282 VERMONT HISTORICAL MAGAZINE.
To twine the wreath by sorrow riven,—
And wake the angel smile of peace,
The storm is past the dream is gone.
The heart has burst its mournful spell
The song of love flows gently on,
Nor feels the saddening word "Farewell."
NEARER HOME.
Solemnly one Sabbath evening
Sweet and mournful tolled the bell,
As they brought his form and laid it
Neath the hill.
In the pure and solemn starlight
Softly rose the funeral strain,
And it breathed of peace and Heaven,
Not of pain.
Hushed was every sad repining,
Banished every wail of woe—
He is only up in heaven,
I below!
Here I am content to labor
In the wide-spread field of life,
Aiding if I can the weak ones—
In the strife—
Thus my barque moves swiftly onward
Heedless of the eddying foam,
Every Sabbath evening brings me—
Nearer home.
THE WATCHER OF THE FALLING LEAF.
"Oh, I love," she softly whispered,
"Love to watch the falling leaf,
I can hear a sweet voice calling,
Every time a leaf is falling—
Life is brief—Life is brief?"
Now it is the merry spring-time—
All the world is full of life,—
Sweetest flowers are early springing,
Joyful birds are gaily singing,
And the air with joy is rife.
But the girl that used to welcome
With her smiles the balmy spring,
Long ago was sweetly sleeping,
Where the evergreen is creeping
And the wild birds daily sing.
She, one sober, mellow autumn.
Gently drew her latest breath
When the soul is freed from sighing—
Soars above, no longer dying,
Can you say this is DEATH?
Long ago—the world so busy,
Cannot heed the falling leaf—
Cannot hear thy gentle whispers,
Mingling with the evening vespers
"Life is brief—life is brief!"
MORGAN
BY REV. JACOB S. CLARK.
The town of Morgan is situated in the N. E. part of Orleans County, lat. 44° 50´ N. long. 5° 5´ E. The form of the township is irregular, bounded on the N. by Holland & Derby E. & N. E. by Warner's Grant & Warren Gore, S. E. by Brighton and S. W. by Charleston & Salem.
It consists principally of what was originally chartered by the name of Caldesburgh. The charter is dated Nov. 6, 1780. It was charterd by the State of Vermont, Thomas Chittenden Governor, to 64 grantees with five public rights viz. one for first settled minister, one for the support of the Gospel, one for college, one for county grammar school, and one for common school, each right containing 314 acres.
Names of Grantees.
Colonel Jedediah Elderkin, John Lawrence, Jas. Church, Hon. Matthew Griswold, William Perkins, Eliphalet Dyer, George Willys, James Jipson, Fenn Wadsworth, John Calders, William Watson, Hezekiah Merrill, William Knox, William Knox jr., Colton Murry, Samuel Goodwin, James Tiley, John Kenfield, Thomas Hildrup, Inneas Calder, Jabez Huntington, Joseph Bingham, Thomas Dyer, Willobee Lowel, James Kilbourn, Asa Corning, William Adams, Edward Dodd, William Webster, John Cook, Samuel Mattocks, Nathaniel Steel, Ashbell Willis, Henry White, Asahel Cheney, David Little, Israel Seymour, John Burbridge, Seth Collins, Samuela Burr, James Knox, John Hall, Solomon Smith, Daniel Hinsdale, Joseph Burr, John Watson, Luke Wadsworth, Daniel Marsh, John Chapman, Sheldon Grayham, Titus Watson Edward Bodge, William Lawrence, George Merrill, Daniel Pitkin, Charles Hopkins, George Pitkin, Abiel Cheney, Thomas Jocilin, Hildrup, Hezekiah Bissel, Asa Benton Moses Crafts, Samuel Lawence and John Indicott.
After the town was allotted (157 acres in each lot) an alteration was made in town lines and the south easterly portion was annexed to the township Wenlock,—and to the north westerly on the N. W. Brownington Gore—and on the N. E. Whitelaw's Gore—and the name of the town hanged from Caldesburgh to Morgan. That part of the town formerly Caldesburgh contains about 15000 acres, Brownington 3.500, Whiteaw's Gore 2.000, making the entire area of the town 20.000 acres, including water.
Brownington Gore was granted by the State of Vermont to the proprietors of Brownington and was allotted (40 acres in each lot,) in July A. D. 1807 by Hon. Samuel Hinman.
Some parts of the town are comparatively level, or gently sloping—other parts are broken with a pleasant variety of hills and valleys. There are no elevations of land which are here called mountains, though some might properly
MORGAN. 283
bear that name. Elon hill and Bear hill are the most considerable elevations. Elon hill is so called on account of a settlement being commenced upon it by Elon Wilcox, and Bear hill receives its name from the circumstance of a bear having been seen upon it, before the town was settled, by a passing stranger.
From the summit of the former, we have a fine prospect. In a clear day, may be seen Lakes Memphremagog and Willoughby with a great many smaller collections of water and several villages in the neighboring towns. In the back-ground the more distant peaks of the Green Mountains meet the eye. There is also a chain of hills running through the town which (to the knowledge of the writer) has never received a name.
Seymour Lake is the principal collection of water. It lies in the form of a clumsy boot and covers an area of more than 16000 acres. Somewhere in this lake is said to be the geographical center of the town. It is one of the most beautiful sheets of water in the State, and the scenery around it is grand and picturesque. It abounds with several kinds of fish, which rendered it of no small account to the early settlers. Lunge, cusk and white fish are the principal. Some very large ones of the first mentioned have been caught. The largest is said to have weighed 39½ lbs. Others at different times have been taken, weighing all along from 20 to 30 lbs. The smaller kinds weighing from 1½ to 12 pounds are generally esteemed the most palatable. It is a fact worthy of notice that though there have been many hair-breadth escapes of those who have been fishing and sailing on this lake, no one has ever yet been drowned in it.
Being fed by numerous living springs its water is remarkably cold and pure. As another peculiarity,—it takes much cold weather to freeze it over. For weeks after lake Memphremagog and all the other bodies of water in this vicinity have been bound in icy fetters. Lake Seymour may be seen steaming and lashing its shore as if in defiance of the frigid blasts.
