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"Lake Champlain bounds this town on all sides.  The passage in the lake, however, is very narrow between the towns of North and South Hero.  The lake is fordable a considerable part of the year on the Vermont side.  The town was formerly a part of North Hero, and was separated from it in 1788. It is supposed that all the lands of this island county were once covered by the waters of the lake . . . The scenery around these islands is beautiful.  This vicinity was a favorite resort for the Indians . . . South Hero was chartered together with Grand Isle, North Hero and Vineyard, to Ethan Allen, Samuel Herrick and others, October 27, 1779." 

Gazetteer of Vermont, Hayward, 1849. 
 



HISTORY OF THE TOWN OF
SOUTH HERO

BY R. K. CLARK, M.D.

      South Hero, a post-town in the south part of Grand-Isle County, is bounded on the north by the town of Grand-lsle, -- on all other portions, by lake Champlain.

      It lies 12 miles N. of Burlington, in nearly a direct line, and during the winter months, after the ice becomes strong enough for teams to cross, a large amount of travel passes through the town. Two stages daily, between Burlington and Plattsburgh, pass through the place, usually meeting and dining at the Island-House. It is 19 miles from South Hero Centre to Burlington, by the way of the Sand-Bar bridge. It is 16 miles S. W. from St. Albans in a direct line, and 20 miles by the bridge.

      This town was chartered, together with Grand-Isle and the islands north, to Ethan ALLEN, Samuel HERRICK and others, Oct. 27, 1779. It was at first, one town with Grand-Isle and North Hero, and was called the town of Two Heroes; and the first records of town-meetings were held under that name. North Hero was first set off as a town by itself in 1798 or '99. This island was divided into two towns, and called South Hero and Middle Hero. In Nov. 5, 1810, the name of Middle Hero was changed to Grand-Isle.

      South Hero was said to contain 9,065 acres; but it was really much larger, as the first surveyors had to make their surveys through dense forests, and made a very liberal allowance for points of land, roads, &c. It must have contained 10,000 acres at first. It has doubtless diminished considerably by the constant washing of the lake on its shores; evidence of which is very plain, especially on our south shore, where the roots of large trees have been washed out, and the trees fallen down, that must have taken centuries to have grown, and must have had an abundance of soil to have attained their gigantic dimensions.

      The early settlers of this, as well as through the islands, suffered from epidemics and intermittent fevers; but, since the country has been cleared, no portion of Vermont is more healthy.

      The soil of this town is of the best quality for grass, grain and fruits -- especially the apple and plumb. The fruit crop is usually much larger than is required for home consumption, and the sale of apples affords quite a revenue, annually, to the inhabitants.

      This town has many large and well-cultivated farms, averaging from 100 to 300 acres -- the more successful farmer having bought out the smaller and less successful, and their owners have emigrated, mostly to the West, so that at the present time there is not more than one half the number of native inhabitants there was 40 years ago.

      The principal business of the inhabitants is farming -- sheep husbandry taking the lead of all other branches. There is considerable grain raised for market, and wool and grain constitute the principal articles of export.

      The scenery, for variety and beauty of landscape, is not excelled by any town in New England. A beholder may stand on some elevated portions of the town, and have a view of the opposite shores on both sides, with the Adriondacks in the west, Mount Mansfield in the east, as seen in the distance, with the lesser mountains between the placid waters of the lake on either side between you and the shore -- the many little islands, with their covering of green foliage, and the many points of land jutting into the waters from the island and opposite shores, in bold relief, as may be seen in a summer-sunset -- affording a scene of beauty and grandeur to the admirer of natural scenery, almost enchanting.

      This town has several mineral springs that are becoming noted for their medicinal qualities. I shall make particular mention of but three. The first is situated on the farm of Mr. John LANDON, about three-fourths of a mile from the toll-gate connected with the Sand-bar bridge, in the S. E. part of the town. This spring is strongly impregnated with sulphur, and has been found of great value in curing cutaneous diseases. This spring, and the one I shall next mention, on the farm of Mr. Fred. LANDON, were found by the early settlers following paths made by moose and deer going to these springs to drink. These animals requiring salt, especially in summer, when feeding on fresh grasses around the shores of the lake, had been attracted to these springs, by the saline qualities of the water, to satisfy this demand of their natures. The paths are said to have been very distinct, and to come in from different directions. Cattle and sheep manifest the same desire to drink of these waters, and will pass directly by other waters to go to these springs.

      The Fred LANDON spring is in the north part of the town, on the west shore of Keeler's bay, about 15 rods from the lake. The main road through the town to Grand-Isle runs between the spring and the bay, in plain view of both.

      A fine spring-house has been erected over this spring, by its enterprising proprietors, and about one-fourth of an acre has been enclosed around it, and set to shade-trees. A neat, commodious boarding-house has been built near this spring; and although only opened for guests the last week in June, 1868, was soon filled with a highly respectable class of boarders, mostly from the cities of New York, Boston and Detroit -- some in search of health, others for relaxation and amusement. Those who came as invalids were greatly benefited. In some cases very great and marked improvement was soon manifested.

      For a long time some establishment of this kind has been desired by those who wish to get out of the smoke and dust of the city, as well as to accommodate those who wish to try the virtues of the waters; and the gentlemanly proprietor is entitled to much credit for what he has done. Boats are provided for those who like to amuse themselves, sailing and fishing. Fish were taken plentifully -- the past summer a number of pickerel that weighed 12 lbs. and upwards. The drives around the island are charming. Our roads are very fine in summer, and the scenery delightful. Those in search of health, or pleasure, will not find a more desirable summer resort, than on our beautiful Island.

      An analysis of the water of the Fred LANDON spring proves it to contain many valuable medicinal properties, for the cure of many complaints; but those inclined to consumption seemed to be the class of invalids most certainly benefited by the water; which the water had opportunity to observe, and, as a physician, can highly and conscientiously recommend.

      The third mineral spring, and the last I shall mention, is located on the north-west shore of the lake, on the farm of David CORBAN. From its smell and taste, I think it contains very nearly the same medicinal qualities of the Fred LANDON spring. A curious fact in relation to this spring is, it is under the waters of the lake a large portion of the year, and consequently inaccessible, except when the waters of the lake are lowest for a short time in summer.

      The first town-meeting I find recorded, after the north Island was set off, was held March 10, 1789, Stephen PEARL, moderator; Ebenezer ALLEN, town clerk; Alexander GORDON, Ephraim DUEL, William HAZEN, Stephen PEARL and Ebenezer ALLEN, selectmen: Isaac ADAMS, first constable and collector of taxes, and Reuben CLAMP, second constable.

      June 1, 1789, another town-meeting was held, to see if the town would vote to hire a minister of the gospel, to preach in town, for the year ensuing.


"Voted to raise a tax of three pence on a pound, to pay a minister -- said tax to be paid to the collector, by the first day of December following, in wheat, at four shillings per bushel, or Indian corn at three shillings."

      At the same town-meeting a committee was appointed to lay out two burying-places for the use of the town -- one to accommodate the north, and the other the south part of the town.

      At their next March meeting, 1790, after reelecting nearly the same town officers, they voted to raise a tax of 3d. per £, to defray town expenses, and to raise the sum of £60 to pay for preaching -- these taxes to be paid in wheat and corn, at 4s. and 3s. per bushel. No mention is made of their having preaching -- most likely they did.

      At a freemen's meeting, September, 1792, a committee was chosen to draft a petition to the General Assembly, to divide the town. Timothy ALLEN and Jedediah HYDE were the committee appointed.

      At a town-meeting held March, 1793, a committee was chosen to hire a preacher: Joseph PHELPS, Alpheus HALL, Samuel MIX and Ebenezer ALLEN, were the committee; "voted to request the committee to hire Rev. Mr. WILLIAMS," – and


"Voted a tax of six pence on the pound; to pay for preaching, one fourth in cash, and three fourths in wheat, at four shillings per bushel, and the place for holding their meetings be in the Sand-bar district school-house."

      At another meeting, August, same year, it was voted to instruct their committee to extend a call to Rev. Mr. WILLIAMS, to settle with them in the gospel ministry. No record is made of any report of this committee, whether they extended the call to Mr. WILLIAMS or not, he did not settle. I do not find what Mr. W.'s first name was, or to what denomination he belonged -- probably Congregational; £60 a year is mentioned as his salary.

