The Willimantic Chronicle - Year of 1883

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.

297. TWC Wed Mar. 7, 1883: [first few pages missing from this issue]

298. TWC Wed Mar. 7, 1883: Danielsonville and Vicinity Items.
Mr. Emanuel Pilling for several years past has been employed in a special department of the cloth room of the Quinebaug Mills. Last week he resigned that position to engage in other pursuits and his employees and associates desiring to express their esteem and respect for him called at his home, and presented him as a token of their kindly feelings an elegant seal ring, and a costly copy of the “Oxford Bible” and expressed their sincere regret at parting with so gentlemanly and kind employer and associate. Mr. Pilling responding to the sentiments expressed in the formalities of presentation welcomed them with the same cordiality and kindly greeting as he had ever in their daily association in the work room, and thanking them for their unexpected and gratifying manifestation of esteem, cherished the hope that the mutual friendship of the past and present might continue unbroken and undiminished through all our lives. After this the company devoted the evening to social enjoyment, mirth and music, and concluded by partaking of a plentiful collation provided by his parents with whom he resides, and remains in youthful bachelorship. Mr. Pilling as Superintendent of the Methodist church Sabbath school merits and receives the same good will and praise.
At a school meeting held last week it was voted unanimously to put up fire escapes at the High school building.

299. TWC Wed Mar. 7, 1883: Mansfield Centre.
The great Storrs’ agricultural hippodrome of North Mansfield seems to languish. Double the amount of last years state pap, is called for this year. The dissection of Tom cats and superannuated “yaller” dogs is a somewhat expensive job for the state. The ostensible purpose for which the school was created has been defeated by unpractical management and the interest of agriculture would be about as well promoted should the money be sued in sending the revised new testament to the uneducated Patagonians. The trustees modestly ask the present legislature to appropriate $10,000 for the coming year, $1,000 for a heater, $2,000 for a debt contracted large in furnishing the house and $2,000 to improve and increase the productiveness of the farm, and the balance $1,000 is supposed to be needed for incidental expenses. All this money requested for a school of nineteen boys, at an expense of $526.31 each yearly, although Mr. Barstow tells us that “most pay their tuition and some pay their board in part.” Now if there was the remotest possibility of the institution ever becoming permanent and self-supporting there might be some excuse for asking this appropriation. But under its present stupid management the money appropriated for its support is simply wasted so far as public benefit is concerned. The shrewd millionaires whose princely estates lie adjoining the school farm and who so generously donated the property to the state for the exclusive purpose of an agricultural school, foresaw in the failure of the experiment the return of their gifts, with a big rent in the way of improvements. Would it not under the circumstances be expedient, rather than feed the elephant longer at state expense, to return him to the original proprietors and save a large outlay for his keeping which grows fearfully with every year’s support.

300. TWC Wed Mar. 7, 1883: North Windham.
Another change in telegraphic affairs; Mr. G.R. Jackson, night operator, who has been afflicted with the measles at the residence of F.D. Spencer, has been transferred to the Pomfret office, and Mr. N.M. Hook of Ohio takes his place.
Mr. Albert Hartson has sold his grocery business to M.A. Bates, who will take possession Apr. 1st.

301. TWC Wed Mar. 7, 1883: Born.
Cunningham—In Scotland Feb. 21, a daughter to Fred W. and Annie Cunningham.

302. TWC Wed Mar. 7, 1883: Married.
Palmer-Deming—In Wethersfield, March 1st, by Rev. A. Howard, J. Ervin Palmer of Hartford to Fannie E. Deming of Wethersfield.

303. TWC Wed Mar. 7, 1883: Died.
Sullivan—In Willimantic, March 1st, Mary Sullivan, aged 35 years.
Kelly—In Willimantic, March 1st, John Kelly, aged 21 years.

304. TWC Wed Mar. 7, 1883: Stolen.—A 50 Inch Standard Columbia Bicycle, from the same room of Hotel Commercial. A reasonable sum will be paid for its return. C.D. Barker.

305. TWC Wed Mar. 7, 1883: Desirable Building Lots for $300 apiece. Inquire at Mr. Mason Potter’s on Maple Avenue for. F.C. Byers.

306. TWC Wed Mar. 7, 1883: Twenty Years. Twenty years this spring I commenced to Repair Furniture. I continue to try to please everybody by Upholstering, Gluing, Staining and Varnishing Sitting Room, Parlor and Office Furniture, Cane Seating etc. Call on or address by letter or postal card. S.W. Moseley, Box 360 Willimantic, Conn.

307. TWC Wed Mar. 7, 1883: At a Court of Probate holden at Windham, within and for the district of Windham on the 6th day of March, A.D. 1883. Present, John D. Wheeler, Esq. Judge. On motion of Luke Flynn, Administrator on the intestate estate of Mary Sullivan, 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 the said administrator, and directs that public notice be given of this order by advertising in a newspaper published in Windham, and by posting a copy thereof on a public signpost in said town of Windham nearest the place where the deceased last dwelt. Certified from Record, John D. Wheeler, Judge.

308. TWC Wed Mar. 7, 1883: At a Court of Probate holden at Windham within and for the district of Windham on the 5th day of March, A.D. 1883. Present, John D. Wheeler, Esq., Judge. On motion of Henry N. Wales, Administrator on the intestate estate of Warren Tanner 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 the said 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 sign-post in said town of Windham nearest the place where the deceased last dwelt. Certified from Record, John D. Wheeler, Judge.

309. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: About Town.
O.S. Chaffee & Son have just completed a fine dwelling house at their mills in Chaffeeville.
Preaching service at the Congregational church was omitted last Sunday evening because of Mr. Free’s indisposition.
An invitation is extended by Warden Harrington for proposals to furnish teams to work on the streets the coming season.
J.A. Edmonds will sell at auction on his farm in Chaplin on Thursday, Mar. 22d, a lot of live stock and farming implements.
Marshall Tilden adorns the front of his store with a large sign announcing the fact of his selling a first-class chamber set for $16.
Good singing is a feature in a religious service that adds as much interest to the exercises as good preaching. A hint to our churches.
The milkmen, who surely ought to be the best judges, say that last Friday was the coldest morning this winter. Mercury registered nine below.
Rev. Mr. Johnson of Putnam conducted the Episcopal services at Dunham hall Sunday in the absence of Rev. Mr. Wells who was on a trip west.
Dennis F. McCarthy will lecture in New London next Sunday evening before a branch of the Catholic Total Abstinance Union, of which he is president.
D.H. Clark’s stable was tested to its full capacity (which is great) to furnish conveyances for the two funerals Sunday –Mr. Babcock’s and Mr. Gifford’s.
An excavation front of the post office Monday revealed frost to the depth of three feet. It is thought the ground generally is frozen to an unusual depth.
Governor Waller announces Friday the 23rd as Fast Day in this state in the shortest proclamation on record, which receive much favorable comment from the press.
Rev. H.D. Robinson, presiding elder of this district, will preach in the Methodist church next Sunday afternoon. Last Sunday Rev. S. McBurney exchanged pulpits with Rev. James Treaskis of Putnam.

310. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: John Haggerty, for the past eight years a scout in the employ of the government in the far west, at present stationed at Fort Custer, Montana, is on a furlough visiting his parents, who reside in the new village. He returns to duty April first.

311. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: A New London correspondent sends the following to the New London Day, which we do not believe is true. “A man prominently connected with the Willimantic Linen mills was recently in town, and was interviewed by The Day’s hired man, about the way the students conducted their ‘mash’ with the mill girls. A look of disgust passed over his face as he said: ‘I never saw such bad taste. They passed right over the prettiest girls for regular old hay bags.’”

312. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: The Danielsonville Transcript says:--“Mr. B.W. Taft removed this week to his old home, Willimantic. Mr. Taft and family resided in our village for three years, and during that time have made many friends, who regret their departure from our midst.

313. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: Daniel Courtney has bought an interest in the market and grocery firm of Foran & Shea. The firm have leased the store adjoining their market in Melony block recently occupied by O.D. Brown and have placed therein a large and choice stock. They will doubtless, being young men anxious to succeed, do a successful business.

314. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: The Windham county republican members in the Legislature held a caucus Wednesday with Representative Fowler of Windham in the chair. On an informal ballot for county commissioner. Mr. Converse of Thompson, the present incumbent, and Mr. E.H. Jacobs of Killingly, had 10 votes each. On the formal ballot, Mr. Converse was renominated.

315. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: A stranger named Patrick Grady in a drunken condition fell against a window in the European house Monday and refused to pay for the damage. Complaint was made to Officer Flynn who brought him before Justice Sumner where a fine of $2 and cost were imposed. He appealed from this decision and will await in the Brooklyn refrigerator judgement from the superior court at the May term.

316. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: The extension of Bellivue street is one of the things which is necessary the coming summer to accommodate the sale of building lots in that section of the village. It is really remarkable the rapidity with which buildings are going up in that locality and indicates the direction in which the future growth of this village is cast. It is surely one of the most healthful localities and the class of residences which are going up makes it one of the best neighborhoods. The popular choice seems to be to dwell on Prospect hill and it behooves the borough to open the streets there as fast as required.

317. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: Quite a thrifty industry and one which promises to be an important factor in the business of this village, is the iron foundry located on the western outskirt. This is a good illustration of how one management can make an undertaking successful while another will make a signnl [sic] failure of the same thing. Mr. Wm. Gorry not long since obtained these works, which had collapsed, and his business from the start has increased rapidly until at the present time he employs fifteen men. He has added largely to the works in the way of out buildings and other expensive improvements. Out of such industries as these the larger ones grow, and by encouraging and helping them along the citizens of a village are helping themselves. Mr. Gorry possessions are looming up out at the “watering trough.”

318. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: A mystery for our civil authorities to solve. Saturday morning Mr. H.H. Fitch found the body of a male infant concealed behind a wall in a lot at the rear of his house near the almshouse. The body was wrapped in paper when discovered and a large stone from the wall covered it in a hole pressing its forehead to the ground considerably disfiguring its face. In the judgement of the physician who was called to examine it, it was alive when born. Mr. Fitch had occasion to go out in that direction Saturday morning and footprints in the snow leading over the wall drew his attention, from curiosity to see whither they went, and hence the discovery. Evidently the child had been deposited there Thursday night as the prints in the snow had the appearance of having borne the sun’s rays and it was frozen through. The footprints were traced from the railroad to the place of finding and thence in a circuitous route in the direction of the foundry, and were lost on Mansfield avenue. The incident is a blot on the morals of this community and strenuous efforts to discover the guilty parties should be made, and especially so, as this is the second occurrence of supposed infanticide within a short period. Justice Melony impanelled a jury of inquest and all the evidence obtainable was submitted at the investigation Monday. The selectmen will offer $100 reward for evidence which will lead to the detection of the culprits.

319. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: The Fair.—The Willimantic Agricultural and Industrial Association project comes on apace, and may be said to be in a fair way to be consummated. A meeting of those interested in the project was held in Exelsior hall last Saturday evening numbering about fifty persons from this and surrounding towns. E.E. Burnham was called to the chair to conduct the meeting until a temporary organization was formed, which was soon done by the choice of E.S. Boss president, D.H. Clark and J.D. Jillson vice-presidents, and C.J. Fox secretary and treasurer. Discussion as to how the association should proceed to perfect some plan was held and finally decided to organize under the joint stock laws of the state. It has since been thought by some that a more satisfactory method would be to obtain from the General Assembly a special act as this would obviate many troublesome formalities and an amount of red tape necessary under the joint stock laws. By prompt action a bill could be passed through the present legislature. It was decided at the meeting that the most expeditious course to pursue to effect the desired result was to circulate subscription papers, and after fixing the stock at $25 a share this was ordered done and a committee was appointed for the purpose. That committee is Dr. C.J. Fox, Isaac Sanderson, J.A. Stearns, M.E. Lincoln and D. Potter and the members were requested to obtain all the subscribers for stock possible up to the amount of $10,000. The meeting was adjourned until Monday evening at the same place. The papers are being industriously circulated and a large number of signatures have already been obtained. All who wish stock in the enterprise have but to see one of the committee and sign their name to the official document.

320. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: Mrs. Heap has given a lot on Walnut street 70x110 feet to the Episcopalians for the erection of a church. It was expected at the time subscriptions were solicited, to conform to Mrs. Heap’s condition that a thousand dollars should be raised in town towards building a church, that the whole lot owned by her at the corner of Valley and Walnut streets would be given, but it seems if such ever was the intention of Mrs. Heap it was afterwards changed for some reason, or through some influence unknown to outsiders. The gift will prove of advantage to the society and we understand a church will be put up on the lot during the coming summer.

321. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: Mansfield Centre.
The fellowship meeting which convened here on Wednesday the seventh was thin in attendance owing, in part, perhaps, to the blustering weather. As a free collation had been advertised, the ladies of the Centre with their usual promptness and magnanimity, provided a bountiful repast in the conference room, for the benefit on the inner man, and those present (provided they were not troubled with dyspepsia) enjoyed a feast of fat things. A sermon from the Rev. Mr. Jenkins of South Coventry was in order in the forenoon, in the afternoon a discussion followed on the early conversion of children, their places in church, etc. During the afternoon discussion the Rev. Kiah B. Glidden is reported to have openly avowed his disbelief in infant damnation.

322. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: Mansfield.
The Hanks brothers are preparing to build a new silk mill on the site of the one lately destroyed by fire.
The former mill stood end to the street two stories high with wing, painted white and was one of the prettiest mills, inside and out, often seen. The new mill will be the same height and several feet longer than the old one making ample room for the engine and boiler which they have to use in a dry time without the addition of a wing to the new building. The mill will face the street which will be an improvement on the old one making more room between the mill and the street. A greater part of the old foundation can be utilized without alteration being but little damaged by the fire. Work will be commenced as soon as the weather will permit.
As J.W. Knowlton was driving from Gurleyville to Ashford last week his horse became frightened at some feed baskets swinging from a team wagon and ran up a steep snow bank and Mr. K. was spilled in the beautiful snow, but he hung to the reins and the horse was stopped immediately. Mr. K. is rather small in his build but it takes a horse to draw him for a Snow Devil.
As Clark Wright of Ashford was drawing wood from the Knowlton reservoir his dog was attracted to a hollow stub in the pond. Mr. Wright struck the stub with an axe and out rolled a coon. The dog grappled and it was nip and tuck for a few moments, but the dog came out ahead. We suppose the Dr.’s purp [sic] would have made a small job of it.
John Wing Yeomans is very low and we learn that the doctors give no encouragement to his friends.
Miss Sadie Millard of Merrow Station has been engaged to teach the Worm Wood Hill school this summer. She commences the first Monday in April.
Ice is so thick and universal that farmers prophesy that the grass is all killed under it.

323. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: Andover.
The Ladies society gave a sociable last Thursday evening at the house of S.D. Post. Though the weather was very cold the company was very large and the occasion was one of the most enjoyed of the season. Mrs. Post’s guests were much attracted by the fine display of flowers. Among the most noticeable of which were four beautiful and splendidly perfect calla lillies growing in one pot.
The Rev. J.A. Mack of Gilead occupied the pulpit of the Congregational church last Sabbath and the sacrament of the Lord’s supper was administered in the afternoon, when Miss Etta Bishop and Miss Nellie A. Daggett were received into the church.
Mr. Henry Jacobs will move to South Windsor April 1st, where he has engaged to work at farming for a year.
Last Wednesday Noble E. Lord, Jr. of Gilead drove to Andover and left his horse standing near the railroad station. A freight train coming in from the west soon after frightened the horse and he started off at full speed down the railroad track towards Willimantic but soon met the 5 p.m. passenger train for Hartford. Both horse and sleigh were caught on the front of the locomotive and carried along for some distance and were finally thrown down the high embankment near the house of Mrs. C.A. Hutchinson. The horse was killed but the sleigh was not much damaged.
A piece of casting weighing about two tons rolled off from a morning freight train just west of this station a few days ago. It fortunately done no damage to either train or track.
Some of our farmers are thinking of starting a creamery and cheese factory. It is said that those which have been established in other parts of the state have proved quite profitable; at any rate they must relieve farmers wives from a great deal of hard work.
Mr. Thos. E. Porter has recently presented our library 42 more books, nearly all of them being practical works. Our library now contains most of the best poetry in the English language.
Mr. Hine Secretary of the state board of Education who recently visited our schools thinks it would be much better if we would unite our school districts and maintain one good school at the Centre.

324. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: Ashford.
John Avery son of Christopher Avery while examining a pistol was accidentally shot through the leg. Dr. J.H. Simmons extracted the ball and he is now getting along very well.
Thomas Curtis was accidentally thrown from his sleigh by his horse becoming frightened and considerably injured about the head, although not seriously. A few days later a similar accident occurred to the same party although without any serious result.
William Holdridge a former resident of Ashford who died of pneumonia last fall has just been granted a pension and his widow who resides in Willimantic is taking the necessary steps to recover it. The pension was granted for the period of years and ceased in 1875 on account of disability ceasing at the time as claimed by the government but his disability did not cease at that time in fact but continued and increased to the time of death. If he could have had this money to have used in his lifetime it would have done him a great deal of good in his enfeebled condition, but he was unjustly kept from drawing what was justly his due, by neglect on the part of the government officials.
George W. Simons a soldier in the Union army has a piece of the “hard tack” in a good state of preservation that was issued as rations to the soldiers on the ever-memorable morning of April 3rd 1865 when the “On to Richmond” order was given and the soldiers all along the line took up the march and entered the capital city of the Confederate States of America. No doubt this piece of government bread will be kept and handed down to future generations to show what delicate fare was furnished to the supporters of the government during the late war.
The friends of Rev. James B. Connell who has discharged his pastorial duties so acceptably to the church in Westford will present him with a splendid watch as a testimonial of their friendship and esteem for him. Many regrets are expressed at his leaving this, the first field of labor, where he has gained so many personal friends.

325. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: Columbia.
The Ladies Benevolent Society advertise to give a “mum supper” sometime in the future. It will be in pleasing contrast to most suppers given by the ladies, but we fear when the tea begins to work, the trouble will begin. Guests will enter by the back way, take their seats at the table, make no response if spoken to, eat their fill and pass out. Mum’s the word you know.
A report was circulated last week that Mr. Charles Strickland and Miss Elise Whitcomb had knelt at the hymenical altar. Accordingly, a delegation of female friends and neighbors made the bride a call, and surprised her with a number of valuable presents enough for present emergencies. There was tin ware, wooden ware, dusters and last but not least a nursing bottle with all of its various amendments necessary to entice the lacteal fluid from its hidden recess. After a hearty laugh had been indulged in they were informed that the trouble was rather premature, but she tendered her thanks just the same.

326. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: The good people of Eastern Connecticut were greatly exercised a few evenings ago by sudden and startling rumblings and roarings in the air and a lively agitation among houses and furniture, which caused immense alarm, especially to those with a weak spot in their consciences or heavy investments in real estate. Everybody recognized at once a severe shock of earthquaking, and telegraphed it to the Associated Press without delay. Cool-headed men of science, however, tell us that it was not an earthquake at all, but that a meteor (one of unusual brilliancy was observed at the same time as the fear-compelling phenomena, it is now remembered by the citizens of Colchester and Glastonbury) took a shy at the earth, and if it didn’t hit it, made a close miss. Several cases are fully recorded when meteoric stones have fallen, and they have always been attended with terrific noises, bursts of light and shaking of the earth. Iowa has experienced one or two remarkable examples of these aerial visitations, after which several hundred weight of meteoric iron has been picked up; and it is prophesized that similar “finds” will be made by Norwich farmers in ploughing this spring. It is the opinion, by the way, of Professor H.A. Newton, of Yale, who is an authority in this branch of science that meteors are fragments of comets broken off from those celestial Bohemians, and are flying uncontrolled through space. Entering our atmosphere, they take fire, and if they come close enough are attracted so as to alight upon the earth.

327. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: Lebanon.
The widow Carpenter’s farm (formerly Simon Newcomb place) has recently been sold to the Rev. Mr. Parmalee the resident minister in Exeter society.
The dance at Cumming’s hall (Liberty Hill) on Thursday night is said to have been the best of the season. The music furnished by Wilson and Shafer of Willimantic was much enjoyed and dancing was kept up until dawn.
The unusually good sledding of last week was improved by many in hauling logs to the ill and getting their yearly supply of wood. Some very fine working oxen were noticed at Sweet and Bill’s steam mill on Friday; notably two pairs from the farm of Jeremiah Mason.
The interest in half pound surprise parties is still unflagging. The last victim was Peter Jordan. Raiders of both sexes to the number of one hundred took possession of the family mansion on Friday evening, and with music, dancing and old-fashioned osculatory plays made things lively until a late hour.

328. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: Married.
Keyon-Hacking—In Willimantic, Mar. 9th, by Rev. S. McBurney, Mr. William Kenyon and Miss E. Hacking both of this place.

329. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: Born.
Lombard—In Willimantic, March 7th, a daughter to D.O. and Maria Lombard.

330. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: Died.
Sullivan—In Willimantic, March 8th, Mary Sullivan aged 10 years.
Gifford—In Willimantic, March [10th], Chas. Gifford, aged 41. Years.
Babcock—In Willimantic, March 7th, Courtland Babcock, aged 72 years.
Malliken—In Mansfield, March 13th, Cordella Malliken, aged 40 years.
Platt—In Ashford, March 8th, Charles Platt aged 68 years.

331. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: For Sale.—In North Windham a small and desirable place consisting of house and barn and two acres of land for sale to clear an estate. Also eight acres of good pasture land, sold with the place or separate, as desired. Known as the Albert Backus place. For particulars apply to C.T. Barstow South Windham Conn.

332. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: At a Court of Probate Holden at Bolton within and for the district of Andover on the 26th day of February A.D. 1883. President F.E. Williams, Esq. Judge. On motion of Melinda M. Greene Executrix on the estate of Jeffrey S. Lewis late of Colchester 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 the said Executrix 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 a public sign-post in said Town of Columbia nearest the place where the deceased last dwelt.

333. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: Abington.
There are in this place within three-fourths of a mile three churches and on Sundays five services and three Sabbath schools are held at these churches. Last Sunday at the Advent chapel the pastor, Elder Johnson, supplied the pulpit, at the Congregational church was filled by the Rev. Mr. Goldsmith of Hampton, at the chapel of the Episcopal Mission Rev. Mr. Burgess officiated.
Mr. Allen’s children, which have been suffering from scarlet fever have recovered.
Mr. Lamphere’s son is home from Hartford as he is also recovering from the effects of scarlet fever.
We are informed of a novel way of exterminating rats to write a very polite note requesting them to go to some neighbors, designating the neighbor by name then saturate the note with grease, and place it where the rats frequent and then they will leave.
Willis Pike has a cane which is a curiosity, it represents two snakes entwining a stick and was made from walnut wood cut at the wolf den, this entire work was done with a pocket-knife and is as smooth as glass.
The fourteenth of March will be the ninetieth anniversary of Abington library and at that time an entertainment will be given consisting of addresses and music. We doubt if there are many older libraries in the county.
The accidental discharge of a pistol at W. Brayton’s shop wounded a dog.

334. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: South Windham.
The school exhibition I mentioned last week will be given on Tuesday evening March 20 instead of Friday evening as I said last week. The change of date was necessitated by the great amount of work which will have to be done to put the hall in proper condition, and as school closes this week Mr. Sanger decided to put it off and thereby gain time for preparations. A new stage will have to be built and new curtains provided, and in order to meet the expenses, an admission fee of 10 cents will be charged.
L.B. Ladd is learning the telegraph business at the office here.
J.R. Abbe is very ill with pneumonia and at this writing grave doubts are entertained of his recovery.

