The Westford Wardsman, April, 1912
Saturday, April 6, 1912
Center. Miss Florence N. Whittemore, of Winter Hill, Somerville, was a week-end visitor at the Kittredge farm this week.
Miss Ella F. Hildreth had the pipe organ at the Congregational church tuned and put in repair last week, thereby incurring the gratitude of organist and choir and their listeners.
Miss Eva E. Fletcher was hostess to the members of the Thimble club last week Friday afternoon at her home and the meeting proved a most enjoyable one.
Mrs. Wayland F. Balch is very ill at her home on Boston road, at last reports.
The board of trustees of the Congregational church, after careful investigation as to equipping the church with electric lights, have awarded the contract to L. A. Derby, of Lowell, and the work is to be done at once.
Miss Mary Morin, who recently fell and strained the muscles of her right shoulder, is rapidly getting back to normal again.
Mrs. Lillian Lumbert is far from well, threatened with nervous breakdown.
The members of the Edward M. Abbot hose company held their regular monthly meeting at their headquarters on Boston road Tuesday evening. The last supper of the season was served in charge of George E. Gould.
Mr. and Mrs. E. G. Boynton have moved from the town farm this last week and are at Littleton with the D. G. Houghtons for a little visit. Mr. Boynton was soloist at the Palm Sunday services at the Congregational church on Sunday morning. This is but one of the places where his excellent voice will be much missed.
Mr. and Mrs. Barnes, the new caretakers at the town farm, have taken possession, and are getting settled in their new environment.
Miss Gertrude Hamlin is spending the spring vacation from Wellesley college at her home.
The Henry M. Wrights, of Quincy, are visiting at H. L. Wright’s.
Mrs. Edith Wilson and Miss Jennie M. Chandler, to whom the late Mrs. John B. Fletcher gave the contents of her home, have been busy clearing the house ready for its renovation for the occupancy of its new tenants, Miss Loker and Miss Bunce.
Special Easter services are in preparation at both the churches for Sunday. At the Congregational church a vesper Easter service will be held at five o’clock, and the usual evening service will be dispensed with.
At the Tadmuck club on next Tuesday afternoon, Frank H. Hill will address the members on “Work and play—plans for the summer vacation.” This meeting promises to be full of suggestive interest and a good attendance of the members is desired.
Lecture. The lecture under the auspices of the academy teachers and pupils, given at the town hall on Tuesday evening, proved most attractive and interesting. The subject of the lecture was “Hiawatha,” given by Rev. A. T. Kempton, formerly of Lunenburg, but now of Cambridge. Mr. Kempton gave a graphic account of his experiences in gathering the subject matter and pictures for this lecture among the Ojibway Indians on the shores of Lake Huron, and then proceeded to read much of the poem, The proceeds to be devoted to building the new class room onto the village church.
Thirteen carloads of Deer Island [granite] stock has been brought to the sheds of the H. E. Fletcher plant on Oak hill. Philip Vaselin has charge of the sheds and Fred Gilson, an old time quarry boss, has a gang in the quarry. This with other works makes Oak hill jingle with action.
Peter McGlinchy has pleurisy and a broken leg, which is quite a painful inconvenience.
The W.C.T.U. met Wednesday with Mrs. Arthur Day. The president, Janet Wright, read a paper on “The Sunday question.” In this connection she reported an interview with Senator Bennett and read a letter from Representative Fisher. Voted to have the red letter day and flower mission at the next meeting, which will be held with Mrs. Perley Wright, May 8. Miss Belle Walker entertained with several well-directed piano solos. At roll call twelve responded and eight visitors.
The board of registrars met last week Friday evening at the town hall to examine according to law the petition of the republicans of Westford under the new primary law, in favor of William H. Taft for president. The names on the petition were all found to conform to the requirements of law.
The West Chelmsford Debating society and other combinations have decided to present the drama, “Uncle Rube,” and rehearsals have already commenced.
The annual fair of the Unitarian church will be held next Friday afternoon and evening.
Unanimously Called. At a meeting of the Unitarian society last Saturday evening, a unanimous call was given to Rev. Lyman W. Weeks to become the minister of the First Parish church. He has been supplying for several months, and living in Boston, and the call is to bring him nearer the parish work. He is an eloquent and fearless preacher and has added life to the society. He has delivered the address on Decoration day in different parts of New York state, and it is not improbable that he will give the address at the town hall on the coming Decoration day in place of Frank K. Stearns, of Lowell, who was obliged to cancel his engagement to deliver the address.
Moved. This week has been rather contagious. Melvin Leland moved from the H. B. Read farm to Andover. Oliver Dimon moved from West Concord, N.H., to the Read farm. Edson G. Boynton moved from the town farm to different places, with headquarters at D. G. Houghton’s, in Littleton, from where he will branch out, visiting at the Read and Boynton farms, Westford, and thence visiting the Misses Carrie and Florence Read, at Barre, until about the first of June, when his new farm at Winchester will be likely to bring him back to farm uniform again. Harvey W. Barnes, of Dracut, the new superintendent has moved in and taken Mr. Boynton’s place at the town farm. May he keep everything at its present satisfactory order and thrift. To do it he may have to “go” just a little in planning.
Electric Track Obstructed. Last week Friday afternoon a large stone, estimated to weigh ten tons, got thawed out of its bed by heavy rains and rolled onto the electric car tracks on Cummings’ hill. This prevented the Westford car from reaching Brookside. For the afternoon travel a car came from Ayer and crossed the grade crossing at Brookside and connected with the Westford car on Cummings’ hill. H. E. Fletcher was telephoned to and soon a force of men in charge of Harold H. Fletcher appeared on the scene. He decided that a dose of powder was the best medicine for anything so heavily charged with resistance. A few carefully prepared prescriptions and it noisily scattered in many directions. Selectman O. R. Spalding’s team with drag made it move more and good judgment says it ought to move more and take in the gravel pit at the foot of the hill.
Forge Village. The Misses Letitia and Catherine Ward, well-known young ladies of this village, are to appear in the four-act play “The country doctor,” which is to [be] given by Ayer grange in Page hall, Ayer, on Tuesday evening, April 16.