      The first marriage recorded, was between Howe GRAHAM and Mary ALLEN, and was solemnized by Ebenezer ALLEN, justice peace. In 1788, a year before any town-record was made, under the name of South Hero, the next marriage was solemnized by the same justice, and one in 1793, by Stephen PEARL, justice peace.

      At one of the town-meetings mentioned it was voted that no swine should be allowed to run at large, from the first day of May, to the first day of September, following, unless said swine wore a yoke, not less than 8 inches above the neck, and 5 inches below, and had suitable rings in their noses. Some special reference is made to swine in nearly every town-meeting, at this early day, and a large corps of hog-howards, or hog-constables, were annually elected. It was the last office to fill in town, and was the occasion of no little merriment. At one town-meeting, I should think, nearly every voter, that had not been previously appointed to some office, was elected hog-constable. If a man had aspired to some town-office, and failed to get the appointment, because his townsmen did not think as highly of his fitness as he did of himself; he was sure to get appointed hog-howard. If a man had married during the year, he was sure of the office of hog-howard; or if he had done any mean or niggardly thing during the year, be was remembered by an appointment to this important office.

      From the dividing of the town to 1817, no records of town-meetings can be found. Records of all the deeds of land are preserved, but the records of town-meetings had some things recorded that certain persons did not wish handed down to posterity, and so it is supposed destroyed them, as much time has been spent searching for the lost records; but they cannot be found; "but the two Heroes, by the census 1791, had become the most populous of any settlement north of Otter Creek, west of the Greed Mountains."

      The following are the names and ages -- at the time of their death -- of some of the first settlers. viz.: Samuel CHAMBERLIN, aged 93; Benajah PHELPS, 92; Fanny CLARK. 88; Lucy PHELPS, 93; Eunice CHAMBERLAIN, 86; Lucy LAMSON; 84; Thaddeus LANDON, 79.

      Alpheus HALL, Benjamin ADAMS, Capt. Thomas DIXON and John MONTE were in the war of the Revolution, and drew pensions. John MONTE was from France, and is said to have come to this country with Lafayette. There were probably more; but these are the names given me as pensioners. Col. Ebenezer ALLEN was a noted warrior, of Revolutionary history, and probably died before pensions were granted.

      There were but few, if any, regular soldiers from this town in 1812, except volunteers, as occasion called for them during the excursions of the British down the lake.


PHYSICIANS

      Physicians who have lived in town and practiced for longer or shorter period:

      Dr. Jacob ROEBECK, a Swede, had been army surgeon under Frederick, King of Prussia, and had an appointment as surgeon in our army of the Revolution, Drs. Melvin BARNES, David TAYLOR, HYDE, STEARNS, GOODENOW, Elisha ROOT, Sylvanus HUMPHREY, Simeon CLARK, Elijah HERRICK, A. C. BUTLER, Dr. GALE. Present Physicians are Abraham HARDING, and R. K. CLARK.

      DR. SIMEON CLARK moved into town at an early day, He bad practiced in St. Albans and in Grand-Isle; he practiced but little in this town; gave his attention to farming; was a successful farmer, and owned a number of farms, and is said to have been the wealthiest man in town at the time of his death.
      BENAJAH PHELPS, whose name is mentioned as having died at 92, came here with his father when a boy; was among the first settlers. He had 18 sons and daughters, that grew up to be man and women. Many of them married and settled in town, and are among our best citizens. The number of his descendants must be near 300 persons, at the present time. A story is told of Uncle Benajah, as he is familiarly called. On one occasion he and his brother Alexander saw a black bear swimming to the Island, (and being sons of Nimrod, as some of his descendants now are) thought to have rare fun capturing bruin. -- Jumping into a small boat, with no weapon except a pitchfork they chanced to have with them, they made for the bear, who seemed rather to welcome them; and seizing hold of the bow of their boat, began climbing in. They could not beat him off, but had all they could, do to keep the boat from upsetting, while bruin very deliberately climbed in, and seated himself in the bow of their boat, and waited for our heroes to row him on shore, which they gladly did; not daring to offer the bear any provocation, who appeared well pleased with his situation, and was quite as well prepared to defend, as they were for an attack. Wisely deeming prudence, in this case, the better part of valor, they rowed bruin ashore; and he without paying his fare, jumped out and ran to the woods, leaving his would-be captors feeling themselves second-best in the affair.

      Bears were quite plenty on the Island at an early day, and swam back and forth to and from the main land, as they chose. Two other instances are recorded, of persons attempting to capture them with boats, and the bears climbed in and drove the boatmen overboard, allowing the boats to drift on shore with them -- one at the north end of Grand-Isle, and one near Addison.

      BENJAMIN LANDON was one of the early settlers. He built the first brick-house in town, which is now standing with its ancient gamble roof, about one fourth of a mile from the Sand-bar bridge. He had but a small family; none of his descendants are now in town.
      THADDEUS LANDON, who came about the same time, had a large family of sons and daughters who married, and many of them had large families. A majority of them reside in town at the present time, and constitute a large and highly respectable portion of our citizens. Jesse, now 72 years of age, and John, some years younger, are the only two children now living in town -- but grand-children, and great-grand-children are very numerous, and in all number over 200. John now owns and occupies the old homestead his father first purchased and cleared up from the forest -- others live adjoining, or quite near. Very few, if another, instance can be found, of any of the early settlers of Vermont having so large and respectable a number of descendants, residing so near the patriarchal mansion, as Thaddeus LANDON. Franklin ROBINSON, now in his 77th year, came to the Island in 1802. He married a daughter of Thaddeus LANDON, and raised a large family. He settled near his father-in-law. The number of descendants from this daughter of Mr. LANDON is 35. -- -Abner BALDWIN, one of the sons of Thaddeus LANDON, had thirty-five -- making seventy descendants from those two branches, by a son and daughter.
      COL. EBENEZER ALLEN was the first settler. He arrived August 25, 1783. Enos WOOD, who settled on North Hero, and Alexander GORDON, who settled on the north end of this Island, came the same day. ALLEN claimed that he arrived at his place three hours earlier in the day than GORDON, and was therefore the first man, that landed on this Island, as a settler. It was at his house that Col. Ethan ALLEN staid the night before he died. He had come with his servant to the Island for a load of hay, spent the night, or staid till late into the night -- was urged by the Colonel to stop 'till morning; but, having drank free, was not to be persuaded; started about 2 oclock in the morning for home on the load, -- his man driving, who, when he arrived home found his master dead, or was found in a fit of apoplexy, was bled, lived several hours, died at his own house, but never recovered his consciousness. 
      CAPT. THOMAS DIXON, whose name is mentioned as a pensioner of the Revolution, came to reside in town about 1790. He was a patriot of 1776, and held a Captain's commission in the army. He is spoken of by those who remember him, as a very worthy man, of a kindly disposition, and brave and heroic in times of danger. When the British came down the Lake, and made their attack on Plattesburgh, Capt. DIXON took his gun and hastened to the scene of action; and, like another old '76 militia man, who was seen fighting in one of the battles of the Revolution, and, being asked what company he belonged to replied, "no company, I fight the British on my own hook," he became so engaged during the battle he did not observe the Americans were falling back, and when he did discover his situation, that he would certainly be killed, or taken prisoner, as he had boasted, he never had, and never would, turn his back to the British, he commenced retreating backward, facing the enemy, and fighting as he retreated. He had three or four bullet holes shot through his clothes, but turned not his face to the foe; and though it was little less than a miracle, he fortunately escaped to a place of safety and kept his word, not to turn his back to the British.
      LORENZO HALL, now in his 74th year, was born in this town, and is the oldest person living in town, that was born here; his father, Alpheus HALL, was one of the first settlers, and held town offices. The following incident is related to the writer by Lorenzo HALL.

      The first Methodist minister who visited this Island was Rev. William ANSON. He was sent as a missionary by the Troy Conference, in the summer of 1802. On his way he was informed that the inhabitants were living in a savage state, and he would not be likely to benefit them by his labors. He arrived at the Sandbar on Saturday afternoon, July 3d. He found no means of crossing but a raft. He endeavored to cross on this rude and frail craft, but the wind not favoring him, he was twice driven back. His ill success, together with the character which had been given him of the Islanders, produced the most despondent feelings. He, however, after due reflection, said to himself, "I will make one more attempt to cross over to the Island, and if I fail this time, I will take it as evidence the Lord has not called me to preach to the barbarous Islanders." This time he was more successful, and reached the Island. Meeting one of the inhabitants, he enquired if there was a public house on the Island. He informed him there was a tavern about 2 miles from there; "but, said he, you will find hard fare, for they are' out of rum." He came on, and found the tavern, and put up for the night. The next morning he was aroused by the firing of guns, which did not make a very favorable impression; but on recollecting it was 4th of July, was better reconciled, The firing soon ceased. Mr. ANSON informed them he was a minister, and asked if a house could be opened for him to preach, to such as had a mind to hear him. Thomas DIXON opened his house, and Mr. ANSON preached. This was the first Methodist preaching in town. Mr. ANSON is said to have been a successful preacher. During the year he extended his labors to the Islands north; and to Alburgh. A Methodist society was formed, and probably a church, during the year, which bas continued with greater or less prosperity to the present time.


