizabeth, b. here
May 5, 1713.596
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
to come.”1 It was proposed “to give Mr. Lord £60
per annum, and to buy a house and four acres for the
use of the ministry.” Mr. Richard Sears died this
year, ae. M?
In 1719, Mar. 2, an invitation was extended to Mr.
Lord, and £80 salary and the use of ministerial house3
and land voted. Rev. Joseph Lord accepted the invi-
tation, June 3.
In 1720, Mar. 20, Mr. Samuel Stewart was engaged as
the schoolmaster; and, June 15, Mr. Lord was ordained,
himself preaching the ordination sermon. It was voted,
Sept. 21, to pay Richard Knowles’s bill “for keeping
the ministers and messengers who came to install Mr.
Lord.”4
In 1720, Mr. George Shaw d. May 2.5
1	Rev. Mr. Lord was from Charlestown, and grad. H. C. 1691. He m.
Abigail Hinckley, dr. Gov. H. June 2, 1698. He preached some time in
S. Carolina. A letter from the pastor of the church at Barnstable, ad-
dressed, Oct. 12, 1698, to Mr. Lord as pastor of the church at Dorchester,
S. C., recommends Mrs. Abigail Lord to that church which had been formed
in 1695 in Dorchester, Mass., with the design of removing to S. Carolina,
he being the pastor. They arrived there Dec. 20, and commenced a settle-
ment on Ashley River, about 18 m. from Charleston, which they called
Dorchester. “ The sacrament of the Lord’s supper was first administered
by him there, Feb. 2, 1696. Rev. Hugh Fisher succeeded him.” Mr.
Lord had now returned to the mansion of his father-in-law, and hence the
visit of the agent to Barnstable.
2	See p. 591. Mr. Richard Sears, b. 1684, s. of Knyvet, m. Hope
Howes 1706. He left one son, Paul, who removed to Maine.
3	June 7, 1720, the town raised £170 to build the house for Mr. Lord.
4	Clark’s Cong. Chs. says, “ The church in Chatham was probably organ-
ized June 15, 1720, when Rev. Joseph Lord was ordained.” Of the cor-
rectness of this, we have no other intimation. The Chatham town records
also speak of Mr. Lord’s ordination; but this error is common, a distinction
not being always made between ordination and installation. He was or-
dained, as we have seen, at Dorchester at the time when the emigrating
church was organized. The same records, it will be seen, speak of the previous
existence of a church in Chatham ; it may, possibly, have become defunct,
and a new organization may have been effected at the time of Mr. L.’s in-
stallation ; but of this, as we have said, we find no evidence. We regret
that we have been unable to get access to the diary of Mr. Lord, — said to
be beautifully penned. It is said to be in the hands of a person in a neigh-
boring town who has not accorded to us the courtesy.
6Mr. Shaw m. Constance Doane Jan. 8, 1690; and had Elkanah Oct.
7, 1691; Rebecca 1693; Geo. Dec. 29, 1695; Hannah 1698 ; John Oct. 6,
1700; and Jona. Feb. 17, 1703. There was a Thos. Shaw in Be. whoseANNALS OF CHATHAM.
597
In 1721, Jan. 25, Mr. Lord’s house was ordered “ to be built,
21 ft. by 27, and 15 ft. in the walls, with aleanture 12 ft. by 6, of
8 ft. wall; cedar or oak sills; 2 chimneys, and 1 chamber chim-
ney ; and cellar.”1 It was voted, Oct. 2, to receive this town’s
part of the £20,000 loan. Daniel Legg was this year school-
master.
In 1722, May 4, the town petitioned the Gen. Court “to con-
sider the low estate of the town, and exempt it from fine for not
keeping a schoolmaster, but keeping only a schooldarae.”
In 1723, it was “voted to receive the South part of Harwich.”2
Mr. Legg was again schoolmaster, Ap. 1; and June 26, Mr. John
Covel was engaged at £30 per quarter.3 Many removals from
the town occurred about this time.
In 1724, Feb. 11, Mr. Samuel Stewart4 was again employed to
teach the school, at £38 per quarter.
In 1728, Mr. Bea4 was schoolmaster.
In 1729, we have intimation, only, of the erection of a new
meeting-house; it was voted, Aug. 18, “there shall not be any
pews made in our new meeting-house, save one for the minister’s
wife.”
In 1732, Mr. John Crowell was the schoolmaster. The
vexed question of the liabilities of assessors under existing laws,
came up; and the town “ chose Mr. Paul Crowell to go to
Barnstable to see whether those that call themselves Quakers are
clear of ministerial taxes.”6
wife makes bequests “ to kinsman Rt. Parker, and to Jno. Crocker, Joshua
Lumbert, elder Jno. Chipman, Jas. Hamblin Jr.” and others.
>It is difficult to determine what were finally the dimensions of this house:
another entry in the records, says, “ a house 21 ft. by 17, with a leanture
27 ft. by 12, 15 ft. high.”
2 A portion of the S. part of Harwich was set off to this town.
fcMr. John Covel had by his w. Thankful, Elisa. July 9, 1722. The
name was early here, Nathaniel being son-in-law to Mr. William Nick-
erson 1667. Joseph, by his w. Lydia, had Lydia July 12, 1701.
4 Samuel Stewart m. Deborah Lothrop Nov. 2, 1721, and had Wm,
Jan. 11, 1725-6. There were others of the name early here, namely,
Michael, who, by w. Mary, had Bethia Sept. 21, 1704; and Patience
1713. Joseph, by w. Mary, had Temperance 1713; James 1722 ; Mary
1724; Abigail 1726 ; Sam’l 172 7 ; Ellice 1729 ; and Mercy 1735.
6 This is a family name of distinction ; but we have been unable to ob-
tain its early history.
6Mr. John Crowell of Nobscusset, b. 1662, who d. Oct. 11, 1728, m.
Bethiah Sears, dr. Paul, May 27, 1684, and had Joseph Mar. 20, 1685;
Paul Ap. 20, 1687, who removed to C.; Bethia 1689, who m. Joseph At-
wood 1710; Mehit. 1691, who m. John Ryder 1713; John 1693, who re-
moved to F.; Deborah 1695 ; Christopher 1698 ; Elisa. 1700, who m. Benj.598
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1734, the bounds between this town and Harwich were set-
tled. Mr. Thomas Doane was schoolmaster.
In 1737, Mr. John Hallet and Mr. John Collins1 were
employed as schoolmasters.
In 1738, Mr. David Nickerson was the schoolmaster.
In 1739, other views prevailed in regard to the seating of per-
sons in the meeting-house. The democratic principle of having
seats only, “ except for the minister’s wife,” in other respects the
only distinction being position in society and age, in the assign-
ment of places, gave way to different impulses. A com. was app.
by the town, “ to set out joew ground, and to determine who shall
have the first choice,” as also the order of choice. The aggre-
gate of prices fixed was £100.
In 1742, the sales of pews were as follows: To Messrs.
Thomas Doane, for £12.10
John Collins,	10.
Ens. William Nickerson, 8.
John Covel,	8.
John Eldridge,2 for	£11.10
Daniel Sears,	9.14
Daniel Howes,	8.10
Ebenezer Eldredge,2	5.
Homer 1721; and Mary 1704. Joseph, b. 1685, m. Bxthsheba Hall, Oct.
27, 1709, and had Joseph Aug. 20, 1713. Paul Esq. b. Ap. 20, 1687, m.
Elisa. Hallett Oct. 21, 1714, anl 2:1, Margery Hall Feb. 15, 1724-5. His
will, May 20, 1762, pr. Oct. 22, 1765, mentions wid. Margery and sons and
drs. namely, Paul, Jona., David, Elisa, who m. Doane, and Abigail who
m. Collins. John, b. 1693, m. Keziah Eldridge Oct. 23, 1718 and had
Deborah 1719, who m. John Sears 1738; Mehit. 1721, who m. Zech. Sears
1742 and went to Windham, Ct.; John Jan. 9, 1723-4, who m. Mary
Howes 1747; Bethia 1 727 ; Kezia, Sam’l, and Sam’l, who all d. y.; Anne
1738 ; and Mary 1739. Paul of C. m. twice. By Rebecca, who d. Dec.
30, 1746, he had Thos. Oct. 27, 1739; Betsy 1740; Rebecca Oct. 18, 1742
in C.; Paul Mar. 18, 1744-5 in C.; and, by Reliance, he had Eleazar
Aug. 7, 1749, d. inf.; Eleazar Feb. 15, 1750-1; Joseph Ap. 27, 1752;
Benj. Feb. 19, 1754 ; Abigail 1756; Zadoc Aug. 1, 1757; Reliance 1759;
Patience 1761; Hallett June 27, 1763; Ezra May 28, 1765; and Paul
June 4, 1768. Jonathan m. Ann Nickerson of C. July 13, 1738, and
had Sam’l Mar. 16, 1742-3, who removed to Ct., and from whom is de-
scended Hon. John, sometime Mem. Cong.; Solo. 1745; Zenas May 10,
1747 ; Anne 1748; Achsah 1751 ; John Nov. 22, 1753; and Eiisa. 1756.
xMr. John Collins, b. Dec. 18, 16 74, m. Hannah Doane and had Solo.
Sam’l, John, Joseph, and David. Solomon, by w. Eunice, had Hannah
June 5, 1728; Reuben June 10, 1730, who m. Zerviah Ryder July 11,
1751; Enoch Dec. 2, 1731; Azuba June 10, 1733; Cyreneus June 26,
1735 ; Solo. Mar. 23, 1735 ; Solo. Mar. 23, 1737-8; and Eunice June 23,
1742. Joseph, by w. Abig’l, had Ruth, Oct. 21, 1739; Joseph, Nov. 5,
1741; Benaijah Oct. 29, 1743; and Stephen Oct. 31, 1745.
2Mr. John Eldridge m. Doane Sept. 26, 1728. Ebenezer had, by
w. Deliverance, 12 children, namely, John Mar. 15,1743; Stephen May
12, 1746; Elnathan Mar. 7, 1747; Sarah 1750; Eben’r Sept. 22, 1752;
Desire 1754; Jona. Sept. 2, 1756; Elisa. 1758; Heber Feb. 7, 1760; Be-
thia 1762 ; Mercy 1765 ; and Ensign Mar. 9, 1766. Barnabas of Y., byANNALS OF CHATHAM.
599
John Nickerson, for
Joshua Atkins,
William Nickerson, 4th,
£4. Meziah Harding,1 for
5. Jonathan Godfrey,
4.
£7.
7.
In 1746, Messrs. Richard Sears and David Sears, sons of
Mr. Daniel Sears of this town, having both gone to England, fell
at the battle of Culloden, Ap. 27.2
In 1747, Mr. Richard Mayo was the schoolmaster.
In 1748, Rev. Joseph Lord died, June 6 ;3 and, June
w. Patience had John Sept. 7, 1664; Gideon Nov. 9, 1666; Betty 1668;
Barn’s Feb. 24, 1671; Sarah, 1672; Reuben Nov. 1, 1673; Joseph Sept.
10, 1675; Anne May 27, 1677 ; Patience 1679; and Asa Nov. 27, 1682.
Gideon had Birnabas, Reuben, John, Joseph who set. in Norwalk, Ct.,
and Gideon. Barnabas had, by w. Mary, Edward Sept. 9, 1736; Asahel
Oct. 27, 1739, d. 1743 ; Barnabas Oct. 7, 1743; Zenas Ap. 11, 1746; Ma-
rah 1750; Asahel Aug. 12, 1753, d. 1755 ; Asahel Mar. 6, 1755; and Levi
Nov. 21, 1756, d. inf. If we go back, we find Nicholas b. Aug. 18, 1650
s. of Robt., d. Ap. 30, 1702. He was the first rep. under the charter.
By w. Elisa, he had James, John, Nicholas, Mary, Elisa., Martha, and De-
sire. It will be understood that in classing this family under the name of
Eldridge, or Eldredge, we are governed by the conclusions of that veteran
genealogist, lion. Mr. Savage, who decides that these names and Eldred
were originally the same. Samuel of Y. d. Jan. 3, 1705-6; he had a s.
Samuel, a soldier under age, 1704. Jehoshaphat, by w. Elisa., had Ed-
ward, July 17, 1702. William, of II. m. Thankful Crow, of Y., Mar. 20,
1718, and had Reuben Oct. 19, 1720, who m. Jerusha Chase 1744; Re-
becca 1723; Sarah 1725; Thankful 1728; Bridget 1730; Wm. Jan. 11,
1732; Isaac Sept. 30, 1734; and Jeremiah Ap. 29, 1738. Hezekiah m.
Mary Doane May 30, 1759. Joseph m. Martha Sears Mar. 22, 1750, and
had Seth Mar. 9, 1753. Solomon m. Duty Nickerson Ap. 25, 1752.
William Jr. m. Deborah Nickerson Nov. 8, 1704.
1	Meziah Harding had, by his w. Betliia, Sylv’s May 18,1723 ; Joseph
Feb. 21, 1725; Seth Jan. 16, 1727; Desire 1729; Bethia 1731; Grace
1733; Sami Mar. 29, 1736; Thos. Ap. 29, 1738; and Prince July 20,
1740. Sylvanus had, by his w. Kezia, Mary 1744 ; John Feb. 1, 1746 ;
Elisa. 1749; Sylv’s July 25, 1751; Seth Ap. 10, 1752. Joseph m. Han-
nah Howes Sept. 17, 1747, and had Amos Mar. 8, 1749. Seth m. Abigail
Doane Ap. 29, 1753. Samuel m. Sarah Harding Dec. 29,1755. Thomas
m. Fanny Howes Dec. 15,1760. Prince m. Jedida Young Feb. 4, 1760-1,
and had Olive 1761; Zepery 1763 ; Jedida 1765; Enoch Nov. 10, 1767;
and Prince Feb. 21, 1770. Amos m. Mehit. Taylor Oct. 17, 1777, and
had Joseph Sept. 4, 1780; Mehit. Nov. 22, 1784, by w. Bethia; Amos Oct.
16, 1790; and Nehemiah Sept. 27, 1797.
2	It has been conjectured that they went to Eng. “ on the luckless errand
of their grandfather Knyvet,” to recover the patrimonial estates, and thus
suffered u the hereditary misfortunes of their English ancestry.” “ They
arrived at the time when Charles (Edward Stuart) was invading England.
They joined the army as officers,” and both fell in that sanguinary engage-
ment.
3	Rev. Mr. Lord’s ministry here was distinguished. The half-way covenant
was practised, and children of the church were held subject to discipline.
He admitted to the church 143 members, and baptized 492 persons. We
may here advert to a remarkable fact, namely, that notwithstanding the600
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
22, £310 of Mr. Lord’s salary still due was paid to his
executors. The town was thus again “ on the look-
out ” for a minister; but the prevailing custom of the
neighboring clergy to take their turn in preaching for
a parish whose minister had ceased by reason of death
rendered this necessity for a time inoperative. Aug.
31, the town voted “ to pay Mr. John Collins for enter-
taining ministers who have come, or may come, to
preach.” Rev. Stephen Emery was called to the pasto-
rate made vacant by the decease of Rev. Mr. Lord,
who, sipereminet omnes, had occupied his ministry here
28 years; and to Mr. Emery was “voted £480, old
tenor, reckoning silver at 52s. per oz.; or £400, and
16 cords of oak wood and 20 of pine to be carted
annually to his door ; and a settlement of £800, old
tenor.” The town petitioned the Gen. Court for abate-
ment of its State tax; and paid the entertainer’s ac-
count “ for keeping Mr. Webb and other ministers who
have preached here.” Mr. Daniel Smith was this year
the schoolmaster.
In 1749, May 17, Rev. Mr. Emery was installed.1
Cape towns were, in early times, the fast friends and efficient supporters of
“ the College,” and, notwithstanding such men as Lothrop, Leveridge,
Thornton, Walley, Treat, the Cottons, Lewis, Lord, the Stones, Williams,
the Shaws, Burr, Simpkins, Lincoln, Goodwin, and others — compared
with whom many who have borne the title of D. D. were as theological
pigmies in the presence of great divines — have exercised their ministry
on this peninsula, to say nothing of distinguished civilians, the judgment of
the government of “ the College ” in regard to all here, without a solitary
exception, has been of so flattering a character it has seemed to say
“ These men need not the poor honors our academic charter authorizes us
to bestow.” Collegiate honors have fallen upon many who had removed
hence, but there was never an honorary degree conferred on a Cape Cod
resident! We presume there is no parallel. This reminds us of a signifi-
cant passage, in 8th Yol. Hist. Coll., 1802, p. 282, Memoir of Rev. Peter
Thacher, D. D. : “ The University of Edinburgh conferred upon him the
degree of Doctor of Divinity. This of itself is no special evidence of
learning. Some of our greatest divines, unconnected with friends of wealth,
cannot look abroad for honors which their merit claims. The title has lost
its professional distinction in this country.”
1Rev. Mr. Emery was b. in Exeter, N. H., and grad. H. C. 1730. He
had been settled in Nottingham, N. H.ANNALS OF CHATHAM.
601
Lt William Nickerson died this year; also Mr. Caleb
Nickerson.
In 1753, Mr. Benjamin Beakse died, se. 43.1
In 1755, a town-meeting was called to act upon a
question that was not of infrequent occurrence in other
towns in New England at the time, — “ to see if cer-
tain persons, Eben. Nickerson and others, called separat-
ists, or new lights, shall be exempt from ministerial
rates.” The question was decided in the negative.
No representative to the Gen. Court was chosen, May
20, this year, and the excuse assigned was “the diffi-
cult circumstances this town is in by reason of sickness
prevailing the year past.”
In 1756, Mr. Daniel Sears, one of the early settlers
and a prominent citizen, died, se. 74;2 and Mr. James
Eldredge died July 19, 1757.3
In 1758, Mar. 18, the certificate of Richard Chase, elder, and
Seth Clark and William Smith, members, of the Anabaptist
church of Yarmouth and Harwich, alleging that Nathaniel
Bassett of this town is of their persuasion, was made subject of
record.
In 1760, Mr. Thomas Paine was engaged as schoolmaster;
and in 1761, Mr. Daniel Sears died, as. 49.4
*Mr. Benj. Bearse, b. Mar. 26, 1710, s. of Benj. of Be., was ancestor
of the families of the name here. He m. Jane Godfrey, dr. Moses, and
had sons Jona., George, Benj., David, and Moses; and drs. Hannah, Sarah
Martha, and Elisa, who m. Thos. Eldridge.
2 Mr. Daniel Sears, b. 1682, s. of Knvvet, was but 4 vrs. old when his
father died, and when he and his brother were received as adopted children
into the family of his uncle Paul. He m. Sarah, dr. of Mr. J. Hawes of
Y., and had Rebecca 1710; Daniel 1712 ; Sarah 1714; Mercy 1716 ; Rich-
ard 1718; David 1720; and Deborah 1722. Richard and David fell, as
we have mentioned, at the battle of Culloden, Ap. 27, 1746.
3Mr. James Eldridge had, by w. Ruth, Zeph. Dec. 2, 1733, who m.
Phebe Eldridge Nov. 29, 1752 ; Rebecca 1735 ; Ruth 1 73 7 ; Abner Oct. 11,
1738, who m. Sarah Eldridge Ap. 19, 1762 ; and James Ap. 8, 1742, who
m. Hannah Collins Mar. 2, 1771.
4Mr. Daniel Sears, b. 1712, s. of Daniel, and g. s. of Knyvet, m. Fear
Freeman, dr. of Benj. of H., and inherited his father’s estates in this town.
Their children were Sarah b. 1747; Richard 1749; David 1752; Fear
1754, who m. Wm. Colman, of Boston, and d. 1797 ; and Daniel 1757.
Mr. Sears was an eminent townsman. David, b. Aug. 12, 1752, removed
VOL. ii.	76602
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1762, Mr. James Ryder was the schoolmaster, his salary
being £210, old tenor.
In 1768, Sept. 13, the letter sent to the towns by
the town of Boston, was the occasion of a public meet-
ing. The letter was “considered,” its contents “de-
bated,” and the result was “ the town declined sending
to the proposed Convention on account of our circum-
stances, though approving of the object .”
In 1769, many families removed from town.
In 1771, a meeting was called to devise and adopt measures
“ to prevent the destruction of clams by strangers.”
In 1772, in Nov., a distressing and mysterious occurrence de-
prived the town of several respected citizens, of whom Capt.
Thomas Nickerson, and Mr. Elisha Newcomb, and a boy
named William Kent Jr. are particularly mentioned, — these,
with another, doubtless murdered upon the high seas.
to Boston, 1770 ; m. Ann Winthrop, and d. Oct. 23, 1816, having issue an
only child, David of Boston, b. Sept. 8, 1787, who m. Miriam Clarke, dr.
of Jonathan Mason of Boston, and has issue: 1. David Mason d. young in
Falmouth, E:ig.; 2. Anne Powell Mison, who m. Wm. Amory and has is-
sue, Wm., Harriet, Ellen, Charles, Walter, and Fred. Inman; 3. Harriet
E., who m. G. Caspar Crowninshield, who d. and left issue, Caspar, Fanny,
and Cora; 4. Cordelia M., who d. unmarried ; 5. Ellen, who m. Gonzalve
G. d’ Hauteville, and d. Nov. 30, 1862, leaving issue Frederick S.; 6. Da-
vid who in. Emily Esther Hoyt, and has issue Emily Esther, David, Miriam,
and Henry Francis; 7. Frederick Richard, who m. Marian Shaw and has
issue Marian, Frederick Richard, and m. 2d, Albertina Shelton, and has is-
sue Tina and Richard Dudley; 8. Winthrop, who d. young; 9. Grace
Winthrop who m. Wm. C. Rives Jr., and has issue, William Cabel, Alice,
and Arthur Landon; and 10. Knyvet Winthrop, who m. Mary Peabody,
and has issue Mary Peabody. We have been thus minute in our record,
for, whilst the descendants of Knyvet Sears have spread from this town,
Hon. David Sears of Boston and sons are the only representatives of
the name of Sears, of the Knyvet branch of the line of the Pilgrim Richard
that now survive, the male line of Richard of Chatham having become
extinct. A beautiful memorial of Knyvet Sears stands on the east wall of
St. Peter’s Church in Colchester, Eng. Filial reverence has erected
costly monuments to the memory of the pilgrim ancestor, in the cemetery
at Yarmouth; also to the memory of Daniel, son of Knyvet; Daniel II.,
son of Daniel; and David I., s. of Daniel II., in the burial place in Chat-
ham— inscribed “To their Pilgrim Fathers, a grateful poster-
ity.”
^ho. account of this unhappy event, as given in the Mass. Gazette,
Nov. 23, 17 72, may be familiar to only a few readers. It appears that on
the 15th of that month, Capt. Joseph Doane, sailing from Chatham, saw
back of the Cape a schooner with signals of distress; and boarding her he
found “ one man only on board much frightened,” and learned Irom himANNALS OF CHATHAM.
603
A committee consisting of Messrs. James Covel,
Paul Sears, Seth Smith, John Hawes, Barnabas El-
dridge, Sam’l Collins, Joseph Atwood, Thos. Hamilton,
and Richard Sears, were appointed, Dec. 17, “ to con-
sider the grievances laid before the town by the town
of Boston.” The com. were unanimous in their report;
the town were agreed, and a patriotic reply to the
Boston com. was adopted. A com. of correspondence
was also appointed.
In 1773, it was voted “ to repair the meeting-house and enlarge
it; the men’s and women’s seats to front the pulpit after enlarg-
ing, and to take up some hindermost seats and substitute pews.”
A com. of correspondence app. June 22, was Messrs. James Co-
vel, Seth Smith, Samuel Collins, Joseph Atwood, and Thomas
Hamilton.1
that the day before, “ the said schooner, Thos. Nickerson, master, had sailed
from Boston for Chatham ; and that at 2 o’clock the next morning a top-sail
schooner overhauled them, when he,” — the man who gave the account, —
“fearing he might be impressed, slung himself by a rope and let himself
over the stern, when four boats with armed men came, and the master,
mate, and one man, were murdered, and a boy carried away; — that he
heard talk of burning the vessel, bnt she was left to drive out to sea, sails
standing; — that when the piratical craft left, he came on deck, found none
of the crew, and saw marks of blood.” Doane says the decks were bloody
and the chests broken open and plundered ; also that the head of a rum-
barrel was knocked out and only two or three gallons left in it. This ac-
count vras given by Capt. D. to Edward Bacon Esq., of Barnstable, who
forwarded it by express to the governor, and the same day went to Chat-
ham to examine the person found on board. The governor immediately
acquainted Admiral Montagu ; and “ the Lively ” frigate ‘was sent to sea,
without a moment’s loss of time. An express was also sent to Newport, to
His Majesty’s ships there. In the meanwhile, “ the person found on board
was apprehended and ordered by the justices, into custody in Barnstable
jail.” He was soon after brought to the Province House in Boston, and,
after examination, was committed. The frigate returned; no pirate was
seen ; and it was considered as certain that there was none on the coast.
The person apprehended was held under suspicion of murder. Again,
Dec. 16, the same paper says, — “At a special court of Admiralty,” the
suspected “ was remanded for trial, June 2, tor murder upon the high seas.”
What made the case more remarkable was that “ two of the missing were
cousins german to the accused, the third married their sister, and the fourth
was a bov aged about 13, all belonging to Chatham.” Another paper, Aug.
2, 1773, says the accused “ was tried. Verdict, Not guilty; the court, upon
the former trial, the 1st week in April, being equally divided, 4 and 4, the
trial lasting 14 days ; a trial by far the most surprising event that has hap
pened in this or perhaps any other part of the world.”
xMr. Thos. Hamilton, by his w. Rebecca, had Rebecca Nov. 21,1720;
Nath’l Aug. 23, 1722; Grace 1724; Lydia 1726; Jane 1728; Zervia604
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1774, on the important committee appointed for
each town, by the Body of the People assembled be-
fore the Court House door at Barnstable, were Mr.
Richard Sears and Dea. Bassett for Chatham.1
In 1775, Jan. 12, military officers were chosen,
namely, Lt. Benjamin Godfrey, capt.; Mr. Richard
Sears, lieut.; Mr. Joseph Crowell, ensign; and Mr.
John Emery, clerk. It was “ voted, Jan. 26, not to
pay the Province monies to Harrison Gray ; ” the
town engaging to defend Mr. John Hawes. The com-
mercial position of the town being one of peculiar
exposedness, the resolves of the Continental Congress
being read in town-meeting, the action of the town is
made the subject of record in this remarkable form:
“ Voted not to vote to concur.” The same action was
had in regard to the Provincial resolves. The County
Congress resolves were read, Dec. 13, and “ a large
number signed against tea”
1731; Delilah 1734; and Thos. Sept. 14, 1739. Thos. Jr. m. Rebecca
Doane Feb. 19, 1759, and had Mary, Bethia, and Reliance. Daniel had,
by his w. Abigail, Melatiah Oct. 29,1730; Eleanor 1733 ; Eliphalet Jan.
10, 1735-6; and Sami Mar. 29, 1738. Samuel m. Bethia Stewart 25,
3d mo. 1727 ; and had Mary 1728 ; Sarah 1730; Michael Ap. 30, 1732;
and Mehit. 1735. Nathaniel m. Mehitable Godfrey Sept. 7, 1749, and
had Richard July 26, 1751; and Nath’l Ap. 10, 1753. There was a Dan-
iel in E., who, by w. Mary, had Grace Aug. 3, 1694.
1 Nathan Bassett of C., by his w. Elisa., had a son 1735, d. inf.; Elisa.
1736; Eben. Sept. 4, 1738, d. 1760; Joanna 1740; Nathan Mar. 5, 1743,
Peninah 1745, who m. Sam’l Basset; David and Jona., gemini, June 10,
1749; Mercy 1752, d. inf.; and Mercy 1753, d. inf. Nathan Jr.,b. 1743,
m. Eunice Mayo Dec. 22, 1763, and had Patience 1765; Eben. July 21,
1767, d. Jan. 19,1794; Betty 1769; Rebecca 1771; Nathan July 9,1773;
Isaac May 26, 1776; Theopliilus Feb. 18, 1778, d. 1797 ; Ensign Nov. 21,
1780 ; and Eunice 1785. David m. twice; had by Jedida, Temp. 1774;
Asenath 1 777 ; Tabitha 1 779 ; Jedida 1781; and by Elisa, had Deborah
1783 ; David Nov. 10, 1785 ; Eli Ap. 8, 1788; Jona. Ap. 27, 1790 ; Abner
April 9, 1793 ; and Lewis Ap. 2, 1796. Jonathan had by w. Hannah,
Roxana 1773 ; Thos. Dec. 10, 1775; James May 16, 1778; Abigail 1781;
and Hannah 1784. Nathaniel had by w. Sarah, Edith 1740; Happy
1743; Phebe 1744; Sami Mar. 10, 1746; Richard Mar. 13, 1748; Sarah
1750; Nat hi Mar. 20, 1755; Huldah 1756; and Hannah 1757. Thomas
m. Mary Newcomb of W. Sept. 15, 1763. William Jr. m. Hannah
Doane May 1, 1765. Samuel m. Peninah Bassett Jan. 14, 1768, and had
Mercy, John, Peninah, Mary, Elisa., Sami, Achsah, Enoch, and Esther.ANNALS OF CHATHAM.
605
In 1776, although an epoch of political interest, the
records contain nothing worthy of note.
In 1777, May 19, the town “raised £13. 6. 8. fora
man to enlist to the 10th of Jan. next; also £30 for
a man to enlist for the war.”
In 1778, Mar. 13, a committee of inspection and
safety was appointed ; and, Ap. 29, the Form of State
Government being read, an adjournment was had to
give time for consideration. Finally, 21 were for it,
and 33 against it.
In 1779, the town voted “ to fall in with the grand
Convention at Concord, and stipulate prices.” Lt. Wm.
Eldridge d. this year, Ap. 27.
In 1782, after a ministry of 33 years, the Rev.
Stephen Emery died, May 18.1
The town effected a final “ settlement with the es-
tate of Mr. Emery, Aug. 21; and voted “ to see if
Mr. Roby will prolong his probation.”
In 1783, Jan. 28, Mr. Roby being called to the pas-
torate by the church, the town unanimously concurred,
voting a settlement of £230, and a salary of £80 and
4 loads of salt hay, and 18 cords of wood annually,
with improvement of the town lands. Rev. Thomas
Roby, having accepted, was ordained, Oct. 22.2
There is little on record of general interest, beyond
municipal elections and the dull routine of transac-
tions of town business, for many years.
1	Rev. Stephen Emery, during his ministry, adm. to the church 135
members and bap. 681. By his w. Hannah, whom he m. in Falm., Me.,
Oct. 8, 1742, and who d. June 7, 1799, he had children Tabitha, who m.
Daniel Gilman of Dexter, Me. Dec. 8, 1763 ; Hannah, who m. John Ward
Gilman of Exeter Dec. 3, 1767. These were m. in Chatham; and, born
in C. was Samuel Feb. 22, 1750; perhaps others. Mr. John Emery had,
in C., by his w. Mercy, Stephen Aug. 21,1783 ; John Mar. 15,1785; Sam’l
Mar. 18, 1787; Betsy 1788; and Joseph Ap. 4, 1791. Rev. Mr. Emery
has many descendants in Chatham.
2	Rev. Mr. Roby was son of Mr. Robv the minister at Lynn, and grad.
H. C. 1 779.606
HISTOEY OP BAENSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1787, Mr. Seth Smith died, Ap. 20, se. 81,1 and
Mr. Caleb Nickebson died in 1794, ae. 59.2
In 1795, Oct. 22, Rev. Mr. Roby withdrew from the
pastoral charge after a ministry of 11 years;3 and,
Nov. 2, the town having consented to the dissolution
of the connection, were in pursuit of a successor.
In 1796, Feb. 22, application was made to Mr.
Ephraim Beiggs, to preach as a candidate for settle-
ment ; and, May 7, a call was extended to him, offer-
ing a salary of £85, the use of parsonage, 16 cords of
wood, and 5 loads of hay annually, with £230 settle-
ment. This call being somewhat modified afterwards,
Mr. Briggs accepted, and was ordained, July 20.4
In 1804, the amount raised for schools was $40. Our only
*Mr. Seth Smith, b. 1706, had, by his w. Elisa., Hugh Jan. 8, 1737,
who d. 1742 ; Mary 1740; Seth Aug. 22, 1743; Enos Feb. 21, 1745 ;
Elisa. 1748; and Hugh July 21, 1751. Hugh m. Lydia Paine Jan. 19,
1775, and had Seth Oct. 9, 1777 ; Andrew Oct. 28, 1779; Tho’s June 25,
1782; Mary 1784; Eben’r Oct. 21, 1786. Seth Jr. m. Elisa. Eldridge
Ap. 26, 1764, and had Edm’d Jan. 25, 1765 ; Joshua Ap. 19, 1766; Enos
Ap. 19, 1768; Betty 1 769 ; Bcuben Sept. 9, 1778. John, by w. Elisa.,
had Nath’l July 22, 1728, d. inf.; Elkanah Dec. 6, 1729, d. 1731; Elisa.
1732 ; Mehit. 1735, who m. Barnabas Baker, and removed to Lincoln Co.,
Me. 1779; John Dec. 30, 1737; Rhoda 1740; Tkos. June 15, 1744,who
went to Me.; Reuben Mar. 30, 1747; Benj. Nov. 23, 1749, who went to
Me.; and Henry Feb. 3, 1751. Thos. and Benj., with their bro.-in-law,
Mr. Baker, commenced a settlement where is now Litchfield, Me., in
1779, where their descendants are now numerous and highly respectable.
The first of these, Dea. Benj.,d. 1814, ee. 64, and Dea. Thomas d. 1833, ae.
90, the patriarch of the town.
2Mr. Caleb Nickerson, b. 1735, s. of Caleb, had by w. Eliza Mayo,
Joshua, b. 1756 ; Salathiel 1760 ; Judah 1761; Caleb 1763, d. y.; Richard
1765 ; Esther 1767 ; Leonard 1769; Simeon 1771; Abisha 1773 ; and
Caleb 1778, who d. 1840. The father of the above Caleb, we have said
was Caleb, who is traditionally reported as one “of ten sons of William,
one of the first settlers in this town,” and who, we suppose, was s. of the
first William. These ten sons settled either here or in Provincetown.
Caleb, the first, had b. to him Joshua 1733; Deborah 1734, d. y.; Caleb
1735, who was father of Salathiel and d. 1804 ; Moses 1739 ; Richard 1741
who d. 1774; Elisa. 1745, who d. 1806 ; and Deborah 1749. He d. Dec.
18, 1749. Joshua, b. 1733, s. of Caleb, m. Esther Ryder Dec. 15, 1754,
and had Caleb May 22, 1757 ; and Levi Dec. 10, 1759.
3	Rev. Mr. Roby, during his ministry, admitted to the church 66 mem-
bers.
4	Rev. Mr. Briggs was son of the minister at Halifax, who had five sons
settled in the ministry. This son was grad. H. C. 1791.ANNALS OF CHATHAM.
607
reason for adverting to this small appropriation, is to make subse-
quent improvement more conspicuous.
In 1809, the embargo was, of course, felt severely
here. In February, a meeting was held “ to consider
the alarming situation of public affairs, and to petition
the Legislature to interpose for relief against unjust vi-
olations of the rights of the people.”
In 1812, July 16, the majority being strongly op-
posed to war with Great Britain, and having expressed
the same by recorded vote, appointed also a committee
to memorialize the President of the U. States to this
effect, and to express the abhorrence of the people to
any alliance with France.
It was voted, in Oct., to repair the meeting-house,
and increase the number of pews.
In 1816, a Methodist Society was organized in
town. The Rev. Ephraim Briggs died, July 22, in
the 20th year of his ministry.1 Mr. David Sears, for-
merly of this town, died in Boston, Oct. 23, as. 64.2 3
In 1817, Jan. 1, a committee was appointed to con-
tract with Rev. Stetson Raymond, and he was ordained,
Ap. 9.8
In 1822, a Universalist Society was organized in
town. Rev. Calvin Munroe, Rev. Asa B. Cleverly,
Rev. Benton Smith, Rev. W. S. Utley, Rev. W. S. Cil-
ley, Rev. W. S. Clark, Rev. G. Collins, and Rev. J.
1 Rev. Mr. Briggs, during his ministry, adm. 91, and bap. 394. He is
said to have been not only a faithful pastor, but an ingenious chemist —
having the reputation of being the first in these parts who succeeded in
manufacturing Epsom salts and magnesia.
2Mr. Sears was one of the most successful men of business in Boston ;
was largely engaged in the India and Canton trade, and distinguished as
an intelligent and able financier. He was a director of the first bank of
the United States during its entire period. He purchased a territory 30 m.
square on the Penobscot in 1806, now constituting the towns of Searsmont,
Prospect, Knox, Searsport, etc. His incorruptible integrity and gentle-
manly bearing were worthy the inscription on the family monument in this
town: “ Worth is better than wealth ; goodness greater than nobility; excel-
lence brighter than distinction.”
3 Rev. Mr. Raymond, from Middleboro’, grad, at Brown, 1814.608
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Britton have been its ministers. A Baptist Society
was organized July, 1824.
In 1829, June 24, Rev. Stetson Raymond was dis-
missed from the pastorate of the Cong. Church and
Society, after a ministry of 13 years.1 He was suc-
ceeded by various supplies, — Rev. Mr. Scovel one
year, and by Rev. Mr. Fletcher a brief period. After
these, was Rev. Mr. Stone, engaged for a period of two
years.
In 1830, Rev. Davis Lothrop was minister of the
Baptist Society, which, from its organization has had a
succession of pastors or supplies. Richard Sears Jr.
Esq. died Nov. 28; Mr. Sears Atwood, Mar. 1, 1832;
and Mr. Stephen Smith, Mar. 18, 1833.
In 1834, Rev. Isaac Briggs was settled the minis-
ter of the Cong. Society, but remained only two or
three years.2 This society then received Rev. John A.
Vinton ;3 and afterwards Rev. Charles Rockwell,4
Rev. Messrs. Tucker,5 Dickinson, and Chapman, in suc-
cession. We may not record all the changes that
have since occurred. We have not been careful to
note them; for we live in an age when we are often
reminded of the saying of an aged pastor, who, com-
^ev. Mr. Raymond adm. 107, and bap. 156. He settled in Bridge-
water.
2	Rev. Mr. Briggs b. in Halifax May 7, 1775 ; grad. Brown 1794; was
first set. in York, Me. 1797 ; then in Boxford, Mass.; then here. His
health being unfavorably affected, as he conceived, by sea-coast exposure,
he set. in Rochester and remained 25 yrs., leaving in 1858, when 82, and
d. in Morrisania, N. Y., Feb. 22, 1862, ae. 87; “a good man and a faithful
minister.”
3	Rev. Mr. Vinton, of Braintree, grad. Dart. 1828. Was here Nov. 27,
1836; d. 1838.
4	Rev. Mr. Rockwell, from Colebrook, Ct., grad. Yale 1826, was ins.
May 27, 1838. He had been a chaplain in the U. S. navy, and conse-
quently much abroad, and pub. “ Sketches of a Life at Sea, including a
cruise on board a man-of-war,” also “A visit to Spain, Portugal, the
South of France, Italy, Sicily, Malta, the Ionian Islands, Continental
Greece, Liberia, and Brazil.”
5	Rev. Mr. Tucker remained but a few years, and then asked “ a dis-
mission that he might take the oversight of some parish not so well able to
support the Gospel.”ANNALS OF CHATHAM.
609
paring the present state of the parochial tenure with
the period when he entered upon the ministry, quaintly
remarked that “ministers should now be settled on
horseback, ready for a start.” Mr. Ensign Nickerson
died this year, June 25; and Mr. Mclford Howes,
Aug. 7.
In 1839, Hon. Richard Sears died May 13, se. 90.1
Mr. David Godfrey died Ap. 16, 1840, se. 74;2 Mr.
1Hon. Richard Sears, b. 1749, s. of Daniel, was a member formerly
of the Senate of Massachusetts, and through a long course of years a prom-
inent citizen. By m. with Hetty Marshall of Framingham, he had Daniel
1783, who d. unm.; Hetty, twin to Daniel, w ho m. Rev. Isaac Briggs and
and d. 1814; Ebenezer 1788 who d. 1810; Marshall, twin to Eben., who
d. unm.; Fear, w ho m. Dea. Chs. Seuddor and d. 1822, leaving issue, Mar-
shall S. and Chs. Win.; Sarah, who m. Rev. Isaac Briggs, his 2d w., and
had issue Mary, Richard S., Chs. M., George, and Jas. F.; and Richard,
who m. Alathena Marshall and d. 1830 leaving no issue. Daniel, b.
1757, bro. of Hon. Rd., was of Watertown and d. 1815, unm.
2u Francis Godfrey, who was in Plym. 1G37, is believed to have been
the progenitor.” Of the correctness of the assumption we have no evidence
aside from the preceding quotation which is the result of the investigations
of an intelligent gent, of the family name. He also supposes that the de-
scendants of the above Frs. went to Eastham. We have already men-
tioned, p. 3 75, Mr. George Godfrey of E., and his immediate issue. It
is supposed that Moses, there mentioned as b. 1GG7, s. of Geo. 1st., was
the father of Geo., Benj., and Knowles; and that the last-named George
is he who m. Rebecca Howes, Ap. 15, 17GG, and had David Dec. 3, 17G6 ;
and Mercy 17G9, who m. Capt. Zoath Nickerson and d. in 1862, ae. 92.
David, b. 1766, s. of Geo. Jr., is the subject of this note. He m. 1st, Es-
ther Howes, dr. Daniel, and 2d, Dorcas Howes. Issue was by 1st m.,
namely, Geo., who d. inf.; Rebecca, d. inf.; David 1792 ; George, who was
lost at sea in 1621, from the schooner George of which he was captain;
Rebecca, who m. David Atwood; Jonathan, lost at sea by the same disas-
ter, on Pollock-rip, which befell his bro. Geo.; Esther, who m. Isaac Bea ;
and perhaps others who d. early. Mr. David Godfrey was a prominent cit-
izen and much respected. He was some time selectman, and ten yrs. town
clerk and treasurer. Col. Benjamin, s. of Moses, left no issue. He also
was a prominent citizen, captain of a company at the Bunker Hill battle,
and d. aged. Knowles m. Jerusha Ryder Oct. 23, 1760, and had
Knowles Sept. 13, 1762; and Mercy 1764. Knowles, b. 1762, m. Mary
Ryder Oct. 19, 178G, and had issue, among whom was Benjamin, who
went West. This last was early a ship-master. Wrecked on the coast of
Mexico and thus losing all he possessed, the recuperative energy of a Cape
Cod man was soon displayed by the acquisition of a fortune in mercantile
pursuits, in houses established by him in Matamoras and N. Orleans. Re-
tiring in 1832, his disposition for activity forbade a life of indolence, and he
removed to Illinois, made extensive purchases and located where Alton
since is, — then containing but two or three log cabins. To his energy and
pecuniary aid is largely attributable the construction of the railroad from
Alton to Springfield. His endowments for education, by the establishment
of the Monticello Female Seminary, were much larger than are mentioned
VOL. II.	77610
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Caleb Nickerson Mar. 24, 1841; and Mr. Tiiomas IIowes
in 1843.
In 1845, Capt. David Godfrey, son of the preceding
of the same name, an eminent shipmaster and subse-
quently engaged in mercantile pursuits, died in New
York, £8. 53.1
In 1846, Capt. Enos Eldridge died Jan. 15, ss. 33;
and Mr. Isaac Hardy, July 24. In 1847, Mr. Ebenezer
Covel died, a man of influence and respectability, and
father of the present Josiah of this town, Hon. Alpheus,
in a notice taken of his decease from which we shall quote in citing the
vevents of 1862.
1Capt. David Godfrey^, b. 1792, s. of David, wTho cl. 1840, and gr. s.
of Geo., m. Anna Young, 3d dr. of Capt. Joseph, and had issue, David, d.
young; George; Anna Y., d. early; and Jonathan, d. early. Mr. Godfrey
took to the seas young, and at his majority was commander. During the
war of 1812-14, he vcas an officer on board the privateer Reindeer; after-
wards wras perhaps the very first to run a regular line packet between Boston
and New York, and was therefore sometimes styled Commodore — he, in
connection with Capt, Joshua Nickerson, Capt. Mulford Howes, Mr. Ezra
Lewis, Capt. Zenas D. Bassett, the late Geo. Lovell and others, projecting
the well-known “ Despatch-line.” Removing to N. York in 1830, he there
engaged in mercantile pursuits. lie is represented as a high-minded, hon-
orable man, liberal and greatly respected. For the engraving on the oppo-
site page, we are indebted to his son, Mr. George Godfrey, now a merchant
in New York.
We would here remark that it is inconvenient to make mention of all
the families of this or other names as we have desired. Although with
great pains and at much expense we have collected materials more than we
can use, the difficulties in the way of determining relative issues without
assistance from intelligent descendants, forbid our hazarding what without
such aid would be often uncertain conjecture; — a circumstance which it is
possible the intelligent of future generations, whose filial reverence shall
lead them to inquiry, may regret.
The name of Godfrey is now widely scattered. Besides those of the
name already mentioned, were Richard of IL, prob. s. of Geo. 1st., and
b. 1677, who m. Lydia Freeman, dr. William, 1701, and had Hannah Jan.
26, 1703-4, who m. Edward Gray July 3, 1727; Elisa. Dec. 20, 1704;
Mary Aug. 23, 1707, who m. David Hopkins Oct. 26, 1732; Lydia and
Rebecca July 27, 1709 ; and Phcbc June 24, 1716. Richard of C., who
m. Azuba Collins Jan. 10, 1750. Richard Jr. of C., who m. Lydia
Doane Dec. 23, 1756, and had DoaneDec. 11, 1757 ; Joseph Jan. 11,1763 ;
Molly 1766; Ricli’d Aug. 20, 1769; Geo. May 23, 1771 ; Polly 1773 ; Ly-
dia 1775; Dorcas 1 777 ; James Aug. 15, 1779; and Benj. May 9, 1782.
Moses had by w. Martha, Martha 1727; Hannah 1729; Eunice 1731;
Joseph Dec. 7, 1733; Deborah 1736; Moses Oct, 10, 1739, d. inf.; . Moses
Jan. 8, 1740-1 ; John May 31, 1743; and Elisa. 1747. Thomas m. Be-
thiah Eldridge June 7, 1733. George m. Mercy Knowles Nov. 1, 1733.
Jonathan Jr. m. Mercy Nickerson Sept, 2, 1725. Josiaii m. EuniceANNALS OF CHATHAM.
611
of Boston, etc.; also Mr. Salathiel Nickerson, Oct. 7, se.
87.1
In 1848, July 31, Mr. Joseph Young died ; and Mr.
Joseph Atwood, Dec. 25, 1850, a representative of one
of the ancient families, a prominent citizen — formerly
ship-master,afterwards merchant,and greatly respected.
In 1861, Capt. Samuel Howes died, Sept. 22, se. 85.
Mr. Mulford IIowes died in 1862. We also record,
as a tribute to one who went from this town some
forty years ago, and illustrated the benevolence of
Godfree July 7, 1748. Benjamin m. Elisa. Hopkins Aug. 23, 1738. Jo-
seph m. Meliit. Hamilton Jan. 7, 1756. George m. Jane Bourse Nov. 9,
1758. Solomon m. Mercy Crowell July 10, 1709, and had Phebe 1771 ;
Mercy 17 75; Solomon Jan. 18, 1777 ; Molly 1779; and John Ap. 8, 1783.
Joshua had by w. Phebe, Natli’l Mar. 16, 1743; Solo. Sept. 1, 1746;
Phebe 1748 ; Joshua Mar. 24, 1750; David Ap. 23, 1754 ; and Levi 1756.
Joshua Jr. m. Naomi Kelley Nov. 3, 1774, and had Ruth, Naomi, Esther,
Hannah, James, Cynthia, Joshua Oct. 20, 1787, Patience, and Luther.
Benjamin m. Sarah Mayo Ap. 26, 1764. Enoch m. Miriam Smith Nov.
7, 1 7 72. David m. Rachael Nickerson July 9, 17 72, and had Levi Mar.
10, 1 7 73; David May 15, 1775; Betsy; Katy; Rachel; and Joseph. Na-
than m. Sarah Eldridge Nov. 16,1769. Benjamin m. Bethia Atwood
Aug. 2, 1762.
xMr. Salathiel Nickerson, b. 1760, s. of Caleb, and an engraved
likeness of whom appeal's on the opposite page, for which we are indebted
to the courtesy of Dr. E. W. Carpenter, Joshua Nickerson, Esq., and per-
haps others of the family, was truly a representative man—scrupulously
upright, a firm friend, faithful in all the relations of life. In early life, he
served in the army of the Revolution; afterwards represented this town in
the Legislature ; was also selectman; and many years one of the leading
men in this part of the county. In business, he was greatly successful; and
to a considerable extent engaged in ship-building, the last of his vessels be-
ing launched here in 1838. In religious profession a Univcrsalist, he was
one of the founders of the society of that order here. In politics, u he was
a firm and consistent Democrat.” In illustration of his energy of charac-
ter, it has been mentioned that, during the war of 1812, the privateer
Scourge having landed here some goods captured from the enemy, a British
frigate soon appeared off the coast, and sent a barge demanding the resto-
ration of the prize and threatening in case of refusal to burn the town.
A meeting was called ; some of the principal men thought it best to comply
with the enemy’s demand and save the town from conflagration ; and even
commenced removing the goods. Mr. Nickerson made his appearance at
this juncture, countermanded the order, and drove the barge from the har-
bor notwithstanding angry threats of destroying his house and property.
Mr. N. m. Sabrina Nickerson June 12, 1780, and had a large family, namely,
Elisa. 1781, who m. Dr. Cyrus Chamberlain; Sabra, 1782, who m. Wm.
Oliver; Joshua 1785; Polly 1787, who m. James Cunningham; Salathiel
1789, who m. Martha McCluer; Ruth 1792, who m. Jacob Cunningham;
Dorcas 1794, who m. Mulford Howes; Lurana 1796, who m. IIowes Ryder;612
ANNALS OF CHATHAM.
his heart by noble charities, the decease, this year,
in Illinois, of Capt. Benjamin Godfrey.1
In 1863, Jan. 3, Mr. Joseph Eldridge died, ae. 78;
Mr. Thacher Ryder, Feb. 13, se. 67, a prominent citizen;
and Doct. Daniel P. Clifford, Sept. 22, se. 77.
At this date, we recognize with gratitude the be-
nignity of an always good Providence, in the fact that
States shortly since embroiled by their surroundings
and destined by malign influences to an obnoxious at-
titude, are rescued from their thraldom; and that so
considerable numbers of the people, — their patriotic
impulses left free to action, — are yearning for the
restoration of a glorious U nion. The counsels of “ the
Father of his country,” the immortal Washington —
whose spirit our imagination sometimes depicts look-
ing down upon scenes that have anguished the hearts
of patriots, pleading
“ Embrace again, my sons! be foes no more,
Nor stain your country with her children’s gore ”
Rhoda 1798, who m. Jas. Nickerson; Sally 1800, who m. Christopher Ry-
der; Emily 1802, who m. Sylv’s Mayo; Thomas 1805, who m. Rebecca
Howes; Franklin 1807, who m. Lurana Young; Simeon 1809, who m.
Angelina Anderson; and Caleb 1812, who m. Julia Hamilton. Josiiua,
Esq., b. 1785, now surviving, m. Tabitha Howes 1810, and had b. to him
Joshua 1812, who m. Laura Hart; John II. 1814, who m. Mary Goodspced
and d. 1858; Mary H. 1817, who m. Elijah W. Carpenter, M. D. 1838,
who, b. in Upton, Worcester Co. Jan. 31, 1814, settled as a practising phy-
sician in this town, (whose issue have been Chs. L. 1839, d. 1840; Ella 1841,
who m. Edwin F. Knowlton 1831 ; Georgia 1844; and May 1848, d. 1852 ;)
Lorenzo 1820 who m. Susie Miller; Tabitha 1823, who m. Geo. Godfrey ;
and Elizabeth.
1 Capt. Godfrey, whose early home was in this town, “ pushed to sea
almost as soon as he could handle a rope, as most Cape Cod boys do; and
prosecuted his fortunes with energy and success, both in seafaring and mer-
cantile employments, to the accumulation of a handsome fortune, and finally
selected a home on the banks of the Sagamon River. He there, at an ex-
pense of more than $50,000, erected an institution for female education,
which for twenty-five years has poured its blessings over State and Terri-
tory on both sides of the Mississippi.”
“ Fortune’s a well, and hoards but air,
’Till use lends weight to wealth, and taste to care;
Thus shine the rich man’s joys, when shared they flow;
He that would well possess, must wide bestow.”ANNALS OP CHATHAM.
613
— are neither forgotten, nor disesteemed. The ties
that once bound together a great and prosperous na-
tion are not broken forever. Our country’s career in
prosperity will again move on in peace and amity, pro-
longed, perpetuated ; the national escutcheon freed
from the dark spot that has rested upon it; traitors
to humanity and freedom weeded out from public in-
fluence by their own ambition and the mysterious de-
signs of Him who maketh the wrath of man to praise
him. True, this result is not yet history ; we offer it
not as such, but as the devout aspiration and hope of
our heart.
Our annals of Chatham conclude with the fervent
prayer that questions of secondary importance —
questions to be ignored by every true American in
times of national peril — may not be made paramount
in a day like this. If political capital is to be created
by demagogues out of national difficulties, and if elec-
tioneering triumphs are to be sought regardless of the
general weal, it may be hailed with delight by the
leaders of the revolt, may please their sympathizers
abroad, may partially paralyze the arm of govern-
ment, may retard the crushing of Rebellion and in-
crease the effusion of blood; but it will also invest
the actors with unwelcome odor and lasting shame.
REPRESENTATIVES.
Yrs.
1768. Joseph Doane,	10.
1780.	Joseph Howes,	1.
1781.	Richard Sears,	19.
1807. Reuben Ryder,	3.
1827. Richard Sears Jr., 2.
1829.	Joseph Atwood, 3.
1830.	Joseph Young, 3.
1832. Joshua Nickerson, 6.
1834. Freeman Nickerson, 5.
1837.	Seth Nickerson,	Yrs. 1.
1838.	Josiah Kendrick,	4.
1839.	Thos. Sparrow,	1.
1840.	Sam’l Doane,	3.
“	Henry Gorham,	1.
1841.	James Gould,	2.
1842.	Eph’m Taylor,	2.
1844. Joseph Young Jr.,		, 1.
Yr*
1845.	John Taylor,	1.
1846.	Watson ‘Hinckley, 1.
1847.	O. A. Nickerson, 1.
1849. Lothrop A. liearse, 2.
185 <. Sam’1 Doane,	1.
1854.	Richard Gould, 2.
1855.	Homan Smith, 1.
1857. Thomas Dodge, 1.614
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
SELECTMEN.
1696.
1697.
1698.
1700.
1703.
1704.
1707.
1708.
17 iO.
1712.
171*.
1717.
1719.
1720.
1721.
1722.
1725,
172(3.
1729,
1731.
u
1732,
1733
1736,
Yrs.
4.
6.
13.
3.
Wm. Nickerson,
Joseph Harden,
Thos. Atkins,
Wm. Eldred,
Wm. Griffith,
Nicholas Eldred,
Thos. Nickerson,
Wm. Nickerson,
(“ son of Jno.”)
Nath’l Covel,
Daniel Hamilton,
Edmund Howes,
Eben. Howes,
Jos. Eldridge,
Moses Godfrey,
John'Smith,
John Atkins,
W. Nickerson, ‘Elis.’1.
Samuel Taylor, 4.
Thos. llowes, ‘Ens.’ 2.
Richard Sears, 1.
Daniel Sears, 11.
Thos. Atkins,	8.
lit. Paddock,	2.
Paul Crowell,
Wm. Eldridge,
Nath’l Covel,
Wm. Eldridge Jr.,
Thos. Doane,
Jos. Harding,
Samuel Taylor,
Jo!in Young,
Caleb Nickerson,
Jno. Nickerson,
Paul Crowell,
Sain’l Stewart,
Thos. A. Doane,
1736.
(i
1739.
1740.
1742.
1748.
1749.
1750.
1700.
1702.
17(34.
1705.
1708.
1772.'
17 70.
1779.
1780.
1782.
1783.
1780.
1789.
1790.
1797.
1800.
1801.
1803.
1804.
1807,
Sam’l Atkins,
Sam’l Smith,
James Covel,
Thos. Hamilton,
Jno. Eldridge,
Paul Sears,
Thos. Nickerson,
Solo. Collins,
Nehem’h Harding,
Moses Godfrey,
Daniel Sears Jr.,
Paul Crowell Jr.,
Nathan Basset,
Sam’l Collins,
Seth Smith,
John IIawes,
Joseph Doane,
Jos. Atwood,
Jos. Howes,
Barzillui Hopkins,
Jno. Crowell,
Caleb Nickerson,
Jas. Eldridge,
Benj. Godfrey,
Isaac Howes,
Elijah Smith,
Sam’l Doane,
Kimbal Ryder,
Jonah Crowell,
Stepli. Smith,
Jona. Nickerson,
Simeon Ryder,
Seth Taylor,
Mulford Howes,
Joseph Young,
Reuben C. Taylor,
David Godfrey,
1808.
<<
1810.
<(
1812.
1813.
1814.
1819.
1820.
1823.
1824.
1820.
Yrs.
Reuben Ryder,	1.
John Taylor,	6.
NathT Snow,	11.
Myrick Nickerson,* 1.
Kimbal Ryder Jr.,	1.
Rd. Nickerson,
Thos. Howes Jr.,
Salath’l Nickerson,
Stephen Ryder Jr.,
Sam’l Doane,
Jos. Atwood,
Christ’r Taylor Jr.,
Nehem’h Doane,
Isaac Hardy,
Joshua Atkins,
Simeon Doane,
1828. .
1829. !
1831. Joshua Nickerson, 18.
1.
2.
7.
5.
7.
1.
6.
1.
1.
1.
1.
1838.
(<
1843.
1844.
1840.
1847.
1849.
1851.
1852.
T 53.
1854.
1855.
u
1850.
1859.
1861.
Josiah Kendrick,
Epli’m Taylor,
Reuben Young,
Thos. Sparrow,
Joel Sparrow,
Zenas Atkins,
Josiah Mayo,
Jos. Young Jr,
Zenas N ickerson,
Hy. Eldridge Jr,
Ziba Nickerson,
H. T. Eldridge,
Warren Rogers,
Jas. Gould,
Jacob Smith,
IV. nj. T. Freeman,
Rd. Taylor,
Josiah Hardy Jr,
Eph’m Taylor,
Levi Eldridge Jr.
TOWN TREASURERS.
Yrs. 1693. Wm. Nickerson, 8.			1723. Nath’l Nickerson,	Yrs. 2.	1740.
1701.	Thos. Atkins,	7.	1725. Joseph Harden,	1.	1748.
1708.	Wm. Crowell,	2.	172(3. Elisha Mayo,	3.	1752.
1710.	W. Nickerson, ‘Ens.	> 1.	1729. Rd. Knowles,	2.	1753.
1711.	Nath’l Covel,	2.’	1731. Thos. Nickerson,	1.	1709.
1713.	Richard Sears,	1.	1732. Jno. Atkins,	2.	1775.
1714.	Thos. Hawes,	5.	1733. Daniel Scars,	6.	1785.
1719.	Jno. Collins,	2.	1735. Paul Crowell,	1.	1789.
1721.	Thos. Doane,	2.	173(3. James Covel,	21.	
Yrs.
4.
1.
1.
2.
14.
2.
8.
4.
gg" Since 1792, it is understood that the town clerks have uni-
formly held the office of town treasurer also ; therefore, this table
is continued in the following from that date.
TOWN CLERKS.
1693. Wm. Nickerson,	Yrs. 15.
1708. Thos. Atkins,	9.
1714. Daniel Sears,	28.
1722. Sam’l Stewart,	2.
1732. Thos. Nickerson,	1.
1749. James Covel,	7.
1752. Paul Sears,	1.
1753. Dan’l Sears Jr.,	2.
i	xrs.
! 1769. Nathan Bassett, 14.
1775. Richard Sears, 2.
1785. John Emery,	8.
1789.	John Doane.	1.
1790.	Joseph Doane, 3.
1797. Nathan Bassett Jr., 6.
1803. John Hawes, 20.
1824. Reuben C. Taylor, 3.
xra.
1827.	Richard Sears Jr., 1.
1828.	David Godfrey, 10.
1838.	David Atwood, 1.
1839.	Christop’r Taylor, 4.
1843.	Nath’l Snow,	1.
1844.	Eph’m Taylor, 3.
1847. Josiah Mayo, 17.THE
ANNALS OF THE TOWN
O F
PROVINCETOWN.
“ZEBULON SHALL DWELL AT THE HAVEN OF THE SEA ; AND HE SHALL BE FOB AN HAVEN
OF SHIPS ; AND HIS BOEDER SHALL BE UNTO Z1DON. — Uenesis xiix. 13.
(618)Kimrigtiott.
TO ME. ELISHA DYEE,
OP PROVINCETOWF:
History informs us that “ Kings and Princes in the earlier days of the world,
labored in arts and occupations, and were above nothing that tended to the con-
veniences of life.” We honor Industry none the more, nor less, because practised
by royalty; but most when associated with intelligence, courtesy, and sterling
integrity.
• A wit’g a feather, and a chief’s a rod s
An honest man’s the noblest work of God.”
We take great pleasure, therefore, in presenting these Annals
INSCRIBED
to him ffito (sometime selectman) has for a long period worthily held the offices
of town clerk and treasurer;
With assurances of the sincere respect of
THE AUTHOR.ANNALS OF PROVINCETOWN.
Provincetown — the name of which is indicative of
the relation which it early sustained to the Colonial
Government — originally associated with Truro for
certain municipal purposes, was made a District, or
Precinct, in 1714, for a time still continuing under the
constableric of the latter town. It was incorporated
as a township, by its present name, June 14, 1727,
and, on account of its peculiar location, was invested
with unusual privileges, the inhabitants being ex-
empted from taxation and from military duty. At
this period, as for a number of years, it was a flourish-
ing, though small settlement. Within 12 or 15 years,
the inhabitants began to remove from the place in
considerable numbers, so that before the year 1748, at
the beginning of the French Revolution, there were
not more than three houses at the harbor, the popular
tion being reduced to two or three families. Others,
it is true, soon came in ; still, as late as 1755, it con-
tained but about 10 or 15 dwelling-houses. In the
census of 1764, no notice was taken of ii In the
time of the Revolutionary War, 1776, the number of
families had increased to 36 ; and the town contained
205 inhabitants and 20 dwelling-houses. It remained
in a state of great depression during the war, in the
former period of which, having no means of defence,
Vol. II. 78.	(617)618
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
and the government being unable to protect it, it was
almost entirely in the power of the enemy, who did
not hesitate to make exactions for supplies whenever
they needed. Its spacious harbor afforded a most
convenient and desirable resort for His Britannic Maj-
esty’s ships of war, and was, for the time being, useless
to our own navigation. With the return of the bless-
ings of peace, the town began again to lift its head,
until it gradually became a place of more than ordi-
nary prosperity.
Its name was suggested, as we have intimated, from
its peculiar relation to the Province, by which it was
succored on account of the advantages it secured to
shipping. The name was originally written Province
Town. The Provincial Government paid at least £20
per annum, many years, for the support of the Gospel
here, and, after the settlement of the Rev. Samuel
Parker, £45 annually for 12 years. After 1786, the
ministry was supported wholly by the town.
Situation and Boundaries. — Provincetown is situated in
lat. 42° 3' N., and 70° 9' W. from Greenwich ; and is distant
from Boston, by land, E. S. E., 110 m., and, by water, 55 m.;
from Cape Ann about 50 m.; and from Barnstable, by land, 45
m. The length of the township from its S. E. bound to Wood
End, is about 4 m., and its mean breadth is 2j m. Lying at the
end of the peninsula which constitutes the county, in the shape
of a hook, it is bounded by Truro on the S. W.; the Atlantic
ocean on the N.; Barnstable Bay on the W.; and Cape Cod
Harbor, within the curvature, on the S.
Natural Divisions, etc. — The township consists of sundry
beaches, hills, and downs, with several shallow ponds, swamps,
or morasses. The principal ponds, so called, are Shankpainter’s,
Clapp’s, Black-water, Great, Grass, Duck, Pasture, Round, and
Farm.
Race Point is the N. W. extremity of Cape Cod.1 Long Point
^ne mile below Race Point, on the outside, is a Fog Bell; and Life
Boat3 are stationed there, as also at intervals toward Truro and above it;ANNALS OP PROVINCETOWN.
619
is a low sand-beach stretching about 6 ra. distance from Race
Point in a curveted form, from 100 to 500 yards in breadth, and
Wood End lies between the two. The shore at Race Point and
on the outside of Long Point is very bold. On each of these
points is a lighthouse,—the one revolving, the other permanent
or standing. The curvature of the shore on the W. side, and S.
of Race Point, embraces Herring Cove, which is 3 m. in length,
with good anchoring ground and 4 or 5 fathoms of water in
which, with the wind from the N. E. or S. E., vessels may ride
in safety. Within the curvature, is House Point Island; on the
southern extremity of the cove being Wood End, from which a
shoal extends about \ m. W. S. W. called Wood End Bar.
Cape Cod Harbor is formed by the curvature of the land from
Pamet River, in Truro, to Long Point. This curve describes
nearly every point in the compass, rendering the harbor com-
pletely land-locked E. W. and N., and excellently and eminently
safe. The distance from Long Point to the Truro shore is about
4 m., and to the business part of Provincetown, 2 m. The
depth of water on the anchoring ground is from 13 to 14 fath-
oms. That part of the anchorage found most convenient is
about 4^ fathoms. As there are flats extending some distance
from the settlement, vessels usually anchor about f m. from the
shore; but, besides lesser wharves, one is now constructed to
deep water. The harbor is sufficiently capacious for 3000 vessels
and is a haven of the greatest importance to navigation whether
as respects vessels doing business in the neighboring waters, or
ships from foreign voyages arriving on the coast in thick and
stormy weather.
Not fir from Race Point, commences a ridge or chain of sand-
hills extending to the head of Stout’s Creek in Truro. These
hills pass immediately in the rear of the village, and beyond this
border of hills is the continuation of the main land of the penin-
sula, about 1|- m. in breadth, composed of lesser hills, downs,
pools, and morasses. These are in some places partially covered
with tufts of grass, shrubs, or scrub-wood; but little wood of
any kind remains. A few pines, diminutive maples, beech, and
aspen are to be seen, and some wild-cherry trees, whortleberry
bushes, beach-plum, and bay-berry shrubs.1
and on the N. side of the town is a wreck-house, for the protection of those
who may be so unfortunate as to be cast on shore.
1 There was found here, a half-century ago, — and it may be, some are
yet remaining, — a large berry, then known as the u Josh Pear,” something620
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
From the higher hills, the eye has a near prospect of the ocean
on the opposite side of the main land; but between the ocean
and the nearer land is a broad margin of white sand. Springs
are found below the sands everywhere, and the water is good, —
as all that is received by the hills, from dews and rains, immedi-
ately filters to their base, or to some fitting reservoir. Planting
beach grass in the sands has long been an expedient here, as in
Truro, to prevent the ravages of winds; the spreading and mat-
ted roots of this grass tend to effect the purpose in some degree,
but to apply the preventive to the whole of the extended waste
were a labor that probably will never be undertaken.
The salt-meadows, in the direction of Truro, have been in
times past of great importance in affording pasturage and fodder
for cattle; and in some measure are still valued.
The settlement, which is more than 2 miles in length, thickly
studded with dwellings, stores, etc., stands on the margin of a
beach of loose sand, on the northwestern side of the harbor, di-
rectly below the chain of hills to which we have already referred.
The houses are chiefly on one street which is near the water’s
edge. This main avenue, through which the passer had once
literally to wade in sand, sometimes ankle-deep, has been marked
by the improvements of the age; a substantial sidewalk has been
built of timber and plank, and the carriage-way made pleasant
and easy by a covering and admixture of clay, thus affording
more substantial footing for both man and beast. The town is
altogether unique. On the hills, tufts of grass, holding their ex-
istence by frail tenure in masses of loose sand, cause the light
color of their foundation to contrast strangely with their thin
verdure. In passing along the street, here and there, delightful
oases surprise the eye, — unpretending, artificial gardens formed
from imported soil. Nor, if we pass from the village over the
arid waste in the rear, shall we find that these are the only culti-
vated spots ; cranberry plats have been formed, — Shankpainter’s
Pond and other localities attesting the success that has attended
the enterprise of the proprietors; these plats yielding a greater
profit, in proportion to the extent cultivated, than the richest land
of Western prairies. The dwelling-houses are generally of neat
and comfortable aspect ; some are even more than this. Four
edifices for public worship, one Congregational, two Methodist,
like the whortleberry, but as large as ordinary cherries, and said to be a
delicious fruit.ANNALS OF PROVINCETOWN.
621
and one Universalist, adorn the town, and unfold their doors for
spiritual edifying; whilst the Pilgrim House and Union Hotel
provide ample refreshment and comfort for the body of traveller
or sojourner. Ocean Hall and Odd Fellows’ Hall stand for their
respective uses. The Provincetown Bank, true to its trusts and
the purposes for which it was erected, is here; as are also the
Seamens’ Savings Bank, Fire and Marine Insurance Companies,
a Circulating Library, and other institutions and appliances, not
excepting a jail —provided by special Act of the Legislature,
the place being 45 m. remote from the county-jail proper, — re-
flecting no discredit on the highly moral community, whereas
since the place is wholly maritime and visited constantly by
strangers from all climes, such an institution must necessarily
enter into their well-ordered arrangements. The Town Hall,
and a handsome and commodious edifice for the High School, in
addition to four other public school-houses in their respective
districts, are conspicuous objects. A steamer and swift-sailing
packets, plying regularly between this town and Boston, are also
both local and public conveniences.
We have said that the location and surroundings of this place
are somewhat unique ; in addition to peculiarities already cited,
we may observe that interspersed among or near all these to-
kens of comfort and thrift are seen numerous structures,—
“flakes” they are termed, — indicative of a large portion of the
legitimate business of the inhabitants.
On these flakes fish are dried, or, as the term is, “ made”
Constructed from 3 ft. to 4 in breadth, and from 20 ft. to 50 in
length, elevated about 2 ft. above the ground, these frames have
slats or osiers laid over or interwoven upon them to receive their
burden. The cargoes, or “fares” of returned fishing vessels are
thrown out into shoal water upon the flats near the beach ; the
fish are thoroughly washed, — having before been split, disem-
bowelled, and salted, on board ship as fast as taken, — and then
conveyed to the frames to be made. The reflection from the
sand beneath is nearly or quite as intense as the direct rays of
the sun from above. In the making, good judgment is required,
as well as careful watching of the state of the weather. The
terms by which the operation is expressed, appear to be borrowed
from the art of haymaking; the fish must in due time be turned,
and, if the weather is unfavorable, or, if heavy dews of the night
require, must be stacked. In stacking, each fish is laid neatly
and horizontally with the tail inward and lapping to keep the022
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
stack bound together and in proper shape. When sufficiently
made, store-houses in waiting receive them, and soon a ready
market and generally good prices are found. The preceding de-
scription relates, of course, only to cod and other fish that are
dried; with mackerel, the course is different. Being prepared
and salted in casks on shipboard, when landed on the wharves,
they only require assorting and inspection.
As may well be supposed, great changes have come over the
place and its business within the last half-century. When the
census for 1800 was taken, tho number of inhabitants was 812 ;
in 1855, it was 3096. At the former date, there were 141 dwell-
ings; 90 stores, — chiefly for the storing of fish; 5 buildings for
the smoking of herrings; 4 or 5 shops ; 2 windmills for the grind-
ing of grain ;* 10 clusters of salt-works containing 11,404 ft. sur-
face of vats, which, with numerous diminutive windmills attached
for the purpose of raising the salt-water for evaporation, and
thickly studding the shore, gave the whole extent of the settle-
ment a much more novel aspect than it presents at present; and
two meeting-houses — one Congregational, the other Methodist
—neither large, but the latter of lesser dimensions than the for-
mer. Now, the number of dwellings, shops, stores, store-houses,
etc. are multiplied, as are also various facilities for business.
The herring-fisheries have nearly ceased ;1 2 the manufacture of salt
has also declined, the vanes, or sails, of the mills attached, grow-
ing less numerous every year as the works, having fulfilled their
mission, are suffered to pass away;3 and the larger and lofty
1	One of these mills, standing on the high hill in the rear of the town, was
to be seen from a great distance at sea, and many years was a land-mark
to seamen entering the harbor. This mill “ was carried by flyers inside,
and appeared like a large and lofty tower.” Where this mill was, the hill
since known as High Pole Hill, stands the sightly Town Hall, and near by
the creditable High School edifice.
2	Formerly, herring were taken here in great quantities, chiefly in the
harbor, from Oct. 1 to Dec. 1. In some years 6000 lbs. were cured. See
note, p. 30.
3	As early as the beginning of this century, 800 hogsheads of salt were
used here in the fisheries. Until the repeal of the duty on imported salt,
this town had, by reason both of its facilities for the manufacture and the
home-consumption, superior inducements to invest in salt-works. These
works were erected near the dwellings, directly under the eye of their own-
ers or supervisors — so that as the weather was favorable or otherwise, they
could be uncovered or covered without loss of time. The sand-hills under
which they stood reflected on the vats a strong heat; and, as no fresh
streams ran into the harbor, the salt-water yielded, for the same number of
superficial feet, more salt in a given time than in any other part of the
county.ANNALS OF PROVINCETOWN.
623
windmills for grinding having given place to steam. Although
changes are inevitable, one enterprise succeeds to another; and,
even by results disastrous, the recuperative energies of a people
accustomed to industry and daring are developed.
When the Mayflower arrived in Cape Cod Harbor, Nov. 11,
1620, O. S.,1 whales were abundant. They continued long after
to be taken here and in the adjacent waters.1 2 Even now, if per-
adventure one occasionally shows itself within the range of the
practised sight of a seaman, no objection is made to the vicinage
of the game, and it is almost sure to be “ brought to ” by the un-
erring harpoon of the expert. Those who engage in the busi-
ness have, however, with these incidental exceptions, to look for
this fish elsewhere. The business has never been entirely relin-
quished by the inhabitants; ships, brigs, barques, and schooners
are still employed in whaling. The harbor and contiguous waters
were, in early times, as is well known, richly supplied with great
varieties of fish. Bass were abundant many years, so that gen-
erally 800 quintals were ready for market in a single season ; few
comparatively of these are now taken.3 At an early period, cod-
fish were sought immediately about the Cape; the reliance of
those engaged in this fishery was soon on other localities dis-
1 This corresponds with Dec. 21, N. S., if 10 days be added to correct
the style ; and, by the same reckoning, the Pilgrims, after sending their shal-
lop to various places, sailed in the ship from this harbor, Dec. 25, N. S.—
i. e., Dec. 15, O. S.—but, in consequence of a northwester, put back
again, and the next day, Dec. 26, N. S., took their final departure from the
harbor. If, then, the shallop entered Plymouth harbor, Dec. 9th, O. S.,
and the Mayflower, Dec. 16, O. S., the 21st, N. S. finds the Pilgrims in
Cape Cod Harbor. When, and how shall the true day for the anniversary
of their landing at Plymouth be fixed ?
