The Willimantic Chronicle - Year of 1884

Published every Wednesday.

McDonald & Safford, Editors and Publishers.
Office, Hall's Block, Main & Union Sts.
$1.50 per year.

M. Wallen, A.H. Freeman, O.G. Hanks. Prompter: O.M. Richardson.

Chronicle, December 1884:

Willimantic Chronicle December 1884:

1873. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: About Town.

Truant Officer Barrows is on the war path. He roped in three boys this morning.

Randall & Thompson opened the skating season at Danielsonville Thanksgiving day to good business.

Theron Palmer of Windham and Asher Brown of Scotland started yesterday for Nebraska, to grow up with the country.

H.A. Hull of Stonington has been appointed prosecuting agent for two years by the county commissioners of New London county.

Frank Brady, for a long time clerk in G.H. Alford's hardware store has resigned the position and moved to Central New York.

Parties wishing to have the address of their paper changed, should give their former address aw w3ll as the one to which they wish it sent.

Mrs. R.E. Beville will please accept our thanks for a liberal specimen of transparent candy made by her. It was both delicious and toothsome.

The feeling in Willimantic among military men is very favorable towards the promotion of Col. Tubbs of the Third regiment to Gen. Smith's command.

Lydia R. Twining, widow of the late John W. Tibbits of Windham died in Norwich Saturday. The body will be brought to Windham to-day for interment.

The people of Atlanta had a monster celebration last week and the Journal was printed in brilliant red ink. We will guarantee that Charley Atwood had a finger in that pie.

Another type-slinger has gone the way of all the earth. On Thanksgiving day Charles H. Webster and Miss Eunice Corey were united in the holy bonds of wedlock.

A small wheel run by waste water has been put in at that spool shop and furnishes power to run an electric machine night and day, for the use of our telephone circuit.

Wanted at Apothecaries Hall. Skunk's Oil, for which the market price will be paid.

The contractors on the water works dam did not keep Thanksgiving as recommended by our chief magistrate, but kept their gangs at work. They have made good progress and the first section of the main dam is completed. There will be a meeting of the St. Joseph's T.A. Society, next Sunday Dec. 7th, which all members are requested to attend as business of importance is to be transacted.

1874. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: On Monday Judge Wallace decided the great telephone lawsuit between the Bell company and the People's company in favor of the former. The People's company will appeal to the United States supreme court which is the last chance and a poor one at that.

1875. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: It is gratifying to learn that all the signs indicate that we are to have a very mild winter, with no very severe weather except a few short cold snaps. It is also stated that the signs are that the coming winter is to be on e of the coldest ever known, and that the first snow ill not thaw until spring. You select your signs and take your choice.

1876. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: S.N. Rand of Philadelphia has a collection of crayon portraits on exhibition in Remington & Co's window that is worth looking at. It is probably the finest exhibit of the kind ever shown in town. Mr. Rand will remain several days and will take a limited number of orders for the same kind of work. Among the pictures are portraits of John M. Hall Esq., Dr. J.D. Bentley and H.C. Murray.

1877. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: Thanksgiving was rather more dull than usual this year we believe. A number of the faithful attended the service at the Methodist church, but the majority of our people kept in doors and waited for dinner to be ready. The streets had a Sunday appearance except that fewer people were visible, and many people the following day could not get rid of the feeling that it was Monday. Now for Christmas!

1878. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: A Mansfield horse attached to a wagon loaded with groceries and other goods ran down Main street yesterday afternoon at a lively gait. Near Potter's office the wagon was overturned and left and the horse went on with the harness dragging at his heels. Five gallons of molasses spilled in the streets, a number of small bundles stolen by boys, and some damage to vehicle and harness comprise the loss. The horse was stopped in front of Foran's restaurant on Union street, and was apparently glad of an excuse to rest after his unwonted exercise.

1879. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: The heartfelt sympathy of the many friends in this vicinity of Hon. Abiel Converse of Thompson, is extended to himself and wife in their recent severe affliction caused by the death of their daughter Mary, whose demise occurred on the 20th ult., at Barre, Vt. She was an estimable young lady, highly respected, and the joy and pride of her parents. Her remains were brought to her former home in Thompson where funeral services were held, and then tenderly laid to rest in the family lot at Putnam.

1880. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: Mr. William J. Miller, of Bristol, president of our gas company, while walking along Franklin street in that town, last Tuesday evening, on his way from the depot to his residence, stubbed his toe against a broken flag stone and fell head foremost upon the walk. He was rendered insensible and unable to get up. Dr. Greene, who happened to be passing at the time, assisted him to his feet, and with the co-operation of another gentleman, Mr. Miller was helped home. His chin was badly bruised, as well as other parts of his body, and his whole system received a very severe shock. Mr. Miller is 65 years old, and for many years has been a prominent democratic leader. There has been general complaint as to the defective condition of this sidewalk.

1881. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: A large audience greeted Prof. D.G. Lawson and the Congregational choir at the Baptist church last evening. The program was a combination of pathetic and humorous pieces, dramatic selections being entirely omitted. Mr. Lawson never appeared to better advantage and all his selections were received with applause by his hearers. The music was a pleasing feature of the entertainment. This evening Mr. Lawson will give a similar entertainment at Mansfield Centre assisted by Mr. H.L. Hall.

1882. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: Police Notes: Jerry Seward, a man of family and employed in the Linen company's dye house, concluded to enjoy a respite from his daily toil last Thursday, it being a legal holiday. After indulging in edibles both solid and fluid, the latter seemed to have overcome him, for about 12 o'clock the same night he found himself on Valley street near the Congregational church, where he met two ladies on their way home from a party. Jerry must have imaging he had lost his turkey and that the younger lady had it, for he at once began a vigorous search, tearing her clothes and otherwise insulting and abusing her, when she grabbed a whiskey bottle from him and broke it over his head. The ladies then managed to escape and next morning entered complaint against Jerry for assault and battery. A warrant was placed in the hands of our new chief of police Fred L. Clark, who went to the dye house, arrested Seward and brought him before Justice Sumner, who after hearing convincing evidence, imposed a fine of $5 and costs - $14.44, which this chap with mormon proclivities had to pay before being released.

1883. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: Court of Burgesses: The regular monthly meeting of the court of Burgesses was held at the clerk's office Monday evening, his Honor Warden Alpaugh presiding and a full board present. The minutes of the meting held Nov. 13th were read and approved. Henry C. Whitford was appointed a policeman of the Borough and submitted his bond which was accepted. The bond of Fred L. Clark as Bailiff of the Borough was presented accepted. The Fire Dept. recommended the appointment of the following persons as Engineers for the ensuing year: Chas. N. Daniels, ,Chief Engineer, Chas. E. Leonard 1st Assistant, Thos. E. Burke, 2nd Assistant, Luke Flynn, 3d Assistant. The recommendations were accepted and the above named persons appointed. The following bills were presented and ordered paid: John C. Hooper, water, Main St. and Mansfield Ave., $12.00. D.E. Potter, glass for street lamps $6.68. C.S. Billings, care fire alarm $25.00. Durkee, Stiles & Co., gasoline $177.48. Wm. B. Berry & Co., repairs street lamps $4.10. Geo. W. Phillips, supplies fire alarm $10.75. Willimantic Gas Co., gas $1.25. S.A. Comins, paying gutters $5.34. Fire Dept., month salary to Dec. 1 $49.59. Police Force, Nov. salary $180.00. Labor Bill, Nov. $486.50. Library Committee, $100.00. Alex L. Fuller was appointed inspector of Buildings for the ensuing year. Adjourned to Wednesday, Dec. 5th, at 7:30 p.m.

1884. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: Mansfield Centre.

Hen thieves have been lately raiding in this vicinity. They visited the premises of C.W. Nichols one night last week, and succeeded in getting away with a dozen of the feathered bipeds, notwithstanding two shots were fired at them from a double barreled shot gun. Hereafter it will be dangerous and useless for them to try that roost again, as Mr. Nichols has provided himself with a small arsenal, all charged and ready at a moment's warning for immediate use, and he has also since the theft placed locks, bars and bolts on the doors of his hennery, and otherwise fortified and barricaded that heretofore neglected, but useful institution.

1885. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: Lebanon.

While we undoubtedly have our full quota of the "genus homo" who are disposed to take life easy, our women have long been noted for resolute action and indomitable perseverance. Mrs. Lester Loomis besides attending to her usual household duties and caring for a family of four persons, gathered in one day seventy bushels of apples, and it wasn't a very good day for the business either. Mrs. D.T. Gager now in her 83d years, still adhering to the habits of her younger days, rises betimes on Monday mornings and does her washing by candlelight.

Some twenty years ago an aged maiden lady of this town, while on her way to Norwich disappeared in a strange and unaccountable manner. A thorough search prolonged for weeks in all the region around where she was last seen, failed to furnish the slightest clue to the mystery. She never has been heard from.

History again repeats itself.

Another equally startling and inexplicable event is now agitating the public mind. Mr. "John Scratchgrass" a writer of local celebrity, whose published letters portraying the internal workings and gripings of the "happy family" known to the world as Grange No. 21, were both amusing and instructive, suddenly and mysteriously disappeared some weeks since, and grave apprehensions and forebodings of evil are being entertained by his now thoroughly alarmed family and friends. As it is remembered that the ill0fated Morgan for divulging the secrets of masonry, was hunted down, kidnapped and murdered by members of the order he had betrayed, so it is feared the unfortunate "Scratchgrass" for a like cause, has met with a similar fate at the hands of the Lebanon grangers.

1886. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: Columbia.

Misses Hutchins and Sawyer returned to their schools in Rockville after their Thanksgiving vacation spent at home.

While Earl M. Holbrook was at work in the woods, a pair of his oxen started on a fast gait and one got astride a stump and in some way injured his shoulder to such an extent, that he was obliged to slaughter it.

Charles Robinson, teacher in Pine street school, will during the term occupy rooms at W.H. Kneeland's.

Quite a number of our young people have commenced the study of German under the instruction of Mrs. Diedrich.

G.B. Fuller has a thirteen year old lad in his employ, who came alone from Norway to New York, from thence to Columbia, landing at Mr. Diedrich's, who obtained his present situation for him.

Fred O. Clark bookkeeper for W.H. Post & Co. of Hartford, with his wife and daughter spent Thanksgiving at the homestead; also W.P. Robertson and wife of the same place was in town for a few days.

Mr. Palmer Downer is with friends in Glastonbury a few weeks.

1887. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: North Windham.

The democratic jubilee here two weeks since, was quite a rousing affair. The procession headed by the South Windham band, marched through all the streets and early in the evening were entertained at M.M. Welch's, and still later partook of a supper at Martin Flint's. Many residences were illuminated noticeably those of M.M. Welch, P.L. Peck, Henry and George Spafford, E.H. Hall jr., and F.D. Spencer. A cannon on the western hills fired one hundred volleys.

Well, let them rejoice, we will all rejoice if purity of nation and home shall overrule impurity - temperance overcome intemperance &c., &c.

Schools are all in working order. Misses Robbins and Hunt are again established here, J.M. Peck at Willimantic, E.H. Spafford at Back road and M.A. Bates at Mansfield hollow.

Mrs. Chas. Peck has had quite a serious illness, but under the faithful attention of Dr. Marsh is improving. Mrs. P.L. Peck has returned from the New York hospital with impaired health still, but is able to see a little with the diseased eye.

Chas. Neff has left the employ of Geo. Spafford, to establish a business for himself. A blacksmith shop is in process of erection near the Mansfield hollow school house and there Charles will be found. His location is considered a good one.

Joseph D. Sweet is settled here for the present and is supplying this and surrounding villages with oysters &c.

Mr. Seymour Davenport is now established at the old homestead and has a store of goods at the disposal of his customers.

P.L. Peck has just slaughtered four spring pigs, and as usual surpassed all his neighbors in weight.

Weston White returns to E. Greenwich seminary this week, where he is taking a business course of study.

We understand that Rev. Nathaniel Beach of Chaplin will occupy our pulpit next Sabbath at 1:30 p.m.

1888. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: The New York Medical Times claims that since the falling off in production of cider in New England, there has been a very marked increase in rheumatism and stone. The record of a hospital in Normandy, where the ordinary beverage is cider shows that only four cases of stone were received in fifty-nine years. This furnishes a hint for the possessors of a surplus apple crop. Make it into cider, bottle it, call it by some high sounding Greek name and sell it as an infallible cure for rheumatism. "There's millions in it."

