The Westford Wardsman, May, 1909

Saturday, May 1, 1909

Centre. A fine large sign reading William E. Frost school has been placed across the front of the new school building recently, which plainly and fitly labels it.

A group of girls, about a dozen in all, the members of Mrs. Houghton G. Osgood’s Sunday school class, met at the home of Miss Hilda Isles with the object of forming a girls’ club. Only the preliminaries were discussed at this gathering, and the meeting closed with a pleasant social. There were games and singing, piano duets and solos and Mrs. Isles served refreshments to her little daughter’s guests.

The ladies of the W.C.T.U. are making arrangements to entertain the county convention at the Congregational church, Thursday, May 20.

Henry A. Bunce of Chelmsford is building a summer cottage on the sightly slope of Providence hill on his father’s farm.

Harry Prescott has been spending a few days at his boyhood home in this village.

Miss Sarah W. Loker was a guest last week at the Wm. A. Perkins home in Grafton.

Miss Mary Sargent and Miss Gertrude Craven were guests with Mrs. Henry Hildreth at the Tadmuck club Tuesday.

Miss Emily F. Fletcher supplemented the two long papers with a brief account of the park system of greater Boston.

Mr. and Mrs. Wells who have been spending the winter with their son, Dr. O. V. Wells, returned to their home in northern Vermont Saturday of last week.

Firemen’s Meeting. The board of fire engineers, consisting of Capt. S. H. Fletcher, Albert R. Choate and John Edwards, met at the town hall last week Thursday evening for the purpose of working out a harmonious and well understood course of action in case of fire. The captains and lieutenants of the three hose companies were also present. To prevent conflict of authority it was decided that the fire engineers will act only in the water district and the firewards to attend fires in buildings outside the water district, the forest fireward and his deputies to attend all forest fires.

The public should take notice that they should not call upon the hose companies outside of the water districts. While they may be willing and have responded to such calls it is the duty of these other mentioned officers to attend these fires. Attention to such fires falls by law to these officers.

A change in the by-laws was made so that the Edward M. Abbot hose company, No. 1, should hold their annual meeting the first Tuesday in May, instead of the first Monday, and the Albert R. Choate company, No. 2, the first Monday evening in May, instead of the first Tuesday evening.

The engineers are to equip the three hose wagons with gongs.

Tadmuck Club. It was the annual meeting of the Tadmuck club for its fourth season of work together Tuesday afternoon. The club has never had but one president, and with a good attendance of members with all voting every ballot was for Miss Loker. Miss Loker, who has directed the club with such tactful efficiency during its several seasons, thanked the members for all loyalty and helpfulness. Mrs. B. H. Bailey, who has also served the club as vice-president since its beginning, declined renomination and Miss Ella F. Hildreth was elected in her place. Mrs. Wm. A. Woodward succeeds Mrs. L. W. Wheeler, who has been the club’s secretary and treasurer for two years.

The program for the afternoon was, “Boston; its historical points of interest and its present day attractions,” in charge of Mrs. B. H. Bailey. Mrs. Bailey was unable to be present, having been called away by the death of a relative, but left the excellent program she had secured in charge of Miss Emily F. Fletcher. Miss Clara Smith gave a paper on “Historic Boston,” choosing out of a wealth of material, an interesting group of subjects, told with characteristic, clear-cut good sense.

Mrs. Harriet Sargent Hildreth presented the second paper, “Modern Boston.” With a preliminary sketch of many attractions, Mrs. Hildreth confined the remainder of her paper to Copley square, giving accounts of beautiful Trinity church, the art museum and the public library, particularly of the latter. The paper was so smoothly written and well presented that it could only be the result of much thorough and patient research, and was heartily appreciated by the members.

About Town. If you are not too busy prying open the frozen ground to plant, try and remember and attend the next meeting of Middlesex North Pomona at Odd Fellows’ hall, Bridge st., Lowell, on Friday, May 7, and also carry this thought around with you, that for your special benefit, who are trying to rush nature long before she has got through her freezing up and thawing out premeditations, there will be an afternoon and evening session only, so that you can have the forenoon to give nature the usual rush thrust that you are ready for business, and kindly hint to her to clear the track of frozen ground for the race. In the evening you certainly can’t rush the race unless you borrow Amos Polley’s new and handsome rainbow headlight.

The annual Parish meeting of the Unitarian society will be held at the vestry of the church this evening, Saturday, May 1, at eight o’clock. There are seven articles in the warrant, which is directed to Abiel J. Abbot, clerk of the parish and is signed by H. V. Hildreth, W. H. H. Burbeck, Edward Fisher, assessors of first parish.

The Enterprise club at its Sunday evening meeting reviewed the life and writings of Robert Louis Stevenson [1850-1894]. Miss Mabel Miller led the meeting. Contributions were most appropriately given by Mrs. H. B. Hall, Miss Gertrude Bartlett, Miss Edith Babbitt, Miss Grace Bennett and Miss Gertrude Hamlin. Rev. B. H. Bailey illuminated the subject as he read in his clear emphatic manner selections from the writings of Stevenson.

This afternoon and evening, May 1, at the town hall, the children of the Frost school will give an entertainment for the benefit of a piano fund. The grange orchestra will furnish music for the benefit of those who can’t keep their feet still. Now you surely won’t forget to come. This will be a financial saving to you, over a subscription list. You are bound to be caught in one, for the children know how it is done, so make preparations to come out from your hiding place and help along the cause of music that hath charms to soothe the savage breast. [1] Come and get a charm on you.

Nathaniel J. Decatur has bought the N. J. Turcotte place on the Boston road, located between the George Drew farm and Minot’s corner. There are sixteen acres of land, cottage house and barn and here is where Nathaniel will farm.

C. R. P. Decatur, Amos B. Polley, Samuel L. Taylor have been appointed appraisers of the estate of the late Eben W. Tallent [Tallant] and will do the duty assigned them Saturday, May 1.

Since Westford station was built sixty-nine years ago, it has had but two station agents, Daniel Falls and Charles E. Whitten.

Mrs. J. Willard Fletcher [Etta H.] has been appointed station agent at Westford to succeed her father, Charles E. Whidden, deceased.

The next meeting of the grange will be held next Thursday evening. Part of the lecturer’s hour will be devoted to discussing the question, “Some troublesome pests and how to deal with them, to what extent is the orchard crop increased by spraying.”

The children of the Stony Brook school observed Arbor day by setting out trees and laying out lawns and flower plots. How much more conducive to individual character to observe the spirit of Arbor day this way, than trespassing around in search of birds’ nests or spying, prying around trying to locate where the farmer is likely to plant his watermelon patch.

The assessors commence Saturday, May 1, to search for that money that the town voted to raise at its annual meeting. Now no hiding behind the currant bushes to dodge the issue that everybody voted with a smile. Undoubtedly there will be a gathering of frowns as the assessors travel on their usual rounds.

Obituary. Charles E. Whidden, who died at his home last week Thursday morning was a native of Westford, being one of seven children of Joshua and Martha (Fletcher) Whidden, the homestead being located at Whidden’s corner at Oak Hill and Groton roads. He was clearly representative of early New England physical build, of large rugged build, which was his inheritance from both ancestral lines, his mother being a sister of Levi T. Fletcher of stalwart frame, well remembered for his strong Yankee endurance, being in his day one of the large farmers at Brookside.

In early life he worked for several years at shoe-making in Danvers and Peabody. For two years he was station agent at West Chelmsford; for the last thirty-seven years he has been the station agent at Westford, where he has proved an efficient manager for the Boston and Maine railroad, and his long term of service clearly proves it.

Added to this long and faithful service, he has maintained a public conveyance to Westford Center and other places, and in this connection he has served as United States mail carrier, so that in this varied public service, he has been one of the most familiar figures on the streets and in public service, and his broad shouldered personality is missed in the various services he rendered the public. For seventy-three years he rendered service on earth, before vacation under the turf.

The funeral services were held from his home last Saturday at eleven a.m., and flowers, friends and relatives were abundantly present in this last tribute of memory. The services were conducted by Rev. Benjamin H. Bailey of the Unitarian church, who dwelt feeling and with apt appropriateness upon his long faithful public service, and his strong home attachments. Mrs. Homer M. Seavey sang with rare taste, “We shall meet again” and “Face to face.” Mr. Whidden leaves five sons, Arthur C., of Boston, Clarence W. of Lowell, president of the Central savings bank, Ralph C. of Concord, Chester G. of New York, Graham R. of Lowell, and one daughter, Mrs. Willard [Etta H.] Fletcher of Westford. The five sons and J. Willard Fletcher were bearers.

The funeral party took the noon train for Danvers, where the remains were laid at rest beside his wife.

In the Civil war Mr. Whidden served active service with the Massachusetts troops.

Graniteville. W. Carroll Furbush of the U.S.S. Nebraska, is now home on a twenty days’ furlough and stopping with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank L. Furbush in this village. Young Furbush has advanced rapidly since he joined the navy and is now rated first class machinist on the Nebraska, with a substantial increase in wages.

Bert DeRoehn, the well known ball player, visited friends in this village recently. Bert is now making his home with his parents in Lowell. His father Captain Eugene DeRoehn suffered a severe fall a short time ago, but is now rapidly improving.

Miss Emma Farrell of Philadelphia, a former resident of West Chelmsford, visited friends in this village recently.

Miss Millicent Dunn of West Chelmsford and Miss Nellie Reagan of Worcester were recent visitors here.

Minstrel Show. That long-looked-for minstrel show that has aroused such deep interest in local circles of late was presented in Abbot’s hall, Forge Village, on last Saturday evening, under the auspices of St. Catherine’s Temperance society. As a result of careful advertising, and owing to the popularity of the people that took part, the house was packed to the very doors, and the “S.R.O.” sign hung up long before the opening overture. Every town within a radius of ten miles was represented on this occasion, and aside from the large number from Graniteville and Forge Village, large delegations from North and West Chelmsford were present, including several well-known people from Lowell and Nashua.

The show was first-class in every respect, the work of the chorus being particularly good, owing in a measure to the clever direction of R. J. McCarthy, assisted by the piano playing of Miss Ruth Furbush, who had entire charge of the musical program from start to finish, and was accompanist for the different soloists during the evening.

The stage setting was very pretty, the background being a large American flag, while various colored streamers were festooned from above and draped deftly at each corner of the stage, while in the foreground different designs of Japanese lanterns were hung.

The girls that composed the chorus were all dressed in white, were in black-face, and wore yellow turbans and neckties. The young women soloists, Miss Rebecca LeDuc and Miss Catherine Rafferty, were attired in cerise costumes of the latest princess pattern and the endmen were resplendent in red and green satin with white gloves. The interlocutor, R. J. McCarthy, was the center of attraction in a costume of black and gold satin.