There are three other inconsiderable ponds in town, two of which are named, one Meed, and the other Toad-pond. The last mentioned is the source of a small stream, known by the name of Sucker-brook. It receives its name from the multitude of suckers taken from it. From one of the other lying in the north part of the town, and partly in Holland, flows the Millbrook that empties into the head of the lake.
Ferren's River passes through a part of the town bordering on Brighton, in the valley of which passes the Atlantic and St. Lawrence Rail Road. Almost every part of the town, is well watered by living springs and small rivulets.
The principle growth of hard wood timber is sugar-maple, yellow birch, beech, elm, and brown and yellow ash,—that of soft wood is hemlock, spruce, fir, tamarack and cedar. The rocks are mostly granite, slate and milk quarts. Some beautiful specimens of crystal quartz have been found. There is a quarry of joint granite of the very nicest quality on the east side of the lake. Much of it has been transported to other towns for monuments and other choice purposes.
The soil in general, for an upland town, is easily wrought and very productive. In the eastern section some of the farms are well supplied with granite boulders.
In regard to natural curiosities, there have been few discovered worthy of notice. Near the south-eastern shore of the lake there is a rock familiarly known by the name of the oven rock. It takes its name from a cavity on the side towards the shore very much resembling a brick oven. On the farm, also, of Dea. Wm. Little, the writer has been informed of late, that there Is a rock judged to weigh some 20 tons, lying with the rounding side upon another rock, so completely balanced that a very little strength applied to it will tip it either way, and when the force is removed it will adjust itself.
Among the hills in the eastern part of the town, (as reported by hunters and others, who have traversed the forest for different purposes) there are several caverns, fit habitations for wild beasts; but none of them have ever been explored.
Before the forest was broken by the "sturdy blows" of the first settler, there was a piece of land now attached to the farm of Mrs. Wiggins which had every appearence of having been cleared at some former period. This little plot, from the first settlement of the town, has been called the Indian garden. It is also reported by some aged persons, that more than forty years ago an aged Indian passed along in this vicinity, and stated to those who conversed with him, that in the days of his grandfather, when he was but a child, a company of the red men had their hunting-ground about this lake, then famous for beaver; and that the piece of land referred to was the place of their encampment. This is not at all improbable, since but a short distance from this, near the mouth of the head.
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stream of the lake, a beaver-meadow furnishes unmistakable evidence of the former existence of these industrious little animals in this place.
The town took its name from one of the original proprietors, John Morgan, Esq., of Hartford, Ct. Of him the first settlers purchased their lands.
FIRST SETTLERS,
In 1802 Mr. NATHAN WILCOX removed with his family from Hillingsworth, Ct., and was the first settler, His children were Benjamin, Calvin, Jeremiah, Luther and Nathan Jr. The names of the girls were Deborah, Lydia, Thankful, Rachel and Lucy.
An incident occurred in his family, soon after his settlement, worthy of a passing notice. His second daughter, Lydia, then but a small child, was sent one morning to the woods to get some sprigs of fir or cedar for a broom. Wandering farther than she was aware, she was soon lost. As she did not return the family became alarmed, and with such help as could be raised from Holland, went in search; but no traces of her could be found.
The distressed parents were almost ready to give up their little one as irrecoverably lost. But before night-fall their cows, which roamed the woods for their living, came in, and, to the great joy of all, behold! their little girl was with them. It seems, from her account, that she found the cows in the fore-part of the day; and, with remarkable presence of mind for a child, followed them all day long through "thick and thin," briers and brush, till they came into the opening, when she left them and ran to the house with clothes much torn, and skin sadly scratched by means of the rough things with which she had come in contact.
But two of those boys who came from Connecticut are now living—Calvin and Nathan, jr., Calvin left this town many years ago and removed to Stanstead, C. E.
Nathan, with the exception of a few years, has always lived in town. John M., the youngest son, and born here, lives on the old homestead.
Lydia, the only daughter now living, married a Mr. Boyington, and emigrated to the State of Illinois.
MR. CHRISTOPHER BARTLETT, the second settler, removed from Strafford Ct., A. D.1805, with a family of seven—Lyman, Samuel, Jarvis, Austin, John, Artimitia and Polly. He had also born here Zenas and Byram. Four of the boys that came from Connecticut, and the two born in Morgan, settled here. John and Zenas have emigrated, and now reside in Massachusetts.
The oldest daughter married Mr. John Foss, and removed to Charleston, this county. Her husband died in a few years, when she returned to this town, and still lives, a widow of 80 years. Her sister Polly married Mr. John Elliot, and till within a few years dwelt on the old homestead, but having disposed of that, she now resides in another part of the town. This large family, so far as known, are all living, and all good
From 1802 to 1807, we find but 8 persons who were legal voters that had made a settlement, viz. Nathan, Wilcox, (his brother) Benjamin, Calvin, and Jeremiah, (sons of Nathan,) Christopher Bartlett, Wm. D. Weeks and Ebenezer Bayley.
The above named individuals, so far as known, are the only settlers before the town was organized.
The first town-meeting was warned by Eber Robinson, Esq., of Holland, March 25, 1807. At that meeting Christopher Bartlett was chosen moderator and town clerk—Elon Wilcox, Nathan Wilcox, Ebenezer Bayley, selectmen—Wm. D. Weeks, constable—Christopher Bartlett, grand juror—Benjamin Wilcox, Calvin Wilcox, W. D. Weeks, listers—Christopher Bartlett, "keeper of the keys." At the close of the meeting the following vote is recorded.
"Voted, that the hemlock tree at the crotch of the road to Brownington, and Navy, shall be the place to set up warnings for town-meetings.'