The Easter services at St. Andrew’s mission will be as follows: Holy communion at 8:30 a.m.; Sunday school at 3:30 p.m.; evening prayer at 7:30 p.m., sermon by Rev. A. L. Bumpus. Special music will be sung by the vested choir and the church will be dressed in attractive festal attire. On Good Friday evening, Lenten services were held, at which Rev. Endicott Peabody, of Groton, preached a most interesting sermon.
Cameron school reopened on Monday after the spring vacation of two weeks.
Miss Lillian Rose, of Belmont, visited relatives here over Sunday.
A daughter [Germaine Milot, born March 26, 1912] was welcomed to the home of Mr. and Mrs. Napoleon Milot on March 26.
Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Daley are soon to reside on Pleasant street, over the store formerly occupied by Victor Pigeon.
Charles Flavell has dissolved partnership with his brother, H. S. Flavell, who will in the future continue the milk business alone.
Miss Evelyn Fernald, of Knopp’s [Knops] pond, [Groton,] and also of this village, is home from Vassar for her Easter vacation.
On Tuesday evening a water main burst near the home of Miss Grace Lawrence, but was quickly repaired by the Westford Water Company.
On Friday evening, April 12, in Abbot hall, a benefit concert and dance will be held by the F.V.D. club of this village. The club is composed of well-known young people, all stage amateurs, and will present “A thorn among the roses,” a one-act comedy, which will be well worth seeing. Ice cream and cake will be served during the dancing.
Graniteville. Mrs. Elizabeth Doucette, widow of the late Morris Doucette, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. William Perkins, on Cold Spring road, early Tuesday afternoon, after a brief illness of pneumonia at the age of fifty-seven years. Mrs. Doucette was well and favorably known, and her death causes a severe shock to her many friends. She leaves a sister in Cloverdale, N.B., one son John, of this village, and four daughters—Mrs. William Perkins, Mrs. James Stuart, Mrs. Isaac Hall and Miss Martha Doucette, of Graniteville. The sympathy of the village people is extended to the bereaved family in this sad affliction.
Mr. and Mrs. Charles McLenna, who have spent the past few months in Peabody, have once more taken up their residence here. Mr. McLenna is employed as engineer with the H. V. Hildreth Granite Company here.
The first brush fire of the season occurred here on Sunday morning in the woods near the baseball grounds. This piece of property appears to have a habit of burning every so often, and as it is situated near the railroad track, it is thought possible that the fire may have been started by a passing engine.
The choirs in both the M.E. church and St. Catherine’s are now busy rehearsing special music for Easter.
All the schools here opened at the usual hour on Monday morning after the annual spring vacation.
The increase in wages recently granted by the Abbot Worsted Company is entirely satisfactory to the employees, and as the act was voluntary on the part of the mill management, the help appreciate it all the more.
Threatened by Fire. St. Catherine’s church was threatened by fire early on Thursday evening of last week. Fred Defoe, who was passing by, noticed a bright light in the cellar windows, and on looking the second time he saw that a fire was raging in the cellar. He raised an alarm and Thomas Danio, who was close by, telephoned to Capt. J. A. Healy, of the local fire department, who soon had the firemen on the scene. In the meantime many men and women had gathered, and by forming a bucket brigade, they helped keep the fire from spreading until the arrival of the hose wagon. The firemen worked quickly and well and soon had the fire under control before it did much damage to the upper part of the church. In half an hour the fire was all out, although watchers were kept in the church all night to see that it did not break out again. The damage, which includes the heating plant, will probably be $1000.
Celebrated. Palm Sunday was fittingly observed at St. Catherine’s church here on Sunday, when two masses were celebrated by the pastor, Rev. Edmund T. Schofield. The second mass was preceded by the blessing of the palms that were later distributed to the members of the congregation. This is the first time that mass had been celebrated in the church since the recent fire, and Rev. Schofield took occasion at this time to thank the members of the local fire department on their quick response to duty, and the capable manner in which they handled the fire. Of course the firemen deserve all the praise that has been given them, but in passing it is well to mention the good work performed by the residents of West Graniteville, who formed a bucket brigade and did valiant work before the arrival of the fire company.
Edward Hanley, of Forge Village, who is also captain of the John Edwards hose company of that place, was passing through on an electric car when the alarm was sounded, and was one of the first on the scene. He took in the situation at a glance, and securing an axe from a man that lived across the street, he broke in the front doors, and with the assistance of the men and women that were present, threw water on the main floor, where the flames had just begun to catch on the carpet. The men carried water and so did the women and girls, many of the latter carrying snow in their aprons to quench the flames.
Saturday, April 13, 1912
Center. Miss Delia Wheeler, who has spent the winter here, being with the late Mrs. John B. Fletcher until her death, and remaining in her home since, returned this week to her own home in Westminster.
On Sunday morning Rev. David Wallace will preach on “Sunday observance,” by request. The following Sunday he will exchange pulpits with Rev. E. C. Hayes, of Acton Center.
The Middlesex Union association of churches will hold its spring meeting on April 17, with the church in North Leominster.
Miss Gertrude Hamlin has been entertaining as a guest during her Easter vacation one of her Wellesley classmates.
Miss Doolittle, whose home is in New Jersey, is a guest of Miss Ella Hildreth at Prospect Hill farm [10 Hildreth St.] and was among those present at the Tadmuck club on Tuesday afternoon.
The Misses Sarah, Lillian and May Atwood are expected home this weekend from their extensive western trip of nearly five months.
Mrs. Cyril A. Blaney is seriously ill at her home and in the care of a trained nurse.
Grange. The regular meeting of the Westford grange took place at the town hall last week Thursday evening, conferring the first and second degrees on a class of five candidates and the annual inspection by a state deputy being the program for the evening.