The jokes as given by the endmen were new and catchy, many being of a local character that made a decided hit. The end songs “caught on” with the crowd in great shape, while the solo work of the women members of the circle drew liberal applause from the large audience.

The second part opened with a pleasing song by Miss Mary Leary of North Chelmsford, and she sustained her reputation as a singer of great charm by the able manner in which she handled a flexible soprano voice of rare sweetness. Mrs. O. A. Nelson followed with a reading which was given in her usual clever manner, her clear voice being particularly fitted for the recitation selected. Miss Clara Baird of West Chelmsford, a singer of great promise, was next in order, and her well-trained voice was never heard to better advantage, her round, full notes in the upper register being especially pleasing. Mrs. Frank Edwards was accompanist.

The show closed with a laughable farce entitled “A baseball crank”, with the following well-known people in the cast: “Dr. Strike,” Bert Wall; “John Fowl, a countryman,” R. J. McCarthy; “Tom Pitcher,” the baseball crank, R. J. Heman. The farce was a fitting climax to a well presented show and made a decided hit.

Dancing followed the entertainment, and refreshments were served during the evening. Miss Ruth Furbush furnished the music for dancing. Late cars on the Lowell and Fitchburg line conveyed the crowds to their home after the show and dance.

The whole affair was one grand social and financial success.

Fortnightly Club. The many people who attended the meeting of the Fortnightly club in North Westford on Friday night, April 23, were well rewarded, for the entertainment as presented at that time was the best of the year. The meeting was opened with prayer by Hiram Dane, and after the business was dispensed with the following pleasing program was given:

Recitation, Edwin Gould; phonograph selections, J. Everett Woods; cornet solo, Arthur Blodgett; readings, Mrs. Zina Ingalls, Mr. Smith, Mr. Dane, Horace Gould; dialogue, “Fools step in,” with the following cast: Jack Taylor, a bashful bachelor, Edwin Gould; Rufus Marshall, a practical joker, H. E. Gould; Rev. Theodore Angel, Charles Blodgett; Nora, maid at Mr. Angel’s, Mrs. Lizzie Wyman; Miss Maria Wesley, a maiden lady, Miss Lillian Wright; Miss Honora Wesley, niece of Maria Wesley, Mrs. Alma L. Gould; Roderick, a messenger boy, Ernest T. Wright; guest, Miss Lizzie Wyman.

Miss Lillian S. Wright had charge of the dialogue, while the following constituted the general committee: Miss Lillian Wright, Mrs. Hans Dege, Arthur Blodgett. The whole affair was very pleasing and reflects great credit on the committee in charge. The usual large number were in attendance.

Forge. The teachers of the Cameron school are making arrangements to hold a dance May 14, in Abbot’s hall, the proceeds to go towards purchasing pictures for the school.

The household effects of the late Mrs. Winnie Larkin were sold at auction Saturday afternoon, April 24, at her late home.

Mrs. Fred Ammison of East Dedham is visiting her sister Mrs. Sheck, also her daughter, Mrs. Stephen Haley, of Graniteville.

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Mason have gone to housekeeping in the cottage built by Mr. Pulsifer.

The people of this village are very anxious to hear of Joseph Talamini, who has been missing since April 21. Fearing that he might have fallen into the canal the water was shut off and the canal lowered, but the body was not discovered. He was a good worker and well liked. A photograph of him was sent to the Lowell Citizen, and it is hoped, if living, he may be found. Another effort to drag the pond will be made if he is not heard from.

St. Catherine’s Temperance society held a minstrel show and dance, in Abbot’s hall Saturday evening. There was a large audience, and all felt well pleased with the entertainment. The proceeds are to be used by the society, which is rapidly growing in members.

Mr. and Mrs. John Edwards entertained a large party from Worcester at their home the last of the past week. A party was given in their honor Saturday evening and a fine musical program was enjoyed.

Mr. and Mrs. Archie Whigham of South Barre were guests of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Hunt over Sunday.

Mrs. Nelson Prescott is visiting Mrs. Richard Schendlar, Norwood, R.I. From there she will go to Ellsworth, Me., for the summer.

Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Daily of Leominster were week-end guests of Mrs. M. A. Lowther.

Rev. T. L. Fisher occupied the pulpit at St. Andrew’s mission Sunday last, and was gladly welcomed by his friends.

Chas. Dodge of Lowell has been at his cottage fore a week getting it ready for summer.

A. W. Carkin spent Sunday with his daughter Mrs. Caisse of Leominster.

The little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Mountain is very sick with bronchitis.

There are a number of cases of measles still in the village.

Miss Mary Hanley held a musicale at her home Wednesday evening. About thirty of her pupils were present. After enjoying the music and a social hour icecream and cake was served and all went home well pleased with the evening’s entertainment.

John Bennett and wife of Worcester visited friends here this week, making their stay with Mrs. H. E. Randall, and also visiting his brother, Alvin Bennett and his sisters, Mrs. Read and Mrs. Drake. Archie Bennett of Somerville was in town for a short visit.

Clarence Adams, on his return from Riverside, Calif., to Easton, Maine, stopped over to visit his aunt, Mrs. Delano of Ayer, and W. E. Parsons of this village. He expressed himself as highly pleased with riverside and thinks California a fine country.

[1] This saying, often misrepresented as “Music has (or hath) charms to soothe the savage beast,” is the first line from English poet William Congreve’s (1670-1729) poem “The Mourning Bride,” written in 1697.

Saturday, May 8, 1909

About Town. At a meeting of the assessors last week Thursday evening, the assignment of territory was laid out. J. Willard Fletcher was assigned Graniteville and Forge Village, Charles D. Colburn the east and north sections of the town, William L. Woods, Westford center and Parkerville.

At the annual parish meeting of the Unitarian society last Saturday evening the clerk, Abiel J. Abbot, called to order. Owing to the rain and May party at the town hall, an adjournment was voted until Saturday evening, May 8.

The active Enterprise club held its usual Sunday evening meeting at [the] Unitarian church. Miss Etta McDougall led the meeting, with a well-prepared paper on the life of Alice Freeman Palmer, [1] at one time president of Wellesley college. Appropriate selections were read by Miss Edith Babbitt, Miss Gertrude Bartlett, Miss Beatrice Sutherland, Miss Ruth Miller, Miss Gertrude Hamlin, Miss Mabel Miller and Miss Grace Bennett. These were followed by Rev. B. H. Bailey in his usual comprehensive survey of individual influences.

Twelve persons were present Wednesday afternoon at the meeting of the W.C.T.U. at the residence of Mrs. Emery J. Whitney on Main st. The meeting was largely devoted to arranging plans for the W.C.T.U. county convention, which will meet in Westford, Thursday, May 20, the program of which will be ready for publication next week.

Frank F. Johnson has been appointed mail carrier, temporarily, in place of Charles E. Whidden, deceased. The United States government has called for sealed proposals for carrying the mail from Westford station to Westford Center. Blanks for sealed proposals can be obtained of Postmaster Fletcher. All bids must be in by May 10.

An adjourned as well as regular monthly meeting of the Spaulding light cavalry association will be held at the armory of the company, Saturday afternoon and evening, May 15. At this meeting the report of the committee on making arrangements for the annual reunion will be presented for consideration. As this will be an important meeting let us trust some nearby members will not always exemplify human life as if [of?] old, who when asked to go work in the vineyard today, answered “I go sir,” and went not. [Matthew 21:30]

Rev. C. P. Marshall and Charles O. Prescott attended the Tuesday evening lecture by a black-colored individual at Littleton. [2] They arrived there and here by foot pressure controlled by wind and gravitation.

About fifty bushels of potatoes have thus far been distributed in the soil by sons of toil in the valley of the Stony brook. Now just take a look in various ways at various days, some in hill and some in drill, some by Sam and some by Will. Polley has the largest lot. Some folks think they will all rot. We know it is cold enough to bring tears to their eyes, but we all planted in the faith of warmer skies.

Miss Sarah Richardson who will not see an even ninety years again and who has been seriously ill is getting well by her will, also more well by Dr. Wells. By this double method of get well, she is willfully opposed to foreclosing on her right in a small piece of land. Miss Reigs, her companion, who has also been ill is in the same ditto class, but not so emphatic.

Will Address the Grange. At [a] recent meeting in Lowell of the milk producers’ protective association of Middlesex North, Leonard W. Wheeler was elected a member of the committee to secure new members and financial pledges to support the reasonable rights of farmers in relation to an arbitrary enforcement of the milk standard, and an over-meddlesome and unreasonable inspection of barns on the part of state officials. Even thus is it right to have reserved rights for emergency and sound the alarm and call them out and concentrate for defense. In this connection it might be well to mention that at the meeting of the grange Thursday evening, May 20, state lecturer, Charles M. Gardner [3] of Westfield, will address Westford grange, and be it remembered he is a member of the Massachusetts legislature, and secretary of the committee on agriculture, before whom this question of a standard of milk and barn inspection has held so many animated hearings recently. While the state lecturer will not probably take this as the subject of the evening’s address, he might easily be persuaded to add as a sort of appendix to the regular address “some impressions of those hearings.”

Obituary. James A. Hosley, who died in Lowell last week Thursday, was for several years a resident of Forge Village. He enlisted from Westford, July 22, 1862, in Company E, of the 33rd regiment and was in the battle of Chancellorsville, Fredericksburg and Gettysburg, and afterwards saw service in the army of the Tennessee. He was a courageous soldier and was severely wounded at the Gettysburg battle.

The funeral took place from his home in Lowell last Sunday. Rev. George E. Howard conducted the Bservices. Singing was by Misses Amanda and Louise Barnard. The bearers were D. L. Page, E. A. Bartlett, P. P. Trowbridge and M. Welch, members of the G.A.R. Burial was in the family lot in Fairview cemetery, Westford. Mr. Hosely was 82 years and 3 months old, and is survived by a widow, one son Alonzo Hosley of Forge Village, three daughters, Mrs. Augusta E. Taylor of Lowell, Mrs. Emma M. Willard of Worcester, Mrs. Nellie M. Hildreth of Fitchburg.