1889. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: Rev. Mr. Hubbell, of Ansonia, refused to read from the pulpit either the national or state Thanksgiving proclamation. He sends a card to a local paper and says: "As to the proclamation, allow me to say that all of such papers hitherto sent me have invited the clergy to meet with their people in their usual places of divine worship. But now the Governor ignores the clergy and addresses the people - thus intimating that he does not wish us to participate in the service. Accepting this view, many besides myself have declined reading the proclamation and have held no Thanksgiving service. If the omission by the governor was intended as a rebuke to those who preach patriotic sermons on such occasions, this is to be regretted, for those sermons are generally free from partisan politics, and are both broad in their statesmanship and high in their moral tone." The Governor invited the people of this state to assemble and worship on Thanksgiving day. Mr. Hubbell did not consider himself included in that invitation. If he is not of the people, what is he? Judging from the above letter we should say he is an ass.

1890. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: Tenement to Rent. On Pleasant Street. Enquire of the Subscriber. Also a large and commodious Ice House. S.C. Davis.

1891. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: Saturday afternoon, at the end of the week's work in the Yantic woolen mill, the Overseers and "Second-hands" of the various rooms were requested to come to the office of the owner and manager E. Winslow Williams. Having assembled there they were addressed by Mr. Williams in substance as follows: I have here a notice which I intended to post in the mill Monday making a reduction of ten per cent, on all wages more than $1 per day, but this necessary as it is, is so excessively repugnant to my feelings that I have concluded to try a different course of procedure for the success of which I must have your assistance. If you will agree to do your utmost to improve the quality and quantity of the production of the mill and to prevent waste of time and material the wages shall remain as they are at present. Do you all agree to this? (Those present having agreed heartily, Mr. Williams continued.) Then the wages remain as they are. You need not fear of this mill "shutting down," it will continue to run, and further than this, if the efforts which you have promised to make are successful and there is a better business outlook in the spring than there is at present, I promise on my part that your assistance will be additionally rewarded as they shall merit.

1892. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: It is now reported that Lieutenant-Colonel Goodrich has been tendered and accepted the position of quartermaster-general under the incoming administration. He will resign his position as lieutenant-colonel of the First regiment, necessitating a new election. The newly elected major William Westphal, will probably be promoted to the lieutenant-colonelcy, while some of the other line officers will possibly be elected major.

1893. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: Connecticut has a population of 632,000. Of these over 6,000 are more than 80 years of age, showing that the climate of the state is conducive to longevity. Of this number 21 are centenarians, or have passed the 100th year post. The centenarians, the dates of their birth and residences are: Edmond R. Kidder born August 17, 1784, in Fairfield and resides in Berlin; Mrs. Abigail Smith of Bozrah, born on shipboard May 16, 1783; Jeremiah Austin of South Coventry, born in Greenwich, L.I., February 10, 1783; Mrs. Lucy Luther of East Haddam, her birthplace, was born February 10, 1783; "Aunt" Nancy Burr, a colored woman of Easton whose age and nativity are somewhat obscure, but she is supposed to be at least 105 years old; Mrs. Clarissa Davenport Raymond of Wilton was born in that town on the 25th of April 1782; Mrs. Elizabeth Buck of Wethersfield, born January 10, 1784; Mrs. Bridget Farley of West Stratford, was born in Kent, Ireland, August 20, 1781; Mrs. Phoebe Briggs of Sherman, born November 15, 1784; Mrs. Violet Chappell of Ellington, born August 20, 1783; William Ray of Salem, born there March 29, 1784; Henry Abbe also resides in the same town and is reputed to be over 100 years, but the date of his nativity cannot be definitely ascertained. Darby Greene of Redding, was born in Kibbaha, county Clare, Ireland, November 1, 1784; Marvin Smith of Montville, was born November 18, 1784; Miss Eunice Sexton of Lebanon, was born in Colchester September 6, 1784, and was never married; Mrs. Eunice Hollister of Glastonbury was 100 years old on August 9 last, at which time her centennial anniversary was celebrated; Triphenia Jackson of Hartford, a colored woman, is believed to be over 102 years of age; Elsie Reanes of Durham was born there April 24, 1784.

1894. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: Cotton, Wool and Iron has the following in its Connecticut manufacturing news: The Sergeant company's hardware works in New Haven are running full time and force. The mills at Rockville are receiving orders that keep them busy on full time. The Williams Lock and Hame company, Middletown, have had an encouraging revival of business. The Marlin gun works and the Russell Manufacturing company, Middletown, expect to run on full time and an increased force this winter. The New Haven Corset company are increasing their facilities, and the Shelton belt works are running full time on increased orders. The Birmingham corset factories are rushed with work and the mills at Glenville will soon begin on full time.

1895. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: Mr. and Mrs. David A. Adams formerly of Mansfield and now of Springfield will celebrate their golden wedding to-day. They were brought up together at Mansfield, their fathers being the village doctors Adams and Swift who were long in partnership.

1896. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: The Rev. Nathaniel Beach of Chaplin, will preach at the church at North Windham next Sunday at 1:30 o'clock, p.m.

1897. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: Married.

Walden - Newton - In Ledyard, at the residence of the bride's mother, Nov. 27, by Rev. John Avery, Mr. David Palmer Walden of Scotland, and Miss Sabra P. Newton of Ledyard.

1898. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: Died.

Converse - In Barre, Vt., November 20, Mary Ellen, daughter of Abiel and Matilda Converse, of Thompson, aged 37 years. Interment at Putnam. Cunningham - In this village Nov. 29th, Catherine Cunningham; aged 76 years.

Shea - In this village, Nov. 29th, Mary Agnes Shea; aged 18 years.

Cummings - In Providence, R.I. Nov. 30, George, son of Waterman and Mary Ann

Cummings, formerly of East Hartford; aged 38 years.

Donohue - In this village Nov. 30th, Michael Donohue; aged 25 years.

1899. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: Evans' Standard 5 and 10 Cent Sheet Music. Premium

Sewing Machines, Canary & Bouquet Shades, Butterrick's Patterns, Bird Cages, etc., etc., E.A. Barrows, 139 Main Street.

1900. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: People's Fish Market. No. 9 Railroad St. Oysters Oysters! Season of 1884. As the Oyster season has now opened, we shall be prepared to furnish at all ties during the season, the best grades of Oysters, both Shell and Solids. Shall also have on hand during the week, Fresh Fish, of all kinds in their season. Lobsters and Clams. Orders promptly delivered. Market open Sunday from 6 till 9 a.m. V.M. Blaisdell, A.H. Lynch.

1901. TWC Wed Dec 3, 1884: For Sale - One Ox card nearly new, One Ox sled, One Buggy. Will be sold at a Bargain. Address Lock Box A. South Windham, Conn.

1902. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: About Town.

Some of our street lamps give a mighty poor light.

Rev. S.R. Free will preach at North Windham next Sunday at 1:30 p.m.

Mr. Mason Lincoln has a bed of pansies that are still green and in blossom.

The name of the Windham County Sunbeam will this week be changed to The Standard.

Rev. Geo. W. Holman finds himself in need of rest, and will take a vacation of a few weeks. His brother occupied his pulpit last Sunday.

Arthur Hills arrived home from Florida last eek. He does not seem to be fully satisfied with being his own cook and forager the year round.

The Chinese laundries have consolidated, and the goods, chattels and effects in the Main street branch were transferred to Church street Monday.

Miss Carrie Gilmore the roller skater was married last week to Will Livesey, who also an artist in the same line. It is stated that Miss Gilmore has cleared $4000 a year by her skill on the rollers.

1903. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: The sympathy of the many friends of Mr. James Gorman, the popular porter of Hotel Commercial is accorded him in his sad affliction, by the death of his wife which occurred last Friday evening.

1904. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: Wages have been slightly reduced in the Smithville and Windham Manufacturing Companies' mills, and the Linen Company has posted notices announcing a ten per cent reduction after January 1, 1885.

1905. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: The Voluntown correspondent of Cooley's Weekly says that Rawson Colgrove, a brother of Dr. C.H. Colgrove of this village recently caught a mink that measured three feet and one inch long.

1906. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: Ida Lewis, America's "Grace Darling" was received into communion in the Thames street Methodist Episcopal church, Newport, on Sunday, the pastor, the Rev. Edgar F. Clarke, making appropriate and touching remarks.

1907. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: Gurdon Cady will furnish music for the Social to be given by Company K at the armory on Friday evening December 19th. Dancing tickets are only 50 cents. No spectators tickets will be issued, but the ladies are cordially invited to be present free of charge.

1908. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: Harvey Winchester of South Windham an old and well

known resident of the town, died on Sunday aged 83. Mr. Winchester has been identified with the firm of Smith & Winchester for nearly half a century. Funeral from his late residence to-morrow at 1:30.

1909. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: An adjourned meeting of the Court of Burgesses was held on Monday evening. The proposed location of the reservoir was approved. Albert Barrows, John H. Moulton and Edwin E. Burnham were appointed borough assessors.

1910. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: Truman W. Greenslit has resigned his position on the editorial staff of the St. Johnsbury Caledonian because he does not enjoy the long winters of Vermont, and has gone to Florida with his wife for recreation and a business outlook.

1911. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: The Centennial of American Methodism being now celebrated, a discourse on Methodism will be preached by the pastor Sunday afternoon. In the evening addresses will be made by Rev. L.W. Blood, Professor W.L. Burdick, and others.

1912. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: The Ladies Society of St. Paul's Mission will hold a bazaar sociable on Thursday evening of this week at the residence of Mrs. R.E. Isbell. There will be a table full of fancy articles suitable for Christmas presents. An admission fee of ten cents is charged which pays for the refreshments. Everybody cordially invited to be present.

1913. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: The United States Telephone Co. of New Haven is sending out circulars offering to sell instruments and to make contracts for exchange systems. Hartford is to have an exchange using these instruments. Manager Dolan has one of these machines in his office connected with Norwich by 64 mils of wire and conversation in an ordinary tone of voice can be distinctly heard over that length of line. A Willimantic exchange is spoken of as likely to be an established fact in the near future.

1914. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: About 30 young people called on Mr. A.L. Kingsbury and his bride at their new house on State street, last evening and spent a very pleasant evening. With refreshments and music the company made merry and before their departure left a set of lace curtains as a pleasant token of their good wishes to host and hostess. Mr. Lucius Graves made the presentation speech which was responded to with a few brief words of thanks. - Herald, Northampton, Mass.

1915. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: Mr. Mason Lincoln of this village had a patch of potatoes in his garden which was several inches high at the time of the big frost last spring. The morning after the freeze, the vines were black and apparently killed. Mr. Lincoln let them alone, and says he never had a better crop of potatoes than he raised from those frost-bitten vines. We would be glad to hear from others who had crops cut down by the same frost as to the result in harvest time.

1916. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: Charles H. Peckham, sentenced at the May 1883, term of the superior court for Windham county for horse theft was before the board of pardons on Monday asking for a release from prison. His term does not expire until 1887. Peckham offered for sale in Danielsonville in April, 1883, a horse and wagon at a remarkably low price. Suspicious was aroused and it was discovered that the team belonged to George Lincoln of Willimantic. Peckham told his story which in the main was that he purchased the team from a friend while intoxicated. The petition was rejected.

1917. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: D.G. Lawson and H.L. Hall seem to be in great demand just now. On Monday evening they were booked to give an entertainment before the lunatics at Middletown, but were prevented from filling the engagement by the illness of Mr. Hall. Last evening they were advertised to go to Windham where they were to be assisted by a local quartette and Miss Flora Hyde of Hartford, soloist. Mr. Hall was unable to present. A good audience was in attendance.

1918. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: A brilliant correspondent of the Hartford Globe who evidently is not acquainted with Willimantic streets writes as follows: "The poor condition of our sidewalks has long been a noticeable feature of the borough. This with the treacherous curved iron foot bridges over the cross walks, makes pedestrianism at night a rather dangerous operation. Tuesday night, President Miller of the gas company, got a very severe fall, owing to a defective piece of sidewalk on Franklin street. This particular street has long been a source of complaint, and also many other streets. Mr. Miller's injuries were quite serious, and rendered more so on account of his advanced age. Our borough authorities should wake up and fix the streets and sidewalks so that they will not be a source of continual danger." As Mr. Miller was in Rhode Island when he fell, our borough officials do not feel responsible for his injuries.

