The Westford Wardsman, March, 1915
Saturday, March 6, 1915
Center. Major Robert S. Hollis of Brooklyn, N.Y., and Miss Edna E. Gray of Roxbury were the guests of Mr. and Mrs. Walter L. Cutter on Wednesday.
Mrs. Ivan L. Kenney of Brookline is spending two weeks with her mother, Mrs. Lillian Lumbert.
Edward Clement, conductor on our branch line electrics, who has been seriously sick with bronchitis and threatened pneumonia, is reported as gaining nicely.
W. E. Wright joined his wife and little son where they have been visiting relatives in Providence, all returning home together at the end of this week.
H. V. Hildreth was among those in attendance at the annual meeting and dinner of the Merrimack Valley Technology club Thursday evening of last week, which organization is composed of alumni of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. At the business session Mr. Hildreth was elected representative of the Technology council.
The regular social for March at the Congregational church will be held next Friday evening and promises to be most attractive. In the afternoon there will be an old-fashioned quilting party at which the ladies are most cordially requested to appear in old-fashion costume. At 6:30 a salad supper will be served and in the evening an entertainment called “The country school” will be given.
Mrs. A. H. [Alonzo Hugh] Sutherland was among those present at the Martha Washington party, under auspices of the King’s Daughters at the First Baptist church, Lowell, Wednesday evening of last week, being the special guest of Mrs. Frank J. Spalding.
At the last meeting of the selectmen Alexander McDonald was appointed superintendent of streets for the year 1915. Leonard W. Wheeler was drawn to serve on the criminal term of the superior court. Frank L. Furbush was appointed to have charge of the board of health and Albert A. Hildreth as agent for the same.
Under the auspices of the W.C.T.U., Mrs. Carrie A. Robinson, field secretary of the Frances E. Willard Settlement in Boston, gave a talk last Sunday evening at the Congregational church. This was represented by many pictures illustrated by the church stereopticon and showed the growth and development of this work most clearly, both in providing a home for working girls and the many activities of the settlement work. The speaker also clearly presented the life at Llewsac lodge [now the site of Carleton-Willard Village] in Bedford. The service was supplemented with music by the young people’s choir.
Mrs. H. V. Hildreth, Mrs. A. W. Hartford, Mrs. H. E. Fletcher and Mrs. L. W. Wheeler attended the mid-winter meeting of the State Federation of Woman’s clubs in Somerville on Friday of last week. Mrs. Hildreth and Mrs. Roudenbush were in attendance at the Ayer Woman’s club on guest day, Wednesday of this week.
Children’s day at the Tadmuck club proved very successful. This took place in the vestry of the Congregational church on Tuesday afternoon and a large group of children were entertained and also their elders as well by Miss Anne V. Baker in cartoon sketches, clay modeling, impersonations, shadowgraphs and pianologues. Miss Baker proved herself a versatile and original entertainer, giving her varied program with much grace and spirit, and was much enjoyed by all present.
A very pleasing duet was given by Mrs. Grace Lumbert Kenney and Charles Roby at the morning service last Sunday at the Congregational church.
Mrs. H. V. Hildreth has recently received a letter from Prof. [Ernest David (1880-1954)] Waid at the Agricultural college at Amherst saying that he was much pleased at the interest manifested in having a week of the extension school here next season, and during the summer when the appointments were being made no doubt the application from here could be favorably considered.
William E. Wright has purchased a five-passenger Ford automobile.
Mr. and Mrs. William L. Woods, of Somerville, were in town on Sunday, coming by automobile. Mr. Woods is changing his two-passenger Chevrolet car to a five-passenger car.
The Edward M. Abbot hose company held their regular monthly meeting with supper at their headquarters on Boston road Tuesday evening.
Frank C. Wright is confined to his home with sickness and W. E. Green is taking his place on the R.F.D. route.
Grange Drama. The Grange play at the town hall last week Friday evening drew out a good-sized audience to witness the play “Jack o’ hearts,” a pretty three-act comedy drama. The well-known young people in the cast were as follows: Mrs. William R. Taylor, Frank Johnson, John R. Wright, Miss Martha Grant, Mrs. Florence Walker, William R. Taylor, Arthur Walker, Miss Hazel Hartford.
The leading roles were sustained by Mr. and Mrs. Taylor, Frank Johnson and Miss Grant. Mrs. Taylor carried her girlish part with grace and simplicity. Mr. Taylor acted well the part of the dignified young clergyman. Miss Grant’s acting was characterized with pleasing sincerity, while Mr. Johnson put some good acting into his scenes that won him much approbation. The minor parts were well carried and supplemented the others nicely.
The stage settings and costumes were most appropriate and while the plot of the play was not its strongest point, three different romances were happily adjusted.
Music between the acts was by Miss Moreland and Mr. Wallace, piano and violin, and some pretty ballads sung in costume by Mrs. C. A. Blaney as follows: “Annie Laurie,” “The days of the kersey dance” and “My bonnie.” Dancing was enjoyed after the play. The proceeds go to the State Grange educational aid fund.
About Town. The third farmers’ institute was held in Dracut last week Friday. The Middlesex school band of North Chelmsford, a large audience, high-grade speaking and a high-grade dinner were the features. H. F. Thompson, graduate of the State college at Amherst, gave an address on “Market gardening.” He knew his subject by experience and observation as farmer.
Oscar R. Spalding is cutting off the Riley lot at the junction of Groton and Forest roads. It is a small lot of about fifteen acres of pine lumber and oak cordwood. On the opposite side of the Groton road and nestling close by Flushing pond, John A. Healy is cutting off the Bacon lot. It is all oak cordwood with an occasional intention of lumber.
The next meeting of West Chelmsford Grange will be held at Historical hall on Thursday evening, March 11. A debate is planned between some nearby members of Westford Grange and West Chelmsford Grange members. The lecturer has not decided on the subject for debate yet.
