The Westford Wardsman, January, 1913
Saturday, January 4, 1913
About Town. Miss Sarah Richardson, at her old home on the Lowell road, Brookside, is seriously ill with pneumonia. Dr. Wells and two trained nurses are in attendance, which means much towards recovery, but ninety-four years is a resistant offset against the best trained skill that has to be reckoned with in the balance account of chances for recovery.
Our old hale, hearty John Greig, of Main street, observed the seventy-fifth anniversary of his birth on last Sunday. He is still young in the reminiscences of life and lighter labors of farm life.
George O’Brien, the blacksmith at Westford station, while shoeing horses on Monday morning, was kicked by a horse on the arm and shoulder. The shop, which is small for a rush sharpening flurry, which the recent rain and snow combined to promote, was crowded with horses. With the horses thus crowded one horse attempted to pay off an old jealous mark and landed a right swing on the arm of O’Brien. The blow was sufficient to turn the key on the shop door and O’Brien was carried to his home in Parkerville. Dr. Blaney was called and bandaged it with recuperative ingredients. At present it seems to be knitting.
Hon. Herbert E. Fletcher and Mrs. Fletcher leave next week for a trip to Panama. They will accompany Col. and Mrs. Benton of Boston. A Masonic lodge will be established at Panama. Col. and Mrs. Benton will continue on to South America, but Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher will return home.
Luanna Decatur has been home from her teaching at Salem Normal school w hile the old year and the new are in review.
Miss Ella Wright from Cleveland, Ohio, is at the Fletcher farm on the Lowell road, owing to the serious illness of her aunt, Miss Richardson.
Board of Trade Meeting. The annual meeting of the Westford Board of Trade will be held on Wednesday evening, January 8, at Troop F Cavalry building on the Boston road. The first business will be the election of officers for the year, and then a discussion of the question of evening schools at Graniteville. The usual supper will follow this discussion, then the real laugh time of the evening will have its innings, when Prof. Hansell, of North Easton, will sing, whistle, impersonate and turn various sleight-of-hand “now you think you see an amusing reality, but it is only an amusing illusion.” If you want to get yourself and friends charged with a real, live-wire laugh you will be on the spot with spot cash while Prof. Hansell puts the laugh all over you.
By vote of the Board of Trade, all members can invite all men folks not members of the board to attend. In plain, every-day language, each member can invite a friend, but he cannot be a suffragette.
Lecture. The Massachusetts Horticultural society have arranged for a course of eight free lectures to be given in Horticultural hall, Boston, this winter. The first in the course will be given on Saturday, January 4, by Prof. George Albert Drew, of Greenwich, Conn., on the subject, “Problems of the commercial fruit grower.” Prof. Drew is a native of Westford, and graduate of the old historic Westford academy, and proprietor of the well-known Read farm located on Main street and Stony Brook road. At present Prof. Drew has charge of a large estate and farm in Greenwich, Conn. He recently gave a lecture at New Brunswick, N.J., before the State Horticultural society, which we have heard was a very fine address. He is an expert on fruit growing—his young orchards on Francis hill testify to that.
Christmas Observance. The Fortnightly club, which is always in unison with the life and environments of “The day we celebrate,” observed Christmas at the Wright schoolhouse on Wednesday evening. The thoughtful mind and the cultivated hand decorated the building with evergreen, laurel and red bells. This added reality and inspiration to the backward view of two thousand years.
The literary contribution to the day was sung by the audience, “Joy to the world”; reading, Mrs. Harry Ingalls; recitations, Anna Wyman and Lawrence Ingalls; readings, Fred Blodgett and Edwin Gould; song, William Gordon; reading, Mrs. William Wyman; song, Mrs. O. H. Nelson; reading Mrs. Edwin Gould.
Fred Blodgett, as Santa Claus, and Lawrence Ingalls, as a sort of sub-Santa Claus, took off the Christmas tree a cheery lot of remembrances for Fortnightly club members and other friends. Among the largely noticeable remembered was a piano to Fred Blodgett; drum to Horace Gould; violin, Charles Blodgett; clarinet, Edwin Gould.
The newly organized, newly equipped “Fortnightly club tingle jingle band” gave illustrations of their power as musicians “to soothe the savage breast and scare away the crows.” Fred Blodgett has been chosen band grand master ring leader. Fred Blodgett, William Wyman and Edwin Gould were chose the committee on entertainment for the next quarter. The next meeting will be held at the Wright schoolhouse on Friday evening, January 10.
Center. Allister MacDougall has the sympathy of his friends for the way he is being obliged to spend his holiday vacation, that of being in quarantine with a siege of diphtheria.
Mr. and Mrs. Arthur E. Day have welcomed a baby daughter [Marion G. Day] into their home, arriving on last Sunday [Dec. 29].
Miss Pauline Dole, of Kingston, has been a holiday guest in town at Mrs. Alma M. Richardson’s.
Mr. Coggeshall was the guest during his stay in town this week of Charles O. Prescott.
The last service of the old year at the Congregational church on last Sunday morning was well attended. Mr. Wallace preached from John 3:30, making clear how quickly a year goes by. It is short and yet an appreciable part of a life time. Only as we can take something from the old year for benefit into the new is there profit in resurveying. Miss Hazel Pond added much to the service by her sweet singing. In the evening many of the recitations and songs used at the Christmas eve gathering were repeated.
Miss Beatrice Sutherland is visiting relatives in Woburn and Somerville.
Mrs. Calvin Howard’s many friends in this village extend their sincere sympathy to her and the members of her family in her serious illness.
Misses Beatrice and Lillian Sutherland entertained their young friends by giving a whist party on last week Friday evening. Besides the village young people, guests were present from Kingston and Graniteville. Leon Hildreth carried the honors with the highest score.
