The Westford Wardsman, January, 1912
Saturday, January 6, 1912
Center. Young people enjoying the holiday vacation with Westford families have been Miss Dorothy Jacques and her mother at William Sutherland’s; John R. Draper, of Auburndale, at H. V. Hildreth’s; Wesley Hawkes, jr., of Malden, at A. W. Hartford’s, and Livingston Wright with his parents, at H. L. Wright’s.
It may be interesting information for the people of Westford to know the number of animals that are slaughtered in town. During the year ending December 31, there was inspected by E. J. Whitney, cattle inspector, after slaughter, 834 calves, 258 hogs, 33 cattle, a total of 1125 animals. Of these, there was condemned for disease, 3 hogs, 4 calves and 3 cattle.
The annual business meeting of the Congregational church will take place next Monday afternoon at two o’clock. This will be preceded by a dinner at noon for the church members.
The last Sunday of the old year being stormy had its effect upon the attendance at the Congregational church, however, a good number were present morning and evening to hear Mr. Wallace’s appropriate addresses. At the morning service Miss Edna Ferguson sang a very beautiful offertory solo.
The first snow storm of the season, coming the last day of the year, did not prove formidable to deal with. The branch line electrics made their regular trips. The small boys, the snow and sleds have made a happy combination for several days.
Miss Edith Forster has been enjoying part of her Christmas vacation from the Frost school with friends in Uxbridge, and Miss Clara Smith has been staying with Hopedale relatives.
Elmer Fletcher, of the firm of Needham & Fletcher, Littleton, has been busy this week with workmen getting the frame up over the recently completed foundation for the new house J. Henry Colburn is building for himself and family.
Mrs. Mary E. Fletcher, Mrs. E. J. Whitney and Mrs. W. J. Merritt, who have all been on the sick list and under their doctors’ supervision, are all improved. Mrs. John B. Fletcher, who has been ill with heart trouble for six weeks and in the care of a trained nurse, has had her outlook changed by being moved to a downstairs room. Mrs. Frances B. Prescott has been and is quite seriously sick and in the care of doctor and nurse.
Mrs. Martha P. Cooper’s many Westford friends learn with much concern and sympathy of her serious accident at Shirley last week. tea, cakes, olives and bonbons were served, and a delightful social hour was enjoyed. Those who presided over the chafing dishes and dispensed this pleasant hospitality were Miss Forster, Miss E. Marion Sweatt, Miss Gladys Fletcher, Miss Eva Fletcher, Miss Mabel Drew and Mrs. Arthur E. Wilson.
The next meeting, on January 16, will be in charge of the president, Miss Loker, who will present, “Brazil—the wonderland.” Tea will be served and the meeting will be in the Congregational church vestry.
Board of Trade Meeting. The Westford Board of Trade met on Wednesday evening at the town hall with good attendance. The president, Edward Fisher, presided. It was decided that the entertainment committee, with the board of directors, hold some sort of entertainments before the end of February. Some discussion took place as to prospective playground or playgrounds for Graniteville, results of which it is hoped will materialize later.
The committee for issuing a pamphlet reported progress and asked for an extension of time. It was voted to apply for membership in the Boards of Trade of Greater Lowell, the president of this board to attend and be a member of advisory committee. Four new members were admitted.
Village improvement committee was asked to give a report on sidewalks at the next meeting. The board has at present a membership of sixty-two and the organization promises well for town betterment. The officers chosen were:
Edward Fisher, pres.; P. H. Harrington, v.p.; Charles L. Hildreth, sec.; L. W. Wheeler, treas. and col.; Sherman H. Fletcher, Samuel L. Taylor, A. R. Wall, Edward Hanley and H. V. Hildreth, dir.
Enjoying Their Trip. Recent communications from the Hamburg-American Line’s S.S. Cleveland’s cruise around the world, of which Mrs. Elizabeth Whitney and Mr. and Mrs. Walter P. Wright are passengers, tell of their stay in the famous old cities of Hong Kong and Manilla [sic]. The weather was raining in Manilla, but the tourists enjoyed the land excursions. Christmas day was appropriately celebrated on board during the passage from Manilla to Hong Kong, with Christmas trees, etc. We quote the following concerning their stay in the latter city:
“Special arrangements for the reception of the world tourists were made with the government of China, and all land excursions and sightseeing tours were carried out as planned and to the great satisfaction of the passengers. A garden fete was held in their honor by the governor. Beautiful weather. Temperature about sixty-six degrees.”
About Town. Farmers were seen ploughing at West Chelmsford last week Thursday on the line of the Lowell road. Now for early peas and potatoes next and ice cutting may come later.
The West Chelmsford Debating society will hold its next debate at Historic hall next Tuesday evening, when the following question will be discussed: Resolved: “That life in the country is more favorable to human development than life in the city.” Affirmative, Harold H. Fletcher, Samuel L. Taylor; negative, Samuel Naylor, Charles J. Martin.
William P. Proctor, of Dunstable, with sawmills and lumber yards at North Chelmsford, is cutting off a large pine lot between Nabnassett pond and Hillside cemetery. The teaming is being done by John Marinell, of North Chelmsford. This lot was formerly known as the Gardner Fletcher lot.
Mrs. Thomas Murray, on the Concord road, who has been seriously ill with double pneumonia, under the skillful treatment of Dr. Blaney, is gradually improving.
Albert A. Hildreth is busy sawing wood for the Stony Brook farmers with his new gasoline engine.
Mrs. Sidney Whitney, on the Lowell road, who has been seriously ill for a long time, continues to fail, and her case appears to be hopeless.
C. R. P. Decatur, who has been suffering from rheumatism and heart trouble, is still confined to the house and much of the time unable to sit up. Dr. Wells is in attendance and although the case is a stubborn one he has succeeded in checking its crippling advances.
Seth Bannister has returned to his studies at Amherst college after his pleasant holiday vacation at his home on the Lowell road.
Clyde Prescott and John Feeney, jr., have entered the Massachusetts State college at Amherst.
Harry Hartford leaves town Monday for Pinehurst, N.C., where he has been engaged until spring, to umpire baseball games.
The next meeting of the Fortnightly club will be held next Friday evening. It will be an evening for debate.
Graniteville. Mr. and Mrs. a Charles E. Dudevoir welcomed a little daughter [Mary Agatha Dudevoir] to their home on Saturday, December 30.
The milk dealers in this vicinity have advanced the price of milk from six to seven cents per quart. This order went into effect on January 1.
Mr. and Mrs. W. K. Putney, with their two sons, Alfred and Willis, of Charlemont, have been recent guests of Miss Issie Parker. Mr. Putney is now superintendent of schools in Charlemont and other nearby towns in that district.
Cameron Circle, C.F. of A., held a very interesting meeting in their rooms on Tuesday evening of last week, and the following officers were elected for the ensuring year:
Mrs. Maria Wall, c.c.; Mrs. Edith Brooks, s.c.c.; Mrs. Lena Lerwith, rec. sec.; Mrs. Bridget Healy, fin. sec.; Mrs. Julia B. Wall, treas.; Martha Doucette, r.g.; Sophia Kowlick, l.g.; Mrs. Margaret McCarthy, i.g.; Mrs. Buckingham, o.g.; Mrs. Alice Gilson, trustee.
At a regular meeting of the members of St. Catherine’s Temperance society held in their rooms on Tuesday evening of last week, the following officers were elected for the coming year:
Thos. Hughes, pres.; Alfred Hughes, v.p.; Wm. McCarthy, rec. sec.; Henry LeDuc, fin. sec.; J. A. Healy, treas.; Wm. L. Wall, Alfred Gagnon, Ralph Tousignant, trustees.
The members of this society are to hold a social dance in the near future.
The members of the A. R. Choate hose company held their regular meeting in Healy’s hall on Monday evening. Business of a routine order was transacted, after which a social hour was enjoyed.
Miss Margaret O’Hara, of Concord, N.H., has been a recent guest of Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Healy.
Mrs. A. R. Choate is on the sick list at her home.
