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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Annals and Reminiscences of Jamaica Plain
+by Harriet Manning Whitcomb
+
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+Title: Annals and Reminiscences of Jamaica Plain
+
+Author: Harriet Manning Whitcomb
+
+Release Date: December, 2004 [EBook #7046]
+[Yes, we are more than one year ahead of schedule]
+[This file was first posted on February 27, 2003]
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+Edition: 10
+
+Language: English
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+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ANNALS OF JAMAICA PLAIN ***
+
+
+
+
+This eBook was produced by Charlie Rosenberg.
+
+
+
+
+
+Annals and Reminiscences of Jamaica Plain
+
+By Harriet Manning Whitcomb
+
+Cambridge
+
+1897
+
+
+
+This sketch was prepared by request to be read before the Jamaica Plain
+Ladies' Tuesday Club. Subsequently a desire was expressed to have it put
+in a more permanent form and offered for sale at a Fair for the Jamaica
+Plain Indian Association. Although personally reluctant to appear before
+the public in this way, I have allowed my desire to aid a good cause and
+give pleasure to my friends who have kindly received my paper to
+influence me in its publication.
+
+I am indebted to "The Memorial History of Boston" to Drake's "Town of
+Roxbury," to Dr. Thomas Gray's "Half-Century Sermon," and to the memory
+of a few of the older residents for some dates and incidents given.
+
+If any of these should prove to be inaccurate, I must rely upon the
+charity and courtesy of my readers for only indulgent criticism.H.M.W.
+
+ANNALS AND REMINISCENCES OF JAMAICA PLAINTo collect and review the
+circumstances and events which have made our homes and those of our
+ancestors for many generations is more than a pleasant service. We find
+an interest and fascination in every step of the way, leading us, as it
+does, into one of the most delightful portions of our country, and
+introducing us to not a few of the most refined and cultivated, as well
+as distinguished people of New England.
+
+There is ever a charm about old-fashioned people and places, as about old
+books and pictures, antique furniture and china; they affect us by the
+very contrast they afford with ourselves and our surroundings, even
+though it is with a touch of pathos and sadness.
+
+Long years ago a much-traveled man, who knew the country well, said,
+"Jamaica Plain is the Eden of America." He was not a Bostonian, and our
+village was still a part of Roxbury, so that the suggestion of conceit
+and boasting over this small portion of "the Hub" could not be imputed to
+him.
+
+It has often seemed to us that the loving, favoring smile of heaven
+rested peculiarly upon our plain, environed as it is by gently rising
+hills, which, with their robes of verdure and noble trees, shelter it
+from harsh winds, and hold it in the warmth and freedom of a pure
+health-giving atmosphere. Our charming lake, covering more than
+sixty-five acres, nestles like a gem in its western borders, mirroring
+forms and colors, all of beauty, and holds upon its banks some of the
+most delightful of our homes.
+
+In early days it gave of its clear, soft waters for the needs of the
+neighboring city;  while through the eastern portion of our village the
+quiet Stony River made glad the farms and yielded power for mill and
+factory.
+
+We find that the name originally given to out village was Pond Plain, but
+as early as 1667, it is referred to in an official paper as the "Jamaica
+End of the Town of Roxbury."
+
+There are differing opinions as to the origin of the present name; some
+have so far reflected upon our colonial ancestors as to intimate that a
+decided fondness for Jamaica rum suggested it, and it is doubtless true
+that the punch bowl had other uses than to be simply ornamental on the
+sideboards of our grandsires. Others, however, believe that it was given
+to commemorate Cromwell's acquisition of the island of Jamaica, in 1670,
+which secured to Boston numerous very valuable products. There seems, to
+us, to be a peculiar appropriateness to the name, as it signified in
+Indian "Isle of Springs," because if the brooks and springs which abound
+here, making the land verdant and fertile. If we cannot to-day boast of
+grand and stately castles, reared in the olden time, as in the mother
+country, with guarding moats and bastions, loopholes for crossbows and
+guns, -- silent testimonials of opulence and power, -- we yet can bring
+to view pictures of many a dwelling, gray and brown with weather stains
+and lichens and folds of ivy, which have held within their walls of oak
+and cedar people and events whose records thrill our hearts with
+patriotic pride or affectionate reverence.
+
+In early times our village was chiefly an agricultural community, and the
+cultivation of fruits and vegetables for the city supply was the
+specialty; but here and there were elegant countryseats occupied by
+government officials, professional and literary men, and city merchants.
+Some of these homes and people we hope to see, by favoring records and
+memory's aid, this afternoon.
+
+Until within a short time, near the Boylston Station, stood a very
+ancient building, with a pitched roof in the rear sloping nearly to the
+ground, known as the "Curtis Homestead." It is claimed that this was one
+of the oldest houses in our country, and that, in 1639,  William Curtis
+made a clearing in the forest for it, using timbers in its construction
+from his felled trees. The record is that William Curtis marries Sarah
+Eliot, sister of Rev. John Eliot, in Nazing, England, in 1618, and that,
+in 1632, they came with their four children to Boston, and it is believed
+that most of those who bear the name of Curtis in our country are direct
+descendants of this William and Sarah. For about two hundred and fifty
+years this house was the home of the Curtises, the last occupants being
+the widow and children of Isaac, seventh in descent from William.
+
+During the siege of Boston, troops were quartered here and added their
+record of strife and suffering to that of domestic peace and happiness,
+in which the "Apostle Eliot" and his estimable wife often shared; and
+possibly Winthrop, Pynchon, and the Dudleys, and others whose names stand
+as pioneers of religious liberty in New England.
+
+Emerson aptly said, "There has never been a clearing made in a forest,
+that did not let in the light on heroes and heroines."
+
+A few years since, the march of improvement, so called, obliterated this
+genuine relic of colonial days, with the fine old elm, which for more
+that a century had shaded it and wafted kindly breezes over it.
+
+Although we have no knowledge that the Apostle Eliot ever lived in the
+"Jamaica End of Roxbury," he is closely identified with our early history
+and development, and deserves more than a passing notice. In 1689 he gave
+some seventy-five acres of land, including the tract lying from Orchard
+to Thomas, and from Centre to Pond streets, "the income from which was to
+be used for the support of a school and a schoolmaster." The street,
+hall, and schoolhouse, which bear his name, commemorate his generous
+gift. This noble man stands out in those early days as a beacon of
+godliness, for education, and for trust in philanthropy. Perhaps, in no
+sphere of his remarkable life does he more command our admiration and
+reverence that as the friend of the Indian and the Negro. His untiring
+zeal and self-denying labors on their behalf entitle him to be called
+"the Apostle."
+
+In a letter to a friend in 1659, he writes: "Pity for the poor Indian,
+and desire to make the name of Christ chief in these dark ends of the
+earth, and not the rewards of men, were the very first and chief movers
+in my heart." Nor can we question that these were the all controlling
+motives, when we consider that after acquiring their language, by the aid
+of a young Pequot, he translated the entire Bible into their tongue,
+besides a Psalter, primers, grammars, a and other useful books; and all
+this in addition to faithfully fulfilling the duties of minister of the
+First Church in Roxbury for fifty-eight years, a record of devotion,
+diligence, and scholarship almost unequaled.
