Soon after this township was granted, difficulties began to arise between the settlers and the several grantees, respecting the quantity of land to which they were entitled. Settlers' meetings were holden, and committees chosen; there were proprietors' meetings and conferences; but, seemingly, all to no purpose. Finally, the matter was referred to the assembly. Commissioners were appointed, the grounds of difference investigated, and a report made. The result of these investigations and deliberations was, that the general assembly decided in issuing, and did accordingly issue, a new or “quieting charter” to the proprietors, November 12, 1802. 

   The first survey of the township was made by Eben Thompson, who came here as early as 1787, and was one of the first who settled in the northern part of the town. Joshua Stevens sometime after made a re-survey, altering the former lines in certain cases, clipping certain lots, and adding to others. His survey was considered the nearest correct, and the lines as established by him were adhered to in all later transactions. Considerable additions to the original area of the township have been made however. The first was made on October 29, 1792, when Walden Gore, containing 2,828 acres, and situated in the western part of the town, was annexed. The next addition was the annexation of a part of Dewysburgh, a tract of 5,310 acres. This lay between Danville and Peacham, and from its shape, was called "The Boot." It was chartered to Elijah Dewey and associates, February 28, 1782, was subsequently organized as a township, and was represented in the general assembly four years.  In November, 1810, it was divided by the legislature and a part annexed to Peacham and a part to Danville, thus increasing the township to its present large area of 33,483 acres.  On November 5, 1792, Caledonia county was incorporated and Danville was subsequently settled as its shire town. This honor it enjoyed till 1855, when St. Johnsbury became the county seat. During this period the town received one other mark of distinction, viz.: In 1805 the general assembly convened here, the House meeting in the old court-house and the Council in the hall of the hotel. The court-house then stood on the west side of the green, nearly opposite the bank. 

   The surface of Danville is rough and mountainous, though the town is well watered and, timbered, and not surpassed in the northern part of the state for the depth and richness of its soil and the abundance and variety of its productions. The eastern part of the town is elevated about 200 feet above the Connecticut, and thence rises to about 800 feet in the western part. It is watered by numerous streams of pure water, which rise in the higher lands of Wheelock, Walden and Cabot. Joe's pond lies mostly in the western part of the township and covers about 1,000 acres.   It discharges its waters into the Passumpsic by Merritt's river, or Joe's brook. At its outlet a large, never failing sheet of water falls seventy-five feet over a limestone ledge. In the northern part of the town are Sleeper's brook and North brook. 

    In 1880, Danville had a population Of 2,003 souls. In 1886 the town had nineteen school districts and nineteen common schools, employing twenty-three female teachers, to whom was paid an average weekly salary, including board, of $4.65. There were 462 scholars, twenty-seven of whom attended private schools. The entire income for school purposes was $3,010.83, while the total expenditures were $2,970.61, with T.W. Darling, superintendent. 

    Danville, a post village, universally known as "Danville Green," is the principal center of business in the township. When the location of the court-house and county buildings was the ruling theme in the newly organized county of Caledonia, Danville having been selected as the site, two men, the Messrs.Hartshorn, offered to give a site for the buildings if they would be located upon their land. Accordingly, the committee chose the beautiful and sightly spot where the village now stands, and deeds were passed conveying the land which comprised the  “Green” and the sites of many of the surrounding buildings, “for so long as the county buildings were, continued thereon.” A village had begun to grow about a mile to the east, but it was rapidly abandoned and the new one more rapidly built up about the court-house, continuing to increase until the removal of the courts to St. Johnsbury. The old courthouse is now occupied as a town hall. Five streets radiating from the “Green” are bordered upon each side by the dwellings and places of business of the citizens. The Congregational and Methodist societies have church edifices here. Caledonia National bank, with a capital of $100,000.00 accommodates the public financially, while the Elm House furnishes entertainment for transient travelers and summer boarders. Situated 2,500 feet above sea level and 900 feet above St. Johnsbury, its broad views and pure air draw hither many seekers after rest. Danville station, on the Vermont division of the B. & L. R. R., is less than one-fourth of a mile from the “Green.”  The North Star, a local weekly paper, is published here. 

    North Danville (p. o.) contains a Baptist church, store, grist-mill saw- mill, several shops, and about twenty dwellings. It is situated about five miles northeast of the “Green,” and two miles from the line of St. Johnsbury. George D. Gilman owns the oldest house at this village. It was built by General Chamberlain about 1787. 

    West Danville (p. o.) is the- name of a station on the B.& L. R.R. and a village about two and a half miles west of the “Green,” at the outlet of Joe's pond. A score of dwellings, a sash and blind manufactory, gristmill, saw-mill, and two stores constitute the remainder of the village. A hotel was formerly kept here, but being destroyed by fire has not been rebuilt, though Joe’s pond, widely celebrated as a fishing ground and pleasure resort, attracts numerous visitors, and there is no hotel within three miles of it. 

    South Danville (p. o.), though small, was a busy place until the destruction of Greenbank's woolen-mills, by fire, December 14, 1885. A general store and grist-mill now do business here, and the valuable waterpower will undoubtedly soon be improved for manufacturing. 