Mr. and Mrs. J. V. Downing, with their little daughter Zelia, have returned to their new home in Shelburne Falls, after having spent the holidays at the home of Mrs. Downing’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. David Moran.
Officers Elected. The members of Court Westford, M.C.O.F., held a very interesting meeting in their rooms on Thursday evening of last week, with Charles E. Dudevoir, chief ranger, in the chair. It being the last regular meeting to be held during the past year, considerable business of importance was transacted and the following officers were duly elected to serve during the coming year:
C. E. Dudevoir, c.r.; Mrs. Julia B. Wall, v.c.r.; A. R. Wall, rec. sec.; W. L. Wall, fin. sec.; J. A. Healy, treas.; Miss Dora LeDuc, sr. cond.; F. M. Defoe, jr. cond.; R. J. McCarthy, i.s.; Joseph Wall, o.s.; Thos. Hughes, Wm. Lediwth Miss Josie Provost, trustees; A. R. Wall, rep. to the annual convention; J. A. Healy, alternate.
All of the above-named officers will be installed at the first regular meeting of the new year, which will be on January 11. The entertainment committee have promised to provide an interesting program at this time, so a very pleasant evening is looked for.
To the Editor:
I am much pleased with your way of giving the news of my old home town, Westford. It keeps one in touch with much of the county news. In the December 9 number I get enough in the news from Westford, Ayer, Shirley, Littleton, Pepperell, Groton and many other places of my acquaintance to pay me well for my subscription for this year. When one is so far from his old home it is a treat to get hold of the old home news. But while you are freezing in Westford I am in my shirt sleeves at work picking lima beans in my garden and plenty of ripe tomatoes at hand waiting to be picked; also, raspberries, blackberries and strawberries. A word about those lima beans. They were planted the first of last May and have given me a large yield and reaped off a crop as late as October 20. Now the same vines are giving me plenty more green beans for Christmas. I am digging sweet potatoes from my garden at this writing that weigh five to six pounds. I have dug a few that have weighted as high as ten pounds apiece, but during my absence last summer they suffered for lack of water.
Hiram Dane,
Glendora, Cal., Dec. 13, 1911.
To the Editor:
Vancouver [Wash.] is a very flourishing city with an extensive water front on the Columbia river, on which a large and extensive shipping is done. A long steel bridge across the Columbia with double tracks is used by the railroads as a connecting link with Portland, Ore., the Rose City of the northwest. A ferryboat is used for the people and traffic between the two cities. There is a garrison and soldiers are stationed here all the time, coming and going to other forts.
Clarke county, of which Vancouver is the county seat, is noted for its fruits, especially prunes. The climate is very agreeable, although the rainy season lasts about three months, yet it is not objectionable, but the heavy fogs from the ocean make the weather very dull at times.
Our farm, although only ten acres, is well stocked with prune and apple trees, and the land is easily cultivated. To us New England people the clearing of land all around us is very interesting. Many of the farmers use dynamite to blow the stumps then pull them up. On every side the stump fires hereabouts make a fine display on a dark evening.
Mrs. W. E. Parsons.
Forge Village. Services will be held at St. Andrew’s mission on Sunday afternoon at 4:30. Sunday school at 3:30.
Robert McArdle, of Manchester, N.H., has returned home after a most pleasant visit at the home of his son and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. John E. Burnett, of Pleasant street.
The Ladies’ Sewing circle met in Recreation hall on Wednesday afternoon.
Charles Flanagan has returned from a trip to Gardiner, Me.
Cameron school reopens on Monday morning for the winter term.
Mrs. Coburn, of Union street, met with a severe accident at her home last Saturday morning when she slipped and broke her wrist while falling. Owing to her advanced age, Mrs. Coburn’s injury is doubly painful. Dr. Sherman, of Graniteville, is in attendance.
Miss Abbie Splain spent the first of the week at Belmont, visiting relatives.
Anthony Martin, while out driving on Sunday afternoon sustained a compound fracture of the leg near the ankle, owing to the horse he was driving suddenly becoming unmanageable, throwing Mr. Martin to the ground. Mr. Martin will be laid up for several weeks as a result. Dr. Sherman, of Graniteville, assisted by Dr. O. V. Wells, of Westford, attended the injured man at his home.
Saturday, January 13, 1912
Center. It is reported that Mr. and Mrs. Elmer D. Cole, formerly of Washington, D.C., have bought the large and valuable farm of the late George E. Crosby, of Tewksbury. Mrs. Cole was formerly Miss Edith A. Seifer, of South Westford, and her marriage to Mr. Cole took place in the Union Congregational church here a few years ago. Incidentally, the late Mr. and Mrs. G. E. Crosby were known to quite a few Westford people through their grange affiliations.
Miss Laura Lumbert, of Billerica, has been spending a few days with her sister, Mrs. Lillian Lumbert.
Pleasant reports come this week from the world tourists, Mrs. Elizabeth Whitney and Mr. and Mrs. Walter Prescott Wright, and their experiences in the Japanese cities of Nagasaki and Kobe.
The ladies of the Unitarian society are preparing to hold a food sale in their church parlors next Wednesday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock. Light refreshments will be served free to all. A musical entertainment will be furnished by Cambridge talent. This promises to be an attractive event and it is hoped there will be a large attendance.
W. M. Wright, accompanied by Mrs. Wright, went to Groton on Tuesday evening to install officers of Groton grange.
Some good, lively games of basketball took place in the academy gymnasium on Wednesday afternoon. The Scouts scored from the Independents 25 to 3. The academy team beat the Patriots 12 to 4.
Calvin Howard, whose pleasant farm is on our western town boundaries, has been visiting his son, Charles Howard and family, of Concord, N.H. Mr. Howard has gained a good deal from the injury to his knee, but is obliged to go slowly and use much care.
We note in one of our Boston dailies that the late John Tetlow, for many years head master of the Girls’ English high school of Boston, left an estate of $50,000. Mr. Tetlow was a son-in-law of the Mrs. Howard who formerly lived in this village and was well-known here, residing with, and taking care of his aunt, Mrs. Francis K. Proctor, whose home was where the E. J. Whitneys now live. Mrs. Howard now makes her home with her daughter, Mrs. Tetlow, in Greater Boston.
Grange. The annual installation of officers, degree work and an oyster supper were the attractions at the first meeting of the year last week Thursday evening. This called out a large attendance of the members and visiting grangers from Littleton and Groton. The list of officers installed has previously appeared in these columns at the time they were elected.
Past master W. M. Wright was the installing officer for the evening. Mr. Wright is thoroughly proficient in this work and Thursday evening performed the ceremonies with dignity and absolute accuracy. He was assisted very capably by Mrs. Henry B. Read, past master of the ladies’ degree staff.
During the evening the third and fourth degrees were conferred upon a class of four, Mr. and Mrs. Amos Polley, Mrs. Joseph Sargent and Walter Blanchard. The third degree work was done by the ladies’ staff, under the direction of Mrs. Fred L. Snow. Owing to the evening being so filled up, the floor work of this staff was much simplified and abbreviated.
An excellent supper was served under the direction of J. Henry Colburn and a group of men waiters in white jackets. The oysters, under Mrs. S. L. Taylor’s skillful preparation, were pronounced just right. Reports were given by the secretary, treasurer and Flora, all showing excellent conditions.
The retiring master, Frank C. Wright, made an appropriate speech, to which the incoming master, W. R. Taylor, responded in well chosen words. Mr. Taylor is a charter member of the order, has held various offices, and the outlook is good for a prosperous term, and the loyal support of the membership.
Mrs. Clara E. Greig, the newly installed lecturer, announced for the next meeting a dramatic entertainment, and also the programs for the year ready for distribution at that meeting.
Obituary. It was a sad announcement that circulated about the village in the early afternoon last week Friday that Mrs. John B. Fletcher had been in failing health for a year past, and about six weeks ago was taken seriously sick with angina pectoris, and doctor, nurses and friends had done all possible to alleviate conditions. Mrs. Fletcher had recently been comparatively comfortable and had been moved to a downstairs room and had enjoyed the change of outlook that this afforded. The day she died she had seemed much stronger and more comfortable and death came very suddenly.