+
+One has beautifully summed up his life in these words:  "His missionary
+zeal was not less that Saint Paul's, his charity was as sweet as that of
+Saint Francis d'Assisi, and his whole life a testimony that the call to
+saintliness has not ceased and the possibility of it has not died out."
+Eliot lived to see the fruits of his devoted work in the changed
+character and life of many Indians. More than two centuries have elapsed
+since this leader on the Indian cause went to his reward, but his mantle
+rests to-day on some here who deeply feel the need and love that work in
+behalf of the poor Indian.
+
+In 1663 our Centre Street was laid out and called the Dedham road or
+highway, being a direct route from Boston, by way of "the Neck" and
+Roxbury Street, to Dedham. At that time and for more than one hundred and
+fifty years after traveling was by horseback, by private carriage, and by
+the stagecoach. Those who were unable to own horses or pay stage fares
+walked to and from Boston, often heavily laden.
+
+The accommodation stages would stop for passengers along the route,
+blowing a horn as they approached the dwelling, wherever a signal had
+been placed for them. The express stages, used chiefly by business men,
+running from Providence and the New York boat, took no heavy baggage,
+required double pay, and made stops only as they needed relays of horses.
+Four such changes were made from Providence to Boston, and the journey
+was completed in about four hours. In 1826 the first Jamaica Plain
+hourlies   began to run; the fare was twenty-five cents. They started
+from Mr. Joshua Seaver's store, and would call for passengers in any part
+of the village as requested in the order-box.
+
+Mr. Seaver's store, established in 1796, stood on slightly elevated
+ground farther back from the street than the one now occupied by his
+grandsons, and connected with his dwelling.
+
+Here, also, was the village post-office for many years, and the favorite
+meeting-place of the townspeople to discuss local interests, indulge in
+pleasantries, as well as exchange their coins for fine groceries, small
+wares, and farming utensils. Our grandparents of that day folded their
+quarto sheets, sealed, stamped, and addressed them, and paid twelve and
+one-half cents for the privilege of sending then on their mission.  The
+advent of the two-cent postage stand and the one-cent card was not then
+dreamed of.
+
+Entering Centre Street at the Railroad bridge, frequently confounded with
+the historic Hog's Bridge, which formerly spanned Stony Brook near Heath
+Street, we see on the right all that remains of the once extensive and
+very beautiful estate of the Lowells, a family among the most honored in
+our State for character, learning, and culture. The original house, built
+of stone in the latter part of the last century, was modeled from an old
+castle in Europe, and became the property of Judge John Lowell in 1785,
+who resided here until his death in 1802. He was President of the
+Massachusetts Society for Promoting Agriculture, and his extensive
+grounds were largely devoted to the cultivation of a variety of the
+finest fruits and plants. His son, Hon. John Lowell, inherited this
+estate and the talent and fondness for horticulture and agriculture, and
+added several fine glass houses, which he filled with rare and beautiful
+plants, many of them imported from Europe and other foreign lands. He
+erected the present commodious mansion. The aged lady who occupied the
+house until recently was a sister of Dr. Charles Lowell, once minister of
+the West Church, Boston, and father of Hon. James Russell Lowell. The
+Lowell Institute for free lectures on scientific, literary, and religious
+theses was founded by John Lowell, Jr.
+
+In 1834, the Boston and Providence Railroad cut through this estate, and
+from time to time other innovations have despoiled it of its grandeur and
+beauty.
+
+We pass several ancient houses, with associations doubtless dear to the
+descendants of their first owners, but unknown to use, and come to Hyde's
+Square, and the intersection of Centre, Perkins, and Day streets. The
+triangle in the center, bordered with shade trees, had a valuable
+landmark on it, not a dwelling, but an old pump, which, if it could voice
+its memories, would tell is interesting tales of weary, dusty travelers,
+in vehicles, on horseback, and on foot, of state-coach horses, and those
+heavy-laden teams from far away, to which it had given its cooling,
+refreshing waters, through nearly every day and hour of bygone years.
+
+And now, after a few rods, we come to the well-preserved old farmhouse,
+the Joseph Curtis homestead, built in 1722 by Samuel Curtis, grandson of
+the first William, for his son Joseph. A descendant with the same name,
+and fifth in line from William, now resides here, while the broad acres
+adjoining, bordering the street with graceful elms, smile with the fruits
+of careful husbandry, and afford ample space for the beautiful homes of
+four generations of the same family. During the war of the Revolution
+troops, from Rhode Island, under General Greene, used this house for
+barracks, the family willingly giving up its space and comforts for their
+accommodation.
+
+On the corner of Centre and Boylston streets one is attracted by a quaint
+and picturesque dwelling, in style and setting one is the most
+interesting of the older houses in our town, which tells the story of its
+age on one of its chimneys, 1738 being the date. It was erected by
+Captain Benjamin Hallowell, who married a Miss Boylston, of Boston, whose
+family was prominent in its early history. He was a hot-headed, active
+loyalist, and commissioner of His Majesty's customs, as well as mandamus
+councilor, which facts made him obnoxious to the public, and in 1775,
+during the siege of Boston, he found it wise hastily to vacate his house
+and seek refuge in the city. The house was then appropriated by the
+patriotic troops doe a hospital, and some of the soldiers who died were
+buried in the lot in the rear of the house. Later the property was
+confiscated by the State, and, in 1791, bought by Dr. Leprilete, who
+resided here until his death. He also was buried in the garden, and a
+memorial tablet marked the grave until the remains were removed to a
+cemetery. Upon the death of Captain Hallowell in England, his widow
+reclaimed the estate. His son, Nicholas Ward, then took his mother's name
+of Boylston and inherited the property. Mr. Boylston was a gentleman of
+true culture, education, and philanthropy, making valuable donations to
+Harvard College, and to several schools. He is justly honored by having
+his name perpetuated not only by our street and district, but by a bank,
+market, school and street in the city proper. Dr. Benjamin F. Wing
+purchased this property in 1845, and it has remained in his family to the
+present time.
+
+In 1797, just one hundred years ago, was erected the stately brick
+mansion which, with the ample grounds extending to the pond, was called
+"Lakeville." Mr. Du Ballet first resided here; later it was the home of
+Horatio Greenough, the sculptor, and it is said that he carved his
+celebrated group, "The Chanting Cherubs," while living here. In 1840
+Lakeville Place was opened, dividing this estate, and later made
+beautiful by the several residences upon it. Since 1842, the Lakeville
+Mansion has been the home of Mr. Thomas Seaverns and Family. The
+inception of the Episcopal Church in our village was largely due to Mr.