Contract Awarded. At the monthly meeting of the selectmen last Saturday evening the sealed proposals for special repairs on the streets at Westford Center were opened and the contract awarded to H. W. Tarbell of Lowell, the well known landscape gardener, who has planned and executed numerous private and public improvements in various localities in town heretofore, to the satisfaction of the aesthetic taste, as well as the merely practical business end of affairs, as exemplified on the public roads. The town voted $1000 at the annual meeting as a second beginning on these repairs, and according to plans laid out by the county commissioners, there will have to be several more beginnings. Although the decree of the commissioners was to a finish in two years, the town snapped its finger at the decree and resolved we will take our own time. Now don’t let us be so pert about time, and the finish so remote that it will need another coat, like the style of some farming, so moderately, alarmingly slow, can’t finish their planting for ready to hoe.

Memorial Services. Preparations are being made for Memorial and Decoration day. Sunday, May 30, the veterans will attend the Methodist church at Graniteville, after which a light lunch will be served by Commander Wesley O. Hawkes. Barges will be provided and the veterans will visit the several cemeteries and perform the service of decorating the graves of soldiers in the Civil war. Monday, May 31, public memorial services will be held at the town hall, where the line of march to Fairview cemetery will be formed at nine o’clock, headed by the Nashua military band, twenty-five pieces. In the line of march and services at the cemetery the Sons of Veterans, as well as the veterans, will take part. The return march to the hall will be made about 10:30 a.m., where the address of the day, singing, speaking, music by the band and other exercises will take place, after which dinner will be served in the lower hall. At two p.m., the band will give a concert for two hours on the village park. The town at the annual meeting appropriated $150 for memorial day exercises. It is doubtful if for any other similar amount raised and expended by the town, there is as much value returnable to the people.

Centre. The Edward M. Abbot Hose Co., No. 1, held its monthly drill and try-out Tuesday evening. Hydrants opposite George Bennett’s and Edward Fisher’s were tested. Later adjournment was made to the company’s quarters on the Boston road and the annual business meeting was held and the following officers elected for the ensuing year: J. Herbert Fletcher, captain; Edward M. Abbot, 1st lieutenant; Albert W. Heywood, 2nd lieutenant; Leonard W. Wheeler, clerk; Aaron Tuttle, treasurer; Peter Clement, steward; Alec Fisher, W. L. Woods, J. H. Fletcher, standing committee.

At a meeting of the school committee for the towns of Westford, Acton and Littleton, held at the Wm. E. Frost school last week Thursday afternoon, Arthur L. Webber of Littleton was unanimously reelected superintendent for the three towns for the coming year. This will be Mr. Webber’s fourth year of service.

The lineman and electricians have completed the new line to Pine Ridge and now the Westford Water company, Pine Ridge station and Frank E. Miller’s residence are connected by telephone.

Walter J. Sleeper, son of the late Dr. Sleeper, sends interesting letters from his new home with his uncle in Duluth, Minn., to former friends in his native town. He likes his school and surroundings, but withal cherishes a very loyal, boyish interest for former associations in Westford.

At the Congregational church last Sunday morning the communion was observed and Mrs. Katherine M. Gray was admitted into membership. At the evening service Mr. Osgood conducted one of his good praise services from the Alexander hymnal, and Mrs. C. D. Colburn and Miss Grace Lumbert sang a duet. Rev. C. P. Marshall preached an excellent short sermon on “The sacraments of daily life.”

An invitation has been received from Concord grange by the ladies’ degree staff of Westford grange to go to Concord on the evening of June 1, and exemplify the third degree. Some of their members were present at the second meeting in April of this grange and saw the work and want very much to have it repeated at their own grange. The distance is something of an obstacle, but Westford members are beginning to plan for the accomplishment of this plan.

Miss Mary Dunn of West Chelmsford and Miss Althea Smith have been recent guests of Miss Eva Pyne.

Mrs. Gallant and daughter Natalie are spending the rest of this month with their aunt, Mrs. J. W. Pyne.

S. H. Balch went to Manchester Sunday, to visit his son, George M. Balch, who is sick with typhoid fever at the Sacred Heart hospital. He has been very sick, but is improving.

Mrs. Mary E. Fletcher’s many friends are glad that she has practically decided to build on the lot reserved by her at the recent sale of her other real estate, and is busy conferring with Needham & Fletcher, the well-known Littleton contractors.

Annual Guest Night. The hospitality committee and the entertainment committee are perfecting their plans for the annual guest night at the Tadmuck club, Tuesday evening, May 11. It is to be at the Congregational vestry and promises to be a delightful evening for the members and their favored guests. Miss Carolyn M. Foye, who gave such a favorable impression at the entertainment course this past winter, that all who heard her want to hear her again, has been secured for the evening for readings and impersonations. Miss Eva Young, Mrs. Frost’s talented English guest, is to play, and the hospitality committee have the refreshments in their capable charge.

Entertainment. The May-day festival given by the pupils of the Wm. E. Frost school, which has been in course of preparation for some weeks, took place Saturday afternoon at town hall. It was thoroughly enjoyable and successful and reflected great credit upon the principal, Miss Fisher, and her assistant teachers, Misses Cushing, Grant and Platt. The features of the entertainment were a Mother Goose party, a cantata, Lanciers and the pretty Maypole dance. Fully seventy-five children participated in the different exercises.

The stage was beautifully decorated and was so cheerful and gay a background, and with the bright-faced children quite compensated for the rainy weather out-doors, which was the only drawback in the day’s program. There was a background of evergreen and a wealth of bright poppies and daisies, and many hollyhocks stately and tall.

The “old woman who lived in a shoe” was illustrated with an enormous black shoe set in the center of the stage. The youngest children made up this lively group and acted out many of the Mother Goose melodies dear to the hearts of all childhood and never quite forgotten by the grown-ups. These little people took their parts with spirit and precision, after which followed the “Fairies’ carnival.”

The quadrille Lanciers was a unique feature. In a variety of quaint costumes fastened front side backwards, and with masks at the backs of their heads they went through their varaious figures with droll accuracy.

The last feature was the pretty Maypole dance, and the children who took part in it acquitted themselves with great credit. The dainty white costumes of the girls and the gaily-colored streamers of the Maypole wound in and out with spirit and precision made a pretty scene. The following are the children who took part in this Maypole dance: Eleanor Cameron, Chester Burnham, Edward Blodgett, Marjory Seavey, Hilda Isles, Leon Hildreth, Albert Woods, Harold Peterson, Hazel Hartford, Mabel Prescott, Justin Jenkins, Sadie McMaster, Harry Whitney, Pauline Dole, Marden Seavey, Henry Obine, Adrith Carter and Ethel Richardson. Those in the Lanciers: Amy Perkins, Lena Clement, Mabel McDonald, Ethel Mills, Albert Dege, Edward Clement, E. Dane and J. Flagg.

At the close of the entertainment icecream and cake was served in the lower hall and a general social hour enjoyed. The children all had icecreaam and cake given them.

In the evening the Maypole dance was repeated, also the quadrille Lanciers, followed by general dancing. Music was furnished by the grange orchestra and icecream and cake was served at intermission. The committee who assisted the teachers to make this affair the success it was were Mrs. H. V. Hildreth, Mrs. Julian A. Cameron, Miss Mary E. Drew and Miss Eva Young, who so capably presided at the piano.

The proceeds of this event are for the purchase of a new piano for the new school building, which is so well equipped in every other way. Between fifty and sixty dollars after all bills are paid will be realized to start this fund.

Graniteville. Many people from this village attended the May party and social dance given by Cameron circle, C.F. of A., in Abbot’s hall, Forge Village, on last Saturday evening. Wilson’s orchestra of Fitchburg furnished the music for dancing and at intermission refreshments were served. Many were present from North Chelmsford, Ayer, Littleton and surrounding towns, and a very pleasant time was enjoyed by all.

Mr. and Mrs. P. Henry Harrington of this village visited friends in Leominster recently.

The first of the May devotions were held in St. Catherine’s church on last Wednesday evening and the usual large number were in attendance.

The cellar for the new house to be erected by Frank Healy on Broadway is now under way, and the woodwork will be commenced as soon as possible. P. Henry Harrington is the contractor, and the plans and specifications call for a house that will be up-to-date in every particular with all the modern improvements. The site is ideal, being centrally located at the corner of Broadway and Fourth st.

The teachers in the Sargent school are now training the children for a musical entertainment to be given in the near future, the proceeds of which are to go toward a fund to purchase a piano for the school. The entertainment will be given under the personal supervision of Mr. Barnes, the musical instructor of the schools.

A very interesting ball game is scheduled to take place here on Saturday afternoon, when the shop and mill teams will combine and meet the strong Brookside team from the Moore mills. The local club will have a good strong team in the field and a good hot game is expected. Game called at three o’clock.

Forge. The ladies’ sewing circle met with Mrs. Sweatt Thursday afternoon. Although there was not the usual number present, yet a good deal of work was accomplished. A dainty luncheon was served of icecream and cake, and a social hour enjoyed.

James Hosley, a former resident of this village, was buried at Westlawn cemetery Sunday afternoon. He was a member of the 33rd Massachusetts regiment. There were a number of the G.A.R. present. There were prayers at the cemetery and neighbors had an opportunity of viewing the remains.

Mrs. Henry Byron and their children of Marlboro are visiting here parents, Mr. and Mrs. Felix LeClair.

Little Gladys Baker, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Baker, underwent an operation at her home Saturday afternoon for swollen glands, the after affects of the measles. Dr. C. A. Blaney of Westford performed the operation.

Rev. Dr. Sherman of Jamaica Plain conducted services Sunday afternoon. He will also have charge of the services next Sunday, which will commence at four o’clock instead of the usual hour.

Herbert Wadleigh and his brother have purchased a large well-stocked farm in Southbridge and leave here very soon to take possession of it.

Miss Sarah P. Lawrence, one of the oldest, if not the oldest residents of this town, is very ill at her home on Pleasant st., with no hopes of her recovery. Her one desire is to go home. She has one daughter, Miss Grace Lawrence, who is devotedly attached to her mother and has ministered to her every want with unceasing love and care.

John Walsh, a well-known resident, has returned from a six months’ visit to his old home in County Cork, Ireland.

Little Dorothy Mountain has been seriously ill with pneumonia, but is now much better.

Miss Mary Brulee and Frederick Toussignant, two well-known young people of this village were united in marriage in North Chelmsford last Monday by Rev. Fr. Edmund T. Schofield. A reception was held at the home of the groom in this village, Monday evening, to which the immediate relatives and friends were invited. After a short wedding tour Mr. and Mrs. Toussignant will be at home, 35 Bradford st., in this village.

The combing, preparing and sorters of the Abbot Co.’s mills worked overtime Saturday afternoon in order to keep up with the other departments. Two new combs have been purchased and are now on their way.

Miss Miriam Stanley Carleton, Tufts college ’08, was the week-end guest of Miss Marion Sweatt.