The best data that can be obtained for ascertaining the names, for ten years or more, is the grand list. After the organization of the town, up to 1817, we find recorded the following: Luther Wilcox, Benj. Varnum, Erastus Hatch, Eli Fletcher, Samuel Bartlett, James Ingarson, George L. Varnum, David Hamblet, Enos Harvey, Flint Foster, William Hamblet Enos Bishop. Silas Wilcox, Ira Leavens, William Cobb, Jr., Rufus Stewart, Jotham Cummings, John Hedge, Israel E. Cheney, George Stiles, John Willard, Samuel Killam, Daniel Brown, Moses T. Burbank, Zacheus Senter, Oliver Miner, Joseph Mansur, John Buzzel, Ruel Cobb, Austin Colburn, Francis Chase, John Bishop, J. Bartlett. It is not certain that the above named are all that settled in town during the time specified, as there are two or more years in which the grand list is put down in figures on the town book, and no names attached to it.
The sum total of the grand list in each year, as it appears on the records, stands thus: in 1801, $599.75 cents; 1808 $658.45 1809, $928.00
MORGAN. 285
in 1810; $1485.25 ; 1811, $1558 25; 1812, $1105.25; 1813, $837.00; 1814, $1095.37; 1815, 1099.62; 1816, $953.75; 1817, $1186.50.
There appears to be a great diminution in the amount of the grand list in 1812—13, which was not wholly made up for years afterwards. This happened, in parts at least, in consequence of the war. Some enlisted and entered the United States service, and others left the town because of its proximity to Canada. About the same time there arose a dispute about the titles to the land, which occasioned much litigation; and so but few of those who had left ever returned to claim their possessions. It being some time before the titles were fully settled, the settlement of the town was greatly retarded.
The early settlers here, in common with the first settlers in most other places, were obliged to encounter many hardships and privations.—There was no grist-mill nearer than West Derby or Rock Island in Stanstead. As they then traveled, either of these places was 15 miles distant. In the summer and fall seasons the roads were impassable, only on foot or on horseback. Mr. Bartlett owned a horse, but could obtain no pasturing for it short of Derby Centre, 10 miles off. Whenever they needed any milling done, some one of the family must take one day to go after the horse; the next day start for the mill with about 2 bushels—tarry over night for their grist—on the third day return home—on the fourth turn out their horse.
Those who owned no team were obliged to go on foot and bear the burden themselves. It is related of Mr. James Ingarson, a noted rhymer of his time (not to say poet), that as he was passing along with a bag of grain on his shoulder, some of his neighbors accosted him respecting his going to mill; to which he immediately replied, without turning his head, or seeming to notice them:
"I own neither horse, nor mare, nor mule, nor jack;
So I go to mill with my grist on my back"
John Morgan Wilcox, the son of Nathan and Rachel Wilcox, was the first child born in town. He was named for John Morgan, Esq. before mentioned.
The first marriage was that of Luther Wilcox and Lucinda Dean of Grafton, N. H. It was solemnized at Morgan, July 25, 1807, by Eber Robinson, Esq., of Holland.
Lucy Wilcox was the first person that died In town: her death occurred March 1, 1809—age 13 years and 16 days. She was the youngest daughter of Nathan and Rachel Wilcox.
The first framed house was built by Major Rufus Stewart, about one half mile north of the Four Corners. It was a small, one-story house, and never finished. Some 20 years ago it was taken down, and on the site a more commodious house has been built and finished by Mr. Andrew Twombly.
TOWN CLERKS.
Christopher Bartlett, 1807; Erastus Hatch, 1808, '09, '10, and '11; Ira Leavens, 1812— 1833; John Bartlett, 1834-1839; Austin Bartlett, 1840; Charles Cummings, 1841, '42; Samuel Hemenway, 1843—deceased in March, '43, and in April Charles Cummings was appointed to fill the vacancy; Charles Cummings, 1844—1851; Byram Bartlett, 1852—1854; Zenas Bartlett, 1855—1861. In the spring of 1862 he removed to Holland, and May 10th, George Bartlett was appointed. Paran Huntoon, 1863; G. Bartlett, 1864—'69.
The first justices of the peace were, Nathan Wilcox, Rufus Stewart, Ira Leavens and Jotham Cumings.
THE POST-OFFICE
was established in the month of October, 1843—Samuel Bartlett, the first postmaster, held the office about 20 years.
The other postmasters that have been appointed are Wesley Foster, Moses Huntoon and Lorenzo Williams, the present incumbent.
PHYSICIANS.
Doctor NATH'L J. LADD was the first physician that ever settled here. He practiced a number of years in this vicinity with general acceptance; but thinking there was not sufficient encouragement for his calling, left, and removed to Meredith bridge, N. H., where, so far as is known, he still resides.
Doctor LEONARD MORGAN took up his residence in town a few years before Dr. Ladd's exit, and continued his practice till 1839, when he also left, and went to the State of Georgia. Since that time we have had no physician in town.
There has never been sufficient encouragement for the legal profession to induce a lawyer to settle among us.
It is not known that more than one person brought up in this town has had a liberal education. Jacob M. Clark was graduated at the University of Vermont in August, 1845.
REPRESENTATIVES.
Rufus Stewart, the first, chosen Sept. 5, 1807; next after him was Ira Leavens. It is
286 VERMONT HISTORICAL MAGAZINE.
It is not ascertained at what time Mr. Leavens was first chosen; but it appears that he represented the town in 1822, '23, 32 and '39.—Somewhere between 1811 and 1826 Dea. Jotham Cummings was chosen; 1826 and '30 we were not represented. Jotham Cummings, Jr., 1828; Charles Cummings, 1834; Shubael Farr, 1835, '36; William Colby, 1837; John Bartlett, 1840; Cyrus Hemenway, 1841, '42; not ascertained, 1843; Zenas Bartlett, 1844, '45; Simeon Allbee,* 1846, '47, '48 and '61; Marson Leavens, 1849 and '50; Samuel Dagget, 1851, '52; Nathan Orcott, 1853, '54; Samuel Lord, 1855; Jarvis Bartlett, 1856, '57; Samuel Lord, 1858; John C. Moore, 1859, '60; Oliver Warren, 1862, '63; Byram Bartlett, 1861, '66; Josiah Hamblett, 1865; John Morse, 1867, '68.
MILITARY.
There is nothing to show when the first company of militia was organized. In its first organization it was composed of such as were liable to bear arms in this town and Holland. — Afterwards it was divided, and a company organized in each town, Calvin Wilcox was the first captain who commanded the company in this town; after him Ira Leavens, Ruel Cobb, Geo. L. Varnum, Siloame Tone and John Hatch.
