The Westford Wardsman, November, 1910
Saturday, November 5, 1910
Centre. Mr. and Mrs. G. W. Goode have closed their camp at Forge pond and gone for their customary winter sojourn in New York. The pleasant fall weather has made it possible to make a long season at camp.
Miss Eva Pyne was an over Sunday guest at the home of Mr. and Mrs. George Rose in Cambridge.
Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Pyne have been recent visitors at Mr. and Mrs. Sawyer’s home in Dorchester. Mrs. Sawyer is Mr. Pyne’s sister.
Mrs. Arthur H. Hazen and Miss Gertrude Hazen of West Hartford, Vt., have been spending the week at the parsonage. Mrs. Hazen is Mrs. Wallace’s aunt, and Miss Hazel her cousin and their home is in Mrs. Wallace’s native town.
Mrs. Clifford Bass and Mrs. William Bragdon of Portsmouth, N.H., have been guests at Washoba [sic] farm this week, and were present with Miss Foster at the Tadmuck club on Tuesday afternoon.
James E. Gill of Ludlow, Vt., was an over Sunday guest of his sister, Mrs. J. Herbert Fletcher.
Master John Gill Fletcher has been on the sick list and under the doctor’s care with tonsillitis this week.
A number of Westford patrons attended the Pomona grange session at Littleton on Wednesday, and were also present for the conference of the fifth degree and the entertainment in the evening.
Tadmuck Club. The regular meeting of the Tadmuck club took place in Library hall on Tuesday afternoon. Miss Loker, the president, who has always been so constant and prompt in conducting the club sessions was detained at home on account of Mr. Bunce’s illness, and Miss Hildreth, the vice president, was unable to be present, having to meet a business appointment which she had deferred from the previous day in order to represent the club at the Littleton Federation meeting.
The secretary and treasurer, Mrs. Wheeler, presided at the routine business and reported pleasantly the meeting at Littleton on Monday afternoon, [after] which Frank H. Hill, superintendent of schools, was introduced and addressed the large audience on “Conflicting ideals in education.” It was a comprehensive, earnest and thoughtful presentation of a vital subject and fully merited the careful and appreciative attention it received.
At the next meeting one of the programs of the special season’s study will be carried out. This is the one in the group under “Spanish North America,” entitled “The Aztecs and Montezumas,” of which Miss Edith M. Lawrence is chairman. This afternoon’s program is changed in place of Mr. Bailey’s “The minister in fiction,” which he will give on February 21.
About Town. The old First Parish church will hold its annual fair and entertainment next Friday afternoon and evening in the vestry of the church. There will be all the usual attractive tables with articles for sale. Supper will be served from four to six. Later there will be a concert and a dance. The music will be extra fine by out-of-town talent.
David Billson, the expert engineer at the Fletcher quarry, while trying to adjust some electric wires on a motor engine, last week Friday, accidentally touched two live wires which made him less live than the wires for a few minutes. Workmen close by were unable to loosen his hold of the wires until the current was shut off. He was rendered unconscious for a few moments, but soon rallied.
Judging by the last rally day for registration there will be a large vote cast next Tuesday. Eighteen persons were registered Saturday afternoon and evening.
Daniel H. Sheehan has started his apple bruiser and the flow of juice is more abundant than water in Tadmuck brook where sitteth the mill.
The saw and grist mill at Westford station would be busy with logs and cob corn if a rain would only add a little to the pond. As it is the sound of the grinding is very low.
Barn Dance. The sporting element of life that loves ball games in town had their annual outing indoors at the town hall, last week Friday evening, and the Westford A.A. in their barn dance attire never looked more business like or pleasure like. The hall was also uniformed for the occasion with Jack-o’-lanterns, corn, all kinds of farming implements and rural greenness generally. The Colonial orchestra of Lowell also in barn dance uniform added to ye old time days of barn sociability. The judges were John Hutchinson of Littleton, Joseph Wall of Graniteville and Mrs. Clara Greig of Westford.
Much additional merriment resulted from the presentation to the association of four sketches of this wonderful ball playing team by Miss Balch. Dancing was enjoyed from eight until one. Chelmsford, Littleton, Lowell and the surrounding towns were well represented.
Forge Village. A number of men have been engaged the past week raking up the streets and making new sidewalks. As a result Pond street and Bradford street present a very tidy and neat appearance. The work is being done by Abbot & Company. A little grading and raking around the Cameron school would add considerable to the appearance of the building. New cement sidewalks were laid in front of the school when it was enlarged two years ago, but the lawn in the front and around the school remains in a very unsightly condition. The cellar windows are also left unsafe and an iron railing should be placed around them to protect the children. A little attention paid to these things would be greatly appreciated by the teachers and parents.