   The Caledonia National Bank was originally organized in 1826, as a state institution, with a capital of $50,000.  In May, 1865, it was re-chartered as a national bank, and its capital increased to $100,000. The first president of the institution was William Palmer, who served only six months, when he was succeeded by Augustine Clark.   Since then the succeeding presidents have been Samuel Sias, George V. Chandler, Ira Brainard, L. M. Delano, Orra Crosby, Bliss N. Davis, Samuel Ingalls and James W. Simpson, the present incumbent. As near as can be ascertained the first board of directors were as follows: William Palmer, Samuel Sias, Franklin Deming, Dr. Shedd and William Baxter. The present officers are as follows: James W. Simpson, president; James E. Mattocks, cashier, and James Crane, George B. Davis and John Farrington, directors. 

    Benjamin Greenbank's woolen-mill at South Danville, was originally built by Harrison Bolton, in 1845, and was purchased by Mr. Greenbank in 1849. He made large improvements on the structure in 1855, and again in 1875, so that he lately employed forty-five hands, had thirty-six broad looms, and manufactured about 700 yards of cloth per day. The mill was burned December 14, 1885, and Mr. Greenbank has removed to Enfield, N.H., where he is employed in business. 

    C. M. Gilbert's grist-mill, on road 71, was originally built in 1787. Mr. Gilbert purchased the mill in 1875, and grinds about 7,000 bushels of wheat per year. The mill has three runs of stones. 

    Amos C. Morse's machine and repair shop, on road 73, was established by William H. and S. H. Nutting, about 1847, and was purchased by Mr. Morse about 1863.

    L. W. Fisher's saw and grist-mill, on road 84, was built by Alvin Morrill and Oliver Morse about 1830.  In 1871  Mr. Fisher, in company with M. J. Morse, purchased the property, and in 1875 he became the sole owner. The grist-mill has three runs of stones and grinds about 15,000 bushels of grain per year, and the saw-mill cuts about 156,000 feet of lumber per annum. 

   The Danville woolen mill, John Spencer, proprietor, was built by C.C. Shattuck, in 1878.  It has fourteen broad looms, two sets of cards, and has the capacity for making 100 yards of cloth per day.  Mr. Spencer employs six hands. 

    D. C. Farrington's grist-mill, at West Danville, purchased by him in 1884, has four runs of stones. 

    George Merrill & Son's sash, blind and door factory, at West Danville, was built by Knight & Farrington, in 1870, for a blacksmith and repair shop, and was purchased by Mr. Merrill in 1871 and converted by him into its present use in 1872. They manufacture about $1,000 00 worth of goods per year and also do a general repair business. 

    S. N. Hubbell's saw-mill and butter-tub factory, on road 6, was re-built by him in 1870, and again in 1882. He manufactures 350,000 feet of lumber, 75,000 shingles and 4,000 butter-tubs per year, also doing matching and planing. 

    James B. Barron's grist-mill, located on the outlet of Joe's pond, at West Danville, is operated by five Buzzell turbine wheels, under twenty feet fall.  It is fitted with four runs of stones, does a merchant business, using from fifty to one hundred car-loads of corn per annum.  He also does custom grinding, and deals in flour. He has put in a side track from the railroad, which furnishes the best of facilities for unloading grain.

    B. Greenbank's saw-mill, on road 70, is operated by water-power, and does custom-work, cutting about 250,000 feet of rough and undressed lumber per annum. 

    Gardner J. Sanborn's wheelwright shop was purchased by him about 1872, and then contained a custom provender mill.   In 1886 he put in another run of stones for grinding corn and feed. 

    F. W.  Green's grist-mill, at North Danville, was purchased by him in 1875.  It has three runs of stones and grinds about 60,000 bushels of grain per year. 

    Asa Randalls threshing machine and repair shop at North Danville, was established by him, in company with his two brothers, in 1847. They manufactured fifty-one machines, but he now does mostly a repairing business. 

    Alice M. Wells's saw and planing-mill, at North Danville, cuts coarse timber, shingles, etc. 

    Of the early settlement of the town, we quote the following from one of the writers in Miss Heminway's  Historical Magazine.-- 

   The town was organized March 20, 1787, the meeting being held at the house of Daniel Wheeler, when the following list of officers was elected: Sargent Morrill moderator; Abraham Morrill; town clerk; Charles Sias, Israel Brainard and Jeremiah Morrill, selectmen; Daniel Wheeler, constable; Zebediah Parker, tythingman; Abner Morrill, Charles Sias, James Kiteridge and Joseph Magoon, surveyors of highways; Samuel Fuller, ____ Hayward and Timothy Batchelder, fence viewers. 

   The first birth was that of Danville Howard, in the summer of 1787. He only lived three years. The first marriage was that of Joseph Page to Abigail Morrill, December 25, 1788. The first store was opened by John Webber, in 1790. 

    During the war of 1812, Danville raised a company to serve six months, which was stationed near the Canada line. Joseph Morrill was the captain; John A. Stanton, lieutenant; Luther Bugbee, ensign; Harvey Kelsey, Luke Swett, Plummer Sawyer (who had already starved in the war of the Revolution), Samuel Langmaid, John Bickford, Peter Heath, William Heath, Asa Glines, Moses Varney, Jason Wilkins, Samuel Long, James Watson, Leavitt Daniels, Stutson West, Ephraim Hartshorn, Jerry Walker, Josh Otis, Noah Willey, privates; who were stationed at Portsmouth, N. H. At the expiration of the six months, Captain Morrill's company was discharged. He then raised a volunteer company of  “year's men,” who served till peace was declared. Solomon Langmaid served as a dragoon at the battle of Plattsburgh. Hiram Kelsey raised a company, but was not called out. During the winter of 1812, also, two companies of Kentucky dragoons, commanded by Captains Hall and Butler, were quartered here on account of abundance of forage and provisions. 