The only higher military officer who has had his residence here was Major Rufus Stewart, who removed from Derby and settled here some time previous to 1812.
It is not known that any soldiers of the old French and Indian war ever settled in Morgan; but Wm. Hamblett, Samuel Elliot, Christopher Bartlett and Nathaniel S. Clark, have had their residence here—all of whom were soldiers of the Revolutionary War, and pensioners.
The wife of Mr. Elliot is still living at an advanced age, and draws a pension.
In the war of 1812, Ephraim Stiles and John Bishop, citizens of this town, were drafted to guard the frontier. Ruel Cobb, also, was drafted from Derby, and after the war settled here. Major Rufus Stewart, of the militia, received a captain's commission, and entered the regular service. Names of those who enlisted under him from this town are as follows: William Harvey, Samuel Killam, Enos Bishop, Erastus Hatch, John Hedge, James H. Varnum, Silas Wilcox.
1861.
The following are the names of the soldiers that went from this town and entered the United States' service in the war of the Rebellion:—
Baxter Humphrey, Co. I, 6th reg., for one y'r.
Jason Paul, " 8th reg., "
Amos Batchelder, Co. E, 15th reg.; son of Mr. John and Mrs. Mary Batchelder; died of a fever, in Virginia; his remains brought home and interred with military honors; he was aged 26 years and 4 months.
George Persons, Co, D, 3d Reg.
Siloame S. Persons, " "
George Brownwell, " "
Henry C. Hill, " " son of Shadrick and Maria Hill, aged 16, wounded at Lee's Mills, died April 18, 1862.
David F. Elliot, Co. D, 3d Reg.
Wright Elliot, " " son of Sam'l and Elmira Elliot; died July 18, 1863.
Simeon Marsh, Co. E, 15th Reg.
William H. Elliot, Co. F, 11th Reg.
John W. H. Evans, Co. K, 10th Reg.; (foreign parents, deceased and not known here); died Oct. 16, 1862.
E. Gilbert Calkins, Co. H, 2d U. S. S. Shooters.
Lyman P. Brooks, Co. F, 11th Reg.
Charles R Brooks, " " son of Horace and Sarah Brooks, ( father deceased); died Oct. 1st, '65, in reb. hos., S. C., aged 23.
Curtis Cobb, Co. D, 3d Reg.; son of Wm. and Nancy Cobb; killed in the battle of the Wilderness.
Emerson D. Cowing, Co. B, 8th Reg.
Charles S. Barret, " "
Wm. Barret, Jr., Co. F, 11th Reg.
Wm. H. Smith Co. E, 15th Reg.
Samuel Townsend, Co. F, 11th Reg.
Joel Williams, " "
Elias Blake, Co. H, 2d U.S.S. Shooters.
William Parker, " " "
Alfred J. Black, " 10th Reg.
Erastus M. Dunbar, Co. E, 15th and Co. G, 17th Regts.; son of Stillman and Eliza S. Dunbar, N. Bridgewater; killed in the battle of the Wilderness, May 6, 1864.
E. C. Burroughs, Co. H, 2d U.S.S. Shooters.
Cyrus B. Bagley, }
Ezekiel Bowles, | No returns.
Elijah Allbee, Jr., }
Lewis Bryant, Co. L, 11th Reg.
Augustus Lyon.
Martin J.P. Jennes, Co. D, 3d Reg.
Daniel G. Brooks, Co. F, 11th Reg.
Albro Brown, " " son of Calvin and Betsey Brown; died at home with a wound.
Isaac H. Clough, Co. D, 3 Reg.; died Dec. 7, 1862.
John R. Dawson, Co. B, 8th Reg.
David Morse, Jr., Co. F, 11th Reg.
Nixon Morse, Co. D, 3d Reg., afterward Co. F, 11th Reg.
Willard Morse, Co. F, 11th Reg.; son of David and Mary Morse; died in prison at Andersonville.
E. G. I. Varnum, } Co. F, 11th Reg.; sons of
Geo. C. Varnum, } Geo. L. & Hannah Varnum; died in prison at Andersonville.
Orren T. Bartlett, Co. F, 11th Reg.
———
* Simeon Allbee was associate judge in 1862, '63.
MORGAN. 287
Matthew Whitehill, Co. E, 15th Reg
Moses Whitehill, " " son of widow Betsey Whitehill; killed at the battle of Wilderness.
Clement D. Gray, vol. for one year.
Benj. Cargill, Co. D, 2d Reg.; son of Charles and Eunice Cargill; died in Lincoln Hospital; aged 20.
The bounties paid by the town to the soldiers who enlisted the latter part of the war ranged from $25 to $500.
In the early part of the war a Female Society was organized for the benefit of the sick and wounded soldiers. A number of boxes of socks, drawers, shirts, bandages, pillows, sheets, quilts, puffs and various other articles of bedding and clothing were sent by them to the hospitals.
Several collections have been taken up for the aid society.
The oldest man who has died in town was Samuel Elliot, aged 93 years.
The oldest woman is not ascertained.
The following list will show the names of those who have died in town, so far as found on record and remembered, whose ages will range from 80 to 89 years:
MEN—Benj. Varnum, Nathan Wilcox, Mr. — Taylor, Nathaniel S. Clark, Jos. Mansur, Cutter Blowd, Joseph Burbee.
WOMEN—Molly Varnum, Sarah Cobb, Mrs — Taylor, Rachel Wilcox, Elizabeth Cummings, Abiah Mansur, Anna Burbee, Phalla Levens.
The oldest man now living* is Mr. Hopper, an Englishman, from C. E. He does not know his exact age, but he calls himself between 90 and 100 years. The oldest woman is Mrs. Achsah Elliot, widow of Sam'l Elliot, and a pensioner, as before mentioned. She is now in the 90th year of her age. She has had 13 children, and all are living but one; the oldest, 72 years, and the youngest between 40 and 50. She has 80 grandchildren and more than 40 great-grandchildren.
The first school in town was kept by a man by the name of Flint Foster. (Date not remembered.)