Westford grange, in its seventeen years of existence, has had many good officers, but for an entire staff of good officers, the present one is certainly par excellence. With William R. Taylor, master, in charge, the various officers performed their duties on Thursday evening with dignity and efficiency. The remaining officers were John P. Wright, Mr. and Mrs. D. L. Greig, Perley E. Wright, Mrs. L. G. Lumbert, Benjamin Prescott, Sadie McMaster, Rachael Wall, Mrs. J. H. Colburn and Mrs. Ida M. Gould.
The inspecting deputy, Charles H. Preston, of Danvers, found the secretary’s and treasurer’s books in good condition and after the regular inspection complimented the different officers on their excellent work.
At the next meeting, April 18, the third and fourth degrees will be conferred, the third degree in charge of the ladies’ degree staff, and the fourth by the regular officers. Supper in charge of Mrs. L. W. Wheeler, Mrs. John McMaster and Mrs. A. W. Hartford. Visitors are welcome [this sentence pretty illegible].
Easter. Easter Sunday was most appropriately observed at the Congregational church, the theme of the resurrection being exemplified in music, prayer, sermon and decorations. The decorating was in charge of Eliot F. Humiston and was most skillfully done, the entire platform being banked with palms, geraniums and a central grouping of Easter lilies. Miss Grace Lumbert, as organist and choir director, gave a fine musical program as follows: Organ voluntary, Miss Lumbert; anthem, “This is the day,” invocation and Lord’s prayer, responsive reading, anthem, “Christ is risen,” Miss Pauline Wallace; solo, “The Lord has risen,” Miss Edna Ferguson. The subject of Mr. Wallace’s sermon was most appropriate, “The resurrection.”
At five o’clock a vesper Easter service took place which was well attended, and Miss Lumbert had arranged another excellent musical program with Mrs. Charles H. McIntire, contralto soloist, of Lowell, assisting. Mrs. McIntire has a rich-toned expressive voice and her several selections were much enjoyed. Miss Winnifred Burnham and Mrs. Charles D. Colburn were the other soloists.
Tadmuck Club. The regular meeting of the Tadmuck club took place in Library hall on Tuesday afternoon. It was to be regretted that owing to the week having various other claims upon the time and attention of the members, the attendance was not as good as usual. This was to be regretted, for Frank H. Hill, superintendent of schools, was the speaker of the afternoon, and gave an excellent address on “Work and play,” of course in reference to school children. Mr. Hill is a frank and progressive speaker and brought out some worthwhile points in cooperation between the home and school, and of some very practical ways that the knowledge obtained in school hours might be applied to the principles of daily living in the home. The part that play has in the child’s development and the spirit of good comradeship and fairness that should rule was sensibly elucidated.
A hearty vote of thanks was extended to Mr. Hill at the close of his address; also, some questions were asked and answered.
The committee on preliminary exercises had prepared for a timely and pleasing group of readings on spring.
The next meeting being the annual one, the president, Miss Loker, appointed a nominating committee to bring in a list of officers at that time for the coming year. Those to serve on this committee were Miss Clara Smith, Miss Florence Wilson, Mrs. J. Herbert Fletcher, Miss Mabel Drew, Miss Edith Lawrence.
Miss Hildreth, the vice president, introduced a plan wherein the club dues should be paid at the close of the season instead of at the opening of the next season. This plan is to be brought up for action at the next meeting.
Social. The regular monthly social and parish supper at the Congregational church took place on Wednesday evening under very pleasant conditions. This social had not been vividly proclaimed, for it was specially planned and carried out as a farewell testimonial and social for Mr. and Mrs. E. G. Boynton, who have so long been helpfully identified with the church’s interests, and whose departure from town to a new home in Winchester is so much regretted.
The vestry was made festive in appearance by using the potted plants used for the Easter decorations on Sunday. A pretty program of readings and music was given in which Mr. Boynton gave solos in his best voice. Mrs. Perley E. Wright’s readings were most enjoyable and all who sustained parts in the program seemed to give of their best. Following is the program: Piano solo, Sadie McMaster; readings, “Our minister’s sermons,” “Mrs. Murphy’s cake receipt,” Mrs. Wright; solos, Mrs. Charles D. Colburn and E. G. Boynton; reading, “Testing him out,” Mrs. Wright; solo, Miss Althea Symmes; piano solo, Miss Hazel Hartford. The accompanists for the singers were Miss Miranda G. Luce, Mrs. E. G. Boynton and Miss Grace Lumbert.
At the close of the program, Mr. Wallace, in well chosen words, presented Mr. and Mrs. Boynton with a gift, or rather gifts, for their new home. These articles had been chosen because the committee in charge knew they had expressed a wish for them. They consisted of a beautiful hand painted chocolate set; also, an ice cream set, and in addition a cracker jar of the same beautiful ware. Last, but not least, were some first quality aluminum utensils to delight the heart of just such a notable housewife as Mrs. Boynton—a large double boiler, two sets of gem tins, a saucepan, a frying pan and two sizes of cake tins completed this group. Both Mr. and Mrs. Boynton responded with such genuine appreciation, that all who took part in the gift were sure to be glad they were represented.
The salad supper earlier in the evening was well patronized and enjoyed by old and young.
Death. Academy principal, Dexter E. Coggshall and Mrs. Coggshall have met with a sad and crushing bereavement this week Tuesday afternoon in the death of their only child, Richard, who lacked but sixteen days of being two years old. At the last the child’s illness was short and critical, and all that skill and care could give could not overcome the obscure stomach trouble.
He was an especially bright and attractive baby, and the sincerest sympathy of the community goes out to Mr. and Mrs. Coggshall in their sorrow. A private funeral service was held from the home on Thursday afternoon at two o’clock, Rev. David Wallace officiating. Interment was in Fairview cemetery.
About Town. Herbert[?] L. Purnell[?] has moved into the Da[??] place[?] on the Lowell road and is working for the ?? ?? road department. [sentence is very illegible]
The John F. O’Brien place on the Providence road was sold last week at auction to Alec Fisher, who is having it repaired. When the repairs are completed it will be occupied by Mr. Goodwin, who has been employed by Abiel J. Abbot.
The Woman’s Alliance of the Unitarian church met last week with Mrs. J. Willard Fletcher, it being an all-day session. It was a generous time for service for the needs of those for whom the Alliance has a special mission. Mrs. Fletcher entertained with tact and liberality.