MINISTERS WHO HAVE BEEN IN TOWN.

      CONGREGATIONAL, -- Revs. Daniel FRANCIS, A. B. RICH, J. W. HEALY. METHODIST, -- Revs. Seymour LANDON, Warren MOONEY.

      Rev. Seymour LANDON was a son of Asahel LANDON, a local Methodist preacher, who resided in this town. He was a brother of Thaddeus LANDON, of whom mention has been made. He raised quite a family. None of his descendants reside in town at the present time.


ATTORNEYS WHO HAVE RESIDED
AND PRACTICED IN TOWN.

      Now resident, -- Solon CLARK and Henry HARRINGTON. Former attorneys, -- Hector ADAMS, Philo BERRY. John BRONSON, Morey WOODRUFF, Charles PERRIGO, Amos BLODGET, David G. DIXON, Asa ROBINSON, A. G. WHITTEMORE, Newel LYON and William W. WHITE.

      WILLIAM WARNER WHITE was raised in this town. He studied law with Hon. Giles HARRINGTON, of Alburgh; practiced law a short time in Alburgh; moved to Johnson, Lamoille County, where he engaged in practice for a few years, when he removed to St. Albans, in Franklin County. Mr. WHITE was a man of more than ordinary talents in his profession, an able and faithful advocate for his clients. He represented his county in the senate; was a leading member of Franklin County bar, and bid fair to stand at the head of his profession in Franklin County. He died young, in the height of an honorable professional career.
      ABNER KEELER came to this town in 1806. He was the leading, and at times, the principal merchant in town. Mr. KEELER began life a poor boy, laboring in the lumber business; commenced trade on a small scale in Troy, New York; then for a short time in Sunderland, Vt. ; from which place he removed to the Island. Mr. KEELER was a shrewd business man, and accumulated a large property for a country town. He died in 1852 His property was inventoried at $150.000. He had no children, and gave it by will to his brother's children, who came from Connecticut to inherit their uncle's property, and now reside in town.
      RICHARD MOTT came with his family to reside in town at an early day. He located himself near the Sand-bar, over which the Sand-bar bridge was built. He had a family of children. One son, Lewis MOTT, resided on the old homestead. He built a fine residence, the first house on the Island side of the bridge, after the toll-house. He died a few years since, leaving a large estate to his widow and son. The son soon followed, leaving the entire estate to the mother, who now owns and occupies it.

      WALLACE MOTT, another son, now nearly 80 years old, owns and occupies a large estate, joining the old homestead, living in a green old age, and reputed to be the wealthiest man in town. Richard, another son, studied law and settled as an attorney in the city of New York, where he now resides. James, another son, resides in town with his family -- a much esteemed and highly respected family, living in one of the corners of what is known as the four-corners in town. There was another son, and one or more daughters, that lived to have families. They have died, and none of their descendants, if they had any, reside in town.


THE SAND-BAR BRIDGE

      Chartered to O. G. WHEELER, Melvin BARNES, and 33 others, Nov. 11, 1847. Its capital stock was $25,000, in shares of $10 each. At a meeting of the company, Jan. 1, 1848, it was voted to proceed at once to a collection of a portion of the capital stock, then nearly all subscribed for, to accept their charter, and commence building.

      The distance across the water was a mile and 20 rods, The contract to build this part was given to Samuel BOARDMAN, at $18,000; and he was to take $1,000 in stock, toward payment, and $17,000 in cash. He commenced building, Aug. 1, 1849, and had his part of the work ready, so that the bridge was opened for crossing to the public, Dec. 5, 1850.

      A.G. WHITTEMORE took the contract to build the road through the marsh, a distance of 2 miles, for $5,500, and to take $300 in stock toward payment, and to have his road ready as soon as BOARDMAN should complete the bridge, which contract he fulfilled. The entire cost at the opening of the bridge and road to the public travel, was $24,016.62, including toll-house, gate and fixtures.

      Many of the citizens of this town engaged with great, and most commendable zeal in the enterprise. Nearly two-thirds of the stock was taken in this town. Wallis MOTT took shares to the amount of $1,000, Lewis MOTT $1,000, Abner B. LANDON $1,000, Jesse LANDON $800, John LANDON $500, James MOTT $500, and many others took from $100 to $500, according to their means, and anxiety to have a bridge to the main land.

      The rates of toll, as established by the county court in pursuance of the charter, were as follows. Single teams 20 cents each, double teams 25 cents, teams drawn by four horses 38 cents, neat cattle 10 cents per head, swine 4 cents, and sheep 2 cents, footmen 5 cents, for families hiring by the year, $3 per year. From the records of 1852, Jan. 1 to Sept. 1, the number of crossings were: double teams that paid at the time of crossing, 192, single teams 611, double teams paying by the year 532, single teams 1505, making the total number of crossings, in the 8 months, 2840, which will give some idea of the convenience, and necessity of the bridge.

      Although the earnings of the bridge is quite a sum annually, no dividend has ever been made, and the stockholders pay the same rates of toll as strangers. So much damage is done, every Spring, by the ice and water, that all the earnings are required to keep the bridge in tolerable repair, and many hundreds of dollars have been expended in labor and money by the stockholders and citizens, without fee or reward, to aid in keeping the bridge in repair, and making it passable in the Spring after the ice has gone out of the lake.

      I deem the above remarks due to the stockholders, as strangers often complain, at so high a rate of toll, with so poor a bridge, thinking perhaps that the earnings are divided among the stockholders, to the neglect of keeping their bridge in repair. Those who may chance to read this article, learning every cent of toll goes to make the bridge better, that the stockholders have never received a cent for their money invested, and have always paid the same rates of toll, charged to strangers, may be less disposed to find fault, and some of them pay their toll more cheerfully than they sometimes appear to do.

      In the Springs of 1865, '66, and '67, the water rose so high as to cover the entire bridge from 2 to 4 feet, and prevented crossing for many weeks each Spring.

      Dr. Nelson FAIRCHILD lost his life, while attempting to cross when the water was at its height, in the Spring of 1865. Dr. FAIRCHILD was a physician of great promise. He had been on to the Island to visit some patients, had crossed the bridge on horseback in the forenoon; as the wind had risen during the time he was on the Island, he was warned of the danger, and entreated not to make the attempt, but being young and full of courage, and having come over safely in the morning, he believed he could return; but the wind was blowing, and the surface had become so rough he could not see the bottom, and was obliged to let his horse pick out his way as best he could among the stones. When about half way over, his horse stumbled and threw him head-foremost into the water, and, as it is supposed, his head struck a stone, which stunned him so much, he made no efforts to get upon his feet, and drowned before he recovered from the fall. The water being only about 2 feet deep where he fell, he could have had no difficulty in recovering and getting upon his feet, if he had not been disabled. He was seen from the shore, and a boat hastened to him with all possible speed, but he was dead when the boat reached him. Some also thought he must have had a fit of some kind that disabled him from using ordinary efforts for saving his life. Thus perished a young man of marked ability in his profession, who had before him every prospect of a long and useful career, and whose apparently untimely death, was mourned by a large circle of relations, patrons, and friends.