2Douglas, in 1749, says, “Formerly Cape Cod embayed them, but being
much disturbed, they kept a good offing.” He says, “A whale, stranded back
of Cape Cod, yielded 134 bis. of oil and a proportionate weight of bone.
This whale was so fat that some poor people tried the muscular flesh, and
made 30 bis. of oil.” The shores of the Cape were, within the remem-
brance of persons now living, strewed in places with huge bones of whales,
these remaining unwasted many years. Fifty years back, rib-bones set for
posts in fencing, was no unusual sight. The Pilgrims, on their arrival here,
were unfortunate in having no tackle or implements for capturing this fish;
and they were equally at fault in not taking any cod, which they might
have found in great quantities outside the harbor,—the abundance of
the fish at this point having, long before their arrival, given it the name
Cape Cod.
3 We say few in comparison with former days. They are still taken in
goodly numbers, and the way of bass-fishing at Race Point affords a finely
athletic exercise for chest and limbs. The fisherman stands on the beach
and throws out the line with sinker attached as far as strength will permit,
and then hauls in, dragging a bouncing fish, if the throw be a good one.624
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
tant.1 The mackerel fishery is still pursued both near and re-
mote.2
Shark-fishing has been, in years past, both a business and a pas-
time. Formerly, not less than 200 sharks, whose oil averaged 4
gal. each, were annually taken at Race Point. They are to be
taken with a hook; and being drawn to the shore and dragged
to the beach, their livers are secured and the carcases left to the
tides. These sometimes are caught weighing from 300 to 600
lbs. They were, in times past, fished by strangers who came to
the Point in boats. The number now taken is not great.
Blackfish, in early times exceedingly abundant, — sometimes
called Bottle Whales,3 — after having fallen off many years from
the original supply, have of late years appeared in increasing
numbers.4 The idea of surrounding them, and driving into shoal
1 The first and chief resort was to the banks of Newfoundland, to which
3 voyages a yr. were made, returning, respectively, in May, July, and Oct.;
still later, at the Straits of Bellisle, familiarly known as Labrador. In 1834,
this town had, besides its 400 tons of coasting vessels, about 6000 tons en-
gaged in these fisheries, codfish and mackerel included. The fares were :
of codfish about 45,000 quintals; of mackerel 17,000 bis. No. 1.; and
these fisheries gave employment to 1000 men. A subsequent report, 1837,
mentioned 98 vessels employed in the business, engaging 1113 hands on sea
and shore, and securing 51,000 quintals of codfish, and 18,000 bis. of mack-
erel. Two whale ships also sailed from here, employing 35 hands. The
business has fluctuated, but on the whole greatly increased, and may be
destined to still greater extension. From statistics published in the Prov-
incetown Banner, 1857, it appeared that the year previous, 100 vessels were
fitted out and, for the most part, owned here, for the codfisliery alone.
These vessels averaged about 90 tons, and each carried on an average 8
hands. The amount taken was 80,000 quintals, the number of fishes to
each vessel averaging 28,000; thus giving 2,800,000 fishes, value, at 3.12^
cured, $250,000, and oil to each vessel, 10 bis, at 22.50, $22,500. Total of
fish and oil $272,500; and bounty $28,000; making in all $300,500. It
was estimated that this year about one-half the codfish taken in the State,
had fallen to the share of this town. The average of the time occupied by
each vessel at sea was from 4 to 6 mos. Codfish may still be taken at
Wood End, and elsewhere near; but, as we have said, the reliance for
large success is on remote localities.
8 We may not fill our pages unduly with statistics. The mackerel busi-
ness done here is large. The first mackerel found in Boston market in
spring, are taken here, usually in nets. Formerly, hundreds of barrels of
these were pickled for market every year; they now find a ready market
fresh, when taken in these waters.
^Douglas, 1749, says, “ Grampus, Bottle-noses, and the other small ceta-
ceous kind are called black-fishy See also Purchas, Vol. I. 320-3.
4 Blackfish oil promises no large emolument, but the Provincetown Banner, a
few years since, stated that ten or twelve vessels were then engaged in the busi-
ness of taking it, and remarked, “ It is regarded as about the most certain busi-
ness now followed from this place. Though there are no very great voyages
made from taking this oil, as sometimes in taking sperm, yet it cannot be
said that there has yet been a poor or losing voyage, as in cod and mackerelANNALS OF PROVINCETOWN.
625
water great numbers, as herds are driven, has been acted on from
the days of the early settlers.
Other fish found in the harbor, or on the coast, are haddock,
pollock, halibut, striped bass, turbot, blue-fish, manhaden, tom-
cod, horse-mackerel, shad, etc.1 Of shell-fish, are muscles, sea-
clams, and cpiohaugs.2 Lobsters are found in great abundance on
both sides Long Point; and the taking of these is a profitable
business.
Sea-fowl, once so abundant on these shores, have met with so
frequent molestation that their numbers are much reduced.
The physical peculiarities and the singular configuration of this
part of the Cape, have been so often the subject of remark, and
have been so much dwelt upon by writers, in an isolated and em-
bellished form, that extravagant ideas have been, often, the result
of the perusal of these accounts. A correct impression can be
gained by distant residents only by a visit to the place and by
personal inspection. Even the accurate and judicious remarks of
the eminent theologian and president of Yale College will be
hardly applicable in all their extent to any part of the Cape at
the present day.3
fishing.” Another fish, sought for the liver, is the dogfish. The same pa**
per says, “ They are taken in large quantities of 500 or 1000 to a boat.
One suceessfiil boat recently took 1200 at a trip, affording 30 gals, of oil.
The bodies are sold for composting, to the agriculturists.”
1 Shad, in early times abundant, have within a few years returned to pay
probably only a transient visit. In 1857, about 2000 were taken here in
one day in weirs by a single company.
2The small clam was never abundant here; clam-bait had, therefore, to
be obtained from the towns above. Of late years, other bait has become
generally substituted. Porgies are commonly used.
3 His description of Cape dwellings is perhaps now less applicable to this
town than to some other parts of the Cape; but applicable to none as a
whole. More recent travellers, the credulity and profundity of whom the
driver who takes them along in the public stage-coach, gauges as quickly
and easily as a tailor would take their dimensions, have 'with loving Pick-
wickian fidelity noted down and chronicled things unworthy of regard. If
we go back beyond these, and prior to Dr. Dwight, we find in the Mass.
Mag. of 1791, descriptive hints of changes 'which form a link in the vicissi-
tudes the face of the township has undergone from the days of the May-
flower to the present, which are worthy of record, although the writer’s cred-
ulousness in regard to the manner in which the cows here obtained a sub-
sistence savors a little of caricature : — “A traveller, in passing from
the village over to Race Point, passes some distance through the pine
woods, the trees about 20 ft. in height ; at length he finds the path obstruct-
ed by a mound of sand almost perpendicular, rising among the trees to
their tops. .	.	. This volume of sand is gradually rolling into the
woods with the winds, and as it comes to the trees’ tops, they die. As soon
as the traveller mounts the bank, a curious spectacle presents to view ; a
desert of white sand, 5 miles in length, parallel with the sea, and 1-J m. in.
vol. ii.	79626
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COITCTY.
It may be difficult to imagine the primitive order of tilings when
the Pilgrims found a harbor here, or the feelings of that little clus-
ter of sea-worn exiles upon their landing and brief sojourn. They
have left us the record of some events and observations and grate-
ful emotions and final conclusions ; and we are glad of the data,
scanty as they are which they afford us. Let fancy, guided by this,
invest the flats before the town now covered deep by every tide,
with heavy cedar,juniper, and vines ; the hills and downs with oak,
pine, sassafras, ash, birch, holly, and walnut; the swamps and
morasses also, with vines twining their thick growth of various
woods ; let the mind’s eye fix the position of the Mayflower within
the Point; the launching of the shallop; the first tread of New
England earth by the foot of one after another of that blessed
company; the women finally congregated on the shore near the
usoft-water spring” where Provincetown now is, doing the accu-
mulated washing of the voyage; the men here and there in
groups, and others in the boat going to make more distant explo-
rations,— and some very imperfect view may be conceived of the
happy, but yet anxious state of the company in that hour of sus-
pense, and of the surroundings where some would settle, whilst
others were for a harbor known to fishermen, the description an-
swering to Agawam (Ipswich), and others still listening to
Robert Coppin who was telling them of a good harbor across the
bay.1 The noble harbor in which Cape Cod encircled our Pilgrim
fathers, remains, — its shores now occupied by those who, we
trust, will ever venerate the principles of that Compact to which
the names of brave men were affixed Nov. 11, 1620, O. S., and
who will not cease to remember how the spot was consecrated
by the first prayers and thanksgivings offered on these shores, by
devout souls, who, it is not too much to say, were the founders
of this Republic.
The scene is changed, and is ever changing; but the inhab-
itants, we trust, do not deteriorate.2 Of the enterprise and sea-
breadth. The tops of the trees appear above the sand, but they are all
dead.”
*It was fortunate for this company that here they found good weather and
enjoyed a mild season. Wood’s New England Prospect says, “ The yeare
of Plimouth men’s arrivall was no Winter in comparison.”
2In the harbor, just below the village, stumps of trees may yet be seen, at
least were visible within the last 50 yrs., which are doubtless the remains
of the stately growth described by the Pilgrim adventurers; but these are
all. “ Oaks, pines, sassafras, juniper, birch, holly, ash, walnut,” etc., reported
by them, are looked for in vain. Such have been the geological changesANNALS OF PROVINCETOWN.
627
manship of this people we need say nothing. Of even children,
on the lower parts of the Cape, the little porpoise-killer at Truro
is a fair specimen. Boys are often at sea at a very early age.
Many of them at 10 have become expert fishermen; and all who
have a mind for promotion find their way from the forecastle to
the cabin in due time. Many of our best commanders in foreign
voyages are furnished here. The testimony of Burke, in the
House of Commons, before the Revolution, 1774, in regard to the
mariners of New England, was especially applicable to this and
other parts of Cape Cod : “No sea but what is vexed by their
fisheries; no climate that is not witness to their toils. Neither
the perseverance of Holland nor the activity of France nor the
dexterous and firm sagacity of English enterprise, ever carried
this most perilous mode of hardy industry to the extent to which
it has been pursued by this recent people. ... A more hardy
or enterprising race of mariners is nowhere to be met on the
watery element.”
The climate has been favorable to longevity. Aside
from the numerous instances of disasters at sea and
deaths in foreign ports, inseparable from the avocations
of the male inhabitants generally, the bills of mortal-
ity show that the healthfulness of the place will com-
pare favorably with that of other localities.
In hospitality, the inhabitants ought not to be be-
hind other portions of the Cape, and, we suppose, are
not. The only indication of this that we can cite
from knowledge is the alacrity with which seamen
always hasten to lend a hand to strangers imperilled
on the coast by storms. Even before Provincetown
was, amenities worthy of civilized life were exhibited
here. When Gosnold, May 15, 1602, went on shore
at Cape Cod Harbor, a young Indian, with plates of
copper suspended from his ears, and with bow and ar-
rows in hand, approached him with friendly salutations
and offered his services.
produced, first by cutting down this natural protection, and then consum-
mated by winds, waves, tides, currents.628
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Progress of the Town. — The earliest that now re-
main, are a few pages only of the ancient es Precinct of
Cape Cod” records,1 with which are interspersed here
and there what, we suppose, were intended to be rec-
ords of the town after its incorporation, but these min-
utes are very imperfect. In fact, the only records de-
serving the name commence at a late period, more
than 50 yrs. after incorporation as a town, and more
than 60 after being constituted a precinct.
That Rev. Samuel Spear was officiating here Oct. 16,
is evident from contemporary data; also that he re-
mained here during the first flourishing period of the
settlement, until his flock being scattered abroad he
was obliged to follow.2 But Mr. Spear was not the
first minister; nor is the settlement of the place sim-
ply coeval with any time indicated by records. It
was probably the resort of trading and fishing vessels
from a very early period, and habitations were, doubt-
less, erected. That Rev. Jeremiah Cushing was here
some time before the close of the 17th century is
demonstrable;3 and it is not impossible that the few
residents, and the many transient occupants, enjoyed,
in the season for fishing, the services of others. Al-
1	Unwarrantable liberties appear to have been taken with the records,
both precinct and town. Very many pages have evidently been cut out
from the meagre little quarto designed as a Book of Records; and at a sub-
sequent period a more wholesale sacrilege has doubtless been committed.
Our indignation burns toward the vile perpetrators, quickened, it may be,
by selfish regrets for the deprivation they have occasioned us.
2	Rev. Mr. Spear, b. July 6, 16%, was grad. H. C. 1715, and was son of
Sam‘1 of Braintree, who was son of George.
3Mr. Cushing is the same, probably, who grad H. C. 1676. Records
show that he and wife Hannah had Ezekiel b. here Ap. 28, 1698; and he
had also a son Jeremiah. Ezekiel, early active and prominent in the af-
fairs of the settlement had by his w. Hannah, who was b. Dec. 1, 1703,
seven children, namely, Loring Aug. 10, 1721; Ezek’l June 3, 1724; Jere-
miah Oct. 7, 1729 ; Hannah Feb. 9, 1731-2; Lucia July 13, 1734, d. inf.;
Lucia Dec. 27, 1735 ; and Phebe Ap. 15, 1738. Jeremiah had by Mary
his wife, Jonathan Aug. 25, 1732; Mary Mar. 15, 1733; Luranal735;
Sarah 1737 ; and Hannah 1740.ANNALS OF PROVINCETOWN.
629
most from the time of the arrival of the Mayflower,
the harbor became a place of yearly resort not only of
colonists but of English and French adventurers.
The first entry in the old precinct record, that has been spared,
is the account of John------(John Isaacs it appears to be,)
treasurer, bearing date Ap. 24, 1724, and so mutilated that only
the following is recoverable,1 namely:
1724, Ap. 24, Cash paid Mr. Samuel Spear, salary-----
“	“ for drawing turf around the meeting-
house ----------------;
the next is, 1725, Aug. 11: Paid Mr. Spear, by Thomas Free-
man,2 ------.
The names of others, which appear on these imper-
fect and almost unintelligible pages, or fragments, at
this period, are
John Atwood, John CoxNant, Elisha Doane,
Thomas Bacon, Ezekiel Cushing, Ephraim Doane,3
Hezek’h Bosworth,Robert Davis,	Hezekiah Doane,
Elisha Cobb, Thomas Delano, Jeremiah Hatch,
1	Two years previous to this, we find contemporary records making men-
tion of an occurrence here: The Rev. John Robinson lost his wife Hannah
(Wiswall), and daughter Mary, by drowning, Sept. 22, 1722, the sloop in
which they had taken passage from Duxbury to Boston, being upset by a
sudden tempest near Nantasket beach. The body of Mrs. R. was found
“ in Herring Cove, a little within Race Point,” by Indians, about six
weeks after the catastrophe, and was the next day interred here, in the old
cemetery. The corpse was identified by papers found in her stays and by
a gold necklace which had been concealed from the natives by the swelling
of the neck. A finger had been cut off, probably by other natives to ob-
tain the gold ring which had disappeared. A gravestone was put up by
her husband ; but that has disappeared within the last 20 or 30 years. The
family of Rev. Mr. R. were originally at Dorchester, it is said, and were not
of the Leyden pastor lineage. Descendants from this family, it is also said,
are now in Ct. We have been led, by the preceding mention of “ the old
cemetery,” to inquire for it, and find that it probably has not been used
since 1745 ; but that a few yrs. since, and perhaps now, gravestones were
visible in it, bearing dates 1717, 1727, 1745, etc. We regretted to find the
spot disregarded. It is probable that a little labor might bring to view
monuments, now hidden by sands, that would, of themselves, be an inter-
esting history.
2	Mi*. Thomas Freeman was prob. only here for a short time, and was
prob. s, of Thos. of E., and b. 1676. He had a s. Thos. b. Sept. 3 3, 1708,
who had a son Thomas “ b. at Cape Cod,” Ap. 28, 1731.
3	We are not sure that this is not Deane. Jonas Deane of Scituate,
from Taunton, Eng., had by w. Eunice, Thos. Oct. 29, 1691 ; Eplfm May630
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Elisha Higgins, Benjamin Ryder,1 Chris’r Strout,2
John Kinney, William Sargent, Samuel Winter.
In 1726, William Sargent was treasurer of the
Precinct, and again in 1727.
In 1728, May 8, is recorded the receipt of Mr. Spear
for moneys paid; and the charge of the treasurer,
“June 21, To paid Mr. Solomon Lumbert for one day’s
preaching, £1.” Other inhabitants mentioned at this
date, are:
Isaac Bacon,	John Gray,	Isaac Smalley,
Josiah Cole,	Benjamin Rotch,3 George Strout.
22, 1695 ; and prob. others. Thomas set. in Be., and by w. Lydia, had
Lydia 1728, who m. Jos. Bearse Oct. 12, 1749 ; Thos. Ap. 19, 1730, who
m. Abig’l Horton, and had Hannah 1753 ; and Arehelaus tlune 26, 1755 ;
Jonas Oct. 27, 1732 ; Ephraim Oct. 17, 1734; Wm. May 27, 1736; and
Eunice 1737, and the family soon disappeared from Be. Ephraim, b. 1695
bad w. Ann, and settled here. He had Eunice Nov. 10, 1725 ; Thankful
1728; and Ann 1731. There was Israel in Truro, b. 1685, who m. Ruth
Jones of S.
*We find an opinion traditionally stated, that two brothers Benj. and
another were in this town from England, about 1700. We know not how
this may be; but, as is everywhere patent, the family name was in the up-
per towns much earlier. Mr. Benjamin Ryder of this town had, by his
w. Mehitable, Benj. Aug. 28, 1725; Mehit. 1 729 ; Mary and Anne, gem.,
1732; and per. others. Samuel m. Experience Atwood 1724, and had
Sam’l May 22, 1725 ; Joseph Mar. 29, 1727 ; Desire 1728 ; Joseph Oct. 11,
1730; Lydia 1732; Experience 1737 ; Sarah 1739; and Joshua Ap. 26,
1742. Gershom had by w. Bathsheba Gershom Oct. 1, 1732; Mercy
1735; Thos. July 25, 1737 ; Elisa. 1740; Barsheba 1742; John May 16,
1744 ; and Lot Feb. 10, 1746.
2Christopher Strout had, by Sarah his wife, Lydia Sept. 22, 1701;
and Anthony Mar. 6, 1705-6; and prob. others belore. Anthony m.
Abigail Smally 1724, and had Deborah 1725; Rebecca 1727, d. inf.; Re-
becca 1729; Job Sept. 14, 1730 ; Dan’l Feb. 20,1732-3 ; and Abig’l 1735.
Christopher had, by Mary his w., Mary 1718; Christopher June 26,1720;
Ruth 1723; Dorcas 1724; Wm. Sept. 13, 1726 ; Betty 1729; Priscilla
1732. Joseph m. Rachael Doane of T. 1716, and had Barnabas June 24,
1729 ; Sarah 1731 ; and Hezekiah Jan. 19, 1735. John had by Ruth his
w., Ruth 1736 ; and Eleazer Oct. 29, 1737. George had by w. Kezia,
Geo. Sept. 1, 1730; Isaiah July 28, 1732 ; Kezia 1734 ; and Levi Oct. 21,
1737. Christopher, of Portland, m. Elisa. Smalley, of Provincetown,
1739.
8 We do not assert that this Benjamin Rotch was of the same family or
of the same lineage with those who went to Nantucket early, engaged in
whaling, and transferred their business and residence finally to New Bed-
ford; but, in our own mind, not much doubt remains. He, by his w. Mar-
tha, had four sons born here, namely, William Oct. 23, 1729 ; Prince Nov.
1731; Joseph Nov. 13, 1733 ; and Benj. Nov. 4, 1735. It is well knownANNALS OF PROVINCETOWN.
631
“Mr. Samuel Winter’s account for keeping school
one-half the year,” was £22.10; and his second ac-
that the whaling business in these colonies originated here; how much
Cape Cod contributed to its introduction elsewhere is a question in which
we certainly have no personal or local interest. Cape Cod men, from the
very start, were generally u wide-awake,” and always ready to avail them-
selves of favorable openings for extending their enterprise. That their
spirit of adventure looked toward Nantucket early, depends not for proof
on Ichabod Paddock’s migration alone. But let not the reader, if per-
chance he may be of some neighboring locality, apprehend that we are
claiming for Cape Cod that it is at present, the chief mart of the business.
AVe have had occasion to smile at the circumambiency by which it has
been attempted not simply to establish the claim of rival neighborhoods to
superiority in the enterprise, but by which its origin has been mystified. If
we essay with unbiased historical aim to determine who of the people of
the colonies first engaged in the business of whaling, every one, at all con-
versant with early colonial history knows we must assuredly defer to Cape
Cod and must locate the central point of its enterprise at Provincetown, —
and that at a time when the place was known only as Cape Cod Harbor,
or, by emphasis, simply “ Cape Cod.” From the earliest settlement of any
part of this peninsula, long before either of the places that now contest for
preeminence in the business was settled by white people, Cape Cod was
emphatically the scene and seat of the whale fishery. The year 1690,
when, according to Macy, the historian of Nantucket, the great proficiency
of the Cape people in the art led the island-folk to engage one from hence
to come and teach them, was very far from the date of the incipiency of
the enterprise here, or the people else had not made such proficiency.
From 1620, when it became a question whether the place which Mr. Everett
has called “ the outstretched arm which Providence held forth to enclose
with protecting welcome the Pilgrims of the Mayflower,” should not be
adopted as their permanent residence, —one of the reasons urged in favor
of it being, “It is a place of profitable fishing, large whales of the best kind
for oil and bone,” coming daily along-side and playing about the ship ; so
that the master and his mate preferred it to Greenland whale fishery, and
asserted that, were the ship provided with proper implements, £3000 or
£4000 worth of oil might have been obtained, — the eyes of all Europe
were turned to this point. See Vol. I. 62, 320, 242, 396, et. al. All rec-
ords of maritime transactions connected with the whale fishery at the first
periods of civilization here show the important attitude of Cape Cod thus
early. Indeed, not a town, as settlement succeeded settlement, but was
somewhat actively interested in this business. It requires no circumlocution
to shame the inaccuracy of some not ingenuous philippics that have ap-
peared within a decade or two touching this matter. Cotton Mather, refer-
ring to early settlers of the Plymouth colony, says: “ They have since
passed on to the catching of whales, whose oil is become a staple commodity
of the country; — ivhales, I say, which living and moving islands do find
way to this coast, where, notwithstanding the desperate hazards run by the
whale-catchers in their whale-boats, — often torn to pieces by the strokes of
the enraged monsters, yet it has rarely been known that any of them have
miscarried. And within a few days of my writing this paragraph, 1697, a
cow and calf were caught at Yarmouth. The cow was 55 ft. long: the
bone was 9 or 10 in. wide; a cart upon wheels might have gone into the
mouth of it. The calf was 20 ft. long, for unto such vast calves the sea-
monsters draw forth their breasts. But so does the good God here give this
people to suck the abundance of the seas.” This state of things, so quaint-632
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
count, for the other part of the year, £22.13. The
Treasurer’s charge, “ Paid for underpinning the meet-
ing-house, 12 s.,” is also on record ; and the Precinct
is credited the amount of “ the stranger’s contributions
£1. 7. li.” This sum was probably derived from per-
sons transiently here to fish, or traffic, or for a harbor,
or possibly for pleasure, health, or to look after mer-
cantile interests.1
In 1729, Jan. 20, an entry is made: “ Received from
the town treasurer of Truro, £8. 15. 7.; ” and “ Mar.
12, Strangers’ contribution to this day, £2. 9. 10;”
also of moneys “paid Doct. Bacon for Doct. Dun-
king.” 2
We are sorry to be obliged to present only little in-
cidents ; but they are all we can gather, and must
therefore serve as foot-prints to indicate the direction
and progress. The strangers’ contribution, it will be
understood, was to aid in the support of public wor-
ship.
ly described by Mather, had, when he wrote, been already progressing on
the Cape more than half a century.
1The immense importance of this locality, in times long past, caused it to
be visited by many “ strangers.” To appreciate its importance then, and a
century previous, we must revert to the peculiar order of business but little
known at the present day, and which was in consonance with the habits
even of Old Testament times. Those who were here, came not all, to fish.
As there were merchants upon the Rod Sea as early as the days of Jacob
and the primitive Israelites, Gen. xlix. 13, Deut. xxxiii. 18, 19, and
Judges v. 17, so there were merchants here, periodically visiting and tran-
siently residing, from very early times. Dou(/lass, in his Summary, 1749,
indicates the early manner of conducting the fisheries : “ The fish-ships are
distinguished into Fishing-ships, which by their own men and boats catch
and cure their fish cargoes ; and Sack-ships which purchase their fish from
the inhabitants.” Capt. Smiih, as early as 1G23, intimates the magnitude
the business was even then assuming: he says, “ There fish upon the coast
of Newfoundland about 250 vessels, at a medium of 60 tons, and return a
value of £135,000 sterling, annually;” and he tells us “their method of
sharing at that time: “ to the owners, \for victualling, and to the ship’s
company.”
2Prob. Duncan. Doct. Bacon was prob. s. of Dea. Nath’l of Be., and
b. Sept. 30, 1697. He first removed to Eastham. Doct. John Duncan
of H. m. Lydia Clark July 6, 1719, and 2d, Ivezia Baker of E. 1731, and
had John Ap. 18, 1735.ANNALS OF PROVINCETOWN.
633
In 1731, David Freeman appears as an inhabitant.1
In 1741, Rev. Mr. Spear removed; and the town
being nearly depopulated, and business remaining for
a long time stagnant, no settled minister was had
for many years, although occasionally supplied with
preaching.
In 1747, Rev. Solomon Lumbert — frequently then,
and now generally, written Lombard — was officiating
again, as also the following year. It was “ agreed to
give him this year £25, old tenor, for seven months’
services, in addition to the contribution money, and
also the groats of strangers.” In 1848, Mr. Lombard
was to receive £40 for seven months.
In 1750, it was “ ordered that no bayberries shall be gathered
until Sept. 10, and no cranberries until Oct. 1, each year, under
a penalty of £2 ” for each offence.
In 1756, it was “agreed to petition the Gen. Court
for assistance in supporting a minister.” It was also
“ voted to shingle the meeting-house.”
In 1760,Rev. Mr. Green was the officiating minister;
and, Sept. 13, “to pay Mr. Green for preaching, £25,
old tenor,” was raised.
In 1763, it was “voted to have a minister some part
of the summer; ” and £80, old tenor, was raised “ to
defray the expense.”
In 1765, Rev. Jonathan Mills was “employed to
preach.”2
In 1773, Dec. 7, Rev. Samuel Parker was here; and
it was “ voted to give Mr. Parker £66.13. 4, lawful
money, as a salary, also the frame for his house, 27
ft. wide, 30 ft. long, and 8 ft. in the walls, and his
firewood cut, and meadow for two cows.”3
1	Our conjecture is that this David Freeman was s. of Samuel of E.f
and b. Jan. 28, 1699, and m. Ruth Freeman Feb. 15, 1728-9.
2	Rev. Mr. Mills grad. H. C. 1723.
8Rev. Mr. Parker, b. 1741, of Barnstable, grad. H. C. 1768.
VOL. II.	80634
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1774, Jan. 20, Rev. Mr. Parker was ordained, and
instituted minister of the town. It is understood that
after the removal of the former and only regularly
settled pastor, Rev. Mr. Spear, the church had become
nearly extinct by the depopulation of the place, and
that a reorganization was now found necessary.1
Whether a new meeting-house was built about this
time does not appear; but records show that 66 the
pews were sold,” Dec. 1, as follows: —
No. 1, To Sam’l Cook, Edward
Cook, and John Cook.2
“ 2, To John Kilburn and
Thos. Kilburn.
“	3, To Silas Newcomb3 * * * * 8 and
Jno. Conant.
“ 4, To Neli’h Nickerson and
Capt. Kelley,
w 5, (Prob’ly minister’s pew.)
“ 6, To Phineas Nickerson &
Rd. Perry.
No. 7, To Sam’l Atwood and
Lot Ryder.
“	8, To Joshua Parse and
David Newcomb.
“	9, To Seth Nickerson Jr.
“	10, To Seth Nickerson Jr.
and Elizur Nickerson.
“	11, To Thomas Ryder and
Solo. Cook Jr.
“	12, To Benja. Ryder and
Eben. Ryder.
1 At what time the original church was formed does not appear, nor does
any surviving record fix the exact date of the settlement of Mr. Spear.
During the first twelve years of Mr. Parker’s ministry the Gen. Court
granted £45 per annum toward his support, “ in consideration of the im-
portance of the place to the interests of navigation, and the difficulty of
keeping it peopled.”
2Mr. Josiah Cook, b. in E. 1670, s. of Josiah, and g. s. of Josias, the
first on Cape Cod, had by w. Mary, Desire 1694; Deborah 1696; John
Ap. 9, 1698 ; and Mary 1700. John of P. had, by w. Desire, Mary 1728;
John Aug. 23, 1730 ; and Jabez June 17,1732. Joshua m. Zervia Hatch
1724, and had Joshua June 10, 1725; Elnathan Ap. 15,1727 ; Elisa. 1729;
and Martha 1731. Jacob had, by w. Mary, Eben’r Dec. 2,1731. Solo-
mon had, by w. Rebecca, Mary 17*33 ; Solo. Sept. 12, 1737 ; Rebecca 1740;
and Edward Ap. 29, 1746. Solomon had, by w. Rebecca, John C. Jan.
4, 1760; Rebecca Aug. 1, 1762, by w. Elisa.; and Solo. Aug, 12, 1764, by
w. Baty.
8Mr. Thomas Newcomb, prob. s. of Thomas of E., andb. 1697, had, by
w. Hepzibah, Sarah 1723; and Silas Ap. 19, 1725. Thomas, prob. the
same, had by w. Mercy, Hepzibah 1734; Peggy 1736; Betty 1738; Thos.
Sept. 30, 1740; Mary, 1743; and Jenah 1745. Silas m. Susanna Kil-
burn Aug. 4, 1748, and had Susanna 1750 ; Jeremiah Nov. 8, 1753 ; Sarah
1755; Mary 1758; and Silas Dec. 16, 1761. Jeremiah, by w. Rachel,
had Andrew June 11, 1778 ; Eben. Dec. 24, 1781; Reuben Aug. 6, 1783;
Kate 1785 ; Rachel 1788 ; and Jeremiah July 19, 1 794. Silas had by w.
Azubah, Levi Jan. 1, 1791. Elisha of W. m. Pliebe Nickerson of C. Oct.ANNALS OF PROVINCETOWN.
635
Besides the above pews, “ground for a pew by the men’s
seats ” was sold to Stephen Atwood ; and “ ground for a pew be-
hind the women’s seats ” to Seth Nickerson; also, in the same
location, to Stephen Atwood.1
In 1775, Jan. 10, it was ordered, “for every dog that comes
into the meeting-house on the Sabbath-day in the time of meet-
ing the owner shall pay one-half dollar or kill his dog.” It
was also “ voted that every man fetch one burden of brush by
the last of February, or forfeit 11 lbs. of fish.” It does not
clearly appear for what use these fardels of brush were intended;
they were, doubtless, to be spread upon the ground around the
meeting-house to prevent the drifting of the surface.
The absence of any allusion whatever to the excit-
ing topics of the day, during the whole Revolutionary
period, is remarkable. We find absolutely nothing.
For this we can account only by reference to the pe-
culiar and entirely defenceless situation of the town.
The mutilated state of the records has also suggested
to our own mind the conclusion that the records them-
selves were, until after the close of the war, as exposed
as the place itself. We think there must have been a
neutrality yielded to necessity ; but a desire, in respect
to earlier records, for concealment, judged expedient.
In 1779, Feb. 22, a meeting was held, the action of which
would seem to indicate that the sale of pews for five years pre-
vious was a merely temporary arrangement for a limited period;
or that more pew-spots were created by substitution for common
seats. It was now “ agreed that the front aisle be 2 ft. 9 in.
28, 1765. See note on the catastrophe 1772, in Annals of Chatham. Sim-
eon of E. m. Grace Harding of C. Ap. 12, 1757.
*Mr. Stephen Atwood had by his w. Sarah, Jona. Aug. 2, 1731;
Stephen Dec. 25, 1733; Martha 1736; Rebecca 1738; Sarah 1740; and
Susanna 1743. Henry had by w. Thankful, Thankful 1729 ; Kezia 1733 ;
Henry Oct. 11, 1735; and Elisa. 1737. Joseph had by w. Lydia, Lydia
Sept. 8, 1733. Joshua had by w. Sarah, Sam’l Aug. 24, 1735 ; Mary
1745; and John Mar. 24, 1756. Jonathan had by w. Nabby, Rebecca
1757 ; Nathan Aug. 11, 1759 ; Hannah 1763 ; Henry Mar. 8, 1766 ; Nabby
1769; Jona. Nov. 20,1772; and James June 2, 1776. Samuel had by
Barsheba, Joshua July 3, 1767 ; Henry Sept. 9, 1768; Sarah Dec. 26,
1769; Mary 1773 ; Sami June 4, 1776; Elisa. 1779; Bathsheba 1781;
and John Sept. 11, 1784.636
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
wide, and the front seats below be made 3 in. nearer, and that the
ground in the meeting-house be sold, to make pews, and that the
sale be by vendue.” The spots for pews sold as follows : “ To
Seth Nickerson Jr.,	the first pew	on the left hand, for	$200.
“	“	“	“	“	“	next adjoining,	180.
Elijah Nickerson,	“	“	“	on the right hand,	235.
Phineas Nickerson,	“	“	“	next adjoining,	205.
Silas Nickerson, the uppermost pew in the long gallery on
the right hand side,	66.
John Burgess, the next pew in the long gallery on the
right hand side,	61.
Samuel Atwood, the next adjoining,	58.
Thomas Kilburn, “	“	“	59.
Seth Nickerson, the uppermost pew in the front gallery,	186.
Solomon Cook Jr., the next “	“	“	“	172.
John Conant, the uppermost pew in the men’s long gallery, 80.
Joshua Atkins, the next	“	“	“	“	“	81.
Samuel Ryder, “	“	«	“	“	“	“	156,
each purchaser to pay by the 1st of July, or forfeit his pew.”
In 1780, it was “voted to raise Mr. Parker’s salary £1000.”
In 1781, Jan. 8, Messrs. Stephen Atwood, Seth Nickerson and
Solo. Cook, Jr. were app. to agree with Mr. Parker what he shall
have for his salary this year.” A com. was chosen “ to see that
the boys do not play in meeting,” etc. The former vote in ref*
erence to the fetching of brush was renewed; and it w*as voted
to repair the meeting-house.
In 1782, Feb. 18, it was “voted- that rates be paid either in
money or fish, by June 1; and that Seth Nickerson have the fish
in keeping until sent to market.” An order was made “ for the
preservation of Mill Pond meadow.”
The town app. Messrs. Seth Nickerson Sr., Elijah N.
Cook, and Edward Cook a com. “ to petition the Gen.
Court for liberty to obtain a protection from the Brit-
ish Government for occupying the business of fishing
and bringing the effects into the adjacent States.”
Left by its own government without means of defence,
it is very evident that this town could do but little for
its country in the eventful struggle of the Revolution ;
and it is equally clear that without being permittedANNALS OF PROVINCETOWN.
637
to assume a position of neutrality, the people could
do little for themselves.
Messrs. Stephen Atwood, Solo. Cook and Thos. Ryder were
app. Dec. 4, a com. on Mr. Parker’s salary.
In 1783, the amount raised for the ministry was £70.
In 1786, it was ordered “ that each man fetch brush to the
meeting-house1 on or before the day appointed, or pay the pen-
alty for neglect; ” also, “that if any person be found gathering
cranberries before Oct. 1, he or she shall pay £5, old tenor.”2
In 1788, July 15, Rev. Mr. Parker was chosen agent “to rep-
resent to the Gen. Court the circumstances of the town, and ob-
tain a relinquishment of the State tax.”
In 1791, Sept. 12, a com. was chosen to petition government
for the removal of the duties on salt. It is remarkable that to
this time, during all its privations and exposedness, and notwith-
standing 20 or 30 vessels found opportunities for employment in
the cod-lishery, not a vessel or man had been lost since the com-
mencement of the war.3
In 1792, Jan. 5, the town petitioned to have its State
tax abated, and for assistance in building a new meet-
ing-house. The town appropriated for the building,
£110.
In 1793, the project of a new meeting-house was
still under consideration, and subscriptions were obtain-
ed from residents, in shares of £7.10, each, — a total
of £157.10, as follows: from
Joseph Atkins,
Silas Atkins,
Henry Atwood,
Steph. Atwood,
Sam’l. Baker,
Solo. Cook,
Barn’s. Freeman,
Micah Gross,
John Kinney,
Josh’a A. Mayo,
William Miller,
Eben. Nickerson,
1	This confirms the impression that brush was collected from time to time
to be spread upon spots of ground needing protection from the winds.
2	These berries were abundant in the bogs which were claimed as com-
mon property.
3	The town at this time contained 100 families, whose sole dependence
was their avocations upon the seas. The year previous to the above date,
1790, ten vessels took 11,000 quintals on the Grand Banks. It is a trifling
incident to mention, but serves to illustrate the existing state of things, that
at this date there were owned in town but 2 horses, 2 yoke of oxen, and 50
cows.638
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Edna. Nickerson,
Elijah Nickerson,
Enos Nickerson,
€reo. Nickerson,
Seth Nickerson Jr.,
Steph. Nickerson,
Wm. Nickerson,
Jon’a. Nickerson,
and in J shares, of d
Josiah Nickerson,
Joseph Nickerson,
Martha Nickerson,
Nathan Nickerson,
Phineas Nickerson,
Seth Nickerson,
David Ryder,
!.15 each, — a total o
Rd. Ryder,
Sara’l. Ryder,
Thos. Ryder,
Thos. Small,
Taylor Smalley,
Robert Soper,
John Whorf; —
£75, as follows: from
Joshua Atwood,
William Bush,
Edward Cook,
Elisha Cook,
Jon’a. Cook,
John Cook,
Pardon C. Cook,
Sam’l. Cook,
Solo. Cook Jr.,
David Kilburn,
Silas Knowles,
Allen Nickerson,
Jas. Nickerson,1
Reuben Orcutt,
Rich’d. Perry,
Seth Smith,
Seth Smith Jr.,
Theoph. Thomas,
Th os. Watkins,
David Young.
1 The name of Nickerson has prevailed to such an extent, in several of
the Cape towns, that it is difficult to furnish a genealogical table that shall
be satisfactory. It is understood that the families first here were from
Chatham and its neighborhood. The earliest mention of the name here, in
the record of births, is that of Mr. Jonathan Nickerson who, by wife
Sarah, had born to him Seth May 28, 1734. We will only venture to pre-
sent some isolated extracts from the records of this and several other towns,
which may possibly be suggestive to such as would investigate : — Jonathan
of Chatham, had by his wife Jane, Judith Ap. 9,1720; Jane 1722, Jon.
Jan. 14, 1723-4 ; and Simeon Ap. 10, 1727. Samuel of C. & H. had, by
wife Hannah, Meliit. Jan. 10,1708-9; Shabar Aug. 26,1710 ; Sam. Feb. 22,
1711-12; Benj, Sept. 1714; Barn’s. Nov. 7.1716 ; and Joshua June 16,1719.
John of C., had by wife Mary, Elisha Mar. 7, 1706. Ebenezer of H.,
had by wife Elisa. Alary Aug. 3, 1727 ; Hannah 1728; Alary 1730 ; Elisa.
1732; Seth Oct. 21, 1737 ; and Nathan Nov. 22, 1739. Seth, of Pro-
vincetown, had by wife Alartha, Jon. July 5, 1754; Stephen Sept. 6, 1756;
Alartha Alay 7, 1759 ; Joshua Dec. 7, 1761 ; Seth Ap. 17, 1764; Rebecca
Aug. 25, 1766; Bethia 1768; Ruth 1771; Sarah 1773 ; NathT. Dec. 24,
1775 ; and Reuben Nov. 21, 1777. Seth of P. m. Alary Smith of C. Alar.
19,1761, and had Hannah 1762 ; Nathan Dec. 11, 1763; Eliz. 1 766 ; Eben.
Aug. 17, 1768; and Enos Sept. 19, 1770. Seth of P. had, by wifePhebe,
Seth Feb. 23, 1791. Seth of P. had, by wife Isabel, 4 drs.; Seth Jan. 4,
1791; and Jesse Sept. 18, 1792. Enos of P. had, by wife Deborah, Nehe-
miah K. Feb. 11, 1783. Phineas of P. had, by wife Susanna, Jane Dec.
12, 1757. Stephen of P. m. Hannah Eldridge of C. Oct. 13, 1781.
Jonathan of P. had, by wife Bethia, Abig. Aug. 26, 1777 ; Isaiah Alar. 13,
1779; Jonathan Aug. 19, 1781; Elisha July 15, 1783; and Levi Nov. 2,
1785. Elijah of P., had by wife Jemima, Josiah, Nov. 7, 1770; Elijah
Aug. 7, 1772, d. inf.; Elijah Aug. 29, 1774; Joseph Sept. 27, 1776;
Hannah 1782; and David Sept. 11,1785. Joshua of P. had, by wife
Rebecca, Isaac Aug. 28, 1784; Joshua Sept. 10, 1786; Rebecca Nov. 9,
1788; and Abraham July 25, 1791. Allen of P. had, by wife Polly,
James C. Nov. 13,1784; Rebeccal786 ; and Allen Feb. 2,1789. NathanANNALS OF PROVINCETOWN.
639
In 1794, “ a mortal sickness prevailed in town, — supposed to
have been caused by the carcasses of a large number of sharks
left putrefying on the shoresnear the village.”
In 1795, a Free-masons hall was built by King Hiram’s Lodge.
In 1798, the town decreed that a penally of $10 be exacted for
all cattle found at large on Long Point. The town also ordered
“ that a platform of plank be laid in front of the meeting-house ”
The subject of mail facilities was entertained, and the town re-
solved to petition the general government “ for a post to come
down the Cape ” 1
In 1799, the town memorialized the Legislature, “ acquainting
the Gen. Court with the disturbance that is likely to arise con-
cerning the support of the Methodist-poor; ” and Mr. Seth Nick-
erson was appointed to present the memorial.2
In 1800, the salary voted Rev. Mr. Parker was $300.
In 1801, small-pox made its appearance here, and excited much
alarm. A hospital was provided, — a private dwelling being
used for the purpose ; a high, close fence was erected around the
premises ; the hospital physician was prohibited going about the
town ; all assemblages were forbidden ; the schools and places for
public worship were closed; dogs and cats were by municipal order
summarily despatched, and hogs and sheep interdicted from run-
ning at large, under a penalty of $50 ; a smoke-house for general
fumigation was provided, and other precautionary measures
adopted.
In 1802, the Methodists, who had appeared for a
time to be increasing, were reduced in number, making
only 12 families.3 Their prosperity after this will be
of P. had, by wife Sarah, John Dec. 11, 1786 ; and Nathan Nov. 5, 1790.
We might extend these suggestions; but must leave other data we have
collected respecting this very numerous and respectable name for another
occasion.
Ht seems to us, at the present day, incredible that no postal facilities had
existed here at so late a period.
2	We are not disposed to be very minute in our notices of ecclesiastical
difficulties, or of the inroads made upon the ancient order of things by the
introduction of new sects; nor have we been anxious to acquaint ourself
with all the circumstances of the case. The first preacher of the Methodist
order, it is said, came here within the last decade of the last century, prob.
abt. 1790-2, and preached at the house of Mr. §am’l Ryder. Opposition
to the introduction of new sects was developed, and much party strife was
the sequence. The first located here was Mr. McLane.
3	Among those who removed from the place were Messrs. Samuel Ryder,
Richard Ryder, Eben. Ryder, Jno. Kenney, Wm. Reade, Simeon Bates,640
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
the more apparent. Eev. Alexander McLane came and
exercised his ministry here about this time.1
In 1803, a municipal regulation, of sanitary precaution, provid-
ed that “ all carcasses of whales, sharks, horse-mackerel,” etc., be
towed, within a given time, beyond low-water mark by those who
land them.2
In 1805, the town petitioned for a lighthouse on Race Point.
Mr. Josiah Nickerson died, April 3.
In 1806, the building that had been provided by the town as a
hospital was used as a poorhouse.
In 1807, the meeting-house was again repaired, and the pews
were resold.3
Jesse Kilbourne, David Kilbourne, Solomon Collins, and Hy. Atwood, who
are said to have settled on the Penobscot River; and Chs. Atkins and Chs.
Atkins Jr., who settled at Mt. Vernon, Me.
1	The compulsory exactions of the law, in regard to the payment of minis-
terial rates, were the cause of much complaint. That there was, at this
period, a peculiar aptitude for change in the minds of many throughout
New England, is obvious; the cause is a question which it is not our prov-
ince here to discuss.
2	The produce of oil from fish of various kinds was at this period very
considerable. The amount ordinarily obtained from different species may
be rated, on an average, as follows: From a right whale, 20, 40, 80, or 100
bis.; from a humpback, 15 to 50 bis.; grampus, 1, 2, or 3 bis.; blackfish,
about 1 bl.; shark, from 1 gal. to 7 or 8 bis.; porpoise, about 2 gals.; a
boat-load of dog-fish, 1 bl. From other fish, oil was obtained, but the pre-
ceding are most important. The estimate of the various yield of oil by
sharks may seem to some readers to propose a large maximum; but, accord-
ing to Mr. Emery’s account in the Provincetown Banner, June 4, 1857, the
data is appropriate not to former days only. He describes a shark captured
that year near the entrance of the harbor, — having become entangled in
mackerel nets off Long Point, — of “ the species sometimes called Bone
Shark,” and which he denominates “a Sea Elephant.” This shark, he
says, measured about 31 ft. in length, breadth of tail or flukes 7 ft., circum-
ference in the thickest part 16 ft., and the liver weighed probably not far
from 2 tons and yielded about 7 bis. of oil, worth then about $200.
3	There were at this date, “ the one meeting-house only, and that small;
a building used for a freemasons’ lodge and town school; and 180 dwellings;
and 44 sailing vessels belonging here were at sea, — chiefly fishing at the
Straits of Belleisle, — all of which returned without loss, with cargoes
amounting to 50,000 quintals.” The traveller represents the houses at this
time as standing, as they generally do at present, “ near the water’s edge,
on the side of the ridge of hills that everywhere border one side of this
part of the peninsula.” He says, “ There was under foot the deep white
sand, driven by winds like snow, so that heaps were sometimes piled against
the houses, and, but for the contrivance of raising them on piles, they were
in danger of being buried; a passage being left under the flooring prevent-
ing such catastrophe. Two or three willows had been planted, whose roots
struck deep and attracted the moisture below. There were also a few
houses scattered in hollows where were pools and morasses, and their loca-
tion secured a fine atmosphere in summer compared with the undue heat of
the main settlement where the reflection had no vegetable correction.”ANNALS OF PROYINCETOWN.
641
In 1808, the town petitioned the Legislature for an act protect-
ing lobster fishery against the incursions of non-residents. The
town also memorialized Congress and the President of the IT.
States, setting forth the embarrassing condition of commerce, and
asking a repeal of the embargo laws. The petition represented
the situation of this town as peculiar, its interests being almost
entirely involved in navigation and the fisheries, — the soil not
admitting of cultivation, and the property of the inhabitants con-
sisting chiefly of vessels and the products of their voyages,— the
sales of which could not be effected except at a ruinous loss with-
out a foreign market, and were of a perishable nature ; the vessels
also, lying unemployed, were decaying and becoming worthless.
The memorial adds, “ We are ready to manifest our patriotism by
making every necessary sacrifice for the good of our country; we
have yielded unlimited respect and submission to the laws with-
out evasion ; but we are distressed by embarrassment.”
In 1809, the Legislature was petitioned. The
embargo on all ships and other vessels in the ports and
harbors of the United States had made the condition
of this town so distressing, that they now sought from
the State some amelioration.
In 1810, the representative to the Gen. Court was
elected on the following conditions : “ The person elect-
ed to represent the town shall have $10 for his attend-
ance at said Court during the year; shall there attend
to the town’s business; and shall give bonds to the
town previous to the return of his election being made,
to indemnify the town from all charge for representa-
tive pay for said year, except the aforesaid sum of $10
which the town is to give him; and the overplus he
shall refund to the town when it shall receive a precept
from the Treasurer of the Commonwealth, stating the
amount of said representative’s pay. ” These were cer-
tainly hard conditions; but it will be noted that the
town was without a representative this year.
In 1811, the Rev. Samuel Parker, pastor of the
81
VOL. II.642
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
ancient Cong. Church, died, Apl. 11, se. 71;1 and the
Methodist Society was this year incorporated.
In 1812, what the embargo had failed to accomplish,
the war consummated; the town became greatly de-
pressed. A lobster act was obtained this year.
In 1813, a town-meeting was convened, Dec. 10, “ to
take into consideration the present unhappy situation
of the town by reason of the war, and to devise means
for the enemy’s demands in future, if the town be obliged
to comply with them.” Messrs. Jona. Cook, John
Whorf, and Joseph Atkins were chosen a com. of
safety.
After the close of the war, the town increased more
rapidly than ever before, both in population and
business.
In 1817, Nov. 19, Rev. Nathaniel Stone was installed
over the Cong. Church.2
In 1820, Mr. Joseph Atkins was chosen delegate to
the convention for revising the Constitution.
In 1522, Mr. Orsemus Thomas died, Nov. 2; and in
1823, Mr. Nathaniel Nickerson, town clerk, died.
In 1826, the United States acquired land at Long
Point for a lighthouse.3 4 Capt. Lemuel Cook d., Jan. 25,
1828, m. 422
In 1833, a Universalist Society was organized here.
1	Rev. Mr. Parker, who was here at a period somewhat earlier than his
settlement, m. 1st Mary Smith of this town, Jan. 4, 1785, and had Samuel;
she d. and he m. 2d Eunice Hinckley, dr. of Sam’l, Esq., of Barnstable.
2	The Rev. Mr. Stone wasb. in Dennis, and grad. H. C. 1795.
3	It is said that the government obtained a deed of the site from the
town. An arrangement was doubtless also made with the State, and with
its concurrence a quit-claim was probably given by the town. AVe know
not how this may be; but the township being the property of the Province,
titles, first obtained by possession and improvement, had usually been trans-
ferred by quit-claim. In course of time, building lots assumed good prices.
4	Capt. Lemuel Cook, b. 1706, s. of Jona., d. in San Jago; he was
father of Mrs. Jairus H. Hilliard, who was Emily, and grandfather of John
D. Hilliard, of Boston.ANNALS OF PROVINCETOWN.
643
The first minister was Rev. J. B. Dods ; the edifice built
as a “ Union meeting-house ” became theirs.
In 1835, the sum appropriated for common schools
was $600. Mr. Jonathan Cook died, Aug. 2, ae. 82.1
In 1837, the town voted to receive its proportion of
the surplus revenue, and raised $700 for schools. The
Rev. Nathaniel Stone’s connection with the Cong.
Church was dissolved f and from this time the pastorate
remained vacant some years.3 The ancient church, in
fact, became nearly extinct. The Methodists had made
inroads upon the old parish, and a large and prosperous
society of this denomination of Christians was the re-
sult ; next came the Universalists, and still diminished
numbers clouded its prospects. Rev. Messrs. White,
Myrick, Alderjian, and perhaps others, were in succeed-
ing years either pastors or supplies; but the ancient
order of things had passed away for the time being.
In 1838, the town assembled and chose a committee
to attend on a delegation sent in behalf of the State to
inquire into matters connected with the Province lands;
the town com. consisted of Messrs. Jno. Atkins, Eben.
Atkins, and Nathan Freeman 2d. In Feb., this year,
plank sidewalks were laid along the principal street
in town, about 2 m., at a cost of about $2000. Mr.
Gamaliel Collins died Mar. 29, 1839.
In 1840, the town petitioned Congress that “ pro-
vision be made for sick and disabled seamen that are
or may be left here; ” and hospital privileges were
'Mr. Jonathan Cook, b. July 22, 1753, son of Solo, and Rebecca, m.
Mercy Tilton, dr. Philip and Desire, Ap. 16, 1773, and had Patty 1773 ;
Dadd N. Aug. 29, 1776 ; Jona. Feb. 23, 1780 ; Philip Oct. 15, 1781 ; Be-
thia 1784; Lemuel Sept. 13, 1786 ; Edward and Sally, gemini, Mar. 16,
1789, the last d. inf.; and Sally 1792.
2	Rev. Mr. Stone removed to Maine, and died.
3	The population at this time was 2049, — making 438 families, of whom
1087 were males and 962 were females.644
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
granted. The number of scholars entitled to the benefit
of the common schools this year, between the ages of
4 and 16, were 562 ; and the amount raised for schools
was $1000. Mr. Silas Atkins died, Feb. 4;1 and Mr.
Solomon Cook, Mar. 28.
In 1844, school-houses were built on improved plans,
—	each two stories, with convenient rooms above and
below for recitations, connecting with the main rooms,
and furnished with globes, maps, and various apparatus,
—	at a cost of about $10,000; a measure highly
honorable to the town.
In 1845, the Legislature was asked to empower the county
commissioners to cause a jail to be erected here. The prayer
of the petitioners was granted, and the jail was built. For schools,
this year, $1250 was raised.
In 1847, the sum of $2000 was raised for schools.
In 1849, $2500 was appropriated for schools.
In 1850, regulations, as at other times, were adopted for the sup-
pression of intemperance.
In 1851, a Town-house on High Hill was ordered to be built,
at a cost of about $14,300 ; and $2,800 was raised for schools.
In 1852, Mr. Thomas Nickerson died, Jan. 4; Mr. Lot Paine,
May 11; and Mr. Stephen Hilliard, Aug. 2.
In 1853, additional regulations were adopted by the town for
the preservation of cranberry vines; and $3,100 was raised for
schools, $600 of which was fora high school. Mr. Henry Paine
was chosen delegate to the convention for revising the Constitu-
tion.
In 1854, the sum of $3,500 was voted for schools.
In 1855, leave having been obtained to construct a bridge from
this town to Beach Point in Truro, an appropriation was made
for that object. The bridge was built at a cost of about $9,000,
of which this town paid about one half, and the town of Truro
and the county the balance.2
*Mr. Silas Atkins had, by wife Bethia, Isaiah Oct. 16, 1786; Bethia
Feb. 20, 1789 ; Martha June 5,1793 ; and Joshua Mar. 16, 1795. Joseph
had, by wife Ruth, Joseph June 28,1789; Freeman Oct. 8,1790 ; and Ruth
Feb. 25, 1793.
2 We are informed that the county contributed about $2000 to this erec-
tion, — $500 to the aid of this town, the balance to Truro. The bridge soonANNALS OF PROVINCETOWN.
645
In 1857, a project which had often before been seriously agitat-
ed, namely, to dike the East Harbor-meadows of Truro and this
town, was again entertained, and preliminary measures were, this
spring, adopted to accomplish it, — the people conceiving that the
work would greatly tend to the preservation of Cape Cod Harbor,
upon which constant inroads were being made by moving
sands.1
suffered injuries from winds, ice, and tides, needing frequent and extensive
repairs. The conviction, too late, was that it would have been economy to
have erected a more substantial structure, though at a much greater cost.
1 To this plan forcible objections were made by some, and the project was
as earnestly espoused by others. Some doubted both its expediency and
practicability. They contended that the only possible protection of the
harbor from deterioration and destruction was to be obtained by strength-
ening the tract of beach between the ocean and East Harbor. It was al-
leged that in the notable storm that destroyed the lighthouse at Minot’s
Ledge near Boston, more than half the point of beach here was overflowed
for half a mile next to the channel of East Harbor, and that the tide went
over the beach which separates the ocean from the meadows. Another in-
stance was cited of a storm when not less than eight shipwrecks occurred
on the back of the Cape between Highland light and Race Point, and the
overflow was not only as already mentioned, but the sea broke over the
beach in two places, near where wrecks lay, carrying timber washed from
the wrecks with it. Another instance, occurring in Mar. 1854, showed a
similar overflow, — a boat-house on the beach between the ocean and the
meadows, although standing on a bank covered with beach grass, 15 ft.
above high-water mark, being broken up and washed entirely over into the
meadows, whilst the bank itself was much broken. Other views, however,
prevailed, as appears by Legislative action, May 9, 1857. A com. on mer-
cantile affairs and insurance, to whom the petition of the selectmen of this
town had been referred, reported, — having gathered some singular statistics
from a previous report of a Legislative com. made in 1853, namely, that the
narrow beach, to which reference is made above, consists of loose sands
driven about and thrown into heaps like snow-drifts by every high wind;
and that winds from points N. E. to N. W. drive these sands directly into
the channel of East Harbor, a strong current conveying them thence into
the N. E. part of Cape Cod Harbor; the ocean on the north side in every
storm washing the narrow beach, which is the only barrier to prevent the
entire isolation of Provincetown from the main, and the current on the
south side undermining and destroying it. Of this beach, the report says,
“It has narrowed, within 7 or 8 yrs., from 8 to 10 rods; where the mail-
stage travelled only one year since, is now the channel with 6 ft. of water
at low tide, and from 12 to 14 at high water.” The com. of 1857 advised,
since the simple planting of beach grass is not effectual, that the plan, above
cited, of the inhabitants be considered and thoroughly examined,—“ the plan
being to construct a solid pier or wall from Beach Point in Truro, across the
mouth of East Harbor. The distance there is about 1600 ft. over flats, ex-
cept a narrow channel. .	.	. Such a work is eminently deserving the
action of the general government. The harbor it will preserve is one of
the most important in the United States, sufficient in depth for ships of the
largest class, and with a safe anchorage for a fleet of three thousand ves-
sels” Whereupon a resolve, providing for a scientific examination of the
premises, with the view of presenting the subject to the consideration of the
next Congress, was passed. The survey of Provincetown Harbor and of646
HISTORY OF BAKNSTABLE COUNTY.
The inhabitants, considering themselves greatly inconvenienced
by their remote position from the custom-house of the district,
resolved to adopt measures to secure the establishment of a dis-
trict for collection of revenue in the lower part of the county,the
office of collector to be located here ; and a committee was app.
by the town, to act in the premises.1
The inhabitants of this town are certainly a most enterprising
and energetic people, although they have imputed to their “ own
good-nature ” their “long endurance of great inconveniences.” 2
It is no disparagement of them to say that they are also an
ambitious people.3 Their improvements for the convenience of
the coast, under the direction of the U. S. by Major J. D. Graham, U. S.
Top. Eng., and assistants, as published, is a good work, and the chart is an
interesting document.
*By referring to the Provincetown Banner of May 21, 1857, we are im-
pressed with the importance of this location. Under the head of marine
journal are mentioned the arrival, from the lGth to the 19th, of one steamer
and 7 schooners; the departure, from the 14th to the 19th, of one steamer
and 7 schooners; and as being in port one day, among others, 51 fish-
ing vessels ready for sea and waiting for weather. In addition to these,
were 3 whaling vessels on the railway, repairing; 1 coaster, and three
large fore-and-aft coasters anchored in the offing. The meeting, in their
doings, contrasted their grievances with those of their “ Gloucester brethren
who would not submit to be controlled by the Salem custom house only a
dozen miles distant, but stated their position to Congress and obtained re-
lief ; ” whereas here, those connected with or interested in commerce were
“ 50 m. from the office of the collectorship of the district and suffering con-
stantly loss of time and pecuniary sacrifice by intercommunication.”
2	From the high hill in the rear of the town, also at the east part of the
harbor, cars have been for years employed in bringing down sand by rail-
ways to the wharves, for the purpose both of making land and especially to
furnish ballast for vessels. Many thousand tons are thus annually supplied.
The rail-wa'rs incline just sufficiently to dispense with motive power except
in starting. A mountain of earth has already been removed, and additional
house-lots have been furnished thereby.
3	The citizens have often expressed surprise at the policy and propriety
of overlooking their own town as the most suitable point for the erection of
a monument in memorial of the Pilgrim Fathers. They say, “ the jumping-
off place, as in derogation it has been sometimes called, was, in fact, the
original jumping-on place,” and that “ the Pilgrim monument should here be
reared.” The superior advantages of their harbor have ever been contem-
plated by the inhabitants with just pride. This year, 1857, their paper
says, “ We may suggest, with some propriety, since the project of harboring
the Great Eastern at Portland has been abandoned, or so reported, that she
be brought into this harbor, the only one perhaps in the United States into
which she could come and turn ronnd under full headway with all ease.”
The same paper says, “ Our village has presented quite a cottonish aspect
during the present week, th« cargo of the Jenny Lind, which came ashore
on the back side of the town, being conveyed across to our port to be re-
shipped to Boston.” These items may be significant of coming events.ANNALS OF PROVINCETOWN.
647
the traveller are worthy of much commendation.1 Capt. Benja-
min Crocker died this year, Aug. 5, se. 57 ;2 Mr. Ebenezer Nick-
erson of Boston, merchant, a native of this town, died at Wal-
tham, Oct. 24,1858, se. 87 ; and in 1859, Mr. Stephen Cook died,
Jan. 8, se. 73.
In I860, this town might be pronounced, beyond
contradiction, one of the most enterprising and flourish-
ing in the county.3 Mr. Samuel Soper died Dec. 8.4
1	The attention of the towns on the Cape having for several years been
directed to a thorough work of improvement of roads, the whole distance
from the depot of the Cape Cod Railroad in Yarmouth to Provincetown is
becoming a hardened and graded highway, — a luxury, compared with for-
mer times, to those who pass over it. Nor is it too much to expect that, at
no distant day, the magnetic telegraph, now extending to this place and
communicating with distant cities, will be found standing by the side of the
track of a railroad the entire route, perfecting all modern conveniences of
intercommunication.
2	We inadvertently, in arranging matter for the printer, on the issuing
of Yol. I, (see Yol. I. 654,) made the date of the wreck of the schooner
Bonita to be 1847, whereas, wre are kindly reminded by John W. Emery
Esq., editor of the Banner, now of the Republican, that it was Jan. 19-20,
1857. Such,” the courteous editor, in his issue of that date, says, u has
been the severity of the storms that we have been unable to get a mail for
some days, and it has been with difficulty even that our citizens have been
enabled to go from one side of the Cape to the other. Our harbor is par-
tially frozen over, and there seems to be a general blockade, as we can get
no communication with the metropolis, by sea or land. CliaiuPer’s mail
team is starting as we write, for the first time in ten days, and tne packets
Melrose and W. Holmes are starting out, with the hope of reaching Boston,
if the ice in that harbor does not prevent them. When the news from the
other parts of the Bay reaches us, we shall expect it to be freighted with
many a sad and awful tale of death and destruction, briefly but pointedly
recorded each in a few lines of the marine lists.”
3	The returns of the number of barrels of mackerel inspected in the State
this year, were: Beverly, 237 ; Boston, 32,127 ; Chatham, 4,514 ; Coliasset
11,980; Dennis, 7,094; Gloucester, 97,992;. Harwich, 5,485; Harwich
Port, 4,405; Hingham, 11,773 ; Newburvport, 6,805; Plymouth, 119;
Provincetown, 19,350; Rockport, 5,561; Truro, 286; Wellfleet, 27,350;
Yarmouth, 633. Total, 235,406. These statistics do not, however, convey
the full amount taken by Provincetown vessels, as part was inspected in
Boston. Nor is the mackerel fishery comparable with that of the cod-fish-
ery. Of blue-fish, 790 bis. were inspected here, 693 in Dennis, and 115 in
Chatham. In 1862, the returns comprising all but two or three of the ves-
sels entitled to bounty, the statistics of the codfishery showed the following
result: Provincetown, 74 vessels employed, 62,181 quintals cured; Well-
fleet, 6 vessels, 3,160 quin.; South Dennis and Harwich, 36 vessels, 17,437
quin. ; Chatham, 28 vessels, 18,395 quin. Total, 157 vessels, 107,548 quin.
The statistics for 1861 showed, in these towns, an aggregate of 164 vessels,
105,336 quin. Add Barnstable, 10 vessels, and 6,375 quin., and the total
was 174 vessels, and 111,711 quin.
4	Mr. Robert Soper and wife Isabella had Samuel July 21, 1791; and
Elizabeth 1793.648
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1861, Mr. Jonathan Kilbourne died, July 5, se. 72.
In 1862, Mr. William E. Tupper died in his country’s
service, at Newbern, N. C., se. 24.2 Capt. Richard A.
Cook died, June 23, as. 58; and Capt. Phineas Paine,
June 25, se. 58.
In 1863, Mr. Benjamin Lacy died, Aug. 15, ae. 83.
We are gratified in being able to say that the national
government seems no longer to incline to leave this im-
portant locality entirely defenceless. If there was, in
times past inevitable necessity for this people to adopt
the policy —
“ To their wills we must succumb,
Quocunque trahunt, ’tis our doom,”3
there should be cause for it no more. The inhabitants
are eminently loyal to their country. None more so.
Whether the government will prosecute the defences
that are being attempted, to the extent and magnitude
that the importance of the position demands, is yet to be
revealed. With suitable fortifications, and a railroad
connecting the place with other parts of the State, the
harbor would, in case of foreign war, be of inexpressi-
ble value to our navy. Without such means of pro-
'Mr. Thos. Kilbottrne, by w. Baty, had Baty Aug. 10, 1746 ; and m.
2d, Mehit. Ryder Ap. 7, 1748, and had Thos. June 26,1750 ; Mehit. 1752 ;
Ruth 1755 ; Andrew May 12, 1757 ; Wm. Aug. 11, 1759 ; and David Nov.
14, 1761. William had, by w. Mary, Wm. Sept. 11, 1785.
2 Mr. Tupper was son of Nathan, formerly of Barnstahle.
3Hudibras puts this into the mouths of the tories of the Revolution.
They, too, yielded to necessity, when they found the Whig cause triumphant,
and many of them finally came in, obsequiously, to make pretences of pa-
triotism. We use this quotation here in a more honorable sense. Those, for
whom, long years after the period of ’76, it became fashionable to claim the
softened soubriquet “ moderate whigs,” were, de facto, would-be tories. We
fear they have many imitators at the present day. Their moderation pains-
takingly made known to all men, they would probably soon leave the fence
for the side where their hearts are, were the opportunity given with reason-
able hope of impunity. The inhabitants of Provincetown were simply
forced to neutrality. Their hearts were, doubtless, with their country ; and,
though precluded from active effort as a town in her service, were never,
so far as known, against her interests.ANNALS OF PROVINCETOWN.
649
tection and defence, the noblest aspirations of patriot-
ism must inevitably be restrained, its efforts crippled.
Before proceeding to the closing statistics of this
town — the tables of representatives and town officers,
— we submit a brief comment on the existing state of
national affairs at the time of our present writing. The
great question which has been for several years in course
of solution, Whether the Union under which succes-
sive generations have lived and prospered, can endure,
still engrosses the public mind. If this momentous
question must be decided in the negative, the fondest
hopes of Revolutionary sires were but dreams, alas,
illusory. That such question should have arisen — the
fruit of revolt — is deeply to be deplored; but great
good is often educed from greatest evils.
“What cause
Mov’d our grand parents in that happy state,
Favor’d of Heav’n so highly, to fall off
From their Creator ”
reveals the occasion of present troubles; and if an
institution long entrenched behind State-sovereignty
and enjoying immunity because patriotism forbore
interference, has, after becoming more and more exact-
ing, been emboldened to deeds of daring that were
destined to be the signal for its own destruction, and
for the demonstration of that great axiom which the
Declaration of American Independence intended to as-
sert, — that all men are created politically equal, — the
non-recognition of which great theorem has generated
a constantly disturbing element, — we cannot hesitate
to recognize in the result a proof of that which the
pen of inspiration has left on record: “ A man’s heart
deviseth his way, but the Lord directeth his steps.”
Our fathers struggled seven years for the privilege of
trying the experiment of free institutions. In battling
VOL. ii.	82^50
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
to preserve them, in full knowledge of their value,
afforded by nearly a century of unexampled prosperity
and happiness, we may humbly hope that the God of
our fathers will be our all-sufficient help. A rebellion
formidable, unprecedented, most unjustifiable and wick-
ed is not quelled ; but progress, thank Heaven, has been
made.
representatives.
Yrs.
1810.	Joseph Atkins,	2.
1811.	Sam’l Cook,	1.
1812.	Simeon Conant,	1.
1813.	Dan’l Pease,	2.
182(5. Thos. Ryder,	1.
1827.	David Ryder,	1.
1828.	Isaac Small,	0.
1833. Elisha Young,	1.
1834.	John Atkins,
“ Enos Nickerson,
1835.	Win. Galiica,
18-3(5. Godfrey Ryder,
“ Joshua Cook,
1837. David Ryder Jr.,
1839- David Cook, 2d,
1841. Steph. A. Paine,
Yrs.
7.
3.
1.
1.
1.
2.
1.
2.
Yrs.
1843.	Thos. Lothrop,	1.
1844.	John Dunlap,	1.
1845.	James Gifford,	2.
1846.	Steph. Hilliard,	2.
1850. Jos P. Johnson,	5.
1852.	Henry Paine,	1.
1853.	Elisha Tilson,	1.
1856. Nath’l E. Atwood,	1.
SELECTMEN.
1747.	John Conant,
“ Thos. Newcomb,
1748.	Elisha Mayo,
Caleb Conant,
1749.
1751.
1753.
1756.
1757.
1758.
1760.
1762.
1763.
.Iona. Nickerson,
Solo. Cook,
Tiios. Kilburn,
Eben. Nickerson,
Sam’l Smith,
Joshua Atwood,
Gershom Ryder,
Benj. Ellis,
Seth Nickerson,
Sam’l Cook,
1767.	Solomon Cook,
1768.	Tiios. Ryder,
“ Sam’l Atwood,
1709. Pliin’s Nickerson,
1770. Neh’h Nickerson,
1772. Steph. Atwood,
1775. Seth Nickerson Jr.,
1782. Steph. Nickerson,
“ Edw. Cook,
1784. Reuben Orcutt,
1786.	Joshua A. Mayo,
1787.	Elijah Nickerson,
1789.	Sam’l Ryder,
1790.	Richard Perry,
1791.	Chs. Atkins,
Yrs. 6.	1797. David Ryder,	Yrs. 1.	Yrs. 1833. John Atkins, 4.	
1.	“ Josiali Nickerson,	3.	“ Gamaliel Collins,	4.
2.	1799. Eben. Nickerson,	3.	1834. Elisha Dyer,	1.
0.	“ Tiios. Ryder,	8	1830. Nathan Freeman 2d,	4.
2.	“ Silas Atkins,	2.	1837. Eben. Atkins,	1.
2.	1801. Steph. Nickerson,	4.	1838. Lot Paine,	2.
12.	13(4. Jos. Nickerson,	1.	“ Benj. Ryder,	2.
3.	1800. Daniel Pease,	4.	“ John Dunlap,	2.
7.	1807. Benj. E. Atkins,	2.	1840. Parker Cook,	1.
2.	1808. Joseph Atkins,	2.	1842. Dauiel Small,	2.
1.	“ Orsemus Thomas,	5.	1844. Steph. Hilliard,	4.
1.	1809. John Wliorf,	1.	1845. Jos. I\ Johnson,	0.
3.	1811. Paran C. Cook,	2.	1847. Eben. S. Smith,	2.
11.	“ Simeon Conant,	7.	1848. Lem’l Cook,	3.
15.	1813. Natli’l Nickerson,	3.	1849. Timo. 1*. Johnson,	2.
4.	IMG. Elisha Young,	11.	185’. Joan Adams,	2.
5.	“ Abr’m Smalley,	1.	“ Joshua Paine,	5.
2.	“ Eph’m Cook,	0.	1853. Joshua E. Bowley,	2.
7.	1818. Isaac Smalley,	12.	“ Narli’l Holmes,	2.
8.	1820. John Cook Jr.,	3.	1855. Joshua Lt*wis,	1.
., 7.	1822. Asa S. Bowley,	5.	“ Benj. Allstrum,	2.
3.	1828. David Brown,	1.	ls50. Arteinas Paine,	3.
2.	“ Thos. N ickerson,	0.	“ Jesse Small,	4.
2.	1829. Elisha Holmes,	1.	1857. Eben. Cook,	4.
7.	“ Clias. A. Brown,	3.	1859. Epaphras Cook,	2.
2.	1830. Sam’l Cook,	1.	1800. J. P. Johnson,	2.
4.	“ Sam’l Soper,	4.	1801. Robert Soper,	3.
4.	183'. Enos Nickerson, 1832. Seth Nickerson Jr,	2.	“ Abraham Chapman.	i 3.
1.		3.	“ Simeon S. Gifford,	3.
TOWN TREASURERS.
1728. Ezekiel Cushing,	Yrs. i2.
1749. Thos. Kilburn,	18.
1751. John Conant,	1.
1701. Eben. Nickerson,	1.
1703. Joshua Atwood,	7.
1782. Sam’l Atwood,	6.
1747. Sam’l Smith,	Yrs. 2(5.
1773. Sam’l Atwood,	23.
1790. David Abbott,	3.
Yrs.
1787. Joshua A. Mayo,	6.
1793. Steph. Nickerson,	3.
1790. William Milier,	17.
1811- Seth Nickerson,	2.
1815. Nath’l Nickerson,	9.
TOWN CLERKS.
Yrs.
1798. Josiali Nickerson, 8.
1800. Orsemus Thomas, 8.
1811. Sam’l Cook,	2.
1823.	Thos. Ryder,	Yrs.
1824.	Rufus Conant,	5.
1829.	Asa S. Bowley,	5.
1834.	Chas. Nickerson,	1.
1835.	Elisha Dyer,	29.
1810.	Asa S. Bowley,	Yrs. 18.
1834.	Cha1-!. Nickerson,	1
1835.	Elisha Dyer,	29.THE
ANNALS OF THE TOWN
O F
WELLFLEET.
“Few people have extended their inquiries after the foundation of their rights
BEYOND A CHARTER FROM THE CROWN. OTHERS THINK WHEN THEY HATE GOT BACK TO OLD
MAGNA CUARTA, that they are at the beginning of all things ; they imagine
THEMSELVES ON THE BORDERS OF CHAOS, AND SEE CREATION RISING OUT OF THE UNFORMED
mass. Hence, say they, spring all the rights of men and citizens.”—James Otis.
(651)Jfttsmptioir
TO MR. EDWARD MATTHEWS,
OF NEW YORK:
It is a good sign, and of happy augury, when the absorbing occupations, whether ol
the counting-house, or other laudable pursuits, do not disqualify for sympathy with
labors of a more abstract and intellectual character which pay no pecuniary interest
and yield no tangible dividend ; when men of business-talent and agreeable success
are disposed, by benefactions delicately bestowed, to invest in stocks that are never
called at the brokers’ board — turning their thoughts from the bustle of strife and the
fever and competition of the busy and sordid world, to encourage or requite the toils
of Letters and the Arts. “ Ars longa, Vita brews” is a saying old and trite, but preg-
nant with meaning that lives in demonstration and affects the memory of man when
the mere achievements of Mammon are forgotten.
It is, therefore, with pleasure that these Annals of one of the Towns of his native
County are, as above, respectfully
INSCRIBED
To Utfs who has not been unmindful of the value of local history,
With the kind regards of
THE AUTHOR.