Miss Marion Sweatt sprained her ankle quite seriously Saturday evening.

[1] Alice Elvira (Freeman) Palmer was born Feb. 21, 1855 in Colesville, N.Y. She graduated from the Univ. of Michigan in 1876. After teaching for several years she accepted a position as head of the history department at Wellesley College. When Henry F. Durant (1822-1881), founder of the college, died in 1881, she became president of the college. In 1887 she married George Herbert Palmer (1842-1933), a Harvard professor. She died Dec. 6, 1902, in Paris while on sabbatical leave after emergency liver surgery.

[2] Mr. Pickens Address.  A very large audience, including in its number representatives from the three local churches, and the Congregational societies of Westford, Boxboro and South Acton, from the latter twenty-three members, greeted Wm. Pickens, professor of Latin and German at Talladega college in Talladega, Alabama, a most talented southern orator, and one of the most spirited and cultured speakers at the recent “Together campaign” conference in Lowell.

Rev. Paul G. Favor after leading in the devotional exercises, prefaced his introduction of the speaker by an exposition of the present financial embarrassment in the various benevolent organizations of American Congregational churches and made an ardent appeal to every representative of the denomination to set apart 5¼ cents weekly for the liquidation of the present debt, which could be accomplished thereby in comparatively short time.

Professor Pickens fully sustained his reputation as an unsurpassed colored orator, revealing his wealth of eloquence by lucid definition, amplifying illustration, convincing logic and irresistible appeal.  In masterful language he defined education, refuted the popular arguments against negro education, and erected a magnificent bulwark of defense, concluding with a passionate and most magnificent appeal for the hand, heart and head, training of a race that is making against tremendous odds, positive and rapid strides in social, economical, and educational development.

Professor Pickens addressed the Junior Endeavorers of the Congregational church and their friends in the afternoon, telling them with characteristic dialect and intonations, one of the unpublished stories of Uncle Remus as he had heard it when a child oftentimes from the lips of the original character, and presenting a graphic picture of Talladega college, its department, buildings, teachers, students, and aims, and giving an interesting account of his own experience in obtaining an education, as well as one of Mamie Swinger, whom these endeavorers are helping educate, closing with a splendid tribute of praise to New England for the noble work she has achieved in the establishment throughout the south of half a hundred just such schools and colleges as Talladega.

The Littleton Guidon, May 8, 1909.

[3] Charles M. Gardner (1872-1954) of Huntington, Mass., was State Master of the Grange from 1909 to 1913, and from 1913-1947 he was National High Priest of Demeter. He was also editor of the National Grange Monthly News, 1911-1946. He published a significant book on the history of the Grange, The Grange – Friend of the Farmer 1867-1947. Charles M. Gardner State Park in Huntington on the Westfield River, dedicated in 1963, is named for him.

Saturday, May 15, 1909

About Town. At the adjourned meeting of the First Parish Unitarian church held in the parlors of the church last Saturday evening, the meeting was called to order by Abiel J. Abbot, clerk of the parish. Edward Fisher was elected moderator, after which the following persons were elected for the coming year:

Clerk, A. J. Abbot; collector, W. H. H. Burbeck; treasurer, C. O. Prescott; assessors, H. V. Hildreth, W. H. H. Burbeck, Edward Fisher; prudential committee, A. J. Abbot, Edward Fisher, Clara Fisher; music committee, Misses Julia Fletcher, Eva Fletcher, Ruth Fisher; committee on church lot, Capt. S. H. Fletcher, W. H. H. Burbeck; auditor, H. V. Hildreth; church historian, Miss Emily F. Fletcher.

The treasurer’s report showed that receipts and expenditures for the year had balanced, and this old ancient First Parish of Westford is still able to maintain a loyal conservatism and “Hold fast that which is good.” [1 Thessalonians 5:21b]

John Perkins, who has been living of late in the cottage on the Lowell road owned by J. H. Decatur, is making preparations to move into the True A. Bean cottage at Westford Center.

John A. Taylor graduated from the Emerson school of oratory last Thursday in Boston and was selected to give the class oration.

The assessors give notice that they will hold regular monthly meetings the first Wednesday evenings of each month at which time those who think they are taxed too little and others too much can come and be adjusted.

At the next meeting of the grange Thursday evening, May 20, State Lecturer Gardner of Westfield, will be present and give an address. This will be followed by a short and humorous play; it will be open to the public during the lecturer’s hour.

The program for Memorial day is nearly completed, which will include an address by Hon. Herbert E. Fletcher, reading by John A. Taylor, singing by a quartet from Lowell, music by the Nashua military band, dinner in the lower hall after the exercises, band concert on the common from two to four p.m.

At the regular monthly meeting of the selectmen, held May 1, S. L. Taylor was appointed a member of the board of registration of voters, in place of Quincy W. Day, who declined a reappointment, after many years of faithful service. In accepting this appointment it becometh necessary to resign the lucrative office of field driver to which he unanimously fell from the high staging surrounding the office of chairman of the assessors. In this fall no one was injured at all, the payer of taxes or the maker of political matches, neither could it be said as of old, “Alas how have the mighty fallen.” [2 Samuel 1:19, 1:25 and 1:27]

Amos Polley has just finished planting thirty bushel of potatoes, which is good for a thousand dollars income, and to increase the income still more he is now busy sowing an acre of peppers and one-half acre of beets. It beats all in all senses what smart business he is.

The next meeting of the Fortnightly club will be held at the Wright schoolhouse Friday evening, May 28. A wide-awake program to keep sleeply [sic] folks awake, is what you can come prepared to take. Come and be a taker.

The county convention of the W.C.T.U. will be held at the Congregational church Thursday, May 20. The program is grand enough to make you “Lift up your eyes unto the fields, for they are already white unto the harvest.” [John 4:35b]

On and after May 17, the rates of fare on the branch line, Brookside to Westford Centre, will be as follows: Brookside to Westford Centre or reverse, 15¢; Brookside to junction of Lowell road and Westford road, or reverse, 8¢; junction of Lowell road and Westford road to Westford Centre, or reverse, 8¢. Present schedule of car movement remains unchanged.

School Superintendent’s Salary. At a recent meeting of the school committee of Acton, Littleton and Westford, being the towns comprised in forming a district employing a superintendent of schools, Arthur B. Webber was unanimously re-elected superintendent, with an increase in salary of $100. Of this extra Westford will contribute one-half, but just where this extra compensation is coming from is not clear. At the annual town meeting the school committee recommended the same salary, $800 as the allotment of Westford. The finance committee recommended the same sum, and the town unanimously voted it. Now the question really is, have the school committee a right to rescind a vote of the town that the school committee unanimously favored. The school committee have written an appeal to the finance committee, stating that they shall look to the finance committee and selectmen to secure this money. The finance committee reply in substance, that their duties are confined to reviewing the needs of the different departments of the town and recommending to the voters of the town what in the judgment of the finance committee is necessary for each department, and they have no more authority to vote the sum they recommended than the ordinary voter, and the selectmen can only order out of the treasurer what the voters ordered in; and the voters only ordered $800 for salary of superintendent of schools. Now how are you going to order out $850. It can’t come out of the general school appropriation, for that is all spoken for before it even gets into the tax payers’ possession. It seems to be a case of can’t and shortage. Although the amount involved is in some of its bearings dangerously small, yet let it teach thee in the future before you leap to give a try at know it all.

Center. The many friend of Edwin N. C. Barnes, supervisor of music in the schools, will be interested to know that he is to be married on July 8 to Miss Mabel M. Crocker, C. U. ’07, of Braintree. Mr. Barnes will take his bride abroad, where he will study until the re-opening of his studio, Symphony chambers, Boston, in September.

The Thimble club met with Mrs. Charles L. Hildreth Thursday afternoon of last week with every member in attendance. Miss Esther Gardner Fisher [born Feb. 4, 1909, daughter of Edward and Helen I. (Gardner) Fisher] was admitted into membership.

The Donald Camerons, who have spent the winter in Lowell, are at the Westford homestead for the summer. Mrs. Calvert and Mrs. Barnard are also established here for the summer.

Mr. and Mrs. E. J. Whitney are making their recently renovated new home still more attractive by some well-planned grading of the grounds.

Mr. and Mrs. William Pollock on Cold Spring road have recently welcomed a third child, a daughter [Ruth E. Pollock, born May 4], into their home.

A good series of pictures from the Library Art club, entitled “Raphael in the Vatican,” are on exhibition at the library.

Workmen are busy under the direction of the selectmen clearing up the lot between the academy and the Wm. E. Frost school. They are trying to make the one hundred dollars, the sum voted for this purpose at the last town meeting, go as far as it will, but with so many rocks, big and little, in [an] old wall and scattered about, and some gnarled old apple trees to be cut and ditches to fill in the sum is not going to be adequate, but the residents are glad of so much improvement, for since the completion of the schoolhouse it has been an unsightly clutter-hole.

Fletcher & Needham of Littleton are to build for Mrs. Mary E. Fletcher a pretty and comfortable dwelling for herself and daughter. It is to have the modern improvements and work is to be started very soon, with the plan of getting ready to move in before cold weather. Mrs. Fletcher thoroughly investigated the opportunities of buying or renting before undertaking to build, but found the latter course the best.

Mothers’ day was fitting observed at the Congregational church Sunday. This is a new and beautiful observance in the church calendar. Its object is to honor “the best mother that ever lived”—your mother. The time planned for this day is the second Sunday in May and the badge is a white flower, preferably a white carnation. A large bunch of these flowers ornamented the pulpit Sunday and there were other beautiful spring flowers. There was a specially arranged service at the Sunday school hour conducted by the superintendent, Mr. Osgood, and the same thought was carried out at the evening service.

Club Guest Night. The annual gentlemen’s or guests night given by the members of the Tadmuck club proved a most successful and enjoyable occasion. It took place at the Congregational church Tuesday evening, with about one hundred and fifty people in attendance. The church was prettily trimmed with palms, ferns and early spring flowers.

The entertainment consisted of dramatic readings by Mrs. Carolyn Foye Flanders of Boston, and music by Miss Eva Young of London, England, who is Mrs. Helen K. Frost’s guest. Mrs. Flanders, who won the appreciation of all who heard her at the grange course in the winter, fully sustained the happy impression made by her at that time. Mrs. Flanders possess the quick charm and versatility that wins an audience to sympathetic appreciation of her capable efforts. She gave a varied program of twelve numbers, all of which were much enjoyed, particularly her work in monologue and the dainty, graceful impersonation taken from “Madam Butterfly,” which was particularly skillful.