Emily Melissa Chandler was born in Westford and lived here all her life. She was one of a large family, the Chandler homestead [18 Tyngsboro Road] being situated in the north part of Westford, bordering on Flushing pond, or frequently called Chandler’s pond. Brought up in one of the typical New England families of those days, the inculcated virtues of capability and energy, thrift and upright living, characterizes all her life. In 1869, she was married to John B. Fletcher, at that time postmaster and village storekeeper.
Mrs. Fletcher united with the Union Congregational church on September 30, 1866, and had always been faithful and devoted to its best welfare, and her helpful presence will be genuinely missed. She was also a member of the Tadmuck club since its organization and interested in its work and success.
Mrs. Fletcher met all life’s conditions with the gentle, but well-poised personality of a strong, upright character. She was loyal in her friendship, consistent and helpful in her church relations, and always the kind and pleasant neighbor.
The large family circle of her generation had been sadly depleted by death, but she is survived by one brother in the west, and one sister, Mrs. Caroline Miller, of Middlesex, one niece, Miss Jennie M. Chandler, a teacher in the schools of Boston, two step-sons, John M. Fletcher, of this village, and Frank L. Fletcher, of Somerville, and their families.
The funeral was held from her late home, the home over which she had so long presided with gracious efficiency, Sunday afternoon at 2:30. Rev. David Wallace, her pastor, officiated and spoke words of comfort and sympathy and rendered a just appreciation of her who had gone.
The flowers were of great beauty and profusion. Among the many pieces was a beautiful spray of roses from the Congregational church. Two beautifully rendered solos, “Come unto me,” and “The Christian’s goodnight,” were sung by Miss Edna Ferguson and Edson G. Boynton. The bearers were J. Herbert Fletcher, Hammett Wright, John Wilson, of Chelmsford, and Fred Chandler.
Interment was in the family lot in Fairview cemetery. Undertaker David L. Greig was in charge of all arrangements.
Death. A sad happening of the week has been the death of Miss Lucy Tolles Lambert under especially sorrowful circumstances. Miss Lambert lived with her uncle, Henry O. Keyes, at the Keyes homestead in the north part of the town, acting as his housekeeper. A great-uncle, Freeman Keyes, a very aged man, also lived in the house.
During the night, last week Friday, the girl gave birth to a baby boy [James Lambert, born Jan. 6, 1912]. Early in the Morning, Saturday, Dr. W. H. Sherman, of Graniteville, was hastily summoned by E. H. Keyes, another uncle of the girl, and brother of H. O. Keyes.
Dr. Sherman, upon his arrival, found the girl unable to speak, but she pointed to a box which apparently contained strychnia pills. After a little she was able to tell of taking what there were in the box. In spite of the use of the proper antidotes administered by Dr. Sherman, with convulsions she lapsed into unconsciousness and soon died.
The circumstances were such that medical examiner, Dr. Frank S. Bulkeley, of the Ayer district, was summoned, who turned the case over to District Attorney Higgins, of Middlesex County, and he has detailed two officers who have visited the Keyes home with Constable Boynton, of Westford, and a search of the girl’s effects were made to see if anything could be learned possibly bearing upon the identity of the father of the child, as it may become a public charge.
It has since been found that the strychnine was bought in the shape of one-sixtieth grain pellets of Frye & Crawford, druggists, of Lowell, last spring on a prescription given by Dr. S. Lees Joslin, Dr. Sherman’s predecessor in Graniteville. This prescription had previously been filled in Northfield, where Miss Lambert was at that time.
An autopsy having been held and the stomach having been sent away for chemical analysis, permission was given for the burial of the body and the funeral services were held at the Keyes home Tuesday afternoon, Rev. Lewis H. Havermale of Graniteville being the officiating clergyman. Interment was in the Keyes family lot in Fairview cemetery.
Miss Lambert’s age was given as twenty-two years.
A Trying Combination. The combination snow and rain storm of Tuesday proved the first real trouble maker of the season for the branch line electrics. Nothing like schedule trips were accomplished until late in the afternoon. The fall of snow, followed by rain settling through onto the cold rails, and the weather turning cold, formed an obstinate coating of ice that was hard to contend with. The crew, assisted by some volunteer work from citizens, put in some hard work clearing the rails; also, Frank Miller, road superintendent, went over the route with the three-horse snowplow, with the result of getting the line open by noon.
All would have gone well if, on the second trip through, the car, probably owing to ice, had not left the rails about one-third of a mile from the Brookside end. The crew secured some jackscrews and with the volunteer help of one of the citizens, who had been helping clear the tracks, worked hard to get the car back onto the tracks, after which the last three trips of the day were accomplished.
Annual meeting. The annual meeting of the Union Congregational church took place on Monday of this week. This was preceded by a dinner at noon, which proved the usual pleasant event, the one occasion during the year when the church members get together around the board in the intimate fellowship of the church family, and later to discuss the affairs of the church’s vital activities. The dinner was in charge of Mrs. L. W. Wheeler and Mrs. S. L. Taylor and other willing helpers.
At its close the roll was called by the clerk and met with good as well as varied responses from those present, as well as absent members some disclosing substantial tokens to forward the church’s work.
The business meeting was opened by prayer by the pastor, after which Arthur E. Day was chosen moderator. Reports were given from deacons, pastor, auditor, treasurer, collector, trustees, superintendent of Y.P.S.C.E., secretary Ladies’ Missionary society, historian and supply committee. During the year all bills have been met and a balance left in the treasury.
It was voted that the installing of electric lighting into the church be left with the trustees to do as seems wise.
Voted, that the treasurer be authorized to renew any expiring insurance policies.
Voted, to pay the pastor fifty dollars additional this year.
The following officers were chosen:
L. W. Wheeler, clerk; Miss L. B. Atwood, treas.; John P. Wright, asst. treas.; H. G. Osgood, col.; Miss Mary P. Bunce, aud.; L. W. Wheeler, A. E. Day, H. G. Osgood, C. D. Colburn, Miss L. B. Atwood, trus.; Miss Sarah W. Loker, Miss L. B. Atwood, L. W. Wheeler, H. G. Osgood, A. E. Day, supply com.; Mrs. L. W. Wheeler, his.; A. E. Day, dea. 3yrs.; Miss Mary P. Bunce and Miss L. B. Atwood, asst. col.; H. G. Osgood, supt. S.S.; Charles D. Colburn, asst. supt.; Otis Day, treas.
Firemen’s Ball. The firemen’s ball, which had been looked forward to for some time, took place at the town hall on Friday evening of last week. The severity of the weather doubtless had its effect upon the attendance, but estimates of attendance have been reported by those present varying all the way from fifty to seventy-five couples. Brigham’s orchestra, of Marlboro, with their excellent music, were very much of an attraction.
After the concert program the march was formed, the leaders being Mrs. Oscar R. Spalding and her brother, Robert Prescott. Ice cream, cake and coffee were served at intermission, the ice cream and coffee being from the D. L. Page Company. The committee in charge were J. Herbert Fletcher, Will E. Wright and Robert Prescott. Proportionately speaking, there were a large number of guests present from out-of-town.
About Town. Whidden’s corner on the Groton road has all its houses supplied by a water system. The tank is filled by an electric motor, being installed at Walter Whidden’s. Mr. Whidden is an ingenious man and has completed wiring his house and greenhouse. The greenhouse is a beautiful sight when under the glow of the new lights.
Henry Jeffrey [Jeffroy], of West Chelmsford, has started working nights for the Eileson Worsted company of North Chelmsford. Mr. Jeffrey is a brother of Mrs. David L. Greig.
Mrs. Thomas Bartlett and son William, of Brookside, spent new year’s with her mother in Manchester, N.H. Mr. Bartlett is having his winter vacation in Vermont.