(652)ANNALS OF WELLFLEET.
Wellfleet, included formerly in the Indian Ponona*
Jcanet, remained a part of the town of Eastham until
May 25, 1763, when it was incorporated a District
u with full powers and privileges like other towns, —
save that it ” was “ to be for the present joined with
the latter town in the election of a representative ”
Situation, Boundaries, etc. — It is situated E. by S. from
Boston, the distance by land being 95 m., and by water 65 m.;
from Plym. by water, 24 m.; and from Barnstable, by the county
road, 31 m. It is bounded on the S. by Eastham and Wellfleet-
Bay; N. by Truro ; E. by the Atlantic Ocean ; and W. by Barns-
table Bay. Its length is about 8 m., and in breadth it is from 2
to 3 m.
Natural Divisions, Surface, etc. —The harbors are three,
each having about the same depth, which is about 12 ft., at high
tide, and are safe, affording facilities for the uses in which they
are employed by the inhabitants, — admitting vessels of 70 or 80
tons. River Harbor, the northerly part of Wellfleet Bay, general-
ly called the outer-harbor; Duck Creek Harbor, near the centre
of the town; and Blackfish Creek, opening into the south part
of the bay, are each of importance to the business interests of
the place.
The principal divisions of the town, as regards settlements, are
North Wellfleet, situated, as its name would indicate, in the
northerly portion of the township; South Wellfleet, lying
nearly S. E. of the former; and Fresh-Brook Village, lying
S. of the last named.
From the table-lands of Eastham is a range of hills extending
(653)654
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
through this town, Truro, and Provincetown, to Race Point.
West, and in range of these hills are several ponds, namely, Duck
Pond, in the centre of the town, 15 fathoms deep, perfectly round,
with a beautiful shore of white sand ; Hopkins Pond, \ m. further
north, of about the size of the preceding, but not so deep ; Great
Pond, 1 in. in circumference, having several smaller ponds flow-
ing into it, abounding with red perch ; Long Pond, about 20 rods
distant from the last named, which also abounds with fish, and
has near it the village formerly known as Lewis’s neighborhood ;
Turtle Pond, between Long and Hopkins’; Gull Pond, large and
beautiful, If m. in circumference, abounding with perch and being
in their season the resort of alewives, lying at the eastern extremity
of Hunt’s Hollow, near the east side of the Cape; Newcomb’s
Pond, also on the E. side, and connecting with Great by a small
stream; Herring Pond from which issues Herring Brook yielding
large quantities of alewives in their season; and Squier’s Pond
situated in Duck Creek village, also affording fish. Besides these
are others less important.
The Islands, four in number, are Bound Brook Island in the N.
W. corner of the township, surrounded chiefly by a creek only,
and containing some dwelling-houses, — the island formerly cover-
ed by a heavy growth of wood of which only a few scattered trees
remain; Griffin’s Island, S. of the preceding and being like it
about 2 m. in circumference, and containing dwelling-houses;
Great Island, 3 or 4 m. in circuit, ^ m. S. of the last, and being
the extreme west part of the township; and Lieutenant’s Island,
on the W. side of Wellfleet Bay and S. of Blackfish Creek Har-
bor, having a circumference of about 2 m.
The soil, except in the N. W. part of the town, is light and
sandy, so much that in many places no vegetation appears,
although the most barren parts were once covered by a heavy
growth of timber, — oak and pine, which was used in ship-building.
About one-third of the township is still covered with young
wood, chiefly pines; the eastern section of the town is wrooded
to the very edge of the smooth sandy beach which the ocean
lashes.
In the township are also large bodies of salt marsh, — more
than sufficient for the sustenance of the stock kept by the inhabi-
tants. Little English hay is cut. Some grain is raised, but not
enough for home consumption ; still, meadows are, from time to
time, being made by filling-in swamps with sand ; and productive
gardens exist.ANNALS OF WELLFLEET.
655
The employments of the male inhabitants are almost entirely
connected with the ocean. The cod and mackerel fisheries have
always been extensively prosecuted here ; more than 100 vessels,
some years, being engaged in the business. For the accommoda-
tion of those thus employed, are several wharves and packing
establishments.
The whaling business was, in early times, carried on extensive-
ly here, and in the taking of whales none were more expert than
the Indians then inhabiting the neighborhood, whose services
were always in‘demand. This fishery, once the chief employ-
ment, was lucrative ; and by it some large properties were acquir-
ed.1 But little has been done here in whaling since the Revolu-
tionary period;2 except that occasionally the species of whale
called black-fish make their appearance and are taken;3 orperad-
venture a whale of the larger kind is seen to blow in Barnstable
Bay, possibly in Wellfleet Bay, or Provincetown Harbor, which is
the signal for sport that is generally successful.
Oysters were formerly found here in the greatest abundance,
and were of a superior quality. Large quantities of them were
taken to market, yielding a handsome revenue ; but, from some
unknown cause, in the year 1775, nearly all the oysters in the bay
TCapt. Smith, in his voyage to these parts, 1614, had reference primarily
to the whale fishery; next, the search tor mines of gold and copper; and,
in event of failure in this search, fish and furs. But he says, “ We found
this whale fishing a costly conclusion. We saw many, and spent much
time in chasing them, but could not kill any.” He obtained about 60,000
cod, the fruit of a month’s fishing by 18 men. He obtained also, during his
various voyage, about 10,000 beaver, 100 marten, and as many other skins,
procured by natives at small expense. These peltries, to be sure, were not
all found in these localities; his voyage embraced an extended range. But
he made himself somewhat familiar with the coast, and, as is well known,
amused himself in making a chart and writing down all the particulars he
could gather of the country to which he gave the name of New England,
the name it now bears, though he was unsuccessful in perpetuating other
names given by him to different parts. Cape James, he intended, should su-
persede Cape Cod, but Gosnold’s designation of the extreme of this penin-
sula continued to prevail.
2	The Revolutionary war inflicted almost total ruin on this place. The
number of inhabitants became diminished, some captured to die in prison-
ships, and many removing to the Penobscot and other parts. The business
of the town, when it began to revive, became almost entirely changed.
3	Rev. Levi Whitman, formerly the minister here, says, in a communica-
tion to the Hist. Soc. of Mass., 1793, “ I have seen nearly four hundred of
these fish lying dead upon the shore at one time. Their size is, when full
grown, from 4 to 5 tons weight. When these fish come into Wellfleet Bay,
they are quickly surrounded by men in boats and driven to the shore, as
easily as sheep are driven on the land. The average of oil is a barrel
each.”656
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
perished, and the genuine Billingsgate oyster has since that time
been but rarely obtained. The town, however, is still noted for
this delicious bivalve ; and immense quantities are carried hence
to Boston and other cities. The fish is supplied by importations
from the South — brought and laid in the harbor where they soon
acquire the flavor and richness of the old Billingsgate oyster, and
in a single year double their size. The business is one of magni-
tude. In bringing the fish to the planting-grounds, and in the
removal of them after probation, many vessels are employed.1
Fast-sailing and commodious packets ply between this place
and Boston, and other vessels are employed in bringing lumber
and wood from Maine.
The abundant supply of sea-fowl and shore-birds, for which the
town was noted in olden time, is not exhausted, although greatly
diminished.2 Fish, in their varieties, remain.
The climate is not unfavorable to health and longevity;3 the
*Not less than 60,000 bushels was the average of oysters transplanted here
annually many years since; the present extent of the business we are una-
ble to define statistically.
2	Mr. Whitman, in his paper to which we have referred, published by the
Hist. Soc. in 1793, relates singular methods, which then prevailed, of catch-
ing gulls, and of killing small birds upon the beach. Both he supposed
were of aboriginal origin. To take the former, a u gull-house ” was built,
crotches being fixed in the sand, surmounted by poles with convenient ap-
ertures between, and slightly covered with sea-weed; the sides enclosed by
stakes with sea-weed intertwined; and on the top of this structure were
placed lean parts of whale or other fishes. A person within, undiscovered
by the birds, would soon find great numbers alighting, busy in eating and
contending for the spoils, and might draw them in by the feet through inter-
stices. The smaller birds, that perch on the beach at night, were allured by
torch-light, and killed by a stick or walking-cane, or caught by a small dip-
net, ad libitum.
3	Storms sweep over the settlements on the extremity of the Cape with
much force, and impart to the atmosphere the saline qualities of the sur-
rounding waters; but the number of persons who have lived here to an
advanced age is great. In 1793, when the population was about 1200, the
deaths for 9 years previous had averaged about 16 each year, including
casualties, the proportion of deaths being about as 1 to 75; and, of these,
48 d. under 1 yr. ;
19 others under 5 yrs.;
2	“	“	“10 yrs.;
5 betw’n age of 10 & 15 ;
15	“	“	15 & 25;
10 betw’n		age of25 & 35;		2 betw’n age of 75 & 80 ;		
12	u	u	35 & 45;	3 “	u	80 & 85;
4	u	it	45 & 55 ;	5 “	it	85 & 90;
7	a	a	55 & 65 ;	1 “	a	90 & 95 ;
10	a	a	65 & 75;	2 “	it	95 & 100.
Of the preceding, 21 d. away from home, 6 of them being drowned; 4 others
were drowned at home; 5 others d. by other casualties; 2 of small-pox; 4 only
of fevers ; in child-bed 1; of consumption 25 ; and of old age 7. In 1793, the
deaths were 18, including 1 drowned, — which, added to the 145 deaths of 9
previous years, made a total of 163 in 10 yrs., giving an average of 361^ yrs.,
including the great number who died infants. Mr. Whitman mentions one in-ANNALS OF WELLFLEET.
657
inhabitants are generally robust and vigorous.1 The enterprise
of the people is proverbial; and the town is one of the most
thriving in the State, and, in proportion to its population, one of
the wealthiest. The population, in 1855, was 2325.2
There are in this town three meeting-houses, — two being Con-
gregational and one Methodist. The other public buildings are a
Town Hall, High-school and District school-houses, Poor-house,
etc.
Progress of the town. etc. — By the act of incorpora-
tion, May 25, 1763, it was ordered that John Freeman
Esq., of Eastham issue his warrant to some principal
inhabitant of the district requiring him to call the first
meeting of the inhabitants for the choice of town
officers and the transaction of business. The warrant
was directed to Maj. Elisha Doane, and the legal voters
assembled at the time appointed, Aug. 4,1763. Samuel
Smith Esq. was chosen to preside, and the usual town
officers were elected.
Before proceeding farther, however, with doings and
events after the organization, it may be here proper to
note preliminary proceedings:
At a meeting of the North Precinct in Eastham, held Mar. 9,
17G1, it was “ voted, That Capt. Elisha Doane be agent to get
this North Precinct of Eastham set off as a District;” and, “for
the more speedily and amicably doing which,” it was agreed that
certain of the free holders of said precinct should send a petition
stance of extraordinary longevity,— Mrs. Mary Treat, whose maiden name
was Lyon, born in a village near London; who, when in her 100th yr.,
although oblivious to recent occurrences, retained a perfect recollection of
early days, and gave a very minute account of the coronation of Geo. I.
which she had witnessed.
*Mr. Whitman, 1793, says, “many of the male inhabitants have spent
more than half their term of life on ship-board. Mr. John Young who d.
ae. 85, spent 50 years of his life in whaling.”
2Mr. Whitman, 1793, says, “There have been within the memory of
those now living, born in this town, small as it is, 32 pairs of twins, and 2
triplets.” He supposes the proportion of births to deaths had been, up to
that time, as 3 to 1. In 1730, when a Precinct, the pop. wasGOO. In 1764,
when a District, 928; in 1766 when it became fully a town, 965; in 1775,
it was 1235; in 1790, it was 1113; in 1800, it had reached 1207 ; in 1.810r
it numbered 1402; in 1820, 1472; in 1830, 2044 ; an l in 1840, 2377.
vol. ii.	83658
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
to the proper authorities of the town of Eastham, — which memo-
rial was in substance as follows:—“The petition of us, proprietors
of the North Precinct of the town of Eastham, humbly sheweth:
That whereas we labor under many and great difficulties in our
present situation, as well by reason of our great distance from the
usual place of said town’s meetings, as on many other accounts,
— too many to be here mentioned; to remedy which the said
precinct, at a meeting legally warned, chose an agent with instruc-
tions to enter a petition in the Gen. Assembly of this Province
that this precinct be made a District; and as it was thought ex-
pedient by the said precinct, for the more speedily and amicably
accomplishing the same, to request said town to vote us off as a
district: We, whose names are under-written, humbly pray that
you will insert a clause in your warrant for a town-meeting to
know the minds of the town, whether they will vote the said pre-
cinct off as a District, or otherwise show cause, if any there be,
why the prayer of your petitioners should not be heard. East-
ham, Aug. 3, 1761.”
This paper was signed by Elisha Doane, Jeremiah
Mayo, Samuel Smith, Zoheth Smith, Jonathan Hiller,
Eleazer Atwood, Joseph Atkins, James Atwood, Richard
Atwood, and Daniel Cole.
In compliance with the aforesaid petition, the town
of Eastham consented, “ that the Precinct be set off
as a District, as fiir as Blackfish Creek.”
Upon this, another meeting of the Precinct was held,
Nov. 1, 1762, and a com. of seven was app., viz. Sam.
Smith, Jer. Mayo, Hezekiah Doane, Elisha Holbrook,
Zoheth Smith, Reuben Rich, and Samuel Smith 2d, to
assist the agent; and these with said agent, Capt.
Elisha Doane,addressed their petition “to his excellency
Francis Bernard Esq., Captain General and Governor
in Chief in and over His Majesty’s Province of the
Massachusetts Bay in New England, and to the honora-
ble His Majesty’s Council and House of Representatives
in General Court assembled.”
In their memorial they state that the town of East-ANNALS OF WELLFLEET.
659
ham is so continuous that there are necessarily three
houses for public worship nearly in a line from north
to south, and that the central one where the chief
business of the town is enacted is nearly ten miles dis-
tant from the meeting-house of the said North Precinct,
and that the major part of the inhabitants of said pre-
cinct live still further north of said house, — many of
them on islands, and that it is, on account of the distance,
difficult and expensive for them to enjoy the privilege
of franchise and other rights of townsmen.1 They
suggest that the privilege of the fishery may remain as
hitherto to the whole town; and that, since it is under-
stood to be the desire of one individual living just
within the bounds of the North Precinct to remain with
the South Precinct, his wish be granted.
Order of notice having been served on the town of
Eastham, and said town having appointed Capt. Solomon
Pepper as its agent to make answer to the petition,
the respective agents appeared at Gen. Court on the
second Wednesday of May Sessions, as ordered, and
the court referred the hearing to a com. consisting of
Dea. Foster of Plym., Doct. Smith of Sandwich, and
Col. Clapp of Scituate, — of the Ho. of Reps.; and to
Col. Bradford of Kingston, and Col. Otis of Barnstable,
— of the Council. This committee reported in favor
of the prayer of the memorialists, and a Bill was
brought in — resulting in Act of Incorporation.2
1It will be understood that at this time Eastham embraced both the
town of Orleans on the one hand and Wellfleet in the opposite direction.
2 “An Act to incorporate the North Precinct in Eastham into a District
by the name of Wellfleet.
“ Whereas the Inhabitants of the North Precinct in E. in the Co. of Be.,
have represented to this Court the great difficulties and inconveniances they
labor under in their present situation, and have earnestly requested that
they may be incorporated as a District : — Be it therefore enacted .	.	.
that the N. Precinct in E. in the Co. of Be., according to the known bounds
of said precinct, be, and hereby is, inc. into a District by the name of Well-
fleet ; excepting the estate of Silvanus Snow and the inhabitants dwelling660
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In accordance with the act, we have said, the organiza-
tion of the town was effected. The town officers chosen
Aug. 4, 1763, were Maj. Elisha Doane, clerk; Maj.
Doane, Dea. Reuben Rich, and Sara. Smith Jr., select-
men ; Maj. Doane, treasurer; Eph. Covel, Eben. Atwood
and John Swett, assessors; Zoheth Smith, constable;
with, in addition, the usual complement of tithingmen,
surveyors of highways, fence-viewers, hog-reeve, pound-
keeper, sealer of leather, sealer of weights and measures,
culler of staves and hoops, surveyor of boards and
shingles, brander of pickled fish, and wardens.
Maj. Doane, Eph. Covel, and Sam. Smith Jr., were
app. a com. to settle all affairs between the town of
Eastham and this district; also to settle with Mr.
Zoheth Smith, the late precinct treasurer.
It is creditable to the inhabitants that the very first
act of the district, at the very first meeting warned after
the organization, was, Aug. 29, the raising of money “ for
the support of the ministry and schools,” <£121.13.4
or who shall dwell thereon which are to remain to the town of Eastham and
to the South Precinct in said town, said Snow paying his just proportion of
all past taxes in said north precinct that remain unpaid: — And that the
said district be, and hereby is, invested with all the privileges, powers, and
immunities that towns in this Province do or may enjoy, excepting the
privilege of choosing a representative to represent them in the Great and
Gen. Court; in choosing of whom the inhabitants of said district shall join
with the inhabitants of the said town of Eastham as heretofore hath been
usual; and also in paying said rep.; the selectmen of the town of E. from time
to time to warn the inhabitants of the said district of the time and place of
meeting for the choice of a rep., by issuing their warrent to one or more of
the constables of said district requiring them to warn and give public notice
thereof to the said inhabitants : — Provided, nevertheless, the said district
shall pay their proportional part of all such town, county, and Province
taxes as are already assessed on the town of E.; and also reserving to the
inhabitants of said town the privileges by them heretofore enjoyed of all
ways to and of erecting houses on the beaches and islands for the conveni-
aney of the fishery of all kinds, and of anchorage, and of landing all goods
or wares at any of their common landing places in any of the harbors of
said E. in like manner as they might have done if this Act had never been
made and passed: — And be it further enacted that John Freeman Esq.
be, and he hereby is, empowered to issue his warrant to some principal inhabi-
tant of said District, requiring him to call the first meeting of said inhabi-
tants in order to choose such officers as by law towns are empowered to
choose in the month of March annually.”ANNALS OF WELLFLEET.
661
being voted for these purposes. It was next voted to
raise also £120 to be appropriated to such uses as the
district shall determine; and a new road and bridge
over and from Duck Creek was ordered.
The Rev. Isaiah Lewis was now, as he had been since
1730, the minister here;1 and, although we do not pre-
tend to apprehend the obligation to the transaction, we
may mention, as indicative of a disposition on the part
of the inhabitants to deal equitably with their spiritual
guide, that at the same meeting mentioned above, it
was “ voted that Rev. Mr. Lewis have out of the treas-
ury £1 lawful money, for his carpenter’s loss of time
when building his house.”
The new road was laid out, and the bridge ultimately built.2
It is worthy of notice that at the next meeting, Nov. 10, it was
proposed “ that Mr. Lewis ask for a collection, or contribution,
for the support of” — no matter whom ; it is sufficient to say,
a poor man needing assistance. It was “ voted that the select-
men engage the schoolmaster, and allow him £13.6.8 and board
to keep the school six months.” Other provisions were also en-
acted to promote the usefulness of the school. At this early day,
1	Rev. Mr. Lewis, it will be seen by reference to Annals of Eastham,
was settled here Sept. 23, 1730, at which time a Church was organized.
Rev. Josiah Oakes had preceded him, having been settled July 29, 1723;
leaving in 1727 ; —but, for some reason, no church was gathered here until
the day of Mr. Lewis’s ordination. Mr. Oakes was s. of Hon. Thos. of Bos-
ton who died here July 15, 1719, ae. 70, and was interred in the old burying
ground. Rev. Mr. O. who grad. H. C. 1708, d. 1732, ae. 44, and was
buried here beside his father.
2	For the building of the bridge, “ Samuel Smith Esq. and Major Elisha
Doane gave wood standing on their lots, sufficient for one-half, and Rev.
Mr. Lewis gave the timber for the other half.” The road was laid out thus :
“ Beginning at the King’s highway a little to the eastward of the N. E.
arm of Duck Creek; running over sd. arm, as the cart-way now is, until it
comes to the southerly side of Wm. Atwood’s dwelling; still westerly, as
the cart-way goes, by the northerly side of Eph’m Atwood’s house; still
westerly, as the cartway goes, to the southerly side of Rev. Mr. Lewis’s
house ; still westerly, over the Pound Hill, to the southward of Jos. Atkins’
house; then south-westerly along the head of the meadow near the upland
bank until it comes to the bottom of the hill leading toward Daniel Mayo’s
house ; still southwesterly, as the cart-way runs, between Dan’l and Sam’l
Mayo’s dwellings and their orchard fence, to the southerly side of a swamp
near Dan’l Mayo’s barn;—forty feet wide from the beginning to the end
of the road.”662
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
there was a general absence of school-Aowses, but not of schools.
To accommodate all in the best manner possible, it was “ agreed
that the school shall be kept first at James Atwood’s, 5 weeks;
then at Joseph Atkins’ 5 weeks; then at Joseph Perce’s 5 weeks;
then at Zoheth Smith’s 5 weeks; and then at the Widow Doane’s
the remainder of the six months; or at places thereabout.”
In 1764, other improvements were projected. It was ordered
that the new Duck Creek road be extended.1 A committee was
chosen to propose a plan for the enlargement of the meeting-
house.
In 1765, an article in the warrant for the annual town-meeting,
calling for some action to suppress “the sale of so much strong
drink,” inserted “ at the request of seven freeholders,” was con-
sidered ; but the proposition for further action was negatived, the
majority being of the opinion that “ the law has provided already
proper measures ” to that end.2 It was ordered that the meeting-
house be enlarged by an addition of 18 ft., and that a porch be
built in front with a steeple and vane, and for this, £183.6.8.
was appropriated. Maj. Doane was app. chairman of the build-
ing committee, and Thomas Young and Elisha Holbrook were
the contractors for the work.
In 1767, it was “ voted to sell the parsonage lands at Cheques-
set Neck, and invest the proceeds as a ministerial fund.
In 1768, Mr. John Greenough was “engaged to keep a gram-
mar school for one year;3 the school to be attended by such
only as learn the Latin and Greek languages; ” and the school
“ for teaching reading, writing, and cyphering ” was arranged in
proper divisions located in different parts of the town. In the
south division were 48 families; in the middle division, 48; on
Cole’s Neck and on the east side of the town, 48; and, on Hol-
brook’s Neck, the Islands, and Pamet Point, 49; making a total
of 193 families. The sum appropriated for the town school was
£40.
1 “ Continued from the southerly end of the swamp near Dan’l Mayo’s
barn to the northward of the old meeting-house hill; then southwesterly,
as the cartway runs, near Maj. Doane’s fence ; then westerly to the north-
ward of Hudson Vickery’s dwelling; thence still westerly till it comes to
the N. E. end of Doane’s Bridge; thence across said bridge S. W. and by
W. to high-water mark to the eastward of Sanfl Hatch’s dwelling, — there
to be a landing place.”
8 Mr. Pratt has it that measures were adopted to prevent so great use of
spirituous liquors. We find no such action recorded.
3 Mr. Greenough was a grad of H. C. 1763.ANNALS OF WELLFLEET.
663
A request from the selectmen of the town of Boston
was received; and, in compliance, Elisha Doane Esq.
was app. a delegate to the convention to be held in
Faneuil Hall in Sept.
In 1769, the line between this town and Truro was defined ;l
and the parsonage meadow was fenced. Mr. Greenough’s gram-
mar school was still in operation and so continued several years.
In 1770, the amount raised for common schools was £53. 6. 8.
Application was made by the town to the governor to appoint
some one resident here, justice of the peace; agents were app.
to take care of the Indian lands; and restrictions were imposed
upon the sale of intoxicating drinks.
In 1771, the parsonage property in Chequesset Keck was sold
to Thos. Holbrook, for £38. 13. 4. The taxes of Mr. Greenough,
the grammar school-master were abated in consideration of his
employment.
In 1772, a law having been enacted by the Gen. Court, regu-
lating the taking of oysters in Billingsgate Bay, an amendment
of that act was now asked by the town, namely, that during the
summer months they shall not be taken to market; nor fished by
inhabitants of the town for their own use during the months of
July and August. Mr. Barnabas Freeman of Eastham, the rep-
resentative, was requested to present a petition to that effect.
In 1773, the schools were still in operation, and the same
amount raised to sustain them as in the three preceding years.
The town ordered that “fish shall be taken from Herring Brook
only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, except for codfish
bait.” Also, ‘ that inasmuch as the oyster-fishery, which is of
great value to the town and of great advantage to the Province,
has received detriment from persons taking young oysters, the
enactment of more stringent regulations are necessary to prevent
their destruction.” By-laws were constructed, and by the Court
of Sessions approved.
In 1774, letters having been received from the Com.
of Correspondence of the town of Boston, with a copy
of the votes and proceedings of that town and of a
1 “ From a heap of stones on Bound Brook Island, which heap of stones
is called the westernmost bound; and from thence easterly by old marked
trees and some newly marked, in the old range, to the sea on the back side.”664
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
convention assembled there the 29th of Nov. last; this
town voted to refer the whole matter to a com. con-
sisting of Mr. Winslow Lewis, Hezekiah Doane Esq.,
Capt. Elisha Cobb, and Messrs. Joseph Higgins, Naa-
man Holbrook, Sam’l Smith, and Ezekiel Holbrook.
Their report, made at an adjourned meeting, was ac-
cepted and ordered to be recorded. Bold and patriotic
resolves similar to those adopted in other towns, were
passed; pledging the town “ to the defense of liberty
and right against the unjust enactments of Parliament
and the usurpations of the Crown”; also “ not to pur-
chase or use any imported articles on which Govern-
ment has imposed unconstitutional and unlawful du-
ties.” A copy of the proceedings was transmitted.
The town was now divided into eight school-districts, and an
agent was chosen for each. It was also “ ordered that the select
men provide a grammar school.” 1 Additional regulations were
made for the preservation of the oyster fishery, in conjunction
with doings of the towns of Eastham, and approved by the
Court.
At a County Congress held at Barnstable, Nov. 16,
to consider the condition of the country, this town
was represented by Messrs. Winslow Lewis, Zoheth
Smith, Samuel Smith, and Maj. Hezekiah Doane and
Capt. Elisha Cobb. In the warrant issued Dec. 8, for
a town meeting to be held Dec. 19, “ to receive the re-
port of the County Congress, and to see if the town
will act agreeably to the directions of the Provincial
Congress in regard to choosing military officers and in
respect to other matters submitted by said Provincial
Congress,” is especial mention “ by desire of one gent,
that he may have an opportunity of making satisfac-
tion for his misconduct in bringing Tea into town, and
1 The teacher of this school for the last five or six years seems to have
fallen under public censure for political malfeasance; and hence the inter-
ruption of his pedagoguical duties.ANNALS OF WELLFLEET.
665
also for his abuse of the com. of cor. chosen by the
town, — in the letter which he addressed to them ”
To the warrant, the selectmen, Messrs. Atwood, Hol-
brook, and Smith, add the following: “ N. B. It is the
desire of the selectmen and Mr. Greenough that there
may be a full meeting, as there are many things to
lay before the district concerning our public affairs.”
At the meeting thus called, Capt. Cobb being mode-
rator, the proceedings of the County Congress wrere
several times read, also the resolves of the Continental
and Provincial Congresses; the town voted its “ appro-
bation of, and hearty concurrence with, all said re-
solves and recommendations.” Mr. Greenough “ hav-
ing the opportunity granted him, read what he had to
offer by way of satisfaction to the district, — which
was as follows:
a Whereas I bought a quantity of tea and brought into this dis-
trict last winter, I do acknowledge that I was therein guilty of an
error, and am heartily sorry therefor; and I do declare I had no
intention to injure the liberties of my country therein. And
whereas the committee of correspondence for this district appre-
hend that I have abused them, in a letter I sent them, I do de-
clare that I had no such intention, and wish to be reconciled to
them again and to forget and forgive on both sides.
“ Wellfleet, Dec. 19, 1774. Signed, John Greenough ”
There was evidently a general disposition, on the
part of the inhabitants, to accept the confession of Mr.
G., and to treat him as one fully restored to public
confidence, as appears from their appointing him at
this meeting on an important committee. Still, there
were embarrassing considerations present to the minds
of many at this meeting; and these considerations
were, probably in consequence of outward pressure,
not easily to be overcome. The selling of a part of a
chest of tea contrary to the town’s resolve, it was be-
VOL. II.	84666
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
lieved abroad, was not the full extent of the transac-
tion. The teas landed here had been extensively dis-
tributed by some means, and had even found their
way into Connecticut. Satisfaction was demanded by
the public at large ; and the final settlement of the af-
fair and the quieting of the public mind, was a work
of much trouble and delay.
The town required the officers of the military, hold-
ing commissions under the Crown, to resign; and they
having complied, Elisha Cobb was app. Capt.; Zoheth
Smith, 1st Lieut.; and William Chipman, 2d Lieut.
The town also raised money a for the relief of the suf-
fering poor in Boston,— that port being shut up by
Act of Parliament.,, “ Agreeably to the 10th resolve
of the County Congress, the same meeting chose eight
men, namely, James Brown, Ephr’m Covel, Timo. Nye,
Doct. Sam’l Nutting, John Greenough Esq., John
Swett, Samuel Waterman, and Jona. Higgins, to see
that the resolves of the several congresses are carried
into execution in this district; and likewise to see
that the inhabitants subscribe the association or league
agreed on by the Continental Congress, with the addi-
tional clause recommended by the County Congress in
their 5th resolve.”
In 1775, at an adjourned meeting held Jan. 25, the
following proceedings were had :
“ Whereas, according to the best intelligence we can at present
obtain, there is, by Act of Parliament, a tax or tribute laid upon
teas exported from Great Britain into America by the East India
Company, for the sole purpose of raising a revenue in the Amer-
ican Plantations, which act we look upon as unconstitutional and
as having a direct tendency to deprive us of the rights and priv-
ileges of free-born subjects, and if submitted to will destroy the
liberty of disposing of our own property and in time reduce us
to slavery: Therefore, upon mature consideration, we come to
the following resolves: —ANNALS OP WELLFLEET.
667
“1. That we are ready at all times as loyal subjects to risk ev-
ery thing that is dear to us, in defence of the crown and dignity
of our Sovereign Lord, King George III.; and, as free-born sons
of America, to maintain our constitutional rights, civil and relig-
ious, to the last extremity.
“ 2. That it is our opinion that there is an unconstitutional tax or
tribute laid upon us, which, if submitted to, will not only involve
us in great difficulties, but exclude the freedom that by the Law
of Nature and our present Constitution, we have a right to.
“ 3. That for the future, so long as a tax or tribute shall con-
tinue to be laid upon teas imported from Great Britain for the
sole purpose of raising a revenue upon the inhabitants of Amer-
ica, we will not buy nor use any in our families; and that we
will not give countenance to, nor will we have any connection
with, any person that shall for the future sell any teas in this dis-
trict, or any person that shall buy the same, until said Act is re-
pealed.
“And, lastly, We, upon due consideration of what the respect-
able inhabitants of the town of Boston and other respectable
towns have done in this affair, do acquiesce therein, as they have
shown a laudable zeal for the preservation of the Rights and
Liberties of America; and we return them our sincere thanks
therefor.”
The meeting being now informed that the offender, before
noted, wished to make a further communication, it was allowed
to be read.1
'We have felt some hesitancy in spreading before our readers a matter
that in our view is largely personal; but as, in another view, it was promi-
nently a matter of public interest and occupied the attention of both Con-
gresses, we are but complying with duty in noting particulars. We have,
before, referred to outside influence : the following explains, — Mr. G. ex-
pressed a willingness to fall in with any course that should be adopted for
the general good. He desired to have the inhabitants reconciled to him,
and to be secure from public indignation. He would submit whether the
remainder of the chest of tea, which he averred was broken and damaged
when procured, should be sold from hence; or kept under the care of the
committee to whom he was ready to surrender it if desired ; or kept by him-
self, he pledging his honor that he will not sell any part of it until it shall
be declared by the committee lawful to do so. .	.	. Whereupon a copy
of a letter to the Com. of Cor. at Boston was produced and read, namely,
“ Gent., we have received your letter covering the votes and proceedings of
the town of Boston, on the 5 & 18th. of Nov. last; also the proceedings of
a Body of the people met at Boston on the 29th of the same month ; and
for your care herein we return you our thanks. We are now to inform
you that when Capt. Loring was cast on shore at Provincetown. John
Greenough Esq. undertook to procure, and did procure two vessels for Mr.
Clarke, and did assist in getting the cargo to Boston as you are already668
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
The districts being this year allowed all the rights
and privileges of towns in electing representatives, no-
acquainted. While he was at Provincetown, he procured two damaged
chests of tea, partly for himself and partly for other persons, which, as he
says, since they paid no duty, he thought he might receive with safety with-
out injuring himself or his country ; and on his return back from Boston he
went into Cape Cod Harbor to take on board the said chests, which being
damaged had been there left, and whilst there, receiving a letter from a
friend of his here, he took away one only of the damaged chests, the most of
which was designed for and purchased on account of Col. Willard Knowles
of Eastham. This chest was landed here, and Col. Knowles received and
carried away his tea before the district could be called together. This high-
ly incensed the inhabitants; and they assembled to take into consideration
your letters and also to do something respecting the above chest of tea; and
having been informed in meeting by Mr. Greenough that said chest was
damaged, and that when in Boston he let it be known to several gentlemen
and one of your committee that a like damaged chest had been disposed of
to the people who were employed in saving the cargo, and that he had pro-
cured these, — and that the gentlemen showed no dislike to it but thought
it might be sold free from duty without any damage to the couutry ; and
Mr. G. having offered his sentiments to the meeting and concluded to fall in
with anything at said meeting to be done for the good of society: —which was
not satisfactory; the district then chose a com. to take all the matters then
before the meeting into consideration and draw up some resolves and report,
and then adjourned to the 25th inst. Mr. G. being still willing to reconcile
himself with the inhabitants, and no proposals being made to him, he volunta-
rily gave in to their committee a paper, the copy of which you have enclos-
ed, which being, laid before the meeting at the adjournment this day, the dis-
trict, though not willing to receive any tea that might be brought among
them contrary to the voice of the country, yet desirous of being of a pacific
temper on receiving any rational proposals whereby they might clear them-
selves of blame and harm, readily came in to the proposals made by Mr.
Greenough. And wTe do now set forth the above as a true state of the
facts; and we do, on the behalf of this district, earnestly request your opinion
on the conduct of this district and Mr. Greenough in this affair ; and also
your opinion whether the remainder of said damaged chest of tea may be
sold from us without injury to any of the inhabitants of this district when
they have occasion to transact business in Boston; and if you are of the
opinion that it cannot, we desire your opinion and advice what further ought
to be done than keeping the same under the care of a committee of this dis-
trict to whom Mr. G. has delivered it. The advice, Gentlemen, you re-
quested of us, we should have given according to our understanding, had
we timely reeeived your favor. The sense of this District you have in the
inclosed Besolves. — We are, with great esteem, your friends and humble
servants,
“ Gentlemen, The above facts, so far as they relate to myself and this
District, are true; and I readily and heartily join in the above request of
your opinion and advice ; And am, Gent., your hum. servt.
To the Com. of Cor. of Boston.	Signed, John Greenough.”
The district, we have intimated,became, in time, “reconciled” to Mr. G.
Signed,ANNALS OF WELLFLEET.
669
tice was given, May 22, for this town to choose a rep-
resentative to the Provincial Congress to assemble on
the last Wednesday of May inst.
For the support of schools this year, £400, old tenor, being
appropriated, the vote was subsequently modified; and Doct.
Nutting was employed to keep the grammar school. Orders
were passed, May 29, to enforce obedience to military officers
and requiring such as refuse to attend on training days to pay a
fine of 5s. It was voted to regard such as refuse to pay, hostile
to their country — no good citizen to associate or deal with
them.1
It was proposed to the minister, that he should abate a part of
his salary, “ because of the scarcity of money and the difficulties
of the times; or wait for the balance.”
In 1776, the town petitioned the Gen. Court to abate the Prov-
ince-tax of the inhabitants, “on account of the scarcity of money
and the interruption of their usual business by the war.” The
memorial stated that the people of this town were “located on
the most barren soil of the Province;” that “all the land capa-
ble of being tilled ” would “ not yield corn enough for more than
one quarter of the inhabitants; ” that “ the harbor, which was
convenient enough for small vessels in carrying on the whale fish-
ery, was the only advantage of the location, and this pursuit in
which hitherto had been employed 2000 tons of shipping, and by
which nine-tenths of the inhabitants obtained their living,” was
entirely cut off by British men-of-war anchored in Cape Cod Har-
bor; that “the oyster fishery, by which the other tenth obtained
a livelihood,” was lost to them; that most of their vessels were
hauled up and becoming worthless, and the few which attempted
to go out of the harbor to fetch provisions had been cap-
tured ;2 and that the town was almost destitute of bread and
other necessaries of life: they, therefore, prayed that they might
be relieved from a public tax.
A proposal to that effect was voted in the affirmative. These transactions
taken as a whole are, we confess, not a very flattering exhibit.
1	This laxity of military discipline at such a crisis, and the necessity of
resorting to such countervailants, can only find their apology in the pecul-
iarly exposed situation of the town. That some should be found here not
hearty in their country’s cause, is but a trait of human nature exhibited in
all countries and all localities.
2	To what extent, at this time, other navigational interests finding owners
and seamen here existed, we have no information ; but one instance occurs,670
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Still, however, the records furnish evidence of noble
patriotism; for, in response to the proposition of the
somewhat noted and mysterious in its developments. We refer to the case of
‘ the McClary owners vs. Doane & Doane’s administrators/ The Me Clary, a
privateer, was fitted out by Portsmouth merchants in 1776, and Oct. 30,
captured near a British port, (Halifax,) the Lusanna, Matthew Wood master,
and Lot Lewis mate, conveying, as was alleged, supplies to the enemy.
Elisha Doane Esq., of Wellfleet, put in a claim to the vessel as owner, and
to a part of the cargo to the amount of £2000 sterling; I. Doane, then of
Boston, merchant, claimed cargo to amount of £123 ; and Capt. Jas. Shepard
of Boston, £ 115 ; and part of the cargo remained unclaimed. The brigan-
tine was about 70 tons burthen. The cause was tried Dec. 16, 1777, when
it was proved that Elisha Doane was owner at the commencement of the
war, and, Aug. 16, 1775, loaded her with 100 tons of sperm oil etc, cleared
at Ply. for London consigned to Shearjashub Bourne Esq., his son-in-law,
who was going in the vessel; or, in his absence, to Messrs. Lane, Son & Fraser.
She was taken by a Br. ship of war; then liberated, Mr. Bourne going to
Boston, the headquarters of the Br. army for the procurement. Again at
liberty, she proceeded on her voyage. A new register was taken, Aug. 3,1776,
in London, in the name of Shearjashub Bourne, merchant of London, and
she was employed more than a year on government account in conveying
supplies to Gibraltar. When first taken by the Br. man of war, Doane put
in no claim; but Bourne did, and in a memorial, 1777, long after the vessel
was given up to him, says to the lords commissioners of the treasury, in appli-
cation for payment for 102 casks oil, u Your memorialist hath ever been and
still is one of Ilis Majesty’s loyal subjects, and by every act in his power
hath maintained his loyalty, and, whilst in America, publicly and privately
disavowed all actions which might have a tendency to subvert his Majesty’s
government, and by a steady perseverance had rendered his person and
property unsafe so that he was obliged to convey himself with a very small
share of his property away from his native land to this kingdom and brought
with him a very considerable quantity of oil which he apprehended was much
wanted in this kingdom, — directly contrary to the resolves of a body of
men who took upon themselves the title or style of the Continental Con-
gress,” etc., etc. The vessel and cargo, when sailing for Halifax, was insured
in London against American privateers, and an invoice of about £2000
sterling was shipped by Messrs. Lane Son & Fraser, consigned to Bourne at
Halifax ; £208 was shipped by Bourne himself, consigned to himself at Hali-
fax ; and subsequent letters from him to the house of Messrs. Thos., Jas. &
Wm. Cockran of Halifax, order them to account with himself, Messrs. Lane
Son & Fraser, or Messrs. E. or I. Doane. John Greenough, living with
Doane deposed to opening a correspondence with the Lond. merchants in
Doane’s behalf, which lasted some years and that they were always in
Doane's debt, they allowing him interest for large sums of money arising
from remittances he made them. David Stoddard Greenough also testified
to the same effect. They supposed that the London merchants must have
had £6000 or £7000 sterling in their hands belonging to Doane before the
Lusanna arrived. It appeared that Melatiah Bourne was also concerned in
the cargo. Nathaniel Freeman Esq. being called as a witness, deposed with
respect to Shearj. Bourne that the said B. was esteemed, by all who knew
him, as a friend to the interests of his country, until about a year or more
before he signed the address to Gov. Hutchinson, which, when the courts in
Barnstable were stopped, Sept. 2 7,17 74, he professed sorrow for having signed,
which declaration was voted, by the people assembled, to be satisfactory;ANNALS OP WELLFLEET.
671
Gen. Court that every town, at a full meeting called
for the purpose, should obtain the minds of the peo-
ple whether they desire to be independent of Great
Britain, etc., this town “Voted, That if the Honorable
Continental Congress shall think proper for the safety
of the good people of the united colonies, to declare
said colonies independent, we, the inhabitants of the
town of Wellfleet, will support them with our lives
and fortunes.” The instructions to their representa-
tives, Col. Elisha Cobb and Naaman Holbrook, attest
the sincerity of the pledge; and when the Declaration
of Independence was received, and read publicly, Aug.
25, on Lord’s day, immediately after divine service, by
the worthy pastor, Rev. Isaiah Lewis, agreeably to the
order of Council, there was not, so far as we are in-
formed, one murmuring thought or discordant senti-
ment.
In 1777, Mar. 4, “Messrs. Joseph Ward, Jonathan
Young, Thomas Dean, Joseph Smith, and Moses Wyley
were chosen a committee of correspondence, inspection,
and safety. A requisition being made for ten men to
serve in the Continental Army, it was “ voted to hire
money to pay such men as will voluntarily enlist,—
giving to each man £4 lawful money per month in
and that it was the general opinion in this county that Bourne sailed in the
Lusanna to protect the interests of his father-in-law in London, and not as
having fled to the enemy for refuge, and therefore no attempt was made by
committees or others to disturb his estate which, in his absence, was taxed as
usual in Barnstable. The case was 19 yrs. in the courts, and finally decid-
ed, 1795; and, says the reviewer in the Statement pub. Portsmouth 1795,
“ the decision must appear at a future period, if not now, most remarkably
mysterious, and possibly unfathomable.” The difficulties which patriots of
the Revolution encountered were multiform ; and not the least was the
equivocal bearing of men of wealth and position suspected disloyal, but
practising concealments;
“ Their aim
Private rewards; for which both God and state
They’d set to sale
and for whom, now, it is sometimes claimed that they were “ moderate
whigs! ”672
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
addition to the government wages.” Subsequently,
the town found it necessary to order the enlistment of
the men on any terms to secure their service.
Agreeably to an Act of the Gen. Court to prevent monopoly
and oppression, the town app. acorn, to fix the prices of necessary
articles of subsistence and of all kinds of labor, “to be a rule for
buyer and seller and to be commended to all persons as they
would avoid the contempt of their fellow-countrymen as also the
penalties annexed to the breach of said Act.” It was also “voted
to procure a supply of ammunition and small arms.” John Green-
ough, Esq., the representative to the Gen. Court was instructed
“to l(iy before the court a petition of the town setting forth the
distressed condition of the inhabitants and praying an abatement
of public taxes.”
The questions that arose in regard to Articles of
Confederation and perpetual Union between the Unit-
ed States of America were submitted by the town
66 entirely to the wisdom and prudence ” of its Repre-
sentatives.
In 1778, the enlistment of men for the army continued, and
18 were raised here for the service. At the same time, the
town felt constrained to send again a petition to the Gen. Court,
protesting “the distressed situation of the people, and praying
for relief.” An order was passed “ to collect the town’s powder
lent to other towns or let out to individuals;” also “to pay for
the small-arms, gun-locks, powder, lead, etc. received from the
Province as the town’s proportion,” agreeably to Act of Court;
and “ that the selectmen provide for the families of soldiers in the
continental service, agreeably to Act requiring the same.” Capt.
Joseph Higgins, Capt. Winslow Lewis, Jno. Greenough Esq.,
Capt. Jos. Smith, and Jos. Ward were app. the com. of Cor. and
Safety.
The Constitution or Plan of Government adopted
by Convention, being submitted to the people, May
19, the town “ voted unanimously that we do approve
of and accept the same; ” and, Aug. 20, Messrs. Eben.
Atwood, Eph’m Covel, Win. Chipman, Elisha Cobb,
Benj. Swett, Hezekiah Doane, Eleazar Waterman, andANNALS OF WELLFLEET.
673
Sam’l Waterman were selected “ to receive subscrip-
tions for Rev. Mr. Lewis in consideration of the depre-
ciated currency.”
The Br. ship of war, Somerset, having been stranded near
Truro, and the crew being taken prisoners and marched through
town on their way to Boston, were here supplied with provisions
and other comforts. The expenses incurred on this occasion
were allowed by government.
In 1779, the additional number of men required
for the army was enlisted, and $10 in addition to gov-
ernment wages was given to each. Messrs. Winslow
Lewis, Hezekiah Doane, Elisha Cobb, Naaman Hol-
brook, and Sam’l Smith were the com. of safety; and
Messrs. John Greenough, Hez’h Doane, and Elijah Cobb
delegates to the County Convention to be held in
Barnstable.
The Rev. Isaiah Lewis, having become aged and
feeble, so that he was no longer able to perform all the
labors of the ministry, relinquished his claim for salary,
—	proposing still to continue his pastoral connection ;
the town being at liberty, if it shall be thought desir-
able, to procure an assistant minister. The town gen-
erously voted £20 per annum to Mr. Lewis, and app.
a com. to engage the services of an assistant.
An event occurred this year that brought sadness
to many hearts, involving the whole town in mourning,
—	the loss at sea of William Doane and 22 others be-
longing here, in the ship America.
Agreeably to resolve of the Gen. Court, Feb. 19,
the question was submitted May 10, touching a new
form of government, which passed in the affirmative,
and the representative was instructed to vote for
calling a State Convention for the pupose of framing
a new Constitution. Additional arms were ordered,
money for their purchase to be borrowed ; and £800
vol. ii.	85674
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
was raised for the current expenses of the year.
Either the pecuniary circumstances of the inhabitants
had begun to improve, and hence the patriotic decision
we are about to record; or they had become weary of
petitioning and setting forth their grievances without
securing redress: a motion was made this year, and
pressed, for memorializing the court again for abate-
ment of the State tax; the proposition was negatived.
In 1780, Rev. Mr. Lewis, in consideration of £500, gave “ a final
discharge to the town for all dues on account of salary remaining
unpaid ; ” and it was “ voted to pay him in addition to any for-
mer grant, at the rate of 7J for 1, for the interest of the parson-
age money that is or may be due to him in May next, in consid-
eration of the present depreciated currency.” The sum of £1600
was voted “to pay the debt of the town for schools, £700 was
voted; and a committee was app. “ to keep the children and
young folk in order in time of service on Sabbath days.”
The new Constitution, with the exception of the 3d
article of Bill of Rights, was rejected by a large ma-
jority, May 22.
A meeting was held, June 26, “ to concert plans for enlisting 6
mo’s, men for the army.” It was voted “ to pay $7 hard money
per mo., or continental bills equivalent thereto, in addition to
government pay, from the time of their arrival at the place of
rendezvous, as a bounty from the town; ” and a com. was cho-
sen “ to use all possible endeavors to procure the men and report
at an adjourned meeting, June 28. The com., at the appointed
time, reported “no success.” The resolve of the Gen. Court for
reinforcing the army was then again read in meeting; whereupon
it was “ voted to give each recruit $10 in silver per mo. as a town
bounty.” The requisition for beef for army supply presented
not simply a difficulty, but an impossibility.
In 1781, a quota of 6 men being required for the army, the
town authorized the offer of a bounty “ not to exceed £20 per
man per mo.” Mr. John Greenough died in July.1
1 John Greenough Esq. was descended from Capt. Wm. of Dorchester
who was b. in Eng. 1639, and m. 1st, Ruth Swift, dr. Thos. of Dor., in 1660,
and 2d, Elisa. Ramsford. They had 11 ch., of whom John b. Feb. 17,ANNALS OF WELLFLEET.
675
In 1783, we find Rev. Mr. Lewis still the minister
of the town, and often exchanging with the neighbor-
ing ministers; but some of the people here desired
more active services ; perhaps we should say, “ popu-
lar ” Some misunderstanding seems also to have ex-
isted in regard to the non-payment of arrears due as
acknowledged in the previous arrangements for a relin-
quishment of salary. Mr. Lewis having now requested
a dismission from the pastoral charge, it was voted,
July 29, that he “be dismissed according to his de-
sire ; ” and a com. was app. to procure a supply.
These votes were afterwards reconsidered, Mr. Lewis
yielding the matters in controversy; and a subscrip-
tion was then opened for him.
This brings us to the ever-memorable event of the
year, when the Independence of the United States be-
ing acknowledged by Great Britain, and all difficulties
being in process of adjustment, a treaty of Peace was
concluded. Great as had been the sufferings of the
inhabitants, by reason of a war which had now resulted
in honor and blessing to the country, and poverty-
stricken though many of them became, they had nobly
endured. Bearing more than a proportionate share of
the evils of a state of hostilities, there is no evidence
that the majority ever desponded, or ceased to be pa-
1672, was the 5th, and had by his w. Elisa. 9 ch., the 7th, Thos., b. May 6,1710.
Dea. Thomas, b. 1710, d. in Boston 1785, m. 1st, Martha Clark, 2d, Sarah
Stoddard 1750, and had 12 eh. of whom were Thos. May 8, 1738; John
Ap. 4, 1742; and David S. July 31, 1752. Thomas, b. 1738, had a dr.
Elisa, b. 1771, who m. Capt. Winslow Lewis Nov. 7, 1793; and another,
Anne, b. 1765, m. Elisha Bangs of H. Nov. 2, 1786; 2d, John Bright, and
3d, John Paine 1836. John Esq., b. 1742, grad. II. C. 1759, set. in Well-
fleet and m. Mehit. Dillingham of H. Oct. 16, 1766, who d. Aug. 25, 1798,
a?. 51, They had a dr. b. Oct. 4, 1767, d. inf.; Sarah Sept. 3, 1768, drown-
ed Nov. 30, 1788; John July 18, 1770, d. 1789; William Jan. 6, 1772;
David June 24, 1774; Abigail Dec. 28, 1776 ; Mehitable Ap. 18, 1779, d.
y. in Boston. The preceding were all b. in W. They had also, in Boston,
Mehit. May 3, 1781. David S. b. 1752, m. wid. Anne, (Hough) Doane
1784.676
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
triotic. They had furnished, probably according to
their ability, their full proportion both for the land
and sea service ; and now had the exquisite enjoyment
of relief from exactions, and of the rewards of suc-
cess. Engaging in peaceful and honorable avocations,
their enterprise in their chosen branch of industry on
the wide ocean soon made them again prosperous and
wealthy.
In 1784, an invitation was given to Mr. Asa Packard
to settle here in the ministry. This invitation, after
due consideration, was declined.1
In 1785, Feb. 7, a call was extended to Mr. Whit-
man to settle as colleague with Mr. Lewis, a salary of
£100, and £200 settlement being provided. The call
was accepted, and Rev. Levi Whitman was ordained
Ap. 13.2	(
New bounds were this year erected between this
town and Truro.
In 1786, Oct. 3, the venerable and honored Rev.
Isaiah Lewis died in the 55th year of his ministry, ae.
84.3
In 1787, the town was rapidly recovering from its
recent depression ; the fisheries were renewed ; other
enterprises upon the sea were undertaken; schools
1	Mr. Packard grad. H. C. 1783. He settled in Wiscasset, Me.
2	Rev. Mr. Whitman, b. 1748 in bridge water, grad. H. C. 1 7 79.
8Rev. Isaiah Lewis, b. in Hingliam June 10, 1703, grad. II. C., 1723,
was son of John who was son of Lt. James of Be. Rev. Mr. L. was a
man of good order of intellect, with a heart devoted to his work. Under
his ministry, 219 members were added to the church, and he solemnized 233
marriages. By his marriage with Abigail Winslow, dr. Kenelm, June 25,
1730, he had born to him Hannah Sept. 1731, who m. Rev. Joseph Green;
and Winslow July 3, 1738, who d. in E. 1801, and whose son, Capt. Winslow
Lewis was a prominent man in this town, whose only son bearing the same
name settled in Boston and was the father of the present Doct. Winslow Lewis.
Residing in Rev. Mr. Lewis’s family, during the season of youth, — his father
having died, — and educated by the grandfather, was his g. son Isaiah L.
Green who grad. H. C. 1781, was many yrs. a merchant in Be., and subse-
quently rep. in Congress, and afterwards collector of the revenue in this
district.ANNALS OF WELLFLEET.
677
were an object of increased attention; and many local
improvements were effected.
In 1792, the town voted to repair the meeting-house, erect a
porch in frint with access to the galleries, build pews in the gal-
leries in front, and paint the whole ; enterprise, zeal, and success
attended the movement. The town voted in favor of a revision
of the Constitution.
In 1793, the town voted to assess no tax, but to sell the town’s
lands to meet public expenses. Small-pox prevailed in town this
year.
In 1794, a plan of the town was executed agreeably to a resolve
of the Gen. Court passed June 26.
In 1795, the vote for the revised Constitution, as submitted by
the Gen. Court, was approved by unanimous vote. A bridge
was ordered to be built over Duck Creek.
In 1796, the town voted “ to procure, at an expense not under
$50, nor over $60, a horse, to be presented to the minister, Rev.
Mr. Whitman.”
In 1797, Mr. Whitman having requested an allowance for the
depreciation of money paid him as salary, the matter was referred
to a committee. The town voted him $100 “towards the repairs
of his house,” and $35 “ towards the procuring the necessaries of
sustenance.”
Public religious services by the Methodists were
first held in town this year.1
In 1798, the Treasurer was instructed by town vote “not to
accept any orders drawn” by Rev. Mr. W., “except so far as
money is due to him, or to the amount of the tax of the person
holding the order.” A petition was presented to the Gen. Court
for an Act to prevent the destruction of shell-fish.
In 1799, it was voted “to let out the Indian land, for the sup-
port of the Indians remaining in town.” It was also “ voted that
Rev. Mr. Whitman be permitted to draw $4 from the treasury,
to buy him a gown.” Mr. Ezekiel Holbrook, town treasurer,
died this year.
1 Until this time, the town had been united in the same religious worship.
But one denomination existed. The visits of Rev. Bobt. Yallalev whose
labors had been available at Provincetown, culminated with the efforts of
others in the establishment of this new denomination in this place. In 1807,
Wellfleet was constituted by the Methodists a part of the ‘ Harwich Cir-
cuit/678
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1800, an order was passed forbidding “ that sheep be permit-
ted to go at large.”
In 1802, it was “ voted to repair the Indians’ house
in the north part of the town, so as to make it com-
fortable.” 1 A Methodist church was organized consist-
ing of three persons, under the pastoral care of Rev.
Joel Steele.2
In 1806, Mr. Thomas Holbrook died.3 The Congre-
'The business of the town at this date was thus noted; “ Engaged in the
whale fishery were 5 vessels. They carried salt that, should they not load
with oil in the straits of Belle Isle or Newfoundland, they might make up
their voyage with codfish. In the cod and mackerel fisheries 4 vessels were
exclusively engaged. In the fisheries around the Cape 12 vessels were em-
ployed. And in carrying oysters to Boston, Salem, Newburyport and Port-
land, 4 other vessels.”
2	The system of itineracy adopted by this denomination precludes the
possibility of our noting all the changes of successive years.
3	The Holbrooks have been numerous and highly respectable in this
town for a long period, and branches of the family are scattered abroad ;
but as a Genealogical Memoir is extant and accessible, we need not occupy
our pages with extended notes in regard to them. Mr. Thomas Holbrook,.
the first, is said to have come from Seituate early, and had sons Naaman,
Ezekiel, and John. Naaman, member of the Provincial Congress, was
prominent and influential, filling a large space in public affairs. Naaman
jr., m. Mary Cobb 1779. Elipiialet m. Mary Covel, 1771. John m.
Ruth Smith 1778. Thomas who sot. in E., now Wellfleet, and m. Mar-
garet Doane, Jan. 2, 1734-5, who survived him to the age of 95 yrs, and d.
about 1808, had Thos. Jan. 30, 1739-40, who m. Hannah Harding, and d.
1806; Isaiah May 23, 1742, who m. Price Hatch and was drowned;
John Oct. 18, 1748 who m. Ruth Ilamlen and removed in 17 71 to Me. ;
and Isaac Doane Feb. 18, 1751 who d. young. Abiezur had by w. Han-
nah, sons: Abiezur Aug. 20, 1741 ; Jesse July 24, 1743 who m. Mercy
Covel; and Jonathan July 21, 1745. Ezekiel m. Martha Mayo Oct. 10,
1751, and was town elk. and treas. 1774-1800, and had Sami. Feb. 24, 1759
and perhaps others. Capt. Jesse m. Temperance Higgins and had Joseph
Mar. 21, 1797. Capt. II. was a strong, athletic man, weighing 350 lbs., and
in early life belonged to “the seed-corn-gang ” of whalers. He killed 52
sperm whales in one voyage ; and his skill obtained for him employment by
a London Company, “to teach others the art of taking whales.” lie sailed
in the employ of this Co. 12 yrs. Returning in 1794, he settled at Hamp-
den, Me., where he built the ship Hampden and sailed for Amsterdam,
chartered by the French gov. to convey troops to La. After receiving 300
men on board, he, with 15 others of the convoy, was blockaded by an Eng-
lish fleet, and frozen in for the winter. In the mean while, France sold La.
to the U. S., and in the spring ordered the troops to debark. Capt. II. was
neither paid for the maintenance of the troops nor allowed anything by the
Fr. Gov. for the recall of the contract. The next summer, he removed back
to this town and d. se. 70, an honored member of the Meth. church. Col.
Joseph, s. of Capt. Jesse, m. Mary Rich, g. dr. of Dea. Josiah of Truro.
He was distinguished by love of military adventure. He was in Lisbon
during the Peninsular war; in 1812 was engaged in privateering. Was rep.
1830-2, and in 1834 removed to Boston.ANNALS OF WELLFLEET.
679
gational meeting-house belonging to the town was
again enlarged, and the additional pews obtained were
sold for $2520.61, more than the expenses of enlarge-
ment and repairs.1 The appropriation for town schools
this year was $100, being about the average amount
for the last twenty-five years.
1 This house erected before 1720, when this town was the North Precinct
of Eastham, is, in its location and surroundings at this time, thus described
by an intelligent observer: “ Ascending and descending many sandy eleva-
tions, such as form the roads on the south side of the hills, and passing many
green, shady dells, the traveller comes to a vast region of sand in which is
the meeting house.” His remarks upon that Sunday and the day following,
we also venture to quote. lie says, “ The appearance of a stranger excited
notice.” “ The man whom I joined on the way to meeting and who, with
much civility invited me to a seat, had abundant employment, both before
and after divine service, in relating to successive knots of auditors the most
prominent particulars respecting the stranger, either as received from him,
or as he had been able to conjecture ; and as these auditors retired to their
respective homes, he was soon known in the remoter parts of the town. In
one instance, a man took the trouble to hallo to me, informing me that I was
an Englishman, with the addition of some small opprobrious language. The
comment of a native of N. England would probably be that there must have
been a deficiency of schools in the place ; but the language soon escaped
my memory and I mention the circumstance chiefly for its simplicity. With
scarcely another exception, I found every individual, of whatever domestic
party, more forward, in all personal addresses, to flatter, than to insult the
English name.” He remarks generally of the Cape, “ Few of the meeting
houses have spires; but near by is usually a range of covered stalls for
horses, — a very convenient and humane appendage.” This house had no
spire. Attending the service, two particulars attracted attention : “ a violent
and thundering noise, such as seemed to threaten the fall of the roof; of
which, until repeated I did not discover the cause. This noise took place
whenever the congregation, after standing, sat down. It resulted from a
contrivance in the seats of abundant ingenuity. As, in standing against the
side of the pew, the knees would otherwise be vexed by the edge of the pro-
jecting seats, the latter are composed of two parts joined by hinges. Now,
when the congregation rises every member lifts his seat; and when prepar-
ing again to sit comes the thundering sound by a simultaneous putting down
of the seats, — the operation being performed in no very gentle manner, but
by letting the seat fall with at least all the force which gravity imparts.
The other particular consisted in the appearance of the leader of the choir,
who sat in a large gallery with some 20 singers, and who, arrayed in a
cotton morning gown, had placed himself on the top of the partit ion of the
slips, one leg being supported by the front of the gallery and the other lying
along on the top of the partition.” This leader, we will venture to suggest
was a character in town, and magnified his position in society. The strang-
er further remarks, * In all this, we have made no mention of rural beauties,
nor of bonnets ; and yet it is highly proper that the reader be enabled to
figure to himself both beauties and bonnets worthy of all praise. The ser-
vice came to an end; the beauties ascended their pillions, and their horses
waded through the sand.”680
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1807, a proposition for an addition to Rev. Mr. Whitman’s
salary was voted in the negative by a large majority. A propo-
sition was then made to make him an allowance for the depreci-
ation of salary since the time of settlement, and this also was
negatived. It was then “voted to give him a good suit of
clothes, from head to foot, both outer and under clothing com-
pletely finished, including boots and hat.” A further proposition
to give him $50 in provisions, failed of support. For common
schools, $100 was appropriated, and $30 for a singing-school.
In 1808, a committee of the town, to be joined by
a com. of the church, was app. to propose to Rev. Mr.
Whitman a dissolution of the pastoral connection.
These proceedings were unanimous. That grave
causes for this course were supposed to exist has been
foreshadowed in preceding votes, and might also be in-
ferred from the several contingencies contemplated in
provisions now made which it is not our duty here to
recite. Let it suffice to say that customs at that day
prevailed among all classes which were an insidious
lure to indulgence not consistent with sobriety; and
that he consented to the amicable arrangement pro-
posed, and took his dismission, June 16, with a grant
of $500.1
Rev. Timothy Davis was the next minister. Being
called to the pastorate on a salary of $600 and a set-
tlement of $500, he accepted, and was ordained Nov.
16.2 The town petitioned the President of the United
1	Mr. Whitman remained herein the ministry 23 yrs., and fora long
time was a very popular preacher. There were added to the church during
his ministry 33 members, and he united in marriage 283 couples. He m.
Sarah Thomas of Pembroke and had Levi 1789, who grad. II. C. 1808 and
set. in Maine as counsellor at law; Sarah 1790, who m. Gov. Parris of
Me.; Charles 1791, who became att’y. in Me.; Josiali 1793, who became a
merchant in Portland ; Ruth 1794 ; Eliza S. 1797 ; and Hope 1799. Mr.
W. m. a 2d w. in Kingston by the name of Drew, and d. 1838, ae. 90. His
nephew, residing with and educated by him in this town, grad. Brown
Uni versity in 1795, studied law, and became Chief Justice of the State of
Maine.
2	llev. Mr. Davis was b. in Wrentham and grad. H. C. 1804. At the date
of his settlement, the church consisted of 10 male and 39 female members
only.ANNALS OF WELLFLEET.
681
States to suspend the embargo, either in whole or in
part, agreeably with the power vested in him by Con-
gress.
In 1812, war between the United States and Great
Britain existing, the town applied to the proper au-
thorities for a provision that, in consideration of the
exposedness of this and the lower towns on the Cape,
“ the militia be exempt from military duty, so far as
not to be liable to be called from home, and to be left
for the defence of their own towns.” The school money
raised this year was $200.
In 1814, a committee of safety was app. whose duty it should
be “ to have a watch kept in respect to the British ships-of-war,
tenders, and barges cruising in Barnstable Bay and threatening
the towns, and to use all proper means for this town’s protection
and security; ” and, July 13, a com. of 13 was app. namely, Thos.
Higgins, Freeman Atwood, Nath’l Wiley, Rob’t Kemp, Jos. Hol-
brook, Lem’l Newcomb 2d, Eleazer Withrell, Beriah Higgins,
Elisha Brown, Hezekiah Rich, and others, as a committee of
safety, “ whose power and duty it shall be to meet any flag of
truce that may come into the town of Wellfleet from any ship or
other vessels of war that are at war with the U. S. A.; and if, in
the opinion of said com., necessity and the safety of the town
require, any three or more of said com. may go on board any of
the said vessels of war with a flag, and there or in the town of
Wellfleet may adjust, settle, and determine on all demands or
controversies that may take place between said vessels and the
town of Wellfleet: and they may call in to their assistance any
of the principal inhabitants of the said town ; or the said com. may
request the selectmen to call a town meeting on whatever may
be in controversy. And in all cases where is, in their opinion,
any appearance of hostilities from any of the said vessels of war,
against said town or against the adjoining towns, they shall im-
mediately give information to the captain and other militia offi-
cers in said town of Wellfleet; and in all cases and at all times
they shall so conduct as to keep in as much friendship with the
said enemy as possible, making the Constitution and laws of the
U. S. and the constitution of Mass., their guide as far as they
can with safety to the particularly exposed condition of the said
vol. 11.	86682
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
town of Wellfleet to the enemy. And the said com. shall safely
keep all letters they may receive from, or on account of any ene-
my, and copies of such as they may send, and lay them before
the town when legally requested.”
The Congregational Church in this town united with
other churches of the order in the county, in a petition
to the Gen. Court for liberty to sell and divide the
Hersy donation. The dividend to the church here was
$300.
In 1815, the Wellfleet Woollen and Cotton Factory
was incorporated.
In 1816, the Methodist Society, having hitherto
worshipped in private houses, erected a meeting-house.
It was ordered by the town that those of this society
who are liable to be taxed for the support of the minis-
try of the Cong, minister, shall have their tax remitted.
In 1817, Mr. Hincks Gross died, se. 77.1
In 1818, Rev. Mr. Davis relinquished $50 of his
salary. For town charges $819 was raised; for schools
$200.
In 1820, Nov. 15 being app. the time of holding a State Con-
lWe are unable, in the absence of the aid which might be derived from
family records to present so full genealogy of this family as we intended.
Hincks Gross who, tradition says, “ lived for a time in the Br. Provinces,
and then removed to Wellfleet,” and whose mother was a Hincks, m. Abigail
Crowell of C. July 25, 1734, and had Hincks, above-mentioned, in 1740,
who m. Abigail, dr. of Jon. anti Rebecca (Harding) Young. They had
Lurania 17GG, who m. Higgins; Abigail 1760, who m. Bangs; Sally 1773,
who m. Chipman; Bethia 1775, who m. Dyer; Tlios. 1770 ; Hincks 1782 ;
Rebecca 1785, who m. Barnacout; Mary S. 1787, who m. Otheman;
Cynthia 1788, who m. Atwood ; Thankful 1790, whom. Willard; Deborah
1702, who m. Paine; Jonathan 1794; and Miriam 1706, whom. Atkins.
This numerous family generally attained to advanced age. We cannot
suppose that he whose mother,we have said, was Hincks, was the progeni-
tor of all of the name in this town, Truro, and Provineetown ; for, contem-
porary with him, there was Micah of Truro, who m. Hannah Freeman,
Aug. 20, 1725 ; and Thomas of Eastham, who m. Experience Freeman
about 1730. Later, was Samuel of T., who m. Apphia Freeman Aug. 16,
1768; Micah of Provineetown, who, by w. Elisa,, had Micah Jan. 28, 1782.
Alexander of P., who, by w. Elisa., had Jane Nov. 28,1793; and Joshua
F. of T., who, by w. Martha, had William Ap. 17, 1794. The delinquency
of one from whom we were led to expect the information sought from
public records necessitates the imperfection of this note.ANNALS OF WELLFLEET.
683
vention for revision of the Constitution, Reuben Arey Esq. was
chosen to represent this town in said convention ; and the revis-
ed constitution, being in due time submitted to the action of the
i town, was approved by a unanimous vote, with the exception of
the 4th and 10th Articles.
In 1821, a new meeting-house was erected by the
Cong. Society, larger than the former, with a tower and
bell.
In 1827, in Nov., Mr. Thomas Gross died, as. 48.1
In 1828, it was “ voted that no person within this town be
approbated or licensed the ensuing year to retail spirituous liquors
or wines.” The next year it was a voted that the selectmen do
as they please about approbating any for the sale of liquors.”
In 1829, the Methodist meeting-house was enlarged,
the congregation having greatly increased.
In 1830, Mar. 18, Rev. Timothy Davis was, at his
especial request, released from his pastoral relation.2
The successor of Mr. D. after a considerable interval was
1Mr. Thomas Gross, b. 1779, was s. of Hincks 2d. We have in the
preceding note adverted to our disappointment in depending on the courtesy
of a town-clerk. This obliges us to make a note here of a highly respecta-
ble family whose genealogy would come in more appropriately in connection
with Truro. The name of Stevens was in Sandwich about 1730, but soon
disappears from the records. Mr. Richard Stevens appears, by the
Provincetown records, to have had, by w. Mercy, a son Richard July 21,
17 71. By other data, it appears that Richard of Truro m. Mary Gross
and had Jonah, Mary, and Levi. Levi, s. of Rd., m. Anna Snow, dr. of
Dea. Anthony; issue: Abigail, who m. Joseph Chandler; Richard, who died
unm.; Jonah ; Mary, who m. Sam. Atkins ; Henry ; Levi; Anna, who m.
Frs. Small; and John. Jonah, s. of Levi, m. Hannah Selew, dr. of Asa,
and 2d. Mercy Selew, dr. of Asa. By 1st m. the issue : Richard, Josiah,
Sally, Levi, Hannah, and Mercy. Henry m. Rebecca Newcomb ; issue:
Rebecca, Tlios., Henry, Abigail, and Roxana. Levi m. Mehit Lombard,
dr. James, Aug. 25, 1812; issue: Betsy Ap. 25, 1814, who m. Benj. Davis ;
Jane Feb. 14,1819, who m. Warren Newcomb; Levi L. 1821, d. inf.; Mehifc.
A. 1825, d. inf.; Levi L. 1826, d. inf.; Levi F. Miy 24, 1828, whom.
Hannah K. Rich, dr. Joshua of Malden; Mehit. A. Mar. 30, 1830, who m.
Lewis Lombard; Matilda H. June 10, 1833, whom. Eph. A. Rickerson;
and Hannah K. Feb. 18, 1837, who m. Ambrose Snow Jr. John m.
Polly Coan; issue: Betsy, John, Mary, Hannah, Mercy.
2 Rev. Mr. Davis was in the ministry here 22 yrs., during which time 160
persons were added to the church. He bap. 346 persons, and united in m.
250 couples. Mr. D. was greatly respected and beloved. His son John
VV. Davis still resides here as a practising atty. at law.684
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Rev. Stephen Bailey. The sum appropriated for town
schools this year was $400, the same as the year previ-
ous and the year following.
In 1833, Dec. 4, a second Congregational Church was
organized. This, located in the south part of the town,
consisted of 42 members dismissed for the purpose from
the old church. A commodious meeting-house was
erected. The amount raised for schools was $600.
In 1834, a Methodist meeting-house was built in the
south part of town.
In 1836, the amount raised for town schools was
$700; in 1837, it was $800.
In 1838, the pastoral relation of Rev. Mr. Bailey to
the 1st Cong. Church was dissolved;1 and a call was
given to Rev. Joseph Merrill, who settled June 18, but
remained in charge only a brief period.2
In 1840, Feb. 17, Rev. Wjl II. Adams was ordained
over the 1st Cong, church.3 This year, $1000 was
raised for common schools.
In 1841, Rev. Mr. Adams requested a dismission,
which was granted; and a succession of supplies was
had in succeeding years.
In 1842, May 6, the 2d Cong. Church, which to this
time had no settled minister, received Rev. Isaac A.
Basset who "was ordained the pastor. The connection
did not long continue. Mutability is written upon
all things, but nothing, perhaps, has less permanency
than the present status of the pastoral office among re-
ligious denominations generally; and, for aught we now
see, thus will it continue until the predicted day when
“ Jew and Greek one prayer shall pour,
With eager feet one temple throng,
One God with grateful praise adore.”
1	Rev. Mr. Bailey was from Greenland, N. H.
2	Rev. Mr. Merrill grad. Dartmouth Col. 1806.
8 Rev. Mr. Adams grad. Yale Col. 1834.ANNALS OF WELLFLEET.
685
In 1843, the new Methodist place for worship was
built, and dedicated Dec. 5, being 67 ft. by 57 ft., and
having 118 pews on the lower floor, with galleries on
three sides, tower, bell, and a convenient basement
fitted for lectures and Sunday schools, centrally locat-
ed.
In 1857, jurisdiction was gr. to the U. States over
certain lands “ on Billingsgate Island on which to con-
struct a light-house and keeper’s dwelling, to replace
that destroyed the last winter.” The sum raised for
common schools was $2600. The next two succeed-
ing years, about $2800, for 12 schools, and an average
of about 600 pupils.
In 1862, Capt. Elisha W. Smith died, Aug. 2, ae. 59;
and Mr. Joseph Higgins died, Aug. 19, ae. 77.
The year 1863 has, notwithstanding the calamities
of war, been, to the maritime interests of this town,
prosperous almost beyond precedent. Vessels and
seamen have found full employment, good voyages
have been made, and the returns of good fares with
prices ruling high abundantly compensate for high
taxes and the advanced cost of living.
We close the Annals of Wellfleet with the following
tables of representatives and town officers:
representatives.
Including the time that this town was associated with Eastham
in the choice of reps., it has been represented in Gen. Court as
follows: —
Yrs,
1767.	Willard Knowles, 2.
1768.	Elisha Doane,	3.
1769.	Thos. Paine,	5.
1772. Barna’s Freeman, 10.
1774. Naaman Holbrook, 2.
1776.	Elisha Cobb,	1.
1777.	Jno. Greenough, 2.
1780. Winslow Lewis, 1.
1785. Jerem’h Bickford, 3.
1787. Hez’h Doane,	3.
1793. Sam’l Waterman, 5.
1797. Reuben Arey,	5.
1801. Leni’l Newcomb, 3.
Yrs.
1803. Reuben Rich,	2.
1809.	Josiah Whitman, 6.
1810.	Beriali Higgins, 5.
1829. Benj. R. YVitherell, 3.
1831. Jos. Holbrook 3d,	2.
1833.	Freeman Atwoocl, 1.
1834.	Eben. Freeman 2d, 5.
“ Jos. Higgins,	1.
1835.	Amnz’h Atwood, 1.
1836.	Rich’d Libbey, 2.
“ Jona. Hickman, 1.
1837.	Jno. L. Daniels, 1.
1838.	Atkins Dyer,	1.
Yrs.
1S38. Nathan Paine,	1.
1839.	Nath’l B. Wiley,	2.
“ Solo. R. Howes,	2.
1841. Seth H. Baker,	2.
1843. Isaac Paine,	2.
1845. Caleb B. Lombard,	3.
1840.	ltob’t Y. Paine,	2.
1850. Eben. Freeman,	1.
1852.	Wm. Cleverly,	1.
1853.	Rich’d Stubbs,	2.
1854.	Israel Pierce,	1.
1855.	Thos. H. Lewis,	1.
1850. Jno. Y. Jacobs,	1.686
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
SELECTMEN.
