Current Record of Events from 1792 to 1885

Cover Current Record of Events from 1792 to 1885

1792 Record in brief of the accession of members, and Building of the Church at Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire)

On the first of February 1792 and Elder Edmond Lougee came from New Lebanon N.Y. (New York) to organize and establish a Community of Believers at Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire)

Feb. 14
Bros. Peter Ayres and Moses Johnson came from Lebanon N.Y. (New York) also, to assist the Leaders abovementioned, and at this date the general gathering commenced.

The gospel had been preached in this vicinity by some of the disciples of Mother Ann , nearly ten years before the gathering mentioned.

The names and ages of those who lived in this locality previous to the organized Church, as given below:

Feb. 14 1792
Brethren
Benjamin Whitcher Sen. ae. 42
Micajah Tucker ae. 28
Frances Winkley ae. 33
John Bishop ae. 34
William Lougee ae. 30
Timothy Jones ae. 23
James Fletcher ae. 26
James Daniels we. 25
Benjamin Whitcher Jr. ae. 15
John Whitcher ae. 13

Sisters
Mary Whitcher ae. 40 yrs
Molly Cotton ae. 24 yrs
Sarah Beek ae. 29 yrs
Molly Drake ae. 24 yrs
Hannah Lougee ae. 24 yrs
Comfort Smith ae. 20 yrs
Sarah Gowen ae. 24 yrs
Anna Carr ae. 26 yrs
Zilpha Whitcher ae. 28 yrs

1792

Names of members from other localities with date of accession on this page.

Feb. 15
Jonathan Lougee ae. 31 yrs
John Fuller ae. 17 yrs
Benjamin Sandborn ae. 29 yrs
Daniel Fletcher ae. 18 yrs
John Winkley ae. 29 yrs

Feb. 25
Ezekiel Stevens Sen. ae. 48
Samson Merrill ae. 25
John Heath ae. 24

Mar. 31
John Wadleigh ae. 35

May 11
Mother Hannah Goodrich (ae. 29 yrs) with Sister Anna Burdick ae 29 yrs. Came from New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) to preside as leaders of the Sisterhood at Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire)

On this same date eight sisters more were added to the Church, although they did not move in immediately, or were not permanent residents until October 3rd. same year.

May 14
Abigail Sanborn ae. 20 yrs
Lydia Sanborn ae. 18 yrs
Sully Sanborn ae. 16 yrs

July 11
John Beek ae. 19 yrs

July 12
Elijah Brown ae. 20 yrs
Jeremiah Sanborn ae. 22 yrs

July 14
Elijah Fletcher ae. 20 yrs

July 18
Hannah Beek ae.
Amy Beek ae. 21 yrs
Betty Muffett ae. 20 yrs
Abigail Wiggin ae. 17 yrs
Peggy Beck ae. 17 yrs

Sept. 27.
Sarah Winkley ae. 34 yrs
Nellie Fibbetts ae. 30 yrs

Oct. 3
Mary Hatch ae. 36 yrs
Molly Chase ae. 20 yrs
Lydia Wright ae. 21 yrs
Elizabeth Avery ae. 39 yrs
Joanna Fletcher ae. 24 yrs
Amarilla Wright ae. 26 yrs
Martha Higgin ae. 19 yrs
Mercy Elkins ae. 18 yrs

Oct. 15
Josiah Corbett
Abraham Merrill

Dec. 5
Isaac Fibbetts
Ezekiel Morrell
On Dec. 5, the Church consisted of 54 adult members. (males 27, females 27)

1792

Names and Ages of the first minors accepted by the Church

Sep. 28
Youth
Abraham Merrill ae. 17 yrs
William Fletcher ae. 15 yrs
Josiah Lougee ae. 15 yrs
Clement Beek ae. 15 yrs
Israel Sanborn ae. 13 yrs

Dec. 14
Girls
Dolly Lougee ae. 17 yrs
Michab Parker ae. 16 yrs
Lucy Williams ae. 15 yrs
Rachel Parker ae. 14 yrs
Betsy Lougee ae.13 yrs
Tabitha Williams ae. 13 yrs
Sarah Fletcher ae. 12 yrs

Sep. 20
The new Meeting House or Church was finished it having been upward of six months in building

Nov. 15
The first Tan House was raised 26 x 36 ft.

The first Journal of current events of the Church was kept by Thankful Parker to year 1819.

Notes
First Visitors received

Apr. 16
Elder Henry Clough and Samuel Spires [Spiers] of New Lebanon N.Y. (New York)

May 11
Mother Hannah Goodrich New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) Anna Burdick Hancock Mass (Massachusetts)

Nov. 1
Elder John Barnes from New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) He accompanied our Ministry on their return from New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York)

Note
The author of Leavitt's Almanac was born May 23 1792

1793

Current Events.

Jan. 1
Ezekiel Stevens Sen. and Ruth Stevens came from Church at Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire)

Apr. 12
Hannah Muffett and Mahala Sleeper were gathered

Apr. 25
Calvin Goodell comes from Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire)

Apr. 29
Joseph Sanborn Jr. comes from Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire)

Apr. 30
The First Dwelling 32 x 42 was raised. It was finished and occupied on Nov. 11, 1793.

July 29
John Jewett of Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) comes to find a permanent home.

Dec. 10
Zadock Wright [of Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) comes] to be Senior Trustee in the Church

Dec. 16
Jesse Wright [of Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) comes] to live at Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire)

Nov. 13
The first Blacksmith Shop is raised 22 x 50 feet

Nov. 26
John Sanborn comes to Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire) At this date the Chh. consisted of 79 members.

Notes
Mar. 30 1973
Elder Henry Clough and Aaron Frizzle made a visit of five days only. This was in part for the purpose of looking after Elder Henry 's estate which was not sold until the Believers had removed from it in the December following.

1794

Current Events.

April
Meeting House painted for the first time

June 4
First Store raised 22 x 28 ft. or Trustees 1st Office First Horse stable 26 x 59 ft.

July 18
Father Job Bishop and Elder Edmond go to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) on horseback some over 40 miles this being the cheapest and most available mode of travel in these days.

Sept. 30
The Second Dwelling is raised on Tuesday 30 x 40 ft. or it was purposed to do so but the wind became so violent that the task was deferred till next day.

Mary Ward a young woman of 22 yrs. was struck by the falling of a tree so heavily that she died in consequence

Dec.
The Trustees Zadock Wright and Josiah Edgerly who have boarded at John Sanborn's the past 16 mos. now move into Church Office

Mar. 25
The Sisters' Spin Shop 24 x 32 ft was raised

Mar. 27
Hannah Lougee deceased ae. 24 yrs. This was the first death which occurred after the Church was organized

Note
Names of First Elders: chosen; Benjamin Whitcher , Edmond Lougee , Mary Hatch and Molly Drake .

1795

Current Events.

May 27
The West portion of the North Orchard set out with apple trees this Spring

Jun 16
The Wheel Shop 22 x 35 ft. which was built in 1791 was removed North of its original site, and repaired throughout.

July 29
The Card Shop 26 x 30 ft. was raised. The Second Dwelling House was completed this Summer.

Aug. 17
The Church which at this date numbers 88 members exclusive of Ministry (44 brn. 44 sisters) is separated into two Orders.

Ezekiel Stevens and James Daniels are employed at Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) in painting the Meeting House

The Laundry is moved and repaired about this time

1796

Current Events.

Mar. 30
The Second Order members moved into the "Second Dwelling House." Some boys and girls are added, and the Order now consists of 22 males & 23 females = Total 45 persons. The "First Order" numbers 21 males 20 females. Total of both Orders, 86: exclusive of Ministry.

Apr. 30
The Church Covenant was prepared this year. It was signed by members of the First Order, May 12th. and by the "Second Order" May 16th—Minors excepted.

May 28
Father Joseph Meacham visited Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) July 8th, he having been to Alfred (Alfred, Maine) & Harvard (Harvard, Massachusetts) , was accompanied from the latter place, by Elder Eleazar Wright and Jonathan Crouch. They left July 10th.

We learn that Father Joseph deceased about the 20th of August, soon after his arrival home.

Sept. 20
A Coal Shed was raised

Nov. 9
Benjamin Warren came here from Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) to live at Trustees' Office

Dec. 1976
The Ministry have travelled extensively this season Father Job has travelled 1900 miles Mother Hannah & Sister Molly Bennick 1660 miles.

1797

Current Events

Note The first No. of Dudley Leavitt 's Almanac was published this year.

Jan. 12
The Church having been divided into Separate orders during the past 17 months now combine into one, by order of the Leaders.

Mar. 22
Our first Eldress; ( Mary Whitcher ) deceased ae. 44 yrs. The second person who has died since the Church was organized.

Aug. 23
The Grain Store 22 ft. by 24 was raised Sept. 25.

Sept.
The water pipes (made of wood) were laid in the grounds consisting of 200 rods in extent.

Nov. 8
The Horse Mill 36 ft. square was raised to-day.

1787
Various Items
(Miscellaneous)
The Constitution of the U.S. was communicated to the Federal Congress Sept. 17, 1787

Apr. 30 1789 Geo. Washington took the oath as the first President of the United States.

Hats were worn by the sisters in 1792. When Mother Lucy Wright and Sister Ruth Hammond visited Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) Lucy Williams made them each a chip hat, instead of the heavy straw ones which they wore.

1798

Current Events

Feb.
The first form of religious exercise was introduced about this date. It being somewhat more rapid than we had formerly used. (Three beats of the tune to one step)

Mar. 25
The East portion of the North Orchard is set with fruit trees this Spring

Oct. 16
The Porch, 11 ft. square was raised The East Wood-Shed 15 x 42 ft. raised

Oct.
The wall from the South corner of North field to Second Family was built this year or about 50 rods of the same. The foundation was laid in 1797. Wall on the West side of the road opposite the first 50 rods. was rebuilt— The cemetery and field adjoining were walled in this year. 300 rods or more in one year of stone wall.

Nov. 20
What was termed the Deacon's barn was raised from an old frame at this date.

1799

Current Events

Feb.
Visiting by members from one society to another commenced this year.

Apr. 23
An addition framed at the East end of the Garden Shop for dressing cloth making the whole 20 ft. by 37 was built this year.

Aug. 15
The West Woodshed 15 ft. x 49 ft raised on Tuesday. The Meeting House field walled in this year except the side next the road which was built in 1793.

1800

Current Events

Mar. 1.
A fire broke out in the "Hatter's Shop." It was supposed to have caught in a box of sawdust used as a spittoon. It burned through the flooring & the flames burst furiously out of the windows, and raged so fiercely for a time, that nearly all hope of saving the structure was lost. After a half hour's earnest work, it was extinguished.

May
The "Meeting House" was painted externally the second time this Spring.

1801

Current Events

Mar. 1
A shock of earthquake signally felt. Mar. 10
A Family is organized at the North House. Six members are appointed from the Church viz. Benjamin Sanborn , Timothy Jones , Daniel Fletcher, Sarah Beck , Joanna Fletcher & Lydia Sanborn . Seven members from Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) also, viz. Jonathan Basford, Moses Jewett, Jeremiah Sanborn , Sarah Lyon, Molly Jewett, Molly Williams, and Betty Blodgett.

May 13
The first new barn 38 ft. by 90. was raised on Wednesday.

June 5

The brethren are obliged to keep a smoke in the orchards to prevent the frost from injuring the fruit crop.

Sept. 30
The Church Covenant renewed, Signed by members on Oct. 12.

Oct.
One hundred barrels of cider have been made this Fall. No. of members in Chh. at present date 73 No. of members in N. F. (North Family) having been supplied from the Church our numbers seem lessened.

1802

Current Events

Sep. 29
The Small Pox being prevalent in cities not far remote, the residents of both Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) and Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) were vaccinated as a preventive.

Nov. The first Dairy, built. this season

Nov. 25.
The advent of the Measles at Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) proved very prejudicial to the general health of its victims.

1803

Current Events

The cross road from the South Barn to " Jones Place" West, was laid out this Spring.

Apr. 6

The Second new Barn 38 x 110 ft. was raised on Wednesday, joined at the West end of the first. The dimensions of the whole (38 ft. by 200.)

Eighty apple trees were Set at the North end of hog pasture this Spring. Subsequently called "West Orchard."

May 8
(Snow fell for 12 consecutive hours.) The sills at Meeting House were found to be fast decaying owing to the lack of air in circulation. These were removed and new ones inserted.

June 17
Jonathan Lougee and John Fuller went to Harvard Mass. (Massachusetts) to Mother Lucy 's pleasure wagon.

June 30
The East-barn-shed 15 ft. by 84 was raised.

Oct. 26
The Church composed of 73 persons took their meals at one sitting exclusive of attendants or, (table waiters)

Barrels of cider made (104.)

1804

Current Events

June 12
The Fulling Mill 25 feet square was raised on Tues. The gears were built in 1800.

July 18.
A frost occurred of unusual severity for the season

Oct. 9
A violent snow-storm came as a surprise accompanied with thunder

Note.
Visiting from one Society to another, was extensively practiced this year, by Believers in Massachusetts and New Hampshire particularly. As many as ten companies, were thus engaged from May to December.

1805

Current Events

Jan 1.

John Meacham Issaachar Bates & Benjamin S. Youngs go to Ohio, to deliver the testimony of "Christ's Second Appearing"

Jan 15
Francis Winkley Israel Sanborn Lydia Wright and Zilpha Whitcher go on a visit to Harvard Mass. (Massachusetts)

Mar. 25
Fisher Lyon comes from Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) to Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) to reside.

May 12. a heavy shock of earthquake experienced

May 21
The Elders from Alfred Me. (Maine) come for a visit, viz. Elder David Barnes Solomon Pote Sarah Barnes and Cassandana Thombes.

July 1st
Elder David Darrow Daniel Moseley , & Solomon King go to Ohio, expecting to meet the brethren who left home for that place, on January first.

Note.
Visiting continues through this year as in 1804.

Aug. 1 to Aug. 28

An unusual drought prevails.

A heavy drought from July 1st to Aug 28 recurs

Oct.
Our second aqueduct laid—230 rods in length

Nov. 2
The Porch at the North side of east House raised. Note
The Church of the present, numbers 73 members.

1806

Current Events

Mar. 16.
Change of members in the Elders has recently been made. Bro. Benjamin Whitcher Sen. who has been the senior Elder for the past 12 yrs resigns his charge. Ezekiel Sterns Sen. and Sarah Winkley also of same order resign. Elders Micajah Tucker John Beck & Zilpha Whitcher are appointed to fill the vacancies made. Elder Sister Mary Hatch still remaining

Apr. 3
The House for entertaining visitors 24 ft. x 32 raised

Apr. 21
Peter Pease , Constantine Moseley and John Wright with six sisters viz. Ruth Farrington Lucy Smith Martha Sanford Prudence Farrington Ruth Darrow and Molly Goodrich of New Lebanon N.Y. (New York) leave home on a journey to Ohio.

June 11
Lydia Sanborn leaves the Ministry's duties and Rhoda Mills takes her place

June 16
Total eclipse of the sun at 11-27 a.m.

June 23
The "Wash-Mill House" raised, also East end of Spin Shop raised this month.

Sep. 11
The East Porch 13 ft. by 18 ft. raised

[Blank Page]

1807

Current Events

Note.
The first volume of a religious character ever published by Believers was entitled "The Kentucky Revival." An octavo volume of about 150 pages; which gives a brief history of the great revival and outpouring of the Spirit of God, in the then Western States.

A small pamphlet was written by Father Joseph Meacham some years earlier, by the special request of a deaf man. It was printed in Bennington, Vt. (Vermont) —1790—entitled; "A Concise History of the Principles of the only True Church"

June 18
An addition to the Old Store is made

July 13
Archibald Meacham Susanna Cole Lucy Bacon and Rachel Johnson of New Lebanon N.Y. (New York) leave home for Ohio.

Note.
April 3 1807 an unparalleled snow storm with high winds. Snow 4 ft. deep in highways

1807
Chinese Tea renounced by Believers Archibald Meacham Susanna Cole , Lucy Bacon Rachel Johnson from Leb. & Wtr. go to Ohio to help the young believers of that Section

1807
The Kentucky Revival published—the first volume devoted to religious sentiments by Believers

1808

Current Events

Jan. 1.
Elder John Warner of Harvard Mass. (Massachusetts) came to Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) bringing a special message from Mother Lucy addressed to our Ministry for an awakening among Believers which had already taken place at the West, wishing the same gift to be administered throughout the Eastern States

The message was accepted and the revival began being attended with keen testimonies and powerful demonstrations of both body and mind.

Elder Edmond Lougee was sent to carry the message to the societies of Alfred (Alfred, Maine) and Gloucester Me. (Maine)

Oct. 10
The Elders of the Gathering Order from New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) come to Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) in the interests of missionary work viz. Eld. Daniel Goodrich Eld. Calvin Greene . Sisters, Susanna Ellis & Esther Bennett . The brethren preached on the Sabbath, to a large concourse of people who had been invited to attend About 1000 strangers were present.

During this year six girls were accepted by the Church. The first admitted after the Church organization was established viz. Clarissa Foster Lavina Libby Huldah Garland, Zillah Randlett , Almira Blake and Michal Blake

1809

Current Events

Apr. 17.
Four persons were sent to the State of Ohio as efficient aids to the Believers in that place viz. Comstock Betts Hortensia Goodrich of Hancock Mass. (Massachusetts) Hopewell Curtis and Mary Picket of New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) .

1810

Current Events

Jan. 19
At this date the Cold Friday of past history occurred It was considered the coldest & most tempestuous day for ages preceding, in this locality. Few persons attempted to travel on said day, so many were badly frozen while some actually perished. The gale commenced near midnight. Dwellings were blown down and the inmates completely exposed to the mercy of the raging elements.

Fruit and forest trees were killed, and the bark ultimately cleaved from the trunks, in the ensuing Spring.

June 16
The second edition of the work entitled "Christ's Second Appearing" was issued near present date written by Benjamin S. Youngs —printed at Albany N.Y. (New York) in 620 duodecimo pages.

Aug 4
Israel Sanborn , Calvin Goodell, Lydia Sanborn and Thankful Parker go to New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) and Watervliet N.Y. (New York) taking with them as a donation ($300) for Deacon Richard Spiers , beside ($20.00) and a dozen home-made candlesticks as a gift to Bro. Seth Y. Wells .

Oct 8
Fisher Lyon , Francis Winkley & Dea. Nathaniel Draper of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) attend Court at Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) in a case 'versus' John Heath, who threatened to break the Chh Covenant—He did not succeed Cost shakers ($71.00)

1810

Current Events

Jan. 19. The "Cold Friday" as it was termed occurred, which was thought to be the most tempestuous, if not the coldest day known for ages preceding. Few persons attempted to travel on that day yet many had badly frozen limbs, and some perished from intense cold

An unprecedented gale commenced about midnight. Dwellings were blown down or unroofed leaving inmates completely exposed to the merciless elements. Fruit and forest trees were killed and the bark cleaved from their trunks in the ensuing Spring

Apr. 23.

James Daniels and Elijah Brown (house carpenters by trade) went to Harvard Mass. (Massachusetts) to assist the brethren there in buildings

June 16.

The Second Edition of the work entitled "Christ's Second Appearing" was issued near this date.

It was written by Benjamin S. Youngs , printed at Albany N.Y. (New York) in 620 duodecimo pages.

Aug. 4.

Israel Sanborn , Calvin Goodell, Lydia Sanborn & Thankful Parker went to New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) and Watervliet (Watervliet, New York) taking with them as a donation ($300) three hundred dollars for Dea. Richard Spiers also twenty dollars ($20.00) with a dozen homemade candlesticks as a gift to Bro. Seth Y. Wells .

1810

Current Events

Oct. 8.
Fisher Lyon Francis Winkley of Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire) and Dea. Nathaniel Draper of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) are summoned to court in a case against John Heath who threatened to break the Church Covenant, but who did not succeed. Cost to the Shakers ($71.00)

Nov. 21.
The old Office was removed to the Second Family No recompense for transportation received. Sheet iron, brick, lime &c valued at ($300.00)

1811

Current Events

Oct. 14
Ezekiel Stevens Sen. goes to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) to help build their large dwelling at North Family Was employed sixty days.

Nov. 21. 1810 [move entry back to 1810?]
The Old Office was removed to Chase Wiggins Family. No recompense for transportation received Sheet iron, brick, lime, &c valued at $300.

Mar. 6.
John Whitcher who was associated with Father Job in the ministry leaves that position to take up with the duties of the Trustee

Elder Benjamin Whicher [Written in margins:] [Whitcher] succeeds him in the Ministry.

Apr. 1
John Whitcher returns to Minstry's Order (Ministry) and Elder Benjamin comes into the family

July 25
John Whitcher leaves the ministry again and comes into the family Elder Benjamin succeeds John once more.

Nov. 14
The new house next the road is now occupied

The "South Factory Dam" built this Fall.

1812

Current Events

Apr. 30
The Carding Mill raised on the " Burgh Lot" "38 x 42 ft" two stories high

May 1st
Peter Ayres and Clement Beck go to New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) after a portion of the carding machinery, to be placed in new Mill.

June 22
Josiah Edgerly goes to New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) to get the remaining portion of said machinery. Returns on the 8th inst. accompanied by Eleazar Deming and Asa Talcott who are to adjust the machines for operation in the early summer.

On May 3rd 4th & 5th a severe snow storm occurs while the weather continues unusually cold.

1813

Current Events

June 12
A mob of rowdies collected at the North Family in the evening led by Josiah Evans with the intention of taking his three children whom he had voluntarily placed under the care of said family. He was not successful.

During the Winter and Spring of this year a malignant Fever raged at New Lebanon N.Y. (New York) and Hancock Mass. (Massachusetts) More than 40 persons were victims of this fatal malady. 28 at New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) 12 at Hancock (Hancock, Massachusetts) & 1 at Watervliet (Watervliet, New York)

Sept. 2
The "Store north of "Trustee's Office" raised

Nov. 2
The "Clothes Dry-House" 53 x 32 ft was raised

Some visiting from various Societies occurs this season

1814

Current Events

May
The "East Dwelling House" which was originally 32 x 42 ft. was repaired and enlarged this season, as follows: Eighteen feet added at each end the roof raised and a Porch built on the North side 26 x 20 ft. which makes the building 32 x 78 ft. exclusive of the Porch

The East end was added by Mar 30. the West June 15th and the Porch June 27 with cellars under each

1815

Current Events

Apr. 13
An alteration or revision made in the interior of Ancient Church (Meeting House) this Spring. The stairways were removed from the ends of the building they having formerly robbed the Meeting room of valuable space. A porch was now raised on the East side for a stairway and entry leading to Ministry's apartments in the chambers of the Second Story. The chimneys were also rebuilt the house painted inside and outside. This job occupied nearly five weeks.

Josiah Edgerly and James Daniels go to Harvard Mass. (Massachusetts) to assist in framing a building

Sept. 23
A devastating hurricane blew down buildings and did much damage in other ways.

1816

Current Events

Sep. 10
Erastus Rood and Henry Hammond come from New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) , to learn the trade of making candlesticks

Sep. 25
Israel Sanborn is summoned to Probate Court Exeter N.H. (New Hampshire) On Oct. 14. Francis Winkley Israel Sanborn Peter Ayers and Cornelius Fuller go to attend said court. Cornelius chose Israel Sanborn for his guardian.

Nov.
The brethren cut a canal this season two miles in extent to secure a branch of the "Guess Meadow brook" to their mill ponds

The present year is universally conceded to be the cold season, or the Winter without a Summer

June 6.
The soil was frozen more than an inch in depth Men at work on the highway, were furnished with great coats mittens &c.

The lowest price for corn and rye was $1.50 per bushel.

June 10.
An icicle, ten inches long hung from an aqueduct post, stationed in the Laundry, as an illustration of the icy atmosphere in one of the summer months.

1817

Current Events

June 19
Dea. Francis Winkley and John Whitcher being summoned to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) there learned that Mary Dyer had laid a Petition before the Legislature containing many heavy charges against the Shakers and praying for redress of grievances. John subsequently went to Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) to apprise Joseph Dyer and Elder John Lyon of the fact and also to notify them to attend court. To this they responded accompanied by John Whitcher from this place on the 23rd of June

They not only stood the trial but proved her allegations false, and Mary Dyer was counseled to withdraw her petition. Yet notwithstanding all this such was the plaintiff's influence on the Court, that the following Bill passed both houses

But it not being sanctioned by the Governor, His Excellency Gov. Plummer, it did not become a law.

June 23
Bill of Divorce and Alimony in the Senate relative to joining the Shakers, excited by Mary Dyer, ran thus:

In Senate,

A vote for a Committee to consider the propriety of reporting a Bill, providing that when either husband or wife joins the Society commonly called Shakers, it shall be a legal cause of divorce, and giving the qualities of the Superior Court of judicators, power to decree such a divorce, and to make such decree concerning alimony as

1817

Current Events

they shall deem proper, and also giving said Justices power to bring the children of such persons before them by "Habeas Corpus," and to make such decree concerning their maintenance as to them may appear just and reasonable, was brought up and read and concurred." Taken from the Journal of the Senate in 1817.

1818

Current Events

June 16
Mary Dyer having laid another petition before the Legislature, containing numerous false charges against the Shakers, and praying for redress of pretended grievances sustained by a pamphlet under signature of Eunice Chapman filled with scandalous false hoods, the Believers met her before the Court June 16, 1818, with a written remonstrance showing the falsity of her allegations, whereupon she had leave, to again withdraw her petition, as she presented nothing worthy of legislative interference.

From this time, the plaintiff, Mary Dyer, used her influence among backsliders, trying by their aid, to collect all the scandalous matter possible for publication.

This caused frequent journeys from our Society to Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) by Brethren to attend to matters of inquisition so assidulously agitated by Mary Dyer and her confederates.

June 20
A Committee came here to inspect Shaker premises to see if the vague reports of Mary Dyer had any semblance of truth.

The Committee were permitted to go wherever they chose to catechise any member of the Society with regard to his or her mode of living.

1818

Current Events

June 21.
Nearly thirty members of the Legislature attended our Public Services at the Church in which Father Job Bishop and Joseph Dyer addressed the assembly.

Sep. 30
John Whitcher travelled much to aid in adjusting these matters. He went to Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) later to help compile a pamphlet to refute reports so false and aid Joseph Dyer also.

1819

Current Events

June 27.
Sabbath. As many as twenty members of the general court attended Public service They afterward dined in the Family's Dining Hall. Subsequently listened to readings and recitations by the Scholars and seemed well satisfied with the instruction given by the Teacher; Bro. John Whitcher .

1820

Current Events

Feb. 9
Mother Hannah Goodrich deceased after a protracted illness of 4 months. Her narrator states:

"By the death of our beloved Mother Hannah , we are deprived of the visible presence of one of the sweetest kindest and most anxious of mothers. Nor were these her only qualifications in the part she was called to act, for she was possessed by nature with a sound penetrating mind, by which requisite she was able to decide promptly as well as wisely on matters of grave import, and give as a rule such general satisfaction. She was of a sympathetic nature and consequently was very tender toward the sick or unfortunate.

Sep. 25
"To Hampton Beach (Hampton Beach, New Hampshire) "—Bros. John Jewett, Levi Stevens and sisters Mercy Elkins and Molly Drake for recuperation in a three days sojourn on the Atlantic Shore.

1821

Current Events

Jan. 1
Abraham Whitney of Harvard Mass (Massachusetts) . comes toCanterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) for a visit, and by request gives lessons in writing music, also in reading from musical characters. Bro. A. obtained a musical education prior to joining the Believers which subsequently he sought to simplify by using the first seven letters of the Alphabet to represent tones rather than the sound notes universally used abroad

Believers at this date had no instrumental music, consequently no harmony no part singing. Thus Bro. A. improvised a brief method of writing music for simple melodies, so that the majority of singers might be able to read new music at sight. This method in its simplicity had the same advantages in writing music rapidly as has the stenographer in writing sentences and long paragraphs when taking down an oration or sermon

Music as an art had been to some extent disannulled owing to the belief maintained among Believers, that they must scrupulously avoid the customs and fashions of the world as far as consistent.

In consideration however of the convenience to be realized by learning the music written by other societies, and of transmitting simple melodies written at home for them it was

1821

Current Events

deemed necessary by the Central Ministry atMt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) to instruct our singers in the simple rules of Music as taught by Abraham Tiffany A few of our singers applied themselves to the task, learned the rudiments so that they could read music very well when represented by letters, and some could write music by listening to vocal or instrumental performers, who had never experienced a musical training

1822

Current Events

July 11.
This section of country was visited by a powerful electric storm The rain fell incessantly from 2 o'clock P.M. till the next day at noon Terrific lightning and thunder accompanying the whole time.

Mar.
A fire engine constructed by Thomas Corbett and others was operated April 9th to test its capacity

Oct. 9.
A large Well was digged in the North door yard by our brethren, as a safe guard in case of fire. It is a few rods North of our Kitchen. Its dimensions 6 ft. in diameter 50 ft. in depth. A portion of this depth had to be drilled through solid rock—(granite) The water, however, proved unfit for drink owing to its positive sulphurous odor, at this early date.

It has recently been chemically analyzed and pronounced by scientists not only perfectly harmless but medicinal in quality

Aug.
On August of present year, the North Family's barn was struck by lightning, being full of grain and hay. The bolt penetrated the roof and followed the timbers nearly through the center

1822

Current Notes & Events

of a large mass of hay to the ground, without communicating fire to the hay or doing any injury except to slightly splinter the roof and some of the timbers.

This circumstance was thought to be an interpostion of Providence as no human precaution could have been of any avail in the case

1823
Bro. Seth Y. Wells arrives from Watervliet (Watervliet, New York) June 19, keeps a school for both boys & girls alternately for a fortnight.

Sept. 3
The Ministry viz. Father Job Bishop Elder Benjamin Whitcher , Eldress Esther Ferrin & Eldress Lydia Sanborn left for New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) Watervliet (Watervliet, New York) and Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire)

On returning via. Harvard (Harvard, Massachusetts) & Shirley (Shirley, Massachusetts) Eldress Lydia became ill with a violent fever which it was feared would prove fatal. By the unwearied efforts of the sisters at Shirley (Shirley, Massachusetts) , sustained by the prayers of her people at home, she became convalescent, and was able to return Nov. 5, accompanied by Sisters Rebecca Williams , Daniel Willard , Jonathan Kenny of Shirley Mass (Massachusetts) ; and Bro. Thomas Corbett of Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire)

Dec 27
John Whitcher goes to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) to assist in schooling and literary efforts in general.