Rev. M. L. Kellner of the Theological school at Cambridge conducted the services at St. Andrew’s mission, Sunday afternoon. It was announced during the service that Rev. Arthur L. Bumpus of Belvidere, Ill., would be in charge of St. Andrew’s parish November 6, and would conduct the services at the mission at 4:30. A letter was sent from the former parishioners of Mr. Bumpus to Bishop Lawrence, and was sent by the bishop to Rev. Mr. Kellner, who read it to the congregation on Sunday recommending Mr. Bumpus very highly. A cordial invitation is extended to everyone to attend the service next Sunday and meet the newly-appointed vicar.
Edward T. Hanley, Fred A. Sweatt, Elmer E. Nutting, James Sullivan and John Carmichael spent Saturday and Sunday as the guests of Julian A. Cameron at his summer residence at Essex Island, making the trip in Mr. Cameron’s automobile.
Mrs. Hugh Daly went to Leominster on Monday to attend the birthday party given her daughter, Miss Gladys Daly, by her aunt, Miss Elizabeth Dufort, on Monday evening. Mrs. Daly also attended the reception last Friday of the Leominster high school teachers to the parents of their pupils. Miss Daly is completing her last year at high school.
Daniel Sullivan of Boston, spent the first of the week with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Sullivan of Pond street.
Miss Christina Lowther is spending this week at Worcester, as the guest of Mr. and Mrs. William Baker, at their home on College hill.
Philip and John Morton of Lowell were entertained on Saturday and Sunday at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Fennimore Morton on Central street.
The Ladies’ Sewing circle met at Recreation hall on Thursday afternoon, and after the usual work a very pretty luncheon was served, which concluded with a social hour.
The members of the John Edwards hose company held their regular monthly meeting at the hose house on Wednesday evening. The money made at their recent dance was turned into the treasury, and plans were discussed to hold a concert in the near future.
Mrs. John Baker, who has been confined to her home by illness, is somewhat better.
Meedoe Canton has purchased a strip of land from Mr. and Mrs. R. D. Prescott on Union street and will build a two-tenement house immediately.
John Carmichael has purchased a strip of land joining his residence which gives him a frontage of 132 feet.
Graniteville. The song service that was held in the Long-Sought-For chapel at North Westford last Sunday afternoon, was very largely attended. The services were conducted by Rev. Y. J. Oldaker of Boston, while Rev. L. F. Havermale of the M.E. church, assisted by Lucy Blood, had charge of the Sunday school. Albert E. Day presided at the organ during the services. It is the intention to hold services in the chapel every Sunday afternoon during the month of November. Sunday school will commence at 2:30 p.m., to be followed by a song service from 3:15 to four p.m. All are cordially invited.
The spirit of Hallowe’en that means so much to the young people was observed here in various ways. At several of the homes, many of the old-time tricks and charms were tried over again, while many of the youngsters paraded the streets in the early evening with Jack-o’-lanterns and other contrivances appropriate for the occasion. A regular Hallowe’en party, under the direction of Miss Engla Mattsom [Mattson], was held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. John Mattsom in West Graniteville, the proceeds of which will be added to the treasury of the Epworth league.
Many young people from this village attended the big democratic rally held in Ayer on Wednesday night.
Mrs. Julia B. Wall, g.o.g. of Cameron circle of Graniteville, and Mrs. Julia McCarth, g.c.c. of Lynn, visited Ayer circle on Tuesday evening.
Rousing Rally. A rousing democratic rally was held in Healey’s hall in this village on Thursday night of last week that was largely attended by the citizens of Westford, Littleton, Chelmsford, Ayer, Acton and surrounding towns. Edward Fisher, chairman of the democratic town committee and candidate for representative in the eleventh Middlesex district, was chairman of the evening and introduced as the first speaker, Councilman Frank M. Farmer of Lynn, who delivered a very spirited speech on State issues. It was certainly an interesting subject. After the chairman had given a little inside information to the methods of the opposite party, Phillip A. Kiely of Lynn, candidate for senator in the seventh Middlesex district, was introduced. Mr. Kiely gave a clear, concise explanation of the different issues, comparing his record with that of his opponent, Frank P. Bennett, jr., of Saugus. His remarks were followed with close attention and judging by the interest shown by the large audience present, his words made a great impression. The next speaker was a man that the people here have been long anxious to see and when Hon. John J. Mitchell of Marlboro, candidate for congress in the fourth congressional district, was presented, he received an ovation. Mr. Mitchell did not talk on woman suffrage, or quote scripture, but came right to the point at once and the reason for the high cost of living, as explained by him, left no doubt in the minds of those present that he has a thorough knowledge of the subject. From a personal standpoint, Mr. Mitchell is a striking figure and an able orator, and aside from his political faith it would be a pleasure to hear him deliver an address on almost any subject. He certainly made a great hit with the people here and at the conclusion of his address the applause lasted several minutes. Take it on the whole, the rally was a success in every way and those who attended will surely profit by it.
