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1570683 I

ALLEN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

3 1833 01

51 3675

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http://www.archive.org/details/barkhamstedconniOOIeew

WM. WALLACE LEE.

BARKHAMSTED, CONN.,

CENTENNIAL

TO WHICH IS ADDED

A HISTORICAL APPENDIX,

CoNTAi.MXG Copies of Old Letters, Axtiqlariax. Names of

Soldiers of the RE^'OI.l■TIO^■. iSr2, 1S46 and 1S61 : Civil

Officers, and Other Matter Interesting to

THE People of the Town.

b^L

MERIDEN: Republican Steam Print.

1881.

1570683

TO THE

PEOPLE OF BARKHAMSTED,

WHERE MY BOYHOOD DAYS WERE SPENT, WHERE FRIEND- SHIPS WERE FORMED WHICH I FONDLY HOPE WILL EX- TEND BEYOND THIS MORTAL LIFE ; WHER.E HE WHOSE NAME I BEAR, AND SHE WHO NURSED ME IN INFANCY, WERE YEARS AGO LAID TO REST. AND TO ALL ITS SONS AND DAUGHTERS. WHEREVER THEIR LOT MAY BE CAST.

g '^hi^ ^iifte ^ooh \& '^cepecffwUg ^ctlicaicb

BY THE COMPILER.

PREFACE.

When the matter of an observance of the Centennial of our town was first agitated, and even after it was fully decided upon, I ex- pected to bear no more part in it than could with propriety be ex- pected of anyone who felt a deep interest in the project and desired its success. I had no doubt that among all the lawyers, doctors and ministers who had gone oiit from the town, plenty of men could be found who would do the historical and oratorical part of the cele- bration, and that with the others I should simply do the "looking on," and enjoy the occasion. The large and enthusiastic meetings which were held in May at Riverton, the Valley and the Hollow, were an assurance of the success of the undertaking, and it was evi- dent that with such efficient committees as were appointed at those meetings, and all the townspeople united in the project, there was no such thing as failure, as was fully proven by the grand result of September loth, 1879.

It was with great reluctance that I consented to attempt the histori- cal address, and the summer w^as well advanced before I yielded to the request of the committee. My memory of the tov^n as a whole did not go much farther back than 1840, when I was a boy of twelve, and as I left the tov\^n in 1S45, and have never since been a resident of it, it will be readily seen that I labored under a great disadvantage, leaving my lack of qualifications for the work entirely out of the question. Circumstances beyond my control prevented my devoting more than two or three days to traveling about the town to obtain from the records and the older people the material for an address. It was all prepared and every word written within three weeks of the time it was delivered.

Being a native of the Valley, of course, I should be expected to know more about the western portion of the town than of the eastern, of which my knowledge is even now limited. I have found it neces- sary to revise some portions of the address by reason of informa- tion obtained since the celebration. I well know the address is not as complete as is desirable, (and perhaps it is in some respects inac- curate) but it is impossible to crowd into a two hours' address a full and complete history of even a small community for a hundred years, to say nothing of a large township like ours.

I had hoped some one could be found in the town, or near by, who

2 PREFACE.

would compile this book and prepare it for publication, but thus far no one has been found. Feeling that it ought to be done, and fearing no one else would do it, I have concluded, in deference to the wishes of many interested friends, to make the attempt, but for the state and character of the work I offer no apology. It has been compiled during hours that should have been devoted to " rest and refresh- ment" from daily toil. I well know the kindly natures of the people of Barkhamsted and their feelings towards the boys and girls w'ho have gone out from the town, and rest confident they will not criticise this work harshly.

In the compilation of the book I have been much assisted by my friend, Mr. Wm. F. Graham, editor of the Meriden Republican^ whom I had invited to be present at our celebration, and who desired permission to insert in the book his tribute to our town and its people, from the standpoint of an impartial obsei-\-er. >

I am also under great obligations to Capt. Henry R.Jones, of New Hartford, who had taken a deep interest in our celebration, and who has devoted quite a deal of time and labor to obtaining historical in- formation concerning our town. It was but natural he should thus feel, being a son of Henry Jones, grandson of Col. Israel Jones, who was a son of Capt. Israel Jones, the second settler in the town.

I am also indebted to many of the town people for "meat, drink and lodging." and assistance in various ways in my "search for knowledge." To name them all would extend the list to a great length ; to name some and omit others would be to make invidious distinctions, which I am unwilling to do. I am sure all will accept the heartfelt thanks of him whom they knew as the boy,

WALLACE LEE.

INTRODUCTORY.

BY CAPT. HENRY R. JONES, NEW HARTFORD.

