XX indexVermont  

 

 

 


EAST MONTPELIER lies in the central part of the county, in latitude 44° 17' and longitude 4° 25', and is bounded northerly by Calais, easterly by Plainfield and a small part of Marshfield, southerly by Berlin, from which it is separated by the Winooski river, and a part of Barre, and westerly by Montpelier and Middlesex.

      East Montpelier is the youngest town in Washington county, and at the same time one of the first settled. It was set off from Montpelier by the act of the legislature of 1848, and contains 18,670 acres -- a little more than four-fifths of the territory of the original town. There was a petition for this division, signed by the majority of the legal voters of the village, and a remonstrance to the measure, signed by the whole mass, in the part proposed to be set off, and a respectable minority of the voters in the village. Notwithstanding, the legislature passed the act and the division was made. The Green Mountain Boys have always been tenacious of their rights, and some who were thus arbitrarily set off at first exhibited a little warm blood. But time is a healer, and now both towns see that the division is a mutual benefit.

      The town has a hilly and uneven surface, but has very little, if any, wasteland. The soil is strong and rich, and produces bountiful crops. The town has no large villages, and agriculture is the leading industry. Grass is king, and the dairy takes the lead; but large crops of spring wheat, corn, oats, and potatoes are also raised. Nearly every farm has a fine sugar orchard, supplied with a convenient sugar house, and fixtures necessary for the successful manufacture of maple sugar. This industry is the source of quite a large income. The town is abundantly watered by numerous streams and springs, the largest of which are the Winooski river and Kingsbury Branch. The Winooski enters the town from the northwesterly corner of Plainfield, after draining Cabot and Marshfield, and flows in a southwest direction to the line of Berlin. In its course through the town it affords many fine water-powers, notably at East Montpelier village. Kingsbury Branch is the outlet of numerous ponds in Woodbury and several in Calais, turns the Sibley woolen-mills and other mills at North Montpelier, crosses the northeasterly part of the town, and joins the Winooski.

      The geological formation in this town are talcose schist underlaying the western part, a broad belt of clay slate in the central, and calciferous mica schist in the western part. Beds of limestone are also found in the central part of the town.

      January 1, 1849, East Montpelier was organized into a separate municipality by the election of the following board of town officers: Addison PECK, moderator; Royal WHEELER, town clerk; Stephen F. STEVENS, Isaac CATE, and J. C. NICHOLS, selectmen; A. PECK, treasurer and overseer of the poor; and J. P. W. VINCENT, constable.

      Clara DAVIS, daughter of Gen. PARLEY and Cynthia DAVIS, was born January 19, 1849, and was the first child born in town after the new organization. The first marriage ceremony was performed by Charles SIBLEY, justice of the peace, January 21, 1849, and the parties most interested in the ceremony were Rodney G. BASSETT and L. Amelia WILLARD.

      In 1880 the population of East Montpelier numbered 972 souls. In 1888 the town had ten school districts and maintained schools in nine of them. The whole number of scholars who attended school was 197, eleven of whom attended private school. The schools were taught by one male and fifteen female teachers. The male teacher received a weekly salary of $9.41 2/3J, and the female teachers received an average weekly salary of $4.70. The whole amount paid teachers, including board, was $1,242. The entire income for all school purposes was $1,410.17, and the whole amount paid for all school purposes was $1,520.22.

      EAST MONTPELIER (p. o.) village is pleasantly situated on the Winooski river, about one mile from the railroad depot on the Montpelier & Wells River railroad. It contains one meeting-house (Universalist), a school-house, store, postoffice, a saw-mill with planer and shingle-mill, a grist-mill, one feed-mill, a, blacksmith shop, several mechanics, and fifteen or twenty dwelling houses. This village in the past has suffered heavy losses by fire.

      NORTH MONTPELIER (p. o.) is located in the northeasterly corner of the town, on Kingsbury Branch, which furnishes the village an excellent water-power. It contains a pretty meeting-house (Universalist), the Sibley woolen-mills, grist-mill, saw-mill, store, blacksmith shop, and from twenty to twenty-five dwellings.

      The Sibley woolen-mills, G. F. SIBLEY, proprietor, are located at North Montpelier, on Kingsbury Branch, which affords a fine power, being the outlet of twenty or more natural ponds or lakes. The principal ones are located in Woodbury and Calais. The factory buildings were completed in 1840 by Col. Nathaniel DAVIS, Jr., and were operated by several proprietors, without much success, until 1849, when Mr. Walter LITTLE became its owner, and conducted it with fine success until his death in 1859. In the spring of 1880 Mr. SIBLEY came into possession of the property, and has run the mills to their full capacity and with fair success to the present time (fall of 1888) Mr. SIBLEY is manufacturing white flannels of fine quality, which command ready sale. He consumes over 50,000 pounds of wool annually, and gives employment to twenty-five hands.

      Hollister's mills, erected by Horace HOLLISTER in 1855, and now owned by his son, Martin V. B. HOLLISTER, are located in the village of North Montpelier, on Kingsbury Branch, which furnishes a constant and ample power. The mills are supplied with three runs of stones, and are celebrated for making an excellent quality of flour, and have ground for customers 10,000 bushels of wheat in one year. These mills also do a large business in grinding corn and feed. Their capacity for grinding is not less than 500 bushels per day. In connection with the grist-mill Mr. HOLLISTER has a saw-mill, where he does a considerable business in sawing hard and soft wood lumber.

      J.S. WHEELOCK's mills (just erected) are located oh the Winooski river, in the little village of East Montpelier. The mills are furnished with the best modern and improved machinery. Mr. WHEELOCK is a manufacturer of experience, and will furnish all kinds of lumber and shingles. Builders can have jobs in dimension lumber manufactured to order on short notice. The grist-mill will be ready to grind corn and feed for customers, and those who wish to purchase flour, feed, and grain will find Mr. WHEELOCK ready to supply their wants.

      Gen. Parley DAVIS, son of Nathaniel and Sarah DAVIS, was born in Charlton, Mass., March 31, 1766. He received a good English education at the academy, in the town of Leicester, which included a knowledge of land surveying. He came into town with his cousin, Col. Jacob DAVIS, for the purpose of assisting in the original survey of the town, and soon rose to principal surveyor of the town and county. It was while thus engaged that he located his pitch of 300 acres in the center of the town, and then covered with a growth of stately maples and very little undergrowth or brush. Here he thought he foresaw the seat of the most populous village of Montpelier, and the location for transacting its business. His anticipations, so far as the seat for town business were concerned, were fulfilled. He built on his place a commodious house, in which the town meetings were held for many years, and afterwards in the basement of the Methodist meeting-house, up to the present. In all the interests of his town he was an active and influential participator. For the success of the common schools, the education and welfare of the young people, and in establishing a town library, he was found the most active and liberal. In 1790, at the organization of the first military company in the town, he was elected captain, and rose by rapid promotions to the position of general in 1799. He held many of the important offices of trust in his town, and was its representative in the legislature of 1799, and was again reelected. In 1794 Gen. DAVIS married Rebecca, daughter of Col. Stephen PEABODY, of Amherst, N. H., a Revolutionary officer, and especially distinguished as one of the most active field officers under Gen. STARK at the battle of Bennington. Miss PEABODY was a sister of Dr. PEABODY, with whom she had studied and practiced, mainly in surgery. After her marriage her reputation for surgical skill brought to her the unfortunate from all parts of the state. She not only acted well her part in society, but diffused blessings to the sick and afflicted. General and Mrs. Parley DAVIS were parents of seven daughters, and in their education these enterprising parents liberally patronized the academy at Montpelier. Gen. DAVIS died April 14, 1848, at the age of eighty-two years. Mrs. DAVIS died February 5, 1854, aged eighty-three years.

      Jonathan CUTLER, a pioneer settler, located his farm in the woods where Mrs. Eliza A. CUMMINGS now lives, and where he afterwards resided until he died. His son David married Abigail CARROLL, and settled adjoining his father. He never moved, and died there November 21, 1840. Only three of his ten children are now living, viz.: Philura (Mrs. Samuel TEMPLETON), a widow residing in Calais; Leonard, a bachelor, who resides on Berlin street in Berlin; and Laura L. (Mrs. Augustus F. BATCHELDER), a widow, who resides on a farm in East Montpelier.

      John TEMPLETON and Solomon DODGE came from Peterboro, N. H., to East Montpelier, in June, 1788, and selected adjacent lots for their future homes. Mr. TEMPLETON selected the place where his grandson Austin TEMPLETON now lives, and Mr. DODGE located on the farm where his youngest daughter, Mrs. J. R. YOUNG, resided. They commenced to fell the forest at once, but soon after returned to Peterboro to do their haying. After that was accomplished they spent the remainder of the season on their lots in East Montpelier, clearing land, and in building each of them a log house. In the following spring, March, 1789, they returned with their families and made East with Col. DAVIS at Montpelier; but as soon as practicable they wended their way through the snow two feet deep, to their cabins in the wilderness, five miles away. On their arrival at their destination Mr. TEMPLETON found that the bark roof of his log cabin had in part been blown away or crushed by the weight of the snow, so that the snow was nearly as deep inside of his house as outside. They had no other alternative but to clear out the snow, build a fire, and repair damages at their leisure. And on this farm Mr. and Mrs. TEMPLETON spent the remainder of their lives. Mr. and Mrs. DODGE also occupied their farm until the close of their lives. Thus began the first permanent settlement in East Montpelier. All of that season, until in the fall, when Col. DAVIS had completed his grist-mill, they were obliged to carry their flour and meal from the nearest mill, at Williamstown, on their backs, a distance of twenty miles.