+Charles Beaumont, father of Mr. Frank Beaumont, who resided in the
+Lakeville mansion in 1833. The first services were held here, and later
+in the Village Hall on Thomas Street, Rev. Mr. Howe of St. James Church,
+Roxbury, officiating. In 1840 a lot of land was purchased of Mr. Charles
+Beaumont on the site of the present St. John Street, and a chapel built
+which was consecrated on 1841 by Bishop Griswold. The rectory was
+completed in 1849, and "was paid for, in large part, with money raised by
+the exertion of the Ladies' League." Many of us remember the attractive
+avenue, bordered with greensward and graceful elms, which led to the
+little brown church and rectory, the retirement of its situation seeming
+to be suited to its purpose of worship and quietness. The membership was
+very small at first, but in a few years it became the church home of some
+of the most influential people on our town. Rev. E.F. Slafter was the
+first regularly settled rector, assuming his duties September 1846. The
+beautiful stone edifice erected upon land bequeathed by General William
+H. Sumner, son of Governor Increase Sumner, was ready for the enlarged
+church congregation in 1882.
+
+General Sumner's old residence on the hill near the present church is
+beautiful in situation, and still very attractive.
+
+Near the north corner of Pond Lane was built in 1732, a plain,
+comfortable house by Benjamin May, great grandson of Captain John May,
+one of the earliest settlers of our village. Captain John Parker married
+the daughter of Benjamin May, and afterwards resided here for many years
+which accounts for its still holding the name of the "Old Parker house."
+Here were the high-decorated wooden mantels over large chimney-places,
+the paneled wainscoting and ornamental cornices, which adorned many of
+the better houses of that period. The grounds were ample, extending to
+the pond and covered with a variety of fine fruit and shade trees. Now
+crowded by modern buildings into the background, deprived of its garden
+gray with weather stains, this old house shows few signs of its
+birthright. About the middle of this century the small cottage still
+standing on the lot adjoining the Parker house was the quiet home of two
+much esteemed old ladies, Mrs. Shepard and her daughter Abby. Miss
+Abigail P. Shepard died October 4, 1878 at 82 years of age. The mother
+was then totally blind, but possessed the sweet contentment which not
+even so great a deprivation and trial could affect. Miss Abby devoted the
+little front room to a store for small wares, school children's utensils,
+and candies and it was the delight of the girls and boys to leave their
+coppers there in exchange for her good things.
+
+Some of you may recall an episode connected with this home which might
+have had a tragic ending. Because of the unprotected condition, and the
+drawer in which the small receipts from the store were kept and unworthy
+young man, belonging to our village, planned a midnight entrance. Miss
+Abby heard the window raised, and, in her night robe and cap, faced the
+intruder, just as he entered the room. She dragged the surprised and
+struggling man into the front room, and held him fast, meanwhile calling
+loudly for help. The aged mother secured a window stick and dealt
+unerring blows upon the youth. After a desperate struggle, he escaped
+carrying a window frame and many bruises with him, but no money. The
+neighbors were aroused by Miss Shepard's cried and came to her relief.
+
+We may safely say that not since the days of the Revolution had the
+midnight silence and peace of the village been disturbed by so exciting
+an experience. The friends of Miss Shepard presented her with a large,
+illustrated Bible in appreciation of her courage and bravery.
+
+On the west corner of Pond and Centre streets stands a large mansion
+house of colonial style, with an air of quiet dignity, in the midst of
+attractive grounds. In the early days it was called "Linden Hall,"
+doubtless because of the magnificent linden-trees which lined the walk to
+the entrance and shaded the grounds. John Gould erected it in 1755 for
+his son-in-law Rev. John Troutbeck, assistant rector of King's Chapel,
+where he officiated for twenty years.
+
+He was an ardent loyalist and returned to England in 1776. As an example
+of the change in public sentiment with the lapse of time, we learn that
+this noted clergyman was a distiller as well, of whom a witty rhymster
+wrote:--
+
+"His Sunday aim is to reclaim
+Those that in vice are sunk.
+When Monday's come he selleth rum,
+And gets them plaguey drunk."
+
+This fine estate, extending then in the rear to the pond, was later owned
+by Mr. Charles W. Greene a descendant of General Nathaniel Greene, of
+revolutionary war fame. He enlarged the house and large wings, and
+established a successful boarding and day school for lads fitting many of
+them for college. Possibly some here may recall that in the school
+building and the grounds the first Papanti taught some of the parents of
+the rising generation to dance.
+
+Among the men, since famous, who graduated from this school, are John
+Lathrop Motley, the historian, and George William Curtis, the elegant
+writer and able editor. The scenes and characters in Mr. Curtis's novel
+"Trumps" were drawn from our village. Dr. Randall, of Roxbury, but
+recently deceased, who bequeathed $70,000 to Harvard University, was
+early a student at the school, and also the two brothers of Margaret
+fuller, one of whom was afterwards a clergyman and a chaplain in the
+Union Army. Mrs. Greene is referred to in an interesting article recently
+written by a graduate of the school, as one "for whom no need of praise
+could scarcely be excessive, as she was in sober truth a mother to every
+lad committed to her care."
+
+This property was next purchased by the brothers John and George
+Williams, who resided there for several years.
+
+On the opposite side of Centre Street, near Green Street, can to-day be
+seen a two-story cottage, with pointed roofs and dormer windows which in
+our day has been known as the Calvin Young house. This building with its
+fresh paint and modern style can yet trace its history through a century
+and a half of years. It was originally owned by Eleazer May who sold it
+in 1740 to Benjamin Faneuil, nephew of Peter Faneuil, and in 1760 it
+became the property of his brother-in-law Benjamin Pemberton.
+
+We may readily believe that Peter Faneuil -- the Huguenot who in 1740
+erected and gave to the town of Boston the noted hall which bears his
+name -- often shared in the comforts and joys of this home of his niece,
+Mrs. Susanna Pemberton. About the year 1802, this estate was purchased by
+Dr. John C. Warren, son of Dr. John Warren, and nephew of General Joseph
+Warren, hero of Bunker Hill, for a summer residence. He was one of the
+most distinguished surgeons of our country, and for many years professor
+of anatomy and surgery at the Harvard Medical School. His name was
+honored in the recent ether celebration, he having performed the first
+surgical operation under ether in 1846, and to his sanction it owed its
+introduction throughout America and Europe.
+
+The dwelling was at that time constructed after the West Indian style,
+with one and a half front and two in the rear. An immense chimney
+buttressed the north side; a hall extended that the center of the house,
+with doors opening on to piazzas at both ends; the windows in the front
+rooms extended to the floor, all conducing to make it an ideal summer
+home. The elm, linden, and horse-chestnut trees near the house were
+remarkable for size and symmetry.
+
+Dr. Warren beautified the grounds with rare plants and shrubs imported
+from Europe; the extended over many acres, including the present Hill,
+Parley Vale, Burrage, and Harris estates, and to the line of the
+Providence Railroad. Captain Charles Hill purchased a portion of this
+estate about the year 1830, and Mr. Calvin Young the residence in 1837,
+with the radical alterations in the house, which are apparent to-day,
+were made.
+
+About the year 1828, the Warren estate became the property of Samuel G.
