The Westford Wardsman, August, 1911
Saturday, August 5, 1911
Center. Miss Lillian Sutherland has been spending the week at Crystal Lake, Newton,, N.H., with her cousin, Miss Dorothy Jaques, whose parents have taken a camp there for the month of August. A third young lady, a cousin from Haverhill, has also been one of the group.
Miss Mary Moran, our village milliner, has been enjoying a vacation of a week at Chebacco Island, Essex, the guest of Mrs. Julian A. Cameron. This week Miss Marjory Seavey is enjoying the hospitality of the same home the guests of Misses Elinor and Marjory Cameron.
Mrs. G. S. Cushing and daughter Marion of Medford are spending a two-weeks vacation with her cousin, Mrs. Ralph Bridgeford. Mrs. Bridgeford also entertained her sister, Mrs. Parker, from Oak hill, Pepperell, last week.
Mr. and Mrs. Arthur E. Day have welcomed a little daughter [Viola Merriam Day] into their family circle, born the first of this week [July 31].
Mr. and Mrs. Calvin Howard have recently entertained Mr. and Mrs. Charles Howard and little son of Concord, N.H.
Walter Perkins, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Perkins, was unfortunate enough to break his collar bone while at play with other boys on Monday of this week. Dr. Wells attended the injured boy.
Little Carl Anderson is at the Lowell General hospital receiving treatment for abdominal rupture.
The J. C. Abbots are at their summer home at Chebacco Island, Essex, this month.
Mrs. Ida M. Gould is visiting friends at Middletown, Conn.
Mrs. J. Henry Colburn and son Clarence, and Mr. and Mrs. Fred L. Snow, the latter of North Westford, go this week-end to Alton Bay, N.H., for a vacation.
Rev. and Mrs. David Wallace, Pauline and Rachael and Mrs. Tarleton and son Grafton, are at home again after an enjoyable stay at Swampscott. Mrs. Tarleton and little son return the first of next week to their home in the west after several weeks’ stay at the parsonage.
It was the losing day of the Westford participants of baseball last Saturday. The Westford team lost 4 to 0 at Leominster on Saturday afternoon. The more juvenile team that crossed bats with the boys from St. Margaret’s society, Lowell, at Whitney park were badly defeated. The Lowell boys had considerable advantage in being somewhat older and more practiced.
Mrs. H. V. Hildreth, Mrs. A. W. Hartford, Mrs. Elizabeth Hamlin, Mrs. John Feeney and Mrs. L. W. Wheeler enjoyed a day’s outing at Bass Point on Thursday of last week.
Dr. and Mrs. Edward Atwood are at the Misses Atwood and during this week they have entertained their nephew, Carleton Eliot Atwood, and his bride.
Mrs. H. V. Hildreth entertained the Thimble club at her home on Tuesday afternoon of this week. There was a full attendance of the membership present and several especially invited guests and was a most enjoyable occasion.
Mr. and Mrs. Henry M. Wright have finished their annual summer sojourn at Westford and returned for the remainder of the season to their summer home at Marshfield.
Mrs. Alice M. Lambert is with Mrs. Mary E. Fletcher for the present. A wide circle of friends sincerely sympathize with Mrs. Fletcher in her frail health.
Mr. and Mrs. Aaron Tuttle, Mrs. Nelson Tuttle and Alfred enjoyed an excursion to Old Orchard beach on Thursday of last week.
Miss Ruth Tuttle is spending the summer at Sebago Lake, Me.
Those in charge of the annual reunion and field day of the Cavalry association are busy completing arrangements for next Thursday. Reunion, music, baseball, clay pigeon shoot, dinner and annual meeting of the members are the features of the affair, and if the fine weather that has favored former reunions helps out, it is sure to be a pleasant affair. The events will take place at Whitney park and the town hall.
Owing to the fact that the sessions of the legislature have been so prolonged, the assessors have not received the state tax and the issuing of bills to the tax payers has been unusually delayed.
Miss Lila C. Fisher, who is spending the summer abroad, sends most pleasant accounts of her journeying to the home friends.
Miss Mary Davis of Providence, R.I., has been a recent guest of Miss Ruth Fisher.
The Donald M. Camerons are spending the week at Bristol, N.H.
Misses Gertrude D. and Julia H. Fletcher have returned from a week’s vacation at Portland, Me.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank E. Miller, Mrs. Frank Bannister and Mrs. Josie A. Prescott of Westford grange are planning to join the traveling picnic of the Middlesex Worcester Pomona grange on August 9.
The A. W. Hartfords were auto guests of the W. J. Merritts in attendance at the ball game at Leominster last Saturday.
On Thursday, August 10, the day of the Cavalry reunion, there will be hourly service on our branch line of electrics. The customary two-hour intermission of trips in the forenoon will be omitted on that day.
About Town. Thomas Greig and granddaughter of Danvers visited his brother, John Greig, at the busy, thriving Greig farm on Main street last Sunday. In point of years he is in the measurements of eighty. In point of activities and youthful appearance his measurement could be reduced many years.
The band concert on Wednesday evening at Cameron common, West Chelmsford, by the Chelmsford brass band, called out the lovers of music in large numbers. The music was inspiring.
Miss Ella Wright of Cleveland, Ohio, is receiving the benefits of a vacation at her summer home, the old Fletcher farm on the Lowell road at Brookside.
The tennis contest last Saturday on the Old Oaken Bucket court between Rev. J. D. Sallee and John A. Taylor against Fred A. Snow and W. R. Taylor resulted in a snow landslide on a warm day. The minister can play, but he is not used to a snow storm at this time of the year and was unprepared to meet it either.
On Thursday, August 10, at Whitney park, there will be a reunion of Spalding Light Cavalry, known in modern days as Troop F. There will be sports and games of modern days and conversations of the olden days of the military and social life of this ancient named and famed company. Dinner with speeches will be part of the order of the day. When refreshments of this kind are not being served the Chelmsford brass band will deal with you after the musical manner of the old Dunstable cornet band that inspired camp service in the early days of the now short named Troop F cavalry.
Mrs. Frank Rose and daughters, Misses Lillian and Carmel, of Belmont, are visiting Mrs. Elizabeth Splain.
Mr. and Mrs. John Shackleton spent Tuesday in Boston.
Annual Field Day. The final arrangements for the firemen’s annual field day, to be held in the village on Saturday, August 5, have been made. The three companies will battle for the silver cup presented by Mrs. Clara Samuels of Lowell and won by the John Edwards hose company last year the hose race will commence promptly at two o’clock, and will be followed by a half-mile race for boys, and a half mile race for men. Several other races will be run off, including running and boat races for men and girls, which are open to residents of the town of Westford only.
Supper will be served to the members of the three companies and the visiting firemen of Lowell, who will act as judges. The affair will close with a dance in Abbot hall in the evening, to which admission will be charged.
The judges will be Assistant Engineer Stackpole, Captains McKissock, Hurley and Foley of Lowell.
Graniteville. Dr. and Mrs. M. H. Sherman have returned home after a two-weeks’ vacation spent in New York and Maine. They came home from Damariscotta, Me., in their new auto, visiting many places of interest on the way. Dr. Stetron, who has filled Dr. Sherman’s place while he was away on his vacation, has made many friends here during his short stay and will be missed by many when he returns to New York.