      The next year, 1790, Jonathan SNOW, the third settler, moved into town. Until then their nearest neighbors were the family of Col. DAVIS, five miles distant. Mrs. TEMPLETON often said that for a year, lacking only one day, she saw no woman except Mrs. DODGE and her sister, Jenna TAGGART, who lived with her. Mr. TEMPLETON died May 18, 1813, aged forty-eight years. The children of Mr. and Mrs. TEMPLETON were John, Jr., Samuel, Miles, James, Hiram, Paul, and a daughter who died in childhood.

      John TEMPLETON, Jr., was born in Peterboro, N. H., May 18, 1784, and was nearly five years old when his parents settled in East Montpelier. He died February r, 1855. He married Lorany WHITE, who was born July 10, 1785, and died May 3, 1879. Mr. TEMPLETON was the oldest of the family, and his father was in poor health. In winter, when he was nine years old, he drew hay alone, with one ox, from the beaver meadow two miles away. He was a farmer and also teamed to Burlington, Montreal, and Boston. He settled estates and was often a referee. The children of Mr. and Mrs. TEMPLETON were Polly, born May 12, 1803; Nahum, born May 18, 1805; Mary Ann, born December 31, 1806; Lucy, born November 25, 1809; John, born August 28, 1811; Fanny, born November 24, 1814, died August 9, 1854; Samuel, born April 10, 1816, died May 12, 1875; Hiram, born June 1, 1817; James, born January 29, 1822, died September 22, 1842; and Charles Clark, born September 10, 1826. Of these Hiram and Charles Clark now reside in Montpelier. Hiram married Miss Mary A. VINCENT, January 2, 1845, who was born August 11, 1824.

      Hiram TEMPLETON has always been a farmer, and by his untiring industry, superior management, and sound judgment, has saved a competency. He is universally respected, and an honest man. Their children are Mrs. SPARROW, residing in the neighborhood with her husband, and Lee, who is engaged in farming with his father. Charles Clark TEMPLETON married Phebe S. VINCENT, March 24, 1852, who was born October 2, 1826, and is a farmer in the neighborhood of his brother.

      Samuel TEMPLETON, son of John the pioneer, was born in Peterboro, N. H., November 15, 1783, and was only four months old when his parents settled in East Montpelier. He died on the homestead which his father had cleared, at the advanced age of eighty-nine years seven and one-half months. Although he always resided in the same place, he had resided in four counties and two towns. Mr. TEMPLETON was a reliable citizen. His children are his son Austin, who succeeds him on the old homestead, and his daughter, Mrs. James M. HOWLAND, of Montpelier.

      Maj. Nathaniel DAVIS, brother of Gen. Parley DAVIS, was born in Oxford, Mass., November 25, 1769. He was a man of great energy and comprehensive business ability. In 1789 he came to East Montpelier, bought a farm in the northeastern part of the town, and at once commenced to clear it. In 1792 he married Dolly DAVIS, of his native town. The next year he built a saw-mill on his farm, and before 1800 was doing a large mercantile-business and manufacturing potash. About 1810 he commenced the village of East Calais by building there a grist-mill, saw-mill, nail and scythe factory, and opening a store. Later this property passed into the possession of his sons-in-law, Shubael WHEELER and Samuel RICH. His daughter, Mrs. N. C. KING, was as generously remembered. In 1825 Mr. DAVIS, in company with his son, bought farm after farm, and were farmers on a large scale, and marketed more than 100 beef cattle yearly. In 1838 they built the woolen-mills at North, Montpelier, which proved an unsuccessful enterprise. Mr. DAVIS died in 1843, aged seventy-four years.

      Jonathan SNOW, born in Rochester, Mass., July 12, 1768, married Lydia HUNNETT, of Middleboro, February 11, 1790. She was born August 18, 1771. In 1789 Mr. SNOW came to East Montpelier, then Montpelier, and worked for Col. DAVIS. In the fall he located his farm where his youngest son, Alonzo SNOW, now lives, cleared about an acre, built a log house, and returned to Massachusetts. Immediately after his marriage, in February, he started for his wilderness home with an ox-team, and brought his wife and goods. His was the sixth family in town. In time a frame dwelling took the place of the log cabin, where Mr. SNOW carried on the double occupation of farmer and shoemaker. At the breaking out of the War of 1812 he enlarged his house by the addition of another story, and opened it for a tavern, which he continued with success about twenty-eight years. He died at the home where he first settled, March 31, 1846. Mrs. SNOW died March 31, 1843. Their children were Hannah, Polly, Charity, Barnabas H., Abner H., Mark, Avis H., Horace, Elias S., Nancy, Jonathan, and Alonzo. All are dead except Alonzo, who was born September 2, 1811, received a common school education, and has been twice married, first to Ruby BASSETT, October 2 who was the mother of all his children. At- the time of his marriage he purchased and, settled on the homestead, and added to it until he owned 150 acres. Mr. SNOW has been a hard worker, and has the name of being the most industrious man, in town. About thirty years ago he displaced the old two-story dwelling, and erected in its stead his present fine house. In 1876 he built a new set of convenient barns, and is now enjoying the fruits of his industry. Mrs. SNOW died June 2, 1859. June 12, 1862, he married his present wife, Mrs. Sarah (SHORTT) AINSWORTH, who was born November 4, 1819. His children are Alonzo J., born October 4, 1840, who resides in Chicago; Fred M., born August 10, 1845, who resides in his native town; and Mary R. (Mrs. George E. HOLLISTER), born February 24, 1858, whose husband is an enterprising farmer in Marshfield.

      Benjamin I. WHEELER was born in Rehoboth, Mass., September 19, 1766. He settled at Montpelier, now East Montpelier, about the year 1790, on the farm where he lived until his death. His father and grandfather were named Philip WHEELER. He was one of a large family, two brothers of which came to Montpelier at an early date and lived to an advanced age. At the organization of the town of Montpelier, in 1791, he was elected one of the listers and one of the highway surveyors, and the same year town grand juror. In 1792 he was elected selectman, and held that office sixteen years previous to 1818. In the spring of 1793 he married Huldah FRENCH, of Attleboro, Mass. They had five sons and five daughters, all of whom lived to maturity except three sons, who died while quite young. He died March 7, 1845, His wife died February 8, 1856, aged eighty-four years. Royal WHEELER, second son of Benjamin I. and Huldah (FRENCH) WHEELER, was born at Montpelier, now East Montpelier, December 15, 1799. He taught school in young manhood, but adopted farming as his occupation for life. He was selectman from 1831 to 1836, several years moderator of town meetings, representative to the state legislature in 1838 and 1839, and state senator in 1852 and 1853. At the organization of the town of East Montpelier, in 1849, he was chosen clerk, which office he held until 1855. October 31, 1827, he married Lucy, daughter of Parley and Rebecca (PEABODY) DAVIS, born at Montpelier, now East Montpelier, February 5, 1802. He died March 4, 1874, and she September 16, 1878, both at East Montpelier. They had two children, viz.: Benjamin I., born September 12, 1828, now living at East Montpelier; and Sarah D., born November 18, 1835, who died August 14, 1884. Royal WHEELER was mentally a strong man. He was active in promoting the educational and religious interests of his town, an eminent and faithful public officer, an honest, upright businessman, and a generous and valuable citizen. His son Benjamin I. is a man thoroughly well informed, a great reader, often asked and always ready to give information to his neighbors, and is one of East Montpelier's most reliable citizens.

      The PECKS of Montpelier and East Montpelier were descended from Joseph PECK, who was in the twenty-first generation from John PECK, of Bolton, Yorkshire county, England. It is said that the genealogy of the PECKS has probably been traced back farther than that of any other Vermont family.

      Nathaniel PECK came to Montpelier from Royalston, Mass., in 1790, and cleared the farm still owned and occupied by his descendants. His brother Hiram came about the same time and settled on the farm next south, now owned by Enoch H. VINCENT. Like several other of the early settlers, viz.: John TEMPLETON, Duncan YOUNG, and Solomon DODGE, Nathaniel married one of the daughters of James TAGGART. His first wife was Jane TAGGART, by whom he had several children, of whom only Mary and Laura grew to maturity. Mary died, unmarried, in 1877, and Laura married Stephen WRIGHT, of Berlin. The second wife of Nathaniel PECK was the widow of Remember CARPENTER, of Barre, nee Phebe SMITH, formerly of Rehoboth, Mass. The children by this marriage who attained majority were Addison, Russel, and Sharlock. Nathaniel PECK was a man of integrity and religious principle, a member of the Methodist church, and for many years class-leader of that society in this town. He belonged to the order of Free Masons. His early struggles in clearing and settling a farm in the wilderness were similar to those of other pioneers. He drew a brass kettle from Brookfield on a hand sled, and went there to mill, one ox ahead to break the road, followed by another with grain on his back. He died April 10, 1827, aged sixty-two years.