Mrs. J. Herbert Fletcher gave a very pleasant whist party at her home on Monday evening to the younger people. The party was given in honor of Miss Dorothy Ayers, of Cambridge, who is a student at Wellesley, and has been Mrs. Fletcher’s house guest during the holiday vacation. There were five tables of whist and later in the evening refreshments of ice cream and cake were served.
Mrs. H. N. Jacques and daughter Dorothy have been among the holiday guests in town.
Miss Julia H. Fletcher is convalescent from her recent severe illness.
Herbert E. Fletcher was installed on Friday, December 27, as deputy grand master of the grand lodge of Masons of Massachusetts. The installation ceremonies took place in Corinthian hall, Masonic Temple, Boston.
Firemen’s Ball. The annual firemen’s ball, which took place on new year’s night, was very much of a success in every way. Fortunate weather conditions made it easily possible for the townspeople and others in the surrounding villages to be present. Poole’s orchestra, of Boston, furnished excellent music for the dancing, as well as a most enjoyable concert program preceding the dancing.
The march and circle was lead [sic] by Mrs. J. Herbert Fletcher and Edward M. Abbot, followed by about sixty couples. Ice cream and cake were served at intermission, for which the D. L. Page Co. catered. The members of the Edward M. Abbot hose company appeared in their red shirts, adding a picturesque note of color in addition to many pretty gowns worn by the ladies. Members of the company had charge of all arrangements and were efficiently vigilant in looking after all the details that go to make up the success of such an affair.
Tadmuck Club. It was pleasant to have former Principal Dexter E. Coggeshall the special guest and speaker of the afternoon at the Tadmuck club on Tuesday afternoon at Library hall. Mr. Coggeshall presented a straight forward and clear-headed solution of some phases of the “boy problem” along lines he has definite experience with. The first part of his address was an account of the work being done by the Newton Technical high school, where he is an instructor, and the somewhat radical changes in class work, where so-called misfit boys in the grammar school are provided for by practical and skillful instruction in such branches as electricity, woodworking, printing, steel and iron work and pattern making, this of course, being supplemented with regular class room work, and thereby turning out boys skilled in some work to earn a living, instead of leaving school, as many do, and drifting into whatever work offers and in many cases always remaining in the class of unskilled workmen.
The latter part of the address was an account of the Boy Scout movement, some of its aims and results, sketching its remarkable growth and principal workers. Mr. Coggeshall plainly stated that he believed the best work could be accomplished in the cities and large towns. The average country boy had many opportunities to fulfill his ancient heritage of native resourcefulness, or in “being prepared,” which is the slogan of the enterprise. He outlined results accomplished and many plans and possibilities of the work.
Preceding the address, it being the last meeting of the old year, Miss Loker reviewed briefly the work of the year, and the forward look into the new year was for the maintaining of the same high standard of work and ideals.
A committee was appointed to send new year’s greetings and flowers to the sick and shut-ins among the membership, of which there are several. Mrs. H. V. Hildreth, Miss Eva Fletcher, Miss Bunce and the secretary were delegated to accomplish this gracious service.
Forge Village. Sunday being the first Sunday of the month, services at St. Andrew’s mission will take place at 9:30 in the morning. Holy communion will be administered by the vicar, Rev. A. L. Bumpus. There will be no evening prayer. Following the services of last Sunday evening, a meeting of the parishioners was held. The meeting was called to order by Mr. Bumpus, and general business transactions followed. Among other topics taken up was that of establishing a branch of St. Mary’s Guild, of Ayer, which is doing such fine work for St. Andrew’s church. It was voted to organize such a society and Miles Collins was appointed president. Miss Theresa V. Lowther was chosen vice president and Fred Naylor as secretary.
George Wilson commences his duties as organist of the Graniteville M. E. Church on Sunday.
Mrs. Joseph Leclerc is still confined to her home with a severe cold.
Mrs. James Whigham is suffering from an attack of the grippe.
Mrs. Ernest [Polly] Longbottom and son William, of East Lexington, returned home on last week Friday night after spending the Christmas holidays at the home of her parents Mr. and Mrs. William Burnett.
Mr. and Mrs. Albert B. Jones, of Worcester, returned home on last Saturday after a visit of several days with relatives here.
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Flanagan have returned from their wedding journey and are now located in their new home in the square.
Mrs. M. A. Lowther and her granddaughter, Miss Mary Cherry, are confined to the home with very severe colds.
Henry Guerney and son, Wallace, of Lowell, spent Monday at their camp on the shores of Forge pond.
Mr. and Mrs. Fred A. Sweatt are entertaining their brother, Harry Lewis, of Littleton, N.H.
Mrs. John Baker, sr., who has been ill at the home of her son, is now on the road to recovery.
Cameron school is to have two storm porches, one at each entrance. These will be very much appreciated by both pupils and teachers during the winter months.
Many people attended the new year services at St. Catherine’s church in West Graniteville on Wednesday morning.
Mrs. James Sullivan is much improved after suffering with a very severe cold for the past few weeks.
Miss Alice L. Prescott, of Rowley, spent the holiday vacation with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Nelson Prescott.
The Ladies’ Sewing Circle held their regular meeting at Recreation hall on Thursday afternoon.
On Thursday evening, Miss Isabel Kearney, of Groton, met the young ladies of St. Andrew’s mission in Recreation hall. The young people are intending presenting the two-act comedy “The six kleptomaniacs,” in the near future. Rehearsals are progressing nicely and a rare treat is in store for all who take advantage of witnessing the performance. Miss Rose Peabody, daughter of Rev. Endicott Peabody, of Groton School, is coaching the young folks.