      He was a member of the Masonic Fraternity, and was master of the lodge at Milton Falls, where he resided, and was buried with masonic honors. His funeral discourse was preached by Rev. O. G. WHEELER of this town, April 12, 1865, and I take the liberty of copying, from Mr. W.'s sermon, his closing address to the members of the fraternity:


      "I see before me the symbols of an order, with whose cherished mysteries our friend was familiar; of whose brotherhood he was an honored member. You have gathered together here to bury one of your members. The summons to this duty must have been a sad surprise. Slowly and solemnly will you proceed to the mournful service, time-honored and impressive. No more will this young brother need your friendly offices, though a sacred and gentle tie will bind you to the dear ones he leaves behind him. Not again will you meet him in your gatherings. The ties of brotherhood, by which you are bound together seem strong, abiding, and tender, and I can imagine with what emotions you will surround your young brother's last resting-place, now waiting to receive one suddenly hurled from the freshness and brightness of undecayed youth and manly strength. And as in your slow and solemn march, you cast into the grave the green emblems of a fadeless memory, bidding the beloved physician a last and loving farewell, your hearts will swell with grief that the sacred tie is broken, the earthly fellowship ended. 'Be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.' Mr. WHEELER's text on the occasion, was taken from Romans i. 33 -- How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out' "


SOLDIERS TO PUT DOWN THE LATE REBELLION.

      This town furnished its full quotas, amounting to upwards of 50 men ; 5 men, only, were furnished by draft, one man paid commutation, the others furnished substitutes. Several died from disease, a number were killed in battle, some were severely wounded. I shall give a short account of some who died, and others who were wounded, of whom honorable mention should be made.

      ZEBINA LANDON was a member of the University of Vermont at the time of his enlistment. He left the college at his country's call, and enlisted in the first Vermont cavalry; was made corporal; afterward raised to sergeant. During Bank's retreat was wounded and taken prisoner, and could have been paroled, but he refused to take any obligation not to fight again the enemies of his country. He was sent to Lynchburgh, then to Belle Isle, and afterward to Richmond prison. He suffered much from his wounds and disease, but more from starvation, He died at Richmond prison. Zebina was a young man of great promise, an excellent scholar, and the University conferred on him the degree of A. B., although he had not fully completed his full course of study.

      HENRY CONROE was a member of the same college (Vermont University.) He enlisted in the second regiment; was taken prisoner at Bull Run, and after a year of great suffering was exchanged; rejoined his regiment again, and passed through several battles; was severely wounded but recovered, and now resides in town.

      A.B. CONROE, his brother, enlisted in the Vermont Cavalry; was with Sheridan in the Shenandoah Valley; was shot through the chest, in one of the battles, and fell into the enemy's hands; was so badly wounded that he was left to die; was afterwards found alive, cared for, and, strange to say, after a long time recovered so as to go into business. These two brothers are now a mercantile firm, doing business in town, highly respected and esteemed in the community.

      ALBERT PHELPS was at the time of his enlistment a member of the Troy Methodist Seminary. PHELPS was taken prisoner in one of Gen. Grant's battles, near Richmond; was sent to Andersonville prison, and experienced all the horrors of that fiendish, infernal place; after 10 months of indescribable suffering was released. Returning home, he entered the University of Vermont, and graduated with the class of 1887.

      HENRY O. WHEELER, son of Rev. O. G. WHEELER, enlisted with his friend, Zebina LANDON. He was a member of the University, and left college at his country's call, enlisted in the Vermont Cavalry, Co. A. He was reported killed, during Banks' retreat; but was separated from his company, and, concealing himself, after a few days wandering, rejoined his regiment, and found his horse and baggage had been recovered and brought in. He was again reported killed, when Kilpatrick was driven out of Hagarstown. He, upon the contrary, succeeded in eluding the enemy, and was protected by Union friends and helped take care of a wounded comrade, Homer BLISS, who died afterward of his wounds, and, after six days, WHEELER again joined his regiment; participated in the various engagements of the campaign, was promoted to 1st lieutenant, and afterward to captain by brevet, for meritorious conduct. Capt. WHEELER was wounded in the Wilderness the first day of Gen. Grant's advance; was shot through the lungs; shared in the sufferings of the wounded on that memorable day, and finally reached Seminary Hospital, Georgetown. After a time he was brought home, but before his wounds were healed, returned to the field under Sheridan; shared in the victories of the Shenandoah Valley and was taken prisoner Oct. 7th. The rebel officer with his accustomed epithets, leveled his revolver and threatened his life, after he had surrendered. He was plundered; all his clothes taken off but his undershirt and drawers, and marched without food three days in this condition, and finally lodged in Libby prison. Less fortunate was his comrade. JONES, who was taken prisoner at the same time, and while being conducted to the rear, was wantonly sabered by a rebel, without his giving the least provocation. Capt. WHEELER was with him and received his dying message to his young wife, he left at home but a few months before, and succeeded in obtaining her miniature he had worn with him to the field, and brought it home to him comrade's widow.

      Capt. WHEELER was fortunate enough, while stripping off his clothes, to slip $50 in green-backs down his drawers undiscovered, and this procured him better fare than he otherwise would have been able to obtain. His wounds breaking out afresh, he was removed to more comfortable quarters, but could hear the tramp, tramp, tramp, of his fellow prisoners who were so naked and cold, they could not sleep, and were obliged to keep in motion, to keep from freezing. After a few months, WHEELER was exchanged and came home. He re-entered the University of Vermont and graduated in 1887.

      Some others were wounded, and died from disease, or wounds, and some returned and recovered. Charles LANDON, Peter TROVILLE, Noah MARTELLE, David MAYO.  MAYO lost an arm. These all draw pensions, according to their disabilities. Albert TAYLOR died of wounds, Bartorny LAWRENCE, wounded, died in Andersonville prison. Albert L. MARTIN, wounded at Gettysburgh, died of his wounds. Proctor LANDON, Antoine LAROSE died from disease, at Washington. Winfield Scott FLETCHER, severely wounded at Savage Station, was so disabled as to be discharged; Fredrick KEELER died from disease near New Orleans. Edwin PHELPS was wounded in the Shenandoah Valley; was taken prisoner, and with others put into a meetinghouse under guard. He concealed himself under the pulpit, and was not discovered when the other prisoners were taken away, and got back to our lines. This was the engagement when our forces had been driven hack in the absence of Gen. Sheridan, who, returning in the afternoon, rallied our men and gained one of the most splendid victories during his campaign.


OUR OYSTER SUPPERS.

      The people of this Island have two annual gatherings, or as we call them, oyster suppers, they have become so much an institution among this people, I think them worthy of notice in the history of the town.

      There is wealth enough to give our minister a generous support, notwithstanding our churches and societies are small; but our people have not been in the habit of liberal or generous subscriptions, for the support of the Gospel. Father LYON, as he is called, through the Island, was for many years minister to this people. His preaching was a gratuity except such presents as the people chose to hand to him (very much, as the writer thinks, to the injury of the people), and as his ministry was long continued, the habit became strong, of doing but very little for the support of this minister; and to this day, were it not for the profits of these gatherings, which are handed to the minister, their support would be very meager indeed. And here, I will remark, the churches in this town and Grand Isle are one organization and have but one pastor, for both towns. This is the case with the Congregational and Methodist churches. Rev. O. G. WHEELER now in the 29th year of his pastorate, and Rev. Simeon GARDENER, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, now in the 5th year of his ministry, having been here 2 years some 10 years ago, and now on his 3d year in Succession, are the pastors of the churches in both towns.

      But to return to our oyster suppers; we meet first in one town, then in about 3 weeks in the other, the profits one year in South Hero are given to Mr. WHEELER, the next year in Grand-Isle, and so alternating, with the Methodist pastor. The people in both towns make it a point to attend both gatherings; when South Hero people go to Grand-Isle, we are their guests, and they do the work, and when Grand-Isle people come here, they are our guests, and we do the work. The most kindly feelings prevail and a stranger would think from witnessing the interest felt for the minister, for whom the gathering is made, we must all certainly belong to the same church and society. Our ladies vie with each other in seeing which town shall set the best table. The result is our tables are not only loaded with everything to please the palate, but with much to please the eye, and set off with much artistic taste. An epicurean, on these occasions, would feel he had found an earthly paradise. The profits of each gathering are usually between $200 and $300, which is handed the next day to the pastor for whom the gathering was made. Rev. O. G. WHEELER, who has at times been both the statesman and poet, and always the good pastor and preacher, usually favors the audience with some poetical effusion, suited to the occasion. One called the Oyster Supper Medley, was published some years since, in a book of poems, by Mr. WHEELER. Another delivered at our annual gathering in Grand-Isle, February 1867, made such an impression on the mind of the writer, while listening to it as delivered by Mr. WHEELER, that he takes the liberty to insert a few of the closing stanzas, with the remark, that the reader to appreciate it, must have been there and heard it, or must picture in his mind the scene as it really was. We were assembled in the meeting-house, the cemetery near by, a deep snow covering the ground, driving and drifting over the graves of the near and dear friends and relatives, of those present. One family, near by, that had been in the habit of meeting with us on such occasions, at home watching over their honored dead (Hon. Lewis LADD) and preparing for the funeral solemnities, to take place in that house the next day, when they would lay their venerable father and friend, in his cold and snowy grave, -- our reader must picture this and he will feel in some measure as we did when we listened in almost breathless silence to the closing portion, so suited to the particular occasion, 


MR. WHEELER'S POEM.