      Addison PECK, oldest son of Nathaniel and Phebe PECK, was born September 6, 1807, and with the exception of two years spent his whole life on the farm where he was born, and his history for over forty years is closely identified with that of his town and county. With no schooling outside the district school of seventy years ago, except a term or two at the academy in Montpelier, he early fitted himself as a teacher, and taught winters for several years in the towns of Montpelier and Waterbury, working hard on the farm during most of the year, as his father, after an illness of some four years, died when Addison was in his twentieth year. He chose law as his profession, and studied law a year after attaining his majority; but in accordance with his widowed mother's wishes he gave it up and consented to remain on the farm. But nature had eminently fitted him for public work to which he was constantly called. He was captain of the cavalry company, 5th Regiment and 4th Division of the state militia, receiving his commission from Gov. William A. PALMER, in April, 1833. He was constable and sheriff for years after 1835, represented the town of Montpelier in the legislature in 1842 and 1843, and was high sheriff for Washington county for three years, beginning in the fall of 1846. After the separation of the town in 1848 he was the first town treasurer of East Montpelier, and the first overseer of the poor, elected in 1849, holding the offices for three years, when, in 1852, he left town, being absent two years. In 1860 he was again overseer and agent, retaining the offices for years. He took the census in ten towns in Washington county in 1860, and was state senator for this county in 1862 and '63.

      Interested in politics, a Democrat before the civil war, but ever and always for the Union, he was an ardent laborer in the Union cause during the war, acting as recruiting officer from the fall of 1863 to the close of the war, speaking often at the war meetings, sometimes making, from his own purse, little additions to the soldiers' bounties. He was a natural and easy public speaker, often called upon without any previous notice, and always ready.

      In all measures for the public good he heartily cooperated. Well versed in laws relating to ordinary business, and for nearly half his life justice of the peace, he was constantly called upon to make out legal documents, and give advice on legal questions, which with the settlement of estates and frequent calls to more public work at political meetings and conventions, made his life one of constant labor. As a man he was generous and kind hearted, an obliging neighbor, and a friend of the poor. Many a time did he pay the debt that saved the penniless debtor from jail or redeemed for him his last cow. Hundreds of dollars spent in this way were never recovered. He married, in 1837, Mary Hammond DODGE, daughter of Solomon DODGE, Jr., and his wife, Rebecca HAMMOND, and granddaughter of Solomon DODGE and his wife, Mollie TAGGART. In his wife he found a helpmeet indeed. Called so much from his farm work, that must have suffered but for her clear head and skillful management. After a trying illness of more than five years Mr. PECK died, September 22, 1881, and his wife, after his death, faded year by year, and died March 13, 1888. Only four of their children lived to maturity, all of whom, following in the steps of their ancestors, took up for a time the vocation of teaching. The youngest daughter died in 1872.

      John Howard PECK, son of Addison and Mary PECK, was born March 8, 1843, and died November 30, 1879. He was a cadet at Norwich in 1862 and 1863, and received from that university the degree of Bachelor of Science. He graduated at Dartmouth Medical College, October 31, 1866, and commenced practice in Concord, Vt., in January, 1867, and subsequently followed his profession successfully in St. Johnsbury, Derby, and Janesville, Wis., leaving the last named place after a brief stay, to care for his invalid father and the affairs of the family, spending the last three years of his life in his childhood's home. He was twice married, first to Hannah M. BAILEY, of Hartford, who died a little more than a year after marriage, and afterwards to Florence BATES, of Derby. He belonged to the order of Free Masons, and helped organize a lodge at West Concord, Vt., himself being its first Master. What was said of him in life may not be out of place in this sketch: "He was a well read and skillful physician, a courteous gentleman, and a reliable business man."

      Hiram married Wealthy KILBURN. He was one of the first selectmen of the town of Montpelier, in 1791. He removed to Waterbury, and from there to Parishville, N. Y., where he died in 1831, having filled offices of honor and trust in the towns where he had resided. In 1806 the father of Nathaniel and Hiram, John PECK, came in old age with another son, Squire PECK, from Royalston, Mass., and settled on the farm of Nathaniel, who built a framed house for him, which is still standing in a dilapidated condition across the road from the present residence. John PECK had been a prominent man in the town from which he moved. He was for years a school teacher, and also something of a poet. His poem on Universalism, an ingenious Calvinistic production, was published in 1813, and republished by John P. JEWETT & Co., in Boston, in 1858. The original manuscripts of several long poems are in the hands of his descendants. His wife was Mary DROWN. Their graves in the little grave-yard on the farm where they spent their last days are marked by the old-fashioned slate head-stones, bearing their names, ages, and verses he himself composed. He died March 4, 1812. Squire PECK settled on the farm, a portion of which, including the buildings, is now owned by Sharlock PECK, just north of the house which Nathaniel built for their father. He married Elizabeth GODARD, and was the father of one of Vermont's most illustrious men, Gov. Asahel PECK, who was three years old when the family moved to Montpelier. There were seven children, one of whom died young, and another son who died in 1838. The three daughters moved to Hinesburgh and died there. The eldest son, Nahum, was a prominent lawyer in Hinesburgh, with whom Asahel studied law. Both in their youth pored over their books by the light of the old fireplace in their home on the hill, and both took their turns as teachers in the district schools in the vicinity. Nahum married, first, Lucinda WHEELER, of this town, by whom he had one son, Cicero PECK, of Hinesburgh. She died in 1854, and he afterwards married Marcia WOOD, of Keeseville, N. Y. He died in Hinesburgh in 1883, aged eighty-six years. Before the house are two elegant elm trees, one of which in Asahel's boyhood sprang up in the brush fence that separated the door-yard from the highway, and the other he set out with his own hands where it stands to-day to speak of the boy who, by his own earnest efforts, rose from this humble home to the first place in the state. Studying and teaching in the common schools, he fitted for college in the Washington County Grammar school, entered the University of Vermont, studied French in Canada and law in Hinesburgh, and in 1833 removed to Burlington, where he spent his professional life. The eminent Rufus CHOATE, on his first acquaintance with Mr. PECK, was surprised to find such a lawyer in Vermont, and urged him to go to Boston, assuring him he would there win fame and fortune. But he preferred to remain in Burlington. It has been said "that no man in New England since judge STORY has equaled Judge PECK in his knowledge of the common law of England and the law of equity. His fame belongs to the state, and East Montpelier can only claim the honor of nurturing the early forming season of his life and character." He was judge of the Circuit Court from 1851 until December, 1857; judge of the Supreme Court from 1860 to 1874; and governor for the term 1874-76. He lived on his own farm in Jericho, May 18, 1878. His life was blameless, and his last words, sublime as his life had been, were to his brother: "I hope to and have no fears but that I shall fare well before and in the hands of the great judge." The home of Squire PECK was next occupied by Russel PECK, who died in September, 1877. His only son, Charles M. PECK, born here December 7, 1843, is now a wholesale merchant in Morrisville, of the firm of H. A. SLAYTON & Co.

      Clark STEVENS was born in Rochester, Mass., November 15, 1764. He was drafted as a soldier at the age of eighteen, and served a few months in that capacity, near the close of the war for our independence. At the close of the war he shipped from the port of New Bedford, in the capacity of a seaman, and spent a few years in the whaling and coasting service. On one occasion, while in the discharge of his duty as a sailor, he narrowly escaped drowning. This perhaps led him to leave the perils of the sea, and adopt the quiet occupation of a tiller of the soil. In 1790 he emigrated to the forests of Montpelier, purchased and cleared up the fine farm where his grandson, Thomas B. STEVENS, now lives, and where he spent the remainder of a long and useful life. After he had made proper preparation for such an important event, by clearing several acres and building a comfortable log house and barn, he returned to the place of his nativity, and December 30, 1792, married Miss Huldah FOSTER, also of Rochester, Mass., and immediately brought his bride to his humble cabin. Mr. CLARK seems to have been early in life inclined to a religion, and lived it in spirit, without forms and show. He with some of his neighbors united and formed a society of Friends, and with their aid he built a log meeting-house, on the bank of a little brook, on his farm, and near his house. Here this little band of congenial worshipers, under his leadership, established the first altar for public worship in Washington county. He cheerfully became their instructor, and on horseback frequently rode a distance of nearly one hundred miles to attend the monthly meeting of which he was a member. On these occasions he had established his ability as a speaker and faithful laborer. In 1815, at a convocation of the Starksboro Association of Friends (or Quakers), he was acknowledged as a regular and accepted minister of the gospel. In this capacity he traveled hundreds of miles yearly, to attend monthly and yearly meetings. The little band in Montpelier prospered, increased, and built a commodious meeting-house, about half a mile from the first humble structure. In the unstability of the affairs of earth this band of informal worshipers one by one have come and gone, the "old meetinghouse" is dilapidated, and no society of Friends now exist in East Montpelier. Clark STEVENS is described as "a prince in appearance, but a child in humility, and one of the finest looking of men. Full six feet high and finely proportioned, dark eyes, thoughtful, sedate countenance, his presence was dignified and imposing." He was a man of superior intellect, and well balanced. But it was his great and good heart that made him conspicuous, and in truth he was a great man. The reason that he did not hold public offices was simply because he declined firmly to accept them. He died at his home, November 20, 1853.