Harvest Supper. The Ladies’ Aid society of the M.E. church held their annual harvest supper and entertainment in the church vestry on Thursday evening, and the affair was largely attended. The supper was in charge of Mrs. Maria Wall and served from 6:30 to eight p.m., and was up to the usual high standard sustained by the Ladies’ Aid. After supper a very pleasing entertainment was given under the direction of Henry Smith. The program was varied and well balanced, and several of those that took part were obliged to respond to an encore. Miss Alice Gilson was the accompanist during the evening. Owing to previous engagement, the pastor, Rev. L. F. Havermale, was unable to be present. Both the supper and entertainment were highly enjoyed and the different committees in charge, as well as those who took part in any way toward the success of the affair, are to be recommended for furnishing a very enjoyable evening. Following is the program:
Piano solo, Miss Madeline Holland; vocal solo, “Face to face,” Miss Rachel Wall; reading selected, Mrs. O. A. Nelson; song, “The songs my mother used to sing,” Miss Bertha Wilson; piano solo, “Sweet bye and bye,” Miss Ruth Furbush; quartet, “Who will o’er the downs,” Mrs. C. W. Wright, Henry Smith, Frank Caunter and O. A. Nelson; reading, “Peck’s bad boy,” J. Everett Woods; vocal solo with chorus by the audience, “Mother hymn to me,” Henry Smith.
Saturday, November 12, 1910
Centre. The officials of the Lowell and Fitchburg Street Railway Company and the board of selectmen held a conference Thursday at the office of Edward Fisher at Lowell relative to the earnings of the spur track from Brookside to Westford Centre in the past six months. The accounts submitted showed a deficit in the operating expenses for the past six months of over $100, and according to agreement, the townspeople are to make that sum good. There is a paper in circulation to raise the money. The road will be kept in operation for the next six months on the same basis.
A daughter [Alice Frances Heywood, born Nov. 7, 1910] was born to Mr. and Mrs. Albert W. Heywood on Tuesday of this week.
A son [Albert Arthur Mills, born Nov. 8, 1910] was born to Mr. and Mrs. Herbert A. Mills, in Westford depot neighborhood, the first of this week.
Peter Clement’s family are in quarantine, one of his daughters having an attack of diphtheria. Fortunately it is in a mild form.
Mrs. Myrtle Snow Clark, who has been spending a number of weeks with her parents in North Westford, has returned to her home at Saranac Lake, N.Y.
Miss Evelyn Atwood came up last week for her last stay with the Westford relatives before returning to her winter home in Dayton [sic],Fla.
James Kimball from Boston was present with his aunt, Miss Luce, at the supper and entertainment at the Congregational vestry on Wednesday evening.
Grange. There was a fair attendance at the last meeting of the grange and those present felt well repaid for being there owing to the excellence of the program. Rev. Albert H. Wheeler, chaplain of the state grange, was the speaker of the evening. Mr. Wheeler is always a favorite with the Westford patrons with his genial, genuine personality, and his presentation of the subject, “The crowning glory of man,” was most closely followed. The crowning glory he deemed to be character, which was above beauty, grace, ancestry, social position, wealth, the cunning hand or the cultured brain. It was an excellent theme excellently treated.
The program was supplemented with cornet and piano duets by Mr. Blodgett and Miss Pond. Master Frank C. Wright for the first time for several meetings was able to be in his chair. Mr. Wright earnestly thanked the members for the flowers sent to Mrs. Wright and himself during their illness and other kindnesses received.
At the meeting of the North Middlesex Pomona grange, held the following day in Lowell, Westford grange had its full share in the events of the day and evening. There was a large delegation present and the dinner and supper were in charge of Westford members, with Mrs. Josie A. Prescott chairman.
The Westford grange orchestra furnished music during the afternoon under the direction of Arthur Blodgett, cornetist; William Wall, drum; Walter Steele, violin; and Miss Marion Blodgett, pianist. There were a number from this grange who received the fifth degree in the evening.
Social. The first social in the series for the season at the Congregational church was held on Wednesday evening, and was thoroughly successful. It was in the charge of the gentlemen who carried out all details of the supper and entertainment and they richly deserved the ready appreciation they received.
At 6:30 a fine supper of oyster stew, escalloped oysters, cold meat, rolls, coffee and pie was served, followed by an entertainment in the vestry below. All of the numbers contributed by the gentlemen was as follows: W. J. Merritt gave a varied number of selections on his graphophone which is of especial softness and clearness of tone; Fred A. Smith read two selections, “Choosing a pastor,” and “Nobody ‘specially cares,” which was much enjoyed. Rev. David Wallace gave violin solos, which were a happy manifestation of a new accomplishment to most of his friends. L. W. Wheeler read “The courtin’” from James Russell Lowell
Rev. David Wallace had general charge of arrangements and Fred A. Smith was the capable head man in the kitchen.