Mr. and Mrs. John B. Carmichael are enjoying the sea breezes at Nahant this week.
Mrs. Jennie Meserve from Beverly is visiting at the home of her cousin, Mrs. W. O. Hawkes.
Mrs. Lucy Blood and grandson, Donald Blood, left here this week for an extended visit with relatives in New York.
Wesley O. Hawkes has returned home from a visit which he spent in Melrose, Deerfield and Barton, Vt.
Robert McCarty and two daughters, Ruby and Laura, are visiting in Concord this week, while Mrs. Robert McCarty and her mother, Mrs. Ruby Healey, are visiting relatives in New Hampshire.
Mrs. William Gilson, from New York, is visiting at the home of Mr. and Mrs. George Gilson.
Mrs. Caroline Prinn, Miss Carrie Prin and William Buckingham are spending a few days with relatives in Portland.
Horace Buckingham has recently accepted a position with John Boynton, the baker, Groton.
Miss Emily Prinn, who has been looking after Dr. Sherman’s house during his absence, will perform the same duties for the F. G. Sargents while they are away at the beach.
Charles G. Sargent is making extensive improvements in his home by adding a bathroom and later will install electric lights.
Mrs. Julia B. Wall and Mrs. Maria J. Wall attended a meeting of Ayer Circle, C. of F. of A., held at Ayer on last week Thursday evening, and installed their officers.
Great interest is being taking in the list of sports and fire hose tryout which will be held in Forge Village on Saturday, August 5.
The Abbot Worsted Company has shut down the mill here this week, the many employees of the firm have grasped their opportunity and have enjoyed themselves in various ways.
Alvin Nehon has sold his valuable horse “Happy Jack,” and now has to travel on foot or the train.
Miss Minnie Hook of Nashua has been a recent visitor at the home of Miss Alice Gilson.
Mr. and Mrs. John Bennett of Beachmont have been recent visitors at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Wall.
William Peno is building a cosey [sic] bungalow on top of the so-called Dillon’s hill, which will be ready for occupancy about September 1.
Mark Palmer will soon erect a bungalow near the foot of Dillon’s hill, the cellar being about completed.
Saturday, August 12, 1911
Center. Owing to the fact that at the time the Congregational Sunday school went to Canobie lake for their annual picnic, a number of families, for various good reasons, could not attend, Mr. Wallace and Mr. Osgood arranged for another outing. This supplementary picnic took place at Nabnassett pond on Thursday of last week, and proved most successful and enjoyable. About fifty were in attendance and the day was spent in boating, playing baseball, croquet and a picnic dinner at noon. Ideal weather conditions added their full share to the day’s outing.
Miss Bertha H. Norris of Ayer was a guest in town on Sunday and attended at the Congregational church.
Miss Hazel B. Hartford is enjoying a week’s stay at Silver lake, Newton Junction, N.H., the guest of Miss Dorothy Jaques.
A real estate transfer of much interest this last week is the sale by George E. Gould of his place [7 Depot St.] to John P. Wright. Mr. Wright has been trying for some time to secure a home for himself and family in Westford and he is to be congratulated in attaining this centrally located property, consisting of a good set of buildings and about four acres of land. Mr. Gould plans to vacate as soon as possible, but has not fully planned where he will locate. His removal from town means the loss to the community of a useful and capable man.
Mrs. Effie Bennett Cann and little two-months-old daughter of Somerville are visiting at the parental home.
At the next meeting of the grange, August 17, there will be one of the speakers from the state grange and special music is being arranged for. There will also be business of importance to transact, making arrangements for the entertainment of the North Middlesex Pomona grange, which meets here early in September. Let the members rally to a good attendance after the vacation.
The next three Sundays, beginning tomorrow, will be the vacation at the Congregational church. There will be no morning service, but the evening service at seven o’clock will be sustained under the auspices of the C.E. society. Mr. and Mrs. Wallace will spend part of the vacation at Northfield. Among summer guests it was pleasant to have in the congregation last Sunday morning were Mrs. Martha Taylor Howard and Mrs. Edward Atwood.
Mrs. J. Herbert Fletcher and son John are expected home this weekend, after several weeks’ sojourn at Francistown, N.H., and Ludlow, Vt.
The H. V. Hildreths were at camp over Sunday and Marden Seavey was the guest of Leon Hildreth.
Mrs. Katherine Allen and Madam Allen have been guests this week at H. V. Hildreth’s.
Frank P. Hawkes and son Wesley of Malden visited at A. W. Hartford’s during the week.
Mrs. Alvin Fisher and Miss Clara Fisher are spending the month of August at the Fisher camp, Forge pond.
It was a keen, alert game played between Westford and Townsend last Saturday afternoon at Townsend. The Westford team won the game with a score of 4 to 3. A good delegation from Westford went up to enjoy the game. Today, August 12, the Westford team plays with the Shirley team at Ayer, and those interested are quite on the qui vive as to the outcome of the afternoon’s sport. Each team has a game to its credit, and this is to be the rubber game. A good number are planning to attend from here.
A meeting in the interest of socialism was held in the town hall on Monday evening. The speaker was Ex-Representative Carey of Haverhill, who presented the cause well. Between seventy-five and one hundred were in attendance. Edmund Baker was instrumental in making the arrangements and carrying out the details of the affair. A special car brought and returned passengers from Brookside and West Chelmsford.
Tax Rate. At last the assessors have received the state tax, the legislature having adjourned. This state tax amounted for this town to $3,300, county tax $2166.95, and highway tax $162.50. The assessors have given the warrant to the collector and he has issued his bills.
The total tax levy is $31,245.18. The amount on real estate $20,354.35, and on personal property $9,087.97, and the moth tax $334.86. The number of poll taxes is 734 [at $2.00 each]. The tax rate per $1,000 is $14.20 against $16.00 last year. This decreased rate is especially due to increase on personal property.