      Elisha CUMMINS was born in the town of Ward, Mass., in 1768. He came to East Montpelier, then Montpelier, in 1790 or 1791, and settled permanently on one-half of a lot of land adjoining his brother, John CUMMINS. He spent one or two seasons on his place clearing land, and built a log house. He then returned to Massachusetts and married Miss Rachel EDDY. They set out for their wilderness home with all their household goods on one load, not omitting the woolen and linen spinning-wheels, indispensable articles in all the pioneer families. With the aid of his prudent and very efficient wife, who was most truly a helpmate, they soon surrounded themselves with an abundant supply of all the comforts of well-to-do farmers. They never moved, but lived on the place where they first settled to the close of their long lives. Mr. CUMMINGS died in the fall of 1860, aged ninety-three. Mrs. CUMMINGS died seven or eight years before her husband, aged eighty-four years. They were of the old school type, industrious, honest, and upright. Mr. CUMMINGS adopted the motto "Pay as you go," and owed no man; never was sued, nor never sued any man. He gave liberally to the church of his choice, and was the obliging neighbor and reliable citizen. Mr. and Mrs. CUMMINGS impressed their children, whom they give a good practical education, with their own correct principles. They reared a family of nine to mature age, viz.: Joel, who was a farmer, settled in Middlesex, and died aged about seventy-six years; Sophia, who was a teacher, and the weaver for the family, died at the age of thirty-six years; Oren, who settled about a half mile from the old home, was noted for inventive genius, produced several articles of practical value, and also raised very fine cattle, and carried off many premiums at the county fairs. Only one of his sons, Timothy S. CUMMINGS, resides in this town. He is now a farmer, but has been a railroad engineer. He inherits from his father fine mechanical genius. Avery was a successful farmer on the homestead, until the death of his father, and afterwards on a farm in that neighborhood. He died at the age of about seventy-five years. Amasa CUMMINGS married Lucy HOLBROOK, and is a successful farmer. He has a fine farm, where he settled about 1835. He has a son, Lawson C., in California, with his permanent home in St. Paul, Minn. He is an extensive dealer in monumental and ornamental marble. His only daughter, Elsie (Mrs. G. A. BRUCE), and her husband reside with her aged father. Elmira resided on the homestead, and died at the age of seventy-three years. Lorinda (Mrs. BOWEN) is a widow, and resides in Montpelier. Luman and Lucius CUMMINGS were twins, and were born on the homestead, March 10, 1812. Luman spent most of his life on the home farm, but died at the home of his twin brother. Lucius united in marriage with Lucina, daughter of Benjamin ELLIS, and on their wedding day went to housekeeping on the farm where they now live. Their children were Luman L., born April 30, 1847, died April 6, 1870; Walter S., born December 28, 1848, died May 7, 1867; and Edgar A., born February 6, 1853. The latter received his education at the common schools and the Methodist Seminary at Montpelier. He is a farmer, and is giving efficient aid to his aged father. Lucius CUMMINGS, like his father and brothers, abhors debt, and "pays as he goes" In religious sentiment he is liberal, and an attendant at the Unitarian church. In politics he is a decided Republican, but is not an office seeker. He is a careful and constant reader, when not engaged in his business, has gained a practical education, and is quite proficient in mathematics.

      Nathaniel CLARK came from Rochester, Mass., and settled in East Montpelier, then Montpelier, in 1792, and made the first settlement in town on the east side of the Winooski river, where he died in 1810. He was father of two sons and four daughters, viz.: George, Sally, Lovisa, Lucy, Charles, and Adaline. George CLARK, son of the pioneer Nathaniel, was born in Montpelier in 1794, on the farm settled by his father, and lived there his entire life. He died July 18, 1881, aged eighty-six years. He married Betsey MILLER, of Bridgewater, Vt. They were parents of six children, three of whom arrived at mature age, viz.: George H., Nathaniel M., and Salvin C. Nathaniel M. is the only survivor, and was born on the old homestead which he still owns, and where he lived until 1863, when he moved to the farm where he now resides, in Plainfield. December 25, 1859, he married Catherine A., daughter of Junius B. and Sarah (HOLBROOK) DAVIS, of East Montpelier. Their children are C. Murray, born January 15, 1861, in the same room of the old home where his father was born; and Genevieve, born December 16, 1865, and in the same room of the DAVIS mansion where her mother was born. In the barn on the CLARK homestead is stored about one-fourth of a ton of hay cut and put there by Nathaniel over seventy-five years ago, and which retains its brightness to this day. C. Murray CLARK resides on the old homestead.

      Samuel RICH, whose ancestors emigrated from England and settled in Sutton, Mass., about 1683, was born in Sutton, Mass., February 24, 1769. December 1, 1790, he married Margaret MCCLOUD, who was born in Greenfield, N. H., May 9, 1772. In 1792 Mr. RICH emigrated from Sutton to Fast Montpelier, then Montpelier, purchased a tract of 700 acres of wild land on Kingsbury Branch, including the village of North Montpelier and its excellent water-power. His first labor was to cut down the forest and clear a place for his house and a saw-mill, which were built near each other. Mrs. RICH used a tool-chest for a table when they partook of their first meal at their forest home. Mr. RICH was a farmer and. mechanic, and a man of sound mind, good judgment, and possessed great energy. In 1795 he built a grist-mill, -- the first in the place, -- and built several of the first houses. He was the proprietor of a saw-mill, grist-mill, carding machine, fulling-mill, a brick-yard, and distillery, and conducted them all. The little village that he built up was for many years known as Rich's Hollow; but it is now known as North Montpelier. In 1804 he built his large and elegant two-story residence, on the hill that overlooks the little village below, opened it for a tavern, and continued to live there until his death, September 26, 1826. This old homestead has not passed out of the hands of the Rich family. The house was thoroughly repaired by its present owners in 1881. His granddaughter, Ada M. RICH, married George KELTON, April 20, 1878, and they now own the mansion and farm. Long may it stand as a monument to the worth and ability of its builder, Samuel RICH! The anniversary of our national independence was celebrated here July 4, 1812, when a whole ox was barbecued and the dinner was served in the shade of the trees in the front yard, where convenient tables had been placed. It was a happy and joyful occasion, and closed in the evening with music and dancing by the rustic belles and beaux for miles around. Mr. and Mrs. RICH reared nine children to mature age, all of whom are dead except their third son, aged eighty-seven, and a daughter, aged seventy-three years. They dispensed a liberal hospitality: no man, woman, or child went from their door hungry.

      Dennis NYE came to Montpelier, now East Montpelier, from Rochester, Mass., in 1794, and settled in the northeast part of the town, where he resided until his death, about 1850, aged eighty years. He married Miss Betsey GRAY, daughter of John and Mary GRAY, pioneers of the town. Mr. NYE was always a farmer after he came to Montpelier. He brought means sufficient to pay the small price of two dollars per acre for his farm of 108 acres, which he lived to convert from a wilderness into cultivated fields. Mrs. NYE survived her husband about thirteen years. They reared four sons, viz.: William, who never married, went to Ohio, but soon after removed to Columbus, Ind., where he was a successful teacher many years, and where he died; John, who married Betsey, daughter of Samuel and Margaret RICH, settled on the NYE homestead, where he lived from his birth until his death, about 1880; Ezekiel D., born July 3, 1812, who married Sarah M. H. GUY, of Peacham; and George G., born June 26, 1815, who married Elsie C., daughter of Dr. Nathaniel C. KING, of East Montpelier. In 1842 the last two named brothers formed a copartnership under the firm name of E. D. & G. G. NYE, and commenced the manufacture of reed organs, which they continued about -forty years. Their organs are of the finest construction and tone, had a general local sale, are highly prized, and are in the homes of many of the families of this and surrounding towns. The children of Mr. and Mrs. E. D. NYE are Edward B., a piano tuner at the Miller piano manufactory in Wakefield, Mass.; and Harold E. and Ellen J., teachers of organ, piano, and violin at Malden, Mass. Mr. E. D. NYE was chosen by his townsmen as their representative in 1861 and 1862, and has served also as selectman. The children of Mr. and Mrs. G. G. NYE are William G., postmaster and general merchant at North Montpelier, and Edith F. (Mrs. John WILLARD), of East Montpelier village. Mr. G. G. NYE has served as selectman, and as justice of the peace about fifteen years.

      Samuel MCKNIGHT, born September 1, 1774, came to East Montpelier and worked for Maj. Nathaniel DAVIS a season or two, then cleared a small piece of land, built a log house, returned to Sutton, Mass., his native town, married Miss Anna PUTNAM, February 15, 1795, and set off immediately for his wilderness home in Montpelier with an ox-team, which brought his bride and their household effects. He installed her mistress of his log cabin on the farm where his grandson, Mr. Edwin P. MCKNIGHT, now lives, and where they spent the remainder of their lives. After they had been in Montpelier a few years they visited friends in Massachusetts, making the journey in the same manner as they came, with a yoke of oxen. Their children were Sally, born October 7, 1795; Clara, born July 17, 1799; Putnam, born November 16, 1802; and Allen, born April 22, 18o6, who died May 4, 1810. Putnam married Margaret HOLMES, January r, 1828, and settled on the homestead where he was horn. He was a man of general information, a great reader, and had a good and practical education. In early life he taught school; at more mature age he was selectman and lister of his town, and sometimes contributed articles for publication in the local papers. He died June 7, 1883, and had lived to celebrate his golden wedding. Mrs. MCKNIGHT still survives. Their children are Sarah (Mrs. Christopher BROOKS), born August 12, 1829, who resides in this town; Clara, born March 1, 1837, who married William C. VINCENT, is now a widow, and resides on the homestead with her brother; and Edwin P., who married Mary L. COLE, of Rome, N. Y., and resides, as before mentioned, on the homestead, which he owns.