At the Unitarian church on Sunday, Rev. Lyman W. Weeks was eloquent and logical on the theme of Easter. The musical program was fitting to the occasion. Two anthems, “He that liveth,” and “Easter morn,” were sung with inspiring effect by the choir. Mrs. H. M. Seavey, Miss Gertrude Fletcher, Miss Julia Fletcher and Miss Eva Fletcher. The solos were sustained by Mrs. Seavey and Miss Gertrude Fletcher, and any who have heard them in solos know that it meaneth the close attention of the audience.
Lewis P. Hill died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Herbert E. Fletcher on Monday, at the age of 74 yrs. 10 mos. 15 days. The funeral took place from the residence of Hon. Herbert E. Fletcher on Wednesday afternoon. The funeral was private, and burial was in Fairview cemetery.
A large tree on the lot in Carlisle which was bought by Oscar R. Spalding was apparently larger than any of the famous Carlisle pines. It sawed 2800 feet of lumber and was one hundred feet tall.
T. E. Symmes and Henry J. Murphy are serving on jury duty.
Rev. Lyman W. Weeks, in a letter to the parish committee of the First Parish church, declines the recent call given him by the old historic church. He will remain with the church until Memorial Sunday, and possibly until the summer vacation.
Work at the H. E. Fletcher stone quarry will begin at seven o’clock with one hour at noon, quitting at four o’clock. This new time table gives an opportunity at the noon hour for ball games at Forge park, and several innings are held daily.
Debate Meeting. The West Chelmsford Debating society had a warm debate for a cold night and a warm subject: Resolved, “That electricity is superior to steam for the operation of power plants.” The affirmative led off with Harold H. Fletcher and James Peck as crack shots with an argument, and the negative steamed up with action, in defense of steam for motive power. The question was put to the house for arguments. A vote on the merits of the question was won by the affirmative, but on the merits of the argument the negative won by a margin of several votes. The negative speakers were Charles J. Martin and Robert Gunison. At the business meeting following the debate, an athletic society was formed. Charles J. Martin was chosen president and William Keenan as vice president and Charles J. Nystrum as secretary. William Donnelly, Arthur Anderson and James Dwyer were elected as board of directors. The newly elected officers of the debating society are: James Dwyer, pres.; Charles J. Martin, v.p.; Ralph Bickford, sec.; Robert J. Bell, treas.
Forge Village. A late electric will run from Ayer to Forge Village on Tuesday night, April 16, at eleven o’clock to accommodate those who are to attend “The country doctor,” given by Ayer grange in Page hall, Ayer, in which the Misses Letitia and Kathlyn Ward, of this village, are to take prominent parts.
Easter services were held at St. Andrew’s mission on Sunday morning. Holy communion was administered at 8:30 in the morning, Rev. A. L. Bumpus officiating. The church interior was beautifully decorated and the music by the vested choir was excellent. In the evening at 7:30 o’clock, evensong was held. A good congregation was present at both services.
Miss Christine Lowther has been confined to her home by a very severe cold.
Mrs. William Burnett, who has been ill, is now much better.
Little Miss Carmel Rose, of Belmont, is visiting her grandmother, Mrs. Elizabeth Splain.
Many from this village attended the Lenten devotions held on Good Friday night at St. Catherine’s church, West Graniteville, and heard a most eloquent sermon by Rev. M. E. Doherty which deeply touched his large audience.
Rev. Endicott Peabody, of Groton, conducted the Lenten devotions at the mission on Good Friday and Bishop [Julius Walter] Atwood [1857-1945], of Arizona, preached the sermon. Bishop Atwood is at present the guest of Rev. Peabody at Groton.
Mrs. Georgiana Benoit, together with her son, Silva, and daughter, Hannah, are at Three Rivers, Canada, on a lengthy visit.
Alvin S. Bennett is the guest of his brother, John Bennett, of Worcester.
Mrs. Teele, of Methuen, was the guest of Mr. and Mrs. William Burnett on Wednesday.
Mr. and Mrs. William Daly, of Boston, are visiting their aunt, Mrs. James Sullivan, of Pleasant street.
Mrs. Michael Keefe, of Townsend Harbor, spent Sunday with her sister, Mrs. John Carmichael.
James Carmichael, of Lowell, is setting out an orchard of young trees on his property in the village.
Cards are out for the wedding of Miss E. Marion Sweatt, of this village, to Dr. J. D. Christie, of Littleton, to be held at St. Andrew’s mission on Wednesday evening, April 24, at 6:30 o’clock.
Mrs. Chester Watson, formerly Miss Della Wilkinson, of this village, is now confined to the Groton hospital.
Miss Emma Holt, of Andover, was the guest of her aunt, Mrs. R. D. Prescott, over the Easter holidays.
Hugh Daly and family have removed into their new tenement on Pleasant street.
William Blodgett, of Graniteville, has moved his household goods to the home of his father on Pleasant street, where he will reside in the future.
Mrs. Chester Blodgett, together with Mrs. Charles Blodgett and daughter Florence, were guests of Mr. and Mrs. William Burnett on Wednesday.
Mrs. William Blodgett and children spent Wednesday with her sister, Mrs. James Whigham, of Orchard street.
Thomas Kitchen and George Sykes, of Valley Fields, Canada, were recent visitors at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Catchpole. Mr. Kitchen is a brother of Mrs. Catchpole’s, and this is his first visit to the states since he left, twenty-seven years ago. His many relatives and friends are planning on giving him a most enjoyable time during his stay.
James Cummings, of New Bedford, sails on Tuesday, April 16, on the S.S. Franconia for England, where he goes for his health. Mr. Cummings, since the death of his wife, who was formerly Miss Nellie Stubbs, of this village, has been far from well, and it is hoped that this trip abroad will be of much benefit to him. His little daughter is being cared for by his parents at their home in New Bedford.