Miss Young is a talented musician and her playing Tuesday evening was very genuinely appreciated. Following is the program:

Piano solos, “Pastorale,” “En courant,” Miss Young; monologues, “Unexpected guests,” “The mourning veil,” “Ann Miller’s cat,” Mrs. Flanders; piano solos, Study, “La hisonpri[?],” Miss Young; readings, “Mrs. Puffer’s silver wedding,” “The saleslady,” “How the professor proposed,” Mrs. Flanders; piano solo, “Polonaise,” Miss Young.

Miss Sarah Whitney Loker, the club’s president, presided over this part of the evening’s formal program with her usual efficiency, after which the gathering adjourned to the vestry and refreshments of delicious icecream and cake were served, and general sociability enjoyed, after which the gathering broke up and the fourth season of work and pleasure of this organization passed into history.

Very welcome guests were Mrs. Gardner W. Prouty, president of the Littleton’s Woman’s club, accompanied by Mrs. Grace Lawrence and Mrs. Albert F. Conant. The committee in charge of this annual social were Mrs. Oscar R. Spalding, Mrs. Julian A. Cameron and Mrs. J. Herbert Fletcher. The hospitality committee who had charge of refreshments were Mrs. Herbert V. Hildreth, Mrs. John P. Wright, Miss Lillian B. Atwood, Mrs. Charles L. Hildreth and Mrs. Edward Fisher.

Grange. At the grange last week Thursday evening there was a good attendance. The faithful secretary, Mrs. Frank C. Wright, was absent from her chair, detained at home with sickness. In several years of service in this capacity this is almost her only absence. Much routine business was transacted. The ladies’ degree staff voted to accept the invitation of Concord grange to go there the first meeting in June and confer the third degree. The subject for the evening was “Some troublesome pests and how to deal with them. To what extent is the orchard crop increased by spraying?” Henry B. Read opened the discussion with a well-written paper. As an extensive orchardist and a graduate of Amherst agricultural college this paper was valuable to his hearers. It was followed by general discussion. There were selections by the grange orchestra, reading by Horace E. Gould and a solo by John S. Greig.

About a dozen patrons from this grange attended the session of the North Middlesex Pomona at Lowell the following day, afternoon and evening session, which was most enjoyable, particularly the address by Rev. L. [Lewis] E. Perry of Ayer on “Lessons from the soil,” and the physical culture talk with Indian club drill by Miss Grace Whittaker of Tyngsboro.

Graniteville. The Brookside mills baseball club visited here on last Saturday afternoon and met with defeat at the hands of the C. G. Sargent team to the tune of 20 to 13. The game was replete with heavy hitting on both sides, and proved to be very interesting in spite of the one-sided score. Many errors were made by both sides, which kept the large crowd guessing as to the final outcome. At the end of the seventh inning only one run separated the two teams, but the locals came back strong in the eighth, scoring nine runs by strong batting and putting the game on ice. Joe Howath of the shop team made his debut here as a pitcher and judging from his work of Saturday, he appears to have “the goods.” The game was well attended, the fair sex being out in force. Umpire, Harry Hartford of Westford.

The funeral of Joseph Talamini, the Italian who was found drowned in the canal in Forge Village on last Saturday morning, took place from the rooms of Undertaker J. A. Healy in this village on Sunday afternoon at one o’clock. His sister came from Newark, N.J., and took charge of the body. Burial was in a lot set apart in St. Catherine’s cemetery. The bearers were Joseph Riney, Edward Riney, D. W. Harring, R. J. Hemen.

The ladies’ aid society of the M.E. church met with Mrs. W. O. Hawkes on last Thursday afternoon.

Edward Quinn of Boston visited friends in this village last week.

T. E. Freeman of Lexington, a former principal of Sargent school, has been a recent visitor in this village.

Fred Longbottom of Arlington Heights has been a recent guest of Mr. and Mrs. O. A. Nelson in this village.

May devotions were held in St. Catherine’s church on last Wednesday evening and the usual large number were in attendance.

The members of the A. R. Choate hose company, No. 2, were out for practice duty on last Tuesday evening and tried the pressure of several of the hydrants.

The members of Cameron circle, C.F. of A., held a very interesting meeting in their rooms on last Tuesday evening. Several propositions were received and two candidates initiated into membership of the order.

Forge. Miss Florence Wadleigh was pleasantly surprised at home Saturday evening by a large number of her friends, who called upon her, and presented her with a valuable gold locket. Lillian Hunt, a little miss of five years, prettily dressed in blue silk muslin, made the presentation speech, and gave the present into the hands of Miss Florence. Although very much surprised, she thanked the kind friends in a few well-chosen words. The usual games were played, then a fine musical program. Refreshments were served, Miss Sweatt assisting Mrs. Wadleigh in serving.

A very pretty wedding took place Tuesday morning at St. Catherine’s church, when Miss Alma Schiltz, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ovide Schiltz, was united in marriage to Hector Garcieu, son of Mrs. Joseph Lessiere. Ovide Schiltz, father of the bride, and Joseph Lessiere, step-father of the bridegroom, were the witnesses. The bride wore white silk, and white hat, and carried white pinks. A wedding breakfast was served at the bride’s home, 12 Pleasant st., only the immediate family being present. The young couple left for Canada on the noon train, for a brief trip.

Word has been received here from Mr. and Mrs. John Pulsifer, who left early in April for Lindsay, Cal. Mr. Pulsifer writes that the haying season is just over. They intend to settle there.

Mrs. John Edwards, who has been very sick for the last two weeks, can now sit up for a few minutes each day.

Mr. Wadleigh and family moved to Southbridge Wednesday, where he will engage in agricultural pursuits.

Death. Mrs. Sarah Prescott Lawrence, widow of the late David P. Lawrence, died at her late home on [62] Pleasant st., Monday morning, at the advanced age of 95 years, 8 months and 17 days. She leaves to mourn her loss an only daughter, Miss Grace Lawrence.

Mrs. Lawrence was born in Forge Village and was one of nine children. Her parents were Capt. Abram and Olive Adams Prescott. In her early life she taught school and for a few years she was teacher of sewing at the city farm of Lowell. In August 1853 she married David Prescott Lawrence and resided in Lowell for some years; then they came back to Forge Village, where they spent the remainder of their lives. Everyone who knew her was drawn to her by strong ties of affection. She was an invalid for many years, but always showed a great deal of interest in all those about her, both near and dear friends and neighbors, always ready to aid those in need, both materially and sympathetically. She was a great reader and enjoyed it until a few weeks before her death. It was a pleasure to converse with her for she was so well informed on the leading topics of the day, and more especially her religious convictions were so broad and inspiring that one went from her presence the better for having known her.

Mrs. Lawrence and her daughter had lived together in that beautiful unity of spirit that made the home life very dear to them both, and for many years she had been ready for that one clear call when she would see her pilot face to face.

The funeral services were held at her home Wednesday afternoon, May 12. Rev. Mr. Moulton, formerly Unitarian minister of Westford, but now of Stow, an old friend of the family, officiated and spoke words of comfort to the daughter and the friends. A quartet, Mrs. David Greig, Mrs. Seavey, Mr. Boynton, John Greig, sang two selections, “Lead kindly light,” and “The Christian’s good-night.”

The bearers were, Alvin Bennett, Geo. Henry Prescott, W. E. Parsons, and Richard D. Prescott. The flowers were very beautiful, tokens of love and respect from the relatives and neighbors, fitting emblems of the beautiful spirit of the one who has now “crossed the bar,” [1] and entered the beyond where many are waiting. Burial was in Westlawn cemetery.

[1] [1] This phrase and the reference given above of “seeing her pilot face to face” are often used in obituaries of mariners, where crossing the sandbar, often found across the outlets of rivers and harbors, signified leaving the safety of the harbor for the unknown of death. Both phrases are from Alfred Lord Tennyson’s (1809-1892) 1889 poem “Crossing the Bar,” which he asked to have put at the end of all collections of his poems.

Saturday, May 22, 1909

About Town. [pg. 1] All 15-cent fare folks on the electric road are invited to a public hearing before the railroad commissioners in Boston Tuesday, May 25, at two o’clock. Try and get there even if it does cost you fifteen cents to ride two miles, and only a little more than that to ride the other twenty-three to Boston.

The selectmen have decided that they are unable financially or morally to pay the fifty dollars increase in school superintendent’s salary recently voted by the school committee.

The railroad inspectors went over the Stony Brook road Thursday.

Bids for carrying the mail from Westford station to Westford Center have been re-opened. For particulars apply to postmaster, Capt. S. H. Fletcher.

Convention. The W.C.T.U. of Middlesex county met at the Congregational church Thursday, May 13. The meeting was called to order at ten a.m., with an address of welcome by Mrs. Jennie Hildreth, president of the Westford W.C.T.U., followed by the greetings from the church by Rev. C. P. Marshall; medal contests, Mrs. A. D. Phipps; railroad work, Mrs. J. E. Alger; evangelistic, Mrs. W. M. Lisle; press, Mrs. W. E. Birdsall. These reports were followed by a solo by Mrs. Armand [wife of the Methodist pastor] of Graniteville; at 11:45 memorial for Mrs. Saxe, by Mrs. F. A. Stone.

The afternoon meeting opened with a solo by Mrs. Charles D. Colburn followed by the discussion of “The local union, its aims,” Mrs. Clara A. Hogan; “Opportunities and possibilities,” Mrs. J. E. Case; “Personal obligation,” Mrs. E. S. Norton; solo, Mrs. Armand. At three an address was given by Dr. N. Louise Rand; subject, “The patent medicine problem.” This was followed by a consideration of “Dropped stitches taken up;” closing hymn, “Blest be the tie.”

The day was exceptional for drawing a large gathering and it proved to be one of the drawing features. The rest of the drawing features was the literary program which was temptingly interesting. The ladies of the local union gathered themselves proud in contributing a tempting dinner as another interesting feature of the exercises of the day, so bountiful and good that everybody was tempted. No one cared to resist temptation in these sunny environments. All these happily blending exercises contributed “To provoke each other unto good works.” [1]

Forge. The teachers of Cameron school held a very successful dancing party in Abbot’s hall last Friday evening. A large number were present from North Chelmsford, Littleton and Graniteville. Icecream and cake were served during intermission. Music was furnished by Miss Sarah Precious, piano and James H. Brown, violin. Quite a sum of money was realized which will be used for purchasing pictures for the school. The following teachers were in charge of the affair: Miss Letitia N. Ward, manager, Miss Abbie M. Blaisdell, Miss Mary A. Garvey, Miss Jantzen, assistants.