The winds of Wednesday and sparks of a locomotive on the Stony Brook railroad started up a rushing business in the role of a grass fire soon after the noon hour. The fire was located between the railroad and Stony Brook. Such was the ambition of the fire that it threatened to do up said brook, but some hurry-up shovel work controlled it to burning over grass land of Amos B. Polley, W. R. Taylor and Bernard J. Flynn. In addition the fire attempted a canoe trip down the brook towards the sea, but after burning up the new canoe of Bernard J. Flynn it gave up the voyage.
A few of our townspeople have seen robins and bluebirds, a welcome sight, as it always makes us feel that spring is coming, and the pussy-willows are here, too. Looking back over the winter we feel that it has not been a severe one. It has been unusual perhaps in the amount of slippery ice which made it necessary for people to be careful when walking outdoors.
Deaths. Last week Friday morning Thomas Frear, of West Chelmsford, dropped dead at the stone quarry of H. E. Fletcher & Co., Oak hill. He was a paving cutter and had been in the employ of the H. E. Fletcher Company for many years. The funeral was held from his home last Sunday afternoon. Rev. Ephraim Luse [Leese], of the Village church, conducted the services. A delegation from the paving cutters union attended and the following from the union acted as bearers: Albert Rudkin, John Morgan, Herbert Baum and William Harriman. Burial was in the Village cemetery.
Mrs. George Goode and Miss Grace Litchfield, so well-known to the townspeople, have recently lost their brother, Frederick H. Litchfield. He died at his late home, 62 Maple avenue, Brighton, after a brief illness of pneumonia. He was the son of the late Paul F. and Sara Carter Litchfield, formerly residents of this town, and was born in Carlisle fifty-one years ago. A wife survives him, a brother William in Maynard, and the two sisters above mentioned. The burial was in the family lot in Green cemetery, Carlisle, February 25.
Mrs. Catherine (McGlinchey) Jones died at St. John’s hospital last Sunday afternoon after a brief illness aged thirty-nine years. She was the daughter of James and Ellen McGlinchey and her early home and school days was part of the village life of Westford Corner and West Chelmsford. In 1905 she was married to George F. Jones, a one-time scholar of the Stony Brook school. She was of a genial and friendly disposition which gathered to her a large and lasting friendship. She had been treasurer of Stony Brook Circle, F. of A., West Chelmsford, for several years. She leaves her husband, George F.; a daughter, Dorothy M.; five sisters, Mrs. Michael H. Donnelly, Mrs. Mary J. Mooney and the Misses Bridget, Margaret and Susan McGlinchey of Westford Corner; four brothers, Peter, Frank and Michael McGlinchey, of Westford Corner, and James H. McGlinchey, of Middlebury, Vt.; also, two nieces, R. Eileen McGlinchey and Mary Donnelly, and five nephews, Frank and Walter Mooney, William Donnelly and Leo and Raymond McGlinchey, all of Westford Corner.
Entertainment. West Chelmsford Grange, assisted by Westford and Lowell talent, gave an entertainment at the town hall, North Chelmsford last week Thursday evening. Those who were responsible for retaining and entertaining the hall full of folks for the musical part of the program were Donald Hanson of Lowell, Mrs. Harry Saxon and Mr. and Mrs. Arthur T. Blodgett of Westford, William DeRoehn of Graniteville and Miss Lottie Vinal of North Chelmsford. The accompanists of the evening were Mrs. Olin Johnson, Mrs. Emma Edwards, Miss Hanson and Mrs. McKenna. After this a farce was sprung on the surprise of the audience, entitled “The rescue of Pocahontas.” In this play Westford contributed Mr. and Mrs. W. Ryan, Edmond B. Whitney, Paul Smith, George O. Spalding, Fred L. Fletcher. The play and the costumes blended well with a taking audience. Mrs. Margaret Sarre, of Lowell, as reader between shifts, proved to be a good card.
Food Sale. The W.C.T.U. had a fine food sale at the home of Mrs. George A. Walker which is well adapted for such an affair. The sale on Thursday afternoon, February 25, brought out many people despite the inclement weather. There was a delightful little entertainment at the beginning which was much appreciated. Rev. David Wallace and George Walker gave some good music on their violins with Miss Moreland as accompanist. Miss Moreland sang very sweetly and Miss Young in costume read several selections to the delight of the audience. Aprons, candy and food were on sale and a good little sum was realized for the Frances Willard Settlement home which does such a commendable work in the West End of Boston. Those who served on the different committees were Mesdames A. Day, W. Fletcher, D. Greig, P. Wright, C. Blaney, S. L. Taylor and Miss Edith Wright.
Graniteville. William White, the well-known custodian of the Sargent school here, celebrated his seventy-ninth birthday anniversary on last Saturday afternoon by a little informal party held at his home in Fourth street, that was attended by members of the family and a few intimate friends. During the day Mr. White received many tokens from relatives that were unable to be present on this occasion, as well as receiving the congratulations of numerous friends. Luncheon was served during the afternoon, the pleasing feature of the event being the fine big birthday cake that was presented by Mrs. White. This came in the nature of a surprise to Mr. White.
Charles Day of Jacksonville, Fla., has been a recent visitor of his mother, Mrs. Charlotte Day, and Dr. and Mrs. W. H. Sherman in this village.
Word has been recently received here of the death of Mrs. George Jones of North Chelmsford. Mrs. Jones before her marriage was known as Miss Cassie McGlincey of West Chelmsford. The deepest sympathy is expressed for the bereaved husband and little daughter and the members of the McGlinchey family in this sad hour.
Andrew Johnson, with his daughter, Mrs. Elliott Humminston, of West Chelmsford, visited Mr. Johnson’s brother in Framingham recently.
Commencing last Monday, the mills of the Abbot Worsted Company will run on the five days per week basis until further notice.
Mrs. Minnie Gray, of Wilton, N.H., has been a recent guest of Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Carmichael.
The Young People’s club of this village presented that sterling comedy-drama, “Liberty Corners” to crowded houses in Abbot hall, Forge Village, Wednesday and Thursday evenings of this week. All did finely in their respective parts and the play was voted a great success. Quite a neat sum was realized on this event.
Forge Village. Miss Letitia V. Ward, principal of Cameron school, is confined to her home by illness. Mrs. Louise Braden, of Tyngsboro, is substituting for her at school.