Early in the Spring of 1S79 the celebration of Barkhamsted's one hundredth anniversary began to be talked of. Probably about the first suggestion which was made relative to it was at the time of the funeral of Rev. Geo. B Atwell, at Pleasant Valley, April 27th. The credit of its first proposal is universally conceded to Mr. Wm. Wal- lace Lee of Meriden, who, in his capacity as Past Grand Master of the Masonic Order in Connecticut, officiated at the funeral of the venerable elder.

The first definite steps taken towards the celebration were the calling of meetings to discuss the subject, which meetings were called for May 28th at the Episcopal church at Riverton, May 29th at the Methodist church in Pleasant Valle}^, and at the Universalist church in the Hol- low May 30th. These meetings, at the request of those most inte- rested were announced by the pastors of the different churches through- out the town. Mr. W. Wallace Lee and Judge Monroe E. Mer- rill of Hartford had promised to be present and deliver addresses. At first it was thought a sufficient interest to carry out the plan could not be enlisted, for the town is composed mostly of agricultu- ral and quiet people, rather averse to any effort aside from the every day walk of life. As the time approached for these preliminary meetings, however, the subject of the Centennial grew more and more to be the all-absorbing topic of conversation in the home circle, and as neighbor met neighbor upon the road to and from the store, mill and church. When the time for the first meeting had actually arrived, the matter had warmed into a white heat, and a large turn- out, to learn what others thought, was the result. At this meeting Mr. Lee, by his earnest appeals, aided and strengthened by the finished speaking, witty sayings and humorous anecdotes of Judge Merrill, succeeded in arousing the entire assemblage to^an en-

4 CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF BARKHAMSTED,

thusiastic determination to push the thing through, and give the old town a bnthday party which should be worthy of the honesty and industry of the early settlers and their posterity "to the last syllable of recorded time." The next evening at "the Valley" the speakers were greeted by a throng of eager listeners, who had gathered in- spiration from those who drove down from Riverton to push the wheel along, and so at the Hollow upon the succeeding evening the enthusiasm had grown, until the entire population, male and female, old and young, had caught the spirit and were ready to give their strength and means to make the undertaking a success.

During these meetings a committee of arrangements had been ap- pointed to perfect and carry out the plans as had been proposed by those who had taken active part. This committee was composed of ladies and gentlemen representing different localities, who v\"ere chosen at each of the three meetings in accordance with their resi- dence.

At the meeting in Riverton and for that locality :

Riverton — H. C. Brown, Jas. Tiffany, Warren Alford, Rufus Cleveland, Mrs. L. C. Brown, Miss Carrie A. Goodwin, Mrs. Lins- ley, Mrs Geo. Vanostrem.

Pleasant Valley — E. Dwight Cannon, J. B. Eggleston, Uriel Spencer, Bradley Marsh, Mrs. J. B. Eggleston, Mrs. John How'd, Mrs. L. Eno, Mrs. Chas. Cowles, Mrs. H. B. Stannard.

Barkhamsted Centre — Frank A. Case, Wm. Tiffany, Wallace Case, Sheldon Merrill, Wm. Payne, Correll Tiffany, Mrs. Horace Case, Mrs. Correll Tiffany, Mrs. Dwight Case, Mrs. Samuel Case, Mrs. Edwin P. Jones, Miss Abbie Case, Mrs. Alice Lane.

The committee immediately organized and elected E. Dwight Cannon Chairman, and Sheldon Merrill Secretary. They continued to meet from time to time at different localities in the town during the summer. During the month of June the following cir- cular of invitation was printed and extensively circulated among the sons and daughters of Barkhamsted scattered over the Union, and published in the various newspapers throughout the State of Con- necticut.

i77g_ONE HUNDRED YEARS— 1S79. Barkhamsted.

To

Organized amid the toils and sufferings incident to the revolu- tionary struggle, and settled largely by those who participated in it,

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF BARKHAMSTED, 5

the men and w'omen of Barkhamsted, feeling a just pi"ide in its his- tory, have voted to celebrate its Centennial by appropriate ceremonies. We desire that all should unite with us in this matter who are con- nected with the town either by birth, former residence, marriage, or ancestry, and as one of the number we address you. While we know that they are scattered far and wide, we feel sure that memory often fondly turns to the pleasant scenes of by-gone years. Acting in be- half of the old town, we invite you to join with us in our celebra- tion. Come with your sons and your daughters ; come with your husbands and your wives ; come and see the old friends who have not forgotten you though years have passed since you left us : come and renew the friendship of youth ; we promise you a cordial old- time welcome. Please inform us at an early day vs^hether you will be with us. The Celebration will be at Barkhamsted Center, on September loth.

