c^ Seal, one mile to one Inch. TOWN OF HADDAM, BY GONE DAYS IN PONSETT-HADDAM MIDDLESEX COUNTY, CONNECTICUT A STORY BY REV. WILLIAM C. KNOWLES RECTOR ST. JAMES CHURCH, PONSETT PRJVATELY PRINTED NEW YORK 1914 TO MY ESTEEMED FRIEND SAMUEL THOMAS HUBBARD THIS LITTLE WORK IS RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED BY THE AUTHOR 2012373 CONTENTS Page Introduction 3 Historic Landmarks 5 A Galaxy of Old Folks 25 Unforgotten Worthies 27 The Indian Population 34 A Noble Army of Martyrs 41 Chapter of Casualties 43 Ponsett's Picturesque Features 45 The Roll of Clericals 48 Public Worship 50 The Medical Profession 52 Ponsett in the Wars 54 About Our Ancestry 56 Old Documents 58 Index 63 Topographical Map, Town of Haddam Frontispiece Ponsett-Haddam Landmarks Facing page 24 INTRODUCTION At the urgent request of a friend, the writer has undertaken to give a description of Ponsett as it was before its consolidation with Little City District.* The object is to furnish for the former inhabitants of this locality, a brief account of the place and people with whom they once associated, of the rugged rocks and hills, the pleasant valleys, the gently flowing streams and the dear old roads over which as boys they trudged to school, or as young men walked homo from evening meeting at the School House with best girl leaning on the arm, Happy days — how well we re- member them ! Before starting on our trip let us inquire into a little of our former history, Ponsett is the south west portion of the town of Haddam. The Indians called all the Southwestern part of the town of Haddam, Cockaponsit; leaving off the two first syllables of which, we have the remnant of a name in which we take pride. We have but little patience with the phrase West Haddam, inasmuch as the good old town of Haddam had appendages enough without being unnecessarily burdened with another. We first find our name on the town records about 1690, in which is mentioned "Land belonging to Nathaniel Spencer in Cock- aponsit in Haddam, being a house-lot containing eight acres more or less," and again, "Land belonging to John Baly in "Cocka- ponsit," and "Land belonging to Ephm, Baly at Cockaponsit," "It is probable that a settlement was made here very soon after the first settlement at Haddam in 1662, When the settlers of the town purchased of the Indians for "Thirt}' coats," the tract of land extending from the Con- *We write in 1907, By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam necticut River six miles westward, Cockaponsit was, of course, included in the purchase ; though, which of the four kings, Sachus- quatevemapid, Keawaytaluie, Turramuggus and Xabahuctt, or the two queens, Sepunnemo pampcossamc and Towkishe, the signers of the deed, were the original rulers of Cockaponset, cannot be ascertained. That this region was, at one time, well populated b}' the aborigines is evident b}" the arrow heads and other Indian relics which from time to time are unearthed even to the present day. A remnant of the natives of the soil lingered here for a long time after the coming of the white man, a few remaining into the beginning of the last century. Quite a number of Indian graves are to be seen in the old burying ground. By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam HISTORIC LANDMARKS. Let us now give a parting glance, as it were, to the old places and recall the forms and faces of the loved ones, many of whom have passed "over the river," while those that are living and widely- separated, we may never meet again. We invite you, then, dear reader, to take a tramp with us over the Ponsett hills. We trust our journey will be a pleasant one. We shall pause at every old house-place and give as best we can its history, and occasionally some reminiscences of those who once lived there. The map at the end of this chapter shall be our guide. The outside borders may not be quite correct, especially the north western, but the roads, houses and sites of former houses are in the main accurate. Minor mistakes there may be which I trust the reader will overlook and rectify where needed. We first take up Killingworth turnpike at its upper boun- dary and proceed southward as follows : 1. House built in 1861, by John L. Morrill. He died in 1864 and is buried in a knoll a few rods west of the house; build- ing now unoccupied. 3. Hole in the ground, said to have been the cellar of one Ferguson a turner who had a dish-mill at the falls. Think the site doubtful : more probable, site 38. 3. The cellar place of the house of John Turner, a black- smith, whose shop was site 8. Bif Gone Da//s in Ponsett-Haddam 4. Cellar place of a house built by Daniel Brainerd, after- wards owned by James Spencer who kept a grocery in the base- ment. He died in 1839, and his brother Alanson Spencer occupied the house until his death in 1869. After the death of Alanson's widow, in 1883, the house was demolished. None of the family is now left in the place. 5. The site of a grist-mill built by Capt. Samuel Hubbard. With much labor he turned the water from "Great-brook," and also from the "Salt-peter" brook, and with both streams united, had sufficient power to turn a huge overshot water wheel. The mill was a good thing for the place, and a successful business was done here until the death of Capt. Hubbard in 1826. The mill aftei'wards passed into other hands and eventually fell into decay. It disappeared about 1855. 6, Here was a dwelling house erected by Ebenezer Wilcox, who purchased the above mentioned mill property. The house was taken down about 1868. Mr. Wilcox was a shoemaker and had a shop on the premises. See site 7. T. Shoemaker's shop, mentioned above. Building taken down some fifty years ago. 8. Site of John Turner's blacksmith shop. Buildings gone. 9. Two story dwelling house erected by Sylvester Hubbard in 1820. Occupied by him until his death in 1872, then by his son Theodore until his death in 1896. House at the present time occupied b}' Bohemians. By Gone Days in P onset t-Haddam 10, St. James' Protestant Episcopal Church, cornerstone laid in 1872, consecrated in 1877. 11. Large two story house erected by Ashael Bonfoey ; was at one time a tavern. Passed out of the family in 1853 and was purchased by Willard Knowles. He, dying in 1883, it passed to his son Hubert W. who died in 1906. Now owned by his children. 13, Story and a half house erected by Hezekiah Sutlief, about 1833. His widow left it in 1855 and the property was bought by Asa Burr, Esq. After the death of Mr. Burr it was purchased by Wm. Edgar Spencer, who is its present occupant. 13. A one-story house erected by Roswell Sutlief. He died in 1861. The place has since changed owners a number of times. Mr. Roman Berchulsky, a Slav, then purchased it. 14. A one-story house with gambrel roof; erected by Ros- well Hubbard. The frame was raised at site 67, but the turnpike being opened about that time the frame was moved to its pres- ent site. David T. Bailey bought the property and came there to live in the fall of 1835. He died in 1883. His son Frank occupied the place until a few years ago w^hen he sold out to Bohemians. 15, This is the New Cemetery, laid out in January, 1828. It is composed of thirty large lots. The first person buried here was Ursula Hubbard Spencer, wife of Abinson Spencer, who died February, 1828. 16, Small house built and now occupied by Frederick Wilcox. 8 By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 17. One-story house set into a bank, making it two stories in front. Built by James Brainerd. Sold to two maiden ladies who lived here a great many years. Now unoccupied and falling into decay. 18. Large two-story house erected by Capt. James Thomas, soon after the Turnpike was opened. Was at one time a tavern. Capt. Thomas died in 1842. A few years later his son-in-law, Mr. Alfred Brainerd, came here to live. The present occupant is an enterprising Bohemian, Mr. Paul Jiroudek. THE MORRIS ROAD. 19. Here stood a log cabin. It is not known by whom built, but Aurunah Hubbard once lived here. In 1795 it was occupied by widow Naomi Gladwin. The cabin disappeared many years ago and the oldest inhabitant has no remembrance of it. V" 20. Here was the house of Daniel Hubbard, son of Daniel and Temperance Hubbard. Twelve children were reared here. About 1792 the family moved to New Durham, N. Y. A pile of stones marks the place where the house stood. The home lot is now overgrown with bushes. 21. Joel Hubbard, an elder brother of Daniel, had a large two-story house here with a lean-to. He was the father of twelve children, all, except the first-born, living to adult age. Mr. Hub- bard died in 1802. His son Capt. Abraham Hubbard, succeeded to the estate. He died in 1822 and his son Edmund kept the place for a few years and sold out to his father's sister Mary, commonly known as "Aunt Polly." Late in life she married Morris Hubbard and he came here to live. "Aunt Polly" died in 1850. The house was demolished by Chauncey D. Skinner in 1855. By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 9 23. Here was a house but it seems impossible, at this late day, to find out who lived in it. It might have been the home of Abner Smith. The house w-as standing when "Aunt Polly" was a child. The home lot has been known for many years as the "Capt. Brainerd lot." THE NEW ROAD. 33. A depression in the ground shows where once stood the house of Ephraim Spencer, one of the first settlers of the place. ROAD TO HADDAM. 