About Town. Mr. and Mrs. Felix McGown [McGowan] are busy these November days in pushing a girl [Elizabeth F. McGowan, born Sept. 29, 1910, Lowell] baby carriage. Mr. McGown will be remembered as a brother of the late Mrs. Samuel M. Hutchins, and lived in town for several years at her home opposite Fairview cemetery.
Rev. Richmond Fisk of Ayer conducted the services at the Unitarian church last Sunday and preached an eloquent sermon on the final triumph of good. Evil as a permanent influence was given an eloquent leave to withdraw and set up business nowhere.
The piling for the extension of the bridge for the lengthening of the sidetrack at Westford station arrived several weeks ago, and according to rules of the Boston and Maine railroad they should be paying for overtime storage of their own freight on their own cars. The extension will cross Stony Brook towards the arch bridge.
Next Thursday evening will be observed as neighbors’ night by the grange, and Littleton and Groton granges will furnish appetite and entertainment.
Gleason & Company are in town and doing business in an apple way. They are preparing to load a car at Westford.
Several from town attended the grange ladies’ minstrel show at Chelmsford. It was so much witty, wise, pleasing and close to nature, that the town hall had not capacity enough for all oncomers and a carload from Lowell could only be allowed outside space, which is a large acreage.
The Fortnightly club is beginning to gather its scattered recollections of last spring’s adjournment, and a meeting is momentarily expected most any Friday evening after this week so keep open eye and clear vision.
The Election. The forewarned landslide has come and gone, and for all that has left the thankful spirit that we are not crippled for life. That the new deal will make good there is no doubt, that doubt will be good is quite another affair that we have all got to prove by eating it. Should it prove more bitter than what we are at present enjoying, why then we shall begin to look for our return ticket which always has an unlimited date. The vote of Westford was all that was expected and some besides. The following vote will show the expected and other reflections: Governor, Draper 220, Foss 129; lieutenant governor, Frothingham 227, Cassidy 109; congressman, Wilder 200, Mitchell 134; senator, Bennett 213, Kiely 116; representative, Wilkins 129, Fisher 240.
The republicans of the town remained true to the rock bed principals of protection to home industry, and helped to give a majority of 109 to home grown product for representative [i.e., Edward Fisher]. We are still living and breathing occasionally, pulse is slow, but makes out to go.
Forge Village. Rev. Arthur L. Bumpus, who has been appointed vicar of St. Andrew’s parish, which includes Ayer and this village, preached his first sermon at the mission on Sunday afternoon and made a good impression on the large congregation present. Rev. Mr. Bumpus announced that he would call on his parishioners within a few days, as he desires to become acquainted with the members of his church. A meeting will be held shortly and committees will be appointed for the different societies connected with the church.
Holy communion will be celebrated at the mission next Sunday morning at nine o’clock; evening prayer at 4:30; Sunday school at 3:30. Choir rehearsals will be resumed on Wednesday evening of each week, commencing next week.
The Ladies’ Sewing circle met at Recreation hall on Thursday afternoon for the usual work. A lunch was served which added considerable interest in the afternoon’s sewing.
Miss Mary H. and Miss Annie Cherry spent Saturday and Sunday as the guests of Mr. and Mrs. William Baker of College hill, Worcester. Miss Christine Lowther, who spent last week with Mr. and Mrs. Baker, returned home on Sunday night.
Mrs. Joseph Mason and little son Clayton of Lowell spent a few days the first of the week with [her parents] Mr. and Mrs. Henry Catchpole.
Joseph McDonald, who purchased the Bradley farm in Groton some time ago, moved his household effects on Saturday. Mr. and Mrs. Ame Boucher and family moved into the house vacated by Joseph McDonald on Bradford street, and Mr. and Mrs. Tenney Martin, who purchased the brick house which was occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Boucher, took possession of their property on Monday.
Mrs. Hans C. Dege and son Albert of North Billerica were entertained on Saturday and Sunday at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Catchpole.
Mrs. Harriett E. Randall spent Saturday and Sunday with friends in Brockton. Mrs. Randall has a fine display of chrysanthemums in her garden and Wednesday picked two rosebuds.
Alvin S. Bennett has returned from a business trip to Springfield.
Mrs. Felix True and two sons of North Chelmsford spent Wednesday with her sister, Mrs. Tenney Martin.
Death. Mrs. Ellen Cavanaugh, wife of William Cavanaugh, died early Tuesday morning at her home on Bradford street, after an illness of a few days. Mrs. Cavanaugh gave birth to a son last Saturday and although the little fellow is well and doing nicely, the mother sank rapidly until the end, leaving a husband and ten children. Mr. and Mrs. Cavanaugh arrived here four months ago from Keighley, England, and intended to settle here with their family. Mrs. Cavanaugh was a devoted wife and mother, and was a regular attendant at St. Catherine’s church. The sincere sympathy of the entire village is extended to the bereaved family in their great loss. The funeral was held at St. Catherine’s church on Friday morning.