    During the years from 1861 to 1865, inclusive, Danville furnished, under the different calls of the President of the United States, 245 men, an excess of five men more than she was called on to furnish for her share. But, although she furnished that number under the several calls, she never had that number of different men in the field, for as the time of some expired they re-enlisted, others who had been discharged by reason of disease contracted in the service, recovering, re-enlisted, and each man that re-enlisted counted twice on the town's quota. During the draft, when $300.00 was considered equal to a man, eighteen were drafted, fourteen of whom paid their commutation, two furnished substitutes, and two entered the army. Taking from the whole number 245, those who re-enlisted and those who paid commutation under the draft, it leaves 194 different men who entered the service. Of this number nine entered the naval service. The whole number killed, or who died immediately after of wounds received in battle, were twelve. The whole number who died from disease were twenty-one, while two died, immediately after their discharge from disease contracted while in the service. The whole number who died from any cause was thirty-five, and thirty-five from one hundred and twenty-five shows the extent that the town suffered from the death of her men. The taxpayers of the town decided that all money appropriated for the war should be raised by immediate taxation, and thus when the war ceased the efforts and sacrifices of the town in that respect ceased, and there was no large debt left in the town to be carried along from year to year as a burden to its taxpayers. The first money appropriated was on the 13th of January, 1863, and the last on the 20th of February, 1865; and thus in a little over two years $36,000.00 was paid by the taxpayers of the town. 

   Timothy Ingalls, a native of England, came to America when ten years of age. He came to Danville, from Plymouth, N. H., at an early day, was the first clerk and one of the first deacons of the Congregational church, of which he was also chorister. He was a farmer and was also engaged in manufacturing chairs, plows, etc. Samuel, one of his five children, lived in town most of his life, was a dealer in furniture, which he also manufactured, was engaged in the lumber business at Littleton, N. H., and in trade in Canaan, N. H. He was justice of the peace for over thirty years, and was president of the Caledonia National bank. He died in this town, in 1853. Of his children, Charles, A. L., and Mrs. Harriet Batchelder reside in town, and Mrs. Mary A. Ferguson lives in Barnet. 

    Israel Brainerd came to Danville, from New Hampshire, at an early day, locating about one mile from the center of the town. He was a man of much ability, took an active interest in town affairs, and was one of the first deacons of the Congregational church. His son Asa, who came here at the age of ten years, was a farmer and butcher, and spent the remainder of his life here. He married twice, and reared seven children, of whom Ira, who now lives in Newbury, Vt., was president of the Caledonia National bank and was engaged in mercantile business for a number of years. Hiram lives in town; and Asa lives in Cleveland, O. Charles D. Brainerd was born in Danville, September 11, 1842, is a farmer, and was educated at Phillips academy. He served in the late war, was second lieutenant and first lieutenant of the 17th Vt. Vols., and was also captain of Co. F, of the same regiment. He has been lister, justice of the peace, was assistant judge of Caledonia county from December, 1880, to December, 1882, and was member of the Senate in 1882 and in 1884. 

   Timothy Harris, with his four sons and four daughters, came to Danville from Methuen, Mass., about 1787, and located about a mile southeast of Danville village. His children were as follows: Timothy, Abner, Philip, Enoch, all of whom married, were farmers, and lived in town the remainder of their lives. Hannah, who married Thomas Hoyt, Lydia, who married Dr. Uri Babbett, a Revolutionary soldier, Miriam, who married Mr. Sumner, and another daughter who died young. Albert, of St. Johnsbury, and William H., of this town, are sons of Enoch. The latter was born in 1813, has been colonel of militia, and was recruiting officer during the late war. He has also taken an active interest in town affairs has been selectman, justice of the peace, overseer of the poor, and was town representative in 1867-68. Three of his sons, Cyrus, Frank H., and Calvin J. B., served in the War of the Union. Cyrus was wounded in Wilson's raid, was taken prisoner, and died in prison. Frank H. was wounded at the battle of the Wilderness but recovered, and is now a hotel keeper in Lowell, Mass. Calvin J. B. is in Yankton, Dak., is a lawyer and real estate dealer, and is mayor of the city. Enoch is superintendent of the St. Johnsbury granite works. One daughter, Mrs. Nay, lives in town, and another daughter, Mrs. Lawrence, lives in Lowell, Mass.  Abner, son of Timothy, Jr. reared a family of nine children, three of whom now reside in town, viz.: Timothy V., Abner and Levi H. 

   Thomas Hoyt came to Danville from Canterbury, N. H. at an early day, was a farmer, and died here in 1850, aged eighty-eight years. Three of his nine children are living, two of whom, William A. and Mrs. Achsa Cook, live in Danville. 

   Dr. Uri Babbett came to Danville, from Hanover, N. H., at an early day, was a prominent physician, and practiced his profession over fifty years. He was a soldier in the Revolution, and a surgeon in the War of 1812. He married Lydia Harris, who bore him twelve children, only two of whom are now living, John W. and Samuel A., both of whom are physicians in Michigan. Dr. Babbett died December 5, 1844.

   Ephraim Hayward, or Howard, came to Danville, from Massachusetts, about 1779, and located about a mile from the village. He came in the month of March, and drew his two children on a hand-sled from Peacham. Of his family of seven children, one son, the first male child born in town, was named Danville, died in infancy, Betsey became the wife of William Haviland, and the rest moved west. 