Should you find it impossible to be with us, please send us a few lines, if no more, to show that you have not forgotten "the old folks at home."

From its organization until the celebration was over, and the mul- titudinous details were completed and settled, this committee con- tinued to hold meetings and work for the cause. Nor was the labor confined to the active members of the committee ; indeed it seemed as if the entire population had resolved itself into a "committee of the whole" with but the common end in view — to make the Cen- tennial a success, and to provide quarters and food for the gathered sons and daughters wdien they should assemble under the ' ' old roof tree." A real old New England Thanksgiving was in preparation ; the relatives were all invited, and their name was legion. They must be made welcome and happy and proud of ^their ancestry and of their native town.

Town records, church records, old newspapers and almanacs were searched for facts and incidents which related to former years to make the coming day more interesting. The old men and \\omen of the past century were sought out, consulted, inter- viewed and interrogated for reminiscences and anecdotes of the days gone by to tell to the uncles, the cousins and the aunts when they should come for their centennial visit home. Old gar- rets, lofts and crannies were ransacked for mementoes and relics of every description ; spinning wheels, looms, hatchels, old saddles with pillions aflixed ; old bridles, gigs, chaises, carts and wagons ; old bonnets, knee breeches, shoes and buckles, shawls, and every manner of garment worn by the grandparents were brought out, shaken and brushed for the boys and girls to wear in the proces- sion, which was to be formed for the occasion. Thus was the preparation carried on.

O CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF BARKHAMSTED.

As the day approached the more important officers were chosen as follows :

For President of the Day — Hon. Hiram Goodwin.

For the Address of Welcome — Hiram C. Brown, Esq.

For the Historical Address — Wm. Wallace Lee, Esq.

For Poet of the Day — Mrs. Emma Carter Lee, of Oberlin, O.

For Orator — Ex-Judge Monroe E. Merrill, of Hartford.

Musical Director — Joseph B. Eggleston.

Chief Marshal — Frank A. Case.

Commander of Escort — George T. Carter.

How the arrangements were carried out we refer the reader to the coming pages, which embrace the addresses, poems, letters from ab- sent sons and daughters, and reports from the several newspapers which were represented on the ground by special reporters.

Thus do we present to you, as well as circumstances will allow, an account of Barkhamsted's one hundredth anniversary, which perhaps will be read with interest not only by the present, but by future generations.

BARKHAMSTBD.

THE IMPRESSIONS AN OUTSIDER RECEIVED FROM THE CENTENNIAL- CELEBRATION OF 1879.

Having attended, in my capacity as a journalist, the Centennial celebration of the old town of Barkhamsted, in September, 1S79, I was, of course, a disinterested spectator, entirely free from the pa- triotic emotions and local ties that gave the gathering an interest to those who belonged to the good old town, or were associated with it by ancestry or kindred. Being merely a cold chronicler of hard facts, the highest impulse urging me to the scene was that motive-power so common to newspaper men, to distance their competitors in giving the fullest and best report of the proceedings of any public gathering that woidd interest their readers. Having among the readers of the journal it is my privilege to conduct many '' Barkhamsted boys," I went thither to cater to their literary wishes. But like many another, who sacrificed pleasure to duty, I lost sight of my special mission, and was soon involuntarily and almost unknown to myself, a ready participant in the patriotic proceedings that marked one grand day in the history of the State, and of the old town whose sons and daugh- ters have helped to turn the Western prairies into metropolitan cities. Perhaps there were some reasons for the sudden transformation from the mechanical newspaper reporter to the patriotic participant in a celebration that belonged exclusively to those connected with the old town.

When I observed the hospitality of the residents, the ready and chi\'alrous welcome thev gave the stranger within their gates ; the great tax upon the few to entertain the many, deeming it a pleasure to do so ; generously furnishing carriages, horses, bed and board, without money and without price, for all who came — it will not be surprising if I took more than a passing interest, and changed my mind regarding the misgivings I entertained, when, nine months be- fore, I was consulted by my esteemed fellow townsman. Alderman Wm. Wallace Lee, who inaugurated the preliminaries for the cele-

8 CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF BARKIIAMSTED.

bration, and indefatigably worked to awaken an interest in it, with that unbounded measure of success that is generally the reward of those who persevere in eveiy good work, and ai'e neither discouraged nor daunted by temporary obstacles.