Those paying tax to the town of fifty dollars or over are given. Owing to the decreased rate this list is considerably lessened from last year:
Abiel J. Abbot | $326.59 |
Mrs. Alice M. Abbot | 231.46 |
John C. Abbot | 291.07 |
Heirs of Mrs. Caroline Atwood | 61.77 |
Abbot Worsted Co., Graniteville | 1905.85 |
Abbot Worsted Co., Forge Village | 4666.79 |
Mrs. B. H. Bailey | 56.70 |
W. F. Balch | 50.55 |
Alvin J. Blaisdell | 68.95 |
Heirs of Mrs. Mary E. Brigham | 179.71 |
Augustus Bunce | 50.63 |
John Burbeck | 104.59 |
Heirs of C. M. Cummings | 52.61 |
[George T. Day – omitted; see Aug. 19] | |
William H. Decatur | 75.50 |
David Desmond | 83.63 |
Matthew F. Downs | 69.50 |
Frank C. Drew | 123.91 |
William C. Edwards | 88.27 |
Mrs. Louisa Edwards | 60.24 |
John Feeney | 57.02 |
Alec Fisher | 50.71 |
Mrs. Alvin Fisher | 83.85 |
Elbert H. Flagg | 174.86 |
H. E. Fletcher & Co. | 326.59 |
Harry N. Fletcher | 165.70 |
Herbert E. Fletcher | 285.32 |
J. M. Fletcher | 76.73 |
J. Herbert Fletcher | 59.51 |
Mrs. Mary E. Fletcher | 53.50 |
Sherman H. Fletcher | 88.90 |
Mrs. Sarah J. Foster | 116.44 |
H. E. and E. H. Gould | 96.94 |
George E. Gould | 59.51 |
David L. Greig | 108.99 |
Heirs of Nathan Hamlin | 56.94 |
John A. Healy | 153.37 |
Henry J. Healy | 65.84 |
Frank C. Hildreth | 89.41 |
H. V. Hildreth | 78.33 |
Miss Ella F. Hildreth | 494.48 |
Charles D. Colburn | 55.02 |
Heywood & Fletcher | 71.85 |
Calvin Howard | 68.01 |
George O. Jackson | 76.91 |
A. E. Jenne | 59.71 |
H. O. Keyes | 171.77 |
Miss Ida E. Leighton | 53.96 |
Angus MacDonald | 124.77 |
Mrs. George M. McGregor | 53.45 |
Joseph Marshall | 63.50 |
John McMaster | 62.02 |
W. J. Merritt | 166.65 |
Henry J. Murphy | 76.20 |
George W. Nesmith | 59.37 |
N.E.T.&T. Co. | 151.80 |
H. G. Osgood | 55.67 |
Lewis P. Palmer | 156.78 |
Richard D. Prescott | 75.35 |
Mrs. Augusta Prescott | 52.54 |
C. O. and A. E. Prescott | 77.25 |
H. B. Read | 85.94 |
Albert Reeves | 56.67 |
Mrs. Rachael Reed | 298.47 |
Mrs. Alma M. Richardson | 65.32 |
Allan C. Sargent | 177.32 |
Frederick G. Sargent | 154.77 |
Sargent’s Sons Corp. | 299.27 |
George A. Griffin, trustee for estate of C. G. Sargent | 1180.11 |
H. M. Seavey | 61.29 |
John T. Simpson | 62.02 |
Mrs. Elizabeth Splaine | 56.80 |
Oscar R. Spalding | 523.07 |
Stony Brook R.R. | 65.18 |
J. F. Sweetser | 129.09 |
Mrs. N. L. Tuttle | 66.53 |
O. V. Wells, M.D. | 67.32 |
Westford Water Co. | 154.07 |
T. A. E. Wilson | 59.10 |
W. L. Woods | 96.07 |
Mrs. A. S. Wright | 80.14 |
Hammett D. Wright | 105.54 |
Perley E. Wright | 62.43 |
Walter C. Wright | 124.96 |
Heirs of N. H. Wright | 348.16 |
Lowell & Fitchburg St. R.R. | 108.98 |
Largest non-resident payers are: | |
J. Henry Fletcher | $203.51 |
Brookside Worsted Mills | 1226.53 |
George C. Moore | 257.76 |
Miss Martina Gage | 407.45 |
Gifts to the Library. During the past few weeks Mr. Raymond of Boston, who is well-known here from his former gifts to the town, has favored the library with several specimens from his collection of rare and beautiful works of art. The ten vases and jars which he has given recently are proving of great interest to those in the community who appreciate such work for its beauty and educational value, and to the strangers who always visit us during the summer. Five of the vases are from China, three of them being of crackle ware, one of ox blood, and one of Confucius ware. Two fine specimens of Japanese Satsuma complete the Oriental collection. The remaining three represent the work of European nations by samples of Royal Worcester, French delft and a beautiful German ware. These pieces form a permanent addition to the decorations and will repay careful study.
About Town. Mrs. Sarah B. Wheeler of Palo Alto, Cal., although eighty years old, is making her annual visit to New England relatives and friends. She called this week upon her niece, Mrs. George F. Snow of West Chelmsford. Other relatives, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Stark of Nashua, N.H., brought her down in their auto, coming through Westford Center for the sake of the mountain view and a glimpse at our beautiful village.
Miss Sarah Richardson of the Fletcher farm at Brookside took a carriage drive to Oak hill to see the busy and modern equipped stone quarry of Hon. Herbert E. Fletcher & Co. She saw much that was new indeed, and for a woman of ninety-three she manifested much interest in it all. She was accompanied by her niece, Miss Ella Wright of Cleveland, Ohio. Augustus F. Whidden, in his usual courteous manner, took them for this drive.
Mrs. Weeks, who is stopping in town, had a most interesting call this week from some relatives in Lowell. There were four generations came out in their auto, the little girls, their mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. The latter was over ninety-one and was thoroughly enjoying the drive through the country.
Prof. N. B. Parker of Ricker Classical institute, Me., has been visiting his college friend, J. A. Taylor, and Miss Edith M. Wallace of Nashua, N.H., has been the guest of her college friend, Mrs. Martha Taylor Howard.
W. R. Taylor and J. A. Taylor leave today for a vacation at York Beach, Me.
Amos Polley of the Prairie farm has just completed digging a new well on Francis hill with an aqueduct attachment for watering cattle in the pasture. This make five wells on the farm, two on Francis hill, three on the prairie.
The old Walker homestead on Main street has again been visited by the relatives of its old hearthstone, Mrs. Clara Littlefield and son Edward of Fitchburg and the Misses Elsie and Minnie Coffin of Berwick, Me., were those who added social cheer to this old homestead.
A Good Arrangement. Those usual annual prizes without any blanks, the taxbills, after some delay have arrived for pay. Many towns came to a standstill in declaring the rate of the taxation waiting for the state tax levy by the legislature at its final adjournment. Now either the assessors of Westford are very precocious pupils in taxation, or else assessors in other towns are needlessly careful in proceeding to declare the rate of taxation before the legislature adjourned, for the assessors of Westford declared a tax rate of $14.20 on a thousand many weeks before the legislature was troubled with ideas of adjourning.
This is a perfectly safe method of procedure, based as it is on the previous years’ state tax, which has never varied enough to affect the rate of taxation one mill, and what variation more or less occurs in the state tax is covered by what is known as “overlaying,” which cannot exceed five percent of the total amount voted to be raised. If Westford voted to raise $30,000, the assessors would be justified in law in declaring a rate that would raise, $31,500. This would cover any increase in state tax and many other unexpected abatement of taxes, and other unexpected small liabilities. At any rate the assessors of Westford have been in the habit in recent years of going right to the business end of taxation, the rate, just as though there was no legislature to adjourn. And the tax collector who has been legally elected by the people taken his oath, filed his bonds with the selectmen, need not abide the adjournment of the legislature before receiving taxes that are voluntarily delivered to him.
Socialistic Address. There was an address on the principles of socialism at the town hall, Monday evening, by ex-representative James N. Carey of Haverhill. The audience was not very large owing partly to the fact that the meeting was not properly advertised and then there was the weather and the season of the year. The speaker was fair and dignified in the treatment of his subject and admitted that he had no quarrel with men, but with the system. The vital thought in his address was “The tools of industry belong to the people and not to the few” and he claimed that under socialism, “All poverty and immorality would disappear,” which is the equivalent of saying that under the system of socialism those who could never wisely manage the dollars they have earned would suddenly become wise financiers.
Under socialism every man would have an opportunity to develop his mind. What is to hinder it under the present system? If the saloons are crowded to the sidewalk while the public libraries echo for want of an audience, who is to blame, the system or the individual? The prodigals who have taken their inheritance and traded it for husks have no case against the system.