335. TWC Wed Mar. 14, 1883: Columbia.
The relatives of Mrs. Dr. C.N. Gallup gave her a surprise on Friday evening.
On Sunday night Geo. W. Maine lost eleven pigs out of a litter of fifteen owing to the severity of the weather.
Howard W. Yeomans is spending his vacation with his aunt in Brooklyn, N.Y.
The family of H.E. Lyman contemplate moving to Woonsocket, R.I., during this month, Mr. L. Remaining for a few weeks to attend to some matters pertaining to his farm.
Miss Rogers a pupil at Mt. Holyoke will visit her friends in town this week. She is the daughter of Rev. Lewis Rogers of Albion N.Y.
The father of Rev. F.D. Avery of this place died in Belvidere Ill, at the advanced age of 87 years.
Simon Hunt has sold a tract of timber land to Sanford and will clear it before moving his mill to the premises of H.B. Little.
N.R. Holbrook is collecting the library subscriptions.
Mrs. Caroline Armstrong who is spending the winter with her nephew on Liberty Hill, is reported dangerously ill at the former place.
S.S. Collins has sued the town for what he claims to be the payment of illegal taxes.
Rufus Collins is suffering from a gangrene sore on his foot and at his advanced age fears are entertained regarding his recovery.
Geo. Taylor has cleared the wood lot recently purchased of Carpenter and the saw mill is moved to Colchester: timber land seems to be fast disappearing in this section and still there is considerable more to follow.
On Saturday N.P. Little sent another bill of lumber to the Old Colony R.R. He keeps a number of teams employed hauling wood for the town farm in Hartford and altogether keeps business lively in that direction.
L.J. Robertson owing to his early training and good judgement makes an excellent financier as is illustrated by his apple trade with all the farmers this season.
The population of this town was increased last week by the birth of a fine daughter to Mrs. F. Woodward and a 13 ½ lb boy to a lady boarding on West street, but the latter child only survived three days as reported. The mother came here a few months since going by the name of Mrs. Sullivan from Troy, N.Y. There are many who consider a mystery attached to the case.
Two foxes were observed leisurely going across the fields just east of the S.S. Collins last week as if there was no fox-hunters on Columbia Green.

336. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: About Town.
Next is Easter Sunday.
Next Friday is Fast Day. No religious service this year.
J.C. Lincoln’s furniture store is connected by telephone.
The $100 reward as yet brings no clue to the mystery of the infanticide.
Edward Harris is able to be about after a confinement of three weeks with fever.
Quartermaster McManus was in town yesterday and inspected the armories and militia equipments.
J.D. Bentley has bought for $4500 the house and lot corner of North and Spring streets of D.R. Tucker.
The spirited bay and gray span of horses driven by Mr. D.E. Potter is among the finest and handsomest in this county.
The Linen company’s fireman and engineers are to be uniformed in suits similar to those worn by railroad men.
The Willimantic Savings Institute has declared its customary semi-annual dividend at the rate of four per cent a year.
Rev. S. McBurney will preach at the Methodist church next Sunday at 2 o’clock on the subject “Are monkeys our ancestors?”
W.H. Cranston has bought from the Willard Fuller heirs, through their agent Geo. B. Abbott, two houses on Winter street.
Rev. S.R. Free preached his sermon from “The Root of all Evil” Sunday evening to one of the largest congregations ever in the church.
Governor Waller was in town Thursday having been belated in catching a train by the railroad smash-up. He improved the leisure time in inspecting the thread mills.

337. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: W.S. Purington, a resident of this village, is considered the best builder in Hartford. He has charge of one of the finest business blocks in that city, now being erected.

338. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: At the fifty-sixth annual conclave of the Grand Commandery Knight Templars held in Bridgeport yesterday Chester Tilden of this village was elected one of the officers.

339. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: The entire stock of dry and fancy goods belonging to A.S. Turner at 15 Church street will be sold at public auction every afternoon and evening beginning to-morrow afternoon.

340. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: Express Agent Bassett has so far recovered from his severe attack of pneumonia as to be about the house at Hotel Commercial and will soon be able to take charge of his office again.

341. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: The remainder of the assigned millinery stock of Annie W. Hall were sold at auction in Cranston block last evening in the store to be occupied by Mrs. Vera A. Bartlett in the millinery business about April first.

342. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: At the temperance meeting which was addressed by Dennis F. McCarthy at New London Sunday evening the pledge of total abstinence was administered to twenty-nine persons by Rev. T.W. Broderick, formerly of this place.

343. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: The Willimantic Lumber company projected about a year ago to do business in Tennessee, fell through, but its projector, C.H. Barrows, had faith enough in the project to locate in the specified regions. He returned home last week.

344. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: H.H. Flint, druggist, has just received a very fine assortment of choice flower seeds, of the best seedsmen and calls the attention of the owners of green houses, and conservatories to the fact. He has also catalogues of bulbs, plants, rose cuttings, etc.

345. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: Rev. S. R. Free and J.W. Webb exhibited one of the handsomest string of pickerel that fishermen have brought into the village lately as the result of a days sport on the Columbia lake Monday. Three of them tipped the scales at four pounds apiece.

346. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: J.H. Maxwell, who has been in the employ of Geo. M. Harrington for about five years, has bought an interest in the dry goods firm of J.E. Murray. He will carry with him the good will of a large circle of friends. P.A. Riley retires from the concern on account of ill health.

347. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: Here is genuine enterprise for you. D.C. Barrows has made telegraph connection directly with Boston by a wire running into his jewelry store. By this means he receives the time daily at 4 o’clock directly from the headquarters of calculations for Boston meridian which is correct to a second.

348. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: Dennis Lines while drunk was making disturbance on upper Main street Saturday evening and officer Brown attempted to quiet him. He objected to being meddled with and jumping over the stone near the Stone Row defied the officer, who, however followed him and took him into custody. While on the way to the lock-up four of Lines’ associates grappled with the policeman and liberated his prisoner. He applied his club to the heads of two of them, who immediately took to their heels, but he captured John Shea and deposited him in the cooler. Monday, Shea was brought before Justice Arnold and a fine of $3 and costs were demanded and paid. The same day Michael Leary was arrested for participating in the affray and before the same court received a fine of $7 and costs which he appealed.

349. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: Killed by the Cars.—Thomas Letterick was found dead lying stretched at full length on his back between the railroad crossings of Milk and Union street Saturday night. He was first discovered by the fireman on an in-coming freight train at about 9:40 p.m. which was running slowly. The fireman notified Officers Flynn and Roberts, who were standing at the corner of Union and Jackson streets that there was a man on the track and they immediately went to him. When raised him from the ground he was quite warm and they supposed he was only unconscious, the only injury which was apparent being a severe cut across the forehead and another on the side of his nose. He was taken to his home on Carey Hill and one of the policemen summoned Dr. McNally who pronounced him dead on sight. An examination was made and the injuries found were severe cuts about the face as stated, three ribs broken and left arm fractured in two places. The next day (Sunday) Justice Melony impaneled a jury of inquest to sit on the body and a verdict was rendered that the deceased came to his death by being struck by the cars. He was on his way home when the fatal accident occurred. He was 49 years of age and leaves a very respectable family of grown up children. The funeral took place from his home Monday at 2 o’clock, Rev. L.H. Wells officiating, and was largely attended.

350. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: Accident on the New England Road.—Nine cars of a freight train eastward bound on the New England road were derailed and four of them thoroughly demolished, near Robert Brown'’ residence, Thursday about 3 o’clock, the accident being caused by the breaking of an axle on one of them. For about ten rods the rails were spread to nearly double their proper width and the sleepers were ground to splinters. Two coal cars and two box cars containing in one general merchandise and in the other oats were thrown together, a great pile of debris. Besides ruining considerable property the accident probably cost one man his life. Robert Ingliss, a Scotchman who had arrived in this country but about ten days previous, was stealing a ride to Boston and was standing on a narrow platform on one of the cars. He was caught right in the thickest of the smashup and had one leg crushed below the knee and the other badly broken below that joint. He was brought to this station on a stretcher and here placed in a hack and driven to the almshouse. Supt. Lyman was telephoned by town authority not to admit him and he was brought back to the station, a telegram having been received in the meantime giving instructions to send him to Hartford. He was compelled to wait in the depot for the seven o’clock passenger train and when that arrived the conductor refused to take him on board without special orders. He was then taken to Dr. Hill’s office where he remained over night and in the morning was taken to Hartford and committed to the city hospital. Friday afternoon one leg was amputated and at last accounts his prospects for life were dubious. He has a wife and family in Glasgow and he appeared to be quite an intelligent and respectable person.

351. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: Death of Rev. Arnold Van Wersch.—No event which has occurred in recent years has cast so overshadowing a gloom over the Catholic portion of this community as the death of Rev. Arnold Van Wersch, which occurred at the rectory of St. Joseph’s parish last Sunday at 11 o’clock. Nor is the feeling of sadness confined wholly within that denomination, for the deceased clergyman had gained many friends by his pious actions from among the people of other beliefs. His death was as unexpected as it was surprising to his parishioners, but few knowing at the time of his demise that he was even sick. The immediate cause was a severe attack of typhoid pneumonia which set in last Friday. He was compelled to take his bed by typhoid fever one week ago last Sunday although he had been considerably indisposed for a fortnight previous to that time, but would not give way to his feelings. The disease was contracted, in all probability, while on missions of many to the sick. He had for a number of weeks been attending persons afflicted with typhoid fever around the vicinity of Jackson street and to his faithful ministrations to them as attributed the direct cause of his death. While service was in progress at the Catholic church Sunday forenoon the sad intelligence was announced to the congregation by Father DeBruycker, and the vast assemblage as one man burst into tears, so much had the dead priest entwined himself into the affections of that people. Father Arnold, as he was familiarly known, was personally really one of the salt of the earth. His always polite, modest and charitable actions had gained for him universal respect throughout this entire community and he always seemed to be carrying out in his every day walks a character which was thoroughly pious. He had without effort endeared himself in a remarkable degree to the people under his charge. Father Arnold Van Wersch was born in Simpleveld, a small county village in Holland, on Sept. 18th 1852 and was therefore 30 years of age. His parents followed the pursuit of agriculture. He was one of a large family of children, another of whom is an eminent priest in that country. His education was liberal and he had profited greatly by it in his standing among his brother clergymen. He first graduated from the Rolduc literary college in Holland and afterwards took the entire course in the theological seminary in Roermond in the same country. In both of these institutions he carried off the highest honors among a class of eighty-five members. He then entered the world-famed Catholic university of Louvain in Belgium, but before he had finished the course he consented to forego the privilege of becoming a D.D. to supply a demand for more priests. He intended at a latter period to complete that course. He was ordained in 1876. Five years ago he was assigned curate in St. Joseph’s parish in this place and has remained here ever since. He had gained the respect and love of his pastor, Rev. Fl. DeBruycker, who had a high opinion of his abilities and does not hesitate to say that in matters of dogma where he himself was in doubt he would often consult his assistant always with perfect success. The position was conceded to him by the entire clergy of this diocese of the leading exponent of theology, notwithstanding the fact that he was only a curate. The funeral ceremonies commenced at 10:30 o’clock and continued until nearly 2 o’clock in the afternoon. The people began to gather at an early hour and long before the service began there was not room inside and hundreds were turned away from the door. It is estimated that the attendance was about 2,000. The church was festooned with flowers and the sanctuary bore appropriate mottoes for the occasion and was heavily draped with crape. Near the railing to the altar the remains were placed Sunday night at 9 o’clock and at no period since that time had there been less than a hundred mourners present in the church. They were laid by Undertaker Casey in a hard wood casket with raised top, covered with broadcloth and velvet and mounted with elegant silver trimmings. On the cover lay two plates, one giving the name and age, the other the places of nativity and death, and also lavish floral tributes. The order of exercises were as follows: Commencing by chanting the office of the dead, at the first nocturn, Laudes, (solemn chanting); High mass, celebrant, Rev. Fl. DeBruycker; deacon, Rev. A. Van Oppen, Meriden; sub-deacon, Rev. J. VanDeNoort, Baltic; assist. Priest, Rev. E. Vygen, Putnam: Chanters with cope: Rev. J. Campbell, South Manchester; Rev. T. Ariens, Dayville; Master of ceremonies, Rev. T.W. Brockerick, new London; assistant at shrine, Rev. J. Princen, Danielsonville. The oration in French was delivered by Rev. T. Arien of Dayville. This was followed by a panegyric in English by Rev. Peter DeRoo, of Baker City, Oregon. Bishop McMahon then pronounced the last rites over the body and the cortege was formed as follows: Bearers: Revs. Shahan, Desmond, McKeone, Fones, Sheridan, Dougherty, Cooney, Thompson; friends, (men appointed); Knights of the Sacred Heart: a colyte clergy; corpse and celebrants; Children of Mary; friends (members of congregation). The remains were placed in a brick vault in the church yard at the south west corner of the church. The spot will probably be marked by a monument to his memory at a future day. Forty priests took part in the funeral ceremonies.

352. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: Ashford.
The friends and neighbors to the number of about thirty met at the house of Jared Wentworth on Friday last to celebrate his 80th birthday. The ladies prepared a bountiful repast and everything went “merry as a marriage bell.” Uncle Jared was found in his happiest mood, and enjoying excellent health and likely to remain another decade.
Charles A. Lee has sold out his team and will retire from the business.
The “Ladies Circle” will meet on Wednesday with Mrs. Rouse Potter, where all are invited to attend, both ladies and gentlemen. Mrs. Potter will furnish refreshments for all, and everybody knows that she can do that thing in the best of style.

353. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883:Westford.
A company numbering over eighty, gathered in the parsonage on Wednesday evening the 14th inst. for the purpose of giving a farewell reception to the highly esteemed pastor of the church, Rev. J.B. Connell. Several tables were spread, ladened with good things provided by willing hands for the inner man, while in the center, was a beautiful bouquet composed of calla lilies and geraniums, the gift of Mrs. A. Kinney, whose floral collections are very much admired. Addresses were delivered by Rev. Mr. Bissell and Rev. C.N. Nichols, both of whom congratulated Mr. Connell upon the successful work performed by him during his ministry in this place. He has been an earnest, faithful preacher and pastor. A handsome Hampden watch was presented him in a neat speech made by Mr. Harvey W. Morey. Mrs. Connell also received two beautiful albums bed quilts bearing the names of every member of the congregation. Mr. Connell happily responded to these valued gifts. Music, both vocal and instrumental, enlivened the occasion. Next Sabbath, March 25, Mr. Connell closes his labors in this place, and he will be followed to his new field at Greenville, with the best wishes of a host of friends for his future success.

354. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: Mansfield Centre.
We understand with regret that Mr. Safford of the Chronicle is prostrated with the mumps. He has the generous sympathy of a host of friends who will rejoice to see his noble countenance, and manly form again at his accustomed duties.

355. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: Columbia.
William P. Robertson and Wilton Little spent the Sabbath at their respective homes in town.
On Tuesday of last week Saxton B. Little of Meriden made a formal presentation of $1,000 for the benefit of the Columbia free library and offered a spot on the parsonage grounds, of which he and his brother are the principal owners, near the old cemetery for the erection of a library building, and since his return knowing of the struggle for collecting funds necessary to erect said building he has written to the collector that he will defray one eighth of expense incurred for that purpose and it now looks as if the building might be secured. He has also donated to the library 86 new books also 126 of his own library manifesting a spirit of generosity and thoughtfulness for the people of his native town that is duly appreciated.
Miss Lida Hutchins assistant principal in the Rockville high school and Miss Clara Sawyer a teacher in another department in the same building together with Miss Lucy Sawyer teacher in Ellington are with their friends during the three weeks vacation.
The mumps originating with some of the scholars in the Centre school are quite prevalent and whether there will be enough to go around remains to be seen.
Miss Jennie Fuller is hired to teach in Hop River district and Miss Porter of Hebron in the centre.
Mrs. Elizabeth Utley has been seriously ill with erysipelas but is reported convalescent
The ladies society gave a mum supper at Bascom’s hall and the net proceeds were not far from $30. After the seats at the first table were filled the rules were read by Edward P. Lyman and very soon Mrs. S.B. West made her appearance acting as chaperon to six young ladies grotesquely attired in costumes of days gone by and all endeavored to the utmost to provoke smiles or answers to questions proposed so as to realize profits from the forfeits which were imposed upon those responding in words or smiles. The ludicrousness of the situation was too much for the gravity of some but there were quite a number who could hold their tongues and keep a straight face on them, but in one instance where they had brought their powers to bear on one young man and found he didn’t yield a lady transferred her cap to the head of the minister and the young man succumbed seeing the Rev. in a large, frilled white cap.
The board of school visitors appointed James L. Downer committee in Pine street district in place of Edward Clark who had moved out of the district. Miss Lilian I. Fuller will teach on Chestnut Hill.
Albert Edgarton who owns a farm at Hop River but has been engaged in the milk business in Hartford for a few years is intending to occupy his premises this year.
Last Thursday on the turnpike near town the horse of Jonathan Tucker broke through the frost so that it was unable to extricate itself and timely assistance in rescuing prevented an accident.

356. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: A Monument to Nathan Hale. Says the Hartford Courant: “It belongs to Connecticut, and to Connecticut especially, to perform a piece of historical justice that has been unaccountably neglected. It is a little short of disgraceful, that we have let the centennial year, which so revived the memory of the patriotism of our revolutionary heroes, pass without erecting a monument to Nathan Hale. He was born at Coventry in 1755. In 1773 he graduated at Yale college, and in 1775 he was captain in the Continental army, in which he soon distinguished himself by bravery and intelligence. The story of the premature death of this accomplished and promising officer, a death attended with marks of ignominy, but made glorious by his bearing and the object of his self-sacrifice, is one of the sacred things in our annals. His last words, ‘I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country’ have become one of the most famous of heroic sayings, and yet while reams of sentiment have been spent upon the fate of Major Andre, a British spy, who was dealing with an American traitor to betray a vital post to the enemy, and even a monument was erected to perpetuate the memory of his deserved hanging, on the spot where he was executed, there nowhere exists any proper recognition of the noble self-sacrifice of one of the finest youths of our revolutionary time. We understand that there is a petition to be considered by the legislative committee to erect a statue to Nathan Hale. There should not be a moment’s hesitation about it. The case needs no argument, least of all to Connecticut men, who are proud of the part their fathers took in our struggle for independence. In time our stately capitol will be adorned with the figures of those Connecticut likes to honor, will become, in fact, a sort of a state pantheon a noble record of our great men. It will be to our own reproach if the figure of Nathan Hale is not speedily placed there.”

357. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: South Coventry.
A.T. Cornwall of Granby will present the subject “creameries” to our farmers Thursday evening, March 22d.
Cullen Potter, who recently made an assignment for the benefit of his creditors, was recently surprised by gifts to the amount of over $80 by the people of this place in token of their sympathy for his faithful services.
A new firm is soon to commence business in the silk mill of D.W. Huntington.
A business change is reported at the store recently owned by W.A. Loomis. The changes of owners of this stock of merchandise have been frequent within the preceding fifteen years.

358. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: Born.
Burke—In Willimantic, March 19, a son to Thomas and Mary Burke.
Kelley—In Willimantic. March 15, a son to Thomas J. and Nellie Kelley.

359. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: Died.
Phillips—In Willimantic, March 21, Ann W. Phillips, aged 82 years.
Herrick—In Windham, March 21, Ida E. Herrick, aged 22 years.
Wheaton—In Phoenixville, March 16, Blanchie Mary Wheaton, aged 2 yrs and 15 days.
Van Wersch—In Willimantic, March 18, Rev. Arnold Van Wersch, aged 30 years.
Letterick—In Willimantic, March 17 Thomas Letterick, aged 49 years.

360. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: $100 Reward. A reward of $100 will be paid for evidence leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons who abandoned the child found dead on the premises of Harden H. Fitch, in Willimantic on Saturday March 10, 1883. W.B. Avery, Henry Larrabee, M.E. Lincoln, Selectmen. Windham, March 13th, 1883.

361. TWC Wed Mar. 21, 1883: For Sale.—One new two horse Team wagon with Spring seat, one new Concord Buggy, one new Side Spring Buggy, one Side Spring Business wagon, one new Hand Carts, one Light Road Wagon, one One Horse Farm Wagon, one Three Spring Phaeton, and one buggy harness, one Side Bar Buggy. G. Winfield Snow, No. 9 Bellevieu Street, Willimantic, Conn.

362. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: About Town.
Grant Jacobs of Mansfield has taken a clerkship in the post office.
Mrs. E.C. Potter has had a dangerous attack of hemorrhage from the lungs.
Adams Express company have had three different horses on the delivery wagon here in as many months.
John Killourey has recently made additions to his stable which makes it one of the best equipped livery stables.
Rev. G.H. Miner of New Britain exchanged pulpits with Rev. G.W. Holman of the Baptist church last Sunday.
The Miller Brothers and C.P. Hatch will give their third annual social at Music hall South Windham this evening.
Miss Belle Shaffer of the Baptist choir has an exceptionally sweet voice which would be of advantage to her to train.
Otis K. Dimock, formerly of this place, is now in the ship supply business in New York, junior partner in the firm of Daub & Dimock.
We are under obligations to Congressman Wait for the census compendium just issued. It is invaluable to our library for statistical reference.
The Morrison machine company shipped one of their spool turning machines to Kerr & Co., Paisley, Scotland, last week. The world is their field.
William J. Miller, president of the Willimantic Gas Co., has been nominated for secretary of state on the straight-out democratic ticket in Rhode Island.
Fast day was observed in no way but by the closing of some of the stores a part of the day. It was as usual one of the most lonesome and dreary days socially.
Mrs. L.E. Sisson, at the residence of Mrs. A.B. Adams on Union street, is showing a new method of dress cutting which is of interest to the ladies of this village.

363. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: The auction sale of dry goods at 15 Church street has been very largely attended and the seductive methods of Origen Bennett in the position of auctioneer have rattled off the goods at a brisk rate.

364. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: Nobody can say ought against John D. Wheeler, the present judge of probate, personally but there is a lingering feeling that Judge Clark ought never to have been ousted to satisfy the caprice of a politician.

365. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: We understand that the clothing business will be continued under the old and favorably-known firm name of W.L. Harrington & Co. at the same place, 111 Main street, Turner building. Their clearing sale, for the purpose of settling W.L. Harrington’s estate, was well attended if we may judge from the reduced condition of their present stock.

366. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: An unusual number of houses throughout the village are undergoing adornment from the painter’s brush. The most popular tints are green, red, brown, yellow, and drab. The houses on Prospect hill look remarkably bright this spring.

367. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: E.F. Reed has swapped his property on Maple Avenue, valued at $6,000, for S.F. Loomer's’ residence on Pleasant street paying about $1,500 to boot. It is said that the latter will build next spring on the lot adjoining “The Oaks” recently bought by J.M. Hall Esq.

368. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: The lawyers are at it again at Hotel Commercial on the Brewster spring case. The witnesses thus far have been Dr. G.B. Hamlin, John Tew, Dr. O.B. Griggs and Chas. T. Kenyon. They say they have but just begun with the depositions which will be taken here.

369. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: Frank Sturgis, a fireman on the New York and New England road fell at Hyde Park last night between the engine and tender. He seized a bar in falling, and was dragged for a quarter of a mile over the sleepers. He was found dead, his body being shockingly mangled.

370. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: The Alert hose company expect to change their reception room from its present location in Walden’s building to the room in Union block recently vacated by Dr. T.R. Parker. The present quarters are much much too small for their accommodation and the change is made on this account. The new room will be attractively fitted up for their use.

371. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: Lincoln & Boss, lumber and coal dealers, advertise the largest stock in their line of trade in eastern Connecticut. This firm has surely built up a mammoth business during its existence—probably the largest east of the Connecticut river. It will be well for every builder in this section to bear the fact in mind, for they have done it with their prices.

372. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: Why should not the Willimantic Library be made a free institution? It should and the Borough ought to so vote at the next public meeting. It is not near the benefit to the people of this village now that it would be if it were free to everybody. The money spent on it every year greatly exceeds the revenue—the income is very small at present. It should be free.

373. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: A meeting of a number of persons interested in base ball was held here Saturday at which an association was formed for the coming season by the choice of the following officers;--president, C.L. Boss; secretary and treasurer, C.H. Townsend; manager, Frank Frost; captain, Chas. A. Henry. There is an abundance of first-class base ball material in the village and it will be an easy work to pick out a “rattling” club.

374. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: About how much importance our legislators attach to their duties as lawmakers is well illustrated in the zeal exhibited by them whenever a little extra effort is desired. The legislator attempted to hold a Monday session this week and out of twenty four representatives from this county the following ten were present: Amos T. Fowler, Guilford Smith, George H. Law, Charles G. Williams, Frederick Hyde, Charles N. Allen, Prescott Bartlett, Waterman C. Bass, Lewis J. Wells and Nathan E. Morse.

375. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: J. O’Sullivan will build a house at the corner of Spruce and Jackson streets for Michael Sullivan the foundation of which is now being made. Michael O’Neil is staking a house out on upper Jackson street. A.R. Morrison is building an addition to his house on Pleasant street. Messrs. Potter and Moss have completed two houses on the Natchaug property “over the river.” J.R. Fry will lay out about $3,000 in improvements on his residence on Jackson street which has been contracted for with James Picknell. E. Bugbee will erect a building containing four tenements and two stores on Valley street. W.H. Lathan & Co. have contracts for four houses—J.B. Baldwin, W.C. Fuller’s and two for Lincoln & Boss. W.H.L. & Co. are now making the usual annual addition to the already mammoth work shop, 25x40 feet for a paint shop. Building by individuals promises to be very extensive this spring.

376. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: Rev. J.A. Princen Died at St. Joseph Parsonage.—Hardly had the sound of the bell which tolled the funeral dirge of Father Arnold died away, when the shocking intelligence came that a brother clergyman had passed away from life under the same roof at the Catholic church—Rev. James A. Princen of Danielsonville—after an illness of a few hours. At his home on the morning of Tuesday, he was in his usual robust health and on an early train started on his way to Hartford to be present at the ceremonies at St. Joseph’s Cathedral preparatory for Good Friday. He reached Putnam where a delay of about an hour was necessary. He consumed this in walking about the depot at that place and in the interim he was seized by sharp pains shooting through his chest. He boarded the cars on his journey thinking that he would soon be better in the warm atmosphere, but instead he grew rapidly worse. Fortunately Rev. Peter DeRoo of this place had an errand to the depot, and finding the suffering man on the 9 a.m. train in an alarming condition helped him to a hack and had him driven to Father DeBruycker’s home, else he might have died in the cars. Drs. McNally and Hills were immediately summoned and did all possible for his recovery but he died of congestion of the lungs at the age of 41 years. He was born in Weert, Holand, and had been in this country about 15 years. The funeral services were held at St. Joseph’s church Saturday at 9 o’clock at which was present a large congregation. It was conducted by Rev. Fl. DeBruycker, celebrant; Rev. John Cooney, of New Haven, deacon; Rev. A. VanOppen, Meriden, sub-deacon; Rev. E.J. Vygen, of Putnam, assistant priest. In the sanctuary were Revs. Thompson, Danielsonville, DeRoo, of this place, Shahan, Norwich, Broderick, New London. Rev. Fl. DeBruycker preached the funeral sermon. He was buried in the churchyard along side of Father Arnold. A band from Putnam came to escort the remains to Danielsonville Saturday but arrived after the body had been enclosed in the vault. By instructions from the Bishop he was buried in this village.

377. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: South Windham.
The singing school this week will be held Saturday evening instead of Friday as Mr. Fuller announced last week.

378. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: Andover.
Death has been busy in our midst the past week. Mrs. George O. Bingham died Wednesday, and Mr. Daniel P. Sprague and Mrs. Fannie Lathrop died Monday the 26th. It is quite a rare thing in our little town that two persons die on the same day. Mrs. Bingham had been quite feeble for a year or two past. Her funeral was attended Friday afternoon. Her age was 80. The death of Mr. Sprague was very sudden. He had been about and on the street up to within a few days of his decease, and our people generally were not aware that he was indisposed until they heard of his death. Mr. Sprague lived her in Andover nearly all his life. He followed the business of carriage maker for many years by which he acquired considerable property. He was quite prominent in town and county affairs during the active portion of his life. He held at different times nearly all the offices in the gift of his fellow townsmen, and was a county commissioner, at the time the present Tolland county jail was built. He leaves three daughters one of whom resides in Chicago, one in Canada and the other, Mrs. A.H. Lyman here in Andover. His age was 81. The death of Mrs. Lathrop was a great shock to the family, and to our community generally. Only a few weeks ago she seemed to be in the best of health and spirits. She was first taken with the mumps and her two boys aged 10 and 12 took them at about the same time. She was very sick with them, having taken cold and at the same time was very anxious about her boys, all of which finally brought on a slow fever, with severe nervous prostration, which finally wore her out. She would have been 35 if she had lived till next month. Mr. George O. Bingham, being left entirely alone by the death of his wife has gone to New London to reside with his adopted daughter, Mrs. A.H. Avery, Mr. and Mrs. Avery have been peculiarly and severely afflicted the past winter. Mr. Avery lost his father, mother and only brother, all within a few weeks, and now Mrs. Avery has lost her foster mother.
Mr. E.H. Perkins has resigned his position as foreman of the blacksmiths shops of the N.Y. & N.E.R.R. Co. at Hartford, and is now taking a well earned rest after 23 years of service with this Co. and the old H.P. & F. Co.

379. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: Mansfield Centre.
Mr. T. Arnold Carpenter of Mansfield Hollow has sold his spacious residence in the north end of the avenue to Mrs. Mary A. Gleason of Willimantic. Price not named. Mrs. Gleason contemplates making repairs which, when completed with add greatly to its already cozy and comfortable appearance. The only apparent objection to it as a home is its situation, it being located on the north or “pelebian [mean plebian?] side of the brook.”
Soon after the return northward of the migratory birds, the migratory part of our population will commence returning to their summer homes. Soon the vacant and ghost-like domiciles along the avenue will show symptoms of life and “Old Town Street” will put on its accustomed aristocratic appearance. How convenient is a plenty of money?
There is a distemper prevailing extensively about town in form of a dab-bad cold-in-the ed.

380. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: Columbia.
We notice the genial countenance of our old friend Geo. M. Woodward of Rockville in our streets last Tuesday.
Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Foote of Colchester visited their daughter Mrs. Dr. Gallup, last week.
W.H. Yeomans is in New York for a few days on business and pleasure trips combined.
Previous to the close of her vacation Miss Clara Sawyer gave a very pleasant tea party to some of her most intimate lady friends. The day following another of the same kind at Mrs. Harry Kneeland’s.
On Monday of last week L.C. Clark made five and one-half barrels of cider at Hunt’s mill and has a cheese ready for several more.
Fast day services were held in the churches as usual.
L.J. Robertson of Hartford purchased a car load of potatoes last week at 90 cts, and $1 per bushel of W.B. Little, G.B. Fuller and Mrs. Geo. Collins of this place.
Payson Little who has been teaching in Windham for the past few months has moved into town and is at present at his father’s on Chestnut Hill.
Charles Holbrook had six fowls stolen from his hennery on Thursday night and on the same night a buggy was taken from the shed of a neighbor drawn into an open field and filled with stones from an adjacent wall. Whoever was the perpetrator of the would-be-called joke, carried it most too far as the buggy was laden with heavy stones and might have seriously injured the springs.
Case, cutter for Sanford the lumber dealer has completed his contract and leaves town this week to engage in farming in Canton.
Mr. and Mrs. W.H. Batty with their children have been visiting friends in Middletown and New Britain.
(from another correspondent.)
Last Saturday week being the birthday of Mrs. Lydia Ticknor her children and grandchildren assembled at the old home and celebrated the event. Mrs. Ticknor was the third child of a family of six, and daughter of Eliphabett and Amy Yeomans and was born in West street near to where she now lives, March 17, 1803. She is about the house daily and engages at times in such light work as may suit her fancy, and on this occasion was the first to undertake the task of clearing away the remnants of a solid and substantial feast. She has always been accustomed to a life of toil and care consequent to farm life, and until recently has been possessed of a strong and clear mind, though now her mind is clear to a remarkable degree, and like most old people she has a clearer idea of scenes of early life. She was the recipient of numerous presents, such as aprons, a dress pattern, napkin and ring, pair of shoes, handkerchiefs, silver pieces, confectionery and oranges. It is hoped she may live to meet the same party at her 81st birthday.
The people of West street do not like to be credited with that 13 ½ lb boy of Mrs. Sullivans of Troy, N.Y., as mentioned in last week’s Chronicle. Neither do they care to rob any community of the honors of being the birthplace of the child, if there is any honors connected with it. It was born at a place known as Cobb Hollow, and at present remains repose in the classic precints [sic] last mentioned. In every other respect we indorse the item.
Mrs. Elizabeth Utley is sick with erysipelas though at this writing is much better. Dr. Gallup attends her.
It is reported that the boarders at Mrs. Buell’s have returned to their homes at Troy, N.Y.
The trapping season is now closed and Arthur Whitcomb awaits the return of that Mansfield fur gatherer with thirteen skunk pelts.

381. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: Lebanon.
The body of the Rev. William M. Burchard who died in Montville of pneumonia, was brought here for interment on Thursday last.
News has been recently received of the death of Mr. Charles H. Thomas Jr., who died near Ogdensburg, N.Y., of consumption. Mr. Thomas was an adopted son of Charles H. Thomas Esq. of Goshen Hill.
Mr. Charles L. Loomis received a dispatch from Bloomington, Ill., on Sunday night of last week announcing the painful tidings on the death of his only daughter Mrs. Andrew Washburn. Mr. Loomis and family have the sympathy of the entire community in the severe bereavement.
Anglers are now overhauling their fishing tackle and getting ready to war upon the wary trout. Meanwhile the boys are preparing to pursue the toothsome (?) chub sucker with fire and flame.
The condition of the roads is such that traveling, particularly in the night time, is quite dangerous. Holes resembling the craters of extinct volcanoes, only deeper, are not uncommon. It is reported that “Uncle” John Mack while on his way to Norwich with a load of produce on one of the thawy days of last week, broke through the frost near the residence of Jim Mason, and being in a hor-r-r-ry, pursued his way subterraneously a distance of something like half a mile, finally emerging into daylight and reaching the upper crust again through a “breathing hole” in the vicinity of Lamb’s barn, and from whence he continued his journey apparently none the worse for his adventure.

382. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: A New Haven lawyer has the reputation of being an adept at holding a piece of pie in his sleeve and eating it on the street for luncheon without being detected by any but the closest observer.—Hartford Post. That’s nothing. Only give them a chance, and some lawyers will get an entire estate into their vest pocket.—Willimantic Journal. As, for instance, the Tiffany estate on Walnut street.

383. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: North Windham.
Several changes in various departments are noticed. Mr. Horace Upton is fairly established in his new home and will soon erect a more capacious barn upon his premises.
Chas. Thomas has exchanged his property on the Willimantic road for the Lynch farm owned by M.M. Welch and he has in company with Chas. Lincoln already taken possession.
The Backus property has been sold to Wm. Sibley and J. Ottenheimer the former taking the village property, and the latter the land southwest of the village.
Mr. J.A. Edmonds and family will soon move to Norwich, while their farm will be improved by Mr. Miller of Ashford.
E.H. Hall & Son have given the superintending of their mill here to Mr. Robert Harley while W.C. Burdick, Alphonse Gallinas and Charles Ottenheimer have oversight of the various departments.
Little Charlie Brookman had the misfortune to break his collar bone a few days since by falling from a wagon.
Mr. E.L. Burnham has been making quite an extended trip westward on business.
Miss Amy Averd has been quite seriously ill, but is now improving.
Miss J.M. Peck, is home from Collinsville and is quite indisposed from hard work and a severe cold.

384. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: An outbreak is reported among the Cree Indians, and blood has already been shed in an encounter with their war party.

385. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: The Mexican officer in pursuit of raiding Apaches has issued an order forbidding quarter to Indians, man, woman, or child.

386. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: The Rev. L. Ives Hoadley, a graudate of Yale in the class of 1817, died of old age in Shelton, recently. He was born in Northford, Ct., ninety two years ago. He fitted for the ministry at Andover and was settled over the Centre Congregational society of Worcester. He was for a short time a professor at Andover. He preached in Orono, Me., and Craftsbury, Vt., but resigned when seventy-nine years old. He has resided in New Haven ever since.

387. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: Canterbury.
Darius Wood, Esq., and wife, of Webster, Mass., are in town and are the guests of Mr. H.R. Dyer and wife.
The Hon. Thos. G. Clark, representative in the legislature, was detained at home last week by illness. He will be in his seat the present week.
Frank Dyer Sanger is expected home this week from the Williston seminary for a short vacation.
The Rev. John H. Kopf preached in Scotland on Sunday. The Rev. L. Burleigh supplied the desk here. Mr. Kopf expects to preach in Windham next Sunday.
Mr. L.F. Eaton has been very sick. He is reported convalescent.
The schools in Tenth and Fifth school districts closed last week. The former is taught by Miss Myra B. Adams; the latter by Miss Olive D. Sanger—both teachers of experience and of established reputation. The large numbers of the friends and patrons of these teachers who were present at the closing exercises gave unmistakable evidence that they were well supported in their arduous labors. In district No. 5 the attendance was nearly perfect.

388. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: Died.
Princen—In Willimantic, march 22, Rev. James A. Princen, aged 41 years.
Minnon—In Mansfield, March 16, Catherine Minnon aged 85 years.
Lathrop—In Andover, March 27, Fannie A. Lathrop, aged 34 years.
Ashton—In Willimantic, March 25, Maria Ashton, aged 66 years.
La Fleur—In Willimantic, March 25, Maria LaFleur, aged 18 years.
Sprague—In Andover, March 27, Daniel C. Sprague, aged 81 years.
Edgarton—In Coventry, March 24, Oliver Edgarton, aged 67 years.

389. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: At a Court of Probate holden at Ashford within and for the district of Ashford on the 17th day of March, A.D. 1883. Present, David A. Baker, Esq. Judge. On motion of Catharine Trowbridge executrix with the will annexed on the estate of James Trowbridge, late of Ashford, 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 the executrix 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 sign-post in said town of Ashford, nearest the place where the deceased last dwelt. Certified from Record. Davis A. Baker, Judge.

390. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: A First-Class Restaurant is the one kept by Dumont Kingsley. 118 Main Street, Willimantic. Our eating apartment has been arranged with a special view to accommodate the public, and everything to satisfy the appetite will be provided temptingly cooked. We have established a reputation for keeping the very best confectionery, tobacco and cigars, and we shall endeavor to sustain it. The very best quality of fruit of all kinds, and in large variety, we keep in its season. Polite attention accorded to all.

391. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: Troops have been forwarded to arrest the belligerent Creeks, and one chief has already signified his intention to surrender t them.

392. TWC Wed Mar. 28, 1883: Willington.
Rev. Mr. Mitchell of Andover, Mass., Theological Seminary, preached at the Congregational church last Sabbath afternoon.
Seven families have moved or about moving from Daleville and vicinity.
James Hoyle Esq. has been appointed district committee in district No. 2 in place of George H. Knight who has removed to Providence, R.I.
Mrs. J.J. Hemmeler and her sister, Mr. Lewis Price, are spending a few days in Worcester, Mass.
E.P. Wedge, for several years engaged in the wagon making business at the Center, removes to Moosup, Ct. April 1.