When, as already said, I observed that fifty or sixty families of the old residents entertained in royal and princely style the five or six thousand who came from near and far, not only at their own firesides, but serving a collation at the town hall, for the noon-day meal, con- sisting of all that farm and garden and country-kitchen could produce, as well as furnishing bands of music, the most pi^ofuse decorations, (the town being in holiday attire) it will be no surprise that I heartily joined as one of the merry makers ; and I rejoice at the opportunity^ this publication of the proceedings in book form affords me, to speak of the hospitality of the residents of Barkhamsted, which if not done by one not at all interested, would, from motives of delicacy, be omitted by the compiler of the book, and without which, I feel it would be incomplete. I therefore crave the privilege of telling what I know of the celebration and its preliminaries, and ask its publica- tion in the volume — not from a desire to appear in print, (for that is no new experience to me) but because I feel that the work should not lack one of its most deserving chapters for lack of a chronicler. Therefore to my task :

When the new year of 1879 opened, it suggested to Alderman Wm. Wallace Lee, a native of Barkhamsted, but a resident of oiu* city for eighteen years, that before the close of the j'ear, the one hun- dredth anniversary of the birth of his native town would have gone by, and he determined, if possible, to mark the Centennial natal day in a manner that would pass into history. The task was no light one, for those with whom he grew up in boyhood were scattered al- most in every State of the Union, many occupying positions of honor and trust — on the bench, at the bar, in the legislative halls of their adopted States, and paying tribute to every honorable position of life. To interest all these was no light task, particularly as Mr. Lee has but few hours daily to himself, and those after he leaves the workshop at close of day, and on these hours are constant and im- perative demands, from the important offices he holds in various organizations. But with that indomitable Yankee grit, characteris- tic of the New Englander, he was bound to try the experiment, having the experience of the National Centennial Celebration in 1876 in Meriden to aid him. He being then chairman of the com- mittee of arrangements, most of the preliminary work depended upon him, and he prosecuted it to a successful close. He was.

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF BARKHAMSTED. 9

therefore, no novice in the celebration business. For the Barkham- sted Centennial, he took the initiatory step by issuing the following

CIRCULAR OF ENQUIRY.

Meriden, Jan. i, 1S79. To

Dear Sir : — Three years ago the American people, actuated by a common impulse, with glad hearts and voices celebrated the Centen- nial of the Nation. The feeling which prompts us to such obser- vances is natural and right It leads to deeds of lofty daring in de- fense of the nation's life and honor. Actuated by something of this feeling, it has been proposed to celebrate, in a becoming manner, the Centennial of Barkhamsted, which occurs the present year ; and as a native or former resident of the old town, I address you.

The sons and daughters of Barkhamsted are scattered far and wide. Probably more people have removed from the town since the begin- ning of this 19th century than are now living within its borders. It is obvious that no celebration worthy of the town can be had with- out the co-operation and assistance of her sons and daughters who have found homes in other localities.

In order that we may secure concerted action w^ith the people at home, it is necessary that we should know how each absent one feels. Now to this end, please to answer the following questions : "Yes" or "No."

I. — Are you in favor of the proposed celebration?

2. — Will you be present, if circumstances will permit?

3. — Will you assist in the matter as far as you can?

If you favor it, what time in the year do you think it best to have it ; whether in the summer or fall ; and where do you prefer it should be.'' at the Center, Pleasant Valley, or Riverton.?

Please give an early attention to this matter, — not later than Feb- ruary 1st, — and send your answer to one who never was ashamed to say he was a Barkhamsted boy. Wm, Wallace Lee.

This was the initial step that culminated in one of the finest cele- brations that ever marked a New England country town. About seventy five of the "Circular of Enquiry" were sent to all parts of the Union, and we can have but little appreciation of the time and trouble involved in finding the location and post oflice address of those intended to be readied by the circulars. But Friend Lee sat up nights at his work, and was finally successful. Once, we re- marked to him, " Where are you going to raise the money to carry out your project }"

"Let the people of Barkhamsted become interested," said he, "and I will risk that all that is needed, and more, will be speedily forthcominof."

lO

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF BARKHAMSTKD.

And, sure enough, it was. Mr. Lee knew the people he was cor- responding with better than his querist did.

In due time, the responses to the Circular of Enquiry began to come, all approving of the proposed celebration, and ready to do whatever was necessary to make it a success.

I saw, from time to time, the letters received by Mr. Lee, and at his request, to keep the account of the proceedings in connected order, the names of the writers are inserted here :

ENCOURAGERS OF THE CELEBRATION.