What socialism needs to be ballasted with more than anything else is more sense rather than more cents. The system of Plymouth Rock is not the creator of poverty or prodigals’ sons.
Forge Village. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are entertaining friends from Lowell and New York.
The Misses Long of Lowell visited at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Fennimore Morton over Sunday.
Fred Longbottom of Arlington Heights visited in the village on Saturday.
Jean B. Jean of St. Albans, Vt., is visiting relatives and friends here this week.
Ambrose Snyder of Hartford, Conn., has been spending a few days in the village as guest of relatives and friends.
Miss Clara Valentine of North Chelmsford spent Sunday as a guest of Miss Emily Catchpole.
Miss Eliza Daly returned home on Monday after a very pleasant visit with her nephew, William Daly, of Boston.
John May has returned from New York city, where he has been spending the past week.
Mrs. Mary I. Drake entertained Mrs. Elizabeth Richardson and daughter of Townsend this week.
Miss Grace Lawrence is spending a few days with relatives in Reading.
Work was resumed in the Abbot & Company’s mills on Monday morning, after a vacation of one week. Until further notice, the combing, carding and wash rooms will run four days a week, the spinning and twisting running five days. On Monday the fifty-four-hour schedule will commence, the mill closing at 5:05 p.m.
Rev. A. L. Bumpus conducted the services held in St. Andrew’s mission on Sunday. Mr. Bumpus will officiate at the regular services tomorrow.
Mr. and Mrs. Henry Catchpole entertained at their home on Sunday, Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Myers and family, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Mason and children, and James Kitchen, all of Lowell, and Mr. and Mrs. H. O. Dege of North Billerica.
The two little Misses Myers are spending the week as guests of their aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Catchpole.
Mr. and Mrs. William Weaver spent the past week with Mrs. Henry Tyler of Worcester.
Miss May Lord, who is taking a course of training at the South Framingham hospital, was the week-end guest at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. David Lord.
Mrs. Thomas Doye and sons of Worcester visited at the home of Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Brown last week.
Miss Sarah Precious has returned after a pleasant visit at the home of her sister, Mrs. Michael Keefe, of Townsend Harbor.
Norman Nicolls of Everett and friend spent the week-end at the Nicoll cottage on Forge pond.
Mrs. Susan Reed and Mr. and Mrs. Goodchild, Walter Reed and son Randolph of Lowell are guests at the home of Mrs. Lucretia Reed. Mrs. Reed celebrated her sixty-fourth wedding anniversary on Sunday, four generations sitting down to dinner. Mrs. Reed is in her eighty-fourth year and is enjoying the best of health.
Miss Abbie M. Blaisdell of Wamesit visited at the home of Mr. and Mrs. James Wilson over Sunday.
William Longbottom of Arlington Heights is the guest of his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. William Burnett, of Pleasant street.
Mr. and Mrs. Albert E. Jones and Miss Ethel L. Jones of Worcester returned home on Sunday after a most enjoyable visit of two weeks spent with relatives in this village.
Mrs. Gammon and baby Charles, and Miss Mary Durkin of Lowell, are guests of the Misses Walsh this week.
Percy Wilson spent last week visiting in Bridgeport, Conn., and Providence, R.I.
Muster. The firemen’s muster held in this village last Saturday afternoon, under the auspices of the John Edwards hose company of the Westford fire department, was certainly carried out in first-class shape, and will be remembered for a long time as one of the most enjoyable gala days ever held.
The village was open to the visitors all day and evening, and every courtesy was extended to all who took opportunity to enter its limits. Forge Village presented a pleasing appearance with its well kept streets and closely trimmed lawns with many floral displays.
The hose house and fire wagon of the John Edwards company were most beautiful in their decorations of flags and bunting, and many residences along the line of sports displayed “Old Glory.”
Shortly after two o’clock, the hose trials for the Clara Choate Samuels cup were run off. This event had been looked forward to with deep interest for several weeks, for the companies competing from the three villages have many followers who were certain their respective choice would win.
The following members of the Lowell fire department acted as judges: C. D. Foley, starter; Chief Charles Stackpole, Capt. D. J. Hurley, timers; Capt. J. F. McKissock, referee.
The contest called for each team to run one hundred yards with two hundred feet of those on a roll, lay one hundred feet of hose, make connections to hydrant, attach nozzle and get water. After a most exciting contest the [Graniteville] A. R. Choate hose company won out with time at twenty-five seconds. It was a close call as (Westford) E. M. Abbot hose company hit it at twenty-six seconds. Each of the teams had their trouble owing to blow outs at the hydrant or nozzle, but all did fine work, however handicapped.
At the conclusion of the hose races, Capt. McKissock announced the result of the different trials, as we set forth, and formally presented the silver cup to the A. R. Choate company. Capt. McKissock also congratulated all three companies and in a neat speech ended his remarks by saying that of all like events at which he has officiated, that the Westford fire department were the finest fellows he had ever judged. For, as he said, they are good winners and they are good losers, and it was a pleasure for him and his associates to be with them.
The hose company races were run off on Pleasant street, after which the following list of sports were run off on Bradford street:
Boys’ half-mile race, prizes $2 and $1—Francis Gower 1st, William Prinn 2d.
Girls’ 100-yd. dash, prizes $2 and $1—Annie Orr 1st, Beatrice Hosmer 2d.
Girls’ 100-yd. dash, under 15 years, prizes $2 and $1—Emma Woods 1st, Beatrice Hosmer 2d.
Men’s 100-yd. dash, open, prizes $3 and $2—George Gower 1st, Frank Connell 2d.
Boy’s 100-yd. dash, under 15 years, prizes $2 and $1—Stanley Prackneck 1st, William Prinn 2d.
One-half mile, open, prizes $3 and $2—Aime Boucher 1st, Joe Spade 2d.
Ladies’ boat race, double scull, with steersman, one-half mile, prizes $3 and $2—Edith Precious and Helen Lord 1st, Stella Carkin and Mrs. Annie Precious 2d. Bob Orr steered first boat and William DeRoehn the second boat.
This ended the sports of the day, which was on the whole a great success, being very largely attended, many being present from out-of-town, and all enjoying a thoroughly good time.
At 5:30 o’clock an excellent banquet was served in Abbot hall, which was attended by all three companies of the Westford fire department and their invited guests, at the close of which Chief Fletcher, in behalf of the fire department extended his warmest congratulations to the John Edwards hose company for the fine entertainment given and also spoke of the fine feeling of good fellowship which existed at all times in the different companies. He also extended his thanks to the members of the Lowell fire department for their presence on this occasion, which helped in a great measure towards the success of the affair.
In the evening a social dance was held in Abbot hall, which was very largely attended. The Colonial orchestra furnished music for dancing, and refreshments were served during intermission.
The whole affair was in charge of the following committees:
Sporting—W. C. Precious, chairman; William Goodall, Frank Lowther, J. W. Catchpole.
Dance—Frank Connell, general manager; William Goodall, asst.; John Spinner, floor director; Capt. Edward T. Hanley, William DeRoehn, Charles Flanagan, Aime Boucher, aids.