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Connell have welcomed a little daughter [Alice Julia Connell born Feb. 23, 1915] into their home.
The mills of Abbot & Co., which have been running on a four-days-per-week schedule for several months, commenced on last Monday morning to run five days per week. The company only collected half rent from their tenants during the short time.
A student from Westford academy left, by mistake on the Fitchburg and Ayer car last week Thursday, a bag containing a sum of money. On telephoning to the office of the car barn the missing articles were returned to the owner on the return trip through the honesty of the conductor, Mr. Goddard.
“Religious men of olden times” was the subject of Rev. Williston M. Ford’s lecture at St. Andrew’s mission on last week Thursday evening. The singing of Lenten hymns by the congregation was a pleasing feature of the evening entertainment.
Mrs. Centerbar, of Groton, entertained Mrs. Charles Blodgett, Mrs. William Blodgett, Mrs. Chester Blodgett and Mrs. William Burnett on Wednesday at her home.
The members of the Young People’s Social club held a dress rehearsal in Abbot hall on Tuesday evening.
The Ladies’ Sewing Circle held their regular meeting on Thursday afternoon in Recreation hall.
William Burnett attended the meeting of the vestrymen of St. Andrew’s parish in Groton on Wednesday evening.
On Sunday holy communion will be administered by a visiting clergyman at 4:30 in the afternoon at St. Andrew’s mission. Mr. Ford, the vicar, will preach in Groton on that day. Plans are now under way to raise funds for the making of window screens for St. Andrew’s mission.
A service for the Russian population was held at the mission on last Sunday morning, a Russian clergyman officiating. The Russians certainly do themselves great credit in turning out to church services in such large numbers. Over one hundred were present, including many children.
James Bastow, of Hudson, was the guest on Sunday of Mrs. Eliza Oldham.
George O. Jackson is ill at his home.
Miss Rose Peabody, of Groton, gave an illustrated lecture on Japan at St. Andrew’s mission on Tuesday evening. The congregation sang appropriate Lenten hymns.
Frank Bennett and daughter Roxie, of Worcester, spent Sunday at the home of Mrs. H. E. Randall.
Ayer
District Court. The inquest on the death of Robert Henry, who was killed in a railroad accident in Westford on February 15, followed. The evidence given showed that Henry was employed in the suspender shop in Littleton. Some time ago he took a vacation on account of poor health. The day of the fatal accident he left his home in Littleton for a walk, as was his custom, and had proceeded about three miles from his home and was returning by the Boston, Nashua and Acton railroad track when he was struck by an Acton bound mixed train. The train stopped and the injured man was taken to the East Littleton station [on Littleton Road, Westford], where he died shortly after his arrival.
Frank S. Bulkeley, medical examiner, of Ayer, was the first witness heard. He told of going to East Littleton [station] to view the body in response to information received of the death of Henry and described in detail the injuries received by the deceased which resulted fatally. Such injuries were not inconsistent with injuries that could be received from being struck by a railroad train.
Dr. James D. Christie, of Littleton testified regarding treatment given by him to the deceased prior to the accident. Mrs. Delia Martyn a sister-in-law of the dead man, told of his movements during the day of the fatal accident up to the time he left his house for his afternoon walk. Mrs. Martyn lived with the deceased and his wife for years. She spoke of Henry, her brother-in-law, in the highest terms both as to his reputation and as a very kind husband.
Thomas F. Mullin, probation office of Ayer, followed Mrs. Martyn. Mr. Mullin went to the scene of the accident by instructions given by the court and made an investigation, taking several measurements of the land, at and near where the fatal accident happened. These measurements were shown on a plan prepared for the purpose.
Harry M. Whittemore, of Nashua, N.H., formerly of Ayer, engineer of the train that caused the fatal accident, said that the train, south bound, which was a mixed one, carrying freight and passengers, left Nashua at three o’clock in the afternoon on the day of the accident. The train reached the Pine Ridge station in Westford about twenty-three minutes late. After the train left his station he noticed a man walking on the track quite a distance ahead. The man was going in the same direction as the train. He blew the whistle for the crossing which the train was approaching, and seeing that the man was not getting off the track, gave the alarm whistle, which is a quick succession of sharp blasts. The next that he knew of the man was when told by the fireman that he was struck.
Mr. Whittemore said that he applied the emergency brakes and stopped the train. The injured man was just alive when the train crew reached him. He was removed to the East Littleton station, where he soon after died. Mr. Whittemore said that the train was going about twenty-five miles an hour when the accident happened. He said that he was employed by the Boston and Maine railroad for forty-one years. The testimony of the fireman and conductor were mainly corroborative of that given by Mr. Whittemore.
The station agent at East Littleton was the last witness. He was asked by Judge Atwood questions regarding his knowledge of the deceased and his disposition, and of the amount of travel over the railroad crossing in that vicinity. Charles E. Montgomery, of West Medford, an inspector connected with the Massachusetts public service commission, was present at the inquest.
Judge Atwood, in summing up the evidence finds that no unlawful act of any person or corporation contributed to the death of the deceased.
Saturday, March 13, 1915
Center. A little son, Richard Lawrence Hildreth, has been born to Mr. and Mrs. Harold W. Hildreth.
An interesting group of photographs of some of the best pictures in the Boston Art museum is on exhibition at the J. V. Fletcher library.
The next meeting of the Tadmuck club will be held at the Unitarian church on Tuesday afternoon, March 16. The meeting is in charge of Miss Alice Howard, who has arranged for a little music to illustrate her talk on “American folk lore.” Several members of the club are to read myths of Indian and negro origin. As the music committee is trying this year to familiarize members with music by American composers this opportunity to become acquainted with the basis for many of their compositions is very welcome. Guests may be brought upon payment of the usual fee.
A second son was born late in February to Mr. and Mrs. Frank J. Morin at their home in Ontario, Cal. The baby’s grandmother, Mrs. Joseph Morin, and aunt, Miss Mary Morin, of Westford, who are now in California, write pleasant letters home and expect to return later in the season.