Cameron school will re-open on Monday morning after the Christmas vacation of two weeks.
Graniteville. At St. Catherine’s church on last Sunday morning two masses were celebrated by the pastor, Rev. Edmund T. Schofield. He also announced the mass that was celebrated in the church on new year’s day. On Wednesday evening there was services held in the church that consisted of benediction of the blessed sacrament, followed by a short sermon. The services were largely attended.
There is at present one case of scarlet fever in this village, the little son [probably Leo J. Soubosky] of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Subosky being the victim. Every precaution is being taken to prevent the disease from spreading.
The members of the democratic town committee met at the home of the chairman, Hon. Edward Fisher, in Westford, on Sunday night and after enjoying a bountiful repast with Mr. Fisher as host, assisted by his wife, the preliminary steps were taken towards making arrangements for a grand inauguration ball to be held in March. The hall has already been secured and the services of McEnnelly’s famous singing orchestra, W. J. Cook, manager, of Milford, has been secured to furnish the music. A meeting of the general committee will be held shortly for the purpose of forming plans for this event.
At the annual meeting and smoke talk of the Westford Board of Trade, to be held in Westford on January 8, the advisability of opening a night school in Graniteville [primarily to teach English to newly arrived Poles and Russians working in the mills] will be freely discussed. This is an urgent need and the Graniteville members should get busy at once and see if this matter, through the Board of Trade, cannot be brought about. If no final action is taken at that time, no doubt it will be possible to call a special meeting of the Board of Trade members, the meeting to be held in Graniteville. In the meantime, don’t forget the smoke talk.
The subject of the stereopticon lecture to be given in the vestry of the M.E. church on Sunday night will be “Pilgrim’s progress.” This famous old story will be illustrated with thirty-six beautifully colored slides. For intermission the beautiful old song, “The ninety and nine,”
As such she united with the Congregational church, Westford, seventy-five years ago, being the oldest member at the time of her death, and the oldest person in town but one. She is the last of those who united with the church at that time, and the last of the type of life so well nigh universal and interesting in the early life of the church. She never lost or abated interest in the church of her early choice and its requirements. She will long be remembered for her old-fashioned wisdom and her allegiance to an enlightened conscience.
The funeral took place from her home on Saturday afternoon, Rev. David Wallace, minister of the church of her choice, conducting the services. In tender devotion he reviewed her long and sturdy life and rugged personality. Appropriate selections were sung by the quartet, Mrs. Charles D. Colburn, Miss Grace Lambert [Lumbert], Houghton G. Osgood and Rev. David Wallace. The bearers were J. Willard Fletcher, Amos B. Polley, Elmer E. Whidden and Claude W. Johnson.
Burial was in Fairview cemetery, beside kindred of many generations. As near relatives she leaves a niece, Miss Ella Wright, of Cleveland, Ohio, and the only relative to follow her to the cemetery, and a nephew, Charles Walter Wright, of Lagrange, Ill.
Saturday, January 18, 1913
Center. Mrs. J. Herbert Fletcher is enjoying a week’s stay with friends in Boston and vicinity.
George Bennett, for a long time in the employ of O. R. Spalding, is ill at his home, having sustained a stroke of partial paralysis Monday.
Rev. David Wallace, Principal Roudenbush and L. W. Wheeler were among those present at the Lowell opera house last Monday evening to hear Capt. Amundsen lecture on his conquest of the South Pole.
Miss Autrice Flanders of this village and Mrs. Helen E. Fitton of Graniteville were guests present at the Tadmuck club Tuesday afternoon at Library hall.
Mrs. David Wallace went to West Hartford,, Vt., Tuesday for at least a week’s stay with her mother, who is sick. Mrs. Wallace will also be present at the marriage of a favorite cousin, Miss Gertrude Hazen. Miss Hazen has been a visitor at the parsonage here a number of times.
The body of the late George F. Millis was brought from Nashua, N.H., last week Thursday and the funeral was held at two o’clock at the Unitarian church. Relatives, neighbors and friends were in attendance and a delegation from Post 185, G.A.R. of Lowell, were present as well as Westford G.A.R. comrades. The chaplain of the Lowell veterans conducted the services and the bearers were also members from Lowell. There were numerous beautiful floral offerings. Interment was in Fairview cemetery.
J. Herbert Fletcher enjoyed a winter vacation of several days with the Farmington, N.H., relatives last week. Rabbit hunting was a primary attraction.
Alec Fisher continues to make improvements on his home place, keeping two carpenters busy during the mild, open weather. At present the barn is having its share of renovation with new clapboarding, doors, etc.
The large audience of members of the board of trade who were so pleasantly entertained by Fred Hanson of North Easton at their annual meeting at the Cavalry association building last week will regret to hear how sick he was for several days afterward. Mr. Hanson was not at all well that evening, having had a severe chill shortly before the entertainment, but he pluckily carried through his program, very few realizing how ill he was. He was obliged to remain at Mr. Gould’s for several days, the latter showing him every kindness. He was reported to have had threatened pneumonia, but the real trouble was probably a more permanent chest trouble. Pathetic that so skillful and versatile a man should be so afflicted.
Past master W. M. Wright of Westford grange went to Acton Tuesday evening to install the officers of Acton grange for the year. This is the third installation Mr. Wright has conducted this year, the others being at Littleton and at Ayer.
The Westford academy basketball team was pretty thoroughly defeated by the Ayer High school team at the high school gymnasium last Saturday afternoon with a score of 27 to 17. Both sides contested keenly for honors, but the Ayer team proved a strong one.