Graniteville. The Dixwells of Lowell met the Graniteville baseball club on the local grounds here last Saturday in what promised to be one of the best games of the season. Shortly after the game had started, it was found that the much touted Dixwells were greatly out-classed and Graniteville won easily by the score of 11 to 3. “Jack” Spinner was on the slab for the local team and had the Dixwells completely at his mercy, only two hits being made off his delivery and he struck out twelve men. He was ably supported behind the bat by his brother “Dick.”
Miss Mollie Devaney of Lowell has been a recent guest of Miss Catherine McCarty.
Miss Mollie Burke and Miss Mary King of Lowell have been week-end guests of Miss Winnie King.
Mr. and Mrs. Harry Quinn and son Gilbert of Somerville have been recent guests at the home of Mr. and Mrs. F. S. Furbush.
At St. Catherine’s church on Sunday morning two masses were celebrated by the pastor, Rev. Schofield. He also announced that the mass book that was recently presented to the church was the gift of Miss Emma Ward of Forge Village, and the cruets used at the offertory were the gifts of Daniel Mahoney of Westford.
Alvin Nelson has recently purchased a Flanders “20” automobile of the runabout type of Robert Murphy & Sons, Ayer.
Mr. and Mrs. Walker K. Putney of Needham, with their two sons, Alfred and Willis Putney, are spending a few days at the home of Fred Parker, before taking up their abode in Charlemont, where Mr. Putney has accepted a lucrative position as superintendent of schools.
Mr. and Mrs. Clarence McLenna and friend, Miss Clara McCall of Harrisville, were week-end visitors at the home of Miss Lillian McLenna.
Mr. and Mrs. George McCarty are spending their vacation in Harrisville.
Mrs. Winnifred Healy and daughter, Miss Mary E. Healy, the popular milliner, are enjoying the sea breezes of Revere.
Mr. and Mrs. John B. Carmichael have returned from their vacation very much sunburned, but thoroughly rested.
Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Sullivan and daughter, Miss Nora, of Marlboro, have been recent guests of Mr. and Mrs. John A. Healy.
Miss Fanny McCarthy is enjoying her vacation at the various beaches.
Miss Fanny Counter of Fitchburg, but formerly of this village, visited relatives here last week.
Miss Mamie Healy and Miss Flora Stewart spent last week at the various beaches.
Word has been received here of the death of little Bernardette Dudivior, who with her mother and aunt and brother Russell, have been spending their vacation down in St. John, N.B. Charles Dudivior is employed as chauffeur for Julian Cameron of Westford. When he received word that his little daughter was ill he immediately set off and that was the word that he sent back to Wallace Walsh, brother of Mrs. Dudivior. Much sympathy is extended to the parents of the child by the people of this village.
Miss Anna Harrington of Leominster is spending her vacation at the home of her sister, Mrs. Henry J. Healy.
Wesley Hawkes, the genial station agent, has resumed his duties this week after a forced vacation of sickness.
Miss Ruth Furbush has returned home after spending her vacation with friends in the Catskill mountains.
Miss Mary Provost and daughter Mary spent their vacation at Revere beach, returning home on Sunday night.
Miss Etta Wall has returned home after spending her vacation with her sister, Mrs. Frank D. Riney, at Lowell.
Walter Wright, our postmaster, spent Sunday at Pawtucket, R.I.
Death. Edward Leland, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Leland, a popular young man of this village, passed away at his home here on Monday afternoon, aged 22 years and 7 months, after a long and lingering illness. He leaves to mourn his loss, his father and mother, a sister, Mrs. Ellery Darling of Dedham, and three brothers, Allan G. of Limerick, Me., Fred J. of Dedham and Henry of this village. The funeral took place from St. Catherine’s church on Wednesday morning at 7:30, and he was buried in St. Patrick’s cemetery, Lowell. Undertaker O’Connell had charge.
Miss Alice Gilson of this village is spending her vacation in New York with her relatives, Mr. and Mrs. William Gilson.
Firemen’s Muster. The firemen’s gala day, given under the auspices of the John Edwards hose company of the Westford fire department, was held in Forge Village on last Saturday afternoon and evening under conditions that were considered in every way ideal. Shortly after two o’clock, the principal event of the day, which was the hose trials for the Clara Choate Samuels cup, was run off. This event had been looked forward to with deep interest for several weeks, for the companies competing from the three villages, Westford, Forge Village and Graniteville, have many followers and everyone was anxious to have their own town win. After a spirited contest, in which each team had three trials, the race and cup was won by the A. R. Choate hose company of Graniteville, who did the trick in twenty-five seconds.
Saturday, August 19, 1911
Annual Outing and Reunion. The annual reunion of the members of [the] Cavalry association took place on Thursday of last week and was carried out under the most pleasant conditions. The weather, upon which so much depended for the successful carrying out of the day’s plans, was most favorable, even if it was pretty warm. All the events of the day took place at Whitney park and at the town hall. There was a good attendance of the townspeople and from the surrounding towns.
In the morning the clay pigeon shoot, which was a new feature, took the attention of many. This was participated in by a good number. Edward Abbot was the winner and received the trophy of a beautiful silver cup. A concert by the Chelmsford band took place during the morning.
Shortly preceding the appointed hour of 1:30, the company formed in line headed by the band and marched to the town hall, where dinner was served. This was managed by the men of the Unitarian church and was very much of a credit with its excellent and varied menu, and prompt and courteous service.
After all had done full justice to this meal, Capt. Sherman H. Fletcher, president of the day, called to order and spoke briefly and interestingly. He spoke of the fact that there had been no deaths in the membership during the year. Capt. Fletcher called for any among the company who were members of the old organization of the old Troop F, and six responded by rising. He also spoke feeling of the absence of Capt. H. W. Wilson, who was absent, being very ill at his home in Carlisle.
Capt. Wilson was seriously injured recently by being kicked by a horse, and at first his life was despaired of, but he is now convalescing slowly with all that skill and care can do. A message had come from him earlier in the day, bringing his greetings and regret that he could not be present, but said he should be with the gathering in thought. By a hearty, unanimous vote, one of the members was appointed to telephone from the hall to Capt. Wilson’s home, bearing a message of sympathy and hearty greetings from the members in session. Edward Fisher was appointed to attend to this duty.
Any long or extended speech making was dispensed with and Capt. Fletcher introduced most felicitously S. Thompson Blood of Concord Junction, a member of the association. Mr. Blood is a whole host in himself and gave a group of stories in his own inimitable way, and by special request gave “The country store,” by James Whitcomb Riley. After many a hearty laugh, the group adjourned, some to the business meeting and some to the park.
At Whitney park a second band concert took place and another feature of the afternoon was a ball game between the Y.M.C.A. of Lowell and Chelmsford Center, with a score of 7 to 5, in favor of the latter. The game went ten innings.
At the business meeting the following officers were chosen:
Capt. S. H. Fletcher, Westford, pres.; Capt. H. W. Wilson, Carlisle, vice pres.; Charles Bartlett, Chelmsford, treas.; Edward Fisher, Westford, sec.; Caleb L. Smith, Lowell, William J. Quigley, North Chelmsford, Everett Williams, Groton, Edward Fisher, Westford, standing com.
One new member was admitted to membership. And thus the fourth annual reunion of the association passes into history.
Center. Henry M. Shorey had the misfortune to lose a valuable young horse last week.