34. Who the original owner of this place was is not known. About 1812 Betty Clark and her children were living here. Some- where prior to 1820 Hazacl Smith caused the house to be removed to site 30. 25. The home of Richard Knowles which his father Lieut. John Knowles willed to him in 1752. A family of twelve children were reared here. After the death of Richard Knowles, in 1814, the property passed out of the family and the house was taken down. 26. A one-story house built by Richard Knowles 2nd, not far from 1790. After the death of his wife, in 1819, Mr. Knowles sold the place to Elizur Spencer. It remained in the Spencer family until 1864. The house is now owned and occupied by Oscar F, Richards. 10 By Gone Days in Ponsett-H addarn 37, Here is left a portion of the old village-green. It was formerly a triangular plot very much larger than at present. The old Militia used to "train" here. On this green stood the Chestnut- Hill School House, which, one hundred and twenty-five years ago must have been well filled with scholars. Harris E. Knowles has in his possession a receipt given by Elisha Knowles, Jr.. to Richard Knowles, for the sum of 12s 6d, for the use of the school, in the last half of the 18th century. 38. This house was originally owned by Asa Walkley, a house-carpenter by trade. He was killed by lightning while sitting by the side window of the east front room. The exact date of his death cannot be ascertained, but it occurred not far from 1801. The widow remained here a few years after the death of her hus- band, when the property was purchased by Simeon Hubbard who sold to his nephew Epaphroditus Hubbard about 1839, the latter remaining here until his death in 1895. The property was then pur- chased by William C. Knowles who sold it to his son-in-law, Edwin W. Dickinson. It is now owned by Joseph Planata and brother. The house was originally but one story. Mr. Epaphroditus Hub- bard raised it, putting another story under the old building. The upper story is supposed to be the oldest house in Ponsett. 39, A two-story house with a lean-to. A typical New Eng- land farm-house, built by William Knowles and his sons John and Willard about 1796. William Knowles died in 1820, leaving his estate by will to his grand-children, William, Zeruiah and John H. Knowles, his son John to have the use of it during the term of his natural life. John Knowles died in 1836. John H. Knowles, who far many years was a sea-faring man returned to his home in 1837 and lived here until his death in 1870. His widow occu- pied the house until her decease in 1897. It is now the property of William C. Knowles and is occupied by his son John C. Knowles. The farm has been in the possession of the family for about one hundred and sixty-four years. By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 11 30. Hazael Smith once had a house here. It was for his hired man, Timothy Jackson, a negro. The house, which was originall}'^ site 24 has long since disappeared. 31. The site of the ancient Knowles house, Lieut. John Knowles, in company with others, removed from Eastham, Mass., and settled here about 1742. He became an extensive land-holder, and at the time of his death in 1752, left large farms to his three sons Elisha, Richard and William. A copy of his will is printed elsewhere. 33. On the map are marks for two houses. The one the greater distance from the road line was the house of Elisha Knowles, son of Lieut. John Knowles. He died in 1801. His son Joshua became his successor. Hazael Smith purchased the prop- erty, and about 1810 built a new house which he occupied until his death in 1866. His son Davis Smith remained there until 1872. The property has since then changed hands several times and is now owned and occupied by John Novotny. 33. Here stood a house built by Irwin W. Smith, who moved to Pennsylvania in the early Forties. His brother-in-law, Benjamin S. Bailey, purchased the property. Mr. Bailey died in 1849. His widow remained here until 1856. Comfort J. Treat lived here a number of years. Finally the property was bought by Leroy S. Burdick. In 1867 he sold the house to Lyman Bailey who caused it to be removed to Higganum. ^ 34. About 1742 Roger Thomas, who came from Eastham, Mass., settled here. After his death his son Ebenezer remained here and built site 35. 12 Bi) Gone Daj/s in Pousett-Haddam 35, This house was built close to the old one — site Ji4. Calvin Thomas, son of Ebenezer, remained on the place. He died in 1847. The land was sold to Joseph R. Shailer. The house was bought bj Benjamin S. Baile^^ and moved on to his near by prem- ises and used for a barn. Mrs. Thomas, who was Mr. Bailey's mother-in-law^, reserved one front room for a weaving room. Here was her loom and all her appliances for weaving cloth and carpets. She died in Norwich in 1866. 30, The site of a house built by Ebenezer Thomas, Jr. His son Ansel remained here until the early thirties when he sold to Capt. Sylvester Brainerd. Capt. Brainerd died in 1843. His widow remained here many years with her son Benjamin, who mar- ried and reared a family. The property having finally passed into other hands, the house fell into decay and has now disappeared. THE DENCE PLACE. 3T. This place derives its name from Prudence, otherwise called "Dence," the wudow of Abram Simons, a Narragansett Indian. When or by whom the house was erected is not known. Abram was here a century ago. He died in 1812. A further ac- count of him will be given elsewhere. DISH MILL HOLLOW. 38, Here is the site of the Elizur Spencer house which was a very old one one hundred years ago. Who built it or lived in it, previous to its occupancy by Mr. Spencer, is not known. It might have been the home of Ferguson the turner instead of site 2. Pos- sibly it was once owned by Ebenezer Mudge. The house has been gone many years. By Gone Bays in Ponsett-Haddam 13 39. Garden of Eden. This is a narrow strip of land en- closed by surrounding hills and at one time lovely in its seclusion. It is now overgrown with forest and a home for wild animals. 40. House built by David Spencer, son of Elizur Spencer and occupied by him until about 1848 ; then by Felix Spencer until his death in 1878. Tlic place is at present owned and occupied by foreigners. OLD PONSETT STREET. 41. This old house was the home of James Sutlief. He died in 1835, and Jonathan P. Spencer lived here a number of years. After him came Henry Hubbard. The place was purchased by Alvah W. Spencer about 1852. He lived here until his death in 1899. His son disposed of the property and it is now the home of John Planata. On June 19, 1906, the house caught fire and was reduced to ashes. 43. The Ponsett School House stood on this spot, Chestnut Hill having united with Ponsett in causing its erection. It was a one-story building nearly square on the ground. It had a stone chimney with a huge open fire place, which was used for heating the school room until the introduction of a box stove, when the stone chimney was taken away. At the east end of the building was a large rock, which for some reason or other it was thought best to remove. Accordingly, there was a general "turn out" of the men in the district, to demolish the rock, which was done in a manner satisfactory to themselves, perhaps, and an offset built of the broken pieces, which still remains. Why it should have been called an "improvement," the writer is at a loss to know. When the rock was demolished a kit of Indian tools was found hidden beneath it- After the consolidation of Ponsett and Little City districts the School House was taken down. 14 By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 43. Here stood the house of Jeremiah Hubbard. As the writer remembers, it was a two-story house with a lean-to across the east end. The house was very old and in a dilapidated con- dition when taken down in 1849. Mr. Hubbard died in 1803. His widow survived him seven years, dying at the advanced age of 95. She was the second wife, and not the mother of his children, three of whom, singular to relate, were born blind, Asa, Susannah, and Catherine. Deacon David Hubbard succeeded his father in the estate and lived here until his death in 1836. His son David suc- ceeded him. 44. This is a large four- roofed house built by Cyrus A. Hubbard in 1849. At the time of its erection it was considered by far the grandest house in Ponsett. Mr. David Hubbard and family were its first occupants, together with his three maiden sisters, Miriam, Rhoda, and Hadassah. The old ladies wept as they left the old house for the new one. Mr. Cyrus Hubbard came here to live sometime after the death of his father in 187*2. A bachelor brother and widowed sister, Mrs. Ashley of worthy mem- ory, also lived and died here. Cyrus A. Hubbard died here in 1900. His widow moved away, and the place is now owned by a Bohemian family. 