The new catalogue of telephone subscribers is out and has been mailed to those having telephones. If any have not received their catalogue promptly please notify Mrs. Isles at the central office and the matter will be remedied at once. Once again subscribers are kindly urged to correct their lists and to cultivate the habit of calling for parties wanted by number and not by name. This is a requirement from the main office in Lowell, required simply in the cause of ultimate good service.
Annual Meeting. The annual meeting of the Union Congregational church was held at the regular time prescribed in the bylaws, the second Monday in January, which in this case was January 13. Good winter weather and good interest made the gathering a successful one. Preceding the business meeting an excellent dinner was served at noon at which were present thirty-four members, six guests and three children. Grace was said by all rising and singing the doxology.
After dinner, the clerk, L. W. Wheeler, called the roll and was met with a good response by those present and messages and substantial tokens of money from absent members. Especially pleasant was a good letter of greetings from the Misses Atwood in Jacksonville, Fla., telling of the church life they were participating in there.
Necessarily the note of sadness crept into the good cheer for those missed who have passed on during the year. Those on the membership list who have died during the year are Mrs. Abby Garvin Wright, Miss Sarah Richardson, Mrs. Janet Agnew and Thomas E. Symmes.
The business meeting was called to order at two o’clock. After prayer by the pastor, Arthur E. Day was chosen moderator for the year. Reports of clerk, deacons, pastor, auditor, collector, treasurer, trustees, supt. of Y.P.S.C.E., supt. of S.S., secretary of Ladies’ Missionary society, secretary of Ladies’ aid and supply committee were given and accepted. The following officers were chosen for the ensuing year:
Miss L. B. Atwood, treas.; John P. Wright, asst. treas.; H. G. Osgood, supt. of S.S.; Chas. D. Colburn, asst. supt.; Miss Mary P. Bunce, auditor; H. G. Osgood, col.; L. W. Wheeler, clerk; trustees, L. W. Wheeler, Miss L. B. Atwood, A. E. Day, Chas. D. Colburn, H. G. Osgood; supply committee, Miss Sarah W. Loker, Miss L. B. Atwood, L. W. Wheeler, A. E. Day, H. G. Osgood; Otis W. Day, sec. and treas. S.S.
Voted that the treasurer be authorized to renew any insurance policies expiring during the year. A hearty rising vote of thanks was extended to Miss Grace Lumbert for her efficient services as organist during the absence of the regular organist, Miss May Atwood.
The trustees reported the minor repairs they had attended to during the year, but the important item is the installment of electric lights, which have as fully justified themselves. The cost of maintenance to date has fallen below estimated cost of maintenance. Repairs under consideration in the near future are redecorating of the vestries and new floor covering for the auditorium.
A much missed member at this annual session was Houghton G. Osgood serving on jury duty at Cambridge. Mr. Osgood sent written reports of his various offices.
Owing to deaths and removals from town the past year has had its discouragements, but there are hopeful phases of the church work which enable its workers to start the year with renewed faith and vigor. The treasurer’s report showed all bills paid and a balance in the treasury.
Tadmuck Club. At the meeting of the Tadmuck club in library hall on Tuesday afternoon the season’s general topic of “Holland” was the subject for the afternoon. Miss Ella F. Hildreth and Mrs. Herbert E. Fletcher were in charge of the afternoon. Owing to Mrs. Fletcher’s absence on a trip to Panama Miss Hildreth sustained the program alone. Miss A. Mabel Drew read anecdotes of the humorous side of the people of the Netherlands. Miss Hildreth read a carefully prepared paper telling of the conquest of the sea and the famous dykes of Holland and closed with some personal reminiscences of a visit to New Amsterdam during a European trip some years ago.
At the preliminary exercises Miss Loker read extracts from a letter from Mrs. Georgia Patten Stone, living in Illinois. This letter was written to her long-time friend, Miss Miranda Luce, and gave some account of club experiences where Mrs. Stone lived. Mrs. Stone spoke of receiving copies of the Wardsman each week and the enjoyment afforded of keeping in touch with the happenings of what was her girlhood home.
Gracious notes of appreciation were read from the shut-in ones, who received flowers on new year’s day.
The next meeting of the club, January 28, will be of especial interest when Mrs. Joseph R. Draper, formerly of Westford, will address the club on “The relation of club women to missionary enterprise.” Meeting at 2:30 in the Unitarian church parlors.
About Town. By request of parties interested, a bill has been introduced in the house of representatives by the correspondent of this paper [i.e., Samuel L. Taylor] to “regulate the setting of traps.” It would seem that traps have been set to catch the foxes that catch the hens, but instead they catch the hens, which leaves the foxes and the hens to play a game of “hide and seek,” and in the last round of this game the hen plays the game inside the fox. This bill seeks to have the game played fair and humanely. It would seem that dogs have been caught in traps and have remained there a week to starve and freeze to death. This bill compels those who set traps to visit them once in twenty-four hours, to have the name of the owner of the trap attached to it, to pay for all domestic animals caught there, and subject to a fine of fifty dollars for violation of the law. A similar bill has been introduced from the seacoast district.
At the annual meeting of the Unitarian society on last Saturday evening, Hon. Edward Fisher was chosen as moderator, Abiel J. Abbot, clerk; Charles O. Prescott, treas.; William H. Burbeck, col.; Abiel J. Abbot, Hon. Edward Fisher, Clara Fisher, parish committee.
The Ladies’ Sewing circle and Branch Alliance of the Unitarian church met last week Thursday with Mrs. George T. Day. Mrs. Homer M. Seavey read a paper stirring with inspiration on “Alliance loyalty—how and why.” This was followed by Mrs. W. E. Frost giving “Religious intelligence.” The Alliance now has forty members. The next meeting will be held the second Thursday in February.