It is good news that the J. V. Fletcher library is being wired for electric lighting, the work being done by Tuck & Parker, of Lowell. Twenty years ago, when the library was built, the system of lighting then installed seemed satisfactory, in fact at the time was the best method, but it has proved a good [deal] of trouble to maintain and many times inadequate, and now that electric lighting is available no doubt will prove much more attractive, especially for the librarian and in the reading-room.
Mr. and Mrs. Sydney W. Wright and baby, of Lowell, have been spending three weeks at Mr. and Mrs. Frank C. Wright’s.
The Misses Atwood, who have been spending a very pleasant winter in Jacksonville, Fla., are expected home soon and planning to spend some time in Washington on the journey north.
At J Herbert Fletcher’s store [on Lincoln St.] can be found a most attractive line of Easter, St. Patrick, birthday and novelty cards. These are the well-known Davis “Quality cards” and have been personally selected by Mrs. Fletcher, and inspection of them, especially the Easter Cards, which go on sale Monday, March 15, will be worth while.
H. L. Nesmith, forest fire warden, has revoked all permits for burning brush and will not grant any further permits at present. Three fires that got beyond control and called out all available help on Thursday of last week helped make this decision. One was at Brookside, one on land of Miss Ella F. Hildreth and one on land of J. C. Abbot. This last especially proved pretty threatening, getting within a very short distance of the Abbot barn, and if this had got on fire with the high wind blowing at the time a serious conflagration might have been the result. The quick, hard work of the firemen and getting a line of hose at work from the nearest hydrant just in time was what averted any such possibility. Once again did a public water supply justify itself.
Several interested autoists have been in attendance at the Boston auto show this week.
Frank C. Wright has recovered from his recent sickness and resumed duties on his R.F.D. route.
The whist party and entertainment on Friday evening of last week at the Unitarian church proved most enjoyable, calling out a large number of people. The entertainment consisted of solos by Mrs. Harry Saxon and recitations by Master Richard Baldwin, of Somerville. Both proved good entertainers and their selections were well received. Miss Julia Fletcher presided at the piano. Refreshments of cake and coffee were served. Mrs. Eben Prescott, Mrs. Frank Miller, Mrs. Lizzie A. Hamlin and Mrs. Henry Fletcher had the affair in charge.
Some things noted in a forty-mile auto ride last Sunday through several towns were roads all settled except in a few shaded places, many automobiles, motorcycles and pedestrians out, evidently for pleasure, all of which goes to prove that for the first Sunday in March the season is remarkably early.
About Town. Fires still continue to burn, aided by the weather as an accessory. On Wednesday afternoon of last week thirty-five acres of woodland and several cords of wood perished by the fire on land of Almon S. Vose in Parkerville. The origin of the fire is thought to be chargeable up to stock of the Boston and Maine railroad. On last week Thursday evening a grass fire burned over about fifteen acres of land of William C. Edwards, at one time a part of the Levi T. Fletcher farm, close to the Chelmsford town line, near Brookside.
The funeral of Mrs. Catherine (McGlinchey) Jones was held at her home on Quigley avenue, North Chelmsford, last week Wednesday morning, and then at St. John’s church at nine o’clock, a funeral mass being celebrated by the pastor, Rev. Edmund T. Schofield. The choir rendered the Gregorian chant. Miss Gertrude Quigley presided at the organ. Friends were present from Lowell, Attleboro, Graniteville, Providence, R.I., and other towns. A delegation was present from Stony Brook Circle, F. of A., of which the deceased was a member. The bearers were William Donnelly, Charles Martin, William Flynn, Dennis Sullivan, Owen McNally and Edward Dunn. Burial was in St. Patrick’s cemetery, Lowell.
Moore’s mill at Brookside is assuming a more prosperous business frontage and the amount of help employed is looking like forty and is liable to be more later on.
The next meeting of the Grange, Thursday evening, March 18, will be observed as the twentieth anniversary and is in charge of the past masters. The speaker of the evening will be E. E. Chapman, Master of the State Grange. In addition the masters of Granges of adjoining towns have been invited. Supper will be served.
Edson G. Boynton was a visitor in town last week and remarked how nicely his peas looked that were planted on the south side of a south wall twenty-five miles south of Westford.
Middlesex-North Pomona Grange held one of its most successful meetings last week Friday. The forenoon saw some fire up and back-fire up on the question “Is the germ theory overworked?” The afternoon was youthful in enthusiasm in song recitation and an exceptional address by Elvin J. Prescott, of Hampton, N.H., on “How to grow pansies for pleasure and profit.” The speaker had the talent to make an apparently uninteresting subject hold his audience with close attention. He will be remembered by many as a former minister of the Unitarian church in Littleton.
Mr. Kenney has arrived in town as the manager at the Read farm.
The W.C.T.U. meeting held on March 8, at the home of Mrs. Henry Colburn was well attended. The usual business was transacted and an account given of the money which was to be sent to help in the Frances Willard Home Settlement in Boston. The next meeting will be at the home of Mrs. Quincy Day, when a quilt will be tied to be sent to Llewsac lodge in Bedford.
Forge Village. On last Sunday the services at St. Andrew’s mission were conducted by Rev. A. W. Eaton, a retired clergyman of the Episcopal church, who resides in Boston. Holy communion will be administered on Sunday, March 14, at the usual hour.
Fred Morse, of Rochester, N.H., was the guest of J. W. Pyne, Pine Ridge, recently.
Mrs. Mary Murray and two daughters, Misses Annie and Emma, of Ayer, were among the out-of-town people present at the comedy-drama, “Liberty Corners,” given in Abbot hall last week by the Y.P.S.C.E. of the Graniteville M.E. church. The Murray family were former members of that church for many years.
A number of the members of the choir of St. Andrew’s mission attended the services at St. Andrew’s church in Ayer on Friday Rev. John Suter, of St. Anne’s church, Lowell, preached.
Miss Rose Peabody of Groton, gave a most interesting lecture on the manners and customs of the people of Japan in Recreation hall last Thursday evening. A large audience was present and all were well pleased with the hour spent following Miss Peabody on her recent trip to Japan.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Collins entertained twenty of their friends at whist on last Saturday evening. Ice cream and cake were served during the evening.