Note.
1 The Church this year raised 1400 bushels potatoes and made 350 barrels cider.

2 Francis Goodrich & Wm. Yeasley of Watervliet (Watervliet, New York) make a brief call, bring with them copies of the "Millenial Church" (just published)

1824

Current Events

July
A machine for shelling corn was manufactured by our brethren. It was tested however a little too thoroughly by a little boy who in turning it got caught by his right hand which was fearfully mangled, and rendered him a cripple ever after. The machine proved efficient as a corn sheller.

Oct. 27
Israel Sanborn released from Office duties. Levi Stevens takes his place

Weather Notes
On Feb. of present year rain fell eleven or twelve days in succession. There being a large body of snow on the ground a great freshet resulted.

The bridges on the Merrimac river were swept away The Hookset Concord New Hampton & Canterbury bridges shared one fate Snow and water was so deep on all the roads as to render them impassable.

1825

Current Events

Mar 20
Betsey Lougee who has been an associate Elder for ten years past is released and Sarah Fletcher takes her trust

Apr. 20
Levi Stevens removed from Trustees' Office. Dea. Francis Winkley takes his place

June 18
John Sanborn goes to the Office, being appointed Trustee

John Whitcher of the Church, and Robert Fowle of N. F. (North Family) go on a missionary journey

July Unprecedented hot weather. Very heavy drought. The grass crackles beneath our tread, and the grasshoppers are too numerous to number.

Dec. 20
A North East rain storm occurred. The first rain that has fallen since April last. It is thought that the present season is the driest known during the last one hundred years!

1826

Current Events

Jan. 31
The weather was excessively cold Bros. John Whitcher and Robert Fowle were badly frost bitten on face and hands while returning from a missionary tour to Tamworth (Tamworth, New Hampshire) and Sandwich N.H. (New Hampshire) After travelling ten miles they were obliged to shop at Center Harbor (Center Harbor, New Hampshire) the remainder of the day. Mer. registered 20 degrees below zero.

Mar. 19
A fire broke out in the Elder Sisters' room It caught in a cupboard through which passed a wooden funnel for candle smoke.

The Church was holding a religious service at the time. Some of members realized a sort of presentiment before scenting the smoke. The alarm was soon given and the assembly dispersed The fire was fortunately readily extinguished but the room & its contents were badly damaged with water fire and smoke.

From this date forward wooden funnels were abolished and tin ones substituted.

July 24
John Whitcher goes to North Family to live.

Oct. 4.
David Parker ae. 19 yrs. appointed to transact business at Trustees Office"

Nov. 27.
Proctor Sampson and David Rowley of New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) call here for a short visit. They leave for Harvard (Harvard, Massachusetts) Nov. 30. 1826.

Aug. 28.
(A powerful rain in N.E. (New England) caused the avalanche at [start of snippet to copy] White Mts. known as the " Willey Slide")

1828

Current Events

N.B.
Jan. 4
The Church is summoned to attend a very singular funeral this evening in behalf of King Alcohol. The same event was previously solemnized at New Lebanon N.Y. (New York) The remains of said personage were interred in the same receptacle with other evils of similar repute - and the resolution was passed that as Believers who wish to honor our profession no latitude shall be given to any intemperate habits and we further resolve that we shall not be devotees of Bacchus nor bow the knee to Baal

1827

Nov. 1827
Note A fierce North wind unroofed buildings prostated trees, fences & cord-wood generally.

July 2
Ezra Wiggin leaves home forNew Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) via. Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) where Samuel Barker joins him Their mission is to purchase some volumes newly published entitled "Testimonies of Living Witnesses"

July 18
Elder Benjamin S. Youngs of South Union Ky (Kentucky) arrived with Elder Grove Wright of Hancock Mass. (Massachusetts) Elder Benjamin delivered an interesting discourse on Sunday strongly advocating the mother in the new creation as well as in the old

Aug. 28
The Northern Lights presented a very singular appearance They assumed the form of the rainbow extending N.E. & S.W. arching the whole heavens. It was apparently about a yard broad at its center tapering to a mere point toward the horizon at each end. The whole Northern hemisphere was illumined with brilliant arrows of light

1828

Current Events

Sep.
Dea. Francis Winkley and other brethren fromCanterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) and Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) were at much expense this year in attending general court to defend and present a remonstrance drawn up against a petition signed and presented by James Willis and 124 others of the town ofEnfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) and vicinity praying legislative aid for the wives and children of such as join the Shakers

The petition was referred to the Committee on the judiciary, and on their report it was postponed to the next session

Early in November two other petitioners similar to the above, consisting of about 80 signers were presented to the House (House of Representatives) . It was alleged that the heads of families who join the Shakers, take no further care of their wives and children but leave them in a state of absolute wretchedness & want.

Dec. 3
At a meeting of the Committee, the petitioners being unable to prove their allegations, requested a postponement to the 16th, which was granted. When that day arrived and the Committee and parties had convened, the petitioners requested still another postponement, which was denied them.

Philip Carrigain was counsel for the petitioners and a bitter enemy to Believers. Joel Parker of Keene N.H. (New Hampshire) was counsel for the remonstrants and pleaded energetically against the plaintiffs

1828

Current Events

who stated that the Shakers would not take their share in military duties, paid no equivalents and no Taxes &c.

In reply to a request for another postponement he said:

"It is not the Shakers wish, to shun any investigations, but I do not think that they should be kept from day to day, and from year to year in attendance upon the legislature (Legislature) or any other tribunal to disprove the unfounded charges of those who know nothing about them."

"Objection_The committee has been told with emphasis, that the petitions are numerous and respectable and that 56 names are attached to one of the petitions"

"I care not, rejoins the counsel, whether there are 56 or 56 hundred. Nothing in this case, is proved by numbers. As many might be procured to sign a petition, that the Devil should be appointed the keeper of men's consciences, or for any other purpose equally absurd.

Dec. 17
On Dec. 17 the case before the Legislature was proved to have originated in malice and envy and therefore terminated in favor of Believers.

Dec. 19
Pliny Blanchard and Charles Edison of Harvard Mass. (Massachusetts) Come here to consult our Trustees, with regard to what towns they can trade in Garden Seeds

our Ministry return from Lebanon (Lebanon, New Hampshire) bringing with them a propostion for Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) & Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Harvard (Harvard, Massachusetts) & Shirley Mass (Massachusetts) raise money sufficient to clear the involvement on a purchase of land at Port Bay (Port Bay, New York) . Francis Winkley goes to Port Bay (Port Bay, New York) to settle for the purchase

1828

Current Events

Sept 20 Eld. John Lyon & Abraham Perkins having business in Sanbornton (Sanbornton, New Hampshire) gave us a call

Sept. 29
The Ministry returns from Mt. Lebanon N.Y. (New York) bringing the proposition that the societies of Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) Harvard (Harvard, Massachusetts) and Shirley (Shirley, Massachusetts) , raise money sufficient to clear the involvement on a purchase of land at Port Bay N.Y. (New York)

Elder Benjamin Whitcher and John Jewett leave for Harvard Mass (Massachusetts) to confer with the people relative to said proposition.

Oct. 9 Dea. Francis Winkley leaves for Port Bay (Port Bay, New York) via. Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) with a view to settle for the purchase before mentioned

Nov. 29
Joseph Johnson of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) arrives bringing a Remonstrance formed opposing a Bill brought before the Legislature against Believers It is reported that said Bill was signed be[by] the majority of citizens in Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) and towns adjoining.

This effort was made it is supposed to prevent the increase of the testimony concerning Christ's Second Appearance.

Dec. 5
Dea Frances Winkley goes to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) to learn the facts and come to some decision concerning the case pending before the Legislature

N.B. This item belongs on page 48, as it related to the Court

1829

Current Events

July 21.
Richard McNemar arrived here from Union Village O. in company with Daniel Mosely from N Lebanon N.Y. (New York) Richard is the first of the western Believers who has visited the societies East of New Lebanon NY His sojourn has been very interesting and pleasant On the Sabbath he delivered a lengthy discourse upon the foundation principles of Shakerism addressing his views mainly to the large audience which had convened for the occasion especially to hear a western Shaker preach. It was Bro. Richard who first sang the following lines.

"I never will leave the way of God
While I have breath to breathe one word
I never'll forsake the way of God
The world I never will try it.
I'll bear my cross I will be free
Through time and in eternity
For bound by death I never will be,
There is power in Christ to defy it."

This stanza we record as a key to the good brother's sincerity and devotion to the cause which he had espoused.

Dec. 30
The Elders of North Family John Whitcher John Foster & Hannah go to Greensboro Ver. missionarying Board at James Hill's a portion of his family having embraced the Shaker testimony

Note.
Aug. 22
N Family (North Family) 's barn struck by lightning, which penetrated the roof following the timbers thro the center of a mass of hay, but did [not] set the same on fire (A special providence indeed)

1830

Current Events

June 18
The Ministry of New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) make us a visit viz. Eld. Ebenizer Bishop Eld. Rufus Bishop , Eldress Ruth Langdon and Eldress Asenath Clark

Aug. 5
Lucy Williams moves to Office to officiate as Deaconess and Clarissa Foster as associate

Aug. 23
Martha Curtis of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) comes to tarry a while to recuperate in health

Sept. 28
Jesse Lewis Betsy Hastings Anna Crosman and SarahAnn Standish came here from New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) via Harvard (Harvard, Massachusetts) on a visit. Elder Calvin Greene accompanied them to Harvard Mass (Massachusetts) but soon had word to return home, he being an important evidence in a law case

Sixteen persons have been taken into Society this year, eleven of whom were adults
Bro. Fletcher removed from North Family to Church he having been in charge of the farm at that place the past 22 yrs.

1831

Current Events

Jan.
Elijah Brown and Thomas Hoit go to New Lebanon N.Y. (New York) to learn the art of tinning roofs, with the intention of tinning the New Office roof but finally decided that Slate was preferable.

Jan. 6
Lucy Williams is asked to resign office duties to become associate Eldress in Minstry's Order (Ministry)

Sarah Fletcher takes Lucy's place

Sept. The Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) Ministry assume charge of Alfred (Alfred, Maine) and Gloucester (Gloucester, Maine) through advice of Central Ministry at New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York)

Sept. 22
The stone watering trough was adjusted at the foot of the hill about 100 rds. South of the Village in the fork of the main road which branches in four directions. It was purposely placed in such a manner that its four corners should exactly indicate the four cardinal points viz. East, West, North & South.

1832

Current Events

Apr. 14
Abraham Whitney of Shirley Mass. (Massachusetts) came here to purchase a machine for pressing brick While here gave some additional instructions in music vocal and scientific

Nov. 2
The Church raise a belfry on the roof of the Porch attached to the North side of House D in which the large bell was suspended. It weight lbs. Its office is to call the community to meetings meals retiring at night raising in the morning &c. The tin trumpet formerly used for this purpose was laid on the shelf.

Note
July 25
A violent hail storm occurred on July 25, which did much injury to garden vegetables and also to window glass. About 400 panes of glass were broken 380 of which had to be removed, and replaced by new ones.

The New Covenant signed by the Chh members this year

July
A large bell has been purchased & and hung in belfry on large Dwelling to call the Family to Meetings, Meals, and to give notice of the time for rising at morn and retiring at night

Note
The Granite walk between the Veg. garden and Trustees' Office was laid by Eld. Micajah Tucker and two hired stone cutters Eld. Micajah superintended and practically aided in the task

1833

Current Events

Jan. 1. Bro. Seth Y. Wells ofNew Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) First Order came to instruct the youth and children of our society in the common school branches of education he having had much experience as a Teachers elsewhere.

A school was organized in District No. 8 at once The boy pupils attending in the forenoon session the girls in the afternoon

Writing composition was one of the most prominent exercises given under his superivision The pupils were each expected to respond with their best efforts to the requests of the Teacher in this regard Some of us remember that our Teacher was very charitable in his criticisms on some of our most awkward presentations.

He introduced systematized methods, in arranging our various studies, so that those who were teachers Pro. tem. learned therefrom many valuable lessons.

He programmed our lessons time for study, &c, each day stationed a monitor over each class, who should listen to recitations when reading. This method gave the Teacher more leisure to overlook the whole school, and gave the pupil-monitors a chance for improvement, as well.

1833

Current Events

Apr. 15

The old Office was moved on to its destined site in place of one known as Seed Shop The upper rooms of said building were now occupied by the children. The lower loft for Sale work such as preparing gardens Seeds to sell, making feather fans & other salable articles

The basement room on south side was fitted for a spinning Jenny of 80 spindles. On this machine was spun some of the finest textured flannel ever spun by hand in our Society.

Dec. 30.

Elder John Whitcher and Robert Fowle go to Porter Me. (Maine) to preach too people who seem to be under serious religious convictions. Return Jan 9. 1834.

Phenomenal showers

Notes.

On July 25 a fearful electric shower occurred accompanied with hail stones as large as walnuts. Many panes of glass were broken plants in vegetable garden completely cut into fragments Seed onions fell in ranks as men fall in battle in the garden near

Nov. 13

At about 2 o'clock in the morning, a most remarkable phenomenon occurred in the form of shooting stars, which were seemingly discharged from every point in the heavens. Every possible direction. They shot horizontally obliquely & perpendicularly & every other degree between. The phenomenon lasted 3 or 4 hours.

1834

Current Events

Feb. 19
Elder Micajah Tucker is released from Elders' burdens and Joseph Sanborn assumes his duties Bro James Johnson is appointed associate

Apr. 26

Our Dining Room tables having been newly stained and a sett of new chairs made for the dining room by Elder Micajah Tucker & Bro. Joseph Sanborn we occupy them to-day for the first time. "These tables & chairs which were made & have been in constant use for the past 60 years are still in excellent condition_May 1894"

May 16

Icicles a foot long depend from the roofs of our dwellings

July 25

The Ministry return from Sodus Bay N.Y. (New York) via Watervliet (Watervliet, New York) Lebanon N.Y. (New York) & Hancock Mass. (Massachusetts)

Note.

Several companies of brethren and sisters make & receive visits to & from other societies this year

1835

Current Events

July

Harvey L. Eades arrived from South Union Ky. (Kentucky) accompanied by Anthony Brewster of N. Lebanon (New Lebanon, New York) It was something quite new to entertain a brother from that distant society, as he stated that 1500 miles space lay between Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) & Sou. Union (South Union, Kentucky)

Sister Lucy Williams leaves duties of Minstry's Order (Ministry) and Harriet Hastings succeeds her as associate with Eldress Esther Ferren

1835

Nathan Kendall of Harvard Mass. (Massachusetts) comes to confer about the hat business

Note.

April 28. A tornado occurs Buildings fences and trees are prostrated in this vicinity On the sea-coast much damage to shipping is sustained [Entry moved to bottom of pg. 59]

1836

Current Events

May 31

The Ministry leave Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) for New Lebanon N.Y. (New York) taking with them $300.00 in cash from the Chh at Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) as a donation owing to a recent fire at the Hill Family and account of their heavy expenses and journeys to and from the Western Believers for the last two years. They took also a donation of $140 from Eastern Believers & $200. from Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire)

June 9
Elder Amos Stewart of New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) Second Order comes to assist our Brethren in starting a Planing Machine. Leaves for home on the 15th.

July
Miles Beach of New Labanon (New Lebanon, New York) and Rufus Bryant of Pleasant Hill, Ky. (Kentucky) come for a visit escorted by our Ministry. The first Sou.West believers who have travelled so far East. Stephen Merrill and Robert Fowle come from the North Family to the Church to reside Stephen from Trustee's Office and Robt. from Elder's Order Pa. Foster succeeds Eld. Robt & Moses Stevens takes the farm & James Whitcher becomes Trustee

Aug. 10
Heavy frosts on the lowlands. Ice adhered to the scythes used in mowing so tangibly that it could be removed in flakes 12 inches long.

September 26.
A heavy frost, corn, beans potatoes & vines generally destroyed

[Entry moved from bottom of pg. 58] Notes.
1836

The subject of dietetics considerably agitated at date recorded. The presiding Physicians at Lebanon (Lebanon, New Hampshire) and Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) wrote several dissertations on the subject_viz. Garrett K. Lawrence of New Leb. and Thos. Borbett of Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) The vegetarian system was tried by the majority for one year only.

1837

Current Events

The Ministry return from Alfred (Alfred, Maine) and Gloucester Me. (Maine) They bring with them Lydia B. Grant (ae. 23) and Betsy P. Mace (ae. 10 yrs.) as residents in future

A donation of $200.00 given to N. F. (North Family) by Chh.

Apr. 16

Elder Benjamin Whitcher died, ae.

Apr. 17
The Elders of the three families go to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) to attend the memorial services of the deceased They return May 21st

May 6
Bro. David Parker who has been associate [?] for the few years past, quits office duties to become associate minister with Elder Joseph Johnson William Willard is appointed associate Trustee

Robert Fowle and Geo. Clark are appointed to be Family Deacons

May 29

The Porch on North side of the large East Dwelling is moved to the East end of said dwelling for a more commodious Bakery, and also to give place for a larger structure in which to build a new Meeting Room

July 21

A large Porch joining the large dwelling on the North is raised to-day 40 by 43 ft. for a more commodious Meeting Room

1838

Current Events

Mar. 21.
The Ministry and Trustees agree to make a donation of $1000 to the Second Family to help build a brick dwelling for Sisters' Residence. It is now in process of construction. The Chh add for its final completion ($500)

/p>July 12

The New Meeting Room occupied for the first time

Nov.

Bro. David leaves for Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) , but the bridges having been destroyed is compelled to defer his business

Note.

This year the Trustees sold $3194.56. worth of manufactures, medicines herbs &c.

1839

Current Events

Jan. 21

Betsey Lougee goes to Second Family to be Senior Eldress.

Feb. 4
The new Smut Mill is put in operation at Grist & Saw Mill by Thomas Hoit

June 12
The Stone walk leading from Sisters Porch to Spin Shop North Side completed to-day

Frequent visits made by Believers throughout the present year.

132 persons in the Chh at close of year (55 males 77 females)

1840

Current Events

Jan.

First palm leaf table mats manufactured here

Jan. 4

The snow lies in drifts in door yard about 6 ft in depth

Feb. 6

Ninety five sleighs pass our village to-day. In 3 days 220 sleighs pass as a testimonial to superb sleighing

Mar. 20

John Whitcher goes to a Methuen Mass. (Massachusetts) to gets hats formed for Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) brethren. Returns with 220 hats, at 6 Â½ cents apiece

June 20

John Clark builds a new water wheel for the Tannery a perpendicular shaft with cast iron tubes

Public meetings well attended this Summer.

Sept. 14
David Parker goes from Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) to Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) to attend court Sept. 26

Thomas Corbett & co. survey roads between Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) and Meredith (Meredith, New Hampshire)

Oct. 10
The Carding Mill is repaired. A new flume put under ground, and a new cast-iron piston wheel adjusted in the Mill

Dec. 1840

The church is comprised of 132 persons 55 brethren 75 sisters including youth and minors_

1841

Current Events

Apr. 5
Report of a Fire at Alfred Me. (Maine) occurring in their saw-mill reaches us. Loss ($1000)Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) gives $100 as a donation.

June 5.
The Wood House 40 x 80 ft. raised

June 6
Bro. James Johnson is appointed Senior Elder in the Church. John Graham appointed associate William Tripure and Geo. Clark Family deacons

Aug. 13
The Laundry chimnies built this week

A water cistern is being constructed under Laundry floor as a reservoir for rain water with which to supply the Steam boiler engine

Nov. 1
All foreign drinks abandoned viz. cider, tea and coffee and the practices of eating pork, as well Other herbs are substituted for tea viz. "Meadow Sweet." Liberty Tea &c. Substitute for foreign Coffee Roasted peas, brown bread crust roasted rye & Aven's root.

Nov. 4
The pieces of new Road passing through the " Wyburn Lot" is finished to-day The North row of our buildings painted this "Fall" Chestnuts & beech-nuts unusually plenty.

1842

Current Events

July 27
A hail storm occurs which damages vegetation, and also demolishes many panes of window glass. Probably 200 panes of glass were broken

Oct. 9th
Public meetings closed

Oct. 25
An abundant harvest has been secured wholly without the aid of hired help. The blessing of God seemed to rest on our labors, and especially on the Brethren's proposition to do their own work (with one or two exceptions viz.

Two hundred and seventy nine rods of wall & 175 rods of ditching were performed by hired help (but they boarded themselves.)

The Carding Mill was shingled on South Side & also South Side of roof at a comparatively small expense

A new picket fence with hewn stone posts was built around Ancient Chh.Meeting House

October 1842
The Moore House was moved from its former site near the North Family west side of public road It was thoroughly cleansed revised and refitted for Dea John Kaime & family of Barnstead N.H. (New Hampshire) who had agreed to move into said house Dea. Kaime having embraced the testimony wished to live nearer the Believers.

1843

Current Events

Apr. 3
There is now four feet of snow on a level in the woods, while the roads are impassable On Apr. 1st It snowed all day, subsequently drifting in many places to the depth of 8 or 10 ft. The Office fence is completely concealed by the snow. The gate posts at North end of Yellow Building were entirely hidden so that teams passed easily over them. This condition is unprecedented in the memory of the oldest inhabitants

May 19.
John Graham goes to Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) to tarry a while for his health

July 1
Priscilla Lavoy ae. 6 yrs. of Canada came here from Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) with the Ministry She brought with her the malady disease termed Erysipelas the first of the kind ever witnessed here.

July 23
Sarah Fletcher removes from Office into family after twelve years of faithful service in that department. Susan Fuller Betsey Hastings & Hester Ann Adams assume Office duties

Sept. 26
A Caravan passes our village consisting of four large elephants two camels beside a numerous train of cages filled with wild animals There were 20 carriages & 30 span of horses in line on the road

1844

Current Events

Jan.
Quite a number of accessions to the Chh by youth and children were made the first part of present years. Names & ages recorded in Centennial Record of names &c

June 4
Emeline Kimball is appointed caretaker of children at East House. Myra Bean associate caretaker is appointed to Office

Nov. 12
Dorothy A. Durgin moves to the East House as associate caretaker of children with Emeline Kimball

Dec. 10
An addition to the North end of the Wash House to introduce a steam engine and boiler

1846

Current Events

Jan.
The steam engine at Laundry is in operation for the first test, and laundry machinery responds The cistern in the chamber of Mangle Room filled with water which is heated scalding hot or to 212 deg. according to Fahrenheit's thermometer

Jan. 2
Charles Main the pioneer Adventist to this place, removed from Lowell to Boston to become a member of the North Family

Jan. 22.
A tremendous gale at night. Doors burst open sheet lead stripped from the roofs

Mar. 9.
Missionaries from North Family Elder John Kaime Eldress Maria Whitcher go to New Bedford (New Bedford, Massachusetts) Elder Jesse Danforth & Chas. Main to Athol Mass. (Massachusetts)

Jan. 5 to Feb. 17 Mar. [Entry moved from above to maintain chronological order] Adventist gathering._ James S. Kaime Chas. Main Eldress Maria Whitcher & Philana Greeley start on a missionary tour to Springfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Return with Edward Fitts & family the [?]th inst.

Aug. 3
An addition to North Family Dwelling House 46 x 36.

Sept. 17
Enoch Jacobs of Ohio an Adventist preacher and Editor of the "Day Star" arrives. One issue of said paper is to be printed here

Sept. 19.
1300 copies have been struck off to-day. This is the first paper ever printed in this township

1846

Current Events

Oct. 13
William Leonard Eliza Babbett and Susan Channel of Harvard Mass. (Massachusetts) call here on business. Bro. William secures about 1500 trees (maples) to carry home

Oct. 24
An aqueduct (iron pipe) is adjusted to day in North Field in place of the hollow log aqueduct now badly decayed. The aqueduct extends from School House Lane to the small reservoir in North field

Nov. 19
Peter A. Foster sets the meadow North of Ingall's woods with cranberry vines, (called John Wadleigh 's Meadow The vines were obtained from Shell bark pond ) Gilmanton N.H. (New Hampshire) the day previous.

Nov. 21
The Brethren complete the job of tunneling a ditch for an aqueduct or rather a subterranean passage It being about 25 feet deep the digging could be performed by this method much easier than in any other way. The lead pipe used was about an inch in diameter. The ditch is completed about an inch in diameter. The ditch is completed closed and water flows through the aqueduct to-day

Dec. 7
Bro. Geo Peavey pays us a visit this evening Entertains us by reading a journal which he kept while on his western tour.

Notes
Mar. 14
In consequence of a heavy rain fall on Mar. 14 the Mer river rose at Haverhill Mass. (Massachusetts) 20 ft. Loss of property on the Penobscot $1,000000)

Mar. 20
Twelve men with 6 yoke of oxen are employed in breaking roads

1847

Current Events

Jan 15
Elder John Whitcher [end of snippet to copy] & Eld. John Kaime leave for Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) to attend a Convention of Ministers, before whom they will discuss the subject of Shakerism

Jan 27.
The brethren return brining report of a very pleasant season

Mar. 3.
James Brackett and Sullivan Wright go to Hanover N.H. (New Hampshire) after grain via. Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Return the 6th instant.

May 3
The Brethren are engaged in setting an apple orchard in the West Oil-nut yard adjacent to Second Family's apple orchard. Set 55 trees.

1848

Current Events

Mar. 8.
Bro. Otis Sawyer of Alfred Me. (Maine) comes to make a brief tarry Returns with a Planing Machine & Broom Machine also.

Apr. 2.
Eld. Jesse Danforth moves from North to Second Family to associate with Elder Eli Kidder in Elders duties instead of John Scott resigned. John Kaime becomes Sen. Elder at the North Family. Robert Shephard appointed associate.

Aug. 11
The potato rot makes its appearance.

Aug. 28
Another Story is added to Clothiers' Mill, and put into two Power looms. (Later sold for ($135.75)

Aug. 29
Nearly all the Society at Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) take a free ride as said Society owns shares in the R.R.

Oct.
Elder Otis Sawyer released from Minstry's Order (Ministry) to take the Trusteeship in the Church at Gloucester Me. (Maine) Ransom Gilman of Alfred Me. (Maine) appointed as associate in trust

Apostate Shaker's, "Petition"
Current Notes of Court Trial

1848

Current Notes of Court Trial

Dec. 4
Franklin Monnroe with 409 others, presented a petition to the Legislature, praying for the passage of laws, abridging the right of Believers taking away the property of those who might join them.

Several other petitions of apostates were also presented. viz. Mary Dyer, James M. Otis and others. These petitioners seemed willing to do all in their power to misrepresent the character of Believers, who were accused by them of the very sins of which they were guilty and for which they lost their confidence and union with the Church

Dec. 8
The petitions against the Shakers were referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. The hearing commenced on the 8th Dec. but did not continue long, it being post-poned till the 13th inst.

Meantime the Judiciary Committee was empowered by the House (House of Representatives) to send for persons and papers.

General Franklin Pierce of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) and Josiah Quincy of Rumney N.H. (New Hampshire) appeared for the Believers. Toward the close of the Examination Ira Perley appears in our behalf

John S. Wells of Exeter N.H. (New Hampshire) appeared for the Petitioners

Notes—Continued

His counsellors were James M. Otis , Samuel Garland and Horace Folsom the last two mentioned were seceders from Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) The first from Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire)

Counsellors for the defendants David Parker and Caleb M. Dyer . Chairman of Committee Moses T. Norris , of Pittsfield N.H. (New Hampshire)

Six members of the Chh. at Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) received a subpona [peter - fix spelling] to repair to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) and be ready when summoned, to appear in Court as witnesses Viz. Thomas Corbett M. E. Hastings ,. Eliza Johnson Mary Whitcher Huldah Garland & Myra A. Bean

A few days later others were summoned from Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire) Viz. Eld. Joseph Johnson Eld. Abraham Perkins Eldress Harriet Hastings Eld. John Whitcher , Eld. John Kaime , Peter A. Foster , William Dennett , Joseph Willoughby & Marinda Clifford . Those summoned from Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Viz. Eld. John Lyon , Jason Kidder , Samuel Barker, Samuel Brownson Jerub Dyer & Edward Cummings

The evenings of the 13, 14, 15 21 & 22 were occupied in the hearing of witnesses— generally from 6-30 to 10 o'clock P.M.

The investigation was suspended from the 16th to the 21st. This interim was gladly spent at home.

The Brethren were in attendance at the examinations of both plaintiffs and defendants.

1848

Notes_Continued

Bro. David Parker thought the testimonies too revolting for modesty too endure, and thus the sisters were excused from being present at court until their testimonies were elicited

The galleries throughout the trial were crowded with spectators of both sexes.

The names of witnesses who testified against the Shakers, as follows:
Joseph Garland
James M. Otis
Josiah Magoon
Horace Folsom
Simeon Garland
Samuel Garland
James Whitcher
Daniel Greene [ Green]
Gardner Willard
James Partridge
Hiram Clifford
B Manning
Dorothy E Manning
Theresa B. Willard
Mary Cummings
Fifteen persons all save one, ( B Manning) were seceders from the communities of Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) & Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) .

The third evening of the investigation was wholly occupied by James M. Otis as also was the greater portion of the Sixth by same speaker

In his testimony he unfortunately perjured himself by affirming that in a previous court, when he was a professed

Notes_Continued

Shaker he gave a false statement with regard to the mob affray by Sarah Hillsgrove Sen. and her accomplices.

Said, "I was advised by David Parker and others to testify falsely and was selected by the Shakers for a witness because I can fix up a pretty good story." This affirmation however, served in no wise to strengthen his present testimony or to honor his character in the estimation of the Court.

On the contrary, his statements were pretty roughly handled and stigmatized by the Shakers counsel.

During the investigation J. M. Otis sat directly behind his lawyer, except when occupying the stand as witness and nearly facing his former companions in Shaker life. His countenance showed by its livid appearance his deep regret for the false course he had taken, for there had been in his early manhood a genuineness of purpose and integrity that the friends of his youth among Shakers could not question. Mother Ann 's words were applicable to his case, as to others, that "poor man in the flesh is always in danger"

Dec. 25
Six brethren and six sisters were summoned to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to attend the Court, leaving home at 8 A.M. In the afternoon, a party of two brethren and five sisters were summoned for the same purpose. Arriving at Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) at 3. o'clock P.M.

1848

Notes_Continued

Dec. 25
The Shaker Delegates at Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) now number 22. 17 from Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) 5 from Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire)

On the evening of present date, four Shaker were called upon the stand to testify.

The sisters attended the investigation for the first time and occupied a seat facing the Committee, very near their Counsel's table

Twenty six Shakers dined at the Eagle hotel.

Dec. 26 Tues. eve. 8 witnesses testified, five of whom were Shaker sisters three—brethren.