+Goodrich, author of many histories, books of travel, school and story
+books, the kindly, well-loved Peter Parley of our childhood. What a
+delight it would be to welcome one more the monthly visit of "Merry
+Museum and Parley's Magazine," to read the charming letters to "Billy
+Bump," and the adventures of Gilbert Go Ahead, and puzzle out the
+charades and enigmas which tested out youthful wits! It was Mr. Goodrich
+who cut the fine avenue through the ledges and woodland, and erected the
+ample mansion in the grove, which later, because of financial
+embarrassment, he transferred to Colonel Fessenden, and ultimately became
+the property of Mr. Abram French. Then it was that Mr. Goodrich enlarged
+and improved the building which had been his gardener's cottage, among
+the quaint and unique house now owned by Mr. George Harris. here he
+resided for several years, accomplishing a large amount of literary work,
+which repaired his fortune, so that on his return form Paris, where he
+was United States Ambassador, under President Fillmore, he purchased a
+country-seat in Jube's Lane, now Forest Hills Street. Mr. Goodrich was in
+Paris at the time of the abdication of Louis Philippe, was an intimate
+friend of M. Lamartine, and was of great service through his wise
+diplomacy. Many of his works were afterwards translated into French by M.
+de Boisson. While a resident here he was interested in local affairs, and
+was genial in his relations with every one. It is related that on an
+occasion of a Fourth of July celebration, he gave an after dinner toast,
+"To the ladies of Jamaica Plain, not so very plain either!" Here we are
+tempted to linger for a little longer. We may not be permitted to enter
+within the precincts of many of the old homes on our town, to view the
+veritable memorials and relics of early days, but such has been the
+privilege of some of us in connection with the Harris home. Through many
+generations of education and culture, treasures in books and music and
+pictures, in furniture, plate, and china, have been collected and
+preserved, until the home has become verily a museum of rare and
+beautiful works, whose possessor is eminently suited to these delightful
+surroundings.
+
+Nor can we fail to offer and appreciative and loving tribute to the two
+sisters who have long been among our most learned and accomplished women,
+and have exemplified through their long lives the quiet beauty and
+loveliness of true charity. The beautiful hill with the adjacent vale on
+occupied by the estates of Mrs. Hook, Mrs. Pratt, and Mr. and Mrs.
+Charles F. Sprague, was in the early days the Harris homestead. Here Dr.
+Luther M. Harris, the father, was born. Some of us remember his as the
+valued family physician, who, when burdened with the infirmities of age,
+gave up his practice to Dr. George Faulkner.
+
+One of the most interesting and attractive of the ancestral homes still
+standing, in this vicinity, is the Greenough mansion, finely situated on
+the curve of Centre and South streets. It has an air of dignity and
+spaciousness which many a more portentous modern countryseat fail to
+match. Although it has been home to five generations of the Greenough
+family, -- since about the year 1780, -- its history antedates their
+ownership by many years. This estate was originally of royal dimensions,
+covering about one hundred acres, and belonged to John Polley. In 1752,
+it was purchased by Commodore Joshua Loring, one of the Tory gentry, who
+a few years later built the present house (1758), the frame having been
+brought from England. Commodore Loring was a native of Roxbury and did
+gallant service in the British navy, in the campaigns against Canada. He
+was severely wounded at the siege of Quebec while in command on Lake
+Ontario, and was retired on half pay when he came to live here. Although
+probably at heart in sympathy with those who resisted the injustice of
+the English government, for personal reasons he adhered to the royal
+cause, and, on the morning of the battle of Lexington, he left his home
+and everything belonging to it, and mounting his horse, "with pistol in
+hand, rode at full speed to Boston." He never returned, but sailing to
+England soon after settled in Highgate. During the siege of Boston this
+house was the headquarters of General Greene, and has the honor of having
+been visited by General George Washington. Colonel David Henley, who had
+charge of Burgoyne's captive army while at Cambridge, also occupied this
+house at one time. For a while, it was converted into a hospital fore the
+Roxbury Camp, and some fifty of the soldiers who died here were buried on
+the grounds, near where the Hillside schoolhouse now stands. The remains
+have since been removed to the old burial ground on Walter Street. This
+property also was confiscated, by order of the General Court of April 30,
+1779, and was then purchased by Colonel Isaac Sears, a successful Boston
+merchant, who had been one of the most active and zealous of the Sons of
+Liberty, and a member of the Provincial Congress. Soon after ( in 1784)
+it became to property of the first David Stoddard Greenough, son of
+Thomas Greenough, who had been a member of the Committee of
+Correspondence in the Revolution.
+
+It was in 1769 that the first church in our village was built, upon land
+given by Eliot, -- on the site of the present stone edifice, -- and names
+the Third Parish, from its relation to the First Parish on Dudley Street
+and the Second or Upper Parish on Walter Street. And it was to Mrs.
+Susanna, wife of Benjamin Pemberton, that it owed its origin. The
+distance from the other churches, and consequent inconvenience of regular
+attendance, led her to desire a nearer church home. She proposed to her
+husband, who possessed large means and had no children or near relations,
+that they should erect a house of worship, principally at their own
+expense. He heartily engaged on the project, "and in the course of a year
+the house was completed, with thirty-four square pews, and three long
+seats for the poor on each side the broad aisle nest the pulpit on the
+ground floor. There were five narrow long pews [for the colored people,
+several of them slaves] in the front gallery against the wall, and long
+seats for the singers below."
+
+The Rev. William Gordon, a Scotchman by birth, entered upon his duties as
+first pastor, July 6, 1772. A few months later Mr. Pemberton conveyed to
+the parish the house which had been removed from Commodore Loring's
+estate to the site now occupied by Mrs. Dr. weld's house, next to the
+church for a parsonage. It was occupied by Mr. Gordon during the
+remainder of his pastorate, and by Dr. Thomas Gray, the second pastor,
+for sixty years.  In 1851 the old house was moved to South Street, and
+later to Keyes Street, where it still stands. On account of a
+disagreement with Dr. Gordon, Mr. Pemberton altered his will, in which he
+had first bequeathed all of his property to this parish "for the support
+of his future pastors," and left it "in trust for the benefit of the poor
+of the town of Boston;" and the income of the fund is still used for this
+specific purpose. Pemberton Square, once lined with many of the fine
+residences in Boston, and now the site of our new court-house, honors his
+name.
+
+The first bell on the old church was presented by Governor John Hancock,
+in 1783, then a resident here, and bore the inscription, "Thomas Lester,
+of London, made me, 1742." We can readily appreciate the happiness of the
+people when first called to their house of worship by the voice of this
+bell, and can weave threads of joy and of sadness around its echoes, In
+1852 this old church was dismantled of its spire and removed to the site
+of the present Eliot Hall. It was subsequently destroyed by fire. While
+the stone edifice was being erected the congregation occupied the Baptist
+Church one half of the Sabbath.