Graniteville. The Jolly Three club of this village held a social dance in Healy’s hall on Saturday night of last week that was well attended. Music was furnished by the Elite orchestra of this village, and at intermission an excellent oyster supper was served in the lower hall. There was to be prize waltzing at this affair, but owing to the large number being present, and the flow being constantly crowded, it was thought best to postpone this interesting event until some future time. The dance was in charge of the following committee: John Rafferty, general manager; Walter Shattuck, floor director; Edward Leland, supper committee.
The Ladies’ Aid society of the M.E. church met with Mrs. W. O. Hawkes on Thursday afternoon at three o’clock.
Clarence H. McLenna of this village and Miss Myrtle Weston of South Lancaster were quietly married in Clinton on Friday, November 5. Mr. McLenna, who is a telegraph operator, now has charge of the Western Union telegraph office at Clinton. Mr. and Mrs. McLenna will at present reside with the bride’s parents in South Lancaster, and later will take up housekeeping in Clinton. The young couple start in on their new life with the best wishes of a host of friends, for both are very well known, both here and in South Lancaster.
Saturday, November 19, 1910
Center. The stores of Wright & Fletcher and J. Herbert Fletcher will close hereafter at 7:30 on Tuesday evenings as well as on Thursday evenings. The townspeople will bear in mind that as soon as the evening mail is sorted and delivered on these evenings the stores will be closed.
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Howard and their little son John of Concord, N.H., have recently enjoyed a few days’ stay with Mr. and Mrs. Calvin Howard.
Mrs. William Sutherland’s many friends are glad that she has recovered from her recent serious ill turn.
Albert Waller, who came east and spent the summer with his parents, has returned to San Francisco, Cal., where he has a good position as an electrician with a telephone company.
Edward Hamlin is able to be out and at work again after being disabled several weeks with a badly injured eye. While cutting glass a sliver flew and struck the eye ball. Later a bad abscess formed, causing much pain and inconvenience and the care of a Lowell eye specialist.
Miss Grace Lumbert returned last week from Littleton where she has been in her professional capacity and went the following day to Oxford, to be gone several weeks.
A recent enterprise of the ladies of the Congregational church was to supplement the work of the faithful janitor with [a] general cleaning day. Paint, windows, etc., received some thorough attention and Eliot Humiston demonstrated the efficiency of his new vacuum cleaner by going over the entire surface of the church carpet, removing a great amount of fine dust.
Mr. and Mrs. W. M. Wright have entertained as their initial guest in their new home, Mrs. Wright’s father, Cyrus Hosmer of Wakefield, for several days.
Through the courtesy of Superintendent L. H. Cushing of the Lowell and Fitchburg Street Railway Co., the Westford patrons are not to be debarred from all evening service between the Centre and Brookside. Mr. Cushing has arranged with the selectmen to have a late Saturday night car from Brookside to Westford Centre, the fare to be twenty cents for the round trip to Brookside. This plan is to be put into operation for the first time this Saturday evening, November 19, and if $2.00 can be realized for each round trip it will be continued in operation.
Mrs. John B. Fletcher has closed her house and gone for the winter to stay with her niece, Mrs. Edith Fletcher Wilson of Chelmsford.
The old First Parish church is completing its improvements by installing the town water supply. The house occupied by Mrs. Lillian Lumbert was also equipped in like manner last week.
Mr. and Mrs. Charles L. Hildreth went to Cambridge last Saturday for the Dartmouth-Harvard football game and afterward went to Winchester and spent Sunday with the Henry Hildreths.
The Thimble club met with Mrs. William L. Woods in her pleasant new home on Wednesday afternoon. There was a good attendance and true to its name the members carried thimbles and worked on window draperies for their hostess.
The total eclipse of the splendid harvest moon on Wednesday evening was much appreciated by the interested ones. The fine coppery tints were particularly in evidence.
The newly-installed telephone service for the south part of the town is completed and the following families are enjoying the service: Mrs. Sarah J. Drew, A. H. Burnham, Augustus Bunce, C. H. Bicknell, George A. Kimball, D. J. McLeod, Harry L. Nesmith, Fred H. Sharey, James D. Wilson, T. A. E. Wilson, Erving C. West. The line for the Angus McDonald and David Desmond families will soon be completed and ready for use.
The official census figures, which have just been announced by the census bureau at Washington, give the town of Westford a population of 2,851, a gain of 227 people in ten years, the population in 1900 being 2, 624.
A new basketball team has been organized by the academy students under the direction of Principal Coggeshall, which promises well for an interesting schedule of games.
Obituary. It is with a feeling of genuine sadness that the announcement went through the community on Monday of the death of Harwood Wright [who died Nov. 4]. Mr. Wright was advanced in years and had not been in good health for a long time and for the last six weeks had been confined to his room with heart trouble. Saturday he had suffered a bad attack but had rallied somewhat, and at the last the end came suddenly.
