The Westford Wardsman, March, 1910
Saturday, March 5, 1910
Center. It has been decided that it will not be necessary to close the library this year for the annual cleaning of the building and the enumeration of books.
Mr. and Mrs. Eliot F. Humiston were in Boston last Saturday and enjoyed grand opera.
H. L. Wright spent last Sunday with the Henry M. Wright’s at Quincy, and while there attended the Washington Street Congregational church, which is Mr. Marshall’s new charge. He reports a large congregation, a pretty church and that the Marshall’s new home is very pleasant, quite a model of comfort and convenience.
Our faithful village nurse, Miss Mary Morin, has reversed the usual order of things, and been the sick one herself this past week with a hard cold and a touch of pleurisy, requiring medical help, but is now nearly back to her own vigorous, normal self.
Charles L. Hildreth has been confined to his home on Boston road this past week with an attack of the grippe.
Edward M. Abbot Hose Co. held their regular monthly meeting at their headquarters, Tuesday evening. An excellent supper was enjoyed by all, the committee in charge being William L. Woods, John Feeney and Edward Clement.
Rev. Mr. Wallace preached an excellent sermon to a large congregation Sunday morning, a well elucidated discourse upon the difference between merely making a living and making a life. It was practical and helpful to a degree without being commonplace. The topic was based in thoughts from Christ’s call to Zaccheus [Luke 19:1-10]. The new pastor and his family are getting nicely settled at the parsonage and the two daughters have become enrolled as pupils at the Frost school.
Miss Nellie Fletcher is convalescent from an attack of grippe.
Our townsman, Donald M. Cameron, who is spending the winter with his family in Lowell, goes this month with other friends from New York for a trip through the Spanish main. They will visit Kingston in Jamaica, Colon in Panama, Port Limon in Costa Rica, and will land at New Orleans, making the journey northward by rail.
Miss Edna Ferguson returned to her teaching in Beverly, after being detained at home for two weeks with a serious cold.
Weather and traveling and the all prevalent colds were causes for postponing the meeting of the W.C.T.U., Wednesday afternoon, at Mrs. E. J. Whitney’s for one week at the same time and place.
Miss Eva E. Fletcher, who underwent an operation for appendicitis last week Wednesday, at the Lowell hospital, is making most satisfactory progress toward recovery, and may be able to return home in another week. She has been the recipient of many kindly expressions of sympathy in the way of letters, flowers, etc., which is just a happy reflex action of the thoughtfulness she has always extended to others in times of suffering or trial.
Death. Mrs. G. W. Goode has the sympathy of her many Westford friends in her bereavement in the loss of her good mother, Mrs. Sarah C. Litchfield, who died at her home in Chelmsford this past week. Mrs. Littlefield formerly lived in Westford with her husband, the late Paul Litchfield, and they were regular attendants at the Congregational church.
It was always a pleasure to meet Mrs. Litchfield with her fine presence and gracious, intelligent personality, and her loss will be keenly felt in the family circle and by her other friends. The immediate cause of her death was from heart failure. The funeral was from her late home in Chelmsford, Wednesday, and was attended by a number for friends from Westford.
Tadmuck Club. The Tadmuck club held its regular bi-monthly meeting Tuesday afternoon, at Library hall. The program for the afternoon was the last one in the season’s story of Alaska, which the members certainly feel have proven instructive and valuable. Mrs. L. W. Wheeler was in charge of the afternoon and gave a paper on “Ten years of progress in Alaska,” showing the remarkable development of this country along all lines in one brief decade. L. W. Wheeler gave an interesting sketch of the work of Dr. Sheldon Jackson and his introduction of reindeer into Alaska.
Mrs. Wheeler prefaced the program by reciting a group of short poems, “Life’s mirror,” “The fool’s prayer,” and “To the fringed gentian.” The next meeting, March 10, will be in charge of Miss Martha Taylor. This was to have been Mr. Marshall’s afternoon, but owing to his going from town Miss Taylor has kindly consented to take the afternoon, the subject of which will be given in next week’s Wardsman.
The club voted to send remembrances in the shape of flowers and a letter to Miss Fletcher at the hospital.
About Town. As usual the Friday evening entertainment at the vestry of the Unitarian church in attendance and liberality in its incoming cash was satisfactory. The supper was one of the satisfactory features as of old they have ever been at this religious hotel. Lowell contributed its Cecelia ladies’ orchestra, that made all who love music continue in that love. Westford contributed its talented reader and impersonator, Miss May Balch, who impressed all with “Easy isn’t it if you only have the talent.” Littleton contributed thirty-two folks, several horses and a barge. Westford contributed its managers for the evening, Miss May Balch, Mrs. Lizzie Hamlin, Mrs. J. Herbert Fletcher, who made the evening a great success.
At a meeting of the republican town committee, Monday evening, it was voted to hold a caucus for the nomination of candidates for town officers next Monday evening, March 7, at the town hall at 7:30. Following close on this wise and timely essential to government, the democrat caucus will be held the Tuesday evening following, March 8. The annual slate-making is already under way subject to revision by the caucuses.
The contest at the recent Farmers’ Institute at Littleton and Westford, the first prize was awarded to Vernon Fletcher of the Sargent school, Graniteville. He is a son of Harry N. Fletcher, the well-known stone contractor. The contestants from the academy at Westford decided not to be contestants ere the dawning of the day had established itself. Thus is the profundity of their ability unmeasured by competition. It is quite well; it will gain and keep, and as there are no past, present or future days but one eternal today, time is in no hurry. Why should the scholars be?
The Cavalry association held a business meeting, Saturday afternoon, at the rooms of its charming sunny environment on Boston road. Several names were voted on as members of the association and accepted. The regulations of the association were changed by vote of the meeting, which allows the association building open every Saturday afternoon and evening until 11:30, at the expense of the association. Those desiring the stimulus of recreation from these guarded and housed environments, as in dancing must pay the fiddler. It was unanimously voted to allow the free use of Cavalry building to the Westford Veterans’ association.
Councilor Fletcher is reported ill at his home on Oak hill. This is the real out-door busy spot of Westford for all grades of labor from brain to muscle, and the doctor has his occasional turn at affairs in the make-up of this industry.
Henry Smith, the superintendent for Abbot & Co. at Graniteville, thinks he was the first to thaw out winter for spring plantings, and succeeded in coaxing the ground to receive the first planting of peas of the season last Saturday, February 26. As he is competing with the writer for first place in early peas, there is no telling how much in advance of last Saturday’s planting one is. Suffice it to say, none of your New Jersey, California flank movements for early peas as last year, but a real frozen ground February contest.
Agnes A. Profit, the seven-months-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William A. Profit, died at her home, Sunday, at the residence of William H. Deckler on the Littleton road. The funeral was held Wednesday and burial was in the Fairview cemetery, under the direction of Undertaker David L. Greig.
Gaspard Dezrele has closed his home on Lowell road and moved his family to Lowell. He still continues to work at Abbot’s mills at Forge Village.
Money for Town Expenses. The financial committee have completed their estimates of amounts of money necessary for town expenses for the coming year. The writer has not seen the report, but authority says the totals foot up $36,000, or $6,000 more than last year. Among the recommendations by the committee for raising money is $500 for the observance of Memorial day. This day will be observed for the dedication of the Soldiers’ monument, the gift of Col. Edwin D. Metcalf, a former resident of the town. The day means much. It means a loyal appreciation of those who left the rural pursuits of the town for the perils of soldier life with its Libby prisons, impaired health and the early grave. This appropriation carries with it the usual exercises on such occasions. Oration probably by Ex-Gov. John D. Long; music, instrumental and vocal, and the ever-apt and appetizing dinner with the after reflections of wit and wise thought. The generosity of the soldier with his life, whose presence we greet no more in visible form as well as those living in our midst with the evidence of a war record, should make us all generous with the day in appropriate exercises and resources, without even the objections of that isolated individual ready tongued, “No.”