Although we have had a few spring-like days, still the snowbirds are seen in large numbers about Cameron park, and the question is asked on all sides: “Do snowbirds mean more snow?” Judging, however, by the boys at baseball, and the girls skipping rope, spring certainly cannot be afar off.
The Ladies’ Sewing circle held their regular meeting in Recreation hall on Thursday afternoon. In the future the meetings will be held on Thursday afternoons instead of on Wednesday, as formerly.
Mrs. Henry Tyler [nee Alice E. Weaver] and daughter Elsie, of Worcester, are visiting at the home of Mrs. Tyler’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Weaver, of Pond street.
Graniteville. Mrs. Annie Burgess, of Damariscotta, Me., has been a recent guest of Dr. and Mrs. W. H. Sherman.
The regular meeting of Cameron Circle, C.F. of A., was held in their rooms in Healy hall on last Tuesday evening, and was well attended. Business of importance was transacted, after which a social hour was enjoyed.
The juvenile baseball club known as the White Sox will open the baseball season here on April 20, with the Mystics of North Chelmsford as their opponents.
Easter Services. The Easter services at the M.E. church, both in the morning and evening, were unusually largely attended. Aside from the significance of the day, this was the last time that the parishioners would have their pastor, Rev. Lewis F. Havermale, with them. During his stay here, Mr. Havermale has made many converts and formed many warm friendships, and it is with deep regret that the members of the church and the Graniteville people in general feel called upon to say farewell to one whom they hold in such high esteem. He certainly had done good work here, and arranged the affairs of the parish in a manner that left nothing to be desired. He met every situation faithfully and fearlessly, and may success crown his efforts in his new field of endeavor is the sincere wish of his many friends.
The church was beautifully decorated with flowers, which added greatly to the Easter services. The following is the program of the morning service:
Organ voluntary, Albert Day; responsive reading, congregation; anthem, “The king of Easter day,” choir; prayer, pastor; “Easter hymn,” congregation; solo, “The holy city,” Miss Alice May Gilson; baptismal service; anthem, “O risen Lord,” choir; reception to members; the holy Eucharist; benediction.
Three adults were baptized and six received into full membership in the church.
Mr. Havermale departed from Boston on last Wednesday and after a short visit with his parents at Canton, Ill., will assume pastoral duties at Alpha, Ill. The proximity of his field of work to his home is very acceptable to him, inasmuch as within a very few years he expects to be appointed to work in the Orient. The courtesy and constant kindness shown to him by the people of the associated villages of Westford have been sincerely appreciated by him, and will long be remembered with pleasure.
The glorious festival of Easter was fittingly observed in St. Catherine’s church on Sunday morning when two masses were celebrated by Rev. M. E. Doherty, both of which were largely attended. The low mass was celebrated at 8:45 and this was followed by a high mass at 10:30. At the high mass the celebrant, Rev. Doherty, made the service very impressive, and was ably assisted by the choir, who sung Blasel’s mass in a very effective manner. The singing was unusually good, and showed the result of careful training. The difficult passages of this tuneful mass were brought out with telling effect, particularly in the Agnus Dei and the Benedictus, with apparently no individual effort, for all blended in a harmonious whole which made the result very pleasing. The solos were sustained by Miss Sadie Smith and Miss Mary Gardner. Miss Mary F. Hanley presided at the organ.
Mr. Doherty delivered an eloquent sermon on “The resurrection,” which made a deep impression on the large congregation present. The altar was tastefully arranged with beautiful Easter lilies and cut flowers, which added in a great measure to the festival service of Easter.
Ayer. Silas N. Stone has sold his farm and about one hundred hens on Harvard street to Edmund J. Vladish, of Turner’s Falls. Mr. Vladish is to make extensive repairs and will move here the last of April. Mr. Stone will move into his house across the common, where he lives. The sale was made by Fred A. Smith, who is local agent for P. F. Leland’s real estate office. By this sale a young couple has been added to our town.
Saturday, April 20, 1912
Center. Mr. and Mrs. Dexter Coggshall went, after the burial of their baby boy on Thursday of last week, to stay for the rest of the week with their Melrose relatives. Mr. Coggshall resumed his school duties on Monday morning.
Miss Hazel Hartford has been on the sick list and under the doctor’s care this week with tonsillitis.
Mrs. H. N. Jaques and daughter Dorothy have been spending the week at the parental home with Mr. and Mrs. William Sutherland.
Mrs. Cyril A. Blaney, who has been seriously ill with pneumonia, is now convalescing.
Miss Henrietta Eidenbach, of New York, is a guest at Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Colburn’s.
Master Morton Seavey, who is convalescing from his recent illness, has been spending the week with his grandmother in Cambridge.
At the meeting of the Tadmuck club on next Tuesday afternoon, Miss Edith Lawrence and Miss Bertha Norris will have charge of the program with James Whitcomb Riley and Eugene Field for their subjects. This will also be the annual business meeting.
The greenhouse, which has so long stood on the grounds of John C. Abbot’s residence [45 Main St.], is being removed. A. A. Hildreth has bought the same and is having it moved to his home on Concord road [No. 110], where he intends using it for his market gardening activities. The former location of the greenhouse on Mr. Abbot’s grounds is to be converted into a tennis court.
H. G. Osgood has been having a summer house erected on the lawn in front of his house.
Rev. E. C. Hayes, of Acton, will occupy the pulpit at the Congregational church on Sunday morning in exchange with Rev. David Wallace.
L. W. Wheeler represented the local church at the Congregational Union association of churches, which held its spring meeting at North Leominster on Wednesday.
Conductor Walter Cutler, of our branch line, had a two-days’ absence from duty on Tuesday and Wednesday and visited friends in Boston.
Mrs. Mary Fletcher has been able some of these pleasant days to get out and see her neighbors after being shut in for several months.
Workmen are busy at Whitney park getting it in order for the season.
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Fisher attended the wedding of friends at Swampscott on Wednesday of this week.
Some of our enterprising youths have formed a baseball nine and expect to participate in some good games on the home field at Whitney park and in the adjacent towns. These boys are all under seventeen years of age. The manager is Nicholas Socarelis and the captain is Frank Blaisdell. They will have a practice game on Friday at the playground and on Saturday will have their opening game for the season with the Y.M.C.A. team of Lowell.