   Jeremiah Kittredge came to Danville with his father, Samuel, from Tewksbury, Mass., about l785. Five of his nine children are living, of whom Uri B. lives in Danville, and Mrs. Maria D. Brown lives in Peacham. Mr. Kittredge died in 1857. 

   Edmond Pettengill came to Danville, from Methuen, about 1785, and settled on the farm where Frank Pettingill now lives. His sons Edmond and Moses also occupied the same farm. The latter reared ten children, seven of whom are living, and died in 1874. 

   Jonathan Danforth came to Danville, from Hollis, N.H., about 1790, settled on road 73, where A. G. Danforth now lives, and died in 1830. His sons, Luther, Ralph, Asa, Jonathan, David and Leonard, came with him to this town, but David, Luther and Asa moved to New York. Leonard located on the farm where his father first settled, and reared five sons and five daughters, of whom three sons and three daughters are living, viz.: Abert G., who resides on the homestead; Henry C., who lives on road 48; H. B., who lives in Taunton, Mass.; Louise, who became the wife of Col. William Harris; Florinda (Mrs. Alvin Bolton); and Betsey, who became Mrs. Gray. Leonard and his son Alwin served in the late war. 

   Amassa Badger moved to Barnet from Connecticut at an early day, and built the first saw-mill in that town. He afterwards removed to Danville, where he resided many years, and died in Greensborough, Orleans county. His son Enoch also resided here many years, and reared a family of ten children, only five of whom are living, all residing in town. 

   Enoch Badger was born in Danville, about 1781, and died here in 1863. His son Charles W. now reside on road 68, and in company with his two sons carries on a large farm. 

    John Winn, one of the early settlers of the town, came here from Londonderry, N. H., and located in the eastern part of the town. He was a shoe-maker by trade, and also a farmer. He reared eight children, one of whom, Sophia, became the wife of Nathan, son of Enoch Badger. 

    John Stearns came to Danville, from Winchester, N. H., and early settled here. He married Lydia Wheaton, of St. Johnsbury, who was supposed to have been the first white child born in that town. Mr. Steams died here in 1851, and his widow died in 1884, in her ninety-first year. Three of their seven children are living, viz.: William, in Plymouth, N. H., a daughter in Montgomery county, Tex., and Mrs. Dole, in this town. 

    Aaron Hartshorn came here from Danvers, N.H., as one of the first settlers, and located at Danville Green, where he cleared a farm. He and Dea. Thomas Dow gave the grounds for the county buildings at that place. He died in 1799. He reared a family of six or seven children, most of whom located in town. His son Charles C. P. was born in town, in 1799, has always resided here, and has been engaged in farming. His two children are Mrs. H. K. Morse and Benjamin D., who is at present the first selectman of the town. Susan Eaton, daughter of Aaron Hartshorn, lived to the age of 102 years. 

    Dr. Oliver Morse, one of the early settlers of Danville, resided in the eastern part of the town on the farm where J. Wesley Morse now lives, was a farmer and a physician, and practiced his profession for many years. He married twice and reared twenty-one children, a number of whom located in this vicinity. His son Oliver was born here about 1805, and resided in town till his death in 1875, when he was killed by the fall of a tree. Three of his seven children are now living, namely, Marshall J., Frank A. and Charles E.  One son, Alden W., died in 1885. He was engaged in trade here for a number of years. Dr. John H. Morse, son of Dr. Oliver, was born in town, was a farmer and a physician, and practiced medicine here many years. One son, Sereno, now resides in town.  Dea. Amos Morse, son of Oliver, was born in 1802, and has lived in town most of his life. He was a deacon of the Congregational church for many years, and now resides with his son Wallace L. 

    Josiah P. Taylor, a soldier of the War of 1812, was born in Danville, in 1795, lived at West Danville, was a miller and owned and run a saw and grist-mill at that place. He died in 1875. Of his family of ten children, seven are now living, two of whom reside in Washington county, Vt., and the others in this county. His son Edward, who resides in Danville, served in the late war and was taken prisoner. 

    James Stevens came to Danville, from New Hampshire, about 1785, settled in the northern part of the town, and reared five sons and four daughters, one of whom, Mrs. Lorinda Dickson, resides in Janesville, Wis. Stephen, son of James, was born in town, about 1798, and resided here till his death, about 1874, aged seventy-two years. He reared three sons and five daughters, of whom one son and three daughters are now living, and reside in this town, viz.: Mrs. Emily Morse, Mrs. Mary A. Hill, Mrs. Augusta Dole, and Lyman, who resides on road 34. 

    Moses Stevens was born in Great Falls, N. H., in 1804, and came to this town when fifteen years of age, and located at North Danville. He has been engaged in farming, and is a veterinary surgeon. He has taken an active interest in town affairs, has been lister, selectman, overseer of the poor, justice of the peace, etc. He married Lydia Swasey, and has had born to him seven children, three of whom are now living, namely, Moses A., of Kirby, Lydia F. and Charles L., of this town, The latter is engaged in farming and breeding fine horses. 

    Archelaus Sias, a native of Royalston, Vt., came to Danville, as an early settler, was a farmer and a local Methodist minister. He was clerk of the town forty years, justice of the peace many years, and died December 5, 1860. John, one of his seven children, resides in town, and has been justice of the peace several years. Samuel, a brother of Archelaus, was also a resident of this town, was president of the Caledonia National bank, assistant judge, etc. Solomon was a Methodist minister, and also edited Zion's Herald, in Boston. Jerry was a farmer, lived in the eastern part of the town, and died in Danville village. John, a farmer, also resided in town. 