John Britko, a Pole, while at work in Abbot’s mills last Saturday afternoon had the first finger of his right hand cut off at the second joint. He was taken to his home in Graniteville, where Dr. O. V. Wells dressed the injured member.

The Iroquois of Lowell played the Forge Village Lions on the home grounds last Saturday afternoon and were defeated by the score of 10 to 4. The features of the game were the excellent battery work of the Spinner brothers and the heavy hitting of Fred Clement. Albert Turner, a new member, put up a fine game on first base and there was fine fielding by Dumont.

Sunday school will commence at St. Andrew’s Mission Sunday afternoon at 3:30. Services will be at 4:30, the usual hour, and will be conducted by Rev. T. L. Fisher, the pastor.

Abbot & Co. are erecting three double houses on Pond St. P. H. Harrington of Graniteville has the contract for carpenter work.

The ladies’ sewing circle met Thursday afternoon, with Mrs. Geo. L. Sanborn. A large number were present.

Mrs. Geo. Cougle is very sick with acute rheumatism and tonsillitis. Dr. Cyril A. Blaney is attending her.

Mrs. Clarence Handy of Worcester was the guest of her aunt, Miss Ellen Comey, the past week.

Fennimore Morton has moved into the house vacated by Herbert Wadleigh.

About Town. [pg. 2] Hiram Dane gave a party and reception last week Thursday evening at his home on the Dunstable road, in honor of his daughter, Miss Josie Dane, who has recently returned from California, where she has been for several years. She will spend the summer in town. About twenty-five or thirty were registered in the reception party. The invited served music for refreshments, the receiver served food for refreshments, and thus was dual man provided for.

Rev. George H. Young, a former pastor of the Unitarian church [1866-72], was seriously injured in Boston while walking on the sidewalk, by being knocked down and run over by an auto cab. Several ribs were broken, back injured and a general derangement of the plan, by which the human body conducts business, to the extent that he was picked up in an unconscious condition. The accident was caused by the chauffeur using the wrong lever.

Henry Fletcher of Greenfield was in town recently visiting relatives and friends. He will long be remembered by the older citizens as the sexton of the Unitarian church, “In the days of auld lang syne.” Those were the days when the old bell in the ancient belfry rang a ring with vim, chiming forth like a Sabbath hymn, and it was “him” who carried about with him the understanding how to do it. This peculiar tact of knowing just how is not contagious; it has had no previous, it has had no since.

James H. O’Brien on the Stony Brook road, while he has been attending to some light work on the farm since his recent illness, is gradually having a relapse, and present indications seem to be forebodings of another surgical operation. Mary, the oldest girl, is still suffering from internal trouble in both ears, and by advice of medical authority has changed environments.

Mrs. Theodore H. Hamblett at Brookside celebrated her eighty-third year of sunrise and sunset last Saturday. These long years are induced to some degree in harmony with the summing up of life by the poet:

He liveth long who liveth well,
All else is life but flung away;
He liveth longest who can tell
Of true things truly done each day. [2]

Walter J. Merritt has bought the True A. Bean place on Depot st. This is to serve as a tenement for his hired help.

With peas budded to blow, sweet corn ready to hoe, potatoes so you can see the row and rye waving for some one to mow, and planting not half through, how pleasantly aggravating the thought frequently expressed “Oh, why so slow,” some of you farmers down around in the valley where the Stony Brook crooks to clear itself of the overhanging skunk cubbage [sic, cabbage?].

John A. Taylor has been and is now looking over the wheat fields in Ohio to see what there is to harvest.

Fares Raised. We are here in Westford now being treated to an equity in burden-bearing, wherein the inhabitants in one village ride four miles for five cents, and another village rides two and one-half miles for fifteen cents. (I should say that is the price, but they don’t ride.) Our forefathers threw the tea overboard in Boston harbor because of unjust taxation. That tax was not as discriminating or unjust as the present tax, carfare rate of fifteen cents from Westford to Brookside, only two and one-half miles. It is doubtful if such unjustifiable discrimination can be paralleled in the history of railroading in the United State of America, and if we have got left even a mild and diluted remnant of the grit of our forefathers we will rise and occupy our innate rights and if we can’t find any tea to throw overboard, we can at least find out who is going to be Jonah [Jonah 1:17] and who is going to be whale, all the time.

The town has been domineeringly insulted by not being consulted in changes long enough. Car service is discontinued and tariff rates rise in the twinkling of your eyes. When any one with half the financial wisdom of the prodigal son [Luke 15:11-32] (and that wasn’t much) could easily discern that there was no way the revenue of the road could be increased so much, and preserve honor and peace, as by a six-cent fare to all patrons of the road. Who ever heard in all the annals of finance of such a scheme to increase revenues. But halt, you have played this game once too much. Your blundersome, cumbersome, extravagant road-building debt is not all going to be collected in 15-cent fares out of the citizens of Westford, who would have saved you thousands of dollars if you had taken their advice in building the road. Yes, halt it is, and the selectmen have petitioned the railroad commissioners for a hearing. If they decide that a discriminating fare is the way to equalize burdens, then we shall all feel at least better towards each other, you in running empty cars, and the town in having tried to remove the bars.

Center. The children and young people in the village are reminded that the old law about riding bicycles on the sidewalks is not obsolete. Bicycles are not used as much as formerly and consequently the old rule is not brought to public attention as much, but the pedestrian’s rights to the sidewalks come first and the bicyclists’ second. When the swift, silent steeds come up from behind an aged person, or one a little deaf may not happen to dodge in the direction expected, then there is trouble. A cheerful acquiescence to the spirit rather than the letter of the law is what the older people would appreciate.

Bertram E. Cass of Boston is spending two weeks at the home of his sister, Mrs. A. H. Sutherland.

Miss Jeanette Sutherland and her friend, Miss Brown, were over Sunday guests of her grandparents [parents, per 1900 census] Mr. and Mrs. William Sutherland.

A farmers’ institute will be held by Middlesex North Pomona grange at Odd Fellows’ hall, Bridge st., Lowell, Friday, June 4, at 7:30 p.m. This will be an open meeting and a large attendance is desired. Prof. F. C. Sears, professor of pomology [science of fruits and fruit growing] at Massachusetts Agricultural college at Amherst, will give his lecture on “Spraying materials and apparatus.”

As a revenue producer the action of the Lowell and Fitchburg electric railroad in raising the fare between Westford and Brookside to fifteen cents each way is a distinct failure, as an almost complete boycott of the cars prevails. There is a full revival of the old-time methods of leaving town—a procession of pedestrians and carriages to and from Westford depot. The railroad commissioners have granted a hearing for Tuesday, May 25, when it is up to the citizens to go to Boston and show that such a raise of fare is a prohibitory rate and unjustifiable.

Black bases, red bodies and white caps make our village hydrants with their new coat of paint, conspicuous, to say the least.

Sunday evening Rec. C. P. Marshall continued his series of sermons on “The sacraments of life,” taking play and recreation as the special topics, giving a practical and sensible talk.

Rev. C. P. Marshall and Mr. and Mrs. L. W. Wheeler attended the session of the Massachusetts Association of Congregational churches at Park st. church, Boston, on Wednesday.

We were glad to welcome at church Sunday as out-of-town guests Miss Abbie Cutter of Littleton, visiting her aunt, Mrs. J. B. Fletcher; Miss Maria Bunce, visiting her brother, Augustus Bunce; Miss Florence Joliffe, visiting at the Osgoods; and Miss Janet Scott visiting her sister, Mrs. John Wilson.

The ladies’ degree staff of Westford grange rehearsed Monday evening, preparatory to their visit to Concord grange June 1, where they are to confer the third degree upon a class of candidates.

Some are expecting to attend the second annual convention of the Lowell Christian Endeavor union at the First Congregational church, Lowell, Saturday, May 22. Sessions at 2:30 and seven p.m.

There are rumors of a conveyance of the real estate near the Congregational church, belonging to H. O. Keyes, to the Ayer home for children in Lowell, they to use the present dwelling as a cook-house and the old academy as a dormitory in the summer. This will remove old landmarks, the blacksmith and harness shops, etc.

The Middlesex County convention of the W.C.T.U. was held at the Congregational church, Thursday and was a well-attended and profitable session.

“Nicholas Nickleby”, a much-prized pet parrot that has been in the Hiram Whitney family for many years, escaped from its care-taker, Miss Sarah Rogers, housekeeper for H. M. Wright, Saturday. Consternation reigned in the neighborhood for a while and a general out-turn of the people in the vicinage resulted after a while in finding the valuable bird on the Fisher lawn, where Miss Rogers easily captured it.

Graniteville. Thursday, May 20, being the feast of the Ascension, mass was celebrated in St. Catherine’s church in the morning at 7:30 o’clock. In the evening the May devotions were held in the same church at the usual hour.

The amateur farmers in this vicinity have now commenced operations and intend to show a good display of garden truck during the coming summer. The crops last season were very small owing to the unusually dry weather, but better results are predicted for this year.

Court Graniteville, F. of A., held its regular meeting on last Thursday night.

Mrs. Noah P. Shipley of Tyngsboro and Mrs. Robert Clark of Manchester, N.H., were recent guests of Mr. and Mrs. A. R. Choate in this village.

Miss Inez George, the well known vocalist, who formerly resided here, but who is now located in Portland, Me., with her parents visited friends in this village this week.

Miss Blanche Loftus of Lowell has been a recent visitor here.

An Enjoyable Evening. The many friends of Miss Josie Dane, who has been absent in California for the past six years, assembled at her home in North Westford on last Thursday evening, the occasion being the nature of a welcome home party. Miss Dane is extremely popular in this locality and her many former schoolmates and friends were very much pleased for the opportunity to extend the glad hand of welcome, and spend the evening in renewing old friendship and early reminiscences of the happy days spent at her girlhood home near Long-Sought-For pond. The merry party that numbered over forty spent the evening very pleasantly in fun, music and song, and all present entered into the spirit of the affair as though it were one large family gathering instead of a mutual meeting of friends, some of whom had not seen each other for many years. Guests were present from Lowell, Nashua, Dunstable and Tyngsboro, besides those present in the immediate vicinity.

Both Miss Dane and her genial father, Hiram Dane, kept everyone interested at all times and the whole affair was very enjoyable. During the evening refreshments were served, and before the departure of the guests “Auld lang syne” was sung by the entire company.