Wed. 27 From 6-30 P.M. till 11 P.M. eleven witnesses testified.—9 of whom were Shaker.

From reference to past records Caleb and David were able to state how much property had been brought into the Church during the past twenty five years.

Witnesses examined for the Shakers were N. W. Westgate lawyer, Dr. John Clough of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Rev. Wm. Patrick & Dr. J. M. Harper of Canterbury, N.H. (New Hampshire) Dr. J. M. Crosby of Manchester N.H. (New Hampshire) Dr. R. P. J. Tenney of Pittsfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Dr. Thomas Chadbourne & Dr. William Prescott of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) John T. G. Foster of Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) appeared as a witness also.

Shaker witnesses: viz. Eldress Harriet Hastings Elder Joseph Johnson of the Ministry

1848

Notes_Continued

Other witnesses viz.
David Parker
Peter A. Foster
Wm. Dennett
Joseph Willoughby
Thomas Corbett M.D.

Three names not called upon
Marcia E. Hastings
Huldah Garland
Eliza Johnson
———————————————
Mary Whitcher
Myra A. Bean
Marinda Clifford

Witnesses from Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) as follows
Elder John Lyon
Samuel Brownson
Samuel Barker
Jason Kidder
Caleb M. Dyer
& Jerub Dyer

Daniel Greene, a youth, testified that when a child among the Shaker he was often severely whipped &c.

For three weeks in succession a dozen or more Shaker—made a temporary home in Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) where we were treated with marked civility and respect by the respectable and wealthy.

The Sabbaths were spent at home meantime—

Dec. 30
Saturday morning we breakfasted in Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) for the last time returning home in company with Elder Grove Blanchard Eld. Orville Dyer and Eld. Timothy Randlett who attended religious Services with us on the Sabbath following

1848

Notes_Continued

The principle allegations against the Shakers were, as follows: Abuse to the aged & to children placed among them, living unchaste lives thus falsifying our profession. Belief in inspiration and spirit intercourse, &c.

Esq. Wells . had at hand a printed Pamphlet entitled "Youth's Guide" from which he sarcastically read 18 stanzas of a poem printed therein, severely emphasizing the line, "Its riches, husbands wives and farms" &c as particularly absurd.

On the afternoon of the 29th December the arguments of the Counsel were made before the whole House (House of Representatives) by a committee of the whole, including, The Governor, Council, Senate & Representatives The large hall was crowded to its utmost limits, in gallery as well as on the floor below.

By special vote of the House (House of Representatives) , the Shakers (30 in number) were admitted to the floor of the House (House of Representatives) .

General Franklin Pierce , the Shaker Counsel, occupied the rostrum three hours & 11 minutes, in pleading for his clients. His plea was as eloquent as vigorous. In this, he took a retrospect of occurrences among the Shakers over a period of fifty six years. So ably, did he handle every subject therein, that what was seeming guilt to the multitude, became innocence, and a final acquittal of the charges proferred against them

1848

Notes_Continued

The speaker availed himself of a copy of a large ancient bible (which was loaned from our Society) It lay open on his table, during a portion of his discourse which he said was an entirely novel circumstance, for a lawyer to make his plea from a bible

The ground taken for us was, that our doctrines were based on the bible scripture, that the allegations of cruelty to aged and youth, of licentiousness, or wickedness in any form, were false and no proof had been produced to substantiate any of the base charges proferred against us. That the Shakers were a christian people, that no law could constitutionally be passed, especially effective on account of the Shakers belief That there was no need of special legislation on our behalf, and that the Legislature had no right to interfere therewith.

Lawyer Pierce admitted in his Plea, that he had no more faith in the Shaker religion than his opponent, Esq. Wells , but he would defend the right of conscience and religious belief to the extent of his abilities.

John S. Wells the plaintiffs' counsel next took the floor occupying upward of three hours in making his plea.

He urged that a bill be passed in accordance with the prayer of the petitioners.

1848

Notes_Continued

This lawyer seemed as completely inspired with the sentiment, purpose and aim of his petitioners or clients, as the best media for spirit agency we ever saw for Indian Arab or other more powerful spirits who have influenced our instruments in times past.

He was a man of pleasing address, and evidently tried hard to gain the sympathy of the House (House of Representatives) , and Spectators generally. but, he spared no pains in vilifying and abusing our witnesses, our Institution and even our lawyer Gen. Franklin Pierce . Bro. David Parker was his choicest target & to him, his most violent sarcasm was aimed: He frequently vented his scorn by Shaking his fist in his face, meanwhile calling him the Shaker's God" or using some more objectionable epithet.

Meantime, he admitted that he had no doubt but that the Shaker sisters, could they act independently or uninfluenced by David Parker , would treat him kindly, should he chance to call at Shaker Village (Shaker Village, New Hampshire) , and, even tenderly, were he ill.

He made solemn mockery of our belief in inspiration, our orders, revelations, publications and every thing pertaining to Shakerism in a most sarcastic manner. But we will accord him the credit of being true to the cause he espoused as well as faithful to his clients. (Finis.)

1848

Current Events

Mar. 7.
Elder Joseph Myrick of Harvard Mass. (Massachusetts) arrives, His main business is to teach engraving letters on marble, granite, &c The marble column at Pleasant Grove" was engraved by his dictation.

Mar. 8
Otis Sawyer of Gloucester Me. (Maine) arrives. Intends to get a Broom machine & Planing Machine as well.

July
James S. Kaime goes to Lebanon (Lebanon, New Hampshire) Watervliet (Watervliet, New York) & other societies to get information about tinning roofs.

Oct. 24
The "United States Mail" is received and distributed at our "Trustees' Office." ( Samuel Morrell— Postmaster)

Post Office at present date is.

Shaker Village (Shaker Village, New Hampshire)
Mer. Co.
N.H. (New Hampshire)

1849.
Notes
Eight and one half acres of intervale land was purchased in Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) for a garden in which to raise medicinal herbs ($900.)

A new Twisting Machine built in Manchester N.H. (New Hampshire) purchased—Cost $200.00

Fruit in Col. Jno. Clough 's orchard purchased by the Chh. We pay by harvesting the same

1849
The first Sewing Machine was purchased & operated by the hand instead of the foot. Three Sisters go to Lowell (Lowell, Massachusetts) house to learn to operate it & two machinists come from thence to adjust the same. (Whole cost $150.00.

1849

Notes—Continued

Jan. 2

At this date a majority of the Committee of 1848 reported a bill to the House (House of Representatives) , against the Shakers

The Minority of committee consisting of Moses Norris jun. Levi Chamberlain G. Y. Sawyer and F. F. Lane issued a report against the passage of any law affecting the Shakers which was entered, and can be found on the Journal of the House (House of Representatives) .

The bill against Believers however, passed the House (House of Representatives) by a large majority.

The Senate, after subsequently listening to an able, powerful speech by the Hon. Harry Hibbard (President of the Senate.) concluded to postpone the Bill indefinitely by a unanimous vote.

An attempt was now made, to introduce another similar Bill in the House (House of Representatives) , but it was all to no purpose.

Names of Judiciary Committee as follows: Moses Norris of Pittsfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Edwin R. Locke of Portsmouth N.H. (New Hampshire) Levi Chamberlain of Keene N.H. (New Hampshire) Geo. S. Sawyer of Nashua N.H. (New Hampshire) Asa Fowler of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) Andrew L. Hersey of Tuftonborough N.H. (New Hampshire) Joshua Atwood of Pelham N.H. (New Hampshire) Walter Ingalls of Sanbornton N.H. (New Hampshire) Bard P. Page of Bradford N.H. (New Hampshire) Farnum L. Lanes of Walpole N.H. (New Hampshire)

1849

Notes about Court concluded.

In the Court here reported much was said, alleging that the Shakers did not read the bible &c

Our curiosity was awakened to investigate the subject at home, and to compute the number of bibles owned in the Church at Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) & also at Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) owned 158 copies of bible Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) owned 143 copies of bible 158 + 143 = Total of 301 copies

1849
Current Events
Feb. 15

The first sewing machine was purchased and put in operation in the Church. The needle bed was was [Written in margins:] "was" appears twice. horizontal and only long straight seams of fulled cloth could be sewed—It was operated by the hand in turning a crank the operator being obliged to stand while sewing Three sisters had been to Lowell Mass (Massachusetts) to witness its operation Two machinists were employed to set it up and give instructions in operating it Whole cost including expenses with patent right $150.00.

Mar. 21.

The little Pamphlet entitled " Pilate's Narrative" was printed at this date, by Elder Henry C. Blinn & co. (company)

Apr.

A Peach Orchard Set East of Turner's Mill" 240 trees—" Mill Orchard"

Apr. 17th

Public meetings closed on account of the annoying intrusion of apostates

May.

A second edition of "Millennial Chh" printed at N.Y. (New York) at Robert White's. The sheets of which were folded, sewed and bound here.

1849

Current Events

(July 11 Mer. registers 97 deg. in shade 106° in sun)
July 28.

Report of a disastrous fire at Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) reaches us. It was occasioned by leaving the mill in operation for grinding Indigo while its manager was absent.

It is stated, that the brethren were all absent at Canaan N.H. (New Hampshire) making hay at the time.

The friendly neighbors, seeing the fire, were soon on the ground, rendering all the assistance in their power. There being no engine at hand, and but few ladders, it was considered almost a miracle, that the Mill with another building, were the only structures destroyed.

July 30

A little "well" was digged at the "Clothiers Mill" by Elder Benjamin H. Smith & co. (company>) from whence flows pure Spring water, at present date (June 1894)

Aug. 3

A Fast is proclaimed by Pres. Zachary Taylor as a day of special fasting and prayer, that the scourge of Cholera may be removed from the nation. The whole Society met at the Pleasant Grove for prayers at 10. A.M. agreeably to the request an earnest petition for rain was offered at same date Previous to said Prayer Meeting we had experienced no rain from June 4th to date specified (Aug. 3) Between the 4th & 13th of June we had 7.5 inches rain fall

Dec. 5

Our herd of swine are all disposed of (by Sale) to day.

1850

Current Events

Aug. 24

David Parker returns from Ohio in company with Caleb. M. Dyer of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) where On his way went to Groveland N.Y. (New York) where he purchased a tract of land on which to raise broom corn

A tract of land was purchased on "Concord Intervale" for Lovage raising The land & buildings cost ($2000.00.)

Apr. 28.

Rain falls 3 ½ in on a level The Mer. river renders the Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) intervals impassable,

On account of some unusual agitation abroad excited by the Shaker Trial of yrs 1848 & 9, several of the most noted of the House of Representatives two Senators one of the counsel with others were invited to visit our District school as well as other dwellings in our home.

Note.

The protracted rains of May & June have ruined 30 tons of hay.

The invitation was accepted by the persons whose names we give below: Dana Woodman of New Hampton N.H. (New Hampshire) Councillor
James Bachelder of Marlboro N.H. (New Hampshire) Senator
A. P. Hoit of Bridgewater N.H. (New Hampshire) Senator
Dyer H. Sanborn of Washington N.H. (New Hampshire) Representative
Jared Perkins of Winchester N.H. (New Hampshire) Representative
John F. Adams of Stratham N.H. (New Hampshire) Representative
D. F. Richardson of Hanover N.H. (New Hampshire) Representative
Dr. Josiah Eastman of Hampstead N.H. (New Hampshire) Representative
Arba Kidder of Keene N.H. (New Hampshire) Representative
Ebenezer Proctor of Alstead N.H. (New Hampshire) Representative
George Merriam of Springfield Mass (Massachusetts) Publisher of Webster 's Quarto Dictionary

1851

Current Events

June 20

The apple trees are attacked by the Palmer worm which destroys both leaves and fruit. This pest came to stay as the future will show.

Note—

Sept. 15 1851 Dudley Leavitt author of Leavitt's Almanac deceased in his ninetieth year at Meredith N.H. (New Hampshire) —some two and one half miles from Center Harbor (Center Harbor, New Hampshire) .

Sept.

Water was conducted in "Trading Room" at "Trustees' Office" by aqueduct for the first time.

Note.

On Dec. 6. 1851 John Wadleigh stated that fifty years ago, a snow storm occurred on Nov. 14 the snow of which, did not thaw for 30 days.

At present date, we can record 49 days of unintermitting cold, and very little thawing in the sun.

1852

Current Events

Mar. 20

Eld. H. C. Blinn appointed associate Elder with Elder Robert Fowle in place of Wm Dennett

Shaker Hymns, with music attached printed at Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) this Spring. The first collection of the kind set in type.

July 3

Bro. David Parker purchased a four-horse lumber wagon in Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) with brakes to the wheels, similar to car brakes agreeably to his own suggestion to relieve the horses' burden. To be used when ascending and descending these hilly country roads.

The stone fence East Side road from Office to stone watering trough built by Jno. Nutting

Aug. 13

An unprecedented hail storm occurred at about 3 o clock P.M. breaking many panes of glass as well as injuring the gardens near us.

Aug. 22

A disastrous hail storm occurred at Cambridge Mass. (Massachusetts) Large elms were uprooted, a car of merchandise was lifted from the track and carried some distance It is estimated that $100,000 will not cover the damages sustained. in the vicinity of the storm.

Sept 24

The Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) boys take a ride to Andover N.H. (New Hampshire) with Eld J. S. Kaime

Oct. 24. 1852

D A D. [Written in margins:] [full name:Dorothy Ann Durgin] appointed associate Eldress with sister M C H [Written in margins:] [full name: Marcia C. Hastings

Nov. 4.

An alarm of fire (the fourth on record,) which occurred in No. 8—Infirmary, caused by putting a stick of wood on the floor which had been in the stove a short time previous. The patient thought that she had made it safe to leave as she discovered no signs of fire upon it.

The fire was soon discovered and extinguished

1853
Current Notes
Jan.
Feb.
Mar.
Oct.
The Palmer worm is still an unwelcome guest At our East Orchard where we formerly harvest over 1000 bushels of apples we obtain but, 60 bush. No apples for drying this "Fall"

Nov.
The Trustees obtained a "grant" of a Granite quarry a mile or two Sou. West from Church of Geo. Peverly a near neighbor, and two brethren with hired help during Summer and Autumn were employed in blasting the same.

Several teams were employed during the winter in drawing the blocks of stone secured at the quarry which were subsequently used for under-pinning of buildings

1854

Current Notes

Jan. 31

The Ministry receive a gift of a covered sleigh for the first time. It was manufactured in Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) by Abott & Co.. Was furnished with double runners & drawn by a span of horses.

Feb. 21
The Small Pox reported in Gilmanton N.H. (New Hampshire) Precautions were used here, by vaccination

March 13
A man named Shaver calls to exhibit an artificial bird 1 1/2 in. long, that would perform four distinct tunes & then fall into its little nest, while the cover of the same immediately closed. It was the artistic work of a foreigner

July 21
Eld. Robert Fowle who has recently been to Groveland N.Y. (New York) Eld. R. & Eld. Orville unfortunately thrown from a carriage while at Hancock Mass (Massachusetts) , both receiving serious injuries. Their horse being frightened by a sudden clap of thunder tried to escape for his life and broke from team and harness in hot haste.

Sept 9

A ruinous drought prevails. Many persons in our vicinity have lost entire crops & cut their corn into fodder.

Sept. 20

Eight feet square of one of our caneberry beds was measured from which was obtained 18 qts. At this ratio an acre might produce 360 bushels and average ($2.00) a bushel, Query. "Are not meadows profitable?

1856

Current Notes

Feb.
Thus far, this has been the most severe Winter known in New England. From the last of December till the present date there has been but one day in which snow melted in the sun.

Dec. 22
There gave been about 50 accessions to our Society within a few months.—mostly children

1857

Current Notes

Jan. 1
Thomas Sayles of England deceased ae. 85 yrs. Had sojourned in our Society about six years. Had passed most of his time as a Soldier. Was at Waterloo (Waterloo, Belgium) under Napoleon Bonaparte & had developed through suffering and toil a peculiarly indomitable character.

Jan. 23.
This is the coldest day on record in our generation On the 20th inst. at Sunset a kind of vapor resembling a swarm of bees was seen and North of sun a sun-dog as it is termed, was observed by several persons This phenomenon was followed [by] a blinding storm Mercury congealed in the bulb.

1858

Current Notes

Mar. 10
Bro. William Dennett , in assisting others to take down an old barn at the Moore's place fell from one of the beams by losing balance while trying to detach therefrom a heavy timber. The skull was fractured in the fall, and other serious injuries sustained He was removed in an unconscious condition and carried at once to the Infirmary. The best medical aid was secured but the best in his case, proved futile, for he survived only a few hours. Was 39 yrs. of age & A devoted consecrated brother who had filled with integrity several responsible positions in the Church

Memorial services observed on the Sabbath

Apr. 4.
Public meeting opens for the first time this season.

Apr. 29.
Frost this morning. In spite of this the Peach trees which were in full bloom were uninjured, and we realized a full crop of this delightful fruit in Sept. following

June 25
Mer: registered 98 degs. at noon in the shade

June 27
Mer: registered 100 degs. at noon in the shade

1858

Current Notes

June 3—
A hail storm—Jun. 6, the ground froze an inch in depth—cucumber plants had grown (quite large)

Aug. 25
Plenty of small fruits this season. Raspberries and Blackberries in abundance. Many bushels of the last named were harvested from "Bean Hills." 8 bushels in one day while Mer. registered 90 degrees in shade at 6 o'clock P.M.

Sep. 9.
Fifteen bushels of blackberries from "Bean Hills" today.

Sept. 11.
A comet was visible at 7 o'clock P.M. in the North West and again at 4 o'clock A.M.

Oct 1
Apples froze on the trees in several places, and many bushels were rendered worthless.

Nov. 7
Elder John Kaime who has been appointed to the Eldership at Poland Me. (Maine) delivers his farewell sermon taking for his text "If I go not away the Comforter will not come unto you"

Nov. 8
Leaves this morning with Elder Joseph Bracket of Me. (Maine) (Returns to Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) Aug. 14 1864.)

1859

Current Notes

Jan. 17.
Janette Forest Sen. died at North Family of Consumption ae.

Feb. 22
Harriet A. Johns . ae. 13 yrs with her brother Charles Johns ae. 9 yrs. were taken into the Church

Apr. 9
Frank Johns ae. 3 yrs was accepted also.

May 30
Jesse Kimball was hired to take down the old barn at the C. Commences the job to-day

June 2
Austin Howarth admitted to the Church

The Soil froze an inch in depth. cucumber plants not injured quite thrifty

June 8
A company of visitors go to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) viz. Ichabod Whittaker James V. Chase Olive M. Libby A C Stickney Emily F Hall and Fannie E. Hall

June 27.
The brick arch in Cook Room removed to admit a "Cooking Range" copper boiler water pipes and so forth.

July 4
Mer. reg. 54 degrees.

1860

Current Notes

Jan. 10
News of a shocking catastrophe at Lawrence Mass (Massachusetts) One of the large Factories fell in, burying more than 1000 operatives in the ruins. It subsequently took fire, and consumed some who might have been rescued.

—A new knitting machine for sale hose purchased at Franklin N.H. (New Hampshire) Inventor, Walter Aiken "

Robert McKerley of Loudon N.H. (New Hampshire) hired for Shoemaker employed at Red Building for said purpose

A new "Sewing Machine" by "Ladd & Webster" has been purchased for stitching palm-leaf mats & other heavy goods.

Dr. Smith and daughter of Louisville Ky. (Kentucky) comes bring a letter of recommendation from Rufus Bryant of "Pleasant Hill"—The Dr. is a slave holder has often been employed by the Shakers in Kentucky as a physician. The doctor and his daughter leave for Pittsfield (Pittsfield, Massachusetts) the 28th inst.

Jan. 10.
News of a shocking catastrophe at Lawrence Mass. (Massachusetts) One of the large Factories fell in burying more than 1000 operatives in the ruins, which subsequently taking fire consumed some victims who otherwise might have escaped unharmed.

Note
A new boiler for Laundry engine purchased this year

1860

Current Events

Feb. 27.
Bro. Joseph Woods resigns the duties of the Eldership, and assumed the Family Deacons' burdens Benjamin H Smith succeeds him as associate Elder. Bro. Thomas Hoit resigns deacons' duties.

Apr. 16
Orville Forbes moves to Second Family & James V. Chase takes his place as Farm deacon. Andrew Thompson returns to the Chh. To take charge of Vegetable garden

Apr. 17
Betsey Hastings moves from the Chh. At Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) to the Second Family at Alfred Me. (Maine)

May 15
Sarah A. Crooker moves from Church to North Family as associate with Eldress Hannah K. Kaime in place of Mary A. Gillispie , who goes to be associate with Eldress Hester A. Adams in the Ministry of Alfred Me. (Maine)

Sept. 20
Daniel and Mary Cochran of Salem, Mass. (Massachusetts) Come to take their daughter Elizabeth by force who fled to the barn and concealed herself in the hay as she had no desire to leave her present home. The parents next came to the Church to get their four younger children whom they had previously indentured

1860

Current Notes

(Sept. 23 Gen'l Tom Thumb attends Public Worship.)

Failing in this plan they took the Mail team for Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) & James S. Kaime went to Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) immediately to consult a lawyer A few days later, in September

Sept. 24.
A party of Shakers was summoned by a writ of "Habeus Corpus" to appear at Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) in behalf of the Cochran family. Names of party summoned; as follows: Elder Henry C. Blinn Henry J. Durgin Robt. Shepard Hannah K. Kaime Dorothy A. Durgin and the five Cochran children. These last named, were given over to the parents, regardless of the indentures signed, (by the Hon. Judge Fowler.)

The parents with the children, proceeded at once to Salem (Salem, Massachusetts) , and our party came back minus their youthful charge.

Sept. 25
The Cochran children summoned to Court. Judge Fowler decides for them to be taken into custody of parents.

Oct. 6
Eldress Harriet Hastings released from Minstry's Order (Ministry) Eld. Mary Whitcher succeeds her and Eldress Dorothy A. Durgin is appointed associate Zillah Randlett becomes Eldress pro. tem. Joanna Kaime associate Eldress.

Note
Oct. 1
Apples froze on the trees in many places and several bushels were rendered worthless.

Note.
(Oct. 28 Public meetings closed thro' Winter)

Mar. 1861
Fourteen Students—Methodists are entertained at Trustees' Office"—and left a very pleasant impression as friends to virtue— M. E. H.

Current Notes
1861

Cold Friday occurred on Feb. 8th Mer. Reg. 31 deg. below zero, a la Fahrenheit

Jan. 4
A Fast is proclaimed by President James Buchanan who exhorts the Nation to pray that God would sustain the Constitution of these United States and prevent the terrible horrors of war, which is now pending in consequence of a Secession threatened by Southern Leaders. ( Robt. Shepard app. Postmaster/ May 6, 1861.)

Note
1600 doz. brooms made this yr. at the Church

Apr. 13
The commencement of U.S. War. 70,000 men are summoned to be ready for action for Pres. Lincoln

"A donation of $500.00 made to Gloucester (Gloucester, Maine) Ch (Gloucester Church) , as they are in debt $14,000. All societies have cast in enough to make $4000.00." HBL Mar. 1861

(May 12 1861 Public meetings open)

1862

June 28.
Carter E. Cate of Loudon N.H. (New Hampshire) is present at Singing School. By invitation, narrates proceedings at the "World's Peace Jubilee" which he attended with his brother Wm. Cate .

Brethren's tax on road this year ($100.) 10 cts. An hour each.

July 27
Harriet Miller , a professional Elocutionist of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) arrives, accompanied by two of her male pupils of Prov. R.I. (Rhode Island) —Brown University—

July 31
William Fiske & wife of Fisherville (Fisherville, New Hampshire) call for a brief visit. They had previously very kindly entertained our sisters, who attended the Teacher's Institute in that town last February viz. E. A. S. & A. C.S.

Aug. 1
(The first P Master in E Canterbury (E Canterbury, New Hampshire) R Shepard . Takes the oath of office May 1861.)

Dr. Charles A Guilmette calls, to instruct and drill our Choir in music.

The Mt. Leb. (Mount Lebanon, New Hampshire) min. arrive, wishing to witness the Doctor's methods of instruction are in attendance this eve.

No. of members 1861 44 m— 78 f.— Boys 14— Girls 7.

Oct. 1861
The marble stone at the Fountain removed. It had been up 19 yrs.

1862

Current Notes

S. T. Thomas' Narrow loom bought Feb. 11, 1862 Placed at Clothiers' Mill'

Apr.
An extension freshet prevails. The Merrimac river is so swollen that roads in its vicinity are impassable with wagons & other conveyances. Travellers are compelled to take passage in a boat to get from East Concord (East Concord, New Hampshire) to the City. Barns and bridges have floated down stream.

Aug.
Bro. David Parker leaves for South Union Kentucky Is defeated however, in consequence of the War of the rebellion, now in progress.

(Oct. 5
Public meetings closed for the season)

Nov. 7
Records the account of the pounds of cheese made in the Church this Summer (viz. 4116 lbs.)

Nov. 9
A thief enters the Shoe-makers' Shop at 11 o clock P.M. Subtracts there from half a side of sole leather a shoe-makers awls and hammer a pen-holder ink-stand pair of scissors and a dictionary

Nov. 10
The contents of the Apothecaries Shop once in charge of Bro. Thomas Corbett are removed to the South West Chamber of (House Y) where job printing has been performed in the past. The printing works are now located in "Farmers' Shop" or (House U)

Note.
Some twenty years ago watches were considered too expensive to be used by Believers. They have however been admitted since as a necessity. The first introduced, was given to the presiding Elder—An army watch enclosed in a German Silver case.

100

1863
Current Events & notes of the "War of the Rebellion."

Jan. 1
This year opens with the dismal rumors of war between members of our own nation. It has been estimated that during the past year not less than 700,000. human beings have perished through sickness or pitched battles.

Mar. 7
Enoch Cummings comes from Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) to learn to make vulcanized rubber plates for false teeth. He subsequently purchased the vulcanized apparatus, and also the right for Society of Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) to make their own plates for artificial teeth.

A Visiting Party
May 25.
Benjamin H. Smith , Andrew J. Thompson Sophia M. Lowd , Martha Crooker , Asenath C. Stickney & Joanna J. Kaime take carriage to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) thence to Watervliet N.Y. (New York) Two days later proceed to Groveland N.Y. (New York) by Rail-Road. At Groveland (Groveland, New York) the party unfortunately met with a sad accident caused by a frightened horse Bro. David Parker who was guiding the animal was suddenly thrown from his carriage dislocating his right shoulder and sustaining other injuries as well. Other members of the party were also slightly injured, and visit here was prolonged beyond previous calculation. As soon as the injured

Note. May 29. The School house is undergoing repairs. School held at East House and Sec. Family (Second Family) meanwhile

101

Current Events

June 11
( Bro. J. S. Kaime meets Bro David at Groveland (Groveland, New York) Escorts him home on the 21st inst.)

became convalescent the party returned to Watervliet (Watervliet, New York) _from thence to Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) , Hancock (Hancock, Massachusetts) & Tyringham Mass. (Massachusetts) And from thence home._absent six weeks.

July 6

Aug. 23. 1863
"Sar of the rebellion." continued_
It was announced by the authorities of the War Department of N.H. (New Hampshire) that Elder Henry C. Blinn Eld. William Libby Andrew Thompson George S. Wright are to be drafted into the U.S. Service Said brethren were warned to appear at Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) for medical examination on the 16 of Sept. and were subjected to the scrutiny of the Committee chosen Elder Henry and G. S. Wright were accepted Wm. And Andrew were exempted. The two former were given five days furlough

Extreme anxiety for the welfare of our brethren was realized by Leaders and people in view of this unanticipated demand

A prayer meeting was held by the whole Society in behalf of the drafted brothers. During this season an inspired prayer was voiced by one of our mediums, in which the congregation joined; as follows: "O Father hear thy erring children pray for liberation Though chastened oft still we confide in Thy hand of sure protection The strife and turmoil of this earth, take from thy true disciples Spare each spare all, and we will be a more consecrated people"

102

1863

Current Events

Aug. 23
At the close of the prayer noticed on previous page, 'The assembly bowed the knee in united prayer in faith believing that we should receive an answer appropriate to our condition. This answer was realized shortly after, as the sequel shows.

Nov. 7
At this date, Bro. David Parker returned from Washington D.C. (District of Columbia) with the glad news that the Shaker conscripts would be granted a furlough till summoned by the War Department, and the summons were indefinitely postponed.

A letter received from Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) in June stated that the pension money relinquished by Believers to the U.S. Government from societies in New York, Mass (Massachusetts) , N.H. (New Hampshire) amounts one million thirty two thousand, eight hundred seventy three dollars & seventy seven cents, ($1,032,875.77). Yet the U.S. Government proposes to compel Believers to pay $300 for each drafted man.

This year closes with our country in the depth of civil war. The taxes to defray expenses will be very heavy upon us as a people.

The first draft in this State fell upon four members of this Society they have been permitted to remain at home although two are not discharged.

103

1864

Current Events

Mar. 27.
The Sugar Camp at Maple Grove took fire but was extinguished without doing much harm save in the cupola. The fire was occasioned by the intense heat of the chimney where some wood-work was in too close proximity_Three brethren spent the night in quenching the flames and watching the building

Apr. 15
The sap harvest closed. Result 618 bbls. of sap secured The largest yield from our Maple Grove on record

May 4
Mary B. Howarth kidnapped the Second time by her father with the aid of her uncle James both of whom had sojourned for a few months at our North Family.

May 10.
The Ohio Ministry arrive Viz. Elder Aaron Babbitt Eld. Cephas Holloway Eldress Sally Sharpe Eldress Naomi Segier . During their visit the Church enjoyed a pleasant "Pic Nic" at the Maple Grove The dinner was prepared in the Camp near, to which were added the maple sweets

Aug. 23
At this date a nice clock is adjusted on South wall of "Meeting Room" No. 38.

Soft hats are admitted. These bear a faint resemblance to the broad-brim Shaker hat of years gone by.

Nov. 28
Marks the date of a maple Sapling set in Sisters' North Door yard by N. A. Briggs .

104

1864

Current Events

Some new items of interest have been introduced during the past year_For instance A decided change in the style of dress of all classes and of both sexes as well

For outside wraps Sacks with sleeves have been substituted for the old fashioned cloaks

Boys wear capes in winter instead of stiff hats Jackets have been made into vests, minus skirts and Spencers are substituted for long frocks.

Dec. 31 No. of members in Church. Males 42 females 77 Total_119

Note Elder John Kaime arrives from New Gloucester (New Gloucester, Maine) June 22. Returns July 7, 1864.