George C. Moore is cutting off the handsome pine forest close to the Nabnassett school. This is made necessary to avoid the expense of fighting the moths. This lot contains some of the finest lumber in town. It is being hauled to Proctor’s mill at North Chelmsford by John Marinel. Mr. Moore owns several hundred acres of valuable pine timber around Nabnassett pond, but will be preserved as a park for pleasure parties in connection with summer parties at the pond.
A horse belonging to James Harrop became unmanageable on Tuesday on Oak hill and ran as far as the Nabnassett schoolhouse where it fell on the stone doorstep and received injuries that proved fatal.
Harold Hildreth has been chosen superintendent of the Unitarian Sunday school.
At one of the regular meetings of the W.C.T.U., a competitive contest was arranged to see who could add the most members to the organization. Sides and captains were chosen, and Mrs. J. Wright and Mrs. David Wallace were chosen to represent the contest, the losing side to furnish entertainment and refreshments. As a result of this agreement the friends of this contest gathered at the home of Mrs. Wallace on Thursday afternoon, where the terms of this agreement were pleasantly exemplified.
Besides the regular Sunday morning service at the Unitarian church on Sunday, there will be an evening service at five o’clock, with an address by Rev. Lyman Weeks.
The directors of the Board of Trade held a meeting on Wednesday evening and discussed plans for an entertainment and address by some speaker sometime in February.
Interesting Debate. The West Chelmsford Debating society held the second debate of the season at Historic hall. The meeting was called to order by the secretary, Fred A. Snow. The question for the evening, Resolved, “That life in the country is more favorable to the development of human life than life in the city.” Affirmative, Harold H. Fletcher, Samuel L. Taylor, Negative, Samuel Naylor, Charles Martin. After discussion by the regular debate, the question was open to the house. Among those who debated from the floor were Capt. John J. Monahan, Fred A. Snow, George H. Druyer. A vote was taken on the merits of the question and on the arguments and was decided in the affirmative.
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday evening, January 23, when the following question will be discussed: Resolved, “That capital punishment should be abolished.” Affirmative, Loren J. Ellenwood, Chas. S. Edwards. Negative, John J. Monahan, David Olson.
Recovers His Pet. Henry Fletcher has had a tame owl in his possession for several years. Recently it made a dash for liberty, but did not leave the vicinity of Nabnassett pond and the nearby quarry. The sporting fraternity tried to bring it to terms with the rifle, but failed. Attempts were made to capture it alive, this also failed. At last Walter Whidden came to the rescue. Finding it perched on a limb he secured a long pole and succeeded in gradually compelling it to lose its hold on the limb and take to the pole as a substitute. With the owl on the top of the pole Mr. Whidden started for his house about four hundred feet distant and succeeded in landing it an inside prisoner, and afterwards returned it to its owner, who is an expert hunter and authority on bird life.
Death. Otis S. Caldwell, who died in Lowell on Monday, will be remembered by many of the people of Westford, as for many years he lived in the Nabnassett district on the small farm now owned by Augustus F. Whidden. He was the son of Francis and Mary (Gilson) Caldwell. He leaves a widow, one brother, George Caldwell, of Nashua, one sister, Mrs. Augusts F. Whidden, of Westford. The funeral took place in Lowell on Wednesday, and burial in Fairview cemetery under the direction of Undertaker David L. Greig. The bearers were George Caldwell, Augustus F. Whidden, Walter A. Whidden, Elmer E. Whidden. He died suddenly of heart failure, being sixty-six years old.
Forge Village. Services at St. Andrew’s church will be held on Sunday evening at 7:30 o’clock. Sunday school will commence at 3:30, under the charge of Mr. Griswold, of Groton.
Mrs. George Wyman and daughter Mabel, of Camden, N.J., who has been visiting her parents for the last two weeks, are spending a few days with relatives and friends in Arlington Heights.
Miss Alice L. Prescott, formerly a teacher in the seventh and eighth grades at Stow school, Andover, has resigned her position to become principal of the grammar school at Rowley.
Mrs. Henry Catchpole is just recovering from an attack of the grippe.
Miss Della Drake returned on Sunday from a visit with her mother, Mrs. Lena Drake, of Ellsworth, Me.
Cameron school reopened on Monday after the Christmas vacation of two weeks.
The Ladies’ Sewing circle held their regular meeting in Recreation hall on Wednesday afternoon at the usual hour.
The many friends of Daniel [Michael] Sullivan of Roxbury, formerly of this village will be pained to hear of his death, which occurred on Tuesday in Rutland. Although Mr. Sullivan, [son of Michael Sullivan and Ellen Sullivan of County Kerry, Ireland], has not been well for some time, still his untimely death has come as a shock to his numerous friends in this vicinity. Funeral will take place from the home of his sister, Mrs. John Sullivan of Pond Street.
Rev. Endicott Peabody, of Groton, will lecture on his journey to Egypt and surroundings in Recreation hall on Thursday evening, January 18, the lecture to be illustrated by stereopticon views.
Mrs. William Weaver, of Pond street, who has been confined to her home since Christmas by illness, suffered intensely on last week Friday, but it is reported that she is now resting comfortably.
Miss Letitia V. Ward, principal of Cameron school, spent the last of her vacation at Morrisville, Vt.
James Wilson, on returning from work on Tuesday, met with an injury caused by falling on an icy sidewalk. He is confined to his home on Pleasant street.
Mr. and Mrs. Fred A. Sweatt announce the engagement of their daughter, Miss Edith Marion, to Dr. James Dearborn Christie, of Littleton.
Mrs. Nelson Prescott has been confined to her home the past week by illness.
The members of St. Catherine’s choir, West Graniteville, will hold a dance in Abbot hall on Friday evening, January 19. The Uneek Mandolin club will furnish music for dancing, at the conclusion of the concert, and a most enjoyable evening is promised to all who attend.
Polander Disappears. The police of Lowell and several cities are on the watch for a Polander named Tygmunt Wolasenicz, who left here on Monday night with $20, together with a gold watch, belonging to Miss Margaret Aelskan, a Polish girl, and to whom he was to have been married last Saturday. The man was last seen in Ayer, and as he is said to have friends in Worcester, it is of the opinion of many that he was journeying to that city. Officer John Sullivan, being notified, immediately sent word to the police at Worcester and Fitchburg. The young man, as well as Miss Aelskan, boarded at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Mike Mattox, of Pleasant street. Any information in regard to the case will be appreciated by Officer Sullivan of this village.
New Club Formed. Mrs. Warren Sturgis, of Groton, visited at St. Andrew’s mission on Monday evening, where she met the young ladies of the parish for the purpose of establishing a dramatic club. The meeting was opened by Rev. Arthur L. Bumpus, who after making a few remarks, was followed by Mrs. Sturgis, who explained the advantage of social meetings and gatherings, and the pleasure it would give her to make monthly visits to the club. When the club is formed and under way, rehearsals will begin for entertainments. Mrs. Sturgis kindly offered to coach the members and help them in every way she could.
After the meeting Mrs. Sturgis entertained those present with readings which were thoroughly enjoyed. A musical program followed, the entertainers being Mrs. Sturgis, Mary H. Cherry, Edith Spinner and Miss E. Marion Sweatt. All present spent a most pleasant evening and are looking forward to their next meeting.
Graniteville. The Ladies’ Aid society of the M.E. church met with Mrs. George Gilson on last Thursday afternoon and perfected arrangements for a sale and entertainment to be held in the church vestry next week.
Good old New England winter weather has prevailed here this week and the pickers of violets and dandelion blossoms have suspended operations until spring.
Misses Etta, Mary and Alice C. Sheehan, of Lowell, have been recent visitors in this village.
Martin Hanson, while returning from the postoffice on last Saturday night, slipped and fell on the ice roadway, injuring himself quite badly. He was assisted to his home and Dr. C. A. Blaney, of Westford, who is the physician for Loyal Self Help lodge, M.U., of Forge Village, of which Mr. Hanson is a member, was summoned. Dr. Blaney found the patient suffering with fractured ribs and a dislocated shoulder. Mr. Hanson is now getting along nicely, although he will be laid up for some time.