45. A New England farm house built by Shailer Hubbard. After his death in 1832, his son Sylvester succeeded him. Syl- vester Hubbard died in 1864. Cyrus A. Hubbard purchased the property, remodeled the house into its present style, lived here a number of years and finally moved to site 44. George D. Winchcll purchased the property and lived here a few years. The place is now owned by Mr. Horocek, a Bohemian. By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 15 46. Here stands a horse barn built by Cyrus A. Hubbard, said at one time to have been the finest building of its kind in New- England. It is supposed to stand on, or near, the site of the first Hubbard house, where lived Daniel Hubbard, the progenitor of the Ponsett Hubbard family and one of the largest land-holders in_ the place. There is a question, however, whether this is the true site of the old house or site V( . Daniel Hubbard died in 1755 and was succeeded by his son Daniel, who became the father of nine sons, eight of them marrying and settling in the place and each rearing a large family. It is remarkable that at the present time there are none in Ponsett who bear the name of Hubbard. That this is where Daniel 2nd lived, seems the more probable, as Dr. Field, in his history of the Hubbard family, says that Daniel Hubbard's house "stood near where his descendant Sylvester Hub- / bard now lives," which is site 4<5, and according to tradition the uTi// coffin of Temperance, the widow of Daniel Hubbard 2nd, was laid, *^ probably at the time of her funeral, on the rock at the south, on which rests a large boulder. A copy of the last will and testament of Daniel Hubbard appears later on. 47. Here is a hollow in the ground, evidently, where once was a cellar. The writer was told when a boy, that here stood a Hubbard house. Probably the home at one time of one of the Daniels. 48. The Eunice Sutlief place. Miss Eunice lived here alone for a great many years. She was noted for her skill in weaving linen and woolen cloths, coverlets and carpets. She died in 1844 at an advanced age. In her last days she was cared for by her nephew Hezekiah Sutlief, at whose house she died. It is thought that she inherited her home from her father Nathaniel Sutlief. The house was removed soon after her decease. 16 By Gone Days in Ponsett-H addam 49. Here are the remains of the liousc of Jeremiah Hub- bard 2nd, commonly called "Captain Jeremiah." The building was a New England farm house, finished off in rather better style than most houses of that day. Captain Hubbard moved to Middle- town "Upper Houses," now Cromwell, in 1793. The liouse passed into the Spencer family and, for many years, was occupied at intervals by different families. Betty Clark and her children at one time made their home there. Various newly married couples set up house-keeping here until such time as their own houses could he built and made ready for occupancy. About 1852 or '53 the place was sold by Albert Spencer to Dr. Samuel Thomas Hubbard of New York, who for a time used it as a summer resi- dence. It finally passed into other hands and was suffered to fall into decay. 50. This house was built by Thomas Hubbard 2nd, between 1795 and 1800. Mr. Hubbard died in 1803, his son Amasa Hub- bard succeeded to the estate, living here until his death in 1864. Alburn C. Hubbard, the youngest son of Amasa Hubbard, occupied the house with his father. He died in April, 1864. His widow and family removed to Meriden in 1880. The place was soon after sold and at present is owned by Bohemians. The house is of the old New England style, two stories in front, the back having a long sloping roof with lean-to. There is also a large basement. 51. Here stood the house of Thomas Hubbard 1st. He died in 1795 and after the erection of the new house, site 50, the old house was moved a few rods south and used for nearly a century as a cow-shed. 52. It was here that the first schoolhouse in Ponsett was erected near a large rock. After doing service for many years, Chestnut Hill united with Ponsett and built on site 42. By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 17 53. Large New England farm house, once the home of Capt. David Spencer, wlio died here in 1850 at an advanced age. His son David and daughter Damaris, both single, lived here for many years after the death of their father. The place is at present owned and occupied by Mrs. Louis Florence, a French woman. The house is in excellent condition. 54. Story-and-a-half house built by Atwood Spencer in the early Forties, over the cellar of a house which was burned, and was formerly the home of Sergeant Abner Spencer, who died in 1802. Atwood Spencer died in 1852. His widow remained here for a number of years. Mrs. Wilcox, a daughter of Mr. Spencer has lately sold the place to a Bohemian family. Mention might be made that between 80 and 90 years ago Jehosaphat Spencer had a store here and dealt in general merchandise. ANCIEXT HIGHWAY TO HIGGANUM. 55. This is the Sutlief Place. The house has been gone, probably for a century and a half or more. The highway has long since been abandoned and the farm has become a forest. OLD ROAD TO CANDLEWOOD HILL. 56. The site of Calvin Hubbard's house. He died in 1820 and after the death of his widow their son Joshua Hubbard lived here. The house was finally deserted and fell into decay. THE GUNGER ROAD. 57. The cellar and foundation of the chimney alone remain to mark the home of Timothy Hubbard. After his death in 1809 his son Ashael succeeded him. Ashael died in 1842. A few years later Joshua Hubbard purchased the property and lived here until his death in 1866. The old house was soon afterwards taken down. 18 By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 58. A small house built by Lloyd A. Wood in the early Fifties. The Wood family have moved away and the place is now- owned by Mr. Biza. 59. The Eli Hubbard house. Mr. Hubbard died in 1817. Alanson Spencer who married a daughter of Mr. Hubbard lived here for a few years. The property was finally purchased b}' Stephen Clark. After Mr. Clark's death his son-in-law Robert Brainerd took possession of the property and he occupies the house at the present time. 60. A small cottage built by Robert Brainerd and occu- pied by him until his removal to site 59. 61. Site of the house of Aaron Hubbard. The family moved to Rockland in Nortli Bristol, now North Madison, about 1792. 62, Site of the home of James Hubbard; a large New England farm-house which stood on a high elevation, commanding a magnificent view of the Ponsett Valley. On the east the view ex- tends for miles beyond the Connecticut River, while on the west the Meriden Mountains are seen in the distance. Mr. Hubbard died in 1808, and the family moved to J^ew, Durhairi, Some years later the property was purchased by Fredus Clark who lived here until his death in 1864. Some few years after the death of Mr. Clark the house was struck by lightning and all the buildings were consumed. 63, A small house built by Henry Lee, a grandson of Fredus Clark. The place is now owned by Bohemians. Bif Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 19 THE OLD POXD ROAl). 64. A one story house with gambrel roof stood very near the dam. In the basement was a fulling mill, or clothiers works, where Asahel Bonfoey carried on quite a flourishing business for many years. On the west side of the pond is the lot where the teasles grew. With the influx of cotton and the manufacture of woolen cloth by machinery, the fulling of home-spun cloth was abandoned. Mr. Bonfoey built house at site 11 and left this place, which afterwards was occupied at different times, by Albert Thomas, Hoel Bowers, and by a Mr. Lantry. The house was taken down by Roswell Sutlief in 184*7. 65. Here stood a large Colonial house originally owned by Samuel Spencer. After his death his widow was married July 27, 1778, to Doctor Eleazer Woodruff, who took up his residence here as a practicing physician. According to tradition, he had a negro slave who was buried on the highway, on the north side of the New Road and as the bank wore away his bones fell into the gutter. Dr. Woodruff dying or moving elsewhere, the property was purchased by Captain Samuel Hubbard. Mr. Hubbard was a very enterprising man in the place. He built the grist mill site 5. He died in 1826. His estate passed out of the family and the grand old house was taken down. 66. Here was a Spencer place and ancient tavern, once the home of Capt. Abraham Spencer. After the death of Capt. Spencer it became the home of Ruel Knowlcs, later of Daniel Knowles, and lastly of Roswell and Hezekiah Sutlief. The Sut- lief s, on erecting new houses (see sites 12-13) demolished the old houses. Naught but the well remains to tell that a dwelling house once stood here. The place was sometimes called the Pine-Tree place. A lofty pine tree once stood near the house, the stump of which was remaining a few years ago. 20 By Gone Days in Ponsett-H adda?n ROAD TO GOOSK MILL. 67. Here is the site of an ancient Porter place. By whom Hie house was built cannot be learned. About 1785 a Mr. Porter lived here. He was either lost at sea or died on board a vessel when a young man. His widow married Walker Knowles. The property was purchased by Roswell Hubbard who caused the old house to be taken down. He afterward erected the frame of a new building over the old cellar, but the turnpike being opened about that time, he had the frame carried across the lot and put up and covered in another place. See site 14. 