105

1865

Jan. 5.
The first N.H. (New Hampshire) State Musical Convention" in session to-day By the kindness of our friend Benjamin B. Davis of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) one of the musical directors a party of Four brethren and six sisters were invited to be present. 700 voices were heard in this choir, on the Halleluiah Chorus_from the "Messiah" by

June 6.
School opens with 30 pupils_Teachers_ Betsy J Kaime & Mary M Cochran

Oct. 15.
Eldress Mary Whitcher resigns duties in the Ministry and Eldress Harriet Hastings assumes the same in M W 's stead.

M E Hastings succeeds H Hastings in Trustees' Office at Second Family.

Oct 18
The Church was robbed last night of a fine carriage horse which was taken from the stable although the stable was securely locked. The horse thief however succeeded in prying

106

1865

Current Events

Oct. 18
off the side of a window frame to admit his person, thus being able to unlock the stable door and secure his prize The horse was valued at $225.00.). No trace of the thief or the booty could be obtained. This is the first instance of the kind since the Chh was gathered.

Nov. 27
Tea introduced at the noon meal the same as at the breakfast table. Quite an innovation on previous abstinence.

(Nov. 27)
Boys' School opens with 16 pupils Teacher_ Betsy J. Kaime ( La. Shepard assistant). The first instance since 1822 where a Female Teacher presides over the boys' Winter Term.

Single beds introduced this year, Many other sanitary improvements have been accepted this season which we trust will be for the mutual benefit of the Family

The War of the Rebellion having closed the country is measurably restored to peace and prosperity

107

1866

Current Notes

Jan. 17
Ice harvested from Bark Mill pond. Two days hard work.

Apr. 3
Twenty one pupils fromConcord (Concord, New Hampshire) Episcopal School to arrive for entertainment. A choir of singers go to Trustees' Office to sing to and with them

May 1.
Elizabeth Stickney moves from N. F. (North Family) Office to Sec. Family (Second Family) Office as associate with Sister M. E. Hastings

May 23
Summer School opens with 26 pupils Teacher Betsy J Kaime and Mary Cochran SS. Com. Rev. Howard Moody.

July 8
Geo. Handy a boy of six years is brought from N.Y. (New York) by his father who agrees to pay $25.00 quarterly for the boys' expenses for two years, (amt $200.00)

July 11
A circular from Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) Ministry has been received with regard to some change in Believers' dress for the sake of uniformity

It is suggested for the Brethren to wear dark colors steel mixed or steel gray instead of drab as formerly

The sisters are to be supplied with very light worsted goods for dresses_Goods styled Mozambique are recommended. Bonnets are to be worn some inches shorter over the head.

108

1866

Current Events

July 16
Martha Wardrobe of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) comes with the Ministry with the intention of making this her home ae. 19 yrs.

July 17
Our brethren mow the North field this morn with mowing machines S W Carr with 17 boys spread rake & cock the hay A small regiment of 23 hands employed in this field

Oct. 5
The pipe from the Mill to the reservoir was laid and the first water thrown into the cistern which hold 13,000 gallons. The cemented pipe was a failure and had to be replaced by another of cast iron

109

1867

Current Events

Mar. 27.
E A. Stratton leaves Trustees' Office & A. C. Stickney takes her place "pro_tem"

Apr. 25
The brethren set out two Fir trees south of Office and four East of Large Dwelling House D.

June 2
Public meetings opened and led by Chh Elders. Were formerly conducted by Elders of North (North Family) and Sec. Family (Second Family) , for 20 yrs. previous

July 4
"Independence Day" 150 strangers walk over our premises ie. through garden barn dairy School.

July 5
The Badger Mill at Factory Village Gilmanton N.H. (New Hampshire) at a cost of $5000. for both saw and Grist Mill.

Sept 6.
A Hay Tedder is furnished the Haymakers for, $75.00)

Sept. 6
A colored man called at 'Office' John Parker by name intending to tarry a few days. States that he has been a slave 33 yrs. Is now solicitng aid for freedmen Related some of his personal experiences as a slave.

110

1867

Current Notes

Sept.
School inspected_Teachers A C. Stickney and E A. Stratton

Oct. 11
N A. Briggs in charge of "Clothiers' Mill" in place of Henry F. Campbell who left Sep. 12, 1867.

Oct. 19
Elder Daniel Boler & Eld. Giles B. Avery call here on their way to the State of Maine

Eld. Richard Pelham & Eld. Amos Parkhurst of Union Village O. are here on a visit

Oct. 28
A thief was encountered in our Sugar Camp but the brethren forgave him and let him go. S. W. Carr and boys finish building the wall around "Boys Island"

Joseph S. Hersey leaves the North Family for a home with his mother

Nov. 15
Harvey K Annis removes to the Church for a permanent home. Wm. G. Libbey succeeds him in the Elders' Order at Second Family

Nov. 16
Robt. Shepard leaves the Church, after a residence of 20 yrs. in the society

Dec. 31
Prospects for trade very dull. Not much chance for selling home manufactures.

Hired help nearly all dismissed.

111

1868

Current Notes

Aug. 9
Four persons from the Chh visit the Free Will Baptist Church at Canterbury Center, witness two immersions hear some sensible speaking & good singing, but took no active part in the services

Aug. 16
Other parties visit the neighboring churches A company of 9 from North & Second Families (Second Family) attend the Congregationalist Service. The pastor remarked to them, "I have long marveled that the Shakers with their claim to superior light have been so remiss in efforts to diffuse the same."

Oct. 21.
Bro. Emory Brooks of Groveland N.Y. (New York) arrives with our Ministry for a brief, visit. We find him a very pleasant Shaker guest.

Nov. 11
A company of Brethren and Sisters go to Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) to attend a Shaker Convention, agreeably to an invitation extended by Elders of North Family Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) . Delegates, chosen Viz. Eld. Abraham Perkins Eld. Henry C Blinn Benjamin H Smith , Eldress Dorothy A. Durgin Eld. Harriet March & A. C. Stickney , of Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire) This party was met in Boston (Boston, Massachusetts) by Elder Frederic Evans Eldress Antionette Doolittle & Maria Blow of Mt. Lebanon N.Y. (New York)

112

1868

Current Notes

Nov. 11.
Elder Grove Blanchard Eld. Wm. Leonard Eld. Wm. Wetherbee Eld. John Whitely Bro. Simon Atherton , Eldress Eliza Babbitt Nancy Fairbank and Lizzie Webster of Harvard (Harvard, Massachusetts) & Shirley Mass. (Massachusetts) Eighteen Shaker delegates

Elder Frederic Evans presided

An address of two hours duration was delivered by him in a very able manner, to which the audience gave rapt attention. Several hundred persons wer in attendance This is the first time since the establisment of the Shaker Churches in New England that a public Shaker testimony has been delivered in the city of Boston (Boston, Massachusetts)

Dec. 7.
Eld. H. C. Blinn Eldress D. A. Durgin and M. R. Hillsgrove go to Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) to assist in cutting fitting and making brethren's clothes. Return the 18th.

113

1868

Recapitulation

Recapitulation of 1868_The Central Ministry have this year visited every Society of Believers West of Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) , and a company of Brethren and Sisters from that place have visited every Society East, so that there has been direct communication by every branch throughout the land with the Central Head of our Sacred Union.

The universal prayer from these various societies is for an increase religious activity than has been realized in the past

In the Town Meeting of Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) on March last a S.S. Com. of one man was chosen from each district for its particular school. This choice brings the Shaker School under the immediate supervision of our Society very much to our satisfaction. The Leaders in the Chh are constituted Prec. & S.S. Com.

Addenda
May 28.
Olive M. Libbey takes Office duties A. C. Stickney leaves office to take charge of School in Dist. No. 8.

Mar. 16
J. S. Kaime left for Boston (Boston, Massachusetts) _thence to New York. Returns the 23 after a narrow escape from drowning, he being a passenger on board the Bristol in a fearful storm.

114

1869

Current Events

Feb. 16
Elder Frederic Evans , Eldress Antionette Doolittle and Marcia Bullard arrive from N. F. (North Family) Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) Bro. Wm. Offord formerly an English Divine accompanied them.

Eld Frederic brought with him Treatises on Revelations in manuscript which he read to the society which was convened for that purpose

Apr. 22
James S Kaime left home for Mt. Morris, N.Y. (New York) Nicholas A. Briggs A. C. Stickney and A. B. Clifford accompanied him as far as Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) N. A. B. & Co. (Company) were intending to give some instructions in Vocal Music agreeably to a request made by North Family Elders. Their mission extended from thence to Hancock Mass. (Massachusetts) Watervliet N.Y. (New York) Enfield N.Y. (New Hampshire) Harvard (Harvard, Massachusetts) & Shirley Mass. (Massachusetts) They arrived home June 4, after having attended the Shaker Convention which was held in Boston (Boston, Massachusetts) on the 28 of May, where they met a delegation of Shakers from each of the eastern Societies Elder Albert Lomas , Eldress Paulina Bates & Sister Harriet Bullard of Watervliet (Watervliet, New York) visit Harvard (Harvard, Massachusetts) & Shirley (Shirley, Massachusetts) in company with A. C. S. A. B. C. & N. A. B. and from thence to Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire)

115

1869

Current Events

Dec. 28
Another Shaker Convention held in Boston (Boston, Massachusetts) this evening. Delegates from Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire) as follows Eld. Henry C. Blinn James S. Kaime N. A. Briggs Geo. Shepard Wm. Sterling D. L. Perkins A. Y. Cochran Eldress Dorothy A Durgin A. C. Stickney E. M. Hillsgrove J. E. Ware & A. E. Hunter from the Church Eld William G. Libbey from North Family Cant. (Canterbury, New Hampshire) Every Shaker Society East of Groveland N.Y. (New York) was represented Whole number of delegates (63)

Dec. 31.
Eld. Henry C. Blinn Eldress Sarah A. Crooker Eldress Dorothy A. Durgin Eldress Joanna J. Kaime attend by solicitation the First Annual Convention of the New Hampshire Women's Suffrage Association in Concord N.H. (New Hampshire)

Note
In April 1869. A great freshet throughout N. Eng. (New England) (produced by copious rains) which has not been equaled for a long period of years. It is estimated that the U.S. lost nearly half a million of dollars in consequence

116

1870

Current Events

Jan. 29.
Eld. H C. Blinn Eldress Sarah A. Crooker Angeline B. Clifford go to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) to see Eld. Abraham Perkins who is seriously ill, with Typhoid Fever

Feb. 7.
Nelson Chase of Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) Society, is employed at Dentistry in Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire)

A water famine prevails here. The herdsmen are obliged to transport water from the Mill ponds for the stock. The oldest residents recall no drought equal to the present at this time of the year

Apr. 10
Sister Eliza Johnson who with Str Jane Cram was on a visit toMt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) , was taken suddenly ill with "Bilious Fever" which continued to increase in seriousness and ultimately terminated her useful life at 68 yrs. of age. The memorial was observed atMt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) . Remains interred in their Family Cemetery (on Apr. 22 1870.)

May 11.
Mt. Leb. Ministry (Mt. Lebanon Ministry) arrive viz. Eld. Daniel Boler Eld. Giles B. Avery Eldress Eliza A. Taylor and Eldress Polly Reed .

May 15
At the close of Morning Meeting, various changes were announced by the Ministry as given on following page

117

1870

Current Events

May 15
Benjamin H. Smith is to leave Trusteeship and is appointed associate with Elder Abraham Perkins in the Ministry Nicholas A Briggs assumes Trusteeship Eldress Harriet Hastings resigns her place in the Ministry, & Eldress Sarah A Crooker is to succeed her. Eldress Joanna Kaime from Eldership at N. F. (North Family) is appointed associate with Eldress Sarah Eldress Eliza A. Fitts is appointed successor to Eldress J. J. Kaime in N. Fam. (North Family)

Aug. 7
Universal Prayer Meetings were instituted in every Shaker Family throughout the U.S. To be observed weekly at 7.30 each Sab. eve.

Nov. 4
Our flock of sheep has suffered sad havoc from stray dogs. 39 of the flock have been severely wounded or killed this season. The second Family (Second Family) has lost 38 in number.

Nov. 9.
Emily F. Hall goes to Harvard Mass (Massachusetts) to assist in making and fitting sister's lace caps.

Nov. 15
Anna J. Naker & Ednah E. Fitts go to the Eye and Ear Infirmary of Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) for medical aid Anna for deafness Ednah for defective sight Eld. B H Smith & Eldress Joanna J Kaime accompanied them.

118

1870

Current Events

Aug. 18
Prof. Benjamin B. Davis , arrives from Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) accompanied by Dr. C. A. Guilmette whom he introduced to the Society as a superior teacher of music vocal and instrumental in theory and practice

He proved to be not only an accomplished vocalist but an Elocutionist and a learned Physician as well

The Society convened in the Ancient Church (Meeting House) at eve. & held a session from 7-30 to 9-30 P.M. We were much interested in the Doctor's lecture upon the human structure especially his remarks upon the structure of the vocal organs, the graceful movements of well trained muscles_the capacity of the lungs the number of air vesicles contained in these &c.

We sang a few original pieces and adjourned till another lecture could be given by the Doctor.

Sept. 9
Harriet Miller a Professional Elocutionist from Brown University Prov. R.I. (Rhode Island) calls to give some recitations. The Society convenes at evening to listen to her select readings & were much entertained She subsequently paid several visits making them specially useful in this regard.

119

1870

Current Events

Sept 13
Dr. Charles A Guilmette arrives from Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) A. "Song Rehearsal" was held under his direction in upper loft of School House at 7-30. P.M.

Next day a class of the Senior Sisters convened to listen to a discourse on Physiology Hygiene &c

From this date instructive lessons were given to the singers from time to time when he could afford to leave his business

During his early visit he recommended instrumental music as essential aid in supporting the voices by helping them to sustain the right key, when in practice. He continued to plead this necessity for the choir, until it was mutually decided by our Leaders to purchase an instrument for the use of schools_A Melodeon was the first instrument purchased for said purpose Prof. B. B. Davis who had previously guided the School once a week, urged the same necessity

In November 1870 a cabinet organ was purchased at Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) "Prescott Bros." The only practical organist in the Society at that time was a young man Edward Beecher by name who came to the North Family with his mother for a temporary sojourn on Oct. 1870

With regard to the use of the organ this accession proved quite opportune although the organist possessed but a limited knowledge of music theoretically considered. The choir being in ABC of musical notation our organist was suited to our capacity.

120

1871

Current Events

Feb. 13
A printed Circular issued by Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) Ministry announced the purpose of publishing a monthly paper of eight quarto pages, entitled "The Shaker." To be edited by George A. Lomas .Shaker Albany N.Y. (New York) It was proposed to embrace for primary subjects History and progress of Shakers and Shakerism. Biography of the Founders of the Institution_Testimonies of practical Believers Principles & precepts of the Shaker Church embracing the sayings of Mother Ann Lee . Poems illustrating the doctrines and precepts specified. Lectures correspondence, articles upon Hygiene Agriculture Horticulture and other useful information

Believers in every Society and family were solicited to take part, to furnish correspondence for its columns, and were especially urged to obtain subscribers for the paper.

It was also proposed that all contributions of a theological character should be presented to the presiding Ministry of each society, previous to their publication, also that any professedly new revelation of truth, theological demonstrations or doctrinal views should be presented before publication

The Policy of the Shaker is to adhere closely to revealed truth in accordance with the gospel principles

121

1871

Current Events

Feb. 20
The January No. of "The Shaker" arrived by Mail No. 1. Vol. 1st.

Apr. 1.
We learn by letter that Sister Abigail Crosman and Elder Calvin Reed of Church at Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) with two other members are to go to Groveland (Groveland, New York) to re-organize West Family which has recently lost its leaders & people by secession

May 1.
Canvassing for "The Shaker" in progress. Six sisters go to Fisherville (Fisherville, New Hampshire) & Boscawen N.H. (New Hampshire) for this purpose

June 4.
Public Meeting opened for the season at 10. A.M. The three families attend the Chh. leads in speaking and singing

June 7
A Petition to the Legislature to pass an Act granting women the right to vote on school matters was presented by Caroline Foster of Canterbury Center Two dozen or more in the Society gave their signature

An "Educational Convention" was held in Sch. Dist. No. 5. "Hackleborough Road"_Shakers attended from each family an took an active part

A C. Stickney read an original essay on "Good Reading" Prayer was offered by Elder Sinclair of New Hampshire Edward Osgood the Sup. Sch. Committee (School Committee) presided.

122

1871

Missionary Events and Enterprises discussed

On Jan. 24. a convention was held at Chh office composed of the Leaders from the three families to discuss the subject of missionary work. The leading questions were Has the time arrived to send out missionaries? How shall they commence? What are our means: our resources?

Each individual spoke in favor of earnest efforts necessary to diffuse light which had been received with regard to the true Resurrection Order and life of Believers.

Some suggested going abroad singly near home, among neighbors, to confer with them upon the principles of the Shaker Chh. assisiting them meantime in household duties Others suggested that small parties go to adjacent towns and hold conferences in an unostentatious manner, &c but no definite plan or programme was matured at said date.

123

1871

Current Notes

Feb. 15
Eldress Eliza A. Fitts & Hannah Wilson of N. F. (North Family) go to the State of Maine on a missionary tour among Hannah 's relatives & former friends Return Mar. 6.

Mar.
School House upper lost is fitted for Singing Schools. The heretofore level floor has been graded for the convenience of the Choir

Apr. 28
A final settlement made with Chas. Woodman for services rendered atMt. Morris (Mt. Morris, New York) farm Contract having been made with Wm. W. Ostrander of Jan. 5 to assume charge of the same

Oct. 18
The Second Family was dissolved. Its members absorbed by Chh. & North Family

Two brethren, one boy twelve sisters remain to take charge of the farm and buildings property &c and were to be considered henceforth as a Branch of the Chh.. All supplies for current necessities were to be given by the Chh.

Elder Wm. Libbey remained as supervisor, Sister Lucy F. Willard & Lucy A. Miller assumed charge of sisters' departments

Oct. 31
The Chh. make a donation to the society at Groveland N.Y. (New York) on account of a disastrous fire at that place. Cloth yarns &c were valued at ($300.00.)

124

1872

Current Events

Jan. 24.
Broad loom at "Clothiers' Mill" bought of Davis & Furber—North Andover, Mass. (Massachusetts)

Feb. 22
Geo. W. Webster , a stranger guest at N. family committed suicide by hanging. He was found in their horsebarn. A coroner's inquest was held over the remains which were retained till the arrival of his son from Charleston Mass. (Massachusetts) who came in company with Lorenzo D. Grosvenor the latter aided in the memorial services, which were held at the Office of North Family

Some brethren & sisters from the Church were present, and aided in singing

The services were conducted by Rev. J. Higgins of "Canterbury Center". L. D. Grosvenor delivered a very appropriate sermon. The remains were interred in the Shaker Cemetery.

The son of the deceased expressed much gratitude for the kindness shown on this sad occasion.

Feb. 28
Howard Kimball Photographer of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) comes to entertain the society with Magic lantern views reflected upon a screen adjusted in the upper loft of Sch. House

Feb. 29
Sarah A Crooker goes to Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) Sec. Fam. (Second Family) to take charge of Winter School returns Apr. 25.

Note.
Thos. Clegg manufacturer reeds & harnesses, Sou. Canal Sou. Lawrence Mass. (Massachusetts)

125

1872

Current Events

Mar. 1
Educational Convention" at Canterbury Center a few brethren attend

Mar. 20
Isabel Olney & Edith D Caswell go to Franklin N.H. (New Hampshire) to canvass for the Shaker.

Wm. Stirling to Laconia (Laconia, New Hampshire) to canvass and to confer with Dr. C. A. Guilmette on music

Apr. 13
News by letter of incendiarism at Sou. Union, K.Y. (Kentucky) stating that theSou. Union (South Union, Kentucky) Shakers lost ($2400.00) from Trustee's Office

(The Federal Bridge at Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) carried away by floating ice.)

June 8.
Benjamin H. Smith N. A. Briggs A. C. Stickney & Harriet March go to Portland Me. (Maine) accompanied by Rosetta Cumings Isabella Russell James G. Russell & Franklin Young of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) to aid in signing at the Shaker Convention to be held in said city

Delegates from several other Societies were in attendance. Elder Frederic Evans and Eldress Antionette Doolittle were the presiding Leaders of said convention

First Piano brought into the Chh was on Aug. 25, 1872.

126

1872

Current Events

June 12
Elder Henry C. Blinn Eldress Dorothy W. Durgin & Abigail Hall go to Harvard (Harvard, Massachusetts) and Shirley (Shirley, Massachusetts) , thence to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) . Return July 2.

Aug. 18
J Sullivan Wright released from Eldership at North Family

Note
Settees, take the place of benches 'sans' backs in Meeting House, Wall seats retained

Aug. 28
The Chh. Hennery vacated on account of being infested with lice. Hens cared for at the "Branch"

Sept. 2
Nehemiah Trull appointed Elder at Poland Hill Me. (Maine) leaves charge of Trusteeship at Sec. Fam. (Second Family) Office

Sept. 7.
Harriet Guilmette the vocalist arrives Dr. Chas. A. Guilmette having learned that the Central Ministry were intending to visit the Chh. asked to be notified when they arrived as he wished to have an interview with the Bishop in regard to our vocal music. This request was granted The Central Ministry while sojourning here attended our Song Rehearsals, favored the introduction of musical instruments to aid vocal training, approved the methods of instruction given by the Doctor and sanctioned the use of musical instruments

127

1873

Current Events

Sept 23
A piano was loaned to the Church by Prescott Bros. of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) for the use of Vocal practice while under tuition by Harriet Guilmette who sojourned with us six weeks for that purpose.

Oct. 6
The Adventists having erected a large tent at West Canterbury (West Canterbury, New York) , held there three meetings daily The leader Enoch Morrill with two Advent (Adventist) Sisters called at Trustees' Office for a short visit expressing a desire meantime that Shakers would visit them at the Grove

Subsequently several companies of Shakers attended their meetings and took an active part in speaking singing &c.

We found them very enthusiastic in their devotions, but their theology was but a mere skeleton compared with the practical side of true christianity.

Nov. 1.
Epizootic the prevailing malady affects our horses to some extent. By extreme care however no case has proved fatal with us.

Nov. 9
A "Great Fire" reported at Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) Loss estimated at, ($100,000,000)

Nov. 18
Stephen Henry Meade a boy of 13 yrs. was drowned in the Bark Mill pond East of our Village Strong efforts were made to secure his rescue by brethren who risked their own lives therefor, but all to no avail.

128

1872

Current Notes

Nov. 19
Sisters Mary Whitcher and J. E. Ware go to Prov. R.I. (Rhode Island) to canvass for the "Shaker"

Dec. 11
Boys' School opens—Teacher Eliza A. Stratton

Singing Schools writing reading spelling and Bible Schools have be instituted and held at different evenings

Names of officials in 1872 as given below

Ministry
Eld. Abraham Perkins
Eld. Benj. H Smith
Eldress Joanna J. Kaime
Eldress Angeline B. Clifford

Elders
Elder Henry C. Blinn
Elder Sylvester W. Carr
Eldress Dorothy A Durgin
Eldress Lucy A. Shepard

Fam. Dea.
Harvey Annis
Nicholas A. Briggs
Sarah S Woods
Martha Crooker & M. R. Hillsgrove

Trustees
James S Kaime
Mary Whitcher
N. A. Briggs
F. E. Myres

Physicians
Emeline Kimball
Olive M. Libbey
Fannie Hall
Dr. R. P. J. Tenney of Loudon N.H. (New Hampshire)

129

1873

Current Notes

Jan. 13
Eldress Eliza Ann Fitts released from Eldership at North Family

Harriet March succeeds her Sarah D. Libbey —associate

Sarah A Crooker removes to Infirmary as associate nurse with Emeline L. Kimball and Mary L. Miller

O M Libbey leaves Infirmary to take charge of Tailoring. Eld. Henry cuts Brns. garments

Jan. 20
Martha Crooker leaves duties at Trustees' Office Sarah S. Woods takes the vacant place

Apr. 18
M R. Hillsgrove leaves Trustees duties Hannah P Shepard succeeds

Eliza A. Stratton assumes duties of Deaconesses with S. C. Hall & F. E. Myres .

May 8
Joseph Woods is associate Trustee with James S. Kaime .

May 9
J Sullivan Wright comes to the Church from North Family to take charge of the Stock.

Elder Henry C. Blinn leaves home to visit the societies of Believers South and West. Returned July 8, 1873

130

1973

Current Notes

Oct 30
Edler Nicholas A. Briggs leaves for South Union Ky. (Kentucky) Where he is expected to give some instruction in vocal music

Oct. 31.
A new Power Loom with fixtures, has been purchased and put in operation at the Factory in Clothiers' Mill. valued at $321.00
Sewing machines valued @ $108.00
Changes in Saw Mill valued @ $530.00
Amt. $1029.00

Note
A Piano—"Parlor Gem," was purchased in June, valued @ $300.00.)

Nov. 1.
George Shepard goes to North Family to succeed Eld. Nicholas while the latter tarries at Sou. Union Ky. (Kentucky) as Teacher

Oct. 24
An Adventist Camp meeting held in East Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) Our brethren and sisters attend

Oct. 25
James H. Richardson of South Union Ky. (Kentucky) arrives to spend a Winter in the Chh.

131

1874

Current Events

Jan. 1.
A New Year's Greeting by our youthful Choir, at breakfast table

Jan. 8
Singing Schools organized on a different basis from a former custom. Seven separate schools are to be held in as many dwelling rooms, by as many Teachers—for reading music as follows: Elder Henry C. Blinn in House D. No. 18, & A. C. Stickney —No. 22 M E Hastings at House F. S A Crooker M. R. Hillsgrove E A. Stratton & W E. Smith in other dwellings adjacent

Round head notes, written upon a staff were to be used in the future by the chorus as well as by the choir, instead of letters as formerly. This change in musical representation required some effort on the part of those who had read music by letters during a term of thirty years.

A little work called Merry Chimes" contained lessons best suited to our capacity at the date above noticed, and so we chimed merrily each Wed. and Fri. eve. till the rudiments were mastered

132

1874

Current Notes

Jan. 8
An evening school designated as "Union Class" was established to be held each Tues. eve. for the literary improvement of the young brethren and Sisters Teachers Eld Henry C. Blinn & Eldress Dorothy A. Durgin .

Thurs. & Sat. evenings were solely for religious exercises. Mon. eve. the Choirs met separately for Rehearsals.

Jan. 26.
James H. Richardson left for his Kentucky home. He having sojourned with us as a member during the absence of N. A. Briggs .

Jan. 31
Chas. Nordhoff author of [blank] comes to investigate communism among the Shakersin N.H. (New Hampshire) as well as in other States and other communistic Societies.

He had travelled in Ky. (Kentucky) N.Y. (New York) & N.E. (New England) on his special mission, was escorted by the Elders about our places of general interest.

Feb. 9
James G. Russell , Isabella Russell , and Eudora Arnold of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) go to Watervliet N.Y. (New York) to teach vocal and instrumental music

Feb. 26
Boys' School closes. S.S.C. Rev. Jona. Higgins of "Canterbury Center" Male pupils five—teacher Elizabeth Martin A. F. Montague assistant.

133

1874

Current Notes

Mar. 6.
A party of eight brethren and sisters go to attend an Educational Convention at "Canterbury Center" Subject of Lecture Language by [blank]

Mar. 30
N A. Briggs returns from his Southern mission at South Union K.Y. (Kentucky) While absent he visited Pleasant Hill Ky. (Kentucky) Union Village (Union Village, Ohio) & Watervliet Ohio & Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire)

Apr. 3
Three brethren and six sisters go to Canterbury Center to listen to a lecture on Temperance by Dr. J H. Gallinger of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire)

Apr. 7
Twenty two students of St. Paul's School arrive for dinner and entertainment

Apr. 13
The brethren agree to dispense with hired help this year in cutting and housing the fuel.

James H. Hartley (an Englishman ae. 36 yrs.) by profession A lecturer on Moral Reforms Modern Spiritualism &c arrived at the Village the 12th instant. Report states that he has lectured and travelled extensively for the last 15 years. Has crossed the Atlantic 5 times

It was proposed to grant him an opportunity to investigate Shakerism, while he tarried and to treat him as a guest.

134

1874

Current Notes

Apr. 13
The family convened at evening to listen to an informal talk by the guest previously mentioned who talked to us of London Eng. his birth-place and of the customs and habits of the different grades of English society Several evenings were thus occupied by the Lecture.

Apr. 17
J. H. Hartley leaves for New Bedford Mass. (Massachusetts) Ret. 29 in company with Eld. H. C. Blinn

Dr. [blank] Hebbard and Fannie White arrive from White Mts. Ask permission to board with is a few weeks. Fannie being an accomplished pianist as well as linguist agrees to give lessons on the piano, to 3 or 4 pupils, adopting two French pupils meantime—viz. A. C. S. & F. A. W.

Apr. 27.
Eld. H. C. Blinn & Eldress D A. Durgin accompany Flora A. Williams to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) about business concerning the late Frederic Williams who deceased on the 22 inst.

May 1st.
Eld. Henry C. Blinn & J H. Hartley go to Bradford N.H. (New Hampshire) to attend a Spiritualist's Meeting" They held a meeting in the evening to discourse on Shakerism This was J Hartley 's first attempt to lecture from a Shaker stand point

135

1874

Current Notes & events

May 5
A conference was held with regard to admitting J. H. Hartley , as he desires to live amid virtuous surroundings, to which he can feel welcome when not abroad engaged in missionary work
He confessed his sins and was accepted on probation. Being in debt he could not enter into full church relation until the same was cancelled
This was the first instance since the original gathering of the Church that an adult was admitted from abroad without an earlier test of their fitness for full acceptance
This incident was without a precedent in two respects viz.—Taking in adults from abroad and members going frequently abroad to hold meetings for publishing Shakerism

May 11
Some little change in the sisters style of dress is instituted agreeably to a model originated at Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) which consists of a dress and cape of same material. Neckerchiefs are to be worn with dress at public worship as formerly.

The supply of water a failure owing to leaky pipes. In digging to repair said pipes the soil was found to be frozen several feet in depth.

136

1874

Current Notes

May 11
Educational Convention at " Hill's Corner" Lecture given by Norris of Canaan N.H. (New Hampshire) on School houses School Masters Women's Suffrage

Three brethren and six sisters attend.

May 12
Small flower beds in various designs (40 in no.) are arranged on front lawn facing House D. This plot was selected as most convenient for the public to share in the pleasure or profits to be derived from the culture or cultivation of the beautiful, and were given to the youth and children as an incentive to outofdoor exercise aside from School hours.