      William HOLMES, born in 1772, came to East Montpelier, then Montpelier, as near as can be ascertained, in 1795, and settled in the northeast corner of the town. He took an interest in military affairs and was a captain of militia, a man of great energy and warm sympathies, ever ready to help whenever he had an opportunity. He died at the early age of forty-one years, and without an enemy. He married Margaret COMINS, of Charlton, Mass., and their children were John, born May 25, 1797, who died about the same time as his father, of a malignant typhus fever, in 1813; William, who died on the homestead; Harriet, who married Alvin MCKNIGHT, and died March 23, 1838; Margaret, born in 1803, who married Putnam MCKNIGHT, and resides on the MCKNIGHT homestead, and is the only surviving member of the family; Horace, born June 1, 1808, who was a farmer, had several locations, and died in Marshfield, in April, 1878; and Edwin, born December 27, 1810, who was a merchant about twenty-five years, and of the firm of BANCROFT & HOLMES, of Montpelier. He had an enviable reputation, and died in Montpelier, May 17, 1871.

      William HOLMES, Jr., born on the HOLMES homestead, February 26, 1799, received his education in the common schools of North Montpelier village. He married Diana STEVENS, May 19, 1836, who was born July 18, 1812, and commenced housekeeping on the farm where he was born. He was always a Democrat, and always used his influence to advance the interests of his party. He was an industrious farmer, and loved his family and home. Mr. and Mrs. HOLMES had nine children, four of whom died in childhood. Those who lived to mature age are Harriet (Mrs. Alvin CATE), who died at the age of forty-one years, and left an interesting family of eight children. Ellen married Stephen GREELEY, and about four years after their marriage Mr. GREELEY bought the HOLMES homestead, and Mr. and Mrs. HOLMES had a home with them. Mr. GREELEY died April 12, 1882. Mrs. GREELEY still resides at the home, and has two children, William and Mertie Ellen. Charlotte (Mrs. Whitney DAVIS) resides in Marshfield village. Sarah (Mrs. Austin FOSTER) resides on a farm in her native town. Mrs. Kate R. MORSE resides with her sister, Mrs. GREELEY. Mr. William HOLMES died July 8, 1884, aged eighty-five years. Mrs. HOLMES survives, aged seventy-five years.

      Theophilus CLARK, born June 18, 1766, came with an ox-team to East Montpelier from Massachusetts, in February, 1795, and settled in the southeast corner of the town, on the farm where his grandson, George H. CLARK, now resides. He located on lands adjoining his brother, Nathaniel, who had preceded him about two years, and when making his first clearing or opening in the woods boarded with his brother. He in time cleared up his farm of 100 acres, built comfortable buildings, where he resided until his death, on Thanksgiving day, 1859, -- the seventieth anniversary of his wedding day, -- aged ninety-three years. He married Susannah ELLIS, November 26, 1789, who died a few years before her husband, aged eighty-six years. His oldest son, David Dennis, died in Marshfield, at the advanced age of eighty-six years. His son Theophilus, born on the homestead, April 29, 1802, married Philura SPARROW, April 10, 1839, settled on the homestead, and provided for the wants of his aged parents in their declining years, and where he also spent his long life. He died December 27, 1881, aged nearly eighty years. Mrs. CLARK survived until June 14, 1884, aged sixty-eight years. Mr. CLARK was a reliable citizen, a good neighbor, honest, and industrious. He reared seven children to mature age, and all are now living, viz.: Orlana (Mrs. Ira D. MEARS) in Barre. Orlando, born March 8, 1842, married Caroline HATHAWAY, March 15, 1865, who was born March 22, 1843. They went to housekeeping immediately after their marriage, on the farm where Mr. CLARK now resides. Mrs. CLARK died July 26, 1837. Their children are Alpha B. and Anna M. Fanny (Mrs. Edwin H. FOSTER) resides in the northern part of the town. Theophilus is a farmer in the northern part of his native town. Betsey resides with her brother Theo. George H., before mentioned, resides on the old homestead. Elsie also has a home with her brother Theo.

      Sylvanus MORSE was born in Marlboro, Mass., in 1765. He married Jemima FORBUSH, and in June, 1797, came to East Montpelier and located a farm of 150 acres where his grandson, Eri MORSE, now lives. His first work was to clear the land and plant a patch of potatoes, from which he harvested forty bushels. He cleared six acres, and then built his log cabin and returned to Massachusetts. He set out with his wife and family in midwinter, with an ox-team, and arrived at his woodland home in February, 1798, after a journey of six weeks. In religion Mr. MORSE was an active Methodist, and was one of the foremost in building the meeting-house at the Center. He also gave liberally for the support of this church. He died universally respected at the great age of ninety-two years. Mrs. MORSE was over ninety-two years of age at her death. Their children were Polly, who married Daniel BASSETT, and settled on a farm which included a part of what is now East Montpelier village; and Cyrus, who was born May 14, 1797. The latter married Miss Lavinia LYMAN, of Duxbury, and remained on the homestead to the close of his life. Like his father he was a zealous Methodist, and gave liberally to all its financial interests. He died on the farm where he had spent his entire life, February 22, 1886, aged nearly eighty-nine years. Mrs. MORSE died about ten years earlier. Their children were Sylvanus, born December 30, 1826, and Eri, born November 11, 1828. Sylvanus married Lorinda T. LELAND, of Grafton, Mass., and settled on a part of the MORSE farm and adjoining the old home, where he resided until his death, in April, 1872. His wife survives and resides in the village of Montpelier. Their son Forest E. has purchased the farm of his late father. He united in marriage with Miss Lulu JOHNSON, June 2, 1886. Eri MORSE has been twice to California, where he spent about ten years, engaged in the mines, in milk business, and raising cattle. In March, 1863, he married Esther A. MCDERMOTT, of Middlesex, and now, as before mentioned, resides on the homestead, which has been continuously owned by the MORSE family since its first occupancy in 1797. Mrs. Eri MORSE died March 6, 1881. Their children are Arthur E., who resides in Winona, Minn., and Theresa L., who resides with her-father.

      Nahum KELTON was born in Warwick, Mass., in January, 1778. He came to Montpelier in the fall of 1798, and spent the ensuing winter in the employ of Col. Jacob DAVIS. The next spring he returned to Warwick, and soon after went to Schoharie, N. Y., and spent about three years in teaching public schools. About 1800 he returned to Montpelier, and in 1809 married Fanny, daughter of Dr. Philip and Eunice VINCENT, and settled on the farm where his son Truman C. now lives, and where he remained until his death, in 1857. He taught school in New York and Vermont thirteen winters. As early as 1810 he was elected deputy sheriff and served six years, and was constable the ensuing seven years. He represented the town of Montpelier in the state legislature in 1816, '17, '18, and '20, and again in 1829, and also held other offices. He was the father of two sons, Samuel Stillmnan and Truman C., both of whom are now living. Samuel S. KELTON was born on the homestead in October, 1810. March 10, 1838, he married Ursula SPRAGUE, and settled on the farm in East Montpelier, where his son Francis P. now lives, and where he resided nearly forty years. He now resides in Montpelier village. Judge KELTON has held nearly all the offices in his town. He has been justice of the peace thirty-five years, town treasurer sixteen years, served as selectman, and was assistant judge of Washington County Court in 1861 and 1862. He has settled many important estates, some of which have involved him in litigation; but he has never had a law suit on his own account. His son Francis P. was horn where he now lives, in May, 1841. He married Joanna COLBY, of Newbury, and is now an enterprising farmer and stock breeder. Dwight H., son of Samuel S. KELTON, was born in October, 1843. He was educated at Norwich University, especially in military tactics and mathematics. In the late war he served as captain of a colored company, and held some important positions that required ability and skill. At the close of the war he entered the regular army as second lieutenant, and now holds a captain's commission. On account of broken health he is now on the retired list.

      Truman C., son of Nahum and Fanny (VINCENT) KELTON, was born on the homestead where he now lives, May 11, 1817. At the age of sixteen years he commenced the trade of mason, and followed it a portion of the time, in summer, for the next thirteen years. The remaining part of his time was occupied on the farm. June 3, 1846, he married Emeline E., daughter of Joel and Ruby (METCALF) BASSETT, who was born September 28, 1823. Their children are George, born September 28, 1848, who married, April 20, 1878, Miss Ada M. RICH, and is a farmer on the RICH homestead at North Montpelier; Herbert, born June 28, 1850, who married Mary A. WHEELER, March 22, 1882; Henry, born October 20, 1351, who married Flora H. COBURN, June 21, 1877; Fanny, born June 22, 1854, married Arthur D. COBURN, October 15, 1878; Walter, born May 17, 1857, who died June 12, 1858; and Edwin, born July 4, 1860. Truman C. KELTON is a very prominent and influential citizen of East Montpelier, and by his honesty and integrity won the confidence of his townsmen in his early manhood, which, by a correct life, he deservedly retains. He has served as selectman and lister, for the last nineteen years has been justice of the peace, town clerk since 1863, treasurer since 1877, and represented his town in the legislature in 1863 and 1864.