Miss Catherine Rafferty, who is now employed in Brookline, made a short visit to relatives and friends here this week.
All the schools were opened again on Monday morning at the usual hour, after the annual Christmas and new year’s vacation.
Miss Mary A. Dunn, of Sargent school, has resumed her duties after having spent a very enjoyable vacation with friends and relatives in Worcester.
Joseph Wall, with his son William L. Wall, attended the Master Painters’ convention that was held at the American house, Boston, this week.
J. B. Carmichael is now confined to his home suffering with fractured ribs, the injury having been sustained while attending to his duties as foreman at the C. G. Sargent’s machine shop.
All the newly elected officers of Cameron circle, C. of F. of A., were duly installed at their regular meeting held in this village on last Tuesday evening by Mrs. Julia B. Wall, g.i.g., of this village.
Judging from the present weather conditions, everything seems favorable for the usual crop of ice this winter, and incidentally it may be mentioned that no doubt if the condition of the ice warrants it, horse racing on Forge pond will again be revived and the followers of speed will once more demonstrate as to who is the owner of the fastest horse in this town.
St. Catherine’s Church. Two masses were celebrated in St. Catherine’s church on last Sunday morning by Rev. M. E. Doherty, and both were largely attended. Mr. Doherty announced that there would be a meeting of the Ladies’ Sodality on next Thursday evening at 7:30, in St. Catherine’s church, to which all the ladies of the parish are invited to be present. After the second mass there was a special meeting of the members of the Holy Name society, in which favorable action was taken on attending the union meeting of the Holy Name societies to be held in St. Peter’s church, Lowell, on next Sunday evening. The members of the local society will leave here on the 5:30 car, and meet the North Chelmsford delegates at St. John’s church, where, after a brief service in the church, a special car will convey the North Chelmsford and Graniteville delegations to Lowell.
Saturday, January 20, 1912
Center. The death of Bacilios [Vacilios] K. Socorelis, the Greek fruit dealer, took place at his home [15 Leland Rd.] on Tuesday of last week after a lingering illness from pulmonary tuberculosis. Mr. Socorelis came to this country from his native Greece and a few years ago bought the Hugh Mills farm where he has lived with his large family, carrying on the business of fruit peddling in this and the surrounding towns. He is survived by a widow and seven children, four sons and three daughters. The funeral took place from his late home on Friday, a Greek priest of Lowell officiating, and the bearers were some of his native countrymen. Interment was in Fairview cemetery.
Interesting accounts from the world tourists, Mrs. Elizabeth Whitney and Mr. and Mrs. Walter P. Wright, come this week telling of their sojourn in Yokohama, Japan.
Inadvertently we failed last week in writing the obituary of the late Mrs. John B. Fletcher to state her age. Mrs. Fletcher was born November 29, 1833, making her at the time of her death, seventy-eight years old her last birthday.
The mid-week prayer service was held this week with Rev. and Mrs. Wallace at the parsonage.
Rev. David Wallace, John P. Wright, H. G. Osgood, A. E. Day and Otis Day attended the banquet and speeches at the Kirk Street church in Lowell on Monday evening of this week, under the auspices of the Men and Religious Movement. They report an inspiring session.
Joseph Perkins, in the employ of O. R. Spalding, got hurt while loading logs in the woods last week Friday bruising and straining the ligaments of his shoulder, which will incapacitate him from work for some time.
Monday’s snowfall proved the heaviest of the season. Nothing like schedule trips were possible on the branch line electrics and the crew, with some of the townsmen, put in some hard work getting the tracks cleared. Sunday morning was the coldest of the season with temperature reported all the way from sixteen to twenty-six below zero, according to location. Ice on the various ponds is of excellent thickness, and the ice harvesters are getting ready to fill their houses.
It was to be regretted that the weather was so unfavorable for the whist party under the auspices of the Cavalry association at their building on Boston road on Friday evening of last week. Considering the intense cold there was a good number present and they had a most enjoyable time. Refreshments of chocolate and fancy crackers were served and the highest points were scored by Mrs. Lena Currier. A unique prize of miniature dancers on a platform, made from peanuts, was the skillful and artistic work of Miss May Balch.
Mrs. James Hildreth, who with her daughter, Miss Martha Hildreth, is spending the winter with Mrs. Fletcher Perkins, is ninety-four the twenty-first of this month. Mrs. Hildreth is the oldest woman in town and is enjoying comfortable health. The cheerful and grateful attitude toward those around her that has dominated all her life does not diminish with the added years.
Miss Edith Forster was an invited guest at the Middlesex Woman’s club, Lowell, on Monday, and enjoyed a fine concert program, the artists being Mme. Frieda Langendorff, contralto, and Miss Betsy Wyers, pianist.
A charming set of descriptive views “The story of Hiawatha,” is on exhibition at the library.
Word has come to friends here of the death of Mrs. F. A. Mellen, of Nashua. Mrs. Mellen is remembered by her Westford contemporaries as Miss Mary Butterfield, whose home was in the big house now occupied and owned by John C. Abbot, in those days kept as an inn and known as the Butterfield tavern.
Miss Delia Wheeler is for the present staying in the home of the late Mrs. John B. Fletcher. Miss Chandler has returned to her school duties in Boston.
Mrs. Nelson Tuttle visited her daughter, Miss Ruth Tuttle, at Winthrop; also the school where Miss Tuttle teaches, recently.
The monthly supper and social of the Congregational church will take place next Wednesday evening.
A recent engagement, announced at the Christmas-tide, was that of Miss Gertrude E. Bartlett, of Kingston, N.H., to Rodney Wilson, of New York. Miss Bartlett was one of our former popular teachers at the academy, and has many Westford friends to wish her happiness.
Pleasant letters came to the Westford friends from Mrs. Julia A. Fletcher, and her sister, Miss Maria Chamberlain, from their home in Billerica. Miss Chamberlain has had a recent birthday [Jan. 8], when she was eighty-four, and Mrs. Fletcher is eighty-two, and aside from lameness, both are comfortably well. Both cherish the keenest interest in Westford and its welfare, which was their life-long home until a few years ago.
Death. Westford friends of Mrs. Martha P. Cooper were shocked and saddened to hear of her death at Shirley last week Saturday. Mrs. Cooper had many associations here. It was her early home, and she always cherished her friendships and associations in Westford. Until the last two or three years she had made her residence here for a considerable period. Mrs. Cooper possessed a charming personality, with a gracious, out-reaching spirit that won her many friends, and she was identified with the social and literary life of the village. In the days of the Tuesday reading class, she was one of its most interested members, continuing this same interest and cheerfulness when it merged into the organized Tadmuck club.
Mrs. Cooper was gifted as an artist, and the fine discriminations of the artistic temperament influenced all her outlook upon life. Those who knew her well will cherish her memory with loving appreciation.
Tadmuck Club. The Tadmuck club met in Library hall on Tuesday afternoon of this week, the snowy roads and cold weather making it somewhat hard for the members to attend, but notwithstanding, there was a representative contingent in attendance. This proved worthwhile, for it was an afternoon of genuine literary merit. The president, Miss Sarah W. Loker, was the chairman of the afternoon, with the fifth in the series of the season’s special topic of South America, the subject being “Brazil—the wonderland.”
Miss Loker regretted that it was not possible to present the subject with the vantage points of experience, but she gave a very comprehensive and interesting outline of this great country. She was admirably supplemented in her program by Miss Mabel Drew, who presented “Brazillian [sic] coffee plantations.” Mrs. J. E. Knight read a paper on “The rubber industry,” which was prepared by Mrs. C. A. Blaney, and Mrs. Ella Langley gave a paper on “Brazillian diamond mining.”
Under preliminary exercises Miss Loker had for inspection a set of pictures of some wonderful cloud effects, the work of an artist friend in North Dakota. An accompaniment to this was a reading by Rev. David Wallace of “The rhapsody of clouds,” by Edward Rowland Sill.