May 17
A meeting for youth and children at the Branch" has been organized to be in session at same hour of Public worship on the Sabbath. Our Small Church being too crowded to admit all the members of Shaker Chh. when so many strangers were in attendance

June 10
N A. Briggs leaves North Family as associate Elder to become associate Trustee with J S Kaime & Joseph Woods . George Shephard goes to North Family in place of N. A. B

Wm. G. Libby moves from "Branch" to Church"

137

1874

Current Notes

June 24
Julia Ann Briggs removes from Church to N. F. (North Family) Rebecca Adams from N. Family (North Family) to Church as Laundry Deaconess. Sarah A. Crooker from Infirmary. Eliza A. Stratton succeeds

Three young sisters from Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Viz. Evelyn Strobridge Anna Wells and Martha Witherell come for tuition in Vocal music

Eld. John Whitely of Harvard Mass. (Massachusetts) Comes to show process of wool sorting, that having been his former trade in England. Lorenzo Prouty accompanies him

July 4
A small company of delegates go to Portsmouth N.H. (New Hampshire) to hold a Shaker Meeting on the fifth inst. viz. Elder Henry C. Blinn N. A. Briggs Walter E. Smith Mary Whitcher A. C. Stickney Elmira M. Hillsgrove of the Church Eld. Benjamin H. Smith Eldress Harriet March from N. F. (North Family) James H. Hartley Speaker

July 20
Mary Whitcher Rebecca Adams & Sullivan Wright go to Gonic N.H. (New Hampshire) on business

July 22
Elder Henry trims the Cemetery Grounds re-adjusts head-stones and improves the general appearance of the place

138

1874

Current Notes

July 22
J H. Hartley returns from Portsmouth N.H. (New Hampshire) accompanied by Geo. Fuller , a lecturer on Spiritualism

July 29
Sarah Maynard of Boston Mass (Massachusetts) arrives Entertains the Sisterhood with a rehearsal of her travels in China & Switzerland where she has not only travelled but resided for years.

Aug 6.
Today completes a period of 101 years since Mother Ann Lee landed on American shores.

A card is written by Eldress Dorothy and passed among the sisters, asking them to pray. To compare their lives & possessions with Mother's and also to covenant anew to live in a higher purer state of mind, more like the true pattern At noon the Church assembled in the Chapel for united prayer

James H Hartley goes to Bradford N.H. (New Hampshire) to arrange for a Shaker Meeting

Aug. 13
Summer School inspected and closed

Aug. 18
James S. Kaime removed from N. Fam. (North Family) to Chh.

139

1874

Current Notes

Aug. 8
A delegation of Shakers goes to Bradford N.H. (New Hampshire) to hold a meeting in said town. 37 miles distant

Delegates are Eld. Henry C. Blinn D. L. Perkins Mary Whitcher A C. Stickney E F Hall J E Ware & Jas. H. Hartley as speaker

Eld. Abraham Perkins Ann Maria Greaves Amelia Calver ofMt. Leb. (Mount Lebanon, New Hampshire) 1st Order (First Order) with Emily Copley of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) come to take lessons on Piano and organ.

Aug. 21
Annie P. Stevens of [blank] comes to board Wishes to pay for board by teaching drawing Gives a few rudimental lessons to our children

Aug. 25
Alton Bay (Alton Bay, New Hampshire) Camp Meeting visited by Eld. H C B . W. W. Briggs Eldress Joanna Kaime Eldress D. A. Durgin Amelia Calver Anne M Graves .

Aug. 28
Another party to Camp meeting atAlton Bay (Alton Bay, New Hampshire) viz. Eld. H C. B. J H. Hartley Eldress H March S S Woods J. E. Ware Geo. Shepard Annie J Baker & Matilda Tatterton

Sept. 6.
A small party of friends from Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) convene at Sch. House to sing.

Abbie G. Woolson of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) gives a short lecture. Geo. Blanchard & friend from Chicago (Chicago, Illinois) add their mite to the Entertainment.

140

1874

Current Notes

Sept. 11
Mary Whitcher and L.A. Shepard go to Nashua N.H. (New Hampshire) to secure board and lodging for the five singers who are to follow them on the 12th inst viz: Alexander Y. Chochran D. L. Perkins A C. Stickney S A Crooker & J. E. Ware

These make the trip in a carriage 50 miles

Sept 25
Eld. N. A. Briggs with J H. Hartley go to Franklin N.H. (New Hampshire) to prospect for a Shaker meeting

Sun. 27
Bros. Wm. G. Libbey N. A. Briggs W. E. Smith & sisters A. C. Stickney L. A. Shepard A J Baker E Martin M. L. Miller J. E. Ware go to Franklin (Franklin, New Hampshire) to hold a Shaker Meeting

Sept 30
Brethren and Sisters go to East Orchard to harvest the winter fruit. An accident occurred there which came so near being fatal that we make a note of it for sake of the lesson drawn therefrom

Two sisters were standing in an open team with horses attached, untethered, busily picking apples from a tree just above their heads, when some one at a short distance fired a gun. The report of the same, so startled the horses that they sprang forward, thus throwing the sisters to the ground. Fortunately neither of the sisters were fatally injured but the experiment was too dangerous to be repeated

141

1874

Current Notes

Oct. 2
Sat eve. It is ascertained that burglars entered our large dwelling (House D) Farmers Shop, Clothiers' Mill" and steal a large amount of clothing beside three rolls of cloth which had been dressed for the neighbors.

Oct. 7
Eldress DA. Durgin and Amanda Matthews go to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to meet Eldress A.B. Clifford & Fannie Fallon of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) who comes to tarry awhile for recuperation Rat. Dec. 15.

Oct. 9
The Alfred (Alfred, Maine) Ministry arrive. Viz. Elder Otis Sawyer Eldress Hester A. Adams Mary A. Gillispie and Henry Greene .

Oct. 11
James Tracy one of the burglars previously mentioned was arrested and most of the stolen goods recovered through his revealing their hiding place, which proved to be in a garden at Farmington N.H (New Hampshire)

Oct. 13
Eldress Dorothy and Abbie M. Hall go to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to identify the stolen articles. They brought home some knitted webbing and a brother's valuable overcoat

Oct. 29
John Clark of Sanbornton N.H. (New Hampshire) deceased Sally Ceeley and A.M. Hall go to help fit the remains for burial. Memorial Services solemnized on the 31st inst. Wm. G. Libbey & George Clark attend.

142

1874

Current Notes

Oct. 16
J H. Hartley goes to Portsmouth NH (New Hampshire) to give a Sunday sermon

Oct. 21
Eldress Harriet March & S. S. Woods meet J. H. H. at said seaport to assist in missionary work

Oct. 23
Eld. Henry joins the delegates

Oct. 24
A C. Stickney J. E. Ware D L. Perkins & W. E. Smith go as a Choir to sing at the three meetings held at that place

Nov. 3
Elder Daniel Crosman of Mt. Lebanon N.Y (New York) calls here intending to make a brief tarry

We enjoy a pleasant visit with the good brother

Nov. 6
J H. Hartley delivers a lecture on London Eng. At " Hill's Corner" later, called "Uplands" Twenty persons from the Shaker Chh. Attend.

Nov. 12
J. H. H. with Eld. A Perkins Emily Robbins & F. E. Myres goes to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to lecture before the "Young Men's Christian Association" From thence J. H. H. proceeds to Nashua N.H. (New Hampshire)

Nov. 19
Twenty two persons attend a Lecture by a Mr. Blake of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) at "Uplands"

Nov. 20
Five delegates go to Nashua, N.H. (New Hampshire) to meet J H. H. viz. Eld. B.H. Smith N. A. Briggs Mary Whitcher A. C. Stickney J E. Ware

143

1874

Current Notes

Nov. 23
Chh Laundry under repairs. Laundrying performed at the "Branch." Laundry ceiling re-plastered.

Nov. 24
Boys' Winter Term opens with six pupils E Martins Teacher

Eldress Joanna & Eldress Dorothy return from Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Henry Cantrell of Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) accompanies them

Nov. 27
Union Class in session, H Cantrell present, also, Carter E. Cate (of Loudon N.H. (New Hampshire) ) who gives a declamation by invitation

Dec. 2
J. H. Hartley goes to Newburyport (Newburyport, Massachusetts) to lecture

Dec. 7
N. A. Briggs leaves for New York City to meet and escort the Kentucky trio. Viz. Elder Solomon Rankin Jane Cowan & Mary Clark to Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) where the sisters propose to spend the winter Elder Solomon leaves for home the 31st inst. A.Y.C accompanies him as far as Boston Mass. (Massachusetts)

Dec. 23
" Wong Chin Foo" a Chinaman of royal ancestry arrives from Portsmouth N.H. (New Hampshire) Gives an informal lecture upon Chinese manners and customs. Exhibits specimens of Chinese handiwork.

Was attired in Chinese costume which was manufactured principally of silk, in said country.

144

1875

Current Notes

Jan. 5
Boys' Order re-organized consisting of four boys Viz. A. B. Caswell Frank Day, Albert Sterling, Frederic Norton, Caretake W. W. Briggs Boys' Shop at present date in Sou. East chamber of House J. formerly known as Broom Shop Boys dormitory in House B.

Jan. 6
A. Y. Cochran returns from Harvard Mass. (Massachusetts) Hewett Chandler of Me. arrives—Leaves 8th inst.

Jan. 13
The Kentucky sisters Jane Cowan & Mary Clark go to Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) to attend the Annual Musical Convention. Escorted by N. A. Briggs and M. R. Hillsgrove . They remain over night return next day in a snow storm. A novelty to Southern friends

Agricultural Convention at Loudon N.H. (New Hampshire) Several Brethren and Sisters attend.

Feb. 2
Bro. Clark Hayden of Mt. Lebanon N.Y. (New York) comes for a visit. Has been sojourning at Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) in place of James Russell who went to Mt. Lebanon N.Y. (New York) to teach music.

Feb. 11
H. Guilmette comes from Concord, N.H. (New Hampshire) for a brief tarry. Teaches vocal music during her stay. Her daughter Regina here also.

145

1875

Current Notes about Fire!

Feb. 9.
A letter from Eldress Betsey Johnson , of Ministry of Hancock Mass. (Massachusetts) brings first news of the disastrous fire at Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) Chh. Family. A subsequent letter from Elder Giles B. Avery gives the following particulars.

"On Feb. 6 First Order Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) an incendiary fire consumes the Sisters' Work-Shop and wood shed beneath, the large Dwelling House, Ministry's Shop, some storage houses, three barns—with one yoke of oxen. On Feb. 28, same year another incendiary fire at the Chh. originating in the Herb-house consumes that, with some other buildings

Loss estimated at ($40,000.) Thus the four Sabbaths instead of being enjoyed as seasons of rest from material care and anxiety, were converted into days of mourning and unrest.

The incendiary, Charles Harris was finally arrested and committed to jail to await his trial which occurred Apr. 29, 1875. His sentence was 14 years of hard labor in Clinton Prison N.Y. (New York)

Aid in the way of clothing with other needfuls were promptly sent toMt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) sufferers from the various Shaker Communities. Trustees of East Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire) forwarded $3000 in cash, besides several boxes of wearing apparel stationery &;c. AtMt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) Two good brothers lost their lives through exposure during the fire viz. Philemon Stewart & John Browncc

146

1875

Current Events

Feb. 12
On the Sabbath at East Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire) Water fails at both Kitchen and Laundry

Some of the brethren engaged all day in trying to stop the leakage which is found to be in the aqueduct.

Sisters spend their day in making under wear for the sufferers at Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York)

(Feb. 18
Boys' School closes)

Feb. 21.
Snow-drifts 4 ft. deep Brethren are obliged to transport water from the lower well West. to kitchen and elsewhere on account of leakage

Feb. 22
The sisters prepare a dinner for 75 students of St Paul's school Concord, N.H. (New Hampshire)

The party anticipated failed to appear on account of snow-blocked roads.

Feb. 23
Similar arrangements repeated to-day but no boys Students come.

Mar. 1.
Laundry work performed with a scant supply of water. Both cisterns & pipes frozen.

Brethren commence sawing wood by Horse "Tread-Mill" stationed in door yard North of buildings. Wood thus sawed distributed at once to shops & dwellings this season.

147

1875

Current Events

Mar. 8
Recently purchased. A "Font of music type" and a small printing "Press" for printing hymns and songs, original, used at home instead of each singer copying with pen and ink. Later, a pamphlet of sixteen pages was printed containing Shaker melodies interspersed with remarks upon the Shaker belief.

Mar. 9
Spring water failing, pond water is admitted into the aqueducts connected with the Kitchen Laundry and elsewhere. The water is propelled from the pond by a Force pump stationed at the "Clothier's Mill." When the ponds are low and covered with ice water is a failure again and water has to be transported from the lower "Well."—Cattle supplied at said "Well." The ground eventually froze to such a depth that the pipes burst and the soil above had to be blasted before the leaky pipes could be reached.

Mar. 10
St. Paul students of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) arrive to enjoy the long anticipated dinner & recreation. They dine in large "Dining Hall" of House D.

Mar. 11
Ground frozen again—water-pipes burst.

Mar. 22
This eve. Mrs. Hardy a spiritualistic medium is permitted to exhibit her mediumistic powers. (Quite too mythical.)

148

1875

Current Events

Mar.
Elder Harvey L. Eads arrives from South Union Ky. (Kentucky) is a leading Elder in the Order of Ministry at that place. While with us, he gave by invitation, an able discourse upon "Consecration" as viewed by a Believer's stand-point.

Mar. 27.
The Kentucky Trio leave for home via. Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) taking in Mt. Leb. N.Y. (New York) with other Shaker societies on their journey. Names of said trio Eld. Harvey L. Eads , Jane Cowan and Mary Clark.

Apr. 2
Elder Henry C. Blinn is appointed S.S. Com. of three school districts in Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire) Wm. Stirling is chosen for Surveyor of highways this year.

Apr. 3
A Frenchman named Maillard, a Canadian Bible agent, calls here to ascertain some facts about Shakers and Shakerism. Has two sons & three daughters for which he is desirous of obtaining a home. The eldest, a girl of 16 yrs. They all speak French and can converse with us by signs only.

Note.— During the past winter a few pupils have taken lessons in French & German under J. H. Hartley 's tuition.

Lessons were given in French previously by Fannie White a resident of Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) —

Apr. 12.
Wm. G. Libbey leaves this morn for Albany (Albany, New York) to meet Eld. Harvey L. Eads and sisters, will accompany them to Watervliet (Watervliet, New York) and thence to Sou. Un. Ky. (Kentucky) to make his home

149

1875

Current Events

Apr. 18
Sab. morn. services held at Ancient Church (Meeting House) for the first time since Nov. last. Meetings have been held in House D. No. 38—during the cold term.

Apr. 26
Thomas Anderson is appointed to take Wm. Stirling 's trade at "Clothiers' Mill," and also to take charge of Steam Engine at Laundry

Apr. 30
The Y.M.C.A. commence a series of religious meetings, continuing three days. Our people were in attendance at those held at the Baptist Church, Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire)

At the Branch

Sisters' Brick Shop is occupied by several older sisters, at this date.

Apr. 1875
Carpets are being woven here also, by Rebecca A. Adams

May 13
Fire caught in the under-brush west of our ox pasture from Geo. Peverly 's burning brush in the lot adjoining. The Lake Woods were also fired in its passage through a belt of evergreens. The wind being strong the fire spread rapidly from West to East. Brethren, sisters and friendly neighbors assisted in fighting the flames which were fortunately extinguished in two or three hours, or after having reached the Western boundary of the Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) road.

150

1875

Current Events

May 13.
We learn from report that the society of Shakers at Tyringham Mass. (Massachusetts) is dissolved;—their numbers being reveived at Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) & Hancock, Mass. (Massachusetts)

The water which has hitherto been sealed by frost begins to flow through the various aqueducts.

May 19
"Dining Hall" in House D. vacated for repairs Wood-work & floors, to be re-painted. The Cook Room adjoining, is to be revised as well as repaired.

June 6
A meeting of Shakers was held in "Burleigh Hall" Franklin N.H. (New Hampshire) A delegation of twelve persons from Shaker Village (Shaker Village, New Hampshire) attend to take an active part.

June 8
Jessina Robinson an operative at the "Clothiers' Mill" severs the right index finger in the revolving machinery at Weaving Department.

June 11
A party of Shakers leave home to hold meetings on the ensuing Fri. Sat. Sab. & Mon. evenings, at Exeter Epping N.H. (New Hampshire) — Haverhill Mass (Massachusetts) , and Amesbury Mass. (Massachusetts) Delegates—Viz. Elder H. C. Blinn Jas. H. Hartley D. L. Perkins. Eldress J. J. Kaime A. J. Baker and A. C. Stickney . Return Wed. 16th inst.

151

1875

Current Events

June 21.
Photograph of the interior of Dining Hall taken by Willis Kimball of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) A view of the interior of the Church at Hill's Corner" (now "Uplands") is also taken. Familiarly known as the Worsted Church on account of its decorataions

Sab. July 11.
Fourteen delegates from Shaker Village (Shaker Village, New Hampshire) go to Laconia N.H. (New Hampshire) 12 miles distant to hold a meeting agreeably to the request of Laconia residents

Shakers attend a meeting held at the Baptist Chh. by "Young Men's Christian Association" Sixteen delegates accepted the invitation given by the Loudon people. The first instance on record for the past 70 yrs. where the residents of Loudon have solicited aid in worship.

July 18
A Shaker Meeting solicited by Chh members at Hill's Corner 18 delegates attend, with Elder H. C. Blinn as leader.

Aug. 1
The Singers meet in upper loft at School House to meet some Sabbath guests. viz. Revs. Tilden and Conger of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) with their especial friends.

152

1875

Current Events

Aug. 8
A company of delegates go to Belmont N.H. (New Hampshire) to hold a Shaker meeting at Riley's Hall viz. Eld. H. C. Blinn A. Y. Cochran T. Anderson W. E. Smith L. A. Shepard M. R. Hillsgrove E. M. Hillsgrove Emeline Kimball & others.

Aug. 10
James H. Dixon of N.H. (New Hampshire) comes to prospect for a home. Finally concluded to go elsewhere for recuperation as he was suffering from nervous prostration.

Aug. 17
A delegation to Pittsfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Viz. Eld. H. C. B. M. Crooker E. M. Hillsgrove M. L. Miller

Aug. 22
Shaker meeting solicited at Pittsfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Delegates viz. Eld. A. Perkins Eld. H. C. Blinn A. Y. Cochran , Dan'l. Perkins W. W. Baker L. A. Shepard S. Ceeley A. C. Stickney A. J. B. J. E. Ware , L. Forrest H. Taber .

Aug. 23.
Eldress Joanna J. Kaime & Eldress Dorothy A. Durgin go to Rockport Mass. (Massachusetts) to see Amelia Tait. They return the 28 Amelia accompanying.

Aug. 25
To Alton Bay (Alton Bay, New Hampshire) Camp Meeting" Eld. H. C. B. S. Wright and six sisters. A larger party from N. F. (North Family)

153

1875

Current Events

Aug. 26
To Camp Meeting Eld. A. Perkins Chas. Shepard & four sisters

Aug. 31
To Methodist's Camp meeting at the Wiers Eld. H. C. Blinn J. Sullivan Wright L. A. Shepard S. S. Woods Caswell sisters Marion Montague Lizzie C. Fish

The Church convenes at evening to listen to J. H. Hartley 's journal of his recent voyage from N.Y. (New York) to Liverpool Eng.

Sept. 3
Educational Convention at "Canterbury Center" in session once each month on Fri. evenings Eld. Henry C. Blinn with four brethren and four sisters attend

Sept. 14
Eld. Henry Blinn arrives from Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Two children from said place accompany him viz. James Chadwick ae 15 yrs. Ann E. Chadwick ae. 12 yrs.

Eld. H. Cummings comes from Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Gives a brief discourse in Public upon the text "Prove all things" He left for Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) (20th)

Sept. 19
Chas. A. Guilmette M.D. & companion arrive from Concord N.H. (New Hampshire)

Song rehearsal in upper loft of Dist. No. 8, conducted by Dr. C. A. Guilmette

154

1875

Current Events

Sep. 20
Elder Benjamin H. Smith returns from N. F. (North Family) eldership. Is appointed Trustee at Church Jas. S. Kaime assumes Eldership at N. F. (North Family) and leaves trustee' duties

Eldress Harriet March leaves eldership and assumes trustees' duties, or exchanges burdens with Philinda Miner

Sep. 21
Abbie Jenny Morton and a lady medium from Pittsfield N.H. (New Hampshire) give some manifestations at Trustees' Office in presence of a select company

Sep. 23
David Foster and companion come for a friendly visit D. has lived in town during the past 60 yrs. but this is his first call at the Village

Sep. 29
Geo. A. Lomas author of "Plain Talks" arrives from Watervliet N.Y. (New York) Delivers a public address on the Sabbath. Leaves for Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) Oct. 4

Oct. 6
Benjamin Cate of Loudon N.H. (New Hampshire) is very ill of Typhoid Fever. Eldress Dorothy Emeline Kimball & S. Ceeley go to minister to his needs. Brethren subsequently watch with him at night to relieve his family of some burden. He deceased on the eve. of the 6th Memorial services on the 8 The Shakers presence solicited Geo. Clark W. E. S. A. C. S. J. H. F. attend.

155

1875

Current Events

Oct. 17.
Elder Henry and three sisters go to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to prepare for a Shaker meeting at the Universalists' Church Delegates viz. Elder Henry Cumings B. H. Smith A. Y. Cochran , D. Perkins M. Whitcher A. C. Stickney M. R. Hillsgrove J. E. Ware A. J. Baker , E. E. Fitts . Services opened at 2.30 P.M. It was estimated that a thousand persons were present

Oct. 18
Dr. Chas. A Guilmette & H Guilmette of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) make a call The Singers convene at Office to confer with the Dr. who is a first class musician

Oct. 24
Three colored persons attended our Public Services, called for dinner at "Trustees' Office", and later, were escorted to House D. No. 34. where they entertained us with negro melodies.

Nov. 2
Mary Whitcher Rebecca Adams with J. S. Wright leave for Alfred (Alfred, Maine) & Gloucester Me. (Maine) Take their own team having business in Gonic.

Nov. 9
Fire at Gloucester Me. (Maine) "Shakers' Lumber Mill" destroyed. Cause, carelessness of hired help.

Nov. 4
N. A. Briggs goes to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to meet Henry Vincent, a noted English lecturer, writer and philanthropist. Although 70 yrs. of age is still an able lecturer.

156

1875

Current Events

Nov. 4
Benjamin Cate of Loudon N.H. (New Hampshire) deceased

Memorial services were held on the 6th inst. Shaker's aid solicited at memorial services.

Geo. Clark Walter E. Smith A. C. Stickney & J. H. Fish responded by singing appropriate funeral pieces His sons asked for the Shaker hymn entitled "Christ's Sufferings"

Nov. 18
Elder Robert Aitken of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) is here Calls at the Bakery to teach his method of molding doughs and making bunns he having been a professional Baker in the old country.

1875
Colorado admitted as a state at the close of 43 sessions of Congress.

Crops. of 1875 Farm potatoes bushels 1600
Garden potatoes bushels 200
Mangel Wurtzels bushels 340
One single Sugar beet measured 2 ft. in length and weighed 15 lbs.

Nov. 10
New Note
First snow storm this season Oct. 31 1875 First snow storm this season Nov. 20 1874

157

Current Events

1876

Jan. 1
Report of an incendiary fire at Union Village Ohio The cow barn was destroyed with a year's provision for 22 cows and 14 head of young cattle.

Jan. 7
Hannah Wilson goes to Maine on a canvassing tour in behalf of "Manifesto" Ret. Feb. 11_

Jan. 16
A delegation of 13 Shakers 5 brethren 8 sisters attend religious services at Hill's Corner by invitation.

Feb. 6
A meeting at Hill's Corner. By solicitation, several Shakers attend viz. Elder H. C. Blinn N. A. Briggs Thos. Evans D. Perkins W. E. Smith S. S. Woods A. C. Stickney A. J. Baker D. T. Cochran E. E. Fitts L. Forest J. Forrest H. Tabor J. H. Fish

Feb. 18
William G. Libbey arrives from South Union Ky. (Kentucky) to rejoin his associates in Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire) which place he left Apr. 12 1875 with a view to secure firmer health by sojourning in a milder climate

March 1 Eld. H. C. Blinn and three sisters go to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to attend the Dedication of a Church. Invited by Rev. Benj. D. Ayres .

March 10 N. A. Briggs returns from Phila. Penn. where he had been to introduce the "Shaker Washing Machine" at the Centennial Exhibition of 1876. It is to be operated in "Machinery Hall."

158

1876

Current Events

Mar. 20.
Brethren tap the Maples at the Sugar Orchard Wm. Libbey and Thos. Evans in charge of the business The sugar harvest closes Apr. 25. 418 bbls. secured

Mar. 24
Mary Whitcher & co. (company) go to Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) to canvass for the Shaker

April 3
Eldress J. J. Kaime and Martha Perkins go to Dr. Guilmette 's at Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) to care for H. Guilmette who is seriously ill. Eldress Dorothy S. S. Woods & S. C. Hall pay a brief visit to the patient

April 15
Nancy J. Caswell goes toConcord (Concord, New Hampshire) with her father, to be treated by Dr. C. A. Guilmette O. Caswell is to pay the doctor's bill

April 23
Ranks of Brethren and Sisters in all assemblies now range from East to West instead of from North to South as formerly In other words the audience faces the North The Leaders face the South

May 3
Nicholas A. Briggs leaves for Phila. Penn. to care for the "Shaker Washing Machine" at the opening of the "Centennial Exhibition"

159

1876

Current Events

May 5
Thomas Evans leaves for Liverpool Eng. Will take passage in the Steamer (Heckla) (Fare $28.00.) B. H. Smith accompanies him as far as Boston Mass. (Massachusetts)

May 23
Five cherry trees have been set in the yard around the Ancient Church (Meeting House) . Some pear trees set in front lawn in addition to a row of Norway spruces placed there a few years previous

May 28
Sabbath, a company of Shaker attend the Young Men's Christian Association at " Hill's Corner" at evening.

May 18.
News of the serious illness of Dr. R. P. J. Tenny is received M. Crooker goes to Pittsfield N.H. (New Hampshire) to assist in taking care of the Patient. Geo. Moore goes to also to be his immediate nurse

May 20.
Elder H. C. B. Geo. Shepard ; Eldress D. A. Durgin & S. Ceeley make a brief call agreeably to the Dr's request. Several other Shaker friends visited him in his last illness. He deceased on the 21st inst. Memorial services held on the 22 Eld. A. Perkins J. S. Wright M. E. Hastings S. Lowd S. Ceeley & M. Crooker attended as mourners to represent the sympathy and respect of the Shaker Church for the deceased

160

1876

June Current Events

June 9
William A. Hinds of the Oneida (Oneida, New York) Community arrives His mission is to investigate & compare the Shaker religion with Oneida (Oneida, New York) views. attends Public worship on Sabbath,

A circular is subsequently received from Mt. Leb. N.Y. (New York) cautioning Believers to hold no fellowship with said Community nor write for their papers.

June 11
Shaker meeting held in Barnstead N.H. (New Hampshire) by solicitation. Four brethren and six sisters make up a delegation

June 13
Nancy G. Danforth and Julia J. Briggs go to Meredith (Meredith, New Hampshire) to canvass for the "Shaker"

Summer Term of school opens Teachers A. C. Stickney L. J. Forest

A new pump has been adjusted in Dairy

July 6
Charles Shepard moves from the Church to the North Family to take charge of the farm John W. Bardsley moves from North to Church

July 10
A few sisters lodge at Branch Office it having been vacated some weeks. It proved very unhealthy owing to the mold accumulated while unoccupied

July 11
A party of young men & boys arrive from Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) to entertain us with a musical concert Willis Kimball Director J. A. Morey pianist

161

1876

Current Events

Aug. 3.
Warren K. Day aConcord (Concord, New Hampshire) musician calls upon us with his wife and little son Arthur. By invitation gives a musical entertainment at the School House Plays several pieces on the organ while Arthur accompanies his father with the flute

J. E. Ware goes to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to care for her aged mother's property

Aug. 7.
Susan C. Hall leaves Deaconess' burdens to become associate Eldress. Elizabeth Martin and J. J. Briggs deaconesses

Aug. 26
Elder Caleb Dyer of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) reported dangerously ill. Eld. A. Perkins goes to see him

Aug. 3
Ministry leave for Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) accompanied by Louise Forest who is to assist in dress-making at N. Fam. (North Family)

September 7
A Drought prevails. Cause, long continued heat (sans) rain The Mill-ponds are so low, that grain has to be transported five miles away for grinding._ To get lumber sawed it has to be drawn 10 miles to Fisherville N.H. (New Hampshire)

September 8
The needed rain is falling

September 14
N. A. Briggs A. Y. Cochran Geo. Shepard leave for a trip to Phila. Penn. They are to be present at the Centennial Celebration of the Amer. Independence & hope to get valuable ideas concerning various industries They meet Eld. Otis Sawyer & Eld. Jno. Vance of Me. (Maine) Caroline Whitcher Maria Cady & Jno. Cumings of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) (They return Sept. 24th)

162

1876

Current Events

Sept. 26
J. Sullivan Wright Mary Whitcher S. S. Woods Sally Ceeley F. E. Myers H. P. Shepard leave for York Beach Me. (Maine) This party was invited by A. Leavens of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to occupy a cottage there owned by him gratis. They furnished themselves with staples, & performed their own cooking Take a carriage and one span of horses. (Ret. Oct. 10) N Fam (North Family)

October 19
Eldress P. Miner leaves Elder's burdens at N Fam (North Family) and moves to Branch to be Matron Sister Harriet Hastings accompanies her. Caroline Leonard leaves N. F. (North Family) to be chief cook at Branch Elizabeth Stickney leaves Branch for N Fam (North Family) Office Harriet March re-installed Eldress at N Family (North Family)

October 24
Sarah Amelia Crooker formerly of Min. Order (Ministry) spent a few months at the Branch with a view to recover her health subsequently returned to Infirmary at Church. Adazillah Potter went to Branch in Sarah's stead.