Henry Catchpole, who has been confined to his home for some time with pneumonia, is able to go out-of-doors.
Several from here enjoyed the free organ recital in Lowell last Saturday at the Universalist church.
Cameron school closes Friday afternoon for the annual spring vacation.
Miss Letitia [Ward] is still confined to her home by illness. Miss Ward, who is a favorite among the children, is very much missed. Mrs. Lewis Braddon, of Tyngsboro, is teaching as substitute during Miss Ward’s absence.
Miss Lottie Parrott has been a recent guest of Miss Marion Marshall, of West Chelmsford.
Mr. and Mrs. Chester Blodgett of Groton road, entertained Mrs. John E. Burnett and her son, Leonard, on Tuesday.
Graniteville. Word has been received here of the death of Joseph Lamie, a former resident of Graniteville, who was killed by being struck by a train in West Fitchburg on last week Friday night while going to his work at the paper mill in the above-named place. Young Lamie was very well-known here and beloved by all who knew him. He was twenty-two years old and unmarried. A brother, Arthur Lamie, resides in this village. The deepest sympathy is expressed to the bereaved family in their affliction.
Both masses in St. Catherine’s church last Sunday morning were celebrated by Rev. Edward C. Mitchell, who delivered eloquent sermons at both masses. The usual Lenten devotions were held in the church on Friday night and there was a large congregation present.
Miss Lila Woodhouse of Andover, who was formerly on the office staff of the C. G. Sargent’s Corporation here, has been a recent visitor, the guest of Mr. and Mrs. Mark A. Palmer.
Mrs. Maria Wall has been a recent guest of Mr. and Mrs. David L. Greig at the Fairview farm in Westford, where she was very pleasantly entertained during her short stay at the congenial home of the Greig family.
The home of Mr. and Mrs. A. R. Wall is again under quarantine, baby Cecilia being ill with scarlet fever.
The members of Cameron Circle C.F. of A., held their regular meeting in their rooms on last Tuesday night with a good attendance. Considerable business of importance was transacted and several applications for membership received.
Charles McLenna, of Norton has been a recent visitor here.
Many people from this village attended the automobile show in Boston this week.
Several of the local firemen here visited the John Edward’s hose company in Forge Village on Monday evening where several interesting card games were played, the “rubber” game going to the members of the Forge Village department. The upstream boys are expected down here some night in the near future.
Ayer
District Court. James Pronco, of Westford, was found guilty of assault and battery last Saturday morning and was taxed the amount of the prosecution amounting to twelve dollars.
Saturday, March 20, 1915
Center. The teachers and pupils at the Wm. E. Frost school are having this last week and next for the spring vacation. At the academy the teachers and pupils have this next week.
L. W. Wheeler has been getting about this past week on crutches, having his left foot in splints on account of having broken one of the smaller bones. Postmaster J. H. Fletcher has had to have his head bandaged on account of inflammation in one eye.
Rev. David Wallace has been among the shut-ins this week with a severe cold.
Mrs. A. W. Hartford has recently spent several days at the home of her brother, Frank P. Hawkes, in Melrose, called there on account of the death of a relative in the family.
Mrs. Isles pleasant voice at the telephone exchange has been missed this last week, she having been sick and under the care of doctor and nurse with laryngitis, but is now reported as improving.
Rev. Frank M. Baker, who has been spending several days in town, was the speaker at the evening service at the Congregational church last Sunday evening. On Tuesday he returned to his home in Andover, N.Y., where his present parish is and taking with him his little three-year-old daughter, Josephine, who has been with her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Bright, in this village since the death of her mother. Mr. Baker has married again and while deeply appreciating the devoted care given to his children by their Westford relatives, feels now that he wants his family all together.
J. W. Bright, who has been confined to his bed for several weeks with a serious fracture of his right leg, passed his seventy-fourth birthday anniversary this last week. He was the pleased recipient of an interesting group of postal cards numbering just one hundred and twenty-five and coming largely from his former home in South Royalston, Vt., and portraying familiar scenes and people. Mr. Bright is reported as resting comfortably.
In connection with her paper on “Folk lore” recently read before the Tadmuck club Miss Alice Howard wrote to the Bureau of American Ethnology, Smithsonian institution at Washington, as to the meaning of four local names of Indian origin. These names are more or less corrupted from the original Algonquin forms. Tadmuck probably means “at the narrow fishing place.” Another clerk says Tadmuck or Tadwick means “at the hill.” As the principal hill and the largest swamp in town bore the same name both interpretations seem plausible. Nubanussuck, now corrupted to Nabnassitt, is translated as “outlet of water,” Nashoba as “two ponds,” and Kissacook as “on a high crag.”
Westford men seem to be having one kind of luck as to jury duty lately. One juror was drawn for the criminal term of the superior court sitting in Lowell March 8. The court immediately excused him when he intimated that it was not good business policy to tie a town’s tax collector there. Three other men were drawn on account of a murder trial before the same court March 15. Of these Edwin H. Gould and Andrew Johnson were challenged by the government and Charles D. Colburn by the defense, so no Westford man is at this term of court, unless more are drawn on account of another murder case, a Groton case, which is expected to be tried before the same court.
Social. The regular monthly social for March at the Congregational church was most successful, taking place last week Friday, beginning at half-past two in the afternoon and lasting until late in the evening. The ladies were invited to come in the afternoon to an old-fashioned quilting party and to dress in old-fashioned costumes. This they did and it was a quaint and merry group that gathered around the quilting frame.
During the afternoon appropriate solos were sung by Mrs. Blaney and readings by Mrs. Perley E. Wright and later many old favorites were sung by all present. At 6:30 an appetizing salad supper was served and the long tables were well filled. The entertainment for the evening was “The district school at Blueberry corners” and proved a good time for everybody, those who took part and those who looked on. The varied costumes needed to be seen to be appreciated and the three parts of the entertainment were full of funny situations. The first act was the selection of a teacher by the school committee, said committee consisting of Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Knight and S. L. Taylor. Among the various applicants Fred Blodgett was selected and he carried out the part both in make-up and manner most successfully.