Electric Power. Something doing on Oak hill at all times and new at that. Just now it is more power, not individual power direct, but directed. With increased business comes increased machinery, which must have more power, which brings up at the point of beginning—power. The steam power plant at Oak hill stone quarry is to have electricity as an associate, and the H. E. Fletcher & Co. ever busy stone contractors have contracted with the Lowell Electric Light Company to furnish electricity for power, and the poles for the wires are already being established in the earth. With steam, electricity, improved machinery and well-equipped personalities to press the button, the life of Oak hill is well lit up and is free from the grouping of candle-light power.
Best of the Season. The Fortnightly club held the most interesting meeting of the season last week Friday evening. It was a regular costume party of songs and impersonations:
Reading, Mrs. Walter Wyman; living picture, “A lady of olden times,” Mrs. Lillian Snow; song, Horace Gould; recitation, Anna Wyman; recitation, “Rosa Lee, Dorothy Skidder and uncle Rastus,” by Misses Stella Glinn, Lillian Wright and Mark Morrison; living picture, “A society lady of the olden times,” Miss Katie Burke; song, Everett Woods; reading, Mrs. Elizabeth Wyman; “The three fates,” Miss Stella Glinn, Lillian Wright and Mrs. Alma L. Gould; reading, Mrs. Alice Lambert; sunflower chorus, six darkies; song, Mark Morrison; dialog, Morris Brown, Mark Morrison, Everett Woods and Mr. Anderson; phonograph selections, J. B. Ward; tableaux, “Good night,” Bernice Upton Snow; sunflower chorus, William Wyman, Edwin Gould, Carl Wright, Charles Blodgett, Fred Blodgett and Edward Gamlin. For youth in old age, Mark Morrison, eighty years old seemed to be there all right blacked up as darkie. The committee in charge were Mrs. Horace Gould, Miss Lillian Wright and Charles Blodgett.
The next meeting will be held next Friday evening, when De Lacy Corkum of Billerica will be present, and do the act of talking in long metre.
Basket Ball. The Westford Academy basket ball team defeated the Shirley high school team last Saturday afternoon at Shirley, scoring 26 to 6. Judges of the sportive element of life, who were close witnesses of this contest, concede that the Westford team outclassed in speed and training the Shirley team. The noticeable feature of the game was the work of Feeney, Banister and Walkden, and the rapidity of perpetual motion of the Tallant brothers for the Westford team. For Shirley the work of Miner, Wells and Evans excelled. The following is the lineup of the two teams:
WESTFORD | SHIRLEY |
Banister, rf | rb, Evans |
Feeney, lf | lb, Weeks |
A. Talent, c. | c, Hooper |
Walkden, lb | rf, Wells |
S. Talent, rb | lf, Miner |
Goals from the floor, Feeney 4, Banister 5. Goals from fouls, Walkden 2, Banister 4. Goals for Shirley, Evans 2, Hooper 1. Referee, Weeks. Timer, Wills.
It can be seen that the Shirley team is a Miner team that will take Weeks to Hooper up to the Tallant of the Westford team.
Next Saturday the second team of the academy will meet the Shirley high, and the academy first team will try something more to their speed and size with the Shirley A. A.
Forge Village. Mrs. A. H. Comey has been confined to her home the past week by illness.
Lenten services were held in St. Andrew’s mission, Wednesday evening. Immediately after the services a guild meeting was held.
Miss Mary Leclerc is recovering from an attack of mumps.
John M. Bowker of Arlington was a visitor at the home of Mr. and Mrs. William Burnett, Monday.
Mrs. William Weaver has returned home after a pleasant visit spent as the guest of her son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Tyler of Worcester.
Mrs. John Carmichael [nee, Harriet Precious] visited her sister, Mrs. Michael Keefe [nee Annie Precious] at Townsend Harbor, Tuesday, her little nephew, Master David Keefe returning with her.
At the farmers’ institute held in Littleton, Wednesday of last week, the following prizes were won in the drawing contest for school children. Second prize, George Wilson, eighth grade; third prize, Joseph Milot, second grade; sixth prize, Delia Connell, seventh grade; seventh prize, Lottie Parrott, fifth grade.
Freeman Marshall and Miss May Teller of Reading were entertained Sunday by Mrs. Lucretia Reed at her home on Pleasant street.
Archie S. Bennett of Somerville was an over-Sunday guest of Mrs. H. E. Randall.
Miss Kathryn Brown has been confined to her home the past week by illness. Dr. W. H. Sherman is attending her.
Miss Edith Forster was unable to entertain the Ladies’ Sewing Circle as planned, Thursday, owing to the illness of her mother. The circle met with Mrs. Richard D. Prescott.
Death. Mrs. John Spinner received word early in the week of the accidental death of her brother, Walter Wheeler of Billerica, Essex, England. The accident occurred February 15, while he was engaged in demolishing buildings at Hare Lodge, near Rumford, England. He was fatally crushed by a wall falling upon him. He was taken to the hospital, where he died an hour later. The accident is particularly sad, as he was the sole support of his aged parents, with whom he made his home. He leaves besides his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Eben Wheeler, who is seventy-nine, and her husband eighty years old, four sisters, Mrs. John Spinner of this village; Mrs. Fred Ramsay, Mrs. Walter Vere, and Miss Catherine Wheeler, also three brothers, Alfred, Henry and Edward Wheeler, all of England.
Graniteville. Eugene Coté, a young man of this village, died at the Lowell General hospital after a long and painful illness, on Thursday, February 25. His remains were brought to his home on River street and the funeral took place Saturday morning at nine o’clock. At 9:30 o’clock a requiem mass was celebrated in St. Catherine’s church by Rev. J. J. McNamara. The choir, under the direction of Mrs. Hanley, sang the Gregorian chant “Pie Jesu.” The floral tributes were varied and beautiful. The bearers were Henry Coté, Joseph Coté, Adelard Coté, Oscar Milot, Dona Milot, Fred Gagnon. Burial was in St. Catherine’s cemetery, this village. Undertaker J. A. Healy was in charge.
Mrs. Annie Decker, with her little son John of Philadelphia, Penn., is now visiting at the home of Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Charlton in this village.
Vernon Fletcher of this village won first prize in the drawing contest in competition with scholars from the Westford, Littleton and other schools at the Farmers’ Institute in Littleton last Thursday. Vernon is a scholar in the grammar grade of the Sargent school here.
The regular meeting of St. Catherine’s temperance society was held in the rooms of the organization on Wednesday evening.
Rehearsals have already begun for the comedy drama to be presented by the entertainment committee of Court Westford 170, M.C.O.F. The play will be given in Westford in the early spring.
The democrats will hold their caucus in Westford town hall on Tuesday evening, March 8, this year, and it is thought that a large number from this village will attend. The date of the republican caucus will be announced later.
Edward Lorenzo, who has spent the last few months in New Jersey, is now at home in this village.
The regular meeting of Court Graniteville 179, F. of A., was held in its room on Thursday evening. Business of importance was transacted. After the meeting an entertainment was held which was greatly enjoyed by the members.
Mrs. Joseph Wall of this village spent Sunday as the guest of Miss Minnie Alforth in Lawrence.
Lenten devotions were held in St. Catherine’s church on Wednesday at the usual hour.
William L. Wall has recently accepted a position in the wall paper department of the Houghton & Dutton store in Boston, and took charge of his new duties a few days ago.
William Show has moved into the Leahy house.
Saturday, March 12, 1910
Center. Wesley E. H. Hawkes of Melrose spent several days last week at the home of his cousin, Miss Hazel Hartford.
Miss Elizabeth Cushing of the teaching staff at the Frost school was absent Monday at her home in Southborough attending her brother’s wedding.
Miss Eva Fletcher returned to her home Monday from the Lowell General hospital where she recently underwent an operation for appendicitis.
Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Merritt and Mrs. Florence Isles attended the recent automobile show in Boston.
Mrs. H. V. Hildreth is convalescent from an attack of grippe. Master Leon has again been under the doctor’s supervision with a serious cold.
Mrs. A. H. Sutherland is at the Woman’s club hospital in Brookline, where she underwent a serious surgical operation last week, Wednesday. She is doing well at this writing and her many friends wish her a good recovery.
Last week, Friday afternoon, Wayland Balch and John Feeney invited some of the ladies of the village to visit, inspect and enjoy for the afternoon the quarters of the Spaulding Cavalry association on Boston road. About twenty-seven of the thirty invited were able to respond to this cordiality and had a very pleasant time. There were some amateur attempts to use the pool table and euchre was enjoyed. The hosts served refreshments that were all right in quality and quantity. The hospitality was much appreciated and the ladies hope they may be as thoughtfully considered again.
Last week, Friday afternoon was the cake and candy sale at the Frost school under the direction of its capable corps of teachers. The object of this sale was to swell the funds for a new piano. They already have a good sum in the bank and fully eighteen dollars will be added to this from Friday’s effort. An additional and interesting feature was the exhibition of school work in the four rooms.
Rev. Wallace preached a most interesting sermon to a large congregation last Sunday morning at the Congregational church. It was a personal message to his new people and was a frank, manly and winning presentation of his ides of the mutual relations of pastor and people. The evening service was well attended and H. G. Osgood led the singing.
The Foss-Harmon-Smith combination spending the winter in the sunny south do not forget the home-village and its people. While the green growing things are so dormant with us they have sent samples of the luxuriant vegetation where they are. Specimens of jasmine, japonica, tree of Lebanon, weeping cedar, Spanish moss and kunquarto [kumquats?] have been distributed among friends and neighbors. Genial Fred Smith has gone now to Sanford, sixty-five miles south of South Lake Weir. His letters home are full of interest. He writes of one grower having fifty acres in celery. By another month this group will probably be among us again.
Master John Gill Fletcher met with an unfortunate accident Wednesday afternoon. While at play he fell on the doorstep cutting a bad gash in his forehead. Dr. Wells was summoned and closed the wound with a number of stitches.
The ever-active and progressive Greigs at Fairview Farm have added to their equipment an up-to-date apple-house. The basement has a capacity of between six and seven hundred barrels and over this is a commodious wagon-house for various farm running-gear, for with them well housed implements and thrifty farming are synonymous. The stonework, mason work and carpentering were done by Warren E. Carkin.
Grange. There was the best attendance of the season at the grange last Thursday evening. Six new applicants for membership have been received for the spring class. There were seven visitors present.
The attraction of the evening was the burlesque presentation by the brothers of the ladies’ third degree. It was one of those things that needed to be seen to be fully appreciated. To the lively strain of the grange orchestra the Amazonian leaders appeared with their staff of followers in varied and fantastic array. They were marched and counter-marched and led through the remarkable maneuvers. They brandished their swords, they seated the officers with great ceremonies, their ritualistic work was like nothing ever heard before, finally they ushered in a lively and pugnacious goat (?). At any rate it was some sort of an active quadruped. By way of giving an hour of lively fun it was a great success.
It was under the direction of genial Joe Wall who has had much experience and success with entertainments.
The brothers who so capably aided him were: Samuel L. Taylor, Willard Fletcher, Edson Boyton, Edward Clement, W. R. Taylor, Horace Gould, Everett Woods, Henry Colburn, David Greig, Charlie and Fred Blodgett; John Feeney, Jr., and Lewis Jenkins were the candidates. The next meeting, March 17, will be poet’s night and a good program is being prepared.
A good delegation from this grange was present at the North Middlesex Pomona grange in Lowell last Friday. The tenth anniversary of the formation of this Pomona was observed. There was an excellent historical sketch by George E. Crosby of Tewksbury and many other interesting features throughout the day.
A Munificent Gift. One of the pleasantest happenings of the week to chronicle is the knowledge that has come to the townspeople of the munificent gift, intended for the town, from Mrs. M. Elizabeth Whitney.
Mrs. Whitney has offered to give to the town the sum of $10,000 for the establishment and perpetual maintenance of a public playground and baseball field. This means village improvement on a splendid scale and fully merits the hearty and genuine appreciation heard on all sides. It means the putting into good shape of the rough and unsightly four acres surrounding the Frost school and the adjacent academy and the making of a fine playground for the present and future pupils of these schools.
The gift is a memorial to the late Hiram Whitney [died March 26, 1908]. The accepting of the gift will be considered at the approaching town meeting.
Basketball. The Westford academy basket ball team added another victory to their string of games Saturday at the academy gymnasium when they defeated the Shirley team known as the Crescent A. A.’s. the largest crowd of spectators of the season was present and the contest was full of interest. The score was 15 to 10.
The Westford high school second team tried conclusions with the Shirley high first team and again were victorious with a score a little closer, 18 to 14.
Reception. The members and friends of the Union Congregational church tendered their new pastor, his wife and daughters a reception, Wednesday evening. It was a pleasant evening and a good number availed themselves of this opportunity for promoting the acquaintance between pastor and people so auspiciously begun. Rev. and Mrs. Bailey and several others represented the neighboring church.
Those in the receiving line with Mr. and Mrs. Wallace were the two deacons, H. G. Osgood with Miss Loker; Arthur E. Day with Mrs. Day, and L. W. Wheeler, chairman of the pulpit supply, with Mrs. Wheeler. The ushers were Wm. R. Taylor, Eliot F. Humiston and John S. Greig. The decorations were cut flowers and potted plants. Refreshments were served under the direction of Mrs. Taylor and Mrs. Hartford, assisted by Misses Norris, Lawrence, Cushing, Burnham and Carter.
Mrs. W. M. Wright attended the Middlesex Worcester Pomona at Groton, Wednesday and reports a good program and a fine time.
About Town. Frank Collins has resigned as superintendent of the Brookside mills. He has several positions offered, but has not decided where to locate.
Councilor Fletcher, who has been seriously ill at his home on Oak hill, with the grippe, has nearly recovered his usual grip on the social and business life of the community. His friends at the caucus missed him, they trust that the town meeting will not be missed by him. Dr. Wells is acting as board of health for him, which being interpreted in a business way meaneth, get Wells and get well, they are partners in business.
Joseph Marshall has rented his store on town line at Westford corner to an Italian. His name does not occur to the writer just at present, suffice to say it is a long lockjaw name with many unpronounceable joints in it. This store has been as it were kept on the bread of idleness for several years, to the loss of the owner. The leasing of it will seem to add to the life that rotates about Westford corner and revenue to the owner who is weary of paying taxes on idleness.
The annual town meeting will be held Monday, March 21. There are thirty-eight articles in the town warrant.
Caucuses. The republican caucus Monday evening brought out about one hundred voters. In the absence of chairman Herbert E. Fletcher, Capt. Sherman H. Fletcher was chosen chairman. Finding that he was likely to be cornered into a candidate for selectman, he turned the office of chairman with all the regulations pertaining thereto to H. V. Hildreth who was approved wise and worthy by the caucus. Alfred W. Hartford was chosen secretary and wrote history, as the caucus made it, which reads this way: Selectman, Sherman H. Fletcher; assessor, Chas. D. Colburn; overseers of poor, Chas. L. Hildreth; treasurer, Harwood L. Wright; school committee, Albert R. Choate, Henry B. Read; cemetery commissioner, David L. Greig; library trustee, Charles O. Prescott; constables, Edson G. Boynton, John A. Healey; collector, Leonard W. Wheeler; tree warden, Harry L. Nesmith; auditor, William R. Taylor.
A unanimous rising vote of thanks was passed, as a mark of appreciation for the long and faithful service of the retiring town treasurer, Nahum H. Wright, and the secretary of the caucus was instructed to convey the sentiment of the meeting, using ink and paper as an assistant messenger.