Mrs. O. V. Wells and daughter Elizabeth are enjoying a two-weeks’ sojourn at Bakersfield, Vt., which is Dr. Wells’ home town.
Alec MacDougall is improving his cosey [sic] home on Boston road with a piazza.
The older generation of church-goers of the Congregational church, who remember Henry J. McCoy, who was for nine years the secretary of the Lowell Y.M.C.A., and during that time came up to Westford and held some very successful special meetings, will be interested in his career in Y.M.C.A. work on the Pacific coast. A recent paper characterizes him as “a big-hearted, buoyant man of courage and faith, who has made a strong impress on the young men of that region during the years he has spent there,” and gives a most interesting resume of his successful work.
Motorman John Sherlock had a day off duty on Tuesday and enjoyed a trip with Mrs. Sherlock to Worcester.
Charles A. Chamberlain has been a recent visitor in town.
Charles O. Prescott has returned from a two-weeks stay at Manomet with Rev. and Mrs. C. R. Marshall. The later are now staying at Old Orchard beach and Mr. Prescott joins them there for this week-end.
Principal Dexter Coggshall of the academy is preparing to move from the Fred A. Hildreth cottage into a part of Mrs. Helen K. Frost’s house.
During the storm last Tuesday afternoon the electric car was put out of commission near Bannister’s corner as it was making the last trip of the day toward Brookside. This caused the omission of the two early trips on Wednesday, after which the regular trips were made.
Martin Halloran, who has been visiting Daniel and Eugene Maloney for the past month, returned to his home in Waltham the first of the week. Little Mary Halloran of Waltham is spending a few days with Stephen Maloney.
The H. V. Hildreths are enjoying a sojourn at their camp at Forge pond and during this week the F. A. Hildreths have been staying at the former’s village home.
Rev. and Mrs. David Wallace are gathering recreation and inspiration at the summer meetings at Northfield and H. G. Osgood has also been spending a part of the week with them.
Arthur E. Day conducted the single service of the day on Sunday evening at the Congregational church. It was a well sustained meeting with the “Beginnings of temperance,” as the subject. Mrs. C. A. Blaney assisted the service with a well rendered solo.
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Fisher are spending a vacation at Swampscott and at Camden, Me.
Owing to the demand for summer fiction, twenty new volumes of good readable stories have been added to the library.
The Westford baseball team took the laurels at Ayer last Saturday in the game between Shirley and Westford, with the score of 12 to 9.
Inadvertently the name of George T. Day was omitted from the list of large taxpayers in last week’s paper.
Some people have been heard to regret that Whitney park was not used more. One of the pleasant afternoons this week, the writer observed taking place at one time some good sets of tennis with on-lookers going on at the tennis court, a good game of croquet by members of the croquet club, a crowd of boys on the baseball diamond were doing practice work, and a good group of children were enjoying the swings, and many times this is largely duplicated. It would seem that at such times it fully justified its aim of beautiful recreation and enjoyment.
Fire. The bells rang an alarm for fire about ten o’clock last Monday forenoon, which proved to be at the Virgil C. Mitchell house at Minot’s Corner. The origin of the fire was such that it had an ominous start and had it not been discovered at a time of day when the family were right at hand, would have proved serious. The house has a large old-fashioned central chimney with brick oven. This oven had been bricked up, but the fire flue from it opened into the kitchen chimney which formed a blind pocket in which a mass of soot had collected. This got afire and the bricks became so heated that they set fire to the woodwork outside.
Mrs. Mitchell, who was busy nearby, began to smell smoke and simultaneously flames broke through the partition. The family used a hand extinguisher and with a neighbor’s telephone summoned help. Several members of the Edward M. Abbot hose company responded and did good work in putting out the fire, with the result of a damage of not perhaps exceeding fifty dollars.
Anniversary. Mr. and Mrs. Arthur E. Day observed the tenth anniversary of their wedding day very pleasantly at their home last Monday. Owing to the advent two weeks previous of a little daughter [Viola M. Day born July 31, 1911] into the family circle, the affair was a quiet one and somewhat in the nature of a surprise to Mrs. Day, but was full of the atmosphere of loving home cheer. Miss Mary Morin, whose very name is synonymous with household helpfulness, carried out the successful plans for the occasion. A festive dinner was served with nice menu, best china and pretty decorations at which were present the family circle, consisting of Mr. and Mrs. Day, their son Norman, Miss Edna Day and the baby daughter, the family physician, Dr. Christie, Mrs. Houghton Osgood, a special friend of the family, and Miss Morin.
Arthur Edward Day and Margaret Louisa Gunter were married at Wollaston, Ont., the home and native place of the bride, August 14, 1901. Of the five children born to them, they have been called upon to part with three by death.
About Town. Our bright and good natured Seth W. Bannister is busy these vacation days taking the school census by appointment of the school committee.
Daniel H. Sheehan has finished sawing a large lot of lumber in Lincoln and has removed his portable mill to a large lot at Groton Ridges near Ridge Hill Tavern.
George H. McGregor of Westford Corner has resigned his position as night watchman at Brookside mills, which he has held for many years, and Jean St. John has been pointed out to this sleepless duty.
Two foxes have recently been playing hide and seek around the poultry yard of J. Willard Fletcher, and J. Willard Fletcher gathered to himself a rifle shooting apparatus and went forth to hide and seek. The foxes now hide and seek no more around that henhouse door.
Miss Wright was present at her summer home the evening of the fatal lamp explosion which caused the death of Miss Kenna, who had been employed at the old homestead for four years. With characteristic kindness, Miss Wright accompanied Miss Kenna to the hospital in Lowell, paying all the hospital and funeral expenses, and the added expense of a private room at the hospital.
The reunion of the Decatur family was held at Nabnassett pond on Thursday. A bill of particulars will accompany Westford news next week.
W. R. and J. A. Taylor returned from York beach on Wednesday.
The recent rains have sharpened the appetite of the potato bugs on the Prairie farm. The owner is administering an antidote for too much appetite.
Adding Improvements. The new laid wall that surrounds the land at the corner of Lowell and Brookside roads was the gift of William [sic, should be John Harris] McBride, in memory of his wife [Amy Elizabeth nee Wright], who had strong attachments for this old historic homestead [120 Lowell Rd.], she being a sister of Miss Ella Wright and niece of Miss Sarah Richardson. Mrs. McBride died about a year ago at her home in Cleveland, Ohio.
Workmen are now busy with other improvements at this old homestead, removing the gathered sediments of years from the little brook that gushes down the northern slope of Francis hill close by the homestead, where the lawn is being fertilized from the excavations from the brook. When these beginnings are completed a new wall will replace the old wooden fence by the roadside. These improvements are in charge of Augustus F. Whidden, the well-known Oak hill landscape gardener.
Graniteville. C. G. Sargent’s Sons Corp., makers of textile machinery, have started on full time, commencing this week, after having been on short time for several weeks.
The mills of the Abbot Worsted Co., commenced on their new schedule of fifty-four hours per week on Monday, August 14, but the mill will not run on Saturdays until further notice.
Miss Jessie M. Agnew of West Chelmsford, with Mrs. Jane Brummette and daughter, Miss Caroline Brummette, of Washington, D.C., have been recent guests of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Wall.
Word has been recently received here, from Fred Wall, who with his brother William and wife are now in San Francisco, Cal., that they are getting along finely, but were somewhat disturbed by the earthquake that they had out there a short time ago.