Nahum Harwood Wright was born in Littleton, September 15, 1831, being the fifth child in a family of eight children of Ezekiel Conant and Susan Stevens Wright. He was educated in the public schools of Littleton and Lowell. In early manhood he was for a number of years an engineer on the Boston and Lowell railway, as it was then called. During this time he met with a serious accident which nearly cost him his life, but after recovering from this continued in that capacity for about a year when he took charge for a number of years of the milk car which at the present time is managed by the D. Whiting & Sons Co.
Mr. Wright was afterward associated with the late Arthur Wright in the grocery business at Graniteville and later with the late Sherman D. Fletcher and his son, Sherman H. Fletcher, which for many years has been the firm of Wright & Fletcher, Mr. Wright’s son, Harwood L., having succeeded him in the partnership when he retired a few years ago.
Mr. Wright has lived for the past forty years at Westford Centre. He has filled many offices of trust and responsibility; that of selectman, and for twenty-three consecutive years held the office of town treasurer, resigning in 1909, when his son Harwood L. succeeded to the office.
Mr. Wright was a member of William North lodge of Masons and also of the Pilgrim Commandery of Knights Templars of Lowell. He was married in 1857 to Miss Abby Livingston, who died January 24, 1896.
He is survived by two sons, Henry M. Wright of Quincy, principal of the English high school of that place, and Harwood L. Wright of this town, who succeeds his father in the firm of Wright & Fletcher; also, one grandson, Livingston Wright.
Mr. Wright was a man of sterling integrity in all his dealings of innate courtesy and genial kindness, leaving to those who come after him a blessed heritage of upright manhood, and to the community a keen sense of loss for a good man gone from their midst.
Tadmuck Club. The regular meeting of the Tadmuck club met in the vestry of the Congregational church on Tuesday afternoon. This change of meeting place was for the availability of a piano for the musical numbers on the program that had been prepared. The program for the afternoon was the first in the series for the winter’s special study of Spanish North America and was “The Aztecs and Montezumas,” with Miss Edith M. Lawrence as chairman. It took more than an unfortunately chilly vestry to cool the appreciation of the excellence of the two papers prepared, the first by Miss Lawrence on the Aztecs, and the second by Miss Bertha H. Norris on Montezumas. From a wealth of material Miss Lawrence and Miss Norris had culled the salient features of interest concerning these early dwellers of Mexico and their customs and their kings Montezuma first and second.
The program was pleasingly interspersed with solos by Miss Winifred Burnham and Miss Adrith Carter, accompanied at the piano by Miss Julia Fletcher.
Miss Lawrence had tastefully decorated the rooms with yellow chrysanthemums and greenery. Rev. Mr. Bailey who exchanged with Miss Lawrence will give his afternoon “The minister in fiction” on February 21. It was fitting that Tuesday afternoon’s subject should come as an introductory number to the season’s study.
At the next meeting, November 19, Miss Edith Foster will continue the subject with the special topic, “Cuba and her neighbors under Spanish and American rule.” Mrs. Oliver Wellington Priest of Portsmouth, N.H., who sang so charmingly for the club last season, will be the vocalist of the afternoon, and the meeting will be held at the same place as on Tuesday afternoon.
Mrs. Thomas R. Fisher of Lowell has been admitted into membership in the club and Mrs. Fred A. Sweatt of Forge Village has had her name placed on the waiting list for the first vacancy.
Forge Village. Services at St. Andrew’s mission will be held at 4:15 p.m., Sunday, November 20, instead of 4:30 p.m., the usual hour in the past.
Rev. A. L. Bumpus, the new pastor of the Mission, was in the village during the week, making calls on his new parishioners.
Batters have been put up for four new cottages on Union street, to be built by the Abbot Worsted Co.
Ground has been broken and cellar being dug for the building of a house on the land recently purchased by Midase Canton on the same street.
The Ladies’ Sewing circle met in Recreation hall on Thursday afternoon, and after the usual routine, a dainty and most enjoyable luncheon was served.
The engagements are announced of the following young ladies of this village: Miss Janie Cotterell to Albert E. Jones of Worcester; Miss Rose Northrup to John Morton of Lowell; Miss Elizabeth Orange to Ephraim Vicars of Providence, R.I.
Mrs. Lucretia Reed and her sister, Mrs. Mary I. Drake, visited friends in Beverly today.
Mrs. Miller received word on Friday of the death of her sister in Lawrence. Mrs. Miller is recovering from an attack of tonsillitis.
Death. The funeral of Mrs. Ellen Kavanaugh, wife of William Kavanaugh, took place on Friday morning of last week, from her home on Bradford street, at 8:30. A high mass was celebrated at St. Catherine’s church at nine o’clock, and Rev. M. E. Doherty officiated. The choir, under the direction of Miss Mary F. Healey, sang the Gregorian chant. At the offertory, the choir sang “Pie Jesu,” and as the body was borne from the church, sang the “de Profundis.” Burial was in St. Catherine’s cemetery.