The democratic caucus was held at the town hall Tuesday evening. Edward Fisher was chosen chairman and Joseph Riney, secretary. It was a caucus of ditto marks for the candidates of the republican caucus excepting Joseph Wall who was unanimously nominated for selectman and Harold Gould for school committee in place of Albert R. Choate, and John A. Sullivan for constable in place of John A. Healey. Sixty-five were present.
Death. The funeral of Lorenzo Sweetser, who died last week, took place from the Baptist church, South Chelmsford, Sunday afternoon. Rev. C. W. Williams, a former pastor, and Rev. John Dame officiated. Singing was by Mrs. George P. Mansfield, and Mrs. J. F. Parker. The bearers were L. J. Fiske, Warren Berry, George P. Mansfield and Frank C. Byam. Burial in Hart Pond cemetery. Mr. Sweetser was for many years a resident of Westford, and was a successful carpenter and reliable not only as such, but extremely reliable and hewed close to the conscientious line in all things his hands found to do. Alone with truth, if need be, was his daily meat, rather than the allurements of the crowd baited with success and pleasure at any price. His memory is worthy of its opportunities.
Forge Village. Joseph McDonald met with a painful accident Saturday afternoon. He was cutting a tree down in the rear of the mill, when the axe slipped and cut a long gash in the side of his foot. Fourteen stitches were necessary to close the cut. Dr. W. H. Sherman dressed the injuries.
George H. Prescott, who has been very ill at his home the past few weeks, was operated upon for blood poison Monday. Dr. Martin of Lowell, assisted by Dr. Cyril A. Blaney, performed the operation. His daughter-in-law, Mrs. Clifford Prescott, of Nashua, N.H., is caring for him.
Work will commence shortly on the new three-story brick mill which is to be erected by Abbot & Co. The cement foundation was laid last fall and everything is in readiness to commence operations. A large force of men will be employed and work on the new building will be pushed rapidly. When completed it will furnish employment to a large number of people.
The many friends of Walter Blodgett, the well-known and esteemed conductor on the Lowell and Fitchburg electric railroad, will be sorry to hear that he has resigned his position on that line. Mr. Blodgett was the oldest conductor, being the fourth to be employed when the line was put in operation. He has accepted a position at Fletcher’s clothing store at Ayer and commenced his new duties last Monday.
Mr. and Mrs. William Blodgett and little son Edward and Mrs. Chester Blodgett of the Ridges are suffering with the grippe.
Ernest Longbottom of Arlington Heights was a visitor at the home of Mr. and Mrs. William Burnett on Thursday.
Cameron school closed Friday for the spring vacation of two weeks.
The Ladies Sewing Circle met with Mrs. Fred A. Sweatt on Thursday afternoon. The Circle is working hard, making articles both useful and ornamental, which will be offered for sale at their annual fair.
Lenten services were held in St. Andrew’s mission Wednesday evening, and were conducted by the vicar, Rev. Thomas Legate Fisher. At the conclusion of the services Mr. Fisher gave instructions to the confirmation class which were to be confirmed at St. Andrew’s church in Ayer, Friday evening, by Bishop William Lawrence.
Sunday evening services will be held at the Mission House at seven o’clock. An attractive and special musical program will be given by the vested choir of little girls. The little tots in their white cotters and scarlet caps make a charming picture as they slowly march in the processional.
Mrs. David Lord has been confined to her home the past two weeks with a severe attack of grippe.
Graniteville. Lenten devotions were held in St. Catherine’s church on Tuesday evening at the usual hour, Fr. Schofield conducting the services.
The annual parish reunion of St. Catherine’s church will be held in this village on Friday evening, April 1.
The Ladies’ Aid society of the M.E. church met with Mrs. L. A. Blood on Thursday afternoon, March 10, at the usual hour.
Hamlet S. Booth, the young man who was taken from here to the Lowell General hospital on last Wednesday suffering with typhoid pneumonia, died at the hospital Friday night, March 4, aged twenty-five years. He was ill only five days. The body was taken to the rooms of Undertaker George W. Healey, in Lowell, and was sent to his former home in Spring Hill Mines, Nova Scotia, on Sunday afternoon for burial. His shopmates in the C. G. Sargent machine shop sent a beautiful set piece of flowers.
Miss Anna Harrington and Miss Mae Mack of Leominster have been recent visitors in this village.
Miss Catherine Holland and friends from Lowell have been recent guests of Mr. and Mrs. Lester McLenna in this village.
The parishioners of the M.E. church appear to be highly pleased with their new pastor, Rev. Lewis F. Havermale. He is an eloquent preacher and being a young man makes matters very interesting for the younger members of the church while his forceful sermons make a deep impression on all.
Mr. Isaac Hall and Miss Lottie Doucette, two well-known young people of this village were married in Nashua, N.H., on Saturday morning, March 3. The event was something of a surprise to their many friends here, who wish the young people every success in their new life. Mr. and Mrs. Hall will at present reside at the home of the bridegroom’s parents in Tyngsboro, and later will take up housekeeping in this village. Mr. Hall is employed with the C. G. Sargent Corporation here.
A Baseball Club. The fine weather for the past few days reminded the boys that spring will soon be here, and plans are already under way for the formation of a baseball club that will represent Graniteville on the diamond this coming summer.
The Blues did remarkably well last season, winning the pennant in the Stony Brook league with a club composed entirely of local players. It is sincerely hoped that the home team will be intact for the coming season, if possible, and if there are any changes to be made that they be done with the best interest of the club at heart.
The baseball boys are all good fellows, and it is hoped that at the meeting that will be held in the near future, everything will be peaceful and harmonious.
New Field of Labor. At the 9:45 o’clock mass in St. Catherine’s church Sunday morning, the celebrant, Rev. J. J. McNamara, announced that he had recently accepted an appointment to take charge as pastor of a new parish that will soon be opened, comprising the territory of Canobie Lake, Salem and Pelham, N.H., and will take charge of his new duties shortly after Easter. Although the appointment comes in the nature of a promotion to Fr. McNamara, the parishioners of St. Catherine’s church sincerely regret his departure, for during the few years he has been there as assistant to Rev. Edmund Schofield, the pastor, he has formed many warm friendships by his untiring zeal and pleasing personality, and is beloved by all members of St. Catherine’s church, both young and old. He will long be remembered by the people here who wish him every success in his new field of labor.
Saturday, March 19, 1910
Center. Miss Edith Bicknell substituted at the Frost school last week during Miss Grant’s absence. Miss Grant was detained at home with illness.
Inadvertently Andrew Johnson’s name was omitted from the account of those who took part in the burlesque men’s degree staff at the last grange meeting. Brother Johnson acted well his part and we did not intend to omit his name from the account.
The Frost school is closed for the usual two weeks’ spring vacation. Miss Ruth Fisher is enjoying a stay at Plymouth for a part of the vacation.
Mrs. A. H. Sutherland is making good progress toward recovery at the hospital in Brookline where she recently underwent a surgical operation. Additional sympathy is felt for the family at this time owing to Beatrice, the older daughter, who was the housekeeper during her mother’s absence being afflicted with a felon.
Mrs. Frances B. Prescott is able to get out again after a siege with grippe and pleurisy.
Mrs. Frank C. Wright on her regular trip to Lowell, Tuesday, had an unfortunate experience with a sick horse. The animal traveled well on the way to the city and appeared all right but in going his rounds in the Highlands was taken severely sick. At this writing he is at a stable in care of a veterinary and improving. Warren Carkin substituted on the mail route Tuesday while Mr. Wright went to Lowell to look after his sick horse.
The basket ball game scheduled for Wednesday afternoon, between the Westford academy team and Stone high school team did not take place. For some reason, which we could not learn at this writing, the Stone delegation did not put in an appearance.