And eons will talk of olden times, 
And some, perhaps, of other climes;
Relieving here, the teeming brain,
Of crowded thought a quickened train

That bears them backward to the days 
When hope was murmuring sweetest lays; 
To some, this feast will bring to mind 
The broken tie, that once was twined

So fondly round the Loving heart 
That even here, the tear will start; 
The eyes that oft have sparkled here 
Forever closed, though lying near.

Asleep, with all the multitude 
That broken sigh, or laughter rude 
Can ne'er disturb -- how silent they, 
While we are full of life and play;

They all are lying shrouded there, 
Silent as midnight shadows are;
The snow lies lightly on their graves, 
Bathed In the moonbeam's silver waves.

Under the snow-the drifting snow
The muffled rill is creeping:
Under the snow -- the drifting snow -
A weary world is sleeping: 

Under the snow -- the drifting snow --
No weeping, groaning, crying; 
Under the snow -- the drifting snow --
The dead, but not the dying:

Under the snow, the grasses rest
For summers bloom preparing:
Under the snow, their verdure blest,
The evergreens are wearing:

Under the snow, no canning art
Its tempting snares concealing; 
Under the snow, the broken heart
No bitter pang is feeling;

Under the snow, are frozen tears
Upon the pate cheek lying: 
Under the snow, the dear one wears
The smile she gave when dying:

Under the snow, the ivory brow
With silver locks is beaming; 
Under the snow, ere hidden now,
The golden ringlets, gleaming:

Under the snow, unfelt the thrill,
Of friendship's kindly greeting; 
Under the snow, the heart is still
That once with love was beating;

Under the snow, the sacred trust
By angel care defended:
Under the snow, the guarded dust
Will sleep till time to ended.




      Rev. O. G. WHEELER represented his town in the house of representatives and his county in the senate for several years, and was a working member in both branches of our legislature.


PUBLIC BUILDINGS, ETC.

      The public buildings in town consist of two churches -- Congregational and Methodist -- an Academy, town-hall and a public house at the corners -- the old tavern stand which has recently been purchased and fitted up by its gentlemanly proprietor, Mr. Clark S. KEELER, and is intended not only to accommodate travelers, but more permanent boarders who prefer to stop there rather than at the Spring House, which has been mentioned, in connection with the spring.

      This town is divided into 4 school districts where schools are taught from 3 to 5 months terms, twice a year. Our academical school is not sustained through the year. It flourished under the charge of Rev. O. G. WHEELER, who kept it in session for some years, and fitted a goodly number of young men for college, in this and from adjoining towns, who generally entered the University of Vermont. Mr. WHEELER has taken a deep interest in the educational affairs of the town, as well as in conducting and sustaining the high school for a long time. A sound morality and general intelligence prevails; and it is claimed that more newspapers are taken from our post-office, in proportion to the number of inhabitants, than from any other post-office in the country.


COL. EBENEZER ALLEN
by D. Webster Dixon.

      Col. Ebenezer ALLEN was born in Northampton, Mass., Oct. 17, 1743. His family was not connected with the family of Ethan ALLEN by ties of blood relationship, as has sometimes been erroneously stated, though there certainly was much in the personal characteristics of the leading members of both families to justify the assumption. When a child, after being christened by Rev. Jonathan EDWARDS, the celebrated divine, he went with his parents to New Marlboro in Berkshire County, where his father soon after died, leaving Mrs. ALLEN with a large family of small children and very inadequate means of support. Ebenezer being one of the eldest, was employed pretty constantly, we are told, at the "big and little spinning wheels" under the parental roof, and barely enjoyed an opportunity to obtain the rudiments of an education. He also served as apprentice to a blacksmith for a short time, but his early years were mostly devoted to farming pursuits. In 1762, he was married to a Miss RICHARDS, who survived him many years, and died on South Island at the age of 88. The Colonel and his wife were allied by blood and marriage with some of the first families in New England. In 1768, he moved to Bennington where he resided for nearly 3 years. His name appears among a large list of Bennington petitioners to the governor of New Hampshire in October, 1769. In 1771, he removed with his brother-in-law, Mr. Thomas ASHLEY, to Poultney, and commenced the first settlement of that town. One of his children (a son) was the first white child born in the town of Poultney. After a few months residence in that place be removed to Tinmouth, which had then reached an advanced stage of settlement.

      In 1775 Col. ALLEN was appointed captain of a company of minute men, which was afterwards made a part of Col. Samuel HERRICK's famous Regiment of Rangers, and participated with them in many sanguinary encounters and perilous adventures. On the 10th of May, 1775 Capt. ALLEN formed one of the party under Gen. Ethan ALLEN in the memorable capture of Ticonderoga. He was one of the delegates from Tinmouth to the general convention held at Cephas KENT's house in Dorset, Sept. 25, 1776, on which occasion certain resolutions were adopted substantially declaring the New Hampshire Grants "a free and separate district," and renouncing the authority of the New York government. He was also chosen one of the delegates from Tinmouth to the convention held at Windsor in July, 1777, that formed our first State constitution. After the dissolution of the convention he moved his family to Bennington. Aug. 16, 1777, was fought the decisive battle at that place, in which Capt. ALLEN bore a conspicuous part, -- signalizing himself by great bravery and efficiency both as a soldier and commanding officer. At one time during the engagement, he with only 30 men, under the cover of a natural breastwork of rocks, successfully contended against the main body of Col. Baum's troops of Burgoyne's army, causing great slaughter among them, and a temporary retreat.

      In the early part of September, 1777, Gen. LINCOLN, then in command of the frontier department, dispatched 1500 men froth Pawlet, in three divisions, to follow in the rear of Burgoyne's army. These divisions were commanded respectively by Colonels JOHNSON, WOODBURY, and BROWN. The forces of Cols. JOHNSON and WOODBURY were sent to attack Mt. Independence (Orwell), and Skeenesborough (now Whitehall). Capt. ALLEN's company were attached to Col. BROWN's division. Col. BROWN's forces were designed to attack Ticonderoga, Mount Defiance, Mount Hope, and one or two other strategic points of lesser importance, and to liberate 100 American prisoners in the hands of the British at Ticonderoga, and if possible, to effect the capture of the British flotilla at that place. Col. BROWN assigned to Capt. ALLEN the taking of Mt. Defiance, opposite Ticonderoga, which was considered an almost impregnable fortress, and was at this time defended by about 200 British regulars, with artillery. He accomplished this hazardous undertaking, with the assistance of Lieut. Isaac CLARK and 40 Green Mountain rifle rangers early on the morning of Sept. 18, 1777, by surprise, and without the loss of a single man. After performing this brilliant achievement, he rejoined Col. BROWN's division, which, with those of Cols. JOHNSON and WOODBURY, a few days later joined Gen. GATES's army investing Burgoyne's forces, and were in the action at Saratoga, Oct. 7, 1777. After the enemy's capitulation, Capt. ALLEN joined his family at Bennington, but subsequently returned with them to Tinmouth. During the latter part of this year he was for a time in command of a small detachment of State troops at Pawlet.*
 


* The following document issued by Col. ALLEN, while in command at Pawlet, is from the records of Benningtoo, verbatim, and serves to show what some of our ancestors thought of Slavery.
"Head Quarters Pollet
28th of November 1777.

     To whom It may Concern Know ye whereas Dinah Mattie, a negro woman with Nancey her Child of two months old was taken Prisnor on Lake Champlain, with the British Troops Some where near Col Gillner's Patton the Twelth day of Instant November by a Scout under my Command, and according to a Resolve Past by the Honorable Continental Congress that all Prisnors belong to the Captivators thereof -- therefore She and her Child became the just Property of the Captivators thereof-I being Conscienentious that It is not Right in the Sight of god to Keep Staves -- I therefore obtain Leave of the Detachment under my Command to give the said Dinah Mattis and Nancy her Child their freedom to pass and Repass any where through the United States of America with her Behaving as becometh and to Trade and to Traffick for her Self and Child as tho' She was Born free without being Mollested by any Person or Persons.