Baseball. The Iola baseball club of Middlesex visited here on last Saturday afternoon and met with defeat at the hands of the Graniteville Blues by the score of 9 to 1. The game was well played throughout, and the locals won mainly through their ability to bat hard when hits meant runs. Tom McCarthy was on the firing line for the Blues and was well supported behind the bat by Ledwith, whose timely hitting was a factor in scoring many of the runs for the winning side. The Graniteville boys presented a good strong lineup on last Saturday, and as it is the intention of the management to keep the present team intact as far as possible, some interesting games are looked for in the Stony Brook league, of which the Graniteville Blues are a part. As the schedule of games in this league has not been made out as yet, it is not known at the present writing just who the local club will have for opponents this Saturday, although a game is certain on the home grounds here, with possibly some team from Lowell. Harry Hartford of Westford umpired last Saturday and gave general satisfaction.

About Town. [p. 5] The Edwin E. Heywood farm on the Chamberlain road was sold Thursday afternoon at auction to Maj. Edward J. Noyes of Lowell for $3050. The purchaser will be remembered as a former city marshal of Lowell, and is at present a corporate detective. It is also rumored that he purchased the farm for ex-police officer James A. Hadley, who has a financial interest in the place.

At a meeting of the grange Thursday evening a resolution was unanimously passed setting forth the grievances and injustice of the discrimination in the recent 15-cent raise in fare from Westford to Brookside, and unreliable car service even at that bill of fare on the Lowell and Fitchburg railway. Said resolution is to be presented at the hearing before the railroad commissioners next Tuesday and Rev. Charles P. Marshall was chosen to represent the grange.

A Jersey calf belonging to William Pollock was killed by a freight train on the Stony Brook road near Westford station, Wednesday morning. Game warden, Mills of Ayer, was called to see if it was not a deer. If it had been it might be dear work for the railroad, on account of the law against killing deer, don’t you know.

The Maurice Dailey farm was sold at auction Tuesday to C. H. Hinckley of Lowell for $900. It is to be fitted up and renovated for a summer resort. The farm is on the Tyngsboro road near the town line and the last farm in town but one going towards Tyngsboro.

George A. Kimball of Parkerville has an acre of field corn up and it has been up for some time. So there now, you farmers in the Stony Brook valley are not the whole show and go, after all.

The ballgame last Saturday on the ball grounds at Westford station between Westford academy and Chelmsford high school was won by the latter by a score of 4 to 3, a close game and exciting work. The Westford A.A. team will open the season with a game on the above field, on Decoration day, Monday, May 31. The game will be called in season to close for the exercises of Decoration day at the town hall. Just who they will be matched up against is not quite clear at present. You know we have been having lots of cloudy weather.

Eugene Ward as collector of milk for A. G. Boynton, has been awarded leave of absence, not returnable, and Walter Coney of Germany sometime during the ancestral line of ascent, has been appointed the reins of collectorship.

[1] Probably a corruption of Hebrews 10:24: “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works.” KJV

[2] These words are from the hymn “He Liveth Long Who Liveth Well” written by the Scotsman Horatius Bonar (1808-1889) in 1861 with music by George J. Elvey (1816-1893). Author of over 600 hymns, Bonar has been referred to as “the prince of Scottish hymn writers.”

Saturday, May 29, 1909

About Town. [p. 1] S. L. Taylor had peas in blossom May 27. This means peas for dinner June 10, two days earlier than e’er before and all those farmers in the Stony Brook valley who have been in this contest and are now beaten, he invites to dine on green peas on the above date. But don’t be too hungry, for he is likely to have more sympathy for you than peas. Get ready for next spring’s contest.

The early morning feature of Memorial day will be a ball game at railroad park near Westford station between the Westford team and the Mathews of Lowell, who have the reputation of being the fastest team in this vicinity, and the Westford boys have got to get one of their old-time movements with a high and elastic spring to it, to get round before the experienced from Lowell do. The game will be called at nine a.m., and finish in season for the exercises at the hall.

The Middlesex Northwest conference of Unitarian and other Christian churches will hold its spring meeting with the old historic church in Chelmsford Wednesday, June 2. The morning address will be given by Prof. Chandler of Boston on “Some economic problems of the country church.”

The school committee have appointed John A. Taylor to take the school census.

The Railroad Hearing. The selectmen, town counsel and a liberal number of representative citizens of the town attended the hearing in Boston before the railroad commissioners last Tuesday, in a remonstrance against the rise in fare from Westford to Brookside. Edward Fisher, counsel for the town, opened the case for the remonstrants, and gave a clear and comprehensive statement of the history of the electric railway company from its franchise until the present time. From this review it appears that the railway company have done as they pleased; they have kept promises and broken promises and changed plans as it suited them, not as it suited the town. The main line was planned to go through Westford Center. This they failed to fulfill. Then down the Groton road let us go, and we will take care of Westford Center by building a spur from Graniteville and another spur from the Groton road to Brookside. This they failed to fulfill. What next? Let us out of the spur from Graniteville up to the center and we will take care of you by extending the spur from Brookside up to the center. And the town let them off, and after a good many efforts at lassoing them they were finally tamed into a manageable condition and reluctantly fulfilled this last agreement, and to pay the citizens of Westford for enforcing this agreement they raise the fare to a point that is higher than any thing in the state; hence this hearing to remonstrate.

Lawyer Brooks opened for the company and admitted that a 15-cent fare was exorbitant, but that it was done as an experiment to show that the company could not run either on a 5-cent, 10-cent or 15-cent fare to Westford and live. But the spur line as a whole he did not show and now as ever Brookside is considered as a terminal. He further stated that the company was willing to return to a 10-cent fare and perhaps lower, but the company could not consider a 6-cent fare on the whole line. It would not be just to the mill help in the villages, as a 5-cent fare is their opportunity for pleasure and recreation.

In so far as the company is unable to pay its fixed charges they have the sympathy of all patrons of the branch line and elsewhere, and this misfortune is not to be sneeringly charged against them in so far as this cripples them in efficiency. But this doesn’t seem to be a valid excuse for taxing the citizens of Westford a fare in excess treble what it is on any other part of the line, or in the state for distance, nor does it excuse discourteous treatment, or refusing a free and open hearing before the citizens, rather than this spirit to take your 15-cent fare on a twenty-four hours’ notice. Why single out the citizens of Westford? This question has been asked many times and never answered. Are we such a high and mighty people, or so isolated that the outside world have to be charged fifteen cents to get a peep at us? It is true we are worth looking at even at that price of admission.

Forge. Owing to the rain Saturday afternoon the game between the Forge Village Lions and the Iolas of Middlesex was called off.

Memorial exercises were held at Cameron school Friday as follows: Miss Jantzen’s rooms at 1:30 p.m., Miss Blaisdell’s from 1:30 to two; Miss Ward’s and Miss Garvey’s, united, from two to 2:30, after which a line of march was formed to Westlawn cemetery where the graves of soldiers were decorated.

Dr. and Mrs. Raddin of Chelsea were in town Sunday at Mr. Willett’s cottage, which they have engaged for the season.

The members of the L.S.C. met with Mrs. R. D. Prescott Thursday afternoon. Much work was accomplished and Mrs. Prescott served a lunch of icecream and cake, after which a short time was spent in a pleasant social.

Loyal Self Help lodge, I.O.O.F., M.U., will attend the memorial services of Loyal Nashobah lodge in Littleton Sunday, May 30. The barge will leave the square at one o’clock. Members who would like to attend are requested to be on time so that no delay will be made in starting.

Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Harlow and son, returning from Riverside, Cal., where they spent the winter, to their home Ft. Fairfield, Me., made a short call on his cousin, W. E. Parsons, Monday. Mr. Harlow has purchased a large orange grove in Riverside and intends returning as soon as he disposes of his farm at Ft. Fairfield, liking the warm and genial climate of California better than the cold one of Aroostook county.

Alvin Bennett and sister, Mrs. Mary Drake, started Tuesday for Weyauwega, Wis., for a visit to his old home.

Mrs. A. W. Carkin is confined to the house with a severe attack of muscular rheumatism.

Mrs. James Berry and daughter, Mrs. George Nussy, and Mrs. Walter Teele of Lawrence were calling upon old acquaintances Wednesday night.

About Town. [p. 2] John A. Taylor, who was looking over the wheat fields of Ohio, last week, has returned home. He reports the harvest prospects good and secured his prospective share, having accepted the position of instructor of public speaking at Miami university, Oxford, Ohio. This is the oldest college west of the Allegheny mountains. It will celebrate its one hundredth anniversary in June.

A. H. Reed has moved from Cambridge into the O’Brien cottage on the Providence road. He is a relative of C. A. Reed, near Harmon’s corner. He has several children, the oldest boy is ill with tuberculosis.

The Enterprise club held its usual Sunday evening meeting in the vestry of the Unitarian church. Although the number present was based on the principle of “Where two or three are gathered together,”[Matthew 18:20] the quality of the meeting was grandly large and inspiring. The subject of the evening was “Books.” Miss Gertrude Hamlin read a well poised and original paper on the value of good books, with special emphasis on the bible. Rev. B. H. Bailey encouragingly alluded to the variety of knowledge that could be derived from studying the bible, history, poetry, government, religion. Short and appropriate quotations were read by Miss May Balch, Miss Gertrude Fletcher, Miss Grace Bennett, Miss Mabel Miller, Mrs. H. B. Hall and Frank Johnson.

Middlesex North Pomona grange will hold a farmers’ institute, Friday evening, June 4, at Odd Fellows’ hall, Bridge st., Lowell. The address will be given by Prof. Sears of Amherst agricultural college, subject, “Spraying fruit trees; best apparatus and method.” The lecture will be illustrated and demonstrated. Wide open to the public.

Heavy frosts were reported in various parts of the town Tuesday night, mostly in the low lands in the south and west. The shock was not felt in the Stony Brook valley, and those early peas and sweet corn, still continue to wave “O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.” [1]

Much to the regret of all, Mrs. Bryant the organist at the Unitarian church, resigned her position last Sunday. She has proved an exceptionally affable choir director and organist. She resigns this position on account of changing her residence from Lowell to Chicago.

A successful food sale, strawberry and other temptations was held at the house of Mrs. Abiel J. Abbot, Thursday afternoon. The proceeds go towards repairs and improvements on the interior of the Unitarian church.

A Large Order. Our over-busy citizen Daniel H. Sheehan is double-decked busy just at present, having received an order from the state for 15,000,000 yards of burlap in behalf of the gypsy moth industry. This seems like a large order for the size of a one-horse water power and a one-man power. In addition to this Mr. Sheehan has come in possession for debt of 19,000 acres of land in Maine, covered with timber, trout brooks, ponds and lakes, band sawmills. Just at present he is busy tearing down the old wooden mill on Tadmuck brook, which was erected over forty years ago by Joshua Decatur. The building has neither been shingled, painted, whitewashed or carpeted since it was built. For all this it didn’t leak enough last summer to raise good crops.