+
+We find Dr. William Gordon a very interesting character of the strict
+Puritan type. In a word-picture drawn by a friend, we see him
+commissioned by Congress to secure Governor Hutchinson's Letter-books,
+"as he ambled on his gentle bay horse, in his short breeches and buckled
+shoes, his reverend wig and three-cornered hat, worthy the spirit of a
+native-born patriot." It may not be amiss to add that will all Dr.
+Gordon's admirable characteristics, his faithful work as a minister, his
+active interest in the cause of American liberty, his unwavering
+adherence to his convictions as an opponent to the slave trade, and a
+champion of the Negro, he frequently lacked prudence and good judgment in
+speech and action. It was because of his severe and public criticism of
+John Hancock that the governor gave up his summer residence here; it was
+because of his attack upon the proposed Constitution of Massachusetts, in
+1778, that he was summarily dismissed from his office if chaplain in both
+houses of the Legislature. There is a tradition that the Doctor was
+somewhat strict and severe in his requirements of the young catechists,
+and on occasions he resorted to the birch to enforce his teachings.
+"After punishing several of them one winter day, his feet slipped as he
+stepped from the icy threshold of the school, and he fell at full length,
+his hat and wig rolling off his head. There-upon the boys shouted in high
+glee, and gave three cheers." The rod gave place to persuasion after that
+experience.
+
+The little cemetery in the rear of the church was consecrated in 1785. A
+quiet walk through this "garden of the dead" is full of interest,
+awakening memories as association of the past. There are twenty-four
+tombs and many graves upon whose ancient, moss-covered headstones we
+trace familiar names and some unusual epitaphs. The tombs of Dr. Thomas
+Gray and the Greenough family, side by side, are particularly noticeable,
+as, unlike the others, they have a large bull's-eye of ground glass
+inserted in the doors, evidently to admit light into "the chamber of
+death." Very few interments gave been made there since the consecration
+of Forest Hills Cemetery in 1848. Upon the small triangular lot at the
+junction of Centre and South streets the first schoolhouse in our village
+was erected in 1676. The land was the gift of John Ruggles, and John
+Eliot and Hugh Thomas were the principal benefactors of the school. In
+the early days this spot was the municipal center of our town; and here,
+in 1871, was dedicated our beautiful Soldiers' Monument, in affectionate,
+grateful remembrance of our heroic dead, who gave their lives in the
+service of their country during the Rebellion (1861-65). Eliot Street was
+opened to Pond Street in 1800, and at the corner still stands an old
+milestone, inscribed: "Five miles to Boston Town House, 1735. P. Dudley."
+
+The Eliot School was incorporated in 1804, and later, January 17,1832,
+the brick building was dedicated which now stands on Eliot Street in the
+center of ample grounds.
+
+Within a few months we have witnesses with feelings of regretful interest
+the decay and removal of the old house known to us as the Nathaniel
+Curtis homestead. This estate once belonged to Dr. Lemuel Hayward, a
+physician of high repute, and one of the first to practice inoculation
+for small-pox in this vicinity. He practiced medicine here for several
+years. About the year 1780, John Hancock, after he resigned the
+presidency of Congress, purchased this place of Dr. Hayward for his
+summer residence. He paid for it seven or eight shares in Long Wharf
+property, amounting them in all to about $400, but at the time of Dr.
+Hayward's decease, in 1821, valued at $100,000, -- a striking evidence of
+growth and financial prosperity in less then fifty years. We learn that
+the house was, like many of that period, one story and a half in height,
+covering much space on the ground, and shaded by fine linden-trees. We
+love to tarry here and do grateful honor to this first governor of our
+new State, who, during our country's struggles for freedom, was one of
+the most fearless opposers of British tyranny, one of the most active
+patriots, and the first signer of the declaration of Independence. He was
+of fine, dignified presence, six feet in height, with a very handsome
+face and gracious manners. In public speaking he was eloquent, graceful
+and accomplished, and plainly formed by nature to act a brilliant part in
+the affairs of his time. According to the customs of that period with men
+of fortune, his apparel was very elaborate and costly, of velvet and
+satin, embroidered with gold and silver lace. "His equipage was splendid,
+and public occasions he rode with six beautiful bay horses and attended
+by servants in livery." Mach of his large fortune was spent for
+benevolent and useful purposes, Harvard College coming in for a share. In
+the year 1800, Thomas Hancock, nephew of the Governor, built the house
+which has recently been destroyed, and resided here until 1819, when the
+estate was purchased by Mr. Nathaniel Curtis, fifth in descent from the
+first William Curtis. He was a merchant of Boston, highly esteemed, and
+filled various positions of trust on our town. He resided here during the
+remainder if his life, a period of thirty-eight years, and died in 1857.
+He married for his second wife the widow Leeds, who at the time was
+living in the old Stephen Brewer house, still standing at the end of
+Thomas Street, and which was afterwards for several years the home of Mr.
+William D. Ticknor, of the publishing house of Ticknor & Fields. Mrs.
+Curtis lived in the old house for many years after he husband's death,
+until we missed the gentle, sweet face, and the kindly, cordial greetings
+-- and the home was desolate.
+
+More that two hundred and fifty years have passed since the first John
+May, master of a vessel, came from Mayfield, in Sussex, England, and
+became a resident of Jamaica Plain, and the ancestor of the many who bear
+the name of May in this country. In 1650 the old house on May's Lane was
+built by Mr. Bridge, and since 1771 it has been owned and occupied by the
+direct descendents of John May. It has always been a typical New England
+fruit farm, noted for the fine quality of its cherries, peaches, pears,
+apples, and berries of various kinds. In the early days it covered many
+acres, including the beautiful hill now occupied by the fine estates of
+the Bowditch family and others, and the lowlands, extending north and
+east to Pond and Eliot streets. During the siege of Boston, the house was
+given up to soldiers for barracks. Captain Lemuel May was one of the
+minute-men who responded to the reveille at the break of day on the 19th
+of April, 1775, and fought valiantly for his country at Lexington and
+concord. This house, of the seventeenth-century pattern, has maintained
+its original features until very recently, carefully preserved from any
+sign of neglect or decay. Possibly a hasty view of the interior of tee
+old homestead will interest us. Entering by the front porch, we find the
+small, square entry open through narrow doorways into low studded,
+irregular shaped rooms, with overhead and corner beams and wainscoted
+sides, triangular cupboards and dressers and convenient little shelves.
+There are high wooden mantels adorned with specimens of antique china and
+brasses over the large bricked fireplaces. In one room an iron crane with
+kettles suspended on chains, swings over the fire-dogs piled with logs,
+and on both sides hang quaint domestic utensils. The narrow stairway,
+from he little entry, had a halfway landing to economize space, and leads
+to cozy apartments above, all interesting for their antique furniture and
+family relics.
+
+[interior fireplace of May house]
+
+And now a glance at the old square barn east of the house and more
+pretentious in size than the dwelling, with wide doors opening at both
+ends, and lofts stacked with fragrant hay. This is the comfortable home
+of faithful horses and gentle kine, who looked from their stalls and
+stanchions on the youths and maidens who often made the walls resound
+with their merriment and they were borne quickly past in the old swing
+hanging from the creaking rafters.