Hon. James Phelps,

Hon. Elisha Johnson,

Judge Monroe E. Merrill,

Capt. Clayton H. Case,

Eben C. Woodruff, Esq.,

Orville Jones, Jr. , Esq.,

Lyman H. Beeclier,

Judge L. Myron Slade,

Erwin W. Webster, Esq.,

Albert W. Webster, Esq.,

Samuel M. Blair, Esq.,

George H. Cleveland, Esq.,

Mrs. Kate A. Radford, nee Burwell,

Mrs. Marion L. Spencer, nee Burwell,

Rollin L. Beecher, Esq.,

Amos Beecher, Esq.,

Edwin S. Beecher, Esq.,

Philemon W. Jones, Esq., '

Eugene A. Munson,

George W. Eggleston, Esq.,

Edward F. Eggleston, Esq.,

Bela S. Squire, Esq.,

Lester P. Newell, Esq.,

Walter S. Carter, Esq.,

Rev. Lemuel Richardson,

Rev. Luther H. Barber,

Sherman Burwell. Esq.,

Walter S. Stickney, Esq.,

liart Doolittle, Esq.,

John W\ Whiting, Esq.,

George P. Burwell, Esq.,

Mrs. Harriet Tuttle, nee Burwell,

Dr. Joseph B. Whiting,

.Mrs. Mahitable H Kenea, nee Lee

Mrs. Laura Kenea, nee Lee

Mrs. Isabella Eggleston, nee Lee,

Prof. Virgil Corydon Taylor,

D. Bradley Lee, Esq.,

Editor John P. Kenea,

Grandison N. Wilder,

Mrs. Annis C. Lee, r,ce Case,

Mrs. Elsie McCurdy, nee Case,

Anson J. Allen, Esq.,

Essex, Connecticut. Hartford, Connecticut.

Berlin, Connecticut. New Britain, Connecticut.

Bridgeport, Connecticut. Ansonia, Connecticut.

Portland, Connecticut. Seymour, Connecticut.

Winsted, Connecticut.

Canton, Connecticut. Windsor, Vermont. New York.

Huntington, Long Island. Bolton, Connecticut. Deep River, Connectl.^ut. Meriden, Connecticut. Clinton, Connecticut. Bristol, Connecticut. Cleveland, Ohio. Chicago, Illinois. Janesville, Wisconsin. Madison, Wisconsin. Wolcott. Connecticut. Henderson, Jefferson Co., N. Y Des Moines, Iowa. St. Louis, Missouri. La Cygne, Kansas. Painesville, Ohio. Dansvdle, New York. '

New Hartford, Connecticut.

Others, in such personal interviews as wete had, when .some of the boys met, expressed tliemselvcs as heartily in favor of it.

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF BARKHAMSTED. II

Among these may be mentioned Henry Smith, Esq., of New- Haven, Conn. ; Wm. H. Tifiany, of Hartford, Conn. ; Mrs. Jas. L. Flint, nee Lee, New Britain, Conn. ; Seth K. Priest, Esq., Capt. Henry R. Jones, and Austin Lee, Esq., of New Hartford, Conn. ; Mrs. Ann Maria Bailey, neeYo\-\c\\&\^ Middlefield, Conn.

The enthusiasm manifested, and the patriotic feelings which were aroused by these letters and intei'views left no doubt of the success of the celebration, if it depended upon those who years ago had left the old town to make their way in the world.

THE NEXT STEP.

Mr. Lee then decided to consult with Judge Munroe E. Merrill, ot Hartford, a native of Barkhamsted, and the two at different times, during the month of Ma}^, went to Barkhamsted, and held public meetings in each quarter of the town, arousing an interest that the}' had hardly looked for, but which took the success of the celebration out of the realms of doubt. For a detailed account of these meet- ings, held at various times, the compder's introduction, printed in the pages preceding, and penned at his request by Capt. Henry R. Jones, of New Hartford, must be consulted, as the writer was not present at them, but from the newspaper accounts, they were largely attended, the responses generous, and a general desire ex- pressed that the celebration should be held.

Then began the active work of preparing for the celebration by the residents of Barkhamsted, and that they were eminently suc- cessful in their efforts, a thousand tongues will testify, judging by the magnificent parade and process' ion of fair women and honest men through Barkhamsted, on the cool and refreshing September morning of 1879, when the old town was bedecked in its gayest holiday attire ; when thundering cannon echoed and re-echoed from hill to valley that the natal day had come ; when old folks were young once more, and song and story, and the loud timbrel were sounded mid pa3ans of jubilation, to welcome the Centennial and its visitors — the whole forming a page of history, to be told and re- told at future firesides, to children unborn, by gray-haired sires and aged matrons, who were boys and girls on the loth of September, 1S79. The memory of that pleasant day and the peojjle who made it such will linger for life with

Daily Republican Office, WM. F. GRAHAM.

Meriden, Ct., May i, iSSi.