In the month of March, 1811, the town was divided into two school districts. Since that time it has been sub divided into seven and in all, excepting one, there is a decent and comfortable school-house.
The first school-house was built in district No. 1, in that part of the town, formerly Brownington Gore, in 1827 or '28. Soon after one was built, in district No. 3, at the Four Corners, which answered the purpose of school, meeting and town-house. Within a few years past both of these houses have been taken down and better ones built in their places. In district No. 3, more than forty years ago, Miss Roxany Sweetland, taught school in a barn owned by Mr. Samuel Bartlett, and received in compensation, for her 12 weeks service, $5 in cash and $5 worth of grain.
The average amount of schooling per year, for a number of years past, has been 6 months, or nearly that. Besides we have 3 months select school in the Fall season.
RELIGION.
Previous to the organization of any church in town, there was some religious interest. Mr. Wilcox (the first settler) was not a professor when he came to town. Though he kept up a religious form in his family, he did not date his Christian experience till some time after. Mr. C. Bartlett was a professor of religion when he came. In 1806, these two families united with some of their neighbors in Holland, in setting up religious meetings on the Sabbath, and from that time to the present (as a general rule) meetings have been sustained here regularly on the Sabbath, when they have had no preaching, as well as when they had. Thus God in his Providence prepared the way in these two individuals for building up his church, in what was then but a waste wilderness. In the course of the same year (1806) they were visited by a missionary by the name of Jeremiah Hallock, from Simsbury, Ct. As it cannot be ascertained that there was any preacher in town before him, it is very probable that to him belongs the honor of preaching the first sermon. Previous to the organization of the church here, most of the professors of religion with some who had here obtained a hope in Christ, united with the Congregational church in Derby, then under the pastoral care of the Rev. Mr. Leland (soon after deceased.)
THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH
here was organized June 4, 1823, under the superintendence of Rev. David Williston, missionary from the Hampshire Missionary Society, and Rev. Lyman Case, then pastor of the church in Coventry. At the time of
———
*Since deceased, and Benjamin Demick, aged 89, is now the oldest man.
288 VERMONT HISTORICAL MAGAZINE.
its organization, the church consisted of 11 members,—they were:
Jotham Cummings and Elizabeth, his wife, Christopher Bartlett and Anna his wife, Israel E. Cheney and Sarah his wife, Nathan Wilcox, Joseph Dickey, Deborah Wilcox, Artimicia Bartlett and Nancy Cobb.
From that time up to 1826, by profession and letter, had been added Thankful Wilcox, Lydia Wilcox, Polly Varnum, Rachel Wilcox, Rebecca Bartlett, Jarvis Bartlett, Eliza Hatch, Polly Bartlett.
At the organization of the church, Rev. Mr. Case was chosen moderator, and Mr. Jotham Cummings to fill the office of deacon and clerk.
In the month of July 1826, Jacob S. Clark, a licentiate of the Coos Association, N. H. (now Caledonia) visited this town as a candidate for settlement. On the following October he received a call from the church and society, to settle as their pastor. In the month of November, he removed here with his family from North Haverhill, N. H. Jan. 11, 1827, he was ordained and installed as pastor of the little church. There not being a school-house or any other public building in town, they held their meetings in different neighborhoods, occupying barns in the Summer and private dwellings in the Winter.
For the first 2 years after the settlement of the pastor, but one was added to the church and that by letter. In the Fall of 1829, a revival commenced and continued, with much interest, the remainder of the Fall and Winter. During the year 1830, the fruits of that revival, were 27 added to the church. In the summer and Fall of 1831, we had another very interesting revival, rapid in its progress and attended with much power. In the course of that year 13 more were added. From that time up to 1840, there were added 19 at various times, mostly by profession. In the Spring of 1840 and the Fall of 1842, we had other seasons of refreshing, as the result of which 33 were gathered into the church. At different times since, 20 others have been added making the whole number of all that have ever belonged to this church 132.
From various causes, such as deaths, emigrations and the organization of other sister churches in neighboring towns, where some of our members resided, this church has been reduced, so that the present number of resident members is but 26,
In March 1864, the pastor felt it his duty, on account of his age and infirmities to withdraw from active service. On the following July, Rev. A. R. Cray, of Coventry, was employed and has since supplied the desk as acting pastor every alternate Sabbath.*
The persons here named have been chosen and served as deacons in this church: Jotham Cummings, deceased; Nathan Wilcox, deceased; Christopher Bartlett, deceased; Charles Cumings, removed to W. Charleston; William Colby, deceased; William Little, present.
THE METHODIST CHURCH.
The first M. E. class in this town was organized February, 1830. Nath'l G. Ladd, M. D. was the first class-leader. The preachers under whose superintendence the class was organized, were a Mr. —— Blaisdell and —— Campbell. As no reliable records are within our reach, we have to depend wholly upon memory in giving the names of the M. E. clergy that have officiated here. The following list contains the names, so far as can be recollected of all or nearly all the ministers that have been sent by the conference at different times, to take charge of this branch of their church:
Revs. —— Cutler, John S. Smith, E. Scott, —— Warner, —— Crosby, —— Naason, —— Spague, —— Huston, Jonas Scott, —— Wiggins, —— Kimball, David Packer, Putnam Ray, —— Norris, Dyer Willis, —— Colburn, Moses Pattee, Joseph Enright, Almer Howard, E. D. Hopkins, P. N. Granger, C. D. Ingraham, J. S. Speeney.
There is no one now living in town that was a member of the class at its first formation. This church has increased in numbers and influence, and at the time of the writing of this sketch, is believed to be in a prosperous state.
We have but one house of worship in town a small building, originally 28 feet by 36. It was first built by the Methodist society in the Fall and Winter of 1842, '43. Afterwards one half of the shares were sold to the Congregational church and society and it was turned into a union house. In 1866, it was enlarged and the inside remodeled, so that now it is a convenient building for the congregation that usually assemble in it.
SABBATH SCHOOL.
Previous to the settlement of the pastor, the youth assembled in connection with the
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* Since deceased.