68. House erected in 1850 by James S. Thomas. He died in 1893. The house is now occupied by two of his daughters, Mrs. Olive B. Mooney and Miss Emily E. Thomas. 69. Site of a large two story house with lean-to, once the residence of Samuel Hubbard, third son of Daniel and Temper- ance Hubbard. Mr. Hubbard commanded a company of militia in the Revolutionary War. He died in 1813. His son, Smith Hub- bard, succeeded to the estate. Smith Hubbard died in 1844 and the estate became the property of James S. Thomas. The house was taken down in 1849 and a ncAv one built. See site 68. 70. This sacred enclosure is known as the Old Ponsett burying ground. It was laid out in 1761. By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 21 The three oldest inscriptions found there are the following, that of the first being misspelled Portor for Porter: Ix Memory of M8S. Naomi the Wife of MK- Giles Portor Who died June the 18th- 1762 In the 43D Year of her Age. In Memory of MK- Michael Clark Who died Nov't>r the 11th A D 1763 In the 50tli Year of his Affe. In Memory of MKS. Anne the Wife of M^- Samuel Spencer Who died Fehr>' 2ist 1769 In the 19th Year of her Age. 22 By Gone Daifs in Ponsett-H addam Tl, Said by some to have been the house place of one Porter, an early settler. Others maintain that a dwelling house never stood here because there are no marks of a cellar or chim- ney. The writer, however, is of the opinion that here is the site of an ancient cabin. 73, Originally a Thomas place. The first house was burnt and another of one story, was erected over the cellar. The last of the Thomas family to live here was Mary, the widow of Israel Thomas. Felix Spencer occupied the house for many years. He moved to site 40 and his son Jonathan P. Spencer took his place. He there lived until about 1875. The building has disappeared. 73. Who originally owned this place is unknown. Frederic Piatt, a young man, and son-in-law of Joel Hubbard, is said to have died here not far from 1790. Hazael Smith was living here in 1802. The house, probably disappeared in the Twenties. Ben- jamin F. Spencer built the present house in 1873 over the ancient cellar. Mr. Spencer occupied the house a short time and moved to Higganum. His father Jonathan P. Spencer left site 72 and lived here until his death in 1898. Alvin B. Spencer is its present occupant. THE LYNN ROAD. 74. Once the home of Capt. James Thomas. After he nioved into his new house, site 18, this one was occupied by various families, ^^z., Charles Bailey, Capt. Sylvester Brainerd, Hoel Bowers, Willard Knowles, Joseph Treat and perhaps others. The house went down in the Fifties. By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 23 75. Here was the home of Walker Knowles. The house was built about the time of his marriage to his first wife, Elizabeth Wells, in 1784. His youngest son Willard Knowles succeeded his father, and remained here until 1853 when he moved to site 11. The house remained unoccupied a few years and was then taken down. The once productive farm is now overgrown with forest. [The site of this house was on the west side of the road, and not on the east side as inadvertently located on the map.] MISCELLANEOUS. A. Site of the blacksmith shop of Capt. David Spencer. B. The site of the house of Job Hubbard Senior who died in 1822. The old house was demolished about 1853 having been unoccupied for some years. C. The new Ponsett School House, following the consolida- tion of the Ponsett and Little City districts. The building stands on, or very near the line which formerly divided the two districts. D. A one-story house built by Job Hubbard Jr. He died in 1853. His son Joseph B. Hubbard lived here until his death in 1872 or 1873. This is the birth place of Rev. D. B. Hubbard. Euzebe Florence, a Frenchman, purchased the property and lived here for a number of years and sold it to Mr. Snyder, a German. E. Little Dam, to enclose a small body of water for the use of Capt. Hubbard's Mill. F. A huge boulder. It is said that many years ago nearly all the able-bodied men in Ponsett turned out to try their strength in starting this rock rolling; but neither rum nor muscle were sufficient to so much as make it "wink." 24 Bij Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam G. The old Pond. A dam was built here at a very earl}-- date, though for what particular purpose cannot be ascertained. Some have thought a grist mill was erected here by the early settlers. Later, the water from the pond Avas used in the clothiers works. In 1847 the dam was raised a number of feet higher and the water supply used as a reservoir for the Oakum works at Higganum. H. Remains of ancient saw mill dam. I. Bridffe across Great Brook. J. The flume for Capt. Sanuel Hubbard's grist mill. The waters from the Great brook and the Salt Peter brook being turned, met here and formed, as the boys used to say, "a pond on dry land." K. Dish Mill Falls, and probably the site of Ferguson's Turning Mill. No trace of it remains. c By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 2/5 A GALAXY OF OLD FOLKS. We record here some who lived to a good old age — all reach- ing four score and beyond : Hazael Smith, commonly called "Uncle Zell," lived to be 92 and died in 1866. He was always ready to talk to the boys and boast of his youthful exploits. He liked tobacco and chewed cut plug. Lusina Hubbard Richards, wife of Jehiel Richards, well known as "Aunt Lusina," passed away in 1892 at the ripe old age of 88 years. Two generations united to pay respect to her memory. Captain James Thomas, a hale hearty old man. Died in 1842 at the age of 89. Calvin Thomas, a feeble old man, died in 1847. He was the last person buried in the Old Cemetery. James S. Thomas, a grandson of Capt. James Thomas, died in 1893 aged 89 years. Captain David Spencer, died in 1850 aged 85 years. There were two Sylvester Hubbards born the same j^ear. One died in 1864 aged 80, the other in 1872 aged 88. Willard Knowles, died in 1883 aged 81, and Minerva, his wife, in 1888 aged 81. Jehiel Richards, died in 1889 aged 81 . He was carried to Haddam for burial. David Hubbard, died in 1872 aged 82 years and Julia, his wife in 1878 aged 85. He was a son of Deacon David Hubbard, who died in 1836, and may be remembered by some elderly people. 26 By Gone Days in Ponsett-H addam Jonathan T. Spencer, died in 1898 aged 83. Epaphroditus Hubbard, died in 1895 aged 83 3'ears. He was a life-long resident of Ponsett. Cyrus A. Hubbard died in 1900 aged 83 years. We will here mention Mr. Roswell Sutlief, although he did not reach four score years. He was a veteran of the war of 1812. What pleasure it gave him to relate his experiences as a "war- rior" ! He was quite a "songster" and usually interspersed his story with some fragment of an old song, something like this : "On yonder high mountain There shines a bright light, 'Tis a pilot for sailors In the dark stormy night." I'm an old warrior, I van ! Was called to Saybrook to fight the British and slept on the salt hay, I van ! Day do de day, do de day, do de day, I van ! I been in the war ! Mr. Job Hubbard, a saintly old man, died in 1853, aged four score years. He often officiated at funerals when the services of a minister could not be procured. By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 27 UNFORGOTTEN WORTHIES. We regret that so little information can be obtained of Deacon David Hubbard. We know that he was a life-long resident of Ponsett, that he held the office of Deacon in the Haddam Congre- gational Church for many years and was a man of exemplary character. His piety was of the Puritanic type, singularly de- voted to the doctrines of his church, and with little charity for those who differed from him in religious matters. But, withal, he was sincere and earnest in his zeal for his Master. He died in 1836, at the ripe old age of 87 years. Captain Elmer Wilcox Hubbard of the regular United States Army, and a great-grand- son of Captain Jeremiah Hubbard, a brother of the above men- tioned Deacon David Hubbard, has in his possession a Military Commission dated 1781 and signed by Gov. Jonathan Trumbull appointing Jeremiah Hubbard Captain. The following are copied from the Upper Middletown, now Cromwell, Congregational Church Records. "1794. Jeremiah Hubbard and his wife are Recommended to our Communion and accepted from the C.h.h. of Ch.st in Haddam." "At a Ch.h meeting at the Meeting House Oct. 5, 1797, Dea. Timy. Gipson, Dea'n Amos Sage, and Capt. Jeremiah Hubbard were chosen a Ch.h Committee to Converse with those who walk disorderly, whether Ch.h Members. That is to say Communicants, Covenant Persons, who do not come to the Lord's Table, but claim a Right to Baptism for their children." "At a Ch.h meeting at the Meeting House Dec. 14th, 1807 the Brethren made choice of Capt. Jeremiah