CENTENNIAL DAY AT LAST.

The foregoing chapters bring us up to the eve of the Centennial Day, and it was as pleasant a Fall sundown as history could well i^ecall. The Italian sky, with its lines of crimson and blue, far oft behind the hills, was a grand sight, and the four quarters of the old town, usually quiet and staid, were alive with people ; trains all coming heavily laden with living freight, transported from far and near, to be on hand for the morrow. Every house had its full quota of guests, who were hospitably entertained, and who, after supper, w^ent from house to house in groups calling on neighbors of the past, visiting kinsmen, and talking over old times, in true country style, and all retired feeling happy and full of bright anticipations for

THE MORNING,

v^^hich was ushered in, at sunrise, with a volley of artillery, follo\\^ed by the successive firing of cannon at intervals of thirty minutes, until the hour arrived for the forming of

THE VARIOUS PROCESSIONS,

previous to and during which trains from different directions brought citizens from surrounding towns and other States to New Hartford, from whence teams ran with heavy loads to the scene. Teams and vehicles of every description came pouring in from all portions of the town, concentrating at the Center, which had been fixed upon for the occasion. There was no stint of bunting, flags, and other evidences of rejoicing.

At S o'clock a procession formed at the Hollow, consisting of

The Marshal, Frank A. Case,

Tlie Baikhaiusted Drum Corps.

Mounted escort of fifty men, commanded by Capt. Geo. T. Carter.

Carriage containing Judge Merrill and Capt. C. H. Case, of Hartford.

The Banner of 1779 and 1879.

Antiques and Horribles, mounted and on foot.

Ladies and gentlemen mounted on pillions, dressed in the costume of 1779.

Ornamented ox-wagons and carts, etc., etc.

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF BARKHAMSTED. 13

In the western part of the town another procession was formed on the Green, consisting of

Assistant Marshals Will Young;and Pease. Twenty Special Constables, sworn in for the occasion. The Nepaug Brass Band, Osborn, Leader. The New Hartford Drum Corps, Woodruff, Leader. William Wallace Lee, Historian: Wm. F. Graham, of the Meriden Republi- can; Hon. Hiram Goodwin, President of the day. Judge Daniel Youngs, H. C. Brown, Esq., and other town officials and citizens in carriages, and a long procession on horseback, in carriages and on foot.

The processions marched to the Centre amid the booming of cannon and the music of brass instruinents, drum and fife.

THE ANCESTRAL CUSTOMS

of one hundred ^•ears were faithfully represented, and were well worth seeing. The equestrian exhibitions of ancient and modern times were a grand medley, being on the one hand a fine exhibition of horsemanship, and on the other, provokingly laughable. There were to be seen in the modern style of riding, Mr. Henry Wilcox, of New Hartford, and Miss Hattie Howd. Next followed, in ancient style of riding, Capt. Robt. Vosburg and Minnie Pefl^ers and Clarence Fitch and Belle Wilcox. Captain Vosburg was captain of the old militia company of Barkhamsted, and is more thair seventy years old, but he rode his large black as finely, and sitting as erect, as any young man in the mounted escort — Capt. Carter not even excepted. Minnie Pefters sat behind him on a pillion, and the two couples were indeed the observed of all observers ; but we are not anxious to have pillion riding come into fashion. Next after this came the ox- wagon with the thirteen ladies bearing the banner of 1779, representing the thirteen original States ; next two large wagons filled with antiques and now and then a horrible. The mounted horsemen, all townsmen, improvised very tasteful "'uniforms" for the day. They wore fiiult- less white shirts, white vests, with sashes of mosquito netting. None of the mounted men wore coats, and they presented a very neat ap- pearance in this original costume. One feature of the procession was decidedly noticeable and antique. It was a column headed by two horsemen in the costume of a century ago, while seated behind each was a lady on a pillion, bringing one back to the genuine old tashioned times, when the old folks went to town and to church in that style — a man and a woman riding together on the same horse. Speaking of the pillion riding, suggests that Belle Wilcox, wore a bon- net that came from England, and is known to be considerably more than a hundred years old. Mrs. Bliss, of Canton, had a wooden sugar bowl which she displayed, and she knew it to be one hundred

14 CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF BARKHAMSTED.

and thirty years old. Rollin Hart had a cane, handed down from his great-grandfather, made by himself, which was all of one hundred and thirty years old.

The two processions moved towards each other from different di- rections, having the same objective point, which was "The Centre," where the exercises were to be conducted. They inet there, bands playing and cannon waking the echoes of the noble hills and valleys. They received a smiling welcome, for there was a profusion of deco- rations not only on the buildings about the grounds, but on every house along both lines of march.