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reading meetings on the Sabbath, to recite portions of scripture; but it does not appear that there was then any regular organization. For several years after the settlement of the pastor, biblical instruction was conducted in the same manner. In the month of April 1838, the Congregational church resolved itself into a Sabbath school society for the transaction of business, relative to biblical instruction.
Besides the Sabbath school that meets with the worshiping congregation on the Sabbath, there are two others in town, regularly organized with superintendents and teachers.
The number of books in the libraries of these three Sunday-schools, as recently reported, may safely be estimated at from 500 to 600.
The first temperance society was organized in 1836, and sustained for a while, with considerable interest. But losing its organization, another was formed in 1844. In the Fall of 1854, a lodge of Good Templars was chartered which has been productive of good to the cause of temperance.
STATE PRISON CONVICTS.
A man by the name of Shillinglaw, removed from Barnet to this town and commenced a settlement in the eastern section, near what is called Morgan Plain. Having passed a suspicious looking bill, search was made about his house and premises and at last considerable of an amount of spurious bank notes was found deposited in his bible. He was convicted to serve a term of years at Windsor. The State prison records will probably show more of the character of this man and his family in after life.
A young man of considerable promise by the name of Truman Nicols, went from this town to engage in some kind of business in Canada. Falling into bad company, he was enticed to try his fortune in circulating counterfeit currency. He took a quantity of it and repaired to Concord, N. H., where he expected to meet a brother and with him go to some of the Western States. Offering to pass a small bill, he was arrested, searched, and condemned to the States prison. His health failing, toward the latter part of his term, he was pardoned and brought home to his parents in Morgan, where he lingered for a while and died, it is believed, a true penitent.
A citizen by the name of David Hamblett set up the first and the last tavern ever kept in town. He took a situation at the Four Corners, obtained license, and continued about one year, when he abandoned it and left.
The first saw-mill was built by Calvin Wilcox.* A grist-mill, afterwards, was built by Maj. Rufus Stewart; but, not having sufficient water-power to make it profitable, it was taken down by his successor, Clark Morse, and the frame-work and other lumber of which it was built, purchased by Nathan Wilcox, Esq., and turned into a dwelling-house, which is still occupied by John M. Wilcox.
There are now two saw-mills in town, on small streams, which can do business only a part of the year. There is no place in town that can properly be called a village, or ville; but the principal place of business is the Four Corners, where there are 2 stores, a harness-shop, a shoemaker, a blacksmith's shop, a picture-saloon, and a joiner's shop.
At the present time, 9 families reside within the compass of one half mile.
In 1842, '43, the erysipelas prevailed, throughout the town, to an alarming extent. Several of our principal church members, and some of our most valuable citizens, were victims of this fearful epidemic. The bill of mortality for about 6 months, in proportion to the number of inhabitants, was almost unparalleled. Besides this, diphtheria, scarlet fever, or canker-rash, and typhoid fever have prevailed at different times.
The principal crops raised by the farmers are wheat, barley, oats, corn, India wheat, and potatoes. To these several kinds of produce, the soil is well adapted. A good proportion of the land is excellent for grazing, and the stock, such as cows, oxen, horses and sheep, raised here, will average with that of most other towns in this part of the State. The different kinds of grain, potatoes, butter, and maple sugar, are the principal articles of commerce.
The wild animals here are the same as are found in most other towns in the northern part of the State. The smaller kind, valued and sought for their furs, such as sable, otter, muskrat and mink, were never known to be numerous. Some of the two last named, however, are found and taken even now. Foxes still abound, in many instances, to the great annoyance of the poultry. Within the past year no less than 44 have been taken in one section of the town, by two enterprising
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* Deceased, Feb. 10, 1869.
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hunters, Messrs. Bigelow and Wilson, by means of their traps and hounds.* The lynx has been occasionally seen.
Among the larger animals known to have been found here, are the deer, moose, bear, and wolf. As late as 1827 and '28, the deer were frequently hunted and taken. In the latter part of the Summer, or early in the Fall, of 1827, a moose was seen leaving a cornfield, on the farm then owned by William Colby, and plunging into the lake. Some of the neighbors immediately took their boat and guns, pursued and shot her before she reached the opposite shore.
As a token of the hearty good will which is always felt by the inhabitants of newly and sparsely settled places, each family in tho neighborhood was served with a fine steak of moose-beef.
For many years after the settlement of the town, the bears and wolves continued to infest the place, and were often very annoying to the inhabitants, and destructive to their flocks. But the people, in those days, were not "afraid of the bears," and the killing of a bear was not an event of uncommon occurrence. They were often seen roaming about the lake. An instance of an encounter with one is related by an actor in the scene. Mr. Christopher Bartlett's youngest son, Byram, saw a bear swimming in the lake. He immediately ran and told his father and brother Jarvis, who were at work some distance off.
They seized their gun, repaired to their boat, and launched off in pursuit. As soon as they came within a proper distance, Jarvis discharged the gun at his head, which at once sank under the water. Supposing that the shot had been effectual, they brought their boat up to his side, and drew him into it. But they soon found that he was only stunned by the shock, and not materially injured; the ball having passed through both ears, and just grazed the top of his head. Soon he began to show signs of life.
They felt for their jack-knives, but they were left in the pockets of their vests, where they had been at work. They took no ammunition with them, and so were left with only two light cedar paddles, with which they managed the boat. Whenever their shaggy passenger attempted to rise, they would rap him on the head with one of their paddles, as if to say "Lie still, bruin." Having turned their boat, they made for the shore.
As soon as they struck the land, his bearship, thinking, no doubt, that it would be a good time to make his escape, raised himself upon "all fours," ready for a race. But he mistook in his reckoning. The lad, Byram, had just arrived with an ax, which he handed to his brother, and one well-directed blow upon the head, with the poll of the ax, ended the drama.