This old building has been occupied for various industries by various parties; first by the owner as a carpenter shop, next by Waldron Bros. of Nelson, N.H., for a wheel-wright shop, followed by James Barney of North Chelmsford, who continued the wheel industry. There being too much wheeling for the amount of water-wheeling power to make wheels with, he departed on a wheel for elsewhere. For a few years Hamblett & Brown of Brookside and West Chelmsford opened it as a studio for painting, confined mostly to wagons, sleighs and wheel-barrows, then True A. Bean of Westford believed there was money in wheels and he started in to demonstrate it, but he didn’t make enough to—well, never mind, guess at it. After a lapse of useful idleness for a season, Fisher & Fifield started in to make brackets, and continued to do so without any racket, until the firm was dissolved by an active law of nature with cemetery proceedings.

The present owner, Mr. Sheehan, is about to make extensive improvements in the water power; a new cement dam eight feet high, with flowage back to Main st. So get off your huckleberry bushes and cranberry tops before the deluge of modern manufactory leaveth not even a green twig for a dove, as in the ancient flood [Genesis 8:10-11]. The land to be moistened by this enterprise includes land of John Haley, C. R. P. Decatur and Charles E. Miller.

Center. The J. V. Fletcher library will not be open Sunday noon as usual. Both churches being closed, it seemed unnecessary.

Married in New York, April 18, J. S. Nathan and Mrs. Mary Meldrum. Mr. Nathan is Mrs. J. Henry Colburn’s father.

Miss Elizabeth Cushing of the Frost school had for a guest on Sunday her father, Charles D. Cushing of Southboro.

George M. Balch is at his father’s home, completing the tedious convalescence from typhoid, with which he was so ill in Manchester.

Cyrus Hosmer of Wakefield has been a visitor in town this past week, spending part of the time with his granddaughter, Mrs. W. J. Merritt, and the latter part with his daughter, Mrs. W. M. Wright.

Robert S. Young from Arlington has taken up his permanent residence with Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Merritt.

Roadmaster Frank E. Miller, and his men have, during the week, been putting the village streets in fine order previous to Memorial day.

Miss Perham at the Luce homestead is taking a week’s vacation, and Mrs. Jane Brow is staying with Miss Luce during her absence.

Additional notices have been posted calling for bids for carrying the mail between Westford depot and the center of the town. Only one was received previously and that considered too high for consideration.

Mrs. Donald M. Cameron entertained a group of Lowell friends with whist at her home Thursday afternoon of last week.

At a meeting of the school board held at the town hall, Friday evening, May 21, the following teachers were elected for next year for the center: Wm. E. Frost school, Miss Ruth Fisher, principal, Miss M. L. Grant and Miss Elizabeth Cushing; assistant at the high school, Miss Gertrude E. Bartlett; teacher of drawing, Mr. Brackett; supervisor of music, Miss Mollie Raynes of Chelmsford.

Rev. C. P. Marshall’s subject for the morning discourse at the Congregational church Sunday morning was on “Prayer,” and in the evening “What it means to be a Christian,” with good attendance at both services. At the Wednesday evening service Miss S. W. Loker lead the meeting, with “Missionary heroes of the far north,” for a subject, speaking specially of missionary work in Alaska. The ladies missionary society of this church met with Mrs. John B. Fletcher Thursday afternoon with a good attendance.

Memorial Exercises. The union memorial service will be held with the church at Graniteville, Sunday. All the churches in town will unite in this service and Rev. Philip Armand, pastor of the Graniteville church, will deliver the sermon. The choirs of our two village churches are practicing to make the musical part of the service one of excellence. Revs. B. H. Bailey and C. P. Marshall will have part in the conduct of the service.

Monday the veterans and Sons of Veterans will assemble at the town hall and march to Fairview cemetery accompanied by the Nashua military band of twenty-five pieces.

The program for the exercises at the town hall promises to be exceedingly good. The Arian quartet of Lowell, which has sung so acceptably at former occasions of this kind, has been engaged. This well-known quartet is as follows; Miss Lillian Salmon soprano; Harry Hopkins, tenor; Mrs. F. D. Roberts, contralto; James E. Donelly, bass. Hon. Herbert Fletcher will deliver the address and John A. Taylor will read, and there will be selections by the band.

Dinner will be served in the lower hall at noon, at the conclusion of the exercises, in charge of caterer, Fred A. Smith, with the following menu: sirloin roast beef, boiled ham, boiled tongue, mashed potatoes, peas, rolls, doughnuts, cheese, fancy pies, cake, coffee, icecream and fruit.

In the afternoon the Nashua military band will give a concert on the common from two to four.

Grange. The meeting of the grange at the town hall last week Thursday evening was one of profit and pleasure, with its large attendance and good program.

Charles M. Gardner, lecturer of the Massachusetts state grange and member of the legislature, was the speaker of the evening. He has won many friends in this grange and his address Thursday evening was full of interest and good sense to his hearers. It was bright and optimistic to a degree, and dwelt upon the unity of the order and its mission of helpfulness and hopefulness to old and young members alike. A hearty vote of thanks was extended to Mr. Gardner at the close of the evening for his excellent address.

The grange orchestra gave some good selections which were heartily encored, and there were songs by E. G. Boynton and Mrs. John McIntosh. A farce which was given by the ladies during the winter at the Congregational vestry was repeated by special request. It was bright and witty, and pointed an excellent lesson for accuracy in repeating statements. The name of the play was “How the story grew,” and was presented by the following cast: Mrs. David L. Greig, Mrs. Alvin Nelson, Mrs. Wm. A. Woodward, Mrs. Joseph E. Knight, Mrs. L. W. Wheeler, Miss Elizabeth Cushing and Miss Martha Grant.

At the business session W. M. Wright and E. G. Boynton were appointed a committee of two to make arrangements for the transportation of the ladies’ degree staff to go to Concord Tuesday evening, June 1.

Resolutions were drawn up to be presented at the street railway hearing the following Tuesday in Boston, and Rev. C. P. Marshall was appointed to represent the two hundred members of the grange at that hearing. Mrs. John Feeney was appointed chairman of the feast committee for children’s night, June 3.

Graniteville. The repair work on Broadway, under the supervision of contractor J. A. Healy, is now progressing rapidly, and when finished will be a source of pleasure to the village and a credit to the town.

Entertainment. The children of the Sargent school gave that pleasing cantata entitled “The carnival of flowers,” in the M. E. church on Tuesday evening and the entertainment met with great success. The children all did finely which reflects great credit on the unfailing efforts of the teachers in charge. The whole affair was given under the personal supervision of Edwin N. C. Barnes, the musical instructor in the school, Miss E. Marion Sweatt, accompanist. A special attraction and one that proved to be very pleasing was the excellent violin selections given by Gunnar A. G. Ekman of Boston. Quite a neat sum was realized on this affair and the money is to be used toward a fund with which to buy a piano for the school building. The following teachers had charge of the children in Tuesday night’s performance: Gerald Decatur, Miss Issie Parker, Miss M. A. Dunn.

Death. Miss T. Judith S. Mattson, a well known young woman of this village, died at her home in West Graniteville on Friday night, May 21, after a lingering illness, aged twenty-two years. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Mattson, and besides her father and mother she leaves one brother John, and four sisters, Blenda, Engla, Ruth and Lily Mattson, as well as a wide circle of friends to mourn her loss. Although her death was unexpected, the end came as a severe shock to her many friends here, with whom she was very popular. Miss Mattson’s illness covered a period of over two years, and although the members of her family were unfailing in their devotion and care of the favorite sister, and the best of medical aid given in the hope that she might regain her lost health, it seemed to be the will of Almighty God to pick this frail flower in the bloom of young womanhood and place her among his chosen ones. Her parents sent her to Rutland sanatorium in the early stages of her illness, and although every attention was given her there and she fought hard to withstand the ravages of the disease, she returned home but slightly improved in health and since then the loving father and mother, brother and sisters gratified her every wish and showered upon her their tenderest care and devotion to the very end.

The funeral took place on Sunday afternoon at 1:30 o’clock, with a brief prayer service at the house that was conducted by Rev. Benedict Nelson of the Swedish M. E. church of Lowell. By special request of [the] deceased before she died the following singers of that church sang a Swedish melody: Victor Hedlund, Alex Bratt, Arvil Jonson, Adaff Forsberg, Raynor Linstrom, Frank Hallstrom, and Charles Laurin. At the Graniteville M. E. church the regular services were conducted by Rev. S. H. Armand, assisted by Rev. Benedict Nelson. The large church was entirely filled with friends who came to pay their last respects to one whom they loved so dearly. Mr. Armand spoke feelingly on the life of the departed, dwelling at length on here Christian fortitude and patience and her keen appreciation of all that her relatives and friends had done to help to alleviate her suffering. She was a devout member of the church and having made her peace with God, was ready and willing for the summons to go. Mr. Nelson spoke words of consolation to the bereaved family, his remarks making a deep impression on all those present. The regular choir, with Miss Emily Prinn organist, and the following singers, E. G. Boynton, Stephen Gardell, Frank Counter, Henry Smith, Alfred Prinn, Mrs. Armand, Mrs. C. H. Wright, Mrs. W. C. Wright and Mrs. Caroline Prinn, sang “home of the soul” and Mrs. Armand sang “Lord, I’m coming home.” Charles Laurin, assisted by the singers of the Swedish church, sang very feelingly, “Jesus, lover of my soul,” and a Swedish melody. The body rested in a fine white casket, surrounded by banks of flowers. The floral tributes were varied and beautiful, which testified in a marked degree to the high esteem in which deceased was held. The bearers were Thomas E. Danio, William F. Sargent, Fred E. Reed, Edward M. Riney, F. Russell Furbush, Fred W. Leland. Burial was in Fairview cemetery, Westford, Mr. Armand and Mr. Nelson performed the last sad rites at the grave, and there was appropriate singing by the quartet from the Swedish church.

Among those in attendance at the funeral were many from out of town, including Mrs. H. J. Nutting, Mrs. Harry Cunningham and Mrs. Orrin Kidder of Ayer; Robert and Miss Emma Jones and John Hanlon, South Chelmsford; Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Anderson, Mr. and Mrs. Eliason and Miss Elsa R. M. Anderson of West Chelmsford; Mr. and Mrs. Hedlund, Mrs. Benedict Nelson, Miss Eva S. Craven, Charles Deveno, Joseph Higgins, J. Edward Kearns and Frank McGovern of Lowell.

[1] This is the last line of each of the four stanzas of Francis Scott Key’s (1779-1843) “The Star-Spangled Banner.”