Miss Hannah Morrill and Mrs. Hills, of Amesbury, are guests at Dr. and Mrs. Wells.
About Town. George H. Burke has bought a farm of twenty-two acres on the Dunstable road in Chelmsford, between Flint’s corner and North Chelmsford. The house will be remodeled to modern conditions and when that is finished some one and some other one will occupy it. At present George is as in the past of the singular number. That house remodeling hints at plurality. George will be missed in North Westford as one of the sober, sensible, economical, quiet business young men of that hilly, rocky whereabouts region. He is a member of Westford grange, but has found important inducements in Tyngsboro grange.
Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Benjamin, of West Somerville, have named it Walter Prescott, and according to Fairbanks’ scales it weighs nine and one-half pounds. Date, Tuesday morning, April 9. Mrs. Benjamin was formerly Miss Bertha Prescott, of Chamberlin’s corner, Westford, and pleasantly remembered by a host of schoolmates and youthful friends of the old Stony Brook district and Westford academy.
The Westford A.A. will hold its annual meeting for the election of officers on next Tuesday evening at the town hall. Arrangements will be made at this meeting for ball games this season, if this season is to have any games.
The following persons were chosen as delegates on Sunday to represent the First Parish at the annual meeting of the American Unitarian society at the May meetings: Charles O. Prescott, Mrs. H. V. Hildreth; alternates, Edward Fisher and Mrs. J. Herbert Fletcher.
Westford academy and Littleton high have made arrangements to run a series of baseball games this season. Part of the games will be played on the Whitney park.
At the Unitarian church on Sunday Rev. Lyman B. Weeks will speak on “How Titan overcame the Titanic.” He is especially anxious for the young people to be present. He writes: “The young people should especially be interested in a subject so appalling to the world.”
The alumni of Westford academy are making early preparations for the annual meeting and banquet to take place on June 28. This is one of those good time gatherings that brings to review the happy days and scenes of the historic Westford academy. An effort is to be made to secure a larger membership for the Alumni association. Judge F. A. Fisher, of Lowell, is president; H. V. Hildreth, vice pres.; Miss Mabel Drew, secretary. The committee in charge of the June celebration is Mrs. H. V. Hildreth, Arthur Hildreth and Seth Bannister.
Rev. Lyman B. Weeks was warmly eloquent on Sunday on the subject, “Religion and life,” maintaining that there was too much religion and too little life. If any failed to comprehend the distinction that he drew, he stands ready to give a personal interview.
Foxes are plenty in the Stony Brook valley, being extensively engaged in the poultry business. Anyone having poultry that they wish to dispose of will find them early daylight customers.
Dr. Fred Leon Gage and Miss Alice Lund Livingstone were married on Wednesday evening in Grace Universalist church, Lowell, by Rev. Ransom A. Green. Both parties are well-known to Westford people in social gatherings. Westford was well represented among the invited guests.
George W. Bussey, who has been ill for a long time, is still very feeble and suffered a serious relapse last week, but has rallied back to his usual feeble condition.
George W. Hunt, of Tyngsboro, was a visitor in town on Sunday, calling upon his cousin, William Kelly who is temporarily stopping in town in an endeavor to induce the contagious health of the Westford hills to strike him. It has hit some, but more is desirable.
Alister McDougal, a student at the Massachusetts Agricultural college, was selected by the faculty of the college to give a lecture before the Maine Agricultural college.
Minnie Whitney was operated upon Thursday of last week by Dr. Blaney for intestinal trouble.
Successful Affair. The annual fair of the Unitarian society was held at the town hall last week Friday afternoon and evening. The hall was elaborately decorated for the occasion. The gentlemen’s table was trimmed to attract the passer-by, to pause and purchase from the variety of salable goods. The table carried a large display of gentlemen’s furnishings, the color scheme carried out being green and yellow. The mystery, candy and food tables were tastefully decked with green and yellow paper. The grabs were arranged in a flower trimmed basket, and was tended by Marjorie Seavey.
During the afternoon and evening, ice cream and cake were on sale, and supper was served from six to 7:30 o’clock, which was followed by the farce, “The snowcap sisters,” given by local talent. Mrs. O. A. Foster took the part of the Snowcap mother, and her twelve children were taken by the following: Miss Mary Balch, Miss Maybelle Drew, Mrs. H. B. Read, Miss Edith Foster, Miss Emily Fletcher, Miss Clara Smith, Miss Julia Fletcher, Miss Grace Bennett, Miss Clara Fisher, Miss Edith Lawrence, Miss Lillian Sutherland, and Charles Goodwin, as donkey boy, made quite a hit. All the Snowcap children were of uncertain age, and their make-ups attractively humorous.
Many talents were represented—the artist, prima donna, poetess, woman’s rights, elocutionist, the deaf and dumb, the little French and celestial sisters and the twins, the parts being well taken by Miss Emily Fletcher and Miss Clara Smith. Each daughter was “showed off” to the best advantage as the mother brought them down from Snowcap mountain to find them their husbands. All the parts were well taken and full of merriment. The farce was followed by dancing. The following served on the various committees:
Fancy table—Miss Grace Burbeck, Miss Mary Burbeck, Mrs. H. B. Read, Mrs. Virgil Mitchell and the Misses Gertrude and Julia Fletcher.
Apron and domestic table—Mrs. O. R. Spalding, Mrs. H. V. Hildreth, Mrs. Edward Fisher, Miss Clara Fisher, Miss Grace Bennett and Mrs. Ruth Bineault.
Mystery table—Miss Lillian Sutherland, Miss Beatrice Sutherland and Miss Evelyn Hamlin.
Supper—Mrs. John Feeney, Mrs. H. V. Hildreth, Miss Eva Fletcher and Miss Mary Moran.
Ice cream—Mrs. Frank Miller and Mrs. Alex McDougal.
Gentlemen’s table—The Gentlemen’s club of the church.