		Yrfl.		Yrs.		Yrs.
1763.	Elisha Doane,	8.	1804. Hezek’h Rich,	3.	1827. Jos. Higgins,	2.
“	Reuben Rich,	3.	“ Matthias Rider,	3.	* ‘ Benj. R. Withered	, 2.
u	Sam’l Smith,	8.	1807. David Holbrook,	2.	“ Thos. Hatch,	
1765.	Zoheth Smith,	9.	“ Steph. Atwood,	2.	1828. Micali Dyer,	4.
1769.	Nauman Holbrook	, 8.	1809. Jos. Holbrook,	12.	“ Solo. Arey,	1.
1770.	Jona. Young,	10.	“ Beriah Higgins,	5.	1829. Moses Lewis,	1.
1771.	Eleazar Atwood,	4.	“ Freeman Atwood,	8.	“ Cornelius Hamblen, 1.	
1772.	Hez’h Doane,	5.	1813. Jer’h Newcomb,	2.	“ Thos. Higgins,	2.
1775	Elisha Cobb,	5.	1814. Elisha Brown,	1.	1830. George Ward,	3.
1777.	Winslow Lewis,	1.	“ Robert Kemp,	2.	“ Sam‘1 Higgins,	1.
“	John Swett,	1.	“ Edmund Freeman,	1.	1831. Eben Freeman 2d,	3.
1779.	Joseph Smith,	5.	1815. Reuben Rich,	1.	1833. Reuben Arey Jr.,	1.
“	Barn’s Young,	1.	1816. Moses Hinckley,	3.	1837. Caleb Lombard,	5.
17S0.	Thos. Holbrook,	20.	“ Josiah Whitman,	3.	“ Thos. Higgins Jr.,	1.
31.	William Cole,	6.	1817. Sam’l Ryder,	2.	1838. Elisha Freeman,	6.
i787.	Lewis Hamblen,	13.	1819. Reuben Arey,	8.	“ Araaz’h Atwood,	3.
<(	Reuben Arey,	10.	1820. William Cole,	3.	“ Jno. Newcomb,	3.
1799.	Jno. Withered,	6.	“ Jos. Holbrook,	5.	1841. Knowles Dyer,	3.
1800.	Thos. Higgins 3d,	6.	1823. Freeman Atwood,	4.	1844. Bethuel Wiley,	
1804.	Lem’l Newcomb,	5.				
		TOWN TREASURERS.				
		Yrs.		Yrs.		Yrs.
1763.	Elisha Doane,	6.	1799. Lewis Hamblen,	12.	1823. Josiah Whitman,	10.
1766.	Epli’m Covel,	1.	1810. Sam’l Waterman,	12.	1833. Ezek’l Higgins,	6.
1770.	Ezekiel Holbrook,	30.	1813. Jer’h Newcomb,	1.	1840. Giles Holbrook,	
			TOWN CLERKS.			
		Yrs.		Yrs.		Yrs
1763.	Elisha Doane,	3.	1778. Dav. S. Greenough	, 3.	1823. Josiah Whitman,	10.
1766.	Rich’d Smith,	1.	1781. Jona. Young,	2.	1833. Ezekiel Higgins,	6.
17G7.	Jno. Greenough,	7.	1783. Sam’l Waterman,	39.	1840. Giles Holbrook.	
1774.	Hez’h Doane,	4.	1813. William Cole,	1.		
J&g* Previous to the inc. of the township, the Precinct Treasurers had been: John Rich
from 1723 to 1726 inclusive; Samuel Brown 1727-1729; Jer’h Mayo 1730-2; Israel Young
1733-41 ; Daniel Mayo 1742-56 ; Zoheth Smith 1757-59; and Elisha Doane 1760-62.THE
ANNALS OF THE TOWN
OP
DENNIS.
“Let us gather up the traditions which still exist; let us show the world,
THAT IF WE ARE NOT CALLED TO FOLLOW THE EXAMPLE OF OUR FATHERS, WE ARE AT LEAST
NOT INSENSIBLE TO THE WORTH OF THEIR CHARACTERS ; NOT INDIFFERENT TO THE SACRI-
FICES AND TRIALS, BT WHICH THET PURCHASED OUR PROSPERITY.”— Edward Everett.
(687)Jfasmfrlxon:
TO THE HON. FRANCIS BASSETT,
Counsellor at Law.
We recognize among the early pioneers of well-ordered and prosperous settle-
ments, his honored ancestry: their high social position, business aptitude, sound
judgment, inflexible integrity, and patriotic devotion commanding in successive
generations public confidence. The descendant may weU venerate his lineage. To
him, as a gentleman and scholar entitled to high esta-em, who has steadfastly
encouraged our attempt to rescue from the obliterations of time a history of our
native county, we are happy to
INSCRIBE
These Annals of the place of his nativity, as a slight memorial of the grateful
remembrance of
THE AUTHORANNALS OF DENNIS
Dennis, set off as a distinct Parish in 1721, — being
from that time known as the East Precinct, — was until
the year 1794 a constituent part of Yarmouth. It was
incorporated as a Town, June 19, 1793. The principal
Indian names were Nobscusset, Sursuit, and Qidvet}
Situation, Boundaries, etc. —It is situated in lat. 41° 45' N.
long. 70° 8' W. from Greenwich ; and extends across the penin-
sula, having Barnstable Bay on the N.; the Vineyard Sound on
the S.; bounded by Harwich and Brewster on the E.; and by
Yarmouth on the W. The township extends from N. to S. about
8 m. ; and from E. to W., at the extreme points, about 7 m., but
in the centre, between the bay and the sound, only about one-half
that distance. From Barnstable court-house to the old meeting-
house of the East Precinct, in an easterly direction, the distance
is 8 m.; from Boston, 78 m. by land, Boston, 60 m. S. E. by water.
Natural Divisions, etc. — The township is naturally divided
into two parts, North and South, by a large tract of wood. The old
country-road passes through these woods from Yarm. to Brewster,
near the head of Follen’s Pond, — at which point it commands a
tine view of Bass River and the flourishing villages near it. Not far
from this pond, E., branches from the former road the ancient high-
way to Harwich and Chatham.1 2 The woods are both oak and
1	Beginning at the west, was Nobscusset; next Sursuit, or Sesuet, now
Suet, —the northerly part of the town ; and next Quivet, written by Col.
Thacher, “ A<juiate.”
2	The principal thoroughfares at present, are, to Brewster, north of these
woods, via Dennis and E. Dennis; and to Harwich and Chathan^ across
either the upper or lower bridges of Bass River.
VOL. II.	87
(689)690
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
pine. North of them is a range of hills, —part of the chain ex-
tending from Sandwich through Barnstable, Yarmouth, Dennis,
and Brewster, to Pleasant Bay in Orleans. In Dennis, these hills
are about one mile from the north shore, and from their summits
are obtained fine views of the entire shore of Barnstable Bay
reaching from Provincetown to Monument Point in Plymouth,
—	a compass of TO or 80 m. If the prospect has little of the
beautiful in perfection, it nevertheless conveys a strong emotion
of the sublime. North of these hills the surface is uneven, and
south of them generally a plain. The general divisions of the
township as at present recognized are five.
The first, approaching from Yarmouth, on the north side of the
peninsula, is Dennis proper — often called North Dennis, — the
chief seat of the once numerous and powerful Nobscussetts, whose
chiefs Sachemus, Sabatubket, Wahwoonetshunke, Little Robin,
and Sampson, ancient records occasionally bring to mind, and the
only relics of whose reign are furnished by occasional exhuma-
tions. Here was located the old East Precinct meeting-house ;
and, towering above, on the east, stands the noted Scargo Hill.
The graves of early settlers are here, with few exceptions;1
and, surrounding the old fort built for protection against possible
aggressions on the part of the Indians, were the residences of
some of the most distinguished. The place is interesting because
of early associations.2 Peculiarly exposed to the influence of
winds, since the clearing away of the primitive forests, great
changes have been made on the hills that border the village, so
that they now appear almost naked and barren.3 There are here
1	Some of the earlier settlers were buried in the ancient grave-yard at
Yarm. The very oldest burial-place in Dennis is not that immediately
contiguous to the present meeting-houses. Whether that now known as the
Howe’s burying-ground, or that of the Winslow’s, is the most ancient, we
are unable to say; but probably the former. This, lying west of the village,
too much neglected,—we regret being obliged to say,— contains a monument,
erected some thirty years since, which bespeaks honor for him, or them,
who performed the pious duty, bearing the inscription : “ Thomas Howes,
—	married Mary Burr;—emigrated in 1637 from England, — and
brought three sons, viz. — Thomas, Joseph, and Jeremiah who was born
—	on the passage. — This monument erected in 1831. — Descendants living
in Dennis, 345 ; in Chatham, — 133 ; in other places, 396.” — The Wins-
low burying-ground is near the road leading from Nobscusset to Setucket.
2	We will not conceal our personal interest in the locality, nor the feeling
with which we visited, in 1858, the house in which our honored parent was
born Mar. 28, 1741, O. S., and from whence his parents removed with him
whilst yet an infant.
3	The rough hill of Scargo—north of which, and south of Sesuet, is a
beautiful lake of the same name — extends from the chain of hills of whichANNALS OF DENNIS.
691
two meeting-houses, — a Congregational and a Methodist. The
dwellings, irregularly scattered, are generally indicative of com-
fort and thrift.1
East Dennis embraces the continuous settlements grouped on
Sesuit Neck, on Quivet Neck, and scattered along the main,
lower, road to Setucket in Brewster, with some sparser neighbor-
hoods. There is, in East Dennis, a Methodist meeting-house.
Sesuit has been long noted for its shipbuilding. Both necks of
land are pleasantly located, and the dwellings compare favorably
with any other localities in the county.
West Dennis is the extreme southwest part of the township,
— thickly settled for the most part, thriving, engaged in the coast-
trade chiefly, and has many pleasant residences and a Methodist
meeting-house, with all the usual appliances of business and com-
fort.
South Dennis, formerly embracing the whole southern part
of the township, is now that portion intermediate of the other
divisions. It has a Congregational meeting-house, and also a
Universalist. Its numerous pleasant residences furnish ample
evidence of the enjoyments of competency, and of increasing
prosperity.2 A toll-bridge here spans Bass River, and is called
we have spoken, a little east of the old meeting-house site, and is a conspicu-
ous object for seamen approaching the south shore.
1	Perhaps a better view may be obtained of what the village once was
and now is, by noting its statistics for the beginning of the present century.
In 1800, it contained 52 dwellings and one old meeting-house — a neat and
convenient building without a steeple; a tree-mason’s lodge called Sumner’s,
located near the meeting-house, 40 ft. by 20 its dimensions, the upper
apartment of which was a hall devoted to the fraternity, and the lower a
school-room ; two wind-mills, also near the meeting-house, — five others being
located in other parts of the township, for grinding grain; 23 clusters of
salt-works, containing 14,300 ft.; and belonging to this village were five
sail of fishermen and three coasters of from 30 to 40 tons each. Although
the northern part of the township was first settled, the southernhas now the
largest population and the most business.
2	Willis notices “ a peculiarity ” of Cape Cod residences, which, he says,
“present a direct contrast to any other portion of our country: The houses
and their surroundings seem of an unsuitable inferiority of style, to those
who li ve in them. In New York, nothing is more common than a house by
which the proprietor is dwarfed, if seen coming out of the door; and, all
over fhe U. States, there is a great chance of feeling a disappointment on
seeing^ rich man, if you have, unluckily, put up your scaffolding for an
idea of him, by first seeing his house. Few dwellings on the Cape cost
over a thousand dollars, yet there are many wealthy men who live in houses
or* this cost, — men, too, whose families are highly educated, and whose sons
and daughters visit and marry in the best circles of society in Boston and
New York.” This is, in the main, correct; but, of late years, there is a692
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
the upper bridge, to distinguish it from that at West Dennis
known as the lower bridge.
Dennis Port is contiguous to West Harwich. This village is
largely interested in the fisheries, and the general appearance of
the more compact parts denotes thrift and comfort. Numerous
wharves, extended from the shore for the convenience of both
fishing and coasting, along the south part of Dennis and Har-
wich, are indicative of the large amount of business done here.1
The most important inlet from the sea, in this township, is on
the south shore and furnished by Bass River. This river, taken
with the ponds and streams that connect with it, is the largest
stretch of water in the county. The river, with Kelley’s Pond
or Bay, and Follen’s Pond communicating with it, furnishes the
chief bound between this town and Yarmouth, — Chase Garden
River or Creek, running through a salt marsh into Barnstable
Bay, furnishing the principal remaining bounds. The length of
Bass River from Follen’s Pond to the sea is 4 m.; and its mouth
is formed by beaches terminating in points, — one, on the east,
extending from the entrance of Swan’s Pond Creek 1J m.; the
other, on the west, from the entrance of Parker’s River in Yar-
mouth, 1 m. From point to point, the distance is about 35 rods.
Within these points, the river becomes wider, continuing so
about two miles and then it gradually narrows. At its entrance
is a bar on which are 5 ft. of water only at high tides, rendering
it necessary to lighten vessels of greater draught coming into
the harbor; but within the harbor are found 10 or 12 ft. of
water.
Besides the ponds already mentioned as communicating with
Bass River, are, on its eastern side salt-water ponds covering at
least 70 acres; also Grand Cove, the extent of which is 70 acres.
tendency to greater outlay in domiciliary arrangements. Still, it must strike
the stranger that there is, generally, on the Cape, “ a remarkable republi-
can simplicity in the style of buildings; little distinction that betokens
wealth; an equality that extends to every thing.”
1 Willis says of these wharves, u They have a strangely amputated look
— long projections of frame-work into the sea — a busy wharf having usually
a busy city attached to it.” At Monomoy may also be seen, in the season,
the same evidences of business, industry, and thrift. He speaks particular-
ly of the mackerel-fishery; “ the little fleets constantly visible in the dis-
tance following the ‘ schools ’ of their prey, beautiful objects, looking like
flocks of snow-white birds painted upon the blue tablet of the sea. .	.
At the head of each of the landing-places, a ‘ store * and all around ware-
houses, pyramids of new barrels, workmen, and all having a look of most
especial thrift and contentment.”ANNALS OF DENNIS.
693
These ponds and coves are really of more value to the inhabitants
than the same quantity of land would be, as they are filled with
fish and their shores abound with clams. A small brook, — the
only one in all the southern part of the township, issues from a
swamp and empties into Bass River. On the outside of the first
mentioned beach is a large body of salt-marsh.1
One mile E. S. E. from the mouth of Bass River begins a bar
called Dogfish Bar, and extends 6 m. W. to Point Gammon in
Yarmouth. It affords to vessels within it a harbor called Deep-
Hole.2
Swan-Pond-Creek, the head of which is Swan Pond, covering
120 acres, has on its margin a body of salt-marsh, and between
it and the sound is Crocker’s Neck. All these are in the S. E.
part of the township.
On the north side of the town is a small harbor, in which fish-
ing vessels are laid up for winter; it is called Bass Hole, and is
the mouth of Chase-Garden River. The largest body of marsh
in the township is about this creek.
One mile N. E. of Dennis old meeting-house, a bend in the
shore forms a cove which is denominated The Bite; more famil-
iarly known, perhaps, as Nobscusset Harbor. On the west of it
runs a point of rocks, called Nobscusset Point, extending £ m.
into the bay. This affords a shelter against N. W. winds.3
Sesuet Neck, in the north part of the township, lies between
1	West of the township, Weir-mill Brook rises in Yarmouth, runs east,
and discharges itself into Follen’s Pond. This brook, the whole of which is
in Yarm., is properly the head of Bass River; and from it was formerly
contemplated the cutting a canal into Yarm. harbor. The intervening dis-
tance to the marsh, on the N. side, is only about m., and the land is low.
The advantage of such a canal, it was thought, would more than counterbal-
ance the expense, by facilitating water communication with Boston and other
northern ports. The bar at the mouth of Bass River, it was obvious, would
prevent its general usefulness to navigation ; but it was contended that the
canal might be sufficiently remunerative in affording facilities for the smaller
kind of vessels, especially those engaged in fisheries.
2	We forbear noting the improvements made at the several localities
described. As early as the close of the last century, a pier was erected at the
end of this bar; and on the pier a store. Mr. Sylvanus Crowell also
built a pier, and made effort to deepen the channel, but without success.
3	Not far to the eastward of this locality, lies Crow’s, or Flax Pond, \ m.
from the bay, covering 6-0 acres, the pond 11 fathoms deep. The project
of a canal was conceived during the last century, for the purpose of secur-
ing a better harbor. A communication made between this pond and the
east of the Bite, passing through a swamp and low grounds to the inside of
a point of rocks lying off* Sesuit Neck, it was supposed would find ample
protection at its mouth from the violence of winds, especially from N. E.
storms most to be feared in obstructing a canal at its entrance.694
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
the Bay and Sesuet Creek which sweeps around it in a westerly
direction. In the vicinity of this creek is valuable salt marsh.
Here has been carried on much ship-building; and the business
is still continued. With this locality and with the name of Shiv-
Erick, are associated recollections of many fine vessels launched
from the much noted ship-yard. At Sesuet begin the flats which
lie in front of Brewster, Orleans, Eastham, and a part of Well
fleet; but the harbor here is convenient.
Not far east of this neck, is that of Quivet, in the N. E. par'
of the township, formed by the Bay and Quivet Creek which
constitutes in part the bounds between this town and Brewster
Here also is a still larger and valuable body of marsh. The
creek runs but a brief space, the high land approaching very
near the north shore of the town; and the mouth of this creek
also is obstructed by a bar; but as, at high tide, about 8 ft. of
water is found on the flat, the mouth of the creek affords a har-
bor.
There are, on the north shore, two brooks only, — one of which
empties into Hockanom Creek in Yarmouth, the other into Qui-
vet Creek.
The ponds that have been mentioned, and others in the town-
ship, cover 455 acres. Besides these ponds, are some cedar and
other swamps capable of being converted into good meadows or
cranberry plats, as some of them have been much to the advan-
tage of their owners.1
The best land in the town lies on the Bay side, especially on
and near Sesuet and Quivet. With the exception of these necks
and vicinities, and a few other circumscribed spots of limited ex-
tent, the land is generally light and sandy. The light land, how-
ever, is made to produce from 20 to 30 or more bushels to the
acre. Considerable English hay is cut in the northern part of
the township.2 A tract not larger than this township, with a soil
so unpropitious, would, in an inland position, yield support to
very few inhabitants; but, on the Cape, great numbers derive
their principal means of subsistence from avocations and adven-
1	There can be no doubt that Cape Cod has the natural soil and climate
to produce the cranberry in all its perfection. It may be cultivated else-
where, and anywhere ; but here the delicious fruit can be produced in all
its excellence. Though the culture be successfully attempted in every State
in the Union, the demand will still increase, and Cape Cod will occupy the
position which Malaga does in respect to raisins.
2	The only considerable exports — products of the soil — are cranberries.
Formerly, onions were produced here for export.ANNALS OF DENNIS.
695
tures upon the seas. The advantages enjoyed for these employ-
ments, and the industry and enterprise of the inhabitants in im-
proving these advantages, are nowhere better exemplified than
in this town. It is demonstrated by success, that the rewards of
exertion, enterprise, and intelligence are not confined to a mere
supply of the necessaries and conveniences of life; but that
thrift, substantial wealth, and the luxuries and refinements of
life are almost sure to follow. Better than all this, here, as in
the towns of this maritime peninsula generally, are found men,
— mex, we say, in the higher sense of the term, — with sound
minds in a sound body, possessed of proper self-respect, avell-in-
formed, honest, virtuous, contented, happy, loving the land of
their nativity, useful and esteemed in their day and generation,
finding a more than ordinary share of the full enjoyment of life.
Those departed have in large proportion been gathered to their
fathers in good old age, — and gone to honored graves in peace.1
In respect to manufactures, this town has attempted nothing
on an extended scale beyond the building of vessels, already
named,2 and the manufacture of salt. It is claimed that the
first salt produced in this country by solar evaporation was ob-
tained here by Mr. John Sears and others in 1776.3 The manu-
facture was considered of much importance to the country; for
1	Travellers, generally, —many of high position in society, — in whatever
other remarks they may indulge, unite in this confession and seem to be
struck with the discovery they have made. Says one, “ There scarce seems
to be an individual of 70 and upwards who is not a fine study for a painter.
I never saw so many handsome old men in any country in the world; — the
stern manly Pilgrim-type confirmed and perpetuated by a life of peril and
hardy exercise, while visits to foreign parts have kept the physiognomy liberal
and open. The largeness of frame of these old men — (he saw few others,)
for they seemed like a race of Anaks in comparison with modern New
Yorkers — and yet sailors are usually small men ! How account for it ?
Only by Prof. Guyot’s theory, that vegetable and human life are not permit-
ted by nature to be luxuriant together.” The remark of Russell Lowell
— that “ Jonathan of the puritanic stock, is more like the Englishman of two
centuries ago than John Bull himself is,” and that “ more of the original
ground-work and character remains,” may be especially applicable here
because the population has continued homogeneous. There has been
scarcely any admixture.
2	Ships of a large class have been built in the north part of the town, as
also many of lesser dimensions; and those constructed here have always
been commended for their model and faithful workmanship.
3	Mr. Sears obtained a patent in 1799, after many improvements had
been made on the original design ; Mr. Hatsel Kelley made other improve-
ments ; and joining interests with Mr. Sears, obtained a patent. Their
claims as original inventors were contested, and to whom the honor of the
first discovery belongs is a question not for us to decide.696
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
the article bare a high price. Before the peace of 1783, salt had
risen to $8 per bushel, and during the interdiction of commerce,
just before the war of 1812, it rose again to S7.1 Much capital,
here, as in other Cape towns, became invested in the manufac-
ture. That this business has declined here, as elsewhere, need
not be repeated.2
1 It might be supposed that, in these circumstances, every encouragement
would have been given by Congress to the domestic production of this article
of necessity. This was so far from being realized that it was subject to
duties amounting in the aggregate to 20 cents per bu.; and when the foreign
production was again poured into the market, by the return of peace and
free commerce, the regular profits of the manufacturer once estimated at
from 15 to 20 cents per bu., became small indeed. Under the operation of
acts levying duties, in 1808, works of the value of $1000, producing 250 bu.
annually, at a mercantile value of 66| cents per. bu., afforded to the owner
only about $25, after deducting duties, cost of repairs, and attendance ! The
capital thus invested on the Cape was about $400,000 ; and the return that
year was 100,000 bu. The relative magnitude of the investment in the seve-
ral towns was, in superficial feet (in the measurement of vats a superficial foot
being understood to express a space one foot wide and ten feet in length)
as follows: —
Dennis, 650,800 ft.
Brewster, 623,300
Barnstable, 415,582
Chatham, 408,360
Yarmouth, 307,500 Truro, 98,506
Provincetown, 159,615 Wellfleet, 60,050
Eastham, 152,560 Harwich, 60,000,
Orleans, 146,500
with Falm. and Sandwich, in which towns the manufacture was carried on to
a considerable extent, not included in the returns.
a We may, however, since Dennis claims to have had precedence in the
improved mode of manufacture, record the following: The expense, original-
ly, of the erection of the works, was $1 to $1.25 per sup. ft., in which the
labor bare the proportion of J; and planks, boards, joist etc. f. The pro-
cess of manufacture was as follows:	The water being raised by a pump
placed a little below low water-mark and moved by wind, was led by troughs
or pipes of logs first into a range of vats called water-rooms. These vats,
with upright sides, were usually oblong. 18 by 36 feet in breadth and length,
and about 9 in. deep ; standing from 2 to 5 ft. from the ground and elevated on
piles or tumbles. In the first set of vats, the sea-water remained generally
about 3 days for evaporation ; it was then, the strength of the water being
such as to constitute a brine, drawn off by a conduit to another range of vats
called pickle-rooms, in which after depositing a proportion of lime and other
earthy matter minute cubical crystals soon began to form on its surface. This
was the signal for another remove ; and the liquid was then drawn into other
vats called salt-rooms, where the crystals that before were exceeding fine,
would soon conglomerate and form large and heavy cubes sinking to the
bottom of the vats. The salt thus accumulated, being complete, was raked
into heaps, taken out, and deposited in a dry ware-house. The period of
the entire process was about 3 weeks. In the time of Spring, the liquid that
remained after leaving the pickle-rooms, and which was called bittern, would
yield two or three ratings; and this bittern, after the sea-salt or muriate of
soda was withdrawn, was still impregnate with Glauber-salts — the manufac-
ture of the latter article being, as a concomitant, effected by boiling. The
sea-salt obtained was of good color, and considered superior in strength by
\ to the best imported. The weight of a bushel was about 80 lbs. InANNALS OF DENNIS.
697
Preliminary to proceeding to the doings of the town,
a few brief remarks and statistics may be expedient,
that its status when entering upon its municipal career
may be more perspicuous. Dennis, prior to its incor-
poration, was, as has been stated, known from 1721
many years as the East Precinct of the town of Yar-
mouth. A few years after its being constituted a Pre-
cinct, a church was gathered here and fully organized;
and, June 22, 1727, Rev. Josiah Dennis was ordained
its pastor and the minister of the precinct.
The first meeting to arrange for parish organization
was held the last day of Feb. 1721-2, when 26 free-
holders assembled at the house of Nathaniel Howes.
Arrangements for building a meeting-house were made
at a meeting, Mar. 7, Judah Paddock acting as precinct
clerk ; and, Ap. 9, a book of parish records was opened.
In 1723, Mar. 22, Rev. Daniel Greenleaf, as appears
building the vats, soft, white-pine plank was used for the floors, — the harder
woods injuriously increasing the weight of the structure and being also apt
to warp. The height at which the vat was placed was regulated by the
quality of soil underneath; if loamy and wet, the vats were placed higher
to allow a free circulation of air,— otherwise the dampness of the soil would
both retard the process and injure the structure. A deep, sieve-like sand,
from which no moisture arises, was most favorable; and hence the shores
of this peninsula afforded peculiar advantages. To promote the evapora-
tion of the merely aqueous parts of the sea-water, various contrivances have
been in practice. The first cause of evaporation being heat, — the sun's
heat the maximum; the problem next to be solved was the extension of the
surface. The vats we have described were furnished with movable roofs;
and, besides the attendance in the account we have given of the process, it
was, of course, necessary that these roofs or covers be removed or replaced
with a constantly judicious regard to evaporation. If rain threatened, the
roofs were moved over the vats. Sometimes a sudden shower coming up,
the attendants were obliged to hasten to the works and perform this duty
with alacrity. The roofs were constructed in various ways, as was also the
apparatus for moving them.
The chemical properties of the bittern were for some time unknown. The
manufacture of Glauber-salts soon became an important branch. It is said
that an eminent physician made much use of these salts, recommending
them as of great value. He sold in potions, at Is. 4d. each. These salts
being now soon for sale at Is. 6d. per lb., the doctor’s prescription was no
longer sought in potions. Soon the salts were offered at 4^d. per lb. This
changed the doctor’s penchant for Glauber-salts, and he no longer kept them
as his favorite medicine; they were, he said, “ cold things—not fit for use.”
VOL. ii.	88698
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
by the records, was called to the ministry of this pre-
cinct. As he had been already 15 yrs. the pastor of
the parent church, a reasonable inference is that this
call was rather indicative of the esteem in which he
was held by his late parishioners and designed as an
expression of their satisfaction if they might still en-
joy his ministrations,—he having the option of taking
charge of the new parish, — rather than of a well-
grounded expectation that he would accept. The
name of Mr. Deming was then proposed, Ap. 15.1 In
1724, Nov. 5, Mr. Barnabas Taylor appears as a candi-
date ; he visited the parish and officiated here, but no
settlement of a minister occurred until several years
after.2 Rev. Josiah Dennis was called, June 24, 1725 ;
but he was not instituted until the next year, June 22,
1727, at which time he received ordination and the
church was organized.3
The church Covenant, sufficiently “ orthodox,” was
signed by the Pastor elect, and
Dea. Joseph Hall, Joseph Burge, Joseph Hall Jr.,
Joseph Howes Sr., Judah Hall,	Joseph Burge Jr.,
John Niciielson,4	John Paddock,	Daniel Hall.
“ The following sisters, being dismissed a few days before, from
the church in the other part of the town, -were received into
communion, August 6, namely,
Deborah Paddock, Sarah Howes Jr., Mercy Sears,
Mary Paddock, Susanna Howes, Priscilla Sears,
Elizabeth Paddock, Lydia Howes,	Sarah Sears,
Mehitable Crosby, Thomasin Burge, Rebecca Paddock,
Mary Hall,	Elisabeth Nicholson, Mehitable Hall,
1	By reference to annals of Yarm., it will be seen that Rev. Mr. Dexter
of Dedham had visited the parish in 1722, perhaps by request, and possi-
bly at the suggestion of Mr. Greenleaf, and that subsequently the advice of
neighboring ministers was asked relative to his settlement.
2	Rev. Mr. Taylor, b. in Y., grad. H. C. 1721, was set. in Bristol, 1729.
3	The ordination sermon was preached by Rev. Sam. Wigglesworth of
Ipswich, from Rom. x. 15.
4	This name is doubtless intended for Nickerson.ANNALS OF DENNIS.
699
Keziah Eldred,	Sarah Burge,	Mary Hall Jr.,
Sarah Howes,	Elizabeth Burge,	Mehitable Hall	Jr.,
Dorcas Howes,	Hannah Sears,	Rebecca Hall;
and two others who were inhabitants of the West-precinct, and
till then only children of the church, did then renew their cove-
nant by joining with this church, namely, Priscilla Gorham, wife
of Josiah, and Elizabeth Whelden, wife of Thomas.”1
In 1761, Aug. 24, the meeting-house having been enlarged and
repaired, a sale was made of the increased accommodations
gained, as follows : —
“Pew, by pulpit stairs, to
Dea. Daniel	Hall,	£216.05
The old ministerial pew,
to Mr. Lot Hallet,	238.00
Pew, right hand of front
door, one quarter to
each, to Mr. Christo-
pher Crowell, Mr. Ju-
dah Sears, Christopher
Crowell Jr., and Enoch
Crowell,	214.00
Pew, left hand of front
door, to Mr. Sam’l El-
dridge,	198.16
“ The sale left £100 overplus.” It is proper to state that
the reckoning is in “ old tenor.”
Rev. Mr. Dennis, having deceased Aug. 31,1763, was
succeeded by Rev. Nathan Stone,2 * who “ was ord. Oct.
1 “ The first lecture, as a preparation for the sacrament, was held Aug. 4;
text, Amos iv. 12. 4 * * * 8 Prepare to meet thy God, O Israel *; and, Aug. 6, the
sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was first administered,” on which occasion
the female members above-named were received. The following subsequent
entries also made by Mr. Dennis, may be of interest; 44 Nov. 16, 1740, the
Lord’s Supper was administered out of course for want of wine at the pro-
per season. Dec. 29, a church-meeting to consider of ways and means to
obtain our part of the vessels which belonged to the church in this town
while we continued together. Dea. Hall and bro. Ebenezer Hall were
appointed a committee.”
8 The venerable Nathan Stone of Southboro* preached from 2 Tim.
ii. 12. It may be proper alsotostate that Rev. Josiah Crocker had been
invited as a supply Sept. 19, 1763, and, Dec. 7, called to the pastorate.
Nothing further appears, except that the parish was, the following May,
again “ on the look-out for a minister,” and, July 30, presented a call to
Pew, lett oi mam aisle,
to Mr. Jos. Hall,	£282.
Pew, next left, to Thos.
and Seth Tobie,	213.
Pew, next men’s aisle, to ♦
Zaehery Sears,	170.
Pew, right of main aisle,
to Eleazer Nickerson, 252.
Pew, in the middle, | to
Sam’l Baker, and J to
his son Isaiah,	222.
Pew, next women’s aisle,
to Jno. Chapman,	213700
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
17, 1764, over the Second Church of Christ in Yar-
mouth.” 1
We proceed now to what may appropriately come
under the head of
Progress and Doings of the Town, etc. — Dennis
was inc. as a town, June 19, 1793.2 Atherton Hall
Esq. was authorized by Act. of Inc. “ to issue his war-
rant directed to some principal inhabitant requiring
him to warn and give notice, to the inhabitants of
said town to assemble and meet at some suitable time
at the meeting-house in said town, sometime in the
month of March or April next, to choose such officers
as towns are required to choose at their annual town-
meeting in the month of March or April annually.”
The warrant was issued, Jan. 10, 1794, to Jeremiah
Howes; was served by him, Feb. 20, and the meeting
was held, Mar. 3, at 1 o’clock, p. m. Lt. Jeremiah
Howes was chosen moderator; Mr. Elisha Bassett,
clerk and treasurer; Lt. Howes, Mr. Jonathan Bangs,
Mr. Stone, which he accepted Sept. 13, 1764, whereupon the ordination
was app. for the 17th proximo.
1	Perhaps the following additional items of church matters may be per-
tinent: “ Feb. 29, 1768, Mr. John Sears chosen deacon in the room of
Dea. Ebenezer Paddock deceased.” — “Mar. 9, 1769, Mr. Joseph
Howe, 2d, to officiate as deacon in place of Dea. Daniel Hall deceased.”
— “June 19, 1782. Mr. Anthony Howes chosen deacon.” — “ Feb. 25,
1770, Jonathan Howes requested baptism for his children upon owning
covenant, Granted.” — “Mar. 9, 1789, Stephen Sears and Joseph
Howes chosen deacons.”
2	The best evidence that in the 37 years’ ministry of Rev. Josiah Dennis
he was personally acceptable to a past generation and that his memory was
hallowed is found in this fact, — that when the East Precinct of Yarmouth
was about to become a town, so long after his decease, a new generation of
men, a portion only of the former surviving, determined, as a token of honor
to his worth, to give the new township his name. Mr. D. admitted to church
membership 159 persons, and bap. 560. — By his wife Bathsheba, Mr.
Dennis had born to him Hannah Oct. 4, 1730; Sarah Aug. 6, 1732 ;
Abigail June 8, 1734 ; Josiah Ap. 18, 1736, d. inf.; Sarah Aug. 18, 1737 ;
Josiah Aug. 22, 1739, d. inf.; and Bathsheba Feb. 9, 1731-2, d. inf. By a
2d. m. with Phebe Bangs 1746, he had Bathsheba Sept. 6, 1748 ; and Phebe
Oct. 30, 1750.—Evidence is found of the republican simplicity of the
times, in the fact that, Mar. 13, 1764, an appropriation of £2.8 was made
by the East Precinct, “for the payment of funeral charges and gravestones
for Rev. Mr. Dennis.”ANNALS OF DENNIS.
701
and Lt. Joseph Sears, selectmen; and also the usual
complement of assessors, constables, collector, survey-
ors of highways, fence-viewers, hog-reeves, pound-
keeper, field-drivers, surveyors of lumber, etc.
At the next meeting, Mar. 11, Capt. Isaiah Hall and Mr. Elisha
Bassett were app. a com. “to settle with the treasurer of the
town of Yarmouth;” the sum of £75 was, April 11, ordered to
be assessed for the poor; and, May 26, the bounds between this
town and Yarmouth were settled by agents appointed to the
duty, namely, Messrs. Thos. Thacher, Isaac Matthews, Edmund
Bray, and Joseph Howes on the part of Yarmouth, and Messrs.
Jeremiah Howes, Jona. Bangs, and Joseph Sears on the part of
this town.1 The bounds between this town and Harwich were
also renewed and settled, June 16, by the selectmen of this
town, and Jona. Snow and Eben. Broadbrooks, selectmen of Har-
wich.2 For schools, £40 was appropriated, Nov. 3; and Capt.
Judah Paddock and Lt. Jeremiah Howes were app. “to apportion
said money to the districts according to the usual method ” For
1	“ Beginning at the south of the county road leading from Yarm. to
Dennis, at three white-oak trees marked and standing at the S. W. corner
of Edward Howes’ upper field, between Lothrop Taylor’s and David Hall’s ;
sets thence S. 53° E. 248 rods as trees are marked, till it comes to a stake
and stone standing on the S. side of the country road to the falling away of
a hill to the westward of Jon. Whelden’s late of Dennis, dec.; then by the
country and Bass River road southeasterly 146 rods to a stake and stone
standing at the N. E. corner of Capt. Sam. Gray’s land and N. W. corner
of Wid. Abigail Whelden’s land; sets thence S. 40° W., 44 rods into
Follen’s Pond; thence southeasterly through the middle of said pond, and
southerly through the middle of the main channel of Bass River into the
South Sea. Then beginning at the first mentioned three white-oak trees,
and sets thence northeasterly by the country road that leads from Yarm. to
Dennis, 68 rods to a stake and stone at the S. W. corner of Edward Howe’s
field and S. E. corner of David Hall’s field and on the northwesterly side
of the way ; and thence northwesterly 42 rods in Edward Howes’ and David
Hall’s range to a brook in said range, and as said brook runs into the main
creek, and as said creek and Bass Hole runs into the North Sea.” It was
“ further agreed that the privilege of fishing, together with the Indian-iand
at Bass River, and the whaling-land at Black Earth, shall remain for the
benefit of both towns.”
2	“ Beginning at a rock lying about 37 ft. to the S. of Bound-brook bridge
and 14 ft. E. of said brook, — marked with the letter B, — said brook is on
the N. side of said towns; from thence sets S. about 5° E. to a heap of stones
on the S. side of Setucket road; from thence the same course as trees are
marked to a large black-oak tree now standing on the N. side of Chatham
road, and marked thence on the s^me course as trees are marked, to Benj.
Gage’s house, formerly, deceased; and thence on the same course as trees
are marked until it enters the Sea on the S. side of said towns, which will
be near the mouth of Herring River.”702
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
parish charges, £105 was raised ; and for other town charges, £30.
Mr. Judah Baker died this year, Ap. 14 and Mr. Samuel
Chapman, Mar. 30. Mr. Allen Kelley, of Harwich, d. Nov.
14, 1791.
In 1795, a meeting-house having been erected in
the South part of the town, was consecrated, Jan. 1;1 2
and, Jan. 20, “ it was agreed that Rev. Mr. Stone preach
in the South part their proportionate time ; Sursuet
road to be the dividing line between the N. and S.
parts of the parish.” It was also “ voted to repair the
meeting-house ” in the north part of the town. In
the South Parish, Rev. Mr. Stone preached every third
Sunday. There was in town, at this date, “ a small
Friend’s, or Quaker, meeting-house situated on the east
side of Follen’s Pond; at this, five families belonging
in this town attended, with others from Yarmouth and
Harwich. There were also, at this date, thirteen fami-
lies of Baptists in the south village. The rest of the
inhabitants in every part of the township were of the
ancient order, and warmly attached to their pastor, the
Congregational minister, and not disposed to change.”3
It was voted this year, that “ the town approves of Browning
Kelley keeping a ferry over Bass River.” For schools, $100 was
voted; and $200 for the poor. Mr. Samuel Howes died this
year, Feb. 18 ;4 Mr. Reuben Baker, Mar. 5 ; Mr. Thomas New-
comb, Mar. 18; and Mr. Josiah Baker, Sept. 25.
In 1796, Mr. Edmund Sears died Oct. 12, se. 85.5
1Mr. Judah Baker had, by w. Mercy, Timo. Ap. 25, 1732; also Bar-
nabas, Judah, etc.
2	It is mentioned that this edifice had “ a steeple.”
3	Of the business of the south part of the town at this date, we gather
from incidental statistics that there were as yet “ no salt-works in Bass River
village, although several were about to be constructed. The inhabitants
owned 19 sail of fishermen of about 40 tons burthen each, and 4 coasters.
Three small wharves had been built on the eastern side of the river.”
4	Mr. Samuel Howes had, by w. Mary, Elisha Sept. 30, 1731.
5	See p. 194; also Annals of Chatham, pp. 205, 209, 216, 591, 596, 601,
607, 609; and Vol. I. 137. Air. Richard Sears, the Pilgrim ancestor,
was located between Sursuit and Quivet Creeks. He was purchaser of part
of this neck of land, and built his house on the site that is still recogniza^ANNALS OF DENNIS.
703
In 1797, the amount voted for schools, was $333,33. A por-
tion of the town’s commons was laid out;1 also “a burial-place
near the north meeting-house; ”2 and land was voted to Rev.
Mr. Stone “for a garden-spot.”
In 1798, a com. was app. “to sell commons-land;” and the
town “ voted that cattle may run on the commons all the year.”
A petition was presented to the Gen. Court this year, Jan. 3, in
behalf of Baptists in this town, Harwich, and Chatham, signed
by Job Chase and others, “ for incorporation as the Baptist Relig-
ious Society of the town of Harwich.”
In 1799, the town voted $240 to defray the expense of small-
pox in the family of Joshua Crowell.
In 1800, the amount raised for schools was $300.
In 1801, Mr. Seth Tobey died, Aug. 31, ae. 85 ; and Mr. Jon-
athan Howes, Oct. 15, ae. 72. Mr. David Seabury also died
this year.
In 1802, “the number of dwelling-houses on the south side of
the county road, was 100,3 the greater part of these situated near
ble. He d. here in 1676, se. 86, and was buried in the old cemetery at
Yarm. where stands the monument to his memory, an engraving of which
appears in our pages, erected by one of* his descendants. Mr. Samuel
Sears, b. 1663, s. of Paul, m. Mercy Mayo, dr. Sam!., and resided in Har-
wich, now Brewster. They had Hannah 1685; Sam. 1687; Nath. 1689
whom. Susanna Grey 1712 and d. 1720; Tamson 1691 ; Jona. 1693; Joseph
1695; Joshua 1697 who in. Mercy Thacher, dr. Jno., and removed to Ct.,
whose fifth issue was Isaac of Revolutionary memory; Judah 1699 who m.
Mary Paddock and removed to Rochester; John 1701 who m. Grace
Paddock and had John who wrent to R. I., Ezra who perished in the Magee
storm, and Enoch; Seth 1703 who m. Priscilla Ryder and d. 1750; and
Benj. 1706 who m. 3 times and had issue. Edmund, b. 1711, mentioned
above, s. of Paul, who m. Hannah Crowell, dr. Christ’r, lived in Quivet, and
had Edm-, Josh., Christ’r, and Elkanah. Ebenezer, b. 1694, elder bro~of
Edm., removed to Ct. Paul, b. 1695, another bro., removed to Rochester.
Thomas, b. 1699, a bro. of the last, went to Ply. Joshua, b. 1708, same
family, removed to Ct. Daniel, youngest bro., m. Mary Snow of E., and
had Micajah, Paul, Enos, and David. Silas, s. of Lt. Silas who d. 1697 a
prominent man, lived in E. Dennis and had Phebe 1694 ; Silas 1695 ; Sarah
1697; Hannah 1701; Thos. 1702 ; James 1704; and Eleazar 1706 who
lived in Yar. Thomas, bro. of Silas, settled in Newport, R. I. Joseph
m. Hannah Hall in 1700, and had Priscilla 1701; Hannah 1703; Zechariah
1706 who went to Ct.; Joseph 1708; Stephen 1710; Rowland 1711;
Barnabas 1714 who went to Rochester; Peter 1716; Bethia 1718; Silas
1720 who went to Roch. ; and Thankful 1728.
1	The persons to whom land was assigned, were Nathan Stone, Elisha
Howes, John Howes, John Howes, Jr., James Howes, Jas. Howes, Jr.,
Josiah Howes, Noah Howes, Neh. Howes, and others.
2	The persons app. to lay out the burial-place were Peter Sears, Dan.
Howes, Jer. Howes, Dan. Eldredge, and Judah Paddock.
3	Of these dwellings, “ two only were more than one story in height.”704
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Bass River and constituting a well-built village, the inhabitants
of which were increasing in wealth, and the population rapidly
augmenting.” The village of “ Suet contained 36 dwelling-houses
standing on Sursuit and Quivet Necks and lands adjacent, and
owned here were 5 sail of fishermen.” There were then “here
24 salt-works containing 19,500 ft.”1 Mr. Moses Burgess died
this year, Oct. 29.
In 1803, it was again “voted to repair the meeting-house, and
make and sell pews.” The new pews, in the old or north meet-
ing-house were sold, Dec. 5, as follows : —
Pew at end of women’s
front seats, to Joshua and
Elkanah Sears, for	$198.
Pew adjoining, to Jeremiah
and Daniel Howes,	156.
Middle pew in women’s
seats, to Capt. Judah Pad-
dock,	118.
Pew adjoining • Capt. Pad-
dock’s and the aisle, to
Capt. Edmund Sears,	195.
Pew at the end of men’s
seats,to Nathan andBenj.
Hall,	104.
Pew where the west door
Mr. Stephen Hall died, Nov. 27, se. 67,
was, to Joseph Sears of
Harwich,
Pew where east door was,
to Joseph Hall,	114.
Pew S. W. corner, to Josiah
Hall,
Pew S. E. corner, to Henry
Hall,
Pew S. E. corner in gallery,
to Elisha Howes Jr. and
Isaac Vincent,
Pew S. W. corner in gal-
lery, to Collins Howes
and Judah Hall,
82.
82.
22.
19.
In 1804, Ap. 26, Rev. Nathan Stone died in the 67th
year of his age and the 40th of his ministry, revered
and lamented.2 His ministry was eminently peaceful
xThe Collections of the Hist. Soc., 1802, say, “When compared with
Nobscusset, it may be denominated a pleasant village ; but in comparison
with the village of Sandwich, there is little or no beauty in it. It is a
flourishing place; and what contributes principally to its prosperity is its
numerous and valuable salt-works.”
2 See p. 220. Rev. Nathan Stone was great gr. s. of Mr. Simon Stone
of Watertown who came from Eng. with his father Simon whose w. was
Joanna Clark; grand-s. of the venerable Nathaniel of Harwich, since
Brewster; and s. of Rev. Nathan of Southboro. See Vol. I. 390-2. Rev.
Nathan of Southboro*, b. in Harwich 1708, and m. 1st Judith Fox Oct. 21,
1734, 2d. Mary Thacher May 16, 1751, and d. May 3, 1781, se. 73, was
the father of Rev. Nathan, b. in Southboro* Oct. 11, 1737, and grad. II.
C. 1762, settled here 1764, and d. 1804, as above. He m. Mary Cushing,
dr. Rev. Job of Shrewsbury. Shed. Ap. 28,1790, ae. 49. He had Nathan;
Mary who m. Doct. Horton ; Job C. who m. dr. of Joshua Howes; Nath’l;ANNALS OF DENNIS.
705
and quiet. It was peculiarly the prerogative of cler-
gymen of that day to enjoy the confidence and esteem
of their parishioners and thus to exercise a large and
salutary influence. Mr. Stone was particularly distin-
guished in this respect. Dignified and grave, without
bigotry or intolerance; sincere, upright, and sympa-
thetic ; a good scholar and acceptable preacher; if he
received a large share of the deference which at that
period was accorded to the office of a Christian minis-
ter, he was also not without his trials. One of the most
discouraging was, that the permanency of his flock was
not as he would have desired. Distant places invited
to a more fertile soil, and many of the most respecta-
ble families of his charge disappeared from time to
time by removals.1 In this respect, however, he only
shared the experience of pastors on the Cape from a
very early period. We have, in former pages, sug-
gested that perhaps no other portion of our common
Bridget; Judith; Joanna; John; Jacob. During his ministry, Mr. S
admitted 209, and bap. 843. His sermons were seen by us, some eight
years since, then in possession of his daughter, Miss Judith Stone, an intelli-
gent and venerable maiden lady who d. in 1857, in the old mansion; they
were beautiful specimens of chirography, but so closely and finely written
as to require a stronger vision than is given to most persons at the present
day, to be read with facility. In the Columbian Centinelof May 26, 1804,
is a notice of his decease, from which article we extract the following:
“ The able divine, the devout Christian, the honest man, and the patriot is
no more. His charge respected him as a father, and he was venerated and
esteemed wherever known ; exemplary, laborious and devout; independent,
liberal, and patriotic.” In the Mass. Hist. Coll, of 1802, Mr. S. yet living,
was spoken of by a clerical friend, on this wise : “ Vir humilis, mitis, blandus,
advenarum hospes; suis commodis in terra non studens, reconditis the-
sauris in ccelo. ” That this concise sketch was not incorrect, we might
infer from the sermon preached at his funeral by Rev. Epli’m. Briggs of
Chatham : “ A shining light has been removed from this golden candlestick.
The world is deprived of one of the best of men, and this church and peo-
ple of an excellent minister. The house of God now mourns the loss of
one of Zion’s favorite sons. While he labored in this vineyard, how faith-
ful ! ” We take pleasure in recording one other sentence uttered by the
preacher on that occasion, as honorable to generations departed: “ The in-
habitants of this place have been remarkable for their union, and attach-
ment to the ministers of the Gospel.”
1 To the church in Ashfield, 15 members were dismissed, and 28 to other
churches between the years 1780 and 1800.
VOL. II.	89706
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
country has done so much in proportion to its extent,
to populate other parts of our land or has its sons and
daughters represented so widely in nearly every State
of the American Union. Very many of the ancient
families of the Cape have representatives also in the
Br. Provinces, especially in New Brunswick and Nova
Scotia.
After the decease of Rev. Mr. Stone, we find, June
3, Rev. Mr. Shaw of Easthain preaching here and ad-
ministering the sacraments; and, July 2, the parish
left vacant is “ on the lookout for a minister.” Rev.
Mr. Bascom was then employed, and his settlement pro-
posed without success. Rev. Caleb Holmes was then
called, Nov. 5; and gravestones were ordered by the
parish for Mr. Stone. Salt-works lots were ordered to
be laid out at Black Earth.
In 1805, Rev. Mr. Holmes was ordained, the first
Wed. in Jan.1 The town refused, by a large vote, to
permit a bridge to be built across Bass River. The
same result was had the following year.
Mr. Philip Howes died this year, Oct. 10; and in 1807, Mr.
Edward Sears 2 and Mr. Joseph Howes ; also Mr. Knowles
Tobey, Sept, 13, se. 63.
In 1808, this town united with other towns in petitioning the
President of the U. States, “ to suspend the embargo laws.”
In 1809, this town united with others in memorializing the
President and Congress “ on the state of the country.” Mr.
’Rev. Mr. Holmes was from Plym., b. 1780, and grad. H. C. 1802.
* Mr. Willard Sears, b. 1714, son of Capt. Jno. who d. 1739, m.
Susanna Howes, dr. of Eben., and d. 1705. He had sons Edw., Reuben,
Eben., and Willard. Edward m. Bethia Sears, dr. Dea. Jno., and had
Edw., Sam., and John, and d. 1807., Reuben m. 1st, Rhoda Mayo, and
2d, Abig. Vincent, and had Willard, David, Reuben, Philander, Thos., and
Orin. Eben lived in Y., m. Gray, and had Joshua who went to Boston,
see p. 234; Charles now of Y.; Willard of N. Bedford; and Thomas.
Willard, bro. of Eben., m. Hannah Sears, dr. Edm., lived in Brewster,
and had Eben. and Willard. John, s. of Edward, m. Mercy Howes, and
was father of Philip H. Sears Esq. of Boston.ANNALS OF DENNIS.
707
Christopher Sears died this year, se. 56 j1 and Mr. Josiah
Hall, Jan. 3, se. 78.2
In 1810, Mr. Josiah Howes died June 12, se. 71; Mr. Judah
Baker, Sept. 29;3 and Mr. William Howes Nov. 17, se. 78.
In 1811, Mr. Watson Baker d.; and in 1812, Sept. 20, Mr. John
Nickerson.4
In 1813, Rev. Caleb Holmes died, Mar. 21, ae. 33.5
In 1814, Mar. 21, Rev. Joseph Haven was invited to
preach to the North Parish, vacant by the decease of
Mr. Holmes; and, Ap. 21, a call was extended to him,
with the offer of “ $600 per annum and the improve-
ment of the parish wood-lot and cleared lands.”6 He
was ordained, July 27, with the understanding that he
was to officiate in the South Parish meeting-house ten
years, — the proportionate part of time to be deter-
mined by relative taxes; and in the event of entire
and final separation of the North and South as inde-
pendent parishes, the parish-lands were to be divided
in proportion to the taxes paid at the time of separa-
tion.
Precautionary arrangements were made for defence of the town
in case of invasion. The Nobscusset Pier Co., Daniel Howes
and others, were inc. this year, and authorized “ to build on the
easterly side of Nobscusset Point, a pier of stone and timber,
'Mr. Christopher Sears, b. 1753, s. of Edm.,m.Mercy Snow of Br.,
and had Christ’r who was lost at sea 1816 ; William who removed to Dorch.;
and Lot.
2	Mr. Josiah Hall, b. 1731, was s. of Josiah and Rebecca.
3	Mr. Judah Baker m. Mary Look, and had Allen 1765 who d. Jan. 19,
1830; Judah 1771 who d. June 10, 1830; Heman 1729 who d. Jan. 9,
1860 ; Peter, and Charles.
4	Mr. John Nickerson had by w. Mary, Isaiah 1774, who d. 1862.
5	The parish, after the decease of Rev. Mr. Holmes, voted to continue
his salary to his widow “ so long as the neighboring ministers preach to
supply.” The beautiful exhibition of fraternal regard, which was a custom
long prevailing among the pastors of New England, and the consequent
postponement of any hasty arrangements for the call of a new minister until
after this expression of sympathy is now a usage fading away. Mr. Holmes,
during his brief ministry, adm. to the church 40 members, and bap. Ill
persons. By his w. Lucy who d. Ap. 25,1811 he had issue whod. infants;
his 2d w., Eliza, by whom he had Caleb 1812 d. inf., m. 2d Rev. Mi. Ha-
ven.
6	Rev. Mr. Haven was from Dover, N. II., and grad. H. C. 1810.708
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
600 ft. in length, more or less ” Mr. Judah Baker died Jan. 14,
ae. 81 ;l and Mr. Samuel Howes, in Dec., ae. 72.
In 1815, Feb. 6, a committee was chosen “to fix the
line for the division of the North and South Parishes.
This measure was in contemplation immediately upon
the decease of Mr. Holmes.2
The town united with others in memorial respecting treaty ar-
rangements in regard to the fisheries. Mr. Nathan Crowell
o	o
died this year, Aug. 9;3 4 and Doct. Zabina Horton, a distin-
guished practitioner, d. Nov. 14.
In 1816, Mr. Isaac Vincent died Jan. 18; Mr. Edward
Howes, June 1, ae. 77;4 and Mr. Thomas Hall, Oct. 3.5
In 1817, June 16, the 2d Cong. Church, in the
South part of the town, was organized and called to
the pastorate Rev. John Sanford.6
Mr. Abraham Howes died, Jan. 19, ae. 77;7 Mr. Isaiah Hall,
Jan. 30; and Mr. John Sears, June 9.
In 1818, resolves were passed in town-meeting in
respect to “ taverners and retailers of ardent spirits,”
designed to promote temperance.
Rev. Mr. Sanford was ord. pastor of the South Church,
Dec. 30. His engagement was to officiate one-fourth
part of the time in the Cong, meeting-house at Harwich,
the society over which he was settled in this town be-
ing few in numbers and of comparatively feeble means
1	Mr. Baker, b June 11, 1733, was s. of Judah and Jane. His brother
Seth, b. May 6, 1739, d. Dec. 8, 1828.
2	It was agreed that the dividing-line shall be as follows: “ Beginning at
the Chatham road on the Yarmouth line, running easterly by said road to
the house of Seth Bangs; and still easterly to the Brewster and Harwich
line near the north side of White Pond. ”
3	Mr. Nathan Crowell was father of the present Seth Crowell, Esq.
4Mr. Edward Howes, b. Mar. 21, 1739, s. of Sam’l, who d. Oct. 27,
1772, by w. Jerusha. Of the same family were Sam’l 1744, who d. 1818 ;
John 1746, who d. Sept. 11, 1832, se. 86.
5 Mr. Thos. Hall was father of Christopher who d. 1857.
8 Rev. Mr. Sanford was from Berkley, b. 1790, grad. Brown, 1812.
7 Mr. Abraham Howes was s. of Judah who d. Jan. 5, 1786, and had,
by w. Susanna, issue: Wm. June 25, 1732, d. 1810; Abm. Aug. 22, 1734,
d. inf.; Elisa. 1 738; Abm. Nov. 8, 1740; Susanna 1743; and Judah May
2, 1748.ANNALS OF DENNIS.
709
for full ministerial support. Before his ministry closed,
however, its numbers and ability so increased that the
necessity for such arrangement was obviated.
Mr. John Nickerson died Sept. 20, ae. 74 and Mr. James
Nickerson, Oct. 5. Mr. Stephen Tobey d. June 29, 1820, ae.
79;1 2 and Mr. John Chapman, Dec. 28.
In 1821, numerous individuals certificated to the
Methodists.
In 1822, Mr. Nathaniel Howes died May 28,. ae. 77 ;3 and
Mr. John Baker, Aug. 16, ae. 78.4 Mr. Micajah Sears d. in
1828; also Mr. Jeremiah Crowell, Feb. 6; Mr. Edward
Crowell, in Mar., ae. 69; and Mr. Elkanah Howes, Mar. 4, ae.
72.5
In 1824, Mr. David Kelley died;6 Mr. Samuel Bassett,
Jan. 4, ae. 77;7 Mr. Samuel Paddock, Sept. 14, ae. 78;8 Mr.
Simeon Taylor, Sept. 17, ae. 88; Mr. Jeremiah Howes, Nov.
17, ae. 81 ;9 Mr. Lot Gorham, Dec. 28; and Mr. Barnabas
Hall, Dec. 27, ae. 82.10
In 1825, the proposition for a canal from the Flax Pond into
the sea was before the town, and a com. was app. to report on
its feasibility and utility; but nothing more was effected. Mr.
Joshua Sears died this year, ae. 78;11 Mr. Levi Howes,12 13 Mar. 8,
1	Mr. John Nickerson, b. Mar. 3, 1744, was s. of Eleazar and Sarah.
2	Mr. Tobey, b. June 28, 1741, was s. of Thos. and Mary, and bro. of
Knowles and Samuel.
3	Mr. N. Howes, b. Nov. 18, 1745, s. of Nathl. and Thankful.
4	Mr. Baker was s. of David and Thankful, and bro. of Jeremiah who
d. Dec. 10, 1840.
6	Mr. E. Howes, b. Jan. 18, 1751, was s. of Stephen and Thankful.
•Mr. Kelley had sons: Jon. b. 1 779 ; David 1782; Sami. 1785; and
Bangs 1792 who d. 1857.
7	Mr. Bassett, b. Ap. 17, 1747, was s. of Elisha and Ruhamah who had
Lydia 1740; Abigail 1742 ; Elisha 1745 ; Samuel 1747 ; Wm Deborah;
and Lot.
8	Mr. Paddock, b. Ap. 13, 1746, was s. of Sam. and Thankful, and bro.
of Judah who was b. May 9, 1749.
9	Mr. Jer. Howes, b. Dec. 26, 1743, s. of Lot and Thankful, was bro. to
Jon. b. July 27, 1752 who d. May 19, 1834.
10	Mr. Hall, b. Ap. 20, 1742, s. of Jos. and Rebecca, was bro. to Stephen
b. Jan. 9, 1735-6 who d. 1803.
11	Mr. Sears, b. 1752, s. of Edm., m. Sarah Sears, dr. of Prince, and 2d,
Olive Clark, and had sons Joshua, Lot, Ezra, Geo., Reuben, and Calvin.
13Mr. L. Howes, b. Dec. 6, 1749, s. of David, who d. Feb. 3, 1781, was
bro. of Jon. b. Nov. 27, 1729 and d. 1801.710
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
8B. 76; Mr. James Howes, Mar. 23, ae. 83 j1 Mr. John Crow-
ell, Ap. 6, ae. 80;2 Mr. Barnabas Crosby, Aug. 2, ae. 80;3 and
Mr. Judah Paddock, Aug. 17, ae. 76.
In 1826, Mar. 14, Rev. Mr. Haven, on account of de-
clining health tendered his resignation — to take ef-
fect at the close of the parochial year; and received
an honorable dismission, May 12.4 Rev. Daniel Stearns
was engaged as a supply, Oct. 5. An invitation to
him to continue his labors, was extended, Dec. I.5
Mr. Daniel Hall died this year, July 10, a3. 52.
In 1827, March 19, Rev. Mr. Stearns was again en-
gaged to supply 12 mos.
Mr. James Downs was lost at sea this year, in the month of
Jan.; and Mr. Joshua Howes died July 25.
In 1828, Mar. 6, Rev. Mr. Stearns was engaged for
another year; and it was voted to sell the parish
lands. He was invited, Ap. 8, to become permanently
the pastor of the North Parish, at a salary of $380.
This, being the act of the parish without concurrence
of the church, occasioned trouble, resulting in the or-
ganization of another church in the same village, and
the existence of separate places of worship in conti-
guity.6
Mr. David Crowell died this year, ae. 69 ; Mr. Eli Eldridge
in Apr., ae. 72;7 Mr. Josiaii Nickerson, July 9, ae. 78;8 Mr.
1Mr. Jas. Howes, b. July 15, 1742, was s. of Amos and Rebecca.
2	Mr. Crowell, b. Feb. 2, 1745, was s. of Christ’r and Sarah.
3	Mr. Crosby, b. Feb. 2, 1745, was s. of Barnabas and Mehitable.
4	Rev. Mr. Haven received to church privileges 96 persons, and bap.
209. He had one son, Joseph, b. in this town, who settled in Brooklyn.
Mr. H. afterwards settled in Billerica.
6 Rev. Mr. Stearns was from Lincoln, and grad. Brown Univ. 1822.
6	Mr. Stearns was Unitarian.
7	Mr. Eldridge, b. 1756, was s. of Sam. and Sarah, and was bro. to
Daniel b. 176 7 who d. Oct. 25, 1833.
8	Mr. Josiaii Nickerson, b. Mar. 17, 1750-1, was s. of Shubael and
Thankful. By his w. Reliance, he had Shubael 1782 who d. July 29, 1858 ;
Henry 1785 who d. Dec. 4, 1838; and Fred. 1797 who d. May 20, 1862.ANNALS OF DENNIS.
711
Stephen Howes, July 22, ae. 81;1 and Mr. Seth Baker, Dec.
8, a*. 89.
In 1829, Mar. 4, considerable numbers of the North
Parish withdrew, and, as a Third Cong. Society, were
associated with the church now known as “ the Trini-
tarian North Church”
Mr. Prince Sears died this year, ae. 94;2 Mr. Seth Tobey,
Jan. 21, 80. 60;3 Mr. Reuben Baker, Apr. 4, ae. 73;4 and Mr.
Paul Baker, Oct. 14.5 Mr. Joseph Kelley died Jan. 2, 1830 ;
Mr. David Chapman, Ap. 13;° and Mr. Judah Baker 3d, June
10, 1830/
In 1832, the town appointed a com. “to locate Bass River
bridge.” Mr. Edmund Sears died this year, aB. 88;8 also Mr.
Prince Howes, Oct. 16.9 Mr. Jedediaii Burgess died Jan. 13,
1833; Mr. Enoch Hall, Aug. 1; and Mr. Daniel Eldredge,
Oct. 26.
1Mr. S. Howes, b. July 17, 1747, s. of Stephen and Thankful.
2 Mr. Prince Sears was gt. gr. s. of Paul 1st., gr. s. of Sam. b. 1663,
and s. of Jona. b. 1693. He m. Betsey Hall, dr. Joseph, and left a s. Joseph.
“Mr. Setii Tobey. b. Nov. 18,1769, wass. of Seth and Zipporah. The
father d. 1801. We find conclusive evidence that the ancestor of the
Yarmouth and Dennis families of this name was Thomas, b. Feb. 2, 1676,
only son and heir of Thos. of Sandwich, whose father was also Thos.
Thomas, of S., s. of Thos. Sr., m. Martha Knott Nov. 18, 1650, dr. of
Geo. Knott deceased — not his widow, as has been conjectured by some ;
and had a son Thomas b. Dec. 8, 1651, who m. Mehit. Crowell, dr. of John
of Nobscusset. The only issue was Thos. Feb. 2, 1676-7. The father died
1676-7, m. 24, and the mother, a widow, died 1728,	74. See the will of
Jno. Crowell, also a deed of trust, of Thos. of S., 1678, to Jno. Snow, in
favor of his grandson Thos. then “ 2 yrs. old s. of my son Thos. late of S.
deceased.” Thomas, b. 1677, was precinct clerk 1747, and d. 1757, ae. 81.
He had sons Thomas and Seth, and per. other issue. Thomas, b. 1704,
had, by w. Mary, sons Stephen June 28, 1741; Knowles May 22, 1744;
Sam. Ap. 1, 1746, and per. other issue, and d. 1791. Lt. Seth, b. 1716, had
by w. Zipporah, Seth Nov. 18, 1767, and d. Aug. 31, 1801, ae. 85. Prob.
other issue. Seth had, by w. Ruth, Jona. 1794, and d. Jan. 21,1829. The
latter is father of the present Seth of Boston. Stephen, b. 1741, and d.
June 29, 1820, had, by w. Mercy. Polly 1785, who d. 1806.
4 Mr. Reuben Baker, b. 1756, was s. of Reuben and Lydia. The father
d. 1795.
5Mr. Paul Baker had, by w. Elisa., sons: Obed 1784 ; Paul 1789 ; Dan.
1791 ; Amaziah 1793 ; Yaranus 1797 ; and Silvanus 1799.
6	Mr. Chapman, b. Nov. 15, 1739, was s. of Ralph.
7	Mr. Judah Baker 3d m. Mercy Howes, dr. Ezra; and had sons
Howes 1801 ; Judah 1804; Ezra H. 1811; Francis; and William 1817.
8Mr. Edm. Sears, b. 1744, s. of Edm., m. Hannah Taylor of Y., dr.
Jacob, and had sons Jacob, Judah, Paul, and Edmund.
9Mr. Prince Howes, b. 1774, had, by w. Temp., issue: Jer’h 1802;
Martha 1808 ; Sylvia 1813: and Thos. Prince Sept. 28, 1817.712
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1834, May 19, Mr. Jonathan Howes died; Mr. Isaac
Chapman d. Aug. 27; Mr. Aaron Crowell, Nov. 9; and Mr.
Nathaniel Sears, Nov. 26, ae. 76.1 Mr. John Kelley died
Feb. 15, 1835; Mr. Isaiah Howes, May 18, ae. 78;2 and Mr.
Benjamin Hall, Aug. 24. Mr. Oren Howes died Apr. 9, 1836,
aB. 78;3 Mr. Joseph Sears d. May 22; Mr. Elkanah Sears,
June 1, ae. 77 ;4 Mr. Elisha Crowell, July 29, ae. 79;6 and Mr.
Leyi Crowell, Nov. 5.
In 1837, Dec. 30, Rev. Mr. Sanford, of the 2d Cong.
Church, resigned, and was regularly dismissed.6
A partial view of the business of the town at this date, we sub-
join in a note.7 Mr. Obed Howes died this year, June 19;
Mr. David Howes d. Nov. 16; and Mr. Silvanus Nickerson,
Dec. 17.
In 1838, Ap. 16, Rev. Mr. Stearns preached his fare-
well sermon. After this, the plan of building a new
meeting-house was agitated. Rev. Mr. Walcut, Rev.
Mr. White, Rev. Mr. Maynard, and Rev. Mr. Chandler
successively served the ancient parish ; but its prosper-
ity being constantly on the wane, no particular ac-
count of its decay is here required. Mr. Nathan
Crowell died this year, July 9.
In 1839, Feb. 13, Rev. Thacher Thayer was ordained
*Mr. Nath’l Sears, b. 1759, s. of Nath, and Deborah, and gr. s. of Capt.
Jno., had by his w. Rachel, sons Arnold, Nath., Howes, Lot, and Freeman.
2	Mr. Isaiah IIowes, b. 1757, was s. of Wm. and Mary.
3	Mr. Oren Howes, b. 1776, s. of Jer’h and Priscilla, was bro. of Prince.
The father d. 1824.
4	Mr. Elkanah Sears, b. 1759, s. of Edm. and Hannah, m. Mercy
Bray, dr. Wm., and had Elkanah who m. Clarissa Hall and 2d, Sarah
Berry; Thomas who m. Azubah Crowell; and William who m. Ruth Berry.
5Mr. Elisha Crowell, b. 1757, s. of Edward and Betsy. His brother
Thos. d. Sept. 6, 1855, se. 95.
6	Rev. Mr. Sanford resigned on account, it is said, of the state of his
health, — wishing to avoid a seaboard clime. He removed to Amherst.
7	Jn 1837, the statistics of salt-manufacture here give 60,000 bu. salt, and
500 bis. Epsom. Engaged in the cod and mackerel fisheries were 18 vessels
— tonnage 1037. Cod caught, 9141 quintals, worth $25,137; mackerel,
4684 bis., worth $25,762. Salt used in these fisheries, 16,691 bu. Hands
employed, 247. Capital invested, $29,682. The larger proportion of this
t usiness was done on the South side.ANNALS OF DENNIS.
713
over the 2d Cong, or South Church;1 and, Sept. 1,
Rev. Daniel Kendrick Jr. was settled over the 3d.
Cong. Society in connection with the Trinitarian
church, which had hitherto depended on various sup-
plies.2 The organization of this last society was ere-
long defunct, and its meeting-house was occupied by
Methodists, with whom its members generally united
in worship.3
Mr. Henry Sears died this year, ae. 63;4 5 Mr. Job C. Stone
d. July 17, ae. 69; Mr. Isaac Crowell, Nov. 30; and Mr. Na-
than Stone, Dec. 28, se. 72.®
In 1840, Mr. Cyrenius Kelley died in Jan.; Mr. Stephen
Homer d. April 6 ;6 7 and Mr. Jeremiah Baker, Dec. 15.
In 1841, in Oct., the 2d. Cong. Church became va-
cant by the removal of Rev. Mr. Thayer/ who was, in
course of time, succeeded by Rev. Mr. Jennings as a
supply. Rev. Mr. Pettingill came next; succeeded by
Rev. Mr. Thacher. After the removal of the last, the
parish was some time without a stated supply.
The town suffered severely in “ the awful October
1	Rev. Mr. Thayer was from Boston, and grad. Amherst Col. 1831.
2	Rev. Mr. Kendrick was from Pittston, Me., and grad. Brown 1810.
3	The Methodists had before this erected and occupied a small meeting-
house in the village.
4	Mr. Henry Sears, b. 1776, s. of Micajah, m. Nancy Snow, dr. Thos.,
and had a s. Henry.
5	Nathan Stone Esq., b. June 10, 1766,s. of Rev. Nathan, was a prom-
inent citizen and many yrs. town-clerk. He m. Patience Baker, dr.
Moses, who d. July 19, 1821, ae. 49, and 2d, Abigl. Bourne, dr. Rd. of
Barnstable. Issue: Jacob Sept. 11, 1793, drowned Dec. 19, 1815; Moses
Aug. 8,1795. drowned Dec. 19, 1815; Bridget Dec. 24, 1800, whom. Rufus
Howes; Patience, twin to Bridget, whom. Amasa Howes; Nathan Mar. 12,
1803; Twins 1807, d. inf.; Thankful Nov. 22, 1808, who d. 1825; and
Abiel Sept. 5, 1815.
6	Tradition says the first of the name in the Province was a master of a
ship trading from London to Boston, and that the family probably originat-
ed from Bristol, Eng. Mr. Stephen Homer m. a Chapman, had 14 chil-
dren, and Mr. Alden mentions as “ remarkable that in 1792 nine sons were
living, seven of whom were 6 ft. 3 in. in height, or over, — some 6 ft., 6 in.”
The sons were Chapman, Joshua, Joseph, Stephen, Wm., Zenas, David,
Benj. Stephen Jr. had sons Joshua, Stephen, David who went to Bucks-
port, Joseph, Zenas, and Benjamin.
7	Rev. Mr. Thayer settled in Newport, R. I.
YOL. II.	90714
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
gale ” this year; 26 of its most active and promising
men — many of them just entered upon manhood —
being buried in the ocean in one day! Of these, 18
had been school-fellows, and left their kindred living
within one-fourth of a mile of each other.
Mr. Isaiah Crowell died this year, Mar. 24, ae. 61;1 and Mr.
Elisha Kelley, Oct. 26. Mr. David Howes Jr. d. Feb. 15,
1843. Mr. Nehemiah Baker d. Feb. 23, 1844 ; and Mr. Samuel
Shjverick, May 6. Mr. Samuel Chase d. Aug. 29, 1845 ; and
Mr. Obed Baxter, Nov. 5. Mr. Jonathan Bangs d. Jan. 24,
1846; Mr. Barnabas Hall, Sept. 24; Mr. Jacob Sears also d.
this year, ae. 74.2 Mr. Samuel Baker died Aug. 4,1848, ae. 66 ;3
and Mr. Ebenezer Paddock, Oct. 17. Mr. John Wixon died
Feb. 25, 1849; and Mr. Alexander Howes, Nov. 30. Mr. Ju-
dah Sears died in 1850, ae. 75 ;4 Mr. Lot Chase Jr. Mar. 25 ;
Mr. Sylvanus Studley, May 9; Mr. Allen Bangs, July 5;
and Mr. Henry Hall, July 25. Mr. Stephen Sears d. May
24, 1851. Mr. Thomas Matthews d. Ap. 13, 1852; Mr. Jere-
miah Howes Jr., July 8, 1853; Mr. Isaiah Baker, May 9,
1854; Mr. Elihu Kelley, June 7; Mr. Paul Sears, Nov. 23;
and Mr. Sylvanus Baker, in Dec., ae. 69.5
We pass by the year 1851, with reference simply
by note to subjects then engrossing the public mind,
and events transpiring that were neither new nor des-
tined to occupy less of public attention for years to
come.6
1	Mr. Crowell, b. Sept. 23, 1770, was s. of Jona. and Phebe.
2	Mr. Jacob Sears, b. 1772, s. of Edmund, m. Elizabeth Foster, and
had sons Dan’l and Nathan.
3	Mr. S. Baker, b. 1782, was s. of Josiah and Experience who had also
John 1775 who d. Aug. 24, 1859. The father d. 1795.
4Mr. Judah Sears, b. 1775, s. Edmund, had by w. Sarah, sons Eben
and Judah.
6 Mr. Sylvanus Baker, b. June 28, 1785, was s. of David and Jane.
His bro. Freeman, b. June 14, 1777, d. Aug. 22, 1841.
8 A letter addressed to “ a number of friends in Dennis ” by Hon. Daniel
Webster, is pub. in Vol. vi. of his writings, and is there entitled by the editor
“ A letter to his Cape Cod friends.” The general subject of the letter is of
interest to all; but more especially in this place because of its particular
reference to the Cape.
“Washington, July 14, 1851.
“ Gentlemen,
“ I have received your friendly letter of the 4th of this monthANNALS OF DENNIS.
715
In 1855, Mr. Thomas Crowell died Sept. 6, ae. 95, and Mr.