    James M. Morrill, son of Abel, came to Danville, with his father, from Methuen, Mass., about 1800. He was one of the principal businessmen of the town, and was engaged for many years in carriage building, blacksmithing, lumber manufacturing, and operating a grist-mill. He and his brother Ebenezer owned and operated a stage line from Haverhill, N. H., to Stanstead, P. Q., using forty horses in the business. He died in 1864, aged seventy-eight years, and left four children, namely, Manning, of Lyndon, Edwin R., Catharine (Mrs. Gilson), of McIndoes Falls, Vt., and Susan, wife of French Morrill, of Danville. 

    George Green came about 1795, and settled in the southeastern part of the town, where he engaged in farming. He afterwards removed to Holland, where he died. His son Samuel W. was born in Danville, in 1804, and resided here till his death in 1880. Three of his children live here, namely, George I., Walter and Mrs. Laura A. French. 

    Edmund Green came to Danville, from Salem, Mass., some time previous to 1798, and cleared a farm in the northern part of the town, on the place now owned by Charles Shaw. He reared eight children, five of whom are living, viz.: Mrs. J. S. Stanton and F. W., of this town, Betsey, of Newport, Ahira, of Derby and Mrs. Cynthia Ayer, of St. Johnsbury. 

    Mitchell Davis came here from Tewksbury, Mass., about 1794 and settled at South Danville on the place where Henry Lowell now lives. He built a grist-mill at that place, which was burned while he was gone to Massachusetts after his family. He brought the nails and glass from Massachusetts, on horseback, and on his return rebuilt the mill. He afterwards moved to the farm where George B. Davis now lives. He took a prominent part in town affairs, was justice of the peace, and held several other offices. He reared one son and three daughters and died in 1817. His son, Salura, was born in Tewksbury in 1784, and was ten years of age when he came to Danville. He was one of the board of listers, who first prized the property of the town, served as town representative, was selectman several years, was also captain of a company of cavalry, and was familiarly known as Captain Davis. He married Abbie T., daughter of Col. Robert Johnston, of Newbury, a colonel in the war of the Revolution, and reared four sons and two daughters, as follows: Walter and George B., who reside in this town, Charles J., of  Chicago, James H., who is in Colorado, Myra J., a teacher in Darien, Conn., and Abbie R. who died in Chicago. George B. is largely engaged in farming, also deals in agricultural implements, and is one of the directors of the Caledonia National bank. 

    Bliss N. Davis was born at Vergennes, Vt., December 8, 1801, studied law with James Bell, of Walden, and was admitted to the bar at Danville. He commenced the practice of law at Hardwick, where he remained until 1850, when he removed to Danville, where he resided until his death, February 11, 1885. He represented Hardwick in the legislature, and was one of the senators from the county. He was president of the bank for a number of years, was states attorney, and took an active part in politics and temperance, and in all matters pertaining to the welfare of the town. He was a member of the Congregational church, married Eliza Bell, of Walden, and reared a family of five sons and three daughters. Of these, Dr. Albert A. and S. Edward live in New York, George A. is a dealer in agricultural implements in San Francisco, Mrs. William H. Moore lives in Wisconsin, and Emily resides in this town. 

    Silas Dole came to Danville from New Bedford, Mass., about 1798, and settled on the farm where his grandson, E. J. Dole, now lives, on road 49. He reared a family of thirteen children, all of whom located either in Danville or the adjoining towns. He died in 1831. His son Stephen, who was eight years of age when he came here with his father, was a mechanic and inventor, and invented the one-horse threshing machine, the first used in this vicinity. He reared twelve children, eight of whom are living, as follows: Eleanor (Mrs. Clement), who resides in Washington, D.C., Martha C. (Mrs. Morrill), of Barnet, Annis S. (Mrs. O. Neal), of Walden, E. J., Laura W. (Mrs. Morse), Joel R., William M., and J. Murry. Stephen studied two years at West Point, took an active interest in military affairs, and was major-general of militia. He was also selectman of the town, etc. 

    Samuel Morrill and his son Samuel came to Danville from Loudon, N. H., about 1798, and located on the farm where C. L. Morrill now lives. The house where the latter lives was built in 1801. Samuel reared six sons and one daughter. Of these, Judge Calvin Morrill located at East St. Johnsbury, engaged in mercantile business, and died in 1884; Dea. Benjamin, the only one living resides at Orfordville, N. H.; Cyrus died in Derby; Dea. Asa moved from Danville to East St. Johnsbury, where he died in 1861; Trew died in Danville; Samuel died in St. Johnsbury when a young man; and the daughter married R. W. Miner, of Peacham. Dea. Asa married twice, and reared a family of six children, five of whom are living. One son, Stephen S., was a Congregational minister, graduated at Chicago, and preached in Malden, Ill. He entered the army as chaplain, served two years, when he returned to New Hampshire, and preached there and in Massachusetts. He died in Danville in 1878. The five children of Dea. Asa now living are Mrs. H. T. Lay, Mrs. W. A. Merrick, both of Illinois, Mrs. Hamilton, of Iowa, Mrs. J. A. Webster and Dea. Charles L. The latter has been deacon of the Congregational church for the past thirty-five years. 

    James and Abel Guild, brothers, came to Danville from Northfield, N. H., at an early day, and settled in the western part of the town, where they cleared farms. Abel died in 1860, James having died a number of years previous. John, son of James, was born in Danville, in 1812, and resided in this vicinity until his death in 1883. He had born to him two children, Mrs. Abbie Adams and Alfred, both living in this town. The latter has been engaged in mercantile business at West Danville three years, and has also been engaged in farming. 