On Tuesday morning at 7:30 mass was celebrated in St. Catherine’s church by Rev. Doherty. Benediction was given at 7:30 in the evening. Owing to the severe rain storm very few people attended services in the evening.
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Dudivori [sic] and little son Russell have returned from their vacation which was spent in St. John, N.B. their vacation was saddened owing to the death of their daughter Bernardette, which occurred in New Brunswick.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank P. Hawkes and son Wesley have returned home after a few days spent with Mr. and Mrs. Wesley Hawkes of this village.
Mr. and Mrs. P. Henry Harrington were auto guests of Mr. and Mrs. Walter J. Merritt of Westford, on a trip to Boston and vicinity last week.
John Horan of Charlestown is visiting relatives here this week.
William Wall and Miss Rachel Wall spent a few days last week visiting friends in Fitchburg.
Miss Fanny McCarthy has returned home, having spent the last two weeks at the various beaches.
Mrs. D. W. Harrington is visiting her cousin, Mrs. P. H. Clarke, in Worcester.
Miss Abbie Larkin of North Chelmsford, who is stopping with Mr. and Mrs. Henry Provost, is very much improved and hopes to be able to return home soon.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Riney, with Miss Alice and Miss Etta May Sheehan of Lowell, have been recent visitors here.
Master Freddie Robinson of Westford, but formerly of this village, underwent a very successful operation this week in having his adenoids removed. Dr. Sherman performed the operation.
Miss Catherine Conley of this village has returned from her vacation which was spent in Lynn.
Forge Village. The two new houses which are being erected by Abbot & Co., in Orchard street, to be fitted up with all modern conveniences, are well near completion, and will be ready for occupancy at an early date.
The Misses Emma and Lillian Holt of Andover are visiting their aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Richard D. Prescott.
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Smith of Pond street entertained Mrs. Mary McCann of Yonkers, N.Y., and the Misses Hattie and Mollie Marrs of Lowell over Sunday.
The Page hose company of Ayer, who have been camping in Mr. Parrott’s new cottage on the shores of Forge pond, broke camp last Sunday.
Miss Olive Prescott and Edward Prescott of Reading have recently visited their cousin, Miss Grace Lawrence.
Mrs. Maria Smith and daughter Fannie of Tyngsboro were guests at the home of Mrs. Harriette E. Randall the first of the week.
Mrs. Mary I. Drake entertained at her home over Sunday, Mr. and Mrs. T. T. Holden of Yonkers, N.Y., and Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Howe of Lancaster.
Miss Bertha Wilson visited friends in South Framingham last week.
Mr. and Mrs. Everett Nicholls and family of Malden are spending the rest of the season at their cottage on Forge pond.
Mrs. William Burnett and her grandson, Master William A. Longbottom, of Lexington, spent Thursday at Revere beach.
The Misses Ella Donovan, Agnes Donovan and Mary Ward of Roxbury are enjoying their vacation at the home of Mr. and Mrs. James Wilson. Mr. and Mrs. Frank Gardes of Boston were also visitors of Mr. and Mrs. Wilson over Sunday.
Miss Rose Dufort of Leominster, who recently underwent an operation for appendicitis at a private hospital, is visiting at the home of her sister, Mrs. Hugh Daly, of Pond street.
Miss Ruth Griffin of Ayer was the guest of Miss Theresa Lowther last week Friday.
William Bennett of Providence, R.I., was the guest of his sister, Mrs. William Hosmer, and brother, Joseph Bennett during the past week.
Many from the village attended the birthday party given in honor of little Miss Florence Blodgett and her cousin, Master William Blodgett, at the Groton Ridge on last Saturday evening. A most delightful evening was spent in games, music and dancing, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all present. The little tots were the recipients of many presents; also, a mammoth birthday cake. At a late hour the merry party broke up, all wishing little Florence and William many happy returns of the day. The visitors were conveyed to their homes in a large barge, which was a most enjoyable closing of the evening’s entertainment.
The rain of Tuesday was very welcome here and certainly was appreciated by all, especially those who cultivate their own gardens.
Shirley
Death. Mrs. Mary A. Howard passed away on August 9, at her home at Woodsville, at the age of seventy-two years. She was born in Townsend in March 1839, but had spent the greater part of her life in Shirley at the house where she died. Her father was Joseph E. Wright, and her mother was Lucy L. Blood. She married Stephen Howard of Woodstock, Conn., who enlisted in the civil war and was later killed in service. She had two children, a son and daughter, who were with her at the time of her death. Mrs. Brooks of Fitchburg cared for her during her sickness, which lasted for several weeks.
The funeral was held on Saturday, August 12, Rev. H. A. Cornell of Groton officiating. The body was carried to Westford for burial in the [West] cemetery there. Mr. Blood of Pepperell, undertaker, had charge of the funeral. The surviving relatives are Mrs. Blood of Pepperell, Horace Howard of Lexington and two grandchildren.
Saturday, August 26, 1911
Center. Walter Cutter has recently entertained as visitors at his home, his mother, Mrs. Ella Cutter, and his brother, Norman Cutter of Thompson, Conn.
Mrs. Homer M. Seavey, with her youngest son Gordon, has returned from enjoying well earned vacation days with friends at Clifton on the North shore.
Misses Ellen and Marion Gill of Waltham are guests at Mrs. J. H. Fletcher’s.
Mr. and Mrs. John P. Wright have been spending this week taking a trip to Nova Scotia, and for the rest of their vacation will go to South Royalston, Vt., where their daughters, Frances and Alice, have been staying for some time with their grandparents.
Warren E. Carkin has just completed a very neat garage for Dr. Wells and is now busy building a six-room cottage on the Carlisle road for the Whitney brothers, Hamilton and Nathaniel.
Rev. and Mrs. David Wallace, who have been spending some time at the summer conferences at Northfield, went last week for over Sunday by special invitation to Marlboro, N.H., to visit former parishioners.
Miss Ruth Fisher has been spending the week at Plymouth.
Dr. and Mrs. O. V. Wells and little daughter have returned from a very pleasant vacation spent at Bakersfield, Vt.
Walter J. Merritt has changed his E-M-F car for a more recent model of the same make.
Miss Mary Morin is having her house painted and repaired, and rooms in the east end are being thoroughly renovated and made into a cosy [sic] home for Miss Morin’s mother. George E. Gould is doing the work.
Miss Eva E. Fletcher entertained a very pleasant porch party consisting of a congenial group of friends at her home on Wednesday afternoon. Needle work, sociability and dainty refreshments made the afternoon pass very pleasantly.
Miss James Sutherland and friend, Miss Bailey, of Malden, have been spending their vacation with the former’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Sutherland.
The dance arranged for at the town hall last week Friday evening was postponed on account of the rain storm.
Alfred Sutherland, the well-known milkman, is away on a vacation in Woburn.
Mrs. C. H. Wright and Mrs. Lambert are at sterling in attendance at the camp meeting services.
Mrs. L. W. Wheeler conducted the single service of the day at the Congregational church last Sunday evening, the subject for the service being “Mountain scenes in bible story.” H. G. Osgood gave an interesting account of his recent stay at Northfield. Rev. Oscar Wells of Rochester, Vt., who has been visiting at his brother’s home here was also present and spoke interestingly on the topic. There will be one more Sunday of vacation, after which regular services will be resumed.