Grab bag—Mrs. H. M. Seavey, Miss Marjory Seavey and the Misses Marjory and Eleanor Cameron.
Candy table—Miss Mabel Drew, Miss Agnes Balch and Miss Gladys Fletcher.
Food table—Mrs. J. Herbert Fletcher, Mrs. A. H. Sutherland and Mrs. Chas. Hamlin.
Entertainment—Miss Mary Balch and Miss Edith Forster.
The financial part of this annual fair was the most successful and important part, and it is expected to net about two hundred dollars, or over.
Bridge Widening. Material has arrived for widening the bridge on the Stony Brook railroad that spans the Stony Brook highway midway between Westford station and Brookside. This bridge was given a view and hearing by the county commissioners nearly a year ago, and the bridge has been under temporary supports ever since with lanterns at night and the public have been wondering what has become of the hearing, but Wednesday morning a work train brought car loads of sand and gravel for the cement work and the hearing has been heard from. The present wooden structure will be replaced by a modern steel bridge, wide enough for double tracking the road.
Forge Village. Mr. and Mrs. Fred Naylor, of Pine hill, are rejoicing over the arrival of a little daughter at their home on April 14 [Ruth Naylor born April 13, 1912, per the Westford vital records].
Mrs. Joseph Mason and children, of Lowell, visited at the home of her father, Mrs. Henry Catchpole, on Friday and Saturday of last week.
Mrs. Albert B. Jones, of Worcester, visited relatives here on Tuesday and Wednesday.
The first baseball game of the season was held in Cameron Park last Saturday afternoon between the Tigers of this village and the St. Mary’s, Ayer, with the score 15 to 13. Boucher and DeRoehn formed the battery for the Tigers, and Ernie and Curley for the St. Mary’s team. This Saturday the Tigers will play a return game.
Mrs. Arthur B. Parrott is ill at her home on Beaver Brook road. Dr. W. H. Sherman, of Graniteville, is in attendance.
Julian Cameron, of Abbot Worsted Company, has donated the use of a strip of land in Pine street to Cameron school for the purpose of a vegetable garden. The land will be ploughed and ready for planting shortly. The principal, Miss Letitia V. Ward, will have charge of the garden, and will direct the work for the children.
Miss Mabel Wyman, of Camden, N.J., grandchild of Mr. and Mrs. William Burnett, of Pleasant street, has been awarded one of the prizes given by the West Jersey Trust Company in its composition writing contest on “Why we should save.” Little Miss Wyman is in the sixth grade in the Lincoln school, Camden, and is twelve years of age.
The Abbot Worsted Company has begun spring improvements on its land, work being done by Bert Comey, who has done the landscape gardening formerly.
Miss May Lord, of South Framingham, has been a recent visitor at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. David Lord, of Pleasant street.
Miss Carmel and Master Ellworth [sic] Rose are enjoying their vacation at the home of their grandmother, Mrs. Elizabeth Splain.
Successful Affair. Abbot hall was packed to its doors on last week Friday evening, when the Forge Village Dramatic club, composed of village young people, presented the one-act comedy “A thorn among the roses.” A short concert followed and was heartily encored. All did excellent work and the members of the club are to be congratulated on the work done. Ice Cream and cake were served during intermission, after which dancing was enjoyed to the music of the Precious orchestra. A large sum was netted from the affair, which will be used for the benefit of Miss Ellen McMurray, an invalid for many years, who makes her home with her niece, Mrs. Robert Orr, of Pond street. Miss Theresa Lowther was general manager and spared no pains to make the affair the success it was.
Surprise Party. A very pleasant surprise party was given at the hall in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Chester Blodgett of Groton Ridges in honor of the twenty-first anniversary of the birth of Miss Emma Blodgett, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Blodgett, of Groton. The young people gathered at the home of Miss Blodgett’s parents and awaited her arrival from Groton Center, where she had been sent to spend the day. After her coming, the merry party walked to the Ridges hall and there presented Miss Emma with a beautiful solid gold locket and chain, and a large bouquet of cut flowers. Mrs. John E. Burnett, of this village, made the presentation speech in behalf of the many friends and relatives. Miss Blodgett was too overcome to respond, but afterwards extended her thanks and assisted in entertaining the rest of the evening.
Games and dancing was [sic] enjoyed until a late hour. John Spinner, jr., won first prize for pinning on the donkey’s tail, and Albert Duffy won the booby prize. Refreshments were served by Mrs. Chester Blodgett, Mrs. Charles Blodgett and Mrs. William Blodgett, all aunts of Miss Blodgett.
Graniteville. Owing to the absence of Rev. L. F. Havermale, who has recently resigned his pastorate here, and it being conference week, there were no services held in the M.E. church here on last Sunday.
F. G. Sullivan and R. J. Hemen, chief ranger and past chief ranger, respectively, of Court Graniteville, F. of A., who are delegates to the annual convention to be held in North Adams next month, attended a delegates’ meeting in Gardner on last Sunday.
Reports from the Burbank hospital at Fitchburg, where Thomas J. Healy is confined as a result of an accident received at the freight yards in Ayer on Thursday night of last week, are to the effect that the injured young man had his left leg amputated above the knee by the house surgeon, assisted by Dr. Leo Sullivan of Ayer. The operation was successful in every way and no serious results are anticipated.
Miss Lillian Moran, the well-known vocalist of this village, has been selected to portray the part of “Sylvia” in the operetta of that name, to be given under the auspices of St. Catherine’s church choir in the near future. James A. Murphy, of Lowell, is the musical director and the piece will be staged under the direction of Joseph Wall.
The White Sox baseball club, with their new uniforms, will open the season here this Saturday afternoon when they will have the Mystics, of North Chelmsford, for their opponents.
Death. Miss Anna Harrington, a well-known and highly esteemed young woman of this village, died at the home of her sister, Mrs. Henry J. Healy [nee Marguerita Harrington], here early last Sunday morning, after a lingering illness, at the age of twenty-nine years. She leaves to mourn her loss one brother, Henry Harrington, the well-known contractor, two sisters, Miss Mary Harrington and Mrs. Henry J. Healy, all of this village, numerous relatives in Lowell and Leominster, as well as a wide circle of friends. Anna was a great sufferer during her long illness, all of which she bore with great patience and Christian fortitude, and her death will be greatly regretted by all who enjoyed the pleasure of her pleasing personality.