The second part was the first day of school and the third one the closing day of school and some remarkable stunts were given. “Twinkle, twinkle, little car,” written by Walter L. Cutter, was one of the recitations. John P. Wright as the school dunce, David L. Greig as the boy who stuttered and Miss Grant as the sentimental young lady with an eye for the young schoolmaster, were particularly good.
The remainder of the cast with their remarkable names were Miss Crocker, Mrs. Frank Miller, Mrs. David L. Greig, Mrs. Frank Bannister, Mrs. Willard Fletcher, Mrs. Fred Amesbury, Mrs. Bert Walker, Mrs. S. B. Wright, Mrs. A. H. Sutherland, Alice and Frances Wright, A. H. Sutherland, J. W. Fletcher, Charles Blodgett, L. W. Wheeler, D. L. Greig and F. E. Miller.
The quilting party, supper and entertainment were in charge of Mrs. A. W. Hartford, Mrs. John P. Wright, Mrs. D. L. Greig and Mrs. E. F. Amesbury. Twenty-five dollars was cleared for the church treasury.
Tadmuck Club. At the regular meeting of the Tadmuck club Tuesday afternoon, Miss Alice Howard gave a most attractive program on “American folk lore.” After defining folk lore as that science which embraces all that relates to the superstitions, beliefs and practices, old-time customs, traditional narratives and the folk sayings of a people and speaking generally of folk lore, Miss Howard confined her paper to a study of the myths and legends of our American Indians and Negroes, varying her program with supplementary readings by Mrs. Roudenbush and Miss Young. Mr. Helen K. Frost also contributed two narratives written by her and published in the Journal of American Folk Lore.
The musical part of the program was most enjoyable and consisted of quartet, duet and solo selections by Mrs. Blaney, Misses Edith Wright, Adrith Carter and Marion Moreland, as well as some typical Indian music on the Victrola.
The next meeting of the club, March 30, will be at the Congregational church and Mrs. Marie Rockwood will speak on “The work of the Y.P.C.C.” Hostess for the afternoon, Mrs. Eliot F. Humiston.
About Town. Fire started Saturday night on the grassland of George C. Moore and S. L. Taylor, located between the Stony Brook railway and the Stony Brook waterway, one-half mile west of Brookside. It burned swift and hard until it reached the Stony Brook; at this point for lack of combustibility it went out of business.
The farmers in the Stony Brook valley and the well-known dairy at the Greig farm on Main street and William Pollock on the Cold Spring road have sold the season’s milk to Wm. J. Burbeck of Lowell, well and favorably known to the citizens of Westford and a native of the town.
The Y.P.S.U., which includes Westford corner and West Chelmsford, held a meeting in the vestry of the village [West Chelmsford Methodist] church Saturday evening, when the following was on the reel and was unwound: Piano solo by Esther Smith and a sketch, entitled, “Bingville district school,” when the following scholars played study: Ellen Nelson, Leonard Burne, Esther Reid, Bernice Brown, Ebba Haberman, Albert Burne, Ralph Quessy, Harold Miller, Ralph Haberman, Walter Ryan and Emil Anderson. David Ohlsen was teacher. Besides the regular A. B. C. lessons there was singing and other harmony blendings. The committee in charge was Hilda Quessy, Mary Anderson, Harold Miller and Ralph Haberman.
West Chelmsford Grange held a well-attended meeting Thursday evening of last week when the following question was discussed: “Is the United States ready for nationwide prohibition?” Charles S. Edwards and W. R. Cole spoke for the affirmative and Samuel Naylor and James Peck were negative in opinion. The audience voted “Unprepared for so much sudden purification.” The following were appointed relief committee: W. R. Cole, Mrs. John Anderson, Mrs. Charles Byard, James Peck and Mrs. Etta Douglass. Mary A. Donnelly was piano soloist of the evening. Several proposals for membership were received. The next meeting will be held next Thursday evening.
The William J. Harfit family have moved from the John H. Decatur [54 Lowell Rd.] house on the Lowell road to the Read farm house on [164] Main street, where he is engaged for the season.
Tuesday forenoon a grass fire started on land of Amos Polley, a passing freight train sounding the fire alarm whistle, which brought railroad track men and some farmers from whom it received a serious beating, and being flanked south by Stony Brook, it got an outing.
Forge Village. The sympathy of the community is extended to the bereaved wife and family of the late George McCarthy of Graniteville, who died Sunday at his home.
Arthur Parrott is building a large barn for Joseph Leclerc in the rear of his provision store in Central street.
Rev. Thos. L. Fisher, pastor of St. Mark’s church, Leominster, and formerly vicar of St. Andrew’s parish, officiated at the Lenten services held at the mission on last week Friday evening. The chapel was packed to its utmost capacity, many of Mr. Fisher’s former parishioners coming from Lowell, North Chelmsford, Ayer and Graniteville. Mr. Fisher preached a very effective sermon.
“Pepper,” the valuable young colt belonging to John H. Connell, died last week from an abscess on the lung. The animal took first prize at the Middlesex North fair.
The sympathy of the village is extended to the bereaved family of Miss [Clara] Mabel York of Graniteville, who died Monday.
Miss Caroline E. Precious of this village and the Misses Mabel Prescott and Helen McCoy of Westford were guests of Mr. and Mrs. George Kimball at the performance of “Bachelors and maids,” given by the pupils of the Littleton high school in the town hall there on Friday night of last week.
Miss Helen McCoy was the guest of Miss Ruth Cogger of Chelmsford on Saturday and Sunday.
Rev. W. M. Ford conducted the services at St. Andrew’s mission on Sunday. He announced that Bishop Samuel Babcock will administer confirmation at St. Andrew’s church, Ayer, on Friday evening of this week. No Lenten services will be held at this mission this week.
Cameron school closed Friday afternoon for the annual spring vacation of two weeks.
A large number from here attended the concert held in North Chelmsford on St. Patrick’s night, under the auspices of St. John’s church.
Graniteville. Charles T. Brooks, who has been working in the south for the past few weeks, has been spending the past few days with his family here.