      Jonathan Stanley DODGE, son of Ebenezer, Jr., and grandson of Ebenezer, the pioneer of Marshfield, was born in Marshfield in 1800. He married Sabra KELTON, and settled in his native town, where he spent his entire life, dying in August, 1873. Mrs. DODGE was born in 1804, and survived her husband until January, 1878. Mr. DODGE was well informed, a great reader, and especially a fine Bible scholar. In religion he was liberal, and a firm believer in the final salvation of the entire human race. He was a prominent and influential member of the Universalist church and a liberal contributor to all its interests. The children of Mr. and Mrs. DODGE were Elminia, Corrilla, Ira C., Merrill, Lovell, Harry, Olive, and Mary. Ira C. DODGE married, first, Laura C. BLISS, who was mother of his only child, Gertrude (Mrs. Benjamin BUZZELL), who resides in Middlesex. Mrs. DODGE died April 16, 1873. Mr. DODGE married, second, Miss Susan TEMPLETON, daughter of William TEMPLETON, Jr., and resides on the Gove farm, near East Montpelier Center. Mr. DODGE has a silver dollar (Spanish milled) earned by his grandfather by working one week, barefooted, at clearing land of brush, when he was a small boy. The coin is to be handed down to the oldest son of each succeeding generation.

      Joseph COBURN, or Lieutenant COBURN, as he was always called, was born in 1775, and came from Charlton, Mass., to Cabot, Vt., in 1803. He was a clothier by trade. He died of typhus fever at the time of the epidemic in 1813. Although but thirty years old when he died, he was called the richest man in town. He left a widow, who died several years afterwards, two sons, Larnard and Joseph Leander, and four daughters, viz.: Sally, who married Dea. CARTER, of Peacham; Clara, who married Andrew EDGERTON, of Cabot; Lucy, who married Ira BARNES, of Randolph; and Mary, who married James GRIFFEN, of Peacham.

      Larnard COBURN, oldest son of Joseph COBURN, was born April 8, 1800. Soon after the death of his father, in 1813, he came to the northeastern part of Montpelier (now East Montpelier) to one James ALLEN's, to whom he let himself until he was of age, being only thirteen at the time of his arrival. He was to receive $100, and have four months in the winter to go to school or work at some trade. He gave Mr. ALLEN $30 to risk sickness, leaving him $70 when twenty-one to add to the small property left him by his father. He attended school all except two winters, these being spent at the clothiers' trade. It was about this time when going to school to Daniel P. THOMPSON that the latter advised him to study law, thinking him specially adapted for the profession ; but Mr. COBURN left the law to be taken up by his youngest son, Lewis, and he himself took to cultivating the soil instead. He married Lovisia, only daughter of James ALLEN, in 1823. Mr. Allen's parents came from New Bedford, Mass. For nearly two years Mr. COBURN worked at the clothiers' trade. December 2, 1824, he came back to Montpelier and bought about fifty-seven acres adjoining his father-in-law's farm. This he made the nucleus of one of the best farms in town. By three other purchases he increased this small piece of land to over 230 acres. He demonstrated the fact that a farm can be made to pay, for from it alone he payed not only for the land itself, and as much more for improvements, but also accumulated considerable property besides. March 26, 1866, he sold his farm to his second son, J. Leander. After that he lived part of the time with his children and part in Plainfield. He died at his daughter's, Mrs. Dwight HOLLISTER, in 1872. His wife died a short time before at his son's, Hon. James A. COBURN, of East Montpelier. He lived nearly as possible a private life, neither seeking nor wishing for public honors. He was content with his family and farm. He was temperate in all his habits, and perfectly upright in all his dealings. He, represented the town in 1857 and again in 1858. He had six children -- four-boys and two girls. West Allen, the first, died when about two years old. Flora S., the wife of Dwight HOLLISTER, of Marshfield, was born March 26, 1826. James A. was born April 6, 1828. T. Leander, born January 16, 1830, died April 6, 1888. Susan A., wife of C. C. EATON, of Montpelier, was born January 17, 1832. Lewis L. was born November 2, 1833.

      Major J. Leander COBURN was born in 1810. He graduated at West Point, was soon promoted to the rank of captain in the regular army, and participated in the Mexican war. After the war he was stationed in Texas for ten years. During the time he married a lady from Kentucky, first cousin to. Gov. MCCRARY, of that state, and second cousin to Henry CLAY, the statesman. They never had any children. At the breaking out of the civil war he resigned and came home to Vermont. After staying there a few years he went to Washington, D. C., for a short time, then moved to Chicago, where he has since lived. In President Johnson's administration he was given, the rank of major. Since then he has been only a private citizen of Chicago.

      Hon. James A. COBURN, the oldest son of Larnard COBURN, was born April 6, 1828. He received a common school education, taught school winters for a number of years, and married Abbie B., daughter of Arthur DAGGETT, of East Montpelier, in 1850. In 1855 he bought out Mr. DAGGETT's interest in his farm, the latter after a little time removing to a farm in Barre. Mr. COBURN has carried on this farm since that time. He has been honored with many of the offices in the gift of his townsmen. He served as justice of the peace several years, represented his town in the legislature of 1869, the last annual session in Vermont, and again in 1870-71, the first biennial session. In the fall of 1878 he was elected an assistant judge of Washington County Court and reelected in 1880. Since then he has declined public office. The children of Mr. and Mrs. COBURN are Larnard C., born April 2, 1852, married Carrie BENNETT, of Calais, and resides in Fulda, Minn.; Arthur D., born August 31, 1855, married Fanny KELTON, daughter of Truman KELTON, October 15, 1878, and is a farmer in his native town; Flora H., born June 25, 1858, married Henry KELTON, June 21, 1877; James Lee, born November 3, 1859, resides in Dakota; and Dwight H., born September 15, 1861, died, when quite young. Mr. COBURN is a Republican, and believes in a government "of the people, for the people, and by the people." He is also a man, of sterling integrity, a fair dealer, and highly respected by a large acquainttance. He is an extensive reader, well informed, and a fine and natural mathematician, which is a distinguishing talent of the Coburn family.

      J. LEANDER, second son of Larnard COBURN, was born January 16, 1830, and received a common school education supplemented with a few terms at an academy. Most of the time until he was twenty-five years old he worked on his father's farm, except several winters, when he taught a common school. In 1853 he went to Chicago, then the "far West." Here he was employed for awhile, as clerk, by Marcus D. GILMAN, late of Montpelier, and was other wise engaged until March 6, 1859, when he married Caroline A., daughter of Dr. Daniel CORLISS, of East Montpelier. The next year Mr. COBURN exchanged his lots in the city for a farm near Elgin, about thirty miles from, Chicago, where he lived five years, and sent the milk of his dairy to Chicago. In 1865, at the earnest request of his father, he sold his farm and bought the homestead, and returned to East Montpelier, his old home, where he spent the remainder of his life, although he moved twice. He died April 6, 1888. He was Master of the Grange of his town several years. He held several town offices, represented his town in the legislature of 1876-77, and in the last few years of his life settled several important estates. Mr. COBURN was a Republican in his political faith, a citizen of sterling integrity, kind and generous in his feelings; and frank and manly in bearing he possessed the friendship and respect of the leading men of his section, and was a representative, farmer in Washington county. By his industry, perseverance, and admirable management he accumulated a fine fortune for a farmer. In the closer relations of the home circle, as husband and father, he was loving, attentive, and devoted. In bestowing his property there was no favoritism. His children shared alike. His family is composed of his widow, who has been his companion twenty-nine years, and their daughter Laura B., born October 17, 1860, and their sons F. William, a farmer, born August 24, 1862, who married Sarah CATE, of East Montpelier, March 14, 1886; and Lewis D., born May 11, 1865, who graduated at Tufts College in the spring of 1888. Their son Curtis L., born December 16, 1867, died August 10, 1881.

      Lewis L. COBURN, born November 2, 1833, graduated at Barre Academy in 1855 and at the University of Vermont in 1859; attended the Harvard. Law School two years, and was admitted to the Boston bar. He went at; once to Chicago, where he has since practiced. He has made patent right law a specialty. He started by buying out one Mr. Gray, who had a small law practice, for $500. At once his law practice commenced to increase, and doubled year by year until now it is among the largest in the city of Chicago, his income being between $50,000 and $75,000 yearly. At the breaking out of the civil war he came back to East Montpelier and entered the army as a volunteer, and was chosen captain of his company. Like the rest of the COBURNs he has never taken a very active part in politics. He has been offered a representative's seat in Congress, but refused it, preferring to attend to his profession.