1919. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: The notice of a ten per cent reduction of all wages at the mills of the Linen company does not seem to be viewed with favor by the help interested. There has been no reduction in the price of thread, and the only cause for the cut down is the reduced profits to stockholders resulting from the hard times and consequent small sales of the product of the mills. Reports state that other thread manufacturers are running full time and with no reduction of wages. The Linen company last week, although running on three-fourths time found it necessary to run a large part of the works fifty-six and one-half hours to fill orders. We understand that the company is shipping more thread at present than the average through the summer months, and just now there seems to be a rush of work in the finishing department to keep up with orders. If these are facts it would indicate that the reduction in the hours of labor will be of short duration, and the necessity for a cut-down in wages will not be apparent.

1920. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: Temperance. The organization of the Prohibition Association of Windham was perfected at a meeting held in Mission Hall, Last Friday evening, and the following officers were elected: President, H.W. Nicholas; vice-president, Geo. B. Abbott, Joel Fox; secretary and treasurer, Geo. A. Conant; assistant secretary, Lucy G. Aurelio. A large audience was present at the temperance meeting in Mission Hall last Sunday evening, and among the speakers was Mr. Marvin Knowlton, formerly of Ashford, who encouraged the young to enlist in the work of driving rum from society and inspired the older ones with new faith in the ultimate and fast approaching triumph of the cause.

1921. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: N.Y. & N.E. Notes - The company have decided to issue tickets to New Orleans for $48 the round trip from Boston, during the continuance of the World's Exposition.

The heirs of Charles Kinne of Greeneville, who claimed $5000 from the New England road on which he was killed, have been given by Judge Sanford of the superior court a judgment of $75 and costs.

1922. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: Police Notes: On Tuesday of last week John Smith, after peregrinating the country round arrived in this peaceful village and ran afoul of detective Tom Roberts, who had probably never heard of the aforesaid illustrious traveler and deeming him a vagrant, introduced him to Justice Sumner who detailed officer Roberts to escort Smith - Jack Smith to the hotel de Sibley in Brooklyn to remain for 30 days at the state's expense. On Thursday detective Roberts had Kate Hale up before Justice Sumner charged with assault and battery on Mrs. Jones. The evidence adduced warranted his Honor in imposing a fine of $1 and costs on defendant.

Saturday morning detective Brown escorted Tim Lynch to the magisterial bar charged with intoxication and breach of the peace the previous evening. Tim had broken a valuable plate glass window in front of N.A. Stearns & Co's harness store in Card's block. He plead guilty, and having no money Justice Sumner sent him up for 30 days.

Saturday morning sheriff Pomeroy went to Norwich and returned bringing with him Willard and Albert Clough, (reputed cousins) charged with defrauding Mrs. Taft corner of Union and Temple streets, out of her board money, about $3. They had removed their baggage on the sly and left town, but sheriff Pomeroy, (who is a sort of second Vidocq,) was put on their trail and learning they had taken separate trains to Norwich at once telephoned to headquarters in that city, to arrest and hold the offenders which was done, and sheriff Pomeroy went after them with the above result. They were brought before Justice Sumner, who after a careful examination of the facts, found prima facie evidence of intent to defraud and forthwith imposed a fine of $1 and costs - $16.15 upon each of these boarding house beats. Served them right.

Saturday afternoon detective Roberts brought Mrs. Maggie Jones before Justice Bowen, charged with assault on Kate Hale. There were three counts against defendant, but Justice Bowen who is rather keen in his power of discrimination, found her liable on one county only, for which the penalty was a little over $11 - paid. This trial was an outgrowth of the one on Thursday last, and was attended by quite an aristocratic audience, including the witnesses. The trial lasted about two hours.

About 7 o'clock Saturday evening chief of police Clark was called on by a daughter of Tom Sullivan, living on side hill, to go and arrest her father who was drunk and smashing things in a lively manner at home. When the officer got there Tom was snugly ensconced in bed and snoring like the Linen company's steam gong, and the family quite averse to having the old chap arrested. Capt. Clark seeing how matters stood left in disgust.

Ed Hughes a notorious rough, went into Brennan & Clark's market last evening and threatened to demolish Mr. Clark, but that gentleman seized a large butcher knife, kept the desperado at bay until the arrival of chief Clark and detective Brown, who soon had Hughes in safe quarters. This morning Justice Sumner sentenced Hughes to 15 days in the county jail, and to pay the costs - $8.60.

This morning John Gallagher, a common drunk, was also sent to Brooklyn in default of his fine and costs - $8.38.

1923. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: Thanksgiving Bonfires. Much has been said and published of late about bonfires on Thanksgiving nights in and about Norwich, as a peculiar custom to that locality for the last century. Perhaps a few reminiscences of my boyhood days in this direction and locality and some of the actors therein, may not be uninteresting to your numerous readers. My memory does not reach as far back as the inauguration of this Thanksgiving custom - a century or more, but perhaps far enough to give some insight to the operations necessary to accomplish the desired results. That part of Norwich embracing the territory from Bean hill to Norwich Town green and vicinity, was the field of our operations. The site of the bonfire was usually on the high ground northeast of the church of Norwich Town near the navy yard, so called by the boys in those days, where Col. Elisha Tracy who was a commissary of the government in the war of 1812, manufactured gun carriages for the government, employing a large number of men. Each boy in this locality from eight to twenty years of age, was expected to contribute his share to this illumination in the shape of barrels, boxes, straw etc. As tall a pole as we could obtain was put up, some thirty feet or more in height, strung with barrels filled with straw crowned with a tar barrel; the base surrounded with boxes and other combustible materials, all prepared the day previous. On Thanksgiving night in the dusk of evening, the boys assembled on the spot selected, ready for operations. The torch was applied and the surrounding territory was finely illuminated amid the cheers and shouts of the assembled crowd. The utmost good feeling prevailed, with nothing to mar the joyous occasion. Among the many who participated in these operations I can name a few: Lafayette S. Foster, George H. Edgerton, Richard S. Cleveland (father of our president elect,) Andrew Griswold, Burrell and Joseph Thatcher, Benajah and George Bridgen, Andrew Carew, Charles Wood, George Roberts, Zebadiah Mansfield, Elisha Tracy, John Burchard, Robert and Henry P. Havens, Azariah Lathrop, and I think, my old friend John T. Wait retains in his memory, the scenes and incidents of those days. I am glad to learn that this old custom is still kept in remembrance, and if the boys of the present time enjoy the occasion as much as the boys of sixty years or more ago, this time honored occasion will long be held in remembrance. B.

1924. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: Mrs. Bridget Farley of Stratford, who celebrated her 103d birthday last August, visited the dry goods house of W.B. Hall & Co., at Bridgeport, on Thursday with her daughter, aged 70, on a shopping tour. The Standard in the course of a description of her visit says: Passing into the store she was met by the proprietor himself who conducted her to the best seat the house affords. To his salutation she gave a hearty hand shake and an earnest "God bless you." A half dozen clerks left their counters to see the venerable woman the like of whom they had never before laid eyes on, and she was about to do what no woman of her great age had ever done - go shopping. She submitted after taking the proffered seat to a hand shaking with all who wished to do so. Very soon Mr. P.T. Barnum learning that Mrs. Farley was at the store came in, and was introduced to the centenarian, who, before she would take the great showman's hand insisted on removing her glove. She hoped he was quite well and expressed a wish that he might long continue. Mr. Barnum replied that he believed she was good for 50 years yet. Mr. Farley returned the compliment, hoping he would see 100 years also, The old lady was offered refreshments, after which she selected splendid cloth for a cloak, the best in the house. She took cloth saying that she had a seventy-year-old daughter who was good on cutting, and that kind would suit her best. After remaining awhile and talking with fully one hundred persons, she re-entered her carriage and was driven back to West Stratford.

1935. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: St. John Did Not Sell Out. William E. Gillette, of Colchester and one of the St. John Electors for Connecticut, took pains to address various leaders of the Prohibition cause in the late national election in relation to a campaign slander and the following replies will be found to be self-explanatory and to the point. Dear Sir: The Republicans are circulating the following: "The St. John committee came to the Republican committee at the Blaine dinner in New York city and offered to withdraw St. John in favor of Blaine for $25,000, which was not accepted but in return offered the St. John committee $10,000 which was also refused. Also that the Democrats gave $25,000 which was taken and used." Let us know the truth and the foundation of the report if any. Yours truly, Wm. E. Gillette. One of the St. John Electors for Conn, Colchester, Conn. Frankfort, Herkimer Co., N.Y. Nov. 21, 1884. Dear Sir: The only foundation for the stories you speak of is the hate of republican politicians. No offer was made to the republicans and no money received from the Democrats. We only used $4,000 in New York state work and all of that is not secured yet. Our enemies seem incapable of worthy motives themselves and cannot understand those who are actuated by such." The reports are untrue. F. Gates, Chairman Boston, Mass., Nov. 25, 1884. Hone. W.E. Gillette, My Dear Sir: "Answering your letter of the 17th, I would say I am tired of denying Republican lies. The St. John committee never offered to withdraw St. John for any sum. They could not withdraw him if they wished, for if the committee had betrayed their prohibition followers; St. John still would have been true. Our committee received no money from either Democratic or Republican sources. If anybody makes these statements again denounce them as falsehoods and offer them $100 for evidence to establish the fact and if it is furnished, I will pay the $100. Your friend, Jn0. B. Finch. Chairman National Committee.

Office of St. John & Pickering, Olathe Kansas, Nov. 20th, 1884. Wm. E. Gillette, Colchester, Ct., Dear Sir: "In answer to your letter of the 17th inst, I have the honor to state so far as I have any knowledge touching the matter to which you refer, the whole story is infamously false from beginning to end. I have never directly or indirectly had any communication with either of the old parties in relation to the campaign. I made our fight for principle and not for money and all the talk about selling out is simply one of the many campaign lies of which the Republican party during the past campaign has been so prolific. Truly yours, John P. St. John.

1936. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: Farm for sale or exchange for Village property. A small Farm in Eastford. Land in good state of cultivation and nice buildings. Water at barn, house and shop. Apply to H. Atwood on the premises or to Marshall Tilden, Willimantic, Conn.

1937. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: Business Wanted in exchange for a nice little farm - grocery or boot shoe business preferred. Enquire of Robert Brown, real estate agent, Willimantic, Ct.

1938. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: To Rent - A large tenement on Pearl Street. Price $13 per month. Inquire of Dr. I.B. Gallup.

1939. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: Andover.

The dramatic entertainment given by the Ladies' Society at the conference house last Wednesday evening proved a decided success and was witnessed by a crowded house. It consisted of a number of dialogues, tableaux, reading and singing. All those engaged in it did themselves much credit, and some of them showed a decided talent for acting. Charley White as the Irishman in the tooth pulling scene was especially good, and Mr. Wm. G. Tarbox was nearly killing as a city exquisite, while Miss S.E. Marsh acted the part of a fine young lady from the city to perfection, and Miss Luna Bishop acted very nicely the difficult part of a lady not as young as she had once been, who was very anxious to get married. The audience showed their appreciation of the good hits, and the applause was frequent and hearty. At the close a bed quilt made by the Ladies' Society was disposed of by lottery, the lucky number proved to be 132, and Mr. J.A. Bingham proved to be the fortunate holder of the same. Mr. Bingham who is a general favorite in town, came forward and received his prize amid as earnest applause as any that had gone before. On the same evening the ladies of the Baptist church gave a sociable at the house of Mrs. Leonard Lathrop. This was also well attended and passed off very pleasantly.

Mr. T.G. Porter the chief patron of our library has just sent us seventy volumes more of very carefully selected books. This makes the number of books on our shelves 1026, besides a large number of pamphlets and magazines. Mr. Porter visited the old homestead in Coventry, Thanksgiving day, and on the way called on a member [mean number?] of his friends here.

Mrs. Wealthy Taylor of New Britain but formerly of Andover is dead, and her remains will be brought here for burial tomorrow, (Tuesday).

1940. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: Columbia.