The meeting of the processions was the signal for a I'ound of cheers from five thousand people, and a waving of handkerchiefs and other outbursts of enthusiasm, that made the welking ring, and that proved a fitting prelude to the exercises that were no\v ready to open.

The church, in front of which, the musical and oratorical exer- cises were conducted, was handsomely trimmed with bunting and streamers. The pillai's were festooned with the national colors, pro- ducing a pretty, patriotic eftect. The word ''Welcome," in evergreen, appeared on the portal, and two large American flags swung from the summit of the "meeting-house" to the opposite side of the street. At one side of the church a platform was raised, in front of which were rows of improvised benches, and over these was a large canvas stretched from the church to a row of pine trees. The front of the speakers' platform was transformed into an exotic garden, a solid phalanx of flowers and evergreens, doing duty as a railing be- tween the audience and speakers, and making a beautiful appearance. The seats arranged for the audience were thoughtful on the part of the committee, and were highly appi'eciated by those who desired to hear the exercises.

Between 4,000 and 5,000 people were assembled, and the scene was one not often witnessed amid rustic surroundings. Tents pitched upon the ground for the sale of ice cream, hot oysters and refresh- ments of all kinds were numerous. Venders of every description in wagons, on foot, by the side of fences and stone walls, were plenti- ful. Liquor sellers, and even lager beer dispensers were auspi- ciously absent, though here and there might have been seen a youth or yeoman driving a prosperous trade in nev\^ cider. Ice water was free, and lemonade was cheap.

In the porch of the meeting-house was a large book, in which every one was requested to register their name, birthplace, age and present residence, to be preserved for inspection at the next Centennial.

FORMAL PROCEEDINGS

AT THE CENTER.

It was ten o'clock — the hour for the official celebration to begin. When the soft reverberations of the music had died out, President Hiram Goodwin, who had been unanimously chosen by the committee of arrangement^ to conduct the proceedings, and whose name was on every tongue for the measure of praise he so well earned by his efficiency, stepped forward, called the meeting to order, and spoke as follows :

PRESIDENT GOODWIN'S REMARKS.

Fellow Citizens : — It is wise for nations, states, and lesser com- munities and municipalities at times to pause and review the past, brighten old memories, and rehearse leminiscences — to carefully examine the present, and with full purpose and renewed vigor press forward to the future.

The great cycle of time has fully rounded out its hundred years since this town received her act of incorporation from the state legislature, and ten decades have rolled round upon the dial plate of time since she began to enjoy the rights and discharge the duties of a corporation.

Born in the stn-ring times of the revolution, cradled amidst its rolling surges, — uniting in the great struggle for human liberty, pressed forward till independence was proclaimed and victory achieved.

Some querulous critic may perhaps suggest surprise that the speaker should have been selected to preside over this your jubilee on this occasion, not being a native of this town. Well, if not a na- tive, I am a citizen by adoption beyond a doubt. I came here in

1 6 CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF BARKHAMSTED.

the fall of 1S30, fift}' years ago, less one, and this has been my resi- dence ever since. Not long after I came, I brought to this place that young, cheery, chatty girl, my wife, who, thank God, is alive and here to-day. I have had your confidence, I have had your suf- frages. I have shared in your joys and sorrows ; here my children were born, and here, I have to say with many of you, my dead are buried. Having passed over the boundary line which limits human life, and my sun fast setting in the western horizon, yet I thank a kind Providence which permits me to meet you here to-day, and to participate in this centennial anniversary.

And now what more fitting than that we commemorate this hun- dredth year of the incorporation of this town. Here let us erect a memorial, so that when the children shall in the futui'e enquire, "what mean these stories?" the cheering answer may come, "Hitherto the Lord hath brought us."

Generations have come and gone, the present generation will soon pass aw^ay, and future generations will come and go, and at the end of the next hundred years, who the historian, poet and orator will be, none of us can tell — we shall all have passed away ; but we shall meet again, in that day when the great congregated host of a universe shall be gathered — the final record will be unfolded, and the great scroll of the history of nations and individuals will be un- rolled and exhibited — niay we find an approving record, made by a just and wise God.

The remarks of President Goodwin were frequently interrupted with applause, and at the close, the satisfaction they gave was shown in the generous cheers.

MUSIC AND SONG.

The band then discoursed a beautiful air, and was followed by that grand old song, "Coronation," so familiar in New England, three thousand voices joining the choir in the chorus, filling the air with melody. And here it is worth noting that in the choir was a musician who played a bass violin that was seventy five years old. It was an excellent state of preservation, and was handed down from sire to son.