In witness whereunto I have Set my hand or sub.scribed my name.
(signed)    Ebenezer ALLEN, Capt."
      The record of Col, Allen's military service is far from complete. Aside from the details of his career already given, it is positively known that he was commander of the fort at Vergennes either in 1778, or the following year; and that he performed important and effective military service during the war, mainly on the western side of Lake Champlain While he resided on the Island he would relate to his guests (pointing towards Essex Landing, N. Y.), "With about the same number of Green Mountain Boys, I captured about 50 of the rear guard of the British army, on their retreat to Canada; also, their boats, horses, cows, goats, -- and I suppose all the equipage of Old Ti, and Crown Point." It was done, he said, by a ruse, representing .the woods to be filled with HERRICK's Rangers, who were known in English prints, as "white Indians;" and the presence of whom always struck a terror to the hearts of British troops. Prior to the retirement of Capt. ALLEN from the army he was made Major and Colonel in due succession.

      The precise period when Col. Allen dissolved his connection with the army cannot be determined from any documents to which I have had access. It is however probable that be may have left the service sometime during the year 1779, as the war in this section of the country was virtually closed at that date. At least, we have no testimony, historical or otherwise, to show that he performed any military service during the succeeding years of the Revolution. From 1779 to the early part of 1783, -- a period of 4 years -- Col. ALLEN's career seems involved in obscurity. It, is not wholly improbable that he may have resided in Tinmouth during this period, engaged in farming or some mechanical occupation, for if he had still been employed in the service of his country, it is reasonable to suppose that we should now find some record of such service. It is also a matter of some uncertainty as to the exact time when he came to the "Two Heros" and commenced its first settlement -- whether in 1779, or 1783, or in one of the intervening years. It appears that the Legislature of Vermont, Oct. 27, 1779, granted the township of Fairhaven, in Rutland County, to him and 76 associates, and that on the same date, the Legislature made him one of the grantees of the "Two Heros" -- comprising all the territory now embraced in the towns of Grand Isle, North and South Hero. Some authorities assert that Col. ALLEN commenced the settlement of the southern portion of the "Two Heros," Aug. 25, 1783. Many of the old residents, now deceased, who had preserved some traditionary accounts respecting Col. Allen and the first settlement, asserted that he came to South Island soon after the date of its charter.* 
 


* Hon. L. DEMMING and Dr. Melvin BARNET, to whose accounts of Col. ALLEN, published several years ago, I am indebted for many of the facts contained in this sketch. Dr. BARNES relates many anecdotes of the Colonel, of which only two or three are sufficiently interesting to be reproduced in this place.

      Acting as justice of the peace in the uncommon year of starvation, 1789, two respondents were brought before him for stealing something to eat, and the theft being fully proved, one being a man of some means, the Colonel in giving his judgment, expressed great chagrin, saying "the scarcity could be no excuse," as no one in such a case would have refused something to eat, and all persons in that settlement had a plenty for such use but this trial proved that there were those, though quite able, who had rather steal than ask, The Colonel intimated that he should fine -- not bind over -- the offenders. "Halt," said the counsel for prisoner: "your warrant is not signed, consequently your whole proceeding is a legal nullity." The Colonel deliberately took the summons, seeing for himself its defects, signed it, saying: "Now go to trial, everybody knows I'm justice itself!"

      When taking Fort Defiance, the cannoniers got at their guns, Swinging their matches, not knowing what to aim at, it being very dark; upon which Capt. ALLEN cried out with stentorian voice, "Shoot them rascals," his party at that time struggling by crevices of rooks and hanging by bushes to support themselves.

      On one occasion, the Colonel, who abhorred lying, said of one guilty of prevarication and falsehood, that "he deserved being sent from the face of the earth."  A bystander humorously asked the wrathy Colonel, "unless he killed the man, where he would send him!" The reply was "Hog Island," -- a part of Swanton of which the Colonel seems to have entertained a poor opinion.

     [In the letter of Dr. BARNES to Mr. STEVENS, already referred to, he says "In March 1783, the war being virtually ended, the Col. with Alexander GORDON and Enos WOOD (the same who represented North Hero in 1791 and who signed for the admission of Vermont and who also was sheriff of Franklin Co. when John GREGG his prisoner was drowned, A. D. 1798, (State Paper 1796 and Thompson 's Gazetteer page 90), traveled on snow-shoes from Tinmouth on the east side of the lake to St. Albans and crossed over westward to the two Heros, and chose, by drawing cuts, who should have the first location. The first choice fell to John WOOD, who chose where the ferry is kept between North Hero and Grand Isle. The Colonel and Mr. GORDON next drew, and the lot falling to GORDON, he chose on the north end of the South Island, what is now the Hon. Lewis LADD place. The Colonel having the third selection, chose 13 ½ miles off in an air line on the south end of the South Island. In a short time, he engaged boards to be ratted and brought down the lake, when open. In the meantime, to be more ready, he moved his family to Pottiers Point (now Shelburne Point). The lake being at length open, he made a raft out of the boards, with which he was to build his horses and barn, upon which he moved his family and stock to the Island and a Mr. E. DEWEL or a Mr. WRIGHT framed him a house.

     Alexander GORDON, Enos WOOD and his brother Solomon, and their families came on the same day and were spoken with by Allen off the south end of the S. Hero, but having further to go did not reach the north end till several hours after ALLEN must have landed, These four families were the first white settlers and had only the sand-beach for a floor, and boards to cover them, till they built houses and moved in.---Ed]
      Without attempting to reconcile these conflicting statements, I proceed to sketch the career of the Colonel as it has been transmitted to us in the published accounts of his life, and through the public records.

      Upon his arrival on the "Two Heros," he located on the south shore of South Hero -- afterwards designated as Allen's Point, -- where he built a frame-house and barn, he immediately went to work cutting and clearing the timber, and his progress was so satisfactory, that, the first year after his arrival, he raised small crops of wheat and corn. He rapidly improved his farm, and it is said that his succeeding crops were good. He evinced much skill as an agriculturist, and planted the first apple orchard on the "Two Heros." A year or two after his arrival, a son was added to his family, that he named after himself, and that dying soon, made the first birth and death among the white settlers of South Island. He also erected a blacksmith shop, and though not a very skillful mechanic, he did all kinds of blacksmithing after a sort.

      In 1787, he enlarged his dwelling, and opened the same as a public house.* [*It was probably at Col. Allen's tavern, where Prince Edward (afterwards Duke of Kent, and grandfather of the present Prince of Wales), with a numerous suite stopped one night In February, 1793, on his tour from Canada to Massachusetts.]  It was for many years a favorite halting place for the traveling public passing over the lake by way of the island, and a temporary abode for new settlers who came to the "Two Heros" to locate farms. In 1786, he commenced taking oak lumber to Quebec market, and pursued this business in connection with his other occupations, for 4 or 5 years; but in consequence of the great distance to market, with the time and expense attending its prosecution he did not find the business very remunerative. In 1792, Col. ALLEN, with a party of friendly Indians, [Col. Allen was familiar with the Indian language. and spoke several of their dialects with considerable fluency.] made a tour to the then unsettled territories of Ohio and Michigan, and was absent for nearly a year. In his travels, he visited the province of Upper Canada, and was so well suited with the soil and general features of that country, that, after his return home, many of his friends were induced to emigrate to that region. Col. ALLEN much desired to accompany them, but at the earnest solicitation of his family and personal friends, was dissuaded from his purpose.

      While a resident of South Hero, Col. ALLEN filled numerous civil stations. He was appointed proprietor's clerk after Mr. KNICKERBOCKER, and was the first town clerk after the organization of the town. He was also a justice of the peace for a series of years, and was repeatedly elected to fill various town offices. In 1788, he was chosen a representative to the legislature and thereafter until 1792 In January, 1791, we find his name recorded among the yeas for Vermont's admission into the Union, and her adoption of the Federal Constitution. During his term of service as legislator, he was a member of many important committees, and exercised marked influence in all the affairs of legislation.

      In 1786, the Abenaquis Indians, together with some of the, old French grantees of the lands on the south side of Canada line, claimed the country along the Missisquoi Bay and sought by force to dispossess the Americans from their occupancy of these lands. It having been decided by the Vermont authorities that the Indians and their French allies had forfeited their titles to the disputed territory, by their adherence to the British cause during the war, Gov. Chittenden appointed Col. ALLEN to "remove all unlawful intruders from the frontier with a military force," The Col. with a small detachment of troops, tarried for some time in the immediate vicinity of these disturbances, and succeeded in protecting the rights of the settlers for the time being. These troubles were not however wholly repressed, as the claimants persisted in their demands as late as 1788, and many serious encounters between them and the settlers occurred before tranquility was finally restored.