Judah Paddock, Sept. 21. We find little to record in these
and am highly gratified with the patriotic sentiments expressed therein. In-
deed, I should have expected nothing else, because such sentiments are
worthy of those Pilgrim Fathers from whom you are descended, as well as of
the general character of your community. It will give much satisfaction, if
circumstances should allow, to accept of your invitation to pass a day among
you. In the mean time, I shall be most happy to send to each of you such
production of mine as may fully explain my sentiments in respect to the
great questions of the present time. With some of you I have the pleasure
of being personally acquainted, as I have often been in your good town of
Dennis, as well as in all the other towns on the Cape. 1 see also attached
to your letter many names not personally known to me, but belonging to
families with which I have had acquaintance in former times. I have
always found the air of your county delightful in summer, and there are
many sea-views remarkably fine; and. I suppose I ought to confess also that
in these my pleasant visits I did not entirely neglect the streams so highly
estimated by anglers who have thrown the fly in them.
“ Gentlemen, the nature of your population is somewhat peculiar. I have
often been struck by the very great number of sea-captains, as well as other
mariners, which the county of Barnstable and the neighboring Islands fur-
nish. On the Cape, and on the Islands, I have frequently conversed with
persons who seemed as well acquainted with the Galiipagos Islands, the
Sandwich Islands, and some parts of New Holland, as with our counties of
Hampshire and Berkshire. I was once engaged in the trial of a cause in
your district in which a question arose respecting the entrance into the har-
bor of Ovyhyee, between the reefs of coral rock guarding it on either side.
The counsel for the opposite party proposed to call witnesses to give infor-
mation to the jury concerning this entrance. I at once saw a smile which
I thought I understood; and suggested to the judge that very probably
some of the jurors had seen the entrance themselves ; upon which seven out
of the twelve rose and said they were quite familiarly acquainted with it,
having seen it often. The occurrence, I dare say, is remembered by that
most worthy man and eminent judge, now living as I am happy to know,
and 'enjoying in advanced life the affection of friends and the respect of all
who know him: I mean Judge Putman. This incident shows the nature of
the employments pursued by your neighbors and yourselves. With the
more elderly gentlemen of your county I have had the pleasure of frequent
conversations concerning early Revolutionary times, and especially respect-
ing that extraordinary man, James Otis. I have been where he lived, and
examined such of his papers as I could find ; but in the latter part of life
he destroyed most of his correspondence. Mr. Tudor has written a very
good history of his life; and you all know the emphatic eulogy pronounced
on him by the elder Adams, namely, that it was James Otis who set the ball
of Revolution in motion. Warm, eloquent, and highly impassioned in the
cause of Liberty, his brilliant life was terminated by a stroke of lightning.
None were earlier to begin, none more cordially embraced, or more zeal-
ously struggled to maintain the cause of the Revolution than the people of
Cape Cod. All the region about the birth-place of James Otis and the
Thomas’s and the other true-hearted patriots of those times, is to me a sort
of classic ground. Remote from large cities, scattered along an extensive
coast, there was yet, I think, in no part of our country, a more fervent devo-
tion to the patriotic cause than was manifested by your ancestors.
“ Gentlemen, I am sure you ascribe quite too much merit to my efforts in
behalf of the Union and the Constitution. I can only say, I have done716
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
later years, that is of interest, beyond mortuary notices and in*
dications of the growth of the town.
In 1856, May 23, Mr. Benjamin Crowell died; Mr. Elea-
what I could, and all that I could ; and that I shall not slacken my hand. Per-
haps it is natural that you should be attached to free and regular constitu-
tions of government, since all know that the first written constitution in the
country was composed and signed on board the Mayflower while she was rid-
ing at anchor in one of the harbors of the Cape. Your own prosperity, Gent. ;
the success of all your pursuits; the prosperity of your county and of the
whole State of Massachusetts, are at this moment living monuments of the
benefits conferred by the Constitution of the United States, and the admin-
istration of government under it.
“ Your soil has always been a free soil; as such, you and your ancestors
have cultivated it for centuries ; it needs no new christening. But what
the people of Massachusetts wanted, and your county among the rest, be-
fore the adoption of the present Constitution, was free seas, — free seas
on which their industry could be displayed and their national rights protect-
ed. By the blessing of Providence, they have enjoyed this freedom and
this protection for a long course of years, and have flourished and prosper-
ed under them beyond all former example. What if your soil be not of
the richest quality ? What if it be not fertile like Western New York and
the Western States ? I still hardly know a part of the country in which the
people enjoy more substantial comfort. I have traversed the whole, from ‘ the
outside’ in Provincetown to the line of Plymouth without seeing an instance of
ragged poverty or absolute want. Your labors are on the sea. In a more
emphatic sense than can be said of any other people, your home is on the
deep. Nevertheless, the home of your families, the home of your affections,
the home to which you return with so much gladness of heart, is, in the
various towns on the Cape ‘ where all your treasure be.’
u I trust that there is not a man among you who does not feel and see that
the prosperity of his labor is mainly connected with the administration of
the government of the United States: and, therefore, I trust that the politi-
cal air of the Cape will always remain as healthy as its natural atmosphere,
and that it will be as free from faction and fanaticism as it is free from fogs
and vapors. If your hardy and enterprising young men go eastward pursu-
ing their employment to the Bay of Chaleur, the Straits, or the Grand
Bank, do they not receive a positive protection and encouragement from the
laws of the U. States ? If they take a wider range, and, in pursuit of
larger objects, coast along Brazil, double the Cape, and thence steer west, or
south, or north, in the vast Pacific, do they not feel that they are safely
covered by the shelter of their flag, which no power on earth ventures to
treat with disrespect ? My friends of West Dennis, discourage fanciful
ideas, abstract notions, and all inconsiderate attempts to reach ends which,
however desirable in themselves, are not placed within the compass of your
abilities or duties. Hold on, my friends, to the Constitution of your Coun-
try, and the government established under it. Leave evils which exist in
some parts of the country, but which are beyond your control, to the all-
wise direction of an over-ruling Providence. Perform those duties which
are present, plain, and positive. Respect the Laws of your Country; up-
hold our American institutions, as far as you are able. Consult the chart
and the compass; keep an eye on the sun by day and the constellations both
of the South and North by night; and, always feeling and acting as if our
united constitutional American liberty were in some degree committed to
your charge, keep her, so far as depends on you, clear of the breakers.
Whatever latitudes you travel, on whatever distant billows you are tossed, letANNALS OF DENNIS.
717
zar Nickerson, Sept. 23 ; and Mr. Richard Kelley, Nov. 5,
ae. 87.2 Mr. David Gorham d. Jan. 31, 1857; Mr. Sam’l Stud-
ley, Mar. 20; Mr. Christopher Hall, May 15, ae. 48 ;3 Mr. Ro-
land Sears, May 24; and Mr. Oliver Crowell, Oct. 1, ae. 72.
In 1858, Feb. 4, Mr. Elkanah Howes died; Mr. Nehemiah
Kelley d. July 1; Mr. Uriel Howes, Sept. 27 ; Capt. Edward
Crowell, Dec. 7, ae. 69. Mr. John Baker d. Aug. 24, 1859.
In 1860, an unsuccessful attempt was made to divide the town.
Mr. Heman Baker d. Jan. 9; Mr. Joseph Crowell, Mar. 16;
Mr. Benj. Thacher, Ap. 9; and Mr. Lothrop Howes, Ap. 22.
In 1861, Mr. Asa Shiverick died Ap. 12;4 Mr. Peter Hall,
July 20, ae. 62; Mr. Reuben Hall, July 31; and Mr. Samuel
Rogers, Dec. 23.
In 1862, Mar. 21, Mr. Jonathan Nickerson died, ae. 88;5
Mr. Miller Whelden d. Ap. 21; Mr. Frederic Nickerson,
May 20, ae. 66; Mr. Benjamin Farris, May 26, ae. 39; Capt.
Elisha Hall, June 7, ae. 43; Capt. Hiram Baker, June 21,
ae. 61; Capt. Freeman Crowell, Aug. 5, ae. 83; Capt. Obed
Baxter, Sept. 17, ae. 65; Mr. Philip Vincent, Nov. 26, ae. 70;
Mr. Nehemiah Wixon, Nov. 24; Mr. David Sturgis, Dec. 13,
ae. 72 ; and Mr. Isaiah Nickerson, Dec. 27.
your Country retain her hold on your affections. Keep her in your hearts,
and let your carol to her ever be —
* Lash’d to the helm, should seas o’erwhelm,
I’ll think on thee. ’
“ I am, my friends, with sincere regard,
Your fellow citizen and obedient servant,
Daniel Webster.”
1Mr. Eleazar Nickerson, was father of the present Miller W. Nicker-
son Esq., b. Aug. 19, 1802.
2Mr. Rd. Kelley, b. 1769, was s. of Jeremiah and Zilpha.
3	Mr. C. Hall was s. of Thos. and Priscilla.
4	All of the name on the Cape, originated from Rev. Mr. Shiverick,
the first minister at Falmouth. We regret that we have not obtained in
season a more full genealogy of this highly respectable family. See p. 433.
Rev. Samuel Shiverick appears to have had issue, as follows: Samuel,
bap. at Be. 169 7, as per church records; Damaris 1698; Margaret; Thomas;
Bethia; and perhaps others. Thomas represented the town of F. in Gen.
Ct. 1746, and was selectman 16 yrs. By Mary, his wife, he had Nath’1;
Hannah Oct. 18, 1723 ; and per. others. Nathaniel was rep. of F. 1776
several years., and selectman 1775, 23 yrs. Samuel was selectman of F.
1769, several yrs.; and, again, Samuel was selectman 1799, four years.
Nathaniel, of F. who was rep. 1836-7, and d. Ap. 22, 1839, ae. 56, had
issue: Andrew, Geo., Chas., Ann who m. Mitchell of Nantucket, May who
m. Gibbs of Wareham, and Salome who m. Gibbs. As noted ship-builders,
the Shivericks of this town, originating from F., have been distinguished.
6 Mr. Jona. Nickerson, b. 1774, s. of Israel and Betsy, was many years
selectman.718
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
We conclude the Annals of Dennis, a town noted
for its prosperity, with increased sense of the impor-
tance of our maritime towns. Though we may boast
of few richly productive farms here surrounding the
numerous pleasant dwellings, their owners generally
farming the broader and more fertile Atlantic and
other oceans; and though we concede that
“ In ancient times the sacred plough employ’d
The kings and awful fathers of mankind ;
And some, with whom compar’d, your insect tribes
Are but the beings of a summer’s day,”
we find no reason to lament that this is not more
largely an agricultural town. Agriculturalists there
were here at its early settlement; and these, men of
note, — their principal inducements the fertility of
Quivet and Sursuitj’but other pursuits have pre-
vailed, not less favorable to manly development.
REPRESENTATIVES
	Yrs.		Yrs.		Yrs.
1794. Micajah Sears,	3.	1833. Thacher Clark,	2.	1 1842. Alex’r Howes,	2.
1800. Joseph Sears,	1.	“ Joshua Wixon Jr.	, 2.	1844. Neh’h Baker,	1.
1802. Judah Paddock,	9.	1835. Seth Crowell,	4.	! 1845. Joseph K. Baker,	2.
1812. Zenas Howes,	1.	“ Jno. Nickerson,	1.	1847. Wm. Howes,	2.
1813. Sam’l Chase,	3.	1836. Stephen Horner,	1.	1849. Obed Baker 2d,	2.
1814. Jno. Paddock,	1.	“ Jona. Nickerson,	2.	i 1851. Tlios. Hall,	2.
1816. Dan’l Howes,	2.	1837. Dan’l Hed_>e,	1.	1*53. M. S. Underwood,	2.
1821. Orin Howes,	11.	I “ Wm. Hincklev,	1.	1855. Joshua C. Howes,	2.
1829. Zohith Howes,	1.	1838. Seth T. Whelden,	2.	1857. Luther Studlcy,	1.
1832. John Baker,	1.	1840. Sam’l Rogers,	2.		
		SELECTMEN.			
	Yrs.		Yrs.		Yrs.
1794. Jerem’h Howes,	11.	1819. Thacher Clark,	12.	1846. Benj. Thacher,	3.
“ Joseph Sears,	11.	1821. Oren Howes,	14.	1848. Stephen Homer,	1.
“ Jona. Bangs,	14.	1834. Eleazar Nickerson,	, 1.	1849. Obed Baker 2d,	9.
1805. Enoch Hall,	12.	1835. Abijah Howes,	3..	“ Joshua Wixon Jr.,	, 5.
“ Daniel Howes,	10.	1836. Obed Baxter,	2.	1851. David Howes,	1.
1806. Dan’l Eldridge,	1.	“ Seth Crowell,	4.	1852. Atherton H. Baker	, 3.
1808. Sam’l Chase,	8.	1838. Neh’h Crowell,	8.	1855. Jos. K. Baker,	3.
1809. Nathan Crowell,	7.	“ Alexander Howes,	3.	“ James S. Howes,	5.
1816. Perez Howes,	2.	1839. Edm. Sears,	5.	1858. Shub. B. Howes,	3.
“ Lothrop Howes,	2.	1841. Uriah Howes,	3.	1860. Joshua C. Howes,	4.
“ Jona. Nickerson,	19.	1*44. Charles Howes,	1.	1861. Elijah Baxter,	3.
1818. Prince Howes,	3.	1845. Tlios. Hall,	10.	“ Alvah Small,	3.
“ David Crowell,	1.				
TOWN TREASURERS AND				CLERKS.	
	Yrs.		Yrs.		Yrs.
1794. Elisha Bassett,	4.	1836. Isaac Howes,	1.	1855. Mar. S. Underwood	, 3.
1798. Nathan Stone Jr.,	33.	1837. Alvah Nickerson,	6.	1858. Isa’h Nickerson Jr.	., 6.
1831. Nehemiah Baker,	5.	1843. Watson Baker,	12.		THE
ANNALS OF THE TOWN
O F
ORLEANS.
“ A TENACIOUS ADHERENCE TO THE BIGHTS AND LIBERTIES TRANSMITTED FROM A WISE
AND VIRTUOUS ANCESTRY ; PUBLIC SPIRIT ; AND A LOVE OF ONE’S COUNTRY, ABE THE SUP^
PORTS AND ORNAMENTS OF GOVERNMENT.” — Addison.
(719)Jfnsmptiott
TO MR. BARNABAS DAVIS,
J^er chant, of Ijoston.
Excellence of character, when proverbial, commands respect; and when illus-
trated by courteous acts, uniform cordiality, and cheering good-will, touches the
heart. To him, therefore, whom we are proud to recognize as a son of Cape Cod,
these Annals of one of its towns, we take the liberty to
INSCRIBE,
With assurances of the high regards of
THE AUTHOR.
(720)ANNALS OF ORLEANS.
Orleans was incorporated as an independent town-
ship, Mar. 3, 1797; until which time it was a constit-
uent part of Eastham, and long known as the South
Precinct. The Indian names were Namsleaket, Tonset,
Pocket, Name quoit, and Potanumaquut.
Situation, Boundaries, etc. — Orleans is bounded by the
Atlantic Ocean on the E.; by Chatham and Pleasant Bay on the
S.; by Harwich, Brewster, and Barnstable Bay on the W.; and
by Eastham on the N. In length, from Chatham to Eastham,
the township is about 5 m.; and in breadth, from ocean to bay,
three or four m. It is S. E. from Boston about 90 m. by land,
and E. N. E. from Barnstable court-house, about 24 m.
Natural Divisions, Soil, etc. — The face of the township
is somewhat uneven, but there are no high hills. The county
road, which runs through a corner of the township, is indicative
of a sandy and barren soil; and the road which extends from
Chatham and East Harwich down the Cape, is of the same char-
acter. But, as we have before remarked, the impressions received
by the traveller in passing over thoroughfares, are not to be re-
garded by him in all cases as a sure indice of the country,1 any
1 Kendal’s travels, 1807, tell of the peninsula which, after stretching E.
from Buzzard’s Bay, here turns toward the N., “ The landscape is far from
unpleasing, being diversified with hills, woods, small bodies of water, and
frequent inlets of the sea. Here begin extensive plains, — in part covered
with wood, and in part employed as pastures. Black-pine and oak prevail,
generally intermingled, but often in separate tracts. In the lower towns,
where oak predominates, there is underbrush; but where pine only is found,
the ground beneath is nearly bare, sustaining only dwarfish plants — such
as the partridge-berry — sometimes called Indian tea-plant, and other diminu-
VOL. II.	91	(721)722
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
more than is the aspect of the Cape to one sailing around it.
The township is quite irregular in form, the lines which separate
it from the three adjoining towns being quite irregular ; and the
shores indented by coves or creeks. The necks of land embrace
the most fertile and productive parts of the town, and these are
out of the usually direct route of the casual observer.
Town Cove, lying on the central north bound, has been de-
scribed in the view we have taken of Eastham. On the S. E. side
of it, is the neck called Tonset. A creek, connecting with Pleas-
ant Bay in the southerly part of the town, in which bay are sev-
eral islands, has at its head Zeb’s Cove. The creek, or “ river,”
as it is sometimes called, is, at its head, narrow ; but at its mouth
is ^ m. wide, and vessels of moderate draught may come up
nearly two miles. The land east of this creek is Barley Neck.
On both these necks the land is productive, the latter having
precedence. On the east side of Barley Neck are coves commu-
nicating with Pleasant Bay, and which separate the Neck from
Nauset Beach. The land situated between Barley Neck and
Tonset Neck, and which terminates in Wood’s Neck, has also a
fair soil, and is called Pochet. Nearer the ocean, northeast of
Pochet, is Weeset Neck,— separated from Tonset by a cove.
These several necks make unitedly a peninsula to which as a
whole the name of Pochet is usually applied. A narrow beach,
being a barrier to the waters that w^ash the N. E. shore of the
township, joins the main land in Eastham at Nauset Harbor. A
continuous beach, the ridge of which is in some parts elevated 40
ft., and is chiefly covered with beach-grass, — sometimes called
Potanumaquut Beach, sometimes Chatham Beach, but laid down
in the maps as Nauset Beach, terminating opposite Chatham, —
extends south the wdiole remaining eastern part of the town.
This beach, on the inner side, is skirted for the most part with
tive creepers; but this applies chiedy to Eastham which has been able to
export 1500 bu. of maize in a season. Occasional monuments of ship-
wrecks appear on the back side of the peninsula.”
A remarkable illustration of the changes to which the Cape coast is sub-
ject has recently, 1863, been furnished by the exhumation of a wreck sup-
posed to be that of the London ship stranded in 1626, See Vol. I. 111-113.
Relics of this vessel, upon its reappearance, were quickly seized and trans-
ported to various parts of the country; but the wreck soon disappeared
again, perhaps to re-appear to some future generations. It is remarkable
that the original scene of the disaster was in Potanumaquut Harbor, and
that, from being inside the beach which forms that harbor, the wreck ap-
peared after the lapse of 237 years outside that beach. There can scarcely
be any doubt of the identity of the wreck.ANNALS OF ORLEANS.
723
salt-marsh. The haven within is variegated with islands that
give interest to the scenery and entitle it to its name, — Pleasant
Bay. One of the largest of these is Pochet Island, east of Bar-
ley Creek, and very fertile; on the N. E. of which is a body of
marsh. Southwest of the latter island, is Sampson’s Island con-
taining about 30 acres of good land with a larger body of marsh
on the E. South of the latter island is Hog Island ; and south-
erly of this is Sepson’s Island.1
Leaving the peninsula of Pochet, and moving around Orleans
Creek, or river as sometimes called, is Naumquoit Neck,2 having
Iliggin’s River on the N. and Naum quoit Creek on the S. The
south part of the township is Potanumaquut, which was inhabit-
ed by the Nauset tribe long after the settlement of Eastham by
English people. The place of the Indian burying-ground is still
marked, and within a century their meeting-house here was still
standing. The land here is light, and mostly cleared, with little
wood or brush remaining.
In the northwest part of the town, bordering on Barnstable
Bay, is Namskaket Creek,—forming in part the dividing-line
between this town and Brewster. This creek is f m. in length,
narrow, used as a haven ; and the land near it is called Skaket.
Little Skaket creek lies N. of Namskaket.3 North of Skaket is
Rock Harbor Creek, also affording a convenient haven. On all
these creeks are salt marshes.
In the township are not less than 16 fresh-water ponds: but
no rivers or brooks that are not affected by tides. Light as the
soil is, the parts that are cultivated yield, compensatingly, corn,
rye, and vegetables, and some hundred tons of English hay.4
1	Nearly opposite to Sepson’s Island, it has been supposed that the tides
of the Massachusetts and Narraganset Bays meet; the flow in the ocean
above this point being to the north, and below to the south.
2	Often written Nemacoik ; sometimes Namequoit, or Naumkoyick.
3	Skaket is doubtless a contraction of Namskaket, for the latter is often
called Great Skaket to distinguish it from Little Skaket.
4	Within the last hundred years, with much less attention to recuperating
the soil than at present, 4 or 500 bu. of Indian corn were sent from here to
the Boston market annually, and one-third the tillage land was in grain.
The grain produced here was noted for being peculiarly solid and heavy.
Vegetables also, more than sufficient for home comsumption, were produced.
Butter was made in quantities quite sufficient for home use : and cattle were
fattened for home-market, and even for the supply of neighboring towns.
Fish — especially the king-crab or horse-foot — were much used for manur-
ing the land ; but the conclusion to which farmers arrived was that, although,
for the time being the crop was aided, the land was gradually impoverish-
ed. Seaweed, then, became the general improver. There is now much724
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Little wood remains in the township, compared with the growth
of former years.1
The shores and coves are far more productive than the soil.
The clam, the small kind, is alone a source of large revenue, the
great value of which has been estimated by us elsewhere. Be-
sides this shell-fish, the round clam or “ quohoag” are found, as
also the large sea-clam.2 Bass, tautog, and other fish may be ob-
tained here in abundance by those who desire them. Eels, ob-
tained in these waters in immense quantities, are, in winter, sent
to distant markets, and always command good prices. Sea-fowl,
once superabundant, are still found here, but in diminished num-
bers.
The larger numbers of the male inhabitants still pursue their
avocations upon the seas.3
When the census of 1855 was taken, the number of inhabitants
was 1754.4
The principal villages are known respectively by the name of
Orleans, South Orleans, and Rock Harbor ; the former oc-
good husbandry here. Although in 1750, not more than 10 tons of English
hay was cut, in 1800 the quantity had increased to 200 tons, whilst the
quantity of provender cut from the salt-meadows was 800 tons; at present,
farming exhibits better statistics.
1	Peat long since came into extensive use, and the supply was abundant.
It is said that its use as fuel was not understood in this country until Rev.
Mr. Osborn was settled here; he, a native of Ireland, recommending it
as aliment for fires.
2	Indians formerly used the shell of this fish as a substitute for hoes, in
cultivating corn. Being unacquainted with salt, they also used the varieties
of the clam in seasoning their food.
3	Travellers have remarked that even the vanes upon barns here, as in
some other Cape towns, — “a fish, or prettily-carved ship, show the nautical
predilection of the tenants of many a neatly-painted dwelling.”
4	In 1800, the number of inhabitants was 1095, these constituting 174
families, occupying 142 dwellings, 5 only of which were more than one story
in height. These houses were represented by travellers as always neat and
convenient. One says, “ From nearly all these dwellings, some members
are absent upon the sea, tho’ peradventure here and there may be retired
sea-captains who, after a successful career of enterprise, have returned to
pass the balance of their days in more uninterrupted domestic enjoyment.”
The place has not deteriorated since, but much improved ; for another, in
1850, remarked of this and other towns, lower on the Cape, “ Bold and
dreary as is the landscape, nothing can exceed the neatness of the dwellings,
and the comfortable look of their inhabitants.” At the former period of
which we speak, 1800, there were three school-houses and one meeting-
house. In 1830, there were about 300 families, 200 dwellings, an academy,
and an increased number of schools. A fact somewhat remarkable has been
stated in connection with statistics of this town, that “from 1836 to 1844,
the sum appropriated annually for common schools was $900 ; the number
of schools 9 ; pupils 1069, of whom G08 were between 4 and 16 years ages.”ANNALS OF ORLEANS.
725
cupying a central position ; the latter being in the northwest ex-
tremity of the township. In the former are Congregationalism
Baptist, Methodist, and Universalist places for public worship.
Progress of the Town, etc. — By the act of incorpo-
ration, Mar. 3, 1797, Isaac Sparrow Esq. was authorized
to issue his warrant to some principal inhabitant of the
town, requiring him to call the first meeting, for the
choice of officers and the transaction of business.1 Mr.
Sparrow directed the warrant to Mr. Hezekiah Higgins ;
and the freeholders and others qualified to vote in town
affairs assembled, Mar. 16. Mr. Higgins 2 was chosen
moderator; and the people assembled proceeded to
choose the usual town officers. The attention of the
town, after its organization, was immediately directed,
1	That portion of the original township now constituting the new town, is
thus described : “ All the S. part of the town of Easthamon the southerly side
of the following lines, namely : Beginning at the mouth of the Rock-Harbor
River; from thence southeasterly by the road that leads by Nathan Smith's
dwelling-house until it comes to the parsonage land; thence northerly on
the westerly boundary of said parsonage land until it comes to Joshua and
Isaac Smith’s land; thence running easterly in the range between said
Joshua and Isaac and Josiah and Elisha Smith’s land until it comes to Boat-
Meadow ; thence a due east course into the middle of Boat-Meadow River;
thence running up the middle of said river to its head; thence running
southerly through the centre of the meadow and swamp and along Jere-
miah’s-Gutter so called, into the middle of Town Cove; thence running
down the centre of the cove to Stone Island ; thence running an east south-
east course into the Atlantic.” By the dividing enactment, each town was
to bear its due proportion of all prior taxes and expenses, and to share
equitably in the public property held by the original town before the divi-
sion ; all fishery-privileges were to be mutually enjoyed as formerly; and
the parsonage lands pertaining to the South Parish were to remain to
Orleans.
2	Our genealogical notices of families in the parent town and other locali-
ties leave us but little to say in these present annals. Mr. Hezekiah Hig-
gins m. Anne Sears of C., Nov. 10, 1774. Isaac, b. 1672, s. of Benj. had,
by w. Lvdia, issue: Mercy Mar. 20, 1697; Sarah 1699; Benj. Ap. 19,
1701 ; Elkanah Nov. 10,1703 ; Rebecca 1 705 ; Isaac July 3, 1708 ; Hannah
1712; and Lydia 1718. Jonathan b. 1637 at Plymouth, s. of Richard,
m. Elisa. Rogers, dr. Joseph, Jan. 9, 1660-1. Issue: Beriah Sept. 27, 1661 ;
Jona. 1664, d. inf; Jona. Feb. 14, 1666; Joseph Feb. 14, 1667; Elisa.
1680; Mary 1683; Rebecca 1686; James July 22. 1688; Sarah Oct. 18,
1690. Beriaii, of Provincetown had, by w. Desire, issue : Deborah Oct.
26, 1725; Beriah Ap. 1, 1727 ; and Phebe 1736. Paul, of H., b. 1 708, s.
of Benj., had, by w. Rebecca, Abigail 1738; S im’l Feb. 28,1740 : Thankful
1743; Reliance 1745; Eunice 1747 ; Paul Sept. 5, 1751; and Rebecca
1754. Samuel 3d. m. Elisa. Bassett of C. Mar. 1, 1759.726
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
as always upon the Cape, to suitable provision for the
education of its youth, and to the suitable support of
institutions of religion ; nor was it unmindful of the
importance of securing protection for the fisheries. The
town ordered that three school-houses be built — one
in each district; an addition was made to the minister’s
salary; the Gen. Court was requested to enact regula-
tions respecting the taking of eels in Orleans — pro-
hibiting trespasses on this now important department
of home revenue ; a com. was app. to prosecute inter-
lopers from other towns who were disposed to abstract
too freely from the clam-banks; and the bounds between
this town and Chatham were established.1
In 1798, the usual appropriations were made for
schools, and the minister and selectmen were appointed
a com. to examine teachers in regard to qualifications
and to direct and superintend their labors.
In 1799, four families, belonging to Eastham, were,
with their estates, annexed to this town.
In 1800, the decease of George Washington was re-
garded by the inhabitants in an appropriate manner.
An oration was pronounced by Rev. Mr. Bascom, and
requested for publication. The meeting-house was
enlarged, repaired, and painted ; the old porch in front
removed, and its place supplied by another with gallery
and stairs; the doors at the two ends were closed, and
four additional pews erected on the room thus gained,
which paid for all improvements made — the cost being
$482.
In 1802, the bounds between this town and Brewster were
adjusted.
1 “ Beginning at the southeasterly corner of the town of Harwich, in
Pleasant Bay; from thence running easterly to the northward of Strong
Island to a stake set in the ground on Pochet Beach, which stake bears S.
75° E. from a black rock situated in the edge of the waters of said bay ; and
from said stake a due east course into the sea.”ANNALS OF ORLEANS.
727
In 1803, the Gen. Court, having granted to the county a half-
township of land in the District of Maine, to endow a public
Academy to be located in the most advantageous position, Timothy
Bascom Esq. was appointed to meet committees from other towns
and also the legislative com., July 26, to determine in what town
the institution should be established. Sandwich was the locality
designated.
In 1807, the erection of a house, for keeping the town’s military
stores, was ordered.
The Rev. Jonathan Bascom died this year, Mar. 8, ae.
67, after a ministry of 35 yrs., greatly lamented; and
measures were taken to obtain the services of another
pastor.1
In 1808, Rev. Daniel Johnson was unanimously call-
ed to the vacant charge, with a salary of $600; and
was ord. Mar. II.2
In 1809, the town, for the first time, made distinct assessments
for the support of the ministry, and for other town expenses.
In 1810, the bounds between this town and Eastham, also
between this town and Chatham, were ordered to be better defin-
ed. New school-houses were erected ; additional pews were made
in the meeting-house, and a bass-viol was purchased for the use
of the choir, — the first instrument of music introduced here in
public worship.3
1 Rev. Mr. Bascom, b. 1740 at Lebanon, Ct., grad. Tale Col. 1764, and
was settled here 1772. During his pastorate, he bap. 996 persons; received
to church membership 245; and united in marriage 317 couples. He m.
2d, Betsy Freeman, dr. Gideon, of O, s. of Jno., Oct. 1794. He is represented
as an able minister, devoted to his work with pious heart, of a happy disposi-
tion, somewhat facetious, always kind. A contemporary has summed up
his traits and ministry thus: ‘‘ Richly endowed with ministerial graces,
fervent in prayer, in doctrine evangelical, in warning faithful, in administer-
ing consolation affectionate, instant in season, and in success abundant.”
3 Rev. Mr. Johnson was from W. Bridgewater, and grad. Brown Univ.
18°4.
8 The advantage of instrumental music is now generally conceded; though
the Puritans of New England brought over with them strong prejudices to
its use. The difficulties originating in first attempts to introduce it into some
congregations were great. Objections were made, and conscientious scruples
urged. Calvin had showed his hostility to it, and for more than a century
after the Reformation, not a musical instrument was tolerated within the
walls of the churches of Geneva. Luther pursued a different course,
as did also Zuingle.	In England, the appropriate music of the
church was also retained in its most solemn and effective form. But728
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1812, the inhabitants were greatly inconvenienced
by being turned aside from their accustomed employ-
ments. This being so largely a maritime town, and
extensively engaged in the fisheries, the war with Great
Britain occasioned much distress; but the people were
none the less patriotic. They instantly and earnestly
engaged in their country’s defence, both upon the sea
and land. The militia were equipped, exercised, and
held in readiness to obey all calls whether for the de-
fence of their own town, or other localities. Eminently
and zealously supporters of the national government
in its measures, notwithstanding the enemy’s ships
made their rendezvous in Provincetown Harbor and by
their tenders or barges were constantly cruising the bay.
A committee of safety was appointed, and sentinels
were posted on the shores. When danger became im-
minent, the town being threatened with destruction,
the exempts proposed to unite in organizing, for more
complete defence, an artillery company ; but, on send-
ing an agent to Boston to procure from the State gov-
ernment the requisite munitions, the project was
frowned upon by the powers that were, and the ex-
posed situation of this town and the patriotic devotion
of the people were treated with little regard. During
the progress of the war, money was demanded by the
enemy with the offer of guarantee of safety and pro-
tection for both person and property on condition of
Cromwell coming into power strange things were enacted. Organs in
churches and chapels were ordered removed; and it has been truly "remark-
ed, “ The fury of the populace was not less conspicuous in the demolition
of these instruments than in the impious zeal with which they disfigured
whatever else had been used in the service of God.” It is amusing now
to mark the beginnings and progress of the change which at last began to
come over our Puritan ancestry. The bass-viol was first assayed, with much
trouble; then came the flute, the clarionet, the violin, the bassoon, the
hautboy; and, now finally, comes a return to the organ — the instrument,
above all others, most valuable and appropriate. Similar changes are of
daily occurrence in other methods of conducting public worship.ANNALS OF ORLEANS.
729
compliance; and the demand and proffer were prompt-
ly and indignantly rejected. Attempts were made by
the enemy to land; and as often were they driven back.
When the year 1815 brought again the blessings of
peace, this town shafed in the general joy, and com-
menced anew a career of prosperity.
In 1816, the same desolating sickness prevailed here
which we have mentioned as taking off many of the
inhabitants of Eastham. Physicians from neighboring
towns were in requisition, and rendered important ser-
vice. The cause of the epidemic remains unsolved.
In 1818, the town being largely engaged in the
manufacture of salt, a large and highly efficient com.
was chosen to represent to Congress the importance of
continuing the duty on importations of the article.
Another com. was chosen to petition the Gen. Court,
in conjunction with inhabitants of Harwich and
Brewster, for leave to sell all the remaining Indian
lands, — these lying partly in Orleans. These lands,
which had belonged to the Potanumaquut tribe, were
sold for $300. This town also united with Chatham
to construct a channel through the beach, below Strong
Island, for the benefit of the salt-meadows ; the chan-
nel was cut, but the closing of it by sands made the
enterprise ineffectual.
In 1819, efforts were made by ministers of the de-
nomination calling themselves Reformed Methodists to
establish here a church of their order; which attempt
culminated the next year in organization, Rev. Mr.
Britt being the pastor. As we have no call to follow
the vicissitudes of this association in future years, we
may here remark that at the close of one short decade
their place of worship was closed and the order be-
came defunct.
VOL. II.
92730
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1823, Oct. 22, Mr. Edmund Freeman died, ae. 43.1
In 1824, the disposition of many citizens was to en-
courage the establishment of a Universalist Society
here. Some one has charitably said, “ The one aim of
the many sects which profess the Christian name, is
the same; ” and has likened them to the rainbow of
which the various but blended tints form one celestial
arch of beauty. Another has likened them to a well-
ordered band of music, which though playing different
parts unite in one harmonious whole. If we take this
view, it must be confessed that old puritanic Cape Cod
has, during the last half-century, attained to great
perfection in these respects.
In 1826, measures were adopted to suppress the sale
of intoxicating liquors. The town ordered that no
person be approbated by the selectmen, for license.
A Baptist Church, consisting of eight persons was or-
ganized this year, the original members receiving for
the purpose dismission from the Baptist Church in
Brewster, the Rev. Otis Wing engaging to officiate in
this town one-third part of his time.
In 1828, a Baptist meeting-house was erected ; and
Rev. Daniel Johnson, after a pastorate of 20 yrs. retired
from the change of the Congregational Church.2
In 1829, the Congregational Society erected a new
meeting-house which was dedicated July 15. Rev.
John Turner was their minister, who continued only
about one year. The Baptist Society had the services
of Rev. Winthrop Morse whose continuance was also
brief.
In 1831, the town caused a poor-house to be built,
1	Capt. Freeman, b. 1780. was s. of Abner, gr. s. of Jona., and gt. gr. s.
of Edmund, and m. Betbia Rogers 1808.
2	Rev. Mr. Johnson settled in Western New York.ANNALS OF ORLEANS.
731
there being 22 persons depending on the town’s aid,
sustained now on an average of 62 cents per week.
In 1832, Rev. Enoch E. Chase became pastor of the
Baptist Church.
In 1833, a Universalist Society was organized by
persons seceding from the Congregational, and a meet-
ing-house for their use was erected at a cost of $1750.
The town was this year divided into 9 school districts.
The town’s portion of the surplus revenue was $3,000.
A company was formed for the improvement of Rock
Harbor, and $2,000 was expended in building a dam
across the creek and in deepening the channel. Mr.
Josiah Freeman died Feb. 9, se. 72; also, this year,
Mr. Abner Freeman.
In 1834, Rev. Ezekiel Yose became the minister of
the Universalist Society, which this year received in-
corporation.
In 1835, after having been partially supplied by
Rev. Mr. Scovel and others for several years, the Cong.
Society invited Rev. Stillman Pratt to be their minister,
and he was ord. Ap. 22.1 A parsonage was built, and
the Hersey fund, $540, was expended in the work.
In 1836, a Methodist Episcopal Church was organized
here, enjoying henceforward a succession of ministra-
tions. For reasons before mentioned, regarding its
polity, it will be inconvenient to note all the frequent-
ly recurring changes of ministers by this respectable
denomination; but the earliest are understood to have
been Rev. Messrs. T. G. Brown, P. Crandall, J. Litch,
H. Perry, J. Bicknell, T. G. Blake, E. B. Hinckley,
and others. Rev. Mr. Chase, minister of the Baptist
Church, retired this year, and was succeeded by Rev.
Silas Ripley.
^ev. Mr. Pratt grad. Amherst Col. 1831.732
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1837, a new meeting-house was erected for the
use of the Methodists. Rev. Mr. Ripley, minister of
the Baptists was succeeded by Rev. Jesse Pease.
In 1838, Rev. Mr. Pease retired from the charge of
the Baptist Church, and was succeeded by Rev. Davis
Lothrop.
In 1839, Rev. Stillman Pratt ceased his ministry in
the Cong. Church, Ap. 23.1
In 1840, Rev. Hazael Lucas became minister of the
Cong. Church. Rev. Mr. Vose relinquished his Charge
of the Universalist Society, and was succeeded by Rev.
James G. Burt.
In 1841, Rev. Mr. Lucas was succeeded in the ministry
of the Cong. Church, by Rev. Jacob White.2 3 * * * *
In 1843, Rev. Mr. Burt resigned his charge of the
Universalist Society, and Rev. Stillman Barden was
settled. Capt. John Kenrick died May 24,1849, se. 68.8
1Mr. Pratt was b. Ap. 24, 1804, in Reading, and d. Sept 1, 1862 in
Middleboro.
2	Rev. Mr. White grad. Brown University 1841.
3	A family tradition is that Mr. Edward Kendrick, or Kenrick (some
portion of his descendants write their names with, and others without the J)
settled early at or near Potanumaquut, a trader; and that he had sons
Thomas who settled in II., Solomon, and Jonathan. Solomon had sons
John and Sol., the former commanding a privateer during the Rev. War, and
afterwards the ship Columbia, a private armed vessel having for a tender
the sloop Lady Washington, and u was the first American commander who
circumnavigated the Globe.” It is claimed for him that u lie discovered the
Columbia River and named it for his ship ; sailed intoNootka Sound, rigged
his tender into a brig, gave the ship in charge of his 1st It., Robt. Gray,
ordered him to enter the Columbia, and himself in his little brig returned
via. the E. Indies and the Cape of Good Hope.” His father, Sol., with his
family, it is said, removed to N. Scotia. Jonathan, the youngest son of
Edw., was a physician, and had sons Samuel, Warren Anson who removed
to N. S., and Jona. Samuel was a physician, and had 3 sons, the eldest
of whom was Jonathan the father of the present Capt. Allred Kenrick of
this town. Jonathan, s. of Doet. Jona,, in. Hannah Cole, and had sons
Arvin, John, Calvin who d. y., Carlton who d. y., and Alex, who d. leav-
ing a dr., and drs. Lucy who m. Nathan Kendrk k of II., and Hannah who
d. y. Arvin m. Tabitha Sparrow, dr. Den. R.I., and had Arvin, Phebe,
Caleb, Julia, Alex, now of this town, and Tabitha. John who d. 18^3, s.
of Jona., m. Rebecca Sparrow, dr. Dea. Rd., D*c. 4, 1804. and had Soplua
Oat. 29, 1805 who m. Elisha Cobb of E. Nov. 13 1828: John Aug. 9,1819
who m. Thankful Crosby July 30, 1843, the present Jno. I ' q. of this town;
and Rebecca S. July 15, 1822 who m. Mitchel I\ Anderson of BoAon.ANNALS OF ORLEANS.
733
la 1862, May 14, Mr. Josiah Snow Sr. died, ae. 88 ;1
Mr. Seth Sparrow, June 8, ae. 60;2 Dea. Judah Rogers,
Oct. 23, ae. 92;3 and Capt. Joshua Doane,4 Dec. 27, ae.
Thus much for the account obtained by the courtesy of one of the family.
Our own notes from pub. records state that Edward, of II., m. Deborah
Tucker Ap. 30, 1713, and had Susanna Jan. 21, 1713 whom. Jos. Wing
Feb. 17, 1 736-7; and Jon. Nov. 14, 1715. Solomon, of C., had, bv w.
Elisa., Elisa. Aug. 24, 1736. Jonathan, of II., m. Mary Basset of C.
Ap. 28, 1765. Thomas, of II., m. Phebe Smith of C. Nov. 6, 1766.
Stephen, of C., m. Sarah Nickerson Jan. 18, 17 76.
*We have elsewhere mentioned this family name to some extent; but
may add, William Snow, of Bridgewater, had Wm. who m. Naomi
Whitman 1686 ; James who d. in the Canada expd. 1690; Joseph; Benj.
who m. Elisa. Alden 1693 ; also drs. Mary, Lydia, Hannah, and Rebecca.
It is not known what connection there was with Nicholas and Anthony.
Joseph Jr., whod. Jan. 21,1705-6, m. Sarah Smith Dec. 15,1690. Samuel
m. Sarah Atkins of C., Jan. 29, 1761.
2	John Sparrow, s. of Jona., b. 1656, had, by w. Apphia, Rebecca Dec.
23, 1684; John Aug. 24, 1687 ; Elisa. Jan. 9, 1689 ; and Stephen Sept. 6,
1694. Isaac m. Mary Hopkins, dr. of Ebenr. She was b. Mar. 20, 1732-3.
3	John Rogers, of Be., m. Elisa. Williams June 24, 1696. James, of
E., s. of Lt. Jas., m. Susanna Trcasy Feb. 17, 1697-8, and d. Sept. 8, 1751.
Issue : Mary 1698 ; Isaac Dec. 8,1701 ; Susanna 1704; James May 2,1706 ;
Abigail 1708; and Thos. Oct. 21, 1710. Moses, of II., m. Elisa. Smith of
C. Nov. 10, 1748. John Jr., b. 1672, s. of John, andgr. s. of Joseph, m.
Priscilla Hamblen 1696, and d. Jan. 10, 1738-9. Issue: Eben. Feb. 17,
1697-8; Thankful 1699; John Aug. 18, 1701; Jona. Mar. 20, 1703 who
m. Elisa. Cook 1727; Benj. Nov. 19, 1704; Sarah 1706, by w. Mary;
Joseph Sept. 20, 1 708 ; and Judah. Judah, b. 1677, s. of Jno., had,by w.
Patience, issue: Judah Dec. 29, 1704; and drs. Mary and Patience.
Eleazar, b. 1685, s. of Jno., had, by w. Martha, Henry Aug. 19, 1713 ;
Elisa. 1715; Mercy 1718; Moses Mar. 13,1720-1 ; Martha 1723; Eleazar
Nov. 15,1726 ; Ensign July 9, 1 729 ; and Daniel Mar. 16,1732. Nathan-
iel, b. 1693, s. of Jno., m. Eliza Crosby 1716. Ebenezer of H., b. 1698,
s. of John Jr., had, by w. Hannah, Zaeeheus Dec. 30,1720 ; Josh. Oct. 30,
1722 ; EbenT. Sept. 20, 1724; Thankful July 16, 1726, who m. Jona.
Freeman 1752 ; Rich. May 17, 1 728 ; Sam. Ap. 9. 1730; Caleb Ap. 19,
1732 ; Lemuel July 10, 1734; Benj. Aug. 1, 1736; Hannah 1739; and
Patience 1741. Joseph, of II.. m. Fear Bassett of Be., 1738. Judah, of
E., m. Rebecca Lothrop of C., Oct. 3, 1778. Daniel, of II., m. Deborah
Ryder of C. Ap. 27, 1758. Crisp, of II., m. Bethia Smith of C. Oct. 23,
1756.
4	The Do axe’s have been numerous; we will not undertake to designate
the order of descent from Dea. John, b. 1590, d. 1686. Daniel, in E.,
1658, in. Hepz. Cole and had Constant Mar. 7, 1669-70. Ephraim, of E.,
m. Mary Knowles Feb. 5, 1667-8, and had Patience 1669, d. inf. ; Apphia
1670; ilezekiah 1672; Thos. Sept. 4, 1674; Eben. 1676 ; Nell. 1680, d. y.;
Pat. 1682; and Ruhamah 1685. Samuel, probably s. of Jno. jr. whod.
1708, m. Martha Hamblen of Be. Dec. 30, 1696, and d. Aug. 19, 1 756; had
Sam. 1697; Sarah 1699; Dinah 1700; Dorcas 1703; Sol. 1705; and
Simeon 1708. John Jr. m. Mehit. Scudder June 30. 1686, and had a s.
John; perhaps the same who by w. Hannah had Sol. May 12,1698. IIeze-
kiah, of E., per. b. 1672 s. of Eph., had, by w. Hannah, Neh. 1692 ; Mary
1694 ; and Eph. 1696 in Prov. Ephraim, of Prov., m. Mary Atkins of T.734
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
78. Mr. Heman Doane died in 1863.1 We have noth-
ing more of importance to record.
Our Annals of Orleans are brief; for its career as a
1717, and had Eph. 1717; Neh. 1720; Betsy 1724; Joshua 1727 ; Mary
1729; and Elisha 1732. Thomas, prob. s. of Eph., b. 1674, m. Pat. Mul-
ford Feb. 28, 1700, and d. May 3, 1756. Issue: Thos. 1702, who, as per
C. rec., had, by w. Sarah, Neh. 1730, who was soldier in the Rev. War — see
State resolve June 24,1779; Elisa. 1704; Reuben 1706 ; Abigl. 1708; and
Benj. 1710. Solomon, per. s. of Sam., m. Alice Higgins 1727, and had
Sol. 1730 ; Noah 1732; Sarah 1733 ; Dorcas 1735 ; Neh. 1737 ; Joseph 1739
Isaac 1741 ; Betty 1742; and Josh. 1744. SrMEox, per. s. of Sam.,b. 1708, m.
Apphia Higgins 1730, and had Isaiah 1731 ; Ruth 1733 ; Abigl. 1735; Benj.;
John; and Eph. • Nehemiaii, of C., m. Hope Sears, dr. Paul, 1749, and
and had Sam. 1751; and Reuben 1752. She m. 2d Job Chase. David,
of E., m. Dorathy Horton 1701, and had Jona. 1702; Hannah 1704; Kezia
1 706 : John 1708; and Nathan 1710. Jonathan Esq., b. 1702, m. Martha
Higgins 1723, and had Elisha 1724; Hannah 1726; Jas. 1 727; Dorathy
1728; Elisa. 1733 ; Jesse 1735 ; Seth 1 739 ; Sylv’s 1740 ; and Nathan 1742.
Elisha, prob. b. 1724, had, by w. Hope, Thankful 1745 ; Elisha 1747 ;
Hannah 1749; Isaiah 1753; and Hope 1756. Isaiaii m. Rebecca Smith
1768, and had Freeman, Myriek, Rebecca, and Heman. Freeman m.
Lydia Doane, and had Polly, Zillah, Anne, Isaac, and Freeman. Myrick
m. Alice Freeman, and 2d, Temp. Knowles, and had Bethia, Russell, Alice,
Clement, Wm., and Maria. Heman m. Mehit. Butler, and had Sarah,
Heman, Isaiah, and John. John, per. also s. of Simeon, m. Betty Snow,
and had Tim. May 13, 1762, father of the present John Esq.; Heman Mar.
15, 1764; Sarah 1767 ; Betty 1769; Abigl. 1771 ; John 1777 ; and Simeon
1780.
1 We here resume the Doane genealogy. Dea. Heman, said to be s.
of Jno., and, if so, b. 1764, m. Rebecca Young, and had Barnabas, sometime
sel. man ; Heman who d. 1863 ; Abijah; Abner; Abigl.; Betsy; Rebecca;
and Soplironia. Samuel, of C., m. Mary Eldridge 1771, and had Betty
1773 ; Reuben 1 776 ; Anne 1780; and Mary 1783. Hezekiah, of E., m.
Elisa. Crowell of C. 1750. Israel, of E., m. Ruth Freeman 1730.
Thomas, of C-, m. Lett's Eldridge 1759. Elisha Esq., of Y., is said to
have been s. of Dea. Ilezekiah of W. Samuel 3d, of E., m. Dorcas Cole
1744, and had Mary 1749 ; Ruth 1752; Joel 1754; and Martha 1756.
Joseph, of E., m. Mary Godfrey 1690, and 2d, Desire Berry 1 728, and had
Mary 1691, who prob. m. Prince Freeman 1711 ; Joseph 1693; Rebecca
1698; Hannah 1700; Daniel 1703; Phebe 1704; Elisha 1706; Joshua
1709; Lydia 1715; Elisa. 1717; Sarah 1719; and Desire Dec. 9, 1728, who
m. Solomon Freeman Esq. of E., Oct. 22, 1761. Joseph Jr. m. Deborah
Paddock of C. 1725. Joshua, of E., m. Mary Freeman, and had Tamzen
1738; Josh. 1740; Kezia 1742; Heman 1744; Eunice 1746; Seth 1748;
Joseph 1750; Mary 1752; and Azariah 1754. Joseph, first of E.,then of
C., had, by w. Dorcas, Dorcas 1741; Joseph 1744; Hannah 1745; Ruth
1748; Mary 1750 in C.; Elisha 1755; Rachel 175 7; Eph. 1759; and Sarah
1 762. Joseph Jr., of C., m. Mary Ryder Jr. 1763, and per. the same m.
Abigail Gould 1766. Issue: Mercy 1767 ; Joseph 1769; Dorcas 1771;
John 1773; Elisha 1776; Abigl. 1778; Isaiah 1779 ; Joseph 1780 ; Thos.
G. 1784 ; Hezekiah 1786 ; and Neh. 1789. Joseph Jr., of C., had, by w.
Mary, Mary 1745, d. inf. ; Hezekiah 1747 ; and Mary 1750. Hezekiah,
of C., m. Mercy Arey 1770, and had Sarah 1771. Elisha, of C., m.
Tamzin Kent 17 75. Ephraim, of C., m. Experience Hopkins 1780.ANNALS OF ORLEANS.
735
distinct town has been recent. The history of East-
ham is, however, substantially a part of the history of
this township. A large portion of the prominent in-
habitants of the Nauset settlement were here; and
what
“ tot volvere casus
Insignes pietate viros, tot adire labores,
Impulerit,”
is applicable to the early ancestry of both towns. It
has generally been received as an axiom that the
occupations and manners of domestic society are usu-
ally influenced by men’s fortunes; ” it may be said of
this, as of other Cape towrns, the occupations of the
people have from the first been influenced chiefly by
their locations. So long as the soil permitted, agricultu-
ral pursuits prevailed. When circumstances indicated
superior advantages to be derived from navigating the
seas, the town became of necessity, as well as by its
location, maritime. Good men and true were they
who first located here : the exodus of the earliest from
Plymouth was lamented by the Pilgrim Church ; and
those who from other parts soon augmented their
numbers were an equally valuable accession. Hence,
the original township had large influence in the colo-
nial government. Descendants of those men of stern
principle, unbending integrity, and patriotic impulses,
perpetuate the original patronymics, and constitute
the majority. It is not for us to say they inherit and
perpetuate the virtues of generations gone: but they
certainly have, in the examples of the departed, incen-
tives that may well be operative; nor have we reason
to question the natural result. Of one thing we are
certain, — the republican simplicity of olden times pre-
vails in good degree. The sesame to respectability is
not furnished by Mammon’s vagaries, nor is there in736
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
this and contiguous towns an aristocracy other than of
God’s endowing. Should the ostentation that is some-
times assumed by a new master of wealth be exhibited
in these towns, no base servility would follow the
want of harmony between his opulence and his arro-
gance. The scrutiny of plain common-sense detecting
the deficiency, would pronounce the consequence arro-
gated the mere opinion of a man void of cultivated
intellect; and that meritorious qualities are the indig-
enous growth of manly culture.
1798. Simeon Kingman,
1800. Richard Sparrow,
1808. Jona. Bascom,
1817. Dan’l Cummings,
1825. John Doane,
1830.	Jno. Kenrick,
1831.	Sparrow Horton,
1833. Elisha Cole,
1797.	Hez’h Higgins,
“ Heman Lionel,
“ Judah Rogers,
1798.	Jona. Hopkins,
“ Tlios. Arey,
1799.	Richard Sparrow,
1801. Barn’s Twining,
1804. Nath’l Knowles,*
1811. Gideon Snow,
18 2. Jno. My rick,
1813. Stephen Snow,
18 (4. Dan’l Cummings,
“ Jabez Sparrow,
1817. Thos. Higgins,
REPRESENTATIVES.
Yrs.
5.
Yrs.
1833.	Thacher Snow,	4.
1834.	Elisha Hopkins,	1.
1835.	Eben Rogers,	2.
18 6. Thos. Mayo,	1.
1837.	Edward Barber,	2.
“ Rd. Sparrow,	1.
1838.	Luther Snow,	2.
1839.	Nath’l Freeman,	1.
1840.
1842.
1814.
1819.
1850.
1854.
1855.
1857.
SELECTMEN.
Yrs. 4.	1818. Jno. Kenrick,	Yrs. 18.	1846.
1.	1820. Asa Rogers,	4.	1850.
16.	1824. Jona. Freeman,	1.	1851.
1.	1827. Jos. L. Rogers,	6.	it
1.	1828. Elisha Cole,	7.	1852.
13.	1829. Zoetli Taylor,	1.	1853.
3.	“ Wm. Smith,	1.	1854.
7.	1832. Sparrow Horton,	2.	Cl
2.	1813. Matthew Kingman	, 2.	1855.
1L	1834. Joshua Doane,	8.	1857.
1.	1835. Edward Barber,	3.	1S58.
14.	“ Asa Hopkins,	10.	1859.
3.	1842. Jos. G. Sloan,	5.	1861.
6.	1S44. Josiah Freeman,	7.	1862.
Joshua Doane,	2.
Seth Higgins,	2.
Alex’r. Kenrick,	2.
Thacher Snow,	1.
Leander Crosby,	3.
John Kenrick,	2.
Josiah Freeman,	2.
Chapman Seabury,	1.
Ziba Eldredge,	2.
Alfred Kenrick,	3.
Thos. S. Snow,	3.
Wm. P. Myrick,	3.
Ens. B. Rogers,	2.
Harvey Sparrow,	2.
Jona. Higgins,	3.
Edw. Barber,	1.
Jesse C. Snow,	7.
Jos. W. Rogers,	1.
Calvin Snow,	3.
Jos. Cummings,	3.
Geo. W. Cummings, 1.
Edm. Crosby,	2.
TOWN TREASURERS AND CLERKS.
Yrs.
1797. Benj. Taylor,	4.
1800.	Timo. Bascom,	14.
1814. Gideon Snow,	20.
Yrs.
1834. Barnabas Snow,	7
184J. Wm. 1\ Myrick, f 11.
1850. Jona. Higgins,	5.
xrs.
1855. Thos. A. Hopkins, 5.
1801.	Thos. Higgins, 3.
* To the genealogy of the Knowles’s, we may add: Richard, of C., b. 1G88, s. of
Sam., had by w. Martha, Martha 17i4 ; Rich. 1715 ; Mercy 1717 ; James 1719 ; Cornelius
1722 ; and Rebecca 1724. Hatsel, of E. m. Maria Freeman, dr. Thos., 17G5. John, of
E.	m. Thankful Hall of S. Mar. 15, 1774. Isaac m. Deliver. Hall, and had Isaac 1776 ;
and John 1778. James, of C., m. Hannah Doane 1778. Silas, by w. Phebe, had Mary
F.	1791 ; and Silas 1794.
fWe may add to what we have already given of the genealogy of the Merrick
family, that Josiaii, of O., went to Newcastle, Me. early; m. Mary Clark, dr. of
Kimbal of Br., and was father of Doct. Lot who recently d. in Augusta, Me. Benjamin
of H., had, by w. Rebecca, Nath. 1715 ; and Benj. t719. Joshua had, by w. Lydia, Thos.
1718 ; Seth 1720 ; Joseph 1722 ; Abigl. 1724; Lucia 1726; Barn.; Hannah ; Mary ; andBeza-
leel 1736. Nathaniel had, by w. Alice, Benj. 1718 ; and Sarah 1720. John had, by w.
Frances, John 1731; Desire 1733 ; Rebecca 1735; Phebe 1736 ; David 1738 ; and Isaac
1740. William m. Elisa. Osborne of E , 1733. Benjamin 2d. m. Elisa. Davis 1738.
Benj. 3d. had, by w. Hannah, Cotten 1739.THE
ANNALS OF THE TOWN
O F
BREWSTER.
“ Wl CHERISH EYERT MEMORIAL OF THESE WORTHY ANCESTORS \ WE CELEBRATE THEIE
PATIENCE AND FORTITUDE { WE ADMIRE THEIR DARINO ENTERPRISE i WE TEACH OUR CHIL>
DREN TO VENERATE THEIR PIETY ; AND WE ARE JUSTLY PROUD OF BEING DESCENDED FROM
MEN WHO HAVE SET THE WORLD AN EXAMPLE OF FOUNDING CIVIL INSTITUTIONS ON THE
GREAT AND UNITED PRINCIPLES OF HUMAN FREEDOM AND HUMAN KNOWLEDGE.”— Daniel
Webster.
VOL II,
93
(737)Kits motion
TO ALEXANDER RANSOM, A.M.,
Jkrtist, of goston.
On completing the history, which, he is aware, has long occupied our time and
thoughts, we claim the pleasure of
I N S C R I B I N Q
to him these Annals of the thirteenth and last of the Cape towns that received
incorporation,—by no means expecting that anything related therein can be to
him of interest comparable with the slightest reminiscences of his own Green-
Mountain State; nor because the task we assumed has been accomplished without
defects,— for if it be true that “A cobbler could find some little fault in the
latchet of a shoe that an Apelles had painted, when the whole figure was such
as none but an Apelles could paint,” we are sure that artistic perfection cannot
be claimed for these pages; nor because he needs be certified of our respect and
affection: But we use this freedom, without his consent or knowledge, that we
may gratify our own sense of the many instances of his kindly sympathy in our
labors, —a sympathy always delicately evinced,— and, he is assured, never lightly
esteemed by
THE AUTHOR
(738)ANNALS OF BREWSTER
This town was incorporated Feb. 19, 1803, — the
name being chosen in deference to the memory of
William Brewster, prominent among the Pilgrims who
came over in the Mayflower in 1620. Until 1803, the
present township constituted a part of Harwich.
Situation', Boundaries, etc. — Brewster is situated 69 m.<
S. E. and by S. from Boston. It is distant, by water, about 66
m.; and by land about 80 m. From the county shire, it is dis-
tant about 18 m. E.; from Provincetown, it is by land about 36
m. S.; from Falmouth, about the same distance N. E. by E.;
and 25 m. from Sandwich, E.
It is bounded E. by Orleans; S. by Harwich; W. by Dennis;
and N. by Barnstable Bay. It covers an area of about 8 m. by 4
m., its extreme length being from E. to W.
Natural Divisions, etc. — The chief divisions are Brews-
ter proper, lying nearly in the centre of the northerly part of
the township ; East Brewster, lying E. N. E. of the former;
and West Brewster, the ancient SetucJcet, often designated
Factory Village — once familiarly known as Winslow’s Mills,—
lying W. by S. of Brewster proper.
The face of the township is somewhat diversified by hills and
dales; and from some of its greater elevations the waters of the
sea on either side of the Cape may be seen; whilst, in a northerly
direction, buildings in Eastham—8 or 10 m. distant by land, and
6 by water, — are visible ; as also the reflection of the sun’s rays
by windows in Wellfleet, Truro, and Provincetown.
In the northern part of the township is fertile tillage-land, of
a clayey or heavy soil, which, with proper culture, yields good
(739)740
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
crops. The meadow-lands furnish good cuttings of English hay.
The cereals are produced in good degree ; and the usual varieties
of vegetables in moderate abundance. The salt-marshes furnish
an ample supply of their kind of provender for cattle. Still, this
is not conspicuous as an agricultural town ; although it may be
considered as ranking in this respect before most other towns on
the lower part of the Cape. Gardening is richly compensated ;
and fruit is yielded by orchards receiving proper attention.1 The
cranberry culture is becoming considerably in vogue, and is high-
ly remunerative.
South of the preceding narrow strip of arable land are hills
ranging from Dennis to Orleans, chiefly valuable as wood-lands.2
In the southwesterly part of the township, the land is lighter.
A chain of ponds covering several hundred acres is a distinguished
feature. From these ponds, known by the general name of Mill
Pond, issues a stream that affords motive power for manufactur-
ing purposes, as also a channel for that valuable fish called
herrings, but properly alewives.
In the southerly part of the township is also a series of ponds,
near the line that divides this town from Harwich, the most not-
ed of which are Long Pond and Sheep Pond. Yet another col-
lection of ponds is a cluster nearer Orleans, the largest of which
is Cliff Pond. We may not enumerate all the ponds in this
township ; but Cobb’s, Pine, Slough, Wing’s, White’s, Foster’s,
Baker’s, Myrick’s, etc., are among the number. Several of these
afford piscatory privileges, — perch and pickerel being found in
them.
Flats extend from the seashore about a mile into the Bay.
The harbor is artificial; a convenient breakwater, for the accom-
modation of packets and other small vessels, affords security for
the navigation necessarily seeking a harbor here.
The population of this town was, in 1855, when the State cen-
1	The saline properties of the atmosphere on the lower parts of the Cape
are not favorable to orcharding; and in several of the towns below, where
the winds have full sweep, the attempts to cultivate fruit-trees develop
curious phenomena: the few apple-trees that exist are not only small, but
the branches are all horizontal, growing from near the roots, and cowering
so closely to the ground that a sheep could scarcely pass under them. In
fact, in some places in the towns below Brewster, neither tree nor shrub of
any kind is to be found, — the outward appearance of dwellings being in
this respect cheerless. Their location is a mere bridge of wind.
2	The reliance for fuel is not altogether on these woods; peat, a home-
production, is considerably used; but coal has, of late years, come into very
general requisition.ANNALS OF BREWSTER.
741
sus was taken, 1525! The commercial or maritime interests of
the town are not to be estimated by the number of vessels that
resort to its harbor. Extensive ownership is had of larger craft
that sail from Boston and other ports. It has generally been es-
timated that about three-fourths of the male inhabitants, of suit-
able age, are most of the time upon the seas.1 2 The mariners of
this town3 have always been distinguished for nautical ability
and enterprise, as have the inhabitants generally for their intelli-
gence and hospitable, social, and moral qualities. The ship-mas-
ters, of which this town furnishes a large number, are generally
part owners of the vessels they navigate; and their large inter-
course with the world abroad gives them a character that con-
tributes to the high social position which the town occupies.
Brewster is, in fact, one of the most agreeable towns on the
Cape. The neat and thrifty aspect of the dwellings has long
been proverbial. These are chiefly on or near the county road
and are thickly studded along to considerable extent; but, aside
from this route, on that parallel with it, and nearer the shore, as
also on streets crossing from the one to the other, are many pleas-
ant situations, as also on roads in the easterly part of the town
diverging: to the shore. The town contains four meetinor-houses ;4
a town-hall; a large hall for lectures, lyceum, and other purposes;
Odd-fellows lodge; almshouse; and six school-houses. The re-
1	The number of inhabitants previous to the incorporation of Brewster,
was, in the original township, 2857; and of these, 1353 were in this, the
North, Parish; leaving 1504 in the South Parish which remained to the
parent town.
2	In 1803, there were more masters and mates of vessels, hailing from this
town, than from any other in proportion to population.
3	The fisheries were never a prominent business here. They are carried
on here to some extent, — less now than formerly. The chief employments
of the men, and the chief use of the navigation owned here, are in the
coasting-trade and in foreign voyages, — especially the latter. The amount
invested here in vessels of all kinds — principally large freighting ships— was,
according to the valuation made by the assessors, May, 1857, about $228,-
400. The extensive salt-works which once formed no unimportant feature
of the northerly portion of the town, have, of late years, been fast disap-
pearing. Some remain; but their numbers and importance are greatly
diminished. There is in town some manufacturing of yarns, threads, or
fabrics; but the place cannot be considered with propriety as, in any im-
portant degree, a manufacturing town. Once, the site of the Winslow
Mills was the scene of manufacturing industry, and the centre to which
every good housewife, for many miles around, sent the produce of her loom,
for completion.
4	We include the edifice in the N. W. part of the town, known as the Red
Meeting-house; but are informed that it has almost ceased to be used.742
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
ligious denominations occupying the several places for public
worship are Congregational, Baptist, Universalist, and Methodist.
Progress of the Town, etc. — Before entering upon
what are properly the doings of the town of Brewster
— which must date from its incorporation, — we may,
for reasons that will be obvious, advert a moment to
times anterior.
Gov. Bradford, holding the Plymouth patent by
title u To William Bradford, hfe heirs, associates, and
assigns,” had, when desired to surrender that charter
into the hands of the General Court, reserved, by
agreement, his and associates’ proportion. On that
portion of the reservation located here, settlements
began early. No later than 1670, Mr. John Dilling-
ham and Mr. John Wing from Sandwich were here
first as purchasers and settlers; nor are we sure that
these were first in occupancy.1
Harwich, we have seen, was inc. Sept. 14,1694 ; and
a church was gathered Oct. 16,1700. Here the inhab-
itants resided, at least in greatest numbers; and here
was erected the ancient house of their solemnities.
In 1747, the settlements had so extended that a meet-
ing-house was built in the south part of the town,
another parish organized, and, in connection with it,
another church. The two parishes and churches now
existing were distinctively known as the First and
Second, or North and South. The original church be-
ing thus associated, from its incipiency to the year
1747, with the North Precinct, which, by the dividing
enactment, was constituted the new town, Brewster had
precedence in ecclesiastical history. Rev. Nathaniel
1 “ At a meeting of proprietors of land between Bound Brook and Stoney
Brook, held Ap. 16, 1703, John Dillingham Sr.,Kenelm Winslow Sr., Paul
Sears, Ananias Wing, Andrew Clark, John Dillingham Jr., John Wing,
and Kenelm Winslow Jr.” are mentioned as present.ANNALS OF BREWSTER.
743
Stone, residing here, and for 47 yrs. minister of the
parent town and its only church, continued, after the
withdrawal of those constituting the South Precinct
and the gathering of a new church within the bounds
of the latter precinct, the minister of the North Pre-
cinct alone, and of the original church from which
those composing the South Church had withdrawn.1
In 1748, seven years before his decease, he received
as colleague Rev. Isaiah Dunster, who was ordained
Nov. 2,2 and continued in the ministry here until his
decease, Jan. 18, 1791, at the age of 72. Mr. Dunster
was succeeded by Rev. John Simpkins, who was ordained
Oct. 19, 1791.3
There is little of interest furnished by early church
records, beyond the’ entries of births, baptisms, admis-
sions, dismissions, marriages, and deaths, — if we ex-
cept cases of discipline.4
1	See pp. 494, 513, and 517; also, Vol. I. 390.
2	See p. 516. In a record kept by Rev. Mr. Stone is this entry: “ Nov.
2, 1748, was ord. pastor of the church, Mr. Isaiah Dunster—Mr. Stone
being senior pastor. Assisting were the senior pastor and Rev. Mr. Russell
of Barnstable who gave the charge ”
3	See p. 522. It is worthy of remark that the pastorates of Rev. Messrs.
Stone, Dunster, and Simpkins filled a period of 131 years. Mr. Stone “was
an able divine, a man of fervent piety, and of great firmness of character. ”
Mr. Dunster’s ministry of 53 years was also able and useful. Mr.
Stone, we have said, p. 391, m. Reliance dr. of Gov. Hinckley; she is said
to have been “ baptized on the day of the memorable swamp-fight with the
Narragansets,—receiving her name in token of firm reliance on Divine
Providence, her father being among the soldiers who were in that battle.”
4	Cases of discipline, as reported, evince a desire on the part of both pas-
tor and church to be duly, perhaps rigidly, faithful. There are instances,
not a few, of discipline for alleged “ fornication ” — the offence, in every
case, committed previous to marriage by those who, at the time of the disci-
plinary process, were husband and wife; the only evidence against them
being furnished by the early appearance of the first-born. The bethrothal
seems to have been regarded by some as equivalent to the matrimonial
bond; but not so by the church. Mr. Stone appears to have been greatly
pained and scandalized by these occurrences; and, in 1730, 17 years before
the division of the town into parishes, made this entry on the record: “ There
is a sad failing in family government, — a wicked practice of young people
in their courtships, which I have borne my public testimony against; and
from the countenance that has been given by many ministers and churches
to the openly scandalous vice of uncleanness in a neighboring pastor, namely,
Mr. Osborn.” In 1763, a singular case of protracted and vexatious disci-744
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
A few years after the settlement of Rev. Mr. Simp-
kins, it was found necessary to enlarge the meeting-
house. This was effected in 1796.
In 1803, Mar. 8, “ by virtue of authority derived by
an act of the Legislature passed Feb. 19, 1803, enti-
tled ‘ An Act to divide the town of Harwich, and to
incorporate the northerly part thereof into a separate
town by the name of Brewster,’ 1 the first town-meet-
ing was held, Hon. Solomon Freeman being chosen mod-
erator ; Sylvanus Stone Esq., town-clerk and treasurer ;
Col. Jonathan Snow, Capt. Anthony Gray and Mr. Ke-
nelm Winslow, selectmen and assessors;”2 and, at a
meeting, May 12, Capt. Isaac Clark was unanimously
chosen to represent the town in General Court.3
At its setting out on its municipal career, this newly-
established town exhibited in good degree the effect of
the impetus given to public spirit and enterprise. The
first important move was, at a town meeting, Oct. 17,
pline is recorded by Mr. Dunster: “ The church met to hear a charge
examined against a sister, brought by another sister in the church, the push-
ing her out of a pew, and hunching another in time of divine service in the
meeting-honse.” Among the baptisms recorded, is this: “ Caesar, Negro’s
son, bap. June 21, 1747.” Another entry is, uMar. 25,1716, at Dea. Free-
man’s decease was £ 7 overplus of contributions at the sacrament, one-half
was given to the family.”
1 To the anomalous provisions of this act, we have referred, p. 523. The
dividing line is thus defined : “ Beginning on the west on the line of the town
of Dennis and at a point one mile south of a large oak-tree standing in or
near said line of Dennis, which tree is on the S. W. side of Pine Pond so
called ; thence on a strait line to the N. W. corner of Hinckley’s Pond so
called; thence N. N. E. to Bangs’ Pond so called, and to the middle there-
of; thence through the middle of said Bangs’ Pond, crossing a narrow
beach, into Long Pond; thence through the middle of said Long Pond,
crossing several narrow beaches or chains of ponds, through the middle and
to the easterly end of the same; thence on a strait line to a rock in Pleasant
Bay so called, which rock is in the line between Harwich and Orleans;
thence on the line of Orleans to Barnstable Bay; thence with said Bay to
the line of Dennis; thence in the line of Dennis to the bounds first mention-
ed.”
2The following appears on the old records of the 1st church: “ Mar. 13,
being the 1st Sunday after the town was organized, baptized Thos. Mayo’s
twins, being the first, baptisms in Brewster, by the names of Brewster and
Caleb Strong” In another place is this: From Oct. 1792 to Oct. 1829,
admitted to church membership, 231 : baptized 33 adults and 644 children.’*
3 Mr. Clark was elected, with great unanimity, several successive years.ANNALS OF BREWSTER.
745
a vote “ to raise $1000 toward the support of an acad-
emy, if one may be established here; ” 1 the next, a
provision “ for readjusting the number and limits of
the school-districts; ” and next, the raising of money
“ for the support of common schools in each district.”
In 1804, April 2, a com. was app. “ to examine the shore and
fix on the most eligible spot for a harbor, and report.”
In 1805, Jan. 17, it was thought- necessary to petition the Gen.
Court for “ an additional Act of Incorporation explanatory of the
former, and vesting in this town ail the powers, privileges, and
immunities heretofore enjoyed by the North Precinct of the old
town of Harwich before the setting off this town ; and to dissolve
said parish as such,” etc. The fact is, the division of the town of
Harwich had been most strenuously opposed not only by the in-
habitants residing in the South Precinct, but by numbers of
highly influential and respectable persons in the North Precinct;
and the Act of Incorporation, obtained as the result of a hard-
fought contest, was, as we have before said, anomalous and incon-
venient. Shaped by adverse circumstances, it foreboded, by its
singular provisions, constant trouble. It is not our province to
enter further upon this matter. The sober second-thought of
the sagacious foresaw that difficulties connected with taxation,
pauperism, representation, improvements of highways, schools,
etc., would, without further legislation, be henceforward rife, and
were wisely solicitous therefore to prevent these evils
“ And save tli’ expense of long litigious laws,
Where suits are travers’d, and so little won
That he wrho conquers is but last undone.”
In 1806, Sept. 9, the report of the com. for determining the
best site for a harbor having been duly considered, it was re-
solved “ to build a dam across Setucket Creek where the old tide
mill formerly stood.” The dam, we are informed, was not con-
structed.
In 1807, as in previous years, $200 was appropriated to com-
mon schools ; nor was an additional appropriation withheld u for
teaching sacred music.” We would not be derelict by omitting
to mention the desire here, as in other towns, to suppress those
JThis academy, designed to be a county institution, was finally located in
Sandwich, and its later history is an illustration of the perversions to which
funds for the support of such institutions are liable.
VOL. ii.	94746
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
great annoyers of the farmer’s cornfields ; and, therefore, we re-
cord the fact that now, as generally, the bounty for blackbirds was
one cent per head, and for their eggs 3 cents per dozen. Hon.
Solomon Freemen died Mar. 8, 1808, as. 75.
As we approach the times so disastrous to the in-
terests of the mercantile communities, and especially
to the towns on the Cape the bulk of whose business is
involved in unrestrained and entirely free access to
the seas, it will not surprise the reader to find the
town voting, Mar. 8, 1808, to memorialize Congress,
“ setting forth the grievances ” caused by the embargo.1
In 1809, Jan. 23, the inconveniences suffered by the
people had so nearly approached a distressing crisis,
that unwonted solemnity attached to the town-meeting
called for that day; after choosing Maj. Elijah Cobb
moderator, it was “ voted that, as this meeting is called
upon an extraordinary occasion, the Rev. Mr. Simpkins
be invited to open the meeting with prayer.” Waited
on by a com., that reverend and estimable divine
attended, and the throne of Divine Grace was addressed
with a fervency suited to the circumstances. It was
then, after deliberation, — there being only seven dis-
senting voices, —
“ Resolved, 1. That we rao:t sincerely and deeply deplore the
very urgent occasion that now calls us to exerc’se the Constitu-
tional right, vested in the people, to assemble in a peaceable and
orderly manner to consult the common good and to request of
the Legislative body, by addresses, petition, or memorial, a redress
of wrongs done, or of grievances suffered.