Hubbard to officiate in the office of a Deacon by a unanimous vote." 28 Bif Gone Days in Ponsett-Iladdain HEZEKIAH SUTLIEF. He was an ardent Methodist of the olden type, zealous in tke Master's service and always ready, in the absence of a Minister, to offer prayer by the bedside of the sick and suffering. He died in 1858 aged 69. SHERMAN H. THOMAS. A native of this place, he filled the office of deacon of the Con- gregational Church in Collinsville from 1875 to 1879. He was again elected to the same office, in 1885, which he held until his death in 1891. A zealous and devoted servant of his Master, he died in his 63rd year. WILLIAM KNOWLES. He died in 1821 at the early age of 23, a young man of deep and fervent piety, and member of the Haddam Congregational Church. In February 1820 he married Miss Lovina Alcox, now Alcott, of Wolcott. In the Fall of that year the young couple set up housekeeping in his grandfather's house in Ponsett. The January following he was seized with a fever and died. The widow returned to her father's house in Wolcott where she died the 1st day of March following, aged 20. A few of William Knowles' letters to his sister Zeruiah, which breathe the spirit of a true piety, are still extant. His rigid manner of life, however, would hardly be followed by the young disciple of the present day. The elders would be slow to recommend it and it Avould not now be considered a sign of a healthy religious life. Even to play a game of ball was considered by young Knowles as sinful. But with all his Puritanic notions we never heard of any religious controversy between him and his young wife who was an Episco- palian. By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 29 JOHN H. KNOWLES. For many years he was a seafaring man, going on his first voyage about 1822, and following the water until the spring of 1837. During that time he visited the four quarters of the globe. He died in 1870 aged 66. MISS EUNICE SUTLIEF. A passing tribute should be paid to her memory. Undoubt- edly there could still be found at this late day some specimens of her handiwork, some plaid or figured coverlet, some piece of flannel or linen cloth, a remnant of which would testify to her skill as a weaver. She was an eccentric woman, simple-minded and easily gulled by those who wished to amuse themselves by im- posing upon her good nature, and even her best friends were not above playing a practical joke upon her, according to the anec- dotes related b}' the elderly people. Living alone year in and year out, she followed the same round of domestic duties, still clinging to her loom and weaving until broken down b}^ old age, and there came a day Avhen mind and memory failed, and "aunt" Sally Knowles was called to minister to her wants. Lastly, a nephew took her to his own home and cared for her until her death. She departed this life in 1844 at the age of 88. BETTY CLARK. There are some persons now living who will remember her and her blind son, Orrin. In as many as three houses in this place they have at different times made their home, and, undoubtedly as many in Little City district have sheltered this unfortunate couple. Orrin was blind from early childhood and required con- stant care from his over-indulgent mother. He was afflicted with "rasho's" and when these spells were on, his mother must walk 30 By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam ■with hiui. As the "rasho" usually came on in the night, poor old Betty would have to turn out and walk the streets with him. Many a night have they walked up and down these roads of ours through cold and storm. How hard the woman worked to support herself and her son ! At length, worn out, she was obliged, with Or- rin, to go to the poor house where she only lived a short time. The "rasho's" still continued to afflict Orrin, and having no longer a mother to lead him about the streets his keeper was under the necessity of placing him under restraint. For many years he wore hand-cuffs to prevent his tearing his clothes or otherwise destroying things. Poor old fellow! He died with the shackles on his wrists. His attendant attempted to remove them but he begged that they might remain and his request was reluctantly complied with. MISS LAURA D. SMITH. The first piano in the place was owned by Miss Smith, who was a skilful musician and a very remarkable woman. Of her parentage there is no knowledge. About 1811 she was found, a small babe, in a basket, at the door of Mr. Jacoib Brainerd of Higganum. The town fathers gave her the name of Laura Dwight and placed her in the family of Hazael Smith of Ponsett, where she grew up with his children, calling Mr. and Mrs. Smith "father" and "mother," and taking their family name. Under the guardianship of INIr. Smith and his good Avife, she de- veloped into an interesting and accomplished young woman. She was supposed to be an Indian half-breed, her features bearing a strong resemblance to those of that race. Miss Smith died in Middletown in 1861. Her remains were brought to jNIr. Smith's house, where the funeral exercises were held and laid to rest in the Smith family lot in the Ponsett cemetery. By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 31 MRS. DEBORAH SMITH. Should the reader ever visit the old burying ground in Pon- sett there will be found near the entrance, the grave of Mrs. Deborah Smith who died in 1812 at the advanced age of 100 years. Mrs. Smith was the grandmother of Hazael Smith. Her maiden name was Spencer and she is supposed to have been born in this neighborhood. There was a romance connected with her early history — a disappointment in a love affair, all the result of a joke plaj^ed upon her by young friends, which was not explained until too late to be remedied. Although she gave her hand in mar- riage to Stephen Smith, she never gave him her heart. She used to say, "I would as soon have given my hand to any young man in the company, tlic night of my marriage, as to have given it to Stephen Smith." Her love affair was ever the chief subject of her conversation during her long life. It is evident however that her disappointment didn't shorten her days. Question : Who of the trio was most to be pitied — herself, the disappointed lover or Stephen Smith? Answer: Stephen Smith. BECKY ARNOLD, While not a native of Ponsett, Becky in her wanderings so often passed through this neighborhood that we will mention her here. Her time for disturbing the slumbers of good people, was some dark dismal night. The wilder the night and more severe the storm, the more sure the neighbors felt that Becky was on the move. At times she would be taken in, drenched through and through with rain and shivering with cold. Then, as the good housewife changed her apparel, and warmed and fed her, came the old story of her lover being lost in a storm at sea. On such wild nights there was no rest for Becky. Poor old woman! Her rest came at last. She perished in a storm of snow on the road leading to Durham. When found her body was frozen stiff. How thankful we ought to be that in these days such unfortunates are kindly cared for, and not left like Becky to wander and freeze to death bv the road side. 32 By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam SAMUEL HUBBARD. Miss Emily Thomas has in her possession an old Military Commission dated 1806 and signed b}' Gov. Trumbull, appointing her grandfather, Samuel Hubbard, Captain. A VETERAN OF 1812. Simon Knowles, son of Walker and Elizabeth Wells Knowles of this place, a veteran of the War of 1812, lived to the age of 99 and died November 23, 1884. His death was noted by a New York newspaper, shortly after the Presidential election of that year in which he cast his vote. It was stated therein that he was the oldest Freemason in the State of New York and probably the oldest man who was then voting in Delaware Count}', N. Y., where he was at that time living. For the newspaper containing these facts we are indebted to Mr. Joseph Wells of New York. JAMES ORSON THOMAS. This gentleman was born at site 69, in 1834i or 35, went to California about 1853 and returned for a visit to his parents in the winter of 1869-70. He has since visited the old home twice and is now located in a Western State where by natural force of char- acter he has risen to political and social prominence. A western paper says of him : "J. O. Thomas is the latest contributor to the records of agricultural wonders. He brought up from his Eagle garden a bunch of parsnips measuring from 20 to 26 inches in length. If Judge Thomas can spin out cases proportionately long a half dozen will last him till another election comes around." By Gone Days in Ponseft-Haddam 33 HERMOX E. HUBBARD. The son of Epaphro D. and Achsah A. Dickinson Hubbard, he was born at site 28 in IS^-t. He received a common school edu- cation at the Ponsett district school and at the age of 21 he ob- tained employment in Meriden, continuing there one year. He then located in Hartford and became engaged in the stair-building business in company with C. B. May. He returned to Meriden in 1872 and engaged in the same business, in what was known as "the Steam Mill," which was destroyed by fire the following year. In 1874, he built a planing mill on Cherry Street, which was also burned, in 1875. In 1877 he built another mill on Center Street. This building was spared the flames for twenty-six years and then met with the same fate as the others. In 1896 he was elected president of the Meriden Lumber Company and holds the position at the present time. Mr. Hubbard besides being engaged in the above mentioned lines of business has been active in municipal af- fairs. In 1885 he was elected alderman in the First ward for two years, and in 1886 he was elected First selectman for one year. About 1898 he was elected alderman in the Fifth ward, also Mayor Pro-tern. In 1899 he was appointed to serve on the first board of Park Commissioners, which position he now holds. He is also a life member in the Y. M. C. A. Mr. Hubbard was married in 1873, to Miss Lora B. Hale of Glastonbury. SMITH CLARK. This gentleman, an attorney at law, who for many years resided in Haddam Village, was a native of Ponsett and a grand- son of Capt. James Thomas. 