+
+The well-curb, with its long sweep and old oaken bucket, brings memories,
+to some of us, of refreshing droughts of pure water, and of delicious
+cream and butter rolls, which the moss-covered stone shelves far down the
+well held securely from possible taint. Back of the house ran the
+babbling brook and emptied into "the ditch," which was often broad and
+deep enough to merit a more comely name, and was the favorite resort of
+the young in winter for skating and sledding. But this ancestral home,
+with all its charms, had passed from view, like man others, leaving but
+cherished memories.
+
+Captain Charles Brewer, whose fine estate on Pond Street was originally a
+part of the May form, was a lineal descendant of Captain John May, on his
+mother's side. He was born in Boston in 1804, and received his education
+there, but early developed baa fondness for the sea, and for several
+years was a successful ship-master in the Pacific and East India trade.
+In 1836 he established a shipping business in Honolulu, and in 1846
+returned with his family to this country, and became a resident of
+Jamaica Plain.  Soon after he erected the commodious mansion in the midst
+of highly cultivated grounds, which was his home during the remainder of
+his life.
+
+Mr. Edward Bridge was one of the earliest settlers of the town, and it is
+believed that he built the house, which has recently been taken down by
+the Park Commission, near the corner of Centre and May Streets. The date
+1710 was found cut into one of the old timbers, which is still preserved.
+
+Mr. Abijah Seaverns, grandfather of our townsman, resided here with his
+family for many years. The original Seaverns homestead, owned by Mr. Joel
+Seaverns, the ancestor of the family, was upon a farm of some fifty-five
+acres, now included in Forest Hills cemetery. In this old house, during
+the later years of Mrs. Abijah Seaverns' life, a small band of the
+Baptist faith met frequently for religious meetings, and in 1840 took
+steps to form a church. Soon after they began to worship in the Village
+Hall, and in 1842 the public services of their recognition were held in
+the Unitarian Church, in which Rev. Mr. Gray then ministered. On October
+4, 1843, the new house of worship was dedicated, and on the same day Dr.
+John O. Choules, an Englishman, was installed as pastor. The little
+church stood on elevated ground on the east side of Centre Street near
+Star Lane. On September 26, 1856, the church was destroyed by fire, with
+its furniture, library, and records. For two years the congregation used
+the Unitarian house of worship one half of the Sabbath, and the Mather
+(now Central) Church for evening meetings, accepting the very king
+invitations which came from both societies while the fire was still
+burning. In August 1859, the present house of worship on the corner of
+Centre and Myrtle streets was dedicated.
+
+Following May Street to Pond Street, we come to the beautiful estate now
+owned by Mr. Edward Rice, and formerly by Mr. John J. Low, and here ready
+fancy rears again the vanished walls of a stately mansion, three stories
+in height, first occupied by another of the Tory gentry, Sir Francis
+Barnard, the royal governor of Massachusetts from 1760 to 1769, -- the
+period of our greatest historic interest. The beautiful sloping lawn,
+shaded with lofty English elms, gave a charming setting to the house,
+while broad acres highly cultivated, filled with choice fruit trees,
+plants, and shrubs, including orange, lemon, fig, cork, and cinnamon
+trees, and other rare exotics, added grandeur and beauty to the
+landscape. One can easily call back the old-time scenes within this
+mansion, of stately official pomp, of social gayety, of dinners and
+balls, where the brocade and stain and lace, in towering head-gear, and
+ample panniers; and where the cavaliers rivaled the ladies in their
+powered wigs, gorgeous velvet coats and stain waistcoats, ruffled
+shirt-fronts, small breeches and silken hose. We catch a glimpse of them
+as they troop through the broad hall (fifty-four feet long and twenty
+feet wide), and the wainscoted tapestried rooms, on the stately minuet or
+the livelier contra-dances, and possibly recognize the forms and faces of
+Adams, Hancock, Otis, Warren, and Quincy. Governor Barnard was an
+Englishman, a graduate of Oxford, a man of erudition and large wealth. He
+had remarkable conversational powers, and so tenacious a memory that he
+boasted he could repeat all of Shakespeare's plays. He was a zealous
+advocate of the claims of the Crown, and through professing to sympathize
+with the men associated with him in their resistance to unjust taxation,
+and other coercive measures to the royal government, he secretly worked
+against them, and used his influence to have the British regiments sent
+to Boston, and thus initiated the war. After holding his high office for
+nearly ten years, he was recalled to England, in response to a petition
+from the House of Representatives that "he might be forever removed from
+the Government of the Province." As he departed from Boston the bells
+were rung, cannon fired from the wharves, and the Liberty Tree hung gaily
+with flags; so great was to joy of the people to be rid of him. Lady
+Bernard did not leave Jamaica Plain until a year later -- in 1770. Sir
+William Pepperell was the next resident of this house for about three
+years. He was a graduate of Harvard, and, in 1776, became a member of the
+Council, and was avowedly in sympathy with the royal cause. During the
+siege this house was also occupied by the patriotic troops, and later
+used as a hospital. The soldiers who died here were buried on the hill in
+the rear of the house. This property was confiscated in 1779 by the
+State, and purchased by Mr. Martin Brimmer, a Boston merchant, who died
+here in 1804. Captain John Prince next owned it, and took down the old
+house, a part of which had stood one hundred and forty years, and erected
+a very attractive mansion which has recently given place to the one now
+occupied by Mr. Rice. Mr. Prince opened the street, which bears his name
+through his estate to Perkins Street, and it has since been the seat of
+several beautiful residences.
+
+The summer home of Francis Parkman, LL.D., on Prince Street, deserves
+more than passing notice, no only because of his great prominence as an
+historian and writer an scientific horticulture, but for the remarkable
+beauty of the grounds lying along the chores of the lake and covered with
+luxuriant and rare shrubs, trees, and plants, many of them models of
+symmetry and loveliness. One cannot but regret that this homestead had
+not been preserved in its completeness, as a memorial of this
+distinguished man.
+
+The old Jonas Chickering estate adjoining Mr. Parkman's, with its lovely
+water-front, its unique Gothic buildings, its vine-covered lodge, and its
+deer-park, was, in our early days, one of the most charming of our
+country seats.
+
+Pinebank, the home of the Perkins family for nearly a century, with its
+broad, winding avenue, beneath noble pine and larches, its stately
+mansion its many rich landscape features, claims admiration for its
+grandeur and nobility.
+
+Returning to South Street, we find that in early days different branches
+of the Weld family owned and lived upon estates in this portion of our
+village. The largest and most important of these was the estate which was
+given to Captain Joseph Weld by the province, about the year 1660, in
+consideration of services rendered. It was bequeathed by him to his son,
+John, and was the home of seven generations of that family, until about
+the beginning of this century (1806), when it became the property of Mr.
+Benjamin Bussey. During the Revolutionary War, Weld's Hill was selected
+by Washington as a rallying point for the patriot army to fall back upon
+in case of disaster, as it protected the road to Dedham, the depot of
+army supplies. Mr. Bussey, after a few years, erected the fine mansion,
+still standing, and resided here until his death, in 1842. The late Mr.