On Tuesday evening Dec. 2nd the democrats of this town celebrated the national victory that far surpassed anything of the kind ever attempted here before. At sunset a salute was fired and about 7 o'clock the marshal and his assistant formed the line of democrats headed by cavalry and lead by the Lebanon cornet band and booming of cannon they proceeded on their line of march. Illuminations were made at the residences of Mrs. Amanda Sawyer and daughters, S.F. Ticknor and Henry C. Clark, Chester H. Collins, Dr. C.N. Gallup, Jonathan Tucker, John B. Ticknor, Henry Williams, Mrs. E. Strickland, John H. Bascom, S.F. Tucker. Still farther on "democratic folly" manifested itself at John Davenport's, John A. Lewis, Oliver Fox, Mrs. Sybil P. Robertson and Seth S. Collins, F.P. Collins, Carlos Collins and E.H. Harris. The residences all looked very finely with their handsomely draped windows and Chinese lanterns but conspicuous among them was the house of Warren A. Collins on the corner, the upper windows being draped with red, white and blue, while those on the lower floor presented a varied appearance some with each pane lighted with candles others with transparences while every window in the large house was brilliantly illuminated outside with flag, lanterns and torches grouped it presented a fine appearance, also the house of Dr. Gallup with a variety of style that showed the Dr. understood his business, every window in this house shedding forth "democratic pent up enthusiasm" with bright hued lanterns suspended from the trees on his lawn; again the large residence of S.F. Ticknor, with its variety of decoration and arches across the broad walk to his house from which were suspended lanterns and on the spacious piazza groups of ladies who had been enthusiastic and earnest in this late contest waved their handkerchiefs as the torchlight procession wended its way through the grounds of its proprietor. F.P. Collins decorated, burned red lights, sent forth Roman candles. At the termination of the parade, visitors from other towns and all others gathered at Bascom Hall which was ablaze with light and piazza full of lanterns and did ample justice to an ample supper, pies, cake and coffee provided by the ladies who served all to the good viands prepared for this jollification.

Chas. A. Robinson has moved to Lebanon.

Uncle Sam Brown has finished work at Portland and will spend the remainder of the winter with his daughter, Mrs. F.P. Collins.

David Webler is intending to move to Exeter and with his strong team of horses draw lumber for Leonard & Brown.

James L. Downer served as juror at Tolland last week.

Mrs. Dr. C.N. Gallup is spending a few days with her parents in Colchester.

Horace Brown has vacated his former premises and is till business arrangements are perfected with his sister, Mrs. Woodward.

David O. Fuller of this place died suddenly on Sunday night of heart disease. His age is 71.

1941. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: South Coventry.

Mrs. Timothy O'Brien receives $100 insurance on her barn.

The firm of Kenyon & Barber manufacturers of ladies' fine dress flannels, probably warned by the frequent fires in this village, have recently furnished their mill with a patent sprinkler. In order to do this it was necessary to place a large tank on the high ground near Main street, to serve as a reservoir for water supply. This tank has been covered by a neat building supplied with heating conveniences.

Mrs. Everett A. Fuller has received $2000, the sum to which she was entitled as the widow of a member of the "Ancient Order of United Workmen." This order affords a reliable insurance at small expense. Mr. Fuller was a member of Coventry lodge which has a larger membership than some lodges in larger places.

Since the death of Mrs. Alanson Washburn, Henry Washburn ahs removed to his father's house.

Now we have a meat market that would be a credit to Willimantic. Dodge & Rogers are men who make their services appreciated by the public, by giving the public what it wants, and the result has been a good trade during the hard times. They keep a neat market and are always pleasant and obliging.

Wm. Reynolds of Mansfield has been appointed administrator of the Bidwell estate. He is a competent and prompt business man.

Seymour Scott, who for many years has occupied a tenement in the house of Samuel Storrs, has removed to one of the houses belonging to the Washington mill property.

D. Warner Fisk of South street, his wife and little boy, were recently terribly poisoned by poison elder, which was evidently burned with the firewood.

John J. Franklin is making quick work with a large addition to the Dimock residence. Mr. Franklin is a competent builder and never lacks for jobs.

John Isham's nice new cottage makes quite an addition to the appearance of that part of the village.

1942. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: The Washington monument was completed Saturday by

setting in place the marble cap stone and pyramidical apex of aluminum. About 2 o'clock Col Casey the government engineer and his assistants proceeded to set the capstone (6,300 lbs) suspended from heavy joists supported by the platform and towering 40 feet above them. The American flag was unfurled and a salute of 21 guns was fired in the White house grounds. The sound of cheers came faintly up from those below, while a number of invited guests on the 500 foot platform and in the interior of the monument at a level, spontaneously struck up the Star Spangled Banner and other patriotic songs. The flag floated from a staff exactly 600 feet from the ground, thus displaying the American colors at the greatest height of construction ever known in the world. The monument itself with its total height of 550 feet, far overtops any other structure of human hands.

1943. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: The Rev. Edward Woolsey Bacon is in delicate health and it is feared he may be compelled to seek a warmer climate during the coming winter. He is at present located in New London.

1944. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: The annual report of the fish commission show that

between three and four million of shad were placed in the rivers of the state the past year. The catch has been less than usual. This is attributed to the breakwater at the river's mouth. Carp have been distributed, but the commissioners think our waters too cold for them as many failures are reported. The attempt to restock the Connecticut river with salmon has been abandoned, as the legislature repealed a law which provided a penalty for killing them.

1945. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: Died.

Winchester - In South Windham Dec. 7, Harvey Winchester; aged 83.

Flint - In this village Dec. 3, Sarah Flint; aged 58.

Weed - In this village, Dec. 6th, Maria Weed; aged 79.

Fuller - In Columbia, Dec. 7, Daniel O. Fuller; aged 71.

Gorman - In this village Dec. 5, Mary O. Gorman; aged 30

1946. TWC Wed Dec 10, 1884: To the Board of County Commissioners for Windham

County. I hereby apply for a license to sell spirituous and intoxicating liquors at my new building on Ash Street Willimantic in the town of Windham. I hereby certify that I am not disqualified to receive such license by any of the previsions of the laws of this state and that the place in which said business is to be carried on has no means of access to any part of the same building used or occupied as a dwelling house. Dated at Windham this 4th day of December A.D., 1884. Thomas Keating.

1947. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: About Town.

The Holland silk mills put in considerable more than usual time last week.

The last day of the year comes on Wednesday and the Chronicle will issue fifty-three papers in 1884.

We are to have telephone connection with Hampton.

We understand that Wm. Sweeney and D.P. Dunn will open news rooms and stationery store in the place on Main street recently vacated by the Chinese laundry.

The Linen company sent the balance of its force to the New Orleans exposition last Wednesday night. The company's exhibit was one of the few ready for operation at the opening yesterday. The expense to the company will probably be not less than $25,000.

1948. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: Farmers in the eastern part of the state are moving for a co-operative association for the detection of horse thieves. For nearly a year horses have been stolen almost every week and few of them have been recovered. It is believed that the animals are sent to New York.

1949. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: In the New London superior court Saturday Henrietta J. Beckwith of Windham was granted a divorce from Thomas J. Beckwith of Norwich. Grounds desertion. The custody of the minor children was given to plaintiff.

1950. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: C.R. Utley, after a long illness is able to be at the store a part of the time again.

1951. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: The Ladies' Friendly society of the M.E. church will hold a festival and fair in the vestry of the church this evening and to-morrow evening. A variety of useful and ornamental articles suitable for Christmas gifts will be on sale; also home made comfortables, quilts and aprons. A musical entertainment will be given both evenings under the direction of Mr. C.B. Jordan, assisted by Misses Etta Young, Mattie Goodrich, May Rollinson, and Messrs. James Simpson, T.J. Roberts and George E. Clark. A supper consisting of oysters, cold eats, baked beans, pies, cake tea and coffee, etc., will be served from 6 to 10 o'clock each evening. Ice cream, fruits and cake will be on sale. Admission 10 cents, supper 25. The public are cordially invited.

1952. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: The management of the Storrs Agricultural School, some time ago decided that a new set of harness was necessary to the prosperity of the institution and the order was accordingly placed. The bridle was ordered to be marked with the initials of the title of the school, "S. A. S." In due time the goods arrived and were greatly admired by the officers and pupils of the school. The following day it was necessary that the team go to Willimantic and the new harness was to be tested. Accordingly the team with its new dress was brought to the door, and the Prof. Mounted the seat and grasped the ribbons. Just as he was about to start one of the would-be grangers who was looking over the new acquisition inquired what that horse was marked that way for. On alighting, the Prof. Found the bright, new letters A S S staring him in the face form each blinder on the new bridle. It was decided that the old harness was good enough for one more trip and the change was speedily made.

1953. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: Police Notes: Thursday and Friday were occupied with the continued trial in the case of William Fitzpatrick vs. Thomas Hastings and John Hickey, defendants being charged with highway robbery on the person of complainant. Fitzpatrick, an employee on the water works was paid off last week and on Wednesday spent his time in the company of Hastings and others, and at intervals during the day, indulged in copious libations of what our prohibition friends call "the soul destroying fluid". Towards night plaintiff in company with Hastings repaired to Owen Sheehan's crib under Hamlin block and after procuring drinks, which complainant paid for they left the place, and took a stroll up Main street. When in front of Franklin hall plaintiff was induced on some pretext to go to the rear of the building, when he was knocked down and, as he says, robbed of a small sum of money by Hastings and another man. While he was prostrate he seized one of his assailants by his left ear and bit it severely. The mayhemized man was fully identified at the trial next day by plaintiff and his Honor, Justice Sumner placed Hastings under $150 bonds for his appearance in the next criminal term of the superior court, to answer to the charge of highway robbery - Dennis Murphy being his bondsman. Hickey was discharged for lack of evidence. Fitzpatrick we understand, will accept work from N.Y. & N.E. company, and it is hoped this last little escapade of his will prove a lesson to him for the future.

1954. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: Columbia.

As H.B. Frink and wife were driving across Chestnut hill in a sleigh the horse turned toward the residence of Edgar Baldwin, and Mr. Frink guided him as he supposed into the street, but suddenly one runner went into a deep ditch, overturning the sleigh, breaking both shafts and throwing the occupants into a promiscuous heap inuring Mrs. F's shoulder to some extent.

Mrs. Dr. Gallup has been entertaining her brother from Colchester, who has just recovered from a severe illness.

A case came before Justice F.H. Clark last week, arising from a dispute between two Germans, Antiss and Scherbaum; said altercation resulting in the former slapping the face of the latter several times. Antiss pleaded guilty and the court fined him one dollar and costs.

S.F. Ticknor is suffering from an attack of inflammatory rheumatism.

Dea. Leander Richardson has lost a valuable cow, caused by baking of the manifolds" as was discovered by an examination.

Mrs. John B. Ticknor is again the victim of a fall, sustaining injuries that in her feeble state and advanced years may confine her permanently.

Dr. C.N. Gallup responded to the needs of the library building and caused hard wood to be placed there sufficient for a year's use. Dr. Gallup was one of the most efficient in its start and his liberality and zeal does not abate one whit. The committee consisting of Rev. F.D. Avery, Dr. C.N. Gallup, Miss A.J. Fuller, A.H. Fox, Joseph Hutchins, C.E. Little and W.H. Yeomans are indefatigable in their efforts for the good of the institution and the people who watch its interest and its working, can be acquiesce in this statement. During the year Saxton B. Little its founder has presented the library with 259 volumes, and Dr. Gallup 27 volumes, J.R. Jewett a fine calendar clock, while other small gifts in the shape of pictures, maps, etc., adorn its walls. If its success in the future is measured by its prosperity during the first year of existence, there is no such word as fail on its programme. With the exception of one or two individuals there seems to be no fault found with its being run free, and when the library in its early stages was being talked up, it was understood that fuel would be gratuitously furnished and now there are those who still entertain the same generous idea, and the library as we have already mentioned, can be warmed free this year and some of our first citizens keep their offer as a standing one.

1955. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: Mansfield.

Mr. Burnham raised a good crop of potatoes on his plantation in Willimantic after the tops had been killed by the last freeze of 15 June last. He left them to themselves and they soon grew again and did as well probably, as though the frost had not nipped them.

We hear of no bigger hogs being butchered this season, than the one raised on the Coney Rock Farm, two and a half years old, weight when dressed off 660 lbs.

Work on the Chas. A. Gurley's farm (stone work) closed up some two weeks since, and we learn that Mr. Gurley will leave town soon to spend the winter in Polaska, N.Y.

The agricultural school had a much larger attendance than at any previous term. We are gratified to learn that the school is growing in favor with the people. This is as it should be. We believe that it well deserves the patronage of the people of this town.

1956. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: Hampton.

Our village will soon have "Telephone Connection" with Willimantic.

Rockwood's mill is being moved to Eastford.