In the Fall of 1838, the wolves were making ravages among the sheep, in the neighborhood of Elon hill. On a certain night, their howling was heard by some of the inhabitants from the top of the hill. Having thus ascertained their locality, no time was lost in. communicating the intelligence throughout this and the adjacent towns. The next morning, nearly 200 people were entering the woods that surrounded the hill. At a certain point on the shore of the lake, there is a narrow plat of land, something in the form of a heater, hemmed in by an almost perpendicular cliff, rising from the water's edge to a considerable height. To this point it was designed to drive the wolves, and close up the circle. In the latter part of the day, the report of their fire-arms told that they had accomplished their design. Soon the boys were seen rushing from the thicket, bearing the trophies of their day's sport.
On that day this gang of marauders was lessened by three.
It being known that some had escaped, and thinking it probable that they would return in search of their companions, a watch was kept up that night. At a late hour, the howling was again heard in the same place. Messengers were immediately sent out, in all directions, where they found all ready and eager to join in pursuit of the common enemy.
"Each vale, and each sequestered glen,
Mustered its little band of men,—
From the grey sire, whose trembling hand
Could scarcely buckle on his brand,
To the raw boy, whose shaft and bow
Were yet scarce terror to the crow."
At an early hour in the morning, 300 men and boys were seen entering the forest, at different points, and before night three more of the sheep-stealers were put beyond the power of further mischief. Not long after, from the sale of the skins and the government bounty, each man and boy who engaged in
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* Ten more may be added to the credit of M. Leavens.
MORGAN. 291
the enterprise found himself a little more than a half dollar richer for his two day's adventure.
Some of the early settlers were noted, as being remarkably hardy and persevering.—As an illustration of this, an anecdote is related of Enos Bishop. He was said to be but a small man, but firmly built. On one morning, in the month of March, he took a large pack on his shoulder, containing most or all of his movables, on the top of which was lashed a heavy six-pail iron kettle; and, thus equipped, he started, on snow-shoes, from Brunswick on Connecticut River, through a trackless wilderness, and reached his destination in Morgan (a distance of 28 miles) before sunset.
NATHAN WILCOX,
the first settler in town, as before mentioned, was born in Killingsworth, Ct., Nov. 16, 1757. At an early age, he married Rachel Bennet, of East Hampton, Long Island, born July 7, 1756. While yet in the State of steady habits, he united with the church, on the old halfway covenant, in order that his children might receive the ordinance of baptism. Though not then a professor of experimental religion, he maintained its outward form in his family. When about 44 years of age, he removed from his native place to Morgan.
So far as is known, he always sustained a good moral character. Though his education was limited, he possessed good common sense and sound judgment. By means of his honesty and integrity in his intercourse with his fellow men, he secured the respect and confidence of all who procured his acquaintance.
He was one of the first justices in town, held the office for a number of years, and, for aught that appears, honorably discharged its functions.
But the most prominent trait in his character, was his religion. Ever after he made a public profession, he was eminently pious. In the family, in the church, and in the world, he honored his profession by a lively Christian example. He was emphatically a man of prayer. Prayer was an exercise in which he delighted, and in which he excelled. Such were his walk and conversation before the world, that even opposers and faultfinders were constrained to acknowledge that his religion was a reality. "O, I would gladly embrace religion, if I were sure that I could be such a Christian as Father Wilcox," was the remark of an enquiring sinner. Nor did his piety lead him to neglect the ordinary duties of the present life. While he was gent in "business," he was "fervent in spirit, serving the Lord."
In his last sickness, which was long, and exceedingly painful, he manifested that patience and resignation which is only found in the sincere Christian. When he had become unconscious of almost every thing else, he still recognized Jesus as his "All in All."
He died, June 21, 1840, in the 84th year of his age.
CHRISTOPHER BARTLETT
was born in Stafford, Ct., Feb. 26, 1767. He married Anna Buck, of Somers, Ct., born Aug. 4, 1765. In 1805, he removed to this town, and made his pitch upon a lot of land at the head of the lake, now owned by Samuel Twombly.
By the help of his boys, he subdued the forest, and soon made a valuable farm. He was strictly an honest man, and a devoted Christian. Upright in all his dealings with others, he expected the same from them.
He was a strict observer of the Sabbath, and all religions duties. If he had some eccentricities, they did not essentially affect his moral and religious character. If he was more exacting in regard to his requirements of others, than was thought to be necessary, he was yet conscientious and sincere. If in any thing he was found in the wrong, none was ever more ready to give satisfaction, as soon as convinced of his error.
For a number of his last years, he lived a widower,—his wife having deceased in the Summer of 1835. In the Fall of 1842, he seemed to have a presentiment of his death.
A friend having suggested to him the propriety of having one of his sons come home and relieve him from the care and burden of carrying on his farm, he remarked that there would be a change in his affairs before another Spring. Shortly after, he was taken with the erysipelas, and died, Dec. 27, 1842.
IRA LEAVENS
was born at Windsor, Vt., Feb. 28, 1779. He married Phalla Cobb, born at Hartland, Jan. 13, 1783. After his marriage, he settled for a while in Montgomery, and from thence removed with his wife and one child (a son) to Morgan, in 1809. He settled in that part of Morgan, formerly Brownington Gore.
Being a good farmer, persevering, indus‑
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trious, economical, and calculating, he soon placed himself and family above want. As a neighbor, he was kind and accommodating; as a citizen and townsman, his influence was soon felt. In the business of the town, he largely participated; and was frequently chosen to till some of the most important offices.
At one time he was captain of the militia company; and served, as town clerk, 22 consecutive years; and represented the town in several sessions of the State Legislature.
To the good order of society he was a friend, and although not a professor of religion, a constant contributor for the support of the Gospel. Though naturally of a firm constitution, he was suddenly attacked with erysipelas. and after a short sickness died. Jan. 18, 1843, aged nearly 64 years. By the town at large, the loss was severely felt.
His widow survived him till July 17, 1866, when she also died in her 84th year. His only son Marson, and his second son, Moses, still occupy the homestead.
JOTHAM CUMMINGS.
was born in Rumney, N. H. Nov. 6, 1766; he married Elizabeth Senter, born in Marlow, N. H. 1768. For a number of years after his marriage he resided in Plymouth, N. H. In 1811, he came to Morgan, bringing with him a family of two sons and four daughters. He was a man of rare talents and sterling piety.