      In 1800, the Colonel removed with his family to Burlington, and opened a tavern near the south wharf. He continued to reside there until his death, which occurred March 26, 1806, in the 64th year of his age. His funeral was largely attended, and be was buried with Masonic honors in the general burial-ground in that place. The funeral service was performed at the court-house, and David RUSSELL, Esq., the Worshipful Master  of Washington Lodge, pronounced a brief eulogium upon the life, character, and public services of the deceased.

      Thus passed away one of the purest and bravest of that invincible band of patriots who flourished in our State during the critical period of the Revolution; and who staked their lives and fortunes, and braved the most dangerous enterprises for the independence of their country. In personal appearance and general manner, Col. ALLEN bore analogy to his eminent compeers Ethan and Ira ALLEN. He was of medium height, with a large head, in which the perceptive faculties were very prominent: black-eyed, dark-featured, deep-chested, and endowed with more than ordinary physical strength and activity. In religion, be was a Calvinist; in politics, a Hamilton Federalist. He was, in many respects a remarkable man. Nature had infused into him a vigor and vivacity of mind, which, in a measure, supplied the deficiencies of his education; and he exhibited the highest merit and capacity in the conduct of the most arduous affairs. Courage, enterprise and perseverance were the first characteristics of his mind. His disposition was frank and generous, though he possessed a combative temperament, and his sincerity and zeal, on some occasions, doubtless impelled him to disregard the behests of common prudence. But while he had many of the failings incident to humanity, his virtues were active and reliable; and his patriotic fidelity to the interests of his State and Country, justly claims a proper share of the wide and merited recognition which posterity has so liberally accorded to his illustrious contemporaries.


COL. ALPHEUS HALL. 
By MRS. CAROLINE H. SMITH.

      In the first settlement of Grand-Isle the people had very few privileges compared with other portions of the State. Being surrounded by water, their intercourse with the inhabitants of other towns was quite limited, having no regular mail established, but a post rider who made his appearance once a week, distributing his newspapers among the scattered settlements, consequently they grew up as it were a "kingdom by themselves."

      But among these were some very worthy people, whose memories have almost perished from among the rising generations; but whose names should be held in remembrance by those who have inherited their possessions, and by succeeding generations.

      Among these were Col. Alpheus HALL, who came to the place in the year 1778 or '79. Born in Connecticut in 1757, he removed to Castleton, with his father's family, a few years previous to the commencement of the war of the Revolution. From manuscript papers, to which the writer has access, we find that he went into the service of his country at the age of 18 years as a private soldier in the regiment commanded by Col. Seth WARNER; that he was with Gen. MONTGOMERY's army at the taking of St. John's, Montreal and Chambly; was at Saratoga and witnessed the surrender of Gen. Burgoyne, and marched to Ticonderoga with Gen. Ethan ALLEN. He participated in many engagements with the enemy in various places in the State, at the burning of Royalton, and at Castleton, when a scouting party sent out by Col. BAUM, attacked a congregation assembled in a schoolhouse for religious worship on the Sabbath. The women made their escape as best they could: but some 12 or 13 men stood their ground and fought with great bravery, till their leader, Capt. John HALL, fell mortally wounded, and they were compelled to surrender. He and an older brother were made prisoners of war. They were taken to Ticonderoga, where, under guard they were compelled to labor to strengthen the fortifications of the enemy. But in one month's time they succeeded in effecting their escape, while their guards were at dinner, and making their way to the lake shore, they procured a small boat in which they crossed over to Mount Independence, from which place they traveled on foot to Castleton, mostly in the darkness of the night. He says, when he arrived at home he found the family broken up, their property all destroyed by the enemy, and the house burned. He was left penniless, with nothing in the world but the poor clothing he bad upon his back. But his courage did not fail him. On his arrival at Castleton, learning that the enemy were advancing upon Bennington, he and his brother started immediately to join their regiment, but did not arrive in season to participate in the battle. I think that during his services in the war, he was not promoted to any higher office than orderly sergeant, although he acted as quarter-master some part of the time. Soon after the war he married and settled upon the farm in Castleton, but remaining there only a few years, he removed to South Hero, where he spent the greater portion of his later life. The subject of this sketch was then in the prime of life, and being an active man in society, be soon became a prominent leader in the political party to which he belonged, His mind entered largely into the spirit of politics, always taking a decided stand in favor of the true principles of republican governments. Previous to the war of 1812, there was organized, throughout the country, what was called the Washington Benevolent Society, an institution the object of which was to inculcate and disseminate those principles held and advocated by Washington in his farewell address to the people of the United States. On the organization of this society in Grand Isle County, Col. HALL was chosen president and held the office during its existence. That society embraced all the leading Federalists of the country, and whatever opposition it received from the opposing party, it retained its purity of principles and confident hope in the great future of our country. We can, in some measure, judge of the estimation in which he was held, that he was chosen to represent the town in the State legislature 8 or 9 years, 7 years in succession, from 1809 to 1816, during the period of the war with England, when the two great political parties in this country were striving for the mastery. Such was the state of feeling at the time, that families of opposing sentiments would hardly associate together. The excitement, in those days, was fully equal to any thing that has transpired since, save the great Rebellion. After the close of the war the party spirit subsided in a measure, and during President Monroe's administration, little opposition was manifested.

      After the Whig party was formed, he identified himself with that party, and was a zealous supporter of Adams, Henry Clay, and Harrison, whose inauguration he survived a little over one month.

      In 1833, he removed to Milton, Chittenden Co., where he resided till his death, April 19, 1841, at the advanced age of 84 years. In his earlier life, he did not enjoy those advantages of an education which later years afforded, but his mind was largely cultivated by reading. He was a strong advocate of the common-school system, which was established in the earlier history of the State. In his personal appearance he was gentlemanly and dignified, courteous in manner, and agreeable in conversation -- having many friends, and being fond of society. His house was ever open to the reception of visitors and strangers, and especially ministers of the Gospel. Even in his extreme old age, he maintained that gentlemanly bearing which insured him the respect of a large circle of friends. Many men in ordinary situations have risen to far higher official stations than he, but few, perhaps, in his circumstances, had enjoyed more of the public confidence, than he, in the town where he resided. His friends had conferred on him almost every office, both civil and military, which was in their sphere to confer. In his religious life he was an exemplary and consistent Christian. He became a member of the Congregational church in South Hero in 1817, under the pastoral charge of the Rev. Asa LYON, under whose preaching ho sat for nearly 40 years. They were warm friends during the period of their long lives, and in their deaths they were scarcely divided.


ISRAEL HALL.
(By Mrs. C. H. Smith of Milton,)

      Israel HALL was the 4th son of Col. Alpheus HALL, and was born at South Hero near the close of the year 1797. In his childhood he was noted for his great love of reading. At the age of 7 years, he had read through both the Old and New Testaments. He was a young man of good natural talents, with a quick perception of mind. At the age of 16 he commenced a collegiate course of study, under the tuition of Rev, Asa LYON, and at 18, entered the Freshman class of the University of Vermont, pursued his studies about 3 years, when he was stricken down by consumption, and at the end of 6 weeks confinement, died. During his college life, lie experienced a change of heart and purposes, which led him to look forward to the time when he should be enabled to proclaim those great truths contained in the Word of God. He united with the Congregational church in Burlington, then under the pastoral care of Rev. Mr. HASKELL. Thus early in life cut down, his expectations of future usefulness blasted, yet in the assurance of a blessed immortality. His last words were, "Come, Lord Jesus." He died in July, 1819, at the age of 21 years. At the next commencement, a funeral oration .at the public exhibition of the Junior class, was delivered by Royal Washburn, a classmate.  [Mr. Washburn afterwards became a settled minister over the Congregational church in Amherst, Mass.] 

EXTRACT FROM THE ORATION OF 
MR. WASHBURN.