Dr. and Mrs. Hildreth of North Cambridge were over Sunday guests at Miss Ella F. Hildreth’s.
Mr. and Mrs. Edwin N. C. Barnes were visitors at Mrs. Homer M. Seavey’s this week.
Grippe and colds are still prevalent, keeping the doctors pretty busy. Wm. L. Woods, Mrs. Woods and Clifford have all been among the afflicted ones. Mrs. A. W. Hartford complicated an attack of grippe with a badly ulcerated tooth, making a pretty uncomfortable time.
The ladies’ degree staff of the grange are rehearsing preparatory to the coming initiations of the spring class of candidates.
A supper and entertainment are among pleasant events to come the latter part of this month at the Congregational church.
Mrs. Augusta Prescott has been spending this week at Cambridge with relatives. Charles Prescott and Rev. Mr. Marshall have been enjoying an outing together at Amherst. Mr. Prescott has made a trip nearly every week to Quincy since the Marshalls have been established there.
Col. Edwin D. Metcalf, who has presented the town with a soldiers’ monument, writes to Captain S. H. Fletcher that it will be shipped from the quarries at Barre, Vt., on March 22. Some delay has been caused by labor troubles. The site for the monument, which was graded and the curbing put in place last fall, is already for the placing of the shaft, which will probably take place next month. The monument committee is to have a copper box placed in the base of the monument with town reports and other records. Anyone who has records or other mementoes they would like placed therein may do so by conferring with Mr. Fletcher or with Edward Fisher.
Recital. Miss Julia H. Fletcher’s little group of piano pupils gave a recital at her home last Thursday afternoon, and the excellent results shown by each pupil gave good evidence of their careful training. Following is the program:
Duet, Carnival, Fletcher Abbot and Miss Fletcher; solo, Song of April, Miss Hazel Hartford; duet, March, Gaenschais, Edward Read and Miss Fletcher; solo, First robin, Miss Eleanor Cameron; duet, Scherzo, Miss Edna Day and Miss Fletcher; duet, Albumleaf, Miss Eleanor Cameron and Miss Fletcher; solo, Clover blossoms, Fletcher Abbot; solo, Fluttering Leaves, Miss Hazel Hartford; solo, Blue bell polka, Fletcher Abbot. Leon Hildreth, who is also one of Miss Fletcher’s pupils and was to have taken part, was detained at home with his second attack of grippe.
Tadmuck Club. Tuesday afternoon at the meeting of the Tadmuck club at Library hall was to have been in charge of Mr. Marshall. Owing to his removal from town Miss Martha Taylor kindly took the care of the afternoon’s program, which she did most capably and acceptably. She had chosen for her subject, “Some noted women” and her trio of names that have endured, proved most interesting and timely. They were Elizabeth Frye, the noble English woman, who did so much to alleviate hard conditions among prisoners and other unfortunates; Elizabeth Barrett Browning, the beautiful, sweet-natured and sensitive poetess, and our own gifted and versatile Alice Freeman Palmer, of blessed memory. Miss Taylor particularly has the happy faculty of bringing out the salient points in an illustrious life most entertainingly and instructively. Her sketches of Mrs. Browning and Mrs. Palmer were especially good. She closed her account of the latter with Richard Gilder’s tribute written at the time of Mrs. Palmer’s death.
At the next meeting, March 29, the subject will be, “Thomas Bailey Aldrich” in charge of Rev. B. H. Bailey.
Forge Village. A little daughter, who has been christened Agnes, was born to Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Finn on Tuesday, March 8.
Work has already commenced on two five-room single cottages to be erected on Pond street. Contractor Edwards, who is building the new mill, has charge of erecting the houses.
The Ladies’ Sewing circle met with Miss Edith Foster on Thursday afternoon. Considerable work was disposed of, after which the members were entertained at a dainty luncheon. A social hour concluded a very pleasant afternoon. Mrs. W. H. Fernald has presented the Circle with a sewing machine, and it will be placed in Recreation hall, where the ladies will work during the warm weather. The gift was greatly appreciated by the Circle. Mrs. Fernald has been unable to attend the meetings during the winter on account of illness.
The service at St. Andrew’s mission on Sunday evening was attended by a large number. A special feature was the singing of the additional vested choir of little girls. Child Jesus was sung at the offertory by the children in a charming manner. The children will be heard again Easter Sunday, and rehearsals are under way.
Rev. William E. Gardner, department secretary for the New England Board of Missions, will make an address in St. Andrew’s mission on Wednesday evening at the usual evening service, March 30. He will speak in Ayer, also, the same afternoon.
A jolly party, composed of F. A. Sweatt, John Carmichael, Elmer Nutting, Howard Northup [sic], Edmund Hunt and Charles Dudevoir, journeyed to Boston last Saturday to take in the sights and visit the automobile show.
Mrs. Michael Keefe and son Charles Keefe of Townsend Harbor were weekend guests of Mr. and Mrs. John Carmichael.
Mrs. John Brown visited her sister, Mrs. Mary Newcomb of Worcester, over Sunday.
Mrs. Ernest [Polly] Longbottom and son, William A., of Arlington Heights, spent the last of the week as the guest of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Burnett.
Mr. and Mrs. Myles Collins entertained Mr. Craven Midgley, superintendent of the Bunting mills, Lowell, and the Misses Grace and Mabel Delmege of North Billerica on Sunday.
Mr. and Mrs. Ephraim Milot welcomed a little son [Joseph Milot] into their home Tuesday, March 15.
Death. George Henry Prescott, one of the oldest and most respected residents of this village, passed away Thursday evening, March 10, after a short illness, aged seventy-one years, ten months and ten days. Mr. Prescott was a veteran of the Civil war, and he enlisted in 1862 in Co. D, thirty-fifth regiment of Massachusetts volunteers and was wounded by a bursting shell in the battle of Fredericksburg and Antietam and Snow Mountain. The regiment was also engaged in the battles of Campbell’s Station and Knoxville, Tenn., Jackson, and siege and capture of Vicksburg, Miss., and in 1864 ordered to join the army of the Potomac, with which it participated in the battles of Spotsylvania, North Anna, Coal Harbor, Weldon railroad, Poplar Spring, Church, Hatcher’s run, Fort Sedgewick, Fort Mahone, Petersburg and saw the end of the rebellion. After he recovered from his injuries he did hospital work for some time. In 1865 Mr. Prescott received an honorable discharge.
George H. Prescott was born in Westford, May 1, 1838, and had resided in this village in the same house nearly forty years. His parents were Henry A. Prescott and Mary M. (Fletcher). He was a lover of flowers and always had the earliest and choicest that could be obtained, and which he shared generously with his neighbors. He was known as an upright, just and very generous man, and was highly esteemed by all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance.
The funeral was held at his home Sunday afternoon, and a large gathering of relatives, friends and neighbors was present. Rev. E. L. Baker of North Ware and son-in-law of the deceased was the officiating minister. A quartet, composed of Rev. Thomas L. Fisher, William Burnett, Miss Theresa Sotuher and Miss Sarah Precious sang Shall we gather at the river? and Saved by grace.
At the conclusion of the services the large silk American flag which draped the casket was placed inside the casket by the veterans of the G.A.R. with a brief service. The Caleb Butler lodge of Masons of Ayer, the deceased being a member, attended the services and escorted the body to the cemetery, where the burial service of the Masonic order was read. The bearers were Masons and veterans.
The floral tributes were unusually beautiful and were the offerings of loving friends and neighbors. He was laid to rest by the side of his wife, Mrs. Sophia Prescott, who died March 2, 1908, and burial was in Westlawn cemetery.
He leaves five children, Clifford H. Prescott of Nashua, N.H.; Mrs. E. L. Baker of North Ware, Lester E. Prescott of Cliftondale, Mrs. C. E. Maston of Fredericksburg, Md., and Clarence A., of Wakefield, a half-sister and several grandchildren.