George W. Whitney, who has been ill for a long time with rheumatism, seems not to be able to respond to skillful medical treatment and the hopes of his friends and relatives are a bit shaded.
The Fortnightly club will hold its next meeting at the Wright schoolhouse on Friday evening, January 24. An interesting discussion is being planned for. The subject and debaters are to be sprung as a surprise. Come you who have never been before and add to the surprises.
The West Chelmsford Debating society will hold its next meeting on Tuesday evening, January 21, at Historic hall, when the following question will be settled for the people of the United States: Resolved, “That equal justice to all demands the right of recall of the judges of the supreme and superior court.” The debaters will be Harold Fletcher, Charles Edwards, Charles and William Nelson, and by the law of affinity they will line up and lean up on the for and against of this question.
Peter Grosecup has been chosen as superintendent of Brookside mills, and Peter Pickup as assistant. All it seems to lack is Peter Wakeup to make business pickup.
George C. Moore is cutting the forest on the Lowell road near Brookside. It adds to the charm of the environment of Stony Brook and veils much rocky barrenness.
Death. Sidney W. [D.] Whitney, after several years of crippling illness, died at his recently new home at Brookside on Sunday afternoon at the age of sixty-three years. For several years he has been unable to do much muscular labor. Sunday he was stricken with an apoplectic shock, followed by pneumonia, and the end came sudden. During his long illness he appeared at all times to be blest with the power to be cheerful and hopeful, buoying himself up through many discouragements. He was a native of Westford and was educated in the public schools. He leaves besides his wife, Eliza Burnham, who has been an invalid for two years, two sons, William A. Whitney, who lives in Lowell, and Edmund B., who lives at Brookside; three brothers—Julian, of Westford; and Nathaniel and George, of Lowell; two sisters, Mrs. Ai Bicknell [Sarah F.], of Westford, and Mrs. John Taylor [Charlotte E.], of Lowell, and two grandchildren.
The funeral took place from his recent home on Wednesday afternoon. Rev. David Wallace conducted the services. A delegation of Oberlin lodge of Odd Fellows, of Lowell, were present and acted as bearers. Burial was in the old family lot in Fairview cemetery.
Graniteville. The members of Court Westford, M.C.O.F., held a very interesting meeting in their rooms on last week Thursday evening with Charles E. Dudevoir, chief ranger, in the chair. Business of importance was transacted and eight applications for membership received. The following are the newly-elected officers for 1913: R. J. McCarthy, c.r.; Joseph Wall, v.c.r.; J. A. Healy, treas.; William L. Wall, fin. sec.; Albert R. Wall, rec. sec.; Edward Riney, l.s.; delegate to annual convention, E. Dudevoir; Thomas Hughes, Josie Provost, William Ledwith, trustees.
Miss Laura Healy, who was recently operated upon for appendicitis at the Lowell General hospital, is now rapidly gaining strength. The operation was a success in every way, but Miss Healy will remain in the hospital for the next two weeks before she is moved to her home here.
On last Sunday morning in St. Catherine’s church, both masses were celebrated by the pastor, Rev. Edmund T. Schofield, who delivered a short but interesting sermon on the gospel of the day, followed by a few well chosen remarks concerning the welfare of the parish. The subject in hand dealt principally with the interest of catholic children who are likely to become public charges, and in order that the matter will receive the proper attention, Mr. Schofield, as pastor, will appoint in the near future a committee of five responsible and influential members of the parish to assist him in carrying out the noble work.
A daughter [Elizabeth A. Palmer] was born to Mr. and Mrs. Mark Palmer on Saturday, January 11.
An athletic club has recently been formed in this village and the young men in charge now have a well furnished room on Maple street, where meetings are held often, and where physical culture is one of the principal features.
The adjourned meeting of the Westford Board of Trade concerning the advisability of opening an evening school in Graniteville will be held here on Wednesday evening, January 22. The meeting will be public and as it is of vital importance to the people here, the directors of the Westford Board of Trade hope there will be a large attendance. At this time, no doubt, the matter of getting a suitable athletic field for Graniteville will probably be discussed.
The members of the Home Glee club that received such favorable comment on their successful concert in Forge Village recently, have been invited to sing at the “Old country store,” to be given by St. John’s Catholic club in North Chelmsford on the twenty-ninth. A double quartet from St. Catherine’s church choir will also sing in North Chelmsford January 30, the Catholic club entertainment being held two nights.
The members of Cameron circle, C.F. of A., held a well attended meeting in their rooms on Tuesday night. Business of importance was transacted and the following officers elected for the ensuing term: Maria J. Wall, c.c.; Martha Doucette, s.c.; Julia B. Wall, treas.; Bridget Healy, fin. sec.; Edith Brooks, rec. sec.; Mrs. Charles Benson, r.g.; Mrs. William Robinson, l.g.; Mrs. H. Hanson, i.g.; Minnie Ledwith, o.g.; Alice Gilson, Hannah Harrington, Elizabeth Harrington, trustees; Dr. W. H. Sherman, physician. The above officers were duly installed by the circle deputy, Mrs. Catherine Daley, and Julia B. Wall, g.i.g.
Interesting Meeting. The members of the Holy Name society held a well attended and interesting meeting in St. Catherine’s church on Friday evening of last week with the president, John F. Kavanaugh, presiding. Nine applications for membership were received. After the recital of the office the members were addressed by their spiritual director, Rev. Edward C. Mitchell, who gave a very interesting sermon on “Christian manhood.” His remarks were followed with the deepest interest by the members, and these sermons which he makes a feature at the Holy Name meetings will surely prove to be a power of good to the entire society. After the sermon benediction of the blessed sacrament was given, the service closing by all uniting in singing “Holy God, we praise thy name.” The regular choir was in attendance.