34 By Gone Days in Pousett-H addam THE INDIAN POPULATION. Reference has been made to the Indian graves in the old bury- ing ground. They are on the back side of the enclosure, and all, save five, are unknown. Probably Annice lies in one of the un- marked graves. It is supposed that she lived somewhere on Gunger, as the neighbors on that hill kept the tradition of her more perfect than that of others. She is said to have been useful in caring for the children of her white friends, and to have been a very proud woman. She once said to Mr. Joshua Knowles, "// / live till I die, I shall not be buried in a grave like common folks but my body will be placed in a vault." The writer has Mr. Knowles' reply but forbears to give it. MOLL SQUAW AND THK .SOHUCKS. Moll Squaw was another character who figured here a cen- tury ago though it is not known where she made her home. Jim Sobuck Senior and his son Jim Sobuck junior, were noted Indians in their day. There were anecdotes connected with the Sobucks which we cannot recall, and there arc new no eldei'ly people left to relate them. Whether the Sobucks are buried here or not avc do not know. A child of Jim Sobuck junior is buried in the ancient cemetery near the Episcopal Church in Killingworth, but where he ended his days cannot now be known. PLUCKY ELIZUR SPENCER. Mr. Alanson Spencer used to toll this story of his grand- father, Elizur Spencer 1st, grappling with a big Indian at the tavern in Durham. It seems a burly Indian was in the habit of entering the tavern, and seating himself before the fire to the By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 3.) annoyance of the guests, and refusing to move until he chose to. His insolence had become unbearable and yet no one dared to offend him by putting him out. Elizur Spencer of Ponsett hear- ing of his stubbornness resolved to try a hand with him, so one winter's day he started for Durham. The Indian was found in his accustomed place before the fire. Being asked to move and sullenly refusing, Mr. Spencer took him by the nape of the neck, and with much struggling on the part of the Indian put him out of the house with, "There — I thought you'd move when 'Lizur came." Neither landlord nor guests had further trouble from the Indian. A UUKSTIOX OF HUMANITY. For many years straggling bands of Indians often passed the place and usually made their encampment near the house of Jeremiah Hubbard. On one occasion when they had built their camp-fires, the squaws proceeded to roast speckled turtles, which they had gathered on their journey, placing them alive on the hot coals. One of the Hubbard women remonstrated with them, call- ing them cruel ; whereupon an Indian woman retorted by asking, "How do 3'^ou cook clams? Do you first kill them or do you put them in a kettle and place them alive over a slow fire— which is the most cruel, to roast live turtles or boil live clams?" THE COCKAPOKSITS. Little i.s now known of the Cockaponsit Indians or wliero they buried their dead before the coming of the white man. Occasionally the farmer will unearth an arrow head, which shows that our hills and vales were once the hunting ground of the red man. But alas !, the proud Indian has long since departed, crowded out by a superior race, who could drive a bargain with the native kings and queens, and for thirty coats, valued at a little over three dollars apiece, purchase a whole township. And when, in a few months, the coats were worn out, the poor Indian found not only that the coats were gone, but that tlie land also liad passed out of his hands forever. 36 By Gone Days in Ponsett-H nddam THE FAMILY OF ABKAM SIMOXS. \Vc will now turn to an interesting stor^' — one with a begin- ning bright and full of promise and an end dark and sad, that of the last of the Indian race in Ponsett — the family of Abram Simons ; and as we write we wish that the end of this inter- esting family could have been as bright as the beginning. But poor Lo received little help from his white brethren — the}- rather pulled him down instead of building him up. Abram Simons lived at site 37. How he came to settle there the writer cannot tell. He was a Narragansett Indian, while Prudence his wife, or Dence as she was commonly called, was from one of the Long-Island tribes. She came to him with one daughter named Tamar. Abram was educated at Dartmouth College. Before going into the later history of the family, the attention of the reader is invited to the following letter : Dartmouth College, Hanover, N. H. Aug. 2, 1905. My dear Mr, I have had an interesting time this morning hunting for information concerning Abraham Simons. He is not a graduate of Dartmouth, but was a student here. He was a student in Moor's Indian Charity School at Lebanon, Conn., and wjien Dart- mouth was founded in 1 769 by Dr. Wheelock, who had conducted the Charit}'^ School, two Indians came with him, Abraham and Daniel Simons, then spelled Symons. Daniel remained here and graduated from College 1777, then became a teacher and preacher. Abraham remained here until 1772 and then was sent by Dr. Wheelock among the Tuscaroras of Central N, Y. His story in this connection is given by Wheelock on the separate sheet here- with enclosed. After that period Abraham disappears from all Dartmouth records. I do not at present know how to find anything further, but probably his after life would be treated in some history of the Narragansett or Six Nations Indians. If I come upon any further information I shall let you know. Yours sincerely (Signed) R. W. Husband. By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 37 The following is from the other sheet referred to by Prof. Husband in his letter above. Whkklock — A narrative of the Rise and Progress of the Indian Charity School 1773. p. p. 7-8. October 21/1772. John Matthews of the Narragansett Tribe, having received an education in this school sufficient for a school- master, I sent to Mr. Kirkland, in order to learn the language of that tribe, and to be employed as Mr. Kirkland should think proper, till he should be sufficiently master of that tongue, to be an instructor among the Six Nations, and after that to return and further pursue a course of useful studies, to qualify him for that purpose, if it should then appear expedient. He made me a visit last Februar}', and gave an account of the kind treatment he had met with among the Indians, and was of opinion that schools might be had for him and his cousin Abraham Symons, who has also been fitting in this school for the same purpose. Whereupon I proposed to them, that I would give them a reasonable support among the Indians, if they would undertake and faithfully pursue the business of school-keeping, till they should themselves become sufficient masters of that language. They set out on that tour Feb. 27th, and June 20th, Symons returned and brought an ac- count which was also confirmed by a letter from Mr. Avery, that the Indians in a large meeting called for that purpose, determined to have no more English schools or missionaries among them, so that mv hopes of being useful to them in such a way were cut off." The Daniel Simons mentioned above is presumably a brother of Abram or Abraham as the College records spell his name; but the Rev. Dr. Field in his history of Haddam invariably spelt his name Abram. Of his early life, however, we know no more than what Prof. Husband has written. 