Richard D. Prescott received word Friday [March 11] of the death of his brother, Crawford E. Prescott, which occurred Friday morning at his home in Hudson [Mass.]. Deceased, who was thirty-nine years old, was a native of this village, where he lived until his marriage to Flora A. Whitcomb, who survives him. He also leaves a brother, R. D. Prescott, and a half-brother, Henry Storey. Death has removed within a few hours of each other two of the few remaining Prescotts, whose ancestors settled here in 1680.
About Town. Walter A. Whidden is adding a two-story piazza to the old remodeled Whidden homestead on Oakhill road [once located near the entrance to what is now Sweetwood Circle], near Whidden’s corner. There seems to be a contagious element in this. Close by Lorenzo Fletcher, on the corner of Oakhill and Groton road, is making the new look newer on the cottage house, formerly the home of Miss Laura Fletcher. This, with the new story house of Augustus Whidden and the improvements at the H. E. Fletcher & Co. stone quarry, make this section of precinct three look as though there were inhabitants here of the live order.
At the registration meeting Saturday four names were added to town meeting rights, and the town reports arrived in season to keep the registrars busy Saturday.
The funeral of Mrs. Maud R. Griffin was held Sunday afternoon at Lowell. Rev. George O. Wright was the officiating clergyman, and Charles Howard and E. R. Wirt sang several beautiful selections. The bearers were Charles Griffin, Frank Griffin, George Whitehead and Mr. Munson. Mrs. Griffin was buried in Westford, where lives her sister, Mrs. Frank C. Hildreth, and her brother-in-law, Charles M. Griffin.
The annual Town meeting will be held Monday, March 21. There is an abundance in the warrant to cause diversity of opinion, with thirty-nine articles.
De Lacey Corkum entertained the Fortnightly club at the last meeting and gave a review of history from the farming of Adam and the housekeeping of Eve down to standard time of the present moment. Next Friday evening a humorous play will be given by the young folks.
George W. Buzzey is again seriously ill at his home at Brookside, and during the week has had several severe hemorrhages of the lungs.
Deaths. Stephen E. Hutchins died at his home on the Robinson road last Saturday after a lingering illness of paralysis, aged seventy-eight years. He was a native of Carlisle, but had been a resident of Westford for nearly fifty years. Here was his rural home at the birthplace [actually, John Robinson was born in Topsfield, Mass.] of Col. Robinson [17 Robinson Rd.], made famous in the history of the Concord fight. Here on the westerly sunny slope of Tadmuck hill, Mr. Hutchins industriously and successfully tilled the soil. For many years he owned a retail milk route at Forge Village. Age and illness compelled his relinquishing this phase of farm industry. His home life, among the honest labors nature has entrusted to rural environments, suited well his personal endowment.
He leaves four daughters, Mrs. Marshall Brown of Littleton, Mrs. Della Blood of this town, Mrs. Smith and Mrs. McCollester of Ayer, one sister, Mrs. Jane Kimball, and a brother, Melbourne Hutchins. [His two youngest brothers died in the Civil War.]
The funeral was held at his late residence Tuesday afternoon, many friends and neighbors coming for the last service. Rev. Drummond of Littleton was the clergyman who had charge of the service. John S. Greig sang the solo, “Beautiful Isle of somewhere,” and a trio of singers, Mrs. D. L. Greig, Miss L. B. Atwood and John Greig, sang “Christian, good night,” and “Softly and tenderly.”
The bearers were Douglas Smith, Marshall Brown, G. A. Kimball, and George M. Brown.
The floral offerings included large pillow roses, lilies from the children; wreath, roses and galax leaves from the sister, Mrs. Jane Kimball and brother Melbourne Hutchins; spray of roses, pinks and ferns from his grandson and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. M. Brown; spray of pinks from his grandchild, Mrs. Mabel McCollester; wreath of galax leaves and narcissus from the grandchildren, Roy and Avery Smith; spray of calla lilies, Mrs. Mary J. Kimball and family; spray of pinks, Mrs. William Handley, a grandchild; bouquet of pinks, Mr. and Mrs. George A. Culver; spray of pinks, George H. Hartford.
He was buried in Westlawn cemetery. Undertaker David L. Greig had charge of the funeral.
Another one of the old residents in Stony Brook Valley has passed away, Alvin G. Polley, well-known in the town. Early Tuesday morning he quietly fell asleep after a long illness which was trying to one of his robust nature, and just as long as he possibly could do so he was out doors every day.
He had lived for thirty-eight years on what was once known as the “Captain Law place,” a fine lying farm which it was a pleasure to look at as one came up from Brookside and saw the fertile fields of this farm and then looked on beyond, way up the valley to Westford depot.
Mr. Polley made a local reputation as a successful farmer, having for the specialties of his farm, milk, potatoes and popcorn. Here he brought up his family of eight children, all of whom are married—David living in Lynn; Mrs. Walter A. Falls of Lowell; Bert, Mrs. Henry Bunce and Mrs. Thomas Gray of North Chelmsford; George of Providence, R.I.; Mrs. Arthur Gilman of Woodstock, Vt.; and Amos, who is living on the home place. The companion of Mr. Polley’s life died several years ago.
Mr. Polley was one of the oldest residents of the town, lacking less than a month of being eight-two. He was a vigorous man physically and an independent thinker on all questions, a man much esteemed in the community. He was interested in forming the grange, being a charter member, and was its first overseer. For a good many years he served on the school board and on the board of overseers of the poor, showing fine judgment on all questions which came up for their consideration.
The funeral was Thursday afternoon.
Graniteville. A very interesting meeting of the teachers of the Westford schools was held at the Sargent school here on Wednesday afternoon to listen to a talk from Mr. Briggs, superintendent of Chelmsford schools. The meeting proved of great interest to all concerned, and at the conclusion, the visiting teachers were served a dainty lunch by the teachers in the Sargent school. The whole affair proved to be very instructive and enjoyable.
The Graniteville dramatic club is now very busy each night rehearsing for the rural comedy-drama that will be presented in the near future. The play will be given in Westford, and one who knows says it will be the best play that they have ever presented, and that means a whole lot.
The Lenten devotions that were held in St. Catherine’s church on Tuesday were largely attended. The services were conducted by Rev. Edward T. Schofield.
The ice is now rapidly breaking up in the mill ponds and if the present good weather continues it will not last much longer.
Politics has been quiet here this year and for a time everybody appeared to be at sea as to who would be nominated for the head of the ticket this year. The different caucuses have declared that Joseph Wall and Sherman H. Fletcher are the opposing candidates for the election for the position of selectman of Westford for the next three years.
Earl Stuart, the three-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. James Stuart of this village, accidentally broke his wrist while playing with his father last Sunday. Dr. W. H. Sherman was at once called and attended to the injured member.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank McLenna of East Lynn have been recent visitors in this village.
Mrs. Caroline Prinn, who has been on the sick list for the past few days, is now feeling very much improved.
Word has been recently received here from Bert De Roehn, the well known baseball player who has been spending the winter months in Pinehurst, N.H. [N.C.] The reports from the before mentioned place speak very well of Bert’s ball playing, this being his second season in Pinehurst.
Daniel J. Burke of Milford, N.H., is visiting friends in this village.
Stonework has begun early here this year and so far H. V. Hildreth & Co. and Thomas Rafferty, the well-known contractors, have commenced work on their respective quarries. The outlook for the coming season appears to be good, and no doubt a large force of men will be employed here when the weather gets more favorable.
Little Harold, son of Mr. and Mrs. P. H. Harrington, celebrated his sixth birthday on Saturday, March 12. A number of his little friends were invited and enjoyed various games and other amusements. Refreshments were served and all had a merry time.