The members of the local society are now making active preparations to attend in a body the celebration of the feast of the holy name that will be held in the Immaculate Conception church, Lowell, on Sunday evening, January 19.
Forge Village. Miss Nellie [Ellen A.] Oldham is confined to her home with the measles.
Mrs. Albert B. Jones, of Worcester, returned on Sunday after caring for her sister, Mrs. James Whigham.
The people of the village extend their most sincere sympathy to the bereaved family of the late Philip S. Nichols, of Groton School, who met his death while coasting in Groton last week. Mr. Nichols had made many friends here during his term of teaching the foreigners in the evening school sessions held in Abbot hall, and his untimely death came as a severe shock to all.
Miss Isabel Kearney and Miss Rose Peabody, of Groton, who were to visit the young ladies of St. Andrew’s mission on Thursday evening, cancelled their engagement owing to the death of Mr. Nichols.
The young ladies of St. Andrew’s mission held their last rehearsal under the direction of Miss Isabel Kearney and Miss Rose Peabody, of Groton, on Thursday evening. The annual concert given by the members of the Groton School orchestra, together with a comedy in two acts, given by the young ladies of the parish, will be given in Abbot hall on Saturday evening, January 18, and will certainly be worth attending. The concert in itself is an evening of thorough enjoyment, and is well-known here by all lovers of good music. The play, “The six kleptomaniacs,” is a real comedy as far as the word goes, and is a good laugh from start to finish. The proceeds are to be used in installing electric lights in St. Andrew’s mission.
Bishop Lawrence will administer the sacrament of confirmation at St. Andrew’s church, Ayer, the last of March.
Miss Grace Lawrence and Alvin S. Bennett went to Reading on Sunday to attend the funeral of a relative, Freeman Marshall, whose death occurred last week.
Mr. and Mrs. Henry Catchpole entertained Thomas Kitchen, of Lowell, Saturday and Sunday.
Rev. Thomas L. Fisher, pastor of St. Mark’s Episcopal church, of Leominster, has invited the members of St. Andrew’s mission choir to attend services at his church on Sunday morning, January 26. Mr. Fisher was formerly pastor of St. Andrew’s.
Funeral. The funeral of the late Henry Storey was held at his home on Friday afternoon of last week at two o’clock, and was attended by many sorrowing friends and relatives. The services were conducted by Rev. David Wallace, of the Unitarian Church, Westford. Misses Theresa Lowther and Bertha Wilson sang the hymns, “O lamb of God,” and “Abide with me.” The bearers were George O. Jackson, Elmer E. Nutting, Fennemore Morton and George H. Sanborn. Interment was in Westlawn cemetery. The floral tributes were many and beautiful.
Among those who attended the funeral from out-of-town were the following: W. H. Storey, son of deceased, and Mrs. Storey, of Hudson; Mrs. George Turner, daughter of deceased, and Mr. Turner, of Chester; Mrs. Edward Warren, a sister, Worcester; Miss Edith Wentworth of Waltham; N. H. Daniels, Bedford; Mrs. C. H. Shurtleff, Lynn; Mrs. Flora Prescott, Hudson, all relatives of Mr. Storey.
Saturday, January 25, 1913
Center. J. Herbert Fletcher has had a telephone installed at his residence this last week—47-4.
The ivy-covered summer house which has been a familiar sight for so many years in the center of the grounds now owned by George E. Gould [7 Depot St.], has recently been moved by him. Time and wind and weather showed its effects, although in taking it down it was found to be very firmly set and fastened on stone foundations. This was built by John Lanktree when he owned the place, and when the grounds were laid out with commendable effect toward landscape gardening.
George Bennett, who suffered a partial stroke of paralysis last week, is resting comfortably at his home, and considerable improvement in his condition is reported.
Miss Grace Lumbert enjoyed the concert of the Lowell Choral society at Associate hall, Lowell, on Monday evening of this week.
The Ladies’ Aid of the Congregational church was entertained by its vice president, Mrs. L. W. Wheeler, on Wednesday afternoon of this week. The pleasant weather made it possible for nearly every member to be present. There were about thirty present, and needlework, sociability and the serving of refreshments made up the afternoon’s program.
The supper and entertainment under the direction of the men of the Congregational church will take place next Thursday evening, and they plan to make a repetition of last season’s successful event. Supper will be served at 6:30, followed by a concert program under the direction of Peter Picken, of Lowell, assisted by a large chorus.
Mrs. Calvin Howard, who recently underwent a serious surgical operation at the Margaret Pillsbury hospital in Concord, N.H., has returned from the hospital to the home of her son, Charles Howard, of that city, where she is convalescing, and later will return to her Westford home.
The Boxborough correspondent speaks appreciatively last week of the handsome calendar recently distributed to their customers in that town by Hartwell & Hosmer. The Westford customers likewise appreciate the calendar for 1913. We know of one housewife who has sufficiently liked the choice of subjects for these calendars for a number of years to have them framed and the collection has made a very pretty group.
A group of new books is being catalogued ready for the patrons of the J. V. Fletcher library.
Mrs. O. R. Spalding entertained very pleasantly a group of friends and neighbors for the day on Thursday. The happy standard of Mrs. Spalding’s hospitality was very fully maintained at this gathering.
Question has come to the correspondent for this column that in reviewing the deaths of members of the Congregational church in 1912, the name of the late Mrs. John B. Fletcher, of blessed memory, was not included. The facts are these: Mrs. Fletcher died in 1912, on January 6, just previous to the church’s annual meeting, which always comes the second Monday in January. Loving and appreciative tribute was paid to her memory at that meeting, and deaths recently chronicled were since the last annual meeting.