    Moses Webster came to Danville from New Hampshire, about 1790, and located on road 25, where he started a clearing. He afterwards removed to the farm where Uri Kittridge now lives, and died in 1852. He reared a family of eleven children, four of whom are now living, namely, Mark C., George W., Betsey (Mrs. Cole), and John A. 

    Stephen Langmaid came to Danville, from Tunbridge, Vt., at an early day, and located on the farm where Edward Taylor now lives. He reared a large family of children, one of whom, Solomon, lives in Iowa, and is ninety years of age. One son, Willard K., resides in town, served in the War of 1812, and now draws a pension. 

    Benjamin Haviland came to this town, from Westchester county, N.Y., some time previous to 1800 and settled near the village. One son, Ebenezer, moved west. The others, Samuel, William, Benjamin C. and one daughter, Deborah, who became Mrs. Batchelder, remained in town. One son of Benjamin resides in town, and Walter, son of William, also lives here. Two daughters of Samuel, Mrs. Joel R. Sanborn and Mrs. W. D. Huntress, live in town. 

    Franklin Hooker came here from Sturbridge, Mass., about 1800, and settled on the farm where his son George W. now lives. He was a farmer, and died in 1883, in his ninety-first year.  George W. served nearly two years in the late war. 

    Samuel Weeks, from New Hampshire, located, in 1800, on the place where Peter Weeks now lives. He died there about 1834. Three of his twelve children are now living, two in this town, Mrs. Ruth Gage and Harrison Weeks, who lives off road 5.  John P. was born in 1812, lived on the farm where his father settled, and practiced medicine. He married twice, reared fifteen children, seven of whom are living, and died in 1882. 

    Theophilus Drew came here from Gilmanton, N.H., about 1801, and cleared the farm where his son now lives. He married first, Betsey Weeks, and second Eliza Norris. He reared eighteen children, ten sons and eight daughters, of whom Ora N., George R., Mrs. Maria Stanton, and Mrs. Sarah Stanton live in town, and Mrs. Helen Forsyth lives in St. Johnsbury. 

    Isaac W. Stanton and three sons, Erastus, Isaac W. and John A. , came to Danville from Holderness, N. H., in March, 1805, and located in the northern part of the town. 

    William J. Stanton born in 1808, has always lived in town. He has been engaged in trade at North Danville about twenty years, has been post-master twenty years, and has served as justice most of the time since 1835. He has been lister about thirty-five years, has served as selectman, and was town representative in 1863-64. 

    Daniel Gookin, 2d, came to Danville, from Washington, N. H., in 1806, and located at South Danville, where he ran a carding-mill. He afterwards engaged in farming and died in 1865. Of his children, two reside in town, and one in Peacham. Daniel O., who resides on road 69, is engaged in the insurance business. A Daniel Gookin also located at North Danville, and for a time carried on the carding business at the mill now said to be the first carding-mill ever brought to America. 

    Josiah Morse came here from Deering, N. H., in 1806, and located on the farm where his son David W. now lives, on road 84. He reared a family of seven children, four of whom are living, viz.: David W., who resides on the homestead, James F., who is in Patterson, N.J., Mrs. Cummings, who lives in Barnet, and Mrs. McCaffey, who resides in St. Johnsbury. Mr. Morse died in 1861 or 1862. 

    Aaron Thompson moved to Peacham, from Massachusetts, about 1804, and settled in the northwestern part of the town. He reared three sons and five daughters, one of whom, Harriet, became the wife of William S. Choate, who came to Danville about 1808. He learned the cloth dressing trade at Peacham, and was the first to engage in the manufacture of woolen goods there, and was also engaged in that business at South Danville. He died at North Montpelier in 1865. Three of his four children are now living, Edwin R. and Ann Maria Taber, who reside at North Montpelier, and David W., 2d, of West Danville. 

    Dr. Calvin Woodward was born at Southbridge, Mass., in 1836, and graduated at the Eclectic Medical college, of Worcester. He located at Danville in 1847, since which time he has practiced his profession here. 

    Thomas Varney came to this town in 1811, and located at North Danville. He was a clothier by trade, and run a wool-carding and cloth-dressing mill here. He died in 1825. His sons Samuel and Charles continued the business, and also run a saw and grist-mill, a part of which property they afterwards sold. After Samuel retired from the firm, Charles continued to run the grist-mill until about 1875. He is now engaged in farming. 

    Jonathan Batchelder came here, from Conway, N. H., about 1815, and located on the farm where his only son Jonathan, born in 1819, now lives. He married Mrs. Susan Daniels. He died in 1842. 

    Moses Batchelder came here from Barnstead, N.H., with his father, Jethro, when about fourteen years of age. They located on the place now owned by Moses M. Batchelder. Moses married Deborah Haviland and reared eight children, five of whom are living, viz.: Moses M., Rebecca, Hiram, Frank C. and Mary C., all residing in this town. Mr. Batchelder died about 1864. 

    William A. Palmer was born at Hebron, Conn., September 12, 1781, and came to Vermont about 1800. He studied law with Hon. Daniel Buck, of Chelsea, practiced his profession in St. Johnsbury for a few years, and afterwards located in Danville. Probably no man in the state ever held so many offices of honor and profit. He frequently represented his town in the legislature, held the office of supreme judge, was United States senator for seven years, and was governor from 1831 to 1835. Governor Palmer was a man of extensive influence, particularly among his own townsmen. He possessed a strong and vigorous intellect, a mind well balanced, and a heart tender and benevolent. Many a man in Danville could testify to his generosity in rendering pecuniary assistance without security, and often times without the hope of return. He married Sarah, daughter of Capt. Peter Blanchard, in 1813, and reared seven children, of whom, JudgeWilliam B., Abial C., Henry W. and Frank R. reside in Danville, and Judge Edward lives in Georgia. 