      Arthur DAGGETT, of English descent, came to East Montpelier, then Montpelier, a little before 1800, and settled where the late J. Leander COBURN lived, and where he died at an advanced age. He left three sons, Arthur, Stephen, and Simeon, and one or more daughters. Simeon settled on the homestead with his father. Arthur and Stephen located at East Montpelier, then Quaker Village and for many years Daggett's Mills, built the first saw-mill in the place, about 1800, and later Arthur DAGGETT, with Richard KENDRICK, built a saw-mill and grist-mill on the site now occupied by J. S. WHEELOCK. Arthur DAGGETT married a widow WEST, and had born to him two sons, viz.: Arthur, born in 1804, and Freeman, born in 1807. Arthur married Nancy FARWELL, was a farmer, and reared one child, Abbie B., who was born January 30, 1831, and is the wife of Judge James A. COBURN, of East Montpelier. Freeman DAGGETT married Calista INGALLS, of Barre. He was a successful general mechanic, and could turn his hand to any trade, the most delicate work or heavy machinery. By his skill he accumulated a fine property. He left one son, George DAGGETT, who resides at Winooski and inherits his father's mechanical genius.

      Dr. Daniel CORLISS was born in Bradford, December 16, 1802. He graduated at Castleton Medical School in 1827, and practiced at Marshfield two years. October 29, 1829, he married Caroline T. TAPLIN, of Corinth, granddaughter of Col. John TAPLIN of the British army. He then settled in East Montpelier and practiced there until his death, October 17, 1850. He left a widow, and two children, a son and daughter. The widow died six years afterwards. William, born January 28, 1831, died in California, September 2, 1878, leaving only a widow. Caroline A., born October 9, 1834, was the wife of J. Leander COBURN, late of East Montpelier. Mr. CORLISS was a man- of strict integrity and a strong Methodist.

      Nathaniel ORMSBEE, born in Warren, R. I., emigrated to Montpelier, now East Montpelier, as near as can be ascertained, in 1800, and located on a farm is the wilderness where his son Joel T. now lives. He and his bride lived with a neighbor, Mr. POPE, a few months, while he made a small clearing and built a small house, and then settled on the farm where he resided the rest of his long life. He died May 7, 1857, aged eighty-four years. His wife was Sally MERRILL, a native of Worcester, Mass. She survived her husband until December 21, 1861, aged eighty-two years. They enjoyed a married life of fifty-five years, and were parents of ten children who attained mature age, viz.: Thomas J., Jonas G., John A., Joel T., Sally (Mrs. Joseph PARKER), Relief (Mrs. Elias WAKEFIELD), Jesse S., who was in the late war, Lewis, Louisa (Mrs. Dr. TOWN), and Lyman W. Joel T. ORMSBEE married Mary PARMENTER, and settled on the old homestead where he was born, and where he still resides.

      Eseck HOWLAND, son of John, was born in Middleboro, Mass., September 15, 1760, In 1778 he married Phebe SEARS. They early emigrated to Plainfield, Vt., purchased a tract of land and went to housekeeping, two miles from the nearest neighbor, and sixteen miles through the forests to the nearest grist-mill. He was a successful farmer. Later he moved to East Montpelier, where he spent the remainder of his long life. He died September 15, 1841, aged just eighty-one years. His wife survived him until May 30, 1846. They were parents of six children. His son Eseck, born probably in Middleboro, about 1793, married, first, Rhoda HOLT, and second, Laura HOLDEN, settled in Barre, where he resided until two or three years before his death, when he went to East Montpelier to reside with his son George, and where he died in 1872. Mrs. HOWLAND survived until 1874, and also died at the residence of her son George. George, son of Eseck HOWLAND, Jr., was born in Barre, March 18, 1831, and married Angeline BUZZELL, April 19, 1859. In April, 1866, he moved from Boston to East Montpelier, where he now resides. He is a farmer and auctioneer. He represented his town in the state legislature in 1882, and has served as selectman two years, lister five years, constable ten, and deputy sheriff one year.

      Susan CLARK, daughter of Theophilus CLARK, Sr., was born in Rochester, Mass., February 20, 1793. Her second birthday was celebrated on board of the ox-sled, en route from Massachusetts to Montpelier, Vt. In February, 1812, she married Jeduthan DOTY and resided on a farm near the site of East Montpelier depot, where she died. Mr. DOTY died at the home of his only daughter, Orlana (Mrs. M. D. WILLARD).

      Capt. Stephen FOSTER married Miss Mary KING, sister of Dr. Nathaniel KING. They came to East Montpelier at a very early date, from Massachusetts, on horseback, riding the same horse, and settled in the wilderness on the farm where his grandson, Edwin H. FOSTER, now lives. He commenced clearing his farm at once, and soon built a saw-mill, which was a great advantage and convenience to the pioneer families. He took quite an interest in military affairs, and received the title of captain. He was also active in all the affairs for the advancement of the society in which he lived, and especially aided with his money and influence the society of the Universalist church, of which he was a very worthy member. He died on the place where he first settled, aged seventy-seven years. Mr. and Mrs. FOSTER were parents of four sons and four daughters. His son Henry D. married Sarah G., daughter of Joel BASSETT, and settled on the homestead, and cared for his parents in their declining days. He was an industrious and prudent man, loved his family and home, where he was very generally found. He was also appreciated by his townsmen, and held the offices of selectman and representative. Mr. FOSTER dlied July 27, 1884, aged sixty-nine years. Mrs. FOSTER died February 1, 1888, aged seventy-one years. Their children are Julia A. (Mrs. William H. GLADDING), who resides in Barre; Edwin H., who married Fanny M. CLARK, resides on the old homestead, as before mentioned, is now first selectman of his town, and has served as lister; Mary K., who married Austin TEMPLETON, a farmer, and resides on the Templeton farm; Austin S., who married Miss Sarah D. HOLMES, is a farmer, resides near the center of the town, and has served as lister; Emma (Mrs. William CLEVELAND), who resides in West Somerville, near Boston, Mass.; and Charles W., who married Flora WHEELER, is a farmer, and resides in Calais.

      Rufus HILL, son of Samuel, born in Smithfield, R. I., January 31, 1771, first settled in Danby, Vt. In the spring of 1801 he removed to East Montpelier. His log house was surrounded by a small clearing. The farm containing about 300 acres he cleared with the aid of his stalwart sons, and besides found time to do quite a business for his neighbors in carpentering. He was an unusually hard worker, and by precept and example early taught his sons habits of industry. December 8, 1797, he married Laomi ANGELL, who was born September 25, 1774. Mr. HILL died August 5, 1827. Mrs. HILL survived until September 10, 1852. They had born to them fifteen children, one of„ whom died in infancy, the others attained mature age, and thirteen married. Of this large family none but Philip settled in their native town. He was born March 2, 1808, and settled on the homestead where he was born. March 17, 1836, he married Elvira DODGE, of Barre. In 1867 he sold the place to his oldest son, S. Wesley HILL, with whom he and his aged wife now reside. Mr. and Mrs. Philip HILL celebrated their golden wedding March 17, 1886. They have twenty-three grandchildren. Samuel Wesley HILL married Miss Maria C. SMITH, resides on the old farm, and has been selectman and lister. He offered his services to the 4th Vt. Regt., and was rejected on account of a defective eye, but was more than a year in the commissary department.

      Benjamin ELLIS was born November 16, 1779. About 1804 he married Susannah GUERNSEY. In the spring of 1806 they came to East Montpelier and settled in the wilderness, where his son Sylvanus now lives. Mr. ELLIS, with the aid of his industrious sons, soon had a good home. He lived on the place until his death, at the advanced age of ninety-seven years. Mrs. ELLIS died at the age of eighty years. His son Sylvanus was born July 4, 1819. At the approach of old age Mr. ELLIS transferred the farm to this son, who paid off the heirs and provided for all the wants of his worthy parents. Sylvanus ELLIS married Miss Julia COX, of Calais, who was the mother of his daughter and only child, Cleora F., who went to Portland, Oregon, as a teacher, and there married Byron REYNOLDS, an enterprising and very extensive farmer located near the city. Mrs. ELLIS died July 8, 1865. July 4, 1866, Mr. ELLIS married Marcia COX, his present wife. He has always lived on the homestead where he was born, and has built and rebuilt an entire set of very fine buildings, and otherwise greatly improved his farm.

      John VINCENT was born ire Portsmouth, N. H., September 4, 1789. December 25, 1815, he married Rebecca K. WALLACE, of Thornton, N. H. They came from Woodstock, N. H., April 2, 1816, and settled on a farm in the southeastern part of Middlesex, Vt. They commenced housekeeping in a log house, and had but three acres of cleared land. Mr. VINCENT was a Jacksonian Democrat and represented Middlesex in the legislature in 1835 and 1836, and held several town offices. April 16, 1838, he moved to East Montpelier, where he resided the remainder of his life. He died November 25, 1852.

      Aurora MALLORY, born in Connecticut, in 1809, came to East Montpelier when only nine years of age, and had a home with his uncle, Lemuel BROOKS, where he resided until he married Martha, daughter of Levi TEMPLETON, in 1831. He settled on a farm near the center of the town, which he bought of Dr. James TEMPLETON. He died at East Montpelier village in 1870. His son, Levi T. MALLORY, born June 27, 1832, had only a common school education, but by a course of close observation and extensive reading he has a good practical education. August 28, 1855, Mr. MALLORY united in marriage with Miss Julia SHORTT, settled on the homestead of his wife's father, which he eventually purchased, and where he now resides. Early in life he engaged in buying cattle, sheep, and swine. In the fall of 1870 he was employed as superintendent of construction in building the M. & W. R. railroad, which position he held till the completion of the road, in 1873. In 1885, under a contract, he excavated and covered all the ditches required in laying the Montpelier water works.