+Thomas Motley, brother of the historian, was the husband of one of Mr.
+Bussey's granddaughters, and occupied the house with his family until his
+decease. This magnificent estate of three hundred acres was bequeathed to
+Harvard University for the establishment of a seminary "for instruction
+in practical agriculture, useful and ornamental gardening, botany, and
+such other branches of natural science as may tend to promote a knowledge
+of practical agriculture and the various arts subservient thereto and
+connected therewith." The Bussey Institute was built in 1871, and the
+beautiful Arboretum, embracing one hundred and sixty acres, has been in
+the process of development since that time. During Mr. Bussey's; life,
+and for years after, the public enjoyed the freedom of these charming
+grounds. There were lovely wood paths, carefully kept, in all directions.
+Here was a rustic bridge spanning the jocund brook; there a
+willow-bordered pond, the home of gold and silver fish. This path wound
+back and forth to then summit of Hemlock Mountain, where was an arbor
+with seats for resting surrounded by majestic trees, and where lovely
+vistas of the distant hills and nearer valley could be enjoyed, On the
+gray rocks yonder were nature's moss-clad seats, where one listened to
+the endless whispering of the leaves, the prattle of the happy brook
+below, and the ever-changing songs of birds.
+
+"Up springs, at every step, to claim a tear,
+Some little friendship formed in childhood here;
+And not the lightest leaf but trembling teems,
+With golden visions and romantic dreams."
+
+Mr. Bussey's life is a remarkable illustration of the success, which
+results from natural ability and persevering industry. With very small
+pecuniary means in early life, he made the most of every condition and
+advantage, and ultimately acquired large wealth and influence. Possibly
+some here may remember the family coach, with its yellow body and
+trimmings, drawn by four fine horses, in which Mr. Bussey and his family
+rode to church each Sabbath. There is a pleasing tradition that the old
+gentleman had the unusual but very gracious habit of bowing to people
+near him on all sides in the church before taking his seat in the square
+pew. On the occasion of President Andrew Jackson's visit to Boston,
+accompanied by Vice-President Van Buren, in June 1833, Mr. Bussey joined
+the grand procession in his yellow coach, drawn by six horses, richly
+caparisoned, and attended by liveried servants.
+
+On the opposite side of South Street one sees the very attractive house
+known to us as the Peters homestead, which, in 1799, was built by Captain
+William Gordon Weld. About three years after making this home, Captain
+Weld was lost at sea, leaving his widow, who was a sister of Judge
+William Minot, with a large family of sons and daughters, who have been
+very prominent in the interests and development of our town. Mrs. Weld is
+remembered with great respect and admiration for her character and life
+work. She lived to a great age, happy in the prosperity and the loving
+devotion of her children. We recall the beautiful the touching scene when
+her form was carried on the bier by her noble sons, followed by the other
+mourners, all walking from her house to the family tomb in the little
+church cemetery, and lovingly laid at rest, without the touch of a
+stranger hand.
+
+Soon after Captain William Weld's death, the estate was purchased by a
+Mr. Wilson, who resided here for a few years, Mr. Horatio Greenough, the
+sculptor, also lived here when young, and it is believed that he took his
+first lessons in art of Binon, the French sculptor, in this house, In
+1829 Mr. Edward Peters purchased it for a summer residence, and it is
+still occupied by his descendants, This house in the finest specimen of
+the West Indian style in the vicinity. Stony Brook runs through the dell
+back of the garden, with a line of fine old oaks and butternut-trees on
+its banks. Years since, when trenching the land, the smooth bed of the
+broad Stony River was reached, into which some of the large trees had
+fallen and lain imbedded in the mud, well preserved. A perfect beaver dam
+was also discovered there, and marks of beavers' teeth on some of the
+trees. Various Indian relics have been unearthed in different parts of
+the place.
+
+About the year 1827, Mr. Stephen M. Weld, son of Captain William G. Weld,
+established a boarding-school for young men on the site of the present
+residence of his family, the corner of South and Centre streets, which
+was very successful during thirty years, pupils coming from many of the
+States and from Mexico, Cuba, and Yucatan. Weld Hall, connected with
+Harvard College, was erected by William F. Weld, in memory of his brother
+Stephen Minot Weld. Dr. Christopher Weld, another son of Captain Weld,
+was the first homoeopathic physician here, and was much esteemed and
+beloved during his long practice.
+
+Upon the site of the present Seaverns mansion, on Morton Street, near
+Washington Street, stood the old house of the gifted and scholarly
+Margaret Fuller between the years 1839 and 1842. Her father had died a
+short time before, and her mother, sister (the late Mrs. Walter
+Channing), and two brothers made with her the household. In this quiet,
+rural home, Margaret found time and inspiration for many of her charming
+outdoors sketches. She often wandered through the lovely walks in Bussey
+Woods, soft with fallen needles from pine and hemlock, and bright with
+abundant wild flowers, and drew glowing pictures from nature's wealth,
+which her pen has preserved for us. It was while living here she
+inaugurated the literary conversations, which produced such a marked
+effect upon the young and old of the women of the time. They were weekly
+meetings for free conversation on literary and aesthetic topics at which
+she was the principal talker. They began in the autumn of 1839 at the
+home of Miss Elizabeth P. Peabody, on West Street, Boston, and continued
+through five successive winters. It was also while here that she edited
+"The Dial," a quarterly journal, in which she was aided by Ralph Waldo
+Emerson, Theodore Parker, George Ripley, and others. In this old house
+Ralph Waldo Emerson boarded for a time with a Mrs. Tilden, who afterward
+had a young ladies' boarding school at the Cold Spring House on
+Washington Street, opposite Green Street. In Franklin Park, on
+Schoolmaster's Hill, may now be seen a bronze tablet, inserted in a
+boulder, which records the fact that Mr. Emerson lived in a farmhouse in
+that spot for two years, from 1823 to 1825. The home of Rev, James
+Freeman Clarke, D. D., on Hillside Avenue, has a lasting interest,
+because of the noble, beautiful souls who thought and worked there, and
+gave by spoken and written words strength and counsel and comfort to
+many.
+
+Returning to Centre Street, we pass south from Eliot Street, and look
+with interest upon the old Williams house, a commodious, square building
+with central porch and balustrade along the roofline, built in 1805 by
+Stephen Gorham, a Boston merchant. It was for many years the attractive
+home of Mr. Moses Williams and family and is still in their possession.
+
+The old Hallet, Seaverns, Balch, and Louder homes, all suggest
+interesting and valuable memories, which we would gladly record did our
+limits permit. But we are tempted to spare a few moments doe a stroll
+through Louder's Lane. Many times have we proved the truth of Young's
+words: "How blessing brighten as they take their flight!" and they ring
+in our hearts to-day as we wander into this picturesque old way; and we
+love even more dearly than of yore the quiet, the grassy sides, the wild
+growths of roses and blackberry-bushes, the tangle of ivy and woodbine,
+and the lovely vistas through leafy framings of sunny hillsides and
+woods, of pastures dotted with grazing cattle, and of peaceful farm
+homes. It is a country idyll, sweet and restful! We may slacken our
+horses reins while he crops the wayside grass, or we may sit on a fallen
+stone from the old wall, while we muse of early days when there was no
+turnstile to block our path, but we should wander on around the loops of
+Sargent's woods, and gather at will the blue and white violets, the
+anemones and columbines and cowslips, without a fear of brass-buttoned
+monitor or coasting wheelman.