    Stanley Page came to Danville, from Gilmanton, N.H., about 1812, located at North Danville, and died here in 1884. Two of his sons, William P. and N. H., live in town. 

   Elijah Sargent, with two sons and five daughters, came here from Canterbury, N.H., about 1810, and located in the northern part of the town. He died in Lancaster, N.H., about 1846. His son John located about a mile from where his son M.V.B. now lives, reared five children, four of whom are living, of whom two sons and one daughter reside in Minnesota, and M.V.B. lives in town. Charles, brother of John, moved to Illinois, where he now resides.

    Abial Fisher and his son Lewis came to Danville, from Putney, Vt., in 1806, and settled on road 60. John, Allen and Abial, younger sons of Abial, also located in town. Abial, Sr., died in 1828. Lewis was a Baptist minister, and was ordained in 1821.  In 1814 he settled on road 50, on the farm where his son Joel H. now lives. He preached in various places and in his own town, and reared nine children, only two of whom are living, Hiram M., of  Penacook, N.H., and Joel H., of this town. The latter was born January 3, 1813, and has resided here most of his life. He has held the office of lister twenty years. 

    Phineas Lee moved to Peacham, from Woodstock, Conn., in 1800, and in 1840 located in Danville, on the farm where Charles W. Badger, who married his daughter, now lives. Mr. Lee died in 1877. 

    Dr. Nathaniel Cook moved to Waterford, from Rhode Island, at an early day, and practiced his profession there for many years. He was a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity, and died in that town in 1817. William, one of his four children, was born at Waterford, about 1809, moved to Danville some time previous to 1830, where he resided until his death in 1874. He run the grist-mill at West Danville about thirty years. Of his children, H. W. and George W. reside in town, and Frank W. lives in Peacham. H. W. has been engaged in the manufacture of clothing at Danville, about thirty-two years, has been town agent, and has served as justice of the peace seventeen years. 

    Col. Addison W. Preston, born in Burke, December 8, 1830, was a son of William and Mary (Hull) Preston, and when four years of age, moved with his parents to Danville. He fitted for college at Danville academy, and entered Brown university in 1851, but his health failing, he was obliged to leave, and by the advice of physicians sailed for Australia. He resided there for a short time, and then went to California. After four years he returned to Danville, and engaged in farming. In September, 1861, he enlisted in the 1st Vt. Cav., and was made recruiting officer. He was made captain of Co. D, at the organization of that company. He became successively major, lieutenant-colonel and colonel, and was killed at the battle of Cold Harbor, June 3, 1864. 

    Elmore Wakefield came to St. Johnsbury, from Maine, at an early day, and located near where the village now is. His son Lorenzo P. was born in that town, but removed to Lyndon, about 1837, and died in West Concord, Vt., in November, 1873. He married three times, and reared a family of nineteen children, fourteen of whom are living, of whom two, Daniel K. and Mrs. Martha Stevens, live in this town. One, Horace, lives in St. Johnsbury, one resides in Barton, five in Boston, four in Concord, Vt., and one in Ogdensburg, N.Y. Daniel K., who was engaged in the bakery business in Boston for twenty-five years, served as selectman of Danville in 1884. 

    James Crane moved to St. Johnsbury, from Bethlehem about 1817, and located in the eastern part of the town. Three of his sons now reside in Danville, namely, James, George and Charles. The house in which George Crane now lives was built by Dr. Uri Babbett, one of the earliest physicians of the town. 

    Moses Wesson came to Danville, from Barnet, of which town his father was an early settler. He married Phebe Brock, and reared five children, three of whom are living, viz.: Mrs. Hannah Martin, of Peacham, and Moses and Peter, both of this town. 

    Dea. John Frye moved to Concord, from Royalston, Mass., about 1790, and settled near Concord Corners. He was a farmer, and was many years deacon of the Congregational church. He reared six sons, all of whom located near him, viz.: Harvey G., John, Hiram, Harry, Chauncy and Ebenezer. Harvey G. was a prominent business man, was town clerk many years, was town representative, assistant judge, etc., and died about 1866. John was a trial justice many years, and died in l881. His only son, John L., lives in Danville, and is engaged in auctioneering and farming. Ebenezer now lives at West Concord. 

    David Currier moved to Peacham, from Connecticut, some time previous to 1800, and settled in the eastern part of the town, where he resided until his death. He reared four sons and four daughters, none now living. His son David resided on the homestead. Moses T., son of David, now resides in Danville. 

    William Carrick, a native of Scotland, settled in Barnet about 1805, near the center of the town. He reared a family of eight children, two of whom are living, namely, William, of Barnet, and Andrew, of Danville. Mr. Carrick died about 1876, aged ninety-one years. 

    Nathaniel Burbank moved to Walden, from Sanbornton, N.H., about 1800, and located in the southern part of the town. Joseph was twelve years of age when he came here with his father. He cleared a farm, and reared a family of five children, three of whom are living, viz.: Nathaniel, who lives on the old farm, Mrs. Philura Hibbard, of Walden, and Harvey, of Danville. 