Young Colburn was tipped out of the sleigh as he was driving F.H. Deming's team around the corner near Mrs. Mason Fuller's, Saturday, and the horse made good time through the street, up to the station down the new road and was finally stopped by Miss Mary Fuller in the Bell district. John Fitts and family were tipped out of a sleigh Sunday, about a half mile west of the village. No harm done we are happy to say.

The Hampton depot has been newly underpinned, and a new car house been built.

Josiah Fuller of New York is visiting at G.W. Fuller's.

There was a gathering of young people at John Scott's, Friday night and a very enjoyable time is reported.

1957. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: Danielsonville.

Last Saturday December 13th, 1884 completed 90 years in the long journey of life of a citizen of this borough. Mr. Ethan Coe born in Granville, Mass., December 13th, 1794, commemorated the completion of his 90th year last Saturday. Mr. Coe's health, memory and faculties, are wonderfully preserved, and continued until him. He comes of a family of remarkable longevity his mother continuing to 94 years, and his grandmother to 101 years of age. He has two sisters living, one 84 and the other 98 years of age both in good health. He has two children, Mr. J.L. Coe of Florida and Mrs. A.P. Somes, wife of Prof. Somes principal of the Danielsonville High School with whom he resides. His wife 84 years of age is in good health and many ladies at 70 would gladly exchange with Mrs. Coe, health, preserved condition and elasticity of step.

1958. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: North Windham.

The mill here is silent on account of the death of its principal owner Edwin H. Hall, whose funeral will be held to-day (Tuesday), from his late residence in Willimantic. A more extended notice of him together with the mill may be given hereafter.

Wild geese seem to be setting aside the fox excitement, as for two successive nights they have dropped into the pond here to rest on their migratory journey. C.E. Peck was fortunate in securing a good fat goose for a future dinner. Others were not so successful, merely "a wild goose chase" being the result.

Milton Loomis of Chaplin is now employed in the shop of Geo. T. Spafford.

1959. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: Andover.

At the town meeting held Saturday afternoon the selectmen were instructed to fence the land to be bought of Mr. Porter for an addition to the new cemetery. The meeting did not instruct the selectmen to proceed to take land for an addition to the Townsend yard.

Our library committee sent an order to New York last week for 33 books. They arrived Saturday morning and were numbered and place on the shelves by our efficient librarian Mr. H.G. Dorrance, in time for the readers Saturday evening. Among these are "Down the Mississippi" by Mark Twain: "The Creoles of Louisiana," by Cable; and "Ramona" by Helen Jackson. We now have 1056 books. In speaking of Mr. Hollister's gift to the ladies society last week, the amount should have been $10 and not $8.10 as your types made it. This makes $210 in all that he has given towards the recent repairs on the church.

1960. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: The Putnam Woolen Co's mills are once more running full time, with no reason to suppose they will not continue on through the winter. The cotton mills continue to run only four and a half days. No change from this will take place unless a better state of business is seen.

1961. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: Lebanon.

Judge Gillette, at the request of the heirs has appointed Col. Anson Fowler administrator of the Carey Latham estate. Hezekiah M. Loomis and Ben. Franklin Nye are appointed appraisers.

It wasn't the grim monster but a sort of Rip Van Winkle sleep that had overtaken "Scratchgrass" after all. His sudden appearance two weeks ago gave great delight to a host of friends and caused renewed inquiries and speculations among ye noble grangers as to "who in thunder is it!"

1962. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: Tough Old Folks in Connecticut. The population of Connecticut by the census of 1880 was 622,700, and may be roughly computed at the present time at 650,000. In this number Mr. F.H. Nash has detected more than 6000 above 80 years old, and publishes a list of them arranged by townships. Of the 6000 there are 651 more than ninety and 120 more than 100 years old. Brief sketches of most of the living centenarians are given, and of some who have recently died, and we are impressed by the very slow effects of rum and tobacco upon their vitality. For example, Mrs. Nancy Coley of Easton, is set down as 105 years old. At birth she was so small that she was put into a teapot and the lid was shut on her. She was married twice; first in 1799 and again in 1865. The biographer says: At the age of 15 aunt Nance acquired the habit of taking snuff, and has continued it for 90 years. In this the evening of her days, snuff is her only solace.

Mrs. Elsie Chittenden of Guilford, is another example. She was 100 years old last April, and like Mrs. Coley has been married twice. For more than 60 years she has been a snuff taker. She has no physical disease, has never taken medicine and seems to have a reasonable prospect of continuing. Mrs. Chittenden has been a total abstainer from spirituous liquors and to this says the biographer, many attribute her longevity. Mrs. Bridget Farley of Stratford, (who beats Mrs. Chittenden by three years) makes her own bed daily, is subject to no physical disabilities except rheumatism, and thanks God for the privilege of loving so long to repent fully of her sins, takes spirituous liquors with moderation every time she gets a chance, and has done so since a tender age. Mrs. Farley celebrated her 103d birthday August 20, 1884, with twenty friends. Aided by her staff she walked to the place of meeting. Previous to dancing license was taken to drink her health. There was a prompt response by the old lady who declared that it had been her habit through her long life now and then to take a drop, and that she always felt better after it. When the music began and there was a call for an old fashioned breakdown, she took the floor with a partner, bent on going through the figures of a genuine fore and after. But it was a walk over simply, the aged dancer declaring "there was too much reumatiz hanging around her left ankle joint, otherwise she'd shake the dust out of the floor seams with a vengeance." We conclude with the case of William Hamilton who died last July, at the age of 102. He was an honest man, attended strictly to his own business, was respected by all who knew him and had been an inveterate smoker for years. His house was on Zion street. His end was peaceful and he retained nearly all his faculties to the last.

1963. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: Married.

Bradway - Wallen - In Willimantic, Dec. 3, by Rev. S.R. Free, Franklin H. Bradway and Miss Mary C. Wallen, both of Willimantic.

Elliot - McAvoy - In Willimantic, Dec. 9, at the residence of the bride's mother, by Rev. Geo. W. Holman, Mr. George W. Elliot to Miss Jennie F. McAvoy, both of Willimantic.

1964. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: Died.

Hall - In this village Dec. 12, Edwin H. Hall; aged 64.

Carey - In this village Dec. 13, Annie E Carey, aged 30.

1965. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: Birds. There will be on Sale a lot of fine Canaries in full Song and fine Plumage with a variety of other Birds to be sold at reasonable prices on the following days commencing Monday Dec. 22 until Saturday evening. R. Willis, Turnerville, Conn.

1966. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: Sleighs for Sale - A number of new and stylish sleighs for Sale Cheap. Also a good supply of Carriages and Wagons. George T. Spafford, North Windham, Conn.

1967. TWC Wed Dec 17, 1884: To Whom it May Concern: Notice is hereby given that the inhabitants of the central district of the town of Windham: Will apply to the next General Assembly of the State of Connecticut, to convene on the Wednesday after the fist Monday of January A.D., 1885, for an alteration of the charter of said Centre District so as to provide, at any and all proper times, for an apportionment of highways between said Centre District and the Town of Windham. Dated at Windham this fifteenth day of December A.D., 1884. William Swift, Clerk and Treasurer. Henry Page, Arthur R. Williams, James G. Martin, Committee.

1968. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: About Town.

The schools are closed for two weeks' vacation.

Rev. S.R. Free omitted his Sunday evening lecture this week on account of the storm.

Thomas J. Roberts is making the annual military enrollment.

Elisha Burnham, for nearly half a century a resident of this village died on Saturday night.

A lighted kerosene lantern placed under the robe when riding will keep the feet and limbs warm in the coldest weather. Try it.

Our churches were thinly attended last Sunday on account of the weather which was bad enough to break up a town meeting.

James Picknell is putting up a cottage in South Windham for Mrs. C.N. Payne.

Lincoln & Boss have the contract to furnish the lumber and Prof. M. Sullivan has the stone work in hand.

Rev. Richard K. Ashley formerly rector of the Episcopal church at Windham, passed away from earth at his residence in this village on Monday.

1969. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: The Woonsocket Morning Reporter, the new paper mentioned last week, departed this life after a brief existence. Last Friday evening a fire in the building smoked out the Evening Reporter which appeared on Saturday as a half sheet.

1970. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: At the annual communication of Eastern Star Lodge No. 44, A.F. & A.W., held at Masonic hall, Wednesday evening Dec. 17th 1884, the following officers were elected for the year ensuing: W.M. Richard L. Wiggins, S.W., Dr. Chase. J. Fox, J.W., DeWitt C. Hill, Treasurer, Frank S. Fowler, Sec'y, Gustavus F. Tilden. S.D., B.O. Spalding, J.D., James Smith, S.S., Jonathan Delap, Organist, Lemuel Warner, Marshall, Charles S. Billings. The officers elect were duly installed by Past Master John G. Keigwin, and Past Master Charles S. Billings as Grand Marshall.

1971. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Dr. C.E. Strong and Miss Edith M. Bailey were married at the residence of Rev. S.R. Free yesterday. Both parties have a host of friends in town who wish them happiness in their new relation.

1972. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: The O.E.S. silk bedquilt was drawn at Masonic Hall last evening at half-past eight o'clock. Miss Theresa, a niece of Charles D. Peck was blindfolded and drew number 103, which was held by Miss Hortense Taft, who received the elegant gift.

1973. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: The Pawtucket Gazette and Chronicle issued a double sheet last week profusely illustrated. The paper looked as if it could hardly be spread out in the state of Rhode Island without the corners hanging over into the neighboring territory.

1974. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Messrs. Sweeney & Dunn have opened a store in Cranston building under the title of the New York and Willimantic Novelty store. They will give away a beautiful doll on January 20. Every purchaser of goods to the amount of 50 cents receives a ticket.

1975. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: A man in a neighboring town went into a house where there was a telephone the other day. Soon the bell began to ring. Gazing at it with some curiosity he remarked: "It beats thunder that the man there in Willimantic can yank that wire hard enough to ring that bell eight miles away."

1976. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Dr. G.B. Hamlin has applied for a patent on a little notion which he has had in his head for years. It is a boiler feeder which instead of forcing water in against the steam pressure, drops it in by its own weight, thus requiring little or no power to run it. It also keeps the water at a uniform height in the boiler with no possibility of it getting higher or lower, requiring no attention from the engineer. The Doctor has added a pump to the machine to lift water from a well and is experimenting with this at present. One good thing about the invention is that it can be applied to any size of boiler for a very insignificant sum, being very simple.

1977. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: During the past year there have been altogether fourteen children received in the County Home on Putnam Heights and of that number eight have been provided with homes in private families, thus relieving the towns and county from all expense for their future care. Of the fourteen children received into the institution there were sent from Thompson 5, Pomfret 4, Woodstock 1, Putnam 1, Killingly 1, Brooklyn 1, and Windham 1.

1978. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Willimantic Council No 722, Royal Arcanum, elected

Thursday evening the following officers for the year ensuing: regent W.D. Brigham; vice-regent H.R. Lincoln; orator, Frank Larrabee; secretary, Charles N. Daniels; treasurer, Henry F. Royce; chaplain, W.H.H. Bingham; guide, Nelson W. French; warden, Ebenezer Baker; sentinel, Walter Lennox; Medical examiner, Charles James Fox, M.D.; trustees, M.E. Lincoln, D.W.C. Hill, and W.H. Wales.

1979. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Brooklyn has a fountain such as we just escaped not long ago. The New York Star commends on it as follows: The fellow named Cogswell, who has had the temerity to offer this municipality a drinking fountain, seems to be an empiric who is taking the same method of advertising his nostrums in different cities. He has succeeded in getting upon of his structures in Brooklyn, and the population is almost moved to tears or dynamite at its contemplation. It is of zinc, fifteen feet high, with an advertisement of Cogswell blown in one side and his life-size effigy in a frock coat on top.

Surrounded by blue glass lanterns with white stars cut in them, it is about the most fiendish and vulgar horror that ever disfigured a public thoroughfare and gave small children colic. Of course a similar outrage is not possible over here.

1980. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: The festival, fair and the social entertainment, given by the ladies of the M.E. church last week was a decided success not withstanding the unfavorable weather on both evenings. It is generally acknowledged that the music under the direction of Charles B. Jordan was the best ever heard at an entertainment of this kind in Willimantic. The solo's "That Traitor Love" and "Some Day" by Miss Mattie Goodrich, "Yeoman's Wedding" and "Six Feet of Earth" by Mr. George Clark, "The Pilot" and "Midship Mite" by Mr. James Simpson, and "Somebody's Pride" by Mr. Charles B. Jordan were admirably rendered and warmly applauded. In the male quartet "The Fisherman and His Child" by Messrs. Jordan, Simpson, Clark and Roberts and the quartette "Come Where My Love Lies Dreaming" by Miss Etta Young, Miss May Rollinson and Messrs Simpson and Roberts each part was most excellently sustained, as also in the duets and the rendering of the entire programme conclusively proves that we have first-class musical talent in Willimantic.