“ 2. That we have endeavored to manifest a cheerful submission
1 The restiveness of an active and business people, under the privations
imposed, may be inferred by a circumstance related to us: ‘A vessel belong-
ing here had been fitted out at Plym., in 1808, to run the embargo, but was
captured off the Cape by a sloop of war, and sent in to Provincetown Har-
bor. The captain of the craft at once communicated with the owners here;
a packet was immediately manned, boarded the prize, retook her. and she
sailed for Surinam. The U. S. marshal came to investigate the affair, but
was not very cordially received, nor was his visit effectual. *ANNALS OF BREWSTER.
747
to the constituted authorities of our Country; yet there is a point
beyond which endurance is criminal and submission becomes
slavery.
“ 3. That imperious necessity calls loudly upon us to remon-
strate, with that frankness which becomes citizens, but with the
respect due to lawful authority, against the embargo system and
the several laws enacted by the Congress of the United States
to enforce the same ; and we do hereby remonstrate against them,
as unjust in their nature, unequal in their operation, a cruel in-
fringement of our most precious rights, and subversive of the main
design of Government, which is instituted for the protection and
not for the destruction of its citizens.
“ 4. That we view with high approbation the patriotic labors
of those who have clearly pointed out the inefficiency of the
embargo, as coercive upon Foreign Nations, and justly described
its ruinous effects on ourselves.
“ 5. That, as their exertions have been unavailing and our peti-
tions have been fruitless, we feel ourselves bound to embrace every
legal measure yet in our power to avert impending ruin. There-
fore,
“ 6. That we will represent to the Honorable Legislature of this
Commonwealth, in a respectful memorial, our truly deplorable
situation, and implore their aid by all lawful means to obtain for
ourselves and fellow-citizens a redress of grievances.”
After passing these resolutions, Maj. Elijah Cobb and
Elijah Clark Esq. were chosen “ a com. to memorialize
the Gen. Court,1” and Messrs. Elijah Cobb, Freeman
Foster Jr., Joseph Sampson, Isaiah Clark, Abram Wins-
low, and David Nickerson were app.66 a Com. of Safety
and correspondence to inform our fellow-citizens in the
vicinity and elsewhere of the doings of this meeting,
and to consult and cooperate with them in any Constitu-
tional methods of obtaining relief under our present
unhappy circumstances; and to inform the inhabitants
of this town of any unlawful encroachment upon their
rights, and to call to account any person or persons
patrolling about our town in> a riotous, hostile, or suspi-
cious manner — by taking them before the civil author-
ity to be dealt with according to law.”748
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
The memorial adopted and presented to the legislature, was as
follows: u To the Hon. the Senate and House of Reps, of the
Commonwealth of Mass, in Gen. Ct. assembled : — The inhabitants
of the town of Br. respectfully represent that their local situation
and the general sterility of the soil lead them to the ocean for
subsistence. They have long resorted to this as a field which
God and nature has prescribed for their enterprise and industry,
and have been accustomed to consider the improvement of it as
their birthright. The restrictions upon this privilege by the seve-
ral embargo laws enacted by the Govt, of the U. States, excite sur-
prise too great for description, and feelings too great for utterance.
We had flattered ourselves that the Govt, of our Country would
not unintentionally become our greatest foe. We had indulged
the hope that they would not interdict the commerce that was
yet spared to us even by strangers and compel us to relinquish
the only means of support that remained. Your memorialists
are ready with their lives and fortunes to encounter the hazards
and expenses of warfare when duty requires. They are ready to
bear, in common with their fellow-citizens, any justifiable measures
which may be adopted to prevent an appeal to arms; but the
restrictions now put upon commerce are conceived to be beyond
all proportion burdensome to your memorialists and almost single
them out as victims for destruction. The abandonment of the
ocean is to them as oppressive and distressing as it would be to the
farmer to be prohibited the use of his lands. Whilst nature is
lavish in her bounty in the rich soil which many of our country-
men have the happiness to cultivate, her parsimony in the territory
we inhabit compels many to resort to the ocean for that subsist-
ence which the land refuses. Deprived of their maritime pursuits,
numbers who have a rising family to support are thrown out of
employ and behold their cheering prospects blasted, and the
energies of our enterprising youth are nipped in the bud. Against
a measure so very unequal in its operation, and so peculiarly dis-
tressing to your memorialists, as a long continuance of the
embargo, we feel ourselves in duty bound most strongly to remon-
strate. Having in vain attempted by every peaceful method to
arrest the blow; having in vain petitioned for exemption from
destruction; we now turn our eyes and lift up our supplicating
voice to the more immediate guardians of the Commonwealth.
Self-defence, the first law of nature, and compassion for our fami-
lies, dictated by humanity and natural affection, forbid us to be
silent respecting the continuance of an act which is emphaticallyANNALS OF BREWSTER.
749
pregnant with mischief both to the property and the morals of
the inhabitants; an act which, while it threatens destruction to
the hard earnings of industry, unnerves the arm of diligence and
cuts off future supplies. Whilst the mouth of labor is forbidden
to eat, the language of complaint is natural. When our children
cry for bread and we have none to give, the feelings of nature
will not be controlled. If peace cannot, consistently with duty
and honor, be preserved with other nations, let us meet the foe
with arms in our hands; for we esteem any mode of resistance
or defence infinitely preferable to a system of starvation. With
ruin at our doors, and poverty staring us in the face, we beseech,
conjure, and implore your honorable body to interpose your influ-
ence by all constitutional and suitable means to obtain a redress
of the oppressive grievances which we suffer. And as in duty
bound, will ever pray.”1
A communication from the towns of Chatham, Orleans, East-
ham, and Wellfleet being presented, May 9, requesting this town
to app. an agent or agents to meet, in Orleans on the 3d Tues. of
May inst., agents from the several towns below, to consult on
measures to obtain a separate District of Collection and Inspec-
tion to be composed of the following towns, namely, Brewster,
Harwich, Chatham, Orleans, Eastham, Truro, and Provincetown,
Isaac Clark Esq. was chosen by this town for said purpose. It
was also “ voted to build a house for the deposit of the ordnance
of the Artillery Company of this town, to be located in the H.
W. corner of Asa Mayo’s land.”
In 1810, it was “ voted to remonstrate against the appointment
of Edward O’Brien as postmaster in this town, he being a for-
eigner and, in the opinion of the inhabitants, an alien.”
In 1811, and for some years after, the same appropriation as in
all the years before was made for common schools. Mr. Sylva-
nus Stone died this year, ae. 65.2
1	That the embargo was in its influence disastrous to the maritime towns,
none can doubt; but the justice and propriety of national measures depend
on the circumstances that accompany and induce them. We feel justified
in making this remark only.
2	Sylvanus Stone Esq.,b. 1746, was many years postmaster, magistrate,
etc., and was son of Nathaniel Stone Esq., b. Nov. 30, 1714, a magis-
trate, high sheriff, etc. under the crown, son of Rev. Nathaniel, the first
minister of Harwich. See Yol. I. 390-1. Sheriff Stone, who d. Jan. 1,
1777, ae. 63, m. Miry Bourne, dr. Hon. Sylvs. of Be. 1740. Issue: Mary*
June 7, 1742 whod. 1829, se. 88 ; Sylvanus July 17,1743, d. inf.; Hannah
Aug. 4, 1744 who m. Joseph Parker Esq. of F. and d. 1824, ae. 80;
Sylvanus* Ap. 4, 1746; Abigail Dec. 29, 1748 who m. Edw. Howes of750
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1812, liberty was granted to a company “ to cut, without
expense to the town, a canal from Quivet Creek to Mill River.”1
A letter from the selectmen of Boston to the select-
men of this town, respecting “ the distressing situation
of our country,” was read in town-meeting, July 2,
and “ approved.” It was also “ voted to approve of
the Boston Resolutions disapproving of the war with
Great Britain ; ” also thatDoct. Joseph Sampson, Isaac
Clark Esq., Cap! Thos. Seabury, Capt. Isaac Foster
Jr., and Capt. Joseph Snow, be a com. “to take into
consideration the alarming state of our public affairs,
and memorialize, or otherwise, as they may think
proper, the Governor and Council.” Resolutions were
adopted, July 20, and a memorial sent to the President
of the United States, signed by the selectmen and cer-
tified by the town-clerk. Delegates were also chosen
to attend a Convention at Yarmouth July 21, namely,
Isaac Clark, Esq., Capt. Kimbal Clark, Capt. Isaac Fos-
ter, Capt. Freeman Foster, Capt. Elkanah Freeman,
Capt. David Nickerson, Capt. David Snow, Capt. Thos.
Seabury, Maj. Benj. Foster, and Capt. Jeremiah Mayo.2
Mr. Seth Lincoln Sr. died this year, Sept. 9.3
Barre; Wm. Jan. 31, 1750, who d. 1780 ; Lucy Feb. 22, 1751 who d 1775 ;
Eunice 1755 who m. Capt. Moses Allen of S. and d. 1780 ; Nathan May 13,
1757 who d. 1781 ; Mercy* Mar. 6, 1 758 who d. 1839 se. 72; Sarah Mar.
4, 1761 who m. Joseph Ripley of Barre and d. 1805; Olive Oct. 23, 1763
who m. Rev. John Simpkins and d. Ap. 4, 1844 ae. 80 ; and Fanny 1766 who
m. Nathan Sparrowhawk of Rox. and d. 1790, m. 24. The mother d. Nov.
14, 1813, as. 94. Neither of the sons married, and this branch of the Stone
family became extinct on the Cape. It is remarkable that tho<e marked *
became lunatic. Dca. Heman, b. Sept. 4, 1705, bro. of the preceding,
m. Temperance Sturgis of Y. June 21, 1727 who d. 1742, eg. 34, and 2d,
Lydia who d. 1763, se. 42. Hed. Ap. 26, 17 79, as. 75. Issue : Edw. May
6, 1728, d. inf.; Mehit. June 23, 1729, d. inf.; Mehit. Jan. 1 7, 1730-1;
Edw. 1732, d. inf.; Temper. Feb 15. 1734: Kezia Sept. 25, 1736; Edw.
Aug. 25, 1738; and Reliance 1740 who m. Freeman.
1	This canal was a small affair, perhaps hardly worthy of mention.
2	Some idea maybe formed of the great proportion of sea-captains in this
town, by the constitution of this and other committees. There is said to
be a greater proportion of commanders of vessels here than in any other
town of its population.
* Whether the Lincolns of this town are of the same lineage with theANNALS OF BREWSTER.
751
In 1814, Feb. 7, resolutions were adopted in relation
to “ the perilous times and the late embargo law; ”
and a com. consisting of Maj. Elisha Cobb, Capt. Thos.
Seabury, and Doct. Jos. Sampson, was chosen to draft
a memorial to the legislature. “A com. of safety,
seven in number,” was app., July 29, "for the purpose
of expediting any communication that may be found
necessary, to the different parts of the town and else-
where, under the alarming crisis of our public affairs.”
It was also “ voted to petition the Postmaster General,
praying him to fix the day of the week and the
hour of the day in which the post-rider shall arrive at
the town of Brewster on his way down the Cape, and
also on his return; and that the com. of safety attend
to this matter.”
“At a town-meeting held, Sept. 18, on Sunday, at
10 o’clock, a. m., in the meeting-house, on the very
sudden and urgent occasion that had arisen, — for the
purpose of deliberating and consulting what measures
are best to be taken in reference to the demand of
f4,000 made upon this town by Commodore Ragget,
commander of the British ship Spencer, now in the
Bay; Elijah Cobb Esq. was chosen moderator, and
Rev. Mr. Simpkins was called upon to invoke the Di-
vine blessing and direction in prayer. The com. of
safety then related the conversation they had on board
family early in Barnstable, we are unable to say. Mr. Thomas Lincoln,
b. Dec. 26, 1652, s. of Thos. who d. in Hing. Aug. 16, 1692, says Mr.
Savage, m. Sarah Snow, Jan. 6, 1680, (Mr. Savage says, m. Sarah Lewis
dr. of James of Be.,?) and had Sarah Oct. 21, 1685 ; Susanna Sept. 19,
1688; Thos. Aug. 30, 1692, d. inf.; Ebenezer Ap. 9, 1694: and Mary.
Jonathan, of Harwich, m. Hannah Clark Ap. 26, 1711. Issue: John
Mar. 6, 1711-12; Benj. Jan. 23, 1713-14; Clark Feb. 7, 1715-16; Hannah
1718 who m. Berry; and Sarah 1720 who m. Foster. Thomas had, by wire
Rachel, Marg’t. 1712; Thankful 1716; and Elisa. 1719. Nathaniel m.
Hannah Asten Oct. 16, 1729, and had Hannah 1730 who m. John Chapman
1747; Mary 1731; Phebe 1733; Thos. Nov. 10, 1735; and Sarah 1737.
Thomas m. Phebe Godfrey of C. Nov. 23, 1758.752
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
His Majesty’s Ship Spencer with the commander of
said ship: Whereupon, it was voted,
w 1. To communicate the subject of the letter from Com. Rag-
get addressed to this town, to our neighboring towns and report.
u2. That the com. for this purpose consist of five, namely, Eli-
jah Cobb Esq. to go to Eastham and Orleans; Solomon Freeman
Esq to Chatham; Capt. Benj. Berry, to Harwich; Capt. Thos.
Seabury, to Dennis; and Mr. Kenelm Winslow and Capt. Free-
man Foster, to Yarmouth and Barnstable.
“ 3. That the committees from other towns, if chosen, assemble
in the meeting-house in Brewster, at 6 o’clock this evening.
“4. That the commander of Artillery in Brewster engage
horses to be in readiness for the ordnance ; and that a committee,
one from each school-district, ascertain promptly how many over
45 years of age and under 60, including others exempts, may be
found who will join the artillery, as there is a deficiency in said
company.
“ The meeting was then adjourned to 5 o’clock, p. m.
“ The committees returned and reported £ that the town of
Brewster can make no dependence on any of our neighbors for
assistance in our alarming and distressed situation.”
“ After much consultation and deliberation, it was
voted that the com. of safety who went on board his
B. M. Ship Spencer, go again this night and make the
best terms possible with Com. Ragget as respects the
$4,000 demanded; and that said committee be, and
are, clothed with sufficient power from this town, to
make such terms.”
This last vote was unsatisfactory to many; and,
after much anxious debate, was reconsidered. It was
then “ voted to choose a com. of disinterested persons
from out of town, to say what kind of property shall
be taxed for the contribution-money, if any must be
paid ; said com. not to be owners of salt-works, and to
be chosen at some future day.” Also “ voted that the
same com. that went on board the ship Spencer, with
the addition of Capt. Elkanah Freeman, go on boardANNALS OF BREWSTER.
753
as soon as may be, and make the best terms they pos-
sibly can.” The meeting then adjourned to 4 o’clock
the next day.
The inhabitants assembled at 4 o’clock, p. m., Sept
19, agreeably to adjournment, Isaac Clark Esq. mode-
rator. The com. app. to go on board the Br. ship, hav-
ing returned, reported “ that after they arrived on
board the said ship, they used their best endeavors to
obtain a relinquishment of a part of the sum demand-
ed, but could not obtain the abatement of a dollar;
they were, therefore, obliged to give their security for
the sum of $4,000 in specie, to be paid on the 1st day
of October next.” Whereupon, it was “ voted that the
report be accepted,” in which the voices were nearly
unanimous. It was further “ voted, that those in op-
position be noted,” but u two appearing in opposition,
namely, Capt. Joseph Snow and Mr. Theodore Berry.”
It was then “ voted that a com. of five be chosen from
among our own townsmen to report what property
shall be taxed to raise the $4,000; and Maj. Elijah
Cobb, Mr. David Foster, Solomon Freeman Esq., Mr.
Joseph Crocker, and Capt. Freeman Foster were ap-
pointed ; which com. reported that “ the contribution-
money shall be taxed upon the salt-works, buildings of
every description, and vessels owned in this town of
every description frequenting, or lying on, the shores; ”
and their report was accepted. It was then “ voted to
hire the money, until it can be assessed and collected ; ”
“ voted that the thanks of the town be given to the
committee for their perseverance and attention in
bringing about an accommodation with the Br. Com-
modore for the safety and protection of the town and
property in it; ” and “ voted that should any persons
VOL. II.
95754
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
belonging to Harwich and owning here/ pay their part
of the contribution-money, and should a like demand
be made on the town of Harwich and paid, their money
shall be returned”
The day before the term of grace expired, the
$4,000 was paid, and the following acknowledgment
returned: —
“ These are to certify all whom it may concern :
“That the Inhabitants and Proprietors of the Salt Works at
Brewster have come forward with a contribution to prevent the
destruction of their salt-works and town; And Ido hereby ac-
knowledge to have received the same as a contribution; And I
do also guarantee the safety of the said salt-works and town at
Brewster during the present war:—Provided, the ground on
which the said salt-works and town are erected shall continue
private property and not be occupied by the Government of the
Country as a public work; the said contribution being $4000.
“Given under my hand on board Ilis Britannic Majesty’s Ship
Spencer, Cape Cod Bay, this 30th day of September, 1814.
[Seal.] '	Signed, Richard Raggett, Captain.
Isaac Clark Esq., Capt. Elkanah Freeman, and Thos.
Seabury Esq., were app. a com., Sept. 20, to represent
the town in county convention.
It having become necessary, on account of the ille-
gality of proceedings at the several meetings held, con-
sequent upon the demands made by the Br. ship of
war, said meeting’s having been convened without due
notice, to apply to the Gen. Court for an Act making
the proceedings valid, a petition to this effect was pre-
sented Oct. 7, and “ a resolve confirmatory ” of the do-
1 We see here one instance of the peculiar embarrassments attending
municipal transactions, by reason of that singular feature in the Act of
incorporation. There were residing here in the very heart of the town,
owners of houses, salt-works, and vessels, the safety of whose property was
secured by the contribution-money paid, who with their estates belonged in
Harwich and might not be taxed in Brewster, or in any wise .made responsi-
ble by the town’s doings, however much they inured to the individual
benefit of singularly-cireumstanced fragments of the former town scattered
among the territory of the latter. No part of the contribution-money was
paid by Harwich men.ANNALS OF BREWSTER.
755
ings of the inhabitants was passed Oct. 26, and the
following day was approved by the governor; and
Oct. 26, it was thought proper, on account of “ the pe-
culiar position of the town, the destruction of its busi-
ness, and its being left unprotected by government, to
petition for exemption from direct taxes.” The neces-
sity which had been imposed upon the inhabitants, of
capitulating for their safety, was strenuously urged.
Mr. Benjamin Bangs died this year, March 9, se. 56 ; 1
and Mr. David H. Crosby d. June 21.
In 1815, May 8, it was “ voted to petition the legislature to re-
fund to the town $4,000 paid to Rd. Ragget Esq. as a contribu-
tion.” It is understood that no relief was obtained.
Doct. William Fessenden died, June 17.2
In 1816, Feb. 5, the project of building, in conjunction with
neighboring towns, accommodations for the poor, was agitated.
A com. was app. “to confer with all the towns from Yarmouth
to Provincetown respecting a county poor-house.” The usual
sum of $200 was appropriated for schools ; and a subscription was
ordered “for the objects of the Massachusetts Gen. Hospital So-
ciety, agreeably to a c ommunication made by said society.” The
alewife fishery received its annual share of attention, an agent
being app. “ to take care of the town’s right to it.”3
In 1817, the town petitioned the Postmaster General for a
semi-weekly mail.
In 1818, the town “resolved, since the project of a county
poor-house has failed, to build in union with Harwich.”
In consequence of the provision of Sec. ii. of the Act of Inc.,
1	Mr. Benj. Bangs, b. July 24, 1758, was father of Benj., an eminent
merchant who d. in Boston, 1860.
2	Doct. Fessenden m. Pede Freeman, dr. Seth, 1797, who d. Dec. 9,
1812. They had Geo. Nov. 1, 1798 who was lost at sea Jan. 26, 1820;
Betsy 1800 ; Evelina 1802 who m. "Watson Freeman Esq.; Lucy 1804 ; and
Hannah 1808. The father of Doct. F., was of the same name, b. Sept. 5,
1732, s. of Benj. of S. See Vol. I. 651-3. Doct. Fessenden Sr. m.
Mehit. Freeman, dr. Benj. of II., Feb. 24, 1756 who d. 1808. He d. Nov.
5, 1802. Issue : Wm., Thos., Benj., Isaac, Mehit., Nabby, Lucy, Betsy, and
Hannah.
3	This fishery, in Stoney Brook, is less productive than formerly. Fish
weirs constructed on the flats making from the shore of this and neighbor-
ing towns now afford large quantities of alcwives, blue-fish, and, in fact,
most of the varieties found in the Bay.756
HISTORY OP BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
difficulties often occurred; and a statement was mutually agreed
upon by commissioners of the two towns of Harwich and Brews-
ter, and was referred to the honorable the Justices of the Circuit
Court of Com. Pleas. A decision was made, Sept. 3, by Judges
Adams and Mitchell; but as it related only to the particular case
submitted, the result was of little value, — the act providing that
certain remonstrants have liberty to remain associated with the
town of Harwich, although residing within the bounds of Brews-
ter, vexed questions, with varying circumstances, were constantly
arising.
Mr. John Winslow Sr. died this year, Jan. 19. Mr. Isaac
Clark Sr. d. Feb. 11, 1819 j1 and Mr. David Nickerson Sr., at
sea, Feb. 27.2
In 1820, we find a com. app. by the town “to keep the meet-
ing-house clear of dogs, and to kill them if their owners will not
1	We have in preceding pp. made a note of tlie earliest families of this
name, and may further remark that Mr. Edmund Clark was in Sandwich
liable to bear arms 1643. Lt. Thomas, of H. now W. Brewster, b. about
1671, constable 1699, selectman 1707-10, representative 1713 many years,
d. Nov. 18, 1759. By his w. Sarah he had Tlios.; Sarah; Roland 1730;
Susanna; Thankful; Seth May 9, 1709; Isaac Aug. 18, 1710; and Con-
tent 1712. He m. 2d, Patience Hall Dec. 14, 1743. Thomas Jr. m.
Priscilla Paddock Feb. 22, 1721-2, and had Eben. Dec. 7,1725; Sarah 1728;
Thankful 1730; Elisa. 1732; Thos. Ap. 10, 1735; Content 1737 ; and
Josiah Feb 10, 1738-9. Roland, b. 1703, m. Lydia Dillingham Nov. 15,
1724, and had Elisa. 1725; Edw. 1728; Lvdia 1 730; Susanna 1732 ;
Roland 1734; Phebe 1736; Rebecca 1738; Isaac Ap. 27, 1 741 ; Dillingham
July 26, 1743 ; and Jona. Oct. 15, 1746. Seth, b. 1709, m. Iluldah Doane
of E., and had Reliance June 14, 1728; Hannah 1730; Isaac Oct. 12, 1732 ;
Kimbal July 20, 1734, who d. Nov. 20, 1801, as. 86; Seth Sept. 13, 1736;
and Huldali 1738. Isaac m. Kezia Freeman Oct. 24, 1764, and had sons
Dillingham and Isaac, and drs. Scotto had by Mary, his wife, Andrew
Dec. 1, 1707; Scotto Nov. 8, 1709; Mary Ap. 7, 1712, who m. Edm. Free-
man Jr. Oct. 7, 1731; Joseph Jan. 8, 1714-15; Benj., twin to Joseph, who
m. Mehit. Crosby Feb. 22, 1738-9; Lydia 1717; Natli’l. June 19, 1719;
Sarah 1721 who m. Jona. Cobb 1 738 ; Eben. June 2, 1723 ; and Seth June
19, 1726. Andrew, b. 1707, m. Bethia Hall Au^. 20, 1729, and had
Content 1730; David 1 732; Eben. 1734; and Bethia 1739. Scotto Jr.
m. Thankful Crosby Mar. 22, 1732-3,and had Elisha May 14, 1734 ; Reuben
Aug. 1, 1735; Tully Nov. 30, 1736; Mark May 3, 1738; Wm. Jan. 14,
1740; Mercy 1741; Barns. Mar. 9,1743 ; and Scotto Sept. 1745. Nathan-
iel m. Mary North of Be., Oct. 26, 1739. Reuben, b. 1735, m. Jerusha
Freeman, dr. Hatsuld, May 6, 1764, and had Abigail 1769 who m. Sol.
Freeman Esq. about 1793. Nathaniel m. Abigail Hedge of Y. Ap. 27,
1720, who d. Oct. 17, 1732. He perhaps m. 2d. * Had Barn. Feb. 10,
1722-3; Elisha Ap. 24, 1724, d. inf.; Elisha May 22, 1725: Abigl. 1726,
m. Joseph Sears; and Isaac May 15, 1731. Nathaniel m. Lydia Free-
man Sept. 22, 1743; and had Elisa., Winifred, Lydia, Sol., Enoch, Tliacher,
and Mary.
2	Mr. David Nickerson was father of Joseph, now of Boston.ANNALS OF BREWSTER.
757
keep them out; ” also a com. “ to take care of boys and keep
them still in time of meetings;” and, for the performance of
each duty, a compensation of $3 was voted.
The question of a Convention for revising the State Constitu-
tion, came before the town, Aug. 20, and 14 votes were recorded
for the measure, and 3 against it. Gen. Elijah Cobb was chosen
delegate to that convention, Oct. 16.
Hon. Solomon Freeman died Nov. 9, ae. 50.1
In 1821, for the first time, the amount of school-money was in-
creased ; the sum appropriated was $231,68, and continued the
same for several years.
Mr. Sylvanus Lincoln died this year, Aug. 17;2 Mr. Asa
Mayo Sr. d. Dec. 24, 1823, ae. 68.3 Mr. Gorham L. Freeman,
1	The branch from which the lineage of this family runs is that of Maj.
John Freeman, son of Edmund 1st. of S., through William, b. 1663 who
m. Lydia and d. 1687, ae. 24. He had William 1686, who m. Mercy
Pepper Oct. 16, 1711, and d. Mar. 13, 1772 ae. 86. Issue: Mercy Mar. 6,
1712-13, d. inf.; Appliia, d. inf.; Wm. May 12, 1715; Daniel Dec. 30,
1717; Mercy Feb. 10, 1719-20, who m. Job Crocker who was father of Mrs.
(Judge) John Davis of Be. and d. 1803; Apphia Mar. 12, 1721-2, who m.
Eben. Mayo Jan. 20, 1742 and d. 1773 ; Isaac Dec. 22, 1724, whose w. was
Iluth; Jonathan 1728 ; Lydia Feb. 7, 1730-1, d. inf.; Solomon Jan. 30,
1732-3 ; and Simeon Sept 28, 1735. Hon. Solomon, b. 1733, m. Mercy
Foster, dr. Dca. Chillingsworth, Dec. 30,1756, who d. May 4,1760, and 2d,
Desire Doane, dr. Joseph, Oct. 22,1761, who d. Nov. 20,1807, ae. 79. He d.
Mar. 8, 1808, ae. 75, a noted citizen, selectman, representative, senator 20
yrs., and judge Ct. Com. Pleas. Issue: Isaac 1762. d. y.; Sol., d. inf.; Mercy
Aug. 15, 1765, who m. Wm. Crosby and d. Mar. 5, 1824, ae. 59; William
Jan. 10, 1768, who m. Elisa. Sparrow Jan. 5, 1789, and removed to Sandis-
field; Solomon May 22, 1770 ; and Desire June 5, 1774, whom. Benj.
Foster. Hon. Solomon, b. 1770, m. Abigail Clark, dr. Reuben, who d.
Mar. 3, 1851, ae. 82. He d. Nov. 9, 1820. Issue: WilliamNov. 13, 1794;
Jona. Aug. 20, 1796, who m. Mary Winslow, and 2d, Julia Kendrick, and
d. 1832, greatly esteemed. Thankful Mar. 21, 1798, who m. Thos. Dalton
1822, and d. in St. Domingo 1840; Solomon Feb. 17, 1800 who m. Huldah
Crosby, dr. Seth, 1824; Abigail Dec. 24, 1803, who m. Elijah Knowles Dec.
28, l£25; Hannah June 15, 1806, who m. Isaac Doane of O. May 7, 1829,
and d. June 14,1835; Jerusha Aug. 19, 1808, who m. J. G. Ward of
Provincetown and d. 1849 ; Yarnum Feb. 5. 1812, who d. at sea, 1842, a
shipmaster of N. York; and Henry Nov. 30,1817, who m. Mary Bangs and
set. in Middletown, N. Y.,principal of Wallkill Academy. The father was
an estimable citizen, filled many important stations, and was senator at the
time of his decease.
2	Mr. Sylvanus Lincoln was father of the present Mr. Warren Lin-
coln.
3	See Annals of Eastham. Mr. John Mayo, b. 1652, resided in Hing.
1681-1704, and then came here, and was many yrs. representative. He
m. Hannah Freeman, dr. Maj. J no. of E., Ap. 14, 1681 who d. 1726, and
had Hannah Jan. 8, 1682, who m. Judah Hopkins Sr. May 12, 1720 ; John
1683; Sam. July 16, 1684; Mercy Ap. 23, 1688 who m. Nath. Hopkins
1 COO iv'in m758
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
formerly of this town, died the following year in Nice, Italy,
33.1
In 1824, a Universalist Society was gathered here.
In 1825, Dec. 23, a Baptist Society was organized,
and Rev. Otis Wing was its first minister. The suc-
cessions have been numerous.
Thomas Mato Sr. Esq. died Ang. 1, ae. 72; Mr. Lot Gray Sr.
d. Mar. 7;2 and Mr. Seth Freeman Sr., Jane 12.3
Oct. 26, 1694, who m. Joseph Hopkins Ap. 17, 1712; and Elisa. July 16,
1706, who m. Eben Nickerson Oct. 18, 1726. Dea. Joseph, b. 1696, and
d. 1772, m. Abigl. Merrick Feb. 20, 1717-18, and had sons Joseph 1718;
Moses 1721; Thos. 1725 ; Isaiah 1733; and Nath. 1736. Joseph, b. 1718,
m. Sarah Cobb 1741. Moses, b. 1721, m. Phebe Freeman 1 742. Thomas
b. 1725, m. Elisa. Wing 1752, and had Thos. 1753 whom. Hannah Atwood
1785 and d. Aug. 1, 1825; Asa 1755 ; Eben. 1757, who m. Sarah Burgess
1779 ; Isaiah 1758, who m. Hannah Gaboon 1781; and Elnathan 1762, who
m. Patience Lincoln 1786. He was some time a prisoner on board the
noted ship Jersey at N. Y., was discharged sick, and d. on his way home, at
Newport, 1776. Asa, b. 1755, m. Sally Seabury 17 78, and had John 1779,
who m. Lydia Lalia 1804; Jeremiah 1786, the present Gen. Mayo of Br.,
who m. Sarah Crosby 1809, and 2d. Mary P. Clark 1824 ; Ben). 1791, who
m. Hannah Gray; Josiah 1795, who m. Desire Harding; and David 1700,
who m. Hannah Snow, and 2d, Eliza Harding. It would require more
space than we can spare to mention all the branches of the numerous family
of Mayo’s; but we may say further, that William, b. 1654, s. of John who
d. 1706, died 1691 leaving drs. Thankful and Mercy. James, b. 1656, and
d. 1708, m. twice and had 6 s. and 1 dr. Samuel, b. 1658, d. about 1732,
and had, by w. Sarah, 4 drs. Daniel, b. 1664, d. about 1715. and left 2 s.
and 5 drs. Nathaniel, b. 1667, and d. 1716, had a large family. Thomas,
b. 1672, left a family. John, b. 1683, s. of John by w. Hannah Freeman,
m. Susanna Freeman 1712, and had Rebecca Oct. 10, 1713 who m. Josh.
Sears 1732; Susanna 1715 ; Sam. 1717 ; John 1719 ; Mercy 1722; Prince
1723; Benj. 1725; Hannah 1727 ; and Alary 1730. Samuel,b. 1684, had,
by w. Abigl., Rebecca 1714 ; Sam. 1716 ; Thos. 1718 ; Phebe 1721; Abigl.
1723; Reliance 1725, whom. Lem. Eldridge of Y. 1745; Sarah 1727 ; and
Lois 1731, who m. Barn. Howes of Y. 1749.
1	Air. Gorham L. Freeman, b. Aug. 9, 1791, s. of Prince who m.
Abigail Lovell, was of the firm of Freeman, Cobb, & Co. of Boston. His
elder bro. Prince, b. July 7, 1799, m. Phebe Crosby, dr. Seth, and was the
father of Henry Prince 1807, now of N. York.
2	Air. Lot Gray, of H., m. Zervia Harding of C., Alay 29, 1777. Lot
m. Bethia Paddock Oct. 1718. who d. Oct 16, 1728, and 2d, Jane Oris of
Be. 1720, and had John July 27, 1719; Lydia 1721; Alary 1725; Alehit.
1727 ; and Nath. Oct. 5, 1733. AVilliam m. Deborah Sears Oct. 8, 1719,
and had Wm. Feb. 13, 1730-1; Rebecca 1733, who m. Jabez Berry 1744 ;
Thankful 1725; Sarah 1726 ; Thos. Nov. 19, 1728; Anna 1730; Alary
1732; and Deborah 1734. Edward m. Hannah Godfrey July 3, 1727.
Thomas m. Rachel Freeman Oct. 2, 1729, and had Susanna 1732 ; Betty
1 734; Joshua Sept. 18, 1738; Hannah 1739; Sarah 1741 ; Rachel 1744;
Alehit. 1747 ; and Alary 1749.
3	Air. Nathaniel Freeman, b. Alar. 17, 1683, s. of John who m. SarahANNALS OF BREWSTER.
759
In 1826, the appropriation for common schools was $300.
In 1828, the Universalists erected a meeting-house.
The society has, from its organization, had a succession
of supplies too numerous to mention.
Maj. Nathaniel Freeman died this year, Jan.23,ae. 88 also
Col. Jonathan Snow, Mar. 3.2
Merrick, and gr. s. of Dea. Jno., m. Mary Watson, dr. Elkanah of Ply.,
Oct. 24, 1706, and had a dr. July 7, 1711, d. inf.; Prince July 22, 1712;
Mary 1714, who m. Benj. Doane Feb. 17, 1739-40; Lemuel Ap. 18, 1717;
and Nath. Oct. 14, 1719, d. inf. Lemuel m. Desire Sears, and had sons
Lemuel Sept. 22, 1746, whom. Polly Doane, and d. Feb. 2,1825 ; Seth Jr.;
Serenius who m. Thankful Hopkins May 30, 1781; and Isaac Aug. 28,
1759, who m. Jane Clark, dr. Edw., Nov. 28, 1779, and d. Jan. 12, 1823.
Seth m. Temp. Bangs Oct. 14, 1773, and had Temp. Nov. 8, 1775, who m.
Reuben Clark 1797, and 2d. Henry Hall; Pede Mar. 5, 1777, whom. Doct.
Wm. Fessenden 1797 ; Jeruslia Jan. 20, 1779, who m. Sol. Davis July 29,
1804, and 2d. John Baker; Seth Jr. Mar. 24, 1781, who m. Thankful
Foster May 6, 1804, who d. Dec. 20, 1816, 2d. Sophia Wing of Koch. Oct.
l,	1818, who d. May 26, 1842, and 3d. Dolly P. Handy of Roch.; Solomon
Feb. 22, 1783; Benj. Feb. 14, 1787; and Barnard Jan. 2, 1795, whom.
Melinda Doane of O., Ap. 10, 1823.
1	Maj. Freeman, b. Jan. 1, 1738, s. of Prince, of the lineage of Jno., s.
of Maj. Jno., m. Reliance Stone, dr. Nath., who d. May 15, 1833, ae. 92,
and was father of Nath, of New York and of Rowland, who d. Ap. 3, 1821.
Maj. F. was a noted citizen.
2	The descendants of Mr. Nicholas Snow 1st are like snow-flakes for
multitude, and found in most of the Cape towns, as also scattered abroad.
Nicholas, b. 1663, s. of Mark, and gr. s. of Nicholas 1st. was proprietors’
clerk of Harwich, and m. Lydia Snow Ap. 4, 1689. Issue: Jon. Jan. 30,
1691-2 ; Mark Ap. 3, 1695; Nath. Oct. 16, 1697; Josh. Aug. 18, 1700;
Thankful 1702 ; Sarah 1704 ; Phebe 1705 ; and Prince Dec. 26, 1707. Lt.
Prince, b. 1674, s. of Mark, was 12 yrs. selectman of II., and d. July 7,
1742. By his w. Hannah, he had Jabez Nov. 16, 1699; Hannah 1701;
Sam. Dec. 16, 1703, who d. 1730 ; Mercy Nov. 18,1705, whom. Dan. Sears;
Prince Oct. 26, 1707; Jona. Dec. 22,1709 ; David, twin to Jona.; and Mary
1712. Jabez, b. 1699, s. of Prince, was selectman 28 yrs. He had, by
his w. Elisa , sons Jabez, who m. Lois Freeman Nov. 10, 1748; Mark Oct.
13, 1 727; and Sam. Jan. 31, 1735-6; also drs. Jabez, s. of Jabez, m.
Lois Freeman Nov. 10, 1748, and had Sarah and Edmund. Prince 2d., b.
1707, had bv w. Jane, Prince 3d. 1738, and d. 1740. Jonathan, prob. b.
1692, s. of Nicholas, s. of Mark, m. Thankful Freeman, dr. Edm., Oct. 16,
1718, and had Isaac Feb. 14, 1719-20. The families are so numerous that
we will not undertake to define the exact lineal descent of all; but furnish
some additional data which may aid inquiry: Edward, of E., who d. Oct.
17, 1707, m. Sarah Freeman, dr. Jno , and had Thos., Jabez, Rebecca, and
Martha, and was selectman of H. 1713-14. Samuel m. Elisa. Freeman
Oct. 12, 1734, and had a large family, of whom were sons Sam., Treat,
Joseph, and Sparrow. John, selectman 1743, 7 yrs, and d. Feb. 15, 1766,
m.	Hannah Myrick Oct. 13,1721, had sons Enos 1727 ; Jona. 1730; Gideon
1736; Wm. 1738; Eli 1740; and David 1742 ; also drs. Jonathan m.
Sarah Bangs Feb. 24, 1736-7, and had David Mar. 10, 1739-40; Mary
1742; Mehit. 1744; Jona. May 4, 1747 who was a selectman 3 yrs; and760
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1829, Jan. 3, Mr. James Crosby Sr. died; Mr. Nathaniel
Lincoln Sr., Jan. 9; also Mr. Isaac Lincoln Sr., May 4. Mr.
Solomon Clark Sr. d. in 1830, Jan. 11.
In 1831, the appropriation for town schools was $400. The
Univeralist Church was organized this year.
Rev. John Simpkins, who had been minister of the
Congregational Society, from October 19, 1791, was,
at his especial request, induced by feeble health, dis-
missed from his pastoral relation.1
In 1832, Rev. Samuel Williams was ord. Ap. 25, as
successor of Mr. S. in the pastorate.2
Lemuel. Aaron m. Hannah Gage May 11, 1732, and had Sarah 1733 ;
Eben. Jan. 5, 1734-5; and Phebe 1736. Joseph m. Mary Sears Nov. 30,
1738, and bad sons Joseph, Sept. 27, 1740 who was selectman 1779, 7 yrs.,
and town-clerk 1785, 6 yrs., and d. Ap. 19, 1793; Isaac Dec. 21, 1741;
Nathan Nov. 11, 1743 ; and drs. Jabez Jr., who was selectman of E., 2
yrs., m. Thankful Baker of Y., and had Joseph Oct. 6, 1732. Nathaniel
m. Thankful Gage, and had sons Edw. 1733; Thos. 1735; Nath. 1739 ;
Seth ; and Reuben 1748 who was selectman and town-clerk. Seth, s. of
Nath, of O., set. in N. Bridgewater 1783. Ebenezer who was selectman
1790-1, m. Anne Crowell of C. Feb. 13, 1772. Dea. Anthony, of Truro,
b. Feb. 13, 1745, and was town-clerk and treasurer 1799 to 1816, m. Tarn-
son Harding, dr. Lot, and had sons Anthony Dec. 15, 1772; Isaac May
14, 1775 ; Jesse Mar. 12, 1780 ; and Michael Aug. 6, 1791; and daughters.
Michael, of Truro, m. Jane Lombard, dr. Lewis, and had Michael of N.
York.
^ev. Mr. Simpktns, b. 1768, son of Dea. John of Boston, grad. H. C.
1786, continued his ministry here 40 yrs. After resigning the pastoral
office, he made this his home, but d. in Boston, Feb. 28, 1843, se. 75. His
wife was Olive Stone, dr. of Nath. Esq. of this town, who was some time
high sheriff by appointment from the Crown, and gr. dr. of Rev. Nath, the
first minister of H. Mr. Simpkins had children : Caroline ; Nath. S. who
m. Eliza Thacher, dr. of Henry Esq. of Y.; John, who m. Abby Harris, dr.
of Isaac of Boston; Samuel; and Elizabeth who m. Geo. P. Bangs of
Boston. Rev. Mr. Simpkins was greatly respected and beloved. On occa-
sion of his decease, his former parishioners assembled, and united in resolu-
tions expressive of their great regard for their u departed friend who for 40
yrs. labored as their pastor with learning, zeal, and fidelity, and who ever
afterward evinced a fatherly solicitude for the welfare and interests of the
parish. ” An exemplar of purity and benevolence ; his manners exhibiting
the dignity of a former age; his preaching, a peculiar chastity, and even
elegance of style; the impression on all who knew him was not to be easily
effaced. His high position as a scholar and theologian is inferable from the
fact that young men preparing for the ministry resorted to him for instruc-
tion. We find on the church-records the following: “ Sept. 1808, admitted
to full communion, after baptizing him, Phineas Fish; also, Seth F. Swift,
both of Sandwich, but students in divinity here. * Again, in 1811, u Dis-
missed Mr. Phineas Fish to the church inMarshpee over which he expects to
be ordained pastor.”
2Rev. Mr. Williams was from Boston, and grad. H. C. 1824. By m.ANNALS OF BREWSTER.
761
Mr. Jonathan Freeman died, July 25. Mr. William Cros-
by Sr. died in 1833, also Mr. Kenelm Winslow Sr.; and, in 1834,
Mr. William Crosby, Jan. 2, sb. 68; Mr. Elkanah Freeman
Sr., Oct. 2 j1 and Mr. Hatch Freeman, formerly of this town, d.
in Barre, Dec. 7.2
In 1835, it was voted to build a Town-Hall, for town meetings
and other municipal purposes.
In 1836, May 8, Mr. Nathan Winslow died May 8, se. 99.
Mr. Thomas Seabuey Sr. d. June 10, 1837.
In 1838, the amount raised for common free schools, was $450.
Mr. Nathan Crosby Sr. died, Jan. 28, ae. 70.8
with Temperance Mayo, of this town, he had Alice, Temperance, and
Samuel.
*Mr. Elkanah Freeman, b. Mar. 31, 1727, s. of Watson, b. 1704, the
gr. s. of Edmund b. 1680, the gt. gr. s. of Thos. b. 1653, the gt. gt. gr. s.
of Maj. John, and the gt. gt. gt. gr. s. of Edmund of S., m. Abigail Mayo
Oct. 11, 1750, and had Christian, d. y.; Wm., d. y.; Elkanah, bap. Mar.
16, 1760 with the preceding; Barnabas, bap. Nov. 22, 1764 ; Abigail, bap.
July 31,1768 ; and Edmund. He d. about 1777. Elkanah, s. ofElkanah,
m. Mary Myrick Oct. 25,1785, who d. a widow May 25, 1844, sc. 78. Mr.
F., or we might say Capt. F., commanded a privateer in the war of 1812,
was taken prisoner and confined in Dartmoor prison. His children were :
Sarah M. July 28, 1788, who m. Scotto Clark 1808; William Dec. 2, 1789,
who was bap. in 1790 and is entered on the church-records as “Billy; ”
Abigail Nov. 24, 1791, (“bap.” say the church-records “ Ap. 20, 1792,
Friday morning, in private at the request of her parents, by reason of
apprehended approaching dissolution ;” and yet she survived, and) m. Edm.
Mayo Jr. of Brookfield 1819; Pollv Jan. 4,1794; Elkanah Mar. 23, 1795;
Barna. Dec. 27, 1796, d. Oct. 15, 1815; Harriet Jan. 2, 1799, whom. Edw.
D. Winslow 1824 ; Caroline Feb. 3, 1801, whom. Blair of Warren ; Sophia,
twin to Caroline; Frederick Dec. 10, 1803, who m. A. P. Cobb, dr. Hon.
Elijah ; and Edmund May 20, 1806, who m Melitta Morse, dr. Calvin, of
Ware, May 20, 1829. William, b. 1789, m. Elisa. Shepherd of Walpole;
issue: William F., Mary E., Geo. A., Sarah M., and Bradford.
2Mr. Hatch Freeman, b. 1 793, s. of Haskell b. 1761,s.of Dea. Edmund,
m. Matilda (Locke) Nash Dec. 7, 1823, and had Geo. E. now of Boston,
who m. Bethia Kendrick of Long Island ; Wm. H.; Mary J. ; and Caroline
R.
3 The impression we find existing that the ancestor of this family was Tully
and that he came from England, is, we think, incorrect. We have noticed,
pp. 213 and 365, the ancestor, namely, Rev. Thomas Crosby, s. of Simon
of* Cambridge, as also Joseph, 3d son, and Eben’r, 7th son of Rev. Thos.
His eldest son, Thomas, b. 1663 in E., has been supposed to be Dea. Thos.,
who d. 1731. The 2d s. Simon, b. 1665, who d. Jan. 19,1718, in E., m. Mary
Nickerson Aug. 27, 1691, and had Sam’l. July 11, 1692; Elisa. 1693 who
m. Nathan’l. Rogers ; Thos.; Nath’l.; John, bap. 1 701; Hannah, bap. 1703 ;
Dan. 1705; Eben’r.; Increase; Sarah; Mary; Anne; Mercy, 1717; and
Moses. John, b. 1672, and d. May 25, 1714, sc. 43, in 11., had, by w.
Hannah, Thos. 3d, Ap. 17, 1704; Joria. Nov. 2,1 705; John Aug. 14,1707;
David Ap. 13, 1709 ; Joshua Aug. 4, 1712 ; and Abila (son) Dec. 3, 1714.
William, b. 1673, m. wid. Mercy Hinckley Ap. 26,1711, and had Thank-
ful 1714; Tully Jan. 11, 1715-16; Mehit. 1718; William Jan. 13, 1719-20 ^
VOL. ii.	96762
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1839, the appropriation for common schools was increased
to $800. Mr. Joshua Freeman Sr. died June 24.
In 1842, Benjamin Berry Esq. died, Sept. 15; Mr. Joseph
Smith died, Nov. 10 ;1 and Mr. Elkanah Bangs, Dec. 26.2
Nathan Mar. 20,1722-3 ; Seth Jan. 15, 1724-5 ; and Huldah 1726. Elea-
zar, b. 1680, youngest s. of Rev. Thos., m. Patience Freeman, dr. Jno. of
E., Oct. 24, 1706, and had Zezia 1708; Rebecca 1709, who m. Eben.
Hopkins ; Eleazar July 5,1711; Sylv’s. Nov. 15,1712; Phebe 1714; Sarah
1716; Isaac Oct. 18, 1719; Mary 1722; Sarah 1726 ; Pat. 1728; and
Eunice 1730. Samuel, b. 1692, s. of Simon of E., had, by w. Ruth,
Susanna 1719; Simeon 1722; Ruth 1724 ; Levi 1729; Increase 1732;
Thankful 1734; and Rebecca 1738. Thomas, b. 1704, s. of Jno., m. Elisa.
Hopkins Aug. 9, 1733, and had Betliia 1734; Phebe 1736 ; Hannah 1739 ;
Elisa. 1741; Benj. Aug. 9, 1744; Jeremiah Feb. 11, 1746 ; Enoch Dec.
25,1749; and Thos. Feb. 3, 1752. Joshua, b. 1712, s. of Jno., m. Lydia
Hopkins Aug. 2, 1733, and had Nathan 1734; Reuben 1736; Josh. 1737 ;
Theoda 1739; and Elijah 1742. John, b. 1707, s. of John, had, by w. Mary,
John 1735 ; Ilatsuld 1738; and Mary 1741. David, b. 1709, s. of Jno. m.
Reliance Hopkins June 19, 1735, and had David 1737; Susanna 1740;
Reliance 1742; and Abner 1744. Jonathan, prob. b. 1705, s. of Jno.,
had, by w. Hannah, Benj. 1734; Jona. 1735, d. inf.; and Jona. 1738. Dan-
iel, prob. s. of Simon, m. Ruth Cole of E., Aug. 28, 1731. James, lineage
unknown, of H., m. when aged, Mary Freeman who was b. 1738. A
Thomas m. Mary Crosby of II. Oct. 6, 1725. An Eleazar m. Hester
Ryder of C. 1733. Eleazar Jr., b. 1711, s. of Eleazar, m. Lydia Crosby
Oct. 20, 1735, and had Eleazar 1736 ; Keziah 1739 ; Watson 1741; Rebecca
and Isaac, gem., 1744: Reuben 1747; Lydia 1749; and Richard 1752.
Thomas, prob. s. of Simon, had, by w. Experience, Simon 1724; Elisa. 1725;
Mary 1727; Hope 1730 ; Peter 1733; Tim. 1736 ; Ezra 1738. Nathaniel,
prob. s. of Simon, m. Elisa. Sears 1726, and 2d, Esther Young 1732, and
had Moses 1727; Nath. 1733; Elisa. 1734; Desire 1737 : Asenath 1738;
Isaiah 1744 ; and Philip 1747. Tully, b. 1716, s. of Wm. and Mercy, m.
Hannah Hall Feb. 22, 1738-9, and had William. William, prob. b. i 720,
s. of Wm., was father of Josiah b Mar. 5,1744 ; and Heman 1747. Josiah
b. 1744, m. Betsy Hopkins, dr. Steph., and had Wm. 1766, and Nathan Oct.
5, 1768. William, b. 1766, m. Mercy Freeman, dr. of Sol. Esq., and d.
Jan. 2, 1834. They had Betsy 1792; Jona. F. 1794; Ruth F. 1798 ; and
Henry 1801. Nathan, b. 1768,m. Anna Pinkham, dr. of Theophilus, and
had Josiah 1792, who d. 1835 ; Nathan 1793, who m. Cath. Nickerson, dr. of
Ensign of C; Elijah C. 1796, whod. 1819 ; Rowland F. 1799, who m. Sally
Nickerson; Abigl. 1801, whom. Geo. W. Higgins; Albert 1804; Theoph.
1806, who d. at Chicago; and Isaac 1809, who m. Eunice Nickerson, and
had Matilda who m. Sam. M. Nickerson of Chicago; and Isaac Francis of
Chicago. Capt. Jonathan F., b. 1794, m. Lucinda Hopkins, dr. of Row-
land. Issue : Wm. and Rowland.
1	Mr. Smith came to this town from Barre; and was the schoolmaster
here many years, much noted. His few surviving pupils do him the justice
to say that he was successful in making the dullest learn, and they remem-
ber too that
“ Ferula disciplinae sceptrum erat. ”
2	We suppose the above was he who m. Sally Crosby 1791, and was s. of
Elkanah b. Mar. 31, 1732, a soldier of the Revolution, who m. Susanna
Dillingham. Issue: Dillingham Oct. 19, 1796; Elkanah Jan. 24, 1798;
Abraham Dec. 19,1800; Olive 1803; Elisha Oct. 7, 1805; Susanna 1807 ;
Freeman Nov. 1, 1809 ; and Henry Dec. 4, 1811.ANNALS OF BREWSTER.
763
In 1844, Rev. Samuel Williams resigned his position
as pastor of the Cong. Society. Joseph Sampson, M. D.,
a physician of prominence, died this year, Nov. 4, se.
60.1
In 1845, Rev. James L. Stone was ordained pastor in
place of Mr. Williams; and, in 1847, Nov. 13, was suc-
ceeded by Rev. F. R. Newell.3
In 1848, the appropriation for schools continued to be $800, as
also the succeeding year. Mr. Benjamin Foster died Mar. 10,
se. 76; and Gen. Elijah Cobb, Nov. 21, se. 81.3
1	Doct. Sampson m. Deborah, dr. of Gen. Elijah Cobb.
2	Rev. Mr. Newell continued here five years, and then removed to
Littleton. He m. Mary D. Berry, dr. Capt. Benj. F., of this town.
3	Gen. Elijah Cobb, b. July 4, 1768, was in direct descent from elder
Henry who came to Ply in. 1629, and d. 1679 ; and who, by his 2d m. i. e. with
Sarah Hinckley, dr. Sam. 1649, had Samuel, 5th son, b. Oct. 12, 1654.
He m. Elisa. Taylor Dec. 20,1680, and d. in Be. Dec. 7, 1727, se. 73. Issue :
Sarah Aug. 20, 1681, whom Benj. Bearse Feb. 4, 1701-2; Thos. June 1,
1683; Elisa. 1685, who m. Eben. Bearse ; Henry Feb. 17.1687 ; Sam’l.
Sept. 10, 1691 whom. Hannah Cole 1725; Mehit., twin to Sam., whom.
Nathan Taylor 1715; Experience June 8, 1692, who m. Joshua Taylor;
Jona. Dec. 25, 1694 ; Eleazai Jan. 14, 1696, who m. Reliance Paine Oct.
18, 1724; and Lydia Dec. 8, 1699 who m. Eben. Scudder. Jonathan, b.
1694, set. in H., and m. Sarah Hopkins, dr. Stephen Jr. who was son of
Steph. the s. of Giles the s of Steph. the piglrim, Oct. 20, 1715. Issue:
Jona. 1718; Benj. 1726, whom. BethiaHomer; Sam. 1728; Elkanah 1731;
Eleazar 1734, who m. Kezia Crosby; and Elisa. 1738, who m. Crosby. Jona-
than, b. 1718, s. of Jona. m. a dr. of Scotto Clark, 1738, and d. 1773.
Issue: Elijah 1739, lost at sea; Scotto 1741 ; Isaac 1745, who m. Hannah
Freeman, dr. Prince; John 1748; Seth 1751; Mary 1753, who m. Jona.
Gray; Sally 1755, whom. Seth Foster; Eikanah• 1757, wdio m. Tempo.
Foster; Hannah who m. Wm. Peaks of E.; and Betsy who m. Azariah
Smith. Scotto, b. 1741, s. of Jona.,m. Mercy Freeman only dr. of Barns,
of E. and whose mother was Mary Stone, and d. 1774. Issue: Huldah
1763, whom. Col. Jona. Snow; Benna 1766 whom. Elisa. Snow; Elijah
July 4, 1768 ; Reliance 1771, who m. Philip Burrell; Judith 1773, who m.
Benj. Crosby; and Sully 1774, who d. 1784. Gen. Elijah, the subject of
this note, b. 1768, m. Mary Pinkham, dr. of Theophilus who m. Abigail dr.
of Prince Freeman who m. Abigl. Dillingham gr. dr. of the elder John.
Issue: Deborah R. Jan. 28, 1794, who m. Doct. Jos. Sampson Mar. 30, 1815,
and 2d. Josiah Sampson Esq.; Elijah June 27, 1 799; Freeman June 18,
1805 ; Mary P. July 19, 1807, who m. Rev. Theo. K. Taylor; Ann P. Julj
8,1809, who m. Fred. Freeman ; and Albert Jan. 23, 1814, who d. at Selma,
Ala., 1832. Elijah Esq., b. 1799, andd. Sept. 2, 1861, m. Caroline Snow
dr. Sylvs. Issue : Caroline Olivia 1826 ; Elijah W. 1827, whom. Mercy R.
Jackson, dr. of Dan. of Ply.; Helen 1829, who in. Jas. A. Dugan of Boston ;
Mercy L. 1833; Annette Therese 1835; Alfred S. 1836; and Emily C.
1840. Freeman, b. 1805, m. Hannah S. Crosby, and had Freeman who
m. Annette Theresa Cobb, dr. Elijah Esq., whose business is in Boston and
whose summer residence is in Br., and to whose courtesy we are indebted764
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1849, Mr. Nathaniel Winslow died, Dec. 27, ae. 77.1
In 1850, the appropriation for schools was increased to $2000.
In 1852, Rev. Nathaniel 0. Chaffe was engaged as
a supply for the Cong. Society ; but remained only a
brief period. The brevity of the parochial tenure
having become here, as elsewhere, a matter of expec-
tation, we shall omit any further mention of ecclesias-
for the likeness of his gr. father Gen. Elijah Cobb, which appears on the
opposite page. Gen. and Hon. Elijah Cobb was a prominent citizen. He
commenced his career at sea at the early age of 12 yrs., and was soon in
command of a ship which was captured and carried to France during the
Fr. Revolution. He remained some time in Paris seeking payment for the
cargo which had been appropriated by the Fr. government. This he obtained
by a personal interview with the notorious Robespierre. He resided some
time m Hamburgh ; was in command of a ship in the war of 1812; was
captured and some time a prisoner. He was long known as a military man;
became member of the Mass. Senate, and held many civil offices. He d.
ae. 81, highly venerated and esteemed.
1 See Vol. I. 302. Mr. Kenelm Winslow b. May 3, 1599 and bap. the
same day, s. of Edw. and Magdalen of Droitwich, Worcestershire, England,
came over with his bro. Josiah 1629, and d. at Salem whilst on a visit there
Sept. 12, 1672. He resided at Marshfield. By m. with Eleanor Adams,
wid. of Jno. of Ply. 1G34, who d. Dec. 5, 1681, a*. 83, he had Kenelm 1635;
Elleanor 1637, who m. Sam. Baker Dec. 29, 1656 ; Natli’l. 1639 ; and Job
1641 who went to Swansey. Kenelm, b. 1635, “removed to Cape Cod,
and set. in Harwich. ” He is mentioned in the Y. records 1668, Harwich
then being within the constablerick of Y. He d. Nov. 4, 1715. He m. 1st,
his cousin Mercy Worden whod. Sept. 22, 1688, ae. 48, and 2d, Bethia Hall
Jan. 5, 1689-90. He had sons, Kenelm, bap. Aug. 9, 1668; Josiah July 3,
1670; Thos. Mar. 3, 16 72-3 ; Sam’l. who went to Rocli.; Edward Jan. 30,
1680; and prob. Seth. Kenelm who m. Zervia Rider S^pt. 14, 1722,and
had Zervia Sept. 11, 1723 who m. Eben. Crocker Jr. of Be.; John Ap. 6,
1727, d. inf.; John June 16, 1728 ; Isaac Sept. 14,1729, d. inf. ; Isaac Feb.
6, 1730-1, d. inf.; Isaac Mar. 18, 1731-2, d. inf.; Bethia May 23, 1738, who
m. Thos. Snow 3d ; Phebe July 28, 1735, who prob. m. Dan’l. Crocker;
Nathan Mar. 14,1736-7; Sarah May 25, 1738, who m. Marston; Mary,
twin to Sarah, m. Eben. Clapp; and Joshua Nov. 22, 1740. Kenelm, b.
1725, who m. Mary (Hopkins) Sparrow, wid. of Isaac of O., b. Mar. 20,
1732-3, had Kenelm, who m. twice, no issue, and d. 1833 ; Isaac, father of
Kenelm, Wm., and Reuben; Abraham d. inf.; Abraham, father of Elisha
D., Roland C., and of Mrs. Jos. Nickerson ; Nath’l. wfio d. Dee. 27, 1849,
se. 77, father of Nat’l.; and drs. Rebecca, Mary, and Zervia. Kenelm m.
Betsy Freeman, dr. Jno., Jan. 11, 1787. Thomas m. Meliit. Winslow of
Roch. 1722, and had Thomas Fob. 29, 1723-4 ; Edw. Mar. 4, 1725-6 ; Bethia
1729, d. inf.; Bethia 1731, d. inf.; Isaac 1 733, d. inf.; Sarah 1 736, d. inf.;
Sarah 1737, d. inf.; Isaac 1738, d. inf.; Zenas 1740, d. inf.; Josiah 1744,
d. inf.; Joshua 1738, d. inf.; and Zenas Oct. 30, 1741. Seth m. Thankful
Sears Jan. 15, 1735-6, whod. 1 736, and 2d, Priscilla Freeman 1737. Issue:
Nath’l. June 29, 1736, d. inf.; Nath’l. Feb. 16, 1738-9 ; Thankful 1741, d.
inf.; Thankful 1743, d. inf.; Thankful Mav 12, 1745; and Mnrv Aug. 8,
1747.ANNALS OF BREWSTER.
765
tical changes in this society. The Universalists erected
a new meeting-house this year.
Mr. John Freeman died Feb. 10, 1853, ae. 85.1
In 1855, Jan. 4, Mr. Isaac Foster died, ae. 85.3
lMr. Benjamin Freeman, of H., b. 1685, s. of John, who m. Sarah
Merrick 1672, and gr. s. of Maj. John, m. Temperance Dimmick of Be.
1709, and had Desire Ap. 20, 1711, who m. Sam. Parker of Be. 1732;
Bebecca Mar. 27, 1713, whom. Joseph Parker of F. 1734; Temper. Oct.
1715, who m. Dea. Elisha Foster of Scit. 1739; Benj. Jan. 10, 1717-18;
Sarah Mar. 11, 1719-20, who m. Christian Remick of E. 1752 ; Fear Mar.
23, 1721-2, who m. Daniel Sears of C. 1745; Isaac 1727, d. y.; John July
29, 1729; and Mehit. Nov. 4, 1731, who m. Doct. Wm. Fessenden. Benja-
min, b. 1718, m. Sarah Dillingham, dr. Jno., Mar. 15,1737-8, and was father
of Thankful, 1741, who m. Watson Freeman 1762. John, b. 1729, 2d. son
of Benj., m. Thankful Foster Oct. 23, 1755, 2d. Sarah Freeman, dr. of
Hatsel of H., Nov. 15, 1758, and 3d. Tamzen Freeman, dr. of Jno. of O.,
and d. 1813. He had Hatsuld, John 1768, Thankful, Betsey whom. Kenelm
Winslow 1787, and Sarah. John, b. 1768, and d. 1853, s. of Jno., m. Bethiah
Crowell Dec. 26, 1793, and had Hatsuld Nov. 10, 1794, lost at sea Jan. 23,
1813; Nathan Ap. 9, 1796, who d. 1812: Betsey Feb. 12, 1798, who m.
Lewis Crowell of Y. 1817, whod. Ap. 9,1848,and 2d. David K. Aiken 1849;
John Mar. 25, 1800, who m. Ruth Sears 1825; Tamzen Mar. 9, 1802, who
m. 1st. Jona. Sears and 2d. Prince Gifford; Deborah Ap. 15, 1804, whom.
Elisha Foster 1823 ; Joshua Dec. 12,1806, whom. Hannah B. Snow ; Benj.
Dec. 24, 1808, whom. Betsey S. Winslow 1833; Lurana Nov. 14, 1811,
who m. Nathan Winslow; Bethia Feb. 20, 1814, who d. 1851; and Sarah
Aug. 12, 1818, who m. Albert P. Clark 1849.
2Mr. Isaac Foster, b. 1770, was of the Chillingsworth lineage. Dea.
John, who set. in Marshfield, and d. June 13, 1732, ae. 90, prob. s. of Thos.
of Weymouth, and b. Oct. 7, 1642, m. Mary Chillingsworth, dr. of Thos.
and Joanna, whod. Sept. 25, 1702, and 2d. Sarah Thomas who d. 1731, ae.
85. Issue : Elisa. Sept. 24,1664, who m. Wm. Carver 1683 ; John 1666, who
set. in Ply. ; Josiah 1669, who set. in Pembroke; Mary 1671, who m. John
Hatch of M.; Joseph 1674, who went to Sandwich; Sarah 1677 ; Chillings-
worth June 11, 1680, who set. in Harwich about 1699 ; James 1683, d. inf.;
Thos. 1686, who was town clerk of M., also deacon; and Deborah 1691.
Chillingsworth, b. 1680, and d. 1764, ae. 85, was some time rep. of H.
He m. Mercy Freeman, dr of Jno. of E., who d. July 7, 1720, 2d. widow
Susanna Sears Aug. 10,1721, who d. Dec. 7, 1730, and also had a 3d. wife
without issue. Issue, by 1st. and 2d. m., James Jan. 21, 1705, who set. in
Dart.; Chillingsworth Dec. 25, 1707 ; Mary 1709, whom. David Paddock
of Y. 1727; Thos. Mar. 15, 1711-12; Nathan June 10, 1715, who m. Sarah
Lincoln June 14, ±739; Isaac June 17, 1718 ; Mercy Mar. 30, 1720, d. inf.;
Mercy July 29, 1722; Nath’l. Ap. 17, 1725; and Jerusha Dec. 9, 1727.
Chillingsworth Jr., some time rep., m. Mercy Winslow, dr. Edward of
Roch., Oct. 10, 1730, and 2d. Ruth Sears Dec. 7, 1731. Issue: Thankful
June 14,1733 who m. Jno. Freeman Oct. 23, 1755 ; Mercy May 2, 1735 ;
Chillingsworth July 17, 1737, who m. Sarah Freeman 1757 ; Mehit. Ap. 18,
1746 ; and Sarah Nov. 25, 1747. Thomas, b. 1712, m. Mary Hopkins
June 11, 1734, and had Joseph Mar. 27,1735 ; Thos. June 22,1736 ; James
Feb. 18, 1737-8; and Mary July 18, 1740. Isaac, b. 1718, m. Hannah
Sears Nov. 2, 1738, and had Isaac May 29, 1739; Sam. May 31, 1741;
David Mar. 24, 1743; Lemuel Feb. 24, 1744; Seth 1747 ; Hannah 1749,766
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
In 1860, Feb. 2, Rev. Enoch Pratt died, ae. 78;1 and Mr.
Benjamin Bangs, formerly of this town, d. in Boston, June 18,
ae. 76.2
In 1861, Sept. 2, Mr. Elijah Cobb died, ae. 62;3 and, Nov. 15,
Capt. Seth Freeman, formerly of this town, ae. 81.
Rev. Joseph Barbour was this year received as minis-
ter of the Baptist Society.
In 1862, May 27, Mr. Albert Mayo died, ae. 57; and Mr.
Freeman Smalley, Dec. 10, ae. 69. Capt. Elkanah Bangs d.
Aug. 28,1863, ae. 80.4
who m. Zoheth Snow; Nath’l. Ap. 8,1751 ; Thos.; and Nath’l. Isaac, b.
1739, m. Eunice Freeman June 10, 1762, and had Lemuel Aug. 15, 1765;
Hannah 1767, whom. Zoheth Snow; Eunice 1769; Isaac Oct. 23, 1770;
Benj. Sept. 27, 1772; Sam. Feb. 26, 1775, who m. Eunice Clark; and
Sarah May 26, 1777, who m. Theophilus Burge. David, b. 1743, m. Phebe
Freeman Nov. 2, 1768. Benjamin, b. 17 72, m. Desire Freeman, dr. Sol.
Esq., and d. Mar. 18, 1848. Issue: Desire May 14, 1800, who m. Israel
Lincoln and 2d. Jona. Thacher. Isaac, b. 1770, and d. Jan. 4, 1855, m.
Sarah Thacher, dr. Sam., and had Isaac 1798, d. y.; Sam. 1800, d. y.;
Sarah T. 1802; Isaac 1806, who d. in N. Orleans 1834; Lucy 1814;
Julia 1817 ; Thacher 1319 ; and Geo. F. 1821.
lRev. Mr. Pratt, 27 yrs. pastor at W. Barnstable, ord. 1807, and retir-
ing in 1735, m. 2d. and 3d. in this town and long resided here, supplying,
temporarily, destitute churches until near the close of a.useful life, and per-
forming agencies for the American Bible Society. He also wrote a history
of Eastham, Wellfleet, and Orleans, pub. 1844. Of an amiable, cheerful,
and affectionate disposition, and of respectable talents — faithful in his
ministry, he was much esteemed. During the 27 years of his pastorate at
Barnstable, he received to church communion 380 persons, and bap. 292.
2	Mr. Benj. Bangs, b. Dec. 10, 1783, s. of Benj. of this town, gr. s. of
Benj. Esq. and gt. gr. s. of Edward, was a noted merchant, highly es-
teemed.
3	Elijah Cobb Esq., b. 1799, removed to Boston young, engaged in
mercantile pursuits, and was much esteemed for his many estimable quali-
ties. He returned to his farm in this town in 1855, and died much lament-
ed. We here resume the Cobb genealogy embracing other branches of the
family. Benjamin, b. 1726, s. of Jona. by Sarah Hopkins, m. Bethia
Homer and had Benj.; Sam. a physician, who m. Inches of Boston; and
Sarah who m. Witherel. Eleazar, b. 1734, s. of Jona., m. Kezia Crosby,
and had Sam. who d. in N. Carolina; Mercy who m. Elkanah Crosby;
Lydia who m. Sam. Linnell of O.; Eleazar June 4,1786, who m. Margaret
Wyer, and d. 1812 ; Kezia, whom. Sylv’s. Lincoln; Rebecca, whom. Capt.
Nath’l. Lincoln; Abigail; and Eunice, who m. Allen Vincent. Elkanah,
b. 1757, s. of Jona., m. Tempe. Foster and set. in E. Issue: Scotto Oct.
2, 1784, whom. Phebe Knowles, dr. Elijah of E.; Nathan, who removed to
Virginia ; Reliance, who m. Timo. Rogers; Phebe; and Betsy, who m. Capt.
Higgins of E.
4	Capt. Elkanah Bangs, b. July 29, 1783, s. of Capt. Dean, s. of
Elkanah, had been many years a prominent merchant, at the head of the
firm of E. Bangs & Son, in Boston, He m. Reliance F. Berry, dr. Benj.,
and was bro. of Dean Esq. whom. Rebecca Winslow, and of Edward who
d. 1832.ANNALS OF BREWSTER.
767
As we conclude these Annals of a town whose career
dates back but three-score years, in nearly all which
time we have been familiar with its progress, we cannot
but again recur to the fact that its history really
reaches back nearly two centuries, and that during the
much larger portion of the period the history of this
and the parent town was one. We recur to the long
past with pleasant impressions and with reverence for
the primitive days and the early settlers of Cape Cod
generally. The age in which we live is too far advanced
in population and arts, to expect, if we might desire,
the simplicity of early times to survive in all its
purity. We have never claimed for the denizens of
the Cape towns that they were entirely free from the
infirmities of human nature, for they were men ; but,
after all that the most rigid criticism may allege, we
may safely challenge that no countries or peoples ever
exhibited a scene of happiness, innocence, peace, thrift,
and patriotism, more to be admired than was witnessed
here during the first century and a half of their social
existence. If the manners of the age were simple,
they were not rough; nor was the rusticity of the less
influential devoid of that polish which the few who
gave tone to society, unassuming and unenvied, diffused
among the masses. Good feeling was not checked by
avarice and pride; friendships were not broken by ambi-
tion and intrigue; virtue was reverenced; its promoters
and public benefactors were venerated. If aught re-
mains of ancient principles and habits, our gratitude
may well be shown by preserving the memory of our
ancestry as a subject of pride to their descendants and
of admiration to succeeding generations.
In reference to national affairs, if we cannot re-
cord what it were indeed a privilege to announce, —
that rebellion is subdued,—we gladly recognize the fact763
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
that good progress in this direction has been made.
Even foreign powers, whose attitude has been selfishly
hostile, give signs of returning justice; and the inevi-
table iysue of the conflict is, we trust, to demonstrate
to the world, — what the Cape-Cod-Harbor compact
foreshowed,—that an enlightened and virtuous De-
mocracy is the sure foundation of Government, and
that education and freedom are the true sources of the
greatness and happiness of a people.
REPRESENTATIVES.
xrs.
1803. Isaac	Clark,	11.
1809. Elijal	Cotb,	8.
1821. Isaac	A>st:r,	2.
1827.	Benj.	Berry,	4.
1830.	Jereibiah 1*1 ayo,	2.
x rs.
1834.	Albert P. Clark,	5.
1835.	Nath’l Crosby,	2.
1837.	Solo. Freeman,	2.
1838.	Josiah Foster,	2.
1840.	Freeman Foster,	2.
1841. Benj . Paine,	4.
1844. Elijah Cobb,	1.
1848.	Wins’w L. Knowles, 1.
1849.	Josiah Seabury,	4.
1856.	Tully Crosby,	1.
SELECTMEN.
xrs.
1803. Jona. Snow,	6.
“ Anthony Gray,	2.
“ Kenelm Winslow,	3.
1805.	Joaa. Berry,	2.
1806.	Joseph Sears,	3.
1807.	Joseph Snow,	2.
1809. David Foster,	2.
“ Elijah Cobb,	2.
“ Abr’m Winslow,	3.
1811.	Isaac Clark,	8.
“ Solo. Freeman,	4.
1812.	Thos. Seabury,	1.
1813.	Wm. Crosby,	14.
“ David Nickerson,	3.
1816. Benj Berry,	15.
1819. Joseph Smith,	9.
xrs.
1803. Svlvanus Stone,	2.
, 1805. Joseph Smith.	13
1818. Benj. Foster,	6.
1824. Elijah Cobb,	10.
Yrs.
1825. Joseph Crocker, 2.
1827.	Dean Bang’s,	5.
1828.	Isaac Foster,	1.
“ Lewis Howes,	1.
1829.	Jona. Freeman,	1.
1831.	Franklin Hopkins, 4.
1832.	Kenelm Winslow, 3.
1833.	Rich’d Harding, 5.
1834.	Samuel Myrick,	8.
1835.	Nathan Sears,	4.
1839.	Eben. Higgins,	8.
“ Anthony Smalley, 10.
1840.	Theodore Berry, 1.
1844. Jeremiah Mayo, 11.
“ Joshua Clark,	7.
TREASURERS.
Yrs.
1828. Jeremiah Mayo,	4.
1831.	Benj. Mayo,	1.
1832.	Freeman Mayo,	2.
1840. David Mayo,	8
xrs.
1848.	Dean Bangs,	2.
1849.	David Mayo,	2.
1850.	Nathan Winslow, 5.
1851.	Solo. Freeman, 6.
1854.	Jno. Freeman, 2.
1855.	Elisha Crocker, 3.
1857.	Bangs Pepper, 1.
1858.	Constant Sears, 1.
“ Benj. Paine,	1.
1859.	Benj. Freeman, 1.
“ Tully Crosby,	3.
1860.	Rodolphus McLoud, 2.
1861.	Zoheth Snow,	1.
1862.	Wm. Winslow, 2.
“ Charles S. Foster, 2.
X aP«
1848. Dean Bangs,	2.
1850.	Sam’l H. Gould,* 11.
1861. Charles S. Foster, 3.
CLERKS.
1803. Sylvanus Stone,
1805. Joseph Smith,
1818. Benj. Foster,
1824. Elijah Cobb,
Yrs.
13.
6.
11.
1828. Jeremiah Mayo,
1831.	Benj. Mayo,
1832.	Freeman Mayo,
1840. David Mayo,
rs.	xrs.
4.	1848.	Dean Bangs,	2.
1.	1850.	Sam’l H. Gould,	11.
1.	1861.	Charles S. Foster,	3.
* Sam’l H. Gould, m. d., set. here 1844, from Ipswich, of the Topsham family of
Gould.ADDENDA,
Mr. Ebenezer Nickerson, b. Aug. 17, 1768, s. of Seth,
and long resident in Provincetown, died in Waltham,
Oct. 21, 1855, se. 87.1
'In the Annals of Provincetown, p. 647, misled by the statement of
another, we have said that his decease occurred in 1858. Mr. Ebenezer
Nickerson was emphatically a representative man,— one who, with limited
advantages of early education, achieved not only a prominence among busi-
ness men and a large estate, but, what is better, established a reputation for
probity and moral worth that is justly the pride of his numerous family.