38 By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam abram's later life. We have a very imperfect account of Abrani during the next twenty 3'ears after his leaving Dartmouth. That he followed school-teaching a part of the time is proba'blc, as in after life he took great pleasure in visiting the district school and talking to the scholars, and telling them how he used to punish his pupils by tmisting their ears. It is thought he married his first wife somewhere in Massachusetts and that the marriage was an un- happy one. Two noble young Indians who occasionally visited Dence were said to have been her step-sons. One of them was deeply interested in Tamar and tried to persuade her to go away with him, but she refused his offer preferring to remain with her mother. Abram and Dence eventually settled in Ponsett where their four children, two sons and two daughters were born, Sylvanus in 1795, Abram in 1797, Esther about 1801 and Prudence, otherwise called Prudy, in 180-1. Abram was a man much respected, and Dence for her sterling worth endeared herself to her white neigh- bors. The two procured a livelihood and were respectable inhabi- tants, but a cloud passed over the family. In 1805 young Abram died and two years later his brother followed him. The heart of Abram Avas buried in the grave with his boj's ; his hopes were blighted and the Indian father never recovered from the blow. He lived until 1812 when he followed his boys to the spirit world. His body was taken from the house in a violent rain storm and carried to the grave in an ox-cart. Owing to the severity of the storm the widow and her daughters could not follow him to the grave. His age was 63 years. Now began Dence's struggle to maintain herself and family, and courageously she took up her heavy burden. Her occupation was that of basket-making, and with the help of Tamar she suc- ceeded in providing for herself and daughters. Esther and Prudy By Gone Days in Pons'eft-Haddam 39 were kept in school, laboring at a disadvantage through the jeal- ousy of the whites. Being Indians, they were kept at the foot of the class. Notwithstanding that in a spelling match Prudy could spell them all down, she was not allowed to pass above a white scholar. Finally the younger girls were able to weave baskets and thus add to their little store. Dence, by strict economy, laid by a considerable sum of money towards building a new house, for the old building had become poor, and besides there was no oven in the chimney. She was looking forward with pleasure to her new house and oven, when she was persuaded to lend her money to a neighbor and lost it all. The old house was finally burnt, taking fire from sparks from the fire place. When the alarm was given Tamar came down stairs bringing her bed with her. A hovel was then erected and in this miserable abode Tamar sickened and died. The town fathers with help from the neighbors built a new house over the old cellar, and in this house good old Dence finished her course in 1836, aged about 80 years. ESTHER AND PRUDY SIMONS. These Indian maidens having had in early years the advan- tage of an educated father to instruct them, and after his death the privileges of the district school, were not behind many of their white neighbors in a common education. Prudy had a library of many good books, which in that day very few white girls could boast of. There being no young Indians to take them in marriage, they made the great mistake in receiving the attention of low whites, and this caused the ruin of the family. In a carousal on the evening of May 13th, 1837 the house caught fire. Prudy es- caped the flames but Esther was burnt with the building. The neighbors gathered up her remains and buried them beside her mother. From this time, Prudy, although without a home, always found employment, sometimes at house-work and again at basket- 40 By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam making or weaving splint seats for chairs. At last, in 1870, being in feeble health, she went to the poor house in Haddam where she soon died. Her request to be brought to Ponsett for burial was not complied with, there being no one with sufficient interest to carry out the wishes of this last member of the family of Abram Simons. She was buried in the pauper's corner of the old town yard. And here is the sorrowful ending of the Indian family. By Gone Days in Ponaett-Haddaiv 41 A NOBLE ARMY OF MARTYRS. It has been said that old maids are the salt of the earth, and many of us know how "handy" the maiden "Aunt" is in the family. They are always supposed to be ready to "help out" in sickness or any other adversity — why shouldn't they.'' Having no family ties of their own, they ought to be ready to run at the beck and call of all their married relations. If Almah had an ailment "Aunt" Rhoda or Dassie was sent for and she quickly got relief. Who could make a bandage or dress a wound more deftly than "Aunt" Lusina.? And while applying the bandage she would tell a story that would make a boy laugh and forget his pain. If a button came off or his pants were torn, while mother was busy, "Auntie" was always ready to mend the rent or sew on the button. What timely advice many of them could give parents in regard to the governing of children ! How vividly we recall the form and features of many of these estimable women — for instance, the mild peace-loving face of Miss Miriam Hubbard ! The epitaph on her gravestone beginning with, "God claims thee gentle one," is but a fitting tribute to her memory. In 1845 and the twenty years following, Ponsctt was certainly blessed with a goodly number of these excellent unmarried women. The roll of lionor ran something like this : Thankful and Mariam Smith, Cynthia Thomas, Miriam, Rhoda and Hadassah Hubbard. These were well advanced in years, while closely following came Damaris Spencer, Lusina Hubbard, Cleantha Brainerd, Tamson and Jerusha Bonfoey, Laura and Mary Smith and I^ucy Smith. Cleantha, Lucy, Mary and Jerusha deserted the ranks and entered wedlock. 42 By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam A few years later Lusina, at the age of sixty-two, passed over into the matrimonial state; but the vacancy was soon filled hy Hannah, Esther and Ursula Spencer, ^Miranda Knowles, Ellen Brainerd and others. After serving a few years Esther and Ellen also deserted and made faitliful wives and step-mothers. No tongue can tell how )uany of these worthies had lying buried deep in the heart some romance of early life. Some lover married the other girl, another young man proving wortWess was rejected, while a few might have given Dinah Gladwin's reason for remaining single, — "I was to have been married but he died." By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 43 CHAPTER OF CASUALTIES. Not far from the year 1800, Asa Walkley, a worthy resident of the place was struck by lightning and instantly' killed, while sitting by his window during a thunder shower. Edmund Hubbard, a son of Joel Hubbard, is supposed to have perished at sea, about 1790. The exact date cannot be ascertained as the vessel with officers and crew was never heard from. It is a remarkable coincidence that John Hubbard, another son of Joel Hubbard, is also supposed to have been lost, in a gale at sea, on the 10th of September, 1800, while on a vessel bound for the West Indies, which vessel, also, was never heard from. Thus, five young men from the town of Haddam, nearly all, if not all of them from Ponsett, must have met an untimely end. Their names were John Hubbard, Willard Knowlcs, Chal- lenge Smith, Prince Thomas and another by the name of Porter. Abraham Brooks was killed by falling from a ladder while engaged in painting house at site 14, his head striking on a rock near the north west corner of the building. His age was 73. August 31st, 1827, William Lanfier, a step-son of John Knowles, and the son of his wife Sarah by a former marriage, was killed on the road to Haddam. He was riding on a stick of timber and somehow lost his balance and fell, the wheel of the cart passing across his breast. He Avas conveyed to the house of Mrs. Simons, an Indian woman, where, in a short time, he breathed his last. His age was 20 years. 44 By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam Esther Simons, an Indian woman, perished in a fire in 1837. The sad story of her closing days is found in a preceding chapter. In 1863 Mrs. Nancy M. Huntington was found lying un- conscious by the road side having been thrown from a wagon. She died in a few hours. December 30th, 1869, John H. Knowles, a sufferer from fall- ing sickness, was seized with a fit and scalded, from the effects of which he died six days after. In 1857, Oswin Hubbard a sailor, a grandson of Eli Hub- bard, fell from mast-head, striking the rail of the ship, and was lost in the sea. Bji Gone Days in Ponsett-H adduJi} 45 PONSETT'S PICTURESQUE FEATURES. Ponsett abounds with hill and vales ; the prospect from some of elevations being magnificent. From Gunger heights the view towards the east is enchanting, and looking over the Ponsett valley, the eye stretches on beyond the Connecticut river to an immense distance. Tourists who climb the hill are delighted with the pros- pect, which for grandeur is rarely surpassed elsewhere in this country. From Goose hill the scene is scarcely less beautiful. Here we get a fine view of the lovely Connecticut as it winds its way to Long Island Sound. The picturesque village of Moodus, which nestles amid the hills on the east side of the Connecticut, is plainly to be seen, and a fine view is obtained of the lofty spire on the Congregational Church at Little Haddam. We also catch a glimpse of the spires at Haddam Neck, Middle Haddam, and Hig- ganum, while the cross of St. James' Church in the Ponsett valley rises over the surrounding hills. From Knowles hill an