October 27.
Eldress J. J. Kaime E. F. Hall Flora A. Williams & N. A. Briggs leave for Phila. Penn. to be present at Centennial Celebration, to which every civilized nation had contributed works of art as well as the choicest productions of Nature

Nov. 1
Delegates to Centennial, Eld. H. C. B. B. H. S. Eldress E. A. Stratton Elizabeth Martin . (ret. Nov. 11th)

163

1876

Current Events

November 5
A Shaker meeting held at Barnstead N.H. (New Hampshire) by invitation of the town's people Delegates. viz: J. S. Wright L. A. Shepard Edna E. Fitts L. Clapp Edith and Cleora Caswell_ Oliver Caswell also present.

November 6
Boys' Winter school opens. Wm. Briggs assistant Teacher. A. C. Stickney in charge. (Pupils no. 13) in Church, W. W. Briggs leaves school three weeks previous to close of the term. News of Eldress Eliza Ann Taylor 's illness is received & W. W. Briggs goes toMt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) to visit the sick, and recover his former health by the change.

November 13
Elder Abraham Perkins goes to Gloucester Me. (Maine) to care for Bro. Thomas Stedman of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) who is reported very ill and unable to transact the business for which he made the journey Eld. B. H. Smith goes to Gloucester (Gloucester, Maine) also to assist Bro. Thomas on his journey home and purchase some neat stock which Thos. had engaged. They return via Alfred reaching home the 19th Nov.

November 25.
Emily F. Hall moves to N Fam. (North Family) to become associate Eldress with Eldress Harriet March Sarah Libbey moves to Office from Elder's Order. Office tenants E. Stickney & Sarah Barker.

November 24
Hannah Wilson of N. F. (North Family) goes to Meredith N.H. (New Hampshire) to sojourn for a time, to prevent her two daughters from leaving their Shaker home agreeably to the wish of their father, who subsequently returned to N. F. (North Family) and embraced the testimony.

164

1876

Current Events

Dec. 2
N. A. Briggs goes to Mt. Morris N.Y. (New York) to settle the yearly accounts. Calls at Groveland (Groveland, New York) Watervliet N.Y. (New York) and Enfield N.Y. (New Hampshire) arrived home Dec. 22 1876

Dec. 20
The brethren cleanse the cisterns in North Orchard or the reservoirs which receive the pond water that is forced from the pond to the summit of the hill by a "Hydraulic Force Pump" located in the basement of Clothiers' Mill. From these reservoirs the water is conducted through a system of subterranean aqueducts to Kitchens Laundry & barns. It is stated that 14 inches of debris had accumulated in the cistern previous to the cleaning.

Dec. 21
Ice harvest concluded. 1300 cakes 12x14x14 were secured.

The music for Shaker Manifesto is to be set and printed at East Canterbury (East Canterbury, New Hampshire) during the year 1877 There is no music printed in this State aside from that performed at Shaker Village (Shaker Village, New Hampshire) .

The Shaker Manifesto of present date arrives from Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) in folio sheets just as it leaves the Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) Press. It was formerly folded in quarto form, with leaves neatly fastened at the back trimmed and covered. It requires one day & one half for three persons to fold stitch & cover the same. 3000 sheets are to be put in quarto form 500 of these are to be superscribed & wrapped for subscribers.

165

1877

Current Events

January 23
the "Shaker" which was formerly edited by Geo. A. Lomas of Watervliet N.Y. (New York) at printed at Albany (Albany, New York) , is to be printed at Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) by Chas. H. Pierson Ed. of "The People." The cover with advertisements added last year is omitted for 1877, and one column added to each page, eight pages pr. month

Music set at our Office will be sent toBoston (Boston, Massachusetts) to be stereotyped and returned toConcord (Concord, New Hampshire) to head the last page of sheet. Subscription price same as last year 60 cts.

February 2.
Elder H. C. Blinn goes to Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) to attend Revival meetings presided over by Moody & Sankey from thence to Newburyport (Newburyport, Massachusetts) to meet Jas. H. Hartley

February 22.
St. Paul pupils from Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) come to dine at Shaker Village (Shaker Village, New Hampshire) walk over the premises and have a candy feast.

February 26
Elder Jno. Kaime of North Family deceased ae 85 yrs. Memorial Services held Mar. 1. Sixteen members from the Chh in attendance Services led by Elder H. C. Blinn

March 7.
Benj. H. Smith & A. Y. Cochran go to Boston Mass (Massachusetts) to purchas a wood-splitting machine. Cost of machine ($175) The brethren attend one or more Moody & Sankey meetings

166

1877

Current Events

March 17
Benj. H. Smith goes to Montreal, Canada to purchas a span of horses for Trustee's use. ( Chas. Rafferty office teamster) accompanies him. They return the 24 with a fine span for which they paid $150
Bought a threshing machine @ $195
Horse power machine @ $226
Paper Cutter @ $150
Total $571 150 731

March 19
The dishes sinks in Bakery are removed to repair the wood work through which monstrous rats have gnawed their way. Repairs required three days of hard labor by two men. April 3, the Bakery was vacated to be repaired throughout.

March 21.
The Sou. East room Second loft of Brethrens' South Shop is to be vacated for the reception of the Printing works. The apparatus for broom making is to be transferred to (House P.) or (Brns' Back Shop, formerly (Herb Shop)

The printing works once occupied the N.E. Room on lower loft of Brns' North or Farmers' Shop. It was so illy lighted for type setting that it was difficult to perform the work creditably

In earlier days said room belonged to the medical department where their stores were kept These however were removed to a chamber in Sec. loft of Yellow Building. (House Y.)

167

1877

Current Events

April 3
Bakery newly painted white-washed throughout Bread baking performed in Cook room Pies are to be nowhere for the present. Sauce made at Laundry Vegetable cellar re-lime washed. Dining Room tables re-varnished.

Some home woven carpets furnished various rooms in House D. Woven by Sister R. A. Adams & S. F. Wilson at the Branch

April 4
Wood splitter adjusted at Wood Mill formerly known as Bark Mill

April 7.
Elder H. Cummings of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) arrives. Is agent for the sale of the biblical & historical Chart. Delineations and references from the time of Adam down through the centuries to 1871. By request he entertained our Society by lectures & explanations concerning said Chart which measured 21 ft. long & 3 ft. wide Author Sebastian C. Adams of Salem Oregon (price $12.00) This family purchased a Chart

April 13
An Educational Convention at Town Hall "Canterbury Center" Five brethren & Seven sisters attend to a lecture given by Geo. H. Jenness of Portsmouth N.H. (New Hampshire)

April 23
Eld. H. C. Blinn W. W. Briggs E. F. Hall M. H. Caswell attend the memorial services of Anne Lovering at Baptist Chh. Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire) who deceased on the 21, ae 19 yrs. had been a school teacher in the town several terms.

168

1877

Current Events

April 23
J. Sullivan Wright goes to Gonic N.H. (New Hampshire) to assist Peter Paxton & family in moving to a little cottage near our Carding Wool Factory. S returns the 24th with the family and appurtenances

April 24
Benj. H. Smith goes to Boston Mass (Massachusetts) to purchase dry goods

Wood-splitting in successful operation to-day It splits a bolt on each side alternately & requires two men to attend it. Is warranted to split 20 cords in a day. The sisters repair to the Wood-mill by invitation to witness the operation of the new machine. It seemingly splits a bolt as easily as one would slice a cheese.

April 27
Eld. Abraham with N. L. Wilson S. F. Wilson to Meredith (Meredith, New Hampshire) to see their parents, Peter & H. Wilson

May 1
Circular letters are sent to the various societies soliciting judgment about changing the form of the the Shaker periodical to pamphlet size, similar to Harpers Monthly" asking financial aid also from each Society for its material as well as intellectual support

May 7
It is proposed to print hymns & sacred pieces sung in public worship so that our listeners who are to have copy past them can better understand our religious sentiments

May 5
Thos. Evans leaves for Liverpool Eng. Takes passage in the Massachusetts (fare $28.00)

169

1877

Current Events

May 8th
Summer School opens. Teachers J. Forest S. F. Wilson (A.C.S. Supervisor)

May 12
Brethren complete the task of splitting bolts into fuel with the new wood splitter. They having sawed 1620 logs into bolts and split the same into fuel in three weeks time

Peter A. Wilson returns to North Family to live after an absence of some months.

June 1.
N. A. Briggs leaves for Mt. Morris N.Y. (New York) having learned that a disastrous fire had consumed the broom corn, barn and stock on our Farm in that locality. ( Eld. B. H. Smith assumes Eldership at Nor. Fam. Cany N.H. (New Hampshire) )

29
Eld. A. Perkins leaves Min. Order (Ministry) for Eldership at Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Eld. O. Dyer takes Trusteeship

July 5
A newer Mowing Machine purchased called the Buck-eye @ $85.00 & Thrushing Machine @ $195.75)

17
Nancy G. Danforth & Julia J. Briggs go to Meredith (Meredith, New Hampshire) and vicinity to canvass for the "Shaker" J. S. Wright accompanies with team. Returns next day. The sisters remain.

18
A Sewing Circle is formed at Ironing Room lasting from four to eight days to make boys' clothes. Laundry soap hard and soft made by Laundresses.

July 20
Julia J. Briggs and A. Richardson go to Newburyport (Newburyport, Massachusetts) and Haverhill Mass. (Massachusetts) on a canvassing tour: obtain 20 subscriptions for "Manifesto."

170

1877

Current Events

Note.
On July 1st it was announced that Elder Giles B. Avery would speak in Church at East Canterbury (East Canterbury, New Hampshire) , consequently posters were printed and distributed in neighboring towns A postal rec'd from Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) soliciting dinner for 80 persons Rainy weather prevailed and only 3 or 4 friendly neighbors came to listen Elder Giles addressed the Shaker audience one hour, and a satisfactory service of two hours and ten minutes was realized

Prayer service at eve Whole order of ministry present

August 2
Elmira Hillsgrove & Elizabeth Martin leave for a canvassing tour at Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) and other cities in Me. (Maine) and Mass. (Massachusetts)

Sister Mary Whitcher returns after a two months sojourn at Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) North Adams Mass (Massachusetts) Hancock Mass (Massachusetts) & Mt Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) North Family Returned May 24.

August 14
Lucy A. Shepard & H. Taber go to Nashua N.H. (New Hampshire) to canvass for the "Shaker" Return 25th 21 subscriptions

August 21
Camp meeting at Wier's Landing held by Methodists Two brethren nine sisters from Church attend

August 28
B. H. Smith & A. Y. C. go to inspect a horse power apparatus

171

1877

Current Events

September 4.
A party go to the Temperance Camp Meeting at the "Wiers"

September 7
To the "Wiers" again Eld. H. C. Blinn S. Wright an six young sisters Return Sat. noon

September 10
Howard Kimball an artist from Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) comes to take stereoscopic views of our Village and surrounding scenery from various points Photos in groups and individual photos were taken also. 30 "Views" were obtained by the artist

September 22
Summer School opens. Teachers A. C. S. & L. J. F. Pupils, 17.

September 23
The Society convenes at Ancient Chh. (Meeting House) to listen to a Temperance lecture by Saml. B. Page , who is traveling thro' the country visiting churches and schools, to obtain signatures to Temperance pledges of three grades Viz. To abstain from intoxicating liquors, tobacco in every form and profane language. (Sept. 26, Sophia Lowd & M. Tatterton go to Harvard (Harvard, Massachusetts) & Shirley Mass. (Massachusetts) )

October 2
Eld. H. C. Blinn N. A. Briggs Flora Williams and M. Louisa Wilson go toBoston (Boston, Massachusetts) on business concerning type setting &c. for the "Shaker." The sisters learn how to set type more dexterously

October 6.
Temperance lectures given at our Church this eve. by reformers Viz. John W. Drew, Frank G. Allen and Addison D. Welch of Prov. R.I. (Rhode Island) Jas. E. Roberts

172

1877

Current Events

October 9
Eldress D. A. Durgin L. A. Shepard and Agnes Newton go to Nashua N.H. (New Hampshire) to take part in lectures at the Woman's Convention Eldress D returns to Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) with Armenia White to aid in Temperance meeting at Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) L. A. S. & A. E. N. remain at N. to canvass for the "Shaker"

October 18
Convention at "Canterbury Center" N.H. (New Hampshire) to listen to a lecture by S. L. Blake of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) subject "Ireland"

October 23
Temperance meeting in Belmont N.H. (New Hampshire) this eve. Six brethren and ten sisters from the Church attend & take part Elder H. C. B. leading speaker

( Benj Cate of Loudon N.H. (New Hampshire) Dec. Memorial 6th inst. Shakers attend)

November 4.
Sun. morn worship to be conducted the same as those held at the Church for the Public through the Summer ie. The service is opened by reading some selection from the New Testament Hymn is read alternate singing and speaking by various members fills the hour.

( Henry Vincent and Eng. lecturer speaks to us this eve (Nov. 5) ae 70 yrs)

November 13
Elder H. C. Blinn D. L. Perkins E. Martin A. J. B. E. E. Fitts & I. Woodbury go to Ashland N.H. (New Hampshire) to act a part in the Temperance meeting to be held at eve. Eld H. Cumings of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) joins this party and gave the first lecture after being introduced by Eld. H. C. Blinn .

173

1877

Current Events

November 14.
Eldress Joanna J. Kaime Eld. Harriet March & J. S. Wright go to Barnstead N.H. (New Hampshire) on a mission

18
Four brethren and sixteen sisters go to North Family to greet its members with music speeches, &c

20
Elder H. C. Blinn goes to Baptist Church Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) to give a lecture on South America, SA Indians their customs ceremonies rites & & Shaker Choir adds music to aid the speaker

22
Y.M.C.A. held a meeting at Sch House Dist. No. 9. under the auspices of Second Adventism Three brethren and five sisters attend from Shaker Chh.

25
Elder H. C. B. Ellen Myres & J. H. Fish go to Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) to attend the Revivalists Meetings by Needham and Cate, apostles of Moody & Sankey .

28
An organ is hired (pro. tem.) for use in Dist. No. 8. The organ usually kept there, has been transported to House D. No. 34, to accompany Song Rehearsals. Wed. eve. this same instrument is trundled into No. 38, for special use. after which it is returned to its appropriate niche in No. 34.

174

1877

Current Events

December 6
The pages of Jan. Shaker Manifesto in form are, at present date taken to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to be printed by steam power the Office of "The People" the same as last years—types set here The Shaker Manifesto for Jan. is a pamphlet of twenty four pages The cover is devoted to advertisements of various kinds

December 21
Fifty five Comfortables for beds have been made within three weeks by a party of young sisters Homemade duffels with colored borders are also furnished

25 Christmas The family was greeted at breakfast by the singing of our little boy pupils. A duet composed for the occasion Ellsworth Chaffee ae 7 yrs. the youngest of the group marked the time very accurately by beating a small drum, for the boys as they marched and countermarched around the Dining Hall, waving their banner of evergreen. Boys' Teachers presided viz. A. C. S. & J. F.

Dec. 28
M. W. J. J. Briggs go to Tilton N.H. (New Hampshire) to canvass for Manifesto

175

1878

Current Events

January 1.
Opens with renewed zeal in canvassing for "Shaker Manifesto"

January 3
M. R. Hillsgrove and I. Woodbury go to Lowell Mass. (Massachusetts) to canvass for "Manifesto" 27 subscriptions

J. Sullivan Wright to Suncook (Suncook, New Hampshire) & Allenstown (Allenstown, New Hampshire)

J. E. Ware & H. A. Johns to Loudon Center" 5 sub after entering every house in the village blacksmith's shops not excepted

January 8
A Petition to Congress to pass a law prohibiting the sale of spirituous liquors is presented us to sign This law is to go into effect A.D. 1900. Our names were cheerfully added to the long list.

Julia Ann Briggs and A. Richardson of N. F. (North Family) return after a four weeks absence for canvassing in Prov. R.I. (Rhode Island) and Newport (Newport, Rhode Island) , as well

January 9
J. E. Ware H. A. Johns go to " Hill's Corner" (5 sub.!)

January 15
E. M. Hillsgrove & J. E. Ware go to Fisherville N.H. (New Hampshire) canvassing (5 subscribers!)

January 23
E. F. Hall and M. Johnson go to Haverhill Mass. (Massachusetts) obtain 14 subscriptions

Elder H. C. Blinn (with eight delegates) goes to Gilmanton Academy by request of the School to give a lecture from biblical chart this eve. They encountered high winds and slippery walking. Remained over night

January 29
Annual State Musical Convention at Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) Eld. D. A. Durgin E. E. Fitts E. Ferguson L. Forest J. Forest attend 3 days.

176

1878

Current Events

January 31.
Nicholas A. Briggs A. C. Stickney A. E. Newton M. L. Miller attend closing exercises of musical convention. The whole party returns Feb. 1

February 1
A. Y. Cochran & Herbert Bacon go to Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) with large double sleigh to convey the party of singers in the midst of a furious snow storm taking snow shovels with to facilitate breaking the roads on the way

Feb. 5
J. S. Wright goes to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to canvass for "Manifesto", 36 subscriptions

7
Mrs. Drury M.D. of Haverhill Mass. (Massachusetts) with husband, tarry at N Fam. (North Family) a few days

Luther Sargent comes to solicit a summary history of the Shaker Society in Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) to add to a treatise prepared by himself of the early settlers at Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) , which he intends reading at a Hackleborough, Entertainment Dist. No.

Feb. 16
Temperance Lecture at Tilton (Tilton, New Hampshire) by Eld. H. C. B

Feb. 21
Boys School closed Feb. 21. 13 pupils Teachers A. C. S. A. E. W.

27
Eldress E. A. Stratton goes to Sec. Fam. (Second Family) Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) to assume Eldress duties in place of Eldress Mary Jane and Charlotte Hart who are both seriously ill.

Sullivan Wright (with a party of six sisters goes to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to return borrowed organ

Rehearsal of musical drill by the singers who attended the musical convention in Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) to show with what precision the director L. O. Emerson drilled his choir

177

1878

Current Events

March 7
The wood-work of Ancient Church (Meeting House) re-painted a lighter shade of blue than the original, or first coat.

Elder H. C. Blinn gives a lecture from Biblical Chart this eve.

March 11
Brethren tap the sugar maples near the Camp 500 trees, 900 buckets so adjusted as to secure the sap. W. Wm. Briggs chief manager. Two or three boys assist. Two sisters go daily to cook and take care of house &c A. C. S. & C. M. Newhall cooks.

March 20
Willis Kimball Photographic artist comes from Concord, N.H. (New Hampshire) to take exterior and interior Views of the Sugar Camp and scenery in its vicinity

A perpendicular ledge of rock in the forest near, furnished one romantic picture on account of the depending fringe of icicles which resembled a fringe of glass.

March 21
Angeline Clifford and L. Clapp go to Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) to see about folding and stitching pamphlets similar in size to "Shaker Manifesto"

March 29
Eld. H. C. Blinn H. P. Shepard J. E. Ware go to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) with A. Y. Cochran & L. Caswell They witnessed some curious sleight of hand performances by one Cecil & co. (company) of N.Y. (New York) in perfect imitation of spirit materialization designed as an exposé The three attended service on the Sabbath and took an active part in speaking & singing

178

1878

Current Events

April 19.
Social School first started Exercises take the form of miniature lectures viz. "Temperance Vs. Intemperance" by A. Y. Cochran "Rules for and process of House cleaning" pr. L. A. Shepard . "Proper care of leather shoes" by Julia J. Briggs , "Faithfulness in common duties" A. B. Clifford

April 23
Olive M. Libbey & M. Crooker go to minister temporary relief to Dr. Isaac French of Loudon N.H. (New Hampshire) who is suffering from Diphtheria ae 44 yrs He died at Loudon Ridge Apr. 29, 1878. Had been our Family Physician and proved himself a worthy medical adviser

Elder H. C. Blinn and two sisters attended the memorial services which were observed in the Chh. where Elder Harvey a Pittsfield (Pittsfield, Massachusetts) pastor presides

April 29
A copy of each of the Publications issued by Believers have been solicited by one Dawson a N.Y. (New York) publisher. The same were collected by Trustees and forwarded.

April 30
" Cooley's Patent Creamer," has been purchased and put into Dairy. Water had been conducted into this creamery thro. a branch aqueduct so that the water can flow in when desirable and keep the milk at the right temperature for the cream to rise.

179

1878

Current Events

May 3
Lecture at Baptist Church by Gov. Harriman Two large parties of Brethren and Sisters attend from the Church, at "Shaker Village"

Summer School opens with 14 pupils Teachers L. J. Forest & S. F. Wilson Supervisor A. C. S. S. S. Com. L. Sargent S. C. Hall released from Eldership A. B. Clifford successor. S. goes to Infirmary as assistant nurse

May 10
Kneeland Codman, who chanced to call this way is employed to paint the wood work in the interior of " Ancient ChurchMeeting House ." The wall seats have been removed walls lime-washed & wood-work painted a much paler shade of blue than formerly, window sashes re-painted settees revarnished The Porch on East side shared the same renovation

This was the first time the interior had been renewed since the house was builded A period of 86 yrs!

May 16
Eld. Henry Cumings and a company of Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) visitors arrive Elder H. C. Lectures from Historical chart

June 13.
Eld. Frederic Evans & Emil Bretzner arrive from N Family (North Family) Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) via. Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire)

Sullivan Wright S. Lowd A. C. Stickney and H. P. Shepard go to meet them as escorts to the Church Eld. Frederic & Emil leave on the 18 inst for Harvard Mass. (Massachusetts)

180

1878

Current Events

June 13
Harriet L. Guilmette arrives with her two youngest pupils Louise and Regina from Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) H intends to give vocal lessons as a return for kindness received during a severe illness—They left, Nov. 9, for Lowell Mass. (Massachusetts)

17.
Olive M. Libbey and Nancy G. Danforth go to Meredith N.H. (New Hampshire) to canvass for the Shaker Manifesto

18
Eld. F. W. Evans and E. Bretzner leave for home Eld. H. C. Blinn Eldress Dorothy & F. Williams accompany them as far as Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) Return next day having purchased an organ of Warren K. Day for Flora 's use with means furnished by her uncle for the purpose.

June 24
Two young women from Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) come to teach sisters the best method of book folding

June 27
An entertainment (or Pic nic) given at the "Threshing Floor" near Bark Mill pond to Mt. Leb. (Mount Lebanon, New Hampshire) visitors

June 30
Willis Kimball Photographer of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) was granted permission to secure a photograph of the congregation of strangers in attendance on public worship after the services had closed Teams halted in the lane by request of said artist, and picture was secured.

181

1878

Current Events

July 2
Temperance Camp Meetings commenced at the Winnipesawki (Winnipesawki, New Hampshire) Camp Ground "Wier's Landing" N.H. (New Hampshire) It is to be in session four days but our people do not attend on account of the intense heat of the atmosphere with other causes.

July 5
To Providence R.I. (Rhode Island) Mary Whitcher & J. E. Ware for missionary purposes

July 6
Eld. H. C. Blinn goes to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to arrange for Shaker delegates at Universalist's Church on the 7th inst Sullivan Wright accompanies him to return with team

July 7
Eld. H. C. B. proceeds to Manchester N.H. (New Hampshire) to take an active part in a Temperance Meeting in session D. L. Perkins J. H. Fish L. J. Forest accompany to sing

July 13
Several days are occupied by sisters in harvesting Raspberries at "Hollow Route"

July 18
To Unitarian Camp Meeting at the "Wiers" Delegates Eld. H. C. B. S. Lowd I. H. Taber

20
To U. C. M. Eld H. C. B. D. L. Perkins Eldress J. J. K. E. M. Hillsgrove . O. L. Shepard and I. Olney

July 23
Fannie White ends a sojourn of 12 days in teaching Music and French. She was an accomplished pianist and linguist.

182

1878

Current Events

August 5
N. A. Briggs F. E. Myers and Co. go to Belmont N.H. (New Hampshire) to superintend the adjustment of a " Cooley Creamer" N. A. B. being an agent for its sale This season records the largest amount of well cured hay every stored in our long barn owing to favorable weather for hay making.

August 6
An intellectual entertainment was held at our Ancient Chh. (Meeting House) by the sisters to celebrate Mother Ann 's landing in America with her little band Many letters addressed to the Sen. class of sisters were read songs and speeches improvised for the occasion were also given by the youthful classes.

August 14
Prof. Perkins of Lebanon N.H. (New Hampshire) arrives for a brief tarry. He has been a long-time friend of Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) Shakers often conducting their song Rehearsals

August 15
Prof. Perkins leads our choir this eve.

August 21
Lucy A. Shepard Philinda Miner and L. F. Willard go to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) on a visit and also to learn of the merits of a rotary oven built in their recently finished new dwelling

N. A. Briggs & A. Y. Cochran go to N.H. (New Hampshire) on same errand as above noticed

183

1878

Current Events

Aug. 27
A Pic Nic' held in a grove at Northfield N.H. (New Hampshire) by Sunday School pupils. An invitation being extended by the supervisors, to the Shakers accept. Represented by Eld. H. C. Blinn Wm. Briggs A. C. Stickney A. B. C. and several pupils from Dist. No. 8.

September 8
"An Adventist Grove meeting" near Northfield (Northfield, New Hampshire) Depot in session this AM Several brethren and sisters attend

A concert at Hill's Corner is attended in the evening by members of the Shaker Choir

September 10
James M. Peebles arrives via. Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Gives a lecture before the Society at the Ancient Church (Meeting House) , in regard to his recent travels around the world. Described the habits and customs of various peoples in Australia New Zealand China, Ceylon India and other noted places.

September 11
The lecturer gave a discourse upon Spiritualism in the evening following showing his belief in the positive existence of disembodied spirits, spirit influence and manifestation Both lectures were very entertaining

16
"A Rural Fair" or exhibition of home produce was arranged in upper loft of Sch. House by Eld. H. C. B. and aids— D. S. C. & E. E. F. It was open to visiots on Mon 23rd Sept. Friends & neighbors came in large parties having that is was free. A mistake (Fee 25 cts)

184

1878

Current Events

September 22
Public meeting crowded with respectable strangers Genl. Natt Head Col. Frank Allen and several others entertained with dinner. In the afternoon the singers met to sing to the visitors Col. Frank Allen favored the audience with a solo he having an exceptionally musical voice was able to give his friends a musical treat. Short speeches by our guests followed, these were subsequently escorted to the "Rural Fair"

" Lyford Editor of the "People" with Chas. Osgood were admitted later and took a list of articles there displayed

27.
Abbie G. Woolson of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) comes for a brief sojourn Tues. eve. Oct. 1. she gives a lecture upon the Big trees of California Yosemite valley before the Society

October 1

October 7.
A. G. Woolson gives a second lecture on English poets poetry literature &c.

October 22
Eld. H. C. Blinn goes to Providence R.I. (Rhode Island) to attend a Conference of Clergymen who are to engage in a discussion upon theology

23
Josephine Ware & H. A. Johns canvass "Loudon Center" for subscribers

Oct. 8.
Sullivan Wright , Geo. Clark , J. Woods , Wm. Woodbury , O. M. S. and S. C. Hall go to attend the "Manchester Fair".

185

1878

Current Events

October 28.
Cora M. Newhall & Mary H. Caswell go to Lowell Mass. (Massachusetts) with N. A. Briggs to learn to polish starched linen cuffs, collars, shirt bosoms, &c.

29
Prof. Joseph Perkins and wife call to see Helen who has been busy teaching music and drawing The Prof. directs the Song Rehearsal on three consecutive evenings. The leave for Leb. N.H. (New Hampshire) Nov.

November 4
M. R. Hillsgrove goes to Watervliet N.Y. (New York) thence toMt. Leb. (Mount Lebanon, New Hampshire) to spend the winter in teaching vocal and instrumental music

November 22
Julia Ann & Julia Jane Briggs go to Prov. R.I. (Rhode Island) to canvass for "Shaker Manifesto"

November 28
Bakery re-occupied by Bakers. the new rotary oven with iron disks or grated revolving disks, is now ready for use. The ceiling of said Bakery has been re-plastered, the wood-work re-painted.

186

1878

Current Events

December 1
By special invitation, Wm. W. Briggs A. C. Stickney E. D. Caswell Lilian Clapp attend Methodist services in Loudon N.H. (New Hampshire) Pastor Rev. Carter E. Cate . Attended prayer service at evening with Y.M.C.A.

December 6
Lecture at Union Hall," Canterbury Center by Eld. H. C. Blinn ,—subject Sou. Amer. Indians—Fifteen Shakers accompanied the speaker to add the music.

December 30
The pages for Shaker Manifesto" were set this year 1878 by Eld. Henry and two sisters. Proofs were mailed to Elder G. B. Avery as well as to , Editor G. A. Lomas The manuscripts were taken to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) (Office of the People) to be printed. These were enclosed in tight-fitting cases. Returned in same style, types distributed at our Office. The pamphlets were folded stitched and wrapped at Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire) Publisher N. A. Briggs , Ed. G. A. Lomas . Eleven couples of sisters went abroad this year to canvass for the Manifesto"

No. of subscriptions for Jan. 1878 299
for Feb. 1878 582
for Nov. 1878 606
for Sept. 1878 601
Whole amt. 2088

Canvassers absent from home from four hours to six weeks on this mission

Note Dec. 15.
"To Loudon (Loudon, New Hampshire) Center" Wm. Briggs S. Lowd O. L. Shepard and Alice Davis attend religious services— Pastor Rev. Carter E. Cate who to their disappointment had left for home

187

1879

Current Events

January 17
Sarah and Ellen Wier of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) come to tarry a few days.

January 22
Sullivan Wright with two sisters goes to "Loudon Ridge" to visit the family of the late Dr. French

January 19
Eld. H. C. Blinn N. A. Briggs W. W. Briggs S. S. Woods E. J. Aiken and J. H. Fish go to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) by request to attend the Memorial Services of the late Dr. Carter ( Elbridge Carter)

January 28
A. Y. Cochran Olive M. Libbey & M. H. Caswell go to Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) to get some new ideas on tailoring

Eldress Joanna J. Kaime goes to Andover N.H. (New Hampshire) where the Court is in session on the Conant case

January 30
Eld. H. C. Blinn & N. A. Briggs go to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) Meet Eld. Elijah Myrick at C. and prevail upon him to visit Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) instead of Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) , because so many members were absent from the latter place on account of attending the court in session at Andover N.H. (New Hampshire) on the Conant case.

188

1879

Current Events

February 2
A Shaker Meeting at Belmont N.H. (New Hampshire) solicited Delegates, Viz. Eld. H. C. Blinn A. Y. Cochran D.L.P. Chas. Stevens Wm. Briggs Jno. Bradbury E. Gilman A. B. Caswell L. A. Shepard OL. Shepard E. Fitts I. Olney M. L. Miller E. M. Hillsgrove H. Taber M. L. Wilson J. H. Fish & L. Westervelt . Two services were held, one in A.M. & one in P.M.