Mrs. A. W. Hartford has been spending vacation days at Old Orchard and at Portland, Me.
Ralph Bridgeford has bought the Barton place on Providence road. He expects to vacate the Coolidge place where he has lived for a number of years before October 1. This place was recently bought by Frank E. Miller, who expects to move in with his family this fall. Another real estate transfer of interest reported is the purchase of William Graves, of the Litchfield place, also known to older residents as the Waldo Cummings place.
Grange. At the meeting of the grange last week Thursday evening, state overseer, E. A. Chapman, of Ludlow, was the speaker of the evening and he proved one of the best speakers these patrons have listened to for some time. A genuine and wholesome personality and cheerful good sense permeated all that he said. A plea for the real spirit of fraternity, the power of individual effort and some phases of the school question was some of the points in [his] address that were well elucidated.
Mr. Chapman proved himself a versatile visitor for he was also an excellent singer and rendered a solo of nautical character, responding to a hearty encore with an Irish folklore ballad. There were also songs by Mrs. C. A. Blaney and E. G. Boynton, and cornet solo by Arthur T. Blodgett. At the business session, arrangements were made for the entertaining of the North Middlesex Pomona grange, which meets here on Friday, September 1.
About Town. Middlesex Pomona grange will hold the first meeting of the autumn season with Westford grange at the town hall on Friday, September 1. This is in accordance with the vote of Pomona grange to hold its meetings with the local granges.
The funeral of Mrs. Amelia Krouse took place from her home on the Chelmsford road last Saturday, Rev. H. L. Packard of Littleton conducting the services. Singing by Mrs. Charles Wright and Mrs. David L. Greig. The bearers were Albert Jenne, Arthur H. Burnham and Alvin Blaisdell. She leaves one daughter, Mrs. Rosenberg, in Denver, Cal. [sic], and her husband, Louis M. Krouse, of Westford. She was a woman of kindly disposition and cultivated and practiced the peaceful virtues. Burial was in Fairview cemetery under the direction of David L. Greig.
Rev. Benjamin H. Bailey has resigned as pastor of the Unitarian church in a letter to Abiel J. Abbot, clerk of the parish. The venerable old minister of the First Parish, with personality like one of the prophets of old, will leave a vacancy in parish and town. One of the old type of early New England personality.
Mrs. Clara Littlefield and daughters of Fitchburg, and Mrs. Wallace, another daughter of Waltham, and Mrs. Herbert Coffin and daughter of Maine, have been visiting Rev. Seth Walker of Chelmsford returning home on Friday.
Death. Mrs. Elizabeth M. Conner, who died in Lowell last week Thursday, was a native of Westford, the daughter of Thomas and Bridget (O’Brien) Horan, their home being on the farm now owned by Oliver Desjardens on the Stony Brook road. She was educated at the old Stony Brook school and Westford academy, and afterwards teaching several terms in town. She is survived by her husband, Michael J., one brother, John Horan, of Charlestown, three sisters, Mrs. Jasper Desjardens, Mrs. Oliver Desjardens and Mrs. Catherine Evarts, the two latter of Westford; four sons, Mathais [sic] F., Thomas J., and Councilman Frank A. Connor of Lowell, and Rev. William A. Connor of St. Paul’s church, Dorchester; three daughters, Mrs. James McNabb, Mrs. Charles D. Slatterly and Miss Sadie Connor.
The funeral took place last Saturday from the Immaculate Conception church. The services were attended by a large gathering of relatives and friends. A solemn funeral mass was celebrated by Rev. William A. Connor, a son of the deceased. Burial was in St. Patrick’s cemetery.
Mrs. Connor will long be remembered by her old schoolmates in the Stony Brook school as one of the bright, progressive scholars, of genial ways which made her a favorite on the playground (the middle of the road) of the old-time Stony Brook school.
Graniteville. The first annual field day of the Graniteville baseball club will be held on Labor day. Graniteville vs. Pawtucket Blues at one p.m. All kinds of sports.
Mrs. Arthur Charlton and daughter Agnes have returned to their home here, after spending a few days at Revere beach.
Miss Mary T. Loftus and her sister Mabel from Lowell, but formerly of this village, visited a friend here this week.
Next week the Abbot Worsted Company will close their mill from August 25 until September 5.
Miss Thersa [sic] Lowther of Forge Village spent Sunday as the guest of Mr. and Mrs. William H. Healy.
On Saturday, August 26, Stony Brookside will hold their first picnic at lake Nabnassett. There will be a ball game between Graniteville and West Chelmsford.
The lecture on India that was to have been given by J. J. Cornelius in the M.E. church last week Friday evening was given Friday, August 25, and the usual prayer meeting was held Thursday evening.
Miss Claire Payne has been visiting friends in Lowell this week.
George Day of Damariscotta, Me., father of Mrs. W. H. Sherman, has been a recent visitor at their home here.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Furbush and two daughters, Ruth and Helen, have returned home after a brief stay at Revere beach.
Mr. and Mrs. George Cutler of Bowdoinham, Me., have been recent guests of Dr. and Mrs. W. H. Sherman.
Forge Village. Charles Flanagan returned last Friday from a week’s visit in Maine.
Mrs. Albert B. Jones spent last Friday visiting relatives here.
Mrs. John Daly and little son Arthur are visiting her sister, Mrs. Donald Holt, of New York city.
Mrs. Emerson of Dedham is the guest of her daughter, Mrs. Stephen Healey, of Orchard street.
Mrs. James Delonage and Mrs. Richard Connell of North Billerica visited Mr. and Mrs. Miles Collins on Sunday.
Mrs. Edith McKinnon and baby Evelyn, and two sisters, the Misses Marion and Florence Tizzer, of Melrose, are at Sunrise cottage for the rest of the season.
Cameron school will reopen on September 5. Through the courtesy of Abbot Worsted Company, the grounds adjoining the school have been graded and swings and merry-go-round have been placed in the school yard for the benefit of the children while at play.
Dr. Harrison M. Bennett of Washington, D.C., is visiting Mrs. Harriet E. Randall. Mrs. Randall is also entertaining Miss Roxie Bennett of Worcester and her brother, Archie Bennett, of Boston.
Charles Coburn of Providence, R.I., is spending his vacation with his grandmother, Mrs. Mary Coburn.
The Misses Lillian and Marjorie Rose of Belmont are entertaining friends at their aunt’s cottage for two weeks.
Edmond Crompton has returned to Lowell after enjoying a six-weeks’ vacation at Harty’s Oak grove cottage.
Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Trull of Tewksbury has the Hart cottage for the next couple of weeks. With them are Misses Frances Trull, Rebecca Cameron, Madeline Hughes, Alice Foster, Jean Cameron, Malcolm Cameron and Henry Fessenden.
Mr. and Mrs. Johnson and family of Malden are at Mr. Ouillette’s cottage for a few days.
Abbot & Company are going to give their employees another vacation, commencing Friday night, and ending September 5.
Mrs. Samuel Eaton of Pond street is ill at her home.
Miss Elizabeth Dufort and Mr. Lapointe of Leominster have been recent visitors at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Daley.
F. May of East Boston was the guest on Sunday of Mr. and Mrs. James May.