1981. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Temperance: Notwithstanding the inclemency of the

weather a good audience was present at the meeting of the Reform society in Mission hall Sunday evening. Rev. S.C. Kimball of Newmarket, N.H., was introduced as the speaker of the evening, and proceeded to show the advance which the temperance cause has made in the past forty years, and some of the hindrances to the execution of prohibition liquor law in the state of New Hampshire, one of which is the fact that the democratic and republican parties are so evenly divided that the nomination of a prohibitory candidate by either of said parties means certain defeat. The temperance people vote for their party, while liquor dealers vote for those will not interfere with their criminal business irrespective of party. On motion of Col. Marvin Knowlton a committee was appointed to look after signers of the pledge and as far as possible to secure work for those who are out of employment. The committee is as follows: Marvin Knowlton, J.A. Lewis, W.W. Nicholas, Geo. Cohoon, Geo. A. Conant, Joel Fox and J.A. Conant. Adjourned one week.

1982. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Police Notes: On Saturday the 13th inst., sheriff

Pomeroy went to So. Windham and brought back with him Daniel Reardon, charged with assault on Horace Warner proprietor of the "Bee Hive" saloon in that village. At his trial before Justice Sumner, that worthy magnate fined him $1 and costs - $10.03.

At an early hour Thursday morning last Joseph Locke jr., while intoxicated, went into Maxwell Bro's livery stable on Meadow street and became involved in an altercation with Henry Maxwell. From words they came to blows, and Mr. Maxwell was brutally beaten, to such an extent as to give but faint hopes of his recovery. Locke was arrested and shortly after was given a hearing, but being too much under the influence of liquor to testify, his Honor, Justice Bowen adjourned the case until afternoon when some weighty evidence was brought forward. His Honor placed young Locke under $75 bonds for his appearance at high court. Bonds were furnished by deputy sheriff M.P. Thompson of Plainfield. A civil action has also been entered against Locke and all his personal property, live stock, etc., has been attached by Mr. Maxwell to satisfy a judgment (if one is granted) in his suit to recover damages and for medical attendance. We have since learned that Mr. Maxwell is likely to die of his injuries.

A central station on Main street for our police would not be amiss. In all well regulated cities the officers are relieved every two hours, and have a good four hour's rest before going on duty again. This is a good argument in favor of those of our night police, "whose homes are not convenient enough to run into every little while during the night," and who remain on duty from 7 p.m., till daybreak, and are exposed to rather inclement weather at times. A person desiring the services of an officer after hours, could easily find one seeing a lamp with "Police Station" lettered upon it. A suitable person should be in attendance to see to the fire, and take the names and descriptions of all lodgers or prisoners for reference in the future.

1983. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Headquarters Co. E, 3d Regt., C.N.G. Willimantic, Conn. Dec. 24, 1884. There will be a special meeting of this Company Friday evening, Dec. 26, 1884 all members are requested to be present as business of importance will be transacted. Per Order. Thomas Foran, Capt. Com. John Crawford, First Sergeant.

1984. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Mansfield.

There are some in town who have fully digested their Thanksgiving and are preparing for Christmas, but are a little careless who is to bear the expense. Last week they thought that Mr. Asa Sherman and Frank Dunham were able to contribute and laid their plans accordingly, and Mr. Dunham lost his pet gobbler. The thieves are spotted and will be watched in the future.
Mr. Charles Jacobson's team consisting of a yoke of oxen and pair of horses ran away last week on the Mount Hope road completely demoralizing the oxen, breaking the horns from one and fitting the sides for corned beef by dragging him down the hills. Charles says he will in future see that his horses have legitimate business enough to attend to without resorting to side issues - just for fun.

The road question which has been agitating the minds of the tax payers for the last few months, was (as it is hoped) finally settled last Thursday, and the next wrestle is to be with the water commissioners or committee by this town appointed and it is hoped that the voters will be as magnanimous as they were with the projectors of the new road, when they voted to accept two layouts and trying to please everybody, by virtually saying "Gentlemen you pays your money now take your choice - or both."

J. Daggett has sold the grist and saw mill in Gurleyville to R.W. Storrs Esq., of Spring Hill.

1985. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Andover.

Rev. Mr. Barbour of Bolton preached at the Congregational church last Sunday. In the evening the Rev. Mr. Ellsworth rector of St. Peter's church Hebron, held services in the same church. Though the weather was very stormy a considerable number of our people were in attendance. The services were very interesting, and to some of our young people they were new and novel. The sermon was able and instructive. Mr. Bissell organist at St. Peter's was present with a few members of his choir, and rendered some excellent music.

Though the thermometer did not go quite as low here in the late cold snap, as is reported form some points in Canada, still we are very well satisfied with our record, which was from 10 degrees to 16 degrees below Saturday morning. The later figure is reported by Mr. H.F. Standish.

The Ladies' society met with Mrs. C.L. Backus Thursday evening.

1986. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Mansfield Centre.

Last Saturday a week Dec. 13, the wild geese indulged in a general stampede southward, several large flocks passed over during the day, and more during the night following. Why they delayed their annual flight until it was so late in the season, is a matter of conjecture. Some folks versed in sign lore, claim that this late flight or migration, is an omen of an open and mild winter. But the weather last Saturday morning (a week later) when the mercury shrank down to nineteen degrees below zero, served to dispel such an illusion, and weaken confidence in all the signs appertaining to an open winter.

The Ladies' social circle of this place met with Mrs. Doctor Marsh last week, and was coupled with an entertainment, which was highly pleasing and satisfactory to those who witnessed it and they report a general good time.

1987. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Grand Chancellor, Rev. John Lyon of Bridgeport and

Past Grand Chancellor, S.M. Baker of Middletown attended the meeting of Natchaug Lodge No. 22, E.P., last evening. Work in the third degree was exemplified. After the meeting the guests were tendered a banquet at Hotel Commercial. The visitors found Natchaug Lodge in a flourishing condition and with a large and healthy increase in membership and finances.

1988. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Mrs. Howe's Battle Hymn. The greatest poem of the war was written at Washington by Julia Ward Howe, under the title of "The Battle Hymn of the Republic." It is sung to the tune of "John Brown," and commences, "Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord." Mrs. Howe wrote it early one morning, and it is said she penned it with her eyes shut. The night before she had been out riding in the country near Washington and her party had narrowly escaped being captured by a troop of Confederates. As they came into Washington they sang "John Brown's Body," and the tune kept ringing in Mrs. Howe's head all night. When she awoke before daylight she began to make verses to it, and in the fear that she would forget them she wrote them off,

according to a habit she had formed to save her eyes, without looking at the paper. Mrs. Howe is still living and she ranks among the leaders of the woman's rights movement. Speaking of "John Brown's Body," the tune itself is an old Methodist camp meeting tune and the words were adapted to it by a glee club of Boston in 1861. It was first published at Charlestown, Mass. Captain James Greenleaf, an organist of the Harvard Church, set the note for music and a Massachusetts regiment made them first noted by singing them at Fort Warren in 1861.

1989. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Burglars forced an entrance to the office of the Lee's Manufacturing company north of the village of Westport, Thursday night. They failed to break open the safe and then broke into the picker room, and set it on fire. The fire was put out before much damage was done except to the machine called the "grubber." The works cannot run until the repairs on the machine are made. The total loss is over $1,000 and is covered by insurance.

1990. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: The Swiss criminal who was sentenced to this country for life, will be carefully returned to his fatherland; the United States has not yet hung out its shingle as a penal colony which fact other countries will do well to notice.

1991. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: The World's Fair at New Orleans was formally opened last week and promises to be a great success. Connecticut agricultural exhibit is under the care and management of P.M. Augur who will not allow the nutmeg state to be set in the shade.

1992. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: North Windham.

There was no preaching here last Sabbath, and the notice posed on the church door, of the Christian Society's annual meeting for Saturday evening next reminds one that the year is almost gone. No past year can record so many losses by death of those who were interested in this Society and community.

Among the four which we have in mind, the last to be called away was Mr. E.H. Hall of Willimantic. He was one of our inhabitants from 1867 till 1878, and while with us helped with a liberal hand. The people here had looked forward for many years to the time when we should have a resident owner of the mill property, and when in 1872 Mr. H. bought the property of the late Capt. Swift of Windham, and additional residences for himself and son, we began to hope for better things. Most of the buildings and their surroundings were in need of repairs, but from that forward, improvement has been the watchword. The great flood, at the recollection of which we shudder was a great loss and discouragement. He with four others went down with the falling bridge. One went down to his death, the others escaped miraculously. We think he with others never thoroughly recovered form the severe shock they sustained at that time, but with characteristic energy he came to the front again - as he had many times in earlier life and in due time, the town of Windham, and the firm of E.H. Hall & Son, brought order and beauty and durability out of the perfect chaos of ruin and destruction which greeted us on that memorable morning of March 1870. The work did not stop there. Since that time every building has been repaired but one of the oldest, at the top of the hill, several new ones built, neat board fences have taken the places of those unsightly ones of wood and stone, and lastly the mill itself enlarged and the whole structure and its surroundings beautified and provided with the latest improves. Standing here it leaves a monument to the memory of Mr. Hall not soon to be forgotten.

1993. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: On Friday, the members of the board of pardons, with the exception of Morris W. Seymour of Bridgeport, met at the capitol for the last time this year. Of all the applications for release form the state prison only three received favorable consideration from the board: This first was that of John Harrison, who was sentenced for three years from Fairfield county in September, 1883. He has been a cripple for some time and suffers considerably. The second case was of John Leary, sentenced from Middlesex county in December of 1881 for manslaughter. The sentence was for six years and $1 and costs. Garret Stack is the name of the third fortunate who received the favorable consideration of the board. He was sentenced in Bridgeport in March 1883, to seven years' confinement for arson. The fact that his health is shattered no doubt induced the board to grant the pardon. His pardon, if signed by Mr. Seymour, taken effect March 23, 1885. The pardons of Harrison and Leary take effect as soon as signed.

1994. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Mr. George O. Kinne foreman at Colt's armory and representative elect to the legislature was united in marriage last Friday, by Rev. Mr. Watson at the residence of the bride's mother on Buckingham street, to Miss Eunice E. Wright organist at the church of the Good Shepherd. Mr. and Mrs. Kinne left on the evening train for New York where they will remain several days.

1995. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: The Mills of Putnam. The Monahansett mills have continued to work on full time through all the dull season and are expecting to furnish employment full time to their full complement of hands.

The silk mill is working full time, and no doubt will continue to give steady employment to the help all winter.

The repairs on the mills of the Putnam Manufacturing Company are very extensive and costly, having been carried on all through the long suspension of work. It was expected that the work would all be so advanced that the mills would have been started up this week but it is found impossible to get the machinery perfect in order under a week or ten days yet. But as the year is closing and the time to take account of stock has arrived, this may postpone active operations for a longer period. It settled, however, that work is to be resumed at the earliest possible day. We learn that the large accumulation of stock are being fast marketed - 80 bales were shopped to one order on Tuesday - which gives promise of continuous work after the mills are once mores started up. - Patriot.

1996. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Married.

Hart - Abell - At. St. Paul's Rectory No. 15 High St., Willimantic, on Sunday evening Dec. 21, 1883, by the Rev. Richard S. Searing, Rector of St. Paul's Chapel, Mr. John D. Hart and Miss Susie E. Abell; all of Willimantic.

Domnick - Massasuetie - In this village Dec. 23, by Rev. S.R. Free. Dlyer Domnick and Miss Katherine Massasutie [sic]; both of Willimantic.

Strong - Bailey - In this village Dec. 23, by Rev. S.R. Free, Charles E. Strong of New Haven to Miss Edith M. Bailey of Willimantic.

1997. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Died.

Barrows - In Hartford, Dec. 14, at the residence of her grandfather F.F. Barrows, Daisy E, eldest child of Frederick M. and Emma L. Barrows of Mansfield Centre; aged 7 years, 4 months.

Burnham - In this village Dec. 20, Elisha Burnham; aged 74.

Ashley - In this village Dec. 22d, Rev. Richard K. Ashley.