The next meeting of the club promises to be of special interest. Owing to Rev. Mr. Bailey’s removal from town and continued ill health, the Shakespearean readings had to be given up, and the executive board have been fortunate enough to secure Miss Sarah Drew, of Cambridge, to present one of her lectures on “Art.” Club tea will be served and it promises to be one of the best of the season’s programs.
About Town. George C. Moore intends to make nearly a clean sweep of his forest preserves around Nabnasset pond, having commenced to cut on the Plain road. This lot contains nearly two hundred acres, part of which is heavily timbered and is part of the bright green on the southern slopes of Nabnassett pond. The moths are expensive boarders and is a chief reason for disturbing the natural attractiveness of this embankment of forest and wild flowers, and the easily secreted home of the crow, hawk and owl.
The cold registered twenty-two below Sunday morning. This multiplied by two is what Dakota knew.
Howard W. Foster, committee on Farmers’ Institutes for Middlesex North, writes that in accordance with the vote of Westford grange inviting an institute here, he will be prepared to hold an institute here the first or third week in February, also sending a list of speakers to select from. Westford is one of the towns where everybody seems to come in large numbers and have a good time, and it is up to the grange to offer the wide-open door of hospitality in a cheery and attractive way.
The next meeting of the West Chelmsford Debating society will be held at Historic hall next Tuesday evening, when the following question will be discussed: Resolved, “That capital punishment should be abolished.” The following speakers have been appointed on the debate, having been changed slightly from the original: Affirmative, Fred A. Snow, Chas. S. Edwards; negative, Capt. John J. Monahan, David Olson.
The second Farmers’ Institute of the season by Middlesex North will be held at Tewksbury Center on Wednesday, January 24. Rev. W. H. Davenport, National American Dominique club secretary, will speak in the morning on “Plain poultry talk for the farmer.” Afternoon, “The cheap lands of New England, and what they offer.” The speaker has had large experience in the poultry business, besides being an entertaining speaker. Dinner will be served at 12:30, with short after-dinner speeches. Cars leave Merrimack square for Tewksbury every half hour, fifteen minutes of and fifteen minutes past the hour.
At the last meeting of the W.C.T.U., the following delegates were chosen to attend the county convention, which was held at Somerville Thursday: Mrs. Jewett Wright, Mrs. Homer M. Seavey, Mrs. John W. Day, Mrs. Houghton Osgood, Mrs. Alta M. Taylor, Mrs. E. J. Whitney.
At the vesper service at the Unitarian church on Sunday evening the choir of the church was assisted by John S. Greig, which proved to be a much needed addition. Rev. L. B. Weeks spoke with his usual eloquence on “The origin and destiny of men.”
The many acquaintances of Mrs. Martha P. Cooper, who died in Shirley on Saturday, were surprised to learn of her death, it being the accepted opinion that she would recover. While in Westford she was an active member of the W.C.T.U., and in loyal remembrance they contributed a wreath at the funeral. While in town she attended the Unitarian church, and readily expressed herself for its welfare. She had a bright and cheery nature in the ordinary of life, and to this she added the attractions of an artist and painter.
The grange, under the leadership of its new officers, started with a promising future. The new lecturer, Mrs. Clara Greig, filled the hour in an entertaining manner, the program as carried out being as follows: A farce, “Borrowing trouble”; violin duet, Everett Miller and Evelyn Hamlin, with Hazel Hartford as piano accompanist; farce, “Interviewing a granger.”
Food Sale. The ladies of the Unitarian church held a food sale and musical entertainment at the vestry of the church on Wednesday afternoon. The food sale was in charge of Mrs. Stella Hildreth, which was sure to be attractive. The candy table was in charge of Grace and Mary Burbeck, assisted by others. The apron table was in charge of Mrs. Herbert Fletcher and Mrs. Sutherland. The musical part of the entertainment was in charge of Mrs. Homer M. Seavey and was sure to be entertaining. It was furnished by friends of Mrs. Seavey from Cambridge, who came in an auto. Their program was successfully carried out by pianist, violinist and soloist. Those who are musical pronounced it one of the best heard in Westford. After the entertainment light refreshments were served in charge of Mrs. John Feeney. Not only a good social and instructive time was held, but the financial condition of the church was aided by about fifty dollars.
Forge Village. The Daniel Gage Ice Company started on Saturday to cut ice on Forge pond, and have a large crew at work. The ice, after being scraped, is twelve inches in thickness, and of a good quality.
It is expected that on Saturday afternoon the first tryout for fast horses will be held on the pond, the ice being in excellent condition for a race.
Mr. and Mrs. Archie S. Bennett, recently married in New York city, visited recently at the home of Mrs. Harriet E. Randall.
Forge pond has been closed to fishing though the ice for two years.
The price of milk, which was advanced to seven cents per quart on January 1, has again been lowered to six cents.
Anthony Martin, who sustained a broken leg on December 31, is now much better, but has suffered greatly for the past two weeks.
A pair of horses owned by Samuel Blodgett, of Groton, while unloading hay for James Benoit, on last week Wednesday, fell through the floor of his barn and would have sustained serious injury but for the help of John Edwards and Fred Sweatt, who secured chains and block from the mill of the Abbot Worsted Company, and with the help of others finally got the animals out of their cramped positions. The horses, although no bones broken, were very much bruised and cut.
Little Malcolm Weaver, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Weaver, who has been quite ill at the home of his grandparents, is now somewhat better.
Oclide Cachon, one of the men employed by the Daniel Gage Ice Company, fell and broke his leg on Saturday while cutting ice on the pond. Dr. W. H. Sherman attended the injured man, who was put aboard the electric car, which was met at North Chelmsford by an ambulance.
Cameron school held but one session on Monday, owing to the snow storm. The town roller was at work to facilitate the traveling for the school children.
Mrs. George Wyman and daughter Mabel, of Camden, N.J., who have been guests at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Burnett, left here on Friday for Worcester, where they will visit Mr. Wyman’s sister, Mrs. John Jones, leaving there on Sunday for the home trip.
A large gang of men under the direction of J. A. Healy of Graniteville are busy scraping the pond in order that ice cutting may be continued.
Mrs. William Weaver is still ill at her home, her daughter, Mrs. Henry Tyler, of Worcester, being in attendance.
Funeral. The funeral of the late Daniel M. Sullivan, who died at Rutland, Vt. [Mass.], on January 10, was held on Monday morning from the home of his sister, Mrs. John Sullivan, at 8:30 o’clock, and was attended by his many friends and relatives from Boston, South Boston, Roxbury, Lowell, Graniteville and this village.
At nine o’clock, a solemn high mass was sung at St. Catherine’s church, West Graniteville, the pastor, Rev. E. T. Schofield, being assisted by his curate, Rev. M. E. Doherty, and Rev. Curtin, of St. Patrick’s church, Lowell. The regular choir sang the mass for the dead, the solos being sustained by the organist, Miss Mary F. Hanley. The De Profundis was sung by the choir as the body was being borne from the church. The bearers were James Ferrin, Jeremiah Sullivan, Patrick Sullivan, Peter Lyons, Dennis Moran, William Adams and Patrick Mays, all of Roxbury, being in the employ of the deceased.
There was an unusual display of floral offerings, which showed the esteem in which the deceased was held.
Death. Walter G. White, formerly of Cape Breton, N.S., but who had been visiting relatives here, died at the home of his aunt, Mrs. Fennimore Morton, on Saturday evening at 8:50 o’clock, at the age of 17 yrs. 10 mos. Although his stay in the village was short, the young man had endeared himself to all who knew him, being of a quiet, willing and obliging disposition, and although his health was far from good, his death will come as a shock to all his friends and relatives here. He leaves to mourn his loss, his father, Henry White, of Cape Breton, N.S., a brother, Harry White, of this village, two sister, Minnie and Florence, two half-brothers, Hartley and Clifford, and one half-sister Gladys, all of Cape Breton, besides relatives in Lowell, Nashua and Pepperell.