extensive view is obtained of the Connecticut valley. From John's hill, whose summit until recently was crowned with a huge apple tree, which had stood the wintry blasts of a century and was plainly visible from Millington green, is seen an enchanting prospect of lofty hills and deep valleys ; the hill sides being dotted with farm houses,, and villages showing in the distance. From Calvin Hill with its sheep rock, a shelving ledge under which a flock of sheep were once struck by lightning, we obtain a view of Beaver Meadow and Turkey Hill. 46 By Gone Days in P onset t-Haddam OUR PRODUCTIVE SOIL. Our hill sides arc well adapted for grazing, while the flat lands with diligent culture are very productive. The soil is good and generally very grateful for what is done to it. In the olden times our hills were crowned with wheat, but the incoming of the hessian fly put a stop to wheat raising. Rye, Indian corn, buckwheat, barley, and some oats, are the principal products grown at the present time, together with potatoes, turnips and other vege- tables. Fruit growing is in a few instances made to pay quite well. Apple orchards are less numerous than formerly, when nearly every man had a cider mill on liis farm, but there is not a cider mill left in Ponsett. The dairy business is followed to some extent, and swine and poultry are also raised for home use. The lowlands are well adapted for grass growing and nearly every farm is well supplied with living springs of water. Flax was raised here to some extent as late as the Forties, when every housewife knew how to spin linen. The pleasant hum of the little flax wheel is heard no more ; the buzz of the sewing machine has taken its place. The farmer is no longer employed on cold winter days in breaking and dressing flax and other em- ploynients have succeeded this once important industry. Some- times we are inclined to think the former days were better than these. Nevertheless we would not like to go back to those far away times for we now have comforts unknown to our fore- fathers. Let us be thankful that our lot has fallen on better days. By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 47 FAMILIAR STREAMS. The Great brook, commonly called the Ponsett brook, which drains the valley from the west, receives numerous tributaries that come from the hills. After receiving the waters of the Salt Peter brook it becomes a good-sized stream, and makes a pleasant picture as it rushes over the Dish-mill falls, then, passing on a mile or more and receiving other tributaries, it becomes Hig- ganum river and enters the Connecticut at that place. There is another small brook which is one of the sources of Mill river and has its origin in a boiling spring a few rods south of site 25. This little stream runs in an easterly direction and enters the Connecticut at Haddam. All these streams abound in fish and are a source of great delight to the angler. Still another little rippling stream must not be forgotten, the Coal-Pit brook, which has its rise in Polly ledges, crossing the Morris road on its way to the Great brook. No bridge has ever been built over the brook at the Morris road crossing, and in winter the stream is often swollen and turbulent. It was at this crossing, in January, 1804*, where Mrs. Eunice Skinner, returning from the funeral of Mrs. Judith Knowles waded the torrent in a blinding storm of snow. 48 By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam THE ROLL OF CLERICALS. The Rev. Jonathan Burr Hubbard, son of Amasa and Betsey Burr Hubbard, was born at site 50, April 9th, 1810. He became a Presbyterian minister and settled at Middle Granville, N. Y. In 1844 he married Miss Marj^ Eleanor Fish, at Whitesboro near Utica, N. Y. He also served in the ministry in Wood County Ohio and at Adrian Mich., where he died. The Rev. David Brainerd Hubbard, son of Joseph S. and Emma Brainerd Hubbard, born April 30th, 1847. His birth place was at site C. After receiving an education at the Little City district school he entered the Wilbraham Academy and Wesleyan College and then the Hartford Theological Seminary from which he graduated in 1872. He was or- dained to the Ministry in the Congregational Church at Staf- fordville where he had officiated during his senior year at the Seminary. Early in 1874 he received a call from the church in Canton Center, which he accepted, remaining there eleven years. He then removed to Middletown, and became pastor of the Con- gregational Church in Westfield, Avhcre he has remained and done faithful work in the parish for twenty-two 3'ears. He has been no rover, but diligent in the Master's service, in the place where Divine Providence has, unquestionably, appointed him. He has also been one of the foremost and active members of the Westfield Grange, serving as Chaplain and Lecturer. Mr, Hubbard has twice married, first to Miss Harriet E. Burr and secondly to Miss Alice R. Burr, his wives being sisters, and daughters of Jonathan By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam 49 H. and Margaret Denison Burr of Little Cit}^ district. As a pastor, Mr. Hubbard sympathizes with the afflicted, having him- self drank deeply of the bitter cup of affliction. Four lovely chil- dren, their ages ranging from two to twenty-one years, lie buried in the neat little cemetery by the road-side in Little City. He has seven children now living, the youngest eleven years old. The Rev. George Wood, son of Lloyd A. and Delia A. Clark Wood, became a Methodist Minister. He is now living in Cali- fornia. The Rev. William Clark Knowles, son of John H. and Tanson M. Clark Knowles, was born at site 29, March 23, 1840. He studied for the Ministry under the Rev. Dr. Deshon of Meriden and was ordained Deacon in St. Andrews Church in that city in 1875. He was ordained Priest in 1886 in Emmanuel Church Killing- worth. 50 By Gone Days in Ponsett-Haddam PUBLIC WORSHIP. For over a century our ancestors attended public worship at the Congregational Church at Haddam. Many were obliged to go a distance of four miles over the rough roads, and those living in the Little City district from one to two miles farther. There were no light wagons in those days, the journey being usually made on horseback, the husband on the saddle and the wife seated on a pillion behind him, while others made the journey on foot. The Congregational Church was the standing order, and a generation had come up who knew no other mode of worship. The township being of extensive area with constantly increasing population it must have been almost impossible for one pastor to keep watch over so wade a territory, or feed so large a flock. In the remote corners of the town the consequence was, probably, indifference and neglect of religious duties to an alarming extent. This was remedied in a great measure, by the organization in 1793, of a Methodist Society in the western part of the town. As the house of worship, erected in 1795 was located in that por- tion of Ponsett known as the Burr district, we will not attempt to give its history here. For additional information concerning it the reader is referi'ed to an Historical Sketch of this church, by Rev. Saul O. Curtice, wherein is given an account of the good vv-ork done by the Ponsett M. E. Church. In looking over the list of members we find the names of over fifty persons from this dis- trict, who, since its organization have been connected with this Society. Bij Gone Days in Ponsett-H addam 51 St. James' Protestant Episcopal Church began with a small Sunday School in 1861. Lay-reading began the first Sunday in Advent of that year. The Rev. H. B. Hitchings, rector of St. Stephen's Ohurch East Haddam, gave the first clerical service, fol- lowed later on by the Rev. H. T. Gregory, the Rev. Francis Goodwin, and an occasional visit from Bishop Williams. Interest increasing, a lot was procured and ground broken for a church in 1871. The following year the cornerstone was laid and in 1873 the building was closed in, and formally opened by the Rev. Samuel Fuller D. D. of Middletown. The next year, 1874, the interior was finished and the Rev. Dr. Coit of the Berkeley Divinity School, gave the opening service. In 1877, all debts on the building being discharged, the church was consecrated. In 1889 a tower was added and a bell raised to its place amid great rejoicing. As this is not a Church History no more need be said, only thanks for the Divine blessino". 52 By Gone Days in Ponsett-H addam THE MEDICAL PROFESSION. Over a century has passeL\S, PRINCE 43 THOMAS, ROGER 11, 57 THOM.AS, SHERMAN H 27 TOWKISHE, QUEEN 4 TREAT. C( ).MF()RT J 11 TREAT, JOSEPH 22 TREMAINE, DR 52 TRUMBULL, JONATHAN 27 TURNER, JOHN 5, 8 TURRAMUGGUS, KING 4 WALKLEY, ASA 10, 43 WARNER, DR 52 WELLS, ELIZABETH 23 WELDS, JOSEPH 32 WHEELOCK, DR 36, 37 WIILCOX, ANCESTRY 57 WILCOX, EBENEZER 6 WILCOX, FREDERICK 7 WILCOX, JOHN 57 WILCOX, MRS 17 WILLIAMS, BISHOP 51 WINCHELL, GEORGE D 14 WOOD, DELIA A. CLARK 49 WOOD, REV. GEORGE 49 WOOD, LLOYD A 18, 49, 55 WOODRUFF, BLEAZER 52 WOODRUFF, DR. E.LEAZER 19, 52 PRESS THE SCHOEN PRINTING CO. 13-15 VANDEWATER ST. NEW YORK T^^v >t UC SOUTHERN REGIONAL LIBRARY FACILITY A 000 105 645 6