Lecture. The second in the series of entertainments under the direction of the teachers and pupils of Westford academy took place on last week Friday evening under pleasant conditions of pleasant weather, an appreciative audience and an interesting subject well presented. There was a stereopticon lecture by N. B. Hamblin, of Andover, on the “White Mountain region.” Mr. Hamblin is a real student of this region and an enthusiastic mountain climber. He admitted twelve ascents of Mt. Washington.
He took his audience, with the aid of a large number of beautiful views, over the trail marked out by the Appalachian club, starting out at Gorham, N.H., through the Presidential range. With fluent charm the speaker gave an attractive lecture, interspersed with many side lights of travel in the mountains.
The community surely feel indebted to Mr. Roudenbush for this pleasing course of entertainments. The third and last in the course will be by Professor Cowell, principal of Cushing academy, who will lecture on “If I were a boy again,” adequate notice of which will be given later.
About Town. Fletcher & Leahy of the firm of H. E. Fletcher & Co., stone contractors and builders, have a several months’ contract to blast and remove a troublesome ledge on the line of the Wells River railroad, forty miles north of Wells River Junction. It is on the banks of the Connecticut river and the stone is used to widen the roadbed along the river bank. Small miniature engine, cars and track are used to handle the stone. Within a year a serious accident happened to a fast running freight at this point. Age and the constant jarring of trains had loosened the stone, which is a species of rotten stone, and a large boulder rolled onto the track. The fast approaching freight struck it, the train was derailed and several trainmen killed. Hence this precaution work of Fletcher & Leahy.
The annual appraisal of property at the town farm will take place on Saturday, February 1, and the selectmen have appointed William E. Wright, David L. Greig and Alex McDonald as appraisers. The usual dinner for town officers will also be appraised at this time.
If you wish to pay what you owe, and have paid to you what is owing in the business transactions of the town, get busy with ink, for your business partner, the town, will take its annual vacation these spring-like days. Vacation will open on February 1, and last two weeks, during which time your partner will refuse to recognize you as business companion.
Rev. Lyman V. Rutledge, of Billerica, conducted the services at the Unitarian church on last Sunday, and in a clear and scholarly manner summed up “Preparation for duty.” Mr. Yarnold, jr., of Parkerville, was soloist and impressively appealed to the audience.
A bill has been introduced into the legislature “To make it unlawful to keep a cat without a legal permit.” The bill has been referred to the committee on agriculture, who are too busy at present to assign a date for a cat hearing, but during the intermission cats may be heard in their own language.
William C. Edwards has his usual number of wood choppers at work this winter. At present he is busy cutting off the Jubb lot on the line of Sawmill meadow and brook between Westford Center and Groton road.
The old Peletiah Fletcher house, the long ago, but of recent years the Decatur, on the Lowell road, has installed the “hello” link between itself and all others who have a “hello.” It is an all-round even thirteen affair, whether it be line or ring.
Houghton G. Osgood is having jury experience with the criminal classes arraigned in Middlesex county.
Two novelties were visible in Bedford while riding on Tuesday to the state law office in Boston. Ploughing on January 21 is novelty number one. The second is more so, for the old-time, slow New England ox was yoked in. Ox and master should be turned over to the progressives.
At the last meeting of the grange, two important questions were up for consideration: “Equal suffrage,” and “What crop paid best on the farm last year.” The first question came near being tabled because of the feeling that the state grange was meddling with what was beyond their province, but it finally got to a vote, and the feeling against “Equal suffrage” won out in votes. The second question took a humorous turn and watermelons raised on thy neighbor’s farm seemed to be all clear gain, only too many must not try the method.
Introduced a Bill. Representative Williams, of Billerica, has introduced a bill into the legislature “To establish an agricultural school in Middlesex county.” Land and buildings not to cost more the $75,000. The county commissioners to issue 4 percent bonds to mature in whole or in part in twenty years. The annual expense of said school not to exceed $25,000, one-half of which shall be paid by the state. The school is free to all persons in the county between the ages of fourteen and twenty-five, but any person over twenty-five years of age may attend by approval of the Board of Education. Should the bill pass it will pass the referendum test of the voters in Middlesex county at the next state election. Similar schools have been established in Essex and Bristol counties. This bill has been referred to the committee on education and a hearing assigned for February 6. Petitions are being circulated in the county in favor of it. Westford grange endorsed it at its last meeting.
Graniteville. In St. Catherine’s church on last Sunday morning, two masses were celebrated by Rev. Edward C. Mitchell, who also delivered a very strong and interesting sermon on “Thrift.” Both masses were well attended. On Sunday evening, the members of the Holy Name society attended in a body the union service of the Holy Name societies held at the Immaculate Conception church, Lowell. The service was very impressive.
Miss Inez George, of Portland, Me., has been a recent visitor in this village.
The good weather has scattered the ice on the mill pond once more, and skating is out of the question for the time being.
The adjourned meeting of the Westford Board of Trade that was held in Healy’s hall on Wednesday night was well attended, and much business of importance was transacted. A full account will be given later.
The Chicken club will hold a social dance here on Saturday evening.
The regular meeting of Court Westford, M.C.O.F., was held in Healy’s hall on last week Thursday evening. Business of importance was transacted and twelve applications for membership received. This court is now planning on building a big class initiation in the near future.
Business still continues to be good here in all branches.
Death. Mrs. Elizabeth Jane Caunter, an old and highly respected resident of this village [Graniteville] and the widow of the late John W. Caunter, who died only a few weeks ago, died at her home here Monday night after a long illness, all of which she bore with great patience and christian fortitude, aged 71 yrs. 2 mos. 20 days. She leaves to mourn her loss five sons—John H. of Providence R. I.; Horace M. and Benjamin of Lowell; Frank R. and Elmer W. Caunter of this village; also, two daughters, Mrs. David Reid and Mrs. Clarence McLean of Fitchburg.