Fahey - In this village, Dec. 20, Maggie May, daughter of John Fahey; aged 2 years, 6 months.

Moulton - In Windham, Dec. 23, Electa Kingsbury, relict of the late Capt. John Moulton; aged 83.

1998. TWC Wed Dec 24, 1884: Whereas My Wife, Emma E. Webster having left my bed and board I hereby forbid all persons trusting or harboring her on my account. Ward W. Webster, Willimantic, Conn., Dec. 2_ [20th?], 1884.

1999. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: About Town.

The St. Joseph's parochial school is closed for ten days vacation.

Notices have been posted forbidding coasting in the streets of the borough.

Capt. Foran sports a newly patented peanut roaster.

Parties from Boston are negotiating for the control of the skating rink in this village.

Paper is now used for skating rink floors. It is said to be more durable than wood, and makes less noise.

Samuel Chesbro has tickets to Florida and New Orleans at lowest rates. Any information furnished. Enquire at Fred Rogers' drug store.

There has been of late a decided improvement in the business of the Holland Silk company, and the mills are gradually approaching full time again.

It is probable that Kennedy, the wife murderer, will be placed on trial at the January term of the superior court which convenes in New London next week Tuesday.

Rev. Henry B. Mead has resigned his pastorate at Stonington, and at present with his family is stopping at the home of Mrs. Mead's parents in Plymouth, Conn.

The game laws for the protection of the woodcock, quail and partridge will go into effect Jan. 1, continuing in force till Oct. 1.

Telephone connection was made with Hampton Hill yesterday.

2000. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: The firm of Wilson & Leonard is this day dissolved by mutual consent. Mr. Wilson will continue the business at the old stand. Mr. Leonard has purchased a building lot opposite J.R. Robinson's new house, and expects to erect a dwelling for himself thereon.

2001. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: William Corbin, editor and proprietor of the Southbridge Herald, died at Southbridge last Thursday morning of stoppage.

Deceased was about 27, and was unmarried. By energy and ability he achieved business success under adverse circumstances.

2002. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Company E will go to New London February 22nd for a competitive drill with Company C of Norwich. The new armory at New London is to be dedicated on that evening and a big time is expected. The drill will excite considerable interest, and our boys do not expect as easy a victory as they had on the former occasion.

2003. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Sometimes we think that the Norwich Gazette don't like Rev. Hugh Montgomery. Last Saturday it said: "Last year he distributed $2,600-$2,000 to the missionary and $600 to God's children - the poor and needy and the effort was so great he will require a three months' vacation to get his head in shape again."

2004. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: A Rugby Junction social will be given in the parlors of the congregational church to-morrow evening. The affair is conducted as follows: Each lady brings a box or other package of eatables, placing her name on the inside. These boxes are sold to the gentlemen at auction, and the purchaser shares with the lady whose name e finds in the package. The social held a few weeks ago was a very pleasant affair and was productive of a great deal of fun. All are invited.

2005. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Radiant Chapter No. 11, order of the Easter [mean Eastern?] Star held their annual assembly at Masonic Hall on Friday evening and elected the following officers which were duly installed by Dr. C.J. Fox, Grand Lecturer of the Grand Chapter O.E.S., of Conn., assisted by Mrs. Hattie Palmer, as Marshal, W.M., Mrs. E.T. Hamlin; W.P., Mr. Charles T. Billings; A.M., Mrs. O.B. Clark; Treas., Mr. E.T. Hamlin; Sec., Dr. C.J. Fox; Cond., Mrs. R.L. Wiggins; Associate Cond., Miss E.S. Ripley; Adah, Mrs. C.E. Billings; Ruth, Miss C.A. Peckens; Esther, Miss H.E. Battey; Martha, Mrs. G.L. Phillips; Electa Miss L. Purinton; Warden, Mrs. C.E. Congdon; Chaplain, Mr. B.E. Smith; organist, Mrs. L. Warner; Sentinel, Mr. R.L. Wiggins.

2006. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: The Water Works: - The water commissioners have purchased a strip of land eighty feet wide from the Young estate, extending from the mountain road to the proposed site of the reservoir on Hosmer mountain a distance of about forty rods. The land required for the reservoir and its surroundings, between eight and nine acres, belongs to the Haydens, and they have fixed the price at $2000. This the commissioners consider altogether too high, and unless satisfactory arrangements can be made at once, appraisers will be appointed according to the terms of the charter and the price fixed. If the commissioners had the deed of the site of the reservoir, they would have a force of men at work at once clearing off the lot, and while the frost does not interfere, digging away the superfluous earth and preparing the necessary embankments. If we have such weather as December has given us this work could as well be done now as at any other time and would furnish work for half a hundred laborers at a time when they need work most. The reservoir will be about 250 by 150 feet inside, and will be enclosed by a stone wall backed up by a strong embankment of earth. The commissioners are pushing the work as fast as possible, and will have a force of men on the ground as soon as they secure a title to it. The contract for pipe laying and trenches is in press and will be ready for the inspection of bidders in a few days. It calls for digging the ditches and laying 10,887 feet of 14 inch pipe, 4,892 feet of 12 inch, 100 feet of 10 inch, 4,165 feet of 8 inch, 34,600 feet of 6 inch and 400 feet of 4 inch with valves and curbs, setting 120 hydrants, two street watering stand-pipes, 1500 cubic yards of rock excavation, 20 cubic yards of mortared masonry and 20 cubic yards of dry masonry. The attention of contractors is called to advertisement in another column. By the terms of the contract the work is to be begun as early as April first and completed before the end of July.

2007. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Police Notes: Elwood Neff a youth of about 17 years, was on Friday before the bar charged with disorderly and malicious conduct, in smashing a pane of glass in one of the dives leading off Main street. He was copped by officer Brown and presented to Justice Sumner, who settled his account by fining him $1 and costs. While the above trial was in progress, John McMahon a "gentleman of leisure" who had been resting himself in the lockup for several nights previous, entered and asked his Honor to send him over to Brooklyn. His remark caused much laughter and Justice Sumner informed him that as he had committed no illegal act, his request could not be complied with. He then left saying he would soon do something, and brought up at Kingsley's restaurant where he obtained a bellyful of grub cooked in first class style by "uncle Charlie," and then coolly informed Mr. Kingsley that he had no money. Dumont being busy could not go for an officer, so a might hunter was placed on the trail and true to his name, he soon treed officer Brown, who in obedience to Justice Sumner's orders conveyed the dilapidated swell to Brooklyn.

Patrick Connors a boy of 13 years, was pulled in by chief Clark, Monday afternoon for hitting an old man named Moriarty in the face with a snowball. He was tried before Justice Bowen at 7 p.m., and owing to his youth and it being his first offence grand juror Davison withdrew the fine, and the lad was released on payment of costs - $4.48.

Maria Doyle a notorious nymph du pare, was arraigned before Justice Sumner yesterday morning, charged with intoxication and street walking. She has recently served a 10 day's term in Norwich jail for a like offence. His Honor found her guilty on both counts and imposed a sentence of 30 days in jail on each count together with costs of $7.16 on one and $6.16 on the other. It is said that she recently recovered a large sum for damages received, from a certain railroad company. She will be remembered as having been the bone of contention in the affray in front of the post office July 13, 1883, in which Thomas Hastings was severely stabbed by a Frenchman calling himself Francis Edwards, the latter receiving as his punishment by the superior court, a sentence of 60 days in the county jail.

2008. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Police Record, 1884. Borough of Willimantic. In submitting my report for the year 1884, if I have "trod on anyone's toes" I will state that it was done without prejudice and with the kindliest of feelings. I have endeavored to be accurate and above all - just. And that I have succeeded, is proven by the fact that in my data of the 125 arrests made during the year ending to-day, not one has been contradicted, privately or otherwise. This small number speaks well for Willimantic and that it is no larger is due to the brave efforts of Sheriff Pomeroy and Officers Shurtliff, Clark, Brown, Whitford, Roberts and Martin, who have proved themselves ever on the alert in the interests of our citizens as called for by their official position. The crimes included in this report are various, and one (peculiarly atrocious,) in which unfortunately no law could reach, Justice was compelled to let go. They were - Attempted murder; attempted suicide; intoxication; abuse of family; malicious mischief; sodomy; highway robbery; wife beating; mother beating; burglary; trampism; theft; street walking; assault and battery; attempted rape; resisting officer; stealing rides; fighting; embezzlement; false pretence; keeping bawdy house; defrauding liverymen, and lewdness. There have been a few illegal arrests which are accounted for most likely, by the greenness of the too zealous officer making the arrest. One of these hasty arrests earned the officer the well merited and scathing rebuke which he received. Several cases were settled before arriving at issue. I desire to thank Judges E.B. Sumner, A.J. Bowen, G.A. Conant, Hubert Clark, Grand Jurors E.E. Burnham, R. Davison, Sheriff C.B. Pomeroy and our police force for the ready and willing manner in which they have always granted me details, when I called upon them for this purpose. Regarding the establishing of a central police headquarters for the police, as mentioned in our last issue, the Journal seems to be "on the fence," and in my estimation the public can hardly form a conclusive opinion from the columns of that paper on the subject in question. If, as the Journal says "it will involve additional expense to the borough," I would advise the borough to utilize the lower front room in the town hall for the purpose, it is there and would "involve no additional expense." It could be fitted up with desk and stove and the usual paraphernalia, at a trifling outlay, and with a competent officer in attendance everything would glide along smoothly, our taxpayers need not worry in fear of an extra tax rate, and the mealy mouthed tongue wagers would be squelched. I often wonder if while they growl about municipal economy, whether some of them may not have an unpaid tax bill laid away in the archives of their office or homes. Perhaps a few are subject to chronic "rheumatism" and are oblivious to their own maudlin talk. During the past week nearly 150 of our citizens and merchants have signed a petition, requesting the Burgesses to create a central police station, and which will be presented for action at the next regular meeting of that body. We hope that it will meet with success, and that the list of signers may be trebled by that time. In closing, permit me to wish you all, the Journal also - a happy and prosperous New Year. Respectfully, R.E. Beville, Court Reporter.

2009. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Ashford.

On the evening of the 16th inst. There was a very pleasant meeting of the friends and neighbors of Doctor C.L. Ormsbee and lady at their residence in Westford, on the occasion of the fifth anniversary of their marriage, when, at the Doctor's invitation, they assembled to the number of about one hundred and seventy-five, to signify their high appreciation of the Doctor both personally and professionally, and their regard for his estimable wife. There were present friends from Ashford, Chaplin, Eastford, Union, Willington, and other places. It would be impossible here to enumerate the many valuable presents of which the Doctor and his wife were the thankful recipients on this occasion, such as camp chair, silver plated forks, comfortable, book case, cut of cotton cloth, sets of glass and crockery, picture frames, fuel, various kinds of provisions, and innumerable other articles of beauty an intrinsic value. The table was elegantly spread and richly laden with such things as appease hunger and give joy to him who partaketh thereof. And after as many as could be seated at once had done justice to themselves, and what was on the table, the table was immediately cleared and replenished, and this process was continued until one hundred and fifty-eight persons had eaten and "were filled," and still there was no sign of scarcity, and we are sure that more than seven basketsful remained. The young people of Westford had united in the purchase of an elegant hanging lamp, and had suspended it in the Doctor's officer over the center table, and invited Capt. George Platt, who was present, to make a formal presentation of it to the Doctor, and, after as many of those present as could possibly be gathered in and near the spacious office had been invited to listen, he proceeded to address the Doctor essentially as follows: "Sir, having just been commissioned by the young people of Westford to perform a very pleasant duty, I desire, in their behalf, to say that they have seen fit to hang this splendid lamp in your office, they ask you to accept it as a token of their esteem for you as a neighbor, a friend and physician. They ask you to allow it to remain in its present position as long as it will give light to you and yours, and when you sit beneath its brilliant illumination may you ever remember in friendship the motive of the donors in placing it where it is. When your earthly vision shall cease to receive light therefrom and you are called to go out into the 'great beyond,' may you come into that full light which is the fulfillment of the Christian's hope." The Doctor responded in some well chosen remarks, accepting with thanks, the gift so generously presented by the young people of Westford, saying it was a scene long to be remembered by him, saying that he would gladly allow it to remain where they had placed it, and that by its light he would endeavor in every possible way to fit himself for the proper discharge of his professional duties. Appropriate remarks were made by Stephen B. Tifft of Westford, Doctor O. Witter of Chaplin, Rev. Mr. Brown and others. Mrs. C.N. Badger had kindly loaned her organ for the occasion, and vocal and instrumental music could be heard almost continuously. All seemed to enjoy themselves until the small hours of the night began to grow larger; and then they, after wishing the Doctor and his wife the return of many more anniversaries, left for their respective homes. You Know.