    Daniel Holt, a native of Amherst, N.H., located in Ryegate about 1795, settling in the center of the town. He was a blacksmith, and married Martha, daughter of Capt. Acilles Towne, a Revolutionary soldier. He reared nine children, three of whom are living, namely: Mary D., of Beebe Plain, Vt., Sophia C., of Boston, and John, who now resides in Danville. The latter, born June 19, 1811, was engaged for thirty years in running rafts down the Connecticut river, and now lives at West Danville. 

    Lemuel Northrop, a Revolutionary soldier, moved to Peacham from Connecticut, soon after the Revolutionary war, and located near the Danville line. He reared three children, Jonathan, Joseph and Prudie. Jonathan came to Danville about fifty-seven years ago, and located on the place where his son James now lives, where he remained until his death. Joseph always lived in Peacham, and died in 1862. Two of his sons now reside in that town. 

    David Brown came to Danville from Hinsdale, N.H., about 1825, and settled in the southern part of the town. He was a carpenter by trade, was a farmer, and was also engaged in the manufacture of starch. He died February 19, 1879. Ezra H., one of his five children, enlisted in the late war served three years and nine months, and now resides on road 70. 

    Eleazer Pope and his two brothers, Joseph and Perley P., came to Danville from Massachusetts, before 1789. Eleazer bought land of Gen. Jacob Bailey, and was the first settler on the place where B. F. Clifford now lives. He died August 28, 1845, aged eighty-eight years. His son Allen was born on the farm in 1796, and spent his life there. 

    Samuel Estabrooks was born in Keene, N.H., in 1777, came to Danville from Sheffield, Vt., about 1807, and settled where Daniel P. Coveney now lives, when there was but a small clearing upon the farm. He married Susan Colby, and died September 4, 1848. His children were as follows: Pamelia born in 1808, Tryphenia, born in 1810, Lucena, born in 1812, Samuel, Jr. born in 1814, John, born in 1816, Amanda, born in 1824, Warren, born in 1827, and Susan born in 1830. Samuel, Jr., married Elvira Northrop, and reared one son and five daughters. Warren moved to St. Johnsbury, where he is engaged in the mercantile business.

    John Coveny, a native of Ireland, came to America, locating in St. Johnsbury, about 1831, and moved to the northern part of Danville in 1832, where he died, aged eighty years. He was the father of eight children. His son Bernard was born in Ireland, December, 1814, and came to America when seventeen years of age. He married Mary Welch, of Montpelier, and four sons and four daughters were born to them. 

    Dr. Royal M. Ayer was born in Newfield, Me., studied medicine with Dr. Towle, of Fryeburn, Me., graduated from the medical department of Bowdoin college, in 1835, and began practice in Turner, Me. He married Abigail O. McMillan, sister of Hon. Andrew McMillan, late of Danville, and came to this town in 1839. Dr. Ayer wrote somewhat for the medical journals, was widely known, and was a member of the Congregational church. He reared two children, Dr. James M. and Emma D. He died April 14, 1878, aged sixty-six years, and his widow died June 13, 1886. His son James M. graduated from Dartmouth college in 1860, and from New York college of Physicians and Surgeons in 1855. After being engaged one year as resident physician in St. Luke's hospital, he went to Buenos Ayres, South America, where he resided, in general practice, until 1886. 

    Samuel Ward, of Dublin, N.H., moved to Wheelock at an early day. His three sons came with him, Thaddeus and Josiah locating in Danville; and Samuel in what is now Stannard. Thaddeus settled on the farm now occupied by his son Thomas J. He died in 1862. Beside Thomas J., Samuel and Thaddeus, two other sons reside in town. 

    The Congregational church was organized by Rev. N. Lambert, of  Newbury, Rev. E. Smith, of Haverhill, N.H., and Rev. W. Cornwall, with twenty members, August 9, 1792. Rev. John Fitch was the first pastor. The first meeting-house was built in 1790, of logs, and covered and floored with bark, and hence called the “bark meeting-house.” A framed house was built in 1801, and though it was never finished, was used as a place of worship for sixteen years. Then the frame work of the present church at “The Green”  was put up, in the year 1817. It was built of wood, at a cost of $3,000.00, paid in neat cattle and grain. This building was remodeled in 1851, and finished in a modern style, and has not been changed very much since. It is a very pretty country church, will comfortably seat 500 persons, and is valued at $6,500.00. The society now has 130 members, with Rev. T. W. Darling, pastor. 

    The Methodist Episcopal church, at Danville village, has 103 members, with Rev. Christopher P. Flanders, pastor. Their first house of worship was built in 1822, and the present structure was erected in 1884. It will comfortably accommodate 300 persons, and is valued at $6,700.00. 

    The First Free-will Baptist church, located at North Danville, was organized by its first pastor, Rev. Thomas M. Jackson, with twelve members, April 19. 1825. The society now has fifty-six members, with Rev. Mark Atwood, pastor. The church building was erected in 1868, at a cost of $3,400.00. It is a wood structure capable of seating 250 persons, and is valued, including grounds, at $5,000.00. 
 

Gazetteer of Caledonia and Essex Counties, VT.; 1764-1887, 
Compiled and Published by Hamilton Child; 
May 1887, Page 172-189)

This chapter was provided by Tom Dunn.

1887–1888 Danville City Directory ~ Hamilton Childs

1790 Census for Danville - VTGen Web

1800 Census for Danville - VTGen Web

Danville Civil War Volunteers - VTGen Web

Danville's Greenbanks Hollow Bridge

Danville Township, Caledonia County