The bearers were John McNiff, Thomas May, James May, James Burnes, William Venn and Thomas Finn. A large number of friends and neighbors were present at the church.
Mrs. Kavanaugh came to this country from Keighley, England, with her husband and family four months ago, and her pleasing personality and quiet and gentle character won for her many friends. Especially sad will be the news of her death to relatives and friends of deceased in England, whom she left but a short time ago and in the best of health. A husband and ten children, the youngest but a few days old, are left to mourn her loss.
Friends from Lowell, Lawrence and Methuen attended the funeral.
About Town. The Edwin E. Heywood farm has been sold to a New Hampshire party who is not yet near enough the farm to be named. Just a wait and his name will appear in the Westford directory which is in charge of tax collector Leonard W. Wheeler. The price paid as reported by authority was $4,200.
Mrs. Leonard Walker of Groton was a recent guest at the old stand pat Walker homestead on Main street.
Rev. Mr. Bailey will exchange next Sunday with Rev. O. J. Fairfield of Littleton, who was recently of Ware.
Charles W. Whitney on the Lowell road has disposed of his milk route at West Chelmsford to William C. Edwards, Peter Lull and others.
With favoring moons and stars, winds and roads, the fair of the old First Parish church last week Friday afternoon and evening, moved right along to $212 net profit point which helps much towards much. Rev. L. H. Buckshorn, a former minister, was present at the fair and was much shaken by the tokens of unforgotten associations. The Roslindale orchestra of Lowell did much lively work with musical instruments, and youthful townfolk did much lively work of a pretty twirl in answering it.
C. R. P. Decatur, as per order of the school committee, has moved the furnace in the Stony Brook school to the Nabnassett school. Better move the windows also. It will save much target shooting with the stones, accompanied by the small boys. Bang, bang are the windows now, nice little row.
Frederick A. Snow of West Chelmsford, of chilly name and genial fame, has added the telephone as an entertainer. This, with the recent baby boy carriage entertainer, makes life very much awake and desirable. He is now equipped to receive messages and interpret them in terms of business, pleasure or duty.
It would blend with the Thanksgiving spirit at the annual appointed day next Thursday, if our remembrance was not all turkey for home consumption. Let the tariff come off for the day.
Parkerville and rural suburbs are still without rapid transit, but the newly-installed telephone provides them with rapid means of talking and thirteen families have gone at it on line thirty-six.
Prices are tumbling, but the tariff is not. How is this? Come explain politicians.
Death. Many residents in town will be saddened to learn of the sudden death in New York city, of Mrs. Isadore F. Virgin. She was the wife of Rev. Samuel H. Virgin, D.D., who for many years was minister of the Congregational church in Harlem, N.Y. For many years their summer residence had been in West Chelmsford at the homestead of her father, the late William Blodgett, and where about ten years ago they built the spacious new house. In the delightful summer days they were almost daily seen on the wooded roads of Westford by trout brook and lake.
Mrs. Virgin leaves besides her husband, two children, Dr. Fred A. Virgin of New York city, and Mrs. Miriam V. Ravee of Cambridge, who is the wife of Rev. Vincent Ravee, formerly of the village church at West Chelmsford; also, three grandchildren., Vincent, Catherine and Nora Ravee.
The funeral and burial took place on Wednesday afternoon at Mt. Auburn. Several of the old resident families of West Chelmsford were present. She was in her sixty-fifth year. The home, village and church life of this rural community are mutual mourners as they were mutual by influence.
Recount. The board of registrars met on Monday evening at the selectmen’s room to recount the votes for congressman from the fourth district and senator from the seventh district, as petitioned for by disappointed candidates. George T. Day and Charles L. Hildreth represented Mr. Wilder and Lawyer O’Sullivan of Lowell represented Mr. Mitchell. In the senatorial count, John A. Healey of Graniteville represented candidate Kiely of Lynn and the board of registrars represented candidate Bennett of Saugus. The recount revealed no material change from the returns of the election officers. Both candidates for congress lost one vote each for the long term. By the recount Wilder has 194 for the long term and 195 for the short term. Mitchell has 144 for the long term and 159 for the short term. Lawyer O’Sullivan contested eight votes for Wilder. [For] The recount for senator, the returns of the election officers was confirmed.
An Old Historic Church. The dedication of the memorial window to be placed in the First Parish church, the gift of Col. Edwin D. Metcalf, in memory of his mother, will take place on Sunday afternoon, November 27, it being the anniversary of the organization of the church and ordination of the first minister, Rev. Willard Hall, November 27, 1727. This old historic church, with its gilded spire ever pointing towards greater light, has stood the ebb and flow in the problems of faith, discipline and finance. “And having done all, stand.” [Ephesians 6:13] Rev. E. A. Horton of Boston, of fragrant Westford academy memories, will give the address. [Rev. Edward Augustus Horton (1843-1931) became a trustee of Westford Academy in 1871.] The choir are rehearsing special music and will be assisted by Alfred E. Prescott of Boston. Col. Metcalf will also be present and add to the effectiveness of memories tribute.