Saturday, March 26, 1910
Fire. The dwelling house on the Tallent farm on the Stony Brook road was burned Thursday morning. The fire was discovered about 7:30 near the chimney and although every effort was made to save the house it was impossible as the fire had made such headway before discovered. The roof of the house was soon on fire and the smoke poured out fast. The neighbors with fire extinguishers made a hurry effort to save the building, but it was soon evident that their unaided efforts were insufficient to subdue the strong flames which the brisk breeze fanned.
In the meantime the fire department was summoned by telephone from Graniteville and Westford and they were on the spot ready for action as soon as possible. John A. Healey, chief of the fire department, was the first of all the firemen to arrive, coming down from Graniteville in double quick time. He took charge and made heroic and well-directed efforts to save the house. Finding it impossible with the facilities, he wisely turned the efforts of the department to saving the barn which was connected by a shed which was partly demolished to save the barn. Several times the fire made headway on the barn, but the rescue work of the fire department with chemical extinguishers and townspeople and neighbors as a water brigade, and the favorable compass of the wind all combined to control the fire on the barn.
The household furniture was mostly saved excepting some valuable paintings in the upstairs department. Nearly everything in the cellar was burned. The buildings were insured in Lowell by Capt. S. H. Fletcher as agent.
The Parfitt and Tallent families who have occupied the house have moved temporarily into the J. Murray Chamberlin house on Main street, owned by Arthur J. Blodgett. The fire department worked heroically to save everything.
Graniteville. Palm Sunday was fittingly observed in St. Catherine’s church here when the palms were blest before the 9:45 mass by Rev. J. J. McNamara. During the mass the palms were distributed to the members of the congregation.
Miss Etta M. Sheahan, Miss Sarah Teague and Miss Cora Barrows of Lowell have been recent visitors here.
Mr. and Mrs. William Espie of Fitchburg have been recent guests of Mr. and Mrs. Joe Wall in this village.
John Donehue and Miss May Donehue, both former residents here, but now of Lowell, visited friends in this village recently.
William J. Healey, while in the performance of his duties as fireman with Abbot Worsted Co., was struck by a piece of flying glass from a broken steam gauge early Monday morning that inflicted a severe cut on his left arm. Dr. W. H. Sherman attended the injured man and took several stitches in the wound. The cut, though painful, is not considered serious, and Mr. Healey is expected to attend to his usual duties in a few days.
A. R. Choate, who was the unsuccessful candidate for election on the Westford school board at the annual town meeting held last Monday, has served on the Westford school board for a period of twenty-one years. For the past few years he has been chairman of the board, and was always fair and just in his rulings, and fearless in the performance of his duties. His defeat is sincerely regretted by the people here.
Mrs. Edward Defoe, who has been on the sick list for the past few days, is feeling much improved.
The Cameron circle, Companions of the F. of A., held their regular meeting at their rooms on Tuesday evening. Business of importance was transacted and Miss Mary Sullivan, j.p.c.c. and Mrs. Julia B. Wall were elected delegates to attend their convention at Boston in June. Mrs. William Healey and Mrs. Lena Delerenzo were elected as alternatives.
Entertainment. The concert that has been looked forward to with such deep interest by the village people for several days came off on schedule time at the M.E. church last Friday evening, under the auspices of the Men’s club of the church. The entertainment was furnished by the Mendelssohn male quartet of Lowell, Edward R. Wirt, first tenor; Arthur T. Munn, second tenor; Charles Howard, baritone; Harry C. Needham, basso, assisted by Mrs. Belle Harrington Hall, reader; Len Galloway, entertainer; Miss Hazel Wirt, accompanist. The concert was an unusually good one and far superior to anything of a like nature seen in this village for a long time.
Before and after the entertainment ice cream, cake and coffee were served in the church vestry, the members of the club being the waiters. All looked natty with their uniforms of dark trousers, white coats and each wearing a large carnation in his buttonhole.
The affair was largely attended and reflects great credit on the committee in charge and the Men’s club in general. Following are the committee: W. O. Hawkes, O. A. Nelson, Fred Blodgett, Frank Caunter, J. B. Carmichael, W. C. Wright, W. F. Sargent, William Gilson, Charles Blodgett, Andrew Johnson, Fred Reed, Thomas Denio, and John Duckworth.
There were several women and a few men in the background who helped materially toward the success of this affair, and although their names did not appear here their efforts are greatly appreciated by the Men’s club.
Rev. Lewis F. Havermale was present during the evening and took an active part in all that was going on.
About Town. John Perkins of Graniteville has taken the place of Jonathan Goode at the Brigham farm.
It is reported that the railroad commission have decided against the town in the recent hearing for operating the branch line from Brookside to Westford Centre of the Lowell and Fitchburg railway.
Walter Steele is ill from the effects of a fall at the sawmill at Westford station.
Mattie Symmes is down with the scarlet fever at her home on the Concord road. She was taken ill in Lowell, but the board of health of that city permitted her removal.
The Orthodox church will give a social and supper at the vestry on Thursday, March 31, followed by music and readings.
There will be one of those old time useful and otherwise entertaining sociables at the vestry of the Unitarian church Tuesday evening. Prior to this event and close to humanity needs will be the Easter offering next Sunday at the Unitarian church for the Children’s Mission in Boston, doing charity and rescue work, without an endowment and dependent on offerings. The usual Easter envelope from this old time and honored home has already been distributed.
The railroad bridge spanning Stony Brook road caught fire early Thursday morning of last week and but for the discovery and prompt arrival of Wm. Parfitt, it would have rendered travel unsafe if not delaying it temporarily. As it was trains slowed up.
Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Tallant of Pelham have been visiting their children at the Tallant home on the Stony Brook road.
Funeral. The funeral of Alvin G. Polley took place at his late home on Thursday afternoon and was largely attended by relatives and neighbors. Out of the family group of eight children seven were able to be present with their families for the last service for their father. Four stalwart sons were the bearers, David A., Robert W., George W. and Amos B. Polley. Rev. Wallace of the Congregational church spoke with much earnestness and tenderness of the unquenchable belief of the human heart in immortality.
There were beautiful flowers to bring their message of cheer. A large pillow with Father on it from the children; a spray of sweet peas from Mr. and Mrs. Walter A. Falls; spray of pinks from the grandchildren, Miss Ida Trask, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Fletcher, Augustus Bruce [Bunce] and family; spray of calla lilies from Miss Sarah Richardson and Miss Wregg and a large wreath from the neighbors, including the families of Frank C. Drew, Charles Whitney, Frank Barrister, Merriam Steel, C. R. P. Decatur, Samuel L. Taylor, John Haley and William Parfitt.
The burial was at Fairview beside the companion of his life who died a few years ago.
The old homestead will be carried on by the youngest son Amos and his wife who have appreciated fully all the courtesy of friends during this time of anxiety.
Center. The academy has been closed this week for the annual spring vacation. Miss Edith Lawrence has been enjoying the week visiting a former college classmate at her home in New York. Miss Bertha Norris spent her vacation at her home in Portland, Me.
Mr. and Mrs. John Good and four children, Mrs. Good’s mother, Mrs. Honoria O’Brien, two sisters, Misses Agnes and Nellie O’Brien, and brother, Frank O’Brien, left Monday on their long trip to Oregon, where they expect to locate. Mr. Good has long been employed at the Brigham farm and was a steady, capable workman. He was a member of the Edward M. Abbot hose company. They take with them the good will and good wishes of the community for success in their new environment.
Marden and Marjory Seavey have been enjoying vacation days with their maternal grandmother, Mrs. M. E. Mitchell, at Cambridge.
Mrs. Helen Leighton and Miss Frances Leighton are guests at Mrs. Mary E. Fletcher’s.
Invitations are out for the wedding of Miss Mabel Miller and Frank A. Wright, at the home of the bride, Wednesday, March 30.
Principal and Mrs. William A. Woodward have been enjoying vacation days in Boston and Stoneham this week.