February 5
Boys' School examined and closed— No. of pupils, 15 Teachers A. C. Stickney & J. E. Ware .

J. S. Wright E. M. Hillsgrove & M. L. Wilson go to Belmont N.H. (New Hampshire) to canvass.

February 6
J. S. W. S. Lowd E. Fitts go to Pittsfield N.H. (New Hampshire) canvassing

February 7
The School at Canterbury Center closes Two brethren ten sisters go to witness the closing Exercises. S. Wright Roscoe Woodworth A. C. S. with several pupils & sister M. E. Hastings No. of pupils, 38 Teacher, Emma Jones.

February 10
Wife of Jeremiah Kimball deceased. Memorial services attended by J. S. Wright A. C. Stickney L. A. Shepard & M. L. Miller .

February 11
An Educational Conference to be held in Dining Hall each Tues. eve by Eldress D. A. Durgin . Young brethren and youth have devotional exercises in meeting room at same hour.

189

1879

Current Events

Feb. 11
An Educational Conference for young sisters & youth is to be held in Dining Hall each Tues. eve. under the Elder's supervision— Meantime a devotional meeting for young brethren is held in House D. No. 38.

Feb. 19
George Williams a professional tailor comes from Manchester N.H. (New Hampshire) to instruct some of our young people in the best methods of cutting and fitting coats vests &c

Feb. 28
A new Prescott Organ has been recently purchased for the Teachers of Dist. No. 8 to aid the pupils in their daily Vocal Drills Eld. H. C. Blinn being Prec. Com. of this school saw fit to make said purchase.

Com. & Teachers have observed the utmost prudence with regard to books stationery &c during the past four years, as a result secured the neat little sum of $90.00 for said organ

March 6.
Work commences at Sugar Camp W. W. Briggs manager Two Sisters go almost daily to prepare food for the sap gatherers, usually four in number The sap season closes Apr. 24 this year

March 20
A letter from Emil Bretzner 's travels as penned by him from Feb. 16 to 22 while sojourning in Copenhagen Denmark. He is a native of Stockholm Sweden

190

1879

Current Events

Mar 12
The Ministry leave this morn for Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) A. C. Stickney accompanies Eldress E. A. Stratton Eldress J. J. K. remains at Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire)

Mar 27
To Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) Alex Y. Cochran & J. S. Wright to attend a Temperance meeting

Mar 31
D. L. Perkins resigns charge of boys. A. Y. C. assumes charge pro. tem.

Memorial services for Ada Neal attended by a delegation of Shakers agreeably to petition of her parents Rev. Mr. Conger presided Elder H. C. B. and Shaker Choir assisting in speaking singing &c.

Mar 6
Jno. McClintock of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) accompanied by Geo Clark & A. Y. Cochran are surveying our lands and re-making boundaries to our lots

April 4
Fourth letter from Emil Bretzner , now in Stockholm Sweden received today

191

1879

Current Events

April 9
Frank Leslie Brown takes charge of the boys 7 in No.

April 15
Sarah Gould removes from Branch to North Family

May 2.
A musical Convention at " Hill's Corner" A. C. S. H. Taber M. L. M. attend.

May 3
Cook stove in great Kitchen re-paired

May 13
School opens. J. Forest S. F. Wilson Teachers.

5
More cherry and pear trees set in middle front row lawn facing South 60 young trees from N.Y. (New York) at 50 cts. each = $31.00)

May 9.
The Horse Barn is being revised and re-paired. Horses board at Sheep barn ("Pro. tem.")

May 24
Galvanized oven removed from Bakery to Dining Hall to give space for building a new rotary brick oven The old one having become useless from over heating Hired masons employed four days. Galvanized oven removed to Sirup Shop for the time

(May 19
Frank Mess ofConcord (Concord, New Hampshire) tunes the pianos & conducts a singing School.)

May 26
School Teachers Examination agreeably to a request by the Town authorities, held at Dist. No. 8. List of Questions written by Luther Sargent S.S. Com. Presented to Teachers by Elder H. C. Blinn , and said questions were to be answered in writing The session lasted two hours, one day, resumed the following day for same purpose. Questions 98 in number were chosen from Grammar Arithmetic Geo. Geometry and a few in History. At close of writing each pupil read her answers which were somewhat interesting as well as amusing

192

1879

Current Events

June 2
An old canvas tent is revised for sisters' use. Pitched in North door yard under the maple Queen.

June 10
Dining Hall vacated for repairs. The family take meals in Pantry. The white paint on wood work of Dining Hall trimmed with straw-colored paint

June 16
Rotary oven, with movable disks ready for use

June 19
Cornet band composed of young men from Belmont N.H. (New Hampshire) march up the meeting House lane playing some sprightly martial airs. The family give attention a brief time, and pay the musicians with a good supper

June 23
A set of silver washed knives and forks purchased for "Dining Hall"

July 4
A "Pic Nic" is held by town's people in Maple Grove,Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) to celebrate the Anniversary of our Independence The services commenced in prayer An oration followed by Obadiah Clough, in which facts concerning its settlement and history were given— Elder H. C. Blinn W. W. Briggs M. Whitcher & R. Adams attended.

July 5.
"The Chart of Church Boundaries drawn by Jno. McClintock was exhibited to sisters in Ironing Room, who were invited to study & examine the same at pleasure.

July 10
A Blueberry harvest commences at the Marden Farm by our sisters It was engaged for $10.00 and pickers are expected to work daily while the berries last.

July 16
( Geo. Williams & wife arrive to teach cutting men's clothes)

193

1879

Current Events

August 1
Elder Jeremiah Clough pastor of Baptist Church Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire) deceased ae. 84 yrs.— Memorial Services attended by Eld. H. C. Blinn J. S. Wright , Flora Williams Jennie H Fish .

August 4
To Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to confer with Harriet Guilmette vocalist A. C. Stickney Ednah Fitts H. L. Miller &

August 8
Matilda moves to House F. to take charge of Boys wardrobe

H Guilmette comes to the Village to teach Vocal music

August 19
To Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) Crawford House Eld Jas. S. Kaime A. C. Stickney & A. F. Montagu Absent from home one week.. Go to Portland Me. (Maine) to spend one day meantime Go & return to Boston (Boston, Massachusetts) in the Steamer "Forest City" a small vessel of 800 tons burthen. Arrive home on the 25 inst.

August 20
To a Sunday School "Pic Nic" by invitation Eldress D. A. Durgin L Forest E. D. Caswell and the majority of School girls. D. L. Perkins teamster

The Dry House for fruit East of Laundry is taken down with the intention to erect another more commodious one

August 23
To Gilmanton N.H. (New Hampshire) E Stirling M. L. Wilson and Bertha Mansfield to rehearse their lessons in German Mrs. Bethman German Teacher

194

1879

Current Events

September 1
Wm. Libbey goes to Sanbornton N.H. (New Hampshire) with a load of brooms. Purchased instead, two large oblong tin vats in which to steep ingredients for Sarsaparilla Sirup.

September 3
To Sunapee Lake to attend "Spritualist's Camp Meeting"— Eld. H. C. Blinn , Elizabeth Martin D. T. Cochran & Louise Forest . Return, Sept. 6.

To Nashua N.H. (New Hampshire) to canvass for Shaker Manifesto Lucy A. Shepard & M. L. Wilson . They secured thirty subscriptions and sold 3 doz. copies of "Brief Exposition" beside Views of Shaker Village (Shaker Village, New Hampshire) .

Marcia E. Hastings leaves for Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) to tarry a while, & to aid the people there, in various ways. Remained six weeks & from thence, went to Mt. Lebanon N.Y. (New York) & Hancock, Mass. (Massachusetts) —Returns to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) , after two weeks sojourn, arrives home after a three months' absence.

September 27
Nancy G. Danforth returns after three weeks' absence, in canvassing for Manifesto at Meredith N.H. (New Hampshire)

195

1879

Current Events

October 7.
Nicholas A. Briggs and Roscoe Woodworth go to Claremont N.H. (New Hampshire) after sheep.

October 11
N. A. B. & R Woodworth repeat this errand with a view to improve the breed.

They visit Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) , Lebanon (Lebanon, New Hampshire) & Canaan N.H. (New Hampshire) securing meantime a flock of 40 sheep. Return, 15th inst.

October 2
M. R. Hillsgrove leaves for Loudon N.H. (New Hampshire) Had resided at the "Branch" since her return from Mt. Lebanon N.Y. (New York) She subsequently went to Groveland (Groveland, New York) to live where she was accepted a member. Left Groveland (Groveland, New York) for Watervliet (Watervliet, New York) , from Watervliet (Watervliet, New York) to Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) . Finally went to Waverly Mass. (Massachusetts) Died at Mass. (Massachusetts) Hospital—Devonshire St. ae 59 yrs 1 mo. 4 d.

Oct. 21
To " Hill's Corner" two brethren and seven sisters to witness some "Stereopticon Views". introduced by Capt. Randall Grant of Kennebunk Me. (Maine)

Oct. 23
The same "Views" were exhibited at our Ancient Church (Meeting House) two days later.

Oct. 29
To Franklin N.H. (New Hampshire) to canvass— H. A. Johns and J. E. Ware .

196

1879

Current Events

Nov. 3
Eunice Moody ae. 75 comes from Phila. Penn. to visit Shakers, and obtain some information with regard to their practical life. Left at the close of the week.

Nov. 8
Boys' Winter school opens with eleven pupils Teachers; A. C. Stickney M Tatterton

Nov. 11
Elizabeth Cantrell of Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) returns from Mrs. Doctor Wallace of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) where she had been stopping for medical aid. Leaves C. for Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) Dec. 23, 1879 having been absent since July 12. over 5 mos.

Nov. 25
Some changes— Edith Caswell takes E Stirling 's place as caretaker of girls J Forest & S. F. Wilson assistants

December 29
J. E. Ware goes to Providence R.I. (Rhode Island) to care for her aged mother.

December 25
A Christmas carol was sung at breakfast table by the cooks. Religious Services observed at 10 A.M.

Note
Several Christmas trees decorated for the children Eld. Henry has this year collected all the Publications written or printed by Shakers since the organization of the Societies, as well as articles written about Shakers by persons abroad

197

1880

Current Events

Jan. 6.
Dr. Sanborn of Loudon N.H. (New Hampshire) comes to repair clocks and perform some dental surgery

Jan. 15
Ice harvested 14 in. thickness.

The exhaust steam pipes burst in Laundry having been frozen.

Jan. 17
Sister M. E. Hastings fell upon an icy walk this morning dislocating the left shoulder and breaking the left hip Dr. Stillings of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) employed as surgeon in the case. Visited the patient 13 times.

Jan. 26
Dr. Patter of Loudon N.H. (New Hampshire) employed to treat a severe case of carbuncle on the neck. Patient, Julia A. Briggs .

A barn burned at Hancock Mass. (Massachusetts) —owned by Shakers. Loss, estimated at $3000. Insured for $200.

Jame Watson, a young man ae. 30 yrs, (from Boston (Boston, Massachusetts) ) was admitted on probation. Returned to Boston (Boston, Massachusetts) Feby. 25.—

February 2
Clara Houghton was returned to her sister in Malden Mass. (Massachusetts)

19
Inez Hortensia Colburn ae. 9 yrs. from Nashua (Nashua, New Hampshire) accepted

21
Lucy Ann Shepard appointed associate Trustee

198

1880

Current Events

February 25
Co-education of boys and girls tried this Term as an experiment—Closed to-day

Feb. 26
Eldress D. A. Durgin and I. H. Taber go to Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) to consult an occulist about defective sight Extend their journey subsequently to Prov. R.I. (Rhode Island) N. A. Briggs , escort.

March 8 Clara Edith Shackford was taken away by her mother

March 9
Susan and Emily F. Hall go to Exeter (Exeter, New Hampshire) to see their aged mother Ret. 15th inst.

March 21
Roscoe Woodworth returns Is admitted at North Family

March 23
Two young women from Boston Mass (Massachusetts) give an evening Entertainment by various recitations with some instructions upon Elocution as an art.

March 25
Helen M. Perkins of Lebanon N.H. (New Hampshire) comes to give piano lessons

March 30
Sixty students from St. Paul's School Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) come to take dinner in our large "Dining Hall"

March 31
The Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) Quintette Club. come to our Chh. and very kindly entertain us with singing this eve. Viz. Bass Albert Clough, Tenor, Jer. Cogswell Alto, Wm. Cogswell & air Chas. M. Emery .

199

1880

Current Events

April 11.
A company of singers go to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to listen to the rendering of Mozart's Twelfth Mass as performed by the Catholic Choir— Mrs. H Guilmette & daughters present— Annie Westervelt being a leading soprano. Our choir having practiced much on this piece, our Teacher H Guilmette invited us to listen to the rendering of the same by cultured voices

April 12
Helena Marsh moves to North Family

April 23
Elder Grove Blanchard deceased ae. 82 yrs. Harvard, Mass. (Massachusetts)

April 26
Eldress D. A. D. and L. A. Shepard go to Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) to select dry goods Return the 28th inst.

April 28
Alexander Y. Cochran leaves for Mt. Morris N.Y. (New York) N. A. Briggs meets him in Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) from whence they go in Co. to Groveland (Groveland, New York) Shakers, thence to Mt. Lebanon, N.Y. (New York) Hancock, Mass (Massachusetts) & Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire)

April 29
John Bardsley moves from North Family to Church to take charge of live stock

April 30
B Wardwell of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) calls at the Village. Gives a lecture in the evening upon the abuse of prisoners by the presiding Warden of "New Hampshire State Prison". David Campbell accompanies the lecturer.

A variety of fruit trees set in front door yard the present season.

200

1880

Current Events

May 3 Omar Pease of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) comes to tarry awhile.

May 8.
Mary Whitcher leaves Trustees' Office" with its duties and moves into the Family. L. A. Shepard leaves Deaconess Order for Trustees' burdens Eldress E. A. Stratton leaves Minstry's Order (Ministry) and assumes the Deaconesses duties. H. P. Shepard leaves Infirmary to be associate in Ministry A. B. Clifford officiates as nurse

May 7.
J. H. Hartley from Cin. Ohio , here for a visit

May 14.
A new Smith organ purchased to be placed in the Chapel. Used by Teacher for aid in Vocal Drill and song rehearsals

May 10— N. A. Briggs goes to White Mts. Profile House—with horse & Buggy.)

May 23
J. S. Wright and three sisters go to Loudon Ridge by invitation to Attend Adventist's Meeting Pastor Elder Harvey of

May 24
Lillie Westervelt of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) comes for a brief sojourn in the country.—Leaves Jun. 9.

Lawyer Albin of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) here for consultation on distilling substances.

May 26
N. B. This stem should be in 1881 Thomas Evans arrives from Liverpool England with his three children viz. Jessie Evans ae. 13 Albert Evans ae. 10 Nellie Evans ae 8 yrs. Fare for himself & family from Liverpool (Liverpool, England) to Boston (Boston, Massachusetts) ($194.)

May 29
Elder H. C. B. S Wright and two sisters attend the celebration of the one hundredth anniversary of the Church on Loudon Ridge, near "Loudon (Loudon, New Hampshire) Cemetery".

201

1880

Current Events

7.
Aline Bennett leaves (alias. Abbie Disheneau)

June 16
Eliza Mansfield Jane Briggs & a Mrs. Benson come to make a brief tarry Jane give some lessons to C. M. Newhall on drawing. She leaves Aug. 25

June 22
Eldress J. J. Kaime and Sophia Lowd go to York Beach (York Beach, Maine) return July 12.

June 26
Herman Palmer here from New York on a visit.

Note
May 12 Mary Ham ae. 6 yrs. attends Shaker School by request of her father Jno. Ham, S.S. Com. ) Summer School opens with 18 pupils—Teachers A. C. S. & L. J. F.

July 5.
A "Pic Nic" held at "Maple Grove" near Baptist Church, Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire) Oration given by Obed Clough jun. Subject—"The "South" Eld. H. C. Blinn S Wright and two sisters attend.

July 28
News of Eld. Thomas Damon 's decease at Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) ae. 60 yrs. The good Elder had just returned from an extended visit to Societies in Ohio & Kentucky Took a sudden cold which developed a Fever and terminated in death, much to the regret of his friends.

July 20
Lucia Shepard comes for a brief visit.

July 24
Annie P Stevens Mrs. Mooney and daughter arrive from Salem Mass. (Massachusetts) They leave Aug. 16.

Foundation laid for South Kitchen at "Trustees' Office"

July 28
Joseph Smith comes to see his four children Left, Aug 5 and returned to join—left again.

202

1880

Current Events

July 29
Elizabeth Stirling appointed associate Deaconess with E. A. Stratton and Julia J. Briggs

H. A. Clifford arrives for a brief visit

August 2
A musical concert held in No. 38 for a test of skill acquired by practice on organ & piano under Helen M Perkins tuition Pupils, as follows: Louise Forest L. J. Forest Helen Taber M. A. Wilson

August 4
Lecture on Paris (Paris, France) and other places of interest in Europe by Geo. Blanchard who had traveled quite extensively

August 6
Unitarian Camp Meeting in session at the "Wiers" Eld. H. C. Blinn and three sisters attend

August 17.
Temperance Camp Meeting Eld. H. C. Blinn two bros 5 sisters attend

August 19
Six sisters are added to the Temperance cause All return on the 21st. instant.

August 23
The new "Dry House" for fruit after having been revised and improved agreeably to suggestions by our friend Blanchard, unfortunately took fire while being tested as to its heating capacity. The heat was raised to above 200 degrees with the first lot of apples prepared for the kiln

At 5 o'clock P.M. the house was found to be on fire

203

1880

Current Events

August 23
The fire gained steadily in volume and intensity in spite of the best efforts which were promptly given by both brethren and sisters. The large bell was next rung steadily for at least 30 minutes. Members from the North Family were soon on the ground as well as neighbors and hired help. Soon however the fire was under control though our only means was in passing pails of water from hand to hand as we stood in a line while some brethren passed to men on the roof. Providentially however the Laundry adjoining was saved as was also one half the Dry House.

The "debris" was removed the next day, and an outer tier of brick added to the chimney_The building ready for use in a few days.

We were obliged to use the Branch kiln while these repairs were going forward

August 29
Elder H. C. Blinn Geo. Moore , Nancy G. Danforth and Lillian Clapp go to "Zion's Hill" to attend an Osgoodite Meeting West Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire)

September 5
Eldress J. J. Kaime Eldress D. A. Durgin and A. Y. C. go via. Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) pr R.R. to Sunapee Lake to witness the Eddy materializations & so forth

September 7
Elder H. C. B. goes to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) with three sisters to listen to a lecture by Robt. Ingersoll .

204

1880

Current Events

September 8
Elder H. C. B. goes to White Mts. to meet the Lebanon (Lebanon, New Hampshire) Ministry who are on the way to our Village

September 9
Eldress Dorothy and O. M. Libbey go to Laconia N.H. (New Hampshire) to meet the whole party.

September 15
Elder J. S. Kaime leaves Ministry's burdens to be Senior Trustee Elder H. C. B. leaves Eldership for Ministries' duties N. A. Briggs appointed to Eldership

September 16
our Ministry accompany Mt. Leb. (Mount Lebanon, New Hampshire) min. to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire)

September 18
Henry Chestnut of New Brunswick comes to visit his cousin E Martin .

Fred Wing 's parents make a call.

September 19
Dr. Wallace and sister Nellie make a brief tarry.

September 20
Eliza A. Stratton and E Martin go to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) to paint the wood-work on interior of Min. new residence

September 22
Eldress D. A. D. goes to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) _Returns the 28th.

205

1880

Current Events

October 5.
William Briggs goes from Family Deac Order to take charge of the boys Eldoras Chase associate Charles Stevens resigns the charge to assist D. L. Perkins in caring for stock.

2
Harry & Lizzie Horton bro't by their father who joins at N. Family (North Family) .

October 7.
Nathaniel White, a wealthy resident of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) and a long-time friend of Shakers deceased Oct. 5 Elder H. C. B. and Eldress D. A. D. M Whitcher and two young sisters attend the Memorial services at Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) by special solicitation of his friends

October 8
Oliver Caswell of Milton N.H. (New Hampshire) is admitted at the Branch for a temporary home 70 yrs. of age.

October 12
Eunice Hall and Mary J. Crisp arrive from Shirley Mass. (Massachusetts) in company with our sisters who have recently visited said Society. viz. S Ceeley and S. C. Hall . Shirley sisters leave for Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) on the 20th

October 20
Charles and Nancy Grant of York Beach (York Beach, Maine) are here on a brief visit

October 22
The new State Prison of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) having been completed our people are invited to go over and inspect before the convicts take possession Two Brethren and thirteen sisters avail themselves of the opportunity. Subsequently nearly every one in the Society visits said Prison during the month of free access.

206

1880

Current Events

October 24
S. S. Woods and A. E. Newton M. L. Miller go to attend a Church services in Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) N.H. (New Hampshire)

October 26
Aqueducts fail_water is brought for cooking purposes from Well East of House Y.

October 28
A small party attend the Dedication of the State Prison_viz. Eld. H. C. Blinn Eldress D. A. Durgin Ednah Fitts M. L. Wilson Eldress J. J. Kaime of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire)

October 29
M Tatterton goes to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to consult Dr. Julia Russell.

October 30
Agnes E. Newton & Elsie York go to Maplewood Mass. (Massachusetts) _

November 2
Nancy G. Danforth goes to Meredith Village (Meredith, New Hampshire) to canvass

J. S. Wright Eldress D. A. Durgin & Flora Williams go to Sandwich N.H. (New Hampshire) to call on Flora 's grand mother.

November 8
Winter school opens with 26 pupils 16 boys and 10 girls Teachers A. C. Stickney & A. E. N. Elsie York succeeds A. E. N.

November 10
Nancy A. Morse of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) comes to tarry a while

November 11
Thomas Streeter comes to lecture,_does so, with questionable success.

207

1880

Current Events

November 4.
Fire at Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Drying Kiln for drying roots destroyed. Loss insured at $300) sufficient to re-build

November 9
L. A. Shepard and F. E. Myres go to Nashua N.H. (New Hampshire) to canvass for "Shaker Manifesto" from thence to Watervliet N.Y. (New York) Mt. Lebanon (Mt. Lebanon, New York) Hancock Mass. (Massachusetts) and Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire)

November 11
A choir of singers go to " Hill's Corner" by request to attend a Rehearsal to be given by the Corner Choir and others from Baptist Church some four miles South of Hill's Corner

November 16
John McClintock of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) with Bros. George Clark and Jospeph Woods are surveying lots and marking boundaries, that were unmarked last year

Susan C Hall and Emily F. Hall go to Exeter N.H. (New Hampshire) to visit their aged mother agreeably to her request

November 22
J. S. Wright goes to Lowell Mass (Massachusetts) to canvass for "Manifesto" Returns Dec. 3.

208

1880

Current Events

December 2
Julia Ann Briggs and Julia J. Briggs go to Prov. R.I. (Rhode Island) to canvass for "manifesto" (Ret. 16th)

December 10
Kneeland Codman comes to board awhile Is engaged by "Trustee's to paint interior of Dining rooms at "Trustees' Office"

December 13
J. S. Wright at Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) engaged in canvassing for "Manifesto"

December 16
Brethren harvest the year's supply of ice.

Maria Cady of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) comes to recuperate her health. Leaves, Feb. 15.

December 23
Olive M. Libbey & E Martin go to John Ham 's residence two miles North ofShaker Village (Shaker Village, New Hampshire) to care for his 7 yr old daughter Mary who is seriously ill. She attended school in District No. 8. during the Summer and won many friends by her artless innocence and voluntary obedience to Teachers. Deceased Dec. 28, 1880.

Two brethren and four sisters attended the memorial services held on the 30th inst.

December 28
The State Committee on Agriculture hold a meeting at Baptist Church_Canterbury, N.H. (New Hampshire) A party of brethren and sisters attend.

209

1881

Current Events

January 3
Geo. Williams of Manchester N.H. (New Hampshire) comes to cut Boys' Suits

Eld. Henry Cumings calls on 2nd inst. remains till the 7th Gives lectures_(historic.)

January 4
Dedication of Tilton Town House, built by Chas Tilton & furnished by him Elder H. C. B. S Wright Eldress D. A. D. H Taber and L Forest present at the ceremonies

January 9
Sarah D Libbey leaves Trustees burdens to assume the Eldress trust at North Family associate with Eldress H. March

January 24
Richard Van Deusen & Alden Lyman from Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) come for a visit.

Jan. 27
Annual State Musical Convention at Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) A party from the Shaker Church attend.

Jan. 29
Aqueducts burst by frost. No water to be had save from adjacent wells._Water flows on the 30th

Jan. 31
Four Murphy children return with their father to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire)

Feb. 23 Winter School inspected by Jno. Ham )

April 18
The St. Paul students of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) come for a holiday. They dine in Family Dining Hall. Are otherwise entertained and escorted over the premises as usual, They number at least one hundred

May 1
Sunday Society meeting at Ancient Church (Meeting House) The form of worship somewhat changed externally Exercise of mind rather than physical demonstration as formerly The congregation faces the East The leaders face the West Strangers occupy the rear seats and face East also This form is to be observed in all conferences where the whole family takes part.

May 26
T Evans ret. from Liverpool Eng. with three children Jessie, Bertie, Nellie after an absence of 5 yrs.

210

1881

Current Events

June 2
The Mansfield children return from N.Y. (New York)

June 12
A large company of Brethren and Sisters go to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to listen to a lectures by Susan B Anthony on Temperance, and "Woman's Suffrage" Some tarry to hear Sec. lecture and return at 12 midnight

June 22
Geo. Pierce leaves. Returns. July 4th.

July 2
Report of Pres. Garfield 's assassination comes to-day Was shot Hopes for his recovery entertained by some

July 6
Eld. B. H. Smith R Shepard & H Wilson go to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) for a visit.

August 23
To White Mts. Elder H. C. Blinn Eldress Joanna J. Kaime and E. J. Aiken With Flora Williams ret. Aug. 27.

August 31
To Manchester N.H. (New Hampshire) Eliza J. Aiken with L. A. Shepard

September 14
To Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) on a visit sisters D. T. Cochran H. A. Johns M. H. Caswell J Forest M. L. Wilson M. E. Moore

September 19
Pres. Garfield deceased_Memorial services were held in Cleveland (Cleveland, Ohio) where the remains were carried for internment

September 19

September 22
Summer School closed Jno. Ham S.S.C.

Note_For other items, see small Diary kept by M. E. Hastings 1881

211

1881

Current Events

October 3
Ohio Ministry arrive via. Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) viz. Elder Matthew Carter Eld. Oliver C Hampton Eldress Louisa Farnham Eldress Adaline Wells Leave Oct. 7. for Enfield Ct.

October 8
Bro. Orville Dyer of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) comes for a brief visit

October 16
Adventist Camp meeting at Loudon N.H. (New Hampshire) Elder Hooke leader A party of Shakers attend by invitation

October 15
Henry Pierce leaves to join his brother

October 26
A. J. Baker goes to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) to assist in making caps and fine sewing in general A. J. B. returns Dec. 2.

Angeline Clifford to the Branch for recuperation

November 19
Elder Giles B. Avery of Mt. Leb. (Mount Lebanon, New Hampshire) Ministry comes to confer about the Shaker Manifesto being taken and edited at Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire) _ Left 23rd. inst.

November 25
Eldress Polly Reed of Central Ministry deceased ae 63 yrs. Eldress Harriet Bullard is chosen to fill the vacancy as associate with Eldress E Ann Taylor

28
N. A. Briggs resigns charge of Boys' School Sisters take the school E. E. Fitts first Teacher Wm. Briggs resigns care of boys to Charles Stevens .

30
E Stirling and H. A. Johns canvass for Manifesto at Loudon Village (Loudon Village, New Hampshire) Secure 13 subscriptions.

212

1881

Current Events

December 5
Eld. H. C. Blinn , comes from Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) to arrange for commencing on the "Shaker Manifesto" to be edited and published at Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) . Eld H. C. B. & N. A. B. go to Boston (Boston, Massachusetts) to get a font of type for the magazine

S Wright goes to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to canvass Ret. 10 with 107 subscriptions

December 9
Mrs. Sophia Craddock trance medium of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) comes for a visit_Gave one or two sÃ¨ances.

December 13
L. A. Shepard & J. J. Briggs go to Manchester N.H. (New Hampshire) to canvass Return the 20th with 25 subscriptions

December 25
Sunday Christmas Annual Fast observed Bro. Wm. Libbey deceased at 12 o'clock midnight ae. 61 yrs.

December 26.
Mon. eve. Christmas trees are materialized in several apartments

December 27
Eld H. C. Blinn and Thomas Evans go to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Return Jan. 4, 1882.

At the close of present year there are 104 persons in the Church, 29 males, 16 under 20 yrs. 75 females, 25 under 20 yrs. In whole society excluding ministry, 157 persons. 40 males 117 females.

1881. Pres. Garfield 's Cabinet,
Secretary of State, James G. Blaine
Sec. Treasury, William Windon
Sec. of War, Robert Lincoln
Sec. Navy, H. H. Hunt
Sec. Interior, S. J. Kirkwood
Postmaster General. Thos. L. James
Attorney General, Wayne MacVeagh

213

1882

Current Events

January
The Shaker manifesto of present date is being prepared and supervised at Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire) by Eld. H. C. Blinn Editor & N. A. Briggs Publisher

Its pages are set by three young sisters, these proofs or manuscripts are snugly packed in boxes and sent to "Evans and Sleeper" (Office of the Granite Monthly" Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) " for printing folding and trimming. After which they pamphlets are wrapped superscribed and mailed at our Office. The Manifesto of the present contains 24 pages double column, with double cover devoted to advertisements Editor & Publisher's names not attached. Names of contributors rarely given

January 3
Eldress Emeline Hart of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) arrives. Returns May 12.

January 4
Mt. Lebanon N.Y. (New York) Center Family_ Washington Jones, Corrinne Bishop and Martha Sherman arrive for the purpose of taking lessons in Music vocal and instrumental They leave Feb. 10 via Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire)

January 8
Carson Winters who is to take charge of our Farm at Mt. Morris (Mt. Morris, New York) , calls to confer with Trustees

January 10
Thomas Smith of Canaan N.Y. (New York) makes a brief call

Elsie York is appointed assistant at Office with L. A. S. E Myres & E St.

January 16
Geo. Williams of Manchester N.H. (New Hampshire) here giving lessons in Tailoring_

January 20
Alice Davis returns to Church from the "Branch"

January 26
Ice Harvest in progress.