Saturday, November 26, 1910
Centre. Mrs. Annie Barnard has been a recent guest at Mrs. C. Willis Hildreth’s.
Everett Miller is in Boston learning auto repairing.
Mr. and Mrs. Julian Cameron are enjoying a sea trip to Panama and other southern ports.
The engagement is announced of Miss Ruby Carter and Will E. Wright.
Mrs. George E. Mudgett of Riverdale, N.H., has been visiting at Wayland Balch’s.
Alvin J. Blaisdell and Albert E. Jenne were omitted from the list of new telephone subscribers at the south part of the town as given in last week’s issue of this paper.
Mrs. Lillian Buckhold of Ludlow, Vt., is the guest of her sister, Mrs. J. Herbert Fletcher.
The first trip of the Saturday evening car proved very successful, carrying double the number of passengers that the company will require to make themselves whole. Now the thing for those patrons to do who have wanted some evening service is to continue to co-operate with the management of the road and make it an assured success.
Fred B. Reed, employed in the Lowell postoffice and whose sudden and tragic death occurred this past week from an attack of heart trouble while walking on the street, was born in Westford [Nashua, N.H.] and spent the earlier part of his life here. He was a son of George Reed, and David and William Reed were his uncles.
Mrs. Ida M. Gould is visiting in South Framingham.
Members of the Tadmuck club will please bear in mind that the meeting next Tuesday afternoon will be in the vestry of the Congregational church and that Miss Edith Foster has charge of the program, assisted by Mrs. Oliver Wellington Priest of Portsmouth, N.H., as vocalist.
Grange. Good roads and the crisp moonlit evening added to the fact that the rush of fall work is somewhat over made a good attendance at the neighbors’ night at Westford grange on Thursday evening of last week. Groton and Littleton granges were the ones especially invited and there were also members present form Pepperell, Acton, Lexington and Dracut. A bountiful supper was served the first part of the evening which was in charge of the ladies’ degree staff. The prettily set tables, the appetizing food and the good service of the waiters all demonstrated the ability of the staff to achieve a good result in this direction, and a rising vote of thanks was given them by the guests at the close of the meal. There were fully two hundred at the tables.
The entertainment of the evening was furnished by the visiting granges and was excellent and varied. There were readings, solos, duets, vocal and instrumental, piano, violin, cornet and bells; also, two bright, short papers, the first on “Cheerfulness,” by Mrs. Whitehill of Groton, and the second, “How I would farm if I were a man,” by Mrs. Sawyer, also of Groton. The next meeting on December first will be election of officers in this grange and a good attendance is hoped for.
Funeral. The funeral services for the late Nahum H. Wright were held from his late home on Thursday afternoon of last week and were largely attended by relatives, neighbors and friends, who came to pay this last tribute of respect to one gone from their midst. There was also a large delegation of Masons in attendance, every lodge being represented at the gathering. The deceased was a member of William North lodge, A.F. and A.M., Royal Arch chapter, Ahasuerus council and Pilgrim Commandery, all of which were represented in delegations, and at the grave the Masonic ritual services were held.
The parlor of the home where the body rested was banked with a perfect wealth of floral tributes, so many expressing in this way their sincere appreciation of him whose mortal frame rested in their midst, and their message of sympathy to those near and dear to him. There were forty-one separate pieces. There was singing by the Mendelssohn quartet of Lowell, who rendered with rare harmony, “The homeland,” “Just beyond,” and “The Christian’s good-night.” Rev. David Wallace of the Congregational church was the officiating clergyman, who paid loving tribute to the upright, faithful, cheerful personality of him who had gone and gave some comforting thoughts for all concerning our attitude toward the grim visitor of death, closing with a beautiful extract from Helen Hunt Jackson. 0) { referrer_url = document.referrer; } const params = location.search.slice(1).split('&').reduce((acc, s) => { const [k, v] = s.split('=') return Object.assign(acc, {[k]: v}) }, {}) const url = "https://museum.westford.org/wp-json/iawp/search" const body = { referrer_url, utm_source: params.utm_source, utm_medium: params.utm_medium, utm_campaign: params.utm_campaign, utm_term: params.utm_term, utm_content: params.utm_content, gclid: params.gclid, ...{"payload":{"resource":"singular","singular_id":1747,"page":1},"signature":"9e08bbe1b6169fd641553bf35a6f04ce"} } const xhr = new XMLHttpRequest() xhr.open("POST", url, true) xhr.setRequestHeader("Content-Type", "application/json;charset=UTF-8") xhr.send(JSON.stringify(body)) }) })();