The likeness, which we present on the opposite page, has been furnished at
our request, by his family, through the courtesy of his son, Sereno D. We
have noticed the lineage of Mr. N. in preceding pages, from William 1st.,
Nicholas, William 2d. who m. Mary Snow 1691, and Ebenezer of H.
who m. Elizabeth Mayo of C. and had Seth Oct. 21, 1737. The last two,
father and son, removed from Chatham to Provincetown in 1751 when the
son was about 14 years old, and tradition says “the fourth house then stand-
ing in the latter place, was erected by the father.” Seth m. Mary Smith
of C. March 19, 1761, and their second son, Ebenezer, the subject of this
sketch, wasb. Aug. 17, 1768. Hem. 1st. Salome Collins, dr. of Cyrenius
of C., and 2d. Eudoxa White of Phillipston, and had a large family the
eldest of whom was Eunice b. Aug. 30, 1794. Habits of self-reliance,
industry, and economy were early fixed, — as is suggested by his own remark,
in old age, that he had “ from childhood paid his own way; ” and, with the
capital he had acquired in P., he established himself in mercantile business
in Boston in the year 1800. The war of 1812 was disastrous to his fortune ;
so that, stripped of his hard-earned wealth, and, at middle age, surrounded
by a young family, — without capital, but with a clear conscience and stout
heart, he “ resolved to start anew in the world.” It is not strange that, having
shared in the trials of the Revolutionary period in early youth, and been
despoiled of his property by subsequent hostilities of England, he should
have retained through life intense dislike of “ the British,” believing their
national trait to be summed up in the apothegm,
‘ All form is formless, order orderless,
Save what is apposite to England’s love.”
Forty years he again engaged actively and prosperously in business, — most
of the time on Long Wharf; and was one of the marked characters of the
VOL. ii. 97	(769)770
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Capt. Hezekiah Freeman, formerly of Harwich, b.
Sept. 3,1740, s. of Samuel, died at Norwich, Ct., Oct.
13,1816, se. 76.1 He, with very many others from the
Cape, was of those successively emigrating, not as
refugees, but most of them prior to the Revolution,
attracted by the advantageous openings in Nova Scotia.
Among them were those of the names of Annis, Atkins,
Bea, Brown, Cobb, Cahoon, Cole, Collins, Covel, Dennis,
Dexter, Foster, Godfrey, Gorham, Harlow, Hopkins,
Knowles, Lombard, Loveland, Nickerson, Parker, Pope,
Rogers, Shaw, Smith, Snow, Stewart, Taylor, Tupper,
Wright, and Young. Other Cape names might increase
the list; but, with the preceding families the Freemans
city. His reminiscences of early days engaged attentive listeners ; his old-
fashioned style of dress attracted notice; and his almost fastidious candor,
truthfulness, and honesty commanded the confidence and respect of all who
knew him. Perhaps few private citizens were more generally known, or,
indeed, more proverbially esteemed as an upright, honest man, throughout
New England. His declining years were passed in Waltham where, at more
than four-score and seven days, he “fell asleep”—having scarcely known
sickness during that long period. “ The memory of the just is blessed.”
1 Mr. Thomas Freeman, b. in Eastham, Oct. 12, 1676, s. of Dea. Thomas
b. 1653, s. of Maj. John, and gr. s. of Edmund of S., m. 1st. Bathsheba
Mayo, dr. Nath., and 2d. Mary Smith Oct. 17, 1707. He d. Mar. 22,
1716-17. Issue: Thos. Sept. 13, 1708; Jas. Oct. 9,1710; Bathsheba Mar.
22, 1713; and Samuel Aug. 8, 1715. Samuel, b. 1715, m. 1st, Margaret,
2d, Mary, and had issue: Sam. Ap. 9,1736, who m. Mary Snow 1756; Bath-
sheba 1738 ; Hezekiah Sept. 3, 1740, mentioned above, whose wid. Martha
d. in Norwich Aug. 11, 1831, ae. 90; Smith June 3, 1743 ; Joseph Nov. 5,
1745 ; Josiah Feb. 20, 1754 ; Seth Jan. 8,1756, by 2d. m.; Doane Aug. 14,
1757, after which the father with all his family except the eldest son went
to Liverpool, N. S.; Margaret May 19, 1761; Sarah Mar. 30, 1763 ; Lydia
Nov. 20, 1764 ; and Jas. Sept. 24, 176 7. Samuel, b. 1736, m. Mary Snow,
Dec. 16, 1756. and resided in Harwich. Issue: Joseph Feb. 4, 1759;
Mercy 1762; Thankful 1763, and then removed to the Penobscot. Hezekiah,
b. 1740, and d. 1816, was sometime of Liverpool; afterwards of Norwich.
The town of Liverpool began its existence soon after the migration first
indicated, as per records, the first entry being: “ Liverpool, Feb. 20,1761-2.
Births, deaths, and marriages, hereafter to be registered by me, Elisha Free-
man, proprietor’s clerk. ” We may not here note the numerous descendants
of the above, further than to state that from Joseph, b. 1745, who m.
Rebecca Nickerson, dr. Jeremiah and Rebecca, and was deputy provost
marshal and afterwards, sheriff of Queen’s Co., was Col. Joseph, b. 1765,
who was first a mariner, then mercht. and represented the township of L. and
Queen’s Co. in Provincial Parliament 25 years, and was father of the pres-
ent Snow Parker Freeman, b. 1805, barrister, judge, U. S. consular agent
many years, and many years member of the Provincial Parliament to whom
we are indebted for much courtesy.ADDENDA.
771
of Nova Scotia have, in course of time, intermarried.
Some branches of the same name, originating from the
Cape, are now accounted distinct races, though their
common origin is demonstrable from Cape records.1
In addition to our notice of the Clarks, p. 756 and
elsewhere, we subjoin a note embracing a genealogical
notice of the descendants of Mr. Kimbal Clark of
Harwich, now Brewster, who died Nov. 24, 1801, 93.
67.2
We have, in preceding pages, noticed the Collins
family, and may add in a note some additional genea-
logical statistics.3
1	Another Liverpool family is descended from Mr. William Freeman,
b. 1715, s. of Wm. and Mercy of Eastham. He m. Hannah Atwood, June
5, 1736, and d. 1741, and, like his gr. father Wm., had two children only,
whose names were Wm. and Lydia. This last Lydia m. Benj. Haskell of
Falmouth, Me. William, b. Mar. 22,1740-41, went to N. S. and m. Mary
Cobb Nov. 21, 1763. He d. 1816, and was father of Col. William of Liver-
pool, a highly respectable magistrate and also mem. Provincial Parliament
who d. 1814; Col. Sylvanus whod. 1795 ; John who was lost by the found-
ering of the privateer Rollie 1814; Jas. who d. at St. Kitts 1811; and Robt.
who d. at St. Lucia 1821; each leaving families, and having now numerous
descendants.
Still another Liverpool branch is from Elisha Freeman, b. 1701. prob.
s. of Samuel of Eastham, and went to N. S. 1760-1. He removed first to
Rochester, Mass, with his w. Lydia, 1726, and had issue: sons Simeon, Bar-
nabas, Nath., Elisha, Zoeth, and Lothrop; and drs. Patience, Lydia, and
Hope. The eldest son, Simeon, m. about 1757 ; the 2d., about 1759; the
3d., Elisha, had Elkanah b. 1763 from whom is Jno. H. Freeman Esq.,
master of excise in Liv., b. 1801, and to whom we are under obligations for
much courtesy. This branch is also very numerous.
2	Mr. Kimbal Clark, b. July 20, 1734, s. of Seth and gr. s. of Lt.
Thomas, m. Mary Paddock, and had Isaac 1761; Lot 1763, d. y.; Mary
1765, who m. Doct. Josiah Myrick; Phebe 1771, who m. Luke Baker;
Kimbal 1777, who m. Mercy Snow ; Isaiah 1779, who m. Deborah Sears; and
Charlotte 1781, who m. Rev. Simeon Crowell. Mr. Clark was 9 yrs. rep.
of the town of H., a prominent and influential citizen. Isaac Esq., b. 1761,
s. of Kimbal, was also prominent, and 8 yrs. selectman. He m. Temperance
Sears, dr. Edmund, and d. 1819, ae. 58. Issue : Mary P. 1791, who m. Gen.
Mayo; Hannah 1792, who m. Winslow Hall; Lot 1796, who m. Mary B.
Eaton; Strabo 1801, who m. Adaline Dunbar; Temperance 1802 whom.
Benj. Baker; Edmund S. 1804 ; Albert P. 1806, who m. Sarah Freeman ;
and Eliza 1809, who m. Nath’l. Winslow. For the engraved likeness of
Mr. Isaac Clark, on the opposite page, our acknowledgments are due to his
son, Mr. Albert P. Clark of Boston.
8 Mr. Cyrenius Collins, b. in C. June 26, 1735, s. of Solomon, m.
Rebecca Eldridge July 13, 1756. Issue: Solo. Sept. 15, 1762; Mary,
1761; Desire 1767 ; Salome 1769, who m. Ebenezer Nickerson; Reuben772
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
We have in previous pages given some imperfect
genealogy of the Butler family; but, on p. 485, we are
surprised by some unaccountable mistake in the record
of the decease of a prominent citizen of Falmouth.
Instead of Moses, it should be Mr. Knowles Butler who
d. June 23, 1860, se. 67. He represented the town in
the State Legislature several years, and was 15 years
selectman; in these, and various offices of public trust,
performing his duties with honor, fidelity, and to gen-
eral acceptance, and dying much lamented. He was
father of Messrs. Edward K. and Daniel W. Butler,
merchants, Boston.
Mr. Amasa Nickerson, see p. 530, who was a substan-
tial citizen of Harwich, died Sept. 29, 1863, as. 84.1
Mr. Jaazaniah Gross of Truro, died Mar. 30,1816,
ae. 46.2
1773; Rebecca 1775; Eunice 1777; and Enoch Ap. ft, 1679. Solomon
Jr., of C., b. Mar. 23, 1737-8, m. Mary Taylor Nov. 16, 1758. Reuben,
b. 1773, set. in S., and, by his w. Elisa., had David 1805; and Reuben
1810. David, of C., had by his w. Desire, David Sept. 12, 1747. Rich-
ard m. Sarah Lombard Jan. 15, 1733. Benjamin Jr. m. Rachel Lom-
bard Jan. 23, 1772.
1	The grandfather of Mr. N. is understood to have been William who
was father of Bassett whose w. was Ruth. Mr. Amasa Nickerson, b.
Dec. 22, 1779, m. Mary Paine 1803, dr. of John and Elizabeth the dr. of
Rev. Joseph Lord of Chatham. Issue: Abigail P. Aug. 27, 1805; Joseph
P. Aug. 9, 1808; Amasa Mar. 11,1813; Pliny Mar. 12, 1816 ; Obed Feb.
21, 1819; and Asa W., May 30, 1822. Mr. Nickerson commenced his
business life upon the seas, when aged about 15 years, and continued
fishing in summer and coasting in winter about 20 years. He then relin-
quished his toils as a mariner and devoted the rest of life to farming and
attending to his large fishing interests. He was selectman several years,
from 1835, and was a prominent citizen. For the engraved likeness of
him, on the opposite page, we are indebted to the courtesy of his son, Mr.
Pliny Nickerson, merchant, of Boston.
2	See genealogy of the Gross family, pp. 682-3. Micah, of Truro, had,
by w. Lydia, Simon May 2, 1709, who m. Phebe Collins Feb. 14, 1749;
and Israel Ap. 28, 1718. Israel, b. 1718, m. 1st. Elisa., 2d. Lydia
Paine Dec. 23, 1762, and had Israel Nov. 10, 1741, d. y.; Sam’l. Nov. 10,
1743, who m. 1st. Apphia Freeman 1768, and 2d. Mary Lewis June 20,1776;
Jaazaniah Mar. 17, 1744-5 ; Elisa. Mar. 30,1748, whom. Isaiah Atkins Jr.
Oct. 11, 1764 ; Mary Feb. 8, 1749-50, who m. Barzillai Smith Oct. 5,1769;
Joseph Dec. 10, 1751, who m. Deliv. Dyer July 25, 1773; Dilla Mar. 12,
1755, who m. Jno. Collins Sept. 19, 1774; Micah Mar. 21,1764; Lydia
Mar. 19, 1769 ; and Israel Mar. 22, 1772. Jaazaniah, b. 1745,m. widow
Sarah Snow July 16, 1764, and had Elisa. Sept. 29, 1764; Sarah Mar. 29,ADDENDA.
773
Mr. Levi Stevens of Truro died Mar. 15,1829, ae. 81.
Mr. John Stevens was lost at sea, in 1830, ae. 38; Mr.
Levi Stevens died Oct 1, 1852, as. 63; Mr. Henrv
Stevens died July 10, 1853, ae. 71; and Mr. Jonah
Stevens, Nov. 17, 1859, ae. 84.1
Benjamin Burgess Esq., of Sandwich, died Jan. 29,
1864, as. 86.2
Mr. Isaiah Crowell, of Yarmouth, died Jan. 2, 1864,
ae. 85.3
1767, who m. Elisha Snow Jr. July 23, 1789 ; and Jaazaniah June 8, 1770.
Jaazaniah, b. 1770, and d. 1816, m. Anna Lombard Dec. 29, 1792, and
had Elisa. 1794 ; Jaazaniah 1796, d. 1819 ; Anne 1799; Isaac S. 1802, d.
inf.; Isaac S. 1803, who m. Betsy Davis 1823; Sarah 1805 ; and Elisa. S.
1808.
1	See genealogy of the Stevens family, p, 683. Richard, of Truro,
had, by w. Abigail, Levi Sept. 27, 1709; Richard Sept. 4, 1711; Joanna
Aug. 11, 1713; Abigail Mar. 14, 1715; and Jerusha Mar. 17, 1716.
Richard, b. 1711, m. 1st. Mary Gross June 11,1741, and 2d. Mary Nicker-
son of P. Nov. 10, 1768. Issue : Jonah May 8, 1742, who m. Rachel Rich
Oct. 17, 1765 ; Micah Ap. 14, 1744; Levi May 5, 1748; Richard Ap. 22,
1751, who, by w. Mercy, had Richard July 21, 1771, in P.; Mary Oct. 30,
1754, whom, three times; Abigail June 16, 1756; and Henry Sept. 13,
1759. Levi, b. 1748, and d. 1829, m. Anna Snow Oct. 14, 1772, and had
Abigl. Jan. 5, 1774 who m. 1792 ; Jonah Dec. 1, 1775, who m. 1st. 1799,
and d. 1859; Richard Feb. 13, 1778 ; Mary June 27, 1780, who m. 1799;
Henry Sept. 1, 1782, whom. 1808, and d. 1853; Sarah Sept. 3, 1784;
Anna June 20, 1787, whom. 1807 ; Levi Sept. 4, 1789, who m. 1812, and
d. 1852 ; and John Jan. 14, 1792, who m. 1817, and d. 1830.
2	For the engraved likeness of this eminently successful merchant, we are
indebted to the courtesy of his son. The family and lineage of Mr. B. we
have noticed pp. 91, 92, he being then yet living. Mr. Burgess, b. in S.,
Aug. 26, 1778, s. of Elisha, achieved by industry, enterprise, business sagac*
ity, and unquestioned integrity, a distinguished position in the mercantile
community, first engaging in trade in his native place which he represented
many years in the legislature, and subsequently transferring his business to
Boston where he established the house of B. Burgess & Sons. After en-
gaging many years in a large and lucrative trade with Cuba, he retired
from the more active business of the firm, and again resumed his position
in his native town, enjoying annually, duripg the season of vegetation, the
estate which he had loved to cherish as a home, and which had been associ-
ated with the family name more than two centuries. Naturally quiet,
urbane, and unobtrusive, his character was at the same time marked by
great firmness. If not dating back to the period of that class of men which
he himself would have denominated “ the old school of gentlemen,” he was*
nevertheless, a worthy link, connecting that age with the present.
8 We have noticed the ancestry, p. 192, as also elsewhere other branches
of the family. The progenitor, it will be seen, was Mr. John Crqweh*
(usually written in the records Crowe), who came over to Charlestown 1635,
was a leading proprietor of Yarmouth, and d. 1673, whose w. was Elishua.
His son John, b. 1638, and d. 1689, resided at Nobscusset, and m. Mehit.774
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Maj. Gen. Walley. — Under the engraved likeness
that has affixed the facsimile autograph of this emi-
nent man, Yol. I. p. 324, is stated erroneously the
date of his birth. Instead of 1654, it should be 1643,
Miller, dr. of Rev. John. Their s. John, b. 1662, m. Bethia Sears, dr. of
Paul, 1684. Theirs. Christopher, b. 1698, sold out at Nobseusset and
located at u Secuit Neck,” m. Sarah Matthews Sept. 23, 1724, and had is-
sue: Hannah Sept. 9, 1725, who m. Sears; Elisa. July 3, 1728'; Sarah
July 14, 1729, who m. Seled Landers 1746, and removed "to N. Scotia;
Mary Mar. 19, 1731; Temperance Ap. 19, 1733; William Mar. 25, 1734,
who m. Hannah Sears; Christopher Ap. 7, 1737 ; Enoch May 25, 1739;
Bethiah Aug. 28, 1741; and John Feb. 2, 1744, who d. Ap. 6, 1825.
Christopher, b. 1737, m. Deborah Sears, and had issue: Sarah Nov. 22,
1762; Levi May 16, 1764; Nathan May 29,1766; Heman July 19, 1768 ;
Deborah August 26, 1770; Bethiah Oct. 18, 1772; Elisa. Nov. 10, 1774 ;
Joshua Feb. 7, 1777; Isaiah Mar. 10, 1779; Priscilla Mar. 20, 1781;
Christopher Sept. 21, 1783 ; David, Jan. 11, 1786 ; and Barzillai Aug. 14,
1789. Isaiah, the subject of this notice, b. 1779, in Dennis, m. Hannah
Howes, and 2d, Abigail Kelley. Issue: by 1st m., Isaiah Nov. 29, 1804,
who d. Feb. 13, 1838 ; by 2d m., Hannah H. Feb. 23, 1809, who d. Nov.
26, 1835; Barzillai Ap. 18, 1811, who d. inf.; Abby K. Ap. 5, 1814 ; Na-
than July 7, 1816, d. inf.; Nathan Nov. 9,1818 ; Henry G. Sept. 10,1821;
Phebe K. July 22, 1824; and Seth K. Jan. 19, 1827. Mr. Crowell com-
menced his business life upon the seas at an early age, and by activity and
perseverance soon became master of his profession, and was owner in part
of nearly all the vessels he commanded. In the prosecution of one of his
voyages, he was in the port of Marseilles, Fr., when the British Orders in
Council were about to take effect, under which all neutral vessels from
French ports were declared lawful prizes if captured by Br. cruisers. Capt.
C. left the port, ran the gauntlet of cruisers through the Straits of Gibral-
tar, and reached the United States in safety. In April, 1812; it being ex-
pected that an embargo act would be passed by Congress, he was loading
in Boston for Lisbon; but, with his characteristic energy, put forth every
effort to complete his cargo and clear for a foreign port. He cleared coast-
wise for Eastport where he arrived in advance of the mail bringing intelli-
gence of the embargo, and there cleared for Lisbon, removing his vessel to
Campo Bello in British waters, whence, the cargo being completed, he pro-
ceeded to Lisbon. On his return, war with England having been declared,
it was his misfortune to be captured by a British cruiser, and sent to St.
John’s, N. F., where his vessel was condemned, and he was being returned
to the United States in the British sloop-of-war Alert, — the same that was
captured by the Essex, Capt. Porter, who, at sea, converted his prize into a
cartel, and sent her English officers and crew into St. John’s, in exchange
for American prisoners detained there. The preceding last voyage made
by Capt. C. was the only one which did not result successfully. Capt. C.
accumulated in early life a large property. At the establishment of the
Barnstable Bank he was chosen a director, and continued in office 37 suc-
cessive years, and 18 years was president, — always kind and courteous, —
and under his administration the institution was eminently successful. He
represented the town of Y. in the legislature several years. Upright, and
commanding a large share of public confidence, he was one of Cape Cod’s
most estimable citizens. We are indebted to that intelligent and courteous
gentleman, Seth Crowell Esq., for the incidents of the life of Mr. IsaiahCONCLUSION.
Having taken, as originally contemplated, a general
survey of the progress of events in Barnstable County,
from the time of the earliest discovery of any portion
of this peninsula by Europeans, so far as is known;
and of the several distinct Towns, seriatim, from their
settlement to the present moment, we now conclude
our labors with a few remarks and acknowledgments.
We claim no merit for the work, other than that in
the execution we have carefully recorded whatever
might fairly elucidate the subject in hand. For the
omission of trivial matters, of no possible public impor-
tance, and from the relation of which neither valuable
information nor suggestions could be derived, nor any
benefit ensue, and, especially, of trifling incidents
that, if not in themselves revolting, partake only of
“ Th’ common chat of gossips when they meet,”
we need make no apology; for to have done otherwise
would have been to offer insult to the intelligent
reader. The field before us, it may well be supposed,
has, in general, been no exception to all other commu-
nities, peoples, and periods ; so that, could we forego
self-respect, and were the pen thus inclined, we might
have discoursed of both celebrities and diminutives
98	(777)
VOL. II.778
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
with a minuteness adapted to perverted tastes, — al-
leging of this one,
“ Some modern anecdotes aver
He nodded in his elbow-chair; ”
of another,
“ He decently, in form, paid Heav'n its due,
And made a civil visit to his pew.”
Or we might have descended to the grosser person-
alities, if
“ Scandal-picking were our trade,”
and have reported
“ Seldom at church, ’twas such a busy life;
But duly sent his family and wife.”
Of another, perhaps we might have said, “His face
was thought longer than exact symmetricians would
allow.” But, having no vocation in such direction, we
have never pandered to vulgar minds, nor lost sight,
for one moment, of the duty the profession of history
imposes, nor in any sense been faithless to the monition
which good sense, sound morality, and true honor will
ever approve,
“ It lies on you to speak
ISTot by your own instruction, nor by any matter
Which your own heart prompts you to.”
Aiming to be faithful and true, impartial and just, char-
itable and courteous, urbane and reverent, patriotic
and Christian, it is for an intelligent public to deter-
mine how far our aim has been successful.
We cannot, after all our care, presume that there
are no defects in the work; nor will we deprecate
criticism. We may not, either, enter upon a detail of
the difficulties found in the way of the execution ofCONCLUSION.
779
our task to our own entire satisfaction ; for they who
have experienced the trials of similar publications,
know that such difficulties are neither few, nor easily
surmounted.
To our Subscribers who, with cheering words and
honorable fulfilment of their engagements, have waited
the issue, a hearty salvediction.
To those generous Friends whose unsolicited coope-
ration we have received in extra-contributions in aid
of the unforeseen expense of the work, we know not
how to express adequately our feeling. In truth,
“ We can no other answer make but thanks ;
And thanks, and ever thanks : tho’ oft good turns
Are shuffl’d off with such uncurrent pay.”
This, however, we most sincerely assure them: they
have conferred a benefit, without making an ingrate.
We make the acknowedgment without the vanity of
imagining that their action was intended in any sense
as an expression of favor to us personally; we regard
it, as no doubt prompted, the expression of a desire to
see the history complete and issued without pecuni-
ary loss to the author. It is, nevertheless, being the
act of gentlemen of position and intellectual culture,
and delicately proffered after our work was in part be-
fore the public, complimentary to our aim, and, as
such, constitutes a flattering reward. We are peremp-
torily dissuaded the honor of recording either names
or gratuities; and their dissuasives are in keeping with
unostentatious liberality. Should there, however, be
thought, perchance, discoverable in succeeding pages
aught that may be construed a typographical intima-
tion of the sources from whence generous sympathy
has flowed, we trust it will be pardoned; for we must
be allowed at least this compromise.780
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
The fidelity, ability, and courtesy with which, first
the Boston Stereotype Foundry, and, succeeding* them,
the house of Messrs. Geo. C. Rand & Avery, have per-
formed their engagements in the work of stereotyping;
and the latter also by the neatness of execution in the
entire printing, we are proud to acknowledge. They
need no eulogium from us ; their works praise them.
These duties performed, we offer devout acknowl-
edgments especially, and above all, to that Almighty
Power by which we have been preserved, and by
whose great goodness we have been enabled to prose-
cute this present work to its close. And now, retiring
from a position of protracted toil and of some anxiety,
we can but humbly cherish the hope that our labor
has not been in vain whether as respects the claims of
past generations, the reasonable expectations of the
present, or the benefits to posterity.SUBSCRIBERS.
MASSACHUSETTS.
Barnstable.
Ainsworth, James.
Bacon, Ebenezer.
Bassett, Zenas D., Hon.
^Baxter, Sylvester, Hon.
Bearse, Orrin B.
Bearse, Owen.
Bursley, Joseph.
Chase, Luke B.
Coombs, Edwin.
* Crocker, Fred. W.
Crocker, Samuel S.
Crosby, Samuel.
Day, Joseph M., Hon.
Eldridge, Waterman.
Goss, F. B.
Hallett, Warren.
Hinckley, Josiah.
Lewis, Elijah 2d.
Mars ton, George, Hon.
Otis, James.
Phinney, Sylvanus B.
Beverly.
Baker, John I., Hon.
Burley, Mrs. Edward.
Boston.
Atkins, Ebenezer.
Atkins, Elisha.
Atkins, Isaiah.
Atkins, Isaiah M.
Atwood, E. L.
Atwood, H.
Ayres, John.
Bacon, Eben. Jr.
Bacon, Francis.
Bacon, F. E.
Bacon, George.
*Bacon Robert.
Bacon, Thomas C.
Bacon, William.
Bacon, Wm. B.
Baker, Benjamin.
Baker, Ezra H.
Baker, Freeman.
Baker, Judah.
Baker, Richard.
Baker, Richard Jr.
Balch, Joseph W.
*Bangs, Benjamin.
Bassett, Elisha.
Bassett, Francis, Hon.
Baxter, John A.
Beal, Alexander.
Bearse, Lincoln B.
Bourne, Ezra A.
Bridge, Nathan W.
Brooks, Henry C., Col.
Burgess, B. F.
Butler, Daniel W.
Butler, Edw. K.
Chase, Geo. B.
Clark, Albert P.
Clark, Thacher Jr.
*Cobb, Matthew.
Crocker, Henry, Hon.
Crocker, Uriel.
Crowell, Bro. & Co.
Crowell, Nathan.
Crowell, Nathan Jr.
Davis, Adolphus.
Davis, Barnabas.
Davis, Ebenezer.
Davis, Fred. C.
*Davis, James.
Davis, James Jr.
Davis, Joseph.
Davis, S. G.
Deane, Charles.
Deane, John W.
Dexter, Henry M., Rev.
Dillingham, Ezra C.
Dimmock, Wm. R.
Doane, Thomas,
*Eldridge, E. H.
*Eldridge, Ellery.
Eldridge, Samuel.
Eldridge Smith.
Everett, Edward, Hon.,
LL.D.
Fairbanks, David.
Fessenden, S. H.
Freeman, Benj. S.
Freeman, George A.
Freeman, George E.
Freeman, K. W.
Freeman, Watson Jr.
Freeman, William.
Freeman, Wm. F.
Gibbs, Nathan B.
Gross, Isaac S.
Hall, James.
*Hallett, Benj. F., Hon.
781782
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Hallett, Henry L.
Hardy, Alpheus, Hon.
Harris, Horatio.
*Hawes, Charles H.
Higgins, Joseph S.
Higgins, R. R.
Hinckley, Freeman.
*Hinckley, H. H.
Hinckley, William.
Holbrook, Jesse.
Hooper, Samuel, Hon.
Howes, Osborne.
Howes, Richard A.
Howland, George.
Jaxves, Deming.
Krogman, Samuel B.
Lewis, Simeon H.
Lewis, Winslow, M. D.
Lincoln, Henry.
Lincoln, William.
Lombard, Benj.
Lombard, Benj. Jr.
Lombard, D. B.
^Lombard Israel.
Lombard, Israel Jr.
Lothrop, Samuel Iv. Rev.,
D.D.
Lovejoy, Loyal.
Lowell, Geo. G.
Matthews, Nathan.
Mayo, H.
Mayo, Joshua C.
Minot, William Jr.
Montgomery, Hugh.
Morey, George, Hon.
Myrick, George.
Nickerson, Eben. & Co.
Nickerson, Edw. G.
Nickerson, Frederic.
Nickerson, Joseph.
Nickerson, Pliny.
Nickerson, Sereno D.
Paine, John A.
*Perry, M. S., M. D.
Phillips, Wendell.
Ransom, Alexander.
Reed, John.
Rich, Isaac.
Riley, Patrick.
Ritchie, Harrison.
Ryder, George G.
Sargent, L. M., Hon.
Sawyer, F. W.
*	Scudder, Alexander.
*	Scudder, Charles.
Scudder, Charles W.
Scudder, Henry A.
Scudder, Heryey.
Scudder, Mrs. L. S.
Scudder, Marshall S.
Scudder, P. W.
Sears, Dayid, Hon.
Sears, Nathan F.
Sears, Paul.
Sears, Philip H., Hon.
Sears, Prince.
Sears, Richard W.
Sever, Mrs. Abigail.
*Shaw, Lemuel, Hon.,
LL.D.
Shurtleff, N. B., M. D.
Simpkins, S. G.
Smith, Albert, Hon.
Smith, George L.
Smith, Stephen.
Smith, W. B.
Snow, B. S.
Snow, David.
Sowle, John.
Spurr, Henry F.
State Library.
Stearns, Wm. H.
*Sturgis, Wm., Hon.
Swett, Samuel, Col.
Thacher, Barnabas.
Thacher, Isaac.
Thacher, Peter.
*Thacher, Thomas, Jr.
Thacher, Wm. S.
Thornton, J. Wingate.
Tobey, E. S., Hon.
Tobey, Seth.
Townsend, Solo.D.,M.D.
Trask, Wm. B.
Tuck, Mrs. Dr.
*	Tudor, Frederick.
Waterman, Foster.
Waterman, Thomas.
Whitmore, W. H.
Wi^gin, John K.
Wilder, J. S.
Winslow, Elisha D.
Winslow, Roland D.
Winthrop, Rt. C., Hon.,
LL.D.
Wolcott, J. Huntington.
Young, Calvin.
Brewster,
Bangs, Elisha.
*Bangs, Elkanah.
Bangs, F. H.
Berry, Benjamin F.
*Cobb, Elijah.
Cobb, Freeman, Hon.
Crosby, Elisha.
* Crosby, Freeman.
Crosby, Nathan.
Crosby, Rowland F.
Crosby, Tully.
Dunbar, Albert.
Foster, Elisha.
^Foster, Nathan.
Freeman, Barnard.
Freeman, Benjamin.
Freeman, John.
Freeman, Solomon.
Gould, Samuel, M. D.
Higgins, George W.
Knowles, W. W.
Lincoln, David.
Lincoln, Warren.
Mayo, Jeremiah, Gen.
Pepper, Bangs.
*Pratt, Enoch, Rev.
Sears, Joseph H.
Bridgewater,
Latham, Williams.
Brighton.
Collins, David.
Cambridge.
Harv. Col. Library.
Palfrey, John G., Hon.,
LL.D.
Peabody, And. P., Rev.,
D.D.
Sibley, John L., Rev.SUBSCRIBERS.
783
Charlestown.
Lambert, Thos. R., Rev.,
D. D.
Chatham.
Atwood, Joseph.
Atwood, Levi.
Bea, Isaac.
Carpenter, Elij. W.,M.D.
Crowell, Benajah Jr.
Emery, John.
Godfrey, George,
Hammond, Charles.
Harding, Prince.
Hardy, Josiah.
Higgins, Samuel.
*Howes, Mulford.
Lewis, Isaiah.
Lewis, Horatio.
Loveland, Isaac H.
Nickerson, Caleb.
Nickerson, Franklin.
Nickerson, Joshua.
Ryder, Thacher.
Smith, Jacob.
Smith, Stephen.
Stetson, Philip.
Taylor, Richard.
Taylor, Samuel.
Dedham.
Burgess, Eben., Rev.,
D.D.
Dennis.
Baker, Obed 2d.
Baker, Watson.
Chapman, Howes.
Crowell, Prince S.
Crowell, Seth, Hon.
Hall, Barnabas.
Homer, Stephen.
Howes, Cyrus.
Howes, Eben.
Howes, Moses Jr.
Howes, Thomas P.
Howes, Wm. F.
Lord, Wm. E., M. D.
Nickerson, Eleazar.
Nickerson, Miller W.
Rogers, George C.
Shiverick, Asa.
Stone, Nathan.
Underwood, Marshall S.
Dorchester.
Adams,------, Dea.
Dorchester Library.
Duxbury.
Gifford, S. N.
Eastham.
Heman, Doane.
Fairhaven.
Allen, Edmund.
Fish, Roland.
Gibbs, Wm. L. B.
Hawes, John A.
Nye, Reuben.
Robinson, James.
Sawin, Ezekiel.
Tripp, Job C.
Tripp, Lemuel C.
Wilcox, A. Palmer.
Falmouth.
Bourne, Barnabas E.
Bourne, Warren N.
Childs, Peter E.
Clarke, George E.
Dillingham, Stephen.
Dimmick, Wm. F.
Gifford, Melatiah.
Gould, Erasmus.
Hatch, John.
Hewins, William.
Jenkins, Mrs. John.
Jenkins, Prince.
Lawrance, Thomas H.
Nye, Albert.
Nye, Samuel.
Robinson, John H.
Robinson, John R.
Swift, Benj. P.
Swift, Mrs. Elijah.
Swift, Elijah.
Swift, Oliver C.
Tobey, Henry.
Foxboro*.
Baker, Miss Clara P.
Greenfield.
Davis, George T., Hon.
Davis, Wendell T.
Leonard, Theodore.
Harwich.
Baker, Jos. K.
Brooks, Obed.
Brooks, Sidney.
Chase, Isaiah.
Chase, Jonathan.
Doane, Nathaniel Jr.
Doane, Valentine Jr.
Eldridge, Benj. D.
Emery, J. W.
Hebard, Frederick, Rev.
Kelly, Anthony.
Kelly, N. D.
Lothrop, Davis, Rev.
Nickerson, Elkanah.
Nickerson, Henry.
Weekes, Cyrus, Hon.
Woodard, Joseph.
Young, John M.
Hingham.
Hersey, Henry.
Lincoln, Solomon, Hon.
Lanesville.
Burgess, Ebenezer, Rev.
Nantucket.
Adams, Orin F.
Fearing, Elisha P., M.D,
New Bedford.
Bourne, Jonathan Jr.
Clifford, John H., Hon.,
LL.D.
Cornish, Aaron, M. D.
Crocker, Oliver & Geo.
Delano, J. C.
Eliot, Thos. D., Hon.
Ellis, Nathan S.
Fessenden, C. B. H.784
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Freeman, E. P.
Gifford, William.
Grinnell, Joseph, Hon.
Howland, Edw. W.
Howland, Matthew.
Howland, Wm. P.
Hussey, George.
Ingraham, R. C.
Munroe, James.
Nye, Willard.
Parker, Ward M.
Rodman, Benjamin.
Russell, Henry, M. D.
Russell, William T.
Sears, Willard.
* Spooner, Paul, M.D.
Taber, Henry.
♦Taber, Isaac C.
Taylor, William H.
Wing, Joseph R.
Wood, Henry T.
Wood, James B.
Newburyport.
Newburyport Pub. Lib’ry.
Orleans.
Cummings, Joseph.
Higgins, Jonathan.
Plymouth.
Rich, Isaac B.
Provincetown.
Atwood, John Jr.
Baker, A.
Bowley, JoshuaE.
Camman, C. H.
Carson, G. W.
Dudley, A. S.
Dyer, Elisha.
Fluker, F. F.
Freeman, Nathan.
Gifford, James.
Gifford, S. S.
Hopkins, Joshua F.
Hopkins, Nathaniel.
Howes, Samuel,
Lothrop, John L., M. D.
Lothrop, Thomas.
Mayo, Edwin C.
Nickerson, Atkins.
Nickerson, Enos.
Nickerson, Jonathan.
Nickerson, R. E.
Nickerson, Seth.
Nickerson, Stephen.
Odd Fellows Library.
Paine, Joshua.
Paine, S. A.
Small, Arnold.
Small, Jesse.
Smith, Eben. S.
Stone, Jeremiah, M. D.
Tuck, F. B.
Roxbury.
Eldridge, Oliver.
Wing, Benj. F., M. D.
Sandwich.
♦Bourne, Melatiah.
♦Boyden, Jesse.
Boyden, William.
♦Burgess, Benjamin.
♦Chipman, Jonathan.
Dillingham, Chas., Hon.
Ellis, Mrs. Jane.
Ewer, Edward W.
Fessenden, William.
Foster, Josiah.
Freeman, Edmund B.
Freeman, Otis.
Freeman, Watson,Hon.
Hamblen, Edward C.
♦Jarves, John.
Jones, Charles B.
Leonard, Jonathan, M. D.
Moran, William, Rev.
Perry, William.
Swift, Seth.
Waterman, C. C. P.
Whittemore, E. S.
Wing, Paul.
Somerville.
Hughes, Albert E.
Hughes, John A.
Stevens, Levi F.
Truro.
Paine, Daniel.
Wareham.
Burgess, Stephen C.
Kinney, John M., Hon.
Tisdale, Samuel T.
Wayland.
Sears, Edmund H., Rev.
WeUfleet.
Smith, Elisha W.
Wyer, George T.
Yarmouth.
Baxter, Alexander.
Hallet, Eben. A.
Sears, Charles.
Sears, J. K.
Swift, Charles F., Hon.
NEW HAMFSHIBE.
Dover.
Freeman, Asa, Hon.
Freeman, Edmund.
Freeman, Frank.
Thornton, J. B. Jr., Rev
Fessenden Mills.
Fessenden, Stephen.
Hanover.
Freeman, Miss Hannah.
Milford.
Eldridge, H., M. D.
Portsmouth.
Hoyt, Albert H.
Thacher, Henry S.
CONNECTICUT.
Westminster.
Gilbert, J. C.
West Winstead.
Patterson, Daniel W.SUBSCRIBERS.
785
VERMONT.
Middlebury.
Battel, Philip.
MAINE.
Augusta.
Snell, Issachar.
Williams, Mrs. Reuel.
Brunswick.
Maine Historical Society.
Fairfield.
Burgess, Wm. E.
Noiridgewock.
Freeman, Abraham W.
Portland.
Freeman, James.
Hinckley, H. K.
Willis, William, Hon.
Scarboro1.
Thornton, J. B.
Thomaston.
Burgess, Wm. Carey.
RHODE ISLAND.
Newport.
Landers, Mrs. Edward.
Providence.
Allen, Crawford.
Baker, C. C.
Baker, E. C.
Bodfish, William.
Burgess, Alexander.
Burgess, Alpheus.
Burgess, Frederic.
Chase, Z. & Co.
Crocker, Nathan B., Rev.,
D.D.
Fessenden, Benjamin.
Hallet, George W.
Harding, Joshua.
vol. ii. 99
NEW YORK.
Albion.
Paine, Samuel C., M.D.
Brooklyn.
Burgess, Phineas.
Buffalo.
Hawley, E. S.
Greenport.
Kendrick, Nathan.
Ira.
Morgan, Mrs. Harriet.
Kinderhook.
Tobey, William H.
New York.
Akin, Abiel.
Alstrum, Benjamin.
Atkins, J. Jr.
Bacon, D. G.
Bacon, Elisha.
Bacon, Freeman.
Bailey, J. W.
Baker, E.
Bancroft, George, Hon.,
LL.D.
Bassett, Zenas D. Jr.
Bearse, G.
Bodfish, R. Crocker.
Boyle, James, M. D.
Bryan, Oliver.
Bunker, Wm. J.
Bursley, Ira.
Cleverly, James, Hon.
Cobb, Daniel.
Cobb, Matthew.
Collins, N. B.
Conger, Mrs. E.
Crocker, Eben. B.
Crocker, F. A.
Crocker, Stephen.
Crosby, Seth.
Crowell, Elisha.
Crowell, Stephen.
Dalton, George T.
Darling, Martha Mrs.
Davenport, John.
Davis, Timothy.
Dinsmore, W. B.
Draper, Simeon.
Fish, Hamilton, Hon.
Freeman, Charles M.
Freeman, George A.
Freeman, Henry P.
Freeman, John G.
Freeman, Nathaniel.
Freeman, Pliny.
^Freeman, Solomon.
Freeman, Samuel T.
Goodspeed, Arthur.
Goodspeed, Charles.
Hawkes, Frs. L., D. D.,
LL. D.
Historical Society.
Holbrook, Isaac S.
Holmes, James M.
Howes, Amos.
Howes, R. W.
Howland, B. J.
Howland, Rt. S., Rev.,
D.D.
Kelley, J. N.
Leonard, William H.
Leverich, Charles P.
Lewis, Ezra.
Lewis, J. B.
Lewis, S. W.
Libby, Demorin.
Lovell, Alexander.
Lovell, Frank H.
Matthews, Edward.
Mayo, S.
Mercantile Library.
Newcomb, C.
Newcomb, C. G.
Nye, Ezra.
Nye, James W., Gov.
Otis, J. W.
*Otis, Isaac.
Otis, Horatio N.
Patten, Joseph H.
Prentiss, Geo. L., Rev.,
D.D.
Ray, C. B., Rev.
Reeves, Henry G.
1 Simpkins, John,786
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Small, B. F.
Smith, James A.
Snow, Michael.
Stetson, Charles A.
Stetson, Thomas P.
Swift, Henry.
Swift, James M.
Taylor, Theodore A.
Thorp, Andrew.
Tobey, G. R.
Tufts, Walter Jr.
Tupper, Charles H.
Tupper, George.
Tupper, Homes.
Underwood, H.
Warren, Edward J.
Warren, George.
Warren, Richard.
Watts, William.
White, John.
Wing, W. G.
Woodard, R. T.
Young, John S.
Rushville,
Bassett, Wm. F.
Tarrytown.
Webb, Jas. Watson, Hon.
Troy.
Freeman, J. W.
Meneely, Mrs. Andrew.
PENNSYLVANIA.
Philadelphia.
Brooks, S. S., M.D.
Wagner, Tobias.
MARYLAND.
Baltimore.
Edwards, Richard Jr.
Keith, Edward.
Miller, Mrs. W. J.
Pratt, Enoch.
NEW JERSEY.
Newark.
Freeman, H. W.
OHIO.
Constitution.
Burgess, Dyer, Rev.
Yellow Springs.
Leonard, Frs. D.
ILLINOIS.
Alton.
Topping, M. H.
Bnmjidd.
^Freeman, Charles H.
Chicago.
Matthews, Watson.
Underwood, P. S.
Underwood, Sidney S.
Griggsville.
Ayres, Marshall.
Ottawa.
Freeman, Seth.
Wing, Clifton L.
WISCONSIN.
Sparta.
Burgess, Daniel W.
MINNESOTA.
St. Paul.
Mayo, Charles E.
NORTH CAROLINA.
Raleigh.
Freeman, Edmund B.
LOUISIANA.
New Orleans.
Woodbury, George.
Port Hudson.
Freeman, H. W., Lt.
KANSAS.
Burlingame.
Harpur, John, M. D.
TEXAS.
San Antonio.
Lewis, Nathaniel.
CALIFORNIA.
San Francisco.
Stevens, Levi.
San Jose.
Kingsbury, Benj. B.
GEORGIA.
Washington.
Tupper, Homes A.,
Rev., D. D.
SOUTH CAROLINA.
Charleston.
Black, Alexander W.
Tupper, James.
Tupper, Samuel Y.
Tupper, Tristram & Sons.
NOVA SCOTIA.
Aylesford.
Tupper, Charles, D. D.
Tupper, Nathan.
ENGLAND.
London.
Waddington, Jno., Rev.,
D.D.INDEX OF SUBJECTS
A..
Acadians, p. 108.
Acknowledgments, 779,
780.
Addenda, 769.
Agricultural prod., 354.
Soc. Hall, 337.
Ale wives distinct from her-
rings, 30.
Ammunition, 50.
Ancestry, of, 13.
Annexation to E., 396.
to S., 13.
Anniversary at Be., 334.
at Y., 232.
Assistants chosen, 42.
ZB.
Baptism, 197, 261, 262.
Baptists, 300, 303, 304, 324,
394, 529, etc.
Barnstable, 241, 243, 252.
grant, 243.
settlers deliberate, 245.
thanksgiving, 246.
fasts, 247, 259, 200, 262.
first act of pub. wor., 248.
first deputies, 247.
situation, etc., 249.
progress, 254.
lands laid out, 255, 256.
lands purchased, 258, 266,
267, 273, 274.
meeting-house, 248, 258,
274.
burials, 260, 272.
ministry, 247, 262, 268,274,
285, 287, 290, 3<>0, 302,
321, 326, 328, 329, 333,
334, 335, 340.
Anabaptists, 262, 263, 300,
303, 304.
church troubles, 262, 267,
285, 290.
bounds settled, 264.
church schism, 268.
freemen, 268.
lands appropriated, 271,
279.
highways, 277.
mills, 277, 279, 295.
commons, 280, 282.
division project, 285,286.
Barnstable, schools,286, 292,
295, 303,314, 322, 325.
divided into precincts, 287.
East Parish, 288, 290, 294,
302, 303, 321, 325, 326,
328, 329, 334.
West Parish, 288, 290, 300,
326, 333, 335, 336, 340.
controversy about music,
290, 292.
a wharf at Hyannis, 295,
316.
political movements, 305.
Revolutionary conflict,304,
309.
political dissensions, 310.
South Parish, 325, 328,
331, 334, 335.
remarks on its present,
334.
Baptist Soc. at Hyannis
324.
Methodists, 465.
Bell, for court-house, 108.
Billingsgate, 379, 384, 395.
Bradford’s reservation, 198.
Breakwater, 331.
Brewster, 523, 737, 739,
742.
incorporated, 739, 744,745,
756.
situation, etc., 739.
anterior history, 742, 767.
ministry, 742, 744, 758, 760,
763, 764.
meeting-house, 742, 744.
proprietors, 742.
schools, 745, 757, 759, 760,
761, 762, 763, 764.
harbor 745.
political action, 750, 751.
tribute demanded of, 751.
capitulation, 754.
Universalist Soc., 758, 759,
760, 765.
Baptist Soc., 758, 766.
the first settlers, 767.
Building, regulated, 187.
C.
Calvinist Soc. of S., 144.
Canal, 22, 26,138, 146.
Cape Cod Association, 233,
334, 336.
Casualty, 65, 274, 465, 629.
Censoriousness, 190, 266.
Centreville, 254, 335.
Charter, 18, 19, 279, 371.
Chatham, 577, 579,581,586.
purchase, 579.
inc., 581. 594.
situation, etc., 581.
highways, 582.
schools, 586.
meeting-house, 587, 588,
598,	603.
ministry, 588, 589, 594,595,
599,	605, 606.
protection, 594.
Quakers, 597.
Separatists, 601.
Baptists, 601.
patriotic, 602.
Universalists, 607.
Church discipline, 256, 261,
391, 743.
Cider, 277.
City and country, 133.
Clams, 402.
Clay pounds, 538.
Cohasset, 27.
Cold winter, 460.
Collegiate honors, 599.
Commissioners, royal, 65.
Confederation, 22), 313, 672.
Constitution, 318, 400, 672.
Conclusion, 777.
Contents of Vol., 787.
Corrections, 774, 775.
Cotuit, 254, 335,337.
Port, 254.
Council of war, 71.
County formed, 77.
division asked, 390.
Courts, removal asked, 294,
390.
reduction asked, 516.
Cranberries, 177.
Criminal offences, 46, 71,184,
189, 190, 361, 362,370.
ZD.
Dangerfield, 535.
Dark day, 62.
Deer, 32.
Defences, 50.
Delap’s adventures, 291.
787788
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Dennis, 212, 214, 228, 687,
689, 690, 697, 700.
situation, etc., 689.
Port, 692.
ministry, 697, 699,704, 706,
708, 710, 711, 712, 713.
meeting house, 697, 702,
704.
bound, 701.
schools, 701, 703.
North Parish, 702, 708.
South Parish, 702, 703, 708.
Baptists, 702, 703.
Quakers, 702.
removals, 705.
Deputies, 42, 168, 239, 343,
413, 487.
Difficulties with England,
108.
Discouragements, 6, 8.
Disfranchisement, 62.
Disputes about whales, 64.
Divorce, 64, 67.
Domestic manufactures, 108.
Dike at Scusset, 91.
E.
East Brewster, 739.
East Dennis, 691.
East Falmouth, 421.
church organization, 465.
Eastham, 345. 352.
settled, 347, 356.
grant, 347, 349.
preferred to Plymouth,
348.
purchase, 348.
situation, etc., 350.
settlers, character of, 350.
large territory, 351.
territory diminished, 351.
incorporated as Nauset,
356.
places for worship, 356,
368, 377, 382, 384, 386,
390, 392, 409, 410.
ministry, 357, 358,364,365,
366, 380, 381, 383, 385,
386, 389, 391, 392, 397,
403, 409, 411.
deputies, <357.
vote by proxy, 360.
freemen, 361, 374.
lands, how 6old, 376.
schools, 377, 404.
mill, 378.
ministerial lands, 379.
Indian reservation, 380.
divided into precincts, 383,
3*4.
burial-place, 383, 385.
South Parish, 383,391,396,
403.
North Parish, 385.386,387,
388, 3*9, 390, 392, 394.
division of, 390, 395.
Central Parish, 392, 393,
403.
patriotic, 397, 411.
resolves, 309.
traveller in, 405.
£rivat ions, 407.
[ethodists, 409.
camp-meetings, 410.
East Harbor, 535.
East Harwich, 493.
East Sandwich, 25.
Eel-River bridge, 376.
Election sermon, 270.
Embargo, 406, 466, 641, 680,
706, 746.
Emigration, 705.
to Long Island, 51,
to Nova Scotia, 108, 770.
first, 18.
Employ, thankless, 6.
Equivalent for Indian lands,
209.
Expresses, 53.
E.
Factory in S., 143.
Falmouth, 415, 419, 422.
incorporated, 417, 428.
situation, etc., 417. 418.
grant of, 422.
ministry, 425, 428, 433,43*),
442, 444, 45 ', 460, 462,
469, 471, 473, 474, 477,
479, 484, 485.
meeting-house, 435, 440,
447, 450, 463.
ordinary, 425.
Quakers, 428, 438.
highways, 429.
lands laid out, 430.
records, 431.
schools, 433, 448.
ferry, 444.
training field, 447.
mills, 441, 448, 462.
Eatriotic, 449, 486.
oinbarded, 453. 456.
attempt to divide, 464.
wharf, 465.
second church, 469.
Bank, 469.
Farmersville, 30.
Firing woods, 104.
Fires in woods, 112.
Forests, cleared, 355.
Fort Sumter, 237.
Franchise, 20, 360.
Fresh-brook, 653.
Gr.
Gallantry, 43.
Garrison, 68.
Genealogical notices re-
stricted, 11.
Genealogies:
Adams, 595.
-Alden, 222, 231.
Allen, 46, 163, 327.
Allyn, 274.
AnnatUe, 272.
Arey, 163.
„ Arnold, 187.	...
Catkins, 164, 359, 644.)
Atwood, 373, 635.	'
Avery, 558.
Bacon, 264, 293, 295, 296,
302. 632.
Bangs, 512, 702, 766.
Baker, 203, 277, 296, 702,
707,708, 709, 711, 714.
Barlow, 73.
Bascom, 727.
Bassett, 142, 146, 209, 217,
228. 332, 407, 604, 709.
Batchelor, 179.
Bearse, 297, 299, 300, 691.
Berry, 198, 207, 216.
Besse, 74.
Genealogies, Blackford, 298.
Blackwell, 164.
Bliss, 276, 292, 298.
Blossom, 260.
Bodfish, 142, 300, 329, 471.
Bourne, 128, 156, 162, 276,
301, 317, 331, 469.
Bowerman, 151, 484.
Briggs, 68, 608.
Brown, 371.
Burgess, 91, 150, 228, 773.
Bursley, 26(5, 290, 293, 296.
Butler, 68, 485, 772.
Casley, 208, 280.
Chapman, 220, 711.
Chase, 188, 199.
Cheever, 403.
Child, 188, 298, 303, 319.
Chipman, 104, 289, 303.
Chrystie, 144.
Church, 357.
Clark, 524, 756, 771.
Cobb, 274, 281, 291, 340,
763, 766.
Coggin, 260.
Cole, 373, 387.
Coleman, 286.
Collins, 374, 598, 771.
Cook, 366, 389, 634, 642,
643.
Cooper, 276.
Cotton, 124, 208, 545.
Covel, 597.
Crocker, 212, 281, 284, 288,
289, 290, 292, 294, 295,
296, 298, 301, 303, 304,
320, 323, 326, 327, 329,
332, 341, 397, 469, 472.
Crosby, 213, 365, 710, 761.
Crowell, 192, 199, 210, 217,
597, 708, 710, 712, 714,
773.
Cushing, 628.
Davis, 280, 294, 302, 321,
325, 326, 331, 332, 335,
475, 486.
Deane, 629.
Delap, 291
Dennis, 700.
Dexter, 78, 446.
Dillingham, 66, 163, 476.
Dimmick, 468, 477.
Doane, 232, 370, 379, 733,
734.
Donaldson, 467.
Drody, 145.
Dunster, 522.
Dver, 551.
Eldridge, 598, 601, 710.
Ellis, 72, 133, 164.
Emery, 605.
Ewer, 151, 164.
Ewell, 257.
Faunce, 153.
Fessenden, 154.
Fish, 51, 161, 164, 337, 478.
Foster, 111, 765.
♦ Freeman, 44, 75, 148, 151,
152, 159, 163, 370, 380,
J	381,	.382,	384,	385 ,	465,
l	555,	559,	569,	629,	633,
x	730,	757,	758,	759,	761,
765,770,771.
Fuller, 154, 485.
Gibbs, 147, 156, 158, 164.
Gifford, 161, 426.
Godfrey, 375. 609, 610.
Goodspeed, 479.
Gorham, 273.
Gray, 227, 375, 525, 758.INDEX OF SUBJECTS.
789
Genealogies, Green, 219,220,
290, 302, 332.
Greenleaf, 214.
Greenough, 674.
Griffith, 524.
Gross, 682, 683, 772.
Hall, 137, 202,209,214,507,
589, 707, 709, 717.
Hallett, 199, 232, 340.
Hamblen, 161,340.
Hamilton, 603.
Hamnvpnd, 72.
Hardy, 157.
Harding, 366, 599.
Harper, 68.
Hatch, 438, 473, 474.
Hawes, 202.
Hicks, 357.
Higgins, 371, 388, 725.
Hinckley, 574.
Holbrook, 678.
Holway, 161.
Homer, 713.
Hopkins, 384, 508.
Howes, 189, 194, 203, 214,
690, 702, 708, 709, 710,
711, 712.
Hoxie, 163, 164.
Hughes, 576.
Hurd, 375.
Jenkins, 294, 484, 486.
Jennings, 87.
Jones, 208, 476.
Kelley, 709, 717.
Kendrick, 732.
Kilborn, 648.
Knowles, 393, 736.
Latimer, 590.
Lawrence, 164, 475, 483.
Lewis, 285, 404, 465, 471,
480,	481, 507, 661, 676.
Lincoln, 750, 757.
Lombard, 330, 567.
Lord, 596.
Lothrop, 262.
Marshall, 444.
Marston, 324. *
Matthews, 180, 182, 214,
216, 225.
Mayo, 358, 362, 378, 379,
381, 389, 757.
Merrick, 365,391, 507, 736.
Metcalf, 442.
Miller, 182, 186, 210, 214.
Mulford, 375.
Newcomb, 98, 375, 634.
Newell, 763.
Newland, 69.
Nickerson, 207, 606, 611,
638, 707, 709, 710, 717,
756, 769, 772.
Norris. 82.
Nye, 143, 151, 155, 158, 468,
481.
Oakes, 386.
Osborn, 89.
Otis, 88, 99, 327.
Paddock, 214, 709.
Paine, 378, 553, 570, 573.
Palmer, 449. 465.
Parker, 438, 466, 472, 642.
Pepper, 366.
Percival, 155,339.
Perry, 153.
Phinney, 333.
Pope, 152.
Prince, 363.
Rawson, 218, 219.
Heed. 234.
Remick, 375.
Genealogies, Rich, 375.
Robinson, 438, 482.
Rogers, 92, 361, 369, 733.
Rotch, 630.
Ruggles, 99.
Russell, 285, 300.
Ryder, 630.
Sampson, 763.
Sargeant, 263.
Savage, 332.
Scudder, 336, 337, 338, 340.
Sears, 194, 205, 209, 216,
234, 591, 596, 601, 607,
609, 702, 706, 707, 709,
711, 712, 713, 714.
Shaw, 327, 339, 403, 410,
596.
Shiverick, 475, 717.
Simpkins, 700.
Skiff, 86.
Smalley, 359.
Smith, 80, 83, 217, 372, 551,
606, 762.
Snow, 365, 371, 373, 38
733, 759.
Soper, 647.
Sparrow, 361, 733.
Spear, 628.
Starr, 187.
Stevens, 683, 773.
Stewart, 93, 597.
Stone, 220, 704, 713, 749.
Strout, 630.
Sturgis, 203, 216,299.
Sunderland, 377.
Swift, 150, 152, 154, 478,
480, 483.
Taber, 180.
Taylor, 207.
Thacher, 194, 206, 214, 219,
220, 229, 230, 232.
Thornton, 200.
Tobey, 147, 156, 162, 218,
709, 711.
Treat, 381.
Tucker, 507.
Tupper, 71, 103, 104, 112.
Twining, 359.
Upham, 569.
Vickery, 590.
Walker, 36(f. *7
Walley, 274, 774.
Waterman, 328.
Webb, 393.
Weeks, 512, 527.
West, 229.
White, 227.
Whitman, 680.
Williams, 359. 760.
Willis, 55.
Wing, 100, 159, 161, 164,
200, 205.
Winslow, 764.
Wixam, 370.
Wood, 465.
Wooster, 98.
Wright, 44.
Young, 371, 378.
O* Other genealogi*
tables may be found in V
Geological changes, 353,583,
722.
Goats, 33.
Great Marshes, 251.
Great Neck, 352.
Greenville, 28.
H.
Half-way covenant, 197.
Half-way Ponds, 352.
Harvard College, support of,
365.
Harwich, 489,492.
incorporated, 491, 494.
situation, etc., 491.
ministry, 494, 498,514, 515,
516, 517, 522, 528, 530,
576, 742, 743.
bounds, 497, 510.
schools, 498, 505.
meeting-house, 499, 500,
503, 515.
burial-place, 499.
training-place, 499.
mills, 509.
Separatists, 511, 515.
Quakers, 512.
Anabaptists, 512.
South Precinct, 513, 516,
518, 742.
North Precinct, 515, 517,
522, 742.
Baptists, 517, 522, 527, 528,
529.
patriotic, 518, 530, 574.
independence voted, 519.
divided, 522.
Harwich- Pcvi, 493, 530.
Hatchville, 420, 469.
Head-of-the-Bay, 27.
Head of Pamet, 536.
Highways, 53.
Hinckley, Gov., dies, 283.
History, its demands, 4-9.
Hospitality, 70, 273.
Houses searched, 266.
Hunting laws, 108, 217, 555.
Hymntis, 252.
Hyannis-Port, 253.
I.
Ignorance abroad, 310.
Illustrations, list of, 788.
Importance of the country,
9.
Impounds, 204.
Incorporation, order of, 8.
Independence, 121, 223, 309,
565.
Indian constables, 369.
meetings, 68.
reservations, 380, 729.
schools, 377.
teachers, 370.
town, 176, 221.
war, 366.
Indians, decay of, 396, 679,
729.
purchases of, 269.
restricted, 83.
sickness of, 294, 295.
sold, 72.
statistics of, 110, 369, 372,
396.
Inscriptions, 14, 171, 242,
316, 416, 490, 534, 578,
616, 652, 688, 720, 738.
Instrumental music, 727.
Intolerance checked, 65.
Intoxicating drinks, 147,
362, 662, 730.
K.
I King’s arms set up, 270.790
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Hi.
Land-holders, fitness for,
45.
Lawyers, 149, 233,3-38.
Letter to Governors, 226.
of Hugh Peters, 257.
to Gov. Hinckley, 275.
of Jno. Freeman, 366.
on attack on Falmouth,
457.
Mr. Webster’s, 714.
Liberty-pole, 118.
discipline, 305.
Lighthouse, 331, 640, 642,
685.
List of subscribers, 781.
Longevity, 476, 657.
M.
Magee storm, 317.
Manomet, 17.
purchase, 53.
Map, Smith’s, T8.
Marshal appointed, 60.
Mar stores Mills, 253.
Mayflower, arrival of, 347.
Military draft, 68.
organization, 182, 282,360.
Ministry, tenure of, 609,
684, 729, 764.
Monomoyick taxed in E.,
368.
incorporated, 581, 587.
Monument, 27.
Moraines, 537.
Music, innovations in, 290,
292
Mutiny Act, 221.
N*.
Narraganset battle, 193.
grantees, 293, 389.
townships, 193.
Nation founded, 43.
Nauset incorporated, 356.
Naval service, 317, 328, 408.
Negative committee, 376.
Nonconformists, 199.
North Chatham, 586.
North Dennis, 690.
North Eastham, 352.
North Falmouth, 418, 429.
North Harwich, 493.
North Sandwich, 26.
North Truro, 538.
North Well fleet, 653.
Nullification, 235.
O.
Oath of fidelity, 61.
Obliquities of the age, 41.
Offices declined, 205,206,210,
217, 515.
Oil, of fishes, 50.
Order of incorporation, 8.
Ordinary licensed, 63.
Orleans, 403, 719,721, 724,
725.
situation, &c., 721.
incorporated, 725.
ministry, 726, 727, 731,732.
schools, 726.
meeting-house, 726.
Orleans, bounds, 725, 726.
patriotic, 728.
Methodists, 729.
Universalists, 730,731,732.
Baptists, 730, 731, 732.
its history involved with
E., 735.
Osborne, Rev. Samuel, cen-
sured, 391.
Osterville, 253.
IP.
Pamet, incorporated, 377.
settled, 376, 535, 542.
river, 573.
Pastoral fidelity, 190.
duty, 247.
Pawtucket fight, 272.
Peace, 131, 401, 508, 675, 729.
Permission to attend Qua-
ker meetings, 265.
Persecution defeats its end,
61.
Perversions of history, 305,
306, 331.
Physicians, 155, 233, 324.
Piracy, 602.
Pirate, Whidah, 384.
Poaching, 103.
Porasset, 28, 112.
Political action, 111-121, 222,
223, 304.
Political discourses, 186.
Political dissensions, 185,
221, 309.
Pond Village, 536.
Preface, 3.
Preference for Plymouth
Colony, 18.
Presidential course, 236.
Prices regulated, 126, 225,
314, 400.
Prince, his discouragements,
Privateer captured, 467.
Programme of the work, 3.
Progress, age of, 166.
Provincetown, 615, 617.
harbor, 618.
Ministry, 628, 630, 633,634,
640, 643.
meeting-house, 632, 634,
638.
neutrality, 63o.
Methodists, 639, 643.
patriotic, 641, 648.
Universalists, 642, 643.
schools, 644.
bridge, 644.
dike, 645.
custom-house, 646.
defences, 648.
landing-place of the Pil-
grims, 646.
Psalmody, 325, 394, 518.
Public worship, 198.
Purchases of Indians, 87,
Q.
Quakers, rise of, 57, 65.
their first arrival, 57.
name, 265.
petition, 111.
badly treated, 60, 62, 63,
264, 265.
Quakers, taxes remitted, 83,
93,204.211,438.
support of poor, 112.
R.
Rebellion, 165, 341,531, 612,
649,	767.
Records, destroyed, 179.
Refugees, 453.
ask to return, 130,136.
Religious dissensions, 48,56,
57, 70, 93, 95, 185, 262,
270, 294,510.
institutions, 45, 47.
liberty, 20, 82.
Remarkable preservation,
213.
Representatives, 168 239,575,
343, 413, 488, 532, 613,
650,	685, 718, 736, 768.
instructed, 116, 306, 321,
394, 399, 575, 671.
Revolutionary incident, 308.
Rock-Harbor, 724.
Ruling-Elders, 270, 294.
S.
Sachem of Manomet, 67.
Saconesset, associated with
Be., 425.
lands sought, 266.
Sacrifice rocks, 34.
Sagamore hill, 23.
Sandwich, 13, ’5, 77.
character of settlers, 18,
40.
incorporated, 21, 39, 42.
bounds, 21.
Indian name, 23.
preliminaries of settle-
ment, 38.
deed of, 48, 78.
Quaker protest, 73.
schools, 73, 83, 87, 89, 111.
singular project, 90.
burial-place, 64, 90.
burial-place of Friends, 83.
bounds, 84, 85, 86.
church difficulties, 96,
100-2.
church difficulties abated,
103.
mills, 53, 54, 64, 66, 71, 83,
100, 136.
Ministry, 69, 80, 81, 83, 92,
9*, 101, 102, 133, 135,
144, 145, 146, 149, 150,
151, 152, 153, 154, 155,
158, 161.
. Ministry, voluntary sup-
port Of, 108.
meeting-house, 45, 83, 85,
86, 90, 104.
meeting-house, arrange-
ments of, 104-7.
division of church, 96.
Friends, 161.
Pocasset Church, 112.
Methodists, 144, 147, 161.
Monument Church, 146,
15i, 161
Roman Catholics, 162.
Universalists, 154,161.
Baptists in Pocasset, 161.
Puritan Church, 154, 161.
Episcopal, 160.INDEX OF SUBJECTS.
791
Sandwich, political move-
ments, 111-121.
political grievances, 113.
tory-opposition, 115.
tory-opposition subdued,
124.
resolve to stop the royal
courts, 118.
patriotism ascendant, 119.
sustains the Congresses,
120.
pledge for Independence,
121.
approves a Confederation,
122.
approves the Constitution,
122.
division of town attempt-
ed, 13 7.
Academy, 138-142, 526,
727.
Salt works, 404, 421, 540,
580, 695, 729, 741.
Scauton, 26, 57.
Scraggy Neck, 134.
Seating congregations, 202,
211.
Secession, 235, 413.
Seekers, 185.
Select Courts, 197.
Separatists, 511, 515, 601.
Servants, 53.
Sicknesses, 408, 639, 729.
Silver-Spring, 352.
Sheep, provided for, 98, 590,
6.8.
Shipwreck, 86, 213, 384, 400,
405, 409, 647, 714.
Shumet, 421.
Skaket, 352.
Slavery of Indians, 72.
opposed, 115.
Small-pox, 122, 298, 396,639.
Snow, great, 149.
none, 152.
Sons of Cape Cod, 338.
South-Dermis, 691.
South-Harwich, 493.
South-Orleans* 724.
South-Sandwich, 30.
South- Truro, 538.
South- Well fleet, 653.
Spring-Hill, 25.
Stamp-Act, 109, 221.
Storm, remarkable, 145, 410,
572, 714.
Suicide, 196.
Subscribers, 781.
T.
Tar, manufactured, 166, 198,
369.
Teas, prohibited, 112, 223,
561, 562, 664.
Teaching-elder, 247.
Thacher, Dr. James, sur-
geon U. S. A., 335.
Thornton, Rev. T., dies, 205.
Tiflpo ICQ
Town-officers, 168, 239, 343, *
414, 488, 532, 575, 614,
650, 686, 718, 736, 768.
Trainings, 63.
Treat, Rev. Mr., dies, 381.
anecdote of, 382.
Truro, 533, 535, 538.
situation &c., 535.
settlement of, 541.
meeting-house, 536, 549,
552, 560.
schools, 541,550, 556, 560,
572, 573.
Ministry, 513 545,547,556,
558, 567, 569, 571.
lands purchased, 513.
proprietors, 516.
burial-place, 550, 561.
highways, 550.
patriotic, 561, 567.
ruse, 564.
votes for Independence,
565.
votes for Union, 566.
relieved by Peace, 568.
inhabitants set oft, 571.
calamity, 572.
North Precinct, 573.
break-water, 573.
XT.
Union with Massachusetts,
200, 279.
its policy, 280.
V.
Vicissitudes of sects, 144,
161.
Virginia-laws, 234.
W
Walley’s election sermon,
270.
portrait, remarks on, 774.
Waquoit, 221, 479.
War of 1812, 406.
incident, 408.
Warnings from town, 188,
189.
Wellfleet, 395, 651, 653,
657.
incorporated, 653, 657,660,
668.
situation, Ac., 653.
meeting-house, 657, 678,
683.
Ministry, 660,672,673,675,
676, 680, 6,>4.
schools, 660, 662, 663, 669,
679, 684, 685.
North Precinct, 659.
South Precinct, 659.
roads, 661, 662.
patriotic, 664, 666,676,681.
revolutionary trials, 669.
for Independence, 671.
disloyal men, 669.
Methodists, 677, 679, 682,
685.
West Barnstable, 251.
West Breu'ster, 739.
West Chatham, 586.
West Dennis, 691.
West Falmouth, 418.
West Harwich, 493.
West Sandwich, 22.
Whale-fishery, 51, 62, 64, 73,
82, 206, 355, 362, 394,
539, 630, 640, 655.
Whaling-song, 89.
Wolves, 136, 148, 324, 359,
370, 411, 463, 499, 555.
fenced-out, 90.
Woods-Hole, 419.
Y.
Yarmouth, 171,173.
incorporated, 180.
Ministry, 181, 182,186,188,
199, 200, 207, 208, 213,
214, 217, 218, 219, 220,
228, 231, 235.
lands, 83.
bounds, 187, 204, 209.
book of grants, 191.
soldiers, 193.
rates, 194.
meeting-house, 198, 202,
210.
schools, 201.
mill, 204, 206, 216.
stocks, 211.
East Precinct, 212, 214,
219, 220, 228.
Baptists, 218.
resolutions, 224.
instructions, 226.
South Precinct, 228, 232.
political sentiments, 228.INDEX OF NAMES
Adams, Rev. Hugh, 593,595.
Rev. Wm. H., 084.
Samuel, 157, d., 502.
Adolph, Peter, 80.
Alden, Rev. Timothy, Sr.,
221, 228, 231, d.
Rev. Timothy, Jr., 173,
170, 219.
Allen, Alden, 103, d.
Benjamin, 03.
Rev. Benjamin, 591.
Caleb, 08.
Daniel, 80, 111.
Francis, 44, 59, 68.
George, 10, 37, 45, 40.
George, Jr., 44, 59, 08, 111.
Holmes, 327, d.
J edediah, 59, 08.
John, 75,85.
John Jr., 82, 85, 111.
Joshua, 195.
Matthew, 44.
Moses, 135.
Ralph, 37, 40, 59, 68.
Richard, 83, 85.
Samuel, 44.
William, 46, 59, 68, 85.
Zachariah, 72.
Allyn, James, 295, d.
John, 244.
Nathan, 340, d.
Samuel, 271, 277, 284, d.
Samuel 290, d.
Thomas, 255, 271, 274, d.
Thomas, 28 i, d.
Almv, William, 15.
Andrews, John, 277.
Angier, Rev. S., 557.
Anuable, Anthony, 243, 255,
271, 272, d., 422, 424.
Samuel, 274, d., 295, d.
Thomas, 313.
Annis, Charles, 500.
A rev, Joshua, 103, d.
Armitage, Thomas, 16.
Arnold, Samuel, 187.
Asten, Robert, 502, d.
Atkins, Asa, 155, d.
Benjamin, 502.
Ebenezer, 043.
Freeman, 271.
George, 104, d.
Henrv, 359, 374, 554.
I saac; 507.
Isaiah, 554, 500, 502.
John. 043.
Joseph, 374, 500, 637, 642,
058.
Joshua, 554, 556, 559, 552,
598, 630.
Nathaniel, 374, 544, 550,
553.
Samuel, 507.
Silas, 554, 037, 644, d.
Thomas, 500.
William, 161.
Atwood, Ebenezer, 660, 672.
Eldad, 374.
Eleazar, 658.
Daniel, 374.
Freeman, 081.
Henry, 037.
James, 058, 662.
John, 629.
Joseph, 603.
Joshua, 038.
Machiel, 545, 551, 552, 554.
Richard, 058.
Samuel, 034,036.
Sears, 008, d.
Stephen, 359, 373, d., 374,
035, 037.
Avery, Job, 503.
Rev. John, 547, 554, 550,
557, d.
IB.
Babcock, Rev. D. H., 410.
Bacon, Eben., 327, d.
Edward, 302, 304, 314, 318,
3i9, 320, 321, 322, d.
Rev. Elisha, 335.
Isaac, 329, d., 030.
Jeremiah, 277, 284, d.
John, 293, d., 290, d.
Nathaniel, 255, 201, 271,
272, d., 422.
Nathaniel, Jr., 272, 279,
d., 292, 295, d.
Samuel, 204, 208, 290,
292, d., 302, d.
Thomas, 629.
Bailey, Rev. S., 571, 684.
Baker, Binney, 313.
Daniel, 195.*
Francis, 180, 195, 203, d.,
513.
Heman, 717, d.
Hiram, 717, d.
Isaiah, 699, 714, d.
James, 223.
Jeremiah, 713, d.
Jonathan, 290.
John, 195, 709, d., 717,Vd.
Josiah, 702, d.
Judah, 707, d., 708, d., 711,
Levi, 234.
Moses, 222, 223.
Nathaniel, 714, d.
Neheiniah, 195, 290, d.
Paul, 711, d.
Reuben, 702, d., 711, d.
Samuel, 277,017,099,714, d.
Seth, 71», d.
Rev. Silas, 571.
Sywanus, 714, d.
Thomas, 473, d.
Watson, 707, d.
William, 500, d.
Bangs, Allen, 714, d.
Benjamin, 518, d., 524,755,
d., 766, d.
Bangs, Eben., 525.
Edward, 348, 356, 359, 369,
d., 393, d., 494.498, 504,
500, 517, d., 554.
Elkanah, 702, a., 706, d.
Jonathan. 307,368, 374,389,
d., 490 499. 500,507, d.,
512, d., 700. 714, d.
Jonathan Jr., 391, d., 542,
554.
John, 307, 374.
John D., 524.
Joshua, 307, 374, 379, d.,
520.
Samuel, 504, 500, 510, d.
Seymour, 524.
Thomas, 525.
Barbour, Rev. J., 766.
Barker, Samuel. 444, 446.
Barlow, Benjamin, 74.
George, 60, 02, 63, 72, 169,
200.
Jesse, 121.
John, 73, 74, 83, 85.
Moses, 74.
Nathan, 82, 85, 101, d.
Stephen, 74.
Thomas, 111.
Barnaby, Rev. J., 527.
Barnes, Jonathan, 189.
Joshua. 181.
Peter, 380.
Bascom, Rev. Jonathan, 397,
727, d.
Timothy, 727.
Bassett, Barachiah, 450, 467,
d.