Michael Driscoll, of Lynn, has been a recent visitor here.
A small chimney fire caused considerable excitement at the Mrs. Rachel Reed block in West Graniteville last Saturday night, but a couple of the local firemen with chemicals soon put the fire out with very little damage.
Deaths. George J. McCarthy, a well-known and highly respected young man of this village, died at 12:30 o’clock last Sunday after an illness of less than two weeks’ duration of erysipelas, which later developed into pneumonia, aged thirty-four years. He was a big, good-natured fellow, who had a host of friends, and cut off as he was in the prime of life, his death comes as a severe shock to his many relatives and a wide circle of friends. He was a wool sorter by trade, having been employed by George C. Moore in North Chelmsford for the past few years. He was affiliated with the Wool Sorters’ union and was a member of Court Graniteville, F. of A. of this village.
The deceased leaves his mother, Mrs. Marion McCarthy; his wife, Bertha McLenna McCarthy; four sisters, Mrs. Ellen Tripp of Concord, Mrs. Annie Defoe, Mrs. Elizabeth Gower and Catherine McCarthy of Graniteville; also, three brothers, Robert J. and Thomas of Graniteville, and John E. McCarthy of North Chelmsford, as well as numerous relatives here and in Lowell, Boston and Somerville. The deepest sympathy is expressed for his wife and mother and the bereaved family in their affliction.
The funeral was held from the home on Tuesday morning, when at 8:30 o’clock the members of the Foresters of America assembled and after a brief Forestic service the funeral procession was formed, and with the Foresters ahead, being led by Charles E. Pape, chief ranger, all marched in a body to St. Catherine’s church, where a funeral mass was celebrated by Rev. Edward C. Mitchell. The choir, under the direction of Miss Mary F. Hanley, sang the Gregorian chant. At the offertory the “Pie Jesu” was sung and as the casket was being borne from the church the “De profundis” was sung by the choir. The funeral was largely attended.
There was a profusion of floral tributes which testified in a marked degree to the high esteem in which the deceased was held. The bearers were Charles McLenna, Lester McLenna, John R. Healy, Frank Charlton, John J. McCluskey, Samuel Smith. Burial was in St. Catherine’s cemetery, this village, where the Foresters performed the last sad rites for their departed brother. The Forester service, both at the house and grave, was conducted by F. G. Sullivan, past chief ranger of Court Graniteville, F. of A.
Miss Mabel C. York, of this village [Graniteville], died at her home here on Monday, March 15, after a long illness, aged 39 yrs. 11 mos. 15 days. She had been an invalid for several years, but suffered a severe sorrow in the loss of a dear friend something over a year ago, and since that time she appeared to have very little interest in life. She bore her sorrow and affliction with great patience and christian fortitude and passed to the great beyond peacefully and quickly, like a child falling asleep. She leaves to mourn her loss her mother, Mrs. Willard H. Beebe; two sisters, Lottie and Blanche; a brother, J. Ellsworth York; and a step-father, Willard H. Beebe. The funeral was held on Thursday.
Mrs. Adeline Nutting, widow of the late Henry Nutting, and a former resident of Graniteville, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Frank P. Hawkes, in Melrose, on Saturday, March 13, aged eighty-four years. The body was taken to Westford on the noon train last Tuesday. The burial took place at the Hillside cemetery, North Westford, where a brief service was conducted by Rev. Alfred Woods, a former pastor of the Graniteville M.E. church.
Stamping Out a Pest. The ravages of the tent caterpillar have been so destructive to fruit trees throughout the state for the last two or three years that the State Board of Agriculture this year intends to enlist the help of the school children in stamping out this pest. Notices have been sent to the superintendents of all the school districts in the state, announcing that the board is offering four silver cups, two to be awarded to the public schools of towns or cities of over five thousand inhabitants, and two to the schools of towns under five thousand whose pupils collect the greatest number of egg masses between March 20 and May 1. The pupils are to report daily to their grade teacher the number of egg masses which they have collected and the teachers in turn will make reports to the superintendent. The superintendents are to report to the secretary of the State Board of Agriculture not later than May 4, 1915.
At this season of the year the egg masses of this caterpillar are easily detected as there are no leaves on the trees and they form a small black band around the limb. On cutting these open one will find them filled with thousands of minute eggs. These eggs begin hatching about the time that the leaves open and the caterpillars then form the unsightly webs which have been such a prominent feature of the landscapes of Massachusetts for the last couple of years. The board hopes that with the aid of the 575,000 school children of the state most of the eggs can be destroyed before the hatching season begins.
Saturday, March 27, 1915
Center. Mrs. David Wallace has been suffering this week with a hard grippe cold.
Mr. and Mrs. S. B. [Sebastian Bangert] Watson are the most recent addition to the automobilists in our village, having purchased a five-passenger Ford equipped with self-starter and electric lights.
Mrs. H. V. Hildreth and Mrs. O. R. Spalding were in attendance at the spring meeting of the presidents’ conference of the State Federation of Woman’s clubs convened at Salem on Thursday.
Announcement has been received by the Westford friends of the marriage of Allister F. MacDougall to Miss Edna Catherine Comins, which took place on Saturday, March 20, at Amherst. They will be at home to their friends after May 1, at 219 Prospect street, Northampton. Mr. MacDougall is one of our Westford boys, a graduate of the Massachusetts Agricultural college ’13, after which he did some successful work as an instructor in the Extension School work of the college and more recently has accepted the position of county agent of the Hampshire Farm bureau, with office at Northampton. His many friends extend to him and his bride very sincere good wishes for happiness and prosperity.
Miss Sarah W. Loker and Miss May P. Bunce were present at the First Congregational church, Lowell, Wednesday afternoon to hear Prof. Moorehead,
Twentieth Anniversary. Westford Grange celebrated its twentieth anniversary at its last meeting, March 18. The meeting was in charge of past masters, who had many invited guests present. Representatives were present from Littleton, Groton, Acton, Carlisle, Chelmsford, West Chelmsford, Dracut, Billerica and Ludlow. It was a home gathering of enthusiasm and reminiscences. John P. Wright, past master, was toastmaster general, and by wit and cute contrivance remarks were solicited and responded from R. J. Barrow of Littleton, Millard and E. E. Sawyer of Groton, Charles A. Wright of Billerica, master of Middlesex-North Pomona Grange, Eugene Teabo, master of Carlisle Grange, Mrs. Alice Colburn of Dracut, chaplain of Middlesex-North Pomona Grange, and Mr. Tenney of Acton Grange.