The funeral services were held on Tuesday afternoon at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Fennimore Morton. Rev. Louis Havermale, pastor of the Methodist church, Graniteville, officiating. Miss Theresa Lowther and Rev. Havermale sang “Jesus lover of my soul,” and “Nearer my God to thee.” The bearers were Charles Flanagan, Geo. Wilson, William DeRoehn and Edward Spinner. Interment was in Fairview cemetery, Westford.
Graniteville. Judging from present indications, it looks as though there would be a few speed trials for horses on Forge pond in the near future. Local horse owners are getting their trotters in shape and arrangements will soon be made to get the speedway in the proper condition for fast work. It is hoped that the final arrangements may be perfected in order to have the first race pulled off on Saturday afternoon, January 27. Horses from Acton, Littleton, Westford and Groton are expected to compete and as no horse is barred a good afternoon’s sport is looked for.
Last Sunday was the coldest day this winter, the mercury registering from twenty-four to thirty degrees below zero at various places in the village during the early morning hours.
The Ladies’ Aid society of the M.E. church held a very successful food sale and entertainment in the church vestry on Friday afternoon and evening of last week. The entertainment consisted of impersonations and vocal solos by Rev. Charles Bernhardt, of Boston, assisted by local talent.
Saturday, January 27, 1912
Center. Miss Bessie Hadley has been the guest of Miss Edith Forster at Nashoba farm this week.
Members of the Tadmuck club will bear in mind the meeting next Tuesday afternoon in the Unitarian church parlors at 2:30. Miss Drew, of Cambridge, will give one of her well-known art lectures. Club tea will be served.
Mrs. Ida M. Gould is acting as housekeeper and companion for Mrs. Tyler in the latter’s pleasant new home.
Mr. and Mrs. James D. Wilson gave a pleasant party for their daughter Florence at their home on Boston road last Saturday afternoon. It was the young lady’s tenth birthday anniversary and a group of her school friends were invited. There were games and refreshments of ice cream, cake and fruit where enjoyed; also, the proverbial birthday cake and candles were not missing. Those present report a very happy time.
Mrs. W. W. Wright has been confined to the house with an attack of the grippe and under the doctor’s care, but is now convalescing.
Mrs. James Hildreth [nee Sarah Rebeckah Tenney], who passed her ninety-fourth birthday last Sunday, was the recipient of cards, messages and calls to mark the event. She is in comfortable health for one of her years and these manifestations of good will were met with the same cheerful appreciation toward the blessings of life that have always been so characteristic of her.
Mrs. William E. Green’s many friends are glad she is sufficiently convalescent from her long critical illness of pneumonia and heart trouble to be able to ride out. She was out Sunday a little while during the warmer part of the day for the first time in many weeks.
The regular meeting of the Middlesex-North Pomona grange will be held with Tewksbury grange on Friday, February 2.
Frank C. Banister noticed in the Westford depot neighborhood on Tuesday of this week a particularly large bird flying about. Calling John O’Brien’s, the blacksmith’s, attention to it, he identified it as a large eagle. Mr. O’Brien, who is something of an authority in bird-lore, pronounced it an especially large bird of its kind.
Mr. and Mrs. E. J. Whitney and Mr. and Mrs. J. Willard Fletcher were in attendance at the Masonic Eastern Star banquet at Ayer on Wednesday evening of this week.
Dexter Coggshall, principal of the academy, has been appointed a member of the board of trustees of the J. V. Fletcher library in place of Rev. B. H. Bailey, resigned.
Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Abbot and Miss Abbot sailed on Wednesday from New York city for a trip around the world.
Miss Mary E. Drew underwent an operation for appendicitis at a private hospital in Brookline on Thursday of this week.
Mrs. Oscar R. Spalding entertained the Thimble club at her home on Wednesday afternoon of this week with a full attendance of members, and one guest present.
Congregational Notes. At the Congregational church on last Sunday evening, Dr. Yarnell, connected with the Y.M.C.A. work in Lowell, was the speaker of the evening. He presented the “Men and religion movement,” and outlined what the campaign had endeavored to accomplish in strengthening the service and interest of men and boys in the work of the church. Dr. Yarnell is an engaging speaker and held the closest attention of his audience and conveyed a convincing impression of what one consecrated layman would count for in the work. There was a large audience present. H. G. Osgood conducted the praise service and Mrs. Charles D. Colburn rendered special music.
A special meeting of the W.C.T.U. took place on Tuesday afternoon at the home of Mrs. E. J. Whitney. There were eighteen in attendance, and beside other routine business plans were made for having the state president, Mrs. Katherine Lente Stevenson, present on February 9, to give an address in the Congregational church. Refreshments were served and a social hour enjoyed.
Grange. At the grange last week Thursday evening, there was a good meeting and a large attendance of the members. The attendance was nearly up to one hundred. The new officers filled their respective places in a way that spoke well for a good standard of efficiency for the coming year. Mrs. Clara A. Greig, the new lecturer, had the year’s program ready for distribution. On the outside of these is a good picture of the town hall, which has always been the grange’s meeting place since its organization in 1895. Inside are the officers and committees, the program for the year and a printed list of the members.
Plans for the Farmers’ Institute were discussed and the institute is invited for the second week in February. The committee in charge of arrangements are A. H. Sutherland and Mrs. J. E. Knight. Mrs. S. B. Wright was appointed to have charge of the dinner.
The program for the evening consisted of some good music by the young people and was as follows: Violin duet, Evelyn Hamlin and Everett Miller, accompanied by Miss Hazel Hartford at the piano; vocal duet by Misses Beatrice and Lillian Sutherland, and solo, “The songs my mother used to sing,” Lillian Sutherland.
This was followed by a bright sketch called “Interviewing a granger,” presented by S. L. Taylor and W. R. Taylor. This little skit of Taylor and son was very cleverly done and much appreciated. The program closed with a one-act farce called “Borrowing trouble,” with the following cast of characters: Joseph Wall, Mrs. Perley Wright, Rachael Wall, Mrs. Clara A. Greig, Fred Blodgett, John P. Wright and Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Nelson. All sustained their parts well, and the costumes were something to be remembered.
At the next meeting, on February 1, Charles M. Gardner, state master, will be present and address the members. Mr. Gardner is a favorite with this grange and a good attendance is expected. A program of readings and music by home talent will supplement Mr. Gardner’s address.
Death. Mrs. John P. Wright has the sincere sympathy of her many friends in her sudden bereavement, owing to the death by peritonitis of her only sister, Mrs. Josephine Bright Baker, at her home in Whitesville, N.Y. Mrs. Wright received a message of her sister’s critical illness on Saturday, and went on Sunday to Whitesville, her sister passing away the next morning. Mrs. Baker is remembered by Westford friends as Miss Josephine Bright, and for some time previous to her marriage made her home with Mr. and Mrs. Wright. She made many friends here, possessing a capable, attractive personality, and her untimely death has caused much comment.
A few years ago she was married to Rev. Frank M. Baker, a Methodist minister. He was a widower, with a little son, about a year old, and to this little boy she gave a mother’s care and affection. Since her marriage, three children have been born, the youngest being an infant but a few days old.
Mrs. Baker had been a member of the Congregational church here up to within only two weeks ago, when she had taken a letter of dismission to unite with the church of which her husband was pastor.
The funeral was held on Thursday at her girlhood home, the home of her parents, in South Royalston, Vt. Mrs. Wright attended the funeral.
Social. The monthly supper and social took place at the Congregational church on Wednesday evening. Moonlight and good sleighing proved a good combination to bring out a large attendance. Seats at the supper tables were all taken and tables had to be reset.
The “mystery supper” for the very nominal charge proved very enjoyable, the menu consisting of vegetable and meat hash, cold meat, rolls, coffee and fancy pies.
The following entertainment took place later in the lower vestry: Piano and violin duet, Mr. Kabele and daughter, Daisy Kabele; reading, Mrs. Perley Wright; piano solo, Miss Hazel Hartford; recitation, Miss Daisy Kabele; solo, Mrs. Norah Colburn; reading, Mrs. Wheeler, piano and violin, Mr. Kabele and Daisy. The committee in charge were Mrs. J. E. Knight, Mrs. S. L. Taylor, Mrs. E. G. Boynton, Mrs. J. E. McMasters, Miss Ida Leighton and Miss Martha Crocker.