Previous to coming here he was deacon of the Congregational church in Plymouth. In the Derby church, with which he united, he retained the office, and when the church here was organized, he was chosen as their first deacon.
By close application, in his younger days, he obtained a good common school education and of some of the higher branches of mathematics he had acquired considerable knowledge. Thus he was well qualified for the transaction of any business to which he might be called in a community like this.
Being a practical surveyor, a good farmer, and a thorough mechanic, he found no difficulty, with close economy, in providing for his family the neccessaries of life.
By the proprietors of land, both in this and the adjacent towns, he was frequently employed as agent to look after and dispose of their lands, and the integrity and fidelity with which he performed the business committed to him, secured the confidence and respect of his employers and marked him as a man worthy to be trusted.
In the business of the town he took a prominent part, and always manifested a deep interest in all its affairs. When chosen to represent the town in the legislature, he sustained the position with honor.
For several years, he held the office of justice of the peace and, so far as is known, ably discharged its duties. On account of his business qualifications, he was often called upon to execute deeds, bonds, leases, contracts and other writings of various kinds, in all of which he was thought to excel.
As a member and officer of the church, he was always found in his place. To him, as an instrument under God, the church, to some extent, owed its existence. In the settlement of the pastor he was prompt and active. He took the lead in devising means for his support, contributed largely himself, and to the end of his life, continued to be one of his firmest friends. As a counselor he was judicious and safe. Few, if any, who sought and followed his advice in difficult circumstances, ever had reason to regret it. Though a man of but few words, whatever he said on any subject was to the point, He was uniform and consistent in his Christian walk—in his deportment quiet—in his pretensions unassuming. Being "ready to every good work" he took a peculiar interest in all the benevolent enterprises of the day. Towards the latter part of his life his health failed so as to disable him for the harder part of farm labor. Accustomed to habits of industry, he turned his attention to the lighter business of his trade.
With his work-bench in his long kitchen, he manufactured measures and boxes of different descriptions and other articles convenient for family use. For these he found a ready sale the avails of which contributed much toward supplying the wants of his family. In many families throughout this County, and also in other places, specimens of his workmanship may still be seen.
Having well "served his generation" he suddenly departed from this, as we trust, to a better world. On the evening of Oct. 15, 1833, he was taken with a violent headache and died at the early dawn of the 16th, aged 67 years,
His wife, Elizabeth, lived till she was about 84 years old, when she received an injury
NEWPORT. 293
by a fall, from which she never recovered. She died Apr. 12, 1851.
The population of the town in 1810 was 116; 1820, 135; 1830, 331; 1840, 420; 1850, 486; 1860, 548; 1870, 615.
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NEWPORT.
BY D. H. SIMONDS, ESQ.
The town of Newport is very irregular in its outline, having Canada on the N., Lake Memphremagog, Coventry and Irasburgh on the E., Irasburgh and Lowell on the S., and
Troy on the W. Its greatest length, from north to south, is nearly 12 miles, and its width is from 2 to 7 miles. It extends along the shore of Lake Memphremagog 7 miles,—the lake separating it from Derby. A part of the town, including the present village of Newport, formally belonged to the town of Salem, and was set off from the latter town about the year 1818.
The soil of the town is mostly a gravelly loam, yet clay abounds in some parts, while the point upon which the village is situated is sandy—the surface of the country is hilly, but most of it is fit for cultivation, and, with proper tillage, affords very good crops Prospect hill, near the village, affords a fine view of the lake and the surrounding country. The prevailing rock is limestone, yet slate ledges are common, and veins of quartz abound in some places.
Some of the quartz is gold-bearing and some good specimens have been obtained, though no attempt has been made to test its value for mining purposes. Copper veins are plenty and would no doubt pay for working. Splendid specimens of argentiferous galena have been obtained in the north part of the town. The ore is rich, containing by analysis 23 per cent of silver. The existence of this mineral was known to the Indians, who were accustomed to melt it and run into bullets for their rifles. An effort is being made to develop this mine, and if the ore is found in large quantities, it will pay richly for working. The timber is the usual variety of this latitude, hard wood interspersed with hemlock ridges. The sandy land where the village now stands was originally covered with a beautiful growth of large pine trees. These were cut down by the first settlers, and many of them burned up as of no value.
LAKE MEMPHREMAGOG,
without a sketch of which a history of Newport would hardly be complete. This beautiful lake is 30 miles long and 1 to 4 wide. Two thirds of it lies in Canada, the remainder between the towns of Newport and Derby, and Coventry and Salem. This lake was a famous fishing ground for the Indians, abounding in salmon trout and masca lunge. The woods on its banks swarmed with the moose, deer and bear besides the smaller animals. Fur-bearing animals, especially the sable, were plenty.
With the approach of civilization the game has nearly all disappeared and the pickerel has driven the trout from the lake, although the masca lunge is still taken in large quantities.
The lake afforded the Indians a mode of easy communication, between Canada and the colonies, during the French and Indian wars. From the St. Lawrence they would come up the St. Francis and Magog rivers in their canoes, through the lake and up Clyde river to Island Pond. Thence it is only 15 miles through the woods to the Connecticut, which was almost the only portage on the route. Frequent war parties passed to and fro over this route, and very often captives and prisoners were taken to Canada. During the old French war, Stark who commanded our forces at the battle of Bennington, was taken prisoner, and afterwards published a map of the country through which he passed. On that map Memphremagog is called by a different and even mere outlandish name, but I cannot now recall it.
EARLY SETTLEMENT.
Although the town was not chartered until the year 1803, yet the first house was built in 1793, by Dea. Martin Adams, on the place now owned by Alfred Himes. Mr. Adams came to Newport from St. Johnsbury. He was soon joined by others, so that in 1800 there were, in town, eleven families, viz. John Prouty, Nathaniel Doggett, Abel Parkhurst, Amos Sawyer, Luther Chapin, James C. Adams, Abraham Horton, Nathaniel Horton, Simon Carpenter, Enos Bartlett and Joseph Page, Martin Adams having, in the meantime, removed to Stanstead, where he resided a few years and then returned to Newport.
It is said that these settlers came down the river from Barton, and were induced to locate on the banks of the lake from the fact that