      "We have seen what means this badge of grief! what that vacant seat! To us, alas! they are full of meaning. They tell us a friend, a fellow-student, a class-mate, is dead. They tell us the ingenious, the amiable HALL is cut down amidst all his flattering prospects, for his prospects were flattering. His talents were above the vulgar story -- and with them he united that persevering industry, which would have placed him on a superior eminence among the literati of his country. We have observed his rapid progress -- we have marked the unfoldings of his brilliant mind we have seen him among the foremost in ascending the rugged steps of science, or pursuing the more pleasing walks of literature -- the hope of his friends, beloved by all around him. We have also seen him fall a victim to death, and in one fatal moment all these expectations defeated -- and so many tenderest ties burst asunder. Well may friendship weep; for that breast which ever welcomed her entrance, and was alive, to her charms, no longer can feel her endearments, or reciprocate her offices. Eloquence, too, may mourn; for one has fallen who promised to hold a rank among her sons. Let religion also lament over the early tomb of him, who adorned her profession by his practice, and seemed destined to stand among her champions. Religion was his delight. In subserviency to this, he so zealously prosecuted his studies. Anxiously did he look forward to the time when he should become fitted to go forth as the publisher of her principles, and defender of her cause. Nor was his religion found in vain, -- her joys which had animated him in life, were also his solace and support in death."

“No further seek his merits to disclose,
Nor draw his frailties from their dread abode;
There they, alike in trembling hope, repose 
In the bosom of his Father and his God."

DR. BARNES' LETTER TO HENRY STEVENS

"Dear Sir, -- 

      I send Col. Ebenezer Allen's life, also Dr. ROEBUCK's as to the military strategy. First, when a child sitting on his knee he often related scenes well calculated to set my hair erect, but in riper years, not finding those acts mentioned in history I sank into absolute silence as to their relation, concluding my grand-parent when so nicely whittling that sword or gun to amuse childhood (though I generally thought him a man of strict truth), still under the overflowing influence of military monomania. Greatly exaggerated among his deeds, I am sure he mentioned one he performed against the British between Crown Point and Port Kent, on the Now York side, with about the same number of Rangers. The British retreating from " Old Ti.," Phineas LYMAN, Esq., of Burlington, Vt., (now living,) tells me lately the same story. It probably was the taking of the guard formally at Ti, and Crown Point, or something you by long lost papers can fully show. Samuel ROBINSON, and the same Ebenezer ALLEN could not have been on Grand Isle, any great number of years prior to 1763, if I have been by tradition rightly informed. The elder Samuel ROBINSON, father of Moses, Samuel and Jonathan, died in London, 1767. Could Ebenezer ALLEN have ever been on the Grand-Isle with him? It is possible, though I must doubt Ebenezer's leaving Berkshire County, Massachusetts, between 1763 and 1767 -- but documents must show.

      I have just returned from the examination of grains (30 in number) of a great black birch tree 12 1/2 inches in diameter grown in an old white oak stump four feet through; evidently under circumstances showing the oak tree (its stump was a long tithe ago sawn into staves) with numerous others adjoining, from which any one though assumptively would infer, allowing the oak stump to have stood 30 or 40 years without or before the birch began to grow, that it must have been cut by somebody 60 or 70 years since at a time which would agree well with the Colonel's absolutely moving on to the Island and lumbering in oak, A. D., 1783, or near that time.

      As to the second, Dr. ROEBACK, I send you one stanza of a song made by him at "Old Ti." A. D., 1778, under a pressure some one was to kill a deer on which to feast, another to make a mug of flip and the third, (the Doctor) to make the song; of course to be sung in a particular tune, required particular feet. I do not quote the stanza as being very poetical, but furnishing a specimen of the times.

Hurra ye Vermont Green Mountain Boys and Rangers, 
Not our enemies (in Roman languages strangers), 
But remember their defeat at old Bennington
And drubbing at the landing."

      I take the liberty also to send you the outlines of the life of Lieut. Allen mentioned in Hubbard's, I think, Indian war, as having been a captive among the Indians. The Lieutenant was blood uncle to Hon. Heman ALLEN a long-while member of Congress, who died at Burlington, Vt., about 1845.

      As to Rev. Asa Lyon's life, if you wish, call on his son Newall, living at Burlington, Vermont.

      I shall soon, if you wish, give the life of Joseph BOWKER, Chairman of the Convention declaring Vermont free, said to be living in the State of New York.

      Mr. Stevens, will you excuse the foregoing prolixity. 

Yours, Dear Sir,
MELVIN BARNES.
Grand-Isle, September 15, 1848.
 

NOTE. The Doctor used to repeat, as his, the song in the last part of Mr. Butler's address you gave me at Burlington."
 

MILITARY.

      Names of men credited to South Hero on the various calls made to soldiers to put down the late rebellion.

 
Peter A. Key
George Tracey
George Bean
Peter A. Key, re-en.
Henry W. Conroe
Nelson Baker
David Dillon
Bertrand A. Conroe
Winfield S. Fletcher
Michael Mercy
Henry H. Kibbe
Louis Troville
Charles C. Landon
Peter Troville
Proctor Landon
Albert Upton
Zebina Landon
George Bean, re-en. 
Bartney Lawrence
Abraham Mayhew, do.
Benjamin Martin
Albert B. Boardman
Orrin B. Landon
Thomas Martin
Abraham Mayhew
Antoine Larose
John Mayo
Henry Martin
Augustus Mercy
James L. Martin
Albert Phelps
Michael Mercy
Lucius L. Thonion
Julien Parott
Henry O. Wheeler
Luther Pixley
Abner B. White
George Lamson
Fredrick L. Keeler
Noah Martin
Hiram E. Ferris
Procured Substitutes
John Troville
Paid Communtation
David Mayo
Walter Martin
Benajah Phelps
Calvin McBride
Edwin Phelps
John B. Robinson
James Sweeney
Ralph T. Stinehour

      There were five other men whose names I have not credited to the town on the various calls.


NORTH HERO.
Poems by Maria S. LADD, -- Now of Anawacka, Minn.

[These poems which Miss LADD, in her delicacy upon this point, suppressed in her history of her native town, she has however by our special request kindly contributed, though not so as to add consecutively to North Hero, yet in time to give a poetical close to the fair little County of the Islands, of which she and her gifted sister, Mrs. WARNER, now also of the West, may be distinctively called the poet-daughters.-Ed]


THE FARMER.

He breathes the air of his scented fields,
With lilies and daisies rife,
And feels that his heart is young and glad,
And blest is his quiet life
In the sweet content of a little home,
And the smiles of a happy wife.

The voice of the birds that pipe all day,
And the robin's song at morn
As it skips about on the new-mown hay,
Or Scents at the tasselled corn 
Is sweetest music -- and so to him
Are the notes of the dinner-horn.

He likes the scent of the apple-buds
That nod o'er the creeping grass.
And the clover-heads that wave their caps
O'er the path he is wont to pass
To watch thc cattle graze on the hill
And he never sighs, alas!

With hat in hand, when the eve comes in, 
He nears the open door,
And lifting his hair from his moistened brow, 
He crosses the sanded floor,
And hoots the loam of the spinning-wheel, 
And his wile tell her profits o'er.

He gives to the poor with willing hand,
And prays for the nation's west;
He casts his vote for the righteous cause,
And his scorn he can't conceal
For the man who is cringing to other men,
Or dishonest in his deal.

And he quietly sinks to rest, at last,
For his name is little known,
Yet revered by those who miss his voice
When they sit by their hearth alone. 
His grace is mule by the village church,
"And the spat is marked by a stone."


THE FOOT BRIDGE
By Marie S. Ladd

Throughout the long hours of the day,
How many tread its yielding plank 
That safely bears them on their stay
Across the stream to either bank.

A motley throng in eager haste
To chase their phantom, though it flies; 
Once grasping it, they hope to taste
The blissful joys of Paradise.

And yet what thoughts beat through the brain,
In time with footsteps fast or slow, 
What hopes they carry in their train,
Or what unrest, we may not know.

Could all their fancies take dim form,
And hover in the ambient air,
How strange and sad an outward charm
That little quiet bridge would wear.

But to that bridge who will repairs;
And passing, leave, no other trace 
Than that which constant treading wears
Upon its hard enduring face.

Yet on our varied ways in life
We leave the marks where we have been, 
Disclosing in the restless strife
The silent path we tread within.



"The Vermont Historical  Gazetteer: 
A Magazine Embracing A History of Each Town, 
Civil, Ecclesiastical, Biographical and Military."
Volume II, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille & Orange Counties.
Including Also The Natural History of Chittenden County.
Edited and Published by Miss Abby, Maria Hemenway. 
Burlington, VT. 1871.
Page 570-586.

Transcribed by Karima Allison 2004