Mrs. Caunter was a woman of many fine qualities and beloved by all who had the pleasure of her acquaintance. She was a devout attendant of the M.E. church until sickness prevented her from taking any active part in its affairs, but nevertheless she did acts of kindness, and her charity and good works was performed in her usual quiet way. Her death is particularly sad, owing to the fact that her husband died only a short time ago. It seems that the Caunter family have had more than their share of sorrow, and the sympathy of the village people is extended to them in their sad hour of affliction.
Forge Village. Mr. and Mrs. John Merrick and Miss Ellen Merrick recently arrived from Keighley, Eng.
Mrs. Charles Smith, who has been confined to her home by illness, has now recovered.
Baby Irene Whigham [born May 8, 1912, in Westford], who has been very ill at the home of her parents, is on the road to recovery. Dr. Cyril A. Blaney, of Westford, is in attendance.
It has been noticed that part of the wooden braces of the bathhouse platform have been taken away by some unknown hands; also, the locks have been pried open. All persons are warned from further mutilating the property, as steps for prosecution will be taken immediately, if anyone is caught at the act.
Mr. and Mrs. Henry Catchpole entertained Mrs. Catchpole’s brother, Thomas Kitchen, of Lowell, over Sunday.
Mr. and Mrs. David Lord had their daughter, Miss Mary Lord, of South Framingham, as their guest for a few days last week.
The services at St. Andrew’s mission will be held on Sunday afternoon at 4:30 o’clock, instead of in the evening as formerly. Sunday school will be held at 3:30 o’clock.
A branch of the Massachusetts Audubon society, founded in Boston in January, 1896, has been organized at Cameron school by the principal, Miss Letitia V. Ward. The society has for its main object the preservation of birds. Both boys and girls in the grammar grades received their cards of membership and button some time ago.
One of the largest seven-seater touring cars which travels between Boston and Groton took fire one day last week on Littleton road and was a very spectacular sight. It proved to be a total loss to the owner. As the gasoline tank exploded, and as nothing could be done to lessen the flames, the machine was burned beyond recognition, and a total wreck.
Mr. and Mrs. William Baker are to move into the new tenement which has been remodeled from the store formerly occupied by Victor Pigeon.
Cameron school closed on Friday, it being visiting day for the teachers.
Mrs. William Burnett picked a boiling of brussells sprouts from her garden on Tuesday. Mrs. Comey Precious had the pleasure of pulling some beets from her vegetable garden. Rather unusual conditions for January.
Forge pond is open and it does not look at the present writing as though there is to be much ice harvested this winter unless the weather man gets busy and sends some zero weather soon.
Miss Agnes Sullivan, of Nashua, N.H., spent Saturday and Sunday at the home of Mr. and Mrs. James Wilson.
A party from here went to Lowell on Monday evening to attend the recital given by the Choral society. The Misses Theresa V. Lowther and Rachael H. Cherry are members again this year.
Mr. and Mrs. James Kelley have been entertaining Mr. Kelley’s brother, William Kelley, and Mrs. Kelley, of St. Albans, Vt. This is the first time in nearly forty years that the brothers have met and a grand reunion it was. After a separation in their youth in Ireland, William came to this country and finally settled in Vermont. James went to Keighley, Eng., later and lived many years. A short time ago he came to this village and is now comfortably settled. The brothers kept up a correspondence during all these years, which resulted in the reunion.
A Successful Affair. A large and appreciative audience filled Abbot hall to the doors on last Saturday evening when the annual concert by the Groton School orchestra was given. The young ladies of St. Andrew’s mission presented the two-act comedy, “The six kleptomaniacs,” as an added attraction, and proved to be a most laughable affair. The whole entertainment was excellent in every particular and was a thorough success, both socially and financially.
The Groton School orchestra, composed of about twenty members, were assisted by the Misses Mary and Geraldine Lawrence and Miss Rose Peabody in violin solos and duets.
The concert this year was of the usual high standard of previous years, and the conductor, C. S. Griswold, is to be congratulated for the way the musical numbers were rendered.
The farce given by the young ladies and coached by the Misses Isabel Kearney and Rose Peabody proved to be a hearty laugh from the start to finish. The young ladies did their teachers great credit and deserved all the applause they received.
A dainty collation was served at the conclusion of the entertainment to all who took part. Mrs. R. D. Precious, Mrs. David Lord and Mrs. Bert Comey poured. The proceeds of the affair will be used for installing electric lights at St. Andrew’s mission.
Surprise Party. The home of Mr. and Mrs. L. T. Goucher was the scene on Friday evening of last week of a very pleasant surprise party given in honor of Mr. Goucher. A number from the M.E. church, Graniteville, together with friends in this village [Forge Village], gathered at his home and presented him with a purse containing a good sum of money. The presentation address was given by Rev. V. [U.] H. Layton, pastor of the M.E. church. Although taken by complete surprise, Mr. Goucher, after hesitation, thanked his friends in his most genial manner. The evening was spent in music and a general good time.
Miss Ruth Furbush played a piano solo; a duet was sung by Miss Louise Leighton and William DeRoehn; chorus singing by Misses May and Lily Macomber, Ruth Furbush and Louise Leighton; “Silver threads among the gold,” by Mr. Goucher and Mr. Layton was very much enjoyed.
A dainty supper was afterwards served by Mrs. Goucher and Mrs. William Robinson, after which the merry party broke up at a late hour. Rev. V. [U.] H. Layton had charge of the affair, assisted by Mrs. William Robinson.