The funeral took place from the home of her sister, Mrs. Healy, on Tuesday morning at 9:30 o’clock and was largely attended. At ten o’clock a funeral mass for the repose of her soul was celebrated in St. Catherine’s church by Rev. M. E. Doherty. The regular choir was in attendance, and under the direction of Miss Mary F. Hanley, rendered the Gregorian chant, the solos being sustained by Miss Hanley, who also presided at the organ. As the casket was being borne from the church the De Profundis was sung by the choir.
There were many beautiful floral tributes which testified in a marked degree to the high esteem in which the deceased was held by her many friends. The services at the church were largely attended and aside from those present in the immediate vicinity, relatives and friends were present from Lowell, Leominster, Tyngsboro, Chelmsford and surrounding towns. The bearers were J. Austin Healy, William L. Wall, Edward Riney, Frank Charlton, James R. Healy and F. G. Sullivan. Burial was in St. Catherine’s cemetery in this village.
Saturday, April 27, 1912
About Town. The next meeting of the Middlesex North Pomona grange will be held at the old stand, Odd Fellows’ hall, Bridge street, Lowell, on Friday, May 3. As this will probably be the last meeting of the season, try and notify yourself to be present.
The next meeting of Westford grange will be held on next Thursday evening. Edward E. Chapman, state overseer, will give a talk entertainment, at which he is always in an overflow mood.
The West Chelmsford Debating society will give a debatable entertainment at the Historic hall on next Tuesday evening on the following question: Resolved, “That a large navy is advantageous to the United States.” Affirmative, Samuel Naylor and Clarence Spalding; negative, William Newbold and Samuel L. Taylor. The debating society is in a prosperous condition, financially and talkatively.
The personal property belonging to the Bunce farm [110 Providence Rd.] was sold at auction last week Wednesday. Bidding was of the “last chance, last call” style of pushing right along. Prices were satisfactory, but the weather was not and took a chill and rained, which interfered with attendance, which made all the bidding fall upon a few, but they stood to the task until the finish.
George E. Gould has purchased one of the finest summer resorts on the banks of the Merrimack river, midway between Lowell and Lawrence, on line of electric cars and the new state highway. His purchase commands the finest view of the river and its surroundings of any in that vicinity. Mr. Gould expects to leave town as soon as time will allow him to gather his large assortment of personal property into a movable condition. Mr. Gould will be missed in the activities of the town, where he has lived these many years, although these many years have left him more youthful than his years. As a courteous, accommodating citizen, ready to pitch in and help, and the genius to fit to any task, he certainly will be missed.
Many wagon loads of nursery stock arrived at the Read farm [164 Main St.] on Wednesday, it being the largest order sent in by George A. Drew, the present owner of the farm. It was delivered at Westford depot and thence by team to the farm. By the number and size of the loads, it looks as though the open spaces on Francis hill would be well provided for.
More material has arrived for rebuilding the railroad bridge over the Stony Brook highway. Within a few days the present bridge has been strengthened by additional heavy timbers, preparatory to removing part of the bridge. Just what effect the decision not to double track the road this season will have on the plans of the new bridge is not quite certain.
At a meeting of the Unitarian society held in the vestry of the church on last Saturday evening, a letter was read from Rev. Lyman B. Weeks, announcing his reconsideration of declining the call of the church, and his final acceptance of the unanimous call. It is expected that Mr. and Mrs. Weeks will move to Westford as soon as satisfactory arrangements can be made.
Center. The many Westford village friends of Miss E. Marion Sweatt, whose marriage to Dr. Christie, of Littleton, took place this week, extend to her very sincere wishes for happiness and prosperity in her new life.
Mr. and Mrs. John Bright, of South Royalton, Vt., are visiting at the home of their daughter, Mrs. John P. Wright.
Walter J. Merritt is grading and having the surroundings of the two new houses recently built by him made attractive.
The first trip on our branch line failed to make good on Wednesday morning, and those who regularly depend upon it had to walk to Westford depot. This is something that has not happened in a long time, and later it proved that we were no worse off than the main line cars, who, owing to trouble with the power, were tied up for a time.
William L. Woods is improving his buildings with new paint in most attractive colorings. Joseph Wall and son are wielding the brushes.
Workmen have repaired and painted the flag pole on the academy building and a fine new flag has been unfurled to the breeze.
Walter Cutter and family are to vacate the house they have occupied, owned by O. R. Spalding, since they first came to town. Mr. Spalding plans some extensive changes in the house. The only choice for the Cutters is the John O’Brien cottage recently bought and renovated by Alec Fisher. Being out of the village it will not be as convenient for our obliging and faithful conductor, and it is to be regretted that any sort of village tenement is not available.
Mr. and Mrs. Will R. Carver are having the house recently bought by them, and familiarly known as the Bean cottage [14 Depot St.], fitted up into a pretty summer home.
At the Congregational church last Sunday morning Rev. David Wallace preached an excellent sermon on “Lessons drawn from the great sea tragedy of the loss of the Titanic,” 0) { referrer_url = document.referrer; } const params = location.search.slice(1).split('&').reduce((acc, s) => { const [k, v] = s.split('=') return Object.assign(acc, {[k]: v}) }, {}) const url = "https://museum.westford.org/wp-json/iawp/search" const body = { referrer_url, utm_source: params.utm_source, utm_medium: params.utm_medium, utm_campaign: params.utm_campaign, utm_term: params.utm_term, utm_content: params.utm_content, gclid: params.gclid, ...{"payload":{"resource":"singular","singular_id":1706,"page":1},"signature":"cf583d3c659bc088715aa12d35a4d287"} } const xhr = new XMLHttpRequest() xhr.open("POST", url, true) xhr.setRequestHeader("Content-Type", "application/json;charset=UTF-8") xhr.send(JSON.stringify(body)) }) })();