Elisha, 222, 223, 228„ d.,
700.
Francis, 688.
Rev. Isaac A., 684.
Jonathan, 108, 111.
Joseph, 217, d., 333, d.
Nathan, 313.
Nathaniel, 135, 195, 209,
d., 001.
Samuel, 709, d.
Stephen, 138, 146, d.
Thomas, 142, d.
William, 45, 59, 66, 67,
73, 74, 85, 92, d., 434,
438.
Batchelor, Rev. S., 179, 189,
200.
Bates, Rev. William, 484, d.
Batter. Thomas, 202, 210, d.
Battersly. James, 84, 86.
Baxter, Obed, 714, d., 718, d.
Shubael, 216.
Bearse, Austin, 255, 271,297,
d.
Benjamin, 296, d., 601, d«
Ebenezer, 299, d.
James, 299, d.
John. 300, d.
Samuel, 217, d.
Bea, Mr., 597.
Beauchampe, Mr., 37«
792INDEX OF NAMES.
793
Bell, John, 44.
Benjamin, Joseph, 195, 268.
Bennet, Mr., 293.
Bent, Rev. J., 4;3,474.
Berry, Anthony, 182,
Benjamin, 520, 762, d.
Edmund, 44.
Isaac. 222.
Jabez, 513.
John, 216. d., 317, d., 507.
Judah, 506, 524
Richard, 104, 257.
Samuel. 207, d., 507, 524.
Scotto, 525.
Theodore, 753.
Theophilus, 517..
Besse. Anthony, 16, 44, 45.
Nehemiah. 50, 68, 74, 85.
Bickford, Jeremiah, 5 3, 554.
Bills, Thomas, 202, 374.
William, 255.
Bisbe, Thomas. 245.
Bishop, Richard, :’>59.
Blachford, William, 298, d.,
320.	d.
Black, Miles, 44.
Blackwell Benjamin, 164, d.
John, 68, 85. o2.
Joshua, 73, 85.
Micali, 1 !S.
Michael, 50, 59, 67, 68, 85.
Samuel, 104, d.
Blakemore, John, 16, 42, 44.
Bliss, Abraham, 255, 271,
276, d.
George, 16, 54.
John, 313.
Joseph, 277, 292, d., 301,
314.
Blossom, Joseph, 300.
Samuel, 162, d.
Thomas, 257, 260.
Veter, 271, 422, 424.
Blower, Jonathan, 257.
Boardman, Thomas, 16, 44,
191, 201, d.
Bodlish, Behjamin, 300, d.
Isaac. 333, d.
Jonathan, 329, d.
John, 59, 68, 86.
Joseph, 205, d.
Jonah, 336, d.
Robinson C., 416.
Robert, 16, 44, 49.
Sylv’s, 326, d.
William, 123, 138, 141, 142,
d.
William Jr., 471, d.
Bonham, Nicholas, 268.
Boreman, Samuel, 272, d.
Bos worth, Hezekiah, 629.
Bourne, Benjamin, 156.
Charles, 163.
Elisha, 72, 74, 83, 85,87, d.,
136.
Ezra, 86, 92, 108, d., 439.
Henry, 162, d., 243, 255,
271, 276, d.
Job, 68.
Jonathan. 156, d.
John, 155, d., 446, 449.
Joseph, 439, 447.
Joshua, 439, d.
Meletiah, 92, 101, d., 138,
d., 317, d., 437, 670.
Nathan, 83, 85.
Richard, 16. 36, 42, 44, 47,
68, 69, 264, 331, d., 422.
Shearj., 73, 85, 316, 319,
321,	324, 670.
Bourne, Sylv’s, 301, d., 445.
Timothy, 83, 85, 128, d.,
469, d.
Thomas, 112.
Zuriel, 479, d.
Bowen, Rev. W., 529.
Bowerman, Abner, 164, d.
Daniel, 484, d.
Jeremiah, 151, d.
Samuel, 445.
Stephen, 446.
Thomas, 182, 195, 257, 423,
429, 430, 432, 435, 445.
Boyter, Rev. Charles, 572.
Bradford, Cornelius, 525.
Bray, Edmund, 222.
Thomas, 2'6, d.
Braybrook, William, 16.
Briggs, Rev Ephraim, 606.
Rev. Isaac, 608.
Jonathan, 16.
Samuel, 59, 68, 74.
Brookfield, Thomas, 54.
Brooks, Beriah, 507, 513,522,
d., 594.
Eben., 513, 512, d., 529, d ,
530, d.
Henry C., 490.
John, 513.
Obed, 5 .0, d.
Brown, Elisha, 681.
George, 374.
James, 666.
Samuel, 371, d., 374.
William, 374.
Bryant, Motto, 144, d.
Buck, John, 507.
Buit, George, 16* 44, 59, 68.
Bumpas, Thomas, 281.
Burgess, Benja., 439, 773, d.
Elisha, 150, d.
Ezekiel, 513.
Jacob, 45, 59, 68,85,91, d.
Jedediah, 711, d.
John, 53, 195, 196, 636.
Joseph, 59, 698.
Joshua, 68.
Moses, 704, d.
Nathaniel, 158, d.
Perez, 159, d.
Richard, 44.
Samuel, 513.
Thaddeus, 228, d.
Thomas, 16, 36, 44, 48, 59,
77. d., 161, d.
Thomas, 44, 126, 205, 513.
Zaccheus, 113.
Bursell, James, 182, 195.
Bursley, Jabez, 293, d.
Jonathan, 255, *58, 266, d.,
271, 290, d., 296, d.,
Burr, Rev. Jonathan, 134,
137,139,140,145, 153, d.
Bush, William, 638.
Butler, Daniel, 59, 72, 85,
446,44w.
Judah, 4-39.
Knowles, 485, d., 772.
Patrick, 512.
Thomas, 16, 44, 53, 59, 68.
Rev. Zebulon, 450, 452.
C.
•
Cahoon, James, 513.
John, 525.
William, 513, 525, 587.
Callicut, Mr., 243.
Carlton, Rev. H. 336,
VOL. II.	100
Carman, John, 15.
Carpenter, Dr. G. W., 578.
Caruthers, Rev. W., 161.
Caslev, Edward, 243.
John, 208, d., 255, 280.
Thomas, 317, d.
William, 243. 255, 256, 271.
Cliadwell, Richard, 15, 44,
f 5, 59, 64. 68, 74, d.
Chadwick, James, 73.
Chaffee, Rev. N. O., 764.
Chandler, Joseph, 63.
Chapman, David, 711, d.
Isaac, 220, 712, d.
John 223, 270, 271, 699,
7<>9, d.
Micah, 222.
Chase, Anthony, 232, d.
Ebenezer, 513.
Rev. Enoch, 522, 731.
Isaiah, 517.
Jeremiah, 512.
John, 195.
Lot, 714, d.
Richard, 218, 517, 601.
Samuel, 714, d.
William, 181, 187, 188,
d , 507,512.
William Jr., 182, 195,
199, d.
Cheever, Rev. E., 4r>2.
Child, Ebenezer, 295, 298, d.
James, 319, d.
Richard, 188, 285, 290, 326,
d.
Samuel, 272, d.
Thomas, 303, d.
Chillingsworth, Thomas, 16,
44.
Chipman, Barnabas, 297, d.
Jonathan, 161, d.
John, 73, 82, 85, 105, d.,
265, 266, 284, d , 424.
Joseph. 330, 332, d.
Samuel, 289, d., 290.
Timothy, 301, 303, d.
William, 666, 672.
Chrystie, James, 144, d.
Claghorn, Jabez, 330, d.
James, 19), 271.
Robert, 286, d., 296, d.
Shubael, 292, d.
Clap, Elisha, 14", 141.
Clarke, Andrew, 506, 513.
Benjamin, 526.
Edmund, 16, 44.
Elijah, 747.
Gideon, 5'5.
Isaac, 744, 749, 750, 753,
756,	d., 771.
Tsaiah, 747.
John, 205, 208, d.
Kimbal, 75 », 771.
Nathaniel, 505.
Rowland, 505, 509.
Scotto, 505.
Seth, 512, 601.
Solomon, 760, d.
Svlvs., 424.
Thomas, 494, 498, 504, 505,
50 , 507,518, d.
Clifford, Daniel P., 612, d.
Cobb, Rev. A.. 150, 153.
David, 199, d.
Eleazer, 272, 293, d.
Elijah, 746, 747, 751, 753,
757,	763, d., 766, d.
Elisha, 629, 664, 668, 671,
672.
Freeman, 763.T94
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Cobb, Gershom, 293, d.,
299, d.
Henry, 244, 247, 255, 261,
2 70, 271, 274, d., 422.
James, 268, 271, 281, d.,
424.
Jesse, 315, d.
Jonathan, 5<)6.
John, 298, d.
Joseph, 560, d.
Matthew, 3 to, d.
Nathaniel, 301, d.
Samuel, 291, d.
Thomas, 556, 560.
Coite, John, 181.
Coggin, Henry, 255.
Coggeswell, Rev. N., 230,
235.
Cole, Daniel, 182,359,373, d.,
374, 658.
George, 16.
Henry, 44.
Isaac, 542.
Israel, 367, 374, 443, 542,
543.
Job, is >, 359,
John, 374 , 387, d.
Joseph, 398.
Josiah 630.
Samuel, 374, 502, d.
Stephen, 5f*6.
Timothy. 374.
Thomas, 374.
Coleman, Edward, 268, 271,
281, 284, d.
James, 321, d.
Collins, Benjamin, 553,
557, 560.
Cyreneus, 771.
Gamaliel, 561, 643, d.
John, 574, d., 598, 600.
Joseph, 374.
Richard 557, 561.
Samuel, 603.
Conant, Charles, 313.
John, 554, 679, 634, 636.
Cook, Edward, 634, 636, 638.
Elijah N., 636.
Elisha, 63S.
Jonathan, 638, 642, 643, d.
John, 262, 265, 634, 638.
Josiah, 348, 356, 359, 366,
d., 374, 389, d., 551.
Lemuel, 642, d.
Pardon C., 038.
Richard, 648, d.
Samuel, 634, 038.
Solomon, 634, 636,638,644,
d.
Stephen, 647, d.
Coombs, liev. 3!r., 528.
Cooper, John, 244, 247, 255,
271, 2 5, d., 422.
Covel, Ebenezer, 155, 190,
610, d.
Ephraim, 507, 513, 660,
666, 672.
James, 603.
John, 597.
Nathaniel, 580.
William, 288.
Cotton, Rev. John, 199, 200,
203, 207, 203, d.
Josiah, 207.
Roland, 81., 82, 85,90, 92,
d., 591.
Roland, 105, 110, 435.
Rev. Theophilus, 545.
Cowet, Edward, 554.
Cox well, Henry, 255.
Crafts, Rev. E. P., 152.
Creppan, Thomas, 428.
Crisp, George, 359.
Crocker, Asa, 330, d.
Benjamin, 298, d., 647.
Rev. Benjamin, 516.
Benoni, 313.
Boston, 317, d.
Cornelius, 32*, 323, d.
Daniel, 327, d.
Ebenezer, 289, d., 325, 329,
d.
Eleazar, 279, d.
Francis, 257.
Frederick W., 341, d.
Henry, 534.
Jabez, 282, d.
Job. 271, 277, 288, d.
Jonathan, 290, 296, d., 304,
325, d.
John, 255, 268, 270, d., 271,
284, d., 304, d., 313,47S,
d.
Joseph, 278,289, d., 472, d.,
753.
Rev. Joseph, 391, 396, d.
Josiah, 212, d., 271, 277,
281, d., 289, d., 320, d.
Rev. Josiah, 2 9.
Loring, 335, d.
Naler, 332, d.
Nathaniel, 295, d.
Robinson, 459, d.
Samuel, 274, d., 314, 318,
322.
Seth, 302, d.
Timothy. 294, d., 459.
Thomas, 288, d., 292, d.,
316, 320, 439.
William, 244, 255, 266, 270,
271, 280, d., 295, d.,
316, 329, d.
Crosby, Barnabas, 710, d.
David H., 755, d.
Eleazar, 50(5.
Fr eman, 3:18.
James, 760, d.
.Joseph, 213, d.
Nathan, 761, d.
Nathaniel, 506, d.
Samuel, 506.
Simon, 494, 502, d.
Rev. Thomas, 358, 365.
Thomas, 374, 3s9, d., 494,
506, 507, d.
Wil iam, 5 6, 701, d.
Crowell, Aaron, 712, d.
Abner, 222, 223.
Benjamin, 716, d.
Christopher, 699, d.
David, 448, 710, d.
Edw., 195, 709, d., 717, d.
Enoch, 699, d.
Elisha, 712, d.
Ephraim, 512.
Freeman, 717, d.
Isaac, 713, d.
Isaiah, 714, d., 773, d.
James, 232, d.
Jeremiah, 217, d., 709, d.
John, 18 », 182, 192, d., 194,
195, 199, d., 210, d ,448,
480, d., 597, 710, d.
Joseph, 222, 446, 447, 604,
717, d.
Joshua, 448, 465, d., 703.
Judah, 235, d., 715, d.
Levi, 712, d.
Nathan, 708, d., 712, d.
Oliver, 717, d.
Crowell, Paul, 597.
Samuel, 194, d.
Solomon, 222.
Stephen, 448.
Sylvs., 230, d.
Thomas, 199, d., 215, *!.
Yelverton, 182, 194.
Cudworth, .James, 244, 245,
255, 265.
Cushing, Ezekiel, 629.
Rev. J., 628.
D.
Dally, Thomas, 69.
Damon, Rev. Jude, 138, 569,
571, d.
Davis, Abner, 334, d., 449.
475, d.
Barnabas, 720.
Benjamin, 448.
Daniel, 301, 308, 314, 320,
322, 324, 325, d.
Dolor, 255, 271, 272, d.,
281, d.
Frederick, 486, d.
Gersiiom, 302, 325, d.
Jab<*z, 448.
Jacob. 5i7.
James, 368, 313, 339, d.
Job C., 332, d.
Jonathan, 335, d.
John, 141, 257, 271, 294, d.,
331, d., 438.
Joseph, 292, d., 295, d., 301,
d., 309, d., 449.
Lothrop, 338, d.
Nathaniel, 446.
Nicholas, 257, 265, 266,269,
271.
Noah, 448, 449
Robert, 295, 3Q2, d , 629.
Solomon, 325,	d., 447,
480, d.
Stephen, 331, d., 482, d.
Sylvs., 404
Rev. Timothy, 474,680,682.
Wendell, 13s, 141 ? 149.
Deane, Thomas, 671-
Delano, Thomas, 629.
Delap, dames. 290.
Dennis, Rev. John, 517,
5i8.
Rev. Josiah, 213, 215, 219,
d., 697, 698, 699, d.
Robert, 182, 184.
Derby, John, 182,187.
Deville, Walter, 181.
Dexter, John, 73.
Joseph, 447.
Philip, 434, 439, 440, 441,
446, d.
Samuel, 212.
Thomas, 15, 45, 53, 59, 67,
68, 73, 78, d., 271.
William, 271.
Didicut, John, 42.
Dillingham, Branch, 145, d.
Edw., 15, 44, 66, 82, 85,
99, d., 111.
Ezra, 103, d.
Henry, 44, 59, 68, 85.
Isaac, 525.
John, 73, 74, 85, 188, 195,
495, 501, d., 504, 505,
513, d., 525, 742.
Joseph, 476, d.
I Simeon, 113, d.INDEX OF NAMES.
795
Dimroick, Braddock, 451,
470, d.
Ebenezer, 447.
John, 439, 444.
Joseph, 451, 452, 455, 464,
409, d.
Lot, 455, 408, d.
Shubael, 271.
Thomas, 243, 244, 255,
205, d.
Doane, Daniel, 307, 374, 5'3.
Elisha, 141,232, d., '<89,513,
029, 057, 058, 000, 003,
070.
Ephraim, 374, 542,029.
H email, 734, d.
Hezekiah, 545,029,058,664,
072.
Isaac, 374.
Isaiah, 070.
Israel, 371.
.John, 348, 359, 302, 307,
309, 370, d., 374, 379, d.
John 15., 232, d.
Joseph, 374, 383, 385, 500,
514.
Joshua. 497, 733, d.
Muses, 513.
Nathaniel, 513, 515.
Samuel, 394, d.
Thomas, 598.
William, 073, d.
Dods, Rev. J. 15., 043.
Donaldson, Hugh G., 407, d.
Dorr, James, 89.
Downs, Barnabas, 317.
James, 710, d.
Nathaniel, 519.
Drody, William, 145, d.
Duncan, Dr., 032.
Dunham, .Jonathan, 429.
John, 281, d., 422.
Dunster, Rev. I., 5^5,522, d.,
743.
Dyer, Ambrose, 554,506.
Elisha, 509, d., 017.
Henry, 554.
Jonathan, 551.
Judah. 554.
Samuel, 554.
Seth, 507.
Solomon, 500.
William, 551.
E.
Eastabrook, Lot, 340, d.
Ecles, Rev. N., 543.
Edge, William, 182.
Edwards, James, 275.
Eldred, Jehoshaphat, 446.
Jos., 588.
Nicholas, 587.
Robert, 19 , 580.
William, 195, 447, 587, 588.
Eldridge, Barnabas, 222, 003.
Daniel, 711, d.
Ebenezer, 598.
Eli, 710, d.
Elisha, 387.
Elnathan, 525.
Enoch, Rev., 304, 324.
Enos, 010, d.
Isaac, 513.
James, 594, 001, d.
John, 230, d , 598.
Jos iph, 012, d.
Reuben, 512, 513.
Eldridge, Samuel, 223, 525,
553, 554, 099.
William, 195, 512, 513,
605, d.
Ellis, Abner, 164, d.
Benjamin, 513.
Cornelius, 508, 513.
Ebenezer, 108, d.
Ephraim, 110, 133, d.
Freeman, 73, 74.
Gershom, 164, d.
Jacob, 505.
James, 517.
John, 44, 59, 60, 68, 72, d.,
5 3, 594.
Joseph, 513.
Josiah, 147, d.
Joshua, 513.
Malachi, 124, 144, d.
Manoah, 74.
Matthias, 74, 85, 102, d.
Mordecai, 72, 74, 82, 85,90,
d., 105, 113.
Samuel, 135, d., 513.
Else, Roger, 182.
Emery, John, 004.
Rev. Stephen, 000, 605, d.
Ewell, Henry, 244, 257.
Ewer, Henrv, 10, 41.
John, 126,'300.
Lazarus, 151, d.
Lemuel, 104, d.
Thomas, 53, 60, 208, 424,
427.
E.
Falland, Thomas, 182, 195,
202, 200, 580.
William, 194.
Farris, Benjamin, 717, d.
Faunce, James, 135, d.
William, 153, d.
Feake, Henrv, 10, 44, 51.
Fessenden, Benjamin, Rev.,
09, 92, 100, 10J, d.
Benjamin, 111, 125, 133, d.
Samuel, 135, 103, d.
Thomas, 156, d.
William, 138. 154, d.
William, Dr., 522,	d.,
755, d.
Finney, John, 195, 423.
Fish, Ambrose, 08, 74.
Ansel, 104.
Jonathan, 10, 44, 51.
John, 10, 44, 74, 85.
Joshua, 105.
Lemuel, 101, d.
Nathan, 439.
Nathaniel, 10, 44, 53, 59,
08, 113, 129.
Phineas, Rev., 159, d., 335,
337.
Samuel, 449.
Simeon, 113.
Theodore, 101.
Thomas, 478, d.
Firzrandal, Edward, 244,255.
Nathaniel, 271.
Flawne, Thomas, 182.
Fleteher, John, 500.
Foster, Benjamin, 750,
703, d.
Charles, 504.
Chillingsworth, 500, 501,
502, 500.
David, 753.
Edward, 245.
Freeman, 747, 750, 753.
Foster, Isaac, 750, 765, d.
Solomon, 108, 110, 111.
Foxweil, Jonathan, 257.
Richard, 255.
Robert, 296, d.
Freeman, Abner, 731, d.
Alice, 42.
Barnabas, 398, 400, 401, d.,
037, 003.
Benjamin, 147, d., 504,500,
5 9, 520.
Constant, 374,543,550,552,
554, 555, d., 559, d.,
571, d.
David, 033.
Edmund, 15, 30, 44, 49, 57,
59, 07, 08, 75, d., 85,
103, d., 307,374,382, d.,
504, 5 0, 522, d., 730, d.
Elkanah, 750, 751, 701, d.
George W., lit. liev., 14.
Gorham L., 757, d.
Hatch, 701, d.
Hatsuld, 505.
Hezekiah, 770.
James, 135, 138, 146, d.
Jonathan, 501, d., 701, d.
John, 44, 59, 123, 192, ;159,
304,367, 371, 374, 384,
d., 385, d., 494,501,502,
504, 500, 520, 580, 057,
705, d.
Joseph, 503, 500, 513.
Josiah, 731, d.
Joshua, 557, 502, 506, 569,
d., 762, d.
Lemuel, 151, d.
Nathan, 043.
Nathaniel, 113, 115, 116,
120, 129, 137, d., 139,
145, 374, 385, 388, 504,
500, 509, d., 670, 750, d.
Prince, 505.
Rufus, 465, d.
Russell, 147, 153, d.
Samuel, 135, 303, 307, 368,
374, 380, d., 383, 385,
392,d., 409, d.
Scotto, 524, 527, d
Seth, 113, 122, 126, 144, d.,
147, d., 525, 758, d.,
700, d.
Shadrach, 159, d.
Solomon, 346,519,520,744,
753, 757, d.
Stephen, 374.
Thomas, 501, d., 502, d.,
307, 374, 494, 518, d.,
629.
Watson, 22, 500.
William, 145, d., 369, d.f
374, 504, 500.
William J., 152, d.
Friend, John, 10.
Fry, Anthony, 191, 195.
Fuller, Eleazar, 485, d.
John, 271, 279, d., 324.
Joseph, 154, d.
Matthew, 205, 271,272,324,
422.
Nathaniel, 152, d.
Olive, 470, d.
Samuel, 244, 268, 271, 422,
424.
Gr.
Gage, James, 513, 517.
Lot, 513.
Matthew, 507, 513, 517.796
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Gage, Thomas, 180,195, 513.
Garrett, Jesse, 317, d.
Gaunt, Israel, 74, 82.
Peter, 16, 36, 41, 44, 59, 68.
Gibbs, Benjamin, 85, 155, d.
Caleb, 155, d.
Charles, 147, d.
Elisha, 154, d.
Freeman, 158, d.
John, 59, 68, 73, 85.
Nathan B., 156, d.
Pelham, 159, d.
Samuel, 74, 85, 96, d.
Thomas, 44, 59, 68, 72, 73,
74, *5, 164, d.
Gibson, Michael, 554.
Gilford, Christopher,82,431.
Elisha, 479, d.
Gideon, 4 54.
Jesse, 472, d.
John, 72,74,84,85,431,439.
Josiah, 111.
Justus, 445.
Melatiah, 486, d.
Paul, 135.
Prince, 480, d.
Reuben, 448.
Robinson, 475, d.
Samuel, 82, 85, ill.
Seth. 445.
Silas, 164, d.
William, 48, 59, 68, 426,
427, 431, 445.
Godfrey, Bepjamin, 604,
612, d.
David, * 09, d., 610, d.
George, 587r 588.
Jonathan, 599.
John, 20203.
Moses, 588.
Richard, 506, 509.
Goodhue, Rev. II. A., 340.
Goodspeed, Benjamin, 281,
293.
Charles, 155, d.
Ebenezer, 281.
Harrison, 479, d.
John, 271, 277, 281.
Nathaniel, 271.
Roger, 255, 271.
Walley, 151, d.
Goodwin, Rev. E. S., 145,
150, d.
Gore, Rev. John, 436.
Gorham, Benjamin, 315.
David, 319, 32Q, 717, d.
Jabez, 195.
James, 277.
John, 186,193, d., 195, 271,
273, d., 295.
Lot, 709, d.
Shubael, 203.
Sturgis, 309, 319, 324.
Gosnold, Bart., 672.
Gould, John, 524.
Joseph, 524.
Nathaniel, 506.
Granse, William, 182.
Grannis, John, 449, 452.
Grav, Anthony, 744.
John, 182, 491, 496, 498,
500, 504, 630.
Joshua, 224, 225, 227, d.,
509, d , 525.
Lot, 505, 513, 758, d.
Richard, 551.
William, 195, 504, 507, d.,
513.
Green, Isaac, 441.
Isaiah L. 332, d.
Green, Jonathan, 478, d.
John, 44.
Joseph, Sr., Rev., 290,294,
302, d., 633.
Joseph, Jr., Rev., 219,
221, d.
Lemuel, 478, d.
William, 440, 446, 455.
Greenbill, Thomas, 68.
Greenlield, Thomas, 44, 59.
Greenleaf, Daniel, Rev., 208,
2i0, 2i2, 214, 594, 697.
Greenough, David S., 670.
John, 662, 6(»5, 666, 608,
»v0, 672, 673, 674, d.
Greenwood, A. Rev., 333,
335.
Griffin, William, 195.
Griffith, Barnabas, 524.
Joseph, 223.
Stephen, 506, 524.
Gross, Hincks, 682, d.
Israel, 7,2.
Jaazaniah, 571, 772.
Micah, 552, 637, 772.
Thomas, 683.
William, 587.
H.
Hadaway, Jonathan, 195.
Thomas, 293.
Hall, Atherton, 700.
Barnabas, 709, d., 714, d.
Benjamin, 704, 712, d.
Christopher, 717, d.
• Daniel, 710, d., 220,221, d.,
317, d., 699.
David, 388, d.
Ebenezer, 216, d.
Edw., 506, 507, d., 513,
519, 522, d.
Elisha, 207, 717.
Enoch, 711, d.
Gershom, 194,196,500,506,
507, d., 5i3, 587, 589,
595.
Henry, 704, 714, d.
Isaiah, 701, 70S, d.
James, 229, d.
Jonathan, 506, 513.
John, 192, 195, 203, d., 209,
d., 255.
Joseph, 195, 195, 215, d.,
698, 699, 704.
Joshua, 137.
Josiah, 704, 707, d.
Judah, 598, 704.
Nathan, 704.
Nathaniel, 191, 195.
Peter, 717, d.
Reuben, 717, d.
Samuel, 192, 195, 196, 202,
d., 504, 506, 507, d.
Seth, 125.
Stephen, 704, d.
Thomas, 708.
Thomas L., 196.
Hallet, Andrew, 16, 181, 182,
191, 195, 199, d., 217, d.
Benjamin, 336, d.
Benjamin F., 339, d.
Charles, 230, d., 232, d.
Ebenezer, 207.
Edward, 228, d.
Enoch, 222, 227, d.
Frederick, 235, d.
George, 232, d.
Isaac, 222, 224.
Hallet, Jonathan, 201, 207,
208,211, d., 230, d., 313.
John, 201, 208, 598.
Joseph, 271, 305, 316, 323,
327, d.
Joshua, 235, d.
Josiah, 186.
Lot, 699.
Moses, 230, d.
Samuel, 182, 184, d., 260.
Stephen, 222.
Hamblen, Bart., 271.
Benjamin, 288, d.
Ebenezer, 302.
James, 255, 268, 271, 275,
277, 279, d., 424.
John, 340, d.
Svlvanus, 479, d.
Thomas, 161, d.
Hamilton, Daniel, 589.
Martha, 476, d.
Thomas, 603.
Hammond, Benjamin, 68,72,
182.
John, 448.
Samuel, 74.
Hampton, Thomas, 16.
Hanbury, Peter, 44.
Handy, Jonathan, 120, 126.
Nymphas, 163, d.
Richard, 74, 85.
William, 123, 157, d.
Harding, Ephraim, 502, 565.
Hezekiah, 562, 565.
Joseph, 358, 367, 374, 587.
Josiah, 374.
Meziah, 374, 599.
Nathaniel, 562.
Hardy, Isaac, 610, d.
Rev. S., 4:0.
Harlow, William, 16.
Rev. William, 331, 332.
Harper, Robert, 53, 59, 68,
428.
Stephen, 434, 445.
Harpur, Dr. John, 141.
Hatch, Benjamin, 431, 438,
439, 486, d., 506.
Ebenezer, 447.
Foster, 473, d.
Ichabod, 468, d.
Jonathan, 423, 427, 430,
431, 434.
Jeremiah, 629.
Joseph, 428, 429, 434, 436,
438, 474, d., 479, d.
Moses, 431. 432, 437, 453,
475, d., 478, d., 482, d.
Major, 477, d.
Noah, 480, d
Paul, 417.
Samuel, 662.
Shubael, 474, d.
Silas, 447.
Solomon, 447.
Svlvanus, 433, 448.
Thacher L., 483, d.
Thomas, 181, 255.
Hawes, Edmund, 191, 193,
194, 195, 196, 202, d.,
313, 580.
John, 195, 196, 206, d., 603.
Joseph, 217, d.
Prince, 217, d., 3.’0.
Hawley, Gideon, Rev., 69,
121, 1.9, d.
Gideon, 144, !56, d.
Haven, Jos., Rev., 707, 710.
Hayes, A., Rev., 335.
Hayward, O., Rev., 328,32aINDEX OF NAMES.
797
Headly, P. C., Rev., 158,161.
Hebard, F., Rev., 530.
Hedge, Abraham, 189, 195.
Elisha, 191, 195.
James, 2-33, d.
Tristram, 190, 580.
William, 10, 186.
Hersey, Abner, 305, 324, d.
Henry, Rev., 330, 333.
Hickes, Samuel, 268, 357.
Higgins, Benjamin, 367, 371,
d., 374.
Beriah, 681.
Elisha, 630.
Ichabod, 374, 388, d.
Jonathan, 307, 374, 606.
John, 374.
Joseph, 374, 664, 668, 672,
085, d.
Reuben, 506.
Richard, 348, 357, 359.
Thomas, 307, 081.
Hilliard, Jonathan, 658.
Stephen, 644, d.
^mothv, Rev., 303, 321.
Hincklev, Allen, 574, d.
David; 34', d.
Ebenezer, 289 d.
George, 277.
Isaac, 3! 8, 320.
James, 460, d.
John, 271, 284, d., 296. 302,
d.
Samuel, 244, 255, 271, 281,
d., 314, 318, 321, 322,
422.
Sylvanus, 327, d.
Thomas, 255, 261, 271, 279,
283, d., 422, 513, 580.
Hi neks, Samuel, 561.
Hoar, Richard, 182.
Hobart, Nehemiah, Rev.,
380.
Holbrook, Elisha, 658, 662.
Ezekiel, 004, 077, d.
Joseph, 681.
Naaman,004, 071.
Thomas, 078, d.
Holland, Thomas, 181.
Holmes, C., Rev., 700, 707, d.
Hohvay, Bnrnabus, 161, d.
Gideon, 150, d.
John, 154, d.
Joseph, 10, 44, 59. 67, 08,
83, 85, 155, d.
Stephen, 150, d.
Homer, Stephen, 713, d.
Hooker, H. B , Rev., 474.
Hopkins, Benjamin, 500.
Caleb, 542, 554.
Constant, 501.
Elkanah, 524.
Giles, 359.
Joseph, 504, 506, 524, 672.
Joshua, 307, 374, 500.
Judah, 504, 500.
Nathan, 520.
Nathaniel, 500.
Samuel, 500.
Stephen, 179, 367, 374, 384,
d., 491, 500, 502, d.,
504, 500, 508, d.
Zoeth, 524.
Horton, Zebina, 708, d.
Howes, Abram, 708, d.
Alexander, 714, d.
Anthony, 700.
Barnabas, 317.
Collins, 704.
Daniel, 598, 704, 707.
Howes, David, 712, d., 714,d.
Elisha, 704.
Elkanah, 709, d., 717, d.
Isaiah, 712, d.
James, 222, 710, d.
Jeremiah, 191, 193,195,196,
d., 208, d., 700, 704, 709,
d., 714, d.
Jonathan, 1.8, 222, 712, d.
John, 215, d.
Joseph, 192, 194, 195, 190,
203, d., 60S, 700, 700, d.
Joshua, 2 0, d., 7i0, d.
Josiah, 707, d.
Levi, 709, d.
Lothrop, 717, d.
Mulford, Oil, 090, d.
Nathaniel, 210, d., 097,709,
d.	’
Obed, 712, d.
(>ren, 712, d.
Prince, 711, d.
Samuel, 195, 19,0, 213, d.,
611, d., 702, 709, d.
Stephen, 711, d.
Thomas, 180, 182, 189, d.,
191, 194, 215, d., 589,
O’O, d.
Uriel, 717, d.
William, 707, d.
Howland, Jason, 341, d.
Job, 213.
John, 208,2*1,277,293,422.
Nathaniel, 313.
Hoxie, Barnabas, 111.
Edward, 59.
Gideon, S3, 85, 111.
He 'ekiah, 103.
Lodowick, 59, 72, 85.
Joseph, 82, 103, 104.
Huckins, John, 271, 274, d.
Thomas, 255, 261, 20 5, 271,
274, d.
Hull, John, 255.
Joseph, Rev., 189,243,246,
250, 427, 428. X & <o -
Tristram, 182, 209.
Hunn, D. L., Rev., 140, 149.
Hurd, Ebenezer, 551.
John, 506.
Hurst, William, 16.
I.
Isum, John, 281.
J.
•Jackson, Samuel, 255.
Jaquesh, Mr., 21<>.
Jenrie, Hannah, 551.
Jenkins, Charles, 338, d.
Charles W., 424,431,480, d.
Ebenezer, 305, 3 8, 3'4.
John, 54, 59, OS, 271,294, d.,
4 *2, 424, 420, 427, 430,
4 9, 484, d.
Weston, 467.
Zachariah, 80.
Zeth., 82.
Jennings, John, 85.
Samii' l, 87, P'8, d., 439.
Jewett, l\, Rev., 473.
Johnson. Daniel, Rev., 727,
730.
Jonathan, 434.
John, 44.
Thomas, 44,51, 59,427,129.
William, 434, 438.
Jones, Francis, 359, d.
Jed., 5*21.
Jeremiah, 195, 208, d.
John, 158, d.
Ralph, 63, 271.
Samuel, 195
Silas, 476, d.
Sylvanus, 124.
Teage, 182, 194.
Thomas, 138, 453, 468, d.
Joyce, Hosea, 195, 201.
Jeremiah, 216.
John, 16, 44, 182, 190, d.
K.
Kelley, Allen, 702.
Cyrenius, 713, d.
David, 338, d., 709, d.
Elilm, 714, d.
Elisha, 714, d.
John, 517, 712, d.
Joseph, 711, d.
Nohemiah, 717, d.
Richard, 340, d., 717, d.
Seth, 5 7, 634.
Kemp, Robert, 681.
Kenrick, Daniel, Rev., 713.
Edward, 5 >6.
John, 732, d.
Kent, William, 602, d.
Iverbv, Richard, 17, 36, 41,
*44 5*.
Kilburn,’ David, 638.
Jonathan, 048, d.
John, 034.
Thomas, 034, 030.
Kimbal, .T. P., Rev., 4*5.
King, John, 175,494,5 5,506.
Ro rer, 500.
Kinncv, .Jesse, 524.
.John, 03 *, 037.
Knott, George, 15,44, 46,59.
Samuel, 08, 85.
Knowles, Amos, 400.
Edward, 388.
Harding, 409, d.
Tsaiah, 405.
John, 383, 390.
Joshua, 500.
Richard, 359, 3*3, 596.
Samuel, 283, 374, 393, d-
497.
Silas, 638.
Simeon, 39'k
Krogmau, Francis, 411, d.
JLj.
Lacy, Benjamin, 048, d.
Lake, Richard, 195, 467, d.
Landers, Amos, 445.
John, 80. 99, d., 445.
Richard, 82, 434, 439, 415.
Seled, 108.
Thomas, 17, 44,59, 08.
T^atimer, John, Rev., 590.
Lawrence, David, 322, d.
John, 404, 400, d.
Joseph, 120.
Pele^r, 04, d.
Samuel, S5.
Shubael, 402, 475, d.
Solomon, 48.3, d.
Thomas 483, d.
Legg, Daniel, 440, 597.
Leonard, Jonathan, Dr., 139
141, 155, d.798
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY
Levericli, William, Rev., 17,
38, 44, 45, 47, 51, 52,55,
69, 185.
Lewis. Benjamin. 434, 438,
5'>0.
David, 481, el.
Ebenezer, 478, d.
Edward, 08,271,281.
George, 244, 255, 209, d.,
271, 274, 284, d., 305.
Isaiah, Rev., 389, 392, 558,
001, 071. 072, 073, 074,
0 5, 070, d.
Jabez, 500, 507, d.
James, 271, 428, 434.
James D., Rev., 475, 477,
4*0, d.
John, 208, 271, 272, d., 274,
281, 290, ro4.
Lothrop, 47 i, d.
Nathan, 440.
Nathaniel, 321, 480, d.
Samuel, 437, 438, 481, d.
Thomas, 27i, 281, 420, 4.7,
431,432, 594.
Winslow, 404, d., 004, 072.
Lincoln, Henry, Rev., 138,
4 53, 471,483, d.
Isaac, 700, el.
Jonathan, 500.
Nathaniel, 700, d.
Seth,75 , d.
Svlvanus, 757, d.
Linnel, David, 257, 201, 271.
Jonathan, 374, 387, d.
John, 28!.
Robert, 244, 255.
Samuel, 273, d.
Thomas, 534.
Litchfield, Lawrence, 255.
Loinbar i, Barnard, 255, 271.
Benjamin, 271, 3«.8.
Caleb, 208, 271.
Elisha, 295.
Israel, 570, 574, d.
Jabez, 2**S, 2.1.
Jed., 271, 548, 554.
Joshua, 201, 271, 281, 290,
d.
Parker, 330.
Richard, 244.
Solomon, 507, 630, 633.
Thomas, 254, 201, 208, d.,
271.
Long, Edmund, 524.
William, 5 >0, 513, 524.
Lord, Joseph, Rev., 595,596,
599, d.
Loring, William, 161, d.
Lothrop, Barnabas, 271, 274,
277, 280.
Benjamin, 257.
Davis, Rev., 529, 608.
Ebenezer, 313.
Hope, 4 15.
James, 257.
James L., 340, d.
Jonathan, 3 7, d.
John, Rev., 243, 247, 255,
202, d., 271, 272.
John, 291, d.
Joseph, 2 >2, 71,281, 324.
Melatiah, 271, 278, 285, d.
Samuel, 257.
Seth, 313.
Thomas, 255, 271, 424.
Lovell, Andrew, 281, 332, d.
Cornelius, 313.
Daniel, 331, d., 333, d.
George, 338, d.
Lovell, James, 281, 293.
John, 231.
Lazarus. 300.
William, 281, 297, d.
Lucas, H., Rev., 332.
Lumpkin, William, 181, 182,
190.
m:.
McLnne, A., Rev., 040.
Macy. Thomas, 279, 281.
Maker, Benjamin, 5 6, 513.
James, 195, 389, d.
John, 500.
Joseph, 201, 513.
Mann, Rev. J., 400 402, d.
Mareliant, Abisha, 195.
John, 195.
Marshall, Rev. Josiah, 443,
444.
Miirston, Benjamin, 297.
Nvmphas, 3'd, 309, 314,
318, 32’, 322, 324, d.
Matthews, Benjamin, 202,
210, d.
Edward, 052.
Isaac, 223, 22 5.
James, 182, 194,195,233, d.
Jonathan, 235, d.
John 195, 216, 225. d.
Marmaduke, Rev., 180,1S2.
Nathan, 242.
Prince, 218, d., 23’>, d.
Samuel, 194, 216, 232, d.
Thomas, 714, d.
William, 215, d.
Mayo, Albert, 766, d.
Asa, 749, 757, d.
Daniel, 374, 602.
James, 374.
Jeremiah, 058, 750.
John, Rev., 194, d., 195,
240, 247, 255, 357, 358,
359.
John, 374, 378, d., 499, 504,
5 0, 5 7, d.
Joseph, 500
Joshua A., 037.
Nathaniel, 257, 359, 302,
d., 374, 379, d.
Richard, 599, d.
Thomas, 374, 389, d., 758, d.
Meigs, Josiah, 150, d.
Mellen, Rev. John, 321, 326.
Merrick, Benjamin, 495.
Isaac, 534.
Rev. J. M., 150, 152.
John, 552.
Jos-ph, 374, 391, d.
Joshua, 505.
Nathaniel, 502, 500, 510, d.
Stephen, 374, 500, 597, d.
Thomas, 374.
William, 359, 365, d., 367,
'70, d., 494, 498, 507, d.
Merrill, Rev. Joseph, 084.
Merrihew, John, 195.
Metcalfe, Rev. Joseph, 430,
438, 440, 442 d.
Michal, Richard, 195.
Miller, Rev. John, 17, 184,
180, 2i5, d.
John, 187, 190, 191,193,194,
190, 2;0, d.
Josiah, 215. d.
William, 637.
Mills, Rev. Jonathan, 518,
d., 633.
Mills, Steven, 571.
Moran, Rev. William, 161.
Morrill, Rev. William, 19,49.
Morse, Theodore, 448.
Mulford, John, 375.
Thomas, 375, 544, 548, 553.
Munroe, Rev. Calvin, 607.
John, 332.
IN'.
Nelson, William, 425.
Newcomb, Andrew, 554.
David, 034.
Elisha, 602.
Lemuel, 681.
Silas, 034.
Thomas, 702, d.
William, 98, d.
; Newell, Rev. F. R., 763.
Newland, John, 36, 44, 59,
69.
William, 17, 36, 44, 59, 62,
67.
Nichols, Thomas, 44.
Nickerson, Allen, 638.
Amasa, 5 0, 772.
Barnabas, 513.
Benjamin, 5i3.
Caleb, 601, d., 606, d., 609,
d.
David, 598, 717, 750, 756, d.
Ebenezer, 500,525,601,637,
647, d., 709, d.
Edmund, 638.
Edward, 5 i3,525.
Eleazar, 710, d.
Elijah, 630, 038.
Elisha, 513.
Elizur, 034, 699.
Enos, 038.
Ensign, 009, d.
Frederick, 717, d.
George, 038.
Isaac, 513.
Isaiah, 718, d.
James, 709, d., 638.
Jonathan, 716, d., 038.
John, 210, d., 5,3, 580, 698,
707, d., 7u9, d.
Joseph, 500, 500, 580, 5S7,
038.
Joshua, 513, d.
Josiah, 506, 638, 640, d.,
710, d.
Nathan, 638.
Nathaniel, 447, 642, d.
Nehemiah, 034.
Nicholas, 195, 580.
Phineas, 034, 0 0.
Robert, 501, 580.
Salat liiel, 011, d.
Samuel, 500, 513, 580.
Seth, 6 54, 030, 638.
Stephen, 018.
Svlvanus, 712, d.
Thomas, 5*9,602, d., 044, d.
Uriel, 524.
William, 182, 187, 189, 190,
207, d., 500, 579, 580,
587, 588, 00!, d., 638.
Noble, Rev. E., 573.
Norman, Hugh, 182.
Norris, Oliver, 82, 85.
, Northcoat, William, 182.
Nye, Barnabas, 158, d.
Benjamin, 17, 4i, 59, 69,
85, 434, 478, d.
Caleb, 74, 85.INDEX OF NAMES.
799
Nve, David, 469, d.
Ebenezer, 74, 430, 434, 449,
480 d. v.
Elisha, 451.
Elnathan, 440, 410.
Jonathan, 74, 85.
John, 85, 139, d., 430, 439,
449, 453.
Joseph, 113, 120, 154, d.,
103, d., 519.
Levi, 151, d.
Lot, 115, 120, 120, 322.
Moses, 104, d.
Nathan, 74, 85, 102, d., 135.
Peleg, 120.
Prince, 155. d.
Samuel, 408, d.
Seth F., 147, 103, d.
Shuhaei, 448.
Solomon, 447, 409, d.
Stephen, 110, 113, 120, 143,
d.
Sturgis, 139, d.
Svlvanus, 120.
Timothv, 48 4, d., COO.
Thomas, 120, 135, 150, d.
William, 23.
Zenas, 137.
Nutting, Samuel, GOG.
O.
Oakes, Rev. J., 380.
O’Brian, 749.
O’Kelia, David, 194.
Orcutt, Reuben, 038.
Osborn, Rev. S., 89, 383, 391,
500, 743.
Otis, Rev. E., 405.
James, 302, 304, 317, d.
James Jr., 252.
John, 271, 439.
Joseph, 305, 308, 313, 320,
321, 322, 327, d.
Nathaniel, 88, 99, d.
Solomon, 317, d.
d?.
Packard, Rev. A., 070.
Paddock, Ebenezer, 714, d.
John, 212, d., 098.
Judah, 212,-d., 097, 704,
710, d., 715, d.
Samuel, 709, d.
Zachariah, 195, 190, 201,
211, d., 214.
Paddy, William, 37, 42, 257.
Paine, Barnabas, 550, 557,
559, d.. 573, d.
Ebenezer, 505, 513, 573, d.
Elisha, 278, 37 , 510,
Elkanah, 554.
Henry, 044.
Isaac, 570, d.
James, 519.
Jedediah, 507.
Jonathan, 5o2, 553, 554,
559, d.
John, 307, 375, 380, 385,
389, d.
Joseph, 375, 380, d., 494,
498, 499, d., 500.
Joshua, 552.
Moses, 554, 500, d.
Nicholas, 375.
Phineas 048, d.
Samuel, 375, o80, d.
Thomas, 180, 182, 188, 277,
359, 307, 375, 378, d.,
398, 400, d., 542, 551,
552, 553, d., 570, d,,
001, d.
William, 390.
Palfrey, J. G., 241.
Palmer, Joseph, 449, 455, d.
Samuel, Rev., 444, 449, d.
Thomas, 45', d.
William, 51, 181, 182.
Parker, Benjamin, 446, 447.
Daniel, 292, cl.
Ephraim, 447, d.
Frederick, 472, d.
Freeman, 3l3.
Job, 450, 453, 400, d.
Joseph, 431, 434. 4‘<7, 444,
415, d., 447, a., 451.
Robert, 271, 274, d.
Samuel, Rev., 033,037,042,
d.
Seth, 440, 408, d.
Svlvanus, 448.
Thomas, 43!, 438, 439, 448.
William, 244.
Parse, Joseph, 002.
Joshua, 034.
Parslow, Wiiliam, 495.
Patten, Robert, 17.
Pearse, William, 257.
Pease, Rev. G., 154.
Pell, Rev. E., 514, 510, d.
Penev, John, 5;3.
William, 182, 500, 513.
Pepper, Isaac, 307, 385.
Joseph, 403.
Solomon, 397, 400.
Percival, James, 428.
John, 114, j55, d., 339.
Perry, Benjamin, 80.
Edward, 50, 07, 09, 85.
Elisha, >53. d.
Ezra, 45, 72, 74, 85.
John, 74, 80, 120.
Moses, 108,
Richard, 034, 038.
Samuel, 82, 83, SO.
Solomon, 159, d.
Svlvanus, 154, d.
Thomas, 159, d.
William, 154, d.
Phillips, Benjamin, 500, 587.
Joseph, 5 3.
Micah, 513.
(lakes, 513.
Phinnoy, Eli, 305, 308.
Gershom, 500.
John, 271, 277, 281, 292,
290, d.
Philip, 473, cl.
Samuel, 4s0, d.
Timothv, 325, 333, d.
Pierce, Abm., 422.
Pierpont, Rev. Mr., 181.
Pike, George, 551, 554.
Pitts, Joseph, 440.
Pope, Elisha, 114, 135, 142,
d., 147, 104, d.
John, 80, 135.
Joseph H., 104, d.
Lemuel, 135.
Seth, 101, d.
Thomas, 152, d.
William, 154, d.
Pratt, Rev. E., 327, 333, 410,
700, d.
Rev. S., 410, 731.
Prence, Gov., 246, 348, 350,
359, 363.
Presbury, John, 44.
Price, Solomon, 448.
Prince, Samuel, 75, 77, 86.
Thomas, Rev., 1, 8, G9, 87,
195, 2> 6.
Pritchard, Richard, 182.
Pugsley, John, 195.
Purington, Hezekiah, 545,
540.
Humphrey, 554.
R,.
Ransom, Alexander, 738.
Robert, 53.
Rawson, Rev. G., 218, 219.
Raymond, Rev. S., 007.
lleed, John, 235.
Kemick, Abm., 375.
Rich, Ebenezer, 505.
Hezekiah, 081.
John, 390, 557, 501.
Joseph, 375.
Obaclian, 570.
Reuben, 05s, 060.
Richard, 554, 500.
Thatcher, 502.
Zaccheus, 571.
Ridley, Mark, 271.
Thomas, 555.
Rigcrs, Rev. 1\, 335.
Robbins, Eleazar, 513.
Roberts, Thomas, 359.
Robey, Rev. J., 102.
Robinson, Albert, 472, d.
Isaac, 244, 255, 205, 260,
272, 283, 422, 423, 425.
John, 427, 434,437,404,482.
Joseph, 43s, 447, 449.
Rowland, 448.
Tim >t,hy, 433, 441, 443.
Walley, 471, d.
Roby, Rev. Thomas, 605.
Rockwell, Rev. C., 008.
Rogers, Daniel, 524.
Ebenezer, 500.
Eleazar, 500.
Enos, 524.
James, 309, d., 375, 393, d.
John, 92, 103, 307, 500, 509,
d., 580.
Joseph, 359, 301, d , 369, d.
Judah, 500, 733, d.
Moses, 480, cl.
Reuben, 524.
Samuel, 717, d.
Thomas, 307.
William E. I\, 330.
Rose, Gideon, 133.
Ilotch, Benjamin, 030.
Rowley, Aaron, 438.
Henry, 244, 255.
Moses, 271,427, 428, 431.
Nathan, 434, 431k
Ruggles, Timothy, 99.
Russell. Rev. Jonathan, 275,
284, d., 435.
Rev. Jonathan Jr., 284,
287, 300, d., 591.
John, 257, 300, d., 313, 317,
d., 324.
Lothrop, 296, d.
Moody, 295, 301, d.
Ryder, Benjamin, 544, 630,
034.
Daniel, 513.
DavM, 038.
Ebenezer, 634.
James, 602, d.800
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Ryder, John, 195,196.
Joseph, 194, 196, 217, d.
Lot, 634.
Richard, 638.
Samuel, 181, 182, 186, 194,
636, 638.
Thatcher, 612, d.
Thomas, 634, G37.
Zachariah, 194,196.
S.
Sampson, Micah. 475, d.
Joseph, 747, 750, 763, d.
Sanders, Henry, 53.
Sanderson, Henry, 44,59,69.
Samuel, 86.
Sanford, Benjamin, 4G4,473,
d.
Charles, 469, d.
Rev. John, 708, 712.
Sargent, John, 208.
Hannah, 441.
Rev. William, 262,263,271,
580, 630.
Savage, James, 171.
John, 542.
Samuel, 324, 332, d.
Scudder, Charles, 338, d.
David, 138.
Ebenezer, 294, d., 329, d.
Eleazar, 320.
Frederick, 340, d.
Henry A., 336.
John, 255, 271.
Josiah, 336, d.
Zeno, 337, d.
Seabury, David, 704, d.
Thomas, 750, 751, 754, 761,
d.
Sears, Christopher, 707, d.
Daniel, 591. 601, d.
David, 599, d., 607, d.
Ebenezer, 232, d.
Edmund, 702, d., 704, 711,
d.
Edward, 706, d.
Elkanah, 704, 712, d.
Henry, 713, d.
Jacob, 714. d.
Jonathan, 505.
John, 216, d., 223, 695, 708,
Joseph, 505,700,704,712, d.
Joshua, 234, d., 505, 704.
Judah, 699, 714, d.
Micajah, 709, d.
Nathaniel, 502, d., 712, d.
Paul. 195, 196, 198, 209, d.,
216, d., 003, 604, 714, d.
Prince, 711, d.
Richard, 138, 182, 194, d.,
591, 596, d., 599, d.,
604 , 608, d., 609, d.
Rowland, 717, d.
Samuel, 494,505.
Silas, 195, 196, 205, d.
Stephen, 714, d.
Zachary, 699.
Selew, John, 504.
Philip, 501, 5 6.
Sephen, Henry, 44.
Severance, Joseph, 195.
Sewel, Rev. E. O., 329, 330.
Shave, Thomas, 255, 271.
Shaw, George, 596, d.
Lemuel, 339, d.
Shaw, Oakes, Rev., 138, 300,
326, d.
Philander, Rev., 403, 405,
410, d.
Shelley, Robert, 244,255,270,
d., 271.
Sherman, Ichabod, 232, d.
Shillingsworth, Thomas, 44.
Shiverick, Asa, 717, d.
Nathai iel, 449, 451, 452,
463, 415, d.
Samuel, Rev., 433,435,437.
Samuel, 447, 463, d., 714, d.
Thomas, 447.
Shores, Rev. S., 469, 473.
Short, Rev. Mattlmw, 591.
Simpkius, Rev. John, 138,
522, 743, 740, 751, 760.
Nicholas, 181, 182,257.
Skiff, James, 17, 36, 41, 44,
53, 59, 62, 69.
Nathaniel, 427.
Stephen, 00, 68, 73, 81, 86,
92.
Slawson, George, 17, 41.
Slocumb, John, 456.
Small, Benjamin, 513, 524,
543.
Edward, 587, 588.
Francis, 544, 554.
James, 525.
Jonathan, 504, 506, 513.
Samuel, 551.
Thomas, 525, 638.
Zachary, 506.
Zachariah, 513.
Zebedee, 524.
Smalley, Freeman, 766, d.
Isaac, ('30.
John, 348, 359.
Taylor, 6:18.
Smith, Ambrose, 564.
Barzillai, 564.
Benjamin, 73, 74, 86, 313.
Beriah, 551.
Daniel, 600.
David, 305, 313, 564.
Ebenezer, 551.
Elisha W., 685, d.
Gamaliel, 560, 563.
Jeremiah, 375, 389, d.
John, Rev., 54, 55, 59, 69,
80, 86,187,247,263,207.
John, 74, 86, 99, d., 123,
506,589.
Joseph, 671, 762, d.
Ralph, 359, 375.
Richard, 59, 60.
Samuel, 142, d., 367,372, d.,
375, 376, d., 512, 587,
657, 6C0.
Seth, 603, 606, 638.
Shubael, 73, 74, 86, 110.
Stephen, 608, d.
Thomas, 75, 83» d., 102, d.,
124, 135, 367, 375, 542,
552, 554, 658.
Thomas, Rev., 215, 217,
255.
William, 50», 601.
Zocth, 658, 600, 004.
Snow, Ambrose, 507.
Anthony, 560.
Benjamin, 375.
David, 566, 75 \
Edward, 494, 506, 524.
Eli, 222.
Elisha, 513.
Jabez, 371, 375, 506.
Jed., 524.
Jonathan, 744, 559, d.
John, 375, 396, tf., 506, 518,
d., 545, 550, 552.
Joseph, 375, 386, d., 375,
498, d., 518, d., 753.
Josiah, 733, d.
Joshua, 554.
Mark, 359, 369, 373, d., 375.
Micajah, 375, "
Nicholas, 348, 356, 359,365,
d., :'(m , 375, 496, 500.
Prince, 504, 510, d.
Reuben, 522, d.
Samuel, 3S9, d.
Seth, 526.
Stephen, 307,375, 542.
Thomas, 494, 505, 524.
Soper, Robert, 638.
Samuel, 647, d.
Sparrow, Jonathan, 359,363,
369, 370, 375.
John. 307, 375.
Richard, 361, d., 375.
Seth, 733, d.
Spear, Rev. Samuel, 551,
628, 633.
Starr, Thomas, 181, 182, 187.
Stearns, Rev. D., 710, 712.
Steele, Rev. Joel, 678.
John, 546.
Stevens, Josiah, 571.
Levi, 773.
Richard, 548, 554, 557, 561,
773.
Stewart, Daniel, 268.
Hugh, 195, 587.
James, 93, d.
Samuel, 596, 597.
William, 588.
Stone, Job C., 713, d.
James L., Rev., 763.
Nathan, Rev., 138, 220,
699.
Nathan, 713, d.
Nathaniel, Rev., 436, 494,
556, d., 642, 643, 742.
Nathaniel, 519, d.
Sylvanus, 744, 749, d.
Storrs, Samuel. 271.
Streigh, John, 506.
Strout, Christopher, 630.
George, 630.
Studley, Samuel, 717, d.
Sylvanus, 714, d.
Sturgis, David, 718, d.
Edward, 182, 195, 196, 203,
d., 216, d.
John, 299, d.
Samuel, 207, 301, d.
Thomas, 189,216, d.
William, 337.
Stuteley, Mr., 41.
Sunderland, Mr., 195, 375,
377, d.
Swett, Benjamin, 672,
John, 666.
Swift, Abm., 488, d.
Alvin, 159, d.
Benjamin, 445.
David, 464.
Elijah, 480, d.
Elisha, 419.
Ellis, 104, d.
Ephraim, 74, 86, 448, 456.
Jireh, 83, 86, 96.
John, 475, d.
Josiah, 506, 513.
Levi, 158, d.
Manasseth, 453.
Micah, B., 473, d.INDEX OF NAMES,
801
Swift, Moses, 100,113,154, d.,
449,453.
Nathaniel, 479, d.
Reuben, 475, d.
Samuel, 74, 86.
Silas, 152, d.
Solomon, 447.
Thomas, 120,150, d., 483, d.
Ward, 123.
William, 44, 54, 60, 67, 69,
74, 86.
T.
Taber, Philip, 180.
Tappan, R<*v. D. B., 473.
Taylor, Abner, 22G.
Ansel, 232, d.
Barnabas, Rev., 213, 698.
Daniel, 213, 223.
Ebenezer, 213, 300, d.
Edward, 271, 283, d.
Henry, 271.
Howes, 231, d.
Jacob, 217, d.
James, 216.
Jeremiah, 196.
John, 194, 202, 506, 513.
Reuben. 222.
Bichard, 193, d., 194,207, d.
Samuel, 232, d.
Simeon, 709, d.
Slmbael, 216, d.
Teage, 194.
Templar, Richard, 182.
Thaclier, Anthonv, 180, 181,
182, 187, 189, 190, d.,
580.
Benjamin, 717, d.
David, 222, 224, 229, d.
George, 230, d.
Henry, 232, d.
James, 335.
John, 191, 195, 196, 210, d.,
220, d., 228, d.
Joseph, 216, 219, d.
Josiah, 206, d., 229, d.
Judah, 194, 195, 196, d.,
216.
Peter, Rev., 274.
Peter, 196, 207, 215, d.
Thomas, 217, a., 229, d.
William, 224.
Thayer, Rev. T., 712, 713.
Thomas, Nathaniel, 422.
Orsemus, 642, d.
Theophilus, 6:38.
William, 424.
Thompson, John, 271.
Thornton, J. W., 173.
Thomas, Rev., 188, 190,
195, 196, 199, 200, 204,
205, d.
Tilley, Hugh, 182.
Samuel, 427.
William, 257.
Tobey, Benjamin, 135.	%
Cornelius, 135.
Eliakim, 113, 120.
Ephraim, 74.
Ezra, 156, d.
Gershom, 86.
Ileman, 135.
James, 161, d.
Jonathan, 82, 86.
John, 74, 86, 99, d., 135,
479, d.
Joshua, 113, 152, d.
Melatiah, 135, 156, d.
VOL. II.
Tobey, Nathan, 74,86.
Knowles, 706, d.
Samuel, 47, 86, 99, d.
Seth, 222, 699, 703, d., 711,
d.
Stephen, 709, d.
Thomas. 45, 47, 60, 69, 86,
89, d., 218, d.. 228, d.
Thomas H., 147, d.
Timothy, 162, d.
William, 74.
Zimri, 472, d.
Tomlon, Nathaniel, 588.
Treat, Rev. Samuel, 336,375,
379, 380, 381, d., 382,
495.
Samuel, 545.
Tripp, Joseph G-, 235, d.
Troop, William, 271.
Tucker, John, 505, 507, d.
Tupper, Eldad, 86, 95,103, d.
Eliakim, 92, 96.
Elisha, 110, 135, d.
Enoch, 111.
Israel, 82, 86.
Medad, 101.
Prince, 111, 152, d.
Roland, 104, d.
Samuel, 112, d.
Silas, 103, 121.
Thomas, 15, 36, 44, 48, 60,
69, 74, 75, 86, 87, d.
William E., 649, d.
Turner, Charles, Rev., 556,
559.
Isaac, 69.
John, Rev., 730.
Michael, 17, 44, 60, 69, 71.
Twining, William, 182, 359,
375.
TJ.
Underwood, Joseph, 529, d.
Rev. Nathan, 522,	528,
529, d.
Upham, Rev. Caleb, 556,558,
564, 566, 569, d.
Upsal, Nicholas, 58.
■v.
Vickery, David, 553.
Hudson, 662.
Jonathan, Rev., 190, 588,
589.
Jonathan, 552,553.
Vincent, Henry, 195, 196.
Isaac, 704, 708, d.
John, 17. 42, 44.
Philip, TTSTtr*
Thomas, 50.
Vinton, Rev. J. A., 608.
Vose, Rev. Ezekiel, 731.
W.
Wade, Richard, 17.
Wadibone, Nicholas, 182.
Walley, Rev. Thomas, 268,
270, 271, 273, 274, d.
Thomas, Jr., 269, 280.
Walker, Benjamin, 525.
Jabez, 375.
William, 367, 375.
Ward, Joseph, 671, 672.
Watkins, Thomas, 638.
101
Waterman, Eleazer, 672.
Jotham, Rev., 326, 328.
Samuel, 666, 672.
Webb, Rev. Benjamin, 385,
393, d.
Webster, John, 483, d.
Weekes, Ammiel, 513,526, d.
Ebenezer, 527, d.
George, 506, 512, d.
Weeks, Barzillai, 161, d.
Ebenezer, 448.
John, 427, 4d8, 431.
Shubael, 447.
William, 427, 431.
Welles, Rev. E., 155, 158, d.
Wells, Isaac, 244, 255, 271.
West, Rev. Samuel, 229,448.
Whelden, Gabriel, 179.
Henry, 182, 194, 202, d.
John, 195, 210, d.
Miller, 717, d.
White, Crannet, 181.
Emanuel, 182, 184.
James, 233, d.
Joseph, 230, d.
Peregrine, 181.
Whitman, Bathsheba, 140,
775.
Jonas, 324.
Levi, Rev., 138, 676.
Whorf, John, 638, 642.
Wiley, Rev. E., 409.
Moses, 671.
Nathaniel, 681.
Willard, Joseph, 202.
Williams, Rev. A., 102, 113,
133, d.
George, 387.
Samuel, 182, 760, 763.
Thomas, 359, 375.
Willis, Jonathan, 55.
Lawrence, 44, 25S.
Nathaniel, 44, 48,
Thomas, 17.
Winchester, Titus, 134.
Wing, Ananias, 195, 198,
502, d.
Daniel, 44, 53, 60, 63, 60,
82, 86, 158, d.
Ebenezer, 83, 86, 101.
Edward, 111.
Elnathan, 505.
Jashub, 83, 155, d.
John, 17, 44, 74, 86, 187,
195, 196, 200, 205, d.,
504, 742.
Joseph, 69, 195, 517.
Joshua, 111, 164, d.
Otis, Rev., 730, 738.
Samuel, 74, 100, 111, 143,
159, d.
Simeon, 119.
Shearj., 86.
Stephen, 44, 60, 69, 86.
Sylvanus, 478, d.
Thomas, 67, 69.
Zacclieus, 111.
Winslow, Abm., 527, 747.
John, 756, d.
Kenelm, 195, 196, 198, 498,
501, d., 504, 505, 518,
744, 761, d.
Nathan, 761, d.
Nathaniel, 764.
Winsor, John, 17.
Joseph, 44, 53, 55, 60, 69.
Winter, Samuel, 630, 631.
Thomas, 553.
Wiswall, Rev. Mr., 69, 70.
Witherell, Eleazar, 681.802
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Wixam, Barnabas, 375.
John, 714, d.
Nehemian, 718, d.
Robert, 359, 370, d., 375.
Titus, 375.
Wollaston, Edward, 17.
Wood, David, 465, d.
Ebeneser, 300.
William, 15, 19, 31, 32, 44,
169.
Woodbury, Rev. B., 471,473.
Woodward, Rev. G. W., 333,
Ackepesco, 86.
Akemoiet, 273.
Antiko, 07.
Anthony, 542.
Aspinet, 348,364.
C.
Canootus, 72.
Ceapish, 439.
Charles, 205.
Commuck, 67.
Connelow, 73.
Cosens, John, 373.
Coshannay, Thomas, 373.
ID.
Daniel, 279.
David, Peter, 550.
W.
Francis, 270, 364.
Gr.
George, 348.
H.
Hope, 67.
Humphrey, Paul, 284.
J.
James, 275.
Jediah, 545.
Jediah-John, 550.
Jephry, 111.
Jeremy, 542.
Jerenly-Anthony, 550.
Wooster, Rev. Francis, 98,
102.
Worden, Peter, 182,190,195.
Samuel, 195.
Wright, Anthony, 17, 44.
Nicholas, 17, 44.
Ppfpr 17 AA
Wyatt, William, 430. 431.
Y.
Yeat, John, 506.
Yesson, Mr., 195.
INDIANS
Joel, 72.
Joshua, 542.
IK.
Keenecomset, 263 273, 275.
Lieutenant-Anthony, 542.
Little-Robin, 090.
M.
Manasseth, 373.
Masliantampaigne, 183, 187,
192.
Mattaquason, 348, 579.
Moash, 2'4.
Mopes, 67.
Monolio, 273.
Munsha, Samuel, 373.
IN'.
Nauhaught, Joseph, 176.
Ned, 83, 273.
Nepoyetum, 258.
Noantico, Job, 427.
Noantico, Thomas, 427.
Nummuck, 67.
O.
Old John, 86.
IP.
Paul, Humphrey, 284.
Paupmunnuck, 259, 264.
Peter, David, 544.
Peter, Joseph, 284.
Young, Benoni, 82.
David, 638.
Henry, 378.
Jonathan, 671.
John, 359, 306, 371, d., 375,
506.
Joseph, 375, 544, 545, 554,
611, d.
Nathaniel, 375.
Prince, 513.
Robert, 375.
Samuel, 551, 554.
Thomas, 662.
Pognet, Caleb, 86.
Popnit, Caleb, 86.
Q.
Quason, John, 270, 500, 579,
R.
Richard, James, 284-
Richard, Matthew, 96.
S.
Sabbatubket, 690.
Sachemus, 270, 690.
Sam, Daniel, 548.
Sampson, 690.
Sassamon, 67.
Saxuant, 203.
Seagumuck, 259.
Seekunk, 272.
Serunk, 258.
Sias, Zach., 87.
Simon, 72.
Simon, Isaac, 95.
Sunkation, 86.
T-
Tonumatuck, Jed., 544.
John, 550.
Joe, 514.
Tawsomet, 579.
W.
Wahwoonetshunke, 690.
Waumpum, 264.
Isaac, 284.
Webacowit, 67.
Will, 269.
Y.
Yanno, 187, 268, 274.INDIAN NAMES OF PLACES.
803
INDIAN PLACES.
A..
Acapesket, 417.
Aquidnet, 07.
Ashimuit, 85, 417.
C.
Cataumet, 417.
Catochesit, 248, 253, 264.
Chakwaquet, 248, 254, 335.
Chapoquoit, 417, 431.
Chequesset, G03.
Cliumaquid, 248, 240.
Coatuite, 248, 254, 204.
Comassekumkanet, 21.
Coonemessit, 430.
Cowesit, 27.
Gr.
Gesquoquesset, 349.
H.
Hockanom, 213, 694.
Hiyannos, 248.
X.
Katomuck, 67.
Kitteaumut, 21, 28.
M.
HHinomet, 21, 27.
Matchapoxet,579, 585.
Mayhaganset, 430.
Mattachiest, 170, 181, 182,
243, 248, 252.
Meeshawn, 373.
Mistick, 248, 253.
Monamoyick, 187, 348, 579.
Moonpoon, 545.
1ST.
Nauset, 184, 260, 347, &18,
396.
Namskaket, 347, 348, 721.
Nanomesset, 67.
Nashanow, 67.
Naumquoit, 721.
Nauticon, 177.
Nobsque, 417, 427, 457.
Nobscusset, 201, 689.
Saconesset, 67, 259, 417.
Saquatucket, 270.
Satuite, 254.
Satucket, 199, 201.
Sapokonish, 349.
Seipigan, 245.
Scauton, 21, 67, 248.
Scargo, 351.
Scusset, 21, 22.
Shawme, 21, 23.
Sipperwisset, 417.
Skunkenuck, 248.
Sugkones, 417.
Sursuit, 194, 689.
T.
DP.
Pamet, 376, 535.
Pashchetonesit, 67.
Peskahamesit, 67.
Pesque, 457.
Pochet, 348, 379, 721.
Pokesit, 21, 28.
Pononakanet, 373, 653.
Potanuraaquut, 348, 721.
Pouglikeeste, 28.
Tamahepaseakon, 248.
Tashmuit, 543, 547.
Tateket, 417, 430.
Tonsct, 319, 721.
Tuttamnest, 349.
TJ.
Uckatincet, 67.
Q.
Quanaumut, 273, 429.
Quisset, 417, 431.
Quivet, 689.
W.
Waquoit, 417.
Wayquonscot, 70.
Weekapoh, 83.
Wenaumet, 28.t RR AT A.
Vol. I., page 299, second line from bottom, for Howes read Hawes.
“	“	324, portrait, see remarks Vol. II., pages 774-5.
“	“	335, fourth line of note, for Patrick read Patience.
“	“	461, third line from top, an should be a.
“	“	521, third line, paragraph should date 1779.
Vol. II., page 29, third line of Webster’s letter, for man read men.
“	“	91, fourth line from bottom, for Hirah read Hiram.
“	“	142, last note, see correction page, 775.
“	“	172, sixth line, for first read third.
“	“	273, note, second lin* from bottom, for 1633-4 read 1683-4.
u	“	301, thirteenth line from bottom, for 1734 read 1724.
“	“	337, third note, first line, for 1707 read 1807.
“	“	340, first note, add, Engraving furnished by his son, H. L. Hallett, Esg.
“	44	471, seventh line, for ce. 54 read ae. 35.
“	“ 485, second line from top, for Moses read Knowles; and see page 772.
“	“ 610, the engraving mentioned, was withdrawn — the portrait being
imperfect.
“	“	647, fourth line, for 1858 read 1853; and see page 769.
.
V'CBORN 1162,
DIED SEPT 24TH
1848 .BORN FEB. 26t.h 1761,
DIED APRIL 30™ 1845.
BORN AUG. 16IH 1774.
DIED JAN. I9T.H 1852Jflddlefcnt Walla&zd J?n<?r'sd frinters /7?ja
'loty
BORN MARCH 18T.H 1798,
DIED AUG. 10™ 1859.

© ® [g © D®SS1•s L/TH. BVSTM.
ADDENDA.
775
as correctly given by us in the genealogical notice,
Yol. I. p.,291.1
We are to make amende also, for an error on p. 140,
Vol. II., in the last note ; and are thus reminded of the
last words of Dr. Cotton Mather at the close of his
Magnalia: “ Reader, Carthagena was of the mind, that
unto those three things which the ancients held to be
impossible, there should be added this fourth, — to find
a book printed without errata. It seems, the hands
of Briareus, and the eyes of Argus, will not prevent
them.”2
Crowell, and to the sons of the subject of this brief biographical notice, now
eminent merchants in Boston, for the excellent likeness on the opposite
page.
1	We have, in connection with this date, a duty to perform touching the
lithograph itself. It was thought by the highly-respected descendant who
generously furnished it, to be the veritable likeness of his military ancestor,
Maj. Gen. John Walley. The facsimile of the General's autograph we
obtained from documents filed by him in the State archives; but, now ap-
prehensive that the signature is all in the engraving that pertains immediately
to him, — another, a distinguished descendant by maternal lineage, having a
quite different understanding of the treasured family relic, — we feel bound,
by a regard for historical accuracy, to forestall any misapprehension that
might otherwise be occasioned by our act. We do not, thereby, pretend to
determine the question ; and, perhaps, cannot better acquit ourself of
responsibility in this matter than by reference to our,correspondent's note:
“ Boston, June 5, 1862. Dear Sir, The receipt of the last number of your
History, which I have read with much interest, reminds me of what I have
long wished to say to you. Did I ever tell you that I never heard that the
picture you give us at 324thpage, Yol. 1st,, was the likeness of Gen. Walley ?
I always heard it was the likeness of his son John Walley, born Sept. 11,
1691, died Mar. 6, 1745. But if I am wrong, which I doubt, Maj. Gen.
Walley was b. not in 1654, but in 1643 as you correctly state on page. Now
cannot some Erratum, foisted in somewhere (perhaps you’ve done it already),
hinder this error going down with your authority ? —Yours, Wendell
Phillips."
2	We were led, by intelligence communicated in good faith by one whose
relations to the person gave to his announcement the assurance of authority,
to state that a venerable and most estimable lady was deceased. We were
most happy to be informed, by an inundation of letters from among her
many distinguished friends, though too late to recall the mistake, that she
was “ yet living at Lexington, aged, but with a mind undimmed, a memory
unimpaired, a bodily strength but little diminished.” Our courteous prompt-
er, commanding at the time a distinguished position in Harvard College,
further says: “ She writes as fair and handsome a hand as any. young man
or woman in the State, and since she passed her 80th year has transcribed
the early church-records of L. " Mortified .-by the error, we are grateful
that it is an error. Long may that excellent woman survive, the admira-
tion of her friends. We have remembered her with respect ever since the776
HISTORY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
We might have greatly extended our genealogical
notes; but this department of our work—not origi-
nally promised	has been a most serious tax upon both
our time and pecuniary resources. We sincerely hope
that no occasion will arise, or temptation be presented
to us, hereafter to attempt a supplement. It would
have been an interesting employment to have traced
also the ancient settlers of Cape Cod to their original
homes.1 But we must now withhold, and be content
with only a few concluding words.
day she loaned to us, then a little hoy, a beautifully illustrated Natural
History, kindly proffered with commendations and other encouraging words;
and had we the skill of a limner, we could now portray those features
marked with intellectuality and benevolence when, with attaching manners,
she made her little friend so happy.
1 In the single annals of the one town of Barnstaple, Eng., we have
found, running back to the year 1265, the Giffard’s; to 1327, the Burgesses;
to 1337, the Gray’s; to the early reign of king Rd. H., the Crespin’s,
Loringe’s, and Hugonis’ (Higgins;) to 1537, the Baker’s; to 1553, the
Hardin’s; to 1558, the Bassett’s —of whom, in 1600, was “ Sir Robert”;
We find that “ Mr. Rd. Smyth, the hired preacher of the town, and Jo. Smyth,
preacher at Pylton, were inhibited to preach, by reason they would not
wear the surplice; ” and at various early periods, the names of Dyer, Wright,
Ferris, Cotton, Palmer, Stevens, Dennis, Russel, Ayers, Downe, Stone,
Snow, Clarke, Cooke, Bisse, Smale, Swete, Matthews, Hammond, Harper,
Robinson, John Jenkins, Newcombe, White, Avery, Roach, Nichols, Berry,
Tucker, Atkins, Garrett, etc., appear.