The principal address of the evening was given by E. E. Chapman, master of the State Grange, of Ludlow, on “Opportunity,” in which the Grange figured as a new and encouraging opportunity. After his address he followed in song and responded for approval. Mrs. Harry Saxon, of West Chelmsford Grange, was several times called for in song. As an experienced actor in the theatre her singing was a digression from the ordinary being well charged with singing in action. A letter was read from Frank H. Stevens, of Stow, the installing officer twenty years ago in the vestry of the Unitarian church. Illness prevented his personal attendance. A letter of regret was also read from Mr. and Mrs. Edson G. Boynton, of Medfield. As a former master of the Grange he was active in the interest of the Grange, and Mrs. Boynton was a helpful spirit in the music.
By request of the state master the charter members of the Grange who were present were requested to arise, the following responding: J. Willard Fletcher, Mrs. Frank W. Banister, Mrs. George A. Kimball, Mrs. Osian V. Robey, William R. Taylor, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel L. Taylor.
The disappointing feature of the entertainment was the absence of Chas. A. Kimball and Frank H. Hill, superintendent of schools, Littleton. Both were listed in the enthusiasm class. This expected enthusiasm was turned over for adjustment and reconciliation to the supper table—no better place to forget your losses. This supper proved to be ample and social enough to cause disappointments in other ways to disappear.
Among the past masters present were Frank C. Wright, Willey M. Wright, John P. Wright, Alonzo H. Sutherland, Leonard W. Wheeler, J. Willard Fletcher, William R. Taylor and Samuel L. Taylor.
Of Leonard W. Wheeler it can be said he was the chief figure and only moving spirit in starting the Grange twenty years ago. Being at that time a member of Littleton Grange he was by the rules of order disqualified from signing as a charter member, but wherein he was hampered by technical rules at the time of institution of the Grange he made up in enthusiasm.
Forge Village. Rev. William M. Ford conducted the Lenten services at St. Andrew’s mission on Thursday evening at 7:30. A committee meeting was held previous to the services.
Mr. and Mrs. William Burnett, Mrs. John Carmichael and Miss Theresa Lowther, together with Francis Lowther, the latter one of the bearers, attended the funeral of Mrs. Wilfred Normington held in St. Matthew’s Episcopal church, Worcester, Monday.
St. Andrew’s church has received a gift of new hymn boards from the members of the Sunday school.
A large flock of ducks was seen this week flying over the pond here. Four seagulls are making their home for the present at the pond.
Mrs. Pollie Normington, of Worcester, formerly of this village, died at her home on Thursday night, March 18. Mrs. Normington resided here over twenty years and was in the true sense a christian woman. She labored in the service of St. Andrew’s mission while here and helped to establish the church fifteen years ago. Mr. Normington held a responsible position here with Abbot & Co. The family removed to Worcester eight years ago. She leaves to mourn her loss her husband; two daughters, Mrs. Fred Reed of Lowell, and Mrs. Fred Oakes of Worcester; also, one granddaughter, Edith Oakes. A large circle of friends here attended the funeral which was held in Worcester on Monday.
Mr. and Mrs. Myles Collins have recently entertained Miss Grace Delemore[?], of North Billerica.
Mrs. R. D. Prescott has been confined to her home by illness.
The many friends of William DeRoehn will be interested to learn that he intends shortly to enter a seminary for the study of the ministry.
A most enjoyable affair, in the shape of an experience party, was held in Recreation hall on St. Patrick’s night. Forty dollars was raised by different interested persons who gathered to tell how they raised the money. A concert preceded the story telling and was very much enjoyed. Refreshments were served and a most delightful evening spent.
Cameron school reopens on Monday after the annual spring vacation.
Graniteville. The members of Court Westford, M.C.O.F., held an interesting meeting in their rooms last Thursday night.
Mr. and Mrs. Fred Saunders and daughter Doris, with Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gilbert and daughter Elinor, of Nashua, N.H., have been recent guests of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Wall.
The Ladies’ Aid society of the M.E. church held a meat-pie supper and entertainment in the church on Thursday evening of last week which was largely attended. The supper was served at 6:45 and the entertainment began at eight o’clock, consisting of readings by Miss Marjorie Murphy; vocal solos, Miss Eva Henderson; singing, M.E. church male quartet, and violin and piano solos. The whole affair proved to be very enjoyable and quite a neat sum was realized on this event.
Mrs. James H. Payne, the Misses Dora and Rebecca LeDuc, Miss Rachel Wall and Elizabeth Daley, with a party of Lowell friends, attended the religious drama, “Pilate’s daughter,” that was given in Boston on last Sunday.
Miss Mabel Loftus, of Lowell, has been a recent visitor here.
There are still several cases of scarlet fever in town.
William Gilson has been on the sick list for the past few days, but is now improving.
Miss Bertha Galbraith, of the office staff of the C. G. Sargent’s Sons machine shop, has been on the sick list for the past few days.
Mr. and Mrs. Charles G. Sargent, with their daughter Vivian, have been in Pinehurst, N.C., for the past two weeks. Mr. Sargent has recently recovered from an attack of the grippe.
Joseph Carpentier, whose blacksmith shop [on Bridge St.] was burned recently [March 11], has purchased a lot of land near the railroad bridge at the head of Broadway, and is having a new blacksmith shop erected. The work on this building will be rushed to order to have Mr. Carpentier attend to his ever increasing business.
The public schools will open for the spring term on Monday, March 29.
The members of Cameron Circle, C.F. of A., held a largely attended and interesting meeting in their rooms on Tuesday evening with Miss Marion Lord, chief companion, in the chair. Business of importance was transacted and delegates elected to the annual convention that will be held in Boston next may.
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