      Ebenezer Fitch WILLARD was born in Barre, in 1795. His parents were early settlers in his native town, where his father kept a public house, dealt in live stock, but eventually died with his son Jack in Montreal. Ebenezer F. WILLARD married Lovisa Clark, of East Montpelier, and settled on a farm in the northwest corner of Barre. He was always a farmer, and at his death left each of his children a farm. And what is remarkable the entire real estate of this family is all in their hands, with the single exception of the farm owned by his oldest son. Mr. WILLARD was a man of rare judgment of property, and was always ready to buy or sell any and every thing that farmers had to sell. He dealt largely in live stock from Montreal to Boston. He died on one of his farms in East Montpelier, in 1851, where he resided the last twenty years of his life. Mr. and Mrs. WILLARD were parents of four sons and two daughters, all of whom lived to be married and reared children, viz.: Charles C., Sophia (Mrs. G. L. DISC), who resides on the old homestead in Barre, Matthew D., Ebenezer, Jr., who also resides on the homestead in Barre, John M., and Phebe (Mrs. Pierce WELCH), who resides in Berlin and has had two sons, Leon and Herbert P. Matthew D. received only a common school education. He married Orlana, daughter of Jeduthan DOTY, of East Montpelier, March 23, 1852, and next day moved into their home on the Hezekiah DAVIS farm, where they lived twenty seven years, and where their only son, Frank P., now resides. They are also parents of an only daughter, Susan L., who married Clark SIBLEY, an enterprising farmer who resides in the village of East Montpelier. Mr. WILLARD has always been a Democrat, and although his party is greatly in minority, lie has held the offices of selectman and lister, and has performed the duties of these positions faithfully and well. At the present time he resides in the village of East Montpelier, where he holds the position of postmaster, and deals in agricultural implements.

      Charles Clark WILLARD, son of Ebenezer F., was born in Barre, September 14, 1820. Early in life he had more days of labor than school days. January 2, 1842, he united in marriage with Livia, daughter of Judge Israel GOODWIN, of East Montpelier, and resided on the homestead the next six years. He afterwards owned the MARSHALL farm, where he rebuilt and repaired the entire set of buildings, which he sold to Mr. George HOWLAND in 1866, and removed to the village, where he resided about twelve years. He now resides on a small farm half a mile southeast of East Montpelier village. He is a Democrat, but not an office seeker. Mrs. WILLARD died May 5, 1882, and Mr. Willard married Mrs. Julia S. (SEVERANCE) HINDS, June 20, 1883.

      John M. WILLARD was horn in Barre, attended the district school in winter, and was so early accustomed to labor that hard work was no hardship. March 27, 1860, he united in marriage with Miss Philena I. PERSONS. Mr. WILLARD dealt in real estate to quite an extent, and was a man of so good judgment that his advice was often sought and readily given. He accumulated a competency. He cast his lot with the Republican party, and during the late war gave his influence and support to the Union cause. He was no office seeker, but consented to hold the position of postmaster twelve or fourteen years. He died September 5, 1887.

      Rev. Lester WARREN, son of Philander and Lucy WARREN, was born in Fletcher, Vt., July 30, 1815. His parents were brought up in the faith of the Baptist and Congregational churches. At about fifteen years of age Lester had read the Bible through, and was called a Universalist before he had heard a Universalist sermon. About this time he also read a treatise on, the atonement, and the life of John MURRAY, and commenced to advocate the doctrine of universal redemption. He commenced teaching school in winter, very early in rife, and thus gained the means to procure an academic education. In the summer of 1837 he resided in the family of Rev. Eli BALLOU, then of Stowe, assisted him in a High school, read Mr. BALLOU's library, and occasionally was sent out to preach for him. The first substantial compensation that Mr. WARREN received for preaching was a copy of the Ancient and Modern History of Universalism, given him by Rev. J. E. PALMER for preaching for him in Barre, the third Sunday of June, 1837. He was engaged by the parish of Barre a part of 1838, and again in 1874 and '75, and after he had preached about fifty years. His first and last engagements were at Barre. He has rived and preached in Williamstown, Calais, and East Montpelier. He represented Calais in the legislature in 1856-57. After leaving Barre he, with his daughter Elsie, made the tour of Europe. He now resides at North Montpelier.

      Capt. Timothy DAVIS was born March 13, 1824, in the town of Fair Haven, Mass. At the age of seventeen years he shipped as a sailor on board a whaling ship, and followed the sea for seventeen years. He rose to the rank of first mate, and for awhile officiated as captain. In 1858 he came to East Montpelier and purchased the fine farm where he now resides. He has built the entire new set of convenient buildings and much improved his farm. During the late war the superintendent of recruits organized a company of militia, which was subject to the call of the President, and Mr. DAVIS was elected and commissioned its captain. The company was disbanded at the close of the war. Capt. DAVIS is a decided Republican, and has held the office of selectman five years, and was chairman of the board three years. He also represented East Montpelier in the legislature in 1867 and 1868. June 27, 1853, Capt. DAVIS was united in marriage with Miss Clara HATHAWAY. Mrs. DAVIS died May 20, 1886.

      The soldiers of the Revolution who settled in East Montpelier WERE HEZEKIAH TINKHAM, EDWARD WEST, ELIAS METCALF, JOHN PUTNAM, Job MACOMBER, Daniel RUSSELL, Theophilus CLARK, Clark STEVENS, Samuel SOUTHWICK, Enoch CATE, John GRAY, and Joshua SANDERS.

      Those who participated as soldiers in the War of 1812 were Rowland EDWARDS Enoch KELTON, Nathan KELTON, John GOURD, John B. KELTON, John MORGAN, Jasper M. STODDARD, and Moses PARMENTER.

      Daniel CUTLER and Orange MCKAY were soldiers in the Mexican war.

      In the late war East Montpelier sent eighty-six of her patriotic sons voluntarily into the Union army for three years, twelve for one year, and twenty-four for nine months. Three drafted men entered the service, two furnished substitutes, and twenty-two paid commutations. Of these, sixty-four were mustered out of service at the close of the war, or at the expiration of their term of service, thirty were discharged for disability, eight were killed in battle, six died of wounds received in action, eleven died of disease contracted in service, two died in rebel prisons, and six deserted.

      The first Christian society organized in town was that of the Friends, under the leadership of Clark STEVENS, who was their preacher. They assembled together regularly twice a week. About this time Mr. STEVENS built a log meeting-house near his own dwelling, which was the first altar established for the worship of God in Washington county. Through his instrumentality, and aided by his energetic co-laborer, Caleb BENNETT, the society enlarged and prospered, and erected a commodious meetirg-house about a half mile from the first primitive one, which is still standing. The society has ceased to exist.

      At an early day in the history of this town the Universalists had preaching of their cherished faith. Conspicuous among those who were active in its support were Gen. Parley DAVIS at the "Center," and Arthur DAGGETT, who lived and died at or near the East village. Previous to 1834 there had been Universalist preaching in what is now East Montpelier. In that year a substantial brick meeting-house was erected at the East village, which, though a union house, was owned mainly by the Universalists. The cost of the house was about $18,000. Quite extensive repairs have been made at different times, so that its present value can not be less than $25,000. For about twenty years after its erection it was occupied by the Universalists about one-half of the time, and since then, with the exception of about two years at different times, when meetings were only held occasionally, it has been occupied from one-half to nearly all of the time, the latter being the condition for eight years. The following are the names of the preachers, not all of whom have been resident pastors: Eli BALLOU, Lester WARREN, John S. LEE, Tracy R. SPENCER, Rotheus M. BYRAM, Olympia BROWN, John GREGORY, Simon GOODENOUGH, Joseph O. SKINNER, Warren SKINNER, Samuel S. DAVIS, Silas F. FLETCHER, John C. MCINERNEY, and Sylvester C. HAYFORD, the present preacher. This society has never had a church organization, but organized a Universalist society in 1835, of which the present membership is ninety-seven. The Sunday-school at East Montpelier has about fifty members, with an average attendance the past year of about thirty.

      In 1866 a fine brick meeting-house was erected at North Montpelier village, at which meetings have been held the greater part of the time since, and under the same society organization as the meetings at the East village. North Montpelier also sustains a Sunday-school. Each place has always had a separate Sunday-school organization.
 
 

Gazetteer Of Washington County, Vt. 1783-1899, 
Compiled and Published by Hamilton Child,
Edited By William Adams.
The Syracuse Journal Company, Printers and Binders.
Syracuse, N. Y.; April, 1889.
Pages 255 - 278
 

Transcribed by Karima Allison, 2003

Early 20th Century business In East Montpelier
by Ellen Hill & Marilyn Blackwell
 

"East Montpelier, Washington Co., VT Business Directory - 1883–1884"
from The Gazetteer Of Washington County, Vt. 1783-1899, 
Compiled and Published by Hamilton Child; May 1889