THE DIVINE BLESSING

followed, being invoked by Rev. Mr. Holly of Bridgeport, formerly pastor of the Congregational church in Riverton The words of the man of God were very appropriate to the occasion, and the thou- sands of bowed heads were no doubt in sympathy with him in his supplications to the Mercy Seat for a full measure of heavenly spirit and benediction on the exercises just opened. This was followed by the

17

ADDRESS OF WELCOME.

BY HIRAM C. BROWN, Esq.

Mr. President and Fellow Citizens :- -I do not intend, nor will you expect me to occupy much of your time on this occasion.

We have assembled here to commemorate the one hundredth anniversary of the town of Barkhamsted, and to listen to a history by one of her favorite sons of the many changes that have taken place since its organization, and to contemplate the results of the labor and untiring eflbrts of that little band of noble men and wom- en, vvho were the pioneer settlers of the town. We come her to- day expecting to meet many of our friends who have gone out from among us in former years, who have not forgotten us, nor been for- gotten, but who still cherish fond recollections of these grand old hills and valleys, and of the loved ones they left behind. Nor have we been disappointed. There are many of them with us to-day. They have come from the north, from the south, from the east, and from the west ; from different states of the Union have they come to visit once more, and perhaps for the last time, the scenes of their childhood, and the graves of their ancestors ; to renew the friend- ship of youth and the endearcnents of riper years, and to unite with us in celebrating the one hundredth anniversary of their native town. This gathering resembles in some respects an old fashioned New England Thanksgiving occasion, where whole families, long sep- arated it may be, gather around the old hearth-stone to renew their old loves, and to mourn and sympathize with each other as they re- count the trials and afflictions through which they have passed dur- ing their separation, or to rejoice together over some grand success achieved by some one of their number since they last met under the old roof tree.

Former citizens of Barkamsted : — we bid you welcome to your na- tive town ; we thank you for your presence on this occasion, and extend to you, and to all, a happy greeting, and a cordial welcome. Tne history — the record of the town of Barkhamsted for an entire century — is fixed and unalterable. The past record of each of us as individuals, is fixed and unchangeable. That the record might have been better in every instance none will deny ; how much bet- ter, God only knows.

Would It not then be well for us all, old and young, to resolve here and now, that our future record shall be as much fairer, bright- er and better than that of the past, as yonder luminary exceeds in brilliancy the pale brightness of the Qiieen of Night, remembering tiiat the character of a town can never rise above the character of its inhabitants. Let me, in conclusion, say to the young men, upon whom will soon devolve public duties and responsibilities, guard vvell your reputation. Be careful never to give occasion to any one to doubt your integrity and question your honesty. Then, with that intelligence, which is the birthright and inheritance of every New Englander, you may play an important part in sup- plying material for the historic address on the occasion of Bark- hamsted's second centennial celebration in 1979.

l8 CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF BARKHAMSTED.

General applause was rendered at the close of the address, and before the sounds died out the brass band struck up a lively air, which received merited cheers.

Then came a beautiful feature of the choir, which rendered in fine style a new version of "America," suitable to the occasion It was arranged by Rev, Carlos S. Linsley, rector of the Episcopal church of Riverton, and is as follows :

CENTENNIAL ODE.

Barkhamsted, 'tis of thee, ■^ And thy first century,

Of thee we sing. ^y^ Land where our fathers died,

-/' y^C^ Home of our joy and pride,

' 0 From valley and hillside

■ Our songs shall ring.

Our rugged town we see. Bark from the hemlock tree

Gave thee thy name. We'll read thy hist'ry o'er, We'll count each " Case " and " Moore," We'll view thy " Lighthouse " shore

And spread thy fame.

We'll trace each pedigree,

Each " Merrill" mark and " Lee,"

And name them o'er. From fairer climes and suns We call our absent ones; Fair daughters and brave sons

Come home once more.

Thy children all for thee A song of jubilee

W^ith joy shall raise. They love thy rocks and rills. Thy woods, and vales, and hills ; Each heart with rapture thrills

And joins in praise.

No feature of the proceedings elicited, up to the time of its being sung, such applause as the rendering of the "'Cententiial Ode." The choir threw their whole heart into the spirit of the song, and the eye of every one in the audience brightened with delight and pride.

There was then a pause of a moment, and President Goodwin rose, and in very handsome and flattering remarks, introduced "the Historian of the Day — Wm. Wallace Lee, a native of Barkhamsted, but now of Meriden."

Mr. Lee stepped forward, and was received with welcoming cheers, and when quiet was restored, he began the delivery of his address, which occupied nearly two hours, during which he re- ceived fixed attention, the only interruptions being