214

1882

Current Events

January 22
A party of young students from St. Paul's School Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) come to attend our Sab. worship Arriving late our meeting is prolonged for their benefit.

January 25
To Harvard Mass. (Massachusetts) Eldress J. J. Kaime and L. C. Fish . Meet there the Central Ministry, visit sister Eunice Bathrick who is in her 90th year From thence they proceed to Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) to consult an Occulist with regard to Lizzie 's diseased eyes and defective sight.

February 1
State Musical Convention at Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) Two brethren and three sisters from our Chh. go to escort the Trio of Lebanon (Lebanon, New Hampshire) singers

16
A Social Entertainment held in No. 38, by the young people for educational improvement in signing declamations recitations &c. A few near neighbors invited_

25
Caroline Whitcher of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) calls for a short tarry

215

1882

Current Events

March 3
Inez Colburn taken to Northfield N.H. (New Hampshire) by her aunt.

March 11
Work at "Sugar Camp" commenced by Joseph Woods and Thos. Evans ._A party of sisters go to cleanse buckets

March 16
To Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Eldress J. J. Kaime and E Hart

March 21
Mary Chandler of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) here Gives advice in cutting & fitting cloaks

March 23
Amos Hoist ae. 9 yrs, a German lad from Prov. RI. (Rhode Island)

March 27
Wood-sawing in North door-yard commenced

April 3
Della Robbins, ae. 7 yrs. brought by her mother from Springfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Returned 6th inst 4.
Eldress E Hart returns with Ministry

14
Isabella Brown taken by her father to Prov. R.I. (Rhode Island)

April 26
Brethren summoned to fight a fire at the Patten Farm_It was soon quenched.

May 3
A hired teamster is again employed at Trustee's Office. The Trustees formerly managed the business of transporting goods

10
The Portable Wood Splitter is placed in door yard to be operated by horse-power The entire job was soon dispatched

12
S. C. Hall accompanies the Ministry to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire)

216

1882

Current Events

June 17.
James S. Kaime & Thos. Evans go to Boston Mass (Massachusetts) to meet Jessie Evans Sen. and youngest daughter May Evans._From thence J. S. K. proceeds to Mt. Morris (Mt. Morris, New York) _As the party anticipated did not arrive. T Evans returned at once.

June 23
Teachers of Dist. No. 8 go to " Hill's Corner" to attend the closing exercises of the Summer term.

June 28
Jessie Evans Sen. with May Evans arrive from Eng. and subsequently find a temporary home with us, although the mother did not embrace Shakerism, with its requirements. Left (Nov. 29, 1882) after a few months for Toronto Canada . T Evans being obliged to seek a home elsewhere for his wife preceded her to Canada where she and her youngest daughter May expect to meet him (TE left Sept. 1882)

June 30
S Ceeley moves from Chh to Branch M Crooker from Branch to Infirmary Chh. A. B. Clifford from Branch to N. F. (North Family)

July 30.
H. A. Johns to E House to care for the children

31.
Eliza A. Stratton and M. H. Caswell go to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) South Family to assist in tailoring

217

1882

Current Events

August 1.
A. Y. Cochran and D. T. Cochran to Taunton Mass (Massachusetts) . to see a sick mother.

August 3
Wm. P. Bodfish an itinerant artist comes to take Views of the Village and sketches of surrounding landscapes under the auspices of the Editor of the "Wide Awake" Amanda B Harris an authoress contributes to the Periodical named and has employed the artist to illustrate her pen sketches

August 12
Harriet Miller arrives—gives lessons in Elocution.

August 18
Annie P Stevens leaves for Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) . Boarded at the Branch a few days and wishing to pay for her board offers to take a class of pupils through her new methods of teaching Drawing Reading Spelling &c.—

September 6.
H. P. Shepard and A. E. Newton go to Portsmouth N.H. (New Hampshire) to canvass for the "Manifesto"

21.
Alonzo G. Hollister arrives from Center Family Mt. Lebanon N.Y. (New York) . for recuperation. Leaves the 29th for Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire)

September 29.
Mary Cochran Sen. died at Taunton Mass. (Massachusetts) News received by telegram

218

1882

Current Events

October 3.
Eld. H. C. Blinn Eld. A Perkins of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Eldress Rosetta Cumings & Lizzie Curtis go to Mt. Lebanon N.Y. (New York) to confer with Elder Harvey Eads of Sou Union Ky. (Kentucky) , concerning the revision of the Church Covenant

October 16
Time of rising and retiring as arranged for the short days in Winter. Rise. at 5-30 A.M. retire at 9. P.M. E St. and M. S. Wilson go to Nashua N.H. (New Hampshire) canvassing

October 21
A party of sisters go to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to attend a N.H. (New Hampshire) Teachers" Convention.

October 25
Susan Cogswell of Hillville (Hillville, New Hampshire) spends a day with old friends at the Village

November 1
James H. Hartley arrives with Marquis Charles d'Angrognier ae. 17 yrs. of Turin, Italy J. H. H. spends two evenings in relating his experiences in travelling through the South and elsewhere They are making a tour of the world for the Marquis special benefit—They leave for the White Mts.

November 7.
E. St. & H. A. J. to Canterbury Center canvassing.

Eldress Joanna Kaime & L. C. Fish go again to see the occulists of Boston Mass (Massachusetts) about L's eyes

November 14
Boys' School opens—Teachers, A. E. Newton N. G. Danforth

Victoria Hewes of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) comes to find a new home

219

1882

Current Events

December 8.
The sisters Bridgeman by name professional Elocutionists call at our Village on their way to Vermont. They give some special instructions in elocution. A young lady vocalist accompanies them in their travels. They leave for "C Center" on the 10th inst.

14
The Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) Conant case is agitated again— Eldress Joanna J Kaime and two brethren go to Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) as witnesses of proceedings. The case being again postponed, they return next day

19
The three Clark children return to their parents at Washington D.C. (District of Columbia) Elizabeth Martin escorts them as far as New York (New York, New York) , thence to Jersey City (Jersey City, New Jersey) to be met by guardians from Washington (Washington, District of Columbia) . E canvasses in N.Y. city (New York, New York) for Manifesto—Returns Jan. 9, 1883 via. Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire)

December 23
News of the mournful death of sister A. E. Coburn of Sec. Fam. (Second Family) Mt. Leb. (Mount Lebanon, New Hampshire) reaches us. The dear sister met her death by an explosion of a Kerosine oil stove Three deaths followed this casualty—viz. Dec Ann E Coburn Angelie Vedder Olive Wheeler and Ann Busby

Dec 30
Eliza J. Aiken goes to Manchester N.H. (New Hampshire) to consult an occulist about her eyes. Dr. Carvelle L. A. Shepard accompanies her

220

1883

Current Events

January 8
E. J. Aiken at Manchester N.H. (New Hampshire) under treatment for the eye, boards with a friend near Dr. Carvelle's office, who recently performed an operation on said eye

January 9
Elder A Perkins arrives via. Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) where has business connected with the Conant case

January 11
O. M. Libbey at the Chh. caring for the sick. R Adams takes her place at the Branch.

Dr. W. F. Wallace of Loudon (Loudon, New Hampshire) employed as physician.

January 20
James H. Hartley who is traveling in the South sends a box of Florida oranges as a gift to our Family

January 28
Eld. Peter H. Long of Groveland N.Y. (New York) present at morning worship Gave a genuine testimony in favor of gospel discipline. Leaves the 29th inst accompanied by Eld. J. S. Kaime

February 17
John Bardsley leaves office duties to take charge of "Turning Mill"

Wm. W. Briggs moves into Trustees Office to care for the Farm and hired help.

22 Boys' Winter Term closes, with 16 pupils Teachers A. E. Newton N. G. Danforth —

Floyd C. Field of Sou. Un. (South Union, Kentucky) contributor to Manifesto of present date formerly a lawyer of some note

Article in "Manifesto"—"Science & Spirit"— Pletus Field. (Apr. No.)

221

1883

Current Events

March 4
Sab. A.M. worship at usual hour. At 2-30 Song rehearsal Dr. W. F. Wallace present at the latter

Later in the day the Doctor inspects the cellars drainage &c and thinks he discovers the immediate cause of the present unhealthy condition of the Family as a whole— our Ministry Elders and deacons accompanied the doctor in his search

March 8
Aqueduct water fails at Laundry. Supplies are still received at the Kitchen for cooking purposes

March 14
S. C. Hall and S. F. Wilson go to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to get some fulled cloth pressing done by machinery A. Y. Cochran and F. E. Myres accompany them

March 18
Change of position of Brn. and Sisters ranks in religious worship. Ranks now range East to West—worshippers face the North, Leaders the South. Formerly Brn. & Sisters' ranks ranged from North to South—audience "vis a vis."

March 27
The maple sugar harvest opens at the Camp Alex. Y. Cochran and Fred. Wing main actors. Sisters go to prepare meals and assist in other ways Sullivan Wright superintends the boiling. The sirup is brought to Sirup Shop in kegs to be reduced to sugar molasses & for sale.

222

1883

Current Events

April 8
It is advised for the sisters to postpone milking until after breakfast. The propriety of Sisters milking at all is being earnestly discussed

April 10
The hot beds in garden are prepared unusually early this season by N. A. Briggs & Co. (Company)

April 17
Tinning cow-barn roof by hired help. The former covering of gravel, having failed. W. W. Briggs supervisor.

April 19
Amanda Mathews goes to Manchester N.H. (New Hampshire) to consult Dr. Carvelle about her eyes.

May 2
Sarah Small of Canterbury N.H. (New Hampshire) who has been employed as matron at the Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) Jail, comes to make a brief visit

May 8
Summer School opens with 23 pupils—Teachers Jeannette Forest Jessie Evans jun. H. A. Johns , matron

May 9
Organ room South side of meeting Room finished.

May 16.
News rec'd of an extensive Fire at Poland Hill Me. (Maine) The , with all its valuable tools were consumed—cause of fire unknown. An aged brother who worked there had to be lowered from chamber window to the ground. He barely escaped alive

May 26
S Wright with sisters (7 in no.) go to Franklin N.H. (New Hampshire) to attend the closing exercises of the School.

May 31
R.R. day Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) Shaker have a "Free Pass" A party of Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) Sisters come over from Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) for a visit Viz. Asenath Russell, Marinda Kennistone E Elkins H Darling and E Spooner .

223

1883

Current Events

Public Worship opens on 6th, inst.

June 11.
Hannah Wilson of North Family and Mary L. Wilson of Chh. leave for a missionary tour in Augusta Me. (Maine) Return July 6.

11
Engine Room at Laundry takes fire but is speedily extinguished.

July 25
The Kitchen drainage is being cleansed, the channel deepened by hired help & superintended by Bro. Joseph Woods . A large cement pipe is nicely adjusted, consequently conditions will be very sensibly improved.

July 6
Lawyer Mugridge and party of friends from Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) attend morning worship

Are entertained in the P.M. by singing

July 9
Ella Briggs of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) comes to tarry awhile

(Note 17 Eldress H March & J. A. Briggs go to Dover N.H. (New Hampshire) to canvass for "Manifesto".)

July 11
The iron sink in Cook room removed to repair wood-work. (Death of Tom Thumb ae. 47 yrs. occurred on the 17th inst.)

July 18
N. A. Briggs goes to Manchester N.H. (New Hampshire) to secure the services of a Hydraulic Engineer in surveying our grounds, and to prospect for a water course which will add to our supply of water in the Village.

July 27
To "Wiers' Camp Meeting"— Elder N. A. Briggs Chas. Stevens , Jennie H. Fish & Ida B. Lackey.

224

1883

Current Events

August
John H. Pierson, of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) Editor of "The People" with a party of friends comes to spend the Sabbath

August 7
To Franklin N.H. (New Hampshire) Mary Whitcher R Adams & E. G. A. about dyeing yarn.

August 14
Sisters at Clothier's Mill engaged in dyeing garments left by a former generation.—drab dresses drab coats &c

Walter Aiken s "Hose Knitter" is now operated by water-power at "Clothier's Mill"

August 15
"Temperance Camp Meeting" at the "Wiers", A party attend.

August 17
The Hydraulic Engineer arrives, from Chichester N.H. (New Hampshire) Prospects the land near Frisby's Brook for water.

August 20
Helen Taber and Mary L. Wilson go to the Wier's to canvass for Manifesto" (ret. 25th)

August 29
To Franklin N.H. (New Hampshire) about dyeing R. A. Adams E. J. A. and E. E. Fitts .

September 1
To Manchester N.H. (New Hampshire) M. L. Wilson & L. J. Forest to aid in Temperance cause by singing &c.

September 5
"New Eng. (New England) Agri. Fair" opens at Manchester N.H. (New Hampshire) M. L. Miller L. A. Shepard E. D. Caswell & M. H. Caswell Victoria Hewes attend.

September 6
W. W. Briggs Est. O. L. S. M. Perkins N. A. B. & D. L. P. at the "Fair" W Briggs tarries later hoping to dispose of an animal Durham Short horned breed for a premium of ($30.00)

225

1883

Current Events

September 19.
To Laconia (Laconia, New Hampshire) Agri. Fair" a party of eight sisters viz. Jane Crooker , E Martin E Fitts M Liscomb

September 20
S Wright with sisters D. T. C. A. C. S. A Richardson & youth This party witnesses a balloon ascension

September 29
Mary Whitcher goes to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to be treated by Dr. Julia Wallace for Eczema. M, boards at Mary Chandler 's residence E Martin accompanies M as nurse.

October 2
Susan Bartholomew of Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) here

(Note Oct 30 M Liscomb & J Forest attend Teachers' Association (State Teachers' Association) 4 days' session)

4
E St. & H. A. J. to Chichester (Chichester, New Hampshire) & Loudon N.H. (New Hampshire) canvassing

9
E St. & H. A. J. to Franklin (Franklin, New Hampshire) Bristol (Bristol, Rhode Island) & Andover N.H. (New Hampshire)

12
Charlie Gustin's mother brings a girl of 14 for a home in the Society viz. Mary Alice McCoy.

October 21
N. A. Briggs W. W. Briggs S. S. Woods & L. A. Shepard go To Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to attend Memorial Services of Harry Kimball, son of Willis Kimball , who died of Pneumonia Phila. Penn. where the family had recently been stopping..

October 26
Boys' School opened on the 23rd A. E. N. C Pickard—Teachers. 14 pupils Agnes E Newton and L. J. Forest attend the State Teachers' Association of four days' length.

Note
Lewis W. Brewster, Editor "Portsmouth (Portsmouth, New Hampshire) Journal" present at Sab. morn. worship, subsequently published his Visit to the Shakers—Comments, quite favorable,

Oct. 19.
To Kinston N.H. (New Hampshire) canvassing E. A. S. E. D. C. Call at Gloucester Me. (Maine)

226

1883

Current Events

November
A new water pipe has been laid from Bark Mill Pond" up to a Reservoir in North Field it being larger in capacity then the old one

November 14
Caleb and Ann Davis with their two daughters ages 15 and 3 yrs. come from Amherst N.H. (New Hampshire) thinking to make here a permanent home for their family.

November 21
The Davis family leaves for Amherst (Amherst, Massachusetts) to settle their business interests. Return Dec. 12 bringing goods & chattels and accept a residence in the Chh.

Emily Hurlburt comes as an enquirer with a view to future fellowship. On Dec. 29. returns with her earthly possessions expecting to remain. Lodges at Office

December 9.
N. A. Briggs Louise & J Forest go to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to witness the "Children's Exhibition"

December 12
L. A. S. takes two eye patients to Manchester N.H. (New Hampshire) to consult Dr. Carvelle about defective sight

18
Elmira Hillsgrove moves from North to North Family Julia A. Briggs from North to Church to superintend our Dairy

December 21
M Tatterton from Infirmary for associate deaconess

26
Alex Y. Cochran goes to Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) Returns Jan 1, 1884,

December 30
Eldress H. P. Shepard from Minstry's Order (Ministry) . E Martin succeeds

227

Recapitulation of Statistics at close of

1883.

Water supplies, somewhat limited
Milk,—a comfortable provision for table
Butter,—enough for breakfast.
Irish potatoes,—plentiful.
Apples,—scarce
Beef,—a moderate supply
Kerosine constantly furnished of the highest test
Fuel—obtained from our own forests
Wood sawed and split by machinery
Hired help includes shoemaker office teamster and farm hands
Little Salework
Sarsaparilla sirup manufactured at Sirup Shop
Shaker Washing Machines and Mangle made by hired help at Saw Mill
At close of this year 102 persons in Chh, 26 males—76 females

Names of N. F. (North Family) officials at close of 1883

Elders,
Eld. Benjamin H. Smith
Freeman White
Eldress Harriet March
Sarah D. Libbey

Trustees
Philinda Miner
Elizabeth Stickney
Ann Reynolds

Nurses
Rebecca Shepard
Frances Gillespie

228

1884

Current Events

January 3
"Hydraulic Pump" at
Clothier's Mill" in operation at present date. From this point, a new pipe has just been laid connecting with Reservoir in North Orchard in place of a smaller defective one.

January 8
Elder H. C. B. to Concord N.H (New Hampshire) , to attend an "Association of Bee Culturists"—He delivers a lecture upon "Bee keeping by solicitation of delegates.

To Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) Eldress J. J. Kaime J Forest J Evans to take lessons in Geometry—Teacher Moses Wilson ( Sabina Lackey & daughter Gertrude here for a home.)

January 17.
To Belmont N.H. (New Hampshire) E. A. Stratton J Forest J Evans to see Jesse Allen and family

January 18
To Franklin N.H. (New Hampshire) R Adams E. J. Aiken & S Wright to attend Memorial Services of the late Ann Aiken who deceased on the 16, ae 74 yrs.

January 26
To Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) L. A. Shepard & H Taber Helen remains awhile L. A. S. returns

Change' John Bardsley takes D Perkins place in caring for stock

February 5
Caleb Davis and family leave for Amherst N.H. (New Hampshire)

February 11
To Nashua N.H. (New Hampshire) canvassing for "Manifesto" E Stirling and M. L. Wilson

A score or more of letters rec'd from various Librarians in important cities for sample copies of Manifesto

229

1884

Current Events

February. 12
A. Evans repeats his visit to Dr. Carvelle the Manchester (Manchester, New Hampshire) occulist, about defective sight

February 17
Winter School closes S.S. Com. Dr. Bronson Teachers, A. E. Newton & C Pickard

February 22
A volume of Shaker Music recently published is under revision by Elders of North Family Leb. N.Y. (New York) The printing is to be done in New York City (New York, New York) No. of pages 250. @ $2.50 pr. page—Total cost $625.00. Including the cost of binding therewith $1100.00. The Lebanon (Lebanon, New Hampshire) Sisters made sale shirts to meet the expenses demanded therefor. Eight sewing machines were operated by water power daily

March 11
Helen Taber returns with Ministry Mary E. Elkins and Katharine West , accompany them also.

March 17
The Sugar Camp is open for the maple sugar harvest Joseph Woods manager

March 25
Eld. Giles B. Avery of Central Ministry arrives He having been to Gloucester Me. (Maine) Leaves 27. via. Harvard Mass. (Massachusetts)

March 28
" Chickering's Upright Piano" sent to Flora A Williams by relatives in Boston Mass. (Massachusetts)

Change
L. A. Shepard removes from Office to Fam. Dea. Order, E. A. S. succeeds

230

1884

Current Events

April 3
State Fast" The Church convene in No. 38. to observe the same by singing speaking &c.

Emily Hurbburt leaves Has taught instrumental music during the past 3 months. Occupied a chamber in House F. where a piano was stationed

9
To Enfield N.H. (New Hampshire) M. E. Elkins & Catharine West

April 13
Changes.
To North Family Canterbury (Canterbury, New Hampshire) A. B. Clifford appointed associate with Eldress H March . Sarah D Libbey from Elders to Office as Sen. trustee Philinda Miner from Office to Infirmary which is to be vacated to undergo repairs Medical department—, at present in Dwelling House near.

April 20
Elsie York 's father attends morning worship

April 21
To Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) J Forest & J Evans to take lessons in Geometry Teacher Moses Woolson. J & J. Return 25th.

April 29
House F, re-shingled.

May 1
Veg. gar. is being sowed & planted to-day by N. A. B. & co. (company)

3
The children go for May flowers the Trailing Arbutus

6
To Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) for lessons J Forest J E & J. E. Wilson

7
Garden shop roof re-shingled

9
Summer School opens, Teachers J Forest & J Evans .

21
To Stoneham Mass (Massachusetts) . A. C. Stickney & H. P. Shepard to canvass for Manifesto. "Wood-work in No. 7 House A painted white."

22
Asparagus for breakfast—First meal—

231

1884

Current Events

May 27
N. A. Briggs Flora Williams & Cora M. Newhall go to Lebanon N.H. (New Hampshire) to learn the art of stereotyping and buy the apparatus used therefor.

May 29.
Brethren cut a ditch from reservoir at North Orchard as far South as long barn in which to place another aqueduct or one to communicate with Laundry engine.

June 1
Public Meeting opened to-day

June 3
A site is marked out for a ditch in door-yard to connect with the ditch already cut in North field These channels (total length) are to be 90 rods in length 4 1/2 feet in depth—pipes will be laid throughout to communicate with Main Reservoir on the heights of North Orchard"

Enfield (Enfield, New Hampshire) visitors: Eldress Rosetta and young sisters. with Bro. James G. Russell go to West Concord (West Concord, New Hampshire) with our people to visit new State Prison

June 7
Changes.
Bro. J. S. Kaime released from Office duties on account of ill health—Retains Trusteeship N. A. Briggs moves to Office as associate Trustee Alex Y. Cochran appointed Senior Elder, W. W. Briggs leaves office duties to be an associate Elder, John Bardsley takes William's charge Dan'l Perkins takes care of live stock— Charles Stevens assumes the charge of the Boys.

232

1884

Current Events

June 16
Brethren mow the lawn to day—Repairs on highway in progress They work three days @ 15 cents an hour

20
Helen Perkins calls to give a few music lessons. Leaves the 24th inst.

25
Caroline Whitcher & Mary A. Joslin call on their way from Boston (Boston, Massachusetts)

27,
A meal of strawberries for breakfast.

30.
To "Eye and ear Infirmary Carney Hospital Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) Eldress Joanna J Kaime with Amanda Matthews for surgical treatment of the right eye... A. M. was cared for by the Sisters of Mercy during the operation, Eldress Joanna was present also.

"Family Carriage Robes repaired," an item worthy of record.

July 1
Men come to adjust the water pipes in channels recently made. These are imbedded in cement.

July 3
Moses Woolson of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) comes to spend the Fourth, Gives lessons in Geometry Algebra and French

9
Hancock (Hancock, Massachusetts) Ministry arrive for a visit viz. Elder Albert Battles Eldress Hannah A Agnew & Eldress Caroline Helfreich

16
Eldress Joanna returns to Boston (Boston, Massachusetts) to care for Amanda who is still at the Carney Hospital under treatment

July 19
Arthur Bruce arrives fromBoston (Boston, Massachusetts) with Eldress J. J. Kaime and Amanda. A. B. returns after a brief visit to complete his musical studies.

The Church covenant revised by Eld. H Eads , H. C. B. &co.

233

1844

Current Events

August 1
Common School closed Inspected by Chh members. Unitarian Camp Meeting at the "Wiers" Five sisters with one brother attend from the Church

3
Meeting at Hill's Corner led by Rev. Carter E Cate About 20 Shakers attend, by invitation

August 6
Moses Woolson comes again to give lessons in Algebra Geometry & French Pupils go to Dist. No. 8.

August 9
Prof. Hathaway. pianist gives some instructions in playing

August 13
Abbie G. Woolson of Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) entertains the family with incidents connected with her travels in Great Britain and the continent of Europe

14
J. S. Wright and seven sisters go to the "Wiers" to attend a "Temperance Grove Meeting"

August 26
A "Pic Nic" held near Northfield (Northfield, New Hampshire) Depot. A class of pupils with their Teachers A. C. S. & A. B. Clifford attend. The pupils take an active part in singing declamation &c Eld. H. C. B. and S Wright , escorts Governor Natt Head was the central hero of the occasion.

August 27
The Belmont (Belmont, New Hampshire) Brass Band come to give the Shakers a serenade. They parade in Meeting House lane, discourse some fine national airs. Take supper at Trustees Office and leave for home soon thereafter.

234

Current Events

August 29
John H Dodge with his four children leave for Prov. R.I. (Rhode Island) —viz. Charlotte and Mary (twins) ae 11 yrs. John ae 9 yrs Ida B. ae 7 yrs. The daughters were placed in children's order. Ida soon developed scarletina The father and son left in a week to fulfill an engagement previously made

September 2
A Plumber is employed to lay a waste pipe from East House via E. of Ministries' Residence connecting with sewer in "Meeting House Field"

September 3
Susie Knox and four children leave for Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) Viz. Mary Knox ae, 15 yrs. Emma 13, Charles 8 Arthur 6 yrs.

September 4
N. A. Briggs Lilian Clapp and Flora Williams go to Montreal, Canada . Return 11th inst.

September 8
An excursion across Lake Winnepesauke was enjoyed by 40 brethren and sisters who boarded the Steamer Winona and accompanying barge. The party held a "Pic Nic" on Dimond Island. The dinner was largely composed of Shaker cookery.

The Steamer was chartered for us through the kindness of our Nashua (Nashua, New Hampshire) friend Elbridge Brown. Excursionists left home at 4-20 A.M. in three two-horse carriages and one buggy. Arrived safe at 10 P.M. although having experienced a fierce electric shower while taking dinner on "Dimond Island".

To Alfred Me. (Maine) Eld. H. C. Blinn Louise Forest & Helen Taber " on a brief visit.

235

1884

September 11
To St. Johns New Brunswick " E Martin & M. L. Wilson to canvass for Manifesto Return Oct. 23.

September 23
To Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) Eldress J. J. Kaime & J. E. Wilson to consult an occulist about J. W.'s eyes. E. A. Stratton accompanies also

October 6
To Manton R.I. (Rhode Island) D. T. Cochran M Ellen King and Emma Belle King to visit relatives and secure their share of the deceased father's will.

(Oct. 1 Geo. St. Johns , comes to join the community)

October 8
Arthur Bruce with his teacher Herbert Johnson arrives from Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) Attend Song Rehearsal at eve Offer some vocal instructions to the Choir

October 13
To Nashua N.H. (New Hampshire) E Stirling and Mabel Liscomb canvassing for the "Manifesto"

October 17
The Fall job of cutting and curing apples closes to-day 600 bushels have been cured and stored this season The exterior of buildings are being re-painted

October 24
To Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to attend Teachers Institute Agnes E Newton J Forest & J Evans .

J Forest reads an essay on the Moral Education of Children

October 25
Eldress Dorothy & Cora M Newhall go to Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) to meet the above-named party of Teachers

J Forest & Cora proceed to Manchester N.H. (New Hampshire) to canvass for Manifesto

236

[blank page]

237

[blank page]

238

1884

Current Events

November 6
A heavy job completed at Clothiers' Mill" aqueducts adjustable flume from "carding Mill" transported to Weaving Mill"—Other worthy efforts to secure a more liberal supply of water

Sarsaparilla Syrup ordered. Sisters are busy in bottling wrapping and packing the same An Order for Sale Shirts received, from a Boston (Boston, Massachusetts) Firm

11
(Boys' School opens with 8 pupils.—Subsequently 6 youth added)

13
Henrietta and Eda Mansfield return to New York City (New York, New York) to their parents

22
David Foster of West Canterbury (West Canterbury, New York) deceased

(24
W. B. H. A. J. E Myres go to Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) to sell Evergreens for Christmas decoration.)

27.
Thanksgiving Proclamation" issued by President Arthur for the U.S.A. & by Gov. Hale of N.H. (New Hampshire) .

Chh Covenant was read to the family this A.M. Eight young sisters sign the Covenant this eve. Viz. Mabel Liscomb , Sarah Frances Wilson Lizzie C. Fish Margarette Davis Bertha Mansfield, Elsie B York Ada Spettige Mary A. Wilson

E. J. Wilson appointed to take care of children with H. A. Johns & M. H. Caswell Girls' Winter School taught at East House by Jessie Evans .

30
James V. Chase of Boston Mass. (Massachusetts) calls to see once more the home of his childhood & youth His apprentice Frederic Jeffers accompanied him

239

1884

Current Events

December 9
L. A. Shepard & A. J. Crooker go to Manchester (Manchester, New Hampshire) to consult an occulist ( Dr. Carvelle)

16
S Wright to Concord N.H. (New Hampshire) to canvass for a Manifesto obtained 42 subscriptions

9
Rebecca Adams & E. J. Aiken with J. S. Wright go to Franklin (Franklin, New Hampshire) after goods dyed by Walter Aiken

16
E Myres & H. A. Johns go to Concord (Concord, New Hampshire) to sell Evergreen wreathes and other floral decorations for Churches on Christmas

30
George Williams —the tailor—comes to cut boys' suits

General Statistics
Jan. 3
Hydraulic Pump at Clothiers' Mill out in operation from whence a new pipe has been laid to the main reservoir in North Orchard in place of a smaller one

Residents of what has been recently termed The Branch remove to Chh. and N. F. (North Family) this year and thus the buildings and grounds are at present unoccupied. The East House or Infirmary, was bought by a neighbor who has removed the structure piece by piece till the frame work only remains. A monument of early thrift and industry which has been operative in this family during nearly the last 100 yrs is left to mark the spot. in 1884.

240

186x

Various Notes

1882
Southern Floods cause 50,000 people to become homeless.

Then Senate votes—$100,000 aid for sufferers

Mar. 16
Mississippi flood—sufferers number, 20,000 in
Illinois flood—sufferers number, 5000 in
Tennessee flood—sufferers number, 18000
Arkansas flood—sufferers number, 15000
Missouri flood—sufferers number, 15000
Kentucky flood—sufferers number, 5000
Louisiana flood—sufferers number, 8000

Mar. 16
Appalling Earthquake—

Four towns in Costa Rica destroyed. It is one of the smallest republics in Central America—Loss of life estimated in thousands

In collections

Shaker Collection

-Details-

Title: Current Record of Events from 1792 to 1885
Creator
Subject: Shakers, Shakers--New Hampshire--Canterbury (N.H.)
Description: A community journal for Shaker Village, East Canterbury, New Hampshire, 107 pages. Includes digital images of each page, transcription of the text, and TEI encoding of all names and places.
Publisher
Contributor: (Author)
Date
Type: Text, Manuscripts, record book
Format
Identifier: hamLibCom:27078
Source
Language
Relation: Shaker Collection
Coverage: New Hampshire, Canterbury (N.H.)
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