Committees are busy arranging for social gatherings at the Unitarian vestry Tuesday evening and at the Congregational vestry Thursday evening of next week. At the first-named there will be whist and other games with light refreshments, and at the latter a supper followed with a most original entertainment. This is verily quite a dissipation in church social gatherings for our quiet village, but attendance at both will probably leave those present none the worse off.
At the Congregational church last Sunday Mr. Wallace preached a sermon appropriate to Palm Sunday. It was a discourse proper to the day, and he paid a full measure of tribute to its significance. He prefaced his sermon with a timely message on the temperance question in our own town, as concerning the vote the following day for license or no-license. The evening discourse was from the text “She has done what she could [Mark 14:8].” The prayer meeting of this church was resumed Tuesday evening, with a good attendance. During the change of pastors this service has been omitted. Special preparations are being made for the Easter service with suitable music, decorations and sermon.
Grange. There was a good attendance at the grange last Thursday evening. At the business sessions various items of interest were considered. The grange voted to have a suitable souvenir from the order enclosed in the copper box with other similar matter before the erection of the new soldiers’ monument next month. A committee of three, consisting of Mrs. Winthrop Wheeler, S. L. Taylor and F. C. Wright, was appointed to carry out this plan. The two first mentioned of this committee being charter members.
Plans for the coming fifteenth anniversary of the grange’s organization, which will be observed May 5, were discussed. The various committees in charge of this will spare no pains to make it a memorable event in the annals of the order.
At the lecturer’s hour Mrs. Knight presided in the absence of Miss Grant, who was absent on account of the school vacation. It was an evening with the poets, and the following programme was given: “Death of the flowers,” from Longfellow, Miss Nelson; one of Longfellow’s legendary poems, Mrs. Bannister; duet, violin and piano, Mr. Blodgett and Miss Miller; “Crossing the bar,” from Tennyson, Mrs. Gould; sketch of Whittier, with a representative poem, Mrs. Prescott; song, E. G. Boynton.
At the next meeting, April 7, first and second degrees will be conferred on the seven candidates voted upon at this meeting.
Town Meeting. Fair skies and good travelling made it easy to reach the town hall, the mecca of the voters for the annual town meeting Monday, March 21.
Neither were there any squalls within the hall, but a lively interest in the town’s affairs that brought out the largest vote that has been cast for years. Contests for the offices of selectman, school committee, constable and the license question were the more vital issues of the day.
The first act of the voters was to choose for moderator, Hon. Herbert E. Fletcher, the governor’s councilor from this district. Under Article two was the “battle of the ballots,” with the following results:
For selectman, Sherman H. Fletcher was elected for three years, the vote being Fletcher 191, Wall 144.
Charles D. Colburn, assessor for three years; Charles L. Hildreth, overseer of the poor; Harwood L. Wright, town treasurer; Leonard W. Wheeler, tax collector; William R. Taylor, auditor; Edson G. Boynton, constable, 247; Fennimore Martin, constable, 180; John A. Sullivan, defeated, 129. School committee, three years, H. B. Reardon, 198; H. E. Gould, 229; Albert R. Choate, 162; Read and Gould elected. Trustee of public library, Charles O. Prescott. Commissioner of public burial ground, for three years, David L. George.
In the license question the noes were happily in the ascendant, having 262 votes, against 142 yes. The total numbers of voters casting ballots during the day was 363, including two suffragettes.
The reports of the various town officers were then accepted, as printed, in rapid routine, the only variation being that a slight misunderstanding developed over the report of the library trustees, wherein it seemed difficult to distinguish between a dog tax, a dog license, a library trustee and some other things; but this was soon untangled and the report accepted. This carried an appropriation of $1,000, plus the dog license money, for books.
Under Article twelve the town voted $1,000 for renovating the interior of the town hall.
Article thirteen gave the tax collector the regular compensation of one per cent upon the amount collected.
Under Article fourteen $4,000 was raised for highways.
Under Article fifteen it was voted to borrow $3,000 to complete the repairs of the roads in the centre village in accordance with the recommendation of the county commissioners.
Under Article sixteen $7,500 was raised for town debts and charges.
Under Article seventeen $1,200 was raised for support of poor.
Article eighteen, $9,000 was raised for public schools. This somewhat took the breath away from some of the voters, but it is hoped they will regain it through the years, as they have the satisfaction of a new man at the helm.
Twenty-six hundred dollars more school money came under the next article for the high school. Next came $600 for school text-books and supplies.
Then came $850 more for salary of superintendent of schools.
Then came $600 for repairs and miscellaneous repairs and expenses around the schoolhouses. Whether these miscellaneous expenses will include wear and tear on the mental equipment of some voters on the expense and methods of conducting schools is unknown to the writer, but these five articles included so much money that many think they will have to resort to high finance to liquidate their tax bills.
Eight hundred dollars was voted under Article twenty-three as a skidoo for gypsy and brown-tail moths.
The twenty-fourth plank of the platform granted $400 to the fire department.
The twenty-fifth article of business granted four more hydrants—two at Centre village and two at Forge Village. Next $150 was raised for chemical fire extinguishers.
Fifty dollars’ worth of medical inspection was then voted for the school children.
The next two articles settled that the town treasurer could borrow money while waiting for the taxes to be gathered in the usual manner.
The next two articles covered the choosing of a financial committee and officers usually chosen by hand vote.
Under the thirty-second article $500 was voted to commemorate Memorial day because of the dedication of a soldiers’ monument to be presented by Col. Edwin D. Metcalf of Auburn, New York, and resolution expressing thanks to him were also voted.
The next article brought up another gift to the town in the proposition of Mrs. M. Elizabeth Whitney to make into a playground the premises adjacent to the William E. Frost schoolhouse and establish a fund for the maintenance thereof. This was accepted with the passage of resolutions expressing hearty thanks to the donor.
The town voted to publish lists of books added to the library during the year, and next the usual $75 was voted for the distribution of books to the village of Graniteville, Forge Village and Parkerville.
Article thirty-six authorized the selectmen to attend to any law suits that may arise during the year.
The suppression of the liquor traffic was left with the selectmen, under Article thirty-seven.
The last item of business was the offer of $100 reward for the catching and jailing of any persons setting forest or other fires in town.
Adjournment was reached at half-past three and another town meeting had passed into history.
Forge Village. Easter day will be fittingly observed in St. Andrew’s mission. Communion will be celebrated at nine o’clock; Sunday school at 3:30 P.M., when the mite boxes will be collected. The money obtained in this way is used for missionary work. The evening service will be the important event; charming Easter music will be rendered by the regular choir with an additional vested choir of small girls. It is suggested that the little girls wear white dresses if convenient. The Easter offering will be taken up at this service, which will commence at seven P.M.
Miss Edith Foster entertained the Ladies’ Sewing Circle at her home March 17. The well-appointed table was decorated in keeping with the day [St. Patrick’s Day]. Everyone received a dainty souvenir. The circle met this week at Recreation hall.
The R.T.S. society held their first social dance in Abbot hall on Thursday evening, March 17, and by all accounts it was the jolliest affair that has been held for some time. Besides the large delegations that came from Graniteville, Westford and Littleton, Ayer, Shirley and Pepperell contributed in large numbers. Committee in charge: Edward Spinner, Dola Dumont, Arthur Gariepy, Charles Flanagan and William Goodall.
Miss Eva Pyne and Miss Lettia V. Ward of the teaching staff of Cameron school have been spending their vacation with relatives of Miss Pyne in Manchester, New Hampshire.
Miss Sarah Precious and Miss Emily Collins were guests of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Keefe at their home in Townsend Harbor, the last of the week.
Mr. and Mrs. William Wearer and grandson, Elmer DeRoehn, will spend the Easter holidays with their son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Tyler of Worcester.
Joseph Miller has been on the sick list and under the care of Dr. Cyril A. Blaney.
Mr. Stewart and party of friends from Everett were at Mr. Stewart’s cottage for a few days this week, getting it in readiness for the camping season.