2010. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Columbia.

On Christmas eve Miss Sophia J. Thompson was the recipient of a fine Smith organ a gift from her parents. Several families in the neighborhood had united in having a Xmas tree at Mr. Thompson's residence and the tree standing in a corner of the parlor was obscured from view by a curtain and when the guests were ushered in music issued from that corner and Miss Sophia was astonished when Santa Clause presented her with the organ the same having been placed there while she was at school thus furnishing a complete surprise. There were several family trees at other places.

Simon Hunt and William H. Yeomans attended the annual meeting of the state Board of Agriculture at Meriden.

Miss Julia S. Avery is home on a short vacation from her school in Brockton also her brother Fred from Hartford.

Notice has been served upon Frank P. Collins that his seat in the House is contested by his opponent Rev. F.D. Avery.

Jo Clark has been home on the sick list.

Payson E. Little and family have been visiting friends in town for a few days. It is gratifying to their many friends here to know that Messrs. Little & Lyman the young men from this place, who are engaged in the boot and shoe business at Willimantic are meeting with such marked success. This is a result that comes from fair and honest dealing with customers, in furnishing goods that can be recommended, and people from all sections of the county appreciating such dealing are disposed to bestow upon them a good share of patronage, a course which has given them a "Merry Christmas" and will also give them a "Happy New Year."

2011. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Mansfield.

Chicken thieving seems to be the order of the day and appearances seem to indicate an organized gang who work by rule. Augustus Storrs lost several turkeys, John Daggett, loses his all and Orsemus Story comes in for a small loss. The thieving has become so extensive that farmers have spoken of combining to ferret out the thieves. Atwood Bros. lost 25 chickens last week but found them all under the roost bitten through the head. They think it was either a mink or one of the coons that the Doctor didn't catch last fall.

As. Mr. Asahel Sumner of Ashford was driving down Cider Hill last week with a pair of horses and carriage, the fore axle broke and threw him on one of the horses' heels which kicked and landed him beside the road somewhat bruised. His son fetched the team up by Fenner's Cider Mill without further damage. It was a very narrow escape for Mr. Sumner.

The Gurleyville grist and saw mill changed hands again last week and Mr. George Walker of Mount Hope will assume command at an early date. It is thought that speculation on the property will cease now and that George will come to stay.

2012. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Andover.

Rev. Mr. Parmelee of Exeter preached at the Congregational church last Sunday.

Erving Peters was brought before Justice E.P. Skinner, Monday morning charged with an assault upon his sister-in-law Mrs. Annie Peters. He pleaded guilty and was fined one dollar and costs.

Another town meeting has been called for Saturday afternoon, Jan. 3d, 5o further consider the burying ground question.

The Orphan's Home is slowly growing in the popular estimation. There are eight children being cared for there, and they make quite an addition to the school of the S.E. District.

2013. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: The New Britain weekly Herald has come down to four pages.

2014. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Lebanon.

A white weasel, an exceedingly rare animal in these parts was killed recently by A. Rockwell Race an amateur taxidermist who will add it to his collection of stuffed animals and birds.

Some of our fair "Patrons of Husbandry" have also become patrons of the fine arts. Miss Phipps, an accomplished teacher from Norwich, has a class of young ladies here to whom she is giving instruction in the art of painting. Herbert Loomis, son of Lester P. Loomis one of our most promising young men, having engaged with the firm of Adams & Holbrook of Colchester for the ensuing year, entered upon his duties as clerk on Friday last. The situation thus secured is a desirable one. That the young man will prove faithful and efficient is beyond question. Both parties are to be congratulated.

Christmas, with its pleasant family gatherings and public festivities has come and gone, and the day when nice young men declare and swear they "never or 'hardly ever' will again," is at hand. At the First church appropriate exercises were held. A Christmas tree was prepared, the fruit of which gladdened the hearts and tickled the palates of over a hundred of the buds and blossoms of humanity. Wm. A. Wetmore, the popular Sunday School Superintendent was presented with an elegant rocking chair and ten dollars in filthy lucre.
In Exeter the children and grandchildren of Deacon Benjamin Nye, as is their custom, gathered at the paternal mansion and spent the day an evening in feasting, social intercourse and merry-making. The deacon was pleasantly surprised by his grandchildren with an easy chair to which he can retire when too hard pressed by his old enemy, the rheumatism; while his better half can keep him company arrayed in a valuable dress, an acceptable present from her children. Both gifts were acknowledged in the deacon's usual happy and characteristic style. And here your correspondent would tender his profound thanks to a thoughtful neighbor who presented him with a rugged and beautifully wrought pair of gallowses which he is assured when properly adjusted, will be a marked improvement upon the old and well worn body girth, in preventing one's trowsers from bagging and hanging too low on the edge.

2015. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Chaplin.

Rev. J.W. Sessions was in church Sunday for the first time since the cataracts were removed from his eyes.

Mr. and Mrs. Chas. W. Barber were in town for the holiday, on a visit to her parents.

Miss Alice Chaffee from So. Manchester is spending a few days with her aunt J.M. Robbins.

Misses Ella Martin and Coville who were in business in Manchester have returned home for a short time.

The Reed family celebrated Christmas at Spring Hill with Mr. and RMs. A. Freeman.

2016. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Mansfield Centre.

We notice from the papers that the Rev. F.D. Avery of Columbia, has served a notice on the Democratic Representative-Elect from that town contesting his seat in the next legislature. It appears that the "higher cultured" have aspirations and longings for worldly emoluments, that even a sanctified calling and a small plurality cannot overcome. If he, (the Rev.) should procure the assistance of the New York Tribune to manipulate the returns, in connection with the large republican preponderance in the legislature, he might peradventure succeeded in obtaining a seat that the suffrage of his fellow townsman does not entitle him to occupy.

2017. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Mansfield.

It is said that Rev. Mr. Tifft, of New London, has received and accepted a call to the pastorate of the Baptist church at Spring Hill. Since the departure of Rev. A.J. Chaplin the desk has been occupied at intervals by supplies.

There will be a family gathering and supper at the residence of G.W. Reynolds, Eagleville, New Year's afternoon, and in the evening the young folk will gather and make themselves happy at the home of Albert Storrs, Spring Hill.

Mrs. Alvah Bosworth has been quite feeble in health for several months, and her recovery is doubtful.

R.W. Storrs has sold his farm at the City, and purchased the saw and grist mill at Gurleyville, and has since sold the mills to Mr. Walker of Ashford.

C.A. Gurley and niece have gone to Polaska to spend the remainder of the winter at their old home. In early spring they will return again, and Mr. Gurley will continue the improvements on his farm at Spring Hill.

The committee appointed by the town to confer with the water commissioners of Willimantic relative to the flowing of a portion of the highway leading from the residence of Dr. Sumner to Windham Center, met last Friday and agreed upon a report, which will be presented to a meeting to be held by the town the first Monday in January next. The committee, it is understood, will favor the ceding to the town of Windham that portion of territory laying south and east of the Natchaug river, the river to be the boundary line between the two towns. It is also said that they will favor an amicable adjustment of the matter of flowing the highway for a money consideration to be agreed upon between the commissioners and the town. That the whole matter will be satisfactorily arranged there seems little doubt. At the same meting the acceptance or rejection of the layout for a new road from Mansfield Hollow to main road to Willimantic will be laid before the meeting. Mr. M. Johnson, the principal owner and business manager of the thread mill located at the hollow, is said to be the prime mover and main prop to this project for a new road. The present road is in excellent repair and graded with hard material, so that it is almost invariable free from mud and has been satisfactory to the public in the away back years beyond the memory of any man now living, and probably ever since the town was settled. That there is any special need, except to gratify a local desire, for so large an outlay as must necessarily be incurred to build the road and pay land damages is not apparent. Certainly there is no through travel that requires it, the general public do not ask nor want it. The matter has been brought up in special town meetings time and again, and, whenever there was anything like a full meeting, it has been heavily voted down, notwithstanding every voter favorable to the project has been drummed out to attend the meetings.

2018. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Married.

Carter - Parks - In Scotland, Dec. 25 by Rev. L.D. Place, Daniel E. Carter and Susan E. Parks.

2019. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Died.

Bingham - In South Windham, Dec. 28, Eunice Bingham; aged 88.

Daley - In this village, Dec. 28, William P., son of Michkel [sic] Daley; aged 7 years, 9 months, 22 days.

Wilson - In this village Dec. 26th, Olive C. Wilson; aged 68.

2020. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Notice of Dissolution of Partnership. Notice is hereby given that the partnership heretofore existing between Frank M. Wilson and John Leonard, under the firm of Wilson & Leonard, was dissolved on the 31st day of December A.D. 1884, by mutual consent. Frank M. Wilson is authorized to settle all debts due to and by the company, Frank M. Wilson, John Leonard. The undersigned will continue the business of said firm at the same place. Frank M. Wilson.

2021. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Notice - The Board of Relive of the Town of Windham will meet in the Town Rooms, Hayden Block, in Willimantic, on Monday, Jan. 5th, A.D. 1885, from 9 o'clock a.m. until 5 o'clock p.m. to attend to the duties of their appointments. The board will also meet at such times during the following twenty days, as adjournments may be made from time to time, to hear appeals from the doings of the Assessors. Silas F. Loomer, Thomas R. Congdon, Martin Flint, Board of Relief for Town of Windham.

2022. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: At a Court of Probate Holden at Windham within and for the district of Windham on the 31st day of December A.D. 1884. Present John D. Wheeler, Judge. On motion of Charles T. Barstow, administrator on the intestate estate of Charles L. Griffith late of Windham within said district deceased. This Court doth decree that six months be allowed and limited for the creditors of said estate to exhibit their claims against the same to administrator and directs that public notice be given of this order by advertising in a newspaper published in Willimantic and by posting a copy thereof on the public signpost in said town of Windham nearest the place where the deceased last dwelt. Certified from Record, John D. Wheeler, Judge.

2023. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: State of Connecticut at a Court of Probate holden at Hebron, within and for the district of Hebron, on the 23d day of December, A.D. 1884. Present, Marshall Porter, Esq., Judge. This court doth direct Cyrus H. Pendleton Executor on the estate of Clarissa Kellogg, late of Hebron, in said district, deceased, represented insolvent, to give notice to all persons interested in the estate of said deceased, to appear, (if they see cause,) before the Court of Probate to be holden at the Probate Office in said district, on the 7th day of January, 1885, at 1 o'clock p.m., to be heard relative to the appointment of Commissioners on said estate, by posting said order of notice on a public sign post in said town of Hebron nearest to the place where the deceased last dwelt, and by advertising the same in a newspaper published in Willimantic. Certified from Record, Anson Little, Clerk.

2024. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Wm. Clark sexton of the Congregational church at

Somers, received orders Monday to toll the bell 100 times as Walter Pease, 100 years and 9 months old died Sunday evening.

2025. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Rev. Hugh Montgomery resigned the position of city

missionary at Norwich but has been offered three months vacation if he will resume work.

2026. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Zephaniah Phelps 73 years old living in the backwoods near Hartford, tried to fly with a contrivance he invented. He started from the top of Walworth tower. The machine did not work and he fell to the ground breaking his collar bone and arm. Since he was 25 years old his hobby was to construct a flying machine. Saturday he took his traps to the mountain and climbed the tower. Some hours after he was found moaning with intense pain. If it had not been for the trees which broke his fall he would have been killed.

2027. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: An explosion of fulminate occurred at Bridgeport, Friday in a building connected with the Cartridge works, by which Peter Burns, aged 40 was blown to atoms. The building was blown to splinters. It is thought Burns dropped the pan of fulminate he was mixing. He was unmarried.

2028. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Thirty-one electric lights recently put up for city use in New Haven were lighted for the first time Friday night.

2029. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: New London county has a candidate for railroad commissioner in the person of Hon. Mason C. Hill of Mystic Bridge, a former extensive shipbuilder.

2030. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: James Hart and son, William, residing at Westport, were severely poisoned, Saturday, by eating "Rough on Rats." Both are yet in a precarious condition.

2031. TWC Wed Dec 31, 1884: Hon. Thomas A. Hendricks has consented to deliver the annual address before the Yale alumni and graduating classes at the commencement June 23d, 1885.