+
+We see again the dignified form of Manlius Sargent in his stately horse,
+as he rode through his wood-roads, and many another familiar face of
+those who sought these rural paths, and cared not yet for "rapid
+transit," with its spectral accompaniments. And our hope is akin to a
+prayer, that what is left of Louder's Lane may be spared to us yet many
+years.
+
+The old Winchester house, on the hillside of Centre Street, was built in
+the year 1800 by Captain Artemas Winchester, grandfather of the third
+Artemas, now residing here, for his young bride, Miss Anna Fuller, and it
+was their home through their long lives.
+
+In early days, whenever a new dwelling was begun, the neighborhood
+volunteered their services, prepared and stoned the cellar and well,
+often giving days of labor to help on the work. Then at the time of
+raising the house, as in the case of the Winchester dwelling, -- an
+unusually fine one for the times, -- the relatives and friends came from
+near and far to show their kindly interest and enjoy the tempting and
+bounteous collation.
+
+This farm originally belonged to Mr. John Morey, who in 1771 presented
+the clock, which for many years ornamented the front gallery of the First
+Church, and is today faithfully meeting its duties in the Parish House.
+
+Greenbank, a quiet old home overlooking the Arboretum, holds among its
+treasures a record of a few years, when Rev. William Ware lived there,
+after resigning his ministry in New York and wrote those remarkable
+works, "Zenobia" and "Probus." Mr. Ware was a man of great learning of
+classical culture, and elegant accomplishments. His mind was a gallery of
+pictures which he portrayed in his writings for the profit and delight of
+others. Dr. Bellows, in his memorial sermon of Dr. Ware, writes of these
+books: "The evinced talents, resources, and tastes, which could not be
+traced to any known writer, while they seemed wholly beyond the reach of
+any unknown one."
+
+On the corner of Allandale Street and Centre Street, Peacock Tavern stood
+a century ago. It was kept by Captain Lemuel Child, distinguished for
+having led the Minute Company of the Third Parish in the battle of
+Lexington. This tavern was a somewhat noted resort at that time, being on
+the direct highway from Boston to Dedham and Providence, a stopping-place
+for travelers and stages and factory teams. We learn that when the
+British officers were in Boston they frequently made up sleighing and
+skating parties, and after exercising on the pond, came to "The Peacock"
+for their late suppers. Doubtless Generals Gage and Burgoyne indulged in
+bumpers there, to help their drooping spirits. The records state that
+during the siege of Boston, Generals Washington and Knox and other
+distinguished officers were frequent visitors, the former stopping on his
+way to New York after the evacuation of Boston. In May 1794, Samuel
+Adams, the grand old patriot, purchased "The Peacock" tavern and forty
+acres of land, and resided here during his term as governor, and during
+the remainder of his life made it his summer residence. We are proud to
+add this name to our list of honorable and distinguished men. It stands
+inseparably with Washington, Jefferson, Franklin, and Hancock, and they
+form together the brightest constellation which illumes the Revolutionary
+annals of our country!
+
+Some of the most apparent and pleasant indications of growth and progress
+in out town have been the establishment, from time to time, of the
+churches, which represent the faith and worship of our people, the
+erection of the commodious school buildings, and the various charitable
+institutions. Strongly as we cling to much that makes the past dear to
+us, we rejoice in all that is making this the golden age of our country.
+
+Within the limits given, it is impossible to review all of the homes and
+characters which have left their impress on our village and made it
+worthy to be a part of the admitted "Athens of America." A long line of
+names comes at memory's call in the various walks of life, -- clergymen,
+authors, teachers, physicians, lawyers, and merchants, men and women whom
+we delight to honor.
+
+"They hurry from out the forgotten past,
+Through the gathered mist of years,
+From the halls of memory, dim and vast,
+Where they have buried lain in the shadows cast
+By recent joys or fears."
+
+More than three hundred years ago the poet Drummond wrote: "It is a great
+spur to virtue to look back on the worth of our line. In this is the
+memory of the dead preserved with the living, being more firm and
+honorable that an epitaph, and the living know that band that tieth them
+to others."
+
+Footnotes
+
+  The Jamaica Plain Aqueduct Company was incorporated in 1795, and was
+the first systematic water system that the city of Boston had. It
+extended from the Pond to Fort Hill, and had about forty-five miles of
+pipes, made of white pine logs, nearly a foot and one half in diameter,
+with a bore of five and three quarters inches. The average daily supply
+was about 400,000 gallons. In excavating for the Subway, several
+specimens of the old wooden pipes have been unearthed in a good state of
+preservation.--From a recent number of the Boston Transcript.  The
+first dwelling, built in 1633, was a simple log house, and was burned
+three or four years later.
+
+An historical sketch of the First Church in Roxbury, by Dr. De Normandie.
+
+One of the old omnibuses was very long, and named Osceola, for an Indian
+chief, a representation of whom was painted on the side.
+
+At the time to which we refer, postage was regulated by distance.
+Thus, 6 1/4, 12 1/2, 16 3/4, and even 25 cents, were sometimes
+necessary.
+
+For the origin of this peculiar name, see the incident which gave rise
+to it described in Drake's Town of Roxbury.
+
+Dr. Thomas Gray's Half-Century Sermon.
+
+Dr. Thomas Gray was born in Boston, March 16 1772, and graduated at
+Harvard College in 1790. He married a daughter of Rev. Samuel Stillman,
+D., pastor of the First Baptist Church in Boston, by whom he was prepared
+for the ministry, and entered the pastorate at Jamaica Plain, April 22,
+1792.  His mother, Mrs. Abigail May, widow of Moses Brewer, was then
+living in the old homestead, and died April 24, 1849, aged 80 years.
+Perkins Street, known in early days as Connecticut Lane, was named for
+William Perkins, who came to Roxbury in 1632.  Within our recollection, a
+very small, old house, on the opposite side of the street, almost hidden
+from view by shrubbery and trees, was the humble home of old Simeon
+Giles, a Negro, who made a precarious living by wood-chopping and like
+service for the neighbors. He was the son of old Peter, who was a slave
+of Governor Adams, valued and kindly treated, and who lived to number one
+hundred years. Long, long ago their tired bodies were laid at rest in the
+little graveyard on the hill.
+
+Whitcomb: Annals and Reminiscences of Jamaica Plain
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Annals and Reminiscences of Jamaica
+Plain, by Harriet Manning Whitcomb
+
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ANNALS OF JAMAICA PLAIN ***
+
+This file should be named 7046.txt or 7046.zip
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