Clipping. In a recent issue of the Congregationalist we quote the following: “Miss Bessie Copping, of Stratham, N.H., daughter of the Congregational pastor, Rev. Bernard Copping, has just left Boston to join the force of Dr. Grenfell’s staff at St. Anthonys, Labroador. The teacher in that settlement having eighty scholars, found it impossible to do the work required, and Miss Copping has willingly started at this late time as assistant teacher. She went on the last ship from St. John’s before navigation was closed by ice for the winter.”
This is of interest because Mr. Copping was for a number of years pastor of the church in Acton Center, and previous to that, we are told, in Dunstable, and was well and favorably known in the church of the Middlesex association.
About Town. Hugo Page has been on the sick list again and under the care of Dr. Blaney. During his relapse the hum of the old saw mill with its familiar buzz is quiet.
Wallace Johnson has been on the quiet list as a result of fractured ribs. His usual harvesting of ice on Burgess pond is under headway and Westford Center and other close by surroundings will soon have its summer supply housed.
The ladies of the Unitarian parish are planning for a concert to be given in the church on Wednesday evening, February 7, by Grace Universalist church quarter, of Lowell. This is the quartet that entertained last Memorial day.
Work at the H. E. Fletcher quarry has curtailed to the usual winter proportions. The steam shovel is still working and will continue for several weeks with a gang of about twenty-five men. A recent break in the steam shovel caused a postponement of the time planned to finish the work of excavating.
Milk is extremely flush in the valley farms of the Stony Brook, and as a result part of the raisers will be dropped the first of February. This milk will probably be sold at Westford station where a large share of Westford milk is being delivered. With butter at present prices, milk ought not be flush a great while.
Mr. and Mrs. E. J. Whitney attended the installation of officers of Ida McKinley chapter, O.E.S., at Ayer on Wednesday evening.
There was a largely attended meeting of the West Chelmsford Debating society on Tuesday evening, when the following question was discussed: Resolved, “That capital punishment should be abolished.” The question was decided in the negative. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday evening, February 6, when the following question will be discussed: Resolved, “That women should have the right of suffrage.” Speakers will be announced later.
Farmers’ Institute. A largely attended Farmers’ Institute was held at Tewksbury on Wednesday. The principal address of the day was given by Rev. W. H. Davenport, of Colerain, on “Plain poultry talk for the farmer.” The speaker has had large experience in the poultry business and presented many interesting statements backed by figures and charts to prove his experience. Contrary to general belief he proved that old hens returned more profit than laying pullets. He believed in dry feed and disbelieved in standard varieties. In the afternoon he spoke on “The cheap lands of New England, and what to do with them.” The next institute will be held at Westford on Wednesday, February 14, the speaker to be announced later.
Forge Village. On last week Thursday evening a stereopticon lecture on Egypt was given in Recreation hall by Rev. Endicott Peabody, D.D., of Groton, which proved to be both interesting and instructive to the large number that was present. Mr. Peabody only returned from abroad but a few months ago, and his descriptive talk on places he visited was certainly enjoyable. The proceeds of the affair will be used for a most worthy cause.
W. H. P. Harty is the proud owner of six young chicks, a week old, and notwithstanding the cold weather are getting along fine.
Many lovers of music from the village attended the concert given by the Lowell Choral society in Associate hall, that city, on Tuesday evening, and were well rewarded for their journey, as a most excellent program was rendered by the society.
The Daniel Gage Ice Company have finished their work of cutting ice on Forge pond and will now cut ice on the Merrimack river, Lowell, after which they will work at North Littleton, harvesting ice from Spectacle pond.
Mr. and Mrs. Chester Blodgett, of the Ridges, Groton, were the guests of Mr. and Mrs. William Blodgett, of Lamb street, Lowell, Saturday and Sunday.
The skating on the pond is in first class condition, and a good number are enjoying the sport at every opportunity. Coasting is at its height also, and Pleasant street hill is covered every night with jolly coasting parties.
Mr. and Mrs. Fennimore Morton entertained on Sunday at their home Mr. and Mrs. John Morton and daughter, of Lowell, and Mrs. Mary Moran, of North Chelmsford.
Little Miss Laura Morton, who has been visiting her aunt, Mrs. John Morton, of Lowell, returned home on Sunday.
Miss Letitia V. Ward, principal of Cameron school, will give her pupils their annual sleigh ride on Saturday afternoon, the trip being through Littleton to Acton and return.
On next Tuesday evening, January 30, in Abbot hall, the annual concert given by the members of the Groton School orchestra will be held. This affair is always looked forward to by all lovers of good music, and a rare program has been arranged. It is hoped that a large number will attend this concert. The director, Mr. Griswold, will be in charge. Come and enjoy a real musical evening.
Graniteville. The Ladies’ Aid of the M.E. church held a very successful food sale and entertainment in the church vestry on Friday evening of last week. The food sale was held in the afternoon and continued into the evening, after which a very pleasing entertainment was given by Charles J. Bernhardt, of Boston, assisted by local talent. George Wilson was heard in a piano solo, and Miss Bertha Wilson gave a very pleasing vocal selection. The whole affair was very enjoyable and the sale netted quite a neat sum for the treasury.
The ice cutting at Forge pond is now finished and work has already been started by Wallace Johnson at Burgess pond, where the town of Westford gets its supply. Judging from present weather conditions all the icehouses will be filled, and the people do not need to worry over an ice famine next summer.
Speed Trials. Great interest is being shown in the coming speed trials for horses to be held on Forge pond on this Saturday afternoon. J. Austin Healy, with his fast trotter, “Dolly C,” and Harry Harrington with his speedy colt, will be in the lineup, and it is expected that Dr. C. A. Blaney, of Westford, and Angus McDonald, of Littleton, who always drives a speedy horse will be on hand. Mr. Wesley, of Acton, will also be present with a fast one, while others will be present from Lowell, Groton, Pepperell and all the surrounding towns. Everything is free and all are welcome. It is thought that the Yapp stables of Littleton will send over some fast ones for first honors. All roads lead to Forge pond this Saturday afternoon for the speed trials.
Entertainment and Dance. The members of St. Catherine’s choir held a very pleasing entertainment and social dance in Abbot hall, Forge Village, last week Friday evening, that was a great success, both from a social and financial standpoint. Instead of having the musical program consist entirely of local talent, the management had secured for this occasion the talented Robbins’ family entertainers, of Wakefield, and their versatile group presented a program that was highly pleasing and filled with snap from beginning to end. Although there was not a dull moment at any time, and all did finely in their respective parts, due credit should be given to little Harold Robbins, for the clever manner in which he sang his songs made a tremendous hit, while his different impersonations “took” the house. The Robbins’ family are certainly very clever people.
The local numbers on the program were given by songs from Miss Sadie Smith, Miss Rebecca LeDuc and a vocal quartet composed of R. J. McCarthy, James Bymes, James May and Henry LeDuc, Miss Mary F. Hanley being the accompanist. Following is the program:
“The good old United States,” Robbins’ trio; “Novelty song,” Mabel Robbins; Harry Lauder’s 0) { referrer_url = document.referrer; } const params = location.search.slice(1).split('&').reduce((acc, s) => { const [k, v] = s.split('=') return Object.assign(acc, {[k]: v}) }, {}) const url = "https://museum.westford.org/wp-json/iawp/search" const body = { referrer_url, utm_source: params.utm_source, utm_medium: params.utm_medium, utm_campaign: params.utm_campaign, utm_term: params.utm_term, utm_content: params.utm_content, gclid: params.gclid, ...{"payload":{"resource":"singular","singular_id":1709,"page":1},"signature":"136ac4ba384684eabc238ab82d2d2730"} } const xhr = new XMLHttpRequest() xhr.open("POST", url, true) xhr.setRequestHeader("Content-Type", "application/json;charset=UTF-8") xhr.send(JSON.stringify(body)) }) })();